California Wedding Wave

Photography by: Focus Photography
This gorgeous couple celebrated their marriage at The Rancho Bernardo Inn.

From sandy stretches of sparkling beaches to charming inland vineyards and chic downtown loft spaces, there’s something in San Diego to suit any couple planning on tying the knot here. However, there are some things you should keep in mind:
1. San Diego does have a winter! It’s called May Grey and June Gloom. Weather in the coastal region can have a heavy marine layer so if you’re planning on hosting an outdoor wedding, think about a Plan B should the weather be cooler.
2. Think about fire season in San Diego County; this is a true danger and can grow in the late summer months and fall season. Be cautious when planning a wedding inland.
3. Consider whether your wedding will be a destination wedding for your guests. If so, choose a locale that will give your guests a fun experience while they’re in town. Think about the beaches and locations that have something to offer families and are close to San Diego attractions {think downtown, Coronado, SeaWorld, and the Zoo}.
4. Think outside the box. If you want to create a truly unique experience, consider renting a private estate to house your wedding soiree. The possibilities are endless and estates often act as a blank canvas, allowing for virtually any style, ambiance, and theme.

Whatever you choose to do, San Diego is the perfect place to do it!

We’re thrilled to post our first article on California Wedding Wave and are really looking forward to sharing our planning tips with you! We welcome any planning questions that you want answered as well.
Cheers! Aleah + Nick Valley of The Good Life Event Specialists

Photography by: Next Exit Photography

In the 2008 Los Angeles edition of Ceremony Magazine, Mary Dann-McNamee of Mary Dann Wedding & Party Coordinators provided readers with some very valuable information on tipping etiquette. Mary has recently written a book, along with Leila Khalil of Be Inspired, Wedding Public Relations, entitled Wedding Wisdom: An Insightful Approach to Wedding Planning, where she shares her wisdom and experience as not only a talented wedding coordinator but as a marriage and family counselor, too!

Because weddings are often a one-time event, many people are unaware of or unsure about tipping etiquette. Almost all of your vendors are in the service business, so gratuities are always appreciated. The following is a list of what is customary, but of course, not mandatory. Keep in mind that a kind note of thanks can be gratuity enough.

Service Provider                           Tip Amount                             % of Time They Are Tipped

Banquet Captain                           $50-$200                                 99.9%

Catering Manager/                        $50-$500                                 50%
Director of Catering

Bellman                                        $5-$20 each                            100%

Any Musicians or DJs                     $20-$50                                   50%

Videographers                               $40-$100                                 40%

Photographers                               $50-$200                                 40%

Hair & Makeup                              10%-20%                                 90%

Officiant                                       $20-$100                                 50%

DJ                                                $50-$100                                 50%

Floral Designer                              $50-$200                                 70%

Wedding Coordinator &                  $300-$1000                              80%
Team