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One Year Remembrance...

As promised, my NOH8 shot just in time for the one year anniversary when californian same sex couples were slapped in the face with Proposition 8. Spread the love and the word to overturn this colossal injustice in 2010.

NO H8

Sorry its been a while! I have been so busy prepping for the Charity Masquerade Gala that I am hosting (and also planning) on October 24th for Look Good, Feel Better. In even more exciting news my fabulous publicist Kira from Anderson Group Public Relations scheduled me for a photo shoot tomorrow for the NOH8 campaign! Cant wait! Make sure to check back for the pics from the shoot!

Sweet TwentyFive

This beautiful birthday Party took place in Laguna Beach on Friday evening. My client asked me to plan a decadent evening for her and her ten closest friends from start to finish. A private chef prepared the Hors Devours and five course meal paired with a fabulous assortment of specialty wines. The night was furthered by a wonderful choice of music and a red velvet cake from Susie Cakes in Newport Beach.... The night was fantastic and my client had a blast ringing in her 25th year. (Planning, Decor and Floral all by Luxe Life Events).

New York; the city that never sleeps

Perez Hilton and I at the Launch of CocoPerez.com

Mike Stagliano (The Bachlorette) at his performance at The Annex in the East Village

Celebrity Fashion stylist Daniel Rabenou (Gastineau Girls) and I caught during a good laugh

Just after D&G Dolce and Gabbana's "Fashion Night Out" Party in celebration of Fashion Week

Aubrey O'Day (Danity Kane) and I after Maxim Magazine Photoshoot

Celebity Hair Stylist Eva Martinez and I just before a meeting at the Gansevoort Hotel

Connor Paolo (Gossip Girl) and I at Marquesa

Manic for Marquesa

One of the many amazing experiences I had during my time in New York was the Marquesa fashion show. Unlike a traditional show (with a runway), Marquesa opted for the more low-key viewing type of show. This show format made it much easier to appreciate the artwork of the gowns and the detail that each possessed. Truly pieces of art, each and every dress had the "wow" factor. This one pictured above was possibly my favorite. What a choice for the bride looking for the true princess fairytale dress!

LA-NYC

Tomorrow is the big trip I have been waiting on all summer, my trip to New York! I am so excited to visit my hometown... it has been almost a year since I had the chance to spend some real time with my family, friends and the city. Two huge suitcases and a carry-on and a few hours in the air and ill be home!

During my stay I have plenty of exciting things planned; dinner with many groups of friends, exploring new nightlife that has opened since I moved, time in the country with my family, a site tour of the New York Public Library and The Plaza, FASHION WEEK, a shoot for Maxim Magazine with Aubrey O'Day of Danity Kane and The Allure Beauty event!

SO excited! Many posts and pictures about my time there is certainly to come! Check back in the next few days!

Best,

Billy

New York meets Miami in Manhattan Beach

Yesterday after a full day of meetings in LA, I had a meeting on my back to Laguna. My stop was at the fabulous Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach. The cool beach chic hotel is accented with modern fixtures, unique ideas and a wonderful location and was designed by the famous Christopher Lowell. From the lush rooms that wrap you up in rich colors and textures with full jacuzzi tubs in each to the trendy, yet understated, roof top terrace this hotel seems influenced by its bigger counter parts in places like South Beach or New York City. Owned by a restauranteur the hotel boast a fabulous and innovative menu for both a casual dinner with friends or the menu for your wedding or event.

If you are feeling the radiant vibes from this MB venue then you will also have the pleasure of working with a bright and youthful team of professionals, kind of like a "gift with purchase." Jolise Vought, events manager for Shade, and her bright sassy group will certainly serve up a festive yet elegant flare for any of your event needs!

Different Girls, Different Dresses...

Seldom does a bride have a wedding party comprised of women who all have the same build. Instead of putting the size 0 and the size 12 in the same dress try finding similar styles that offer flattering lines for each different body type. Whether you choose different colors for each dress to accent your overall theme, or choose the always daring color of black in a slew of different styles, try to think outside of the box. There is no reason to make your friends suffer through your entire day due to being uncomfortable in the attire that you have chosen. Give them something flattering that enhances who they are. Not only will they feel better about their ensemble but the pictures will look better as well!

A Palatial Experience

When in pursuit of the perfect venue, often times my clients become perplexed. Rarely do venues match up to their vision... Its hard to walk into a bare space and imagine what it could become. There are a few venues where this is not a problem. Places like the Pelican Hill Resort in Newport Coast, the Mar-a-lago Club in Palm Beach and the New York Public Library on New York's Fifth Avenue. My favorite of the above is the Library in New York. One of the most enchanting venues I have visited. With towering ceilings, walls composed strictly of marble and a Forum space with glass ceilings, they couldn't build something so grand today. The different spaces have an overall feel of elegance and once your inside, you forget that you are in the center of one of the world's largest cities. The New York public library offers phenomenal spaces that are sure to please any bride, but it comes with a price! ($20,000 site rental per space.)

Luxurious Linens

In a world that seems to have less and less "professionals" diligently working, it is always refreshing to meet one who knows her game. One of three meetings I had this afternoon was with Kimberly Currin of BBJ Linen, which has offices across the map, but here in Orange County we can find their nearest showroom in Culver City (Los Angeles). Kimberly is a fresh, young and bright professional who reps BBJ in OC. Her professional demeanor and creative mind set made our meeting feel more like an encounter with an old friend rather than business oriented. I must say, BBJ has one of the largest varieties of linens around, and no matter where you are on the map they can send it to you with a addressed package for the return shipment when your event is complete!

(Pictured above is one of BBJ new specialty linens called "Adele Lamour.")

Arriving In Style

No matter what the style of the wedding, brides and (most) grooms all have a very specific way they would like to arrive on their big day. For one of my clients, their arrival will be in the most opulent and luxurious vehicles imaginable; the Rolls Royce Phantom (pictured above). Both bride and groom will arrive separately in their own private Phantom accompanied by the best man and maid of honor. I must say, this wedding has been so fun to work on and we certainlly have cut no corners!

Love, The Label that Never Goes out of Style

Yet another post about my muze, Carrie Bradshaw. What can I say the movie has been practically in loop on HBO and I cannot tear myself away, ever. Partially because I miss my hometown, the cement jungle, and also because, well, a lot of my business is centered around love (duh). One of the many famous quotes from the movie, states "Love, the label that never goes out of style." I like this quote because it is oh so true...

As you fanatically go through hanger after hanger in your closet draped in garments that have gone out since you so happily purchased them (for what was probably way too much), there is always one classic that you fall back on, that without fail, always looks great, feels great and the one thing you wear time after time. Love, is one of those things that no matter what, or who it is, looks fantastic on everyone. There is no spring in your step or glow on your face like when falling or being in love.

There is not a specific reason for this post other than sharing the things that I love, and that inspire me in what I do everyday; to inpisre you me readers and loyal followers. Food for thought...

xo-B

Carrie Bradshaw: Fiction or Reality?

When creating a blog based upon love, and of course weddings, there are many things that come to mind. One of which is the master of all things love; Carrie Bradshaw (played by Sarah Jessica Parker in Sex and the City). Candace Bushnell's vision for such an inspiring women in pursuit of love and the "fairytale," is, without question, phenomenally executed...

The question the lies with me, however, is it fiction or reality? Obviously the tales of Carrie and her three fabulous friends as they conquer the concrete jungle I fondly refer to as "home," and most people call New York, are in fact fiction. However, my thoughts refer to the stories she tells... For six seasons Carrie's delicate life unfolded for viewers around the globe and we were all enticed as she conquered and failed. What I cannot help but recognize is that Carrie's failures are so close to mine, and so close to that of my own fabulous friends.

For the person in love, or the person searching for it, fact or fiction, Sex and the City is truly a fantastic reference for all things love and luxury.

The Last Thing You Hear

"Ever thine, ever mine, ever ours..." These famous words are those of none other than Beethoven. The reason I feel the need to share this with all of my readers is because it raises an interesting question; to write or not to write??

Not a novel or fairytale, but the words that will be the last you hear, and say, before beginning the rest of your life, your vows. My clients often ask my opinion (because they know I have many), about whether or not they should write their own vows... My answer is definitely yes.

Traditionally, Brides and Grooms state the following, "I, (Bride), take you, (Groom), for my lawful wife/husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and health, until death do us part." I believe that in order to spend your life with someone you must really know who they are, and who the two of you are. I don't think the words that are to define, or begin, the rest of your life with someone should be written by someone else or repeated by so many others before you. The words to begin your marriage should be defined by the two of you. Make it specific to you and the person who you have chosen to stand in front of you during that very special, life altering moment. Discuss or touch upon the things that are truly special to the both of you or research a quote from a classic master that you can relate to.

Take the initial steps of your lives together with something that is special and specific as the two of you are... Find something that defines your individual relationship, the love you feel for eachother or the thoughts you are basing your future on with that phenomenal match you have found....

Long story short, when choosing to write, or not to write... Write.

Is it an Emerald or a Diamond?

Its an Emerald cut diamond, and its one of my favorites. Besides cushion cut, the emerald cut is my number one. There is something about he stone when its cut in this shape that is absolutely stunning... especially when the center stone is accompanied by others on either side!

A Hamptons Summer

One of the most luxurious ways to spend your summer is in The Hamptons, (a small enclave of little vintage towns situated about 2 hours due east of New York City). With the right connections, or a decedent of blue blood, one may have the opportunity to experience the most fantastic and luxurious parties the Hamptons has to offer; Bridgehampton Polo.

The Mercedes Benz Polo Challenge is exactly what inspired Ralph Lauren when he decadently appointed the line that has given way to our favorite summer shirts. In the above picture I am with my client Beth, (to be Married near Martha's Vineyard next fall) as we entered the posh tents of the Polo games for a few glasses of champagne and some old world sportsmanship.

Not only are the Hamptons a playground for the rich and famous, and home of the Polo tournament, but also a fabulous place to host a destination wedding. With miles of breathtaking seashores, sophisticated "big city" vendors and a plethora of venues, the Hamptons are like no other place.

Leave White for the Bride.

After watching one of my favorite wedding themed movies this weekend, Monster in Law, I have recognized yet another one of my wedding pet peeves, women (other than the bride) who wear white! I have seen this time and time again in my own wedding experience and it takes all of my strength to not say anything! At the end of the movie, as one last attempt to insult and hurt Charlie (JLo's character) Viola (played by Jane Fonda) comes to the wedding in a beautiful, but terribly out of place, white gown; a sly and insulting move of Fonda's part. Unless you want to steal the brides thunder, the only woman in white should be the bride. I think it is one of the most selfish, insulting acts someone can make... Save white for your own day and let the bride have her moment, it is her day after all, not yours.

Jane really is a sweet lady...

Saturday afternoon I had the pleasure of meeting with Jane of Sweet Lady Jane Bakery in West Hollywood. It truly is no wonder how Jane has created such a wonderful business. Her cakes were absolutely delectable. I barely had enough room to try all six different types ranging from chocolate mouse with chocolate cake to of course, red velvet and a white cake with whip cream and berries. Jane not only let me taste her cakes but she gave me a tour of the kitchen! What a wonderful set up! Jane's team really are masters of their trades, from the actual bakers, to her cake artist who was sculpting a masterful cake while we watched...

I loved the people, the cake and the store! Working on a Saturday has never been so sweet!

An encounter with a View

Brittany Kalter, creative visionary behind the fabulously feminie Britt Productions, and I met yesterday for a little brainstorming and some mojitos at one of my favorite Laguna Beach hotspots, Rooftop. I invited Britt to meet me at Rooftop, because not only is it a great place to meet friends, but a wonderful place to watch the waves crash while hosting your engagement party, shower or rehersal dinner, (there is an area specifically for private functions).

Britt's video productions are truely well done. She certainlly understands what moments to capture and posesses the creative gene to make your wedding day video as fantastic as you had imagined...

Look forward to some wonderful collaborations between Brit Productions and Luxe Life!

Surf meets Swank in Huntington Beach

On Thursday I took a top down drive up Pacific Coast Highway to visit the newly opened ShoreBreak Hotel in "Surf City." The boutique hotel boasts lively colors, wonderful artwork inspired by life at the beach, casual yet stylized furnishings and a beautifully appointed yet intimate ballroom. One of the many things that may not cross your mind when thinking about Huntington Beach is professionalism, in a town known for its "gnarly waves," and "hot chicks," however you have yet to meet the fabulous staff of Shorebreak. I was greeted by Senior Catering manager Stacey Hofflich, who has been with Joie de Vivre, the hotels owner, for some time, and it truly shows. Her excellent advice, welcoming demeanor and friendly persona certainly places ShoreBreak on my list of venue/site recommendations. (And the coffee is great!)

My Inspiration...

In the movie, When Harry Met Sally, Nora Ephron eloquently states,“When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.” This flawless interpretation of love is the very thing that motivates me in my work everyday. The sparkle in a Brides eyes as she floats across the floor during her first dance, or the chemistry that is so blatantly obvious when two people sit before me to explain their every expectation of the "big day," or the adoring and proud look in the groom's eyes as his bride makes her way down the aisle are the very reasons I am so passionate about creating luxurious, once in a lifetime experiences.

There is something about Nora's words that, as my eyes took them in for the first time, my heart skipped a beat. It is an honor to be an integral part of creating the foundation for a couples' lives together. Someone once said that "passion is what leads people to success." My passion is to build that foundation, to see two people so eager to start "the rest of their lives," and to create memories that will be held so dear for years to come...

Diamonds, A Man's Best Friend?

A growing trend that I happen to love, has got men talking carats. Increasingly more often I have been seeing wedding bands for men like the one above. With the black diamond trend on the rise, men are now finding themselves looking down at a hand that shines similar to their new counterpart, the Bride.

(Pictured above is a band by Jacob and Co. Available at the Jacob and Co. Townhouse Salon, E. 57th St, New York City.)

The Bachelorette, Season 5

Many of you may recongize this guy... you should. Mike Stagliano appeared in this past season of ABC's hit show "The Bachelorette." Mike happens to be one of my best friends from New York where we met about four years ago. Mike was a fantastic addition to the show until Jillian made the grave mistake of choosing someone else.

Mike is rare in the sense that not only does he have the looks, he has got the brains as well. With a book on the verge of being published, a great joke always up his sleeve and a heart of gold Mike is not likely to be a bachelor for long... and we cant wait to plan the wedding! Good luck buddy!

Go Big

There are a few things that should be big on your wedding day. The ring for starters, but secondly, your bouquet. Its the "biggest day of your life," you are allowed to go slightly over board. One of my favorite bridal trends is large full bouquets. I have never really been a fan of "cascading" bouquets, I prefer for my brides to take a more traditional approach when it comes to their personal flowers; lush, round and monotoned. Pictured above (yellow peonies) is a prime example of one of my favorite looks. Not only are these flowers lush and elegant but their fragrance has been sought after by couture perfumers for years. If peonies are not your flower of choice an all rose bouquet also looks phenomenal on a large scale.

J'adore

I had to share this photo with everyone for many reasons. First of all the bride pictured above has followed my golden rule. (Check out the shoes!) Secondly, I love the concept of this shot... the elegance of the store front combined with the harsh city scape and the flowing sophistication of the bride and her dress makes for a delectable art inspired shot in your album. Lastly, THE DRESS! Designed by Cymbeline Paris, it is is the perfect combination of intricate details, elegance and femininity.



You can find locations like this around the globe: Avenue Montaigne, Paris; East 57th, New York; Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills.

Simply Sexy.

With Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Fast approaching this September in New York, my curiosity for 2010's couture is driving me nuts. In an effort to feed this fashion crazed hunger that lingers in my thoughts this time every year I decided to do some research. Much to my surprise, I came across newly published shots from fashion icon Carolina Herrera's Bridal Collection. It goes without saying that the gowns are nothing short of fabulous but there was one in particular (pictured above) that really grabbed my attention.

The chic creation I am speaking of is the "Sandro Botticelli" gown from the 2010 collection. Named after the 16th Century Florentine painter, the design of the dress certainly is not shy of its renaissance roots. The gown flows in an almost liquid fashion. It's comprised of jersey material and immaculately detailed with satin bands resting below the bust.

Simplicity, effortless grace and femininity are a few of the sexiest qualities a women can have, and which all should possess. For these reasons I am drawn to the Botticelli gown, wearing it ensures elegance of angelic proportions on your wedding day.

Available at most Saks Fifth Avenue Bridal Salons, Kleinfelds and The Carolina Herrera Boutique, Madison Avenue, NYC or Melrose Place, West Hollywood

A Laguna Beach Affair

I had the pleasure to attend Riviera Magazine's Party last night in Laguna Beach at the Cavallari Estate in the gated community of Three Arch Bay. The party was in coordination with Smart Water who is currently putting efforts fourth to aid children's charities by giving the gift of education in third world countries. The event was flawless, the 7,000 square foot estate was a phenomenal venue to host the party, catering by Chili Co made sure that everyone was fed with unique and delicious hours d'evours and DJ Milo Rock spun great classics all night. This luxurious event was certainly a destination for fabulous attendees and Orange County's glitterati.

Susie Cakes

Today I had a cake tasting with Susie Cakes at their Newport Beach location. I don't know where to begin... Susie Cakes is styled after an old fashioned all American Bake Shop. The space itself is clean, lacks unattractive clutter, and decorated in soft tones that reflect 1950s Kitchen Aid appliances. They have a great selection of small gifts, paper products and greeting cards that are great if you are picking up a birthday treat or gift.

The tasting itself was phenomenal! I tried three different flavors, Red Velvet with cream cheese frosting, Chocolate Cake with vanilla butter cream frosting and Vanilla cake with vanilla butter cream frosting. All of which were so good it makes it hard to choose. If it were my cake I would go with the red velvet, its by far the best I have had, and I must admit I am kind of a bake shop snob. The other two flavors were also irresistible and when I brought the left-overs home to my fiancé; lets just say there was nothing left!

The wonderful taste of Susie Cakes and the pleasant atmosphere was accompanied by friendly smiles and a great knowledgeable staff. Lindsay (Susie's Newport Beach Manager) was as sweet as the cakes and definitely made my experience wonderful. Even if you have ordered your cake, feed your sweet tooth at this great little bakery by grabbing a cupcake or one of their amazing cookies.

A Couture Wedding Event

Here are a few shots from a Couture Wedding Show I took part in right after Valentine's Day. I was solely responsible for the color and theme development as well as all the floral work. With this table I really focused on small details to give an overall Luxurious look. From a Crystal Chandelier to a rhinestone backdrop to match the gorgeous teal/blue color scheme.

The debauchery of your Wedding "do"

Even if you do not have long hair naturally, extensions can be a great way for you to achieve the look. In my opinion, long loose curls are the best way to go. A bride should be elegant and flawless but look like it took no effort at all. Many hairstylist, especially those that you will find on a smaller budget tend to go all out, its my opinion that its WAY too far out. Remember the golden rule of planning any event, "You get what you pay for."

Wedding hair should not consist of globs of gel and three cans of aerosol. It should be light, full of life and body, not "bling'd out" or give your dress a run for it's money.

If you must have an up-do for your big day then go for something less tailored; a loose pinned look or something feathered and "wind kissed." Do without all of the product and spray or try half up, half down with a vintage inspired flower for something more romantic looking.

In conclusion, one more Wedding hair mistake I constantly come across is Tiaras (or Crowns). In my book this is a HUGE "no, no." This is the most important day of your adult life, not your Sweet 16 or Senior Prom. If you want everyone at your wedding to know your a Princess (or a Queen) then shock them with your stunning elegance, class and poise; let the dress and YOU do all the talking...

With Love,

Billy

Toasting to New Beginings

Last night I had the pleasure to meet with my wonderful clients Thuy and Michael. July 10th, 2010 is their date at the wonderful Fairmont in Newport Beach. This incredible couple just celebrated their FOURTEENTH year together, I could not be happier that I will have the chance to share in their "I Do's."

Couture Gowns, Good Prices

Pronovias (pictured above) is an innovative, stylish design house, based in Barcelona Spain. The beautiful hand made gowns are reasonably priced (usually between 1,500-2,500). The reason I take such a liking to Pronovias is due to their attention to detail, designs and vision for what an elegant bride should be. Two of the dresses pictured above are a couple of my favorites but the show stopper for me is a dress by the name of "Fanal." I was not able to find a decent picture of it, however take my word for it. Find a Bridal Boutique that carries the "Fanal" gown, and try it on. Once you have it on you won't want to take it off.

Luxe Cake

A great and inexpensive way to have an amazing cake without paying too much for the look of it is to do a traditional white cake and add some fresh flowers that match your theme. I suggest flower "clusters" as you see in the picture above, rather than the more dated flower "cascade." In this picture I arranged Burgundy Cymbidiums and Schwartz Calla Lilies on the cake with Black Magic rose petals and votives to add to the elegance of the table

Need personalized Favors?

Definitely Check out this Site for all things personalized! This is great for cocktail napkins, drink stirs, wedding/party favors and so much more.

www.foryourparty.com

Welcome!

Hello from Luxe Life Events,

Thanks for stopping by! Please check back in the next couple days for posts on my favorites of all things nuptial, from dresses to flowers and much more...

Cheers,

Billy Folchetti

Founder/ Event Strategist

Luxe Life Events