Category: Off Beat
Here Comes the Guide brings you expert articles and blog postings about doing something “off-beat” for your California wedding. We love stuff that’s just a bit out of the ordinary and we know you want to be creative, too. This info helps you do that.
The list below gives you the option to read longer, more detailed pieces from our Articles + Ideas section or shorter, topical and timely pieces from our blog. Either way, you’ll get great info from the experts on everything related to California weddings.

Jelly Bellys and M&Ms are not only America’s favorite treats; they also make fun and tasty wedding favors. At PartyBeans.com, you can personalize your presentation with your choice of candy flavors and containers featuring your own photos and text. Container options include a variety of tins, silver cello bags and adorable glass jars (reusable after the wedding) customized with your wedding date, engagement photo or whatever image you choose. What we love most about PartyBeans.com, however, is how easy it is to get exactly what you want. A few clicks of the mouse, and you can check “wedding favors” off of your “To Do” list. Sweet!
How to Make Your Wedding Your Own
Those of us at Here Comes The Guide who are married did not have cookie-cutter weddings: Meredith and her husband had an intimate beach wedding (a.k.a elopement) in Half Moon Bay, Jolene wore a raspberry wedding gown, my husband and I served pizza—old school, unfancy pizza, and Sharon and her husband had their lively reception in a dojo where the black belts in attendance took turns throwing the groom.
Read more…Wedding Registry Idea: Pet Photo Sessions
How about adding some puppy (or kitty) love to your wedding gift registry?
Read more…Trashy Chic
We’ve all heard of toilet paper wedding dresses, but what about dresses made of trash?
Read more…Engagement Rings for Men
When a man decides to commit, he drops a healthy portion of his nest egg on a sparkly engagement ring. But what does he get in return, besides that meaningful “yes” from the love of his life? Nada. Call me crazy, but has anyone else noticed that men get the raw end of the deal here? Not to mention the fact that it seems a little hypocritical that a woman gets “marked” as betrothed while the man’s fingers get to stay bare until the wedding day!
Read more…For Engaged Grrrrls
Most people wouldn’t guess by looking at me now, but back in my high school days, I was a wannabe punk rocker. My daily wardrobe consisted of dyed-black hair, fishnets, plaid miniskirts, and combat boots. (Yes, even during the cold and rainy months.) I also dreamed of marrying Joe Strummer (may he rest in peace). If you sound anything like my alter-ego, then http://www.rockstar-bride.com/” target=”_blank”>Rock Star Bride might be your cup of tea.
Read more…Add a Little Voodoo to Your Wedding…
Even though I’m usually a total foodie, I have a not-so-secret addiction to doughnuts. I have doughnut magnets on my fridge. I call my cat “Alice Donut” as a nickname. I know every doughnut shop within a five mile radius of my apartment.
Read more…Stupid Attendant Gifts
Ah, your bridesmaids…those girls who have been there for you for years, living through all your boy-drama and, lately, all your wedding-planning drama. They’re shelling out hundreds to be in your wedding and you’re supposed to give them a gift at the event to show your thanks. My problem is that so often those “attendant” gifts are just…lame.
Read more…Scouting for Wedding Locations in the Goleta Valley
As the Location Scout for Here Comes The Guide, I’m always on the lookout for really intriguing or unusual places where brides or meeting planners can hold their weddings or events. Going to the free concerts at Rancho La Patera & Stow House seems like a wonderful way to check out an event site. If you make it to any of these concerts at the Ranch or have visited this property, let us know what you think of the place. Should we include them in our next book or on our website?
Read more…


