Events by Maria

What I’ve Learned After 40 Years of Marriage – Temecula Wedding Planner

Posted on August 11, 2020November 28, 2021 by Maria Gardea in What I've Learned After 40 Years of Marriage

Hi there! I know, it’s been forever since I have posted a Blog! I have been focusing on my Podcast; From the Ring to Everything, but I noticed that I really miss writing, so here I am!

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My husband and I recently celebrated our 40^th wedding anniversary! Yes, 40 Years! I still can’t believe it when I say it; mainly because there is no way I am old enough to be married that long.

As I look back on our many years together, I realized how much things changed over the years, not in a bad way, but in a different and better way.

Several of our friends get married around the same time we did and many of those couples are still together and sadly, some are not. It saddens me when I hear of a marriage breaking up and I do my best to offer whatever advice I can.

Don’t get me wrong, we have had our share of problems and challenges throughout the years, heck, marriage is no fairytale. It’s hard work, challenging and messy at times and you need to work at it every day. Thankfully, we never gave up and we learned to focus on the things that really matter. So, I decided to share some advice to help you have a long and happy marriage. Enjoy…

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1. Be Respectful and Considerate.

I know, this seems like a no brainer, but it’s not always that easy. When you are mad at each other or get in an argument, you just want to vent and tell it like it is. That’s fine, express your frustration and anger, but NEVER resort to name calling or using profanity to each other. This can be very damaging and hurtful to one another and let’s face it, when you make up, those words stay in your head and you can’t undo them.

2. Don’t Air Your Dirty Laundry.

What do I mean by this? Well, avoid involving others into your problems. I’m not saying you can’t talk to a good friend or parent for advice, but don’t start bashing each other to friends, family and especially on social media! Talk to each other, but more importantly, listen to each other. It’s not a debate to see who “won”, it’s about being heard and moving on from there.

3. Don’t Stop Dating.

You do not have to go somewhere fancy every weekend (unless you want to), but do make time out of your day, week or month to spend some time together. Unplug from electronics and social media for a few hours and just enjoy hanging out with each other. Catch up on how each of you are doing or what you are struggling with, try something new, pick up a hobby or activity you can both enjoy, in other words, have FUN. It’s easy to loose ourselves in the everyday things of life; jobs, kids, sports, school, etc. When you finally reach the “empty nest” stage or retirement, it will just be the two of you again, so don’t forget who you are as a couple. This is your time to enjoy a new chapter of life together.

4. Support Each Other.

It’s natural to grow and change in a relationship over time, if there is no growth or change, then you’re in trouble. Where couples seem to drift apart is when they grow separately and not together. Of course, as an individual you should continue to grow as a person and develop your own interest or career path, but you should support each other and grow together as a couple too. Help one another acheive these goals.

5. Communicate and Listen.

Communication and listening is key to a good marriage and there are times I still struggle with this. Sometimes the conversations are hard to have or to hear. Discussing goals, finances, fears, things that bother you, parenting, in-laws, career changes, etc. are not easy conversations at times. But if you do not talk about issues or problems, it is very hard for the other person to know how you feel or what is bothering you, so how can they change or correct it. It’s not easy, but it is necessary, especially when it comes to the big stuff. The last thing you want to do is to let things build up and you start to resent the other person.

6. Recognize and Celebrate your Spouse’s Quirks and Differences.

Yup, that’s what I said. We all have some annoying habits and quirks, but isn’t that one of things that attracted you in the first place?

7. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff.

You know the old saying; “you don’t really know someone until you live with them”, that is very true when it comes to the things that annoy us. We all have something that probably bugs the heck out each other. But which ones are you willing to constantly “nag” about? I love my husband, he is a great guy and a hard worker. However, in 40 years of marriage, he still cannot seem to get his clothes from the floor into the laundry basket or move his glass to the kitchen from wherever he set it down at! I used to get upset and nag about it all the time. Finally, I realized that I was getting so upset over something that was not a big deal to him, so why did I keep letting it bug me? I decided that while it does bug me, I’m not going to continue to let it bother me. I had to ask myself; “Is this the hill I really want to die on”? No. I know what to expect when I walk into the room and just pick them up and move on. Pick your battles and let the small stuff go…you will both be much happier for it.

9. Show Appreciation and Affection.

We are not perfect, so do not constantly point out their flaws or shortcomings, especially in front of others. Compliment the good things they do; such as how hard they work or attending an event they aren’t that thrilled about, saving the last piece of dessert for you, or watching one of your favorite movies. Don’t be shy to show a little affection in public, like holding hands, giving each other a hug or kiss, or even saying thank you once in a while, it really goes a long way in showing your love and appreciation for one another.

9. Have a Sense of Humor.

You know what, life is messy and it throws a lot of curve balls at times. This is when you need to learn to have a sense of humor and sometimes say, “The heck with it, it is what it is”. Learn to add a little more laughter in your relationship. I promise, you WILL get through those tough and challenging times as long as you work through them together and learn to just let go.

10. Lift each other up.

Finally, one of the most important things you can do as a couple is pray for each other AND with each other. Marriage is a beautiful and wonderful sacrament. You are literally “dying to self”. Praying together is one of the most loving and intimate expressions of love you can show one another. If you are not a person of faith, lift each other up and affirm one another, be willing to be vulnerable.

So there it is, I hope this was helpful and you enjoyed reading it.

Here’s to a long and happy marriage!

Happy Planning…

Maria is a Wedding Planner who has been helping couples plan for their special day for over 10 years. She is bi-lingual and is located in Southern California. She travels throughout California and Mexico to help couples have the wedding of their dreams.

You can reach us by email at; eventsbymaria40@gmail.com

Follow Events by Maria on Facebook and Instagram @eventsbymaria1

Be sure to listen and subscribe to our Podcast, “From the Ring to Everything”, where we discuss everything from the engagement to the first year of marriage and everything in between. You can find it on iTunes, IHeart, Stitcher, Spotify and Google podcast or by clicking on the link on our website.

7 Costly Planning Mistakes Couples Make when Planning their Wedding//Temecula Wedding Planner

Posted on November 6, 2019November 5, 2019 by Maria Gardea in 7 costly mistakes when planning your wedding, Uncategorized

Hello and welcome back! With the Holidays just around the corner, there will be plenty of couples getting engaged over the next few months.

Today I list what I feel are the 7 most common mistakes couples make when planning their wedding that can end up costing them more than they bargained for.

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Many brides and maybe even some grooms, have probably dreamed of their wedding day even before they met their current partner. So, it’s easy to maybe jump right into wedding planning mode the minute you get engaged! Whoa….slow down. I know this is an exciting time, but take a few minutes and breath.

I know you may have been planning for this day for years, but now is not the time to start rushing and booking everything the first week!

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Here are a few tips to help you get the wedding of your dreams, without breaking the bank.

1. Know your Budget

I have said this so many times, but it cannot be said enough. You need to create a budget. I have worked with too many couples who underestimate what things cost and they end up going over what they wanted to spend. Be sure to sit down with your partner, your parents (if they are helping financially) and talk about what you can afford and what is most important and where you are willing to be flexible.

Remember, you don’t want to break the bank or put everything on a credit card, this is not a good way to start your married life. You don’t want to start off with a huge debt, it’s just not a good idea.

2. Spending too Much on the Wedding Dress

“But its’ my dream dress”…I know, this is the one day that you want to look your very best for your partner. You can do this, just be sure you know how much you are willing to spend and stick to it.

Be sure to allow for the extras that go with the dress like; the veil, alterations, special undergarments, accessories and possible shipping costs.

3. Flowers

Let’s face it, florals are beautiful and add so much to the look of the space. However, it is so easy to go overboard. Be sure to talk with a professional florist, know what flowers are in season at the time of your wedding, this is one way to save. Be creative, you don’t have to have a floral center piece at all the tables. Be sure to find out which flowers are more affordable and see how you can incorporate them into your vision.

4. Don’t Underestimate the cost of the Venue

Many couples are opting for outdoor venues, which are beautiful, but many couples seem to think that because it is outdoors it is cheaper. Not true, outdoor venues can be just as much, if not more than some indoor venues. Be sure to do your homework. Some venues offer “all inclusive” packages, but keep in mind, that there are still other expenses you will have. Make sure to ask questions and get everything in writing before you put a deposit on any venue.

5. Read your Contracts

The vendors you hire should all provide a contract which list the services being provided with a clear cost for those services. Be sure to read all contracts carefully before putting down the deposit and signing. Many contracts will have a clause for extra’s that you thought were part of the pricing, ask questions and be clear on what the price includes and what the extra charges are for other services; staff, travel, etc.

6. Hire Professionals

This should actually be listed on the top 2, but so many couples think that by hiring their friend or family member it will save them money. I can’t tell you how many times this ends up costing them more in the end. First, you should be working with a professional Wedding Planner or Coordinator (hi there…I am one). A professional planner is going to help you find the right vendors, look over the contracts and guide you with your budget. Also, professional vendors do this for a living, it’s not a hobby, so they are licensed and insured. They will be able to guide you in the decision making because they do this for a living. Also, they are going to have quality equipment and trained staff.

7. Know your Priorities

I understand that everything about your wedding day is important, but really sit and talk about what are the Most important must haves for you. Sit down and make a list of what is a must and what you are okay compromising on.

If the food is the most important, then be sure to allow more for that in your budget. If it is the DJ or Photographer, then you know you are okay with spending a bit more in those areas. Whatever it is, be sure to discuss these things before starting the planning process.

The most important thing I want to leave you with is this; enjoy your engagement time, take time away from planning and just spend time together. Most of all…enjoy your wedding day and have fun!

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As a Planner, I want to offer couples as much help as I can during the wedding planning process, because I understand how overwhelming it can be.

I go over more wedding planning suggestions and relationship topics on my Podcast; From the Ring to Everything, where I discuss everything from the engagement thru that first year of marriage. You can find it on ITunes, Spotify, Stitcher and iHeart Radio. Be sure to subscribe to the show!

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If you have any questions feel free to email me directly at eventsbymaria@outlook.com.

I love hearing from you so leave a comment to let me know your thoughts, questions or suggestions for future blogs and Podcast topics.

To request a copy of your FREE wedding planning guide, fill out the contact form and I will get it out to you right away.

Until next time, Happy Planning…

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Maria has been helping couples plan for their perfect day for over 10 years. She is bi-lingual and travels all over California and Mexico.

Welcome to The Chateau Raquel – Temecula Wedding Venue//Temecula Wedding Planner//So.Cal Planner//Mexico Planner

Posted on September 26, 2019September 26, 2019 by Maria Gardea in Chateau Raquel

Hello and welcome back! I know it’s been awhile, but life has been crazy busy. So much has been going on, but in a good way!

I am continuing my series on Wedding Venues. I recently held an event at The Chateau Raquel located in Temecula’s Wine Country. This is a beautiful venue located on top of a hill that overlooks the Temecula Valley.

Photo Credit: Jamielyn Craft

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The sunsets are to die for and will make the most amazing sunset photos for couples and photographers looking for that perfect shot!

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The venue has a very romantic and chic look. The market lights add the perfect romantic mood lighting and the way the venue layout is set up, you can easily create the look you want.

What I love about this venue are the beautiful views of the valley. Because it sits on top of a hill, you have the most amazing views no matter where you are.

They have a “grand” stair case from the parking area leading up to the venue that is a statement in itself. The bridal suite and groom’s area are both very large and roomy.

There is also a large common area for the bridal party to relax in; which includes comfortable couches and a kitchen for you to bring in food to make sure no one goes hungry while getting ready.

The on-site coordinator, Sheila Reyes is very accommodating and will make sure you are well taken care of. On a more practical note; the venue is very easy to get to and there is plenty of parking.

Photo Credit: Trista Maja Photography

Photo Credit: Trista Maja Photograpahy

Photo Credit: Trista Maja Photography

Photo Credit: Amber Linn Photography

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The venue allows you to bring in your own licensed & insured vendors, but they also have a list of preferred vendors in the event you need some assistance.

Venue pricing starts at $3500 and includes tables, chairs, set up & tear down.

If you want more information on The Chateau Raquel or want to schedule a tour, contact the venue coordinator, Sheila Reyes at: Reyessc951@yahoo.com or through their FB page at www.facebook.com/thechateauraquel

Photo Credit: Amber Linn Photography

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I hope you enjoyed reading about this venue as much as I did sharing it with you. I will continue my Venue Highlight Series with another new venue, so be sure to check my website regularly.

As a Planner, I want to offer couples as much help as I can during the wedding planning process, because I understand how overwhelming it can be.

I am starting a Podcast entitled; From the Ring to Everything, where I discuss everything from the engagement thru that first year of marriage. Be sure to look for it on I-Tunes & Spotify and subscribe to the show!

New Podcast coming in October

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If you have any questions feel free to email me directly at: eventsbymaria@outlook.com.

I love hearing from you so leave a comment to let me know your thoughts, questions or suggestions for future blogs and Podcast topics.

To request a copy of your FREE wedding planning guide, fill out the contact form and I will get it out to you right away.

Until next time, Happy Planning…

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Maria has been helping couples plan for their perfect day for over 10 years. She is bi-lingual and travels all over California and Mexico.

Portola Ranch-Venue Highlight-Temecula-Wedding-Planner

Posted on June 30, 2019 by Maria Gardea in Portola Ranch Venue Highlight, Uncategorized

Hello and welcome back! I am continuing my blog series on wedding venues. This month I want to introduce you to Portola Ranch.

Portola Ranch is a beautiful, privately owned Spanish style Hacienda. It is located just outside wine country in Temecula (Hemet) and it is beautiful. The owners, Ron & Karen, bought the property in 2010. They designed the house themselves in the style of a Spanish Hacienda and also designed the beautiful gardens.

Portola Ranch is a working ranch, but you would never know it when walking around the property. The rose garden is Karen’s baby and she takes care of the flowers and garden herself. Ron can constantly be found working to improve the property and the grounds. He is extremely handy and has built many of the details you will find as you tour the property.

Visitors to Portola Ranch would comment at how beautiful it is and that they should share it with others. So, in 2018 they opened Portola Ranch as one of Temecula’s newest Wedding Venues!

When you enter the property, you can’t help but notice the beautiful garden with the large fountain surrounded by colorful roses. Then as you walk along the corridors of the Spanish walkways, you see beautiful tiles, high wooden beams and beautiful arches all along the walk ways.

The patio area is a perfect location to host cocktail hour and take some amazing photos. I was there during the evening hours and was blown away at the sunset! The sky was a wonderful orange glow that set behind the hills that surround the venue. I could not help but imagine how amazing it would be to take photos with that sunset as your backdrop!

You can also take photos with the various ranch animals they have on property; horses, alpaca’s and goats. The animals love being part of the wedding photos and being the center of attention.

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Portola Ranch is currently offering some fantastic introductory pricing to couples getting married. What I LOVE about this venue is how accommodating the owners are and how they treat you like Family.

So, if you are looking for a unique and Budget Friendly venue to host your wedding, that your guest will love, then I highly recommend Portola Ranch.

If you want to read more about this amazing venue or schedule a tour, you can go to their Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/portolaranchweddings

To request a brochure and get pricing information, you can email the venue manager at: eventplanner@sylverweddings.com

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I hope you have enjoyed reading about this venue as much as I did sharing it with you. I will continue my Venue Highlight Series with a new venue each month, so be sure to check my website regularly and hit “follow” so you can be notified when the new blog has posted.

As a Planner, I want to offer couples as much help as I can during the wedding planning process, because I understand how overwhelming it can be.

To schedule your FREE consultation, be sure to fill out our contact form.

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If you have any questions feel free to email me directly at eventsbymaria@outlook.com.

I love hearing from you so leave a comment to let me know your thoughts, questions or suggestions for future blogs.

To request a copy of your FREE wedding planning guide, fill out the contact form and I will get it out to you right away.

Until next time, Happy Planning…

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Maria is bi-lingual and has been helping couples plan for their very special day for over 10 years. She is located in Temecula, CA and travels all over California and Mexico.

Mexico Weddings; A weekend in Rosarito –Temecula Wedding Planner- Mexico Wedding Planner

Posted on May 10, 2019 by Maria Gardea in Rosarito Beach Weddings, Uncategorized

Hello and welcome back! I am so excited that wedding season is here. I love being able to Celebrate Love with you!

If you are one of the many couples who recently became engaged, Congratulations! I am sure you are excited about planning the future with your new soon to be husband/wife. Before you dream too far ahead however, you are probably figuring out what type of wedding you want and what kind of budget you can afford.

Well, I have great news for you. Over the next few months, I will be visiting different venues throughout Southern California, including South of Border. The goal is to do the “leg” work for you. I will meet with the staff, tour the location and learn about the packages they offer.

So, are you ready to travel from the comfort of your computer? If so, let’s go….

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I decided to start my venue hunt south of the border in Rosarito Beach. If you have never been, Rosarito is about a 20-minute drive past the San Ysidro border crossing in San Diego. The signs are very clear, so it’s very easy to find your way. The roads are maintained well, however, you do go through a toll booth half way through (you will pay about $2.00).

I figured I would start with one of the more popular locations; The Rosarito Beach Hotel. I met with the Event Manager who was very nice and speaks English. They provide full wedding service packages to many Americans and the staff was super nice.

First of all, they are located right on the beach, which offers a beautiful setting. The have the property fenced off, so you still have your beautiful ocean view, but it is very private. You can have your ceremony at any one of the beautiful sites the property has. You can choose either an outdoor or indoor reception. They have several indoor banquet rooms as well as outdoor areas that can accommodate guests’ comfortably.

While I did not get a chance to see the newest wedding site they offer, I did see it from the ground. The space is located on the roof top of the hotels’ newest tower, so you can imagine the view you and your guests will have.

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If you want an elegant beach wedding on a smaller budget, then The Rosarito Beach Hotel is for you. I almost fell over when the manager discussed the various wedding packages they offer. Are you ready to be blown away?

They offer 3 wedding packages for you to choose from. All of the packages are based on a 100-person guest count, which they will adjust based on your actual expected guest count. So, it may be a bit lower if you have less then 100 guests and a bit more for over 100. Don’t worry, you can customize any of their packages to fit your needs.

Their packages range from $8600 to $16,550 for 100 guests. The packages are all inclusive, which means they provide the following services:

Ceremony & Reception site
Dinner – buffer or sit down
Champagne
Domestic liquor
Soft drinks
Flower center pieces
Bridal bouquet
DJ
Custom cake
Tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware

I was amazed at how much you get for your money! It also makes for a super fun weekend with family and friends. There is so much to do in Rosarito, that you don’t need to worry about how to entertain your guests’.

You are welcome to bring in some of your own vendors; like Photographer and Videographer, but there are professional vendors locally that you can choose from as well.

What a great way to celebrate your love and wedding with the people closest to you, by making a weekend out of it that is Fun, Beautiful, Memorable and Affordable.

So, are you ready to travel across the border to get married? If so, be sure to reach out to me and I will be happy to help make it happen!

Until next time….Happy Planning!

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If you have any questions feel free to email me directly at eventsbymaria@outlook.com.

I love hearing from you so leave a comment to let me know your thoughts, questions or suggestions for future blogs.

To request a copy of your FREE wedding planning guide, fill out the contact form and I will get it out to you right away.

Maria is bi-lingual in Spanish & English and has been helping couples plan for their very special day for over 10 years. She is located in Temecula, CA and travels all over California and Mexico.

10 Tips to help you say “Yes to the Dress” Shopping for your wedding Dress – Temecula Wedding Planner

Posted on February 4, 2019March 27, 2019 by Maria Gardea in 10 Tips when shopping for your Wedding Dress

Hello and welcome back! Happy 2019…I can’t believe we are at the start of a brand-New Year, where did 2018 go? If your Holidays were anything like mine, then the last couple of months are a blur.

I am super excited for the 2019 wedding season! If you are one of the many couples that got engaged over the Holidays…Congratulations!

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This is a very exciting and busy time for you; there is so much to decide and plan. I know it can get overwhelming at times…Shameless plug…Hire a Planner!

So, back to the topic at hand…. Wedding Dress Shopping!! One of the most personal and important items you will buy is your wedding dress. Your wedding dress will play a key role in how you feel on your wedding day. So here are a few tips to make your wedding dress shopping experience fun and memorable…

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1. Decide Your Style

Look through magazines or online to get an idea of what you like. If you like a particular designer, look at their website (if they have one) to see other dress styles.

2. How much can you Spend

Decide your budget. Is your dress budget included in your overall wedding budget or not? Will you be purchasing a veil? If so, include the cost in your budget. Also, allow for alteration costs’, shoes and any other items you may need to purchase for the dress. These additional costs can add up quickly, so be sure to know your max budget and then look at designs and styles that fit your budget.

3. Book the Appointment

Now that you have a style in mind and know your budget, make an appointment at a bridal boutique. I highly recommend Bridal Boutiques for the personal attention and experience. They generally allow 2-hours for your appointment, so if you plan on going to more than one shop, plan for it. I do not recommend going to more than three shops on the same day. Allow for drive time and select shops that are fairly close to each other or easy to get to. On a side note: I do not recommend David’s Bridal, unless you like the assembly line experience (just my opinion). Remember, it can take a few months for your dress to arrive, so don’t wait until the last minute to shop.

4. Pick your People

Invite your shopping entourage. Wedding dress shopping can be fun or it can be frustrating…so, be sure to invite family and friends that will help keep you stress free, know your style and will offer honest feedback (in a nice way). You want it to be a personal experience too, so try and limit the amount of people who go with you. Another reason you want to limit the number is because many Boutiques do not have the space to accommodate a large group.

5. Be Open

Don’t be afraid to try on something you would normally not wear. I have heard from so many brides over the years that the dress they ended up choosing was something they never thought they would have bought. So be open and flexible to different styles. Most all brides know how they want to look on their wedding day, but sometimes what they have in their head does not end up being what they really end up loving, so be open. *Side note: Be sure to see how well you can sit in the dress…you will not be standing all day at our wedding, so be sure you can sit in it comfortably.

6. Take it Easy on Yourself

Try not to be too critical of yourself when trying on dresses. Not all styles look good on all shapes, so if a dress you had your eye on is not the right one for your body type, that’s okay, don’t let it get you down. The PERFECT dress for YOU does exist, so do not get frustrated or discouraged.

7. Don’t Go Overboard

Limit the amount of dresses you try on. I’m not saying not to try on several dresses to see the style you like and looks good, but when you start getting into the 30+ number of dresses, you are going to start getting confused with what you want, frustrated and feel like you will never find your dress.

8. Trust Your Gut

You will know when you find “The Dress”. Many brides feel like they will not be able to decide on a dress, did they make the right choice, etc. Trust me, you WILL KNOW. Every bride (including my daughter) has those questions, but all of them have said that they just knew the minute they tried it on that this was Their Dress.

9. Enjoy the Day

Besides your wedding day, this is one of those days that you will always remember. Have fun, enjoy the day with your family and friends, have lunch, enjoy some wine, just enjoy the experience. This is something that is just for YOU, so make the day special and don’t let things you can’t control ruin the experience.

10. His Eyes Will Be On You

Finally, no matter what type of dress you end up wearing on your wedding day, you are going to look beautiful to your future husband. When he sees you at the other end of the aisle, his eyes will be focused on YOU. He is marrying YOU, not the dress, so while it is important to love the dress you wear, at the end of day, you will put the dress away and begin your new life together as Husband and Wife!

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Tell me about your wedding dress shopping experience and what advice you have to future brides when it comes to shopping for the perfect dress! Share your story in the comments, I would love to hear it.

Want to know my shopping experience with my own daughter, click here:

Here is video of my daughter saying “Yes to the Dress”

@Klienfelds Bridals – New York, NY

@Hailey Paige Designs – Bridal Gown

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If you have any questions feel free to email me directly at eventsbymaria@outlook.com.

I love hearing from you, so leave a comment and let me know your thoughts, questions or suggestions for future blogs.

To request a copy of your FREE wedding planning guide, fill out the contact form and I will get it to you right away.

Until next time, Happy Planning…

Maria is bi-lingual in Spanish & English and has been helping couples plan for their very special day for over 10 years. She is located in Temecula, CA and travels all over California and Mexico.

It’s the End of 2018 As We Know It-Temecula Wedding Planner

Posted on December 26, 2018 by Maria Gardea in It's the End of 2018 As We Know It, Uncategorized

Merry Christmas!!

Hello and welcome back…I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas holiday. I can’t believe how quickly this year went by.

I know for me the year flew by. It is hard to remember everything that happened over the past 12 months! Every year I learn something new and this year was no different. I had the opportunity to work with amazing vendors and was able to assist other planners at some venues I had not worked at before.

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There are so many things that I am grateful for that it’s hard to put into words. First and foremost, I am thankful for my family and all the incredible couples I met and had the pleasure of working with. Thank you for trusting me with one of the most important days of your life. I was honored to be able to play a small role in your love story.

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I wrapped up my last wedding of 2018 on December 21^stat Owl Creek Farms in Temecula. It was a beautiful day filled with so much love….it was a beautiful thing to witness. This is the reason I love doing what I do. Being able to see two people become one and two families come together to Celebrate Love is an amazingly beautiful thing.

I am so thankful that I get to do what I love and I am excited for the New Year. I want to thank all the wonderful couples & vendors I worked with in 2018 and I am excited to see what 2019 has in store!

As we enter into the New Year, I would like to wish you a very Happy New Year! May it be full of love, laughter and happiness…

Cheers to 2019!!

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If you have any questions feel free to email me directly at eventsbymaria@outlook.com.

I love hearing from you, so leave a comment and let me know your thoughts, questions or suggestions for future blogs.

To request a copy of your FREE wedding planning guide, fill out the contact form and I will get it to you right away.

Until next time, Happy Planning…

Maria is bi-lingual in Spanish & English and has been helping couples plan for their very special day for over 10 years. She is located in Temecula, CA and travels all over California and Mexico.

Whose Wedding Is It Anyway? Part 3; When You are a Planner and the Mom, Wedding Day! Temecula Wedding Planner

Posted on November 17, 2018November 17, 2018 by Maria Gardea in Uncategorized, Whose Wedding Is It Anyway-Part 3-Wedding Day

Hello and welcome back! I am happy to report that I survived the wedding. I am so excited to finally be able to share this incredible day with you.

If you have been following my journey the last few months, I have shared my experience as Mother of the Bride when you are also a Planner. I will have to admit, it was hard, but I did a pretty good job of letting go!

The week leading up to the wedding was a bit stressful, but that is not uncommon with all the last-minute details that have to be taken care of.

The Wedding Rehearsal

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The day was beautiful and went off perfectly! With the exception of the evening being a bit colder than we expected it to be. The lesson here is that you can never predict what Mother Nature is going to do, so if you are planning an outdoor event, have heaters on standby.

I cannot put into words what I was feeling the week leading up to the wedding. My emotions were everywhere; stressed, calm, nervous, happy and sad. I have a whole new appreciation for what “moms” go through when their daughter is getting married.

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The morning started at 7:30 a.m. with hair and makeup. Sandra Michelle Artistry did such an amazing job. She arrived on time and Michelle and her team were great! They were funny, friendly and it was a great experience.

*My advice; mom’s, take the time to get your hair and makeup done with your daughter and her bridal party, it is an experience you will treasure forever.

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The morning was very relaxed and not rushed, which made it that much nicer. As it got closer to noon, we headed up to the Bridal Room to meet the photographer, Sydney from London Light Photography.

Sydney and her husband, who was the 2^ndshooter at the wedding, did an amazing job of capturing the day perfectly! Everyone felt super comfortable around them and my daughter was able to really enjoy the experience. I can’t wait to see all the photos and share them in future blog posts!

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Us mom’s get to share so much of the planning experience with our daughters, but dads don’t always get to. My husband knew the vision and was very much the DIY dad, so he was very involved in the “project” end of the wedding, but had no idea what her dress looked like. He wanted to wait until the wedding day to see her.

They did a first look and it was such an amazing and beautiful moment. I stood in the background as she went up to him and tapped him on the shoulder. It was an emotional moment for me to see her and my husband have that special moment together…yes, I teared up.

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The venue looked amazing and I can’t thank all the vendors enough for the amazing job they did that day so that I could just be “mom”.

I thought it was going to be hard for me to let go of my “Planner” hat, but it was easier than I thought. When you hire professional vendors you trust, it is easy to relax and enjoy the day and really be “in the moment”.

At the start of this journey I shared how I had a vision for my daughter’s wedding and I was not sure how much I would be able to let go and follow her vision. I can say this, I am very happy with the day and I am glad I allowed myself to “let go” and see her vision because this day was about her and her new husband, and not me and my vision.

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Here is some advice for both Brides and Moms:

My advice to brides; Include your mom in your planning, ask for her thoughts and advise on things. Be willing to compromise and incorporate somethings that are important to her. It’s okay, your day will still be what you want it to me. Enjoy this time together; from wedding dress shopping to food tasting, have fun and enjoy the many little moments.

My advice to moms; Enjoy every step of this journey with your daughter, be in the moment. If something is really important to you, let her know and ask if she is okay with it, but also be okay if she says no.

This is such a special day for not only you as her mom, but for your daughter. She is starting a new chapter in her life and as hard as it is, we need to let go. Trust me, this is coming from a mom who is also a Planner, so believe me when I say, “I get it”.

My advice to both bride and mom; Yes, there will be times when one or both of you may get a bit frustrated, that is normal and OKAY, just don’t let it ruin the rest of the experience of this very special time in both your lives. Enjoy every minute of it…it goes by faster than you realize….

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Finally, be sure to work with licensed and professional vendors that come recommended or you have talked to and trust. I understand that budget can be a concern at times, but never compromise when selecting your Photographer, Videographer, DJ and Planner/Coordinator.

I would not have been able to relax and enjoy the entire day with my daughter if I was worried about what was going on with the set-up, vendors, timeline, etc. I trusted our Coordinator; Stacy from Sylver Weddings and Events was on top of things and I completely trusted all the vendors to carry out the vision.

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Family Photo

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And two shall become one….

Best day ever!

Photo Credit: London Light Photography

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I want to publicly give a huge THANK YOU to all the amazing vendors that made this day memorable and perfect for my daughter…

Cover Photo Credit – London Light Photography

Vendor Love…

Coordination: Sylver Weddings & Events
Venue: Hawk Ranch
Vintage Rentals, Decor & Farm Tables: Touched By Time Vintage Rentals
Catering: Pete’s Firehouse BBQ
Videographer: George Vivanco Photography
Table Decor: Soiree Floral Design (Table centerpieces & Greenery)
Personal Florals: @The Flower Hood (bouquets & boutonnieres)
Macrame Backdrop: Macramama
Hair & Make up: Sandra Michelle Artistry
Chair rentals: All Occasion Party Rentals

DJ: Faultline Music Service
Bartending: Heather Guzel Bar
Photography: London Light Photography
Cake: Whole Foods Market
Dress: @Ashley Paige Designs/Bridal Shop: Klienfelds Bridal
Love is Patient Signs: Ashley Lenahan
Helpers: Rebecca Okray-Murphy, Alexandra Kreeger, Michael Kreeger

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If you have any questions feel free to email me directly at eventsbymaria@outlook.com.

I love hearing from you, so leave a comment and let me know your thoughts, questions or suggestions for future blogs.

To request a copy of your FREE wedding planning guide, fill out the contact form and I will get it to you right away.

Until next time, Happy Planning…

Maria is bi-lingual in Spanish & English and has been helping couples plan for their very special day for over 10 years. She is located in Temecula, CA and travels all over California and Mexico.

Why You Should Hire A Wedding Planner-Temecula Wedding Planner

Posted on September 17, 2018 by Maria Gardea in Why You Should Hire A Planner

Hello and welcome back! With wedding season in full swing, many couples are planning for their Big Day and with that comes the stress of planning a wedding and all the little details. Are you at the point where you are saying “forget it, lets just elope!”

This is a busy time and there is so much to do. Hiring a Planner or at least a Month of Coordinator to work with is one of the best “investments” you will make for your wedding.

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Many brides believe that if they hire a Planner that they will not have control of their vision or wedding. This is so far from the truth, in fact, a good Planner is going to work alongside with you so that the day is reflective of you as a couple and your vision.

Anyone who has ever planned a wedding on their own will tell you how stressful it is and often, they have no time to look for vendors, tour venues and look over contracts. Couples do not always read or understand the contract they are signing, which can lead to services they think are included, but are not.

I have never heard a bride say they wish they never hired a Planner or at the minimum, a Day of Coordinator (which by the way, there is no such thing as just a “Day Of”). I have had talked to many brides who say “I wish I had hired a Planner”.

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I have listed of a few reasons why you should hire a Planner:

A Planner works with vendors that are professional, licensed and insured. They can recommend vendors they personally know and have worked with that will fit the needs of the couple.
A Planner can help you find the perfect venue, which helps reduce your level of stress
A Planner will review your vendor contracts to make sure the services you paid for, you are actually getting and that you understand what is included and what is not. This helps with misunderstanding that happens more often than not.
They make sure your vision is carried out
They manage the vendors and all the details of the day.
They will work with you to create your customized timeline so that all the important events and announcements happen.
They will be there to run the rehearsal and make sure your bridal party knows where to be the day of the wedding.
A Planner will help manage your guest and take care of any problems that may arise so you don’t have to.

These are just a few reasons as to why you should hire a Planner….So, what are you waiting for?

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If you have any questions feel free to email me directly at eventsbymaria@outlook.com.

I love hearing from you so leave a comment to let me know your thoughts, questions or suggestions for future blogs.

To request a copy of your FREE wedding planning guide, fill out the contact form and I will get it out to you right away.

Until next time, Happy Planning…

7 Tips When Selecting Your Wedding Flowers – Temecula Wedding Planner

Posted on August 17, 2018August 7, 2018 by Maria Gardea in 7 Tips When Selecting Your Wedding Flowers

Hello and welcome back! I have been a planner for many years and have loved so many of the flowers that I have seen brides select, that for this blog post, I decided to talk all things flowers!

We are in the middle of wedding season and many brides are deciding on design and figuring out their flower selections. Florals add so much to the overall look of a wedding that it is something you definitely want to research and incorporate.

Selecting the right florals for your wedding is important, but it is so much more important to select the right florist, one that is licensed and insured and that really understands your vision and can offer suggestions.

I am by no means a floral expert, so I reached out to a florist friend of mine who is an expert when it comes to florals and design. Lisa Montecinos from Tre Fiori Floral Studio happily agreed to be “interviewed” with questions I feel will be most helpful to you. Enjoy…

Florals by Tre Fiori Floral Studio

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EBM: What flowers are in during the various seasons? Spring, Fall, Winter, Summer

Lisa: Flowers like roses and hydrangea are available year-round. Specialty flowers like ranunculus, sweet pea and lilac are available in Spring. Dahlias and Peonies make their way during the early months of summer and then usually stay around until late Fall, maybe having a small lapse of availability in August. You can sometimes get them for a few weeks in Spring as well. Seeded Eucalyptus is difficult to get March through June usually as it’s not grown to full capacity yet and often looks like little brown “cups/bells” when cut early, instead of the cute little green seeds that are usually attached to the oval leaves. It’s always best to check with your florist though on everything, because flowers come from all over (Holland, Chile, Mexico, etc ) and things like weather and storms can really effect growth and shipments.

Photo by Pura Soal Photography

Florals by Tre Fiori Floral Studio

EBM: What flowers are local to California?

Lisa: I’m not sure about what flowers are local to California as my wholesalers get flowers from all over the world. I do know that the flower fields in Carlsbad provide several ranunculus to the local wholesalers though. 🙂

Photo by Gabe and Brit Photography

Florals by Tre Fiori Floral Studio

Photo by Pura Soul Photography

Florals by Tre Fiori Floral Studio

EBM: What is your advice or suggestions to brides when deciding on florals for their wedding, especially if they are on a budget?

Lisa: When choosing florals for your wedding, I really advise the couple to consider their style and overall look of the wedding. Sometimes a bride will want baby’s breath and sunflowers but their wedding style is Garden Romantic. Beautiful garden roses, astilbe, lisianthus and ranunculus are better suited for such a style. Leave the baby’s breath and sunflowers for a country/rustic wedding. Or better yet, move away from country/rustic all together. It’s old news in my opinion! 🙂 Also, to note is that any good floral designer should be able to suggest florals that would work within a client’s style and floral budget, if that budget is within reason. An average floral budget can be anywhere from $1500-$3500. The bulk of a floral bill lies in the number of bridesmaids and the guest count (centerpieces.)

EBM: How soon should a bride go in for her floral consultation?

Lisa: A couple should really look to book their floral designer as one of the first vendors chosen after the venue and photographer are booked. Floral designing takes a lot of prep-work so florists book up fast as their week gets filled quickly with all that prep. I often book weddings 10-18 mos. in advance.

EBM: What should a bride look for when searching for a florist?

Lisa: When choosing a floral designer, a couple should focus on someone who meets their needs, someone who designs similar to their style and someone whom they feel comfortable with. I chat often with my clients throughout the process, and love to build a rapport and friendship with them. Florals are a big part of a wedding day and they should be entrusted to someone the couple really likes and feels is capable of bringing their vision to life.

EBM: What can a bride expect during the floral consultation?

Lisa: During a consult, the couple should expect to spend at least 1-2 hours going over their floral needs in detail. They should expect to be shown several different examples of flower varieties, whether in person or on a computer screen. They should have in mind what they envision for their ceremony and centerpieces, and then they should expect to do a little brainstorming with the floral designer as well, to tweak things to their style and budget.

EBM: Any other advice or suggestions you would give a bride?

Lisa: Have fun! Flowers are beautiful and can really enhance a wedding. They are in almost every photograph so it’s important to choose beautiful ones!

Photo by Jessica Harden Photography

Florals by Tre Fiori Floral Studio

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I hope you found this helpful and if you have not selected your florist yet, I HIGHLY recommend Lisa Montecinos from Tre Fiori Floral Studio!

You can follow Lisa on Instagram: @tre_fiori_floral_studio

Or contact her though her website at: http://trefiorifloralstudio.com

Thank you Lisa for helping me out…

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If you have any questions feel free to email me directly at eventsbymaria@outlook.com.

I love hearing from you, so leave a comment to let me know your thoughts, questions or suggestions for future blogs.

To request a copy of your FREE wedding planning guide, fill out the contact form and I will get it to you right away.

Until next time, Happy Planning…

Maria is bi-lingual and has been helping couples plan for their special day for over 10 years. She is located in Temecula, CA and travels all over California and Mexico.