60th Wedding Anniversary

It was a last minute call from a client from another fabulous wedding planner that I couldn't pass up...a 60th Wedding Anniversary Party for nearly 200 guests. I have never planned an anniversary party, let alone find a cater with only 8 days until the party, but I took on the challenge. Walter and Ginger Hart, who were married August 26, 1950 were being celebrated by their family and friends and hosted by their children.

The first issue was to find a caterer in such a short time frame...not to mention that the party was during the Labor Day weekend. Luckily, I was able to find a great caterer in "The Upper Crust," based in Seattle. Working with Jim and my client Denise, we were able to create a great menu that really worked for the clients and a large number of their guests that required low sodium, low fat and gluten free.

When the major hurdle was tackled, the next step was helping Denise finalize table decor and the programs for the event. Since it was the couple's 60th anniversary... the diamond anniversary, we really took that theme to heart by having diamonds on the tables and bringing in flameless candles and frames that showcased the images of this couple over the past 60 years.

One special touch was the cake by Haggens in Bellingham. They created a three-tier marble cake followed up with four smaller cakes that represented all of their other anniversary parties and their wedding topped off with their actual cake toppers from their wedding day and anniversary parties.

Then on Thursday, I got the call that the guest of honor was rushed to the hospital and there was a chance that she may not survive the night. Keeping my thoughts and prayers that Ginger was going to recover, the plan was to still have the party since Ginger was looking forward to her party and thankfully it was this party that helped her recover enough to be able to attend the party. The morning of her party, Denise picked her mother up from the hospital since she told me later that there was nothing that was going to stop her from coming to her party.

The party was amazing and truly a marvelous occasion to celebrate since not many couples make it to 60 years. The day was a true testament to the love Walter and Ginger have for each other and all of the love and support they have received over the years from their friends and family.

Sneak Peeks Katie and Brandon

Here are some sneak peeks from Katie and Brandon's wedding at the Inn at Port Ludlow. These amazing images are from Sea Studios.

Vendor Spotlight: Atelier Maris

Why did you start your company?
I started Atelier Maris after making my own daughter’s wedding dress and accessories and my MOB dress. I have loved sewing and designing for my entire life, but I realized during the wedding preparations how much I truly loved sewing with luxurious bridal fabrics and embellishments. It is so much fun to create beautiful accessories that can add “just the right touch” to a special gown on a special day.

What is your favorite part working with brides?
I want to help make every bride’s wedding day dreams come true by making her dress unique and totally customized for HER. I love taking a palette or design concept and creating the perfect accessory – the one that makes a woman say “YES, that’s it!”

What makes your company stand out from the rest?
Atelier Maris specializes in creating a unique, couture look for any wedding dress by adding custom accessories. My favorite accessories are silk flower corsages and detachable trains. Both items are made from silk organza, and add a lovely ethereal look to a wedding dress. These beautiful items provide a distinctive touch to any gown – whether it is budget-priced or a designer original. I use only the finest materials and work with each bride to fulfill her vision for the perfect wedding dress.

Advice you would give brides on finding the perfect dress and accessories?
Stay true to your vision and find someone who will work with you to create the look you want, and stay within your budget. It is possible to have a beautiful dress and a beautiful wedding at any price point – so keep shopping!

What are the new trends you are seeing?
I love how lace is being used – either a complete lace dress or an embellishment. I also love the saturated color combinations brides are using – so much more fun and vibrant than pale pink! I also love the fun shoes that all members of the wedding parties are wearing now – it adds such a whimsical touch.

Contact info:
ateliermaris@live.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ateliermaris

Sneak Peek from Annie and John

Here is a sneak peek of images from Tasha Owen Photography from Saturday's wedding at Annie Wright and the reception at the Fircrest Golf Club.

My sister is engaged!

I received a very important phone call during our fireworks demonstration on the Fourth of July and it was my sister calling to tell me that she was engaged. I was so excited! My sister, Nicole, who is three years younger than me has been dating her now fiancee Morgan for nearly two years and met soon after she moved back to Washington from a two-year stint working in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

My whole family has fallen in love with Morgan, but especially my two boys who already consider Morgan, their uncle. He is going to be a great addition to our family!

Now, let the planning for a summer 2011 wedding begin. Our first step is wedding dress shopping this weekend.

The best thing is that I am the Maid of Honor, something I am so "honored" to have.