Culinary's "Concepts"

...from some people who know what they're talking about!  The Professional Convention Management Association declared the following in their December 2009 issue:

"Offering delegates a thrilling experience at a unique venue...what better way is there to take private events to a whole new level? San Diego offers that with the USS Midway Museum, one of the longest-serving, most accomplished aircraft carriers in U.S. Navy history.

• For nearly 95 percent of all event guests coming aboard the USS Midway, this will be their first and only chance to set foot on an aircraft carrier.
• The largest ship in the world for a decade, the USS Midway dazzles visitors with its expansive space and distinctive setting alongside downtown's Navy Pier in San Diego Bay.
  
• Poised about 50 feet above San Diego Bay, the 4.02-acre flight deck - useable almost year-round - spans approximately 50,000 square feet and offers breathtaking 360-degree views of sunsets over the Pacific Ocean, the Coronado Bridge, and the sparkling city skyline. 
• Group space in the center of the flight deck is bordered by Midway's air wing of 25 restored helicopters, reconnaissance, and attack aircraft, and is ideal for tented (up to 100' x 140') and outdoor events.
• The hangar deck offers more than 30,000 square feet of indoor space in two separate hangar bays.
• Customized activities include tours led by docents (some of whom have served aboard the ship), skydiver shows, flight simulators, and fireworks displays.
  
• Planners also can work with the USS Midway to book a riveting speaker/author who brings its fascinating history to life."

 

Finally, a little down time after the hectic holiday season, where I can get around to posting some fun wedding photos from back in the summer!  What I liked so much about these shots is that they exhibit 2 venues not too frequently thought of as wedding spaces, both located in beautiful Balboa Park.  

The 1st, captured by Jenetta Lea Penner Photography, took place at the Casa Del Prado, a great, open Spanish-style courtyard.  It was really a magical place for a ceremony, a quiet oasis right in the middle of the bustling park.

The 2nd spot is the Spanish Village, a historic series of buildings, gazebos and courtyards that transport guest to an earlier time.  The glowing couple took a moment for a snapshot at a favorite restaurant of theirs (and ours!), Pokez in downtown (try the Potato, Mushroom, and Tofu Burrito for an unique vegetarian delight!).  They were then whisked up to the Spanish Village for a fairy tale reception.  The way the vibrant colors pop in the photos is awesome, from the urban mural, to the setting sun reflecting off of the multi colored tiles of the courtyard! Photos courtesy of Kristina Chartier with San Diego Wedding Candids

The lovely ladies from Destination Concepts took the afternoon off for some food, wine and holiday fun.  Chefs Manfred, Chris and Andres kindly led a cooking class, instructing on everything from frying to searing, puff pastry to salad greens, all while prepping an amazing meal (luckily I got to sample the goods!).  The ladies got their hands dirty, taking turns grilling shrimp, whisking dressings, pureeing soup & enjoying the holiday spirit! 

Here's a really simple yet delicious fresh fruit dessert the ladies learned to make:

we must have been good this year! 

• "Please know that I send extra special thanks to you, and the Culinary Concepts staff that assisted MFCU with our December Holiday Meeting.   As you know, we simplified things this year, and stayed onsite… but I must tell you, the food was the best we’ve had in years at this annual event.   A number of staff raved about the menu - from everything to your salads and main dishes, to the chocolate shavings for the coffee. They were truly happy.  Thank you for putting a great menu together, for being so accommodating to our timeline, and to your servers; Jeff, Dan and Jaime.  It was a pleasure to work with such helpful, kind and professional staff. Last but not least, cheers to those staff in the kitchen cooking up your delightful food. You all helped make our event a success!!!"

  Corinne Morash, Mission Federal Credit Union

• "Once again, you guys came through with flying colors! Today’s lunch was wonderful – beautifully presented and great tasting.  Best wishes for the holidays!"

We're excited to annouce one of our latest special event venues: ANTHOLOGY SAN DIEGO!  We catered an event there in October, and it went beautifully (check out the pics below).  It was a corporate event, however click here to read a feature from The Wedding Source blog about a recent wedding held at Anthology--looks like a fun, unique spot for couples seeking a more motroplitan, downtown vibe. If you haven't had the opportunity go to Anthology for a dinner and a show--hurry up, you're missing out!