Wedding Guide WEDDINGS TO REMEMBER laid back ceremonies for today’s couples PAGE 4
FRAME YOUR DAY with the perfect wedding photographer PAGE 10
January 25, 2017
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
2017 Supplement to Siuslaw News & Cottage Grove Sentinel
2 Wedding
Guide • Wednesday, January 25, 2017
The perfect gown for a perfect day
Engagement, Wedding and Valentine’s Day Jewelry
any brides-to-be
Florence Antiques
M visit bridal shops
with specific goals in mind regarding the style of their wedding gowns. Some women come equipped with magazine tear-outs or pull up ideas on their mobile phones. Others may have an entire scrapbook filled with various ideas they’ve been compiling for years. Much consideration is given to wedding gowns. The cost and silhouette of the dress may garner the bulk of that consideration, but brides might want to spend more time considering comfort.
Your Vintage Jewelry Source
Depending on the time of day their weddings take place, brides can spend 12 hours or more in their wedding gowns on their wedding day. See
THE DRESS 8
Ask a Gift R bout our eg Laya istry and way P lan
All Wedd in Jewe g lry
20%
OFF
494 Hwy. 101 • Florence
541-997-8104
Wednesday, January 25, 2017 • Wedding Guide
2017
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Wedding Guide TABLE OF CONTENTS COURTESY PHOTOS
ON THE COVER: Allie and Casey Carver (pictured here with their wedding party) met during bowling practice. Their first official date was a day on the Oregon coast and they dated for more than five years before tying the knot in the summer of 2016. The wedding was rustic and made even more memorable by the couple’s son, Bentley. Just a few months old at the time of his parents’ ceremony, Bentley served as a groomsman and was carried down the aisle by maid of honor, Gracie Stewart, and best man, Adam Rust. “He was holding a sign that said, ‘Daddy, here comes Mommy’ and I’ll never forget that,” Allie said.
Finding the perfect dress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The rise of casual weddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Make outdoor weddings work for you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Find the perfect ring at Florence Antiques . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Build your wedding budget — together . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Plan for creative floral arrangements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 How to pick a wedding photographer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Outdoor Weddings
Flawless Wedding Arrangements Talk to our talented designers today about the right floral package for your wedding.
~Secluded setting among old-growth trees, peaceful stream, and rose garden
Florence in Bloom om Full Service Flower Shop Owners: Gary and Sharon Cargill
541-997-5391 1234 Rhododendron Dr Florence, OR. 97439
www.stewartfamilyfarm.com • 541.995.8659 • 541.517.2823
Angie’s Alterations
Weddings by the Sea Mary Claire Cook
Custom Sewing – Alterations – Repairs
On the beautiful Oregon coast, you choose the setting... A small log church, a lighthouse, a stone shelter high above Cape Perpetua, a clearing in the woods, under an old growth Sitka spruce, aboard a cruiser on a bay or river, atop a rocky shoreline... This is the place for a most special union. One that is yours and yours alone.
541-547-4547
toll free: 866-363-0041
Yachats, OR
CUSTOM WEDDING AND FORMAL WEAR • ALTERATIONS 4005 Hwy. 101 #1 • Florence, OR 97439
541-902-7231 angiesalterations@hotmail.com
Angela Barrett ~ Lisa Spencer
4 Wedding
Guide • Wednesday, January 25, 2017
A wedding to remember
Brides and grooms are choosing to personalize their weddings — from venues to wardrobe — to fit their personalities and budgets.
Casual, intimate weddings see resurgence legant, lavish weddings provide moments couples will remember for years to come. But while such storybook ceremonies and receptions remain popular, casual affairs are gaining popularity. According to the bridal resource The Knot, more and more couples are opting for less pageantry and more laid back panache when planning their weddings. For those who prefer something more intimate and more personalized, casual weddings may be right on target. There are many advantages to having a “luxe with less” wedding,
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including the ability to break molds allowing for an exciting and enjoyand impart more of the couple’s per- able event. To put casual plans into motion, sonality into the event. Another advantage is the price tag. consider these ideas to help the wedThe average U.S. wedding, accord- ding vision come to fruition. ing to The Knot 2014 Real Weddings VENUE Catering halls and other reception Study, costs $31,213. In some urban areas, particularly New York City, sites do a wonderful job of meeting average costs are three times that the needs of their clientele. However, amount. Golden Girl Finance, a food and beverage costs are often the leader in financial digital media, has most expensive wedding expense. To reduce the found that Canadian weddings “If music be the food of love, per-guest cost and also incorporate average $31,000 play on.” with honeymoon some variety into — WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE, “TWELFTH NIGHT” their wedding days, included. couples can considAlthough wedding costs have gone up, the average er a venue change. Look for public number of wedding guests has gone locations that allow couples to hire down. As such, certain couples might their own caterer, which may be a look to rein in other aspects of their favorite restaurant or specialty food wedding. Transforming the festivi- shop. The cost per person may ties into a casual affair can help keep decrease dramatically from the the overall budget low while still venue costs.
Changing the venue also enables couples to pick unique spots that may hold special meaning to them. For example, couples can choose the site of their first date or the location where their proposal took place. CONTRAST Enjoy a casual, free-spirited wedding that incorporates some aspects of formality in an off-beat way. Think about serving fast food, such as fried chicken or pizza, on fine china. Those wearing tuxedos and gowns can opt for casual footwear, such as athletic shoes. Place wildflowers in crystal vases. These are just some methods to give a rich feel without removing the fun element. PERSONAL TOUCHES Menus or wedding programs printed at home in a fun font can set the casual tone couples are looking for. See
CASUAL WEDDINGS 8
Wednesday, January 25, 2017 • Wedding Guide
Valley River Inn makes every love story beautiful t Valley River Inn, each event is customized to make your dreams come true. With a variety of rustic, grand-lodge settings and sunlight-filled river views on a natural location within city limits, the inn accommodates parties from one to 1,000. “Every love story is beautiful—we can’t wait to hear yours!” Life is better on the river, and we want to encourage all styles and all couples to come talk with us on Feb. 11 between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. We will be showcasing our true Valley River Inn style with the funky/edgy trends and hipster styles as we embrace a “love all” attitude and let’s not forget the clas-
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sic old vintage creations too! Living on the edge and being non-traditional is our forte; let’s make your ceremony, reception or celebration just as unique as you are! Is tradition what you are looking for? We are not adverse to keeping with tradition and holding true to the classic sophistication of beautiful timeless weddings. Our enchanting courtyard and river view ballrooms can enhance the organic beauty of love here at the Valley River Inn. For more information, contact Valley River Inn at 1000 Valley River Way in Eugene, call 541-743-1000 or visit www.ValleyRiverInn.com.
The value in hiring a DJ n today’s day and age, with the advancement of technology and portable music and sound, the value of hiring a DJ for any occasion seems to be an unnecessary cost for many. Everyone seems to know a friend of a friend that can “DJ” their event. However, with a little research, one can see that there is more than meets the eye when hiring a mobile entertainer. Here are a couple things to consider when debating on whether to hire a professional or not. The term “disc jockey” (DJ) is perhaps a bit outdated. Most mobile entertainers have gone digital, utilizing mp3 files and professional DJ mixing software to provide music. They use high quality licensed files that they have paid for, and usually making sure that they are radio edit to be appropriate for your event. The software they use is costly, designed to provide many effects, including smooth transitions between songs so that the music format is not choppy. Amateurs and hobby DJ’s will often use simple programs like iTunes or Windows Media Player to play music. This results in a line of music with breaks between each song, and awkward silences on the dance floor. Professional DJ companies also pride them-
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selves on being an MC, or Master of Ceremonies. They have spent years learning the ins and outs of a wedding or special event. They can often act as a coordinator the day of the event, working with the client for months prior to the big day to plan the details. Hiring a professional will give you ease of mind on the day of your celebration, knowing that you can sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor, allowing them to run the show — making announcements, collaborating with the other hired professional vendors and helping you achieve your perfect day. Rising Phoenix Productions has been in business since 2004, helping clients create the perfect celebration, no matter the occasion. With online planners for every type of event, online music database, high-end pro audio equipment, and mobile entertainers professionally trained in all aspects of traditional events, planning and coordination. Rising Phoenix offers DJs, karaoke, trivia, wedding officiating and photo booths. Contact Rising Phoenix today, at 541-9536222 for a detailed quote or visit www. rppdj.com, to see how it can best assist you.
Elegant Weddings & Receptions
Cottage Grove’s Premier Florist Since 1984 Let us help you with Flowers & Plants Oregon Grown Roses • Large selection of Quality Fresh Cut Flowers Premium Blooming and Green Plants • Creative Floral Design for all Occasions Fresh & Silk Floral Arrangements
Clothing Boutique &ORWKLQJ ¬6FDUYHV¬ $FFHVVRULHV -HZHOU\
Gifts Home Accessories • Candles • Cards • Mylar Balloons • Beautiful Gift Selection &KRFRODWHV -HOO\ %HOO\·V &DQG\
Discover fine varietal wines at Cottage Grove’s only winery. Beautiful tasting area and winery overlooking a private 24 acre lake, surrounded by magnificent fir covered hills.
• WINE TASTING • WEDDINGS • RECEPTIONS • PRIVATE DINNERS • MEETINGS • HOLIDAY PARTIES 13 miles west of Cottage Grove. Once in Lorane, follow the signs to the tasting room. Call ahead for hours or appointment. www.chateaulorane.com
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541-942-8028
Weddings Personalized Wedding Flowers • Invitations • Corsages • Bridal Bouquets • Reception & Ceremony Flowers
Service Serving the Cottage Grove Area since 1984 • Over 75 years of combined Floral Design Experience • Friendly and Professional Staff to serve you • Delivery available • Flowers by wire anywhere
Open Monday through Saturday at 9:00 am
119 S. 6th Street, Cottage Grove 541-942-0505 www.cottagegroveflowerbasket.com
6 Wedding
Guide • Wednesday, January 25, 2017
Making Making the the outdoors outdoors work work with with you you
CURT PETERS/DIGITAL DUNES PHOTOGRAPHY
ature can make a couple’s wed• Establish a cutoff time. ding day that much more spe- Depending on how remote the cerecial. Beautiful backdrops like mony location is, couples might be ocean waves or rolling country hills able to wait until a few hours before lend a lot to a wedding, making the their weddings to decide if they will day even more special for couples and still tie the knot outdoors. Make the their guests. But Mother Nature is the call earlier if your wedding is to be inherent risk of hosting an outdoor held at an especially remote location. wedding. Establishing a cutoff time will let Weather is unpredictable, and cou- guests know if the wedding will be ples who hope to tie the knot in the indoors or outdoors. Include such great outdoors must develop a contin- information on your wedding website gency plan just in case Mother Nature and/or invitations. Use a social media decides to rain on platform such as the parade. While “It is such a happiness when Facebook or Twitter outdoor wedding to inform guests of good people get together — venues often have your final decision. and they always do.” backup venues in • Provide umbrel— JANE AUSTEN, “EMMA” place should the las. Some inclement weather prove weather may not be uncooperative, couples can take some enough to deter couples or guests from additional steps to ensure their rainy braving the great outdoors. Couples wedding days still go off without a getting married in the summer may be hitch. able to withstand a summer shower, • Find a place to take photos. Many but provide guests with umbrellas just couples arrange for outdoor photos to be safe. The umbrellas will make whether they’re tying the knot indoors for a nice wedding gift, and hopefully or outdoors. But couples must arrange couples and guests won’t even need to for a place to take photos in case out- use them. doors is not an option. If possible, • Insure the wedding. Couples who walk the grounds of your ceremony or are hosting destination weddings on reception site with your photographer tropical isles should look into insuring to scout out potential areas to shoot their weddings. Such islands might be indoors in case the weather is not susceptible to harmful storms like hurcooperating. ricanes that can prevent weddings • Consider a tent. They can be from taking place. Insurance can expensive, and some couples may not cover couples for a host of unforeseen want to pay for a tent they ultimately circumstances, including weather. may not use. But tents may be a couOutdoor weddings can be magical, ple’s only option if their chosen venue and the right precautions ensure the has no indoor alternatives. day remains a joyful affair. — Metro
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How to build your wedding budget ouples engaged to be married have
C a lot on their plates as they begin
planning their weddings. Whereas tradition once demanded parents of the bride pay for a couple’s wedding, nowadays more and more engaged couples are completely or partially financing their own nuptials. That means prospective brides and grooms must develop wedding budgets that won’t ensure their first act as Mr. and Mrs. is paying down debt. In its 2015 Real Weddings Study, online bridal resource The Knot found that many couples still receive substantial financial support from their parents to pay for their weddings. The survey found that, on average, the bride’s parent’s contributed 44 percent of the overall wedding budget in 2015, while couples financed 43 percent (the remaining 13 percent was financed by the groom’s parents and additional sources). Couples who hope to follow that formula or pay for their weddings on their own can heed the following tips to build wedding budgets that won’t break the bank but will still ensure a day to remember forever. • Examine your collective finances. Few couples know the details of each other’s finances before getting engaged. While some may still hesitate to share their personal financial information upon getting engaged, an open and honest discussion and examination of each person’s finances is the only way to develop a realistic wedding budget that both partners can live with. • Develop a preliminary guest list.
This can give couples an idea of how large and expensive their weddings will be. According to the Real Weddings Study, the average cost per wedding guest in 2015 was $237. While that cost can vary greatly depending on geography and other factors, couples should keep that figure in mind when drafting their guest lists. If need be, keep costs down by trimming the guest list so it includes only close family members and friends. • Don’t count on gifts. Many couples justify runaway wedding budgets by telling themselves that they will ultimately get the money back via wedding gifts. While many guests will give financial gifts, counting on such windfalls is a recipe for accruing debt. • Gather quotes before choosing where to tie the knot. Where couples get married will have a great impact on how much money they will spend on their weddings. Venues within the same city can vary greatly with regard to pricing and offerings as well, so couples should give themselves ample time to gather quotes and find an affordable venue they like. • Build extra costs into your budget. Remember to include a little extra for unforeseen costs. Weddings are large undertakings, and it’s reasonable to expect some unforeseen costs to arise. Building such costs into your initial budget will make these unforeseen circumstances that much easier to handle. Budgets can help couples stay on track and avoid debt as they plan their weddings. — Metro
Coast Jewelers offers fine jewelry as unique as you and your day t Coast Jewelers it’s about the
A experience — of being accepted
as the unique individual you are and of having your wants and needs heard. Who you are, your lifestyle and your dreams for the future all affect your choice of fine jewelry. You are unique, so your jewelry should be, too. Coast Jewelers represents the individual.
Come visit the showroom at 1220 Bay St., Suite 100, in Florence. It is open Tuesday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., or by appointment.
Wednesday, January 25, 2017 • Wedding Guide
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Maybe it’s Megaleen makes your Florence Antiques: Engagement, day as beautiful, special as you are wedding and Valentine's Day jewelry hen the bride to be is searching for a trustworthy and dedicated makeup artist during the most important time in her life, it can feel like a daunting task, especially when there are so many other things to consider for the big day. Looking for the right person who has the proper techniques and ability to help you look beautiful in photographs as well as in person means you will want to choose someone who can make you look flawless yet natural at the same time. That’s why Megan Sayre, owner of Maybe It’s Megaleen of Cottage Grove, would like the bride and groom to know she offers her services for engagement photos, rehearsal dinners and weddings — including all members of the wedding party and mothers of the bride and groom. Licensed and insured, Sayre makes sure that each new client is presented
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with recommendations and photos of past clients. Using HD/camera ready makeup, she offers a trial run before any engagement photos or wedding photos are taken, so that you can be sure that your makeup will look the way you want it to. This also makes it possible to discuss any changes you may want before your wedding day. Bridal packages are available, which includes traveling to your wedding destination, and complimentary makeup for flower girls that are 10 years old and younger. The time and money you put into looking your best on your wedding day goes beyond the wedding day itself. You will be left with memorable photos that reflect just how beautiful and special your day was for many years to come. For more information, go to Facebook.com/MaybeItsMegaleen or call 541-623-0133.
BASIC INFORMATION FOR ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS P LEASE
ocated at 494 Highway 101 in Florence since 2010, Florence Antiques proudly specializes in vintage estate jewelry, fine art and antique furniture. Whether you are furnishing your home or looking for a wonderful, one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry, we might just have what you are looking for in one convenient location.
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Eugene, OR
Phone: 541-554-7979
Ideally located in the heart of the Florence Antiques District, we represent the best along the central Oregon coast. During the month of February, all of our wedding and engagement rings for brides and grooms or the upgrading of original wedding sets for that special anniversary will be 20 percent off.
sean@my-partybus.net
www.my-partybus.net
INSERT THE FOLLOWING ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT:
Name of Bride:___________________________City in which she resides:____________________ Name of Groom:__________________________City in which he resides_____________________ Names of Bride’s parents:___________________________________________________ City(s) where they reside :__________________________________________________ Names of Groom’s parents:_____________________________________________________ City(s) where they reside:__________________________________________________________ Date & place of intended ceremony:_________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________ You may also include additional information about the bride & groom: such as schools attended or graduated from; current employment; service in the armed forces, etc. _______________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Name of person supplying this information: ________________________________________________________________________________ Contact phone no.______________________________Date:______________________________
Siuslaw News 148 Maple Street Florence, OR 97439 Phone: (541) 997-3441 Fax: (541) 997-7979
Cot tage Gr ove Sen tinel 116 N. Sixth Street Cottage Grove, OR 97424 Phone: (541) 942-3325 Fax: (541) 942-3328
THE LEADING LUXURY TRANSPORTATION IN LANE COUNTY Our luxury limo bus is your ticket to a good time. From wine and brewery tours to weddings, birthdays or just a night out on the town, we’re here to provide you with a safe and fun ride in the style and comfort you deserve.
PHOTOGRAPHS ALSO MAY BE SUBMITTED. TRUE PHOTOS OR ELECTRONIC FILES (JPEGS ONLY).
Forms also are available online: www.thesiuslawnews.com or www.cgsentinel.com
MyPartyBusLimo |
@mypartybus1 |
mypartybus
8 Wedding
Guide • Wednesday, January 25, 2017
shapely legs, consider a dramatic gown with a slit to show them off. Certain gowns can enhance the decolHowever, when shopping for their lete or show off an hourglass shape. • Remember, many gowns can be gowns, brides may prioritize beauty over comfort, even though it’s entire- modified so that you feel secure and ly possible to find a gown that’s both confident. Sleeves can be added or stunning and comfortable. When staff fabric placed to cover up any perand friends or family who have come ceived flaws. Confidence and pride along to offer advice start to gush over are important parts of the comfort facwedding gowns, brides-to-be may feel tor. • Get sized correctly. Bridal gown pressured to downplay any discomfort sizes do not coincide with street sizes. they feel. To make sure brides look flawless Depending on the manufacturer, and elegant but are still comfortable in brides may have to select gowns that are several sizes their wedding gowns, consider “And love is love is love is love is larger than they would normally the following love is love is love is love, cannot be wear. This tips. • Know what to killed or swept aside. … Now fill the should not be a cause for alarm. highlight and world with music, love, and pride.” — LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA Brides should what to cover up. go by their No two body types are the same, and many women measurements. Attempting to squeeze feel certain parts of their bodies are into a dress that is too small will only their best assets while they want to lead to discomfort on the wedding downplay others. Try on gowns that day. • Purchase the right undergarments. play up your best features. If you have
The dress
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Improperly fitting bras, shapewear and other undergarments can lead to discomfort as well. Some seamstresses can sew in supportive cups to remove the need for separate bras. Brides can explore various options to reduce the visibility of certain accoutrements. • Move around in the gown. Brides should not just stand in front of the mirror and smile when trying on gowns. Put them through their paces. Try sitting, bending and even a little dancing. Make sure the dress is comfortable to move around in. • Try different options. The gown brides have in mind may not be the one they ultimately go home with. Explore different styles and materials. Choose cooler, breezier fabrics and lightweight gowns, like crêpe, georgette or organza, for summer weddings. Heavier fabrics, such as brocade, may be more comfortable in the winter. Wedding gowns can be both beautiful and comfortable for those who know how to shop. — Metro
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Casual weddings
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Look for eclectic fabrics to use as gift tags or napkin holders. Handpainted signs or a hodge-podge of picture frames can display pertinent information, such as itineraries or seating arrangements. Encourage friends or family to contribute a favorite menu item to the food offerings. A home-baked dessert can be delicious and budget-friendly. WARDROBE Clothing often indicates the formality of an occasion. Everyone from the wedding party to the guests can dress down. Sundresses can replace taffeta bridesmaids’ gowns. Guys can opt for tailored sports coats with jeans. Guests may feel comfortable in less formal attire that facilitates dancing and mingling. Casual weddings are becoming more popular as many couples are playing down the party for various reasons. — Metro
Maybe it’s Megaleen Makeup Artistry & Esthetics Professional Makeup, Certified Eyelash Extension Specialist, Customized Waxing and Brow Tinting • Photo Ready HD Product • Facials • Travel to Event Location • Hourly for on Location •Touch Ups • Engagement Photos • Rehearsal Dinner • Bride “Travel fee will be added to final totals for travel of more than 30 miles outside of Cottage Grove, OR”
• Maid of Honor • Bridesmaids • Groom • Groomsmen • Mothers • Flower Girls 10 Years and Younger are FREE • Special Occasions
541- 623- 0133
Megan Sayre, Licensed Esthetician License # COS-FT- 10178694
Wednesday, January 25, 2017 • Wedding Guide
Find creative, experienced florists at Flower Basket of Cottage Grove ook for a florist with quality prod- ily accessible and they should be open ucts and good selection. The at convenient hours. A great florist will have years of expeflowers should be fresh, the colors of the flowers should be rich and the rience and many returning customers. plants should look healthy. A florist It’s really great to find an exceptional with a larger stock of flowers rotates florist that you can always come back to their flowers more often to keep fresher whenever the occasion calls for it. A florist that hits products on hand. all these marks is A good florist is “After all this time?” The Flower Basket also somebody “Always.” highly creative. — J.K. ROWLING, “HARRY POTTER and Gift Boutique. AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS” It has been in busiTheir artistic exness since 1984 and pression should show through the shop. Aside from cre- would like to be your florist in the ativity, a good florist also knows how to Cottage Grove area. They have a design staff with more establish a relationship with you, the customer. Your personal florists may be than 75 years of experience to create involved in many significant times in just the right arrangements for any of your life such as weddings, proms, your upcoming occasions. The friendly births and deaths. When you establish staff would like to welcome you into the this type of relationship, they will be store and help you with all of your floral and gift needs. able to help you with good advice. Call 541-942-0505 or visit 119 S. The florist must have their establishment at a location that is clean and eas- Sixth St. for more information.
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Luxury transportation with My Party Bus y Party Bus is a leading party bus limo service in Eugene, Ore., and is committed to offering unique transportation at the best possible price. Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life and we want to make it a memorable one. If you are looking for luxury transportation that is on time, professional and courteous, then look no further than My Party Bus. Whether you need a single ride to the ceremony or reception, all-day service for you and your wedding party or transportation to your local honeymoon destination, we are here to take care of all your needs. Let My Party Bus take the worry out of your wedding day. We have a unique 20-passenger limo style party bus and access to an 8-passenger limo, as well as other larger party buses to get all those guests from their hotel to the venue safely.
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If you are planning a bachelor/bachelorette party with a winery, brewery or restaurant tour or want to include the family as a reunion, depend on our luxury limo party bus to get you there in class, style and comfort. We provide a safe, certified and sober driver. You can bring your own drinks, snacks and music to play on our state of the art stereo system. We provide ice, bottled water, wine and beer openers, cups and wine glasses. With door to door convenience we can pick up and drop off most places and the sound system with safety pole is guaranteed to get everyone out of their seat and dancing around! Check us out online at www. my-partybus.net, www.Facebook.com/ MyPartyBusLimo or on Instagram at mypartybus. For more information, call 541-5547979 or email sean@my-partybus.net.
You are One-Of-A-Kind... Shouldn’t your wedding ring be One-Of-A-Kind? Professional Wedding Services
Custom Design/Fabrication Remount Family Diamonds
Including DJ, Photo Booth, Officiant & Custom Event Planning
541-953-6222 rppdj@outlook.com www.rppdj.com
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Designer/Goldsmith on-site Quality, unique selection in the showroom L MALLRY Fine Estate & JEWE Vintage Jewelry
Coast Jewelers 1220 Bay Street, #100 Florence, OR 97439
541-997-7676
10 Wedding
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Guide • Wednesday, January 25, 2017
TIPS FOR CHOOSING A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
ost of your wedding day will be a blur — the cake, the flowers, the music, the food and drink — but the photographs will capture those lost or missed moments and live on forever. You owe it to yourself to do everything you can to make them fabulous. Here’s a guide how to not only find your perfect photographer, but how to work with them. 1. Ground Work — Start Early About a year before your wedding date, start your search by looking for photographers in the area of your wedding venue. Search on-line or ask for referrals from your wedding venue. Make phone calls to the ones you find to see if they are available for your date and are within your budget. Ask for their website to view galleries of weddings they have done so you can get a sense of their quality and style. 2. What Do You Want As you review photographers and their photos, make note of key moments you want captured at your own wedding: Did this Photographer get great images that you like? Look for creative compositions and that the images and people are in focus with nicely blurred backgrounds. Make sure people look relaxed, and not startled by the camera or photographer. 3. Meet Your Photographer You can’t pick a photographer based on just their sample photos or the price, you have to meet them. Once you have found some photographers whose work you like, try to set up an in-person meeting. You need to feel comfortable with your photographer because they’ll be capturing your every move on your wedding day. You need to like your photographer’s personality in order for them to do their best job. 4. Compare Photographer Packages Packages should be spelled out exactly to what the photographer is offering, plus any additional fees that could be added. Consider: how many hours of shooting are included? What exactly do I get? Albums, Books, Photo CD’s? Most packages include about four to eight hours and include everything from pre-ceremony getting ready to the live event, to cake and toast, to
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garter and bouquet, to first dance and you and the photographer a chance to least a few shots of the two of you finally until the end of the reception interact and give each other feedback. together. This is the time when your and party. It’s better to err with a packhair and makeup are perfect. Your 9. Allow Extra Time in Schedule age that allows more time than you On your special day, everything will clothing is fresh and clean. Fewer think you need. Pay for more coverage, take longer than you think. Figure out a guests have arrived. It’s a perfect time especially if you’re planning a big send timeline and then allow 15 extra min- for photos. off exit. 11. Be Aware of the Photographer utes than you figured! Do this for 5. Book your Photographer Look at the camera, be aware where things like getting your hair done, getSince every professional photogra- ting dressed, the toast and cake cutting, it is. Smile, Smile, Smile. pher has a different style, technique the garter and bouquet toss and the Look into each others eyes while and personality, you need to make sure group photos. reading vows. Don’t hide your emothe photographer you interviewed and Allowing for more time will allevi- tions. Laugh, enjoy and be happy. “got on good with" will be the same ate any mishaps that might happen. Don’t sweat the small stuff, like a one who photographs your wedding. From misplaced wedding rings to reschedule of your engagement shoot The really good photographers book grandma hasn’t arrived yet all take because of rain or your bridesmaid weddings eight to extra time. Make a melting down during the toast, or famtwelve months in “I do love nothing in the world so schedule that ily members playing hard to get during advance. Popular well as you.” leaves extra time the group shots. spring and summer Allow your photographer to help deal with — WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE, to “MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING” mishaps. This will keep you on schedule and to corral dates fill up quickly. Book your phoallow you to your family members. tographer as soon as you have chosen choose a package that has enough time Allow them to pick the locations, one. Booking usually requires a non for you and the photographer. frame the shots and to know what will refundable deposit to guarantee your look best. That’s why you hired them. 10. Plan Your “First Look” date. The rest of the payment is usually Plan your “First Look” shoot before — Submitted by Curt Peters of Digital required on or before the actual shoot the ceremony. Be sure to plan on at Dunes Photography day. 6. Ask For and Check References Online reviews are great, and that should be part of your research, but once you’ve narrowed it down to a few photographers, ask to speak to a previous client or two. If you are able to speak with other previous clients, be sure to ask what they thought of the experience — from beginning to end. Ask if they were happy with the results of the photographs and any other products supplied. 7. Get It In Writing Once you’ve chosen your photograWE CATER REHEARSAL DINNERS AND WEDDING RECEPTIONS! pher, get in writing everything included — from the date of the wedding and the times they’ll cover, to postproduction work and how and when you’ll receive the final products. 8. Schedule an Engagement Shoot Once you hire a photographer, schedule an engagement shoot. This is an opportunity to get comfortable with your photographer while having your 78215 Cedar Park Rd • Cottage Grove, Or picture taken. This photo can be used for “Save the Date” announcements or Judd & Sharon Van Gorder invitations. It can be used on-line for social media. It can be enlarged and printed and matted for guests to sign the mat at the reception. It gives both
The Carousel House Catering Bed & Breakfast
Park with us, and let us take care of you for the wedding!
Simple Elegance Legendary Breakfasts Down Home Hospitality
(541) 942-0046
Wednesday, January 25, 2017 • Wedding Guide
udd and Sharon spent a great
J deal of thought when they
designed the Carousel House. They created two non-smoking suites rather than more, because they know that maintaining comfort can become lost in larger establishments. Suite comfort will be enjoyed at the Carousel House. Your suite was designed with your comfort in mind. Each suite features queen-sized beds, extraordinary comforts, private baths, phones, plush armchairs plus a TV and VCR for your enjoyment. You will enjoy the beautiful views. Carousel House also caters. Any occasion catering is our specialty. Simply give us a call, and we’ll take care of all your needs. From simple to extravagant, Judd and Sharon will give you the best.
Chateau Lorane allows your imagination to flourish icture your day: sunlit waters, a light breeze, walks among gardens, glasses of wine and vinefilled trellises. All the elements are at Chateau Lorane. Bring us your imagination. We’ll help you turn it into reality. Our 200-acre wooded estate with a 24-acre lake is unsurpassed in natural beauty. Lakeside wedding facilities are quiet, elegant and private, accommodating up to 300 people. Family owned and operated, Chateau Lorane is flexible and attentive. We remember the details. All you remember is your perfect day.
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It is their extreme pleasure to welcome you to their home. They take special care in making sure you enjoy your stay at the Carousel House and look forward to meeting you. For more information, visit at 78215 Cedar Park Road in Cottage Grove, call 541-942-0046 or go to www.carousel-house.com.
T h e estate is located 25 miles southwest of Eugene at 27415 Siuslaw River Road in Lorane, Ore. Feel free to ask questions and call 541-942-8028 for an appointment to see our facility and winery. Call 541344-3663 for special events.
davesplacesalon.com 704 E. Whiteaker • 541-942-4353 Cottage Grove, OR 97424
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
Carousel House offers suite comfort, brilliant views
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12 Wedding
Guide • Wednesday, January 25, 2017
Florence Events Center Z Weddings | Parties | Corporate Events Simply Exceptional
Weddings
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Photo by: Tyler Romer Photo by: Tyler Romer
Photo by: Tyler Romer
Always Something Happening 541.997.1994 | 888.968.4086 AVAILABLE FOR:
CONFERENCES • MEETINGS • FESTIVALS • BANQUETS WEDDINGS & RECEPTIONS 715 QUINCE STREET | FLORENCE, OR 97439 |
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21,000 SQ.FT. FACILITY WITH STATE OF THE ART THEATER
THE PERFECT PLACE FOR WEDDINGS & RECEPTIONS EQUIPMENT RENTAL FOR TABLES, CHAIRS, DANCE FLOOR, LINENS & TECHINICAL EQUIPMENT.