Camp Wedding: Carol and Chris

 

Ahh, summer.  The quintessential time of year that children of all ages look forward to. No school, no tests, no schedule. Just time to relax, enjoy good moments with friends, and for the lucky few, attend an awesome summer camp. But who says that good-time feeling has to end? Chris and Carol wanted all the fun and joy associated with camp, but with the company of their loved ones for their wedding day. It looks as though they achieved just the perfect amount of relaxation, celebration, and good times all around.

 Handmade details were present throughout the property, from the welcome signs and guestbook to the seating and flower-filled roll-top desk. A sign painted with the words "You are what you love" were prominently displayed on our rock-lined tiers for all guests to see. It was a motto that emanated from that morning deep into the dancing festivities at night. Guests were offered parasols to shade themselves from the sun peeking through the oaks and they were armed with signs shouting, "Hooray!" for the special moment the bride and groom would say, "I do."

       

From the ceremony, guests moved to the main lawn and terrace area for drinks, dancing, and fun! Reception tables were outfitted with our own vintage china place settings, complete with wine goblets and mason jars. Small, green succulents were scattered on the tables and were complimented by lacy LED votive holders for a romantic ambiance once the sun went down. All the decorations created a natural elegance that enhanced the space and echoed the Camp Wedding theme. 

As day turned to night, everyone flocked to the dance floor to celebrate Chris and Carol and the love they have for one another. A photo booth complete with silly props was set up for guests to take pictures and even the couple got in on the fun! From parasols on the dance floor to the Lego cupcake toppers, Chris and Carol crafted a unique, loving celebration for their wedding day. Who needs camp when you can have Camp Wedding?

A special thanks to the wonderful photographers at Atrero Photography and all the talented vendors who made this wedding one to remember! 

Wedding Consultant: Laura Lambillotte, I do...Weddings and Events
Florals: Melissa Barrad
Rentals: Hidden Valley
Officiant: Carolyn Krish
Photographer and Photobooth: Atrero Photography
Dessert: Twiggs Bakery
Hair: Bluxom Salon: Marchelle
Makeup: Mahal Style: Rochelle
Transportation: WESS Transportation, 760-272-0025

Signature Cocktails!

Hello, Hidden Valley Friends!

As usual, there are lots of exciting, new developments bubbling at the property. With our partners at Best Beverage Catering, we've come up with some yummy signature cocktails. We've concocted three options:

• Iced Tea, Lemonade, Vodka, Soda Water
• Lemonade, Limeade, Tequila, Triple Sec, Soda Water
• Pink Lemonade Cranberry Juice, Champagne, Soda Water

Each option sounds great, but we need your help to make them amazing! We're looking for some fabulous, wedding/love themed names for each signature cocktail, and we'd love to know what you think! These are our favorites so far:

• Sparkling Sweetheart
• Lovebird's Kiss
• Two of a Kind
• A Perfect Match
• Forever Together

Let us know what you think! Comment here or on our Facebook page with your vote. Feel free to offer other suggestions if you have a great cocktail name! We're excited to hear from you.

Did you say you’re getting married in Escondido?

With a name that means “hidden” in Spanish, Escondido is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. The region, located due north of downtown San Diego, occupies a shallow valley ringed by rocky hills. Incorporated in 1888, Escondido is one of the oldest cities in San Diego County. Although Juan Bautista de Anza, a Spanish explorer making his way north in 1776, is credited with its founding, a Native American tribe, known as the San Dieguenos, first arrived into this region over 10,000 years ago.
With yearly average temperatures rarely dropping below 40°F or reaching above 90°F, the temperate clime allows locals and visitors alike to take ample advantage of the region’s cultural, historical, and entertaining amusements. It is here, in Escondido, where there is truly something for every person, of every age.
For the culturally minded, the downtown’s bustling Grand Avenue has experienced a contemporary renaissance of late. The doors of numerous cafes, restaurants, and galleries, such as the Minghei, have recently been opened along this busy, main thoroughfare. In nearby Grape Park, the California Center for the Arts awaits. A 12-acre campus, it features state-of-the-art theaters, a visual arts museum, an educational complex, and a conference center. (www.artcenter.org)
For the history buff, the Escondido History Museum displays the city's original Santa Fe Depot, first library, Victorian house, barn, and blacksmith shop, while the San Pasqual Battlefield commemorates the Mexican American war. The 50-acre State Historical Park boasts a Visitor Center, an amphitheatre, and a half-mile walking trail, all of which pay homage to the bloodiest encounter the American Army fought in order to win California from Mexico.
Hop on board the “Heart of Africa” safari at the world famous Wild Animal Park and take an open air tour around the thirty acre park where animals roam and fly free just like they do in the African Sahara. (www.sandiegozoo.com) If it is a free escape that you are looking for then check out Queen Califia’s Magical Circle. A brilliant mosaic adorned sculpture garden, it is located within the sprawling Kit Carson Park, and is the last major international work by French artist, Niki de Saint Phalle.
Right down the road from our historic ranch sits Lake Wolford, an angler’s dream. Stocked with Rainbow Trout, Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, and Crappies, the lake offers inexpensive daily rates and boat rentals. (www.ci.escondido.ca.us)
With half a dozen wineries, two casinos, shopping, golf courses, the Mt. Palomar Observatory, and San Diego’s renowned beaches all within a short drive, Escondido, California is the ideal destination wedding location. And it is just a heart beat away from the thriving city center of San Diego.

No Idle Hands Here

Last year, the Hidden Valley's newest owner, Fiona Markowitz, applied her artistic vision to decorating and re-designing all of the bedrooms found within the property's two main facilities. Walls were painted, from the neutral tones of Asian-themed bedrooms to the vibrant pastels found in the Main House's suites, curtains and bedspreads were sewn and hung, and imaginary worlds were brought to life, as is the case in the African Safari Room. A large space that sleeps 10 people in bunk-style beds. A dilapidated barn was refurbished and is now a rustic, but comfortable living space that can accomodate up to 14 overnight guests.

Your Retreat, Reunion, Vacation, or Small Wedding + the Hidden Valley

The Hidden Valley is a reasonable reprieve from these economy blues! Where else can you sleep up to 40 of your closest friends, and relatives, and breathe fresh, country air, dive into an azure pool, and eat from organic fruit trees?
With beginning rates at $1500.oo, which include exclusive use of the entire 11-acre property, the Hidden Valley is an affordable paradise that will inspire in you and your loved ones rejuvenation, readiness, and relaxation.
Call Stephen at (760) 749-3093, or or our office at (619) 239-7700, to book your reservations now.

Firefighter Appreciation Day Held On Our Historic Property

As many of you remember, in October 2007, a firestorm devastated southern California. Valley Center, along with many other communities, was affected. My husband and I had just purchased our dream property and had to helplessly watch as the Witch Creek fire raced through the valley towards our home. Just as the fire was only 10 feet from our house, the firemen arrived and saved us. It was a miracle and we thank our dear friends, the Valley Center Fire Department, for their bravery and for driving into the raging fire to save our dream. They are our local heroes, as I’m sure you will agree.

One year later, we felt it was time to show our gratitude by hosting a fundraiser in their honor. We opened up our property to the community with music, food, education, and fun. The best part was that a sizeable donation was made to the Valley Center Fire Department to use as needed.


We look forward to making a difference in our community again, one of these days soon. We thank all of our local heroes! And we thank you, -thanks for coming out, swaying to the music, and making it a day to remember!

The Legendary Daughter of Dr. Paul C. Bragg Visits The Hidden Valley

On October 6th, 2008, Patricia Bragg, daughter of Dr. Paul C. Bragg the renowned founder of the American Health Movement, visited the Hidden Valley Retreat and Spa. The vivacious and spunky Patricia, who maintains the secret of her year of birth, is a Life Extension Nutritionist. She has authored 22 Self-Health Books, and she has lectured as a health educator internationally. Heralding the march of a dynamic health crusade, Patricia has served as a fitness advisor to world leaders, Hollywood stars, singers, dancers and athletes.

On this autumn day, however, Patricia was found spiritedly traversing the rolling hillsides, private walking trails, and organic gardens of our backyard while reminiscing upon her memories of this sacred landscape that date back to Dr. Bernard Jensen’s tenure.

Spinning wild tales and offering sage advice, Patricia had this to say of her afternoon visit:

“The Hidden Valley is the perfect nature spa to recharge the body, mind, and soul!”