CATERING TO CULINARY COUPLES

With such varied scenery throughout San Diego County, couples searching for a reception room with a view have a multitude of options. From vineyard view to oceanfront, cityscape to golf course, here's a selection of wedding sites that will leave any spectator satisfied:

It used to be that when you thought of wedding food, your mind immediately conjured up images of tray-passed pigs in a blanket and banquet-ready rubber chicken. These days, however, couples who consider themselves culinary connoisseurs have an abundance of choices to feed their foodie friends and family. One local catering company, ChileCo Catering, specializes in setting the table for the most (favorably) talked-about wedding food a palate-conscious couple can find.

"We spare no expense at utilizing only the finest organic ingredients and nurturing each dish with artistic talent, attentive detail and culinary passion," explains ChileCo's executive chef, Scott Wagner, who started his company in Orange County in 2000 and has since expanded to specialize in weddings, private parties and corporate events in San Diego, O.C. and Los Angeles.

"Our avant-garde cuisine is supplemented by the most amazing staff that we hand-pick for their charisma and level of professionalism," he continues. "But mostly, we personally treat each wedding as if it was our own--we share your dreams and create the magical mood that lasts a lifetime."

In creating that extraordinary culinary experience, chef Scotty and ChileCo meet the needs of trend-setting, food-focused couples who are seeking more than a traditional caterer might offer. "As the idea of a traditional ceremony fades with each passing year, more and more brides are swaying from the plated dinner or buffet service and opting for sassy culinary stations with 'petite plates' and dozens of customized hors d'oeuvres to appease guests' appetites without the necessity of banquet seating," he explains.

Still, chef Scotty understands that his method might not be the best choice for every couple; it's for those looking to embark on a culinary adventure and to impress upon their guests an unforgettable food experience. "ChileCo isn't the caterer for everyone," he says. "When you hire us, you are making a statement that the food and service are to be the highlight of your occasion. Our personal touch only illuminates the entire experience. We transcend our business relationship and consider ourselves personally accountable as your friend."

Among chef Scotty's favorite wedding dishes: nouveau dim sum; Muscovy duck breast (he says, "Just say no to chicken!"); moonfish; duets of epicurean hors d'oeuvres; intermezzos and really creative salads. For more information, call 866-66-CATER or visit www.chilecocatering.com.

    
 
 
   
   


A DO-GOOD WEDDING GOWN

Shopping for a wedding gown is one of the most important pre-wedding events on a bride's to-do list. What may not make it to the list: donating to charity. But thanks to nonprofit organization Brides Against Breast Cancer, dress-shoppers can also be do-gooders--while getting a bargain-basement price on their wedding gown. For more information, visit www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org.

    
     
   


FINISHING TOUCHES:
MAKING A PEEP

Your wedding gown may graze the floor, but that's no reason to put your precious tootsies in anything less than high-fashion footwear. This spring and summer, give your feet the attention they deserve with a pair of peep-toe wedding shoes. A wide range of designers are making a peep with their wedding shoe collections--from Cynthia Rowley and Vera Wang to Kate Spade and Stuart Weitzman--which all offer peep-toe styles in a range of colors, heel sizes and price ranges.