Aroos Magazine (Fall 2011)

Aroos Letter fromFeature the Publisher Hello friends, Here you have the 19th issue of Aroos Magazine, for Fall 2011.

We have had another busy summer, with lots of lovely weddings and other events. From the Ritz Carlton in Dana Point to the Hilton Columbus in Ohio, you will see all of the wedding reports in this issue and the next upcoming issues.

Our next issue is very special to us! Magazine number 20 will feature special pictures, reports and interviews, and funny and good memories from our very beginnings to today.

We also are excited for the upcoming Aroos Wedding Show at the Hyatt Regency Irvine on January 15, 2012. This time our show will be totally different. The quality of the vendors, the presentation and the management are totally changed and upgraded.

But the most important thing we have to share is that Aroos Magazine lost one of our good friends and a critical part of our team this summer to cancer. Mr. Vahik Abkarian was the only person who delivered our magazine, as well as lots of other magazines and newspapers, in Glendale and the Valley area, West LA and Orange County, every single day from 3 a.m. to 6 p.m.

He was an honest and kind gentleman; a family guy. He was a hard worker, but always had a smile. He’ll always be in my heart, and I love and miss him deeply.

God bless you, Navid Soheilian Publisher

Publisher: Navid Soheilian • Navid@AroosMagazine.com Editor and Graphic Designer: Candice Yacono Printed by Metro Digital • Metro-Digital.com AROOS MAGAZINE • P.O. Box 3453 Mission Viejo, CA 92690 310.753.9622 • Info@AroosMagazine.com www.aroosmagazine.com • Circulation: 10,000 All rights reserved by AROOS. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission. The articles and advertisements appearing in AROOS Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinion of AROOS, the editors, or other columnists. All topics and subjects discussed, including any legal or medical articles, are not for the purpose of answering specific legal or other problems. Readers are strongly advised to independently research all issues and/or seek professional advice. Acceptance of advertising by AROOS Magazine does not constitute endorsement of products or services advertised. The content of ads is not confirmed by AROOS, and each advertiser is responsible for the content of their ad; no representations are made by AROOS. AROOS reserves the right to refuse any advertising and articles. AROOS Magazine is a promotional distribution, and its sale and unauthorized use are prohibited under any circumstances.

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Letter fromFeature the Editor Aroos Dear readers, Happy autumn! The skies have been clear and bright, and the weather has been ideal — don’t tell anyone, but this is my favorite time of year to get married. (I may be biased; I am celebrating my sixth wedding anniversary this November.)

Be sure to mark your calendars for the absolutely amazing Aroos Wedding Show that we have coming up on January 15, 2012. The format has been totally revamped; you’ll feel as though you are actually walking into a luxe celebrity wedding reception! (I’m technically supposed to keep all the details to myself, but I can’t help sharing a little.)

Soon to follow on the show’s heels will be the 20th issue of Aroos Magazine, which will be a commemorative issue.

We’re lining up exclusive interviews with the country’s top wedding vendors, from venues to coordinators to designers!

On a more sober note, as you may have read in Navid’s letter, we also are mourning the loss of a man whose behind-thescenes contributions to our magazine’s success have been more significant than perhaps anyone can truly understand.

Vahik Abkarian was like the glue that held us together; by faithfully getting up early each morning to make sure Aroos was freshly stocked on newsstands throughout the Southland, he helped make us a household name, and he will be as dearly missed for his boundless contributions as for his warm personality.

All the best, Candice Yacono Editor 6i

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CONTENTS Aroos Feature

11 29 57 22

04 11

Publisher’s Letter News

17

Jet-Setting Wedding Style

22

Color Story

29

A ‘Posch’ New Restaurant

34

Wedding Report

42

Ask the Expert: Luxe Linens 101

45

Mirror, Mirror, off the Wall

All the latest news about Aroos and weddings.

The Hilton LAX is a chic, neutral venue for all events.

We celebrate fall with shades of orange and green.

Orange County has a fabulous new dining option.

Foruzan Bigdeli & Amir Zargar.

Aroos Expert Wendy Dahl shows how to make linens pop.

An engaged local woman turns away from mirrors for a year.

48 I Asked For a Cup of Coffee ...

How to prevent sexual harassment.

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Wedding Report

57

‘May These Nuptials Be Blessed’

62

Wedding Report

66

A Wedding Planning Timeline

17

70

An Unforgettable Evening

75

75

Grin and Bare It

78 80

Directory: Orange County and San Diego Directory: Los Angeles

45 29

42

Tala Taghvay & Pendar Fazeli.

The poetical stylings of Rumi.

Tiffanie Siyavong & Chester Carson.

Save and use this handy timeline for all your planning needs.

For a reception to remember, call DJ Payman.

Crush Photo Studios will make you into a model.

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Feature AroosAroosNews

Pelican Hill Rises to the Top This Year

The Resort at Pelican Hill, one of Aroos’ favorite wedding locations, has been named the “#1 Resort in the United States” in Condé Nast Traveler magazine’s 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards.

The Newport Beach resort skyrocketed to the top of the list, despite only being open for less than three years at the time of publication.

The luxury magazine’s readers gave it a score of 96.3 in the 24th year of the awards.

“We are deeply honored to be recognized by our guests and the distinguished readers of Condé Nast Traveler as one of the world’s finest Resort destinations, in

less than three short years since opening Pelican Hill,” said Ralph Grippo, President of Irvine Company Resort Properties.

NBC News legend Tom Brokaw presented the award during the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards event at the Edison Ballroom in Manhattan on Oct. 10.

Brokaw also shared some of his memories and experiences at the Resort, which he has visited with his family.

“From The Spa, Golf Club and Resort restaurant professionals, to our hospitality, culinary and special events staff, the entire Pelican Hill team is humbled by this remarkable accolade,” said Giuseppe Lama, Managing Director of Pelican Hill.

“With both gracious appreciation and resounding pride, we will continue to passionately pursue our goals of providing unparalleled guest experiences at our ‘Italian Seaside Village’ along the coast of Newport Beach.”

The Readers’ Choice Awards honor the world’s best cities, islands, cruise lines, airlines, hotels and resorts. Nearly 30,000 readers voted for their favorites out of nearly 11,000 choices.

To view the complete results of the survey, read the November issue of Condé Nast Traveler.

For more information on the Resort at Pelican Hill, visit pelicanhill.com.

Make Your event an Experience Looking for a unique option for this year’s holday event, or perhaps your own engagement party, shower or rehearsal dinner?

The Resort at Pelican Hill offers a standout lineup of creative experiences at their stunning Tuscan-inspired Newport Beach location.

Consider a chef-led cooking class for your small group in a private ocean-view villa as a unique bridal shower, or a group golf tour-

nament for the groomsmen, with academy lessons.

A bridesmaids’ get-together can be transformed into a spa soiree, high tea, wellness retreat or outdoor yoga session.

For a unique take on an otherwise stale rehearsal dinner, try a professionally-led wine tasting and cheese seminar.

Looking for something even more luxe?

Consider the popular option of an outdoor

Italian festival on the resort’s bucolic grounds, with cooking demos, art exhibits, strolling musicians and traditional crafts.

Or take your cabana party over-the-top with the Acqua Lounge, featuring Cirquestyle in-pool performers.

The resort is, of course, a perfect venue for wedding ceremonies and receptions, but it offers a number of offsite catering options as well.

News pieces written by Candice Yacono. Image courtesy the Resort at Pelican Hill.

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Aroos News

Aroos Feature These Recycled Rings are Golden Jewelry retailer greenKarat announced recently that it has received third-party certification of recycled content. This is the first-ever third-party certification of a jewelry retailer. Eco-friendly wedding and engagement rings have grown in popularity as activist organizations such as Oxfam’s No Dirty Gold educate regarding the environmental impact of gold mining. In an effort to appeal to eco-conscious couples, the jewelry industry has seen a steep increase in ‘green’ claims; marketing with terms such as ‘recycled’ without providing independent verification of recycled content.

“The jewelry industry is starting a slow turn toward environmental responsibility,” said Matthew White, president of greenKarat. “We are proud to be in the lead on that effort.”

The greenKarat third-party certification not only provides independent verification of overall recycled content, but also discloses the postconsumer portion of that content. greenKarat’s certification confirms that the gold used is 100% postconsumer recycled.

For more information, visit www.greenKarat.com.

Helpful Tips to Restore Damaged Summer Hair As you wrap up summer activities and get in gear for fall, excited to stock up on fall clothes and makeup that complement your end-of-summer golden glow, you need fabulous hair to top it off.

Windy beach weather and harmful rays have your hair in its worst shape?

Say bye to damaged hair and split ends with expert tips from professional hair stylist Barbara Abbasi.

Simple Solutions Sometimes the answer to a complicated question is simpler than you think. You can easily rid your locks of split ends and damage with a simple trim or cut.

The best cut to make hair appear thicker and healthier is a cut with layers that are medium to medium-short in length.

Hair that is below your shoulders is great to avoid summer frizz, but can weigh down your hair, making it look less voluminous in the fall.

Top it off with a deep conditioning treatment for shine and to restore your hair’s healthy glow.

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Give Your Hair a Break Don’t overheat, over-style and overdo your ‘do. Take a break from your regular morning maintenance routine. After showering, section your hair into four parts. Twist the bottom strands so that your hair is twisted from top to bottom and roll into a bun and clip or tie it. Repeat for each section and let your hair air dry. Once dry, let your locks loose for beautiful natural looking waves.

To avoid dry and drab hair, consider trying natural hair care products. Stay away from chemicals, limit dying and over-drying your hair and don’t use hairstyling tools that damage hair.

Using the Right Tools It’s all in the tools. Using the right tool is key to restoring and maintaining healthy hair. Opt for products that don’t dry and fry your hair. Want straight locks? My recommendation is the Ferrum Professional Styler.

Ferrum straightens while retaining volume, moisture and shine. What makes Ferrum different? One part non-heated padded fabric element and one part tourmaline coated ceramic plate. The real distinction of this tool is the fabric padded side, a combination of lightweight, anti-static polymers that allows the hair to “breathe” while straightening.

Get Professional Help Summer sun could turn your lovely dyed hair into a complete dry and discolored disaster. Before turning to DIY hair color kits, seek professional help! Your first end-of-summer color application should likely be completed by a professional to avoid further damaging your precious locks.

Courtesy Barbara Abbasi, Professional Hair Stylist (abhairla.com) and Founder of the Ferrum Professional Styler (ferrumiron.com).

News pieces written by Candice Yacono; images courtesy their respective companies.

Feature AroosAroosNews

Blooming Bridal Bouquet Trends for This Wedding Season Looking for something unique for your bouquet? Consider the following suggestions from wedding expert Linda Williams, Vice President Marketing, Wedding Services at 1-800-Registry — the first full-service wedding advisory for brides and grooms for weddings and honeymoons.

• One Large Bloom – This season, brides are walking down the aisle with bouquets that make a dramatic and elegant statement. By using only one large bloom, such as peonies or dinner plate dahlias, and minimal green, brides succeed as well as being cost effective, since there’s minimal floral.

• One Flower En Masse – This season, as opposed to mixing and matching different floral pieces for bouquets, brides are using one flower grouped together. For example, a bouquet solely of pink roses is both gorgeous as well as being a great statement piece alongside a simple, white gown. In this case, brides are taking the “simple is more” approach.

• Personalized Bouquets – This season, brides are personalizing their bouquets with additional items. Jewelry, brooches, monogrammed ribbons, rosaries, and pictures of a loved one, etc. add an extra special and personal touch, and are very much on the rise this season.

For more information on the innovative 1-800-Registry service, stop by 1800registry.com.

Dominican Republic Sparkles in 2011 Dominican Republic is a favorite getaway for those seeking exciting culture, delicious gastronomy, pulse-pounding merengue, effervescent nightlife and the world’s top resorts. Every year, influential international media and tourism influencers honor this most popular and second largest Caribbean country with accolades.

From industry-leading guest service and luxurious golf, to pristine coastlines and dream wedding destinations, Dominican Republic continues to top travelers’ lists. Highlights: Tortuga Bay Hotel, the Oscar de la Renta-designed hotel in the Puntacana Resort & Club complex, was honored with the AAA Five Diamond Award for 2011.

TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice 2011 honored Iberostar Grand Hotel Bavaro as the 9th best all-inclusive resort in the world and as the best hotel in Punta Cana.

Destination Weddings and Honeymoon magazine named Dominican Republic as one of the 20 “Best Honeymoon Destinations 2011.”

TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice 2011 ranked Zoetry Agua Punta Cana as the 2nd best hotel for relaxation in the Caribbean and Mexico, as well as the 8th most romantic resort in the region.

Arthur Frommer listed Puerto Plata, Punta Cana and Samana as the frontrunners on his list of 2011 “Top 15 Best Bargain Vacations” in The Toronto Star.

For more information, visit godominicanrepublic.com.

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All photography in this article provided by the Hilton LAX.

Jet-Setting Wedding Style Seeking an elegant backdrop for a one-of-a-kind affair in a world-class locale? Read on as Aroos checks in with Gloria Guillen, Senior Catering Sales Manager at the Hilton LAX. Aroos Magazine: What’s new in weddings at the Hilton LAX over the past year?

Gloria Guillen: At the end of July we replaced out carpet with a brand new carpet with new colors and design. It still is neutral enough where any color works well with our Ballroom.

AM: How has the hotel-wide renovation process been going?

GG: Our renovation has not only been in our Grand Ballroom, but also in our guest rooms. Starting in July 2011, we are completely renovating our sleeping rooms. Each will have a brand new 42”

flat screen TV, new carpeting, stylish new furniture and new wall furnishings as well.

In our Junior Ballroom, we also put in brand new chairs with a gold trim and chocolate brown for more of a warm feeling to the ballroom.

AM: What are your current meeting space capacities/sizes/options for wedding ceremonies and receptions?

GG: We have two junior ballrooms that can accommodate weddings of anywhere from 50 to 175 guests. These are located on the second floor. For bigger weddings we have the International Ballroom that Fall 2011 •

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Aroos Feature can accommodate anywhere from 300 to 600 guests. This ballroom is accompanied by our Pacific Ballroom, which is perfect for a cocktail reception to start off the night.

For our Ceremonies, we have indoor and outdoor capabilities. Both can sit 200 to 400 guests.

AM: What is the overall “mood” or look of your venue?

GG: When your guests enter our beautiful warm and elegant lobby, they will be excited to see what your actual wedding venue will be.

From the warm neutral colors to the gorgeous chandeliers, your wedding day will be an enchanted one.

AM: What inclusions come with your wedding package (services, etc.)?

GG: We offer two types of packages: “In House” and “Outside Catering.” Outside catering is for meals the hotel cannot offer — for example, Kosher or Glatt Kosher meals.

Both packages include service staff, tables, chairs, linen and flatware. The difference between the two is that with our in house packages the hotel can offer a beautiful three-course dinner for you and your guests, and our outside catering packages include five hours of a hosted (open) bar with our professional bartenders.

AM: How do you stand out from the competition?

GG: Besides our beautiful chandeliers, brand new carpet and great service staff, I believe that I definitely stand out from the competition.

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Like I always say to my clients, something that is not on the contract but is included is my service and availability to you.

I make sure that I am here for all my events, from the beginning portion of the day (setting up the ballroom) until after dinner, and I feel that your event is ready to just dance the night away.

My warm and honest personality definitely makes my clients comfortable with me, and I let them know that honesty is key, and here at the Hilton I make sure my clients get a night they will not forget!

AM: Do you have signature dishes or beverages, or other notable offerings?

GG: We have a set Wedding Menu that is a la carte, that is able to accommodate any budget.

If there is something that our menus do not offer, we would be more than happy to create a special customized menu for you and your guests.

AM: What is your policy with working with outside caterers, particularly Persian caterers? Which are on your “short list” at the moment?

GG: We do allow outside catering to provide the meals for our weddings. If the caterer is Glatt Kosher and approved and works with the RCC, they are permitted to use our RCC Glatt Kosher Kitchen located here at the hotel. Many times we find this alleviates much stress for your caterer, which already has so much to do that day.

We have worked with many caterers over the past year; however, this year I have had the honor to work with Simon Catering, Sharon Catering, Royal Catering, Beverly Catering, and Sason Catering. These of course are just a few of the great caterers out there.

AM: Do you have any special promotions right now?

GG: Yes, at the moment, if you book for 2012 during 2011, we will honor 2011 pricing.

AM: Do you have any future plans you would like to share? (renovations, etc.)

GG: As of right now, we are in the midst of planning a complete remodel for our Grand Ballroom. This of course will not happen until 2013, but it is in the works.

Aroos Feature

Gloria Guillen, Hilton LAX, 5711 W. Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045 Tel 310-410-6128 - gloria.guillen@hilton.com - www.losangelesairport.hilton.com

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A Color Story: Harvest Gold Whether brides choose to borrow from their own cultural and familial traditions or create a new one, the many shades of orange have the power to turn heads and evoke all the feelings of fall, sunsets and warmth.

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Photography provided by stock.xchng

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A Color Story: Green with Envy From mint to sage to green tea, the wedding color spectrum’s most versatile player is, without a doubt, green.

Evoke nature’s beauty using your choice of myriad hues, from barely there to bold and bright.

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Photography provided by stock.xchng

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A Color Story: Autumnal Bliss Classic meets chic in the combination of orange and green, found in everything from flowers to accessories and tablescapes this season. Consider natural elements like pumpkins and gourds, or gerbera daisies for a pop of modernity.

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Photography provided by stock.xchng

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Aroos Feature

All photography in this article provided by Posch.

A ‘Posch’ New Restaurant Prepare to be amazed when you visit Posch, a gorgeous restaurant and special event venue in Irvine with a famous OC pedigree. By Candice Yacono

If you’re seeking a venue for a rehearsal dinner, bridal shower or even an intimate wedding, look no futher than Posch Restaurant.

The gorgeous new option at 18912 Macarthur Blvd., Irvine boasts multiple rooms and an audio-visual system that would make many nightclubs jealous.

“Everything has been going so well,” said Suzette Parvin, who runs the restaurant with

her celebrity chef husband Jimmy Z. He is long known for other local restaurants like Forty Carrots and Garden Bistro.

Posch offers a heavily organic and fresh Mediterranean menu. “Jimmy takes pride in everything he chooses,” Suzette said; the fish is never frozen, the beef is grass-fed, the sauces and spices are fresh and the crème brulee is to die for. “It’s my recipe, and it uses Fall 2011 •

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Aroos Feature

two vanilla beans, which you never find anywhere,” Suzette said. “Even the Ritz Carlton only uses one per batch.”

Other favorites on the extensive menu include the Salad Shirazi, the wildly popular Honey Mustard Chicken Dijon, and the famed Jimmy Z Spaghetti Bolognaise, which has made its way to Posch.

The restaurant has hosted many gatherings and special events, from a Los Angeles Raiderettes pink-and-black bridal shower to corporate meetings to Suzette’s own burlesque-themed birthday party to school foundation get-togethers and prom parties. Posch also has hosted some intimate weddings in-house.

The 12,000-square-foot venue can arrange all necessary vendors, and can arrange anything from a small birthday dinner in a private room to a whole-restaurant function. There are six individually decorated rooms: the Chandelier Room, Red Room, Penthouse, Venetian Blue Room, Wine Cellar and White Room. The venue offers a state of the art sound system, 12 plasma televisions, and four fireplaces.

“We can offer everything. We’re very innovative in that way; we’ll create an event for you,” Suzette said, including coordinating vendors.

The restaurant boasts an innovative videocamera that lowers from the ceiling and can film the entire event, with a DVD given to the organizers at the end of the night. In addition, with advance notice, Posch can arrange with local hotels like the Hilton or the Fairmont to have shuttle service available for guests, so they can stay in the hotel and get direct transportation to the event — making it perfect for options like rehearsal dinners, particularly when the wedding is held at the hotel. Suzette emphasized that Posch is perfect for upcoming holiday events, including ever-popular winter weddings, as it will be sumptuously decorated.

For more information, call Suzette at (949) 833-1900 or email suzette@poschrestaurant.com.

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F��uzan & Ami� July 23, 2011

ii The couple: Foruzan Bigdeli & Amir Zargar

Wedding Report

The ceremony location: Corona del Mar. The reception location: The Orange County Mining Co.

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The flowers and color scheme: The flowers were by Botanica Floral. The color scheme was white, peach and light pink. The bride’s ensemble: Her dress was purchased from Paradise Creations Bridal, and her shoes were by Nina, and purchased from Nordstrom. Her hair was by Mali from The Art of Hair, and her makeup was by Philip from MAC. The groom’s ensemble: A tuxedo from South Coast Plaza. The lighting: The couple rented special lighting setups. The food: By Hatam Restaurant. The cake: By Crown Valley Marketplace’s bakery. The DJ: Rushid. The transportation: The couple used a limousine. The honeymoon: Cancun. The photography and videography: By Navid Studio. The ring: From Brax Jewelry. The favors: Traditional almond candies. The officiant: Mr. Jazayeri. The sofreh: By Taraneh.

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Add a special touch of elegance and passion to your wedding with the sound and sight of live VIOLIN Performed by

Alireza & Pourya Khademi

All musical styles Customized song selection State of the art sound equipment Other instruments and singers available (949) 689-8866

MYVIOLIN.ORG

Aroos Feature

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Zoom Teeth Whitening Special $150 15% off Cosmetic Treatments

Exp. Sept. 30, 2011

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RUBIK Party Plannig

Fruit Design, Tea & Cappuccino section, Chocolate Fountain, Waiter & Waitress, Bartener, Valet Parking, Chair&Tables, Rentals, Tents & More...

Tel: 818-822-2936 Rubikpartyplanning.com

Aroos Feature Experts

Ask the Expert: Luxurious Linens 101 Linens are one of the most effective ways to change the look of your event space. They add color across the room to bring your custom look and feel to your wedding design. Everything from spandex to silk to glittery overlays is available. Linen companies are creating sophisticated options that make your linens look more custom and glamorous than the typical table drape. Here are some common questions brides ask me about linens: Q: How can I save money when using linens?

A: Focus on the tables that get the most attention, like your head table, sweetheart table and cake table. If the venue you have selected offers floor length linens and your budget is tight, rent napkins to bring in a pop of color.

Q: Is it all right to use different textures for my linens?

A: Absolutely. Today’s brides are mixing the smooth, soft satin or silk blends with a beaded overlay or linens that are tufted with rosettes or small crystals.

Q: I love table runners but I am not having a long banquet table. Can I still use them?

A: Yes, just make sure they are going in the

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Wendy Dahl

Chief Inspira�on Officer Chic Produc�ons/ Dahl Wedding Company 18685-A Main St. #372, Hun�ngton Beach, CA 92648 Newport Beach Office: 2901 W. Coast Highway, Suite 200 Newport Beach, CA 92663 Tel: 714.596.4455 / Fax: 714.657.3630 Rancho Mirage Office: 65 Via Santo Tomas Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 Tel: 760.309.2605 / Toll Free: 888.275.0908 info@dahlweddingcompany.com www.dahlweddingcompany.com

same direction on every table. Cross them over each other to add more color to the table.

Q: What is the latest trend in linens?

A: Layering linens to create a luxurious look.

Fine fabrics are created continuously and quickly find their way onto the tables at wedding celebrations. Combining textures and colors adds visual interest to the table. There are new overlays that are fitted to the table’s dimensions, sort of like a table cap, that make the table look more chic. Another option is to swag the over linen using at least three points to create a lavish look while exposing more of the underlinen.

Q: What are some options instead of a chair cover?

A: Chair caps come in long or short lengths that cover just the top of the chair. Chair sashes are also used to wrap around the top of the chair to add color and visual interest.

Q: How can napkins be used as a décor piece?

A: Utilize napkin rings or ribbon bands to add yet another layer of color to the table. This could bring in a third color if your palette consists of more than two colors.

Experts Aroos Feature

Image by StudioEMP.com

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Aroos Feature

All photography in this article courtesy Clarence House and the British Monarchy.

Mirror, mirror, off the wall

Image by Christelle Nahas. All images in this article courtesy UCLA and Kjerstin Gruys.

An engaged UCLA doctoral student has decided to spend one year without looking at mirrors -- including on her wedding day. Read her amazing story below.

By Alison Hewitt Originally published in UCLA Today, www.today.ucla.edu UCLA doctoral student Kjerstin Gruys can’t see her reflection.

Gruys has sworn off looking at herself in mirrors — or in reflective windows, new photos, or even during Skype chats — for an entire year, which, not coincidentally, includes her wedding day. It’s both an extreme stunt and

a serious attempt to improve her self-image by eliminating her ability to criticize what she sees in the mirror.

The sociology student and former fashion employee, who studies the relationship between beauty and inequality by looking at body size and the fashion industry, was newly engaged and had just finished shopping for a wedding dress when inspiration for the mirrordiet struck in March.

After weeks of casting a critical eye on her-

self in the mirror, the 28-year-old was fed up with the voice in her head that said she didn’t look good enough. As a feminist and as someone who struggled with an eating disorder in high school and most of college, she knew the bridal industry’s emphasis on perfection was dangerous, and yet she wasn’t immune.

“I felt myself being insecure about my body … even though I know my wedding and future marriage are not built on a foundation of me being one size smaller,” Gruys said. She felt Fall 2011 •

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At left: Gruys tries on her wedding dress. Image at far right by The Goodness. All images in this article courtesy UCLA and Kjerstin Gruys. the urge to realign her feelings with her values — and she wanted to nip any threat of a relapse in the bud. “I realized that I needed to do something, something immediate and possibly a little extreme. … I’m not very good at making small changes.”

The day after buying her dress, she read a story about an order of nuns who, hundreds of years ago, never looked at their own bodies.

They looked at a cross on a wall while they changed or bathed, and never saw themselves in a mirror. To Gruys, it sounded like a kind of freedom.

“It was probably the first time in my life when I thought to myself, ‘Wow, I kind of wish I was a nun,’” she said. “I thought, ‘Could I even go one day without looking at myself in a mirror?’ And then this little voice went off and said, ‘Go bigger, go bigger! If you want this to 46 i

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make a difference in your life, go bigger!’”

She’s five months into the project, and she’s felt the difference. Her self-image has improved, she feels more confident and believes more fully what she always trusted: that her loved ones love her back no matter what she looks like, she said. She blogs about the project at “Mirror, Mirror … OFF The Wall,” where she shares her experiences and insights with other women who struggle with their body image. She drops in tidbits such as studies showing that women look in the mirror an average of 70 times a day, or five full days a year. As her project began to attract media attention, hits on her blog soared to as many as 44,000 a day.

Quirky as Gruy’s commitment is, her academic advisor, UCLA Sociology Professor Abigail Saguy, didn’t bat an eye when she heard

about Gruy’s new after-school project.

“It’s an interesting experiment that complements nicely the research she’s doing on vanity sizing and media reporting on obesity,” Saguy said. “It’s a clever way to observe herself and other’s responses to her. She’s breaching normal conventions and therefore getting a new understanding of what those conventions are. It’s intellectually provocative, and it’s getting the conversation into the public eye.”

Gruys has successfully gone months without mirrors. She covered all the mirrors in her apartment. In public restrooms, she washes her hands while staring at the sink. While walking to work, she looks straight ahead to avoid glimpses of herself reflected in store windows and shiny parked cars. She depends on honest friends to tell her if her lipstick is

Aroos Feature askew or if there’s food in her teeth.

She allowed herself a few weeks transition at the beginning of the project to teach herself mirror-free makeup and blind hairstyling, with the safety net of a quick check in the mirror to see how she’d done, but no longer. In the spirit of the project, she’s sworn off looking at pictures or videos of herself taken during this year – with one exception: her wedding photos.

She’s had slip-ups, mostly when mirrors caught her by surprise, but for the most part, even when an eyelash in her eye left her crying in the middle of a meeting, she hasn’t given in.

Averting her eyes from all the world’s reflective surfaces is tricky, but the real challenges have been more emotional and intellectual.

“The practical stuff is frustrating, but that’s an issue of problem solving,” Gruys said. The hardest moments are the long hours that she works alone most days.

“I realized that I had been using mirrors as a sense of being less alone. I would see my reflection and be like, ‘Oh, hey, there you are. Looking good! Get back to work now.’

And without seeing myself … I would have this weird feeling of ‘Do I even exist?’ That probably sounds so strange,” she said. “But my reflection was a form of companionship I didn’t count on.”

Another surprising challenge has been finding a creative outlet. She’s learned that what she considered to be her shallow love of clothes and makeup actually fulfilled an almost artistic craving.

“I didn’t realize how fun that was until I couldn’t do it anymore. I’m wearing the barest amount of makeup now, and it doesn’t change everyday, so it’s become routine instead of an act of creativity and expression,” she said.

ting anyone,” she said. She’s started a tradition of no-makeup Mondays, anyway.

She’s received lots of support from her fiancé, Michael Ackermann, who encouraged her to start the blog, Gruys said. Fittingly, she interviewed him for the blog, asking him whether he’d noticed any changes in her.

“You don’t look that much different,” he told her. But he’s attracted to her lighter makeup, he added. The look exudes self-confidence, he said on her blog: MICHAEL: I like it. I think it’s really sexy. You have beautiful eyes and beautiful cheeks, and I see you more now. And since you’re not wearing much makeup I can actually see your skin instead of a layer of film and gunk, and stuff.

KJERSTIN: Film and gunk!??! Hey now! You never complained about it before.

MICHAEL: Well, whatever. There’s just something really nice about you being just you. … It feels more “That was actually a good thing to find out, special now when you DO wear more makeup. that wearing makeup and picking out clothes You’ve made it meaningful instead of munwasn’t just about covering flaws, but also dane, because it marks special occasions.

With feedback like that, perhaps it’s no about being creative.” Shoe-shopping became her new outlet because “I have a great view of surprise that Gruys feels comfortable going mirror-free for their wedding day on Oct. 1. my feet.”

“I know that will be a challenge, but I try to She’s taken a lot of flak for wearing makeup during her mirrorless year, with online focus on the fact that this is probably the only commentators asking her how she can accept day of my life when so many of my loved ones herself or call herself a feminist if she still al- in my life are in the same place,” Gruys said. ters her appearance to feel comfortable and “[They’re] my motivation to get away from the beautiful. Gruys sees makeup as a gray area, mirror to go spend time with these people and listing other things that alter appearances and appreciate these other meanings of the day.”

On March 26, 2012, Gruys — by then marimpressions: shoes, deodorant, even wearing clothes. Like makeup, sometimes they can be ried, a year older and more confident — will part of an oppressive, sexist beauty culture, look in the mirror again. Her first act, she said, but “they’re also things we take for granted for will be to come up with a list of 10 things she simply moving through society without upset- loves about what she sees.

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Feature Aroos Experts

I Asked For a Cup of Coffee ...

What She Gave Me Was a Sexual Harassment Lawsuit!

(A Brief Review into the Dos and Don’ts To Prevent Sexual Harassment) In a rather humorous case, a woman was fired from her job as a receptionist after she refused to deliver coffee for the men working at the office. Instead of serving them coffee, she served her former employers with a Title VII Sexual Harassment suit based on her allegations that asking herself and other female receptionists for coffee on a daily basis is sexually offensive. Fortunately for the men being sued, U.S. District Judge Berle M. Schiller wrote, “The act of getting coffee is no, by itself, a genderspecific act”, followed by a judgment in favor of the men being sued.

Sexual harassment can occur at any time and place, however most lawsuits arising from sexual harassment come from a work environment. While asking for coffee is clearly not an act of sexual harassment, there are many specific guidelines that business owners and office employees alike are unaware of in terms of what constitutes sexual harassment.

This lack of awareness of work-related sexual harassment is apparent by a reported 12,510 sexual harassment charges received just last year in 2007 by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Sexual harassment at work occurs whenever unwelcome conduct on the basis of gender affects a person’s job.

It is defined by the EEOC as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: • submission to the conduct is made 48 i

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either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment, or • submission to or rejection of the conduct by an individual is used as a basis for employment decisions affecting such individual, or • the conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment.

While dealing with sexual harassment conflicts at a workplace in a responsible fashion is a good choice, an even better route is to simply prevent sexual harassment from occurring to begin with. There are many strategies to adopt in order to prevent sexual harassment from occurring at a work environment. Here are just a few ways to keep your work environment protected from sexual harassment incidents: Keep Your Staff Informed – Try to set up an annual meeting educating your employees and managers on what sex-

ual harassment is and how important it is to their careers and the company as a whole to be cautious of their behavior amongst their fellow employees. In fact, starting in 2006, California passed a law in which any company that employs 50 or more employees is required to provide a 2 hour training session on sexual harassment to all supervisors at least once every two years.

Adopt a Written Policy – The most powerful defense you have is the pen and paper. Not only will you protect yourself and your business by educating employees about your company’s policy regarding sexual harassment, but you will also have a solid defense to prove your responsibility with regards to sexual harassment should a claim ever be made against you.

Know Your Workplace – Written policies and meetings can only do so much in preventing sexual harassment. It’s important to keep yourself informed of your own work environment by promoting private discussion between yourself and any employee who may have complaints about the environment. Occasional inspections of employee workplaces by watching for offensive notes or drawings is also an important duty to adopt in protecting your company from sexual harassment incidents occurring.

By adopting the above guidelines, you will have a solid line of defense in maintaining a friendly and professional environment for your workplace, while making sure your receptionists don’t mind bringing you that cup of coffee!

Aroos Feature

Noushin Dehnadi, Esq.

Christopher K. Jafari, Esq.

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Aroos Feature

Ta�� & P�nda� July 30, 2011

ii The couple: Tala Taghvay & Pendar Fazeli

Wedding Report

The location: Hilton Universal City

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The flowers and color scheme: Alison from La Petite Gardenia designed the flower with the couple’s color scheme of blush pink, cream, and white. The flowers were chosen because they complemented the ballroom to match the invitations and gold chivari chairs. The bride’s ensemble: The shoes were from Jimmy Choo, and Henry Zador Salon did the hair and makeup. The bridesmaid’s ensemble: A silver dress from Nordstrom. The groom’s and groomsmen’s ensembles: By Joseph Abboud. The coordinator: Shirley Han from the Fresh Events Company. The invitations: Crane and Co. designed the invitations with a beige and bisque color with diamond studs. The lighting and rentals: By Fresh Events Company.

The food: By Bahador Catering. The cake: By Porto’s Bakery. It was a white and beige three-tier cake with diamond studs around it, along with the couple’s two initials on top. The entertainment: Singer Morteza, Aris Band, and DJ. Dzien. The honeymoon: The Cayman Islands. The photography, slideshow and videography: By Navid Studio. The rings: Classical styles from Tiffany and Co. The favors: Picture frames that were around the seating cards, from I Do Concepts. The officiants: Pastor Eric Heard and Masoud Fardmanesh. The sofreh: By Pouri Houshiar Nejad. From the couple: We want to thank everyone that attended our special day with us. Many guests also came from many different states and countries, so we appreciate that so much. — As told by Tala & Pendar.

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Aroos Feature

All images in this article are in the public domain.

‘May These Nuptials Be Blessed’ Add a touch of poetry to your wedding ceremony, programs or reception with the inspiring and timeless works of Rumi. Choose from the following powerful selections.

May the blessings which flow in all weddings be gathered, God, together in our wedding!

The blessings of the Night of Power, the month of fasting, the festival to break the fast, the blessings of the meeting of Adam and Eve, the blessings of the meeting of Joseph and Jacob, the

blessings of gazing on the paradise of all abodes and yet another blessing which cannot be put in words: the fruitful scattering of joy of the children of the Shayak and our eldest!

In companionship and happiness may you be like milk and honey in union and fidelity, just like sugar

and halva.

May the blessings of those who toast and the one who pours the wine anoint the ones who said Amen and the one who said the prayer.

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Aroos Feature This Marriage - Ode 2667 May these nuptials be blessed for us, may this marriage be blessed for us, May it be ever like milk and sugar, this marriage like wine and halvah.

May this marriage be blessed with leaves and fruits like the date tree; May this marriage be laughing forever, today,tomorrow, like the hours of paradise.

May this marriage be the sign of compassion and the approval of happiness here and hereafter; May this marriage be fair of fame, fair of face and fair of omen as the moon in the azure sky.

I have fallen silent for words cannot describe how the spirit has mingled with this marriage.

Be silent! Venus becomes the Here tonight, You go again Cupbearer tonight To the wedding and feasting.

And offers glasses to our sweetO beauty who adorned our city, You will be groom to the beauties. heart, Whose skin is fair and rosy, Who takes a glass and drinks.

How nicely You walk in our neighborhood, For the sake of God, because of Coming to us so beautifully. our praying, O our river, O One Now Sufis become exuberant Who is searching for us, How nicely You flow in our stream. At the assembly of God’s Absence.

They put the belt of zeal on their waists How nicely You flow with our And start Sama. desires, Unfastening the binding of our One group of people froth like the feet.

You make us walk so nicely, hold- sea, Prostrating like waves. ing our hand, The other group battles like O Joseph of our world. swords, Drinking the blood of our glasses.

Cruelty suits You well.

Translation by A.J. Arberry, The It’s a mistake for us to expect Your University of Chicago Press, 1991 Be silent! Tonight, the Sultan loyalty.

Went to the kitchen.

Step as You wish on our bloody --------------------------------------He is cooking with joy.

Soul.

But a most unusual thing, Our feast, our wedding Tonight, the Beloved is cooking O Soul of my Soul, pull our Souls Will be auspicious to the world. our Halva.

To our Beloved’s temple.

God fit the feast and wedding Take this piece of bone.

To our length like a proper garTranslated by Nevit Oguz Ergin Give it as a gift to our Huma ment.

Current Walla Walla, WA, U.S.A O wise ones, give thanks Venus and the moon --------------------------------------To our Sultan’s kindness, who Will be matched to each other, adds Souls to Soul, The parrot with sugar.

The minute I heard my first love Keep dancing, O considerate The most beautifully-faced story, ones.

Beloved I started looking for you, not Makes a different kind of wedding Keep whirling and dancing. knowing every night. how blind that was.

At the wedding night of rose and Nasrin With the favor of our Sultan’s Lovers don’t finally meet someI hang the drum on my neck. prosperity, Tonight, the tambourine and small where, Hearts become spacious they’re in each other all along.

And men pair up with each other. drum Will become our clothes.

Troubles and anxieties are all --------------------------------------gone.

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Aroos Feature Your love lifts my soul from the body to the sky And you lift me up out of the two worlds.

I want your sun to reach my raindrops, So your heat can raise my soul upward like a cloud.

--------------------------------------“The beauty of the heart is the lasting beauty: its lips give to drink of the water of life.”

--------------------------------------“Love is the cure, for your pain will keep giving birth to more pain until your eyes constantly exhale love as effortlessly as your body yields its scent.”

--------------------------------------“All day I think about it, then at night I say it.

Where did I come from, and what am I supposed to be doing?

I have no idea.

My soul is from elsewhere, I’m sure of that, and I intend to end up there.”

--------------------------------------“In your light I learn how to love.

In your beauty, how to make poems.

You dance inside my chest, where no one sees you.”

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Aroos Feature

Ti��ni� & Chest�r August 6, 2011

ii The couple: Tiffanie Siyavong & Chester Carson The location: The Wyndham Orange County in Costa Mesa The flowers and color scheme: The colors were purple and silver. Ann from White Sakuras did the flowers; the bride let her design all the arrangements and pick the flowers herself. She did a fantastic job. The bride’s ensemble: Her dress was designed by Pnina Tornai, and it was specially made. It was purchased

Wedding Report

at Kleinfeld in New York. The salon called Blo Out Lounge did her hair, and her close family friend,

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Elisa Sentani, did her makeup. The groom’s and groomsmen’s ensembles: By Men’s Wearhouse. The coordinators: The bride and her mother. The invitations: By Mike Esperanza. The couple purchased paper from Paper Source and created the invitations based on their color scheme. They had their picture printed on the envelope, which was lavender; an inside enclosure was silver, and the actual invitation was printed on transparent paper laid on top of a dark purple paper. The lighting: LED lighting from Invisible Touch. The food: By the hotel. The cake: By Cinderella Cakes, it was a white four-tier cake, with white swirls, purple ribbon and rhinestones wrapped around each layer. The entertainment: Invisible Touch.

The honeymoon: Jamaica. The photography and videography: By Navid Studio. The rings: Greenlake Jewelry designed both; the bride’s engagement ring was a specially designed platinum ring with hand fabrication of leaves and swirls, and the groom’s was an 8mm band made out of Tungsten. The favors: Personalized hot sauce bottles with custom labels. The officiant: The groom’s best friend, Eric Olbekson.

From the couple: We also used Red Carpet Photobooth at the reception, and our two white Samoyed dogs were in the ceremony. — As told by Tiffanie & Chester.

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The Bridal Toolkit: A Wedding Planning Timeline Newly engaged, and wondering what to do next? Or one month away from W-Day, and fretting over the lastminute details? Our timeline will help you plan, no matter how much months, days or hours you have left.

ii ONE YEAR PRIOR - Tell friends and family the good news, potentially at a party! In-person is always better than an email or phone call.

- Discuss what you want your wedding to be like: Formal? Orthodox? Intimate? Also develop a budget. If you’re overwhelmed, enlist a wedding planner or trusted friend.

- Develop your guest list, which will dictate the size of venue and budget.

- Start considering potential dates and locations.

Before even looking for a dress or other “fun” stuff, choose ceremony and reception locations and book them.

NINE MONTHS PRIOR - Find or order your wedding bands.

- Choose the members of your bridal party, officiant and other day-of participants.

- Start selecting vendors like caterers, photographers, florists, sofreh designers, DJs, rental companies, etc., especially if your wedding date is in a popular month.

- Select and book a rehearsal dinner location.

- Begin hunting for The Dress, making sure to leave time for fittings or alterations.

- Start selecting and ordering potential bridesmaid’s 66 i

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dresses and colors with your bridal party, and planning bridal party event dates like the showers and bachelorette parties.

SIX MONTHS PRIOR - Continue looking for and booking other necessary vendors, like transportation and cake bakers.

- Begin discussing and looking for honeymoon locations and deals, and ensure your passport is current.

- Begin gathering addresses for your final guest list, and send out a Save the Date card or email.

- Evaluate groom’s and groomsmen’s attire options, such as renting vs. purchasing.

- Select where to register for wedding and shower gifts, and begin building your registry.

- Attend fittings as required.

- Give deposits to your vendors and finalize contracts.

- Schedule a time for your engagement photo session.

- Design or order invitations and other stationery.

- Develop supplemental materials for your invitations, like maps or directions.

- Make final selections for your floral arrangements.

- Finalize the details for any activities like showers and bridal party events, or bachelorette parties or weekends.

Aroos Feature - Finalize the wedding cake details.

- Find out what’s necessary for a marriage license.

THREE MONTHS PRIOR - Work out accommodation reservations for out-oftown guests.

- Develop a song list for your band or DJ. - Send out your invitations.

- Order products like wedding favors, gifts for the bridal party, ring bearer pillow, cake knife, and the guest book.

- Schedule a hair and makeup trial session, as well as any pre-wedding cuts and color sessions.

ONE MONTH PRIOR - Hold any necessary dress fittings, and ensure you have all needed lingerie and accessories.

- Book appointments for facials, manicures or other services as needed.

- Create a database for your RSVPs. - Select a wedding gift for your future spouse.

- Consider creating a slideshow or photo wall for the reception.

- Confirm plans with all vendors.

- Discuss must-have photos with your photographer.

- Give any necessary payments to your venImages from Stock.Xchng. dors.

- Check up on guests who haven’t responded yet.

- Finalize seating and make seat cards.

- Pick up your marriage license.

- Look into name and address changes.

TWO WEEKS PRIOR - Pick up your gown, tux, rings or other goods.

- Develop a day-of schedule for the vendors and confirm with them.

- Make a list of important information and vendor phone numbers for your wedding day assistant or maid of honor.

- Make a list of necessary tasks to complete after the wedding, like name and address changes.

ONE WEEK PRIOR - Give your final headcount to the caterer.

- Pack for your honeymoon -- it’s really happening!

- Ask someone to return any rentals while you’re on honeymoon, and deliver gifts to your home.

1-2 DAYS PRIOR - Consider a massage or other form of relaxation.

- Give your wedding day assistant any remaining vendor payments and the marriage license, to bring on your wedding day.

- Spend quality time with the bridal party.

- Go over all travel arrangements and sign in for your flight if possible.

- Put together your bridal emergency kit: tape, sewing kit, safety pins, lipstick, etc.

- Attend the rehearsal.

THE BIG DAY - Ensure you leave yourself enough time to get hair and makeup done.

- Ensure you have all necessary items, including your marriage license, and assign them to the maid of honor or a bridesmaid. Ask one to ensure the best man does the same thing.

- Drink lots of water to prevent dehydration, and eat something to prevent feeling faint.

- Take a deep breath, and get ready to be the star of the show!

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Aroos Feature

An Unforgettable Evening

Images courtesy DJ Payman.

With years of experience, DJ Payman promises his clients the best blend of music, live musicians, lighting, slideshows, dancers and more.

DJ Payman has been serving up the best music at the poshest Persian and bicultural weddings for years.

“When I walked into a nightclub for the first time in my life, about 20 years ago in Frankfurt, Germany, and saw the crowd go crazy with the DJ’s music, I knew right there and then that I wanted to be a DJ,” Payman said.

“The next day I bought myself some basic DJ gear and started practicing. Eigh70 i

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teen years ago I moved to Los Angeles, and within a couple of years I started collaborating with the few DJs that were active in the LA area at the time, which eventually led to the establishment of Digital Motion Entertainment.

“In the beginning my gigs were small house parties, but that changed quickly as I gave all my time and attention to my work. People’s happiness and satisfaction is very important to me. Along the way I

met some talented DJs that I started a partnership with, and together we have been able to provide more clients with quality entertainment for their happy occasion.

“As of now, our company does an average of three events a week, including birthdays, bar mitzvahs, bat mitzvahs, corporate events, engagements, weddings and many more.”

Much more than just a DJ, Payman and

Aroos Feature

Images provided by Navid Studio.

his company offer a wide variety of services.

“We can provide our clients with MCs, live musicians, premium lighting including wash wall lighting for any size room, slideshows and dancers,” he said.

Payman says his experience is what makes him stand out from the competition.

“Anybody can buy DJ equipment, learn how to mix music, have a complete music library, be passionate about their work and have a great personality, but what makes us stand out is our experience,” he said.

“Experience is the only thing that cannot be bought with money. After countless events of many types, we are confident that we can handle any crowd with any taste of music. We have done many Israeli, American, Afghan, Indian, Arabic, Russian and Italian events, which in particular makes us

a great choice for bicultural weddings.”

Payman said he has seen an increase in the use of DJs as opposed to live singers and bands at weddings in recent years.

“I think this is mostly due to the large amount of money that they save, considering the current economic state of the country,” he said.

“Hiring a DJ is definitely a great way to save a lot of money for brides with a budget, but a lot of people have the misconception that hiring a DJ means that only one person can perform at their event. This is simply not true. DJs can be accompanied by an MC and live musicians including percussionists, drummers, guitar players, saxophone players and violinists, giving the entertainment a live band feel with a fraction of the cost of a singer.”

DJ Payman 323.595.1202 djpayman@aol.com digitalmotionent.com

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All photography in this article is by Nancy Villere - Crush Photo Studios

Grin and Bare It

Give your groom something more romantic than cufflinks, with a boudoir photography shoot with Crush Photo Studios. By Candice Yacono Have you been trying to figure out what to give your groom for his wedding present? Look no further than Nancy Villere at Crush Photo Studios, who will help you craft a one-of-a-kind gift: a photo session of you at your most beautiful.

Aroos Magazine: How did you become interested in boudoir photography?

Nancy Villere: By believing that every woman should have a fabulous image of themselves! I love the fact that boudoir photography is an empowering and confidence boosting experience, and I wish everyone to be able to experience it.

AM: Could you describe your style

with regard to boudoir?

NV: Crush Photo Studios has an amazing ability to inspire women and help them to tap into their inner sensuality. I create a nurturing environment where every woman can see and feel that they are as gorgeous as a model.

AM: How does a typical boudoir photography session work?

NV: Crush Photo Studios has formed a boudoir photo shoot designated for you to pamper yourself and have royalty treatment, where you are the star!

We created a comfortable and private studio environment. Our talented allfemale team handles everything from professionally styled hair and makeup, to respectfully coaching you through Fall 2011 •

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All photography in this article is by Nancy Villere - Crush Photo Studios

your entire photo shoot and magazine quality retouching!

AM: Why do women choose to model for boudoir photos? Is it just for bridesto-be?

NV: We truly believe that every woman should have a fabulous photo of herself! A boudoir photography photo shoot is very empowering and it’s our absolute pleasure in helping women see how beautiful they are. Crush has created a confidence boosting experience for women of all ages, shapes and sizes.

Boudoir photography can be the perfect gift to your loved one on your wedding night, or even a birthday/anniversary/ Valentine’s Day present … it truly is a present for both him and her. You’ll have images you and your loved one will treasure for a lifetime!

AM: Does a woman only pose nude or in lingerie for this type of photography, or is there a bit of leeway for more modest women?

NV: At Crush Photo Studios, our goal is to create a boudoir photography experience that is classy and private for even the most discerning clients. A boudoir photo shoot at Crush Photo Studios does 76 i

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not need to mean lingerie shots or the ‘illusion of nudity’ shots; we can make you look sexy in even a pretty dress or sweater. With our all-female staff we understand how important it is for our clients to feel comfortable, relaxed and beautiful.

AM: How has this type of photography involved in style and reputation over the last few years?

NV: Boudoir photography and boudoir pictures has been growing in popularity over the last few years. Women have been using boudoir photography as a

new and creative way to express themselves. I have created a new meaning of what boudoir really is: Sexy, playful, classy photos expressing every woman’s beauty!

AM: What regions do you serve?

NV: Our clients come to us from all over, primarily coming from the Inland Empire, Los Angeles, San Diego and Orange County.

For more information on Nancy Villere and Crush Photo Studios, call (949) 7220090 or visit crushphotostudios.com.

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Directory: Orange County Adventures at Sea Yachts Coto de Caza Golf & Racquet Club Disney’s Fairytale Weddings Electra Cruises The Grand Newport Plaza Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort Hyatt Regency Irvine Hyatt Regency Newport Beach The Island Hotel Montage Resort & Spa Newport Beach Marriott Hotel The Plaza at 505 Rancho Capistrano Rancho Las Lomas St. Regis Resort, Monarch Beach Seven Degrees Summit House Surf & Sand Resort

(866) 346-6741 (949) 858-4100 (714) 956-6527 (949) 723-1069 (949) 645-4050 (714) 845-8000 (949) 225-6642 (949) 729-6062 (949) 760-4984 (866) 271-6953 (949) 729-3508 (714) 550-0040 (949) 347-4000 (949) 548-2444 (949) 234-3200 (949) 376-1555 x106 (714) 671-3092 (949) 497-4477

boatcharter.com coto-de-caza.com disneyweddings.com electracruises.com turniprose.com waterfrontresort.com irvine.hyatt.com newporter.hyatt.com islandhotel.com montagelagunabeach.com marriott.com jasoncatering.com ranchocapistrano.org rancholaslomas.com stregismb.com seven-degrees.com summithouse.net surfandsandresort.com

Doubletree Hotel Four Seasons Resort Aviara Grand Tradition Hilton San Diego Resort Hornblower Cruises & Events L’Auberge del Mar Resort Los Willows Riverwalk Golf Club

(619) 688-4024 (760) 603-6800 (760) 728-6466 (619) 275-8957 (619) 686-8700 (800) 278-9901 (888) 731-9400 (619) 296-1991

doubletree.com fourseasons.com grandtradition.com hilton.com hornblower.com laubergedelmar.com loswillows.com riverwalkgc.com

Directory: San Diego

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Directory: Los Angeles Calamigos Ranch California Yacht Club Casa Del Mar Castel In Malibu Cicada The Ebell Of Los Angeles Fantasea Yachts & Yacht Club Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hollywood Hotel Inn of the Seventh Ray Ivy House Gardens Malibu West Beach Club Mandalay Palms Estate Marina Del Rey Marriott Millennium Biltmore Hotel Mountaingate Country Club Music Center Natural History Museum of L.A. The Olympic Collection Banquet Oviatt Penthouse Rancho Chiquita Del Mar Ritz-Carlton, Marina Del Rey Sheraton Delfina Westin Bonaventure Hotel

80 i Aroos Magazine • Fall 2011 80 i Aroos Magazine • Fall 2011

(818) 889-9724 (310) 823-4567 (310) 581-5533 (310) 456-5376 (213) 488-9951 (323) 931-1277 (310) 827-2220 (310) 410-6039 (323) 850-6553 (310) 455-1311 (310) 673-4000 (310) 457-7725 (310) 376-9797 (310) 448-4890 (213) 612-1550 (310) 476-6215 (213) 972-7565 (213) 763-3221 (310) 575-4585 (310) 286-2989 (310) 456-7429 (310) 823-1700 (310) 399-9344 (213) 624-1000

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