Lavender & Purple Wedding at Alice Keck Park & El Paseo Restaurant

Featured on Santa Barbara Wedding Style Blog, this bride and groom are very special to Zohe because the groom is one of Zohe's best friends, and Zohe was honored when they asked her to plan their Santa Barbara wedding.

The couple chose to hold their ceremony at the beautiful Alice Keck Park in Santa Barbara, since that is where they had part of their first date. 

The bride knew her colors from the start of the wedding planning, that is why the bridesmaids wore purple, knee length gowns and carried varied shades of purple floral bouquets crafted by the ever talented Margaret Joan Florals.  

The couple hung different shades of purple ribbons behind them at the existing lush ceremony altar, creating a fun backdrop as Rich Tobin led the couple through their vows. Guitar Witt duo softly played Spanish style music throughout the ceremony which incorporated the bride's Cuban background and added romance to the park’s ambiance. 

Felici Events worked with this couple to plan a wonderful day for them as they moved from the ceremony to the iconic El Paseo Restaurant for their reception.

Kelsey Crews Photo captured the day so perfectly and that she even got a few shots in of the couple’s beloved pooch, Kirby, who made his appearance at the ceremony. The day ended on a sweet note with a full dance floor of dancers, and nonstop dancing to music provided by Gavin Roy Presents as well as a delicious cake by Christine Dahl Pastries.

Cake - Christine Dahl Pastries

Ceremony Venue - Alice Keck Park

Flowers - Margaret Jordan Floral

Lighting - SPARK Creative Events

Music ~ Ceremony & Cocktails - Guitar Witt

Music ~ Reception - DJ Gavin Roy

Officiate - Rich Tobin

Photography - Kelsey Crews Photo

Planner - Felici Events

Reception Venue - El Paseo Restaurant

Rentals - Just 4 Fun Party Rentals

Private Estate Silver + Blue Santa Barbara Wedding

Villa Verano February Santa Barbara Wedding

This very special private estate wedding was full of delight, elegance and a class act couple to go along with it!  When Jill + Jason sought me out, they did not have a location picked out yet, but knew they wanted to get married 2.15.15 because of Jason's work schedule (Hight School teacher in NYC).  They were really leaning toward a luxury hotel wedding, but wedding planning is my thing and reading people my talent.

Because their friends, families and selves were coming to California from the East Coast, I suggested they look at private venues.  This would allow them to enjoy the weather and stunning views Santa Barbara offers for longer than a 2 hour stint (with daylight savings, they would have most of the reception in the dark).   Soooo, off to see venues we went, and Villa Verano is what they fell in love with.  It allowed for their close family to stay w/ them (just as if they were in a hotel) and enjoy the property and privacy for their entire stay.

I The colors the client chose were silver and blue for this February affair.  Below the gorgeous invitations created by the über talented Lazaro Press and Designs.

Jill and Jason Invitation Wedding Blue and Silver Felici Events

The wedding ceremony took place at the quaint and intimate setting of the lower garden on the property. Their officiate, a close friend, did a phenomenal job with the ceremony.  I would hire her for all of my nuptials if she lived closer, not New York City.

Jill and Jason Wedding Ceremony Villa Verano Felici Events

The colors worked so well with the venue, flirty flowers, elegant linens and silver rimmed glassware

Jill and Jason Table Set Up Felici Events Villa Verano

Jill and Jason Excort Card display on hydrangea Felici Events

The escort cards are displayed on a bed of hydrangeas which eventually became a focal point.  

The couple's sweetheart table full of lush white floral with the themed colors.

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villa verano view

Here is a full view of the gorgeous reception terrace, with string lights and heaters provided by the venue. 

Felici Events Blue and Silver table top birds eye view

And a birds eye view of the gorge white floral with lily's hydrangeas, paler roses, white roses and more.

We don't know what was prettier, the backdrop of the American Riviera or the simple and delicious wedding cake.

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Listening to the toasts, the chandelier above the sweetheart table brought romance to the decor.

First Dance Jill and Jason

And their first dance!

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We love this moment captured by the photographer of the bride laughing at her new hubby.  He is a funny guy, and she has a great laugh, so we are partial to this image.  Thank YOU Jill + Jason for hiring Felici Events as your planner for your perfect winter Southern California Wedding!

Grazie Mille to the Team of Vendors who made this magical week-end happen!

Cake - Room For Cake

Catering - Omni Catering & Events

Flowers - Coco Rose Design

Hair/Make Up - Chateau Belle

Invitation - Lazaro Press & Design

Lighting - Bella Vista Designs

Music ~ Ceremony & Cocktails - The Aurora Ensemble

Music ~ Reception - DJScott Topper Productions

Photography - Andrejka Photography

Planner - Felici Events

Rentals - The Tent Merchant

Felici Events Featured in CASA Magazine

Article from CASA Magazine

Felici Events Makes News for Planning Santa Barbara's Largest Philanthropic Event

Special thanks to CASA magazine for their article, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” published in August 2009. The article, written by Jacqueline Dyson, provides a detailed description of the event and includes information about Michael Towbes. This birthday celebration also served as a benefit for the Granada Restoration Capital Campaign and raised approximately $1.2M.

As the evening drew to a close, the party was just getting started! Dancing under the stars to Lois Mahalia & The Georgetown Band, exuberant guests rocked the house. Michael enjoyed dancing to his favorite song ‘YMCA’ with wife Anne, granddaughter Allison, and the family. Michael and Anne savored a special moment with the favorite, At Last, and shut is down with a rousing last dance Don’t Stop ‘Till You Get Enough. When all was said and diner, the party’s theme summed it up well: “It’s a Wonderful Life!” – CASA Magazine

Casa Magazine celebrates life in Santa Barbara. This award-winning weekly magazine focuses on cultural institutions and non-profits that support basic human rights and stewardship of the earth. Jacqueline Dyson has written other articles on local fundraising events, including:

• La Fiesta del Museo
• A Night at the Opera Santa Barbara

Felici Events is a first-class event design and production company based in Santa Barbara, California that produces events like this 80th birthday celebration. Contact us if you are planning an upcoming birthday celebration and looking for a company that listens to and expertly translates its clients’ visions into reality.

#FeliciFied, Fantabulous, Bravo + YAY!

Today I am overwhelmed with absolute emotion!  I have been chosen by MY PEERS and received TWO awards from Borrowed and Blue's Best of B&B.  My heart is so full!! AWARD 1) Felici Events received the silver medal for Best Wedding Planner in Santa Barbara, alongside two amazing fellow planners. It is a true honor to be mentioned + runner up with talent. What a thrill!

Best Planner Silver Borrowed and Blue Felici Events Award

AWARD 2) The BEST news and heartwarming feeling of all, is that Santa Barbara fellow vendors named me Most Valuable Vendor. "An ambassador for the local event community."  They see me, Zohe Felici, as a leader, role model and vendor having a collaborative spirit and a  nurturing passion for Santa Barbara.

Most Valuable Vendor Borrowed + Blue Felici Events

I am so humbled, and have worked to so hard to foster relationships with such a wonderful event community, and I am honored that this indeed is the case.  Grazie Mille Santa Barbara!  I am proud to call you my home and to impact friendors in my #FeliciWorld which I celebrate daily and adore so much. I have been #FeliciFied

XO

Zohe Felici

Planning A Tuscan-Themed Oceanfront Dinner

Felici Worldwide Brings Tuscany to Santa Barbara

After traveling to Italy in July, Zohe was so inspired by her mother land.  The colors, food and vibrant settings motivated Felici Events owner to produce a Tuscan-style rehearsal dinner for her wedding clients.  Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the views were stunning and something to compete with, but Felici Events found no challenge in producing an event just as breathtaking.

A Huge Thank you to our Vendors:

NLC Productions - Flowers + Decor

Town and Country Event Rentals - Tableware + Rentals

Catering Connection - Catering

Kiel Rucker Photography - Photography

Felici Events - Planning + Coordination

Blue, Purple + Teal = Bat Mitzvah Garden Party Appeal

Peacock Colors + a Garden in the Heart of Santa Barbara

It is no secret that the Santa Barbara Club is one of our favorite venue to produce weddings and special events in Santa Barbara.  So much so that Zohe held her 40th Birthday Celebration - Godfather Theme - at this location.  In fact, this client attended that event and also fell in love with the venue, thus booking it and having it be a perfect fit for her daughter's Garden Party themed Bat Mitzvah.

We were thrilled to be here working at the Santa Barbara Club, and the theme and colors - so much fun!

We love when guests leave notes and words of wisdom (rather than just a guest book). Leaving it out for guests to share at their leisure throughout the reception or event allows time for all to think about what to say and share a lovely note with the guest(s) of honor.  In this occasion we purchased leaves and flowers to keep in theme w/ the event for guests to write on and hang on a manzanita branch.

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Wishing Cards Write A Wish

A great entertainment for any age, is getting temporary tattoos, flash tattoos or in this case Henna.  Here the guest of honor is getting some henna work done by the lovely Dee.  When you have a lot of guests, keep the designs simple so that each guest takes up a 10 minute window.

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Henna

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Drinks Beverage Garden

A "mockail' bar is a great element to include for the kids.  Here we have specialty drinks of Lily's Lemonade and Watermelon Crush.  Fun straws add to the festivities.

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Purple Nibbles

A scrumptious appetizer station for the adults include a charcuterie, cheeses and veggies, with the bread sticks doubling up as decor.

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Floral Arrangement Table Decor

The adult tables, indoors, had an elegant feel with the gorgeous white, green and dark purple color palate to compliment the aesthetics of the teal and purple linens, and bring the garden theme indoors.

We chose 3 different colors of Dupionique linens within the palate which worked out nicely inside the main dining room.

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Purple Blue Flowers Table

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Garden Purple Seating

Outdoors, the kids tables consisted of seated tables with window box centerpieces of greenery and pinwheels and low to the ground wooden tables with cups of Tulips and Lillys (for our guest of honor, Lily). The iridescent dupionique La Tavola pillows matched the linen and tied the design together.

Another fun element was the outdoor furniture (to the left) where both adults and kids were able to lounge on.  The seating arrangement by Elan Rentals was perfect for this setting.

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Garden Purple Lights Balloon

How and why are the kids all seated and attentive?

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Balloon Purple Pink Green Blue Table Seating Garden

…..Desserts, of course!  These mini bundt cakes were a huge hit!  We purchased paper decor shaped toppers tied in the garden party theme. We love incorporating the food and beverage into the theme.  Most caterers can do this without a problem, rather than having the same ol' same ol' menu, and it does not cost much to bring in touches or a menu that tie in with the theme.

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Cupcakes Purple Pink Colorful

One of our favorite design elements is how the 'wishing tree' (manzanita tree + floral stems + string lights) turned magical at night, and became a focal point as the sun set and it became dark.

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Purple Pink Blue Lights Garden Seating

We thanked guests as they left and favors were there ready for them to pick up.  Keeping with Lily's Garden Party theme, we had seed bombs (3 per pack) with a lovely thank you card to match the stationary as a moment for guests to remember this magical night.  What a great Bat Mitzvah!

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Favors Thank You Organza Bags Lilac Purple Mint Sign

Felici Events Bat Mitzvah Thank You Favor Organza Bags Seed Bombs

Coordinator - Felici Events

Dessert - Nothing Bundt Cakes

Flowers - Coco Rose Floral Design

Lighting - Spark Creative Events

Linens - La Tavola Fine Linen Rental

Music/ DJ - H2H The Perfect Element

Photobooth Flip Book - A Little Scene Flip Books

Photobooth - Complete Weddings & Events

Photography - Kelsey Crews Photo

Rentals - Furniture - Elan Event Rentals

Rentals - Dance Floor - Ventura Rental Party Center

Venue - Santa Barbara Club

Entertainment Brings Adults + Kids Together at Parties!

SMILE + SNAP! It's a Felici Events Bat Mitzvah

For any celebration, entertainment is a MUST have.  Personally, we like interactive entertainment to help bring the guests together and add a fun and exciting element to any event.  The integration of an Open Air Photobooth® provided an exciting activity for guests and subsequent receipt of professional quality keepsake photographs that will last a lifetime.

With the current social media trend, especially around mitzvah aged kids, having  Social Media Integration - Instant Email, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram feeds incorporated are a plus.

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And here is the token Felici Event Team "Quality Control" image.  FeliciTazioni Julia!

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Planner - Felici Events

Photobooth - Open Air Photo Booth

Colors + Candy + Creativity = #FeliciTimes Bat Mitzvah Celebration!

Dylan's Candy Inspired Bat Mitzvah

We were thrilled to have produced a 2nd celebration for our clients' youngest daughter's Bat Mitzvah this year (Ava celebrated her Graffiti Grunge Celebration in 2012) at Fess Parker Doubletree Resort, the Reagan Room.  The thing about producing kids events, is….well, I get to be a child again!  The vision, creativity and audience allows for more creativity, color and out of the box ideas.

My theory is that the theme starts the minute (BEFORE) you step into the room.  For this reason we had adult height decor greeting guests prior to entering the party room, in order to create anticipation and fluidity.

balloon decor ideas candy bar theme kid party

Once inside  the room, we set up an open air photo booth, a perfect occasion for the host(s) to stand and greet guests and step in for a photo op...

open air booth entertainment candy theme balloon decor

Cocktail hour on the patio was an adult-only zone with bar and lounge for those guests who wanted to step away from the activities. Magnificent Pacific Ocean view included.

Candy Bar Theme Bat Mitzvah pink decor

kids table candy decor theme Felici Events

To decorate the kids tables in a playful and tasteful way, we purchased floral sheeting which we found at our January conference in Anaheim.  The elegant La Tavola napkins were made into silverware rolls and held together by candy bracelets.

kid part entertainment idea slomo booth Felici Events

A slo-mo photo booth entertained both guests and adults alike. In fact, it was so much fun we have another blog post dedicated to it!

candy bar theme Felici Events Bat Mitzvah pink

A view of the room in its completion below.  The lounge areas gave a little separation between the adult and kids tables.  The topiaries you see on the kids tables were a crafting project made by mom + daughters and friends.  I always think personalizing your event somehow is a great idea!

The adult tables were elegantly presented using Dupionique La Tavola Linen and napkins wrapped in dots for a playful twist.

dots decor idea candy theme Felici Events

Family of the Bat Mitzvah Client

The floral sheeting was a great backdrop for the room, which created a WOW factor and added joviality to the hotel's banquet room.  Here is the whole client family together striking a pose.

The vibrant kids buffet turned into a dessert buffet to be enjoyed by all.

decor ideas dylan's candy bar Felici Events

Felici Events candy bar kid party

Candy Bar for Kids Party Candy Theme Felici Events

Bat Mitzvah guest of honor dancing for her event

How else to burn off the calories taken in at this delectable affair?  Why dancing of course!  Here is the guest of honor  starting a dance set with her BFF.

A HUGE Grazie Mille to our team of vendors who helped turned our clients' dream into a reality!

Photography - All Images by Kelsey Crews Photography

Flowers - Juniper Designs

Decor - Cathy Olson - Balloon Artist

Lighting - SPARK Creative Events

DJ - H2H The Perfect Element

Rentals - Town and Country Event Rentals

Linen - La Tavola Linens

Photobooth - Open Air Photo Booth

Slow Motion Booth - The Slow Motion Booth

Venue - Fess Parker Doubletree Resort 

Planning and Design - Zohe Felici, Felici Events

Felici Events Table Design at the Luxe Linen Showcase

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Felici Events displayed our wedding and event design skills recently, at Sherwood Country Club. Luxe Linens invited us to produce a table-top design of our choice, to showcase the 2015 line of new linens and napkins. Here is a video clip showing you the finished product as well as the wonderful team who helped us fulfill a little creative magic!

https://youtu.be/4_mxxRxN1Rg

We were tickled pink to be invited, which carried into our theme of a pink table top inspired by the 2011 movie 

Marie Antoinette

 (directed by Sofia Coppola, a fellow Italian-ite and Felici-favorite).

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We chose to showcase our table of eight using Luxe Linens' Sherbert Vogue.

Once we decided on the linens, Felici Events called on the the talents of a newer vintage rental company Otis and Pearl, to supply the silverware, china and glassware.

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Nina of Coco Rose Designs and the Felici Events Team could have spent hours in her storage unit looking at all the fun table top pieces.  In face, we may have.  Low and behold, it was easy for us to fall in love with the pink glassware you see at each table. Perfectly fitting for such a girly table top setting.

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Next, we asked for help from our friend and fellow

ISES-VSB 

member, Joost Bongaerts, owner of Florabundance, if he would like to contribute, and graciously he supplied all the floral.

The final touches, envisioned by Nina of Coco Rose Designs included the sweet fresh berries and delectable

macarons

 embellishing the table top.

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Finally, we chose the

Florence dining chairs

(both with arms and without) to complete the look of the dining table.  They were definitely the talk of our table amongst attendees and fellow showcasing peers.

It was absolute perfection.  The location, setting, details, event and evening.  Thank you Luxe Linens for including us in this project!

Grazie Mille to our contributors:

DESIGNER and VISIONARY: Felici Events

FLORIST: Coco Rose Design 

VINTAGE RENTALS: Otis and Pearl

CHAIR RENTAL: Revelry Event Designers

FLORAL PURVEYOR: Florabundance

Picturesque Santa Barbara Historical Museum Wedding

Sarah and Scott Church

It's Wedding Wednesday and the Felici Events team wants to celebrate this beautiful picturesque Santa Barbara Wedding! This #Felicified couple got married in the summer and were a wonder to work with! If you want to have a true Santa Barbara Wedding, follow these tips from a previous Felici Events wedding in honor of Scott and Sarah.

First off, this couple used not 1, not 2, but 3 different venues the day of! Talk about really using Santa Barbara to its fullest. The wedding party got ready at the Canary Hotel in downtown Santa Barbara which worked out perfectly since the rehearsal dinner the night before took place on the rooftop of the Canary Hotel. It is a really a unique and elegant venue; I mean, just look at this staircase!

Sarah and Scott Canary Staircase

Sarah and Scott Canary Fountain

The ceremony took place at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel which is a grandiose church at the foot of some of Santa Barbara's impressive mountains. The reception took place at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum which is filled of Old-Spanish decor and ambiance. Of course when you have more than one venue, the transportation plays a big role on this special day. The Felici Events team decided to work with EOS shuttles for guests and Santa Barbara Trolley for the wedding party. It is really important that if your wedding takes place in multiple locations you provide transportation, if possible. Your guests will truly be thankful and overall will allow more guests to be on time since they are all together. It saves you and your wedding coordinator headaches later on! Besides, having transportation can allow all your guests to get to know each other a little better. Not to mention, it provides another source of fun for your wedding party!

Sarah and Scott Trolley

Sarah and Scott Wedding Party Trolley

When it comes to Santa Barbara, old-Spanish and adobe architecture is all around! It really gives it that picturesque feel. As for the reception decor, the Felici Events team and the bride and groom worked together to choose the color palette that really compliments that, specifically the Historical Museum adobe tile and wooden structure. Great job and a special thanks to Stems Floral for making it happen! Just look at the beautiful centerpieces and bouquet with the hints of peach and pink that really compliments the Historical Museum (and even the church as well)!

Sarah and Scott Church Outside

Sarah and Scott Musuem

Sarah and Scott Centerpiece Floral

And of course to keep that theme going, the Felici Events team designed the rest of the decor to match! The Felici Events team believes that wedding signage is really important, but more so it adds special touches that help tie the theme together! In this case, the reception sign was made from an old piece of wood that the bride and groom got. If you don't have a crafty friend or the resources or even time to make it there are ways to get signs like this made on Etsy or other companies. We recently got Dana Decals to make a few decals for some signs at a different wedding and they came out spectacular!

Sarah and Scott Mr and Mrs

Sarah and Scott Reception Sign

Now, although this picturesque Santa Barbara Wedding looks amazing as is, you can always incorporate your own personal touches! For example, this Felici bride and groom had a big thing for cognac, so a cognac and cigar bar was made at the reception and it was a big hit! Something like this makes your wedding more personalized and is made for all guests to enjoy and share with you! (P.S. Notice the orange and peach accents continue onto the pillows!)

Sarah and Scott Cognac Bar

To make this wedding possible we needed all the help we could get so the Felici Events team wants to thank everyone involved and especially Chris Schmitt Photography for these amazing pictures!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

What is LOVE?

As a wedding planner, I get to experience first-hand what love is.

Whether it be between the engaged couple, a bride and her parents, the groom and his parents or the extended family and friends:

Love is an expected guest attending every wedding ceremony and reception.

Love does not get an invite, does not RSVP and does not receive a Thank You Card.

Zohe Felici wedding planner loves her job

For me:

I love my parents, friends and family.

I love my dog.

I love my profession (the pic above speaks for itself, a candid taken during a Felici Event).

I love my work friends.

I love where I live.

I have so much to be overwhelmed with love about, I am extremely fortunate.

Sharing the Felici-Love on this very special day, thank you for partaking in my journey (of life) with me.

XOXO!

Zohe Felici

Tented Birthday Celebration Dinner Party

Felici Events Presents: Event & Wedding Planning 101:

Weather: Plan A, B and C

Today we are relishing a bit of (very welcome) rain at Felici Headquarters.  A wet and rainy day like today reminds me of a Felici Event we produced, exactly nine months ago (plus one day), where an uninvited guest showed up - DOWNPOUR!

Last March, I had the honor of working with a Felici Client on her 50th birthday celebration.  The guest of honor wanted to host thirty close friends to a special (not your traditional Saturday night potluck) dinner party at her home.  The lovely clients' home is amidst Mission Canyon, Santa Barbara.  The first time I drove up to her home, I found myself in a gorgeous cul-de-sac type driveway that led to her front door.  There is lush landscaping and a working fountain encompassing it.  "What a magical spot!" I thought to myself.

The client's vision of design was a blend of romance and Mediterranean.  Hanging candle votives, fruits, herbs and vegetables inclusive in the centerpieces, candlelight and an elegantly neutral palate of linens, chairs and table top set up.

Felici Events Wedding Planner place setting

During our meeting, and walk thru of the potential spaces for dinner, I shared with the client that the house was not conducive to accommodate all guests seated together for a plated dinner.  I reminded the client that she hired me to make this night special, and it needed to set other (informal) dinner parties apart.  I suggested the use of the driveway as the dinner space.  Once I proposed to her the vision and schematics of a 'reveal' to the tented dinner area, the client fell in love with the idea!

The planning of the dinner event took place the months of January and February.  Santa Barbara provided beautiful weather and sunny skies every day leading up to the March 1st weekend.  Regardless of our gorgeous weather (common along the American Riviera) my experience as a seasoned event and wedding planner is to produce three plans. This time it had to do with rain:

Plan A - a tented event, in case of rain (the first week of March usually produces precipitation)

Plan B - great weather with no tent (al fresco)

Plan C - an indoor and less formal dinner in case of a torrential downpour.

Instantly I brought on the talents of Coco Rose Design and The Tent Merchant as the team to help me create Ann's dream into a reality.  The Tent Merchant's octagonal tent would fit perfectly in the driveway and easily accommodate 30 guests.  We brainstormed a couple of different layout options, and settled on having votives hanging from the center of the tent and the tables parallel to the tent walls, in an octagonal shape (single sided facing in) so all could see each other.  PERFECT!

The caterer, Chef Robin Goldstein, was a gem to work with!  She created an out of this world menu consisting of farm-to-table fresh foods, with authentic mediterranean preparation.  All the key vendors were in place and so the party begins!

Felici Events Birthday inside tent

Felici Events Birthday mediterranean Centerpieces

You guessed it.  The week-end of the birthday party, there is a torrential downpour!  We experienced heavy rains all morning (there is even a YouTube video of the Santa Barbara Harbor being overcome by large waves) throughout the Southern California area.  I had not seen flash floods since my days in Dallas, Texas

The morning of the party, I drove to the house and found the tent (which was set up the day before) to have rivers running thru it!  The client, understandably stressed, expressed disappointment with the turn of events.*   I reassured her that the dinner would be perfect, and I would do everything in my power to ensure vision of the event.  I urged her to go her hair and make up appointments, and enjoy a day of pampering.  It took some time to console and comfort her, but reluctantly on her way she went escorted with a gal pal.

Mid afternoon, when the florist arrived, we looked at the weather radar which showed patterns of the rain dissipating around 4 p.m.  Guests would not be invited into the dinner tent until 6:30 p.m.  Could we pull it off?  The florist and caterer both confirmed that if by 5:45 p.m. there was no chance of holding the dinner outside, we would be able to move to plan C - placing design items and set a buffet in the living and dining areas for an indoor affair.

I was in the pouring rain for hours, successfully producing make-shift gutters (my alter ego is MacGyver) to deter rain around rain and not thru the tent.  Once complete I swept, mopped and dry vacuumed the inside of the tent.  The threatening red marks on the weather radar, eventually turned to light green specs.  The rain turned to sprinkles, and by 5:15 p.m. all was dry inside the canopy.  With all hands on deck and teamwork, we were ready to go by 6:00 p.m. The heaters in the tent warmed up the space, and combined with the candle light, gorgeous table decor and background music created the most romantic and cozy dinner setting I have produced outdoors after a downpour.

My favorite part is this unique and personalized touch of a play of MadLibs.  We called it "AnnLib" and it substituted a guest book.  The Felici Events graphics team created a cartoon of the client using her picture and added it to a customized MadLib for guests to fill out.

Felici Events creative guest book Mad Libs Cartoon

Felici Events unique party idea madlibs at each place setting

Felici Events wedding planning outside tent looking in

The birthday gal came to take a sneak peek before we invited guests to the 'grand reveal' of dinner, and tears of joy came to her eyes.  She was beyond ecstatic!  This party was not only #anotherfelicievent but one of the most rewarding moments in my career.  We really do turn dreams into a reality (thank you mother nature for keeping me on my toes).  Needles to say hostess and guests had a wonderful time and we created memories for all.  #anotherfelicievent

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*Felici Fact: tenting will keep rain from falling on your head, but not water from coming up below.

Santa Barbara Wedding Miguel + Matt

Same Sex Elopement by Felici Events

Santa Barbara Courthouse & Sunken Gardens

When I wear my wedding planning hat, I have to say that I LOVE love…..I mean it!  Hearing stories of how couples meet, seeing their vision come to fruition, and then ogling the moments in time that the wedding photographer has captured.

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Matt and Miguel are no exception.  We had about two weeks to plan their elopement without meeting the happy-couple and get all their wedding details into play.  When I met with them the night before their wedding, I fell in love with these two, and their story.

Miguel and Matt met at Miguel's place of work, a hair salon in Phoenix.  Matt had been a loyal customer for years, and Miguel had just moved to town, and recently started working at the salon.  Matt says his regular stylist was handling his appointment as usual, but he could not keep his eyes off Miguel.  It was love at first sight.  On his next appointment, Matt requested Miguel as his hair dresser. Needless to say, Matt is now loyal to his stylist and getting the best haircuts ever.

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding dog ring barer

The couple was on the fence about having their dog be in the wedding or at the Santa Barbara Courthouse and Sunken Gardens, and  I confidently told them that they should have a ring bearer, and that the pup would be fine inside the courthouse and around the grounds.  I had not event met the pooch, but I am glad they took me up on my advice, who doesn't love that cute boxer mug!  The nice thing about Santa Barbara is that it is extremely dog friendly, so that makes it perfect for dog-lovers and owners like myself.

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding elopement

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding elpoement posed shots with dog

In retrospect, I think the pup stole the show.

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding groom ceremony

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding grooms and dog

In these picture I love the boutonnières and ties that oppose each other.  Matt sent me images of the ties beforehand so that I could match the ribbon with the florist.  Thank you to Kaleidoscope Flowers for doing a great job!

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding grooms exchanging rings

Seriously, the image below looks as if there is a fake backdrop, but NOPE, Santa Barbara and the American Riviera is that gorgeous! I live it every day and appreciate the beauty and backdrops this town offers.

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding grooms view from the top

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding kiss on the cheek

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding ring exchange

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding showing off rings

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding steps and sunken garden dog ring barer

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding tower top

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding walking down the hallway

In this image, I get a kick out of  the wedding bands.  I had no idea the formed a heart until I saw them take this picture.  What a great personalization and detail to come full circle about LOVING love!  Congratulations Miguel and Matt!

santa barbara courthouse gay wedding wedding rings

A huge thank you to Amy at Vita-Bella Photography for these amazing images.

Mr. Towbes Birthday Celebration at Bacara Resort and Spa

Felici Events Produces an Entertaining Brunch Celebration

Felici Events was honored to have been part of another grand celebration for the accomplishments, love and birthday celebration of Mr. Towbes, Santa Barbara's own "It's a Wonderful Life" (Zohe produced Mr. Towbes 80th at Fess Parker Doubletree)

This time, we had a double whammy with putting this event together at Bacara Resort and Spa.  Everything is grand at Bacara, event the entrance, impressive!

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th Bacara Entry

The gracious and gorgeous Anne, Mr. Towbes wife, was instrumental in creating this event and guiding Felici Events to a personalized affair!  Here is the happy couple just minutes before guests arrived.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th Anne and Michael

We created life-size cutouts of the guest of honor and placed them around the resort for guests to take pictures with.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th standing with lifesize

Being Mr. Santa Barbara created a receiving line which showed exactly that!  Everyone who is everyone came to wish him a happy birthday!

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th greeting guests

The guest of honor is an avid tennis player, so the talents of Louloudi Design incorporated this hobby into the centerpieces.  They looked lovely on La Tavola Linens with linear definitions.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th table set up floral orange linen

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th Rotunda Room Bacara

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th tennis racket signage

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th floral centerpiece with tennis ball

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th wide lens orange table decor

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th Rotunda Terrace Orange Decor

After brunch, we moved the 275 person event to the ballroom, where we had four performances or acts celebrating Mr. Towbes and his love and support of the arts and music as well as other surprises and personalizations celebrating his interests and  accomplishments.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th ladies kissing cheeks lifesize

The Towbes Group Inc. is an award-winning and respected construction, development and asset management company.  We had a life-size cutout of the honoree supporting the Cottage Hospital Project.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th Lifesize Architect

The honoree is also known as the owner and Chairman of the Board of Montecito Bank and Trust.  Here we produced a 'money tree' with oversized ficus and a Towbes Bucks garland.  Did you know people have been known to try to use the Towbes Bucks in town?!

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th Money Tree

We set the ballroom into dinner theatre style small tables so all guests could see the performances.  At each table were programs, popcorn bowls and a low cylinder of floating candles wrapped in blueprints of the Cottage Hospital Project.  The red pens, personalized with Mr. Towbes Still Swingin' at 85' were party favors representative of Mr. Towbes use of them for using in his editing and return correspondence.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th ballroom table set up

The State Street Ballet danced while guests arrived into the ballroom.  Mr. Towbes is a longtime support and passionate of this local professional ballet company.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th state street ballet

During the brunch and performances, the Felici Events Team gathered all the 'momentos of Mr. Towbes' (the invitation asked guests to bring those in lieu of gifts), and produced two scrap books.  Carrie, Mr. Towbes daughter and Anne presented this surprise gift to the man of the hour.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th presenting album

Let there be cake!  We replicated the invitation cover picture of the the man of the hour playing tennis onto a sheet cake.

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th birthday cake

Hope you made a wish!  Happy Birthday Mr. Towbes.  You are truly a genuine, altruistic, generous and kind man, and Santa Barbara is lucky to have you as a leader and philanthropist in our community!

Michael Towbes Birthday 85th blowing out candles

I do. It Differently.

Pouffed, wrapped, adorned, or tucked...veils don't always have to be what you'd expect!

There are so many different ways to wear your veil for your special day or to not wear one!

Veils-Large and Elegant

Veils-Short Elegant

You can wear a traditional white veil and pouf it out to make it large and elegant or you can wear a short white one instead You can always mess around with tule and make a simple bow

Alternative Veil

Veils-Orange Flower

You can also opt for the traditional white color but wear it like a headpiece instead Adorn it by using lace or add color with some flowers

Flower Crown Bright

Flower Crown Organic

Flower Crown

Flower Crown Simple

Hair Flower Jewels

Elle.com also offers an insight on veils by offering 9 Gorgeous Alternatives to the traditional veil including wearing a flower crown and scattered jewels

For more extravagant alternative bridal veils BeSpoke Brides has their top 13 list or you can check out Bridal Headpieces on Pinterest!

Felici Events Presents - Santa Barbara's Third Annual Halloween Costume Party

Voodoo Lounge

INSANITY under the STARS…

…….Rooftop HALLOWEEN DANCE PARTY!

October 31, 2014

One week left until Felici Event’s annual Halloween Costume Dance Party at the Canary Rooftop.

• Buy your tickets via Nightout.com using this link to experience “Insanity Under the Stars”!
• $45 pre-sale, based on availability.
• Pre-purchase your ticket and receive $5 off by typing FIVEOFF in the promo code bar (based on availability, not available at the door)
• Like our Voodoo Lounge Facebook Page for a chance to win free tickets!!

DJ Scott Topper is sure to get everyone's booty moving to the rooftop and then the dance floor!  Find ideas for your Halloween Costume here, get your dancing shoes on, and come join us in all the fun.

Kelsey Crews Photography will be taking pictures of you and your friends in costumes!

Felici Events Costume Halloween 2013 Voodoo

Felici Events Halloween Voodoo 2013 Costume

Felici Events Voodoo Halloween Costume

OTHER FUN STUFF HAPPENING THAT NIGHT:

• Kappa Pisco’s shot ghouls are serving up some witch’s brew, pisco tastings and gifting schwag and promotional items.
• $$$$ Costume Contest $$$$ 250 cash prize for the winner and Dinner for 2 at Finch and Fork Restaurant  for the second place
• Haunted Action Photo Booth
• Voodoo Altar
• Dancing Zombies Welcome!
• Go-go dancers
• Surprise Entertainment

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

DETAILS

Canary Hotel 31 W Carrillo St. Santa Barbara, CA, 93101 Friday, October 31, 2014 9:00pm to 1:00am PDT

*MUST BE 21 OR OLDER TO ATTEND. Any ticket holder unable to present valid identification indicating that they are at least 21 years of age will not be admitted to this event and will not be eligible for a refund. Rain or Shine. Tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE. No Ins & Outs

Enjoy this video of Felici Events' Halloween Dance Rooftop Party from last year - created by Kelsey Crews Photography

Felici Events Presents Three Holiday Parties

Holiday Party Ideas

As we quickly approach the holiday season, Felici Events brings you ideas for your private or corporate party!

Inspired by Biz Bash: The Holiday Issue we share three seasonal holiday themes sure to please your guests!

Classic Holiday

Christmas Table

Take out your ornaments and red candles! Make your holiday parties with classic themes like the nutcracker or holiday movies and use traditional decorations to bring the joy of the season! Hang up lights, wreaths, and trees, feel free to add a pine cone or two in there. For food, you can make appetizers based off dinners such as a turkey cranberry crostini, chicken kebabs or pizza bites in traditional holiday shapes. Be sure to decorate your table with a classic gingerbread house!

Food Cutouts

Christmas Kebabs

Gingerbread House

Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland is a modern theme that looks elegant and transforms your venue into an entirely different place! With Disney's "Frozen" and ice being all the rage, having a winter wonderland themed party can be the perfect theme for your holiday party! Decorate with snowflakes, crystals, blue lights, crystals and silver decor.  Be sure to have a hot cocoa bar to warm your guests up!

Hot Cocoa Bar

Winter Wonderland Center Piece

Winter Lights

Try something innovative with live ice sculpting!

Live ice scultping

The Ice Beat Factory is an exciting performance ice show combining ice sculpting with live music.

Offbeat Bash

Many modern holiday parties are saying no to the traditional holiday themed parties and going for a more offbeat theme like a masquerade ball or as Biz Bash demonstrates, a circus theme.  Another theme idea could be a Brother's Grimm theme with Once Upon a Time, Grimm, and Disney's upcoming film, Into the Woods serving as inspiration. There's so many possibilities with this theme, guests can come dressed as their favorite fairy tale characters and the ideas for decorations are endless!

Fairy Tale Invitation

Fairy Tale Chandelier

Get creative with invitations to inspire guests and decorate with grand chandeliers to create a more spectacular fantasy!

Fairy Tale Center Pieces

Flower Centerpiece

Take inspiration from Brother's Grimm fairy tales for centerpieces such as a single rose or a candelabra!

Feel free to use a specific fairy tale or just combine them all to make an enchanted venue! Have some caramelized apples or Alice in Wonderland cake for dessert! Be sure to checkout Cody's Cocktails inspired by fairy tale creatures that are sure to be remembered at your holiday party! This one below is called "Maleficent" and contains black vodka, grape schnapps, and apple pucker!

Poison Apples

Maleficent cocktail

Whatever you decide for your theme, holiday parties should create a festive and joyous occasion!

Stress free holiday parties with Felici Events

The holidays parties are coming near

Don't stress yourself you need not fear

To the rescue we come to bring good cheer

We got you covered, Felici Events is here!

holiday_postcard_front

Felici Events is an upscale full service event planning company specializing in innovative parties from intimate soirees to grand-scale galas.

10% of the proceeds are donated to Teddy Bear Foundation or Unity Shoppe

Relieve your stress today and click here for more information!

For more tips for a less stressful holiday parties click here

(805)895-3402

3rd Annual Voodoo Lounge Halloween Dance Party

Felici Events & Scott Topper present:

VOODOO LOUNGE

INSANITY under the STARS...

...Rooftop HALLOWEEN DANCE PARTY!

Friday, October 31, 2014 - 9:00 pm to 1:00 am Featuring DJ Scott Topper   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eI2R6D13fD4   Canary Hotel, Downtown Santa Barbara 31 West Carrillo Street - $45 pre-sale, based on availability - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - $ $ $ Costume Contest $ $ $ 1st place - $250 CASH 2nd place - Brunch for 2 at Finch & Fork - Haunted Action Photo Booth - Voodoo Altar - Dancing Zombies Welcome! - Spirited Drink Specials

Receive $5 off admission October 1st through October 5th at 12:00am (one per person) 

Promo code: "5OFF"

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Check our Facebook page for promotional offers and contests to win free tickets!