Happenings: Kathleen Deery Holiday Shop

One of my favorite florists,Kathleen Deery, is hosting a holiday boutique at her beautiful studio in San Francisco this weekend. Kathleen has put together a gorgeous array of wreaths, garlands, and trees which are perfect for trimming your home for the holidays. Order online here and be sure to check out her shop on Lusk Street this Friday & Saturday.

Martha Stewart Weddings: Destination Weddings

Be sure to scoop up a copy of the special Destination Weddings issue of Martha Stewart Weddings. They featured one of my favorite events - a vintage inspired Napa Valley wedding.

Q + A: Stanlee Gatti

I have been so lucky to work with Stanlee Gatti and his team on countless events and weddings over the last 15 years. I have loved collaborating with him and witnessing his creativity first hand. Stanlee is truly a creative genius- his attention to detail, understanding of scale, and unparalleled eye make him a master of his craft. Stanlee never loses sight of the big picture and that always becomes clear when guests enter a space that he has designed - the drama of his design transforms an event into an unforgettable experience.

* What inspires you to come up with new ideas? The desire to have new ideas.

* Who are the top 3 people who you admire most in terms of style or events? Issey Miyake for his innovation, Johnny Depp for the way he wears jewelry and hold his cigarette, Joni Mitchell for living on all four sides, Mexican peoples for their love of color--that's more than three but I could go on for a long time - my list could be endless.

* In your opinion, what makes a great wedding? Love.

* What trends in weddings do you see are coming in 2010? What I have done in 2009. :)

* Do you have a favorite location or venue for an event? A home.

* What is the best part about your job? New friendships.

* I am always impressed how you approach the initial meetings with brides. How do you reconcile a client's wishes with your vision? I'm intuitive and sensitive-their wishes become my vision and sometimes even before they know for what they're wishing for.

Coming Soon: Q + A with Stanlee Gatti

Check in later this week for a fabulous Q + A with the extraordinary Stanlee Gatti. His event designs and wit will wow you. See you soon!

Wine Country Rehearsal Dinner: Susan + Ben

Susan and Ben hosted a casual rehearsal dinner at Paraduxx Winery to kick off their wedding weekend in the Napa Valley. Paraduxx, part of the Duckhorn family of wineries, was a fun location for guests to kick back outdoors while sampling some of their great wines. Guests tasted all of the wines that Paraduxx has to offer while also nibbling on a fantastic spread of local cheeses. After the wine tasting, guests moved outdoors for a buffet style dinner under a canopy of glowing lights.

My Favorite Detail? I loved the narrow long tables dressed in a fun linen. The tables really enhanced the intimate feel Susan and Ben were striving for.

Flowers by Valley Flora. Photography by Fairbanks and Fairbanks. Location Paraduxx Winery.