The Ebell Club of Long Beach is our latest venue spotlight. It’s also the venue for our CONFIDENT BRIDE WORKSHOP, being held on March 2nd. I have great affection for The Ebell, because it’s where my beautiful niece Michelle and her groom Jeremy were married. Beauty is only one aspect of choosing a venue. Service is equally as important. As a coordinator, I can personally attest to the fact that the entire staff, led by Liz Palmer is THE BEST. Not only is she the Special Events Manager, she is the owner. Her history with her venue is a LOVE STORY. Liz found this hidden gem and married there. Shortly after she realized she had to own this building and share it with other brides. One of those brides was her own sister Allison, who now works with Liz. Imagine a venue where the people who operate it have a history and love for it. Want to know more? Read Liz’s Story.

With further delay….here is the VENUE SPOTLIGHTHow many guests can you accommodate?  We can accommodate up to 200 for ceremony. 200 for buffet meal, 158 if a sit-down.  
 
Do you provide In-House Catering? Our exclusive caterer, Jay’s A Fine Cuisine and Special Event Company and their award winning staff will create a menu that is a reflection of your event’s style and theme.  As one of the largest and most established full-service catering and special event companies in Southern California, you will be amazed with their culinary creations.

Is parking provided on-site?
We use an off-site parking lot to shuttle guests to and from the venue.  The parking lot is nearby, well-lit and secure.  It’s proximity to the freeway is ideal.  

Do you book more than one event per day? No, we only hold one event at a time.

What is your favorite feature of your venue? Our favorite feature is hard to narrow to just one.  If we must, then it would be the overall architecture of the building.  The Spanish style columns and courtyard create an outdoor feel with old-world charm.Give us the top three reasons why couples should book your venue for their wedding/reception.

1. We are a hidden Gem-We are am amazing venue that is tucked away on a quiet street. When people find us they feel that they have discovered something different and unique.  Guests  are awe-inspired by the building and the romantic atmosphere.

2.  Service. Service. Service.-At The Ebell Club, we pride ourselves on our service.  Our Event Director’s goal is to ensure that every guests walks away from an event stating that it is the best wedding they have been too and that is a lot to live up to.  Our staff work to ensure that your event is just as you imagined and then some!3.  We are a Historic Southern California Landmark.  We are a building rich in history for both women and our great city, Long Beach. The venue was built in 1924 as a social club for women in Long Beach. Read more about the history of this beautiful landmark venue.We thank Liz Palmer for sharing her venue with us.

Our first VENUE SPOTLIGHT of 2010 is The Sheraton Cerritos. Amanda Soria is  The Sheraton’s “Manager of Romance and Fun”. Yes, that’s really her title, and she takes is seriously. She is a consumate professional with a fun attitude. That means you are ensured of a perfect wedding and you’ll actually enjoy the experience.

Approaching this award winning and world class hotel is takes your breathy away. The glittering facade is quite impressive. Equally impressive is the lobby. It’s warm, cozy and inviting. The the decor of the hotel is modern and contemporary, yet it maintains a warmth and charm that says COZY. Around each corner, you are suprised by the beauty of the interiors and careful attention to detail. Make sure to stop in at Grill 91 for lunch. Delicious food and outstanding service. I love the Cuban Sandwich. Yummy.

I asked Amanda to tell us why she thinks the Sheraton should be your choice for a beautiful wedding. So Amanda, take it away!

What is the history of your venue?
The Sheraton Cerritos Hotel was built in 1990. The hotel to recently went under a complete renovation in 2008.

How many guests can you accommodate?  Up to 500 guests
           
Ceremony?     We have 2 beautiful ceremony locations outside. The Garden Terrace can  comfortably seat up to 150 guests with exquisite scenery and a private yet romantic atmosphere. Our second location is the Fountain ceremony located at the front of the hotel. This ceremony spot can seat up to 350 guests. With this unique location you would be sure to wow your guests.  We also can hold ceremonies inside of any of our ballrooms.      Reception?  We have 3 breathtaking reception locations. Our immaculate Crystal Ballroom is our newest addition with over 3,400 square feet, accommodating up to (220) guests.  Our romantic, chandelier-lit Cerritos Ballroom accommodates up to (500) guests. Our intimate Garden Terrace Room is also perfect for (120) guests with floor to ceiling windows and an attached outdoor patio for your private use. All banquet rooms are available for either lunch or dinner.


 

Do you provide In-House Catering? Yes. We are rated #2 in all the Sheraton Hotels across the US in our food and beverage. Our award winning Chef will be sure to make your experience here a tasteful one. Its with great pride we offer exquisite menu items for all our guests. We also allow for our guests to bring in outside catering as well. Is parking provided on-site? Yes, it is complimentary to all our guests. We have plenty of parking with our own private parking area right outside the hotel along with a parking structure just steps away.Do you book more than one event per day?Yes we can book more than one event per day. We never have two events start or end at the same time.  How will that affect my event?  By off setting the times this gives you the feel that your event is the only one taking place at the hotel at that time. Our staff is there to serve only your event and will not have any affect if there is another event going on in the hotel on the same day.What is your favorite feature of your venue?
I personally love Cerritos ballroom. The first time I stepped in the ballroom I fell in love with it.  It is hard not to.  The entire look and feel of the room is absolutely breathtaking.

Give us the top three reasons why couples should book your venue for their wedding/reception.
1. Find the meaning of true relaxation and great service at the Sheraton Cerritos Hotel.
2. Our newly renovated ballrooms are perfect for every planner’s needs. Whether you’re planning an event for 12 people, or 600 friends and family—we make it easy for you with our friendly, consistent, and hospitable service.
3. Our central location also allows families to see everything the area has to offer, including favorite theme parks and attractions, great shopping, dining, and entertainment venues all over the Los Angeles and Orange Counties.Contact Amanda at ASoria@sunstonehotels.com to book an appointment. You won’t be disappointed.

Welcome to the latest venue spotlight. The Belamar Hotel in Manhattan Beach was chosen for several reasons. Primarily because it’s the venue for our 104.3 My Wedding In a Week Contest. More importantly I chose it because I’m enamoured by it. My first visit was with my brother. With time to spare on the way to LAX, we stopped for a cocktail. The restaurant bar is called The Second Story. So cozy and inviting. I love it. My Bloody Mary was delicious and one of the largest I’ve ever had. Very generous indeed. I was a grateful patron indeed.

The minute I walked in the door, it was like coming home. Why? Because the style and colors of the lobby matched my logo. The entire hotel has a chic retro feel. It’s like the 70’s, but updated for today. Wait until you see the rooms. So fun and funky. My favorite touches are the unique paintings. Barbie Doll portraits and chihuahuas! My favorite is the portrait over the fireplace at the pool. The little pooch is wearing swimming goggles. What a great way to escape life for a while and enjoy some lighthearted fun.

Now let’s talk about weddings. For the Ultra-Chic, Modern Bride, this is THE place for your wedding. I’ve been wishing for a wedding at this venue. Can you imagine how excited I am? The outdoor gazebo and patio are the perfect oasis for a sunny Southern California Wedding.

You may want to hear directly from Marie Blomquist, The Belamar’s Catering Manager, who answered a few questions for me about her fresh and fun venue. Marie…..take it away!

What is the history of your venue?
The Belamar is known for it beautiful courtyard and ballroom.
 

How many guests can you accommodate for ceremony? In the courtyard 170 people.  
 Reception? The ballroom with the dance floor 120 people, outside in the courtyard 170 people.

 Do you provide In-House Catering?
Yes.

Is parking provided on-site?

We have complimentary parking

Do you book more than one event per day? How will that affect my event?
Yes, we have a daytime and evening hours. There is a 2 hour of time between events.

What is your favorite feature of your venue?
Our courtyard and ballroom.

Give us the top three reasons why couples should book your venue for their wedding/reception.
Locations, beautiful outdoor reception or indoors, courtyard has 2 different areas where you can be married, the Fountain or Gazebo.

Thank you Marie. We know the winners of the “Wedding In A Week” contest, are going to be treated to an unforgettable wedding experience at The Belamar.

I’m proud to present my latest Venue Spotlight. It’s the Mediterranean Inspired “Grand Del Mar” in San Diego. You can’t truly appreciate the beauty and spawling expanse of this resort until you see it person.  Wedding Jeannie loves the fact that couples have several choices for ceremony and reception throughout the property. The Grand Del Mar is different than any other resort property in Southern California. The reason is “choice”.

I met Paige Levy, Catering Manager while at a networking event on the property. She is a delight. Her knowledge of the venue and willingness to work with you to create the perfect wedding and reception make The Grand Del Mar, the perfect choice for your San Diego wedding.

Enjoy Paige’s responses to my Venue Spotlight.

1.       What is the history of your venue?

Serenely nestled amidst Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve, open a little over one year, The Grand Del Mar seamlessly combines the old-world charm of a Mediterranean estate with the modern luxury of an elegant resort. The result: a destination lauded by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the “World’s Best Places To Stay”. Little wonder, given the sun-drenched climate, stunning natural beauty, championship golf course and irresistible dining – epitomized by Addison, Southern California’s only Five-Star and Five Diamond restaurant. And no visit would be complete without an afternoon of pampering at Spa magazine’s “Favorite New U.S. Spa.”

2.       How many guests can you accommodate?               Ceremony?                Reception?

Reminiscent of a Mediterranean estate, The Grand Del Mar is the perfect host for you and your guests on this special day.  We have several locations for wedding ceremonies and receptions at The Grand Del Mar.  Wedding Ceremony Locations:Reflection Lawn: Up to 250 GuestsAria Lawn: Up to 600 GuestsCapella: Up to 280 Guests Reception Locations:Elizabeth Ballroom: Up to 600 GuestsManchester Salon and Terrace: Up to 100 GuestsCapella: Up to 200 Guests

Wine Rooms: Up to 65 Guests

3.       Do you provide In-House Catering?

All catering is provided in-house at The Grand Del Mar, and our outstanding team of culinary professionals creates extravagant dining experiences to enhance your event.  These imaginative chefs embrace the intricate craftsmanship of the resort’s stunning architecture and exquisite details to create a fluid transition from place to place.

4.       Is parking provided on-site?
Yes, we have valet parking available which you can host for your guests.

5.       Do you book more than one event per day?                How will that affect my event?

We book only one wedding per day at The Grand Del Mar. Other types of events can be booked on any given day, however you will have the luxury of being The Grand Del Mar’s only bride for the day, so we may focus on providing personalized service to you and your guests. 

6.       What is your favorite feature of your venue?

My favorite feature of The Grand Del Mar is the Elizabeth Capella. Our onsite Wedding Chapel is a beautifully appointed venue evoking an intriguing mix of romance, whimsy and rich, detailed design.

Light floods the airy space through expansive tinted and stained glass windows with vibrant hues of amber, amethyst, rose and jewel tones.  The masterful architecture and interiors include an artful mix of Jerusalem gold-honed limestone, Italian Vicenza stone, Rossa Levanto polished marble accents, antiqued timber beams and limestone buttresses.

Anchoring the front of the room is a stunning proscenium supported by hand-carved polished marble columns and a dramatic stained glass quatrefoil window.  Featuring 28 hand-carved removable pews imported from Italy, the Capella accommodates up to 280 guests for a wedding ceremony or seated dinner and 350 guests for a cocktail reception.

7.       Give us the top three reasons why couples should book your venue for their wedding/reception.

1.       The Grand Del Mar’s Mediterranean-style setting draws inspiration from Spain’s palaces, France’s sun-washed coastal retreats, Florence’s decorate arts and Morocco’s exotic architecture.  A wedding here feels like a destination worlds’ away, yet conveniently located in northern San Diego. 2.       The Grand Del Mar hosts only one wedding per day, so our brides are treated with true hospitality as the sole focus on their special day. 3.       The Grand Del Mar is an ideal location for weddings as your guests can visit the resort for several days and never have to leave.   Lounge poolside. Take a scenic hike. Focus on your wellbeing. The Grand Del Mar is nestled in the heart of Southern California, drenched in year-round sunlight and surrounded by a wonderland of flora and fauna.  Endless options offer something for everyone – the active enthusiast, the spirited adventurer, the culinary connoisseur and the style seeker.  From pro-style tennis courts and an 18-hole championship golf course to seasonal cooking classes and an abundance of outdoor recreation in the 37 miles of canyon preserve trails, the vibrant activity of the resort will meet your every need for fun.  Should you venture beyond the luxurious retreat, you’ll find San Diego’s top attractions, art galleries and museums, lively shopping districts, and miles of coastal bliss, all minutes away. 

Wedding Jeannie would like to thank Paige Levy for sharing this magnificent venue with us. If you are planning a San Diego wedding, take the time to call Paige and tour The Grand Del Mar. Many Los Angeles and Orange County couples like the idea of a “destination wedding” close to home. This resort is all that you are wishing for. The resort has every amenity and activity you and your guests would ever need. The Grand Del Mar provides the backdrop for a perfect wedding and a relaxing vacation all in one place. I’m looking forward to working at this venue soon. Now….off to find the perfect client.

In January I was able to enjoy three days at the legendary Riviera Resort and Spa in Palm Springs. I knew the minute I arrived to the friendly valet and hotel check-in, that this was going to be special. It’s very rare to experience top notch service at hotels these days. I was delighted to receive the absolute best service I’ve experienced in a long time. The entire staff takes great care to attend to your every need, with a great attitude.

I’d like to thank Lisa Lynn Backus for working so hard to arrange my three day stay. My room was so fresh and funky, the dinner at Circa 59 was divine, and the pool!!!!!!!! Do yourself a favor and check out the website. I can’t wait to come back in April. Honestly, I see no reason to ever stay anywhere else when I’m in Palm Springs.

The Riviera’s proximity to Los Angeles, makes it your only choice for a chic and sophisticated Palm Springs wedding. I’m happy to share it with you in my latest Venue Spotlight.

Kelsey Angsten, Event Planning Sales Manager was thrilled that the resort would be featured on my blog. She couldn’t wait to share her love of the property with all of my readers. Below are the questions I posed to her. Enjoy her answers and her love of The “Riv”.

1.       What is the history of your venue?
Originally opening in 1959, The Riviera Resort immediately became Palm Spring’s go-to hot spot for celebrities and cultural sophisticates who wanted the ultimate “Palm Springs experience.”  Original architect, Irving Schuman fashioned the resort after major Vegas hotels like The Sands, The Flamingo, and The Stardust.  The hotel was featured in the 1963 film “Palm Springs Weekend” and was the stomping ground for legends such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Elvis Presley.  The “Riv” as it is affectionately referred to by locals, is a monument to legendary mid-Century Palm Springs, giving our guests a modern twist to such a classic time period. Re-open in October of 2008 in a mid-century modern motif with Hollywood glam. 

2.       How many guests can you accommodate?               Ceremony?                Reception?
The Riviera can boast of more than 40,000 square feet of flexible wedding facilities including the Grand Ballroom and the five lushly landscaped outdoor courtyards, gardens, and poolside terraces with scenic views of the San Jacinto Mountains.  There are so many different settings to choose from that we can accommodate small intimate weddings of 30 guests up to grand scales of 800. 

3.       Do you provide In-House Catering?
Yes, we are experts in outstanding catering cuisine.  Your guests will not have the typical wedding dinner experience; we excel in both taste and presentation.   Think haute cuisine.

4.       Is parking provided on-site?
The Riviera does provide parking on-site.  We have an exceptional valet team that takes great care of all of our guests.  The best part is that valet is complimentary for all daily visitors and guests coming to and from the event.  The only charge is for overnight guests.

5.       Do you book more than one event per day?                How will that affect my event?
We have a revenue management team that allows us to make the decisions on a case by case basis. 

6.       What is your favorite feature of your venue?
My personal favorite feature would have to be the overall effect that The Riviera can have on guests when they arrive.  The “wow” factor that takes over their expression as we tour the property.  The Riviera has been transformed with 70 million dollar rejuvenation and the “Hollywood Regency” style that is cool, chic and sophisticated.  While we continue to honor this iconic hotel’s storied past and grand history, the revitalization has put the Riviera on the map as Palm Spring’s most unique, premiere destination resort.   We find guests enjoy the feeling of entertaining their friends and family in an intimate resort setting.

 7.       Give us the top three reasons why couples should book your venue for their wedding/reception.
1.  Let your guests enjoy the ultimate Palm Springs Experience.  Make your wedding reception an ideal mini vacation for everyone to eat, drink, relax and be merry. 
2.  Spa Terre…need I say more?
3.   Feel the romance….Old Hollywood Style! 
Kesely - I couldn’t agree more. Thank you again for being a part of our venue spotlight. We are hoping to bring the perfect couple to you very soon.

Congratulations to The Ebell of Los Angeles. They have been chosen to be my first Spotlight Venue. Featuring this magnificent location was an easy choice. Vintage venues are hard to come by in Southern California, and this one is my favorites. Walking into The Ebell is like walking into another time. It envelopes you. You are instantly transported into another era. One of grace, style and elegance. My recent clients, Gwen and Mark were married at The Ebell in July. Our experience with Melissa and the entire staff was fantastic. I can’t say enough about the delicious food and the outstanding service. Dina Douglass of Andrena Photography captured the couple and The Ebell in fine detail. See the pictures in Dina’s blog

The Ebell’s Director of Catering and Special Event’s is Melissa Allen. She is a consumate professional who works hard to ensure that her couples have a fantastic wedding experience. Wedding Jeannie posed these questions to Melissa. Enjoy her answers in red.

What is the history of your venue?  The Ebell of Los Angeles was built in 1927 by The Ebell Women’s Club and remains their clubhouse to this day.  This architectural masterpiece by renowned Architect Sumner Hunt has been designated an Official American Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the White House Millennium Council  as well as state and local designations as a historic landmark.  The Ebell of Los Angeles is not only a elegant setting for a wedding and reception: the 1,200-seat Wilshire Ebell Theatre has been a theatrical and cultural centerpiece to the Los Angeles community as well.  Judy Garland was discovered performing in a talent show on the Wilshire Ebell Stage.  Amelia Earhart made her last public appearance at The Ebell before her ill-fated flight around the world. 

How many guests can you accommodate?  Ceremony?  In the lounge, appx 250; in the garden, approx. 200 (though its more comfortable around the 150-mark)  Reception?  In the dining room, up to 250 guests with space for dancing (up to 300 without a dancefloor).  In the Lounge, up to 170 guests with space for dancing (up to 220 without a dancefloor.)

 Do you provide In-House Catering?  Yes; our executive Chef Louis Pechan is an extremely accomplished culinarian.  His flair for the exotic compliments his superlative talents in classical and innovative cuisine.  

Is parking provided on-site?  Yes, the Ebell has two parking lots that we share with the Wilshire Ebell Theatre.  Valet parking can be arranged as well, though its only required for events that extend past midnight.

Do you book more than one event per day?  Our clubhouse can accommodate two events based on the layout of our facility.    

How will that affect my event?  It shouldn’t affect it much at all: guests for each party have separate entrances and use separate restrooms and when available, use separate parking lots.  It’s rare for us to book two events on the same night, but it does and can happen.    

What is your favorite feature of your venue?  The Ebell is absolutely stunning in architectural design.  I personally have an affinity for everything vintage, so the history and the uniqueness of the Ebell is probably my favorite part.   We also have a fabulous event team: Teddi and David and I take great care to give personal attention to our clients during the planning process, Chef Pechan takes great pride in his culinary presentation, the Service Staff led by Party Supervisor Anessa Curtin is top-notch and an attentive team.  Its pretty obvious that we all love working here and with each other…

Give us the top three reasons why couples should book your venue for their wedding/reception.Besides the architectural beauty of the Ebell (reason #1) we find that the privacy of the facility is appreciated (reason #2); unlike a hotel or country club, the Ebell is a closed facility, so you needn’t worry about a hotel guest on their way to the pool stopping and gawking at your wedding ceremony.  And reason #3: we know that a wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime moment and its precious not only to the couple but to their family and friends and we approach each one with the honor and integrity it and our guests deserve.   Thank you, Jeannie!  It was such a pleasure working with you and having you here – I can’t wait to do it again! Cheers!

~Meliss

J Restaurant and Lounge is definately the coolest spot in Downtown Los Angeles. www.jloungela.com  it’s located on the 1100 block of S. Olive Street. I took my friends Cherie Steinberg Cote and Hedley Jones of Cherie Photo there for a peek. They are looking for a great city location for an upcoming photo shoot. The patio outside the bar is amazing. It’s a place to go outside and have a cigar and a cocktail. We enjoyed having the place to ourselves and took a few photos. Looks cool doesn’t it?

The food here is soooo delicious. The chef is friendly and truly concerned about your experience. Our lunch blew our socks off. The $3.00 martinis were an added bonus.

We met with Daniela Quiroga the restaurant manager who showed us the entire venue. You have to see it for yourself. The restaurant is cozy and inviting. Upstairs there is a bar and nightclub, with private little lounges and nooks. Outdoors there is a huge patio for hosting private parties. This place is truly a hidden gem.

It was a great afternoon spent with old friends, new friends, great food and incredible atmosphere.