Ethereal Arabic Platinum Wedding Feature: {Myriam + Ashraf}

When I walked into Myriam’s bridal suite to check up on her I noticed a radiant glow upon her (keep in mind this was before the makeup artist arrived).  To be quite honest, I’ve never seen a bride this radiant in my life.  I knew her wedding day was going to be filled with love and beauty.  I remember taking a look at her right before she walked down the aisle and thinking how unbelievably striking she was.  The ceremony took place at dusk in the grand ballroom of the historic Casa del Mar in Santa Monica.  We had one hour to transform the ballroom into a breathtaking and heavenly reception filled with crystal chandeliers and blush pink orchids with crystals hanging on manzanita branches made to look as if they were floating in air.  A delicious four-course meal consisting of crab cakes, lobster, filet mignon, and two wedding cakes were served.  Guests were entertained by an amazing performance by belly dancers, a live Arabic band, and a fantastic DJ.  Butler-passed snacks of mini cheeseburgers, mini pizzas, French fries served in cones, and chocolate & vanilla milkshake shooters were served at midnight to satisfy the guests’ late night cravings.  One word describes this extraordinary platinum wedding, which is one of the best weddings I’ve ever coordinated and designed to date, ETHEREAL.  A special thanks to Tauran Woo for sharing the amazing photos and Dodie Sy of Brassavolas Floral Couture for the fabulous floral designs.  Scroll down after the pictures for more info on the Dream Team that made this wedding possible.

{All photos by Tauran Woo}

{THE DREAM TEAM}

Ceremony and Reception:  Casa del Mar in Santa Monica; Wedding Planner/Coordinator:  Majell del Castillo Events; Hair/Makeup:  Amy Sparks; Bridal Gown Designer:  Stephen Yearick from Mon Amie; Groom's Tux:  Hugo Boss from Nordstrom; Event Lighting/Rentals:  Royal Events Inc; Flowers:  Brassavolas Floral Couture; Photography:  Tauran Woo; Videographer:  Today's the Day; Cake:  Vanilla Bake Shop; Croquembouche:  Caprice Fine French Pasteries; Harpist:  Shawna Lynn Selline; Entertainment:  Layla and the Lotus Dancers; Live Arabic Band:  Shadi Sayegh; DJ:  DJ Samy of Samy's Entertainment; Invitation Ensemble:  Papyrus; Guest Book; MyPublisher.com

Wedding Bling: Frost Yourself

(Image via Adorn Brides)

It's all about the bling bling! Red carpet events and television shows like "Platinum Weddings" have greatly influenced many brides and grooms to display some sort of sophistication and class whether it be through decor elements, catering, or attire. In regards to attire and accessories, brides want to walk down the aisle wearing millions of dollars worth of jewelry. This is proof we live in an image-obsessed society. For some brides on a tight budget, they opt for rhinestone jewelry. But many wish to have the real thing without the huge price tag. AdornBrides.com has come at a time when brides need them the most. You can rent diamond necklaces, earrings, and bracelets worth $10,000 for only a few hundred dollars a week.

(Image via Steal The Time)

And for men who want to portray an image of class and luxury, you can rent luxury brand watches from Rolex to Cartier at StealTheTime.com. It's all about the details, right?

La Tavola Linens Event in Beverly Hills

(Beverly Hills Showroom)

Above 3 images from Jen Good Photography (www.jengood.com)

A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of attending La Tavola Linens grand opening of their showroom in Beverly Hills. It was just FABULOUS! Square Root Designs of Orange County provided the chic centerpieces. Simply stunning! I'm so excited they opened a showroom down here. They have wonderful linens to choose from at great prices! They are located across the street from the Peninsula Hotel on Santa Monica Blvd in Beverly Hills. Come by and visit them...you won't be disappointed!

Below are pictures I took (not the best, but whatever right?)...enjoy!