Tiffani, The Upbeat Wedding Officiant

Dana Cakes!!

2011-09-19T22:57:00.000-07:00

Wedding cakes are definately an important highlight of a wedding reception. There are many places who can provide you with your cake but do you really want to entrust just anyone to provide yours?

Let me tell you about a wonderful resource!! Dana Filer, of Dana Cakes (or sometimes referred to as "the Arlington cake lady" by her clients) has been creating masterpiece wedding cakes and grooms cakes for many years. She is personable and is fantastic at what she does. Pictured above is the four tier wedding cake that she made for my husband and I's wedding reception and let me tell you, it was the talk of our event!

As an officiant and planner, I have had the opportunity to taste many different wedding cakes -- from cakes made by bakeries, grocery stores, bride and groom's family members and friends and many are either run-of-the-mill in taste or look gorgeous but lack the flavor and the punch that I anticipated on tasting. Dana's cakes are moist, of high quality and just plain pretty to look at! (I actually have a photo of me wincing as my husband and I were preparing to cut into our masterpiece.) To be honest, after I had booked our wedding venue, Countryside Meadows in Arlington, I immediately contacted Dana to ask her to create our cake. I had my priorities set.

Even though I had tasted her cakes she offered to have us come to her home for our tasting. Waiting for us were flavors including a luscious lemon with lemon filling, a marble, traditional white and my personal favorite, chocolate. She also had binders and binders of photos that had different cakes she had created for us to look through. As we feasted on cake samples and sipped coffee with her, we discussed design, how many guests we would be feeding and even colors. Dana assisted us with coordinating colors and even upheld my husband's request to have no green on our cake (the Irishman was superstitious....). Dana came through with flying colors!

The day of our event, she arrived to set up her masterpiece. It wasn't like some cake companies who leave them to be assembled. Dana had requested that we have our cake topper left for her to add for us. With cake table ready, Dana carefully assembled our cake, added extra sugar flowers to match our wedding colors and voila! The proof is above. Dana also provides a cake topper box and instructions on how to preserve your cake until your anniversary.

You can see her other creations by visiting her link on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Danacakes/194221030626288. To make an appointment with her, you may contact her at 360 435 9583 or by email at dfiler64@gmail.com.

The End of Summer

2011-09-19T18:47:00.000-07:00

What seemed to be a summer filled with fall-like weather is over. Can you believe it? The kids are back to school and the rest of the state seems to be trying to get back into a rhythm. But the fall is another wonderful time of the year for wedding bells!

There are some wonderful wedding themes and venues that are just waiting to be discovered! Some clients stage their wedding venue at a family or friend's home while others explore the options that await them. In the PNW, it's a must to have an indoor venue during the fall. Some great ideas to consider are your local Parks & Rec departments (if you're a resident of that city, ask about the reduced resident rate aka a discount!!), a restaurant that can accomodate a ceremony and a reception, or not to forget a hotel! My personal favorites include Floral Hall or Legion Hall in Everett; Tulalip Bay inside of The Tulalip Resort in Tulalip (Marysville); Countryside Meadows in Arlington; the Medallion Hotel in Arlington; and Hillcrest Lodge in Mt. Vernon.

A Wedding At Camano Island Inn

2010-09-20T02:59:00.000-07:00

Camano Island Inn was once rated "The Best Place To Kiss" and there's no secret as to why!

I have had the opportunity to perform several weddings at this retreat located on beautiful Camano Island. From an intimate gathering of a few guests to a reception dinner, Camano Island Inn can do it all!

They have an amazing view overlooking the beautiful Puget Sound. You can select from having your ceremony on the balcony off of your private suite, upon the upper deck, or down below near (or even on!) the beach. It's also a great location for a romantic getaway or honeymoon.

Congrats, Anthony & Vanessa!

2010-09-17T14:20:00.000-07:00

On their five year anniversary, Anthony Beardsley and Vanessa Giaimo became husband and wife. This couple served as a reminder to me how much in love you can be even after all of those years.

Ironically enough, there was two degrees of separation from me and this wonderful couple. Anthony's mom owns Prohibition Grille, a fabulous restaurant in downtown Everett. So how is this relative? Well, his mom lives across the street from good friends of mine and I had known about her restaurant through them. Funny how small of a world we can live in.

Anthony and Vanessa married at Floral Hall in Everett. Their ceremony was a reflection of their love from the details of their bridesmaids to their friend who played the ceremony music (they are big music fans, with Anthony playing in a band) to their personal vows that they wrote. The vows, might I add, were a suprise to all of us -- they had selected to not have anyone including myself hear them until wedding day. Their words were enough to take my own breath away! I could feel tears swelling in my eyes and a lump forming in my throat. That hadn't happened for years during a ceremony but their words and their love were that moving.

Not only was I invited to join them at the rehearsal dinner the night before but I was also extended the invite to the reception. The food and the atmosphere was delish! Lots of fun and frolick was had by all.

Congratulations again, Mr. & Mrs. Beardsley!

A Photographer & Officiant For $1,000 ???

2010-07-15T14:16:00.000-07:00

photo courtesy of marcusphotographyaz.com

Award winning photojournalist & Pacific Northwesterner Marcus Nichols is teaming up with Evening Magazine’s “Best Of Western Washington” Wedding Officiant finalist, Tiffani the Upbeat Wedding Officiant, to offer an amazing, recession-busting package.

(If you are planning a wedding from September through December 2010, we are talking to you!)

For $1,000 you can obtain the services and work of these two highly credited wedding professionals!

Services by Tiffani include:

• Planning session
• rehearsal conducted
• coordination with your wedding vendors for your ceremony
• arrival to your venue 1 hr prior to your ceremony
• a personalized ceremony written on behalf of you & your fiancée
• a keepsake copy of your ceremony
• filing of all completed marriage paperwork with the county

Services by Marcus include:

• photojournalistic approach to document your wedding day
• onsite photography of bride & groom as they “get ready”
• ceremony photography
• portrait photography available
• memorable, tasteful & fun reception photography
• photos placed on CD and you have all of the rights!

These services are available at a dramatic savings of over $1500. Inquire about our availability today. Call 425-508-8090 or email tiffani@upbeatweddingofficiant.com Please include wedding day & venue location in your email.

Martha Stuart's Next Competitor......Meet Karen (Sanders) Troughton

2010-06-24T17:44:00.000-07:00

I love my job. Why? Well, not only is it fabulous to have the clients that I have but I get to know and meet wonderful people. Wonderfully, extremely talented people, too!
The first weekend in June, I had the privilege to marry off Karen & Jeff Troughton. These two have a great story as well. (I know, many of my couples do!) Karen did so much planning and really created a fantastic reception and wedding site. Karen and Jeff married at Blueberry Ridge Farm in Monroe, WA (http//www.visitblueberryridge.com). Throughout the grounds, Karen's creations could be found from the entrance of the farm, to the ceremony site, the patio area for cocktail hour and inside the reception area. I took photos of some of her fantastic (and as she claimed, easy to do) decorations.
Karen also has a blog with fantasticly easy recipes, design and decorating ideas and even some information about her husband and her dogs. Please consider visiting it at http://www.hazelboom.typepad.com
Congratulations Jeff! You are incredibly lucky to have a wife like Karen. :)

A Photographer, A Coordinator/DJ/MC, and Officiant.....Oh My!

2010-06-24T17:30:00.000-07:00

PJ Parsons, Summer Myers and I all on the same wedding site made for some fun times! Who are these people, you ask? Well, let me connect them to help sort them out.
Summer Myers is the owner and photographer of Surge Photography (www.surgephot.com). She and I met about two and a half years ago during a renewal of vows celebration out in Snoqualmie. Summer's warm presence and her eye for details really sets the stage with her work! Summer also provides links to her website so that your guests may view and even have the option to purchase photos of your special day. Summer captures great shots without being pushy or in your personal space. (This is a fabulous thing, as I have worked with numerous people, both professional and non-professional, who don't always extend this courtesy to the officiant. Makes for a bit of an akward experience!)
PJ Parsons is owner of PJ Parsons Presents (pjparsonspresents.com). I have heard of PJ in the wedding industry and was happy to finally be able to put a name to her face. Not only does she provide music and her mad skills on the PA system but she also provides coordinating services. It's two wedding professionals in one! How fabulous is that? Her equipment is state-of-the-art and so is her personality. If you are looking for a take-charge kind of coordinator, one who will respect and uphold your wants and wishes she is definately the one to seek out.
I wanted to commemorate our experience together with a photo of us three. Outgoing we are!

An Officer & His Bride -- Congratulations Jeff & Patty Stephens!

2010-06-24T16:54:00.000-07:00

Jeff & Patty recently married at the Grand Vista Ballroom at the Everett Naval Station in Everett, WA. Jeff & Patty share a beautiful love story with lots of old fashioned romance rolled up into it!
I love to see couples in love. Jeff, a southern officer in the Navy, and Patty, a teacher, have a commitment to each other that crosses miles & time zones. Jeff is truly a gentleman in every sense of the word. He reminds his wife how much he loves her when he's away by doing thoughtful things, sending gifts of flowers and is always trying to amaze her. Believe it or not, but he was able to arrange to have Nickleback play a song, at the same concert she attended, that he was dedicating to her while he was away. Amazing, right?
At their ceremony, they had an old-fashioned entrance, with Patty seeing her groom for the first time when she walked down the isle. I specifically remember the words that came out of his mouth when he saw his bride for the first time....."Can I say it again?" which he was referring to the first thing he said when he had seen her. I laughed and told him that he already had.
Jeff and Patty suprised each other with gifts during the ceremony as well. Jeff had his personal vows engraved on a beautiful picture frame, with their engagement photo adorned on the opposite side. Jeff had always teased that he'd marry his girl in a parking lot, with dandelions and a blueberry muffin instead of wedding cake -- so Patty presented him with this special keepsake. They loved them just the same!
At their wedding, I was pleasantly suprised to be working with Summer Myers (owner of surgephoto.com and photographer. I've had the chance to work with Summer on multiple occasions, with our first time on a wedding in Snoqualmie. This girl travels!! (The picture on this blog post is courtesy of her.) I also was introduced to PJ Parsons, who is a DJ/MC/and a Coordinator! This girl is amazingly talented and has a knack for detail. (See the next posting of the three of us, taking a time out.) Consider her for your next event. You can read more about her on her website www.pjparsonspresents.com
Congratulations to you both! May you be blessed with many happy years together.

Congratulations, Catherine & Sal Delos Santos !!

2010-06-06T00:26:00.000-07:00

Catherine & Sal recently married during Memorial Day weekend. Their wedding venue was the Historic Snohomish Belle Chapel in Snohomish, WA.
This couple will always stand out as one of my most favorite couples for many reasons. First and foremost, Catherine & Sal chose to meet with me over a few different planning sessions. This is so helpful because it allows both myself and my client to be able to follow up in person on wedding details. They also were very dilligent in getting me answers to questions that were left over from our planning sessions. (I lovingly call this "homework".) They also were in touch with me over the several months that we collaborated on their wedding day, thanks to emails and phone calls we had made back and forth. Before long, I had been dubbed "Reverend Tiffers".
We had developed a great connection, the three of us, during the time that we spent planning for their big day and being able to share with them, their family and friends in the festivities was more than I could have ever asked for. Catherine & Sal honored me in many ways. They had invited me to their rehearsal dinner, at The Cabbage Patch Restaurant in downtown Snohomish. (You have to try their food -- I had the Manila clams in a butter & garlic sauce along with their house raspberry vinagrette on a bed of spinach and candied walnuts...yum!) I also was presented with a beautiful corsage to be worn during the ceremony along with joining them at their reception. The reception was catered by The Cabbage Patch restaurant, one of Sal's favorite places. It was such a treat!
Thank you again, Catherine & Sal, for allowing me to serve as your officiant. And, yes, Sal, you are right -- you two really know how to pull off a great party. :)

Wedding Season 2010 Is In Full Swing!

2010-06-05T22:26:00.000-07:00

Well, wedding season is officially underway! For this officiant, May kicks off the beginning of many busy months. In the month of May alone, I had the privilege of serving 11 couples and bringing them into marriage. Congratulations to:

Tracy & David
Beth & Harry
Jessica & Josh
Jennifer & Danny
Jaime & Scott
Jeremy & Becky
Brandy & Shawn
Brian & Megan
Racheal & Shannon
Micheal & Michelle
Catherine & Sal

An Intimate Elopement On The Homestead

2010-03-30T10:29:00.000-07:00

Bob & Lisa Watkins, innkeepers & owners of Arlington's River Rock Inn, specialize in romantic getaways. Sometimes a romantic getaway includes a destination wedding. Bridal couple Jeff & Shalice planned a trip from their home in Oregon up to the River Rock Inn not only for a getaway but to also say "I do"!
Bob suggested taking some footage of their ceremony, which took place last year. So, with his handy camera in hand, he was able to capture the vows & ring exchange footage for their family and friends to see. (It was an elopement style ceremony, with just the witnesses and bridal couple.) Since Jeff & Shalice are lovers of the outdoors, Bob had also suggested taking us out to "the north forty", which overlooked a beautiful section of their property. We even had a view of a building that was built back in the early 1900s, if I recall correctly!

Here's a little footage of this intimate, romantic celebration. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1TmK9uJgDg

One of the best things I've heard in a long time....

2010-02-03T23:53:00.001-08:00

This weekend my journeys headed me in the NE direction of our state, to Glacier. (For those who haven't been up there, it's accessible off of the Mt Baker Hwy via Bellingham.) Kyle & Jenni had selected me as their wedding officiant several months ago and on Saturday, they became husband and wife.
They selected a cabin nestled in the woods in the Snowline community. A lover of the outdoors, this setting suited my couple to a T. Kyle, donning a Mossy Oak vest and tie under his tuxedo, and Jenni, who carried a more natural basket to include pine cones instead of a traditional flower bouquet, were surrounded by close family and friends.
After the ceremony, I invited family and friends to come forward to offer their best wishes and love to our newlyweds. I had overheard a man mention something about "if he was crazy to do it all over again...." as he hugged the groom. Later, the bride's mother confirmed the partial conversation I had heard. The man was her brother, the bride's uncle. He had come up to his sister and had told her, too, that "if he was crazy to do it all over again" he'd call me to marry him off. What a compliment, especially after I learned that this man was not the marrying kind!
I think that compliment will stay close to me for many years to come.

Best of W. WA Wedding Officiants

2010-01-11T01:33:00.000-08:00

It's amazing to be able to serve the people I bring into marriage. It's wonderful to hear the feedback their guests, families and friends provide me after I've delivered the wedding celebration. It's humbling to be able to be nominated for last year's 2009 KING 5's Best of Western WA wedding officiant category and to finish in 3rd place!

I was up against 22 different wedding officiants. (It's amazing to realize how many people perform ceremonies!) I had some pretty tough competition, too. I was able to read all of the wonderful comments and feedback that were casted on that website. (For a quick reference, please visit this link: http://www.best.king5.com/an-upbeat-wedding-officiant/biz/490097#more ) A great big thank you to all who took the time to cast your vote and to those who left kind words and messages, too. A congratulations to my colleagues who placed in the 1st and 2nd positions! See you next year. :)

"Funny" How Things Work Out

2009-10-28T11:39:00.000-07:00

Kirsten & Adam are a couple that I served this last April. They had an intimate elopment-style wedding ceremony at Arlington's River Rock Inn (www.riverrockinnbnb.com). I am a lover of stories and did the rings that Kirsten and Adam have tell a story!

Kirsten and Adam had decided that they wanted to have an old-fashioned, elopement -- the kind where you take off onto an adventure and get married in front of God, a minister and two witnesses. The innkeepers, Bob and Lisa, stood in as the witnesses and I, of course, as the minister.

I had the chance to work with Kirsten and Adam via email, as we planned the details for their celebration. I had asked whether or not Kirsten and Adam had decided about whether they would exchange wedding rings. Since they were planning on having a family celebration in the future, they were unsure. As wedding day approached, Kirsten informed me that they did get rings and that they would be exchanging them during the ceremony. (At the time, I didn't know that there was a story behind the rings. Was I in for a suprise!!) With vows and ring exchange wording selected, I was ready to meet this LMP and deputy district attorney in person.

On a beautiful spring day, I performed their ceremony in the picturesque, woodsy property that the River Rock Inn is nestled in. The peaceful setting, the melodic sounds of birds in the backround surely set the mood. After a brief ceremony, it was official -- and Adam kissed his bride!

When we moved from the back patio to the inside of the lodge, I prepared their paperwork. I can't remember who started telling me the story but it is one that I won't ever forget.

Adam and Kirsten explained to me that the night prior to them checking in for their honeymoon weekend at the River Rock Inn, they had gone to visit Adam's mom. Before leaving, she had presented them with wedding rings that had belonged to his grandmother and great-grandmother. Now, keep in mind, no one knew of their plans for the next day.....Even more amazing, both fit perfectly onto both Adam and Kirsten's fingers! Need proof? See the picture of these rings on their hand above.

Some may say it's a coincidence. Others may say that it was meant to be. What do you think??

"Best of Western WA" wedding officiant contest

2009-10-28T11:30:00.000-07:00

Every year, KING 5's Evening Magazine has what they've dubbed "Best of Western Washington" contest, open to different industries and businesses throughout Western Washington. This year, I had the honor of not only being nominated but also running against 20 wedding officiants in the same category.

The polls closed after about a month and the winners were announced on October 26th. Guess what?? Tiffani, The Upbeat Wedding Officiant placed 3rd! This was very exciting for me. I was up against some very long term wedding officiants, pastors and celebrants. There was about a week and a half where I did get to enjoy first place. As the contest progressed colleagues of mine who have been in the wedding business fought for first and second places.

Here's the link to my page:

http://best.king5.com/winners/best-of-western-washington/4749/weddings/officiant?place=3

Congratulations to all of you! A special, BIG THANKS to all of my clients, their family and friends who supported me during this run with your kind words, positive feedback and votes!

Hope Haven Photography

2009-10-28T11:09:00.000-07:00

pictured: Denise Lee, owner of Hope Haven Photography, and her husband, Steven

In the wedding industry, I have met many people. Every once in awhile, I get to meet another wedding professional whose philosophy and personalities mesh very well with my own. Denise Lee, owner of Hope Haven Photography, happens to be one of those people.

I first worked with Denise a few years ago, on a wedding for a couple we both served. Tony & Ashley Hoggard held their ceremony and reception at the Edmonds Senior Center in Edmonds, WA. When I had checked in onsite, I met Denise and her daughter, Alex, who serves as her assistant. Denise and Alex took pre-ceremony (sometimes referred to as the "getting ready" photos) of the bride & groom getting ready and some of the behind-the-scene helpers. I still try not to smile too much when there's photos of me being taken talking to my couples. :)

I loved how Denise arrived early & prepared, with suggestions and ideas. I really liked how Denise did some things that were above and beyond that of a photographer. Denise even has a bridal emergency kit, complete with things from water to bandaids to everything in between!

Since then, Denise and I have had the chance to work with each other at least once if not twice a year. I have had the joy of getting to know her on a more personal level as well as her family. There are some wedding professionals that I get to work with that I like to refer to as "the dream team". Denise, Steven and Alex are amongst that group of people!

In addition to wedding photography, Denise also does family portraits and other life events. I am also deeply touched by the volunteering she does giving of her time and talents to causes such as animal adoption events, working with high school seniors, mentoring up-and-coming photographers and even free Halloween portraits to kids both big and small on Halloween.

To see her work, please visit her website at www.hope-haven.net or follow her blog at http://hopehavenphotography.blogspot.com/.

The End of Another Busy Wedding Season

2009-10-28T10:44:00.000-07:00

My "peak" wedding season runs from February through September. I have been blessed with wonderful bridal couples once again. Thanks to the following bridal couples that I served during this time:
John & Deb
Beth & Charlie
Melissa & Eddy
Vu & Jessica
Araceli & Edgar
Brian & Linda
Jennifer & Michael
Jim & Carlette
Mike & Maria
Stephany & Derrick
Justin & Tana
Nikki & Frank
Edd & Wendy
Brandi & Jeff
Jenny & Anthony
Jim & Juvy
Holley & Chris
Jim & Debbie
Jasmine & Nathan
Dennis & Eva
Abdoulaye & Reine
Yolanda & Jamaal
Tina & Andy
Ron & Stephanie
Jamie & Juan
Joy & Jason
Nora & Richard
Jason & Jeannette
Alex & Aimee
Thao & Armand
Vicky & James
Chad & Blanca
Tracy & Rafael
Brandy & Adam
Jennifer & Ivan
Paula & Steven
Becky & Chad
Laura & Roland
Linda & Eric
Darren & Tina
Diane & Paul
Mitchell & Melissa
Marlon & Leah
Vince & Anita
Elaine & Marcel
Jessica & TJ
Holly & Frank
Trina & James
Laurren & Andy
John & Nicole
Angelica & Josh
Chris & Laura
Dean & Ming
Miranda & Spencer
Natasha & Lance
Scott & Carol
Christopher & Mariette
Launa & Vic
Brenna & Jesse
Scott & Tina
April & Damien
Holly & Keven
Billierose & Preston
Cheryl & Sal
Tammy & Curtis
Tasha & Steven
Tyffani & Damon
Dave & Jaime
Karen & Jose
Cindy & Ryan
Dani & Kelly
Tina & Leo
Amy & Jason
Jennifer & Phillip
Barbara & Wayne
Donna & TJ
Alex & Joel

Leonard & Tina (Arlington, WA)

2009-09-17T20:49:00.000-07:00

I had the honor of serving as Leonard and Tina's wedding officiant. It is always special when a couple selects me to bring them into marriage. With Leonard and Tina, to be able to share in the moment that they became husband and wife was something I will never forget!

Leonard had initially contacted me as a result of finding my website online. I have to admit, the first few times I read through his email I wasn't sure what to make of it! His initial email complimented me on my site and stated that he and his fiancee would be thrilled to have me serve as their officiant. I thought, "Well, I like them already!" He had explained to me the history he shared with his fiancee, Tina. He explained that he had been reunited with his teenage sweetheart some 28 years later. He went into detail what had happened, and their love story. It sounded so tragic. I can remember reading through the email and wondering if it was true.

The hopeless romantic in me had to write back! I was crossing my fingers that it wasn't some phony email generaged from some man in India who would soon ask me to cash a cashier's check and send me the difference. (Unfortunately, I've had a few of those come across my in box.) I was excited when I read that it was an authentic email, sent from an authentic groom who happened to live in the neighboring town of Arlington. We discussed scheduling a consultation with the three of us to meet. I was so excited to hear their story in person. I came prepared to write!

We had agreed to meet at a restaurant in Smokey Point. When I arrived, Leonard and Tina greeted me with their warm smiles. I just love when a couple can share with me intimate details about themselves to help me get to know them better. They spoke about what it was like when they were teenagers, the things they did. I smile when I think about how eager I was to hear the details! Leonard even shared that he had even walked the length of the I-90 bridge to get to her home, just to see if she was there. Can you imagine?! Tina shared about how she felt when she was with him and how the same feelings were there almost 30 years later. As they shared with me, it was as though I was writing the rough draft of their ceremony in my head.

Thanks to technology (and their school friend, Jody) "Len" was reunited with "Tippy" (their names for each other). They tied the knot Saturday, September 12th, 2009 in Arlington in front of 120+ family and friends cheering them on. All of their children were present, many who were in their bridal party. And guess what? Jody was in the bridal party, too!

I will never forget their faces as they exchanged wedding rings and spoke the words, "....I have emptied my heart of all others; it is only filled with you. You are my best friend and my only love. I will cherish you for the rest of my life." I don't think there was a dry eye in the house.

Congratulations, Leonard and Tina! May you be blessed with many more years of love and happiness.

Memorial Service For Wedding Officiant, Sean Patrick O'Reilly

2009-09-10T12:57:00.001-07:00

As a wedding officiant, we are selected by engaged couples to join them on a very happy and exciting day in their relationship. The joys I have personally received as an officiant & celebrant are memories that will last me my lifetime.

I recently read of the passing of a wedding officiant/celebrant who was well known in the wedding industry and throughout Puget Sound -- Sean Patrick O'Reilly. He was also an award winning officiant.

There will be a celebration of his life on October 4th, 2009 in West Seattle. Although I did not get the chance to know him personally, he was a colleague nonetheless. I plan on attending this celebration to pay tribute to a man who was blessed to be a part of the ministry that few are called to do.

Here is a link to his website for more information:

www.seanpatrickoreilly.com

God's blessings to you and your family, Sean. May your energy and love live on through the memories that you were a part of and the wonderful work you did.

Catching up

2009-09-10T12:38:00.001-07:00

Pictured: Tiffani pre-ceremony talking with groom, Vince

It's been awhile since I have been on here to blog. I have been blessed with a very busy and productive wedding season, despite our lagging economy!

I'll be spending the next several weeks updating my blog, posting some of my favorite couples and weddings along with pictures on here. Keep checking back in to see my progress! (You can also subscribe to my blog but clicking on the button...just look for "follow blog" option.)

Happy September, everyone!

Thao & Armand 6-6-09 (Everett, WA)

2009-07-27T01:10:00.000-07:00

Thao and Armand are a couple that I served who married on June 6th. They selected Grand Avenue Park in Everett, WA for their wedding venue. They had been referred to me by Thao's twin sister, who I had the privilege of serving when she and her husband married last year.
Thao and Armand were looking for a laid-back yet formal ceremony. Their family members were present as well as a few close friends. At this particular section of the park, there was intricate detailing in the cement walkway. Armand and Thao added a decorated arch for me to perform their ceremony under.
The weather is always an issue for my couples who plan an outdoor wedding. Luckily, the weather behaved and the rain stayed away for Thao and Armand to get married. Yay! I know they appreciated that just as much as I did. Congratulations again, Thao and Armand!

Alex & Aimee 6-4-09 (Poulsbo, WA Marina)

2009-07-27T01:01:00.000-07:00

Alex and Aimee are a couple who I served on June 4th. I recently received pictures from them and had to blog about them!
Their ceremony took place on a dock in Poulsbo. It was a beautiful evening, with the sun shining upon the water. When I arrived, I met up with Alex and Aimee and their witnesses. We walked through the marina and to a floating dock. I wasn't sure how rocky the dock would be -- Aimee assured me that she had some Dramamine on hand, waiting in the car, should any of us need it! (I'm always grateful for humor in any wedding situation.)
Alex, an officer in the Navy, and his bride Aimee, an attorney back in Texas, had selected an intimate, "elopement style" ceremony. They had plans of celebrating back home once Alex was discharged from the Navy and he relocated. Aimee had flown up to Washington state and a few days later, they married. Thank goodness our weather behaved and showed its sunny side to this out of town visitor!
Congratulations, Alex & Aimee -- may you be blessed with many, many, MANY years of happiness!

Wedding Season Is In Full Bloom!

2009-07-27T00:54:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I have posted a blog. The middle of wedding season is my only excuse! As summer is leading to hotter weather, so are the number of couples getting married. I sat down tonight to tally up how many couples I've served. To date, I am in the mid 200s. I can hardly believe it myself! What a blessing, to have served so many couples.

I've added a few new names to my Preferred Vendors List on my website. A new caterer, a great new DJ are now in the ranks and added. (More on these pros in upcoming blogs.) In the meantime, enjoy the summer -- before long, we'll be back in our fall weather and football season!

Wedding Venue Review: Tibbetts Creek Manor, An Issaquah wedding venue

2009-06-26T22:29:00.000-07:00

Jennifer & Ivan's wedding was my first trip to Tibbetts Creek Manor in Issaquah. It is located off of I-90 and very accessible from the freeway. Tibbetts Creek Manor is a beautiful facility, which offers indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception options. This is a great option for the Pacific Northwest's unpredictable weather patterns.

The dressing areas are upstairs and private. Although they are located not far from the main entrance, the winding staircase separates the guests' entrance from the private quarters. Restrooms are located on both floors which avoids having the bride, groom and their bridal party from being seen by guests before the ceremony begins. Who wants to ruin the element of suprise?

There is ample room in the kitchen onsite. Tables, chairs, and linens are available as well. Two parking areas are also available for your guests. The site is also wheelchair accessible. For more information, please visit the Issaquah Parks and Rec department's website.

Love From High School Is Alive & Happy! (Jennifer & Ivan's Issaquah wedding)

2009-06-26T22:15:00.000-07:00

Ivan and Jennifer married Saturday, June 20th at Tibbetts Creek Manor in beautiful Issaquah. Ivan and Jennifer connected with me after reading about me on theknot.com's message board. (A current couple that I am working with for their August wedding gave me great praise!) Just a few days after initially contacting me, I knew that this couple was going to be great to work with.

Ivan and Jennifer were high school sweethearts and have been together ever since. They've grown individually and as a couple and have shared in many special moments. Their celebration at Tibbetts Creek Manor was spectacular! They incorporated family and friends into their celebration, from the bridal party to the unity candle lighting. Once again, there was iffy weather that weekend (isn't it SUPPOSED TO BE nice in June??) but Jennifer and Ivan were prepared. They had both an outdoor and covered areas as options for their celebration. Great idea!

Luckily for us, the weather behaved and we had dry weather. The ceremony took place on the lawn, with over 120 guests in attendance. Because of the importance Jennifer's parents have been in her life, she opted to have both her mother and father escort her down the isle to present her to her groom. There were very few dry eyes all throughout the ceremony.

The guests who attended were a mixture of family and friends who had become family. Many people in attendance had known them over the years and played important roles in their formative years. There was definately a lot of love surrounding this couple!

Congratulations, again, Jenny and Ivan! May your wedding day be the day that you always look back upon with a smile.

Adam & Brandy (Mt. Vernon wedding)

2009-06-26T21:54:00.000-07:00

Adam and Brandy married Friday, June 19th at a family friend's yard in Mt. Vernon, WA. Earlier that day it had rained but by the time it was ceremony time, the rain had stopped, the clouds parted and they were blessed with cool weather and even a few sunbreaks.

Adam and Brandy have a little one, Shawn, who's featured in the photo. He was not going to be left out of the festivities! He kept himself occupied with the flower petals thrown earlier by the flower girl. They both agreed to have a short, yet sweet ceremony which was a collaboration of Brandy's ideas and my writing. Their willingness to be flexible made all of the day's events memorable.

Congratulations, Adam & Brandy! May your marriage and your family be blessed with years of happiness.

Wedding Bells.....Again! (Ron & Stephanie from Idaho)

2009-06-26T21:41:00.000-07:00

Have you considered renewing your wedding vows? Ron and Stephanie did! They were renewing their vows on their seventh year anniversary, at Stephanie's sister and brother-in-law's home in beautiful Snoqualmie. On their original wedding day, Stephanie's mother was not able to attend. This was a way for Stephanie to have her mother experience their wedding celebration all over again!

Stephanie incorporated different elements from her original ceremony and recreated those moments in their vow renewal ceremony. She came down the staircase to the song that was played during their wedding. Ron and Stephanie also used the unity candle ceremony just as they had before and even had programs with their wedding picture on it! They even exchanged wedding rings. It was a beautiful event!

Congratulations, Ron and Stephanie! Maybe I'll see you in another seven years. :)

Chris & Angela (Bellingham wedding couple)

2009-06-04T11:44:00.000-07:00

Chris & Angela married on their first year anniversary back on April 22nd, 2009. Believe it or not, but "team Angela" planned this wedding in less than a month! Angela and Chris are a fun-loving couple who married in the backyard of Chris' parents home in Lynden.
Angela is another DIY bride. I think that there are many positive notes that can be made for a "do it yourself bride". For example, many brides like to be hands on in the event planning. Who knows better than you when it comes to your likes and dislikes? Angela included her husband, Chris, in the planning as well from meeting with me, their photographer Denise Lee of Hope Haven Photography (you can see her work by visiting her website www.hope-haven.net), even down to the selection of their yummy organic cupcakes!
Angela also had wonderful support from her in-laws, Tom & Joyce. Not only did they host this wedding celebration in their home but they also went above and beyond to create a picturesque venue. Tom, recently retired, brought back to life a beautiful wrought iron arch. (You can see it in the above photo.) He also did extensive work on the yard and deck.
Chris and Angela, you were wonderful to work with! May you have many happy years together.

Don & Janet (wedding couple from Marysville, WA)

2009-06-04T11:35:00.001-07:00

Don & Janet are family friends of mine. They were married Sunday, May 17th, 2009 at a friend's home on Camano Island. It is an extra special experience for me to be able to bring two of my friends into marriage!
Don and Janet were looking to incorporate many different aspects of themselves into their celebration. They had decided to incorporate their Christian beliefs, their family heritages, and other personal touches. Don, who is of Scottish decent, and Janet, who is Native American, also dressed in traditional clothing as it pertained to their families' cultures.
We incorporated a smudging ceremony to celebrate Janet's heritage and a handfasting ceremony to celebrate Don's. Don & Janet met at our church and so they wanted their faith in God to be the foundation of their wedding. I incorporated favorite Scriptures and blessings as well. It was a very touching ceremony. They were beyond pleased with the results!
Congratulations, my friends! Many blessings to you both.

Yolanda & Jamaal (Everett, WA wedding couple)

2009-06-04T11:21:00.001-07:00

Yolanda and Jamaal married on Saturday, May 9th, 2009 at the Daughters of the American Revolution, Rainier chapter in Seattle. Yolanda was a DIY bride and planned her celebration from beginning to end. Yolanda heard of me from a website that I advertise on and hired me as their officiant a year prior.
Because of the extensive planning Yolanda did in advance, she was able to meet many of the suggested deadlines early. After her ceremony and honeymoon were done, I touched base with Yolanda to ask of any words of wisdom that she could pass down to future bridal couples. Here's what she said:
"The only tips I can think of is don't freak out about the time schedule too much. At least one member of the bridal party will be late, pictures will run late, and so forth. The DJ will mess up at least one song you selected (our intro song and mother-groom song) and the cake might not be perfect (wrong color) but everything will be fine and nobody will notice except the bride!"
Thank you, Yolanda & Jamaal. May you have many years of happiness together!

Rat City Roller Girl Gets Married! (Juan & Jaime of Everett, WA)

2009-05-26T00:45:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend is traditionally a very busy wedding weekend for me. This year was no exception! This was the first Memorial Day weekend when I didn't perform one single ceremony in the rain. I think I was more excited than my couples!

Juan and Jaime were one of the four couples that I served. Juan, Jaime and I had been working on the planning of their ceremony for nearly a year. Jaime, who works in the event planning industry, is a bride who wanted to see to it that no rock was left unturned for her special day. Their ceremony was held at the Monte Villa Farmhouse in Bothell, WA (www.montevilla.com).

When Jaime isn't working as an event planner, she moonlights as Anya Heels, a Rat City Roller Girl! (Check out their website at www.ratcityrollergirls.com for more information.) Her husband, Juan, actually proposed to her after a championship game. Many of her Rat City Roller Girl friends attended. Her wedding assistant, Jessica, is also a teammate. The photographers who shot their wedding were also photographers for the team. This definately was a team effort!

Best wishes to all of my couples who married this weekend, including:

* Ron & Stephanie, who renewed their vows in Snoqualmie, WA
* Jason & Joy, who married at the Kellogg Grange Hall in Marysville, WA
* Marina & Rafael, who took a drive from their Sea-Tac home, to get married at my home here in Marysville, WA

Having Your Reception Dinner Before Your Ceremony

2009-05-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

I worked with Jasmine & Nate on their wedding last Friday. This Burlington wedding couple selected "A Country Location" in Smokey Point as their wedding and reception venue. When I first met with them during our planning session, they mentioned a unique idea for their special day -- they were planning on hosting their reception dinner before their ceremony. In all of the ceremonies I've performed (and I'm tipping the scales at 220 couples to date) this was a first!

There were a few different reasons that they shared with me for why they chose this layout. The first was the number of hours that they had their venue for. Being a budget conscious couple they scheduled their event on an off-peak wedding day, which is a great tip. Second, they took into account the time of day and wanting to give everyone the opportunity to eat and be comfortable before the ceremony including themeselves. Their celebration was early in the evening on a Friday. Many people had come from work and it being around most people's dinner time made it a decision that was courteous to their guests. Besides, who wants to hear guests complaining about how hungry they are or that infamous question......"When do we get to eat??!!"

Jasmine and Nate also wore different outfits to their reception dinner. They saved their wedding clothing for the ceremony. Jasmine, wearing a cute black with red polka dots dress, and Nate, who was casual in his dress shirt, slacks and a tie, had a chance to mingle with friends and family and still stunn their guests with their transformation into the wedding dress and tuxedo after dinner.

Many couples don't have the chance to visit with their guests during their reception. Having the chance to do this pre-ceremony is a great way to thank your guests for coming and actually interacting with those who are attending your special day.

Overall, this unique idea is a great one to consider when planning your own celebration. Kudos to Jasmine & Nate!

How To Be A Smart & Saavy Bride, Part 5

2009-04-16T20:44:00.001-07:00

Reception & Ceremony

Here is the last segment of "How To Be A Smart & Saavy Bride:

* Talk to your favorite restaurant to see how much it would cost to rent a private room or even the whole place. This is an option that works best during non-peak hours, as the restaurant might not want to lose their busy weekend crowd.
* Avoid planning your event during typically busy times like June or around
Valentine’s Day. During the “off season", many places will work with you on the price.
* Earn frequent flyer miles for your honeymoon by paying wedding costs with a credit card. Just make sure to pay the balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
* Find one location for your ceremony and reception to avoid having to provide transportation between venues.
* Skip the champagne and let guests toast with what they are already drinking.
* Reduce the length of your reception, and don't announce a last call for drinks.
* Book in advance since last minute bookings are usually more expensive due to the extra work involved to coordinate everything.
* Hire a student quartet to play during your ceremony or cocktail hour. Check with local colleges and universities.
* For inexpensive wedding favors, bake cookies or make your own sachets filled with Jordan almonds.
* Using an online budget tracker to keep your wedding finances in order and help control overspending.
* It costs merchants an average of 2% (or more) to process a credit card transaction so pay cash for all or part of the more expensive components of the wedding and ask for a cash discount.

How To Be A Smart & Saavy Bride, Part 4

2009-04-16T20:37:00.000-07:00

Cake!!

*Buy a smaller decorated cake for wedding photos, and have a plain sheet cake in the kitchen to serve guests. On average, twenty percent of guests don’t eat wedding cake.
*Choosing butter cream or cream cheese instead of expensive fondant is another way to save money on your cake.
Tiffani's tip: Many people are trying their talents by attending classes on how to make professional cakes. Ask family members and friends if they've attended classes like this -- maybe they'd be a great candidate to supply your cake!

How To Be A Smart & Saavy Bride, part 3

2009-04-16T20:29:00.000-07:00

Flowers

* Having flowers flown in will raise your costs so only use only in season and readily available flowers.
* To get the best prices, order your flowers from an online wholesaler. Keep in mind, however, that you will be responsible for all of the preparation, trimming and storing them, as well as arranging the flowers the day of the wedding.
Tiffani's tip: Consider visiting your local farmer's market the day of the wedding to pick out large arrangements of flowers at an economically-friendly price!

How To Be A Smart & Saavy Bride, part 2

2009-04-16T20:24:00.000-07:00

Invitations
* Save postage and additional paper cost on your wedding invitations by forgoing the inner envelope reply card and asking guests to reply online or by the telephone.
Avoid oversized or bulky invitations since this greatly increases your postage costs.
* Skip ordering the reception cards, have the reception information printed on the bottom of the invitation.
* Instead of paying extra for your invitations to arrive assembled, buy a few bottles of wine, gather friends and have an invitation assembly party! (Just don’t spill the wine on your invites by accident.)

Tiffani's tip: Use scrapbooking material such as stickers, ribbons, and other goodies to create your own invitations! This is a great idea if you are looking at a smaller guest list. Each card is unique, just like you. :)

The Smart & Saavy Bride, part 1

2009-04-16T20:12:00.000-07:00

Featured above: Edd & Wendy's wedding (Arlington, WA)

I came across a helpful article from a website called BravoBride.com and wanted to share it with my blog readers. I am breaking this article down over five postings. Here's the first of five:

Wedding Attire

* Most of the big bridal shops have huge sales once a year, which are typically held at hotels or other venues like wedding shows. Look in your local paper or ask a wedding planner to find out what time of the year the sales are held.

* Think about looking in unconventional places to buy bridesmaids gowns. Go shopping for them during prom season and after New Years Eve at department stores or online. A bridesmaid's gown doesn't have to come from a bridal shop.

* Many menswear shops will let your groom rent his tuxedo for free or provide a discount if his groomsmen rent their tuxes there.

* Tiffani's tip: Try online auctions & sites including ebay & Craigslist. Most people who are re-selling their items have kept them in very good shape so that they can resell!

Marriage Paperwork

2009-04-04T21:25:00.000-07:00

Many couples ask me about "the paperwork". When do you get it? Do you (meaning me, as the officiant) buy it? How long do we have before we can buy it? These are all very good questions to ask.

The marriage paperwork is a small, yet important, factor on wedding day. I like to say that without the marriage paperwork it's just a nice get together with friends or one big party. With that being said, the marriage paperwork places an important role after the I do's and before the reception gets underway.

A marriage license can be purchased anywhere in Washington state and can be used anywhere in Washington state. You also don't have to be a resident of Washington state to purchase paperwork. Each county has their own rules and regulations that they follow. What is consistent in each county is this: there is a three day wait period before you can use it (WA state law). You also have up to sixty days to be able to use the paperwork, once the waiting period has been met.

Something I offer to each of my couples is the option of having me file the completed paperwork. Regardless of what county you've purchased the paperwork in, I will see to it that the final paperwork is forwarded to the county of origin. This is part of each wedding package I offer. My thought is wouldn't it be nice to be able to go on your honeymoon without the added worry of turning in your paperwork?

For any paperwork purchased in Snohomish county, I hand deliver each document and also offer to pick up any certified copies of the marriage certificate at no additional charge. (The clerks at the Snohomish county auditor's office know me by name!) Just another service I offer to my couples.

I also answer any questions that my couples may have regarding name changes or what to do next, once the paperwork has been filed. For me, it's important to be able to finish my journey with my couples and giving them peace of mind that all i's are dotted and all t's are crossed.

So, rest assured, if I am serving as your officiant I will help you in the process from beginning to end, and sometimes even in the days after wedding day!

"Green" Weddings (or "enviornmentally-friendly")

2009-04-02T15:17:00.000-07:00

I have heard of many couples looking to be more earth-friendly in their celebrations. I came across a great article about how couples can incorporate some very practical ideas while considering the environment in their celebration. Here's a summary:

Ceremony
1. Keep the ceremony small - limit the number of guests.
2. Choose a venue that uses environmentally responsible practices --- pesticide-free lawns, clean energy, etc. Look for a LEED-certified location.
3. Keep the location natural.
4. Choose an indoor venue that has lots of natural light.
5. Keep it local - less travel, and support your local economy!
6. Have the ceremony and reception in the same place or within walking distance of each other.

Reception
1. Set out recycle bins at the reception. Quick and easy -- all you need are a few pieces of paper to label "cans", "plastic" and "paper". Want to take it a step further? Offer an extra can and mark it "compost" for food scraps!
2. Choosing organic or locally grown -- they can provide environmentally-friendly options.
3. Put the "green" theme into your centerpieces. Table decor can take the form of small perenials or baby bushes that can later by planted by your guests. If you are looking for a vessel for the center of your table to hold sea shells or colorful rocks, consider vases made from recycled glass or a bamboo bowl, which are renewable. (There are many options if you want to give small trees, seeds, bulbs or plants.
4. Earth-friendly products and services are growing and often as simple as buying local. Supporting a local artist is much more earth friendly than having cheap trinkets shipped half way around the world. An easy wedding favor idea? Give something organic!

Dresses, Tuxedos & Accessories
1. Choose a vintage or used gown.
2. Choose a dress made from organic cotton, organic silk, hemp or hemp/silk blends.
3. Rent a dress.
4. Choose a dress that can be repurposed later (cocktail dress, etc.).
5. Donate the dress after the wedding.
6. Sell the dress afterwards through eBay or a consignment store.
7. Encourage bridesmaids to choose their own dress that they can reuse later.
8. Rent a tux.
9. Avoid leather shoes.
10. Buy jewelry made from recycled precious metals and stones. And don't forget the possibilities of transforming vintage pieces into radiantly recycled classics.

For more great ideas, visit http://greatgreenwedding.com/blog/.

Happy planning!

Monica & Josh (Everett, WA)

2009-03-04T18:10:00.000-08:00

Monica & Josh are a couple that I served at the beginning of this year. Their wedding venue was at The Everett Events Center (now the Comcast Arena) in the large ballroom.

Monica & Josh were on a budget, as are most of couples today. They utilized many ideas which I consider to be smart & savvy. The first thing that they did was search for a venue which was during the off-season (a big money saving idea!). As a courtesy, the Everett Events Center upgraded their room for no additional cost. They had a larger ballroom available and gave them the option of using that space versus their original space.

Another budget-conscious move was to have the ceremony and the reception in the same location/room. Half of the room was dedicated to the ceremony and seating for their guests. (Later, this area would be converted to the dance floor.) The other half of the room had tables set for the reception that followed.

Finally, this couple stuck with a reasonable guest list. Many times, couples feel as though they need to have lengthy guest lists. Before you know it, the guest list is teetering past the 200 mark. My saying is that when you're planning a wedding you deal with both family politics and wedding politics. Feelings can be hurt. But, as with most things in life, be reasonable. Many couples are finding that they are also financing their own celebrations. A majority of the budget for a wedding goes towards food and beverage. With this being said, a reception with 100 people can really tap into your financial reservoir.

Overall, keep in mind that this day is all about you and your fiancee and the love you share. Have fun and make memories you'll smile back on in the years to come!

The Manor in Everett, WA

2009-03-04T17:38:00.000-08:00

Here's a picture of me at The Manor's open house back in January of this year. Heather, events coordinator at The Manor, had invited a select group of wedding vendors to attend this four hour event. I highly recommend checking if your wedding venue hosts any of these events. It's a great way to "see" how the venue is set up and the live action.

At The Manor's open house, there was an array of vendors, from dj's to live music to bridal boutiques and, of course, a few wedding officiants. The main chef of The Manor (also a previous groom of mine that I had married off in 2008!) had different samplings of their menu to try. There were also accessories for your reception, including vendors who supply chair covers, party favors and cakes.

Money Saving Wedding Idea #1 -- Venue Ideas

2009-02-07T19:56:00.000-08:00

Pictured: Jason & Robyn in his parents' backyard (Tulalip, WA)

So where will you decide to hold your ceremony and reception without blowing a good portion of your budget? Many couples are turning to more cost effective venues.

Have you considered asking a relative or close friend to hold your ceremony and/or your reception at their home, say, in their backyard? Or, do you have family members who belong to a club or have a membership somewhere that can be rented at a reduced cost? Better yet, what sites do your city Parks & Recreation department have available? All of these are ideas that can be utilized when searching for a site to hold your celebration at.

Let's look at the possibility of holding your ceremony at your parents' home, another family member or close friend's. For the cost of landscaping, a backyard can be transformed to create a great wedding venue. You'd be suprised how sometimes all it takes a homeowner is a reason to get the yard in tip-top shape! Do you have a green thumb or is your fiance good with yard tools? Offer to do the work yourselves. Who wouldn't resist the offer of free labor??

Thinking of a gift idea to thank the host of your celebration? Consider a few options. How about a new outdoor grill? What about patio furniture that has been talked about? Or, a weekend away for the hosts to enjoy. These ideas might sound pricy but consider that a thank you gift of a few hundred dollars is an inexpensive alternative to putting down hundreds of dollars on a rented space.

Let's talk about another option; clubs. I can't tell you how many times I've had couples who have utilized the membership benefits of a family member or friend to get a reduced cost on their venue. Does Dad have a membership to a country club? Are Grandma & Grandpa long-time Eagle members? How about your favorite Uncle Bill and his membership at the sailing club?

Do you live in an apartment complex? (Stay with me on this one......) Many apartment communities have a rec room or cabana that is available to their tenants, with advance notice, AT NO COST. Yes, you read it right! Often times these spaces also have restrooms for your guests, small kitchenettes to prepare food for the reception afterwards nevermind furniture and media centers. These are just a few examples of places that I have performed weddings at. Ask around and see what your options are.

Ok, so what city do you live in? Have you checked with your city's parks & rec department for venues available for rent? Many times, if you are living within the city limits, the parks & rec department will offer a discount on their facility rentals. For example, Everett's Parks & Rec has such facilities as Legion Hall, Floral Hall at Forest Park and Evergreen Arboretum. Kirkland as their famous pavillion. Most cities post their rental rates on their websites. Don't forget the many parks that are found tucked away in the many counties throughout Washington state. All you have to do is take a look!

Keep in mind that there are beautiful and affordable options for you. I have pictures of some of these sites on my website at www.upbeatweddingofficiant.com

Happy hunting!

Article: Is it R.I.P. for the RSVP? What to do when guests don't reply to invitations

2009-01-02T03:20:00.000-08:00

Is it R.I.P. for the RSVP? What to do when guests don't reply to invitations
By Jesse Tarbert, Seattle Times staff reporter

If you're hosting a party:

• RSVP is an abbreviation for the French phrase "Repondez s'il vous plait," which means "please reply" (You shouldn't write "Please RSVP").

• If you want your guests to respond to your invitation, write "RSVP" at the bottom of the invitation, on the left side.

• To give your guests time to respond, send your invitations at least two weeks before the party; but no earlier than four weeks — the invitations might get lost.

• If the event is further away than that, send a "save the date" or "hold this date" card to keep your guests from making other plans — no RSVP required. Then, two to four weeks before the event, mail your invitations.

• For kids' parties, you should mail the invitations or hand-deliver them to the guests' parents. If you leave it up to the kids, you can't be sure the invitations are received.

• If you're worried your guests won't know what "RSVP" means, it's acceptable to use an English equivalent, such as "the favour of an answer is requested," or less formally "please reply."

• If you want people to respond by phone, or to an address different from the one on the printed elsewhere on the invitation, put the number or the address under "RSVP to."

• You can also add a cut-off date after "RSVP by" if you want to give your guests a little extra prodding.

• Include an RSVP card and envelope if you want to make it even easier for your guests.

• If you're hosting a large party, you can add "Regrets only" after "RSVP"; but beware, these two words can make your guest list even less reliable.

• A week before the party (or after your cut-off date), feel free to call people who haven't responded and ask if they received the invitation and if they plan to attend.

If you get an invitation:
• "Ideally, people should reply within one week," says etiquette expert Deborah King.

• If you can't attend, King suggests either of these polite excuses: "I'm going to be out of town" or "I will be unable to attend due to a prior engagement."

• If you have to change plans, even at the last minute, call the host.

Theresa Fazekas learned the hard way.

First the baby shower when she expected 30 guests, but 44 showed up. "It's been four years and I'm still holding a grudge," she laughs. Then came the Christmas tea party last year, when she expected 13 guests, but had only a dozen place settings. She bought an extra set, only to have one guest skip it. And then, this past summer, the wedding shower where Fazekas planned to serve elegant boxed lunches. One guest wanted to bring her two sisters, who weren't on the guest list. A gracious hostess, Fazekas said yes and prepared the extra meals (at considerable expense). The woman and her sisters no-showed.

Fazekas enjoys entertaining. She gives two or three holiday parties each December and her North Tacoma home has been the scene of many dinner parties. But she's added an extra step to her party routine. She makes the guest list, sends the invitations, plans the menu and decorations — then she gets on the phone to people who haven't RSVPed.

"I call people and ask them if they're coming," she said. Local etiquette instructor Dawn DeGroot estimates that only 50 percent of invitations bearing the letters RSVP are actually answered these days.

DeGroot — she likes to be called Mrs. DeGroot — runs Wallingford Charm School where she teaches manners to children, teens and the occasional university business class. he has a message for invitees who don't RSVP: "Come on! Wake up! Answer your mail!" she says, the exasperation from countless unanswered invitations audible in her voice. "It's just a courtesy that is so necessary," she explains. "It's really important to the person giving the party."

She acknowledges that people's lives are busy, and that invitations can get buried as the mail piles up. But that's no excuse for failing to RSVP. "Put that invitation right by the phone so that you can remember to do it," she says.

The worst offenders

Even worse than people who don't RSVP at all, DeGroot says, are those who RSVP to say they are coming, but then don't show up. And how about guests who don't RSVP, but then show up anyway? For parties that feature informal dining, such as buffets, DeGroot recommends preparing 25 percent more food, just in case unanticipated guests arrive.

Deborah King runs Final Touch Finishing School, which offers etiquette classes in Seattle, Dallas and around the country. If the meal is informal, King suggests dealing graciously with unannounced guests. "Go ahead and have them come in and be a part of the event," she says. But if it's a formal sit-down meal and you haven't had an RSVP from that guest, let them know that you won't be able to accommodate them. "I know that may sound harsh," she says. "But actually the person that is being rude is the person that didn't RSVP." She adds, laughing: "You might tell them they look great and suggest a nice restaurant for dinner."

A growing problem

King said the troubles with RSVPs are only getting worse. "It is very sadly the truth," she says. Like DeGroot, King estimates the average rate of response to be about 50 percent. Because "many people don't know what RSVP means," King advocates writing "Please reply by," followed by a date. After the reply-by date has passed, King suggests calling the guests who haven't replied.

King and DeGroot both see the current decline in etiquette as a legacy of cultural changes during the 1960s and 1970s. But arbiters of etiquette, it seems, have always been engaged in a rear-guard battle against the unmannered.

The opening sentence of the 1929 edition of "Vogue's Book of Etiquette," for example, reads: "In a day when manners are said to be in less evidence than ever they were, one might naturally ask why a new book of etiquette need be written. ... "
And the use of RSVP itself was seen as a sign of decline. In a chapter about invitations and entertaining, the editors of Vogue write: "The letters R.S.V.P. are not necessary between good-mannered people. It is understood that one answers a dinner invitation and, in general, any invitations that 'request the pleasure.' "

A few pages later, they write: "All well-brought up people know, as we have said, that a request is something to which a reply is expected."

Gradual decline of RSVPs

During the Golden Age of etiquette, invitations were hand-delivered, and replies were a matter of course. The first step toward our present level of decay, apparently, came during the 19th century, when hostesses began entrusting invitations to the postal service. Later, even more informality arrived with the popularization of the telephone. Now a new medium has etiquette experts arching their eyebrows.

Noting the growing popularity of e-mail invitations and online services such as Evite, DeGroot says: "It sort of puts me off a little bit, but I understand that we're in a new time."

According to spokeswoman Kristen Wareham, Evite has about 5 million registered users who use the site (www.evite.com) to send invitations for a variety of events. Most of the users are young. According to company data, half are between the ages of 25 and 34, and only 12 percent are older than 45. When would-be guests receive an Evite, they are presented with a reply box, where they can check either "Yes," "No," or an option that is sure to make etiquette experts shudder: "Maybe." Invitees can also post comments and indicate how many guests they will bring. Meanwhile, hosts can monitor the responses, and even tell if someone has viewed the invitation without responding.

Despite the informality of web-based invitations, the ease with which guests can respond to an Evite might suggest, perhaps, a new era for RSVPing. According to Wareham, Evite users send about 8 million invitations per month. The average response rate is 63 percent, considerably higher than the 50 percent rate for paper invitations estimated by DeGroot and King.

Jennifer Gouine used Evite to organize a Halloween cocktail party that she hosted in her University District apartment. It was her first time using Evite for one of her own parties. She planned to serve finger foods and drinks, so it was important to know how many guests would attend. She invited 12, and all but three replied, she says. Evite's features allowed her to see which guests weren't responding, and she was able to nail them down. If she were to host a more formal party, she says, she might use written invitations, but Evite is convenient. "It's just so easy."

Copyright © 2003 The Seattle Times Company

Wedding Ettiquette From An Author's Perspective (Article)

2009-01-02T03:04:00.000-08:00

Don’t Be Rude: Part IV, Weddings

Continuing with her series on etiquette, Margaret Berry explains why you can’t ask your wedding guests to pay for your mortgage, or their own drinks.

I’m about to outline some of the more common wedding etiquette missteps. Before I do I should tell you that by the time you read this, I will have been to five weddings this season. Please note that none of my dear friends have committed any of the social blunders I’m about to mention. If they did do anything wrong, I was far too overcome with joy to notice. However, I’m quite sure they didn’t, because they’re perfect.

Now for the rest of you.

Engagement
I’m not sure how things got turned around, but the correct way to ask for someone’s hand in marriage is to first ask your beloved, and then to ask for a parental blessing. Asking her parents beforehand makes it much more embarrassing if she turns you down, it’s also an uncomfortable way to find out that they never really liked you.

If luck is on your side, the champagne will flow freely during your engagement. When friends raise their glasses you and your affianced should smile brightly and keep your hands folded in your laps. Drinking to oneself is immodest; no matter how much you like champagne.

If you decide he’s not for you, decency demands that you return the engagement ring. If you find out he’s been having an affair with his secretary, self-respect demands that you return the engagement ring, albeit in a more spirited manner. If your wedding is canceled, return any gifts as well.

When choosing attendants, remember that they don’t need to line up symmetrically. If one of you has more friends, so be it. Better to upset the photographer than your old dorm mate.

Invitations
Most couples decide they want a sumptuous sit-down dinner and then cut their guest list until it bleeds. These people are going about things backward. Your guest list should determine the scale of your event instead of the other way around. Trim the decorating budget and the seven-course menu. An abundance of friends is much more charming than an abundance of flowers.

Once you have a basic list, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you must invite both halves of a socially recognized couple. Those who are married, engaged, or living together count as social units. You may not have the company of one without the other, even if this particular other is a jerk. Second, you get to decide whether you want to invite children. Guests who express annoyance that their children aren’t included are the same ones who will let them scream through the ceremony.

There’s a lot of room for error with invitations. It’s helpful to think of them as petite social landmines with quaint wax seals. Send them four to six weeks out.

A few things you shouldn’t include in the envelopes:

The tissues that come with engraved invitations. They’re meant to protect the ink from smudging before the invitations are delivered to you. Including them in the envelope is rather like wearing a plastic poncho over your dress so as not to ruin it for a really special occasion.

Registry cards. Gifts should always seem to come as a pleasant surprise. This is what is known as a ‘polite fiction,’ emphasis on polite. You can tell people where you’ve registered, but only if they’ve asked, and only if you can manage to dim that spark in your eye.

RSVP cards. These imply that your guests wouldn’t otherwise take the time to respond. Unfortunately, the same cretins who don’t respond to wedding invitations won’t bother to mail back your RSVP cards. Etiquette permits you to beat these people senseless.

There are a few guidelines for invitees as well.
You don’t get to bring a guest unless you’re specifically invited to do so. You also don’t get to complain about not being invited to do so. It’s time you learned to mingle and socialize like a big kid. If your spouse or significant other can’t make it, you may not bring a friend in his or her place (much as you may not exchange the invitations for the price of your dinner and do something more fun with the money).

Attire
I know you think black bridesmaid dresses look sharp, and you’re having an evening wedding anyway, and you’re trying to choose a dress they’ll wear again. The answer is still no. In American culture, black is associated with mourning and loss, two emotions you’re not trying to inspire in anyone except his ex-girlfriend.

Though attendants on either side can be any sex, they should still dress to suit their gender. This means if your bridesmaids are wearing blue dresses the groom’s female attendants should wear blue dresses as well. Making the groom’s female attendants dress in novelty tuxedos is awful unless you have a tap routine planned for the recessional.

Either the event is formal, or it’s not. The bridal party’s attire should reflect the same level of formality as that of the guests. It makes no sense to have the guests in suits and the groom in a tuxedo. It makes even less sense to have the groomsmen in black tie and the groom in white tie.

Female guests shouldn’t wear white, lest they look as though they’re competing with the bride. Neither should they wear black, unless they’re mourning for her.

Ceremony
As mentioned earlier, it is untrue that all of the bridal attendants must be women and that everyone on the groom’s side must be a man. If the groom has a sister, she should stand on his side. If the bride has known Tommy since she was three, why would he stand next to the groom?

The custom of giving away the bride should be altered to suit your particular situation. If your mother raised you, she should do the honors. If a grandparent raised you, it would be sweet to ask him or her to accompany you.

Have a receiving line after the ceremony. It’s the only way to guarantee that every guest is introduced to all of your family and attendants, and the only way to ensure that you’ll have a chance to speak with sweet Aunt Thelma who traveled all the way from Florida. It’s also the best way to catch sneaky guests who skip the ceremony and show up for the food.

Your guests’ comfort takes precedence over your scrapbook. Don’t delay your arrival at the reception by scheduling a photo session just after the ceremony. If you must have a few post-ceremony photos, keep the shoot duration to less than 20 minutes.

Reception
Look at how embarrassed the bride is! How hilarious to see the groom’s head up her skirt, removing the garter with his teeth. Isn’t it sweet how she blushes at this reenactment of marital consummation? No, it’s vulgar. Cut it out. If you’re going to toss a garter, at least remove it in private.

Technically—technically—you’re supposed to leave your wedding before your guests do. The bride should change into a smart little traveling suit so everyone can pelt the happy couple with rice and then go home to get some sleep. This never happens. Instead, older guests hang on as long as they can, halfheartedly toss a palm full of rice at the couple, who are busy shimmying on the dance floor, and retreat to the quiet of their hotel rooms.

If you can’t afford alcohol, don’t make your guests pay for it. Provide what refreshment you can afford, and forget the cash bar. And, you, guests: The hosts are in charge of the leftovers. If you decide that it’s a shame to let so much food go to waste, you may be informed coldly (as you’re filling makeshift doggie bags) that the bride and groom have arranged for the extra food to be donated to a homeless shelter.

Gifts
Guests who receive invitations to weddings that they won’t be able to attend are not obligated to send a gift, but they should send a congratulatory note. The same is true of wedding announcements.

Gifts are properly sent to the couple’s home before the wedding or up to one year afterward. This way, the newlyweds needn’t worry about renting a truck to cart the gifts home, and you have a year to make sure that the marriage will take. This is a handy thing to know.

The horrible idea that the price of one’s wedding gift should roughly equate to what the bride and groom spent on your dinner is untrue, but it continues to be propagated by people who spend too much on their weddings. On the other hand, a guest’s transportation to the wedding doesn’t count as a gift to the couple. So cough up that toaster, buddy.

Also false is the notion that guests must choose a gift from the couple’s registry. While registries are helpful for those who don’t know the couple’s tastes, it is a compliment if a guest takes the time to pick something more personal—even if that something is yet another crystal flower vase.

Registries are the limit of how much a couple may direct gift giving. You may not indicate that you would prefer cash, request donations to your mortgage fund, take up a honeymoon collection, or even mention that you’d rather the money go to charity. Any attempt to direct generosity looks greedy. Coincidentally, it also makes guests feel less generous.

After the bride and groom have opened a gift, they have about three minutes to write a thank-you note. That includes the time it takes to cackle over the crocheted toilet-paper cozy with Barbie Doll topper. There’s no etiquette rule specifying that the bride must write all of the thank-you notes. Gentlemen, take up your pens.

While we’re on the subject, a few things that don’t count as proper gratitude: verbal thanks, postcards from the honeymoon, and those terrible preprinted cards that quack, ‘Your generosity is appreciated.’

Happily Ever After
It doesn’t matter who is paying the bills—weddings are family affairs. So if you want a nudist ceremony, you might want to run that by your parents first so they can opt out. And if Uncle Murf dies on the day of the wedding, you can go ahead with your solemn ceremony, but you should cancel the reception out of respect.

Like any good party or celebration, the objective of your wedding reception is to cater to guests’ needs and make sure that everyone is having a good time. Couples who run around screeching, ‘It’s our special day!’ ultimately deserve one another.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
TMN Contributing Writer Margaret Mason’s first book No One Cares What You Had for Lunch: 100 Ideas for Your Blog comes out this month. You’ll also find her on her personal site Mighty Girl and her award-winning shopping blog Mighty Goods.
Also by Margaret Berry
The Last-Minute Mother's Day Gift Guide (How To)
Valentine’s Gift Guide (Opinions)
Twenty Gifts That Go Easy on Your Budget (Opinions)

Stan & Samantha (Lynnwood, WA)

2008-12-24T03:01:00.000-08:00

I've said this time and time again, each couple has their own story and memories. Stan and Samantha (also known as Sam) are no exception!

It seems like the talk of the town has been our record breaking snow fall. Stan and Sam married just this last Sunday, December 21st amidst the snow. You couldn't tell from the smiles on their faces how cold it really was outside or how much snow was accumulating on the ground because inside it was warm! The excitement on wedding day, the enthusiasm that this couple has, the friendly family and friends in attendance and of course the Christmas trees and decorations that lined the halls also attributed to this feeling.

Stan and Sam are such a wonderful couple -- you can't help but smile when you're around them! All throughout the day, family members and their friends shared with me how happy they were that "this day is here!" and "how they are just so right for each other" as well as personal stories that I had the chance to hear about. And you know, they were so right!

The ceremony and reception were held at the Lynnwood Convention Center (www.lynnwoodcc.com). The staff there was fantastic and quick to be of assistance. I was greeted with Stan & Sam's names on the reader board outside which was fun! It was easy to access from the freeway and parking was ample. Another great idea to consider for a great wedding venue.

Party Favor Idea #1: Custom Fortune Cookies

2008-12-24T03:00:00.000-08:00

My job as an officiant sometimes crosses over into other duties, such as offering suggestions to couples who come to me with questions and in search of ideas. I am asked if I know of different vendors such as a caterer, a musician or items to decorate or feature at their reception. Often, people assume that as an officiant, I attend a lot of receptions. This isn't true, much to popular belief. On occasion, an invite is extended to me to stay to enjoy a meal with the bride and groom's family and friends.

I worked with two different couples this summer, who I found out after they had booked me, knew each other. Tyler & Ashley of Edmonds, WA and Lisa & Bill of Kingston, WA were planning on having their wedding in the same location.....in Tyler & Lisa's grandmother's backyard. (I found out that Tyler and Lisa were cousins -- small world!) An invite was extended to me to stay for both receptions.

Tyler and Ashley married in August; Lisa & Bill in September just a few weeks later. Both sets of couples had these great party favors for their guests -- made to order, custom fortune cookies by Linda & Mike's Fortune Cookies! These are not your typcial, small, run-of-the-mill fortune cookies that you get at your local Chinese food restaurant. These yummy cookies are a larger, more decorative version complete with a message of your choice found inside each cookie.

I took home a business card to find more information about these unique party favors. I found that they are very affordable and are high quality little goodies. Here's their website if you'd like to check them out for your celebration:

www.LMfortunecookies.com

"Good Luck!"

~ Rev. Tiffani

Vendor Review: Bagpiper Don

2008-12-24T02:57:00.000-08:00

Don Scoby (also known as Bagpiper Don) is a very talented musician. He plays the Highland Bagpipes and is an up and coming Seattle star!

I first met Don about a year ago. I've always been a fan of bagpipes and through Don, I've been able to learn that the term "bagpipes" is a very loose term. Did you know that there are all different types? I didn't! Don also is an instructor, so if you are interested in learning more or have always visualized yourself playing and tooting your horn look no further!

I've listened to Don's music on his myspace page (http://www.myspace.com/bagpiperdon). I have a few personal favorites, including "Blackbird Air-reel", "Battle of Waterloo", and my #1 pick is "Remi Rawks CPNW"! The sounds are so beautiful; the music makes me envision green pastures, Celtic women and of course, the infamous kilt. Speaking of kilts, Don will show up to your event in full garb. It's great!

Personality-wise, Don is warm, friendly and professional. Standing 6'4" he carries into a room a strong presence. He's confident in what he does without being cocky. He's very easy to talk with as well as easy to work with. Don is open to answering any questions you might have and, from experience, no question is a bad question.

I'm far from a music critic and my words can't begin to describe the talent that this man has.
Don has a wealth of information on his website; please visit him at http://www.bagpiperdon.com to listen to samples of his work.

John & Michelle Whelan

2008-10-07T01:14:00.001-07:00

John and Michelle are a couple that I had the privilege of working with, and bringing into marriage, on Saturday, 10-4-08. Their ceremony was held at Golden Gardens Bath House in Seattle. This is a terrific venue with a wonderful view of Shilshole Bay!

When I arrived onsite for my 6pm check in, I was greeted by the groom, John. Since their ceremony start time was based around the scheduled sunset of 642pm, I didn't think much of it when the sun was setting through the windows of the bath house and there were no lights on. John had asked me if my voice was strong and if I would be able to perform their ceremony without the help of a microphone. Since the acoustics of the building are fabulous and my voice being able to carry to the ears of sixty-five to seventy-five guests, I didn't see any problems. It wasn't until he mentioned the power being out that I realized the nature of his question.

After dismissing myself with John, I went to find John's bride, Michelle. She was in a side room with her bridal attendants and some other close friends. She looked beautiful! She explained to me what I had already heard from her husband-to-be and I quickly assured her that things would all work out and that she'd have her sunset!

Their ceremony start time of 630pm came and I helped get the bridal party in place. Lined up in the hallway, their dj was able to gather enough battery power on his laptop to play their processional song -- Louis Armstrong's "A Kiss To Build A Dream On". The ceremony was underway!

Michelle and John's ceremony went fabulous! When Michelle made her procession to the ceremony site, both she and her husband were struck with emotion during the first few minutes of their ceremony. I whispered to Michelle to every once in a while to look over my shoulder at her beautiful sunset that shone through the windows of their site. There was laughter from their guests and myself when Michelle jumped up and down, laughing with her famous laugh (as her husband told me, "echos off of buildings") when John spoke his "I do" during the vows. The tenderness that Michelle showed during the ceremony when she wiped her husband's tears from his face was something that their guests witnessed and smiled at during different points of their celebration.

Many might have reacted at the discovery of no power for their wedding and reception site. Michelle and John were anything but! Despite the music that couldn't be ran or the food that wasn't ready to be served the night was a success. The laughter and the talking of their family and friends made it difficult to focus on the fact that they were standing in a room with candlelight as their source of light. This couple definitely showed grace under fire. I can only hope for couples in the future that are just as wonderful.

Congratulations again, Mr & Mrs Whelan!

When "Should" You Hire Your Officiant?

2008-10-07T01:01:00.000-07:00

This is a question that I often am asked, either in an email, on the phone or during a consultation with a couple. From the couples that I've met and had the opportunity to serve, I've been hired months in advance to just short notice. I've been told that some wedding planning books suggest waiting only a month or two before your ceremony!
So, what's my take on it, you ask? I feel that it's always best to leave yourself enough time to be able to have a choice of *who* you'd like to have officiate your ceremony. Does anyone really like to be "stuck" with the "leftovers"? I think we can all agree that it's nice to have a choice. Officiants are as different as wedding venues and wedding dresses -- we all have different views, different belief systems and different ways that we work with couples. Some of us custom-make ceremonies while other allow you to choose from pre-created ceremonies. Some of us are more hands-on than others; consultations may be offered in person or by phone or even email while others will meet a couple for the first time at the rehearsal or wedding day.
Overall, I encourage my couples to find an officiant that is a good "match" for their personalities and their beliefs. Have some ideas written out that you, as a couple, have complied together and then begin your search. When looking for an officiant, keep in mind:
* What does the officiant's services include?
* What is the officiant's belief system? Will any of his/her beliefs interfere with your beliefs or wants for your ceremony?
* How accessible will the officiant be to you? Are you limited to how many times you can meet or call?
* How well does the officiant interact with you and your fiance? How much time has an officiant invested in the initial contact with you?
* How up front is the officiant with his/her fees? Are there any "hidden fees" or are things such as travel fee(s), long distance phone charges, etc are presented up front, either during your initial consult or on their website? Is the officiant's fee average or more expensive than other officiants? If more than, what is the officiant's reasoning?<

These are a good set of questions to help you get going as you begin your early stages of searching for an officiant. Please keep in mind that there is the right match for you out there -- don't be afraid to go out and get the one that you want!

(For more information on her services or to contact Tiffani, please visit her website at http://www.upbeatweddingofficiant.com)

Welcome!

2008-08-27T00:45:00.001-07:00

I have had many couples (and wedding professionals that I have had the privilege of working with) who have asked me if I had a blog. I do have a blog on my website, www.upbeatweddingofficiant.com and have found this great blog site as well.

If you are an engaged couple looking for an officiant who will give you a ceremony that reflects your love, your relationship and what is important to the two of you as a couple let's chat!