Wedding Guide 2012

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WEDDINGS PICTURE PERFECT

PASADENA CITY HALL KEEPS ITS PROMISE

LIKE NEW CHERISHED FAMILY HEIRLOOMS MAKE YOUR WEDDING EXTRA SPECIAL

GARDENS OF LOVE UNIQUE FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THAT SPECIAL DAY DO YOURSELF A ‘FAVOR’

DO-IT-YOURSELF FAVORS LEAVE A LASTING IMPRESSION

Where your dreams begin‌..

We invite you to explore the most unique landmark in Southern California where sophistication meets history in an eclectic mix of mystery and beauty. Imagine your perfect day, enjoying our magnificent period rooms and lush gardens.

For a viewing appointment: Events@castlegreen.com | 626-793-0359 WWW.CASTLEGREEN.COM 99 South Raymond Avenue Pasadena, California 91105

Spring Tour April 22 Join us at the Historic Castle Green for a Tour of its gracious grounds, meticulously restored Victorian public rooms, and more than twenty-five private apartments.

Gates open from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for a selfguided Tour that includes the Public Rooms, Ballroom, Bridge and Penthouse.

Tickets are $20 per person at www.castlegreen.com or pay at the door, no reservations necessary.

Groups of 15 or more, please contact Shannon at 626-793-0359 Proceeds from the tour go to the historic restoration and preservation of the history of Castle Green.

99 S. Raymond Ave. Pasadena 2 | ARROYO WEDDINGS

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WEDDINGS

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PICTURE PERFECT

FROM PHOTOS AND PROPOSALS TO WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS, PASADENA CITY HALL KEEPS ITS PROMISE

BY NAIMA FORD

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LIKE NEW

BRIDES USE CHERISHED FAMILY HEIRLOOMS TO MAKE THEIR WEDDINGS EXTRA SPECIAL.

BY NAIMA FORD

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GARDENS OF LOVE

UNIQUE FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS ACCOMMODATE EVERY BRIDE’S VISION OF THAT SPECIAL DAY

BY REBECCA KUZINS

21 DO YOURSELF A ‘FAVOR’ DO-IT-YOURSELF WEDDING FAVORS SAVE TIME AND MONEY BUT STILL LEAVE A LASTING IMPRESSION

BY SARA CARDINE

ABOUT THE COVER: Photo by Sarah K. Chen Photography, www.sarahkchen.com EDITOR Kevin Uhrich PRODUCTION MANAGER Yvonne Guerrero ART DIRECTOR Kent Bancroft JUNIOR DESIGNER Carla Cortez PRODUCTION DESIGNERS Rudy Luthi, Richard Garcia WRITERS Sara Cardine, Naima Ford, Rebecca Kuzins ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Dina Stegon SALES AND MARKETING Brenda Clarke, Leslie Lamm, Heidi Peterson, Jon Wheat OFFICE ASSISTANT Gina Giovacchini VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE Michael Nagami HUMAN RESOURCES Andrea E. Baker BUSINESS MANAGER Angela Wang ACCOUNTING Alysia Chavez, Monica MacCree V. P. OF OPERATIONS David Comden PUBLISHER Jon Guynn

CONTACT US PHONE (626) 584-1500 FAX (626) 795-0149 MAILING ADDRESS 50 S. De Lacey Ave. Suite 200 Pasadena, CA 91105 ©2012 Southland Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.

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PICTURE PERFECT FROM PHOTOS AND PROPOSALS TO WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS, PASADENA CITY HALL KEEPS ITS PROMISE

BY NAIMA FORD PHOTOS BY SARAH K. CHEN PHOTOGRAPHY lthough there is something about Pasadena’s City Hall that puts its visitors in awe, the real magic is in the courtyard.

This is why it is one of the most sought after wedding venues in town. City hall may be a place to get business done, but on the weekends, and even some week nights, it provides the perfect backdrop for love and romance.

"City Hall is a special place, because it was one of the first places we went to before we started dating, when I knew that I liked her,” said Aaron Cho. He and his wife, Judith, wed last September, but for them it all began in the courtyard at city hall — twice.

The building, designed in 1927, was inspired by the architecture of the Italian Renaissance. The courtyard features elegantly shaped footpaths lined by beds of pink roses and large trees. At night, the courtyard is softly lit for pedestrians to enjoy once the hustle and bustle of the day’s work is over. The centerpiece of the courtyard is an elegant stone fountain.

Perhaps this is why, for almost 30 weekends out of the year, the space is used for wedding ceremonies and receptions. On the weekends, it is easy to find couples

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A magical play of shadow and light. A sense of intimacy and romance. Creating the correct mood to enrich your event is as important as the food you serve and the music you play. A delicate blend of subtle illumination that captures your imagination will complete your perfect evening.

FOSTER DENKER

626.799.8656

W W W . A M B I A N C E L I G H T I N G . B I Z

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IT’S HARD FOR A BRIDE TO HAVE REGRETS ONCE SHE WALKS THROUGH THE ROTUNDA INTO THE COURTYARD THAT HAS BEEN RESERVED JUST FOR HER, HER NEW HUSBAND, FRIENDS AND FAMILY

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of all ages strolling along its paths hand in hand.

For couples to have the spot to themselves, however, they must be on top of their game and reserve the space at least nine months in advance, according to Richard Yee, principal engineer for the city of Pasadena. There are also number of permits that must be approved, which is probably the most challenging part of using the space.

Permits must be obtained for police, set-up, noise level, heaters continued on page 9

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and alcohol, so it is important for couples to know exactly what they want before going to the city. Lee says that city employees work hard to make the process navigable for couples, but plans must be ready in advance to ensure the wedding day runs as smoothly as possible.

Couples must know in advance technical details, like their need for power and security or whether there will be a live band performing at the ceremony or reception.

However, there are also fun decisions to make, such as whether the couple wants the fountain in full spray or not. The rates are charged by the hour and dependent upon whether the person is a Pasadena resident or not, but the space must be reserved for a minimum of four hours.

Details like these may take the fun out of the process, but it’s hard for a bride to have regrets once she walks through the rotunda into the courtyard that has been reserved just for her, her new husband, friends and family. It is then that the romance of the space takes hold.

After dating for two years, Cho decided to go back to where it began for them to ask his girlfriend to embark on another journey with him.

"Being proposed to at City Hall was perfect,” said Judith. “I was completely stunned and couldn't have thought of a better place to get engaged.”

The couple considered having their wedding there too, but decided against an outdoor wedding in the California summer heat. Instead they opted to take their wedding pictures there, which is another popular use for the space. The columns and architecture make couples seem as if they have been transported to another country. In fact, photographers of all types are drawn to the sharp lines and flourishes of city hall.

“The setting is historic, romantic, beautiful and significant to our relationship,” said Judith.

“It’s a very romantic place.” ■ ARROYO WEDDINGS | 9

Creating Your Beautiful Memories

Weddings, Birthdays, and all occasions...

811 S. Fair Oaks, South Pasadena

626.799.6799 Closed Sunday & Monday

web.mac.com/cakesensations

Invitations For All Occasions WEDDINGS, SHOWERS, & BIRTHDAYS

Personalized Stationery, Crane Stationery, Cards, Gift Wrap, Unique Gifts, and Photo Albums

We Specialize in Personal Service (626) 289-1062 2060 Huntington Drive #3 San Marino, California 91108 Store Hours: Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

www.dianadees.net

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LIKE NEW BRIDES USE CHERISHED FAMILY HEIRLOOMS TO MAKE THEIR WEDDINGS EXTRA SPECIAL

BY NAIMA FORD

Upcycling Wedding Dresses arjorie Petrone had never heard of upcycling, but as the mother of three daughters, she had to be creative. Married in 1960, she had a beautiful silk wedding dress that she wanted to pass on to her daughters.

“Her wedding dress was just absolutely gorgeous,” said daughter Dina Stegon, who is also the ad manager of the Pasadena Weekly.

When Petrone’s first daughter, Lori, was married in 1991, she decided to create money bags, silk drawstring purses traditionally used at weddings for guests to deposit cards and monetary gifts for newlyweds. After the wedding, the couple can save the bag as a keepsake.

Petrone asked her cousin, a seamstress, to dismantle the dress then use the silk to make the large ivory silk bags and their drawstrings. She added her daughter’s initials using parts of the dress. She had all three made at the same time — holding on to the mother’s dream that all her daughters would eventually be married.

They all were.

“The gift was spectacular!” said Stegon. What Petrone did those many years ago is commonly referred to now as upcycling. “Upcycling” is a term created by Reiner Pilz, owner of the German automation technology company Pilz GmbH, to describe a more constructive way to think of recycling materials for construction. The word is meant to change the way we think about recycling, which is usually destroying something to create something less valuable.

In upcycling, the original item is kept intact or used to create

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A beaded headpiece worn in the early 1900s.

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TOP: The century-old beaded headpiece after it was reset. LEFT: Marjone Petrone’s wedding dress from which the money bags were fashioned. ABOVE: Darla Petrone, with her mother Marjorie, wears her grandmother’s headpiece in her 1993 wedding.

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something that is more valuable or useful.

Upcycling wedding dresses means using old wedding dresses to create new dresses or accessories for another wedding. It is a way for the bride to treasure family heirlooms and add her own style.

There are many ways to upcycle wedding dresses, but most fall into two categories: using wedding dresses to make new items, as the Petrone family did, or using other material to make a whole new dress. For example, brides have found dresses on Ebay or in thrift stores and added to them.

Others have used unconventional materials, such as trash bags, to create the dress of their dreams.

For some inventive people, upcycled wedding dresses have become a business. Etsy.com, a website for selling handmade products, is full of 12 | ARROYO WEDDINGS

upcycled wedding dresses for sale, as well as other upcycled products.

For those who like the idea of a zero impact dress or the unique style it evokes, this is a great option. But for others, upcycling is all about taking cherished family heirlooms and giving them new life.

Beyond wedding dresses, upcycling can be employed to add the personal touches brides are looking for. Examples are rarely touted in wedding industry publications, but they are abundant in the blogosphere. Costconscious and environmentally friendly brides are documenting their own experiences and sharing their tips on the Internet. Blogs like junkshopbride.com and offbeatbride.com offer unconventional examples of how to use what you may already have to make things you want.

Petrone’s second daughter took a cue from her mother for her bridal

headpiece. After seeing a picture of her grandmother’s headpiece from wedding photographs, she fell in love with it. Luckily, the piece was still in the family, so she took it to her seamstress to have the beads reset and the netting attached for a veil.

“This was my sister's way of having our grandmother, who died in 1947 when my mom was only 7 years old, included in her wedding and there with her,” said Stegon.

There are ways to use old containers and potted plants for centerpieces, old headpieces and hats for the bridal veil and thrift store finds for decorations. Even old furniture has been renewed — nearly anything can be upcycled to bring a bride’s vision for her big day to life. ■

Two of the three money bags that were made from Marjone Petrone’s 1960 wedding dress.

Nancy’s Bakery WHATEVER THE OCCASION, LET

MAKE IT MEMORABLE!

“Bring your ideas and we’ll bake them into reality!”

Nancy’s Bakery specializes in wedding cakes and cakes for special occasions.

This famous bakery has been in business for more than 20 years serving most creditable country clubs and prestigious hotels in Pasadena and the Greater Los Angeles Area.

When you are planning your wedding, contact us to set up a cake tasting consultation.

Our friendly and professional staff will assist you in the design of your dream cake.

761 E. Altadena Dr., • Altadena, CA • 626.794.9839 • www.pastriesbynancy.com Send your inquires to pastriesbynancy@yahoo.com ARROYO WEDDINGS | 13

What’s It Worth Today?

We Pay Premium Prices For Your Fine Diamonds & Estate Jewelry

The Maxwell House An historic and elegant setting for your special day.

In the Arroyo Neighborhood of Pasadena Perfect for small or medium sized weddings

Expert Current Market Valuations On Your Valuable Jewelry

YourDiamondBuyer.com DIAMOND NET CORPORATION 550 S. HILL ST. STE. 795 LOS ANGELES CA 90013 PHONE: 310.667.6608 EMAIL: INFO@YOURDIAMONDBUYER.COM 14 | ARROYO WEDDINGS

55 S. Grand Avenue Pasadena, 626-584-7494 www.westernjustice.org/the-maxwell-house

GARDENS OF LOVE

UNIQUE FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS ACCOMMODATE EVERY BRIDE’S VISION OF THAT SPECIAL DAY

BY REBECCA KUZINS

PHOTO: Dmitriy Titov

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ach New Year’s Day, Pasadena is awash in flowers that adorn floats in the Rose Parade. But on any day of the year, Rose City florists can provide a vast quantity and wide variety of wedding flowers.

The area’s best florists do not offer prepackaged wedding arrangements. Instead, they design individualized boutonnieres, bouquets, centerpieces and other floral decorations for their customers. Floral designers typically schedule a consultation with the bride, at which she describes what sort of arrangements she wants at her wedding. Consultants provide advice about the best available flowers and estimate the costs of wedding arrangements, which can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.

For example, Craig and Lisa Cardella, who own Ixora Floral Studio (35 E. Montecito Ave., Sierra Madre; 626/355-0040, ixoraflorist.com), designed floral arrangements for a posh ceremony at the Langham Huntington Hotel.

“It cost $115,000 for the floral decor, including $800 for each centerpiece,” he recalls.

Similarly, Art Bogad, owner of The Flowerman (2450 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena; 626/795-1506, theflowerman.net), and his employees built a bridge over a swimming pool at the home where

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IXORA FLORAL STUDIO

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a wedding was being held, and then hung flower baskets over the bridge.

But most of the wedding arrangements designed by local florists are far less extravagant. “We are realistic about budgets,” says Marina Santos of Jacob Maarse Florists (655 E. Green St., Pasadena; 626/449-0246, jacobmarse.com).

“During the consults, we can change the estimates to fit clients’ budgets.”

Jacob Maarse Florists has been providing wedding arrangements since 1966, keeping up with the many changes in floral fashions.

Right now, Santos says, arrangements featuring rocks, cacti and other succulents are particularly popular: “This is great for the bride who loves gardening. After the wedding, she can plant the cacti in her garden.”

Another current trend is to hide a treasured object in a bridal bouquet.

“One bride had a locket and she wanted us to place her late father’s picture in it,” explains Santos. “We shrunk the picture down, put it in the locket and put the locket in the bouquet. Mother-in-laws will surprise the bride by placing a family heirloom in the bouquet.”

At Ixora, Craig Cardella says that hydrangeas and lilies of the valleys are in demand for wedding arrangements. “Roses are always popular,” he adds. “They come in so many colors that you can accommodate any bride’s vision.”

PHOTO, LEFT: John Boone Photography

JACOB MAARSE FLORISTS

PHOTO, TOP: Rob Greer Photography, www.robgreer.com

IXORA FLORAL STUDIO

Brad Larsen, of Brad Larsen Florals (55 W. Green St., Pasadena; 626/792-6167, bradlarsenflorals.com), notes that peonies, calla lilies and hydrangeas are frequently included in wedding arrangements. “Last summer, we designed a wildflower bouquet for a wedding,” he adds. “It was a very natural arrangement.”

Larsen advises clients ordering wedding flowers to “come fully prepared for their consultation. Go through pictures and magazines to get a good idea of what you want.”

Bogad says wedding clients should bring a paint chip to their consultation “to show us the exact color you want.”

Some prospective brides think they can save money by buying flowers and making their own arrangements. But Bogad says these do-it-yourself efforts are “penny wise and pound foolish.

“I can’t tell you how many times the brides’ moms or best friends

come in the day of the wedding, after there is a problem with the flowers, “he says. “People should deal with a professional florist who can do the job that needs to be done.

That way, there’s less worry for the bride and the groom, who can relax and enjoy their wedding, spending time with friends and relatives.”

Craig advises his clients to select the flowers and types of arrangements they most desire, regardless of current fashion. “Trends come and go. But there are so many colors and varieties [of flowers] that we can create the look you want on any kind of budget. We can get almost anything all year long.”

Santos agrees that wedding couples should “definitely go with what you want to see on your big special day. You want something that will just take your breath away.

You always want to pick flowers and arrangements that you will treasure forever and will be able to view in your wedding photos.” ✺

THE FLOWERMAN ARROYO WEDDINGS | 17

ARROYO WEDDING RESOURCE DIRECTORY

AMBIANCE PARTY LIGHTING Create a very special atmosphere of light for your next party, fund raising event or wedding with the help of Ambiance Party Lighting. Foster Denker uses his craft of 35 years of lighting movies to capture just the right mood so your guests will feel the event's magic! Foster will help you decide whether pin spotting, soft pools of colored light or the glow from beautiful paper lanterns is perfect for you.

Visit the website at www.ambiancelighting.biz or call (626) 799-8656 ARTHUR MURRAY Arthur Murray offers a special, allinclusive wedding program to help you with your first dance. You may also be considering Father/Daughter or Mother/Son dances at your wedding.

Whatever your situation requires, Arthur Murray can plan a program for you that’s just as unique as your wedding. An Arthur Murray Professional will work with you to determine how you want your special dance to look.

Call (626) 793-1030 to schedule your wedding dance consultation.

BEYOND THE OLIVE Your wedding is one of the most memorable days of your life. Why settle for just any wedding favor to give your guests? Add a touch of class to your special day with customized wedding favors that will ensure your event is one to remember. Beyond the Olive will design the perfect label for a bottle of California Extra-Virgin Olive Oil or Balsamic Vinegar.

Give a pair to each guest for a favor that they will love and use.

Beyond the Olive, 10 N. Raymond Ave., Old Pasadena. Visit beyondtheolive.com or call (626) 844-3866.

BRIDAL SHOWPLACE If you’re planning a wedding, a bridal show is the place to start. Bridal Showplace offers everything you need to plan your perfect wedding under one roof.

Sample cake and catered foods, preview live music and entertainment, get pampered with a beauty makeover and spa massage, see the latest fashions for the entire bridal party, learn the latest 18 | ARROYO WEDDINGS

wedding trends, talk to the experts, get free wedding planners and magazines, and win door prizes.

For more, visit bridalshowplace.com.

BRIDAL FAIRE EXTRAORDINAIRE There is no charge to visit our show with providers of flowers, photographs, video, cakes, jewelry, specialty items, DJ’s, bands, ministers, gown shops, photo booths…you name it. Come by and hear one of the coolest wedding bands around, the David Patrone Band. Enter a drawing to win a Bridal Bouquet package from Charmaine’s Florists, or an Amazing Wedding Cake from Jill’s or even an Apple IPAD2. There will be a fashion show

by Cruz’s Bridal, lots of prizes given away by vendors.

Bridal Faire Extraordinaire, The University Club, 175 N Oakland, Pasadena, www.bridalfaireextraordinaire.com. Call David at (661) 255-1244 for more information.

CAKE SENSATIONS Your special day will soon be here, let us help you in making all your dreams come true with a wedding cake designed and created just for you. We welcome you to our world of cakes. As you visit with us I hope that we can answer many of your questions. We have a variety of menu options; and samples in our showroom.

We are here to make your special day unforgettable.

811 Fair Oaks Ave., South Pasadena.

(626) 799-6799 web.mac.com/cakesensations CASTLE GREEN You have just discovered the ideal setting for your wedding, special celebration or film project. We invite you to explore the most unique landmark in Southern California, where sophistication meets history in an eclectic mix of mystery and beauty.

Relax in the Moorish, Turkish and Victorian salons. Dance in the Palm terrace ballroom or take a stroll in the lush, private gardens. Come join us for a memorable occasion.

Call for a private tour 626-793-0359 or visit www.castlegreen.com.

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CHARM CITY CAKES Charm City Cakes is known for outlandish designs, inspired and delicious cakes, yummy flavors, and be it a birthday, baror bat-mitzvah, wedding, or movie premiere, a constant commitment to making clients’ wishes come to fruition.

Now with a new location open on the West Coast serving Southern California and it’s surrounding areas – Charm City Cakes West would love to create an amazing cake for your next event!

Contact us at (323) 642-7234 or email Beverly@charmcitycakes.com CREPE DE VILLE CATERING Crepe de Ville brings the sidewalks of Paris to the streets of L.A. We bring authentic French flavors to you with our unique, open-air mobile kitchen. Let us cater your next wedding, party or special event, or you can come see us on the streets of L.A.!

Please visit our website at www.crepedeville.com or call for more information. (310) 710-8200 DIANA DEE’S STATIONARY AND FINE GIFTS Invitations set the theme for the wedding of your dreams, from the Engagement announcement, Save the Date Bridal Showers, to the Rehearsal Dinner.

Whether ordering fine engraved wedding invitations, choosing from a wide selection of invitations on the shelf or creating a unique design, we can meet your needs while keeping within your budget. In addition, we offer addressing envelopes and printing table and place cards. We carry bridal accessories, guest books, photo albums, picture frames and fine gifts.

2060 Huntington Drive, San Marino.

Call (626) 289-1062, or visit dianadees.net FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF PASADENA First United Methodist Church Pasadena has served the San Gabriel Valley as a community church since 1875. Our emphasis is to create disciples of Jesus and meet the needs of our wide and diverse community. We would be pleased to host your wedding at Pasadena FUMC. You will find both our Chapel and Sanctuary to be appropriate for the occasion. Our professional staff of clergy, musicians, and wedding director does its best to create a sacred and stress-free ceremony.

Please call (626) 796-0157 for more information or visit us at www.fumcpasadena.org.

IL FORNAIO Il Fornaio offers an authentic Italian dining experience. Our culinary creations blend fresh seasonal ingredients with Italian flavors, accompanied by our awardwinning wine list, artisan cocktails, freshly baked bread and olive oil. Our four elegant private dining rooms or charming courtyard patio can seat between 20 to 80 people. With an onsite event coordinator who secures every detail from start to finish, Il Fornaio is the perfect backdrop to your rehearsal dinner, bridal shower or wedding.

770 Tamalpais Dr., Corte Madera, CA 94925 JOHN & COLETTE PHOTOGRAPHY & BEAUTY We are a married, photography and makeup artist team with over 16 years experience in the film and photographic industries. Our careers have taken us around the world working on ad campaigns, documentaries, celebrity editorials and television commercials.

Our approach to photographing weddings together is to shoot the entire day as it naturally unfolds. The result of our collaboration is a beautiful collection of images that tell a great wedding story; rich in detail, fleeting, spontaneous moments and genuine emotion.

Never contrived.

(818) 957-1454 www.johnandcolette.net KING TACO King Taco is a reputable company who has been in business for over 37 years. Our catering department is in the business of creating raving fans by always providing a memorable experience for our clients with our services. Our expert event coordinators will help you plan and customize a wedding package that will be talk of the most important day of your life. Don't stress about one additional thing that day, contact us today and let us show you what a true catering service is really about.

Visit www.kingtacocatering.com for more information.

C AT E R I N G F O R A L L O C C A S I O N S

1929 Huntington Drive South Pasadena, CA 91030

E-mail: mike@simplyelegantcateringinc.com

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Tel: 626 799 6468

T he Romance and Beauty of Y our G arden Wedding in H istoric Pasadena The Fenyes Estate Garden at Pasadena Museum of History offers period elegance in a landmark location to make your perfect day.

Close to freeways and hotels.

Capacity: 200 www.pasadenahistory.org 626.577.1660, ext. 14.

’LETTE Getting married? With 14 distinct flavors, each handmade with only the finest ingredients, ’lette macarons will add a touch of elegance to your Special Day. Our colorful macarons are both delicious and versatile, and with a bit of creativity, you can impress your guests with the extravagance of a whimsical centerpiece or the quiet sophistication of personalized mini-boxes. Let our friendly sales staff help plan the most memorable day of your life.

14 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena.

Call (626)793-5551.

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LIGHTALITY Here at Lightality, we pride ourselves on creating an impression that will last a lifetime. We provide you with the most creative, illuminating and impressive table centerpieces that will be sure to make a statement at your next event. The perfect wedding table centerpiece will not only create an ambiance, but will impress your guests with what they see in front of them. Our consultants will come to you and help you to design, create and product wedding table centerpieces.

1715 Via El Prado Suite 620, Redondo Beach, Ca 90277. 6710 Kester Ave, Suite 261 & 263, Van Nuys, Ca 91405. (800) 737-3606. www.lightality.com MARGARITA’S AND PEPE’S MEXICAN FOOD Need a place for your next party but don’t want to cook or clean? We have the perfect place for you. Our banquet room seats up to 50 people for your next special party. It’s a warm and inviting place where you and your guests can eat superb Mexican food and drinks and have fun. We’ll take care of the cooking, you just sit, relax and eat and drink and of course, have fun!

Margarita’s 155 S. Rosemead Blvd.

Pasadena, CA (626) 449-4193. Pepe’s 2272 Honolulu Ave. Montrose, CA (818) 248-6622. www.margaritasmexicanfood.com THE MAXWELL HOUSE The Maxwell House is the perfect setting for small to medium-sized weddings.

Walking distance from Old Town Pasadena and convenient to the 210, 110 and 134 Freeways. The outside courtyard can accommodate up to 150 seated guests, and the main room can accommodate up to 100 seated guests. Facility rental includes a professional kitchen, basic audiovisual equipment. Some tables and wooden chairs are provided. Alcohol may

be served (some restrictions apply).

55 S. Grand Avenue, Pasadena. 626-5847494 - www.westernjustice.org/themaxwell-house MH MAKE-UP DESIGNS MH Make-Up Designs is a full service event and bridal make-up company located in Pasadena. We provide professional, on-location make-up and beauty services to ensure convenience and accessibility for clients. Whether it is a natural, classic, glamour, or bridal look that you desire, we will have you prepared and feeling confident for your special event or wedding.

Contact us today so that we can create a custom look that is perfect for you. (866) 678-0182. www.mhmakeupdesigns.com OH!U BEAUTY MED SPA All brides and grooms want to shine on their wedding day especially for photos that will be viewed for generations. Oh U Beauty will help you to have healthy, glowing skin for that special day and meet your specific skin and body care needs.

Check our website for specials on Botox, Fillers, Laser Hair Removal, facials & much more. Oh!U Beauty has become one of the leading providers of medical aesthetic treatments in Southern California by staffing some of the industry's elite aesthetic professionals. They’re also the only med-spa in the San Gabriel Valley to offer Coolsculpting, the cool, new nonsurgical way to eliminate stubborn fat and get rid of the excess weight so you look amazing on your big day!

To learn more visit us at www.oubeauty.com or call for a consultation (818) 551-1682.

OLD SPAGHETTI FACTORY The Old Spaghetti Factory serves delicious, complete meals in an unique setting, at an unbeatable price. Our food is prepared fresh daily using only the

Your Home for Special Occasions

Margarita’s Comida Mexicana

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155 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena Ca 91107 (626) 449-4193 | (626) 449-4224 www.margaritasmexicanfood.com

Pepe’s Comida Mexicana

2272 Honolulu St., Montrose CA 91020 (818) 248-6622 | (818) 248-2126 www.pepesmontrose.com

CATERING | BANQUET ROOM (Margaritas Only)

Two Locations to Serve You. Since 1970 20 | ARROYO WEDDINGS

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

finest ingredients. We have an ideal setting for families and groups and offer banquet rooms and catering for your special events. Whatever the occasion, The Old Spaghetti Factory will accommodate your every need. We look forward to serving you soon! www.osf.com 1431 Buena Vista St., Duarte Ca, 91010. 626.358.2115 Fax: (626) 358.4175 PASADENA MUSEUM OF HISTORY The Romance and Beauty of a Garden Wedding in Historic Pasadena. Imagine your garden wedding in the midst of a spectacular two-acre estate that exudes old-world elegance. The Beaux-Arts style 1906 Fenyes Mansion at Pasadena Museum of History provides a stunning backdrop and period ambience for your ceremony and photos. Varied garden settings can accommodate up to 200 guests.

For information, please visit www.pasadenahistory, call (626)5771660, ext 14 or send an email to specialevents@pasadenahistory.org.

PASTRIES BY NANCY Let our professional bakery take care of your wedding cake. We have been towering wedding cakes for more than 21 years, gaining a great reputation for baking fresh and quality wedding cakes with simple and elegant designs. We provide quality services for 13 prestigious country clubs and hotels in Altadena, Pasadena and LA. We offer complimentary cake tasting and consultation with experienced wedding cake professionals seven days a week, and work closely with the bride to create custom designs.

Visit pastriesbynancy.com for ideas.

PHOTOCUBE At Photocube, our photo booths have a unique cube design that is not only aesthetically pleasing but will give your

guests room to play. Our booths are wider than standard photo booths and will allow you to fit 8+ people. In less than a minute, you and your guests will create beautiful, lab-quality prints of all your favorite poses. Cube the moment today!! P.O. Box 251665, Glendale, CA 91225.

(818) 585-7132 info@cubethemoment.com www.cubethemoment.com SANTA ANITA PARK Santa Anita Park holds the winning ticket for a memorable wedding location. From the intimate Directors’ Room to the elegant Chandelier Room to the Paddock Gardens, you’ll enjoy fine cuisine in one of the most historic venues in all of sports and entertainment. Accommodations can be made for groups of 60 to 1,000 at virtually any budget. Whether your event is daytime or night-time, The Great Race Place” is your best bet!

For information contact Elizabeth Booth, Special Events Coordinator at Santa Anita Park (626) 574-6474 ebooth@santaanita.com. For more on Santa Anita go to ww.SantaAnitaLive.com and click on “After Hours.”

SIMPLY ELEGANT CATERING Simply Elegant offers the latest, newest, and innovative fresh ideas for your wedding. Our wedding reception ideas, together with our truly magnificent wedding cakes are just one more reason we are referred to year after year by families, event planners, and corporations alike. Our staff is skilled at planning any type of event you might want – weddings, bar-bat mitzvahs… you name it!

Corporate accounts welcome!

Simply Elegant Catering Inc, 1929 Huntington Drive South Pasadena, (626) 799 6468 www.simplyelegantcateringinc.com

DO YOURSELF A ‘FAVOR’ PHOTO: Courtesy of Beau-coup Favors, Inc., www.beau-coup.com

Do-it-yourself wedding favors save time and money but still leave a lasting impression

BY SARA CARDINE

Custom gift boxes by Beau-coup Favors, Inc.

hen the vows have been exchanged and the reception dishes cleared, newly married couples will want to know their nuptials created a memorable experience for all who attended. That’s why, in the crush of the many details associated with pulling off a dream wedding, selecting guest favors that leave friends and family members with an indelible memory of that day is an important and lasting part of the planning and festivities.

Favors can be fun and fanciful or chic and sophisticated, edible or commemorative, depending on how a couple wants to use them. Ordering them can be a part of the larger

W

services a wedding or event planner may offer, although many brides are finding it a lot of fun, and sometimes even more affordable, to make their own custom favors.

Those who don’t faint straightaway when they hear the words “doit-yourself” will have a lot of options to pick from, but it’s important to keep a few basics in mind.

1. Ask yourself, “What do I like?”

Have any other favors stood out in your mind as being particularly fun, memorable or a perfect capturing of the moment as you remember it? Do you prefer favors that can be consumed or used later, such as candy or edibles, candles or seed continued on page 22

ARROYO WEDDINGS | 21

continued from page 21

packets? Or maybe you prefer small keepsakes, perhaps with an engraving or photo of the happy couple. This should give you a hint of where to start.

2. Consider your theme. Maybe your wedding will be in springtime, when seed packets, personalized ceramic pots or small gardening tools customized with photo stickers or tags might tie into a floral scheme to create a larger seasonal feel. Is it a night wedding? Maybe there are cultural influences from the bride and groom’s backgrounds that might inspire visions of an object or picture that could be incorporated into a favor?

3. Let someone else do the heavy lifting. There are many local and online companies that sell small items in bulk, which will save you the 22 | ARROYO WEDDINGS

Personalized lip balm

trouble of driving to every craft store in town and buying them out of mini canning jars or purple satin ribbon of a certain wale. In addition to the old standards, like Ebay.com, check online at sites like Beau-coup.com, which specialize in discounted items for many occasions, including

weddings. It’s your wedding, take it easy on yourself!

4. Make it personal. Nowadays, you can create customized photos and labels that, when placed on a card, jar, candle or container, turn ordinary objects into keepsakes guests can cherish for a lifetime.

You can go to a copy store with an electronic image or text of a couple, names and the date of the event or make labels on your home printer. Take the hassle (and expense) out of preparing wedding favors, so you can focus on other aspects of the wedding.

5. Don’t stress about it. This is meant to be a time to treasure, so have confidence that that spirit will shine through, no matter what favors you select. Also, try not to be offended if guests leave their favors behind after the ceremony or just elect to not take one home with them. A wedding can be a big, bustling affair among many people who are catching up with others, so a lot can and will get lost in the shuffle.

Do yourself a “favor” and leave the worry behind you when you walk down the aisle. ✺

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Beau-coup Favors, Inc., www.beau-coup.com

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