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Rushing waterfalls, blooming scenery and lush bamboo groves set the scene for the exotic wedding ceremony  at San Diego Botanical Gardens. The bride, groom and their 200 close friends and family got to share this beautiful occasion in a breathtaking setting. Tucked away into corners of the gardens were romantic details; pictures of the happy couple throughout their courtship, a photo printing station so that guests received instant memories of the special day and a sign-in book where they wished the loved-up pair future happiness. The all-inclusive package meant a stress free day for the bride and groom and allow them to focus, enjoy, and relish their special day. This striking jewel-toned themed wedding was highlighted by a gourmet 3 tiered cake from Baby Cakes, classic hairstyles and flawless make-up by Leland, the talented and trained eye of videographer Tareq, skilled creative photographer Deb Shields, and extraordinary flowers by Artquest Florist. Wine from the family vineyard made the day even more memorable and beautifully complimented the Mediterranean styled dinner prepared by highly trained Abbey Catering chefs. Family and friends rounded off the evening dancing under the stars to the sounds of the Matt Yeakley band and DJ Alex Trumbo. Everyone was left aglow with the magic of the evening and memories that will last a lifetime.

For more info on this fabulous outdoor venue, please feel free to contact us here with any questions we can help you answer.

Photos courtesy of  Deb Shields Photography

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As long-time friends embraced amidst the Lavender Star Flowers and Jerusalem Sage, champagne and home-made wine flowed freely from the bamboo bar in the Herb Garden during cocktail hour.  Eggplant Fritters, home-made hummus on warmed pita and Coconut Crusted Golden Shrimp tickled the taste-buds of elated guests as they strolled arm-in-arm down dirt and cobbled paths of the San Diego Botanical Gardens.

Last Saturday, as the coastal haze provided a welcomed break from the afternoon sun, Jennifer and Johnathan celebrated with 175 of their closest friends and family in the simply breathtaking surroundings.

To an onlooker, it was as if this dinner reception took place in The Secret Garden.  Light-blue twinkle lights accented the garden at sunset as guests indulged in citrus marinated chicken (in a white-wine beurre blanc), Chianti-braised Black Angus Beef, citrus-infused Basmati rice with bay leaves and perfectly sauteed seasonal veggies.

After dinner, tables were cleared and guests boogied the night away to hip and modern mixes spun by the bride and groom’s chosen DJ, occasionally taking a break to enjoy the home-made cookies provided by the bride and groom or a slice (or two) of the 3 tiered red velvet and blood orange wedding cake.

Contact us here to find out more about holding your special event at the San Diego Botanical Gardens, or any other of our breathtaking preferred venues.

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New York & Louisiana converged on the rooftop of the La Jolla Cove Suites, to the delight of our happy couple,  Kelly & Patrick.  Reverend Tuttle kicked it off with a sentimental and  joyous ceremony, that gave our couple and  guests a taste of good times to come. Classical guitar styling by artist Miles Moynier filled cocktail hour as everyone was treated to some of the Abbey’s finest appetizers. Led by Abbey Captain, Warren Carlyle, the team was extremely diligent and handled every guest with care and  good humor. Dinner service was fluid and offered a sampling of surf-&-turf with our own Chianti braised Black Angus beef and shrimp skewers to compliment the beach themed La Jolla landmark. DJ Randy delivered another stellar performance, energizing the crowd with an eclectic sampling of songs chosen by our happy couple. The topper to the evening was a delicately crafted creation by San Diego’s own Flourpower!  The cake was gorgeously accompanied by a beautiful bouquet designed by Kelly with our florist Arturo of ArtQuest Florals.  Brides, be sure to check out some of his creations, they are pure magic.  The evening came to a finale with a medley of upbeat songs including a special selection by Kelly’s father and a tribute by Mr. Sinatra. It felt as though I was amongst family that night.  The love for Kelly & Patrick was truly evident in every face present and  I was so pleased to be a part of it all. Enjoy Maui you two-I hope to see you soon!

The La Jolla Cove Suites has great value, top notch accommodations and world class views. To speak to one of our event specialists about touring the rooftop venue or how The Abbey All Inclusive Package can fit your needs, contact us here.

Photos courtesy of Julie Buchta Davis Photography

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The beautiful location on Sunset Cliffs in Point Loma was the location for the joining of Katie and Matt, as they started off on a new journey as husband and wife.  The reception was held at one of the most beautiful venues, The Thursday Club in Point Loma. The Abbey Catering &  Event  Design provided a fabulous appetizing menu compliments to our  Chef Matt Berardi. The tasteful menu offered a variety of the Abbey’s special dishes. The highest caliber food is always prepared by the Abbey and we would love for everyone to come  taste the difference and enjoy our assorted buffet menus, like our mouth watering spare ribs and our truffle mashed potatoes, which are only a few items off our great menu. I would just like to say congratulations again to Katie and Matt, and that this wonderful day could not have been possible without the special care of the Abbey staff.

For more on The Thursday Club and The Abbey Catering & Event Design, we would love to hear from you here.

Photos Courtesy of Gemini Photography

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Balboa Park was honored in celebrating the joining of Brian and Ally. Their event took place in three specially chosen locations throughout the park. The ceremony was located in the Casa del Prado patio. With the high arches and unique architecture this wedding was a beauty from the get go.  Afterward, the guests traveled down a long sidewalk that was bordered by a narrow water feature. The pond was inhabited by greenery, flower, and various forms of wildlife. Cocktail hour was sure to spark smiles, thanks to both the delicious hors d’oeuvres and stunning views. Later that evening guests were escorted to The Museum of Photographic Arts where their night would unfold with music, food, laughter, and joy. With over a hundred guests to witness, the bride grabbed the microphone and sang her love to her new husband. As all guests stared in awe and you couldn’t help but feel thankful to witness one of the most magnetic chemistry between two individuals.  Congratulations to the newlyweds.

The Abbey Catering & Event Design would love to help you plan you wedding at this preferred venue or any other one in San Diego.

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The sun broke early at La Jolla Shores to welcome our happy couple & their guests. The La Jolla Bridge Club is a great space perched just above the beach with a perfect view of the ocean. Guests were greeted to the soulful tin-drum of Pat Burke and a bevy of sumptuous appetizers prepared by Abbey Chef & Founder Zapher Dajani. Lauren was an absolute vision & John very cool & dashing in his tuxedo. Lauren organized a magnificent candy bar which delighted her guests with sweet treats all through the evening. Our Abbey team worked diligently to satisfy every need and accommodate every request. As the evening wound down, I had opportunity to spend some time with Johns groomsmen and Laurens bridesmaids. All lovely and completely happy for our perfect couple. John, Lauren & I spent a few minutes at the close of their day chatting about the day. I have to say they are a wonderful couple & its a true pleasure to know them. Happy Honeymooning!

For more information about the beautiful La Jolla Bridge Club and The Abbey Catering & Event Design, contact us here.

Photos courtesy of Julie Buchta Davis Photography

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Last weekend, on a sunny day overlooking La Jolla Cove, Lauren and John sealed the deal with salt water taffy, jelly beans and M&M’s.  What a fitting homage to such a sweet love!

As friends and family readied themselves for what was sure to be a celebration “for the books”, they were greeted at the La Jolla Bridge Club with an open bar and tray-passed appetizers in a lovely sun-kissed garden.  Just over 100 thirty-somethings steadied themselves at the sight of both Stone IPA and Budlight on tap amidst a full alcohol and soda bar.  Tri-colored bruschetta, New England Blue crab cakes, coconut shrimp skewers and mini-beef wellington warmed the bellies of the enthusiastic guests as they raised a glass to honor the couple as they made their grand entrance to “Bitter Sweet Symphony” by The Verve performed on steel drums.

Inside, overlooking the magnificent Pacific Ocean, kids and adults alike, filled  themselves at a whimsical candy-bar that included old-time favorites such as salt water taffy, M&M’s, jelly beans, sour worms, jordan almonds and Swedish fish.

Dinner was an enthusiastically received, delectable, panko-crusted chicken breast and juicy, cut-to-order, Tri-tip that was served over cream cheese mashed potatoes and mixed veggies.  As guests were welcomed onto the dance-floor, they danced the night away to Journey, Lady Gaga, Stevie Wonder and the unforgettable, unmistakable musical stylings of  The Righteous Brothers.

The bride and groom were the last to leave and, as we hugged our goodbyes, they shared their excitement over a wonderful day and wonderful life to come.

The Abbey Catering & Event Design would be honored to help make your special day as memorable as Lauren & John’s day. Contact us here for more info.

Photos courtesy of Julie Buchta Davis Photography

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Sunday August 8th belonged to

our special bride and groom.

This fairytale ceremony and

reception was held at the

Coronado Community Center.

Within thirty minutes we

completed an extravagant sit

down dinner for 200 guests.

The entire wedding was very

traditional with colors of gold

and champagne. The clear and

gold crystals accentuated the

gold linens and added extra

class to this dream come true

wedding. The candle lit tables

made for a truly romantic

evening.

The floral arrangements

complimented the bridal

party’s sun kissed yellow

gowns. Just like any fairytale,

the day would not have been

complete without the horse

and carriage for pictures.

I was truly privileged to take

part of this wonderful day and

am sure the bride and groom

will live happily ever after!

We would love to help you plan

your upcoming wedding at this

wonderful venue.  Contact us

here for more information

about this amazing facility.

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On a picturesque day in Del Mar, California, the beaming bride and groom tied the knot at the Del Mar Powerhouse.  The sun glittered over the waves and a cool breeze blew as the two exchanged the vows time has woven into their relationship.

During cocktail hour, guests celebrated the union with a champagne toast and appetizers that included tri-colored bruschetta, mini beef Wellington and chicken satay.   Guests were welcomed into the dining room where they were greeted with the couple’s own take on the traditional pre-set Abbey Signature Salad including leafy greens, caramelized walnuts, fresh strawberries and dressed with a raspberry vinaigrette.

Dinner was a home-style dual presented entree that included panko crusted Tilapia, braised superior Angus beef, truffled cream cheese  garlic mashed potatoes, seasonal veggies and perfectly seasoned risotto to which the guests were hungrily obliged.

The new couple danced the night away and decided on a kiss and a cupcake for dessert.  A perfect end to a wonderful day!

We look forward to providing you with the same exquisite day in the near future by contacting us here.

Photos courtesy of Julie Buchta Davis Photography

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On Friday, the sixth of August, The La Jolla Woman’s Club was transformed into a beautiful seaside escape. With green moss balls swaying from a large picturesque tree in the courtyard guests were welcomed to their cocktail hour. As the Abbey servers delivered mouth watering hors d’oeuvres to each individual guest, they couldn’t help but smile and reach for seconds. Dinner was especially delightful thanks to a menu created specially by the bride and groom. With Mojito Chicken and Lemongrass Tilapia, you could be sure that all palettes were pleased this evening.   FlourPower made this couple’s night even more memorable by creating an original cupcake master piece. Each individual cupcake held a handmade sugar seashell blanketed by aqua blue frosting. Yum!  Nothing compliments dessert more than a fabulous European Espresso from EuroBar.  As the lights went dim the party started to heat up. The DJ, who was also a friend of the bride and grooms, spun mixes that had guests on their toes the entire night. The bride was not afraid to hike up her dress and bust out her moves when joining their guest in celebration.  As the clock neared the final hour the guest were pleased to all have been invited to an extended party nearby. Wow! What a night to remember.

As the Preferred caterer at the La Jolla Woman’s Club, The Abbey Catering & Event Design is proud to bring you the best La Jolla Wedding ever.

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It surely was a day to remember for the nearly 100 guests that

attended this special occasion . The ceremony took place at

Calumet Park in La Jolla. With the amazing ocean view in the

background, there was hardly a dry eye to be found.   The

marvelous wedding reception was held at the elegant La Jolla

Woman’s Club nearby. This lovely couple chose our All Inclusive

Wedding Package which included The Abbey limo, delightful cup

cakes from FlourPower, one of the kind photographer Tande

from Studio D,  Best Beverage Bar Service, up lights that set the

amazing tone for the entire evening, Artquest Florist, hair and

makeup, Deluxe Euro Coffee Bar and of course digital camera docking station. The digital camera docking station is provided

with each wedding package and just keeps getting more and

more popular. Guests can mingle with the camera and capture

special moments.  Then taking the  photos to the docking station

to print to take home a keepsake from the day. This wonderful

scrap book provided by our client only highlights just a portion

of this remarkable event. We were able to upgrade the couple’s

rentals to our very high end Chiavari chairs that added extra

class and elegance to the reception. We were more than

delighted by the many compliments from the guests and we

wish the newlyweds a bright and happy future together!

We would love to make your wedding just as memorable. If you

have any questions, ideas or themes you would like to discuss

about your upcoming wedding, give us a call, email or contact

us here. We can help with finding the right venue for you needs

but balanced with you budget. We can point you in the right

direction when starting to look at vendors and the services

they offer. We can even show you how one of our All Inclusive

Wedding Packages can save you time , money and headache

and still make you special day wow all in attendance.

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Each week in San Diego, I serve as event captain for a wedding I fall in love with.  Last week, as I busied myself preparing for the soon-to-be Mr. and Mrs. Bednar, I relished once again, the idea of being part of such a quirky, hip, wonderful couple’s happy day.  From the regal Calla lilies that stood audaciously in 3ft cubes vases over black and white satin linens at each table, to the delicate moss balls that hovered from a giant oak, dancing above deliriously happy guests.

The hopeful couple marked their special day in front of the beautifully famous La Jolla Woman’s Club fountain. Each guest was given a stone and asked to take part in a special ceremony, each stone holding wishes and blessings for the couple who, up to this point, have led separate lives and will now live happily united as one.

Glasses full of spirited cocktails, cucumber water, beer and wine were raised in celebration as the freshly minted Mr. and Mrs. Bednar greeted each guest during cocktail hour and dinner.  As ambrosial appetizers such as Ahi Poke and mini Beef Wellington teased the taste-buds of hungry guests, the chefs were busy preparing the much anticipated Salmon en Croute, Chianti Braised Black Angus Beef, and my personal favorite, Truffle Rosemary Garlic Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes.

The rest of the evening unfolded seamlessly and 184 full-bellied guests danced the night away in celebration of the happy couple and this wonderful day we were all blessed to be a part of.  The Abbey wishes you both the best.  Contact us here for more information about The Club or any preferred venue in San Diego.

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The first sunny day  in a month in Del Mar was the perfect gift for Tonya & Rich on their wedding day.The Del Mar Powerhouse was completely transformed by our Abbey team to delight guests. The tone was set with a casual, lounge-style ceremony. Tonya was beautiful in her dress & Rich dashing in his tuxedo. Everybody enjoyed the outdoor garden with some of the Abbey’s finest appetizers, complimented by our couples signature Pink Lemon Drop Cocktail, yummy! Ushered in and seated, our guests were then treated to a dramatic grand entrance down the stairwell straight into a sweetly perfect first dance. Dinner service was smooth and Rich and Ted , the best man, took a quick break to walk down to the beach with our bride riding high on a surfboard. Then the night was in full swing, toasts , dancing, and children running and laughing. Tonya and Rich, your friends and family were wonderful- my very best to you and the girls as you embark on your next journey.

Happy Honeymooning!

Contact us here about how you can plan your seaside outdoor ceremony at the Del Mar Powerhouse or any other Abbey Preferred Venue.

Photos by Julia Buchta Davis Photography

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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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On a picture perfect day the bride and groom tied the knot at the beautiful Coronado Community Center.  Though the  ceremony was performed at the Hotel Del, the entire bridal party made their way to the beautifully decorated outdoor patio at the CCC for the real festivities.  The bay view was the backdrop for cocktail and appetizers.  Blue paper lanterns were swinging in the breeze and added a magical touch to the scene.

To add a personal touch to the occasion, the guests names were painted on sand dollars and displayed in sandboxes to help everyone find their tables.  The Nautilus room was lovely in blue, silver and white with spectacular flower arrangements on each table.  Each guest had a delicious lemon flavored cookie in the shape of a sand dollar at their place setting.

It might be one of those little details that get over looked by most, but The  Abbey Catering  works very hard to work with clients to help make sure that the wedding they have envisioned is the wedding that they enjoy on their special day.  We would love to make your day just as special. Contact us here for details.

We congratulate the B & G and thank them for letting us be a part of their special day!

Photos Courtesy of Darin Fong Photography

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A ceremony on the beautiful beach at the Hotel Del in Coronado can be one of the most unique and memorable weddings imaginable in San Diego.  The lovely bride and groom said their I Do’s and were then whisked away to the Coronado Community Center for a magical reception be the waterfront. With over 200 guests, the venue was filled yet retained an intimate atmosphere all evening.  For Catering, the attendees enjoyed a flow reception,  with 4 different food stations to ensure everyone’s palette’s were satisfied to their hearts content. A Summer salad station served the delicious Abbey Signature Salad and Caesar salad in martini glasses. A  Baja Mexican station  accompanied by a Southern Style Station with fried chicken, gourmet white cheddar Mac & Cheese & Cajun coleslaw to give a variety to please everyone.. Last  but not least was the Protein Station serving Black Angus New York Strip with Abbey famous Southern Style Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Two different kinds of cakes and a chocolate fountain were the absolute  “cherry on the top” to close this tremendous feast.

Like many other Abbey couples,  these  newlyweds decided to take advantage of our All Inclusive Wedding Package and chose to Honeymoon in our  luxurious Maui Condo. This has always been a popular option in choosing the different package items.  We can wait to see some of the pictures from paradise.  We wish them the best on their new journey and the best of life,  today and in the days to come.

The Abbey Catering & Event Design would love to discuss some of the package options we have for your All Inclusive Wedding.  Contact us here to speak with one of our professional wedding consultants.

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There really is nothing quite like a beautiful afternoon in San Diego.  Couple that with a lovely wedding ceremony at a beautiful venue and you are bound to have a day to remember.  It was another picturesque day in downtown La Jolla at the La Jolla Woman’s Club.  Dorothy and Jeremy’s special day was about to begin and The Abbey team was quickly putting the finishing touches on a reception.  Our couple was married in front of the famous LJWC  fountain by ordained minister Lois.  The back patio was adorned with luxurious  contemporary lounge furniture to compliment the “flow” reception that was to take place right after the ceremony.  Our presented buffet, Martini Tree Bar , and Espresso Station from Eurobar also framed the back garden reception.  Afterward, the guests were treated to a cocktail hour in the garden, followed by a fantastic sit down dinner service.

Then it was time for the party to really begin.  Dj Randy took the stage and regaled guests with music selected by our happy couple. Nothing gets, and keeps, a party moving like the precision sounds of DJ Randy.  As the cake was served and the dancers began to slow down…there was no doubt that all in attendance had the time of their life.  And none more than the bride and groom themselves.  The night was a hit!

It was a distinct pleasure working with Dorothy and Jeremy to make their day so wonderful.  Congrats to the happy couple.

To find out more information about the La Jolla Woman’s Club venue, contact one of our consultants today.

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As the months turn into weeks and the weeks turn into days, the time remaining before a bride gets married shrinks at an exponential rate as the big day arrives.  There is always something on the “To Do” list that has to take priority.  Usually as things get pushed down the list, exercise gets pushed down the furthest at times.  Which in a way can makes things worse.  The Abbey Blog has been focusing for weeks now on things a bride to be can do to keep up a healthy fitness program on the road to her nuptials.  In those posts we have been focusing on different exercises, diets and regimes that will help you prepare.  But one thing that can get overlooked in regards fitness is Time Management.  Time Management can be crucial to the success or failure of any fitness program.  If enough time is not set aside for the program, it will fail.  But just setting aside time to exercise doesn’t equal success.  Proper time, the right time or quality time is critical.  A completely stressed out, hurried routine will not have the same benefit that a relaxed, enjoyed workout can provide.  In addition to that, the cool down time is not as effective because filled with worries of what needs to get done next.  And don’t even get me started with what stressed out sleep is like.

So having a good Time Management system in place can do wonders for your fitness program in helping you get the best out of what you do when you exercise.  Almost without exception, brides today are organized.  From Day Planners, to Google Calendars, to Smartphones…today’s women are organized.  But even with all those productivity apps on your phone, the amount to get done exceeds the time available.  That is where The Abbey comes in to help.  Not only will our consultants years of experience help, but those years of experience come with years of contacts and connections.  The San Diego wedding industry is massive and navigating it can be quite tricky.  We have a wide selection of vendors that we are proud to work with.  We are on a number of Venue’s Preferred Caterer Lists and are partners with The La Jolla Woman’s Club in beautiful historic La Jolla, California.  Another time saver and stress reducer…All Inclusive Wedding Packages.  The Abbey Catering & Event Design is the only San Diego company to offer a true All Inclusive Wedding Package.  With an Abbey Package, everything is covered.  The venue, food, beverages, photographer, videographer, flowers, music, coordination, officiant, limo….even the honeymoon at our luxury condo in Maui if desired.  We can make all the stress of meeting with dozens of people disappear.  And having a single source of contact can create a wealth of time for the more important things leading up to your wedding, like a fitness program.

Please feel free to contact any one of our wedding and event consultants here for more information.

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Bankers Hill is a truly beautiful part of San Diego, and nestled quietly in it rests a venue that brides dreams are made of. Britt Scripps Inn has a fairytale charm which isn’t just contained to the inside, and stood on the corner of Maple St and 4th Avenue, it’s impossible not to notice this strangely enchanting building. Every inch of the exterior is perfectly sculpted to show an authentically restored example of luxury living in the late 1800s.

And the beauty doesn’t end there, throughout this 9-room hotel you will find antique furniture, treasured textiles and rich woodwork carefully filling every inch the hallways, common areas and boutique guest rooms. Staff are attentive to your every need and all the rooms include flat-screen TVs, heated towel racks in bathrooms filled with high-end toiletries and 1,000 thread-count linens in beds you will never want to leave. If you do manage to tear yourself away from your room, the chef will be sure to reward your efforts with a full breakfast cooked to order, and free fine wine and cheese later in the night.

If you’re looking for a fairytale castle to retreat to, bring your prince charming to Britt Scripps Inn. From the welcome-chocolates on the pillow to the ‘anything you need’ 24-hour butler service, you’ll wish you could stay here happily ever after.

To learn more about how The Abbey can help make your fairytale wedding come true…contact us here for more information.

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We’re not going to lie, every bride will experience that one-month-to-go panic about their weight, the dress and how the photos are really going to look.  It makes perfect sense to be concerned, after all, it is your special day and you deserve to look perfect for it. The chances are you’ve probably already thought about a crash or fad diet, but is it really that good of an idea?

For starters, crash diets are detrimental to the condition of you skin, hair and nails on the big day. Essential vitamins come from fat which keep you glowing, so cutting these out may cause a few pounds to disappear, but you’ll also have to say goodbye to that healthy glow too.

Cutting your intake is also a bad idea. Why? Because the body has a setting we like to call ‘starvation  mode’. As soon as you limit intake to the body, it will think there is a problem and slow down the metabolism to counterbalance it. Not only will this limit fat burning, but will leave you sluggish and fatigued. Not a good idea for anyone who’s still got last minute planning to do.

Finally, denying yourself the little pleasures life allows could also add more stress to the rest of your week. While you might have the willpower to last a few days without any chocolate or alcohol, eventually any craving can make you snap, given the right amount of pressure. Instead of cutting out your favorite tastes altogether, limit them and replace them with healthier alternatives. Try a chocolate health shake or replace beer with wine.

Dieting isn’t always easy, but it is something you can achieve with a little willpower and a lot of common sense. The weight-loss equation is simple, burn more than you consume. Work in some of the exercises previously recommended in this blog for real and achievable results to get wedding day ready in a snap!

To get some healthy alternatives to traditional wedding reception fare…come over to the Abbey to ask us some questions.

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