It's a bride thing

A Regal Affair: Bel Air Bay Club Styled Wedding

2011-04-20T11:11:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of putting together a wonderful team of vendors for a South Asian inspired wedding shoot at the Bel Air Bay Club. Every time I visit the Bel Air Bay Club I'm impressed by its simple sophistication and the gorgeous beautiful ocean views. It really is a beautiful venue and the fabulous ladies Carrie, Lisa, and Christine are so wonderful to work with. We went with two seperate looks so make sure you look our for part 2 and 3 of the photos. Here are a few photos from the very talented Jen O'Sullivan of the adorable engaged couple Itesh and Nav.

Did I mention that I almost died when I saw this beautiful bridal gown from Renee Strauss. Her collection and style is to die for. Tara from Makeup Therapy did her magic and transformed Nav into a princess. Tara's works is always flawless she makes every bride look glamorous by enhancing their natural beauty.

The mouth drooling bridal jewelry is from Margaret Rowe's Jewelry collection.

A Regal Affair: Seher and Omar's Mehndi (Henna Party)

2011-04-19T13:22:00.000-07:00

Seher and Omar's Mehndi(henna ceremony) jump started their fabulous wedding weekend. For the mehndi we really wanted to showcase all the beautiful and bold colors you traditionally see in a South Asian Wedding. We custom made this canopy for the newlyweds and filled it with colorful Moroccan furniture.

My favorite part of the Mehndi is the grand entrance, the bride/groom is brought forward by their closest family members. It really represents the union and the merging of the two families to me. The groom enters first and waits for his bride anxiously.

and of course this post would not be complete without a few photos of the beautiful couple

A Regal Affair: Taglyan Cultural Center Wedding

2011-04-15T13:58:00.000-07:00

This post is way overdue. Seher and Omar got married earlier this year at the beautiful Taglyan Cultural Center . I was so honored when Seher hired me to help her plan and design her wedding weekend. I was thriled and really wanted to bring Seher's vision for her wedding come to life. Seher is blessed with an amazing and sweet family and they were very involved and supportive of all the planning. I also got the pleasure of meeting Omar prior to the wedding day as he lived in Florida but he made sure to be in Los Angeles for the cake tasting. When I saw Seher and Omar together I knew that we had to make their wedding as grand and terrific as their love was for each other. Here are some beautiful pics of the wedding that the talented Jen O'Sullivan captured of Seher and Omar's wedding day. Oh and if you didn't notice Seher had a beautiful bridal glow, she really looked like a princess. Enjoy part one of their wedding day.

Seher was just into the small details as I was. We made a fabulous team together.

The delicous and beautiful cake from NancyKays

Oh and did I mention their guests knew how to party!!!

These awesome vendors helped make Seher and Omar's wedding as fabulous as it was.

Event design and coordination: A Regal Affair

Photography: Jen O' Sullivan

Makeup: Makeup Therapy

Flowers: K Bella Design

Venue: Taglyan Cultural Center

DJ: Riamu Entertainment
Cake: http://www.nkconfections.com/

Photography by Chairse & Jen Harris Boudoir Special

2011-03-22T20:09:00.000-07:00

Hello ladies,
You should know by now that one of my favorite groom's gift is boudoir photos. You should also know that two of my favorite ladies will be putting on a special mini session event on April 3rd. That's right you get twice the talent plus professional hair and makeup. A thirty minute session is only $275. If you need more details or would like to book them please contact either Jen or Charise for more info. These ladies are wonderful at creating a classy yet absolutely jaw dropping photos. Booking one of these sessions will also give you the extra motivation to vamp up pre wedding workout routine.

Here are a few of my favorites:

A Regal Affair: So my wife asked me to blog

2011-03-08T14:51:00.000-08:00

So my wife asked me to be her first “guest blogger” of the month. I’m happy to oblige because I really believe in her and her work with A Regal Affair. I see how hard she works for her clients and I am really proud of her. This is the least I can do.

For my topic, I want to discuss the first dance. I am not exactly Fred Astaire so the thought of dancing in front of a couple hundred of our closest friends and family was a little bit nerve racking. My advise for grooms is to relax. First of all, most people are going to be looking at your beautiful bride and not the lucky guy trying to count the steps in his head that’s dancing with her. Second, it’s about the moment not the steps. The best first dances that I have seen are the ones that you can feel the love and connection between the couple.
Before the big day, go to dancing lessons together. Trust me on this one guys. Dancing lessons aren’t as important for getting the steps right, (as I’ve already established, it’s not about the steps, or even you for that matter), its about the closeness that comes with taking a night or two a week and doing something together. Leading up to the wedding can be stressful and tense at times. Dance lessons are a great way to reconnect during the hustle and bustle of the pre-wedding weeks. Plus, it can lead to some practicing for the part of the night you are most looking forward to, if you know what I mean.

Have fun with it. That’s the best advice I can give to any groom-to-be, or for both of you for that matter. Actually, come to think about, this advice is probably best for the blushing brides. Have fun. Relax and enjoy your wedding. That might sound silly, but I think that it is too often the case that people forget to enjoy themselves on their wedding day. After all the effort and planning that goes into the day, it could be easy to get upset if a minor detail isn’t perfect. Remember what’s really important, the love between you and your new spouse. Your wedding day is a celebration of the two of you, the love you share, and the well wishing for the life you intend to create together. Have fun and enjoy. Let your wedding planner deal with the details and the stresses!

Here is an inspirational video!

Jen O'Sullivan and THE MARKETING INSOMNIAC

2011-03-04T10:51:00.000-08:00

One of my all time favorite wedding photographers and mentor Jen O'Sullivan is offering this workshop!

THE MARKETING INSOMNIAC: MARKETING FOR THE NEW ECONOMY

At this one day Boot Camp Workshop you will learn from Jen O'Sullivan everything you need to know about gaining a better understanding of the current economy and how to market your services in the best way. You will learn how to position yourself to make more money and how to make your brand stand out in a crowd of many. Gain more clients, more money, and a more rewarding life!

Sunday, March 13th • 8:00am - 6:00pm in Beverly Hills.

Only $199 for a full day 10 hour workshop.

The workshop is covering things such as Organic SEO, Social Marketing, Traditional Marketing that Works, How to Position Yourself as the Go To Person, with tons more.

Contact Jen at jen@jenosullivan.com to register.

A Regal Affair: Its all about the details!

2011-02-21T14:51:00.000-08:00

My personal wedding planning philosophy is that the more details and thought you put in to your wedding day, the more beautiful and personal it becomes. One tip that I ALWAYS share with my couples is to go all out on their sweetheart table and or bridal party table. Investing a little more in flowers and decorations for those speciality tables definitely pays off. Rent specialty China or buy a set for just the two of you. It can always be used again for special occasions like your anniversary's to come and valentine's day.

Since most brides and couples are involved in most aspects of wedding planning, here at A Regal Affair we offer surprise table escaping. What does that mean you ask? We will put together every single item to make a spectacular sweetheart table all within your budget and design in mind. The best part you won't stress or know about the details until your wedding day. Of course we can just act as your consultants and help you put it together too if the thought of surprises on your wedding day makes you nervous.

Check out this beautiful table we created for Seher & Omar's wedding. Seher loved sparkle, so I used two different Chargers to create the look below. I also chose a different speciality table linen, napkins, votive's and napkin rings. We then topped it off with Swarovski champagne flutes. It turned out spectacular!

Check out Jen O'sullivan Photography

We also incorporated their wedding logo and invitation to pull it all together and we just couldn't pass up on more sparkle

Here is the same concept implemented for a bridal party table

A Regal Affair: String Theory

2011-02-18T08:30:00.000-08:00

A few years back I saw a picture of String Theory's Performance at an event and I knew I had to know more. String Theory is one of a kind and unique music experience. You have to just check them out for yourself.

You know you will be getting a unique sound from these instruments!

A Regal Affair: Preferred Vendor's List

2011-02-17T14:49:00.000-08:00

Here at A Regal Affair one of our new year's resolution was to update and add to our Preferred Vendor's List. Last year I met and worked with some wonderful new wedding professionals. I'm always researching and meeting new event professionals because every brides needs and vision is unique. One of our specialities is doing ethnic and multi-cultural weddings with a modern twist, so when one of my couple's were looking for a DJ that could play a little of everything I found Dj Arsen from DJ International.
I was very impressed with Arsen and so were my couple. His love and knowledge of music is profound. Above all Arsen is very likable person and easy to talk to. To say the least my couple decided to choose Arsen as their DJ for their wedding and I'm confident that they made the right choice! Oh and did I mention he also offer's lighting packages?

A Regal Affair: Location, Location, Location!!!!

2011-02-16T10:58:00.000-08:00

I've been meaning to blog and update you with all that this wedding season will be bringing but we've been extremely swamped with meetings and consultatons and have put the blogging on the back burner for a bit. During this time of the year I do tons of venue search and visits, and I wanted to share these two spaces with you. I have known of SmogShoppe and the Marvimon for some time now but I haven't met the right couple for the space until this year. Both of these stunning venues are unique, funky and fresh and I just adore it so I wanted to share it with you all. Here are just a few teasers of the event space. If you are looking for a unique space I would certainly check these two out.

A Regal Affair: Inspiration

2011-01-06T15:47:00.000-08:00

I often get asked about where I find my inspiration. I find inspiration in everything, every time I'm at any store even the pet store. I'm constantly observing all the elements that surround me. I'm inspired by my friends and loved ones, and in everyday interactions with vendors and venues. I am most inspired by my brides and grooms and their perspective families, their individual style and their traditions. Every couple is unique to me and each family integrates traditions and religion in their own unique way. These are the elements I like to be exposed to and incorporate to their weddings, that is what makes a wedding truly personal and special.

A friend of mine pointed something out to me when I was showing her pics of a wedding that I had just done, she said don't you find it amazing that even though this type of wedding is not at all something you would do for yourself your able to design and plan it so beautifully. Yes its true, I can and I do it so lovingly. If it wasn't for that couple I would have never been inspired to design it. For me there is no type of wedding or style that I like better then warm and personal weddings that represent the couples and their families as one.

on a side note: I found some photos that I shared with one of my brides that's doing a vintage garden wedding. I don't believe in copying but finding images that inspire you and point you toward the right direction is always helpful and welcomed.

A Regal Affair: Vendor Tipping

2010-12-28T12:57:00.000-08:00

Tipping is one of the wedding planning details that tend to get neglected. As a wedding planner I don't usually receive a monetary tip but it is a wonderful and reassuring feeling when you know youre clients are pleased with your service. Here is a general list of vendors and my advice on tipping, however these amounts are not set in stone. Plan according to your budget and the type of service you receive from each. If you are on a tight budget a thank you card and or a very small gift is always appreciated.

Caterer: most add in 18-20% and it is up to you if you want to give a tip above that.

Bartenders - 15% to 20% of the liquor bill.

Hair and Makeup: 15% of the bill

Limo driver: 15-20% of the bill but not more than $150

Music: $30 per band member or 10% of the bill for DJs

Cake: Generally not expected but 10% is welcomed.

Officiant: considered inappropriate however a donatetion of $50 – $200 is welcomed.

Flowers: Generally not tipped but if they do a really great job, 5-10% is welcomed.

Photographers: Normally not tipped, however it is welcomed. You can add $100-300

Wedding Planners: gratuity is not usually required, although, for something better than usual to exceptional a 10-20% tip is not unheard of.)

A Regal Affair & Susie Chhuor 2011 Special

2010-12-01T08:22:00.000-08:00

Check out the special that A Regal Affair and Susie Chhour have put together for our 2011 wedding couples!!!

A Regal Affair: BRIDAL SHOES!!!

2010-10-28T22:55:00.000-07:00

I’m not sure I know too many women who haven’t had a massive crush on at least one pair of heels. There’s just something about a super sexy 5″ heels… so crush worthy.

I know finding a wedding shoe was an extremely difficult process for me. I ended up with three pairs of wedding shoes (no complaints there). I always recommend two pairs, a pretty pair to walk down the aisle with, and a pair with kitten heel for dancing the night away. Needless to say I LOVE shoes so here are a few of my crushes.


I'll start with my favorite! Jimmy Choo

the unforgettable Christian Louboutin

Michelle & David

2010-10-19T21:37:00.000-07:00

Michelle and David are good good friends of mine and it was so much fun to help plan their wedding all within two months. A lot of coordinators actually enjoy being a guest at weddings, being able to take a break and sit back and enjoy. But I would always prefer to help when its a good friend. Michelle is so special to me and it was such an honor to be a part of the planning process. One of the first things that we all agree on was to have Mary Jane to capture the special day. Mary Jane you always blow me away!

David is so neatly woven for Michelle and Michelle is just crazy about David. I've known Michelle since freshman year of high school and I've never seen her so happy and in love.I can not imagine Michelle with anyone else, and have become so fond of David even-though as a result of their marriage my best friend has moved to Spain. When you meet them you just know that they were meant for one another. Their love is true, patient and kind.

David and Michelle, I cannot tell you how much I thank you for including me in the planning process! I love you both so so much. Michelle, my best friend; I miss you and can not wait till we reunite!

Intimate Session/boudoir Special with the talented Kelly Segre!

2010-10-07T14:03:00.000-07:00

Your hubby to be would love this as gift! Kelly has a way of making you feel sexy and comfortable in front of the camera. The 3 days only special books up fast so make sure to emial Kelly.

Here are the details: Dates are limited to October, 24th, 30th, & 31st
All sessions include...
• ½ hour session in our Ventura Studio
•Professional hair and make up
•Female Photographer (Kelly Segré)
•Private Online Viewing / Proofing
•Credit towards cd, prints, or albums

Simple, but Sweet Package* $99 (normal price $225)
•30 minute session with wardrobe changes
•10 retouched images posted online
•$15 credit for products
•*CD can be purchased for $50
Isn’t She Lovely Package $175 (normal price $300)
•30 minute session with three wardrobe changes
•15 retouched images on cd & posted online
•$25 credit for products
Hot Hot Hot Package $250 (normal price $375)
•45 minute session with four wardrobe changes
•30 retouched images on cd & posted online
•5 x 5 coffee table book of images of all edited images
•$50 credit for products

Mix and Match Bridesmaid dresses!

2010-10-06T09:20:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know me I love and find myself constantly drawn to the color purple. I love the way deep purple grabs attention yet it looks so sophisticated and rich. I always get so excited when I meet a couple that will be incorporating this color in their wedding because purple is my best friend we get along so well. It always makes me laugh because whenever I'm describing a color , I find myself talking about fruit. I don't know why but saying eggplant describes my favorite color so much better then Aubergine. I made this inspiration board for a bride that was interested in doing a different dress for each bridesmaid within the Spanish theme. I love The Dessy Collection bridesmaid dresses, you can search by color on their site, they have an amazing variety of shades for each colors and style at very affordable prices.

cutest hair accessories for weddings and special events!

2010-09-30T13:32:00.000-07:00

Untamed Petals is about all things feminine, romantic, and chic. They design sashes, headbands, halos, and fascinators. All adornments are freshly cut and crafted from the highest quality materials. Visit the site and the shop to see more! You can find them on Facebook, too. Click here to stay updated on special offers and new styles.

Petersen's Automotive Museum hosted by Jen O'Sullivan!

2010-09-16T10:54:00.000-07:00

As I was heading home last night after a wonderful charity engagement shootout hosted by the very talented photographer Jen O'Sullivan at the Petersen Automotive Museum I awed and oooh'd as I passed by all the beautiful bridal salons, which of course got me all gitty about my job. I'm always finding and seeking inspiration and love emerging myself in bridal bliss and every aspect of wedding planning. I get to be a part of a couple's biggest decision and their journey to the altar. I always get a little anxious and nervous a few days before any event not because I'm worried about it looking good, but because I want all the elements to flow together as I have planned and imagined. I live to see my clients and their families happy . I design a variety of wedding theme/style, simplistic, glamour, grand, beachy, traditional and ethnic yet my twist on it is always to be classy and beautiful . Yes, it's easier to create a beautiful wedding if you are blessed with an unlimited budget but my talent lies in making any budget work and making the most out of every penny. Most of all I want your wedding day to be about who you are as a couple and an event that your family and friends will cherish forever.

Today I'm grateful for all the couples that have honored me as their wedding designer+coordinator and let me into their lives. I feel blessed and fortunate. Thank YOU!
Now here are some photos of the Peterson Museum, they have tons of options so you really should make a visit. It's a really unique place and offers tons of different areas for photos.

Fiesta Theme birthday Party for my honey :)

2010-08-24T10:41:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about my husband's 30th B-day party and I know exactly what I want but its always nice to have pictures that inspire you. Some of the fun things that are a must for our fiesta is a taco stand, margaritas and home made sangria (I'm famous for my Sangria). I might even post my Sangria recipe on the blog. Check out these photos, when I saw the string lights with the banners I screamed (quietly) that's exactly what I had pictured in my mind.

I think a fiesta/Spanish theme could be absolutely delicious and would work really well for a wedding. It can be done very classy and without the cheese factor or it can be very casual and flirty. Just see the inspiration board I found on once wed. I just love love the cake and the dress is just to die for.

How cute is this for a save the date?

A Regal Affair: Groom's Gifts

2010-08-20T12:41:00.000-07:00

What I love most about pre wedding pictures is the cards/gifts the bride and groom exchange. I think its so sweet and important to share your love and excitement with one another. Its also wonderful to have something to remember it by. I often have brides ask me what they should give to their grooms. Ofcourse watches are an awesome choice, but if you want something more unique and personal check out my suggestions.

Richly hued and elegantly printed with details of San Francisco's landscape.

Perfect cufflinks for the music lover/musician

You can check out Josh Bach for more fun choices!

A Regal Affair: Coture Wedding Garters

2010-08-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

Throwing the wedding garter is a very popular tradition in many weddings even today and many new brides consider them to be an essential wedding accessory to her bridal ensemble. Many brides may choose to use a blue wedding garter to symbolize the “something blue” to bring good luck to her and her groom. However, today you may choose any color that you prefer as well as something that matches your chosen wedding theme and wedding colors. Look at these beautiful coture garters from Florrie Mitton
All items are handmade using exclusively designed trimmings, vintage findings, beautiful crystals,fine laces & silks. Florrie Mitton items are beautiful, fashion led & timeless in their appeal.

Crash The Wedding: A Regal Affair giveaway

2010-07-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday, this week we are giving away tickets to crash the wedding show. All you have to do is send an email to info@aregalaffair.com to be selected, or you can buy tickets for this fabulous event at http://www.CrashTheWedding.com/rsvp This is an event that you don't want to miss! “Crash The Wedding” is the hottest new wedding show to hit the bridal industry. Brides and Grooms are welcome to RSVP to be a part of this historical event. It's a mock wedding. It's a bridal show. It's a charity benefit. It's a live auction. And it's all green!

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

from 6pm - 10pm

at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

At this new take on wedding shows, you will experience an exquisite live mock wedding first hand with the top luxury bridal industry specialists in the area at one of the most beautiful locations in Southern California. You will have the special opportunity to get a behind the scenes look from the specialist's perspective as they disclose their secret tips and tricks to help you plan your perfect wedding. The entire event will culminate with an exciting LIVE auction with 100% of the money raised to go towards our charity, Step Up Women's Network.

Make it a date night for you and your fiance! You will receive a food tasting, wine and cocktails, along with a swag bag filled with tons of gifts and special offers. Tickets are $100 per couple and are subject to availability. Seating is limited.

To RSVP please go to http://www.CrashTheWedding.com/rsvp

A Regal Affair: My new favorite dress designer

2010-07-23T15:56:00.000-07:00

I found my wedding dress within the first three bridal salons that I visited. I thought it was too early but after I had a dream about it, I knew I had to get it. Few months later I made a casual visit to a bridal salon that I had windowshopped at when I was a teenager. I remember looking in and admiring all the majical wedding dresses when I was just a girl. I decided to go in and look for accessories, well I got more than I bargained for. I found a really simple dress, with a low back and with a big discount. My friends urged me to try it on, and I LOVED it. I ended up buying a second dress, a flower girls dress and a veil. They gave me an amazing price as they were closing down their sherman oaks store. Part of me thinks that it was meant to be. This was the only store I had admired as a young girl, now I had taken part of the majic with me right before it closed. I'm so happy that I had two dresses. I had the luxury of wearing a wonderful traditional dress to our ceremony, and changing into a much more comfortable, light and fun dress mid reception. Eventhough I loved both of my dresses so much I can't help but fall in love with others!
This month I'm in love with Christos. I love the texture, yet it looks so soft and romantic.

A Regal Affair: A cake tasting with Nancy Kay's Confections

2010-07-19T08:52:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of accompanying a couple to Nancy Kay's Confections, and I have to admit that it wasn't exactly hard work. Nancy makes amazing cakes but its her style that takes her to the next level. Her cakes are simple, classic, modern and pure perfection. She also provides a variety of flavors, my favorite is the Triple Chocolate Cake. Here is just some of the examples of her creations