Nozza Studio

Real Wedding :: Veronica + Haitham Renaissance Hotel Long Beach

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:21:38 -0700

This year has definitely been the year of warp speed planning. I received a phone call from one of my sisters asking me if I would help plan one of her best friends wedding, Veronica to Haitham at the start of spring. I said sure not problem, but you do realize that it's in two months time? Having planned a few weddings already this year within two months I immediately got to work.

Veronica and Haitham were so easy to work with. They knew they wanted to keep the wedding intimate with focus on family and close friends. I knew that based on their budget and size of wedding the perfect venue for them would be The Renaissance Hotel in Long Beach. They offer an all inclusive package that includes venue, food, cake, and flowers. Lucky for us Deanne of Bella Fiore is the hotels preferred florist so the choice was an easy one.

One of Veronica + Haitham's friend brought an abundance of pastries for everyone to enjoy. Haitham's family is from Egypt and they couldn't attend the wedding celebration but not a single moment was missed. We set up a web cam so they wouldn't miss a thing. Haitham even had a little dance with him mother via the cam.

I want to thank Will William Kim Photography for capturing the night. He was so attentive and kind. I truly enjoy working with him.

Allison + Nathan :: Engagement Session + Wedding Invitations

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 19:48:28 -0700

These two crazy kids are getting married! I love working with wedding photographers when it comes to planning their own wedding. It's been a great year for The Wedding Clique and this wedding will be special for all of us involved. Henry Chen will be photographing their wedding on a very special date 10-10-10! You can see some more of their engagement session by visiting HCP blog.

Lucky for me my lovely friends are photographers and are nice enough to shot some great photos of their invitations. After a couple meetings with Allison + Nathan we finally got the color scheme down and made a design selection. As some of you may already know I'm fortunate enough to work with some amazing local stationery designers. After selecting the new Pocket Fold and one of my absolutely new favorite card stock Anvil from Envelopments we chose one of Monica's of Paper Cut Industries signature designs.

I just love how you can take two different concepts and mix it up a bit to create your very own semi-custom design. I love the color combination we came up with and the new pocket fold lends perfect with the modern inspired wedding. Thanks Nathan for taking pictures of your invitations.

Kendra + Prashanth: Custom Wedding Invites

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 13:58:40 -0700

Great things can come in small packages. Let me tell you why I love working with Envlopments products so much. You don't ever have to sacrifice style for cost. Kendra was one of those clients who would randomly stop by the studio just to see what new things we had recently made. She browsed through the many invitation album books we carry and displays. She knew she wanted something personalized to them but didn't know how to pull it all together.

I know that it may be difficult for some couples to hear when I say "trust me, you'll love it" one thing I can assure any of my clients is that I don't just take notes on what you say, I really listen to what it is you are saying. I'm not just a stationery designer I'm also a wedding planner so I understand what it is my clients are trying to achieve with their wedding invitations. Pulling it all together is what I do.

To save on cost we went with a 4x5 Pocket fold and instead of having several inserts we combined the Map and Accommodations card into one. The design was inspired by a note card Kendra had kept from her travels. We were able to incorporate that design element throughout the invitations. Another way we were able to cut down on cost is instead of layering the invitation with an additional card stock we created two borders within the design. It creates the illusion have having a backing without the additional cost. The Pocket fold was then held together by a belly band that had their names and wedding date in front.

Diana + Ralph : Wedding Invitations

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 23:24:06 -0700

If you've been in my studio as of late you know that I am utterly obsessed with the new Envelopments Sea Shell textured metallic card stock. I simply cannot get enough of it. For someone getting married in less than two months, being indecisive is not in Diana's vocabulary. This girl not only can make a decision without hesitation she also has great style.

I'll tell you a little secret. If you're a girls girl and love your pink, then this card stock is a sure winner in convincing your fiance that pink will be a color theme in your wedding. The texture and shimmer wins them over all the time. Here we paired it with a graphite color that every man can agree on. You get the best of both worlds. Pinks for the lady and gray for the man.

Thanks to my other amazing, talented, dear friend Gamie of Peach Mail Box for always finding ways to pull a design together. This monogram design has quickly become a favorite in the studio. I can't wait to show you how one design can easily be customized to fit each couples needs. I will post those up once they arrive off the press.

Melissa + Bernie: Custom Wedding Invitations

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 17:23:01 -0700

I had so much fun designing Melissa + Bernie's custom wedding invitations. The inspiration for the design originated from the wedding venue Los Angeles River Center and Gardens in Los Angeles, CA. I knew from the start I wanted to incorporate some elements of the architecture into the design. I was also inspired by Rifle Paper Co. and new that I wanted to do something similar to that. Lastly, what pulled it all together were the amazing linens by BBJ the minute I showed this table cloth to Melissa it was love at first sight.

Pulling all these elements into one invitation suite couldn't have happened without the help of my talented friends. One of my childhood friends is not only a scientist but also an artist. You can find her murals around the city walls or her art displayed in galleries. Nuvia of Arte Crisol was able to bring this to life for us. She captured every detail of the venue, the linens, the colors and both Melissa + Bernie's wedding attire.

Monica Majors of Paper Cut Industries, who is one of my primary graphic designers was then able to pull together all the elements from the painting and table cloths to design the rest of the stationery. I love finding new ways to work with Envelopments products and decided that for this project we would do a booklet style invitation.

I'm so pleased with the results and Melissa guests can't stop raving about her invitations. When guests arrived to the venue they immediately felt connected to the space because of the invitations. I had her painting framed and we then displayed it at the entrance of the venue. Not only did she have a unique invitation suite but also a painting as a keepsake.

Diana + Ralph : Engagement Session Los Angeles

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 10:46:34 -0700

This year has definitely been the year of warp speed planning. Just a few months ago I received a call from Diana asking if I could plan a wedding in two months? You read that correctly my friends, two months. So the search began. We were fortunate enough to book The Los Angeles Rive and Center Garden, where Melissa and Bernies wedding just took place. That in itself was a miracle. If you're not familiar with the River, this venue usually books 18 months in advance. All the planning is complete, my studio is packed with all the decor, finalizing a few last minute details and we're ready for show time next week.

I'm excited to share with you a few of their engagement photos that Jenny Park took. Jenny is working on a new site, so unfortunately can't share her work with you just yet, but I will link back once it is up. (Link is up)

Melissa + Bernie: Los Angeles River and Garden Center

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 12:11:50 -0700

Melissa + Bernie's Wedding at the Los Angeles River and Garden Center this past weekend was by far one of my most favorite weddings ever. I couldn't have imagined spending my holiday weekend anywhere else other than with Melissa and Bernie, no one parties better than these two.

I want to thank Kristen and Rafael for introducing me to such a lovely couple. From the very first consultation I knew that we would not only have a great time planning the wedding but we would definitely remain friends after the big day. (I'm seeing her today, any excuse to keep her coming back)

Sunday's celebration at one of my favorite little hidden gems Los Angeles River Center and Gardens could not have happened without the help of my partners in crime Deanne of Bella Fiore and Henry of Henry Chen Photography, this is one of many weddings The Wedding Clique will be working on together this year.

This wedding is a perfect example of how you can use several colors without having it look like a skittles factory. The focal point of the wedding were the Carlisle Lamour linens by BBJ Linens. Everything from hand painted wedding invitations using that pattern, to all the table names, programs and signs were inspired by this table cloth.

I feel honored and blessed to have been a part of such a special day. What started out as an idea in my head and a year of planning all came to fruition. The joy in Melissa's face when she saw it all put together is priceless.

Vendor Highlight: This DJ had the dance floor on fire. Loved him. Luke of Premiere Events

Ceremony and reception locations: Los Angeles River Center and Gardens in Los Angeles, CA

Planner, coordinator, and stationery: NOZZA Studio

Officiant: Father Mike Javor

Dress: La Soie Bridal Shop #1

Florist: Bella Fiore

Cake: Rossmoor Pastries

Music: Ricky Rasura Harpist

Transportation: Hilltop Limousine Service

Yolanda + Hanson :: Chinatown & Olvera Street Engagement Session Photos

Mon, 24 May 2010 13:10:13 -0700

I am beyond excited to have met both Yolanda and Hanson. Thank you Henry Chen Photography for blogging about me. Because of you Yolanda found me. We've had so much much finding a venue in the San Ynez area and recently completed their Mexcian, Chinese, and American inspired save-the-date cards. I can't wait to share those with everyone as well. Congratulations Yolanda and Hanson, you're e-session pictures are beautiful. I can't wait for your wedding day.

Zoila and Arturo: Iglesia Catolica San Pedro Chanel

Sun, 23 May 2010 13:44:08 -0700

This was by far one of the most stressful weddings I've ever had to plan. There are several lessons to be learned but I think the most important lesson I learned was that as long as you have friends, family and a community that supports you everything and anything is possible. Zoila and Arturo are blessed to have a community and a loving family that were willing to do whatever it takes to make their special day possible. Two weeks prior to her wedding the venue that they had booked informed them that another wedding was also booked that day and they would have to find an alternative venue. With two weeks to the date we worked hard to pull it all together. To all the vendors that help me with your support I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. I also am blessed to have a great network of wedding vendors to work with. Congratulations Zoila and Arturo, if you managed to make it through this you can make it through anything.

Photos by Studio 7 Photography

Ivis + Mike : Redlands - The Mitten Building

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 20:32:15 -0700

Less than six months ago my friends Ivis + Mike surprised us at their house warming party with the announcement of their engagement. We were all so excited for both of them, but soon after that a date was set and the next few words came out of her mouth "Do you think you can plan a wedding in four months?" Oh, how I love a challenge.

Ivis is one of the most creative and crafty people I know. I knew my friend was talented, but I didn't know she was this talented. Before I get into all the craziness that took place in such a short amount of time, I want to thank two of my favorite boys. Henry of Henry Chen Photography and Will of William Kim Photography for capturing all the very special moments of my dear friends wedding day.

The staff at The Mitten Building went above and beyond to help me set up and keep things running smoothly throughout the night. I even had a local volunteer roll and wrap every single napkin, I mean only in Redlands would that happen. Farm Artisan Foods and its staff was one of the easiest catering companies I've worked with in a long time. I have to say it was really nice to start off my season working with such competent vendors.

This post will most definitely have to have a part two. There are so many little details of this wedding the require its own post. Ivis not only challenged me to help her plan a wedding within four months, she also decided she was going to make every single element from centerpieces to homemade infused vodka favors. I fell in love with the brides bouquet, hair piece, bridesmaids bouquet and the flowers girls piece so much so that I want to start selling her items in my store. They were so adorable. There is so much to describe from guest book board to the cake table displays that it most definitely requires a follow up post. I'll leave you with a few shots and if you want to view more click over to Henry's Blog.

Thank you Ivis and Mike for trusting me with your special day. I had so much fun helping you through the process. You my friend are one talented woman and I can't wait to see all the amazing new things you will be making. The ceremony was one of the most heart warming, funny, and connected I've ever been a part of. I love how Mike's uncle made every single person feel a part of your bond. It was beautiful.

Easter Sunday Brunch

Sun, 04 Apr 2010 15:42:11 -0700

I hope everyone is having a lovely Easter Sunday. After a gorgeous wedding on good Friday (details will be posted next week), and meetings all day Saturday, it was nice to sit back and enjoy a day with my family. I'm so blessed to be surrounded by friends and family that love and support me. Days like today make me realize how lucky I truly am for my friends and family. Today was a perfect sunny day for a back yard brunch. No detail is ever left behind at the Randazzo home.

Sunflowers to great you at the entrance.

Tulips and homemade yellow, chocolate, chocolate chip cake.

A spread of my favorite recipes. Ham, chile relleno casserole, cheesy sour cream potatoes, spinach walnut strawberry salad, fruit and french toast for those with a sweet tooth.

One lucky little man had an Easter to remember. The perks of being the only kid in the family. Memere made Rocco's little face light up with all the goodies in his basket.

A basket full of eggs ready to be hidden for the one man egg hunt.

It was adorable watching little Rocco find all his eggs.

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter. There is nothing more important than spending with with family. Now it's time to relax and enjoy the rest of my day.

NOZZA Fest Art Theatre of Long Beach

Sat, 27 Mar 2010 16:28:12 -0700

Eight months prior to NOZZA Fest actually coming to a fruition, I had a crazy idea of planning a weekend long music festival. I figured how hard can it possibly be, after all I plan weddings all year long. Oh my friends, it is not as simple as a wedding. The thing with weddings is that you always know exactly how many people are showing up. My nerves almost got the best of me that night. Although my initial destination had to be canceled due to some unforeseen issues, I manged to secure a venue locally in Long Beach. The newly renovated Art Theatre of Long Beach was the perfect setting for an intimate evening of music. Myself and about 150 other local music enthusiast had the pleasure of enjoying some unique and intimate performances.

I have to thank the amazing, talented, and patient artists who performed that evening. Tadhg Cooke started out his three month long U.S west coast to east coast tour at NOZZA Fest. I had the pleasure of having him as a guest in my home. The perks were endless. Morning walks to my favorite breakfast place, conversations about everything and anything under the moon, he managed to fix my broken laptop *kuddos*, and as if that wasn't enough he rehearsed in my studio while I worked. Ah, I miss you Tadhg. He safely made his way across the terrible storm the east coast had this winter and recently made his way back home in Ireland.

Jay Buchanan I don't even know where to begin to thank you. Your music speaks to my soul. You write the most amazing lyrics and sing with a voice that just penetrates throughout. I'm still getting calls, random people stopping by the studio and emails asking me where will you be performing next. You definitely left an impression on all those who came out to see the show. I had the pleasure of listening to Jay last week as he performed at The Hotel Cafe and just like before I was left speechless with his talent. Thank you for not only performing at NOZZA Fest but for genuinely being one of the most kind people I've ever met.

Several years ago in a small little room known to many as Room 5, I discovered what is the sexiest artist I know, Shane Alexander. There are very few artist that I can say after each album continues to pique my interest. Shane is one of those artists that continues to evolve and always gives 110% of himself in every performance. Whether it is performing solo in a small room or rocking out with his band he always gives all of him on stage. Shane is currently finishing his fourth album "Mono Solo", we're all anxiously awaiting its release. Thank you Shane for being a part of my little crazy idea. This has definitely motivated me to continue following my bliss, hopefully there will be many more to come.

Last but not least my lovely friends Kevin and Mick, better known as The Guggenheim Grotto, closed the show. I will never forget the first time I ever heard "Cold Truth" off their A Lifetime in Heat [EP] (you can download for free if you click on link). It is still one of my favorite songs of all the albums they have released. It's been an amazing friendship throughout the years. Lots of traveling between Los Angeles and Ireland. I'm truly one lucky girl. The lads are currently in the east coast finishing up the first leg of their eight month long tour in the U.S. If you haven't had a chance to see them perform they will be back on the road in a month. Thank you for traveling all the way from Ireland and starting off your tour with NOZZA Fest. We anxiously await your return.

Photos Henry Chen Photography
Venue Art Theatre of Long Beach
Poster Design Monica Majors of Paper Cut Industries
Special thank to Rand Foster of Fingerprints for his mad skills in promoting local music.

Thank you to everyone that came out to support local music. I hope to continue the effort and am currently planning the next crazy NOZZA Fest concert.

NOZZA Featured On Nonpareil Magazine Issue #2

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 12:30:17 -0700

So this is what wedding professional do on their off season. There are days that I like to convince myself that there is actually a "wedding season" and an "off season" but the truth of the matter is that as wedding professional we are always creating and working. It's a love affair with all things wedding.

This past month while having a conversation with Erica O'Brien Cake Design about our new The Wedding Clique blog (we're getting a face lift check back next month) featuring real weddings incorporating our love for .... "his, her, and forever theirs" design concepts, we decided to submit one of ours to the latest and greatest new online wedding magazine Nonpareil.

I was recently asked on an interview by the Style Network "what is your signature style?" I really never gave it that much thought before but the best way I can describe it is a bit like Thom Filicia. I love to incorporate lifestyle, design and each individuals personality to create a cohesive wedding that represents both the bride and the groom. This project is a perfect example on how it all comes together.

No wedding can ever be completed without the creative driving force that is every professional wedding vendor. I want to thank Deanne of Bella Fiore, Henry of Henry Chen Photography, Erica of Erica O'Brien Cake Design, Monica of Paper Cut Industries, and Liz of The Ebell Club it takes a team to make it all happen. I'm fortunate to work with such talented individuals.

Click here --> Nonpareil Magazine Issue #2

Queen Mary and Sky Room Engagement Session Photos: Ivis & Mike

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 21:03:57 -0700

Six months ago during a house warming party my dear friends Ivis and Mike surprised us all by announcing they were engaged. I couldn't be more happier for her. She is an amazing person and I'm thrilled to be a part of their special day. Shortly after the announcement another surprise, the date was set. She asked me "do you think we can plan a wedding in four months?" Absolutely! So here we are less 36 days away from the bid day.

I'm fortunate to have some amazing vendors working with me on such a short notice. Always impressed by Henry Chen and his mad photography skills. Thank you so much for always taking care of my clients, extra thanks when you treat my friends like your own. For more shots of the e-session click here.

Ivis is also a very crafty and talented jewelry designer. I'm looking forward to all the DYI projects she's taken on with so little time to plan. You can follow her wedding planning thoughts as she blogs about all the planning on Anythig Sparkly,

Union Station and Pasadena E-Sessesion - Melissa + Bernie

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 11:32:52 -0700

I've had so much fun planning these two crazy kids wedding. I'm excited about all the little details we have in store for their wedding day. I have Rafael and Kristin to thank for referring them to me. It's always great when your clients love what you do and with enthusiasm tell their friends.

Henry of Henry Chen Photography will be shooting their wedding. It's always a pleasure to work with him. This wedding will be no different. I love how he always manages to capture each couples individual personality. For more pictures click E-Session.

E-Session done, next up hand illustrated wedding invitations by my amazing artist friend NCG of Arte Crisol.