NUPTIALS San Diego Wedding e publication | edition 4

E-PUBLICATION | by SanDiegoWedding.com

San Diego

5

glorious & gorgeous FEATURED WEDDINGS Victorian Still Life FASHION EDITORIAL

GOWN SHOPPING Lisa Lippe chats up M Bride REIMAGINING the Bridal Bouquet MEET Susanne Duffy of Crown Weddings La Feminine Rustique A STYLED SHOOT NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

the San Diego

Wedding Party Bridal Show a complete bridal fair like no other!

nup·tial [nuhp-shuhl, -chuhl] adjective 1.

2.

of or pertaining to marriage or the marriage ceremony: the nuptial day; nuptial vows. of, pertaining to, or characteristic of mating : nuptial behavior.

Editor in Chief Pamela Ann Noxon

Stay connected to us…

Guest Fashion Style Editor Justine Murray, Justine M Couture Contributing Editor Event Planning Lisa Lippe, Details Defined Contributing Editor Photography & Lighting Eddie & Kellye Bojorquez, Studio 512 Contributing Editor Event Décor Kathy Wright, Kathy Wright & Co. Trends & Social Style Editor Andrea Kennedy Contributing Editor Savannah Mendoza

Thank you to Stegala Photography http://www.stegela.com/ for our cover photo!

Advertising Sales 760-635-1120 www.SanDiegoWedding.com

Published by Love Your Show, Inc. DBA SanDiegoWedding.com est. 1998 & The Wedding Party Bridal Show est. 2000 www.SanDiegoWeddingParty.com All content is copyright protected NUPTIALS San Diego & SanDiegoWedding.com Copyright © 2013, Love Your Show, Inc. All rights reserved.

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SHOPPING for your gown The ins and outs of a bride’s most important ritual NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Contributing Editor Lisa Lippe

http://mbridesalon.com/ interviews Michelle Martin of M Bride Salon http://www.barnettphoto.com/ with photos by Paul Barnett Photography

on expert gown shopping and fitting.

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

The Wedding Dress is one of the most important choices you’ll make as a Bride (2nd only to saying yes to the man you’ll marry!)

Selecting your perfect gown will actually influence many of your other wedding decisions as you pull together your event’s style. To help you have a great gown shopping experience, Lisa Lippe, NUPTIALS’ talented Contributing Editor, went to one of the most knowledgeable and experienced dress shop owners in San Diego; Michele Martin of M Bride Salon.

Lisa Lippe for NUPTIALS What is the most important thing a bride should consider when preparing herself for choosing her perfect wedding dress?

Michelle - When looking for a dress, buy for your body type and proportion. We ALL have different taste and personalities.

Some brides want full, mermaid, lace, crystals, etc…but buy for your silhouette. That is the most important when choosing a gown.

Lisa Lippe for NUPTIALS Michele, Is making an appointment necessary?

Michelle – Most salons require appointments. An appointment allows us to give you the time and attention you deserve for picking out your wedding gown. When making an appointment, give the consultant as much information as possible so they are better prepared for your appointment.

• Wedding Date • Design Specifications (Designers, Style, Fabrics) • Where you are getting married • And what budget you are trying to respect.

Lisa Lippe for NUPTIALS What should a bride bring with her and who?

Michelle - You can bring a strapless bra and a heel height that you feel comfortable wearing. Keep in mind you will be changing in and out of dresses with the help of the dress attendant. You may also want to wear simple jewelry or none at all. Try not to bring a lot of people with you, ideally one other special person (ie mom, sister, best friend)….

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

…Far too many times have I seen brides with too many people who have too many opinions make the whole shopping experience MISERABLE. Remember this should be fun and YOU should love your gown, nobody else.

Lisa Lippe for NUPTIALS How many stores should the bride look at?

Michelle - If you find the dress, get it. Don’t look for trouble.

Looking for a gown should be an emotional reaction. I am not talking about bursting out into tears reaction (most people don’t do that) but a reaction where you feel pretty, confident, and overall can see yourself getting married in that dress.

Sometimes when one keeps looking they can end up buying a dress not because they love it but they are emotionally drained and tired from the looking process. Also when looking for a dress, buy for your body type and proportion.

We ALL have different taste and personalities. Some want full, mermaid, lace, crystals, etc…but buy for your silhouette. That is the most important when choosing a gown. If you are petite, don’t stand on a box that is foot off the ground. You are not going to be that tall on your wedding day. Stand of the box and fold the hem under. Is the dress making you look all torso and no legs? Just be conscious of these things when you try on dresses.

Trunk Shows are a great opportunity to look at other dresses from the designer that you like. If there is a dress that you want to see, don’t always assume it will be there for the trunk show. Call us 2 weeks ahead of the show and let us know which dress you like and we will try to have it when you come into the trunk show. Also during a trunk show, there can be different incentives. This depends on the designer. Not all designers offer the same thing so check ahead of time so you know for sure….

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

‌Sample Sales are a great opportunity to buy a gown that is designer with great quality fabrics at a discounted price. With a sample, the gowns are usually a size 8 or 10 which could be a 68 depending on the designer.

Sample dresses are sold as is. The client is responsible for having the dress clean and altered.

Do not clean a dress before alterations. Sometimes you may not have to have it cleaned after alterations. Usually most dresses can be altered down 1-3 sizes depending on the dress.

Sometimes the dresses can be made larger by a size depending if it has seam allowance. Again this depends on each dress and each designer. In the end, no one knows you bought a sample but they do know good fabric and design.

Lisa Lippe for NUPTIALS What should the brides know about alterations?

Michelle - Set up your fitting 4 weeks before the wedding. If you are still losing weight, check with the seamstress to see if she can do the dress in a shorter amount of time so the seamstress doesn’t have to keep altering the gown and charging for each time she has to take it in.

At the time of your fitting, maintain your weight. Especially the week before. This is the time that brides can stress and not eat the way they are supposed to. If you have a strapless gown and the bride loses any weight in that week they could be tugging at the gown or it could be falling down. 3 to 5 pounds can make a huge difference. Alterations cost are additional. Most places recommend that you use their seamstress but in no way are you obligated to do so.

If you want to change your shoes for dancing later, find the same heel height in a wedge. The length of the dress will change and you will be stepping on the dress all night unless you pick up the front of the gown when you walk‌.

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

…Pressing is usually an additional charge. It depends on the gown. Sometimes we can steam the dress if it is simple but if it is bigger or more complicated fabric, we have to outsource it to Margaret’s and they will press and deliver the gown. This can be anywhere from $150-$375 Lisa Lippe for NUPTIALS What about travelling with your wedding dress if your wedding is in a different town then where you purchased it?

Michelle - If you are driving to your destination, Make sure that the back seat is clear and lay your gown flat across and hang the body of the dress up on the hook. Make sure you take it out of the car right away and hang it on a high door.

Be sure to take the plastic off and let it breathe. Plastic causes static cling.

If you are flying, check with your airlines if they will let you hang it up. Most airlines don’t have the room so I suggest folding up the gown and putting it in an overhead suitcase. I have been able to make some of the biggest dresses fit in an overnight. It is all in getting the air out of the gown. It won’t damage the gown but you will have to have it steamed or pressed when you get to your destination. Call ahead with your hotel or venue and make these arrangements.

Remember checked luggage can be lost luggage.

Lisa Lippe for NUPTIALS What about after the wedding?

Michelle - If you have spilled any wine, champagne, or cocktail on your gown, you must take it to the cleaners as soon as possible. The sugar in alcohol can do permanent damage to your dress if not taken out right away. Do not put in a closet and forget about it.

Most people clean and preserve their gown afterwards. If you don’t want to keep your gown, still get it cleaned right away and then donate it to a good cause like Brides for Breast Cancer. You can get a 100% tax write off instead of make a quarter of your money back if you try to resell it.

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

when it’s right, it’s right…

Chiqui & Nkeakam at The Hyatt Regency La Jolla www.Lajolla.hyatt.com www.truephotographyweddings.com Photography

by True Photography Weddings

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

When it’s right… it’s right…

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NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

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NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

www.Truephotographyweddings.com Photography Studio: True Photography Ceremonywww.sandiego.edu/immaculata/ Venue: The Immaculata Reception Venue: Hyattwww.Lajolla.hyatt.com Regency La Jolla www.sdweddingplanner.com Event Planner: Melissa Barrad www.kathywrightandco.com Décor / Production Florist: Kathy Wright & Co. Musicians www.capricestrings.com /Ceremony: Caprice Catering: Veronica’s Kitchen Cake / www.grovepastryshop.com Desserts: Grove Pastry Invitations, Details:www.sweet-paper.com Sweet Paper and http://www.invitationfactory.com/index.php Invitation Factory

Videography:www.Chrisangelesfilms.com Chris Angeles Films www.holytrinityelcajon.org Officiant: Father Nelson www.djtos.com DJ: DJ Tos Hair / Makeup: Hair and Make upwww.Brooke-hill.com

By Brooke Hill NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Photography

by Studio 512 http://www.studio512.com/ NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Reimagining the Bouquet http://www.embellishmint.com/

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NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

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NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

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NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Seashells by the seashore

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NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

An Enchanting Affair Wynnhttp://wynnaustinevents.com/ Austin Fine Weddings & Events http://joielala.com/ Joielala Photographie NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

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http://joielala.com www.wynnaustinevents.com http://www.missionsandiego.com/ http://www.clubcmr.com/ www.ryansouthwell.com www.wynnaustincollection.com www.tiernantunes.com www.chiavarichairrentals.com http://jgrace.com/ www.moncherirestaurant.com http://www.karentran.com/ www.dessertier.com www.mbridesalon.com www.gordonbanh.com

http://www.sandiegoprestige.com/

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the secret to choosing the right PHOTOGRAPHER for your wedding Weddings are rather tricky things.

It's once in your lifetime and you want it to be perfect.

And let’s be honest, how many of us have a designated photographer on retainer for all our major life events?

You could start asking friends or go online, but these days it can be pretty challenging to tell the experts from the novices from just a website.

So how do you find someone who can truly take care of you?

The expertshttp://www.studio512.com/ at offer you the first steps.

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Make a point to meet in person with the photographers you're seriously considering. In order to take great photos, you need to find a photographer that you trust and whose personality and style mesh well with yours.

Photography is a very personal service, and your chosen photographers will be with you and your wedding party most of the day.

They should make you comfortable and safe to be totally yourself.

If you get along well during your consultation, it's sign of a good fit.

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Consider a few photographers.

Even if you have your heart set on the “Photographer of Your Dreams”, they may be out of your price range or booked for your day.

It's always good to have a handful of possibilities.

Kiss a few frogs!

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Know what you're looking for.

If you have a certain style you must have for your wedding images, it makes sense to focus in on those kinds of photographers.

At the same time, try to think about what you'll want in your album or hanging on your wall for years to come.

Trendy is fun but timeless is usually better as it holds up for generations.

You can tear out the old countertops to update your kitchen but you can't exactly redo your wedding photos.

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Take the time to see a photographer's work, and get to know them, so you can be sure in advance that you‘ll be working with an experienced pro.

For example, ask to see numerous full weddings, and ask for examples of challenging scenarios. Anyone can choose a few great pics to post on their blog or website, but ask to see the end results. Yes, all photographers need to start somewhere, but they shouldn’t be in charge until they’re competent to cover your event correctly.

So much of what a photographer does happens after the actual shoot.

Make sure your prospective photographer understands editing and offers products you have your heart set on and that you like what you see.

Poke around a bit and ask questions that will help you understand what kind of service you're actually going to get: will your photographer be laid back and hands off, just showing up with a camera or will they be full service, holding your hand and carefully guiding you through the process and helping you work NUPTIALS out the by details? www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Give yourself enough time to plan.

Most wedding coordinators suggest booking your photographers at least 8 months in advance.

We recommend 10-14 months especially if you have hopes of using the images for Save the Dates etc.

Many photographers find that popular wedding dates (especially Saturdays and three-day weekends) fill up fast, so time is on your side if you sign a contract well before your date.

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Hire a photographer for your engagement portraits.

Engagement sessions are a great icebreaker, and will show you how you work together. Engagement sessions are also an important rehearsal for the most photographed day of your lives together!

Grooms, especially, tend to find the engagement session a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera.

And then when your wedding day comes, you'll feel like an old friend who knows showed up with a camera.

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Some future brides actually find their photographers at weddings they've attended.

Seeing a photographer working in their element is like witnessing a walking interview. You can see how they handled the details and challenges of the day, how they communicated with their bridal party and family members, and how the pictures turned out in the end.

Although be sure not to interrupt the photographer at work, they have a big job to do and their first responsibility is to your friend’s wedding at hand.

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

One time-tested way to find a photographer who fits your style is word of mouth.

If your matron of honor was recently married, she can give you great advice (or steer you away from someone who didn't work out so well).

Very importantly, ask people who share some of your preferences and personality traits.

If you're Type A, ask your most organized and driven coworker for her recommendations.

If you're more laid back, ask your most relaxed friend what she thought of her wedding vendors.

And of course, be sure to check out their wedding photos [and references!] to see if you like them.

It's a great place to start.

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

24 Questions to ask prospective photographers: 1. Are they full-time photographers?

2. Are they insured (at least $1 million liability)?

3. Will they hold your hand through each step of the process?

4. Do they have professional equipment?

5. Do they have back-up gear (lenses, bodies, flashes, etc.)

6. Will they put together a custom shooting schedule of your day?

7. Do they have a redundant off-site backup system for your files?

8. Will they show you several ‘real’ weddings in addition to portfolio pieces?

9. Are they able to produce quality photographs at night with nice lighting?

10. Are they service-oriented (not the kind that shoot, burn, and disappear)?

11. Do they have an assistant or second photographer with them?

12. Do they perform custom image processing on printed images?

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Do they have experience shooting weddings (or your type of event)?

Will they work with you and your vendors to make a shooting schedule?

Do they understand how to use light in ideal and difficult conditions?

Do they have examples of their images in many kinds of light?

Are they flexible with your unique customs, ideas, and requirements?

Will they go out of their way to make you comfortable on your day?

Will your guests be able to see your images online?

Are they willing to take unlimited photos during your event?

Do they have quality books, prints and products?

Do they work efficiently and professionally?

Are the color and exposure consistent /pleasing throughout their albums?

Will they treat you and your guests with respect?

Most – if not all – should be answered with ‘yes’. Notice how none of these points bring style into question. That part’s up to you!

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Gentlemen’s & Ladies Accessories http://www.etsy.com/shop/ArenLace?ref=si_shop

by Aren Lace

Ostrich clutch

by Wynn Austin Collections http://www.wynnaustincollection.com/index.php/bags.html

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Clip on shoe bows www.shopheylady.com by Hey Lady

Something blue … shoes! www.shopheylady.com

by Hey Lady

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Classic Blooms photo shoot

http://classicbloomsstudio.com http://www.stegela.com/

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NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

http://www.stegela.com

http://www.classicbloomsstudio.com/ https://www.facebook.com/SerendipityGardenEstate http://findyourdelight.com/ cutiepopscakery.com https://www.facebook.com/ThomasLewisWeddings

http://www.classicbloomsstudio.com/

http://twinkleandtoast.com. http://www.farmtablesandmore.com http://www.dahliabridalsd.com www.ElenaTBeauty.com KJS Salon Studio

http://www.vallentynephotography.com/ Bre & Anson captured

by Vallentyne Photography http://www.crownweddings.com/ Event Planning by Susanne Duffy of Crown Weddings

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NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

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NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

www.vallentynephotography.com Photography: Heather Vallentyne Ceremony & Reception Venue: Private home www.crownweddings.com Event Planner: Susanne Duffy /Crown Weddings www.adorations.com Florist: Lavonne ADORATIONS www.conceptseventdesign.com DĂŠcor & Rentals: Concepts Party Rentals DĂŠcor / Linens: La Tavola Linens www.latavolalinens.com Musicians: Michael Gonzales www.gonzomusician.com DJ & www.mobilemusicplus.com Lighting: Spencer Bezy www.festivitiescatering.com Catering: Festivities Catering www.konacakes.com Cake / Desserts: Kona Bakery Invitations / Favors: Brightly Designed www.brightlydesigned.com Videography: Blue Pearl Weddings http://www.bluepearlweddings.com/ Glassware: Abbey Party Rentals www.abbeypartyrentals.com Hair / Makeup: The LOFT Encinitas http://thelofthairdesign.com/

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS showcases this season’s obsession with all things Victorian to celebrate a time when romance was strengthened by distance, fed by time and fueled by the art of poetry and love letters. http://www.dilanattas.com/ Shot by Di Lanatta Photography at San Diego’s authentic Victorian http://www.hortongrand.com/ landmark, The Horton Grand Hotel.

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

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NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

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NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Meet world-class event designer & planner

Susanne Duffy of Crown Weddings

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A physiotherapist although I ended up studying Hotel Management!

What was your first job ever?

Working in a candy store.

Do you have a hero?

My mother is my hero she has a fantastic sense of humor and always set the table beautifully and made food look like a work of art. She had parties and ladies over for tea all the time when I was a child I was always making the tea and picking flowers for the tray and artfully placing biscuits on pretty plates.

What is your specialty?

Classic, Elegant and beautifully designed weddings.

What do you like most about doing weddings?

Quite honestly meeting wonderful couples and spending time getting to know them and working with them to create a wedding that is a complete reflection of who they are as a couple.

If you are married what was your wedding like?

Fabulous… I actually got married (again) 4 years ago and planned the wedding myself . It was so easy I focused on my two boys and included them in the ceremony my elder son Aaron walked me down the aisle and my younger son who was the ringbearer danced up and down the aisle it was heartwarming. We wrote our own vows which were funny and sentimental and we exchanged rings with the boys and did a sand ceremony together as my sons godmother sang a song. For the design we did a white winter wedding to reflect Chris’s love of the mountains and snow and then a vibrant jeweled tone reception with all the colors that I love. (luckily Purple is his favorite color too) We also threw a big after party and invited more friends to party with us.. it was an amazing day.

What is your most memorable [professional] wedding moment?

A father who was very sick but he managed to walk his daughter down the aisle and to do a short but beautiful father /daughter dance. He passed away a few weeks later.

The best moments for me are the ones that show real emotion and love- times when both living and people who have passed are honored, fathers that talk lovingly about their daughters in their toasts. We are truly blessed to attend these events and Weddings are so wonderful because that is what they are all about and so there have been countless times over the years where things have happened and I am the first one to pull a Kleenex out of my purse.

What is the place in the world [where you haven’t been] that you would want to visit the most? And why?

I really want to walk the great wall of China with my son Aaron. It’s the only man made thing you can see from Space and I find that amazing! I am also very interested in Chinese History.

What’s your best advice to couple regarding your specific field?

Be true to who you are .. you don’t have to follow wedding trends think about the things you love individually and together and incorporate them into your special day.

Is there any specific music/artist/song that gets your creative juices flowing?

Not sure about creative juices but Abba’s “Dancing Queen” gets me dancing around the kitchen LOL! What’s your favorite part of a wedding?

I have a couple -The bride and grooms faces when they see each other The joy as they walk back down the aisle And watching everyone dance like crazy on the dance floor during the evening!

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

What should brides/grooms/curious seekers know about you?

That I’m a mother of two wonderful boys with completely different personalities one 6 foot tall and a teddy bear and one 5 feet and feisty. I also have a fabulous, supportive husband who is has introduced me to skiing down crazy mountains, Ziplining, biking and Ice hockey 7 years ago and now we are all avid fans and have season tickets. Go Ducks!

Pleased to meet you!

That I used to Irish Dance competitively in England!

That I currently work closely with an incredible charity set up by one man: http://www.100friends.org and I have helped him build the first “Crown” School in Ethiopia and 2 libraries in Tibet in the past few years. He is a huge inspiration in kindness and selflessness and a wonderful man.

That I have an amazing group of girlfriends who provide inspiration and love and laughter in my life.

How do you come up with the inspiration for your work? Designs? Ideas?

The clients honestly inspire me.; for example - finding out that the bride loves to paint and incorporating water colors into the invitations and paper goods Or that they collect birds or angels and making them a whimsical feature of the wedding.

I also use Pinterest a lot its so fabulous for ideas and I read Elle Décor and Architectural Digest , Better Homes and Gardens… that type of thing they always show beautiful spaces with gorgeous color combinations or a room with one fabulous wow factor these are things that we can incorporate into weddings.

What makes your business wonderful and stand out from the rest?

Gosh that’s a hard question there are so many wonderful planners in San Diego I think my accent makes me stand out the most LOL I also have Irish Parents so I have a great sense of humor and It’s important to have some laughs along the way it helps ease any stress associated with the planning.

I’m a good listener and I am very detailed which are important attributes as a wedding planner.

I love matching brides and grooms with the perfect vendor and see them get even more excited about their wedding.

I also have a lot of experience my background and degree are in Hotel Management and so prior to stating Crown Weddings nearly 15 years ago I worked in some fabulous five star hotels in London that hosted parties for the Music and Film industry and Royalty which were incredible to be part of.

What advice do you have for brides to be?

Hire a wedding planner then Breathe…… we will make sure we get everything done in the meantime the energy and attitude that you take throughout the process and on the day should be a joyful positive one. There maybe one or two bumps along the way as everyone has an opinion but stay true to who you are and what you really want and you will be able to plan a memorable heartwarming celebration.

What do you do in your ‘off time’ that might surprise people about you?

I yell very loudly at Ducks Ice hockey games. ! (think pretty woman at the race track !)

I LOVE to Zipline and go on huge rollercoasters and I wish I had more time to paint again.

What would you choose as your epitaph?

Susanne was a good mother & wife and a kind and generous soul !

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

visit website>

http://www.crownweddings.com/

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Love, Actually Two Americans find love all the way in London Event Design and Planning by

Susanne Duffyhttp://www.crownweddings.com/ of Crown Weddings

Photography by

http://www.pamscottphotography.com Pam Scott Photography

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

www.pamscottphotography.com Photography: Pam Scott www.hoteldelcoronado.com Ceremony & Reception Venue: Hotel del Coronado www.crownweddings.com Event Planner: Susanne Duffy http://www.mysplendidsentiments.com/ Florist: Splendid Sentiments www.gonzomusician.com Musicians: Michael Gonzales www.mobilemusicplus.com DJ: Spencer Bezy www.hoteldelcoronado.com Catering: Hotel del Coronado Cake /http://www.lareinedesmacarons.com/home.html Desserts: Macarons de la reine www.jgrace.com Paper Goods: Jennifer Dailard http://quixoticweddings.com/ Videography: Scott and Jenny Hoops http://aprlinens.com/ www.classicpartyrentals.com DĂŠcor: & Rentals: APR Fine Linens & Classic Party rentals www.groomergirl.com Hair: Leah www.flirtmakeup.net Makeup: Ann

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

A walk in the woods { d ow n t h e a i s l e }

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

A beautiful Maine wedding enchants with nature, family and good friends

Images by https://www.truephotographyweddings.com/ Tr u e P h o t o g r a p h y We d d i n g s NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

Barn at Flanagan Farms http://www.barnatflanaganfarm.com www.truephotographyweddings.com True Photography http://www.afamilyaffairmaine.com A Family Affair, Paula Cano

Emily Carter Floral Designs http://emilycarterflowers.com http://wellfleetmusic.com Wellfleet http://www.djmarksawyer.com DJ Mark Sawyer

The Chi Chi Chef http://chichichef.com http://gusandruby.com Gus and Ruby Letterpress http://partyshopmaine.com One Stop Event Rentals

NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winter 2014

xo NUPTIALS NUPTIALS by www.SanDiegoWedding.com Winterby 2014SanDiegoWedding.com