modern
BRIDAL
Inside:
Creating Your Dream Wedding page 2
The Weekend Wedding page 4
Green is the New White page 6
Leave it to the Wedding Party page 10
Food and Wine–The Perfect Marriage page 12
2
Three secrets to creating
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your dream wedding
W
edding season is here and
millions of couples are final-
izing plans for their big day.
But what many couples don’t know is that
there easy ways are to avoid stress while
planning a wedding.
By following these tips, you can focus
on all that is special about your wedding
and reception, and avoid the headaches
that sometimes come along with them.
businesses and 1,000 manufacturers and
❖ Turn your dream into reality suppliers, are located in every state, so
Your wedding day is one of the most you can get all the supplies you need
important days of your life, and is most in one stop. To make finding the rental
likely one you’ve spent hours, days or store nearest you even easier, ARA offers
even years dreaming about. When the RentalHQ.com, the world’s largest and
time finally comes to start planning the most comprehensive rental store locator.
big day, you don’t want to cut corners Here, people planning their wedding and
or settle for a run-of-the-mill, impersonal reception can find the rental store nearest
event. With the help of the American them, read how-to tips and get ideas and
Rental Association (ARA) and your local inspiration for their event.
rental store, you can be sure your wed-
ding day will be one that will be remem-
bered by all.
Rental opens the doors to options you
❖ Enlist the experts
To make planning your big day even
easier, some ARA member rental busi-
New Revel Spa gaining quick
may have never even considered due to
time or budget constraints. A romantic
nesses offer Certified Event Rental
Professionals (CERPs). And most offer on- popularity with wedding parties
outdoor wedding is possible any time of site support, relieving much of the stress
the year with large tents and elegant can- associated with planning a wedding. San Francisco’s newest spa is also one ments include massage treatments (with
opies, equipped with heating or cooling These professionals are ready and willing of its most unique. Since its June opening, Swedish and Reflexology among the
equipment. Make a statement by skipping to share their knowledge and experience Revel Spa has also already become one of options) and facial and skin treatments.
the traditional tiered cake and going with with you, from pre-wedding set-up all the the most popular with Revel offers a number
something more unique, like an impres- way through the day of the event. wedding parties and of well designed spa
sive chocolate fountain with brownie or Deadlines, budgets, decor - these are others in advance of packages as well, rang-
cheesecake bites or an ice cream cart all aspects of a wedding that need to be special occasions, as ing from Revel Beauty to
complete with all the fixings. You can managed and sometimes are better left well as for the discern- Revel Purity for men, and
even create dramatic scenery on the walls to the professionals. CERPs know what ing client who wants the exquisite Revel Well
and ceiling of your venue with a variety of needs to be organized right away, and to enjoy quality ser- Being that includes hot
accent lighting options. what can wait until later. They will think vice and pampering stone massage and herb-
of that one detail that never would have anytime. al soak in a delicious four
❖ Don’t break the bank crossed your mind and keep your budget From architecture hour pampering. Revel
While your wedding day may be the in check.
to ambience, unique Spa also offers couples
most important day of your life, there Enlisting the help of a CERP from your
history to sophisti- massage by request.
is no reason why it has to be the most local rental store will not only ease the
cated interiors, Revel Being both new and
expensive. You can save money on seat- stress and tension of planning an entire
Spa achieves an inviting and relaxing innovative, it’s no wonder that Revel Spa
ing, centerpieces and more by renting. wedding, but it will also ensure that
environment of pure escape. With art has become so popular so quickly with
Why buy all your wedding supplies when the wedding you always envisioned is
you are only going to use them once? the one you will remember for years to and detailed design reflecting the spirit of wedding parties. Fortunately it is also
Why bother paying for their storage and come. From the latest trends and themes, Hanoi, the rich history from the cultural rapidly becoming one of the best.
upkeep after the big day is over? Simplify to innovative budget saving strategies, center of Vietnam infuses with meticulous A peaceful oasis in the center of San
your wedding and your budget by letting CERPs know the ins and outs of planning attention to the latest in relaxation tech- Francisco, the specially crafted environ-
the rental store take care of the cleanup, a wedding. niques to create a meditative and rejuve- ment at Revel assures privacy, seclusion,
maintenance and storage of all your deco- Don’t let the burden of planning your nating experience for all guests. and a quiet escape, whether for a few
rations and supplies. wedding overwhelm you as you approach Specialists are available by appoint- hours or an entire day.
And forget about running all over town, one of the most memorable days of your ment for a variety of spa services aimed Revel Spa is located at 1315 7th
wasting time, energy and money - make life. Make it an enjoyable experience with at total relaxation. Available services Avenue in San Francisco. For more infor-
one stop at your local rental store and the help of ARA and your local rental include hand care and manicure, artificial mation, call (415) 566-8999 or visit www.
get everything you need. ARA members, store. nails, foot care and pedicure, hair removal revelspa.com.
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which include more than 7,000 rental – Courtesy of ARA content and eyebrow/eyelash/makeup. Spa treat-
Wedding Favors, 2010 Style
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E
verybody likes to receive wed- present this donation through cards
ding favors from the couple, with messages of thanks from the orga-
whether it is of the edible kind, nization and from you.
the practical type, or the displayable
variety For your wedding, you are think- ❦ Cancer Research and Patients
ing along this line and looking at cata- You might have a family member
logs for wedding favors like cute wine battling the Big C. Your donation to
bottle stoppers, quirky scented candles, cancer research will warm his heart
sweet mints and candies, delectable and those of your guests, too. You
cookies and cupcakes, sweet picture can check out the hospitals that have
frames and fridge magnets cancer wards and ask around for the
However, you can make your wed- Otherwise, you need to start look- patients who need help the most. You
ding more memorable by giving dona- ing somewhere else lest you run into can also directly donate to cancer
tions to charitable causes of your trouble with the law. With the problems research institutes.
choice. You can always provide for you face in your wedding preparations, trees in the name of your guests. The documentary requirements to
the abovementioned wedding favors if you definitely do not want trouble in For presentation, you can place a make the contribution legal will be more
you have the budget for them and you your wedding favors where there is table card with an image of a tree, complicated but it is worth the trouble.
want concrete objects to have and to none expected. the guest’’s name and your favorite Check out the Make a Wish Foundation,
hold; your guests will surely love your First, determine who and what you tree quote. Your guests will be thrilled The American Cancer Society and your
thoughtfulness. would like to help. This way, you can to know that a tree is planted in their local hospital.
Before you make charitable donations narrow down your wedding favor dona- honor! These donation ideas are just a few
to the organization of your choice, be tions to these choices: but when you put your mind to it, you
sure to do your research. Organizations ❦ Disaster Causes can find other causes to support. How
have different approaches to accepting ❦ Environmental Causes You can donate to organizations help- about feeding the hungry? Or clothing
donations and spending contributions, Visit the website of your favorite envi- ing to assist victims of disaster rebuild the poor?
which you need to be aware of before ronmental group and make a donation their lives. Check out the Twin Towers Whatever you decide on for your
you sign that check. You can check the through your credit card, which should Fund, the Red Cross, the Salvation wedding favors, always remember that
Internet first. take you very little time. You can check Army and any local organization helping it is your thought that counts. If you
You have to make sure that your out National Arbor Day Foundation, your neighbors. decide to give both donations and con-
choice of organization issues an official Save the Elephants, Greenpeace or any Furthermore, you can save on the crete favors, then everybody gets to be
receipt for your donation, which could local environmental group you want. cost of your wedding since you deter- happy on your most special day.
be used for tax deduction purposes. For example, National Arbor will plant mine how much you donate. You can
Specialty Linens: the newest trends and biggest impact
Q&A
Why should I use color, then style. We frame decisions
around the color of flowers, bridesmaid
specialty linens in
dresses, invitations, and the Bride’s favor-
my wedding? ite colors. Next, we look at style. Some
people are romantics and want fabrics
Specialty linens have the biggest that communicate that look, others want
impact when it comes to design because sparkle and glitz, and some Brides prefer
tables are the biggest objects in the a modern, sleek style. We design with
room. Previously, white and ivory were all of those styles in mind. Many Brides
the standard choices for linens and the bring a notebook with photos of ideas
centerpiece was the only way to add and styles that they like. It helps us get
color and design. Linens are like can- a visual image of their preferences and Also there is a lot of emphasis on
vases and they can transform any event personalities, because every wedding is specialty tables.
into an extraordinary visual experience. an opportunity to express individuality.
Just like apparel fabrics, each linen fabric What do you mean by
tells its own story. In fact, many of the What are the latest trends
fabrics currently used in the industry are specialty tables?
apparel fabrics. Bottom line, dollar for in linens? Cake tables, sweetheart tables, bridal
dollar, linens add more design value than Brides are taking more risks with parties, escort tables. These are where
any other component in an event. color, no color is off-limits. Recently, photographers shoot a lot of photos, so
we’ve done a lot of eggplant, violet, we have created linen ensembles that
How do you help Brides chartreuse, and fuchsia weddings, even feature specialty tables within distinct about romance and some of our linens
orange has been popular. Brides are less color ranges. Everything is color coor- are like replicas of beautiful gowns.
choose which linens are right concerned about convention and want to dinated. They have a high “wow factor” and they
for their wedding? express their spirit through the design of The other trend is a return to roman- announce that the guests are at a very
Usually the first decision is about their wedding. ticism. The whole idea of a wedding is special event.
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4
The
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weekend
wedding
S
ay goodbye to the low-key
wedding. Weddings have cer-
tainly become much more
opulent and large-scale and sometimes
they are only the main event in an
entire weekend of wedding festivities.
The trend towards jam-packed wed-
ding weekends has a lot to do with the
distance that many guests travel to
weddings these days. If your favorite
cousin is flying in from Sweden for your not invite people to special events by
nuptials, seeing him for only a few min- e-mail. One caveat: although it is very
utes at your reception hardly seems like thoughtful to have made arrangements
enough time. Often couples will plan for activities your guests will enjoy, do
an entire calendar of events stretching not try to micromanage their every
from Thursday to Sunday. How then, to moment. You cannot impose a minute-
fill all that time, and communicate the by-minute schedule on adults.
details to your guests.
The first step is to get the informa- A typical weekend of wedding nament with lunch served afterwards. on the free time the groom and his guys
tion out to your guests early, in the form events might look like this: For Friday afternoon, put together a list have to start partying before the wed-
of save-the-date cards (many couples Thursday could be a casual lunch of local sites that guests can go see on ding (if you have ever watched those
like to make a first impression with followed by a sightseeing tour. Many of their own, such as shopping, sight, or wedding shows on tv, you will have
creative alternatives to regular paper, your guests may not have arrived yet, great museums. The bridal party will be noticed that drunken groomsmen seem
magnets are particularly popular). Get so keep this day informal and easygo- busy with the rehearsal. It used to be to be a recurring theme!) One thing
these mailed out months in advance of ing. This would also be a good day to that the dinner after the rehearsal only that is wonderful for the bride and her
your wedding; even six months would host a luncheon for your bridesmaids, at included members of the wedding party attendants, if time allows, is a private
not be too early for a wedding held in which time you can present your flower and immediate family, but with so many yoga session. It is the perfect way to
a busy season. This way, your guests girl and bridesmaid gifts. It is much out-of-town guests these days, some- calm those pre-wedding nerves. Then,
can know to set aside a bigger block of better to hand out your bridesmaid gifts times the rehearsal dinner is almost as of course, comes the main event, the
time, including travel. It is not neces- at an intimate lunch or tea than in the large (and elaborate) as the reception. ceremony and reception!
sary to overwhelm your invitees with a midst of the much larger rehearsal din- Because you will need an exact head But it doesn’t end there. Most new-
huge portfolio of specifics at this time, ner. For that evening, provide a list of count, do send out a separate invitation lyweds are waiting one extra day before
the place, dates, and of course the local restaurants, clubs, etc. that your for the rehearsal dinner, which is usually leaving for their honeymoon, so that
bride and groom’s names will suffice. guests might enjoy exploring on their hosted by the groom’s family. they can see their guests one more time
(Guests are not expected to respond own. On this night, it is best not to On Saturday, the wedding day will on Sunday morning. Even those couples
to save-the-date announcements. You plan a gathering that everyone will feel keep the bride and her attendants who did not plan an entire weekend of
should include the phrase invitation to obligated to attend. This also gives the tied up with hair and makeup, but wedding fun often have a brunch the
follow, somewhere on the card, and bride and groom a chance to visit with often couples do still offer something next morning. Start it fairly late (like
they will then R.S.V.P. to that. close family and friends as they start for the guests to do. Another informal 11am or after) so that those who had
Once your guests accept your invi- to arrive. breakfast would be a nice idea to start a late night have a chance to recover.
tation, this is the time to send out a By Friday, things really swing into the day. After that, it depends on the The post wedding brunch is a relaxing
packet outlining all of the activities that gear. You could set up an open break- time that the ceremony begins. For a 1 time for the bride and groom to catch
you have planned. Make the weekend fast that guests can drop into, from, say pm service, breakfast would be plenty, up with their friends and family. The
information coordinate with the rest of 8 -10 am, in a suite in the hotel where because everyone needs time to get brunch is a wonderful way to cap off
your wedding stationary; an envelope most are staying. Follow that with a fun ready. For a 5 or 6pm start time, it might a festive and busy weekend before the
stuffed with photocopies just would activity that will bring everyone togeth- be smart to plan some sort of activity, newlyweds head off to begin their new
not make the same impression. Do er. You might plan a golf or tennis tour- if for no other reason than to cut down life together.
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Lake Tahoe weddings
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with history and a view
The legendary Cal-Neva Resort, Spa and
Casino, located in Crystal Bay, NV, in North Lake Some of the unique venues
Tahoe, is a perfect mixture of rustic mountain and offered by the Cal-Neva
casual comfort, a place where you can relax, and Resort for your special day:
soak up the beauty of Lake Tahoe — and it’s been
that way since its inception in 1927 as the “Lady » The Gazebo. An outdoor patio setting overlooking
Lake Tahoe, with seating for up to 200 people.
of the Lake.”
The original Cal-Neva Lodge was built by » Lake View Chapel. With panoramic 180-degree
Frank P. Sherman, a wealthy San Francisco busi- views, offers indoor seating for up to 120 guests.
nessman who used the Lodge as a guesthouse for » The State Room. With beautiful solid oak paneling
Cal Neva Resort sits on the beautiful North Shore of Lake Tahoe, in his friends and real estate clients. The Cal-Neva and breathtaking Lake view is the ideal setting for
quickly became the playground for celebrities an intimate wedding of up to 40 guests.
the picturesque lake-front community of Crystal Bay, Nevada. We and socialites who wanted to escape from the » The Indian Room. Provides an ‘Old Tahoe’ feel
can manage every aspect of your wedding experience, from the public eye. with its hardwood floors and granite fireplace, can
On May 17, 1937, the Cal-Neva burned to accommodate up to 175 people.
engagement announcement party to the pre-wedding preparations the ground and was rebuilt in just 30 days. Five
» The Frank Sinatra Celebrity Showroom. A
hundred men worked around the clock to finish formal setting with its classic decor and "acoustically
and finally the wedding the new building that included the “Indian Room,” perfect" surroundings could not be more
ceremony and reception. “Circle Bar,” and main “Casino” area. All three spectacular for the biggest celebration of your life,
rooms are still intact today. One of the most sig- with seating for up to 150 guests.
The Resort offers a nificant icons of this property is the California —
Nevada state line that runs through the fireplace weddings. The property now offers 199 lake view
variety of indoor and and continues through the resort’s property and rooms, chalets and cabins, the Cal-Neva Euro Spa,
outdoor lake view popular swimming pool. Casino, Lakeview Dining Room, Fitness Facility,
The Cal-Neva Lodge survived many owners Gift Shop, Arcade, and a selection of indoor and
ceremony and reception during the early years, yet none were as famous outdoor ceremony and reception sites with spec-
or visible as Frank Sinatra. He purchased the tacular views of Lake Tahoe.
venues for your special Cal-Neva and received his gambling license on For the past 25 years the wedding profes-
day. September 20, 1960. Sinatra did an extensive sionals have worked with thousands of couples
remodel that included the now famous “Frank in planning the biggest day of their life. On-site
Resort, Spa Casino
Cal Neva Resort Spa & Casino Sinatra Celebrity Showroom”. The Resort hosted staff offers complete personal assistance with all
many Hollywood celebrities during this era, includ- arrangements to create the perfect day, from the
2 Stateline Rd. | Crystal Bay, NV 89402 | 800-225-6382 ing Sinatra’s famous sidekicks, the “Rat Pack”. rehearsal dinner, to the ceremony and reception.
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Today the Cal-Neva Resort, Spa and Casino is
www.calnevaresort.com a full service destination resort that specializes in
– Courtesy of Cal-Neva Resort
Limited-release hand-crafted Cabernet Sauvignon.
Owners, Mitch & Tracey Hawkins and David Boies
invite you to schedule a private tasting and tour
of their 900 acre Historic Ranch and Vineyard Estate.
(707) 942-4600
Cabernet Sauvignon of World Class Distinction
www.HawkandHorseVineyards.com
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Green is the New White
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I
n the world of engagements and
wedding planning, green is the
new white. From conflict-free
wedding jewelry, to an environmentally-
conscientious reception, with an eco-
friendly honeymoon to round out the
nuptials, couples are throwing out the
era of Bridezilla and ushering in the age
of green weddings. And it all starts with
the wedding jewelry.
Choosing a diamond engagement
ring and wedding bands are incred-
ibly personal decisions that are also
becoming ethical decisions. Socially
aware couples now want to ensure that growing and impressive list of retailers
their wedding jewelry selections are not who support the responsible production
linked to human rights abuses or have of gold.
not negatively impacted the environ- Vintage jewelry is also enjoying a
ment. resurgence in popularity as brides and
grooms opt to purchase estate jewelry
Conflict-free Diamonds or wear wedding rings that have been
Until recent years, newly engaged passed down from a family member.
couples were blissfully unaware that an Eco-friendly weddings aren’t just for something borrowed... something find it here: http://www.nativeenergy.
untold number of corrupt organizations the granola crunching crowd nowadays green? You betcha. Green brides can com/Splash/Portovert/portovert_wed-
in African countries were illegally min- and conflict-free diamond engagement choose lovely, previously-worn gowns ding_calc.html.
ing diamonds that are directly linked to rings and recycled gold wedding jewelry from vintage stores or gown consign- Couples can also offset the carbon
human rights abuses. are just the beginning. As green wed- ment and rental shops. Brides can also emissions produced as a result of their
The good news is that more than 40 dings become more mainstream, the turn to their family tree for a wonderful- nuptials by making contributions to
nations worldwide, including the United options and price ranges are increas- ly sentimental heirloom gown. A num- an eco organization of their choice or
States, now voluntarily participate in the ingly abundant. ber of designers have also embraced requesting that guests do the same in
Kimberly Process, a system that impos- the eco-friendly trend and offer extrav- lieu of a wedding gift.
es stringent requirements on imports Earth-friendly Invitations agant gowns made of hemp silk.
to certify that diamonds are free from Wedding invitations printed with Paying it Forward
conflict. 99.8% of the global production soy- or vegetable-based inks on recy- Wedding Favors Eco-friendly tours, green hotel
of rough diamonds is now accounted for cled paper are a mainstay for green as Decorations resorts, simple outdoor adventures, vol-
through the Kimberly Process. couples. If that’’s not green enough for Organic, locally grown flowers for unteer work for a preservation project
Reputable engagement and wedding you, perhaps paperless invitations are bouquets and centerpieces offer a green honeymoons run the gamut and
jewelry retailers readily confirm the the way to go; simply extend electronic fresh, seasonal touch. Flower arrange- cater to a variety of preferences and
origin of any stone. Online retailers are invitations for guests who can be con- ments used at the wedding can per- budgets. From relaxing and luxuriant
particularly sensitive to consumer con- tacted via email. Emailed RSVPs offer form double duty by being moved to to active and outdoorsy, newlyweds
cerns regarding the genesis of their dia- an added bonus: guests are more likely the reception. Potted plants also make can take their dream green vacation
monds. Leading online retailers actively to respond promptly, allowing you to lovely arrangements and can be trans- that celebrates the beginning of their
educate consumers by providing help- accurately plan your headcount. planted outdoors after the wedding or new life together and the future of our
ful information on their websites to can serve as gifts that guests can take planet.
ensure that accurate information is eas- Location, Location, Location home. And to think that it all began with a
ily accessible. A central wedding location that diamond engagement ring. Green wed-
requires minimal travel for most guests The Gift that Keeps Giving dings provide couples the opportunity
Green Gold? will save on carbon emissions. Booking Portovert Magazine, the nation’s first to make a lifelong commitment to each
For those who truly want guilt-free a venue that can host the wedding online publication devoted exclusively other and to their world. Every wedding
glitter, there are a number of retailers ceremony and reception will further to environmentally and socially respon- anniversary, from the “small” ones to
who offer recycled gold for wedding reduce carbon emissions. Art galleries, sible weddings, and NativeEnergy offer the milestones years is an opportunity
bands and the like. Concerned about botanical gardens, eco-friendly restau- a carbon emissions calculator that can to renew that commitment for now and
a lackluster green ring? Worry not. rants, hotels and parks are all excellent be used to evaluate wedding-related for years to come.
Recycled gold, which is melted and re- choices. carbon sources, including travel, guest Perhaps a future generation will
refined, is the same quality as newly- lodging and power used at the wedding honor that same commitment by choos-
mined gold. Here Comes the Bride venues, which can help in the planning ing to wear your “heirloom” wedding
AZ
NoDirtyGold.org publishes an ever- Something old, something new, of a carbon-neutral wedding. You can jewelry.
7
Barber Lounge can add another
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touch of elegance to wedding week
Funky and chic, comfortable and classy, said Barber Lounge Owner Greg Griffin.
unique SOMA full-service salon the Barber “We’re set up like a massive, beautiful loft
Lounge is helping couples and planners apartment, so it’s the perfect space for
add an additional layer of practical style to people to design their dream party.”
their big events. With plenty of space to mix and min-
The Barber Lounge is a modern spa, gle, a cutting-edge audio/visual system,
salon and barbershop housed in an airy a kitchen and a large dining table, the
5,400 square foot loft. The Barber Lounge can create
chic décor combines funky, a full-service party with a
mid-century modern flair menu of spa services, deli-
with the relaxed vibe of cious catering and funky DJs,
a SOHO loft, which makes or they can simply provide a
for a unique and sophisti- beautiful space and let you
cated party venue. A sea- do the planning.
sonal rotation of curated “We offer everything from
original artwork by some of old school barber shop pam-
California’s best modern art- pering hot towel shaves to
ists contributes to the Barber a full range of spa services,”
Lounge’s elegant feel. Griffin said.
Adding spa services to PHOTO BY WWW.ELISAPHOTO.COM Barber Lounge can also
a bachelor/bachelorette party makes for offer the ease and convenience of onsite
an innovative and distinctive event where wedding services for women and men –
attendees can eat, drink and socialize and and even day-of event parties.
also receive top-quality spa services like The Barber Lounge is located at 854
manicures, pedicures and massages. Folsom Street in San Francisco. For more
“We can provide music, catering and information, call (415) 934-0411 or visit
spa services, or people can make their own www.barberlounge.com.
165119
party and just use our fantastic space,”
Ardenwood affairs…special place
where history meets romance
Wilderness of San Ramon, California, The
Ranch at Little Hills offers a beautiful and
intimate setting for a wedding ceremony &
reception. Though it’s less than ten min-
utes from the city, the park allows guests
a feeling of privacy and escape from the
hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Guests stroll through the main entrance
and come upon the majestic redwood-
Ardenwood Affairs is the East Bay’s surrounded ceremony area. The redwood
premier garden wedding and reception pergola deck is a perfect setting for the
facility. Your guests can stroll through the couple to take their marriage vows, and
beautiful and enchanting gardens that sur- provides a beautiful site for wedding pic-
round the Patterson Mansion, the impres- tures of the bridal party.
sive focal point of Ardenwood. Begin your The grounds are a substantial 25 acres,
perfect day by arriving to your ceremony with plenty of secluded areas for the bride
in an elegant, Victorian horse and carriage. and groom to steal a few minutes after the
An expansive lawn, complete with a white ceremony.
Victorian-style gazebo, provides a won- Behind the ceremony site, on the
derful area for your wedding ceremony. hill under stately oak trees, the recep-
Evening receptions are especially magical, tion takes place under
with old-fashioned oil lanterns glowing on a white canopy tent.
each table. If you like, you can arrange a Lighting has been
special tour of the house, which has been perfected to create a
restored to its 19th-century elegance, or romantic, “candle-lit”
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treat your guests to a trip around the prop- atmosphere.
erty in a gleaming horse-drawn carriage. The Ranch at Little
Hills is a beautiful land-
THE RANCH AT LITTLE HILLS scape for the begin-
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Nestled in the Las Trampas Regional nings of marital bliss!
8
All you have to do is say “I do”
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As a native San Franciscan, Joannie
Liss shares her insider’s view of this
unparalleled city and creates exciting
and memorable events. With more than
Joannie Liss Events designs twenty-five years of event planning expe-
rience, she has built an extensive network
memorable and flawless of the most reliable resources and ven-
dors, which allow her to showcase and FOR BOOKING, CONTACT JOANNIE LISS EVENTS AT 415.775.2020
wedding celebrations that
are rich in imagination and suggest unique event options. Joannie
brings with her a superb aesthetic vision,
creativity up to the minute an eye for detail, and a great passion for
her work.
yet classic. You’ve dreamt about this day forever.
You want it to be perfect. Joannie Liss
specializes in designing and coordinating
weddings that are built personally around
415.775.2020 the bride and groom. We’ll turn your wed-
ww w.jo a n n ie lis s ev e n ts. co m ding dreams into a reality by delivering a
seamless flow that will let you enjoy every
second leading up to your special day.
Joannie Liss Events offers a complete
coordination and entertainment, music
production, concept and theme develop-
ment, customized catering and menu
design, lighting and event décor and per-
sonalized itineraries.
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- Courtesy Joannie Liss
Combining fresh culinary trends
with modern experience
Food quality, fla- Picnic People offers mouth-watering bar-
vor and presentation becue coupled with outstanding service
are the hallmarks of for the client’s picnic needs at a great
Elaine Bell Catering. value.
Well versed in ❖ Elaine Bell Catering is a Full Service
French, Indian, Beverage Company prepared to satisfy all
Mediterranean your beverage needs including top shelf
and Asian-inspired service packages as well as wines named
cuisines, a cre- Green-Certified by the Bay Area Green
ative menu can be Business Program
designed to suit ❖ Delivery services include drop offs
your special tastes. in which a staff member delivers a fully
Elaine Bell Catering also proud- prepared meal to the location of choice
ly announces their Green Certification. for you to enjoy. Drop off meals satisfy
Named the only certified green catering casual as well as corporate dining events
company in Napa County by the Bay ❖ Boxed lunches are another fabulous
Area Green Business Program, Elaine option for those visiting or on-the-go. We
Bell Catering appreciates sustainability offer a variety of gourmet sandwiches and
and the integrity of ingredients used. We fresh salads; the perfect companion on a
strive to use organic, sustainable produce, day of wine tasting and touring
hormone free meats and poultry as well Elaine Bell Catering combines fresh
as wild fish approved by the Monterey culinary trends with modern experience
Aquariums Seafood Watch List. to create truly memorable food, served
Although famously known for their to your guests by gracious, well trained
elegant and breath-taking events, Elaine staff. Always a proponent of “Green
165271
Bell Catering is a service company without Living”, Elaine Bell Catering instills cutting
borders: edge green practices in every aspect of
❖ Picnic People is an energetic and far the company and promotes sustainable
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more casual side to Elaine Bell Catering. agriculture.
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FLORAL & DECOR
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Responsibilities of Blow Salon offers affordability,
F R I D AY, J U LY 3 0, 2 0 1 0
convenience
the wedding party For almost five years, Blow Salon has
been helping clients look and feel their
best, whether on a regular basis or for
their wedding and other special occa-
A
s weddings have become less sions.
regimented and more expen- Blow is a styling only salon that offers
sive, the traditional bridal fabulous professional blow-outs, up-dos
party is often pared down to a best and other services at extremely afford-
man and a bridesmaid or two. Their able prices. Many take advantage of
Blow’s services and low prices in between
roles, however, have remained constant
their regular salon visits to save time and
through the years.
money.
Whether the wedding you’ve got in
Blow Salon also specializes in Brazilian
mind is large or small, formal or casual,
blow-outs, Keratin treatments that help
conventional or original, it’s helpful to
make for smoother and healthier hair.
have a sense of the roles that bridal
Other services range from the quick
party members have played through
and inexpensive “Hustle & Blow” to the
the years. Wedding party participants have Margaret Josephin deep conditioning
more responsbilities than simply treatment.
» Maid of Honor: enjoying the celebration with
the new bride or groom. Of course, Blow Salon also services home service for clients for any occasion
Usually the closest friend of the bride many wedding parties and their experts with advance booking.
and sometimes a relative. A married, can help make the entire wedding party Blow Salon has locations downtown
divorced, widowed, or older woman as groomsmen) look their best – both in-house and on and in the Marina District. For locations,
might be called the matron of honor. should be pre- location nearby or as far away as Napa services offers and other information visit
She assists with the details of the wed- pared for an early and Santa Rosa. In fact, Blow Salon offers www.blowmyhair.com.
ding plans, like shopping for the bridal arrival at the cer-
gown, addressing invitations and choos- emony to escort
ing flowers. She arranges the bridal
shower in conjunction with the bride’s
female guests
to their seats.
Teamwork is key to top wedding
family, is in charge of coordinating the
bridesmaids and organizing fittings, and
During the
c e r e m o ny, artist Sarah E. Hyde
typically signs the couple’s certificate of they will
marriage or wedding license as a legal escort the Sarah E. Hyde is
witness. At the reception, she should bridesmaids down the aisle. They may one of the Bay Area’s
stand immediately after the groom in also be asked to coordinate the guests’ best-known upscale
the receiving line. trip from the ceremony to the reception hair stylist and
as well as assist the groom and the best makeup artists spe-
» Best Man: man.
cializing in weddings
and special events. A
Commonly the groom’s best friend,
» Flower Girl and Ring Bearer: highly-sought name
relative or not, the best man is in
in the beauty indus-
charge of instructing the ushers and The flower girl carries a basket of try, Sarah, a native
coordinating the groom’s transportation flower petals to sprinkle down the aisle, New Yorker has lived
to the ceremony. He usually holds the or flowers to be passed out to the and trained in many
rings until the ceremony and will also women seated near the aisle. The ring of the world’s fash-
sign the marriage certificate as a legal bearer may either escort the flower girl ion meccas, including
witness. At the reception, he holds a down the aisle, or follow her, with the Manhattan, London can also be seen on the websites and
place of honor, escorting the maid of rings on a pillow. and Paris. blogs of many of the hippest photog-
honor in the receiving line and in all Inspired by a love of fine art, raphers from coast to coast.
other wedding party activities. He’s also » Father of the Bride: fashion, beauty, and people, Sarah’s Now Sarah leads a team of highly-
the toastmaster, offering the first toast His most conspicuous duty is giving extensive experience in commercial skilled artists who work together to
to the couple. away the bride at the ceremony. He advertising and in the business of ensure that every event is exquisite
beauty, having been a stylist at 77 and unique. It is that teamwork that
might also fulfill numerous rolls, such
» Bridesmaids and Ushers: Maiden Lane Salon and Spa, enables enables Sarah to serve clients in the
as coordinating transportation, dancing
her to produce custom creations that Bay Area, Wine Country and beyond.
Typically friends or relatives of the and toasting. Traditionally, he and the are unique and beautiful for every Specializing in destination wed-
bride, bridesmaids may be asked to mother of the bride have paid for the client. dings, Sarah’s team consists of some
coordinate special details during the wedding and reception but today it is Sarah’s work is consistently fea- of the best artists in the field.
ceremony preparations or at the recep- common for expenses to be shared by tured in top magazines (i.e. Elegant For more information, call (415)
tion, and assist the bride and the maid both families along with the bride and Bride, Town and Country, Martha 383-4720 or visit www.sarahhyde.
of honor. Ushers (sometimes also known groom themselves. Stewart Weddings, InStyle, etc.) and com.
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we BLOW and
we BLOW really well
BLOW is the only full service salon
specializing in styling. BLOW
offers fabulous, professional
BLOW-outs, updos, make-up
and more at incredibly
affordable prices
224 Kearny St. (cross street Sutter), S.F. CA 94108
163568
415.989.BLOW • www.blowmyhair.com
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M A N I C U R E S • P E D I C U R E S • M A K E U P
S PA PA C K A G E S • FA C I A L S
Sonia’s Apparel
• M A S S A G E T R E AT M E N T S Offers Unique Selections for
The Sassy Mother of The Bride
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S A N F R A N C I S C O , C A 9 4 1 1 2 Sonia’s Located
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sarah e. hyde
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Specializing in Destination Weddings
hair and make-up
team
www.sarahhyde.com
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415.710.9242
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Food and wine: How to
F R I D AY, J U LY 3 0, 2 0 1 0
create a perfect marriage
W
eddings are one of life’s • Ah, dessert. It might be your guests’ ily agrees. “Riesling is a delicious wine
most celebrated occasions. favorite course, and for a wedding, pairing option for wedding desserts. It
For brides- and grooms- it can truly be a showpiece. Let the may also help a couple’s budget too,
to-be and their families, an incredible dessert reflect the couple’s sweet because it can be paired with both the
amount of creativity and planning is tooth, and remember Riesling is a first and main courses, as well as des-
poured into this all-important day: from lovely accompaniment to most wed- sert.”
the wedding gown to the ceremony, ding desserts. For more wedding inspiration, as
from the invitations and flowers to the well as video tips, Aida’s recipes and
wedding cake itself. One of the most- David Mirassou, sixth-generation David’s food and wine pairings, visit
remembered details is what guests are of America’s oldest winemaking fam- Mirassou.com.
– Courtesy of ARA content
served, so the wedding menu should
reflect the couple-to-be’s unique style
and personality.
Aida Mollenkamp, host of the popu-
lar Food Network show “Ask Aida” says,
“The food you serve should be like your
dress - reflect you and fit you like a
glove - so, if you prefer a cupcake tower
to a cake, go for it!”
Tips for a memorable
wedding menu
• Find your inspiration. Couples should
think back on their relationship, and
choose a meaningful place or a time
that will inspire their food and wine
choices.
• Indulge. This is a celebration so for-
get about calories and choose the
food and wine that truly reflects the
couple.
• But don’t lose yourself. Remember,
the wedding day is supposed to
reflect who the bride and groom are.
If they aren’t fans of foie gras and
caviar, now is not the time to serve
it.
• Personalize. Consider displaying
menus at each place setting that
describe the couple’s food and wine
pairings - and include anecdotes for
why they were chosen.
• Last all night. It’s a marathon to
make it from the ceremony to the
reception for the bride and groom
and their guests. Make sure the food
is substantial enough to keep every-
one filled, yet light enough that they
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don’t slip into a groggy fog. Courtesy of ARA
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Oceano Hotel & Spa
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Half Moon Bay Harbor
The perfect seaside wedding destination
A quaint, artsy Main Street…miles of adjoining Cypress Courtyard before retir-
shoreside trails and nature habitats… ing to the tented garden or the Oceano
world-class golf, surfing and fishing…. As Grand Ballroom for the reception.
if there wasn’t enough to love about Half This beautiful new banquet space is
Moon Bay, we’ve discovered another com- embellished with ornate crown molding, Art
pelling reason to cele- Deco wall sconces
brate in this secluded and a trio of crystal
oasis: Oceano Hotel chandeliers. The
and Spa. Conceived soothing neutral
as a cutting-edge palette—soft gold,
model of environmen- vanilla and a touch
tal sensitivity, Oceano of sea-green—
is not only one of lends an upscale
the greenest hotels in ambiance to your
California, it’s also one wedding din-
of the most inviting. ner. (Incidentally,
First off, consider Oceano has superb
the location, just a cuisine, and their
few minutes north knowledgeable
of town center over- and experienced
looking Pillar Point Executive Chef
Harbor. Sailboats bob will sit down with
and sway in the mari- you to design your
na, dolphins cavort menu.) When it’s
beyond the breakers, time for dancing,
and in the distance five sets of double
the Santa Cruz coast- doors swing open
line is etched along a watery-blue pan- to the Atrium, a stylish annex aglow in
orama. The hotel lobby’s creamy marble moonlight from a sky-lit ceiling. Your
elegance is equally uplifting, and the reception can also take place in the cus-
Great Room just beyond the foyer has tom designed white garden tent complete
all the charm of a luxurious, sun-washed with Palladian windows and vaulted ceil-
beach house. Three stories of guestrooms ings. This majestic reception site over
encircle this cozy yet airy space, bathed looks the tranquil harbor and is the perfect
in a natural light from its vaulted atrium setting for a fairy tale wedding.
ceiling. The magic of the sea whispers at Though Half Moon Bay has plenty of
Oceano: A replica of a schooner sits atop diversions, your guests really don’t need
a grand fireplace mantle, and overstuffed to leave Oceano at all. There’s an on-site
sofas surround a whimsical glass coffee spa offering indulgent treatments, and
table that encases starfish, seashells and the hotel’s shopping promenade, Harbor
coastal mementos in a bed of sand. The Village, features select boutiques, cafés
entire boutique hotel is peppered with and galleries—all with colorful façades
such well-chosen decorative details, all of reminiscent of a Nantucket village. The
which maintain the seaside motif. enclosed promenade, which is flooded
You and your event guests will also with natural light thanks to a glass roof,
be delighted by your spacious accom- is a great place for a stroll year-round and
modations. High ceilings, fireplaces and it’s also available for events.
plantation-style furniture make you want Perhaps the most endearing aspect of
to move right in. Thoughtful amenities this sea-inspired sanctuary is its warm and
like Aveda bath products, super-soft tow- enthusiastic service: The staff is genuinely
els and organic bamboo sheets seduce eager to help you realize your own per-
you with plush comfort. Step out to your sonal wedding vision. In short, Oceano is
oceanview balcony and experience Half a real class act only Twenty-five minutes
Moon Bay’s dual personality: On an easy, from downtown San Francisco and the San
breezy afternoon, sunlight glistens on the Francisco international airport.
waves and brown pelicans dive for their With it’s recent 2010 accolades, “Voted
dinner; then in an instant, curls of mist roll Best Wedding Venue in the SF Bay Area”
in with the setting sun and the bellow of by the San Francisco Chronicle website
foghorns adds a romantic mystique. SF Gate, a “Brides Choice Award” from
Speaking of romance, ceremonies are WeddingWire.com and “The #1 rated
utterly picturesque out on the Wedding hotel in Half Moon Bay” by Trip Advisor the
Garden, a sweep of landscaped lawn fac- best available 2011 dates are booking fast
ing the harbor. A stone pathway leads to so definitely tour this outstanding beach-
a white gazebo where you can exchange side property soon.
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vows. Afterwards, serve cocktails on the – Courtesy of Here Comes The Guide.
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Fall in love with
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these fall
wedding ideas
S
pring and summer may be that sport autumnal reds and golds, and
the seasons that first come to you’ll have a sure win.
mind when you begin plan-
ning a wedding, but autumn has a lot ✧ Favor the fall
to offer brides too. From cooler, dryer Brides looking for truly unique wed-
weather and the glorious backdrop of ding favors will find that the variety of
fall colors to the opportunity to land a fall wedding favors available makes it
great deal on a reception venue, fall easy to put their personal stamp on
delivers many rewards for couples on their wedding. “Favors are an important
the road to wedded bliss. part of any wedding,” Miller says. “After
“We’re seeing increased interest in all, they’re the keepsakes that will
fall weddings,” says Raymond Miller of hopefully remind your guests for years
My Wedding Reception Ideas.com, a to come of how much they enjoyed
leading online resource for brides seek- your special day.”
ing unique wedding favors and other Whether they’re whimsical (pear-
items. “Brides love the natural colorful- shaped scented soaps), practical (oak
ness of the season and the weather leaf keychains) or sophisticated (bronze
tends to be more reliable and comfort- metal fall leaf wine bottle stoppers),
able for outdoor weddings. In fact, fall wedding favors are a great way
autumn may soon surpass spring as a to underscore a wedding’s autumnal
preferred month to hold a wedding.” theme. Choosing favors that allow for
If you’re planning your nuptials optimum personalization - like person-
for harvest season, Miller offers some alized candy apple boxes that you fill
advice for incorporating the best ele- with a homemade version of the clas-
ments of the season in your big day. sic autumn treat - will also help guests
remember your wedding with warmth
✧ Cash in on color and fondness. You can find ample fall
Vibrant reds, dazzling oranges, glit- wedding favor ideas at My Wedding
tering golds and bold browns - fall’s Reception Ideas.com.
palate is a glorious profusion of colors
unique to the season. Autumn brides ✧ Accessorizing with autumn
should revel in the season’s colors, Don’t forget to continue your
drawing the hues of fall into all aspects autumn theme throughout your wed-
of their weddings, from bridesmaid ding with fall themed wedding acces-
gowns to table linens, floral arrange- sories. You can find leaf-motif unity
ments and fall wedding favors. candles, napkins and guest towels in
“Fall colors offer many advantages fall colors, autumn-themed invitations
when it comes to planning a wedding,” and save-the-date cards, cake serving
Miller says. For example, it’s easy to sets with maple leaf details, and a
mix and match more than one fall color host of other items that all play to a
Courtesy of ARA
because they tend to naturally comple- fall theme.
ment each other. For a spring wedding, Floral arrangements also offer a mums or gardenias, or out-of-season touches that are special to the season.
it might be difficult to find just the right chance to convey an autumn theme flowers that sport fall colors, you can For more fall wedding favors, acces-
floral colors to enhance a particular and do something unique at the same accent arrangements with brightly hued sories, and decoration ideas, visit www.
shade of lavender bridesmaid gown. time. Whether you opt for arrange- leaves, branches, berries, cornstalks, myweddingreceptionideas.com.
ments that feature fall flowers, like hay and other natural or nature-inspired
AZ
But pair bronze gowns with flowers – Courtesy of ARA content
15
F R I D AY, J U LY 3 0, 2 0 1 0
SUNDAY, AUGUST 15, 2010
THE RITZ-CARLTON, SAN FRANCISCO
tep into the most luxurious bridal event of 2010, lled with decadent hors d’oeuvres and gourmet tas ngs from
renowned chefs, champagne and mar ni bars, the glamour of the Vera Wang and Monique Lhuiller High Fashion
Runway Show and over 80 magni cent exhibits lling the ballrooms of San Francisco’s only Five-Star, Five Diamond hotel.
Doors open 11-4 • Admission is $20.
Purchase ckets online at www.ModernLuxuryWeddings.com
OCTOBER 9 & 10 • SAN FRANCISCO CONCOURSE
20 10 K E YN O T E S P E A K ER S
Over 500 Irresistible Shopping Booths!
INDULGE IN COMPLIMENTARY DELIGHTS INCLUDING:
• Martini and Wine Tasting Lounges • High Fashion Runway Shows
• Hair Makeover Pavilion • Manicures and Facials
DIANE KEATON K IRST IE A L LEY
• Holiday Entertaining Stage • Inspiring Seminars
Saturday at 1PM Sunday at 1PM • Makeovers at the Beauty Lounges • Massage Garden • Cooking Theater
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AND ENTER TO WIN THE ULTIMATE GIRLFRIENDS GETAWAY TO LOS CABOS, MEXICO
ADMISSION IS $10 • SAN FRANCISCO CONCOURSE • 635 8TH ST., SAN FRANCISCO • 866.618.3434
ZA
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