Sub Zero Ice Cream

What is liquid nitrogen ice cream? Rapidly rising back into popularity, SubZero Nitrogen Ice Cream Catering creates the best ice cream made with LN2 (liquid nitrogen).

It’s an easy 4-step process that is fun to watch, but also mess-free ice cream experience at any event. And you can get SubZero to cater YOUR event too. If you want a simple and delicious way for your event to be the star of the show, you can’t go wrong with the Subzero Nitrogen Ice Cream Bar!

When you cater SubZero at your event, here’s what you get:

• Creamy, Fresh, Decadent Ice Cream

• 5 yummy flavors and toppings of ice cream, made fresh on site for any upcoming event

• And a fun ice cream bar show with custom created flavors to choose from!

Check out the Menu!

Email for event inquiries subzeroicecreamcatering@gmail.com

5 Proposal Ideas You Can Use

Planning a Proposal?

Did you know about Jamison Events helps coordinate proposals? For the couple looking for an extra special and stress free experience, Jamison Events will create a custom plan just for you!

Chances are, you’re pretty nervous to propose to your significant other, so…

Here’s some tips to help ease your nerves

• One thing we see Couples do is try to go over the top for the proposal. While the element of surprise is essential with proposals, this will not only create stress but more nerves. Instead of trying to be over the top, aim for something meaningful you both will never forget! 

• Have a plan and stick to it. Organizing the day/experience ahead of time will ensure a smoother experience than just trying to make it happen. 

• Be you and go with the flow. Your significant other may already be speculating the engagement or they could be completely shocked, but no matter what, your day will be incredible!

photo: Chelsea Reece

Here are 5 ideas for your big proposal + we can help

1. Recreate your first date: We love this simple, yet romantic moment. Enjoy dinner together, then surprise them with a perfectly planned spot that’s decorated for the two of you. This is when you pop the question! 

2. A Perfect Picnic: Plan a catered or intimate picnic on the beach, garden or park. This romantic day can be filled with a pretty table setup, champagne and soft live music. 

3. Go wine tasting: Surprise your SO with a fun day tasting wine. On your second stop (reminder not to be too tipsy!) arrange to have a winery spot set-up just for the two of you! 

4. Incorporate LIVE music: IF you’ve seen the Bachelor/Bachelorette, you know those dates with live musicians playing in the background? Just like that! Hiring a local live band, or even a up-and-coming artist is the perfect way to serenade your significant other into saying YES!

5. Organize a rooftop proposal: If you’re lucky enough find a rooftop (or have a friend that you know with a rooftop) location with a killer view, and dress up the space with florals, a neon sign, or other details. Go up to the rooftop tp catch a view of the sunset and then get down on one knee. This idea is romantic, intimate, and budget friendly!

Cred: Unknown/Pinterest

What Not to Forget!

• Background music will help set the mood.

• Beautiful views or arranged florals help create ambiance.

• Hire someone to capture the moment. Whether it’s a hidden photographer or a videographer that “happens” to be there, hiring a professional will ensure you’ll have the absolute most beautiful photos of that moment. 

Cred: @thistleandplume

 We want to wish you good luck on your proposal and hopefully a congratulations on your engagement! AND if now you’re onto wedding planning, you can look into hiring Jamison Events.

Advice on Your Christmas Themed Wedding

Cred: KeLi Photography

Hey Christmas lovers and fanatics ! If you met your significant other during the holidays, have special traditions, or have family members who love Christmas, then there may be a Christmas themed wedding in your future!

A holiday wedding date is a big deal!

Lucky for you, if you choose this wedding theme, your wedding will be in the off season! That’s normally December-February for wedding vendors. Hot tip: Most venues and vendors can get booked up during the holiday season due to holiday parties. Make sure to book early to ensure their availability. 

Speaking of availability…

Ask your family. Anytime you plan a wedding around a holiday, make sure to check with family and closest friends to you about the dates to ensure they are available and/or in town.

As you think of your guests, accommodate all. Remember some guests may or may not celebrate the holidays, so by incorporating a menorah or sticking to the theme of winter, will help ensure no one is left out.

Cred: Pawel Bebenca Photography

When Looking for Venues…

Pick an indoor or tented (with heaters) space. Whether you're getting married in SoCal or in New York, it can often get cold during Christmas. Make sure you pick a venue that will be comfortable for everyone.

Ask your venue if they decorate. Some venues already have decor that they put up, such as garland and xmas trees. This will save you money!

When Planning your Timeline...

Remember sunset is early in December. So, account for the earlier sundown time with an earlier ceremony start time. The goal is always that cocktail hour is ending when sunset is happening to ensure that perfect golden hour time for your photos. 

Cred: Megan Morales Photography

When Finding Your Vendors…

With winter being an off-season for weddings, there aren’t as many, but remember that vendors tend to be difficult to get a hold of during the holiday season. Most vendors take time off, during the holidays so plan and prepare early to ensure you don’t have last minute issues or questions. 

When Designing Your Wedding…

Pick one main color. Christmas tends to get really loud on the color schemes; ensure your aesthetic speaks of a wedding and not a Christmas party. Make sure to choose one color and build on that color subtly opposed to making it look like Christmas threw up. 

When guests arrive there’s a good chance they have on big jackets. Having a coat check with an attendant is a nice touch! And greet guests with a warm cup of spiked cider or champagne with cranberries for cocktail hour and add a coat check at the door.

We recommend that you really play into the cozy theme with a hot cocoa bar, eggnog, and fluffy blankets around a fire. Add upbeat or classical Christmas music to be played during cocktail hour and dinner. For a unique touch, have your florist use fragrant cinnamon or pine in your centerpieces to fill the room up with yummy Christmas smells. 

One fun entertainment idea I love for any winter wedding is adding an igloo photo booth. It’s not really an igloo but looks like it!

Cred: Madalynn Young Photography

How to Plan a Small or Intimate Wedding

Let’s face it, these past couple of years have been crazy, and although intimate and micro weddings have always been popular, they have become increasingly popular during and after the pandemic.

We want to help all couples out there who are planning their big day, no matter how big or small the event because your wedding should be the MOST magical and special day ever! So, if you know someone who needs help planning their micro wedding or intimate event send them this blog for advice.

First

Start with a budget: Even with a smaller wedding, there’s still a budget to consider. List all of your wants and needs on paper to ensure you’re considering each important detail into your budget.

Second

Make a guest list: An intimate wedding typically consists of your immediate/closest friends and family. Don’t talk about your wedding with those who aren't invited. The same goes for those who are invited.

Third

Focus on the venue: The world is literally your oyster when it comes to planning a smaller wedding. From a Tuscan Elopement in Italy, to saying “I do” on top of a cliff in the Grand Canyon, there’s endless venues to host your intimate wedding!

**Side tip about venues: Be open with your dates because most venues have a food and beverage minimum on Saturdays and Sundays. A smaller wedding is more affordable on a weekday!

Don’t rush the planning!

Oftentimes, many couples who are interested in a smaller affair opt for a smaller planning window too, but I would advise against this. We highly recommend allowing yourself several months. Slowing down the wedding planning process will ensure you’re able to focus on the day without feeling like you jumped right into it.

Customize your day!

With a smaller wedding, you most likely can spurge a little more on the custom aspects of your day. From elaborate plated dinners to featuring farm table dishes, a band who plays your favorite music or  custom created desserts, think about how you can make this special day focused on the two of you.

Have a very personal Ceremony

All wedding ceremonies are meaningful, but I mean REALLY make it deep and personal. From personal vows to getting those who have attended involved, an intimate wedding really puts the Couple in the center of the spotlight. Make it a personal Ceremony that everyone will truly remember and cherish.

Plan more than one day events!

It doesnt have to be one day… plan fun, extra outings. For example, if you’re having a wedding in the Grand Tetons, why not plan a mountain horseback ride the day prior for your attending guests. Or float down a lazy river in Tahoe. Get the most from the memories made on during your stay.

From the bottom of our hearts, we hope you have the BEST wedding day ever! And if you haven’t fallen in love with us yet, check out our Instagram + Pinterest @jamisonevents.

5 Ways to Warm Up Your Fall or Winter Wedding

If you’re D R E A M I N G of a magical winter wonderland wedding or a woodsy, fall inspired wedding; what do you do about the cold weather? When you’re planning a wedding in the off season (November - March), those unpermitted weather conditions are a bigger challenge to your wedding planning.

And if you’re like most brides, of course want your big day to be PERFECT, so we compiled a list of 5 ways to keep your guests, but more importantly YOU and your groom warm on your big day!

1. Set Expectations

Make extra sure to set expectations with your guests, which means to ensure they will dress correctly for the event. An easy, no pressure way to do this is through your wedding website! For example, let your guests know if there will be a lot of outdoor time and what the expected average temperature will be at the location of your event when it’s happening.

Photo by JuneBugWeddings

2. Hot drinks and warm food options

Hot Coffee/Cocoa/Cider Station -

• Offer a fun drink station with a barista who can custom create coffees for your guests. 

  • **very often coffee runs out on cooler days. Make sure your venue is prepared if they have a coffee station

  • **spice it up with a spiked liquor addition

Hot Plate Options -

• Meals include anything: baked, roasted, grilled. etc. such as meats, pastas, soups, rice dishes, warm vegetables, etc.

3. Outdoor heaters or a fireplace

A warm fireplace or multiple outdoor heaters for guests are sure to keep your wedding warm! Remember, these will be in your photos so we highly recommend renting options that are in good condition and pretty to look at. 

Also, don't skimp on the heaters if you want guests to stay all night. Use 1 heater per table and add a few for the cocktail area and at the bar for super colder nights. 

4. Cozy fashion!

Options:

• Robes

• Coats

• Anything fluffy faux fur

• Leggings under long dress

• Wraps & shawls

• Blankets

Offer your guests a warm option for them to take home as a favor. Place on a table in a large basket or place one at each seat. 

For yourself, have a cozy jacket or shawl that you wear as an accent piece to stay warm. We always love monogrammed jackets (like in the first photo we showed!)

5.  Tenting or Indoor spaces/venues

Party tents can often be used as summertime items because they allow us to stay cool in the shade and protect us from harmful UV rays, however they are great for cold weather too!

Heating a party tent is as simple as using tent heaters—specialized space heaters designed for safely keeping your party tent warm—and tent sidewalls, which keep the warmth in. A party tent heater can be used inside the tent, or just outside the tent with the addition of a diffuser.

Photo by Love & Lavender

Wedding Budgeting 101 - with Jamison Events

Does saving money and creating your wedding budget get you stressed out? If you’re engaged, newly engaged, or expecting to be engaged soon, this wedding budgeting 101 advice will surely put you at ease.

One of the first steps in wedding planning will be creating your budget, and this will be an ongoing process as you find each of the vendors for your wedding, kind of like slowly  placing puzzle pieces that will eventually create a beautiful picture. 

When you work with Jamison Events- Step one is to draw up your guest list. Step two is to establish your budget. 

• Start going over your savings and figure out what you can realistically contribute to the wedding fund without breaking the bank!

• You’ll want to find a detailed way to keep track of what you’re spending for each vendor.

If spreadsheets are your thing, you’ll want to make one for three stages; your estimated cost of vendors (research stage), an inquiry of costs from vendors (proposal stage), and then the final amount (total cost stage). 

• Leave a bubble for possible surprise costs; such as a set-up/clean up fee, vendor transportation/travel, etc.

• Use your credit card responsibly! Don’t put anything on credit that you can’t pay off in 30 days, or know you have the money to pay off. 

*If you do use a credit card, I suggest using one that gives you a generous cashback program. I’m always big on using cash to pay up front, since credit cards are expensive to use, but with the same rules applied from above, a % reward program on your credit card is common for Couples. 

• Remember to ask vendors how they take payments. Some only take checks or venmo, some only take credit. So, plan to have a few ways to pay! 

Let’s Talk About Wedding Budget Myths:

“Vendors charge more for a wedding than they would for a birthday party, so don’t mention “wedding” in the inquiry.”

Ok, this always makes my blood boil. For vendors, weddings have higher expectations and work. You may be the most easy going Couple on the planet, but that does not diminish the standard of work the vendor needs to accomplish. So, while weddings do tend to cost more than another type of event, the degree of work is higher too. 

“Service fees are gratuity.”

In fact, this is typically not the case. Service fees are often charged by the venue or caterer and typically go directly to the company. Gratuity is often not a part of the service fee or final bill. 

“You don’t need to add a gratuity if the vendor owns their business.” 

I always tell my Couples that gratuity is not expected but always appreciated. Whether the vendor is the owner or not, offering them a nice gift, cash or gift card truly shows appreciation for the hard work they did.

“Having a food truck will save you money.” 

While this is mostly true in regards to the overall food bill, there are many factors to consider when hiring a food truck. Who will buss tables, remove trash, set up coffee, cut the cake? Typically, when you hire a food truck you’ll also need to hire staff and bartenders to ensure the important things like trash removal is done. 

Five Thoughtful Ways to Save Money:

1. Don’t get stuck on a venue until you shop options: I always recommend looking into different types of venues. Make sure to shop different styles of venues, from country club to DIY. Really crunch the number prior to booking to ensure you understand all of the venue fees. It's not always true that bringing in your catering/staff/bar means a lower cost! 

2. Host the ceremony + reception in the same place: This will cut down on your need for a shuttle, extra vendor fees for multiple locations and longer booking fees from vendors. Typically multiple locations means you have to book your vendors for longer periods of time. 

3. Choose an off-time for your wedding (different season or a Friday/Sunday): Be open to a weekday wedding and/or an off season date because there’s a good chance most vendors will offer discounted rates. Remember- higher costs are always associated with holiday and peak seasons. 

4. Forgo an expensive live band, but don’t forgo the professionals!: It’s important to hire professionals to ensure your entire day is literally a dream. To do that, you do need to hire experienced professionals. In my experience, when Couples try to hire friends/family or newbie vendors, it ends up costing them sanity and peace. So, make sure to hire those who will ensure a smooth day and feel free to comparison shop to give yourself vendor options. 

5. DIY any paper products yourself: Address your own invitations AND to save on extra postage, have your guests RSVP on your website. 

Remember, more guests = more money! If budget is a concern I always recommend going for a smaller, more intimate event with your closest friends and family. 

Pro tip: Never assume any contributions from your loved ones, but it doesn’t hurt to ask them. Remember, that if you accept contributions a gift or thank you card is highly recommended! 

Have you seen the special Marriage or Mortgage on Netflix? 

I always watch this show in awe, because it's so interesting to see what is most important to Couples. The fact is, your budget will change and mold as you plan your big day. There may be certain areas that you end up spending less in or more. It’s most important that you have your dream wedding without throwing yourself into debt. You don’t need to forgo the home in lieu of Wedding, if you’re truly smart about your budget when you start planning. By setting a budget early and keeping an eye on it often, you’re preparing both of your futures for success! 

Have a Wonderful Day,

Jamison

Top 10 Things to Consider BEFORE booking your Wedding Venue

(Photo by: Lisa Lorene)

What are the two most challenging decisions you’ll make in your wedding planning process? Your Venue and Wedding Dress. And did you know that there are over 701 Venues in Ventura County alone? That number gets much higher the farther you spread your venue search.

That being said, choosing your venue can be overwhelming with the amount of choices…

Often the experience is more of a love at first sight phenomenon… You walk the venue, fall in love and MAKE it work for your budget, needs and date.

My recommendation is to slow down the process. These will help you narrow down your venue: 

• Narrow down the search online to your top 10 venues you might be interested in.

• Contact each venue and ask for availability and their packages.

• Sit down and create a realistic budget. Your Wedding Planner will help you do this! 

• Plan your guest list. How many guests will you be expecting? On average, 80% of your guest list will attend. So, make sure you are considering this when looking into venue seating. 

• Go visit 3 of those venues in a 1-3 week time frame (take notes on what you love and dont love about each).

• Ask for a full proposal of all of the fees that might be included. Catering, Rentals, Bar, Fees, etc. 

• Repeat the second and third step until you’ve seen all 10. 

• Compare your proposals and notes.

• Make a decision. Have your wedding planner look over the contract.
  

Now that you’ve gotten rid of the overwhelming amount of choices, I recommend that all of my couples ask themselves how practical their venue is.

Here are the “Top 10 things to consider BEFORE booking your Wedding Venue”:

1. Where is the Location? As they say in Real Estate “Location, Location, Location.” Couples are often attracted to venues that offer a unique vibe, but consider the venue from your guests’ perspective. Will they need to book a hotel? Will you need to book transportation? These small considerations will ensure a more comfortable and less stressful experience for your guests. 

2. How has the Inquiry Process been? I’m going to put this frankly, if the booking manager has been slow to respond, rude, or off putting...you’ll have that experience the ENTIRE time. On the other hand, if the booking manager has been kind, responsive and helpful, there’s a good chance that most everyone that works there has the same mentality. Don’t settle for a lack of customer service, because you love the venue aesthetic! 

3. What is your Budget? Will the venue keep you on budget? Often couples opt for a venue where they can bring in their own Catering, Bar, etc. However, I recommend you talk to your planner prior to making this choice. Bringing in all of your own vendors may lead to a higher budget. So truly, run the numbers to ensure the venue will stick to your budget. 

4. Are there Hidden Fees? Things like insurance, taxes, service fees, gratuities can add up. Ensure that you truly understand every fee and that it is within your budget. **Important note- MOST service fees are not considered gratuities and are taxed.** Again, make sure you totally understand the amount you will be charged. 

5. Is Transportation Required? Another big factor in choosing your venue is the parking & transportation needs. Do you need to rent a bus to get guests to the venue? Is their valet or available parking? Is parking on a busy road? 

6. Is it an Accessible Venue?  If you plan to invite an older grandparent or have a family member who is in a wheelchair, then you need to make sure your venue is wheelchair or easily accessible for those who have a hard time walking. Are their stairs, a steep incline or gravel? Make sure you consider all of the accessibility aspects prior to booking. 

7. Time of the Wedding. Does the venue require a certain in and out time? Does music have to be off at a certain time? We typically ask for about 3 hour setup time prior to the invitation time and 1-2 hours of clean-up after the event has ended. 

8. How is the Weather? What happens if it rains and your event is fully outside? Can the space be tented and what is the average cost of a tent?

9. Does the Venue Fit Your Style? I often tell my couples not to settle for style, but I’ll also remind them not to go too far out of their comfort zone as well. For example- let’s say you LOVE a modern vibe but you chose a venue that is Rustic. Will you look back and love your pictures? Will you need to bring in rentals to make the space work for your aesthetic? Does the venue look well kept and in good condition? All this will ensure your style needs are met. 

10. Will there be Multiple Weddings going on that day? Years ago, I attended a wedding as a guest and at the end of the night we were jumping on our provided bus to head back to our hotel. It was only after we left that I realized I was on the wrong bus, for the wrong wedding. While it made for a funny story for my friends, make sure you consider how you’d feel if you weren't the only wedding going on at the same time, at the same venue. 

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All things considered, you are sure to choose the perfect venue!

Check out this free checklist & venue profile below to guide you through the venue choosing process.

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How to Celebrate your Birthday in Style!

1. Throw a Huge Bash!

Pick this time of your life to really put your birthday dreams on paper and go all in. Invite all your friends, get your hair and makup fancy and do it up right with food, drinks and lots of cake! Dance the night away, have a throne, wear a crown. Really think about the party you’d want and what would make it the ultimate bash.

How to Bring your Bash to the next level…

1. An Incredible Customized Cake with Sparkler Candles

2. A Rooftop Venue or High-End Party Spot

3. Florals and Decor professionally styled

4. Photo stations to remember the night

5. A Band or Amazing DJ to ensure dancing all night long

6. Signature Drinks that reflect your taste and personality

7. Food that everyone attending will remember

8. Entertainment such as flamingo dancers or palm readers to keep things different

9. A Red Carpet with a Photo Station as guests enter

10. A Theme that really ties the entire night together

2. Hire a Driver

Unless you are a Kardashian, having a driver isn’t a normal every day thing. But for your Birthday, don’t drive! Hire a driver in a beautiful limo or blacked out Escalade to make you and your best friends feel elite all night and get you to and from safely.

3. Get Fancy with a Makeover

A serious spa day is in order for your Birthday for sure! From a full body massage to a relaxing facial. Get your nails, makeup and hair done, so you walk out of there feeling like a relaxed and stunning Million Bucks!

4. Find that Perfect Outfit

Part of really feeling great for your Birthday, is making sure your birthday frock is on point. Splurge on that little black dress and heels you’ve always wanted, or get creative with a professionally styled outfit from Nordstrom or a High End Clothing Boutique. Make sure from head to toe, you feel confident!

5. Make an Elaborate Purchase

Have you been saving up for a dream car or maybe always wanted your Living Room to be professionally designed? This is the time to give yourself a gift and know all of your well deserved hard-work, has paid off.

6. Plan a Trip

After your Birthday Bash, jet off to a tropical paradise for some serious R&R, or drive up the coast for wine tasting, fly to Europe for sight seeing and tea! Go somewhere you’ve always wanted to check off your bucket list on your Birthday week.

7. Hire Jamison Events

We will ensure your night is nothing short of incredible and everything you deserve. From Elaborate Ballroom Disco Parties to Pop Art Themed Bashes. We will take your personality and turn it into a Birthday you will love and so deserve!

Featured Vendors in the above photos-

Coordiantion by Jamison Events https://www.jamisonevents.com/

Photography by 1097 Photography https://www.instagram.com/10_97photography

Balloons by The DeLuxe Balloon Company https://www.thedeluxeballooncompany.com/

Florals and Linens by Casi Cielo https://www.casicieloweddings.com/

Venue and Catering by North Ranch Country Club https://www.northranchcc.org/

Cake by Sweet Art Bake Shop https://www.sweetartbakeshop.com/

Photobooth by Open Air Photobooth http://www.openairphotobooth.com/

Dance Floor and Lighting by Time of Your Life

Entertaiment and DJ by http://www.elitediscjockeys.com/