Bright Idea: A Wedding on Stand Up Paddleboards

By NB Indy Staff on January 10, 2011 10:45 AM

A beautiful union takes place in a calm sea. This bodes well ... | Photos by Billy Fried

It was a glorious afternoon in November, 2010, when Jonathan Mammele and Marley Marchaelties, both of Laguna Beach, tied the knot on stand-up paddleboards. Charnae Wright presided over the ceremony, and La Vida Laguna coordinated the gear, logistics, and champagne toast.

A Marriage Made

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Orange County is always on the cusp of fashion and creativity, and weddings in Laguna Beach are no exception. Three local wedding specialists share the top trends they’ve spotted in coastal OC weddings this year.

Many couples are ditching formulaic events for a wedding as unique as they are.

“Couples are creating more of an ‘environment’ rather than a traditional set-up,” says Jamie Puffer, a wedding specialist at Montage Resort.

Instead of a formal reception, couples are opting for a lounge feel and late night snacks for the guests. Ice lounges are also popular as furniture, sculptures, chandeliers and bar-ware made of ice make “striking statement pieces,” says Adina Verdult, event designer and owner of Fleur de Lis Events and the Event Loft.
Couples are also choosing a more intimate wedding, narrowing the guest list and refining the décor and design of the event instead, Adina says.

Hors’doeuvres served on edible spoons and in small plates displayed in tiers are very popular. Many couples are also opting for family-style or tapas-style meals, with ice cream bars and dessert tables displaying pies and tarts with “more of a homemade feel so people don’t feel a stuffy event is taking place,” Adina says.
Vintage looks from the 1930s and 40s are hot, with brides incorporating lace, headpieces and birdcage veils to their look. Many brides are also embracing full-skirted dresses reminiscent of the 1950s.

Elegant simplicity is also a top trend.

“Brides are wanting less-is-more,” says wedding planner Maria Lindsay.

Submersed flowers and numerous candles make elegant and cost-effective centerpieces, and many brides are choosing to upgrade the table linens.

“It’s almost like having the icing on the cake,” says Shani Mosley, an event specialist for CS Events, who adds that beaded linens are very popular this year.

Many brides are returning to roses displayed in a simplistic style, Maria says.

“Brides are also big on petals everywhere, either drenched or in a pattern down the aisle,” she says.
However, not much needs to be added to Laguna Beach’s unbelievable ocean views.

“We have to work with Mother Nature, who gives us a beautiful backdrop,” Adina says. “What we do is just the icing on the cake.”

Three for the Show
Here are three of Laguna Beach’s fabulous wedding venues that will help create a singular, unforgettable wedding experience.

Montage, Photo by Joe Photo

Montage Resort
30801 S. Coast Hwy.
(949)715-6000
montage@lagunabeach.com

From spectacular ocean views to personalized wedding details, Montage Resort specializes in pampering its brides and grooms. 

“We’ll only ever do one wedding a day,” says Jamie Puffer, the resort’s director of catering. “Your wedding is all we’re doing for the entire day.”

Situated on a coastal bluff, Montage displays unobstructed views of waves, rocks and horizon. Weddings are held on lush green grass that has been treated so that brides can confidentially walk down the aisle in heels. After a sunset ceremony, guests are escorted into the resort’s ballrooms, which can seat up to 375 people. Couples can also book a wedding weekend, renting out the hotel for an extended celebration.

As soon as couples book their event, they are invited to enjoy a Wedding Surrender Package—a customized spa program complete with a personal therapist who works with them throughout their engagement. Celebrity hair stylist Kim Vó also lends his expertise to brides on their wedding days.

“Brides can be celebrities themselves,” Jamie says.

Tivoli Terrace, Photo courtesy Happy Photos

Tivoli Terrace / Tivoli Too!
31106 S. Coast Hwy.
(949) 499-2271
alisocreekinn.com

Nestled in Laguna Canyon, Tivoli Terrance and Tivoli Too! are the perfect venues for the eclectic, romantic bride. Surrounded by blooming flowers and greenery year-round, these venues add a little bit of southern Europe to Southern California.

“You feel like you’re in a whole different world at our locations,” says Bobby Fader, general manager of Tivoli Terrace.

Designed and hand-planted by owner Jane Neptune in the 1970s, these outdoor garden settings appear magical when lit by hanging candles and twinkling lights.

Tivoli Terrace is a French country garden that showcases a giant California sycamore tree, while Tivoli Too! is a European courtyard with a cascading waterfall. Weddings are the main focus of both venues, which have the capacity for more than 200 guests.

“A romantic European setting is what we do,” Bobby says. “If you like twinkle lights, candles and romance, we’re the place for you. If you like hotels, four walls, and fake chandeliers, we’re not that place.”

Surf & Sand Resort, Photo by Jim Kennedy

Surf & Sand Resort
1555 S. Coast Hwy.
(949) 497-4477
surfandsandresort.com

With the Pacific Ocean as backdrop, a ceremony at the Surf and Sand resort feels like a romantic destination wedding, even to OC natives.

“You feel like you’re on vacation, even if you’re a local resident,” says Lora Wesolowski, associate director of catering.

While couples can exchange vows in the sand, the resort also provides the feel of a beach wedding without the sand between your toes.

“On the terrace, you feel like you’re actually on the sand without being on the beach,” Lora says. “We provide comfortable elegance.”

The location is perfect for capturing stunning wedding portraits, both on the beach and by the gardens, water features and architecture scattered throughout the property. After pictures, the bride and groom join up to 180 guests in the ballroom, which features a wrap around patio with an ocean view on the south side.

On Location with True Love

By OCinSite At-Large on

On location with true love. | Photo courtesy The Resort at Pelican Hill

By Michelle Garrido | Newport Beach Magazine, March 2010

“The two most intense aspects of wedding planning are selecting the bridal gown and selecting the venue,” says Gail Garceau of GG Weddings (ggweddings.com). “The venue tells everything about the couple; it is a reflection of personality and style. Couples know when they’ve found the right place. It’s a strong feeling they get, and a place will either resonate with them or it will not.”

For the ultimate in wedding pampering, many couples choose The Resort at Pelican Hill to begin their fairytale life together. “Pelican Hill in unsurpassed,” says Gail, who has 20 years of wedding planning experience. “They honor one wedding a day, which is very important to some, and their attention to every detail makes it the ideal venue for couples who want impeccable service.”

The space reserved for weddings, Mar Vista, sits apart from the main resort, offering guests complete privacy. “You feel as if you’re in your own luxurious home, with no one around you but your loved ones and guests,” Gail says. Each wedding is assigned a wedding butler and concierge to make sure things run smoothly. And just for the bride: a sumptuous bridal lounge for your big day, where she can rest, relax and get gorgeous for that walk down the aisle.

Pelican Hill, Mar Vista. | Photo courtesy Pelican Hill

During these leaner economic times, many couples are paying closer attention to their guests’ expenses. If your RSVPs include a number of out-of-towners, consider the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach, an affordable resort close to the bay and Balboa Island.

“This is a wonderful destination resort with an excellent price point and lots of things for guests to do,” Gail says. “The grounds are very pretty. There’s a charming brick patio with a lovely tropical garden. It’s perfect for smaller weddings and receptions, and there’s an expansive grass amphitheatre for larger groups.”

The Hyatt Regency Newport Beach has a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings of all sizes, and according to Gail, the staff’s attention to detail belies the venue’s competitive pricing.

“The catering services here are excellent,” Gail says. “It’s a great option for someone looking for an all-inclusive experience with an affordable price.”

Celebrate amidst a dreamy garden. | Photo courtesy Hyatt

Enjoy a charming, intimate ceremony at one of many Newport restaurants that cater to couples’ big days, including Five Crowns Restaurant, a recent recipient of WeddingWire’s Bride’s Choice 2010 award. Five Crowns is a popular spot for those with a more modest budget, or those looking to simplify their wedding plans.
“Fresh flowers are standard in the Crown Room and restaurant entry, making this a reception location where minimal additional flowers are needed,” says Susan Ballou, spokesperson for Five Crowns. “Candles for tables are also part of a typical setting.”

Exchange vows beneath a lovely arbor within the restaurant’s sweet English garden, then enjoy a beautifully relaxed reception in the restaurant.

Petals are strewn about in the Five Crowns’ English garden. | Photo courtesy Five Crowns/Grant Younglove

“The events manager works with couples from start to finish,” Susan explains. “She dedicates her efforts to the event on the wedding day to make sure it comes together smoothly—a task typically handled by a wedding coordinator.”

For a truly retro beachside affair, kick off your shoes and hit the sand at Crystal Cove Cottages. This historic strip of coastal Newport Beach is treasured by locals for its 46 seaside cottages and dreamy sunsets. The vibe here is very low key, down to earth and unapologetically So Cal circa 1950.

“It’s right there on the beach,” Gail says, “and it’s really rustic and charming. This would be a good location for a more relaxed couple who wants a simple, smaller ceremony right there on the sand.”

Several areas are available for weddings—the Cultural Center Cottage offers a large redwood deck, for example, or you can become the new Mr. and Mrs. right on the shore. Couples and their guests can stay the night in one of the classic beach cottages and wake to the sound of crashing waves and ocean breezes.

Sherman Library & Gardens, Corona del Mar’s lovely garden oasis, is a peaceful, verdant venue with year-round blooms to accent a perfect indoor or outdoor wedding, along with stunning photographs and an elegant reception. The Tea Garden, the Pepper Tree Patio and the Central Patio Room, with its cathedral ceiling, skylights and large, white-brick fireplace, and catering by Pascal Prestige Catering, all offer upscale, unforgettable garden charm.

A view of the Balboa Bay Club & Resort from the water. | Photo courtesy Balboa Bay Club & Resort

At Balboa Bay Club, couples can exchange vows with the sun, sailboats and the harbor all as witnesses to the happy event. From the rehearsal dinner to the ceremony and from the reception to the honeymoon, Balboa Bay Club deftly weaves it all together, creating a wedding that is definitely an event to remember.

“The two most intense aspects of wedding planning are selecting the bridal gown and selecting the venue,” says Gail Garceau of GG Weddings (ggweddings.com). “The venue tells everything about the couple; it is a reflection of personality and style. Couples know when they’ve found the right place. It’s a strong feeling they get, and a place will either resonate with them or it will not.”

For the ultimate in wedding pampering, many couples choose The Resort at Pelican Hill to begin their fairytale life together. “Pelican Hill in unsurpassed,” says Gail, who has 20 years of wedding planning experience. “They honor one wedding a day, which is very important to some, and their attention to every detail makes it the ideal venue for couples who want impeccable service.”

The space reserved for weddings, Mar Vista, sits apart from the main resort, offering guests complete privacy. “You feel as if you’re in your own luxurious home, with no one around you but your loved ones and guests,” Gail says. Each wedding is assigned a wedding butler and concierge to make sure things run smoothly. And just for the bride: a sumptuous bridal lounge for your big day, where she can rest, relax and get gorgeous for that walk down the aisle.

During these leaner economic times, many couples are paying closer attention to their guests’ expenses. If your RSVPs include a number of out-of-towners, consider the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach, an affordable resort close to the bay and Balboa Island.
“This is a wonderful destination resort with an excellent price point and lots of things for guests to do,” Gail says. “The grounds are very pretty. There’s a charming brick patio with a lovely tropical garden. It’s perfect for smaller weddings and receptions, and there’s an expansive grass amphitheatre for larger groups.”

The Hyatt Regency Newport Beach has a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings of all sizes, and according to Gail, the staff’s attention to detail belies the venue’s competitive pricing.

“The catering services here are excellent,” Gail says. “It’s a great option for someone looking for an all-inclusive experience with an affordable price.”

Enjoy a charming, intimate ceremony at one of many Newport restaurants that cater to couples’ big days, including Five Crowns Restaurant, a recent recipient of WeddingWire’s Bride’s Choice 2010 award. Five Crowns is a popular spot for those with a more modest budget, or those looking to simplify their wedding plans.
“Fresh flowers are standard in the Crown Room and restaurant entry, making this a reception location where minimal additional flowers are needed,” says Susan Ballou, spokesperson for Five Crowns. “Candles for tables are also part of a typical setting.”
Exchange vows beneath a lovely arbor within the restaurant’s sweet English garden, then enjoy a beautifully relaxed reception in the restaurant.

“The events manager works with couples from start to finish,” Susan explains. “She dedicates her efforts to the event on the wedding day to make sure it comes together smoothly—a task typically handled by a wedding coordinator.”

For a truly retro beachside affair, kick off your shoes and hit the sand at Crystal Cove Cottages. This historic strip of coastal Newport Beach is treasured by locals for its 46 seaside cottages and dreamy sunsets. The vibe here is very low key, down to earth and unapologetically So Cal circa 1950.

“It’s right there on the beach,” Gail says, “and it’s really rustic and charming. This would be a good location for a more relaxed couple who wants a simple, smaller ceremony right there on the sand.”

Several areas are available for weddings—the Cultural Center Cottage offers a large redwood deck, for example, or you can become the new Mr. and Mrs. right on the shore. Couples and their guests can stay the night in one of the classic beach cottages and wake to the sound of crashing waves and ocean breezes.

Sherman Library & Gardens, Corona del Mar’s lovely garden oasis, is a peaceful, verdant venue with year-round blooms to accent a perfect indoor or outdoor wedding, along with stunning photographs and an elegant reception. The Tea Garden, the Pepper Tree Patio and the Central Patio Room, with its cathedral ceiling, skylights and large, white-brick fireplace, and catering by Pascal Prestige Catering, all offer upscale, unforgettable garden charm.

At Balboa Bay Club, couples can exchange vows with the sun, sailboats and the harbor all as witnesses to the happy event. From the rehearsal dinner to the ceremony and from the reception to the honeymoon, Balboa Bay Club deftly weaves it all together, creating a wedding that is definitely an event to remember.
“The two most intense aspects of wedding planning are selecting the bridal gown and selecting the venue,” says Gail Garceau of GG Weddings (ggweddings.com). “The venue tells everything about the couple; it is a reflection of personality and style. Couples know when they’ve found the right place. It’s a strong feeling they get, and a place will either resonate with them or it will not.”

For the ultimate in wedding pampering, many couples choose The Resort at Pelican Hill to begin their fairytale life together. “Pelican Hill in unsurpassed,” says Gail, who has 20 years of wedding planning experience. “They honor one wedding a day, which is very important to some, and their attention to every detail makes it the ideal venue for couples who want impeccable service.”

The space reserved for weddings, Mar Vista, sits apart from the main resort, offering guests complete privacy. “You feel as if you’re in your own luxurious home, with no one around you but your loved ones and guests,” Gail says. Each wedding is assigned a wedding butler and concierge to make sure things run smoothly. And just for the bride: a sumptuous bridal lounge for your big day, where she can rest, relax and get gorgeous for that walk down the aisle.

During these leaner economic times, many couples are paying closer attention to their guests’ expenses. If your RSVPs include a number of out-of-towners, consider the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach, an affordable resort close to the bay and Balboa Island.
“This is a wonderful destination resort with an excellent price point and lots of things for guests to do,” Gail says. “The grounds are very pretty. There’s a charming brick patio with a lovely tropical garden. It’s perfect for smaller weddings and receptions, and there’s an expansive grass amphitheatre for larger groups.”

The Hyatt Regency Newport Beach has a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings of all sizes, and according to Gail, the staff’s attention to detail belies the venue’s competitive pricing.

“The catering services here are excellent,” Gail says. “It’s a great option for someone looking for an all-inclusive experience with an affordable price.”

Enjoy a charming, intimate ceremony at one of many Newport restaurants that cater to couples’ big days, including Five Crowns Restaurant, a recent recipient of WeddingWire’s Bride’s Choice 2010 award. Five Crowns is a popular spot for those with a more modest budget, or those looking to simplify their wedding plans.
“Fresh flowers are standard in the Crown Room and restaurant entry, making this a reception location where minimal additional flowers are needed,” says Susan Ballou, spokesperson for Five Crowns. “Candles for tables are also part of a typical setting.”
Exchange vows beneath a lovely arbor within the restaurant’s sweet English garden, then enjoy a beautifully relaxed reception in the restaurant.

“The events manager works with couples from start to finish,” Susan explains. “She dedicates her efforts to the event on the wedding day to make sure it comes together smoothly—a task typically handled by a wedding coordinator.”

For a truly retro beachside affair, kick off your shoes and hit the sand at Crystal Cove Cottages. This historic strip of coastal Newport Beach is treasured by locals for its 46 seaside cottages and dreamy sunsets. The vibe here is very low key, down to earth and unapologetically So Cal circa 1950.

“It’s right there on the beach,” Gail says, “and it’s really rustic and charming. This would be a good location for a more relaxed couple who wants a simple, smaller ceremony right there on the sand.”

Several areas are available for weddings—the Cultural Center Cottage offers a large redwood deck, for example, or you can become the new Mr. and Mrs. right on the shore. Couples and their guests can stay the night in one of the classic beach cottages and wake to the sound of crashing waves and ocean breezes.

Sherman Library & Gardens, Corona del Mar’s lovely garden oasis, is a peaceful, verdant venue with year-round blooms to accent a perfect indoor or outdoor wedding, along with stunning photographs and an elegant reception. The Tea Garden, the Pepper Tree Patio and the Central Patio Room, with its cathedral ceiling, skylights and large, white-brick fireplace, and catering by Pascal Prestige Catering, all offer upscale, unforgettable garden charm.

At Balboa Bay Club, couples can exchange vows with the sun, sailboats and the harbor all as witnesses to the happy event. From the rehearsal dinner to the ceremony and from the reception to the honeymoon, Balboa Bay Club deftly weaves it all together, creating a wedding that is definitely an event to remember.