Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016

Weddings

PERFECT SOUTHWEST

2016-17

Las Cruces Bulletin

Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17 • 1

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Las Cruces Bulletin

Contents

Balancing tradition and fun.................. 4 Themed weddings................................ 6 New Mexico weddings.......................... 7 Quinceañeras are milestones............... 8 Catering choices................................. 10 Blooms on a budget............................ 12

advertiser index

Barbs Flowerland, 5 Cravings Café, 15 Deliciously Creative Cakes, 17 Doña Ana County Clerk, 22 Double Eagle Restaurant, 22 Flowerama, 13 Heart of the Desert, 18 Hotel Mesilla, 3

Keep stress at bay................................ 13 Wedding planning timeline................ 14 Choosing a gown................................. 16 Tunes add personal touch.................. 18 A reception to remember................... 20 Memories in motion: videography..... 21 How to get a license............................ 22 How to change your name.................. 23 Thank you notes.................................. 24 Gifting attendants ............................... 25 Enchanted honeymoons..................... 26

La Posta, 9 Las Cruces Association of Realtors, 9 Las Cruces Convention Center, 11 Las Cruces Shuttle, 2 Mendez Jewelers, 7 New Mexico State University, 28

Ositos, 25 Picture Frame Factory Outlet, 17 Ramada Inn, 19 Renee’s Bridal, 16 Rio Grande Vineyard & Winery, 14 Sanctuary on the River, 27 White Sands, 8

COVER PHOTO BY TAYLOR’D PHOTOGRAPHY

Ryan and Melissa Foullon married in September 2015 at Meson de Mesilla, 1891 Avenida de Mesilla.

They met in Las Cruces while attending graduate school at New Mexico State University.

PUBLISHER Richard Coltharp EDITOR Tracy Roy EDITORIAL Brook Stockberger, managing editor Christophe Chino Cassie McClure Elva Österreich Ann Palormo Bonnie Schranz DESIGNERS Cary Howard Eddie Hodges Ryan Galloway Leigh Mitchell PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Gruber Taylor’d Photography A D V E R T I S I N G Melissa Atencio Claire Frohs Pam Rossi Elaine Sasnow ADVERTISING A S S I S TA N T S Jacqueline Bustamante Jamie Pfannenstiel DISTRIBUTION Teresa Tolonen

Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17 is a copyrighted special edition of the Las Cruces Bulletin, designed and published by OPC News, LLC, 840 N. Telshor Blvd., Suite E, Las Cruces, NM 88011.

Inquiries regarding editorial or advertising content may be directed to 575-524-8061. © Copyright 2016, Las Cruces Bulletin

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Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17 • 3

Balancing

TAY LOR’ D P HOTOG RAP HY AND VI DEOG RAP HY

TRADITION AND FUN

WEDDINGS IN 2016 TAKE ON A LIFE OF THEIR OWN

BY CHR I STO P H E CHINO

When it comes to modern-day weddings, it’s all about the balance between traditional and unique personalization. Some couples struggle to find a balance between the two, but the good news is you don’t necessarily have to choose. Wedding ceremonies and receptions can be as unique as the couple and still retain elements of longstanding tradition.

Roxanne Kidd, owner of Elegant Events & Invitations, LLC as well as Renee’s Bridal in Las Cruces said many couples are looking to add entertainment to their wedding events, but also want to honor tradition at the ceremony.

One way to include both traditional and unique elements is to separate the two: keep a traditional ceremony with a themed reception.

4 • Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17

“The couple is able to maintain the traditional aspect of the wedding while also letting the afterparty take a life of its own,” Kidd said. “By doing this, a wedding can really become alive and entertaining for the guests.”

Many couples struggle to strike a balance between professional and fun in their weddings, so that duality can be a solution, Kidd said.

She laid out several examples of reception themes that she has helped set up in the past, all of which she said have been extremely successful.

“Many themes can depend on the time of year, like Halloween or Hawaiian,” Kidd said. “We have done a masquerade party that was really fun. We also have done a Moroccan-themed reception, with snake charmers — the whole 10 yards.”

Personalization can be a large consideration Las Cruces Bulletin

for many couples as their wedding day approaches.

“Each couple wants to be able to add something different and special for their wedding day,” Kidd said. “And there are many different ways that can be done.”

Color coordination was a huge hit in 2015 weddings, she said. Some couples will pick a color combination matching both the favorite colors of the bride and groom, or a color combination that they feel will draw in the guests. The possibilities are vast when it comes to color-coordinated weddings.

Another huge trend in 2015, especially in the Southwest, was a rustic-themed wedding, which allows for country dress, either in the ceremony, reception or both.

“I believe that all of these trends will continue to gain momentum in 2016,” Kidd said. “But I believe this to be especially so for these unique reception ideas that have been coming in.”

No matter if it’s an all-out themed wedding, a traditional wedding with a twist, or a wedding with a cultural setting, each couple’s goal will always be to make the day the most memorable as possible. ❤ TAY LOR’ D P HOTOG RAP HY AND VI DEOG RAP HY

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TAY LOR’ D P HOTOG RAP HY AND VI DEOG RAP HY

POSSIBILTIES

IS A THEMED WEDDING FOR YOU?

BY CHRISTOPHE CHINO

RUSTIC WEDDING Firmly located in the Southwest region of the United States, Las Cruces is home to many Western-themed weddings. Hay bales and cowboy boots, boot-shaped glasses and burlap table cloths, horse and carriage — the possibilities are endless for this classic theme. The wedding ceremony can be held in a decorated barn, or it can be held in a church out in the country, with the reception in the barn. This theme can be subtle or showy and there’s plenty of room for personalization.

BEACH WEDDING Whether held on the beautiful beaches of Hawaii or in the bride’s parents’ backyard, there are so many ways to have fun with a beach-themed wedding. Flowers and tiki torches can easily set the mood, and with white-andblue decorations combined with light-colored dress for both the couple and the guests, the beach-themed wedding can be laid back and affordable. This theme begs for an outdoor setting, so weather and season will be a factor when planning this type of wedding.

RENAISSANCE This theme calls for guests to take part. With scrolls, crests and jesters, this theme conjures an era of knights in shining armor, royalty and peasant life. Creativity abounds and possibilities are endless. There are several colors that would work well for this theme: royal blue, green, burgundy, purple, red, gold and silver. The bride 6 • Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17

can wear a floral coronet around her head, with the groom in his royal best. There were so many marriage traditions in practice during this time period, don’t be scared to incorporate one or two of these traditions in your wedding.

TRAVEL-THEMED WEDDING Do the bride and groom share a love of travel, or maybe just a love of maps? Give this theme a look. Airmail themed stationary for the wedding invitations will raise a guest’s eyebrow in anticipation. Props will be the deciding factor for how far you want to take this theme — globes, maps, planes, postcards, compasses, luggage.

The guests’ gifts can center around the theme as well — paper planes, passport covers, tote bags, for example.

The wedding or reception can be held in a hangar or on a runway; the possibilities are endless when it comes to the love of travel.

FOR THE LOVE OF SPORTS You’ve already fallen in love with someone who loves sports just as much as you do. Now it’s time to show everyone. Jerseys for the bride and groom, or every guest, could be worn. The wedding could be held on a football field, or a traditional wedding could be followed with a reception on the field. A mutual love of golf?

Have a ceremony on your favorite golf course. Guests will want to feel your love of sports, so gift them with various items from your favorite sport — personalized balls, bats and racquets, for example. How big or small you go with this theme is up to you. ❤ Las Cruces Bulletin

TAY LO R’D PH OTO G R APHY A ND V IDE O GRA PHY

Weddings

NEW MEXICO

VENUES OFFER UP A BACKDROP OF BEAUTY

BY E LVA K . Ö ST E RRE ICH Among the mountains and valleys of southern New Mexico are secrets awaiting those looking for the perfect wedding experience.

A haunted lodge, a soak in mineral waters, a natural healing haven and a hidden corner of the world all can be found right here, close to home, as venues for affordable but luxurious wedding experiences.

And, if comfortable settings in the land of beauty aren’t quite the right thing, natural places abound where tying the knot can be exciting and adventurous.

“Southern New Mexico has wonderful weather,” Black Range Lodge owner Catherine Wanek said.

“You can anticipate sunny, pleasant days anywhere in southern New Mexico.”

At the Lodge in Cloudcroft weddings are a specialty. With facilities of all sizes to accommodate anything from hundreds of guests to an intimate few both inside and out including a garden gazebo and two pavilion halls, the Lodge welcomes weddings with wide open arms. Even if those arms are sometimes those of the infamous Rebecca, a ghost who reportedly can sometimes be heard, the Lodge is a comfortable place to wed and stay.

For a different amazing mountain experience, Sanctuary on the River in Ruidoso is designed as a wedding venue. An open-air pavilion on the bank of Rio Ruidoso allows for the fresh mountain scents and sounds to backdrop events of all sizes. The Sanctuary offers wedding planning, hosting and facilitation services. Holistic services include massage, salon and facial experiences on site.

Winding into the hill country of the Black Range, just south of the town of Hillsboro in Sierra County, the Black Range Lodge nestles into the tiny historical mining town of Kingston, New Mexico, which is next to the Gila National Forest. Billed as Las Cruces Bulletin

a bed and breakfast and retreat center, this lodge is a meticulously rebuilt historic building with a cozy space for weddings.

Weddings are special to Wanek. Facilities include the lodge and a house across the street with six bedrooms “perfect for the families of the couple,” she said, and the “guest house,” which gives the couple their own house as the bridal suite.

“The weather in Kingston is beautiful year-round,” ❤ Continued on page 24

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t o Remember A BIRTHDAY

QUINCEAÑERAS MARK A GIRL’S JOURNEY INTO WOMANHOOD

BY AN N PALORMO

P H OTO S BY M I C H AEL G RUGE R

8 • Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17

A quinceañera is a special 15th birthday celebration.

This event grew out of traditions brought to this country by immigrants from Mexico, Puerto Rico and Latin American countries. It marks the Quince’s transition from girlhood to maturity.

The celebration traditionally begins with a religious ceremony. A reception follows in the home or a banquet hall. The festivities include food and music, and in most cases, a choreographed waltz or dance

Las Cruces Bulletin

performed by the honoree and her court.

Roxanne Kidd, owner of Renee’s Bridal and Elegant Events and Invitations LLC in Las Cruces, may see between 10 and 15 girls a month who are beginning to plan their quinceaùera celebrations. Themes play a big part in the planning and dress selection.

Candyland, Disney princesses, pastel shades of rainbow colors are currently all very popular. The vendors she works with may introduce as many as 60 new styles of dresses every six months. “These are very big parties,� Kidd said. “Often there are 200 or more people attending the reception.�

It is traditional for the Quince to choose special friends, sisters, brothers and cousins to participate in her Court of Honor. The honoree traditionally wears a ball gown (often white) with her court dressed in color coordinated gowns and tuxedos. The Court of Honor spends several weeks practicing the presentation ceremony and special dance that will highlight the evening.

A popular tradition in the celebration is the Changing of the Shoes. The father or favored male relative ceremoniously changes the young girl’s flat shoes to high heels. This is a beautiful symbol of the Quinceaùera’s transformation from a little girl to a young lady.

At the church ceremony, a special Kneeling Pillow, sometimes personalized with the Quinceaùera’s name, is placed in position for the young girl to kneel on during the ceremony. And, a touch of elegance

Celebrate at Our Place

is added with smaller decorated pillows for the presentation of the Quinceaùera’s ceremony gifts, such as the tiara, the scepter and the shoes.

At the reception, there is always the toast to the QuinceaĂąera, known as the brindis. With decorated champagne glasses, the guests are invited to offer their congratulations and best wishes.

The Last Doll is used in the ceremony as decoration and keepsake. The Quinceaùera doll represents the last things of a child now that the Quince will focus on the things of a young lady. In some Hispanic cultures, the cåpias (printed ribbons with the Quinceaùera’s name and date) are pinned to the doll, and the Quinceaùera circulates among her guests, thanking them for their presence and presenting them with a cåpia memento taken from the doll. To symbolize leaving childhood things behind, the Quinceaùera passes on her Last Doll to a younger sister. �

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Eat,

TAY LOR’ D P HOTOG RAP HY AND VI DEOG RAP HY

DRINK AND BE MARRIED

THERE ARE CATERING CHOICES TO FIT ALL TYPES OF RECEPTIONS

BY BONNIE SCHRANZ The music plays, the vows are spoken. Tradition says the couple’s family and friends will then celebrate the new union with a wedding feast. Planning food for the reception is a must-do once the wedding venue and number of invited guests are decided.

Wedding caterer Marci Dickerson, now in her 17th year at the helm of Dickerson’s Catering, explains that catered wedding receptions fall into three categories, and planning for each is different. Some are held at commercial locations with exclusive in-house catering provided by their own food and serving staffs. An advantage is that supplies and equipment for smoothly timed service are available onsite. An event manager can help with arrangements for music and decorating, as well as licensed alcoholic beverage service. It’s prudent to book the venue well in advance of the wedding date.

Dickerson’s Catering’s exclusive contracts include the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Museum, Columbus Conference Center, NMSU Golf Club House, Alameda House and the Holiday Inn Express, but it also caters to off-site venues. Dickerson’s menu specialties include green chile mashed potatoes and pecan-encrusted green chile strips.

Many banquet facilities are open to a variety of catering businesses. Couples should choose a caterer capable of smooth delivery to the location, keeping food hot or cold as required and bringing everything else needed, including table service. Also check for licensure to serve alcoholic beverages or to offer a cash bar for your guests, to ensure it meets New Mexico state codes.

A third popular category includes receptions held at churches, private homes or various outdoor locations.

10 • Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17

A caterer may need a special delivery vehicle to keep food refrigerated or hot, ready to be served at just the right moment. Alcohol can be served, but not sold, to guests at a private location.

Roberto Estrada, owner of the popular Roberto’s restaurant, said it caters primarily to small wedding receptions, offering its full menu as a Mexican buffet — enchiladas, tacos, rice, beans, dips and tostadas — every day of the week except Sundays.

“I don’t promise what I can’t deliver,” said Estrada, who has run the restaurant for 27 years.

Couples working within a budget can either hire delivery and servers from Roberto’s, or pick up food for their event. Estrada advises to place orders at least two weeks in advance. Roberto’s doesn’t provide beverages but can supply disposable table service.

“Many couples spend as much as half of their total wedding budget on their reception,” Dickerson said.

“Choices should be made carefully. Consider serving options and taste test. Many selections and services are negotiable. Price shop, but don’t always go with the cheapest. An experienced caterer can offer advice that saves both time and money.”

She said couples can get good suggestions for caterers and other related services from managers of facilities where receptions are held, as well as reviews from friends who have held or attended catered events.

“Personal references are always best,” she said. “No reception is too big or too small. The focus must be on creating the perfect event to meet expectations of the bride and groom on this important day.”

To learn more, visit www.dickersongrouplc.com or www.robertosmexicanfoods.com. ❤ Las Cruces Bulletin

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Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17 • 11

Blooms

ON A BUDGET

ARRANGEMENTS ACCENTUATE BEAUTY OF THE OCCASION

BY BONNIE SCHRANZ

Loretta Anderson of family-owned Flowerama has spent more than 30 years designing bridal bouquets and wedding floral arrangements. Likewise, designer Marie Huffmyer of Friendly Flowers and Tuxedos, a business inherited from her mother Estelle Vipond, loves helping brides select perfect flowers for the special day. Both have experience with weddings of all sizes and offer excellent advice for brides selecting flowers while staying within a budget.

Huffmyer suggests three to six months ahead of the wedding date is a good time to have a consultation with a florist to plan flowers for the event. Anything less can be more difficult, depending on what type of flowers are chosen.

“Start with the flowers and colors of the bridal bouquet,” Anderson said, “then selections for other members of the wedding party and any additional flowers for the event.”

She advises brides to visit online wedding planning websites, but not be overly influenced, because they may show flowers that are out of season, very expensive, or just unavailable.

“Don’t get stuck on a color — be flexible,” Huffmyer said. “Some color schemes are easy to match, but others, including a number of blues, are harder. If a bride is open to a variety of colors, sometimes mixed together in her bouquet, she might be delightfully surprised at the contrast and beauty of the total effect.”

Some flower choices are traditional, others reflect newer trends. In the traditional category, brides want to carry something “old” or “borrowed,” and a family member’s keepsake broche or ribbon may be included in her bouquet. A newer economical trend finds both brides’ and attendants’ bouquets of fresh flowers with stems left unwrapped for later placement in a vase at the reception. Another contemporary trend is for brides to have two bouquets — one to carry at the wedding and keep, and another to “toss” at the reception.

Both florists say that roses and carnations are beautiful flowers that are popular, economical and 12 • Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17

almost always available. But don’t opt for too many roses during February or May when high demand on Valentines Day and Mothers Day make them more expensive. Request tulips for winter weddings, but not in July when they are out of season. Choosing silk flowers, or adding a few to a fresh bouquet, is also an economical option.

It’s possible to save money on delivery charges by transporting flowers yourself if the order is small. But large orders should be professionally delivered to keep blooms fresh, especially white flowers that bruise easily.

Bringing homegrown flowers to a florist to arrange to save money is not an option. Flowers arranged by a florist must be guaranteed bug and disease-free, with a stamp of approval from the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture.

Look for monthly specials at Flowerama, www. f loweramaof lascruces.com.

Friendly Flowers & Tuxedos, www. friendlyflowerslascruces.com, gives a discount on flowers purchased together with a tux rental order, Huffmyer said. ❤ FLOWER SYMBOLISM

• RED: Passion and desire, beauty and courage. Think red roses, carnations, tulips, red protea, peonies.

• WHITE: Modesty and elegance, humility, reverence, and pure beauty. Think white roses, gardenias, lilies, baby’s breath, chrysanthemums.

• LAVENDER: Femininity, refinement, grace. Think waxflower, statice, snapdragons.

• BLUE: Peace, calm, serenity. Think blue hydrangea, delphinium, iris, larkspur, blue stock.

• PINK: Happiness, gentility, grace. Think pick rosebuds, long-stemmed roses, camellia, carnations, alstroemeria, blushing lilies, tulips, pink stargazer lilies.

• YELLOW: Happiness, joyful new beginnings. Think yellow roses, daffodils, chrysanthemums, lilies, gerbera daisies, alstroemeria, cymbidium orchids, tulips.

• PURPLE: Royalty and dignity. Think purple alstroemeria, violets, purple carnations and tulips.

• ORANGE: Passion and confidence. Think orange Asiatic lilies, gerbera daisies, carnations, rust chrysanthemums, fiery lilies, birds of paradise.

• GREEN: Nature, optimism, renewal, and can compliment every other bloom. Think green carnations, button spray chrysanthemums, green viburnum, cybidium orchids, and assorted greens.

Las Cruces Bulletin

Wedding

TIPS TO KEEP STRESS AT BAY • Have support: Be it a close friend or good ol’ mom, have someone you can confide in when the stress starts to build. A support person can help you sort through priorities and stay focused on matters at hand.

• Take a break: Sometimes, you just have to put down the legal pad and calculator. Close Pinterest.

Ignore the wedding newsletters crowding your inbox.

Step away, spend time doing something else and return to planning refreshed when you’re ready.

• Stay connected: Under the pressure of wedding planning, it’s easy to lose touch with the person whom the event celebrates. Schedule date nights and make time for plenty of non-wedding-planning quality time with your soon-to-be spouse.

TAY LOR’ D P HOTOG RAP HY AND VI DEOG RAP HY

PLANNING

• Take care of your body: Drink plenty of water.

Schedule time for exercise. Meditate to calm your mind.

Eat well. All of the self-care will help keep you calm.

Bonus: you’ll look great on your wedding day!

• Journal: Write down your thoughts and feelings in a journal. It’s an easy way to vent emotion, and clear your head to get back into the swing of planning.

• Don’t be afraid to delegate: You can’t handle it all by yourself. Lean on friends and family to help with tasks. Chances are, they’ll be delighted to participate.

• Pamper yourself: Get a massage, facial or pedicure. Soak your feet and do a face mask while you Netflix and chill. ❤

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Las Cruces Bulletin

Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17 • 13

HOW TO MANAGE YOUR TIME Two years to 12 months before the wedding ☐ Set a date ☐ Determine budget and discuss ☐ Shop for and choose ceremony, reception locations ☐ Determine need for a planning professional Twelve to nine months before the wedding ☐ Select wedding attendants/officiant ☐ Determine wedding colors and themes ☐ Shop for and choose wedding dress and accessories ☐ Shop for and choose bridal party attire ☐ Determine guest list ☐ Choose professional photographer, videographer, disc jockey, caterer, musicians and florist Six to nine months before the wedding ☐ Select flowers for bouquets, centerpieces, altar displays, corsages, etc. ☐ Reserve wedding day transportation ☐ Make honeymoon travel accommodations ☐ Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests ☐ Register for wedding gifts Four to six months before the wedding ☐ Select tuxedos for groom, groomsmen, fathers of bride and groom ☐ Select wedding cake

☐ Purchase rings ☐ Choose and order invitations, other printed materials ☐ Advise employers, schedule vacation time accordingly Two to four months before the wedding ☐ Select reception accessories ☐ Mail invitations two months in advance ☐ Purchase attendant gifts ☐ Write or select wedding vows and meet with officiant to review ceremony ☐ Make bar/beverage arrangements One month before the wedding ☐ Final fittings for all attire ☐ Confirm all reservations ☐M ake appointments for massages, hair, makeup and manicure/pedicure ☐O btain all legal documents, apply for marriage license One week before the wedding ☐ Confirm head count with catering hall ☐ Begin packing for wedding day and honeymoon Night before the wedding ☐ Rehearsal dinner ☐ Give out wedding attendant gifts ☐ Lay out wedding attire ☐ Get a good night’s sleep

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Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17 • 15

CHOOSING A

Wedding Gown THAT COMPLEMENTS YOUR BODY TYPE

TAYLOR’D PHOTOGRA PHY A ND V IDEOGRAP HY

Bridal gowns come in many styles, materials, colors, lengths and prices. Shopping for a dress that is suitable to the bride’s figure, budget and wedding style is not an easy task. Following are some dress styles, and how they mesh with various body types. Professionals at bridal shops

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Las Cruces Bulletin

are experts at helping women find that perfect fit. Be flexible and let them help you.

A-Line: A fitted bodice that flares out to the hem creating an A shape. This flatters women who are larger and want to hide their tummy.

Ball gown: A fitted top and a full skirt. This is ideal for women who want an elegant look and may want to hide below-thewaist problem areas.

Basque Waist: The waistline begins below the waist, forming a U or V shape. It’s slenderizing and a good choice for brides with wide hips.

Draped A-Line: Similar in design to the traditional A-Line, the draped version has layered folds along the skirt. It is not for women who are short or thick, but works well on thin or long-legged women.

Empire: Cropped body, high waist, slightly flared skirt; it’s generally not a good choice for brides who are large-busted.

Fit and flare: An hourglass style that highlights a trim waistline. It is good for women, tall and short, who have curves and want to show them off.

Mini-skirt: The hem is above the knee, and typically has a train either short or leg. Good choice for showing off legs.

Princess: A fitted top and a flared, vertically seamed skirt. This type is flattering for tall, slender women.

Shirtwaist: A woman’s blouse or bodice styled like a tailored shirt, a blouse with buttons down the front.

Slip dress: Also called sheath, this style features fabric that continues down the body from the shoulders to the ankles for a close-fitting look. This is a good choice for small or informal weddings, and it looks best on tall, trim women. ❤

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Las Cruces Bulletin

Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17 • 17

Music

TO YOUR EARS TUNES ADD A PERSONAL TOUCH TO YOUR SPECIAL DAY

BY ANN PALORMO AND ELVA K. ÖSTERREICH

TAY LO R’ D PH OTOG R APH Y A ND V IDEOGRA PHY

18 • Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17

When it comes to selecting music for your wedding and reception, the secret is to start early. As soon as you have set a date for this big event, you should begin planning to find just the right source to set the mood for the day. Six to nine months in advance allows time to explore your options, meet with deejay services or talk with area musicians.

Las Cruces Bulletin

“Music is a really personal thing,” said Kimberly Bashor of Las Cruces, who has been officiating weddings since 2004. “There are no rules anymore.

Some like classics and some like oldies. I’ve heard it all.”

Bashor said there are some websites like www. theknot.com or www.weddingwire.com that have lists of suggestions for music for specific parts of a wedding from the entrance of the bride to the mother/son dance at the reception. Bashor can be found at www. hitchinghearts.com.

If you are planning a ceremony in your family church, meet with the director of music and find out what the parameters are for choosing the music included in the service. There are generally five components in a traditional ceremony where music plays a key role: the 15-30 minute prelude while guests are arriving, the bridal party processional, within the ceremony itself, the recessional and the postlude as guests exit.

Within each of those sections there will be room for your favorite songs along with traditional music associated with weddings. Determining if you can enlist the services of a church musician or include a personal friend would be part of the discussion you have with the music director.

While you make preliminary arrangements for music, consider the acoustics of your venue. If your plans include a vocalist, will you need a microphone to enable the individual to be heard by all in attendance?

Don’t wait until the rehearsal to find out.

The overall budget will impact the kind of music you are able to include. Live musical groups are generally more expensive than a deejay since their cost will be determined by the size of the group and its reputation.

Each will have a minimum number of hours they will perform.

Mesilla Valley String Quartet brings a traditional classical flair to weddings with two violins, a viola and a cello.

“We do a lot of weddings, about 90 percent of what we do is weddings,” said quartet member Ellen Michnovicz. “We have been playing in town for a lot of years.”

But, she said, they are not tired of the work.

“We love it, it’s wonderful,” she said. “It’s kind of a treat, a lot of people don’t typically hear this kind of music and they like it.”

When you are vetting any musical group or deejay, you want to determine if their repertoire matches the music you know your guests want to hear or to which they can dance. Most have sample compilations they will share. Deejay services will work with the couple to put together a playlist that appeals to all ages. If you have special songs you want to hear, they try to include those as well.

When it all comes together, you and your guests will leave humming the songs that made the event one to remember for a long time to come. ❤

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201 E. University Ave, I-10 Exit 142 • Las Cruces, New Mexico 88005 575-526-4411 • www.RamadaLasCruces.com Las Cruces Bulletin

Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17 • 19

Reception

A

TAY LOR’ D P HOTOG RAP HY AND VI DEOG RAP HY

TO REMEMBER

PARTY IS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR CREATIVITY

BY ANN PALORMO AND ELVA K. ÖSTERREICH

Your wedding day is one of the most significant milestones in your life. From beginning to end, it should be a reflection of the couple who are joining their lives and a celebration with family and friends.

Advance planning can make all the difference. Fun doesn’t have to cost a fortune so the first step is to make a realistic budget and stick to it. When it comes to choosing a venue for your wedding reception, southern New Mexico has a wide assortment of options for any mood you want to create. Be yourselves and make sure that shows in your plans.

If the ceremony and the reception are being held in the same vicinity, a walk down memory lane lined with photographs of the bride and groom with family members and friends provides a wonderful transition and conversation starter as guests move from the ceremony to the receiving line with the new couple.

Even if the church ceremony and reception are at separate facilities, a photo display at the reception can serve as an icebreaker that helps guests feel welcome.

Another way to involve guests while they wait to greet the couple is a guest book with space for guests to record their first or favorite memory of time spent with one or both of the newlyweds. This becomes a keepsake the couple will treasure.

Las Cruces resident Kimberly Bashor has been officiating weddings since 2004 and works through her website at www.hitchinghearts.com. She has officiated at numerous weddings with themed receptions from a whimsical, hot-air balloon theme centered on the movie “Up” to a science fiction masterpiece from the 20 • Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17

book “Dune,” with wedding party members dressed as sand riders.

“Whether elegant and huge or sweet and tiny, they are all equally beautiful,” Bashor said. “Every single one is special and neat. You can do beautiful with a tight budget as well as with a monster budget. It’s all about good food, good friends and good drink and love.”

What kind of reception feels right for you? Light hors d’oeuvres, punch, and wedding cake immediately following the ceremony, a four-course dinner or something in between? Think of the people on your guest list (and your budget). Where will they (and you) be most comfortable?

If you are planning a spring or fall wedding, maybe an outdoor venue will give you space to offer choices for your guest — dinner under a tent, space to move around, perhaps a dessert buffet where guests can even decorate their own cupcakes or a campfire lounge area where guests can chat and even enjoy quiet acoustic music.

If you opt for a sit-down dinner, you can add to your guests’ comfort if you offer a children’s table, with qualified babysitters to eat with the children and even plan some games or other activities. The area that will later become the dance floor is a perfect space for youngsters to run around before the music starts.

Creative ideas abound on the Internet. Spend some time exploring these sources. Reflect upon weddings and receptions you attended and particularly enjoyed.

Think about the individuals on your guest list. What will make them want to stay until the couple leaves or even beyond if the music is still playing? Advance planning makes all the difference. Enjoy the process. ❤ Las Cruces Bulletin

Memories

TAY LOR’ D P HOTOG RAP HY AND VI DEOG RAP HY

IN MOTION

VIDEOGRAPHY CAPTURES EMOTION UNIQUE TO THE OCCASION

BY BONNIE SCHRANZ No longer limited to stiffly posed wedding photographs of the past, couples today can have an album of beautiful, creative still photographs and, additionally, an opportunity to revisit the action and sensations of the big day through professional-quality videography.

“Wedding videography can capture emotions that are very intense,” said Nathan Taylor, videographer of Taylor’d Photography and Videography. “It’s more important than anything playing in a movie theater.”

Isaac Palafox and Marco Olvera of Palamora Productions enjoy how wedding videography can capture very personal moments, like separate interviews with the bride and groom edited into the final production. Inevitably, these “reveal the depth of the love they have for each other,” Palafox said. “We haven’t done a single wedding video that hasn’t brought the bride to tears of joy.”

Taylor confesses that creating a wedding video is sentimental for him. One of his favorite parts of the production is introducing a narrative of how the couple met, fell in love and decided to marry.

“It’s all about telling a story. Our style is primarily cinematic, telling their love story in a compelling way, with some elements of documentary,” Taylor said.

Working as a team, photographer and videographer capture the preparation, wedding and reception, highlighting interactions between wedding party, family and guests. Many seeing the finished production are often surprised with views of tender moments they might not have realized were being filmed. Palafox recalls an emotional scene of a bride gifting her new husband with cufflinks showing the image of his deceased father. Taylor describes moments amazingly captured in video, a bride and groom dancing, Las Cruces Bulletin

surrounded by friends and family lifting sparklers into a stormy night sky. Another poignant moment caught on film, a father and daughter dance, the father singing to the bride, his eyes sparkling with tears.

Both Taylor’d and Palamora insist upon extensive planning leading up to the event and skillful editing afterward.

“As soon as a couple says they want us to be there on their wedding day, we give them all of ourselves,” Elise Taylor, owner of Taylor’d Photography and Videography, said. “We help them plan the day’s timeline, working toward the most photogenic wedding possible.”

She suggests engaging photography and videography services anywhere from six months to a year in advance, making availability more likely for a specific date.

“We have frequent contact in the months prior to the wedding. Building that relationship is a key, as the couple becomes part of our team,” Olvera said. “And every wedding is unique and important to us. We give our very best to each event, large or small, lavish or on a more conservative budget.”

Palamora’s video equipment is cutting edge, and both bride and groom have microphones, making the audio track as effective as the visual portion of the film.

“They have to be completely comfortable, with no worries on their wedding day,” Olveras said.

Is videography affordable?

“It’s probably considered a luxury service, but affordability is all in the eyes of the beholder,” Nathan Taylor said. “People make what they value a priority in their wedding budget, and for an increasing number, it’s a wedding video. We’re creating an heirloom, not only for the couple, but also for their descendants.”

Learn more about Palamora Productions at www.palamora.com and Taylor’d Photography and Videography at www.taylordphoto.com, or find them on Facebook. ❤ Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17 • 21

Marriage

HOW TO GET A

You might be dreaming of the dress or picking out the right colors to decorate your reception, but you might not be thinking of an important step: your marriage license. Below are steps to getting one. • Go to the Doùa Ana County Clerk’s office, 845 N. Motel Boulevard, or visit https://donaanacounty. org/clerk/marriage and fill out the Marriage Application Information Form. • You can get your license any time before your ceremony. Some areas require a period of time before the ceremony itself, such as El Paso where you need to wait 72 hours after you’ve purchased the license to perform the marriage ceremony. • Go with your form to the Clerk’s office, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and bring $25 in cash. No

Historic Charm.

Modern Elegance.

Surprisingly Affordable.

LICENSE

cards, no checks, no exceptions. • Anyone over the age of 18 must bring a government-issued picture ID to show proof of age and identity. Note: under the age of 18, different identification and parental consent applies. • Both applicants must appear in person.

If one party can’t be there in person, the authorization to issue the license must be provided by a district judge. • Your ceremony now must take place within New Mexico. The signed license must be returned to the County Clerk’s office with 90 days of the ceremony. � Compiled by Cassie McClure

Do your paperwork with the Clerk

Obtaining your marriage license is simple: • 18 years old and Older- must present a government issued picture ID • Under 18 years old- Call the County Clerk’s Office for requirements • $25 Cash fee

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22 • Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17

Doùa Ana County Clerk 845 North Motel Blvd • Las Cruces, NM 88005

(575) 647-7421

Lynn Ellins DoĂąa Ana County Clerk

Las Cruces Bulletin

STEPS TO

Change

You were that girl. You scribbled new name with the current boyfriend since middle school. Would you take his name? Would you hyphenate?

Would you be a Ms. instead? Or, you are a modern man, deciding that her last name sounds infinitely better with your first name. Here are the steps you’ll need to take: • Vist the US Social Security Administration office, 2141 Summit Court, and fill out an application for a name change. You’ll need a marriage license, proof of identity and proof of citizenship. You should receive your card within 10 business days. Alternatively, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/forms/ss-5. pdf, fill out the form, mail it along with the documents requested to prove your identity, and your new card will arrive, along with your returned documents.

• Next, go to the Department of Motor Vehicles for a new mugshot. Bring your marriage

TAYLOR’D PH OTO G R A PHY inY )your notebook A Ncombinations D V I D EO G R A PH

YOUR NAME

license and your new Social Security card. The fee is $18 for a four-year license and $34 for an eight-year license.

• Take some time to list all of your personal accounts, from Netflix and PayPal to a Dillard’s account and your local credit union account.

Follow each institutions procedure for changing a name. Often this includes mailing or faxing copies of your marriage certificate or other documents. At the bank, bring your driver’s license and marriage license and get new debit cards and checks.

Note: There may be fees associated with ordering new cards and checks.

• Lastly, remember to take time to update your will with your new name and new marriage status, making sure that if the worst happens, your spouse can now take care of you easily. ❤ Compiled by Cassie McClure

Stop by the Bulletin - or any of our singlecopy locations for your FREE Menu Guide.

View online for FREE at LasCrucesBulletin.com

575.524.8061 • Fax 575.526.4621 • 840 N. Telshor, Suite E, Las Cruces, NM 88011 Las Cruces Bulletin

Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17 • 23

TAYLO R’D PH OTO G R APHY A N D V I D EO G R APH Y

Thank You

DON’T FORGET

Thank you notes are a touch of class that sometimes falls by the wayside in our modern emailing times. But if you want to show true appreciation for people who took time to attend your wedding, a handwritten note is still the warmest way to show it.

• You’ll be busy. Task an attendant or a vigilant relative to hover over an area you’ve set aside for gifts. Have them make sure that all gifts are identified by person either by card, or by having your helper discretely write the gift-giver’s name on the outside.

• Get a pack of empty note cards and a new pen.

Have the cards say Thank You on the front, and maybe a short line on the inside, but leave room for a personal note from you. ❤ Continued from page 7 Wanek said. “There is a creek, lots of green trees and mountains. And we have an orchard where sometimes people like to get married in the spring with blossoms all around.”

The town of Truth or Consequences is a popular wedding destination because who doesn’t want to see the words, “Truth or Consequences” on their wedding certificate?

Celeste Rich, aka Reverend Celeste, has been officiating weddings since 2002 and moved to the T or C area in 2006. She said she once married a couple who flew to New Mexico from England to get married at White Sands National Monument. She has also done weddings on the water at Elephant Butte, at various hot springs spas and many other outdoor venues.

“The most popular location for couples who want their license to say Truth or Consequences on is it Ralph Edwards Park,” she said. “It’s right on the banks of the river and within city limits.”

Other popular places near but outside of T or C include Healing Waters Trail; Rotary Park, which is right next to the Rio Grande; and, one of Rich’s favorites, Winding Roads Day Use Area at Elephant Butte State Park dam site.

“The dam site area overlooks the lake, is grassy 24 • Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17

NOTES

• Now for the magic: reference their gift in your handwritten note. A vase? You’ll love the fresh flowers with which you’ll be able to liven up your new marital home. A bread machine? The fastest way to your spouse’s heart is through carbs and they’ve helped you do that. Explain that their gift has value to what they came to support — your marriage.

• Never fear the money gift. Tell them how it’ll help to spruce up a new shared bathroom. Explain that you failed to realize you’ll need new sheets. They are making a new home and a new start possible, and for that, you are grateful. ❤ Compiled by Cassie McClure

and has trees,” she said. “It’s probably the most popular site for locals.”

Also at Elephant Butte, she said, she has done weddings right on the Marina del Sur, at Longpoint and once on a rental houseboat with the couple in swimsuits. Rich can be found at her website newmexico-weddings.info and performs both traditional and not-so-traditional ceremonies like hand fasting, unity candle, ribbons of hopes and wishes, and Native American blanket rituals.

Rich’s email is havepodiumwilltravel@gmail.com and she has officiated in Carlsbad, Roswell, Ruidoso, Gila, City of Rocks, Las Cruces and El Paso.

Couples should always check into the rules when looking at getting married on public lands. Some have few extra guidelines, but others, like White Sands, can be quite stringent. For example, Rich said, at Elephant Butte State Park all participants need to do is pay the entrance fee. At White Sands the environment is more fragile and weddings require special permits, a $25 fee and rules to follow.

Wherever one goes in the southwestern part of the state, the variety and excitement of the area will infuse wedding plans with hope. Whether brilliant blue or black with millions of stars, New Mexico skies provide the perfect backdrop for those planning to spend their lives together. ❤ Las Cruces Bulletin

TIPS FOR GIFTING

Wedding

They’ve held their tongue when you decided to change their hairstyle in the wedding yet again and bought you wine when you didn’t fit into your dream wedding dress. They organized an epic (and never to be spoken of again) bachelor(ette) party. How do you thank people for all of their support? Give them wedding attendant gifts.

• The useful gift: One wine glass with their name, or your new Mr. and Mrs. Name, to be stashed in the back of their cabinets until a fateful yard sale comes? Don’t risk it; order a set of nice wine glasses they can reuse for years to come.

• The personal gift: Did your boisterous friend get

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The Original Mexican Wedding Cookie “If it’s a Diamond, It’s An Osito’s” (New Mexico State Cookie Since 1989)

Visit us at: www.biscochitos.net or www.newmexicocookie.com

TAY LOR’ D P HOTOG RAP HY AND VI DEOG RAP HY

ATTENDANTS

you behind the VIP lines at your bachelor party? Did your quiet friend keep track of the spending and get coupons for drinks online? Give one tickets to a beer tasting and an updated version of the best accounting software to the other. You know your friends best.

• Traditional with a twist gift: Instead of matching compact cases or flip flops, how about matching iPhone cases in your wedding colors? Instead of unhealthy cigars, how about a fitness monitor for their shoes? Consider tradition a guideline — not a rule. ❤ Compiled by Cassie McClure

Making memories last Mark your special life events in the Las Cruces Bulletin’s new Moments & Memories section.

Celebrate each of these occasions in your local newspaper: • Weddings • Engagement Announcements • Anniversaries • Birthdays • Birth Announcements • Any Special Occasion!

Moments & Memor Lordy, Lordy, look

ies

who’s 40!

Michael Baca was born Cruces, NM at Memorial September 27, 1973 in Las Medical Center and John Baca. to Betty Michael is local bank president, king Club and father of 4 beautiful children. of the Lion’s married to Samantha He has been Baca for 15 years. and New Mexico Michael is State Univeristy graduate bachelor degree in Business Administra with a tion and Finance.

A birthday party celebrating Michael at 11 am on Sept. will be held at Apodaca 27, 2013.

Park

Remembering Aunt Josie

It’s been 10 years since you left us, Aunt Josie. We miss your smile, your stories your biscochitos and .

Josephine McDonnel l beloved wife of Michael and dear mother of Marie, Renee and Jennifer; sadly missed by her loving husband, daughters, sister Gladys, sons-inlaw, grand-children, great-grandchildren, and friends.

Rest in Peace.

Welcome Jorge David

Garcia!

Jorge David Garcia was Center in Las Cruces, born September 12, 2013, at Memorial New Mexico. He Medical was 19 inches long. weighed 9 pounds, His parents are Joshua 12 ounces, and The grandparents and Cindy Garcia are Michael and of Las Cruces.

Josephine Garcia and Gary and June of Washington DC Smith of Las Cruces, ents are Virginia Johnson of AlamogordoNew Mexico. The great-grandparof El Paso, Texas.

His sister is Clementine, New Mexico and Barbara Smith Garcia.

Best Wishes

SMITH-GARCIA

Miss Josephine Marie Smith and Mr. Jacob September 21, 2013, Steven Garcia at half past four o’clock in the afternoonwere united in marriage on Las Cruces, New Mexico. The ceremony at First Baptist Church for the ceremony was officiated by in was provided by Main Street Orchestra. Reverend John Smith. Music seated dinner and reception at Hotel The bride’s parents Encanto. On the parents hosted a hosted a eve of the rehearsal Is aute consequ odicient dinner at La Posta in Mesilla, New wedding, the groom’s Mexico. re consedi piendit rerum dio. Nam unt asi culparunda quid eatqui quost, m, quo ma nem unt.

Ovitassit quo et quas et offictat as excestrum quate qui aut haribus esequo ipsande lendae molupta ectotaqui officae.

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in Moments & Memories.

With a variety of sizes and rates, the Bulletin can help everyone remember and celebrate their own special Moments & Memories in words and photos. Call 524-8061 today.

580 S. Valley Dr., Suite 200 Las Cruces, NM

575.644.4138 (Call in Advance, Store Hours Vary) Las Cruces Bulletin

840 N. Telshor Blvd., Suite E, Las Cruces, NM 88011 575.524.8061 | Fax: 575.526.4621 Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17 • 25

Enchanted

TAY LOR’ D P HOTOG RAP HY AND VI DEOG RAP HY

HONEYMOONS

NEW MEXICO OFFERS LUXURY, ADVENTURE FOR ALL TYPES OF COUPLES

BY CASSIE MCCLURE

Throughout New Mexico, there are different climates, varied landscapes and a touch of all seasons.

The nuptials have been set in stone and you’re off to celebrate. You won’t have to go far to bring a little TLC to your honeymoon in the Land of Enchantment.

North: Ghost Ranch Be alone with your love after the busy bustle of your nuptials at Ghost Ranch. About 15 minutes north of Abiqiu — which is about an hour north of Santa Fe — is the location that inspired artist Georgia O’Keeffe with its dramatic vistas. The rooms are sparse and WiFi and cell reception are spotty, so it’s a great location to unplug and unwind by hiking through the cliffs or sitting in the retreat’s library. Learn more: www. ghostranch.org.

West: El Malpais National Conservation Area If you want to go for even more rustic, go camping at the El Malpais National Conservation Area. About an hour and a half west of Albuquerque, El Malpais (“the badlands” in Spanish) has La Ventana Natural Arch, the Cian of the Crater Back Country Byway, and a the Narrows Picnic Area. Tribes including the Acoma, Laguna, Zuni and Ramah Navajo use the area to gather plants and keep their spiritual practices alive. Learn more: www.nps.gov/elma/index.htm South: Truth or Consequences Hot Springs Soak in some hot springs and melt the stress away before you tackle the world as a married power duo.

Truth or Consequences is located right on a hot springs aquifer which outputs hot water, with has special mineral content, to the surface. T or C is located near Elephant Butte, the largest body of water in New Mexico, where you can spend time after a mineral soak on a rented boat to fish, or just relax.

Some options for soaking are La Paloma Hot Springs 26 • Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17

and Spa and Blackstone Hot Springs. La Paloma Hot Springs has two locations. A half-hour soak is $6 per person and $10 per hour. It is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Blackstone Hot Springs offers luxurious themed suites with in-room soaking tubs, a kitchenette, private patio and other amenities. It also boasts a wet room, with a waterfall and steps and ledges to allow you to customize the depth of your soak. It is $25 per 50 minutes for one or two people, and one soak may be included in the price of the room for lodgers. It is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day.

Learn more: www.lapalomahotspringsandspa.com and www.blackstonehotsprings.com.

East: Carlsbad Caverns and the Trinity Hotel In the southwest region of the state lies Carlsbad Caverns, which lets you enjoy the best of both active and relaxed worlds. At the caverns, an elevator takes guests down to hike into the belly of the Earth. The Big Room is roughly the size of six football fields. A onemile self-guided tour shows you the highlights: the Bottomless Pit, the Giant Dome, the Rock of Ages and the Painted Grotto.

After your leisurely hand-in-hand stroll, head back to Carlsbad, about 25 minutes away and lodge at Trinity Hotel. The historic building was constructed in 1892 as the First National Bank and then housed the city’s first newspaper. The Trinity building was renovated in 2007 into a hotel and Italian fine dining restaurant.

“It’s special in how they managed to save the building,” said Donna Hernandez, head server at the hotel, who mentioned that the hotel is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. “Most of the doors and windows still are all original.”

Hernandez recommends the unique Safe Room for traveling honeymooners. It’s a 1,100 square-foot room with an open-air Jacuzzi and the previous bank’s safe converted into an extra bedroom, which runs $239 a night. Learn more: www.thetrinityhotel.com. ❤ Las Cruces Bulletin

Mountain Romance at

Sanctuary

on the River

Alicea Jare Photography

With the Rio Ruidoso and tranquil mountains as your backdrop and our romantic gazebo as your stage, a wedding at Sanctuary on the River is everything you have ever imagined for your special day.

Whether you want a small intimate ceremony or a lavish celebration, our unique venue is perfect!

www.SanctuaryOnTheRiver.com 575-630-1111 207 Eagle Dr. Ruidoso, NM 88355 Las Cruces Bulletin

Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17 • 27

28 • Perfect Southwest Weddings 2016-17

Las Cruces Bulletin