WEDDINGS A PUBLICATION BY SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE
SERVING SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY
SPRING 2014
24Fabulous LOCAL WEDDINGS
SPRING 2014
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
a special publication of San Joaquin Magazine
YOUR LOCAL WEDDING PLANNING & RESOURCE GUIDE
The Only Place for your
Perfect Wedding Day.
PHOTO: BRIGGS PHOTOGRAPHY
The Waterfront Hotel is a beautifully designed venue for all your types of wedding events. It’s ideal for formal, high-end elegant weddings and unique, relaxed, informal celebrations. The Waterfront Hotel allows you to create the atmosphere that’s just right for all your wedding day events. Have your wedding at the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel just the way you dreamed.
DREAM WEDDING GIVEAWAY WIN YOUR 2014 WEDDING WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 19, 2014
VIP 6:00 PM - GENERAL 6:30 PM VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT:
WWW.UNIVERSITYPLAZAWATERFRONTHOTEL.COM FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
110 West Fremont Street l Stockton, CA 95202
209.944.1140 Facebook.com/UniversityPlazaWaterfrontHotel Twitter@UniPlazaWatrFrnt UNIVERSITYPLAZA 2 San Joaquin Weddings I Covering San Joaquin County
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
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G A R D E N B A L L R O O M • I N T I M AT E C E L L A R R O O M • W E D D I N G G A R D E N S & PAT I O S
Wine & Roses has the picture-perfect venues to make your wedding dreams a reality. We can accommodate up to 350 guests. We offer award-winning creative cuisine, exceptional service, luxurious hotel rooms & suites, full service resort spa with preparatory and bridal services & unique gifts, and a private bride’s changing room. We welcome you to visit our beautiful grounds at any time. If you are interested in receiving pricing and date availability, schedule an appointment with one of our wedding sales managers.
C O N T A C T 2 0 9 . 3 7 1 . 6 1 1 7 O R E M A I L sales@winerose.com W I N E & R O S E S • 2 5 0 5 W. T U R N E R R O A D , L O D I , C A L I F O R N I A 9 5 2 4 2 Spring 2014
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SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE’S
MEDIA SPONSOR
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
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For your Perfect day...
Bridal Hair & Make Up Packages • Bachelorette & Bridal Parties Couples Massage • Spray Tan • Bridal Nail Services Facials • Waxing 401 West Pine Street, Lodi (209) 333-8117 • perfectbalancedayspa.com Flowers By: Woodbridge Florist · Photo By: Rochelle Lippert · Hair and Makeup by: Perfect Balance Day Spa
HARMONY
WYNELANDS WINERY Elegant Settings
Stunning gardens and a charming tasting room is located among the attractive scenery.
Unforgettable Events
The most discerning brides will fall in love with our remarkable venue.
Attentive Service
Allow our professional staff to guide you in creating an event that is a true reflection of your distinctive style.
Inspiring Surroundings
Harmony Wynelands adds a touch of understated sophistication and inspired elegance to your special day.
209.369.4184
9291 E. Harney Lane, Lodi, CA 95240 www.harmonywynelands.com
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Indulge in Life’s Pleasures
Covering San Joaquin County
TUXEDO RENTALS | GIFT GALLERY & BRIDAL REGISTRY
FREE GROOM PROGRAM
Randall’s Fine Clothing & Gifts For Men & Women
30 Downtown Mall | Lodi | 209.368.2575 Open Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
“When I fall in love... It will be Forever.” DJ/MC | PHOTO BOOTH | CUSTOM MONOGRAMS | LED UP-LIGHTING
209.952.3548 | WWW.ELITEDJ4U.COM Spring 2014
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THE
FARMHOUSE
This luxurious property, encompassing over 20 acres, including a serene pond, fountains, and park-like setting is ideally located less than 1 mile west of March Lane. With lush landscaping and weeping willow trees blowing in the breeze, These majestic grounds are convenient for weddings, corporate events, fund raisers, or any special occasion . Our picturesque outdoor setting will be perfect whether you are hosting 25 or 1000 guests.
Stockton’s Newest Venue | by appointment only | 209.227.4802 | Stockton, CA 95219 | lincolnfarmhouse@yahoo.com
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MORRIS CHAPEL On the beautiful campus of the University of the Pacific
There are still plenty of openings to book your 2014 wedding at Morris Chapel.
Call for information and a personal tour. Call 209.946.2538 3601 Pacific Ave. • Stockton
Stand out with something special! Special Bridal gift When a bride books w/a deposit by march 1st.($40 Value)
10% off Any linen rental.
• Extraordinary selection of specialty overlays and linens on site, & custom overlays available of your choosing, by our professional on site seamstress.
design & rental company
• Fresh and silk floral design centerpieces and arrangements, bridal party & brides floral needs (bouquets) Kissing balls ect.
creating for you.
• Large rental inventory of all your weddings needs, I.e Vases, mirrors, candles, and holders.
209-552-5969
• Beautifully crafted wood columns. arches, aisle stands large cupcake stand (service for up to 500 cupcakes) ect.
it’s what we do!
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Brodie Jayne’s Photography
You’ve been waiting for this day ever since you were a little girl!
110 S. Church Street • Lodi, CA 95240
209.333.8863 www.brodiejayne.com
The Heirloom Inn A HIDDEN TREASURE IN THE LOWER SIERRA FOOTHILLS
EXQUISITE...AFFORDABLE...ELEGANT GARDEN WEDDING VENUE FOR YOUR WEDDING CEREMONY & RECEPTION
214 SHAKELEY LANE, IONE, CA 95640 | 209.274.4468 or 209.217.6834 SHERRY@THEHEIRLOOMINN.COM | WWW.THEHEAIRLOOMINN.COM
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GOLD WINNER OF
201 3
BEST
SAN JOAQUIN M A G A Z I N E
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Kris M. Colwell, Owner bellafestas.com 209.712.1999
We provide all the details for a Bella Festa...a beautiful party!
Event Design
Tables & Chairs
Linens & Tableware
Buffet Service Items
Sound Systems
Outdoor Equipment
Decorations
Event Staffing
Serving the Valley
By
ke decorating your window We ma s easy
Lower Sacramento Plaza 10138 Lower Sacramento Rd.
Stkn 209-472-9881 Lodi 209-333-0515
Monday - friday ׀Evening Appointments
The Fountains 1005 Galleria Blvd., Ste 100 Roseville
916-772-7108 Open 7 Days • CL#660087
www.DiscoveryShutters.com
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Covering San Joaquin County
FREE measuring & installation
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
Classy Country Weddings & More ries begin where beautiful memo
209-931-5323
nestled among acres of orchards, Classy Country weddings & more offers a picture-perfect country setting for any special occasion. an expansive, well-manicured green lawn allows for tables and seating for up to 300 guests. our facility presents an affordable, family friendly location for outdoor weddings, receptions or private parties.
classycountry@clearwire.net
SAN JOAQUIN WEDDINGS
THE AREA’S #1
WEDDING MAGAZINE
NOW! Another Quality Publication From
SERVING SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY
SPRING 2014
YOUR LOCAL WEDDING P LANNING & RESOURCE G UIDE
AVAILABLE
WEDDINGS A PUBLICATION BY SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE
24Fabulous
LOCAL WEDDINGS SPRING 2014
SPRING 2014
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
a special publication of San Joaquin
Magazine
YOUR LOCAL WEDDING PLANNING & RESOURCE GUIDE SJM WEDDINGS_JAN14.indd 1 1/27/2014 10:14:06 PM
PICK UP A COPY AT OVER 300 LOCAL BOUTIQUES IN SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY For Advertising Information or to Spotlight Your Wedding in our June 2014 edition, call Lauren Sturman: 209-833-9989 or visit www.sanjoaquinbride.com
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Where your Journey to... Forever Begins
100 East Taddei Rd., Acampo
(209) 368-1378
www.viaggiowinery.com
Wine Tasting & Private Events Tasting Room Hours: Friday 11am-8pm Saturday & Sunday 11am-5pm
SETTING THE STAGE for your CLASSIC EVENT TA B L E T O P LINENS EQUIPMENT LIGHTING S TA G I N G TENTING INDOOR/OUTDOOR AND MORE...
Modesto San Francisco Napa/Sonoma Sacramento 209.524.1996
650.652.0300
707.253.2332
916.444.6120
W W W. C L A S S I C P A R T Y R E N T A L S . C O M 16
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PUBLISHER | EDITOR Tony Zoccoli SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY
SPRING 2014
MANAGING EDITORS Kimberly Stredney, Lindsey Rodrian
What’s Inside Bridal Event Calendar 20 Beauty Buzz 22 Inspiration Board 24 Bridal Gown Trends 30 Wedding Fashion 36 photography by Dan Hood
Local Weddings 44
22 couples share the details of their big day.
Honeymoon Getaway 92 “Pura Vida” Our editor takes you on a breathtaking tour of Costa Rica by Lindsey Rodrian
The Mini-Moon: Napa 98 Wedding Invitation Tips100 Sweet Inspiration 102 Elegant Flowers 106 Elegant Invitations 108 Planning Calendar 110 Back Talk 114
CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Martinez SALES DIRECTOR Lauren Sturman lauren@sanjoaquinmagazine.com SALES EXECUTIVES Michelle Cox, Neelam Patel COVER / FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY Dan Hood Photography PHOTOGRAPHY Lori Makabe Photography, Briggs Photography, Darling Photography, Amanda Collins Photography, Brodie Jane’s Photography, Whitney Ramirez Photography, John Martin Photography, Steve Z Photography, Mo Benson Photography, Nfinity Photography, H and Co. Photography, Mary Gillespie Photography, Kim J. Martin Photography, Infinity Productions, Julie Nicole Photography, Brandy O’Donnell Photography EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Emily Verbeck, Kelly Pollard, Lindsey Rodrian, Kimberly Stredney EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING San Joaquin Weddings is published bi-yearly by San Joaquin Magazine 318 W. Pine Street Lodi, CA 95240 Phone: (209) 833-9989 Fax: (209) 833-9979 COMMENTS: tony@sanjoaquinmagazine.com www.sanjoaquinbride.com
San Joaquin Weddings magazine accepts freelance contributions, however, there is no guarantee that manuscripts or photography (solicited or unsolicited) will be returned. San Joaquin Weddings magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by advertisers contained herein. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of San Joaquin Weddings magazine or its parent company, Inside Magazines Publishing Company, or its owners. Inside Magazines is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from this publisher. Photographs, graphics, and artwork are the property of Inside Magazines Publishing Company. © 2014 Inside Magazines
A PUBLICATION BY SAN JOAQUIN MAGAZINE Visit us on the web at :
www.sanjoaquinbride.com www.sanjoaquinmagazine.com
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What's your Wedding without Chocolate ?
MANTECA
2 0 9 . 8 2 3 . 6 5 0 0 3 0 3 E .Yo s e m i t e Ave . | Ma n t e c a | r m c f m a n t e c a . c o m Gourmet Caramel Apples | Chocolate Dipped Strawberries | Truffles Chocolate High Heels & Wine Bottles | Personalized Chocolate | We Color Match to Your DĂŠcor
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES FOR: Wedding Showers | Favors | Wedding Party Gifts Bride & Groom Gift Baskets and more. Shop Locally. Spring 2014
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Bridal
Events
Save the Date Bridal Events in San Joaquin
Bridal Expo Sacramento JANUARY 25-26, CITRUS HEIGHTS
Soak in ideas for the big day while sipping bubbly and sampling hors d’oeuvres at the Sunrise Mall. Brides- and grooms-tobe can try their hand at a bouquet toss, cake eating contest, and luggage packing game to win anything from flowers to a honeymoon in Mexico. Admission and parking are free. Mall hours. 6041 Sunrise Mall, Citrus Heights, (916) 392-5000, bridal-expos.com
International Wedding Festival JANUARY 26, MODESTO
This expo showcases the diverse cultural and style options available in the Central Valley. Local vendors will sponsor a fashion show to highlight trends for the entire bridal party, and offer deals on everything from dresses to carriage rides. $15, 11a.m. – 4 p.m. Modesto Centre Plaza, 10th and K Streets, Modesto, (209) 9663890, internationalweddingfestival.com
My Bridal Sale Event & Wedding Expo FEBRUARY 1, SACRAMENTO
Check out everything from gourmet cakes to bachelorette party services at this huge Sacramento show. Attendees can fill up their swag bags with free goodies or enter hourly drawings to score some high-end prizes from local vendors. $8 in advance, $10 at the door. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Crowne Plaza Sacramento, 5321 Date Avenue, Sacramento, (866) 931-8508, mybridalsale. com 20
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University Plaza Waterfront Hotel’s Bridal Fair *VISIT OUR BOOTH FEBRUARY 19, STOCKTON
Join Stockton’s most respected wedding professionals at the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel as they host this elegant event complete with a red carpet entrance, live DJ, VIP reception, informative vendors and other surprises. The highlight of the evening will be the wedding giveaway; brides-to-be can enter to win a FREE wedding on the website! $10, 6–9 p.m. 110 West Fremont Street, Stockton, (209) 9441140, universityplazawaterfronthotel.com
Elkhorn Banquet Facility & Restaurant Bridal Fair FEBRUARY 20, STOCKTON
Come view what Elkhorn and other select vendors have to offer! Appetizers and refreshments provided from 6-7:30 p.m. Venue highlights include seating for up to 370, beautiful chandeliers, full bar inside room, on-site catering and a large, builtin dance floor. Complimentary admission if you pre-register online. 6–9 p.m. 1050 Elkhorn Drive, Stockton, (209) 477-2200, elkhornbanquet.com
Lincoln Center 4th Annual Strolling Bridal Faire FEBRUARY 22, STOCKTON
This leisurely bridal show offers a chance to explore Lincoln Center’s boutiques and chat with local vendors about all of your wedding needs. Enter to win thousands
Covering San Joaquin County
of dollars in prizes. Friends of the bride attend free. $15 for brides, with $10 good toward lunch at participating Lincoln Center restaurants. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Lincoln Center, Stockton, (209) 477-4868, lincolncentershops.com
Love in the Heart of Wine Country *VISIT OUR BOOTH FEBRUARY 23, LODI
The theme for Lodi’s 15th annual bridal event is “Love in the Heart of Wine Country,” home to some of the most romantic wedding venues in the country. The event will feature wedding professionals creating “Pinterest-type memories,” and brides who pre-register will be entered in an “Exclusive Prize Drawing.” For more details, to preregister, and for admission discounts, visit the website. $12, 1-5 p.m. Hutchins Street Square, 125 S. Hutchins Street, Lodi, bridalevents.info
Folsom Bridal Show APRIL 27, FOLSOM
Over 65 exhibitors and activities including a live band, food samples, two fashion shows featuring designer gowns, fun photo booths, and much more! Choose between two large ballrooms filled with beautiful displays by handpicked wedding professionals and party vendors. Register online for additional prizes and free tickets for the bride and groom. $10, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. Lake Natoma Inn, 702 Gold Lake Dr, Folsom, folsombridalshow.com
18th Annual Summer Bridal Event *VISIT OUR BOOTH AUGUST 6, STOCKTON
$12, 5-9 p.m. Lincoln Farmhouse, 3225 Deer Park Drive, Stockton, bridalevents.info
The Reserve at Spanos Park Golf Course Bridal Show MARCH 2, STOCKTON
Mingle with preferred area vendors while experiencing all that The Reserve at Spanos Park Golf Course has to offer. Enjoy tasting samples of the chef’s hors d’oeuvres and beverages, and learn how your special day starts and ends at The Reserve. Take advantage of amazing incentives. Complimentary admission. 1-5 p.m. 6301 W. 8 Mile Road, Stockton, (209) 477-4653, reserveatspanospark.com
*VISIT OUR BOOTH AT THESE EVENTS
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
Memories of a lifetime…
at a place you will never forget
Wedding Packages Available
Including Onsite Ceremony Locations Complimentary Valet Parking (upon availability) Reception Rooms with Dance Floor and Stage Customized Centerpieces One Suite for the Bride and Groom with Complimentary Breakfast for Two
...and much more
Ask to speak with our Sales & Special Events team today Call (800) 822-WINN (9466), ext. 8477 Email sales@JacksonCasino.com or visit JacksonCasino.com
®
12222 NEW YORK RANCH ROAD, JACKSON, CA 95642
800-822-WINN (9466) . JACKSONCASINO.COM
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Family Owned & Operated
21
SINCE 1985
Buzz
Beauty
CLINIQUE CHUBBY STICK MOISTURIZING LIP COLOUR BALM
COMPILED BY LINDSEY RODRIAN
Perfect for the gal who doesn’t like the sticky feeling of lipstick or gloss, this balm gives your lips soft, kissable color. The super-nourishing balm is loaded with mango and shea butters. Just what dry, delicate lips need to feel comfortably soft and smooth. Choose from sixteen natural looking lip tints to perfectly match your accent colors. Available at Dillard’s, 4950 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 477-1230, Dillards.com
You’ve been planning every last detail; now make sure you have all your beauty tools packed and ready. From lace undies to long lashes, we’ve got you covered for your trip down the aisle.
FOXERS LACE BOXERS
What’s more adorable than cute little lace boxers? FOXERS are women’s underwear with the waistband design from men’s boxer shorts. Essentially they serve as a way for women to have the comfort and style of boxer shorts but still look and feel sexy. Your hubby will love them! Available at Bridal Bliss, 306 Lincoln Center, Stockton, (209) 473-9200, blissinstockton.com
SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH FOUNDATION PRIMER
The silky blend of vitamins and antioxidants smoothes and perfects skin, while the unique formula helps to inhibit the destruction of collagen and fills in fine lines and pores for a flawless finish. Use after moisturizer and before foundation for complexion perfection that works overtime to fill in fine lines and even out skin texture. Available at Sephora, 1060 Perimeter Dr. Manteca, (209) 923-6233, Sephora.com 22
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TOO FACED SHADOW INSURANCE ANTI-CREASE EYESHADOW PRIMER
Here’s your full-coverage insurance policy against all fading, creasing and smudging. The skin soothing formula evens out skin tone and smoothes fine lines to create a perfect canvas for shadows. Color is intensified and locked down until you take it off. Available at Sephora, 1060 Perimeter Dr. Manteca, (209) 923-6233, Sephora.com
VITAMIN E COOL BB CREAM
Meet a skincare hero, Vitamin E Cool BB Cream. The Body Shop’s new take on BB cream illuminates, evens skin tone and protects with moisture for 12 hours. Available in one cool shade, the lightweight texture will effortlessly blend onto skin for a fresh and natural look with medium coverage, while refreshing skin. Available at The Body Shop, 3401 Dale Rd., Modesto, (209) 578-4180, thebodyshop-usa.com
CLINIQUE AIRBRUSH CONCEALER
Instantly help soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles with this little tube. Light-diffusing optics brighten shadows, while the creamy, light formula flows through for smooth brush-on, precision application--all while treating your under eyes with the care they deserve. Available at Dillard’s, 4950 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 477-1230, Dillards.com
MAC BROW SET
This miracle tool strokes on to add shine, style and an overall wow to your brows. A brush-on gel grooms and slicks brows into shape without flaking or stiffening. Available in several tinted shades or clear, and may also be used to accent lashes. Available at Macy’s, 5242 Pacific Ave, Stockton, (209) 477-3333, macys.com
LATISSE
One of the leading brands in eyelash serum works magic over weeks of application. Apply daily until reaching your desired eyelash length (expect results in three or four weeks), and then apply bi-weekly as upkeep. You will ditch the falsies forever because your lashes will be longer and thicker than you ever dreamed. Available at Total Body Med Spa, 1805 N. California St., Suite 201, Stockton, (209) 939-3800, totalbodymd.com
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Winter
WONDERLAND Warmth and elegance combine to set the stage for a magical winter wonderland wedding. Think snowy white hues, sparkling silvers and twinkling white lights. –KS
Groom Canali Tweed Suit by LuisaViaRoma luisaviaroma.com
Bride Winter Wedding Gown by Maggie Sottero sotteroandmidgley.com
Bridesmaid Red Gown by Monique Lhuillier moniquelhuillier.com
It’s All in the details… White Cake
weddingelation.com
Flowers
mostweddingflowerideas.com
Bride’s Boots onetowed.com
White Table Setting bridalguide.com
Hot Drinks
thesweetestoccasion.com
* All “details” shots pulled from Google Images. Wedding party looks all courtesy of respective brands.
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Bridal Fair
Thursday, February 20, 2014 6:00pm - 9:00pm
BridalforFair Fair Bridal Fair Bridal Pre-Register your chance to
Thursday, February 2014 6:00pm - 9:00pm Thursday, February 2014 6:00pm 9:00pm Thursday, February 20,20, 2014 6:00pm - -9:00pm win a 20, Grand Prize!!
Pre-Register online at: Pre-Register for your chance Pre-Register for chance to Pre-Register for your chance to toto www.elkhornbanquet.com Pre-Register foryour your chance
win asimply Grandcall Prize!! Orwin us! a Grand Prize!! win a Grand Prize!! win a Grandonline Prize!! Pre-Register at: Pre-Register online Pre-Register online www.elkhornbanquet.com or simply Admittance is FREE! Pre-Register onlineat: at:at:call us! www.elkhornbanquet.com www.elkhornbanquet.com Admittance is FREE! www.elkhornbanquet.com OrOr simply callcall us! us! simply Or simply call us! Admittance is FREE! Admittance is FREE!
Admittance is FREE!
Come join us & view what Elkhorn & our select vendors have to offer ! Appetizers & Refreshments provided from 6pm-7:30pm! ComeCome join usjoin & view & our select vendors to offer us &what viewElkhorn what Elkhorn & our selecthave vendors have! to offer ! Come join usSeating & view what select vendors have to offer ! for upElkhorn to 370 & ~ our Beautiful Chandeliers Appetizers & Refreshments provided from 6pm-7:30pm! Appetizers & Refreshments provided from 6pm-7:30pm! Full Bar inside room ~provided Large Built -in Dance Floor Appetizers & Refreshments from 6pm-7:30pm!
Great On-Site ~ Beautiful Excellent Customer Service Seating for 370 Beautiful Chandeliers Seating for upuptoto 370 ~Catering Beautiful ~ Full Bar inside room Seating for up to~ 370 ~Chandeliers Chandeliers Seating for up to 370 ~ Beautiful Chandeliers Full Bar inside room ~ Large Built -in Dance Floor For more information, please contact Kristi English Large BuiltFull -in Dance Floor room ~ Great~On-Site ~ Excellent Customer Service Bar inside LargeCatering Built -in Dance Floor more information, contact Kristi Kristi@elkhornbanquet.com Full BarCatering inside room ~please Large Built -in DanceEnglish Floor GreatFor On-Site ~ Excellent Customer Service Great On-Site Catering ~ Excellent Customer Service Kristi@elkhornbanquet.com 1050contact Elkhorn Drive For more please Kristi English Service Greatinformation, On-Site Catering ~ Excellent Customer For more information, please Kristi English 1050 ElkhornStockton Drive, Stockton 95209 Kristi@elkhornbanquet.com CAcontact 95209CA For more information, please contact Kristi English Kristi@elkhornbanquet.com 1050 Elkhorn Drive Kristi@elkhornbanquet.com 1050 Stockton CA Elkhorn 95209 Drive 1050 Elkhorn Drive Stockton CA 95209 Stockton CA 95209
209-477-2200 209-477-2200
209-477-2200
209-477-2200 209-477-2200
Golf Shop | Elkhorn Grill Practice Facility | Banquet Room 1050 Elkhorn Drive | Stockton, CA
Once you’ve played here, you will want to join here!
From I-5 take the 8 Mile Exit (East) to Davis Rd. (North)
209-474-3900 elkhorngc.com
Our program is simple -
199
$
You pay as a one time only initiation fee of and then $ .95 for unlimited golf, 7 days a week
99
/mo
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Black Tie AFFAIR
Glamour and style reign supreme at this black tie affair. Mix in a little Gatsby- inspired romance of yesteryear, and your wedding will be the talk of the town. –KS
Groom Black Tuxedo by Bonobos bonobos.com
Bride Ball Gown by Maggie Sottero sotteroandmidgley.com
Bridesmaid Ava Maxi Dress by BHLDN BHLDN.com
Tuxedo Chocolate Covered Strawberries berries.com
It’s All in the details… Crystalline Heels BHLDN.com
Romantic Table Setting theknot.com
Calla Lily Bouquet
baysidebouquets.com.au
Champagne Tower brides.com
* All “details” shots pulled from Google Images. Wedding party looks all courtesy of respective brands.
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www.sanjoaquinbride.com
An Unforgettable Day Deserves An Unforgettable Dress
The ultimate in selection, quality, & personal service OF
306 Lincoln Center 路 Stockton
GOLD WINNER
BEST
2013
209路473路9200
SAN JOAQUIN M A G A Z I N E
Historical Landmark Phone inquiries to event coordinator
107
YEARS
209.986.9948 or 209.368-4310 325 W. Pine St., Lodi
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Country CHIC
Let the beauty of the great outdoors inspire you to create an ambiance of casual, country chic charm by blending a rustic setting with refined detailing. –KS
Groom Khaki Suit by Express for Men express.com
Bride Melissa Sweet Gown from David’s Bridal davidsbridal.com
Bridesmaid Short Pink Dress by Ann Taylor anntaylor.com
It’s All in the details… Bride’s Cowgirl Boots emmalinebride.com
Chic Chandelier allurebridals.com
Mason Jar Drinks w/Cookie Toppers ruffledblog.com
Daisy Pomander weddingbee.com
Chalkboard Sign
southernweddings.com
* All “details” shots pulled from Google Images. Wedding party looks all courtesy of respective brands.
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Covering San Joaquin County
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
■ Enjoy a Golf or Social Membership ■ A Beautiful clubhouse with amazing views of the Delta ■ Grand ballroom seating of 400 overlooking the San Joaquin River ■ Sit down service, buffets and food stations ■ Full Service for receptions, luncheons, seminars, anniversaries, etc. ■ Event coordinators at your service ■ Dates for 2014 still available ■ Fitness Center, trainers and pool facilities ■ Junior Golf Programs & Junior Swim Team
3800 W. Country Club Boulevard ▪ Stockton, CA 95204
209.466.4313
w w w. s t o c k t o n g o l f c c . c o m
Restaurant, Catering, Lounge
“The Finest in Italian and American Cuisine”
At Angelinas, we serve spaghetti you can’t get anywhere else. Our gravy comes from an authentic family recipe which has been in our family for generations. We have a full service restaurant, a lounge - “The Hanger”, a deli, and offer take-out orders and reservations for parties of 6 or more.
One stop, full-service professional planning to anticipate every detail of your event and to plan it flawlessly! Wonderful food, served or buffet style.
1563 East Fremont, Stockton 209.948.6609 • angelinas.com
Thank You!
San Joaquin for voting Angelina’s the BEST Italian Restaurant and BEST Caterer.
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Bridal
Trends
DRESSES BY ELLIS BRIDALS LONDON ENGLAND WORLD’S OLDEST BRIDAL COMPANY AVAILABLE AT
BLISS BRIDAL SALON
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DRESSES BY JUSTIN ALEXANDER AVAILABLE AT
BLISS BRIDAL SALON
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Bridal
Trends DRESSES AVAILABLE AT
SPARKLE bridal couture SPECIALISTS IN SIZES 14-30.
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www.sanjoaquinbride.com
For curvy brides sizes 14–30 it all starts with your SPARKLE gown
SPARKLE
bridal couture
solely dedicated to sizes 14–30
3200 Folsom Blvd. at 32nd Street Sacramento, CA
SPARKLE bride Amber photographed by True Love Photo
Start your SPARKLE experience today Call 916.538.6615 or book online at sparklebridalcouture.com Bridal | Special Occasion | Accessories
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Photos: Matthew James Photographers
Lodi’s most charming & romantic vineyard event and wedding destination
19877 North Davis Rd. • Lodi • (209) 367-9883 www.BareRanchLodi.com • Lori@bareranchlodi.com property shown by appointment
Darling Photography
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WWW.DARLINGPHOTOSBYVICKI.COM |
Covering San Joaquin County
209.406.1374
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
5059 Carol Lane | Valley Springs, CA
209.481.4976 | www.dodasaweddings.com
Simple, Relaxed, Romantic. Dodasa Ranch is designed to be a destination venue that’s conveniently close to home and offers a variety of activities that will make your rehearsal dinner, wedding, and day-after brunch a one-of-a-kind experience. We have all inclusive packages to make planning a breeze. Up to 65 guests can sleep comfortably in the various guest cabins, cottage house, and charming ranch house. Just a short drive from the valley‌..come experience Dodasa Ranch.
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Shot on location at Wine and Roses for San Joaquin Weddings Magazine PHOTOGRAPHY: DAN HOOD MODELS: DANI NIKOLE AND JORDENNE BURNS JEWELRY AND ACCESSORIES: BLISS BRIDAL HAIR: LAURA DUTRA’S GLAM TEAM MAKEUP: ANNA CAMPOFIORITO FLOWERS: ELEGANT ESSENCE DRESSES: BLISS BRIDAL
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Taylor & Joe’s Wedding Resources Photography Darling Photography (209) 406-1374 darlingphotosbyvicki.com Wedding Dress Mori Lee Bridesmaids Dresses Sheree DeCarlo (bride’s sister) Flowers DIY Cake Alex Britton (bridesmaid) DJ Service/Band Good Life Photo Booths and Sound (Rich McClure)
Taylor & Joe Pacheco July 27, 2013, Hurst Ranch and Feed, Jamestown Taylor and Joe lost touch after high school, but when they reconnected later, the sparks flew. After two years of dating, Joe couldn’t wait any longer. He bought a ring and made plans with friends that night. When Taylor joined them after horseback riding in her dirty clothes, Joe asked their friends about their engagement story. After they recounted their experience, Joe said, “Well, I think I would do it a bit more abruptly and as a surprise.” He dropped down on one knee and proposed right there. Taylor never saw it coming. Taylor and Joe took three years to plan their wedding and it was not always easy along the way. The couple had to stay on a tight budget and had many difficulties with the date. Then, in early 2013, Taylor’s parents tragically passed away shortly before the wedding. “After that planning the wedding was pretty hard,” explains Taylor, “especially since I was very, very close to my mom.” They decided to honor her parents and Joe’s grandfather, who he was very close with, at the reception with a poem. They then lit candles, which they kept burning all night. When the day arrived, Joe ran into a little problem when he realized he had lost his dress shirt. That made the groom’s day a little more stressful, but, like Taylor says, “Thank God for Wal-Mart.” For Taylor and the other ladies, the day started out with food, music and mimosas. “We joke that since I did all the planning and making of everything I got the easy part that day. I didn’t even have to put my dress on myself,” she says. The wedding was perfect, thanks to the support of their family. When Taylor arrived in her sister’s car, they parked very close to the aisle and she leaned her seat all the way back so Joe would not be able to see her. While everyone was getting in position, Taylor peeked through the window and saw Joe standing at the altar. “That’s when it got real for me,” she remembers. “I started to cry for the first time that day.” “Overall, the whole wedding from the ceremony to the reception was just perfect. Everyone had worked so hard and put so much into it, and I think it really showed,” Taylor says. After their long engagement, it is a thrill for the couple to finally be married and spending the rest of their lives together.
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Invitations & Announcements Alex Britton (bridesmaid) and Bride Hair & Makeup Sheree DeCarlo (bride’s sister) Colors Pink and Burlap Wedding Day in One Word Taylor – “Breathtaking” Joe – “Hectic”
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Kourtney & Ryan’s Wedding Resources Photography Amanda Collins Photography (209) 200-3377 amandacollinsphotography.com Event Planner Stylish and Savvy, Stockton Flowers Blossoms by Lisa, Stockton Wedding Dress David’s Bridal, Modesto Bridesmaids Dresses House of Fashion Bridal, Sacramento Cake Amber’s Cake Creations, Sacramento Catering Fresh and Quick Catering, Galt DJ Service/Band Morning Star Entertainment, Sacramento Invitations & Announcements Frosted Ink, Modesto
Kourtney & Ryan Marriott October 13, 2013, Grace Vineyards, Galt It has been smooth sailing for Kourtney and Ryan. The couple met through mutual friends and, after some time, began dating. Soon, Kourtney met Ryan’s children and things moved steadily forward from there. They moved in together and eventually bought their first home and their first puppy, which they named Bella. Shortly after moving into their new home, Ryan called Kourtney into their bedroom to explain that he had bought Bella a new collar. As Kourtney began to tell Ryan that their new puppy already had a perfectly good collar, Ryan pulled out his purchase. Attached were a ring and a dog tag asking Kourtney to marry him. “Planning my wedding was honestly a complete breeze,” says Kourtney. “My mom is the best organizer and planner I know, and she literally took care of everything. She contacted all possible vendors and set appointments, and I just showed up and picked things!” Kourtney’s mom loved planning the wedding so much, she even started her own event planning business: Stylish and Savvy. Kourtney loves all things retro, and her wedding reflected that aesthetic. “I wanted a classic car, and art deco inspired cake design, and the guys looking like Frank Sinatra. So we did just that! It was a perfect mix of vintage, art deco, and modern,” she says. The wedding was perfect. Kourtney and Ryan included Ryan’s children in the wedding party and they gave Kourtney a warm welcome into the family. In the end, they were seen off in a white 1966 Austin Princess Van de Plas. “People ask us how it feels to finally be married, but honestly, it’s not very different,” Kourtney explains. “We share a last name now and we get to call each other husband and wife, and I am a stepmom now, but other than that our relationship is exactly the same. I think that is the best thing you can hope for, for your relationship to remain as happy and loving as it was when you both decided you wanted to spend the rest of your lives together. This has absolutely been our fairytale come true.”
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Photobooth Platinum Photobooth, Modesto Vintage Furniture Rental Dogwood Party Rentals, Folsom Hair & Makeup Villa 2000 (Jena Maclean), Stockton Colors Gold, Black, Ivory and Red Wedding Day in One Word “Magical”
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Suhey & Chris’s Wedding Resources Photography Briggs Photography (209) 239-7542 briggsphotography.com Flowers Belles Lodi Flower Shop Wedding Dress David’s Bridal, Modesto (Oleg Cassini Gown) Bridesmaids Dresses David’s Bridal, Modesto Cake Burgess Bakery, Ripon Catering Wine & Roses DJ Service/Band Tailspin Party Productions Invitations and Announcements Exclusively Weddings
Suhey & Chris Prondi October 26, 2013, Wine & Roses, Lodi Chris and Suhey met in November of 2008 through the popular Myspace social media site. “I had just moved back to the U.S. from Puerto Rico,” Suhey recalls. “I sent him a friend request, he responded quickly, and a week later we met in person on our lunch break.” Four years later, Chris planned their engagement for the weekend of Suhey’s birthday, which was coincidentally also around the time they first met. “It was a complete surprise,” Suhey remembers. “We were going to San Francisco for my birthday, but it was all for the engagement. He proposed at Baker Beach during sunset. It was a beautiful moment.” Chris gave Suhey a card with a handwritten poem that she thought was for her birthday, but then surprised her by getting down on one knee. “It was this wonderful poem that he wrote,” she gushes. “The last line was breathtaking.” The couple got married 11 months later surrounded by friends and family. Suhey’s whole family flew in from Puerto Rico and Florida, and her bridesmaids were her six sisters. “It was so special and beautiful to have them all there,” she says. “There was lots of crying.” According to Suhey, the party really got started when the DJ put on the Spanish music. “It was beautiful; it went by too quick!” Married life is treating the couple well. When they met, Suhey was a bank teller and Chris had his own production company. Suhey joined him, and now they work together 24 hours a day traveling the country with their 11 rescue dogs doing Stunt Dog shows. In addition to halftime shows for the Oakland Raiders and San Francisco 49’ers football teams, they also performed on a float at the Rose Bowl Parade and will be at the Bob Hope Theatre on February 15. The couple loves dogs so much, they even had a photobooth at their wedding with doggie hats that had ears for their guests to have fun with. To find their next show, visit stuntdog.com.
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Hair Jennifer Pascua, Stockton Makeup Nicole Cortes Colors Orange, Champagne Brown and Ivory Wedding in One Word “Dream”
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Jennifer & Billy’s Wedding Resources Photography Darling Photography (209) 406-1374 darlingphotosbyvicki.com Flowers DIY Wedding Dress David’s Bridal; Sewing and More Alterations, Modesto Bridesmaids Dresses Target Cake Fruit pies from Marie Callender’s Catering Diablo Grande Golf and Country Club Videographer Brian Zarka El Nido Productions
Jennifer & Billy Pearson May 5, 2013, Diablo Grande Golf and Country Club, Patterson Jennifer and Billy were good friends who became something more. They met as sophomores in high school and remained friends for over seven years. “We had always “liked” each other, but had never even considered dating since we were such good friends,” says Jennifer. That changed when they went on a road trip together to Chico to visit a mutual friend. “During that weekend we spent every moment together, and our feelings for each other blossomed.” They became inseparable. A short five months later, Billy and Jennifer were enjoying a typical night at home, relaxing and listening to music. That’s when Billy asked her for a dance. When their song, “I Can Love You Like That” by John Michael, began to play, Billy got down on one knee and proposed. “[We] decided we wanted to wait to get married until we could save up money to have the wedding of our dreams,” explains Jennifer. Their engagement lasted three years.“[It] gave us plenty of time to settle on every little detail. It felt like an eternity waiting for the day to come, but once it came we were so happy we had all of that time to plan. It was not a stressful experience at all.” “Our inspiration was our love for all things country, rustic, crafty/homemade, and simple,” says Jennifer, who, with her DIY spirit, took a very active role in fulfilling her own vision. She created her own flower arrangements with wheat purchased from Hobby Lobby and designed her own invitations. “We handmade many items such as the place cards, centerpieces, bouquets, aisle decorations, picture collages in old picture frames, favors... I even had my dress customized with my own personal design,” says Jennifer. When the day finally arrived, the only snag was the wind. The venue offered to move the event indoors, but Billy and Jennifer wanted an outdoor wedding and, with some creative problem solving, they were able to have one. It was not even cold enough to discourage a groomsman from taking a plunge in the pool. “We feel content and complete,” says Jennifer. “Married life doesn’t get any better than this.”
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DJ Service/Band Terry Ruiz Tailspin Party Productions (also officiated the wedding) Invitations & Announcements DIY (MS Paint, FedEx Office Print Center) Hair & Makeup En Vogue Salon, Modesto Colors Brown and Tan Wedding Day in One Word “Perfection”
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Erin & Trevor’s Wedding Resources Photography Brodie Jane’s Photography (209) 333-8863 brodiejayne.com Flowers Embellish Floral Design (Emily Faso) Wedding Dress Bliss Bridal, Stockton (Justin Alexander) Bridesmaids Dresses Bliss Bridal, Stockton (Bill Levkoff) Cake Tiers for Two, Modesto (Suzie Grover) Catering Wine Valley Catering, Napa DJ Service/Band Elite Entertainment Invitations & Announcements Wedding Paper Divas
Erin & Trevor Nutcher October 6, 2013, Oak Farm Vineyards, Lodi Erin and Trevor both grew up on dairy farms in different parts of the state, but when their paths crossed at California Polytechnic State University, they saw quite a bit of each other due to their shared major in Dairy Science. Slowly, their casual friendship blossomed into a relationship. Unfortunately, Trevor graduated before Erin and returned to his family’s dairy farm in Modesto, while Erin finished up her degree three-and-a-half hours away in San Luis Obispo. But despite the distance, their relationship remained strong with persistent contact and a lot of driving. In June 2012, on the way home after a belated birthday trip to Point Reyes courtesy of Trevor, Erin received a phone call from her sister who reported that Merna, their favorite calf, was injured. Panicked, Erin and Trevor rushed back to the dairy to discover Merna with a pink wrap on her neck. But what was underneath was not an injury – it was a love note. When Erin looked up, Trevor was on his knee. Then, Erin’s family and Trevor prepared a celebratory dinner. Erin’s mother and two sisters gave her a big hand in planning the wedding and shared their contacts for photographers and florists. They added a dairy-inspired touch, adding ear tags to their wedding favors. Erin also felt it was important to commemorate her father, who passed in 2010. She was married beneath oak trees (her and her father’s favorite trees), and she set up a memory table in his honor. The wedding went off without a hitch. They were even joined by family who flew in from Holland and made their reception a little extra fun by dancing and carrying them to Dutch music. Now, Erin and Trevor are living in a land of milk and… well, mostly milk. They both live and work together on a dairy, which Erin says is a refreshing change after enduring the difficult distance.
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Hair Luscious Salon, Lodi Makeup The Dermal Clinic Colors Hot Pink, Orange and Tan Wedding Day in One Word “Magical”
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
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Renzleyn & John’s Wedding Resources Photography Lori Makabe Photography (707) 374-5272 lorimakabe.com Flowers Woodbridge Florist Wedding Dress David’s Bridal Bridesmaid’s Dress David’s Bridal Cake Something Sweet Catering Wholey Ravioli DJ Service/Band Harpist Larisa Smirnova Invitations & Announcements Express Type & Graphics Hair Fifth Street Salon, Galt (Tina Mathews)
Renzleyn & John Gerling Aug. 17, 2013, Dan & Toni Gerling’s backyard, Galt
Colors Cream and Blue Wedding Day in One Word “Magical”
When Ren’s sister’s friend John asked her out for a coffee, she responded with a firm, “No.” She suggested tea instead. They met for their “coffee and tea” date at a local bookstore and got to talking. Before they knew it, they were walking around downtown, chatting until 3 a.m. “He did most of the talking and I did the laughing,” remembers Ren. “He walked me to my car and we both went home. A day later, John asked me out for another date.” Two years later on a rainy December day, John and Ren went to Sonoma to meet with a few family members for lunch. When they got there, their family members were nowhere to be found. They were running late and told the couple to eat without them. After lunch, the rain had started to subside and John and Ren went to the Botanical Gardens. When they meandered to the top of a hill, Ren turned to find John on his knee. “I said yes,” Ren says. “Right then, the sun came out from behind the clouds for a moment.” They decided to hold the wedding in John’s parents’ backyard. John and his father spent the summer laying brick pathways and landscaping the yard, and John’s mother helped them plan the details, including the harpist and the antiques that would give their wedding the desired vintage touch. They exchanged vows in the intimate garden and later released butterflies. “We could not have wished for a more perfect wedding,” says Ren.
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Nicole & Taylor’s Wedding Resources Photography Darling Photography (209) 406-1374 darlingphotosbyvicki.com Flowers The River Mill Wedding Dress David’s Bridal Bridesmaids Dresses David’s Bridal Tuxedos Men’s Warehouse Cake The River Mill Catering The River Mill DJ Service/Band Sounds in Motion, Modesto Photo Booth Platinum Photo Booth, Modesto
Nicole & Taylor Stewart
Invitations Minted
June 7, 2013, The River Mill, French Camp
Hair Electric Beach, Oakdale
Taylor and Nicole ran with the same crowd in high school – in fact, Nicole’s best friend was dating Taylor’s twin. “He had the biggest crush on me for the longest time, but it wasn’t until my junior prom that we actually started dating,” Nicole explains, “and we’ve been together ever since!” Fiver years after that junior prom, Nicole and Taylor found themselves amongst friends and family on their annual trip to Burning Man. At the end of the weeklong event, after fireworks and the burning of the wooden man, Taylor got on one knee and asked an unsuspecting Nicole to marry him. Planning the wedding was a breeze, thanks to their venue, The River Mill. “Our venue did the catering, cake, flowers and even the set up and break down of everything! We told them exactly how we wanted everything and they made sure it happened for us,” says Nichole. Plus, Nichole’s mother proved to be a big help during the process. “She was there for every appointment, every bridal fair, and even the hunt for the perfect venue, which took about three months of research and weekend trips,” says Nichole. “Everyone [...] helped to make this experience the best and most stress free for me. I am so grateful to have worked with such amazing people because it really allowed me to sit back and enjoy the planning process and the excitement of being engaged.” On their wedding day, the couple opted for a “first look”, where they took some time to see each other one-on-one before the ceremony. “It was a very special moment for the both of us because we were able to have a more personal experience seeing each other for the first time that day,” says Nicole. At the reception, there was plenty of dancing and the photo booth was a hit. At the end of the night, when Taylor and Nicole had their final dance, the DJ played a recording of their vows over the music. “He is truly my best friend and we just have so much fun together,” says Nicole. “We figured out who we are and where we want to be and are able to enjoy that journey together as a married couple.”
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Makeup MAC Cosmetics Colors Grey and Guava with Black accents Wedding Day in One Word “Perfect”
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Lauren & Justin’s Wedding Resources Photography Lori Makabe Photography (707) 374-5272 lorimakabe.com Flowers Bella Bloom, Sacramento Wedding Dress Trudy’s Bridal, Campbell Bridesmaids Dresses Trudy’s Bridal, Campbell Cake Something Sweet, Galt Catering Viaggio Winery & Estate, Acampo Videographer Max Video Productions, Roseville DJ Service/Band Elite Entertainment, Stockton Invitations & Announcements Magnetstreet.com
Lauren & Justin Jacobs June 1, 2013, Viaggio Winery & Estate, Acampo Whoever says long distance never works doesn’t know Justin and Lauren. Justin and Lauren met in Pensacola, Florida. Lauren and her mother were visiting her brother, who (like Justin) is an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps. They immediately hit it off and had their first date during that same visit. Two weeks later, after Lauren had returned home, Justin flew out to California for date two. In only a few months, things became more complicated when he was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, but the couple wasn’t discouraged by the distance. “It was difficult because we had to rely heavily on technology to communicate, with only the occasional visits to see one another,” says Lauren. “But looking back, we would not have had it any other way. It made our relationship stronger because we learned how to communicate better with each other and talk things through.” About a year after they started dating, and a year before Justin left Japan, Lauren came to visit him. On Christmas Eve, they dined at a private table in a restaurant that overlooked the city. Justin had brought a series of small gifts for Lauren. The last one? A ring. Lauren had a year and a half to plan the wedding, but it was stressful all the same. Her mother proved to be a big help, and Lauren gave her personal touch by making whatever she could including the table numbers, name cards, signs and even the ring-bearer’s box. When the day arrived, the wedding came together perfectly, including the clumsy moments. “It was the little moments – like me stepping on my own dress as I’m walking down the aisle and Justin accidentally hitting me with the cork from the champagne bottle after it ricocheted off a banister during the reception – that really made the day memorable and laughable,” says Lauren. Now, Justin and Lauren are living happily together in Georgia, where Justin is currently stationed. “We have enjoyed being able to finally spend every day together.”
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Hair Breanna Deemer Makeup The Dermal Clinic (Dolores) Colors Black, Ivory and Turquoise Wedding Day in One Word “Incredible!”
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Danae & David’s Wedding Resources Photography Amanda Collins Photography (209) 200-3377 amandacollinsphotography.com Reception Absinthe Brasserie and Bar Wedding Dress Mori Lee Cake Dessert provided by Absinthe Brasserie and Bar Catering Absinthe Brasserie and Bar Colors Groom wore dark grey and burgundy Bride had white and coral flowers Wedding Day in One Word “Satisfying”
Danae & David Zevely July 12, 2013, Point Bonita Lighthouse, Sausalito Danae and David met in a sculpture class at San Joaquin Delta College when Danae told David how much she admired the beautiful, tiny hands on his sculpture. Though she had no designs to date him, it soon seemed inevitable, so Danae initiated their first kiss. Three years later, coming back from a day trip to San Francisco, they pulled over to the side of the road to enjoy some cigars and watch the moon rise. David handed Danae a cigar in the dark… with a ring on it. Planning their wedding was not difficult. “I wanted the wedding to be small, low-key and very personal,” explains Danae. “We invited only nine people and chose a location - Point Bonita - where we have spent many happy days out of town. My dad officiated. Everyone stood during the brief ceremony. It was very special.” The wind may have been merciless, but the ceremony was perfect--even her grandmother, who was recovering from a recent back surgery, made the small hike to the lighthouse. Afterward, they all joined up at Absinthe Brasserie and Bar. One of Danae’s favorite moments occurred after parting with their guests. “I had just changed out of my poufy dress and into jeans and a t-shirt in the restaurant bathroom. As we walked to the car, holding hands, I looked down at my feet and realized I was still wearing my sparkly wedding shoes. At that moment, everything felt so crazy and destined and perfect at the same time. It was awesome in the truest sense of the word.
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Kristen & Chris’s Wedding Resources Flowers Patt Ramsey at Elegant Essence (209) 629-3357, Manteca Photography Whitney Ramirez Photography Wedding Dress Sparkle Bridal Couture, Sacramento Bridesmaids Dresses Vera Wang for David’s Bridal Wedding Rings Peck’s Jewelers Cake Sheri Congrave (a family friend) Catering Angelina’s Spaghetti House
Kristen & Chris Kay June 2, 2012, Bare Ranch, by Michael David Winery, Lodi When they first met, Chris and Kristen were not convinced they were meant to be, but remained amicable acquaintances for two years. That is, until they coincidentally reconvened at a party… Somehow, this time was different. They spent the entire night talking and soon realized their relationship was something worth pursuing. Six years later, they began seriously discussing the prospect of marriage. It wasn’t long before Chris announced he’d be taking Kristen to San Francisco. “I knew right away what he was up to so I played along. He doesn’t have a very good poker face,” Kristen says. The compromised surprise didn’t matter. Chris took her to the top of Twin Peaks where they enjoyed a private view of the city. He explained to her that he should have asked her to marry him long ago and proposed. Chris and Kristen had a blast planning the wedding. “Chris and I are very hands-on A-type people, so we took the challenge head-on,” Kristen explains. “I really wanted a garden party, spring, vintage feel for our wedding. I had a ton of ideas and a huge Pinterest board but was on a very strict budget, so I knew I’d need to DIY a large chunk of the decor to pull it off.” The couple’s friends and family helped “assemble a treasure trove of vintage décor,” scouring estate sales and thrift stores. Even their floral designer, Patt Ramsey, helped to add a personal, sentimental touch. “We took the lace from the wedding dress of my aunt who passed away and Patt wrapped the stems with the lace,” says Kristen. “My sister was my maid of honor, so it was special for us both.” However, despite Chris and Kristen’s combined propensity for planning, things began to fall apart as the wedding loomed. Chris received a tux two sizes too small. Their wedding vows were lost and had to be re-written. “The big kicker was our street was being resurfaced and they were laying fresh asphalt, which meant all our decor, my wedding dress, tuxedos, everything had to be moved to my mom’s house because we couldn’t drive on our street at all for two days,” shares Kristen. When the big day arrived, everything went smoothly. “We felt so lucky to have all the people we loved the most all together at the same time. Friends and family who lived close banned together and came early to help set up; people from out of state made trips for this one day,” says Kristen. “I was honored.” 62
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DJ Service/Band DJ Dave Tillman, All in the Details Invitations & Announcements Etsy, Darby O’ Hair & Makeup Missy, VIP Salon Colors Greige & Blush Wedding Day in One Word “Heartfelt”
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Katrina & Aaron’s Wedding Resources Ceremony & Reception Classy Country Weddings (209) 931-5323 classycountryweddings.com Photography John Martin Flowers Dawn Marie at Classy Country Weddings Wedding Dress David’s Bridal, Modesto Bridesmaids Dresses David’s Bridal, Modesto Catering Classy Country Weddings DJ Service/Band Classy Country Weddings Invitations and Announcements Costco Hair & Makeup Christina Silveira
Katrina & Aaron Colon
Colors Horizon Blue and Pink
July 6, 2013, Classy Country Weddings, Stockton
Wedding Day in One Word Beautiful
Aaron and Katrina met in Manteca in 2005 as juniors in high school. Aaron asked her out on a date and they went to Baskin-Robbins. After graduating, the couple decided to stay in Manteca and kept dating for seven years. The engagement came while they were in the process of having their new house built. “We had just purchased a dirt lot,” Katrina remembers. “He took me there and proposed with our puppy, Lola. She was sitting next to me, and he told me to look at her collar. I was expecting a house key, but the ring was on it!”
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Laila & Galen’s Wedding Resources Ceremony & Reception Dodasa Ranch 5059 Carol Lane, Burson (209) 481-4976, dodasa.com Photography Steve Z Photography Flowers Victoria with Passion Flowers, Valley Springs Wedding Dress Bella’s Bridal, Lubbock, TX (where Laila is from) Cake Tom with Villa Bakery, Valley Springs Catering Dodasa Ranch
Laila & Galen Miller June 15, 2013, Dodasa Ranch, Burson Galen and Laila met in 2005 while they were volunteering with Students Abroad. Laila was in Australia, and Galen was in New Zealand. Laila explains, “The program was International Student Volunteers. We were both college students in undergrad. We were in the same group and on the same plane. We stayed in the same hostel that night, and later all the volunteers met, and we got to know each other.” For this well-traveled couple, the road to love was not always easy. They spent seven and a half years in a long distance relationship where Laila was able to visit him only four or five times a year in Oregon where he was getting his PhD. Their engagement also happened there. “There is a wildlife reserve and they have a lot of blackberries there,” Laila recalls. We were going to pick blackberries and look at the birds. We did this every visit for four years. He proposed at the end of our berry-picking hike. It was so cute.” When Galen finally finished his PhD, he landed a job in California, so the couple moved there together and got married. Since Laila is half Persian, the wedding was a multi-cultural celebration. “We incorporated a lot of Persian customs,” she says. “Instead of with your backs to the guests at the ceremony, you sit facing those in attendance.” Also, Laila’s mom married them, and while their vows were being said, four people held a veil and Laila’s stepmother crushed two cones of sugar. Another unique custom was instead of the traditional cake cutting, they each dipped a finger in honey and exchanged tastes.
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DJ Service/Band A Celebration DJ (Harrison Sanchez) Invitations weddingpaperdivas.com Hair & Makeup Danya Najjar (Laila’s hairstylist in Lubbock and step-aunt/best friend) Wedding Day in One Word “Epic”
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MODESTO
Victoria & Joseph’s Wedding Resources Reception DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto 150 9th Street, (209) 526-6000, doubletreemodesto.com Ceremony St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Atwater Photography Nfinity Productions Flowers Hope Silva, Merced Wedding Dress Mira Bridal Couture, Modesto Bridesmaids Dresses Mira Bridal Couture, Modesto Catering DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto
Victoria & Joseph Graziano June 1, 2013, DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto Joseph and Victoria met in high school when she was friends with his sister, Sabrina. “I never hung out with him,” she says. “I just knew he was my friend’s brother.” The two friends eventually went their separate ways, and when Victoria was later working in Modesto, her coworker Anna wanted to set her up. “Anna is Sicilian,” Victoria explains. “I said, ‘How funny, my friend from high school, Sabrina, is also Sicilian.’” It turns out, Anna was actually friends with the Grazianos -- they grew up in Sicily together. Victoria laughs, “She said, ‘You know Joseph is single – I’m going to set you up!’ So, she totally set us up.” Their first date was in January of 2011, and they hit it off completely. In April of 2012, Victoria bought tickets to see comedian Jim Gaffagan for Joe’s birthday. He picked her up for work and they went to San Francisco to see him perform. Joe really wanted to go to the Palace of Fine Arts Park before the show, so they grabbed sandwiches and went. But Victoria was stressed out because she was worried they’d be late, and she was starving! She wanted to each the sandwich, but Joe asked her to wait until they got to the park. He looked around for a private spot and then grabbed the bag of food from Victoria and said, “So, I need to ask you a question.” She looked up worried because he sounded so serious, but then he got on his knee, opened the ring box and asked her to marry him. “It was a complete surprise,” she recalls. “We had never planned it.” Needless to say, Victoria couldn’t eat after that, she was so excited! “It was a romantic, incredible moment,” she says. Victoria’s favorite moment of the wedding was their first dance. It was literally the first time they had ever slowed danced. Joe chose the song, a version of Wonderwall by Ryan Adams, so that made it even more special to Victoria. “Even though everyone is watching, you still feel like you’re alone,” she explains. “It’s so special and private. I wish I could relive it over and over.”
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DJ Service Sounds and Motion (Jordan Walls) Invitations and Announcements Twirly Whirly Designs Hair Sarah Hanks Makeup Nikole Denae Colors Ivory, Champagne and Black Wedding Day in One Wor “Blissful”
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Sarah & Daniel’s Wedding Resources Reception Elkhorn Banquet Facility & Restaurant 1050 Elkhorn Drive, Stockton, (209) 477-2200, elkhornbanquet.com Ceremony Cathedral of the Annunciation Photography Mary Gillespie Photography Flowers The Event Designers, Lodi Wedding Dress Bliss Bridal Bridesmaids Dresses Bliss Bridal Catering Elkhorn Banquet Facility & Restaurant Hair/Make Up Chelsea Ramsey, The Bee Hive
Sarah & Daniel Luna September 7, 2013, Elkhorn Banquet Facility & Restaurant, Stockton Sarah and Daniel are high school sweethearts who met at a park playing softball the summer before their senior year. Daniel was a friend of Sarah’s cousin who went to Lincoln, and Sarah went to St. Mary’s. “We hit it off and fell in love,” she says. “He was my first boyfriend and we’ve been together ever since.” They were together for nine years, so to keep their relationship fresh they would have date night once a week at Casa Flores Marina. “We are best friends,” Sarah explains. “We have so many memories. We’ve been together for so long.” The proposal finally came during a graduation party from nursing school for Sarah. “Daniel got down on one knee, told me I was the love of his life and asked me to marry him,” Sarah remembers. According to Sarah, the entire wedding day was absolutely wonderful. “People say, ‘Oh, be prepared for all these glitches,’ but nothing went wrong. We had a beautiful day.” She credits her amazing wedding planners, The Event Designers. Her favorite moment was saying their vows and making the lifetime commitment. “The other moment that stands out,” she says, “is having my first dance with my dad. He told me how proud he was and how much he loved Daniel. Their father daughter dance was to Steven Curtis Chapman’s “Cinderella”.
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Photo Booth Aura Photo Lounge Colors Purple, White and Silver Wedding Day in One Word: “Fairytale”
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Jamie & Joseph’s Wedding Resources Reception Elkhorn Banquet Facility & Restaurant 1050 Elkhorn Drive, Stockton, (209) 477-2200, elkhornbanquet.com Ceremony Reach Worship Center, Stockton Photography Briggs Photography Flowers J & S Flowers, Stockton Wedding Dress Bliss Bridal Salon, Stockton Bridesmaids Dresses Bliss Bridal Salon, Stockton Cake M and W Dutch American Bakery, Stockton
Jamie & Joseph Fisher December 28, 2013, Elkhorn Banquet Facility & Restaurant, Stockton Jamie and Joseph both grew up in Stockton and attended Delta Sierra Middle School and Bear Creek High School together. The two were always friends and would always greet each other in passing. About five years ago, Joseph reached out to Jamie through Facebook and established their first date from there. The pair officially began dating in 2012, but Joseph moved away after high school to attend college in North Carolina, so they had a long distance relationship for a while, seeing each other only every three months until he moved back to Stockton. Joseph popped the question in June of 2013. He was visiting from college in North Carolina and was in town for Jamie’s daughter Ariana’s sixth birthday party. They were having a pool party, and it was scorching hot that day, Jamie recalls. “He said, ‘Are we going to get to the cake?’ I said, “Yeah, we’ll just enjoy everyone’s company and then eventually get to the cake.” When Joseph kept asking, Jamie eventually asked, “What is it with the cake?!” After signing “Happy Birthday” to Ariana, Joseph said he had an announcement to make. “Everyone knew – his parents and my parents – so his dad was holding my ring,” Jamie says. His dad brought the ring out and he got down on one knee and purposed. After everyone applauded, he grabbed Ariana and proposed to her too to accept him as her new father. He gave her a necklace. The couple was recently married in December. “There were so many favorite parts I can’t pick,” says Jamie. “To be honest, there were quite a few people there, but we were in our own little world. We were so thankful that everyone came, but we just kept our focus on each other. After all is said and done, what remains is the marriage, so that’s what we focused on. I never dreamed of a perfect wedding; I wasn’t a bridezilla. I wanted the marriage, not the wedding. We believe Jesus is the third person in our relationship.”
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Catering Elkhorn Banquet Facility & Restaurant DJ Service/Band DJ Lamar Invitations and Announcements My Design at Michael’s Hair & Makeup Madam May Salon (Ashley Taylor) Wedding Day in One Word “Peaceful”
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The Heirloom Inn
A HIDDEN TREASURE IN THE LOWER SIERRA FOOTHILLS
Molly & Chris’s Wedding Resources Ceremony & Reception The Heirloom Inn 214 Shakeley Lane, Ione, (209) 217-6834, theheirloominn.com Photography Kim J. Martin Photography Wedding Dress Renfros Bridesmaids Dresses The Bridal Box Flowers Stefanie Smith from Galeazis Cake Ettore’s Catering Motherlode Market & Deli DJ Service/Band Epic Events (Ray Martinez)
Molly & Chris Struwe October 6, 2012, The Heirloom Inn, Ione Some advise against workplace romances, but Molly and Chris couldn’t have stopped it if they wanted to. “We hung out one night soon after we met and never stopped since,” says Molly. They dated a long time – about four years – before they got engaged. The couple had just started Crossfit together, and one day Chris was introduced as a guest coach. Molly thought that was strange, but got particularly suspicious when a photographer began snapping photos of the class. “Next thing I knew, the guest coach was down on one knee proposing!” she exclaims! The planning phase was a blast for Molly, who received a lot of help from Sherry at the Heirloom Inn. “She’s pretty amazing,” Molly testifies. The couple chose to make their wedding very intimate, only inviting close family and friends and ditched some of the traditional wedding rituals like the money dance and bouquet toss, in order to make it more personal. They also read personal vows and opted for the unconventional first look, which turned out to be one of their most memorable moments. “I’m so glad we got to see each other before the ceremony. It eased our nerves and gave us a private moment to begin celebrating together,” says Molly. The wedding turned out to be in the words of the bride, “Flawless. Perfection. The wedding was a dream come true. Being completely present for the whole day was so important to us and we achieved that.” Molly and Chris are thrilled to start a family together and are expecting their first baby this August.
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Invitations & Announcements MagentStreet Hair Abielle Salon (Sam Torimino) Makeup Adrienne Kravchuk (Bridesmaid) Colors Blush, Cream and Silver Wedding Day in One Word “Amazing”
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Katelynn & Steven’s Wedding Resources Reception The Farmhouse (209) 227-4802 Ceremony Morris Chapel, University of the Pacific Photography Julie Nicole Photography, Lodi Flowers Blossoms by Lisa, Stockton Wedding Dress Elizabeth Bridal, Lodi Bridesmaids Dresses Madam Maxine Bridal, Stockton Catering Angelina’s, Stockton DJ Service/Band Elite Entertainment Invitations and Announcements Wedding Paper Divas
Katelynn & Steven Galvin
Makeup Flawless Face by Jen
June 29, 2013, The Farmhouse, Stockton
Colors Ivory, Blush and Nude with Silver Accents
Katelynn and Steven met in high school in 2006—they were in the same English class. Steve sat behind Katelynn, and she helped him with his homework and gave him notes. Their friendship turned into more when Katelynn and her friends toilet papered Steve’s truck as a prank. “He was very upset,” she remembers. “Then I asked him out.” The pair dated throughout high school, and when they graduated, Katelynn went off to college at University of the Pacific and Steve went to Fresno State. Despite the distance, they stayed together. Since their schools were only about two hours from each other, they were able to visit each other every weekend. Their engagement came after graduation day. “When I graduated undergrad, we went out to his parents house and went walking through their orchard,” Katelynn explains. “He knelt down and said, ‘Oh, I have a rock in my shoe.’” She thought he had an actual rock from the walk, and told him to get up, but then he asked her to marry him. Steven’s dad saw Katelynn crying and drove up to the couple asking Steven, “What did you do?!” Steven said, “I proposed!” After a two-year engagement, their wedding day final arrived on the hottest day of the year. The couple was married at Morris Chapel, where their parents also tied the knot. “It was really nice having all of our family there--we have huge families, so they had a chance to hang out,” Katelynn concludes. “It was beautiful. It was perfect.”
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Wedding Day in One Word “Hot”
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Lisa & Will’s Wedding Resources Reception The Farmhouse (209) 227-4802 Ceremony Morris Chapel Photography: Brandy O’Donnell Flowers Silveria’s Flowers & Gifts, Stockton Wedding Dress After 5 and Wedding, Montana Bridesmaids Dresses Allure Catering Angelina’s, Stockton Makeup Gianna Vanata
Lisa & Will Lenz
Colors White and Silver
August 10, 2013, The Farmhouse, Stockton Will and Lisa both grew up in Stockton. They met in eighth grade and promptly dated for a week. “You know how that goes,” Lisa laughs. “I broke up with him because we were going to different schools.” Though they didn’t see each other at all throughout high school, they had many mutual friends and met again after graduation. He went to school Cal Poly and she was at Montana State, so they dated long distance for four years. On Christmas Day in 2012, Will popped the question. “It’s a tradition to have brunch after opening presents,” Lisa explains. “After brunch, my mom said to go over to Will’s and see how his family is doing.” Though it was odd to Lisa that her mom was shooing her off and saying she didn’t need to help with the dishes, she obeyed. She thought something was up, and when he opened the door he had a huge smile on his face. They exchanged gifts--he got her a pair of shoes. “The wrapping wasn’t the best,” she jokes. Then Will suggested they go for a walk even though it was raining outside. “We were nearing this lamppost where we shared our first kiss, and he started to slow down. He said, “Lisa, I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?’ I said yes, of course, of course!” Lisa had a little help from her mom with wedding preparation. “My mom is a very talented florist,” she says. “She assisted in the table arrangements, silver champagne buckets. The whole theme of the wedding was white with silver accents.”
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MORRIS CHAPEL On the beautiful campus of the University of the Pacific
Gina & Patrick’s Wedding Resources Ceremony Morris Chapel University of the Pacific, (209) 946-2538, pacific.edu Reception Brookside Golf and Country Club, Stockton Photography Briggs Photography Flowers The Country Florist and Cazale’s Flower Shop Wedding Dress Enzoani from Elegant Lace Bridal, San Jose Bridesmaids Dresses Alfred Angelo Cake: Frosted Flour, Lodi Catering Brookside Golf and Country Club
Gina & Patrick Coughlin
DJ Service/Band Elite Entertainment
September 1, 2013, Morris Chapel, University of the Pacific
Limousine: Aurora Limousine
Gina and Patrick met in college at Indiana University their freshman year and promptly lost touch, but it wasn’t long until their paths crossed again. “Not only did we fall in love, but we became best friends and would talk for hours,” says Gina. After a year together, they had to endure a year of long distance. “After college I moved to Philadelphia for an internship at a theatre company and Patrick went to Officer Candidate School for the United States Navy,” Gina explains. “It was a tough year being apart, driving/taking the train six hours just to see each other for the weekend, but we enjoyed those few moments that we could spend together.” But one night, while visiting Patrick in Newport, Rhode Island, Patrick took Gina out to dinner followed by a walk on the promenade. When they stopped to admire the ocean view, Patrick popped the question. “A perfect proposal from the perfect guy,” claims Gina. Because of Patrick’s profession, picking a date proved difficult, but it also allowed ample time to plan their wedding. Gina and her mother spent two years carefully working out the details to her Downton Abbey-inspired wedding. “I know it is so cheesy to say that our wedding was inspired by a TV show,” Gina confesses, “but I was so taken with the classic elegance of the décor and the subtle pops of color.” To add their own personal touch, they gave their guests a taste of some hand-selected local wines and honored their parents and grandparents by displaying photos of their weddings. Whatever little problems they encountered on their wedding day, it didn’t matter. “The only things I cared about were my friends and family having a good time and, of course, that I got to marry my best friend. Things will go wrong, and unless someone doesn’t show up or you’re naked, the day will be perfect.”
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Invitations & Announcements Birchcraft Invitations Hair & Makeup Victoria Peña Colors: Gold, Ivory, and Plum Wedding Day in One Word “Magical”
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Tiffany & Mike’s Wedding Resources Ceremony & Reception The Reserve at Spanos Park 6301 W 8 Mile Rd, Stockton, (209) 477-4653, reserveatspanospark.com Photography Mary Gillespie Photography Flowers Renne and Gina Wedding Dress J’aime Bridal, Pleasanton Bridesmaids Dresses J’aime Bridal, Pleasanton Catering The Reserve at Spanos Park DJ Service/Band Moises Martinez with Sound in Motion, Modesto Invitations & Announcements Wedding Paper Divas Hair: Kendra with Peaches and Cream, Tracy
Tiffany & Mike Saunders
September 28, 2013, The Reserve at Spanos Park, Stockton Tiffany and Mike met in 2009, thanks to their friends, the matchmakers. “They introduced us at a party and since that night, we’ve never stopped talking,” Tiffany recalls. Three years later, in December of 2012, Michael suggested they take off and head to Half Moon Bay. Tiffany thought nothing of it and excitedly accompanied her boyfriend on their adventure. Once arriving, they perused the beach together. “I was in my own world, snapping photos of the beach.” Tiffany says. “All of a sudden Mike said, “I love you and I want to spend every moment with you.’” Mike dropped to his knees and popped the question. Of course, Tiffany said yes. If you ask Tiffany, Mike’s reception speech was one of the most memorable, sentimental and kind moments of their special day, “He thanked me for being with him and said he was so excited to have children and he hopes they have my smile and eyes,” Tiffany says sweetly. The new couple enjoyed every moment of their blissful day, and was ecstatic that their large group of friends and family, spanning the U.S., was able to share in their special day.
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Makeup Sonja Bridal Creations, Modesto Colors Shades of Purple with black and white accents Wedding Day in One Word Surreal
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Kaitlin Marie & Rolf’s Wedding Resources Reception Stockton Golf and Country Club 3800 Country Club Blvd, Stockton, (209) 466-4313, stocktongolfcc.com Ceremony The Cathedral of Annunciation, Stockton Photography H and Co. Photography Flowers Budding Events, Rancho Cordova Wedding Dress Mira’s Bridal, Modesto Bridesmaids Dresses Gesinee’s Bridal Catering Stockton Golf and Country Club Cake Something Sweet Bakery DJ Service/Band: David Bo
Kaitlin Marie & Rolf Guntert
Invitations and Announcements Best Wishes, Stockton
September 14, 2013, Stockton Golf and Country Club, Stockton
Hair Sara Garidalbi / Chelsea Ramsey
Kaitlin and Rolf met in 2007 while working at Sundance Sports. He asked her out while they were at work, and they went on their first date shortly after. “The day he asked me out,” she remembers, “we found out that he was actually best friends with my older cousin, and I was best friends with his younger half brother, so our families were united.” Rolf proposed on July 7, 2012 on a family trip to the Cayman Islands. “We were in Grand Cayman, and he proposed in a private cabana on the beach,” Kaitlin says. “I was so surprised. They had an engagement party waiting for us. My parents even came as a surprise. It was just as exciting as the wedding!” As for the wedding day, three moments in particular stand out in her mind. “Getting ready I was so calm, but when I got my hair done it started to set in…” Next she recalled the church doors opening and 300 people starring at her when she hadn’t seen anyone all day. She continues, “The best part was walking down the aisle and seeing how happy everyone was and, of course, seeing Rolf’s face.” Her goal was to get him to cry because he typically doesn’t. “I wanted to make him cry!” she says. “And he did!”
Makeup: Jena MacLean
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Colors: Black, Cream and Gold One Word: Epic
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Charmaine & Tim’s Wedding Resources Ceremony & Reception University Plaza Waterfront Hotel 110 W. Fremont Street, Stockton, (209) 944-1140 universityplazawaterfronthotel.com Photography Infinity productions (Jesse Balasco), Oakdale Flowers Fresh Ideas Flower Co., Modesto (Mother made arrangement) Wedding Dress Bianca’s Bridal Couture, Modesto Bridesmaids Dresses David’s Bridal, Modesto Cake Something Sweet Bakery
Charmaine & Tim Anderson October 26, 2013, University Plaza Waterfront Hotel, Stockton Tim and Charmaine met in 2003 when she was working at JCPenney and he was hired to do a remodel job at her store. Tim was stalking her around the store and when Charmaine found out, she went up to him and said, “I heard you like me.” Tim’s reply? “Uh, yeah, want to go on a date?” Their first date was to Tapa the World restaurant and a haunted house in Sacramento on October 26, 2003, and the rest was history. Exactly nine years later on October 26, 2012, Tim took Charmaine to a bed and breakfast where they went horseback riding on the beach. Charmaine remembers, “I was sitting on the horse riding down the beach thinking, ‘This is a great place to propose.’ The guide said, ‘Go ahead and step off the horses and you can take a look around.’ Tim got down on one knee and proposed--tears started to flow.” Not by accident, exactly one year later to the day, they were married. According to Tim, “The wedding was very James Bond classy. Every man loves James Bond, but Charmaine came up with the theme of ‘diamonds are forever,’ so everything was glittery and crystal. Other details included a custom “A” made for the cake topper, and Tim came into the ceremony on a boat blasting James Bond music. Also, black and white leather furniture adorned the lounge area, along with crystal chandeliers. The couple even made James Bond numbers for the tables--every table was double 0 something. “They were all custom cut and sparkly,” Charmaine says. “We went with custom poker chips that matched colors, and the place cards were napkins folded like tux shirts with bowties.” The couple could not have been happier with their big day. “It seemed like it went by too quickly,” Charmaine concludes. “My mom took care of everything the day of… It turned out beautifully.”
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Catering University Plaza Waterfront Hotel DJ Service/Band Sounds in Motion (George Gonzalez), Modesto Hair Alyce Medina Makeup Benefit Counter at Macy’s (Olivia Sandozall) Wedding Day in One Word “Blingtastic”
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Valerie & Josh’s Wedding Resources Reception University Plaza Waterfront Hotel 110 W. Fremont Street, Stockton (209) 944-1140 universityplazawaterfronthotel.com Ceremony Presentation Church, Stockton Photography Mo Benson Photography Flowers Barkley Florists, Manteca Wedding Dress Bliss Bridal Bridesmaids Dresses Maggie’s, Stockton Catering University Waterfront Plaza DJ Service/Band Frank Gallardo of Exclusive DJ Company
Valerie & Josh Ortegon August 3rd 2013, University Plaza Waterfront Hotel, Stockton Valerie and Josh had history even before they met during their freshman year of high school in 2005. Their fathers grew up together, as next-door neighbors. “It wasn’t until after graduation that we started dating,” says Valerie. Years later, on her 21st birthday, Josh proposed. Valerie’s mother had planned a party, and Josh found it to be the perfect opportunity. “He stood up and told everyone he had an announcement,” Valerie continues, “I thought he was going to say something embarrassing, but he asked me to marry him.” Their fairy-tale day was in August 2013. It was above and beyond anything either of them had imagined, and that was in part thanks to their mothers. “Everything was beautiful, our parents are designers and they did such an amazing job.” Valerie says. Valerie laughs as she reminisces her fashionably late arrival to the wedding. “I was 45 minutes late!” she exclaims. She was ready to continue on to the church after realizing mid-trip they’d forgotten the flower girl bouquet and ring bearer pillow, but they just had to turn around to get her veil!
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Invitations & Announcements Magnet Street/Wedding Paper Divas Hair & Makeup Corina Corpuz Salon Avanti in Stockton Colors Lavender and gray Wedding Day in One Word: “Amazing”
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THE GREAT WEDDING GIVEAWAY
WINNER
Vanessa & Jamie’s Wedding Resources Reception University Plaza Waterfront Hotel 110 W. Fremont Street, Stockton (209) 944-1140 universityplazawaterfronthotel.com Ceremony: Morris Chapel Photography Briggs Photography Flowers Sweet Peas Floral Design Wedding Dress: Maggie’s Bridal
Vanessa & Jaime Ordaz August 11th 2013, University Plaza Waterfront Hotel, Stockton Although Jaime and Vanessa have different versions how they met, Vanessa swears hers is the truth. According to her, Jaime worked at San Joaquin General Hospital while she was in nursing school. When their friends began dating, they discovered while talking that Vanessa and Jaime each thought the other was cute. Vanessa’s friend gave her Jaime’s number but she didn’t want to call him first. Luckily, when Jaime’s friend gave him Vanessa’s digits, he only waited an hour to text her. The couple got engaged December 23, 2011, two days before Christmas in San Francisco. Vanessa remembers, “We had planned on going ice skating that evening, but had just gotten off work and we were tired, so we decided to walk around instead. We went to Pier 39 to hang out right by the water. He spun me around, got down on one knee and said, ‘Will you marry me?’ I said, ‘Get up! You don’t even have a ring!’ But he was holding the ring upside down, and I saw the shimmer and freaked out. I was jumping up and down; I couldn’t believe it. I thought he was joking. He told me that I grabbed onto his hand but he had to spin me around because he had the ring on his finger.” Jaime chimes in, “Presentation is the key. The sun was going down, we were out by the sailboat, and I tried to stick my hand in my pocket but she reached around and grabbed my hand. I thought I had lost it!” He didn’t know the ring was upside down. Their wedding day wasn’t until almost two years later. The couple didn’t have a lot of money so they were going to keep it so small that they weren’t even planning a reception. But then they won their dream wedding from the University Plaza Hotel. Vanessa says, “When we won, it was so amazing! We felt so grateful that we were chosen. Angie did such a great job helping us with everything. Shawna from Briggs [Photography] helped us so much as well.” Jaime adds, “When Vanessa and I were at the head table and saw our guests there, it was such a blessing to know that all of that was for us. With so much support from all of our families and loved ones, it was so special.” Jamie’s eight-year-old daughter, Natalia, has a special role in their big day as well. Vanessa says, “I got her all done up, and the photographer had been taking pictures of the rings, so my sister’s friend was supposed to deliver them back to his best man. Natalia delivered them instead and surprised Jaime with the rings. She said, ‘Daddy was crying’ and then I started crying. We just wanted to be married – we didn’t care how it happened. And we’re in love and living happily ever after!”
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Bridesmaid Dresses: Elizabeth Bridal Catering University Plaza Waterfront Hotel DJ Service: Elite Entertainment Invitations and Announcements Minute Man Press Hair: Paris Windham Makeup: Kyndra Wilson Bridesmaids Hair & Makeup Mackenzie Tokunaga Colors: Purple and champagne Wedding Day in One Word: “Magical” & “Unforgettable”
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“Pura Vida,” lovebirds. Get lost in a country possessing deep rainforests, vast farmlands, and breathtaking beach views. WRITTEN BY LINDSEY RODRIAN
PHOTOS BY JOSH HOUDA
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PLAYA HERMOSA, GUANACASTE
Consider beginning your trip here. This relaxed, pristine beach is just twenty minutes from the Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport. Hermosa, which means “beautiful” in Spanish, is the perfect description of this low-key hot spot. The smooth, gray sand beach is never crowded, while still occupied by an ample amount of beachy-cool restaurants offering oceanfront seating. Found between two mountains, the beach is known for its outstanding marine fauna, making this the perfect place to enjoy ocean life.
Costa Rica is a truly beautiful country, inside and out. The simplicity evokes an atmosphere generating a relaxing and dreamy mood. As natives greet you with “Pura Vida,” they remind all to enjoy the good life. And a good life it is… The changing sceneries are a paradise to those looking for a thrilling trip, a relaxing getaway, or both. Boasting both eco-friendly and trendy spots, the lodging and restaurant choices bring a uniqueness to traveling in the tropics.
A BEACH BUM’S PARADISE:
If you’ve decided to take it easy, put your feet in the sand and enjoy the sound of the ocean, Costa Rica has an array of beaches for you. Each varying from a feeling of almost remote, to full-fledged, buzzing beach towns.
PLAY: Snorkeling tours, kayak trips and scuba adventures are available through resorts booking, or schdule your adventures through a variety of beach businesses.
The variety found is this country puts you in full control. You can spend time relaxing as you lose yourself on a beautiful, peaceful beach or get adventurous and pack your trip full of activities like snorkeling, zip lining, and rainforest hiking (among many others). Spanish is the native language here, but most are able to hold simple conversations in English. Spend some time with your love making flashcards and studying basic questions, food and drink orders and lodging information. (If you find that you have not studied enough and are having difficulty ordering a meal, remember this go-to Spanish word: Tipico. You can’t go wrong with this classic dish overflowing with rice, beans and a tortilla.) The ability to initiate and hold a conversation will be fun and prove useful for your trip.
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Honeymoon
STAY: BOSQUE DEL MAR Capturing all of the charm and character of a beach bungalow, the recently remodeled Bosque del Mar boasts a peaceful beach with a beautiful view of the Pacific. Choose from Junior Suites, a garden or beach view, or the Penthouse Suite. A swimming pool, hot tub, Niromi gourmet international restaurant, lounge bar and scuba diving center are on location. hotelplayahermosa.com EAT: LAZY WAVE LOUNGE AND RESTAURANT The magical dĂŠcor, exotic garden and welcoming candlelit day chairs serve as the perfect location for a laid-back romantic dinner and a few homemade cocktails. International and Asian fusion cuisine is equally unique, making this restaurant one-of-a-kind. (+506) 2653 0737
PLAY: COSTA RICA SKY ADVENTURES Fly down one of the longest zip lines in the world. Sky Trek Zip Lines takes you high above the treetops, allowing you to observe the rainforest from above. The tour includes eight cables with distances up to 2,460 feet and a maximum height of 660 feet. This adventure will leave you catching your breath. Sky Adventures also offers a Sky Walk featuring hanging rainforest bridges, lush greenery and exotic creatures. A knowledgeable guide will accompany your group on a hike through the forest, providing information on plant and animal life as you see waterfalls from observation platforms all in a 3 km trail of rich flora and fauna. Sky Cam Cable Car is another option when considering the purchase of a Sky Adventures day package. The cable car reaches an observation area at the highest point of the Arenal Reserve from there you can admire the natural beauty of the rain forest, the volcano and lake. skyadventures.travel
A ROMANTIC RAINFOREST GETAWAY:
If you’ve decided to celebrate your love with a series of thrill-seeking adventures, Costa Rica will monopolize your vacation time. LA FORTUNA, SAN CARLOS, ALAJUELA
Travel to the northern part of Costa Rica to experience the country from a different view. Home to the majestic Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna is a small rustic town. The surrounding areas of La Fortuna offer a variety of exciting and aesthetically amusing sights, adventures, shops and eats.
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Covering San Joaquin County
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
Any Time...Any Where...Any Occasion...In Style Specializing In Lodi, Napa & Shenandoah Wine Tours
Lincoln Chrystler 300 Mecedes Benz Escalade Hummer Party Bus
Experience the joy and cherish the moments.
Celebrate the beginning of your journey at the DoubleTree By Hilton Modesto. Perfect for any size weeding or celebration. Accommodating up to 1200 guests. Offering unique indoor and outdoor venues to create the wedding of your dreams.
under same ownership
TCP# 17547
Destination Weddings Honeymoons Vacation Packages Sightseeing Cruises Sports Event Travel
OFFICE HOURS:
Monday-Saturday 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Sunday hours by Appt. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL:
800.218.0346
sheilascreationstravel.com
info@sheilascreationstravel.com
MODESTO
Please contact our wedding specialist at
209.525.3039
1150 9th St., Modesto, CA • modesto.doubletree.com
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TRUST YOUR NEXT EVENT’S CATERING TO THE
RESTAURANT VOTED “BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT” -San Joaquin Magazine
Bud’s se afo le od gril •
•
The Perfect Man, The Perfect Dress, The Perfect Caterer.
The Perfect Day CATERING
Bud’s offers a variety of catering options to suit your needs-regardless of the size of your party. We can even bring a barbeque for on-site grilling!
BANQUET FACILITIES
Excellent for meetings, parties or even private dinners.
STAY: LOMAS DEL VOLCAN This cozy, welcoming hotel comes in the form of rustic, romantic wood bungalows. Each one comes with two decks, inviting you to enjoy the beautiful property, bursting with diverse tropical flowers and plants. You can enjoy the rainforest and volcano view through the windows of every cabin. This property is special; removed from the rustle and bustle of La Fortuna, the hotel is tucked away atop a hillside inside a farm. Here ecotourists and romantics will fall in love. lomasdelvolcan.com
EAT: DON RUFINO Visit Don Rufino on La Fortuna’s Main Avenue for Costa Rican, contemporary cuisine (and delicious Italian!). The open-air building possesses a warm atmosphere and serves as the perfect place to observe everyday life in La Fortuna. The busy street view is inviting and the food is award winning. This is a great consideration for a nice, upscale dinner. donrufino.com
Whichever route you choose, the breathtaking views of the volcano, rainforest and beaches will leave you loving this special little country. Dubbed the ultimate affordable tropical vacation, Costa Rica will evoke in you a sense of peace.
Serving Lunch & Dinner 7 Days a Week Early Dinner Specials 4-6pm Sun-Thurs Join Us for our Scrumptious Sunday Brunch!
Reservations of any size accepted
Call Bud or Matt for more information at 209.956.0270 314 Lincoln Center • 956-0270 • www.BudsSeafood.com
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Covering San Joaquin County
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
Get your Sexy back!
Stockton Supplies Restaurant
We know you will LOVE your session! Ask about our “session guarantee�.
Janitorial
Party Rentals | Restaurants | Catering | Schools Office | Industrial | Medial Clinics | Janitorial
209.932.0864
209-403-0932
www.sassy.elainebegley.com
Special Events
Stockton Supplies is your one stop for all your party, restaurant, janitorial, medical and industrial needs. We have been serving the valley for over 10 years. Come down and see what we have to offer.
656 Rosemarie Ln. | Stockton | www.stocktonsupplies.com
ss e l e m i T Classic Looks! Up-dos
Make-up
Airbrush Spray Tanning
Bridal Party Discounts
UOP/Delta Student & Senior Discounts
Walk-ins Welcome 4343 Pacific Avenue, A -12, Stockton
(209) 478-1734
Station Rentals Available Spring 2014
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Mini-Moon
MINI
Napa
Photo: Richard Auffrey
MOON IN
BY KIMBERLY STREDNEY
One of the first things you will notice when trying to plan a Napa vacation is there a million options for where to stay, where to eat and what vineyards you must visit. The reality is, they are almost all incredible. You really can’t have a bad vacation in Napa no matter what choices you make, especially if you are on your honeymoon romance literally drips from every vine. Last year, I went on a romantic Thanksgiving holiday weekend getaway to Napa. Below are some recommendations from my experiences, mixed with a few I plan on hitting on our next visit. LODGING If you are mini-mooing in Napa, there are two things your room must have, a fireplace and an oversized tub-the following suggestions have both. My fiancé and I chose to stay at the Old World Inn, a quaint bed and breakfast in downtown Napa, to be in the heart of the restaurant and nightlife scene. A favorite of Oprah, the inn was cozy and inviting and served up a scrumptious homemade breakfast. Other options we looked into included: Auberge du Soleil, off the beaten path in Rutherford, it offers breathtaking views, cozy fireplaces, and private soaking tubs for two; Villagio Inn & Spa, situated among rolling hills near some of the most famous restaurants in the world in the town of Yountville, it looks and feels like an authentic European village.
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WINING During our weekend trip we visited two wineries I highly recommend. Castello di Amorossa in Calistoga is an authentic 13th century replica of a medieval Italian castle complete with working drawbridge and moat. The tour is a must if you enjoy medieval architecture. Domaine Chandon in Yountville was probably our most fun wine tasting experience. Though we opted not to take the tour, we did stroll around the gorgeous grounds taking photos of rolling hills and rows of vines that are now framed on our family room wall. Other options we couldn’t squeeze in were: Schramsberg Vineyards in Calistoga, a historic landmark, home to the oldest vineyards in Napa and one of very few wineries in the area that follow the traditional French method of making champagne; Quintessa in Rutherford, while they only make one vintage each year from a combination of varietals grown on-site, the estate includes a valley, lake, river, and many hills in a spectacular setting. DINING By far one of the best culinary experiences my amateur chef fiancé has ever had, Celadon in downtown Napa offers award-winning global comfort food in a setting that is every bit as charming as it is classy. After dinner, we stumbled upon Silo’s in the Napa River Inn and sang a little live band karaoke for the first time. Other notable Napa restaurants include three Michelin star awardee The French Laundry in Yountville for fine, uber-pricey dining, Mustards Grill in Yountville for local, sustainable cuisine, and Morimoto Napa in downtown Napa for a Japanese culinary journey you won’t likely experience again.
Covering San Joaquin County
Old World Inn
Oyster Foie Gras - Morimoto Napa
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
PRO SOUND & LIGHT Your Total Dance Party Connection
Eat, Drink & Salute at Uncorked for your Wedding Celebrations! Toast to your Special Day with the rustic charm of the Wine Bar, A Perfect Setting for Bridal Showers, Engagement Parties & All the Occasions you will Celebrate before your Wedding! Offering Sparkling Champagnes & Boutique Wines for your Toast to Married Life Contact Us to start planning your celebration! 209.365.7575 or Katie.Uncorked@gmail.com
Wine Bar Open: Wednesday - Sunday 18911 N. Lower Sacramento Rd. (Downtown Woodbridge)
209.365.7575 woodbridgeuncorked.com
Lighting accents for indoor and outdoor weddings, including tents and landscaping.
PARTIES - WEDDINGS SCHOOL DANCES QUINCEAĂ‘ERAS
Dj Ron
(209) 333-8069 Tables, Chairs & More... Everything for your Wedding
ordinary wedding into extraordinary one with unique
Turn an
an
lighting accents by K & T Lights.
We can also bring in lighted topiaries for added ambiance on your special day. Our service includes all lights, installation & take down.
209.957.0829
www.KandTlights.com Fully insured and licensed
209-477-4404 1155 E Bianchi Rd, Stockton, CA 95210 www.americaneventrentals.com
See us on
209.com Wed Your local bridal guide
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Wedding
Etiquette
Wedding Invitation
YES AND NO’S WHO’S WHO ON THE INVITE LIST BY EMILY VERBECK
From narrowing down headcount to save your wallet or keeping the peace with demanding family members, you’re never alone in the raging waters of invitation lists. If you’re struggling with whom to ditch when you get hitched, take a step back and find that crew that’s just right for you.
THE EX EFFECT
GETTING PICKY WITH COWORKERS
But does it? The attendance of your terminally drunk uncle or self-proclaimed black sheep of a cousin probably isn’t on your conjugal wish list, but there are times you have to pull up your chiffon and lick the stamp. Use this rule of thumb before mailing out a death sentence for your wedding day comfort: If their presence will make the party flop, then their invite may be dropped.
Inviting members of your professional community isn’t like selecting your favorite happy hour buddy. Giving away front row seats to your matrimony in the workplace can be a point of favoritism you may want to avoid. If many people from the office are included on your VIP list, extend an invite to your manager or boss to avoid extra hours when you return from your postnuptial bliss. If you need to be more selective, keep it hush-hush or else you’ll be hearing about it from the wrong people.
While many may find an invitation to witness your eternal happiness and lifelong commitment that is addressed to an ex to be tacky, there are people just bold enough to claim the friendship card and send one their past flame’s way. To keep the day dramafree, remember to alert your fiancé before sending that golden ticket of rivalry USPS’s way.
PLUS ONE OR PLUS NONE
Who gets a date and who doesn’t? When you’re getting tight on seating and funds, you’ll be tempted to cut the plus ones. If someone is married, engaged, or in a long-term relationship you extend a plus one as common courtesy. Share the love; every wedding attendee needs a dance partner.
FAMILY MATTERS
ACCOMMODATING OFFSPRING
Unfortunately (because one of your friend’s kids is a little tyrant of snot and screams), if you invite some children to your big day, you will likely have to invite them all. If you’re looking for a grown-ups only wedding, then your invites should reflect a selective number welcome at your ceremony (a.k.a. only those over the age of 25 who are responsible for holding their own forks).
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Covering San Joaquin County
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
A luxury Boutique Restaurant & Rendezvous Banquet Room “EFS” is open Monday through Friday for Lunch & Dinner from 11am to 10pm Saturday brunch from 10am to 3pm and dinner starts at 4 on Saturday.
A sanctuary set against the natural beauty of the sierra foothills, our lakeside gardens, wood covered bridge, sprawling oak studded lawns, and rows of grape vines provide for an amazing back drop for your special day.
Banquet facility seats 80 for weddings, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, receptions, anniversaries and meetings.
1351 North Main Street, Manteca, CA 95336 209.239.3351 | www.erniesfoodandspirits.com
TracyBridal & Alteration
IRONSTONEWEDDINGS.COM (209)728-1251 ext. 20
Downtown Lodi Downtown
Downtown Lodi Lodi
Wedding Dresses Bridal Party Dresses Mother of the Bride Dresses Tuxedo Rentals Prom Dresses Quinceañeras All Types of Alterations For Men & Women Veils Jewelry & Shoes
CHARLES VIANCINHer Something Blue The Versatile Silicone Lid Now Now offering offering On-Line On-Line Wedding and Wedding and Gift Registry Gift Registry Services
Services
Special Orders & Much More...
209.832.0249 902 Central Ave. #4 Tracy, Ca 95378
(Downtown Tracy Opera House)
Entrance on 9th Street
www.tracybridalandalteration.net
Mon-‐Sat: 10-‐5:30• Sun: 11-‐5 • 5 N. School St, Lodi, CA
209.334.5751 •Heat Resistant to 428° •Microwave Safe •Airtight Seal www.lodicooks.net
Mon-‐Sat: 10-‐5:30• Sun: 11-‐5 • 5 N. School St, Lodi, CA 209.334.5751 Mon-‐Sat: 10-‐5:30• Sun: 11-‐5 •www.lodicooks.net 52014 N. School St, Lodi, CA Spring San Joaquin Weddings
209.334.5751
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Cake
Considerations
sweetinspiration
CAKES AND DESSERTS COURTESY FROSTED FLOUR CAKERY, LODI
An ideal wedding cake should hit the sweet spot. To find the object of your confection, keep the following factors in mind.
EYE BEFORE YOU BUY: Don’t be in a sugar rush to make a decision. Ask questions, sample the goods, and be open to other ideas.
DO YOUR HOMEWORK: Collect wedding cake photos and other things that inspire you to share with your wedding cake confectioner.
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BAKERY: Before settling on a particular cake maker, shop around. Find a baker who is open to your vision, and has the skills and experience to execute it.
Covering San Joaquin County
CONSIDER THE LOGISTICS: It’s okay to be sweet on style as long as you’ve thought about the nuts and bolts of cake-making. Arrange a complimentary tasting, discuss plate/pillar rental fees and delivery costs, and be aware of payment and cancellation policies.
MAKE IT YOURS: A cake should complement your individual aisle style and your wedding’s theme, color, and attire. It should also reflect the couple it celebrates, so use monograms, bridal gown accents (think lace and ribbon), or another unique touch to personalize it.
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
Lodi’s Finest Cakery 904 W. Lodi Avenue • Lodi
(209) 369-CAKE (2253) www.frostedflour.com
JOAQUIN
M A G A Z I N E
BRONZE WINNER OF
OF
2013
SAN
THANK YOU for VOTING US BEST BEST CAKES, DESSERTS, BAKERY SAN BRONZE BEST CANDY SHOP
2013
S I LV ER W I N N ER
BEST
JOAQUIN
M A G A Z I N E
A BEAUTIFUL CENTERPIECE for your big day. FRUIT FESTIVAL
®
Weddings • Bridal Showers • Events
ASK A FRUIT EXPERT FOR MORE DETAILS! ®
TOWN ST. | 123-456-7890 Lodi | 224 N.| 1234 Ham Ln.MAIN | 209.368.8875 TOWN | 1234 MAIN ST. | 123-456-7890 Stockton | 135 N. Hunter St. | 209.943.1200 TOWN | 1234 ST. | 123-456-7890 Modesto | 3020 FloydMAIN Ave., Ste.103 | 209.551.3030 TOWN | 1234 MAIN Vacaville | 1661 E. Monte VistaST. Ave.,| 123-456-7890 P-103 | 707.455.7669
EdibleArrangements.com
Arrangements available in a variety of sizes. Containers may vary. Delivery not available in all areas. See store for details. EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS® & Design and all other marks noted are trademarks of Edible Arrangements, LLC. ©2013 Edible Arrangements, LLC. All rights reserved.
Its a perfect dessert table hightlight on birthdays, weddings and other parties. A box of these goodies is also a perfect gift. Espresso Bean • Smores Madagascar Vanilla • Purple Yam • Salted Carmel Mocha Green Tea • Nutella • Chocolate Raspberry
7610 Pacific Ave., Ste. B6, Stockton, (209) 955-0857
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Cake
Considerations
CAKES AND DESSERTS COURTESY FROSTED FLOUR CAKERY, LODI
temptation
sweet An ideal wedding cake should hit the sweet spot. To find the object of your confection, keep the following factors in mind.
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Covering San Joaquin County
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
Receptions • Rehearsal Dinners • Anniversaries Quinceneras • Private Parties • Special Events Large Assembly Hall • Small Assembly Hall Commercial Kitchen
Host Events Up to 315 People
Ceres Community Center
2701 Fourth Street, Ceres 95307
209.538.5629
www.ci.ceres.ca.us/3061.html
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Flower
Considerations
Elegant flowers When it comes to picking out flowers for your wedding, don’t be a late bloomer; plan ahead to make sure that everything will come up roses on your big day.
MAKE ARRANGEMENTS: Find a collaborative floral designer with whom you connect. Reputable florists will be able to supply references and a work portfolio.
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IDENTIFY YOUR NEEDS: Simple backyard weddings may call for a do-it-yourself bouquet of wildflowers and a discreet boutonniere, while formal occasions of size usually require a long list of intricate florals for everything from groomsmen and ring bearer corsages to botanical-rich table-toppers and cake-accenting rose petals.
Covering San Joaquin County
SET A BUDGET: Although fiscal demands of weddings vary depending on their elaborateness, plan on setting aside about 8 to 10 percent of your total budget for flowers.
STICK TO YOUR STYLE: Not only should blooms be season and style appropriate, they should also complement bridal party attire (especially the bride’s gown), venue, theme, and color palette. Bring fabric and/or color swatches to meetings with florists.
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
Let us carry you away!
Belle’s Lodi Flower Shop Luxury FLOraL StudiO
your floral design specialists:
weddings, events, funerals & more
Family Owned Since 1917 Call for a free consultation
209.369.4709
1420 W. Kettleman Ln. Lodi, CA 95242 bellesflowershop.com
www.peppermintcreekcarriage.com
209.890.5911
your choice for #1 florist
CARMA WEIGHT LOSS Lose Weight For The Last Time FDA Approved Appetite Suppressant Physician Supervised
Patricia Bianchi RN, MSN, FNP Nurse Practioner
CALL 209.946.4373
5713 N. Pershing Ave., Ste. A-1 Stockton, CA 95207 www.carmaweightloss.net Staff Speaks English & Spanish
3 G eneratio ns o f Jewelers s ince 1951 2349 Pacific Ave. • (209) 464-9904 • kevinschimkejewelers.com
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Invitation
Considerations
Elegantinvitations When it comes to picking out flowers for your wedding, don’t be a late bloomer; plan ahead to make sure that everything will come up roses on your big day.
MAKE ARRANGEMENTS: Find a collaborative floral designer with whom you connect. Reputable florists will be able to supply references and a work portfolio.
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IDENTIFY YOUR NEEDS: Simple backyard weddings may call for a do-it-yourself bouquet of wildflowers and a discreet boutonniere, while formal occasions of size usually require a long list of intricate florals for everything from groomsmen and ring bearer corsages to botanical-rich table-toppers and cake-accenting rose petals.
Covering San Joaquin County
SET A BUDGET: Although fiscal demands of weddings vary depending on their elaborateness, plan on setting aside about 8 to 10 percent of your total budget for flowers.
STICK TO YOUR STYLE: Not only should blooms be season and style appropriate, they should also complement bridal party attire (especially the bride’s gown), venue, theme, and color palette. Bring fabric and/or color swatches to meetings with florists.
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
Something Sweet Bakery
See us for wedding invitations that have incredible design, unique paper and the latest concept
“Art You Can Eat”
Custom wedding & event cake design Gourmet cupcakes & desserts For any occasion we will help make your event spectacular!
Tipton’s
411 C Street • Galt, California 95632
169 W. Yosemite Avenue Manteca, CA 95336
209.745.9000
209.823.7644
artyoucaneat@att.net
www.tiptons.biz
Copyright JATW 2014
Visit us on
SEAL THE DEAL
220 S. School Street • Lodi • (209) 368-0424 visit us online at: www.danzjewelers.com
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AS SOON AS YOU’RE ENGAGED Get Prepared • Set a Budget • Discuss Time Frame and Dates
THE PLAN COUNTDOWN TO THE BIG DAY ORGANIZE, ORGANIZE!
Set budget, Discuss time frame and dates Determine wedding basics: formal vs. informal • indoor vs. outdoor day vs. night • in-town vs. destination
9-12 MONTHS TO GO: ENVISION THE BIG PICTURE • Do your research • Put an organization system in place • Pick a date • Book venues for the ceremony and reception • Send out save-the-dates • Set spending limits; budget in shared expenses • Consult with clergy • Start to compile guest list • Hire a wedding planner, if necessary • Shop around for vendors • Select a theme and colors • Choose the wedding party • Hunt down a gown • Start a gift registry 110
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4-6 MONTHS TO GO: CONSIDER THE DETAILS
• Check wedding license requirements • Coordinate colors and themes with vendors • Select ceremonial details (music, readings) • Order wedding cake • Order wedding rings • Bring in the pros: choose the caterer, florist, officiant, photographer/videographers, and entertainment • Hire your glam squad (hair stylist,makeup artist) • Arrange the honeymoon • Find a location for the rehearsal dinner • Book wedding night accommodations • Determine attire for groom and wedding attendants • Order guest favors • Register for gifts
Covering San Joaquin County
2 MONTHS TO GO: LEAVE NOTHING TO CHANCE
• Send out invites • Plan the rehearsal dinner • Coordinate and prepare for out-of-town guests • Schedule hair and makeup appointments • Prep documents if you are changing your name • Take final guest count • Confirm the catering plan • Plan bachelor and bachelorette parties • Pick up wedding rings • Make travel and hospitality arrangements for out-of-town guests • Script wedding vows,if necessary • Take stock of wedding day accessories (garter, rings, pillow) www.sanjoaquinbride.com
Wedding Show Weekend Sunday, March 2, 2014 from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.
at The Reserve at Spanos Park Mingle with our preferred vendors while experiencing all that The Reserve at Spanos Park Golf Course has to offer. Enjoy tasting samples of our chef’s hors d’oeuvres and beverages and learn how your perfect wedding day starts and ends at The Reserve.
Attendance is FREE please RSVP at www.weddingshowweekend.com or privateeventmanager@reserveatspanospark.com 6301 W. Eight Mile Road, Stockton, CA 95219 | (209) 477-4653 | www.reserveatspanospark.com
The perfect place to host your intimate gathering. Mezzo offers specially designed menus, beverage pairings and personal service. Private Dining Room (52 Guest Max)
Patio Seating (40 Guest Max)
Showers Rehearsal Dinners Meetings, etc.
(209) 473-7300
3499 Brookside Rd., Suite A www.mezzostockton.com Hours: Lunch 11:30 - 2:30 Tuesday - Friday Bar:4:00, Dinner: 5:00 - 9:00 Tuesday - Saturday
Cookware • Cooks Tools • Cutlery • Bakeware • Candles Gourmet Food • Home Decor • Linens • Gifts & More
Your commitment etched in stone. Your initials etched in stainless. GIFT REGISTRY AVAILABLE.
2111 Pacific Ave., Stockton
209.451.3986
For more information or updates visit us at www.homethymeonthemile.com or email us at lynnshomethyme@yahoo.com
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AS SOON AS YOU’RE ENGAGED Get Prepared • Set a Budget • Discuss Time Frame and Dates
THE PLAN COUNTDOWN TO THE BIG DAY
1 MONTH TO GO: YOU’RE REALLY DOING THIS
2 WEEKS AWAY…
• Schedule final gown and formalwear fittings • Confirm ceremonial details with vendors and officiant • Finalize transportation details • Get marriage license (at least 30
• • • •
days prior to the wedding)
• Arrange for a “practice” hair and makeup session
Finalize the entertainment Determine the music set list Finalize seating chart for the reception Track down missing RSVPs
1 DAY AWAY…
1 WEEK AWAY… • • • •
Pick up your dress Pack for the honeymoon Gather travel documents Work in your wedding heels around the house • Delegate everything you can!
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• Wake up to a massage and a mani/pedi • Confirm wedding day transportation • Set aside vendor tips and payments • Run down the wedding day plan • Host the rehearsal dinner; hand out gifts, if necessary
THE BIG DAY…
HAVE THE BEST DAY OF YOUR LIFE
Covering San Joaquin County
www.sanjoaquinbride.com
Weddings B Y
SAN JOAQUIN WEDDINGS
WEDDI GS A PUBLICATION
BY SAN JOAQ UIN
MAGAZINE
SERVING SAN JOAQUIN COUN TY
SPRING 2014
fiore FLORAL & GIFTS
YOUR LOC AL WEDDIN G
Fiore Floral & Gifts 209.887.2019
PLANNING
18817 E. Main St. Linden Ca
& RESOURC E
24Fabulous
GUIDE
LOCAL WED DING
fiorefloral@verizon.net
S
R O B E R T A
Roberta Scherrer a Non-Denominational Minister since 1997. Held weddings in: Barns, Front Rooms, Hospitals, beside Rivers, on Golf Courses, and Parks. She meets, listens to their dreams, and works to make it special. Vows modified to suit. “I honor and respect all beliefs and traditions, whether religious, spiritual or secular.” At the Rehearsal, everything is practiced to know where to be and what to do. Let Weddings by Roberta make your Wedding special for you too.
209-522-5205 Weddingsbyroberta.com
SPRING 2014
SPRING 2014
www.sanjoa
a special publication quinbride.com of San Joaquin Magazine
SJM WEDDINGS
_JAN14.indd
1
YOU R LOCA L WED DING PLAN NING & RESO URCE GUID E
1/27/2014 10:09:48 PM
Specializing in:
Traditional & Airbrush Makeup Weddings Special Occasions Media & Film
Be part o
excitingf advertis ing opportu nities
Misty Hambrick
The charm of a 19th–Century farmhouse with 21st–Century amenities Four Rooms in the Main House and Three–Level Suite in the Water Tower. Make every stay and special event a memorable experience.
Makeup artistry
415-847-4097
MistyHambrickMakeupArtistry@gmail.com
19960 Elliott Road, Lockeford, CA 95237 209-727-5715 staylockehouse@jps.net theinnatlockehouse.com
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Rebel BRIDESMAIDS
Back Talk
BY KELLY POLLARD
If anyone has seen an episode of Bridezillas, you quickly realize how crazy brides can become leading up to their big day. I thought I was pretty mellow compared to some… The one decision constantly challenged? The specific bridesmaid dress I plucked off a rack for my seven bridesmaids. Hindsight is everything, now isn’t it? My fiancé and I set our wedding date for two weeks after I graduated from college thirteen years ago. When envisioning our ideal wedding day, a priority included tons of bridesmaids and groomsmen. In my early twenties, my tribe of friends felt closer than family at times, and I wanted them all included in my fairytale day. Being young and generally not filled with much worldly sensibility, I picked out a lavender bridesmaid dress with straps skinnier than dental floss, complete with the dye-tomatch high heels. Little did I know, there were mild behindthe-scenes rebellions brought on by a general commiseration about a pale dress that flattered only size six ladies--minimal material at maximum cost. Frankly, I can’t blame my bridesmaids. I existed in a fog of blissed-out love, deprivation by diet frozen meals to squeeze into a dream dress, and sticker shock at what it really cost to host a wedding at a winery – all while hoping my days of cake tasting and honeymoon planning didn’t interfere with my graduation prospects. Wedding planning felt like a second career that interfered with my twohour commute to school in Santa Cruz. Once I decided on the dress, I quickly pushed it out of my head. Hints of the growing rebellion didn’t surface until my bachelorette party, when rogue ladies had the gall to want to buy silver shoes instead of purple. Now why wouldn’t anyone want to shell out money for a pair of lavender shoes? Oh, hindsight! It felt like the biggest drama in the world to me. This bridezilla got her way, but I still feel pretty silly about this, even today. The brunt of this reality (and, perhaps, buying the cheapest dyed lavender shoes) made for a very entertaining wedding video. My poor ladies, flushed with champagne and not enough food, discovered the presence of pothole after pothole in the grassy aisle leading up to the gazebo. Four bridesmaids, including my matron of honor, outright tripped down the aisle. Two bridesmaids concentrated so hard on not falling that their stony faces looked like they were headed toward their doom, not a ceremony marking the new life of their girlfriend. Another bridesmaid tripped down a concrete bridge on the way to pictures after the ceremony, suffering multiple scrapes. NEWSFLASH: Dried blood doesn’t coordinate well with lavender fabric. If I had a do-over, I’d probably just choose a dress color and let each bridesmaid go wild on her dress style. So long as the tulle train isn’t puffier than mine, I have nothing to complain about.
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