Wedding & Party Magazine

2 • Wedding & Party • 2010 • Central Coast 20th Anniversary Edition www.weddingandpartymag.com

Central Coast 20th Anniversary Edition • 2010 • Wedding & Party • 3www.weddingandpartymag.com


Wedding & Party Magazine is Published Annually byNiche Pub l ish ing Company, 12160 Mt . Ba ldy Dr. ,Colorado Springs, CO 80921 719-265-1825. Bill Cory, Pub-lisher. Email: [email protected]/Distribution Information: Joe LaBarbera, Indepen-dent Sales Representative, 805-773-0860

Contents © Copyright 2010 by Niche Publishing Co. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be re pro duced for commercial use without written permission from the publisher. Copyrights of photographers whose images are included are the property of the photographers named.

In the twenty years since the fi rst edition of this magazine, some things have changed in the wedding world. At least superfi cially.

But, have weddings, themselves, really changed?

Bridal gowns have become more revealing and more closely fi tted to the bride’s shape. Th e necklines have dropped some, but the hemlines are about the same as they were twenty years ago. Th e gowns aren’t as full as they once were. Bridesmaids’ dresses have followed suit.

But, fl owers aren’t much diff erent. Men’s attire has changed little. Weddings are still done in the basic way they once were. Tradition and religious standards have kept them pretty standard.

A dad or favorite male relative or friend still gives the Bride away. Th ere are rings, vows, a candle lighting (or the more recent sand pouring), communion in some services, prayer, music, a fi rst kiss, and then a reception party.

Receptions have changed only slightly: Th ey still feature great food, beautiful cakes, music, adult beverages, toasts, dancing, fun. Th e biggest change has been the removal of the receiving line, caused by the high hourly cost of banquet room rentals.

Photography and video have changed: All digital and more free-wheeling than before.

Th e thing that has not changed at all is that the wedding is merely one more step toward a marriage.

So, enjoy all of it, including the planning steps described here!

8 Choosing The Reception Lo ca tion

10 Map and Venue Location Index

12 Event Location Directory

21 Advertiser Index

22 Your Wedding Day Information Page

26 Getting The Most From Bridal Fairs

27 A Friday Wedding?

28 An Easy, Quick Ceremony Rehearsal

30 A Stress-Free Reception!

Member, San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce

Generalities

... More Contents >>

32 • Choosing Professional Wedding Services

34 • Wedding Day Apparel

36 • Catering

40 • Your Wedding Cakes

44 • Looking Your Best

46 • Coordinators, Consultants &

Event Designers

48 • Flowers For Your Wedding day

54 • Invitations

56 • Ceremony Music

58 • Reception Music & Entertainment

62 • Offi ciants

64 • Professional Wedding Photography

72 • Professional Videography

74 • Ceremony & Reception Rentals

76 • Brideʼs Attendants

78 • Groomʼs Attendants

80 • Transportation

Cover Photo by Michelle WarrenMichelle Warren began her career

photographing weddings and families after graduating from Brooks Institute of Photography in 2003. With this valuable education she acquired an exceptionally high standard for quality and beautiful imagery. Her photography style is simply timeless. She utilizes both digital and fi lm mediums and you will rarely fi nd her working with less than a half dozen cameras. Michelle travels throughout the state of California and has been hired to capture destination weddings as far as Canada, Mexico and Costa Rica.

A Few Details


Choosing TheReceptionLocation

A wedding reception A wedding reception A starts with the location. Everything starts with the location. Everything startsgrows out of the character and feel of it. Classy or casual, modern or rustic, large or small, etc. And the ambiance

of the location will be further aff ected by the time your reception occurs. Evening receptions can be given a more intimate feeling in the same location simply by lighting choices. Th e same can be accomplished in a closed hotel ballroom.

Your Guest ListWho will be attending your reception? Will they have very much

in common besides an interest in the two of you? For example, some couples’ friends are all from their church or work. Others’ guests will be drawn more from their parents’ friends.

Are your guests mostly of your parents’ generation? Or, are they your friends, your age? Th eir age range will determine a number of things: Type of music and dancing, whether you want to serve alcohol (besides champagne), and even the lateness of the party.

Your LocationAfter you know who your guests will be, you can better choose a

reception location. If your guest list has very many senior citizens, you’ll want to be sure the entrances, stairs, and fl oors are all well-marked and well-lit, which could eliminate an outdoor evening event. If your guest list contains a lot of smokers, outdoors would work better than indoors — at the least, you’d want to consider a location with an outside area where they can smoke.

Th e location should have plenty of room for your guests. Don’t push the capacity too much; it can create a crowded situation in which people won’t be able to relax and have fun.

What Happens When?Great receptions are planned. It’s that simple. With the location

selection taken care of, you still have a schedule to createTh ere are about fi ve main ceremonial activities that take place

at most receptions: Th e cake cutting, toast, fi rst dance, garter throw, and bouquet toss. Some couples don’t do the garter. And, some Brides keep their bouquet. See page 30 for details.

© COLLEEN ROSENTHAL PHOTOGRAPHY, AD PAGE 23

© STUDIO 101 WEST, AD PAGE 68

© MICHELLE WARREN PHOTOGRAPHY, AD PAGE 7

© WHITE WOLF PHOTOGRAPHY, AD PAGE 71


10 • Wedding & Party • 2010 • Central Coast 20th Anniversary Edition

Reception & Ceremony Venues Described on pages 14–20 NAME (Advertisers in Bold Italic) ..... City ............................... Listing ........Ad page page

NAME (Advertisers in Bold Italic) .....City ................................Listing ........Ad page pageApple Farm .......................................San Luis Obispo ............14 .............. 24Avila Bay Athletic Club & Spa ............Avila Beach ...................14Avila Beach Community Center .........Avila Beach Community Center .........Avila Beach Community Center Avila Beach ...................14Avila Beach Golf Resort ....................Avila Beach ..................14 Avila Lighthouse Suites ..................Avila Beach ...................14 ................ 3Blacklake Golf Resort ........................Nipomo ..........................14Cambria Pines Lodge .....................Cambria ........................14 ............. 20Camp San Luis Obispo Chapel .........Highway 1 ......................14 Camp SLO Officer’s Club .................Highway 1 ......................14 Carlton Hotel ......................................Atascadero ....................14Centennial Banquet Room ................Paso Robles ..................14 Cliffs Resort at Shell Beach ............Shell Beach ...................14 ...... Back CoverCorbett Vineyards ..............................Arroyo Grande ...............14Courtyard Marriott ...........................Courtyard Marriott ...........................Courtyard Marriott San Luis Obispo ............14 ................ 9 Dana-Powers House .......................Nipomo .........................16 ............... 9Eagle Castle Winery ........................Eagle Castle Winery ........................Eagle Castle Winery Paso Robles ..................16 .............. 18Edna Valley Vineyard .....................San Luis Obispo ............16 .............. 17Embassy Suites Hotel ......................San Luis Obispo ...........16 EOS Estate Winery ............................Paso Robles ..................16F. McLintocks ..................................Shell Beach ...................16 .............. 15Giuseppe’s Cucina Italiana ................Pismo Beach .................16 Harmony Reception Hall ....................Harmony ........................16Hummingbird House ..........................Templeton ......................16Inn at Morro Bay (The) ...................Morro Bay .....................16 ............. 25Jack House (The) ..............................San Luis Obispo ............16Kaleidoscope Inn (The) ....................Nipomo .........................16La Perla Del Mar ...............................La Perla Del Mar ...............................La Perla Del Mar Shell Beach ...................16 .............. 18Madonna Inn ...................................San Luis Obispo ............16 ............. 11Meridian Vineyards ............................Paso Robles ..................16Monarch Club at Trilogy Resort .........Nipomo ..........................18Monday Club .....................................San Luis Obispo ............18 Morro Bay Community Center ...........Morro Bay Community Center ...........Morro Bay Community Center Morro Bay ......................18 Morro Bay Golf Course ......................Morro Bay ......................18 Old Mission Church ...........................San Luis Obispo ............18

Old Santa Rosa Chapel .....................Cambria .........................18 Paso Robles Golf Club .....................Paso Robles .................18 Paso Robles Hot Springs Spa ...........Paso Robles ..................18Paso Robles Inn ...............................Paso Robles ..................19 ................ 3Pavilion at Cypress Ridge ..............Arroyo Grande ...............19 .............. 31Pavilion on the Lake ..........................Atascadero ...................19 Pismo Beach Golf Course .................Pismo Beach .................19Pismo Lighthouse Suites ...................Pismo Beach .................19Rancho Llano de los Robles ..............Paso Robles ..................19Robert Hall Winery ............................Paso Robles ..................19Robin’s Restaurant ............................Cambria .........................19Rose’s Landing ..................................Morro Bay ......................19San Luis Obispo Country Club ......Edna Valley ...................19 ...... Ins Back CvrSanta Barbara Co Fairgrounds ..........Santa Maria ...................19Santa Margarita Ranch ......................Santa Margarita .............19Sea Crest Resort Motel .....................Pismo Beach .................19Sea Pines Golf Resort .......................Los Osos .......................19Sea Venture Resort ..........................Pismo Beach ................19Shelter Cove Lodge .........................Pismo Beach .................20 ................ 3Shorecliff Lodge ..............................Pismo Beach .................20 ................ 3South Bay Community Center ...........South Bay Community Center ...........South Bay Community Center Los Osos .......................20 South County Historical Society ........Arroyo Grande ...............20 South County Regional Center ..........South County Regional Center ..........South County Regional Center Arroyo Grande ...............20 Spyglass Inn Restaurant ..................Shell Beach ..................20Steamers of Pismo ..........................Pismo Beach .................20 .............. 15Sunrise Ranch Celebrations ............Paso Robles .................20Swallow Creek Ranch .......................Cayucos ........................21Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort Avila Beach Rd .............21 ............. 25The Gardens at Peacock Farms .....Arroyo Grande ...............21 .............. 13Tiger’s Folly II Harbor Cruise ............Morro Bay .....................21 Twin Oaks Estate ...............................San Miguel ....................21Victorian Pitkin Conrow Estate ......Arroyo Grande ..............21 .............. 17Villa Toscana .....................................Paso Robles ..................21Weddings on the Bay (Back Bay Inn)Baywood Park ...............21


EventLocationDirectory

Listed on the next few pages are many of the fi nest reception venues on the Central Coast. Entries are listed alphabetically by name. (Re-member to look for the few whose name starts with “Th e.”)

In for ma tion here was pro vid ed by the lo ca tions listed. Call them be-fore visiting to set a tour time and for up dat ed de tails. Most churches in our cov er age area have re quest ed that we not list them because they not list them because they notserve mem bers only. Please see the Yel low Pages of the phone book un-der Churches, Temples, Synagogues, etc. (Certain historical churches and private chapels are listed here.)

Seasonal Differences: If possible, visit the ceremony and reception location of your choice at the same time of day as your cer e mo ny will be. Also consider seasonal sunlight and time changes; these will strong- ly aff ect the appearance of the site, and therefore your photography and videography.

ALL AREA CODES ARE (805) UNLESS

OTHERWISE NOTED

San Luis Obispo County andNorth Santa Barbara County


© TUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY, AD PAGE 68


continued

Alphabetical Listing

APPLE FARM, 2015 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, 93401; 544-0713. Cer e mo nies: This regionally famous restaurant offers numerous lo ca -tions on the grounds for smaller wedding ceremonies. Gift shops, sev er al dining rooms and many outdoor locations offer several possibilities also for rehearsal dinners or any gathering. Best spot in the county for a brunch the day after the cer e mo ny. (www.applefarm.com) (See ad page 24.)

AVILA BEACH GOLF RESORT, on the Golf Course, Avila Beach; (P.O. Box 2140, Avila Beach, 93424); 540-3214. Cer e mo nies: Outdoors over look ing Pa cif ic Ocean, only avail able if re cep tion is also held there. Re cep tions: Indoors (ca pac i ty 150 din ing), out doors “un der the bigtop,” (cap to 1,000), and in the Patio Tent (cap. 100). Tents ful ly lit and heat ed when nec es sary. (www.avilabeachresort.com)

AVILA BEACH COMMUNITY CENTER, 191 San Miguel St., Avila Beach; (P.O. Box 154, Avila Beach, 93424); 627-1997. Newly renovated beach-front facility. Cer e mo nies and Receptions: May be held in the Banquet Room (cap. 150). Hardwood floors, flexible lighting, views of the town and easy access. Perfect location for your on-the-beach ceremony and indoor reception. Newly remodeled warming kitchen and restrooms; fully handicapped accessible.

AVILA BAY ATHLETIC CLUB & SPA, 6699 Bay Laurel Pl., Avila Beach, 93424; 595-7600, ext 103. Cer e mo nies and Receptions: Three areas and rooms: The Garden Area (Cap. 100), the Cabana Area (cap. 100) and the Group Meeting Room (cap. 90) may be used for special events, par-ties, receptions, ceremonies, etc. Call Leslie for more information:

AVILA LIGHTHOUSE SUITES, 550 Front Street, Avila Beach, 93424; 627-1900 ext. 301, 1-800-372-8452. All-suite oceanfront hotel, 54 ocean-view suites. Ceremonies: Held on groomed beachfront or the glass-sheltered Sun Deck, each with capacity of up to 120. Receptions: Indoor banquet capacity for up to 120 people with customized wedding packages to enhance every detail. Hotel accommodations available. (www.avilalight-housesuites.com) (See ad page 3.)

CAMBRIA PINES LODGE, 2905 Bur ton Dr., Cambria, 93428; 927-4200. A qual i ty lodge with full services and a cozy, friendly at mo sphere, nestled in the pic tur esque hills of Cambria. Cer e mo nies may be held in the Gar-den at the ga ze bo; ad di tion al fee. Re cep tions: In door and out door: The Pea cock Room (ca pac i ty 250 with avail able dance floor) may be divided; full bar avail able. Out doors, the Garden Lawn (cap 200) and covered band stand al low room for music and danc ing. De pos it re quired is fee for half-day rent al of Peacock Room or Gar den, plus fee for Ga ze bo rent al if ap pli ca ble. Ca ter ing costs are ad di tion al. (www.cambriapineslodge.com)(See ad page 20.)

CAMP SAN LUIS OBISPO CHAPEL, on Camp San Luis Obispo, off SR1, about 5 miles north of town. (Mail: PO Box 4360, SLO, CA 93403). 541-6168, ask for Chap el Wed ding Res er va tions. A country-style chapel seat ing 300; sur round ed by lawn area with shade trees. Dressing area for Bride. Street park ing. Provide your own pas tors, all ser vic es and clean up. Small fee, no de pos it re quired. No usage time-limit. Sun day and week day ser vic es okay.

CAMP SAN LUIS OBISPO OFFICER’S CLUB, on Camp SLO, off Pa cif ic Coast High way (SR1) about 5 miles north of San Luis Obispo; (PO Box 4360, SLO 93403); 541-6168. Ceremonies and Re cep tions: Large, ex- pan sive ball room with stage; car pet ed en try room with fire place and easy chairs, and wide covered porch. No-host, full-ser vice bar. Com mer cial kitchen. Hall ca pac i ty 300 dining. Res er va tion/se cu ri ty de pos it required. Large park ing area. Se cu ri ty guards may be required.

CARLTON HOTEL, 6005 El Camino Real., Atascadero, 93422; 461-5100. Full-service hotel built in 1929 and completely restored in 2004. The re-fined architecture and inviting spaces can give your celebration an elegant touch. Ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners are held in Ambrosia banquet room (cap. 90), or the Courtyard (cap. 40) or the diVine lounge (cap. 40). Restaurant and full bar on site. Call the banquet coordinator for a tour and more information. (www.the-carlton.com)

CENTENNIAL BANQUET ROOM, 600 Nickerson Dr., Paso Robles, (Call Com mu ni ty Svcs/Rec Dept., 237-3991). Re cep tions: In Centennial Room, max. ca pac i ty 300 (fewer for din ing). Full commercial kitch en and large BBQ grill. Large room may be divided in half, ad di tion al rooms avail-able. Large patio. Fees are by the hour. A set of reg u la tions will be mailed to you on re quest to above number.

CLIFFS RESORT, THE, 2757 Shell Beach Rd., Pismo Beach, 93449; 773-5000; fax 773-0764. Full-service oceanfront resort hotel. The Cliffs Platinum Coastal Ceremonies: held on the ocean-view lawn. Receptions are held in the Grand Ballroom (cap. 270) or the ocean view white canopy tent, which seats 500. (www.cliffsresort.com) (See ad on back cover.)

BLACKLAKE GOLF RESORT, 1490 Golf Course Lane, Nipomo, 93444; 540-3214. Ceremonies and receptions are held in the Indoor banquet room (cap 150), on the patio (cap 70), and at the First Tee (cap 150). Manicured 27-hole golf course setting. Full services provided. Newly renovated ban-quet room, full meal menu.

COURTYARD MARRIOTT, 1605 Calle San Joaquin Rd., San Luis Obispo; 786-4200; fax 786-4210. Full-service hotel. Three facilities for Recep-tions: The Convention Space (cap. 200), the Irish Hill room (cap. 40), and the Boardroom (cap. 16), are all available for receptions, rehearsal dinners, and parties. Call 602-9010, ext. 510 to arrange a tour. (www.Mar-riott.com/SBPCY) (See ad page 9.)

CORBETT VINEYARDS, 2195 Corbett Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande, 93420; 540-3214.;This well-known vineyard has an event lawn with seat-ing capacity of 400. Nestled in the hills of Edna Valley, the Tuscan-style architecture frames a secluded event venue.


DANA-POWERS HOUSE, 535 Mehlschau Road, Nipomo, 93444; 929-3939; ask for Judith Dana-Powers. Beautifully re stored Vic to ri an home is lo cat ed amid or chards near the foot hills just north of Nipomo, 2 miles from US101. Cer e mo nies are held in side (cap. 75; 125 with tent rent al for ad join ing patio), or out side (cap. 200) in sum mer in the Wed ding Gar den ga ze bo. Pri vate dress ing room and bath for Bridal Party. Fee in cludes re hears al time and cer e mo ny co or di na tion. Re cep tions are held out doors through out the grounds. The Barn, in a beautiful country setting, is available also for up to 200. Kitch en use and bar be cue area in clud ed. Buffet, cake and cof fee ser vice is inside, with seat ing out side on the lawn. Off-street park ing. (www.danapowershouse.com) (See ad page 9.)

EDNA VALLEY VINEYARD, 2585 Biddle Ranch Road, San Luis Obis po, 93401; 544-5855; Ceremonies/Re cep tions: Main Room over look ing the vine yard for sit-down reception up to 87; standing up to 150; Cask Room for small din ners of 18 or few er; Conference Room seats 16 and can be used for buffet. Outdoor lawn area can be tent ed (cap. 400). Ca ter ing kitch en. (www.ednavalley.com) (See ad page 17.)

HARMONY RECEPTION HALL, (Historic Town of Harmony), Old Highway One, Harmony 93435; 927-1028. Historic town off the Coast Highway just south of Cambria. The Reception Hall is part of the old Creamery. Ceremo-nies and Receptions: Held in and near the Reception Hall. Hall seats 32, but capacity can be expanded through use of the gazebo and lawns.

EMBASSY SUITES HOTEL, 333 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo, 93405; 549-0800; fax 549-9138. Full-service hotel. Cer e mo nies: may be held in the 4-sto ry atri um. Re cep tions: Main ball room ca pac i ty up to 500 for din ing and danc ing. Room may also be di vided into thirds and rent ed for full or half day. Two smaller rooms (cap. 50 dining and danc ing) are avail able for half or full days. (www. embassysuitesslo.com)

EOS ESTATE WINERY, at Arciero Vineyards, 5625 SR46 East, Paso Robles (PO Box 1179, 93447); 239-2562. Ask for manager. Tasting room, cap. 50, Barrel Room, cap. 100 , and Gar dens, cap. 250; Vineyard views, rose garden and fountain. (www.eosvintage.com)

F. MCLINTOCKS SALOON AND DINING HOUSE, 750 Mattie Rd., Shell Beach (PO Box 239, 93448); 773–3050. Full-ser vice restaurant in country garden setting; tra di tion al ranch-style cooking. Cer e mo nies: May through Oct 15, wed dings are held in the heat ed out door patio area, “Hun gry Horse Flats” (cap. 200). Re cep tions: In doors, year-round, in main res tau rant, meals are served for groups of up to 100. (www.mclintocks.com) (See ad on previous page.)

GIUSEPPE’S CUCINA ITALIANA, 891 Price St., Pismo Beach, 93449; 773-2870. Authentic Italian cuisine in a private banquet facility; capacity up to 60 in doors. The pri vate Garden Patio (70-plus outside) provides a charming Old World Ital ian set ting for intimate ceremonies, rehearsal din ners and receptions. (www.giuseppesrestaurant.com)

JACK HOUSE, 536 Marsh St., San Luis Obispo. Op er ated by City of San Luis Obis po; 781-7303. Season is early May to late October. Out doors only. Cer e mo nies are held on the lawn at the white ga ze bo. Re cep tions:Buf fet din ing (cap 250). Full-day rent al for cer e mo ny and re cep tion, or for re cep tion only, in cludes use of entire facility. Fee for re hears al. Ta bles and chairs available. Dam age and key de pos it re quired. Fa cil ity avail able Fri., Sat., Sun. only. Al co hol okay with SLO city per mit. Security, in sur ance re quired.

LA PERLA DEL MAR CHAPEL, 205 Windward, Shell Beach, 93449 (PO Box 3066, Shell Beach, 93448); (805) 773-5608. Restored chapel, school house, patio and garden. Ceremonies and receptions: Held inside the open-floor chapel, (banquet seating cap. 100), the School House (cap. 35), and the Patio (cap. 50). Mission-style chapel with stained glass and old-world charm, only steps from the beach and Margot Dodd Park. Chairs or pews, barbecue area, small service kitchen, raised 30’x20’ stage for band, DJ or dance floor. Theatrical lighting and sound. Lodging available. ADA compliant. (www.laperladelmarchapel.com) (See ad page 18.)

HUMMINGBIRD HOUSE, PO Box 1604, Templeton, 93465; 226-8575 (Daniella Sapriel). Private setting in the hills near Templeton. Cer e mo nies and Receptions are held on the shores of a landscaped pond. Dressing room, caterer’s kitchen and two guest bathrooms provided. Guest accom-modations available. (www.hummingbirdhouse.org)

INN AT MORRO BAY,INN AT MORRO BAY,INN AT MORRO BAY off Main, on the Bay. Mail ad dress: Inn at Morro Bay, Morro Bay State Park, Morro Bay, 93442; 772-5748; fax 772-2082. Full-ser vice resort hotel with ex cel lent views of Mor ro Rock and Pa cif ic sun sets. Cer e mo nies are held outdoors on the Bay View Deck (cap. 200) or the Sun set Terrace (cap. 50). Re cep tions: Morro Bay Room, cap. 150; Cayucos Room, cap. 60; The Alcove, cap. 25. (Morro Bay and Cayucos Rooms con nect for parties up to 210.) Se cu ri ty may be re quired; in sur ance not re quired. Bridal Pack ag es avail able. (www.innatmorrobay.com) (See ad page 25.)

KALEIDOSCOPE INN, 130 E. Dana St., Nipomo, 93444; 929-5444. 100-year-old Vic to ri an house with two ga ze bos in a one-acre flower-filled garden set ting. Cer e mo nies: Outdoors in the gar den’s two gazebo areas; max ca pac i ty 250. Re cep tions: Out door, same ca pac i ty. Fee in cludes 4 hours’ use, plus one hour for re hears al and two hours of dressing time in pri vate upstairs dressing room. De pos it re quired.

EAGLE CASTLE WINERY, 3090 Anderson Rd., Paso Robles, 93446; EAGLE CASTLE WINERY, 3090 Anderson Rd., Paso Robles, 93446; EAGLE CASTLE WINERY227-1428, fax 227-1429. Winery with facilities modeled on European castles, with extensive banquet facilities. Ceremonies and Receptions are held at the Castle, and rentals include use of the catering kitchen and all serving equipment for up to 128 guests. The Upper East Terrace (cap 120 for reception seating) overlooks the Castle Courtyard. The Upper West Terrace (cap 120) faces the sunset. Both terraces may be com-bined. The Courtyard (cap 250) is the largest outdoor area. The Banquet room accommodates 128, and the Wine Library offers conference seating for 12. www.eaglecastlewinery.com. (See ad page 18.)

DUNE LAKES, Arroyo Grande, call Caretaker 459-7701. This event site is located above the southern dunes of San Luis Obispo County. While home to many movie and commercial photo shoot locations, Dune Lakes has never before been open to the public for weddings. Your guests will be dazzled by over 10,000 secluded acres with a gated, secure entry through California’s largest private eucalyptus grove and panoramic views over the Pacific, the dunes and the grove. (www.alltraditions.net/galler-ies/dune_lakes.php)

MADONNA INN, 100 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo, 93405; 543-3000, 1-800-543-9666; fax 543-1800. Ceremonies & Re cep tions: Three rooms plus the “Round Room”: The Wine Cellar, cap. 300 for buffet dining; The Garden Room, cap. 200 for buffet dining, (with adjacent Round Room); and, the Main Dining Room, cap. 400 for buffet dining. Danc ing music allowed only until midnight. Reservation deposit required. The Madonna Inn is a famous tourist stop in the county. Besides the ex cel lent service provided by the catering staff, it’s a collection of unique styles of interior decoration and design. (www.madonnainn.com) (See ad page 11.)

MERIDIAN VINEYARDS, 7000 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles, CA 93446; 226-7135. Ceremonies and Receptions: Three areas, the Barrel Room (cap 150), the Lower Event Lawn (cap 300) and the Tasting Room Patio (cap 100) are picturesque and charming. Call for more details or an ap-pointment for a tour. (www.meridianvineyards.com)


MONDAY CLUB, 1815 Mon terey St., San Luis Obispo, (PO Box 167, 93406); 543-9807. Cer e mo nies are held on the back lawn at the ga ze bo. Grounds fea ture a trellis-cov ered patio, lawn area and off-street parking.Re cep tions: In door and out door. Main hall (cap. 135) has stage, buffet ser vice room, com mer cial kitchen, small cov ered patio, back lawn area, and off-street park ing. Rates are based number of guests. Ad di tion al fee for kitchen. Alcohol al lowed with proper per mits. In sur ance and se cu rity personnel re quired.

MORRO BAY COM MU NITY CENTER, 1001 Kennedy Way, Mor ro Bay, 93442; 772-6278; fax 772-2693 (Mor ro Bay Recreation & Parks Dept.). Re cep tions: Main au di to ri um capacity 250 dining; may be divided in half. Ad di tion al, sep a rate rooms avail able depending on group size. En trance lounge area with couch es and plants, in cluded with auditorium. Full working kitch en and caterer’s kitch en. Fees de pend on type of organization, event, length of program, etc. Amen i ties include new sound system, round and rect an gu lar ta bles, chairs, A/V equip ment, piano, ice machine.

MORRO BAY GOLF COURSE, State Park Rd., Morro Bay State Park, Mor ro Bay, 93442; 772-4341. Ceremonies and Receptions are held in ban quet rooms over look ing the bay. Ca pac i ty 150. Will assist in arranging major services. Ca ter ing, full bar service avail able. The ban quet rooms provide sweep ing views of the bay, Morro Rock, dunes and the ocean beyond. (www.centralcoastgolf.com)

OLD MISSION CHURCH, 751 Palm St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401; 781-8220; ask for wedding coordinator. Mon–Fri 9–4. Church open to public, daily 10–5; mass es and wed dings re quire quiet re spect. This historical mis sion was built in 1772 as part of the Cal i for nia Mis sion chain; it is re stored to its orig i nal ap pear ance.Seats over 500 in two wings. Some park ing at church but limited; use the Park ing Ga rage nearby or me tered street park ing. Out side priests okay with ap prov al; call for info. Us age lim it two hours; three wed dings per Sat ur day. Re serve early. Out side or gan ists okay with ap prov al; bell ring er avail able (ex tra fee). Gar dens of fer a good set ting for pre-cer e mo ny por traits. Call SLO Chamber of Commerce (781-2777) about mall activities.

OLD SANTA ROSA CHAPEL, 2353 Main (PO Box 316) Cambria, 93428. 927-5212. Chap el open 10–3 Thu–Mon in summer; in win ter, weath er per- mit ting; call. Des ig nat ed historic site, built in 1870. A New England-style white chapel amid pines above Cambria. Seat ing for 80.

PASO ROBLES GOLF CLUB RESTAURANT, 1600 Coun try Club Dr., Paso Rob les, 93446; 238-3040. Cer e mo nies: Can be held on the cov-ered veranda over look ing the golf course, ca pac i ty 100. Re cep tions:Held in the Main room, over look ing the golf course, ca pac i ty 200 for din-ing. Con fer ence Room may be used as a changing room for the Bridal Party.

PASO ROBLES HOT SPRINGS SPA, 3725 Buena Vista Dr., Paso Robles, 93446; 238-4600. Day Spa and Lakeside Gazebo facility (cap.350) for Cer e mo nies or Receptions with Lakeside View. Dance floor avail able; Co or di na tion and plan ning assistance provided, included in rental fee.

MONARCH CLUB AT TRILOGY CENTRAL COAST, 1645 Trilogy Pkwy, Nipomo, 93444. 343-7500. Carley Consoli, Special Event & Catering Director. A new all-inclusive resort facility nestled in Nipomo’s eucalyptus tree forest. Ceremonies are held outside on spacious lawns or may be held in the larger banquet rooms. Receptions are held in five rooms varying in size from small and medium meeting rooms up to the Avila Room (cap 250), adjacent to the Monarch Dunes Golf Course, with large dance floor, views of the course, rolling hills and eucalyptus trees. A list of preferred caterers and vendors may be seen on the website: www.trilogygolfclub.com/monarchevents/.


PAVILION at CYPRESS RIDGE, 1050 Cypress Ridge Parkway, Arroyo Grande, 90420; 489-2781. Lakeside facility with view of Golf Course and Black Lake. Full catering kitchen, reception coordination assistance available, fireplaces in facilities. Capacity is from small to groups to 200 or more. Call for details and appointment for interview. (www.cypressridge-pavilion.com) (See ad page 31.)

PASO ROBLES INN, 1103 Spring Street, Paso Robles, 93446; 238-2660, 800-676-1713. Historic hotel, with 98 rooms available including Deluxe Spa rooms featuring therapeutic mineral spas on private balconies. Cer-emonies: The Historic Paso Robles Inn, located in the heart of Downtown, offers beautifully landscaped gardens with live koi ponds and large oak trees for a tranquil ceremony location. Receptions: The garden reception area, for up to 125 guests, offers blooming flowers, majestic trees, and manicured lawns. The Historic Grand Ballroom, recently restored to its early 1900’s grandeur, holds up to 300 guests. The Matador Room can accommodate up to 80 guests for those seeking a more intimate atmo-sphere. (www.pasoroblesinn.com) (See ad page 3.)

PAVILION ON THE LAKE, in Atascadero Lake Park (High way 41 and Pis mo Ave.); 461-5005 (City of Atascadero Com mu ni ty Ser vic es). Cer e -mo nies/Re cep tions may be held in the Pa vil ion, over looking the lake and park. All group sizes welcome. Catering avail able on-site.

RANCHO LLANO DE LOS ROBLES, 238-6551. A private residence 3 miles west of Paso Robles. Spanish Hacienda setting with rose gardens, spacious lawns, pergolas, towering Italian cypress, 9000 square-foot courtyard, and lighted gazebo. Bride’s room, ample parking, playhouse for children and 1100sq. ft. room for buffet food service. Ceremonies and receptions held outdoor; tables, chairs, linens, other rental items, and planning assistance available. Wedding and reception capacity 200; reception only, 300.

PISMO LIGHTHOUSE SUITES, 2411 Price Street, Pismo Beach, 93449; 773-2411, 1-800-245-2411. Oceanfront all-suite resort hotel. Rehearsal Dinners: Crow’s Nest meeting room accommodates up to 46 guests for an intimate rehearsal dinner. Catering and event planning recommendations available for all events. Accommodations: Features 70 suites with Bath and Body Work amenities, extended hot continental breakfast with waffle bar, and family Play Deck complete with badminton, ping pong, putting green, and heated pool and spa. (www.pismolighthousesuites.com)

PISMO BEACH GOLF COURSE, 9 Le Sage Dr., Grover Beach 93433; 459-5675. A tented golf-course venue. Ceremonies and Receptions held in the tent and on surrounding lawn near the golf course. Tent overlooks Pismo Beach Golf Course, capacity 225 with tables & chairs, linens, cater-ing, full bar services and full time special events manager onsite. (www.pismogolf.com)

ROBERT HALL WINERY, 3443 Mill Road, Paso Robles, 93446; 239-1616 ext. 20. Located in the heart of Paso Robles Wine Country. Cermonies/Receptions: Held in our underground wine caverns, Meritage dining room, garden terrace or outdoor amphitheater. Views overlooking vineyards, mir-ror pool and fountain. Outdoor lawn area and amphitheater can be tented. Catering kitchen. (www.roberthallwinery.com)

ROBIN’S RESTAURANT, 4095 Burton Dr., Cambria, 93428; 927-5007; fax 927-1320. Ceremonies: The informal cot tage garden decorated with flowers and herbs is designed to accommodate groups of from 25 to 80 for small ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners and special events. Robin’s also does off-site catering. Please call for more information and wedding packet. (www.robinsrestaurant.com)


SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTRY CLUB, 255 Country Club Dr., San Luis Obispo, 93401; 543-3400. Pri vate Country Club in rolling hills of Edna Val-ley. Cer e mo nies: May be held on the ex pan sive deck over look ing the golf course and pond, or in the main dining room. Receptions: May be held in the main dining room (cap 250). Dance Floor Avail able. On site catering only. Plenty of parking. Call for in for ma tion packet and tour. (www.slocoun-tryclub.com) (See ad inside Back Cover.)

ROSE’S LANDING RESTAURANT, 725 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, 93442; 772-4441; fax 773-1222 (Denise Roberts). Ceremonies, Receptions, and Rehearsal Dinners: Held outside on the patio (Cap. 150) overlooking the bay and Morro Rock. Restaurant indoor capacity 100. Special occasions, such as rehearsal dinners, reunions and family dinners a specialty.

SANTA BARBARA CO. FAIR GROUNDS at SANTA MARIA, 937 S. Thornburg, 93454; 925-8824. Ceremonies held at gazebo and lawn area. Re cep tions held inside and outside, for small to huge groups. Two large build ings for dinner and dancing (cap. 1,000). Com mercial kitchen; knowledge able staff. (www.santamariafairpark.com)

SANTA MARIA INN, 801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria, 93454; 928-7777, Full-service hotel. Ceremonies: In Fountain Courtyard, ca pac i ty 250. Re- cep tions: Several rooms, maximum 250. Garden capacity 350.

SEA CREST RESORT MOTEL, 2241 Price St., Pis mo Beach, 93449; 773-4608. Sea side resort hotel with gazebo on high bluff overlooking ocean. Fees depend on number of people and number of rooms reserved by wed-ding party. Beachfront ceremonies also. Ca pac i ty up to 50 seated. Two small in door rooms also available, for 20 and 60 peo ple respectively.

SEA PINES GOLF RESORT, 1945 Solano St, Los Osos; 528-5252, 888-732-7463. Full service resort including 44-room lodge with restaurant and full bar on 9-hole golf course with views of Morro Bay, Morro Rock and the Dunes. One wedding per day. Outdoor ceremonies are held in landscaped garden area of the golf course (cap 120). Receptions are held in the outdoor patio (cap 100). Canopy may be used on putting green for larger groups. Indoor receptions (cap 80). Onsite catering available. (www.seapinesgolfresort.com)

SEA VENTURE RESORT AND RESTAURANT, 100 Ocean View, Pismo Beach, 93449; 773-3463 or 773-7632 (ask for Patrice). Ceremonies: On the beach. Receptions and Rehearsal Dinners: Small intimate re cep -tions and rehearsal dinners for up to 75 (availability de ter mined by day and time). Held in the restaurant, which is located on the sand in Pismo Beach. Ocean view from every room. Hotel ac com mo da tions available. Off-site catering also available. (www.seaventure.com)

SEE CANYON FRUIT RANCH, 2345 See Can yon Rd., SLO, 93401; 235-8142 or 595-2376. 100-year-old Apple Ranch with complete fa cil i ty for wedding celebrations in country gardens. Ceremonies and re cep tions are held in the gardens (cap 125), with chapel, dance floor canopied with trees, and spring waterfall. Call for interview.

SANTA MARGARITA RANCH, 9000 Yerba Buena, Santa Margarita, 93453; 540-3214. An operating cattle ranch, this venue offers a lush, scenic garden area (cap. 1,000) and Barn (cap. 300) for weddings and receptions. The Ranch, with vineyard and historic Asistencia built in the 1770’s, provides an excellent backdrop for photos.

SHORE CLIFF LODGE AND PELICAN POINT RESTAURANT, 2555 Price Street, Pismo Beach, 93449; 773-4671, 1-800-441-8885 (ask for Catering & Sales). Oceanfront full-service resort with sweeping views of the Pacific. Ceremonies: Two ocean-view ceremony locations: The south lawn with views of the ocean and Pismo Pier, and our main ga-zebo situated on the bluffs of Pismo Beach amid beautifully manicured landscaping. Capacities from 10 to 220. Receptions: Pelican Point Restaurant offers accommodations for up to 200 guests with banquet facilities directly on the water. Hotel accommodations available, 100 rooms including 6 suites, all with views of the Pacific. (www.shorecliff.com) (See ad page 3)

SHELTER COVE LODGE, 2651 Price Street, Pismo Beach, 93449; 773-3511, 1-800-848-1434. Oceanfront hotel, all 53 rooms with ocean view. Ceremonies: Oceanfront location offers two settings for intimate wedding ceremonies or vow renewals. The wedding garden overlooks the Pacific and can accommodate up to 80 guests. The Gazebo with breathtaking panoramic views can accommodate up to 25 guests. (www.bwshelter-cove.com) (See ad page 3)

SOUTH BAY COM MU NITY CEN TER, 2180 Pali sades Av., Los Osos, 93402; 528-4169. Receptions: Large main hall with stage, com mer cial kitch en, rest rooms, patio, and park ing. Capacity, 325 dining. The main hall di vides in half, with or without kitchen. Fees in clude setup and takedown, use of chairs and 3’x8' ta bles, piano. Wheel chair lift to stage level. Double barbecue pit, stage light ing and sound system. Adjacent to South Bay Com mu ni ty Park; access allowed at all times. Music curfew is mid night. Extra in sur ance and/or se cu rity re quired for pub lic events. Alcohol okay; per mits and in sur ance re quired.

SOUTH COUNTY RE GIONAL CEN TER, 800 W. Branch St., Arroyo Grande, 93420; 489-1488. Receptions: Main hall, cap 300. Fees cov er 12 hours. Stage, full kitch en, bar be cue pits.

SOUTH COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 134 So. Mason St., Arroyo Grande, 93420; 473-5077. (Mail: PO Box 633, Arroyo Grande, CA 93421). In the heart of the historic village of Arroyo Grande. Have your wedding, reception, or social event at the beautiful Heritage House Gar-dens and Gazebo, complete with Victorian dressing room. Capacity is up to 250 guests in this turn-of-the-century setting. Easy access off US 101 at Grand Ave. (www.southcountyhistory.org/gazeboweddings.html)

SPYGLASS INN RESTAURANT, 2703 Spyglass Dr., Shell Beach, 93449; 773-7632, ask for Denise. Restaurant on high cliff overlooking ocean from Shell Beach. Cer e mo nies held on hotel grounds. Recep-tions, Rehearsal Din ners: Re cep tions held in the res tau rant or outside on the patio. Ban quet room seats up to 125. (www.spyglassinn.com)

STEAMERS OF PISMO, 1601 Price St., Pismo Beach, 93449; 773-4711. Cer e mo nies: May be held on the lawn near the cliffs overlooking the ocean and coastline in both directions; capacity 140. Receptions: Held in the Wave Room (cap. 140); smaller groups up to 40 accommodated in the Cove Room. Ocean views; pri vate entrance. (www.mclintocks.com)(Ad page 15.)

SUNRISE RANCH CEL E BRA TIONS EVENTS CENTER, 5385 Chap-arral Rd., Paso Rob les, 93446; 239-3683. Unique ranch setting is designed for parties and events with lake, ga ze bo, and large wedding chapel. All wed ding services may be ar ranged.(www.sunriseranchcel-ebrations.com)

SWALLOW CREEK RANCH, 6030 Highway 1, Cayucos, 93430; 686-9230. Unique ranch setting offers views of the ocean and rolling hills. Ceremonies may be held outdoors in a lovely sea view meadow or in a hilltop amphitheater overlooking the ocean. Indoor ceremonies and receptions are held in a newly renovated century-old barn (cap 300) with modern amenities. Rental fee includes entire weekend. (www.swal-lowcreekranch.com)


SY CAMORE MIN ER AL SPRINGS RE SORT, SY CAMORE MIN ER AL SPRINGS RE SORT, SY CAMORE MIN ER AL SPRINGS RE SORT on the road to Avila Beach in San Luis Obispo, (Mail: 1215 Avila Beach Rd., San Luis O bis po, 93405); 595-7302. A pleas ant out door set ting with tow er ing oaks and private court yard area. Cer e mo nies: May be held in the lawn gazebo area or in the Palm Room. Re cep tions: In doors, in the Palm Room (cap. 100). Fees vary de pend ing on serv ices re quest ed. (www.sycamoremineralsprings.com) (See ad page 25.)

WEDDINGS ON THE BAY at THE BACK BAY INN, 1391 2nd Street, Baywood Park, 93402; 528-8535. Bayside hotel. Ceremonies and Receptions: Held on the 7,000 sq. ft. Bayside gardens lawn (ca p. 225) overlooking the peaceful bay and dunes. Tented venue also available (cap 225). Fourteen-room hotel features all bay-facing view rooms. (www.wed-dingsonthebay.biz)

TIGER’S FOLLY II HARBOR CRUISE, 1205 Em bar cad ero (at Har bor Hut Res tau rant); (Mail: 214 Beach St., Morro Bay, 93442); 772-2257. Capac-ity 70 on lower deck; 40 on upper deck. Ceremonies are held aboard the boat; the Cap tain is li censed to per form non-de nomi na tional cere mo nies while un der way. Re cep tions, Par ties, Meet ings, oth er events: Two service styles: Hors d'ouevres or Full Dinner. Charg es are based on num ber of guests. On the lower deck, there is some room for danc ing. Ex cel lent views of Morro Bay Har bor, the back bay, and Morro Rock.

TWIN OAKS ESTATE, San Miguel; 467-3332; Linda Mora. Private resi-dence in vineyard-covered hills overlooking Mission San Miguel with pan-oramic views of entire area. Ceremonies are held on spa cious lawns with lighted gazebo for evening weddings. Large stone terrace for dancing (cap 400). Tables and chairs available; coordinator and plan ning assistance.

THE VICTORIAN, 1890 PITKIN-CONROW ESTATE, 789 Valley Road, Arroyo Grande, 93420; 481-4570, ask for Melanie Hodges. 110-year-old renovated Victorian House. Ceremonies and Receptions are held outdoors at the Gar den Gazebo (cap. 300). Indoor capacity 80. Dressing rooms for Bride & Groom. On-site catering. Ample Parking.(www.victorianwedding.net) (See ad page 17.)

VILLA TOSCANA BED & BREAKFAST, at Martin & Weyrich Winery, 4230 Buena Vista Dr., Paso Robles, 93446; 238-5600. A new fa cil i ty in stone Tuscan architecture of fer ing indoor and outdoor sites for re cep tions and out door ceremonies. Call for more information. (www.myvillatoscana.com)

THE GARDENS AT PEACOCK FARMS, 2018 Los Berros Road, Arroyo Grande 93420; 474-5600. Situated on a quaint farm in the countryside near Arroyo Grande. Ceremonies and Receptions: Outdoor only in the ample shade of walnut orchards, with beautiful rose and water gardens, capacity approx. 200. A pair of proud peacocks roam the property and a windmill overlooks it. All bridal packages include an on-site coordinator, bridal party quarters, tables, chairs, linens and florals. For information, call Jessica Nichols, of Flowers To You By Jessica. (www.thegardensatpea-cockfarms.com) (See ad page 13.)

www.cliffsresort.com


advertiser indexApparel

A Heart’s Desires ....................................... 35

Down The Aisle .......................................... 35

AssociationsCentral Coast Wedding Professionals ....... 33

Cake Bakers & DecoratorsCarlock’s Bakery ........................................ 41

Cassie’s Custom Cakes ............................ 41

éclair Bakery .............................................. 43

The Cakery ................................................ 41

Catering ServicesMama’s Meatball ....................................... 37

Pacifi c Harvest Events .............................. 39

Phoenix Fine Catering ............................... 38

Piazza Bistro ............................................. 39

Upper Crust Trattoria ................................. 38

Event Designers & CoordinatorsAll Traditions .............................................. 47

Elegant Details ............................................ 1

Fancy’s Event Services ............................. 47

Floral DesignersArt of Flowers ............................................ 50

Elegant Details ............................................ 1

Festive Designs ......................................... 51

Flowers by Denise ..................................... 51

Flowers by Kim .......................................... 52

Flowers To You By Jessica ........................ 53

Jenny McNiece Flowers ............................ 49

Invitations & StationeryPaper Sky .................................................. 55

Village Papery & Gifts ................................ 55

Makeup Artists

Artista Makeup .......................................... 45

Twist Studio Spa ............. Inside Front Cover

Twist Studio Spa ........................................ 45

Music and Disc JockeysAMS Entertainment ................................... 61

Fun-Time DJ .............................................. 60

LaBarbera Sound ...................................... 27

LaBarbera Sound ...................................... 59

Mighty Croon Dogs Band ............................ 9

Muir Music ................................................. 60

Music For Festive Occasions ................ 57

Oasis Band ................................................ 60

Penny Beavers, Harpist ............................. 57

The Central Coast DJ ................................ 60

OfficiantsAt Your Service Weddings ......................... 63

Barbara Koenig ......................................... 63

Rev. Jay Horn, DD ..................................... 63

Sherri Hereford .......................................... 63

Photographers

A. Blake Photography ................................ 71

Amy Wellenkamp, Photographers ............... 5

Colleen Rosenthal Photography ................ 23

Fitzpatrick Studios Photography ................ 65

Jen Rodriguez Photography ...................... 67

Michelle Warren Photography ..................... 7

Patrick Swadener ......................................Patrick Swadener ......................................Patrick Swadener 73

Studio 101 West ....................................... 68

Terilee Dawn Photography ........................ 69

Tuman Photography .................................. 68

White Wolf Studio ...................................... 71

Reception & Ceremony Venues

Apple Farm ................................................ 24

Avila Lighthouse Suites ............................... 3

Best Western Shelter Cove Lodge .............. 3

Best Western Shore Cliff Lodge .................. 3

Cambria Pines Lodge ................................ 20

Cliffs Resort ............................................... 20

Cliffs Resort .................................Back Cover

Courtyard Marriott Hotel .............................. 9

Cypress Ridge Pavilion ............................. 31

Dana Powers House ................................... 9

Eagle Castle Winery .................................. 18

Edna Valley Vineyard ................................ 17

F. McLintocks ............................................. 15

Gardens at Peacock Farms ....................... 13

Inn at Morro Bay ........................................ 25

La Perla del Mar ........................................La Perla del Mar ........................................La Perla del Mar 18

Madonna Inn ..............................................11

Paso Robles Inn .......................................... 3

San Luis Obispo Country Club ......................

................................ Inside Back Cover

Sea Venture Resort ................................... 24

Steamers of Pismo .................................... 15

Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort ............. 25

Victorian Pitkin Conrow Estate .................. 17

RentalsCover Ups ................................................. 75

Got You Cover’d ........................................ 75

VideographersCaballero Video ......................................... 73

Patrick Swadener Photography & Video ... 73


© FITZPATRICK STUDIOS PHOTOGRAPHY, AD PAGE 65

Bride’s Name ______________________________________ Groom’s Name _________________________________

Mailing Address for Wedding Info: _____________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip: __________________________________________________ E-Mail Add? ______________________

Mailing Address After Wedding: ______________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip: ___________________________________________________________________________________

Bride’s Phone ___________________ Groom’s Phone _________________________Message Phone ____________

Wedding Date ______________________ , @ _________ am/pm. Rehearsal Date/Time ___________@ ___ am/pm.

Ceremony Location Name __________________________ # Guests _______________ # of Bride’s Attds ___________

Ceremony Type (Length, Formality, etc.) _______________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________ ______

Street Address __________________________________________City & Zip Code _____________________________

Contact Person __________________________________ Phone ____________________ Fax ___________________

Bride Arrival Time @ Location _______________________ Groom Arrival Time ____________ Dressing There? _____

Ceremony Ending Time _______________________________ Departure from Ceremony Time ___________________

Where Bride can be located on morning of Wedding: ______________________________________________________

Reception Location Name _________________________ # Guests ______________Type of Food Svc. ___________

Type of Music ____________ Alcohol Served? _____ (circle) Open Bar / No-Host Bar / Wine / Beer / Toasts Only

Street Address ___________________________________ City & Zip Code ___________________________________

Contact Person __________________________________ Phone ____________________ Fax ___________________

Arrival Time After Ceremony _______________________ Departure from Reception Time ______________________

Offi ciant ___________________________________________ Phone ______________

Coordinator/Consultant ______________________________ Phone ______________

Photographer ______________________________________ Phone _____________

Florist ____________________________________________ Phone _____________

Dress Shop ________________________________________ Phone _____________

Tux Shop _________________________________________ Phone _____________

Videographer ______________________________________ Phone _____________

Caterer ___________________________________________ Phone _____________

Baker ____________________________________________ Phone _____________

Ceremony Musicians _________________________________ Phone _____________

Reception Entertainers _______________________________ Phone _____________

Equipment Rental Store ______________________________ Phone _____________

Bride’s Honor Attendant ______________________________ Phone _____________

Best Man __________________________________________ Phone ________________

Other Notes or Information

Represented on the Central Coast byJOE LABARBERA

Please call Joe forAdvertising or Distribution Information

[email protected] contact Bill Cory, [email protected]

Wedding Day Information

OKAY TO COPY AND DISTRIBUTE THIS PAGE


BridalFairs

Bridal shows should be fun! Th ey can be if you plan for them.

First, don’t go alone. Th ough your fi ancé might not be extremely interested in going, you might be able to lure him to the show with promises of free cake and catering samples.

If not, that’s okay: You don’t want to drag him along if he isn’t going to enjoy it. But, take someone with you: A mom, best friend, sister, or anyone with whom you can share your thoughts and reactions. Just bring one or maybe two friends; a bigger group will just become a problem to interact with and manage.

Bring along a pen, notepad, and appointment calendar. Print some cards with your name, cell phone number, email, and wedding date to leave with people. You might be interested in a vendor who can’t answer a question or make a commitment at the fair, and you will want them to get in touch with you.

Wear comfy shoes. If you’re there for the whole show, you don’t want to be thinking about how your feet hurt. (Mention this to your friends who come along, too!)

Caterers will be sampling their dishes, but the food might not still be there if you go late. Try to arrive at least within the fi rst half hour of the show so you can try samples while they are fresh.

If you can get an advance list of the vendors who will have booths at the fair, your planning will be easier. Mark those you want to see and try to get to them early.

What do you ask a vendor? Th e fi rst question, if you are interested in their services, is whether they have your wedding date available. If not, there’s no point in talking further.

If they have your date open, describe your wedding plans to them: Where will the ceremony be held? Th e reception? What time of day? What kind of wedding and reception do you want to create? Th ese will help them describe to you what they can do to help fulfi ll your vision for the big day.

Th e same questions apply to the major reception venues. Th ey’ll have photos available to help you see if their site is what you envision.

Should you bring your checkbook? Some say no, but think of it this way: Many vendors off er “show specials,” and if you can take advantage of them, you can save money or get extra services less expensively. If you plan to book someone at the show, with or without a special deal or discount, ask for their contract, go sit down, and read it. Come back and ask any questions. Don’t be afraid to ask hard questions: Disappointments are caused by unmet expectations, and these occur most often when you and the vendor haven’t communicated as well as needed.

Remember: Talk with people, gather new ideas, and have fun! Visiting shows outside the SLO and northern Santa Barbara County area is a good idea, too. Many times, trends in wedding foods, decoration and clothing become localized. It’s great if they meet your needs and fulfi ll your desires, but seeing diff erent off erings from out-of-area professionals can help you if you’re searching for something unique.

For a current schedule of Bridal Shows in this area, go to the Central Coast Wedding Professionals website:

http://www.ccwp.com/events.html

© JEN RODRIGUEZ PHOTOGRAPHY, AD PAGE 67


A FridayWedding?

Why get married on a Friday? Here are some Why get married on a Friday? Here are some Wreasons to consider it.Wreasons to consider it.W1) You might more easily get your fi rst choices of

location, services and vendors.2) Rooms for guests will be easier and cheaper to book

for Th ursday arrivals (for the rehearsal). Airfares might also be cheaper.

3) Your honeymoon will gain a day! Or, if you want, you can hang around for the weekend and visit with your out-of-town guests.

4) You might be able to save a penny or two on professional fees. Some pros will welcome the extra work and will off er a discount.

5) Local guests will be able to get a babysitter. Only out-of-towners might have kids with them.

If planning time is short — under six months — a Friday night might be necessary. But, as the points above show, that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

How will guests react? Most locals will not have a problem: It gives them a chance to get out “without the kids” on a Friday, and it leaves their weekend open. Out-of-towners will need longer notice.

Th ree more tips if you’re planning Friday nuptials:1) Send out-of-town guests a “save the date” card prior

to the invitation so they can give adequate notice at work. Enclose a stamped response with it so they can tell you if it’s not possible.

2) Almost everyone will assume your wedding date is a Saturday, so emphasize whenever you can that it’s on Friday. Pros make the same assumptions, and don’t always listen perfectly (like all of us), so be certain they understand before you schedule an interview.

3) When you talk with the reception site salespeople and other vendors, don’t be hesitant to ask for a discount. An extra reception booking, even at a discount, will greatly increase the normal weekend income for venues and vendors. Th ey are not likely to turn down a reasonable off er. If they say no, you can still book at full price, or look elsewhere.



An Easy, QuickCeremonyRehearsal

The evening of your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner is basically a social time for family

and close friends. Oh sure, you practice the wedding ceremony — and you’ll have a great time doing it. great time doing it. greatBut it’s simple and quick, once everyone gets there.

It’s the offi cial beginning of your “wedding weekend.” It can set a theme for the ceremonies that follow. Th e theme can be on-time and effi cient (but relaxed), or it can be late, scattered (and hurried).

First of all, rehearsals need to be run — conducted — by someone. It’s best if that “someone” is not the bride, groom, or a family member (unless the family member is an offi cial or the coordinator). Th e person doing it must be taken seriously by your wedding party and family.

Your start time will depend mainly on the arrival time of the wedding party. Th e greeting and meeting and hugging and exclaiming about kids grown up, etc., will take thirty minutes: You should plan this into your schedule. If people are told to arrive at 6:00 pm, and you plan on starting at 6:05 pm, you should also plan on being frustrated. Instead, plan on starting at 6:30 pm. Give your friends and family their greeting time, and then when you start, get it done and go to dinner.

Here’s how to run it quickly. Start the rehearsal with everyone in their positions, with you, the bride, standing before the altar on the arm of your escort. Be given away to the groom, mount the altar with him and get positions set. Get everyone the way you want them, and ask them to notice where they are standing. (You might want to mark positions with clear tape.) Th en, practice your ceremony according to how your offi ciant wants to do it. Go right through it, letting the singers sing, the readers read, etc. Th en practice your recessional. When you reach the back of the aisle, just stop there, have your bridal attendants turn around and prepare to go back down. Send your groom and his merry men off to the side, get everyone in position for the processional (your grandparents, parents, etc.), and practice it, all the way through to the point where you started before, standing there on your escort’s arm.

Have anyone with questions ask them at the point they come up — it’s much quicker.

You will fi nish your entire ceremony rehearsal in about 40 minutes. Go to dinner and have a good time!

© AMY WELLENKAMP PHOTOGRAPHY, AD PAGE 5

Wake Up! ___________________________________________________________________________________

Eat A Good Breakfast _________________________________________________________________________

Nails Done _________________________________________________________________________________

Hair Done __________________________________________________________________________________

Makeup Done _______________________________________________________________________________

Get Gown, etc., together ______________________________________________________________________

Leave for Ceremony Location __________________________________________________________________

Arrive at Ceremony Location ___________________________________________________________________

Groom Arrives a Ceremony Loc’n _______________________________________________________________

Florist Arrives/Flowers ready ____________________________________________________________________

Ready for Photos _____________________________________________________________________________

Photographer Arrives _________________________________________________________________________

Pre-Ceremony Photo Session (?) _______________________________________________________________

Guests Finish Seating ________________________________________________________________________

Close Guest Book ___________________________________________________________________________

Procession Begins ___________________________________________________________________________

Ceremony Ends _____________________________________________________________________________

Post-Ceremony Photos (?) _____________________________________________________________________

Leave For Reception _________________________________________________________________________

Arrive at Reception ___________________________________________________________________________

Receiving Line (?) ___________________________________________________________________________

Buffet/Dinner Served _________________________________________________________________________

Toast at Cake or Head Table ____________________________________________________________________

Cake Cutting, Sharing ________________________________________________________________________

First Dance _________________________________________________________________________________

Money Dance (?) ____________________________________________________________________________

General Dancing ____________________________________________________________________________

Bouquet Toss _______________________________________________________________________________

Garter Toss (?) ______________________________________________________________________________

Change Clothes to Leave ______________________________________________________________________

Get Ready To Leave __________________________________________________________________________

Continue Getting Ready To Leave ______________________________________________________________

Ready to Leave ... Hugs and Kisses ______________________________________________________________

Leave Reception ____________________________________________________________________________

Arrive at Next Destination ______________________________________________________________________

Next Day: Brunch? ___________________________________________________________________________

SCHEDULED TIME?

Wedding Day Event Schedule

NOTES



A Stress-Free Reception!

Some receptions drag. You’ve certainly noticed, haven’t you? But, some don’t. It’s

sort of like feng shuisort of like feng shuisort of like , but with timing, activities and people. A good DJ or “Master of Ceremonies” will often keep things going, avoiding boring periods, while still managing activites and allowing you time to relax and enjoy your guests.

A reception is a giant party that must be managed. Everyone is happier when each activity fl ows into the next, the organized events are quickly fi nished, and they are then all free to move around, mix, dance, drink and be merry.

For years, receptions have had about fi ve major events:

1) Food Service2) Toast3) Cake Cutting4) First Dance5) Th e Bouquet and Garter TossWith the exception of the fi rst and last

activities, the entire reception will work most smoothly if the toast, cake cutting and fi rst dance are done as a “unit.”

Here’s how: After you have eaten, and most guests are nearly fi nished, have your DJ or band leader announce that you’re doing your toasts. Get the glasses full, give the microphone to the Best Man, and do the fi rst toast. Do as many toasts as you want, and then, without a pause, announce the cake cutting.

Th e two of you should head for the cake table, let the crowd gather ‘round, do the ceremony and obligatory icing smudge, and then, without a pause, announce the fi rst dance.

Just like Fred and Ginger, fl ow onto the dance fl oor, have the music start up, and do the dancing. When you’re fi nished with all the dancing and the entire wedding party is on the fl oor, invite all your guests to join in. Th e party is suddenly underway!

Th e rest of the day or evening can be completely free-wheeling: At some point, announce the garter and bouquet toss, money dance, etc.

By getting these events done according to a plan, you will be freed to enjoy the party and let your hair down a bit, your groom can take off his jacket and tie if he wants, your photographer and videographer won’t have to be paid for overtime, and your guests will not be bored.

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ChoosingProfessionalWeddingServices

Many very excellent wedding professionals work on the Central Coast. It’s a beautiful place to live, doing the job you enjoy. But, there is a problem introduced by this very desirable

situation: Not only do the good, very experienced wedding pro’s come here, but inexperienced beginners come here, too. But, how does that concern you? Here’s how: Th e success of your wedding day depends on the people you hire to provide your services. How can you know that the person you are interviewing is qualifi ed to provide what you want? It’s not diffi cult.

First, decide what you want. You will be talking with a number of professionals, and what you want you want. You will be talking with a number of professionals, and what you want youto fi nd out is whether they can (and want to) do what you want done, how they will do it, and how much it will cost. Th en, it’s up to you to hire them or keep looking. It’s a simple process.

Some Tips:1) If references are off ered, take them and call them if you have specifi c questions. Just realize that

references apply to the best of the person’s work. If no references are off ered, it’s not a negative: Many people feel it’s an intrusion.

2) See as many photos, and read as many thank you notes, as you can. Th ey’re basically as good as references.

3) Ask other pro’s if they would refer this person. If not, ask why not. It could simply be a personal thing, or maybe they just have never worked together and the person can’t vouch for their services.

4) Get a contract, a complete estimate that you sign and agree on, or something in writing that states what is off ered, when the service will be performed, how much it will cost, and when payment is due.

5) Be sure you are talking about the same services, the same fl owers, the same times, the same colors, the same everything: Communication is sometimes a slippery thing, especially when you assume a pro knows what you are talking about, but in his or her mind a diff erent picture is forming. Be insultingly clear, if necessary. And, ask them to be the same way with you. (If you say it with a smile, it will go over very well.)

As for the not as well qualifi ed people who have started their businesses here, they could possibly be the very people you want. A photographer whose style isn’t set might provide for you a wildly imaginative coverage, if that’s what you want. Th at’s just one example, but it’s something to consider. Th e “new people” might be inexperienced, but their very newness could indicate a welcomed freshness!

Whomever you decide to hire, get back in touch with them as needed, about a month, and then a week, before the wedding. Take advantage of their experience and listen to their ideas and suggestions. Send them the wedding day schedule, and meet with them at least once more before the wedding day.

And, enjoy the process. You will meet a lot of neat people along the way!



WeddingDay Apparel

Th ere are many authoritative sources of information on “how to shop for your wedding gown.” Just to add to them, here are a few tips from us.

Where’s the wedding? At the beach? Forget the ball gown!

Be sure your choice of gown fi ts the setting. You don’t want to be fi ghting your gown during the ceremony.

Know What You Want. Do you know how to ask for exactly

the dress you have pictured in your mind? You need to know the diff erence between various shades of white, what the diff erent styles are called, etc. If you don’t, you’ll just be in for a confusing, irritating time of dress shopping. You can fi nd many good books to educate you.

Set A Budget. If you don’t, you can be a pigeon for

a good salesperson. Tell her what you are prepared to spend, and don’t try on anything outside of your budget. You can expect the entire gown ensemble to account for 10 to 15 percent of the total cost of the event. Don’t forget shipping fees, alteration charges, etc. Figure them into your cost estimate.

Start Shopping Early. Your time will not only be much

more in demand as the big day approaches, but you can also count on delays, things taking longer than expected, etc. And, don’t forget this big one: It takes a lot of time to make a







wedding dress! Allow 3 or 4 months, and then a couple of months for the alterations.

Plan Your Attack. So many gowns, so little time! Use it wisely

by calling stores in advance. Find out which brands they off er, the price ranges, and whether or not they off er accessories and do alterations in-house. Shop during the week, and allow an entire morning or afternoon for the eff ort. You’ll try on several dresses each time you go to a shop, so bring along a notebook and make detailed notes. A Polaroid camera is a good idea if they’ll allow it. Have the saleslady take your picture in the gown, and make a note on the picture.

Try to save some money. Many stores have sale racks. If you buy on sale days, sometimes you can get a discount. Call the stores and ask if they are having any sale days coming up.

Try on unpopular dresses. Just because others didn’t like a particular dress, that doesn’t mean you won’t like it. Some dresses just never get tried on because they look lousy on a hanger; maybe they look great on you! Try ‘em on; it’s free.

Get The One That Fits You Now. You can always take a gown in, but letting it

out is very diffi cult. Get the size that you wear now, not the size you plan on being for wedding day. If you miss your goal, well … just get the size that fi ts and looks good today.

Get Everything In Writing.When it will be ready, when the fi rst fi tting

will happen, cancellation fees, what allowance or refund is made if the dress arrives damaged or is damaged by the shop. Your dress is liable to damage by water and many other things; knowing what will happen if the unthinkable takes place can reduce your stress.

Th e Fittings. Expect at least two, maybe three fi ttings. And, if you want more, ask for them. Th is is a one-time deal, and you must be pleased. Be sure that for each fi tting, you are wearing the undergarments, shoes, etc., that you will be wearing on wedding day.



YourCateringServices

If you’ve been to many weddings, you might already know what kind of food you want

for your wedding and how you’d like it served. Th e task before you at this point is to decide who will prepare and serve it.

Every professional caterer has a good cooking staff . But is quality of the food the only thing involved? Let’s assume you can take food quality for granted, and you are interviewing only the caterers who specialize in foods you want.

What about the quality of the service itself? Th e word “cater” means “serve.” When interviewing caterers, you’ll tend to assume that their service is all the same, but this is possibly the aspect that actually diff ers the most. You can fi nd out something about the service staff s of caterers by talking to other wedding professionals, and by asking the caterers for references. (Of course, as with any list of references from any professional, you’ll get the list of those that went perfectly; the others won’t be included. You’ll at least fi nd out what kind of job this caterer can do when things go as they should. Th at’s very useful information.)

Many smaller caterers have gone into this occupation mainly because their cooking was and is very tasty, and the larger caterers have grown to be large because, when smaller, they off ered great food and great service. Don’t get

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the idea from this that the larger caterers are automatically the best choice. Th e smaller ones might be perfect for you in every way: Cost, menus, date availability, etc.

Caterers specialize in diff erent types of dishes: One might be a barbecue specialist, while another might have studied French foods in a fi ne culinary school in Paris.Whatever their specialty is, hire them for that type of cooking. If a caterer needs the work, you might have the situation where he or she says they can do almost any type of dish you want. But if it’s not on the caterer’s standard menus, chances are it will not match the expert’s recipe. Stick with their standard menu off erings if you want to be sure to have excellent recipes. You don’t want to ask a barbecue specialist to make crêpes suzette!

Food StationsTh ese are especially useful if your reception

area is somewhat crowded. Food stations are set up as separate “islands” where certain dishes are served. Salads, desserts, meats, cold drinks, gourmet coff ees — each is served by a small team or an individual. It cuts down on lines, gets everyone eating sooner (once they’ve fi gured out the system), and adds a little variety to the standard banquet type of service. Not all caterers off er it.



Buffet or Plated Service?Th ey are diff erent, and not

just in the budget department.A buff et line gives people

a chance to visit, meet new friends, talk about your wedding, or whatever. It’s much more fun than a plated service, since it provides this opportunity to be social and meet fellow guests not seated at the same table.

Specialty CoffeesOur morning waker-upper is

still the most popular beverage in the world. Ever since Starbucks made specialty coff ee drinks an everyday thing, we have come to like lattés, cappucinos and frappucinos. A gourmet coff ee


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caterer will send a fully capable coff ee cart and experienced barista to your reception, barista to your reception, baristaoften for a nominal guaranteed fee.

Cake ServiceSome caterers hesitate if they’re asked to

serve the Bride’s cake. Others do it with a smile. If your reception is at a banquet hall or other venue where there is no staff to serve the cake, you can either ask the caterer, or talk your favorite aunts into it. Be aware that a hotel will often charge a cake service fee if you bring a cake in from an outside baker; it’s usually the same per-slice price they would have charged to provide the cake for the reception.

A Tip: If aunts, sisters or friends serve the cake, have them fi nd out how to cut it. A beautful cake can be made into plates of messy pieces if the servers can’t do it well.


YourWeddingCakes

Our fi rst bit of advice is this — and it is a hint you’ll see throughout this magazine. If you like one decorator’s cakes, try to hire that decorator. If you go and that decorator. If you go and thathire another decorator to do your cake, and then ask that person if they can imitate somebody else’s style, you’ll be rewarded by a cold stare and a half-hearted attempt to do what the person thinks you want — if they agree to work for if they agree to work for ifyou. (It should be obvious, but just in case it isn’t: Asking one artistic pro to imitate another’s work says that you think the other’s is better. So, if you do ask this of anyone, at least spare their feelings by saying the cake was in New York, or was several years ago — not one made by someone local.) But, the basic point is: Hire the person to do what the person does — not to try to do what someone else does.

The Bride’s Wedding Cake is the focal point of your reception room.

It’s a symbol of your relationship and of the fruit of your marriage. The symbolism is deep and historical ... but you might not

care at all about that.

Maybe you just want a cake that looks beautiful, with flavors that are to die for ...

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Th ere is more than one kind of wedding cake. Th ere are Bride’s cakes, the one we normally associate with the wedding, and Groom’s cakes, which are optional.

Th e Bride’s cake normally has white or pastel frosting, decorations that can mimic patterns in your gown, and can have more than one fl avor.

Th e fl avor you expect to be most popular among your guests would be used for the bottom, largest layer, and so forth. It’s popular, these days, to use exotic combinations. An example: Luscious rich chocolate for the bottom layer, with a raspberry or cream fi lling, and a marbled cake for the top of that tier.

Th e next layer might be carrot cake with cream cheese between the layers, and the next might be regular white

cake with white frosting, but maybe a few strawberry slices between the layers for the lucky few to discover.

As far as fl avors, it’s up to you and your budget. Expect to pay a low of $1.50 per slice and a high of up to $4.75 per slice. Some reception locations include the cake in their fees. In fact, some locations charge you more if you don’t order your cake don’t order your cake don’tthrough them. Hotels will sometimes charge a cutting fee per slice, even if

you ask friends or relatives to slice and serve the cake.

Groom’s cakes are now becoming popular all over the country. Th ey are frequently a one-layer addition at the side of the Bride’s cake. (Sometimes, from a Scandinavian tradition, they are a stack of rings, larger at the bottom, with a point at the top.) Th e most popular fl avors are chocolate or ginger, with fruit fi llings.


Looking Your Best

Every Bride looks beautiful. We all know

it’s true. Has there ever been one that didn’t look great as she glided down the aisle to meet her man?

But, with all that put aside .... Is your appearance the way youIs your appearance the way youIs your appearance the waywant it to be on your wedding day? If it is, you are a fortunate person — and so is your Groom. But just in case it isn’t, here are some tips that might help you reach your appearance goals.

Your ComplexionNothing is more beautiful

than a nice complexion. Your skin displays the care you give it, but not instantly. If your epidermis is damaged by sunburn or dried by deep tanning, it doesn’t recover quickly. Th e glow you hope for—the blush that puts color into your cheeks the instant you see Your Man waiting for you 65 feet away — might not be visible unless your skin is healthy.

Nutrition can also play a major part in the appearance of your skin. “We are what we eat,” as they say, and our skin shows it. A nutritionally well-



balanced diet, supplemented with Vitamin E, B and C (at the least) will work wonders for that blush and for the overall appearance of your skin, with or without makeup.

But, with the skin, nothing happens quickly. Start as early as you can. Soon after you become engaged, start a “healthy habits” program. Get enough exercise to sweat three or four times a week, eat balanced meals with reduced saturated fats and oils, use a natural bath soap that won’t dry out your skin, and don’t get sunburned.

In less than a month, you’ll begin to see improvements that will amaze you. However, if you don’t keep up those healthy habits, you won’t continue to reap the benefi ts from them.

With more serious skin problems, it could be well worth the cost of an offi ce visit to a dermatologist, to ask him or her what to do for your skin. You’ll be looking at your wedding day complexion for years, in photos and videos. And nothing — not the prettiest gown or the most beautiful fl owers — can make you as beautiful as your own healthy complexion!

And, your Groom? Male skin responds exactly the same way female skin does to the same treatment. We’re all human. Get him on those healthy habits, too.

And, Your HairDid you know that your hair, even though it’s

technically “dead,” reveals the good and bad points of your diet? So, the advice above applies to your hair, too. Eat a healthful diet, and your hair will show it. But, your hair doesn’t show it for months. (Average hair growth is one-half inch per month.)

Consider going into a beauty salon next week, sit down, and ask the beautician to tell you what’s wrong with your hair, skin, nails, etc. Th is isn’t a lab analysis, but it’s a lot cheaper.

When it comes to our appearance, nothing that lasts long happens quickly. So, get started!



Coordinators,Consultants, &Event Designers

The professional titles of wedding “coordinator,” “consultant,” and

“wedding planner” mean basically the same thing. Th ey signify that the person is very highly experienced with how weddings and receptions work, what must be scheduled when, and what to do when something goes off track. (Yes, unfortunately, it does happen!)

Many people with these titles can also serve as “Event Designers,” which is a more current term. Most event designers can fulfi ll the role of coordinator, but there is more that an event designer usually off ers. Whereas a coordinator will make things run smoothly for you, an event designer will help you decide the look and feel of your ceremony and reception. Th ey’ll “stage” the production. Th ink “Production Designer” for a movie: Th is is the person who decides and maintains the overall look and feel of every scene, so that it is all cohesive. Everything looks right together, and there’s a continuity to it.

If your design talents are somewhat challenged, interview and consider both levels of professional services.

A Coordinated DayIf you have your wedding and reception

with the help of a coordinator, and it all goes perfectly, so that you never knew she or he was there, then they did the job perfectly.

A coordinator works mainly behind the scenes, planning, shaping, monitoring, guiding, and managing. With a good coordinator, nothing will go off track far


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enough for you to notice. And, if it does, it will quickly be corrected.

Some event designers plan the staging and help with it, but not all of them do the same coordinating tasks. When you interview people, be sure to cover this very important point.

As with other wedding professionals, the most important qualifi cation for a coordinator is extensive wedding experience. Often, a coordinator will provide references; if you are at all in doubt about the person, call the references. Usually, though, you can tell the extent of a person’s wedding background by simply talking with them, seeing photos of the weddings they’ve done, and reading Th ank You’s from their brides and grooms.

You will want to have a contract between you and the business or person providing your services. Be sure that it is specifi c: It should cover everything that will be done for you and when it will be done. It should specify all payment arrangements, including cancellation policy, deposits, and fi nal payment.



FlowersForYourWeddingDay

Can you close your eyes and picture the fl owers and decorations of

your wedding and reception? Th e answer might be “no,” until you’ve seen what’s in season and available at a reasonable price from fl oral designers.

Of course, you already have an idea of the fl ower colors you’d like to feature, but the practiced eye of a professional fl oral designer will help you choose complimentary colors to go with it, as well as selecting certain types of blooms that won’t wilt your pocketbook.

Th ere’s also the question of styles: An arrangement of the same kinds of fl owers for your bouquet, for example, can be fashioned in any number of diff ering styles. Bloom sizes and stem lengths will diff er—no problem for a professional. Th at’s only one example. You can also vary the styles of sprays, table arrangements, pew-bow designs, bouttonnieres, etc.

See The FlowersIn order to choose styles, you need to

see them. Diff erent fl oral designers, like caterers and photographers, will favor certain styles and be better at them. Th ey might not “specialize” in a certain type of bouquet, but they might create some types better than they do others. Th ey will often feature in their portfolios the styles they like the best and with which they feel the most comfortable. It’s a good idea to ask, also, if the designer prefers a certain type of design.

And See The DesignersTalk to as many fl oral designers as

you can, until you fi nd the perfect match. You’ll meet some who prefer working with roses, others who favor carnations and baby’s breath, and some who like wildfl owers best.

What Do You Know?Do you need to know a lot about




fl owers? Probably not. Th at’s what the designers are for. You might want to know something about what’s in season (for cost reasons), and which fl owers have specifi c meanings (for sentimental reasons).

What’s in season is easy to discover. But, don’t confuse “in season” with what’s popular at a given time. Some types are much more expensive because they are associated with certain holidays: Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day wouldn’t be the same without red roses, for example. If you marry near those days, you’ll pay more for the popular varieties.

Whatʼs The Meaning Of All This?Th e meanings and symbolism of

fl ower varietis are lost on most people. But part of the magic of a wedding day is contained in hidden symbolism,

known to you, but by only a few others. Did you know, for instance, that buttercups

symbolize riches, or that gardenias mean joy? Most people understand that red roses and red chrysanthemums tell someone you love them, but did you know that violets signify fi delitydid you know that violets signify fi delitydid you know that violets signify , and apple blossoms mean temptation? If you want to load your bouquet with symbolic meanings, and put specifi c buds in your parents’ and parents’-in-law’s corsages and bouttonieres, ask your fl orist about it. It could add a special touch to something that’s often taken for granted as being merely decorative.

Your Bouquet Comes FirstOne of the very fi rst items you should plan

is your bridal bouquet. Not only do all the other fl ower choices echo it; it is also the most visible accessory you’ll have all day long. It will show in most of your photos, much of your video, and it might be the only fl oral piece you keep.

In general, the fl owers you choose for your bouquet will also be the main fl owers used in the other bouquets and boutonnieres for attendants and family members. Th ey’ll also set the key for your altar sprays, table pieces, and other fl oral arrangements.

In turn, your fl owers will also set the tone for other decorations and colors. Your cake might be decorated to match or complement your fl owers.




Even your invitation package can easily be chosen with graphic elements that match your fl oral choices.

Many Brides, knowing that our noses are powerful memory-makers, choose a special fl ower with a scent they enjoy. Th en, when they smell that fragrance in the future, the brain does the rest — they are instantly taken back to vivid memories of this most glorious day. (Floral scents can be enhanced or added, too. Ask your fl orist about it.)

Working With Your Floral DesignerYou’ll be surprised to discover that many

fl orists do more than “just fl owers.” Creating beautiful bouquets and arrangements is an artistic talent, and it is often accompanied by a creative fl air for decorating an entire wedding site with arches, candles, streamers, various fabrics, and so forth. When you see the sample photos from fl orists, you’ll notice those who off er such a complete decoration service.

You’ll want to know, as you look at sample photos, if the same people will create your arrangements and designs as those in the photos. Will a member of the fl orist’s staff be available to take care of pinning personal fl owers on the wedding party and family members, so they’ll be done correctly? Has the fl orist used the ideas he or she is describing to you to decorate the ceremony and reception locations you have booked? After your ceremony, and after a brief photo session at the ceremony location, will the fl orist’s staff transfer large altar pieces such as sprays and candelabrae to the reception site?

The EstimateEstimates vary in detail. Th e better you can

describe exactly what you want, the better a fl orist can design for your needs and estimate the cost.

With this in mind, you should receive a written estimate based on what you and she or he have discussed. Th e estimate might make other suggestions for you to consider.

Th e bottom line might surprise you when you see the fi rst estimate from a fl orist, but as you shop, you will realize that fl owers can be expensive.


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A ContractIn many cases, adding a separate contract after the

estimate is not necessary. Th e estimate itself details the service and products being off ered for a certain price, and you can make changes, then accept it by signing it and giving the fl orist a deposit on the cost.

If there is no separate contract, be sure the estimate includes elements of a contract: When the service will be performed and delivered, cancellation policy, payment requirements, etc.

If you have any doubts at all about the fl orist’s ability to deliver what has been shown on the estimate, state them clearly and get an answer that satisfi es you. It is one more way to remove stress from your planning process.


Your Invitations

The invitation package, or its purpose, is one of the things that has changed very little from

year to year. Styles have been added, while formal styles that originated decades ago are still available.

But aside from the style you choose, if you wish to send a complete invitation package, it will still include certain items. You can add to these with other standard items. And, of course, if you wish, you can always add personal notes, photos or other inclusions to anything you send.

Your Basic Invitation Set• Central to the package is the invitation, enclosed

in an inner envelope with the guests’ names (formal or informal). Th ese are sent in the outer, or mailing, envelope, which is addressed and stamped. Th ese three — invitation, inner envelope and outer envelope — are always sold as a set.

• Also into the mailing envelope goes the small response card, in its own pre-addressed return envelope with 1st class postage.st class postage.st

If you are inviting all guests to the reception, a separate invitation to the reception is not used. Th e words “Reception Immediately Following,” are added at the bottom of the ceremony invitation, along with the location name.

Th at’s the “basic package.” Your task is to choose the style you like and decide on the wording. Th ere are literally thousands of styles from dozens of companies. thousands of styles from dozens of companies. thousandsYou can certainly fi nd the perfect set for your wedding day. If you want something special, though, you can

have it created just for you by a graphic artist, or do it yourself on your computer.

Extra MessagesAlong with the invitation and response, you can

also enclose map cards, special seating cards, etc. Map cards are handy for out-of-towners. Special seating cards may or may not be needed, especially since you can put a handwritten note on anyone’s invitation and instruct your ushers and groomsmen about it.

Handy Additional ItemsTh ough you don’t send it in the invitation package,

the “informal” card is something you can order with your invitations, in the same style, and sometimes get a price break for ordering it with the other items. Th e informal is the same size as a response card, with its own envelope. Informals are used as Th ank You’s after the wedding, or for any special note you want to write. Your names are imprinted on the front of the card. (Use fi rst names if you want to use them before and after the wedding, or “Mr. and Mrs.” if you will use them only after the wedding.)

Announcements If you are eloping (for example) and you just want

to let everyone know you are now married, these are what you use. Th ey are available in the same styles as invitations; the wording is what changes. Th ey are mailed on the wedding day. Announcements are also used for small, private local weddings.







WordingTh is is something that you don’t need to worry about

... unless you want to. Th e proper wordings for just about every kind of invitation and family situation can be found in the front of invitation catalogs.

When to Order and SendOrder your invitations at least four months before the

wedding date, and get them to your guests at least a month before the wedding. Set your RSVP date for two weeks prior to the ceremony. For far-away guests, be sure to send them a “save the date” card so they can plan to attend.

AccessoriesIf you don’t have time to search a store for your

accessories, here’s a time saver: Every invitation catalog offers napkins, candles, inscribed toasting fl utes and goblets, cake knives, guest books, and so forth. By buying through the catalog online or at a store, you will save time, and the store personnel where you order will receive it all and call you when it’s in. (Or, they can have it all drop-shipped directly to you.)


CeremonyMusic

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The ceremony, if it follows a traditional script, will have specifi c sections, with

changes in the music used to help diff erentiate them. Th e wedding is normally divided into the Prelude, Processional, Ceremony, Recessional and Postlude. Even if you don’t consider your ceremony “traditional,” your musical choices can still mark these sections.

Th ough the setting of your ceremony will partly determine the type of music and instrumentation you have, the ceremony itself will still be divided musically into those same fi ve parts.

Th e Prelude, or seating music, usually consists of quiet instrumentals, but it may also include vocals. (In Catholic Masses, the Avé Maria is sung near the end of the Prelude). Th e Prelude starts about 30 minutes before the scheduled ceremony time. It continues as the various family members are ushered into the family seating, and it may end with a pause and a special piece as the Bride’s Mother (the guest of honor) is seated.

After the seating, your Processional music Processional music Processionalbegins, announcing that the wedding party is about to enter; it traditionally ends with your own special piece of music, cuing the guests to rise when your mother does as you pause at the head of the aisle with your escort.

During the Ceremony, your music can be just about anything you want, as long as it is allowed by the offi ciant or the staff of your ceremony location. Ask these people if there are musical restrictions you should know about. We’ve seen choruses, rock bands, and steel drum bands.

After you are pronounced husband and wife, and the offi ciant introduces you to the guests,

your Recessional music will see you out of the Recessional music will see you out of the Recessionalsanctuary. Th e Recessional is really a personal selection, often a joyful and upbeat piece.

As your guests exit, the Postlude continues Postlude continues Postludeuntil they have all been ushered out.

If your wedding ceremony is inside, the music will be more easily controlled than if you marry outside. If you lean toward the traditional, your choices can include the various popular classics, such as Trumpet Voluntary (Purcell), Th e Bridal Chorus (Wagner), Th e Wedding March (Mendelssohn), Canon in D Major (Pachelbel), etc.

If your ceremony is outdoors, you can usually fi nd a DJ who has these or other standard pieces on CD, or you can locate a talented string quartet or brass ensemble to play them. Outside, you can normally use diff erent kinds of music than those allowed inside houses of worship. You might need to amplify it to overcome ambient noise, depending on the location.

As mentioned, your ceremony music can be special or traditional songs performed by friends or a professional. If amateur friends are performing, do them a favor at the rehearsal, and let them rehearse their entire piece. It will help to calm their nerves if they don’t normally sing or speak in public.

For musicians you hire who don’t attend at the church you’re using, you might want to be sure they will be dressed appropriately; they’re right up there in front of everyone, the center of attention for a few seconds.


Reception Music & Entertainment

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Though the musical choices made for your ceremony will customize

it for you and your guests, it will probably follow the same general guidelines as many other ceremonies. Receptions, on the other hand, vary quite a bit: Each one is a party designed by each couple. Music is part of the entertainment, and entertainment must be part of the music. It’s often said that the music is what makes it a party.

But what comes fi rst, the guest list, or the music? Probably, the guest list!

If your reception guests are middle aged, you might want to provide them with a walk down memory lane, and play a mix from the Sixties and Seventies. If they are a classy crowd, maybe a chamber ensemble during dinner and a DJ or band for dancing? And if the group, or your family, is Hispanic, why not a Mariachi Band during dinner, followed by a DJ or dance band to fi nish the reception.

Basically, you’ll choose between live music and a DJ for the major entertainment at your reception. In addition to these, many couples will also have dinner music: A harpist, classical guitarist, a strolling mandolin or a or a mariachi group can play during dinner and add a touch of variety until the dancing starts.

You might also consider adding some other sort of entertainment at the very beginning of your reception. A magician or even jugglers are popular with some couples, and they are defi nitely a hit with young kids (and their parents).

But your main concern is the music that will last throughout the reception.

Disc Jockeys are the most popular choice in most locations these days. Th ough they don’t off er the entertainment value of a live band,


they arrive equipped with a complete CD collection, wireless microphones, top-notch sound systems, appropriate attire, and an attitude of helpfulness. Th ey carry just about every tune you can think of, and a few thousand you’ve probably never heard. Often, they’ll also provide special lighting to set up a club atmosphere.

DJ’s can play anything on a moment’s notice: It is usually the version done by the original artists. Th ey hardly ever take breaks, because their work isn’t as tiring as playing a musical instrument. Th ey can become a source of entertainment in themselves, and certainly more than just someone to “spin discs.”

Some DJ’s use computers and iPods® to generate their sounds; others use CD’s. Regardless of their media, they are all using the same digital music; it sounds the same whether

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from a CD or a computer’s hard drive.Th e lighting eff ects off ered by

some DJ’s can really enhance the party atmosphere of your reception, giving it the feeling of a dance club.

If DJ’s you interview off er to be your “Master of Ceremonies,” ask them exactly what they like to do as MC. Most are great to work with; some

aren’t. A guy with a microphone and an uncaring or “Animal House” attitude can disrupt your reception quickly.

Your other choice, if you want dancing, is to have a dance band or small orchestra. (If you don’t plan dancing, a string quartet or a talented duo can provide a nice background sound.)

As you know, bands come in all varieties. To try to describe them here would be impossible. A couple of tips may help you, though: When you call the band, ask for a demo tape, and also ask if they are playing locally where you might be able to hear them. Some bands, though, are so well-known that their reputation is enough.

If you need to hear them, it’s easy enough to ask them if they’re doing another wedding reception soon, and ask if you might stop in for a minute just to hear them play. Nobody will mind. While you’re there, you can

check out how that reception is going too! (You might get some new ideas for things to do with your own decorating, lighting, and so forth.)

Th e only downside with bands is that they can be louder than DJ’s. With live instruments, it isn’t as easy to “turn it down” as it is with a DJ’s setup. Most of the folks who are going to dance will enjoy the volume. But, there will be some people in your crowd who just want to talk with friends, and others who are part of the older set of guests. It isn’t a problem to accommodate everyone; just seat the older folks away from the bandstand and dance fl oor so they can enjoy the music from afar. Th ey’ll appreciate it, and it won’t put a damper on your dancing in any way.

Whatever you decide on for own reception, ask lots of questions, shop carefully, and try to make a choice that will please your guests, too!


Officiants Your offi ciant will set the tone of your ceremony, and will speak words that

you might remember for years. The outward spiritual feeling of the day will arise out of the type of ceremony you decide to have, and this, too, will be determined partly by the person you choose to perform the ceremony.

If you are marrying in a church, synagogue or temple, you would normally use the clergy in authority there. If it’s a Protestant church, you might have the option of using outside clergy, with approval. This is true in various Catholic parishes as well, with the possibility of having priests from other parishes perform the ceremony in tandem with the resident priest of the parish. In other religions, the same possibility exists, but the rules vary by locale and denomination.

Sometimes, for various reasons, the Church won’t allow you to marry in their building—that is, with the blessing of the Church. If this happens, it’s clear that your plans will have to be changed!

The good news is that, at an outdoor location or another church, you can use an independent offi ciant. In many cases, members of traditional clergy, especially those that are non- or inter-denominational, will travel to the location you desire. When you call an offi ciant, the very fi rst question to ask is whether the person can perform the ceremony on the date you want; the second question is if your location is acceptable.

Your CeremonySome offi ciants perform very short

ceremonies: As short as fi fteen minutes in civil or secular services. (Once you take out prayer and teachings on the spiritual side of marriage, not much is left!) The state requires only that a licensed person ask each of you if you willingly accept the other party, and pronounce you married. It doesn’t take long.

Music: The ceremony location or the offi ciant you choose might place restrictions on your music. Ask all offi ciants you interview if your music is acceptable.



Premarital Counseling: Good advance counseling will discover your views, confl icts, desires, etc. Many confl icts that are uncovered may otherwise surface only after the wedding.

Mixed Faiths? Are you of the same faith? Of no organized faith? If you know how you will handle the issue before you marry, this part of your marriage will be more harmonious, as will the decision of how to handle holidays and spiritual gatherings with your two families. It will also directly affect your ceremony. Along this line, do you want someone of a specifi c Faith, or do you prefer a civil or a non-denominational service?

License Requirements: License requirements are set by the state. See the website of the California Dept. of Public Health (www.cdph.ca.gov) for complete information.

Cost: Sometimes, the pastor “goes with the church.” If you are hiring an outside offi ciant, be prepared to pay more. There is a wide range of costs.

Location Suitability: The offi ciant might place conditions on the location. Some people won’t work in a park or on the beach; others won’t do a ceremony in a church. Ask everyone you interview if your location is “okay” with them.

Special TouchesFor your ceremony, a special touch that can

be added is the release of doves or white pigeons during the ceremony. Some offi ciants offer this during the ceremony. Some offi ciants offer this during the ceremony. Some offi ciants offas an option with their services.


ProfessionalWeddingPhotography It is interesting how much wedding photography

has changed over the years. It’s not only the equipment that has changed; photographers have changed too.

Wedding photography has always been the most interpretive wedding specialty of all. Videographers will claim that their area is interpretive, but the videographer’s art happens after the wedding and reception are “in the can,” so to speak. So, the artistry of wedding video takes place during the editing phase. Th at doesn’t make it any less demanding or artistic; it’s just a completely separate and diff erent function that can result in a beautiful and moving product.

But, the art of still photography is one that requires not only top-notch equipment, but also the photographer’s constant attention, an eye for detail, some knowledge of posing of people, imaginative treatment, technical knowledge of lighting and its eff ects, and more. Still photography only captures tiny slices of life, often less than a hundredth of a second at a time. Even if a photographer shoots four thousand images at a wedding, the total time of the coverage is still less than a minute or two. Eyeblinks. Doesn’t sound like much when you look at it that way, does it?

But, that’s where the art comes in. One of the pioneers of still photography, Henri Cartier-Bresson, defi ned the essence of “snap shooting” as being able identify and capture “Th e Decisive Moment.” Cartier-Bresson defi ned that tiny point in time as “the simultaneous recognition, in a fraction of a second, of the signifi cance of an event as well as the precise organization of forms which gives that event its proper expression.”

You can get the sense of it. It’s the perfect instant when everything comes together to express the meaning the photographer wants to portray.

You might ask, “So what? What does that mean to us about our wedding photography?”

Well, considering that Cartier-Bresson’s display, “Th e Decisive Moment,” is the only photography only photography onlyexhibit ever displayed in the Louvre, being able to choose that perfect moment must be a rare thing. Having the talent to capture that point in time is


valuable, and it shows up in wedding photography in a major way. If you have seen photographic coverages of thousands of weddings, as we have over the twenty years of publishing this magazine, you learn to recognize those weddings where the perfect moments were captured — and those where they weren’t.

Some wedding photographers have that talent, and some don’t. Of course, there is more than one way to capture the moments that move us. Some photographers shoot carefully, waiting for the right moment and capturing it. Others rely on the camera’s ability to fi re its shutter eight or ten times per second, practically insuring that the correct moment is captured.

As an aside: Back in the days of shooting with fi lm, when three hundred photos of a wedding day was a lot, requiring over a dozen rolls of medium-format fi lm and costing the photographer two or more dollars per photo to proof,

photographers had to be more careful what they shot. Without the cheap storage capacity of memory cards, and the luxury of fast, accurate autofocusing lenses, they had to anticipate those moments and be ready to shoot when they happened. Th at’s no longer the case, as almost every wedding photographer shoots with digital equipment.

One tip when choosing a photographer might be to fi nd out if the phtoographer has been shooting for more than ten years. If he or she has been, there are two benefi ts for you. One is that the photographer once shot with fi lm cameras and had to shoot more carefully. If he or she was good at it, the experience will still show in his or her digital work. Another benefi t is that the added years of experience will have made the photographer better in every way at shooting weddings.

Not that a newcomer can’t shoot a good wedding coverage, but those who haven’t “been around as long” are sometimes more






reliant on their equipment and the greater number of shots they can produce.

When you’re examining the work of various photographers, don’t be distracted by huge prints, pretty color or nice frames. Look at each photo itself. Exactly what does it show? Does it capture a meaningful scene at the decisive moment? Or, does it get the Bride’s joyful smile just after it has after it has afterstarted to fade? Does it capture only an embarrassed grin on the Groom’s face and the trail of a tear on his cheek, or does it catch the tear in mid-fall as he gazes into the eyes of the woman he cherishes more than life?

Do you get the diff erence?Why not look for excellence in the

wedding photographers you interview, and not just volume or price?

Long after the cost of excellent wedding photography has been forgotten, its artistic expression will remain.

Your Own VisionWhat is your idea of desirable wedding

photography? Should it show everyone at the wedding, stopping what they’re doing and smiling for the camera? Should it be a collection of stealth shots captured with a telephoto lens, the subjects unaware they’re being photographed? Should it be many close ups? Should it be artsy shots done through the veil of soft-focus fi lters? Should it be all candid photos, or all posed, or some of both? Color? Black and white?

Modern wedding photography is all of the above. You can fi nd anything you want.

And, that’s the key: Finding what youwant.

Th ere are as many ways to photograph a wedding as there are people to photograph them. Every photographer’s style is diff erent, just as every wedding is diff erent.

Your job during this planning and hiring stage is twofold: First, decide what



you like and want; Second, fi nd the person who can provide it for you.

Of course, this is the basic job with every wedding specialty, isn’t it?

But, photography is slightly diff erent.

Th e baker can make three identical cakes, and they will be the same cakes at three diff erent weddings. Th e groom’s rented tux looks the same at every wedding where it’s worn. Red roses are red roses, in every bouquet.

But wedding photography? It is diff erent at every wedding, even from the same photographer. It isn’t just because the tuxes and fl owers and cakes will be diff erent; it’s because wedding photography is an expression of so many things: It’s made up of all of the variables of your day, plus the photographer’s perception and expression of what he or she is seeing. Some weddings lend themselves to close-up photography: Th e people are unaff ected by the camera. At other weddings, the guests might be more private, and to get natural photos of them requires the use of telephoto lenses. (Even this will often change if alcohol is served at the wedding.)

Some couples and families want “family reunion” kinds of photos, showing everyone together in nice lined-up group poses. Others want everyone shown, but in more random groupings. Others want no poses at all.



If you want color or black and white, it’s so much easier than it was in the days of shooting only with fi lm. Now, two mouseclicks in Photoshop® (four clicks, if you want to keep both versions), and you have the choice. Artsy shots? Th e photographer using digital imaging has a full complement of digital eff ects that were not possible ten years ago, and, like color or black-and-white, they can be applied with just a click of the mouse.

Th is digital stuff is amazing, no doubt about it.

But, it’s also dangerous, because good photography still must start with well-done photos. Th at’s where your decision process can get complicated.

Digital photography has brought a lot of benefi ts to photographers and weddings. But, it has dragged along some baggage, too. It’s the same old story: A photographer experienced specifi cally in wedding photography is what will make the diff erence in your wedding photos.

Wherever and whenever your wedding and reception are held, regardless of your camera-shyness or its opposite, the job of capturing it all will depend mostly on how many times your photographer’s skill and talent have been applied to other weddings.

So, carefully look at the albums that are displayed. You have to ask the same questions of yourself when viewing every album, whether the person has 15 years’ experience, or one: If this was my wedding, would I be happy with what these photos show?

If the answer to that question is “no,” move on. If the answer is qualifi ed, such as, “Well, I’d be happy if he would do this kind of pictures, too,” — move on. (Why? Because the photographer’s practiced style will not change on request.)

Wedding photographers are like everyone else. Th ey are ruled by their

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DO YOU NEED THIS LIST?

Maybe ... You might want to circle any photos you want to be certain of getting, so the photographer will know. Most photographers will get everything on the list simply because they tend to shoot a lot. Still, it doesnʼt hurt to be sure. To get a copy of the list go to our website and click “Photo List” on the home page, or just make a photocopy of this. (Or, if youʼve already read the article, just rip the page out!)

To Download This List as a PDF

Go to

www.WeddingAndPartyMag.com

Click “Photo List” on the home page.

PHOTO LIST



habits. A wedding photographer will establish a certain kind of treatment for a wedding, and you’ll be able to see some of the same kinds of photos in each wedding he or she does. Not many photographers make major changes, though it’s easier to add new kinds of shots now that we have digital imaging. Th ere are variations, of course, but most photographers click into a pattern. Th at’s not always a bad thing! It insures that the photographer gets the shots that are essential. Here’s one example: When a photographer shoots the cake cutting, for example, he or she knows how to get the shots that are really required, and will then add the candids of whatever the bride and groom decide to do to each other with the cake. Th e basic way in which it is covered won’t change much with the same photographer. And, most other parts of the ceremony and reception will follow that example.

If you want to see imagination expressed in your wedding photos, choose a photographer whose work shows it. If you want posed photos, choose that photographer. Th e point: Don’t hire someone because you like him or her, and then ask that they change their style. Th is just won’t happen, even if they agree to it!

A contract is essential, just as with all other services. It must specify all payment details, cancellation policy, when the photographer will arrive, how long he or she will stay, whether assistants will be used, how many photos will be shot and how many will be delivered, etc.



Professional Videography

To the vidoegrapher, coverage of a traditional wedding and reception

includes many varied shooting environments. Th ere are cramped quarters in the dressing rooms and waiting rooms before the ceremony, traveling shots during transitions from the dressing rooms to the ceremony site, possibly including indoor and outdoor settings.

Next, there’s the ceremony itself, requiring stationary shooting positions and possibly two cameras (with remote sound-recording capabilities if you want your vows recorded on the master tape). Immediately following the ceremony are fast-moving scenes during your recessional, many hugs and kisses, and the beginning of transportation to your reception.

Next, at a diff erent location — indoor, outdoor, or both — your reception must be covered. It will often include fast-moving action, guest interviews, coverage of dancing in near-darkness, and then your “getaway” — and then you (and your videographers) get to

relax a bit. Th ough most videographers don’t stay for your exit from the reception, some do.

Your wedding videotape can be a treasure if the person or team creating it has the right qualifi cations. Th ey are: Video experience, wedding experience, and good equipment.

Video ExperienceFirst, you will want someone whose video

experience will provide for excellent results in every situation. Each of the ceremony and reception segments outlined above has its own technical requirements. Although modern video cameras are designed to adapt to widely varied shooting conditions, they still require an intelligent, experienced videographer.

Wedding ExperienceYou’ll want to know how long the

videographer has been shooting weddings,

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how many he or she has done, and where they have been. (If none of them were at your chosen locations, or locations similar to them, you might want to see more videographers.) Th e best situation is to fi nd a videographer whose work you like, and who has shot a number of weddings and receptions at the locations where yours will be. (After viewing a tape of one or more of these, you’ll have an idea of how the person handles those locations. You might also get some additional ideas for your ceremony and reception.)

Wedding experience, in general, is absolutely essential. If you happen to choose absolutely essential. If you happen to choose absolutelysomeone who hasn’t done more than a few weddings, you’ll be dealing with a person who asks you questions all day long, misses shooting opportunities, and may miss the best shots by shooting the wrong angles. Th e tape, when you see it, will refl ect all of these shortcomings.

EquipmentTh e equipment your videographer uses

is also important. Equipment has become so sophisticated in the last few years — for shooting and editing — that the results you and editing — that the results you andwill see are as good as broadcast TV.

When watching sample videos, keep in mind a couple of technical details: Dark scenes should not look grainy and colorless; they should still have color and detail. Sunlit scenes with the Bride’s white gown and the Groom’s dark clothing should show detail in the gown. Moving scenes should be smooth and steady, and it goes without saying that stationary shots should be steady.

Do You Enjoy The Samples?If you enjoy the sample videos you see, and

you feel you can work with the videographer, he or she is worth considering.

Ask yourself a question: If this were your wedding video, would you be happy with it and proudly share it with your friends and family?


Ceremony &ReceptionRentals

For your ceremony or reception, you can rent just about anything you need, from complete table

settings with crystal, to popcorn machines to keep the kids busy. Th e items you need, and those you must add, will vary depending on the site selected for your ceremony and reception. It’s a good idea to wait until you have hired your caterer, your fl orist, and others, check with them, and fi nd out what you will need to bring in to complete the picture. It’s just a matter of deciding.

When renting, you might want to check these points.

How To Rent What You NeedAgree on everything well before the wedding day, with

a contract/rental agreement that covers all the essentials. It should specify everything, and it should also allow room for you and the rental agent to add information.

• Delivery: Who will deliver the equipment you’ve rented? Exactly when and where will it be delivered? (Put specifi c addresses and delivery times into the contract.)

Be sure the delivery schedule will give your helpers plenty of time for setting up the equipment. Start with your ceremony time, then work backwards to fi gure out when you need things delivered. For example, if you rent chairs, they must be set up before fl owers can be added or guests can be seated, etc. A small “fl ow chart” might be needed!

• Does everything match? You don’t want square cloths for round tables! Make sure they’re checked. It is the renter’s responsibility to check all of the rented items to be certain they are what you have asked for.© TUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY, AD PAGE 68

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• Check quantities: Count everything and make sure it’s all correct. Th e delivery driver is just fi lling the order as written, so he or she might not know if the quantities are wrong.

• If you need more: If you see that you will run short of something (assuming there’s time to get it) does the company have more you can rent?

• Quality: What if the items you’re renting are not satisfactory? Will the company deliver another table for a bad one? Will they refund part of a charge for unsatisfactory items?

• Most companies are more than willing to advise you on items that fi t best into various locations they’ve outfi tted in the past. But, they can only advise; it is really your choice.

• Is everything almost like new? Rental companies will usually get their best items out for weddings, but it’s still a good idea to check.

• Cleanup: Who will clean up the rental items? Is cleaning included in your fees?

• Pickup: When you’ve fi nished with the rental equipment, it should be picked up at a specifi c, pre-arranged time. Be sure you and the rental agent are clear on this. Don’t have the driver arrive right when you expect your reception to end. It willl be too early, and you might be charged extra for waiting time!


BRIDE’S ATTENDANTS



BRIDE’S NOTES FOR HERSELF

GROOM’S ATTENDANTS



BRIDE’S NOTES FOR HER GROOM


Transportation Tips

Getting there (and getting away) can be loads of fun if you plan it right. Th e choice of mode

might be determined by climatic conditions: Extreme conditions might call for the secure, warm and dry feeling of a stretch limo or Uncle Ted’s new sedan, but if the weather permits, why not consider something more romantic or whimsical?

Th e traditions of wedding day transportation are few. It’s customary to be delivered to the wedding location by your Father or the lady or gentleman who will escort you down the aisle. Th en, of course, it’s customary to leave the ceremony with your new hubby. (How does Hubby-to-be get there? It really doesn’t matter. Tradition doesn’t deal with that at all; it seems that in eons past, it was enough that he would just show up!)

A CarriageIf you think riding in a convertible automobile gives

a feeling of freedom, you’ll greatly enjoy the magic of gliding along in a carriage to the rhythmic clippity-clop of the horse’s hooves. You’ll get lots of waves and smiles, too, so practice your parade wave! If there’s wind or rain, most carriages have a partial roof that will cover you. Of course, if it’s rainy, you’ll be carrying your own umbrella, too.

Carriages, being the type of vehicles they are, can go just about anywhere the horse can. However, carriage and horse normally arrive via trailer, so a longer distance can be easily covered by taking the carriage partway, transferring the carriage and horse to their waiting trailers, driving a bit, and then reassembling the horse and carriage just before arriving at the reception. (Th e process of unhitching and loading into trailers takes less than ten minutes for an experienced operator.)

LimousinesLimousines have lots of room. Th ey’re clean and dry. You

can legally toast with champagne, or any other adult beverage, in them. Th ey off er conveniences such as telephone, TV, and CD sound. Some, though they’re few and far between, have hot tubs, but you probably won’t be interested in those on your wedding day—at least, not until after your reception!after your reception!after

As with other rented types of transportation, be sure to book early. If your wedding will be during Prom or Homecoming season, book as soon as possible. It’s a good idea to book a limo for more time than you think you’ll need, to be sure you have a cushion of time between your required drive times and those of other couples getting married on the same day.



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