ISES

ISES is the acronym for International Special Events Society. This organization’s was founded in 1987 to foster enlightened performance through education while promoting ethical conduct.

I have joined the committee for ISES' 8th annual fundraiser on July 16th 2008 at the Park Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles. BEVERLY HILLS EVENT LOCATIONS Park Plaza Events The property is absolutely stunning and remeniscent of the 1930's Hollywood.


The proceeds benefit two amazing causes:

Life Through Art Life Through Art Foundation. This organization is committed to funding educational opportunities for young students pursuing various forms of education in the arts including but not limited to Theatre, Visual Arts, Dance, Music, Creative Writing, Film Studies and Culinary Arts.

SEARCH Foundation Search Foundation ISES (International Special Event Society)
Since 1997, SEARCH has had one single minded purpose, to find a way to help special event industry members who are confronted with catastrophic circumstances.

We are working hard to ensure that as event professionals we have a quality product and event put together for supporters and attendees of all three associations. The players I have met so far who have united to recreate the Glamour of Old Hollywood are incredible to work with. I am very excited to be on board with this great opportunity. If you are interested in either attending the event, or donating your services, please email me at zohe@eventsofsantabarbara.com or view Invitation

Elvis Has Entered The Blog!

I always enjoy it when clients "mix it up" a bit and have fun with their event. These photos were taken by Michael and Anna Costa at a wedding at the DoubleTree. The Groom really had a passion for Elvis...so the Bride surprised him during the reception by bringing in an Elvis impersonator. This guy was hilarious...but he took himself seriously! (Down to the vodka drinks and sweaty forehead!) I would recommend this guy in a heart-beat! He was so entertaining and the guests loved it. The most important thing in planning an event is to really personalize it. Put your stamp on it and make it memorable.

The Historic Biltmore Hotel...

These are some photos from a wedding we did at the wonderful Four Seasons Resort in Santa Barbara, also known as the Biltmore Hotel. It is such a lovely place for a wedding or event. It can be as grand or as intimate as you desire.

This particular wedding was during the winter season...which made it all the more cozy, romantic and sweet. Having a wedding during the off peak season can really save you some money on vendors, and will allow you to have more selection and availability options.

There is beauty in Santa Barbara even on a rainy day--it's gorgeous!

Awesome Idea...

Ok. Here is another cool idea for all of you creative Brides and Grooms. There is a place called "The Wedding Ring Workshop". You can make and design each other's rings. Pretty cool concept. They make the rings in plantinum and gold. Prices aren't posted because the precious metals market is so volitile right now, and the prices are changing daily. After your rings are done, their master jewelers can mount any stones you want on your ring. Check out their site at www.weddingringworkshop.com.

For the Men...

In my never ending quest for new ideas...I have stumbled on a really cool new site just for the guy who is getting married. What a great concept! The site is called www.themanregistry.com . Its a site full of ideas, checklists, and resources. The special guy in your life can even register for his own "must-have" gifts. The web-site was started by 3 brothers, who noticed when all of their friends were getting married...the registry choices often centered around the girls. So, they created this site to give the guys some options too! Check it out! Let us know what you think of it!

Follow up to Rental Posting...

Just FYI- www.coastalescapes.com is offering a 25% discount on select rentals on select dates this summer. There are some great deals to be had out there.

To Rent or not to Rent---that is the question!

I am frequently asked various questions about home rentals in Santa Barbara:
1-Is it more economical than renting a hotel?
2-What are the best areas to rent?
3-Could I have a rehearsal dinner or brunch at the rental?
4-Is there a minimum of days/nights we must stay?

Great questions, many different answers depending on the location and the situation. I have listed some of the best sites to find rentals in our area. In addition to these some of the local realty companies also have rental divisions. Often times, it is easier to negotiate a rate and/or a reservation time with a rental home rather than a hotel. Do keep in mind, we have some of the most beautiful hotels in the area, but everyone has different needs; and for some the rental market is a much better fit. Do-write a list of pros and cons to renting a home versus staying at a hotel. Don't-wait too long...everything books up fast!

http://www.coastalescapes.com/ -Rental Homes
http://www.sbbeachrentals.com/ -Santa Barbara Beach House Rentals
http://www.hotspotsusa.com/ -Santa Barbara Hotel Accommodations Service
http://www.santabarbararealestatevoice.com/ -Local Real Estate Information
http://www.coastalhideaways.com/ -Great service for those looking to rent a coastal hideaway
http://www.sbluxuryrentals.com/ -Professionally managed luxury rental properties
http://www.vrbo.com/ -Vacation rentals by owner
santabarbara.craigslist.org -See link for vacation rentals

We can also recommend a few homes you may not find on these lists.

The Story of Stuff

I'm not exactly sure where I first saw this site...but it is awesome. Check out : www.thestoryofstuff.com . It is an amazing illustration on how we as consumers impact the world around us. It's not the political stuff we are force fed every day... its really as simple as a story. I would reccommend it if you have 5 min to spare!