A Taos Wedding 2016 by The Taos News

L a r ry m a rt i n e z J e w e L e r . c o m

Celebrating 44 years of custom jewelry design

AA Rating

822 Paseo del Pueblo Sur • 575.758.4169

G.I.A. TRAINED

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

‘Two souls with but a single thought; two hearts that beat as one.’ — Friedrich Halm, Austrian dramatist, poet and novella writer

Taos bliss

life worthwhile.

ongratulations! You found each other in this titanic, crazy maze of a world. True love is what makes the ride through

Whether Taos is your home or the unforgettable, mountainous, high-desert scenery and romance this place captures fulfills your dream ceremony, A Taos Wedding can help you plan your special day. Published yearly by The Taos News, this guide aims to serve as a resource for those set on simple nuptials to others visualizing a big bash, with some helpful hints and lighthearted content thrown in to keep stress at bay. Weddings don’t plan themselves, unfortunately. As in years past, however, this edition of A Taos Wedding calmly walks you through the many decisions that go into planning a

wedding, from finding the perfect venue to obtaining legal paperwork, to name just a sampling. Also inside are articles on the local Wedding Expo, free Valentine’s Day nuptials at the famed Río Grande Gorge Bridge, the popularity of themed weddings by Teresa Dovalpage, an inspiring and educational love story, and Virginia Clark talks to local photographers about getting the best wedding shots. As you’re planning your big day in Northern New Mexico, keep this copy of A Taos Wedding handy because a wedding in Taos is a unique, special and truly memorable event come rain, snow or sunshine. May every couple that unites in Taos this year fall in love with each other many times over. — Scott Gerdes, special sections editor

Contents

Plan Ahead........................................... 10

Themed Weddings............................... 28

Registry................................................. 14

Gorge Weddings................................... 32

Taos Wedding Expo............................. 16

A Love Story......................................... 36

Legalities............................................... 20

Venues.................................................. 42

Picture perfect...................................... 22

The Language of Flowers..................... 46

Wedding Trivia..................................... 24

Announcements................................... 48

Staff Robin Martin, owner • Chris Baker, publisher • Joan Livingston, editor • Chris Wood, advertising manager • Scott Gerdes, special sections editor • Emily Wilde, lead designer • Jordan Miera, copy editor • Karin Eberhardt, production manager • Katharine Egli, photographer • Contributing writers: Virginia Clark, Teresa Dovalpage • Contributing photographers: Megan Bowers Avina, Brendan Curran, Tina Larkin, Deanna Nelson On the cover: Chavez/Zaher wedding by Tina Larkin, tlarkin.photoshelter.com • Cover design by Karin Eberhardt 4

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

CREATivE stress-free EvEnTS FOR Any BUDGET

Zia Event Design

Sarah Dzieweczynski, Event Planner ~ ziaeventdesign.com ~ 575.779.9008 WEDDinGS · CELEBRATiOnS · FUnDRAiSinG

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

We Help Make Memories to Last a Lifetime

Offering full catering, bar, set up and breakdown, full service and escorts. Indoor and outdoor venues available.

Delancey Street Catering 505-852-4291. County Road 40 House 137, Ohkay Owingeh, New Mexico, 87566 6

A Taos Wedding â&#x20AC;˘ taosnews.com/wedding â&#x20AC;˘ 2016

s i m p l y e x q u i s i t e Create a bond that lasts forever.

WHOLESALE TO THE PUBLIC CUSTOM MADE WEDDING AND ENGAGEMENT RINGS

575.758.1573 1027 SALAZAR RD. UNIT E. TAOS 2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

Rev. Susan Varon, Wedding Minister An Interfaith, Non-Denominational, Intercultural Ceremony YOUR Way

Rev. Susan Varon Interfaith Minister

Testimonials

Thank you once again for your magical ceremony; it was, in a word, perfect. Eric & Katherine We had so many people come up to us and tell us that it was the most touching ceremony they had ever seen, considering that most of them were Catholic, we were really happy to hear that! Jennifer & Ben Thank you for that rapturous service. It was incredibly touching…We were really moved… Ellen & Stephanie

Telephone 575-751-1452 Email susanintaos@juno.com TaosWeddings.Org 8

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

B R E AT H TA K I N G V I E W S

New Mexico’s Wedding Destination

INDOOR & OUTDOOR CEREMONIES 12,500 SQUARE FOOT FACILITY REHEARSAL DINNERS ONSITE CATERING RECEPTIONS

New Mexico’s Wedding Destination

CONTACT WEDDING & EVENTS COORDINATOR: J. HERRERA FB@TAOSCC.COM

INDOOR & OUTDOOR CEREMONIES 12,500DE SQUARE FACILITY 54 GOLF COURSE DRIVE RANCHOS TAOS,FOOT NM 87557 REHEARSAL DINNERS RECEPTIONS 5 7 5 ONSITE . 7 5 8 . 7CATERING 300

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

Plan Ahead A wedding checklist

'When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.' — Nora Ephron “When Harry Met Sally”

SIX MONTHS OR MORE PRIOR

THREE TO SIX MONTHS PRIOR

n Announce your engagement to family

n Contact photographer, caterer, baker,

and friends. n Create a budget. n Set a wedding date or season. n Select the wedding party. n Choose invitations. n Select gowns and tuxedos. n Register a name for your wedding website. n Visit ceremony, rehearsal dinner and reception sites. n Interview caterers, photographers, videographers, florists, performing artists and musicians. n Order passports and check immunization if leaving the country.

florist, musicians, performing artists and transporters. n Schedule fittings for you and attendants. n Finalize rentals and site for ceremony, reception and rehearsal dinner. n Select wedding rings. n Finalize music selection. n Start selecting flowers. n Finalize honeymoon and transportation plans (commercial or private). Get it in writing so no one is confused and late.

~Continued on page 12 10

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

For Your Special Day…

Choose the Finest.

Romantic Private Space Available | Restaurant Bookings | Patio Events Full Bar Service | Wine / Food Consultations | Event Planning

Whatever your dream, let us make it a reality!

146 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos | 575.751.3020 | martyrs-steakhouse.com 2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

~Continued from page 10

TWO TO THREE MONTHS PRIOR n Register for wedding gifts at the stores

of your choice. n Send invitations. n Complete guest list. n Reserve block of hotel rooms for outof-town guests. n Update your website with directions and hotel information. n Set hair, nail and makeup appointments for wedding day and bridal portrait. n Arrange care for pets if necessary. n Get marriage license and get forms for name change if necessary.

ONE WEEK PRIOR

n Remind attendants to pick up their

formal wear. n Finalize guest list and give to caterer or reception management. n Assign transportation of gifts, guest book, personal belongings and return of groom’s tuxedo. n Arrange for post office to hold mail. n Make spa appointment for wedding party for massage, manicures and pedicures.

WEDDING DAY EVE n Distribute wedding day schedule to

wedding party. n Attend wedding rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. n Nap, rest easy because all is well.

n Complete ceremony and reception

seating. n Pack for honeymoon. n Provide “special request” photo and music lists for photographer, videographer and ceremony and reception musicians.

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

Rev. Sandra Chestnutt Interfaith Minister of Walking Prayer Officiating compassionate, spiritual ceremonies reflecting your feelings, desires, and ideas.

• Elopements • Same-sex couples • Earthway Wedding Caravan Packages including photography and Native American flute

Available for indoor and outdoor venues in Northern New Mexico 575-779-4253 earthwalkmedicine.com

TAOS FLORAL DESIGNS

a SHELIA ROSS studio CUSTOM WEDDING & SPECIAL EVENT DESIGNS INSPIRED BY NATURE taosfloralsdesigns@gmail.com 575·737·0245 taosfloraldesigns.com 2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

Wedding wishes & dishes: Local registry options

ven with the popularity and ease of online shopping, local wedding registries are just as convenient and more important to the area's economy.

Registering for gifts in Taos gives the happy couple a hands-on selection experience and provides easier gift buying for locals and those travelers who don't want to lug packages around airports and onto planes.

Local businesses that offer wedding registries: MONET’S KITCHEN 124-M Bent St. (575) 758-8003 johndunnshops.com/ monetskitchen NAMBÉ 109 N. Plaza (575) 758-8221 nambe.com STARR INTERIORS 117 Paseo del Pueblo Norte 800-748-1756 star-interiors.com TAOS COOKERY 113 Bent St. (575) 758-5435 taoscookery.com TAOS LIFESTYLE 710-C1 Paseo del Pueblo Sur (575) 758-5885 taoslifestyle.com WABI-SABI 126-A Paseo del Pueblo Norte (575) 758-7801 wabisabigifts.net

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

FLowers aLways begin with Buds! Wedding Special $199窶田all for details!

Buds Flowers

711A Paseo del Pueblo Sur Taos, NM | 575-758-3555

silk flowers available budscutflowersandmore.com

2016 窶｢ taosnews.com/wedding 窶｢ A Taos Wedding

‘I have found the one whom my soul loves’ — Song of Solomon 3:4

Everything Enchanted Circle nuptials: Taos Wedding Expo 2016

Photos by Katharine Egli

Patricia Michaels Wedding Runway

ike an engagement ring and the smile of a bride-to-be, this year's second annual Taos Wedding Expo shines and sparkles with wedding ideas and services for every moment covering every detail of your big day.

honeymoon adventures for two and more.

Taos Wedding Expo 2016 will be held Feb. 13 at Sagebrush Inn & Suites, 1508 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featured are vendor exhibits; a 1 p.m. fashion show with famed, local Native designer Patricia Michaels for her label, PM Waterlilly; and door prizes, including a diamond ring donated by Leshem Diamonds and Gold,

A highlight at the expo again this year is the Fashion Show. Michaels was runnerup in the 2013 Season 11 of “Project Runway” on Lifetime Channel. Michaels also exhibited her designs at the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts, for the “Native Fashion Show," and she has been

The LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer — or questioning)friendly event is a showcase of local wedding resources hailing from around Northern New Mexico's Enchanted Circle communities of Taos, Taos Ski Valley, Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest and Angel Fire.

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

the recipient of many awards for her unique, creative clothing designs. The 2016 Taos Wedding Expo will have representatives and displays from venues, caterers, DJs, cake bakeries, music, florists, jewelers, photographers, event rentals, formal wear, officiants and transportation. Many cake and catering vendors will offer tastings to the public. Admission is $8 per person or $15 for two people at the door only. The Taos County Chamber of Commerce is continuing this event in the ongoing campaign to “keep Taos local” — put your money where your heart is! This event will

also highlight area providers for local and destination weddings in the Enchanted Circle. Destination weddings have become a mainstay of the wedding industry, and the Enchanted Circle draws many couples and families to hold their nuptials here. The local vendors who exhibited at the 2015 Taos Wedding Expo reported a fantastic return on investment by securing two to five weddings or event jobs as a result of participating in the expo. One exhibitor even booked more than 10 gigs. This venue provides the opportunity to present their businesses face to face to more than 300 anticipated attendees, and provides ~Continued on page 18

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

~Continued from page 17 networking with more than 40 wedding professionals serving the Enchanted Circle. According to the 2014 Wedding Report, the following statistics support the Taos County Chamber of Commerce's work to present the 2016 Taos Wedding Expo as an economic development driver: • 39 percent of all wedding couples will hire a wedding professional from a wedding show; • More than 250 weddings are held in Taos County each year; • An average of $18,947 is spent on Taos weddings with an average of 100-115 guests 18

attending; and • Taos County Chamber of Commerce is getting an increasing number of calls regarding wedding accommodations in Taos. The chamber worked with corporate sponsors to bring this event to the community. Generous sponsorship has been provided by the Sagebrush Inn & Suites’ Conference Center, The Taos News, Leshem Diamonds & Gold, Celebration Event Rentals, Taos Mountain Casino, Choice Wireless and the Taos County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and staff.

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

I M A G I N AT I V E

DESIGN

FOR AN UNFORGETTABALE OCCASSION

• Intimate Gatherings • Elegant Celebrations • Elaborate Affairs

PHOTO BY SHAYLA EDENFIELD

“Taos Flower Diva” Margaret Palmer Floral Design Wedding & Event Specialist

575-741-0408 www.taosflowerdiva.com Serving Taos & the Enchanted Circle

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

The ease of legalese

nless you take the right steps, your “I do’s” aren’t worth the paper they’re printed on if, well, you don’t have the paper they’re printed on. In the eyes of the law, regardless of whether the marriage ceremony itself is religious or civil, couples need to get and file a marriage license. Taos County and New Mexico laws in this matter are pretty simple. Couples can get married on the spot provided it’s officiated by an ordained or licensed clergyman or clergywoman or a judge. These are the only legal officiates the state recognizes. Two witnesses, not including the officiate, must sign on the dotted line. Marriages in New Mexico are gender

neutral. Same-sex weddings have been legal here since December 2013. To obtain a marriage license, you are required to go to the Taos County Clerk’s Office, where you must present a photo ID that shows your birth date, such as a driver’s license or passport. Both spouses-to-be must be present to sign the application. There is a $25 cash-only filing fee. The process takes about 15 minutes. The clerk’s office keeps a marriage license book that is open and available for public viewing. As such, marriage licenses are public record and could be published in The Taos News or any other publication. Media-shy couples can request a “do not publish” notice, which takes the form of a yellow sticky note affixed to the license, to keep it from appearing in print. — Staff Report

Marriage License WHO - Both spouses-to-be must be present to sign the application WHAT - Bring photo identification (that contains your birth date) and the $25 filing fee, cash only WHEN - 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, or by appointment WHERE - Taos County Clerk’s Office, 105 Albright St., (575) 737-6380 WHY - These are the legal requirements. After the ceremony, the license must be registered. The license can be physically delivered to the Taos County Clerk’s Office, or mailed using a provided envelope.

‘Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.’ — Maya Angelou, American poet, author

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

Specializing in Custom & Professional Wedding Design

Our award-winning floral design team is sure to make your wedding day one that you and your guests will remember for a lifetime. Free Wedding Consultation

See us at our new location in Pinon Plaza after March 1st 2016

From tents to table settings, we rent everything you need. TeNTS • TableS/ChairS • DaNCe Floor • liNeNS • ChiNa • ChaFer DiSheS • ChoColaTe FouNTaiN & MuCh More

Serving Northern New Mexico 575.758.8463 taoscelebrates.com

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

‘For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul.’ — Judy Garland, American actress, singer

Poetry in motion

Picture-perfect wedding portraits By Virginia L. Clark

apturing your wedding memories is probably the single-most important technical aspect of wedding planning. Practically any other thing can be replaced, a ring, a gown, “… something borrowed, something blue.” But you have to have great shots in the first place or those precious moments of the happy day simply fade away. So just because a friend or family member has a digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) or an advanced compact system camera, don’t make them your prime photographer. You want a pro. Here’s what photographer Megan Bowers Avina, of Taos, has to say about her wedding photography. “Good photographers can work a camera, great photographers can use a flash, amazing photographers NOTICE. Photographers are amazing observers. “Anyone can buy a bunch of lenses and lights, but it takes a person with a gift for observation,” Bowers Avina adds, also noting that having “a big heart doesn’t hurt either, to really capture those special images.” “The best memories from a wedding are the quiet ones,” Bowers Avina says. “The minutes in between, when a father whispers to his daughter during the first dance, when a sister fixes her brother’s boutonniere, when a grandmother holds the groom’s hand in the hallway before the I do’s — those are the moments ‘in between.’ I live for those moments.” Photographer Deanna Nelson, of Taos, also keeps it candid and unobtrusive. 22

“A wedding is a very photogenic event and it’s a gift how many sincere and natural ‘scenes’ present themselves during the event. The tricky part is trying to capture the shots without being intrusive … beautiful shots present themselves and then can disappear in seconds. If I see an awesome scene appear, I have my subjects ‘freeze,’ and I will make a few minor changes and grab the shot. The pose is pretty much created without my help.” To get essentially “unposed” images, Nelson purposely gives very little instruction so “everything looks a bit impromptu,” though she acknowledges sometimes it’s necessary to “create” a candid shot, she says, laughing at her non-sequitur. “Although the idea sounds ridiculous, the results are usually stunning. I take great pride in my work and enjoy the challenge of composing a photograph to appear uncontrived.” Taos photographer Brendan Curran says “documentary portraiture is our style.” His assistants are his daughter and son, Sparrow Skywalker and Trempealeau Morninglight, who hold reflectors, carry gear, “watch for photo bombs” and more. “They know what a scene is supposed to look like. We go out and capture all the special things people want to make it a special day.” “We’re going to be photographing you like you’re the president of the United States,” Curran says, noting he makes sure people are ultimately comfortable with being the center of attention, all the while he and his assistants work diligently behind the scenes. “We get them from the beginning of the day to the end. It’s a lot of work and we’re really good at it.”

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

Photographer Listing POETIC IMAGES BY DEANNA

527 Este Es Road, Taos, NM 87571• (575) 779-0755 poeticimages.net

BRENDAN CURRAN PHOTOGRAPHY

P.O. Box 2731, Taos, NM 87571 • (575) 770-8806 brendancurryphotography.com

MEGAN BOWERS AVINA

(575) 770-2122 • facebook.com/TaosWeddings 2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

Tying-the-knot trivia:

Some wedding facts to ponder as you plan your special day Good luck, bad luck • Hey, brides, tuck a sugar cube into your glove — according to Greek culture, the sugar will sweeten your union. • The English believe a spider found in a wedding dress means good luck. Eek! • In English tradition, Wednesday is considered the “best day” to marry, although Monday is for wealth and Tuesday is for health. Saturday is the unluckiest wedding day, according to English folklore. Funny — it’s the most popular day of the week to marry. • Rain on your wedding day is actually considered good luck, according to Hindu tradition. • For good luck, Egyptian women pinch the bride on her wedding day. Ouch! • In Holland, a pine tree is planted outside the newlyweds’ home as a symbol of fertility and luck.

It’s got a ring to it

• Engagement and wedding rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it was once thought that a vein in that finger led directly to the heart. • Diamonds set in gold or silver became popular as betrothal rings among wealthy Venetians toward the end of the 15th century. • A pearl engagement ring is said to be bad luck because its shape echoes that of a tear.

Fashionable lore

• Queen Victoria started the Western world’s white wedding dress trend in 1840 — before then, a bride simply wore her best dress. • Ancient Greeks and Romans thought a veil protected the bride from evil spirits. Brides have worn veils ever since.

• In Denmark, brides and grooms traditionally cross-dressed to confuse evil spirits.

Reception know-it-all

• In many cultures around the world — including Celtic, Hindu and Egyptian weddings — the hands of a bride and groom are literally tied together to demonstrate the couple’s commitment to each other and their new bond as a married couple (giving us the popular phrase “tying the knot”). • The Roman goddess Juno rules over marriage, the hearth and childbirth, hence the popularity of June weddings. • Princess Victoria established the tradition of playing Wagner’s “Bridal Chorus” during her wedding processional in 1858. • The bride stands to the groom’s left during a Christian ceremony because, in bygone days, the groom needed his right hand free to fight off other suitors. • The Catholic tradition of “posting the banns” to announce a marriage originated as a way to ensure the bride and groom were not related. • Stag parties were first held by ancient Spartan soldiers, who kissed their bachelor days goodbye with a raucous party. — Courtesy of theknot.com

Bet you didn’t know

If you send Mickey and Minnie Mouse or Cinderella and Prince Charming an invitation to your wedding, they will send you back an autographed photo and a “just married” button. The address: Mickey & Minnie (or Cinderella & Prince Charming), The Walt Disney Company, 500 South Buena Vista Street, Burbank, CA 91521.

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

A Heritage Hotels & Resorts Property

EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR wEddIng gUIdE REadERS 20% OFF MEnU PRICIng FOR nEw 2016 BOOKIngS! COnTaCT OUR wEddIng EXPERTS TO STaRT PLannIng THE MOST MEMORaBLE daY OF YOUR LIFE ELMOnTESagRadO.COM | 575-758-3502 2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

Emily Benoist Ruffin Contemporary

GOLDSMITHS

award winning designs

Mokume Gane

Mixed Metals

Handmade

Custom

antique

Since 1980

Fine European Handwork in the Noble Metals

Handmade & Custom Wedding & Partners’ Rings 119 Bent Street or PO BOX 1510 | taos, new mexico 87571 | 575-758-1061 | ruffin@newmex.com

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

Themed weddings take the cake By Teresa Dovalpage

Courtesy photo

One of Susan Carpenter Sims', a Taos-based ordained celebrant, favorite wedding themes is labyrinths.

on the rise.

rom “Harry Potter” to “Downton Abbey” settings, from Victorian to vintage, themed weddings are

The best thing about them is that there are no rules, except for those the couple makes. Those who reject the cookie-cutter approach to tying the knot can give free rein to their creativity. Other advantages: guests tend to get more involved in the function than during traditional weddings and the usually colorful ceremonies make great pictures, either for a wedding album or just Instagram. They are all about personalizing love. “My fiancé and I are planning a rusticthemed wedding in a friend’s goat farm,” said Celeste Barclay, a science teacher and 28

environmentalist. “We loved the fact that we will be declaring not only our love for each other, but also our shared passion for nature, the outdoors and all things earthy.”

An officiant’s perspective

Susan Carpenter Sims, a Taos-based ordained celebrant, has performed a number of themed weddings and unique ceremonies specifically created for the couple. “Ceremonies are profound in direct proportion to how personalized they are,” she said. “This is why I love doing weddings that are uniquely designed in collaboration with my couples to reflect their values and taste, and who they truly are as individuals and as a couple.” As an officiant, Sims always tries to find

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

~Continued on page 30

Wedding Photography + Video

575.613.0027

Photography

RZSPROD.COM

Design

Video

Razor Sharp Productions | Taos, New Mexico 87571 | ruben@rzsprod.com

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

‘When I saw you I fell in love, and you smiled because you knew’ — William Shakespeare

~Continued from page 28 a guiding thread for all the ceremonies. The “theme” she devises can be pretty subtle or multifaceted.

had a Dr. Seuss theme. I even structured the vows to have a Seuss-like rhyme scheme.”

“I’m writing a wedding currently, for example, around the motifs of spaciousness, light, circles and silence,” she said, “but it’s not going to come across to the guests as some big overarching theme.”

One of Sims’ favorite themes for a wedding is labyrinths. She has performed several ceremonies at Adobe & Pines Inn, a 178-yearold Spanish hacienda with a 75-foot diameter labyrinth on the property.

Sims has also done weddings with quite obvious and even quirky themes when it suits the couple. “I did one in Red River where the entire wedding party and most of the guests were dressed in Victorian costumes with little top hats that the groom and his father had made for everyone,” she said. “The ceremony itself

Love in the labyrinth

“Everyone walks the labyrinth together and the couple gets married in the center of it,” she said. “Labyrinths provide a wonderful framework and metaphor for a wedding ceremony, in that walking them is calming and meditative and symbolically reflects the twisting, turning journey that a marriage really is.” Courtesy photo

Sims officates a Victorian-, Dr. Seuss-themed ceremony in Red River.

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

JOCELYN’S CAKES Jocelyn Lucero Designer 575 751 6281 • jocelyncakes@msn.com

taosweddingcakes.com

Navigate

where to go and

what TO DO with one simple click:

taosnews.com/calendar

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

Bodas gratis aquí

Free Valentine’s Day nuptials at famed bridge By Scott Gerdes

Photo by Katharine Egli

Emily walks down the sidewalk of the Río Grande Gorge Bridge before marrying Austin Wilde on Feb. 14, 2015. ou will find, as you look back upon your life, that the moments when you have truly lived are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love,” penned Henry Drummond, a Scottish evangelist, writer and lecturer who lived from the mid- to late 1800s. That spirit of love calls to the couples who venture to picturesque, romantic Taos seeking a simple, inexpensive union, whether planned in advance or inspired from spontaneity. That spirit also nibbled at the heart of Eighth Judicial District Judge Jeff Shannon, 32

who has been offering free Valentine’s Day nuptials at the Río Grande Gorge Bridge for the last three years. When Shannon first became a judge in 2012, a couple asked him to marry them on the famed span, which he did in 2013. The ceremony gave him an idea: Why not park out there on the Day of Love, Feb. 14, whether blowing snow or beaming sunshine, and unite couples free of charge? While thinking it over, Shannon learned about similar Valentine’s Day weddings such as those performed at no cost at the Echo Amphitheater in Abiquiú by Río Arriba County Magistrate Judge Alexandra Naranjo. Also, the ninth floor of Metropolitan Court in Albuquerque has become “wedding

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

central” on Valentine’s Day. So Shannon dove in. He camped out in his car at the Río Grande Gorge Bridge with a sign that read, “Weddings Aquí” (Weddings Here). Shannon married three couples that first year. Last year, he joined 14 in matrimony. Weddings are a pleasant departure from the often tense and negative courtroom environment. It’s one of the few times everyone appearing in front of the judge is in a euphoric frame of mind. “I enjoy it,” he expressed. “It’s fun seeing

people get married. And it’s nice to give people options.” Looking back with fondness in his eyes, Shannon recalled a Jewish couple who renewed their vows on the bridge and had to be covered with a wedding canopy. Then there was the bride-to-be from Albuquerque who wore her wedding dress in the car during the entire ride to Taos. And in his courtroom, Shannon wed celebrity dancer, choreographer, artistic director and part-time Carson resident Bill T. Jones and his partner a year and a half ago. He has also officiated a couple of unions in Spanish. ~Continued on page 34 Courtesy of Jeff Shannon

On left, Ray Dowd, 81, and Bebe Bass, 79, wed on the Río Grande Gorge Bridge on June 12, 2014 — the 48th anniversary of their first date.

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

Photo by Katharine Egli

Taos Magistrate Judge Jeff Shannon marries his first couple of the day at the Río Grande Gorge Bridge on Valentine’s Day 2015. This is the third year in a row Judge Shannon will be performing free weddings at the iconic landmark. ~Continued from page 33 The wedding of Oklahomans Ray Dowd and Bebe Bass, though, is one of his favorite bridge ceremonies to date. It was June 12, 2014, when the same-sex couple decided to finally get hitched. It was the 48th anniversary of their first date. Dowd and Bass were 33 and 31 years old, respectively, when they started dating in 1966, making them 81 and 79 when they legally got to say “I do.” Shannon laughed about having to shout out the vows over the gusting gorge wind while unaware he was yelling into Dowd’s bum ear. “His spouse-to-be said, ‘That’s his bad ear,’” Shannon shared. “So they switched sides.” 34

No matter the couples’ genders, religious affiliations or the weather, Shannon will be at the ready on the bridge from noon to 4 p.m. this Valentine’s Day. He cannot accept tips, and he doesn’t want them. He only asks that couples bring two witnesses who are older than 18 years, and a marriage license from any New Mexico county clerk’s office. Since Valentine’s Day lands on a Sunday this year, licenses must be attained by the Friday prior. It is Shannon’s long-term plan that as long as he’s a judge, he’ll always clear his calendar for free Valentine’s Day nuptials, no matter what day of the week it falls on.

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

CELEBRATE YOUR LOVE IN A LANDSCAPE JUST AS

TIMELESS

STUNNING CLIFF WALLS, RED CANYONS & EXPANSIVE SKIES THIS HISTORIC RANCH IS THE VENUE TO CREATE THE WEDDING YOU’VE DREAMED OF.

GHOSTRANCH.ORG for more information 2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

A love story

Meant to grow old together By Scott Gerdes

Courtesy photo

After being divorced for 10 years, Roe and Thomas Zicarrello re-wed in 1993.

hoever emphatically says love and marriage can’t come full circle doesn’t know the power of family and friendship.

There was no question they loved each other, but immaturity and financial instability would prove to be insurmountable for the couple Roe described as having “Peter Pan syndrome.”

Rosalie “Roe” Sabordo met Thomas Ziccarello in 1981 while auditioning for a Polynesian dance troupe in New York City; Roe as a vocalist and Thomas as a drummer. Both were hired and, over the course of a year, became best friends. Love naturally followed.

They welcomed their first child, Chloe, within the first year of marriage. While a joyous event, the musicians admittedly weren’t prepared. Three years later, a second child, Gian, was born.

The couple wed in 1983 before embarking on a backpacking trip through Europe, mostly due to Thomas’ insistence that a married couple would be safer on such a journey. She was “almost 25,” and he was 22.

“We divorced six years later, mainly because it is difficult to raise a family with both parents being musicians. We had two small children, ages 2 and 5. The financial ups and downs can really take its toll on a marriage. We were actually too young to ~Continued on page 41

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

Saturday, February 13, 2016 10AM – 4PM • SAgebruSh Inn & SuIteS • 1508 PASeo del Pueblo Sur

Photo by tINA LARKIN

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

StAge

o7 o6

Exhibitors

o5 o4 o3

CAkes 14 Cakes by Mariel

CAtering Albertson’s Delancy Street Farmhouse Café Jethro’s Genuine Texas BBQ

CosmetiCs & dermAtology

dJ’s & sound engineering/ rentAls 19 DJ Oliver Knight 19 Soundworks

event rentAls 8 & 13 Celebrations Event Rentals 19 Soundworks

bAr

reStrooM

04 Los Rios River Runners

36 Dillard’s 29 Rodan & Fields 15 Younique Lavish Lash Babe

Adventure/ rAfting

03 33 24 20

36 35 34 33 32

21 reStrooM

* lobbY

fAshion 31 Patricia Michaels for PM Waterlily

flowers 09 Enchanted Florist 23 Margaret Palmer Floral Design 17 Taos Floral Design

gifts/ housewAres 30 Cheryl Neuenschwander Gifts 36 Dillard’s 07 Dinner 4 Two * Choice Wireless * Moxie Fair Trade

insurAnCe 34 Holy Cross Hospital 11 Molina Heath Care * Wanda Lucero State Farm Agency

Jewelers 22 & 27 Leshem Diamonds & Gold

PhotogrAPhy 21 Carville Bourg Photographer

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

06 02 32 25 05

E&E Special Events Lucky Shot Photo Parlor Nick and Suelo Photography Poetic Images by Deanna Sean Kelly Portraits

sPeCiAl event PlAnners 06 E&E Special Events 09 Zia Event Design

vAlet & limousine *

Santa Fe Valet & Limousine Service

venues 01 33 12 30 24 35 28 26 16 10

Angel Fire Resort Delancy Street El Monte Sagrado Elope to Santa Fe Farmhouse Café KTAOS Old Martin’s Hall Sagebrush Inn and Suites Taos Art Museum Taos Country Club Town of Red River

* Lobby

10AM – 4PM • SAgebruSh Inn & SuIteS • 1508 PASeo del Pueblo Sur tIcketS $8 At the door, $15 for two tAoSweddIngexPo.coM

exhIbItS oPen & door Prize drAwings 1O AM — 4 PM

FAShIon Show with PAtriCiA miChAels for Pm wAterlily 1 PM

FInAl door PrIze drAwIngS

inCluding A diAmond ring from leshem diAmonds & gold 3:45 PM

SPonSored bY

Diamonds & Gold

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

Soundworks 575-779-4413 aidan101@gmail.com

Lucky Shot Photo Parlor 575-613-5462 luckyshotphotoparlor.com

fAshion

Nick and Suelo–Photography 505-289-0090 nickandsuelo.com

Patricia Michaels for PM Waterlily 575-779-5322 patrciamichaels.com

Adventure/ rAfting

Enchanted Florist 575-758-3030 taosflorist.com

Sean Kelly Portraits 575-770-4367 seankellyportraits.com

CAkes

Margaret Palmer Floral Design 575-741-0408 taosflowerdiva.com

sPeCiAl event PlAnners

Cakes by Mariel 575-770-0855 luv143@hotmail.com

Taos Floral Design 575-737-0245 taosfloraldesigns.com

CAtering

gifts/housewAres

Albertson’s 575-758-1250 albertsons.com

Zia Event Design 575-779-9008 ziaeventdesign.com

Cheryl Neuenschwander Gifts 435-901-4767 cherylboday@gmail.com

vAlet & limousine serviCes

Delancy Street 505-852-4291 · dsf.com

Choice Wireless 1-800-CHOICE9 nm.choice-wireless.com

Santa Fe Valet & Limousine Service 505-424-2171 accentsantafe.com

Los Rios River Runners 575-776-8854 losriosriverrunners.com

Farmhouse Café 575-758-5683 farmhousecafeandbakery.com Jethro’s Genuine Texas BBQ 575-770-4317 jethrostexasbbq@gmail.com

CosmetiCs & dermAtology Dillard’s 505-473-2900 Dillard’s.com Rodan & Fields 575-779-2260 mgonzales.myrandf.com Younique Lavish Lash Babe 505-360-8799 lavishlashbabe.com

dJ’s & sound engineering/ rentAls DJ Oliver Knight 575-779-5705 djoliverknight@gmail.com

Dillard’s 505-473-2900 dillards.com Dinner 4 Two 608-669-3069 dinner4two.com Moxie Fair Trade 575-758-1256

insurAnCe Holly Cross Hospital 575-751-5811 holycrossfoundation.org Molina Heath Care 505-342-4660 molinahealthcare.com Wanda Lucero State Farm Agency 575-737-5433 wandalucero.com

Jewelers Leshem Diamonds & Gold 575-758-1573 leshemdiamonds.com

E&E Special Events 214-808-9680 elenacone.com

venues Angel Fire Resort 575-377-4321 angelfireresort.com Delancy Street 505-852-4291 · dsf.com El Monte Sagrado 575-737-9822 elmontesagrado.com Elope to Santa Fe 435-901-4767 cherylboday@gmail.com Farmhouse Café 575-758-5683 farmhousecafeandbakery.com KTAOS 575-758-5826 ktaos.com Old Martina’s Hall 575-758-3003 oldmartinashall.com

PhotogrAPhy

Sagebrush Inn and Suites 575-758-2254 sagebrushinn.com

event rentAls

Carville Bourg Photographer 575-770-7676 f1eight.com

Taos Art Museum 575-758-2690 x106 taosartmuseum.org

Celebrations Event Rentals 575-758-8463 taoscelebrates.com

E&E Special Events 218-808-9680 elenacone.com

Taos Country Club 575-758-7300 taoscountryclub.info

Soundworks 575-779-4413 aidan101@gmail.com

flowers

Poetic Images by Deanna 575-779-0755 poeticimages.net

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

~Continued from page 36 handle the responsibility of being parents as well, which eventually led to our divorce (in 1989),” Roe revealed. “However, our backpacking adventure also led to a deeper and more spiritual connection that would sustain our friendship.” So often divorce leads to irreparable separation exacerbated by distance. But Thomas wasn’t about to let that happen, even though he moved to New Jersey and Roe returned to school to pursue a bachelor’s degree in education at Georgia State. “Thomas became the best ex-husband ever,” she stated wholeheartedly. “He not only sent me child support faithfully, he would buy his kids clothes at yard sales and send us packages monthly. He also would just send extra money out of the blue. To boot, he flew to Atlanta every other month just to see his kids.” Because of the regularity of seeing each other and spending time together as a family, they became best friends all over again. “We each dated other people, and because we were such close friends, we sought one another’s advice about the ups and downs of the whole dating scene,” Roe confessed. “The epiphany came when I realized that I loved talking about my kids with him.” Being able to share her “exuberance” of parenting with Thomas ultimately led them to fall in love all over again. But this time they were more sensible. “Being older, wiser and more mature allowed us both to prioritize,” Roe explained. “Our mutual love for our children was paramount to everything. Plus, our shared interests of music, travel, hanging out with kids and overall passion for life led us to the understanding that we were truly meant to grow old together.” The couple remarried in 1993 after Roe attained her degree. She teaches the sixth grade at Taos International School. “While I was a single mother of two, I was able to receive enough financial aid to pay for school,” Roe said. “Becoming gainfully employed immediately lessened the original financial burdens.”

Courtesy photo

A portrait after the Ziccarello family’s first wedding in 1983. One burden no parent anticipates, however, is the death of a child. Sorrowfully, Gian was killed in a car accident in 2003. He was just 15 years old. In 1997, the Ziccarellos had their third child, Joey. In 1999, they adopted Chloe’s best friend, Rachel. “Moving to Taos in 2004 allowed us to heal amid the glorious scenery and friendly surroundings,” Roe described about the time following Gian’s death. “Becoming foster parents two years later allowed us to continue to share our love for children. It also gave our youngest son, Joey, enormous opportunities to experience and conceive compassion and empathy for those less fortunate. Our relationship has had tumultuous sorrow, but also astounding joys. As we are learning to weather this new phase of empty nest, our greatest joy is knowing that we have each other.” On April 18, the Ziccarellos will celebrate their first marriage’s anniversary of 33 years. Then, on July 10, they will celebrate the anniversary of their second marriage of 23 years. Roe also shared that both daughters waited to wed until they were 28 years old, “probably due to my recommendation of waiting for wisdom and maturity.” That, and instilling the importance of marrying your best friend.

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

‘Now join hands, and with your hands your hearts.’ — William Shakespeare

Venues

Perfect places to say ‘I do’ ADOBE & PINES INN 4107 State Road 48, Ranchos de Taos 1-855-828-7872 (575) 751-0947 adobepines.com Often nationally voted as one of the most romantic bed and breakfasts in the Southwest, this charming, preserved adobe hacienda — more than 170 years old — features scenic country grounds and private patios for strolling and sitting, and full gourmet breakfasts.There are many choices for your ideal ceremony, including a labyrinth. ALPINE VILLAGE SUITES 110 Thunderbird Road, Taos Ski Valley 1-800-576-2666 alpine-suites.com The conference room is perfect for receptions, rehearsal dinners or bachelor/bachelorette parties. AMIZETTE INN AND RESTAURANT 1295 State Road 250, Taos Ski Valley 1-800-446-8267 amizetteinn.com The Amizette Inn is a small mountain inn located at 9,000 feet, with a spacious 42

dining room overlooking the Río Hondo, bordered by a trout stream, wilderness area and hiking trails. It is just 1.5 miles from the ski lifts. A nondenominational Christian minister is available to officiate weddings. Accommodations and onsite catering are available for up to 40 people.

Valley 1-888-205-8020 (575) 776-8020 thebavarian.com A favorite hangout for skiers and snowboarders,The Bavarian is also available for weddings and receptions. Its seclusion and luxury within a pristine wilderness provide an intimate alpine wedding.

ANGEL FIRE RESORT 10 Miller Lane, Angel Fire 1-888-472-0124 angelfireresort.com Nestled high in the breathtaking Sangre de Cristo Mountains of Northern New Mexico, Angel Fire Resort provides the ideal backdrop for a perfect wedding day. The indoor or outdoor venues accommodate weddings of any style, meticulously planned by an experienced event staff.

CASA BENAVIDES 137 Kit Carson Road, Taos 1-800-552-1772 taos-casabenavides.com This charming and beautifully appointed bed and breakfast inn makes for a perfect backdrop for a Taos wedding. The courtyard and gardens offer a wonderful outdoor setting. Indoor event facilities express unique Southwest ambience. Casa Benavides is located in the heart of Taos, just steps from Taos Plaza.

THE AUSTING HAUS BED & BREAKFAST 1282 State Road 150, Taos Ski Valley 1-800-748-2932 theaustinghaus.com Hold your wedding in the tallest standing timber-frame structure in the country. THE BAVARIAN LODGE AND RESTAURANT 100 Kachina Road, Taos Ski

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

COLUMBINE INN 1288 State Road 150, Taos Ski Valley 1-888-884-5723 (575) 776-5723 columbineinn.com This locally owned and operated mountain resort at Taos Ski Valley provides a stunning place for nuptials amid pristine views and all that Taos Ski Valley has to offer from world-class skiing and crowd-free hiking

to small-town festivals. Columbine Inn specializes in outdoor ceremonies of 10 to 75 people. Lodging, meals and transportation can be provided. EDELWEISS LODGE AND SPA 106 Sutton Place, Taos Ski Valley 1-800-458-8754 (575) 737-6900 edelweisslodgeandspa.com In addition to being a luxurious place to stay and relax, the lodge’s Club Room is an ideal spot for small events, such as rehearsal dinners.Tables and chairs can easily be arranged for theater seating (approximately 30 people), U-formation (approximately 24 people), or individual tables to best suit your needs.The Club Room also offers an integrated sound system, wireless and ethernet Internet, as well as complete audio-visual facilities. EL MONTE SAGRADO LIVING RESORT AND SPA 317 Kit Carson Road, Taos 1-855-846-8267 (575) 758-3502 elmontesagrado.com This unique setting has an array of customized and regular wedding packages. Located in the heart of Taos, the lushness of El Monte Sagrado presents a dream destination for couples wishing to make their wedding day truly special. Imagine a wedding,

commitment ceremony or reception in their Sacred Circle surrounded by views of mountains, waterfalls, ponds and towering 80-yearold cottonwoods. HACIENDA DEL SOL

109 Mabel Dodge Lane, Taos

1-866-333-4459 taoshaciendadelsol.com This bed and breakfast inn has a full-service wedding package for up to 100 guests. It boasts a beautiful courtyard garden with Taos Mountain as the backdrop, indoor/outdoor reception/ dining area and food prepared by professional owner/master chef, plus luxurious accommodations for the bridal party and families. Special group rates are available for 10 or more rooms. KIT CARSON HOME AND MUSEUM 113 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 758-4945 kitcarsonmuseum.com Situated right in the middle of Taos, the Kit Carson Home and Museum still stands in its original footprint. The territorial-style adobe was built circa 1825.This historic homestead is where Kit Carson and his family lived and where Carson conducted affairs as an Indian agent for the Northern Ute and Taos Pueblo peoples. The courtyard is available for intimate weddings.

KTAOS SOLAR CENTER 9 State Road 150, El Prado (575) 758-5826 ktao.com The KTAOS Solar Center, home of KTAO radio, is available for weddings and receptions. Indoor seating arrangements can accommodate up to 450 people and the scenic backyard area can host up to 600 guests. OLD MARTINA’S HALL 4140 State Road 68, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-3003 oldmartinashall.com Newly renovated and enhanced with state-of-theart equipment, the venue more than adequately accommodates weddings big and small.There is also a large music and dance hall and restaurant. PALACIO DE MARQUESA 405 Cordoba Road, Taos (575) 758-4777 marquesataos.com Located in a quiet, tree-lined residential neighborhood, the luxury of Palacio de Marquesa is the perfect place for smaller, more intimate weddings with available packages and specials. RED RIVER CONFERENCE CENTER 101 W. River St., Red River 1-877-855-3885 (575) 754-1708 redriver.org

~Continued on page 44 2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding 43

~Continued from page 43

With plenty of space to hold the rehearsal dinner, reception and wedding, the state-of-the-art center — with a full-service commercial kitchen and easy access to Brandenburg Park in the heart of town — is a popular place for large-scale weddings. SABROSO RESTAURANT AND BAR 470 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco (575) 776-3333 sabrosotaos.com This restaurant and bar is housed in a historic 150-year-old adobe in the tiny village of Arroyo Seco in between Taos and Taos Ski Valley.The cuisine and atmosphere is great for weddings, rehearsal dinners, day-after brunches and receptions. SAN GERONIMO LODGE 1101 Witt Road, Taos 1-800-894-4119 sangeronimolodge.com Off the beaten path, San Geronimo Lodge is a semirustic, serene spot for a wedding. For more than 80 years, the lodge has featured a pavilion dripping in New Mexico character and an outdoor space that hosts up to 300 people. 44

SNOW BEAR INN 22 Firehouse Road, Taos Ski Valley 1-800-243-5253 (575) 776-2313 snowbearinn.com Snow Bear Inn is a popular spot for an outdoor wedding surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountain.The inn features accommodations including hotel rooms, luxury suites and condo units. TAOS CONVENTION CENTER 120 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos (575) 737-2617 taosconventioncenter.com Coronado Hall at the Taos Convention Center offers the El Alcade, Los Angelitos and El Taoseño rooms available for rent, providing a variety of options for any size wedding party. In addition, two patios provide more than 5,400 square feet of open air space. TAOS COUNTRY CLUB 54 Golf Course Drive, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-7300 taoscountryclub.com Something old, something new, something with a fabulous view.Taos Country Club has an onsite, experienced wedding planner for a memorable event planned down to the

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

finest detail. TAOS TENNIS AT QUAIL RIDGE 88 State Road 150, El Prado 1-800-624-4448 (575) 776-2211 taostennis.com Taos Tennis at Quail Ridge has 6,000 square feet of building space and 7.5 acres at its disposal.This includes a large and a small conference room, a large and small patio, .3-acre park and a heated swimming pool complex open Memorial Day through Labor Day with a 4-foot gas grill. TOUCHSTONE INN

110 Mabel Dodge Lane, Taos

(575) 758-0192 touchstoneinn.com The secluded grounds at Touchstone Inn (circa 1800) provide a wonderful option for your Taos wedding. Choose among many special sites in the gardens bordering Taos Pueblo lands and special wedding packages for 20 to 100 guests.Touchstone offers grassy lawns, secret patios and playing fountains to add ambiance to your wedding reception.The inn also provides catering, a romantic honeymoon suite and an ordained minister or a Taos Shaman officiate.

ELEGANTE FLORALS... FLOWERS FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Weddings & Special Events

PHOTO BY MILESWITTBOYER.COM PHOTO BY ROBIN PARROTT PHOTOGRAPHY

CONTEMPORARY, TRADITIONAL AND UNIQUE DESIGNS

Mercedes Valdez

Elegante Florals

575-741-0637

Taos, NM

eleganteflorals.com

Pro-Mobile DJ Entertainment Bridal Showcases, Corporate Events, Holiday Parties, Teen Events, Trade Shows, Weddings, Sports Jam Arena, Community Events Over 20 Years of Mobile Sound and Lighting Experience JoJo Valdez 575-741-6061 stadiumjamjojo@gmail.com

2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

‘If I had a flower for every time I thought of you, I could walk in my garden forever.’ — Alfred Lord Tennyson, British poet

The language of flowers

he colors, shapes and scents of flowers are added impact to any wedding. Choosing the right flowers for bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres and arrangements comes down to personal taste, season and even location of your wedding. In the Taos environs, wildflowers, sage and sunflowers are naturally abundant. Local florists also have portfolios of other flowers and a choice of arrangements. Flowers aren’t just beautiful accents; they have a language all their own. Beginning in the Victorian era, some flowers replaced words in a most romantic way. Here is a sampling of some popular wedding flowers and their weddingappropriate meanings.

Baby’s Breath MEANING: Innocence BEST FOR: Filler in bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres SCENT: None IN SEASON:Year-round PRICE RANGE: Inexpensive

Carnation

MEANING: Pink represents a mother’s undying love; light red symbolizes adoration; dark red signifies deep love and affection; and white means pure love and good luck. Beware the striped carnation (it means refusal) and the yellow variety (it means disdain). BEST FOR: Bouquets, boutonnieres and arrangements SCENT: Very light fragrance or none at all, depending on variety In season: Year-round PRICE range: Inexpensive 46

Lily MEANING: Majesty, truth, honor (except for the yellow lily, which signifies falsehood) BEST FOR: Bouquets and arrangements SCENT: Fragrant IN SEASON: Summer PRICE RANGE: Moderate to expensive

Orchid

MEANING: Love, beauty BEST FOR: Bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres SCENT: None IN SEASON: Year-round PRICE RANGE: Expensive

Roses

MEANING: Red signifies love, beauty, respect and courage; dark red means unconscious beauty; white represents happy love; pink symbolizes gentility, femininity, elegance and refinement; yellow means joy, gladness, friendship and promise of a new beginning; and red and white placed together signifies unity. BEST FOR: Bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres and arrangements SCENT: Lightly to very fragrant, depending on variety IN SEASON: Year-round PRICE RANGE: Moderate to expensive

Local florists Buds Cut Flowers & More

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

711A Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3555

The Enchanted Florist 233-C Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos taosflorist.com (575) 758-3030

Designer • Ethical Sources • Custom

• custom & handmade in Santa Fe • canadian diamonds • america’s only fairtrade gold jeweler 912 baca st., santa fe

888-733-5238

reflectivejewelry.com 2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

Engagement Announcement The engagement of (spouse-to-be 1) of (town) to (spouse-to-be 2) of (town) has been announced: ______________________________________________________________________ Spouse-to-be 1’s parents are (names) of (town): ______________________________________________________________________ A (date, month, season) wedding is planned at (location): ______________________________________________________________________ (Spouse-to-be 1) is a graduate of/attends (high school, vocational school, college): ______________________________________________________________________ Spouse-to-be 1 is a member of (clubs, affiliations): ______________________________________________________________________ Spouse-to-be 1 is employed by (employer): ______________________________________________________________________ Spouse-to-be 2 is the child of (names) of (town): ______________________________________________________________________ Spouse-to-be 2 is a graduate of/attends (high school, vocational school, college): ______________________________________________________________________ Spouse-to-be 2 is a member of (clubs, affiliations): ______________________________________________________________________ Spouse-to-be 2 is employed by (employer): ______________________________________________________________________ Signature and telephone number of responsible party: ______________________________________________________________________ Note: Engagements and weddings are published in The Taos News as space permits. Please bring information into The Taos News offices a month before the wedding. Announcements may be accompanied by a photograph of the bride or couple. Color photos are preferred, although black and white is acceptable. If neither the bride nor groom is a Taos-area resident, list the nearest relative living in the Taos area. Email is the preferred method for receiving announcements. Send email to editor@taosnews.com. Or, mail forms and photos to: The Taos News, P.O. Box 3737, Taos, NM 87571. Attn: Engagement (or wedding) announcements

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

Tied the Knot?

Photo by Vishu Magee

Now it’s time to buy your dream home!

Find the latest edition online at enchantedhomeseller.com 2016 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

Wedding Announcement The marriage of (spouse 1) of (town) to (spouse 2) (date) occurred in (location):

Best man was (name) of (town), (relationship to couple):

_________________________________

(Clergyman, other) officiated in the double/ single ring ceremony:

_________________________________

Groomsmen were (names, towns, relationships):

Spouse 1’s parents are of:

_________________________________

Spouse 2’s parents are of:

Flowergirl was (name) of (town), (relationship to couple):

_________________________________

The (location) was decorated with (altar, flowers, candles, other): _________________________________ Music was provided by (organist, soloist, other): _________________________________ Spouse 1 wore (simple description of the formal wear, including unusual or traditional elements): _________________________________ The maid/matron of honor was (name) of (town), (relationship to couple): _________________________________ _________________________________ Bridesmaids were (names, towns, relationships):

_________________________________ Ringbearer was (name) of (town), (relationship to couple): _________________________________ _________________________________ The wedding cake was (description of cake): _________________________________ Spouse 1 is employed at: _________________________________ Spouse 2 is employed at: _________________________________ Signature and telephone number of responsible party: _________________________________ _________________________________

_________________________________ _________________________________

Poetic Images by Deanna

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2016

Y O U R S P E C I A L D AY SHOULD BE EXTRAORDINARY Let us be your chef, florist and your p e r s o n a l c a ke m a ke r FROM AN INTIMATE GATHERING TO A LAVISH BANQUET WE CATER TO YOUR NEEDS

7 1 0 A P a s e o d e l P u e b l o S u r • Ta o s • 7 5 8 . 1 2 5 0 • a l b e r t s o n s . c o m