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ESTD. 2007

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Real Weddings Feature: Francesca + AJย 

Overview: Family and food were very important to both Francesca and AJ, who celebrated their love with a modern-meets-classic style wedding at La Venta Inn, featuring a primarily all-white wedding theme with small pops of greenery. Francesca designed all the wedding details with a strong California touch to give guests, many of whom are traveling from across the country, a sense of warmth, comfort, and the laid-back beauty of the West Coast. The weather for their summer wedding was gorgeous; being 78ยฐ F during the day, 67ยฐF at night, with sunset at 7:52pm. Even with the simple white and green floral palette, she envisioned something more elevated: airy, detailed, and full of character, not too plain, with plenty of candlelight to enhance the atmosphere. 

Francescaโ€™s Testimonial: โ€œPost-wedding life has been wonderful, and weโ€™re still basking in the magic of our day. Weโ€™re so grateful to have chosen La Venta Inn and Made by Meg Cateringโ€”the food was incredible, and our guests raved about it! Everything came together beautifully, and we couldnโ€™t have been happier.โ€

As seen on Instagram, “Married” has a nice ring to it! ๐Ÿ’

Instagram screenshot of bride wearing white dress holding bouquet with her new wedding band on her ring finger next to her groom holding up his left hand in a black suit with a new wedding band. Blue skies and palm trees in the background.

Custom Watercolor Stationery & Menus: Artist Brogan Scott handled the invitations and all the custom signage for the wedding, including the welcome sign, invitation, bar sign, menus with guests’ names at the top, and table numbers. The bride requested that the artist incorporate a venue illustration into the invitation design, along with California vibesโ€”specifically elements like palm trees and the ocean.

Invitations and Gucci Shoes and Perfume and Wedding Rings with Flat Lay of Wedding Items on Wedding Day
A table with a welcome sign. Table filled with the bride and groom with old pictures of their parents wedding pictures. Book on table with markers to sign the pages.
Table set up of a wedding plate with the food menu. Glasses and candles around the white plates. White and green colors. Palm spring and beach themed food menu.

Getting Ready: On the morning of the wedding, the bride Francesca wanted to spend peaceful, meaningful time getting ready in the Ocean Cottage bridal suite with her mother and sister before other guests arrived, creating a calm and intimate start to the day.

Solo picture of the bride wearing a white dress. La Venta in the background. Purple flowers and blue skies in the background.
Bride and two of her friends sitting and hugging on a white bench inside their room posing for a picture. Wearing white pajamas and a white night gown.
Bridesmaids helping bride put on high heels. Brides' friends are wearing different color of purple dresses.
Black and white picture of bride getting her veil adjusted during her makeover.

With a day full of positive emotions at La Venta, the bride also gifted her mother and the mother of the groom their own personalized embroidered handkerchiefs for the ceremony.

Bride hugging her mom while giving her mom a gift. Mom is wearing a yellow dress.
Bride leans in to hug her mother while the mom reads the custom gift her daughter gave her. Mom is wearing a purple dress.
The mom is reading what is written on the handkerchief the bride got for her. Mom is wearing a yellow dress while the brides wears a white beautiful dress.
A close up shot of what was written on the handkerchief. Message on the handkerchief reads " Mom. to dry your happy tears on my wedding day. Thank you for your infinite love and support, All that I am, I owe to you. Love Francesca 8.2.24" Bride is wearing her wedding read and a gold bracelet.

While there wasnโ€™t a formal bridal party, she invited her close girlfriends to arrive early and take photos together before the ceremony began.

Bride poses with her bridesmaids. Group picture. The bridesmaids are wearing different color dresses ranging from blue, yellow, pink, green, cream, torquise and orange. Floral background.
The bride does a first look with her close friends. Bride is holding a beautiful bouquet.
Bride with 3 of her close friends pose for the picture. Pink, light blue and turquoise dresses are being worn by her three close friends. Bride is holding a beautiful bouquet.

On the other side of the property, the groom AJ got ready for the big day in the private Hideaway Suite. 

Groom looks to the side posing for a solo picture. Green background with many trees and leaves. Wearing a black and white suit with a black bowtie while having his hands on his pockets.
Black and white picture of the groom. Man is sitting down on a chair wearing a black and white suit, bowtie and a watch. He is reading a book.
Groom poses for the pictures. He is fixing his arm sleeve. Wearing suspenders. His coat is hanging on a dresser.
Groom poses for the picture. He is wearing a black and white suit with suspenders and a gold watch while holding his coat on his shoulder. Floral background
Groom and his friend pose for a picture in front of a door with a small blue tent over it. They are both wearing a black and white suit with flower boutonnieres.

Featuring Pre-Wedding Food for the Bride & Groom: In the two separate getting-ready areas on property, the Hideaway Suite and Ocean Cottage, the bride and groom were able to leisurely snack as they got ready with their loved ones. They chose to enjoy an assortment of Gourmet Mini Sandwiches on Brioche Buns: House Roasted Turkey with Brie, Garlic & Walnut Aioli with Baby Arugula + Mesquite Grilled Shredded Chicken with Baby Spinach & Basil Lemon Pesto + Roast Beef with Aged White Cheddar, Garlic Aioli and Pickled Red Onion with Baby Arugula.

Two First Looks, first with the Father of the Bride & then with the Groom.

First Look with FOTB: For her first look with her father, she surprised her very proud dad in front of the keyhole lookout connected to the Oceanview Cottage. You can basically hear the love and positive words exchanged upon this warm embrace.

The bride is wearing a white dress with a long veil. She is hugging her father. Father of the bride is holding a letter while he hugs her.
The bride and her father excitedly look at each other. Bride is wearing a white dress with a long veil while holding a letter on her right hand. The father of the bride is wearing a black and white suit with a black bow and black loafers.

First Look for the Bride & Groom: The dreamiest first look on the Cottage Lawn, just South of the Ocean Cottage with serene views of the Pacific Ocean, the happiness expressed with the groom’s very first look at his bride on their wedding day melts hearts around the globe.

The bride and groom look at each other while holding hands from a far. There is palm trees and green scenery around them.
The bride and groom look at each other in a close up shot. The bride is wearing a white dress with a long white veil. She is also wearing pearl earrings and a silver bracelet. Groom is wearing a black and white suit with a black bow.
The groom looks with admiration of his bride for their first look.
The groom turns around for the first look of his bride.
The bride and groom hug each other in a faraway shot.
The groom looks at his bride with a huge smile. Bride and groom are leaning to hug each other. Groom is wearing a black and white suit with a black bow and white floral boutonniere. In the picture, bride is wearing a white veil clipped to her hair.
Candid shot of bride and groom. Bride is wearing a white dress and a long white veil. She is holding a white floral bouquet. Groom is wearing a black and white suit. There is a big palm tree in the back. They are surrounded by a green scenery.

Sentimental Florals: The most sentimental bouquet weโ€™ve ever seen, with two gold-framed portraits carried with the bride, attached with classic pearls for an extra touch of elegance, beauty, and grace.


White and green isnโ€™t just simple, itโ€™s elevated. A soft whisper of elegance through layered textures, garden-picked blooms, and candlelight that feels like a gentle exhale. Clean. Romantic. Intentional. This is minimalism with a heartbeat. Their florals included a bouquet, centerpieces, bar florals, and five halfmoon grounded arch floor florals at the altar to be repurposed at the sweetheart table.

Picture of a table layout for Table 3. There is a white and green floral bouquet. Many clear and light green glasses are the table.
Picture of the signature cocktail menus. The menu consists of spiked lemonade, beer, wine and other drinks. There is a napkin next to the sign with a custom message printed by the bride. Black small straws are provided in the table as well. Behind the sign is a floral bouquet with a green and white color themed.
Table layout of the plated dinner with a white and green color themed. There is a bouquet in the middle of the table with light green glasses and a small candle. The layout consists of one plate with the menu on top and includes 1 gold knife on the left and 2 gold forks on the right.
Another angle of the table layout of the plated dinner. There is a small vase with a white floral bouquet with green stems. The table consists of 2 candles, light green glasses and clear wine glasses. The plate has a napkin and menu inside. There is 2 gold forks on the side.
Overview of the ceremony. Overlooking a water view. In the middle of the ceremony is a white and green floral arrangement. On the left and right side contains brown seats for the guests. Blue skies and green bushes on the background.
Close up shot of the white and green floral arrangement of the ceremony stage. Blue skies and green bushes in the background while overlooking an oceanside view.
Close up shot of the bride and her bouquet. Bride is wearing a white dress and white veil. Her accessories contains a gold ring. Brides' nails are neutral colored. The bouquet of the bride contains two gold pendants with two pictures of different ladies.
Another close up shot of the bride's bouquet. White and green themed bouquet. She is wearing two gold rings, one on each of her hand with a gold bracelet. The bouquet is tied by a white clear ribbon.

Ceremony: Guests arrived at 4pm, with the ceremony starting at 4:20pm. For the processional of the groom and the wedding party, including parents, MOH & Best Man, flower girl, and ring bearers, an instrumental cover of โ€œAccidentally In Loveโ€ by Paul Hankinson played. For the beautiful processional of the bride and her father, a violin instrumental of โ€œA Million Dreamsโ€ by Taylor Davis played as they walked down the stone aisle to views of the Pacific Ocean and their loved ones smiling back at them.

The ceremony was officiated by their friend Jessica in a formal green dress that was the perfect choice to match with the lush green hedges and trees. The couple exchanged their own personal vows before the exchanging of the rings, and the pronouncement as husband and wife before being sealed with a kiss. The looks that were exchanged during the messages – there are no words. Bringing to life a girlโ€™s dream to be looked at that way on her wedding day. For the recessional of the wedding party and newly married couple, โ€œReal Love Babyโ€ by Father John Misty played as the exited the outdoor ceremony space and moved to cocktail hour. We loved that the bride and groom took time for a private moment together following the ceremony.

Picture of the ceremony. Bride is speaking on the mic while reading from a book. Groom smiles as the bride reads her note. There is an officiant in the back wearing a green dress. Blue skies, white floral and green bushes in the background.
The bride goes down the aisle with her father. The guests are smiling and clapping while they walk down the aisle. The view overlooks an oceanside.
The groom looks at his bride with admiration. The bride is reading from her note.
The bride looks at the crowd smiling as the groom is speaking to her. The officiant is speaking on the microphone. Background is an oceanside view, green bushes and a floral arrangement in the middle.
The father of the bride drops off his daughter to give away to the groom down the aisle. He is admiring his daughter and future son in law. The officiant is speaking on the microphone wearing a green dress. The bride is wearing a long white dress and white veil holding her floral bouquet. Groom and father of bride are both wearing black and white suits with a black bow and loafers. Green bushes in the background with a white and green floral arrangement.
The officiant is reading from her note. The bride is smiling at the crowd, and the groom is looking at the floor smiling. Background consists of a white and green floral arrangement, green bushes, oceanside view and blue skies.
The bride and groom excitedly smiling as they walk down the aisle. Bride is holding a white and green bouquet. The audience is clapping and celebrating at the official bride and groom.
The bride and groom share their first kiss as a married couple. Background consists of blue skies, white and green floral arrangement and an overview of the oceanside.

Cocktail Hour in the Courtyard: The Diamond Bar included top-shelf alcohols, mixers, specialties, garnishes, as well as a selection of beers (Modelo, Stella, & Blue Moon) and wines (sparkling wine: Mumm Napa Brut, white wine: Emmolo Sauvignon Blanc from Napa, red wine: Unshackled Cabernet Sauvignon by Prisoner Wine Company). 

Guests were able to enjoy reading the four different hand-written love notes by the coupleโ€”two from each of them to one anotherโ€”custom printed on the cocktail napkins. Two specialty cocktails were selected by the couple, with a matching bar sign by artist Brogan Scott:  

  • Honeyโ€™s Spiked Lemonade: Vodka, fresh thyme, MBM lemon simple syrup, and club soda, garnished with a dehydrated lemon wheel and fresh thyme sprig.
  • Manhattan Beach Marg: Tequila, Cointreau, MBM jalapeรฑo simple syrup, and fresh lime juice, rimmed with Tajin and garnished with a fresh jalapeรฑo slice & dehydrated lime wheel.
The bride is wearing a white dress with a curled hairstyle. She is hugging a guest wearing a pink dress. The background consists of a fountain, several guests chatting with each other, palm trees and green scenery.
Close up shot of a white napkin with a custom message from the groom. In the background consists of someone holding a drink with a dehydrated lemon.
Overview shot of the fountain with guests around it. The ladies in the background are wearing dresses with light pink, pink and black themed. While the guys are wearing black and white suits. In the background, there are palm trees and several greeneries.
Close up shot of a beige napkin with a custom message by the bride. Message contains "AJ, You're simply the best. God gave me you XO, Francesca" Next to the napkin is a drink with a dehydrated lemon wheel.
Picture of 3 guests of the wedding. The lady on the left is wearing a grey dress while holding a small purse. The lady in the middle is wearing a pink dress and has a wristlet wallet while holding a drink. The guy on the right is wearing a black and white suit with a black bowtie while holding a drink.
Close up shot of the bar menu. Menu consists of spiked lemonade, beer, wine and other drinks. In the background, consists of small black straws and lemon in a container.
Close up shot of a drink being held by a guest. Drink has a black straw and green leaf in the drink.
Candid shot of the guests. One lady is wearing a blue dress while the other is wearing a floral yellow dress.
Close up shot of a napkin with a custom message. Message contains. " Francesca, here's to a new chapter, i love you. have a wonderful day. AJ" Next to the napkin is a small container with cherries on the glass.
Picture of the signature cocktail menus. The menu consists of spiked lemonade, beer, wine and other drinks. There is a napkin next to the sign with a custom message printed by the bride. Black small straws are provided in the table as well. Behind the sign is a floral bouquet with a green and white color themed.
Another shot of the fountain with blue and green tiles. In the background, several guests. The ladies are wearing dresses with different colors: yellow, pink and orange. The guys are wearing black and white suits.

Tray passed hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hour: A delicious variety of miniature takes on nostalgic crowd favorites were brought around by La Venta staff on a mix of white and clear trays, served individually to guests during cocktail hour in the courtyard.

  • Buffalo Karaage Chicken with garlic pepper ranch in cones.
  • Mini LA Dog – Mini Beef Hot Dog wrapped in bacon with mayo & shishito pepper relish (mixed with garlic, tamari, lemon zest and sesame oil) in a toasted brioche hot dog bun.
  • Mini Sirloin Sliders with juicy sirloin, aged white cheddar, caramelized onions, & garlic aioli on a brioche bun.  
  • Mac n’ Cheese Poppers (Vegetarian) with marinara, fresh basil and shaved parmesan cheese.
Close up shot of one of the hors d'oeuvres. Item is: buffalo karaage chicken with garlic pepper ranch in a cone.
Close up view of another tray passed hors d'oeuvres. Item is: Mini LA Dog. A mini beef hot dog wrapped in bacon with mayo and shishito pepper relish in a toasted brioche bun.
A plate of a tray passed hors d'oeuvres. Item is: mac n' cheese poppers, with marinara, fresh basil and shaved parmesan cheese.
Picture of the bride taking a bite of a juicy slider. Bride is wearing a white dress with pearl earrings and a gold bracelet. She is also holding a black napkin.

Three grazing stations were available for guests to graze and enjoy during cocktail hour, spread between both the outdoor courtyard and connected indoor ballroom:

  • Tuscan Charcuterie Station – Truffle white bean puree, Roasted red peppers, Marinated olives, Artichoke heart francaise, Grilled zucchini petals, Tomato bruschetta, Crostini, Grilled Tuscan bread, Toasted focaccia, Cheeses – Parmesan, Mozzarella, Gorgonzola, & Cured Meats – Genoa Salami, Prosciutto.
  • Farmers Market Kebab Station – Grilled Cilantro Lime Shrimp with Roasted Poblano Sauce, Grilled Chicken Kebab with Cilantro Lime Pesto, and Grilled Steak with Chimichurri.
  • Premium Sushi Station – California Roll, Yellowtail Roll, Shrimp Tempura, Soy Sauce, Tamari, Pickled Ginger, Wasabi.
Close up shot of sushi rolls.
Picture of the charcuterie station. Guests around the table grabbing a plate. One guest is wearing a black and white suit. Another guest is wearing a light pink dress. The table contains white and green florals with small white plates.
Close up shot of kebabs inside a round chafer pan. The table has white linen sheets and a sauce for the food.
Picture of the sushi station signage. Around the sign, there are three different sauces, chopsticks and soy sauces.
The groom is eating a sushi roll. He is wearing a black and white suit with a black boutonniere. In the background there is two guest, one is wearing a beige suit and drinking a drink while the other looks directly at the camera wearing a black suit with sunglasses.
Close up view of a guests grabbing one item from the sushi rolls.
Picture of the guests through an arch green bush frame. Several guests are grabbing food while others are speaking with each other.

Reception First Look: We love when couples take a moment to admire their hard work coming to life, from a Pinterest dream to reality. Becoming a more common trend, the newlyweds took a moment together during cocktail hour to stroll through their dining setup. Seating Reveals typically happen shortly before the reception officially starts, allowing the couple to have a moment to see their reception dining space privately prior to guests taking their seats.

The bride and groom are looking at the plated dinner arrangement. The table arrangements consist of brown chair, white linen sheet, plates with custom menus, green glasses and floral bouquets in the middle of the table.
Candid shot of the entrance to the tables for the plated dinner.
The bride and groom pose in front of their table. Background consists of white and green floral arrangements.
The bride and groom admire the plated dinner arrangements. The tables contain plates with custom menus, small vases with bouquets, candles and green glasses.

Dinner Reception in the Garden Rooms: 

The white & green setting in the garden rooms created a serene vibe, from glassware to floral arrangements to impressive LED candles to watercolor menus at each place setting. Guests enjoyed the heartfelt sentimental-meets-playful speeches by the maid of honor and best man, cherishing every moment of the reception.  

They had a plated multi-course dinner service from on-site caterer Made by Meg, with rented Caleb Cotton dinner plates, White & Gold utensils, Ark Sage Goblet, Monaco Oatmeal linens and Monaco Oatmeal napkins to match the theme.

Starter Course  

  • Green Goddess Salad with mixed greens, fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, shaved parmesan, and green goddess salad dressing 
  • Warm artisan ciabatta & kalamata olive rolls served with maldon salted honey butter & herb oil mixture 
  • Kidโ€™s Menu: Crispy chicken strips with fresh fruit, carrots, and a side of fries, served with ranch and ketchup

Main Course Service, Plated Dinner 

  • Beef Entrรฉe: Tennessee bourbon glazed marinated short ribs (green name cards)
  • Seafood Entrรฉe: Sriracha garlic palm sugar glazed salmon with yuzu tamari (orange name cards)
  • Vegan Entrรฉe: Roasted cauliflower steak marinated in Mediterranean spices with a roja chimichurri, zucchini, cherry tomatoes & white lemon citrus quinoa (blue name cards) 

Sides to Accompany Main Course Proteins 

  • Grilled Asparagus with Crispy Parmesan Cheese
  • Roasted Rosemary & Garlic Fingerling Potatoes
The bride and groom are laughing while the best man is speaking to the crowd. He is holding a microphone. The table contains several mini floral bouquets.
Bride and groom smiles while the maid of honor is reading her speech. Maid of honor is wearing a light pink dress. Background consists of white and green florals.

Portraits: The golden hour portraits leading up to sunset were pure elegance. Taken on the West Garden Lawn and Walkway with views of the Pacific Ocean, lush gardens, green hedges, and La Ventaโ€™s historic cupola in the background, setting the stage for stunning photos showcasing their love on their most memorable day.

Bride and groom in a candid shot. Bride is holding her dress as they walk across the green lawn. Groom is looking at his wife with admiration. Background consists of green bushes.
A close up shot of the couple's kiss under her veil.
Candid shot of the bride and groom in front of a white bench. The background has a white building and floral plants.
The couple is hugging each other. Bride is holding her white floor lenght dress. Green scenery in the background.
The couple making eye contact with each other while sitting on a white bench. The bride has her hand around the groom's shoulder. In the background, there is a white building and floral plants.

Dessert: The theme for their desserts was delicious California charm wrapped in romance, nostalgia, and a hint of play. Brownies, cookies, mini donuts, ice cream carts, and a red velvet cake that didnโ€™t stand a chance. โ€œReminiscingโ€ by Little River Band played as they cut the red velvet cake from SusieCakes together.

The couple is cutting their heart shaped cake. Bride is wearing a mini corset white dress. Groom is wearing a black and white suit. The table consists of a few small candles, vases with flowers and two champagne glasses.
Close up shot of the dessert table. Shows two hands grabbing snacks. The variety consists of chocolate chip cookies, donuts, etc.
The couple shares a kiss after slicing their cake. The bride is holding a plate with a cake slice.
Candid shot of the heart shaped cake. Around the table is a plate with the cake slice eaten by the couple, custom napkins with messages and a knife used to slice the cake.

Dance Party in the Ballroom: The dance floor opened at 7:40pm, and the coupleโ€™s choice in music, played by VOX DJs, was top notch. 

  • Grand entrance: โ€œSunshine (My Girl)โ€ by Wuki
  • First Dance: โ€œThe Wonder of Youโ€ by Villagers
  • Father + Daughter Dance: โ€œIsn’t She Lovelyโ€ by Stevie Wonder
  • Mother + Son Dance: โ€œLovely Dayโ€ by Bill Withers
The couple hugs each other in the ballroom.
Guests and the bride are dancing in the ballroom. The bride is wearing a white dress. In the background. there is a guest wearing a yellow dress while another guest wears a grey dress.
The bride and groom are dancing solo in the ballroom. They are enjoying one of their first dance. In the background, there is several different lights to create a party background for the couple.
The guests are dancing in the ballroom. The scenery is covered with purple and blue lights in the ballroom. Several guests are wearing black and white suits with black bowties.
The bride is the center of attention in the ballroom. She is surrounded by the guests in the middle wearing a mini corset dress while holding a drink in her hand.
Many guests continue to dance in the ballroom. Many guys are wearing suspenders or black bowties. The ballroom lighting is set to red for a party scene.

F&A Wedding Vendor Team:

Visit the Venue Website | La Venta Inn

BLOG, EVENT IMAGES

Holiday Event Planning Guide for November & December

From holiday cocktail receptions to multi-course dinners, weโ€™re here to help with the different aspects of your holiday season events. From venues to food & beverage catering to decor, with recommendations for entertainment to transportation, we take the stress off so that you can enjoy your holiday season as much as your guests. We have a variety of packages to best fit your budget and requirements, and a team dedicated to helping you plan the logistics.

Looking for the dream venue for your holiday party?

Contact us for a venue quote and to set up a tour of our historic ocean view event venue, La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes Estates.ย Feel free to give us a call with any questions at 310-373-0123!

  • Capacity: 200 people max 
  • Transportation: Complimentary Parking Included + Preferred Shuttles Available 
  • Seating: Variety of Complimentary Tables + Chairs Included
  • Versatile Event Spaces: Full use of 4x main indoor rooms + 2x outdoor spaces
Sign for Outdoor Hot Chocolate Beverage Station at La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes with a red poinsettia on the bar and a glass with candy canes, all in natural sunlight outside
Outdoor Beverage Stations
Historic Fountain Decorated at La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes with giant red ornaments and multiple red poinsettias at the base of the fountain, all in natural sunlight outside. Behind the fountain, you can see silver chafing serving dishes with warmers on a table with white tablecloths
Courtyard Buffet Stations
Long wooden tables with many wooden chairs tucked in set up for wreath making workshop at A Very La Venta Holiday party as a family activity at La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes. Garden dining rooms are converted into craft activity rooms with lots of natural light from the large windows facing the garden.
Wreath Making
Festive Holiday Decor surrounding the fireplace in the grand ballroom at La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes. There is red beaded garland hanging from the golden chandelier, and a bell tied to the center. There are large red sleigh bells hung from the ceiling and on the floor behind the presents under the traditional Christmas tree decorated with red ribbon, lights, and red and gold ornaments. Red and gold ornaments are hung on strings of differing lengths from the fireplace mantle. There are two wooden reindeer pulling a small red and black sleigh in front of the fireplace.
Festive Fireplace Decor
Festive Winter Wonderland Holiday Decor in the Garden Dining Room at La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes during the A Very La Venta Holiday lunch event. The frosted white and blue Christmas tree is surrounded by smaller frosted Christmas trees, a polar bear, and white garland. Off to the right in the background, you can see a rose gold photo curtain backdrop from the photobooth.
Winter Wonderland Decor
Candy Cane Holiday Decor on the Christmas Tree at La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes during the A Very La Venta Holiday lunch event. The Christmas tree is surrounded by wrapped presents in red, white, and silver wrapping paper tied with a bow. The Christmas tree is decorated with red and white striped ribbon, large red and white swirl mint candies, warm glowing lights, and red and white ornaments.
Candy Cane Decor
Sign for Outdoor Hot Chocolate Beverage Station with Extra Marshmallows at La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes with two metal caraffes on a black linen tablecloth next to clear hot mugs, all in natural sunlight outside
Hot Cocoa Station
Hot Chocolate in a Glass Hot Cup with Whipped Cream and Marshmallows at the Beverage Station at La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes with a red poinsettia on the bar and a copper container with candy canes, all in natural sunlight outside
Hot Cocoa Station

Have a venue, and need a full-service food + beverage caterer?

We are available to cater, with the capacity to cook and serve up to 10 events per day! In addition to catering a wide variety of culinary cuisine types via all food service styles, Made by Meg Cateringโ€™s Type 83 liquor license allows us to service wherever youโ€™re hosting your holiday gathering, whether thatโ€™s a designated event venue, state park, office space, or a private residence. 

Contact us for a catering quote! We offer:

  • Thanksgiving Catering & Friendsgiving Catering, available for pickup on Wednesday, November 27th, in Torrance between 8am and 12pm
  • Holiday Cocktail Party Catering, including tray passed hors dโ€™oeuvres & grazing stations
  • Formal Holiday Dinners, with a variety of multi course offerings to choose from
  • Christmas Party Catering, Hanukkah Party Catering, & Kwanza Celebration Catering
  • Holiday Brunches & Holiday Buffets 
Mini Sweet Potato Casseroles from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Mini Sweet Potato Casseroles
Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Aioli from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Aioli
Golden Herb Butter Turkey from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Golden Herb Butter Turkey
Herb Crusted Salmon from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Herb Crusted Salmon
Roast Beef from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Roast Beef
Oh Cheesy Tree from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Oh Cheesy Tree
Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites
Cranberry Flatbread from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Cranberry Flatbread
Cranberry Sauce and Golden Herb Butter Turkey from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Cranberry Sauce
Charcuterie Spread from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu on display at La Venta Inn
Charcuterie
Charcuterie Wreath from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Charcuterie Wreath
Charcuterie Spread from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Charcuterie
Mini Caramel Apple Tartlets Dessert from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Mini Caramel Apple Tartlets
Brie & White Chocolate Pillows from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu in front of cranberries and a half of a pomegranate
Brie & White Chocolate Pillows
Chocolate Lava Cake topped with cranberries from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu
Chocolate Lava Cake

Not sure where to host, and youโ€™re looking for more Southern California venue options? 

Weโ€™re happy to help you find your perfect venue fit for your holiday party.

  • Event Venues: Check out our list of Preferred Event Venues across Los Angeles County and Orange County and let us know if youโ€™d like us to connect you to help with quotes and introductions to the booking team! 
  • In-The-Park Catering: Enjoy the beautiful weather of Southern California! Our LA Rec and Park Beverage Contract allows us to cater at all Los Angeles County recreation and park indoor & outdoor venues. If youโ€™re looking for a park venue, check out the LA Rec & Park Special Event Locations list!
  • Office Catering: We have a wide variety of capabilities to cater your office holiday party, from in-office holiday lunches to off-site staff dinners to client meetings to corporate holiday events.
  • Home Catering: We also are licensed & insured to come and cater in your home! During the booking process, please let us know if you have a kitchen we can use for finishing touches, or if all items need to be completed offsite in advance of our arrival. 
Courtyard buffet station with multiple silver chafing serving dishes with warmers on a table with white tablecloths at La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes
Courtyard Buffet Stations
Two male bartenders in black button up shirts and black ties ready to make a Pomegranate Mimosa or Hot Toddy cocktail at the outdoor bar at A Very La Venta Holiday lunch event at La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes.
Outdoor Beverage Stations
Female bartender with her hair in a ponytail and a festive red and white headband pours Grey Whale Gin into a silver measuring container to make a cocktail at the bar at A Very La Venta Holiday lunch event at La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes.
Outdoor Beverage Stations
Holiday Cheese & Charcuterie Spread from the Made by Meg Catering Holiday Menu on display at La Venta Inn
Holiday Charcuterie Board

Reach out today for help with any of the above!

At MBM Hospitality, we love the holidays, and our full-service team cannot wait to put together your perfect holiday event.

Contact Made by Meg for a Catering Quote

Contact La Venta for a Venue Quote

Preferred Event Venues

Contact Tipsy Pear for a Bar Service Quote

LA Rec & Park Special Event Locations

Festive Red Cocktail with a Dehydrated Lime Wheel on a blue Gray Whale Gin cocktail mat on the bar at La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes.

Cheers to a festive holiday season!

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Which Wedding Food Service Style is Right For You?

How do I know which menu and service style is the best fit for my wedding?

One of the most important aspects of your wedding day is the catering services you offer your guests and the style in which it is served. At Made by Meg Catering, we aim to create an experience you and your wedding guests will never forget with memorable and delicious food they will enjoy on your big day, and that all begins with deciding which wedding food service style is right for you, your significant other, and your overall event vision. Whether you’re interested in a formal sit-down plated dinner, a relaxed cocktail-style reception, or themed grazing stations, our team is here to help you find the perfect option to match your vision and needs.

The catering service staff with Made by Meg Catering wants your wedding to be perfect, which is why we ask the intake questions regarding your available wedding details, guest count, and timeline, and are always attentive to your specific wants and needs. Whether you have guests with strict allergies or dietary restrictions to the knowledge that the mother-of-the-bride will want extra dressing for her salad course, our goal is to ensure your wedding catering experience goes as smoothly as possible by taking care of all the little culinary details that make up your day, taking the stress off and allowing you to live in the moment. By having a team that cares deeply about ensuring your vision for your wedding day comes to life in the most spectacular ways with delicious wedding food, you can focus on enjoying yourself and creating lifelong memories on your big day. Whether you want a formal sit-down plated dinner or a more relaxed cocktail-style reception, we can design a custom wedding menu for what you envision for your perfect wedding celebration.

Wedding Reception Food Service Style Options

When selecting a catering style, youโ€™ll want to look for an exceptional custom menu design, kind and professional staff, and plenty of service styles that will accommodate any kind of reception you could imagine hosting. With our full-service catering from Made by Meg, we offer several different formats for your wedding reception, including Plated Sit-Down Dinners, Passed Hors dโ€™oeuvres and Cocktail Hour, Live Action Cooking Stations, Grazing Stations, Buffets, Family-Style, and Dessert Tables.

Here is a closer look at the various types of wedding food service style options:

Classic 3-Course Plated Sit-Down

Classic 3-Course Plated Sit-Down: The full-service multi-course meal is the most traditional and formal option since each wedding guest is served an individual plated meal to their designated seat. This option offers guests three seated courses: bread service, a salad or appetizer, and the main entrรฉe, typically accompanied by dessert, and sometimes including a fourth course such as intermezzo or amuse bouche. Typically guests are given a choice of two main entrees, which they will select beforehand when responding to your wedding invitation RSVP card. Another option is to serve each guest with two proteins such as meat and fish on one plate, often called a โ€œduetโ€ plate. 

Guests with dietary restrictions are noted and individually accommodated based on their seat placement, and this information is provided by the hosts or planner to the caterer in advance along with your final guest count. Thereโ€™s always a chance that you will have a guest-of-a-guest who might be gluten free, and itโ€™s important to make sure that everyone is able to find something to eat. 

Seated Family-Style

Seated Family-Style: If youโ€™re looking for a seated meal with a more communal and casual feel, any of the Made by Meg main course selections and sides can be formatted for family-style service. This option is somewhat similar to a sit-down dinner, except less formal and, while guests may be assigned to a specific table, the seat/table assignments are less crucial. 

For the family-style reception, the servers bring large platters of food and serving utensils to tables to share, where they are then passed around by the guests, with each taking the quantity theyโ€™d like for their own dish. This way, your guests can fill their own plate with their desired portion size of what interests them most while giving you that close, intimate, family-dinner feel.

Buffet

Buffet Style: A buffet is presented to guests with clearly labeled serving platters of food, including both mains and sides, set up on long tables in an area either nearby or adjacent to the dining tables. Guests are excused from their seats one-table-at-a-time to go down the buffet line and build their meal, selecting the items that they would like to enjoy that night. 

For the various food stations set up for the buffet, you can either have it where guests walk along and serve themselves, or another option is to have waiters or waitresses stationed behind each buffet table, scooping and serving each item onto the guestโ€™s dish. Similar to family style, in that both options allow for guests to select their food items and corresponding portion sizes, a buffet is a great option for a more casual style of reception. All Made by Meg course selections can be presented as a buffet, offering you a more social mealtime option for every guest count. 

Cocktail-Style Hors D’oeuvres

Cocktail-Style Hors D’oeuvres: A cocktail-style reception offers hors dโ€™oeuvres and other various small bites for a specific duration of your evening, either before dinner at cocktail hour or served all-night at a cocktail-style reception instead of a sit-down dinner. The hors dโ€™oeuvres sizes are typically a one-or-two-bite portion and can be various combinations of hot and cold menu items. These bites can be tray passed around via servers or set up at stations for guests to help themselves at their leisure. This is a great option for couples who want a more laid back and casual feel with more focus on mingling, dancing, and enjoying a few drinks.

Typically, 3 different types of appetizers are the minimum for cocktail hour, and you canโ€™t get away with less without slight disappointment, with most couples opting for 5 of their favorites. The perfect bite size and packed with flavor, a few of our most popular hors dโ€™oeuvres are Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice, Chile Cumin Filet Mignon with Mango Salsa, Seared Ahi Tuna Poke Guacamole Tacos, Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower, Saag Paneer Pizzettas, Mac Nโ€™ Cheese Poppers, Bacon Bourbon BBQ Chicken Kebabs, Goat Cheese Tarts, and the LA Dog with Shishito Relish. 

Grazing Stations for Cocktail Receptions

Grazing Stations for Cocktail Receptions: As an alternative to tray-passed apps, a grazing station allows your guests to snack for either a designated amount of time or all night long, available to groups of 25 guests or greater. Choose from a variety of small bites or an already curated station, and Chef Megโ€™s team will make sure everything looks picture-perfect while capturing your attendees hearts and taste buds. Five of our most popular Grazing Stations for Cocktail Hour include our Crostini Station, Tuscan Station, Tapas Bar, Little Saigon Station, and 3 Hand Selected Cheese & Charcuterie.

Prepared Dinner Stations

Prepared Dinner Stations: A station-style reception offers food spread out among different stations near your dining areas throughout your event space. Dinner stations are completely customizable, and some couples choose a specific ethnic cuisine, while others may mix-and-match their favorite International dishes. Before your event, youโ€™ll choose the dish style and theme, and our team will handle perfecting the presentation for your event. With a variety of combinations, your guests can select their desired ingredients to build their perfect meal. 

Your different stations displays are maintained by our staff throughout the designated service times for your event, giving you the opportunity to present a more creative and diverse menu. There are a variety of popular prepared stations to choose from for Lunch Receptions and Dinner Receptions, with five of our most popular including the Gourmet Taco Bar, Premium Sushi Station, California Coastal Poke Station, Savory Waffle Station, and Gourmet Slider Bar paired with a French Fry Station. For Brunch Receptions, popular stations are the chef attended Belgian Waffle Bar, Parisian Crepe Bar, and Farm Fresh Omelet Bar.

Live Action Cooking Stations

Live Action Cooking Stations: With the Live Action Cooking Stations, we love seeing guests filming the chefs flipping the skewers on the grill or tossing their selected pasta with their favorite sauce combo in a skillet, then panning off to the finished product. One of our most popular Live Action Cooking Stations is the Tuscan Pasta Station, where guests get to choose their own pasta (raviolo, penne, or cheese tortellini), sauce (brown butter sage, garlic alfredo, spicy marinara), and topping (chili flakes, shaved parm, fresh basil) combinations and watch their pasta be cooked right in front of their eyes. Efficiency is key, with the pastas noodles and tortellini constantly being prepared by our chefs so that theyโ€™re readily available for guests, and the sauces are held warm in large vats and then added directly to the personal skillet. Watching the Chef prepare globally inspired dishes adds an exciting element to your cuisine offerings at wedding reception, adding both buzz and deliciousness to your menu. โ€œGuests love that they can watch the Chef make their food,โ€

The 7 Most Popular Wedding Menu Service Style Options: 

  1. Classic 3-Course Plated Sit-Down
  2. Seated Family-Style
  3. Buffet
  4. Cocktail-Style Hors D’oeuvres
  5. Grazing Stations for Cocktail Receptions
  6. Prepared Dinner Stations
  7. Live Action Cooking Stations 

Don’t Forget About Dessert!

Don’t Forget About Dessert! No event is complete without a sweet treat. Whether you opt for a traditional cake-based dessert option or have a preference for other sweet treats, anything goes, so long as you donโ€™t forget this part of your course flow! Weโ€™ve enjoyed seeing new and non-traditional requests for a couple’s favorite dessert, and recently weโ€™ve catered a variety of sweet dessert stations focused on churros with a trio of dipping sauces, customizable ice cream cookie sandwich bars, beignets, dessert shooters, ice cream, milk topped with cookies, and sโ€™mores stations. Recent trends show that couples are choosing delicious, creative options, and our team at Made by Meg Catering can provide the wedding dessert options that fit within your personal preferences, whether thatโ€™s something we make in-house or a referral to a local traditional cake baker.

Let Us Help You Make Your Wedding Day Perfect

Our clients arenโ€™t just business relationships, we care deeply and truly become involved in every part of your big day to make sure that itโ€™s everything you have ever dreamed of. From detailed wedding catering consultations and in-person tastings to cross referencing your notes to ensure your day-of menu exactly reflects your vision, to our meticulous quality checks before the food is served to your guests, we take all the tried & true steps to exceed your wedding-day food expectations. One of our top priorities as a premier Southern California wedding catering service is to ensure your wedding day is everything you have ever wanted with food that you and your guests will crave and remember fondly for many years down the road.

We are truly here to help you in any way and we go above and beyond to ensure that your day is stress free with food that surpasses your standards. We look forward to potentially sharing one of the most important days of your and your partnerโ€™s lives by offering our delicious wedding menus and service.

Looking for Your Wedding Caterer?

Ready to find the perfect catering for your Southern California wedding? Contact us today to set up a consultation to discuss how we can help bring your dream wedding menu to life. As your premier Los Angeles catering service for weddings, we look forward to helping make your wedding day absolutely perfect and delicious! For examples, be sure to check our press and media page for photos of events and weddings we have catered!

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Youโ€™re Engaged! Whatโ€™s Next For Catering Your Wedding

One of the most exciting and fun parts of wedding planning is thinking about your favorite foods and crafting the perfect menu with your wedding caterer. Your wedding day should be perfect, which means the local caterer you select to do the catering for your wedding must have top-notch service and capabilities to execute an exquisite menu. The professionals at Made by Meg Catering want to create an incredible dining experience on your wedding day that both you and your guests will never forget. Now that you are happily engaged, here is whatโ€™s next for catering your wedding.

The perfect Mediterranean Party Platter for a cocktail hour with feta cheese, Dolmas, olives, pita bread, and bell pepper on a wooden board

First, Choose a Theme

First Up, Choose Your Overall Wedding Theme & Style

Before you can truly hand-select your menu items for your wedding day, you need to decide on a theme for your wedding so that your wedding food matches the overall feel. If you are going for a more casual wedding, you may want to take advantage of the plenty of food stations we offer so guests can grab and go and continue to dance the night away. If you want a formal sit-down dinner for a more upscale theme, such as a formal or black-tie wedding, you can choose a menu that works well with a multi-course plated style and can offer larger portions. Once you know what type of wedding you and your partner want, the decisions on menu items will be much easier, and, of course, we will be there to help you every single step of the way.

Made by Meg Catering offers the following types of wedding catering menus and services:

  • Server Passed Hors dโ€™oeuvres for Cocktail Hour
  • Plated Sit-Down Multi-Course Dinners 
  • Seated Family-Style
  • Buffet Tables 
  • Grazing Stations for Cocktail Receptions
  • Prepared Dinner Stations
  • Live Action Cooking Stations 
  • Dessert Tables

If thereโ€™s a service style youโ€™re looking for that isnโ€™t on the list above, please let us know and weโ€™ll do our best to see if we can accommodate.

Tasting room set for two with two wine bottles on the table at the MBM Hospitality offices in Torrance

Second, Taste the Food!

Second, Taste the Food from Your Caterer – Make Sure You Love Every Bite!

Once you know which type of wedding catering you want for your big day, the real fun part begins. Your designated representative from Made by Megโ€™s team of experienced catering professionals will set up a special private tasting session for you and your fiancรฉ/fiancรฉe to taste-test the variety of different menu items you are considering for your special day. We will be there in person to answer any questions you have on the presentation, ingredients, flavor profiles, and expected day-of setup. Tastings are held at our Torrance headquarters during business hours Tuesday to Thursday, typically one hour in duration and priced for 2 guests, with a charge of $100 for each additional guest. 

This is the time to ensure you are completely in love with the menu options for your special day. Taste everything and let us know of any major or minor adjustments so that we can create the most ideal menu for your special day.  

Here are a few of our favorite main course entrรฉes from the Made by Meg Catering menu:

  • Seafood: Grilled Salmon with Meyer Lemon and Basil Pesto
  • Beef: Fig and Carneros Petit Syrah Braised Short Ribs
  • Poultry: Pinot Gris Braised Chicken Thighs with Roasted Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes, Burrata Cheese, Balsamic Creme, and Fresh Basil
  • Vegetarian: Mediterranean Cauliflower Steak with a Roja Chimichurri, Zucchini, Cherry Tomatoes, and Lemon Citrus Quinoa
Wedding Ceremony at La Venta Inn with Bride Groom and Guests

Third, Decide on the Number Guests

Third, Decide on the Number Guests You’d Like to Have at Your Wedding

One of the most critical parts of choosing the wedding catering menu is knowing how many people you will need to serve. When sharing numbers with your caterer, start with an estimate based on the number of invites sent and responses received thus far, and be prepared with a hard cut-off closer to your event so that we can ensure that perfect amount of food. Your final guest count is due two weeks before your wedding date to ensure our team can order the accurate number of ingredients and staff accordingly. By communicating your guest count with your caterer, we can ensure weโ€™re prepared with the correct quantities and that the palates of everyone attending your wedding are fully satisfied. 

Some couples choose to stagger their invites into tiers, with their A list receiving the first round on invitations with RSVP cards. The A list includes anyone who you cannot imagine having your wedding without, and typically consists of your closest family, friends, and wedding parties. After the majority of your A listโ€™s responses are received, couples repeat with a separate B-list of the people who you would really love to have there if possible, and potentially even a C-list of backups who you would like to share your day with if space allows.

The RSVP cards often include a space for recipients to mark their main entrรฉe selection if youโ€™re moving forward with the Plated Sit-Down Multi-Course Dinner service style (unless youโ€™re planning on serving duos with this service style, where each guests receives two types of protein on the same plate), along with any dietary restrictions or allergies that we as your caterer will accommodate for.

Table View Before Wedding Reception with Greenery and Chandeliers

Full Service – We Can Help With It All!

Full-Service Catering Means We Can Help You With It All!

Made By Meg is a full-service wedding caterer, meaning we donโ€™t just prepare and serve the food. We are deeply involved and assist in many other ways on your big day. We set up the tables, chairs, and all place settings, we help coordinate rentals, provide the wait staff and bartenders, serve the food in a timely manner, clean up all of the dining areas and kitchens, pack up all leftovers, and we get rid of all of the garbage so that the venue is as spotless as when we arrived.

When you hire Made By Meg as your wedding caterer, you are not only entering a business relationship, but a true partnership. Weโ€™re involved in every part of your wedding day, from the tastings to sticking to the timeline. We want all of your wedding dreams to come true. 

Premier LA Wedding Caterer + Premier OC Wedding Caterer

Voted South Bayโ€™s Favorite Caterer by The Beach Reporter and Daily Breeze, we do everything we can to make sure weโ€™re also YOUR new personal favorite. We strive to make your wedding cuisine and service so memorable that you want us to return to cater your anniversaries, showers, and birthdays for years to come. 

Made By Meg provides exceptional catering services for weddings throughout Los Angeles and Orange County, including Malibu, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Palos Verdes, Long Beach, DTLA, Manhattan Beach, and more. Our wedding catering services include an exciting menu design, knowledgeable staff, and varying styles that will accommodate any type of wedding reception.

Mini Chicken and Waffle Sandwiches on a White Plate being passed by a server wearing gloves at cocktail hour reception

Your SoCal Wedding Catering Partner!

We Are Here To Help As Your Southern California Wedding Catering Partner

Contact Made By Meg Catering today to set up a consultation to discuss your perfect wedding menu. As your premier Los Angeles Wedding Caterer, we canโ€™t wait to help make your special day both perfect and tasty. Check out our press and media page for additional information on weddings and events we have catered, and feel free to give us a call at (310) 376-8600 with any questions you may have. We are excited to be a part of your wedding day!

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Real Weddings Feature: Sabrina + Ralph

Sabrina and Ralph celebrated their love with a serene, whimsical, classic elegance inspired wedding on Saturday, May 18th, 2024, featuring smiles, laughter, spring florals, and use of both indoor and outdoor venue spaces. Hosting their wedding at the venue La Venta Inn was extra special because this is also where they did their engagement photoshoot, with a few photos highlighted in our Instagram roundup.

Sabrina + Ralphโ€™s Testimonial: โ€œIt was a day in heaven, I really appreciate everything you and the team did for us to make it perfect!โ€

Style: Matching I Do Shoes 

Where class meets comfort, we loved the couple’s choice of matching white Converse-style sneakers with gold rings and Mr. & Mrs. I Do cursive text in black ink. These personalized elements not only make dancing the night away that much easier, but itโ€™s a piece from your wedding that you know you can reuse after your big day to bring back memories of you on the dance floor with your new spouse, just like Ralph and Sabrina. 

Matching I Do White Shoes Worn by Bride and Groom at La Venta Inn Wedding

First Look Feels 

No matter how many weddings we are a part of, the love that we feel when we get the opportunity to see photos of the looks on couples faces for the private first look makes our hearts melt. The initial reactions of happy tears, giant smiles, and genuine laughter show the pure love that they have for each other, and we are here for it! Their heartwarming first look took place on the West Garden Walkway, followed by photos on the connected grass lawn and keyhole lookout. 

Groom Teary Eyed During First Look with Bride at La Venta Inn
Couple Smiles and Embraces After First Look Before Wedding Ceremony at La Venta Inn
Couples Kiss at the Keyhole Lookout After First Look
Couple Looks Over At Camera Surrounded by Greenery from Keyhole Lookout

Ring Security Detail 

We all know the importance of wedding rings for both partners, which is why hiring good security detail with top clearance is crucial for guarding these valuable pieces of jewelry before they make it securely on both of your ring fingers. Ring Security serves as the modern Ring Bearer 2.0, tasked with the important job of safeguarding the wedding rings, while doubling as a clever strategy to encourage young ones to remain dressed in formal attire, despite a suit and tie likely being less familiar and comfortable than their usual clothes. Weโ€™ve noticed an increase in Ring Security at weddings at La Venta Inn in 2024, with typically one to two youthful security guards entrusted with the precious rings, adding a charming element of delight to your overall guests’ experience. As you can see here, three-year-olds with a strong clearance do a great job with this responsibility.

Ring Security serves as the modern Ring Bearer 2.0 Holding Black Case with Wedding Rings
Ring Security serves as the modern Ring Bearer Walks Down Aisle Holding Black Case with Wedding Rings
Groom Gives Ring Security Detail a Celebratory High Five for Doing a Good Job Protecting the Rings

Shining Bright Like A Diamond:
The Best Beverage Menu (Non-Alcoholic Station 4:50pm, Cocktail Hour 5:50pm)

  • Signature Cocktail: Mojito – Rum, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, Mint, Soda Water 
  • Diamond Bar Alcohol, Beer, Wine, Mixers, and Garnishes
  • Champagne Tray Pass as guests entered (4:50pm) + Pour Service with Toasts (7:25pm) 
  • Pre-Ceremony Infused Waters included Lavender Lemon and Cucumber Mint
  • Iced Teas – Hibiscus Lemon with Lemon Wheels
  • La Venta Coffee and Hot Tea Station, including both Regular & Decaf Brewed Coffee
Water Station Before Ceremony at La Venta Inn
Bride Holding Glass of Champagne
Signage for Mojito Signature Cocktail at Bar

Ceremony Smiles

We love when we see couples and their guests thoroughly enjoying their ceremony, with giant smiles and bouts of laughter sprinkled into romantic, heartfelt readings and vows. Officiant Rev. Dr. Jules S. Bagneris III did a fantastic job with Sabrina and Ralphโ€™s wedding service on La Ventaโ€™s ceremony lawn overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Los Angeles coastline. Words of Wisdom were shared from Fred Moyer before an exchange of vows and rings, before the saying I Do with dazzling views and their first kiss as a married couple. At the end of the ceremony, the recessional song โ€œMarry Youโ€ by Bruno Mars played after the pronouncement as the newlyweds walked back up the aisle. 

Kiss at the end of the La Venta Inn Wedding Ceremony for Sabrina and Ralph Hill
Guests Seated and Smiling During La Venta Inn Wedding Ceremony for Sabrina and Ralph Hill
Guests Seated at La Venta Inn Wedding Ceremony for Sabrina and Ralph Hill
La Venta Inn Wedding Ceremony for Sabrina and Ralph Hill

Elegant Blush Garden Party Florals  

The ambiance was pastel garden romantic European, with tables perfectly set with blush pink, white, and light peach florals. Along with candle gifts in pink bags, the setting was very demure and calming. The florals were done by local florist Del Sol Flowers and included a mixture of gorgeous pink Peonies along with garden local Coffee Dahlias and pale pink Hydrangeas. The centerpieces were in beautiful 9-inch fish bowls in a European pave design. The bridal bouquet was softly picked with gorgeous imported Peonies, Bell of Bethlehem, off-white Scabiosas, Freida, and beautiful off-white cream Vendela roses.

Sabrina and Ralph Hill after La Venta Inn Wedding Ceremony
La Venta Inn Wedding Table 2 Set With Romantic Florals
La Venta Inn Wedding Bridesmaids Holding Bouquets
La Venta Inn Brides Wedding Bouquet Close Up
La Venta Inn Wedding Cake Florals
La Venta Inn Wedding Table Setting With Blush Accents and Candles in Pink Bags
La Venta Inn Wedding Sweetheart Table With Romantic Florals

Premium Surf & Turf Catering Menu

Tray passed hors d’oeuvres served to guests during cocktail hour (5:50pm-6:50pm)

  • Spicy Tuna with Sweet Miso Sauce on Crispy Rice
  • Dry Rub Crust Lamb Lollipops
  • Mini Crab Cakes with Garlic Basil Aioli

Grazing Station during cocktail hour (5:50pm-6:50pm)

  • Domestic Cheese Display with 3 Hand-Selected American Cheeses (Manchego, Cheddar, and St. Andre for Sabrina and Ralphโ€™s wedding), Whole Grain Crackers, Fresh Organic Grapes, Dried Fruit, and House Roasted Nuts.

Tables Pre-Set with Starter Course (6:45pm) 

  • Warm Artisan Ciabatta & Kalamata Olive Rolls served with Maldon Salted Honey Butter & Herb Oil Mixture 
  • Big Sur Date Salad with Dates, Roasted Rosemary Cashews, Roasted Parsnips, Burrata, Baby Kale with a Citrus Vinaigrette
  • Kidโ€™s Menu: Crispy chicken strips with fresh fruit, carrots, and fries served with ranch and ketchup

Main Course Service (7:30pm)

  • Seafood Entrรฉe: Roasted Salmon with Fresh Cilantro Pesto
  • Beef Entrรฉe: Flank Steak with Chimichurri & Rainbow Radish 
  • Vegan Entrรฉe: Stuffed Portobello Mushroom with Spinach, Quinoa, Pine Nuts, & Chimichurri

Sides to Accompany Main Course Proteins (7:30pm)

  • Spicy Roasted Seasonal Vegetables, including Broccolini, Cauliflower, Brussel Sprouts
  • Roasted Rosemary & Garlic Fingerling Potatoes
Tables Pre-Set with Starter Course and Big Sur Date Salad
Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice
Tables Pre-Set with Starter Course including Salads and Kids Menu of Chicken Strips

The Reception in the Garden Rooms

Cheers to the happy couple! From the coupleโ€™s grand entrance to heartfelt speeches during dinner to the cutting of their multi-tiered red velvet cake from local baker Cara Mia Baking Co, Sabrina and Ralph kicked off married life surrounded by love. The cake was a 5-tier (the three top tiers were real cake, the bottom two tiers faux), all Red Velvet, traditional pastry with cream cheese filling and Swiss buttercream frosting. They also had two additional Red Velvet cakes to serve their guests- one was vegan, the other traditional.

Wedding Cake Cutting Red Velvet Cake By Cara Mia Baking
Guests Seated at Round Tables in Garden Dining Room at La Venta Inn at Night
Close Up of Mother of the Groom Speech Next to Sweetheart Table at La Venta Inn Wedding
Cheers After Wedding Cake Cutting Red Velvet Cake By Cara Mia Baking
Mother of the Groom Speech Next to Sweetheart Table at La Venta Inn Wedding
Guests Seated at Round Tables in Garden Dining Room at La Venta Inn at Night During Grooms Speech
Best Mans Speech in Garden Dining Room at Night

Dance Party in the Ballroom

From the Hills first dance to โ€œAt Lastโ€ by Etta James to the competitive bouquet toss to tearing up the dance floor with family and friends, the party was full of joy, with music and tech by Vox DJs. The dancing took place on the hardwood floors of the ballroom dance hall below the two Chandeliers and in front of the fireplace decorated with florals. The couple had selected songs that were important to them, and the DJ structured the night around these while helping to select other songs to fill the gaps. They had a variety of fun items from Vox to personalize the space, including 8 Up Lights for the Ballroom, Basic Dance Lights, Cold Floor Sparklers, and a CLIQ Social Booth.

Couples First Dance to Song At Last by Etta James
La Venta Inn Wedding Ballroom with Two Chandeliers and Hardwood Flooring and a Fireplace
First Dance to Song At Last by Etta James with Bride and Groom
Group Photo During Wedding Reception at La Venta Inn
Wedding Grand Exit for Bride and Groom with Bubbles Being Blown By Guests
Mother Song Dance to A Mothers Love by artist Major in the ballroom at La Venta Inn
Group Photo During Wedding Reception at La Venta Inn
Group Photo During Wedding Reception at La Venta Inn
Mother Song Dance to A Mothers Love by artist Major in the ballroom at La Venta Inn
Bride Tosses Bouquet to Group of Single Ladies behind her in the ballroom at La Venta Inn with high ceilings
Bouquet Toss Group Attempt
Group Dancing with Cocktails and Beers at La Venta Inn Wedding
Bouquet Toss Winner at La Venta Inn Wedding
Wedding Bar with Guests Holding Cocktails Next to Garnishes
Couple Dancing with Baby at Wedding
Two Girls Dancing with Cocktails at La Venta Inn Wedding Reception in front of DJ Booth
Groom Dancing With Purple Lights at La Venta Inn Wedding
Two Children Dancing and Having Fun at La Venta Inn Wedding

More Fun Details 

From mirrored signage to both wedding parties getting ready on property in the separate tucked away Hideaway Suite and Oceanview Cottage, every detail of The Hills wedding was thoughtful, personal, and full of love.

Mirrored Seating Chart Signage at the Welcome Table at La Venta Inn
Mirrored Wedding Signage at the entrance at La Venta Inn
Mirrored Signage at the Bar at La Venta Inn
Welcome Table at La Venta Inn with Guest Book and Gift Box
Flower Girls Posing Together With Their Flower Baskets
Wedding Party Posing With Groom at the Hideaway Suite After Getting Ready Before The Wedding Ceremony Dressed in Black Suits
Bridesmaids posing with the bride after getting ready and before the wedding ceremony begins in front of a tree at La Venta Inn
Mirrored Wedding Signage at the entrance at La Venta Inn
Bride and Mother of the Bride at La Venta Inn in front of Oceanview Cottage
Wedding Party walking with Groom on Grass Lawn Pre-Ceremony
Garden View at Wedding Venue La Venta Inn in Palos Verdes
Wedding Rings and Wedding Band on top of Wedding Invite
Outside View of Wedding Sweetheart Table Through the Glass at La Venta Inn
Wedding Rings and Wedding Band on top of Wedding Invite
Wedding Parties on Ceremony Lawn for Group Photo S

The Hills Wedding Vendor Team:

Contact the Venue La Venta Inn

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Trend Report: Top Food Trends at Fall Events in Los Angeles 2025

Food trends in the hospitality industry are ever evolving, reflecting diverse preferences from high-end restaurants to local pop-ups, from corporate catering to wedding catering and beyond. Whether thatโ€™s a vegetable having its red-carpet moment (brussels sprouts, kale, cauliflower – weโ€™re looking at you) to vibrant vegan cruditรฉs platters with a variety of brightly colored hummus dip offerings to prosciutto wrapping (wrapped scallops, wrapped dates, wrapped baguettes, prosciutto & melon) to late-night snack service, the list of food trends weโ€™ve seen and put on menus goes on and on. If you consider yourself a foodie and youโ€™re planning an event and want the best catering in Los Angeles, this is a great list to pull inspiration from.

The biggest culinary trends weโ€™ve noticed for 2025 include:

Wild Mushrooms, Parmesan & Pistachio Pizettas, Gluten Free Passed Appetizer on a white plate with brown paper
Herb Butter Filet Mignon with Roasted Wild Mushroom Shallot Whiskey Sauce with fresh rosemary springs on a white plate
Bourbon Glazed Marinated Short Ribs Stuffed Cremini Mushrooms in a box with brown butcher paper as a passed appetizer at an event

Trend #1 – Mushrooms Arenโ€™t Just for Vegetarians/Vegans ๐Ÿ„

Youโ€™ve probably noticed certain vegetables having a moment in the spotlight, and at this time the fungi category has entered the arena. Mushrooms are taking over menus, from appetizers to entrรฉes to beverages, and they arenโ€™t just for the vegans and vegetarians. From the Made by Meg Catering menu, even meat-lovers have been mushroom-centric with their menu selections, from starting with hors dโ€™oeuvres such as the Bourbon Glazed Marinated Short Ribs Stuffed Cremini Mushrooms to entrees ranging such as Herb Butter Filet Mignon with Roasted Wild Mushroom Shallot Whiskey Sauce.

A few mushroom dishes on our menu most regularly selected for wedding food and catered meals in Los Angeles include:

  • Vegetarian Hors d’oeuvre: Grilled Parmesan Polenta Squares with Wild Mushroom Ragu & Goat Cheese (Gluten Free)
  • Entree From the Butcher: Hand Cut Filet Mignon with Balsamic Roasted Wild Mushrooms 
  • Vegetarian Side: Brown & Wild Rice Pilaf with Porcini Mushrooms & Toasted Pecans (Gluten Free) 
  • Vegetarian Side: Roasted Wild Mushrooms Tossed with Garlic & Fresh Herb Butter (Gluten Free)  

The growing interest in foraging and wild foods has contributed to their popularity, and weโ€™ve seen more planners requesting mushroom-centric dishes. Foodie guests are enjoying their delicate and mysterious savory umami flavor, along with a meaty texture.

Almond milk with a straw and topped with chocolate chip cookies
Churro wall with the text And They Lived Happily Ever After at a Disney themed wedding
Churro station at a formal event with a variety of sauces

Trend #2 – Less Cake, More Dessert Stations ๐Ÿช

Weโ€™ve noticed the last bite before kicking off happily ever after is changing, and wedding desserts are more creative and tempting than ever. Lots of couples are going with a small cake for cake-cutting photos only, with some doing away with the traditional cake altogether. With Made by Meg Catering, weโ€™ve loved getting new and non-traditional requests for a couple’s favorite dessert, and recently weโ€™ve catered a variety of sweet dessert stations including churros with a trio of dipping sauces, beignets, dessert shooters, ice cream, milk topped with cookies, and sโ€™mores stations.

One standout trend is the Gourmet Ice Cream Sandwich Bar, which lets guests customize their treats. Dessert carts are making their own grand entrance, and we offer attendees a customizable selection of three ice creams and three cookies, plus various toppings for a nostalgic and interactive experience. Engaged couples and corporate event planners choose their three favorite ice cream flavors and cookies in advance of the event, and attendees have fun combining two different cookies and their favorite of the available ice creams. Cookie choices range from Meg’s Famous Chocolate Chip to Gluten Free Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter to White Chocolate Chip Macadamia Nut, and more! For the ice cream flavors, classics include Chocolate, Vanilla Bean, Strawberry, Mint Chip, Cookies & Cream, and Butter Pecan. Dessert stations where guests can create their own treats are rapidly increasing in popularity, and itโ€™s easy to taste why! This trend not only adds fun to the event but also caters to diverse tastes, making it a hit at weddings and corporate events alike.

Individual Mini Cheese Board with red grapes, fresh rosemary, nuts, crackers, andcheese
Individual Mini Cheese Board with dried fruit, a variety of cheeses, and fresh rosemary placed on a table among water cups, silverware, plates, and napkins

Trend #3 – Individual Mini Cheese Boards ๐Ÿง€

Grazing tables arenโ€™t going anywhere (our 3 Hand Selected Cheese & Charcuterie Board is one of our most popular cocktail hour grazing stations) but weโ€™ve noticed how much guests love personalized elements at all events, from corporate events to weddings, especially when cheese is involved. Weโ€™ve seen an increase in hosts bringing in individual miniature cheese boards for the perfect personal touch, as seen on Instagram. With Made by Meg Catering, we include crowd-favorites on both larger charcuterie grazing tables and our miniature cheese boards, such as dried fruits and Manchego sheep cheese, and event planners and couples can select if they have any favorite cheeses that theyโ€™ve enjoyed sharing together and want to have on their special day. Having an easily accessible quick snack is a great idea for guests who enjoy grazing, especially to have prepared and laid out immediately following a corporate training or wedding ceremony, whether thatโ€™s during a cocktail hour or pre-placed on table settings as the first course of the dinner reception.

  • Rentals: One option is to rent blank wooden boards for a single use to be picked up by staff before dinner service. 
  • Favors: Another is to have the wood cheese board itself be the corporate gift or wedding favor as a gift to the guests, with the logo, coupleโ€™s names, initials, and/or date etched into the wood as a practical keepsake. 
  • Custom Seating Chart: These can also be used as a practical personalized gift to use as the seating chart, with each guestโ€™s name either pre-etched into the board (or printed on a mini flag then skewered into a piece of cheese for a more cost-effective option) and placed at their seat according to your seating chart.

Cheese boards are a safe choice and beloved for both summer weddings and fall weddings, as well as a variety of corporate events and special occasion celebrations, as guests may be craving an immediate bite while wanting to avoid either cold items or hot items depending on the current weather. Modern cheese and charcuterie boards are evolving with creative and diverse offerings, an easy solution to bring in rich color palettes to match the event theme.

Taco bar station and an event with a variety of chips and salsas
Grilled Yuzu Jalapeรฑo Beef Short Rib Skewers on a Yakitori Live Action Grill at an outdoor event
Brunch Omelet station at La Venta Inn with a chef preparing eggs in one pan and sauteed vegetables in the other pan in front of a lush green backdrop

Trend #4 – Live Action Cooking & Live Action Grilling ๐Ÿ”ฅ

After noticing a trend in guests wanting an interactive cooking element, with the desire to see their food being cooked in front of them without having to do any of the cooking themselves, we expanded upon our existing Stations and launched our new Yakitori Live Action Grill with Made by Meg Catering at select venues only, bringing two charcoal grills to event venues that allow for open air cooking. We love seeing guests filming the chefs flipping the skewers on the grill, then panning off to the finished product. To accommodate different dietary restrictions, we have three different gluten-free offerings for planners and hosts to order, including Grilled Yuzu Jalapeรฑo Beef Short Rib Skewers, Grilled Garlic Ginger Chicken Thigh Skewers, and Grilled Vegetable Skewer with Asparagus, Onion, Lemon, Ginger, Cremini & Shiitake Mushrooms.

One of our most popular Live Action Cooking Stations is the Tuscan Pasta Station, where guests get to choose their pasta (raviolo, penne, or tortellini), sauce (brown butter sage, garlic alfredo, spicy marinara), and topping (chili flakes, shaved parm, fresh basil) combinations and watch their pasta be cooked right in front of their eyes. Efficiency is key, with the pastas noodles and tortellini constantly being prepared by our chefs so that theyโ€™re readily available for guests, and the sauces are held warm in large vats and then added directly to the personal skillet.

Watching the Chef prepare globally inspired dishes adds an exciting element to your cuisine offerings at events, adding both buzz and deliciousness to your menu. โ€œGuests love that they can watch the Chef make their food,โ€ explains Chef Meg Walker. โ€œThey know itโ€™s fresh and just for them.โ€

Megโ€™s Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies individually wrapped
Megโ€™s Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies individually wrapped and tied with string on the thank you table near the exit of a wedding at La Venta Inn

Trend #5 – Snacks as Favors ๐ŸŽ

Sweet and salty snacks as corporate favors and wedding favors are the gifts that weโ€™ve noticed get taken home the most (weโ€™re sorry, mini personalized bubbles). Goodnight to-go snacks are perfect for the car ride home, and some of our most requested quick and ready-to-go sweet treats are macaroons in custom to-go boxes and Megโ€™s Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies individually wrapped, sometimes even with a sticker with the names of the wedding couple or brand logos with QR codes from corporate events. Although checking in and receiving luggage tags as seat assignments are practical and aesthetically pleasing, we regularly see them left behind by guests. 

Trend #6 – Gluten-free Catering Requirement ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ

With an increase in gluten-free among guests, chefs and servers need to be able to cater to this audience on a larger scale than ever before, with designated equipment and trained staff. Whether the guests have celiac or a gluten allergy or have chosen to be gluten-free as a preference or as a part of an anti-inflammatory diet, caterers need to be able to adjust accordingly. To accommodate for gluten-free within our kitchen at Made by Meg Catering in Torrance, we start with separate storage items and equipment clearly labeled Gluten-Free, from the separate bins containing gluten-free flour to designated Pitco double basket deep fryers that are only used for gluten free recipes to avoid any cross contamination, and they are covered when not in use. Being able to provide this extra level of safety allows gluten-free guests to be able to relax and enjoy both their meal and the event stress-free. We also have labeled everything that is gluten-free with a GF in our updated Catering Menu.

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Guests want the food served to make them feel special, whether thatโ€™s with pre-made customized items, interactive experiences, dishes made to order just for them based on their preferences, or the extra level of thoughtfulness going into accommodating allergies and dietary restrictions. 

If youโ€™re looking to incorporate fun and delicious trends into your next event, Made by Meg Catering has a variety of menu offerings and service styles for any upcoming parties and events across Los Angeles and Orange County. With the focus being guest experience and the highest quality cuisine possible, we offer a variety of packages to best meet the needs of your upcoming event.  

The Full List of Top 10 Food Trends at Events in 2025

  1. Mushrooms Arenโ€™t Just For Vegetarians/Vegans ๐Ÿ„
  2. Less Cake, More Dessert Stations ๐Ÿช
  3. Individual Mini Cheese Boards ๐Ÿง€
  4. Interactive Food Stations: Live Action Cooking & Live Action Grilling ๐Ÿ”ฅ
  5. Snacks as Favors ๐ŸŽ
  6. Gluten-free & Health-Conscious Options ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ
  7. Plant-Based and Alternative Proteins (hello, cauliflower steaks) ๐ŸŒฟ
  8. Comfort Foods with a Twist (mac nโ€™ cheese with lobster & truffle) ๐Ÿฆž
  9. Elevated Street Foods (gourmet hot dogs with shishito peppers on brioche) ๐ŸŒญ
  10. Gourmet Sliders & Sandwiches with unique, premium flavor combinations ๐Ÿ”

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10 Tips & Tricks for Food & Beverages for a Childrenโ€™s Birthday Party in Los Angeles

Starting the process of hosting a successful, fun, and safe children’s birthday party can feel overwhelming, but we are here to help!

#1 – AVOID CHOKING HAZARDS, EVEN WITH FRUIT & TAKE AWAY GIFTS

Do not give children a goodie bag with choking implements in it. Once they see the goodie bag, theyโ€™re never giving it back. Very young children donโ€™t have enough teeth for Starburst but theyโ€™re going to want them if they see them on a candy display or in a goodie bag. Instead, include dissolvable treats, like Yummy Puffs and other softer natural snacks, rather than hard candy. Itโ€™s difficult to serve certain types of fruit at children’s birthdays because they can be choking hazards; if youโ€™re looking to serve fruit, some tips are to cut washed grapes in half and remove the tops of strawberries before similarly cutting them in half. Refrigerated apple sauce packs make for an easy non-dairy treat. Never serve nuts – in addition to being a choking hazard and common allergy, many pediatricians recommend not giving children nuts until theyโ€™re 5 years old.

Vegetable spread pre cut in a kid friendly format
Young child standing next to table holding a bag of easy to eat snack
Kettle One Vodka bottles next to cups and florals and plates

#2 – PLAN THE MENU WITH KIDS AND DIETARY RESTRICTIONS IN MIND

Some snacks that we always have received positive feedback with catering for Made by Meg Catering at children’s birthday parties include grilled cheese, cruditรฉ cups in stick form, and French toast sticks (not just for breakfast!) with vanilla bean brioche. For appetizers, having a fun dip with fresh cruditรฉ ready for immediate snacking when your guests arrive adds a healthy component to your menu and takes one less at-event action item off your plate. 90% of the children’s parties have pizza, which means if the parent or child are gluten free or lactose intolerant, theyโ€™re not able to eat. Make sure to accommodate both adults and their kids who may have dietary restrictions with alternatives. This is a great opportunity to work with a caterer who keeps these types of event planning logistics in mind when putting together the perfect party menu.  

#3 – HAVE SEPARATE BEVERAGE STATIONS AND SEPARATE COOLERS

Always separate the kids coolers and adult’s coolers with clear labeling. Put fun stickers and a โ€œFor The Kids!โ€ sign on the cooler containing non-alcoholic options, and a straightforward โ€œAdults Only!โ€ sign on the beer can cooler. For the drinks table, if youโ€™re going to serve pre-batched beverages, we recommend the beverage in the serving container be alcohol-free, with a bottle of your desired spirit placed next to it, just in case a child is confused on if they can have the pink drink in the glass dispenser. For the adult bar, itโ€™s helpful to have clearly laid out the offerings so that guests know they can make it themselves.

#4 – MOCKTAIL SERVICE

Take the stress off and hire a designated bar service to cater both kid-approved mocktails (as well as adult beverages for the parents). Perfect for childrenโ€™s birthdays and Mitzvahs, some of our newest and most fun mocktail offerings with Tipsy Pear are the Tilt-A-Whirl with cotton candy & a licorice straw, Blue Lagoon with a blue sugar rim & gummy sharks, Shimmering Shirley with edible glitter and a cherry on top, and Singinโ€™ Gummy Bear garnished with gummy bears. Weโ€™ve seen a surge in Candyland-themed birthdays after Adam Sandlerโ€™s Netflix film, You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah, launched in summer 2023.

#5 – THINK SMALL PORTION SIZES

When planning childrenโ€™s portion sizes for food, drinks, and desserts, think small. That is, high in quantities, small in size. Pick up super small drink and snack packages because kids will open them and leave them scattered around the party. Along with small appetites, they have short attention spans. Youโ€™ll win with individual miniature desserts & mini cupcakes because theyโ€™re going to want to try more than one flavor.

Young girl counting cupcakes to ensure there are enough for the party
Different flavors of mini cupcakes displayed at a childrens party on wooden blocks
Colorful backyard table setup for children's party with light blue chairs, orange chairs, pink chairs, and an orange tablecloth on the dessert table

#6 – CONVENIENCE IS KEY

All kids and adult food need to be easy and fast to eat – think easily accessible packaged snacks for kids in multiple locations throughout the party venue. You never know where youโ€™re going to be when your kid gets cranky and desperately needs an immediate snack. Individual packaging and smaller bowls help also keep any hidden germs from getting other guests attending the party sick.

#7 -THINK ABOUT STAINS IN ADVANCE

Avoid super messy or saucy foods, no sloppy joeโ€™s or spaghetti pasta, even though theyโ€™re delicious. Donโ€™t order food with tons of food coloring dyes, especially cupcakes, because it goes straight through your body and can also stain any clothing or furniture of the hosts.

#8 – MAKE IT EASY TO STAY TIDY

Itโ€™s not the most fun to talk about, but itโ€™s even less fun to see abandoned trash around on your decorated tables. Place multiple trash cans in different areas around the party for easy and quick cleanup. Make sure all your setup and prep stations are ready in advance of your event. If youโ€™re hosting at home, before the party starts make sure to unload the dishwasher, take the trash out from all rooms in the house, and put a few empty trash bags at the bottom of your accessible trash can just in case someone else needs to take out a full trash bag mid-event. If youโ€™re having an outdoor daytime event, you can have a bottle of children-friendly sunscreen on the counter next to the hand soap for anyone who may have forgotten. 

Mirror and pink tablecloth for a braid bar for a My Little Pony kid's party
Shiny balloon backdrop for a children's party photo booth
Families in front of photo booth backdrop at My Little Pony party

#9 – HAVE FUN WITH YOUR THEME (AND PRIORITIZE KIDS HAVING FUN!)

Think about what activities the birthday child would find the most fun, unique, and memorable. If they love My Little Pony, look into colorful decorations and braid bars. If they love dogs, one fun idea is a Puppy Party, where you serve puppy chow (little Pirateโ€™s Booty or cheese puffs that are easy for young kids to eat) in mini disposable dog bowls. Little kids love eating hands-free like puppies and itโ€™s sure to be a fun time. Instead of a goodie bag, can adopt a toy pound puppy.

#10 – ADD AN INTERACTIVE ELEMENT WHEREVER YOU CAN

Think of hosting a child’s birthday like a magician with many scarves up their sleeve; the tricks keep coming and they can all be very simple. Have a fun surprise at every turn that doesnโ€™t take a ton of work so that youโ€™re not away from your guests for long and you can also enjoy your event. When it comes to fun kids mocktails, sometimes an interactive station is the way to go. For instance, a “build your own soda” station with fun garnishes and a variety of syrups to mix-in.  If youโ€™re having a bartending service at your event, see if they have a bubble gun to use on top of the drinks (both for the kids and adults) and change the smoke flavor to match the mocktail flavor as another fun way to create an interactive, memory-making event. Making the kids feel special and making them a part of their own creation adds to the fun of any event!

IN CLOSING

As you prepare for your childโ€™s next celebration in Los Angeles, remember that the right catering can transform an event into a stress-free and cherished memory. At Made by Meg Catering, we specialize in crafting delicious menus that delight both kids and adults, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience for everyone. From allergy-friendly options to playful mocktails and themed treats, our team is dedicated to making your event dreams come true. Contact us today to discover how we can bring joy and deliciousness to your next party!

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Top 5 Tips for Catering a Cocktail Party

Believe it or not, you donโ€™t have to plan a fancy, sit down dinner every time you host a special event. Sometimes, a cocktail party is the perfect solution for when you want to bring together good company, treat them to good food and drinks and enjoy a few hours of socializing without the pressure of planning a three-course meal. Cocktail parties are easy to plan, theyโ€™re glamorous and low stress and you can experiment with different flavors since youโ€™ll be serving a variety of hors dโ€™oeuvres. Whether you are planning a cocktail party for a corporate event or a special milestone, we have compiled our top five tips for catering a cocktail party to make it even easier for you!

The Invitations

Before the party begins, you have to invite your guests. Depending on the type of event youโ€™re hosting and the level of elegance you are trying to achieve you can send printed invitations in an envelope via the postal office, or you can send an informal, but elegant email invitation. 

The Drinks

If you are catering a cocktail party, you need to offer a full bar with a variety of liquor and mixers, and also come up with some signature drinks that feature a unique and delicious combination. The most important thing is to make sure you have enough alcohol for the number of guests in attendance. A 750-ml bottle of wine is enough for four generous glasses, so if you have 30 guests you will want to have at least ten bottles โ€“ remembering that white wine tends to be more popular. When stocking a full bar, keep in mind that each adult will consume an average of two drinks during the first hour and at least one drink for every hour thereafter. A one-liter bottle of alcohol will typically be enough for 22 mixed drinks, but itโ€™s always a good idea to get extra. Also, make sure to offer plenty of water, both flat and sparkling. You can make it special by serving it in a nice drink dispenser with fresh slices of lemon or a handful of colorful berries. 

The Food

The best part about a cocktail party is planning out the delicious hors dโ€™oeuvres and little bites to serve. You are not obligated to serve a full meal, but a variety in flavor, texture and presentation is a must. When it comes to catering a cocktail party, here are some guidelines we like to follow:

  • Use seasonal flavors โ€“ explore local farmerโ€™s markets and design your menu to be in line with the best tasting options. 
  • Mix it up โ€“ your food options donโ€™t have to match in any way. Itโ€™s ok to have five different flavors and textures, your guests will appreciate the variety. 
  • Offer traditional favorites โ€“ people love bite size appetizers like mac and cheese balls, soup shooters, ahi tuna on a chip, skewers, caprese bites and others!
  • Think of the vegetarians โ€“ always offer meatless options for guests who have dietary restrictions. This also includes Kosher, gluten free or vegan guests. Make sure to have dietary information ahead of time. 
  • Keep fillers like nuts, olives and cheese on hand for guests to snack on before the food is served. 
  • Consider offering a specialty station, like cruditรฉ, charcuterie, or a pizza. This way guests can nibble without waiting for the tray passed food to come around. 

The Dรฉcor

You donโ€™t need to provide full size tables and chairs for a cocktail party, but you will want to have bar height tables and maybe a lounge area where guests can sit and chat. Keep the dรฉcor simple โ€“ think black or white tablecloths, simple florals and tasteful tealights. You can add cute dรฉcor like custom bar napkins and monogrammed drink stirrers at the bar. You also want to make sure you have enough rentals for your guests โ€“ plate ware and glassware specifically. 

The Staff

When catering a cocktail party, you will want to hire a bartender and service staff. Based on the size of your event, itโ€™s typical to have one server per 10-15 guests, depending on the level of service you are looking to offer.  

Made by Meg Catering logo surrounded by photos from different events Made by Meg has catered with a variety of service styles, including colorful grazing boards, tray passed appetizers, interactive stations, and outdoor bars with alcohol, beer, and wine.

Hosting a cocktail party is a fun and low-stress way of bringing people together for a good time. When you work with our team, you can leave the planning and execution to us! Weโ€™ll come up with a unique menu to wow your guests and weโ€™ll ensure your event is professional, elegant and goes off without a hitch! Contact us to inquire about our availability and service options!

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Top 10 Wedding Venues in LA for 2023

Planning a wedding is an exciting, yet overwhelming experience. Finding the perfect venue is the first step in the process, and while there are many outstanding options to choose from โ€“ weโ€™ve compiled a list of the top ten Los Angeles wedding venues to consider in 2023. 

La Venta Inn

La Venta is an all-season, full-service venue for the ultimate ocean view wedding. Nestled in the hills of Palos Verdes Estates, La Venta is famous for being the first structure built on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. La Venta overlooks the Pacific Ocean with an incomparable panoramic view. With its picturesque Spanish villa architecture and gardens filled with lush flowers, succulents rose bushes, and palm trees, La Venta creates the perfect backdrop for your historic private estate wedding.

Malibu Rocky Oaks

This private vineyard has 360-degree views of the Santa Monica Mountains and rolling hillsides. Throw a gathering here and you will be enveloped in cool night breezes from the Pacific Ocean while basking in the most glorious sunset you have ever seen. Ceremonies on the Helipad make for truly iconic wedding photos! Founded and family owned since 2003, Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards consists of 10 planted acres on a 37-acre plot. Hand-picked and meticulously maintained by the same team of professionals since conception, the vineyard has become one of the most recognized and awarded in the region.

Greystone Mansion & Gardens

Located in Beverly Hills, Greystone Mansion is a historic building available for special events and weddings. It offers exclusivity, old Hollywood glamour and a charm that will make your wedding ceremony and reception truly unforgettable. You can host your ceremony in the luscious outdoor gardens and then dance the night away in the courtyard. The mansionโ€™s grand staircase is also a wonderful place to take pictures.

SmogShoppe

The perfect setting for an intimate wedding with your closest family and friends. With all of the beautiful lush greenery, you donโ€™t even feel like youโ€™re in Los Angeles. Once a 1980s smog-check center, Smog Shoppe is now a 100% solar-powered, private 6,500 square foot indoor/outdoor haven for desert plants, vertical gardens and chic vintage furnishings. The combined interior and exterior areas allow for quintessential California entertaining, making an ideal vintage wedding venue.

Hummingbird Nest Ranch

Hummingbird Nest Ranch is located far from the hustle and bustle of the city and offers an oasis of tranquility and beauty. The location extends over 140 acres and has much to offer for special events. This venue allows couples to embrace the a-la-carte way of planning a wedding, which means you have complete control over your event! 

Smashbox Studiosย 

Smashbox Studios is spectacular for your one-of-a-kind wedding. The clean lines, modern spaces and fully functional kitchen make this a very popular venue. Founded in 1991 by Dean and Davis Factor, great grandsons of acclaimed Hollywood makeup artist Max Factor, Smashbox is known throughout the industry as a hub for world-class photographers and directors to shoot important content for major magazines, ad campaigns, music & entertainment projects and brand visuals. In 1996 Dean and Davis launched Smashbox Cosmetics that has become the leading trend-setting global brand.

Saddlerock Ranch

This location is truly one in a million! The 1,000-acre estate is hidden in the hills of Malibu and is a highly sought-after film location. Couples will find there are numerous ceremony options to choose from with stunning backdrops, like a 250-year-old oak tree. Perhaps the most incredible part of this wedding venue is that you will find pastures inhabited by herds of horses, cattle and llamas along the way โ€“ you may even see a gorgeous peacock or a zebra!

Vibiana 

This 35,000-square-foot cathedral is over 130 years old! It was also LAโ€™s first Archdiocese Catholic cathedral before it was transformed into a beautiful wedding and event space. The Baroque-inspired interior is incredibly grand and offers enough space for a wedding party of 400-550 guests! The outdoor lush garden is stunning and secluded โ€“ you wouldnโ€™t even know that you were located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. 

The Lombardi House

Clean lines, open air spaces, manicured lawns, and twinkling lights. Nothing says Hollywood style more than the Lombardi House. Cultivate the wedding of your dreams, using their indoor outdoor space to create a day that is all your own. Built in 1904, Lombardi House is a fully restored Victorian-style farmhouse in the heart of Hollywood. Surrounded by mature fruit trees and gardens, this 7,000 square foot historic home sits within walking distance to the charming restaurants of Franklin Village, as well as Hollywood studios, theaters, shopping and dining.

Wayfarers Chapel

For those of you who are looking to get married in a church, but not interested in the traditional church setting โ€“ Wayfarers Chapel is the place for you. Located in Rancho Palos Verdes, this church is entirely made out of glass and offers breathtaking ocean views. There are already white flowers adorning the church as well, so you wonโ€™t have to splurge too much on florals and dรฉcor. Wayfarers chapel speaks for itself, once you see it, youโ€™re sure to fall in love. 

Whether your preference is traditional, rustic or ocean view, you are sure to find the perfect place to say โ€œI doโ€ in Los Angeles. Check out our preferred venues for additional inspiration, and keep us in mind when selecting the ultimate caterer for your special day! 

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Unique Fall Wedding Food Bars

Summer weddings can be a lot of fun, but lately many couples are opting for fall weddings. Fall weddings are the coziest and the warmest ones, and letโ€™s be honest, in Southern California you may just get better weather during fall than over summer. Fall flowers, vegetables and fruits are different from those that are in season the rest of the year, which opens up so many new possibilities for food, drinks and dรฉcor.ย 

When it comes to putting together your wedding menu, keep in mind that most guests appreciate when there are a few options to choose from. Traditionally, this means offering a meat, chicken, fish and a vegetarian option for the main course. Modern brides have embraced the idea of food stations and unique food bars that provide a wide range of appetizers, munchies and main courses for guests to enjoy. Itโ€™s not uncommon to see a sushi bar at a Los Angeles wedding regardless of the season! Additionally, you may see a raw bar, salad stations, soup bars, desert tables and more! Are you looking for a unique fall wedding food bar for your dream fall wedding? Here are a few inspired options that you may enjoy!

Charcuterie Station

A classic charcuterie station will never fail at a wedding reception. Guests can graze on a selection of cheeses paired with fruits, jams, veggies, cold cuts and more. An impressive charcuterie board is a true form of art, so itโ€™s extremely important that the station is arranged to look beautiful. Guests will also surely appreciate if there is a suggested wine pairing offered with the charcuterie.ย 

Taco Bar

Thereโ€™s nothing better than a delicious taco bar featured at a SoCal wedding. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared carne asada, chicken and steak served with guacamole, chips, cilantro and spicy salsas.ย 

Mac & Cheese Bar

Macaroni and cheese is no longer just a favorite childhood meal โ€“ it has become a staple at dinner tables across the United States! If you and your beau are fans of delicious, gooey mac and cheese then consider including a mac and cheese bar at your fall wedding. Guests can snack on an upgraded version of this nostalgic childhood favorite and enjoy elevated toppings like garlic and herb bread crumbs, Applewood smoked bacon, sautรฉed mushrooms, toasted walnuts, shaved truffle and more!

Fondue Station

Is there anything better than melted cheese? Probably not! A unique and elevated fondue station is sure to be a crowd pleaser at any event. You can serve various flavor combinations like spinach and artichoke, crab and artichoke and more. Pair the station with a selection of cruditรฉ, crostini, fresh baked bread and more.ย 

Chili Bar

If your wedding is taking place towards the end of the fall season and you expect chilly weather, think about offering guests the option of a warm chili bar. The chili can be prepared ahead of time and kept warm, but guests will be able to choose their toppings, like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, scallions, red onions, etc.ย 

Donut Station

Who doesnโ€™t love donuts?! You donโ€™t have to offer fancy, artistic donuts to your guests, but it will definitely be a fun experience to allow them to choose their favorite donut and add sprinkles to it. Allow guests to choose from multiple flavors like cinnamon and sugar, sugar glaze, powdered sugar, chocolate glaze or maple glaze. Toppings can include chocolate sprinkles, rainbow sprinkles or any other fun twists you can come up with.

Sโ€™mores Bar

Organize a gorgeous sโ€™mores bar to encourage people to socialize and enjoy a delicious sweet treat that everybody loves. Hide the hot fuel cans in a wooden box with pebbles so it looks pretty, but is also safe for use. Set up the graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate and sticks separately so people can build their own sโ€™mores sandwiches. You can even pair this with a hot chocolate station, include a selection of cookies and other sweet treats to make it the highlight of the evening!

Pie Bar

Consider a pie bar instead of a traditional wedding cake for desert! Give your guests the option to choose from a few different flavors like apple pie, blueberry crumble, pumpkin pie, key lime or peach crumble. Remember that a warm pie is best served with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.ย 

Everyone appreciates a cocktail bar at a wedding, but some of our new favorite bars actually serve food. If youโ€™re looking for more inspiration or ideas for your fall wedding contact our team โ€“ weโ€™d love to brainstorm with you. We would love to bring your concept to life and put together an exceptional and unique fall wedding food bar for your special event. Follow us on Instagram for even more inspiration!