Our Best of 2016 Awards Gala at the historic Alexandria Ballroom in downtown Los Angeles was an incredible night from start to finish. We celebrated the industry's top vendors at our 3rd annual awards ceremony announcing the winners (see the full list of here!) and then kept the party rolling as a talented team of vendors, including Trina Schmidt Weddings and Events, Wheat and Honey Events, and Hylah White Special Events, paid homage to Alexandria's storied history as a gathering spots for Hollywood stars, presidents and social royalties--including such notable events as Charlie Chaplain's wedding.
Trina Schmidt designed her space to embrace the ambiance of the classic Hollywood film Casablanca, from the cozy seating nooks and game tables to the Ingrid Bergman-styled models, every detail captures the nuance of the film.
Explains Trina, "We took the old Hollywood after party theme one step further to the classic romance, and one of my personal favorite movies, Casablanca. Set in Morocco during WWII, the infamous "Rick's Cafe Americain" was the focus of my inspiration. This glamorous night club was the center of what made everyone feel welcomed and happy during such difficult times for the French and Germans.
We designed "The Casablanca Club" with that same inviting theme, using comfortable vintage upholstered furniture combined with statement tables and decor pieces from Found Vintage Rentals. We then combined Moroccan lanterns and a bright color palette of red, fuchsia, plum, teal, and gold, which were heavily translated through the unique floral arrangements and accent pieces provided by The Bloom of Time. The design was brought to life with these beautiful images captured by the talented Christopher Todd Studios and a stunning Ingrid Bergman-like model. Featured here, the model wore an elegant and unique bridal gown and coat designed by Samantha Elizabeth Design from Samantha's salon, A Bride for Samantha, formerly known as Andreas for the Bride.
The setting also featured distinct theme signage from Darla Marie Designs, tan snakeskin patterned linens from Luxe Linen and additional accent pieces from 204 Events. As time goes by guests were entertained in this inviting space with a game of roulette provided by Todd Elliott Entertainment, delicious food from 24 Carrots, desserts from Frost It Cakery, specialty cocktails crafted and served by Mr. Bartender and wines from Ancient Peaks Winery. This carefully designed space wouldn't be complete without perfect lighting to enhance the mood by Wave Form Lighting and Events, who also projected the "Casablanca" movie for guests to enjoy.
Expressionary Films captured the eventful evening with cinematic film. Pipe Dream events provided the final added dramatic touch with red velvet draping. Here's looking at you kid...we hope you enjoy this inspiration and are taken back in time to this romantic classic Hollywood story. "
Design (pictured above): Trina Schmidt Weddings and Events
Planning (overall event): True Colors Events
Men's Formal Wear: Friar Tux
Caterer: 24 Carrots
Rentals: Found Vintage Rentals
Rentals (pillows/rugs): 204 Events
Florist: The Bloom of Time
Photographer: Christopher Todd Studios
Signage: Darla Marie Designs
Draping: Pipe Dream Events
Speciality Linen: Luxe Linen
Lighting: Waveform Events, Entertainment & Lighting
Desserts: Frost It Cakery
Wedding Gowns: A Bride By Samantha, Samantha Elizabeth Design
Hair and Makeup: The Queens Bees
Cocktails: Mr. Bartender
