CYCater

2011-12-09T14:13:00.000-08:00

Romantic and fun, CYC is your one-stop event location.....
We are open to the public and are even available for buy outs!
Book your upcoming 2012 event before the end of January, and we will waive the dance floor!

Shannon and Matt Wedding

2011-08-24T11:53:00.000-07:00

Our spring and summer has been overflowing with beautiful, romantic weddings! I have been so busy, I had to put down my blogging pen for a while..

Here are some shots of Shannon and Matt's wedding reception held on a perfect day here at CYC. The Bride and Groom are a wonderful couple and friends and family enjoyed each other 's company as well as spectacular Marina views and Chef's Hector's delicious cuisine.

Enjoy the shots provided by Lovely Leaf Studios......and cheers to Shannon and Matt!

California Science Center sails into California Yacht Club

2011-04-25T09:58:00.000-07:00

We were more than thrilled to have the research vessel the Macrocystis est Maximus (means Giant Kelp) captained by Chris Wade cruise into one of our slips for the day. The California Science Center in Los Angeles holds some of the most important science displays and exhibits, each one more fascinating than the next. I personally am a huge fan, so when they approached me about holding their Foundation Meeting here, I was ecstatic.

They had their meeting and power point in our Fireside/ Epicurean room where you have a spectacular view of the Marina while the presentation is going on! That is quite a perk.... Following their meeting, guests were greeted by smiling servers with trays of champagne as well as Chef Hector's yummy hors d' oeuvres as they made their way to the dock to see what sea-life the ship had picked up right off the Palos Verdes Peninsula that morning. (Don't try this yourself: they are very hard to keep alive in captivity and the science center vessel and their new home back at the center is state of the art!)

Bonjour~

2011-04-08T14:24:00.000-07:00

"Rue de Paris, Temps de Pluie" by Gustave Callebotte (1848-1894)

Winter is finally over and our Spring Parties are in full swing. We just had our Power Fleet Spring Dance: "April in Paris" with a French menu and an artist's flair.

Our talented club members brought in their own art and a Paris street scene was created! Our CYC members enjoyed an art show and wines before sitting down to a "tres belle" feast of Coq au Vin and Paupiette of Sole with Salmon Mousseline and Veloute Sauce. Our Chef loves to create new, exciting menus from around the world.

We pride ourselves on being able to producing some very international cuisine.

So here is to " Joie de Vivre" which can mean "a joy of everything......a comprehensive joy"

Have a joyful spring!

CYC Cocktail Club

2011-03-05T13:33:00.000-08:00

It's almost spring and our weather is fabulous, our food sublime and weting your wistle...

It's easy with our *CYC Cocktail Club.*

For the 1st hour of your Reception or event ~all beverages flow freely from our friendly and attentive bartenders.

Then sit down and relax with our house champagne and wine ~ it's all included for only $19.95++ per guest.

Call to book your event today!

Lorri Wressell

Happy Valentine's Day from Lorri and Ashley!

2011-02-06T09:26:00.000-08:00

Ah...romance is in the air

Kisses to all!!

What a Beautiful Day!

2011-01-12T10:46:00.001-08:00

Let's all go back to summer!

Last August we hosted a very special Wedding-John and Yukiko wanted a casual, fun feel for their ceremony and reception.

Her family flew in from Japan so we just had to have Sushi from Hirozen Japanese Cuisine as well as traditional American fare.

No one could have been lovlier then Yukiko as her father escorted her down the isle. We have a slideshow for you by "Blue Silver Photo" Enjoy!

Yukiko and John Wedding Slideshow

Happy New Year!!

2011-01-06T09:52:00.000-08:00

We know there are some newly engaged couples out there --

We want to congratulate you on this wonderful, Life changing event!

CYC is the perfect place for your wedding; Private and elegant with stunning views, personal care and service, and delicious cuisine, we are Perfect for you!

See more photos below

--Best to all in 2011 from Lorri and Ashley from the Catering department!

Tis the Season!

2010-12-02T14:39:00.000-08:00

I always know it's time to do my Holiday cards when we host the Holiday Boat Parade Judges Luncheon every December. This year the boat parade will be on Saturday December 11th and the best view of all is captured from our clubhouse.

This gives the Judges a chance to discuss the finer aspects of Judging while enjoying Chef Hector's delectable Chicken Piccatta and some Holiday Cheer!

Pictured here is last years winning entry created by the CYC Jr. Sailers. They turned our committee boat into a Hamburger and Fries topped with ketchup!

The club looks so festive during the holidays-we have a Poinsettia theme going on this year!

Ho Ho Ho and Seasons Greetings from Lorri and Ashley

What Could Be More Perfect?

2010-11-06T13:00:00.001-07:00

A handsome military man from South America and his stunning bride to be...Old-World charm set the standard for Alexis and Mariano's beautiful outdoor wedding and tented reception. Marine blues ruled the ceremony, while satin white and navy set the tone in our tent for a festive evening. Guests enjoyed champaigne and wines from around the world along with our fantastic cuisine.Cheers, good health and long life to Alexis and Mariano!!
Photography

2010-11-06T10:56:00.000-07:00

2010-11-06T10:51:00.000-07:00

We Love Our Weather

2010-07-23T13:30:00.001-07:00

One of the great things about the marina is our ocean-kissed sea breeze. Even on a hot day, the marina is usually much cooler than the surrounding area. Check out or weather right now from Weather.com .

Patty & Zach tie the knot!

2010-06-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

Ahoy all ye romantics,

We were very privileged to host the wedding reception of Patty and Zach this past May. What a sweet couple! Patty was gorgeous both at St. Monica's Church in Santa Monica and then arriving by limo to the Club. Guests were greeted by a traditional Mariachi band and later feasted on our scrumptious Champagne Brunch.

Zach and his groomsmen boasted wonderful traditional tuxes with a pink accent to compliment the flower arrangements, which Patty and Co. did themselves! The bride and groom looked amazing but their daughter, Ariel, almost stole the show.

We have some wonderful pictures to share with you, compliments of Miguel Torres Photography, who captured the day in style.To see more pictures from Patty and Zach's wedding day and more of Miguel's amazing work, visit his blog.

Best wedding wishes and kisses to Patty and Zach!

A Few Client Testimonials

2010-06-05T16:02:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Well, we simply hate to toot our own horn, but we will anyway. Here are some testimonials from some of our happy clients:

We were, needless to say, pleased with the ambiance of the club but more than that, your professional and pleasant demeanor was refreshing.
-Susie, Laurie & Dalia
Women's Business Forum

From Yelp:
I had my wedding reception here! I highly recommend this location for such occasions. The staff we had that evening was FANTASTIC. Our servers did a great job....Our planner, Lorri, was available when we were to discuss layouts and linens. The food was amazing- several of our friends have been raving about it since!

I couldn't have picked a better location. It was simple and elegant; everyone loved watching the sunset over the water. We were able to make the event indoor and outdoor, which was perfect.

-Blair, Bride

I recently had my wedding reception here and it was absolutely wonderful. Lorri, the Director of Catering, was one of the main reasons we chose the club as she is highly organized, wonderful to work with and she took control of everything so we didn't have to hire a planner/coordinator. Her assistant, Tiara was a pleasure to work with as well. We had the outdoor tent with chandeliers which was breathtaking. The location in the marina was very unique and all of our guests complimented us on both the tent, surroundings and of course, the food! We did a lobster tail & filet and it was incredible!

We couldn't have asked for a better day and the Cal Yacht Club made it all possible and practically worry free (and it was VERY affordable compared to other locations in the area). I would highly recommend the yacht club for anyone looking to have their wedding or any type of celebration.
-Lara, Bride

From Wedding Wire:

5.0 out of 5.0	Quality of Service:	(5.0/5.0)
	Responsiveness:	(5.0/5.0)
	Professionalism:	(5.0/5.0)
	Value For Cost:	(5.0/5.0)
	Flexibility:	(5.0/5.0)

Lorri, at the Yacht Club, provided the most professional service. She was accommodating, flexible, and prompt to respond to all concerns. Lorri also had a great sense of humor which made for a smooth and relaxing wedding journey. I cannot say enough about the quality employees at the Yacht Club. All employees are welcoming and make you feel like their #1 customer. I loved the people, place, and pleasant atmosphere. Make certain to include the Yacht Club in your wedding venue search...without hesitation!!

Anonymous, Bride

Fascinating and Historic Ballona Creek and Wetlands

2010-05-01T16:42:00.000-07:00

*Photo courtesy of Ballona Wetlands

We have a great view here at CYC. Sometimes, an occasional visit from one of the many water birds that live in and around the neighboring Ballona Wetlands, makes our great view even better. Besides the ever present Seagulls and Pelicans, we can see Great Blue Herons, Snowy Egrets, Night Herons and many more that call the surrounding area home.

Before the Marina was constructed in the late 1950's, the area was natural bird habitat and farm land. Unfortunately, only 10% of California's original wetlands remain today. Friends of Ballona Wetlands, with more than 60,000 volunteers, put a lot of effort into protecting one of last wetland systems left in Los Angeles County.

A bike ride along the Marina and up Ballona Creek is a thrilling ride for "birders" and sight-seers alike (our friendly neighbors at the Marina International Hotel and Bungalows rent bikes for daily rides at low cost). Check out the Friends of Ballona Wetlands website to learn about their interesting history and more information on becoming a volunteer.

Let's Dance

2010-03-20T12:20:00.000-07:00

The dance floor is a big part of your celebration. We want to encourage you to "shake a leg" - on us!

If you book your event by April 30th, regardless of your event date, we will waive the dance floor fee - a $300 value.

Love is in the Air!

2010-02-19T15:04:00.000-08:00

Valentine's day has come and gone. We know there are some very excited brides-to-be out there... Let us be the first to congratulate you!

Planning your wedding does not have to be difficult. Here at CYC, we make it exciting and fun. We love to arrange every detail for you. From menu planning and table linens, to floor plans and budgeting - we are here for you. Call for an appointment today.

CYC Cocktail Club

2010-02-03T12:00:00.000-08:00

Are you a fun-loving bride and groom looking to book a wedding that will reflect your sense of spirit? Join the CYC Cocktail Club!

This special package covers all beverages including premium liquor, beer and house wine as well as sparkling water, juice and soft drinks for your one-hour cocktail reception.

Continue the celebration with house sparkling to toast the new Bride and Groom! With dinner, savor your choice of our delicious house wines.

A complete beverage package, perfect for you at a fantastic price of just $19.95++ per person. Book your wedding today!

CYC New Year Promotion

2009-12-20T14:09:00.000-08:00

We're bringing in the new year with another great promotion - book with us by January 31, 2010 and we will waive the dance floor fee. That's $300 in savings. Dance the night away!

Seasons Greetings!

2009-12-18T09:38:00.000-08:00

Ho, ho, ho from Lorri and Tiara-

Whew! What a fast and furious last two weeks we've had with corporate, as well as private holiday events. Check out some our photos below.

Fairy Lights on the Front Lawn

Tented Pool Patio

Festive Receptions in the Gallery Room

Holiday Cheer in the Fireside Room

....and our 2009 Commodores Ball

the theme was Northen Lights

From both of us- have a joyous holiday and a peaceful and prosperous new year!

*Floral arrangments in this post arranged by Accent on Design.

Destination: Marina del Rey

2009-11-08T14:39:00.000-08:00

Thinking of a Destination Wedding? It's here!

CYC is a great getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Surrounded by the Marina, enjoy cool breezes in the summer and mild temperatures in the Winter. With superlative views, shopping, restaurants, movie theaters and tons of fun activities - we are the perfect spot for your out of town guests...and you!

A 10-minute cab ride from LAX and your friends and family are checking in to any of the hotels just a stone's throw from the Club. The Ritz-Carlton is a 5-minute walk and is offering very attractive rates for our Wedding and Corporate Groups.

So make it a whole weekend affair! Call us, we would love to help you set up your "mini-wedding-vacation".

Come Celebrate the Holidays in the Marina!

2009-10-15T09:30:00.000-07:00

Come enjoy the festivities of the season with a nautical flair at California Yacht Club. With our custom holiday decor and the marina lit up with holiday lights, CYC is the perfect place for your family or corporate holiday party - breakfast, lunch or dinner! We offer full club buy-outs on Mondays and Tuesdays and our Fireside, Epicurean and Gallery rooms are available throughout the week. Interested in getting your room fee waived? Ask us how!

Photos Courtesy of Martin H. McCarthy

A Very Romantic Tale

2009-10-10T15:40:00.001-07:00

Once upon a time, in a land far away, a young prince sailed the seas looking for his princess.... and found her in Antigua. She also had been sailing the globe, searching for the man of her dreams. He hailed from England, and she from the mid-west, and they are now here - their new home - just an oar's stroke from our fair club. Not only did the fair wind herald them to us for their elegant wedding, we also are privileged to have them as California Yacht Club Members. Congratulations and welcome aboard to Lara and Tim.

Master photographer Amelia Lyon was gracious enough to provide us with the beautiful moments she captured through her lens. A third generation wedding professional, Amelia has been featured in magazines such as The Knot and Destination I do, and is a favorite among southern california wedding professionals.

See more photos and the slideshow!

See photos from Lara and Tim's Engagement Session!

Dance the Night Away!

2009-10-03T10:48:00.000-07:00

We are happy to bring back our Dance Floor promotion just in time for Fall and Winter. Book with us by December 1 and the Dance Floor Fee is waved (a $300 value). Enjoy warm evenings and crisp nights on the marina on our tented pool patio (yes, we can heat it if it is a bit too crisp), or a cozy dinner this winter in our Fireside-Epicurean room with a beautiful working fireplace. Call or email us for more information and let us take care of every detail.

Congratulations to Laura and David!

2009-08-28T14:12:00.000-07:00

After a slow start, Wedding Season is finally picking up here at CYC! This is not unusual, as we have our best weather in late summer and early fall. Just last weekend we had 3 weddings in 2 days, and several others scattered throughout the month.

A few weekends ago, Laura and David had their wedding reception in our Fireside-Epicurean room. So many of our events use the traditional nautical colors of Navy Blue and White, so we were excited when this couple choose a sage green and white color scheme. Even their cake was green!

Laura and David decided to treat their guest to a Specialty Coffee Station, brewing cappuccino's, lattes and espresso with just the touch of a button! Instead of table numbers, guests were assigned to tables named after places Laura and David had traveled together including Las Vegas and Disneyworld. For wedding favors, their guests received pretty candles in green and white drawstring bags.

Congratulations Laura and David!

Daisy of Love Part II

2009-08-08T10:24:00.000-07:00

Much thanks to Krista of Transition Photography for allowing us to share these great photos from Lisa and Jerry's wedding this past June. We've already shared a few photos from this wedding with you, but here's a more intimate look at Lisa and Jerry's ceremony and reception. (Don't forget to click on the pic's for a better look!)

Welcome Back Zac!

2009-07-31T11:33:00.000-07:00

(click the picture for a larger photo)

Zac Sunderland left Marina del Rey last June when he was 16, and returned on July 16, 2009 at 10:30am at the age of 17. This makes him the youngest person ever to sail around the globe, solo. I have been an avid blog reader: one day more exciting then the next! You can read about his excellent adventure on his blog.

Recently, I was privileged enough to help escort Zac in the last few minutes of his incredible journey around the world in his 36' Sailboat, Intrepid.

There were a Regatta of boats to escort him: from kayaks to the Coast Guard boat that doused the Marina in water and sirens to our little Jr. Program Wailer. You could feel the excitement in the Marina as he rounded the breakwater and headed to the 1000 or so people gathered at Fisherman's Village. People were packed onto the bike path cheering, boats and cars alike were blowing their horns. It is such a special achievement for this young man from Thousand Oaks who grew up sailing. Click on the links below for coverage of this historic event from around the web:

Teen becomes the youngest to sail around the world solo - CNN
Teen sailor youngest to Circle globe Alone - KTLA

Welcome back Zac from CYC!!

Lorri

Spring into Summer - Extended Summer Promotion!

2009-07-30T15:06:00.000-07:00

We have extended our spring promotion until the last day of summer (the Equinox), which is September 21, 2009. Book your event before this date, and our Dance Floor fee of $300.00 will be waived, regardless of your event date!

As you may already know, late summer and fall is warm and glorious here in the Marina - perhaps our best weather all year! Warm days, crisp and mild nights are perfect for weddings, rehearsal dinners, showers, birthday parties - you name it! Clear skies boast stars at night and beautiful sunsets in the late afternoon.

Having a corporate event? All of the CYC banquet rooms feature an outdoor patio for al fresco dining and complimentary Internet access.

Fun Fact: the word "equinox" is derived from the Latin aequss (equal) and nox (night) because the day and night are equally long. An Equinox occurs twice a year, when the tilt of the earth's access is neither away nor towards the sun. It usually signifies the beginning of Spring or Autumn.

Happy 1st Birthday, Samantha!

2009-07-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

At CYC, we're not only about weddings and corporate retreats - we're here for kids too! From pirate-themed birthday parties to the club's own Jr. Sailing program, we do events for all ages.

Just last weekend we did a birthday party for little Samantha. With an Elmo bounce house on the Fireside patio, cupcake party favors, the Wiggles centerpieces and kid themed duet group, the Fireside room served as the setting for this small get together of family and friends.

We even offer special kid's menus with both plated and buffet options. We can arrange for all your kid's favorites like Mac n' Cheese, Fries, Chicken fingers, Grilled Cheese, Ice Cream Sundae stations and much more!

See pictures from Samantha's 1st Birthday celebration below!

Old World Romance on the Marina

2009-07-24T12:10:00.000-07:00

The great thing about summer is the many outdoor events that this warm weather allows us to have. It is always fun to plan receptions and other events on our Pool Patio. This last wedding has allowed us the privilege of creating one of our most elaborate tents yet!

Throughout the past year, Michelle and Doug have been planning a classic style wedding that would consist of both old world romantic elements and a love for the ocean. Using golden colors like sand and champagne, highlighted with tones of soft peach, pink and warm honey, they created a delicate and romantic color scheme. Their use of pearlized sea shells, candles, and many floral arrangements perfectly accented the theme.

For the tent, we called in our most trusted Pico Party Rents, who came in and covered the patio with black Astroturf, put up the tent structure, hung can lighting, draped the interior with delicate lining, and hung two handmade chandeliers. It took almost 8 hours to complete the job!

In the end, the result was breathtaking! Throughout the weekend many club members and visitors stopped by to gawk at the tent. Michelle and Doug were very happy that all the preparation and planning had paid off.

Many other details helped to make this a special event - From the Chuppah, to the special "Ginger Limeade" Cocktail.... We couldn't be more honored that this couple chose CYC for their big day. Congratulations Michelle and Doug!

Vendors
Florist: Blooming Designs
Photography: Amy Williams Photography
Entertainment: Red Shoe LA (DJ), Rossi Music (Ceremony)
Cake: Hansen Cakes
Videographer: Kolkey Productions

Congratulations Julie and Paul!

2009-07-24T10:54:00.000-07:00

Julie and Paul's wedding was a last minute surprise! The couple had originally planned to get married at their newly purchased home, but when escrow didn't close on time, they called us with just one week to prepare for their 4th of July weekend ceremony and reception.

The week flew by in whirlwind - arranging for a cake, floral arrangements, and a tent for 200 people! We are happy to say that despite the hectic situation, everything turned out great and the Bride and Groom were very pleased.

Traditionally, we're used to seeing only the bride in white, but Julie and Paul asked all their guests to wear white, which gave the wedding a laid back feel that suited the marina setting perfectly.

Adding to the excitement, word buzzed around the club that we had a few Celebrities and VIP's in attendance, thanks to Paul, who's been on shows like Entourage, The Wire, and In Plain Sight.

See the pic's from this exciting wedding below!

VENDORS
Cake: Hansen Cakes
Florist: Accent on Design
Videographer: Kolkey Productions

Daisy of Love

2009-06-25T15:18:00.000-07:00

We are excited to share photos from a recent wedding here at the club! The great thing about Lisa and Jerry's wedding was that it was budget friendly, fun and a little risky. From their ceremony music to the theme and decor, they really let their personality as a couple shine through.

One neat aspect was the focus on the Gerber daisy - spotted across their cake, lining the aisles of the ceremony, used as centerpieces on every table - the hot pink daisy was the central theme of the wedding. To top it off, each guest received a packet of wild flower seeds as a wedding favor!

Adding more fun to the wedding was the bride and groom's choice of processional and recessional music. The bridal party marched to "A Crazy Little Thing Called Love," while the bride was given away to "You Are So Beautiful To Me." The ceremony ended with James Brown's "I Feel Good!" They even provided their guests with rose petals to toss in celebration of their nuptials.

The bride and groom saved money where they could, cutting costs by buying candles and vases in bulk at IKEA. Using their home computer, they made their own signage for the bar and guest tables. They also ordered personalized stickers that were used to decorate candle holders and other accents.

This wedding was a lot of fun to help put together and a perfect wedding to kick off our summer season. Congratulations to the happy couple, Lisa and Jerry!

A JOYous Wedding!

2009-06-18T11:58:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back we posted photos from Joy and Ryan's spring wedding. Now, we've got even more photos of this JOYous occasion to share, courtesy of Bob Young Photography.

Hot Pink Bat Mitzvah and a Martha's Vineyard Wedding Kick-off!

2009-06-14T14:08:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, we had two really fun, celebratory events. The first was a "wedding kick-off" party - the parent's of the groom hosted a thank you and appreciation dinner for guests who would be joining the family for the destination wedding at Martha's Vineyard.

This was our first time seeing such an event here at CYC, but it was very creative and fun to plan. The host set maps of the vineyard as place mats, and created a very festive centerpiece with sea shells, a miniature lighthouse and fake lobsters to get guests ready to travel. There were bowls of saltwater taffy and mixed nuts to munch on before the big "surf and turf" dinner of petite filet and lobster tail. Each of the guests were given a goody bag to take home.

The second event was a bat mitzvah that was full of color and a lot of fun. The event colors were hot pink and chocolate brown. There was pink, pink and more pink everywhere! The Bat Mitzvah girl, Eliza, treated her guests to an airbrush artist and a build-your-own Ice Cream Sundae Station. While the adults had plated meals of chicken, steak and fish and drank cocktails on the patio, the kids had a buffet of cheeseburgers, chicken strips and grilled cheese sandwiches followed by non-stop movin' and groovin' on the dancefloor.

It was a busy weekend, but a great sign of the spectacular events that we have to look forward to this summer! Check back to see more CYC event photos, coming soon!

A Bit of Club History: Part II

2009-06-13T13:44:00.000-07:00

In 1941, America joined WWII and California Yacht Club's facilities, in Wilmington, CA, were taken over by the U.S. Coast Guard. As the war continued, CYC members continued to fly the clubs burgee, but when the war ended the club's facilities were too rundown to use.

As members began looking for a new venue, they were increasingly encouraged with the development of Marina del Rey, one of the nations largest man made harbors. They reactivated the club in 1961. "Fritz" Overton, who acted as the clubs commodore back in 1923, was reelected as the first commodore of CYC's new era. 100 club members were recorded in the first year.

On September 22, 1963, the club moved into new quarters at the Sheraton Marina del Rey Hotel. A full schedule of events was established including the Sunset Series - the largest continual sailboat regatta in the world, which continues to this day.

On October 1, 1966, CYC saw the great move to the exciting and beautiful new clubhouse. An armada of the club's fleet moved into the 230 slips at the present site at the head of Marina del Rey's main channel. The Completed new facilities were formally dedicated on June 10, 1967.

Today we have several programs and internal organizations that continue to expand our club's impressive history. From our Junior Program, Epicurean Society and Women's Association which have been around for years, to our newer "Bookmates" book club and "At the Helm" business dinner.

Come See Us at the The BrideWorld Expo!

2009-06-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

On July 11 and 12, CYCater, along with our sister club, The Los Angles Athletic Club, will be participating in the BrideWorld Expo at the L.A. Convention Center!

For just $10, it is a great opportunity to future brides, grooms, and their friends and family to come meet us, learn about California Yacht Club weddings, and meet other industry experts and local vendors.

It's going to be a weekend of fun! There will be a bridal fashion show, a wedding planning seminar, prizes, and lots of free stuff!

Plus, if you schedule a consultation with the CYCater office in the next few weeks, we'll give you a complimentary pass to the expo, good for the admission of up to five people!

We hope to see you there!

A Bit of Club History: Part I

2009-05-28T15:28:00.000-07:00

Our Club has a very interesting history -

It all started in 1922 by members of the Los Angeles Athletic Club (our sister club to this day). California Yacht Club was situated in Wilmington Harbor and our members enjoyed many successful races and were foremost in yacht building for the day.

The walls and display cases here at CYC show a wealth of history of Yachtsmanship that rivals any on the west coast. One of the grandest trophies is our King of Spain trophy brought to the club circa 1929 when King Alfonzo XIII brought it himself, as he was a formidable Yachtsman in his own right.

When the United States officially entered World War II, after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the Coast Guard took over the club house. So, how did we end up in Marina del Rey?

You will have to tune in next week to find out!

CYC Rockin' Mixer 2009

2009-05-28T10:29:00.000-07:00

This past March, we got together with a few of our favorite vendors to host an industry mixer here at the club. Our kitchen staff came up with some very creative Hors D'oeuvre displays and fancy cocktails, while our industry pals got together to coordinate beautiful floral arrangements and decor, specialty linens, fine china, and an extraordinary tent display to make our venue look absolutely fantastic! To top things off we ended the night with a complimentary cruise around the harbor!

Wedding planners, photographers, sales directors, caterers and several other special event industry insiders were in attendance- networking, catching up with old friends and making new acquaintances. It was certainly a night to remember!

Those who contributed to this wonderful event, we cannot thank enough! Christie the Store, Chef Donald Wressell, Hornblower Cruises & Events, Pico Party Rents, Hansen Cakes, Designer Specialty Linens, Accent on Design, Classic Party Rentals, Albert Postel....your generosity is much appreciated!

A Wedding without Worries

2009-05-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

No one likes to think about it. Many simply pretend that it wont happen to them. But, the truth is, SOMETHING MAY GO WRONG on your big day! Now that you've accepted that reality, there is something you can do about it - get insured!

Many venues, including California Yacht Club, require some sort of liability and property damage insurance. But, did you know that you can also get insured for event cancellation/postponement, gifts, photography, jewelry and other special event related details? After all the time, planning and money that you've invested in your big day, protecting your event and yourself is the smart thing to do.

At CYC, we recommend WedSafe and Private Event Insurance. You can get an instant quote online and receive your certificate in minutes by email. They offer 10 levels of coverage, up to $175,00 to match your wedding budget, and can include your rehearsal dinner, ceremony and reception. The best part is - you can get a great rate at less than $200. That's it!

We've got plenty more information on insurance for your big day, so the next time you're at the club stop in and ask how you can protect your event!

Wedding Luau!

2009-05-06T14:21:00.000-07:00

California Yacht Club:
The name evokes, stately yachts, formal ceremonies and well...maybe some stuffiness...nothing could be further from the truth! CYC has a casual, classic, nautical sort of ambiance. Our prices are a lot lower than you might think and your day can be as formal or informal as you like.

Check out a few photos from Jeanne and Greg's wedding last August. The men donned Hawaiian shirts and leis, the sweetheart table was adorned with tropical orchids and candles. The ceremony site was sprinkled with rose petals and our famous Seafood Buffet satisfied even the hungriest guest! Call us for an appointment and we can put together a custom package that will
be within your budget.....

Seafood Buffet

Sunset Views

Yummy Wedding Cake

Fireside Room

Lets do Lunch!

2009-05-03T11:49:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed that lunchtime events have become very popular and quite chic in the past year. Daytime wedding receptions, lunch clubs, and Sunday Brunches... one of the biggest trends we've seen is hosting a lunch.

There are quite a few benefits to hosting a lunch here at the club - warm weather with a crisp ocean breeze, families out on their yachts and sailors racing in our many regattas, a more budget friendly food & beverage minimum, and a spectacular California coastal view!

Did you know that each of our banquet rooms have an outdoor patio? With Summer quickly approaching what could be better than dining al fresco on the marina? From a light chicken salad to a full champagne brunch, we do it all. And, it works for any occasion:

Baby Showers

Birthday Parties (Both Kids and Adults)

Traditional Afternoon Tea Parties

Wedding Receptions

Business Luncheons

Bridal Shower

Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties

Retirement Parties

Anniversaries

Cocktail Parties

High School/College Graduation

Dessert & Champagne Receptions

Retreats

We look forward to doing lunch with you!

Get Wedding Planning Tips on Your IPod

2009-05-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

Having a wedding planner is great - it makes planning your wedding just a little easier and much less stressful. But, in this tough economy paying a extra fee for a wedding planner might be out of the question for some.

In the CYC Catering Office we love helping you find the perfect resources for your big day. Our preferred vendor list is handy for finding great bands and DJ's, florists, photographers and much more.

But thenthere are some other details, like dress fittings and honey moon arrangements. That's where these helpful wedding planning Podcasts come in handy. If you have an Ipod or Itunes, then you already know how great Podcasts are. Just download them to your Ipod, and listen to insider info on all your favorite TV Shows, books, music and now your wedding!

Try Wedding Podcast Network and Wedding Planning Audiocast for starters. And, more helpful hints, fun games and wedding trivia visit the Sugar Network.

Our Top Wedding Movie Picks

2009-05-02T11:33:00.000-07:00

This past Tuesday, Bride Wars starring Kate Hudson and Anne Hathaway, was released on DVD and right on time for wedding season! This fun movie got us thinking of some other classic wedding movies to get you pumped up and in the mood for the season.

If you're not getting married this summer, you're likely to be in the bridal party or invited as a guest. So call up your girlfriends, sisters, or your fiance and make it a movie night with these awesome films:

Father of the Bride
27 Dresses
The Wedding Planner
What Happens In Vegas
Made of Honor
Cake
Steel Magnolias
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
The Wedding Crashers
The Wedding Date
Bride and Prejudice
My Best Friend's Wedding
The Wedding Singer

Weddings, Weddings, Everywhere!

2009-04-24T10:37:00.000-07:00

Spring officially marks the start of Wedding Season! All around, you will find invitations to bridal and trunk shows, gift registry incentives, endless lists of topnotch wedding coordinators and caterers. At times it can be downright overwhelming!

Here at the CYC Catering office, we have rounded up some great online resources to help you keep your head straight. Play fun wedding trivia, get advice for dealing with unmanageable bridesmaids and get budget planning tips on the Sugar Network, or print out time lines, fun menus and recipes, and a reception play list at Daily Candy Weddings. And, this weekend the Image section of the LA Times has some great articles on varying wedding topics, from gowns to styling on a budget.

Your destination for unlimited wedding and event resources, CYCater is here to help!

CYC Spring Promotion

2009-04-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

It's Springtime! What better time to plan for your new beginning? As a spring special, we are waiving the cost of the dance floor (a $300.00 value) when you book your wedding or other celebration by the last day of spring, June 20, 2009.....regardless of your booking date!

In addition, did you know that when you order a buffet or 3-course meal, you can order a cake from Hansen's or Mayer's bakery as dessert at no extra charge? Really! Wedding cake, birthday cake, or any other celebratory cake - we've got it covered!

Don't miss out on these deals! Call and book your next event today!

Spring Wedding on the Marina

2009-04-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Joy and Ryan, the fabulous couple who took their vows on the CYC front Lawn this past weekend.
With grassy centerpieces, a mahogany and navy blue color scheme, and the marina as a back drop, this couple evoked the spring spirit for their ceremony and reception and everything came out marvelous!
Check out a few pics we snapped with the CYC digi-cam:

Cake: Hansen's Bakery

Floral: Renee Fontana

Day-of Coordination: Simply Natural Events

Linens: Designer Specialty Linens

Welcome to the CYCater Blog!

2009-04-11T15:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by and checking out the CYCater blog, the official blog of the California Yacht Club Catering and Banquets Department!

Check back for the latest CYC info, tidbits about upcoming events, wedding trends, event advice, and lots and lots of exclusive event photos!