Archive for November, 2009

The French Quarter coming to the OC

I’ve been commissioned to turn the patio at Lucille’s BBQ into the French Quarter in New Orleans for a wedding reception next fall.

First, I was totally caught off guard by the location.  Who knew Lucille’s did wedding receptions?  Well, up until now, they didn’t.  This will be their first wedding reception and it’s up to me to transform this space according to my bride’s vision.

When I think BBQ, I envision red & white gingham, mason jars, daisies, and lemonade.  Scrap that!  I will be implementing elements of the French Quarter using black wrought iron lanterns, panels, candelabras, and hanging plants reminiscent of the balconies, pewter Fleur de Lis, and the streets signs in lieu of table numbers.  The live blues/jazz band and bananas foster cake will definitely tie everything together.

I have my work cut out for me, but I’m up to the challenge.  I’m also super excited!

Can you really wear a bridesmaid dress again?

Bridesmaids dresses have come a long way, but I’m not convinced that anyone wears these dresses again.  I know mine have been in the back of my closet in garment bags and haven’t seen the light of day since the wedding.  I have yet to find a social gathering where I could wear a floor length, red satin gown with a train.  Maybe if I found a rich millionaire like Richard Gere in Pretty Woman, I could wear it to the opera.

Trash the Dress - Why?

Trash the Dress photo sessions seem to be the latest trend.  At the session, brides will be photographed wearing their wedding gown while trying ruin and destroy the dress by getting it wet, dirty, or even tearing or destroying the dress in an outdoor setting.  I’ve seen sessions with mud, sand, red wine, water, etc.

I guess this is a modern, alternative option to storing and perserving the dress.  I can’t grasp the concept of this trend.  Maybe because I’m a girly girl and I love clothes.  I can’t imagine destroying anything that is beautiful or something that is associated with happy memories.  It also seems like a waste of money.  If you don’t want the dress and will never wear it again, why not sell it or donate it to charity?

On the other hand, I do understand Trashing the Dress after a nasty divorce.

IMG_1198copy.jpg image by markeric

Union Station Wedding

Wedding Colors: Terracota, Orange, Brown
Wedding Location: Union Station Los Angeles, CA
Wedding Flowers: White Hydrangea & Ranunculus
 
Brooke (writer) and Aaron (animator) met while they were both working for Disney.   Keeping with the theme of train travel in old romantic movies, the Fred Harvey Restaurant at Union is decorated in art deco style with vaulted ceilings and a cocktail lounge.

To compliment the retro vibe of old Hollywood, the bride and groom chose to have the majority of their wedding photos taken in black and white.

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Do Not Play list for wedding reception

What’s on your do not play list for your wedding reception?  Hopefully, your DJ has already given you a list of DO NOT PLAY songs or asked you to start one.  Your list should include songs you think are inappropriate, cheddar cheesy, or songs that you absolutely hate.  Here’s a short selection of songs to jump start your own list:

  • Chicken Dance
  • Macarena
  • Baby Got Back
  • Achy Breaky Heart
  • Ice Ice Baby