Celtic Harp music has been around since the 10th century and although it has had its rise and fall in mainstream popularity, it remains a top choice for weddings. The versatile harp can produce sounds as soft as angel’s wings for processionals, joyful tunes for recessionals and lively jigs for the reception. The music works for small intimate ceremonies as well as mega gatherings. Popular with brides and harp lovers everywhere since its debut in 2000, Haste to the Wedding by Ann Roos presents a a wonderful array of choices for your special day. The gifted harpist released the CD in 2005 and it comes beautifully packaged with a 48-page hardcover book that includes recipes, Celtic toasts, blessings and more. Makes a perfect wedding gift for yourself or a loved one. Click here to read more about the album and listen to sample tracks.
Author: Jane Green
Creating the perfect space for all stages of life wherever that may be. Humor and gratitude go a long way in making the best of every situation.
Show Stopper Takes the Cake
My choice for the winning cake at the PDX Bridal Show was this stunning white peacock design by Crave Bake Shop in Lake Oswego. Not only did this cake look amazing in color and detail it was completely GLUTEN FREE. If you are not already a fan of Crave, now there’s more reason than ever to celebrate their GF wonders … wedding cakes. Who knew? Priced right and with lots of scrumptious options, this is one bake shop you’ll definitely want to check out before making your cake choice. And if you’re not in the market for a wedding cake, head there anyway to enjoy their cookies, scones, cinnamon rolls, cream puffs and award winning cupcakes. ALL blissfully gluten free. Thanks, Crave!
Boudoir Special for Brides
Brides are often at a loss as to what to give their grooms for a wedding gift. Here’s a great idea from photographer, Amy Wilbanks. A custom portrait of you at your boudoir best. Seductive, coy, vintage … whatever rocks your world. Amy will capture you in your most alluring pose and then custom frame the masterpiece to create the perfect gift. Can’t wait for your wedding day? No worries. Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Note: Gift certificates make a great gift for your bridal party. Click here to visit Amy’s studio on Facebook and learn more about this special offer.
Brides For A Cause
I’ll be volunteering at Brides For A Cause this Saturday from 10 to 2pm at the Laurelhurst Club in SE PDX. The event is a wonderful way to snag a gorgeous gown at up to 75% off and benefit a great cause. 50% of proceeds goes to Wish Upon A Wedding, a national non-profit organization that provides weddings and vow renewals for individuals facing terminal illness and other serious life-altering situations. Admission is FREE. Click here for directions and details. Hope to see you there!
Was Your Proposal A Winner?
I’ve heard some great proposal stories over the years ranging from sentimental to outlandish. If you’re planning a wedding between now and March 2014, here’s your chance to share your story and win big. “The Proposal” contest is being sponsored by The Mark Spencer Hotel and the winning couple receives a Grand Prize package valued at over $4,000! This fabulous wedding reception package includes the Mark Spencer’s brand new Nortonia Ballroom space, catering by As Good As It Gets, decorating by Barclay Event Rentals and flowers from Botanica Floral Design. The winning proposal will be selected by a panel of judges and based on originality, creativity and the “wow” factor. Click here to read entry details. Winner will be announced April 12th … it might be you!
Portland Bridal Show This Weekend
If you are planning to walk down the aisle in the next few years, don’t miss the PDX Bridal Show this weekend at the Oregon Convention Center. Their fashion shows are always fun to watch and you’ll be able to check out hundreds of wedding vendors under one roof. Get the latest ideas on decor themes, bridal bouquets and gifts for your groom. Many vendors offer special discounts if you order on site. And don’t forget everyone’s favorite – food tasting. Some of the area’s best bakeries hand out cupcakes and caterers tempt you with appetizer and beverage samples. Yum! I’ll be there both days at the Fairgate Inn booth. Stop by and say hi! Click here for show details.
Holiday Wedding Vows by Jane Green
Marie and Taylor said “I Do” in the grand foyer of The Fairgate Inn on Thursday evening, surrounded by loved ones and holiday decor. After the heartfelt ceremony, guests adjourned to the ballroom to enjoy delicious appetizers and dinner. The white, black and red wedding colors were perfectly complimented by the inn’s lavish evergreen boughs, red amaryllis arrangements and thousands of twinkle lights. “Isn’t this a magical setting?” was a frequent comment by friends and family who attended the twilight wedding. Speaking of magic, the newlyweds flew to Disney World for their honeymoon and will live in Tigard upon returning next week. Congratulations and many years of joy together! How you say “I Do” does matter. Contact me to plan a wedding ceremony that reflects your personal style.
PDX Designer Creates Bridal Fashion
For a high taste of unique beauty, it’s hard to beat Sarah Seven. Her bridal and ready wear fashions make a statement that say original loud and clear. Visiting her flagship store in NE PDX is like stepping into a time capsule when fabric mattered and detail reigned supreme. Known for her vintage inspired designs, Sarah Seven offers one-of-a-kind gowns as well as select favorites in her permanent collection. And her short dress creations offer lots of options for bridesmaids (I’m drawn to Mrs. Black from the Fall 2012 collection). Viewing is by appointment only or you can see her international collection online at Sarah Seven.
Vintage Love
Whether you are choosing your wedding gown, bridesmaid dresses or a wow outfit for the honeymoon, vintage is always in style. Fun, eco friendly and kind to the budget, vintage dresses offer plenty of eye and purse appeal. And sizing is usually generous which doesn’t hurt either. Shop your local resale and consignment stores for vintage finds or look online for some great deals. Etsy has a vintage category showcasing items from jewelry to gowns. Another favorite is Light in the box which offers vintage inspired dresses at bargain prices.
If you want to kick it up a notch, check out Rent the runway. Select your size, fabric color and the date of your event and shop from hundreds of celebrity designer fashions. I love that you can view the gowns from all angles AND they ship a backup size just in case. You have to provide your email address to get on the site but it’s worth it just to see the possibilities. A recent offering, for example, a Roaring 20’s blush silk gown by Narciso Rodriguez which retails for $2300 but rents for $300. Note: Sizes tend to be limited to smaller gals. LOTS of great jewelry and accessory options. Getting ready for the big day? How you say “I DO” does matter. Contact Jane Green for your perfect ceremony.
Recycle Wedding Deals
Find some great buys for your wedding day at Ruffled blog’s Recycle Your Wedding page. 
Deals like this Wtoo Vesper gown for $250 obo are posted by brides and stylists from across the country. You contact them directly and pay via PayPal. Browse thru the photo gallery for everything from dresses to decor items. 15 categories and hundreds of items. Love that Ruffled has a user friendly, no charge listing process making it easier to sell your stuff after the big day. They provide the vehicle and you get the money. Talk about a win-win!
Big day coming up? Contact Jane Green, Licensed Officiant, for customized and creative ceremony ideas.
A FESTIVE HEART 