Event Ideas

May 6

May’s Most Anticipated Festivals & Events

May 6th, 2013 - By Josh Lew

May is an exciting month.

Kids are counting down the days until summer vacation, and everyone is looking for an excuse to get outdoors so that they can enjoy the pleasant late-spring weather.

Festivals, holidays and special events make it possible to fill up your May calendar with excitement.

From traditional cultural fests to national holidays to concerts and even one of the world’s most famous non-human sporting events, there is plenty to look forward to during the 5th month of the year.

And, most of these events occur outdoors, so you can enjoy the amazing springtime weather no matter what you choose to do during the month of May.

Here are May’s best holidays, festivals and events…

Memorial Day (Nationwide)

image via cwwycoff1

Held on the last Monday in May, this holiday marks the start of summertime for many people in the US.

Parades and events are held across the country to honor the fallen members of America’s military.

Whether they attend a parade or not, most people go outdoors on Memorial Day.

Depending on where they are, people spend the day visiting the beach, hiking in a state or national park, or simply enjoying a quiet picnic in a natural area.

Cannes Film Festival

The Cannes Film Festival is an international celebration of film held each year in Cannes, France.

Big names and emerging artists flock to Cannes to see quality films from around the world.

The glamor of the red carpet is in full force, with the cinema’s biggest names usually in attendance.

Being named an Official Selection can bring films and filmmakers into the international spotlight and make their careers.

The Indianapolis 500

The Indy 500, one of motor racing’s most famous events, takes place at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway each Memorial Day Weekend.

The 500 is one of racing’s most prestigious prizes.

Since the race began in 1911, audiences have enjoyed the intricacies of racing from the infield parking area, the expansive grandstands or through their television sets.

There are a number of concerts, festivals and special events that are held on race weekend in Indianapolis each year.

Cinco de Mayo

image via PaulSteinJC

Cinco de Mayo is literally translated “the 5^th of May.”

In the United States, Cinco de Mayo is one of the largest Mexican-American cultural celebrations of the year.

Festivals are held in communities throughout the Unites States.

These events offer locals a chance to gather and celebrate their Mexican heritage together.

It also offers those from other cultural backgrounds a chance to participate in Mexican-American cultural events, parades, traditional dancing and music, and, of course, to feast on well-loved Mexican dishes.

Kentucky Derby

image via Brood_wich

The Kentucky Derby is one of the three high-profile events that make up the coveted Triple Crown of horse racing.

Held on the first Saturday of May, guests to the Derby see the best horses in the world vie for the crown.

Elaborate hats and mint juleps abound.

Of course, serious handicappers are here too, placing bets and hoping to win big.

Whether watching from the “raucous” infield or sit in luxury in “Millionaires’ Row,” all race-goers are sure to be on the edge of their seats.

New Orleans Jazz Fest

image via L. Richard Martin Jr.

The New Orleans Jazz Festival is a unique celebration of the music and culture of New Orleans and Louisiana.

Audiences gather each May at the Fair Grounds Race Course, not far from the French quarter, to experience music, food and cultural activities native to New Orleans and Louisiana.

Musicians ranging from the most famous (Aretha Franklin) to the emerging artists of today’s jazz scene perform outdoors for large audiences.

If you want a taste of New Orleans colorful culture, this is the event for you.

What are you anticipating this May?

Let us know what’s on your calendar in the comments section below…

About the Author

Josh is a freelance writer whose articles about travel and culture have appeared on Mother Nature Network, CNN.com, and, of course, the Estate Weddings and Events blog. He has traveled all around the US and East Asia, but is just as happy at home with a cup of coffee (or a quality microbrew) and reruns of Mad Men or 30 Rock. You can connect with him via LinkedIn or Google+.

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Apr 10

April’s Most Noteworthy Events & Festivals

April 10th, 2013 - By Josh Lew

Spring has truly begun in April.

In the world of sports, traditional summertime games like baseball, golf and tennis are moving their seasons into full swing in April.

The weather is pleasant enough throughout the country (not too hot and not too cold) that outdoor festivals and concert series are held.

Around the world, some of the most fun and exciting traditional holidays are on the calendar.

In short, in April, it is time to get outside and enjoy some truly memorable festivals and events.

Here are the most anticipated events of April….

Tribeca Film Festival

image via special operations

This film festival, established by Robert De Niro, brings almost 3 million people to the Tribeca area of Lower Manhattan each year.

Independent feature films, documentaries and short films by emerging artists are celebrated through screenings, awards, workshops and much more.

Visitors can get tickets to the screenings or simply hang out and soak in the vibe in what has become one of New York City’s hippest neighborhoods.

Famous Hollywood stars and up-and-coming actors and directors consider this one of the most important events of the festival calendar.

Major League Baseball Opening Day

April Sporting Events: Baseball Season is back

image via Dave Sizer

Major league baseball is one of the most noticeable signs of Spring.

When teams take to the field in early April, even non-sports fans take notice.

For many, the home opener is as anticipated as the World Series.

Each major league city has hosted at least one series by mid-April, so no matter where you are, you can mark the change of seasons by taking in a game featuring the “Boys of Summer.”

The Masters

image via Shan213

Augusta, Georgia is home to the most prestigious golf tournament in the world.

The Masters, held in mid-April, draws the world’s best golfers.

Even non-golf fans watch the drama unfold on television or, if they are lucky enough to get tickets, in person.

The rural Georgia scenery, for which the Augusta National course is famous, is as impressive as the skills of the pro golfers who are competing for the coveted Green Jacket.

Thai New Year (Songkran)

image via fabulousfabs

For people who want to travel abroad in April, Songkran is one of the most interesting (and fun) dates on the calendar.

This Thai New Year celebration has many traditional elements, which can best be seen by heading to smaller towns in the countryside.

Temples in Bangkok can also be interesting places to check out the traditional side of this fest.

For most people, though, Songkran is best remembered as a giant water fight.

A spin on tradition (where water was used to symbolize cleansing the old year away), people now throw water in the streets at anyone and everyone.

Some tourists come specifically to experience the wet and wild fun (while others, who wish to remain dry during their travels, stay away).

Coachella Music Festival

image via Jason Persse

Coachella is one of the most anticipated festivals in the US.

It is held in the Southern California desert’s Coachella Valley on two consecutive April weekends.

Many festival pass-holders choose to camp on-site for one or both weekends (tickets are sold separately for each weekend).

Major music names like the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Blur are festival regulars, and there are over 150 acts in total each year.

Coachella is not too far from Palm Springs, so festival-goers can spend a day or two in the popular desert getaway destination before or after the music.

What are you looking forward to this month?

Let us know what your most-anticipated events are on the April calendar in the comments section below.

About the Author

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Apr 2

Why Should I Use My Venue’s In-House Catering?

April 2nd, 2013 - By Cynthia Souza

So you have found a few lovely venues that you and your fiance are considering for your wedding.

Or you are a professional planner and your client is eager to rent a private estate for their upcoming event.

In either circumstance, there may be a type of cuisine or a specific caterer that you have a previous relationship with and you simply have to have that food at your event.

However the venue comes with their very own chef and catering staff.

Should you insist on bringing in your own catering?

What do you do?

You should probably go with your venue’s caterer & here is why…

Home Court Advantage

You should probably go with the in-house caterer simply because they have done multiple events on location, working with the same people and they know the idiosyncrasies of the event space.

They know where to go and more importantly who to ask when they need something.

They know exactly how many staff members they need to pass hors d’oevres and how to choreograph where each server moves in order for everyone to get a bite of the appetizers you painstakingly chose for cocktail hour.

They know how long the salad course is going to take and when to start plating and serving your different courses to various tables spread throughout the reception area.

This will ensure that your entire event goes smoothly.

If food is coming out at odd times, everything is off, from speeches to dancing.

At one of our most popular venue’s, the Bali Gardens Estate, there are actually several different event spaces that can be utilized for just one event.

Recently we managed a lavish Indian wedding where the ceremony was on the main lawn while the cocktail hour was poolside at the back of the property.

Because our in-house caterer was familiar with the Bali Gardens Estate, they knew that they would have to set up three different food preparation stations.

They had a main one where most of the heavy duty cooking was done, complete with extra lighting for evening hours, a portable sink, oven and of course drop clothes to protect the pavement.

Poolside, hidden from the guests, they created a plating and grilling station with portable grill and a protective covering.

For dinner service they actually built a lighted tent area close to where the guests were so the food could come out hot and fresh(very important).

They also knew where all of the outlets were so they did not need to include a costly and noisy generator that a caterer who was unfamiliar with the property might add on to your total.

The experience your venue’s caterer brings to the table is not limited to their depth of knowledge about the venue but their knowledge is also probably varied.

Since there have been a variety of events at the venue, surely somewhere in that variety lies something that you and your guests’ palate would delight in.

If your particular ethnic dish is not on the menu, it may just be because that item does not have a wide appeal.

Chances are, if you ask, there may be something the chef can do to replicate the type of cuisine you wish to serve.

Although when you see that a venue has their own chef and catering staff, you may feel limited or worried that the food won’t be up to your standard, but this is rarely true.

To ensure that you will love the food served at your event, request a chef’s bio, and even better, schedule multiple tastings or get a demo from the chef himself in your home.

Hidden Costs and Risks with Outside Caterers

Keep in mind that if you go with an outside caterer there may be an additional fee associated with doing so.

So if you are trying to cut costs, this is rarely the way to go.

In addition to your venue’s outside catering fee, there may be costly fees not traditionally advertised in your caterer’s quote.

Some of these could include staffing, building a field kitchen, equipment rentals, or service charges for closing their primary place of work or even for disposing of/hauling waste off the property.

Not all venues will provide access to a full catering kitchen and hopefully the outside caterer is planning on cooking all of the food fresh and onsite!

Also, if the catering service is accustomed to working exclusively out of their kitchen there may be issues with the food due to weather or equipment variations.

This is a risk you have to take when bringing in a caterer who may be unfamiliar with your venue.

Lastly, the biggest risk would be losing your security deposit due to damages to the venue.

No one wants a big unexpected expense after you have carefully budgeted for your event.

If your caterer spills grease and stains the paving stones or if they dump ice on the lawn and kill the grass, if their large truck breaks tree branches; these expensive damages will be taken from your security deposit.

Every reputable caterer is respectful of the places they work with, but there is a whole other level of respect when they are working on their home court.

How to get the best of both worlds

If your heart is really set on a caterer, keep in mind that you don’t have to have them work this particular event.

Especially if this caterer is a friend or family member and the event is your wedding.

Have them attend your wedding and use them for any other wedding related event.

Don’t forget about the various other times you and your guests will be dining together: Engagement Party, Wedding Shower, Bachelor/Bachelorette, Rehearsal dinner or even a fun after wedding Brunch.

If you are a corporate planner and you don’t want to neglect previously established relationships, simply use that caterer for a different event.

Chances are feelings won’t be hurt if everyone acts professionally.

Final thoughts

To have your event go as smoothly as possible and to insure that your food will be delicious, fresh and exactly what you decided on during your tastings, it really is better to go with the in-house caterer.

To combat risk and avoid hidden fees or additional costs, the in-house caterer is definitely the way to go.

Your friend, family member or business contact will definitely understand and there are lots of other ways to incorporate their food, where the cost and risks aren’t as high.

Your outside caterer might be a fantastic chef and and wonderful caterer but they just might not be fantastic for this particular event.

Your Turn…

Do you have any experiences or tips to share?

Please do in the comments below…

About the Author

Cynthia is the Director of Membership Services at Estate Weddings and Events. She is dedicated to help the members of EWE showcase their beautiful properties and excited by all feedback, both positive and negative about the member experience. You can follow her here Linkedin or Google+.

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Mar 21

Outdoor Entertaining Ideas + EWE Co-Founder Jamie Ehrsam Featured in San Diego Premier

March 21st, 2013 - By Nancy Ly

Outdoor Entertaining Decor & Event Ideas

Bali Gardens Estate

Recently our Executive Director & Co-Founder Jamie Ehrsam was asked by San Diego Premier magazine for her input on what a homeowner should consider when creating a livable, breathable and comfortable outdoor entertaining space.

Jamie suggested readers invest in pocket doors which are slidable doors that function as walls, windows and doors.

Jamie Ehrsam San Diego Premier Outdoor Entertaining

Jamie Ehrsam in San Diego Premier’s Outdoor Entertaining Issue

Considering pocket doors aren’t the quickest innovation you could whip up for any backyard party, here are a few other simpler ideas to prepare to surprise and amaze guests at your own at-home backyard party.

String Lights

Outdoor Event Decor Ideas: String Lighting

Some fun options for string lights

What is the allure of string lights outdoors?

Everyone seems to agree that they are the most magical decor elements you could bring to an outdoor space, but it’s hard to say why.

Well considering your backyard has no ceiling, string lights create the effect of one so all your guests can still feel united in one area while providing just the right amount of glowing light.

If you have a pool, string lights look absolutely amazing hanging over the water.

Umbrellas

Photo by Gabriel Ryan Photography

Hang pattered parasols from string across your garden to create a magical “Alice in Wonderland” feel.

The whimsical sight also provides shade for guests dancing or eating below depending on where you arrange everything.

If you’d prefer allowing guests to wander freely around with their own parasols, place a bucket of colorful parasols near your entrance so they can grab them.

Long Dining Tables

Long Dining Tables at Bali Gardens Estate

Bring royal feasting halls to the delight of your backyard where everyone can enjoy eating together under the stars or gorgeous sunset.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match chairs.

Also try out using benches instead of chairs which you could also place cushions upon to bring a home element outside.

One long table makes it easy to decorate the top of your table if you are hanging flowers or chandeliers (or other), for the fact that your wooden support poles can be consistently on either sides of the tables.

Lanterns

Candlelit Lanterns at the Emma Estate

To denote a walkway or hanging from trees, lanterns are a more rustic way to lighten up the scene.

Aside from keeping your candles safe from wind, the flickering light of lanterns creates a sense of romance.

If your backyard is fortunate enough to have large trees, stagger hanging lanterns and combine with string lights wrapped around branches for amazing dinner backdrops!

Balloons

Photo by PrettyGeeky Photography

Here’s a new idea- get helium-filled balloons and tie long thick ribbons to them, then stake the ends of the ribbons to the ground so you have them right where you want them.

One tip we found was using golf tees.

This field of balloons makes for a great photoshoot spot, or could even function as walls, if you were to close off a small picnic area or viewing area for our next tip.

Projector Screen

If you are having a reunion, company party, or any other gathering with a group of friends, you could set up a projector screen in one corner of your backyard and have videos playing of memories together.

If you are throwing a birthday or graduation party, you could alternatively have a slideshow of photos playing to show how your special someone has grown up and matured to that big day that you are celebrating.

A makeshift way to make a projector screen is to stretch white linen over wooden posts.

Or, you could project onto the side of your home’s wall, with white paper or linen sheeted over the surface.

Croquet, Yard Games

What are all your guests going to be doing besides eating?

Set up some small yard games like croquet or beanbag toss in corners of your yard to encourage people to wander around and have fun!

Little kids especially will appreciate the activities and so will their parents!

Linens, Rugs and Ottomans

Another part of bringing the indoors out is taking the softest elements of what you think of when you think of home, and incorporating them outside.

Lay rugs under drink or appetizer tables or even in an area with pillows where everyone can relax picnic style.

Linens can be used draped alongside posts to create doorway effects or just bump up the luxury factor.

You could even make curtains for the entrance-way to your backyard.

Ottomans are easy to rest down on without having to sit on the floor, so even the most nature-phobic friends can feel comfortable.

More ideas include:

– Floating candles or balloons in the pool

– Fire-pits

– Trays for easy transfer of food from the kitchen to outside

What other ideas can you think of?

About the Author

Nancy is a blogger and community manager for Estate Weddings and Events. When not typing away, she enjoys discovering new wedding trends and attending weddings and events to see all the people and private estates get dressed up! You can follow her on Google+ here, twitter here or linkedin here.

Mar 8

The Most Exciting March Events & Festivals You Don’t Want to Miss

March 8th, 2013 - By Josh Lew

March is the first month of Spring in the US.

This is a traditional time for vacations for many people, with some heading to tropical beaches and some trying to get in one more skiing session before the season ends and the snow melts.

In addition, one of the world’s most well-known cultural holidays takes place in March, while several major sporting events and one of the world’s most buzzed about music festivals are also on the calendar.

Here are the most anticipated events of March….

Saint Patrick’s Day

Things to do in March: St. Patrick's Day Events

image via Alan Light

This holiday has its roots in Ireland, but it is widely celebrated around the world with parades, cultural performances and plenty of parties.

Major parades take place in Boston, New York City, and Chicago.

In Chicago, the famous Chicago River is dyed green to mark the festivities, while Irish music, dancing and storytelling events are held in Boston’s historic Faneuil Hall.

The New York City Parade, meanwhile, is one of the biggest Saint Patrick’s Day parades in the world in terms of overall attendance and participation.

Many other cities around the country also mark the special day with parades or concerts and special celebrations in Irish-style pubs.

South by Southwest Music Festival

image via kk+

South by Southwest Music Festival, sometimes referred to using the acronym SXSW, is one of the biggest celebrations of indie music in the world.

Literally hundreds of concerts take place at small, intimate venues all around the Texas capitol over a weeklong event.

Both established indie artists and popular international acts who are trying to break into the US scene perform multiple shows.

This is also a starting point for many up and coming acts who are not yet nationally known.

Spring Break

image via abeeeer

Spring Break is a time when college students and young professionals head to tropical destinations for a weeklong party on the beach.

Places in the Caribbean, along the Gulf Coast, in Southern Florida, and even in Mexico are crowded with young revelers intent on having the party of a lifetime.

Even people who don’t want to engage in an all-out celebration can enjoy this traditional week off in March.

Quiet corners of the US Virgin Islands, California and Arizona all feature pleasant springtime weather and plenty of attractions, but lack the noise and crowds of more-popular spring break destinations.

Washington DC Cherry Blossom Festival

image via robeposse

Washington DC received a gift of cherry blossom trees from the mayor of Tokyo, Japan in 1912.

The trees still bloom every spring, with the picture-worthy white petals best enjoyed in late March.

The trees are located around the National Mall.

A number of other events take place during the festival, with concerts, fireworks, races, and art exhibitions all on the calendar.

The festivities spill over into April and end when the petals fall to the ground.

March Madness

image via JMR_Photography

During the second half of March, over 60 of the nation’s best college basketball teams take part in a huge single elimination tournament to crown the best amateur hoops squad in the country.

The NCAA Basketball tournament is so large that it cannot take place in one location.

Regional sections are held all over the country in major sporting venues.

This means that it is easy to get a taste of the tournament without traveling too far from home.

The tournament lasts for three straight weekends, and every game is shown on national TV, so people can enjoy the drama and excitement without even having to leave home.

What events should we add to our calendar of noteworthy March events?

Tell us in the comments section below…

About the Author

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Mar 1

The Best Online Tools for Event Planners

March 1st, 2013 - By Abigail Geer

Need help organizing your events?

Check out this incredible selection of tools.

From post planning to event followup,

there are plenty of online tools that can help you take care of every little detail!

Thanks to these free tools, planning events has never been easier…

Twtvite

Twtvite is one of the easiest and simplest invite tools ever, and best of all, it’s based completely on Twitter so there’s no need to manage multiple applications. How does it work? All you have to do is click to create your event, fill out all the necessary details such as date, location, and any ticket info, and your done! Now everyone can see who is attending, RSVP, and spread the word via their network through Twitter in seconds. It might not be the most comprehensive tool for those planning long term events, but you won’t find another tool out there that’s easier to use.

Slideshare

If you plan on using presentations at your event, slideshare is a must. If you have multiple presentations even better! Slideshare let’s you gather all the presenters’ presentations in the same place, streamlining your organization. As the world’s largest community for sharing presentations, it’s no surprise that this tool is used by event planners everywhere. It’s not just presentations that you can use Slideshare for either, Slideshare also supports documents, PDFs, videos and webinars.

Facebook Events

From small company dinners to lavish galas, you can create a Facebook event for just about anything. Before Facebook, getting the word out about your event took a lot of hard work – phoning and emailing invitees, handing out flyers, coordinating RSVPs. These days you can create an event via Facebook with a click of a button, invite everyone you know, then watch as your event spreads virally just from your own personal network of contacts. Promoting your event has never been so easy!

Google Maps

Want to make sure your attendees don’t get lost en route to your event? Enter Google Maps! Apart from the fact that you can create a Google Map that features your venue, and share it everywhere you publicize your event, you can also create custom maps that act as a personalized visual guide of useful places that your guests might want to know about. From the best local hotels to great places to grab a bite to eat, if your event is taking place in an area that many attendees have never been to Google Maps can act as the ideal resource for helping them find their feet.

producteev

Who needs a PA when you’ve got producteev! By simplifying your to do lists and allowing you to work more seamlessly, producteev will help you keep up with your daily tasks, set and meet appropriate deadlines, and track your progress. Offering dynamic organizational tools your projects are guaranteed to get done quickly and efficiently, and thanks to their exciting integration services you can access, interact and update from anywhere.

USTREAM

Want to offer a live stream of your event? Ustream is the tool for you. From small on location shoot to massive multi-camera gigs, Ustream can produce any event, at any scale, anywhere in the world. On top of that, Ustream also offers professional video event management to ensure your event goes off without a hitch. Streaming your content for free is a incredible marketing tool so why not get involved? If you need to generate a big buzz around your event then livesteaming could be just the way to do it!

amiando

Whether you’re planning a party, a conference or a concert, amiando is here to help. Their event software and award winning selection of tools will not only help you to promote your events more successfully, they will also save you valuable time and money, leaving you free to throw an event that will blow your guests away! From creating and managing events, to marketing and selling tickets, amiando is one of the leading event management services in the world and is sure not to disappoint.

Eventbrite

Eventbrite is one of the most popular tools in the event planning sector, and for good reason too! Create your event, promote via social media using their free tools, then manage the event entry using their intuitive mobile apps. No matter what events you’re planning, be it fundraisers, parties, retreats, conferences or classes, Eventbrite makes your job a breeze. In terms of resources to aid in the planning process, Eventbrite is the number one choice. Whatever you need they’ve got it covered! The site also offers an awesome affiliate program which lets other people promote your event for you.

Final thoughts…

Planning events can be mayhem if you don’t get a handle on the organizational process early on.

With these powerful online tools you can give your event a kick start to success so all you have to worry about is everything running smoothly on the big day!

What online tools do you utilize when planning events?

We’d love to hear from you so please share in the comments below…

About the Author

If you need to know about Weddings or Social Events, Abigail’s your gal, blogging away at Estate Weddings and Events! Sharing her passion for the environment, arts and crafts, and frugality, she enjoys adding a chic twist to anything DIY. Never seen without camera in hand, Abigail is completely and utterly in love with love! You can follow Abigail on Google+ here.

Feb 22

Recreate Bella & Edward’s Twilight Wedding

February 22nd, 2013 - By Claire Lewis

Bella and Edward's Twilight Wedding Recreated

Bella and Edward’s romance may be fictitious, but you can recreate their movie wedding into your own modern day fairytale!

Their wedding was one of the most anticipated weddings on the big screen.

Fans were eager to get a sneak peek of what wedding designer Tammy Polatsek created for this momentous scene.

With flowers cascading from the trees above, wooden benches for guests to sit, this was the ultimate romantic wedding scene.

Use these tips to copy Bella and Edward’s lush wedding style…

1. Flowers galore

Skip the roses, you won’t want them here.

Instead, use a variety of white flowers and lots of leafy greenery like ferns and touches of moss.

For the movie they used delphiniums, viburnums, white lilacs, ranunculus, and sweet pea, plus stones, ferns, and moss.

“We didn’t want the typical rose/hydrangea combination.

That was too arranged,” said Polatsek according to Bridal Guide.

twilight-wedding-reception-centerpiece

The key to your wedding reception centerpieces is to make them appear to be growing out from the table.

Add moss and ferns to the base of your floral arrangements to hide any vases used.

2. Wooden everything

Wooden tables, wooden dessert displays, vintage wooden chairs and benches, wooden archway, etc.

Did I mention you should use wood?

With Edward’s family’s long existence, they would have quite a number of vintage wooden tables and chairs that they would want to use for such an exciting celebration.

So be sure to rent vintage tables and chairs, and don’t be afraid to mix and match!

This tablescape below was featured on Style Me Pretty, and inspired by the Breaking Dawn wedding.

They chose a simple table runner instead of a full table cloth, so the natural wooden table and chairs were the main star.

Style Me Pretty – Meg Perotti Photograph

Don’t forget the most important piece, the archway!

Either buy or construct this yourself, but be sure to use an abundance of fresh flowers.

3. Natural Color Palette

Stick with a natural color palette revolving around the color green with accents of white and brown.

If you want to replicate the look, choose a moss green table cloth, preferably with texture.

You can rent the very same linens from the movie from Wildflower Linen, the style is called Lily Pad Moss.

4. Vintage style wedding gown

The wedding gown in the movie was designed by Carolina Hererra.

This is a replica from Alfred Angelo.

While you can’t find this in stores any longer, the key to achieving Bella’s flawless look is to find a classic, but skin hugging floor length gown.

The dress is simple and sleek with just a touch of lace, but otherwise unadorned.

Let the dress speak for itself, and keep your jewelry at a minimum.

5. Jewelry and Accessories

Ring

Bella’s engagement ring is as unique as it gets.

While you have an engagement ring to call your own, you can purchase a replica to adorn your right hand.

Infinite Jewelry Co. has produced a line of replica jewelry approved by the author Stephanie Meyer, including this ring.

Hair Piece and Veil

You can find plenty of replicas for Bella’s hair piece.

I recommend buying a vintage hairpiece and veil from an antique shop or Etsy.

This can also be your “something old!”

Shoes

Dying for a pair of Bella’s wedding shoes to call your own?

Manolo Blahnik – Swan

These crystal beaded satin shoes were designed by Manolo Blanik, and come with a hefty price tag of $1,295.

Get the look for a whole lot less by purchasing a moderately priced pair of white satin pumps, and buy shoe clips to add the ornate detail.

6. Setting

If you don’t live next to a forest, you can recreate the wedding at a private estate that oozes with romance.

You’ll want to find something classical with plenty of trees.

The Valentino Estate in San Diego has willow trees surrounding a private lake.

The weeping willow branches emulate the cascading flowers found in the scene.

7. Hair & Makeup

Bella’s hair was soft and subtle with braids leading into a low bun.

This tutorial will give you an idea of how to recreate the look.

Bella’s makeup from the film was created by makeup artist Stacey Panepinto.

According to Stacey, she focused on creating a soft smokey eye and had the rest of Bella’s makeup complement that.

The makeup artist gave a tutorial on Bella Sugar, which you can find out more on how to copy the look for yourself.

Will you be incorporating any Twilight inspired elements into your own wedding?

What other movie weddings are you influenced by?

About the Author

Claire is the Director of Client Relations for Estate Weddings and Events and will often be the first person to greet you and answer any questions you may have about planning your estate event. In her free time, she loves to make succulent arrangements, homebrew craft beers and put her love for crafts to work! You can follow her here Linkedin or Google+.

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Feb 18

Destinations Where You Can Live Like A Classic Hollywood Celebrity

February 18th, 2013 - By Josh Lew

The Golden Age of Hollywood is behind us.

However, it is still possible to get in touch with the classic luxury and style that stars like Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Clark Gable, Rita Hayward, and so many others enjoyed.

This is because a lot of the destinations that these stars vacationed in still have thriving tourism scenes.

Surprisingly, many of these classic places have changed little over the years, and those that have changed still retain a lot of the elegant charms and a few of the classic venues that gave them their glamorous vibe.

Want to enjoy the kind of kind of vacation experience that used to only be reserved for Hollywood legends?

Try one of these 10 destinations…

Miami

image via minds-eye

Yes, today South Beach is characterized by all-night-parties and sexy beach scenes.

But this area of Flrodia’s coastline was once a stylish haven for vacationers.

The art deco buildings still stand in several areas around Miami Beach.

You can spend the day wandering through these well-kept historic neighborhoods, or you could even stay in places like Casablanca on the Beach, a trendy hotel with a long and glamorous history.

For travelers who really want to turn up the glamour and bring a sense of exclusivity to their holiday, private rental villas in the Miami area are the best opiton.

If you really want to emulate the stars, both past and present, then a vacation villa is certainly a good option.

Scottsdale/Phoenix

Celebrity Estates in Scottsdale, Arizona

image via lightmatter

Scottsdale and Phoenix have long been popular getaway destinations for stars on the West Coast.

Everyone from silver screen luminaries like Humphrey Bogart to political figures like George Bush have come to the desert to relax.

The famous Biltmore Hotel has seen more star power than virtually any other hotel in the US.

The classic luxury and unparalleled elegance can still be found at the Biltmore.

The famous Camelback East District hosts name brand boutiques, fine dining restaurant snad glittering nightclubs.

And things like golf and luxury spas can also find theie way onto your itinnerary (as long as you have a generous travel budget).

Like Miami Beach, the best way to really turn up the extravagance and vacation like a star is to find a rental estate where you can enjoy a wealth of privacy and luxury.

Los Angeles

image via Estate Weddings and Events

Today’s film industry seems to be moving away from Hollywood movie studios.

But it is easy to get in touch with that golden time in the ’40s, ’50s, and ’60s when Hollywood was the center of the entertainment universe.

The walk of fame is still a popular tourist attraction, and you can still find some of the old haunts that Hollywood legends hung out at when they were in town for a movie shoot.

But the real way to get a feel for the elegance that used to characterize tinseltown is to head to a private estate.

At places like the Hollywood Grand Mansion, you can look out over the city while sipping champagne and actually enjoying the celebrity lifestyle for a day or two.

Of course, other celebrity vacation hot-spots like Malibu also have luxury rental estates.

Santa Barbara

image via myhsu

Santa Barbara, often referred to as the American Riviera, is a city that is filled with history and oozes classic elegance.

The Spanish colonial and Moorish architecture really gives Santa Barbara a classic atmosphere, while the always-perfect weather makes a vacation possible at any time of year.

Wine tasting rooms, world-class restaurants, stunning beaches and the boutiques located all through the downtown area give tourists plenty of vacation options, even if they are only in town on a day-trip.

To really experience Santa Barbara, a stay in a classic luxury hotel like the Canary Hotel or on a rental estate like Villa Verano should be on your holiday agenda.

New York City

image via DanDeChiaro

In some places, walking in the footsteps of the legends of entertainment history can require seeking out places that are hard to find.

That is certainly not the case in New York City.

Stars have been visiting and peforming at Broadway theaters and Big Apple nightclubs for decades.

The streets of 5th Avenue and Midtown Manhattan still have the kind of exciting and glamorous buzz that they have always had.

And you wouldn’t be able to count the number of moveis that have been set in iconic places like Central Park or the Empire State Building over the years.

This city still has a number of clasic hotels and restaurants.

If you are lucky enough to stay in a penthouse estate while you are here, you can engage in the one pastime that celebrities and tourists alike have enjoyed for more than a century: gazing at the impressive skyline at nighttime.

Palm Springs

image via JoeInSouthernCA

Palm Springs, which sits in the California Desert, has long been a haven for Hollywood’s elites when they wanted a quick getaway.

Since it is located near Los Angeles, it is, and has been for half-a century, one of Hollywood’s most c convenient vacation destinations.

Tourists can actually stay in hotels where Clark Gable and Cary Grant frequented.

And they can still visit the place where Elvis went on his honeymoon.

You could even say that while Los Angeles is a good place for seeing what life was like for Hollywood’s legends, Palm Springs is the place to come if you actually want to live like the world’s most famous people did during the 1950s and ’60s.

Key West and the Caribbean

Celebrity Destinations in the Cabribbean

image via Daran Kandasamy

The idyllic settings of the Caribbean and the Florida Keys have been drawing vacationers for decades.

Early celebrities like literary legend Ernest Hemingway spent a lot of time in Key West.

The charming colorful houses and classic pubs of his era still stand, and the sea and beautiful weather certainly haven’t changed since his heyday.

Many James Bond films were set in this tropical region over the years.

Celebrities, both past and present, have their favorite Caribbean islands: from Jamaica to Saint Bart’s to Bermuda.

Cape Cod

image via Francisco Diez

Cape Cod has long been a destination for the rich and famous.

The most celebrated of this seaside Massachusetts haven’s former residents was John F. Kennedy, though many others also spent time here.

Gregory Peck, Bette Davis, and Humphrey Bogart used to spend at least part of their summers on the Cape.

The Cape Playhouse, where vacationing celebrities would occasionally perform, still stands today.

To get a true celebrity summertime experience, you can rent a villa or vacation home near the water and spend your days sailing, swimming or just hanging around.

Hudson Valley

image via garritron

Like Palm Springs and Santa Barbara on the West Coast, Hudson Valley is a place that has seen its share of star power because of its attractiveness and its convenient location.

When they were in New York City for work, stars would often take a weekend trip out to the valley to stay in a private estate or on a vineyard, where they could enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings while also appreciating some luxuries as well.

Rental estates in the Valley still cater to people seeking this same blend of rural atmosphere and comfort-filled stylishness.

The French Riviera

image via Rodrigo_Soldon

The casinos of Monte Carlo are arguably some of the most glamorous places on earth.

But you don’t have to bet a year’s-income on red at the roulette table to get in on the excitement.

The Cote d’Azur’s best destinations (Monaco, Nice, St. Tropez, and Cannes, to name a few) wear their classic ambiance and casual elegance like a badge of honor.

No, this is not the cheapest place in the world to have a vacation, but if you want to experience real, timeless glamour, there is no place better on earth.

Any star from Hollywood’s history book has spent time here, and many of today’s most-famous celebrities still flock to Cannes and Monte Carlo when it is time for a vacation.

Do you have any suggestions for tourists looking to find a destination where glamour and history meet?

Tell us about them in the comments section below.

About the Author

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Feb 14

“Love Struck” Valentine’s Day Inspiration Shoot at the Hacienda Hermosa

February 14th, 2013 - By Claire Lewis

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Yesterday, one of our estates in San Diego was featured on Glamour and Grace for a Valentine’s Day wedding inspiration photo shoot.

The shoot took place at the Hacienda Hermosa in Encinitas, California.

The estate was the perfect backdrop for this sweet and romantic wedding inspiration.

We love the classic soft color palette of pink, gold and peach combined with the graphic patterns of the invitations, straws and ribbons!

The elements of wooden benches, tables and dessert displays, tie it all back to nature!

The perfect ceremony location:

A romantic moment on the swing! The perfect photo opportunity:

Thank you to the wonderful vendors who created this magical shoot!

Tell us what you think!

Don’t forget to check out our Valentine’s Day date ideas, as well as gift ideas!

About the Author

Feb 12

Valentine’s Day Date Ideas to Last the Whole Weekend!

February 12th, 2013 - By Nancy Ly

Have nothing planned on Valentine’s Day and are looking to do something fun?

We’ve compiled a list of activities that are anything BUT dinner and a movie.

These budget friendly (save for one) date ideas will last you the whole weekend, so the activities can extend well past the weekday holiday.

Take our friendly advice and we guarantee you Valentine’s Day will never feel the same again.

No date?

No problem!

Grab your mother, sister, cousin, study partner or whoever is available.

These ideas can be enjoyed by mostly anyone no matter what “type” of person.

Touch up on Culture

Date ideas for valentines day

Photo from La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art in January 2012 (Arch Daily)

How often do you make time to stop by an art museum?

Turn Elementary School field trips of the past into inspiring bonding experiences by taking a stroll through your city or county’s local art museum.

If you have never stepped into one before, this date idea is highly recommended!

Art galleries hold wonder for each individual who walks through them.

The experience, especially with someone close can be both relaxing and inspiring.

To be surrounded by great creations might even spark some ideas for you or your partner.

This is an easy way to “stop and smell the flowers” together!

Photo of The Getty by BillsPhotoofTheDay

Check your local museum to see if they have free admission on a certain day or timeframe.

For example, The MoMa and The Whitney in New York City are free and donation-based (respectively) on Friday afternoons (NYC Go Guide).

Some museums are always free or donation-based such as:

The Getty in Los Angeles, CA or The Contemporay Photography Museum in Chicago, IL (National Geographic Chicago Museum Guide).

Get Outdoorsy

Valentine’s Day can be about “going out” in a naturey way too!

Grab a map, some water bottles, and (if the weather is nice) grab some sunglasses because you two are headed for a fun and challenging morning in the mountains!

Hikes are a great Valentine’s Day date idea for two reasons:

1. You will most likely not have reception, therefore you will not be bothered by “the real world.”

2. There will be plenty of opportunity for you two to have conversations and find out more about one another, while getting to know your natural surroundings at the same time.

Photo from Above the Clouds Estate

Some hikes even offer a pot of gold at the end of the trail in the form of an amazing viewpoint or a natural wonder such as a waterfall.

What’s more is this is a one hundred percent organic date idea!

Pack Your Bags

Photo via Tikiki

Forget all the local plans…

Tell your Valentine’s Day partner to pack their bags and grab their passport, because you two are taking a trip to that city that’s been getting dusty sitting on your bucket lists!

Chicago? San Francisco? Portland? Austin? New York?

Why not?

Of course one weekend is not enough time to explore a truly foreign city situated across the Earth, and with only so few days together you don’t want to waste precious time while sitting in an airplane, so choose somewhere reasonably distanced.

See our recommendations of exotic United States Destinations for inspiration.

Photo of Telluride, CO via CNN

As crazy as it sounds, in the long run it is just one weekend.

Believe us, your Valentine’s Day will be the talk of your friends!

To see our full monthly travel guide, click here.

Stay In

Photo via Camilla Engman

Here is an idea you can definitely do, no effort needed.

In fact, the only effort you will have to put in is in trying to do as little as possible!

Wake up whenever you want, eat whatever is in your fridge, pull up a funny movie on Netflix or any favorite DVD, call for takeout, play a board game or some video games and end the night with a nice relaxing bubble bath!

For as much slack as Valentine’s Day gets for being a commercial holiday, one of its great purposes is to remind us about the basics of love and quality time.

If being static is incredibly impossible for you, then add a nice homemade dinner to close the night; however, no staying in the kitchen too long, and no dishes til the next day!

Catch a Concert

Photo via Nancy Ly

Studies have shown that dancing does wonders.

Social dancing can release endorphins, reduce stress and even counteract declines in aging, especially for older people.

A quick Google search for a concert or live music around your home can pull up some interesting acts.

Choose a band or performer the both of you feel comfortable seeing, and one that looks like it would be a popular event.

Take this opportunity to branch out to a new venue in your city or even a new music scene.

Photo via National Geographic

Since dance floors are aways inviting more pairs of feet, this would be a great activity to grab your friends to come along too!

Brewery Tour

Photo via Rawstory

Now possibly the date idea that most guys will be excited to hear is your genius idea of a brewery tour.

Even if your guy or girl is not into beer so much, it is a fun and exciting experience to see what goes on behind the scenes to create a seemingly simple drink.

You will gain some knowledge that you can tout around real beer fans, and maybe even find a newfound appreciation.

Each brewery atmosphere is unique and like stepping into a “home,” so the experience is a lot different from visiting a chain restaurant.

Along with beer tastings, some places offer food as well.

The famous Stone Brewery in San Diego, CA has a special menu just for Valentine’s Day.

Last but not the least, here is our guide for Valentine’s Day Gifts if you are still in need of one.

Do you have any date ideas to add?

About the Author

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