Blogs

Guest Blogger: Nathaniel Neubauer, owner of Contemporary Catering
Nathaniel’s mom says it best: “When Nathaniel was turning three, I asked him what he wanted for his third birthday. He said, ‘Quiche.’” Ever since, Nathaniel’s love for food has never been far from reach. With his presence, Contemporary Catering quickly became a major contender in the Los Angeles catering industry. From overseeing production to designing a nine-course tasting menu with five-star service, Nathaniel’s dedication to his clients and his company is unparalleled.

Can’t decide whether to have a buffet or sit-down dinner at your wedding reception? Well, you really can’t go wrong with either option, and don't be afraid to custom-create your dining experience. At Contemporary Catering, we’ve seen couples choose to have a served salad course to help bring everyone together for a special moment of the evening (i.e. toasts or a first dance), and then go into a buffet-style meal.

There are many factors to keep in mind when planning for a buffet wedding reception:

We now have one more to add to our list of the most memorable TV weddings: Liz Lemon and Criss Chross from last night’s 30 Rock. Here, five reasons why we loved it:

The decidedly unromantic reason the couple got engaged
Liz and Criss have been trying to have a baby together. After Liz found out that her obnoxious ex and his wife, Dennis and Megan Duffy, adopted a baby with no trouble at all, she realizes that she and Criss might be more desirable to an adoption agency if they were married. Criss didn't disagree; “We’re as committed to each other as any married couple,” he said. “We might as well be married,” replied Liz. “So, let’s do it,” Criss decided. And there you have it — engaged. No ring, no romantic speech, just a mutual decision to make it official. 

Photo Credit: NBC Studios

In honor of the highly-anticipated nuptials of Liz Lemon (Tina Fey) and Criss Chross (James Marsden) on 30 Rock, we're taking a trip down memory lane at some of our favorite TV wedding episodes. Grab some Cheesy Blasters (Liz's favorite snack) and enjoy!

1. General Hospital: Luke and Laura
On November 16, 1981, 30 million guests tuned in to watch the most iconic TV wedding of all time. Luke and Laura were married in a gorgeous outdoor reception, but what made their big day special was the love that radiated from the fictional couple. But what would a soap opera be without a little drama and suspense? The evil Helena Cassadine (who was lurking nearby) cast a curse upon their relationship, setting the stage for a tumultuous future.

2. Boy Meets World: Topanga and Cory
Ever since they met on the monkeybars as kids, Topanga and Cory knew they were destined to be together. Their long-awaited nuptials were held in a high-end hotel thanks to the ill-advised plan that Cory’s brother, Eric, had concocted. Eric’s scheme goes awry when the real Mr. Peterman (father of the bride) shows up, abruptly ending the festivities. Meanwhile, Topanga and Cory are enjoying the honeymoon suite when the police barge in and arrest the unknowing couple.

With all of the work that goes into planning a successful event, it's easy for those small details to sneak up on you towards the end. I've spent so much time thinking about the venue layout and song selections for our reception in January that I have yet to find bridal accessories.

I adore vintage-inspired pieces because they have a handmade look and nostalgic feel that is perfect for my rustic fiesta wedding. I'm looking for drop earrings or a sparkly headpiece that will complete my outfit, not take away from it. Plus, I want pieces that I can re-wear long after our big day has come and gone. 

Below, you'll find some of my favorite accessories to match the vibe of your wedding, whether it's glam or beachy. Don't be afraid to mix it up! Choose pieces that will help you feel like a million bucks.

Glam

You’re never afraid to steal the spotlight wherever you go—and your wedding is no exception. Try celebrity-inspired costume jewelry that shows off your glamorous side on your big day.

These sparkly earrings complement a chic up-do. If you want to give your dress that extra touch of twinkle, add a sash. This one has maximum shine without being over-the-top.

Photo Credit: Rebakah Westover Photography

In most parts of the country, throwing a winter wedding is a gamble. A lot of people thought I was crazy for choosing a February date in New Jersey. Luckily, we were blessed with gorgeous weather on our wedding day — it snowed the following day! Here, the most important things I learned while planning my winter wedding:

You’ll Save Money — on Most Vendors
Since the winter isn’t a peak time to get married in most parts of the country, you can score some major discounts. We saved big on our venue, and we also got discounts on our photographer, videographer, DJ, and transportation. One area where we did not experience any savings: Flowers. Because there are fewer flowers in season, you may have to pay a premium or forego your first (or second or third) choice bloom. 

You’ll Need to Prepare for the Worst-Case Scenario
As a winter bride, you have to know the answer to the biggest question: what will you do if there’s a blizzard on your wedding day and no one can get there?

Warning: Major spoiler ahead if you haven’t read the book!Photo Credit: Lionsgate

During one of Catching Fire’s pivotal moments, Peeta proposes to Katniss during a televised interview with Caesar Flickerman. But the scene didn’t go very smoothly during filming:

"I have proposed to Katniss," Josh Hutcherson, who plays Peeta, told MTV News. "Funny story: When we shot it, the actual proposal itself is done where you don't hear what we're saying, so I was just saying gibberish while I was proposing to her on one knee. Actually, the very first time I went to get down on one knee, my pants ripped right down the crotch. The worst thing that could happen when you're proposing to somebody is that your pants rip right down the crotch, and that's what happened to Peeta. So... he's doomed. He's doomed. Poor guy, he just can't catch a break."

Aww, poor Peeta! Tell us: What do you think is the worst possible thing that could happen during a proposal?

—Kristen O'Gorman Klein

Whether you're holding your wedding near a winter holiday, like Christmas or Hanukkah, or on the actual day (New Year's Eve!), there are plenty of ways to incorporate the best of the season in your wedding day. We checked in with Sari Mintz, founder of ForYourParty.com, for some fun ways to personalize your winter wedding and bring in the festive feeling of the season. 

"Grinchmas" Kids' Party
During your cocktail hour or reception, set  up a special Grinch-themed area just for the kids! 

Serve "Green Grinch Punch," dressed up with customized stirrers.

Ingredients:
1/3 cup Imperial Sugar® / Dixie Crystals® Granulated Sugar
6 tablespoons plus 1-1/2 teaspoons water
1/3 cup evaporated milk
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
12 drops neon green food coloring
1 bottle (2 liters) lemon-lime soda, chilled
2 pints vanilla ice cream

Directions:
In a large saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook and stir over medium heat until sugar is dissolved; remove from the heat. Stir in milk and extract.

Transfer to a bowl; cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate until chilled. Just before serving, transfer milk mixture to a punch bowl. Stir in the food coloring and soda. Top with scoops of ice cream. Yield: 4 quarts.

If you're a bride who loves TLC's wedding shows, you have one more thing to be thankful for this Thanksgiving: on Thursday, the channel is serving up a double dose of bridal fun with a special episode of  Four Weddings,  followed by the premiere of their latest series, Along for the Bride.

In the holiday episode of "Four Weddings," the competition is getting a mother's touch: Attending and judging the weddings is being handed over to the mothers of the four brides. These moms will show how they truly know best by critiquing each wedding for its food, venue, dress, and overall experience.

Here's a preview of all the fun to expect in this epidode:

The mom who scores the most points will win a luxury honeymoon for her daughter and new son-in-law. I personally can't wait to see this sentimental moment when the winning daughter rejoyces with her mother! Watch with your mom on Thanksgiving at 9 p.m.

I can hardly believe that the holiday season is upon us! And what better time is there to break out a little bubbly or sparking wine to toast the season?

One of my favorites is an Italian sparkling wine, the Santa Margherita Sparkling Rosè from Terlato Wines International. It’s light, fresh and fruity (but not cloyingly sweet) and pairs beautifully with everything from French toast to grilled salmon, chicken, Asian and vegetable dishes. And it’s ideal with desserts, making it a perfect choice for all your upcoming celebrations.

Here’s a wedding-perfect signature cocktail you’ll love, created by Michael MacDonnel, Director of Beverage Monte Carlo Resort & Casino:

Raspberry Kiss Cocktail

1½ oz Raspberry-flavored vodka
¾ oz Crème de Cassis
1½ oz. fresh lemon sour
3-5 fresh raspberries
1½ to 3 oz Santa Margherita Sparkling Rosè
Sugar for rim of glass

Steps:

1. Sugar the rim of the cocktail glass; use a flute or martini glass for best presentation
2. Pour vodka, Crème de Cassis, lemon sour and fresh raspberries into cocktail shaker; top with ice
3. Shake vigorously
4. Strain into glass
5. Top with Santa Margherita Sparkling Rosè
6. Optional garnish: add fresh raspberries

Enjoy this special cocktail with family and friends and here’s to many more celebratory moments!

—Diane Forden

Guest blogger: Rosanna Casper, co-founder of Idojour.com, a wedding website where brides, grooms, family and friends can purchase a stylish and affordable mix of beautifully curated pieces. Designed to make wedding planning all the more inspiring and enjoyable, Idojour offers accessories and apparel for your wedding weekend, complemented by both inspirational and practical content. Rosanna oversees content, among many other things, and makes sure that everything comes together beautifully on the site.

Here, Rosanna shares her picks for what to wear to a winter wedding.

They say it's the most wonderful time of the year; ornaments and lights, eggnog and candy canes, holiday parties and, of course, those beautiful winter weddings. Now, just because it's cold outside doesn't mean you can't (and shouldn't) look fabulous. Besides, what better time to break out the sequins and lace and color than the holidays?

Just remember to stay warm with stockings and closed-toe shoes, and accessorize with a fun pair of gloves, a hat and perhaps a gorgeous feather coverup!

Ballroom