2013 Bridal Guide by Skagit Publishing

2013 BRIDAL GUIDE

A supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald and Anacortes American

2013 Bridal Guide Contents a not-so-traditional wedding reception playlist 4 cosmetic surgery procedures for the bride-to-be 5 floral tips & trends for 2013 5

Advertising director Mark Dobie

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

advertising operations manager Sarah Hickman

advertising operations fawn floyd, katie erickson, Jody Hendrix, Dana PERRY,

what to consider before buying a diamond 6

karen sheppard, Patricia StowelL

cover design & layout

dresses in 2013 7

fawn floyd

your wedding venue 8

Advertising consultants

catering Q&A: 10 questions for your wedding caterer 10

Stephanie Harper, abby jackson, Staci May, Michelle O’Donnell, Kathy Schultz, Katie

a mother’s joyful day 12

Sundermeyer, Paul Tinnon, John Williams

how to publish your engagement & wedding announcement in the skagit valley herald 13 before the wedding checklist 14 Making it legal 15 After the wedding checklist 15

goskagit.com

check out our 2013 Bridal guide board! pinterest.com/skagitads

2013 Bridal Guide

A n o t- s o - t r a d i t i o n a l

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

Wedding Music Playlist let it be me danger! high voltage can’t help falling in love into the mystic sea of love i do save room you make my dreams yellow in love with you forever i want you to want me hey, ho bring it home mushaboom is this love (acoustic) hey good looking kiss me you’re the one i melt with you i do, i do, i do, i do, i do sway white wedding january wedding thank you got you where i want you can’t take my eyes off of you baby sweet moment i will follow you into the dark sweet disposition maps with or without you anything could happen l-o-v-e together moi je joue the way i am my baby just cares for me i wanna hold your hand lovesong dream a little dream of me home i believe in a thing called love all my loving fires these arms of mine sweet pea closer sharp dressed man the story it must be love friday i'm in love

Ray Lamontagne Electric Six Ingrid Michaelson Van Morrison Cat Power Colbie Caillat John Legend Hall & Oates Sara Bareilles Erykah Badu & Stephen Marley Ben Harper Letters To Cleo The Lumineers Sam Cooke Feist Allen Stone Johnny Cash Ed Sheeran The Black Keys Nouvelle Vague Abba Bic Runga Tin Roof Cats The Avett Brothers Led Zeppelin The Flys Lauryn Hill Devendra Banhart Bowerbirds Death Cab For Cutie The Temper Trap Yeah Yeah Yeahs Sarah Darling Ellie Goulding Joss Stone The Raconteurs Brigitte Bardot Ingrid Michaelson Florence & The Machine Al Green Adele Bernadette Seacrest Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeroes The Darkness Amy Winehouse Band Of Skulls Duffy Amos Lee Tegan & Sara Zz Top Brandi Carlile Paolo Nutini The Cure

Just Weddings A Catering Company “fine event catering with a casual flair”

Eat, drink, and be married! Direct 360-421-4126 Email Kfellers@Juswed.com www.Juswed.com Visit our wedding section at

www.tulips.com

MENTION THIS AD & RECEIVE 10% OFF FOOD & BEVERAGE SERVICE 2013 Bridal Guide

goskagit.com

2Twelve Design & Photo

Floral Tips & Trends for 2013 There are many new and exciting trends showing up for wedding flowers in 2013. And some fun and wonderful ideas from 2012 that will continue to have an impact for quite some time. We’ve noticed that the trend towards a softer vintage inspired wedding continues to be very popular. Tone on tone color schemes work well with this choice. We’ve been seeing the use of dusky pinks, greying purples and softer sage or mint greens combined with heirloom china, crystal, and garden inspired accents. These softer color pallets are even more striking when combined with pops of brighter, more contemporary colors such as bright pink, deep purple or golden yellow. Bridal bouquets that are hand tied and embellished with lace ribbons, delicate handkerchiefs, or heirloom jewelry are becoming increasingly popular. We are also seeing a shift away from the tighter, more structural bouquets that have been all the rage for the last 10 years or so to a looser form. A little wilder, more natu-

ral, with a slightly cascading form. Many brides are choosing the vibrant contemporary color schemes that really pop. Hot pink combined with lime green and coral continues to be a favorite. Deep red with black accents is also a current favorite. Texture is also an up and coming trend. Using succulents, artichokes, kale, grasses, intriguing foliage, branches and twigs with your wedding flowers adds a fun layer of texture and an additional depth of color. When meeting with your florist for the first time there are a few key pieces of information you should bring with you. This will make the process of planning your wedding flowers easier for you and more efficient for your florist. Just as in real estate, location is a primary consideration. The venue is usually the place to start. Once you have picked a location and a wedding date, you can start thinking about color schemes and seasonally available flowers. Will you

need arrangements for the ceremony site? Centerpieces for the tables? Guestbook table arrangements? Pew bouquets? Your florist will be able to help you determine what you may need and the most effective way of using your floral budget. Then there’s the big B word. The Budget. Knowing about how much you have allocated for your floral budget is pretty important. Typically brides will spend approximately 10% of their wedding budget on the flowers. If you’ve never planned a wedding before and you are unsure how much to allocate for wedding flowers, your florist should be able to assist you. First in determining your wants and needs and then in the selection bouquets and flowers. The most important tip for wedding planning…Enjoy the process. This is a once in a lifetime event, so relax and enjoy every part of it.

provided by: enchanted florist

Cosmetic Surgery Procedures for the By David Slepyan, MD More and more these days, women are adding cosmetic-surgery procedures to their wedding plans. On this special day -- and to look absolutely your best in your wedding dress -- some brides-to-be opt to correct a chin, tighten the abdominals and hips or lift their breasts. I would like to address these procedures and help readers understand the basics and benefits of having these procedures performed. Liposuction procedures Brides-to-be typically aren't looking for, or in need of a face lift. However, due to excess weight many are interested in liposuction for any of several areas, most often the chin, upper arms, abdominals and hips ("saddle bags"). Candidates for liposuction must be in generally good health, have "pockets" of fatty tissue in certain parts of the body and have a diet and exercise regimen. The goal is to cause the least amount of discomfort to the patient while achieving optimal results. Liposuction procedures have become more refined over the past years and results are much improved with new techniques goskagit.com

and technology. In many cases in which liposuction has been performed, there may be a need to remove excess skin from the area of fat removal. Abdominoplasty Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck not only removes excess abdominal skin and fat but also strengthens the core area. The procedure not only slims the stomach area but also often involves a repair of the abdominal muscle wall. Due to excessive weight or pregnancy, the abdominal fascia can be stretched, leaving the stomach muscles weaker and less effective. Often there may be a hernia or defect in the fascia above or below the belly button, which is also corrected during the abdominoplasty. While diet and exercise are important, they can be limited in their effect. Some areas of fat may persist despite exercise and may be genetically or hormonally controlled. Abdominoplasty can resolve these localized areas of fat. Breast lift The corrective procedure for the size, contour and elevation of sagging breasts 2013 Bridal Guide

Bride-to-Be

is called "mammoplasty" or breast lift. This procedure removes excess tissues -- such as fat or skin -- to achieve an aesthetically pleasing bust. For younger women, there may be sagging due to the weight and volume of the breast, and because younger skin has greater elasticity. This sagging will continue due to gravity's effects on the human body. If you are considering any cosmetic-surgery procedures, I encourage you to have a consultation with one or more reputable boardcertified plastic surgeon(s). The consultation will allow you to gain detailed information about the procedure, express your goals, view personal video imaging and discuss the options. In addition, you can learn about the recovery process and time so you'll be absolutely looking your best for that very special day.

David Slepyan, MD is a board-certified plastic surgeon at the Center for Aesthetic Surgery at Island Hospital. 5

Clarity

What to Consider Before Buying a Diamond

Clarity is the evaluation of a diamond’s internal and external characteristics. The fewer inclusions or blemishes, the more desirable the diamond. Inclusions are internal, that is, inside the diamond. Crystals are merely minerals trapped inside the diamond; feathers are breaks in the diamond. Blemishes are usually very small and are only on the surface of diamonds. To locate these tiny characteristics, an American Gem Society (AGS) member jeweler will use a binocular microscope that magnifies the diamond ten times. Then, evaluating the size, location, nature, number, and color of all the inclusions and blemishes, a clarity grade from 0-10 is assigned.

Color A truly colorless diamond is extremely rare. Most diamonds possess varying degrees of yellow or brown and small, subtle differences in color can make a substantial difference in value. If a diamond is well cut, the diamond’s refraction and dispersion often will disguise certain degrees of coloration. Unless a diamond is a fancy color (any color other than colorless to light yellow/brown), the AGS Color Grading System places it on a 0 to 10 scale, 0 being colorless. To accurately and consistently grade color, an American Gem Society trained grader will utilize special lighting to compare the diamond being graded to a set of American Gem Society Master Color Comparison Diamonds, which have met exacting standards of cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.

Cut Of all the 4 Cs, cut has the greatest effect on a diamond’s beauty. In grading the cut, the cutter’s skill is evaluated in the fashioning of the diamond. Diamonds have a unique ability to manipulate light efficiently. This unique charactistic can be released and maximized only by cutting and polishing the diamond to an extremely high level of accuracy. The AGS Cut Grading System considers not only the proportions of a diamond, but also the craftsmanship of its overall symmetry and polish. The system is unique in that it uses the latest in technology to analyze the cut’s impact on the diamond’s light performance.

Carat The standard used to measure diamond weight is the carat. A carat equals 1/5 of a gram (or 1/142 of an ounce). Each carat is further divided into points, each point representing 1/100th of a carat. While weight may be the least important of the four Cs in determining value, it may be the easiest of the four Cs to gauge accurately and is the most objective. As diamonds increase in size, their cost tends to increase geometrically. Thus, a one-carat diamond may cost more than twice as much as a one-half carat stone of equal quality. Also, as previously stated, weight does not always enhance the value of a diamond. In fact, when a stone is improperly cut, added weight may serve only to reduce its brilliance. For these reasons, you should consult with an AGS titleholder or individual regarding the question of carat weight.

The perfect partners for your wedding!

Bridal gowns Bridesmaid Gowns z Over 4,000 in-stock tuxedos y Men’s Wear

Join us at our trunk show for the global premier of Lillian York bridal gowns!

February 8th & 9th, 2013

For more information call 360-733-2563 or visit www.aliciasbridal.com. Book your appointment online now!

1400 N. State Street Bellingham, WA 360-733-2563 www.aliciasbridal.com

Also visit our outlet for great deals on last season’s gowns!

2Twelve Design & Photo

2013 Bridal Guide

goskagit.com

Dresses in 2013

2Twelve Design & Photo

The new 2013 bridal gowns are arriving now and it is one of the best seasons that I have seen in a long time! The fabrics are beautiful! Romantic lace gowns with beautiful illusion back detail and high necklines have been reworked and modernized for today’s bride. There are lots of fabric choices in lace, organza and chiffon, as well as some gorgeous satins reminiscent of old Hollywood. Silhouettes such as mermaid gowns or ballgowns with organza ruffles in solid colors or even in pastel ombre add even more fun to the mix. The effect is fun and romantic! Designers are using color in dresses and details such as blush, soft gold and even black. Of course ivory, white and diamond white are still the most popular colors for gowns, but you can always add a sash to your gown to introduce some color into the wedding. You can even add cap sleeves or a beautiful jacket to a strapless gown and completely transform it. Romantic, soft, flowy fabrics like chiffon can be used to set a mood for an outdoor wedding. The mood you set for your wedding should be reflected in your gown, the venue and even your attendant dresses. Carrying through a common element can bring the whole wedding together. Your bridal consultant should ask questions, listen to your wedding vision and then help you find the perfect gown for you and your attendants. It is so easy with all the options available out there to take a gown, add your personal touches to it and make it a reflection of you. Bridesmaid dresses play a supporting role. They don’t have to match your gown but selecting a feature you want to carry through like neckline or similar fabric can pull together the look you want for pictures. Lace is popular in wedding dresses and is finally making an appearance in bridesmaid dresses as well this coming season. You could pair lace bridesmaid dresses with a simple, classic wedding dress to incorporate some texture. Chiffons are still one of the most popular choices in bridesmaid fabric, but there are satins, taffetas and organzas to choose from as well. Peplums are back, as well as one shoulder dress choices. The color choices are staggering! Some brides are opting to have all their maids in one color or to utilize different shades; pastels being a popular choice. The effect can be beautiful. Visualizing all of it together is the key. Check out the Alicia’s Bridal Pinterest account for lots of good ideas that you may want to incorporate in to your wedding!

Xtra Special Cakes

Beautiful and Unique

GIFTS

919 W. Division St. Mount Vernon

(360) 428.4831

Guidance Through Life Rev. Margarett Mae Non-Denominational Ceremonies

* Your Ceremony * Your Way * Anywhere

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

Featuring over 90 artist

Fine Art Art Classes

Gallery available for non-traditional weddings

Poetry •Theater Magic

233 North Olympic Avenue • Arlington

fogdoggallery.com • 505-660-6825 2013 Bridal Guide

your

wedding

venue

By Colleen Smiley, Creative Celebrations

"Location, location, location!" We hear it in the business world all the time, but it is also a huge consideration for your wedding venue. The choice you make will be one of the first choices you make in your planning and will also impact the costs associated with your wedding. While some venues will require extra rentals of tables, chairs, linens, dishware and delivery fees, others may require you to use their in house catering or other exclusive vendors which could add to your costs. Of course one of the most important considerations is the comfort you feel and the impression that your guests come away with. Here in Skagit County we have a variety of unique and affordable choices for any bride. The most popular choices for brides are garden or outdoor venues that will accommodate both the wedding and reception. The benefits of doing so are retaining guests and lowering costs. Many times when you move from the wedding to the reception, some guests will choose to attend one or the other. It is more cost effective to keep the events at a single location when it comes to dĂŠcor, rentals,

2013 Bridal Guide

goskagit.com

music and flowers. A few newer exquisite venue choices we have right here in Skagit Valley make it easier for a bride to find the perfect location in our beautiful valley. Maplehurst Farm is located in the picturesque Skagit Valley and situated alongside the Skagit River. Maplehurst Farms 6 acres feature views of Mount Baker, a historic mansion and arbor built in 1903, a 5000 sq. ft. event barn, gardens, trees, and a large grass field. Your guests will be in awe from the moment they enter the beautiful tree lined drive leading to your wedding venue. Clements' Acres Weddings in west Mount Vernon is exquisitely detailed with gorgeous perennials, flowering trees, and a very special "hitching post". As an added appeal they offer splashes of YOUR color to accent for the perfect location. The grounds offer picture perfect areas for amazing photographic moments, breathtaking sunsets as the property faces to the west. You will enjoy very private grounds, yet over 2 acres of landscaping for your needs and separate, tastefully decorated areas for Bridal and Groom parties. Want a rustic venue with a twist! Just east of Anacortes, two minutes off of Highway 20, enjoy the gardens, the barn, and a log cabin with a picture-worthy porch at Greenfield Farm and Gardens. Experience unforgettable hospitality, the chicken house bustling with hens, the funky greenhouse and the grain bin turned into a beverage bar. The barn makes a popular indoor reception or party area, while the generous grounds lend themselves to several beautiful outdoor experiences with or without a canopy and there is ample parking for parties as large as 200 people. For the guys, there is an antique tractor collection and Scottish Highland cattle. For the women, find many treasures of simple elegances mixed with the serenity of nature and a wide variety of blooms. Plenty of restrooms, a dressing room for the brides and her bridesmaids, and a log cabin where the groom and his men can “cave it!” The Wa-Walton Event Center at Swinomish Casino & Lodge is a premiere new wedding space in Anacortes, Washington. The 9,000 sq. ft. event center features vaulted ceilings, warm color tones, and an inviting atmosphere that will accommodate up to 500 guests with a variety of floor plans. This romantic setting includes breathtaking views that capture the beauty of the San Juan Islands and Padilla Bay. This unique venue is all inclusive; with Las Vegas style gaming, 94 luxury rooms, goskagit.com

four spacious suites, and a hospitality suite perfect for bridal party preparation. The Anacortes Ship Harbor Inn is perfect for a small reception or rehearsal dinner. This hidden treasure is nestled among 6 acres of towering cedars and mature firs. Boasting water views from their lush lawn event space and every sleeping room on the property, this is a treasure especially for out of the area guests. The experienced hospitality staff can assist you in

2013 Bridal Guide

planning your every detail for your most intimate of gatherings or larger events accommodating up to 175 people. 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! Be sure to book early, as the many wonderful venues we have can book up quickly especially July through September.

2012 2013

To:

From:

Co:

# Pages:

Fax:

Tel:

Date:

Re:

Catering Q & A

10 Questions f o r Your Wedding 200 • Blaine, WA • Fax: 360/332-2777 • Tel: 360/332-1777 • E-mail: sales@pacificcoastweddings.info • www.pacificcoastweddings.info C at e r e r

2Twelve Design & Photo

January 20, 2013 Swinomish Casino and Lodge

12885 Casino Drive Anacortes, WA 11 am - 4 pm TICKETS $8 online, $10 at the door

866-585-5752

skagitweddingshow.com

A great caterer will do more than just make good food. He or she will pay great attention to details, making sure the presentation is just right, the food and wine are served at the right temperature, the servers are well-groomed and attentive and that clean-up is efficient and thorough. So how do you make sure the caterer you hire is a great one? By asking the right questions: 1. May I have references? Most caterers get their business from word of mouth. Ask for at least 10 former clients and call as many as you can. Ask questions such as: • Was the caterer easy to work with? • Was the service efficient and nonintrusive? • Was the food delicious, and did it arrive hot? • Were there any problems that came up and how did the caterer deal with them? 2. Do you have a business license and liability insurance? Caterers should be licensed by the state. Usually licenses are displayed in the office, but if you’re not positive, then ask to see it. Make sure you see proof of liability insurance as well. 3. Can we sample from a typical wedding menu? Catering can be a large part of your wedding budget. Make sure you know what it is you’ll be getting for your money. Take your spouse-to-be and a friend with you to the tasting so that you can get varied opinions. Some caterers will charge a tasting fee, but it’s worth it. 4. May I see photographs of

arefully. Be sure that all spelling, phone numbers, addresses & prices are correct then check the appropriate box and sign if your your table displays? may change your ad up to two times, typos and error excluded. On the third change a fee will be added to thecaterers cost of your Some whoad. provide buffets or appears if we do not hear from you by the deadline for this issue. food stations include floral arrange-

AS IS

1 AD APPROVED WITH CHANGES PROOF DEADLINE: 10

NOT APPROVED

ments and other decorations. It’s also a good idea to discuss your color theme so that decorations and floral arrangements coordinate.

friday, November 9 at 4 pm

2013 Bridal Guide

goskagit.com

5. What does the price per person include? Is the cost strictly for food, or does it cover tables, chairs, linens, tableware, punch service, table displays, etc.? 6. What other fees do you charge? Are tips and taxes included in the price? Some caterers will charge a cake-cutting fee or corking fee for wines. Make sure you get all fees in writing up front. 7. Do you handle special menu requests? You may have guests with special menu needs, such as food allergies, vegan or kosher requirements. Make sure your caterer will accommodate these needs. Some couples want to have a special family recipe at the reception - grandma’s meatballs or foods from the family’s ethnic traditions. Find out if your caterer will personalize your menu with these kinds of items. 8. Do you offer cakes? Ask if your caterer offers wedding and groom’s cakes, and find out if they are included in the price. 9. Will you pack us a “doggie bag” for after the reception? Sometimes the wedding couple is so busy at the reception that they have very little time to eat anything. Attentive caterers will prepare small boxes of food for the couple to enjoy when they are finally alone. 10. What are the payment arrangements? You need to find out how much of a deposit is required, and if it’s refundable or not. Ask when the final payment is due and what the caterer’s preferred form of payment is. When you finally settle on a caterer, make sure you have a written contract to sign. This guarantees that they will provide the food, timelines and details you discussed. Asking these 10 questions will help you choose the right caterer to help make your wedding a truly special celebration. goskagit.com

2Twelve Design & Photo

VALUED WEDDING GIFTS SINCE 1930

Generations have selected their engagement and wedding rings as well as fine dinnerware and crystal at Burton Jewelers. We feature Canadian certified fine diamonds, custom engagement rings and designer engagement rings such as Sholdt designs of Seattle and Michael Bondanza from New York. For your wedding gift registry with us, select from famous brands like Waterford Crystal, Wedgwood China, Pickard American made China and Reed and Barton Flatware, Lenox China and Dansk Designs. Ask about our “Bridal Completer Deal”!

ewelers since 1930

2013 Bridal Guide

7TH & COMMERCIAL • ANACORTES 293-6469 • burtonjewelers.com TOLL-FREE 1-888-293-6469

 HOURS 

Monday - Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 11

A Mother’s

Joyful

Day…

By Joan Phillips, Cascade Cosmetic Center

You have anticipated this day of celebration since they had their first crush in elementary school. You knew they would someday grow up, move onto challenges that could take them miles away and one day find their soul mate. Reflecting on your child’s young life you remember their first Valentine exchange, the awkwardness of their first kiss, and the day they told you they were going to be married. You couldn’t be happier or more proud for your son or daughter as you will be on their wedding day. On this day, you will be celebrating, but your joy will also be one of self pride as a mother for a job well done. Few events in our life force us to look at ourselves from the outside in. An anticipated family wedding is one such event that gives people the desire to want to look their best in their proud-

est moments. We often hear people say that beauty comes from within and is reflected outwardly. Mostly true. But what happens to our self-image when we look in a mirror and the reflection looking back at us isn’t as youthful as we feel. We all recognize that we can’t turn back time, but we can soften or minimize the signs of aging and look the best we can for our age. Even subtle cosmetic changes can give us added confidence. For mothers of either the bride or groom, you too should prepare a beauty check list months ahead of the joyful wedding event. You deserve to look as good as you will feel. When considering a beauty checklist start by identifying your concerns and then prioritizing them. Some beauty treatments will require healing after treatment, some will require a series of treatments over

Large, modern ballroom complete with dance floor and stage.

12:00pm to 6:00pm Monday - Friday

1000 Metcalf Street, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284 • 360-855-0530 • foe2069@yahoo.com

Enchanted Florist Let us help you create your perfect wedding design. Breath-taking arrangements for your wedding!

360.757.2427 • 877.447.7304 2201 Continental Pl, Mount Vernon www.myenchantedflorist.net Deliveries Available 12

4 to 6 months before the event:

This is the time you will want to allow for any surgical procedures such as eye lid lifts, mini-face lifts, neck lifts or brow lifts. These procedures can often be done under local sedation and recovery can be one to three weeks. You will want to have these procedures done far enough in advance so that you are completely healed and comfortable with your new look allowing you to focus on bridal showers, guest dinners and helping your child plan their event details. Most laser skin resurfacing treatments should also fall into this timeline. 2 to 4 months before the event:

We can provide the perfect location for your wedding and reception For information on rental rates, catering and other available services contact the Sedro-Woolley Eagles

several weeks or months, and others can be done just a week or two prior to the event. By identifying which concerns are most important to you and understanding the time commitment involved to achieve your desired results a timeline will map itself out fairly quickly. Use the guide below to get started then consult with the appropriate professional. Many cosmetic specialists will give a complimentary consultation or request a nominal fee.

Consider laser treatments for removal of spider veins, dark spots or other pigmented areas of the skin. Every mother can benefit from a good home skin care regimen and it is never too late to start protecting and correcting your skin. A professional esthetician will help you decide if your current products are best suited for your desired results. 1 to 2 months before the event:

Cosmetic dermal fillers and products such as Botox can minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and folds in our face. Treatments with these products are usually no more than one hour but you may experience bruising. To be picture perfect you will want to allow at least two weeks for healing. Chemical peels as well as facials can remove lack luster skin giving you a fresh surface to apply your make-up. And do plan your make-up application before the day of the event.

2013 Bridal Guide

goskagit.com

Use this as a guide to help you format your announcement to be published on Sundays in the Skagit Valley Herald’s Skagit Living section. Deadline is 2:30pm on Wednesday, prior to the requested Sunday publication. Cost is $20 (2x2), $35 (2x5) or $55 (2x7.5) and $5 for each additional inch.

How to publish your

Engagement & Wedding announcement

in the skagit valley herald

Engagement announcement suggested content:

Full name of bride-to-be and bridegroom-to-be, Bride’s parents’ names and city, Groom’s parents’ names and city, Bride’s education and year(s) of graduation, Bride’s employment and city, Groom’s education and year(s) of graduation, Groom’s employment and city, Wedding date and location. Wedding announcement suggested content:

Full maiden name of bride, Full name of bridegroom, Will the bride keep her maiden name, Wedding date and time, Location of wedding, Bride’s and Groom’s parents’ names and city, First and last name and title of minister, Double-ring ceremony, Bridal bouquet, Name and city of Maid or matron of honor, Name and city of Best man, Name and city of Bridesmaids and Groomsmen, Candlelighters, Ushers, Flower girl, Ringbearer, Musicians, Location of reception and hosts, Bride’s and Groom’s education and year(s) of graduation, Bride’s and Groom’s employer and city, Honeymoon, Couple’s new home city. Call 360.424.4567 with any questions or for more info. You may submit your photo & announcement these ways: Deliver in person: 1215 Anderson Road, Mt. Vernon, WA 98274

2Twelve Design & Photo

The

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

Grand Willow

Email: classified@skagitpublishing.com Mail: PO Box 578, Mt .Vernon, WA 98273 Fax: 360.424.5300

Port of Anacortes Choose between two magnificent waterfront venues – the historic Transit Shed (seats 350) with fantastic views of Guemes Channel or the more intimate Seafarers’ Memorial Park (seats 125) with views of Fidalgo Bay.

Two beautiful venues! 100 Commercial Avenue

Seafarers’ Memorial Park 600 Seafarers Way

Anacortes, WA | 360/293-3134 events@portofanacortes.com portofanacortes.com

2Twelve Design & Photo

goskagit.com

2013 Bridal Guide

Before the Wedding checklist 2 to 4 Months Out

9 to 12 Months Out

Announce your engagement! Submit your engagement announcement to the Skagit Valley Herald. Pick a date for your wedding. Decide on your wedding style— large or small, indoors or out, black tie or barefoot. Decide on a budget. Set up a folder to keep receipts & 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. Reserve your DJ or band. Go shopping! Find & order your wedding gown, veil & accessories. Choose your maid of honor, best man, bridesmaids, groomsmen & ushers. Apply for a passport and visa if you'll need them for the honeymoon. Consider starting pre-marital counseling.

6 to 9 Months Out

Order your wedding cake. Order party favors. 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 whitened. Buy gifts for your bridal party.

6 to 8 Weeks Out

Mail your invitations. Consider starting a wedding website. Record the RSVPs on your wedding guest spreadsheet. Start sending thank-you cards to early gifters. Schedule hair, makeup & nails for your wedding day. Buy toasting glasses, a cake knife, ring pillow, guestbook, etc. Reserve wedding attire for the groom, groomsmen, ushers, father of the bride & ring bearer. Mail rehearsal dinner invitations. Get your marriage license. Find the proverbial "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue." Finalize your menu & beverage order.

Choose your flower girl & ring bearer. Reserve your wedding night suite Choose your bridesmaids' attire— dresses, Finalize ceremony details with your officishoes & accessories. ant. Go for tastings and book your caterer. Go in for the final fitting of your wedding Book your florist. gown & veil. Order wedding invitations. Arrange final fittings for your bridesmaids' dresses. Submit your wedding announcement & photo to the Skagit Valley Herald. Finalize your rehearsal dinner plans & arStart shopping for each other's wedding range seating. gifts. Start packing for your honeymoon. Reserve rental items— tables, tablecloths, Contact guests who haven't responded. chairs, napkins, flatware, silverware, stem Write out a detailed wedding day timeline ware. for your bridal party & vendors. Finalize your invite list. Pick up your wedding bands & check for fit. Choose a hair and makeup stylist, meet Meet with your photographer & outline the with them, and schedule your final appointspecial photos you want. ment for the wedding. Meet with your DJ/band & outline the muOrder wedding stationery— thank you cards, wedding programs, seating cards, etc. sic playlist during special events like the first dance, etc. Address your invitation envelopes. Remind bridesmaids & groomsmen when Register for gifts. & where they can pick up their attire. Start planning your honeymoon. Decide on ceremony seating for your speReserve a time & place for your rehearsal cial guests, and give the list to your ushers. dinner. Plan your reception room layout & seating Arrange accommodations for out-of-town arrangement. guests. Write your vows. Start breaking in your shoes.

2 to 6 Weeks Out

Week of the Wedding

Pick up your wedding attire & make sure everything fits. Tell your caterer the final guest count. Review the detailed timeline with your vendors & modify if needed. Confirm with your photographer, musicians, clergy, florist, caterer & reception facility. Confirm your honeymoon reservations & accommodations. Finish packing for your honeymoon.

Rehearsal Day

Rehearse the bridal party entrance order, exit order, standing arrangement & musical cues. Give the best man the officiant's fee & 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. Give the bride's ring to the best man. Follow your detailed timeline. Get to the altar. Say "I do." Relax and enjoy your wedding!

4 to 6 Months Out

2013 Bridal Guide

goskagit.com

After the Wedding checklist Return all rented tuxedoes.

Do name-changes:

Return all rented equipment. Return all borrowed accessories. TIP: Have your mom or maid of honor take on these tasks while you go on your honeymoon!

Write thank-you cards. TIP: Make your notes as personal as possible. Thank the person for the specific gift and tell them how you plant to use it. For example, "Thanks so much, Aunt Lydia, 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 and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches!" Two sentences is plenty. Include a wedding or honeymoon photograph of the bride and groom for a nice touch.

Preserve your bridal bouquet.

social security card driver's license passport bank accounts credit cards safe deposit box investments loans 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

TIP: Want to save time and minimize work? Many web-based companies offer name change services for $15-$35. Simply fill out a brief form with your basic information, and they handle necessary name and address changes for you.

Send your wedding gown to the cleaners and have it sealed in a vacuum bag or box. Decide on filing taxes jointly or separately, and update your tax forms at work. Add your spouse to your employer's health insurance. Make your spouse the beneficiary of any retirement and 401(k) plans. Purchase life insurance. Start financial planning and consider meeting with an accountant and financial advisor for strategies that fit your goals as a married couple.

Making it Legal General Information about Marriage Licenses in Skagit County A marriage license can be obtained in Skagit County at the Skagit County Auditorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office. The cost for a marriage license is $60.00. Payment must be made in cash only, no exceptions. Neither a witness nor a blood test is required to obtain a marriage license. The license is not valid until the third full day after the application is filed at the Auditorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office. For example, if the application is filed on Monday, the first day it can be used is Thursday. Marriage Licenses are void if not solemnized within 60 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 applicants is 18 years old. If one of the applicants is 17 years old, that applicant must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. goskagit.com

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 marriage application, that is signed by the Superior Court Judge. Who is authorized to perform marriages? State law prescribes who can marry. Under RCW 26.04.050, active and retired justices of the supreme court, judges of the court of appeals, judges of the superior courts, superior court commissioners, any regularly 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 info, call: 360.336.9311 or email: scauditor@co.skagit.wa.us 2013 Bridal Guide

What you need to do: 1. Complete the marriage license application form and affidavit. Both forms are available from the Auditorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office or in pdf form online at www.skagitcounty.net. 2. Both applicants must sign the completed affidavit. The signing must be witnessed by a notary public or deputy auditor. 3. Pay the $60.00 fee.

E ngagi ng Possi bi lit i es ! • Two hotels with 16,000 square feet of combined venue space, separate from casino • Full-service catering and banquet staff

Owned by Upper Skagit Indian Tribe

SVHBG

Contact Sales at 360-724-0154 sales@theskagit.com 5 Minutes North of Burlington On I-5 at Exit 236 • theskagit.com