Published by FREE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® Wedding GUIDE 2025-2026
Love on the Links LET US BRING YOUR DREAM WEDDING TO LIFE 1 McCLURE WAY, SEASIDE • 831-899-5954 BayonetBlackHorse.com Serene and picturesque venue with breathtaking views of the Monterey Bay and lush rolling greens. Breathtaking outdoor ceremony locations: perfect for a coastal or golf course-inspired wedding. Elegant reception venues: our ballroom features vaulted ceilings, exposed wood beams, and ample space for dining and dancing. Tailored wedding packages: choose from customizable packages that cater to your personal style and budget, ensuring every detail is just as you imagined. Expert planning assistance: our experienced team works closely with you every step of the way to help bring your wedding vision to life.
REFRESHINGLY CLASSIC 400 Cannery Row, Monterey montereyplazahotel.com Something Blue Begin your journey together at the centerpiece of Monterey Bay. Elegant architecture, exceptional cuisine and unparalleled views set the stage for a day you and your guests will remember forever. To plan an appointment: weddings@montereyplazahotel.com
For Beautiful Weddings All Year Round In The Monterey Conference Center is the perfect location for that classic yet modern couple. The venue is located just steps away from the waterfront and charming historic Downtown Monterey. Book your wedding day at montereyconferencecenter.com or call (831) 646-3770. One Portola Plaza, Downtown Monterey Monterey
(831) 337-8800 | montere tourin vehicles.com 2228 Del Monte Ave. | Montere , C 93940 YOUR ADVENTURE AWAITS MAKE YOUR SPECIAL DAY MAGICAL GETAWAY CARS, ELOPEMENTS, ENGAGEMENT SHOOTS, CHAUFFEUR SERVICES
Select your favorite Olive Oil and Balsamic and create a one of a kind wedding favor. Perfect for your most favorite day. Come in and let us help you make your day the best day ever. Taste over 70 varieties of olive oils and balsamics When olive you loves olive her.... Only the best will do. 751 CANNERY ROW • MONTEREY • 831-242-8900 • montereystastyolivebar.com
Your care, your baby, our focus Having a child is one of life’s most significant events. We offer nationally recognized patient-centered care from pre-natal screenings through delivery and beyond. Our Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in partnership with Stanford Medicine Children’s Health is equipped to treat amongst the most medically fragile of babies. Like generations of families, you can rely on us for comprehensive and compassionate maternity care for both mother and newborn. Learn more at SalinasValleyHealth.com/maternity Call 831-757-DOCS today to schedule an appointment. Blair Tull, MD MATERNITY & FAMILY-CENTERED CARE Salinas Valley Health Medical Center 450 East Romie Lane, Salinas 831-757-4333 Obstetrics & Gynecology Clinic 250 San Jose Street, Salinas 831-758-8223 PrimeCare Clinic 355 Abbott Street, Suite 100, Salinas 831-751-7070
MONTEREY’S LUXURY OCEAN FRONT HOTEL 750 Cannery Row Monterey, CA 93940 www.ictheclementmonterey.com (located next door to the Monterey Bay Aquarium) • Wedding ceremonies are staged on an expansive landscaped courtyard facing the sapphire-blue waters of the bay with magnificent panoramic coastal views accommodating up to 250 guests. • Two fire pits provide an ambient glow, particularly romantic at sunset. • Couples say their vows with the bay in the background, while sea birds trace graceful curves on the horizon and otters and sea lions perch atop the rocky shore. • Two ocean front ballrooms providing seating for 50 to 225 guests. • 208 guestrooms & suites, The Spa, Fitness Room, Pool & Whirlpool along with ocean front dining and award winning cuisine in the C restaurant + bar. InterContinental The Clement Monterey was designed as a serene coastal retreat for personal rejuvenation and spectacular private celebrations. Call our Wedding Coordinator for a personal tour at 831.375.4500 Wedding ceremonies are staged on an expansive landscaped courtyard facing the sapphireblue waters of the bay with magnificent panoramic coastal views accommodating up to 250 guests. InterContinental The Clement Monterey was designed as a serene coastal retreat for personal rejuvenation and spectacular private celebrations. Call our Catering Coordinator for additional information (831) 642-2001 an expansive landscaped courtyard facing the sapphire-blue waters of the bay with magnificent panoramic coastal views accommodating up to 220 guests. • Two fire pits provide an ambient glow, particularly romantic at sunset. • Couples say their vows with the bay in the background, while sea birds trace graceful curves on the horizon and otters and sea lions can be seen in the water. • Two ocean view ballrooms providing seating for 50 to 220 guests. Fitness Room, Pool & Whirlpool along with ocean front dining and award winning cuisine in the C restaurant +bar.
INTRO Is your big day coming up soon? Well, hopefully it isn’t too soon. You’ve got some planning to do to make sure not only the day goes smoothly, but also those before and after it. By this point, you probably have a broad idea of where your wedding will be, and how you want it to look. As you dive into the details, you’ll soon discover the numerous big and little things that add up to the “I do” moment. If you’re reading this, you’ve already decided that Monterey County is where you want to get married. It’s a destination that is known around the world for its beautiful landscapes and diverse offerings, with plenty of venues—intimate or extravagant—here to fit the bill for any wedding (budgetconscious or not). Will your ceremony be on-trend or go against the grain? Who, exactly, will you entrust to be by your side throughout the entire process? How will both families get to know each other? This guide covers some planning suggestions and the many local services that are on hand in Monterey County. You got this—remember, you’ve already found the love of your life. That’s the hardest part. -Erik Chalhoub CONTENTS 12 Getting Trendy 18 Choose Your Destination 24 Rehearsal Dinner 28 All the Bride’s (and Groom’s) People 34 Plan Ahead Founder & CEO Bradley Zeve Publisher Erik Cushman Project Editor Erik Chalhoub Editor Sara Rubin Features Editor Dave Faries Art Director/Production Manager Karen Loutzenheiser Contributing Writers and Copy Editors Marielle Argueza, Celia Jiménez, Pam Marino, Agata Pope˛da, Katie Rodriguez, David Schmalz Photographers Evynn LeValley, Ryan Chard Smith, Michael Dadula Graphic Designers Alexis Estrada, Lani Headley, Kevin Jewell Advertising Keith Bruecker, Diane Glim, George Kassal Business Development Director Keely Richter Cover Photo Evynn LeValley The Best of Monterey Bay® is published by Milestone Communications, Inc., a California corporation. The entire contents are copyright 2025. No portion may be reproduced. 831394-5656. www.montereycountynow.com. RYAN CHARD SMITH 10 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 Fleurs du Soleil Garden & Lifestyle Boutique 598 Fremont Street, Monterey 831.656.0455 • fleursdusoleil.com info@fleursdusoleil.com ’21 ’22 ’23 ’24 Monterey County’s BEST FLORIST EXTRAORDINARY FLORAL DESIGN for Weddings, Events & Special Occasions FleureduSoleil_1-2h_WG25_GK.indd 1 2/27/25 12:15 PM
Monterey’s Best Kept Secret From the historic Hotel Del Monte’s Crocker’s Cove beach front property to the grand Barbara McNitt Ballroom, we have the most spacious and elegant venues on the Monterey Peninsula. Catering at Naval Support Activity Monterey is customized to fit your special day! For more information, please contact MWR Catering at MWRCatering@nps.edu or visit TheHotelDelMonte.com/Catering-Events
12 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 TRENDS From the moment one says “Yes” to an engagement, it’s off to the races for a couple to answer the seemingly simple question: How do we want to celebrate? In many ways, gone are the days of the traditional wedding, with the industry evolving into an era where the planning options are endless— moving beyond conventional paths and into creative, personalized arenas. Many couples nowadays are forgoing a large celebration altogether, opting to elope privately or consider only having a wedding party to mark their union. Weddings today are more expensive than ever, especially in California where they can easily reach into the tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars depending on location, floral arrangements, dining and duration. In 2023, Monterey County hosted 2,674 weddings, ranking the county 161st out of 3,109 nationwide, averaging at over $40,000 per wedding, according to the Wedding Report, a research company that tracks wedding industry statistics. While we know weddings are influenced by so many factors—cost being the main driver for many, and perhaps a loosening of societal pressures about how weddings should look—what trends are emerging as we head into 2025? Micro and Courthouse Weddings The “small” wedding is here, and with sustained popularity. Every plate, seat and drink adds up, and the more New Traditions From micro to the casual, weddings are trending toward the intimate. By Katie Rodriguez EVYNN LEVALLEY PHOTOGRAPHY RYAN CHARD SMITH
Photo by Heidi Borgia Truly Unforgettable The Hyatt Carmel Highlands is perched on a cliff overlooking the breathtaking Big Sur coastline. This historic property has been making couples’ dreams come true for the last 100 years — and is still an epic wedding destination today. But don’t stop at the wedding: Host your rehearsal dinner in our award-winning restaurant, Pacific’s Edge. Hyatt Carmel Highlands makes any landmark occasion special. Experience our approachable sophistication where guests feel quickly at home, and delight in the recent multimilliondollar renovation of our 48 upscale rooms & suites. 120 HIGHLANDS DR CARMEL HIGHLANDS (831) 622 5461
guests you have, the more a couple’s attention is divided, making it harder to connect with everyone in a genuine way. Micro weddings are often seen as offering a more intimate experience with guests, and of course, they can seriously help cut costs. As can a courthouse wedding—the classic, intimate way to share vows. Still, regardless of the cost, both micro and courthouse weddings are increasingly popular. They have gained serious traction, especially after 2020. Lady Gaga even plugged plans to get married in the courthouse, followed by takeout Chinese food, on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in October 2024. Local wedding planners in Monterey have seen the same, for even simpler reasons. “We’ve seen that people are opting more towards a smaller type of wedding just because it’s less stressful,” says Brian Borgia, owner of Weddings in Monterey. TRENDS RYAN CHARD SMITH EVYNN LEVALLEY PHOTOGRAPHY 14 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 Imagine your coastal wedding in Monterey at the enchanting Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa. Delight guests with delicious farm-to-table cuisine and exceptional service. Our private dining room is ideal for rehearsal dinners and brunches for up to 15 guests. For larger celebrations, the iconic Andalucia Ballroom accommodates up to 140. On-site parking is available. Plan your dream wedding today! Call (831) 373-1602. 700 Munras Ave., Monterey | hotelcasamunras.com Traditional Hospitality in the heart of Monterey—Since 1824
MONTEREY’S ONLY BEACHFRONT HOTEL An Invitation To MONTEREYBEACH.COM | 2600 SAND DUNES DR. MONTEREY, CA 93940 | 831.394.3321 Experience the wedding of your dreams in our enchanting settings, whether you're exchanging vows with the sand beneath your feet on the pristine shores of Monterey Beach or celebrating in an elegant venue that feels tailor-made for you.
Weekday Weddings Weekdays are a tough choice for obvious reasons. A majority of people are working, and so opting for a weekday wedding means asking your guests to take time off. On the flip side, getting married on a weekday opens up the availability of venues, often at discounted prices and food options. This can mean better access to bakeries and restaurants, which many couples look to for their reception. For those who decide they want to have their wedding in a more public place without the crowd, getting married on a weekday can also offer a more quiet, private wedding option. “I think last year, we had 32 weddings that took place on a Monday,” Borgia says, “which is a pretty high percentage for us.” For those having smaller weddings, he adds that often a Thursday isn’t as much to ask of a more intimate wedding, with the invitees being close friends and family. Bridal Party Themes— Or Lack Thereof Bridal party themes are diverging into two distinct paths. One trend shows couples opting for smaller bridal parties, often choosing only immediate family members to stand with them at the altar, rather than large groups of friends. “It seems like the days of having six, eight or 10 people on each side are starting to fade,” Borgia says. The other trend highlights couples who still might prefer the traditionally sized bridal parties, but with a variety of different color palette themes on the rise. Many are leaning toward themes of understated sophistication and timeless pieces, where wedding attire for the bride and bridal party features clean lines, delicate lace and fewer embellishments. As we head into 2025, this trend embraces more minimalist designs with a strong emphasis on more neutral palettes. “One major trend in weddings across the U.S. is the modern black, white and green aesthetic,” says Kate Ford, a Monterey wedding planner whose expertise is more luxury events. “You’re seeing many wedding parties dressed in all black, which combines a modern look with a classic vibe.” Ford notes that the name “Hailey Bieber” frequently comes up when her clients discuss their wedding aesthetic. Many are inspired by her effortless, natural style, wanting to replicate an approach TRENDS EVYNN LEVALLEY PHOTOGRAPHY 16 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 471 WAVE STREET MONTEREY (831) 655-0264 P M canneryrowantiquemall.com Visit us for “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed and Something Blue” “ANTIQUE MALL OF THE YEAR” Professional Antique Mall Magazine ’24Voted Monterey County’s Best Antique Shop OVER 140 DEALERS 21,000 SQUARE FEET The Largest Antiques and Collectibles Mall on the Central Coast CR-antique_1-3v_WG25_GK.indd 1 2/19/25 4:25 PM
with a “less is more” philosophy. This often translates to wedding party garments that prioritize simplicity, often featuring fabrics like satin and silk, creating a more refined look. Candid Moments and Creative Meals The “authentic wedding” is a term that’s on the rise. Of course, its meaning is subjective, but it reflects a desire to make the wedding experience fun, comfortable, and infused with creative flair that embodies the personalities and quirks of the couple. For example, food stations where guests can pick up small plates representing various cuisines or cultures have become popular. Imagine one station featuring a Caribbean jerk spread, where guests can pick from various grilled meats, tropical sides, and an array of jerk sauces. Or perhaps an Asian fusion station, with small plates or service bars offering sushi samples or bao buns or dumplings. Couples are opting for the creative freedom to not only choose multiple cuisines, but create a more relaxed vibe compared to more formal plated dinners. This setup can encourage guests to interact more with each other and enjoy the setting and activities with greater freedom. Additionally, many couples are also prioritizing candid, more photojournalistic styles of photography, spending less time posing for portraits and more time engaging with their guests. Candid photos are gaining popularity for several reasons: many express the desire to look back at their wedding photos to relive the essence and genuine emotions from the day, and many simply want more less staged, more fun photos. “They’re not necessarily abandoning traditional wedding photos altogether, just minimizing them,” Ford says. “They want those family portraits, but there’s more of a balance— capturing those moments without spending the majority of their day in a photo shoot.” TRENDS MICHAEL DADULA WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 17 The Center for Spiritual Awakening 522 Central Ave. Pacific Grove, CA (831) 275-4918 weddingsintheround.com Love makes the world go round and the ride worthwhile. Surround yourself in love & light. UNIQUE CEREMONIAL SPACE GARDEN & INDOOR RECEPTIONS STEPS FROM THE BAY
18 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 DESTINATION Like every cliché, some version of “It’s about the journey, not the destination” is often said with a sort of knowing wisdom, as if the speaker spent hours meditating in a cave or something to arrive at that pearl, when in fact it’s been uttered countless times before. Add to that, it’s often not true: If one has to drive two hours to an airport, arriving two hours before an eight-hour flight, perhaps with a layover, then if one takes more from the journey, well, it’s probably best to rethink the destination. Because if one does the proper research, it should be about the destination—the world is filled with extraordinary places, which is why destination weddings are so popular. Most people don’t live in such places, and even if they do (like Monterey County residents), their familiarity might make it less exciting, and someplace further afield might feel more enticing for the soon-to-be newlyweds. All that said, whether one lives in Monterey County or not, it is a destination, and for local wedding planners, organizing the perfect wedding for couples from afar, often out of state, is their bread and butter. For Kate Ford, the owner, planner and designer at Kate Ford Events, which specializes in weddings on the Monterey Peninsula and in Carmel Valley and Big Sur, about 90 percent of her clients are not local. “Sometimes they have ties to here, like a family Far and Wed Monterey County is a hotspot for destination weddings, and local planners help keep it that way. By David Schmalz MICHAEL DADULA EVYNN LEVALLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 19 Welcome to Nest... 831.333.9184 • www.nestinpg.com 229-B Grand Avenue, Pacific Grove blue jeans to bridal Romantically chic selections for Brides, Mothers, Bridesmaids, Flower Girls & Guests We carry Jasmine Bridal, Frank Lyman, Alyce Paris & more Gorgeous selections for Military Balls, Proms, & Special Occasions. Beautiful jewelry, shoes and accessories Making Brides & Their Mothers Happy for 26 Years! 447 Alvarado Street • Monterey (831) 375-5332 • gaspersjewelers.com LAYERS CAKES 9 Soledad Drive, Monterey 831-655-1544 | www.layerscake.com SENSATIONAL Layers_1-2h_WG24_GK.indd 1 2/21/24 12:58 PM
home, or they grew up coming here,” she adds. But either way, “It is a very popular spot for a destination wedding.” It’s not hard to see why: A stunning coastline, charming little cities and fine wining and dining. But it’s not just that. “A huge thing I hear frequently is proximity to a major airport,” Ford says—San Jose, San Francisco and Oakland all fit the bill. And after Monterey Regional Airport added direct flights to Dallas, she says, there was a huge influx of couples from that area. “Things like that make a big impact.” And for those who want to have a wedding weekend, she says, Carmel and Monterey are lovely places to visit, especially for those who’ve never been to either. Ford plans mostly high-end weddings, and when she initially meets with prospective clients, she needs to establish a few key things off the bat: What’s the budget? And what’s the wish list? If she doesn’t think she can make these two answers jibe, she does one of two things—either refer the couple to another planner she thinks might be a better fit, or advise the couple that they may want to pare down their wish lists. When asked what some of the biggest surprises couples have when planning their destination wedding, Ford says, “I think most people are really shocked at the price of weddings, unless you’ve had a sibling or friend married in recent years.” A wedding in Carmel or Carmel Valley, she says, comes out to about $500- $800 per person, and most of the weddings Ford does, many at Bernardus, come in at $100,000 and up. “In my opinion, it’s unprofessional to plan a wedding with someone without being upfront about cost,” she says, adding that there is typically “zero transparency” in her industry. “My job is to DESTINATION EVYNN LEVALLEY PHOTOGRAPHY EVYNN LEVALLEY PHOTOGRAPHY 20 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 LionverPsaPcioifinc tGrove Consistently Voted Best Place to Get Married in Monterey County The romantic City of Pacific Grove offers breathtaking coastal locations for wedding ceremonies at Lovers Point Park, Berwick Park and at the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse. Contact the Pacific Grove Recreation Dept. for reservations and permits. City of Pacific Grove Recreation (831) 648 - 3134 • 302 16th St., Pacific Grove www.cityofpacificgrove.org PGRec_1-3h_WG23_dg.indd 1 2/14/23 3:26 PM
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 21 www.wavestreetstudios.com Monterey’s Premier Weddings and Events Venue Elope beneath the redwoods in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park 47225 Highway One, Big Sur 855.239.6950 bigsurlodge.com Photo: Lynn Lewis Scan for special discounts! BS-Lodge_WG24_kpr.indd 1 2/23/24 10:47 AM DELICIOUS WOOD FIRED PIZZAS, BURGERS, PASTA, SANDWICHES, AND SALADS WHO KNEW? SCAN QR CODE for menu 484 Washington St., Downtown Monterey 11:30am Mon—Fri 10am Sat & Sun melvilletav.com (831) 643-9525 REHEARSAL DINNERS, BACHELORETTE & BACHELOR PARTIES, BRIDAL SHOWER AND BABY SHOWERS WE DO WEDDING PARTIES LUNCH AND DINNER EVERYDAY WEEKEND BRUNCH WITH BOTTOMLESS MIMOSAS Melville_1-2h_WG24_GK.indd 1 2/21/24 3:00 PM
set expectations and give [prospective clients] information.” Some information brides-andgrooms-to-be might want to make note of early is the area is an ever-popular spot for tourists and events, so it’s best for couples to hire a planner well in advance—most couples do a year. “On top of weddings, it’s just a busy destination,” Ford says. “There’s a lot happening here in a small area.” When Ford signs a contract with a couple, she says, “A lot of my clients, I tell them one of the first things I’m going to book is hair and makeup. It’s hard to find even nine months out.” But if a couple is from afar, how do they pick their venue, or the menu? “When you’re hiring a planner, you’re hiring me for my expertise and my vendor partners,” Ford says. “I give them recommendations based on their style and budget, in a way to be a matchmaker for them, guiding them on who would be a good catering team.” But that comes after the couple flies or drives out early in the process to choose the venue—that’s step one. Step two, after numerous Zoom meetings, and about four to seven months in advance of the wedding date, the couple comes out again for a tasting, and to see Ford’s vision for the design. “Planning a wedding is a very complicated and emotional process for a lot of people,” Ford says. That’s understandable—a wedding is a milestone of a lifetime—but in the right hands, doing the heavy lifting of turning a couple’s dreams into reality, it’s a process that should end with magic. And that, after all, is the ultimate destination. MICHAEL DADULA 22 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 Gentlemen Prefer Cigars CIGARS CIGARETTES CUTTERS PIPES PIPE TOBACCO PUNCHES TORCHES OPEN 10AM–10PM 7 DAYS A WEEK 765 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey 831-645-9021 M IB Light Up Your Wedding PREMIUM CIGARS
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 23 Weddings & Events AT THE MUSEUM PGMUSEUM.ORG A natural choice for your special day. A unique, affordable and flexible venue with indoor/ outdoor options. Plan for a small, intimate wedding in our scenic garden, or utilize the entire facility to accommodate up to 150 guests. Call us today to schedule a site visit. For more information, contact the Marketing & Events Coordinator at (831) 648-5716 x16. PGMuseum_1-6v_WG24_DG.indd 1 2/21/24 1:46 PM Book your REHEARSAL DINNER WEDDING RECEPTION COCKTAIL PARTY AFTER WEDDING BRUNCH events@stokesadobe.com 831.264.8775 stokesadobe.com 500 Hartnell Street Monterey Happy Hour + Pizza Service 4-5:30 Daily Dinner 5-8:30 (Sun-Thurs) 5-9 (Fri-Sat)
24 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 DINNER Planning a wedding is a process. Schedule a venue, hire a photographer, agree on an invitation list, book a block of hotel rooms—even with the help of a wedding planner the tasks tend to be mundane. But there is one episode leading up to the wedding that is meant to be enjoyable: the rehearsal dinner. The gathering stands apart for many reasons, not the least of which is its adaptability. It can be as formal as lobster and Champagne or as casual as pizza and beer. The group can sit down for dinner, but lunch or brunch are also options. In fact, couples need not even host a setting at all. According to wedding planner Kathee McFarland of Carmel Weddings, many choose simply to take their friends and family out to dinner. “It’s great for families to get together and meet each other,” she says. “But nowadays people tend to get together more during the courtship.” Rehearsal dinners originally served as a way to introduce the two families and treat the wedding party to a meal after walking through the next day’s ceremony. At least, that’s how the tradition developed. No one knows when the first rehearsal dinner took place or who threw the party. Indeed there is no agreement on why the meal became part of the wedding ritual. Some believe gatherings date back to Medieval times, others indicate that rehearsal dinners are an American creation, dating only as far back as the late 1800s. There is some speculation that such dinners started to become common as towns expanded, friends and families moved to distant places and the tidy ceremonies officiated by the reverend of a small church grew in extravagance. That a wedding in Pennsylvania might include a groomsman from Missouri or a bridesmaid arriving from Oregon was not the norm a century ago. Over time, expectations were added. Rehearsal dinners became the occasion for the guests to offer toasts, the best man and maid of honor to give speeches and for the bride and groom to thank the wedding party. Yet it never took on a solemn aspect. The rehearsal dinner, like the reception, was a relaxed, fun gathering framing the wedding itself. Fun Dining The rehearsal dinner offers an opportunity to relax and enjoy a moment with friends and family. By Dave Faries COURTESY OF STOKES ADOBE COURTESY OF STOKES ADOBE COURTESY OF STOKES ADOBE
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Again, while rehearsal dinners are not a requirement, many wedding planners suggest going through with the tradition. Interestingly, however, McFarland—who has been organizing ceremonies since 1986—recommends that couples take responsibility for arranging the venue, rather than a planner. Setting up a rehearsal dinner involves several steps. The couple must settle on a venue and select a menu that accounts for each guest’s dietary restrictions. If a wedding planner must go back and forth between the couple and a restaurant manager, it merely burdens the timeline and adds to the cost. “It takes the wedding planner out of the middle,” McFarland says. Yet she points out that the wedding planner can still be useful in providing direction. They know which venues have private rooms and how many guests can be accommodated, for example. They can tell the couple if a place is suitable for live music or fits the cozy mood they are looking for. McFarland starts by asking for meal preferences—seafood, Italian, burgers and fries, Korean, food truck, buffet, local and seasonal, prix fixe. The options are seemingly endless. She then inquires about the mood. Some couples want white tablecloth dining, others might be looking to dance. Simply put, there is no right or wrong way to throw a rehearsal dinner. There is only the matter of locating the right space. While hard and fast rules do not apply here, there are some guidelines for hosting an enjoyable rehearsal dinner. The experts suggest that the event should not be too elaborate. The wedding ceremony itself is the centerpiece of the weekend. The dinner is an DINNER 26 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 Rental includes kitchen, ballroom, and studio, as well as full support from our friendly, helpful staff who are dedicated to making your special day a success! Learn more: bit.ly/SeasideRentals Dining Capacity: Soper Community Center - 85 Laguna Grande Hall - 225 Spectacularly Affordable Venues ✦ ✦ ✦ Soper Community Center & Laguna Grande Hall ✦ Receptions ✦ ✦ Quinceñeras ✦ ✦ Babyshowers ✦ ✦ Special Events ✦ 986 Hilby Ave, Seaside 831-899-6800 www.ci.seaside.ca.us city-seaside_1-3s_WG22_kb.indd 1 2/7/22 1:50 PM LIGHTING TO CREATE THE PERFECT AMBIENCE LED VIDEO WALL COLOR WASH UPLIGHTING CUSTOM MONOGRAM GOBO SPOTLIGHT STRING LIGHTING 495 ELDER AVE A, SAND CITY, CA 93955 FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (831) 583-0880 DJ & ENTERTAINMENT PACKAGES PREMIUM AUDIO VISUAL FOR ALL VENUE SIZES MOBILE DJ FOR ALL EVENTS AND OCCASIONS WEDDINGS DINNER PARTIES CORPORATE EVENTS AND MUCH MORE... OUR DJ’S & AUDIO SPECIALISTS PROVIDE THE HIGHEST QUALITY SOUND CREATING AN EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR EVENT LIGHTING TO CREATE THE PERFECT AMBIENCE LED VIDEO WALL COLOR WASH UPLIGHTING CUSTOM MONOGRAM GOBO SPOTLIGHT STRING LIGHTING 495 ELDER AVE A, SAND CITY, CA 93955 FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (831) 583-0880 DJ & ENTERTAINMENT PACKAGES PREMIUM AUDIO VISUAL FOR ALL VENUE SIZES MOBILE DJ FOR ALL EVENTS AND OCCASIONS WEDDINGS DINNER PARTIES CORPORATE EVENTS AND MUCH MORE... OUR DJ’S & AUDIO SPECIALISTS PROVIDE THE HIGHEST QUALITY SOUND CREATING AN EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR EVENT ZES NS SOUND YOUR EVENT AINMENT PACKAGES ENTS AND OCCASIONS LIGHTING TO CREATE THE PERFECT AMBIENCE LED VIDEO WALL COLOR WASH UPLIGHTING CUSTOM MONOGRAM GOBO SPOTLIGHT STRING LIGHTING 495 ELDER AVE A, SAND CITY, CA 93955 FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (831) 583-0880 DJ & ENTERTAINMENT PACKAGES PREMIUM AUDIO VISUAL FOR ALL VENUE SIZES MOBILE DJ FOR ALL EVENTS AND OCCASIONS WEDDINGS DINNER PARTIES CORPORATE EVENTS AND MUCH MORE... OUR DJ’S & AUDIO SPECIALISTS PROVIDE THE HIGHEST QUALITY SOUND CREATING AN EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR EVENT Glastonbury_1-3s_WG25_KB.indd 1 2/27/25 11:50 AM
opportunity for guests to meet and chat—a friendly affair. With that in mind, playful introductions or even interactive games are in order. At the very least, a cocktail hour before dinner can help bring people together. It is appropriate on the occasion for the bride and groom to give tokens of appreciation to those in the wedding party. If toasts are part of the affair, the speeches should be brief. Lean more toward fun than sentiment. Let guests know ahead of time what to expect, both in terms of menu options and vibe. It would be awkward for someone to show up in formal attire when nachos or line dancing are themes of the evening. The rehearsal dinner is also an opportunity to make final reminders or announcements about wedding day logistics, preferably as the evening comes to a close. And planners recommend that couples close proceedings early—especially if the dinner takes place the night before the wedding. Too many ceremonies have been marred by a bride, groom or member of the wedding party still reeling from the effects of alcohol. Another tip from experts: Know who is paying. (The rehearsal dinner was once referred to as the groom’s dinner. By tradition, the groom’s family handles the bill.) And that is another reminder from the experts: keep within a budget. Again, this can be a casual, relatively inexpensive event. Most of all, keep the stress level down. The rehearsal dinner is fundamentally a gathering of friends and family. Should something fall through—maybe a favorite restaurant is already booked—be prepared to move on. After all, McFarland observes, “There are so many good places.” DINNER WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 27 WE HAVE A STEAK IN YOUR FUTURE STEAKS, PRIME RIB AND SEAFOOD Dinner Reservations 831-373-3778 763 Wave St., Monterey • www.thewhalingstation.com The Whaling Station Steakhouse offers private and semi private dining areas for groups of 8 to 50. Call us today to reserve, answer questions or to hear about easy menu packages ’24 Voted Best Steakhouse and Martini Sip & Celebrate! PARTIES & EVENTS Let us host your event • BACHELOR • BACHELORETTE • BRIDAL SHOWER • FAMILY REUNION • CORPORATE EVENT • AND MORE! Memorable Moments Let us handle all the details while you unwind and savor every sip of our award winning wines. We’ve got you covered. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your special event... Cheers to making memories and savoring the moments! 831-622-9704 | MISSION 3SE OF 5TH | CARMEL BY THE SEA, CA 93921 WWW.DETIERRA.COM
28 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 BRIDESMAIDS + GROOMSMEN Scour the internet and you’ll find plenty of horror stories from those who have had the honor of being a bridesmaid or groomsman. Some are so absurd that there is no way they could be made up. There is the story of the bachelor party from the day before the wedding, where the groom drank more than a little too much and passed out on the couch, having what could be considered more than just a little accident in his pants. The groomsmen, i.e. the absolute heroes of this story, cleaned him up. There is the bride who invited her bridesmaids over for a party at a medical spa, only so she could request them to get Botox to “make sure we looked our best for her wedding,” one of the bridesmaids recalled. Yes, being a groomsman (or -maid, or -person) or bridesmaid (or -man, or -person) can be a stressful time. But for the marrying couple, having their best friends by their side can also make it one of the best times of their lives—if they know how to set reasonable expectations. If you’re invited to be a bridesmaid or groomsman, accept. It is an incredible honor to be chosen to play such a major role in one of the most important decisions of someone’s life. With great power comes great responsibility, as the saying goes. If you are the couple, how should you yield that power? If you are choSuper Standbys The bridesmaids and groomsmen are here to make the special day run as smoothly as possible. By Erik Chalhoub RYAN CHARD SMITH RYAN CHARD SMITH
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sen to be by their side, what is that responsibility? For the Couple: Pick the Right People for the Job Choosing who will stand by your side throughout the process is almost as important as the decision to marry in the first place. Generally, you want to have the same number of people on both sides—if there are five bridesmaids, then the groomsmen should be equal in number. It depends on the size of the wedding. But who will these people be? Remember, they play a critical role in making sure the only hitching happening at your wedding is when the rings are slipped onto the rightful fingers. Or at least, they will solve any problems as efficiently and drama-free as possible. Who can you rely on? If your best friend has a pattern of showing up late to gatherings, perhaps they are not fit for the job, despite how much you may love (or lovingly hate) them. Siblings are an obvious choice for not only groomsmen and bridesmaids, but also best man and maid of honor. However, the same rules of reliability still apply. It comes down to who you trust, and who has worked to gain that trust. How to Ask You should now have an idea of who you want as your bridesmaids and groomsmen, but whether they will actually be able, or willing, to take on the role is another story. The rule of thumb: just ask. If you are at this point in your life, chances are you’ve already experienced rejection, some perhaps more than others. You should also ask in person. Never do it over text or email, but a phone call is acceptable only in extenuating circumstances (i.e. the person lives far away). A gift that goes along with your ask also doesn’t hurt, especially if it’s usable for the big day itself, such as cuff links or other adornments. Set Reasonable (and Clear) Expectations Before you set your expectations, you need to define roles, namely the maid of honor and best man. The best man is in charge of the groomsmen; while the maid of honor leads the bridesmaids. The roles last before, during and after the wedding. Where, when and for how long will the bachelor (or bachelorette) party be? Know what you want and be specific in your instructions—a typed document outlining the plan does wonders here. Is there someone in charge of securing the clothing rentals, or orgaBRIDESMAIDS + GROOMSMEN RYAN CHARD SMITH 30 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 NATURE BOAT TOURS Safari ELKHORN SLOUGH
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nizing the gifts? What about ushers? Relay this to your maid of honor and best man, who should be responsible for divvying up these tasks. Your helpers should not go rogue and plan a surprise on their own (no kidnapping the groom the day before his wedding, as one Reddit user recounted). Likewise, as the marrying couple, don’t spring any new responsibilities in the final hours (or minutes) on your people—while some things can’t be helped (like a medical emergency that requires an ambulance), your desire to have different-colored tablecloths at the last minute can be. For the Bridesmaids and Groomsmen: Plan the Pre-Party If all goes well, you should know what the bride or groom wants to do before the big day. Stick to the plan. If you’re renting out a venue, make sure you inquire about its availability months in advance. If the party is at your house, make sure it’s stocked up with plenty of snacks. Help with Invitations It may be old-school, but most wedding invitations are still done via regular mail. Be prepared to stuff those envelopes. It’s a tedious but critical job. Just Be There The most important task is to be there for your best friend, physically and emotionally. Show up on time (or better yet, early) to all events. Nerves will be at an all-time high, so lend an ear when they just need to vent. Be the Point Person Wedding guests will have questions. Whether they’re looking for the bathroom, or they need a band-aid, you should be the on-site expert. Stay positive, because negativity is contagious. After the Wedding Make sure you return the suit and dress rentals on time—some rental businesses have strict return policies. If the couple goes away on a honeymoon, frequently check on their house (piled-up mailboxes are an open invitation for thieves). Assist with the thank-you notes post-wedding. Above all, you must remember: A wedding is a party. It should be a joyous occasion. Enjoy the fruits of your labor. Eat cake, toast with Champagne or something sparkly, hit the dance floor and grab the last shuttle home. And maybe treat yourself to a vacation a few weeks later. BRIDESMAIDS + GROOMSMEN MICHAEL DADULA 32 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 Downtown Santa Cruz 1301 Pacific Ave (831)460-9696 Capitola Mall 1855 41st Ave (831)477-1932 Capitola Village 214 Capitola Ave (831)462-9696 Old Sacramento 1100 2nd St (916)443-2801
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34 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 ADVICE Magazines and blogs illustrate weddings so beautifully. Everything from flower arrangements to bridesmaids’ dresses, party favors to the cupcake tower, all appear effortlessly in place and color-coordinated. But in reality, it’s anything but effortless. Let’s get real: Planning a wedding is not easy. It takes visualization, decision-making, money, time and in many cases, family negotiations. But it doesn’t all have to feel so daunting. There’s an easier way to frame the big day, as long as you plan ahead. This guide breaks down what to think about and decide on, and when to do it for smooth sailing down the aisle. Of course, you can hire planners to help you check off some of these items more efficiently—maybe you’re on a tight timeline, or planning isn’t your jam. However you approach planning the day, make sure you let go of any items on the to-do list and just enjoy the magic you’ve created. Step 1: Visualize the Big Stuff 18 to 12 months before the wedding Pick a date and set a budget. This is when you will want to find out if parents are chipping in, so you know how much you have to work with. Decide on the size of your wedding. You can finalize the guest list later, but you need a ballpark early on. Consider hiring a wedding planner and day-of help. It’s good to know how much effort you, your friends and family members will have to make. Claim your ceremony and reception spot. Lots of places require reservations well in advance. Decide on your wedding colors and set up the bones of your wedding website. Don’t make it public yet, but get your ideas and vision in place. Step 2: Get Specific 12-8 months before the wedding Choose your bridal party and groomsmen. Invite your BFFs, and give them outfit criteria so they have plenty of time to shop for dresses, tuxes, shoes and accessories. Purchase the bride’s and groom’s outfits. When you go shopping, take along trusted people who will give you honest feedback. Decide on your officiant. You’ll want to schedule time to talk to them about what you want (and don’t want) in your ceremony. Contact several photographers and videographers, who book out wedding seasons far ahead. Once you’ve decided on the right photog, it’s a good time to do your engagement photo shoot too. Send your “save the date” cards. This means finalizing your guest list. In the Moment A perfect wedding is all in the timing. Plan ahead to save yourself stress and enjoy the magic of your day. By Marielle Argueza EVYNN LEVALLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
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Set up your registry. As soon as guests receive their save-the-date cards, they’re going to start asking about gifts. Choose a florist. You’ll be moving forward with more details in the coming months, but by now you’ve already chosen a color theme; let the expert run with it. Step 3: The Halfway Mark 8-4 months before your wedding Order all your wedding goodies. That includes invitations, guest cards, a guest book, wedding favors and thank you cards. Figure out a transportation plan for you and your guests. Do you need to hire limos or shuttles? Now is the time to step back from romance and do logistics. Hire a baker and a caterer. Reserve tables, chairs, lights, etc. if your reception venue is not allinclusive. Reserve entertainment. Do you want a DJ or a band? Lock in the date with your favorite artists. Figure out your honeymoon plans. You can dial in the details later, but you’ll want to request time off at work—both in the final days leading up to the wedding, and for your honeymoon. Block hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. They’ll want to start making reservations. It’s also time to book your rehearsal dinner venue. Figure out your hair and makeup artists and give them a test run. Make your wedding website public. It’s really happening! Step 4: Crunch Time 4-2 months before your wedding Meet up with your caterer. Do a tasting and settle on menu details. Prepare for your ceremony. Write your vows and go over the details of the ceremony with your officiant. If you are including guests in your ceremony, invite them and fill them in on their role. Schedule your rehearsal. You’ll want to get the lay of the land at the ceremony location. Mail out your invitations (or email, if you’ve going virtual). Have a bachelorette/bachelor party. This part is fun—and all about you and your friends. It’s a nice chance to take a break from planning. Step 5: Details, Details, Details 2-1 months before your wedding Head to the County ClerkRecorder’s Office for your marriage license. It’s not all party-planning; the government does get involved, too. Have a final fitting. Make sure the dress and the tux are tailored and ready to wear. Confirm RSVPs for a final guest count. You’ll want to finalize the number for vendors, and also figure out a seating plan. Re-edit vows and reception speeches. Make sure your desired toastmakers are working on their toasts, too. Step 6: Down the aisle The week of the wedding Finalize transportation details. Make sure the wedding party and family members know when and where to be. Go over rental and cake delivery details. It can’t hurt to check in again and make sure things are on track. Prepare payments and tips for vendors and the officiant. No one wants to have to hit the ATM on the morning of your wedding. Especially if you haven’t hired a coordinator, it’s a good idea to entrust a close friend or family member to handle some logistics tasks. You don’t want to be checking your texts for a last-minute update about the florist delivery the morning of the big day, so identify your key players and line up all the contact info that is needed. Have your rehearsal dinner. Try not to be nervous—the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner are supposed to help it all flow smoothly. Get married. This is what you’ve been planning on for a year! RYAN CHARD SMITH 36 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2025-2026 ADVICE MICHAEL DADULA
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