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Wedding Reception, weddings

Harvest Moon Wedding at the Fairgate

Last Sunday at the Fairgate Inn, Carolyn and Craig exchanged vows as the Harvest Moon was ready to rise. Once a year, the moon rises at the same time that the sun sets creating continual illumination. A wonderful image for starting a new life together. The beautiful garden setting in Camas, WA was the perfect location to make the magic happen. Guests were treated to a soft summer evening under the canopy. Following the ceremony, everyone enjoyed scrumptious food, a candy bar featuring family favorites and a decadent cake (hand delivered by the groom). Congratulations to the new Mr. & Mrs. Coleman and many years of moon glow and magic ahead!

Bridal Gowns, Helpful Hints

Bridal Gown Deals

Searching for a bridal gown? Mindful of your budget? Check out the super deal on NEW gowns at the Discovery Shop in Vancouver, WA. Over 100 gowns were donated to the little resale store that supports the big mission of the American Cancer Society. Sizes range from 6 to 18 and include styles from Jessica McClintock, Monique Luo and more. There are also some “worn once” gowns at terrific savings. Original retail prices starting at $800 into the thousands – yours for $100 to $150. The shop needs to clear floor space so get there soon. Find your dream gown and support a super cause. Now that’s a happy ending! The ACS Discovery Shop is located at 2011 Main St., Vancouver, WA. Open until 4:30 M-F and 4:00 on Sat. Closed Sun. 360-695-8215. You may want to call ahead to inquire about gowns as they have more off site. Click here for information on the American Cancer Society.
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British Groom Weds Portland Sweetheart

Sunday morning’s rain didn’t keep the smiles from shining through for this happy couple. No stranger to wet weather, Kilby arrived from the U.K. on the 4th of July to wed his American sweetheart, Dolores. The intimate wedding was held at Mt. Tabor Park in a grove of cedar trees. D gifted guests with sweet mini-bouquets of fresh lavender which she hand-picked at a lavender farm earlier in the week. Each bouquet was accented with a special feather brought from England and then tied with ribbon and love. The wedding party celebrated with brunch at Toast Restaurant in SE PDX before the bride and groom headed to Sisters for their honeymoon cabin. Kilby, a holistic therapist, returns home in August where he lives and works on his English Narrow boat. The newlyweds will commute between continents until deciding on their future home. Love and Light to you both wherever your new road takes you!

Events, weddings

The Girl Said Yes

You may be one of the thousands who has already viewed this incredible “Best Marriage Proposal Ever” on YouTube but here’s what you may NOT know:

It’s a Portland couple. It was filmed in a local neighborhood off 99. The groom-to-be is starring as Captain Von Trapp in the Broadway Rose Theater production of The Sound of Music opening later this month in Tigard. (Fun note: PDX favorite, Margie Boule, stars as Mother Abbess.) Thanks to my daughter, Holly, for sharing the interesting tidbits. And thanks to my July bride, Dolores, for sending the video my way. Click here to view the tape. It’s such a feel good five minutes!

weddings

HONEY Moon in June

I’ve heard lots of theories about the origination of the word “honeymoon” but the one I like best is this one. June is the traditional month of weddings (still THE most popular month to take those vows) and the full moon in the month of June is known as the “honey” moon. Goes back to ancient times when it was determined to be the best time to gather honey. Other months offer different titles for their full moons (grass moon, snow moon, harvest moon, etc.). But this is the time of the honey moon. Which finally explains the lyrics of the popular song “By The Light of the Silvery Moon” written in 1909 and the movie of the same title made in 1953 (my birth year). I used to sing it as a kid. “Honey moon, keep a-shinin’ in June. Your silvery beams will bring love’s dreams, We’ll be cuddlin’ soon, By the silvery moon.” Sweet! Click to hear Doris Day and the honey moon duet.

Book Suggestions, Helpful Hints

Make It Personal

As much as I love orchestrating ceremonies, there is equal joy in showing people how to create their own. Creating ceremonies to celebrate special moments is a beautiful way to add meaning to your life. It’s a powerful force in helping to bring closure, provide comfort, celebrate with joy or honor the memory of loved ones. Ceremonies can be simple and intimate, incorporating private memories and/or traditional rituals. Sacred Ceremony offers suggestions and guidelines for doing it your way. Another wonderful offering from Steven Farmer, this book has been out for a few years but remains a favorite. You can order from Amazon or directly from Earth Magic website. While there, take a look at Steven’s other popular books and downloads. He’s especially noted for his animal spirit works. Enjoy.

Helpful Hints, Inspiration

Mobile Medicine for Your Heart

One of my most beloved mentors, Louise Hay, now has her life changing tools available on Mobile Apps. 30 years ago I bought her first publication, Heal Your Body. That little gem of a book has since been translated in 29 languages in 35 countries. It’s THAT powerful. Louise healed herself of vaginal cancer and became a pioneer in the field of mind/body medicine. Today, a vibrant teacher in her 80’s, Louise continues to inspire and share the message that we have the power to change our health and our hearts. Check out her wide variety of books, DVDs, eBooks and Mobile Apps. You’ll find focused help on overcoming fears, creating romance, improving your job, relieving stress … even a series for children. Simple, affordable and now mobile!

Bridal Gowns, weddings

What’s Your Fairytale?

Disney (as in amusement parks and movie studios) collaborated with Alfred Angelo and introduced their first Fairy Tale Wedding line in Chicago in 2010. Using classic animated stories for inspiration, the gowns evoked the essence of princesses everywhere. What a great way to blend beloved childhood stories with your own happy ending. Are you a Jasmine or a Cinderella? Maybe a Belle? I’ve always been partial to Sleeping Beauty. View the new 2012 collection to find your favorite and here’s to happily ever after.

Bridal Shower, Events, Helpful Hints, Vendor, Wedding Reception

Cupcakes from the Heart

I’ve been a fan of gourmet cupcakes since they first hit the scene a few years ago. They’re a great crowd pleaser and such a fun alternative to standard cake. No one puts more heart and soul into baking cupcakes than Barb and Rick Nischalke of Cookies, Cupcakes & More. Specializing in weddings and events in the PDX metro area, the couple offers cupcakes and cookies in a wide variety of flavors and frostings to enhance any occasion. Unlike most other commercial bakers, Barb and Rick provide lots of creative flexibility and welcome custom orders. You can even request a private tasting session while you discuss design ideas. I’m a fan of their Chocolate Peanut Butter with the runner up being their After Dinner Mint with Andes mint pieces in the cake. Yum! Whether you are planning a wedding for 100, an office party for 50, or a baby shower for 25 – give them a call. They love what they do and it shows. You couldn’t be in nicer hands.  Visit the website now .

Events

Wedding Wire Award

 A FESTIVE HEART has won the Wedding Wire Bride’s Choice Award for the second year in a row. Thanks to all the wonderful couples who voted and shared their warm reviews. You make it festive work indeed!