Get Hitched at "The Drake" in San Francisco!

The same year, the first color movie is demonstrated, the clip-on tie is designed and the Sir Francis Drake Hotel was built; it was 1928.

Known as “The Drake” to locals, the elegant, romantic and classic hotel hardly evokes thoughts of men wearing clip-on ties.  Designed to reflect the European Renaissance of the 1500s—adorned with a grand marble staircase, vaulted gold leafed ceilings, and mural’s reflecting the adventures of its namesake—the ever glamorous wedding venue rose out of the ashes of the Great Earthquake to become synonymous with San Francisco itself.

Not surprisingly, the famous venue maintains its reputation as one of the most sought after places, attracting brides and grooms from around the United States and abroad.  The hotel can accommodate up to 250 guests in its striking ballrooms.  Start with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in Harry Denton’s Starlight Room for its dazzling impression and breathtaking views of the city.

And what make the Sir Francis Drake very special? We believe it is the people who represent it so well. 

Tom Sweeney, San Francisco’s most legendary doorman, has been with the hotel joyfully for more than 30 years.  Scala’s Bistro Executive Chef Jennifer Biesty, Coco500 vet and Top Chef alum, dishes a memorable meal.  And wedding specialist Robin Lewis has 25 years of experience to love on you for your special day.

Contact Robin Lewis (415) 395-8526

Our Body Painting Experience [for our Holiday Card]

Entire Productions' Holiday Card. From left: Tyler, Natasha, Vhary, Jacqueline

What I love about working at Entire Productions is that nothing here is impossible. You want risqué holiday cards, an image of topless women with only our backs painted? You got it!

Scene: A weekday afternoon in line for coffee at Starbucks. We are surrounded by quiet, focused men and women in boardroom attire while we compete with the group of men behind us to see who can laugh the loudest in a public space. Jacqueline, Natasha and I are talking about branding and how important it is to make an impression.

Jacqueline throws out the idea of Sandra Leathley painting instruments on our bodies and Natasha suggests we do it for Christmas, that our being topless would really make an impression. I call dibs on the violin and suggest that Jacqueline get a saxophone painted on her arm. None of it’s serious talk, we’re just wasting time in the line for coffee. Then Natasha says, “I think this is a great idea. Let's do it.”

Upon contacting Sandra, the idea quickly changed from painting instruments (too cumbersome) to rendering the San Francisco skyline on our backsides, iconic symbols such as the Golden Gate Bridge, a cable car, Coit Tower, and the Transamerica Pyramid. Sandra's one of those people who does many things well: she has all sorts of characters ready to go and is herself a highly-skilled photographer, costume maker, and face and body painter extraordinaire.

Sandra starts with Natasha.

We then found photographer, Philippe Lee, an artistic-adventurous type with a studio on Treasure Island. It is beautiful, a huge warehouse with many different rooms, each decorated in a different style: One with saturated, bright red walls and a nook full of Turkish cushions; another with a 60s Style refrigerator and walls covered in corrugated tin. The room where we got painted was near the top of the warehouse, just below a huge decorated plastic tree with a swing set hanging from its branches.

Sandra working on 6' 2" Tyler Merrill.

The painting took several hours--mine was the shortest time, Jacqueline’s the longest. I spent a good amount of it in black leggings with a drape over my chest eating sandwiches and talking shop, waving my one blue hand around and getting comfortable with the sight of my similarly clad coworkers.

Tyler after shoot in Jade Studio's Asian Inspired Room

The actual photography session was great. Philippe kept it short and managed to get some gorgeous shots. The whole time, we were all laughing and joking, and trying to get our positions right. Afterward, I felt like I’d been through something funny and yet significant with my colleagues, like a pie-fight and a wedding put together.

By Vhary Leggat, Entire Productions Office Manager Extraordinaire

San Francisco's Prescott Hotel (Kimpton Hotel) Special Offer $129!

I recently visited the Prescott Hotel and was impressed with the boutique feeling and little details (really beautiful Ralph Lauren Sheets) and amenities.



Jun Berton gave me a tour, and I am planning on staying there one night after power-shopping for Christmas! Here are some of the highlights:

• Complimentary high speed Internet access
• Complimentary morning coffee and tea reception
• Hosted evening wine hour, a signature feature of Kimpton Hotels, invites guests to relax after a full day of work or travel, or as the beginning of an evening of dining or entertainment.
• Complimentary access to the Fitness Center (open 6am-10pm)
• The Prescott Hotel is a smoke free establishment
• Pet-friendly accommodations

Club Level :

• Complimentary continental breakfast served in Postrio
• Full bar hosted evening reception including fresh pizza from Postrio
• Ice and bottled mineral water available upon request
• Complimentary overnight shoe shine

The Prescott Hotel is offering a $129.00 rate for any group bookings and individual bookings for November and December (based on space availability) when you mention "Entire Productions". Call Jun to book!

Jun Berton at 415-447-6964 or jun.berton@kimptonhotels.com

Sir Francis Drake gets a Modern Facelift! (stay for $129!)

I had the pleasure of touring the newly renovated Sir Francis Drake Hotel with Eva Noskova who is the corporate sales manager. She is lovely, enthusiastic and great to work with!




The rooms all have the Kimpton Hotel flair, fun colors and modern touches. They've reclaimed and recycled elements as well so they're doing their part to be green! Some of the rooms overlook Union Square and I had visions of staying there at Christmas time and seeing all of the lights at night! Maybe I'll book a room for a stay-cation! They have a brand-new fitness room and Starbucks is the cafe in their building. I wouldn't have to leave!

Which brings me to this! Through the end of this year, you can book a room at the Sir Francis Drake for $129 (based on availability) when you mention the "Entire Productions" room rate. You must contact Eva directly: 415-395-8502 eva.noskova@kimptonhotels.com















Yes, even though they've remodeled, they still have the traditional doormen in their Beefeater costume.

The entry is grand and the mezzanine is a perfect place to kick back and relax after a long day of power-shopping!

Join Me at the City Club Affaire

The City Club is a stunning, unusual and old-world venue that will certainly impress guests and make them feel comfortable all at the same time! I LOVE it there. Its Art Deco architecture and interior evoke the artistry and flair of a time gone by.




The beautiful mural by Diego Rivera is the centerpiece and a beautiful backdrop to the impressive grand stairway. It's a perfect photo-op for couples, or your entire group!


As a member of the City Club, I have been treated to the divine cuisine of the Chef! It's wonderful, and their service is impeccable!

Join us there on October 4th to see for yourself, and experience the City Club in its full regalia! We are a preferred vendor and take pride in booking the perfect entertainment for your event. We love what we do!

Sign up now, and let me know if you're to be expected. I look forward to seeing everyone there!

-Natasha

Great Mother-of-the-Bride Outfit Event!

Presented by Neiman Marcus & Kathy of Well Rehearsed, this event will have every mother-of-the-bride (and groom) looking perfectly wonderful and comfortable in something appropriate for her! Don't miss it!

Seghesio Family Vineyard (Wine As It Was Meant To be Enjoyed)

There is service and then there is service with style. Met by someone with good humor, forthrightness, a depth of knowledge and genuine desire to delight, I don’t forget.

And so, our recent Sunday afternoon visit to Seghesio Family Vineyards in Healdsburg, Sonoma County, was unforgettable!

I traveled from San Francisco with an unexpected mix of new friends and old, to sit at the Family Tables and enjoy wine as it was intended … “around a table with food and friends.” (A very affordable and yet extravagant experience, by the way.)



The small private dining rooms hosting up to 16 people are full of Seghesio history memorabilia and artifacts that came alive via our passionate and knowledgeable hostess, Mary.

Mary also shared impressive tidbits about the delicious food prepared by Chef Jon Helquist (formerly of Chez Panisse, Oliveto, the Martini House and Manzanita), and of course the illustrious life of the limited edition wines we tasted.

Seghesio Family Vineyards is Bonded Winery number 850, making it among the oldest in the U.S. (There are now 6,000 wineries in California alone.) Bonded in 1902, the vineyards reap 80,000 cases of wine per year, a full 68,000 of them their Blue Label Sonoma County Zinfandel. Given the reach and popularity of these old vine wines, the remaining efforts go into producing 12 limited edition specialty varietals.

If you go—and I highly suggest that you do go—ask for Mary or for Dana. Dana was my introduction to the Vineyards a few weeks prior and handles all events. Like Mary, Dana takes an admirable and infectious pride in her work with the Seghesio Family and thus makes you feel right at home.

You may visit the Family Tables Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Call to reserve a seating at 707-433-7764.

I’ve also included information below on a super fun event with a master of BBQ, Chris Lilly, brought in from the Midwest for the special occasion. There are two bocce ball courts on the property, and plenty of room for family lounging.

Go. You will be happy you did!

Summer Barbecue Festival
Date: Saturday, August 1st—11:30 to 4:00
Location: Seghesio Winery—The Grove

All-star BBQ Pit Master, Chris Lilly, will be back in town for our 6th Annual BEST of BBQ Festival!

Our mentor Chris Lilly, who taught us how to make magic with our custom-built pits Blaze & Flame, will be here to test our skills and join us on the pit. Hot off the BBQ—enjoy our baby back ribs, pulled pork sliders and tequila grilled shrimp—which make for the ideal pairing with our Zins. Meet and visit with our family growers, who will be pouring our single vineyard Zinfandels. Sign up when you arrive for one of Chris' famous "Make your own BBQ rub" classes, with 3 sessions during the event. Enjoy live music by the Hellhounds, and nab a picture of your own "pit crew" at the Orange Photography's photo stand. Chris will be signing his Big Bob Gibson BBQ Book—(that's right, the secret recipes are out!).

- Jacqueline Stolte/Director of Marketing and Sales

Casa Bella Blanca Soiree!

What a wonderful evening!

"Unveiling of a Gem: Casa Bella Blanca" was produced by Entire Productions & Barbara Llewellyn Catering & Event Planning with Blueprint Studios. As guests arrived, they were greeted by the valet in crisp white jackets, then entered the beautiful new event space at 1045 Divisadero. Upon entering they were offered a lovely white Sangria by Barbara Llewellyn Catering and greeted by the hosts.

Jacqueline Stolte of Entire Productions had the following to say about Barbara Llewellyn's catering staff,

"They were very impressive: always cheerful -- as if they were having a good time, in the most professional way -- and very graceful in their ability to move through the crowd. This to me is what makes a party great. It pulls together food, ambiance/environment, entertainment and guests!"

I could not have expressed it better.

In the living room Flamenco Guitarist Jean Paul Buongiorno serenaded the guests folled by DJ Juan Data who spun latin music through the night.

Check out the photos!

All photos © Craig Merrill

Guests were free to explore the great white home owned by Rafael Galiano & John Martin, as well were given tours of this beautifully appointed Victorian home.

Photographer Craig Merrill captured the life and joy of the party... see if you found your way into his lens!

Walking through the beautifully staged rooms by Blueprint Studios on the bottom floor, you were beckoned outdoors by the crisp air, sounds of up-tempo Latin music by DJ Imani and the delicious passed delicacies by Barbara Llewellyn.

Fito Reinoso took to the stage with his Cuban band and the dance floor erupted in a salsa frenzy. OK, not really a frenzy but event planner Crystal Lequang showed us her ballroom salsa moves, and Entire Productions' own Natasha Miller got into the spirit for a few songs. Later in the evening... everyone was out on the dance floor!

Check out the photos in the slide show, and see if you can find one of you!

If you weren't able to make it to the party, then enjoy the photos and the menu selections Barbara Llewellyn created for this event.

Tequila Glazed Spicy Shrimp
Served with house made yellow and white tortilla chips and avocado cream

Miniature Cuban Sandwiches

Chile and Lime Spice Sweet Potato Fries

Caribbean Crab Cakes
With lemongrass-coconut butter

Jerk Chicken on Flatbread
Shaved red onion, grilled pineapple and cilantro

Fresh Tomato Corn and Black bean Salad
Tossed with garlic-lime vinaigrette
Served in a mini brandy snifter topped with a tortilla chip

Miniature Tropical Cupcakes

Key Lime Shortbread Cookies

Specialty Drinks
Tropical Iced Tea
Mojitos
Cuba Libres served in mini coke bottles
White Wine Summer Sangria

Wedding Ceremonies/Receptions: Live Music?

I was asked to participate in a book being written by harpist Anne Roos that will be called “The Bride’s Guide to Musicians: Live Wedding Music Made Easy and Affordable”. It will be published by Hal Leonard sometime next year.

Below is the Q & A. I'm sure it will all be edited down, but it's good information in and of itself.

1. How AND why do you encourage brides to include live music for their wedding festivities? What do you feel are the benefits of a live music performance at a wedding, versus using a DJ, a stereo or iPod, or no music at all?

"I always encourage brides to have live music for their wedding ceremony, certainly. There is nothing that compares to the sound of real instruments being played at such an incredibly intimate and “once-in-a-lifetime” event. The sound of recorded music is sterile during a ceremony, and you never know if the person “pushing the button” will have the volume at the right level, or the correct song cued up."

"As for the cocktail hour and wedding reception, I always encourage them to find the absolute right ensemble for them. This is not always the typical wedding dance band, but something that is truly meaningful and relevant to them, and their guests. The musicians are interactive and lend an energy to the event that cannot be replicated by recorded music. If the bride want the original song performed, then they can use an iPod or hire a DJ for those specific times, as well as to play during breaks."


2. How do you find musicians to recommend to brides?

"I have an entertainment and talent booking agency that was born because I was getting called so much to perform as a violinist and jazz vocalist. I have over 500 musicians in my database, and I hand select the right musicians for each event and client."


3. If a bride wants live music, but she’s on a tight budget, what kinds of suggestions do you offer her so that she can still include live music at her wedding?

"I always suggest a soloist if nothing else over recorded music. A violinist, flutist, harpist, or even a cellist, guitarist, saxophonist can play the melody of any song ever written beautifully!"

4. What do you think a bride should look for in choosing a great musician, band, or ensemble?

"Look for their history, past performances for wedding ceremonies specifically because they are much different than playing through a straight hour of background music. Then check their website out and listen to their samples. Speak to the leader and get a sense for their professionalism and interest in your event, and talk with them about repertoire. If anything feels wrong, then move on to the next group. Referrals are always the best!"


5. What do you feel a bride should ask musicians before she decides to book them?

"What time they plan on arriving, what their set-up time will be, and if they’ll send a contract. This will set the tone for the event and make sure everyone has the correct timing in agreement. Everything should be agreed upon before a contract is signed, and a deposit paid, as they are usually non-refundable."


6. What suggestions do you offer to a bride if she cannot find the specific instrumentation that she is looking for?

"Instrumentation is important in a lot of cases, but if the instrument can be replaced with another like-sounding instrument or an instrument in a similar range, they should be encouraged to consider that. For instance, a violin and a flute play in the same range, and have a similar ability for execution of a piece."


7. What suggestions do you offer to brides about how to communicate with musicians so that everything goes smoothly on her big day?

"A bride should have every detail planned out with the leader of the group including the following:

• Exact Physical address and directions to the venue
• The name or location within the venue where they are to perform
• Load in time, location and instructions
• What kind of furniture, amplification and protection from the elements are needed?
• How many attendants are processing before the bride including ring bearer and flower girl?
• Exact repertoire for the ceremony (and suggestions and guidelines for the prelude music)
• How long after the recessional piece do they want the group to perform for as people are leaving the ceremony site?

This will insure that everyone knows what’s expected of them."

Fire & Icing = AMAZINGLY beautiful and DECADENTLY delicious CAKE!

I'm not joking. I was salivating upon seeing this beautiful cake arrive at an event-planning networking event at the Hotel Monaco's Grand cafe. I thought, "Certainly we wouldn't be able to taste it." But I asked, and I received! Of course, the chef that created it wanted all to know... it's the BEST TASTING WEDDING CAKE ever. Period. (as far as my experience goes).



From Pastry Chef Dante/Creator:

"It is a Citrus Nut Cake, made with almond and hazelnut flour (the flour consists of well-grounded hazelnuts and almonds that have first been roasted, then ground to a fine meal). It is a 5-part cake, meaning it is made up of adding 5 different parts in 5 different stages: meringue, an egg yolk mixture, the flour mixture, frangipan, and heavy cream. The cake contains finely grated zest from the best oranges available, and a hint of rose water.

The result is a cake that is dense, but incredibly rich and moist because of the oil in the nuts. Very similar to morning bread. It has a strong taste of nuts and citrus, which are a wonderful combination.

The sugar chalice cake topper was hand-molded out of pastillage and decorated with royal icing, then hand-painted in edible gold and luster dust colors."



I thought the icing might taste chewy/chalky... but it was AMAZING!!! Smooth, sweet and I want more!

Run... do not walk to order your next cake from him! I'm getting one for my daughter's birthday in July! Harry Potter cake anyone?

Dante Nuno
www.FireAndIcing.com
dantenuno@gmail.com