CaLIFORNIa WEDS

Transcription

CaLIFORNIa WEDS

Winter / Spring 2009
$3.95
Covering San Luis
Obispo County
Featuring the finest
resources for planning
your dream wedding or
any special event
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R E WA R D S
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
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Timetable
wedding
timetable
Ideally, you will have all
the time in the world to plan your wedding. Realistically, however, there are
careers to manage, meetings or classes to
attend, and the sometimes hectic routine
of daily life. The biggest favor you can do
for yourself in planning your wedding is to
start as early as possible.
California Weds encourages you to
reserve your ceremony and reception locations as soon as you have determined your
approximate wedding date. (The availability
of these locations may determine your
actual wedding date.) Then contact the
businesses whose services you will need.
With them, you can develop a schedule that
Lourdes Beatty Photography
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
will allow time for you to complete everything you need by your wedding date. It will
also allow the professionals the amount of
time they need to do a quality job.
The calendar we have developed is to
serve only as a guideline. Many of you
will have more than twelve months for
your planning, others only a few weeks.
Regardless of the amount of time you
have, organize yourself and carefully plan
your wedding step by step. April, May,
June, September and October are the
busiest wedding months in the Central
Coast area. Top professionals are often
booked for these months well over a year
in advance.
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 3
Timetable
Nine to Twelve Months:
Two to Four Months:
__ Announce your engagement.
__ Select your wedding date.
__ Meet with clergy to discuss premarital
requirements such as classes,
counseling, etc.
__ Create a budget.
__ Determine style of wedding.
__ Choose a bridal consultant, if desired.
__ Select your bridal party.
__ Determine size of guest list.
__ Select and reserve locations for
wedding and reception.
__ Begin shopping for wedding rings.
__ Interview and select professionals
to assist you. Caterer, Baker,
Florist, Musicians, Photographer,
Videographer, etc. Remember top
professionals are often booked a year or
more in advance.
__ Sit for formal portrait.
__ Plan bridesmaids’ luncheon.
__ Groom’s family plans rehearsal dinner.
__ Order wedding cake and groom’s cake.
__ Review details and scheduling with
each service professional.
Six to Nine Months:
__ Decide on your color scheme.
__ Select your gown, headpiece, and
accessories.
__ Choose attire for attendants.
__ Begin planning details of ceremony and
reception.
__ Complete arrangements with service
professionals. Sign contracts and pay
deposits.
__ Begin your health and beauty regimen.
__ Make appointments with beauty
professionals to decide on the perfect
bridal look for you.
Two months:
__ Review details with service
professionals.
__ Review ceremony with clergy.
__ Schedule rehearsal.
__ Make health and beauty appointments.
__ Mail invitations four to six weeks prior
to wedding date.
__ Select gifts for parents, groom,
attendants and others (soloist,
consultant, etc.).
__ Purchase accessories such as toasting
goblets, ring bearer’s pillow, garter, cake
knife, etc.
__ Complete trousseau shopping.
__ Record gifts as they arrive and send
thank-you notes.
Four to Six Weeks:
__ Finalize details with the clergy and all
service professionals.
__ Set a date to get marriage license and
complete other official details i.e. name
change on all credit cards, driver’s
license, change of address forms, etc.
__ Arrange final fittings for you and your
attendants.
__ Ensure that all accessories are in order.
__ Check on men’s formalwear.
__ Complete transportation arrangements.
__ Have groom pick up wedding rings.
One Week:
__ Review final details with service
professionals (florist, baker,
photographer, musicians and any
others).
__ Give caterer final guest count.
__ Confirm honeymoon reservations and
finish packing.
__ Confirm rehearsal dinner plans.
__ Ask someone to help you with lastminute details.
Day Before Wedding:
__ Visit with out-of-town guests.
__ Gather everything you will need for
wedding.
__ Share a quiet moment with your fiancé.
__ Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.
__ Get a good night’s sleep!
The Wedding Day:
__ Allow yourself a moment alone to relax
and let any worrying subside.
__ Be pampered—have hair and make-up
done.
__ Enjoy this beautiful day!
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Four to Six Months:
__ Order invitations, announcements,
thank-you notes and stationery.
__ Finalize guest list.
__ See that all wedding attire is ordered
and fittings scheduled.
__ Mothers should select their dresses.
__ Select and order wedding rings.
__ Shop for trousseau.
__ Select bridal registry.
__ Arrange accommodations for out-oftown guests.
__ Make honeymoon arrangements.
__ Begin addressing invitations and
announcements once received.
__ Have a hair and makeup “rehearsal”
with headpiece in place.
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
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Contents
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s
ON THE COVER:
Katy Armstrong married Pat
Stallcup on a perfect August
day at Toro Creek Barn in Morro
Bay. Katy described the wedding as romantic with a country
flair. Katy and her parents,
Michael and Kathy Armstrong,
renovated the barn themselves
and included many countrychic details like jars of honey
from her parents’ property.
Read more about barn weddings on Page 20.
PLANNING ARTICLES
Setting The Scene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Ceremony and Celebration Locations
Elegant Expressions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Wedding Stationery
Surprising Touches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Rental Items
Photographs by
Manuele Photography
Fashion & Style. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Wedding Attire
Floral Delights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Décor and Trimmings
Fare & AmbiEnce. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Catering
Saying “I Do”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Ceremony, Clergy and Counseling
Planning Makes Perfect. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Wedding Consultants, Directors and Party Planners
Breathtaking Loveliness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Health and Beauty
Just The Right Note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Music and Entertainment
Captured Memories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Photography
Sights, Sounds & Emotions. . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Videography
Circles Of Love . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Engagement and Wedding Rings and Jewelry
Arriving In Style. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Transportation
The Adventure Begins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Honeymoons
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
FEATURE ARTICLES
Simple elegance, rustic charm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Nadia Puma and Ryan Anderson chose a historic barn as
their special place
Written by Rebecca Juretic
Plan for a crowd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
“We thought, the more the merrier.”
Written By Rebecca Juretic
Beach Bliss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
A Pennsylvania couple plans their wedding from afar
Written by Rebecca Juretic
The Groom’s Room. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Hey Guys!
It’s your day too!
Wedding Timetable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Wedding Album. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Directory Of Advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
t
s
California Weds is here
to help you
with every detail
I officially said “I do”
to my knight in shining armor last September in front of my family and closest
friends. Everyone tells you that the day will
be a whirl, but I had no idea how correct
they would be! In the end, our wedding was
absolutely perfect.
What made us so
fortunate to have a wedding without trials and
tribulations? Careful
planning, thoughtful decisions regarding vendors
and taking advantage of
all the resources available
– resources like this bridal
magazine.
California Weds is
designed to help you
plan every aspect of your
wedding. This issue offers
insight into selecting
venues, accommodations
for out-of-town guests,
bridal registries, catering,
rental items, cakes and more – plus profiles
of three couples who were married locally,
couples who have already faced what you’re
undoubtedly going through now.
Recognizing that barn weddings are
becoming more popular, we profiled Nadia
and Ryan Anderson, who created magic for
their wedding in a barn at the Dana-Powers
House in Nipomo. Nadia chose simple but
elegant décor that contrasted nicely with the
rustic charm of her setting.
For those who prefer large weddings,
consider Jamie Jacobson, a nurse, and Joe
Farnsworth, a firefighter, who tied the knot in August to the joy of 430 guests. Read our
story to learn how they made their day special on a large scale without sacrificing the
small details.
And given the current economy, we share
the story of a couple who set a budget – and
stuck to it. Chris and Amy Ballantine of
Pennsylvania were traveling through the
county when they fell in
love with Pismo Beach. So
they found a way to hold
their wedding here, planning from afar with a hotel
and its wedding planner.
Find out how they stayed
within their budget and
still had a perfect day with
family and close friends.
And if you’d like to see
the work of several wedding photographers, check
out our Wedding Album
gallery in the back of this
issue where we feature five
pages of local brides and
Lindsey Hahn Photography
grooms.
If you’re planning a spring or summer
wedding, I know that this is an especially
crazy time for you and hope that our stories
help you in some way. As you cross items
off your to-do list and count down the days,
remember to enjoy every minute of your
journey. I know I did. At the end of the day,
I turned to my new husband and said, “Let’s
do it all again!”
Nicole Smith
[email protected]
California Weds Editor
®
Covering San Luis Obispo County
A McClatchy Co. Publication
Winter / Spring 2009 Volume 2 Number 1
Publisher
Bruce Ray
Advertising Director
Cheryl Cuming
California Weds Editor
Nicole Smith
Cover Art Editor
Kristi Marinelly
Creative Director
Christine Long
Graphic Designers
Holly Farrant
Monty Todd
Contributing Writer
Rebecca Juretic
Contributing Photographers
Robin Barnes
Ashley Blake
Shari Fraser
Lindsey Hahn
Sarah Kathleen
Mike Larson
Jen Manuele
Donn Miyahara
Mark Nakamura
Brian Owens
Colleen Rosenthal
Amy Wellenkamp
Daniel Wilson
Mark Winkler
April Wise
Editorial Office
3825 S. Higuera Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
805-781-7800
For Advertising Information
Terrie Banish, Sales Manager
805-781-7841
For Additional Copies
805-781-7872
SanLuisObispo.com/weddings
Sergio Holguin
805-781-7880
Special thanks, also, to various photographers whose work
appears in the planning articles throughout this issue of
California Weds.
Printer: Publishers Press, Inc.
Although the information in this magazine has been
thoroughly researched, California Weds cannot guarantee
its accuracy. Additionally, California Weds cannot be held
liable for the quality or performance of goods or services
rendered by the advertisers in this magazine.
California Weds is published two times per year.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any
form without the express written consent of the copyright owner.
Stephanie Baker Photography
Locations
The reception is the celebration of one of the most joyous moments in
your life with those closest to you. Filled with tradition and symbolic
foods, the reception weaves family and friends together as they greet you
for the first time as husband and wife.
Because the location of your reception
is one of the most important aspects of
your wedding festivities, it is crucial that you
select and reserve your reception location
well in advance. You can choose from a host
of places such as a church or temple fellowship hall, a hotel ballroom, someone’s home,
a country club or a private party room in a
restaurant.
If you marry during a season of reliably good weather, lake sites, gardens and
arboretums can add beauty to your wedding
reception. Many public parks and historical
sites offer both indoor and outdoor facilities. Check with county parks and recreation
departments throughout the area for availability of public sites.
To create a reception that is uniquely
yours, use your imagination in choosing a
location. Check on the availability of restored
mansions, bed-and-breakfast inns, art or
antiques galleries and even farmhouses.
The number of guests, the style of your
wedding and your budget will play a major
role in your final decision. Do try to include
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
all wedding guests at your reception.
A reception of cake and champagne for all
can be more meaningful than a sit-down
dinner for a few.
In selecting a reception location, keep
these questions in mind: Is there sufficient
space for the number of guests? Is the location convenient, and does it offer adequate
and accessible parking? Will the facility be
comfortable for the guests? Will the lighting
and acoustics provide the atmosphere you
want? If you wish to serve alcoholic beverages, are they permitted? Does the location
provide catering and cleanup services?
Regardless of the location, you want to
be assured of a smooth-flowing reception.
We suggest that you ask a friend to play
the important role of keeping an eye on
the overall reception. If any problems arise,
this person can handle them along with
the necessary professional. This service is a
wonderful gift for a friend to give. It will free
you and your parents to relax and enjoy your
reception as the celebration it is meant to
be.
Locations
When to wed
Whatever dream you pursue, keep the
following in mind when setting your
wedding date:
• There are certain periods during the
religious calendar when weddings are
not performed. Check with your priest,
minister or rabbi if you have questions.
• Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving and
Christmas are times that people want
to spend with their families. You might
want to avoid these dates to ensure that
your friends can come to the wedding.
• If you decide to marry during the
Christmas season, or on New Year’s Eve,
plan well in advance. Everyone is having
a party! Reception locations, musicians,
florists and caterers are often booked
more than a year ahead.
• Check with the Convention & Visitors
Bureau to see if any major events are
scheduled for your wedding date. Outof-town guests will need overnight
accommodations, and hotel rooms may
be booked before you know it.
• Though your wedding will be the
most important event ever, if you and
your groom or family and friends are
avid sports fans, be conscious of major
sporting events that might conflict with
your wedding.
Rehearsal Dinners
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• The nicest aspect of planning a
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still be wonderful. You might even find
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 9
Locations
Rehearsal
party
Cheyenne Schultz Photography
Who is invited to
the rehearsal dinner?
The immediate family is a must; wedding party members and their significant others
should also be invited. Other optional invitees include parents of child attendants, and the
officiant and their spouse. Depending on your budget, you may wish to ask out-of-town
guests to join you as well, especially if they are in town prior to the wedding.
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
One to three days before the wedding, every bride and groom should walk
through their ceremony to ensure that all
will go smoothly. The bride often honors a
good friend by asking her to “stand in” at
this preview ceremony, but the bride herself is definitely present and a participant
in the rehearsal. Everyone in the wedding party, including the couple’s parents,
should attend. Having the group gather
about an hour before this customary
practice is a good idea, as it gives everyone
a chance to socialize and minimizes late
arrivals.
After the rehearsal itself, the wedding
party typically continues the preceremony events at a rehearsal dinner or
party, traditionally hosted by the groom’s
family. The party can be held in almost
any location and can be as formal or
casual as you wish. Many restaurants have
banquet rooms that are designed for such
gatherings, and even though they may
not be able to handle a grand reception,
they are perfect for these smaller, more
intimate celebrations.
The bride, of course, will be the center
of attention at the wedding reception, but
the rehearsal party is often the groom’s
night to shine. Menus and décor can be
coordinated to suit his tastes, and themed
events reflecting his hobbies and interests
are very popular. Many a blushing bride
has enjoyed making this an opportunity
to show off her future husband to friends
and family.
Entertainment is always a hit at a
rehearsal party, and can range from
background music with a band or DJ
to something a little out of the ordinary
(perhaps a magician or a juggling act).
Keep in mind, though, that this is usually
a family affair. Save the spicier entertainment (and comments) for the bachelor
and bachelorette parties.
Locations
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 11
Locations
Types of
receptions
Morning
A wedding held at 9 or 10 in the morning can effectively
be paired with a breakfast or brunch reception in a beautifully
appointed location, often a restaurant or hotel banquet hall.
Guests may be directed to sit at specific tables, or you may prefer
buffet-style serving.
Light but elegant is the key here in both cases. A buffet should
offer an assortment of fresh fruit, croissants, rolls and possibly
quiche, cheese or even cold cuts. A sit-down brunch should be
slightly more substantial, beginning with fruit, then eggs Benedict
or omelets with toast or rolls. Both styles should include a choice of
juices, as well as both coffee and tea.
Wedding cake is appropriately served after the brunch, or you
may prefer to offer exquisite pastries to your guests. It’s early for
alcoholic beverages, so again, you’ll want to keep it light should
you choose to serve alcohol at brunch. Champagne, punch,
mimosas and Bloody Marys are all excellent choices.
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
Luncheon
As with a brunch reception, the luncheon may be a buffet
or sit-down affair. Generally held between noon and 2 p.m., the
luncheon reception usually follows a late-morning or midday
ceremony.
Again, light fare is typical at this reception. Buffets usually include a variety of items, such as chicken, pasta, fruit and
vegetables with dip, sandwiches, cold cuts and assorted cheeses.
For a more upscale feel, many couples add light seafood, such as
shrimp or poached salmon. Your catering professional and reception coordinator will advise you as to what will work best.
If you opt for a sit-down luncheon, you may wish to have a
cocktail hour while you and your new husband greet your guests.
Champagne, cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres are nice for this
social time before lunch. Once everyone is seated, soup or salad,
served with white wine, if desired, is a good way to start the meal.
A fine cut of beef or chicken breast, crepes and vegetables with a
rice pilaf are excellent menu choices. Dessert, of course, will be
your beautiful wedding cake, and your guests should be served
coffee or tea at that time. (If children are present be sure milk
and soft drinks are available.) Espresso or cappuccino is also a
wonderful treat.
Tea or cocktail
A tea reception is usually held between 2 and 5 p.m., frequently in a private home or garden, following an early-afternoon
wedding. Champagne or ginger ale punch, coffee and tea are
Locations
reception, which is held between 4 and 7:30 p.m., following a
late-afternoon wedding. Champagne, wine, punch or beer are
beverages of choice, and some couples opt for an open bar. Hot
and cold hors d’oeuvres may be passed around or set out on buffet
tables for guests to help themselves.
Dinner
generally served, along with tea sandwiches, other finger foods
and wedding cake. This is a time when guests can mingle as they
eat, and most will be standing throughout the event.
Similar to a tea, but a little more formal, is the cocktail
A dinner reception is generally more elaborate than those
held earlier in the day, with a full meal provided for your guests.
It usually begins between 6 and 9 p.m., and frequently starts with
a cocktail hour featuring drinks and light hors d’oeuvres before
the meal. A dinner reception, like the brunch and luncheon, may
be either buffet-style or seated. There is often a more extensive
selection of food, and the items served may be heartier and more
typical of dinner fare.
An interesting and trendy variation on the dinner reception
is the concept of food stations. This type of dinner is similar to a
buffet, but there are several smaller tables set up in different areas
of the reception hall, and each table can carry out a particular
theme, décor and type of food. For example, one table might
feature a wonderful selection of bread and cheeses, with a French
or Italian flair to its design, while another may be decorated with
flowers and hold baskets of fruit. Or perhaps an ocean motifwould be the perfect background for a sculpted ice shell filled
with tantalizing jumbo shrimp. Another nice option with food
stations is an on-site chef carving a roast, or perhaps creating
made-to-order crepes.
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 13
14 |
Tammy Hughes Photography
Locations
“With
reception
immediately
following”
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
Just how does this whole reception thing go
down anyway? When do you dance the first dance?
Cut the cake? Toss the bouquet and garter? While
you should discuss with your catering/reception
manager the events you would like included and
excluded from your reception, here is a general
breakdown of how to pull off one of the biggest
celebrations of your life:
Immediately following your “I dos,” your
guests will head to the cocktail reception. The
cocktail hour lasts for – you guessed it – about
an hour. Your family and friends will enjoy hors
d’oeuvres and beverages while you and the bridal
party are busy with the photographer. A receiving
line is a nice way to meet and greet your guests
before you head off to snap those photos.
Rejoining your group, you’ll make your
grand entrance as husband and wife. Some
couples go right into their first dance, while
others will wait until after the meal.
Next, dig in to dinner. Your catering/
reception manager will assist in getting everyone
to the buffet tables, or servers will attend to the
guest tables. And don’t you forget to eat – you’ll
need the energy!
After dinner, it’s time to party! Head out to
the dance floor and get the merriment started.
During this time, you may opt to have your
father/daughter dance, as well as possibly doing
the bouquet/garter toss, etc.
Finally, it’s on to the cake cutting. Sure, it’s
absolutely stunning, but you know it’s going
to taste as good as it looks! Just be sure to let
your husband know ahead of time if you have a
no-cake-in-the-face policy.
You and your guests will continue to dance
through the night, and you’ll be shocked when
the evening is finally over. After a celebrated
goodbye, you’ll be off to your honeymoon and
to begin your life together.
Indigo Photography
Accomodations
A wedding is one of life’s most joyous occasions, an event you’ll want to share
with friends and relatives. These days, however, your dearest are not always nearest. To be sure out-of-town guests are part of the celebration, consider reserving a
block of rooms for the weekend at an inn or a hotel.
Hotel managers and innkeepers offer this advice:
•M
ake reservations as soon as your wedding
date is set. (See “Wedding Dates” for guidance.) A
minimum of six months’ notice is recommended;
busier hotels and inns may require a year. The hotel
will hold the rooms available (at the group rate) until
a specified cut-off date, usually three to four weeks
before the wedding. After that date, rooms will be
subject to availability and the going rate. Some hotels
provide an updated reservation list every few weeks.
• Many accommodation sites offer special package
rates if you also hold food and beverage functions,
such as brunch, bridesmaids’ luncheon or reception,
on-site. Most also include a complimentary hospitality suite or bridal suite if you reserve a certain number
of rooms. Often, the bride’s or groom’s parents
choose to make the hotel or inn their headquarters
for the weekend of the wedding so they can relax
and spend time with relatives. Don’t forget to include
them, or yourself, in the head count.
• Ask what other services, such as transportation
to and from the airport, are available. If all your
guests are staying at the same hotel, they can assist
each other in getting to and from the various wedding events. Most hotels, however, work with local
•
•
•
•
limousine or executive car services and will be happy
to arrange transportation for your guests, whether
you need one car or a double-decker bus. Hotel staff
can often help with recommendations on everything
from caterers to florists.
C
onsider your guests’ needs when selecting a site.
An inn or bed-and-breakfast offers privacy and a cozy,
homelike environment. Hotels offer other amenities
such as exercise rooms and workout equipment. Will
individual rooms suffice or do you need suites for
families with young children? Can the hotel provide
wheelchairs, portable cribs or baby-sitting services?
Visit each site personally. Is the property attractive
and convenient? Is the staff friendly, helpful and
knowledgeable?
Be
considerate of guests’ travel budgets. Offer alternative places to stay, at several price ranges.
Provide guests with written room and rate information along with a map or directions and phone
numbers. (Some hotels can provide this for you.)
If possible, plan a welcoming basket to make your
guests’ stay as comfortable and convenient as possible. Helpful items might include snacks, toiletries,
fresh flowers, an itinerary of the weekend’s events, a
sewing kit, aspirin and information on local events
and attractions.
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 15
Stationary
Indigo Photography
A beautiful invitation, a heartfelt thank-you note — both mirror the warmth and
happiness you feel at this special time in your life. All your wedding stationery is
a reflection of you and your wedding. It should be chosen with as much care as is
given in choosing your bridal attire.
Invitations
The invitation is the first impression your guests will have
of your wedding. It will play the important role of telling
friends and family that you want them to be a part of this
wonderful day. You want to create good feelings the moment
your invitation is received.
You can select from an assortment of papers, colors and
styles for your invitation. You can remain as traditional as you
wish or create something that is unique to you.
Formal invitations should be ordered at least three
months in advance. When ordering invitations of any kind,
order additional ones in case more are needed to keep as
mementos. Send several to your future mother-in-law, and let
her know when the invitations have been mailed to guests.
Consider ordering envelopes in advance so you can have
them addressed and ready to go. It’s a good idea to order
extra envelopes in case of mistakes in addressing. If you are
having a large wedding, you might want to consider hiring a
calligrapher to assist.
Invitations should be mailed four to six weeks before the
wedding. If your wedding is during the summer or holiday
season, consider mailing your invitations eight weeks before
the wedding as people are likely to be traveling at those times.
When ordering the invitations, don’t overlook enclosures
you need to send along with the invitation. These might
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
include response cards, hotel reservation cards or directional
cards.
Your invitations and other wedding stationery can be
ordered from stationery shops, department stores, specialty
shops and print shops. Consultants there will be able to assist
you in the selection and proper wording. Just as in choosing
a caterer or photographer, shop around. Make sure you have
chosen a professional who will give you expert advice and
service.
Announcements
If you have a small wedding, you may be unable to invite
some friends and relatives. You will want to notify them of your
marriage with an announcement. The announcements should
be mailed immediately after the wedding.
Acknowledgments
Enough can’t be said about the importance of a personal
handwritten thank-you note. First, it assures your guests you
have received their gifts. Second, and perhaps more importantly, it is an opportunity for you to share your delight in
their thoughtfulness. If the thank-you note is written after the
wedding, you will want to let them know how much their
presence at your wedding meant to you or how much they
were missed if they were unable to attend.
Stationary
Make your affair an
inviting one
Of course, you’ve seen or received a wedding invitation at some
point in your life, but chances are you didn’t study all of the parts
that were included. Here are the vital parts to an invitation:
Outer envelope
You’ll need one envelope large enough to contain the invitation plus the other cards that will be included. This envelope
has your guest’s address information and yours, handwritten by
yourself or a calligrapher.
Inner envelope
This envelope protects the actual invitation so that it arrives
in your guest’s hands as perfectly as it left yours. Generally, this
envelope contains the guest’s title and last name only, along with
the offer to bring along a date.
Invitation
The possibilities for wedding invitations are endless. You
may choose a classic look, include some personal wording
or incorporate the theme of your wedding. Photos, ribbons,
beads, fabrics, dried flowers or even various types of paper
stock can make your invitation unique.
Reception card
Unless your ceremony and reception are at the same location, you’ll need to advise your guests where to go for the
celebration after you formally become Mr. & Mrs. If the reception will be held at the same place, this card may be omitted
and the words, “Reception Following” may be added to the
invitation itself.
Response card & envelope
You certainly want to know who can and cannot make it
to your celebration. To determine attendance figures ahead
of time, a small card is placed within an envelope that is
pre-addressed and stamped for your guest’s convenience. It’s
generally a good idea to give an RSVP date, as you’ll need to
provide your vendors with an official head count.
Map & directions
This is not necessarily required, but if there is some distance
between the ceremony and reception, or if many of your guests
are from out of town, be sure to include some basic information on how to get from point A to point B.
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 17
Rentals
Indigo Photography
As in planning any celebration, you’ll want to create a certain ambience for your
wedding festivities. Many caterers and party planners will take care of every
detail, from the menu to the music. But, if you are planning your own wedding or
simply want to add some extra touches, look to a party-rental store.
Everything imaginable is available, such as
tables and chairs, fine china, elegant serving
pieces, gorgeous linens and romantic lighting.
Just a few of these items can create a wedding
that is uniquely you and one that will long be
remembered.
When selecting a rental store, look for quality, dependable service and expert advice. You
should put as much consideration into choosing
a rental store as you would in selecting your cake
decorator or photographer. After all, the service
and the quality of the items the store provides
will play a significant role in the most important
event in your life.
Take time to meet with the service representatives well ahead of your wedding. They can
show you the many items available and perhaps
make some suggestions you might not have
considered.
For instance, the beautiful assortment of
tents available today could convince you that an
outdoor wedding is a must.
While looking around, be conscious of the
mood and style you want to create. Something
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
as simple as table linens can make a tremendous
impression as your guests arrive at the reception.
You can carry out your color scheme by choosing
from solids of every color in the rainbow or add
a bit of the outdoors with beautiful floral prints.
For simple elegance, select lovely lace, damask or
organza cloths.
No one thing can create mood and atmosphere more than lighting. Dramatic candles
or strands of tiny white lights can transform a
regular reception room into a beautiful, romantic
setting. Hurricane lamps or luminarias can do the
same for an outdoor wedding.
You can rent numerous items for your festivities, such as champagne fountains, candelabras
and ice sculpture forms. You may find you want
them all, but keep in mind practicality and your
budget. The items you rent should add to your
festivities, not distract. Be careful not to have too
many things going on. After all, you and your
groom should be the center of attention. Your
service professional will guide you in the right
direction.
Rentals
Rental
items can
help
• Overlays and tablecloths can help
bring color into a room.
• Chair covers aid in bringing an
entire area together.
• Lighting can add drama to any
room. Be sure to inquire about the
many different lighting effects available.
• Pedestals and columns can help
add structure to an open space.
• Not enough serving pieces to
accommodate your guest list? Rental
companies can fill your china, glassware and flatware needs.
• No dance floor on the premises?
No problem! Ask a rental specialist
how you can get one.
Rent and
save
• Save money. Why purchase a
bunch of items you’ll never use again
when you can rent for a fraction of
the cost?
• Save time. No need to run all over
town looking for the perfect tablecloth! Rental companies provide you
with a variety of options, creating a
one-stop shopping experience.
• Save effort. Rely on your rental
company to keep you informed of
latest trends and fashions.
• Save your sanity. Rental companies can assure you dependable
delivery and setup.
Juliet Photography
Lively linens
Times have changed since your mother’s wedding. Linen choices now extend beyond
pale cottons to include whimsical colors, prints, fabrics, and textures – allowing you to
personalize your wedding reception in fun, creative ways. Ask your rental professional
about popular linens such as metallic, crushed velvet, satin or silk.
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 19
I Feature
Nadia & Ryan
By Rebecca Juretic
Photography by
Amy Wellenkamp
Photographers
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
Nadia Puma and Ryan Anderson chose a
historic barn as their special place
Simple ELegance,
RUSTIC
CHARM
Like many kids growing up a small town, Nadia Puma was eager
to shed her rural existence. Nine years after she left her hometown
of Arroyo Grande, it took the prospect of a wedding to bring her
back to her Central Coast roots.
Nadia, her parents, Lenny and Judy
Puma, and her older sister Natalie moved
to Arroyo Grande from San Pedro when
she was 5 years old. From 1985 to 1990,
the family owned and operated Arroyo
Grande Bakery.
“I remember walking down to the
bakery after school and eating cookies,”
she said, recalling that her family quickly
became involved in their new community
and made numerous friends.
After Nadia graduated from Arroyo
Grande High School in 1998, she attended
Simpson University in Redding, then
graduated from Chico State University
with her teaching credentials. Soon after,
she found work in Hanford as an elementary school teacher.
In January 2007, while attending a
church Bible study session, she met Ryan
Anderson, a Seattle native who was stationed at Lemoore Naval Air Station. The
couple started their relationship as friends.
“He would e-mail me and send me little
gifts while he was on his three-month tour
in North Korea,” she said. When Ryan
returned, he and Nadia agreed to go on
their first date. By November 2007, the
two were engaged.
Although Nadia had created a new life
away from Arroyo Grande, she developed
a sudden sentimentality for her hometown. “I always liked the area because it
is so close to the ocean, but I also love the
rugged parts of it,” she said. “Not a lot of
places have both.”
Nadia knew she wanted to be married
in San Luis Obispo County, close to family
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 21
“
I felt like
I’d waited
so long
to get
married, I
wanted it
to be
special,
not like
every
other
wedding
I’d been
to.”
and friends. She also knew she wanted a locale that reflected that
rugged, rural feel she prized.
“I didn’t want to get married in a place that seemed touristy,”
she said. “I felt like I’d waited so long to get married, I wanted it to
be special, not like every other wedding I’d been to.”
Friends turned the couple on to the historic Dana-Powers house in
Nipomo. Built in 1882, it stands on a portion of the historic 37,888acre Rancho Nipomo. The home sheltered six generations of the Dana
family and today is owned by Judi Powers. Most couples are wed at
the gardens at the Dana-Powers house, but Ryan and Nadia were
enchanted by the century-old, 3,500-square-foot barn behind it.
“It just reminded me of where I grew up,” said Nadia. “It was
very relaxed but it had a lot of charm.”
While browsing bridal magazines, Nadia had discovered a new
trend toward weddings held in rural locales. She was captivated
by the way graceful touches are underscored when set against
primitive surroundings.
To keep the right balance between rustic and elegant, Nadia
opted for décor that was simple, yet tasteful. She chose to set a
formal table with white tablecloths, china and silverware.
Twinkle lights and gossamer paper lanterns created an
22 |
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
enchanted aura in the barn. Centerpieces were sublimely simple:
candles in hurricane lamps ringed with a sprinkling of rose petals. A grand chandelier made of Mason jars, a fixture at the barn,
added the right amount of shimmer.
For the wedding party, Nadia and Ryan chose simple, classic
attire – utterly romantic against a backdrop of fields and foliage.
Nadia chose a strapless taffeta ball gown with a chapel-length
train. Her hair was curled and loosely pinned for a natural look
that suited the setting. Bridal attendants wore simple tea-length
two-piece dresses in rose and chocolate brown. Groomsmen wore
traditional tuxedos with chocolate brown vests. Her flowers, a
combination of dahlias and roses, were at once classic and casual.
With so many tasteful details, the couple felt free to add
touches of whimsy. For wedding favors, they placed their favorite
candy in miniature milk tins. Instead of bubbles, they distributed
kazoos and noisemakers for a cacophonous sendoff. And on their
fine china they served a simple, hearty tri-tip and chicken barbecue dinner. “It’s what I grew up eating. Filet mignon just wouldn’t
have fit with the barn setting,” Nadia explained.
The couple was wed on March 29, 2008, at 4 p.m. on the lawn
area next to the barn, encircled by sweeping views of the Nipomo
foothills. Approximately 100 guests attended. After the ceremony,
there was dinner, then dancing that continued until nearly 10 p.m.
“I thought the whole thing was amazing, more than I could
have ever hoped for,” said Nadia.
The Andersons have relocated to Arroyo Grande. Nadia teaches
kindergarten in Santa Maria and Ryan, whose four-year tour in the
Navy ended last year, is attending Allan Hancock College Fire Academy. Nadia now enjoys the area from a grown-up perspective. “I’m
kind of rediscovering things about the area, all the great things to do
here,” she said. “I guess I missed it more than I thought.”
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 23
Photo 209
Wedding Attire
At
t
ire
Every young girl dreams of the day she will walk down the aisle in the
most beautiful wedding gown of all. Now that day is at hand, and the gown is
yours for the choosing.
Selecting your gown
The decision of which gown is best for you, and the
fitting process itself, requires time and patience. Begin
your search at least six months before your wedding
day. Usually, a gown is not purchased directly from the
rack, so you need to allow time for ordering, delivery,
alterations and possible delays.
Start your selection process by looking through
bridal magazines and by going to bridal salons. Consultants there can help you select the style best suited
for your figure and one that is appropriate for the style
of your wedding. Once you have an idea of color, fabric
and style, begin to try on dresses. Go with your instincts.
You’ll know when you have found the perfect gown for
you.
If you choose to have a custom-made dress, find a
reputable dressmaker or designer who will help you create the look you want. To be assured of top quality and
proper fit, allow your dressmaker sufficient time. Many
dressmakers receive requests for wedding gowns more
than a year in advance.
Whether you purchase your gown from a retailer or
have your gown made, you will want to do everything
you can to ensure that your gown looks just right on
you.
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
To help you get that perfect fit, make sure the
lingerie you wear to each fitting is the same type you
will wear on your wedding day. It also is important that
you wear shoes the same style and height as your bridal
shoes. To top off the perfect look, see that your veil
complements your facial features and consists of lace or
fabric that will go with the dress you have chosen.
Attendants’ attire
Your bridesmaids will prepare the way for your
entrance, so you will want their dresses to complement
your wedding gown and yet be different enough to
ensure that your gown stands out.
Once you have chosen your wedding gown, begin
the search for your bridesmaids’ dresses, allowing no
less than twelve weeks for delivery. If possible, all bridesmaids’ dresses should be purchased from the same
shop. When choosing the style of the dresses, keep in
mind your attendants’ shapes and sizes, and stay within
a reasonable budget.
The flower girl and the ring bearer can add delight to
any wedding. They should wear attire that complements
the wedding party. But, perhaps more importantly, they
should be dressed so they feel comfortable.
Wedding Attire
Dress
vocabulary
Lengths
• Floor length: Hemline falls 1/2 to 1
1/2 inches off the floor
• Ankle length: Somewhat shorter
than floor length, falling around the
ankles
• Tea length: Hemline falls between
the knees and the ankles
Styles
• Ball gown: A fitted bodice and
denoted waistline with a full skirt – the
“traditional” bridal gown
• A-line: A versatile, easy-fitting style
with two vertical seams that begin at
the shoulders and follow the A-shape
to a flared skirt
• Empire: A somewhat fitted, raised
waist that falls just below the bustline,
with a slim skirt
• Sheath: A modern, form-fitting
style, which often ends with a flare at
the bottom
• Mermaid: A very slim, figure-hugging dress that ends in a little fishtail
skirt
Trains
• Sweep: Extends 8 to 12 inches
beyond the bottom of the skirt
• Chapel: Extends 31 to 41 inches from
waist
• Semi-cathedral: Extends 41 to 51
inches from the waist
• Cathedral: Extends 61 to 71 inches
from the waist
• Extended cathedral/monarch:
Extends 12 feet or more from the waist
(Princess Di’s train was 25 feet!)
Note: Some trains are detachable. If your
dress has a train that is not, you will need
to bustle it so you can move around freely
at the reception. Tiny hooks sewn into the
back of the dress and the train allow you to
pull the extension up and attach it to your
dress.
Photo 209
Pointers for dress shopping
As you search for your perfect gown, be sure to ask your bridal shop or dressmaker
the following questions:
• Do I need to make an appointment?
• If I have an appointment, will someone be working with just me?
• What lines and sizes does the store carry?
• Will the salon store the dress, or must I take it with me?
• Are alterations done in-house, or are they sent out?
• Can I have the dress pressed, both for my portrait shots and the big day?
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 25
Flowers
Flowers
Flowers symbolize the beginning of your new life together, unfolding with the
promise of growth in love and devotion. Your flower choices will add more than
decorations at your wedding. Whether you wish to create the romantic feel of a
garden or the high style of contemporary design, flowers will enhance the beauty
and elegance of the ceremony and make a gorgeous setting for your reception.
Wedding flowers
When selecting the flowers for your wedding, remember that you may choose from
either fresh or silk flowers. They are both beautiful, and it is really a matter of personal choice.
Probably the best thing you can do in
selecting the right flowers for your wedding
is to find an experienced floral professional. A
professional can guide you and advise you on
what is most appropriate for your wedding.
You should begin interviewing floral
artists at least four to six months before your
wedding. Look for a person who will give you
special attention and listen to your needs
and desires. Remember to ask to see samples
of the artist’s work. Many experienced floral
designers throughout the area offer beautiful
artistry, with an array of flowers from alstromeria to stephanotis, which is acknowledged as
the wedding flower.
Once you have found the designer with
whom you are comfortable and whose work
you admire, discuss tastes and preferences, the
26 |
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
season and style of your wedding and your
budget. Take with you fabric swatches and a
description of your gown and the bridesmaids’
gowns. This will help in the choice of colors
and give a clear idea of the look you want to
create.
Your floral professional can tell you what
flowers are readily available during the season
of your wedding. If you are using silk flowers,
they should also go with the season. If your
ceremony is being held in a church, determine
if there are any restrictions on the type or
number of floral arrangements and decorations that can be used.
Bride’s bouquet
The bridal bouquet should be the most
beautiful bouquet in the wedding party,
whether it’s a single spectacular flower or a
dramatic arrangement of many flowers and
colors. If you use fresh flowers in your bouquet,
you may want to have them preserved as a
keepsake of your wedding.
s
Flowers
Beyond the
bouquet
Once you’ve determined what your bouquet will look like, it’s
time to start thinking about your bridal party. Who should
carry or wear flowers? What is appropriate for each person?
• Bridesmaids’ bouquets can be anything from a miniature version of your bouquet, to varying bouquets for each
bridesmaid. Perhaps your bouquet is a mixture of different
blooms, and you can select a different one for each maid. You
can also incorporate some tulle, berries or another type of
filler in each one as an alternative.
• As a symbol of the special place she holds in your heart,
the maid of honor will surely feel honored if you provide
her with a slightly larger bouquet than those of the other
bridesmaids.
• The flowers for the groom and his attendants are called
boutonnieres, and should be consistent with your bouquet
and worn over his heart on his left lapel.
• As the name suggests, you’ll need a basket full of petals for
your flower girl. Make sure the basket is appropriate for her
size, and remember to let her practice before the big day.
• Also, flowers incorporated into your headpiece or hairstyle
are a great way to tie all the floral elements together.
intimate to elegant creations ~ for your special day
• Your family members will be ecstatic with all the corsage
options available. Gone are the days when corsages looked
like something you got for your prom. Your florist can suggest whether a wristband, a single bloom or even a small
bouquet would be suitable for your occasion.
Specializing
in
Custom
Weddings
Serving Brides Since 1950
Arlyne’s
Flowers Etc.
Consultations
by Appointment
805.466.1136
6485 Palma Ave,
Atascadero, CA
Imagesmith Photography
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 27
Catering
The caterer is the most important person in putting your reception together.
Your guests will look forward to the reception as a time to share in your
happiness and celebrate with food and drink. Whether you serve champagne
and cake, or have a formal sit-down dinner, it is essential that you hire a caterer
whose services will meet your needs.
Caterers today offer a wide variety of menus and
services. You will find caterers ranging from those
who provide a simple light fare to those who offer full
service including elaborate cuisine as well as ambiance.
The full-service caterer will assist you with many of the
details which create the atmosphere for your reception
with decorations, table linens, beautiful serving pieces
and in some cases, even music.
The time of day, the location of your reception, the
number of guests, and your budget will help you determine the services you will need and the type of cuisine
you will wish to serve. After determining your specifications you can begin looking for the caterer best suited
to meet your needs.
A great deal of planning and special attention need
to be given to the reception; therefore, it is wise to
select a caterer as early as possible. If your reception is
being held at a hotel, catering services will probably
be provided by hotel staff. Regardless of which caterer
you might choose, there are certain questions you will
want to ask of any caterer before you make your final
selection.
What menu selections are available? The most
important thing is that the caterer prepares the type
28 |
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
of cuisine you wish to serve your guests. You might
choose anything from a light brunch to an elaborate
sit-down dinner, depending on the time of your reception. Ask the caterer what the specialties are and what
might be recommended for your particular reception.
Does the caterer provide full service? Does service
include food and drink preparation, wait staff, place settings, centerpieces and set-up and clean-up?
What is the complete cost of the catering service?
Does the cost include delivery charges? Are there
charges for overtime? What type of deposit is required?
Remember to ask about such items as gratuities for
service people, and charges for cake set-up, cutting and
take-down.
Once you have chosen your caterer, discuss all the
necessary details and put the catering specifics in writing. You should include costs and your estimates for the
number of guests. Both you and the caterer should sign
the agreement.
In the months and weeks before your wedding, work
hand in hand with your caterer. This person will play the most
significant role in making your reception a celebration to
remember for a lifetime.
cw
Catering
A reception to remember
These ideas will leave your guests with a good taste in their mouths.
• Focus on your favorite foods and take them up a notch. Try a fajita or burrito
station, where guests can personalize their plate using sautéed onions, red and
green bell peppers, tomatoes, cheese, black olives, avocado and black beans.
•Surprise loved ones by having your caterer incorporate a family recipe in
the menu. Family will be delighted and your caterer will never divulge the recipe.
• Play up the nostalgia. Serve one or two menu items the bride and groom’s
parents enjoyed at their own wedding receptions.
• Add a new twist on foods you love. Create a California-Asian fusion with
smoked salmon rolls wrapped with avocado and cucumber.
• Choose a regional, traditional food with a modern slant. One idea would be
Santa Maria-style tri-tip with garlic mashed potatoes and fresh grilled vegetables.
• Offer champagne and fruit to guests as soon as they arrive at the reception
venue.
• Invent a specialty drink and tie it in with the theme of the wedding, honeymoon location, or ethnicity of the bride and groom.
• Place a dessert tray on each table for guests to enjoy before the cake is cut.
William Harris Photography
Elegance, quality and
20+ years of experience
Phoenix Fine Catering
“The food was superb, the staff outstanding.
I will recommend Phoenix Fine Catering to everyone”
~ Channon Clagg
Having an small, intimate event or a 500+ person extravaganza?
We’re equipped to handle anything from appetizers to a gourmet feast!
• Menus customized to your needs
• We handle all the details from setup to cleanup
• Our seasoned staff is proud to offer the best service in town!
Photo courtesy Colleen Rosenthal Photography
Proudly Serving the Central Coast Since 1987
(805) 544-4889 www.phoenixfinecatering.com
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 29
Catering
Setting up the bar
Wherever your wedding reception will be held, it’s good to know the basics of setting up the bar. You’ll need to have an idea of what bar
types are available, the number of bartenders you should hire, which beverages to have on hand, and how many drinks to offer each guest.
You will probably choose a bar based on what appeals to you, as well as your budget. There are three basic bar types to consider:
• The host bar: You should plan
on two to three drinks per person, and keep in mind that you
will be paying for all drinks that
are poured, whether or not they
are consumed. 
• The open bar: The host pays a
flat, hourly fee per guest, no matter how many drinks are poured.
Kristin Vining Photography
• The cash bar: Guests are asked
to pay for their own drinks. Cash
bars are generally not acceptable at wedding receptions. Your
guests should not have to pay for
anything.
Locally Made Organic Chocolate Truffles
... for your Wedding Favors.
805.544.7759
weetearthchocolates.com
www.s
Flowers by: Bella Fine Flowers
30 |
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
Photo by: Studio 101 West
The number of bartenders you hire depends on the services offered by the location or caterer, how many guests are
expected, and what you can afford. You should plan on at least
two bartenders for every hundred guests. Since guest counts
vary, ask your event manager or caterer for advice.
If you are having your reception at home and serving beverages yourself, you’ll want to talk to a caterer or wine merchant
who can recommend a variety of wines and liquors in different
price ranges. They can advise you on the current trends, offer ideas
for types of beverages to serve, and help to determine how much
you will need.
If you have a small budget, consider restricting the times you
open the bar. Set specific consumption targets, such as a cocktail
hour, the toast and/or after dinner. Be sure other beverages – tea,
water, coffee and soda – are available.
Offering only what is liked by your friends and family is also
a good way to save money. Yet another cost-cutting strategy is to
employ waiters to pass drinks or cocktails on a silver tray instead
of having your guests go to the bar for their beverages. Ask your
event manager for advice in helping you to customize a bar.   
Some prefer not to offer alcohol, but you can still have a bar.
It is perfectly acceptable to serve sparkling cider, sparkling water,
bottled water, soda, tea and non-alcoholic mixed drinks. If you are
sharing the expense with family, or if they are footing the entire bill,
it’s polite to acknowledge their wishes when you can. But the most
important thing to remember is that you should do what makes
you happy.
Cakes
One of the richest, and certainly most delicious, of wedding traditions is the
wedding cake. Whether you will celebrate with a few close friends or a party of
300 guests, the wedding cake can be a glorious centerpiece to the festivities.
In today’s world of choice and variety,
the traditional, tiered, white wedding cake
has given way to an assortment of flavors,
such as chocolate mint, hazelnut and
cheesecake, and to many different designs
and shapes. Influences of other countries
have brought us wedding cakes decorated with luscious buttercream, as well as
elegant rolled fondant.
Fresh flowers adorn many wedding
cakes; others are decorated with handmade
marzipan flowers. These gum-paste flowers
are edible or can serve as keepsakes, ideal
for use on an anniversary cake.
You may already have an idea of the
perfect wedding cake. For more ideas, you
can look through bridal magazines and
cake decorating books. Most bakers will
have photos of their work, which might
spark new ideas for you.
Whatever you can dream, someone can
probably create it, but do keep practicality and cost in mind. Pay careful attention
that your cake reflects your wedding style
and complements your color scheme. The
flavor and icing also should be appropriate
for the season of the year and the weather,
particularly if the reception is held outside.
Reception sites often provide wedding
cakes. Otherwise, you will want to hire a
professional cake designer.
When selecting a cake designer, you
should plan ahead at least three to six
months. The more sought-after bakers will
be booked early. Ask to see actual wedding
cakes they have prepared or pictures. You
might even have a chance to sample flavors.
Establish what services are provided,
such as delivery and setup and exactly
what is covered in the cost. The price of the
wedding cake itself can vary, depending on
the size, flavor and intricacy of the design.
Your baker will help you in determining the
size of cake needed for your reception.
Regardless of how large or small, simple
or intricate your wedding cake, it is a treat
for your guests and a symbol rich in tradition. As you and your groom share the first
piece of cake, it symbolizes your willingness
to share your lives with each other. May
your life together be as delicious as the
cake.
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| 31
Joe &Jamie | Feature
By Rebecca Juretic
Photography by Remember
When…Storybook Photography
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
PLAN FOR A
CROWD
“We though, the more the merrier.”
When Joe Farnsworth proposed to Jamie Jacobson,
the Arroyo Grande couple predicted that their hometown
wedding would be well attended.
As it turned out, that was an understatement.
The couple exchanged vows on Sept. 13 before
a vast assemblage of 430 friends and relatives.
In a way, Joe was marrying the girl next door,
except for one thing: for six years, they lived on
the same street, but rarely crossed paths. They
both attended Arroyo Grande High School –
Jamie in the class of 1999, Joe in the class of 2001.
“We knew of each other in high school, but
we were always dating other people and doing
our own thing,” Jamie explained.
After high school, Jamie began studies at the
Cuesta College registered nursing program and
Joe attended Allan Hancock College’s Fire Academy. Both continued living at home.
And then something remarkable happened:
they began to notice one another.
“We would see each other in passing,” said
Joe. “I would always make it a point to stop and
say hi to Jamie when she was out running.”
During one of those friendly exchanges, Joe
mustered up the courage to ask Jamie on a date.
Since then, the two have been inseparable. Four
years after their first date, Joe presented Jamie
with an engagement ring on Christmas Eve, 2007.
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 33
“
I was very
surprised because
we had talked about
it but I wasn’t
expecting anything
that soon.”
“I was very surprised because we had talked about it but I wasn’t
expecting anything that soon,” Jamie reminisced. “It was a very exciting and emotional time.”
Both knew immediately that a small wedding was out of the question. Joe is a fourth-generation county native with a large extended
family in the area. Jamie’s family is spread out among six states, but
most were eager to travel for the occasion. The couple also wanted
to invite their work friends. Joe had become a seasonal firefighter
for the U.S. Forest Service and a reserve firefighter with the Arroyo
Grande Fire Department, and Jamie was a registered nurse in the
emergency department at Marian Medical Center in Santa Maria.
“We narrowed it down but there were still 500 on the list,” said Jamie.
“We didn’t want to exclude anyone. We thought, the more the merrier.”
There were two immediate challenges in planning the sizeable
wedding: finding venues large enough to accommodate the group,
and staying within a reasonable budget.
As for the wedding site, they opted for a traditional ceremony at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Arroyo Grande,
which seats 470.
Finding a reception site proved significantly more
challenging. “My mom and I went to a bridal fair and most
places maxed out at 300,” said Jamie.
A generous offer saved the day. Family friends, Chris
and Pat Smith, offered their Corbett Canyon ranch as a setting for the reception. “We loved it because it’s this rustic
horse ranch with two pastures, so we could be outdoors
and there would be plenty of parking,” said Jamie.
Both families teamed up with the couple to pay for
the wedding. Throughout the process, Joe and Jamie were
cognizant of the need to economize. They opted to limit
children at the wedding to those within the family and
bridal party. They rounded up friends and family to help
prepare the rural reception site – a long and labor-intensive
job.
As it turned out, the most critical key to keeping costs
down was all in their attitude. “We’re not fancy people,”
Jamie said. “We were okay with a laid-back wedding.”
So they hired the Arroyo Grande Optimist Club, of
which Jamie’s father is a member, to prepare a tri-tip
barbecue at a reduced rate. Instead of fancy china, they
purchased paper plates and plastic wineglasses, saving big
on rentals. And they kept decorations simple: gerbera daisies in mason jars, candles, and strings of white lights that
added a fairy-tale twinkle to their reception tent.
Instead of extravagance, the couple opted to infuse
the day with personal touches. At the noon wedding, the
two junior groomsmen (they opted against ring bearers),
aged 5 years and 10 months, rode down the aisle in a fire
engine pedal car. They baked sugar cookies shaped like
fireman helmets and nurse hats for wedding favors. They
even scheduled a brief photo shoot of the wedding party at
Joe’s fire station, what Joe refers to as his “home away from
home.”
Any lingering doubts about inviting such a vast crowd
surely vanished when the newly-married couple arrived at
the reception to a colossal roar. “Everyone was screaming,
yelling, clapping,” said Jamie. “It was overwhelming – in a
good way.”
The couple’s honeymoon in Maui was an opportunity to
exhale after the frantic preparations of the previous weeks.
But the Farnsworths, who have settled into their home in
Nipomo, have no regrets. “We would do it all over in heartbeat,” said Jamie. “Having so many people there made us
feel very loved. It was the right thing to do for us.”
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| 35
Ceremony
No other facet of your wedding is as important as the ceremony. The joy of
receiving your engagement ring, the thrill of finding the perfect gown, the
excitement of the reception, the nostalgic father-daughter dance, the romantic
honeymoon spot ... these are the dreams of every bride-to-be.
But it is the serious questions and answers of true
commitment that bring home what marriage is all about,
gently nudging your dreams into the background to
make your wedding a reality.
Some couples choose to have a ceremony that
includes aspects of their religious heritage. If you or
your fiancé are members of a church or synagogue, you
should be in touch with your clergy soon after you are
engaged. Discuss what is required by your religion for
your wedding to be recognized. 
Many churches and synagogues require premarital
counseling. Even if yours does not, you should enroll in
counseling where it is available. It is one of the best things
a couple can do to help make their marriage strong.
Finding a church or synagogue
If you want a church wedding, the obvious place to
start is with your own religious institution. Most of them
are glad to accommodate their members; some will
accept nonmembers. It’s important to select your site and
confirm a date well in advance.
If you or your fiancé are not affiliated with a church or
a synagogue, you should be able to find a community
chapel or other location that will meet your spiritual
needs. Colleges frequently have on-campus chapels, and
special wedding chapels cater exclusively to couples
who don’t want a full church wedding but feel the need
for something beyond the pronouncement of marriage
by a courthouse magistrate.
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In the military? Consider the base chapel.
If you are unable to find a house of worship in which to
marry, some lovely alternatives include gardens, lakesides,
community parks and historical sites. Ask your wedding
consultant for guidance.
Choosing an officiant
When a bride and a groom have different religious
backgrounds, two members of the clergy may officiate,
with one representing the bride’s faith, the other the
groom’s.
Today, most religious leaders of all faiths understand
that a dual ceremony is more than merely homage to
each individual’s religious heritage; rather, it’s an expression of acceptance and blending of a couple’s individual
spiritual values.
If a bride and a groom choose to have a ceremony
outside a house of worship, some priests, ministers and
rabbis are available to officiate. Remember that fees are
involved, no matter where you are married or by whom.
Be sure to discuss fees, including when and how they are
to be paid. The groom is traditionally responsible for paying the officiant, the organist, the soloist and anyone else
providing services at the ceremony.
Regardless of where you marry or who performs the
ceremony, it is important that you and your fiancé have
discussed your values with each other and have come to
understand that spiritual sharing is an important key to a
long and successful marriage.
Ceremony
What are California’s
marriage license requirements?
According to the California State Center
for Health Services, you do not need to be a
California resident to marry in California.
Only an unmarried man and an unmarried woman may marry in California.
Marriage by proxy is not allowed in
California. California Family Code, Section
420(a), requires the bride, the groom, the marriage officiant and the witness, if applicable, be
physically present together in the same location for the marriage to be performed.
Blood tests are not required to obtain a
marriage license in California.
Both parties must appear in person and
bring valid picture identification to a county or
city clerk’s office to apply for a marriage license
in California.
Valid picture identification is one that
contains a photograph, a date of birth and an
issue and expiration date, such as a state-issued
identification card, a driver’s license, a passport
or military identification. Some counties
also may require a copy of both parties’ birth
certificates.
If you have been married before, you
will need to know the specific date your last
marriage ended and how it ended – death,
dissolution, divorce or nullity. Some counties
may require a copy of the final judgment if
your previous marriage ended by dissolution
or nullity.
Marriage licenses are valid for 90 days
from the date of issuance. If you do not get
married within 90 days, the license will no longer be valid. You must purchase a new license.
Many county clerks in California perform
civil marriage ceremonies in their offices. For
further information regarding civil marriage
ceremonies, contact the county clerk’s office to
find out if it provides the service.
California Family Code, Section 400, states
that the people authorized to solemnize marriage ceremonies in California are:
• a priest, a minister or a rabbi of any
religious denomination
• a judge or a retired judge, a commissioner of
civil marriages or a retired commissioner of
civil marriages, a commissioner or a retired
commissioner or an assistant commissioner
of a court of record in this state
• a judge or a magistrate who has resigned
from office
• any of these judges or magistrates of the
United States:
• a justice or a retired justice of the U. S.
Supreme Court
• a judge or a retired judge of a court of
appeals, a district court or a court created by
an act of Congress, the judges of which are
entitled to hold office during good behavior
• a judge or a retired judge of a bankruptcy
court or a tax court
• a U. S. magistrate or a retired magistrate
• a legislator or a constitutional officer of
California or a member of Congress who
represents a district within California, while
that person holds office
Fees and hours of issuance for a
marriage license may vary by county.
Contact a county clerk or recorder’s office
for the information by going online at www.
dhs.ca.gov.
The person solemnizing the marriage must
return the original marriage license to the
county clerk or county recorder as applicable
within 10 days of the date of the ceremony.
Addresses should be on the county Web site.
You will not receive a copy of your marriage license after you have been married
unless you request and pay for a certified copy
from the county clerk or county recorder as
applicable.
You may access an application to request a
certified copy of a marriage certificate at: www.
dhs.ca.gov/publications/forms/pdf/vs113a.pdf.
All information on the marriage license
must be legible, unambiguous and reproducible. Do not change any information on the
license, as that will require the payment for and
issuance of a duplicate marriage license.
Contact the county clerk’s office if you
have questions about completing the marriage
license or have incorrect information contained on the marriage license.
For more information go online at
www.dhs.ca.gov.
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 37
Consultants
Planning a wedding can be fun. But it’s difficult to juggle your career, go shopping,
hire suppliers and stay on budget. It’s even more complicated if you live in
one city, but your wedding is in another. Fortunately, wedding consultants and
directors are ready to lend a hand.
Wedding consultant
If you need someone who knows the ins and outs of
planning weddings, look for a wedding consultant. For
these experts, organizing a wedding is routine — and
they can do it within your budget.
While services vary, a wedding consultant usually
offers one-stop shopping for busy brides. You decide
what you want handled — just a few details or the
entire event — and your consultant will do the legwork. This professional knows the best suppliers, such
as florists, caterers and DJs, and knows where you’ll get
the best value for your dollar. A wedding consultant can
track down a site for your ceremony and reception and
can attend your rehearsal, ceremony and reception so
you don’t have to worry about organizing the events or
solving last-minute problems.
Hire your consultant early — even a year in advance.
When you interview a consultant, ask about references,
experience and fees. Typically, a consultant requires a
deposit and a contract. The fee is usually a percentage
of the total cost and is included in the budget. Because
you’ll be working closely with your consultant, be sure
you’re comfortable with this person.
Tell your consultant two things first: the ideas you’ve
collected and the budget you can afford. You’ll be able
to know almost immediately what will work and what
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
won’t. You can adjust your plans, then let your consultant handle the arrangements.
Wedding director
A wedding director focuses on the rehearsal and the
ceremony to ensure that your wedding runs smoothly.
While some wedding consultants also provide directing services, some directors are volunteers or church or
temple staff members who help brides plan an appropriate worship service and comply with regulations on
flowers, music and other concerns.
Some places of worship will not allow an outside
wedding director. If your church or temple requires an
in-house director and you’re working with a consultant
who also provides directing services, sort out early
on who’s responsible for what. The wedding director
of a church or temple generally has the last word on
whether your plans are acceptable.
Duties vary at each church, so ask your director what
can and can’t be done for you. Most, by the way, charge
a flat fee, but some charges may differ depending on
what responsibilities are agreed upon. Ask.
Even if your wedding is being held at a location
other than a place of worship, it is still important to have
a wedding director. These professionals are key to making sure everything goes as planned.
It finally happened. He popped the question
in a storybook proposal and you responded with
a giddy, “Yes!” The wedding plans are now in
motion, and the appointments are endless.
In the midst of it all, something strange begins
to lurk in your gut. You can’t put a name to the
feeling, but it’s real and becoming more frequent
than you would care to discuss.
Statistics show that 90 percent of prospective
brides will experience various degrees of emotional
and psychological low points during the planning
process. In addition to the myriad decisions that
must be made year prior to the nuptials, the bride
begins closing the door to her single, independent
lifestyle, and moving from selfish to selfless thinking. Emotional symptoms that can result include
sleepless nights, panic attacks, “bridezilla” behavior
and feelings of loneliness.
Consultants
The emotional turbulence of wedding planning
What’s a
bride-in-waiting to do?
• Find a support system. Family members
and friends may be ill-equipped to help. Some
professional counselors now specialize in counseling brides-to-be.
• Add a good book to your library. Reading a
well-written book by an author knowledgeable
on the topic may help you gain an understanding of what you’re experiencing.
• Come to terms with your feelings – they are real. Not addressing them
during the engagement may affect your success in the early stages of your
marriage.
Planning a wedding is a time of transition. Everyone is asking about the flowers,
the dress and the cake, but no one is asking how you are doing. Staying abreast of
your real feelings and finding solutions are key to making the planning process one
of life’s greatest joys.
Special thanks to Wialillian Howard, president of Wialillian & Company, a Charlotte, N.C.-based special events firm that specializes in the planning and management
of corporate, social and training events.
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 39
| Feature
Chris & Amy
BEACH
BLISS
A Pennsylvania couple
plans their wedding
from afar
By Rebecca Juretic
Photographs by Sonrisa Photography
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
A destination wedding may
seem extravagant – and pricey.
The couple is from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. They met in October 2004 at the party
of a mutual friend. Only a few months later,
But for Chris Ballintine and
they knew they would be married someday,
Amy Davis, choosing to have
until September 2007, after Scott completed
their wedding 2,500 miles
from home proved
to be a budget-saver.
but their official engagement didn’t come
law school.
Meanwhile, in the summer of 2006 while
visiting Chris’ uncle in Southern California,
they decided to take a road trip up the coast
through San Luis Obispo County. A stop for
a stroll along Pismo Beach proved to be a
life-changing experience.
“I just loved how it was a small beach
town where everyone’s so down to earth,”
said Amy. “By January we were telling family
and friends that we were going to get married
there and asking them to be a part of it.”
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 41
“
Everyone was in
vacation mode.
They were happy and
kind of giddy.”
Ideas began brewing about a destination wedding.
Budget, of course, was the first issue. Not wanting to
burden their parents with wedding expenses, the couple
chose to pay for everything themselves. They took out
a home equity loan on their duplex and set a budget of
$15,000.
With limited financial resources, frequent trips to
California were out of the question. So the couple did
most of their planning online, only visiting the area once
before their wedding date August 16.
They considered several venues in the county including vineyards and rural locales, but finally decided on a
beach ceremony, with the reception just steps away at the
SeaVenture resort.
The hotel offered three different packages that
included the beach wedding as well as food and beverages
for the reception. It also included the services of an event
coordinator who Amy found invaluable. “She helped a lot
with details I wouldn’t have thought about,” she said.
The coordinator was able to refer the couple to wedding professionals who were experienced in handling
weddings at the site. From their recommendations, the
couple hired their florist and disc jockey.
In pulling together the myriad details of the wedding,
Chris and Amy found plenty of ways to economize. Amy
purchased her strapless lace gown for $400 at David’s
Bridal, a large bridal store chain. The store also gave her
bridesmaids a $30 discount off their dresses.
The couple purchased many of their accessories on
eBay, including Amy’s hair jewelry and earrings, a vintage
beaded purse, and even the groom’s wedding band. They
put together their centerpieces themselves out of candles,
clear glass holders, and beach sand. Amy, who is a graphic
designer, created many of the printed materials for the
wedding including invitations and programs.
When the couple booked the SeaVenture, they estimated attendance at 50. But, as reservations began to roll
in, the count came to just 30. “I was hoping for 50 people
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
Feature
but we felt the wedding would be a good
size,” said Amy.
As it turned out, having a small group
allowed the couple to do things not otherwise possible. Because they had already paid
for a larger group, they were able to upgrade
to a fancier food and drink package. They
also were able to put together abundantlyfilled welcome bags for each guest, which
included travel brochures, personalized
bottles of wine, candy and snacks.
But the best part of having a small
group, according to the couple, was the
rehearsal dinner. They rented a beach
house in Oceano and invited every wedding guest. After a catered dinner, they
continued the celebration on the beach
around a roaring bonfire. The casual
atmosphere allowed guests to celebrate in
a very intimate way with the couple.
“Everyone was in vacation mode,”
said Chris. “They were happy and kind of
giddy.”
The jovial mood continued on their
wedding day, which went off without a
hitch – something the couple attributes, in
part, to their seasoned event coordinator.
In the end, the couple spent $17,000,
which includes their airfare. Last-minute
splurges that threw them over budget
included a videographer, an upgraded
photography package, two hours of live
music, and $1,500 for flowers, which Amy
puts a premium on for creating atmosphere.
“Toward the end, it was like, this is
my only chance to have this wedding, so I
want to do it right,” she said. “I was happy
with how we spent the money.”
When the couple returned home to
Pennsylvania, they put together a picnic
to celebrate their marriage with those who
could not attend the wedding.
So in the end, Chris and Amy’s destination wedding was a win-win situation
both for guests, and for the newlyweds
who are now hoping to relocate to Pismo
Beach. “It felt like everything we’d ever
dreamed up,” said Amy. “Everything was
perfect and we couldn’t be happier.”
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 43
Photo 209
Health & Beauty
On your wedding day you will want to look and feel your most radiant ever.
Enhance the glow of your love through a healthy lifestyle and some
professional advice.
Be good to yourself
The most beautiful bride is one whose glow comes
from within. To ensure that you are at your luminous
best, there are simple and effective steps you can take,
which are really no more than common-sense good
habits that you should establish anyway, just because
you’ll feel better for it.
Remember to eat well, drink lots of water, exercise
regularly and get plenty of sleep during the same hours
each night. Don’t get into a habit of staying up late one
night and going to bed early the next to catch up.
If you are beginning a new exercise, diet or vitamin
routine, start well in advance of your wedding date.
Not allowing enough time to see results before the
wedding will only cause you to feel disappointed
and frustrated.
For advice on health and fitness regimens, consult
with a professional at a reputable health club or a
nutrition center or contact your personal physician.
You also should remember to take time out. During
the planning stages of your wedding you will be under
substantially more stress than usual. Setting aside time
for yourself each day will help you wind down and give
you a retreat from the wedding whirlwind.
Work out at a health club, take a walk, relax in a
bubble bath or read a good book. You’ll be both rested
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
and rejuvenated and ready to tackle that wedding with
renewed energy and enthusiasm.
Fabulous, fantastic you
Once you’ve decided on a wedding date, you’ll need
to call your makeup artist and your hairdresser. For the
most important event of your life, you don’t want to take
a chance that your stylists will not be available. Be sure
to contact both professionals early to schedule consultations and subsequent appointments.
Considering not using a makeup artist? Think again.
With a day full of events that will be captured in photographs and videos, you’ll want to make sure that your
makeup is applied just right for the lighting and to keep
you looking beautiful throughout the celebration.
As you confer with your hairstylist, discuss exactly
what look you’re trying to achieve. Then start working
toward that end.
This is where early planning is important. If your hair
is damaged or you have color issues, plenty of lead time
is critical to getting your crowning glory looking glorious
again. And if you’d like the more romantic appeal of a
longer style, there’s no time like the present to get those
tresses growing. You might think of it in terms of “Today
is the first day of the rest of your hair.”
Health & Beauty
Fit for a bride
With the goal of minimizing stress, feeling good about yourself and
ensuring that you look your absolute best in your wedding dress, it’s never
too early to start an exercise program.
It’s a good idea to start a fitness routine at least six months prior to the
big day. You are going to be the center of attention, and many dress styles
are strapless, sleeveless or simply more revealing than in the past. If you
haven’t been exercising consistently, you need to work gradually to allow
your body to adjust and minimize the risk of injury. Following are some
tips that will help you look and feel at the top of your form for your wedding day, honeymoon and beyond:
• Start out slowly: Three times a week is a great starting point, and you
can do more once you feel comfortable.
• The 10% rule: When beginning an exercise program, increase
your amount of exercising by 10 percent each week. For example,
begin with 20-minute increments the first week, and increase to 22
minutes the next, 24 the following, etc.
• Alternate routines: Avoid overuse of the same muscles, and keep it
different and fun.
• Join a gym: Meet some workout buddies, get involved in some
classes and get in shape with some top-of-the-line equipment.
• Combine cardio and sculpting exercises: For maximum results, a
William Harris Photography
combination of cardio and sculpting will allow you to lose weight and
tone muscle.
• Hire a personal trainer: A workout expert can help get you going
and take you to the next level, regardless of what your starting point is.
• Keep hydrated: Following a workout, you will require extra water to
replenish fluids that have been lost. Be sure to drink plenty.
Above all, don’t forget to listen to what your body is telling you, and
don’t short yourself when it comes to good nutrition and adequate sleep.
Even though you may have added responsibilities, this time is all about
you, so make the most of it!
Bright White
Wedding Smile
with
ZOOM!®
Whitening System
Keep it fresh
Stock a bag with the following items, and be ready for anything!
•
•
•
•
Breath mints
Deodorant
Hairspray
Bobby pins
•
•
•
•
•
Safety pins Lipstick
Tissues or a pretty handkerchief
Concealer and mascara
Pain relievers
901 Oak Park Blvd., Suite 201 • Pismo Beach • 489-5545
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 45
Kristin Vining Photography
Music
Music has been called the universal language. It can be the most important element of your wedding, as it expresses the many emotions of the day and is,
literally, instrumental in controlling the flow of events. Because music plays such
an important role, you will want to start early and decide what type of music you
will have and who will provide it.
Ceremony
The music can be provided by an organist, pianist,
flutist, violinist, harpist, guitarist, trumpeter, piper or a
brass, string or wind ensemble. A vocalist (or several) can
make your ceremony even more memorable with selections of tunes and lyrics that are meaningful to you. Be
sure to research your venue’s policies before deciding on
your music, especially if the setting is a temple, a church
or other house of worship.
The prelude typically begins 30 minutes before
the start of the ceremony and is traditionally classical,
although other styles can be used. Your guests will be
seated during this time, and the music will help set the
tone.
The processional signals the entry of your attendants.
It should be somewhat majestic, as it also heralds the
arrival of you. Many compositions are appropriate for the
processional. Ask your musicians or the musical director
for guidance.
The recessional announces both the end of the ceremony and the beginning of your married life. It should
have much the same feel as the processional but with a
quicker, more joyful tempo.
Reception music
For your reception you may have a pianist, a disc
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jockey, a band or even an orchestra to provide background or dance music. Keep in mind that various age
groups will be present, so make the musical menu
diverse.
Before making a decision on any musicians, ask for references and obtain a CD or a DVD of a previous performance.
Or, better yet, listen to them in person, if possible.
To ease your search, entertainment agencies can offer
suggestions for booking musical groups best suited for your
reception. Once you have consulted with a talent professional and decided on your entertainment, the agency will
handle the details. While you will definitely want a personal
consultation, visiting an agency’s Web site can help provide
advance knowledge of available services and performers.
Musicians should be booked at least eight to ten
months (or more) before the wedding. Provide a list of
songs you want to have played at the reception and get a
written agreement. Both parties should go over the agreement thoroughly before signing.
If you use a disc jockey, follow the same guidelines as in
selecting other musical professionals. Be sure that the disc
jockey can provide a wide range of music. You also might
ask the DJ to serve as master of ceremonies by introducing
family members and making announcements. Start your
search early. A quality disc jockey, like quality musicians, will
be booked months in advance.
Photography
Time has a way of playing with our memories. Even the memories of special days
can begin to fade as the years pass by. That’s why it is so important that a record of
your wedding day be preserved permanently by a professional photographer who
knows how to discover and capture the treasured moments of your day.
Selecting your photographer
Before the wedding day
Quality photographers are usually booked months
in advance. If possible, you should begin your search for
a photographer six to nine months before your wedding date. Don’t depend on a friend or a family member
to take candid shots. Even though they may have good
intentions, there is no substitute for a professional.
The wedding photographer you choose should be
someone with whom you feel comfortable and whose
photographic style you admire. Ask to see samples of
previous work by the photographer, including albums
of recent weddings.
Once you have selected your photographer you will
want to work out a contract agreement. The agreement
should name the person who will actually photograph
your wedding. It also should include such items as the
date and hours to be worked, overtime fees, attire of the
photographer and the cost of the complete photographic package. The cost will be determined once
you and your photographer have discussed the types
of pictures you wish to have and how you want your
album to look.
By looking at a number of different wedding
albums you will begin to get a feel for what you want
in your album. Discuss your ideas with your photographer. There are many options open to you, but the
trend in this area is toward a more candid look in albums. You will, of course, want the formal shots of you
and your groom, parents and grandparents and the
wedding party, but the impromptu shots are often
the ones most remembered.
The wedding day
On your wedding day many people will want
to share this special time with you and your groom.
Make an effort to have your posed shots taken as
quickly as possible after the ceremony so your guests
will not have to wait unnecessarily for your arrival at
the reception.
Most importantly, remember that this is your wedding day. Relax, smile and enjoy. You will be creating
memories that you will share and cherish for years to
come.
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
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Photography
Don’t forgo the
formalities
Formal photographs are wonderful for preserving memories of your
wedding day, but they can take up a lot of time. After the ceremony,
you and your guests will be anxious to begin celebrating your marriage, so you won’t want to hold everyone too long before the bridal
party arrives at the reception. Here are some ideas to help minimize
the length of your photo session so that you can get to the party:
• Tracking down family and friends can be very time consuming. Let everyone who will be in the formal pictures know where
and when they are to meet.
• If possible, have some of the formal shots taken prior to the
ceremony. Don’t want the groom to see the bride before the ceremony? This would be a great time for the bride and groom to have
separate photos taken with their attendants, parents or siblings.
• Arrange to have the formals taken at the ceremony or reception site. If your venue doesn’t have the scenic setting you’re
looking for, consider a stop on the way to your reception. Driving
uptown for a skyline backdrop is probably not the most practical
idea if your celebration destination is in the opposite direction!
Ask your photographer for suggestions. They may be aware of
little-known spots that won’t be out of the way.
• Start big and end small. Take the photographs that include the
most people first, so that they can head to the reception as soon
as they are done.
• Photograph efficiently. If each of you has a large family, consider minimizing individual photographs by concentrating on
group shots.
• While you don’t want to rush things, it’s wise to set an ideal
time limit. Discuss your preferred time frame with your photographer before the day of the wedding. Be sure to provide and
allow time for a list of must-have compositions.
• Remember this is your wedding day – you should be having
fun. Maybe there’s a jokester in the family who can help liven
things up. Your photographer can also be invaluable when it
comes to creative ideas. Ask!
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Your wedding photos will remain among the most treasured
mementos of your special day, bringing years of pleasure. Because
of the value associated with your photographs, it’s essential that
you thoroughly research photographers before choosing one. To help
ensure that no emotions, expressions and special moments of your
wedding are missed, we offer the following guidelines:
Photography
Get the
whole picture
• Find out what packages are available and the costs of each.
• Are the proofs included in the package?
• Begin looking for a photographer nine to 12 months prior to
your wedding date, since many are booked well in advance.
• Is an album included?
• Check out the photographer’s Website for sample work, packages, availability, etc.
• Will the photographer be shooting digital or on film? If film,
what brand will be used, and how much is extra film? Will they be
shooting in black and white, color or both?
• Meet with several photographers to get a sense of their styles,
and decide with whom you feel most comfortable.
• Confirm who will actually be shooting your wedding. What
time will they be arriving? What time will they leave? Will they be
employing assistants?
• Ask to view sample albums from a recent wedding.
• How much is extra time?
• About how many photographs will you receive?
• Once you’ve selected your photographer, provide him or her
with a list of must-have shots.
• Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Get your answers in writing,
and ensure that nothing is left unclear.
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
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PhotoEdge Photography
Videography
“I have just finished watching our wedding video for the first time. I know I will
watch it for many years. It really took us back. Just watching the video, my heart
pounded just as it did on May 17 at 5:58 p.m.” – a California bride
A wedding video can be one of your best
values and most memorable means of saving and
savoring your wedding day.
It will give you the opportunity to experience
parts of your wedding day that you might have
forgotten or not even seen.
Imagine not only the sights of the day captured forever but the sounds and feelings as well.
Your wedding video will take you back again and
again to that special day. It will serve as a wonderful part of anniversary celebrations in years to
come and delight future generations.
Couples use their wedding videos not only
as personal mementos but also as gifts to their
parents, as well as sending them to out-of-town
friends or relatives who were not able to attend
the wedding.
Because wedding videos play such an
important role in preserving your memories, it
is important you take special care in selecting a
professional videographer.
As is true for other wedding professionals,
popular wedding dates are booked with many
videographers a year or more in advance. It is
important to begin your search early for a quality
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videographer. Allow as much time as you would
for the selection of your photographer and no
less than six months if possible.
The quality of videos varies greatly, as do
costs. Prices generally range from $700 for a basic
video to more than $3,000 for a high-end video.
Just as you would not price shop for a selection
of wedding gowns without seeing them first, it
is wise not to price-shop videographers without
seeing the actual video recordings. It is important
to see a videographer’s work so you can evaluate
the quality you receive for the price.
Most videographers offer packages. Coverage time and feature options can be adjusted to
fit your budget. To prevent misunderstandings,
complete and sign a contract agreement with
the videographer you select.
A wedding video can be one of the most
exciting and moving ways to document the
beginning of your life together as a married
couple. It’s worth the time it takes to evaluate
your selection of a professional videographer and
invest in the best.
Videography
The dos and don’ts
of selecting a videographer
Do review a demo. Look for the
quality in its color, clarity and audio.
Also look for fluidity in the camera
movement and angles. Your wedding
video should look like a movie – not
Uncle Ed’s funniest home video.
Don’t trust your memories to an
amateur. Make sure your videographer
is experienced and has a good track
record. Ask for references from couples
whose weddings they filmed – personal testimonials can go a long way in
establishing your comfort level.
Do make sure your photographer
and videographer work together.
Arrange for them to meet beforehand
and communicate what kind of look
you’re going for.
Don’t depend on cutting-edge
technology. Just because the videographer’s equipment is the best doesn’t
automatically mean your video will be.
While good equipment is important,
talent and creativity are key.
Don’t look back and wish you
hadn’t skipped the video. Time after
time, couples have commented that
they were on the fence but decided to
go ahead with their wedding video and
are so glad they did. Nothing can surpass the feeling of seeing yourselves as
you were during those most wonderful
moments.
Tommy McCart Photography
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Jewelry
CirclesOfLov
The most important aspect of your ring is that you absolutely love it, but it’s
also important to shop wisely.
A time comes when you simply know you are
with “the one.”
The question then becomes just a matter of
when, where and how. When will he ask? Where
will he ask? How will he ask? Or should I ask him?
There are as many delightful stories of proposals as there are couples – some simple, some
elaborate, but each with its own special meaning.
And it is much the same for the engagement ring
– some simple, some elaborate, but each with its
own special meaning for the bride and groom-tobe.
Often a man will want to surprise his intended
with an engagement ring. Often, however, the
couple will discuss ahead of time the style and
type of ring she would like to have.
In choosing your ring, keep in mind that only
three people need to be involved – you, your
fiancé and your jeweler. Discuss your feelings with
your fiancé, being honest and realistic about the
size, cost and style
An engagement ring can be the traditional
diamond solitaire or you can select from an array
of stones such as sapphires, emeralds or rubies,
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particularly popular for second marriages. Many
brides-to-be opt for a combination of a diamond
and another gem – her birthstone perhaps. Some
couples choose their stone or stones first, then
select a mounting or have one custom-designed.
Heirloom pieces also can be reset or redesigned.
Should you decide to shop for a traditional
diamond, you will quickly become aware of the
four c’s – color, cut, clarity and carat. A reputable
jeweler will help you fully understand their meaning and suggest a ring that is perfect for you.
Whether you and your fiancé decide on a
diamond or a different engagement stone, you
will want to get a written guarantee on the ring
and have it registered. Ask your jeweler for a written certification of the stone’s grade and identity.
Also, have the ring appraised by an independent
appraiser.
Finally, remember that there is great potential
to lose a ring somewhere between the jeweler
and the altar. Don’t wait another minute to have
your ring insured. This goes for the wedding bands
as well. After all, any tears you shed at this wonderful time should be happy ones.
ve
Jewelry
Locations
Match the sparkle
in her eyes
A diamond ring is the traditional engagement gift. If you know her
tastes and want to surprise her, you should visit an established jeweler who can help you select or design the perfect ring. A diamond is
an investment, and a knowledgeable jeweler will be sure to educate
you on “The Four C’s:”
Cut – Many shapes and textures are available to the diamond
shopper. The standard cuts are brilliant or round, oval, marquise,
pear, heart, and emerald, in addition to more modern designs
such as princess and cushion cuts.
Color – There are some “fancy” colored diamonds, but most are
clear or show just a tinge of tint. Generally speaking, the less color
there is, the greater the value of the stone.
Clarity – Diamonds with few or no imperfections are the most
desirable and valuable. Your jeweler can explain the different
diamond “grades” based on both color and clarity, which can be
determined by viewing through a microscope or jeweler’s loupe.
Carat – A unit of weight for precious stones, the number of carats
will affect the size of the diamond. But keep in mind that a large
stone is not necessarily best. The cut, color and clarity actually are
more important when assessing the value of the diamond.
Exquisite Gifts for Him
William Henry Studio Collection
– a perfect blend of form and function.
720 Higuera Street • Downtown San Luis Obispo
805-547-0662 • www.kevinmain.com
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
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Transportation
The transportation arrangements you make for your wedding should reflect both
style and careful planning. Because it is your day and you will want to be the
center of attention, plan to arrive at and depart from your wedding in the most
elegant way possible. In addition, to ensure that all goes smoothly, give careful
consideration to the transportation needs of others in the wedding party as well as
those of your out-of-town guests.
Plan ahead
On the practical side
Wedding transportation is not a low-priority item. You
should begin planning several months before your wedding.
Advance plans in transportation preparations will allow you
to enjoy your wedding day, avoiding last-minute problems.
When choosing your transportation service, look at
the vehicles the company offers. Be certain the service you
choose has the style of car or carriage you want and that it will
be available when you need it. Find out if you will be charged
hourly or if all services will be included in one set price. Ask
what the driver will wear and about the tipping policy. Professional transportation services will be happy to work with you
to ensure that you arrive and depart promptly and elegantly.
Sophisticated style
The classic mode of travel for the bride to the wedding
site is by limousine or luxury car, which also will provide an
intimate ride for you and your husband from the marriage
ceremony to the reception. Quality limousine and luxury
automobile services can be found throughout the area,
but check with these services well before your wedding to
ensure you will be able to reserve the car you want, especially if your wedding is during the busy months of May,
June or December.
Fantasy focus
Anything you choose will be romantic, but for the perfect
wedding, many brides and grooms have fantasized about a
horse-drawn carriage their first ride together as husband and
wife. Other ideas are hot-air balloons and festively decorated
gondolas or dune buggies for couples who get married near
water. Whatever your fantasy, now is the time to live it.
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A little help from your friends
If your budget allows, you can provide special transportation for the entire wedding entourage and out-of-town
guests. Party boats, while great fun, are best saved for partying. But a trolley or a double-decker bus is a wonderful mode
of travel. And you also can call on dependable (and punctual) friends to play chauffeurs. Each friend who provides
transportation for guests should allow enough time to arrive
at the wedding site 30 minutes before the ceremony. Give
your drivers money for gas and a car wash, and be sure they
know the addresses (with directions) and phone numbers
of everyone they are to pick up. Don’t tip your friends, but a
small thank-you gift is always appropriate.
Transportation
It’s your choice
Owners from local transportation companies offer suggestions on how
to choose the service that is just right for you.
• Start looking when you begin searching for your ceremony
and reception sites. Call ahead and make appointments. Don’t
make decisions over the phone.
• Examine the equipment to be sure it looks safe and clean.
• Check references and ask around about the reputations of the
various services.
• Don’t even consider someone who does not ask pertinent
questions about your wedding, such as the date, time and location of the ceremony and reception. You need someone who will
help you think through your needs and who knows the questions
to ask.
• Ask about liability insurance. Don’t choose anyone who can’t
provide paperwork and show full coverage.
• Ask about rain policies, especially in the event of less traditional modes of transport. Check to see if the service provides
a back-up plan or if you have to keep a contingency in mind.
• Ask about refund policies in case of cancellation or change
of the date/time/locations. Are there refunds in the case of
weather-related changes in the service? Are there refunds if the
transportation is late for any reason? Can you get those terms in
writing?
• When you’ve made your choice, be sure to arrange photos through
your photographer and your camera-carrying friends. Brides often find
out too late that the transportation they chose was represented in the wedding album only by the fleeting flash of tail lights. Most drivers are willing
to wait for or help pose formal photo sessions if the bride asks.
Sometimes you
ou just wa
wantt
to have fun.
Let us
get you there.
VISITORS
•
Tour Groups • Wine Tours
SPECIAL EVENTS
•
Wedding Party Shuttles
AIRPORT
•
Airport Pick Up & Drop Offff
Ride-On Transportation,
Your designated door-to-door driver
for all of your celebratory events!
541-TRIP
Anyone Anytime!
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 55
Wedding Album
Jennifer Toth to
Ruben Almada
August 9, 2008
Amy Wellenkamp
Photographers
rin Lacy to Chad Davis
E
April 5, 2008
A. Blake Photography
Katie Connell to
Brett Johnson
July 26, 2008
Colleen Rosenthal
Photography
ummer Harrison to
S
Chris Smallwood
June 7, 2008
A. Blake Photography
Angela Taylor to
Robert Handley Jr.
July 19, 2008
Sonrisa Photography
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Wedding Album
Nicole Neuman to Dan Cermak
September 20, 2008
Amy Wellenkamp
Photographers
Ashlee Bettencourt
to Brandon Akers
October 6, 2007
Manuele
Photography
Tiffany Rominer to Rob Farino
July 19, 2008
Colleen Rosenthal Photography
Sarah Peak to
Andrew Lush May 31, 2008
Brian Owens Media
Bridget Toft to Matt Owens
June 4, 2008
Nakamura’s Photography
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
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Wedding Album
Kaitlyn Eyler to Jake Maiorino
August 16, 2008
Mike Larson, Inc.
L eBren Martin to Terrance Harris
August 23, 2008
Daniel Wilson Photography
Malia Smith
to Andrew
Goodchild
July 12, 2008
Remember
When... Storybook
Photography
atie Roth to Jeremy Dixon
K
October 18, 2008
Sarah Kathleen Photography
Kellie Gin to Chris Carey
August 2, 2008
Nakamura’s Photography
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CaLIFORNIA WEDS
Wedding Album
Meagan Ryan to
Matt Allgood August 18, 2008
Daniel Wilson
Photography
Shawna Treese to Isaac Dixon
May 25, 2008
Remember When... Storybook
Photography
Gabi Achermann to Ryan Dalldorf
September 20, 2008
Mark Winkler Photography
Jacqueline Hodge
to Vincent Bautista March 3, 2008
Sonrisa Photography
Alva Requindin to
Aaron McKee
April 19, 2008
April Wise
Photography
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
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Wedding Album
rinn Baker to Greg Strange
B
May 24, 2008
Manuele Photography
Mallory Ruth to Kevin Jones
May 18, 2008
Daniel Wilson Photography
Serena Peterson to Silas Warner
August 21, 2008
Mark Winkler Photography
Diana Hopkins to
Clint Jones
June 12, 2008
Touch of Grace
Photography
Attention professional
wedding photographers!
Do you have a recent local bride and groom that you
would like to showcase in our “Wedding Album” pages? Please email photos (sized to 3” x 5” and 300 dpi) to
[email protected], and we’ll
consider them for publication. 60 |
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
Honeymoon
istockphoto.com
At long last, the time for your honeymoon arrives. You and your groom should
view the honeymoon as the beginning of a lifelong adventure together, not just the
end of a hectic wedding schedule. It should be one of the most memorable
of journeys, not only in destination but in learning more about each other —
how to plan together, play together and explore the many opportunities that lie
ahead for both of you.
It is important that you and your fiancé discuss
honestly your expectations for your honeymoon. Do
you want a quiet, secluded destination with plenty
of time alone or a trip to Europe touring new sites
and meeting people? Do you want your honeymoon to include activities that you both enjoy, such
as skiing or scuba diving, or do you simply want to
relax? Would you enjoy a resort or perhaps a cruise?
Sunshine or snow? Beaches or mountains? City or
countryside? The choices are many.
You also should be clear about your preferences
in creature comforts. Your fiancé may find a rustic
cabin ideal, while you dream of a luxury hotel with
room service and a whirlpool bathtub.
Whatever choices you discuss, be confident that
you and your fiancé will know when you’ve found the
perfect honeymoon just for the two of you.
Once you have decided on the type of honeymoon, the dates you wish to travel and your budget,
consult a travel agent. This is the best thing you can
do for yourselves. The travel agent can handle all the
details of the honeymoon, and there is no charge to
you for the services.
A travel agency with experts in honeymoon plan
ning will not only help you with the best destinations,
accommodations and travel arrangements, but it will
assist you in all areas of planning. Agents can give you
top-notch advice regarding money exchange, insurance
needs and packing. They also will inform you of necessary documents, such as passports, visas or records of
inoculations you might need to have, and provide you
with travel confirmations. Your travel agent can make all
the difference for smooth sailing on your honeymoon.
Traditionally speaking, your fiancé should handle all
the finances of the honeymoon with the travel agent,
including necessary deposits. He will want to be careful
to stay within the guidelines of the budget so there are
no unexpected bills to pay when you return home. A
week before the wedding he should make a final check
with the travel agent to confirm that all is in order.
Remember, your honeymoon does not have to
begin immediately after your reception. If you are
planning a long honeymoon or going to a remote
destination, you should allow yourself some time
between the wedding and the honeymoon. If so, you
still can make your wedding night a special occasion
by staying at a nearby bed and breakfast or a luxury
hotel.
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| 61
Locations
Planning tips
for the groom
• First, tell family and friends about your
engagement.
• Discuss wedding styles with your fiancée,
and set the date, time and place.
• Develop a budget with your fiancée and
parents, and decide who will pay for what.
• Help determine the guest list and
assist with invitations.
• Select your best man and groomsmen.
• Choose men’s attire and make
arrangements for fittings. Be sure to get
your fiancée’s approval!
• Visit clergy with your fiancée and
schedule pre-marital counseling.
• Attend bridal events with your fiancée
and participate in wedding planning.
• Discuss and arrange for the
honeymoon.
• Purchase a wedding band to
complement the engagement ring. You
and your fiancée may want to consider
matching bands.
• Procure attendants’ and bride’s wedding
day gifts.
• Arrange transportation and
accommodations for out-of-town
guests.
• Apply for the marriage license
• Get to the church on time!
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The
Groom’s
Room
It’s a fact. When it comes to weddings, the
man of the hour is every bit involved as the
blushing bride. Traditionally, he pops the
question, purchases her ring, and arranges
and pays for the honeymoon, but he also
selects the men’s attire and gifts, makes
sure that his friends and family are on the
guest list, adds items to the bridal registry
and even helps plan the big day. Because of
your groom-to-be’s devoted involvement,
we’ve created The Groom’s Room with
your man in mind.
Locations
The men of the moment
Of course, the focus of every wedding is going to be the bride and her bridal party. But nothing completes the picture so perfectly as a row of handsome gentlemen, waiting expectantly for the beautiful ladies in their gowns. This is the traditional format for
many ceremonies, but modern brides and grooms have other ideas, including having each groomsman escort a bridesmaid, asking
the bride’s parents to go with her down the aisle, or even choosing to walk together to the altar. There is no “right” way to have a
wedding. So, other than looking dapper, just what are the men in a wedding expected to do?
The bridegroom
The man of the hour is there to marry
the woman he loves. Prior to the wedding, the bridegroom typically helps with
the overall planning. He also chooses the
groomsmen, selects his and his attendants’ attire, and arranges for fittings and
delivery. He orders the bride’s bouquet,
mothers’ corsages and men’s boutonnieres. Additionally, he works with the
hosts (usually his parents) to determine
the style and location of the rehearsal
dinner, arranges for transportation to and
from the wedding, handles accommodations for out-of-town guests, takes care of
the marriage certificate and clergy fees,
and plans and pays for the honeymoon.
The best man
This distinguished position, corresponding to the bride’s maid of honor,
is filled by someone close to the groom,
often a brother, father or dear friend. He
is there to support the groom, and to
make sure nothing is forgotten. He is the
attendant closest to the groom during
the ceremony, and one of the best man’s
most important duties is to safeguard the
bride’s wedding ring, handing it to the
groom at the right moment. He generally
plans the bachelor party and is respon-
sible for seeing that the groom gets home
safely, and then to the church on time.
He supervises the groomsmen, and may
oversee the return of rented formalwear.
At the reception, he usually gives the first
toast, thanking the bridesmaids and the
guests, and saluting the newlyweds with
best wishes. If the groom desires, he may
have a female honor attendant, in which
case she is called the best woman, or the
best person.
tional role is to respond to that timeless
question, “Who gives this woman?” He may
answer, “I do,” or, in recent years, it’s become
popular to acknowledge his life partner,
with a response of “Her mother and I do.” He
may lift the bride’s veil and give her a kiss
before moving to a seat of honor. And although quite a few couples today prefer to
manage their own financial arrangements,
the bride’s father traditionally pays for the
wedding, as a gift to his daughter and new
son-in-law.
The groomsmen
The ring bearer
Usually selected by the groom from
among his friends and family (and sometimes
the bride’s family), the groomsmen serve as
ushers before the ceremony, escorting guests
to their seats. Depending on the wedding,
they may also escort the bridesmaids down
the aisle and to the reception, where dancing
with the bridesmaids and other single ladies is
just one of the many pleasant responsibilities
a man takes on when he accepts the honor as
a groom’s attendant.
Primarily a symbolic title, the ring
bearer usually has no true responsibilities, but he is an awfully cute addition
to the marriage celebration. Typically
a young male relative of the bride or
groom, the ring bearer carries a ceremonial white satin pillow on which
two wedding bands rest. Imitation
rings are often used (the best man and
maid of honor hold the real ones) for
safety’s sake, or the actual rings can be
attached lightly to the pillow with a
piece of thread or ribbon. It is advisable
to choose a ring bearer who is at least
three years old. Men’s formalwear shops
can suggest and provide appropriate
attire.
The father of the bride
For Daddy’s Little Girl, what could be
sweeter than walking down the aisle to
Mendelssohn’s Wedding March, arm in arm
with the first man in her life? His conven-
Photo 209
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
| 63
Advertiser’s Index
DIRECTORY OF
ADVERTISERS
Receptions/Rehearsal
Dinners/Ceremony Sites
/Accommodations
SLO Country Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Avila Bay Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Shore Cliff Lodge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back
Catering
6699 Bay Laurel Place
Avila Beach, CA 93424
805-595-7600
www.wcaclubs.com
2555 Price Street
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
800-441-8885
www.ShoreCliff.com
Phoenix Fine Catering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Avila Lighthouse Suites. . . . . . . . Inside Back
Vina Robles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Best Western Shelter Cove Lodge . ..Inside Back
Transportation
Bridal Registry/Gifts
Gottschalks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover
313 Madonna Road
877-99-4ever
www.Gottschalks.com
805-544-4889
www.phoenixcatering.com
Sweet Earth Chocolates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
1491 Monterey Street
805-544-7759
www.sweetearthchocolates.com
Flowers/Décor
Arlyne’s Flowers Etc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
6485 Palma
Atascadero, CA 93422
805-466-1136
Health & Beauty
Herber Hobie DDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
901 Oak Park Boulevard Suite #201
805-489-5545
Invitations/Calligraphy
Village Papery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
110 1/2 East Branch Street
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
805-489-1162
www.villagepapery.com
Jewelry
Kevin Main Jewelry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
850 Higuera Street
805-547-0662
www.kevinmain.com
Photography/
Videography
April Wise Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
San Luis Obispo, CA
805-504-4807
www.aprilwisephotography.com
Brain Owens Media. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
San Luis Obispo, CA
805-886-7450
www.BrianOwensMedia.com
Sarah Kathleen Photography. . . . . . . . . . . 48
614 Grand Avenue #7
805-748-6373
www.sarahkathleen.com
64 |
This comprehensive directory of California Weds advertisers, conveniently
categorized and page referenced, will make it easier than ever for you to
locate the wedding professionals that are just right for you.
CaLIFORNIA WEDS
550 Front Street
Avila Beach, CA 93424
800-372-8452
www.AvilaLighthouseSuites.com
2651 Price Street
800-848-1434
www.bwsheltercove.com
Calcareous Vineryard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
3430 Peachy Canyon Road
Paso Robles, CA 93446
805-239-0289
www.Calcareous.com
Courtyard by Marriott. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
1605 Calle Joaquin Road
805-786-4200
www.Marriott.com
255 Country Club Drive
805-543-3400
3700 Mill Road
805-227-4812
www.VinaRobles.com
Ride-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
3620 Sacramento Suite 201
805-541-8751
Wedding Professionals Resource
Central Coast Wedding Professionals. . . . 39
www.ccwp.com
Chukchansi Gold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
711 Lucky Lane
Coarsegold, CA 93614
1.866.7.WIN.WIN (946.946)
www.ChukchansiGold.com
Dallidet Adobe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
1185 Pacific Street
805-543-0638
www.slochs.org
Gold Coast Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
905 Main Street
Cambria, CA 93428
805-927-2607
www.GoldCoastReligiousScience.org
Madonna Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
100 Madonna Road
805-543-3000
www.MadonnaInn.com
Paso Robles Inn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back
1103 Spring Street
800-676-1713
www.PasoRoblesInn.com
Robert Hall Winery. . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front
3443 Mill Road
805-239-1616
www.RobertHallWinery.com
Enjoy
your wedding
planning, and
thank you for
spending time
with
California
Weds

CaLIFORNIa WEDS

Transcription

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