Wining and Dining - Get to Know On the Dot's in-house Wine Expert

The holiday season has officially ended, and we at On the Dot have participated in our share of holiday parties this season! Holiday season, is of course, engagement season! We hope all of you brides out there got the ring (and the man) of your dreams! ; )

While January is usually a slow month for most folks, it's a busy one for brides who have set their wedding dates for this upcoming spring, summer, and even fall! On the Dot and their clients are occupied with their brides by helping them select anything from their ideal florist to their perfect photographer! In honor of the new year and the start of the upcoming wedding season...On the Dot is offering a limited time offer of 25% off day of services for weddings in January through April. Book us for day of coordination and forget about the stress! : )

For the month of January, I'd like to introduce our first in a series of blogs featuring Kevin, On the Dot's in-house wine consultant. His tips are not only great for hosting your in-home parties, but also fabulous if you are one of the lucky few that have chosen a venue that allows you to bring in your own wine and champagne.
Kevin is a good friend of ours and an amazing wine connoiseur. Our wine expert spends his weekends at the "office" (or rather, any local wine shop) researching his craft...and serving as the leader of a wine club he founded in Orange County. ; ) He's already provided wine pairing recommendations for several weddings, and the demand for his services continually grow. You can read his blog, Bread & Water, at http://nervouskitchen.wordpress.com/. Kevin was nice enough to answer some of our questions.

When did your appreciation for wine start?  

I don’t think I really appreciated  wine until roughly ten years ago when I  enrolled in a "Wines Of the World" extension course at the  University of California in Irvine.   Our instructor was a lot of fun and his enthusiasm for the subject was infectious.  That was when I started to understand wine as an accompaniment or enhancement to a  meal, rather than just an alternative to beer or spirits.

What are your favorite wine varietals and why?

That’s a tough question, because there are too many varietals, too many geographic regions growing world class wine and too many good winemakers.  Ultimately, I have to look at this subjectively and say in the white category, I love Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand and Albarino from Spain.  They are both very unique white wines.  On the red side of things, I really enjoy a Pinot Noir from Oregon, or a Syrah from the Central Coast of California.  Also, I love Malbecs from Argentina and Cabernet Sauvignon from NapaValley.  I’m excluding favorite wine blends and thus I haven’t really talked about Bordeauxor red wines from Tuscany.    As for why I like these, I guess it brings back good memories of a dinner I had or the company I drank the wine with.

For brides that don't know that much about wine, what are your  recommendations for a red wine and a white wine that would go with just about everything?

I think you want to have the combination of an elegant, versatile and cost-friendly wine.  Elegant, because you want your guests to say “Mmmm. This  is good wine!”   Versatile, because you want something which will taste good with what you’re serving your guests for lunch or dinner.  Cost-friendly, because you really shouldn’t be worried about the wine overly impacting your wedding budget.  As a result, I’m always inclined to recommend a Riesling or an unoaked Chardonnay for white wine, because they fit these categories.  Pinot Noir,  Barbaresco from Italy and a French Gamay from the Beaujolais region of France are also versatile reds.

For brides who are holding weddings that are more ethnic in nature,  perhaps a Chinese wedding or Indian wedding, what would you recommend that they pair with their food?

The type of food served offers really fun pairings.  Both types of food benefit from a Riesling or Gewurztraminer as far as good white wines.   Zinfandel is a robust and slightly spicy red varietal which is very successful with heartier dishes.

 What's the difference between Champagne, sparkling wine, and prosecco?

The difference is primarily geographic. Champagne is made in a region of Franceof the same name.  Only wines from this region can legally be called “Champagne.”  “Prosecco” hales from Italyand is named after the grape from which it is made.  “Cava” is a name given to sparkling wines from Spain. “Sparkling wine” is what you name bubbly from places where there is no geographic designation. California and Oregon make world class sparkling wine.

For brides that decide to go the more casual route in cuisine, say a barbeque or comfort food, what would be the best wine to serve with that type of food and what brands would you recommend that would be at a reasonable price?

You definitely don’t want to invest in a complicated, high end wine, because the subtleties in flavors in these bottles will be lost when paired with a burger or with ribs.  It’s generally a good idea with casual lunches and dinners to get wines which emphasize fruit.  In wine lingo, they’re called “fruit bombs.” It’s difficult to give one or two suggestions, because of the variety of food and wine combinations.   One recommendation is to look in the Southern Hemisphere.  For example, Argentina produces an amazing white wine varietal called Torrontes which is aromatic and refreshing.  Most wines retail for less than $15 a bottle. Australia is well known for producing Semillon, which goes great with vegetables and salad. Again, you can find relatively inexpensive wines.  Chilean red wines like Carmenere ar e an even better value.  You can find excellent Carmenere which goes exceptionally well with hamburgers at $10 or less.

Thanks for stopping in visiting with us at On the Dot Event Planning! We hope to feature Kevin in future blogs. Please send us your wine related questions to info@onthedoteventplanning.com and we would be happy to help you pick the best wine pairing for your wedding menu!

Cheers!
-Angie

"It's Showtime!" - Amy and Young - October 29, 2011

On Saturday, October 29, 2011, Amy and Young celebrated their marriage with a traditional Chinese banquet reception at 888 Seafood Restaurant (a San Gabriel institution). However, the reception was probably the most traditional part of the evening's events, because the 430 guests that were lucky to attend their reception were treated not only to fabulous dinner, but a great show..and no I'm not talking about the entertainment they hired. ; )

I like to begin where they started, which was 13 years ago in a courtyard outside a dormitory at San Jose State University. They started out as friends, but Young always knew a good thing when he saw one. After years of platonic friendship, the pair finally found themselves both in the Southern California area and both needing a roommate...and after getting over some initial fears of losing a great friendship for a chance at a great relationship, Amy and Young fell in love. =)

Of course who would expect any less? Amy is the quintessential low maintenance, go with the flow kind of girl with a great head on her shoulders...a kind of girl that every guy dreams about...and Young? Well, he's determined, kind, and a gentleman through and through. They are in my eyes, a "power couple" or in maybe Young's words, they are "Yamy" (a combination of Young & Amy). ; )

So on the night of October 29, 2011, "Yamy" treated their guests to lobster, duck, and other delights common of a Chinese banquet, and photo booth outfitted with funny costumes (courtesy of Herman Au and his group at Herman Au Photography).  Everyone was having a blast eating, drinking, and taking silly photos with their friends. During the reception, the DJ even sang a couple of tunes.

Photo booth complete with costumes (Herman Au Photography)

However, it wasn't the DJ that got the crowd going that evening...

Mother and Father of the Groom:

 

Members of the wedding party:

Moments after the parents, groomsmen, and bridesmaids, were announced by the DJ during the beginning of the reception, the groom proudly strutted into the reception hall to the song "Sweet Child of Mine" by Guns and Roses. Donning a gold championship wrestling belt and a pair of shades, the groom (the ultimate showman) got the crowd going with his gratuitous arm flexing and confident swagger.

Following behind him was his "personal assistant" to help him take off the massive wrestling belt around his waist and to hold it up for the groom so he could check out his reflection before putting on his dinner coat. The cheers that were heard in that room were deafening. We at On the Dot were so surprised by this "grand entrance" we actually forgot to document it on camera! We were in too much awe, and we have Young to thank for that! =)

Bride and Groom:

The rest of the evening was a breeze, from their first dance to "Somewhere Only We Know" by Keane, to the customary cutting of the cake, tossing of the bouquet, and removal of the garter. The bride looked amazing that evening. Hair and make-up was professionally done for the women in the bridal party by Susie Chhuor and her team of experts, and the flowers were gorgeously arranged by the folks at Commerce Flowers.

First dance:

Sharing some wedding cake:

It was a pleasure witnessing this couple take their next steps into married life!

Here are some shots from their wedding for you to enjoy and hopefully draw some inspiration from.

Wedding cake (Diamond Bakery)

 Chinese style guest book:

Photo area for guests of the bride and groom:

Small head table arrangement:

Manzanita tree with red and gold flowers (a must for the groom):

Large head table arrangement:

Bridal Bouquet:

 Bridesmaid's bouquet:

Simple centerpiece:

We at On the Dot Event Planning wish Amy and Young many years of happiness!!

Signing off for now....

-Angie

The Marriage of Amy and Young

I'd love to take a moment and reflect on how much I truly love this job. I've had the pleasure of meeting a couple about to embark on a lifetime partnership on Saturday, October 29, 2011. Amy and Young have been dating for a long time and after a long engagement, they will be celebrating their marriage with 500 guests.

I can't wait to see the bride and the groom on their wedding day, and share in the happiness that they share together. I just finished working on their guest book, where I incorporated their amazing engagement photos from photographer Herman Au. You can find his work at http://hermanau.com/.

I look forward to providing some photos of their event in next weeks blog! Stay tuned!

Cheers!!
-Angie

Susie Chhuor's Studio offers a limited time offer for 20 Special Brides!!

Hi everyone!

I'm happy to announce that one of my favorite vendors, Susie Chhuor Professional Hair and Make-up Studio is offering a limited time offer. Asian brides tend to flock to her, but she's expanding her market to get more exposure for all those equally beautiful Caucasian brides!!

She's offering her lead stylists for trial sessions at only $75.00, basically half the price of her normal trial session! It's on a first come, first serve basis with limited appointment slots.

Dates for these special trials are from October 10-14, any time before 3 p.m. Appointments are usually 2.5 hours long, so plan accordingly! ; )

This offer applies to brand new brides with weddings that will be in November and December 2011 or in the year 2012.

She did my wedding last year where I had three Caucasian bridesmaids and her team did an AMAZING job!! I'm posting one of my bridesmaids, who I swear they made look just like Nicole Kidman. ; )

You can book an appointment by phone at 626-456-0414 or by e-mail at contact@susiechhuor.com.
When you book your appointments, please let her know that Angie from On the Dot Event Planning referred you! She will take extra good care of you! Her flyer is below.

Cheers!!
-Angie

Splurge vs Steal Part Two - Cinderella's Glass Slipper

So you have found your Prince Charming...and hopefully with our last blog installment, you were able to find your dream dress. So by now, I'm assuming you're wondering what accessories can live up to the dress you simply could not live without! ; )

In part two of three Splurge vs Steal, we will be focusing on finding your dream shoe for your special event. What princess (or regular ole gal) doesn't love a little shoe shopping? ; )

I'd like to begin this blog by stating that I'm sort of a name brand lover, but I've never been one to turn down a bargain! Although I love my brand names, and may (upon occasion) spend more than I should on a fabulous pair of Manolo Blahniks, Christian Louboutins, or Jimmy Choos, I always try to justify my purchase by buying something I can wear again and again.

We all know that you won't be able to wear your wedding gown again (even though all of us wished we could), but who says you can't wear your wedding shoes again? Here's a tip, if you steer clear of white shoes, you may find a great pair of "investment" shoes that you could wear to many anniversary dinners and holiday parties in years to come.

So let's begin with those traditional brides that want to stick with a gorgeous pair of white shoes on their special day. My first pick for the high fashion traditional bride would be the D'Orsay Satin and Feather Pump by Manolo Blahnik.

Retails for $825.00
Photo courtesy of Saks.com

This flattering d'Orsay design is the epitome of elegance with its lavish satin and painted feather upper. The shoe features a satin-covered heel measuring 4 inches in height.

However, for those who can't quite afford the Blahnik price tag, there are some fantastic alternatives. The B.P. Platinum 'Medina' Sandal resembles the amazing petal sandal from the Christian Louboutin collection a couple of years ago. However, this gorgeous sandal goes above beyond by providing the extra boost of height and ease of comfort with the platform sole.

Retails for $69.95
Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.com

Crinkled chiffon petals gathered along the front of this whimsical evening sandal with a sky-high heel, also features an adjustable ankle strap with buckle closure. The approximate heel height measures 4.5 inches with a 0.75 inch platform.

So on to the more adventurous brides!! Do you know what shoe you really will be able to wear again and again? A metallic shoe. It could be silver or gold, depending on which metallic looks better on your skin tone, but I'm partial to silver and a little bling never hurt!!

I have to admit my first pick is a little biased. It was the exact shoe I wore on my wedding day in April 2010. It was actually a shoe I purchased because of my love for shoes, and my undying love for Sex and the City. Remember the infamous episode where Carrie gets her shoes stolen while attending a baby shower at her friends house? Well, here they are...Carrie's missing shoes...Manolo Blahnik's silver nappa 'Sedarby' open toed d'Orsay pump.

Retails for $715.00
Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.com

Now ladies, those Manolos were amazingly comfortable to wear all through my wedding day and the added plus was that I had already worn this pair to many parties and special events prior to my wedding. It's a perfect pairing to that LBD hiding in your closet!

However, if you're looking for something a little less pricey, I've discovered a love for Ivanka Trump's new shoe line at Nordstroms. Especially the 'Asteria' sandal in silver nappa.

Retails for $149.95
Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.com

When I found this strappy sandal, I immediately pictured a sexy and sassy bride...perhaps wearing a slinky little satin sheath, and always ready to party...and with this price tag, there really is something to celebrate! 'Asteria' features a trio of glittering stone- and metal-embellished circles centered on a strappy leather sandal. The approximate heel height measures 3.5 inches.

Next on the list is, of course, something pink. I chose pink only because we here at On the Dot Events can't get enough of it...so for those who are pink adverse, you can simply advert your eyes during this portion of the blog! ; )

What inspired me to post todays blog was Valentino's amazing Crystal Bow Satin Pump in Nude Satin. This is for that over the top girly bride who really loves to make a statement! As a Valentino there is never any doubt that this shoe will deliver!

Retails for $1,195.00

Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.com

Sparkling crystals highlight the signature mesh bow that tops the peep toe of this lustrous satin pump. The approximate heel height measures 4.75 inches and features an 1 inch platform sole. This shoe will be sure to wow you and all your wedding party, as well as the guests...but what about those brides who just thought I was silly to feature a shoe that may have been equal to the cost of their dress? Well, for those budget brides, there are equally luxe pink options to choose from, including the Kate Spade New York 'Charmer' pump in rose gold suede.

Retails for $325.00

Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.com

   

Kate Spade's 'Charmer' pump is a sophisticated suede slingback lifted by a wrapped heel and is accented with a beautifully crafted satin rosette. 'Charmer' features an adjustable slingback strap with buckle closure and an approximate heel height of 3.5 inches. 

For those who are missing "something blue" on their wedding day, wouldn't it be wonderful to find a gorgeous blue shoe to pair with that amazing gown? Well, our pick is Gucci's Sofia Etoile High-Heel Sandal in Marine, that packs a punch in the "bling" department. When you're marching down the aisle, you're guests won't be able to take their eyes of these beauties!

Retails for $1,995.00

Photo courtesy of Bergdorfgoodman.com

However, if blue is still your color and bling isn't you're thing, why not try a much less expensive version from Ivanka Trump's shoe line? Ivanka Trump's 'Dermani' sandal in Blue Satin will give you that bright pop of cobalt blue, but in a more understated fashion.

Retails for $129.95

Photo courtesy of Nordstroms.com

'Dermani' features elegant satin wraps at the ankle which ties at the side of this sky-high sandal. With elastic goring at the instep, an approximate heel height of 4 inches with a 0.5 inch platform, you'll get the height and comfort you desire at a very reasonable price. 

Lastly, I'd like to offer some options for those brides who prefer to have their feet firmly planted on the ground...meaning heels will simply not be an option for these brides. Here are some lovely alternatives for those who are in the anti-heel brigade!

For the traditional bride that despises the heel, Dolce Vita's 'Felice' Sandal in Ivory Satin fits the bill.

Retails for $139.95

Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.com

The 'Felice' sandal features a wispy chiffon rose blossom atop a bare, breezy T-strap sandal.  

Or for those who are also sandal averse, I suggest a cute flat that you could also wear with your LBD to parties, with slacks to the office, and with skinny jeans on the weekends. I believe these peep toe flats from Vera Wang's Lavender collection have to be one of the most versatile pair of shoes you will ever own. Vera Wang Lavender's 'Luna' Metallic Leather Flat in Silver and Platinum with Rhinestones, are pure perfection!

Vera Wang Luna in Silver

Retails for $275.00

Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.com

Vera Wang Luna in Platinum

Retails for $275

Photo courtesy of Neimanmarcus.com

I enjoyed the concept of this blog because it not only provides fashionista brides with some wonderful shoe options, but also provides great options for those bachelorettes out there. If you would like a few more tips in find the "MOST COMFORTABLE" type of shoe to wear on your wedding day, please contact us at info@onthedoteventplanning.com. We'd love to hear from you!

Our third and final Splurge vs Steal installment will feature coordinating handbags...quite possibly one of my favorite items to shop for! I can't wait to share!

Until next time!!

Cheers!

-Angie =) 

Splurge vs. Steal - How to get the designer wedding gown look for less!

Serious fashionista's who commonly read Marie Claire magazine may be familiar with their monthly fashion feature of Splurge vs. Steal, where one outfit or "look" can be fulfilled two ways...one featuring a high price tag for those who can afford it (the splurge), and the less expensive version of the same outfit for a fabulous bargainista price (the steal).

So we here at On the Dot Event Planning are featuring our version of wedding gown Splurge vs. Steal. We hope you love our selections!

Our first dress dress selected is designed by none other than Vera Wang, the mother of the modern wedding gown. While perusing her Fall 2010 collection, I found "Esther", a modern take on the "church appropriate" lady-like lace gown. "Esther" features an illusion sweetheart bodice with a soft a-line skirt. Perfect for brides who still long for the ethereal elegance of Grace Kelly, or more recently, Ivanka Trump on their wedding day. "Esther" is adorned with multi-layered chantilly lace applique, has sheer tulle elbow-length sleeves with floating lace, and a dramatic horsehair sash. With all these fine designer details, "Esther" retails at a whopping $12,000.00.
Source: Misskhue.com

For those who would like to get the look for a lot less, there is no need to fear! The Vera Wang for David's Bridal collection is here! "Esther" apparently has a budget friendly sister in Style VW351023 from the White by Vera Wang collection for David's Bridal...and the best part is, this less expensive number has a removable sheer illusion lace "cover-up" for some serious partying at the reception! Last but not least, the price tag is a lot easier to swallow at a mere $1,300.00. Style VW351023 is a strapless satin-faced organza A-line gown with hand-appliqued lace and a removable illusion piece. The black horsehair sash is also available for an additional price. You could easily swap out the dramatic horsehair sash for something more sweet and preppy, like a pastel colored grosgrain sash.

Source: Weddinginspirasi.com

Next up is another wedding gown designer who is another perpetual favorite among celebrities. Yes, while Vera Wang rules NYC, Monique Lhuillier has captured the hearts of Angelenos with her sweet bridal shop located on Melrose Avenue.

While browsing Monique Lhuillier's Fall 2011 Platinum Collection, I found a gorgeous romantic ruffled gown called "Tuberose". "Tuberose" features an ivory embellished tulle sweetheart neckline corset with an ivory full A-line floral organza embroidered skirt. "Tuberose" retails at hefty $10,300.

With such intricate details on the bodice, and the amazing construction of the "hold it all in" corset, you're bound to look amazing. However, I would be hesitant to think that your pocket book would feel the same way. Seeing how most average brides are unable to afford such luxuries on their wedding day, Ms. Lhuillier has graciously introduced us to her less pricey, but equally enthralling budget line aptly named Bliss. Style BL1205 featured in the Bliss 2012 line, bears a striking resemblance to "Tuberose", featuring a silk white embellished lace and organza strapless sweetheart embroidered bodice and a textured A-line skirt. It seems the only major difference is the price tag. The Bliss line ranges from $2,500.00 to $3,500.

Lastly, for those brides who long to look like Kate Middleton (aka Duchess of Cambridge) on their wedding day...we strongly suggest that you not ask Sarah Burton from the house of Alexander McQueen to replicate her bridal masterpiece, which could set you back $400,000. Instead, take the plunge with lower priced knock-offs offered by David's Bridal and Nordstrom.

Kate's dress was made of French Chantilly lace and English Cluny lace throughout the bodice, skirt and underskirt, and featured ivory and white satin gazar (which was designed to emulate an opening flower). Her train measured almost nine feet long. Individual flowers were hand-cut from lace and hand-engineered onto ivory silk tulle to create the dress' design, which incorporates the rose, thistle, daffodil and shamrock. The back of the dress was finished with 58 gazar and organza covered buttons fastened by Rouleau loops.

You can get the look for a lot less buy purchasing the Long Sleeved Satin and Lace Ball Gown (Style WG3401) from David's Bridal for only $849.00.

While you're shopping for a new pair of shoes on Nordstrom.com, be sure to take a look of their new Duchess Wedding Gown by JS Collections, retailing at a mere $698.00.

Now that you are properly armed with some fabulous budget friendly wedding gown options, we hope that you will breathe a little easier when you begin your dress shopping process. Stay tuned for our next fashion installment where we will feature some lovely wedding accessories!

Signing off for now,

Angie and Nancy. =)

DIY "Pretty In Pink" Parisan Themed Birthday Party Favors

I recently had the pleasure of planning a small party for one of our own at On the Dot Event Planning. It was a benchmark birthday, so I wanted to something special for her in the form of party favors.

Since she wanted to keep things casual, an simple Evite was sent out to five of her special guests indicating that it would be a day of relaxation complete with spa treatments at the Mandara Spa and dinner at the Napa Rose, both institutions in their own right at Disneyland's famous Grand Californian Hotel, located in Anaheim California.

The goal of this DIY project was to achieve a chic and feminine look for the guest of honor, who might I add, is quite a fashionista! She loves the color pink, and is no stranger to name brands like Chanel and Louis Vuitton. Therefore, it was essential that the party favors were a representation of her.

The final product took me less than four hours to shop for and prepare. I thought I would share how I assembled these Pretty In Pink" Parisian themed birthday party favors, so that you may be able to create something similar, for yourself!

For five favors you'll need:

- Five(Chanel-esque print pink and white camelia)decorative cardboard baskets ($1.00 each at Target)
- 1 package of clear treat bags ($3.99 for a pack of 20 at Target)
- White tissue paper, clear cellophane paper, brown stain ribbon, and hot pink curling ribbon (approximately $12.00 at Party City)
- Miniature hot pink colored cans of Sophia Blanc de Blanc sparkling wine that included a mini hot pink straw (Available for less than $4.00 each at your local wine store or Bevmo)
- Strawberry Parisian Macaroons from your favorite bakery (I included two in each gift basket and they were $1.50 each)
- One bouquet of light pink spray roses ($5.99 at Trader Joes)

I started by packaging the pale pink strawberry macaroons in a clear treat bag, taped it and secured it with a brown satin ribbon.

Then I stuffed the base of the gift basket with white tissue paper so I had a good foundation to place the macaroons and sparkling wine. The sparkling wine was secured to the cardboard basket with tape to prevent the macaroons from getting crushed in the transport process.

All empty space around the sparking wine and macaroons were filled by light pink spray roses, which I snipped from the bouquet I purchased from Trader Joes.

Finally, the entire basket was wrapped up in clear cellophane paper and secured with hot pink curling ribbon.

Here are some photos of the DIY project:

Here is a photo of the favor sitting on the table at dinner!! It was girly and gorgeous, just like our birthday girl! :)

I hope you enjoyed our first DIY project featured on our blog. Stay tuned for party planning tips, vendor recommendations, and additional DIY projects!

Cheers!

Angie ;)