Bridal Guide 2012 by Skagit Publishing

Bridal Guide

2012

A supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald and Anacortes American

2Twelve Photography

Bridal Guide & Planner editor Craig Parrish

Advertising director Mark Dobie mdobie@skagitpublishing.com

Display Advertising Manager Deb Bundy dbundy@skagitpublishing.com | 360.416.2126

advertising operations manager Sarah Hickman shickman@skagitpublishing.com

advertising operations

2Twelve Photography

Valley Portrait Photography

Contents

A Picture Perfect You............................................................ 4-5 Your Wedding Attire Tells A Story About Both of You......... 6-7 Cakes Simple and Slightly Perfect........................................ 8-9 Flowers Coming up Roses..................................................... 10 Before You Say ‘I Do’ say ‘I Did’ Checklist.......................... 12 Location, Location, Location................................................. 13 Floral Checklist...................................................................... 14 Photographer Info Worksheet..................................................15 Ceremony Music Worksheet................................................... 16 Honeymoon Info Worksheet................................................... 17 Make it Legal.......................................................................... 18 After the Wedding?................................................................. 18 goskagit.com

Cover Photograph: 2Twelve Photography

20112 Bridal Guide & Planner

Jody Hendrix, Abby Jackson, Jenny Overman, Christina Poisal, Patricia StowelL, Dana PERRY

photographer scott terrell

design & layout Katie ERICKSON

Advertising consultants Linda Fahnlander linda@skagitpublishing.com Stephanie Harper sharper@skagitpublishing.com Marcus McCoy mmccoy@skagitpublishing.com Michelle O’Donnell modonnell@skagitpublishing.com Kathy Schultz kschultz@skagitpublishing.com Katie Sundermeyer ksundermeyer@skagitpublishing.com Paul Tinnon ptinnon@skagitpublishing.com John Williams jwilliams@skagitpublishing.com

A Picture Perfect You

Valley Portrait Photography 419 Commercial Ave. Anacortes, WA 98221

to the health and look of your face and skin leading up to the big day? BY JOAN PHILLIPS Considering the many photo opporCascade Cosmetic Center tunities that will focus on your face, You, your partner and even your family beginning with your engagement announcement, the bridal showers and the will spend countless hours planning for the perfect wedding. For weeks and wedding itself, you will want your skin looking its very best. months in advance the dresses, venue, Brides will want to glow, grooms will flowers and guest list will be decided want to look polished and parents will upon down to the smallest detail. But how much attention will you give want to look refreshed and more youthful. After the wedding your photos will be shared and remembered for many years as anniversaries, holidays and family events are celebrated. For a face that has a picture-perfect look, good skin care should begin up to six months before any special event. If you are pressed for time, there are treatments that can be done in the weeks prior to give you a look that is reflective of how good you feel inside. For skin types that are affected by stress 877-370-0100 360-299-1400 www.majesticinnandspa.com with such conditions as rosacea or acne breakouts, it is especially important that your skin care regimen begin as soon as possible to help minimize any flare-ups you may encounter. Consider the following tips and treatments for glowing, youthful, and radiant skin for all members of the wedding party: Skin care products that are sold through a professional esthetician are often of physician grade and can provide quicker and better results than most

RUMOURS HAIR DESIGN Debbie Rasar Stylist

For all your Bridal Needs

~360-424-4247~ 2207 LAVENTURE, MT. VERNON

2012 Bridal Guide & Planner

goskagit.com

over-the-counter products. Many estheticians offer free skin care analysis as part of their service and can monitor your progress while making recommendations. Chemical peels are used on the face to remove the skin’s surface of dull and old skin cells. These old cells keep the face from having a glowing, radiant look as well as prevent corrective skin care prod-ucts from penetrating deep into the skin’s epidermal layers. Peels are also useful for minimizing brown age spots and improving acne. Chemical peels can and should be customized to each person’s skin type. Skin resurfacing is a great laser treatment for those who have experienced excessive sun or environmental exposure, have acne scarring or who just want to refresh the skin’s surface with new cell growth from the inside out.

Brow shaping can dramatically change the look of one’s face. This inexpensive treatment (averaging $20) can bring balance to the eyes as well as enhance the expressions we make. Minimize wrinkles, folds and fine lines quickly with neurotoxins such as Botox Cosmetics and with dermal fillers such as Restylane, Juvederm or Radiesse. The use of these treatments can provide almost instant results and although they are temporary, lasting 4 to 12 months, they can take years off a person’s look. Facial lifts, including the eyes, can offer more dramatic and permanent results that other less invasive procedures can. With proper planning and use of local or general anesthesia, a mother or father of the bride and groom could look and feel years younger for the wedding and beyond.

A beautiful you on your special day! A Picture Perfect You

for a day that will be captured in photos & remembered for a lifetime and more. Let the skincare specialists at the Cascade Cosmetic Center help all the members of your wedding party achieve beautiful, flawless skin. Look younger, more vibrant & refreshed. Services include skin care, lasers & surgery. Hours available: Mon and Fri 9 am to 6 pm Tues, Wed, Thurs 9 am to 8 pm Saturdays 9 am to 4 pm

111 S. 12th Street, St A, Mount Vernon, WA 98274 Limited services available at 1019 24th Street, St B, Anacortes, WA 98221

360-336-1947 goskagit.com

2012 Bridal Guide & Planner

www.cascadecosmetic.com 5

Second Course A Wedding Third Course Fantastic Catering by Avenue Catering, Skagit County’s Premier Catering Company Voted Best Caterer again in 2012!

360-755-5880

www.cateringbyavenue.com

Amy Parsons Photography

First Course Two People in Love

2Twelve Photography

Wedding Menu

Your Wedding Attire Tells a Story About Both of You BY PAM NEEDHAM Alicia’s Bridal & The Formal House

Some women have been thinking about their wedding dress their entire life, and some haven’t! Whichever category you fall into, you definitely want to feel beautiful on your wedding day. Looking at pictures online or in magazines can get you started. We have all of our gowns on our website, but check out different designers’ sites (Pinterest, The Knot, etc.) to get ideas. Even if it isn’t the dress, bring in pictures you have found to the bridal shop to see so they can get a feel for your personality. Pick out some to try on but definitely try on some they suggest. They are trained to listen to you and can help immensely when you are finding the perfect dress. They won’t take it personally if you don’t like it, but try it on anyway, you may be completely surprised and fall in love. There are many things full-service shops can do for you as well, like add

The Perfect Place for your Perfect Day visit www.grandwillow.com for over 400 photos Mount Vernon, WA • 360-428-5071

cap sleeves, change a neckline and more; so try on dresses, even if they are not exactly what you think you want. Finding your dream dress takes time, so make sure to get something to eat before you come, and bring your mom or a couple of close friends with you. Too many opinions can be difficult for you to process, since everyone has their own style and taste. Bring someone that knows your style and will support you in your decision. It’s supposed to be a really fun day so don’t be worried or stressed, just enjoy it! Keep in mind that most wedding dresses will need to be ordered and will take time to arrive. If the dress is the right size and color, you sometimes can buy out of stock. If not, allow yourself at least seven months for ordering time, shipping, fittings, and alterations. Don’t panic if you don’t have that much time; some designers have dresses available in stock. Now you have found your dress, and the rest of the wedding party awaits. Finding bridesmaids dresses to coordinte and accentuate your gown is your goal. We have so much fun putting

The

Grand Willow

Valley Portrait Photography

2Twelve Photography

together a look based on what you like. Picking a dress (or several dress styles) for your girls to wear in the same color are just two of the options. Look at photographers’ pictures online to see some examples and see what appeals to you. Weddings today are less about etiquette, and more an expression of your personality. Timeline Give yourself time so you can avoid a rush; typically five months for ordering, shipping, fittings and alterations. If you have out-of-town bridesmaids, we can always ship their dresses when they arrive in the store. Mothers on both sides of the family will likely want a beautiful dress too. The color typically shouldn’t match the bridesmaids, but be complementary. The time frame for ordering is about the same as bridesmaids, so don’t let your mom procrastinate. Keep in mind, if you have a daughter that is a bridesmaid there will be a family photo. Otherwise there are few shots with the whole bridal party and parents. After all, it’s a big day for them as well. This is one of the few times in life you get to take an amazing family photo, so

take advantage of it! Now that your side of the wedding party looks amazing, you want to make sure the guys shine as well. There are lots of choices for men but much easier ones. Keep in mind the formality of your dress when you decide on tuxedos, suits, etc. Again, photographer pictures are a great way to see the look you want for your day. If your dress is very formal, then I wouldn’t suggest the men dress in khakis, or the look will be too different. If it’s a destination wedding, a suit in a lighter color with a jacket they can remove is a great way to go. We can coordinate the color scheme with your dress and the bridesmaids’ dresses as well. You don’t have to match the bridesmaids’ dresses; in fact, sometimes bringing in another complementary color is a good way to go. Since everything is right here in our store, it makes it easy to picture everything together. We get a little crazy making you happy, so congratulations on your engagement, and we hope to see you soon!

Order your wedding flowers direct from the grower! Our beautiful flowers are easy to work with. Choose from: Tulips • Lilies • Iris • Daffodils

Open 7 days a week

Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9am to 6pm Sundays/Holidays, 11am to 4pm 15867 Beaver Marsh Rd Mount Vernon

360.424.8531

Visit our wedding section at

www.tulips.com

Cakes Simple and Slightly Perfect BY ANNA SACHSE Xtra Special Cakes

Sure, towering tiers of woven fondant blooming with hand-formed sugar flowers and topped with a chocolate diorama of the city where you live make for quite a spectacle, but they can also take up a sizeable portion of your wedding budget. Instead, consider opting for a simple or rustic chic design and make the actual cake what’s inside the star of your big-day dessert. By focusing on fantastic flavor instead of overthe-top flair, not only will you save money, you’ll have a nice cake that you actually want to eat, too. Design Within Reach A simple design doesn’t mean you have to forfeit character or style, it just means making smart choices. If you want to make a bold statement, for example, pass on the expensive techniques like detailed piping or elaborate monograms and look to color, suggests Sally Kilbridge, deputy editor of Brides magazine. A brilliant orange cake with simple white stripes would be stunning. For a more rustic feel, fresh flowers are a perfect fit and will be less expensive than sug

ar, gum-paste or marzipan versions, Kilbridge adds. Oversized blossoms or branches with tiny buds look especially chic, but whatever you choose, ask your florist first to be sure your flora is nontoxic and pesticide-free. Other sweet decorative options include: fresh fruit, such as berries, champagne grapes, miniature pears, plums or apricots arranged around tiers enrobed in a softly-rough cream cheese frosting that evokes tree bark; feathery ferns fanning up from the cake’s base; or, for a beach wedding, small (and thoroughly cleaned) pebbles or seashells arranged in a pattern on smooth, white buttercream. Local bakery owner Roxann Clark said the nearby sea has an influence on what brides want. Clark has owned Mount Vernon’s Xtra Special Cakes for 16 years and has delivered cakes to weddings from the Oregon border north to the Canadian border. People tend to do things beach-related, she said. especially if they are having a wedding in Anacortes or Oak Harbor. Tulips are also used a little bit because of the tulips that we grow. Brides are also looking for clean lines instead of cakes gussied up with garlands or flowers, Clark said. You can also opt to forgo the icing altogether and simply showcase the colorful layers of cake

Just Weddings A Catering Company “fine event catering with a casual flair” Perette Kinser Sr. Event Planner Direct 360-421-4126 Email PKinser@Juswed.com www Juswed.com 8

2012 Bridal Guide & Planner

and filling like the famous frosting-free tiers from Momofuku’s Milk Bar in New York City. Marilyn DeVault, owner of Portland, Ore.-based Piece of Cake Bakery, has done an elegant version topped with fresh strawberries swirled in white chocolate. Can’t imagine cake without frosting but still want your wedding sweets to be unique? DeVault recommends playing around with size: Consider a spread of three single-tier cakes in your favorite flavors, a smaller two-tier cake paired with luscious fruit pies, or a simple three-tier cake that looks grand thanks to risers that augment the height. Or you can just concentrate on decorating the table on which your simple cake sits, suggests Kara Buntin, owner of Richmond, Va.-based A Cake to Remember. Teapots filled with flowers, mason jars filled with sparklers, mismatched vintage votive holders and slices of trees that serve as cake stands are all great options. Clark said brides should order cakes up to six months ahead of the wedding. In early January, she said she took a call for an August wedding. It’s more about having space to do their cake and not having too many customers on that particular day, she said.

Guidance Through Life Rev. Margarett Mae Non-Denominational Ceremonies

* Your Ceremony * Your Way * Any Where

360-435-0799 www.GuidanceThroughLife.com goskagit.com

Impeccable Taste Even if your cake is about $19,800 cheaper than Kim Kardashian’s $20K treat, you’re wasting your money if it doesn’t taste good; all you’ve done is pay for a lot of cake that nobody wants to eat, Buntin says. To prevent a flavor fiasco, Buntin advises asking bakers if they use pre-weighed dry ingredients (i.e. a cake mix) and if they make their own fillings and buttercream. Pre-made components are usually more chemical than natural, and the taste reflects that. In addition, she recommends asking background questions, such as how many years of experience the baker has, if they went to culinary school for pastry, and if they will bake and decorate the cake themselves or if a staff person will handle it. You’ll also want to ask about what flavors they offer and, if applicable, whether or not they can accommodate special dietary needs. Piece of Cake Bakery, for example, specializes in gourmet vegan, wheat-free, glutenfree, and sugar-free wedding cakes that come in flavors that are just as tasty and varied as normal cakes: Think red velvet, lemon, coconut,chocolate raspberry, chocolate mint, chocolate peanut butter, blueberry and pumpkin. Of course, tastings are a helpful (and fun!)

Xtra Special Cakes 919 W. Division St. Mount Vernon

(360) 428.4831

way to find more interesting flavor profiles and the most delicious cake, but there may be a fee involved, warns Kilbridge. As an alternative, she suggests selecting a bakery that you already love; chances are the cake will taste fantastic and since you’re going for a simple or rustic look anyway, it isn’t necessary that they be pros with a pastry bag. Budget Basics Just because a cake seems simple, it won’t necessarily be lower in cost; a three-tier Momofuku cake that serves 60 to 75 people starts at $400, for example, even without frosting. If budget is a concern of yours, keep in mind that buttercream is typically less expensive than fondant because it requires less work,

says Kilbridge. Just be sure the cake stays refrigerated until it’s time to cut it, as a melted cake isn’t a bargain at any price. You’ll also want to note that while most bakers will charge more for liqueurs, additional fillings, fancy techniques and off-the-menu flavors, some will actually charge extra for every change to a yellow cake batter or anything other than basic border piping, Buntin says. She advises shopping around and warns against ordering too much; you only need servings for about 80 percent of your guests, as some folks don’t eat cake and others will leave before it’s cut. But the best thing you can do is tell a baker what your budget is and ask what they can do to help you stay within it.

e d i n gt i o n s e c x E pecta ex u yo r

Sche for 2 dule N 012 E ow vents

Reserve Our Elegant & Intimate Venue for your Private Event Specializing in tiered wedding cakes by Premier Northwest Cake Designer Erin Yount www.LeCremacakes.blogspot.com 913 6th Street Anacortes 360.299.CAKE (2253) Located next to the post office

2012 Bridal Guide & Planner

goskagit.com

Flowers Coming Up Roses

the classic closet piece, roses just always work. “They have become this really standard thing that you see--but not just boring red roses,” says Bailey, author of the new book “Preston Bailey Flowers” (Rizzoli, 2011). But ubiquity doesn’t mean they can’t serve as wedding florals. In fact, it’s an invitation to. It just means taking the rose and using it in an unexpected way, Bailey says. Bouquets, Bouts and Centerpieces In a world of hydrangeas and gerbera daisies, a bouquet of white or cream roses

might seem unexpected enough, but Bailey also likes the idea of incorporating a little bit of bling to add another dimension. “Just With so many colors and varieties, roses are a true classic that always shine -especially for weddings. Preston add a little crystal to them, so whenever Bailey, author of “Preston Bailey Flowers,” opens up the bride is walking down the aisle she has a about the little black dress of wedding flowers little extra sparkle,” Bailey says. BY TIMOTHY R. SCHULTE For boutonnieres, the rose blossom Some things are perennially en vogue. should stay in proportion to the lapel on Like roses. The iconic floral may have a the groom’s jacket. For a slimmer lapel, reputation for red, but it’s the versatility in that means peeling the petals to get it to the its vast spectrum of varieties that led floral right size, or just not allowing the bloom couturier, Preston Bailey, to dub the rose to open as fully. With centerpieces, Bailey “the little black dress of floral design.” Like likes to go high and low on tables -”it gives the room a lot of movement.” He even suggests creating different designs for different Rent this waterfront facility! tables; that way, guests get to see different Historic Port of Anacortes Pier 1 “Transit Shed” arrangements. Located on Guemes Channel with view of San Juan Islands • Seating for 350 Dashes of Drama Holiday Parties • Dock Access The escort card table is a great place to Conferences • Restrooms add a dramatic statement with flowers. One • Dance Floor Option Community Events • Handicap Accessible method Bailey has found effective is to tie a Company Parties rose so that it can be worn as a corsage, and Wedding Receptions Family Reunions placing it next to the card. When women Team Parties take their card, they also get a keepsake they can wear. A similar touch, if the event has valet parking, is to have the valet attendant simply www.portofanacortes.com hand women a rose at the end of the evening. “It’s just a nice, special touch,” Bailey says. Color Coordination The standard of what roses represent is romance, says Bailey, but the color of the rose is what really exudes a mood. The vibrants – hot pink and fuchsia roses – are all about celebration. “It just says party, it says passion, all the great things,” Bailey says. Lavender and purple roses imbue an air of softness; cream and white roses, elegance. Apricot or peach roses strike a balance; not passionate, not understated. Generations have selected their engagement and wedding Bailey’s one rule on color: monochromarings as well as fine dinnerware and crystal at Burton Jewelers. tism. “I tend to like them in bunches of the We feature Canadian fine diamonds, custom designs and same color,” he says. “I’m not big on mixing.” Take it Slow quality for you and for your home. Bailey’s secret for fantasic-looking roses? Let them open slowly. Select from famous brands -- Waterford Crystal, Wedgwood, “Get them at least seven days before [the Pickard, Reed and Barton, and a superior collection of Lenox event],” he says. “The idea is that they want China and Dansk Designs with these at special prices for you. to be as fully open as possible on the day they’re being used.” When tending to them, be very careful in removing leaves from the stem, Bailey 7TH & COMMERCIAL • ANACORTES warns. Like a straw, if you puncture the 293-6469 stem, it won’t get any oxygen, which will TOLL-FREE 1-888-293-6469 prevent it from opening properly. Beyond  HOURS  that, give them a daily dose of clean, tepid Monday - Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. water, and they should be ready to go.

Call (360) 293-3134 for details

VALUED WEDDING GIFTS SINCE 1930

ewelers since 1930

2012 Bridal Guide & Planner

goskagit.com

20112 Bridal Guide & Planner

before you say ‘i do,’ 9 to 12 months out:

 Announce your engagement!  Pick a date for your wedding.  Decide on your wedding style – large or small, indoors or out, black tie or barefoot.  Decide on and set a budget.  Set up a folder to keep receipts and a ledger to help you stay on budget.  Establish a guest list.  Reserve your ceremony site.  Book your officiant.  Reserve your reception site.  Book your photographer.  Choose your color scheme.  Book your florist.  Reserve your band or DJ.  Book your photographer.  Go shopping! Find and order your wedding gown, veil and accessories.  Choose your maid of honor, best man, bridesmaids, groomsmen and ushers.  Apply for a passport and visa if you’ll need them for the honeymoon.

6 to 9 months out:

 Choose your flower girl and ring bearer.  Reserve your wedding night suite. Sweet!  Choose your bridesmaids’ attire – dresses, shoes and accessories.  Go for tastings and book your caterer.  Order wedding invitations.

 Order room decorations.  Shop for honeymoon attire.  Book transportation for the wedding day.  Check marriage license requirements.  Order your wedding bands.  Consider having your teeth bleached.  Plan pre- and post-wedding activities for your out-of-town guests.  Buy gifts for your bridal party.

6 to 8 weeks out:

 Mail your invitations.  Record the RSVPs on your wedding guest spreadsheet.  Start sending thank-you cards to early gifters.  Schedule your nail appointment.  Buy toasting glasses, a cake, knife, a ring pillow, a guest book, etc.  Reserve wedding attire for the groom, groomsmen, ushers, father of the bride and ring bearer.  Mail rehearsal dinner invitations.  Get your marriage license.  Find the proverbial “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue and a sixpence for your shoe.”  Finalize your menu and beverage order.

 Plan your reception room layout and seating arrangement.

The final week:

 Breathe.  Pick up your wedding attire and make sure everything fits.  Tell your caterer the final guest count.  Confirm with your photographer, musicians, clergy, florist, caterer and reception facility.  Confirm your honeymoon reservations and accommodations.  Finish packing for your honeymoon.

Rehearsal day:

 Breathe.  Rehearse the bridal party entrance order, exit order, standing arrangement and musical cues.  Give the best man the officiant’s fee and any other checks to be delivered the day of the wedding.  Arrange for someone to return your rented items after the wedding.  Provide your bridal party with the finalized detailed timeline.  Review ceremony seating with the ushers.  Enjoy your rehearsal dinner.

The BIG day:

 Breathe.  Give the groom’s ring to the maid of honor.  Finalize ceremony details with your officiant.  Give the bride’s ring to the best man.  Go in for the final fitting of your wedding gown  Breathe. and veil.  Get to the altar.  Arrange the final fitting for your bridesmaids’  Relax and enjoy your wedding. 4 to 6 months out: dresses.  Say ‘I do.’  Start shopping for each other’s wedding gifts.  Reserve rental items – tables, tablecloths, chairs,  Send your wedding announcement and photo to the Skagit Valley Herald. napkins, flatware, silverware, stem ware.  Finalize your rehearsal dinner plans and arrange  Finalize your invite list. seating.  Choose a hair and makeup stylist, meet with them, and schedule your final appointment for  Start packing for your honeymoon.  Contact guests who haven’t responded. the wedding.  Write out a detailed wedding day timeline for  Order wedding stationery – invitations, thankyour bridal party and vendors. you cards, wedding programs, seating cards,  Give the timeline to your vendors. personal stationery. To submit your wedding/  Pick up your wedding bands and check for fit.  Address your invitation envelopes. engagement announcement  Meet with your photographer and outline the  Register for gifts. please contact the Classified special photos you want.  Start planning your honeymoon. Department at 360.424.4567,  Meet with your videographer and outline the  Reserve a time and place for your rehearsal email: classified@skagitpublishing.com special events or people you want videotaped. dinner. or stop by our office:1215 Anderson Road,  Arrange accommodations for your out-of-town  Meet with your band/DJ and outline the music Mount Vernon, WA. Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM you want played during special events like the guests. There will be a charge to run all first dance, daddy-daughter dance, etc.  Start breaking in your shoes. wedding/engagement announcements.  Remind bridesmaids and groomsmen when and The rate will depend on the size of the 2 to 4 months out: where they can pick up their attire. announcement.  Order your wedding cake.  Decide on ceremony seating for your special The typical range is $20-$60.  Order party favors. guests, and give the list to your ushers. 12

2 to 6 weeks out:

2012 Bridal Guide & Planner

goskagit.com

Juntunen

Location, Location, Location! BY COLLEEN SMILEY Creative Celebrations

If you have a wedding in your future, one of the first choices you will need to make is the location for your wedding and reception. The most popular choices are garden or outdoor venues that will accommodate both the wedding and reception. The benefits of doing so are retaining guests and lower cost. Many times, when you move from the wedding to the reception, some guests will choose to attend one or the other. It is also more cost-effective when it comes to décor, rentals and flowers. We are so blessed to have so many wonderful places to choose from right here in Skagit Valley. TerraBella is a private and unique setting with charm and elegance, nestled in the beautiful Skagit Valley countryside on Fir Island in Conway. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, rustic buildings and a quaint historic white steepled church in the background, TerraBella has amazing photo opportunities, providing you with lasting memories. Your hosts, Loren and Carolyn Wohlgemuth, provide their clients and guests a welcoming and loving atmosphere, always anxious to accommodate every request. Juntunen Gardens is an enchanting surprise within a country setting. Wedding styles range from simple, cottage gardens to more formal European-inspired design. Juntunen Gardens in south Mount Vernon has become a destination site that is highly sought-after, as dates are limited. Nine acres of the 51-acre working farm are dedicated to display gardens and feature a variety of styles and plant material. The gardens are private, but are open for a select number of events throughout the summer months. Owners Rod and Mari Juntunen welcome your guests for pre-cergoskagit.com

g Firs

Beau Lodge

Whisperin

emony cocktail garden strolls and open the cottage for the bridal party to enjoy prior to the wedding. The new Eaglemont Golf Clubhouse in Mount Vernon offers breathtaking views of the valley from the new state-of-theart clubhouse. Two decks flank the 22,000 square-foot event space, which is able to accommodate up to 250 guests upstairs and 150 downstairs. A large lawn sits atop the bluff, with an arbor framing the best view in the Skagit Valley with the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound as the backdrop. Their top-of-the-line chef, in-house catering and great service staff will cater to your every need. Small to large groups are easily accommodated, with the largest event space having the capability to be divided into three different spaces. Blanchard Chapel provides a quaint and romantic wedding & reception destination. The turn-of-the-century wedding chapel sits in a lovely pastoral setting in Blanchard and offers both indoor and outdoor reception areas, with creekside meadows and gardens for beautiful photos. This classic countryside chapel has a cathedral-ceiling sanctuary and is a step back in time, but with contemporary comforts and flexibility. Blanchard Chapel is non-denominational and welcomes unique events and non-traditional weddings. The chapel is celebrating its 100th birthday this year! Located in Bow, The Beau Lodge and the 70-secluded-acre grounds are ideal for events indoor and or outdoor. The average capacity is 75 to 150 people. Just off the banquet room there is a large covered deck. The Lodge also has three bedrooms and three bathrooms and there is a full-size professional kitchen to accommodate large parties. The Beau Lodge grounds have multiple locations ideal for any kind of party. Some favorite locations, are next to the 2012 Bridal Guide & Planner

The Quarry

pond and in the surrounding meadows and gardens. Many of the outdoor locations are suitable for larger wedding ceremonies. Just east of La Conner, there is a spectacular and rare place for guests and events of all kinds. Recently opened to the public for special occasions, The Quarry is an estate property that reminds one of European graciousness and the American spirit. This once-abandoned rock quarry has been grandly transformed by its owner, an internationally acclaimed artist, into a place of unexpected beauty. In its pastoral setting, the newly built western style barn at Tazer Valley Farms is the ideal center-piece for your indoor or outdoor wedding and reception. Whether your event or special occasion is under cover or open air, the setting and atmosphere at Tazer Valley Farm is sure to warm your heart. Truly one of a kind, it offers a refreshing alternative to other special event venues. If you’re looking for a picturesque location for your wedding, it might be the venue for you. At Whispering Firs in Mount Vernon, the wooded seclusion, ponds, streams, gorgeous flowers and a breathtaking view of the San Juan Islands and Olympic Mountains provide a multitude of choices for the perfect wedding backdrop. Whispering Firs offers both indoor and outdoor options, but by far the most popular and spectacular venue is the huge deck with its astounding view. The approx. 3,000-square-foot deck provides seating for 150-plus. They even provide on-site catering with the great selection of favorite meals. Skagit Valley has truly become a destination for weddings for Seattle-area brides as well as other parts of the country. We are fortunate to have so many wonderful choices for wedding venues right here in our community. Best wishes finding the perfect location for your very special day! 13

Valley Portrait Photography

checklist

Florist Date

Ordered_________ Qty Item Contact Person Phone_______________

Description (style, color, flowers)

Cost

Flowers for helpers

Qty Item

Description (style, color, flowers)

Cost

Bride

Bouquet________________________________ ______ Bride’s Throwing Bouquet___________________ ______ Floral Headdress for Reception_______________ ______ Going-away Corsage_______________________ ______ Delivered to_______________ Time_________ ______

Bridal Consultant Officiant Soloist Instrumentalist(s) Guest Book Attendant Gift Attendant Other Helpers Total

bridal Attendants

Ceremony site

Matron of Honor_________________________ ______ Maid of Honor___________________________ ______ Bridesmaids_____________________________ ______ Flower Girl_____________________________ ______ Floral Headdress_________________________ ______ Delivered to_______________ Time_________ ______

Groom and Attendants

Groom’s Boutonniere______________________ ______ Best Man’s Boutonniere_____________________ ______ Ushers’ Boutonnieres______________________ ______ Ring Bearer’s Boutonniere___________________ ______ Delivered to_______________ Time_________ ______ Bridal Party Total ______

Family

Corsage for Bride’s Mother_________________ Corsage for Groom’s Mother________________ Corsages for Grandmothers_________________ Mother’s Roses__________________________ Other corsages (Stepmothers, Aunts)__________ Boutonniere for Bride’s Father_______________ Boutonniere for Groom’s Father______________ Other Boutonnieres (Stepfathers, Grandfathers) Delivered to_______________ Time_________ Family Total

______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______

Arch/Canopy Candelabra Candelighters Altar Floral Sprays Pews Aisles Other

Ceremony Site Total

Reception site

Bride’s Table Parents’ Table Attendants’ Table Guests’ Table Cake Table Top of Cake Guest Book Table Gift Table Ladies’ Powder Room Other

______

2012 Bridal Guide & Planner

Reception Site Total (Total of all Categories) Subtotal Grand Total Deposit Balance Due goskagit.com

Valley Portrait Photography

wo r k s h e e t

Photocopy and provide a copy to the photographer and videographer Brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Name________________________________

Phone_________________

Wedding Date_______________________________

Time__________________

Wedding Location______________________________________________________________________ Reception Date_____________________________

Time__________________

Reception Location_____________________________________________________________________ Photographer______________________________

Phone_________________

Assistant__________________________________

Phone_________________

Engagement Pictures_____________ Date_______

Time__________________

Location________________________________________________________________________ Bridal Portrait______________________________

Date_______ Time__________________

Location___________________________________________________ Wedding Day__________________ Arrival Time_______ Phone_____________ Location_______________________________________________________________________ Ceremony Site Restrictions/Guidelines______________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ Appropriate Dress_____________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ Videographer_____________________________ Phone_____________________________________ Assistant________________________________ Phone_____________________________________ Wedding Day________________ Arrival Time____ Phone_____________________________________ Location________________________________________________________________________ Ceremony Site Restrictions/Guidelines_______________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ Appropriate Dress______________________________________________________________________ goskagit.com

20112 Bridal Guide & Planner

wo r k s h e e t

Ceremony Location _____________________________________________________________________________ Contact Person ___________________________________________ Phone _______________________________ Wedding Date ____________________________________________ Arrival Time __________________________ Wedding Attire ________________________________________________________________________________ Rehearsal Date ___________________________________________ Time________Location__________________

Instrumentalists Name _________________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________ Name____________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________ Name____________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________ Cancellation Policy _________________________________________ Total Cost____________________________ _______________________________________________________ Deposit Paid__________________________ _______________________________________________________ Balance Due__________________________

Ceremony Music Selections Prelude _____________________________________________________________________________________

During Ceremony First Song ___________________________________________________________________________________ Second Song __________________________________________________________________________________ Third Song (If needed) ___________________________________________________________________________ Processional __________________________________________________________________________________

2012 Bridal Guide & Planner

goskagit.com

wo r k s h e e t TRAVEL AGENCY Address Number of Days Honeymoon Dates: From Honeymoon Destination(s):

Agent Estimated Cost To

Phone

Wedding Night Hotel Address Room Accommodations Rate Includes Reservations

Phone Room# Made

Confirmed

TRAVEL Reservations (airline, ship, train, rental car) Departure/ Pickup Date:

Time:

Carrier/ Number:

Phone:

Arrival/ Return Date:

Date:

Time: Confirmed

Hotel Reservations

goskagit.com

Arrival Date Departure Date Hotel Phone Address

Confirmed

Arrival Date Departure Date Hotel Phone Address

Confirmed

20112Bridal 2012 BridalGuide Guide&&Planner Planner

General information about marriage licenses in A marriage license can be obtained in Skagit County at the Skagit County Auditor’s Office. The cost for a marriage license is $60. Payment must be made in cash only, no exceptions. Neither a witness nor a blood test is required to obtain a marriage license. To obtain a marriage license: • Complete the marriage license application form (pdf) and affidavit (pdf). Both forms are also obtainable from the Auditor’s Office. • Both the bride-to-be and groom-to-be must sign the completed affidavit. The signing must be witnessed by a notary public or deputy auditor. • Pay the $60 fee. The license is not valid until the third full day after the application is filed at the Auditor’s Office. For example, if the application is filed on Monday, the first day

Skagit County

it can be used is Thursday. Marriage days of the valid date. If you file your application by mail, please mail it early enough to allow sufficient processing and return mail time. Please also include a contact name, address and phone number where you may be reached if necessary. PLEASE USE BLACK INK! Legal age for both bride and groom is 18 years old. If one of the applicants is 17 years old, that applicant must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The parent or legal guardian must sign the marriage application form, granting consent to the marriage, and must have the authority to do so. Legal guardians must provide either an original or certified copy of the legal guardianship documents. An applicant under 17 years of age must have the consent of a Superior Court judge. Such consent is indicated by a waiver, included with the

you mean there’s more to do

marriage application, that is signed by the Superior Court judge. Who is authorized to perform marriage? State law prescribes who can marry. Under RCW 6.04.050, active and retired justices of the Supreme Court, judges of the Court of Appeals, judges of the superior courts, Superior Court commissioners, any regular licensed or ordained minister or any priest of any church or religious denomination, and judges of courts of limited jurisdiction may perform marriages. For more information about marriage licenses, please call 360-336-9311 or email: scauditor@co.skagit.wa.us Obtaining a copy of a marriage license: For more information about obtaining a copy of a marriage license please call (360) 336-9311 or email: scauditor@co.skagit. wa.us.

The endless game of name-change. You’ll want your new name and address to appear here:  Will  Property titles  Utility companies  Post office  Magazine subscriptions  Car registration  Insurance policies  Voter registration

 Doctors  Dentist  Employee records  School records  Club memberships  Anyone who bills you or sends you wanted mail.

Honey, the wedding is only the beginning! Here’s what needs to happen next:

 Social Security Card  Driver’s license  Passport  Bank accounts  Credit cards  Safe deposit box  Investments  Loans

 Return all rented tuxedoes.  Return all rented equipment.  Return all borrowed accessories. Tip: have your mom or your maid of honor take on these tasks while he whisks you away to paradise.  Write thank-you cards. Tip: Make your notes as personal as possible. Thank the person for the specific gift and tell them how you plan to use it. Two sentences is plenty. Try something like, “Thanks so much, Aunt Cordelia, for your generous subscription to the Jelly of the Month Club. We can’t wait to savor all that sweet, fruity goodness on toast, pancakes, waffles, French toast, and all manner of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.” Include a wedding or honeymoon photograph of the bride and groom for a nice touch.  Preserve your bridal bouquet.

Tip: Want to save time and minimize work? Plenty of web-based companies offer name change services for $15-$35. Simply fill out a brief form with your basic information, and they handle the necessary name and address changes for you.  Send your wedding gown to the cleaners and have it sealed in a vacuum box or bag.  Decide if you want to file your taxes jointly or separately, and update your tax forms at work.  Add your spouse to your employer’s health insurance.  Make your spouse is the beneficiary of any retirement and 401(k) plans.  Purchase life insurance.  Start financial planning, and consider meeting with an accountant and financial adviser to devise strategies that fit your goals as a married couple.

2012 Bridal Guide & Planner

goskagit.com

to see what we can do for you!

SKAGIT PUBLISHING COMMERCIAL PRINTING

3 6 0 . 4 1 6 . 2 1 2 6 dbundy@skagitpublishing.com

Save The Date Postcards