Episode 20

“International Love Story”

They wanted their wedding to be whimsical, enchanting, unique and full of personal details.

To bring to life that vision of a rustic yet chic celebration, Mindy suggested the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa.

Join Kristen and I to learn more about this beautiful event, on episode 20.

Funny Story

In lieu of favors, they made a donation on behalf of our guests to the Search Dog Foundation. As guests began to leave the celebration, they received a cookie in the shape of a ‘Milk Bone’ that explained the donation. But many guests got confused, asking if they were real dog treats or human cookies!

Stressful moment:

Guest List: They cut down on some plus ones, kids, and had an honest conversation about who is really important in their lives.

From the bride: I secretly harbored the worry that people wouldn’t dance at our wedding. The Cowling Band immediately shattered that fear of mine. The dance floor was packed nearly the entire evening—guests rushed back to their tables to eat the next course and then returned to dance more.

Best decision: Hiring Mindy Weiss as a planner. And changing their mind about a videographer (And hiring one later on).

Bridal Party: To make the process easy, she just asked the girls to get a long black dress (with no sparkles or prom look). So they picked a dress that fit their bodies and budgets.

Budget advice: Having priorities straight. For them a band and an open bar were their first priorities.

What would you do differently: I wish that I started  “little things” sooner. Things like wrapping bridesmaids gifts, last minute décor, etc.

Planners and apps:  Mindy’s book and every possible bride magazine. +

Mindy Weiss

Menu:

For the menu, we chose to forgo notions of “proper” wedding food, and served what we loved—appetizers included sliders, fries in shot glasses, mini tacos, and mini grilled cheese dipped in tomato soup. Late night, trays of mini pizzas, mini Dr. Pepper floats (Austin’s favorite) and mini milkshakes were passed around.

-Our five-layer wedding cake mimicked the lace on my dress and our new monogram. It also had our golden retriever hidden on a layer, paws deep in frosting.  One of the layers contained a gluten-free wedge so that I could enjoy my own wedding cake.

Marriage advice:  Have a sense of humor and be patient. Have a weekend away a year and take time for yourself, remember you’re individuals.

From The Bride: Planning our wedding was the experience of a lifetime. We made it our mission to relax, not take ourselves too seriously, and revel in the planning process. We trust Mindy completely, which allowed us to let go of any anxiety—we knew the wedding was in great hands. 

Vendors:

Beauty:  Mariah Nicole Makeup & Hair Artistry

Bridal Designer: Vera Wang

Bridal Salon:  Saks Fifth Avenue

Cake: Charm City West

Consultant: Mindy Weiss

Entertainment: The Cowling Band for West Coast Music

Floral Design: Mark’s Garden

Formalwear: Astor & Black

Invitations: JAM

Jewelry: Eli Fish

Lighting: Images by Lighting

Mother’s Gown: Marchesa

Photography: Joy Marie Photography

Program Design: Jenny Ikari Design

Registries: Pottery Barn, Macy’s, Williams-Sonoma, Starwood Hotels

Rentals: Revelry

Shoes: Manolo Blahnik-bride

Veil: Homa

Venue: Ojai Valley Inn & Spa

Videography: Vidicam