A Colorful Seaside Wedding

Indian weddings are delightful to plan. The vibrant color of the decor, eclectic foods, wonderful tradition and gorgeous Saris... This wedding was no exception. The wedding was held on a rooftop of a wonderful private building in Santa Monica. This wedding was both traditional and unique . We worked with Hidden Garden - www.hiddengardenflowers.com - to incorporate dramatic and vivid color.

The afternoon began with the groom riding in a car (no, not an elephant) decorated with flowers down Ocean Avenue. The guests marched around Santa Monica with a drummer in tow. He then met his bride in a ceremonious exchange. There were two separate marriage ceremonies.

The Indian ceremony was officiated by a Hindu Priest whose two daughters interpreted. Sitar players strummed in the background as this colorful and traditional ceremony took place.

After the first ceremony a Spanish guitar trio began to play and guests were served Lassi (an Indian drink made from sweet yogurt) and offered tray passed appetizers. The bride changed from her traditional Sari into her Monique Lhuillier gown. A friend of the couple officiated this Spiritual ceremony. After the second ceremony guests enjoyed the music on an outdoor terrace before the multi course dinner was served. An introduction of the families, heartfelt toasts and much dancing followed. In honor of the ocean just steps away guests took home chocolate Sea Turtles (hand crafted by Lee Gelfond - www.leegelfondchocolate.com) with a note that a donation had been given in each guests' name to Heal the Bay.

All photography by the talented James Johnson - www.jamesjohnsonphotography.com

ROARING 20's PARTY

Theme parties can be so much fun. My client wanted a very special celebration for her 30th birthday. We took over a two story town home at The Sunset Tower Hotel as well as their lovely lounge adjacent to the pool.

The party was small in size - fifteen of the birthday girl's closest friends but no detail was overlooked. Guests were asked to dress in attire from that era and a wonderful stylist I work with -Vickie Adamson - http://www.signaturestylist.com/ created custom headpieces and boas for all of the women. Guests were given personalized hip flasks upon arrival as well as stylish cigarette holders. From the drinks served in porcelain tea cups (to hide the alcohol) to the black and white flicks playing on the screen to the bottles of gin in the tub - guests knew this would be a very special evening.

A highlight of the evening was a "raid" featuring authentic Keystone Cops who busted in to the party. Just before dessert and cake were served - a masterpiece by Rosebud Cakes - http://www.rosebudcakes.com/ - I brought in dance teachers to teach guests the Charleston. This intimate event proves that you do not need a large guest list to throw a memorable party.

Photos taken by the creative Cindy Gold of Gold Wong Photo.