Expert Event Linen Design and Inspiration

What Can The Right Linens Do For Your Event?

When planning your event, whether it’s a wedding, birthday party, bat/bar mitzvah, social, or corporate event, you want absolutely everything to be perfect. A great starting point is to pick out your colors. Once you have chosen the colors for your event, you will then need to decide how you would like to showcase those colors. There are many colors and fabrics available for specialty linens at Linens by the Sea, and you can mix and match them to create any style or color combination for your event.

No matter the color or pattern, the right linen can transform event décor. Table linens, napkins, and runners that come standard with our packages can be exchanged for luxury options that will enhance your event’s overall look and feel. Exquisite linens can be the statement piece of a table that will save money later when wedding venue decorations won’t need to go the extra mile to compensate for, essentially, a standard empty table.

Highlight Key Details

Show off your event’s color scheme with solid color linens in our stunning hue color options. Fabrics like satin, damask, pintuck, or organza will provide a sophisticated look to table settings, and they will look absolutely stunning. You don’t have to fill the entire room with pattern or texture, but using it tactfully can make those important pieces really stand out. Choose key stations where all the action will be, like the head table, cake table, and escort card table.  Make them stand out with a pop of color, pattern, or different texture. They’ll attract guests’ eyes, letting them know they’re important.

Building That Cruccendo

You can transform each portion of your event (welcome, ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception) into distinct moments with your choice of colors and linens. Starting with a more traditional neutral pallet for the ceremony can leave space for bold colors later in the cocktails hour and beyond.

Pairing Patterns and Textures

Just like in fashion, mixing linen patterns and textures can enhance your wedding’s overall feel. Start with a bold (dominant) pattern to define your palette. From there, choose a smaller-scale pattern with the same colors. Finally, pull in a neutral solid to allow for a visual rest. The same goes for textured linens, too.

Mixing two different textures can add depth and dimension to a room. Textured tablecloths such as lace overlays can give that “White Wedding” look, but with hints of color from the base linen peeking through. It could be the significant detail that sticks with a guest as they look back on how elegant the evening felt.

Sometimes subtle lace accents are too demure for the type of event you’re envisioning. If you are looking for a different kind of contrast or a more dramatic effect, you can use black as your base with your other chosen colors as accents. This black sequined linen adds a bit of edge, class and allows for simple decorations!

Photo by Walter Wilson Studios

On the opposite end of the spectrum, where we live and breathe pink, this linen above has the similar benefit of allowing for smaller, simpler decorations. It also adds a fun air of cheerfulness and buoyancy because of the texture.

Photo by True Photography

If you’re looking down a more glamorous avenue, but the idea of collecting a dozen sparkly centerpieces is daunting, perhaps some dazzling sequined linens are exactly what you need! All the glitz and glam allows for simpler decorations, a thrifty trick!

And who says that you have to use solid colors for your linens or event theme? Consider using prints such as polka dots, stripes, animal prints, plaids, or other motifs. Decorative runners could be the economical solution to this issue. With bright pops of color to tie in with the floral arrangements, a fun napkin choice can polish everything off for the perfect constructed tablescape!

Specialty Linens For A Special Day

Even if your wedding is more relaxed, there are a few formal details that keep the day feeling special. Specialty Linens and cloth napkins at a BBQ can send the right message; that the occasion is important.

A great way to seem more casual and possibly save on linen costs is to have Farm Tables! Farm Tables with their minimalist motif tend to use large sprawling garlands down the center to fill space. Using linen napkins is a great way to enhance your table settings. Try napkins intricately folded or in contrasting hues to create a distinctive look for your event. Table runners can add color and style to any table, and they would still allow for some table exposure.

Just ask our gifted Coordinators to help introduce you to our endless Linen Upgrade options!

Let’s discuss how you and your event planner can create different looks and moods with your specialty linen choices. For more ideas and suggestions for using color and specialty linens, reach out to our fantastic event planning team!

Event Catering Within Your Desired Budget

Know Your Options!

Whether you are planning a private party at home, wedding, reception, or corporate event, catering is one aspect that is sure to be remembered. Like many clients, you may have a grand vision for your event catering, with a lavish menu to match. Or, you may prefer to keep it simple and unassuming. No matter the scenario, our event and wedding catering packages are designed to be flexible for our clients, with many options to choose from.

When talking with our San Diego wedding catering company, we will take your desired budget into account, making the best recommendations to fit your needs. With a little information, we will start providing helpful and knowledgeable insight into making your event exceptional. By the time you contact us, your event’s details may already be determined, like the event date, venue, and general timeline. Other aspects may still be considered: the target number of guests, event theme, and specific meal preferences. By learning what has been decided and where our insight will be most beneficial, we will begin creating a big day plan.

When making recommendations around your budget, we will ensure we can provide the highest service level without sacrificing quality. Because of our wide variety of options, we find that our price range for wedding and event catering is typically attainable for most potential clients.

Here are a few areas to consider when anticipating how to budget for catering services:

Number of Guests

If possible, it is helpful to have a general idea of the headcount expected. This way, we can consider the scale of the dining options and the staff needed, and the length of preparation time required. We understand this number may fluctuate a bit in the days leading to the wedding or event, but if we have a basic target at the beginning, we can make more accurate recommendations. If the headcount changes before the event (which happens all the time), we have built-in solutions for this, which we will explain when talking over the event planning.

Experience

Hiring a catering company with a depth of knowledge means they will help you budget effectively, communicate throughout the process, and be transparent with costs. When evaluating the right catering service provider, it is ideal if the caterer has done a large number of events similar to yours. This may include experience at your specific venue and at larger events, so you have confidence that their capabilities measure up. If you are planning an event at a non-traditional venue, such as a park, beach, or private residence, it will be imperative to bring on a top-level professional who understands the costs involved and will help you plan accordingly. Our San Diego event and wedding catering company has worked at nearly every local venue countless times throughout our decades of experience. We truly understand the ins and outs, prepare for unforeseen circumstances, and what kinds of budgetary considerations to make during the planning process.

Ask for Recommendations

When we meet with clients and wedding couples, we are always happy to give advice and a range of choices. For example, if the budget allows, we may get creative with a classic favorite and give it a gourmet twist. If a more cost-efficient alternative is needed, we will share options that have worked well for other clients. We want our clients to be thrilled and always have your best interest in mind, which you will see reflected on review websites like Yelp and WeddingWire. Our San Diego event catering company strives to consistently provide the highest value and service possible and create amazing experiences across all budget levels.

Cuisine Selection

When clients consult with our San Diego wedding catering company, we help choose a cuisine to match the event style and theme. For example, our recommendations will be different for an outdoor garden wedding than an evening ballroom reception. Creating a menu that best suits the event and understanding the factors involved can help you budget costs accordingly.

Additional Services

Along with our event catering, we offer additional services that clients and wedding couples often need. For example, we provide options for rentals, bar services, tenting, and decor, which can be added for more full-scale event production. These all-inclusive packages help you manage your budget because you can accomplish a lot, all in one place, and apply your budget accordingly. Instead of dealing with lots of vendors and negotiating their individual price structures, we make it easy. We also have a wide network of partner vendors we have worked with for years and who we believe will provide the best service and value for your event. If you are looking for a particular service and would like options within your event budget, please ask us. Most likely, we will have a solution or recommendation for you.

Reach Out

Whether you are starting to determine your price range for event catering or fully understanding your budget, it will be beneficial to talk with us. We will help you make the best decisions for your San Diego wedding catering services, plan a menu to match and start creating an amazing experience for your big day.

Trendiest Event Chair Options of 2021

You’ve painstakingly perfected your tablescape but the most commonly overlooked feature of an event design? The seating.

It goes without saying that chairs at your event are essential, but we understand how they could be pushed to the back burner when bigger planning factors are considered. The types of chairs you choose will affect your wedding decor and overall aesthetic. They’ll be in a lot of your wedding photos — and depending on the size of your guest list, you could have hundreds of them throughout your venue. Even if you only invest in a few special chairs for your sweetheart table and keep the rest simple, we think being educated on your options is worth it!

 

Chiavari Chairs

This faux-bamboo option has been around forever and was the pioneer in the early 2000s when looking for an “elevated” level of sophisticated seating. They’re most often used at traditional weddings and very formal events and can be left bare or dressed up with fabric covers. Chiavari chairs are most commonly seen at events in natural wood, neutral tones, or metallics, but some rental companies offer bright colors, pastels, or even transparent varieties. Tie-on seat cushions enhance guest comfort and are usually available in white, ivory, or black.

“Ghost” Chairs

These event chairs are made entirely of acrylic or lucite. Ghost chairs provide the most modern look for your big day and are typically used in a clear finish for a sleek, minimalist effect. If you want to go bold, they’re also available in opaque black, translucent gray, pink, blue, green, and orange. Ghost chairs are easy to keep clean and won’t clash with other decor or furnishings. Use two for the sweetheart table, just a few at small tables in a Moving Style Event, or use these for the whole room!

Ghost Chair Seating Upgrade

Folding Chairs

By far, the most popular chairs for outdoor events are the classic Folding or Lawn chairs. A popular option for outdoor weddings and events, these folding chairs can be left alone or easily dressed up using adornments like small floral arrangements or other aisle markers. An option that’s easy on your wallet, they’re available in various colors to match the theme color(s) of your event.

Wooden folding chairs make an ideal choice for couples who want a hint of sophistication without too much fuss. Folding chairs are a go-to for designers who plan on repurposing a single space for several functions. These chairs can be set-up and stowed quickly to transition from ceremony to reception fluidly.

Cross-back Chair

These chairs are taking the wedding world by storm. Reminiscent of what we imagine would reside at an Italian vineyard, these chairs are beautiful. They’re usually seen in a natural wood finish with the signature “X” on the back. Cross-back chairs offer photo-ready rustic elegance and are among the most popular wedding chair styles for farms, gardens, vineyards, and barn venues.

Professional Insight

Looks aside, when selecting a chair for your event, imagine you are a guest. Ask yourself whether you’d be comfortable sitting in that chair for the duration of the wedding, corporate event, or another occasion. Here are a few other important considerations professional event designers use to factor into their overall decisions:

  • Will the event be indoors or in a covered area?
  • If the event is outdoors, will the chairs be on an even or uneven surface?
  • How long will guests be sitting? Consider padded chairs for seated events longer than one hour.
  • Chairs often appear in event photos, so select chairs that complement your event’s aesthetic.
  • Do you need specialty seating such as high chairs, barstools, booster seats, etc.?
  • What will your guests be wearing? Choose a style that will match the tone of the event!

Interested? Need an Expert Opinion?

Reach out to our talented Event Coordination and Planning Team! From logistics to style, their experience makes them capable of answering any questions you might have.

“Professional, Caring, and Extremely Efficient” | Event Planner Review

We Appreciate Julie For Such A Glowing Review!

 

 

We love the incredible Event Planning family here in San Diego!

We pride ourselves on being a company that the professionals go to when they have their clients’ best interests at heart. With all of Julie’s experience with other San Diego caterers and their food, we’re elated to know our product is her first choice!

Thanks again for taking the time to review us, Julie! We can’t wait to work with you again soon!

Avoid These Mistakes When Picking A San Diego Caterer!

As a trusted and experienced San Diego caterer, event planning company, and connected vendor in the San Diego Entertainment Industry, we feel it’s our duty to help guide anyone towards the best recommendations for a successful event. While planning your event, avoid becoming one of the many horror stories we hear about. Don’t randomly select vendors without doing your research! At least check the company’s reviews from top review sites such as The Knot, Wedding Wire, and Yelp. If you see that the company has won awards or proudly displays referrals from other companies, you can trust that they’re trustworthy professionals.

When deciding on the right San Diego event catering company to fit your event’s unique needs, here are a few things to watch for!

Know Your Budget for a San Diego Caterer

When evaluating San Diego catering companies, it helps to have an overall sense of what you can spend, along with the level of quality you would like to see. If an expert catering company is close to or a bit over your expected budget, it will be worthwhile to have a conversation, especially if top catering is a priority. A highly experienced company will develop ideas and suggestions to work within your budget without cutting corners. Sometimes, clients hesitate to reach out if they are not sure the pricing will line up, but we are always happy to talk with couples and provide our best recommendations.

Ask About Extra Charges

When planning event catering for our clients or customizing an all-inclusive event package, we take the extra steps to explain each part of our process and what will be included. This promotes a shared understanding of the services provided, with no hidden fees or charges. We don’t believe in surprises that have not been discussed and approved. When talking with a San Diego event catering company, you will want to ensure they are fully transparent about their price structure (ex: whether they charge per guest), what your total package includes, and adjustments available to give you flexibility leading up to the event. An upstanding catering company will communicate well, make you feel comfortable, and answer any questions you may have.

Share Your Style

Highlight your personality on the day of the event! Through the venue, theme, and especially the menu served, you should be able to customize every last detail. When we are brought on as your professional San Diego caterer of choice, we want your event to be uniquely yours. As we get to know you, we will make recommendations that are reflective of your personal style. Along with time-tested favorites and seasonal recipes, we can look for ideas that are particularly suited to your preferences and tastes. If there is something specific that you have been dreaming about, share and inspire us. Clients may think that they should let the vendors do all the talking, but we want to hear from you!

Lois Mathews Designs | San Diego Vendor Spotlight!

Lois Mathews Designs

“Best Wedding Floral Design in San Diego”

Elegant and timeless always, Lois Mathews Designs is a fine art floral design service. Experienced in nearly every motif, from sleek and modern to romantic elegance, their commitment is wholeheartedly devoted to each client being overjoyed with their blooms.

Weddings, corporate events, and editorial shoots are no stranger to Lois Mathews’ magical touch. She offers full-spectrum floral design, from the smallest details to large-scale installations. She specializes in customizing unique floral pieces to fit each event’s individual aesthetic.

Contact

Phone: 858-774-2850

Email: lois@loismathews.com

Fresh Spring 2021 Signature Drinks!

3 of Our Favorite Spring Cocktails!

Benches pulled out of storage, umbrellas unfurled, and cocktail menus retooled to match the coming-alive world. Looking back at this time last year, much of your springtime drinking likely happened in the confines of your home (and your backyard, if you’re lucky enough to have one). This year, with vaccines coming out, there’s hope that things will slowly go back to normal. So, it seems appropriate to whip something up to celebrate this coming season!

Elderflower Cocktail With Champagne

Elderflower Cocktail Recipe With Champagne

An elderflower cocktail is a fantastic, refreshing cocktail that will make a delightful addition to brunch or any garden party. It is both floral and sparkling, the perfect drink to enjoy on a spring day.

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
  • 3 ounces champagne (or dry white wine)
  • 1-ounce club soda (or soda water)
  • Lemon twist

Instructions

  1. After gathering the ingredients, pour the liqueur and champagne into a chilled cocktail glass over ice.
  2. Top with club side, stir well and garnish with a lemon twist.
  3. Enjoy!

 

Springtime Rosé Spritzer

Spring Rose Spritzer

This easy-sipper is light and refreshing, without being too heavy in alcohol. It’s a group favorite and great for any occasion but reminds us of Mother’s Day Brunches, Tea Parties, and Bridal Showers.

Instructions

  1. Place 1 – 2 tablespoons of fresh strawberries and 2 – 3 lemon slices in the bottom of an old-fashioned glass.
  2. Muddle well until juicy.
  3. Fill glass with ice to the top.
  4. Add rosé, then top with sparkling water or club soda to taste.
  5. Garnish with fresh mint and lemon.

 

Spiked Cucumber Lemonade

Take a favorite classic Cucumber Lemonade and add a little bit of Spice. Our go-to recipe is made with fresh ingredients to really bring out that springtime feel!

Ingredients

  • 3 ounces fresh lemon juice
  • 3 ounces fresh cucumber juice
  • 2 ounces gin
  • 2 ounces simple syrup
  • Club soda

Instructions

  1. In a tall glass, combine the lemon juice, cucumber juice, gin, and simple syrup. Stir.
  2. Add ice and top off with club soda.
  3. Taste and add more simple syrup if more sweetness is desired.
  4. Garnish with lemon and cucumber slices.
  5. Enjoy!

 

 

New Children’s Museum Wedding | Client Review

We love leaving a client with the best memories of their special events.

This happy bride knew exactly what she wanted, and working with her was an absolute dream!

 

Thanks for leaving such a stunning review, Ashley!

We’re beyond delighted by your wonderful words, and we’re so glad your wedding was everything you dreamed about and more!

 

Client’s Voted “Favorite Seated Entrees!”

We asked our clients to vote for their favorite Seated Entree meals, and here are the results!

We use only the finest ingredients for your event. Made fresh on-site, we deliver each steaming plate straight to the table for you and your guests’ dining pleasure. Each meal has that personal touch to bring it to the next level of beautifully delicious cuisine. For Weddings, Corporate, and Private Events, a Seated Dinner is an elegantly timeless dining option.

Braised Beef Short Ribs

Our famous Braised Beef Short Ribs are the unanimous favorite with our clients and their guests! We most enjoy the classic pairing of our savory ribs with fresh carrots and our decadent creamy Garlic Whipped Potatoes.

 

Chicken Romano

In a close second place was our Chicken Romano. Stuffed with hearty mushrooms and spinach, then decadently topped with our homemade Alfredo Sauce, it was a toss-up on which place this dish would fall. We love pairing this entree with our Basalmic Glazed Brussel Sprouts for an added depth of flavor.

 

Grilled Vegetable Lasagna

Our Grilled Veggie Lasagna tempts even the most devoted carnivores to come back for seconds. Packed to the brim with an array of grilled and roasted veggies, this entree isn’t just for the Vegetarians. Our homemade Marinara is sure to win over everyone, and we guarantee that your guests want this secret family recipe!

 

Pistachio-Crusted Mahi Mahi with Coconut Curry Sauce

This spin on our classic Crusted Mahi Mahi is perfect for clients looking for a unique entree that their guests will remember. The creamy Coconut Curry Sauce is a delightful flavor to compliment the Pistachio-crusted Mahi Mahi. Served with our succulent Whipped sweet Potatoes, the dish is well balanced and bright!

 

Impress your guests with our exquisite plating!

Contact us TODAY for menu options at your future event!

 

Thanks to True Photography for all these mouth-watering photos of our favorites!

 

Talk With A Professional Event Catering Expert

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