BIG SALE 60% OFF | Wedding Accessories

We are so proud and excited to announce Thee Wedding and EVENT Warehouse has expanded! We are now able to do even more WONDERFUL than before!



Please come in and see all the wonderful things happening. EVERY item in the store is 60% off from toasting Glasses to Tiaras ... for the month of December... We are incredibly excited to get some new lines of great wedding accessories for the new year!



We have changed our store hours to Wednesday-Friday 10-5 pm Saturday 9-3 pm. We will be available for appointment on any other day... just call (623) 536-0995 or email at your convenience.



Don't miss this year end clearance and please come in and join us for your complimentary consultation and you will see what planning your wedding or event should be.



Don't forget to check our new site (up in a few weeks) for all the exciting things we have planned for you next year!

Wedding Favors...what to do? Candy, Picture Frames, Fortune Cookies, Personalized Gifts?

There are hundreds of ideas for Wedding Favors these days...some traditional, some more unique. We thought it would be fun to explore a little bit on the topic and see what is condered the "top ten" list as far as favors go. See what you think about this list...do you think something else should be on the top 10 list? What is the most "unique" favor/item you have recieved at a wedding you attended? Don't forget we sell favors here at Thee Wedding Warehouse as well as on our website www.theeweddingwarehouse.com, let us know if we can help you!


Top Ten Wedding Favor Ideas

The practice of handing out favors as a token of appreciation to wedding guests dates back to the Middle Ages.

Since then, wedding favors have evolved from fancily packaged sweets to the elegantly presented sugar-coated Jordan almonds.

Today the wedding favor is a firmly entrenched wedding tradition, with endless choices ranging from sterling silver trinkets to more inexpensive ways to simply say "thanks for coming."

Here are some of the most popular:

• Do it yourself - Good old fashioned ingenuity comes into play when planning a do-it-yourself favor, and can get everyone involved. What's more, you're sure to save lots of money on homemade gifts. Scented candles or tea lights, fancily wrapped candy tins or home baked cookies, homemade sachets or potpourri fit the bill nicely, and can be easily personalized with labels created on a home computer.

• Personalized wedding favors - Champagne bottles, sterling silver coasters, matchbooks, pens and even golf balls are all part of the wedding favor industry's bonanza for supplying the bride and groom with their names and wedding date professionally printed on items handed out to guests. Pricey, sure, but the 'wow' factor is definitely still there.

• Edible wedding favors - Personallized fortune cookies, chocolate, candy, almonds, mints, honey jars ("Meant to bee!"), gourmet teas and coffees, candy hearts.

• Bubbles - A favorite pasttime from childhood makes a whimsical gift that's a hit with both kids and adults.

• Au natural - Think sea shells, engraved natural stone, wild flower seeds, jute tote bags, natural soaps & gels.

• Seasonal wedding favors - Incorporate these into a winter or fall wedding theme with gifts of spice-scented candles, baked goods, jams and jellies, snow globes or personalized Christmas ornaments.

• Frames - The versatile picture frame may hold a photo, the wedding invitation, or serve as a keepsake place card holder that guests can bring home.

• Candles - Practical, elegant, and today packaged in all sizes, shapes and scents.

• Plants & flowers - A Love in Bloom theme can be displayed in personalized packets of flower seeds, elegantly presented flowering bulbs or potted plants

• Cameras - Keeping shutterbugs busy at the reception is even more popular as prices come down on throwaways, while supplying the bride and groom with memorable moments only their guests could have shared.

• Silver - Bells, cookie cutters, (inscribed "we were cut out for each other") coasters, spoons, wine stoppers, ice cream scoops.


(top 10 list courtesy of www.chiff.com)

Another Fairy Tale, coordinated and designed by Thee Wedding Warehouse...

Stephanie & Ian, who are from Canada, planned their wedding in Arizona for our beautiful resort-like atmosphere and fantastic weather...and it worked out beautifully as you can see in these amazing images taken by one of our own preferred Vendors, Kiss The Camera. Thee Wedding Fairy, Kathy Bagett, was on site coordinating and making sure everything flowed without a hitch. We wish this couple all the happiness in the world.

To View More Images, please see Kiss The Camera's Website/blog: http://www.kissthecamera.net/2010/11/stephanie-ians-wedding-at-a-private-home-in-cave-creek-az/

Another Installment of Meet Thee Vendors We Love!

Meet Carl Anderson, of Princess Bride Cinematic Videography!

One of the most important and lasting memories from your wedding is captured via Video, and Carl certainly has the flair and the knack for making it AMAZING! Be sure you take a look at their website www.princessbridevideo.com for more info and some "clips" of what they do, how they do it, and what makes it special. You won't be disappointed! Now, take a look below at some great facts (and advice) about Carl & his company:

1. How long have you been doing Video at Events & Weddings?
25 years and counting! I turned 40 this year and started filming weddings professionally at age 15. I was the consummate "video geek" in High School and was asked by a graduating Senior to film her wedding for $25. I loved it, started the biz, and never looked back. Of course, my rates haven't changed in 25 years, making us a great investment...

2. Why did you decide to start this biz?
I have always had a passion for film-making, cinematography, and story-telling. Ever since I was a kid I wanted to make movies, and become the next Steven Spielberg. So, I attended a special cinematography summer-school at U.S.C., arguedly the best film school in the country, and got specially-trained for storytelling with a video cam some 20 years ago. I decided instead of 18 hour-a-day workdays on film sets that I loved the feel and the raw emotion of a wedding "flim-set" better, so I went full-time with my Princess Bride Sarah and a great staff of Cinematographers some 15 years ago. We are the longest-running wedding video company in AZ!

3. What is your favorite part of doing what you do?
My favorite part is capturing the emotion of a wedding day; the first meeting together of the bride and groom, hearing what they feel for each other just before the Ceremony, the beauty of the Vows and Rings, the amazing stories of the Toasts, and the emotion of the first dance. Every wedding day is unique and when I sit down to edit, I love creating a fresh Masterpiece on the canvas of original footage.

4. What is the funniest thing that has happened to you while doing your job?
Funniest moment: last year during the dinner, the glasses were being "clinked" and instead of the B and G kissing, the parents of the Bride were asked to kiss in front of 300 guests instead. I was rolling video in perfect position, and the Father of the Bride went to dip-kiss his wife and DROPPED her, with a thud, on the floor! They both landed spread-eagle on the ground and the whole room GASPED, then of course applauded when the embarrassed parents got up and kissed again!

5. How long have you been married & how did you meet?
Married 14 years this March. We met in Church. I was on my way in to visit Sarah's church, and I was praying a prayer to God on my way in the door. I said, "LORD, this is the kind of place I could meet myself a woman. Come on!" Well, the LORD answered that prayer about 8 seconds later, as when I walked in the front door, Sarah was the greeter and shook my hand! We ended up going out for a bite to eat after the service, and the rest is history...
We met (and married) 7 months to-the-day from the day we met!

6. Do you have any Fantastic Tips for people who are considering Videography at their event?
Fantastic Tips: hire a professional! don't let "Uncle Ned" video your wedding. Also, hire a pro who films and out-puts in HD on a stunning blu-ray disc! Good cinematographers understand so many technical and creative elements in wedding shooting, with experience as the best teacher, than any "uncle" or "friend" can offer. We understand good sound (wireless mic always placed on the groom for awesome vows and rings' sound) appropriate lighting technique, shot composition, candid style, being everywhere and nowhere at the same time, and now delivering a finished Movie in stunning High Def quality on a Blu-ray disc to enjoy for a lifetime.

7. What are your own personal hobbies/pastimes?
I love fishing, reading, movies (I watch movies from a cinematographer's perspective and they are all "training" for learning new techniques!), and hangin' out playing games with my wife and 3 young children. One thing that most people in the wedding industry don't know about me, is that I am also an ordained minister! I don't "marry people" but I do travel the world in missions and share the gospel to various folk. Last year alone I travelled to London, Belfast, Sydney and Melbourne on various trips, in-between filming about 62 weddings in both Minnesota (the summer) and Arizona (the winter)!!!

8. If you could do your job anywhere in the world, where would you be?
We love doing our job and fulfilling our dream of living in Minnesota for the gorgeous summers, and Arizona for the warm winters! We live a dual life by having homes in both States and shifting between them as the weddings are booked. The northwoods and lakes for most of the year and the desert for the other part. I am a 40 year-old Snowbird!

We hope you enjoyed learning about Carl and Princess Bride Cinematic Videography! Please stop by Thee Wedding Warehouse to meet and/or learn more about any of our fantastic wedding vendors. And visit our website at www.theeweddingwarehouse.com for more info as well.

What is the symbolization of a Sand Ceremony?

Here at Thee Wedding Warehouse we have some traditional and some unique items as well! Our Sand Ceremony Vase Sets and coordinating Sand in such great colors as Aubergine, Cobalt, Latte, Lime Green & more, are something we stock and sell more than just about anything else in the store! For those of you who aren't quite sure what a Sand Ceremony represents, take a look at the info below, and come visit us to pick up your set today! We also carry the Forever Frame and can engrave just about anything for you!



Unity ceremonies have been a special part of wedding vows since time immemorial. Couples from cultures around the world have used the unity ceremony as a powerful way to symbolize their love and commitment to one another in marriage.



But, until recently it’s always been the Unity Candle Ceremony that has received the majority of the spotlight. That all changed, however, when Trista Rehn and Ryan Sutter – of the highly-acclaimed “The Bachelorette” TV series – decided to incorporate the Unity Sand Ceremony into their amazing multimillion dollar wedding celebration.

Their nationally-televised wedding allowed couples all across the country to see just how beautiful and meaningful the sand ceremony was and inspired countless newlyweds to understand the importance of featuring it prominently in their vows.



Taking a Cue from Candlelight

The Unity Candle Ceremony has long been a tradition seen in marriages of all types, elaborate and simple. Typically, in this version of the unity ceremony, there is a single candle (the unity candle) that both bride and groom light from a flame of their own single candles. Parents or other members of the wedding party often join in the candle lighting ceremony using candles of their own, too.

The shortcoming of the unity candle is that it leaves no permanent memento or reminder of the union. Once the candle has been blown out, the significance of the ceremony is left only as a fleeting memory.



This is where the Unity Sand Ceremony has so much more to offer.



The Unity Sand Ceremony, a celebration that is usually two to three minutes in length, is a meaningful symbolic joining of two lives. In this timeless ritual of marriage, the couple ceremoniously pours various colors of sand from separate containers into one special container, the unity vase, symbolizing their coming together as one.

It provides a way for couples during their wedding ceremony to brilliantly show the joining of the flow of their two lives into a single stream with their individually colored sands joining as one in the Unity Vase.

Plus, because it can be displayed privately or for all to see for years to come, the symbol of the couple’s love is always present, always a reminder, and always a touchstone of truth. As such, the Unity Sand Ceremony and the unity vase can be treasured forever.



The Meaning of the Unity Sand Ceremony

The flowing sand and blending of the colors in the Unity Sand Ceremony symbolize the bringing together of two lives into one. The two sands symbolize everything that the bride and groom have been or will become in the future.

The blending of the sand represents the union not only of them but their friends and families as well. The separate sands once poured into the unity vase can never be put back into their separate vases. They are forever entwined just as the lives and loves of the bride and groom.

Some couples prefer to leave a small amount of sand in their respective container to show that even though they now function as one, they remain individuals.



The History of the Unity Sand Ceremony and You

Our current day Unity Sand Ceremony is thought to have its origins in Native American culture, either with Hawaiian ancestors or indigenous groups from the mainland.



Regardless of whether the tradition comes from the dreamy islands of the Pacific or the rich soils of North America, the reality is still the same: The Unity Sand Ceremony is mystical and romantic as well as timeless and essential.

Meet Cyndi Hardy Photography; Another One of Thee Vendors We Love!

Last week we decided to start a "get to know our favorite wedding vendors" segment for our blog (and don't forget to follow us on facebook!). Now, we'd like for you to meet Cyndi Hardy of Cyndi Hardy Photography. This artistic, creative & friendly gal is one of our best & very loved by our clients! Take a look at how she re-created the cake topper in this couples photograph above! Please take a minute to learn a bit about Cyndi and stop by to take a look at some of her work here in our store and on her website www.cyndihardy.com!



~How long have you been a professional Photographer?
9 years. I started Cyndi Hardy Photography 6 years ago.


~Why did you decide to start Photography as a career?
I actually wanted to be a nature and landscape photographer. I love traveling and I love the beauty in this world, so I thought I would combine the two. That’s when I decided to go school to learn the technical side of photography. While I was in school, I started second shooting for a wedding photographer and fell in love!

~What is your favorite part of doing what you do?
Meeting new people and I get to watch people’s dreams come true!


~What is the funniest thing that has happened to you while doing your job?
I had the whole bridal party in the grass taking pictures and the sprinklers came on. I’ve never seen people move so fast before, including myself!!

~Do you have any Fantastic Tips for people who are considering hiring a Professional Photographer at their event?
Make sure you like both the photographer’s style and their personality. If you’re not comfortable with your photographer, it will show in your photos.

~What are your own personal hobbies/pastimes?
Watching hockey, hiking, gardening, going to the movies, hanging out with friends.

~Do you prefer Cats or Dogs? (hey, had to throw a little something really personal in there!)?
Doggies :)

Check out Cyndi Hardy Photography and all of our Favorite Wedding Vendors on our Website: www.theeweddingwarehouse.com!

Meet The Vendors of Thee Wedding Warehouse!

We thought it would be fun for you to get the opportunity to learn a little bit about some of our fantastic Wedding Vendor Friends. Below is a little Q&A with Christopher Smith, co-owner (with his wife Jill Smith) of A2Z Photo Booth. This is one fun couple! Check out their website at www.a2zphotobooths.com, and let us set you up an appointment to meet with them for a custom quote for a photo-booth at your event today!!

1. How long have you been doing A2Z Photo Booth's at Events & Weddings?
3 years

2. Why did you decide to start this biz?
I was looking for something "new" to do and came up with this.

3. What is your favorite part of doing what you do?
Everywhere we go people are happy!

4. What is the funniest thing that has happened to you while doing your job?
The rule is "what hapens in the booth stays in the booth" ;)

6. Do you have any Fantastic Tips for people who are considering a Photo Booth at their event?
There are lots of them. The biggest one is that they (the couple) need to plan time for them to use the booth also.

7. What are your own personal hobbies/pastimes?
Anything outdoors in the mountains, especially camping, hunting, and rappelling.

8. Do you prefer Tea or Coffee (hey, had to throw a little something really personal in there!)?
It's not one of the choices but steamed milk.

Check out A2Z Photo Booth's and all of our Favorite Wedding Vendors on our Website: www.theeweddingwarehouse.com!

Bad bad weather in Ecuador and Cuba

Ok… So I have news to share.
I am hearing that there was very bad weather in Ecuador and Cuba this past summer. It rained and was cloudy for the entire 4 months of their Grow season. This means for us florists and yes my very special brides that the roses are going to be less than perfect! “They” are saying that even filling big rose orders will be tricky and that we have to have a second choice on all varieties… don’t worry we will get as close to the color as possible it just may not be the exact name or variety originally quoted. I know this really stinks but rest assured that both we and our growers are doing everything we can to fill each and every order. On a good note the rest of the flower industry is fine so we will still have fab flowers from everywhere else!
I will keep everyone in the loop as it comes to me.
Jacque

Six Amazing Honeymoon’s

Six Amazing Honeymoon’s
Under $2700 for two!

1. Costa Rica, Central America
Airfare on American Airlines, 5 Nights (ALL INCLUSIVE!) Standard Room @
Doubletree Resort Puntarenas, Tax and Transfers
$2575.00 for two

2. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Airfare on US Air, 5 Nights @ Occidental Grand Resort Punta Cana, (ALL INCLUSIVE!), Grand Concierge Deluxe Room, Airport Transfers & all Taxes
$2397.00 for two

3. Bermuda
Airfare on US Air, 5 Nights Superior Ocean View Room @
Grotto Bay Beach Resort, Tax and Transfers
$2505.00 for two

4. Maui, Hawaii
Airfare on Hawaiian Airlines, 7 Nights Fairway View One-Bedroom Condo @
Kapalua Villas Resort, Economy Car Rental, All Taxes
$2463.00 for two

5. Negril, Jamaica
Airfare on American Airlines, 5 Nights in a Gardenside Cottage @
Grand Pineaple Beach Resort Negril (ALL INCLUSIVE!), Transfers & Taxes
$2646.00 for two

6. Disney Cruise Line, Disney Wonder ~ 7 Night Mexico Cruise
Sailing Round-trip from L.A (to Mazatlan/Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan) Category 10C Deluxe Inside Stateroom, Port Fees & Taxes
$1941.46 for two

Contact: “Thee Honeymoon Fairy” Angela Schrenk
Honeymoon Specialist / Aspire2Travel, LLC
Aschrenktvl@gmail.com
602-818-4140
Ask Me How You Can Register For Your Honeymoon!
Prices/Availability subject to change, based on availability until booked. Pricing is based on March 2011 departure dates.
Some tax/fees may be additional.

Let’s Talk Make-up

OK Girls...Let’s talk Make-up!

I understand that we are in really tough economic times… BUT… you spend thousands of dollars planning your wedding and a huge chunk of that is on Photography, right? So how in the wide wide world of sports could you consider not having you and your Bridesmaids hair & make-up done?

This is one of those things that I say "Is not expensive… It’s PRICELESS”!

These are pictures that you will have for a lifetime and you want them to be fabulous! YOU want to look fabulous in them! Please trust me when I tell you that your everyday make-up IS NOT THE SAME!!!! We do not have the skill or the product to do the kind of job that a Professional Make-up artist has. They use special foundations and effects to make you look your absolute best!! There is something about the way a make-up artist does eyes and foundation that is irreplaceable! AND don’t even get me started on how incredible The EYELASHES are! OMG…. Every girl needs lashes, lol.

It is also a really great way to spend the time before your big entrance! I mean really girls, what could be better than being pampered in your room? Our artists come to you, no driving around from the hair salon and then to the mall make-up counter! If you don’t trust my 25 years worth of seeing the difference in Professional artistry and the girls who do their own… do a trial and see the difference! I know from experience that every time Heather from Pure Radiance does my face that I feel like a MILLION BUCKS! She is truly an artist and it shows in your face! Every Bride should shine from inside as well as from outside!

Heather will be here this Thursday evening at our awesome TWW & Twirl Event… Join us… Have fun, buy dresses, shop the sales, drink pink champagne, eat great food! Is there any better way to spend a Thursday night???


STEP OUT OF THE BOX AND TWIRL INTO THEE COLOR!
Thursday, September 30
6:00pm to 9:00pm
See Details, click here

To Toss or Not to Toss

So... one of the really fun parts of your wedding is the bouquet/garter toss.. or is it?

Recently I was at a wedding where the bride very happily ran out on the dance floor to toss her bouquet and Lo and Behold... no-one joined her!!! She stood there looking at everyone thinking "OMG... this is awkward"....

Here's what I think: if you are a bride in her 20's who has lots of single girl friends who will go "running" to the dance floor to kill each other for the bouquet... toss it! However, if you are a bride who is a bit older (like me) with lots of married girlfriends not so willing to kill each other for the chance of the superstitious marriage bouquet (LOL) ...don't toss it!

It was so bad for me (married at 35) that my girlfriends used to say... ON THE MICROPHONE..." Hey Jacque I know you're here! Come out and catch the bouquet!" Oh ya,... can't wait to stand up there in front of 125 people alone! NOT!

So my advice? Consider your guest list, and if you don't have a ton of singles, research some other options. Talk to your DJ or your planner; they can help you to come up with some great alternatives, like the Anniversary Dance, where you give the couple who has been married the longest your toss bouquet and garter! It's really sweet and romantic and no-one looks like the fool.

The toss isn't something anyone will miss if you replace it with something wonderful. And trust me, your single girlfriends will love you for it! LOLOLOL

Rehearsal Dinner Location Ideas

Check out these fun rehearsal dinner location ideas for the West Valley.

Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant and Cantina
13319 W. McDowell Rd. Goodyear AZ
623-435-3793

Tiburon
16335 W Northern Ave Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
(623) 535-4249

Old Pueblo Café
102 N Old Litchfield Rd Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
(623) 935-5059

Blu Sushi
118 N Old Litchfield Rd Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
(623) 935-9730


The Grill at Wigwan Golf Resort and Spa

451 Old Litchfield Rd Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
(623) 856-1094


Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
9712 West Northern Ave. Peoria, AZ 85345
(623) 772-9463

Yard House
9401 W Westgate Blvd Glendale, AZ 85305
(623) 872-3900


My Big Fat Greek Restaurant
6922 N. 95th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85305
(623) 772-5667

Camarones
6970 N. 95th Ave Glendale, AZ 85305
(623) 772-1110

brides maids dresses and color

When you chose your brides maids dresses did you think about the flowers you would choose to accompany them first… or at all?

As brides and “girls” we spend hours looking for the right dress for our attendants.

Which one looks the best on my kind of chunky, brunette MOH and will still look good on my teeny tiny blonde sister!?! LOL But did you ever stop to consider what your favorite flowers were and what colors they came in? Did you ever imagine for a moment what all your girls (including you) would be holding in their hands in all your photos?


I believe in color and I am not afraid to say it!!! I love to meet with a bride who has “NO IDEA” what she wants!

That is the most fun! Because,… I love color! If you have chosen “plum” for your girls did you immediately think "Oh light purple and ivory”? If you did you are like most, it’s safe. But can you see deep Orangey yellows on there??? Or how about deep sage greens and cranberry reds with a touch of orange??? For spring what about rich orange, corally oranges and purples? There are so many fun options to choose from.





On chocolate brown… how about deep reds and burgundy’s? Or all shades of green?? MMM, I can just see it now…LOL

Coming in to see me will be one of the most fun parts of planning your wedding. I get to open your mind to possibilities and color schemes you may never have thought of! I will help you to pick the perfect bouquet for the dress you are wearing. And trust me there is the right bouquet for each bride and her dress! If you have tons of bead work, I suggest a simple and timeless bouquet. If your dress is very simple then maybe we go for a floral eye catcher!

We will look at tons of books, pictures and magazines. We will choose together the wedding flowers that are perfectly just yours! I can help you choose linens to add the perfect touch to your reception room too. (Linens are huge by the way)…

When you leave our store you will have had one of the best days picking flowers and decorations! I promise you that. We offer so many wonderful things in our store who even knows what you can accomplish in one day! And I promise that I have VERY reasonable prices for what we offer. I take great pride in the Bouquets that come out of Thee Wedding Warehouse home of EnDearing Floral design and each bride who carries them.

Come in and see us. Let us show you what planning your wedding should be…

Jacque Dearing
Co-Owner
Designer

Flower Workshop via @constantcontact

Flower Workshop via @constantcontact

"Let's Get Hitched"

Estrella Vista Reception Center offers a package called.. "Let's Get Hitched" See details below. I had a wonderful young couple that just picked this package for their August 1st wedding. Sandy and Jose wanted all of their friends and family that were already traveling to celebrate his degree completion to be able to come to the wedding. Reverend Giovanni officiated the eleven o'clock ceremony. Thee Wedding Fairy was there early to set up so the bride and groom could concentrate on enjoying her day. Cyndi of Cyndi Hardy Photography captured all the memories for the happy couple. We so enjoyed being able to be apart of their day and wish the both the best and years of happiness.

Sunday – Thursday


Up to 80 Guests

Bring your family and friends to share in the excitement and happiness of your special day. Just bring your smiles and let us take care of the details.

Our all-inclusive "Let's Get Hitched" package includes:

Ceremony

1 Hr. rehearsal
1 Hr. wedding ceremony
Decorated wedding arch & aisle runner
White garden chairs with aisle bows (seating up to 80)
Confirmation of ceremony officiate
Unity Candle table
Men & Women's dressing rooms
Sound System
Reception


10 passenger Limo service from Estrella Vista Reception Center to evening's destination

A 4-hour reception

Room set up and take down
60 inch round tables and banquet chairs for up to 80 guests
Floor length table linens (in black, ivory or white)
Colored table overlays (95 colors to choose from)

Chair covers with sashes
Elegant table decorations to include: Mirror centerpieces with votive candles and 40-inch high silk floral arrangements
Skirting and silk floral arrangements on the Bridal table, Cake table and Registry

Champagne (or Sparkling Cider) for the bride & groom and bridal party

Complete catered dinner (Catering provided by Estrella Vista Reception Center)
Disposible Napkins, dinner plates, flatware, and cake plates
7-gallon Silver punch fountain with complimentary lemonaide or punch for the reception

Two-tiered wedding cake (provided by Cakes by Lourdes)
Cake cutting service
Separate Men’s & Women’s Dressing Rooms
Bartender
Twinkle lighting set-up
On-site coordinator
Complete clean up following your event
Sales tax

$2,800 Total for Garden Ceremony & Garden Reception
$3,300 Total with Indoor Ceremony & Reception**
$4,000 Total with Garden Ceremony & Indoor Reception**

**Based on a guaranteed minimum of 50 people. $18.95 per person over 80 guests.

Photography from a recent brides Point of View

More tips from Summer School for Brides
hosted by Thee Wedding Warehouse



by Christine Valenzuela - KISS THE CAMERA


Even though I've photographed and been a part of dozens and dozens of weddings, being the bride gave me a different perspective on wedding photography.

My tips:
1) It's very important to have a timeline for not only yourself but also all the other people involved (especially if you have a large family and/or bridal party). You want to avoid getting a ton of calls from your family and friends on your wedding day.

2) Use timelines as a guideline and don't be upset if you run a little behind. Unexpected things will happen and may cause your timing to be a bit off. Make sure to pad your timeline with extra time to ensure you have the ability to take the photos you'd like.

3) Enjoy the day and especially the photography session. This is the first thing you will do with your husband. Relax and just have fun with the photographer. It will show in the photos.

4) Choose a photographer not solely based on their work, but also their personality. You have to genuinely like the person to be able to invite them into very intimate moments between you and your new husband. It will be clear in the photos if you are faking your emotions or are holding back your true feelings.

Photography from a recent brides Point of View
by Christine Valenzuela - KISS THE CAMERA

Images courtesy of
Kiss the Camera

Posing:

Turning your body at an angle and shifting your weight to your back foot while pointing your other foot forward can instantly help you lose 10-20 pounds through the camera.

Stick out your chin a little to avoid the appearance of a double chin in your photos.

Don't hold your breath during a pose. Stay relaxed and your photos will look as if you just happened to be sitting this way when the photographer walked up.

You don't always have to smile. You should have a good variety of smiling, laughing and serious looks.



Tips for looking good in your wedding photos:

Do a trial run with your hair stylist and make-up artist before the wedding. Having them do your make-up before the wedding gives you a chance to see if you enjoy working with them and makes sure there are not any unpleasant surprises. If possible, you should think about scheduling your engagement session on the same day as the trial. This will give you the opportunity to see how your make-up and hair will look in photos.

Remember to eat and stay hydrated! The better you feel, the better you will look in your photos.

Wear comfortable shoes. Make sure you wear your wedding day shoes around the house to break them in. Some brides bring a second pair of shoes to the reception so that they can change their shoes after the grand entrance, which I think is a great idea!

If you are having an evening wedding, consider taking your pictures before the ceremony to take advantage of the beautiful natural light outdoors.

Lighting is very important for photographs. If you are thinking about having an indoor ceremony or backyard wedding, make sure there is enough ambient light. Set up a meeting with your photographer and show them what the lighting is like. They should be able to tell you if more light is needed or not.

Be relaxed, smile and enjoy your day! Laugh and let loose in front of the camera, just be yourself and show off the wonderful love you have each other. The happiness and affection will show through in the photos that you’ll treasure for a lifetime!

By Cyndi Hardy
Cyndi Hardy Photography

CYNDI HARDY PHOTOGRAPHY
Using a "Real Life" approach combined with an artistic style, Cyndi will capture the true expressions and emotions of your big day.
623.640.4114

Summer School for Brides

Summer School for Brides was a huge success -a huge thank you to all the brides and their families that attended. Another huge thank you to all the professional wedding vendors that participated in the event that made it great. Curtis Whipple (DJ) was the first to speak and gave all the brides information on what to consider when hiring a DJ. I think one of the best questions was “Ask if the DJ has liability insurance?” This separates a “hobbyist” DJ from a professional.

We had a very very happy bride that won the 9:45AM raffle for the $2,500 Wedding Fairy Package that included full service planning and “day-of-coordinating”. She ran outside as soon as she won to call her mom. Next to speak was Olivia Womack of Blue I Concepts Photography on “Key points on selecting the right photographer”. Remember you are going to be with your photographer all day and finding the perfect one to meet not only your budget but your personality is important.

I spoke next on “Budget Saving Tips”. Cutting the guest list is the first place and the largest place to trim the budget. Sitting down and writing a list before selecting a venue is the best advice I can give. Cyndi Hardy of Cyndi Hardy Photography spoke on “Posture and body positioning technique for the perfect wedding photograph”, which I will post on the blog tomorrow so everyone can read.

Ginny Solis of All About Catering, Co. announced they will be having a grand opening at their new building later this month. She spoke on “Tips on hiring the right caterer, questions you never thought to ask”. If you are still looking for a caterer for your event she will be having a tasting at her new location at the end of the month.

Jacque Dearing Co-owner and Designer of Thee Wedding Warehouse, home of EnDearing Floral Design spoke of details and DYI tips. She fielded questions on color combinations and linen ideas.

Mike Cimino of Event Centrale - DJ’s did a slide show presentation on “Take your reception to the next level and leave your guests talking about it for a long time”. Tips included a custom recorded song, up-lighting, go-bo, fabric draping, and entry for the grand entrance. Christine Valenzuela of KISS THE CAMERA was the next to speak on “Photography from a recent bride’s point of view”. Being a recent bride herself gave her insight that she shared with other brides.

Last event of the day of Cake Decorating by The Cake Contessa. We had a full house of brides that wanted to learn how to be the “cake boss”. Most of them brought a few friends and showed off their decorating stills. Lanette taught them not only how to cut and roll fondant but how to make flowers and decorate their own personalized cake that they got to take home. Everyone enjoyed this hands on experience. Lanette does at home classes that can be customized to any event (Birthday – Bridal Shower).

Heather Peterson owner of Pure Radiance did mini make up trails on brides all day. Hair style books were available to help choose the prefect bridal up do. The splurge which I don’t consider a splurge is having a make-up artist come to the bride on the day of the wedding to do hair and make-up. This way it eliminates the running around trying to get ready, traveling from place to place.

Appetizers were served by All About Catering, Co. Cakes samples were served by The Cake Contessa and Custom Cakes by Elizabeth.

Last but not least… Chris Smith owner of A2Z Photobooths was here letting everyone get their picture taken in the booth. A souvenir of Summer School for brides. The guests love this and it is a perfect favor.

If you missed this event but would like to set up a complimentary appointment with Thee Wedding Fairy, call 623-536-0995. We would love to help you with your wedding.

Arm Yourself With Knowledge Before Purchasing the Ring

Arm Yourself With Knowledge Before Purchasing the Ring

The dramatic moment of proposal is one that has been depicted countless times: the man on one knee, perhaps, with a velvet ring box in his hand and a shocked, happy look on the face of his fiance. But although the actual act of proposal is one that everyone probably knows all about, the process of actually choosing a wedding ring is surprisingly obscure.


That's too bad, because there are a good number of things that you should educate yourself about before buying promise rings or engagement rings. It isn't, or at least shouldn't be, as simple as just walking into a store and picking out a shiny ring. That's a good way to wind up paying too much for an average ring; better to do some research on your own so that you can be educated to make the best possible choice.


There are a few things to consider before buying a ring, chief among them budget. Diamonds can cost a lot or a little, enough to strain any budget. If your budget is small, it may be wise to consider alternative stones, such as sapphires. Gemstones may be a good choice because they are generally less expensive than diamonds and also come in a wide array of colors. On the other hand, many women expect a diamond in their wedding ring, as that is the traditional stone. So, if you are not popping the question completely out of the blue, it's a good idea to discuss what she's looking for before you buy a ring. Imagine how embarrassing (not to mention how expensive) it would be if your wife-to-be accepted your offer but hated the ring!


Another good reason to educate yourself about rings is so that you can recognize a good deal from a rip-off. It's best to compare prices at several stores, and possibly look into buying rings from online stores. A number of reputable online stores now sell wedding rings, and often at a reduced price from jewelry stores. If you first take a quick walk into a store to find rings that you like, you can go online later and compare prices. Buying online does have certain issues, such as difficulty returning items and the problem of choosing the right sizing.

If you just do a little research before buying, you can save yourself a lot of headaches further down the line. A wedding ring represents a significant investment (in addition to representing the strength of a marriage), so it just makes sense to get the best deal possible. In addition to saving yourself money, you can also ensure that you get the best ring possible by shopping around and taking a good look at the options.

Guest Writer

Pammy Rosen
MyJewelryBox

10.10.10

10.10.10

Are you still trying to decide on your wedding date? The Raven Golf Club at Verrado just had an opening for October 10th, 2010! How would you like your anniversary to be on 10/10/10?

The Raven Golf Club at Verrado is beautifully located at the base of the White Tank Mountains, offering fantastic views of the surrounding mountains, lakes and golf course. The setting is unmatched in the West Valley and must be experienced to be fully appreciated.

Our staff of professionals combines the finest elements with the most beautiful wedding location to ensure an unforgettable experience.

With a wide range of wedding packages we know you’ll find the perfect choice for your particular needs and budget. Please take a few minutes to review the attached wedding packages.

Please do not hesitate to call or e-mail me if you have any questions, or would like to set up an appointment to see our property first hand. You can reach me directly at (623) 388-3017 or email at Msiemons@ravenverrado.net . We would love the opportunity to help plan your "big day".

Life’s journey together should begin with the most memorable of celebrations. The Raven Golf Club at Verrado will help you make your vision a reality.

Please visit the following website to view a wedding at our location

http://www.freshlookimages.com/slideshows/jpw1_10/jpw1_10.html

http://bridesforbrides.com/duke/

Catering Special by Cake Contessa

Cake Contessa's Chef Lanette Ramero has been in the food and beverage industry for 14 years, working at several upscale resorts such as the Royal Hawaiian, in Oahu, The Kapalua Bay hotel in Maui and the Ritz Carlton. In all of these resorts Lanette has worked side by side with some of the best chefs in the country. She Graduated with a full Culinary degree as well as the baking in pastry from The Art Institute of Seattle in 2000.

What sets our food apart from any other catering company is our attention to detail. We personally inspect everything that leaves our kitchen, making sure that is of top quality and presentation. We will go the extra step that makes your event memorable for you and your guests. Most of our products are also made from scratch breads, crackers, pastas. We don't take more than one event at a time, making sure your event is our only priority. Our banquet captain has 21 years of experience from The Ritz Carlton, all of our staff has been extensively trained. We look forward to your next event!

Reserve your spot by August 15th and receive your choice of chocolate covered strawberries or an additional appetizer.

Sample Menu

$22~person
Your choice of 4 appetizers
Action Station
Fresh squeezed lemonade or iced tea
Action Station options
Potato Martini
Pasta (Steak or chicken)
Fajita (Steak or chicken)
Salad choice of Caesar, Strawberry spinach

Your choice of 4 appetizers
Kalamata artichoke tart with sun dried tomatoes
Mini beef Wellington
Pepper-crusted steak with horseradish cream
Rice-paper rolls with Vietnamese dipping sauce
Ginger-hoisin beef and scallions on crispy noodle cakes
White bean bruchetta
Pizzette with fontina, tomato, basil
Grape blue cheese pecan canape
Spicy Peanut Satay chicken
Stuffed mushrooms sage pancetta
Grilled vegetable Platters
Chips salsa guacamole
Mini quesadillas
Smoked Corn and New Mexican Goat Cheese Empanaditas


Reserve your spot by August 15th and receive your choice of chocolate covered strawberries or an additional appetizer.

Photos courtesy of Cyndi Hardy Photography

Cake Decorating Workshop

The Cake Contessa and Thee Wedding Warehouse had our first EVER BRIDES cake decorating workshop. The brides to be that attended this event learned to frost and fill there very own 6 inch cakes. Later they covered each one in fondant, learning that its not quite as easy as it looks on tv. We made flowers such as calla lily’s, daisies, and roses all from fondant. Piping, scrolling and borders were all done in buttercream. For the finally a damask stencil! The ladies were quite excited about learning to stencil.
Each person got to take home there own spatula, fondant mat, and froster tip along with there cake.
Cake flavors were red velvet, chocolate, and vanilla bean.
The Cake Contessa and Thee Wedding Warehouse are very excited about the cake decorating workshops, our next one will be held on July 17th, and reservations are required, we will also have many other things going on at Thee Wedding Warehouse that day so mark your calander!! And give us a call!



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Lanette Romero
www.thecakecontessa.com
480-720-7104