Thank You Notes

I just couldn't help but share a couple of thank you notes I received from my bride, Krysten,

and her mother, Olga, who recently hosted a beautiful wedding for her daughter at The Ritz-Carlton, in Laguna Niguel. I knew from the moment I met with Krysten and Olga, that even if they chose another wedding planner that we would be in each other's lives for a very long time. I am happy to say that they did in fact choose me, and I was so very honored to be a part of such an important celebration in their lives.

Both of them wrote such thoughtful emails to me after the wedding, and made

me realize how very much I love my job!

photography courtesy of Diana Kullman

From the gorgeous bride, Krysten:

Hello!

I hope that you and your family are well!

I just had to send you an e-mail to say thank you so incredibly much for all of the work you put into our wedding. I cannot begin to thank you enough for making sure our wedding was so beautiful and so flawless. When the day was all done, Kurt and I just sat back and could not even find the words to describe how amazing and perfect the entire day was. GOD IS SO GOOD! The entire day was filled with the joy of the Lord and we were just so humbled by the whole experience. I was so calm knowing that you were there to orchestrate every detail, and it made the day so much more enjoyable. I am so glad we were able to meet you and work with you. You have been such an amazing blessing to us and I truly pray that the Lord blesses you abundantly for what you have done for us. I couldn't imagine doing the wedding without you! Thank you again for all of your hard work and for making such an important day even more special!

All my love,

Krysten

P.S. We just got our pictures last night and would love to share them with you! We will have to figure out a time when we can all get together =)

From the also gorgeous mother of the bride, Olga:

Hi Julie,

I hope and pray all is well. As for us, we're trying to settle back to "normal" life, while Kurt & Krysten are still honeymooning in Greece. They return on Saturday, October 17th and by the sounds of it they're having the time of their lives. To quote Kurt's facebook entry, "In Santorini, Greece with my beautiful bride…life doesn't get any better!"

I wanted to take the time to thank you for all of you did to make the wedding such a joyous, wonderful occasion! I could never express to you how very grateful I am for you and your services. Your expertise and wisdom were invaluable! And your calm spirit and bright smile made for an anxiety-free day! Thank you! From the moment we met back at Starbucks I knew the day would be in good hands and it wasn't just in good hands, it was in knowlegeable, reliable and capable hands! Thank you! We were all overwhelmed by the great day and so much that happened that day is thank you to you!

I hope to hand out many wedding packets here at the Ritz-Carlton and it will be my pleasure to personally pass along your name as THE VERY BEST!!!!

Thank you, again and God bless you!

Olga Mason
Concierge
The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel
One Ritz Carlton Drive
Dana Point California 92629
Phone : (949) 240-2000

Inspired by The Kentucky Derby

It's almost May and that can only mean one thing - time again for the Kentucky Derby,

horse racing's premier event...

...but the Kentucky Derby is not just about horse racing, it's about the magic that makes

the first Saturday in May unique in sports, fashion and style. People from all over come together in Louisville, Kentucky to honor Southern traditions. Don't worry if you can't

make it all the way to Churchill Downs, you can still enjoy the high-society spirit of the

Run for the Roses right at home.

Whatever your style for celebrating, you'll find the best resource for all things Kentucky Derby party inspired for style, fashion and entertaining at Kentucky Derby Party. There you will find plenty of theme ideas to plan your party; including guest list, invitations, menu and cocktails.

So dawn your Derby hat and get inspired!

The following (3) inspiration boards were featured on Hostess with the Mostess and more

information about Kentucky Derby Party ideas and original recipes from Bobby Flay

can be found on HWTM blog.

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You can find these and other traditional Derby hats at WomenXone

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How adorable are these lucky ladies who were able to actually attend the Kentucky Derby in '09? My friend, Lindsay of Toast Signature Celebrations, was kind enough to share these fun and festive pictures from her real life experience! They are the epitome of high society style!

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The following photos and recipes courtesy of Southern Living Magazine

adapted from Basic Taste

Chocolate Burbon Pecan Pie, also known as a Derby Pie

This recipe takes a pecan pie and adds intense chocolate and burbon flavor. It's quick and fairly easy to make. Use store bought pie crust to make it even easier.

Ingredients:

1/2 (15-ounce) package refrigerated piecrusts
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate morsels
1 cup dark corn syrup
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/4 cup bourbon or water
4 large eggs
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
2 teaspoons cornmeal
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Fit pie crust into a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate according to package directions; fold edges under, and crimp. Sprinkle pecans and chocolate evenly onto bottom of pie crust; set aside.

Combine corn syrup and next 3 ingredients in a large saucepan, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Whisk together eggs and next 4 ingredients. Gradually whisk about one-fourth hot mixture into egg mixture; add to remaining hot mixture, whisking constantly. Pour filling into prepared pie crust. Bake at 325° for 55 minutes or until set, cool on wire rack.

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The Kentucky Derby Signature Drink is the Classic Mint Julep

Ingredients:

5 fresh mint leaves

1 tablespoon simple syrup or mint simple syrup

Crushed ice

1 1/2 to 2 TBS or 1 ounce of bourbon

1 (4-inch) cocktail straw

1 fresh mint sprig

Powdered sugar (optional)

Directions:

Place mint leaves and Simple Syrup in a chilled julep cup. Gently press leaves against cup with back of spoon to release flavors. Pack cup tightly with crushed ice, pour bourbon over ice. Insert straw, place mint sprig directly next to straw, and serve immediately. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.

{Hostess Spotlight} Fairy Garden Party

I was just thrilled when Kim Stoegbauer of The TomKat Studio gave me permission to post the adorable Fairy Garden Party that she planned for her daughter Kate's 3rd birthday.

You will definitely want to spend time on The TomKat Studio's blog pouring over every detail and all her DIY projects, but for now here are some inspiring images of the dessert table, birthday girl's attire, and the party decor to get your creativity flowing!

Great job Kim!!

Photography courtesy of Vicki Lynn Photography

The Fairy Garden printable collection is now available in The TomKat Studio Etsy Shop

{Venue Spotlight} The Resort at Pelican Hill, Newport Coast

If you are looking for an extraordinary destination in Southern California to host your wedding or special event, I would encourage you to consider The Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Coast. With the simple philosophy that "if it can be done it will be done" your experience at The Pelican Hill Resort will be draped in pure luxury.

I was fortunate enough to be amongst an exclusive group of event planners what were

invited to a preview event of the wedding venues at The Resort at Pelican Hill prior to it's

re-opening in 2008. From the moment the hand-delivered invitation arrived, by a

courier dressed in a tuxedo, I was treated like royalty. At the designated time, my personal driver arrived to escort me to the Resort by limousine. We were greeted with cocktails

and hors d'oeuvres on the terrace, and then dined on a lavish custom designed lunch and

wine pairing menu in the Pelican Grill.

From there, lined golf carts waited to escort us through the Resort to the Mar Vista Ballroom where we enjoyed an exquisite Champagne Reception throughout the venue showcasing tablescape designs by Fiori Fresco Special Events, Square Root Designs, and Asiel Design.

The service was truly impeccable, and here is just a peek of the magnificent

ambience we experienced.

When you host your wedding at The Resort at Pelican Hill, here are a few of the exclusive amenities you will enjoy (adapted from The Resort at Pelican Hill):

COMPLIMENTARY TWO BEDROOM VILLA

An exquisite two-bedroom, ocean-view Villa will be offered to the bridal couple for the evening of the wedding with Pelican Hill's® compliments.

BRIDAL LOUNGE

Lounges are adjacent to each event venue to create a serene place for the bridal party to gather and relax before the ceremony.

THE EXCLUSIVITY OF MAR VISTA

Pelican Hill® will celebrate only one wedding per day at Mar Vista. It is the only way to ensure the wedding couple will have the experience that Pelican Hill® intends and that they desire.

WEDDING BUTLER

A dedicated Wedding Butler will be assigned to the couple and will make sure their Villa is stocked to their preference, reservations and appointments are made and transportation is arranged. The Butler will partner with the Wedding Concierge to ensure a perfect day.

CHOICE OF MENU TABLE-SIDE

A luxury experience should entitle guests to the luxury of choice. Menu selections will be handled at each table so the presentation is a fine dining experience.

SERVICE STANDARDS

Pelican Hill offers the highest standard in staff-to-guest ratio in the ultra-luxury hospitality industry. Pelican Hill® feels that the service received will define the experience.

For more information on hosting your special event at The Resort at Pelican Hill contact George Nickels, Director of Weddings at gnickels@pelicanhill.com or 949.720.3246

Real Simple Whimsical Tableware by Rosanna, Inc.

I just love Real Simple, and am always inspired by anything contributing editor Jennifer Sbranti posts on their blog Simply Stated. I happened to run across Jennifer's post about the new collection of whimsical tableware by Rosanna, Inc. I was already a huge, huge fan of Rosanna, Inc., and her new collection did not disappoint - how adorable are these whimsical dessert plates! I'm already planning how to use them for my next party!

1. Decor Bon Bon - White {available Feburary 2010}

These stunning, all-white pedestal servers are inspired by old-fashioned Victorian designs, but still manage to have a fresh, contemporary appeal. They'd make for a fabulous (and very useful) gift idea or lovely addition to any white serveware collection!

2. Decor Bon Bon - Colors
This pretty pastel collection features a 1930's style pitcher, a graceful pink pedestal, and a spouted pink mixing bowl.

3. Ice Cream
Not that we really NEED another reason to love ice cream - but wouldn't it be fun to spoon it from one ofthese adorable bowls? They remind me of a 50's diner shop, and the retro-striped gift box way too cute too!

4. Gelato
Prefer gelato to traditional ice cream? Or maybe you like to savor your favorite frozen treat from an elegant dish? Meet the new Gelato collection – a set of old-fashioned fluted cups with a style that's just as tempting as the sweet treat that goes in them!

5. Eat Dessert First
Rosanna had me at the name with this collection... but the chic, whimsical sketch designs are the icing on the cake! The set of 4 dessert plates and matching platter are perfect for all sorts of occasions - from birthdays to dinner parties... you could even feature the plates in display stands as "party decor" for a dessert-themed bridal or baby shower.

6. Artist's Loft
Umm...yes, please! This eclectic assortment of tableware boasts 4 different design styles – Baroque, Sixties Mod, Ethnic Paisley, and Victorian – in one fresh, unique collection. Several pieces available; perfect for spring and summer entertaining!

Click here to see Jennifer's entire post on Simply Stated

Lemon-Limoncello Cupcakes

Lemon-Limoncello Cupcakes

Yield: 1 dozen

For the cupcakes: 1½ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 2 ounces (½ stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature 2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature 1 cup granulated sugar 3 large eggs 2 tablespoons limoncello ½ cup buttermilk ¼ cup lemon juice Zest of one lemon

For the lemon curd: Zest of 2 lemons ½ cup lemon juice ¼ cup granulated sugar 1 egg + 1 egg yolk

For the cream cheese limoncello frosting: 2 ounces (½ stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature 1 tablespoon limoncello 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

1. Prepare the cupcakes. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and position a rack in the center. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt; set aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter, cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until light and creamy, 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the limoncello and beat an additional minute. On low speed, add flour mixture and buttermilk alternatively, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Add the lemon juice and zest and mix on low speed just until incorporated. Divide the batter between 12 muffin tins. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the middle comes out clean. Let cool completely.

2. Prepare the lemon curd. In a heavy medium saucepan, stir together the lemon zest, juice and sugar and bring to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and egg yolk. Whisk the lemon mixture into the eggs to temper them. Scrape the mixture back into the saucepan and place over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat, and let cool completely.

3. Prepare the cream cheese limoncello frosting. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and cream cheese on medium speed until light and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the limoncello and beat for an additional minute. Reduce the speed to low and gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and beat until fully incorporated and smooth.

4. Assemble the cupcakes. Cut a hole into each cupcake with the large end of a melon baller or the back end of a large pastry tip. Fill each cavity with the lemon curd. Fill a pastry bag with a star tip (I used Wilton 1M) with the cream cheese limoncello frosting and pipe onto each cupcake. Decorate with lemon and berries, if desired.

(Adapted from Tartelette via Brown Eyed Baker)

{Real Parties}: English Garden Theme Baby Shower

One of the things I love most about my "job" is that so many of my clients become lifetime friends, and I am honored to celebrate in so many important milestones in their lives. Sarah and I originally met when she hired me to plan her wedding to Brian at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Their wedding was beautiful and I stayed in touch with Sarah and her family. I was thrilled when I got the call to plan Sarah's first baby shower for her sweet little boy.

Not surprisingly, Sarah wanted to host her shower at the same place where she had married the love of her life, at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. So with the help of the talented floral designers at Square Root Designs, we put together a magical English Garden theme party for Sarah's shower. We brought statues, fountains, park benches and lots and lots of green hedges, grass and trees to emulate a tranquil garden setting for her guests. We took advantage of The Ritz-Carlton traditional cobalt blue to tie in the blue accent color for her baby boy.

Photography by Alison Cotton of Bleu Cotton Photography

Congratulations Sarah!