Category: Wedding Locations

Have you ever had one of those meals when you’re on vacation that you keep thinking about for weeks after you get home? You know, you’re sitting at work and all of a sudden you’re struck by an intense desire to eat at that restaurant again. Like, right NOW. You entertain thoughts of calling in sick, just to go back and have that food one more time?

Did you know that before the 1880s, a couple was required by law to have a morning wedding ceremony? During Victorian times, the U.S. followed English custom with ceremonies between 10am and noon considered most fashionable.

My copy of Elle magazine with Jessica Simpson on the cover came in the mail last week. After flipping through page after page of fashion spreads, I noticed that black is huge and I for one am glad. You will see black minimalism, black lace accents, black biker chic, black vintage detailing.

Since California legalized gay marriage, many same-sex couples—including Ellen Degeneres and Portia de Rossi—have already happily tied the knot. So after all is said and done, what is the difference between a same-sex wedding and a straight one? “Gay weddings don’t seem to be much different than straight events, except for what’s on top of the cake: two girls, two guys or a mix,” quips Mark Belhumeur from the Russian River’s Village Inn.

The wedding team was wonderfully put together by the extraordinarily talented wedding coordinator, Jubilee Lau of Jubilee Lau Events. The lighting effects were customized to the client’s style by John Woods at Enhanced Lighting, who continues to amaze me with his ability to go the extra mile. Music was provided by the fabulous Carl Mindling of Reach Carl. Linens and Tabletop decor were provided by Classic Party Rentals, including the wonderful patterned dinner plates and the Black Chameleon chair with a rhinestone bucket. The Custom Thai silk runner was by yours truly. Cake and catering were provided by the Four Seasons Hotel. Furniture and props were courtesy of Blueprint. Last—and certainly the hit of the party—was the fantastic Candy Bar designed by Laura Isom for Nancy Liu Chin Designs!

I coordinated a wedding at Viansa Winery in May 2008 for my friends Lucy & Ross McClennan that turned out to be a really gorgeous event. I think the photos (by the super-talented Catherine Hall of Catherine Hall Studios) say it all. Click here to view their slideshow and be inspired.

Napa and Sonoma may have made California wine famous way back when, but there are world-class wineries up and down this state’s varied valleys.

On the way to Lake County for my latest family vacation, I took a leisurely detour to Cornerstone Gardens where I visited their wine tasting room. What a welcome way to cool down on an otherwise painfully hot day! I could instantly see why this place is such a draw for weddings: The outside sculpture garden, which is encircled by lush flowers and art, is simply stunning.