s in c e 1 9 8 8 , o u r f o u n d e r , J o hn N e e t e r ,
h a d dr e a me d o f cr e a ti n g a j e w e l r y
s t o r e with th e cl a s s , q u a li t y a n d
s e r vice o f the wo r ld' s f i n e s t j e we l r y
s t o r e s a c c o m p anied b y t h e inti m a t e ,
p e r s ona l f e e l o f a l o c a l j e w e l e r. H e
o p e ned a s to r e b u i l t o n t h e p rinc i p l e s
o f un c o mp r o m i s in g q u a li t y a n d s u p e r b
c u s t o me r s e r v i c e . J o hn i s thir d
g e n e r a t i o n in the j e w e l r y in d u s t r y .
Hi s v i s ion i s t o bri n g t h e l u x u r y t o
A member of Bellingham's community since 1988, our founder, John Neeter, had dreamed of creating a jewelry store with the class, quality and service of the world's finest jewelry stores accompanied by the intimate, personal feel of a local jeweler. He opened a store built on the principles of uncompromising quality and superb customer service. John is third generation in the jewelry industry. His vision is to bring the luxury
A member of Bellingham's community since 1988, our founder, John Neeter, had dreamed of creating a jewelry store with the class, quality and service of the world's finest jewelry stores accompanied by the intimate, personal feel of a local jeweler. He opened a store built on the principles of
His
o u r w o nd e r f u l town
our wonderful town.
SCAN TO SHOP
I
I PERSONALLY invite you to share in the experience of
we
the
SCAN TO SHOP
SCAN TO SHOP
editor's note
TThis year the Pacific Northwest is positively buzzing with wedding shows. Vendors are gathering, so that you, the betrothed, can sample their appetizers, talk to their representatives, and see their oh-so-unique specialties. On page 99, you will find our list of 2025 wedding shows, which span several counties in Western Washington and stretch into British Columbia. Be sure to check our website for the most up to date list.
Every time you choose a vendor, you fill in another part of the picture of what your wedding day is going to look like. At Pacific Coast Weddings, we know how important it is to choose quality, local vendors who fit perfectly into that picture. While we encourage you to go to wedding shows and meet vendors in person, we know that’s not always possible. That’s why we created our Resource Directory (P. 72 to 98). Visit us online to see photos of venues and vendors’ work, contact information and Q & As with our vendors, so that you can get to know them, see their style, and read about their passion for making weddings amazing.
Whether your wedding is going to involve five guests, 50 guests, 500 guests, or just the two of you, this is your opportunity to celebrate your way. For every uniquely you decision there will be relatives and friends offering alternatives and personal preferences. This is your wedding. Make choices that reflect the two of you and your journey together. However big or small, your wedding is going to come together. The seemingly insurmountable to-do lists will get shorter, we promise. The big day will come (you’ll have so much fun), and it’ll pass. Afterwards you’ll be married, and a few weeks later, on a sunny Saturday morning, you’ll wonder how you ever found time to fit in wedding planning on top of everything else.
Pacific Coast Weddings is here for you, to make the planning easier. In the following pages you will find advice, reliable and talented vendors, gorgeous venues, checklists and wedding planning inspiration. Check out our website at pacificcoastweddings.us for more information on our vendors, photos of our venues, and exclusive wedding content. From Pacific Coast Weddings to you, happy planning!
Aly McGee Editor, Pacific Coast Weddings www.PacificCoastWeddings.us
CO-PUBLISHERS
Pat Grubb and Louise Mugar
EDITOR
Aly McGee
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Doug De Visser
Ruth Lauman
ADVERTISING SALES
Molly Ernst Gary Lee
Louise Mugar
COVER PHOTO BY MyStache Photography mystachephoto.com
Pacific Coast Weddings, published locally since 2004, is a complimentary bridal guide designed to assist couples in the Pacific Northwest with planning their wedding.
Point Roberts Press also publishes The Northern Light and All Point Bulletin newspapers, Mount Baker Experience and Waterside magazines and regional maps and guides. Visit pointrobertspress.com for more information.
Volume XXI
weddings Pacific Coast
the go-to guide for northwest couples
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Getting Started
tThe question has been popped, the answer was yes and now it is time to get down to brass tacks. Or rather, it’s time to get down to gingham and dahlias and color schemes. A lot of time, work and decisions go into every wedding, whether it is bare bones or grand and complex. Here are the things to focus on post-engagement.
1. Take some time to enjoy being engaged. The time that you are engaged is special and exciting, and though it will certainly involve wedding planning, it isn’t just about planning the wedding. Your engagement is about you as a couple, your love and your commitment. Revel in those things.
2. Tell important people personally
before blasting the news on social media. Even if important members of the family, like grandparents, are not on social media, they are more likely to hear it from a third party once it’s public. Once you put that telltale ring picture on social media, people will assume that it’s fair game to share the news.
3. Begin a basic budget outline. No need to hammer out all the details the second the ring is sized and slipped on. Instead, figure out what you can contribute from savings, what percentage of your paycheck you are willing to set aside in the coming months and note any external contributions that you know of, such as help from parents or future in-laws.
4. Discuss the big picture of the wedding with your partner. You don’t have to start compromising or deciding just yet but be sure to discuss whether you want a lot of guests or few, a summer wedding or a winter one and possible themes and locations, especially if your families are from different places. Make sure that you both understand each other’s priorities and wants, so that you are on the same page when it is time to have tough discussions and make decisions.
5. Look at photographers. Engagement shoots are great for social media, save-thedates and for your wedding website. Deciding which photographer you want for your wedding can be a tough call with so many different styles of photography. An engagement shoot can be a great opportunity to work with a photographer and see if you mesh well before committing to having them do the whole wedding. If you do find the perfect photographer, ask them if they have packages or deals that include engagement photos.
6. Browse. For everything from the dress to
choosing the maid of honor, just take your time. It is easy to get caught up in the first dress that seems right or to start handing out titles like bridesmaid as the inspirations strike you. Don’t make any choices that you can’t change right off the bat. Asking a friend
to be your maid of honor and then finding out that your little sister wanted that role more than anything will put you in an awkward situation and nobody will walk away totally happy. Talk out your thoughts before you announce your choices or put down deposits.
The SNEAKER MOMENT
nWhether or not you should change into sneakers (and when) is a typical consideration for today’s bride.
Many brides opt for tennis shoes from the beginning and are stylishly comfortable from their first step onto the aisle until their last step from the dance floor into their Uber. Others opt to change before they step into the reception, and still others just keep their wedding sneakers nearby in case of an unexpected ache in their arches.
The thing is, while you may not plan on your feet hurting in your wedding heels, isn’t it best to be prepared?
Choosing the right bridal sneaker (second-look or otherwise) is largely a matter of taste. Perhaps you are the kind of bride who knows her sneaker brand loyalty and
thinks this is a very silly article. Of course, you will have a pair of white high-top Reeboks ready to go. But maybe, this article finds you at a backup shoe style impasse. There are plenty of options and considerations so let’s explore them.
Color
First things first, determine if you want white shoes or colorful shoes. If your dress hides your shoes entirely, they could be your something blue or a pop of color to brandish during photographs. If your dress is ankle length or higher (or if your dress is actually pants and not a dress at all) your shoes will be on full display. If you chose white, consider bringing a color swatch from your dress to the shoe store to match shades. A cream dress and bright white shoes is the kind of faux
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pas that may leave you with a pit in your stomach every time you look down.
Material
Options for base material in sneakers range from canvas to leather to suede and beyond, and like any wedding shoe, you can chose sneakers tricked out with any manner of wedding bling. Pearl, rhinestone, sequins and lace are all on the table. Consider the material of your dress, but also the material of any accessories, like shawls, hair accessories and jewelry. If you have a sparkly hairpiece, maybe rhinestone sneakers will tie your look together.
Sentiment
Maybe you’re not much of a sneakers person and the second you started looking into the world of casual wedding footwear you became overwhelmed with options. Maybe you could care less about sneaker brands or looks. Wearing a sneaker brand your fiancé grew up loving or a white, elevated version of a style of shoe
you used to wear when you two first met may create a beautiful post-ceremony surprise. Those you-know-me-so-well surprises create beautiful memories (and very cute pictures).
If you are teetering between “I want to wear my wedding heels from start to finish” and “I’m not sure my feet can cope with high heels I haven’t fully broken in for 4 to 6 hours” it would be best to have some sneakers on hand as a just-in-case emergency asset.
White sneakers are cuter and more comfortable than dollar store flip flops, and it will pay off in pictures to have put thought into what your wedding look looks like with your emergency footwear.
Whether sneakers are your first, your last, and your everything or just your backup, remember to break them in (preferably inside, away from mud, grass stains and puddles) to avoid blisters and sore feet when you walk out of your wedding venue and into the rest of your life.
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Hire a PRO
wWhen coming up with a wedding budget, it might be tempting to take a few shortcuts. Whether it’s your cousin who wants to utilize their amateur piano skills at the ceremony, or the friend who offers to take your photos with their new camera, think twice before taking the easy route.
Let your loved ones enjoy the day along with you and do what they are best at – laughing, crying and making memories – here’s why we think you should hire professionals.
You know what to expect.
With professionals, you have options, you can look through portfolios and read reviews, you have the right to be picky. Their past work lets you know whether you can expect excellence. This day is one you’ll always remember, after all, and so it is important that all the details, big and small, are exactly how you want them. You don’t want to be uncomfortable asking your friend to change some -
thing or, even worse, end up unhappy with the way things turn out.
They know what to expect.
You’re bound to have a million questions when planning an event this big and the professionals know how to answer them. Whether you are asking about something directly related to their expertise or not, they’ve spent enough time around weddings that they can offer some perspective and guide you through the process when the time comes. Let the professional ease your mind with their experience and direction.
You’re protected.
Most brides aren’t thinking of the worst-case scenario, and rightly so. But if a mishap happens, you want to be covered. Hiring a professional includes a contract that protects you, whether it be your caterer showing up late or your photographer getting sick. Any such
Alder
problems with a family member or friend and you are out of luck. Plus, professionals have insurance which means that most potential mistakes can be compensated.
Everyone can enjoy your day. Your family and friends have been waiting to see you walk down the aisle for months. Surprise them with your choices of entertainment and food and let them enjoy the day with you. You worked hard to make everything just right, and the professionals you hired won’t need you to guide them along. Relax, enjoy the company of your loved ones and take comfort in the fact that the professionals will do the rest.
There is no doubt that your loved ones still want to be involved in planning for such an exciting event. Have your mother and close friends look through photographer portfolios together and help pick the one that looks most like your style. They know you best, after all. From wedding dress shopping to manicures, they can still be there with you for the fun stuff along the way. But when it comes to the essential components of your wedding, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
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help Coordinating
tThe dress is draped on the hanger, the bouquets are in vases and the rings lie safely tucked away in the best man’s breast pocket. It’s time. For many, at this moment, their mind is racing, completing a final mental checklist, but you aren’t doing that. You’re thinking about how excited you are to see your fiancé at the end of the aisle. You don’t have to go over any checklist on the day-of because you delegated tasks to all of your helpers in advance.
Make a plan ahead of the big day, delegate responsibilities in an organized and fair fashion, and find yourself checklist-free on your way down the aisle.
How to coordinate helpers:
Make a chart. Use an online spreadsheet or write it out by hand. List the tasks that need to be handled dayof and write in who is in charge of each task.
Tasks to include:
Greeting and coordinating with caterers, photographers, the officiant and other hired personnel as they arrive, organizing bridesmaids, managing the betrotheds’ phones (someone will call to say they’re running late or need directions), self-care reminders (pass out snacks and water bottles while getting ready), holder of the emergency kit (p 66), timekeepers to keep
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bridesmaids, groomsmen, spouses and family on schedule, and someone at the ready to run last-minute offsite errands if anything has been forgotten.
Who to ask:
Parents, bridesmaids, groomsmen, other family members and trusted friends.
How to make sure everyone is on the same page:
If you made a digital chart, share it with everyone who has agreed to a task. If you handwrote it, take a picture and text it to the wedding party group chat. Print or take copies of the list to the wedding venue and post them where each group is getting ready (this is a task you may want to assign to a helper).
The asking itself:
Always ask people if they are willing to do extra tasks. Be gracious if someone doesn’t think they have the bandwidth to do extra tasks on the big day; you can always ask someone else.
Consider letting everyone pick the tasks that they are most comfortable with. Share the chart over a group text or email and allow participants to add their name next to tasks that appeal to them.
TIP:
Don’t forget to say thank you when your team makes your day a little easier, no matter how small their task or favor.
It can be easy to get caught up in the trap of what vows are “supposed” to sound like. Let’s throw that word “supposed” over our left shoulders with some salt for luck and forget about it. Vows are personal. Pretty words and elegant sentences are not important. When writing
i Writing vows
your vows, just be authentic.
Vows can be serious, dramatic and/or humorous. Clichéd as it sounds, good vows come from your heart.
Write down anecdotes from your relationship. Tell stories to yourself in the mirror about beautiful moments, funny
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TIP:
Give an extra copy of your vow notes to a trusted bridesmaid in case you forget yours. If your original plan wasn’t to improvise, it’s usually best not to just wing it.
moments and even hard moments that taught you something. Practice saying the words and see which stories move you most. Write those ones down. Make notes about the promises that you want to make. Of course, promise to be there for better or for worse, but you can also promise to be there through the chronic backseat driving and latenight ice cream runs. It’s your marriage, what promises do you want to make and keep?
Tell the story about the moment you knew this was the real deal. Say what you are looking forward to about marriage – that’s going to be different for everybody. Bring up adventures, laugh-
ter, support or whatever it is that makes your relationship so wonderful and important to you that you ended up here, getting married.
Take notes in a way that works for you. Some people like bullet points, while others need their vows written out word for word. After you get all your ideas out, figure out how you want to string them together.
If you can’t figure out the right order of the stories and promises that you want to include, try writing each idea on a separate index card, lay them all out on the floor and arrange them in different ways until they fit together the way you want. Then number the cards, so you don’t forget the order if they get mixed up.
Vows are simply a conversation between you and your partner, so don’t stress about them too much. Just make sure that you say what you mean and you mean what you say.
Even more online! www.PacificCoastWeddings.us
Pacific Coast Weddings is your one stop shop for wedding planning. Find us online at pacificcoastweddings.us. On our website you will find the tools you need to make your big day perfect. We have easy to navigate vendor listings, an extensive venue finder, a variety of to-do lists, our free downloadable workbook, upcoming wedding shows as well as a
blog featuring everything from do-ityourself projects, to trends, to real Pacific Northwest weddings. Stay in the know by signing up for our email blasts, which are full of updates and information that you will need to get planning. From the day of the proposal to the day you tie the knot, Pacific Coast Weddings is just a click away.
Thank you note tips
tThank you notes can seem like a big mountain to climb after the hubbub of the wedding has died down and you have returned from a relaxing honeymoon. Especially for a big wedding, the thank yous can be time consuming. Here’s how to make the process efficient and less overwhelming.
• Use a photo from the wedding as the artwork on your thank you card.
• Write down who gave you what as you open gifts and cards. Make a running note in your phone of who gave you what starting with the first card that comes in the mail. It is much less stressful to write your way through a list, checking people off as you go than to try to remember later.
• Pre-address envelopes. Either have the addresses printed out as stickers
ahead of time, or if you are planning on handwriting, address an envelope for each guest who has RSVPed when you have downtime before the wedding.
• Don’t overwrite. Burn out happens quickly when each thank you note is paragraphs long. Follow our simple thank-you note format for short, but personal thank you notes.
Tried and true thank you note format
Dear ____
Thank you for the _____. We so appreciate it and look forward to doing _____ with it. We are so happy you could share our special day with us.
Thank you again.
With love, Both spouses sign
How to tie a BOW TIE
1 2
1. Hang one end 1.5 inches longer than the other.
2. Take longer end and cross over shorter end.
Some bow ties come with adjustable straps in the back. Tighten these last.
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3. Pass longer end up and under the neck loop. Put over shoulder until step 5.
6
6.
Fold long end over with tail toward your chin. Then, leading with folded edge, pass loop between first bow and neck loop.
7
7. Pull on both ends of the bow to tighten and adjust.
4
4.
Fold short end (a) in half to make the front loop of the bow. Then pull the loop parallel to neckline (image 5).
5
5. Drape long end over the front of the bow.
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How to tie A TIE
1
1. Place tie around your neck. Make sure your shirt is fully buttoned with the collar flipped up. The wide side should hang about a foot lower than the narrow side.
2
2. Cross the wide side over top of the narrow side.
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3. Bring the wide side around the back of the narrow side and over the front again. The wide side will end up in back. Use your fingers to hold the knot you have formed in place.
4 5
4. Pull the wide edge through the top of the neck loop and feed it through the knot you’ve created.
5. Hold the narrow end of the tie securely and slide the knot up to tighten.
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Digitaltips
U• Use a QR Code to link to a third-party website where guests can upload the photos they take at your wedding. Make sure you find a photo upload site that allows people to upload easily and directly from their phones.
• Keep your wedding website simple. Stick to the basics, like day-of details, directions, online RSVP, and registry link.
• Online RSVPs are a must whether you have a wedding website or not. Include a QR code linking to your online RSVP tracker.
• Put guests’ addresses into a digital spreadsheet so that you can easily print off sticker address labels for save-the-dates, invitations, thank you notes and future holiday cards.
• Include charging stations in your reception area. Have multiple types of chargers available at a a location in the reception venue.
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• Digital wedding guestbooks are a great way to keep track of special day-of messages. Choose to request either video messages or typed messages. Use a QR code prominently displayed to direct guests to fill out a guestbook form with their name and message or upload their video message to a shared folder.
Blending a family:CEREMONY TIPS
MMany couples with children opt to include rituals that symbolize blending their families. Here are some ideas for how to include your children in the ceremony.
• A popular way to do this is bringing the children up during the ceremony so that the new stepparent can say additional vows to their stepchild(ren) after the couple’s vows.
• Some couples opt for visual rituals. Each member of the family can bring up a different type of flower and puts it in a vase, creating a bouquet. Some couples choose to do this with favorite candy being poured into a jar and shaken up, or others with colored sand being mixed together, but the ritual itself is more or less the same. It symbolizes the diversity the individuals who are coming together to create a new family unit.
• Each adult and child could add their handprint to a canvas that says “family” (but be sure there is someone standing by to roll up sleeves and wipe paint off of hands).
• An especially crafty couple could have helped each child pick out fabric for a quilt and on the day of the wedding, present the blended family quilt to the children. Quilts like this can be commissioned as well if you’re not particularly crafty, but like the idea of a blended family blanket in your living room for years to come.
Whether your blended family ritual ends up being words, visuals, or keepsakes, including your children in your wedding ceremony can go a long way to making them feel included in the day and in the family.
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How does it make you feel? Dress/suit shopping
aAs fun as it’s supposed to be, it’s no secret that trying on wedding-wear can be a taxing process. Sometimes the dream dress doesn’t look, well, dreamy. Maybe one of your trusted support people isn’t actually being very supportive. Maybe everything is going well, but the whole process is bringing up unexpected emotions. This is our guide for being well-prepared for your wedding dress or suit shopping experience, so that you can enjoy the process, regardless of any hitches.
Bring reference photos if you are wanting to try on anything specific. Even if you know the lingo, a good reference photo is a streamlined way to start with what you’re most curious to try on. Be open-minded about trying different styles. You don’t have to be open-minded because someone in your family is really pressuring you to wear a ballgown or a traditional tuxedo but, rather, be open-minded for yourself. A lot of people picture themselves at their
wedding in one style of dress or one kind of suit and have for their entire lives. Give yourself the space to try other styles.
Listen to the consultants on the sales floor. Wedding dress consultants have seen many, many, many brides, just as sales staff and tailors at the suit store have fitted many a suit. Lean on their expertise when you find yourself stuck for what to try next.
Try on everything. There will be dresses you try that you think, “I’m going to hate how I look in that” and you will be proven right. But you will also try on dresses you didn’t expect to like that make you feel gorgeous. Be open to the unexpected.
The support crew you bring is important. Don’t expect anyone you bring to be any different than they normally are. That is to say, if your mom is very critical and pushes her own preferences on you in your daily relationship, do not expect her to magically be different at the wedding dress store. Whether
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that means you leave her at home, or just know to be emotionally prepared to ignore her comments is up to you. Sometimes bringing more people helps drown out the one negative voice, so don’t hesitate to stack the couch with friends, sisters, brothers, bridal party members, etc who understand that the only person who has to like what you wear to your wedding is you.
How do you feel? There is only one question to ask yourself when looking at the mirror: “How do you feel?” How you feel in the dress is more important than anyone else’s opinion or any ideas you were holding onto when you came to the store.
Enjoy the shopping experience and be true to yourself. It’s you who will be walking down the aisle in what you chose, so chose what makes you feel fabulous.
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Nick Hanyok Imaging
Venue Finder welcome to the
The perfect venue is out there. Whether you are looking for an intimate mountainside or a grand hall for hundreds of guests, we’ve got just the venue for you.
This section will help you find your ideal wedding venue. Use our Venues at a Glance to compare Venues with information on capacity, indoor and outdoor settings, on-site catering and more. Then, pages 34 to 49, will help you get a glimpse of what all the venues have to offer for your special day.
This section will help you match yourself with a wedding venue that checks all of your boxes.
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WEDDING & RECEPTION VENUES venues AT A glance
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ISLAND COUNTY
Four Springs Lake Preserve
360/387-1418
Camano Island fourspringshouse.com
JEFFERSON COUNTY
Northwest Maritime Center
360/385-3628 x2
Port Townsend nwmaritime.org
KING COUNTY
Cedarbrook Lodge
206/214-4150
Seattle cedarbrooklodge.com
SAN JUAN COUNTY
Brickworks Event Center
Friday Harbor fhbrickworks.com
SKAGIT COUNTY
Beau Lodge 360/724-7508
Bow beaulodge.com
Majestic Inn & Spa
360/299-1400
Anacortes majesticinnandspa.com Outdoor
McIntyre Hall
360/416-7622
Mount Vernon mcintyrehall.org
The Skagit Casino Resort
Bow theskagit.com
SNOHOMISH COUNTY
Lombardi’s Italian Restaurant
& Wine Bar Everett lombardisitalian.com
Marysville Opera House
360/363-8400
Marysville marysvillewa.gov/OH
Nature’s Connection Wedding 425/789-7692
& Event Venue Arlington natures-connection.com
On-site: Must use venue’s in-house catering. Open: Venue accepts any caterer. Preferred: Venue has list of
Nita Lake Lodge Resort & Spa sales@nitalakelodge.com Indoor/
Whistler, BC nitalakelodge.com/weddings Outdoor
Stanley Park Pavilion
604/757-7168 Indoor/
Vancouver, BC stanleyparkpavilion.com Outdoor
“I love her, and that’s the beginning and the end of everything.”
– F. Scott Fitzgerald
The historic and nationally ranked Majestic Inn and Spa is the premier wedding venue in Anacortes. From an intimate wedding to 180 guests, have your special day in style with spectacular San Juan Island views. The Majestic has 64 luxury guest rooms, full-service catering, and an award winning spa. Multiple indoor and outdoor venues will make your wedding truly Majestic.
Ask about our special Rooftop Ceremony and Reception Packages.
“Come grow old with me. The best is yet to be.”
- William Wordsworth
- Zelda Fitzgerald
McIntyre Hall
McIntyre Hall is conveniently located equidistant between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C.
An elegant choice for weddings and receptions, private parties and rehearsal dinners. Serving groups as small as 75 or as large as 250, McIntyre Hall offers complete services from event planning to catering with a variety of menus. It’s the perfect choice for any celebration!
- Leo Tolstoy
Matt Priestman Photography
– Maya Angelou
• Gorgeous Historic/Rustic venue with 3 private rooms.
• Accommodations for 100+
• Specializing in Weddings, Rehearsals, Bachelor/Bridesmaids Parties, Baby Showers, Corporate/ Holiday parties, and all personal celebrations.
“The secret of a happy marriage is f inding the right person. You know they’re right if you love to be with them all the time.”
- Julia Child
“If I had a f lower for every time I thought of you … I could walk through my garden forever.”
– Alfred Lord Tennyson
45 Venue Finder
“Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get – only with what you
are expecting to give – which is everything.”
-Katherine Hepburn
-Emily Brontë
Gorgeous outdoor venue nestled in the countryside
Breanna Plus
Kevin
“True love stories never have endings”
– Richard Bach
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G THE CHECKLISTS
etting started on wedding planning can seem a little intimidating, but we are here to help.
With so many details to take care of, it’s normal to worry that you’ll forget something. With our detailed and scheduled checklists, you can cross that concern off your list. From questions to ask your caterer, to when you should book that spa treatment, we will be with you all the way to the aisle. At that point, it’s all you!
In this section, you’ll find checklists, worksheets, to-do’s and suggested questions to ask prospective wedding vendors to stay organized from start to finish throughout the planning process.
This is your copy of Pacific Coast Weddings, so mark it up, take notes and add items as needed. All of these worksheets are available at pacificcoastweddings.us.
AND WHEN What to do
12–6 months
2 Announce your engagement
2 Pick the date
2 Start working on your guest list
2 Decide on and invite your wedding party
2 Develop a budget, taking into consideration family contributions
2 Plan on attending local wedding shows
2 Research and visit wedding and reception venues (p. 31)
2 Create a wedding notebook to keep yourself organized
2 Create a wedding website (see our blog for advice)
2 Select your wedding party
2 Book blocks of hotel rooms in varying price ranges for out-of-town guests
2 Hire a wedding planner
2 Order your dress and veil
2 Book an officiant
2 Hire your photographer and videographer
2 Pick out your DJ or band
2 Research and book caterers and florists
2 Start shopping for a dress
6–4 months
2 Create your wedding website
2 Send save-the-date cards
2 Register for gifts
2 Select an invitation style and determine the proper wording
2 Shop for your bridesmaids’ dresses
2 Determine what the groom and groomsmen will wear
2 Discuss ceremony ideas and wording with your officiant
2 Set up premarital counseling (some officiants require this)
2 Book honeymoon and make travel arrangements
2 Purchase your wedding rings
2 Select a baker and confirm wedding cake and decorations
2 Mail invitations four to six weeks prior to the big day
2 Update your wedding website
2 Take engagement photos
One month
2 Organize RSVPs and contact guests who haven’t responded
2 Get marriage license
2 Try on wedding dress with shoes for final fitting
2 Assign seating for reception
2 Finalize your playlist
2 Check bridal party attire
2 Practice your first dance
2 Find someone to watch your home or feed pets during honeymoon
2 Review “must have” shots with photographer and videographer
2 Meet with hair stylist and makeup artist for a test run
2 Begin writing thank you notes for early wedding gifts
2 Write vows and toasts
2 Update your registry
2–1 weeks
2 Confirm final guest count and wedding day schedule with all vendors
2 Confirm all transportation arrangements
2 Confirm times and locations for photo sessions
2 Share wedding day schedule with wedding party and family members
2 Book a spa treatment
2 Organize wedding dress, shoes and all accessories, including jewelry and bridal emergency kit
2 Pack for wedding night and honeymoon
2 Decide who will take home your reception gifts
2 Assign people to do reception site cleanup
The day before
2 Prepare payment envelopes for vendors and determine how they will be delivered
2 Rehearse ceremony with officiant and wedding party
On your wedding day
2 Give yourself plenty of time to get ready
2 Take a quiet moment to yourself
2 Eat a nutritious breakfast and drink plenty of fluids
2 Exchange gifts with your betrothed
2 Have fun and enjoy the biggest celebration of your life!
Nick Hanyok Imaging
Budget PLANNING YOUR
Nick Hanyok Imaging
Flowers
At Ceremony
Bridal Bouquet
Groom’s Boutonnière
Attendants
Parents
Subtotal
Music/Entertainment
Subtotal
Videography
Hotel Accommodations
Ceremony Site
Nick Hanyok Imaging
S Ask YOUR VENDORS
ome wedding vendors will fit like a glove and others won’t. To choose the wedding vendors who best suit your needs, we have compiled a list of questions to ask each one – from the officiant to the DJ – so you make sure you get the best fit with your personality, goals and budget.
Mystache Photography
QUESTIONS TO ASK A
• How long have you been in business?
wedding planner
• Do you have a business license?
• How many meetings do you expect we’ll have?
• Will you come with us to meetings with other vendors?
• How many other clients do you expect to have during the month of our wedding?
• What happens if for some reason you become unable to be present at our wedding?
• Do you have a minimum budget that you work with?
• Are there any additional expenses on top of your base fee?
• Do you have experience working with our chosen venue?
• What parts of the planning will we be responsible for?
• Can you provide a list of the services included in your fee?
QUESTIONS TO ASK A
venue
• How many people can your facility accommodate?
• What packages do you offer?
• Do you have on-site catering? Can we choose to have an offsite caterer?
• Do you have a liquor license?
• Is there a surcharge for bringing in alcohol? Corkage fees?
• Can you provide lighting?
• Do you provide linens, tables, chairs, dinnerware, etc.?
• Is there an extra fee for those items?
• When will we have access to the room to setup? How long will we have it?
• Can we hold our rehearsal dinner here?
• Will any other events be scheduled on the same day as ours?
• What are your policies should we need to cancel?
• For outdoor venues: Is there a plan in the event of inclement weather?
• Who is responsible for acquiring licenses and coordinating any facility rentals?
• Are there any restrictions on entertainment, decorations, dress code or alcohol?
Alder and Pine Photography
QUESTIONS TO ASK A
Alder and Pine Photography
photographer,videographer
• How many weddings have you shot to date? Independently?
• Do you have a business license?
• How would you describe your style? Traditional, photojournalistic, portraiture?
• How independent or collaborative are you with couples?
• What does a package include? Will we receive prints, digital copies or an album?
• How long will it take us to get photos or video after the wedding?
• What rights do you retain to photos or videos from our wedding?
• How comfortable are you shooting in differently lighted areas?
• How many hours will you be onsite for the wedding day?
• Will you attend any other wedding-related events?
• Does your package include engagement photos?
• Do you have an assistant or second photographer/videographer?
• Do you carry backup equipment?
• What is your cancellation/refund policy?
QUESTIONS TO ASK AN
officiant
• How long have you officiated weddings? Please describe your experience.
• Are you licensed to perform a wedding in the state of Washington?
• Will you travel to our location?
• Is there any reason you wouldn’t marry a couple?
• (If religious) Will you perform the ceremony somewhere other than a place of worship?
• Will you allow us to customize the ceremony? Can we write our own vows?
• Do you require any premarital counseling?
• Will you attend the rehearsal dinner, reception or other weddingrelated events?
• What is your cancellation/refund policy?
• How much do you charge for your services?
Alder and Pine Photography
QUESTIONS TO ASK A
caterer
• Do you have a business license?
• Is there anything you specialize in? What are your favorite menu items?
• What was your favorite meal to cater? Why?
• Do you provide samples/tasting?
• Can you provide references?
• Who will be setting up and serving the food? What about clean up?
• Are extra charges or deposits required for cake stands or serving dishes?
• When is the final head count due?
• Is your quote inclusive or are there any additional charges (i.e. travel, service, etc.)?
• Are you insured?
• What is your cancellation/refund policy?
• Do you bake wedding cakes? Do you have recommendations for a baker?
Nick Hanyok Imaging
QUESTIONS TO ASK A
florist loristf
• Can I see examples of your past work?
• Can you help me determine what flowers would be most suitable for my wedding, and/or in season?
• Will you work in coordination with the style of my wedding?
• Do you rent items such as arches, aisle runners, vases and/or pedestals?
• How much time do you need for setup and take down?
• What is your delivery policy?
• Can floral pieces from the ceremony be reused at the reception?
• What is your cancellation/refund policy?
Mystache
Photography
QUESTIONS TO ASK A dj/band
• How many weddings have you worked at?
• Do you take requests from guests?
• Can we see you perform live at any approaching event?
• Will you also emcee the reception?
• How much time will you need to set up?
• Will you bring your own equipment? What about backup equipment?
• Do you provide a microphone for toasts?
• What is your cancellation/refund policy?
Nick Hanyok Imaging
BRIDE’S EMERGENCY KIT
HEALTH/MEDICAL
2 Antacids
2 Band-Aids
2 Breath mints
2 Eye drops
2 Pain reliever
2 Spare contact lenses
2 Feminine hygiene
2 Tissues
2 Toothbrush, paste and floss
2 Tweezers
BEAUTY
2 Compact mirror
2 Deodorant
2 Eye makeup remover
2 Eyeliner
2 Face powder/blotters
2 Lipstick or gloss
2 Nail file
2 Nail polish and remover pads
2 Perfume
2 Q-tips
NUTRITION
2 Snacks
2 Water
HAIR
2 Bobby pins
2 Brush or comb
2 Curling and/or straightening iron
2 Hair spray
DRESS/CLOTHING
2 Comfortable flats
2 Extra earring backs
2 Extra panty hose
2 Medical tape (for torn seams)
2 Lint roller
2 Small sewing kit with safety pins
2 Spare buttons for your dress
2 Spare cufflinks
2 Stain-remover wipes or stick
2 White chalk (to disguise dress stains)
2 Instructions for tying a bow tie
2 Wooden hanger for dress photos
MISCELLANEOUS
2 Cash
2 Cell phone and charger
2 Drinking straws (to avoid smudging your lipstick)
2 Notebook and pens
2 Super glue
2 Umbrella (at least one)
Alder and Pine Photography
WEDDING TIMELINE
10:30 A.M.: GET PAMPEREDHead to the salon for your hair and makeup appointments
12:30 P.M.: GIRL TIMEGather your bridesmaids and start getting ready
1:00 P.M.: GUY TIMEGroom and groomsmen get dressed
1:30 P.M.: FIRST LOOK PHOTO OPTake separate bridal party photos
2:30 P.M.: TIME OUTEnjoy a last quiet moment
3:00 P.M.: GET HITCHEDIt’s time to say, “I do!”
3:30 TO 5 P.M.: SMILEPhotos of the couple, bridal party and family
5:00 TO 8 P.M.: PARTY TIMECelebrate with friends and family at your reception
5:00 p.m.: The couple arrives
5:45 p.m.: Dinner is served
6:15 p.m.: Enjoy the toasts
6:30 p.m.: Cut the cake
7:00 p.m.: First dance
7:15 p.m.: Party the night away
8:30 p.m.: Toss the garter/bouquet
10:00 P.M.: SAY GOODNIGHTHead out for your honeymoon
Tip:
Plan your cake cutting for early in the reception so older guests and those with children can cut out early without missing that sweet moment.
Nick Hanyok Imaging
the basics REGISTERING
Starting a life together is going to require a few basics.
That’s why registering for the right items is a key part of the wedding planning process. To help you list everything you will need, we’ve put together a set of basics for your registry. Customize it to meet your own needs!
Kitchen
Blender
Teapot
Stand mixer
Knife set
Kitchen continued
2 Place settings (a set of eight is a common suggestion – it might be too many for now, but it won’t always be!)
2 Serving dishes
2 Pots and pans (skillet, stockpot, saucepan, multipurpose)
2 Measuring spoons and measuring cups
2 Baking items: Mixing bowl, cupcake tin, baking sheets, whisk, cake pan, pie pan
2 Oven mitts
2 Cutting board
2 Table decorations, such as candlesticks, table runners, linen napkins and place mats
2 Various types of glasses (wine, water, cocktail)
2 Vases, bowls and other decorative pieces (these are great as less expensive registry items)
Bedroom
2 Comforter/duvet
2 Humidifier/dehumidifier
2 Quality pillows
2 Blankets
2 Pillowcases
2 Bed skirt
2 Sheet sets (specify bed size)
Bathroom
2 Bathroom set (toothbrush holder, soap holder, etc.)
2 Full-length mirror
2 Shower curtain
2 Hand towels, bath towels, washcloths
2 Waste basket For Cleaning
2 Waste baskets, hampers
2 Ironing board and iron
2 Vacuum
Outdoors
2 Grill/Barbeque, tools
2 Patio furniture
2 Welcome mat
Miscellaneous
• Totes and other organizational supplies. Especially if you have a small home, you’re going to need some help making good use of your space and organizing all of your gifts.
• Supplies for your hobbies.
Do you love camping? Include a tent or a camp stove. Are the two of you both into music? Register for a new record player or a set of quality speakers. This is your registry after all, and it’s there to set you up for your life together.
• Gift cards.
These are great contingency gifts. When you realize what you forgot to register for, you’ll be glad to have received a few of these. This is even more crucial if you’re getting married far from where you live, either at a destination or close to your families; you won’t want to cart a bunch of gifts home on a plane or road trip.
Alternatives
• Honeymoon fund.
If you don’t need any physical items, you can always have a honeymoon fund option, allowing people to give to your honeymoon experience.
• Charitable donations.
If you’ve already got most of what you need, asking for donations to your favorite charity is a generous way of spreading the joy. If you’re uncomfortable asking people to cut checks, try asking people to donate items. A summer wedding is a great opportunity to ask guests to bring school supply donations. Fall weddings are a great time to ask for winter coat and clothing donations. Winter weddings are a great opportunity to ask people to participate in a holiday toy drive.
For experienced-based registry ideas, visit p. 70.
Nick
Registering forEXPERIENCE
If you’ve started making a registry and found yourself stumped for what to put on it, an experience registry might be a better fit.
iRegister for museum memberships, honeymoon experiences, or subscriptions for your first year of marriage.
Honeymoon registries
Put extra honeymoon experiences on your registry. If you’re honeymooning in Hawaii book your tickets and your room, but list out all of the activities
you’re hoping to do, like snorkeling, a fancy dinner on the beach, luau tickets, whale watching etc. Guests can contribute money towards different activities or buy an activity outright. If you are honeymooning in the Pacific Northwest, consider NW Sailing Adventures, a trip with Washington Llamas, or tree or rock climbing with AdventureTerra.
Memberships and passes
List out memberships you would use often together, such as memberships to
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local museums, zoos or aquariums. Depending on where you live and where you spend your weekends there are tons of options in the Pacific Northwest. The Seattle Art Museum, The Burke Museum of Natural History, The Heritage Flight Museum, The Whatcom Museum all offer memberships for two people for between 90 and 120 dollars per year.
Register for a Discover Pass, so that you can visit state parks all year.
Register for lift tickets at Mount Baker or Crystal Mountain.
Subscriptions
If you like a nice monthly surprise, floral subscriptions, coffee subscriptions and cider, beer or wine subscriptions can usually be sourced locally.
Subscriptions don’t have to be snack boxes or magazines. Pacific Northwest Ballet offers subscriptions as well as mini-subscriptions to their seasons.
Event tickets
One-off tickets to shows are also a
great thing to add to an experience registry. Great options that are local to the Pacific Northwest are:
Music: Pacific Northwest Opera, Seattle Symphony, Bellingham Symphony Orchestra, or Mount Baker Theatre’s Broadway series
Comedy: The Upfront Theater, Laughs Comedy Club, Julia’s on Broadway – Le Faux Playhouse
Tickets for touring shows, bands and comedians are plentiful in the Pacific Northwest, and your favorite band, comedian or Broadway show may be coming to the area this year.
If you don’t want to fill a registry with physical items, let your guests contribute to making your honeymoon spectacular or let them contribute to filling your first year of marriage with life-long memories. Don’t let tradition hold you back from creating a registry that fits your lifestyle.
Nick Hanyok Imaging
Mystache Photography
Alder and Pine Photography
ACCOMMODATIONS
CEDARBROOK LODGE
18525 36th Ave. S, Seattle
206/901-9268
cedarbrooklodge.com
info@cedarbrooklodge.com
Memorable wedding moments should also include a relaxing stay. Award-winning Cedarbrook Lodge offers a variety of comfortable guestrooms and suites, including high-class amenities, to accommodate your guests. We’re happy to offer specials, and can reserve hotel blocks for on-site wedding parties.
Each of our guest rooms overlooks a spectacular Northwest seascape. Our spacious rooms feature fireplace, down comforters, luxury amenities and a twoperson bath elegantly set in natural slate. Full bar, fine dining restaurant on-site.
FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON
714 Lakeway Drive, Bellingham
360/671-1011
fourpointsbellingham.com
erin.devine@fourpointsbellingham.com
Guests will appreciate our newly renovated modern guest rooms. All rooms are well appointed and very spacious. All guest rooms offer king and/or double queen bedding, with microwave, mini fridge and coffee maker. King and Queen Suites available as well.
HOTEL BELLWETHER
1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham
360/392-3100
hotelbellwether.com
info@hotelbellwether.com
Noted as the most scenic wedding destination in the
Pacific Northwest, Hotel Bellwether offers luxurious accommodations and first-class amenities. Indoor & outdoor event space for 10 to 400 guests in our Grand Ballroom. 66 guest rooms, including the magical threestory Lighthouse Suite. Full-service catering and hotel staff to cater to your every whim!
MAJESTIC INN AND SPA
419 Commercial Avenue, Anacortes 360/299-1400
majesticinnandspa.com
sales@majesticinnandspa.com
In the heart of historic Anacortes, the Majestic Inn & Spa will take your breath away with rooms that boast luxury and comfort. Let us make your visit a Majestic experience.
OXFORD SUITES BELLINGHAM
4051 Meridian Street, Bellingham 360/676-1400
oxfordsuitesbellingham.com
sales.bellingham@oxfordsuites.com
Brand new beautiful hotel with a boutique touch! In the perfect location, we offer impeccable service, full onsite catering, and flexible space for your guests. Attractive wedding packages create a memorable experience for every bride.
SEMIAHMOO RESORT
9565 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine
360/318-2000
semiahmoo.com
info@semiahmoo.com
Nestled in a breathtaking coastal setting, Semiahmoo Resort offers a stunning backdrop for your wedding celebration. With a variety of comfortable guestrooms and suites, many featuring breathtaking views of Semiahmoo Bay, private patios or balconies, and cozy in-room fireplaces, your stay will be nothing short of memorable.
SILVER REEF CASINO RESORT
4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale
360/383-0777
silverreefcasino.com/hotel
Nestled in between Mount Baker and the San Juans, your guests will relax in style and comfort. A day spa, exciting gaming, and a variety of dining options make Silver Reef the ideal wedding hotel.
BEVERAGES AND BARTENDING
SAMSON ESTATES WINERY
1861 Van Dyk Road, Everson
360/966-7787 extension 203
samsonestates.com
info@samsonestates.com
Internationally award winning Samson Estates offers a discount on all wine by the case for your on/off site events. Varietals and fruit wines.
CAKES AND DESSERTS
L & L BAKERY
477 Peace Portal Drive, Ste. 101, Blaine
360-392-8459
landlbakery.com
landlbakery01@gmail.com
We bring your wedding cake vision to life, crafting a masterpiece that reflects your style and theme, leaving a lasting impression and creating unforgettable memories. We specialize in custom cakes, dessert tables, and macaron towers.
CATERERS
AVENUE CATERERS
676 South Spruce Street, Burlington
360/755-5880
cateringbyavenue.com
info@cateringbyavenue.com
Weddings, corporate events, lunches, anniversaries and parties of all sizes. Plated or buffet, delivery and dropoff. A true custom catering service creating meals to complement your tastes. We are also licensed to provide Beer, Wine and Spirits. Events on the Islands and remote locations are not a problem with our state-of-the-art Mobile Catering Kitchen bringing Fresh Fabulous Food anywhere, any time.
Mystache Photography
Alder and Pine Photography
CONCEPT CATERING BY LOMBARDI’S
360/540-8214
conceptcatering.com
events@conceptcatering.com
Concept Catering by Lombardi’s brings gourmet cuisine to weddings & other special events throughout the Puget Sound Area. We offer multiple options for catering your wedding such as a delivery and set-up, or our all-inclusive package where we take care of everything you need.
CRAVE CATERING
Bellingham
360/746-7712
cravecatering.net
Donna@cravecatering.net
Make your wedding unforgettable with Crave Catering. From elegant plated dinners to personalized menus, we create exceptional culinary experiences that reflect your love story. Let us bring your dream day to life. Book today!
K ELLY’S CASUAL CATERING
Ferndale
360/384-1702
kellyscasualcatering.com
Stephanie@kellyscasualcatering.com
Celebrate your big day with Kelly’s Casual Catering! From crowdpleasing buffets to deliciously fun food stations, we make weddings easy and memorable. Perfect for laid-back couples who love great food. Delivery service available!
DRESSES AND APPAREL
S UENO BRIDAL
317 Telegraph Road, Bellingham
360/392-0752
suenobridal.com
suenobridal@gmail.com
Sueno Bridal carries beautiful bridal gowns and quinceanera dresses at affordable prices from quality designers. Our hairpieces, necklaces and earrings will add the final touch to your perfect assemble. We also carry gowns for prom, homecoming, graduation, bridesmaids and mother of the bride/groom.
Nick Hanyok Imaging
FLORISTS
THE GREENHOUSE FLORIST AND NURSERY
555 NE 7th Avenue, Oak Harbor
360/675-6668
thegreenhousefandn.com
thegreenhouseoakharbor@live.com
Family-Owned business for over 70 years. Designers are available for events in the future or next week. Our ‘Flower Bar’ is very popular for DYI and the hands-on experience of choosing your own flowers. Open 7 days a week.
JEWELRY
NEETER HOUSE OF LUXURY
40 Bellwether Way, Suite 102, Bellingham
360-778-1613
neeterhouseofluxury.com
john@neeterhouseofluxury.com
Finally, Whatcom County gets the upscale, boutique fine jewelry experience it has long deserved. As a valued client, you will receive personalized service focused on fulfilling the true definition of luxury! Custom designs and GIA Graded Diamonds.
PARTY SUPPLY AND EVENT RENTALS
WHIDBEY EVENT RENTALS
Whidbey Island
360/836-2853
whidbeyeventrentals.com
RentOnIsland@gmail.com
Boutique business providing quality rentals for destination weddings on Whidbey Island, including hand-crafted cedar tables and canopy tents. We look forward to serving you.
PHOTOGRAPHERS
ALDER AND PINE PHOTOGRAPHY
360/255-3152
alderandpinephotography.com
hello@alderandpinephotography.com
Alder and Pine Photography provide stunning wedding photography throughout the PNW. Documenting all the details, candid interactions and bridal moments that can be enjoyed for years to come.
MYSTACHE PHOTO
425/923-0496
mystachephoto.com
contact@mystachephoto.com
You have found your friendly wedding day 3rd wheel. Capturing true, honest, emotional love since 2010. Comfortable direction, posing and editing to provide you with the most natural-looking photo memories possible.
NICK HANYOK IMAGING
302/312-5022
nickhanyokimaging.com
nick@nickhanyokimaging.com
Nick Hanyok is a published and award-winning Seattle wedding photographer who serves the entire PNW. His style is bright, beautiful, and fun and ensures all his couples feel at ease in front of the camera.
SALON AND SPA
THE CHRYSALIS INN & SPA
BELLINGHAM, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON
804 10th Street, Bellingham
360/392-5515
spaatthechrysalisinn.com
chris.caldwell@hilton.com
Relax at the luxurious spa at The Chrysalis. Enjoy massages, facials, body treatments, hydrotherapy, couples massages and relaxing steam rooms.
M AJESTIC INN AND SPA
419 Commercial Avenue, Anacortes
360/299-2112
theapothecaryspa.com
Featuring a eucalyptus steam room, the Apothecary Spa is an award-winning, full service retreat on the second floor of the historic building. Our mission is to help each guest find wellness, restore balance, and experience deep relaxation.
Whether you want an intimate Presidential Hotel suite or a large ballroom, Silver Reef offers over 25,000 Square Feet of banquet space, full service catering, 206 luxurious hotel rooms, and a day spa.
THE SPA AT CEDARBROOK LODGE
18525 36th Avenue South, Seattle
206/214-4315
cedarbrooklodge.com info@cedarbrooklodge.com
Treat yourselves, your bridal party, or kick off your honeymoon with some much-deserved relaxation at The Spa. From pre-wedding pampering to postwedding rejuvenation, we will help alleviate stress from the big day. Enjoy a customized spa day with many luxurious treatments to choose from.
Alder and Pine Photography
THE SPA AT SEMIAHMOO
9565 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine
360/318-2009
semiahmoo.com/spa spadesk@semiahmoo.com
Kick off your wedding with a couple’s massage! The Spa provides everything you need for some well-deserved pre-wedding relaxation. We offer a full menu including facials, massages, and body treatments, as well as a variety of salon services including hair and make-up.
TRANSPORTATION
BELLA IR CHARTERS
360/543-9375
bellaircharters.com
charters@bellaircharters.com
Bellair Charters, your group transportation specialists, offers 56- and 47-passenger luxury motorcoaches as well as mini buses and vans to accommodate any group size. Let the experts drive for you so you can sit back, relax and enjoy your event. Airport pick up available in Washington and British Columbia.
VENUES
BAKER C REEK PLACE
1650 Baker Creek Place, Bellingham
360/671-4247
bakercreekplace.com events@biawc.com
Centrally located beautiful new venue along Baker Creek offering a 3,000 sq. ft. banquet room and two meeting rooms. Outdoor patio, sound system, digital projector, catering kitchen, etc. for up to 200 guests. Tables and chairs included.
BEAU LODGE
17581 Wood Road, Bow
360/724-7508
beaulodge.com
Celebrate your marriage in the privacy of our beautiful, secluded estate. The forest, salmon ladder and pond, meadows and gardens create a truly Pacific Northwest ambiance and memories that will last a lifetime. A magical place.
BRIC KWORKS EVE NT CENTER
150 Nichols Street, Friday Harbor
360/378-0095
fhbrickworks.com manager@fhbrickworks.com
A beautiful historic venue within walking distance of the ferry and many guest accommodations. With a commercial kitchen, indoor space accommodating 120 guests and an outdoor plaza with a stage, Brickworks Events Center is a true island gem.
Hanyok
BROAD WAY HALL
1300 Broadway, Bellingham 360/733-1560
broadwayhall.com
hall@broadwayhall.com
Glowing chandeliers, hardwood floors, a romantic balcony and sandstone fireplace create unique ambiance. 5,000 sq. ft. allows you to have your wedding and reception in one place. Your day will be remembered in this beautiful indoor venue.
CEDARB ROOK LODGE
18525 36th Avenue South, Seattle 206/214-4150
cedarbrooklodge.com
weddings@cedarbrooklodge.com
With an unbelievable northwest backdrop, locally sourced cuisine, a caring team to assist, ample parking, and a comfortable place for all guests to stay, Cedarbrook Lodge can take a wedding couple’s vision and make it a reality.
Celebrate your wedding, rehearsal dinner, engagement or special occasion in our living room/terrace with amazing views of the San Juan Islands. In-house catering features fresh, local cuisine and friendly staff to create a memorable experience with exceptional service.
A beautiful modern event venue in a historic 20,000 square foot renovated building. Features a grand ballroom, rooftop lounge, restaurant, bar, and tasting room - Bellingham’s best venue for wedding ceremonies, receptions, and celebrations of all kinds.
EVERGR EEN GARDENS
698 W. Pole Road, Ferndale 360/203-6176
eventsateg.com
info@eventsateg.com
Evergreen Gardens is an outdoor venue located in the beautiful Ferndale, WA farming area, dedicated to providing a tranquil and sustainable event space for your event with friends and family. Our 4 acres of lush, landscaped grounds offer an escape beneath the trees for a quintessential Pacific Northwest celebration.
FERNDALE EVENTS CENTER
5715 Barrett Road, Ferndale 360/734-7832
ferndaleeventscenter.com
info@ferndaleeventscenter.com
Looking for the perfect wedding venue? Look no further than the Ferndale Events Center! Our inclusive banquet space offers seating for up to 500 guests, a spacious dance floor, a stage for entertainment, a luxurious platinum bridal suite, and an executive grooms room. The best part? We don’t limit your options when it comes to vendors. Whether you prefer your own caterers or bartenders, the choice is completely yours.
FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON
714 Lakeway Drive, Bellingham 360/671-1011
fourpointsbellingham.com
sales@fourpointsbellingham.com
We offer full catering services. Perfect venue options for rehearsal dinners, brunch and bridal lunches. Ceremonies and receptions all under one roof! Please call us today for a quote or stop by for a visit.
FOUR SPRINGS HOUSE & LAKE PRESERVE
585 Lewis Lane, Camano Island 360/387-1418
fourspringshouse.com fourspringsvenue@gmail.com
Camano Island is a hidden jewel. The natural wooded venue offers a beautiful and versatile setting for the wedding of your dreams. Multiple spaces are available, offering many options for your indoor, garden or lakeside event.
The Edgewater Room offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Whidbey Island. Ideal for hosting wedding rehearsal dinners or intimate family gatherings. Private space for seating up to 35.
Noted as the most scenic wedding destination in the Pacific Northwest, Hotel Bellwether offers luxurious accommodations and first-class amenities. Indoor & outdoor event space for 10 to 400 guests in our Grand Ballroom. 66 guest rooms, including the magical threestory Lighthouse Suite. Full-service catering and hotel staff to cater to your every whim!
Nick Hanyok Imaging
HOTEL LEO
1224 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham 360/746-9097
thehotelleo.com
patrick@thehotelleo.com
The Crystal Ballroom, our signature event space, offers an impressive 3,000 square feet, accommodating up to 180 guests in timeless elegance. Dating back to 1929, the ballroom boasts exquisite details, including two crystal chandeliers and a dazzling mirrored ball. Floorto-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, while the curved ceilings add to its grandeur, creating a setting that’s both historic and breathtaking.
LAGOM VINEYARDS
5535 Hillard Road, Everson 360/319-6832
Lagomvinyards.com
lagomvinyardsllc@gmail.com
Lagom Vineyards is a romantic outdoor venue with scenic vineyard views and rustic intimate ceremony spaces! Discount offered on our wine for on-site events.
LAIRMONT MANOR
405 Fieldston Road, Bellingham 360/647-1444
lairmontmanor.com
info@lairmontmanor.com
Your estate for the day! Lairmont Manor is a familyowned historic landmark estate with remarkable beauty in every direction. Dazzle guests with a celebration to remember at this awe-inspiring Pacific Northwest venue.
TIP:
Give guests the opportunity to send in a song request with their RSVP.
Alder and Pine Photography
LEADER BLOCK TRATTORIA & BAR
2026 Main Street, Ferndale
360/306-8998 or Cell & Text 206/484-9255
leaderblock.com (new website coming soon)
info@leaderblock.com
’23/’24, ’24/’25 “Gold Award Winner” for Best Italian Restaurant in the PNW. Serving authentic Italian Cuisine with an Award Winning Wine List. Gorgeous historic venue with 3 private rooms that accommodates 100+. Specializing in weddings, rehearsals, bachelor/ bridesmaids parties, baby showers, corporate/holiday parties, etc.
LOMBARDI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR - BELLINGHAM
21 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360/540-8214
lombardisitalian.com
banquet@lombardisitalian.com
Lombardi’s Bellingham offers an intimate & stylish atmosphere with spectacular views of Bellingham Bay, paired with authentic Italian cuisine at a variety of prices. This one of a kind setting for your wedding, rehearsal dinner, or special event offers accommodations for 1260 guests.
LOMBARDI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR - EVERETT
1620 W. Marine View Drive, Everett 360/540-8214
lombardisitalian.com banquet@lombardisitalian.com
The Harbor Room offers beautiful waterfront & sunset views featuring fresh ingredients, handmade sauces, and mouth-watering dishes. Accommodating up to 50 guests, providing exceptional Italian cuisine, fine wine, and superlative service for your special event.
LOOMIS TRAIL GOLF
4342 Loomis Trail Road, Blaine 360/332-1725
golfloomis.com
sales@silverreefcasino.com
This scenic golf course venue offers a uniquely elegant Tudor-style clubhouse with full banquet and catering services. Luxurious accommodations available at the Silver Reef Casino Resort with shuttle service to the casino. Serving groups up to 65 guests.
Our lush Garden Courtyard is the ideal location for picturesque wedding ceremonies and The Ballroom is perfect for elegant receptions. With on-site accommodations, full service spa and dining at the popular 5th Street Bistro and Rooftop Lounge, the Majestic Inn and Spa is the perfect backdrop for your once-in-a-lifetime event.
Mystache Photography
Mystache Photography
Mystache Photography
MARYSVILLE OPERA HOUSE
1225 Third Street, Marysville 360/363-8400
marysvillewa.gov/OH dbarstad@marysvillewa.gov
Beautiful two-story historic building accommodates up to 200 guests. Features a magnificent ballroom, charming mezzanine and picturesque balcony, includes a separate bridal cottage and quaint garden area. Open House each first and third Wednesday from 6-8pm (No appointment needed).
MCINTYRE HALL
2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon 360/416-7622
mcintyrehall.org
nida.tautvydas@skagit.edu
Available for weddings and receptions for groups of 75 to 250, offering a beautiful setting, complete catering and bar services, event planning assistance, technical support, free parking and more.
MISTY RIVER WEDDING
5690 North Fork Road, Deming 206/595-3680
mistyriverwedding.com mistyrr@outlook.com
Misty River Ranch is a private working ranch and open air event center. The setting is unique, peaceful and breathtaking. You won’t find a more beautiful, versatile venue for your one of a kind wedding.
Exchange your vows amongst 5 acres of beautiful gardens, gorgeous waterfalls, and our one of a kind heart pond. Surrounded by 15,000 acres of forestland providing an intimate and private outdoor setting for your special day.
NITA LAKE LODGE RESORT & SPA
2131 Lake Placid Road, Whistler, B.C. nitalakelodge.com/weddings sales@nitalakelodge.com
An internationally recognized wedding destination at a MICHELIN Key awarded boutique lodge in Whistler, BC. Dates available for dream weddings surrounded by mountains, lakes, and beautiful architecture. Elevate your love story in Canada.
NORTHWEST MARITIME CENTER
431 Water Street, Port Townsend 360/385-3628 ext. 2 nwmaritime.org info@nwmaritime.org
Make your wedding an unforgettable occasion at our stunning waterfront location. Indoor and outdoor ceremony sites, beach access, and saltwater and mountain views provide the customizable experience you’re looking for on your special day.
Brand new beautiful hotel with a boutique touch! In the perfect location, we offer impeccable service, full onsite catering, and flexible space for your guests. Attractive wedding packages create a memorable experience for every bride.
SAMSON ESTATES WINERY
1861 Van Dyk Road, Everson 360/966-7787 extension 203 samsonestates.com info@samsonestates.com
Just outside Bellingham, Samson Estates offers a stunning event pavilion (300 capacity) surrounded by acres of lush, manicured lawn and botanical gardens. Discount offered on our international, award winning wine for on/off site events.
SEMIAHMOO RESORT
9565 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine 360/318-2000
semiahmoo.com sales@semiahmoo.com
From intimate rehearsal dinners to elaborate seaside ceremonies, Semiahmoo Resort is the ideal destination for your wedding. Our experienced team will support your day down to every detail – your dream starts here.
SHUKSAN GOLF
1500 E. Axton Road, Bellingham 360/398-8888
shuksangolf.com events@shuksangolf.com
Breathtaking, stunning, spectacular…these are just a few words that have been used to describe Shuksan Golf. Let your forever start here. We help make your dream into a reality. Indoors or outdoors, accommodates 250.
Whether you want an intimate Presidential Hotel suite or a large ballroom, Silver Reef offers over 25,000 Square Feet of banquet space, full service catering, 206 luxurious hotel rooms, and a day spa.
Stanley Park Pavilion is a spectacular award-winning wedding and banqueting venue in the world-famous Stanley Park. This heritage venue has been the hub of social gatherings and events for over 100 years. With four distinct venues, the Stanley Park Pavilion is the perfect location to celebrate any occasion.
WHATCOM MUSEUM
121 Prospect Street, Bellingham 360/778-8930
whatcommuseum.org
info@whatcommuseum.org
The Whatcom Museum offers two unique venue settings – the traditional 1892 Old City Hall building or the contemporary Lightcatcher building and galleries for an art-filled backdrop on your special day
Tired of boring, clichéd wedding videos? So are we! No cheesy wedding videos here, let us give you a wedding video you can be proud of and cherish forever. It’s your voice and our video.
WEDDING AND EVENT PLANNERS
F ERNS & FOREVERS
Skagit County
360/770-4957
fernsandforevers.com
chelsea@fernsandforevers.com
At Ferns & Forevers, our mission is to create unforgettable wedding experiences by transforming our clients’ dreams into reality. With a personalized approach, meticulous attention to detail, and a passion for excellence, we provide seamless planning and exceptional service at every step. We strive to ensure that each couple’s special day is a reflection of their unique love story, filled with joy, beauty, and lasting memories.
Nick Hanyok Imaging Mystache Photography
2025 WEDDING SHOWS
Bellingham Winter Wedding Show
Sunday, January 19
Mount Baker Theatre bit.ly/3WjKu57
Marysville Wedding Show
Saturday, January 21
Marysville Opera House marysvillewa.gov/980/MarysvilleWedding-Show
Swank Wedding Show
Saturday, January 25
Cascades Casino, Delta, B.C. swankweddingshow.ca
Woodinville Wedding Show
Sunday, January 26 Venue tour weddingsinwoodinville.com
