The Best of 2018: The Industry's Top Wedding Vendors | California Wedding Day
The Best of 2018: The Industry's Top Wedding Vendors
Roll out the red carpet for this year’s stars of the wedding industry!
June 6, 2018
The votes are in for California Wedding Day's annual awards program, Best of 2018, honoring the most innovative and creative talent in the wedding industry from Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura/Santa BarbaraandSan Luis Obispo County. The finalists were chosen by their peers through an open voting process held online at californiaweddingday.com. Plan your day with this incredible list of talented vendors who will make your wedding dreams come true.
Winners were announced at wedding industry’s event of the year at Vibiana on May 15 and are published in the Summer 2018 issue of California Wedding Day. The gala whisked guests on a road trip through the bounty of the Golden State, from Napa Valley to Palm Springs. Under the helm of our audacious leader, Lisa Khan of Lisa Khan Events and Jason Rhee of Rheefined Events, with incredible support from Rayce Pr, we joined forces with a talented team of vendors to create a quintessential Californian experience … all the way from the 405 to 101 to Mulholland Drive and all the way down the PCH.
THE WOW FACTOR
OVERALL VENDOR
LOS ANGELES WINNER Eddie Zaratsian Lifestyle and Design Known for: From romantic, cascading floor-to-ceiling florals to modern statement pieces that will delight design buffs, Eddie and his team create fanciful and creative installations that will transform any space into another world. Finalists:Cielo Farms, Contemporary Catering, Marisa Nicole Events
Photography by from left, Brian Tropiano for Braedon Weddings, Chloe Moore Photography, Next Exit Photography From left, Eddie Zaratsian, Best Overall Vendor, L.A.; Marisa Nicole Events, Best Wedding Planner, L.A.; Lotus and Lily, Best Florist, L.A.
ORANGE COUNTY WINNER Platinum Weddings by Kerrie Known for: Kerrie’s spirit of celebration in every decision, a vast knowledge of her craft and the ability to honor cultural traditions, even when merging the most diverse of families together. Finalists:Confetti Skies, Events by Robin, Kelsey Events
VENTURA COUNTY/SANTA BARBARA WINNER Bella Vita Events Known for: Bringing the meaning of their name “beautiful life” to the forefront of all experiences, including co-creating with their clients to bring their dreams to fruition while staying on time and on budget. Finalists:Star Hansen Events, Wedding Kate, Wheat and Honey Weddings and Events
SAN LUIS OBISPO WINNER Amanda Holder Events Known for: A Rolodex of local vendors at her fingertips combined with excellent communication, a calm demeanor and attention to detail. Holder excels at creating flawless weddings and stress-free moments—plus, you can count on her to appear with a glass of Champagne at just the right moment. Finalists:Nanci Bernard Wedding and Event Planner, Le Festin Events, Vanessa Noel Events
Photography by from left, Jenny Quicksall; Maya Mayers Photography; Lin and Jirsa Photography From left, XO Bloom, Best Florist, Ventura/Santa Barbara; Maya Myers, Best Photographer, L.A.; Lin and Jirsa Photography, Best Photographer, O.C.
VENTURA COUNTY/SANTA BARBARA WINNER XO Bloom Known for: Inventive weaving of flowers into almost anything (including fashion for the wedding day!). This design duo has a background in event production and an eye for elegant creations. Finalists:Casa Blanca Event Design, Knot Just Flowers, Unique Floral Designs
Photography by from left, Valorie Darling; Jim Kennedy Photographers; Allison Maginn Photography From left, Quail Ranch, Best Outdoor Venue, Ventura/Santa Barbara; Flowers by Cina, Best Florist, O.C.; Vibiana, Best Indoor Venue, L.A.
VENTURA COUNTY/SANTA BARBARA WINNER Jenny Quicksall Known for: A passion for life and a warm personality that translates effortlessly into every photo Quicksall captures. From outdoor affairs with beautiful soft light to the perfectly placed pair of high heels in the bridal suite, Quicksall’s wedding-day coverage will make you swoon. Finalists:Lucas Rossi, Michelle Beller Photography, Miki and Sonja Photography
SAN LUIS OBISPO WINNER Jen Rodriguez Known for: Capturing sweet moments when no one is looking and getting couples to push the limits of where they’ll pose for dramatically beautiful results. And with her mantra, “Every moment is a gift,” clients know their images will be stunning. Finalists:Alexandra Wallace, Cameron Ingalls, Kelsea Holder
Photography by from left, Sally Piinera; Jarrod J Photography; Courtesy of Ojai Valley Inn From left, Platinum Weddings by Kerrie, Best Wedding Planner, O.C.; Pure Lavish Events, Best Event Design, O.C.; Ojai Valley Inn And Spa, Best Resort, Ventura/Santa Barbara
VIDEOGRAPHER
LOS ANGELES WINNER Blue Kite Cinema Known for: Quality, technologyandexpertise, whether in the far-off reaches of the world or in your own private garden back home. Finalists: Hoo Films, Samson MediaWorks, The SirenandCo.
ORANGE COUNTY WINNER Hoo Films Known for: Capturing real moments, true excitement and unfettered celebration. From quirky personal stories to swanky soirees, the team documents each event with a timeless, yet modern approach. Finalists:Boffo Video, Fisheye Studio, Luxury Lifestyle Studios
VENTURA COUNTY/SANTA BARBARA WINNER Lucas Rossi Known for: Apowercombination of photography and videography. Although Rossi is known for exceptional service in both genres, his wedding videos tell stories that take couples to the heart of every meaningful moment of the day. Finalists:618 Studios, I Heart My Groom, Patrick Ang
SAN LUIS OBISPO WINNER Patrick Ang Known for: An exceptional use of natural light, together with catching the sweet, lighthearted moments and emotional connections. A bonus: He’s also a photographer, so you have the option of having the best of both worlds! Finalists:Cameron Ingalls, SLOtography, Steelhead Cinema
Photography by from left, Courtesy of Intercontinental Los Angeles; Chard Photographer From left, Intercontinental Los Angeles, Best New Venue, L.A.; Terranea Resort, Best Resort, L.A.
THE PERFECT LOCATION
NEW VENUE
LOS ANGELES WINNER InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown Known for: There’s nothing small about this 889-room property: The lobby is on the 70th floor; its Spire 73 is the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere; and the Grand Ballroom, with 1,779 seats, is ready for any South Asian reception. The 94,000 square feet of event space comprises a diverse group of venues, from a rooftop lounge, complete with a unique water and fire feature, to a breezy garden patio with views of Seventh Street’s historic facades. Finalists:The Garden at Redbird, Rolling Hills Country Club, ValentineandGrass Room
ORANGE COUNTY WINNER Huntington Bay Club Known for: A newly renovated nautical-style design with both indoor and outdoor waterfront event areas, views for days and a private beach. Finalists:Fête The Venue, Hangar 21
VENTURA COUNTY/SANTA BARBARA WINNER Hotel Californian Known for: A prime location steps from the ocean and adjacent to the Funk Zone, the property marries terra-cotta Spanish architecture with a beach vibe. The Alhambra ballroom, full of Moorish flair and with enough space to accommodate 285 guests, is beyond perfect for saying “I do.” Finalists:Kestrel Park, VillaandVine
SAN LUIS OBISPO WINNER Rava Wines and Events Known for: Its picturesque one-stop shop locationin the heart of Paso Robles. This vineyard and event venue sits on 505 acres of wine country, complete with a horse ranch, lake, olive grove, ballroomandaccommodations. Finalists:White Barn, SLO Brew
Photography by from left, Brandon Kidd Photography; Brian Tropiano for Braedon Flynn Photography; Jay C Winter From left, The Resort at Pelican Hill, Best Resort, O.C.; Contemporary Catering, Best Catering, L.A.; Pepper Tree Ranch, Best Outdoor Venue, S.L.O.
OUTDOOR VENUE
LOS ANGELES WINNER Cielo Farms Known for: Panoramic views of the Santa Monica Mountains, the family-owned estate boasts 30 acres of olive orchard and vineyard. The rustic, stone Tuscan-style farmhouse, nestled among the trees and hills, is a picturesque and private space for everything from black-tie to casual afternoon nuptials. Finalists:Bel-Air Bay Club, La Venta Inn, Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards
ORANGE COUNTY WINNER Rancho Las Lomas Known for: Unique and elegant grounds that include wildlife (there’s even a white tiger!), which inhabit the open-air museum and Rancho Las Lomas Wildlife Foundation. The grand El Teatro is the property’s most frequently used site, housing a marble stage and beautifully overgrown oak and sycamore trees. Finalists:Franciscan Gardens, Old Ranch Country Club, The Ranch at Laguna Beach
VENTURA COUNTY/SANTA BARBARA WINNER Quail Ranch Known for: Family owned and operated, this picturesque avocado ranch, perched on a hill in Simi Valley, is ideal for outdoor events and intimate parties. The Spanish-style historic estate offers an elegant courtyard, flowing fountains and tall pine trees. Finalists:San Ysidro Ranch, Santa Barbara Historical Museum, Sunstone Villa
Photography by from left, Jenny Quicksall; Lorely Meza; LeVie Photography From left, All About Events, Best Rentals, S.L.O.; Huntington Bay Club, Best New Venue, O.C.; Fantasy Frostings, Best Cakes, L.A.
INDOOR VENUE
LOS ANGELES WINNER Vibiana Known for: Lofty ceilings, luxurious white marble, an elegant outdoor garden and impeccable food served by celebrity-favorite chef Neal Fraser. If a grand entrance is what you seek, look no farther than this historic property, which was once a cathedral before reopening its doors as a dramatic event space. Finalists:Carondelet House, The Ebell of Los Angeles, The Modern
SAN LUIS OBISPO WINNER Tooth and Nail Winery Known for: A regal castle setting befitting a royal wedding among the vines. The unique event venue offers something different, with several spaces to choose from for both the traditional and slightly more alternative couple. Finalists:The Cliffs Resort, Dana Powers House and Barn, Rava Wines
Photography by from left, Jenny Quicksall; Dina Douglass From left, Kelly Patrice, Best Invitations, Ventura/Santa Barbara; Luxe Linen, Best Tabletop Rentals, L.A./O.C.
BEST RESORT FOR A WEDDING
LOS ANGELES WINNER Terranea Resort Known for: Being a destination within a destination, this Rancho Palos Verdes property boasts 102 acres along the Pacific Ocean as well as Mediterranean-style architecture. The outdoor lawn has some of the best sunset viewing spots in the city, and the Catalina Room continues the view with floor-to-ceiling windows, providing an alfresco ambiance. Finalists: The Beverly Hills Hotel, Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach, Waldorf Astoria
ORANGE COUNTY WINNER The Resort at Pelican Hill Known for: A dramatic ceremony site, with its signature rotunda overlooking the ocean, and an incredible staff to serve your every whim. In addition, Pelican Hill features some of the most celebrated chefs in town, roomsandsuites you won’t want to leave, and a venue large enough to accommodate—and dazzle—all your nearest and dearest. Finalists:The Waterfront Beach Resort, Monarch Beach Resort, Pasea HotelandSpa
SAN LUIS OBISPO WINNER The Cliffs Resort Known for: Prime oceanfront property, situated on its own bluff on famed Pismo Beach. With beach access, an oceanfront ceremony lawn and tent pavilion, and a grand ballroom fit for 270 of your nearest and dearest, this newly renovated propertyisideal for couples seeking a spot located halfway between their Southern and Northern California friends. Finalists:Allegretto Vineyard Resort, Granada Hotel and Bistro, Dolphin Bay Resort and Spa
AT YOUR SERVICE
CATERER
LOS ANGELES WINNER Contemporary Catering Known for: Inventive food design, gorgeous presentationsandincredibly creative cuisine. But the heart and soul of the company are just as delightful as the food, with a passionate staff that bends over backward to make every detail perfect. Finalists:Good Gracious! Events, Made by Meg, New York Food Company
ORANGE COUNTY WINNER 24 Carrots Catering and Events Known for: Fine dining, exemplary service, exceptional venues and creative design in the California wedding scene. Its exquisite food, inventive menus and fanciful event designbringweddings to life with a richness of experience that’s filled with fresh, house-made dishes and never-before-seen pairings that delight all the senses. Finalists:Colette’s Catering and Events, Jay’s Catering, Summit Event Catering
VENTURA COUNTY/SANTA BARBARA WINNER Command Performance Catering Known for: Creating a culinary experience for each event that’s as unique as the couple tying the knot. And with an in-house floral designer, rentals and exclusive wedding locations under their umbrella, the experienced staff makes planning your wedding stress-free. Finalists:805 Catering, Catering Connection, Seasons Catering, Pure Joy Catering
Photography by from left, Lucas Rossi; Mike Larson From left, Party Pleasers, Best Rentals, Ventura/Santa Barbara; Greengate Ranch, Best Overall Vendor, S.L.O.
WEDDING CAKES
LOS ANGELES WINNER Fantasy Frostings Known for: Inventive designs, heartfelt care for their clients, passion in their purpose, and sweets that are out-of-this-world good—it’s no wonder these cake artists have served celebrity clients for decades. Finalists:The Butter End Cakery, SusieCakes, Vanilla Bake Shop
ORANGE COUNTY WINNER Simply Sweet Cakery Known for: Sweet treats that contain love and heart from each team member. With designs in French buttercream and cake in surprising flavors such as peanut butter and jelly and “strawberry fields forever,” trust us, you won’t want to save your top tier for an entire year. Finalists:Elise Cakes, Grace and Honey Cakes, Sweet Art Fine Swiss Confectioner
VENTURA COUNTY/SANTA BARBARA WINNER Frost It Cakery Known for: Using organic fruits and goods from local farmers’ markets, ensuring you get the best-tasting treats on your wedding day. Frost It serves up delectable custom cakes and dessert bars, but it’s the creative artistry we love best. Finalists:Enjoy Cupcakes, Lele Patisserie, Sweet Art Bake Shop
Photography by from left, Lorely Meza; Studio Emp; Anna Delores Photography From left, 24 Carrots, Best Catering, O.C.; Found Rentals, Best Rentals, O.C.; Prim & Pixie, Best Invitations, L.A.
ALL IN THE DETAILS
BEST RENTALS
LOS ANGELES WINNER Premiere Party Rents Known for: A vast inventory with all you’ll ever need to throw a party, from delicately detailed china to festive fire pits and clear-top tents, too. Finalists:204 Events, A Rental Connection
ORANGE COUNTY WINNER Found Vintage Rentals Known for: Offering one-of-a-kind rentals, includingitemsplucked from a Parisian flea market and Old World tabletop accents, that make any modern wedding look like a masterpiece. Found Vintage Rentals sources impeccable pieces ranging from delicate textiles to mod seating. Finalists:Archive Rentals, Sweet Salvage Rentals, Sundrop Vintage
Photography by from left, Chard Photography; Braedon Photography; Lacie Hansen From left, Premiere Party Rentals, Best Rentals, L.A.; Kristin Banta Events, Best Event Design, L.A.; Theoni Collection, Best Tabletop Rentals, Ventura/Santa Barbara
ORANGE COUNTY WINNER Waveform Events Entertainment and Lighting Known for: Offering personal service and vast experience, Waveform will deliver your dance floor, event lightingandphoto booth fun, and ensure no moment of entertainment is overlooked at your wedding reception. Finalists:Elevated Pulse Productions, Honored Occasions, Premier Event Lighting
VENTURA COUNTY/SANTA BARBARA WINNER Bella Vista Designs Known for: Decades of dedicated service that goes beyond excellent technical and lighting skills, offering couples one-stop shopping for furniture, sound and fabric staging. Finalists:Ambient Event Design, Shine Lighting, Spark Creative Events
VENTURA/SANTA BARBARA WINNER West Coast Music Known for: The quality of its performers,the livelinessof its bands and groups, and the creativity that the performers bring to the party. Finalists:Dart Collective, Elan Artists, LIV Entertainment
LOS ANGELES WINNER David Krieger Known for: A longstanding professional manner with a background in radio and television, giving him the tools to rock a dance floorlikefew others can. Finalists:Dart Collective, Red Shoe, VIP Entertainment
SAN LUIS OBISPO WINNER Kramer Events Known for: A skilled master of ceremonies who rocks the mic and your favorite tunes, plus a dedicated lighting expert who works to create a unique experience of sound and sight that gets your guests on the dance floor. Finalists:Central Coast Premier Entertainment, Epic Entertainment, Malik Thorne
Photography by from left, Jodee Debes Photography; Stephanie Williams, For this Modern Romance; Sue Bryce From left, JLM Couture, Best Wedding Dress Shop, L.A.; David Krieger, Best DJ, L.A.; Erica Elizabeth Designs, Best Bridal Accessories, L.A.; Rmine, Best Custom Dress Designer, L.A.andO.C.
SAN LUIS OBISPO WINNER Fête and Quill Known for: Large-scale hand-lettered wedding signs, calligraphy on almost anything (even oystershells) and bespoke invitation design with a variety of printing press styles to select from. Finalists:Bourbon Blue Cards, Rosey Calligraphy, Salt and Stag Creative
STYLE GUIDE
WEDDING DRESS SHOP
LOS ANGELES WINNER JLM Couture Known for: A one-stop shop for the best in bridal couture—offering glamour and sparkle, modern and sophisticated, as well as timeless styles. Withdesigners likeHayley Paige and Lazaro among the bridal dress racks, you’re sure to find your dream gown. Finalists:A Bride by Samantha, Kinsley James Couture Bridal, Panache Bridal
ORANGE COUNTY WINNER Mon Amie Bridal Salon Known for: An impressive selection of gowns, including designs by Sareh Nouri, Berta, Viktor and Rolf, and Pronovias. Opt for the VIP appointment and you’ll find yourself feeling like Hollywood royalty with bridal swag, additional time and store credit. Finalists:Blush Bridal Couture, Casablanca Bridal, The White Dress
VENTURA COUNTY/SANTA BARBARA WINNER Camarillo Bridal Boutique Known for: Quality of selection at a price that keeps you happy during your wedding planning process. With notable brands and collections from David Tutera, Maggie Sottero and Casablanca Bridal, plus stylists who guide you to “the one.” Finalists:The Dress Bridal, Kay’s Bridal, Panache Bridal Santa Barbara
SAN LUIS OBISPO WINNER Moondance Bridal Known for: The go-to place for the “romantic and free-spirited” bride, boasting designers such as Theia and Sarah Seven. With effortless romance fluttering through its gown collections and a relaxed vibe in the salon, this is wedding dress shopping without the stress. Finalists:A Heart’s Desires Bridal and Tuxedo, Down the Aisle, Something Bridal
CUSTOM GOWN DESIGNER
LOS ANGELES/ORANGE COUNTY WINNER Rminé Bespoke Known for: Fashion-forward, daring, dramatic and regal couture wedding dresses. If a grand ball gown suits you, then you’re in luck with designer Arminé Ohanessian at thehelm. Her eye can be bold and even colorful, yet her lines are clean and soft for the ultimate bridal moment. Finalists:Jinza Couture Bridal, Madeleine Fig, Trish Peng
VENTURA COUNTY/SANTA BARBARA/SAN LUIS OBISPO WINNER Madeleine Fig Known for: Unending attention to detail, timeless classics with a modern edge and one-of-a-kind gowns for the bride who seeks something different to walk down the aisle in. Finalists:Jinza Couture Bridal, RMINE, Trish Peng
Photography by from left, Emily Magers Photography; Heydey Photos From left, Design Visage, Best Hair and Makeup, O.C.; Hey Gorgeous Formal Wear, Best Groomswear, S.L.O.; The Queen’s Bees, Best Hair and Makeup, S.L.O.
BRIDAL ACCESSORIES
LOS ANGELES WINNER Erica Elizabeth Designs Known for: Vintage-inspired bridal accessories, including tiaras, crowns, bespoke wedding veils and other beautiful handmade bridal pieces that are sure to make a fashionable statement. Finalists:Kendra Scott, Margaret Rowe Couture, Panache Bridal
ORANGE COUNTY WINNER Mon Amie Bridal Salon Known for: An inventory of bridal accessories, such as veils and a stunning collection of Maria Elena headpieces, that evoke the ultimate in bridal elegance. Finalists:Camille Christine, Erin Cole, Styled by TC
LOS ANGELES/VENTURA COUNTY/SANTA BARBARA/ORANGE COUNTY WINNER Friar Tux Known for: Fashionable inventory and ease of ordering paired with plenty of varietymakethis experience a breeze, no matter where you live or plan to wed. Finalists:The Black Tux, Grooms Grotto, Men’s Wearhouse, Nordstrom
Photography by from left, Martin Rusch; Courtesy of Madeleine Fig; Diana King From left, Kendra Scott, Best Bridal Accessories, Ventura/Santa Barbara; Madeleine Fig, Best Designer, Ventura/Santa Barbara/S.L.O; Page Beauty, Best Hairand Makeup, L.A.
ORANGE COUNTY WINNER Design Visage Known for: Standing the test of time and a proven level of excellence. From Brazilian blowouts to bridal makeup, the artists ensure you feel beautiful from head to toe. Finalists:Face It Sugar Beauty Therapy, Flawless Faces, Vanity Belle
SAN LUIS OBISPO WINNER The Queen’s Bees Known for: Its collective of hair and makeup artists, who have been handpicked because of their experience and artistic ability. Offering airbrushed makeup, creative updos, plus eyelash and hair extensions. Finalists:Brit Tarr, Candace Miller Makeup, Tami Bernard Makeup Artist
SAN LUIS OBISPO WINNER Rick Comstock Known for: Creatively helping couples find the right words to express their love and designing wedding ceremonies that reflect just those two individals. Finalists:Andy Morris, Russ Gordon, Tom Allen
