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!



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

Out of this World - Wigwam Events

June 6th-June 10th
Sunday

6:00am-8:00am- Starbucks Coffee & Morning Fitness Walk: Adobe Trading Post*

6:30am-6:30pm- Pamper & Play: Golfers receive a Fifty Minute Massage at Red Door Spa for just $50 after your round
(Spa hours are 9:00am-8:00pm)*

7:00am-11:00am- Hickman’s Family Farm Breakfast Buffet ($12.96 for Adults & $6.50 for Children Ages 5-12):

The Grill & Patio*
7:00am-3:00pm - Family Tee Time: Kids 15 & Under Golf Free when accompanied by a paying adult*

10:00am-10:00pm- Teen Gaming Room: Palo Verde

3:00pm-5:00pm- Nine & Dine Tee Times; Nine holes of golf, a burger & a beer for two for just $49:
The Grill*
4:10pm- MLB Colorado Rockies at the AZ Diamondbacks: The Grill

4:30pm-6:30pm- Happy Hour: Red’s, Kachina & The Grill*

5:00pm- NBA Championship Series Game 2: LA Lakers vs. Boston Celtics: Kachina Lounge

5:00pm- NHL Stanley Cup Finals Game 4: Philadelphia Flyers at Chicago Blackhawks: Red’s

Bar
5:30pm-7:00pm- Dinner On Own

7:00pm-10:00pm- Marshmallow Roasting & S’mores: Kachina Patio (available for purchase at the Kachina Lounge,
$5 per bag)*

Monday- Thursday
6:00am-8:00am- Starbucks Coffee & Morning Fitness Walk: Adobe Trading Post*

7:00am-6:30pm- Pamper & Play: Golfers receive a Fifty Minute Massage at Red Door Spa for just $50 after your round
(Spa hours are 9:00am-8:00pm)*

7:00am-3:00pm- Family Tee Time: Kids 15 & Under Golf Free when accompanied by a paying adult*

8:30am-9:30am- Wigwam Kid’s Tennis Clinic: Program designed for Children Ages 4 and Up with little or no tennis
experience. ($15 per hour per child)*

9:00am-5:00pm- Mommy & Me Manicures: Kids 12 & Under are Free when accompanied by a paying adult*

10:00am-10:30am- Cerreta’s Chocolate Factory Guided Tour: 5345 W. Glendale Ave, Glendale

10:00am-10:00pm- Teen Gaming Room: Palo Verde (Sign out controllers & games at the front desk)
3:00pm-3:30pm- Cerreta’s Chocolate Factory Guided Tour: 5345 W. Glendale Ave,

Glendale
3:00pm-5:00pm- Nine & Dine Tee Times; Nine holes of golf, a burger & a beer for two for just $49: The Grill*

4:00pm-5:00pm- Complimentary Range Balls (Wigwam overnight guests only)

4:30pm-6:30pm- Happy Hour: Vodka Thursday Featuring Absolut (1/2 off all Absolut
cocktails): The Grill*

5:30pm-7:00pm- Dinner On Own

7:00pm -10:00pm- Marshmallow Roasting & S’mores: Adobe Fire Pit (available for purchase at the Kachina Lounge,
$5 per bag)*

7:30pm- Native American Campfire, Wigwam History: Adobe Fire Pit (will meet and head to the Tee Pee)

*Participation in these activities requires a nominal fee. Unless noted otherwise, all events will take place at the Main (Adobe) Pool
at designated times. Activities and times are subject to change. For more information please contact 623.935.3811
Themed Happy Hour at The Grill- Features and cocktails made with the feature are ½ during Happy Hour

Monday: Arizona Beer Night "Monday Mugs"
Featuring Fat Tire

Tuesday: Tequila Tuesday
Featuring Patron Reposado

Wednesday: Wine Wednesday
Featuring Schloss Vollrads Riesling

Thursday: Vodka Thursday
Featuring Three Olives Cherry

Sports on the Big Screen
Sunday: NHL Stanley Cup Finals Game 5: Philadelphia Flyers at Chicago Blackhawks, 5pm: Red’s Bar

Sunday: NBA Championship Series Game 2: LA Lakers vs. Boston Celtics, 5pm: Kachina Lounge

Monday: MLB Atlanta Braves at the AZ Diamondbacks, 6:40pm: The Grill

Tuesday: NBA Championship Series Game 3: LA Lakers vs. Boston Celtics, 6pm: The Grill

Tuesday: MLB Atlanta Braves at the AZ Diamondbacks, 6:40pm: Red’s Bar

Wednesday: MLB Atlanta Braves at the AZ Diamondbacks, 6:40pm: The Grill

Wednesday: NHL Stanley Cup Finals Game 6: Chicago Blackhawks at Philadelphia Flyers, 5pm: Red’s Bar

Thursday: MLB Atlanta Braves at the AZ Diamondbacks, 12:40pm: The Grill

Thursday: NBA Championship Series Game 4: LA Lakers vs. Boston Celtics, 6pm: Kachina Lounge

Red Door Spa Special Offers
Swedish Massage or Essential Facial - $99.00
Warm Cream Manicure/Pedicure Combo - $65.00
Red Door Signature Massage +Comp Olive Oil Body Scrub - $115
Red Door Signature Facial + Comp Collagen - $120

Local Attractions
For tickets and more information please visit Front Desk or Concierge.

Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium- Wigwam guest receive complimentary children admission when accompanied by a paying adult.

Wet n’ Wild- Arizona's Biggest 'n' Best waterpark Wigwam guest are offered discounted passes at $25 per person

Arizona Science Center- Wigwam guest receive complimentary children admission when accompanied by a paying adult.

Harkins Theatres- While visiting us at the Wigwam you can enjoy a trip to see the newest features films at Harkins Theatres