Wedding Blogs by Wedding Professionals
December 30, 2005
TIP #3 - COORDINATING RECEPTION FACILITIES AND BANDS
If you have decided to make a live band the feature of your reception, I would advise booking the band first so you can better plan your reception location. Most couples select the reception site based upon the number of guests, parking, food, etc. and usually don't give much thought about whether the site is suitable for the type of entertainment they have in mind.
So, most often the reception site is already chosen. Most professional wedding reception bands are accustomed to "rolling with the punches" when it comes to reception sites and where to set up, get electricity, etc. However, providing the band with the optimum placement in the room will help them a great deal and will improve the sound quality, not to mention, the energy level.
Posted by BRICKHOUSE BAND on December 30, 2005 at 12:33 PM
December 29, 2005
Put Furniture on your Gift Registry
When you register for gifts you get to ask for exactly what you want.
Don't forget to include furniture when you register. A great gift would be wood folding chairs that match your living/dining room furniture. Store them away until you need them for those new-in-law dinners, when they come to see what kind of a cook you are.
Or maybe you could use a combination wood-top cart that is also storage, and if it's on wheels, it's a rolling island. Very useful.
Or what about one of those big woven storage baskets with a lid, for storing throws in the living room, and it can be used as a side table with a tray on top when you have guests.
Guests are grateful to have a variety of different kinds of items from which to choose a gift.
Posted by POWERS DESIGN CO. on December 29, 2005 at 10:30 PM
Destination Wedding Tips
Planning a wedding can be stressful! Planning from a distance can be overwhelming! Here are some tips to help you stay sane and enjoy your planning:
1. Keep everything organized. Chaos in your planning is a sure way to make the stress levels rise.
2. Be sure to get everything in writing. You don't want there to be any questions about what is being provided or expected.
3. Understand that e-mail is not perfect. If you haven't heard a response from a vendor or coordinator within 48 hours, resend your e-mail as it may not have reached its destination.
4. Be aware of Hawaiian time. It can be frustrating when vendors don't return your calls promptly. Knowing that the islands move at a slightly slower pace will help you to remain calm.
5. Have a clear-cut budget in mind. There are so many vendors and packages available and having a good budget in mind will help to narrow them down.
6. Be sure all the details of your wedding are in order BEFORE you step foot on the island. There are always minor details to care for, but having them all done ahead of time will make for a much more relaxed time.
7. Having family and friends help you with different aspects of your wedding is great! Make sure you communicate exactly what you want and that they understand. Write it all down so that all involved know what to do and what to say. It's a shame to see friendships and family ties strained after a wedding didn't go as planned.
8. Please use sunscreen prior to your wedding! On the same note, save the daredevil activities for after the wedding. You don't want to see your sunburns and broken bones in your wedding pictures!
9. Remember when browsing message boards that not everything you read is true. Unfortunately, you are only hearing one side of the story. Often times facts and important details are left out. Vendors don't have the luxury to tell their side.
10. Remember that something goes wrong in all weddings. It may be something minor, such as the caterer showing up 30 minutes late or something as major as the church was flooded. Regardless, keep in mind the reason you are there and leave it all in the hands of your coordinator! They will take care of things and make sure your wedding is a success!
Posted by HAWAII WEDDINGS BY DESIGN on December 29, 2005 at 05:14 PM
December 28, 2005
TIP #2 - WHY HIRE A BAND FOR MY RECEPTION?
PRIORITIZE
Remember that your guest's attention will be drawn to the music as soon as they enter the room. And if you have a real party band, they will not be as interested in how elaborate your floral arrangements are, nor will they want to eat so much that they are too stuffed to dance. (Alcohol? ﾖ well, thatﾒs always popular no matter what else is going on.) A seated dinner or fancy buffet is not a requirement when your focus is a party atmosphere. There is certainly nothing wrong with either a seated dinner or a fancy buffet, if you have the budget. But your guests will most likely eat another three meals the next day. The food will soon be forgotten. However the excitement that they experienced during hours of dancing will create a lasting memory about your reception. Below is a very revealing poll taken by www.weddingzone.net regarding the most important element for a wedding reception. THE RESPONSE IS OVERWHELMINGLY IN FAVOR OT THE ENTERTAINMENT AS THE MOST IMPORTANT ELEMENT OF THE RECEPTION, coming in at 46%, with food in second place at 25%.
THE ATMOSPHERE WITHOUT LIVE ENTERTAINMENT:
Think of receptions you have attended. If there was no band or deejay, you probably were drawn to the flower arrangements, the ice sculpture, the cake, food, etc. You probably didnﾒt stay very long either. You shook a few hands, hugged the bride and groom and were "outta there."
THE ATMOSPHERE WITH LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
With a band, or with any live entertainment for that matter, anyone entering the room is immediately drawn to the sound and what is producing it (OK, admittedly the bar is a main attraction, too). Sad but true, flowers, and d￩cor become secondary interests. The pace of the reception will be in the hands of the entertainer.
Posted by BRICKHOUSE BAND on December 28, 2005 at 12:13 PM
December 26, 2005
Hello BridesClub.com Brides!
~New to Blog~
A little Info:
Amour de Fleurs is owned by Lisa Wendler, in Olympia, Washington, steps from the State Capitol.
Being Married with four Beautiful children, I know the stress involved in making sure every last detail in a Wedding Day is taken care, especially the FLOWERS!
Amour de Fleurs is made up of Family and Friends with over 10 years of extensive experience in floral and artwork designs.
At Amour de Fleurs, all fresh floral arrangements are originally designed and flowers are purchased only from the finest growers available. Our goal is to make sure your Dreams are Envisioned into a Reality for your Wedding Day. We work diligently to provide the Service and Quality beyond your expectations to ensure your Wedding is memorable in years to come. Rentals are also available, columns, arbors, pedestals, tables, chairs, linen & so much more!
Call us for a personalized consultation at 360-352-0209
We wish you the Best of Years in your Marriage and look forward to working with you soon!
You have a personal invitation to visit our website at www.Amourdefleurs.com!
Warmest Regards,
The Amour de Fleurs Family
Posted by AMOUR DE FLEURS on December 26, 2005 at 04:06 PM
December 21, 2005
Out with the old, in with the new!
I wanted to extend Happy Holiday wishes to all of you! As this year comes to an end, I hope you will recall the great moments of 2005 and let the not-so-great moments fade away with the year.
As the new year begins, there is renewed hope, expectation and excitement for the new experiences and great moments that lie ahead for all of us!
Have a wonderful and safe Christmas and may this New Year be full of the love, joy and hope that keeps us alive!
Warmest Wishes,
Windy O'Connor
Posted by WWW.HOMEBENEFITIQ.COM on December 21, 2005 at 10:16 AM
December 20, 2005
Where memories are made and life is celebrated!
Dear happy couple,
Your wedding day is the happiest day of your life, but may also be the most challenging one.
Planning and executing this exhilarating event is time consuming, and can be nerve wrecking. Wouldnﾒt you like to have someone at your side, which would gladly shoulder the challenge and alleviate your worries and headaches?
Barmore Hospitality & Catering provides superior quality and attention to details and makes every wedding reception memorable.
So, whether you are entertaining a few or a few hundreds, look to us as something special.
Our goal is to carefully work with you to create a menu specific to your needs and tastes.
Events are priced according to menus and services selected. We will send you a customized proposal with the estimated costs.
Our sales manager is here to help you plan a perfect event, select the right menu for your budget, design a room set up including guests seating, serving tables, a dance floor and music.
Please, call and experience the friendly and warm spirit of Barmore Hospitality & Catering professional team.
Happy Holidays!
Rodica Radu
206-709-8770 phone
rodica@barmore.biz
Posted by BARMORE PERSONNEL on December 20, 2005 at 03:06 PM
Dear Bride,
Dear Bride,
Your wedding day is the happiest day of your life, but may also be the most challenging one.
Planning and executing this exhilarating event is time consuming, and can be nerve wrecking. Wouldnﾒt you like to have someone at your side, which would gladly shoulder the challenge and alleviate your worries and headaches? Wouldnﾒt you like to have at your side a team of professionals that would take care of every little detail that goes into turning a wedding day into a once-in-a-life-time event, while affording you the luxury of happily celebrating with your loved ones?
My name is Rodica, manager of Barmore Hospitality, and I and my team of professionals will be happy to assist you in making your wedding day an affair to remember.
Whether you need an event planner or a chef, banquet servers, bartenders or stewards ﾖ we have them all. Whether you like Pacific Northwestern cuisine, Italian cooking or All-American delicacies ﾖ we know them all. No menu is foreign to us, and no event is too big or too small.
Give us the opportunity to learn about your specific needs and vision, so that we can customize our personnel and cuisine to your heartﾒs delight.
Thank you,
Rodica
206-709-8770
rodica@barmore.biz
Posted by BARMORE PERSONNEL on December 20, 2005 at 02:54 PM
December 19, 2005
New Address: #37 103rd Ave. NE, Suite C, Bellevue, Wa. 98004
Hello Brides
We have Many New Spring 2007 Wedding gowns and Bridesmaid dresses that have arrived in the latest styles.And now the Fall 2007 are arriving. Our Wedding gown Styles range from Informal,Formal and Beach, We now carry the Gorgeous line of Rina De Montilla and Lasposa.Come and visit us We may have the Gown that would be perfect for your Dream wedding.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SERVING YOU
Bellevue Bridal Boutique
# 37 103rd Ave. NE, Suite C
Bellevue, Wa. 98004
Take NE 8TH St west head toward the mall,take a left onto Bellevue Way,take a right onto Main street,take first right on to 103rd Ave Ne , we're in the Borgata building on the left by the fountain 1 BLOCK UP ON YOUR LEFT. Fantastic new stock in our beautiful Boutique, come see us soon.
Phone: 425-451-1041
Posted by BELLEVUE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE on December 19, 2005 at 11:31 PM
JAZZ UNLIMITED BAND - Live Music
Hello -
My name is Duane M. Wright and I am the leader of the
Jazz Unlimited Band. I have recently received many inquiries from Brides concerning music for their weddings. Many have expressed that they felt they could not afford a six piece band but still wanted "LIVE MUSIC" They were surprised to hear that the Jazz Unlimited Band offers 2-PIECE, 3-PIECE, 4-PIECE,
5-PIECE AND 6-PIECE BANDS. (All members of the Jazz Unlimited Band).
This makes it easy for Brides to have just the right musical instrumentation and musical requirements - at just the right price. A price that that makes "LIVE MUSIC" possible and affordable.
Choosing the right size Band can often makes the difference between having MUSIC or -NO- MUSIC" on your important wedding
day. Don't let this happen, please call me or e-mail me at any time to discuss your musical needs. You will be surprised at our affordable prices and the quality and type of instrumentation and music we can offer.
I have performed at 100's of weddings, and I have often experienced that "LIVE MUSIC" made the difference on the wedding day. With out the "LIVE MUSIC", the wedding would not have been the same. "LIVE MUSIC" can make a world of difference, and make your Wedding Day special and memorable.
Contact Duane Wright toll free at 1-866-337-2111
or e-mail Duane at - duane.janw@verizon.net.
Posted by JAZZ UNLIMITED BAND on December 19, 2005 at 02:44 PM
Wedding Scheduler & Check List
Reduce the stress of planning your special day with our Free Wedding Scheduler and Check List. To print out your FREE copy please visit http://www.beallmansion.com/weddingsandeceptions/weddingscheduler.html
Posted by BEALL MANSION ALTON, ILLINOIS (ST. LOUIS, MO) on December 19, 2005 at 01:48 PM
December 18, 2005
Wedding Traditions???
Ever asked yourself the following questions ?
ﾕ Why do brides wear white?
ﾕ Why does the bride carry flowers?
ﾕ Why is the ring placed on the 3rd finger of the left hand?
ﾕ Why do brides wear garters?
Why does the bride wear white?
The custom of the bride wearing white stretches back to early Roman times when the colour was a symbol of celebration. At the beginning of the 20th century white was also seen as representing purity and was equated with happiness and joy, obviously making it an ideal choice for a wedding.
Why do brides carry a bouquet?
One of the most enduring wedding customs is the carrying of a bouquet.
In ancient times, brides would carry herbs beneath their veils as a symbol of fidelity, while Greek brides would ensure their bouquet included ivy ~ a symbol of never ending love.
Husbands ~to~be in times past would have to be very understanding and deeply in love with their betrothed~ how else would they be able to stand the stinking garlands of herbs and spices they carried in a bid to warn off evil spirits?
Why is the wedding ring placed on the third finger?
One constant in the wedding ceremony, no matter whether it is being held at a civil venue or a place or worship, is the placing of the ring on the third finger of the left hand. This partucular digit is used because of ancient belief that there was a vein in this finger which ran directly to the heart.
Medieval bridegrooms would put the ring on three of the bride's fingers to symbolise The Father, The Son and the Spirit. It would then remain on the third finger, a custom which was adopted by many English speaking cultures.
Why do brides wear a Garter?
Who would have guessed that a bawdy English ritual called "flinging the stocking" would be linked with the wedding day tradition of the bride wearing a blue satin garter?
In the past, guests would invade the bridal chamber. While the ushers grabbled the bride's stocking, the maids would steal the groom's. They would then take it in turns to fling the hosiery at the heads of the happy (or probably not so happy at that moment!) couple.
Whoever's stocking landed on the bride or groom's nose would reputedly be the next to wed.
The blue colour goes back to ancient Israel, where brides wore a blue ribbon to signify "fidelity".
Today brides will often wear two garters, one is kept as a momento and the other is retrieved by the groom and thrown at the young unmarried men attending the ceremony ~ a twist on the woman vying for the bouquet.
No matter how contemporary or modern a bride decides to make her particular day she is bound to adopt some of the familiar customs which supposedly bring her happiness, joy and many years with her new husband ~ after all, you can't be too careful !.
Posted by ALL STAR MASSAGE & SPA on December 18, 2005 at 01:54 PM
December 15, 2005
You have made a commitment , so have we!
Dear couple,
For the most important day in your life, donﾒt settle for second best.
When it comes to choosing your wedding catering, you want professionalism, high quality and wide range of options to suit your style.
My name is Rodica, and I am manager of Barmore Hospitality, with over 10 years experience in catering business.
Barmore Hospitality is all about offering packages that work well together, providing endless possibilities and, ultimately, the freedom to design and present wedding reception in any way that couples want.
The Bride and Groom may choose from a variety of dinning experiences to include Mediterranean, Pan-Asian, American, as well as traditional European cuisine.
Our experience will be your assurance of a wonderful celebration to be shared with your family and friends.
We are offering ﾓPiece of Mind ﾓthat our expanded professionalism will help make your wedding stress free, and elegant.
Thank you,
Rodica Radu
206-709-8770 ph
Rodica@barmore.biz
Posted by BARMORE PERSONNEL on December 15, 2005 at 03:22 PM
December 11, 2005
Our first blog
Hello Brides!
This is our first blog posting here - so I thought I would start by introducing ourselves. We are 2 young photographers working in the Seattle Area and we provide nationally recognized photojournalism for our couples. We're loads of fun and always help our couples' weddings days run smoothly.
I thought I would offer a few tips for Christmas photos since it is that time of year. Sending out those family photo cards can be a stress-inducing meltdown - so here are several useful tips that will have you looking great for your future in-laws - even if you send those cards our closer to Valentines Day than Christmas!
1) Candid is much more interesting than static - you've seen those posed photographs around the Christmas tree where everyone looks stiff and uncomfortable in their holiday sweaters. Yuck - how dull! Why not spice it up this year by sending out cards with candid images. You and your fianc￩ can grab that digital camera and head up to the mountains. Frolic in the snow a bit (show off that arm by pelting your future groom with a snowball to the face) and then take an 'action' shot. Or, have a friend do it. Your new family will love images that show you as a couple - personality is everything.
2) Wear natural colors - For some crazy reason, everyone always wears the green and red stripped sweater for their holiday photos. Try wearing natural tones instead - sky blue, tans, beige, soft greens and pinks. These tones bring out the inner glow of your skin and will look better for outside shots than brighter colors.
3) White balance control against snow - Shooting snow images can be a real challenge if youﾒre not familiar with white balance controls or lighting. Make sure you practice first and adjust your camera as necessary. You may need to do more than simply point and shoot to have images you love.
4) Play bridal dress-up - You will spend a whole year planning, agonizing, and paying for your wedding. Photo Christmas ornaments and cards are a great to commemorate this event in your life and remember it every year. So try dressing up as a bride and groom for those photo cards, or better yet, dress up your pets! (My personal favorite is the cat with the veil, the dog with the Santa Hat.) Fun, whimsical images featuring wedding stuff is a great way to share the love with family and friends.
That's our posting for now. Check back often to see new hints and visit us at the wedding expos in Jan.
Cheers!
Brooke and Paul
Posted by HENDRICKS KIM PHOTOGRAPHY on December 11, 2005 at 07:37 AM
December 8, 2005
Communicate with your photographer
We as photographers love to capture moments in time, that you can reflect on for the rest of your life. Once you have selected your photographer/videographer stay in touch with them making sure they know your plan and what you expect to be captured. When you contact us we place your thoughts into your file history and use this information on that special day. We want you to enjoy your wedding without worry. We will get those once in a lifetime shots that will be a lasting treasure.
Posted by NORTHWEST R/C PHOTOGRAPHY on December 8, 2005 at 10:31 AM
December 7, 2005
WEDDINGS IN CANCUN
FOR THAT SPECIAL DAY, MAKE MEMORIES LAST ... MEXICO, THE RIVERA MAYA CANCUN, WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY , VANESSA VARGAS PHOTOGRAPHY
vanessavargas@prodigy.net.mx
Posted by VANESSA VARGAS on December 7, 2005 at 09:09 PM
December 5, 2005
Warwick Photography... Our studio
5 December 2005
Our photographers include recipients of national recognition awards by both Kodak and Fuji as some of the top 100 photographers in the nation. They have also received special recognition from the International Professional Photographers' Hall of Fame for outstanding imagery. At Warwick Photography, our highly sought-after style of creative photojournalism and classical portraiture has evolved from real world experience and extensive studio training. With years of experience on staff as newspaper photojournalists, and over twenty-five years photographing weddings both locally and internationally, Warwick Photography has the unique ability to capture the moments and tell the story of your very special day. We look forward to meeting you, and invite you to visit our studio. Please call 314-962-3222 to schedule an appointment. You may also view our work at www.warwickphotography.com
Posted by WARWICK PHOTOGRAPHY on December 5, 2005 at 02:08 PM
December 3, 2005
NEW BASIC WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHY PACKAGE ADDED STARTING AT $495
We recognize there may be those who think they are not able to consider a professional wedding video. This package may be for you. We feel so strongly that you should choose professional videography to preserve your wedding memories, not only for you, but also for generations to come.
This BASIC PACKAGE may help you towards your goal. We will come to the wedding location an hour early to set up and take a few candid shots prior to the ceremony. Then we will shoot the entire ceremony with the same quality of our other packages, including two cameras and wireless and wired microphones. We use the same care to edit your love story into a lifetime memory. Includes two hours coverage and no extra charge for a beautifully edited wedding memory. 1 VHS or 1 DVD.
THE BASIC - Two cameras/videographers for ﾓceremony onlyﾔ coverage, PLUS a few candid shots of the bride, groom, attendants, and the church made into a beautiful slide show with background music.
$495 for VHS
$595 for DVD
The BASIC PACKAGE is not eligible for the current $100 to $400 off special which runs through February 28, 2006.
Best wishes as you do your planning.
Leon Johnson
Johnson Video Productions
www.johnsonvideo.com
(253) 848-0543
Posted by JOHNSON VIDEO PRODUCTIONS on December 3, 2005 at 11:46 PM
FLAUNT Make Over Studio
Christine Gardner presents FLAUNT an upscale Make Over Studio located at 1411 Kalakaua Avenue 
Our services include:
On location hair and make up styling
Flaunt offers bridal services including:
ﾩ Airbrush and traditional makeup
ﾩ Professional hairstyling
ﾩ Airbrush tanning
ﾩ Facial and Body waxing
ﾩ European Facial: Relax and enjoy a 60 minute facial that includes cleansing, exfoliating, massage, mask and be refreshed!
ﾩ Back Facial? Yes! Even out the skin tone and slough off the dead skin cells of your back to create that radiant glow. Great for the special occasions, when you throw on that low back dress!
ﾩ Semi-permanent eyelash extensions: The newest Beauty craze! Semi-permanent eyelashes that will last 3-6 Weeks. Many individual lashes are applied individually to your lashes. Get fuller, longer lashes without having to wear mascara. Get ready to FLAUNT those lashes!
ﾩ Make up artistry and personal make up classes
ﾩ Coming SoonﾅBeauty Bachelorette Parties!!!
Make Over Studio Hours: By appointment (808) 955-7434
FLAUNT
1411 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, Hawaii 96826
www.makeup808.com
Posted by CHRISTINE GARDNER on December 3, 2005 at 04:04 AM
December 2, 2005
A word from Shaun Paul
I am a professional cellist, performer and composer of contemporary and romantic music specializing in wedding ceremony performance. My music is expansive and broad, encompassing a wide range of emotions. As a composer with a passion for film music, I create imaginative, romantic and emotional musical landscapes where I feature the cello accompanied by the power of the symphony orchestra.
When I am performing I experience a great sense of joy, happiness, and fulfillment. The emotions I intend to express in my music always enrich the experience of the ceremony, adding an elevated level of excitement, joy and romance. As a composer of contemporary romantic music and music for film I am devoted to creating music that affects peopleﾒs most basic of human emotions. The experience is very mutual, as I always feel a strong connection to my setting. There is a change in the energy, a calming, yet reflective and inspired state of awareness that allows for a positive and upbeat flow of energy during my presence. I am here to provide music to enhance and make your event more memorable and special. I encourage you to visit my website at: www.shaunpaulweddings.com
Many blessings to you on your journey together!
Posted by SHAUN PAUL WEDDINGS on December 2, 2005 at 06:42 PM
What Brides and Grooms are saying about Shaun Paul
Shaun Paulﾒs music brought out the emotion that we wanted to express during our wedding ceremony and his ability to enhance his live playing with his accompaniment brings the feeling of an entire symphony performing.
-Corey, Seattle
Thoroughly impressed with ever aspect of Shaun Paul's service. His music brought tears to the eye's of many who attended our ceremony. Your music truly touches the heart and soul!
-Jennifer, Bellevue
Posted by SHAUN PAUL WEDDINGS on December 2, 2005 at 04:07 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do you charge?
My base price is $350 for up to 2 hours. This includes music for the entire ceremony as well as during the arrival and exiting of guests.
How do you provide the accompaniment I hear in your music?
Great question. I feature myself as solo cellist on all of my original works as well as my arrangements of traditional music. I bring with me a high end sound system that I use as my accompanying symphony. I like to say I bring the orchestra with me. The end result is a full, rich sound with my performance on the cello being the focus. I can be as loud or soft as needed and have experience indoors and out. I come with all of my own equipment.
What do you perform?
I perform a combination of my own original compositions and traditional wedding classics. I feel my music speaks for itself. My intention is to capture the love, joy, excitement and anticipation of the moment. The music I perform at weddings is very uplifting and inspirational. I am a passionate composer and cellist and I love what I do more than anything.
How do I decide the order and placement of the music?
I will work with you along the way up until the day of the wedding. This is your wedding and I want it to be exactly how you envision it. A lot of people come to me with very specific ideas, while others leave it up to me. I usually suggest bringing me an itinerary of the ceremony. After listening to my selections you decide where you want my music. I am very experienced in wedding performances, if you want to leave it up to me I am also capable of improvising the timings.
Do you ever perform with anyone else?
Yes. I perform with pianists Jeanette Alexander or Stephen Jacob, both northwest composers and performers. When performing together we enhance each other's music in a live and dynamic duo creating a unique sound and performance experience. Although more expensive, we also provide even more variety and generally perform for both the ceremony and the reception. If a real piano is not available at the location of the wedding, both pianists can bring with them high end portable keyboards.
How do I book you for my wedding
Start by contacting me to find out if your date is available. I am available to meet with you if you are local. Your date is only held once the contract is signed and received. See booking policy.
Posted by SHAUN PAUL WEDDINGS on December 2, 2005 at 04:03 PM
