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Testimonials to The Abbey

Last Saturday I had the pleasure of witnessing two very remarkable people share a  sweet and sentimental exchange. As their guests looked on, Jillian and Kyle stood before the fountain of The Darlington House and professed their love for all to see. Perfectly orchestrated by Officiant Lois Baldi, the ceremony touched the hearts of all in attendance and also left them smiling. A choice to add a 38 year old flower-boy was certainly an element that helped to create the perfect balance between the emotions. Fortunately, Abbey preferred photographer, Deb Shields, was there to capture every unforgettable image for the family to cherish forever.

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.

Photos courtesy of  Deb Shields Photography

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Where else could have been better to hold a fabulous Asian-inspired rehearsal dinner for 70 people than a private residence overlooking Mission Bay and SeaWorld’s spectacular fireworks. The venue definitely gave the event a very intimate cozy feel where the guests were able to mingle freely. To make the day as stress-free for the client as possible, our staff at the Abbey arranged for all of the rentals, such as the linens, tables, chairs, belly bars, staff, and of course our gourmet food.

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.

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What a spectacular day at Marina Village to celebrate Kimberly and Tim’s wedding. A beautiful ceremony on the South Lawn gave way to a reception to remember at the Sunset Room. Kim was radiant in her gown and glided into the room with a dashing Tim on her arm to share their love with all in attendance. Our Abbey team led by  Brandon handled every need to ensure the happiness of our guests. Fantastic food and a flurry of cocktails flowed freely to charge everybody up for a night of celebration . Kim’s mom Cari delivered a sweetly sentimental toast that touched everyone present. With big shoes to fill Jim, Kim’s dad, came next and entertained the guests and got them in the mood for a fun night capped with the musical stylings of DJ Randy’s own Blake Lindquist. A beautiful night to remember and a true pleasure to be a part of. Best wishes Kimberly and Tim!

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

Photos Courtesy of Di-lanatta’s Photography

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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!

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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.

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This loving couple started their journey of being married to one another at the La Jolla Darlington House on Saturday July 31th. The ceremony and reception were decorated with deep purple and delicate white linens. After the “I Do’s” were said, the night began with a full sit down meal served to all 130 guests. Everyone was very pleased with the efficient and orderly superb service. For dinner we served our highly desired Citrus Marinated Chicken, cooked to perfection and finished in Champagne, fresh herb and light cream sauce. The duel entrée was completed by Black Angus New York Strip rubbed with sea salt, fresh herbs and stuffed with garlic and seasoning carved for each guest according to their temperature liking. The unique colors and ambiance created by the music was a heartwarming experience for both, the special couple and their guests. As guests partied at the end of the night there was a feeling of pure love and joy in the rose garden, where the wedding nuptials had taken place.

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!

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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.

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Every event, be it a wedding,  party or fund raiser, wants to be able to leave a lasting impression on it’s guests.  This can be achieved in a variety of unique ways.  One such way is by including the one of a kind,  Abbey Signature Martini Tree.  Holding  99  martini glasses, filled with any kind of beverage, appetizer, or floral piece,  this event enhancer is sure to be talked about.  We were able to utilize this item in a very attractive, eye-catching way at the recent 2010 Art Alive: Culture and Cocktails event. Our Abbey Team, was able to make the tree stand out with many different flowers that tied into the theme of  the evening.  To say that the tree was a conversation piece would be an understatement.   One event goer was heard saying,  “That would be great for our outdoor family reunion”.   Aside from the beauty of this amazing piece, it is extremely versatile as well.  Being able to access it from almost any direction, keeps the flow of guests is smooth and effortless.  I think that this is a feature that would enhance any party and will continue to expand as we utilize it more and more.   If you too would like to have this at your next event, please let us provide you with thoughts, ideas and ways to utilize this incredible event feature.  Just get in touch with us here.

Photo by Di-Lanatta’s Photography

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A beautiful day in La Jolla set the tone for one very special couple Kathy &  Bob.  The table settings were immaculate and the cake was a work of art.  Appetizers flowed from the kitchen as guests  mingled in the courtyard awaiting the arrival of our Bride and Groom.  Bob was dashing in his tuxedo and Kathy was a vision of perfection. The music kicked up and dinner service started. Our chefs knocked another one out of the park with a spectacular presentation at the buffet. Our team came together to wow and amaze yet again.   Best wishes Bob and Kathy on a life filled with love and happiness.  To find out more about the La Jolla Woman’s Club Venue or any other San Diego site, start you journey here.

Robert B.

No Comments | Tags: la jolla, tablescape