Let Us Educate You Before You Hire Entertainment

Ray Martinez from Ray Mar Productions... offers this friendly advice before choosing your wedding entertainment.

Your wedding day, what a special and happy day this should be. No expense should be spared to make it one you will remember fondly with each successive anniversary. If corners must be cut however, entertainment is not the area to compromise.
THE LIFE OF THE PARTY: Music and the performance of a professional Master of Ceremonies is the driving force and the life of the party, and it is very crucial and helpful to know what to expect from your DJ/Entertainer, and to be able to provide the services you desire.
PLAN WELL AHEAD: If at all possible start looking at least a year or more in advance of your event. The most popular DJ/Entertainers schedule their event bookings far in advance with the months of May through October, and December booking the earliest.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION: Ask the DJ/Entertainer about meeting with him or her at the office or your home, or better yet at the event venue to get a feeling of where they will set up. If consultations cannot be arranged, ask for brochures or website pricing information, referrals, and venues they have performed. A DVD might also be available but because of the lower sound quality, due to editing, they are often not an adequate measure by which to judge.
THE IMPORTANCE OF MUSIC REPERTOIRE: Check the library of music of the particular company. The better companies will have a wider selection of music to serve all ages, ranging from kids to grandparents. Music should be kept at a level comfortable to speak over dinner, and do not hesitate to ask the DJ/Entertainer to drop the level a few decibels.
INFORMATION SHEET: This information sheet/questionnaire is a great opportunity to make any specific requests to the DJ/Entertainer, such as your first dance song, father daughter dance, the names of the wedding party, parents and grandparents to be introduced, as well as agreed upon timing for the grand entrance, toast, cake cutting, and money dance. In order for the DJ/Entertainer to utilize your completed information sheet, it should be returned at least three weeks prior to the event. Don’t forget to put the DJ/Entertainer in touch with the banquet manager to begin important communication to insure the smoothness of your event.
CEREMONY/RECEPTION LOCATION: If the ceremony and reception are at different locations, make sure someone is at the venue to let the DJ/Entertainer in before the party begins. Also regarding separate locations, consult with your DJ/Entertainer if a second system might be available for rental at the second venue for ceremonies. Many venues do not provide this service. If the reception is at the same place as the cocktail hour, it is advisable to hire a DJ/Entertainer to play music during the cocktail hour, or ask him to set up early.
THE BOTTOM LINE: Price is contingent on the popularity of the DJ/Entertainer, traveling required and duration of the party. Three hours is standard and usually the minimum with anything above that, it is considered overtime. In Southern California, the average price range for a full time qualified professional DJ/Entertainer is about $1,400.00 -$2,500.00. Overtime is anywhere from $250.00-350.00 per hour. Weekend or part time DJs will run you about $600.00 - $700.00. If they are charging such a low price you may start asking yourself as to what experience they have and what they offer in comparison to the qualified pros. Upon agreeing on the booking arrangements, you should sign a written booking agreement and return it with an initial payment, usually about 50%, unless otherwise stipulated. Make sure you know what services are to be performed as agreed between you and the DJ/Entertainer. Most entertainment companies will have an additional charge for wedding ceremony and/or cocktail hour to be included, as well as venues that have a flight of stairs and no elevator. It is also an industry standard to include a 15% gratuity. The hallmark of these professionals usually include a custom console, multi-channel mixing board, a matching pair of CD players, or digital computerized system, headset, power amp, two professional speaker enclosures (powered or non-powered) and a music library in road worth cases. For many DJ’s the use of a wireless microphone is a must for remote toasts, organizing and emceeing key events as well as participation dances.
HAVE A GREAT TIME: On your special day, now is the time to enjoy yourself. It is in your best interest to trust all the professionals you have hired. Your DJ/Entertainer is there to coordinate between all vendor services, both in person and on the microphone. We hope this information has been helpful to you. It has been compiled to help educate you so that you may have the wedding you have always dreamed of.

Ray is also weighing in on Jan 10th... Are you? Come join us on the 10th for thee biggest loser challenge and win a wedding dress, bridal portrait photo shoot, and bouquet.

Thee Biggest Loser Weight Loss Contest

What is your #1 New Year's Resolution?

Thee Wedding Warehouse, along with with Déjà Vu Med Spa and LifeTime Fitness are hosting “Thee Biggest Loser” weight loss contest.

Every girl wants to look her best on her wedding day. Join us for a 12 week bridal boot camp! Winner receives a FREE wedding dress in her dream size courtesy of Molina Bridal, a bridal portrait photo shoot courtesy of Ventola Photography, and a bridal bouquet custom made by EnDearing Floral Design. First place prize package valued at $2500, 2nd and 3rd places prizes also given.

Sign up January 2 – 10, 2009. First weigh in January 10, weekly weigh-ins required until contest ends. There is no charge to enter the contest.

Thee Wedding Warehouse, located at 500 N Bullard, Suite #C29 in Goodyear, AZ offers an innovative way of planning any event. This 2,600sf indoor venue is Arizona’s first and only all inclusive bridal and event store, showcasing the Valley’s best vendors, all under one roof.

Contact:

Kathy Baggett, 623-536-0995
Email: info@theeweddingwarehouse.com
http://www.theeweddingwarehouse.com/

TIPS ON HIRING A VIDEOGRAPHER....

TIPS ON HIRING A VIDEOGRAPHER....

1. View samples of completed wedding DVD's. Notice the picture quality - is it shaky or unclear? Professional videographers use high quality cameras, tripods, lighting and sound equipment.
2. Ask how many cameras are used in filming. One camera will provide only one angle the entire time. This will end up looking "amateurish". Two cameras are very good - the industry standard. Three cameras are even better and will provide simultaneous coverage of the bride,
groom, and the wide angle from the back of the ceremony. This set up is truly lovely and well worth the extra money if available.
3. Verify what is included in the total package price. Good videographers will attach high quality microphones to the groom and officiant (if allowed) during the ceremony. Full editing of the raw film footage should be included as well. Video editing is the work that happens in the studio after
the wedding is over. Any substandard shots, lighting, or sound issues are corrected. And all camera angles are seamlessly compiled to create a beautiful viewing experience. Full editing is crucial to the final look and flow of the video.
4. Know how many hours of filming are included on the wedding day. The ceremony should be fully covered with choices of reception coverage options.
5. Be aware of the filming and editing styles of videographers you interview. How do you want your wedding day captured? Does the videographer believe in a natural unobtrusive style of filming? Or is their style more commanding and loud - like a "Hollywood" movie director? If you
desire your day to be completely captured from beginning to end, make sure the videographer isn't going to cut most scenes out during the editing process. Many videographers produce a DVD full of "wedding day highlight scenes" set to music and then call it a day! Your wedding
video should be a complete record of your special day. If the footage captured is overly manufactured and changed, you will not feel like you are there again every time you watch it. Filming and editing style is very important.
6. Get all details of the package in writing. This is usually called a service agreement or contract. If you feel anything is missing or incomplete, ask for an amended copy until you are satisfied.
7. Listen to your instincts when meeting and talking on the phone or in person. A professional should listen fully to your desires, take time to answer all your questions, and communicate that they understand your wishes and are able to deliver. If you don't have a good feeling,
keep interviewing! Your wedding day is too important to leave up to chance :-) - Royal Sun Productions - Wedding Videography

Royal Sun Productions
Wedding Videography
623-748-3036
http://www.royalsunproductions.com/

Lost Love Ones

HI Everyone! I need to write about something that has been brought to my attention several times in the last few weeks...How to memorialize someone who has passed at your wedding. It is a sad subject but I feel it needs some attention.So,... here's how I feel.

First and foremost, DO NOT leave and empty chair for them !!! This is just an open invitation for tears on your special day. This is a special day for all of your family and it should be a happy day! I am not trying to say that the lost ones are less important but if you leave a chair for them all it does is leave everyone with the feeling that some one important is missing. I mean think about it, you are walking down the aisle and there is a place where a dear friend or family member is NOT sitting! I don't know about you but it makes me sad even thinking about it! I have been telling my clients to come up with other things to include a lost loved one. One way is to put pictures of them at the guest book table. A picture of them smiling and laughing or one at Halloween in a funny costume. If they were in our armed forces ( as so many have been) show your pride with a photo in Uniform. Pictures of when they were little and ones of them with the Bride and Groom or Mom and Dad! That way people will look at the pictures and smile feeling happy as they walk into your big day! Another good idea is to put lots of votive candles out(enough for each couple attending) don't forget the matches on this table, leave a note with the pictures and ask each couple to light a candle for your loved one! This is not only a happy way to say we miss you but it also serves as a beautiful decoration at your reception !! Also you could place a special floral arrangement of their favorite flowers with a picture of them laughing... See, theirs so much you can do and make everyone happy! I hope I have shed some light on a very sad and sometimes heated situation. I am here if any one has questions or wants some other ideas for remembering lost loved ones.

Go crazy

Be sure to take advantage of, or request, an engagement portrait session with your photographer. Not only can it improve your wedding pictures, but you’ll probably have a great time! How can the engagement session improve your wedding photos weeks ahead? If you think about it, your photographer is very comfortable behind the camera; and the average person is not comfortable in front of the camera.

Try to get to know your photographer. Have fun. Be yourself. Go crazy. Let’s face it: those images of brides that you see in magazines do not happen all by themselves. There is a lot of planning and rehearsal that goes into them. And that one photo that you see was probably chosen from hundreds of photos.
So spend more time with your photographer. You’ll see on your wedding day that you feel more comfortable and have more confidence that he or she will capture those special moments that you’ve spent months, even years, thinking about.

Congratulations on your upcoming event!

Kym Ventola
Ventola Photography
http://www.ventolaphotography.com/
http://blog.ventolaphotography.com/



Engagement Portrait by Kym Ventola

Thoughts about hiring a DJ

Here's a few tips for hiring a DJ:

Hire a trained/experienced professional DJ/entertainer. A cool cousin that has an Ipod and some ecclectic tastes in music or your friend who DJs at a club may not be in a position to properly handle the ceremony music, the dinner music, the announcements, wedding traditions and the musical tastes of perhaps 3 generations of people attending the event. By the time you rent the needed speakers and equipment to plug in the Ipod and provide a microphone for the toast, most of the intended savings will be spent.

In addition to the several specific songs such as Bride and Groom first dance, coming down the aisle, the father/daughter dance etc, also provide about 20 songs that indicate your tastes- songs that can be mixed in during the course of the evening as the mood presents itself. No more than about 20- leave some room for your guests to request a song or two and for the DJ to use his or her professional judgement. Provide a DO NOT play list as well.

If hiring a DJ from an entertainment agency, insist on meeting with the DJ that will actually be working at your event.

Is your entertainer insured? Many venues no longer allow vendors who don't carry liability insurance.

Are there contingency plans for equipment failures? A back up soundsystem back at the shop will not be of much value if it takes an hour to get there and another hour to get back to the event.

Use a contract. It should spell out who, what, when, where, and how much.

How much time is required for set up and break down and is that part of the contracted time? A venue may have an event before or after yours and the DJ may be required to load in and out more quickly than is possible for his or her sound and/or lighting rig.

How will they be dressed? Hotels and Golf Clubs tell stories regularly of hobbyist DJs attempting to perform at a formal function in shorts, tanktops and baseball caps worn sideways. ???!??!!

Does your entertainer belong to any professional organization or network? This does not guarantee satisfactory performance but usually is an indicator that they are willing to learn and grow and attend training and other industry functions.

Here's to a great event!

Curtis Whipple
www.curtiswhipple.com
480 634 6127 AZ office
909 758 1969 CA mobile
Member of the American DJ Association
Member of the Wedding and Event Network

Picture from Wigwam Bridal Tour by Kym Ventola

Toilet Paper??

We just got the new Wedding Star book and on page 327, I notice toilet paper. This is what it says:

This novelty toilet paper roll with comical bride and groom is sure to bring a smile. Here is an easy way to add a little fun. Your guests will be amused and amazed with your attention to every detail when they discover... even the toilet paper has a wedding theme? 350 sheets, 2 ply $9.98

Then I just had to laugh. Toilet paper??? Yeah I think no but that's just me and what do I know anyway.

This did however get me thinking about budgets. I think over 95% of brides and grooms don't put enough thought into the budget and budget process. Unless you have done it before 9 times out of 10 you are unsure how to set a budget because you are unsure what things cost. I encourage everyone seek help, look online, buy a good planner. Make a list. Everyone has that one or two things that is very important to them. For one it might be the cake so they allot more of percentage and go with the cake of their dreams. Some its the dress. Or the flowers. Repeat make a list. Make a list of everything that you want then number them on what is most important. If your decorations are the most important upgrade your flowers and your linens and then serve chicken instead of filet mignon. Try trimming unneeded items like pretty toilet paper that may be cute but you could spend that money else where and get more bang for your buck. Pick an awesome photographer but maybe don't order the books right away. I could go on and on so if you need help or ideas come in or call.

Holiday Wreath Workshop

We had such a good time last Saturday... here are some of the pictures that Kym Ventola took. She can make any one look beautiful!!!

Jacque will be here all day Saturday so please come in and ask lots of questions. She has several centerpiece ideas under $30. Also don't forget the Wreath Workshop at 10:30 AM this Saturday. I posted the information below.

Fresh Holiday Wreath Workshop
It is two weeks before Christmas, the perfect time to hang a fresh holiday greens wreath. On Saturday, December 13th please join for 1st annual wreath workshop. We supply the wreath, ribbon, decorations, and thee know how!!! You supply the smile and $40. The wreath is yours to take home or give as a gift. We will serve hot apple cider, hot cocoa, and hot glue! What could be more fun than some girls, hot glue, and hot drinks. Class begins at 10:30AM and reservations must be received by Thursday December 11th at 5PM. Please call (623) 536-0995.

Wishing you every happiness this Holiday Season and prosperity in the New Year. Thank you for being our customer.

All the best to you and your family,
Thee girls at Thee Wedding Warehouse

Digging for Diamonds is Back

Engaged? Looking for help planning the biggest event of your life?

Visit THEE WEDDING WAREHOUSE’s

Bridal Planning 101 on Saturday, December 6th!

10 AM - 5 PM

Join the valley’s best wedding vendors, as Thee Wedding Warehouse raffles off a 7-day Honeymoon Trip to Cabo San Lucas and much, much more!!

Digging for Diamonds is back ~ Dig for $20 a scoop in a bucket of full precious gemstones and 1 ct. diamond is hidden in the sand
Wonderful Food Creations by All About Catering and Cake Tasting All Day Long
Something special for all Grooms
Complimentary Engagement Photos Session – call to make appointment (623) 536-0995

Curtis Whipple will be providing entertainment.

Katie Easley of Kate Ryan Occasions will be answering all your questions from 10AM to Noon.

Amazing Face will be doing complimentary make-up trails all day.

Looking for something fun... check out A2Z Photo Booths

Cake Tasting All Day!!!

Its A Celebration Party and Event Rental is providing the popcorn.... and rentals.

Ask Ray from Ray Mar Productions about being on Deal or No Deal (get $200 off his DJ Services)

Looking for a Photographer... make your pictures say wow... stop by and see Rachel Priddy.

Plan your event in one day with out stress.... Creative Healing will be on site offering complimentary messages.

Book three or more services and get a $100.00 gift card for the store. Services must be booked by December 15th. Mention the blog to get your gift card.

Thanksgiving

We will be gone all next week... we are going to take the week and enjoy our family. Hopefully all of you do the same. Happy Holidays from thee girls at Thee Wedding Warehouse!

On December 6th we are having a big open house from 10AM to 5PM. I hope to see all of you. The best professionals in the valley will be here. All About Catering will be serving samples of their fabulous menu. We will have cake samples and entrainment (Thanks Curtis Whipple). Digging for diamonds will be out. Everyone has a chance at the 1ct. diamond. Our coordinator Katie Veinard will be here answering questions... and best of all enter the raffle for the honeymoon to Cabo San Lucas.

More.. pictures from Abbey's wedding.

More Praise

Just got this email from Karen....

THANK YOU SOOOOOO MUCH FOR BEING THERE FOR ME!!!!! THAT IS SOOOOOOOOO AWESOME!!!!!! YOU AND JACKIE ARE A COMPANY THAT TRUELY CARES FOR THEIR CUSTOMERS!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU!!!!! THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART. YOU SHOW THE TRUE MEANING OF GIVING ALL THAT YOU CAN FOR YOU CUSTOMERS AND IN THIS TIME THERE ARE NOT ANY COMPANIES THAT CAN SAY THAT THAT I KNOW OF!!!!!!! I PRAY BLESSING UPON BLESSINGS FOR YOU COMPANY TO GROW IN ABUNDANCE 1000 FOLD!!!!!!!

One of my favorites, Fresh Look images is offering a fall special. They are a family owned business and take fabulous pictures. They have an absolutely wonderful webpage. Check it out for the special or call Jason at 480-838-4236.

Bridal Walk

Kym Ventola of Ventola Photography posted some great pictures from the bridal walk that was at the Wigwam please check it out.


I met a great new contact that I would like to share will all of you.
Tonica Swan of Artistic Arch & Arbor Rentals by Arc de Belle . She set up 3 different Arch sets for the event. Wow... it was beautiful before we started then when you add the arches and then Jacque decorated them. It made it double wow!!

Come see us or make an appointment with us so we can help you make your event a WOW!

Praise

A Gift Certificate Winner!!

My fiance and I just wanted to say "thank you!" for the gift certificate to Red's Steak House at the Wigwam. We had such an amazing dinner -the food, service and setting was all top-notch! We will definitely keep that place in mind for an upcoming special dinner! We have been more than impressed with Thee Wedding Warehouse and services you offer, and can't wait to stop by again!!Sincerely,Jennifer F. & Luke K.

I have gift certificates for Reds Steak House for anyone that emails me and says they read the blog today.

info@theeweddingwarehouse.com

Bridal Walk and Couture Trunk Show

Ok... no matter what your plans are on Sunday.... Change them !! You need to Be at Thee Bridal Walk and Couture Trunk Show at The Wigwam Golf Resort and Spa. Admission is free if you RSVP.

1st of all the Wigwam is a great place to have your wedding. If you are still looking for a beautiful location this is the place to be. Besides being beautiful you can have everything all in one place for your guests.There is a beautiful spa and the golfing .... from what I hear is incredible!

Even if your location is already picked out... the valleys best vendors will be there. Get help planning your wedding. Get ceremony ideas, linen ideas, and Fresh Look Images will be doing free Engagement Photos. The food and entertainment will be great and the door prizes even better!!! Can't wait to see you there!!!

Do you still need a dress? World famous designer Michelle Rahn will grace us with a fabulous Trunk show of her finest creations. Make an appointment with Michelle Rahn...call (847) 668-0135 or email annierussell@michellerahn.com

Thee Wedding Warehouse proudly presents….
The Wigwam Golf Resort and Spa Bridal Walk and Couture Trunk Show Featuring Michelle Rahn

Where: The Wigwam Golf Resort and Spa
300 Wigwam Blvd, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
Date: November 16th
9AM – 2PM

The Wigwam Golf Resort and Spa Bridal Walk and Couture Trunk Show Featuring Michelle Rahn

You are cordially invited to the 1st ever Bridal Walk and Couture Trunk Show featuring Michelle Rahn at the Wigwam Golf Resort and Spa. Meet the valley’s BEST wedding professionals while enjoying wonderful food, prizes, and live entertainment. There will also be a featured Groom’s area complete with a Butler and special amenities. Admission is free with RSVP 623.856.1019 or $5.00 at the door. Your Wedding plans should be relaxing, let us show you how to make your dream day become a reality. Register today for the opportunity to win a dream wedding in our “Wigwam Golf Resort and Spa Dream Wedding Give Away.”

Chocolate Lovers

Ok guys! For all you Chocolate lovers.... All About Catering is giving Thee Wedding Warehouse Clients.... Are you ready?????? A CHOCOLATE FOUNTAIN!!!!!!!! Yep! That's what I said Chocolate fountain! So if you have not booked a caterer and love chocolate this is a no brainer! Great food great service and chocolate!! What more could you need? Well... except a florist,D.J.,photographer,rings..... ok I'll stop now.

Ginny gave us a great suggestion!!!!!! Instead of doing buffet tables try STATIONS.

Pasta Station

Salad Station... very cute served in a martini glass

Carving Station

Potato Station

Instead of your guests standing in a line waiting for their food... they can meander about to different stations. It adds personality and style and actually works into a budget very well.

Congrats Abbey and Mike

I must say, in 25 years I do believe that Abbey and Beth (and yes there is a groom, Mike) were my favorite clients ever! All I had to do was mention something then they would say "yeah, yeah, yeah, lets do it". It is so fun to have creative reign with a bride who trusts you and your ability. Letting your florist be creative makes them excited...to do the work. We missed not one detail and I think invented a few new ones.

This is the candy bar we did...the picture does not do it justice. O'Grace Photography will be sending us the good ones soon. We all know that Jacque is NOT a photographer.

These are some of Beth and Abbey's balls. Ha. Ha. Love you girls.

Probably the sweetest cake table ever! Again, my picture does not do it justice. Elizabeth from Custom Cakes By Elizabeth really saw our vision and made it happen. One of the many benefits of using Thee Wedding Warehouse's vendors.

It's all in the details! Love the kermit balls, love the moss...love the whole darn thing!

Keep checking back...we have lots more pictures coming.

Look Here

A2Z Photo Booths...... what a cool idea. Your guests get to say "cheese" during cocktail hour or during the reception. Never heard of a photo booth???? Get inside the blue box...LOOK HERE... and have fun! Thirty seconds later two photo strips pop out, one for the guests and one for your customized photo guest book. The fun never ends with unlimited pictures.

What happens in the photo booth stays in the photo booth! Until you get the CD of all the pictures in the mail. Can anyone say "Black Mail"?

The film strips can be customized to your event and your guests will cherish their pictures. That is the BEST wedding favor.

Want more??? Customized the photo booth exteriors, save the card magnets, prop box and much, much more are available!!!!

Photos Courtesy of Ventola Photography

Don't Forget The Groomsmen

What a cool idea... if you or your future husband is a cigar smoker. Check out thee web page of The Puff Lounge. You can buy several different styles of humidors and cigars to go in them. This "cigar bar" would also be fun to do for cocktail hour. Oh I almost forgot....Great gift for the Groom, Dads, and Groomsmen!

The cigar bands can be customized with your monogram. We can help with the personalization. We are now offering custom invitations, favors, and place cards. If you need suggestions of good groomsmen gifts or want to view samples come in or call and make an appointment.

Set the Table

Do you need help setting the table?

Come in and let us help you....

Call (623) 536-0995 and set an appointment today.

Katie from Kate Ryan Occasions nicknamed this centerpiece "Dr. Seuss". If you haven't thought of hiring a "day of" coordinator, you might think again. A "day of" coordinator, like Katie, takes all the stress out of the wedding. They set out the favors and see that every detail is taken cake of.

Ventola Photography was kind enough to take these pictures of our work.

Polka Dot Sale

Come one.... Come all!

To the First Annual Polka Dot Sale

At Thee Wedding Warehouse!!

Everything you need to complete your Wedding To Do list!!

• Photo Albums
  
• Thank You Cards
  
• Tiaras
  
• Unity Candles
  
• Toasting Glasses
  
• Guest Books
  
• Cake Toppers
  
• Favors
  
• And much much more...

30% to 75% off all Wedding Accessories!

Sale starts Today and Ends Saturday October 11th!!

HURRY!!!!

Cannot be combined with any other offers. Discounts apply to in stock items only.

Christine's Friend Got Her Dream Wedding

Congratulations from all the vendors to Bernadette and Adolfo the winners of the My Best Friend Deserves Her Dream Wedding. May all your dreams come true.




What a shock they both had when they found out they won.


A toast to them and everyone that made this giveaway possible.


Her first call... to her mom. And everyone cried.



Christine wrote:

In my opinion, Bernadette deserves her ‘dream’ wedding because she is a great friend, loyal confidante, and is willing to do anything for anybody on a moment’s notice. The same can be said of her fiance, Adolfo, as they are basically never too busy to give of themselves or their time to others, especially when it comes to friends and family. Bernadette also deserves her dream wedding because she is determined to make the most out of life and believes that all good things are guided by faith in order to succeed. Bernadette has already accomplished many of her dreams thus far. For example, Bernadette was the first in her family to graduate high school and college, and did so by earning academic scholarships as she graduated with honors. As you will see, Bernadette gives one hundred percent effort to everything she puts her mind to, and remains dedicated with ambition and tenacity to finish whatever she started.
The main obstacle that would prevent Bernadette from having her dream wedding is money. Bernadette was raised by a single mother and has a large family, which includes a rather large extended family as well. Bernadette is very close with her family and has at times, helped them out financially. Unfortunately, they are not in a position to reciprocate. Recently, Bernadette was able to purchase her very own home through a first-time home buyer program called Housing Our Communities. Bernadette works extremely hard to achieve her goals and now that she has realized her dream of home ownership, is unable to afford her dream wedding. Bernadette’s dream wedding would consist of an outdoor setting; have fresh cut seasonal flowers, a 3-tiered cake, and a work-free day for her family. Since Bernadette must pay for her own wedding on a Social Workers salary it is quite impossible to make this dream become a reality.
Bernadette and I have been friends for two years, and she has been a very supportive person in my life. She has shared many of my trials and tribulations through our friendship. Bernadette has proven herself to be there whenever I needed to talk, laugh, cry, or just act silly (which I do at times!). The best memories Bernadette and I have together are through our shared interest in travel. Bernadette was very grateful that I introduced her to flying and accompanied her on her very first flight in November 2006 to San Diego, CA, where we enjoyed a day at the zoo. Not long thereafter, I accompanied Bernadette in realizing her dream of visiting New York City and Washington D.C. I will also never forget the look on Bernadette’s face when she saw her first lightning bug during our trip to my mom’s house in Philadelphia, PA. last summer. Bernadette appreciates life and has worked very hard to get where she is today. Bernadette will not pass up an opportunity to realize her dreams and achieve her goals, which is why I have decided to assist her in becoming the recipient of her own dream wedding.
Bernadette contributes to her community first and foremost through her job at the Child Crisis Center’s Family Resource Center in Mesa, and second, at her part-time job with the City of Mesa’s Washington Activity Center. In both positions, Bernadette devotes her time guiding the children to make good, positive choices, as well as providing parent support in the classes she teaches at the Family Resource Center. Bernadette is a dedicated individual who truly cares about improving the lives of children and their families. In her second job, Bernadette plays an even more vital role in helping underprivileged children by supervising their after school activities and coordinating various field trips in order to provide them with the opportunity to experience things they otherwise would not have had on their own. Bernadette and Adolfo’s contribution to the recreation center ensures that there is a safe place for kids to ‘hang-out’ after school and during the summer in order to keep them off the streets and out of trouble. Bernadette and Adolfo understand the importance of guiding children, as Adolfo is a dedicated volunteer at the same recreation center where Bernadette works. Since both Bernadette and Adolfo are avid volunteers, they have recently signed up to help Arizona Adoption and Foster Care with their upcoming Labor Day camp. This camp is for all families that have either adopted or provide foster care to children in their homes, and the events will last the entire weekend. It takes two very special people to touch their friends, families, and communities in the ways that Bernadette and Adolfo do, and continue their efforts without fail.
Bernadette & Adolfo grew up in the same neighborhood, although their paths did not cross until they both participated in softball teams during the summer of 2005. Bernadette often recalls how she had never noticed Adolfo and was hesitant because she felt they would not be compatible. However, it was during that same summer that Bernadette and Adolfo spent time taking long walks in the park getting to know each other. That was the year they fell in love and they have been in love for three years this month. Bernadette and Adolfo were engaged in March 2008, and plan to be married in April 2009.
Bernadette and Adolfo are a unique couple simply because they compliment and complete each other. She is very strong, organized and punctual; Adolfo, on the other hand, is laid-back, relaxed, and spontaneous. In that respect, they truly balance each other, and I believe there are no two people more deserving of this wedding than them. Bernadette and Adolfo’s relationship is also special because they are not opposed to sharing gender-traditional roles. For example, Adolfo is comfortable cooking and cleaning whereas some men might not, and Bernadette enjoys accompanying Adolfo outdoors and assisting with projects around the home. In any situation, they truly cherish the time they spend together and have created a special partnership. Adolfo realizes how special Bernadette is and treats her like a princess by pampering her with compliments and affection on a daily basis. Each of them makes sure a day does not by without the other knowing how much they are loved and appreciated. Adolfo cannot wait to marry Bernadette and she is looking forward to looking and feeling like a princess on her wedding day. I was most happy to write this essay for Adolfo and Bernadette since playing a part in helping them achieve their dream wedding would be the very deserving gift for this couple to begin the rest of their lives together.

Watch watch our blog for updates and the goings on of Bernadette and Adolfo.

Pictures courtesy of Fresh Look Images.

Congratulations Jennifer and Craig!

Jen and Craig were recently wed at Estrella Mountain Ranch at the Star Point Residence Club. The green grass and lake set the perfect stage for incredible pictures. Fresh Look Images did a wonderful job capturing thee memories that will last them a life time. We enjoyed doing their flowers and helping them with all of their details. Again, Jennifer and Craig we wish a lifetime of happiness.

A professional photographer is definitely worth every penny, but don't forget, if you skimp too much on your decorations you really limit your photographer's creativity and ability to personalize your event.

A tip if your budget is tight: see if your photographer offers a scrapbook type package. This means you receive a CD of your photos to print on your own.

Visit Fresh Look Images today!

We Want to Hear From YOU!

Calling All Brides! Calling all Brides! We are asking all of our Brides past and present to go to www.weddingwire.com and give us a review! We want to hear what you think of us. Wedding Wire is a great new site for Wedding Vendors! It gives you the oppurtunity to let us know how you really feel. Were you happy with your experience? What would you change? Let us know so we can better serve you and all of our future clients. As a matter of fact, look for all your vendors and give them a review! It really helps us to know where we are strong and where we are lacking. Our industry is all about customer service and providing you with the best experience possible!

Bridal Show Slide Show

Fresh Look Images always does a great slide show for us of events that we have here at Thee Wedding Warehouse. Click here to check out the show!

If you missed the last event... please check out our EVENT Calender. Lots of fun things are in the works...

If you are still looking for a photographer to tell your story. Call Fresh Look at 480-838-4236.

Fabulous Facts

I get an email once a month from Arizona Weddings Magazine and Website... so here are a few interesting stats.

In the US in 2008...

• 2,199,517 weddings will occur
• Arizona will be a home to 41,626 weddings
• 45% of the time, the couple pays for the wedding
• Only 67% of couples set a budget
• 65% of wedding ceremonies are held outdoors
• 78% of wedding receptions are held indoors
• An average of 30% of the budget is spent on food
• Average Engagement: 16 Months
• Average Age of the Bride: 26 years old
• Average Age of the Groom:28 years old

Our new wedding guide books are in. Please stop by and pick one up.

Sincerely US

I got such a nice email after our Planning 101 that I just had to post it.

Hi Kathy,
This is Terysa R., I hope you still remember us. We were the first couple to take our engagement photos. I was in the orange dress and he was the 6'6 guy in a white long sleeve shirt.I just wanted to thank you for inviting us to the event this past weekend. We got alot of great ideas, we even "table-scaped" our kitchen table and it looks GREAT!Thanks to the event, we were able to meet other couples just like us, giving us a chance to discuss budget and future wedding plans. All in all, it was DEFINITELY worth the trip.Thanks and I look forward to meeting with you again.
Sincerely,
Us

We had a great turn out....for those of you that still need help come in and ask lots of questions. We are here to help.

Ashley & Tiffany Falsafi

May 2, 2008

Congratulations! You guys looked absolutely incredible! Tiffany you were a joy to work with and we wish you all the best. Thanks Kevin from Sierra Blanco Photography for all the great pictures.

Visit the slide show of our last bridal show. Thanks to Fresh Look Images. http://freshlookimages.com/slideshows/bridal_extravaganza/bridal_extravaganza.html

New 2008 Wedding Research

New 2008 Wedding Stat's:

New Averages:

Number of guests: 167
Cost of wedding gown: $1,293
Hair & Make-up Service: $292
Reception Flowers: $951
Engagement Ring: $4,472
Groom’s Ring: $636
Ceremony/Reception Band: $1,853
Ceremony/Reception DJ: $707
Photographer: $1,975

Wedding Cost By Cities:

Flagstaff: $26,234
Phoenix Metro Area: $ 30,313
Tucson: $27,668
Sedona: $32,093
Gilbert: $38,682
Tempe: $29,468
Scottsdale: $39,728
Surprise: $31,949Flagstaff: $26,234
Phoenix Metro Area: $ 30,313
Tucson: $27,668
Sedona: $32,093
Gilbert: $38,682
Tempe: $29,468
Scottsdale: $39,728
Surprise: $31,949