Joanna Hendrie Fêtes - Weddings and Events Blog

Big Day! Big Hair!

2011-11-14T14:26:00.000-08:00

Exaggerate Your Look! You are the Star!

Wedding Day Hair - The first thing a bride concerns herself with - Here, below are picks for everyone - or maybe not - come see ten looks - Choose or be inspired to create your own look. All these styles generously offered up by Moiz Alladina - Le Coiffeur to Vogue and Elle Magazines. He has included inspiration as well as "how tos" to help you get each one of these designs along with detailed guidance.

So tell me -- What beautiful woman are you?

Glitzy Jazz Babe

Saucy Pin Up

Dainty Elfin

Charming Mademoiselle

Darling Grace Kelly

Innocent Vintage Romantic

Worldly Heiress

Earthy & Beachy Boho Chic

Sophisticated Up Town Girl

???

VIA

Joanna

Joanna Weddings Cuisine Thursday - French Cuisine Rehearsal Luncheon

2011-04-07T11:32:00.000-07:00

Le Jardin du Thé Menu

French Cuisine for The Bridal Luncheon or an Afternoon Rehearsal Luncheon

Here is a look at just some of what we have planned coming your way this spring 2011 on one of our Wedding Brasserie Menus.

Bon Appetite!

Pâté de Canard

Duck Pate with pistachio nuts, cornichons and mustard

Assorted French Cheeses

Cranberry compote, tea infused honey and warm baguettes

Blinis de Saumon Fumé

Tea Smoked salmon and crème fraiche and oestra caviar

Grilled Rosemary Prawns

Green peppercorns & blood orange vinaigrette

Salade Nicoise

Salad Le Jardin

Mixed baby lettuces tossed with candied walnuts and black fig vinaigrette

Un Mambo à Paris

Grilled ham and Cheese with a sliced avocado, vine tomato and spicy goat cheese

Croque Monsieur

White bread with layers of Gruyere cheese, ham and béchamel, topped with melted Gruyere

Quiche aux Legume

Spring vegetable tart with baby greens raspberry vinaigrette

Oeufs poachés aux asperges

Poached eggs with grilled asparagus on rye toasts and shaved parmesan

Tea Smoked Salmon Salad

Baby mache lettuce tossed with vine tomatoes, caramelized fennel and mustard vinaigrette

Sandwich au Merguez

Spicy lamb sausage with harissa and grilled onions

Beverages
Coffee (French Roast)
Espresso (Vienna)
Cappuccino

Café au Lait

Hot Cocoa
Tea (Marriage Freres Paris)
Ice Tea
Lemonade
Champagne
Wines
Beers

Look for more Wedding Springtime Menus next week!

Avec Joie!
Joanna

Tous Les Jours....

2011-03-01T22:21:00.000-08:00

2010-12-20T10:47:00.000-08:00

This season the models at the Dior fashion show exemplified the luxury of the Paris woman and her lips. Big cosmetic names invariably make much about lips. They have spoken - and the bright coral lips and retro berry lips are Parisian women’s favorites. Daytime and running around time you'll find American and Parisian women and brides love the "Au natural" look - pale make up and faint pink lips. For a wedding - brides are choosing bright colors in the beginning of the fall and winter. They are craving berried lipsticks and clear reds -the color is a standout - it makes one's teeth and skin more white, luminescent, translucent and natural. French women wear very little makeup and what they do wear is applied to appear as a very natural unmade up look. Too much makeup, according to French women, makes you seem older and less refined.

From what I have learned women in Paris pay more attention to the exquisiteness of their lips - and to such a degree that - well they spend at least 20 minutes every day drawing a perfect lip line. (but did I tell you that it lasts all day)

One French makeup artist has been quoted as saying that Parisian women will use several lipsticks at the same time, and will not leave home until she makes her lips plump and solid.

Pay special attention to red lipsticks - not all reds are equal - for a great evening out and of course for a wedding, nothing draws more attention to a beautiful face than equisite skin and an unforgettable mouth.

In Her Words – Mom’s Recipe for Holiday Eggnog!

2010-12-16T19:21:00.000-08:00

Below is my Mother’s eggnog recipe (finally found it) as she wrote it - verbatim. I would look forward to this beverage every Christmas growing up in Arcadia together with my family. Years later as I entertained I would sometimes skip Mom’s handmade ‘nog and purchase Knudsen's own eggnog from the Gelson's cold case and then attempt to recall Mom's version as I poured whatever was plentiful from the cupboards into the Eggnog Pitcher. Not this year – I plan to have on hand this Christmas Eve a big punchbowl full of Mom’s Recipe for Eggnog. Here it is….

Beat separately the yolks and whites of six “fresh eggs”. Add ½ cup of sugar to yolks while beating and ¼ cup of sugar to whites after they have been beaten very stiff. Mix egg yolks with egg whites.

Stir in one pint of rich cream and one pint of really good Irish whiskey (Jameson) and 1 oz. of yummy Jamaican rum (Appleton Rum Estate VX Jamaican) Stir thoroughly. Chill. Serve very cold with grated nutmeg on each cup.

This recipe makes five pints of eggnog or 2/ ½ quarts. And of course don't forget the hand whipped cream on top.

Here are other found recipes Mom brought with her from Canada...

Mincemeat Pie

Canadian Shortbread Cookies

Plum Pudding and Hard Sauce &

Dad's Tom and Jerry Brew

More later…. Joanna

Mood Board Autumn Wedding 2011 - Orange = Festivity

2010-11-13T19:00:00.000-08:00

Apple Chair Swag – Fdcraft.com

Edible Cocktails - Thedropbar.com

Front Door Greeting “The French Kiss Cocktail” with Orange twists

Garden White Canopies – Lator-ets.fr.

Green Plaid Linens & Custom Napkins – Fdcraft.com

Hair Simple and upsweep, elegant & timeless – Shopbando.com

Multichic’s Arcadia Rocks’ Glass

Honeymoon Scooter Reform School Rules’ Amish Made Scooter .

Snappy Slipper Orange Ilkat Chair – Urban Outfitters

Succulents & Fruits - Cacti, Citrus cymbidium, Elephant Leaves – Ojai Garden

The Cuff: By Kendra Scott

Vin and Fromage Bar - Pine Table – Frontgate

L’Orange - the color of Festivity! - Here we've created a loose mood board for my Bride and Groom centered around the sexy color orange for inspiration. The first element the couple wants to complete is an initial mood board - Voila Ici! - as an overview of the reception - and one of three mood boards to define the occasion. The beautiful redheaded Bride and handsome Groom both architects want to be married at home or at least celebrate very close to home with the inclusion of family and friends. Favorite foods are citrus - apples, oranges, and cheese and lots of Chardonnay.

Deferring most of the design and concept to the Bride and Groom ours was to interpret their "eye". They want to add architectural design elements to their reception as a reflection of them as a couple and their profession (architects). Taking their inspiration from great architectural designers they admire, and reflecting on their architectural principles they have begun designing their day. They're resurrecting, reflecting and combining memories with their hopes creating their “Dream Reception”. Here are some of the elements:

Several ethnic bold-patterned slipper chairs for relaxation - intimate and homey - unexpected and later to be moved into the couple’s home as wing chairs in the dining and living room.

A French 6’ pine table will serve double duty as a “Vin and Fromage” tasting table” complete with a “Greeting Cocktail” - ”The French Kiss” with Orange Twists; and French Aperitifs, mixers and garnishes, French cheeses and small baguettes.

Same pine table will double as a “The Scotch Bar” and offerings of candied pecans, dried fruit, figs, pineapple and hand make crackers.

Canopies and tents are to be ordered – and several custom made by a local sailmaker in small, large shapes and vintage shapes – the reception tent will be lined with a punchy small stripe fabric in the colors to match the slipper chairs. The same fabric is to be used for the “The Ladies’ Vanity Tent”, “The Bride’s Canopy” and a "Children’s Tent".

Stylish and sophisticated, edible cocktails are to be created as well as cootie catcher for menus.

A local caterer will be serving up “in-season courses” and she will use locally grown ingredients as well. (Within 100 miles)

A few vintage and modern chandeliers in the space are being considered.

Lastly – in addition to wedding rings and earings, simple architectural gold cuffs for the Bride's wrist and arm have been acquired.

More Later....

Here's to Bonne Planning

Joanna

Signature Wedding Cocktail - Le Passioniste

2010-10-06T02:29:00.000-07:00

I can't remember the occasion but I do remember there was a party, a beautiful home and a seductive drink called "Le Passioniste". I remember the party home's terrace hung over a rocky beach and the mood was one of sensory overload - the view, the food, the company and the "drink" made the evening a memorable event. For years I've dreamt of the "party cocktail" and just recently suggested it as a Signature Cocktail to one of my couples. I thought it would make a great "Memory Making Cocktail" for their Ojai reception this fall. Here’s the recipe – I hope you love it as much as I do.

Enjoy!

“LE PASSIONISTE”

You’ll need just a flair of ginger liqueur, then add the best rum & and the very best tropical orange and guava juice you can find. Recommendations - make fresh squeezed orange juice and then combine with guava juice.

Use good Ron Zacapa Centenario rum - it is aged rum that can be found at your specialty liquor stores.

Use Domaine de Canton – for the ginger-flavored liqueur,

2 ounces orange-guava juice
1 1/2 ounces aged Ron Zacapa Centenario
1/2 ounce ginger liqueur Domaine de Canton
4 dashes of orange bitters
Ice

Ok Now -

For one cocktail combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker then fill with ice. Cover and shake until thoroughly chilled. Strain into rock glass. Repeat for Cocktail #2. Then together raise your glasses - look into each others eyes and say – with feeling! A Votre Sante!

Paris Handmade Bride's Gifts: Suuz Designs – Colorful Beaded Necklaces

2010-06-30T15:22:00.000-07:00

Shopping is fun - especially when it's for someone else. I like wedding gift shopping for my brides and both wedding families; I'm always looking for unique gifts, food items, spirits, wine; you name it I love to hand pick treasures for my friends and clients. Today I am looking for Paris Handmade Bridal Gifts and my first stop of the day is the Etsy site where I discovered Suuz Designs and Susanne our "The Artiste Tous Jour". After living on a tropical island for 10 years, Susanne now calls Paris her home and loves working with glass and colors.

Nearly 1500 Etsy shoppers can’t be wrong – Susanne is a brilliant artist. She creates these magnificent beads in her Paris Studio - then hand makes one of kind beaded necklaces - They are Breathtaking!

Here's her “Paris Studio”. Impressive!

I can feel the island vibe.

Now, take a look at Susanne's Creations

I'm set - let's take a few home today...

Here's to Bonne Planning & Bonne Shopping!

Joanna

Historic Wedding Venue: Adamson House in Malibu, California

2010-06-29T17:25:00.000-07:00

Facade Adamson House

Front Door Entrance

Great View of Front Entrance

This is the Back Patio

How about this Kitchen

Pool House Mural

The Malibu Tile

Side Patio

View up the Coast

Fountain Area and Wedding Site

If you've dreamt of a Spanish Countryside Wedding consider - This “work of art” beach house built in 1929, in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. The house was given to Rhoda and Merritt Adamson as a gift from her mother, May Rindge, the last owner of Malibu. The historic masterpiece beach house “The Adamson House” in Malibu is set on a beautiful ocean front property set high above the Pacific Coast Highway; and is adorned with sycamore lawns, a front courtyard, and a rear lawn by a star shaped fountain.

The brochure describes the view from the House - “From the balcony behold the breathtaking panoramic views of Santa Monica Bay. Listen to the surf as it crashes on the beach and see a bird’s eye view of your reception.”

The property is luxurious, historic and breathtaking and is open to all weddings and receptions outdoors. It is probably the most pristine of the historical properties I’ve seen and a perfect spot for a 200 guest wedding. The property boasts 13 acres of land above Surfrider Beach on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California.

The brochure invites one to “step back in time and experience a house that is 95% preserved, complete with the family’s belongings and furniture, just as it was when Rhoda and Merritt Adamson lived there with their three children during the 30's,40's and 50's.”

As the Adamson House is a National Historical Site and a California Registered Landmark, please consider one important item and that is there are no parties booked inside the home. With a couples’ reception on the grounds, the Adamson House offers the option of “opening” the house for docent led tours during the cocktail hour. Weddings and special events are scheduled from April through October.

One suggestion, visit the property with your wedding planner. Visit the park, walk the beautiful ocean front property, and take a docent led tour of the house. Seeing this historic breathtaking “beach house” full of Malibu Potteries tile (see notes below), and hearing about the history of the last family to own Malibu is remarkable.

Suggestions: At your wedding and during the cocktail reception, your guests can tour The Adamson House with an informative docent, while your wedding party is with your photographer.

Here are some more details to consider: The Adamson House is open to weddings from April to October. The cost to have a wedding on the grounds is not your average and one must consider transporting “everything” to the property – Oh! But the view! The grassy area next to the iconic star fountain is probably where most of the weddings are held and with direct access to the beach.

A Bit about the Decor

The Adamson House is decorated in striking, unusual and valuable Malibu tile and there is a Persian style rug made entirely of Malibu tile. The hand painted ceilings, doors, cabinets, and frescos are the creation of two artists, Ejnar Hansen and Peter Neilsen. One cannot get away from the sight of and the details of hand forged wrought iron and the glow of colored and rondel glass windows.

The lavish use of exquisite ceramic tile, produced by Malibu Potteries (1926-32), is a hallmark of the house. The use of decorative tile has always been characteristic of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. Mrs. Rindge decided to utilize the unique red and buff burning clays that existed in the Malibu area, as well as an abundant supply of water from a spring in Sweetwater Canyon, to establish the Malibu Potteries. Beginning in 1926, a profusion of brilliant tiles flowed from this establishment to hundreds of residential and public buildings throughout Southern California.

The Adamson House is at:
23200 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265-4937

Here’s to Bonne Planning!

Joanna

Los Angeles Sample Sale: Monique Lhuillier

2010-06-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

Monique Lhuillier Sample Sale

What: It’s the mother lode of matrimonial must-haves at today’s as-is sale with sample bridal and ready-to-wear marked down 40-90 percent.

Why: Simple charmeuse sheaths for $350, strapless satin trumpet gowns for $700, and lace and rare new gowns for $1,400 and up.
When: Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 1201 S. Grand Ave., b/t W. Twelfth St. & Pico Blvd., Downtown.

Inspiration: Canadian Style

2010-06-23T07:55:00.000-07:00

WedLuxe Summer/Fall 2010 from Cloud Nine Creative on Vimeo.

I research and review the Canadian wedding market media all the time as well as French and Italian. I feel that the images and content we see and read here in the states start to percolate in Europe many months prior.

After I previewed the dazzling Wedluxe, Canada’s Luxury Wedding video, I jumped out of my chair and headed on over to Barnes and Noble. With luck, I was able to pick up my copy of the new June issue of the glossy Wedluxe, Luxury Magazine. The magazine’s content and visuals are fresh, moving and very different.

Rated by Wedding experts, WedLuxe is "one of ten innovators" in the wedding industry today. Wedluxe produces two entirely unique issues for both Canadian coasts, every six months, and this month the magazine has two exceptional cover designs. The content is totally unique and dedicated to daydreaming.

Dear Brides, if you want a “New & Refresh Approach" in designing your wedding, in addition to our American glossies, look to our European and Canadian counterparts for unique inspiration.

Pick up your copy of Wedluxe, Canada’s Luxury Magazine.

Here's to good planning,

Joanna

Natural Paris - Beauty on the Streets

2010-04-29T00:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have have been away for awhile. Now, as I ready by posts for next week's journaling please take a look at some real Paris beauties. More events next week.

Here's to Good Planning,

Joanna

Do It Yourself Bride: Vintage Papers + Glitter + Chocolate Bars = Irresistible Favors

2010-03-30T09:41:00.000-07:00

This is a “very simple" do it yourself wedding favor craft. Gather up all your pastel glitter vials, your vintage wallpaper scraps and purchase some nice size Hershey Bars (enough for each guest ++). Display as individual favors, front and center on you guest’s plate and atop a crisp white linen napkin. Or gather up "en masse" and showcase on your Wedding Reception Dessert Table.

Here is what you will need if you want to make these yourself.

• Chocolate bars (I buy Hershey’s plain no peanuts)
• Vintage wallpapers, scrapbook paper, or wrapping paper
• Glitter
• Double-sided tape
• Glue pen or Elmer's Glue
• Scissors and/or paper-trimmer

To start, cut strips of paper (I prefer vintage wallpaper, heavier) into strips, slightly wider than the "Hershey" logo – and let some of the silver foil show. Secure vintage paper strips with double sided tape. Finally sprinkle glitter (in tones matching papers or silver to match the silver foil) on some of the design elements of the vintage wallpaper.

There you have it - pretty and simple!

P.S. Purchase the miniature Hersheys and decorate for Kid's Birthday Party.

Here's to Bonne Planning

Joanna

Provence Wedding - 2010 Bridal Trends Continue in the South of France

2010-03-30T09:40:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in one of my earlier posts the bridal fashion statement this year is vintage and intimate. This photo captures this trend. Snapped in Provence this exquisite bride wears great grandmother's laced wedding gown in muted shades of whites, off white and pink. I can only imagine the wedding was small and cozy and deep in the French countryside. However, keep in mind that it isn't always less expensive to be married in the country or at home; it is however much cozier and far more intimate.

Here's to Bonne Planning

Joanna

Bonne Mood Board: Turning Winter to Spring

2010-03-30T07:23:00.000-07:00

The pastel pink color palette with pale green and cream reminds me of winter turning to spring. Simple and elegantly perfect for the bride that wants a very low key affair. This wedding is set at home in the country with perfectly manicured green lawns with flowering peonies shrubs and blossoming trees providing a magical background. Classic spring fare of roasted lamb and rosemary and handmade vanilla macaroons as take away favors. For blossomy floral arrangement I’d choose pink and cream roses combined with lily of the valley, and would continue the blossom theme with the bridal accessories, cake and invitations.

Wedding Day Accoutrement - Bridal Beauty: Paperself Eyelashes

2010-03-17T11:44:00.000-07:00

I have an extraordinary find for the bride. Do you want to make a bridal statement lovely bride? Something a little different has come my way. Consider adding these to your bespoke Wedding ensemble; extraordinary wedding eyelashes inspired by the traditional craft of Chinese paper cutting.

The Paperself Eyelashes are available in (5) five different styles; each pattern represents a traditional Chinese symbol. The Horse symbolizes success; Peonies - happiness and Peach Blossoms - love. Which ever one you choose to wear, these fabulous lashes are guaranteed to turn heads.

For the bride who wants to make a statement the super sexy large lashes are available to purchase. For a wedding day walk down the aisle, the more subtle “petites”. Brides in the United States and outside Britain you can mail order from this British Shop, the only stockers of the Paperself Eyelashes.

Please let me know how they work out!

Here's to Good Planning!

Joanna

Bonne Inspiration: A Thoroughly Thoughtful Mood Board

2010-02-25T21:30:00.000-08:00

I really enjoyed reading today’s post from Sarah at True Events. I really like her creative process and the collaborative effort she shared with her bride Erin in the creation of Erin's Wedding Mood Board. Also, I like the fact that Erin started a journal/blog but most importantly that she understood that besides being a memory keeper the blog was also a marketing tool for her wedding event. Erin understood the need for a designer/planner. After reading Erin’s blog, I came away knowing Erin was overwhelmed and wanted help to harness her mind full of ideas. When planning a wedding whether small and intimate or large and encompassing several venues, get and hire a good planner. There's just too much wedding minutiæ for a lay person to handle.

Sarah read Erin’s blog, and heard “Simple Elegance, Romantic, Rustic, Vintage, and Whimsical". Then the designer implemented her good design process along with the brides written inspiration - (French Provincial meets Paris Chic, vineyard but not too wine focused, fall but not overkill of oranges and yellow, soft & warm lighting, browns, dark blues, dark purples, flowers but not too flowery, candles, lanterns, and the list goes on...). The designer/planner whittled the bride’s musings down to:

“Rustic Chic Inspiration” and the creation of:

A "Thought Filled" Mood Board.

Here's to Bonne Planning

Joanna

Via Source

Vintage Bonne Papier & Ribbons: Alice in Wonderland & Paris' Printemp Windows

2010-02-25T11:04:00.000-08:00

The wedding planning inspiration behind today's blog entry is "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" and my tiny collection of two vintage Lewis Carroll books that we kids read growing up in LA. As my family’s default librarian and photo keeper; and a cinema junky I am so looking forward to rereading the books (pulled both volumes off my library bookshelf last night and started to read them both again - easy reads. The two 1936 books: "Through the Looking Glass and What Alice found there" and "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland") and seeing Johnny Depp in “Alice in Wonderland" the movie.

Johnny and Alice have inspired my wedding planning DIY bridal vintage find today. Please trot on over to Esty and shop online at Pinkcherrymama. Her product pics are so believable I want to pick each and every vintage tag off the screen. As a crafter, Pinkcherrymama has loads to offer a Vintage DIY bride. She has “old world eyes” and designs vintage, well-used objects with well-loved style. She embraces all things distressed and apparently is entertained and has loads of fun recreating the vintage looks in her own paper crafts. See you soon at her Esty Shop. Now don’t go away.

Take a looky at Paris’ Printemp Department Store's window displays and their homage to the film “Alice in Wonderland”.

Here's to Bonne Planning

Joanna

Accoutrement: Bespoke Boutonnieres Fritts Rosenow

2010-02-17T16:34:00.000-08:00

This is the spot for you guys to go that don’t want to wear posies and flowers on your lapels – I know you and have met you. Some have expressed their flower overload. Gentlemen, please express yourselves, pop on over and lay you eyes and hands on Fritts Rosenow Bespoke Boutonnieres – here the proprietor allows men to display their own unique personalities. Each boutonniere is created with the individual male in mind. Your dream wedding may involve yachting, skateboarding, moose hunting, and butterflies?

Compromise and create a custom boutonniere that captures your spirit!

Joanna

Bonne Planning - Sunday Wedding and Event Planning

2010-02-14T13:31:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

How is your week faring? Have you planned each day Monday through Sunday and jotted down each appointment (yourself included) (in pencil), for your exercise, family, kids, hobbies and have you blocked time for your work in your agenda/planner? People have asked me, now that I am an entrepreneur, a wedding planner and designer and out of corporate life, how do I spend my days? My gosh - shock set in. Is it not clear and obvious what i do? I guess not – they don’t see me any more running to my car to be at work and on time, nor carrying my bag of lunch that is bobbling for a spot on top of my briefcase. You know what? They need to see my agenda/planner.

It took "some time" to know how to "spend my time" in my business. In the beginning I was “reacting” to bookings, consultations, appointments, lunches, instead of planning for them. Looking back, I wish I had put all my systems in place beforehand. Since those first days I have now become a master organizer, my thinking is clearer, sharper, I focus on each project with deep concentration. I do not allow interruptions. Have more energy, and I look forward to each and every day. How? My agenda/planner.

I update my agenda each Sunday. I am a visual type so I keep my agenda in paper format (Moleskin). I also keep a handheld electronic (Blackberry) calendar that I update on the road but then transfer to paper when back at my office. By Sunday evening around 5:00PM I know where I am going to be for the following week, if not the entire month. I leave open several blocks of one hour time slots for last minute client consults and changes in time for client meetings. Some juggling does occur – but I try not to juggle too much.

My days are busier than ever as I am doing “everything” to grow my business. That includes keeping my agenda/planner current. I am self motivated and self propelled each day. I find I do a lot of positive self talk in silence, out loud and in the car and between meetings and projects. I have learned to be “tough minded” – something I learned to do and practice from a former “great boss of mine” (thanks Tim). To be an entrepreneur you have to be tough on yourself – and you have to write everything down – somewhere – let’s start with your agenda/planner. Are you tough minded?

This is how my agenda looks most days - like you, I need an hour of some type of aerobic exercise, some lifting. Household chores and errands I get out of the way in the AM and then right about 9:30AM I start with phone calls for a couple of hours, lunch is with a vendor or with a client and after lunch I go straight to my calendar and review my “chunked schedule”. My calendar consists of an hour or two for Vendor Meetings; Marketing Meetings: sales, networking, database management, Client Management; Research and Merchandising; Web and E-Commerce and Publishing: Blogs, Web, Twitter, Ning. E-Letters, etc. In the PM: Networking; Studio Kitchen (when we have a catering job) Client Dinners, Event Management. By the end of the day I spend an hour on reflection and gratitude.

So now a have a solid schedule I can proudly share with my friends – they have stopped asking me what I do all day.

Guess What?

They now all want to work for me. To be continued….

Here's to Bonne Planning!

Joanna

P.S. I like Google Calendar

Friday Star Blogger: Mints Design - San Francisco

2010-02-05T00:01:00.000-08:00

Mints Design is a design studio and a blog dedicated to wedding & event design as well as all forms of beautiful things. Mints is known for East meets West in Style, blending contemporary European and exotic Oriental elegance into floral art. Their style is intoxicating, new, fresh and stylish. Thinking outside the box since 2007 this is Mints Design.

Merci Mints for the Inspiration.

Joanna

Bonne Idees: The Art of Party Festivity

2010-01-28T19:10:00.000-08:00

What sets the tone – when it’s time to party? Playing good music. You must have: Background music playing the minute, I mean the minute a guest steps through the door and don’t forget the sound of popping champagne corks. Think festive, festive! Make sure your guests are served quickly. Waiters should circulate a room with trays filled with cocktails (perhaps your Signature Wedding Day Cocktail), champagne, or wine or sparking water or hors d’oeuvres. Also, instruct your waiters not to miss those guests waiting in the receiving line (Note: the receiving line is the best opportunity to greet each guest individually and thank him or her for coming to your wedding. And if you're having more than 50 guests, it's considered proper etiquette. The line also guarantees your guests a minute of face-to-face time with you, a chance to hug, kiss, and congratulate you both. If you rely instead on the more casual greet-them-as-you-see-them approach, you may spend the whole party in a tailspin, ducking out of conversations to say hello to people you haven't greeted yet, and inevitably you'll end up missing someone)

What about humor, adding some laughs to your weddng? Here are some great ways to add a little fun to a wedding day. Something I personally found to enliven the kid in every guest is the funny bendable plastic tube that glows in the dark. At an outdoor reception I attended everyone was dancing in the dark with these crazy things wrapped around their heads – what a sight, everyone was having a blast.

Other great ways culled from real weddings that I have experienced and that add humor and fun to a wedding day are:

Hand out sparklers for a dazzling send off at the end of the evening. Or, place a tiny swag bag filled with childhood candy favorites and silly toys and noisemakers at each guests place setting.

Rent a pop corn vending machine for guests to serve themselves as they wait in the receiving line.

Or have you thought about games - How about scheduling a treasure hunt, a croquet match? More about these later.

Here's to Good Planning!

Joanna

Bonne Inspiration: Vintage Themes Among Wedding Trends Expected in 2010

2010-01-19T18:37:00.000-08:00

I found this very informative article on line last night and thought it was realy very interesting; and also includes the colors forecast for this year too.

As with any fashion statement, whether it is in home décor or clothing trends for the upcoming year, there are also forecasts on the trends expected in 2010 weddings.

One of the most common trends will be intimacy. Whether it means a smaller wedding, or a backyard event complete with a homey barbeque, more and more weddings will be smaller scale. This is partly due to couples not wanting to spend a lot given the recent economic times. Keep in mind that it isn't always less expensive to be married at home; it is much cozier and far more intimate.

Many, many couples are turning to DIY for their weddings. From invitations to thank you cards right down to guest favours, the bride and groom are seeking out big craft and business stores to find cost-effective solutions to their budgetary concerns. Some are deciding not to give favours to their guests as a cost-saving measure even though they are well aware of the expense for a couple to attend a wedding; others feel that an expression of their thanks to their guests is extremely important.

Vintage themes are in! Consider 1950's as the inspiration.

Things like Birdcage Veils (a hat or head piece with a veil covering only the face), feather headpieces with a feather clip earring, a headpiece with jewels, and mermaid style gowns are all vintage inspired.

Cake styles from the 50's and 60's where traditional two-tier cakes with traditional cake-toppers and bouquets where elaborate arm bouquets or cascades are in.

Bridesmaids dresses: How often have you heard of a bridesmaid hating the dress she had to wear in a wedding, and, sometimes more than once? Well, the trend now is for brides to choose the colour of the dresses. They leave it up to the bridesmaid to choose a style she likes and one that suits her, making it more likely a dress to be worn in future. They can find off the rack dresses for reasonable prices. Some guidelines have to be issued before the purchases can take place, but everyone ends up happy.

As well as the mermaid dress mentioned earlier, there will be a move toward luxurious ball gowns in heavier fabrics. Asymmetry will be important as will ruffles, draping and some irregular finishes. Is strapless gone? Not a chance. It will continue to be very strong. If you want colour rather than white, this is the year! Bold colours are strong in the colour forecast.

We have seen the unity candle and the sand ceremony. Now there is the Love Letter. It's a beautiful trend with the Bride and Groom each writing a love letter to the other person. The letters are handed to the Officiant, who will say a few words over them, then they are placed in a box, it is locked, and it is not opened until a date the couple chooses. (I call this the Wedding Box Ceremony and several of my couples chose to include it in their ceremony in 2010).

From food, to attire and décor, being eco-friendly continues to motivate vendors to provide cost-effective and environmentally sound choices for the green-minded couple.

Here is a list of the big colours for 2010 weddings: lilac, magenta, pink, mauve, coral, turquoise, gray, fuchsia, buttercup, mango, light blue, navy, and cobalt blue. Think of vintage colours and destinations such as the Caribbean, and you'll be right on. From these colours there are beautiful combinations, let your imagination run wild!

It's your wedding, your budget, your statement, and your style. No matter what the trends are for 2010, you will remember your wedding day for the romance and commitment of the day.

Joanna

Bonne Mariage: Real Wedding - Marjory Alyce Isabelle Hendrie and Captain Herbert Lionel Hendrie, Toronto, Canada

2010-01-18T00:01:00.000-08:00

In Memory - January 18, 2006

This day four years ago I lost my dear sweet mother. And years prior my Dad passed away. Today I want to pay homage to two of the sweetest and most thoughtful people I have ever known; and did I mention how seriously handsome these two are - Just look at them- Mom is so crazy beautiful in her size 6 wedding suit and Dad is so very handsome in his Irish Regimental Kilt and Jacket. In both photos they appear to be so happy - it would be just a matter of time before Dad would leave Canada on QE2 for England.

How time flies by....

Here Mom and Dad - this Croquembouche is for you.

Joanna

Bonne Destination Wedding: Il Cielo, Beverly Hills, California

2010-01-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

In the land of dreamers, visionaries and stars, in a place where anything can happen, romance owes a lot to Hollywood. No matter what the problems between couples the movies make us believe that everything works itself out in the end. Next door to Hollywood is chic Beverly Hills, an elegant destination for a romantic wedding. Go ahead, get swept away in the magic; suspend disbelief for a weekend and dream. Driving north about 50 miles on the 405 Freeway from Newport Beach is Beverly Hills. Sequestered on Burton Way is many a bride’s favorite - Il Cielo Restaurant, the most romantic venue in Beverly Hills and the setting for a most dreamy day. Il Cielo will sweep you off your feet and your head will spin to the delights of its careful attention to detail. Il Cielo is a cozy haven perfect for sharing an intimate and pleasurable meal with the person you love. The magnetic proprietor Pasquale Vericella has created a menu inspired by his Northern Italian roots with satisfying risottos, homemade pastas and savory meat dishes, all playing up farm fresh vegetables like eggplant, zucchini and tomatoes. The two outdoor dining patios are covered with ivy and flowering vines, peppered with little white lights that add twinkly, romantic warmth. Nearly every table is a good one, whether inside or out, a perfect spot for lovers. This place is truly a coveted spot for weddings and receptions. Stay at the Beverly Hills Four Seasons Hotel across the street and take advantage of the complimentary limousine service that will deliver you right to the ivy-covered front door of Il Cielo.

Dream Big Mes Amies!

Joanna

Bonne Reception: Wedding - Château de Breteuil, France

2010-01-11T22:38:00.000-08:00

How could I have missed this elegant wedding reception inspired by an 18th-century pastoral festival, the fête champêtre and set at the Château de Breteuil France.

A New York bride recently had her wedding vision come to life in France and in the pages of Veranda. The verdant styled reception table was set for 300 guests and was dressed with fuzzy baby almonds, pepper berries, and porcelain doves accompanied by birch-bark vessels and white and green florals.

Respect was paid to each detail, exemplified on the table cards with "oh so" apropos calligraphy as it appeared on the menu cards and the envelopes which were sealed with a wax impression from the bride’s family chevalière, or family crest; and were then banded with velvet ribbon, and embellished with soft a lamb's ear.

The green and white floral arrangements were styled with sweet peas, ferns, mushrooms, dainty grass racemes and then gathered in leaf-lined crystal compotes along with Paris Ladurée's macaroon as favors.

Music filled the seventeenth-century Château de Breteuil located in the countryside near Paris. Cocktails were served in the garden and the candlelit dinner was served on the terrace — at that single long table. The bride’s bountiful bouquet was full of mixed butterflies, feathers, orchids, ferns, mint, and peonies all tied up with antique ribbons. The bride's dress was couture and created by J. Mendel.

Be Inspired Mes Amies,

Joanna

Bonne Planning: Event & Wedding Planning News - Newport Beach

2010-01-06T06:00:00.000-08:00

What’s up for Joanna Hendrie Events and Fetes Blog for 2010? Our blog is on schedule and promises to consistently publish five days a week starting next week. Our focus, our point of view will continue to introduce to our readers no-nonsense and tried and true recommendations from a wedding and event planning professionals’ perspective. As well, we will reveal select glimpses’ into our weddings’ and event client’s world on party day. Lastly, one day a week, on Friday and for your visual impact and inspiration we will feature links from talented bloggers living around the world.

Here's to good planning! Joanna

Jour De Fête: From Newport Beach - Happy New Year and Bonne Année!

2010-01-01T09:43:00.000-08:00

Bonne Annee!!

Hoping all my friends and family enjoyed ringing in 2010. A new decade is ahead and I have so much to do and experience in this coming year. Upon reflection I am so very grateful and thankful for my excellent life. And so many of you are responsible for all my good fortune.

2009 was an awesome year for Joanna Hendrie Events & Fêtes and I can’t wait to see what happens in 2010.

I am sending love and many thank yous to all my clients, to my family (Maryanne, Darragh and Philip) and to my good friends – near and far, and a big thank you to our 2009 staffers, assistants and interns.

And lastly a thank you to the “Glitterati” as I like to call them (our amazing vendors) – you are a joy to work with.

Joanna Hendrie Events & Fêtes is wishing everyone a Happy 2010.

Bonne Mariage: Pasadena, CA New Years Eve Wedding Winter Wonderland

2009-12-31T13:54:00.000-08:00

This New Year's Eve Winter Wonderland Wedding took place a number of years ago but I look at the pictures almost every day. The wedding location was Pasadena, California. The wedding lighting was in shades of blue and purple and also complimented the ice presentations on the terrace. The perimeter of the tent was lined with white light strewn birch trees and giant white-flocked icicle trees flanking the corners.

Guests danced the night away on a clear plexiglas dance floor that covered the family pool. Lovely!

Happy New Year! Dream Big My Friends!

Joanna

Credits: Party Planner , Photographer

Happy Happy Christmas Everyone!

2009-12-23T19:25:00.000-08:00

Have a Rosy Pink Day!

Credits: Making It Lovely

Bonne Mariage: Bridal Couples' Real Weddings - Let me Spotlight Your Wedding.

2009-12-17T11:32:00.000-08:00

I adore spotlighting real weddings that embrace something unique – an idea, environment, venue, inspiring details, or the couples’ own unique spin. I absolutely love to spotlight Southern California Weddings – and I love great photographers. I would like to feature your wedding - wherever you are.

Please send me an e-mail: joannahendrie@gmail.com with your photographs with at least 650 pixels in width. Please include all the fine points and details of your Wedding or any thing you would want to see featured.

Thank you - I look forward to talking with you soon and linking your website to our blog. Merci! Joanna

Bonne Mariage: Vintage America

2009-12-16T06:12:00.000-08:00

Credits: Love Me Do Photography

I was bowled over when I saw this beautiful bride, with stunning red hair, striking face and a vintage gown reminiscent of the early 1950’s. The new and up to date cupcake display is a whimsical sight – red and pink, black polka dot trim - I call this wedding young and fun. The extremely luscious photos are brought to us by Nadine at Love Me Do Photography.

Cuisine: Christmas Peppermint Bark - Joyeaux Noêl!

2009-12-15T21:55:00.000-08:00

Here is a simple and easy little gift to make for all your friends and family. Fast and so Colorful, Peppermint Bark – I love the taste of Chocolate and Peppermint together - the richness of the Chocolate and the sweet, refreshing and crackly crushed pepperminty taste of the Candy Canes. They're easy and exhilarating to make and great fun smashing and bashing the candy canes into linen napkins. All the ingredients are organic and can be found at Whole Foods Market. This recipe is enough for one cookie sheet of Christmas Peppermint Bark and makes enough bark for six "Peppermint Bark Gift Boxes."

Christmas Peppermint Bark Recipe

• 24 ounces white chocolate chips
• 24 ounces milk chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 20 candy canes

1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil and spray with a vegetable cooking spray.

2. Pour all the milk chocolate chips onto the pan and spread them around. Bake for a couple of minutes until they look a bit melted. Then take the pan from the oven and spread the chocolate around with a spatula. Put the pan in the refrigerator to cool and harden for about 30 minutes.

3. Next open the candy canes, place them on a cookie sheet under a clean dishtowel and crush them with a hammer (as I said this part is fun). Sort the larger candy cane pieces from the candy cane dust (set aside).

4. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler (I used a small glass bowl over a pan of hot water) and stirring constantly. Add the peppermint extract and stir in the candy cane dust which will color your chocolate a light shade of pink. Let it cool a bit, and then pour it over the top of your milk chocolate layer.

5. Sprinkle this last layer with candy cane pieces and press them down gently so as to not stick.

6. Refrigerate pan for several hours, shake off the excess candy pieces, and then break the bark into chunks. Best to keep Peppermint Bark refrigerated.

Pack pieces of Peppermint Bark in Cellophane Bags and place bags in small box cushioned with tissue paper.

Close box up and tie with a Big Fat Red Satin Bow.

Merry Christmas!

Fleur & Decor: Roses in November

2009-11-27T07:25:00.000-08:00

In Canada, my birth country – it is very rare to see roses blooming in November. Look at what’s been going on in Toronto (where I lived and was raised as a toddler). Freshly blossomed roses are springing up in several parks and green spaces around the city. This picture was snapped yesterday - November 26th! - amid all the fallen leaves of the surrounding shrubs.

Credits: Andy Ritchie

Peace This Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T11:48:00.000-08:00

I am wishing all of you a beautiful, peaceful and loving Thanksgiving Day. I'm very grateful to have friends and family such as you.

As a gift please accept this lovely Princess Cake from Miettes Patisserie located in San Francisco, California.

Enjoy!

Wedding: Dusty Pink and Black New Years Wedding 2011

2009-11-24T08:42:00.000-08:00

Mood boards are a great help to a bride to be, graphic designers and film makers. The board is used to enable a bride to illustrate visually her style direction or the point of view, which she is pursuing. A wedding is a story and the mood board sets the stage for an imaginary setting for the wedding storyline. They serve as a visual tool to quickly inform every one of the overall 'feel' and “flow” that a bride/designer is trying to achieve. Creating mood boards in a digital form may be easier and quicker, but the tactile feel of physical objects (fabric, paper stock) often tend to have a higher impact on people because of the more complete palette of a sensational physical mood boards offer, in contrast with the black & white or color-prints of a digital mood board.

For a New Years Wedding 2011 – still a work in progress - the beginnings of a blush pink and black 5:00PM cocktail wedding in the bride’s parent’s Laguna Beach home over looking the Pacific Ocean.

Wedding Champagne and French Cheese Buffet - First Things First - The Tasting.

2009-11-14T13:10:00.000-08:00

We are happy to lend our wedding planning expertise to a most beautiful bride for 2010 Autumn Wedding. The bride and groom love great food and wine. So I set aside an entire evening last week and started the planning for the French Wine, Champagne and French Cheese tasting. Had lots of fun. All the while kept in mind the theme of the wedding “A Shimmering Champagne Wedding” . The bride has chosen a monochromatic color palette of Blush Gold. The bride loves French Champagne and wants the wine and Champagne paired with French Cheeses. French wine is similar to Champagne - it is processed the same way. However, the wine grapes are not grown in the Champagne region.

As a work in progress – The Shimmering Champagne Wedding Tasting Menu is taking shape.

Au Votre Sante!

A Vineyard Tasting

• Cabernet Sauvignon from Bordeaux
• Chardonnay from Burgundy
• Pinot Noir from Burgundy
• Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley

A First-Class Tasting

• Bordeaux Grand Cru Classe
• Burgundy Grand Cru and 1er Cru
• Chateauneuf du Pape
• Champagne Grand Cru or Millesime

A Champagne Tasting

• Champagne Blanc de Blanc
• Champagne Rose
• Champagne Millesime

A Select Cheese Pairing

French Muenster (considered the Best and called Munster) is a farmhouse and cow’s milk cheese. Authentic Munster cheese is made only from the milk of cows that graze in a designated area in the Vosges Mountains in the east of France. It is a soft white cheese with a reddish-orange washed rind and is noted for its strong smell and pronounced taste

Double Crème French “La Brie” is a soft cows' cheese named after Brie, the French province in which it originated.

Epoisse a cheese from Burgundy, France. Epoisse is firm, moist and grainy with a fresh taste.

Come back often - next up the buffet layout and design.

Wedding: Happy Halloween Wedding - Skibo or Malibu?

2009-10-30T09:36:00.000-07:00

Planning a Halloween Wedding. Take inspiration from Wedding Wire’s Opulent Mood Board. If not this weekend – why not plan next year's wedding in October - now the new June. Start early and start the Holiday Season 2010 off with your wedding either choreographed here at a luxe mansion on a hill in Malibu or Santa Barbara. - or, and this is my fantasy get going and dream up the ultimate Scottish Destination Wedding at Skibo Castle. The dress – think rich, ornate, lots of layers, and - add a soft orange tartan cashmere wrap with lots of jewelry.

Credits:

Mood Board: Wedding Wire

Skibo Castle: Scotavia

Musique: Michael Bublé for Your Wedding Reception

2009-10-27T18:18:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Michael Buble http://www.michaelbuble.com/ is the only performer who can can touch audiences aged 8 through 80? That’s right – even the little ones know who he is. Michael's silky, lush voice and music is a must have at any Wedding Reception - his music is perfect for everyone's "dance moves". He has it all - handsome good looks, nostalgic music for grandparents (Stardust), oldies for Moms and Dads, and for Friends and Family.

He'll be performing the week of November 1 (need to confirm the date) at Morongo Casino Resort Spa in Cabazon, CA in a swanky concert. I adore Michael – his music will make you wilt and swoon - believe me there is no one - well, perhaps the Beetles - who can touch your heart, your guest's heart on your day - a day made for memories and ceremony. Michael may be booked but please rush out and get his new CD "Crazy Love" (# 1 on Billboard) and listen to what I am talking about. Just a thought - Perhaps a "Michael Buble Looping Session" can be created - on your day especially for you and your guy! Just a thought!

Destination and Holiday Weddings' Save The Date Cards - Have You Sent Yours?

2009-10-06T15:25:00.000-07:00

Remember to send out today your Save-The-Date Cards for your destination or holiday wedding. These notes should be sent out one year in advance of your wedding. As these to-do items come up - just keep adding them to your "Ongoing To-Do List. Try and keep the list in one place- a small binder moleskinus.com - and in your purse at all times.

Happy Autumn Holiday!

2009-10-02T21:00:00.000-07:00

Summer Anniversay High Tea

2009-09-17T11:57:00.000-07:00

Nothing could stop a Wedding Anniversary High Tea – not even105 degrees in Orange County this past week. Joanna Hendrie Events and Fêtes set the stage for an iconic High Tea complete with Silver Samovar, linens and tea cups, dessert plates, tea pots and porcelain from Rent A Tea Party. The 75 guests supped on tea sandwiches – a smoked salmon and dill, a sundried tomato and crème fraiche, a sweet onion and mascarpone cheese on raisin brioche and a Madeira and red current chicken. Also, high tea is not complete without the the savories: Mini chive biscuits and country ham, cherry bread and hazelnut port butter, fig chicken pate and cornichons on baguette, and mini croque monsieur. Sweet petite cookies – macaroons, blueberry shortbread, French crème brownies, and bite size lemon squares shared each of the guest tables with Joanna’s trademark organic farm fresh strawberries and Chantilly Crème – the strawberries crowned dessert plates and trays and were scattered among two tiered serveware of savories, sweets and sandwiches. (Thank You Vintage Tea Leaf http://vintagetealeaf.com/) - Tea for the day was a green tea called Casablanca and an Oolong from Ceylon called Peaches & Cream served with fresh apricot scones.

The anniversary gateau was a two tiered chocolate ganache cake with chocolate fudge filling, piping and served with a sparking wine from the South of France.

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Wedding Etiquette 101 – Handwritten Thank You Notes

2009-09-14T20:47:00.000-07:00

Writing hundreds of thank you notes takes time. But it is a very important activity. Your guests spent a great deal of time and money searching out the perfect gift. You in return must express your gratitude and the sooner the better.

Here are some tips – to get you started:

Get organized
Start immediately
Write one note at a time
Divide the job up
Set goals – five to eight cards a day
Create a space
– clean off a table in the den or set up a portion of your home office desk or dining table as staging area for note writing
Use dead time
- after dinner or early morning
Delay gratification
– do not use the wedding gift until after you’ve written and mailed the note
Divide list in to categories: family, his and hers, mutual friends
Write difficult notes first

Then – I like to reward myself after a meeting a goal – for me finishing a job is reward enough! Pick your strategy - whatever works. Whatever you crave - have at it!

Christian Lacroix Forever...

2009-09-10T19:07:00.000-07:00

My favorite designer - Christian Lacroix - has always been one of the Paris season’s most anticipated shows on the Paris calendar.

Does anyone know if this is his last show? His new collection featured 24 pieces and are said to be dramatic, chic and elegant.

Now, take a look at pieces from his Wedding Collection - Rosa Clara for 2010 courtesy of http://fashionbride.wordpress.com.

Lacroix’s bride looks like a doll - sweet, modern and with the look of a silver screen dream - lots of muslin, organza, crepeline, lace and embroidery, fine stones and mother-of-pearl pailletes.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Rent A Tea Party

2009-09-05T18:46:00.000-07:00

My new pet rental firm in Orange County and Los Angeles – a service I now can’t live without – is Tricia Van Doren’s Rent- A -Tea Party. In addition to being extremely nice Tricia is accommodating, friendly and particularly responsive when working within deadlines. She has a first-class collection of Tea Cups and Saucers, Tea Pots and magnificent accoutrements you can’t wait to lay your eyes on – She has it all for your next tea party. Her tea pots are beautiful, big and colorful, with a mix and max attitude of flowers, vines, gold and pastels. Once grouped together these pieces look heavenly on a perfectly set tea table. From a “Tea for Two or for a party of 75 or more (Thanks Tricia - for everything I needed for last weekend’s High Tea), she has what you’re looking for. If she doesn’t have the piece you need I am confident she will find it.

I can’t wait to work with Rent a Tea Party again. Please stroll on over to Tricia’s website at http://www.rentateaparty.com, and give her a call and rent a tea party and create your own tea celebration this month

Picture Perfect Paris Honeymoon.

2009-08-22T21:36:00.000-07:00

Cozy picnics in the park. A visit to Paris is never complete without - a gaze upon the Eiffel Tower, and a trip to the market for a lunch picnic in the park or along the Seine. A great little pedestrian market street not terribly overrun with tourists is Rue Cler, just to the southeast of the Eiffel Tower at the Ecole Militaire metro stop. Fruit vendors, cheesemongers, bakeries and boulangeries sell sandwiches, baguettes, quiches, tarts, and of course, macarons, for the perfect afternoon Parisian picnic in the park. Get the royal treatment. A truly classy place to stay during your honeymoon, the Victoria Palace Hotel (6 Rue Blaise Desgoffe) can't be beat for luxury, comfort, and hospitality. Honoured as a Great Hotel of the World, its classically upholstered walls and tapestries bring you back to the 15th century France of Marie Antoinette. Feel like royalty with the hotel's impeccable attention to detail along with extras like bath salts, bathrobes, and dark chocolates on pillows at turndown. Best boutique hotel in Paris. For more modern or artsy romantics, Hotel des Academies et des Arts (15 Rue de la Grande Chaumiere) offers ultra-stylish rooms and luxury all at once. One of the best boutique hotels in Paris, Hotel des Academies et des Arts is located in a small Parisian neighbourhood littered with artists and studios. As if the unique artistic flair of this boutique wasn't enough, Pierre Herme macarons are offered to each guest upon arrival - absolute perfection. Fall in love with the streets of Paris. With both hotels conveniently located in the heart 6th Arrondissement, it makes for perfectly beautiful afternoons strolling through Jardin du Luxembourg and getting lost in picturesque Parisian streets. Hop the Metro for a few stops at a time to yourselves at the foot of Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and Champs-Elysees. Perfect romantic dinners in Paris. Finally, when it comes to a perfect romantic dinner, there's no better world destination than Paris. For something classically-French and exquisitely prepared, visit Pierre Gagnaire's for the perfect French fine dining experience. If you want the best in modern French dishes, try Atelier de Joel Robuchon where one of the best items on the menu is mashed potatoes. Then again, for top-quality traditional French fare like steak frites, escargot baked in garlic, and moules at low-mid range prices, try La Rotonde - conveniently just steps away from Hotel des Academies et des Arts.

Credits: LeBeast

Trends - Bridal Bows and Color for 2010

2009-07-25T07:19:00.001-07:00

I like to follow Bridal trends and where do they always start? - in Europe - -Paris! French fantasy is back and here is just a wee bit of the behind the scenes at the Paris Couture shows this week. Paris Haute Couture Week started at the beginning of July. Among its recession-defying flights of fancy were beautiful dresses, ravishing models, breathtaking locations, diamond presentations, dreamy hats, bejeweled clients and riotous parties ( I was not invited). It was a return to real glamour and rich handcrafts.
It was all about the bow, big and bold on the front of evening gowns; little ones on the heels of candy-colored shoes; and on wrist-to-elbow rhinestone bracelets. It was pure fashion fantasy

Color is big for 2010. Christian Dior was showing his collection of bright colors mixed with shifting chiffon and layered lace, in saucy Fifties corsetry. Like I said earlier the bows - a recurring trend - were on models' heads as hats. Chanel's jewellery salon is showing off expensive bows made of the whitest and purest diamonds in town. And Cartier is displaying a more colorful collection that included emeralds, rubies and pearls in its signature ethnic designs. The 2010 bride’s silhouette is sleek and if one marries in the winter of 2009 she can choose from impeccable tweed day suits to richly embroidered wedding dresses.

Beautiful Shoes for an Elegant Affaire

2009-07-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

Bonjour Mes Amies!

Bienvenue à Joanna Hendrie Events & Fêtes a Newport Beach based event planning company for weddings and all social occasions for brides all over the country.

We have "idées fraîches" and an eye for design and we can’t wait to work with you and make all your dreams come true.

Just look at our Event Service Collection!

Le “Á La Carte” Menu – Need just a little bit of help? We have an “a la carte menu” just for you.

Le “Setup” Menu – You have done everything – trust us with the details. We will make sure your vision and details are carried out.

Le “Day of Coordination” Menu – We are there the entire day providing wedding assistance for everything.

Les “Essentials” Menu – Need assistance with vendors, inspiration and design. We will work with you on the overall design of your event – We provide inspiration and ideas and then pull it all together on your wedding day.

Le “Grande Plan” Menu – Please No Stress – We do everything to assist you in giving you a stunning soiree without the stress of planning it. We love to handle the details.

Voici! We will cater your event too!

At Joanna Hendrie Joie De Vivre Catering http://joannahendrie.com/ we specialize in elite dining experiences in Orange County and Southern California. Founded in 2001 to articulate our creative culinary expression – we create elegant French and Cosmopolitan food and design for private parties, custom weddings and corporate events throughout Southern California.

We individually design each menu for every occasion. We then seek out the highest quality local purveyor and create memorable culinary experiences in the comfort of your home, venue, or destination of choice. No soiree is too large or too small.

Just look at some of our Menus:

"Foods & Fêtes” Full Service Catering Menu

Private
BeBe Showers
Bonne Anniversaire Parties
Canapé Delivery
Children's Birthday Parties
Christenings
Cocktail Parties
Cooking Workshops
Dinner Parties
Fondue Soirees
Kitchen Teas
Mariage
Life’s Ceremonies
French Tea Salon

Corporate
Canapé Delivery
French Tea Salon
Corporate Luncheons
Dinner Parties
Fondue Soirées
Product Launches
Staff Appreciation

"Joanna's Delivery Menus"
French Cocktail Hour – “L’Apéritif a la Francaise”
Les Bistro Party
French Tea Salon
French Lunch Box Menu “Les Tartines”

We look forward to talking with you soon!

A Bientot!

Monique Lhuillier Sample Sale

2009-07-18T13:33:00.000-07:00

Monique Lhuillier is having a Sunday Bridal Sale In Los Angeles. Beautiful Brides - what are you doing tommorow Sunday. It's a lucky day for those having late summer or fall weddings. Monique Lhuillier http://moniquelhuillier.com is taking 40% to 90% off wedding dress samples and ready-to-wear including evening and cocktail dresses at this downtown sale. Brides-to-be can find deals such as a $3,000 full-lace gown (retail regular price $6,300) and a $2,000 satin dress ($4,620). Evening and cocktail frocks are priced from $200 to $3,000. All sales are final. No appointments or alterations provided. Monique's address is 1201 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (323) 655-1088. 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Merci Los Angeles Times!

Sous Le Soleil de la Californie

2009-07-10T18:11:00.000-07:00

As the heat of our Southern California summer approaches, its most befitting a bride and her attendants to keep their cool - best done while clasping one of Pamela’s Parasols http://www.pamelasparasols.com – romantic to look at and functional in shape, Pamela's Parasols are available in an array of shades to make it very easy to get a perfect match to your wedding colors. Pamela will match to Alfred Angelo and David's Bridal colors. Tres Belle!

Talented Pastry Chefs

2009-07-06T13:12:00.000-07:00

Talented Pastry Chefs - I'm in need of a 50th Golden Wedding Anniversary Tiered Cake. Please contact me - Event Date August 29, 2009. Merci!

Bonne Wedding Ring Pillow

2009-06-29T21:08:00.000-07:00

Cherie, it was the Egyptians who chronicled the story that the vein of love (vena amoris) on the left ring finger leads straight to the heart. With this in mind, check out amazing artist Anna Whitford’s site http://annawhitford.com/ and her handmade wedding ring pillows. Her pillows hold the wedding ring in place as it is carried down the aisle to the wedding alter by the ring bearer. Just take a look! Love the purple and pistachio.

Bonne Bridal Trousseau

2009-06-17T20:38:00.000-07:00

I recall a conversation I was having with my friend shortly before her wedding in New York. Her wedding was to be small with a quiet dinner with friends at one of Mario Batali's restaurants - I think Del Posto. My friend mentioned that it was time for “out with the old and in with the new” – well perhaps not those exact words - she went on to say she had rid herself of sheets, towels and clothes and was purchasing an entirely new wardrobe and linens for her home. Our conversation made me think of the Bridal Trousseau or Hope chest – a tradition I rarely hear of now – however an important tradition that starts at birth. The French tell the story of the French bride and the trousseau. The bride brings to the marriage all that was needed for her home - the tableware, linens, her clothing, candlesticks, and so on. Each baby girl was provided a "bridal trousseau". Relatives and friends of the family would gift the child with items she would need for her marriage. As she grew she would work on items to go in the chest, embroidery or knitting for example. Over time she would acquire quite a collection - napkins, towels, tablecloths, curtains. By the time she was married she would be fully prepared to set up her own home.

Now the roles are less rigid. Today each half of the couple still brings into the new household a collection of their personal items. This includes their clothing, their personal effects and other items. It’s not too late for you to create your Bridal Trousseau! This can be a simple storage box, or an armoire. The key with a trousseau is that it is added to slowly, one item at a time. At each birthday, holiday - make a list of things you'd like to add to your trousseau. Give the list to family and friends. Slowly you accumulate items you really adore.

Take a look at this book "France -French Romance - Weddings and Courtships" by Lisa Shea - Charming.

French Wedding Dress Inspiration

2009-06-09T13:44:00.000-07:00

I saw this bridal dress and was stunned - so beautiful - exquisite hand-made limited one-piece edition blush pink gown made of tulle, organza and silk. Only the very best for "La Mariée". Be inspired by Bordeaux, France courtier http://www.weddingdress-lolitac.com/ .

Tres Jolie!

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Little Bit About Me

2009-05-07T16:07:00.000-07:00

Hello I am Joanna, I'm the founder, owner and planner at Joanna Hendrie Events & Fêtes the company I founded after planning events in the corporate world as well as catering the weddings, bridal showers and receptions for friends. I started my own events company to serve brides & grooms as well as the social and charity community. With a marketing and advertising background, I have combined years of corporate communications experience with design to create the fantasy driven Joanna Hendrie Events and Fêtes. We cater to the bride on the day of and all the days leading up to the ceremony she has dreamed of forever. Our brides want stunning, elegant and seamless events while at the same time not wanting to think of anything else other than the magical wedding day. What started out for me as a wedding coordination division of my catering company Joanna Hendrie Joie De Vivre & Cie http://joannahendrie.com - has grown into an independent full-service event planning and design agency.

Talented Photographers

2009-04-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

Bonjour! Gifted and talented photographers – You know who you are - I would love to showcase your amazing wedding photos on my official blog.
We are looking for breathtaking wedding, wedding party and event photography. It would be my honor to credit you with each and every piece and add a link to your website. We would like to see tables fully set, wedding favors, centerpieces, unique guest books, fleur and décor details, and place cartes - all the items a wedding planner would organize and set up. I would like to know all about you as I am always in need of great phorgraphers. Merci!

Joanna Hendrie Events & Fêtes - Links We Love

2009-04-25T01:56:00.000-07:00

Mes Amies! We would love to hear from you. Link to our new blog. We in turn will link back to your blog. Drop an email to Joanna@joannahendrie.com. We will add you to our blog Joanna Hendrie Events & Fetes. Merci!

Le Venue - Villa Del Sol 'd Oro - House of the Golden Sun, Alverno Heights Academy

2009-04-25T01:30:00.000-07:00

For a venue in Los Angeles County and in the Pasadena area – consider my beautiful high school alma mater Alverno Heights Academy http://www.alverno-hs.org/about_villa.asp when planning your wedding.

The Alverno Villa is a duplicate of the Villa Collazzi located on the outskirts of Florence Italy. Villa Collazzi has been occupied for several centuries by the Bombicci ― Fomi family, and legend has it that the Villa is the only one ever designed by the immortal Michelangelo. The Villa del Sol d’Oro is one―quarter scale to the original.

Villa del Sol d’Oro is nestled at the foot of the beautiful San Gabriel Mountains in picturesque Sierra Madre, the Villa was built in the Italian Renaissance Style in 1922 by the famous Pasadena architect Wallace Neff and was completed by 1928. The estate was built by Dr. Jarvis Barlow for his wife, who had visited and wanted a house just like the Villa Collazzi. This design was a sweeping departure from the Mediterranean style that that Neff perfected in his other homes.

Originally built on thirteen acres of trees and flowers overlooking the entire San Gabriel Valley, the Villa had five master bedrooms, four bathrooms, and ample help quarters, one of the first electric elevators in the area, porches on three sides, and spacious patios. On the grounds were garages, stables, caretaker’s home, swimming pool, bath house, and tennis courts.

The building is comprised of two stories and a tower. It is said that the walls are made of two rows of hollow tile to keep the building cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The lower story houses the reception rooms, dining room, drawing room, and library. The upper floor includes the living quarters and a spacious ballroom. The tower was built to obtain a better view of the valley.

Dr. Barlow himself supervised the planting of the trees which included: orchids, tulip, Japanese Magnolia, strawberry tree, flaming eucalyptus, monkey tree, camphor, sapoitas, English Yew, coral, and carob. To frame the southern façade, a sunken garden was added, lined on either side by Italian cypress.

Please contact at http://www.alverno-hs.org/ all the details.

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French Tea Bridal Shower

2009-04-14T08:24:00.001-07:00

A simple French Tea is a lovely way to send your bride off to her new life with him.

French tea from Hediard or Marige Frere, a simple fresh fruit tart, petite tea sandwiches - exotic crab and dill, tomato, montrachet and basil and walnut, cherry are perfect choices for spring summer shower. For your sweets - Passion fruit drop scones and crème anglais along with petites fours secs. I like to prepare a fresh fruit punch – prepared the day before and chilled - it looks beautiful and makes a terrific focal point for your guests. Greet your guests, as some have driven miles with trays of sparkling water and sliced fruit. Your guests will love you for it.