CVLUX JUL|AUG 2017

JUL/AUG

BEAT THE

HEAT SUNSATIONAL BEAUTY PRODUCTS

SUMMER

LOVE DESTINATION ROMANCE

DANCING QUEEN AN INTERVIEW WITH CARRIE ANN INABA

GET THE

FOR LOVE

Above: Platinum Sapphire Diamond Necklace, Oscar Heyman $200,000.00 www.oscarheyman.com

C A L I F O R N I A · V I B E JUL/AUG 2017: Bridal Edition

IN EVERY ISSUE 016 Editor’s Letter 020 Masthead 022 Contributors A SOCIAL AFFAIR 026 Derby Down

Benefiting Valley Children’s Hospital 028 Men Who Cook

Benefiting The Fresno Art Museum 030 Fiesta De Los Ninos

Benefiting EPU Children’s Center 032 An Evening In Monte Carlo Benefiting The Regional Cancer Treatment & Research Center

Above Carrie Ann Inaba Photographed by John Russo Dress Ramy Brook Necklaces Marco Bicego Earrings Marco Bicego Rings Lafonn and Open Hearts by Jane Seymour Collection Shoes Christian Louboutin

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WE ARE PLEASED TO OFFER A LARGE SELECTION OF CERTIFIED LOOSE DIAMONDS, MODERN AND VINTAGE STYLE BRIDAL RINGS, AND MEN’S WEDDING BANDS BY LASHBROOK. FOR THE MOST IMPORTANT DAY OF YOUR LIFE, ONLY THE PERFECT DIAMOND WILL DO. LAYAWAY AVAILABLE. 14-DAY RETURN POLICY. LIFETIME AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEE. LICENSE #00000780

C A L I F O R N I A · V I B E JUL/AUG 2017: Bridal Edition

FASHION & FEATURES 037 Shake + Stir

An Evening At FIVE Restaurant 050 Sunsational Citrus 052 Dancing Queen

An Interview With Carrie Ann Inaba 059 For The Gents WHEN IN HOME 040 Desert Oasis 048 Mod-Mood BRIDAL 068 Something Blue 075 I Do ... My Way 082 Endless Love 089 One & Only

On The Cover Carrie Ann Inaba Photographed by John Russo Dress Badgley Mischka Earrings Marco Bicego

LUXURY AWARDS

LETTTER FROM THE EDITOR

CVLUX is pleased to present the Luxury Awards. Each year CVLUX recognizes the top businesses who represent the best of the best in the Valley. In addition five coveted Diamond Awards are presented to various businesses and individuals who have given back to the community through their charitable contributions. Nominations for this year’s awards began on June 30, 2017. This year a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Art of Life Cancer Foundation.

WHEN & WHERE Friday, January 26, 2018 6:00 P.M. to Midnight Tornino’s Banquet 5080 North Blackstone Avenue Fresno, California 93710

TABLE & TICKET PRICES Premium Table for 10 $2,000.00 *includes premium table placement, plated dinner, table signage, wine and champagne Reserved Table for 10 $1,500.00 *includes plated dinner and wine

OUR PARTNERS

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

I

n this special bridal edition of CVLUX, we celebrate one of life’s most significant milestones: weddings. Within these pages, we address all your bridal questions, from fashion to etiquette, to help make your life on your big day a bit easier.

My personal favorite article in this issue, entitled Endless Love, can be found on page 82. We were fortunate enough to get a glimpse inside the magnificent wedding of Rae Pardini and Michael Matson. Maui was the destination for this simply stunning event where every detail was meticulously thought out. If you are looking for inspiration for your big day, you need not look any further.

When selecting this month’s cover feature, we were instantly drawn to the funny, charming and charismatic Carrie Ann Inaba. Features Editor, Andrea Towers, sat down with Carrie Ann a little over a month ago and covered everything Dancing With The Stars, her tireless career in the entertainment industry and all her philanthropic endeavors. Celebrity photographer John Russo captured this beauty at the fabulous London Hotel in West Hollywood. You can read all about Carrie Ann and see her stunning images on page 52.

I am also pleased to announce the latest additions to the CVLUX family, Fashion Editor, Rema Koligian and Beauty Editor, Jessica McCafferty. Rema is a local Valley girl who runs the wildly popular blog, Jewelry & Jeans, while Jessica lives and works on the East Coast and resides in the heart of Chicago.

So, celebrate life’s most momentous occasions in luxurious style. And may you have the happily ever after you have always dreamed of.

Cheers,

David Manning 16

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Experience the before and after

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C A L I F O R N I A · V I B E

DAVID MANNING Editor-in-Chief, Partner

DONNA KACZMARSKI Creative Director, Partner

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENTS Managing Editor CHERYL ENSOM DACK Fashion Editor REMA KOLIGIAN Style Editor STEVE GALINDO Beauty Editor JESSICA MCCAFFERTY Interiors Editor MIKE RAGAN Lifestyle Editor MICHELLE PERANICH Features Editors ASHER COREY, ANDREA TOWERS and ANN T. SULLIVAN WHITEHURST ART Design Director PHENG MOUA Graphic Artist JENNIFER REDDING Contributing Photographers MICHAEL BRANNIGAN, GREY CRAWFORD, DON DIZON KENNY MCSPADDEN, ALICIA REVERIE, RAY REVERIE, JOHN RUSSO and VERO SUH CVLUX.COM Director NIK ASHJIAN Digital Editor LAUREN K. T. WILSON BUSINESS Accounting DEE ANN LINKER Legal GONTORWON BORH Please submit all advertising inquires to information@cvlux.com.

Letters To The Editor: We want to hear from you. Please submit letters to: CVLUX, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720 or e-mail to information@cvlux.com. Letters must be signed and deemed appropriate for our readership to be considered for publishing. Letters are subject to editing and may be cut for length.

Story Queries: Are you a writer? Please send story queries to information@cvlux.com. Please allow six to eight weeks for a response. CVLUX is not responsible for unsolicited material.

CVLUX is published bi-monthly by Modern Living Publishing LLC, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720. Copyright 2014 by Modern Living Publishing LLC. All rights reserved.

Every effort has been made to ensure the information within this publication is complete and accurate at the time of publication. CVLUX does not warrant such accuracy or the claims of its advertisers. All materials, articles, reports, original artwork and photos published in this magazine are the property of Modern Living Publishing LLC and cannot be used or reproduced without permission in writing. Modern Living Publishing LLC is not responsible for the opinions expressed within the publication. Prices quoted in advertisements are subject to change without notice.

Above: Platinum Ruby Diamond Necklace, Oscar Heyman $950,000.00 www.oscarheyman.com

Experience Luxury…

INDOORS & OUT

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Hwy 41 & Avenue 12 | Open Daily 11am to 6pm | McCaffreyHomes.com All square footages stated are approximate. Actual square footage will vary. Pictured homes are models with some features, furnishings and landscaping not included in the purchase price. Included features vary throughout the models and are subject to change without notice. Information about community association facilities and assessments is available in the Sales Office. Homes, prices, financing, incentives and included features are effective date of publication deadline and subject to prior sale, change or cancellation without notice. Persons shown do not reflect racial preference. The McCaffrey Group, Inc. dba McCaffrey Homes. Offered by McCaffrey Home Realty, Inc., CA Real Estate Broker #01222049.

CONTRIBUTORS Rema Koligian Fashion Editor

Rema Koligian has a fashion, beauty and lifestyle blog, Jewelry & Jeans. This is where she shares all of her stylish looks and beauty tips, plus provides a glimpse into her life as a wife and mom to two little boys. Be sure to catch up with her latest looks at www.jewelrynjeans. com and on Instagram @jewelryandjeans.

Steve Galindo Style Editor

Steve is an actor, blogger and stylist in fabulous Beverly Hills, California. You can follow this fashion guru @thestyleguyde or on his blog at www.thestyleguyde.wordpress.com.

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Mike Ragan

Michelle Peranich

Interiors Editor

Lifestyle Editor

With a successful career in modeling, acting and dancing on and off Broadway, Michael founded RAGS, a high end custom furniture company which is celebrating its 25th year in business. Mike is a brand identity expert, marketing and merchandising consultant. He proudly partners with renowned designers and retailers around the country to create some of the best home interiors in the world. Mike’s love of food, nature, photography and travel serve as inspiration on a daily basis. He resides in Southern California with his partner, Ben, and Weimaraners, Olive and Dover.

From 1988-2006, Michelle worked at the world famous restaurant, Spago, located in West Hollywood with Wolfgang Puck. While at Spago, Michelle learned about fine dining, amazing food, wine pairing, as well as taking care of some of the most famous celebrities in the entertainment industry.

In 2006, Michelle decided to start her own catering and event production business, Michelle & Company. Michelle & Company became an instant success, not only because Michelle’s food is always wonderful but because of the entire experience. Whether it is an intimate dinner for 30 guests, a gala for the Music Center, or a wedding under the stars, Michelle has always exceeded her clients’ expectations.

CONTRIBUTORS Lauren K.T. Wilson Digital Editor A Central Valley-based writer/stylist, Lauren attributes her obsessive acknowledgement of all things creative and fashionable to her nomadic spirit ... and watching her mom try on gowns at Bergdorf Goodman in New York. Traveling abroad since childhood, as well as paying proud tribute to her left and right coast roots, she developed an unmistakable appreciation of artistic expression. Lauren has worked both as a model and creatively on commercials, editorial concepts and print advertising. Among her other passions in life are her family, yoga, travel ... and a good horror movie.

Ann T. Sullivan Whitehurst Features Editor

Ann T. Sullivan Whitehurst is a Valley legend.

She has performed in numerous productions with the Fresno Opera Association, the Fresno Philharmonic, and was a founding member of Good Company Players. She started the Saint Agnes Communications Program in 1980, breathing new life into the Foundation, as well as by spearheading two capital fundraising campaigns. In 1990, she founded her own agency, WSW Associates. Currently, she is working with various national insurance companies in the workers’ compensation field. She keeps herself busy with three sons, William, Winston and Warren, and her beloved dog, Mr. Chips.

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Cheryl Ensom Dack Managing Editor Cheryl is a copy-editor, mixed-media artist, blogger and mom. In addition to editing for CVLUX, she edits for a small publishing house and sells her art on etsy, some of which have been featured in Somerset Memories and Somerset Quilting Studio. Her favorite things to do are spending time with her family, thrift store shopping and creating heirlooms for both family and customers.

Clothes may make THE MAN. But the perfect suit makes THE GENTLEMAN.

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A SOCIAL AFFAIR DERBY DOWN

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A SOCIAL AFFAIR MEN WHO COOK

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cvlux.com @cv_luxury

A SOCIAL AFFAIR FIESTA DE LOS NINOS

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A SOCIAL AFFAIR AN EVENING IN MONTE CARLO

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ABOUT THE SANTÉ HEALTH FOUNDATION

S

anté Health Foundation, a physician-owned, not-for-profit medical foundation, began operation in 2012, dedicated to the Fresno and Clovis area. Currently comprised of about 350 physicians in the area, with more joining every month, Santé Health Foundation and Community Medical Centers are strategic partners dedicated to delivering the highest quality coordinated care to all their patients through use a of shared electronic health record. Along with recruiting needed physicians, both primary care and specialists, they offer medical education to professionals and health education to the public and support medical research in our community.

Santé Health Foundation conducts or supports a variety of activities aimed at improving the health of our community, not just treating it. They provide support for a community-based free family health fair, offering services to people who do not have a doctor. They conducted the “Women Helping Women” healthy heart campaign, and as part of that, a wellness walk in Woodward Park and health education addressing heart disease in women, as well as a Kid’s Expo Health Fair, which highlighted pediatric primary and specialty care. In addition, Santé Health Foundation sponsors the Healthy Cooking for Kids program and serves as the corporate sponsor of Art of Life, a cancer survivor support program.

Beginning in 2016, Santé Health Foundation has hosted an annual fundraising Gala, raising funds to support the expansion of pediatric specialty services at Community Medical Centers.

This year’s Gala, “An Evening in Monte Carlo,” held on May 13, 2017 on the campus of Clovis Community Medical Center, was dedicated to benefiting the medical care that will be delivered at the Regional Cancer Treatment and Research Center, which is currently under construction on the Clovis Campus of CMC. This state-of-the-art center will offer the best and most comprehensive cancer care in the Valley.

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A SOCIAL AFFAIR AN EVENING IN MONTE CARLO

“The Gala was a tremendous, wonderful event that will only grow in the future. It was extremely well done.

The funding of, and emotional support for cancer care at the Gala was fantastic. The community really came together for the benefit of everyone in our region,” raved Tim Joslin, CEO of Community Medical Centers.

its kind cancer delivery system in this region. We also kicked off a fundraising endeavor for a $10 million cancer research endowment. We have great ambitions to raise the bar of the quality of care for the entire region,” said Medical Oncologist, Christopher R. Perkins, MD.

There were over 600 people in attendance at “An Evening in Monte Carlo,” all in formal attire for an evening of dinner, dancing, games and a live charity auction. The net proceeds of the Gala will be used for direct patient care at the new Regional Cancer Treatment and Research Center.

“An Evening in Monte Carlo,” the second annual gala, extremely successful by all accounts, was also a testament to the level of community support for this new venture. “It was extremely touching to see the outpouring of community involvement in support of the Foundation and CMC’s mission to develop a world-class cancer program,” said Medical Oncologist, Michael J. Moffett, MD.

“The Santé Health Foundation Gala was an annual reunion of the Santé physician family. It was not only a time to gather but also to create awareness and raise needed resources for CMC’s patient-focused, technology-driven program. It was a fantastic success as we raised $365,000 necessary to create the first of

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C reating A Higher Standard

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THE CRACKED PEPPER

SHAKE +STIR HOSTED AT FIVE RESTAURANT

Managing Editor Cheryl Ensom Dack Photographer Don Dizon Florals Simply Flowers

CVLUX

invited six local women to the first of an exclusive, invitation-only series, Shake + Stir. Pat and Marina LaRocca, the talented owners of FIVE Restaurant, a local hot spot that specializes in a unique California Italian blend of cuisine, hosted this issue’s event. As the Valley heats up, FIVE has created a new variety of refreshing and delicious salads, hors de’oeurves and drinks perfect for the summer months, and the women of Shake + Stir were able to sample their delectable offerings.

The group was composed of Tammie Riley, Dina Juve, Brooke Imrie, Tracy Kashian, Ivette Ibarra and the always-fabulous Ann T. Sullivan Whitehurst.

Most of the women knew one another, but a few were introduced for the first time, and there was an undeniable and instant chemistry. It was a perfect combination of personalities, and set the tone for a fun, light-hearted evening of delicious tasting and conversation.

Even before they were seated, the women were first presented with “The FIVE Royale,” FIVE’s version of a Stockholm Royale, a signature drink this season, featuring syrup made in-house, and pronounced “delicious,” by more than one of the women. This sweet, bubbly and effervescent drink glides down easily and gives the elixir an instant rush when consumed.

The group was seated in the cozy wine room, flanked by racks of only the best bottles in town. At a square table, conducive to conversation, lay an oversized centerpiece, perfectly suited to the season, created

by Simply Flowers, which overflowed generously, lightly caressing the linens and surrounded by amber votive candles. Verdant greens and vivid colors, all set in a simple but elegant unfinished wooden box, made the perfect adornment and served as an excellent conversation piece.

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While the group sipped their “FIVE Royales,” two beautiful salads were presented by the LaRocca’s.

The first, a Seared Tuna salad, beautifully plated, was declared delicious by all, and proclaimed as Dina’s favorite. The salad featured spinach leaves, fraise, radicchio, round potatoes, Calimato olives, eggs, bread crumbs and pickled shallots. It was topped with a light but zesty Lemon Garlic Mustard Vinaigrette.

The second salad was a Kale and Brussel Sprout Salad composed of kale, brussel sprouts, goat cheese, blueberries, shallots and almonds. A Lime Honey Basil Vinaigrette was drizzled on top as a perfect complement to the delicious and artfullycrafted salad. More than a few of the women were enchanted by this delicious offering.

The hors de’oeurve portion was well received by everyone! They were hard-pressed to pick a favorite. Delicate Fillet Bites with a spicy, creamy blue cheese sauce topped with chimichurri sauce was Ann’s favorite. Cheeseburger Rolls were Ivette and Tracy’s favorite: a yummy twist on the wanton roll, which included ground beef, onions and cheddar cheese in a wanton roll, sprinkled with a bacon “special sauce” and served in a lettuce cup.

Last but not least, Tammie and Brooke’s “favorite”: Short Rib Raviolo, a single delicious raviolo handmade out of short rib beef and topped with rib sauce.

Throughout the hors de’ooeurve portion, the women were presented with various summer-perfect cocktails, including what FIVE owners, Pat and Marina, called “The New Happy Hour Drink for Summer:” Cucumber Watermelon Daiquiri, which Ann, not usually a cocktail drinker, found delightful.

It was the perfect blend of sweet and savory and most of the women had more than one.

Another delectable cocktail is one that put FIVE’s Happy Hour on the map: The Pomegranate Martini.

Carefully hand-crafted with pomegranate liqueur, Pom Pom juice and 3 Olives pomegranate vodka.

This fruity and tart concoction was another fan favorite.

After bringing a classic Italian dessert liqueur, Limonchello, for each woman at the table, they were presented with three mouth-watering dishes that were almost too beautiful too eat: Crème Brulée, topped with fresh fruit, FIVE’s Signature Bread Pudding and a Lava Cake paired with Espresso Ice Cream. All three dishes were wiped clean, although Tracy and Tammie pronounced the Bread Pudding their favorites, Ivette favored the Crème Brulée and everyone loved the Lava Cake.

Stay tuned for the next Shake + Stir which will be hosted at Max’s Bistro & Bar. For additional images and content from this event, visit www.cvlux.com.

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Natural Inspiration

Saint Agnes Restoration

Nature’s designs repeat all around us, from the branches of the Valley Oak to the blood vessels in your heart. But Saint Agnes Medical Center is the first – and most experienced – Central Valley hospital to perform transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), which gives patients renewed hope. Our physicians deliver new valves with a tiny catheter, avoiding traditional surgery. We think that makes every heartbeat even more miraculous. Evaluate your cardiac health at ProtectYourMiracle.com.

DESERT OASIS MICHAEL BERMAN REVIVES A CLASSIC MID-CENTURY MODERN IN THE INDIAN CANYONS NEIGHBORHOOD OF SOUTH PALM SPRINGS

MIKE RAGAN PHOTOGRAPHER GREY CRAWFORD INTERIOR DESIGNER MICHAEL BERMAN, MICHAEL BERMAN LIMITED INTERIORS EDITOR

The art of the mix: an Anglo-Indian carved ebony table paired with early 1960s Italian modern chairs under a mid-century hanging pendant with smoked gray glass orbs.

Opposite page: Born the same year as the home, a classic 1964 Cadillac Sedan DeVille.

Los Angeles Interior Designer and entrepreneur, Michael Berman, was originally drawn to Palm Springs in the late ‘90s when the mid-century modern craze was just beginning. Palm Springs offered a quiet respite from Los Angeles and conjured up the Frank Sinatra/Dean Martin suave, easyliving of the 1960s. Michael says, “I had always admired this home, built in 1964, because of its iconic location in the Indian Canyons neighborhood of South Palm Springs.” Destiny played a major role in purchasing this midcentury home when a friend happened to mention that he had a “pocket listing” for an amazing architectural property. Michael couldn’t believe his luck when this opportunity to purchase his dream home in Palm Springs became a reality.

The home has an elegant L-shaped floor plan with local whitewater rock walls piercing from the exterior through the interior and incredible views of the Sleeping Indian mountain range.

The first piece of furniture Michael purchased for the home was the Milo Baughman chaise lounge in chocolate-colored velvet with a stainless steel base. This served as the starting point for all of his eclectic but mid-century inspired furnishings. “I decided to keep the white terrazzo floors naked from any area rugs to keep the cool and minimal feeling of the home,” according to Michael. Each bedroom and guest suite retains an atrium with white rock walls and privacy. A scavenger by nature, Michael’s passion and hobby are one in the same: “shopping for the treasures left behind from a bygone era of martinis and go-go boots.” Black and white photography, as well as abstract studio art, serve as backdrops on the crisp white walls throughout the house.

The Palm Springs home has served as somewhat of a laboratory for Michael’s own furniture and product lines which are “minimal, eclectic, with a nod to mid-century styling.”

Above: The center table came from a movie prop house sale in Hollywood.

Below: Michael matched the entry door green paint to the William Platner occasional chairs covered in their original textured wool from the living room.

The outdoor alfresco dining area features iron garden furniture designed by Billy Haines.

Michael designed the entry knobs to the master bedroom from glass balls and brass fittings. All interior doors are painted jet black lacquer to match Berman’s 1964 Oldsmobile Starfire and contrast the crisp white walls.

The chow tables came from the estate of Ginger Rogers, a typical weekend acquisition in Palm Springs. Berman’s favorite go-to comfort chair, the Eames Lounge, floats in the master bedroom covered in white leather.

mod-mood Interiors Editor Mike Ragan

While the iconic modernism style has never left us, it is enjoying a resurgence to a whole new generation of design savvy collectors. The definition of Mod is bold, clean and colorful.

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Beginning in the years post World War II, a shift in design brought us the clean lines and open spaces of what we recognize as Mid-Century Modern. Pioneers of this movement include Richard Neutra, Mies van der Rohe and George Nelson. Floor to ceiling windows, the use of metal and wood, and creating an open floor plan were a new and innovative perspective. Charles and Ray Eames addressed the practical needs of ordinary people, providing pieces that were functional and fun.

You can now find Mid-Century Modern inspired furniture and accessories both new and vintage at every price point. Try mixing a piece or two with your existing dĂŠcor and be prepared to smile.

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1. George Nelson Ball Clock 2. Achille and Pier Giacomo Arco Floor Lamp 3. Arne Vodder Credenza 4. George Nelson Platform Bench 5. George Nelson Pedestal Stool 6. Eames House Bird

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Sunsational

Citrus Beauty Editor Jessica McCafferty

Antioxidant-rich powerhouses like grapefruits, oranges and lemons not only offer an oh-so-zesty, fresh scent, but boast amazing beauty benefits to boot.

Thanks to citrus superstar ingredients like Vitamin C, you can exfoliate, brighten and reenergize your skin for a healthy, summer glow from head to toe.

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Miss Spa Vitamin C Boost Bubble Peeling Pad $9.99 from miss-spa.com

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Vitabrid C12 Vitamin C FACE Brightening Powder $60 from Amazon.com

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Shea Terra Organics Moroccan Orange Blossom Beauty Water $16 from sheaterraorganics.com

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Sirius Ultra Dewy Skin Cream with Neroli and Blood Orange $228 from baszicare.com cvlux.com @cv_luxury

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Hampton Sun® Age-Defying SPF 50 Mineral Crème $52 from HamptonSuncare.com

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Farmacy Lip Bloom in Citrus Lemongrass $16.50 from farmacybeauty.com

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Decléor 1000 Grain Body Exfoliator with Grapefruit Essential Oil $34 from beautebooty.com

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Moroccan Elixir REJUVENATE Energizing Body Oil with Pink Grapefruit and Tangerine - $25 from moroccanelixir.com

JAQUA Bath and Body Lemon Drop Whipped SugarCream Scrub $28 from jaquabathandbody.com

Better Skin Lava Magik Cleanser - Scrub - Mask in Fresh Orange $32 from thebetterskinco.com

12 Weleda Citrus Hydrating Body Lotion $16.50 from usa.weleda.com

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Kneipp Orange Blossom & Jojoba Shower Foam in Kissed Awake $16 from kneipp.com

10 Pinrose Sun Saint Eau De Parfum $65 from Pinrose.com

Q

Dancing

ueen

Features Editor Andrea Towers Photographer John Russo Location The London West Hollywood At Beverly Hills Photographer Assistants Jackie Brutchy, Jason Bush, Tas Limur and Justin Miller Stylist Jen Rade Hair Steven Berg Makeup Joanne McCarthy

Dress Ramy Brook Necklaces Marco Bicego Earrings Marco Bicego Ring Lafonn Ring Open Hearts by Jane Seymour Collection

CARRIE ANN INABA IS A PHILANTHROPIST. AND A SINGER. AND A DANCER. AND A CHOREOGRAPHER. AND AN ACTRESS. AND A JUDGE ON THE POPULAR, LONG-RUNNING ABC TELEVISION SERIES DANCING WITH THE STARS. AND SHE RUNS A FOUNDATION FOR RESCUE ANIMALS CALLED THE CARRIE ANN INABA ANIMAL PROJECT. She’s toured with the great Madonna on her 1993 Girlie Show World Tour, she’s been a part of iconic films such as Austin Powers In Goldmember, and she was an original Fly Girl on the sketch comedy series, In Living Color.

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Despite all that, she’s got a laundry list of things she still wants to do—in fact, she’s quick to let me know, “I’m only halfway through my bucket list.”

“I know that I would like to produce a live show in Vegas,” she tells me from her home in California, where she’s in the middle of finishing up Season 24 of Dancing With The Stars. “And I also want to continue to host daytime, because I like talking about normal things and life’s problems. I love the power of talk; when you talk about things and when you bring them to light, even if it’s an embarrassing thing—like as I get older, I’ve gained weight, and the way you cope with that is to talk about it,” reveals Inaba. “It’s interesting, the feedback you get, because we’re all kind of struggling with something and not quite sure what we’re doing, and we’re all doing the best we can. And I think it’s really important to share with each other what we learn, because we all do different things and have different interests.”

After speaking to Inaba for five minutes, I’ve already decided I want her to be my life coach, or at least my spirit animal. The practice of “sharing what you learn” has become a mantra of sorts for Inaba, who recounts her days of touring with Madonna as some of the most formative experiences of her life, both as a performer and as a woman.

“For me, it was the golden star on the bucket list,” says Inaba. “I wanted to tour with Madonna.” Inaba got her wish, and also a little more than she bargained for. “She chose me to do this opening number where I came down a 50-foot pole, and I had to shave my head,” Inaba recounts. “It was like a combination of Cirque du Soleil and a stripper, and it was so far from anything I had done before. And that was so powerful, because I didn’t know I could do it. But she looked at me and thought ‘that’s what I want you to do,’ and so in the three months of training, I had to learn how to do aerial skills.”

Inaba recounts training every day from five in the morning until eight, before having regular rehearsals that went until nine at night. Given that Madonna didn’t let her dancers off easy (Inaba admits the singer would dock one hundred dollars off their pay for every minute they were late), it’s no surprise that the lessons she learned have carried over into today, where’s she’s the one people are looking up to. “Madonna taught us how to be strong, she taught us our values on stage, and she challenged you as an artist,” says Inaba, adding that the largerthan-life star being so involved in her dancers’ performances, “made me realize that to build her career and maintain her career, you have to be that hands-on all the time. She brought out the very best in all of us by frankly telling us what she saw from her point of view as an experienced professional, and I learned so much and I gained a lot of courage.”

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Inaba was born and raised in Honolulu, where she spent most of her early years before migrating to the west coast for college. She started her career as a singer in Japan, releasing three singles, but it was her dancing that made American audiences take notice of her. And it’s no secret that being on the other side of the fence for so long has made her invaluable when it comes to sitting on the judging panel of Dancing With The Stars, especially because couples dancing, as Inaba notes, “brings a whole other level to any kind of performance. Having to be in a couples situation as you’re dancing is so much more challenging than anything. And I have so much compassion for them. I also know the rewards so well, that I look at my job as a judge and as more of a coach for the panel. Because really, all the judging I give is also filled with constructive comments to help them grow, and to look at themselves honestly. It’s really not so far from coaching when I’m judging.”

When I mention that I love watching Dancing With The Stars because I was a former ice skater who could understand the level of training that went into each performance, Inaba makes my day by telling me I would most likely succeed on the program. “Skaters do well on our show because they know their articulation in the foot is so important in ballroom dancing; if you’re going to be placed on the inside of the foot or the outside of the foot, if you’re going to pronate … all of those nuances of the feet make ballroom dancing so spectacular,” she explains. Still, as fun as it is to see people come into the competition who have a little bit of experience, one of Inaba’s favorite things is being surprised by contestants with backgrounds that might not lend themselves to dancing at all.

“Especially this year, I had the biggest thrill of reading a roster of who’s going to be competing,” reveals Inaba. (Just like the fans, the judges don’t know who the competitors are before the official announcement happens). “I’ve been through 24 seasons, and you think that I wouldn’t be surprised at any point—but just like everyone else, there were some fun people I was really excited and looking forward to seeing, like Charo and Mr. T. And then, you know, there’s some people that I see on the roster like Bonner Bolton: I didn’t know who he was, I’d never heard of him, but he turned out to be somebody who made it through week eight in the competition. And it was a really wonderful story … he had to fight a back injury, he came so far and had a beautiful, natural elegance that we did not see in too many other people.”

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So, out of 24 seasons, who still remains on Inaba’s Dancing wish list?

Fashion model Chrissy Teigen (“I think she’d be so much fun,” Inaba gushes), figure skater Johnny Weir, model Ashley Graham, basketball star Michael Jordan, football quarterback Terry Bradshaw, and boxer Manny Pacquiao. “I don’t know what his dance background is, but with his boxing and dancing there is a connection … I have an eclectic list,” she finishes with a laugh.

How does she spend the small amount of downtime she has? “I have a bevy of animals—3 rescue dogs and 3 rescue cats, so our house is filled with little fur balls and other fur balls of love,” she says. “I love to be at home with the animals, because animals are so healing and nurturing, and they’re just the most rewarding.”

And before I completely commit to making Inaba my life coach of sorts, I have to ask her some wisdom: namely, what would she tell herself ten years ago?

“Oh, don’t dance so hard,” Inaba decides, after mulling over the question. “Slow down, because I think I worked so hard when I was younger that I burned myself out. But now I enjoy going a little slower and keeping an even pace in my life.” That pace extends to some sage advice that she’s picked up along the way during her successful, storied, ongoing career.

“I’ve found that you have to put in the work to be ready for the next opportunity that comes to you, but usually, the universe brings you opportunities, so you don’t have to go searching for them all the time,” says Inaba. “If you do the work, and you’re prepared when the opportunity comes to you, it’s all going to work out fine. A lot of people spend so much time chasing opportunities that then they are not ready, and I think it’s really important to make sure that as a human being and as a performer—in any aspect of life—that you do the work, that you know your business, that you know what it is you’re pursuing and all that comes with it.”

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In the

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What is something you would recommend every bride to do before meeting with her wedding planner?

Describe the KJ Events method, and how does that separate you from your competitors?

As a young girl, when I would dream of my future husband I would think of the things I would hope he would be. As a teenager I was challenged by a mentor to make an “A” list and “B” list of things I desired in a husband. I recommend all my clients to do the same, make an “A” list and a “B” list of the things you desire for your wedding day. “A” list is things you can’t live without, deal breakers. The “B” list things matter, too; they are the things that are fun to have but you could live without. I have my brides and grooms do this as a couple, to collaborate on a day designed for them. This helps brides keep their overall goal in mind when looking at design and budgets.

Kimberly Joy is my name. It was important for me to use my name for my business because it is highly personal. My desire is for a personal relationship with each client, to find out details about their love story, things they enjoy as a couple and to highlight those throughout their day and incorporate them in their wedding design. A wedding should be uniquely you, down to the very last detail. I feel I have achieved this relational goal, as I remain friends with most of my clients who become returning customers. So often being a Wedding Coordinator is more than event design; it is walking a very personal journey with a bride and groom. I am honored to get to walk that journey with my clients, who become friends.

What three trends do you see for brides currently?

Dessert Alternatives: I have never been much of a cake fan; don't get me wrong, I love a good-looking wedding cake and the tradition of serving one another your first meal. However, if ordering dessert at a restaurant, cake wouldn't be my selection. I love that brides and grooms can pick something they actually like to eat. Like donuts, crème brulée, pie, ice cream, and cotton candy. You can have your cake and eat it too, no pun intended!

Greenery: Pantone's color of the year could not be more spot on. Brides are constantly asking for greenery to be incorporated into their designs. From dusty hues of eucalyptus to bright modern textures of ferns, greenery has taken the spotlight in floral design recently. Some brides opt for bouquets of only greenery for a more organic aesthetic.

Don’t Fear Pattern: I am by nature a pattern mixer; I like incorporating botanicals or lace with stripes and straight lines. So I personally LOVE that brides are becoming less afraid of pattern. I recently had a bride select linen with peacocks on it for cocktail hour; it could not have made my designer heart happier. Tone on tone linens are a safe place to incorporate pattern, or make a table stand out with patterned linen.

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What is the one thing that every bride should do? The one item to splurge on ...

Splurge on a wedding planner! All brides, grooms and mothers of the brides want to enjoy a stress free wedding day. Consider hiring an experienced wedding planner. Weddings take a long time to plan, maybe you have a busy life and want to hand over the reins, or maybe you want to be part of the entire process but want someone to walk it with you. Consider the wedding planner your new best friend. Wedding planners can help you not only create a detailed timeline and budget but hopefully help you stick to it. They are able to offer you knowledge into the best vendors in your area to bring your wedding design to life. Also, don’t forget about lighting! Ambient lighting creates a warm and vibrant atmosphere. It sets a mood for the type of party you want to create.

And finally, pay attention to the details. Cute attire to get ready in, embossed cocktail napkins, bathroom hospitality baskets, creative favors and signage.

The details matter and are noticed by your guests.

ADVERTORIAL

i ABOUT KIMBERLY JOY Kim Rocca, a Valley native, has been creating unique and special moments for others most of her life. Her passion for events was birthed during her adolescence, and it was then that she began to hone her skill. Since officially launching her career in 2014, Kim has become known for her corporate events and luxurious wedding designs, and has been nationally published in various blogs including Green Wedding Shoes. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find Kim—a city girl gone country—either planning your next event or living the ranch life with her husband, Nick, and young son, Mack.

CONNECT Visit Kim’s site at: www.kj-events.com Kim@kj-events.com PHONE 559-916-3020 FOLLOW @kimberlyjoyevents

Photo Credits Bergeen Photography MarkJanzenPhotography.com Ellie Koleen Photography Kilean Hernandez Don Dizon

I

DO...

MY WAY Lifestyle Editor Michelle Peranich Photographer Michael Brannigan

cvlux.com @cv_luxury

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I

know that for some, an extravagant wedding witnessed by 200 of their closest friends is their dream come true, and for others just the thought of it gives them anxiety.

When you think about the most important part of every nuptial celebration, wedding themes should be a general guideline that you can choose to follow in its entirety or use as an inspiration for your own original plan. While there is something to be said for tradition, your wedding should be a beautiful celebration of you and the one you love.

If you’re like me and not into the whole “white gown” thing, who cares?

I believe the ceremony not only sets the tone for your special day, but is the absolute best part of any wedding. Following in the footsteps of generations, the exchange of vows and all your emotional family members and friends make it one of the most special moments of your life. My advice for the ceremony is to remember to slow down … this is the time to take it all in. These are the memories you want to last a lifetime (and make sure your photographer knows this!).

Here are a few of my favorite unconventional wedding ceremony ideas …

• • • • • • •

• •

•

Face your guests during the wedding vows.

Arrange for your guests to sit or stand in a circle around you during your vows.

Have both parents walk you down the aisle.

Have an uneven number of attendants.

Have a “man of honor,” instead of a maid of honor.

Have the groom choose a “best woman.”

Instead of attendants, have your parents, your children (if this applies), siblings and any spouses (if this applies) stand with you at the altar.

Dress your flower girl in a bright colored dress.

Tie a fisherman’s knot for your unity ceremony … it’s the strongest knot, and will only get tighter with pressure. It also makes for a great keepsake.

Have a “ring warming” ceremony to take the ring exchange one step further. Early in the ceremony, the rings are tied together and passed around to the guests who imbue the rings with a silent prayer or blessing for the couple when the rings reach them. By the time the bride and groom exchange the rings, they are filled with the warmth and love of their family and friends.

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It matters not who you love, where you love or how you love, it matters only that you love.

-John Lennon

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The best advice I could give a couple planning their wedding is to, “be your own authentic selves and stay romantic!” Allow your mind to wander and dream about what this day will look and feel like. Where do you see it? Who do you see there?

What time of the year is it? Is it formal, laid back, fun or serious?

This would be the time to discuss your vision and decide what’s most important to the two of you.

Now you’re at the starting point for a meaningful and authentic day, as well as focusing all your decisions moving forward.

There are many accepted (and expected) traditions that surround weddings, but who says you can’t be the next “tradition setter” for your family? If you don’t see yourself in a white dress … wear any color you want. If you don’t see yourself walking down an aisle … don’t have one. Do it … your way!

Here are a few of my favorite unconventional reception ideas …

• • • •

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Rather than a guest book, have guests sign Jenga blocks! It will make a great game to play for years to come.

Create a handwritten note in each place card (“Richard, thanks for flying in from Colorado!

Glad you’re here today!”).

Instead of a bouquet toss, toast the woman who has had the greatest impact on your life, then hand her your bouquet as a tribute.

For a fresh twist on the hot photo booth trend, set up a “Video Confessional Booth.”

Rent a video booth where guests can record a quick on-screen message for you. Ask your videographer to edit some of the best clips into your wedding video. Then, post your other favorite video “confessions” on your wedding website and encourage guests to check them out in your thank-you notes.

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When planning my wedding day schedule, I knew I wanted toasts to be happening on the mountain top during the “Golden Hour,” that brief window of time before sunset when everything is glazed in that rich, warm, yellow light when the sun lies between the horizon and 6 degrees above … or more accurately accounts for the speed of the transition from day to night around the world at different times of the year.

I would definitely encourage you to do a fun wedding dance—it not only is a highlight of the night for family and friends, but the weekly dance lessons will be the best time spent having fun together and relaxing as you get closer to the wedding day.

A wedding timeline should be just a guideline … nothing is set in stone. Other than making sure your food gets served while it’s hot and fresh, it’s always best to follow the timeline as it feels appropriate in the moment. Things ALWAYS take longer than you think they will. If you overestimate how long everything will take you’ll probably be right on schedule.

There are a multitude of amazingly talented and creative vendors just waiting to work with you so being clear from the beginning about what you want to achieve will make your search so much easier. Pick vendors whose work you love, but more importantly, who you love as people. They will be your biggest support system on your big day. Perhaps most importantly, remember that after this day is over, your wedding pictures are what you will have left of your day, so find a photographer that can bring your vision to life.

The planning will all be worth it. Remember, be happy! Weddings are fun, but even more so when it’s your own.

ENDLESS

Features Editor Asher Corey Photographer Reverie Photo & Films Ceremony Location Maria Lanakila Catholic Church Reception Location Hyatt Regency Maui Date April 30, 2016 Total Guests 120

LOVE

O

n August 3rd, 2014, Rae Pardini and Michael Matson met at a wedding, where they immediately hit it off and literally danced the night away.

“We’ve been inseparable ever since!” Rae laughs.

The irony is that several months prior, Rae and Michael’s parents attempted to set the two up on a date, but the couple felt silly about their parents playing matchmakers, so they politely declined. But fate intervened and they connected at their friends’ wedding, proving timing really is everything.

The next year and eight months saw Rae and Michael having one romantic adventure after another and building unforgettable memories together: going on dates, spending time with one another’s families, getting to know one another’s friends and traveling together. Fittingly, the couple said their first “I love you” on Valentine’s Day. Michael proposed to Rae on April 30, 2015 at “the happiest place on earth,” Disneyland. “It was a truly magical day,” remembers Rae, “and Michael’s family was there to share in the special moment, catching the whole thing on video.” Unbeknownst to Michael, Rae was surprising him two days later with a 30th birthday party in Los Angeles, and had invited close friends and family.

The couple spent the next year planning their wedding. “We both love Hawaii and had vacationed there growing up,” Rae explains, “and we both come from large families and have lots of friends. So we knew we’d either have to host a huge wedding in Fresno or get away with a more intimate wedding at a destination location. While it was a very difficult decision to make, as we didn’t want to exclude friends or family, we also wanted to give our guests the opportunity to make a vacation out of the experience. And they sure did!”

Exactly one year from their engagement, and on their niece Adriana’s second birthday, Rae and Michael’s love story continued when they tied the knot in an intimate wedding ceremony and reception in beautiful Maui, Hawaii.

Rae and Michael wanted to tie in some local Hawaiian elements into their wedding weekend, beginning with the day before the wedding.

“Our families did a traditional lei ceremony blessing on the beach for [my triplet brother, JW] and all of our loved ones that have passed, tossing our Hawaiian lei’s into the ocean after remembrances and prayer,” remembers Rae. The Hawaiian theme was carried into several other aspects of the wedding by including Hawaiian food on the 5-course reception menu, incorporating lush Protea and orchids into the floral designs, and planning an authentic Hawaiian “Bring in the Night” ceremony with a conch shell blowing before the reception.

As Rae and Michael planned their special day, they had several priorities. “We knew we wanted to accommodate our guests, have great food, beautiful flowers, get married in a Catholic church and have good dancing music,” Rae says. “I also wanted to do a spin on a traditional photo booth, so we had Reverie bring equipment for a slo-mo video booth. It was hilarious!”

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The ceremony was traditional but intimate, held at the picturesque Maria Lanakila Catholic Church. Rae adds that “an amazing bonus,” was having Father Michael Burchfield from Fresno’s St. Therese conduct the ceremony. Simple but elegant floral designs filled the church and were carried by Rae, her bridesmaids (dressed in soft floral dresses) and her co-maids-of-honor (and sisters), Alicia Fisher and Tara Wagner, who wore a lovely blush pink. The groom wore a sharp vibrant blue suit, and his groomsmen and cobest-men, Trevor Clark and Chris Gutilla Jr., wore suits in a lighter shade of blue.

The bride wore an exquisite dress designed by Lazaro. “I wanted something that fit the Hawaiian setting: nothing too formal or too casual,” Rae explains. “The style was actually not something I ever thought I’d pick for myself. After shopping with my grandma, mom and sisters, I walked out in the gown I ended up choosing, and we all looked at each other and immediately started crying. That’s when we know it was ‘the one.’ I felt so comfortable, sexy and pretty in that dress.”

The outdoor reception, held at Maui’s Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa, had a spectacular ocean view. The tables were arranged in a square formation, with the dance floor in the center, making the reception even more intimate. The luscious tablescapes included Hawaiian floral designs, greenery, gold votives and pineapples. Each chair was festooned with a floral swag.

“Everything about the reception was perfect,” remembers Rae, “but there was one moment that stands out in my mind where I felt this almost unspeakable happiness. In that moment, surrounded by our loved-ones, I was overwhelmed with my love for Michael, and his love for me, and our love for our family and friends. All of our guests were dancing, drinking, or at the slo-mo video booth, and Michael and I both went back to our seats at our table and just overlooked it all. Took it all in. Most all of our loved ones in paradise. It doesn’t get much better than that. The moment didn’t last very long, as we were soon pulled for pictures and dancing. But I’ll never forget it.”

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H

olly Furtado and Adam Contreras grew up in the rural town of Kerman, California, and Holly admits that she had a crush on her big brother’s friend, Adam, even though she was just the “little sister.”

They wouldn’t meet again until after they each moved to different parts of the state for college (he to San Francisco, and she to Chico), and then moved back again. A few more years went by before Holly asked her brother about Adam, and then reached out to him, but the two still didn’t begin dating until Adam had asked Holly’s brother for his permission. With his blessing, Holly and Adam started dating, and their love story began.

A Valentine’s Day trip to Monterey led to a happily-unexpected surprise proposal on a little bench overlooking the beauty of Big Sur, and the two began to plan their lives together, as a well as a wedding that would be a unique expression of the couple.

During their courtship, Holly and Adam visited some of Adam’s favorite places in San Francisco, so they knew almost immediately that they wanted their wedding to take place there, in some of the couple’s favorite spots.

Every bride has ideas about how her future wedding will be, but Holly says, “We both have similar tastes, so when I told him what I envisioned, Adam absolutely agreed.”

Their vision? “Elegant, timeless and not trendy,” Holly explains. “The colors were black and gold with just a hint of pink, only in the flowers.”

Holly found her wedding dress, a Casablanca design, at Novella Bridal, but she laughingly says that “it was the complete opposite of what I was looking for!” She surprised her mom, Adam’s mom, her aunt and maid-of-honor by coming out of the dressing room in something she had prepared them she wouldn’t want: simple, no beading or lace, strapless and, of course, elegant. When Holly saw herself in the mirror, she had that moment every bride hopes to have when she tries on “the” gown.

She remembers immediately knowing, “This is it!” Holly also picked out a beautiful cathedral-length veil because of the size of the church.

The wedding took place on March 25, 2017, and the couple was married in the iconic Grace Cathedral in San Francisco at 4:00 in the afternoon. The ceremony was followed by a cocktail hour and reception at the elegant Fairmont Hotel.

“We picked those locations because we visited them while we were dating, and both loved them,” Holly explains.

In spite of the elegance of both the church and the reception venue, Holly and Adam didn’t want it feel “stuffy,” and agreed that they wanted their wedding to be fun and memorable for their family and closest friends. The guest list was a small and intimate 200, since Holly and Adam wanted to be able to relate to everyone on their wedding day. They both knew each guest personally, and since the couple grew up in the same small town, Holly says their wedding “felt like a family reunion!”

“We wanted something different,” Holly explains of their choice of the Fairmont Hotel for the reception, “and I knew I wanted an indoor venue.” The reception, fittingly, took place in the “Gold Room” of the hotel, featuring a gorgeous balcony from which Holly enjoyed tossing her bouquet. “We added some important details to ‘loosen it up,’” Holly recalls. “Music was a big deal to both of us and we used a vendor from Fresno who we already loved.” But they didn’t stop there. Each guest was given a bracelet, not realizing it was an LED bracelet that would not just light up on the dance floor, but sync with the beat of the music, and then turn solid purple when there was something for them to participate in, such as the cake cutting.

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When asked about particularly poignant moments of their wedding day, Holly recalls several things. She loved the speeches Adam’s father, as well as her own father, made at the reception. “They were very sweet,” she says. In addition, she describes the very personal way she carried out the “something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue” tradition. Holly’s dress was her “something new,” she carried a handkerchief embroidered in blue and she borrowed her mother original wedding ring (Holly’s mom now has an “upgrade”). And her something old?

“I tied a charm that belonged to my maternal grandmother to my bridal bouquet,” Holly explains. “My grandmother, ‘Maga,’ gifted it to me on my 16th birthday.” It was already a beloved treasure to Holly, but became something even more special because Holly’s grandmother passed away just two weeks before Holly and Adam’s wedding.

When asked about her favorite moments of the special day, Holly first talks about walking into the reception area with Adam before the guests arrived. “We loved having some time to ourselves to just take it all in,” she recalls. Another special moment was doing a “first look” with her dad. “We are very close, so it was an especially tender moment for the two of us,” Holly remembers. She laughingly describes another favorite element of the reception: “I also love donuts, so we had a chef come prepare mini-donuts right there in the room during the reception. It made the entire room smell amazing!”

Adam loved that they surprised their guests with a few “signature drinks,” which included edible gold flakes, and were named after their mothers instead of “his and her” drinks.

“Our wedding was exactly what we wanted,” Holly says. “Of course it was our wedding, but we wanted our guests to have a good time, as well.”

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