Simply Classic Events

This one is a little late, but I figured “better late than never” for a chance to discuss my guilty pleasure: Red Carpet Fashion! I just love it, from the best dressed to the most outrageous. I never have time to actually sit down and watch award shows, (Aren’t they like 4 hours long? Yeah right, I have babies.), but I definitely make time to check out the night’s red carpet hits later. I’m not much of a trendsetter myself, but, I believe I have an eye for what LOOKS good. I loved a lot of the looks at the Grammys this year, but as I was drooling over the dresses I noticed that a lot of them, with a quick change of color, could be wedding aisle worthy. Here are a few of my fave looks:

It’s inevitable so I’ll start with Lady Gaga, while her fashion choices are always completely and totally outrageous sometimes she picks a winner. Better suited for a sci-fi, Star Trek inspired wedding, Gaga’s Armani creation is definitely out of this world. The swarovski covered tights even glam it up. I definitely think a Sci-Fi goddess could pull this off, however, I definitely forsee a dress change for the reception.

This little Romona Keveza dress filled me with “Glee”. Lea Michele looks great in the mini version of this LBD, but, can’t you just picture it in white, or even ivory, with a train that never quits as a beautiful bride floats down to her husband to be?

Rihanna’s Elie Saab dress is for the haute (as in couture) bride. Already in white, this dress is ready for that signature walk by the bride down the wedding runway…I mean aisle. The dress says it all and requires little to no jewelry, I love it. All that’s needed is a rockin’ updo and makeup he’d fall for.

Keri Hilson kept it nice and sweet in a mermaid gown which was belted, adding lots of bling. This dress would definitely rock for a bride who’s been working on those arms in anticipation for her big day.

While the color would definitely have to be tweaked (I don’t know, maybe a light gray being the darkest), I love Pink’s ombre dress. The Tony Ward Haute Couture design is different in its layered design but definitely screams wedding with its bedazzled sweetheart neckline and belted midsection. Pink rocks!

I had a hard time deciding between Taylor Swift’s sparkly sensation and Carrie Underwood’s heavenly dream for my fave, (I think it was the sparkle that beat out design). The George Chakras design is simple overall, yet the asymmetrical, one shouldered, geometric neckline makes a bold statement and the flowing hemline brings it back to just plain pretty. This dress would make any bride look angelic.

My fave dress of the night would have to be Taylor Swift’s sparkling stunner. Makes me wish I could call up Kaufman Franco and ask for this one in the whitest white. The dress literally shined, and gave off a very old Hollywood glamorous vibe. I’d love to see it paired with simple bridal jewelry (ie: studs, bangles, etc.) and bright red, bold lips.

Last but not least, I am loving Beyonce’s more matronly dress, designed by Stephane Rolland, which I could see on a mother of the bride who is proud of her figure and doesn’t mind showing her natural curves. In this form fitting frock, she just might steal the show. If it were sleeveless, I’d have to pass it back to a modern bride.

Well this concludes my take on red carpet fashion, and how it could be incorporated into the wedding fashion world. If only I could just call up these designers and get them out there. Hmmm…note to self: Call up Jason Wu (Michelle Obama’s inaugural ball gown designer) about creating a bridal collection!

-Maraya Q.

Tags: Grammys

Well, it was fun dreaming of these tasty, childhood treats in such exotic flavors so I searched for a recipe possible to achieve at home (no culinary degree required). Enjoy! (courtesy of The Hostess with the Mostess)

INGREDIENTS

Cupcakes:

1 box white cake mix
8 oz margarita mix (liquid)
2 oz tequila
1 oz Grand Marnier
3 egg whites
2 Tbsp vegetable oil
1 Tbsp grated lime zest

Lime Buttercream Icing:

8 Tbsp butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 Tbsp lime juice (approx 2 fresh limes)
1 Tbsp margarita mix
1 tsp lime zest
5 cups powdered (confectioners’) sugar
cane sugar & fresh limes (for garnish)
*****

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350º and prepare muffin pans.

2. Combine margarita mix, tequila, and Grand Marnier in a large glass and stir well.

3. In large bowl, combine cake mix, egg whites, lime zest, vegetable oil, and margarita mixture from step one. Stir ingredients together, then beat with an electric mixer on low to medium speed for approximately 2-3 minutes.

4. Spoon the batter into prepared muffin pans. Fill each cup/liner about 2/3 full.

5. Bake at recommended temperature on cake mix box (usually 325º – 350º) for 20 – 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

Icing:

6. In a large bowl, combine butter, cream cheese, lime juice, margarita mix, and lime zest. Beat with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

7. Add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue beating until smooth. If icing is too thin, add more powdered sugar, a couple tablespoons at a time.

8. Spread icing generously on each cooled cupcake* or use a pastry bag to frost. Sprinkle cane sugar around the edges of the cupcake for a “salt rimmed” look and garnish with lime wheels & wedges.

*Make sure to remove cupcakes from pan and cool completely before frosting.

Tip: *Leftover frosting makes a great dip for fruit! *Adding tequila to the frosting adds even more kick!

-Maraya Q.

*** Funny story about my article name! So I have been thinking of doing a blog for this all day, however, I’ve been waiting for a magazine from a friend and I planned to call it Cupcake Couture. To my surprise, the article for my inspiration was already appropriately named Cupcake Couture so my hubby came up with Cupcake Cup-ture. I love it, he’s so great. =)

I came across an article in Modern Bride magazine for cupcakes unlike any you’ve ever had. There are many ways to add detail and uniqueness to your wedding through the use of cupcakes. Presentation is key, even the stand on which they are displayed can be utterly ornate.

But one way to make your cupcakes absolutely memorable? Just add a little flavor. Have you ever tasted a BLT cupcake? What about smores? Or even pomegranate martini?

Bakeries are taking it to the next level with savory, lush-cious, and even sweeter cupcake confections. Who says you can’t toast with this yummy treat? (they can even come with tiny straws)

While perusing the site I can’t help but to imagine the taste of other flavors such as Habanero Hottie (which is under the category Chocolate? Hmmm…), Scout Samoa (my utterly fave Girl Scout cookies), John’s Cheese Popper (you know everything’s always better with cheese), and even the sugar-free Hummingbird (???). They would definitely catch you by surprise.

Another bakery which took the alternative to regular old cupcakes is The Good Life Gourmet where you can find the Japanese Cupcake, a “chocolate cupcake flavored with sesame, ginger and a hit of wasabi spice topped with a chocolate ginger frosting”.

Envision such flavors as Peanut Butter and Jelly or Mexican Chocolate for your cocktail hour. And what could make these cupcakes even better you ask? The price!!! At The Good Life Gourmet, signature cupcakes are $3.00 each, far less than what I’ve seen spent on some cakes. Unfortunately, I spoke with Meredith of The Good Life Gourmet and found out that they do NOT deliver to California as I’d hoped, but rest assured that Simply Classic Events is on the hunt for a local cupcake extraordinaire!

Tags: cooking, Cupcakes, food, recipes

Choosing colors for your wedding can be overwhelming since there are so many to choose from, so here are some ways to help you get started.

1.What better way is there to start than with your fave color?

But don’t stop there, if your fave color is blue start to think of different shades such as marine blue or electric. If green makes your day, try jade or kiwi.

2. Let nature inspire you.

If you are planning your day for summer time, let bright reds, oranges, and yellows light the way, while spring nuptials call for more demure, pastel colors. For a fall wedding shades of gold and burgundy evoke comfort and warmth. In winter, ice blue and silver can mimic the look of rain or snow falling outside.

3.Coordinate the look of your space.

Remember to take into consideration that your lavender and grape palette might not look so great with the red and gold decor of the ballroom. Consider using the dominant color of the room to inspire your hue choices.

4.Do you have a favorite bloom?

Some only occur in certain colors in nature, such as hydrangeas which can be various shades of pink and blue, and white with a hint of green. Maybe sunflowers brighten your day, go for the reds and yellows found naturally.

5. If you are more adventurous, check out Pantone’s color trend of the year…

So I’m pretty excited about Pantone’s, “the world’s color authority for 45 years”, choice for the 2010 color of the year…Turquoise! It works wonders as a main color and can be easily matched to become an accent.

Pair it with black for an ultramodern look of sophistication and elegance.

Add it to other jewel toned colors to create a palette the deep blue ocean would be envious of.

Turquoise can be added to darker blues, purple, and green for a peacock inspired palette.

For a tropical scheme, match turquoise with a mango orange.

No matter the colors you choose make sure they inspire and evoke the mood you desire for your special day.

-Maraya Q.

Tags: blooms, color, flowers, jewel, nature

Who Hosts A Bridal Shower?

Pretty much anyone can host a bridal shower except the bride and the mother of the bride. The usual suspects, if you will, range from members of the bridal party to members of the bride and groom’s immediate family.

Who Is Invited To A Bridal Shower?

A shower is generally an intimate gathering of female wedding guests. Generally it is not proper etiquette to invite someone to a shower that is not invited to the wedding so chances are if you have been invited to a bridal shower you are on the couple’s wedding guest list. Also, in terms of etiquette, as a shower guest you should not bring your own guest to someone else’s shower. The invite is for you, and you alone.

Where Do You Host A Bridal Shower?

Usually bridal showers are hosted in someone’s home. Now and then, depending on the bride, the number of guests and the size of the host’s living space, bridal shower guests will be invited to a restaurant, club or community center.

What Do You Wear To A Bridal Shower?

Unless the invitation specifically states what to wear, it is safe to go with a dress or skirt and top. Consider a bridal shower a dress-up affair and give your jeans a break.

Are There Bridal Shower Themes?

Sometimes. If there is a theme, the host should clearly print the theme on the invitation or inform guests by phone or email when they RSVP.

Some common themes are lingerie showers. Girl’s Night Out which would mean bringing drink recipes and cocktail shakers, honeymoon theme would include travel-related accessories, spa themed showers would include face masks, spa treatments, etc.

If you do not see any sort of theme listed on your invitation you can always double-check when you RSVP to the host and whatever you do, DON’T FORGET TO RSVP!

What Should You Bring To A Bridal Shower?

A bride-specific gift. But,I advise you, know your audience.

If the mother of the bride’s conservative best friend is hosting the shower maybe you should not go with the naughty lingerie and instead stick with something more family-friendly like a set of towels. If you really want to go with the naughty lingerie, perhaps either wait until the bachelorette party. Think about what the bride would like: a spa treatment, a cookbook? You can buy a bridal shower gift from the registry.

What Do You Do At A Bridal Shower?

That is completely up to the host. Undoubtedly, you will have food and drinks but whether the fare includes snacks, appetizers or a full sit-down meal is to be determined. And, generally there will be some sort of bridal shower party game - be it a word search, sudoku or Bridal pictionary!

The bride will also unwrap and present her presents during the party - yet another reason to really know your audience as everyone is going to see every gift.

Can A Bride Have More Than One Bridal Shower?

Absolutely! Oftentimes, several people will want to host a bridal shower so you may be invited to more than one celebratory affair.

Tags: bridal shower, customs, Inspiration

One would think that something so yummy should be easy to pick. But most Brides say choosing a wedding cake can be stressful. Surprise! This is probably because next to your wedding dress, the wedding cake is one of the most important aspects of your wedding.

Why?

The cutting and feeding of the cake by the bride and groom signifies their first meal together as a married couple.
The cake is at most times the focal point of the reception room, so what is NOT surprising is that many couples want their cake to be just perfect.

Here are some wedding trends for 2010 to make your mark on the wedding scene:

Dessert Buffets!

These can be super unique and a way to squeeze in more than one favorite of yours and your groom. You can incorporate traditional desserts from your different cultural backgrounds or have it potluck style to save money.

Candy Bars!

Who says you have to have cake as a cake? Some couples that may not be fans of the cakes, pies and cookies might like peppermints, sour balls and taffy. Why not shake things up with a scoopable and chewable spread.

Mini Wedding Cakes

Sometimes SIZE DOES MATTER and with these mini morsels of yummyness each guest will feel like they are getting hitched. This is not the most cost effective choice for at times this option can be a bit pricey but it is a great personal touch.

Ice Cream Parlor:

Imagine a buffet full of your favorite flavors of ice cream with all the toppings to boot, and even soda pop for floats! This is a great idea for anytime and ESPECIALLY for a wedding! LOL It would work best for you summer guys and dolls and definitely indoor affairs unless you are tented.

Hope these ideas appeal to your sweet tooth!

~Jaz’min Q.

Tags: cake, Candy Bar, Cupcakes, Ice Cream, Trends, wedding cake, Wedding Tips

…For the Tree Hugger In You!

Having an eco-friendly wedding? Don’t fret too much on incorporating the theme in your nuptials. Here are some neat ideas that you can incorporate in your eco-wedding day…

Potted Plant Favors:

When selecting favors look no further than your local greenhouse or nursery.

Mini Lanterns

Recycle Reduce Reuse! Simply save all your aluminum cans and take the label off with soapy water. String ribbon through punched holes and make your own design for the light to stream through.

Have Tree Free Invites.

There are two great online invite companies we found to meet your Tree-Loving Needs. These companies offer chic, clean, modern invitations in BETA for the environmentaly friendly Bride. Paperless Post and Cocodot

Tags: brides, Eco-Wedding, Inspiration, wedding, Wedding Planning

I took some time out to interview a vendor that may be of interest to brides and their future events. I wanted to spotlight Speedpro Imaging because they are excellent to work with and they offer an incredible product for events. They specialize in larger than life expressions and can add to the personalization of any event you may have.

Interview of Caroline Pinal of Speedpro Imaging by Jaz’min Quary of Simply Classic Events:

Jaz’min: How long have you been in business?
Caroline: Speedpro Imaging has been in business for over a decade, our L.A studio has been open for almost a year now.

Jaz’min: What can you provide for events that will make it special and unique?
Caroline: Walking down the aisle is one of the most important steps in your life; shouldn’t it be a walk down the aisle runner that suits your momentous occasion? Your unique style will impress your family and friends. Our aisle runners are made from cloth fabric and can be customized with a monogram, a family crest, a favorite quote, anything you like.

Transform the dance floor into a perfect photo op. Make your first dance memorable with a monogram, a favorite quote, or special graphic the dance floor. Acting as a large sticker, our special removable vinyl is easy to install and won’t leave residue behind.

Looking for a unique way to celebrate a Wedding? Our reception banners are the perfect answer. Each banner is customized for your event. Reception banners are a great decoration at wedding showers, the rehearsal dinner, or next to the gift table. They are customized with up to 10 photos that you select. Each banner is customized to match your wedding theme with colors, flowers, and photos. All banners have grommets in each corner that makes it easy to hang and display at the event. Once the reception is over the banner is theirs to keep forever as a memory of this great event.

A seating chart placed at the entrance to the reception is a wonderful way for your guests to view easily their table number. The example shown is alphabetized by last name. Like all products, the Seating Chart can be personalized to match the theme of your wedding with color and theme choices. Each sign is mounted onto foam core. You supply the list and we’ll supply the sign.

Our Just Married Magnets are perfect way to announce your most exciting day with Just Married signs. These magnets are personalized with your names and the date of your wedding, your theme colors, and photos. Display them on the sides of your limousine or other vehicle. Save your Just Married Magnet to use as a decoration on your anniversary and a beautiful reminder of your special day. Just Married Magnets also make a great personalized gift at a wedding shower.

These magnets will spread the excitement of your special day to your entire guest list. The magnets are a great wedding keepsake that allows advance planning for your guests with a unique design. Choose from one of the templates and personalize with photo(s), colors, and text.

Jaz’min: That sounds great. I would never imagine a printing company providing so many useful products for a wedding. So, What is the most important aspect of a wedding?

Caroline: The most important aspect of a wedding is the personality of it. Weddings can be so traditional in a sense that everyone knows exactly what’s going to happen next. So, the most important aspect of a wedding is finding the personality of the couple and really making that come out by either personalizing traditions, or finding unique ways to incorporate your personality through the traditions or decorations. Just make it yours!

Jaz’min: That’s true, personalization is key. So, What is your company philosophy? Business motto? What makes you tick?

Caroline: Speedpro really prides itself on honesty, professionalism and most importantly the quality of our product. If something comes out, and it’s even the slightest bit off, we will re-print it until it lives up to our standards. We strive for perfection, no matter how many times it takes, or regardless if the customer notices or not.

Jaz’min: What do your clients tell you that they love most about your service?

Caroline: So far, we’ve gotten a lot of compliments on our quick turnaround, the consultation that we can provide for either materials to use or even for graphic design. Our in-house graphic designer will sit with you until you are satisfied with a design. But mostly, the quality of our final product has been what most customers love about our service.

-Speedpro Imaging is located in Los Angeles, Ca

So, what do you think about that? Useful and beautiful. Make your event personal and call Speedpro Imaging for your next event.

Tags: aisle runners, brides, grooms, personalization, seating charts, wedding

I have recently been reading, “Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert. In it she travels to the derilect city of Sicily that is described in the book as “the most third world section of Italy”. She describes the horrible state of this place but finds herself emersed in the beauty of the people, food and music.

She makes reference to another book (I know a book within a book get to the point here) called, “The Italians” by Luigi Barzini where he explains the state of Italy from an Italian perspective. He says the Italy looks the way it does from years of War, Corruption and foriegn domination. He says that because of all this corruption and unstability that the only thing one can trust is one’s own senses. This is what makes Italian senses stronger than anyone elses in Western Europe. They have an uncompromising attention to the caliber of dancers, chefs and artists and yet none for their political leaders. “Only artistic excellence is uncorruptable. Pleasure cannot be bargained down.”

I plead to all those seeking to create an event, please do not compromise the beauty of your memories because of a recession. There are plenty of ways to save and cut back without giving up. Have uncorrupted beauty like the Italians and take back what you deserve.

Tags: beauty, ceremony, event, italian ceremonies, save tips, wedding

Today, September 18th 2009, is my wedding anniversary. Four years ago today @ the Los Angeles River Center & Gardens, I walked down the aisle to be with the man I love for the rest of my life. Much like many of you planning your wedding now, I wanted this day to be perfect. It was.
I chose a Jazz Theme in honor of our Creole New Orleans culture. The colors were brown, gold and deep red. My flower of choice was the Sunflower. Did you know that a good i.e. cheaper substitution for the Sunflower is the Gerber Daisy?

All the tables were named after Jazz musicians. I have to admit that it was cool having Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie and Duke Ellington at my wedding. I created picture frames with black and white photographs in gold frames. Besides the frames we had a three candle centerpiece with green moss base and roses and sunflowers tucked in between. Candles adorned the tables as well. The trees had chandeliers swinging gracefully overhead while guests dined.

We both vowed to choose friends to be in the wedding that took part in our relationship. (5 bridesmaids and 5 groomsmen, professional opinion: this is more than enough). We kept the food simple chic. With Gumbo, Jambalaya, Veggies and Macaroni and Cheese! We opted for a signature drink, the New Orleans Hurricane.

We danced the night away. I remember dancing so long that I didn’t even notice that half the guests had left by the time it was our last dance. I was smitten and swept away and I still am. I wish all of you the happiness that my husband and I share.

Cheers!

Jaz’min Q.

Tags: anniversary, catering, cocktails, florals, flowers, food, Weddings