Daniella's Favorites
Botanica
Since Daniella works at Botanica, she was thrilled to be able to hire an event business she knew inside and out and absolutely trusted. Located in Little Italy, this cutting-edge company prides itself on innovative modern design with clean lines and unique concepts. For the ballroom, she wanted a sophisticated Manhattan feel that exuded elegance. Daniella opted for a white floral theme, favoring orchids. Her centerpieces, designed by Botanica, featured iron trees with dangling crystals and chic lampshades. Wrought-iron chandeliers with candlelit vessels framed the dance floor.
“Attention to detail is what sets apart a fabulous wedding,” says owner Scott Northcote. “Remember: your wedding décor sets the tone for the event, so it’s important that it reflects who you are.” 2310 Kettner Boulevard, Little Italy, 619.294.3100, botanicasd.com.
Jennifer Dery, Jennifer Dery Photography
For the past 10 years, Jennifer Dery has been a passionate photographer specializing in weddings. “I love to create beautiful photos, tell a story and meet new people,” she says. “Weddings provide all three!” Having worked with many couples in a plethora of locations, she has seen it all and offers great insight and advice when it comes to shooting nuptials and the surrounding events.
First of all, she says, “Don’t forget your lighting! If you are going to all the trouble of picking a great venue, dress, flowers and photographer, don’t skimp on the lighting. Lighting is relatively inexpensive but creates a big impact. At the very least, put some pin spots on the tables, and throw a little (dimmed) light on your dance floor. The more you can do, the better your photos will be. Photography, after all, is about capturing light!”
She also suggests scheduling an engagement session with your photographer. “Most couples have never had professional photos taken of themselves and rarely have they seen what they look like in photos from every angle,” she says. “It really helps the wedding day go smoother as the couple and photographer are already comfortable with each other and the process. Another bonus is that you will end up with a great collection of images that you can use on the wedding day or to decorate your home.”
Finally, Jennifer believes the bride and groom should make getting ready for their wedding a fun event. “It’s a great way to spend quality time with your closest friends. The people who seem to have the best time have their closest friends on hand with good music, food, drinks and a big enough space for everyone to relax. Daniella and Alex both did this with their friends and it made for some great photos!” 5509 El Cajon Boulevard, Second Floor, San Diego, 619.286.6300, jenniferdery.com.
Miryam Seid, Event Planner
Versatile designer and veteran producer Miryam Seid boasts an international client base, having coordinated events in Tokyo and Monaco. After spending 10 years in New York City planning intimate parties, corporate fêtes and extremely high-end weddings for some of Manhattan’s wealthiest, Miryam moved across the country and hung her shingle in San Diego. She served as coordinator during the wedding month, and appreciated Daniella’s out-of-the-box creative thinking. The two loved working together.
“Embrace and enjoy every moment of your special day,” Miryam advises. “Find a wedding coordinator you trust who insists that you be a guest at your own wedding. Let your special day be a reflection of your personalities and the love you have for one another. Your guests should leave inspired. You can make a huge impact with personal touches and you don’t need to break the bank!
“Never stop dancing—you are the life of this party,” she adds, a final bit of advice that Alex and Daniella took to heart. Mrs4events@gmail.com, 646.239.1980.
