Viewing entries tagged
felici events

Golf Theme Bar Mitzvah at Glen Annie Golf Course

Golf Theme Bar Mitzvah at Glen Annie Golf Course

 

Alec is a sporty young man, so when his mom told us she had chosed Glen Annie Golf Club as the receptin location, we screamed, Fore! because we knew we would hit this ball off course.

 

1st Annual ARISE 5K Walk and Run at Leadbetter

The first annual 5K Walk and Run was a community friend-raiser and fund-raiser for Santa Barbara Rescue Mission’s Bethel House Women’s Residential Treatment Program. We accommodated 300 or so runners and walkers to help raise money and awareness for this organization’s mission.

Felici Events has built the website, created the marketing materials, digital media, and promotion, submitted free listings, and organized community efforts of sponsorship and word-of-mouth promotion with our partners and sponsors. Felici Events has also produced and managed the logistics of the event, including registration, rentals, volunteers, decor, food, beverage, and entertainment.

A little more about me, featured on Voyager LA - Meet Zohe Felici of Santa Barbara Wedding Style

A little more about me, featured on Voyager LA - Meet Zohe Felici of Santa Barbara Wedding Style

I loved this feature for one of my businesses, Santa Barbara Wedding Style, a blog dedicated to providing curated free inspirations to couples getting married in the American Riviera and surrounding areas.

Thank You Voyager LA for the write-up. You can see the whole post HERE


Today we’d like to introduce you to Zohe Felici.

Zohe, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am a zealous wedding and event professional and business mentor.

I was born into a family of Felici Events (literally, in the womb, haha). Being 100% Italian born and raised, our family gathered at each meal and treated it as a celebration. And while at each meal, we were already planning our next meal, menu or gathering.

My passion for hospitality and career in the food and beverage industry started when I was three years old. I would be at my mom’s side, to help prepare dinner, set the table, and then play waitress. I recited the specials then would write down my family’s dinner order on (my favorite thing ever) an authentic carbon copy diner’s pad……I could barely read and write yet.

My love affair with restauranteering continued into college. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from the University of North Texas and immediately launched my career into the corporate ladder of the 5-star luxury resort industry. This gifted me with a solid foundation in business, management, forecasting, exemplary guest services, and the training to lead empowered teams.

In the spring of 2006, I took a leap of faith and left the stability of corporate America to become an event manager for an established independent wedding and event planning company, and eventually launching my own Event Production Company, Felici Events, where I create immersive, creative and memorable experiences for intimate gatherings to large scale festivals.

In 2015, I became a “duo”-preneur and purchased www.SantaBarbaraWedding.com, A wedding blog dedicated to providing engaged couples resources and inspiration for planning their wedding in and around Santa Barbara.

In 2018 I became a coach and mentor for creative event professionals and wedding planners who desire to catapult their wedding/event business by attracting their perfect clients and uncovering five-figure months consistently.

I could not run the show for these three profitable wedding and event businesses without the support of a dedicated team, and am so grateful. I continue to grow all three companies while being an expert speaker and continuing to share my knowledge at numerous event industry conferences around the United States.

Has it been a smooth road?
Anytime there is growth, there certainly are struggles that accompany it. When I launched Felici Events, I had less than $500 in the bank. I WAS TERRIFIED. It was a powerhouse of event pro-“friend”ssional women who supported me as I gave birth to my brand and helped me find my courage to built my event production company. I was instantly planning weddings, fundraisers, corporate events, mitzvahs, and large international festivals with over 20,000 attendees.

In 2017 and 2018 Santa Barbara experienced the destructive Thomas fire and devastating mudslides. They not only affected our community, small businesses, and morale but also toppled the wedding industry with venues that were affected by the disasters. It was our community of wedding and event professionals who bound together to help each other and strengthen our efforts.

Now maneuvering thru COVID-19 and the effects of the pandemic to our industry, our wedding and event professionals have bonded more than ever to help each other maneuver thru such an unprecedented climate. Leading the group with weekly zoom calls, I was able to ensure that wedding + event pros from across the country got the support they need to flourish from the economic, emotional and social symptoms of the Pandemic.

We’d love to hear more about your business.
I own and operate three businesses, all within the event industry.

Felici Events is a first-class, award-winning full-service event planning and production company that specializes in immersive and memorable events from 10 to 20,000 guests. Felici Events understands that excellent customer service relies on a complex choreography of often invisible moving parts. It is Zohe’s ability to manage both her clients and vendors that are the cornerstones to her success and countless happy clients who hire her company for their gatherings and special events.

Santa Barbara Wedding is a wedding blog dedicated to providing engaged couples resources and inspiration for planning their wedding in and around Santa Barbara. Zohe’s passion for showcasing the talented wedding planning professionals and venues of the American Riviera is curated especially for our blog and #SharingLoveInSB for you, and couples’ dream Santa Barbara wedding weekend!

ZoheFelici.com is a six-figure creative event-pro business coach. Part strategist and part motivational mentor, I provide no-fluff programs for creative event professionals who are ready to transform their businesses, uncover a consistent additional five figures per month, and LOVE what they do.

I know the demands and risks of running an event business. I provide the accountability, knowledge, tools, and perspective to overcome these challenges in order to build momentum and catapult results toward your event professionals DREAMS and GOALS.

Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Yes, absolutely it is a great place to start an event planning business. There is such a supportive community in the Los Angeles area, between ILEA, NACE, WIPA as well as various independent wedding + event groups, the support is there, and the magic of events happens in LA starting all the celebrity and movie industry celebrations.

Contact Info:


Image Credit:

image Willa Kveta Photography

8th Annual Halloween Dance Party 10.31.19

8th Annual Halloween Dance Party 10.31.19

ABOUT

Join us for this wicked dance party produced annually by Felici Events.

VooDoo Lounge Halloween Dance Party
Saturday, 10/31 to Benefit
TVSB
9PM to 12:30AM

Funk Zone Lounge

209 Gray Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93101


2019 marks the 8th year of this fundraising Halloween Dance Party with this year’s proceeds benefitting a local non-profit, TV Santa Barbara.

Includes DJ and dancing entertainment by DJ Scott Topper, special dance performances, tarot card readers, a haunted Action Photo Booth, ca$h prize costume contest & the Voodoo Altar making this a haunting evening to remember!

The Funk Zone Lounge will have spirited specials and Shalhoob Yummi Finger Food available for purchase the night of the event.



ENTRY INCLUDES:

Costume Contest at Midnight
1st place $200 CA$H | 2nd place $50 gift certificate

Professional Photography | Haunted Photo Booth | Tarot Card Readers | Surprise Entertainment

Cash bar with spooky signature cocktails + full bar | Food available for purchase (included w/ VIP ticket)

Scott Topper DJ'ing | Voodoo Altar | Dancing Zombies Welcome!


Halloween 2018

At Viva Modern Mexican Restaurant

images by Kelsey Crews Photo






From Cars to Culture: How Immersive European Storytelling Transformed a Charity Fundraiser

From Cars to Culture: How Immersive European Storytelling Transformed a Charity Fundraiser

When the United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County approached Felici Events to elevate their annual Rally 4 Kids fundraiser, we knew that simply arranging tables and chairs wouldn't create the transformative experience their cause deserved. With over 3,100 youth depending on UBGC's essential after-school programs, this fundraiser needed to be more than just an event—it needed to be an unforgettable journey that would open hearts, minds, and checkbooks.

Beyond Traditional Fundraising: The Immersive Experience Advantage

Traditional charity galas follow a predictable format: silent auction, dinner, speeches, paddle raise. But after producing hundreds of events since 2006, we've learned that immersion creates investment in ways that conventional approaches simply cannot match.

For the Rally 4 Kids "European Affair" theme, we didn't just decorate a venue—we created a multi-sensory European tour that began the moment guests arrived at the stunning Bella Vista Ranch in Summerland.


Grand Arrival: When Fashion Meets Function

The journey began with an entrance lined with the day's rally participants' luxury vehicles—Porsches, Ferraris, McLarens, Bentleys, and classic Alfa Romeos—creating an immediate sense of European automotive excellence.

But the true showstopper was our innovative red carpet entrance. Rather than a traditional straight walkway, we designed a winding red carpet that culminated in a stunning visual illusion: the carpet appeared to become the flowing dress of a live performer stationed at the entrance. This Instagram-worthy moment created immediate buzz and set the tone for an evening where nothing would be ordinary.

"I've attended dozens of galas in Santa Barbara, but I've never seen an entrance like this," remarked one longtime supporter. "Before I even reached the cocktail area, I knew this wouldn't be a typical fundraiser."

Cocktail Hour: Interactive Cultural Ambassadors

Instead of standard servers circulating with appetizers, we transformed the cocktail reception into a European street scene with character actors representing three distinct European cultures:

  • Italian Gondolier: Complete with striped shirt, traditional hat, and authentic Italian accent, our gondolier didn't just serve Aperol Spritzes—he shared stories about Venice's famous canals and taught guests Italian phrases, creating micro-moments of cultural education.

  • Dutch Girl: With traditional braids, wooden shoes, and carrying tulips, our Dutch representative offered guests traditional bitterballen and jenever tastings while sharing facts about the Netherlands' rich history of supporting children's education.

  • British Bobby: Our authentic-looking British police officer maintained "order" with witty banter while serving gin cocktails and discussing the history of youth clubs in the UK (which actually inspired the Boys & Girls Clubs movement in America).

These interactive characters didn't just entertain—they subtly reinforced the global importance of youth development programs similar to what UBGC provides locally.

"The characters made learning about European culture fun, but they also cleverly tied everything back to the cause," noted one first-time attendee. "I found myself drawing parallels between youth programs in Europe and what the Boys & Girls Clubs do here."

Mini Rally Mayhem: Racing for a Cause

During cocktail hour, we orchestrated an unexpected burst of competitive energy with our signature Box Car Mini Rally. Four custom-designed miniature cars—each sponsored by a different donor team—raced head-to-head on a specially constructed track that commanded center stage in the reception area.

Guests gathered around, cocktails in hand, cheering for their favorites as these carefully crafted vehicles zoomed down the track. The playful competition drew crowds, sparked friendly rivalry, and cleverly reinforced the day's rally theme while creating a natural opportunity for additional fundraising. Teams placed last-minute "enhancement" bids to give their cars advantages—special wheels, weight reductions, or even subtle track advantages—with all proceeds benefiting UBGC programs.

"The mini rally absolutely electrified the cocktail hour," noted one longtime supporter. "It gave everyone something to talk about and created this wonderful shared experience before we even sat down for dinner."

Culinary Theatre: The Gastro Garage Experience

We partnered with The Gastro Garage, an immersive culinary performance group, to create an interactive food experience that complemented our European theme. As guests moved through the cocktail reception, they encountered chefs in mechanic-inspired attire wielding blowtorches to finish gourmet donut sliders before their eyes.

These weren't ordinary appetizers—they were theatrical performances that engaged all senses. The visual drama of flames caramelizing toppings, the sizzling sounds, the aromas wafting through the air, and finally, the explosion of flavors as guests bit into these savory creations. Each slider featured European-inspired flavor combinations that reinforced our theme.

To complement these show-stopping sliders, servers circulated with international soup shots—petite portions of European soups served in shot glasses that provided a perfect welcome taste. From Spanish gazpacho to French onion to Italian minestrone, these small bites told a culinary story of Europe's diverse food traditions.

"The Gastro Garage experience created immediate conversation starters," noted one board member. "I watched complete strangers bonding over the spectacle of these chefs torching food right in front of them. It broke down barriers in a way traditional passed appetizers never could."

Dining Drama: The "Singing Waiter" Experience

The theatrical immersion continued seamlessly into dinner with our signature "Singing Waiter" experience—a performance element that has since been requested at multiple high-profile events throughout Santa Barbara County.

The scenario began innocently enough: a seemingly disgruntled server "accidentally" dropped a tray of glasses, creating a commotion that drew all eyes. As the maitre d' rushed over to address the situation, the "drunken" waiter grabbed the microphone, interrupting emcees CJ Ward and Beth Farnsworth.

Just as guests began shifting uncomfortably in their seats, wondering if they were witnessing an actual disruption, the waiter broke into a powerful operatic performance of "O Sole Mio," revealing himself as a professionally trained opera singer.

Throughout dinner, the performance evolved into what guests later described as "dinner theater meets mob movie," with various servers revealing their musical talents in unexpected moments—from Italian arias to French chanson to Spanish flamenco-inspired pieces.

"The progression from 'Oh no, this is awkward' to 'Wow, this is amazing!' created an emotional journey that kept everyone engaged," explained Michael Baker, CEO of United Boys & Girls Clubs. "People weren't checking their phones or having side conversations—they were fully present, wondering what would happen next."

The Impact: Immersion Drives Investment

The results spoke for themselves:

  • The event raised approximately $250,000 for UBGC's after-school programming

  • Attendance increased from previous years to 320 guests

  • Demand grew so significantly that subsequent events moved to larger venues to accommodate 500+ anticipated attendees

  • Several first-time donors became major supporters, citing the immersive experience as what convinced them of the organization's creativity and resourcefulness

"What Felici Events created wasn't just entertaining—it was strategic," commented Tony Vallejo, UBGC Board Chair. "The immersive elements kept guests engaged throughout the evening, which meant they were fully present during our mission moments and fundraising appeals."

The Psychology Behind Immersive Fundraising

Our approach to the Rally 4 Kids leveraged several key psychological principles that fundraising research has consistently validated:

  1. Transportational Engagement: When people are "transported" into a narrative experience, they demonstrate greater empathy and are more likely to take action that aligns with the story's values.

  2. Peak-End Rule: People judge experiences largely based on how they felt at the most intense moments and at the end, rather than an average of the entire experience. Our strategic emotional high points created lasting impressions.

  3. Reciprocity Principle: When guests receive an exceptional experience (rather than just a meal), they feel a natural desire to reciprocate with greater generosity.

  4. Sensory Integration: Engaging multiple senses simultaneously creates stronger memory encoding and emotional connection, making donors more likely to support the cause in the future.

Creating Your Own Immersive Fundraising Experience

While every nonprofit has unique needs, our experience with the Rally 4 Kids offers valuable lessons for any organization looking to elevate their fundraising efforts:

  1. Begin the experience at arrival: Your event starts the moment guests approach the venue, not when they sit down for dinner.

  2. Create unexpected moments: Strategic surprises reset attention spans and create memorable highlights.

  3. Integrate mission with entertainment: Every entertaining element should ultimately connect back to your cause.

  4. Engage all five senses: Consider not just what guests will see and hear, but what they'll taste, smell, and touch throughout the experience.

  5. Build emotional progression: Map out an intentional emotional journey that culminates at your giving moment.

The Future of Fundraising Is Immersive

As philanthropy continues to evolve, donors increasingly expect more than a tax deduction in exchange for their support—they want meaningful experiences that connect them to causes in authentic ways.

For the United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County, the "European Affair" wasn't just a successful fundraiser; it established a new standard for how the organization engages with supporters. The immersive approach has since become a signature element of their fundraising strategy, helping them expand programming to new locations in Buellton, Solvang, and beyond.

"What makes Felici Events different is their understanding that fundraising isn't just about asking for money—it's about creating an environment where giving feels like a natural extension of an extraordinary experience," reflected Michael Baker. "They transformed our event from a traditional gala into a journey our supporters didn't want to end."

As we continue to develop innovative approaches to fundraising events, one thing remains clear: in a world of constant digital distraction, immersive in-person experiences have unparalleled power to connect people to causes in ways that inspire genuine, sustainable support.

Whether you're planning a major gala, an intimate donor cultivation event, or something in between, the principles of immersive storytelling can help your organization not just raise funds, but build a community of passionate advocates who will support your mission for years to come.

Looking to transform your next fundraising event from ordinary to extraordinary? Contact Felici Events to discuss how immersive experiences can help your organization exceed your fundraising goals while creating unforgettable memories for your supporters.






Lavender & Purple Wedding at Alice Keck Park & El Paseo Restaurant

Lavender & Purple Wedding at Alice Keck Park & El Paseo Restaurant

Featured on Santa Barbara Wedding Style Blog, this bride and groom are very special to Zohe because the groom is one of Zohe's best friends, and Zohe was honored when they asked her to plan their Santa Barbara wedding.

The couple chose to hold their ceremony at the beautiful Alice Keck Park in Santa Barbara, since that is where they had part of their first date. 

The bride knew her colors from the start of the wedding planning, that is why the bridesmaids wore purple, knee length gowns and carried varied shades of purple floral bouquets crafted by the ever talented Margaret Joan Florals.  

The couple hung different shades of purple ribbons behind them at the existing lush ceremony altar, creating a fun backdrop as Rich Tobin led the couple through their vows. Guitar Witt duo softly played Spanish style music throughout the ceremony which incorporated the bride's Cuban background and added romance to the park’s ambiance. 

Felici Events worked with this couple to plan a wonderful day for them as they moved from the ceremony to the iconic El Paseo Restaurant for their reception.

Kelsey Crews Photo captured the day so perfectly and that she even got a few shots in of the couple’s beloved pooch, Kirby, who made his appearance at the ceremony. The day ended on a sweet note with a full dance floor of dancers, and nonstop dancing to music provided by Gavin Roy Presents as well as a delicious cake by Christine Dahl Pastries.

Cake - Christine Dahl Pastries

Ceremony Venue - Alice Keck Park

Flowers - Margaret Jordan Floral

Lighting - SPARK Creative Events

Music ~ Ceremony & Cocktails - Guitar Witt

Music ~ Reception - DJ Gavin Roy

Officiate - Rich Tobin

Photography - Kelsey Crews Photo

Planner - Felici Events

Reception Venue - El Paseo Restaurant

Rentals - Just 4 Fun Party Rentals

Private Estate Silver + Blue Santa Barbara Wedding

Private Estate Silver + Blue Santa Barbara Wedding

Villa Verano February Santa Barbara Wedding

This very special private estate wedding was full of delight, elegance and a class act couple to go along with it!  When Jill + Jason sought me out, they did not have a location picked out yet, but knew they wanted to get married 2.15.15 because of Jason's work schedule (Hight School teacher in NYC).  They were really leaning toward a luxury hotel wedding, but wedding planning is my thing and reading people my talent.

Because their friends, families and selves were coming to California from the East Coast, I suggested they look at private venues.  This would allow them to enjoy the weather and stunning views Santa Barbara offers for longer than a 2 hour stint (with daylight savings, they would have most of the reception in the dark).   Soooo, off to see venues we went, and Villa Verano is what they fell in love with.  It allowed for their close family to stay w/ them (just as if they were in a hotel) and enjoy the property and privacy for their entire stay.

I The colors the client chose were silver and blue for this February affair.  Below the gorgeous invitations created by the über talented Lazaro Press and Designs.

Jill and Jason Invitation Wedding Blue and Silver Felici Events
Jill and Jason Invitation Wedding Blue and Silver Felici Events

The wedding ceremony took place at the quaint and intimate setting of the lower garden on the property. Their officiate, a close friend, did a phenomenal job with the ceremony.  I would hire her for all of my nuptials if she lived closer, not New York City.

Jill and Jason Wedding Ceremony Villa Verano Felici Events
Jill and Jason Wedding Ceremony Villa Verano Felici Events

The colors worked so well with the venue, flirty flowers, elegant linens and silver rimmed glassware

Jill and Jason Table Set Up Felici Events Villa Verano
Jill and Jason Table Set Up Felici Events Villa Verano
Jill and Jason Excort Card display on hydrangea Felici Events
Jill and Jason Excort Card display on hydrangea Felici Events

The escort cards are displayed on a bed of hydrangeas which eventually became a focal point.  

The couple's sweetheart table full of lush white floral with the themed colors.

sweetheart table felici events villa verano
sweetheart table felici events villa verano
villa verano view
villa verano view

Here is a full view of the gorgeous reception terrace, with string lights and heaters provided by the venue. 

Felici Events Blue and Silver table top birds eye view
Felici Events Blue and Silver table top birds eye view

And a birds eye view of the gorge white floral with lily's hydrangeas, paler roses, white roses and more.

We don't know what was prettier, the backdrop of the American Riviera or the simple and delicious wedding cake.

room for cake felici events blue and silver
room for cake felici events blue and silver
sweetheart table felici events chandelier
sweetheart table felici events chandelier

Listening to the toasts, the chandelier above the sweetheart table brought romance to the decor.

First Dance Jill and Jason
First Dance Jill and Jason

And their first dance!

thank you bride and groom felici events
thank you bride and groom felici events

We love this moment captured by the photographer of the bride laughing at her new hubby.  He is a funny guy, and she has a great laugh, so we are partial to this image.  Thank YOU Jill + Jason for hiring Felici Events as your planner for your perfect winter Southern California Wedding!

Grazie Mille to the Team of Vendors who made this magical week-end happen!

Cake - Room For Cake

Catering - Omni Catering & Events

Flowers - Coco Rose Design

Hair/Make Up - Chateau Belle

Invitation - Lazaro Press & Design

Lighting - Bella Vista Designs

Music ~ Ceremony & Cocktails - The Aurora Ensemble

Music ~ Reception - DJScott Topper Productions

Photography - Andrejka Photography

Planner - Felici Events

Rentals - The Tent Merchant