Seattle LGBT Wedding Guide

planning guide RainbowWeddingNetwork presents the

Same Love Same Rights速LGBT Wedding Expo

Sunday May 20, 2012 Crowne Plaza Hotel Seattle Produced by: RainbowWeddingNetwork.com

A Welcome Message -from Cindy & Marianne, RWN Founders

Welcome to our 4th Annual Same Love, Same Rights® LGBT Wedding Expo, proudly produced by RainbowWeddingNetwork.com!

CONGRATULATIONS on your upcoming ceremony!

It is our hope that this event Show Guide will make your wedding plans that much easier, providing you with helpful tips as well as immediate access to a variety of screened, LGBT-friendly wedding vendors. For further information about today’s exhibitors & advertisers, visit their websites directly.

We also invite you to check us out online at www.RainbowWeddingNetwork.com – since 2000, we’ve been providing the LGBT community with a diversity of wedding resources and we’ve proudly produced over 65 Gay & Lesbian Wedding Expos in twenty different states throughout the nation. JOIN US as we continue to create a bridge between couples like you and forward-thinking wedding professionals, who uphold a policy of non-discrimination. Again, Congratulations to you & your partner, during this historic time in Washington State!

SEATTLE DOWNTOW N

The Same Love, Same RightsÂŽ Seattle Show Guide 2012 RainbowWeddingNetwork PO Box 17596, Asheville, NC 28816 www.rainbowweddingnetwork.com www.samelovesamerights.com info@rainbowweddingnetwork.com (866) 251-1564, toll free

Published by Jemima Creek Signature Publications, a division of Artistic Ventures, Inc. Copyright Š2012 Artistic Ventures, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of its publisher. This publication, its parent company, subsidiaries and advertisers will not be held responsible for any errors found in this publication.

The publisher accepts no liability for the accuracy of statements made by interviewees or advertisers, nor for the accuracy of photo credits. References to third parties contained within this publication, including but not limited to photographs, advertisers and interviewees does not imply sexual orientation.

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Table of Contents P07 P08

P13 P15 P17 P19 P21 P23 P25 P28 P31 P35 P36 P40 P43 P45 P48 P59

Getting Married in Washington State Directory of Preferred LGBT-friendly Wedding Professionals Today’s Exhibitors... and more!

Bands, DJs & Music Couples Spotlight: Brian & Ron Beauty & Health Couples Spotlight: Lisa & Gretchen Cakes & Desserts Caterers & Beverages Traditions & Rituals Event Consultants & Designers Florals & Floral Symbolism Intimates Gift Ideas Photographers & Videographers Couples Spotlight: Dean & Gary Rentals & DĂŠcor Venues Couples Spotlight: Jay & Angel

Marriage Logistics | p7

Getting MARRIED in Washington State On February 13, 2012, Governor Gregoire signed Bill SB 6239 into law, bringing marriage equality to the state of Washington.

Same-gender couples may begin to wed in June of this year, unless opponents gain enough valid signatures for a referendum (by June 6th), which would bring the issue to a general vote in November.

Until that time, it is recommended that couples keep themselves informed about the issue, as well as about the logistics of filing for a marriage license. Specific instructions will be posted online through government agencies as to where & how couples may access a license; in the meantime, these links provide helpful information: h t t p : / / w w w. e q u a l rig h t swa s h i n g t o n. org/?page_id=280 http://blogs.sos.wa.gov/FromOurCorner/ index.php/2012/02/faq-on -pendinggaymarriage-referendum http://access.wa.gov/living/resources/

p 8 |Preferred LGBT-Friendly Wedding Professionals

Preferred LGBT-Friendly Wedding Professionals Today’s exhibitors & additional select companies from throughout the Seattle metro area, ready to assist you & your partner in creating the Ceremony of Your Dreams!

Belltown Bride Designer Bridal Boutique 2505 Fourth Avenue Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 443-2050 melissa@belltownbride.com www.belltownbride.com

Cave B Inn & Spa 344 Silica Road NW Quincy, WA 98848 (509) 785-CAVE (2283) ignacio.medina@cavebinn.com info@cavebinn.com www.cavebinn.com

Capriccio Catering, Event Planning & Floral Services Let us assist you with all your wedding needs, so you can enjoy your day.

1700 SE Mile Hill Drive #116 Port Orchard, WA 98366 (360) 769-2356 desiree@makeitspecialparties.com www.capricciocatering.com

Cedarbrook Lodge Quintessentially Northwest 18525 36th Avenue South Seattle, WA 98188 (206) 901-9268 tjohnson@cedarbrooklodge.com info@cedarbrooklodge.com www.cedarbrooklodge.com ♼ Denotes Event Sponsor

Preferred LGBT-Friendly Wedding Professionals | p 9

CMS Floral Dream it, Believe it, Achieve it with CMS Floral Design.

819 S. 226th Place Des Moines, WA 98198 (206) 824-8890 cmsfloraldesign@aol.com www.cmsfloraldesign.com Crowne Plaza Seattle ♥ Serenity finds you from the moment you and your family enter our lobby.

1113 6th Avenue Seattle, WA 98101 (206) 676-3921 (800) 521-2762, toll-free kstraight@cphotelseattle.com www.cphotelseattle.com Dani Weiss Photography Fun and playful documentary style photography.

25 years as a professional photographer.

(206) 760-3336 dani@daniweissphotography.com www.daniweissphotography.com

A Day For You Weddings Let us do everything needed to make your wedding... the wedding of your dreams!

(253) 677-5293 susan@adayforyouweddings.com adayforyouweddings@msn.com www.adayforyouweddings.com Design Perfect Catering A truly great event doesn’t just happen, it’s planned.

12842 NE 15th Place Bellevue, WA 98005 (425) 467-8129 orders@dpcatering.com www.dpcatering.com Dudley Manlove Quartet (206) 355-4417 info@dudleymanlove.com booking@dudleymanlove.com www.dudleymanlove.com Dynamic Designs Jewelry Kirkland Showroom by Appointment (425) 827-7722 jessie@dynamicdesignsjewelry.com www.dynamicdesignsjewelry.com

p 10 |Preferred LGBT-Friendly Wedding Professionals

Emerald Downs 2300 Emerald Downs Drive Auburn, WA 98001 (253) 288-7000 (253) 288-7704 ashleym@emeralddowns.com www.emeralddowns.com Equal Rights Washington ♥ Statewide LGBT advocacy organization working for marriage equality (206) 324-2570 doug@equalrightswashington.org www.equalrightswashington.org The Golf Club at Newcastle Beautiful views, contemporary service, and a customized perfect day.

15500 Six Penny Lane Newcastle, WA 98059 (425) 793-4690 queries@newcastlegolf.com erikf@newcastlegolf.com www.newcastlegolf.com

Green Apple Events & Catering We take care of everything so you feel like a guest at your own party!

11929 124th Avenue NE Kirkland, WA 98034 (206) 755-9575 kbrown@greenappleec.com www.greenappleec.com Jones Soda Co. Your Wedding, your Photo, your Soda… the magic of MyJones.

1000 1st Avenue South - Suite 100 Seattle, WA 98134 (206) 624-3357; (206) 436-8756 scapurro@jonessoda.com bharwood@jonessoda.com www.jonessoda.com Karl’s Bakery and Cafe Karl’s Bakery creates scratch wedding cakes, cupcakes, and provides full service catering for your event.

2814 Wetmore Avenue Everett, WA 98201 (425) 252-1774 contact@karls-bakery.com www.karls-bakery.com

Preferred LGBT-Friendly Wedding Professionals | p 11

Kiana Lodge Sophisticated elegance in classic Northwest Style 14976 Sandy Hook Road NE Poulsbo, WA 98370 (206) 282-4633; (360) 598-4311 pamela@kianalodge.com nancy@kianalodge.com www.kianalodge.com www.clearwatercasino.com Macy’s Inc. 1601 Third Avenue Seattle, WA 98181 (206) 506-5646 (206) 462-0558 sherine.woodey@macys.com www.macys.com/registry Marci Jewelry 1048 116th Avenue NE, Suite 140 Bellevue, WA 98004 (425) 455-4561 (425) 455-4567 info@marcijewelry.com john@marcijewelry.com www.marcijewelry.com

Mike’s Amazing Cakes You won’t believe it’s a cake!

4134 148th Avenue NE Redmond, WA 98052 (425) 869-2992 cakes@mikesamazingcakes.com www.mikesamazingcakes.com Ray’s Boathouse Catering Seattle’s Seafood Celebration 6049 Seaview Avenue NW Seattle, WA 98107 (206) 789-6309 x216 rayscatering@rays.com amystevens@rays.com www.rays.com Red Fish Blue Fish Photography 22605 40th Place West Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (425) 670-2018 jennifer@redfishphoto.com scott@redfishphoto.com www.redfishphoto.com

p 12 |Preferred LGBT-Friendly Wedding Professionals

The Ruins The Ruins is a private dining club in Lower Queen Anne with catering available to the public 570 Roy Street Seattle, WA 98109 (206) 285-RUIN info@theruins.net www.theruins.net Seattle Gay News ♥ Seattle’s LGBT News & Entertainment Weekly (206) 324-4297; (206) 322-7188 sgn2@sgn.org srcastrata@yahoo.com www.sgn.org Timeless Weddings Classic Embroidered and Monogrammed Veils, Pillows, Linens, Handkerchiefs, Gifts and More!

(360) 805-4678 debbie@timeless-weddings.com www.etsy.com/shop/theturnbulls Wave Link Music, Inc. ♥ Your Music, Your Way! (425) 771-1167 brian@wavelinkmusic.com www.wavelinkmusic.com

A Wedding by Natalie Fobes Photography (206) 937-9375 natalie@fobesphoto.com natalie@aweddingbynatalie.com www.aweddingbynatalie.com Wendy Waltz Photography (206) 414-1774 wendy@wendywaltz.com www.wendywaltz.com The Woodmark Hotel Breathtaking views of Lake Washington, the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains 1200 Carillon Point Kirkland, WA 98033 (425) 803-5596 (800) 822-3700 jdavison@destinationhotels.com www.thewoodmark.com/weddings

Bands, DJs

&

Music

Consider the charisma & charm a DJ, band or classical ensemble will add to your celebration! It’s your party... the soundtrack is all up to you!

• • • •

DJ Emcee – assistance with introductions, cake-cutting ceremony, first dance, toasts, announcements Ensemble or Soloist - ceremony music, cocktail receptions Dance Band - for that personal energy & fun Other Services - Uplighting, Photo Booths, Party Games

Photos Š Rubin Photography

&

Brian Ron

A Grand Ceremony @ Historic Theatre Colors: Black & White, along with burgundy, blue & gold to match the theatre color scheme. Furniture & tablecloths were white to add stark contrast.

Number of Guests: 160 Wedding Party: Officiant – Brian’s twin brother ‘Best Man & Best Woman’ – 2 friends stood alongside each of the grooms Families took active part during ceremony as ushers, handing things out, offering readings... “We included our families not just for the guests to see them participating, but truly for our families’ sake – so they’d get it that yes, we’re all in this together.”

Windsong Classical Trio Extraordinary weddings. The perfect music.

A prominent trio in the greater Seattle area, Windsong Trio provides light classical, contemporary, rock and pop background music. Windsong musicians are chosen for their superb musicianship, their talent in creating a great ensemble sound and, for their individual commitment to the details that will make your event a beautiful success.

“Voted best ceremony musicians Seattle Bride magazine 2006-2011” 253-941-2540 www.windsongtrio.com Find us on Facebook: Windsong-Classical-Trio

The grooms envisioned a Casablancathemed wedding, and searched for weeks to find authentic vintage tuxes. Guests were encouraged to also wear attire from the 1930’s and 40’s.

“There was not a conventional sit-down dinner, instead it unfolded like a five-hour cocktail party. ...Lots of drinking and dancing!”

Special Customs: The grooms shared bread, salt and vodka as part of a Polish tradition, honoring Brian’s heritage. Korean Wedding Ducks, in honor of Ron’s heritage, were presented to the couple, symbolizing loyalty, fidelity and happiness.

Do you feel different now, after the ceremony?

Brian: “I do. It’s subtle, but it’s a very big thing. It still feels weird to me, to call Ron ‘my husband.’ When I mention it, the word stops people; it takes a minute to register. ‘Oh, your husband...’ But then they’re okay.”

Tips for Other Couples: Brian: “Make sure you have a video camera! And consider getting a friend to do the video. –People will not be shy to tell them everything, so your video will be really personal!”

Ron: “Stay true to yourselves. It’s worth it to make sure that every element of your wedding means something important to you, as a couple.”

Beauty

&

Health

Fitness has always been an important aspect of the gay lifestyle. And it’s intrinsic as you prepare for your wedding! Besides helping you feel as attractive as you can be on Your Special Day, exercise and health awareness help with stress reduction and ongoing well-being... for today, and for your future together. Investing time now for such indulgences also sets a foundation for an ongoing commitment to taking care of yourself.

Cosmetics, massage, spa treatments and beauty enhancement are also a wonderful way to pamper yourself and to accent your best features for the wedding. And today’s health and beauty professionals are experienced in caring for women as well as men... butches as well as femmes.

Treat yourself and highlight all your beauty, inside & out!

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All Healthy Bride programs provide you with world class workouts to get you the results you are looking for. Make your special day even EHWWHU E\ ORRNLQJ ÀW WULP DQG VH[\ LQ \RXU gorgeous dress or your hand-tailored suit!

&

Lisa Gretchen

Garden Ceremony @ Winery Colors: White

Sage

Green

&

Upon arrival, guests were offered beverages or cocktails.

“We wanted everyone to mingle and then sit & enjoy the ceremony. We wanted them to arrive and from the very first moment – to celebrate. It really worked because even before the ceremony, people were laughing, smiling and really upbeat.”

p 20 |Lisa & Gretchen

Personal Touches:

• • • • •

Officiant collected stories about the couple and wove them into the ceremony Butterfly Release The DJ invited requests from all the guests, young & old Local wedding vendors, incl. organic flowers Brides hand-painted small rocks as ceremony keepsakes

Tips for Other Couples: “Ask yourselves how you want people to feel from the moment they step foot into the event, and think about the kind of atmosphere you want to create for yourselves and for your guests.”

Wedding Party: Both Brides escorted by their fathers Ringbearer: Lisa’s grandmother Bridesmaids: Gretchen’s daughters & Lisa’s sisters

“Ours wasn’t a wedding where everyone was happy and joyous. It wasn’t like when a straight couple announces their engagement – coming out was hard for both of us and we had to talk to our families and see how everyone would feel... Be yourself during the planning process, have humility and keep open lines of communication. It can be a growth opportunity for all of your family relationships if you want it to be.”

Event Photos courtesy: Sarah Maren Photography www.sarahmarenphotography.com

Cakes

&

Desserts

A variety of delightful temptations awaits! Cookie trays, custom ice cream bars, luscious pies & pastries created with local organics...

Many gay & lesbian couples today are choosing to indulge their guests with more than one decadent treat at the reception. And now more than ever, wedding cakes have become the culmination of the ceremony theme: in color, flavor and creative design. From classic to outrageous, each cake can be as unique as the couple who enjoys it!

&

Caterers

Beverages

Today’s couples are savvy & selective when it comes to the reception menu.

Take your time and sample an array of caterers’ selections, and we suggest trying a new ethnic style, wine or chef’s signature recipe before you make your final choice on the faire and beverages. Communication is key with your catering or beverage company: be sure to choose what is best for the party you wish to create. Simple hors d’ouevres, food stations, a full sit-down dinner... Signature wine, champagne, martini bar... it’s important to discuss all that’s available!

&

Traditions & Rituals | p25

Traditions Rituals Adding those special touches to your ceremony

ncorporating meaningfulness and a sense of the sacred into your ceremony can be quite easy! Many couples are excited to include traditions that parents or other special family members may have used within their own weddings. Other brides and grooms-to-be choose faith-based rituals that are particularly symbolic. And others ask their officiant for thoughts and ideas, during the planning process. Personalizing these special moments will certainly help make your wedding day that much more authentic and meaningful, for you & your partner, as well as for your guests. These intimate rituals provide a sense of the commitment you’re entering into on this wonderful day; they also offer a sense of the marriage you’re creating into the future.

Pouring of the Sand

Each partner chooses a particular color of sand in advance; these are prepared and await in small containers near the altar or with the officiant. During the ceremony, the couple pours their individual collection of

sand together into one larger vase, creating a symbolic union of their independent lives as they become one. Allowing children of either or both partners to participate in this ritual is a touching way to include them in the creation of this new commitment within the family.

A unity bowl may be used instead of sand, in which colored marbles are placed into a bowl or vase. The couple, their children, parents and any other chosen family members or friends are invited to participate. This symbolizes the involvement of the entire family circle in supporting the marriage. The filled bowl is then kept in the couple’s home.

Handfasting

This tradition dates back to Old Europe (many cite the Celts), and was often used for the betrothal, prior to the actual marriage. Today, many traditions incorporate this ritual in some form during the wedding ceremony. It can be altered somewhat as best suits the couple’s particular beliefs.

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Very simply, the officiant leads with an introduction of the handfasting and then wraps a cord around the brides’ or grooms’ hands, signifying their unity on this, their wedding day.

In many traditions, the officiant will fasten the hands with the cord belted around his or her own waist, or a scarf he or she is wearing. This symbolizes the inclusion and blessing of God or a Higher Power within the union.

The cord used may be a wonderful keepsake! It can be handmade by the couple

themselves, a special friend, or many can be purchased through a specialty company such as www. gaiashandfasting.com.

Jumping of the Broom Sweeping away the welcoming the new!

old,

This tradition began in Africa, but its original meaning has been somewhat lost, particularly due to the association of the ritual during the time of slavery.

Traditions & Rituals | p27

Originations may be based on the broom’s shape itself: the top representing the group of the wedding party or village, somewhat scattered, and the handle of the broom representing the Almighty, who binds all together. During the time of slavery, the unions between African Americans were not considered legally binding; the symbolic ‘jumping of the broom’ connected couples with their African heritage and helped legitimize their commitment on a deeper, spiritual level and, within their own community, thus sanctioned the relationship.

This of course translates quite naturally to the commitments today between gay & lesbian partners, and is a particularly meaningful tradition that honors the past and calls in the sacredness of the marriage in a way that seems timeless.

The Red Rose Ceremony

At the closing of the wedding, some couples enjoy a simple exchange of festive red roses.

This moment accents “the first gift” and, being roses, symbolizes that each partner is once again stating their love for the other. It can be quite a beautiful and heartfelt exchange.

Butterfly Release

According to an American Indian legend, when making a wish, one must whisper the message in secret to a butterfly. Key to the story is the freeing of the butterfly, so that it is enabled to reach the Great Spirit and pass along the hopeful message. The Great Spirit, glad that the butterfly has been freed, always grants the wish.

As the wedding party gathers to witness the butterfly release on behalf of a special couple, they are reminded that in fact all wishes taken to heaven in this way shall be granted. With this confidence and light-spirited joy for the newlyweds, all ceremony guests are invited to make their wishes (either silently or aloud) and the butterflies are set free.

&

Event Consultants

Designers

Many couples contemplate planning their entire ceremony & reception by themselves, or think of asking a friend or family member to help out with some of the details. Is this your best option? Consider this: Event consultants can actually save you time during the planning process, because of their experience, their referrals, their objectivity in envisioning ‘the big picture’ of your wedding day. They may also be able to save you money, given their extended network of contacts in the industry, and their insights about the in’s and out’s of event planning. Consultants also have an abundance of amazing ideas, to help your event flow smoothly and to bring additional flair & polish to the celebration. So it’s always a smart recommendation to check in with several event designers about their services as you begin the process of planning Your Special Day. You may realize there’s one consultant in particular who’s just what you need to create the ceremony of your dreams, with even greater ease & peace of mind!

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Florals Florals add so much to your celebration! The welcoming and memorable fragrances, the color highlights, the organic beauty.

Express yourself with a spectrum of lush shapes, sizes, contrasts and vibrant simplicity!

Through the ages, many have bestowed meanings to particular flowers.

Sources will disagree on the specifics, but it’s often fun to consider these various traits as they may apply to your floral selections! We’ve listed several on the following page - plenty more can be found online or through your floral designer.

Floral Symbolism

Agrimony/Canterbury Bells: thankfulness Aster: contentment, trust Carnation: fascination, deep love Cinnamon: love & beauty

Peach Blossom: generosity, wedded hope, longevity Rose, Red: happy love, desire, respect, courage Rose, Coral/Orange: enthusiasm, desire, passion

Crane's-bill/Wild Geranium/Lavender/ Rosemary: constancy, gentleness

Rose, red & white together: united

Dahlia: elegance & dignity

Stock: bonds of affection, ‘you will always be beautiful to me’

Daisy: cheer, simplicity, pure love Forget-me-not: faithful love, forever-memories Iris: good luck Ivy: friendship, enduring love, dependence Jasmine, White: amiability & cheerfulness Scarlet Lily: higher aspirations Lily of the Valley: returning happiness Myrtle: love, mirth & joy

Snowdrop: hope

Sunflower: devotion, lofty thoughts Tulip, Red: believe me, declaration of love Violet: modesty & simplicity Viscaria: ‘will you dance with me?’

Winged Seeds: messengers Wheat: prosperity Zinnia: thoughts of absent friends Zinnia, Pink: lasting affection

Nest

flights of fancy

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Intimates Planning and anticipating your Wedding Day can be filled with many stressors: budget issues, time constraints, overwhelming details, family dynamics. It’s important to keep in mind that this is also your special time for being engaged, and that deserves your attention as well!

Keeping the spark in your relationship during the engagement can be easy (and of course fun) – it simply requires that you make it a priority.

Relax, take a break from the ceremony plans... indulge in the romance!

And remember, too, that adding something a little extra or unexpected to your Honeymoon Plans can also be a wonderful way to surprise your Sweetie!

p 36 |Gift Ideas

Gift Ideas that are

HOT, HOT, HOT!

by Susan Hart Hellman contributing writer

f t e n , choosing the perfect gift for brides and grooms can be difficult. However, the vendors below offer you some unique and creative choices, to assure that yours will be among the couple’s most treasured gifts.

Beekman 1802 “Year in the Country Gift Set,” provides a new gift soap every month for a year.

The Goats of Beekman 1802 Several years ago, two city dwellers, Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Brent Ridge, now fondly known as “the Beekman Boys,” purchased a 200-plus year-old farm, Beekman 1802, near Sharon Spring, New York. Their livestock included a herd of goats, and Josh

even Beekman Baby.

and Brent decided to make goatmilk soap.

But that endeavor r a p i d l y expanded to also include b e a u t y products, gourmet f o o d s , clothing, home and g a r d e n designs, and

One of those products, the “Year in the Country Gift Set,” provides a new gift for the newlyweds every month for a year.

Each of the dozen bars of Beekman 1802 is handmade from the farm’s free-grazing

For Your Pleasure I am a romance party consultant and would love to come to your home or event and organize a party for you. We do bachelor(ette) parties, bridal/groom showers, spa parties – you name it! It is a FUN, discreet, and comfortable way to add some spice to your love life. In addition to adult novelty products and lingerie, we sell many brands of spa products including Shunga, Intimate Organics and our new signature FYP line. We offer discreet ordering and shipping, online ordering and home parties. Look for ‘For Your Pleasure Parties – Puget Sound Area’ on Facebook. When you LIKE us and book a party you will receive a free gift.

(206) 992-0349 PO Box 32 • Bellevue, WA • 98009 www.foryourpleasure.net/FYP_TAS goats, and each bar incorporates a favorite scent representing the particular season, such as a January pine forest.

The March scent is new grass; July, herb garden (thyme, mint, and other herbs); October, apple wood; December, warm cookies, and seasonal scents for the other months as well.

galvanized metal top designed to complement the roof on Beekman 1802 barn. The Beekman award-winning blacksmith then hand-embosses each lid.

(Contact Beekman

1802 Mercantile 518.284.6039.)

Honeymoon,

by Rovia For a very different wedding gift, think “upgrade,” “day spa,” or “golf-clubs.” Those are just a few of the many wedding gift choices you’ll have for

The view from one of Rovia’s most popular honeymoon destinations, Garden Terrace at Curtain Bluff Antiqua.

The elegant packaging is a big part of the gift, a hand-crafted cedar box with a

at

p 38 |Gift Ideas

the happy couple registered with Rovia Travel’s Honeymoon Registry.

Gay Martin, a Rovia Leisure Travel Consultant, explains Rovia as a site where a couple can register for air travel, a rental car, even villas and condos. And, couples can request all the “extras” such as accommodation upgrades, a couple’s massage or entire day at a spa, a bottle of fine wine, a game of golf and even golf club rental. “It’s like if a couple registered for gifts at a department store,” Gay explains. “You can pay for anything you want for them, like a dinner, or just put money toward the honeymoon in general.”

Candle-licious gift baskets with assorted candles and room sprays, ready to pack up for the honeymoon.

So, if the couple is not already registered, you’ll want to encourage them to do so, so wedding guests can start making their purchases. Rovia makes it easy, even offering them a wedding website, blog, and photo album, and the opportunity to send you and other wedding guests announcements about the gifts they choose. (Contact Gay

Martin at gaymartin3@aol.com, or Rovia at 858.433.1506.)

so started out making them in our kitchen for ourselves.” Soon, friends were asking for them too, then Dave progressed to craft shows. “Before you knew it, I was doing this on the side in addition to my fulltime job.”

Finally he decided to put 100% of his time into the endeavor, and today, his company, Candle-licious, offers numerous wedding gift choices, including gift baskets with assortments of candles and room sprays, which Dave says couples like to take on their honeymoon.

Delicious (smelling) Candle-licious This company got its start because owner Dave Stedman and family love candles. “We just love to burn candles, love the fragrance,

Candle-licious offers baskets with jar candles, tea lights, extra-long candle matches, melters, and other products, and the choices don’t stop there. Different fragrances may be

Gift Ideas| p 39

mixed and matched within any basket also, and Dave says favorites include Lily of the Valley, Japanese Cherry Blossom, and Lilac in the Florals; Rain and Hinoki Wood for outdoor scents; and Moroccan Spice and Black Pepper.

And, for the brides’ or grooms’ gifts to attendants and guests, Candle-licious can provide candles featuring personalized labels with the couple’s names and wedding date. (Contact Candle-licious at 800.880.9852.)

For the wine-loving couple, Pro Kitchen Gear’s Vinturi Red Wine Aerator makes an ideal gift.

Pro Gifts from Pro Kitchen Gear Whether the brides or grooms you’ll be buying for are chef-quality gourmets, gourmet wanna-be’s, or just people who love to cook, a professional quality gift from Pro Kitchen Gear is meant to please. The

selection is designed for foodies, according to owner Dave McCormick, who quips that he is a self trained chef, still attending the Food Network “university.”

Dave says you really can’t go wrong with a Pro Kitchen purchase, because you can go very generic with gifts that most people use, for instance a Peugeot Paris classic salt and pepper mill, or Berard olive wood cook spoons or servers.

Or, gift-buyers can go specific. For instance, for the wine-loving couple, the Vinturi Red Wine Aerator is one of Dave’s most popular items. The Vinturi’s design increases wine’s velocity and decreases its pressure, drawing in air, which mixes with the wine. It also facilitates the natural aromas, enhances taste, and softens tannins for a smoother finish. “It’s great,” Dave says. “It does the job of letting the wine sit for two hours, in just a few seconds.” (Contact Pro Kitchen Gear at 877.776.6070.)

Susan Hart Hellman is a freelance writer based in California, www.susanharthellman.com

&

Photographers

Videographers

Imagine those timeless images on the walls of your home...

Envision you and your forever-sweetheart (perhaps with kids at your side?) lounging together on the couch, ten years into the future, as you watch the beautiful film of your wedding day. Love... captured eternally in photos & video. What a wonderful gift to yourselves!

And remember, the many ways photo & video services will enhance your celebration as well as your future: • Engagement Portraits • Keepsake Images (for wine or chocolate labels, mini-albums for special ceremony guests) • Your Wedding Webpage or Blog – an easy way to share the details of your planning process or honeymoon adventures!

• Honeymoon Portraits

Dean & Gary | p43

Dean

& Gary

Legal at Last!

Having held a Holy Union ceremony in 2004, Dean & Gary planned on a simple courthouse appearance to wed before a judge once the marriage legislation was enacted in Iowa in 2009.

Friends, however, urged them to consider a more celebratory ceremony, and as the couple began indulging in formal planning, they began to agree, but for an even deeper reason than the celebration.

“If one young man or woman attending, who has been told by society, church or even family that they are ‘less than,’ could come away from our ceremony with a hope for the future, a hope that includes love, companionship and recognition that they too are of value, then we’ve been successful.

Our day became a day of Marriage Equality Celebration.”

Personal Touches: The grooms created a 27-page program, sharing the story of their lives before they met, including many of the hardships of being closeted. Having

Jenny GG Photography - gay girl with camera I simply love weddings — small weddings with just your closest friends and family or big weddings with everyone you know — I love them all, and I love finding the uniquely sweet moments that appear throughout the day. My approach to your wedding is playful, fun and unposed. I’m all about the candid aspects of your day, but will love to take you and your partner out in a field or to an alley downtown for portraits too. I’m not a photographer with a lot of “rules” about what I will or won’t photograph — it’s YOUR wedding!

I believe my job is to show your awesomeness.

Jenny GG (425) 830.4421 jennygg@mac.com jennygg.com been raised in very conservative families, both men had been told in their youth that being gay was not an option. Their attempts to build lives for themselves in trying to conform led to serious heartache, shame & fear. Their destined chance meeting led to love & a long journey ensued as both of the men came-out to friends, family, coworkers, their church and community members.

Officiated by Rev. Mel White, whose book ‘Stranger at the Gate – to be Gay and Christian in America’ was so meaningful to the grooms Ceremony Music included performances by the Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus

Venue: Music Man Square, a 1912 River City Streetscape Guest Count: 400 Florals: Tulips, Roses, Daisies, Irises, in rainbow colors Casual Dining: Gourmet ham, turkey & roast beef tortilla snack wraps, fresh fruit bouquets, lemon-limeade slush, wine bar Favorite Quote from the Happy Couple: “Cherish this moment!”

Event Photos courtesy: Matthew H. Smith / 701.320.1599 www.mattyfactory.com

Rentals

&

Décor

Add style and flair to your event! Décor specialists are experts at polishing all aspects of Your Special Day. Current trends include vintage plateware for the reception... potted plants for décor instead of cut flowers... interactive artwork so that your guests may help to create a lasting keepsake... long banquet tables for the sit-down dinner, family-style... fun food vans or dessert carts... seating card “trees”... and much, much more!

It’s worth setting time aside to sit down for a planning session with your linen, décor or rental professional: many of the resources now available are sure to “wow,” and you may not be aware of the variety of unique options.

April Greer Studio

AAPARTY.COM

Venues Limitless Variety! -In many ways, this is what best describes your options when considering which location will best suit your upcoming wedding and reception.

• • • • • • • • •

Welcoming Churches, Synagogues & other places of worship Hotels B&Bs, Inns Resorts, Event Centers, Restaurants Yachts, Boat Charters Historic Locations Museums, Zoos, Botanical Gardens Private Homes Public Parks, Beaches

Remember, many facilities provide an array of extra services, such as basic party coordination and referrals (often with discounts!) to many preferred vendors. It’s always best to follow-up directly with referrals, just to be sure they are in fact comfortable with serving gay & lesbian couples respectfully.

Spectacular Destination Pristine Nature Organic Seasonal Cuisine 28 Luxurious Rooms Indoor & Outdoor Wedding Venues

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SAY “ I DO” AT THE ZOO! Seattle’s most cherished community resource is the perfect setting for wedding ceremonies, receptions and rehearsal dinners.

For event planning call 206.548.2590 or email groupsales@ zoo.org

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Matt Shumate Photography (top left & top center); Lancer Catering (top right); Winnie Forbes Photography (center); Dennis Conner, WPZ (bottom)

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Jay

& Angel

Beachfront Celebration!

Jay & Angel met online and neither had planned on a long-term relationship at that time in their lives. However, it was obvious quickly as they began dating, that they were meant for each other.

“We’re actually complete opposites,” Jay explains. “That’s one of the things I like about our relationship... Angel and I complete each other.”

Colors: Coral and Pool Blue Special Rituals: Unity Candle Ceremony & Jumping of the Broom Guest Count: 40

p 62 |Jay & Angel

Personal Touches: Angel handmade all floral arrangements (with faux flowers), as well as the caketopper, monogram and other decorative elements Cake Flavors: 2 tier – vanilla w/ strawberry filling & yellow w/ buttercream A Beachside Ceremony: The couple was a little nervous about having the ceremony so publicly, but they had dreamed of a beachside wedding.

“I was worried someone might yell out a mean comment,” says Angel. “But people we didn’t even know were taking our photos and many of the people along the beach were cheering as the event went on, especially after the jumping of the broom.” Jay laughs, “The extra attention was kind of a treat, like having paparazzi!”

Vows: “I choose you as my best friend and my soulmate. I vow to love, cherish and support you through sickness and health, through the good and the bad, for richer and poorer.

You are everything I need, and at this moment I know that all my prayers have been answered and that all of my dreams have come true. This is the moment I have waited my whole life for. I promise to give you my all and I know that I could not ask for more from you. I will love you always and forever. This is my solemn vow.”

Tips for Other Couples: Jay & Angel chose a Thursday evening for their ceremony date; the offpeak scheduling with the reception venue helped out with their budget!

“Planning is a lot of stress and hard work, but don’t let the guests or wedding party stress you out. In the end it’ll all be worth it!”

Event Photos courtesy Todd Gilman Photography

Since 2000... Your Trusted LGBT Wedding Resource!

Honeymoon Registry â—? Wedding Webpages â—? Gay-Friendly Wedding Vendors National Tour of LGBT Wedding Expos

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Where serenity and acceptance greets you and your loved ones every time you walk through our doors.

1113 6th Avenue Seattle, WA 98101 206-676-3921 or kstraight@cphotelseattle.com