Stanford Court Weddings

The Stanford Court Renaissance featured in The Knot Northern California Spring/Summer 2010 Issue!

2010-03-25T12:41:00.000-07:00

The Knot Northern California's Spring/Summer 2010 issue found the top wedding planners from Northern California to get their take on the latest and greatest in this amazing area we call home.

The always marvelous and meticulous Michelle Barrionuevo-Mazzini of MB Wedding Design and Events quotes, "The Stanford Court, a Renaissance Hotel in San Francisco (415) 989-3500, just had a major renovation. Its ballroom can seat 400 and has a contemporary, boutique feel, especially compared to other large spaces in the city. I've heard the hotel is very green too."

Contemporary and Green we are! Thank you MB and The Knot!

In case you can't read the section on Michelle...her secret weapon is "build(ing) a friendship with my clients to ensure that every bit of ground is covered".

Visit her gallery to see the masterpieces that make her 1 of the TOP planners in Northern CA:

http://www.mbweddingdesigns.com/

Gilt Groupe goes Wedding

2010-03-08T12:57:00.001-08:00

Fashion junkies and brides rejoice: The New York City-born, online sample sale site, Gilt Groupe, has expanded their portfolio of luxury travel, fashion, accessories and gadgets to the wedding market.

Visit Gilt's Wedding Weekend-March 12 to March 14 for all things wedding, fabulous and marked down

http://www.gilt.com/blog/2010/03/04/1722-big-deals-for-the-big-day-sneak-peek-gilts-wedding-weekend-march-12-14?ifs=mailing_id%3D52321%26link_type%3Dsneak-peek-gilts-wedding-weekend%26edid%3DGK6NY2O-QNNBB-S33BHZ-R120S-KESB0-v1

Tips from an Expert: Darcy's Idea of the Day

2010-03-08T12:16:00.000-08:00

Receive daily tips from expert wedding planner, Darcy Miller, of Martha Stewart Weddings.

http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/idea-of-the-day

Today's idea...paper posies. My take? Always go for the real deal...on the other hand, it is definitely cost-efficient and they are less delicate than real poppies. AND..they do take on a surprisingly realistic look....

A Bridesmaids Best Ally...

2010-02-18T14:27:00.000-08:00

"I picked out a dress that you can wear again!"

A bride's famous last words. How many times have you been a bridesmaid and been told the same words, only to add one more frock to your rainbow of bridesmaid get-ups in the nether regions of your closet?

I found a true GEM in San Francisco, that will instantly erase bridesmaid dress phobia the moment you walk in. Where to go for THE most current and wide range of both bridesmaid AND bridal couture??

Flair Bridesmaids, located at Polk and Union in the charming Russan Hill area of San Francisco.

Flair's owner, the fabulous Christine Colon, and her SF store manager, Dorothea are a bride's dream to work with. SO friendly, approachable and stylish. Check out their eco-friendly line, Conscious Clothing.

Definitely stop by www.flairbridesmaid.com for a listing of events and trunk shows where you can receive up to 20% off dresses. You will thank me later :)

Aurea debuts new entree and cocktail to benefit Red Cross Haitian Relief

2010-01-18T09:32:00.000-08:00

The Stanford Court Renaissance Hotel's delicious new restaurant, Aurea, will be featuring a specialty cocktail as well as an entrée as a fund raiser for the Red Cross Haitian Relief.

The entrée is a Stewed Jerk Chicken with coconut milk (cumin, ginger, coriander, green onion)fingerling potatoes, cioppolini onions, and a smashed fried plantain $23.00

The cocktail is white rum, pineapple juice, lime, strawberry, maraschino cherry liqueur $12.00

We will be donating 75% of the proceeds from these 2 items to the Red Cross.

Please come by to savor these new additions and contribute to those in need!

Manolos & Martinis Cocktail Soiree this Wednesday Night!

2010-01-11T10:45:00.000-08:00

Don't miss our Meet & Greet "COCKTAIL SOIREE"
Jan 13 Wed 6:00 PM
Location
Aurea Lounge
905 California St.at PowellSan Francisco, CA 94108
How to find us"Aurea Lounge"
Who’s coming?
36 Yes / 0 Maybe

You are invited to attend our: "Meet & Greet Sophisticated Soiree"
This event is your perfect mix of mingling & networking, Ladies Let's Get Together and Get Reacquainted!
Meet new girlfriends, and let's plan some fun upcoming events (chic stuff). casual atmosphere, cocktails available at the lobby bar.
Stop by and make some sweet connections, and if you are inspired to network don't forget your business cards!

The Fabulous Girlfriend Network®

Location
San Francisco, CA 37.8-122.4 94111US
Meetups
56 so far
Members
582 "Awesome Girlfriends"
Rating
"Manolos & Martinis Girlfriend Social™" BAY AREA 5.0039
Meetup topics
Women's Camaraderie, Ladies Social Events, Cocktails and Dining, Pool Parties, Shopaholics Unite, Charity Events and Festivals, Girl's Brunch, Fun, & Chit-Chat, Leisure Travel Divas
Founded
January 10, 2008
"THE PERFECT MIX of MINGLING and NETWORKING"
We are ladies with a sense of fashion and style. We are ladies who enjoy cocktails and everything fun in life.
We are women with substance who are willing to make a difference in the world. We have big hearts filled with passion and love!
We are are smart & sassy; friendly & fun; sweet & stylish; charming & chic. We really value unique long lasting friendships.
We love shopping, beauty, fashion, dining, spas, movies, brunch, Weekend getaways, fundraisers, and BBQ pool parties. We welcome awesome ladies to establish new friendships, Who are committed to expanding there social network.
If you do RSVP for an event, then it's important that you attend the event. No-shows will be removed, our members carry genuine interest in others.
We are Fun Loving Girlfriends! Join our group on Facebook: 'Manolos & Martinis Girlfriend Social®'

2010-01-11T10:23:00.000-08:00

A GORGEOUS Inspiration Board for a Tropical FALL Wedding. http://www.utterlyengaged.com/category/issues/issue-006/page/9/

Links: Christine Farah Photography,Invitation Design D*LSH Design,Wedding Coordination Red Velvet Occasions,Floral Design Green Leaf Designs,Veil Crowning Glory Designs,Floral Fascinator Tessa Kim on Etsy

New Blog Love

2009-11-18T09:16:00.000-08:00

OMG, LOVE Styl e Me Pretty....they manage to find the most unique weddings to feature...blows my mind when I see planners taking wedding design to new levels!

http://www.stylemepretty.com/

A must-see!

Tips for a Greener Wedding

2009-11-16T09:18:00.000-08:00

I came across this fantastic blog that gives SIMPLE (key word) tips on having a more environmentally friendly wedding.

http://oceanpearlweddings.blogspot.com/

Thought of the Day

2009-11-12T13:34:00.000-08:00

Some food for thought....actually from my daily horoscope app :)

"Words may express feeling, but only actions show others that you really care. Take the proper actions to let the ones you love know that you care about them and at another time that love will be returned ten-fold. It is easy to be kind when you are empowered but it's more potent when your not."

A well-put philosophy that applies to everything life, your business, your family, your friends, your co-workers. Think about how this applies to YOUR life :) Have a great one!

NEW PHOTOGRAPHS!

2009-10-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

Some brand new photos for you to feast your eyes on...

The Stanford Ballroom: Exquisite. Need I say more? This room is perfect for a dinner up to 280 guests with a dance floor, DJ/Band. It can be split in half for a more intimate affaire up to 140 guests. The decor of the room is neutral, so it lends itself well to every color theme, color-clashing is not an issue here.

Fournou's Ovens: The internationally renown restaurant, recognized by DiRona and Wine Spectator and former home to celebrity chef demonstrations to the likes of Julia Child and James Beard, is now used to host dinners or receptions up to 200 guests.

Fournou's Ovens has partial views of the city skyline and views of the Powell Street cable cars.

GREAT for the couple who wants something completely unique that your friends and family will talk about.

Foodies and Winos love this room in particular because of it's history as a culinary gem. This room is ideal for cocktail receptions, rehearsal dinners and engagement dinners.

For those Food Network obsessed out there, think about hosting a chef demonstration dinner here for your engagement or rehearsal dinner!

Nob Hill Room: Perfect for small luncheons, bridal showers, dinners, up to 60. An awesome place to host a cocktail reception up to 120. Stunning scenery, so very 'San Francisco'.

Parlor Suite: A beautiful and modern room that connects to a deluxe view king bedroom. It is truly THE perfect suite for your pre-wedding prep. Two full size bathrooms with full size mirrors, and electrical outlets a plenty. The chic decor of our rooms are sure to please the modern bride and groom.

Photos from Labor Day Wedding

2009-10-01T17:34:00.000-07:00

Photography by Lilia Ahner www.liliaphoto.com

Lighting by AVT Event Technology

Cake by Kelly Zubal of Inticing Creations

Rentals and Cake Table Linen by Classic Party Rentals

China, Flatware, Stemware and Banquet Table Linens by The Stanford Court, A Renaissance Hotel

Hats Off to The Stanford Court!

2009-09-10T11:54:00.000-07:00

Any person in the service industry will tell you, a great guest comment can really make your day. This letter was sent to our General Manager, from a conference and meeting planner who had their program here yesterday. A big hand goes to our Events, AV and Banquets Team who always manage to impress the guests with their professionalism and sincerity!

"The Stanford Court has always been my favourite hotel in San Francisco and I am so pleased to see the many structural improvements that have been made. Bravo!

Secondly, thanks to your team for helping us execute a wonderful event last night. Amiee James was a delight to work with, and what can I say about Stephen Chu and the banquet team – they are far and away the best in the business.

Mark Borden and his team also were great and having them in the room made me feel at ease and confident that from a technological perspective we were in good hands.

As you may know, I did an annual meeting in the Stanford Court for many years for a former corporate client and when the opportunity came up to place this program in San Francisco came up I immediately thought of the Stanford Court. I hope this is the first of many opportunities to come back.

Please pass along my thanks to everyone involved and thank you again for a job well done!"

The Stanford Court, A Renaissance Hotel in San Francisco, Holiday Promotions!! Holiday cards are already selling, scary isn't it!?

2009-09-10T11:45:00.000-07:00

It's that time again-the holidays are fast approaching and The Stanford Court wants to ensure this season will be your most festive yet. It's the perfect time to strengthen friendships, reward your workforce, or just celebrate! We think you deserve it. We are pleased to offer the following promotions to help sweeten the season:

Book by December 31st, 2009 and receive a complimentary Holiday Candy Bar for your party. Our signature Holiday Candy Bar, presented in glass apothecary jars, will be sure to evoke cheer at any occasion. The fun doesn't stop when the clock strikes, your guests will love picking and choosing which candies they bring home; we will provide individual 'to-go' bags and tags with your company name.

Marriott Rewards members who book any holiday event by December 31, 2009 will earn Double Marriott Rewards points-up to 50,000 points per event. To become a Marriott Rewards member today, click here.

A safe way home can be as easy as calling an elevator, inquire about our discounted group room rates for your holiday party.

To book an event, contact our Catering Specialist at (415)732-4046 or leslie.wong@renaissancehotels.com. Looking for something less formal, perhaps a team-building or a cocktail reception to celebrate the season? Let us know, we will help create an event that perfectly suits your needs.

To redeem offer(s), book by December 31st, 2009. Event(s) must be held before February 1st, 2010.To qualify for a complimentary Holiday Candy Bar, a 3-course entree must be ordered for each guest.Offers are subject to availability.

Budget Friendly Resources for Brides

2009-08-11T09:09:00.000-07:00

I was browsing to find deals on some organza gift bags, and found this awesome website that has everything from decorative birdcages to glass apothecary jars to LED floralytes! Total diamond in the Internet rough. It's a GREAT resource for brides and planners that want to save money (who doesn't, nowadays?!) without sacrificing many of the fun details. The Specials section is especially good. Don't say I didn't warn you: www.save-on-crafts.com

Seeing this website reminded me of 3 amazing girls I met while I was in working in Orange County. I met Eva Chiou, Event Planner/Designer/Owner of Red Velvet Occasions while working with her on a wedding block of rooms. As is common in the wedding world, she introduced me to 2 more fabulous women, Henny Setiadi and Lucia Dinh of D*Lsh Design. They created Utterly Engaged, an E-Zine for the 'budget savvy bride with style'. It is CHOCK FULL of creative ideas, photos of fantastic table decor, and even photos and stories from real couples who ran the wedding-planning gamut and made it out with a unique, gorgeous, and budget-friendly wedding. Their #002 Issue, 'Eco Chic French Affair' is a must see for how to throw an organic looking, eco-friendly, provencal style event. I could see this being great for a stylish bridal shower. Eco-Gowns by Sarah Seven is also note-worthy. Become a fan at www.utterlyengaged.com

The Soup: San Francisco Bay Area Wedding Blog Serving San Jose, Silicon Valley, & Monterey

2009-08-05T09:38:00.001-07:00

The Soup: San Francisco Bay Area Wedding Blog Serving San Jose, Silicon Valley, & Monterey

Shared via AddThis

Photos from the latest Wedding!

2009-08-04T17:01:00.001-07:00

This was by far one of the cutest weddings I have ever seen. The Bride and Groom actually choreographed a hip hop routine for their guests. Have you ever seen a hip hop routine that made you get teary-eyed?? Yes, it was a first for me too!

I walked into the Ballroom and was literally breath-taken by everything: the floral arrangements, table setttings, the wedding cake, the Baccarat Chandeliers, the dimmed lights and mirrored panels.

The Foyer and California Suite was turned into a cocktail lounge with our awesome Martini Bar-they had Classic Martini, Lychee Martinis, Golden Spike (one of SC's signature cocktail), Ginsane (another one), and Honey Bee (yet another one). One signature bar I swear I will get when I get married is a Champagne Bar...think Champagne done 6 different ways.

They also had a candy bar full of sour and chocolate candy, can I just say, I can't remember the last time I've seen people RUN to get in line for food. Okay, I might have been one myself. I thought it was really cool how the bride and groom really thought of ways to make their wedding exciting and interactive and manage to keep it special and personal as well.

Wedding Cake by Kelly Zublar of Inticing Creations, Floral was by PK Art and Floral Design. Obviously very skilled and also very professional to work with. Chairs, Linens, Flatware, China and Stemware from The Stanford Court.

Photos I took today of The California Suite and California Foyer

2009-07-29T10:16:00.000-07:00

I didn't have any photos on hand of our fantastic California Suite and Foyer, so I took a stroll down our grand marble staircase with digital camera in hand, and snapped a few shots just now. The California Suite is our junior ballroom, about 2000 sq.ft., and is perfect for ceremonies up to 150 people and banquets up to 140 or 100 with a dance floor. Combined with the Foyer, we have done cocktails up to 300.

I love everything about these rooms, they are bright, contemporary and uplifting! Check out the fabulous staircase detail too! It screams 'photo-opp' to every photographer that sees it.