Who is your favorite Harry Potter character? Come make memories, we can help you host….

We at Abbey Catering and Event Design know that, at a wedding, all eyes will focus on your tablescapes, so it’s important to get it right. A well designed table can bring color and life to any party setting and will direct the eye to the things that are important in the arrangement.
A common starting point is with the color scheme, and many brides choose to compliment the colors of the wedding attire with the theme of the reception room. While there is a good reason to do this, there are also other options which will liven up the room and really impress your guests. Going monochromatic and highlighting different shades of the same color adds a look of boldness and grandiosity, and working with your existing colors ties everything together to create a unified look. One daring suggestion is to work with all of your main and accent colors, alternating the colors between tables. Another is mixing square and round tables.
We’ve been keeping a close eye on the trends and fashions of 2011 and one subject that has been big news is the use of themes to provoke a series of ideas. A great example of this is a Twilight-inspired tablescape, using an apple – a feature on the front cover – as a recurring theme throughout the ornaments and colors on the table. Using your favorite moments, books, films or even fairy tales, The Abbey will work with you anyways we can to create your vision and give your event a memorable and unique edge.

The original Abbey built for royal ceremonies, events, weddings and other parties.

The most talked about event of this year will likely be the royal wedding of Prince William and his lovely bride to be Kate Middleton.  All happening on the 29th of this month this very exclusive, all inclusive event has been on the lips of many over the previous months.

Imagining your own wedding right now? Wouldn’t you like to have your own Royal Wedding, filled with the same luxurious foods, colors and ambiance of which all your guests will talk about for years to come?

Just one of many choices to decorate your wedding cake prepared by our favorite catering vendors.

We can help you make it happen, with our highly qualified staff. We will take care of your every need and treat you like the royalty you are. Just talk with our Event Planners to get started today.

Be treated like royalty for one day, ask about our exclusive royal wedding package and let us see what we can do for you.

This couple brought an amazing twist to a special day not only for theme but to friends and guests as well!! Working with the deaf community, her wedding was catered with interpreters for the deaf. The wedding ceremony, toast, and dance were catered with interpreters for all guests to love, cherish, and enjoy. It was truly remarkable and left a spot for softness in all guests’ hearts.

Neatly designed wedding cake by food caterer to fit your gourmet desires.

Table setting for wedding ceremony created by catering and event planning staff.

Getting married? Then get event planners to create your wedding reception.

Each table had center pieces of three foot vases designed by Artquest Florists. The vases were filled with floating lemons and a beautiful arrangement of yellow, white, and red roses bursting from the top, while full bloom pussy willows wept enchantment over the table. Held at the La Jolla Women’s Club, the reception provided a perfect pinch of elegance and spring class!

Flower arrangements vary in size, shape and color but each has its own aura of elegance and beauty.  Click ahead and share you ideas for  flower arrangements and event designs….

The vibrant royal blue was the main color of the wedding and thus, everything else seemed to fall into place. It was held at the Immaculata Church at USD which couldn’t have been a more suited place with its desirable blue ceilings and wall draperies. Eighty guests were invited to this special ceremony to have their hearts filled with love and joy for the couple’s special union.  The reception was held at the La Jolla Women’s Club. It was also decorated with royal blue linens center pieces with a broad range of bright colorful flowers, and accompanied with silver chivari chairs that brought class to the room like no other.

Wedding bouquet for the bride getting married, Catch It!

The Wedding Ceremony and the exchange of wedding vows.

Wedding ceremony after party hosted by us the catering and event staff.

That perfect wedding cake for those fun wedding photos...cake in your face.

Catering menu picked and tables set for gourmet foods and caterer special dishes.

Guests experienced fine dining provided by the Abbey Catering and an open bar to with a wide selection of cocktails. DJ Randy kept all on their feet throughout the afternoon and not a moment passed that Julie Buchta didn’t capture with her amazing photography. This was most certainly one for the books and will be talked about in a once upon a dream for ever and always!

The color scheme mesmorized every guest instantly and your wedding can be just the same, so click ahead and tell us a story we could tell our children about your ceremony with your prince charming…

A wedding sea breeze

The Nelson Wedding was a one of a kind wedding with nothing routine about it. On March 26th the Nelson party gathered at Ocean View Villas in San Diego, California for the wedding of Kelda and Erick.  The bride and groom wanted a real casual, fun, social wedding, that was different from your typical traditional wedding. This allowed us to get creative and really have some fun with the design. There was not any assigned seating at this wedding and instead we choose to use lounge furniture and belly bar tables to provide spots for the guests to hang out, lounge, and have a good time. There were tables and chairs for some guests, but the idea was not to force people to be sitting down the whole wedding, which gave the wedding a great vibe and guests had an awesome time. This wedding is an example of what we as a company can provide to those who choose to stray from the “typical wedding”; not that there is anything wrong with the ”typical wedding”, but it is not for everyone.

Served ocean crisp

After the wedding we jumped right into our cocktail hour and provided our guests with some of our signature appetizers and drinks. We then prepared for the grand entrance and shortly after The newly wed’s family and friends were treated to 3 dinner stations: Our custom “SHAKEN NOT STIRRED,  SALAD STATION.” Our “TASTE OF HOME” station including Chianti-Braised Short Ribs with a Red-wine DemiGlace, Rosemary Scented and Parmesan Mashed Potatoes and Grilled Market Vegetable Garnish. The “TASTE OF THE ORIENT” station with Marinated, grilled, sliced chicken breast, Buckweat soba noodles/With Garlic Soy Reduction Pan Roasted Summer Vegetables/Button Mushrooms/Thai Peppers/Onions served in Chinese TOGO boxes with Individual Chopsticks. After dinner the newly weds cut their Norwegian cake and we opened up the DESSERT STATION with Individual Creme Brulee’s topped with fresh blueberries.

Typical is not how we do things at the Abbey, and we know you don’t want a typical wedding, click ahead and make your wedding unique to you…

tree with fruit infused champagne

You are such  true professionals. You made every idea I had about the wedding come true and exceeded every expectation I had.  Every time we spoke, you made me feel like I was the only bride you had as a client even though I know you were always in high demand! You genuinely cared about our wedding and went to every length to ensure our satisfaction.  I cannot express my thanks to you enough; you honestly gave us perfection.The entire Abbey experience was amazing.  Every single person that had a hand in our wedding made it as special as if it were their own.  I felt so calm and confident knowing that every detail was taken care of by the Abbey staff.  I can honestly say that I was never “stressed” about any part of the wedding planning or the actual day because of the trust I had in the Abbey and the vendors I had chosen.  It is clear that everyone takes pride in their work and is shows in every wedding they do.  So thank you to Robert, Rob,  Arturo, Randy, Blake, Tande, Babycakes and all the service professionals for making our day perfect.

With warmest regards

We really enjoy making people happy…whether planning events, and weddings or just taking care of the little things…At The Abbey you’ll never have to sweat the small stuff…

Please feel free to contact Rob Leszewski directly at (619)204-1192 or rob@theabbeycatering.com to take advantage of this wonderful special or for any more information.  We’ve got plenty more to offer and please feel free to mention this blog posting for an extra discount on your custom proposal as well.

We’re always running specials and discounts to better accommodate, and currently we’re also offering them for preferred venues.  Just give me a call or email and I’ll be sure to do my best.  Thanks in advance!!!

Table with White Chavari Chairs

Chavari Chairs in Mohagany

Gold Chavari Chairs with white cushions

The Abbey would love to help you add more elegance to your already beautiful day with our signature Chiavari chairs, ask the team for details.
 

Something Old

Sometimes couples want a different type of wedding.  A little change from the norm.  Most weddings have structured tables and chairs, seating for all guests, and the usual.  Not to say that’s a bad thing… that’s how my wedding was for over 300 guests.  But now “flow reception’s” are becoming much more popular.  There are no rules really, just whatever you want and envisioned for your reception.

LoungeSeating

Typically, we’ll arrange for seating for approximately 25-50% of your guest count.  I can arrange for assorted sized tables from 48″ cocktail tables to seat 4-6, 60″ dining tables to sit 8-10, and Belly Bars to accommodate the rest of your guests standing comfortably with drinks and food.  We can also arrange lounge furniture which is a HUGE hit at these type of events.

Something Borrowed and Blue

For the food, we try to go with the same theme.  Tray-passed appetizers for the Cocktail Hour, Stations with a variety of options served in smaller portions so your guests can continue from one station to the next.  All in all everything’s ultimately up to you and we’re here to accommodate in any way.  It’s YOUR wedding after all.

Appetizers to Die For!

Appetizers Galore

Specially Catered food for all your guest

The Abbey would love to help you plan your big day, and we work with many of the top venues in San Diego and other locations to make your wedding dreams come true.

The Sweetheart's Table

Completed Guest Table

Enter the Darlington House, La Jolla, for a one-of-a-kind wedding with a custom design. From the flower arrangements to the apples in the water glasses, this wedding was truly unique and beautiful. The Fall color scheme of the floral arrangements, and the fruit with guest’s table numbers on them, gave an individual feel to the wedding and provided this San Diego location with colors not often seen. The hints of orange, red, and brown in every aspect of the decor gave the wedding an authentic and warming Autumn feel without the gloomy Fall weather!

The Abbey Team, helped to give this wedding many of its unique touches, including a custom wedding cake designed on-site to correspond with the whole theme. Where else would you get this passion for creation, other than The Abbey?  There were many small details of this reception that added to the overwhelmingly warm feel; the flowers in the fountain, the candles surrounding the venue, the colors of the tables, the floral designs, the mood and lighting… even the guests contributed. DJ Randy and The Abbey staff helped to rock this wedding out, and we provided the newlyweds and all their guests with the service we are known for… the best.

If you are interested in seeing how The Abbey can help you create something unforgettable at the Darlington House, La Jolla, contact us here!

Dining Area & DJ Randy

The Abbey Team adds finishing touches to an Autumn-inspired wedding cake

Sample Table & The Wedding Cake

Wedding Colors

Thee Apple Themed Wedding

From there, Abbey Event Captain Warren took main stage delighting guests to a bevy of The Abbey’s finest appetizers. Dinner service gave way to dancing as our couple, who could not have been sweeter, celebrated an evening filled with love. Jillian and Kyle, it was a true pleasure to be a part of your day. Thank you from the entire Abbey Team.

To find out more about the fabulous Darlington House in La Jolla….contact a Event Consultant here.

Darlington House Ceremony for Jillian and Kyle

An Intimate Garden Setting

The Couple's Table

The Ever So Happy Couple

Photos courtesy of  Deb Shields Photography

The flow reception lasted for three hours. This meant that the guests were able to enjoy themselves without haste. One and a half hours were dedicated to cocktail hour with an open bar while we served our very popular beef wellington, refreshing Ahi Poke served on cucumber rounds, coconut crusted shrimp, and of course our famous hummus: Roasted Garlic, Indian spice, and roasted red pepper. For the last hour and a half our guests enjoyed the station style dinner. The Asian themed dinner consisted of marinated salmon over pad Thai noodles, chicken kabobs with Teriyaki sauce served over fried rice served in cute Chinese take-out boxes.

The themed colors were a crisp white, green, and different shades of orange, and the beautiful flower arrangements done by Erin Kluzak made this evening even more spectacular! Another great event that I am very proud to have been a part of!

Contact us here to find out how we can transform your venue into the reception you’ve always dreamed of.

The sun sets on a beautiful rehearsal dinner

Candles and flower arrangements set the scene

Delicious treats from the Abbey

Mouthwatering appetizers from the Abbey

Another spectacular Abbey tablescape

Interested in organizing your wedding at the Sunset Room in Marina Village? Click here to request further information.

The Gang's all here.

Stealing a special moment together.

Waterfront Reception all decked out.

Tablescapes from our Director of Design

Photos Courtesy of Di-lanatta’s Photography

Envy-green tablescapes wowed a lucky selection of guests

The most intricate wedding that I have ever had the pleasure to attend took place in Balboa Park, the perfect canvas for such a beautiful event to occur. From the beginning of our set up, The Abbey team put their sweat and hearts into making James and Mary’s dream wedding come to life on their special day of Saturday, August 28th, 2010.

This wedding unfolded when the guests first walked through a set of tall iron gates into their own private party. The Jameson’s fantasies came to life with florals provided by Caring Florists and lounge furniture. Guests were entertained from beginning to end at this wedding. Hors d’oeuvres were passed through the cocktail area while guests watched family members dance to their carefully choreographed ensembles. Bars were available in multiple locations as well as a bronze espresso bar from Euro Bar. While martinis were shaken and lattes were poured the bridal party was anxiously awaiting their formal introduction to kick of the celebration.

As family and friends walked to dinner through the masterpiece created by our Abbey Team,  their eyes could not stop wandering as they took it all in. The decor was off the top. The auditorium was dressed from head to toe, and everywhere in between. The walls were draped in a white fabric so that blue and green spotlights could create a tranquil atmosphere. Tables in every size; square, round, and booth style, were set in particular patterns to create the perfect Fung Shui and mixed fabrics, textures, floral, candles, and candy apples. Chaffers were steaming as The Abbey Chefs lowered each component onto the stations. One by one tables were excused to make their way to the feast. Most guests couldn’t help but have a sample of everything. While the adults were making their way back to their tables their children were already full-bellied and content at a specially created table where they could entertain each other for a stress-free night. Lollipops and candy from the Bride and Groom provided the perfect energy supplement for them to hop out on the dance floor and perform their dance to hot new remixes for the crowd. With satisfied appetites, great company, and amazing surroundings this would be a hard night to not enjoy!

If you would like The Abbey Catering to organize you a breathtaking event at the San Diego Museum of Art, our advisers would love to hear from you!

Cream colors and green accents matched perfectly with the flower arrangements

The beautifully decorated venue of the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park was a great place to celebrate the joining of Mary Ann and James. The lounge area was decked out with custom furniture of crisp white leather and wrapped curved benches arranged elegantly around the outdoor courtyard. The linens were themed in absolutely beautiful traditional black and cream colors with some rich bright green accents tastefully accompanied by paisley black and white swirls. The contrasts really popped out with floral center pieces carefully positioned to compliment rather than obstruct the views for the table guests.

The elegance of the picture perfect event set on August 28th 2010 was created with the Abbey for a completely custom look and was a beautiful sight to see for a grand entrance. The venue was spread out all over the vast grounds and every inch of space was utilized for lounging and the performances that kept the party going all day. The walls were draped from the floor to the ceiling with naturally flowing white linens falling to the ground.

The Abbey Catering & Event Design made the decor of the party really stand out. At the start of the evening as the guests arrived into the courtyard, a

The sleek white head table, along with wedding presentation

breathtaking arrangement of flowers and large fruit display with trays of assorted gourmet cheeses and crackers greeted them. The best of our appetizers were prepared fresh and served hot, each beautifully garnished and plated. The traditional Abbey appetizers were served; elongated baguette slices with our tri-colored bruschetta, fresh herb hummus, Ahi poke on crisp wontons and delicious coconut shrimp. The next portion of the night was the Abbey Signature salad with dried cranberries and caramelized walnuts, topped with a yummy raspberry vinaigrette.

At the same time, the younger guests were treated to our bowtie pasta with chicken tender and fresh fruit. As always, The Abbey provided an alternative option to the main course which on this occasion was our delicious Portobello stuffed ravioli. The delicious Salmon en Croute saw fresh wrapped wild salmon in a pastry with sauteed spinach, wild mushrooms and goat cheese with a grilled vegetable risotto. The mouth watering braised short ribs done to perfection as always in a red wine demi glaze over truffled mashed potatoes with fresh summer asparagus.

Contact us here to find out more about organizing your beautiful wedding reception at the San Diego Museum of Art, or any other of our breathtaking preferred venues.

As one of The Darlington House’s Preferred Caterers, we can make you wedding spectacular anytime of year.  Contact one of our professional consultants here today!

Crab Cakes Anyone?

Purple Themed Tablescapes

Individaul Place Settings

Simple Elegance in a Cake

The Centerpiece

The Ceremony

The Modern Bride

The Abbey Signature Martini Tree

The wedding day of this special couple was located at the bay front Coronado Community Center. There were 200 privileged guests which attended this marvelous event. Outside, on a luscious green lawn the couple said “I do” while a harpist was gently plucking peaceful tunes. The color scheme of this wedding was chocolate brown and purple, with the two colors creating an impeccable harmony inside the reception hall. The center pieces for the tables had branches of a Manzanita, with dangling  chains of crystal beads, some of which had candles that created a delicate ambiance which the guests enjoyed along with their entrées. White orchids added to the center pieces elegance and sense of bliss.
The main courses were presented as four separate gourmet stations scattered throughout the reception room to maintain a good flow of service and efficiency for the guests. A “Glamorous Slider Bar” was the first station and served up some scrumptious all Angus beef sliders supplied with a surplus of condiments. Another station had authentic Mexican cuisine including flat ironed “Carne Asada”, “Pollo Asada”, a papaya salad medley with organic greens, slivered almonds, Cotija cheese and topped with a citrus honey vinaigrette. To accommodate any desire and taste, an Oriental station was also presented with appetizing Buckwheat Soba noodles with a garlic soy sauce and pan roasted button mushrooms and Thai peppers all served in Chinese “To-Go” boxes. Last  but in no way least… the Mashed Potato Martini Bar.  Glass Martini glasses filled with garlic mashed potatoes hung from our unique Signature Abbey Martini Tree and  was a phenomenal success.
The clients left the reception with all of their expectations exceeded and created memories they will carry with them forever.  For more information about The Abbey create a spectacular event for you or to get details about the Nautilus Room at Coronado Community Center, click on over to our site here.

The Abbey Martini Tree

Photo by Di-Lanatta’s Photography

Robert B.

Spacious venue with simplicity in mind.

Traditional cake with an exotic touch.

A unique tablescape personalized for the bride and groom.