Unveiling the Elegance and Heroism at the 25th Annual Military Ball

Santa Barbara witnessed the 25th Annual Military Ball, an event that continues to capture the hearts of its attendees year after year.

This gala extravaganza, organized with impeccable grace by the experts at Felici Events, is a much-anticipated celebration, offering an evening of splendor and significance.

An Unforgettable Night

On Saturday, November 5th, 2022, the picturesque event unfolded at the Hilton Beachfront Resort, with an air of excitement and elegance. Guests arrived to find themselves enveloped in an enchanting atmosphere filled with a classic harp and kiosks of sale items created by military entities displays of military hats, imagery, photographs and art of military personnel, military fighter craft, and medals, with some items for sale to support the foundation. Following the cocktail reception guests entered the ballroom where The Replicas Music performed vibrant and themed live music, guests enjoyed a delectable three-course meal, and emotionally stirring presentations that would leave a lasting impact.

Year after year, the Military Ball proves to be a sell-out event, and it's no wonder why. Attendees eagerly anticipate the opportunity to reconnect with old friends, sway to the enchanting melodies of a live band, savor a sumptuous dinner, and immerse themselves in the grandeur and significance of the event's program.

Heroes Among Us

This year, the Military Ball was graced by a group of extraordinary individuals whose stories of valor and service resonated deeply with the audience. Led by Marc Brakebill of Beyond the Teams, this distinguished group of former Navy SEALs took center stage as the guest speakers. These men, who are no strangers to executing some of the most dangerous and secretive missions in the US Military, shared their inspiring stories about the importance of family within the military mission and beyond.

Beyond the Teams is a collective of former SEALs and like-minded individuals whose primary mission is to heal and serve their community. Their presentation, "The Teams Behind the Mission," was a moving testament to the unyielding spirit of these individuals who have dedicated their lives to protecting and serving our nation. Their stories left the audience inspired and deeply moved.

A Noble Cause

The 25th Annual Military Ball is not just a spectacular gala; it's also a powerful fundraising event with a noble cause. The Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation, the driving force behind the ball, directly contributes to vital initiatives, including UCSB ROTC, the Veterans Resource Center at UCSB, and SBCC’s Veterans Support and Resource Center. Moreover, the foundation is deeply committed to ending homelessness within the veteran community, ensuring that no veteran is ever forgotten.

In the heart of Santa Barbara, where elegance meets heroism, the Military Ball stands as a shining example of what a community, led by dedicated professionals like Felici Events, can achieve when it comes together for a common cause. As we look back on the 25th Annual Military Ball, we are reminded that the beauty of an event lies not only in its grandeur but also in the impact it has on the lives of those it serves.

Each year, this gala event serves as a beacon of hope, celebrating the heroes among us and raising the resources necessary to support those who have selflessly served our country. It's an evening of glamour, significance, and purpose, and it promises to remain a highlight on Santa Barbara's social calendar for years to come.

Wedding Wisdom Feature on Edible Magazine

Wedding Wisdom Feature on Edible Magazine

Recently I was was featured in the new (Wedding) Issue of Edible Santa Barbara Magazine (page 36). If you have not gotten a chance to grab it or don’t live locally, you can get the online version HERE.

Within the Wedding Wisdom article, Felici gives tips how to create a perfect and memorable Santa Barbara wedding, starting with one of the most important step: how to pick a wedding venue. She goes on to say that in Santa Barbara couples have plenty of choices when it comes to location. They can choose beachfront or mountain views, Spanish-style spots downtown, elegant hotels, or opt for picturesque wine country wedding. Felici specifically calls out Roblar Winery, Carhartt Cabin, and Acme Hospitality Group’s venues including Loquita, La Paloma, and The Lark.

Aside from selecting a gorgeous venue, Felici also recommends adding personal touches, giving special attention to other events surrounding the wedding like the rehearsal dinner or a farewell brunch, and working with some of the best and most trusted vendors in Santa Barbara including Ella & Louie Flowers and DJ Darla Bea. She even gives readers some insight into a couple of the hottest trends right now in the wedding industry including sustainability and dramatic ceilings.

From Zohe Felici:

I am so honored to be featured and to represent the local wedding community. I am especially grateful for my friendship with the kind and talented Krista Harris, editor of this gorgeous, educational, and mouth-watering magazine. She and I connected because we both THRIVE on sharing all the amazingness our area offers...and we both love food (no-brainer).

Also, make sure to check out the wedding of Jennifer and Tommy highlighted in the magazine, held at Lions Park in Carpinteria and photographed by Ingrid Bostrom.

P.S. if you have not taken the Wedding Style Quiz yet, you should! Your quiz results will give you personalized tips to start planning your perfect wedding or elopement. Access it here - What's Your Wedding Style — Santa Barbara Wedding Style.

Unique Team Building and Group Activities Santa Barbara Offers

Unique Team Building and Group Activities Santa Barbara Offers

Visit Santa Barbara invited Felici Events to have a conversation with local hotel sales teams and share ways to get groups to interact – either on-site at the hotels or out in the community, highlighting what we offer as a unique service and product in order to help work that messaging into their value proposition for holding the meeting in Santa Barbara - BEYOND THE BALLROOM.  

What we are hearing for meeting planning post-pandemic is people need a “Why” to leave home and travel for meetings.  Offsite meetings can’t just be about sitting in a conference room watching a PowerPoint, teams can just as easily sit at home and do that via Zoom.  Team Building events bring value and excitement to meetings while giving attendees the chance to bond with co-workers, interact with senior leaders, and embrace company culture. 

Immersion and experiential is our niche and we, at Felici Events, know that not all groups have time or budget to leave the hotel grounds so it would help to know if you can bring programming on-site.

CLICK HERE to download your 1 sheeter of (just a handful of) #Felicified activities we can coordinate for you in the Santa Barbara area.


CLICK HERE to start planning your Corporate Event Today!

2nd Annual ARISE 5K Chase Palm Soccer Field

Since the first 5K in December 2021 (originally for 2020, it was a Pandemic Postponement) was a huge success, the client, Mary Hudson hired Felici Events to Produce it’s second annual 5K Walk and Run.

Mary Hudson, Founder of ARISE International hosted the second annual Arise 5K run/walk on December 3, 2022, The event took place along the beach at the soccer field in Chase Park on Cabrillo Boulevard in Santa Barbara, California.

This event brought together participants from the community with music, food, and festivities following the race. Finishing medals were awarded to participants along with gift bags for the top 3 runners.

ARISE Women’s Conferences support women from domestic violence shelters and drug rehabilitation homes and help them arise from their past to a new life. This year’s 5K Walk and Run is a community friend-raiser and fundraiser for Santa Barbara Rescue Mission’s Bethel House Women’s Residential Treatment Program.

Felici Events produced and managed the logistics of the event, including registration, rentals, volunteers, decor, food, beverage, and entertainment.

Video of Arise 5K Walk / Run

Golf Theme Bar Mitzvah at Glen Annie Golf Course

Golf Theme Bar Mitzvah at Glen Annie Golf Course

 

Alec is a sporty young man, so when his mom told us she had chosed Glen Annie Golf Club as the receptin location, we screamed, Fore! because we knew we would hit this ball off course.

 

CAMA Centennial Community Celebration at The Sunken Gardens

CAMA Centennial Community Celebration at The Sunken Gardens

 

We love community events (after all, aren’t they synonymous), and this one in particular is very close to our hearts as it brought in FOUR of our favorite things:

  1. Community

  2. Food

  3. Wine

  4. Gorgeous Iconic Location

Felici Events was hired to produce a festive afternoon of collaboration with local cultural arts partners to gather for music, delicious food, and beverages, and the community to honor CAMA for this historic occasion: to celebrate the first 100 years of Community Arts Music Association.

The client wanted ‘something sweet and memorable’ to gift the community so we placed an order for 2500+ mini cupcakes with Lele patisserie (none were left over)

Created with a food and wine music festival in mind, the committee approached local favorites to be a part of the event, and Felici Events orchestrated over 20 local restaurants and 20 wineries to successfully participate and show off the best of the best in town within the day’s events. Over 2500 community members arrived to enjoy the afternoon celebration, delicious eats, special sips, and fantastic music in Santa Barbara’s most iconic wedding and event venue, the Sunken Gardens of the Santa Barbara Courthouse.

This event was free and open to the public, and included:

Musical presentations by:
Opera Santa Barbara
Music Academy of the West’s Sing! Program
Faculty of Westmont College
Department of Music, UC Santa Barbara
Members of Santa Barbara Symphony

FOOD:
Bibi Ji
Black Sheep Restaurant
Ca’ Dario Ristorante
Finch & Fork
Le Sorelle
Michael’s Catering
Pete Clements Catering
Olio e Limone
Opal Restaurant & Bar
Via Maestra 42

WINE:
Alma Rosa Winery
Babcock Winery
Brander Vineyard Cebada Wine
Grassini Family Vineyards
Grimm’s Bluff
Lumen Wines
Pali Wine Co.
Presqu’ile Winery
Santa Barbara Winery

CAMA is Santa Barbara’s oldest arts organization, and is presenting its 100th concert season in 2018-19. CAMA’s mission is to enrich the city’s cultural life by bringing live performances by world-renowned classical artists and orchestras of the highest artistic excellence to our community and by providing creative, focused music education programs for individuals of all ages.

Photographer: Bycherry Photography | Location: Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens | Planner: Felici Events | Restrooms: Marborg Industries | Cupcakes: Lele Patisserie | Audio: SPARK Creative Events | Rentals: BRIGHT Event Rentals | Musicians: CAMA | Staffing: Top Shelf | Popcorn Machines: Just 4 Fun Party Rentals | Valet: Bluestar Parking

 

1st Annual ARISE 5K Walk and Run at Leadbetter

The first annual 5K Walk and Run was a community friend-raiser and fund-raiser for Santa Barbara Rescue Mission’s Bethel House Women’s Residential Treatment Program. We accommodated 300 or so runners and walkers to help raise money and awareness for this organization’s mission.

Felici Events has built the website, created the marketing materials, digital media, and promotion, submitted free listings, and organized community efforts of sponsorship and word-of-mouth promotion with our partners and sponsors. Felici Events has also produced and managed the logistics of the event, including registration, rentals, volunteers, decor, food, beverage, and entertainment.

Cannabis at Events - an Educational Panel for Wedding and Event Professionals

Cannabis at Events - an Educational Panel for Wedding and Event Professionals

My wedding blog hosted an informative workshop for wedding professionals and the ever-curious question of how will our industry be able to safely, ethically and successfully maneuver our client requests of having cannabis or marijuana served at the event?

The afternoon consisted of a panel discussion about cannabis’ impact on the private and wedding event industry and education on what is permitted, required and expected so we can balance client and wedding couples’ requests as well as government mandates.

As legalization of recreational marijuana maneuvers thru California., cannabis-infused weddings (from bud bouquets to cannabis cakes) are gaining popularity and creating a buzz within the wedding industry. Respectively, due to the increase in planning cannabis infused weddings, new businesses are being established because of the emergence of the two things legal marijuana and celebrations / events.

Pre-panel discussion, guests mingled and nibbled at an innovative munchies bar created by Creative Services Catering. Goodies included maple glazed bacon, ginormous chocolate chip cookies, mac n’ cheese, popcorn, candy, chips and Twizzlers.

The Panel consisted of:

  • GrassFed - event "budbar" producers of cannabis themed pop up events and facilitators

  • Tina Fanucchi-Frontado, owner of KopSun - a cannabis education, information and health resource company for women

  • Liz Rogan of Liz Rogan and Associates - cannabis liaison, educator and advocate

Topics of discussion included:

  • What is happening in California vs the rest of the country

  • How we are seeing marijuana represented culturally now vs ten years ago…5 years ago

  • How is cannabis impacting events?

  • Tools for those who are unaware of state legalities and restrictions

  • Navigating the legalities and logistic of cannabis at special events

  • Ways to integrate cannabis into a couple’s special day

  • Incorporating marijuana and leaves into wedding florals, bouquets, decor and centerpieces

  • Infusing food with weed, how to legally serve it and the permitting needed

The number one take-away and piece of advice we received from our panel is:

GET EDUCATED!

There are a multitude of resources available and many people aren’t aware of how to maneuver and responsibly incorporate using herbs in their celebrations.

Thank you to the Team that Helped make this day special:

Ultimate Gray + Illuminating Wedding Colors - Pantone Color of the Year 2021

Ultimate Gray + Illuminating Wedding Colors - Pantone Color of the Year 2021

At Felici Events we set trends (that is a fact!), and showcasing this wedding (featured on Santa Barbara Wedding Style) from 2016 proves it.

Pantone announced its 2021 Colors of the Year - Ultimate Gray and Illuminating last week.

We could not wait to re-share this wedding that took place at the historic Casa de la Guerra that use this exact color combination and give you some trending tips for weddings that we used to make this local wedding couple’s casual and purposeful fun wedding come to life!

First, let us share with you a bit about “PANTONE COLOR OF THE YEAR” - For over 20 years, Pantone’s Color of the Year has influenced product development and purchasing decisions in multiple industries, including fashion, home furnishings, and industrial design, as well as product packaging and graphic design.

The Pantone Color of the Year selection process requires thoughtful consideration and trend analysis. To arrive at the selection each year, Pantone’s color experts at Pantone Color Institute comb the world looking for new color influences.

This can include the entertainment industry and films in production, traveling art collections and new artists, fashion, all areas of design, popular travel destinations, as well as new lifestyles, playstyles, and socio-economic conditions. Influences may also stem from new technologies, materials, textures, and effects that impact color, relevant social media platforms, and even upcoming sporting events that capture worldwide attention.”

Needless to say this all filters down into wedding and event design and trends. For us, we use all of the above-mentioned industries to help inspire us and create trendy touches for our non-profit Santa Barbara Events and Fundraisers as well as for our private social gatherings such as weddings, birthday parties, and bar or bat mitzvahs.

This year’s chosen colors are not a novelty by any means, but the meaning and story behind these colors is something we hold near and dear to our hearts based on the crazy Pandemic year and its effects on the world and in the event industry this past year.

“We need to feel that everything is going to get brighter – this is essential to the human spirit.”

PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray combined with PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating provides a message of happiness supported by fortitude, aspirational, which gives us hope.

I could not think of a better description than this color combination exemplifies for Eric and Nick’s ceremonious occasion! While these two gentlemen tied the knot, there was not a dry eye in the house. The support from their 150 guests, composed of close friends, family, was palpable during the couple’s nuptials. Once the festivities for the evening began happiness spread like a New York Minute.

For the color scheme, the couple picked the joyful combination of yellow and gray. On the tables, this translated to gray chevron runners from La Tavola paired with bright lemons incorporated into the centerpieces. The loose citrus added pops of yellow and aged wrought-iron lanterns added texture to the look. 

Hanging from above, Bella Vista Designs hung romantic string lights and a cluster of bright-yellow paper installations to mark the dance floor area.

See more details of this wedding HERE


Photographer: Clarissa Koenig Photography | Wedding Location: Casa de la Guerra | Wedding Planner: Felici Events | Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | Lighting: Bella Vista Designs | Catering: Soho Tacos | Cake: Your Cake Baker | Churro's: Fernando's Churros | Music: DJ Patrick Swayzak | Photobooth: Thoughtbox | Floral Design: NLC Productions



Interview of Zohe Felici on "Personally Professional"

Interview of Zohe Felici on "Personally Professional"

Zohe was a guest on a recent episode of EventPros.com series of "Personally Professional"

Take a look to find out a little bit more about:

  1. How I got started in the event industry

  2. How I am able to run 3 businesses successfully including this one (Felici Events), my business coaching for event pros (ZoheFelici.com), and an inspirational wedding blog (SantaBarbaraWedding.com)

  3. What I love about what I do

  4. What's one piece of advice that I would give to someone just starting out as an event planner

  5. How I have been dealing with your downtime or transition during the past several months of 2020

  6. How I have pivoted/rebranded as an event professional

  7. Tips on how to cope with the Pandemic’s effect and the event industry’s climate and economy? 

A little more about me, featured on Voyager LA - Meet Zohe Felici of Santa Barbara Wedding Style

A little more about me, featured on Voyager LA - Meet Zohe Felici of Santa Barbara Wedding Style

I loved this feature for one of my businesses, Santa Barbara Wedding Style, a blog dedicated to providing curated free inspirations to couples getting married in the American Riviera and surrounding areas.

Thank You Voyager LA for the write-up. You can see the whole post HERE


Today we’d like to introduce you to Zohe Felici.

Zohe, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am a zealous wedding and event professional and business mentor.

I was born into a family of Felici Events (literally, in the womb, haha). Being 100% Italian born and raised, our family gathered at each meal and treated it as a celebration. And while at each meal, we were already planning our next meal, menu or gathering.

My passion for hospitality and career in the food and beverage industry started when I was three years old. I would be at my mom’s side, to help prepare dinner, set the table, and then play waitress. I recited the specials then would write down my family’s dinner order on (my favorite thing ever) an authentic carbon copy diner’s pad……I could barely read and write yet.

My love affair with restauranteering continued into college. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from the University of North Texas and immediately launched my career into the corporate ladder of the 5-star luxury resort industry. This gifted me with a solid foundation in business, management, forecasting, exemplary guest services, and the training to lead empowered teams.

In the spring of 2006, I took a leap of faith and left the stability of corporate America to become an event manager for an established independent wedding and event planning company, and eventually launching my own Event Production Company, Felici Events, where I create immersive, creative and memorable experiences for intimate gatherings to large scale festivals.

In 2015, I became a “duo”-preneur and purchased www.SantaBarbaraWedding.com, A wedding blog dedicated to providing engaged couples resources and inspiration for planning their wedding in and around Santa Barbara.

In 2018 I became a coach and mentor for creative event professionals and wedding planners who desire to catapult their wedding/event business by attracting their perfect clients and uncovering five-figure months consistently.

I could not run the show for these three profitable wedding and event businesses without the support of a dedicated team, and am so grateful. I continue to grow all three companies while being an expert speaker and continuing to share my knowledge at numerous event industry conferences around the United States.

Has it been a smooth road?
Anytime there is growth, there certainly are struggles that accompany it. When I launched Felici Events, I had less than $500 in the bank. I WAS TERRIFIED. It was a powerhouse of event pro-“friend”ssional women who supported me as I gave birth to my brand and helped me find my courage to built my event production company. I was instantly planning weddings, fundraisers, corporate events, mitzvahs, and large international festivals with over 20,000 attendees.

In 2017 and 2018 Santa Barbara experienced the destructive Thomas fire and devastating mudslides. They not only affected our community, small businesses, and morale but also toppled the wedding industry with venues that were affected by the disasters. It was our community of wedding and event professionals who bound together to help each other and strengthen our efforts.

Now maneuvering thru COVID-19 and the effects of the pandemic to our industry, our wedding and event professionals have bonded more than ever to help each other maneuver thru such an unprecedented climate. Leading the group with weekly zoom calls, I was able to ensure that wedding + event pros from across the country got the support they need to flourish from the economic, emotional and social symptoms of the Pandemic.

We’d love to hear more about your business.
I own and operate three businesses, all within the event industry.

Felici Events is a first-class, award-winning full-service event planning and production company that specializes in immersive and memorable events from 10 to 20,000 guests. Felici Events understands that excellent customer service relies on a complex choreography of often invisible moving parts. It is Zohe’s ability to manage both her clients and vendors that are the cornerstones to her success and countless happy clients who hire her company for their gatherings and special events.

Santa Barbara Wedding is a wedding blog dedicated to providing engaged couples resources and inspiration for planning their wedding in and around Santa Barbara. Zohe’s passion for showcasing the talented wedding planning professionals and venues of the American Riviera is curated especially for our blog and #SharingLoveInSB for you, and couples’ dream Santa Barbara wedding weekend!

ZoheFelici.com is a six-figure creative event-pro business coach. Part strategist and part motivational mentor, I provide no-fluff programs for creative event professionals who are ready to transform their businesses, uncover a consistent additional five figures per month, and LOVE what they do.

I know the demands and risks of running an event business. I provide the accountability, knowledge, tools, and perspective to overcome these challenges in order to build momentum and catapult results toward your event professionals DREAMS and GOALS.

Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Yes, absolutely it is a great place to start an event planning business. There is such a supportive community in the Los Angeles area, between ILEA, NACE, WIPA as well as various independent wedding + event groups, the support is there, and the magic of events happens in LA starting all the celebrity and movie industry celebrations.

Contact Info:


Image Credit:

image Willa Kveta Photography

8th Annual Halloween Dance Party 10.31.19

8th Annual Halloween Dance Party 10.31.19

ABOUT

Join us for this wicked dance party produced annually by Felici Events.

VooDoo Lounge Halloween Dance Party
Saturday, 10/31 to Benefit
TVSB
9PM to 12:30AM

Funk Zone Lounge

209 Gray Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93101


2019 marks the 8th year of this fundraising Halloween Dance Party with this year’s proceeds benefitting a local non-profit, TV Santa Barbara.

Includes DJ and dancing entertainment by DJ Scott Topper, special dance performances, tarot card readers, a haunted Action Photo Booth, ca$h prize costume contest & the Voodoo Altar making this a haunting evening to remember!

The Funk Zone Lounge will have spirited specials and Shalhoob Yummi Finger Food available for purchase the night of the event.



ENTRY INCLUDES:

Costume Contest at Midnight
1st place $200 CA$H | 2nd place $50 gift certificate

Professional Photography | Haunted Photo Booth | Tarot Card Readers | Surprise Entertainment

Cash bar with spooky signature cocktails + full bar | Food available for purchase (included w/ VIP ticket)

Scott Topper DJ'ing | Voodoo Altar | Dancing Zombies Welcome!


Halloween 2018

At Viva Modern Mexican Restaurant

images by Kelsey Crews Photo






Community Memorial with 2000+ Attendees for Mr. Santa Barbara

Community Memorial with 2000+ Attendees for Mr. Santa Barbara

 

It was an incredible honor to create an event commemorating the late Michale Towbes, Santa Barbara’s most influential and respected entrepreneur and philanthropist. The community event consisted of an afternoon at the Granada Theatre. Over 2000 spectators and community members gathered as Michael Towbes’ closest friends, family, work confidants and even Governor Jerry Brown took the stage to individually honor and shared in songs, stories, photo collages and favorite memories of the beloved guest of honor. The touching tribute ended with Mr. Towbes friends and family on stage to sing the guest of honor’s favorite song and getting every single spectator of the filled theater on their feet to .

The afternoon memoriam was followed by a champagne toast and mini cupcake reception at the iconic Santa Barbara Courthouse Sunken Gardens. A quartet performed Mr. Towbes favorite songs while guests mingled and celebrated the life of our community’s beloved philanthropist, and all-around mensch. The garden party included orchids, his favorite flowers as well as personalized cocktail napkins printed with his favorite quotes or “Towbe-isms including:

“Onward and upward…”
“Some of the best deals I ever made were  the ones I didn’t make”
”The only thing I like better than a ground breaking is a ribbon cutting”
”I always try to do my best, even when no one is watching”

We had the absolute pleasure of working with Mr. Towbes on several party planner projects, including his 80th Birthday Celebration and Fundraiser for the Granada Theatre Capital Campaign, his 85th birthday brunch and a show at Bacara Resort and Spa, as well as one of his company’s 60th Anniversary Celebration and Roast of MT. Each event was carefully planned to exemplify things Mr. Towbes loved and supported, the arts, fundraising and success in business. Creating this garden party to reflect and combine the personality, passion and entrepreneurial psyche of our local tycoon was the hardest story to tell, and the most rewarding to produce.

Undoubtedly, Mr. Towbes has been a huge influence on our community and the people in it. Everybody wanted to celebrate the life of this extraordinary man, Michael Towbes.

Santa Barbara will not be the same without him.

GRAZIE MILLE to the Event Production Team who made this all happen!

Photography: Kelsey Crews Photo

Music at the Granada: Scott Hiltzik, Aurora Ensemble

Garden Party Venue: The Santa Barbara Courthouse Sunken Gardens

Memorial Venue: The Granada Theatre

Rentals: Elan Event Rentals and The Tent Merchant

Audio at the Sunken Gardens: SPARK Creative Events

Quartet Music at the Sunken Gardens: Idiomatiques

Mini Cupcakes: Léle Patisserie

Flowers: Louloudi Boutique Floral Design

Bartenders: Liquid Cult

Servers: Top Shelf

Transportation: SB Trolley

Valet: BlueStar Parking

Also, a special thanks to MarBorg Industries and Triumph Protection Group

 

A Dramatic Oceanfront Wedding Ceremony with a Greenhouse Reception

A Dramatic Oceanfront Wedding Ceremony with a Greenhouse Reception

 

Owners of a new local organic restaurant, it was important to the bride and groom that the location resonated with their plant-based and sustainability mantra, therefore what better than a greenhouse wedding reception location? That is why we produced this organic wedding for a sweet couple at the Orchid Estate along the Gaviota Coast.

Something that I find NUMBER ONE IMPORTANT when seeking an event venue, is to find a location that ties in with the theme, purpose, personality or intended vibe. In this case, the greenhouse brings so much interest and uniqueness to the guest experience, not only is it a WOW factor to be forever remembered, it was a day-journey.

Guests were shuttled to the end of the property, walked a short path, crossed the train tracks to find themselves along a breathtaking oceanfront cliff lined with wooden benches. After the teary eyes wedding ceremony, and swoop kiss, guests enjoyed cocktails and delicious hors d’ouvres inside a living plant portion of the greenhouse.

For dinner, live music entertained guests inside the event greenhouse, which was decorated with mismatched chairs, runners, wooden tables and interesting furnitures. The eclectic decor complimented the industrial and symmetrical greenhouse, softening the look and feel of the unique venue.

Thank you to the amazing team of vendors who helped make this another flawless #FeliciWedding.

Catering: Season Catering | Flowers: Secret garden | Lighting: Bellavista Designs | Music ~ BandThe Class Band | Photography: Clarissa Koenig photography | Planner Felici Events | Rentals: Ventura Party Rentals

 

Lavender & Purple Wedding at Alice Keck Park & El Paseo Restaurant

Lavender & Purple Wedding at Alice Keck Park & El Paseo Restaurant

Featured on Santa Barbara Wedding Style Blog, this bride and groom are very special to Zohe because the groom is one of Zohe's best friends, and Zohe was honored when they asked her to plan their Santa Barbara wedding.

The couple chose to hold their ceremony at the beautiful Alice Keck Park in Santa Barbara, since that is where they had part of their first date. 

The bride knew her colors from the start of the wedding planning, that is why the bridesmaids wore purple, knee length gowns and carried varied shades of purple floral bouquets crafted by the ever talented Margaret Joan Florals.  

The couple hung different shades of purple ribbons behind them at the existing lush ceremony altar, creating a fun backdrop as Rich Tobin led the couple through their vows. Guitar Witt duo softly played Spanish style music throughout the ceremony which incorporated the bride's Cuban background and added romance to the park’s ambiance. 

Felici Events worked with this couple to plan a wonderful day for them as they moved from the ceremony to the iconic El Paseo Restaurant for their reception.

Kelsey Crews Photo captured the day so perfectly and that she even got a few shots in of the couple’s beloved pooch, Kirby, who made his appearance at the ceremony. The day ended on a sweet note with a full dance floor of dancers, and nonstop dancing to music provided by Gavin Roy Presents as well as a delicious cake by Christine Dahl Pastries.

Cake - Christine Dahl Pastries

Ceremony Venue - Alice Keck Park

Flowers - Margaret Jordan Floral

Lighting - SPARK Creative Events

Music ~ Ceremony & Cocktails - Guitar Witt

Music ~ Reception - DJ Gavin Roy

Officiate - Rich Tobin

Photography - Kelsey Crews Photo

Planner - Felici Events

Reception Venue - El Paseo Restaurant

Rentals - Just 4 Fun Party Rentals

The Pink Polo Party

The Pink Polo Party

 

The Breast Cancer Resource Center 15th Annual Pink Party Fundraiser 

Over 350 supporters attended the late afternoon-evening fundraising event, which took place at Bella Vista Polo Club, in Carpinteria.  We named the September soiree, benefitting the Breast Cancer Resource Center, the Pink Polo Party, incorporating the pink theme along with a breathtaking location, including a polo match as entertainment for a portion of the evening.

We enjoyed incorporating a plethora of details into this event to create distinctiveness and personalization.

The breeze swung the pink and white paper lanterns creating a playful ambiance and focal points during the day as well as visible decor at night.

We added a little little glam by using pink beaded curtains to spruce up the plain white front bars. Speaking of bars, this also became a focal point with an octagonal canopy adorned with sheer pink curtains on the pole, and incorporating they crystals and glam with hanging round chandeliers inside the canopy.

The striped linen created a sense of casual elegance, and the trophies we used for the centerpiece vessels tied the entire event together.

From pink parasols to branded cocktail napkins, each detail included a lot of thought and detail, even the pink signature cocktails sponsored by Patron Tequila.

Seasons Catering created a stunning buffet including a branded logo ice sculpture for the fresh shrimp bar. At night, we lit the ice sculpture which was housed under a rectangular canopy, creating a three dimension space within the vapid dark polo field.

In three words, this #FeliciFundraiser was:

Elegant. Effective. Beautiful.

 

 

 

A huge thank you to the Santa Barbara event vendors who made this night possible:

Photos: Clarissa Koenig

Rentals: Classic Party Rentals

Lighting: Bellavista Designs

Alcohol Sponsor: Patron Tequila

Event Production: Felici Events

Location: Nesbitt Private Polo Estate

Hacienda Themed Fiesta!

Hacienda Themed Fiesta!

 

We love love love culturally infused events, and this Spanish Hacienda themed FIESTA! we produced for UCSB's Board of Regents, was no exception. Inspiration came easy for this dinner reception. Having lived in Mexico City, Zohe Felici experienced first-hand the vivacious folklore of the country's decor, food and culture.

We incorporated an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as custom made signs and maracas to decorate the custom-built mercado. A large sunflower floral piece added an attractive focal point to the various details of the colorful food station. The dessert table offered authentic flan, Mexican hot chocolate and a Mexican coffee station, along with the colors and textiles of Mexican ceramic dishware from Classic Party Rentals

Sombreros and colorful flowers floating in the pool added a third dimension to the tan architecture, as well as a fun and casual conversation starter among guests. The Mexican Artisenia (hand-made decor) atop vivid La Tavola Linens adorned the colorful floral consisting of mini hydrangea, daisies and carnations.

An all female mariachi band authenticated the guest experience by performing for a portion of the evening.

From the sights and beauty of decor, to the delectable Mexican dinner menu, this #FeliciEvent was: Fantastico! Delicioso! Padre!

 

Private Estate Silver + Blue Santa Barbara Wedding

Private Estate Silver + Blue Santa Barbara Wedding

Villa Verano February Santa Barbara Wedding

This very special private estate wedding was full of delight, elegance and a class act couple to go along with it!  When Jill + Jason sought me out, they did not have a location picked out yet, but knew they wanted to get married 2.15.15 because of Jason's work schedule (Hight School teacher in NYC).  They were really leaning toward a luxury hotel wedding, but wedding planning is my thing and reading people my talent.

Because their friends, families and selves were coming to California from the East Coast, I suggested they look at private venues.  This would allow them to enjoy the weather and stunning views Santa Barbara offers for longer than a 2 hour stint (with daylight savings, they would have most of the reception in the dark).   Soooo, off to see venues we went, and Villa Verano is what they fell in love with.  It allowed for their close family to stay w/ them (just as if they were in a hotel) and enjoy the property and privacy for their entire stay.

I The colors the client chose were silver and blue for this February affair.  Below the gorgeous invitations created by the über talented Lazaro Press and Designs.

Jill and Jason Invitation Wedding Blue and Silver Felici Events
Jill and Jason Invitation Wedding Blue and Silver Felici Events

The wedding ceremony took place at the quaint and intimate setting of the lower garden on the property. Their officiate, a close friend, did a phenomenal job with the ceremony.  I would hire her for all of my nuptials if she lived closer, not New York City.

Jill and Jason Wedding Ceremony Villa Verano Felici Events
Jill and Jason Wedding Ceremony Villa Verano Felici Events

The colors worked so well with the venue, flirty flowers, elegant linens and silver rimmed glassware

Jill and Jason Table Set Up Felici Events Villa Verano
Jill and Jason Table Set Up Felici Events Villa Verano
Jill and Jason Excort Card display on hydrangea Felici Events
Jill and Jason Excort Card display on hydrangea Felici Events

The escort cards are displayed on a bed of hydrangeas which eventually became a focal point.  

The couple's sweetheart table full of lush white floral with the themed colors.

sweetheart table felici events villa verano
sweetheart table felici events villa verano
villa verano view
villa verano view

Here is a full view of the gorgeous reception terrace, with string lights and heaters provided by the venue. 

Felici Events Blue and Silver table top birds eye view
Felici Events Blue and Silver table top birds eye view

And a birds eye view of the gorge white floral with lily's hydrangeas, paler roses, white roses and more.

We don't know what was prettier, the backdrop of the American Riviera or the simple and delicious wedding cake.

room for cake felici events blue and silver
room for cake felici events blue and silver
sweetheart table felici events chandelier
sweetheart table felici events chandelier

Listening to the toasts, the chandelier above the sweetheart table brought romance to the decor.

First Dance Jill and Jason
First Dance Jill and Jason

And their first dance!

thank you bride and groom felici events
thank you bride and groom felici events

We love this moment captured by the photographer of the bride laughing at her new hubby.  He is a funny guy, and she has a great laugh, so we are partial to this image.  Thank YOU Jill + Jason for hiring Felici Events as your planner for your perfect winter Southern California Wedding!

Grazie Mille to the Team of Vendors who made this magical week-end happen!

Cake - Room For Cake

Catering - Omni Catering & Events

Flowers - Coco Rose Design

Hair/Make Up - Chateau Belle

Invitation - Lazaro Press & Design

Lighting - Bella Vista Designs

Music ~ Ceremony & Cocktails - The Aurora Ensemble

Music ~ Reception - DJScott Topper Productions

Photography - Andrejka Photography

Planner - Felici Events

Rentals - The Tent Merchant

The Godfather Themed Birthday Party

The Godfather Themed Birthday Party

Zohe's Plans and Celebrates the Godfather of Birthdays

As an event planner and designer, the WORST event to ever plan is YOUR OWN!  

Zohe looked to her Felici Events team and event professionals to help produced her BIG celebration for her birthday.  Inspiration came easy for Zohe:

  1. It had to be Italian, simple and relevant
  2. It was to take place at the Santa Barbara Club

Naturally, we created a The Godfather theme celebration to accommodate both requirements above, and also because the movie turned 40 years old as well!  

The Santa Barbara Club was were AMAZING to work with, and Zohe's favorite place on earth!  From the planning to the execution, it was a first class experience. They created menu, keeping with the Italian theme and Zohe's desire to have a cocktail style reception for her and her guests.

Going back and forth on what to do, what not to do, who to invite, how much to spend, etc. Zohe finally decided to listen to her own event planning advice.  "Be True To YOURSELF!" Don't try to please other people.  It is something we naturally do as humans, and not what you should be doing for OUR day.

La Bella Musica, titilated the theme with sound of his accordion playing, setting the tone for this Italian Godfather Themed Felici Event.

NLC Productions and Bellavista Designs created a dramatic design to the already impressive Santa Barbara Club, each entity incorporating red. NLC using mercury glass and red roses of floral; and Bellavista Designs providing dramatic red uplights both inside the club and on the patio.  Even the venue's moose head got a glam up, coining the name "Moose-olina"

Instead of a guest book Zohe created a madlibs for guests to fill out throughout the night, and turn in. The memories do continue, every once in a while Zohe takes out the madlibs to LOL at her guests' responses.

Gavin Roy threw down some tunes for guest to boogie down, integerating Italian songs from Zohe's childhood, Adriano Celentano.

The Godfather Birthday Theme stayed thru to the sweet ending, with a horse head cake - let's say, it was one of the talks of the night....

Madlibs instead of guest book
Guest sign in
Dick Parto floral in the music
Godfather theme decor
Floral and Linen Felici Events - NLC Production
Fireplace NLC Production Decor Roses and crystals
NLC Production Godfather table decor

A HUGE thank you to the talented team to help Zohe along her way and on her special day!

Bellavista Designs - lighting and design expert enhancing the club into the theme with cohesion and detail

Bella Musica! Dick Prato - live accordion player, ambience creator and music maker

Gavin Roy Presents, Gavin Roy - DJ and music guru extraordinaire!  He even played Blurred Lines more than once per guest request

Kiel Rucker Photography - capturing moments in time, unobtrusive, fun and knows what he's doing behind the camera

La Tavola Linen  - gorgeousness and glamour delivered with a smile

NLC Production - floral and design, mindreader, and therapist to Zohe

The Santa Barbara Club - venue and celebration location as well as deliciousness food and drink and five star service

Your Cake Baker, Wayne Kjar horse head cake maker and everyone still raves about how delicious it was!

Felici Events, the team that helped Zohe produce her vision into a reality, relax on her big day and ensure a flawless experience for all

And a GINORMOUS Mille Grazie to all who came and made Zohe feel special!

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FULL ALBUM by Kiel Rucker Photography

Real Felici Eclectic Orange Historical Museum Wedding

Real Felici Eclectic Orange Historical Museum Wedding

This cute couple celebrated their fall wedding day with funky, eclectic decor with a bright orange color palette. The Santa Barbara Historical Museum was chosen to host both the ceremony and reception. Ceremony was held in the lower courtyard with an asymmetrical draped arbor featuring hanging orbs featuring colorful mini cacti. During ceremony, the couple literally tied the knot, and bound two ropes together, symbolically. The bride wore a fitted a-line wedding dress and paired it with a wild bouquet and flower crown by Precious and Blooming. Dinner was held in the upper courtyard around the fountain and guests sat a mix of round linen draped and wood farm house tables. Village Modern Foods served a delicious feast and My Vintage Photobooth was a fun interactive element and favor for guests. All was expertly coordinated by Felici Events and captured by photographer, Nancy Neil. 

 

Photographer: Nancy Neil | Wedding Planner: Felici Events | Location: Santa Barbara Historical Museum | Floral Design: Precious and Blooming | Catering: Village Modern Foods | Ceremony Music: Santa Barbara String Quartet | Photo Booth: My Vintage Photo Booth | Rentals: Town and Country Event Rentals | Videographer: Skyline Videography | Hair and Makeup: Ab Fab Glamour Studio | Lighting: Bella Vista Designs | Transportation: Santa Barbara Trolley