Colorful Gainey Vineyard Wedding

Santa Barbara Wine Country

Rustic and Fuchsia  Romance

How cute is this #FeliciFied couple?  

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events first dance

The minute Santa Barbara based destination wedding planner, Zohe Felici of Felici Events, met the lovebirds, she knew that the wedding (and planning) would be fun. She was right!

A lot of thought and details came together including some handy crafting by the groom.

Below are creative ideas you can incorporate into the cocktail reception, in order to meld guests who may not know each other.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events Polaroi Photo Line

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events Polaroid Photo Idea

TAKE TWO!

A selfie Polaroid station is creates an area where guests may ask each other to take pictures and start conversations. Bigger bonus, look at this dramatic backdrop of beautiful Wine Country.

#FeliciFrill: on our coordination team, we provide a team member to oversee cocktail hour to engage with and help direct guests, as well as ensure the guest book is signed and questions answered.  In this case they reminded guests to take two: one for the photo book (with a love note for the happy couple) and one for themselves to keep.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felic Events Guest Book

This personalized guest book, designed by the groom, allowed for guests to adhere their polaroids into and write a note to the happy couple.  The wood, a masculine element, incorporated the rustic wine country decor wedding theme.  The little floral insignia on the corner, brings out some girly touches, continuing the dahlia flower theme.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events boccee ball cocktail hour

Felici Events, specifically Zohe, is a #FeliciFied bocce ball player.  She likes to play at the beach, but really anywhere outdoor is great. This cocktail hour wedding activity is also an effective way for guests to meet and get to know each other.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events Succulent Escort Cards

THREE-FER: Escort cards with succulents is what we call a triple-whammy!

1) They create a design piece on the escort card table

2) They enhance dinner table centerpieces

3) They provide a keepsake guest wedding favor

#FeliciFrill: Our wedding coordination team will assist guests to pick up their escort card and direct them to their table, as well as remind guests to grab their favors on their way out at the end of the night.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events rock table numbers

The outdoor wedding reception contained a number of masculine decor elements, such as the stone table number positioned on the wooden table.  The decor emulated a balanced mix of masculine (wood, green, rocks, succulents) with the feminine (bright fuchsia florals, bursts of dahlias, glitter and vivid colors), just like the happy couple's personalities.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events winery and purple wildflower centerpiece by Nina Kinkaid

The centerpieces, overflowing from a wooden box. added bright colors and textures including greens, purples and fuchsia, which look rich and interesting.  It welcomes wonderful, soft and feminine elements.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events centerpiece Nina Kinkaid

Mmmm, there is mint and the tuber roses, which infused the air with amazing aromas. (can you see how the succulents expand and add interest to the centerpieces?)

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events Dinner Menu Fun and unique

#FeliciFrill: We believe signage and print is a MUST DO for any event (CLICK HERE for more ideas and Felici tips).

Above is a creative example of design of a smartly worded menu which helps engage dinner guests  as well as lets guests know "What's Up?" in a playful and decorative manner.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events Cake Topper

The glam gold sparkly cake topper says it all!  It was the best day ever!

- - - - -

SAY CHEESE!

Below are wonderful wedding party photos.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events groomsmen pastel bowtie with blue shirt and grey suit

Character, character character.  How dapper is the above groomsman in gingham material blue shirt and the pastel pink tie?

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events Ring Barer blue gangam and yellow bowtie outfit

This ring barer stole the show both down the aisle and at the reception.   His dark blue gingham material and pastel yellow bowtie are adorable, his hat precious, the bride's shoes he is holding, swoon!

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events bride with veil, bouquet wildflower pink and purples

The bride was smart to collaborate with Nina Kinkaid of Coco Rose Design.  The plethora of purple and fuchsia hued flowers in her bouquet produce a unique, interesting and textured focal piece.

Her bouquet cradles a myriad of flowers, including the desert-like thistle, stems of laic, alien-esque protea and a tropical phaleo orchids, all exuding a range of vibrant violet colors.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events bridesmaids purple dresses

The Bridesmaids bouquets were lighter in color and opposing colors of both their dresses as well as the bridal bouquet.  This play on colors bring three dimensions and balance which compliment each other.

Lastly let's talk about Gainey Vineyard (click the following link to see rental information about this Wine Country wedding location venue). This vineyard is surrounded by a stunning backdrop ideal for hosting a picturesque outdoor wedding ceremony and reception.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events vineyard backdrop

The majestic trees and vineyard walks are romantic.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felic Events bride and groom in vineyard

#FeliciFrill: We ensure that we have time for a couple's sunset walk with their photographer.  Most of the time these end up being the best pictures.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events couple vineyard backdrop

This scene rings a true, untouched West of Santa Ynez.

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events wooden tables at vineyard

The well manicured lawn and vineyard backdrop is ideal for outdoor receptions.

The string lights are a must have!

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events venue at night string lights

You and your guests will definitely need them at night.

Ciao Aline and Brian!  They lived Felici Ever after!

J Wiley Photography Gainey Vineyard Wedding Felici Events Grand Exit Idea

The Cherry-On-Top of this Felici Wedding is the A-Team of wedding vendors at a #FeliciFied event venue and wedding location.

Coordinator Felici Events

Flowers Coco Rose Designs

Lighting Ambient Event Design

Music / Cocktails & Reception DJ Patrick

Catering and Cake Lorraine Lim Catering

Rentals Ventura Party Rentals

Photography J Wiley Photography

Felicified Unique Furniture Rentals For Any Event

Felici Events Presents: Felicified Unique Furniture Rentals

Looking for new ways to spice up your parties? Here is a Felicified way to do it!

Our team here at Felici Events is always thinking of new and creative ideas that will make our special events stand out from the rest. Luckily, we discovered PBG Imports. They specialize in exclusive and unique Lounge Furniture, Props, Décor, and LED Designed Products for any and all types of events. Their signature items include genuine cork furniture and LED water bubble high top tables and coffee tables. PBG Imports also supply sports stools and sports furniture ideal for sports-themed events. Their company prides itself on having the most distinctive designs that will captivate all guests. Visit them on the web at PBGImports.com and contact them at info@PBGImports.com or 888.354.4523.

Here are some items that caught our eye!

corkcollection

corktable

These wine cork inspired items are perfect for wine tastings, cocktail parties, winery weddings, and basically any event looking for a rustic vibe. #WineWednesday

bubbletower

table

These water bubble products would look great at bar and bat-mitzvahs, cocktail parties, dances, and many other exciting and futuristic events. Guests will be amazed by the glowing water effects these pieces give off. We love how PBG's items are not only furniture but artwork and conversation starters.

soccerball

footballstool

PBG's sports inspired products are perfect for all the sports fans out there looking to throw amazing parties. These items will fit perfectly into birthday parties, sporting events, bachelor parties, and so much more. #SuperBowl2015

Trying to get creative with your decor ideas? Don't forget to visit PBG Imports and to keep an eye out for future Felici Events blog posts.

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Felici Holidays and New Year From Santa Barbara!

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Christmas Party Decor, Food + Beverage Felici Events Style

Impromptu Felici-Hour Holiday Party

Last night marked the 8th year that Zohe Felici - Event Party Planner Extraordinaire - hosted a pre #paradeoflights gathering at Casa Felici.  The only difference, is that this year she had been traveling, and decided at the last minute to continue and host this ongoing tradition.  With only a few hours to put the "Felici-Hour" together, before she and her friends would head to see the boat parade and fireworks, Zohe dug into her impromptu skills to make this Felici Event effortless for her and a success for guests.

Decor:

There were four decor elements Zohe focused on to put together a holiday table-scape on her dining table.  She chose items (from storage) that accented height and interest to the table without overkill:

• 1.5 foot tall Pier One Imports wooden snowman she fell in love with a few years back
• wooden 3 tier Swedish Christmas Candle Carousel from Ikea - Zohe grew up with one and was always mesmerized by how they work using only candle heat to spin around….
• mini Christmas tree gifted to her by the amazing and talented floral designer Kellye Clifford of Precious and Blooming at a recent coffee meeting.  This became a double-use item (Zohe loves two-fers, see more below).
• red table runner from Cost Plus World Market

Felici Events Christmas Table Set Up

Favors and Entertainment:

As mentioned, the tree became a two-fer.  See it plain and simple on the image below and to the left.  At the foot of the tree are mini ornaments (from Ikea).  Zohe had no time to do this task, therefore she created this very fun activity for the kids (adults got involved too).  Zohe believes that interactive projects at parties are a great form of entertainment, so this was a no-brainer.  Voila, on the right is the finished product created by Zohe's almost-niece Malia.  Malia was so proud of her creation and keepsake!

Felici Events Kids Activity for a Holiday or Christmas Party

Food and Beverage:

Once the table was set, Zohe, being the Italian that she is, moved on to feeding her guests.  With a time limit, she incorporated both home-made and store-bought items for nibbles.  From clockwise we have:

• pizzette and arancini (placed in a 350 degree oven for about 14 minutes) from Trader Joe's
• gorgonzola cheese dip with crostini (easy as 1-2-3 recipe, ready in less than 5 minutes)*
• brussels sprouts with a spicy sweet glaze (easy as 1-2-3 recipe, ready in less than 5 minutes)*
• mulled wine (easy as 1-2-3 recipe, ready in less than 5 minutes) for adults*
• hot apple cider (from Trader Joe's) for kids or add Rum for an adult beverage

Felici Events Easy Food and Beverage for a Christmas or Holiday Party

 Gorgonzola Cheese Dip w/ Crostini

• 1 x 8 oz. container Gorgonzola Cheese
• 1/3 c. whole milk
• 1/8 c. half & half
  • microwave for 2 minutes
  • stir
  • microwave another 2 minutes
  • stir
  • serve with home-made or pre-made buttered bread crostini

Brussels Sprouts in a Spicy Sweet Glaze

• 1 x 10 oz. package shaved fresh brussels sprouts (produce section)
• 2 T. butter, salted
• 1.5 T. agave nectar (or honey)
• 1 - 2 t. crushed red pepper
  • in large pan melt butter on medium
  • once melted increase temperature to high / medium high
  • add brussels sprouts and caramelize
  • stir occasionally so it does not burn, but let it brown
  • turn off burner
  • add agave nectar (feel free to add more to taste)
  • add crushed red pepper  (feel free to add more to taste)

Mulled Wine

• 2 btls. red wine (preferably Merlot or something with hints of cherry)
• 1 btl. white wine (preferably Chardonnay)
• 1.5 c. sweet vermouth
• 1.5 c. brandy
• 1 fresh squeezed orange
• 1/4 c. brown sugar
• 2 sticks cinnamon
• 1/4 T. cardamom
• 1/4 T. fresh graded nutmeg
• 5-6 whole cloves
  • put all ingredients in a large pot bring to a simmer
  • lower temperature to medium / low for 30 minutes
  • keep on warm until guests arrive or it is all sucked down!
  • pour into festive holiday mugs

Finally, she set her Spotify to the Michael Bublé Christmas Music Station, and there you have it.  How to prepare for and host a holiday happy-hour party for 8 in less than 1 hour.  The most time-consuming part of the preparation was the trip to Trader Joe's to purchase the food…..HA!

Happy Holidays Everyone!  We hope you celebrate safely with friends and loved ones in 2014 with these unique, #felicified and festive Christmas decor and food ideas inspired by #anotherfelicievent

Tented Birthday Celebration Dinner Party

Felici Events Presents: Event & Wedding Planning 101:

Weather: Plan A, B and C

Today we are relishing a bit of (very welcome) rain at Felici Headquarters.  A wet and rainy day like today reminds me of a Felici Event we produced, exactly nine months ago (plus one day), where an uninvited guest showed up - DOWNPOUR!

Last March, I had the honor of working with a Felici Client on her 50th birthday celebration.  The guest of honor wanted to host thirty close friends to a special (not your traditional Saturday night potluck) dinner party at her home.  The lovely clients' home is amidst Mission Canyon, Santa Barbara.  The first time I drove up to her home, I found myself in a gorgeous cul-de-sac type driveway that led to her front door.  There is lush landscaping and a working fountain encompassing it.  "What a magical spot!" I thought to myself.

The client's vision of design was a blend of romance and Mediterranean.  Hanging candle votives, fruits, herbs and vegetables inclusive in the centerpieces, candlelight and an elegantly neutral palate of linens, chairs and table top set up.

Felici Events Wedding Planner place setting

During our meeting, and walk thru of the potential spaces for dinner, I shared with the client that the house was not conducive to accommodate all guests seated together for a plated dinner.  I reminded the client that she hired me to make this night special, and it needed to set other (informal) dinner parties apart.  I suggested the use of the driveway as the dinner space.  Once I proposed to her the vision and schematics of a 'reveal' to the tented dinner area, the client fell in love with the idea!

The planning of the dinner event took place the months of January and February.  Santa Barbara provided beautiful weather and sunny skies every day leading up to the March 1st weekend.  Regardless of our gorgeous weather (common along the American Riviera) my experience as a seasoned event and wedding planner is to produce three plans. This time it had to do with rain:

Plan A - a tented event, in case of rain (the first week of March usually produces precipitation)

Plan B - great weather with no tent (al fresco)

Plan C - an indoor and less formal dinner in case of a torrential downpour.

Instantly I brought on the talents of Coco Rose Design and The Tent Merchant as the team to help me create Ann's dream into a reality.  The Tent Merchant's octagonal tent would fit perfectly in the driveway and easily accommodate 30 guests.  We brainstormed a couple of different layout options, and settled on having votives hanging from the center of the tent and the tables parallel to the tent walls, in an octagonal shape (single sided facing in) so all could see each other.  PERFECT!

The caterer, Chef Robin Goldstein, was a gem to work with!  She created an out of this world menu consisting of farm-to-table fresh foods, with authentic mediterranean preparation.  All the key vendors were in place and so the party begins!

Felici Events Birthday inside tent

Felici Events Birthday mediterranean Centerpieces

You guessed it.  The week-end of the birthday party, there is a torrential downpour!  We experienced heavy rains all morning (there is even a YouTube video of the Santa Barbara Harbor being overcome by large waves) throughout the Southern California area.  I had not seen flash floods since my days in Dallas, Texas

The morning of the party, I drove to the house and found the tent (which was set up the day before) to have rivers running thru it!  The client, understandably stressed, expressed disappointment with the turn of events.*   I reassured her that the dinner would be perfect, and I would do everything in my power to ensure vision of the event.  I urged her to go her hair and make up appointments, and enjoy a day of pampering.  It took some time to console and comfort her, but reluctantly on her way she went escorted with a gal pal.

Mid afternoon, when the florist arrived, we looked at the weather radar which showed patterns of the rain dissipating around 4 p.m.  Guests would not be invited into the dinner tent until 6:30 p.m.  Could we pull it off?  The florist and caterer both confirmed that if by 5:45 p.m. there was no chance of holding the dinner outside, we would be able to move to plan C - placing design items and set a buffet in the living and dining areas for an indoor affair.

I was in the pouring rain for hours, successfully producing make-shift gutters (my alter ego is MacGyver) to deter rain around rain and not thru the tent.  Once complete I swept, mopped and dry vacuumed the inside of the tent.  The threatening red marks on the weather radar, eventually turned to light green specs.  The rain turned to sprinkles, and by 5:15 p.m. all was dry inside the canopy.  With all hands on deck and teamwork, we were ready to go by 6:00 p.m. The heaters in the tent warmed up the space, and combined with the candle light, gorgeous table decor and background music created the most romantic and cozy dinner setting I have produced outdoors after a downpour.

My favorite part is this unique and personalized touch of a play of MadLibs.  We called it "AnnLib" and it substituted a guest book.  The Felici Events graphics team created a cartoon of the client using her picture and added it to a customized MadLib for guests to fill out.

Felici Events creative guest book Mad Libs Cartoon

Felici Events unique party idea madlibs at each place setting

Felici Events wedding planning outside tent looking in

The birthday gal came to take a sneak peek before we invited guests to the 'grand reveal' of dinner, and tears of joy came to her eyes.  She was beyond ecstatic!  This party was not only #anotherfelicievent but one of the most rewarding moments in my career.  We really do turn dreams into a reality (thank you mother nature for keeping me on my toes).  Needles to say hostess and guests had a wonderful time and we created memories for all.  #anotherfelicievent

Felici Events decor table setting details Collage

*Felici Fact: tenting will keep rain from falling on your head, but not water from coming up below.

Santa Barbara Wedding Miguel + Matt

Same Sex Elopement by Felici Events

Santa Barbara Courthouse & Sunken Gardens

When I wear my wedding planning hat, I have to say that I LOVE love…..I mean it!  Hearing stories of how couples meet, seeing their vision come to fruition, and then ogling the moments in time that the wedding photographer has captured.

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding cute grooms

Matt and Miguel are no exception.  We had about two weeks to plan their elopement without meeting the happy-couple and get all their wedding details into play.  When I met with them the night before their wedding, I fell in love with these two, and their story.

Miguel and Matt met at Miguel's place of work, a hair salon in Phoenix.  Matt had been a loyal customer for years, and Miguel had just moved to town, and recently started working at the salon.  Matt says his regular stylist was handling his appointment as usual, but he could not keep his eyes off Miguel.  It was love at first sight.  On his next appointment, Matt requested Miguel as his hair dresser. Needless to say, Matt is now loyal to his stylist and getting the best haircuts ever.

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding dog ring barer

The couple was on the fence about having their dog be in the wedding or at the Santa Barbara Courthouse and Sunken Gardens, and  I confidently told them that they should have a ring bearer, and that the pup would be fine inside the courthouse and around the grounds.  I had not event met the pooch, but I am glad they took me up on my advice, who doesn't love that cute boxer mug!  The nice thing about Santa Barbara is that it is extremely dog friendly, so that makes it perfect for dog-lovers and owners like myself.

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding elopement

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding elpoement posed shots with dog

In retrospect, I think the pup stole the show.

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding groom ceremony

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding grooms and dog

In these picture I love the boutonnières and ties that oppose each other.  Matt sent me images of the ties beforehand so that I could match the ribbon with the florist.  Thank you to Kaleidoscope Flowers for doing a great job!

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding grooms exchanging rings

Seriously, the image below looks as if there is a fake backdrop, but NOPE, Santa Barbara and the American Riviera is that gorgeous! I live it every day and appreciate the beauty and backdrops this town offers.

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding grooms view from the top

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding kiss on the cheek

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding ring exchange

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding showing off rings

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding steps and sunken garden dog ring barer

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding tower top

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding walking down the hallway

In this image, I get a kick out of  the wedding bands.  I had no idea the formed a heart until I saw them take this picture.  What a great personalization and detail to come full circle about LOVING love!  Congratulations Miguel and Matt!

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding wedding rings

A huge thank you to Amy at Vita-Bella Photography for these amazing images.

Mr. Towbes Birthday Celebration at Bacara Resort and Spa

Felici Events Produces an Entertaining Brunch Celebration

Felici Events was honored to have been part of another grand celebration for the accomplishments, love and birthday celebration of Mr. Towbes, Santa Barbara's own "It's a Wonderful Life" (Zohe produced Mr. Towbes 80th at Fess Parker Doubletree)

This time, we had a double whammy with putting this event together at Bacara Resort and Spa.  Everything is grand at Bacara, event the entrance, impressive!

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th Bacara Entry

The gracious and gorgeous Anne, Mr. Towbes wife, was instrumental in creating this event and guiding Felici Events to a personalized affair!  Here is the happy couple just minutes before guests arrived.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th Anne and Michael

We created life-size cutouts of the guest of honor and placed them around the resort for guests to take pictures with.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th standing with lifesize

Being Mr. Santa Barbara created a receiving line which showed exactly that!  Everyone who is everyone came to wish him a happy birthday!

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th greeting guests

The guest of honor is an avid tennis player, so the talents of Louloudi Design incorporated this hobby into the centerpieces.  They looked lovely on La Tavola Linens with linear definitions.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th table set up floral orange linen

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th Rotunda Room Bacara

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th tennis racket signage

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th floral centerpiece with tennis ball

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th wide lens orange table decor

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th Rotunda Terrace Orange Decor

After brunch, we moved the 275 person event to the ballroom, where we had four performances or acts celebrating Mr. Towbes and his love and support of the arts and music as well as other surprises and personalizations celebrating his interests and  accomplishments.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th ladies kissing cheeks lifesize

The Towbes Group Inc. is an award-winning and respected construction, development and asset management company.  We had a life-size cutout of the honoree supporting the Cottage Hospital Project.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th Lifesize Architect

The honoree is also known as the owner and Chairman of the Board of Montecito Bank and Trust.  Here we produced a 'money tree' with oversized ficus and a Towbes Bucks garland.  Did you know people have been known to try to use the Towbes Bucks in town?!

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th Money Tree

We set the ballroom into dinner theatre style small tables so all guests could see the performances.  At each table were programs, popcorn bowls and a low cylinder of floating candles wrapped in blueprints of the Cottage Hospital Project.  The red pens, personalized with Mr. Towbes Still Swingin' at 85' were party favors representative of Mr. Towbes use of them for using in his editing and return correspondence.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th ballroom table set up

The State Street Ballet danced while guests arrived into the ballroom.  Mr. Towbes is a longtime support and passionate of this local professional ballet company.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th state street ballet

During the brunch and performances, the Felici Events Team gathered all the 'momentos of Mr. Towbes' (the invitation asked guests to bring those in lieu of gifts), and produced two scrap books.  Carrie, Mr. Towbes daughter and Anne presented this surprise gift to the man of the hour.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th presenting album

Let there be cake!  We replicated the invitation cover picture of the the man of the hour playing tennis onto a sheet cake.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th birthday cake

Hope you made a wish!  Happy Birthday Mr. Towbes.  You are truly a genuine, altruistic, generous and kind man, and Santa Barbara is lucky to have you as a leader and philanthropist in our community!

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th blowing out candles

I saw the sign.....

Felici Events Tips for Wedding Planning and Event Production - Signage

Signage is not something that clients may think of doing, however, signage can be important for any event.  Being a wedding planner I ensure we take the event to the last detail, and signage can be one of the most important dotted i's and crossed t's.

It can direct vendors to their load-in / load-out and designated parking areas, or  keep out of town guests from getting lost.  The best part is that signage is not only informative, it can be fun, simple, and a cost effective way to pull your theme together.

Here are a few chalkboard signs Felici Events created for a recent Santa Barbara wedding.  The client had old windows they had found, and we chalked it up with chalk paint, and custom made signage for their wedding at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum.

The center pane is a replica of the logo on their invitations and save the dates.  Branding a wedding is something Felici Events find to be important and creates a unique element.

This entry sign, welcomed guests and let them know they were at the right location.  Guests even used it as a photo op as they arrived at the site and got off the trolley.

entry sign on window chalk board by Felici Events

This sign is the bar menu letting guests know the signature drinks, wines and beers offered at the we ding.  Notice their initials on the bottom right square, we copied this from their wedding invitations, save the dates, etc.

The sign below is near and dear to my heart, because the client is now using it as  a focal point at their home, and have placed it above their bar.  They loved it so much, it has become artwork……

bar menu on window chalk board Felici Events

This sign we made to let everyone know of the instagram handle for the wedding. (Felici advice: I do suggest checking a hashtag first to ensure it is what you want to appear for pictures guests tag……) #andernathy

instagram sign at escort card table by felici events

This chalk board is the program for today's Felici Events wedding of #paigeandtedwed .  We used the same font as on the invitations and will have it as guests enter the ceremony.

wedding program on chalk board by felici events

If you are more of a clean line black and white person you can download images online!

or personalize signs to your theme! Whether it is a specific branding or look you are envisioning from playful, rustic or classic, signs are the perfect way to express your personality!

Signage Bar

Signage Mr and Mrs

Signage Classic

Signage Beach

Signage Elegant

Once in an event, signs help let guests know what is going on and where to find what they are looking for

Signage Bathrooms

or a way to share tidbits of trivia, making for personalization....

Whatever the case, have fun with it!

I do. It Differently.

Pouffed, wrapped, adorned, or tucked...veils don't always have to be what you'd expect!

There are so many different ways to wear your veil for your special day or to not wear one!

Veils-Large and Elegant

Veils-Short Elegant

You can wear a traditional white veil and pouf it out to make it large and elegant or you can wear a short white one instead You can always mess around with tule and make a simple bow

Alternative Veil

Veils-Orange Flower

You can also opt for the traditional white color but wear it like a headpiece instead Adorn it by using lace or add color with some flowers

Flower Crown Bright

Flower Crown Organic

Flower Crown

Flower Crown Simple

Hair Flower Jewels

Elle.com also offers an insight on veils by offering 9 Gorgeous Alternatives to the traditional veil including wearing a flower crown and scattered jewels

For more extravagant alternative bridal veils BeSpoke Brides has their top 13 list or you can check out Bridal Headpieces on Pinterest!

Felici Events Presents - Santa Barbara's Third Annual Halloween Costume Party

Voodoo Lounge

INSANITY under the STARS…

…….Rooftop HALLOWEEN DANCE PARTY!

October 31, 2014

One week left until Felici Event’s annual Halloween Costume Dance Party at the Canary Rooftop.

• Buy your tickets via Nightout.com using this link to experience “Insanity Under the Stars”!
• $45 pre-sale, based on availability.
• Pre-purchase your ticket and receive $5 off by typing FIVEOFF in the promo code bar (based on availability, not available at the door)
• Like our Voodoo Lounge Facebook Page for a chance to win free tickets!!

DJ Scott Topper is sure to get everyone's booty moving to the rooftop and then the dance floor!  Find ideas for your Halloween Costume here, get your dancing shoes on, and come join us in all the fun.

Kelsey Crews Photography will be taking pictures of you and your friends in costumes!

Felici Events Costume Halloween 2013 Voodoo

Felici Events Halloween Voodoo 2013 Costume

Felici Events Voodoo Halloween Costume

OTHER FUN STUFF HAPPENING THAT NIGHT:

• Kappa Pisco’s shot ghouls are serving up some witch’s brew, pisco tastings and gifting schwag and promotional items.
• $$$$ Costume Contest $$$$ 250 cash prize for the winner and Dinner for 2 at Finch and Fork Restaurant  for the second place
• Haunted Action Photo Booth
• Voodoo Altar
• Dancing Zombies Welcome!
• Go-go dancers
• Surprise Entertainment

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

DETAILS

Canary Hotel 31 W Carrillo St. Santa Barbara, CA, 93101 Friday, October 31, 2014 9:00pm to 1:00am PDT

*MUST BE 21 OR OLDER TO ATTEND. Any ticket holder unable to present valid identification indicating that they are at least 21 years of age will not be admitted to this event and will not be eligible for a refund. Rain or Shine. Tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE. No Ins & Outs

Enjoy this video of Felici Events' Halloween Dance Rooftop Party from last year - created by Kelsey Crews Photography

Felici Events Presents Three Holiday Parties

Holiday Party Ideas

As we quickly approach the holiday season, Felici Events brings you ideas for your private or corporate party!

Inspired by Biz Bash: The Holiday Issue we share three seasonal holiday themes sure to please your guests!

Classic Holiday

Christmas Table

Take out your ornaments and red candles! Make your holiday parties with classic themes like the nutcracker or holiday movies and use traditional decorations to bring the joy of the season! Hang up lights, wreaths, and trees, feel free to add a pine cone or two in there. For food, you can make appetizers based off dinners such as a turkey cranberry crostini, chicken kebabs or pizza bites in traditional holiday shapes. Be sure to decorate your table with a classic gingerbread house!

Food Cutouts

Christmas Kebabs

Gingerbread House

Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland is a modern theme that looks elegant and transforms your venue into an entirely different place! With Disney's "Frozen" and ice being all the rage, having a winter wonderland themed party can be the perfect theme for your holiday party! Decorate with snowflakes, crystals, blue lights, crystals and silver decor.  Be sure to have a hot cocoa bar to warm your guests up!

Hot Cocoa Bar

Winter Wonderland Center Piece

Winter Lights

Try something innovative with live ice sculpting!

Live ice scultping

The Ice Beat Factory is an exciting performance ice show combining ice sculpting with live music.

Offbeat Bash

Many modern holiday parties are saying no to the traditional holiday themed parties and going for a more offbeat theme like a masquerade ball or as Biz Bash demonstrates, a circus theme.  Another theme idea could be a Brother's Grimm theme with Once Upon a Time, Grimm, and Disney's upcoming film, Into the Woods serving as inspiration. There's so many possibilities with this theme, guests can come dressed as their favorite fairy tale characters and the ideas for decorations are endless!

Fairy Tale Invitation

Fairy Tale Chandelier

Get creative with invitations to inspire guests and decorate with grand chandeliers to create a more spectacular fantasy!

Fairy Tale Center Pieces

Flower Centerpiece

Take inspiration from Brother's Grimm fairy tales for centerpieces such as a single rose or a candelabra!

Feel free to use a specific fairy tale or just combine them all to make an enchanted venue! Have some caramelized apples or Alice in Wonderland cake for dessert! Be sure to checkout Cody's Cocktails inspired by fairy tale creatures that are sure to be remembered at your holiday party! This one below is called "Maleficent" and contains black vodka, grape schnapps, and apple pucker!

Poison Apples

Maleficent cocktail

Whatever you decide for your theme, holiday parties should create a festive and joyous occasion!

Stress free holiday parties with Felici Events

The holidays parties are coming near

Don't stress yourself you need not fear

To the rescue we come to bring good cheer

We got you covered, Felici Events is here!

holiday_postcard_front

Felici Events is an upscale full service event planning company specializing in innovative parties from intimate soirees to grand-scale galas.

10% of the proceeds are donated to Teddy Bear Foundation or Unity Shoppe

Relieve your stress today and click here for more information!

For more tips for a less stressful holiday parties click here

(805)895-3402

3rd Annual Voodoo Lounge Halloween Dance Party

Felici Events & Scott Topper present:

VOODOO LOUNGE

INSANITY under the STARS...

...Rooftop HALLOWEEN DANCE PARTY!

Friday, October 31, 2014 - 9:00 pm to 1:00 am Featuring DJ Scott Topper   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eI2R6D13fD4   Canary Hotel, Downtown Santa Barbara 31 West Carrillo Street - $45 pre-sale, based on availability - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - $ $ $ Costume Contest $ $ $ 1st place - $250 CASH 2nd place - Brunch for 2 at Finch & Fork - Haunted Action Photo Booth - Voodoo Altar - Dancing Zombies Welcome! - Spirited Drink Specials

Receive $5 off admission October 1st through October 5th at 12:00am (one per person) 

Promo code: "5OFF"

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Check our Facebook page for promotional offers and contests to win free tickets!

Flutter Wedding Magazine Features Felici Events

It is truly an honor and it warms our hearts when Felici Event work is recognized by others aside from our clients!  We just received news that Felici Events was featured in Flutter Magazine's latest issue Summer Lovin'!  

Flutter Magazine highlights our first wedding of the year located at a private venue in Hollister Ranch.  The pictures can be found on page 87 of the magazine.  The theme of the wedding was ranch chic, with colors of green, white, and neural.  Could not have captured the beauty of the wedding without Willa Kveta Photography!

Hollister Ranch Wedding

Thank you again Flutter Magazine for displaying our talents! We so greatly appreciate it!

Classic Colors Orange and Teal at the Santa Barbara Zoo

Celebrating the anniversary of this WILD wedding of our #Felicified  Couple.

The details and colors of the wedding incorporated all elements, the bride's personality, bright colors of classic orange and teal, the beach, tropical foliage and the giraffes at the zoo.

~ ~ ~ ~

The ceremony took place at the Santa Barbara Yacht Club, where the Father of the Bride is a member and avid boatman.

Yacht club Weddign Ceremony orange accents felicievents.com

The bridesmaids bouquets were simple, vivid, orange tulips wrapped in teal ribbon.

tulip bridesmaid bouquet

The bridal bouquet made a statement with cascading white phalaenopsis orchids and touches of yellow ones.

cascading orchid bridal bouquet felicievents.com

The programs adorned with the orange and teal ribbon made it festive on the beach.

orange and teal wedding program felicievents.com

ADORABLE flower girl!  The bamboo basket brought texture and interest rather than a flower basket.

flower girl beach ceremony felicievents.com

The bright gerber daisies adorned the ends of the aisle.

orange wedding ceremony decor daisies felicievents.com

The first kiss as husband and wife under the billowing ceremony arch.

santa barbara beach ceremony orange and teal felicievents.com

The wedding party took the electric shuttle that runs up and down Cabrillo Boulevard from the ceremony to the reception at the Santa Barbara Zoo.

wedding party on the Santa Barbara electric trolley felicievents.com

Guests were greeted with an arch made of glass balls filled with fun orange flowers.

orange hanging decor wedding felicievents.com

A little touch of the zoo with the giraffe print escort cards placed in a 'sand box' and incorporating the beach ceremony

orange giraffe print escor cards in sand felicievents.com

Cocktail hour reception

orange cocktail hour decor felicievents.com

Dinner centerpieces with orange floral on a teal linen

orange and teal table set up santa barbara zoo felicievents.com

Reception layout at the top of the hill of the Santa Barbara Zoo.  Spectacular tropic foliage was a must have for the bride, so the location we chose, the Santa Barbara Zoo was perfect for that.

orange and teal table decor Felici Events

Full reception set up.  How cute are these kids tables with candy incorporated as the centerpieces.

teal table top decor kids table felicievents.com

A visit to the giraffes.

santa barbara zoo wedding with giraffes felicievents.com

The candy bar incorporated blue candy on a teal and orange tabletop.

teal candy bar with orange and teal decor felicievents.com

orange and teal candy bar decor felicievents.com

The wedding cake was covered with chocolate and sat under a bamboo alter with orchids and a paper lantern.

wedding cake chocolate with orange decor felicievents.com

The couple's first dance. Notice the fun teal ribbon and seashell ornaments hanging from the string lights.

first dance with paper lanterns felicievents.com

Fun surfboard wedding favors made everyone's night as a wedding favor and parting gift.

surfboard cookie wedding favors felicievents.com

Santa Barbara Sunset at the Zoo with string and uplights felicievents.com

What a wonderful evening it was, with the string lights, colors, and foliage.  

As professional event planners it is important for Felici Events to connect with the clients as well as the vendors we work with.  The team that helped Felici Events put together this event was no exception, thanks for helping create #anotherfelicievent

Floral - NLC Productions

Lighting - Bellavista Designs

Rentals  and linens Classic Party Rentals

Photography - BB Photo

Catering - Zoo Catering by Rincon

Unique Bridal Registry Ideas

This is not the Dark Ages - Millennium Couples Request Unique Registry Ideas

I am sure it is no surprise that in these progressive times,  couples move in together, live together for a few years, get engaged and then get married.  Most of my engaged clients request non-traditional, unique registries for their engagement and wedding, experiences not clutter.

Felici Events has opened up the Felici Files to share with you six  websites that offer newly engaged couples unique and non-traditional registries that do just that.  From wine lovers to those wanting to purchase their new home, to the philanthropists and small business supporters.  Below are some ideas for wedding couples to register at.

• BottleNotes (http://www.bottlenotes.com)

  • Users can sign up to create their "own unique registry full of amazing wines." Bottlenotes' experts can be contacted to provide users with insight on starting their own wine collection.

• Etsy Registry (https://www.etsy.com/registry)

  • Handmade items and supporting independent artists and small business

• I Do Foundation (https://www.idofoundation.org/)

  • Couples can create a charity registry that allows guests to directly support charitable causes by way of a secure online donation.

• Knack Registry (https://knackregistry.com/)

  • allows couples to register for items not available at retailers in addition to items that are. It also allows them to register for experiences.

    • For example: if you just moved and are looking to do some landscaping you add that as a registry item.

• The Honeymoon

  • Honeyfund

  • Honeyluna

• Down Payment Dreams (http://www.downpaymentdreams.com/)

makes it possible for guests to contribute to couples who wish to "collect down payment funds" for a house.

Engagement Pictures Slideshow Santa Barbara

Same Sex Couple Wedding Engagement Pictures

The talents of Willa Kveta took one of our Felicified couples trotting around Santa Barbara to capture amazing engagement pictures.  We started at 9 a.m. in the Funk Zone and made our way to the Lark, a few blocks over to the Wharf and West Beach, as well as downtown on overpasses.  

We love the different backdrops and interesting three-dimensional settings captured to adorn these gorgeous guys. Santa Barbara is conducive to an array of settings within blocks from each other.

Seriously, could they be any more awesome!  It's like watching a Ben Affleck and Matt Damon photo shoot.  These guys are gorgeous, sweet and fun!

Congratulations Corey and Alex!  We can't wait for your BIG day!

NOTE: The Felici Events wedding planner team finds it imperative that engagement pictures happen with your photographer at some point of the wedding.  It allows for relationships to be created, a rapport both between the couple and the photographer as well as a comfort level.  IT WILL SHOW on your wedding day! We will be sure to post photos of the wedding day to prove that to you!

Indian Summer Ceremony Featured in Santa Barbara Magazine

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Thanks to Santa Barbara Magazine for spotlighting the wedding of Megan McRoskey and Geno St. John III. The magazine celebrates Santa Barbara’s rich and colorful lifestyle with award-winning editorial content on Santa Barbara’s people, homes and gardens, architecture, food and wine, history, arts, escape destinations, and more.

MEGAN WAS THE girl next door before becoming Geno’s high school sweetheart and then—ten years later—his fiancée after a winter proposal in Mammoth. WEARING A MONIQUE LHUILLIER GOWN, the bride exchanged vows with the groom in an Indian summer ceremony at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church before a Felici Events-designed reception at Birnam Wood Golf Club. THE NEWLYWEDS HONEYMOONED in Moore’s Island and Bora Bora, where they kayaked, paddle-boarded, and did scuba diving.

The Reception Venue

Birnam Wood Golf Club is a private golf club in Montecito, California. Membership is by invitation only. It is located on East Valley Road.

“THE BEST SHORT COURSE I HAVE EVER BUILT”: —ROBERT TRENT JONES, 1968

Event Planner Information

Felici Events offers full top-tier services. Packages include wedding design and coordination. Felici Events is committed to providing the utmost in service to its clients. Expect expert advice, harmonious design, and the opportunity to discuss all aspects of wedding planning.

Event Planner’s "Good Fortune" makes local news


We have the best clients ever! Thank you cards never go out of style.

Thank you to society writer Lorraine D. Wilson for the article, “Good Fortune” rich in history. Lorraine’s article was published in her Sunday On the Town section in the Santa Barbara News Press, which covers the non-profit sector and who’s who of Santa Barbara.

Thank you to Kerry Methner for the article, Good Fortune Fundraiser Celebrates Santa Barbara's Asian American Heritage. Kerry's article was published on page 34 in the June 27th issue of CASA Magazine.

The “Good Fortune” fundraiser, by the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation, recognized the important role Chinese and Japanese communities played in Santa Barbara’s history.

During the late-nineteenth and twentieth-centuries the area in and around the Santa Barbara Presidio was a unique and culturally rich neighborhood. Chinese and Japanese communities coexisted side by side, offering thriving businesses within buildings that are now historic landmarks. The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation honors and preserves this history in El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park. In 2009 “Sharing Our Common Ground” explored Santa Barbara’s Asian Americans history. - Santa Barbara Independent

To see photos by Clint Weisman and Dr. Paul Mori, click the link and view the album, “Good Fortune” from the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation’s Flickr account.

Felici Events is a first-class event design and production company based in Santa Barbara, California that produces events like the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation’s “Good Fortune” gala. Contact us if you are planning an upcoming fundraising event and looking for a company that listens to and expertly translates its client’s visions into reality.