Wedding Guide by Siuslaw News

Wedding Guide

2018 Supplement to the Siuslaw News & Cottage Grove Sentinel

2018

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Wedding Guide

Featured Couple: Petersen Wedding ..............

Planning Your Honeymoon ................................

What to Look for in a Photographer ...........

Wedding & Bachelor/ette Party Costs ........

Engagement, Wedding and Valentine’s Day Jewelry

Florence Antiques & Coast Jewelers

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Ambrosia’s Cellar Room is the perfect place for a rehearsal dinner, family gathering or small wedding! For more information, contact Ambrosia’s Special Events Manager at 541.342.4141 or info@ambrosiarestaurant.com

Ask about o ur Gift Registry and Layaway Pla n

All Wedding Jewelry

20% OFF (offer good thru 3/1/2018)

Located in the Historic Broadway & Pearl District 174 E Broadway, Eugene Oregon • ambrosiarestaurant.com

1220 Bay Street #100 • Florence

541-997-8104

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On the Cover: Trent & Jenna Petersen

lorence residents Trent and Jenna Petersen tied the knot at Heceta Head Lighthouse on July 7, 2017. The stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and the historic Lightkeeper’s House made this the perfect choice for Jenna and Trent. The bride is the daughter of Jim and Carrie Hoberg and Eric and Joyce Rines, and the groom is the son of Dave and Jeanna Petersen, all of Florence. The bride’s party consisted of Tyler Shearer as man of honor and bridesmaids Angel Pishvai and Jamie Hoberg, the bride’s sister-in-law. The groomsmen were Bryce Petersen as best man for his brother, along with Kevin Cox, Cyrus Pishvai, Josh Coombs and Trevor Norton. Family friend Tyler Stephens, from Canada, officiated the ceremony and Curt Peters of Digital Dunes Photography in Florence took photos. A dinner reception was held at the Heceta Head Light House Bed and Breakfast immediately after the outdoor ceremony. Afterwards, Trent and Jenna embarked on their honeymoon, a cross-country roadtrip to Chicago. See page 6 for more photos of the bride and groom.

PHOTOS BY CURT PETERS/DIGITAL DUNES PHOTOGRAPHY

Angie’s Alterations

Flawless Wedding Arrangements

CUSTOM WEDDING AND FORMAL WEAR • ALTERATIONS 4005 Hwy. 101 #1 • Florence, OR 97439

Florence in Bloom om

Custom Sewing – Alterations – Repairs

Talk to our talented designers today about the right ﬂoral package for your wedding. Full Service Flower Shop

541-902-7231

Owners: Gary and Sharon Cargill

541-997-5391 1234 Rhododendron Dr Florence, OR. 97439

angiesalterations@hotmail.com

Angela Barrett ~ Lisa Spencer Affordable country weddings at our beautiful location!!

Shady Oaks

Winte wedd r ing start s at $100

It’s the Place to Be!!!

Contact shadyoaksplantsandproduce.com Stephanie

77380 Hwy 99 So, CG • 541-942-5004

Weddings by the Sea Mary Claire Cook On the beautiful Oregon coast, you choose the setting... A small log church, a lighthouse, a stone shelter high above Cape Perpetua, a clearing in the woods, under an old growth Sitka spruce, aboard a cruiser on a bay or river, atop a rocky shoreline... This is the place for a most special union. One that is yours and yours alone.

541-547-4547

toll free: 866-363-0041

Yachats, OR

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Tips to consider when choosing a honeymoon destination

Once couples have tied the knot, hit the reception dance floor and thanked their friends and family for joining them, their thoughts inevitably start looking ahead to their honeymoons. Statistics vary in regard to how much couples spend on their honeymoons, but those heading overseas can expect to pay thousands of dollars on such getaways. Couples planning their honeymoons want to get the most for their money while also ensuring their first trip together as newlyweds is as memorable as possible. The destination couples choose can go a long way toward making that happen, and people can consider various factors as they work together to choose a locale for their honeymoons. Activity level Some couples might want their honeymoons to be filled with activities, while others might prefer more low-key trips spent relaxing at seaside resorts. Couples can discuss which types of trips they prefer and be willing to compromise if their desires differ. Travel Some couples want to travel during

their honeymoons, while others may want to stay at the same resort for the duration of their trips. Couples who want to travel may find a backpacking trip to Europe is a romantic way to indulge their sense of adventure, while those who prefer something more quiet may find a beach resort more to their liking. Budget Budget is a strong consideration for many couples as they plan their honeymoons. Because honeymoons can be expensive, couples who don’t want to sacrifice on their first trip together as a married couple can begin planning their trips early, even looking for ways to cut costs on their ceremonies and receptions if their honeymoons are a bigger priority. When planning their honeymoons, couples also can take steps to save money. For example, delaying a trip until a few months after the wedding can help couples get back on their financial feet and enjoy their dream getaways. Couples visiting resorts also may want to opt for all-inclusive packages, which can provide great value, particularly on food and beverages. — Metro

Rustic bouquets add natural flair Couples opting to get back to basics, streamline their nuptials and create more intimate and less superficial affairs often gravitate toward rustic celebrations to showcase their ideals. Rustic weddings also may appeal to environmentalists and men and women who want their weddings to be as eco-friendly as possible. Rustic weddings may include those ceremonies and receptions that take place outdoors or in abodes, such as barns, wineries, castles, or converted silos or town factories. In fact, Bridal Guide says that barn weddings have never been more popular — among both urban and rural couples alike. Coordinating a rustic wedding may mean letting go of perceived notions of how everything from food to favors to flowers should be. In fact, one way to describe rustic weddings — and especially the floral arrangements that adorn them — is “purposely imperfect.” Rustic wedding bouquets may seem like they were plucked right out of the garden or grabbed through a stroll in a meadow. They’re rarely

symmetrical or feature the customary flowers of more formal wedding celebrations. When designing rustic bouquets, florists may keep the stems of wildflowers or other blooms untethered for a relaxed feel. Long stemmed arrangements are quite popular, and trends point toward bouquets that are loosely tied with raffia, twine, vines and other natural materials rather than more refined ribbon. Another way rustic bouquets set themselves apart is with the introduction of other elements into the arrangements. Not merely blooms and greenery, rustic pieces may feature twigs, vines, berries, scabiosa pods, ivy, and feathery ferns. The heights of elements in the bouquet are varied, and the bouquets will not have an overly uniform shape. Rustic bouquets are far from pretentious, and brides shouldn’t feel that these bouquets are delicate or will fall apart when handled. When planning a rustic wedding, couples can work with their florists to create bouquets and arrangements that fit with their visions. — Metro

Florence Antiques & Coast Jewelers offers engagement and Valentine’s Day jewelry L ocated at 1220 Bay St., Suite 100, Coast Jewelers is back in town to continue a decades-long tradition of offering fine engagement, wedding and Valentine’s Day jewelry. We proudly specialize in pre-owned and vintage estate jewelry (and higher end antiques) offered at very reasonable prices. Shop around town or even in Eugene or Coos Bay and you are sure to find that perfect piece of jewelry right here in Florence. Remember to Shop Local. Whether you are furnishing your home or looking for a wonderful, one-of-a-kind ring, necklace, brooch or bracelet in white or yellow gold or sterling silver we might just have exactly what you are looking for. During the month of February, all of our wedding and engagement rings for brides and grooms, or the upgrading of original wedding sets for that special anniversary, will be 20 percent off. As Liz Breon used to say, “You are unique and one of a kind, so your jewelry should be too!” Who you are, your life style and your dreams for the future all affect your choice of fine jewelry. Please come in anytime Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. (or by appointment) and enjoy our new location on Bay Street and the always pleasant experience of shopping in our store, voted “Florence’s Best” for the last two years. We hope that we offer a touch of class to you and our wonderful city of Florence.

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THE CASTLE ON THE HILL CELEBRATES A DAY OF LOVE

Find uncommon beauty at Big K E xperience the Big K Guest Ranch, the Kesterson Family’s Pacific Northwest resort, restaurant and historic 2,500acre Century Farm along the majestic Umpqua River in Elkton, Ore. For over 20 years, Big K has been giving its guests an unforgettable experience at the ranch. Nestled in the heart of the Umpqua River Loop, The Big K Guest Ranch offers something for everyone from hunting and fishing to relaxing weekend getaways, all complimented by home cooked meals and a warm family atmosphere. The elegant log lodge is ideal for cor-

poration retreats, family reunions, weddings and parties. There is a conference room, scenic floats and guided fishing and hunting — all in uncommon peace, serenity and beauty. Stay in our private cabins as a group, or for a couple’s weekend getaway. Each of the 20 spacious guest cabins features country-chic decor and free Wi-Fi access. Upgrade your cabin to the Country Suite and enjoy a gas fireplace, Jacuzzi tub and private balcony. Visit us at www.Big-K.com, call 541584-2295 or email lodge@big-k.com.

When is a museum not just a museum? When it’s a place to not just learn, but also create wonderful memories. All museums have this potential to impact lives, including the Shelton McMurphey Johnson House (SMJ) in Eugene. If you haven’t been to the grand Victorian on the south side of Skinner’s Butte recently, you are invited to check out their upcoming events and make some memories of your own. On Feb. 14, Eugene’s only Victorian House Museum is giving couples a chance to renew their vows in the Museum’s parlor, the very room that Alberta Shelton married Robert McMurphey in 1893. At 2 p.m., couples can celebrate their love with others in a group Vow Renew Ceremony. Each couple will be given wine, wedding (cup)cakes, a commemorative certificate and a digital photo by

BGEPhotography. Reservations are required as space is limited. Call 541-484-0808 to reserve your spot for this romantic event. Also on Valentine’s Day, SMJ is offering a special package for engaged couples looking for a small intimate wedding. If you want a simple, yet romantic ceremony that you don’t have to plan, this is for you! For only $150, an engaged couple with a marriage license and two witnesses will be invited to exchange their vows at SMJ by appointment on Feb.14 only. This will include an ordained minister, wine, wedding (cup)cakes, a commemorative certificate and a wedding photo by a professional photographer. To learn more about these events, or to plan your own event at SMJ House, call 541484-0808 or visit smjhouse.org to learn more about Eugene’s little piece of history.

The Big K Guest Ranch and Outfitters Elkton, Oregon

From rustic to elegant, cozy to adventurous! We offer 4 locations for your ideal indoor or outdoor Wedding Ceremony & Reception! On-site restaurant and catering. Private cabins available. Make an appointment for a free consultation today. Definitely worth the drive!!!

541-584-2295 • lodge@big-k.com • www.Big-K.com

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11 tips for choosing a wedding photographer

ost of your wedding day will be a blur — the cake, the flowers, the music, the food and drink — but the photographs will capture those lost or missed moments and live on forever. You owe it to your- self to do everything you can to make them fabulous. Here’s a guide how to not only find your perfect photographer, but how to work with them. 1. Ground Work Start Early — About a year before your wedding date, start your search by looking for photographers in the area of your wedding venue. Search online or ask for referrals from your wedding venue. Make phone calls to the ones you find to see if they are available for your date and are within your budget. Ask for their website to view galleries of weddings they have done so you can get a sense of their quality and style. 2. What Do You Want — As you review photographers and their photos, make note of key moments you want captured at your own wedding: Did this Photographer get great images that you like? Look for creative compositions and that the images and people are in focus with nicely blurred backgrounds. Make sure people look relaxed, and not startled by the camera or photographer. 3. Meet Your Photographer — You can’t pick a photographer based on just their sample photos or the price, you have to meet them. Once you have found some photographers whose work you like, try to set up an in-person meeting. You need to feel comfortable with your photographer because they’ll be capturing your every move on your wedding day. You need to like your photographer’s personality in order for them to do their best job. 4. Compare Photographer Packages — Packages should be spelled out exactly to what the photographer is offering, plus any additional fees that could be added. Consider: how many hours of shooting are included? What exactly do you get? Albums, books, photo CDs? Most packages include about four to eight hours and include everything from pre-ceremony getting ready to the live event, to cake and toast, to garter and bouquet, to first dance and finally until the end of the reception and party. It’s better to err with a package that allows more time than you think you need. Pay for more coverage, especially if you’re planning a big sendoff exit. 5. Book your Photographer — Since every professional photographer has a different style, technique and personality, you need to make sure the photographer you interviewed and “got on good with" will be the same one who photographs your wedding. The really good photographers book weddings eight to 12 months in advance. Popular spring and summer dates fill up quickly. Book your photographer as soon as you have chosen one. Booking usually requires a nonrefundable deposit to guarantee your date. The rest of the payment is usually required on or before the actual shoot day. 6. Ask For and Check References — Online reviews are great, and that should be part of your research, but once you’ve narrowed it down to a few photographers, ask to speak to a previous client or two. If you are able to speak with other previous clients, be sure to ask what they thought of the experience — from beginning to end. Ask if they were happy with the results of the photographs and any other products supplied.

PHOTOS BY CURT PETERS/DIGITAL DUNES PHOTOGRAPHY

By developing a rapport with their photographer, Trent and Jenna Petersen were able to preserve perfect moments from their special day at Heceta Head Lighthouse on July 7, 2017. 7. Get It In Writing — Once you’ve chosen your photogra- time to deal with mishaps. pher, get in writing everything included — from the date of 10. Plan Your “First Look” — Plan a “First Look” shoot the wedding and the times they’ll cover, to postproduction before the ceremony, where the photographer captures a work and how and when you’ll receive the final products. few intimate moments of just the two of you. Be sure to 8. Schedule an Engagement Shoot — Once you hire a plan on at least a few shots of the two of you together bephotographer, schedule an engagement shoot. This is an fore bringing in the rest of the wedding party. This is the opportunity to get comfortable with your photographer time when your hair and makeup are perfect. Your clothing while having your picture taken. This photo can be used is fresh and clean. Fewer guests have arrived. It’s a perfect for “Save the Date” announcements or invitations. It can be time for photos. used online for social media. It can be enlarged and printed 11. Be Aware of the Photographer — Look at the camera, and matted for guests to sign the mat at the reception. Plus, be aware where it is. Smile, Smile, Smile. Look into each it gives both you and the photographer a chance to interact other’s eyes while reading vows. Don’t hide your emotions. and give each other feedback. Laugh, enjoy and be happy. 9. Allow Extra Time in Schedule — On your special day, Don’t sweat the small stuff, like a reschedule of your eneverything will take longer than you think. Figure out gagement shoot because of rain or your bridesmaid melting a timeline and then allow 15 extra minutes than you fig- down during the toast, or family members playing hard to ured! Do this for things like getting your hair done, getting get during the group shots. dressed, the toast and cake cutting, the garter and bouquet Allow your photographer to help keep you on schedule toss and the group photos. and to corral your family members. Allowing for more time will alleviate any mishaps that Listen as they pick the locations, frame the shots and might happen. Misplaced wedding rings to grandma’s late know what will look best. That’s why you hired them. — arrival all take extra time. Make a schedule that leaves extra Submitted by Curt Peters of Digital Dunes Photography

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Tying T the knot

ExclBRIDAL usively • Gowns • Tuxedos • Flower Girls Dresses • Chair-Table Rentals and so much more...

101 East B. Avenue • Drain, Oregon • 541-836-2916 www.exclusivelybridal.net • ExclusivelyBridal@gmail.com

he phrase “tying the knot” is synonymous with getting married. Although the words can represent the symbolic joining of two lives together, in some cultures, getting married actually requires tying a knot. The custom traces its origins to an ancient Babylonian tradition in which threads from the clothes of both the bride and groom were tied in a knot to represent the couple’s union. Other cultures have embraced this tradition, and couples often tie ceremonial knots during their wedding ceremonies.

~ Opening Summer, 2018 ~

A unique setting for Weddings Receptions Showers Rehearsal Dinners Engagement Parties and more...

2915 Row River Rd., Cottage Grove OR cottageevents.com • 541-942-6888

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Cottage Events Venue anticipates summer 2018 grand opening

This summer, Cottage Grove will have a new and unique venue for parties of all kinds, including all the parties that go along with a joyous wedding celebration. Weddings, receptions, wedding showers, bachelor and bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners and receptions ... there are so many ways to celebrate the happy couple! The Cottage Events Venue can be the perfect spot for your special times together. “I can’t wait to get the parties started,” says owner Kim Still, “I really love helping people come together to enjoy each other’s company, celebrating love and life.” Still has over 25 years of experience in events management and is happy to help with party planning, including decorating

ideas and helping to find the right caterers and musicians. The Cottage is just right for parties of up to 100 guests, and is fully equipped with kitchen facilities, banquet tables and chairs, and table settings. The unique floor layout features a zig-zagging wall of south facing windows that makes it feel comfortable and intimate for even small groups. The building was designed as a passively heated solar building, and that wall of windows on the south side provides plenty of natural light. The Cottage Events Venue is located at 2915 Row River Rd, in the former Cottage Restaurant building. For information, pricing and booking, contact Still at 541-9426888 or visit www.cottageevents.com.

1712 Willamette St. Eugene, OR 97477 (503) 505-8450

Celebrating creative wedding accessories for every bride

Mona Beads is proud to present unique and alluring options for brides, grooms, their bridal parties, family and friends. We offer the ability to handcraft your own tiaras, crowns, hair pieces, hair fascinators, goddess necklaces, gemstone fae designed accessories, mala accessories for groomsmen, small prayer bead wedding favors and anything your imagination can conjure up. At Mona’s, we love creative and original person-centered expression and would be honored to help you create the perfect accessories for the wedding of your dreams. As one of the most extraordinary bead stores in Oregon, we not only offer an enormous and vibrant collection of precious and semi-precious gemstones, crystal and glass, wire and findings in precious and semi-precious metals, we also showcase

and enthusiastically support over 100+ local artists and jewelry makers. In addition, we also do simple and complex repairs, provide classes, workshops and work with local charities to help provide a place for creative expression and connection. We are located at 1712 Willamette St., Eugene, Ore. Our building is owned by the founder of Euphoria Chocolate and has been a Eugene icon, living through many incarnations. Fun Fact: It once housed the film production company run by Kesey’s Merry Pranksters, who helped provide extras for the movies “Animal House” and “Stand By Me.” We are open Tuesdays through Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.monabeads.com or call 541-505-8450.

Ambrosia Restaurant’s Cellar Room available for spring & summer weddings

or 30 years, Ambrosia Restaurant and Bar, 174 E Broadway, Eugene, Ore., has been a romantic setting for first dates and anniversaries. The restaurant’s Cellar Room has also been the perfect place for a rehearsal dinner, family gathering or a small wedding! The room features a mural of a wine cellar and comfortably accommodates up to 45 people for a sit-down dinner; more for a cocktail party-style event. The popular private dining room is now taking reservations for spring and summer events.

Food can be ordered from Ambrosia’s regular, regional Italian fare, or the kitchen staff take special requests. In addition to a full bar, Ambrosia’s sommelier is available to help with wine selection. Wait staff dedicated to the Cellar Room assures attentive service throughout an event. For more information, download the Private Dining Brochure at www.ambrosiarestaurant.com. To book your reservation, contact Ambrosia’s Special Events Manager at 541342-4141 or info@ambrosiarestaurant.com.

graphic design by:

wmoke designs

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Saying ‘I Do’ at the Florence Events Center D ozens of people select the Florence Events Center for their weddings and receptions each year. Some of these are small, intimate gatherings and others are grand affairs. Whatever format you choose, our staff knows how to make your special day a unique celebration designed especially for you.

Our goal is to create a serene atmosphere so that you can relax and enjoy the festivities without the stress that sometimes occurs at these events. We’re here to help with everything from flowers and food to music for dancing. We have more than 8,000 square feet of event space, and we can configure it any way you like. Choose round, banquet or bistro tables, with linens in colors to match your theme. We have dance floors and stages in a variety of sizes, and lighting to create special effects. Our audio and visual equipment is available for any

special presentations you have in mind, including for offsite rentals. Perhaps you’re dreaming of a beach wedding to take advantage of our special brand of coastal beauty, or perhaps you’ve already selected a private residence or other venue. All of our equipment is available for off-site rental to accommodate your needs. The Florence Events Center provides quality, creative

space and a staff committed to first-class service. We will work with your ideas and budget to create a memorable celebration for your “I Do” day. Start with a tour of our facility, 715 Quince St., so we can discuss your plans in person. Call the Florence Events Center at 541-997-1994 for an appointment. Check out our wedding album at www.eventcenter. org.

From their family to yours — make memories with Beaudet Jewelry

Cottage Grove’s Premier Florist Since 1984 Let us help you with Flowers & Plants

Oregon Grown Roses • Large selection of Quality Fresh Cut Flowers Premium Blooming and Green Plants • Creative Floral Design for all Occasions Fresh & Silk Floral Arrangements

Clothing Boutique

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Serving the Cottage Grove Area since 1984 • Over 75 years of combined Floral Design Experience • Friendly and Professional Staff to serve you • Delivery available • Flowers by wire anywhere

Open Monday through Saturday at 9:00 am

119 S. 6th Street, Cottage Grove 541-942-0505 www.cottagegroveflowerbasket.com

Beaudet Jewelry, 2849 Oak St. in Eugene, human rights. It supports a scholarship Ore., is a truly personal jewelry store that program in Botswana where diamonds are feels like a gallery but is as comfortable as sourced responsibly and keeps in touch with home. Ideas and edumine owners and cutcation flow from ev“I incorporate my knowl- ters who feel the same. eryone working there, The cutter in Sri Lanka edge of metal and architec- does not mine for the and the store offers a ture to create pieces that fit gemstones but picks vast selection of loose gemstones that range the lifestyle of the wearer through the gravel beds from the expected to under waterfalls after and are more durable.” the rare. One example the monsoons. — Charles M. Beaudet, is a very large selection Jeweler Charles Besecond generation jeweler audet travels to Antof Sapphires sourced from a personal friend werp, Belgium, to perin Sri Lanka. These come in all colors from sonally select important diamonds. a vibrant blue to the stunning orangish pink “My father taught me how personal jewPadparache. Beaudet Jewelry has birthstones elry can be,” said Andrew R. Beaudet, third that can be mounted quickly into a pair of generation jeweler. “He says jewelry is a earrings or a pendant, or custom designed touchstone that can bridge generations and into a truly one of a kind personal treasure. lives. I carry that philosophy as well as unBeaudet Jewelry is known as a generous derstanding the excitement of new gemsupporter of the community through Rotary stones, metals and ideas.” International, The Eugene Symphony, WomFor repair, restoration, custom design, an Space, Ophelia’s Place and over a dozen gemstone location, appraising and as a other charities. knowledge base, Beaudet Jewelry is a fullBeaudet Jewelry is aware and up to date on service jewelry store serving Lane County world sources and issues. since 1976. The Beaudet family is not a late comer For more information, call 541-484-6548 to the environmental issues of mining or or visit www.beaudetjewelry.com.

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Find luxury transportation with Eugene’s My Party Bus

My Party Bus is a leading party bus limo service in Eugene, Ore., and is committed to offering unique transportation at the best possible price. Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life and we want to make it a memorable one. If you are looking for luxury transportation that is on time, professional and courteous, then look no further than My Party Bus. Whether you need a single ride to the ceremony or reception, all-day service for you and your wedding party or transportation to your local honeymoon destination, we are here to take care of all your needs. Let My Party Bus take the worry out of your wedding day. We have a unique 20-passenger limo style party bus and access to an 8-passenger limo, as well as other larger party buses, to get all those guests from their hotel to the venue safely.

If you are planning a bachelor/bachelorette party with a winery, brewery or restaurant tour or want to include the family as a reunion, depend on our luxury limo party bus to get you there in class, style and comfort. We provide a safe, certified and sober driver. You can bring your own drinks, snacks and music to play on our state-of-the-art stereo system. We provide ice, bottled water, wine and beer openers, cups and wine glasses. With door to door convenience, we can pick up and drop off at most places, and the sound system with safety pole is guaranteed to get everyone out of their seat and dancing. Check us out online at www.my-partybus. net, www.Facebook.com/MyPartyBusLimo or on Instagram at mypartybus. For more information, call 541-554-7979 or email sean@my-partybus.net.

The Flower Basket in Cottage Grove offers tips for finding good florists The Flower Basket Clothing & Gift Boutique has been in business since 1984 and would like to be your florist in the Cottage Grove area. It has a design staff with more than 75 years of combined experience to create just the right arrangements for any upcoming occasion. Friendly staff would like to welcome you into the store and help you with all of your floral and gift needs. Here is a selection of tips for choosing your own florist: • Look for a florist with quality products and good selection. The flowers should be fresh, the colors should be rich and the plants should look healthy. A florist with a larger stock of flowers normally rotates their flowers more often to keep fresher products on hand. • A good florist is highly creative. Their artistic expression should show throughout the shop. • Aside from creativity, a good florist also knows how to establish a relationship with you, the customer. Your personal florists will normally be involved in many significant times in your life such as weddings, proms, births and deaths. When you establish this type of relationship with your florist, they

will be able to help you during these happy and sad times with good advice. • A good florist should remember the types of bouquets or arrangements you prefer and also keep track of your occasions and addresses with the help of modern floral technology. • Another vital part of the business is the service. The florist must have their establishment at a location that is clean and easily accessible, and they should be open at convenient hours. • A florist should also have a professional opinion ready, just in case customers have a hard time deciding what they want. In addition to having quality flowers, a florist should have other products available, such as decorative containers, vases, plants, home décor items and other gifts. • A great florist will have years of experience and many returning customers. It’s really great to find an exceptional florist that you can always come back to whenever the occasion calls for it. For more information, call The Flower Basket at 541-942-0505, stop by 119 S Sixth St. in Cottage Grove or visit online at www. cottagegroveflowerbasket.com.

Victorian Valentine Day Wedding Special! February 14, 2018 All Packages include:

Eugene, OR

Phone: 541-554-7979

sean@my-partybus.net

www.my-partybus.net

Professional Photographed Wedding Digital Picture (5 x 8) Rose, Cupcakes, Champaign and a Certificate! Wedding performed by an Ordained Officiant Leah Murray

Victorian Mini Wedding Special Packages

Couples + 2 witnesses 1/2 hour time slot starting at 11 am to 1pm and 3pm to 6 pm

Step Back in Time Vow Renewal

Shelton McMurphey Johnson House

The Castle on the Hill: A museum and more in the heart of Eugene. 303 Willamette St. off 3rd & Pearl. Eugene, Or 97401 541-484-0808 smjhouse.org

Group Vow Renewal from 2pm - 3pm Limited space so reserve now- couples only Harpist will be accompanying the ceremony

THE LEADING LUXURY TRANSPORTATION IN LANE COUNTY Our luxury limo bus is your ticket to a good time. From wine and brewery tours to weddings, birthdays or just a night out on the town, we’re here to provide you with a safe and fun ride in the style and comfort you deserve. MyPartyBusLimo |

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Affordable bachelor and bachelorette party ideas Pulling out all the stops can be exciting, but there’s no guarantee these types of parties will be more enjoyable than simpler bachelor or bachelorette party. Taking steps to control costs can help couples and their friends. Here are some affordable ideas that can be fun for all involved. • Bar or winery crawl: Partygoers typically want to enjoy a night out on the town, and traveling from one establishment to another can be a fun way to do just that. People can set themselves apart with a signature item (hat, T-shirt, or colored clothing), and make the rounds. • Attend a group event: Group events include sports, concerts, theater shows or a night at a comedy club. Investigate discounted tickets for large groups. • Belt out the tunes: Open mic nights at restaurants, bars and other establishments around town may make for a fun way for friends to share a few laughs together. Participants need not be professional singers to join in on the festivities. • Camp out: Get in touch with nature by enjoying a camping trip, complete with a fire and a few brews. Spending time in the wilderness can restore focus and let stress melt away. • Poker or game night: Groups can gather around the poker table to test their skills in poker and other card games. With some free-flowing beverages and snacks galore, games can get pretty animated. • Dinner party: Hire a chef to visit your house and prepare a meal for guests. Serve a signature cocktail and let the conversation flow.

JANUARY 2018 0 WEDDING GUIDE 0 11

Wedding costs: What to expect

Newly engaged couples may experience an array of emotions when they sit down to plan their weddings. Some couples cannot wait to jump into planning and want to catalog every aspect of the process, while others may proceed with caution because they don’t know what to expect — particularly in regard to cost. Many couples find it difficult to create their wedding budgets because they have no previous experience to draw on. The wedding planning advisor CostofWedding.com indicates the average wedding cost in the United States is $26,720, with most people spending between $20,000 and $34,000. Seventh Heaven Event Catering states that, in Canada, the average wedding costs around $30,000. Such costs can vary greatly depending on couples’ preferences, including where they hope to tie the knot. By breaking down wedding expenses, couples can get a clearer picture of how much they may need to pay for their weddings and where they may

Pop the question with a diamond

need to cut costs. • Reception site: According to The Knot, a premiere wedding planning resource, couples can expect their receptions to eat up the largest chunk of their wedding budgets. Wedding reception venues may cost between $10,000 and $15,000. The average price for catering per person is roughly $70. Bar service may be around $2,000 for a three- to four-hour party. Some reception sites combine the room cost with the food and beverage costs, while others have à la carte fees. • Cake: Wedding cakes tend to be multitiered intricate designs, so they will cost more than birthday cakes. According to Statistics Brain, wedding dessert will come in around $390. • Music: The Knot says wedding bands cost around $3,500, which is more than twice as much as hiring a deejay ($1,200). Soloists or ceremony musicians may cost around $650. • Wedding planner: Many couples employ wedding planners to make planning their weddings easier. Wed-

ding planners cost an average of $1,300, says Thumbtack, a company that matches professionals with people who require their services. • Transportation: Limousines and other transportation prices vary depending on the vehicle(s) couples choose. The Knot notes that budgeting between $400 and $500 for transportation might be wise. • Wedding gown: Brides-to-be should expect their gowns to cost around $1,100 and the veil or headpiece to be roughly $120, according to the Association of Bridal Consultants. • Photography and Video: Preserving wedding day memories costs around $2,800 for video and photography services, based on data from Statistics Brain. The smaller details, such as accessories, gifts, officiant fees, stationery, spa services and favors can quickly add up as well. Couples should be sure to leave some wiggle room in their budgets for incidental expenses that may pop up. — Metro

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12 0 WEDDING GUIDE 0 JANUARY 2018

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