Wedding Poses that WON'T Make Your Groom Uncomfortable

Most grooms don’t generally ENJOY taking wedding photos, that’s a fact. Generally, I get a little stressed when I see the Groom taking photos and can tell he is uncomfortable. So, when I work with a photographer who is not only quick at capturing the perfect shot, but can also make the Groom and his Wedding Party have FUN, I feel happy.

Your Groom just wants to enjoy themselves and not feel like they need to be a GQ model all day. Show your photographer THESE images and I gurantee they will capture great moments, without the corny vibes.

The Relaxed Walk

(1)Jessica Lynn Photography, (2)Lisa Lorene Photography

Groom Fixing His Clothes/Jacket-

(1)Jessica Lynn Photography, (2)Claudia Hurtarte Photography, (3,4)Judy & Gavin Photography, (5)DeLauras Photography

Friends Relaxing-

(1) PinkBox Films, (2)Jessica Lynn Photography, (3)Judy and Gavin Photography

Groom Prep-

(1)Judy and Gavin Photography, (2)Jessica Lynn Photography, (3)Claudia Hurtarte Photography

Formal with a relaxed vibe-

(1)Jessica Lynn Photography, (2)Judy and Gavin Photography, (3)Kate Van Amringe Photography

Being Silly-

(1)Kate Van Amringe Photography, (2)Judy and Gavin Photography, (3)Michael Anthony Photography, (4)Studio 7 Photo, (5)Rebecca Theresa Photography, (6,7)Jessica Lynn Photography

Cool Guy-

(1,2)Jessica Lynn Photography, (3)Kate Van Amringe Photography, (4,5)Judy and Gavin Photography

Sock Photos-

(1)Kennedy Graham Photography, (2)Judy and Gavin Photography

Back Turned-

(1)Jessica Lynn Photography

And that’s all of them! Here’s where you can also find all of these photographers:

• Lisa Lorene Photography- https://lisalorenephotography.zenfolio.com/

• Pink Box Films- https://www.pinkboxphotography.com/

• Kennedy Graham Photography- https://www.facebook.com/kennedygrahamphotography/

• Judy and Gavin Photography- https://www.judyandgavin.com/

• Jessica Lynn Photography- https://jessicalynn-photo.com/

• Kate Van Amringe Photography- https://katevanamringe.com/

• Rebecca Theresa Photography- http://rebeccatheresa.com/

• The DeLauras Photography- https://www.thedelauras.com/

Have a Wonderful Day,

Jamison

So You’re a Bridesmaid, Now What?

I’ve seen my share of Wedding Party “types” in the last 20 years of planning weddings. From small to large, and mellow to rowdy, the group is almost always a direct reflection of the Couple. I have also had the opportunity to be in a couple weddings of my closest friends, but recently I was speaking to my Sister who is a bridesmaid at her Best Friend’s Wedding, this upcoming year. The question came up, “Now that I’m a Bridesmaid, what do I do?”

Cred: Judy & Gavin

This got me thinking, what are the Do’s and Don’ts of being a Bridesmaid? If you’re a newly engaged bride, a bridesmaid, or hoping to be a bridesmaid or have them in the future, you are going to want to check this out! 

When saying “Yes” to the Bridesmaid role… know that it will not only be a time commitment, but also a financial one. Asking someone to be in their Wedding Party is an honor, so don’t take the responsibility lightly and know that no matter where you are standing, your role is very important to them. 

Cred: Judy and Gavin

What Your Role Will Include:

1. Attend important wedding functions, such as; the engagement party, Bach party, dress selection or fitting, shower, rehearsal dinner, after wedding brunch. Etc.

2. Help plan and put on the Bach party/weekend activities. This includes making sure there are games, decor, reservations, transportation, etc. 

3. Help setup and cleanup of the bridal shower. While often a family member will throw the Shower, the Wedding Party will offer their time to help ensure it goes smoothly. 

4. While not always required, you may be asked to give a speech at the wedding or rehearsal dinner. 

5. Plan the night before the wedding day and after the rehearsal dinner. Typically a mellow option like mud masks and a movie, but remember things like snacks, drinks and spa items are important. 

6. Assist in the organization of the wedding morning. Remember items like mimosas, snacks, etc.

7. Be there for the Couple during the process emotionally and physically when needed. 

8. Attend the Rehearsal which typically is during the week day at an odd hour. So, if you work full time, make sure your work knows you might need extra time for this responsibility. (remember to be on time or early!)

It’s important that you are there for the Couple to ensure they feel pampered and treated special at each event. After all, this is their wedding! 

Hair and Makeup Note: One of the biggest places of stress for my Bride’s is organizing the Hair and Makeup situation. If you plan to have both your Hair and Makeup done by the morning of the Wedding, make sure the Bride knows this early in the planning. Also, note- for larger Wedding Parties- early call times to start Hair and Makeup is necessary. If you are given your time for Hair and Makeup (no matter how early) don’t complain and be on time for it! By even starting 5 minutes late, you will cause an issue with the overall timeline!

Cred: Jessica Lynn Photography

What Are Items You Can Expect to Pay For?:

1. The dress or suit and all the accessories (shoes, spanx, etc)

2. Your portion + part of the Bride or Grooms hotel/airfare/transport for the Bach party/weekend. Plus fun decor items. 

3. A gift at the shower.

4. Hair and Makeup the day of the wedding plus tip!

5. Hotel and transportation the night of the wedding.

6. A gift on the wedding day.

Cred: Judy & Gavin

As I said before, being a part of the wedding is a special honor & responsibility, so there are big things you should avoid doing as a bridesmaid as well...

What NOT to do:

1. Say yes and then pull out or change your mind.

2. Say yes without understanding the costs and responsibilities associated. 

3. Complaining about anything. This includes the dress, another wedding party member or the overall experience, etc.

4. Forget it’s about the couple first and foremost.

5. Overly drink at any function so you’re the one who needs assistance.

6. Go missing during photos. 

7. Show up late for your hair and makeup (morning of the Wedding).

8. Complain about your hair and makeup start time.

Cred: Judy and Gavin

Are you the maid or matron of honor? Along with the above, here are a few extra responsibilities you’ll be asked to perform.

Maid/Matron of Honor Duties: 

1. Ensuring the Wedding Party is in the loop on all activities. 

2. Typically the MOH will ensure everyone attending the Bachelorette weekend or other activities shares the costs associated and covers the Bride’s portion. The MOH usually will organize the money and ensure every reservation, payment, etc is paid. 

3. Being the Bride’s right hand person, the ENTIRE event. 

4. Prepare and give a speech. 

5. Making sure the entire Wedding Party gets to know each other and is having a good time. 

Cred: Judy and Gavin

Overall, being a part of the wedding party can be SO much fun, but don’t forget the responsibility of being one! And to the bride, if someone kindly declines the offer of being a bridesmaid, it’s totally okay and you can still be friends.

Know any new bridesmaids or brides-to-be? Share this blog with them so that they can learn all about the Bridesmaid Role! And check out + get inspiration from all of the amazing bridesmaid & groomsmen parties Jamison Events has worked with on Pinterest.

Have a Wonderful Day,

Jamison

Where to Start When Planning Your Wedding

Being newly engaged is exciting, fun, but also a bit overwhelming. If you’ve never planned a Wedding before, you’re probably wondering, where should I START? While most Couples have a general idea of what they’d like to do for their big day, figuring out how to make that dream a reality can be difficult. Here are some tips to help you start your planning off in the right direction:

Photo Cred: The DeLauras Photography

Step 1: Start Off Slow

In the excitement & thrill of being engaged, oftentimes Couples will jump the gun (so to speak) and dive in all at once. For example, this could be creating & asking the Wedding Party, jumping into venue tours and spending hours combing through Pinterest, pinning every photo. 

Let me tell you, THIS is where stress & overwhelm will eventually set in. By slowing the process a little, you’re able to weigh many options to ensure you’re making the best decisions for the two of you. 

PS! I never recommend asking your Wedding Party until you officially have booked your venue, have your date set and budget in place. Remember, a larger Wedding Party means more money for both you and those you are asking; so be thoughtful in the responsibilities you are asking of them. 

Photo Cred: Judy & Gavin

Step 2: Hire a Wedding Planner

So, I’m biased on this, but THIS is where us Wedding Planners shine. First of all, it’s never too late to hire a Wedding Planner… Well maybe the morning of might be a little too late, but by hiring an experienced Wedding Planner early, they will do the following:

1. Help you narrow down your wants vs. your needs

2. Find the perfect venue

3. Create a budget and Help you save money & stretch your budget as you book potential vendors

4. Guide you through the overall process to ensure your wedding day is not only smooth, but personalized to the two of you. 

Photo Cred: Lisa Lorene

Step 3: Put it On Paper

It’s always fun to plan your dream wedding, until you start to see the costs add up. The fact is, you have a budget and that budget needs to be realistic. Putting it on paper means-

1. What you can realistically afford

2. What style/aesthetic of the Wedding you’d like to have

3. How many guests you will be expecting

This will help you really narrow down the types of venues and vendors you’ll be able to hire. 

Photo Cred: Green Chameleon

Step 4: Venue Search

You can find the Top 10 Tips for Finding Your Ideal Venue in an earlier Blog post! This is a great resource for when you’re ready to start searching!

Photo Cred: Lisa Lorene

Step 5: Hire Your Main Vendors

Especially right now, it’s a busy time for the Wedding Industry. Hiring your major Wedding Vendors early will be key. While there is no real order you MUST hire your vendors in, by prioritizing your Main Vendors first, you’re ensuring you will be able to find the perfect fit.

I recommend hiring in this order:

1. Wedding Planner

2. Venue

3. Catering (if not included with the venue)

4. Photographer

5. DJ or Band

6. Invitations/Stationary (Save the Dates into Invitations)

7. Major Rentals (if not included with the venue)

8. Florals

9. Videographer (this might be earlier in the process if it’s a must-have for you!)

10. Cake and Desserts

11. Fun added bonuses such as Photobooth, Favors, Attire, etc. 

Remember! If you are Wedding Dress Shopping this should start 10 months prior and should be purchased no later than 6 months prior for alterations and ordering. 

Photo Cred: Charisse Kenion

Vendor Comparison Tip:

I always recommend speaking with 3 vendors at a time and having them write up a proposal for comparison. See how you feel about their costs, overall personality and experience level. Once you’ve chosen a vendor to hire, remember to be kind to those you have decided not to go with and send them a Thank You decline letter. Ghosting or not responding often happens in the industry and a simple “thank you but we’ve gone a different route”, is always appreciated!

And there you have it!

5 simple steps to get your wedding planning started. From being in this industry for 20 years, I know that starting the wedding planning process isn’t always easy, but I think these will absolutely get you started. And I am always available to reach out to via email: jamison@jamisonevents.com 

Have a Wonderful Day,

Jamison

TOP Reasons WHY Your Wedding DJ is Important!

Have you ever wondered…is your wedding DJ really that important? I truly feel that your DJ (or band) is one of the most important aspects to your Wedding Day and can often be overlooked due to budget restraints. It’s VERY important to hire someone who is professional, but reputable. 

Image By: Zane Persaud

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, I get to work with plenty of really great wedding DJs of all different styles. Each DJ creates a unique experience, so it is important that you find the one who’s right for you!

Remember the Adam Sandler movie called the Wedding Singer?

Laugh all you want now, but “Singing” Wedding DJs were a POPULAR hire when I helped out within my Parents’ Bridal Show Company back in the day. A mix of band and DJ with a well sung MC/Emcee. It makes me giggle now because I know in the future, as most things do, it will be on trend again!! 

AND NOW, you’ve arrived, at The TOP Reasons Why Your DJ is Important (from the eyes of a Wedding Planner):

Number One: Hiring a professional is key!

• First, a professional ensures that the night stays on time. You need to make sure your DJ can stick to a timeline, but also make adjustments when & if small situations arise! 

• Secondly, having a professional DJ makes sure every needed announcement is relayed and names are read & pronounced properly. They will remind guests to put out their seating card with their meal choice for catering, announce everyone in your Wedding Parties names, properly announcing the wedding party for the Grand Entrance, etc.

• Thirdly, a professional DJ will ensure the proper music is played at the right time. Can you imagine having the wrong First Dance song play...yikes!

• Fourth, a professional DJ will have high quality music & sound. They should ensure you don’t hear that painful scratch from the speaker or any crackles. 

• Fifth, they will account for making sure there is enough electrical power at the venue and set this system up themselves. DJ’s who KNOW their stuff, ensure they have the proper amount of power & understand the venue prior to your Big Day.

• Lastly, they will make sure the VIBE is met and the night stays FUN! A professional will know when to play a dance song and when to slow the night down, all while making sure everyone is having a great time. No awkward lulls please! 

When all else fails, this is the whole goal: that the wedding night is enjoyable for everyone!

Number Two: There’s a difference between a DJ, an MC/Emcee and a Wedding DJ.

What is a DJ?:

When I think of a DJ, I think of someone who scratches records and is music oriented. Unless you want your Wedding to have a “Club Vibe” from beginning to end…you need someone who knows the difference between playing “Shots Shots Shots” and Frank Sinatra. A really good DJ will be able to transition the songs with no gap in the music, to keep the party going! 

What is an MC/Emcee?: 

The MC is important because this is the person’s voice you’re listening to all night long. Often a DJ will either be both the DJ and MC or it will be a team. You want your MC/Emcee to be fun without being corny and on top of the night. 

What is a Wedding DJ?: 

A professional who typically MC’s the night too. Often there will be a team, one who runs the music and one who is on the mic. A Wedding DJ will ensure the night runs smoothly and they also know the right music to play at the important moments.

**Side Story: I’ve worked with Wedding DJs who have been so overly into having guests on the dance floor, they’ve forgotten about the cake cutting. Or the opposite⎼had a great dance set going, and then lost everyone to a bad song transition.**

Image By: Zac Bromell

DJ HORROR Stories (Yikes!)

- One time, I worked a Wedding with a DJ who was so afraid to be on the mic, I ended up emceeing the night. (NOT my favorite thing to do, but important to keep the night going)

- Another time, I worked a Wedding where the DJ showed up with a hat on & flip flops, with NO change of clothes…

- Can’t forget about the DJ who I had to ask to stop drinking at the Bar and play the Grand Entrance song. 

- And lastly, I’ve worked a Wedding with a DJ who had the BIGGEST setup that the system kept blowing the power all. night. long.

Image By: Ruan Richard

Number Three: Questions YOU (or your wedding planner) needs to be asking before hiring your DJ.

1. How are their reviews?

2. Ask for a video to see how they perform.

3. Are they recommended by your fellow vendors?

4. Do they offer wireless mics for the Ceremony? How many?

5. How many sets of speakers do they offer?

6. Consider if they will work well with your other vendors.

7. Does your venue have a noise requirement? Can the DJ adhere to the rules?

8. Does your DJ understand your vibe? Do you like THIER personality too?

9. Are they reasonably priced for your budget? (not too low, not too high)

10. Have they worked at your venue before?

11. Are they professional, from email responses to attire? Consider that they fit YOUR needs, not the other way around.

Important Last Notes! 

**Make sure you give a list of your favorite songs AND your dislike songs prior to your Wedding day. Ex. Do you love Disney music and hate EDC? Your DJ needs to know that!**

Grab Your DJ Questions Checklist!

And we would LOVE if you asked us for our DJ recommendations! 

Have a wonderful day everyone,

Jamison

Top 8 Ventura County Wedding Venues

Ventura County has been my home since I was 2 years old, so it holds a special place, in my heart. With so much to offer, from beautiful majestic mountains to it’s incredible beaches, not to mention the idealic weather. Ventura County has become one of the most sot after places to say “I Do” in Southern Califronia. It’s not just a wedding spot for locals, I’m often planning for Couples outside of the State and Country. Nestled between Los Angeles County and Santa Barbara County, Ventura County offers a wide range of experienced vendors, without a top dollar price tag too!

Now, I’ll say this… Choosing my favorite Top 8 Wedding Venues within Ventura County, is not an easy task. There are many to choose from. So, if the below does not resonate, let me know! I have many more options to check out. In choosing our favs, we considered, the overal aesthetic, reasonable cost in regards to service options and food and beverage options! It’s also super important that from the start in working with your venue, you have the best experience and each of these venues will offer just that. From their sales team to their event team, everyone will treat you like your wedding is personal, important and unique! These are the venues we get most excited to work with and there are no cookie cutter weddings here!

Need a custom list of venues to fit your dream wedding? Email me- Jamison@JamisonEvents.com

Photo Credit: Jennifer Jasso Photography

Photo Credit: Lucas Rossi Photography

Rosie + Patrick's Spanish Hills Wedding

One of the hardest part of this Wedding for me… choosing which photos to post on this BLOG!! Ok, I’m slightly teasing but Rosie was the most beautiful Bride with Patrick her LAFD Groom and deciding which photos to post was really hard (they were all so great!). Ha! I think the number one comment I get about her… she looks like Megan Markle!! I totally agree. This was one of the best parties with some of my favorite vendors too! Rosie said something during her speech that has remained with me. She said “I have waited 37 years for this, this was so special to me.” and it made me remember how incredible this job is. Genuinely making dreams come true! I love reminiscing every second of this special day.

Rosie and I carefully planned every aspect of this day. From their traditional Catholic aspects to their Ceremony to the Mariachi at Cocktail Hour, their Military Sword Grand Entrance and their beautifully choreographed first dance. Rosie surprised her Groom with a Sonora Dinamita tribute band and the Groom’s crew from the LAFD surprised the Bride with a CORED cake! If you haven’t seen this before… its terrifying for the Vendors, haha! But a tradition for all Firemen getting hitched!

Everything turned out literally perfect. I look over these photos with so much pride and nostalgia. I can truly say Rosie has become a friend and I’m so honored to have been her Wedding Planner!!

Incredible Vendors

Venue -

Spanish Hills Country Club, Camarillo https://spanishhillscc.com/Weddings_Special_Events/Weddings

Photographer - Michelle Ramirez Photography http://mramirezphotography.com/

Planning - Jamison Events

Florals - Tangled Lotus https://www.tangledlotus.com/

Videography - Jeremy Foster Films https://jeremyfosterfilms.com/

Hair and Makeup - Brenda Hendricks Artistry https://www.bhendricksartistry.com/

Bridesmaid Hair and Makeup -

I Doo Makeup https://www.instagram.com/idoomakeup

Hair by Victoria M. https://www.instagram.com/hairbyvictoriam

DJ - SB Paradise Music - DJ Rich http://sbpmdj.com/

Mariachi - Mariachi Los Toreros http://mariachilostoreros.com/

Cake - Cakes by Denise https://www.cakesbydeniseca.com/

Dress - Essence of Australia https://www.essensedesigns.com/

Nicole & Ryan say "I Do!"

Nicole and Ryan’s beautiful Sherwood Country Club Wedding was nothing short of a dream. With some of the very best vendors, their day was filled with custom special moments. Not only is Nicole one of the sweetest, but she’s also a very talented cookie decorator! We were able to see her special cookies at each table setting and her soft palette of Blush, Burgundy and Gold, accentuated the Ballroom’s aesthetic well.

Amazing Vendors

Photography by Rebecca Theresa Photography - http://rebeccatheresa.com/

Planning by Jamison Events

Venue Sherwood Country Club - https://www.sherwoodcc.com/

Entertainment, Lighting and MCee by Matt Graumann Entertainment - https://mattgraumann.wordpress.com/

Florals by Belle of the Ball - https://www.belleoftheballdesigns.com/

Videography by Tim Fox Weddings - http://timfoxweddings.com/

Cake by Skiffs Cakes - https://www.skiffscakes.com/

Photo Booth by Vox Djs - https://voxdjs.com/

Cookie Favors by The Bride - https://www.instagram.com/nstast/

Hotel Accommodations by Hyatt Regency Westlake Village - https://www.hyatt.com/

Jolie and Will Ring In The New Year

From the first time Jolie and I spoke, we hit it off. I felt an immediate connection and wanted to truly make this an incredible Wedding for her and her fiance Will. Jolie shared that they chose New Years Eve as their Wedding date, because her Mom (and incredible former Wedding Planner herself) had been experiencing some health issues and she wanted to truly ring in the New Year with her closest friends and family. As we navigated through the planning process I learned Jolie was innovative and determined. She would come up with an idea and do everything she could to ensure she had the most cost effective and best option possible. Jolie and Will were engaged at an Alpaca farm in Carpinteria. So, through the planning process Jolie decided she wanted to invite a few Alpaca friends to her Wedding, to surprise her guests. And Oh were they a surprise! Not only were we able to hang out with two adult Alpacas and two babies but they even had outfit changes!! Starting out in their formal Wedding attire and switching to their New Years Eve get-ups! Jolie’s entire Wedding style came together beautifully, she intermixed their love for contemporary art with soft Boho style accents. Which meshed well with the Fess Parker Inn decor. A friend of theirs custom drew their invitations and their table numbers were an homage of some of their favorite contemporary artists. All in all, it was an incredible experience working with Jolie and Will on their dream day. Here are a few highlights-

Amazing Vendors

Photographer - Brumley and Wells Photography - https://www.brumleyandwells.com/weddings

Venue- Fess Parker Inn - https://www.fessparkerinn.com/

Wedding Planner - Jamison Events - https://www.jamisonevents.com/

Florals - Wild Poppy Desgings - https://www.wildpoppyfloraldesign.com/

Videographer - Roman Howell Films - https://www.romanhowellfilms.com/

DJ - Vox DJs - https://voxdjs.com/

Makeup and Hair - 805 Makeup - http://805makeup.com/

Alpacas - Horse feather Ranch - http://www.horsefeatherranch.net/

Transporation - Next Adventure Tours - https://nextadventure805.com/

Classic Wedding Trends That Are Always in Style!!

With the new year ahead we are seeing articles about the 2020 Wedding Trends! The Wedding Industry is always evolving, like fashion, new trends come and go with the era. I’m often asked what is a timeless piece that my Couples can add to their big day? The answer is, Classic Elements. Classic will always remain on trend because its the idea that 20 years from now, when you look back at your Wedding, you think “Wow, I love my decor.” Not, “Wow, that dress is so outdated!”

So, here are a few of my favorite Classic Wedding Elements to keep your Wedding Timeless.

1. Clean, White (soft palette) Flowers and Decor with Greenery

2. Seasonal Decor

Summer

Fall

Winter

Spring

3. Soft Wedding Elements

4. Personal Touches

Featured Vendors for a few of the above Photos-

Photography-

http://www.lauren-newman.com/

https://emmaandjosh.com/

https://www.studio7photo.net/

Flowers & Decor

https://www.primroseandpetals.com/

https://www.uniquefloraldesigns.com/

Venues

https://www.northranchcc.org/

https://www.losroblesgreens.com/

https://www.spanishhillscc.com/Weddings_Special_Events.aspx

Joy + David Wedding

This Wedding reflected the Couple personalities perfectly. Beautiful, laid-back, fun and full of dancing. I was referred to Joy and David by Tania the Director of the exclusive Santa Monica Beach Club and we immediately clicked. I was so honored to be apart of this amazing day. From sweet floral decor to a classic cake, we incorporated the Beach Club’s Coastal Decor and stunning beach view!

Photography & Videography - https://www.studio7photo.net/

Planning - Jamison Events

DJ - https://voxdjs.com/

Flowers - https://www.westwoodflowergarden.com/

Cake - https://www.sweetladyjane.com/

Makeup & Hair - http://www.makeupbykarenlee.com/