The seafood menu has many dishes and this is one catered item for any event.

Whoever would have thought that picking food for your event could ever be so much fun?  By scheduling a tasting with one of our event planners you have the opportunity to sample some of our chefs’ most delicious dishes and then share it with your friends and family when you have that dish catered at your event.  Our chefs cook every day working to master new recipes and create dishes they can call their very own.  Reading about food is making your mouth water isn’t it? That’s exactly what we want to happen.  When you walk into our kitchens your senses are teased with a variety of savory smells.  Some of our classics here include coconut crusted golden shrimp, the abbey signature salad with raspberry vinaigrette and even the lobster tail you see here.  Are we missing something?  Not a problem because we can work with you to create a menu of your choosing.  Hungry yet?  I’m off to the kitchen to try something new right now.

Are you a food lover? Scheduling a tasting with one of our planners is the first step to having a successful event….

One of our favorite wedding dish appetizers for your catered menu.

Event Design for woman's garden club having gourmet food catering.

Center Table Setting for Special Event created by an event planner.

This specific event belongs to the  ladies of the La Jolla Garden Club and was hosted at the Cuvier Club in beautiful La Jolla, CA.  There was plenty of food for tasting and a book signing or two for small talk as the ladies began to stream in the door.  As they walked in they were met with beautiful standing flower vases and red luxurious quilt.  Entering the event hall the ladies gazed at tables filled with such things as scones, individual cakes and a variety of finger sandwiches.  Ornate, red umbrellas placed in stands floated overhead and fun decorative flower arrangements filled the center of the guest tables.  All was in place and the event begins.

All we need is a little time to prepare and you will get the event you always wanted.  Its as easy as clicking ahead and giving us a little direction and then we’ll take the lead….

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….

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…

Robert Battoe

Brides & Grooms recently engaged…the planning has begun. What is the first thing you do?  The dress, venue, catering?   No, the first order of business is to come up a realistic budget. I often tell my brides that this is a project in itself and certainly, a learning experience. With a show of hands, how many have planned a wedding before?  Ummm….i see!  Well, standards in the industry are constantly changing so what is the best method of determining an accurate budget? First things first, what is the number one most important thing to you that you will not waiver on? Answer that and then make a list of all of the elements to your design and vendors you want to see present i.e. florist, cake, photography, catering. Research that list and come up with 3 options per and then investigate their products. I say 3 because any more will overwhelm. For the photography, for example , we will need to get an estimate on everything you want from engagement photos to extra per hour charges from each candidate. Use the internet to read their reviews. Everybody has happy client testimonials but don’t neglect Yelp.  Be confident when asking for the bottom line and estimated additional costs. I offer my clients the opportunity to review their other proposals, and often they are not itemized and spelled out fully when they are reviewing them.  Find someone with a passion for what they do. Is that a personal plug?  Yes! I have references and I’m not afraid to use them . I’m of the Miracle On 34TH Street mind-set and if the Abbey’s not the best choice, I will tell you and offer you suggestions on what might be the best fit for your aesthetic or budget. This is an important day to you, and to me. Let’s make it the best it can be!

The Abbey would love to help you have the perfect picnic wedding, if you need help or tips and preparing your budget, our Team is more than happy to help you.

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.

Specialty linens on the sign-in table

One great way to customize your wedding or special event is with specialty linens for all of your tables. With so many different tables from the guest, sweetheart, sign-in, gift, cake, belly bar, etc. it’s a perfect way to personalize to your tastes and for all of your guests to see your creative side. There are many different colors and textures out there, so use your imagination and don’t be afraid to mix and match. We recently had a wedding where all of the guest tables were the same color of linen but the textures were all different, and it really provided a unique table setting while still maintaining the color scheme of their choice. Contrast is very important too. Colored specialty linens with white napkins, chairs, and plates make for a wonderful contrast and brightens up your linen of choice, making it “pop”. Even selecting white linens in a specialty texture will really make your event stand out from the norm.

Most importantly, use linens as a way to show what you want your event to be… favorite colors of the bride and groom, seasonal colors depending on the time of the year, etc. Use the existing landscape and architecture of your selected venue to help with your selections as well. Creativity and originality is key.

Choosing the Abbey’s All Inclusive package can include specialty linens, so contact us today to find out more.

Contrasts brighten up the Cuvier Club

Remembering the seasons with colors

The beautiful Bride matches the awesome view

Ocean View Villas is a dream destination for anyone looking for privacy, relaxation and ocean front cliffs leading to a secluded beach. That’s exactly what Mr. and Mrs. Elauria had in store for their big day. Ocean View Villas held a three day celebration for this happy couple. They were allowed to rent all five two-bedroom vacation residences with patios and balconies overlooking the Pacific Ocean. With Sunset Cliffs to the left and Ocean Beach to the right, we were able to enjoy the best of both worlds. 

The Abbey played a big role in the Elauria’s wedding festivities. We were honored to put this couple and their families at ease throughout their stay. The Abbey made sure to keep the party hopping by hosting a rehearsal dinner, their wedding ceremony and reception, as well as a ‘day after’ Luau.

On the Sunday I was able to take part in one of their glorious days. Although it was toasty, we hardly broke a sweat with the ocean breeze rushing in. A ceremony was set into place on top of a grassy bluff. The Cliffs of Point Loma were surely a sight to see, especially when this attractive couple stood in front. Hand in hand, with the waves crashing in the background, Mr. and Mrs. Elauria said “I do!”

As for my staff and I, this was our cue to get the ball rolling. While guests were comfortably mingling in an open cocktail area nearby, they were served delicious treats. Kahlua pork in puff pastry and Ahi Poke held off their hunger for a more plentiful meal to come. While guests were polishing off our platters and keeping fluids flowing, we were creating a showpiece for dinner to take place.

The delicious caprese salad

Artquest provided the floral arrangements

Single handedly, twelve round seventy two inch tables were rolled into place.  A half moon sweet heart table and one hundred and forty two wooden chairs were laid accordingly. Linens, silverware, and glassware were no challenge for these rockstars. Arturo brought in show-stopping centerpieces that were put together on scene. The red lamour silk napkins really helped to highlight the shades of red throughout the flowers. Fresh baked rolls, butter and salt and pepper finished off the tables. In under fifty minutes, we had taken an ordinary patio from “eh,” to “uh huh!”  Tables were set; some placed in sand pits, flip flops were in baskets; ready to be worn, the photo booth was switched on ready to capture time, and the show was about to begin. 

Umbrellas and flower balls were swaying high above from the patio and the sun was about to set. It was just then that dinner was served. After two hours of cocktails, these guests were ready to indulge. A stacked caprese salad started them off . Thick slices of plump, vine-ripened tomato, fresh mozzarella, basil, salt, pepper and Chef Matt’s special sauce created this light, yet admirable salad. Next, a combination of salmon, beef, or both, was given to the guests for dinner. Proteins were neatly placed on top of chive-risotto cakes and fresh market vegetables, creating a plentiful work of art. Shortly after the guests were allowed to rest their tummies, we had a couple more surprises!

Not only did the Bride and Groom have two wedding cakes but they were also given a Smores bar, compliments of our Abbey Team. While the groomsmen lit the fire we were able to bring on the goodies. Graham crackers, Hershey chocolates, marshmallows, brownies, and cookies were all brought out to the fire side. It wasn’t just the kids digging in tonight, it was masses of all ages and genders. There’s nothing better than bringing people together with unity, nature, and chocolate! This down-to-earth couple made a lasting impression on all who took part in their cliffside retreat.

The Ocean View Villas are perfect for any group, any occasion, any size! Contact us today to find out more.

The villas provide the use of a private beach

It was a happy day for everyone

Large tables, perfect for flowing conversations

The place cards add the personal touch

Lead Server Lin putting the finishing touches on the tablescapes!

View from Marina Village

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With windows that look out onto glistening water and bobbing sailboats, the Marina Villiage on Mission Bay is perhaps the perfect place to say I’ll love you, forever.

The newly wedded couple and their joyous friends and family arrived from the quaint ceremony on the west-facing lawn to the Sunset Room at Marina Villiage in hopes of quenching their thirst and satisfying their belly-rumbling appetites.  They were greeted with a full bar and a bartender who could sling drinks with the best of them!  As guest mingled and milled, The Abbey’s polished servers weaved in and out with trays of mouthwatering appetizers, including coconut shrimp, among others.

When the time came for guests to be seated, long, flowing black curtains were ripped from the ceiling, dramatically revealing the breathtaking tablescapes, each accented by a robust centerpiece provided by Artquest Flowers that included roses, purple tulips, and surprisingly, fresh artichokes!!

Glasses clinked as eager friends and family toasted the new couple and busy servers and chefs prepared for the much anticipated dinner hour.  Senior executive coordinateor, Petr Trebin, gracefully dismissed each table and guests made their way to the chef presented buffet, where they were greeted by a mouth watering dual entree and smiling chefs.

The rest of the night unfolded seamlessly into the traditional garter and bouquet toss, cake cutting and a not-so-conventional dance off!  The beats of DJ Niko spurred vigourous competition as guests young, and young at heart showed off thier dancing skills.

As the final song was played, the new couple held each other close and thought excitedly of things to come.

For more information about having your wedding reception at the Marina Village Venue…contact one of our professional consultants here.

Harbor View Tablescapes

Thanks to the lovely assistance of the bride and grooms aunts, set up was a breeze. Round tables were dressed flawlessly in white linens with a black and white damask overlay on top.  Each chair was covered with black and tied with a white satin bow. Voluminous, white roses and greenery embellished the tables. Glass and Silverware were preset, persuading the guest to sit and grab a bite to eat and drink.

Little by little the cool, air-conditioned room began to heat up as the one hundred and thirty seven guest began to arrive. The sun began to sink lower into the horizon giving the room a sun kissed glow. Guest maneuvered around this peerless venue absorbing each component. With a built in Dj booth and wrap around bar, a large load was lifted off our shoulders.

Horsdeourves were a HIT! Once the door swung open from the kitchen, guest were practically swarming our servers to get another bite. Ahi Poke eggrolls with sweet Wasabi and Ginger Soy drizzle were nothing shy of amazing. A unique combination of Goat cheese and Chorizo Quesadillas finished with fresh guacamole and homemade salsa had tongues tied, but in a good way. Another sweet success for our Abbey Chefs.

Chorizo Quesadillas

For more information about having your wedding reception at the Marina Village Venue…contact one of our professional consultants here.

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!

A floral archway frames the ocean view

Another venue that we hold in very high regard is the beautiful Ocean View Villas in Point Loma. This was where our sea inspired ceremony and reception took place on Saturday, August 28th. The bride and groom rented out the entire villa with views overlooking sunset cliffs and their own luxurious beach. The beautiful flowers with vibrant colors were designed by ArtQuest . DJ Randy kept the dance floor full and the guests were surely entertained by being able to make their own requests all night long! As a part of the Abbey package we also provided beautiful Aqua Dupioni and Champagne crush linens that drew everyone’s attention to the alluring tables. Throughout the entire evening the very trendy Euro-coffee bar was available, serving Cappuccinos, lattes, espressos, hot chocolate, or anything else that the guests’ hearts could desire. The sea inspired cake that was decorated with seashells, corals, and Orchids was designed by Flour Power. Tareq Zaatari, the videographer made sure to capture all of the wonderful moments and included special comments and messages from all of the 120 guests. The photography done by Narrative Images will be sure to provide everlasting memories for many years to come of this astonishing seaside wedding.

To find out more about how the Abbey can organise the perfect wedding for you at Ocean View Villas, contact one of our advisers here.

Thrones for the happy couple

An embrace framed by the beauty of the cliffs

Mouthwatering food tempted the lucky guests

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.