Dream Wedding

By Kaylie Carafelli

If you're planning a wedding in Southern California, specifically in the areas of Calabasas, Westlake, Malibu, or along the coast, you're in for a treat. This region is filled with breathtaking wedding venues that will make your special day even more unforgettable. However, with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That's why we're here to help! In this personal guide, we'll share tips and tricks to help you plan your dream wedding in Southern California.

Find Your Perfect Date and Budget

The first step in wedding planning is choosing the date. This will impact your venue options, vendor availability, and budget. Take your time to think about the best date for you and your partner, and consider the schedules of your loved ones. It's important to choose a date that everyone can attend, so they can share this special moment with you.

When it comes to budget, it's important to set a number that works for you and your partner. In California, the average wedding costs around $50,000, but it's possible to have a beautiful wedding for less or more, depending on your preferences and priorities. The most important thing is to prioritize the aspects of your wedding that matter the most to you, and allocate a higher portion of your budget to those items.

Choose Your Dream Venue

The next step is to choose a venue that fits your style and needs. Our area has a wide range of wedding venues, from parks to vineyards, gardens, and historic buildings. It's best to book your venue early, as popular locations tend to fill up quickly.

When selecting your venue, think about the ambiance and the loca tion. If you're having an outdoor wedding, make sure to have a backup plan in case of inclement weath er. Also, consider the logistics of the venue, such as parking and accessibility, so you and your guests can enjoy your day without stress.

Hire Your Dream Team

With so many talented wedding vendors, it's important to choose the right team to bring your vision to life. From florists to photographers, caterers to musicians, and everything in between, you'll want to find professionals who understand your style and can make your special day even more magical.

Take your time to research potential vendors and schedule appointments to meet with each one. During your appointments, share your needs and preferences and ask for samples of their work. It's important to choose vendors who you feel comfortable with and who are easy to communicate with, as they'll be a part of your wedding journey.

Plan Your Personal Ceremony

The ceremony is the heart of your wedding day, and it's important to choose a format and style that reflect your beliefs and values. Whether you prefer a traditional religious ceremony, a secular ceremony, or something in between, there are many options to choose from.

When planning your ceremony, think about the location, the length, and the music you'd like to include. You'll also want to choose an officiant who can help you craft a ceremony that is meaningful, personal, and memorable.

Design Your Memorable Reception

Your reception is where you'll celebrate with your loved ones and make memories that will last a lifetime. When planning your reception, consider the type of food and drinks you'd like to serve, as well as the layout and design of the space. Think about the atmosphere you'd like to create and choose décor and lighting that will make your reception even more special.

Whether you choose to have your reception locally in Calabasas, Westlake, or Malibu or choose a destination in another town along the coast, there are endless possibilities for creating a beautiful and unforgettable event. n

MARCH 24 | THE RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL FOUNDATION & INSTITUTE EXHIBIT : AUSCHWITZ: NOT LONG AGO. NOT FAR AWAY — WEST COAST PREMIERE

The exhibition brings together more than 700 original objects of great historic and human value, objects which were direct witnesses of the horrors of Auschwitz and the Holocaust. These objects serve as the guiding thread of a rigorous and moving account on the history of the German Nazi camp Auschwitz and its dwellers, both victims and perpetrators. Sellouts expected. Ticket inventory limited. Plan your visit in advance. VIsit reaganfoundation.org

MARCH 25 | THE RONALD REAGAN LIBRARY FIRST LADY’S TEA AND TOUR

The Ronald Reagan Library is pleased to offer the First Lady’s Tea and Tour. This elegant tea includes fresh baked English scones, petite finger sandwiches, a selection of delectable tea cakes, and of course tea. This event comes complete with linen and china service, fresh floral centerpieces, and a professional wait staff. By yourself or with a group of friends, the First Lady’s Tea and Tour is truly an exceptional experience. Visit reaganfoundation.org

April

APRIL 1 | OAKS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL DINNER AUCTION GALA

Celebrate all night long! Oaks Christian School is excited to celebrate their 2023 Dinner Auction Gala featuring Grammy Hall of Famer and singer/songwriter Lionel Richie with celebrity emcee Jay Leno! Join them on Saturday, April 1, at the historic and elegant Beverly Wilshire Hotel. For general questions and ticket information, visit oakschristian. org/support-ocs/2023-dinner-auction-gala

APRIL 16 | 3 PM – 6:30 PM | SMOOTH JAZZ PRESENTED BY LOVING HOME HOSPICE

Enjoy live jazz from professional artists Gregg Karukas, Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance at UCLA Ensemble, Silk Sax, Sami Shapiro, and Cathy Segal-Garcia, along with appetizers and dinner at Sherwood Country Club, 320 Stafford Road, Thousand Oaks. Event supports Loving Home Hospice For Children, an organization that provides hospice and palliative care for children with life threatening illnesses. For more information, visit lovehomehospice.org

APRIL 21 TO APRIL 22 - 7 PM | APRIL 23 – 2 PM | VIEWPOINT SCHOOL’S LIVE PRODUCTION OF GREASE Viewpoint and its Upper School Conservatory of Theatre presents a live production of Grease in their on-campus Carlson Family Theater. Book, Music and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. Tickets $15 General Admission $10 Students. Celebrating its 50-year anniversary this fast-moving period piece pays affectionate homage to the bittersweet coming-of-age of a group of high school kids in the late 1950s. For more info, visit viewpoint.org/arts/performing-arts/theater-season

APRIL 23– MAY 21 | THE 58TH PASADENA

Showcase House

OF DESIGN

Visit Stewart House, a 1933 grand colonial estate with spectacular acreage in a storied neighborhood of Pasadena. One of Pasadena’s most celebrated architectural partnerships, Stewart House will take you back to the days of gracious architecture and quintessential Showcase with over 11,000 square feet of living space sited on two acres of carefully landscaped and exquisitely manicured grounds. For info visit pasadenashowcase.org/showcase-house

APRIL 23 | 2 PM-5 PM | CITY OF CALABASAS EARTH DAY CELEBRATION/GREEN EXPO

Please join the City of Calabasas and all sponsors in celebrating Earth Day. Come learn about ways you can help our environment! Free admission. Green Expo, free giveaways, learning booths, wildlife presentation, and live music by Marlon Hoffman Band. Las Virgenes Creek on Agoura Road

Send calendar submissions three months in advance to editor @calabasasstylemagazine.com.