SPRING & SUMMER 2022
COUNTDOWN TO THE BIG DAY ... 12-13
FIVE ESSENTIAL PLANNING TIPS TO MAKE YOUR OUTDOOR WEDDING PERFECT ... 28-29
WEDDING TRENDS 2022 ... 33-39
WEDDING VENUE DIRECTORY ... 42-43
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COASTALWEDDING.COM
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Features MAKING A MEANINGFUL WEDDING TOAST
HONEYMOON ROAD TRIP 4 TRAITS TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
WEDDING DESTINATION TIMELINE & CELEBRATION IDEAS coasta l w eddi n g .com
A WHOLE NEW LEVEL OF GORGEOUSNESS 2022 | coastalwedding 3
PUBLISHER & EDITOR Patrice Edwards
ART & DESIGN Ward J. Austin
PRODUCTION MANAGER Camisa Composti
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Camisa Composti & Cathe Race
MEDIA CONSULTANTS
Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine & Camisa Composti
Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive Aptos, CA 95003 Phone: 831.688.7549 Fax: 831.688.7551 sales@coastalwedding.com CoastalWedding.com
To advertise in Coastal Wedding Magazine please call (831) 688-7549 Coastal Wedding is a publication of Times Publishing Group, Inc., located at 9601 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA 95003. Entire contents ©2022 by Patrice Edwards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without publisher’s written permission.
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Contents BEFORE THE WEDDING 8 ... Wedding Destinations 10 ... A Whole Level of Gorgeousness 12 ... Countdown to the Big Day 14 ... Children in Your Wedding? 16 ... Choosing your Wedding Photographer
DURING THE WEDDING 19 ... Food Stations 20 ... Ten Most Popular First Dance Songs 22 ... Making a Meaningful Wedding Toast 24 ... Wedding Cake Trends 2022/2023 26 ... Maid of Honor Duties 28 ... Planning Tips to Make Your Outdoor Wedding Perfect 30 ... Central Coast Wedding Venues 32 ... Live Streaming Your Wedding 34 ... Bridal Trends 36 ... Bridesmaid Trends 38 ... Groomsmen Trends
AFTER THE WEDDING 40 ... Bridal Gifts and Services 42 ... Wedding Venue Directory 44 ... Honeymoon Road Trip 46 ... After Party
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Wedding BRIDESMAID AND GROOMSMEN BRUNCH The day of the rehearsal dinner, the bride and her bridesmaids, and the and groom and his groomsmen, attend a brunch mid-morning. Traditionally, the wedding party hosted these celebrations, but it can also be hosted by the couples’ parents. WELCOME PARTY For a destination wedding or a weekend-long celebration, kicking off the weekend’s festivities can include a welcome party. This is typically set up as a cocktail party that all wedding guests are invited to attend. The welcome party can be pre or post the rehearsal and the dinner. REHEARSAL DINNER Traditionally hosted by the groom’s parents’ rehearsal dinner invitations may only include the wedding party and immediate family. This event provides a great opportunity for visiting with family sharing memories and enjoying the excitement and anticipation of the wedding. PRE-WEDDING CEREMONY AND RECEPTION Prior to the ceremony decide where the Bridesmaids and Groomsmen will get ready and meet to discuss the day’s events. Bride and Bridesmaids will be doing hair and makeup while sipping on champagne and hor d’oeuvres like Charcuterie boards or finger foods.
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DESTINATION TIMELINE AND CELEBRATION IDEAS
CEREMONY & RECEPTION In some cases, the ceremony is limited to immediate family by choice or venue capacity. Usually, the wedding invitations will indicate if its reception only or if it is extended to all guests for the ceremony and reception. AFTER-PARTY With so many venues closing early due to restrictions, after parties are a popular event to continue the celebration. Hosted by the bride and groom or the wedding party, this post-reception is usually for the younger crowd of friends. MORNING AFTER BRUNCH Especially popular for today’s weddings is the morning after brunch. This offers family to say goodbye after a weekend of celebration. Usually set up as buffet-style the guests can come and go as they please. This event is informal as many family members will be traveling home that same day.
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A Whole
NEW LEVEL OF GORGEOUSNESS
You look beautiful every day (duh!)…but your wedding day? the body’s natural process. This process happens so gradually that patients don’t even notice a difference in their day-to-day That’s on a whole new level of gorgeousness. life. Coolsculpting can also be used on the chin, underarms, On the most important day of your life, looking and feeling upper arms, back, thighs, hips, and buttocks. fabulous is an absolute necessity. There are people to see, pictures to take, and of course it’s the first day your person will Laser hair removal is a non-invasive technique that uses highly be able to call you his wife. It’s more than just looking great; concentrated light to penetrate hair follicles. The laser light is it’s feeling great at those special moments that really mat- absorbed by the pigment in the hair shaft in the follicle-generating heat which damages the follicle to inhibit future hair ter. So here’s a list of some helpful ways to get to that place! growth. Therefore, plucking hair before treatment reduces the CoolSculpting® is a completely non-invasive and non-surgical fat reduction treatment. It doesn’t involve any sedation, anesthesia, incisions, or discomfort. There is no downtime, and the majority of patients don’t feel anything beyond a cooling sensation during treatment. CoolSculpting® uses cryolipolysis, which is a technical way to say fat-freezing. When fat cells freeze, they die and are then naturally eliminated through
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efficacy of the laser treatment as the target is absent. Because laser hair removal only affects actively growing hair follicles, it may take several laser hair removal treatments to provide significant hair reduction. Additionally, while laser hair removal effectively slows hair growth, it doesn’t guarantee permanent hair removal. Periodic maintenance treatments may be needed. Dermabrasion and dermaplaning help to “refinish” the skin’s top layers through a method of controlled surgical scraping. The treatments soften the sharp edges of surface irregularities, giving the skin a smoother appearance. Dermabrasion coast alwed d ing . com
is most often used to improve the look of facial skin left scarred by accidents or previous surgery, or to smooth out fine facial wrinkles. It’s also sometimes used to remove the pre-cancerous growths called keratoses. Dermaplaning is also commonly used to treat deep acne scars. Both dermabrasion and dermaplaning can be performed on small areas of skin or on the entire face. The cosmetic form of botulinum toxin, sometimes referred to as “Botox”, is a popular injectable that temporarily reduces or eliminates facial fine lines and wrinkles. The most commonly treated areas are frown lines, forehead creases, and crow’s feet near the eyes. Botulinum toxin is a purified substance that’s derived from bacteria. Injections of botulinum toxin block the nerve signals to the muscle in which it was injected. Without a signal, the muscle is not able to contract. The result is diminished unwanted facial wrinkles or appearance. Commonly known types of botulinum toxin type A injections include Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® and Jeuveau®. Laser skin resurfacing, also known as a laser peel, laser vaporization, and lasabrasion, can reduce facial wrinkles, scars, and blemishes. Newer laser technologies allow a new level of control in laser surfacing, permitting extreme precision, especially in delicate areas. Your provider uses the laser to send short, concentrated pulsating beams of light at irregular skin. This removes unwanted, damaged skin in a very precise manner one layer at a time. Laser skin resurfacing’s targeted approach means there are fewer problems with hypopigmentation, or a lightening of skin, for procedures such as laser acne scar removal. coasta l w eddi n g .com
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Weddings take time to organize. For most of us it’s the most time consuming and complex event we will ever attempt. Here is a comprehensive list of activities and the time lines necessary to have a successful and memorable wedding. The two of you are entering into a lifetime partnership so don’t hesitate to share these responsibilities with your future spouse.
COUNT DOWN TO THE 10-12 Months Before (as soon as you get engaged) ♥ Announce your engagement ♥ Arrange a meeting with both sides of the family ♥ Decide on a wedding date ♥ Discuss your budget with everyone involved in the wedding ♥ If using a wedding planner ask for recommendations and start the interview process ♥ Look for reception sites ♥ S hop for your wedding gown
Big Day
7-9 Months Before
5-7 Months Before
2-4 Months Before
♥ Choose a wedding party
♥ Order or make your wedding invitations
♥ Send out RSVP invitations
♥ Hire your limousine driver or other transportation
♥ Arrange your rehearsal dinner
♥ Hire your hair stylist
♥ Get fitted for tuxedos
♥ Get your bridal registry started ♥ Order your wedding gown ♥ Select what type of food you are having and choose a catering service ♥ Shop for bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen tuxedos ♥ Hire a photographer and videographer ♥ Choose your florist ♥ Book your DJ or Band
♥ Compile a guest list ♥ S tart planning your honeymoon destination ♥ Order your rings
♥ Meet with DJ or Band to discuss ceremony and reception music ♥ Order bridesmaid gifts and groomsmen gifts ♥ Order your wedding cake ♥ O rder your wedding favors and place card holders
♥ Shop for your cake ♥ Shop for wedding rings
♥ Book a venue ♥ Hire an Officiant
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YOU SAID
Yes!
SO WHAT’S NEXT?
5-8 Weeks Before
2-4 Weeks Before
1 Day Before
On that special day
♥ D ecide on your makeup and do a quick check wearing your headpiece
♥ C onfirm all the details with your DJ, florist, caterer and any other service you’re booking
♥ H ave the planner reconfirm details such as transport arrangements, flowers, music, cake delivery, photography, etc.
♥ B efore you leave the house, take time to thank your mother and father, bridesmaids and other attendants for all their help and support and give each of them a gift
♥ Make any alterations to your wedding dress ♥ C all the clerk’s office to find out the requirements for your marriage-license ♥ Critical insurance information that might need changing
♥ D ecide on the seating arrangements ♥ G ive your caterer a final count of your wedding guests
♥ Try to get an early night ♥ T ake a deep breath you’re almost there!
♥ R elax and have fun on your big day!
♥ Pack for your honeymoon ♥ Assign simple tasks such as transporting all reception and ceremony items ♥ Write a nice toast
After the Honeymoon ♥ Send out your thank-you notes and
include a reference to the gift.
♥ For the caterers, entertainers, florists,
etc. that gave good service, write them a thank you letter praising their professionalism.
♥ Finally, begin your married life!
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Children IN YOUR WEDDING?
Your wedding is one your biggest days ever. Including children is always a joy for the bridal party and attendees. Children can participate in the ceremony or if not, they can be included in the wedding in other ways. Most children love having a special job and will be delighted to be included, just make sure the job is appropriate for their age. Including small children in your wedding can sometimes be a challenge. The good news is there are ways to work it so there is no drama during the ceremony. It’s especially important that if small kids are going to be part of the bridal party, that they have a practice walking down the aisle in front of people. With all that practice, even the most outgoing children can suddenly become shy when put on the spot. Having an older sibling or groups of kids can make the walk down the aisle easier for a younger child. Decorate a wagon wedding style and ask one of the older kids pull the younger one. The younger child will love it and won’t even notice that people are fawning over how cute he or she is! Don’t get flustered if one of the little ones gets stage fright. Small children can’t be expected to perform on cue! It might be wise to seat their parents or grandparents at the end of an aisle in case they are needed to give encouragement or make a quick exit. If you want children involved in your wedding but not the ceremony, there are other jobs to help them feel included. Handing out the wedding program as guests arrive before the ceremony is very helpful and anyone over the age of 8 can handle that. If your dog is a big part of your family and you 14 coastalwedding | 2022
want him or her to take part, have a child walk the pet down the aisle. If you are going to invite children to the reception, be sure there are options for them. A bored and unhappy child can make for lots of drama! Make sure there are some kid-friendly food options on the menu. Food they like will make them happier and we want happy children! Often kids are seated at their parent’s tables. To be honest, it is not a lot of fun for them. If you can, seat children at their own kid’s wedding table. Provide fun favors for the kids or age appropriate goodie bags filled with sweets, small games, coloring books and crayons. Cover the kids’ table with kraft paper and let them draw on the tablecloth! Make sure teens attending the wedding also have their own table, if there are only one or two, seat them at the table where their parents are sitting. You can also give kids special jobs at the wedding reception too, like making sure everyone has signed the guest book, handing out favors or slices of cake. Kids at weddings can make your day even more enjoyable as long as you do the homework and provide them with plenty of activity and support if they need it.
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TRAITS TO LOOK FOR When Choosing Your Wedding Photographer
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❶
❸
❷
❹
A portfolio you love. Your venue may have a list of “preferred professionals” to choose from, but don’t feel obligated to stick with their list. Feel free to explore your options, and browse local guides and websites for the ones that have strong portfolios that speak to you. As you look, pay attention to mood, style and facial expressions. Skilled and experienced photographers should have a strong and varied wedding day collection. They help you think through the day. A good listener who takes a genuine interest in your plans - and makes sure you feel elated with their work - is always a good sign. Things like venue, lighting, time of day, the number of people you want to capture, number of settings and the itinerary are just a few factors they need to consider to plan and organize the shoot. If you’re not sure about something, ask their opinion. A professional will give you an honest assessment along with lots of suggestions so you enjoy your special day and capture those priceless images.
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@homebyzinnias
Something just clicks. And it’s not just the shutter. Bad puns aside, keep in mind you’re going to be spending the day with your photographer. In fact, you could very well be spending more time with the photographer than anyone else - even with your beloved. Don’t skip the in-person, face-to-face meeting when planning your special day. You want to be sure this is someone who makes you both feel open and relaxed, so trust your gut feeling.
They’re the complete package. A professional will complete the time-consuming (and sometimes overwhelming) task of sorting through hundreds of shots for you and put their skills to work in editing the images. What you should get is a collection of hand-picked images, all perfectly edited, cropped and toned, so they capture the best moments and emotions of the day. The one bearing the camera has a great responsibility: They are recording the first pages of history for your new family. To make sure you find the one that has the experience and the flair the day calls for, a professional photographer is always the right call. Visit: FindAPhotographer.com (BPT)
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Food
DINNER
STATIONS
Deciding the menu for your upcoming wedding reception can be a daunting experience. Beef? Chicken? What about vegetarian or vegan? Gluten free? What you really want is a menu that reflects your personality and can also accommodate every guest’s favorites. Couples looking for a simpler way to wine and dine their guests should consider a variety of food bars – it’s the perfect way to offer fine dining while giving everyone a choice.
BEVERAGES
CHAMPAGNE Champagne is great by itself, but mix in fresh fruit or even popsicles and it takes on a whole new flavor! BLOODY MARY Celery, pickles, horseradish, olives, jalapenos, hot sauce, buffalo wings, sliders, cilantro, bacon, peppers… the sides are endless! BEER Breweries are everywhere these days. Check with local craft brewers to see if they cater weddings. Or buy kegs from a few of your favorites and serve flights to your guests. MARGARITA Let them choose their flavor, salt or no salt, and garnish. Add tequila shot supplies for a real good time. HOT CHOCOLATE Warm up your friends and family with white, milk, and dark chocolate varieties. Garnish with peppermint sticks, marshmallows, and whipped cream! COFFEE Provide sweeteners, cream, mocha powder, and cinnamon. For a kick don’t forget the Irish Cream, Whiskey, and Kahlua!
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CHARCUTERIE Lots of meat. Prime rib, chicken, pork roast, lamb, etc. Add fixings such as horseradish, applesauce, chutney, mint jelly, and you have an elegant meat bar for your carnivorous guests! BBQ If your reception is going to take place outside it is almost mandatory that you include a barbecue station. Someone can be in charge and barbecue sausages, ribs, veggies, certain fruits, there are all kinds of barbecue friendly foods! And the sauces…everything works! PASTA Put out a variety of pastas, tureens of tasty sauces, veggies, meats, and shredded cheese. Let your guests combine their favorites and create a personalized dinner. You can even put out a big pan of mac and cheese! SEAFOOD Oysters are always a favorite. Some love them plain, and some need lemon, hot sauce, or horseradish. For non-oyster lovers put out cold shrimp and salmon. Make sure and include the goodies – cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, and a yummy dill sauce.
DESSERT
PIE Cherry, blueberry, apple, pecan, pumpkin…everyone loves pie! Serve this all-American dessert with a giant bowl of whipped cream. CHEESECAKE Fruit, chocolate, peanut butter…there are so many sweet ways to dress up your cheesecake. Create bite size cheesecakes and let guests choose their topping. ICE CREAM Everyone loves ice cream—set up several flavors and toppings and watch the scoops pile up with goodies! CHOCOLATE FOUNTAIN Pretty to look at and everything goes with chocolate! Fruit, shortbread, pretzels, the list goes on and on! These are just some of the ideas you can use at a wedding reception which will provide an unforgettable experience for your guests!
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MOST POPULAR
First Dance Songs
Regardless of what song you choose for your first dance, it’s going to be a dance to remember!
The first dance is a much-anticipated event at your wedding, it’s a special time for the newlywed couple as they’ve pre-selected a song to dance to while everyone else watches. The first dance can take place after the couples grand entrance to their reception or after the first course of the meal has been served. Sometimes a song is chosen because it has meaning to the couple and other times its’ just a popular first dance song ... which leads me into the top 10 first dance songs for 2022 ➨ 2022 20 coastalwedding | 2022
coastalwed coast alwed d ing . com
❶
Niall Horan “Black & White”
❷
Be Prepared for your First Dance
Ed Sheeran “Perfect”
❸
Calum Scott & Leona Lewis “You are the Reason”
❹
John Legend “Conversations”
❺
Taylor Swift “Lover”
❻
Etta James “At Last”
❼
Dan & Shay “Speechless”
❽
Your wedding will be one of the biggest days of your life. Make it more memorable with your own choreographed dance. Never danced before? Don’t worry. You can learn quickly and easily with one of the Palomar Ballroom’s qualified instructors.
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Three or Five Lesson Wedding Specials Available • Packages can be purchased online, please use code PBRJ1 at checkout for 10% off • Choreography for your first dance • Suggested song titles • Expert instruction
Ariana Grande & Justin Beiber “Stuck with You” Ledisi “Anything for You”
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Elvis Presley “Can't Help Falling in Love” coasta l w eddi n g .com
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Making A MEANINGFUL WEDDING TOAST
If someone close to you is getting married, you’re probably going to want to make a toast at their wedding to demonstrate how happy you are for them. But if you’re not a polished public speaker and your tongue gets tied and palms get sweaty just thinking about it, you might be looking for some guidance. While what you say on their special day is up to you, there are some common rules as to how it’s said. Whether it’s you, someone in your bridal party, or a family member making a toast at the wedding, here are a few hints to make it less stressful and more meaningful: You can offer a traditional wedding toast or give an original toast. If you choose to give an original toast, prepare it ahead of time. Practice your toast; if you’re afraid you’ll blank out when the time comes, put your thoughts on note cards. Humor is good, but don’t make inside or off-color jokes during your toast. The toast should be short, sweet, and personal. Make sure everyone’s glass is full before starting your toast. 22 coastalwedding | 2022
• Go through all the motions. Imagine where the audience is sitting, when rehearsing make gestures and eye contact in that direction of the guests. • Insert strategic pauses to add emphasis. Doing so will also help prevent you from rushing through the speech. • Keep your toast to around two minutes. If you find yourself talking quickly (which is likely if you’re nervous) make a conscious effort to slow down.
REHEARSAL DINNER: Starts with Mother and or Father of the Groom Additional speeches can be Groomsmen or Bridesmaids Close friends and family members ON THE WEDDING DAY TOASTS IS AS FOLLOWS: Welcome Speech, is usually the father of the bride. Maid of Honor carries on about how great the bride is – Best Man usually speaks towards the end of dinner about the groom and his bride – Newly Weds toast grab that mic and thank your parents. End the toast on a positive note. Include a formal indication to inform them of the ending of the toast and what to say next. For example: “Let us now toast the to a life of love and happiness for Vienna and Jake. To Vienna and Jake!” As you say this, wave your glass to all, then tip it towards the person you are toasting to. Then clink your glass gently with those around you and sip your drink! coast alwed d ing . com
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CAKE TRENDS 2022/2023 WHEN IS YOUR WEDDING? The date and location of your wedding is crucial when choosing the cake. For example, if you plan on having your wedding in the summer at a hot location, things like mousse, or even ice cream cake might be out of the question Ask your baker what types of cake are in “season”. HOW BIG WILL THE CAKE BE? Wedding cakes can come in all shapes and sizes. Traditional cakes which have several tiers are normally a great choice, and one your guests will remember. Depending on how many guests you have your options are limitless, for different flavors and fillings.
The ceremonial cutting of the cake is one of the memorable parts of the wedding. Over time many things have changed with weddings, but one thing that stays the same, there is always a beautiful cake that reflects the theme or vibe of the couple. The wedding cake is a big part of the wedding, and something ‘everyone” remembers. So, when deciding on which cake is right for your perfect day, there are many factors to take into consideration. You may want to start shopping for your baker around 6 months prior to your big day!
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WHAT KIND OF ICING? Traditionally icing has been white or a light cream color. However today, many are matching their icing color with the overall theme of the wedding. The icing can be a simple sugar and flour recipe, or even a rich fondant icing. Go to our Pinterest page for great wedding cake ideas. WEDDING CAKES SHAPES The most popular are round cakes are circle-shaped and come in one or more tiers, oval wedding cakes are elliptical-shaped, as the name implies. Square wedding cakes are box-shaped and usually come in multiple tiers. There are also Sheet cakes, rectangular cakes and mixed shapes.
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DECORATIONS Decorating a cake is only limited by your imagination. Some couples design the cake around the décor or theme of the wedding. While others give the cake a unique look, with crazy and outrageous decorations which define who they are. Most depend on what you need, bakers decorate cakes with the look of lace, embroidery appliqué or edible pearls with fresh flowers or Olive leaves adorning each layer. You can also have fun with theme cakes from beach, luau, or your favorite hobby such as cycling, mountain climbing water sports, gardening and more. Your baker can use fresh flowers on a Redwood base or carefully crafted designs out of icing. Don’t forget the cake topper! Your wedding cake should be as individual as you. The worst thing you can do when choosing a cake is just “settling.” Shop around a bit, decided on the cake, style and decorations, and find a baker who is willing to work with you to achieve your wedding cake of your dreams. Make it a reflection of the two of you!
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Maid OF HONOR DUTIES
Being a maid of honor for someone is a huge deal and comes with some hefty wedding day duties. As a maid of honor you are going to have plenty of responsibilities leading up to the wedding, but the wedding day may be the biggest of them all. You want the bride’s big day to go as smoothly as possible, which is where you will come in hand immensely. Pre-ceremony you’ll be getting dressed with the bridal party and bride. You’re going to play a big role in getting the bride dressed and making sure everyone else looks perfect as well. Sometimes before the bride and groom see each other on their wedding day, they want to exchange romantic notes or a memorable gift. The maid of honor will do this along with the best man. Keeping everyone on track and keeping track of everyone may seem like an impossible task, but it’s something you will need to do. If the couple has a wedding planner, request an itinerary for the day so you can familiarize yourself with it. You will also be acting as the point person; meaning anyone who asks for assistance or instructions you’re going to be able to help. Let’s not forget one of the most important tasks of the MOH, is being on drunk patrol. Most of the time the bride and her bridesmaids will want to enjoy a glass of bubbly while getting ready, but it’s your duty to keep the bride and bridesmaids to a two-glass maximum.
The best thing you can bring for the bride on the day of the wedding is a great attitude. Be ready to handle anything that comes your way. You’re prepared to share laughs, bust a few dance moves, shed some tears and enjoy a few glasses of champagne together, and help make memories that will last a lifetime.
You can never be over prepared on the day of the wedding. Bringing an emergency kit for the bride is an excellent idea. Some items to include can be ibuprofen, fashion tape, band aids, safety pins, extra hair ties, snacks, mints/ gum, mini pack of tissues etc. Conveniently, all of these items can fit into a small clutch or handbag so no one will know it’s actually an emergency kit. As much as we try and prevent emergencies and mishaps from happening, they do and being prepared is the way go! 26 coastalwedding | 2022
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ESSENTIAL PLANNING TIPS TO MAKE YOUR OUTDOOR WEDDING
t c e f r e p ♥♥♥
When the pieces fall into place, planning and hosting an outdoor wedding is a beautiful way to begin your lives together.
There’s so much to love about an outdoor wedding. Whether it’s set on the beach, at a winery or even in the backyard of a family member, pledging your eternal commitment to your partner in beautiful natural surroundings makes the day extra memorable. If you’re thinking of holding the big day in the great outdoors, you’re in good company. Over the past decade, outdoor ceremonies are on the rise: 52 percent of couples tied the knot in an outdoor ceremony in 2018. Couples vision of their dream wedding can be dramatically different. Some opt for churches, hotels and banquet halls as settings for the ceremony receptions and others opting for less conventional sites, such as rooftop event spaces, historic homes, wineries and parks. Unlike the traditional venues, an outdoor ceremony and reception has its own set of considerations when it comes to planning. These practical tips will get you started in building the outdoor wedding of your dreams.
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SKETCH OUT THE ITINERARY EARLY: Before you sign the contract with your chosen venue, discuss in detail your vision with the coordinator, and before you leave, be perfectly clear on what’s permissible and what’s off-limits. If you’re envisioning dancing the night away under the stars, you don’t want to find out three weeks before the big day that the venue has restrictions on equipment and noise. Before you sign any contract, have your itinerary ready and discuss it from start to finish.
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PLAN YOUR EQUIPMENT NEEDS: One thing to know about holding a wedding in a less conventional spot is venues can vary wildly on what they can provide for you in terms of supplies and equipment. Take time to walk through the entire event so you’re clear on what you may need to supply yourself. Even if a venue lacks essentials
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like power outlets and bathroom stalls, don’t give up. There are great solutions out there to help you create the space to a beautiful venue. Your local rental store, for example, is an essential stop for anyone planning a wedding. In addition to all the wedding gear you could need, from decorations to seating, they also have lots of other equipment and ideas to help you plan the perfect outdoor event.
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ALWAYS HAVE A PLAN B: It’s impossible to predict what the weather will bring for an outdoor wedding, which can add uncertainty. But you can reduce the stress by planning for the worst conditions. Is hot and humid weather a possibility? How about a thunderstorm? A deposit on a rented air-conditioned tent and a set of misting fans can be a smart move. You may not end up needing these, but your peace of mind will be worth every penny.
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SET UP A KIDS’ STATION: Many outdoor reception spaces have a built-in advantage for hosting pint-sized guests: There’s more space for them to stretch their legs and be kids without disrupting other guests. Create a kid-friendly corner featuring games, activities or even a rented inflatable bounce house that lets kids be active and let off some steam. They’ll be thrilled (and so will their parents).
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ENCOURAGE EXPLORATION: If the big event is held in a public place, help your guests fully appreciate the experience. Does the park have a hiking path that leads to a beautiful waterfall? Have maps printed and leave out a stack for those who decide to take a little break. Are you getting married in a beautiful garden at a historic mansion? Ask the venue if you can take extra brochures to offer the guests, or set aside time for special guided tours. This is a sure way to show consideration for your guests and make the day memorable. Then the pieces fall into place, planning and hosting an outdoor wedding is a beautiful way to begin your lives together. coasta l w eddi n g .com
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Central Coast As winter turns to spring, couples will be joined together in marriage throughout the Central Coast. Some are locals, while others are out-of-towners attracted by the region’s natural splendor and coastal charm. The Central Coast’s unique reputation for diversity, even eccentricity, is proving to be the magnet that is drawing romantics from all walks of life. While many brides want the wedding nuptials they’ve carried with them since childhood, their dream may be radically different from conventional ceremonies of the past. No problem. This community can accommodate the most eclectic visions of wedding splendor. Many receptions and weddings are still held in traditional spots such as country clubs and reception halls, but an adventurous percent choose to celebrate in the towering redwoods or atop a cliff, ocean view or beach front all are waiting to host your big day. The growing base of wedding consultants and companies that cater to weddings demonstrates the Central Coast’s ability to compete with any big city when it comes to orchestrating a memorable event.
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Wedding service providers of all sorts are seeing their businesses grow. Many brides and grooms are from Silicon Valley and the Bay Area and are choosing to travel to this area to take advantage of the natural beauty and unique sites. The Central Coast is in demand because of its natural beauty and the experience the community offers is friendly and accommodating. Brides and grooms are flocking to the Central Coast for the weather. A large majority of weddings and receptions in the area are held outdoors, an element that can also mean less expensive ceremonies. Popular options are spacious backyards in local homes, which can easily host a smaller guest list, while local country clubs, resorts and hotels are also in high demand. This area abounds with creative solutions guaranteed to make it a day to remember. These types of alternatives are important when one considers the growing number of couples who don’t have lavish sums set aside for their wedding, nor the fortu-
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Wedding Venues nate option of doting parents who can foot the bill. Some people may still be laboring under the misconception that the amount of money spent is directly proportionate to how much you love each other. That fallacy needs to be put to rest. Your wedding is a time to honor the union of a loving couple as you embark on a new life together. Your wedding is what you make it. A Central Coast wedding can be many things. It can be simple affair with family and friends celebrating the union amidst the natural splendor of a towering redwood forest, or a barefoot bacchanal on the sands of a pristine beach. Above all, it is a celebration of the coastal beauty that makes this region unique, and a celebration of the love that has brought you together in marriage.
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Live Streaming Your Wedding FOR ALL TO ENJOY Can’t attend the wedding you’ve waited so long for? Is the travel time to far or not up to attending? Here’s the next best thing….Live Streaming your wedding can be as simple as setting up a tripod for your phone! Facebook live is a great host for all your friends and family. Here are a few steps to Live Streaming your wedding! Create a Facebook group for Guests who will attend online. Facebook Live seems to be the easiest platform to broadcast your wedding on. They’ve done a great job at making it seamless to live streaming from your phone. With a group, you can select to go Live for only your wedding group. Create a schedule of events that you will broadcast. Stream your whole wedding instead of just the ceremony. The best part about live-streaming is the guests that can’t attend will be able to really enjoy the day and not wonder what it was like...Participants can really feel a part of the celebration. 32 coastalwedding | 2022
Designate a person to manage the live stream. You will want someone who can setup and manage the live stream, perhaps you can coordinate this with your wedding photographer/videographer. Setup tripod and camera mount, when doing this try and pick a discreet location yet close to your ceremony. When doing setup you’re going to want to ensure your venue has adequate WiFi and cellular service. Allowing participants to comment is a great way for them to interact during the ceremony and reception. At some point you may want to print your comments out and save them in an album. Here are a few ways you can live stream your wedding… Zoom Facebook Live Instagram Live Google Meet
All platforms provide detailed instructions.
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WEDDING FASHIONS COLORS & TRENDS
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Bridal Trends 34 coastalwedding | 2022
Morilee Madeline Gardner
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Bridesmaid Trends
Morilee Madeline Gardner
wedding Coastal
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Groomsmen Trends 38 coastalwedding | 2022
SuitShop.com
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Bridal Gifts ANNIE GLASS
Handcrafted in America. Sustainably designed and inspired by nature from California’s Monterey Bay to towering redwoods, Annie Glass creates glass dinnerware and decor meant to last a lifetime. Annie Glass is produced by a talented team of artisans and master crafts people. Visit us to choose your perfect wedding gift. 310 Harvest Dr., Watsonville 831.761.2041 www.annieglass.com
PALOMAR BALLROOM
The Palomar Ballroom is a full-service ballroom dance studio with two locations, one in downtown Santa Cruz and the other in the heart of Scotts Valley. We provide the highest quality dance instruction to our students in a fun, friendly, professional, and supportive environment. Salsa, Swing, Ballroom, Latin, Nightclub and more – we teach it all. Whatever style of dance you want to have as your first dance at your wedding, we will make sure you are the best! 1344 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz • 831.426.1221 4652 Scotts Valley Drive #203, Scotts Valley • 831.430.9705
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MARK AREIAS JEWELERS
At Mark Areias Jewelers, our business is built on quality and value. Marl Areias Jewelers has been offering our customers with a unique and personal buying experience for more than 30 years and we take pride in the fact that most of our inventory is custom designed and created in-store. Our genuine desire is getting to know our customers and being able to turn your idea into a unique creation that will live on through generations. 7552 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA 95003 831.688.2799 www.areiasjewelers.com
SUPER SILVER
Super Silver has been Santa Cruz’s favorite shop for stunning jewelry since 1995. We have multiple locations, and an ever-expanding selection of .925 silver. Come visit and check out our large variety of rare stones. We also carry rings, chains, charms, earrings, bracelets and more, for all your wedding needs! www.supersilver.com • Downtown Santa Cruz 831.460.9696 • Capitola Mall 831.477.1932 • Capitola Village 831.462.9696 • Old Town Sacramento 916.443.2801
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and Services ZINNIA'S GIFTS
REJUVENATE
Zinnia’s Gift Boutique offers an assortment of delightful items and gifts for the perfect wedding gift. Zinnia’s continues to provide unique gift finding, including local artisan selections, and a warm and inviting place to visit and shop. From candles to decorative tableware we are your one stop wedding gift shop. Come and check out Nora Fleming, La Cadeaux, Michel Designs, and much more! And don’t forget to visit our new Home Store! 219-C Mt. Hermon Rd, Scotts Valley 831.430.9466 www.zinniasgiftboutique.com
We are given just one body for this life. It is our “Vessel” and you are its Captain. Over the course of our journey, we can suffer damage from accidents or neglect. It’s easy to get lost or off course as you sail through the seas of life. Rejuvenate Medi-spa and Wellness provides a comfortable and relaxing environment where you can immerse yourself for a head to toe, stem to stern evaluation of your current state of health. REJUVENATE MEDI-SPA AND WELLNESS 304 Lincoln St., Santa Cruz 831.226.2108
AT HOME by ZINNIA'S
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Walk through our soulfully crafted space featuring decor and designs for kitchen, dining, living room and more. Each collection was carefully curated and created using best in class, mindfully made brands. Our team is committed to providing an imaginative oasis, where our customers can trust our design experts to inspire, educate and guide through our connected story. 262 Mt. Hermon Rd #102, Scotts Valley 831.201.4906 www.zinniasgiftboutique.com
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Start Planning Your Wedding Step By Step. Check out our free budget planner, guest list and check list, and engage with pros to help you plan your perfect Coastal Wedding. Explore the wedding vendors and venues on the Central Coast of California.
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Wedding Venue APTOS VILLAGE PARK
This is a 10.3 acre park tucked into old Aptos Village. There is a large lawn area and a lovely gazebo. The building (with a fireplace) and its adjoining patio, equipped with picnic tables, are available with a Center Reservation for weddings, reunions, and other such events. There is also an outside barbecue. 0-12 Month Lead-time, Room Capacity 200, Indoor/ Outdoor Facilities, Outside Catering Permitted, BYO Alcohol, Dance Floor Available, Handicap Accessible, No Insurance Required. Facility Rental Only. 100 Aptos Creek Road Aptos, CA 831.454.7938 reservations@scparks.com www.scparks.com
HIGHLANDS PARK
Highlands Park is one of Santa Cruz County’s most popular wedding facilities. The main house features hardwood floors, a large kitchen, and private lawn. It can accommodate groups of up to 200 persons (125 persons maximum on Saturdays April through mid-June, 200 persons on Saturdays mid-June through October, and 100 persons maximum daily in winter November through March). 0-12 Month Lead-time, Indoor/Outdoor Facilities, Outside Catering Permitted, BYO Alcohol, Dance Floor, Handicap Accessible, Limited, No Insurance Required. Facility Rental Only. 8500 Highway 9 Ben Lomond, CA 831.454.7938 • reservations@scparks.com www.scparks.com
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FOUR POINTS SHERATON
HECKER PASS WINERY & LA VIGNA EVENT CENTER
Surrounded by California’s natural landscapes, the Four Points Sheraton of Scotts Valley sets the scene for your romantic event! We feature several spaces to host a wedding, reception, or rehearsal dinner for that special day. Our restaurant is available for catering, beer, wine, and craft cocktails. Your guests will love the menu from our California infused cuisine at 5030 Restaurant and Lounge. Reserve a block of rooms for special events or corporate meetings for your guests. Call us today to reserve your wedding day! 5030 Scotts Valley Dr., Scotts Valley 831.458.1500 www.marriott.com
Imagine having your next special event in the most serene and setting nature has to offer. La Vigna Event Center, at Hecker Pass Winery, gives you the opportunity to gather family and friends in a breathtaking setting, complete with views of vineyards and rolling hills. We are an all-inclusive event center. Our per person rate ranges from $10 to $100 with a guest capacity of 220. We are handicap accessible. Family owned and operated. Please call Carlo at 408-930-6777 for a quote. 4605 Hecker Pass Hwy, Gilroy, CA 408.930.6777 heckerpasswineryandeventcenter.com
LONG BRANCH SALOON & FARMS
QUAIL HOLLOW RANCH
Long Branch Farms is where you want your western wedding to take place! Its chosen not just for the scenic backdrop of this unique property, it’s what you get to do when you get there. Come check out our western venue, BBQ area, and beautiful location in Half Moon Bay. Our dedicated staff can make magical moments happen! Price Per Person Varies, Seating for 300, Dance Floor, Indoor/ Outdoor Facilities, Outside Catering, Full Bar, Country Saloon, Barnyard Dancing, and more! Long Branch Saloon & Farms 321 Verde Road Half Moon Bay, CA 650.726.3117 • www.longbranchfarms.net
Quail Hollow Ranch offers a secluded, intimate and exclusive natural environment for your big day. After your ceremony under a majestic oak tree, your picture-perfect picnic reception will take place on the velvety green grass, dotted with charming rustic picnic tables and plenty of room for everyone to dance the night away! 0-12 Month Lead-time, Room Capacity 100, Indoor/ Outdoor Facilities, Outside Catering Permitted, BYO Alcohol, Handicap Accessible, No Insurance Required. Facility Rental Only. 800 Quail Hollow Road Felton, CA 831.454.7938 • reservations@scparks.com www.scparks.com
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Directory SHADOWBROOK
For 65 years Shadowbrook has been a favorite setting for weddings because of its romantic ambiance and magnificent setting on the banks of Soquel Creek in the village of Capitola-by-the-Sea. Shadowbrook will make your wedding rehearsal and/ or day even more memorable than you imagine! 2 Month Lead-time, Price Per Person $48.95$69.95, Room Capacity 10-100 Guests, Restaurant-wide Capacity 100-200 Guests, Indoor/ Outdoor Facilities, On Premise Catering, Full Bar, Venue Coordinator, Handicap Accessible, No Insurance Required. Great for Rehearsal Dinners too. 1750 Wharf Rd • Capitola 831.475.1222 (Stephanie Saunders) weddings@shadowbrook-capitola.com www.shadowbrook-capitola.com
WAVE STREET STUDIOS
Getting married or hosting your private event at Wave Street Studios is a joy that you and your guests will cherish forever. No decorating required amongst our timeless succulent gardens and beautiful architectural details! Dance until the wee hours and bring-your-own-anything you like! Our hand-built, eco-modern, multilevel oasis is 4000+ sq.ft. featuring studio space with sprung bamboo dance floor, two succulentsoaked brick patios, a natural pond, and magically heated concrete bench. All this, along with our high-ceilinged tearoom, historic bungalow, and private roof deck can be yours. 774 Wave Street, Monterey 831.655.2010 • wavestreet@gmail.com www.wavestreetstudios.com
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VALENCIA HALL
VENTURE RETREAT
Valencia Hall is a popular location for weddings, parties and meetings. Built by Frederick Hihn in the early 1880’s, these historic buildings allowed the community to gather for a variety of events. Following in this tradition, Santa Cruz County Parks offers this unique facility for your special event. 0-12 Month Lead-time, Room Capacity 80, Indoor Facility Only, Outside Catering Permitted, BYO Alcohol, Dance Floor, Handicap Accessible, No Insurance Required. Your reservation includes the use of the community hall and kitchen. 2555 Valencia Road, Aptos 831.454.7938 reservations@scparks.com www.scparks.com
Why limit yourself to just one day, when you can celebrate all weekend? With multiple ceremony and reception locations, and cozy rustic accommodations for your guests, Venture is the ideal place to say “I do” and make it a celebration to remember! We offer camping and indoor accommodations, as well as a commercial kitchen for your caterer, and full use of our pool, hot tub, and fire pit (firewood included)! We also offer Sunday afternoon weddings as well as budgetfriendly weekday weddings. Depending on your package and needs, you can use our tables, chairs, string lighting, wine barrels, and more. 201 Eden W Rd, Pescadero venture.pescadero@gmail.com
FELTON GUILD
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Felton Guild is one of Felton’s best kept secrets! Since 1994, we have been dedicated to helping make your special day flawless and beautiful. Nestled in the Heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains within walking distance to Henry Cowell State Park and just six miles from downtown Santa Cruz, Beach Boardwalk, and the Santa Cruz Wharf, Felton Guild fulfills all your needs for your wedding day. We have an onsite caterer who provides everything from set up to clean up. We are Handicap Accessible. Facility Rental Only. Felton Guild 5449 Highway 9, Felton 831.336.8093 www.feltonguildweddings.com contact@feltonguildweddings.com
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Start Planning Your Wedding Step By Step. Check out our free budget planner, guest list and check list, and engage with pros to help you plan your perfect Coastal Wedding. Explore the wedding vendors and venues on the Central Coast of California.
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Honeymoo
ROAD TR
you don't have the time or money for a lengthy honeymoon? Want to ensure your honeymoon is just the two of you and not a crowded resort or hotel? Get on Highway One (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) and start driving! What better way to spend time together than on a road trip! The stretch of Highway One between Santa Cruz and Big Sur is one of the most beautiful in the world. As you travel the first leg of your trip, enjoy the beautiful agricultural fields. Be proud that you are in one of the richest AG areas in our country. Lettuce, artichokes, berries, and many more vegetables and fruits are grown right here on the central coast. Hungry? Stop in Castroville, The Artichoke Capital of the World, and have some french fried artichokes. Monterey, California’s first Capitol, and immortalized in John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row, is a good first stop. Spend a night (or two) and visit Fisherman’s Wharf, taste test some Clam Chowder, and then sit down for some sumptuous seafood. Get up close and personal with all the sea creatures of at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Stroll Cannery Row, rich with history, and visit the many wine tasting rooms. Kayaking, whale watching, scuba diving, there are many activities to enjoy in the beautiful area. 2022 44 coastalwedding | 2022
Once you’ve gotten back on the road, stop and spend some time in beautiful Carmel. Home to the renowned 17-mile Drive and Pebble Beach golf course, Carmel is an art lover’s paradise. This tiny beach side community offers galleries specializing in paintings, photography, and metal and glass sculptures. Browse the downtown boutiques, dine in quaint bistros, and take a stroll on the magnificent beaches. Visit Roy’s at Spanish Bay for a cocktail at sunset when the Scottish Bagpiper comes strolling over the golf course. Big Sur is a definite destination on this trip. Endless miles of hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and activities like horseback riding, whale watching, and wine tasting abound. Spend some quality time in Big Sur. Why rush? Take a leisurely three or four days and enjoy the beauty of it all. If you’re adventurous, instead of a hotel try some camping. Or glamping as it’s called when you’re not really roughing it! There are several places that offer tree houses, yurts, even beds built into the trees that stretch out above the beach. Yearning for the city? Go north! Highway One curves up the California coast with some of the most beautiful views in the world. San Francisco is the prize at the end of the trip with all that it offers visitors. On the way up the coast, you can check out the kite boarders with their colorful sails dotting the sky. coastalwed coast alwed d ing . com
on
RIP!
Highway 1 Big Sur
Monterey Bay: Cannery Row & Whale Watching
Stop in Davenport for some breakfast then go across the highway to take in the ocean air and maybe spot a few whales! Up ahead is Pescadero. A hidden gem, all you do is take a right, drive for a mile or so and Pescadero is hidden among the mountains. Take a stroll down their main street, check out the local artisan shops, and stop in Duatre’s Tavern, a landmark that has been there since 1894. Half Moon Bay is definitely a two day stop. Golfing, horseback riding on the beach, kayaking, there is something to do for everyone. The ultimate romantic destination, Half Moon Bay is host to tons of wildlife, including dolphins, whales, and a variety of bird species. Spectacular sunsets, misty mornings, and many delicious restaurants and patio side views are just moments away. If the time is right, you can also catch surfers from around the world paddling out at Mavericks – one the most challenging big waves in the world, where it’s not uncommon to witness pros risking their lives to ride 50-foot waves.
Pacifica
Your last destination before the city is Pacifica. A six-mile stretch along the coast, Pacifica is well known regionally as a popular surfing destination. Surfers and families often visit Linda Mar Beach. Rockaway Beach is a scenic location and offers recreation, shopping, and dining. If fishing is your thing, visit Pacifica Pier and try for a striped bass or salmon. Pacifica is also a popular place to hike, with many trails that wind along the beaches and bluffs. Whether you go north or south, honeymooning on the coast means you will never run out of things to do and will always have the ocean at your feet. Enjoy! coasta l w eddi n g .com
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After Party Your reception was a blast; the music has come to an end… but why stop now? There are always partiers who refuse to let the good times come to a close, so an after-hours party should definitely be part of the plan. It isn’t just a way to prolong your wedding day, it’s another chance to spend time with your guests. There are several options to choose from for your post wedding party. Let’s just meet at a bar and everyone pay their own way is a good one but chancy. If the bar is crowded, you don’t want to end up wandering around town in your wedding dress and tuxedos looking for a place to settle. You can call ahead and reserve a room at a popular spot so they will be ready for you when you show up. Lots of places have private rooms, sometimes with pool tables, or even a DJ. You can have food and drink ready and waiting for your guests. Make sure and call ahead of time to reserve your spot. Some reception venues make it simple. They will set it all up in another room off the main room and all you and your guests have to do it walk there and continue the party. If you are in a hotel, a suite can also be a good location for your party. The hotel will have it all set up and ready for you when you arrive. Sometimes if the reception is in a venue that is do it yourself, such as a field or meadow, a backyard, or a county park, you can have the party come to you. Buy extra beverages to put out, call a food truck ahead of time to reserve, and you are all set! Most after parties are more casual than the reception, serve something different than the reception. Guests don’t want sushi when they had fish for dinner. One of the more common choices is a simple buffet with comfort food such as hamburgers, sliders, fries, etc. Choosing to do an open bar at an after party is your choice. It usually depends on the venue. Obviously, if it’s at a hotel or reception venue, an open bar is the norm. But if you’ve done the open bar for the reception, you can choose not 46 coastalwedding | 2022
to for the after party. You can also change the beverage choices at an after party. If you had a full open bar at the reception, you can switch it down to wine, beer, nonalcoholic beverages, and coffee for the after party. Deciding who to invite is up to you. You can invite the whole group, or if you have a select group of friends that you go out with regularly, you can go to a favorite lounge for your after party. If your wedding list was at 200 people you might want to pare it down for the after party and just invite close friends and family. By the time your reception is over, at least a few of your guests will probably have had a bit too much to drink. Transportation to the after-party should be one of your main concerns -- if the venue is not within walking distance, consider booking a shuttle to get guests around safely, or hire a few cabs to wait outside your reception space when it’s finished. Who’s paying? Chances are there will be many a guest offering to slap down their credit cards at the bar. Because the after-party is a relatively new wedding trend, there’s no set etiquette for who traditionally pays. The bride’s parents may consider it part of the reception and pay for the after-party, especially if it’s taking place in the same hotel or resort, since it can be easily added to the final bill. On the other hand, many couples choose to pay for the after-party themselves, regardless of who pays for the wedding, since the attendees will generally be the couple’s younger friends. If you’re uncertain on who’s planning on paying, consider offering to split the bill with your parents. After parties are a fun way to extend your special day. But if you have something early to do the next day, like a family brunch, or a flight to catch for your honeymoon, remember –Pace yourself! coast alwed d ing . com
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Find vendors and venues for your special day at coastalwedding.com T I M E S P U B L I S H I N G G R O U P, I N C .
W W W. T P G O N L I N E D A I LY. C O M
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831-688-7549
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