It's A Beautiful Day Outside...and I'm Also Feeling Very Sad...

In Memory of Michael

I am feeling very sad today.

A wonderful couple whom I am marrying at the end of May tragically lost their 15-year-old son this past Monday. Michael is the beloved son of the Bride, Tammy, and this loss came out of nowhere.

Truthfully, there are no words in this moment.

I have the honor of creating and officiating Michael's Memorial Service which will be held this Monday, March 16th. I treasure this wedding work that I do and I also have the privilege of creating and delivering personalized memorials and life tributes.

So, today, I am taking a breath...and a walk in the nearby Grand Forest with our four dogs with gratitude for all blessings in life. And at the same time, my heart goes out to Michael's family.

Annemarie

www.endfinity.com

www.annemariejuhlian.com

Congratulations to Derek and Amy Warren! A Most Intimate & Beautiful Ceremony At The Sorrento Hotel, Seattle, WA.

The Wonderful Derek and Amy Warren
Sorrento Hotel, 2009

Marvelous Photo by Jenny GG: http://www.jennyggphotography.com/

Derek and Amy's intimate and wonderful wedding ceremony at The Sorrento Hotel on February 28th went off without a hitch!

One of the sweetest moments during the ceremony was when Derek presented Amy's daughter with a beautiful necklace and whispered a few private words.

Jenny GG of http://www.jennyggphotography.com/ captured this evening beautifully and Kristen Leah at the Sorrento Hotel added touches to insure the evening was beautiful, memorable and most of all, flawless!

Congratulations, Derek & Amy!

Annemarie

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http://www.annemariejuhlian.com/

425 922 1325

Congratulations to Ian and Jordan - A Contemporary and Joyful Wedding To The Max!

Ian and Jordan DeWeerd, February 28, 2009

The Sheraton Hotel, Seattle, WA

Photo Goddess Clare Barboza at www.claremariephotography.com

I had the marvelous honor of officiating Ian and Jordan's wedding ceremony this past Saturday evening. It was an absolute joy for me to work with Ian and Jordan to craft, write and create their ceremony which was shared with 160 of their family and friends high in the sky at the downtown Sheraton Seattle Hotel. From the ceremony music, to Jordan's gorgeous gown and accessories, to Ian's checkered shoes, to their beautiful vows and more - it was a night to remember.

And Clare Barboza captured their wedding perfectly! You can see her beautiful work on her blog at: http://claremariephotography.blogspot.com/

Ian and Jordan, I wish you a fun and relaxing honeymoon!

Annemarie

http://www.annemariejuhlian.com/
425 922 1325

Your Wedding Day - Rain or Shine!

The Marvelous Coleen & Bernie - Weather Mania!

The Chapel At Port Gamble

Coleen and Bernie's wedding ceremony and celebration at Port Gamble was truly "weather mania!"

We're talking snow, rain, intense cold, sunshine - all in a five hour period!

If you are planning a Winter or Spring wedding, weather is what it is. And what's true is that it does indeed add to the texture of the day. During Coleen and Bernie's wedding, the weather was absolutely nuts and family and friends took this all in stride and now "weather mania" is now one imperfect and wonderful memory to take from this day.

GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR WEDDING FAVORS & SAVE MONEY...

Mmmm... Okay, this isn't exactly a wedding ceremony topic but it is one close to my heart - baking!

I officiated Tara and Clark's wedding ceremony this past Saturday evening and left with a marvelous goodie bag filled with absolutely delicious cookies!

I was very taken with this cute and fun favor idea because:
- it is very personalized
- people could "mix and match the cookies"
- children especially loved this!

Getting Creative With Your "Presentation Of The Rings" - Kick It Up A Bit!

No matter if your ceremony is formal or casual, large or intimate, most likely there are wedding rings to be presented.

If you have having a wedding with a processional or an intimate gathering, consider a unique way to present your rings.

I encourage a couple to ask a special relative or friend to contribute an item on which to present the rings. This could be a book, a beautiful old-fashioned pillow w/a story, a crafted box, in a special shell from a sentimental place or perhaps looped around the neck of a stuffed childhood animal. This way, instead of the "usual pillow," you have a beautiful memento to take home from your ceremony and you have honored a special person in your life.

Annemarie

www.annemariejuhlian.com
425 922 1325

Yes, There Is Such A Thing As A Wedding On Superbowl Sunday!

JR and Nicole Salmon

February 1, 2009, The Edgewater Hotel

How I enjoyed the marvelous opportunity to share in JR and Nicole Salmon's wedding day!

Their sweet daughter was a highlight of their wedding ceremony, walking down the aisle with her Mommy in full petal girl glory!

This was a large wedding at The Edgewater Hotel and JR and Nicole worked with me to create a ceremony that was uniquely their own. The focus was on their loving partnership and it also included their charming little girl with beautiful words and a special gift.

Jr and Nicole, thank you for the privilege of sharing in your wedding day - and on Superbowl Sunday, too!

Annemarie

www.annemariejuhlian.com
425 922 1325

Creating, Crafting and Delivering Your Interfaith Wedding Ceremony. It Truly Is A Tapestry...

Rich and Patricia - A Chuppah And Four Good Friends

Stimson Green Mansion, January 26, 2009

Beautiful Photo Courtesy of Dani Weiss: www.daniweissphotography.com

I had the honor of officiating Rich and Patricia's Interfaith wedding ceremony a week or so ago. Their wedding ceremony was blessed under a Chuppah and their multi-faith ceremony included beautiful elements from some of the world's most beautiful faiths and traditions.

If you are celebrating different faiths and beliefs/backgrounds within your wedding ceremony, there is great latitude in how you build and create your wedding ceremony. Find an Officiant who will work directly with you to incorporate your personal elements and pieces that are heartfelt and poignant.

Your wedding ceremony is a tapestry of sorts - it weaves together the past, the present and the future. Take on the wonderful opportunity to make it truly your own.

Annemarie

http://www.annemariejuhlian.com/

425 922 1325

Looking Ahead To Summer - And Weddings By The Water/In the Direct Sunshine...

Signing Tiffany & Bill's Marriage License - Dockside!

wonderful photo by Jeremy Phipps: www.jeremyphipps.blogspot.com

Bill and Tiffany perfectly timed their Summer '08 wedding ceremony on the shore of Lake Union with the natural light of the evening sun. It wasn't too sunny and it wasn't too dark - just perfect.

As you look ahead to your wedding ceremony this year, consider a few things if you're planning your wedding by the water's edge or in direct sunshine:

- Water's Edge: If you are being married at the water, consider boats, gawkers and general noise. There are many fabulous venues around the Puget Sound area that are quiet, serene and perfect for a wedding ceremony. However, at some area waterfront areas and parks (even a few well-known reception venues!), consider how people in/on the water and around the space will/may impact your ceremony.

- Sunshine: There is nothing like being married in beautiful weather. And if you are being married outdoors, re-consider being married in direct sunshine. A little natural shade or created shade makes it much more comfortable for the couple (especially if it's very warm) and also makes for more beautiful pictures, i.e., there isn't as much squinting!

www.annemariejuhlian.com
425 922 1325

Using Your Engagement Time To Deepen Your Relationship...To Walk With Ease And Grace Into Your Wedding Day.

Gloria DeGaetano, M.Ed.
Parent and Pre-Marriage Coach & Consultant

Yes, it's true. A wedding, as wonderful and magical as the experience may be, tends to bring up "stuff." Not only for you, the loving and engaged couple, but for your family and friends as well.

A wedding - a marriage - is a ritual and huge life transition, no matter what age or stage of life. In this ceremony work that I do, I have the privilege of knowing couples at a deeper level as we work together to create and deliver a ceremony that reflects their beliefs, mission, community and love story.

As you move toward your wedding day, I encourage you to create your own "pre-marriage" curriculum or series of conversations to deepen your relationship. Or I invite you to sit down with a Pre-Marriage Coach like the wonderful Gloria DeGaetano, M.Ed., for 4-6 sessions, to have positive and pro-active facilitated conversations/sessions about your relationship, family issues, money, intimacy, challenges/joys - everything that a long-term loving marriage is about.

Gloria and her husband, David, have been married for 25+ years, raised two amazing sons and share a beautiful marriage that is a role model for those around them. Visit Gloria at: www.gloriadegaetano.blogspot.com or email her at gloria@thepci.org for information about availability and services/rates.

Sincerely,
Annemarie www.annemariejuhlian.com 425 922 1325

What I've Learned For Sure About "The Mother of the Groom"...

The Exchange of Rings - Brenda & Chris, Poulsbo, WA

beautiful photo: www.laurencekim.com

The Mother of the Groom. I've had the pleasure of meeting so many women whose sons are getting married. And interestingly enough, I'm not sure I know anything for sure about "the Mother of the Groom."

And so, I ponder this thought on this late Friday evening...

- Why do I occasionally feel that the Mother of the Groom seems to be pushed to the side with regard to wedding planning and her role in a wedding?

hmmmm....

As you are planning your wedding, consider that with all of the hoopla that goes with all things "wedding," to fully include your Mother of the Groom as appropriate. Shower her with emails, invite her to gatherings, give her a role in the ceremony beyond walking down the aisle. Consider using your wedding as a stepping stone to a deeper relationship with your Mother-in-Law to be - no matter what the status of your relationship - close and intimate, touchy and cautious, curious in all ways or inspiring in all ways!

Involving Children In Your Wedding Ceremony - Giving A "Big Job" Brings Much Joy and Laughter, too...

Vaughn Helps His Mommy and Daddy With the Unity Candle

Wedding of Barry & April, Salty's on Alki

I had the honor of officiating Barry and April Wressel's ceremony and their son, Vaughn, did a stellar job as the official ring bearer!

Giving children a "job" within a wedding ceremony creates such wonderful memories. And depending on the age of the child, this often creates a childhood memory for life.

If you have a child or children, work with your Officiant to include them not only in the processional/recessional but within the ceremony. I often contemporize the traditional unity candle ritual so that it is personalized and memorable for the specific couple or children. And there are other sweet and wonderful rituals to consider depending on what you want for your ceremony.

Creating Elements Of Your Wedding Ceremony - Some Sacred, Some Contemporary...Perhaps A Little Fun?

The Very Wonderful Dan and Kellie Cocoran

The Arctic Club Hotel, 2008

Photo: Kate McElwee www.katemcelweephotography.com

As I sit here on this New Year's morning, I'm very, very excited and hopeful for this new year. And I'm very grateful for the amazing opportunity to do this heartfelt work.

If you are embarking on the journey of "what do we want for our wedding ceremony, " and/or what do you want AND don't want for your ceremony, here are a few things to consider:

1) Your wedding ceremony is your opportunity to celebrate your loving partnership and the tribe of people who love you. So, with this said, work with your Officant/Minister to co-create a ceremony that is truly you - or as I'm fond of saying, "tastes, feels and looks" like the two of you.

- Incorporate personal elements or perhaps unique pieces into your ceremony. Ideas to ponder: including your dog in the ceremony, a wonderful surprise, unique and deeply personalized wedding vows which include a bit of elegant humor, creating a sweet ritual which includes your wedding party in the ceremony, or perhaps exchanging love letters to be opened on your first anniversary.

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- The process of "getting to your wedding day" is a journey of anticipation, chaos, joy, indecision and elation - much like life itself. By using your wedding ceremony as the "foundation" of your wedding day, you set the tone for the reception/celebration. So, kick it up a bit and venture between the world of the past and today.

www.annemariejuhlian.com

Looking Back On The Year 2008 - With Gratitude And Appreciation To The Couples Who Said "Yes, I Do!"

A Few Moments with Nathan Before 6:00 p.m.

beautiful photo by the marvelous Brooke Hendricks:

http://www.hendrickskimphotography.com/

Each year, I am so deeply touched by the couples who invite me to create and deliver their wedding ceremonies. And most often, a couple invites me to share in their wedding day by trusting their instinct that we're a lovely fit to partner in the ceremony portion of the day.

As we roll into December, I want to say "thank you" to the couples who have trusted me with their wedding ceremony and to the couples I will have the honor of working with in '09. I cherish this work that I do and in many ways, I continue to thrive and grow in this beautiful work.

Above is a photo that I absolutely love. It was taken a few minutes before Nathan's wedding ceremony this past Summer - we took a minute together and while I don't remember this exact moment, I love this photo because it is "real" - tender, sweet and a little funny, too.

Here is to more real moments throughout 2009...

Writing Your Wedding Vows - Traditional, Contemporary or Truly Your Own...

Jenny's Vows to Jason, 2008

Jason and Jennie Melton, The Edgewater Hotel

Writing Your Wedding Vows. For most engaged couples that I work with, this often comes with a kaleidoscope of feeling: trepidation, excitement, unknowing, intimdation, exciting challenge and so much more.

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I often work with couples to write their vows. And there are many ways to do this. You may write your own vows with my assistance. You may write your own vows and send them to me separately and share as a "surprise" during your ceremony. Or perhaps you'd like me to write a personalized set of vows for the two of you that are alike or most likely, very different.

Either way, as a Celebrant and Officiant, I've witnessed many wonderful vow exchanges. And here is what is true: if your vows are heartfelt, poignant, from your heart and "real," all is good.

More Popular Than Ever - Planning Your Holiday Weekend Wedding...

Sam and Melanie, 2008

Robinswood House, Bellevue, Washington

Holiday Weekends are very popular for weddings. Really! This coming Thanksgiving holiday weekend, I have four wonderful weddings as couples often use the "buffer days" of a holiday weekend for extra time with out-of-town family and friends.

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If you're considering a wedding on a holiday weekend:

- send out "save the date cards" earlier than usual for planning purposes.

- book your hotel rooms for out-of-town guests early, particularly during the popular Summer months.

- consider a post-wedding Brunch or BBQ as a way to "tie a bow" on the wedding weekend.

- beware of special events "around town" and plan accordingly, i.e., timing of ceremony, etc.

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Planning Your 2009 Wedding - Thoughts and Ponderings From the Ceremony Side...

Congratulations to Nathan and Brenda!

Summer of 2008 - Kensington Gardens, Gig Harbor, WA

photo: Brooke Hendricks (thank you, Brooke!)

www.hendrickskimphotography.com

Planning your wedding for next year?

This is the time of year (Fall/Winter) when I meet with couples who are putting the planning pieces together - small weddings, unusual weddings, large and formal affairs, a casual home affair, a wedding by the sea and so much more.

And here's what I know for sure as I move into 2009:

- When planning your wedding ceremony, focus on the "two of you." What you want and desire for your ceremony and how you can incorporate your family and friends in a meaningful way that will create a memory for a lifetime. Your ceremony is a "one time only" ritual - give it the respect and care it deserves - whether formal or casual, large or intimate.

- Remember that you can "swing both ways" - within your ceremony, you have the lovely opportunity to incorporate traditional pieces/elements and contemporary elements. This is true whether you are religious, spiritual or secular.

- And most of all, consider the possibility of a weekday wedding for serious savings and don't put off or miss the opportunity for an immediate honeymoon. Even if your post-wedding time together is a day, a few days or a week or two, take the time to decompress and truly relish in the joy of starting your new partnership - together.

Dan and Kellie's Wedding Day At The Arctic Club Hotel - Seattle

Dan and Kellie Cocoran

The Arctic Club Hotel - September 27, 2008

Dan and Kellie Corcoran's beautiful wedding ceremony and evening celebration at the Arctic Club Hotel at the end of September was a marvelous and memorable event. Dan and Kellie were married in the remodeled hotel's historic "dome room" and the evening candle lit ceremony was attended by 130 family and friends.

This was a wedding that I not only officiated but also served as "day of coordinator," as I do this for a handful of my couples each year. Kate McElwee of www.katemcelweephotography.com captured the day with beautiful photos including the one above and the hotel's catering coordinator, Carmen del Rosario, was truly delightful to work with - the hotel staff went above and beyond for Dan and Kellie on their wedding day.

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Dan and Kellie, I wish you a blessed married life together!

Annemarie

Wedding Dogs Are A Perfect Complement to A Wedding Ceremony!

Brian & Andrea's Wedding Dogs, "Riggs" and "Dog"

Lord Hills Farm, September 6, 2008

Brian and Andrea Britton-Simmons wedding ceremony was a favorite of mine this Summer. Their beautiful wedding ceremony was held outdoors at a magnificent venue in Snohomish and three canine ring bearers stole the show! Riggs and Dog (pictured above) did double duty as "ring dogs" and tiny wedding dog, Ms. Bella, pranced down the aisle with her big brothers.

I absolutely love incorporating a couple's beloved dog(s) into a wedding ceremony. Dogs can do nothing wrong at a wedding and they bring such joy to family and friends!

Venues That Are High In The Sky, i.e., Elevators = Allow Time For Guests!

The Very Wonderful Cesar and Alexa Juarez

Seattle Harbor Club, September 20, 2008

**beautiful photo by Jennifer Guzman, www.f7photography.com

I was so happy to share in Cesar and Alexa's wedding day a few weeks ago. This is a marvelous and elegant couple and their wedding ceremony was both traditional and contemporary in tone, elements and rituals.

And riding up the elevator at the Seattle Harbor Club reminds me that weddings which are "high in the sky" are more elegant when a couple allows for extra time due to elevators. Cesar and Alexa put a 6:00 p.m. start time on their invitation (we planned on starting at 6:15 p.m. or so and did) and this served this couple very well as guests were elegantly greeted/seated and time was allowed for downtown parking and the elevator.

So, "high in the sky" = allow for extra time and "wiggle room" for your family and friends!

The Rykels-Wilson Wedding: September 13, 2008 - Beautiful In All Ways...

David & Jessie Wilson

September 13, 2008, Court in The Square/Seattle

marvelous photo: www.photoelan.com

Congratulations to David and Jessie Wilson!

David and Jessie were married in front of 200 of their family and friends at the marvelous Court in the Square venue in Pioneer Square. It was a beautiful Saturday evening a few weeks ago and what I absolutely loved about this couple was their generosity, endearing commitment to one another, and how we worked together to create a ceremony that was part traditional, part contemporary and with a dash or two of humor, creativity and spunk!

The Perfect Wedding? No. Let's Go For Those Unexpected And Beautiful Moments Instead....

Bill and Tiffany Janes

Center for Wooden Boats, Lake Union 9/5/08

wonderful photo by Photographer Jeremy Phipps

Bill and Tiffany were married on a marvelous Friday afternoon at the Center for Wooden Boats on Lake Union. What I loved about this couple was how they "sailed away!" As we completed their waterside ceremony, and to the cheers of family and friends, Bill and Tiffany boarded a gorgeous sail boat at the nearby dock and "sailed away" for a few moments alone.

As I watched Bill and Tiffany move from the dock, I was struck with how beautiful the actual moment was. It just was. Sometimes poignant and unexpected moments within a wedding day catch you by surprise - for me, this was one of them.

Planning Your 2009 Wedding - A Few Tips From "Behind The Scenes..."

Love Those Smiles! Derrick & Liz

August, 2008 ~ Ed Hume Seeds Company

As I meet with couples this month and throughout the Fall for 2009, I'd like to share a few tips for your ceremony that will help you save money:

- Plan Your Ceremony For Mid-Day and Enjoy Brunch or Lunch: You'll save money by getting married in the late morning or early afternoon - enjoy a celebration lunch or brunch instead of a more formal or lavish dinner.

- Plan a Weekday Wedding, i.e., Monday-Friday: That's right! More of my couples are getting married on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evening and save on all vendor categories. In addition, these couples are getting a significant discount from their venue/reception site for booking space that "is just sitting there."

- Stay "Local" - You'll save money by staying "local" and will avoid some of the hidden expenses of destination weddings, i.e., more hotel nights, transportation expenses for vendors, etc.

JAY AND SARAH'S WEDDING AT SAFECO FIELD - They met there, they married there!

Jay and Sarah Montgomery

August 18, 2008, SAFECO FIELD

beautiful photo: www.kylemillerphoto.com

What a fun and fabulous afternoon! Congratulations to Jay and Sarah Montgomery who were married on August 18th at homeplate, SAFECO FIELD.

Jay and Sarah met at SAFECO FIELD and celebrated their wedding among close family and friends on a wonderful Monday afternoon.

Jay and Sarah, I wish you much happiness and joy as you move into your married life together!

Your Officiant and Friend, Annemarie

A Wedding Can Be Chaotic OR It Can Be A Peaceful And Joyful Experience...

The Very Wonderful Jason and Jennie Melton!

August 3, 2008, The Edgewater Hotel

** beautiful photo by www.redfishphoto.com and Scott & Jennifer Matsuda

LABOR DAY WEDDING WEEKEND IS OVER - Now, I can breathe. Over the years, I find more couples are being married on "holiday weekends," to take advantage of the extra days for guest travel and time with family and friends.

This past weekend, I had marvelous weddings - weddings which were peaceful, oganized and at ease and two in particular that were chaotic, unorganized and frenetic. In one case, when I arrived Sunday evening at 6:30 p.m. for the 7:30 p.m. ceremony, I found a reception room still being set-up, flowers were waiting in boxes to be made into complex centerpieces and the wedding party was spread all over a venue complex, making things extra difficult to pull the event together.

Being the organizer that I am, I got to work on setting up the tables and place settings for this lovely couple because I just couldn't stand to the side and "watch things." In the end, everything went off beautifully - AND - it could have been easier.

What is the key to a peaceful wedding day? Recognizing that weddings "just don't happen" or "magically come together." Consider investing in the talents of a day-of wedding coordinator or engage two or three friends (not family) who will take specific planning parts of the day so the bride/groom and family can fully experience the day's moments.

Congratulations to MacKenzie and Eric - and Sweet Baby Kennedy!

MacKenzie & Eric and Baby Kennedy

Summer, 2008

Throughout the year, I get unexpected and wonderful emails from couples whom I have married, often with marvelous news to share.

Today, I got an email from MacKenzie and Eric and it made my day. MacKenzie and Eric were married on a very rainy and blustery July day in 2006 at the wonderful Kiana Lodge on Agate Pass. And this couple didn't let a few rain drops or a complete change in ceremony plans alter their kindness, passion or understanding of what a "wedding day" really is - i.e., the very first step on a long marriage journey!

Sam & Melanie's Wedding Day - and Wedding Dog Bailey's Day, too!

Sam & Melanie Chamaty

Robinswood House, August 10, 2008

Wonderful Photo by: www.weddingsbyaziel.com

This Summer season, I have had such wonderful couples. Couples who embrace a conscious, connected and adventurous sense of marriage partnership.

And this goes for Sam and Melanie Chamaty - married under a beautiful Chuppah at Robinswood House in Bellevue at high Noon on Sunday, August 10th.

Sam and Melanie's interfaith ceremony was a wonderful affair - complete with different traditions, humor and joy and topping things off was "Wedding Dog" Bailey and his "canine email" and "bearing of the rings."

Congratulations, Sam and Melanie!

With Gratitude and Friendship,
Annemarie

No Matter What Faith Or Tradition, Elegant Humor In A Ceremony Always Works....

The New Mr. and Mrs. Jeff & Anita Mortaloni!

The Salish Lodge, Summer, 2008

Jeff and Anita's wedding ceremony was a marvelous experience. It contained traditional elements, contemporary pieces and well-placed humor and lots of joy.

No matter what faith or tradition, appropriate humor - especially in the first few minutes of a ceremony - relaxes everyone. If written and delivered well, humof helps to ground a couple and morefully engages the participation of family and friends.

So, as you create your ceremony, add humor as is comfortable for you. And consider breaking out of the mold and kicking it up a bit. Ritual is beautiful, comfortable and familiar - and humor just adds a contemporary lift that creates beautiful memories.

Seafair Weekend and "Wedding Mania!" - Plan and Be Extra Ready For This Weekend!

Happy One Year Anniversary to Andy and Kristen!

Sumner, Washington

If you are getting married this coming weekend in Seattle, I invite you to be "Seafair aware!"

The bridges will be closed mid-day starting Thursday thru Sunday which can create chaos with some wedding guests who don't plan on this - and end up arriving late. This can also include key members of the wedding party and immediate family.

So, if you're attending a wedding or it's your wonderful wedding, put out a "Wedding 911" to "get across the bridge in time!"

Bring On Those Cute and Remarkable "Ring Bearers" and "Petal Girls"...

Congratulations to Nora and Moe and their beautiful family!

June, 2008 - Tacoma, Washington

Within a wedding ceremony, children bring such joy.

Whether it's walking down an aisle and going the wrong way, sitting down in the middle of the aisle for a "moment" or perhaps freezing up in the middle of throwing rose petals, at a wedding it is all good!

Children love weddings. They love the feeling of having a "big job" on a "big day." And children guarantee that a wedding ceremony will often be unpredictable or imperfect. In this work that I love so much (and I see so much), I admire couples for giving little ones a big moment to shine. So, give children important things to do within a processional or ceremony and let the joy and smiles just unfold.

The Big Question: After The Ceremony is Over, "Then What?"

John and Rebecca, Kiana Lodge, Poulsbo

"A Few Moments Alone After The Ceremony"

I'm not a big fan of wedding receiving lines. This goes for casual or formal weddings, small or large guest lists. I'm also not a big fan of having a couple immediately greet family and friends immediately after their ceremony.

Why?

A wedding ceremony is a vulnerable and emotional life experience. I encourage each of my couples to take a few moments of private time - whether it's a few minutes or 15-20 minutes - to just "be" together. Most of my couples take advantage of this and use the time to be alone, put their feet up, take a walk or just snuggle and take in the first moments of "Gosh, we are really married!"

This also gives your family and friends a few minutes to get up, get something to drink and mix and mingle a bit. A wedding day goes so fast - capture and create "defining moments" and allow your post ceremony "quiet time" to be one of them.

Planning A Small and Intimate Wedding Ceremony? My Three Top Tips For A Memorable Experience...

Congratulations to David & Lisa!

"On their wonderful wedding day, West Seattle..."

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My husband, Greg and I, were married five years ago this week in a small ceremony in our backyard with two couples we love and our Officiant - oh yes, and our four dogs! A party and honeymoon cruise followed but when we look back on our ceremony, we have such wonderful memories - for us, it was perfect.

And having done this wonderful work now with many couples of different wants/needs, I offer you three of my favorite "top tips" for a marvelous and memorable "small ceremony experience."

1. 2-25 family/friends is a perfect "guest count" for a small wedding experience. Create a personalized wedding ceremony and involve each of your guests for an 'inclusive' and loving experience.

2. Enjoy a dinner or evening out immediately afterwards with your family and friends at a venue that can easily take care of all celebration details - i.e., Palisade Restaurant, The Space Needle, The Woodmark Hotel, the Herbfarm, etc. Taking your celebration to a restaurant or fancy hotel/resort takes any stress off of planning a celebration at a private residence - many less details to worry about!

3. Enjoy and take (don't put it off) a marvelous honeymoon - whether it is staying local for a few days or perhaps a cruise to Alaska (so easy from the Seattle waterfront!). We took our first cruise as our honeymoon and are taking our sixth cruise this Winter - it's become one of our favorite indulgences and brings back those "first married memories" every time.

Okay, What's With the "Traditional Guest Book?"

Congratulations to Al and Laurene Stappenbeck!

June 7, 2008, Cedarbrook Center

photo courtesy of Brian & Jennifer Hartman www.photoelan.com

Truth? I've been to many weddings.

And if I may be bold on this sunny Monday morning as I think about what works and what doesn't work at a wedding, I offer this thought: what is with the guest book?

All couples know who is attending their wedding so having guests sign their names seems to me to be a bit redundant. Not only does this often create an unwelcoming "long line" as guests arrive at your wedding, it doesn't offer a very elegant initial experience.

If you're thinking about a guest book, consider "nixing it" and going with something that may be ultimately more meaningful to you:

- a framed photo mat for personal written messages.

- a wishing tree for special notes to be opened on your first anniversary.

- a special welcoming drink with a fortune attached.

A guest book is a traditional piece to a wedding - think about what you truly want your guests to experience when they arrive at your ceremony and take it from there!

Invest with Confidence: A "Day Of" Wedding Coordinator Is Money Well Spent...

Luke and Amanda, DeLille Cellars, Woodinville, WA
"A Wonderful Early Summer Weekday Wedding"

In this marvelous work that I do, I work with a number of exceptional and highly respected Wedding Planners and Consultants. If you want to fully enjoy your day without worrying about details (small and big), consider hiring a Day Of Coordinator.

Yes, slice money from the favors and the flowers - go a bit "lighter" on the wedding cake and take the extra cash and put it toward somebody who can assist you with making your day extra wonderful.

This past weekend, I worked with Stephanie Wilson of Every Last Detail - www.eldweddings.net. Stephanie is a marvelous Wedding Planner and Consultant and like some of her peers, she works with weddings of all sizes and budgets. Take a peak at Stephanie's website for more information.

FAQ - "How Long Is A Wedding Ceremony?"

Congratulations to Randy and Megan Loctor!

Tacoma Museum of Glass 5.24.08

photo by: the marvelous Cheryl Jones www.inaframe.com

One of my frequent questions from a couple is simple and upfront: "How long is a wedding ceremony?"

Yes, the length of a ceremony is important. If it's too short, it feels "weird." And if it's too long, it can make a couple feel vulnerable and uncomfortable.

For me, length is about "how a ceremony" feels - not only to the couple but to family and friends. If a ceremony is well-written and well crafted, it will go by very quickly. You know that feeling you get when you're seeing a really good movie and you can't believe it's over? That kind of feeling.

And to answer this question: ceremony length depends on the specific couple as every situation is unique. And most often for me, a wedding ceremony ranges from 18-28 minutes in length.

Wonderful Resource For Readings, Verse & Poetry

Luke & Amanda, Delille Cellars, Woodinville WA

"leaving their wedding ceremony"

If you are looking for a tiny book full of poignant, unique and memorable readings/verse and poetry, find: "The Language of Marriage" by Gary Morris, Blue Mountain Arts.

"The arithmetic of love is unique:

two halves do not make a whole,

only two wholes make a whole."

- Jo Coudert

An Invisible Act of Courage and Resolve...

Marcus and Lana Steele, April, 2008

Bastyr Chapel, Kenmore, Washington

Fabulous Photo: www.aprilgreer.com

Tonight, I got an unexpected email from a favorite couple of mine: they are cancelling their July wedding ceremony and celebration. And my heart is with this couple as they both make their way through this week of "cancelling this" and "cancelling that."

And here is what I hold as true: nobody knows what truly goes on within a loving relationship except the two people involved. To cancel is to step up and take a courageous stand - it's a powerful choice that, while exceedingly difficult and heart-breaking, is a visible and invisible act of courage.

2008 "What In The World" Is Going On In The World Of Weddings?

Bernie & Coleen Brazeau

Friday, April 18, 2008, Port Gamble Church

Photo by Brad Camp: www.bradcampimages.com

Interested in a few wedding facts?

- The average US bride got engaged at age 26 and the average groom at 28.

- What type of wedding are you planning? Traditional still tops the list at 51% with 19% of couples going casual, 13% going formal, and only 2% of couples planning an extravagant wedding.

- How are you getting your wedding planning information? If you are like most people (84% to be exact), you depend on Internet sources for planning or go to friends and family for help (86%).

- Getting married in a church or other religious institution? Well 49% of couples are following in your footsteps.

- The average number of guests at a wedding is 166. Personally, this number surprises me as most weddings I officiate in Seattle range from 75-100 people.

- If you are getting married in the summer and are having a difficult time securing your favorite vendors, this may be the reason why. The majority of weddings takes place from June through August with August hitting a high of 233,413 weddings!

- Probably the wedding fact that most couples are curious about is how much money other couples are spending on their wedding. With costs skyrocketing by almost a thousand dollars every year, see how your budget fits in. In the United States, total spending on a wedding in 2008 is…(drum roll please!) $28,800!

Three Important Things A Wedding Officiant May Tell You That Aren't Necessarily True...

The Wonderful Tim and Karen Grimm

March 29, 2008, Monte Villa Farmhouse, Bothell, WA

photo: www.chrissollart.com

In this work that I do, I attempt to be as transparent as possible. It's not every day that a couple "shops around" for an Officiant and selecting someone to share in a very vulnerable and intimate moment is a "big deal," if I may be so blunt and bold.

So, here are three things that you may hear from an Officiant - and if you do, I beg to differ:

"Trust me/I promise, I have a back-up." Right - on some of the fullest/busiest wedding days of the wedding season, if an Officiant has a crisis and can't be at your wedding, you may have a big challenge. I have been very fortunate and have been at every wedding of mine for the past six years. And one day, if I do this work long enough, I know there is going to be a problem. On many of the less busy days, an Officiant most often will have a back-up. On those very popular Fri/Sat and Sun times during the summer, this is much less so. I have a few additional strategies that I share with my couples that work and bring comfort.

"No paperwork needed." Get an agreement with your Officiant in writing. If an Officiant doesn't offer you a signed agreement, look elsewhere. Professionalism is key here and you want peace of mind that you are fully contracted for your date/time.

"No, no microphone needed." If you are having more than 50 guests, please consider using a microphone or similar amplification system, especially if you are outdoors. Often, beyond the fourth row or so, people can't hear as well and there is nothing that is more disappointing than attending a ceremony and not fully enjoying the words/rituals/moments.

The Washington Arboretum For Your Small And Intimate Wedding Ceremony

I love the smile on your face, Erin!

FAV REVIEW: The Washington Arboretum is one of my favorite places in Seattle for a small and intimate wedding ceremony. There are several locations throughout the park that are beautifully suited for a wedding ceremony, whether you're off season or during the gorgeous summer months. Take a peak at: http://depts.washington.edu/wpa/ - the picture above was taken at one of my favorite ponds at the Arboretum on a deck over looking the water and lily pads!

ABSOLUTELY! Consider Having Your Dog(s) As Part Of Your Wedding Ceremony & Day!

I am now writing Dean and Karen's wedding ceremony for their big day at Kiana Lodge and found this wonderful photo attached to their completed ceremony homework.
Meet the "Ring Bearers!"

I absolutely love it when a couple involves their beloved dogs in a wedding ceremony. Dogs and children bring such joy to a ceremony - no matter what happens, little people and "children in fur" often bring laughter and levity to a ceremony - and help create a few more defining moments for the day!

What I Know For Sure: A Wedding Ceremony Brings Up "Stuff" - Really!

Brandon & Andrea's Wedding Ceremony, 2007

Snoqualmie Golf & Country Club

What do I know for sure? As I get older, perhaps less and less.

And having done this work now for six years, I offer you this learned wisdom after working with many couples to create and deliver a wedding ceremony - short and sweet or custom and involved.

- A wedding is a ritual of transition. "Stuff" comes up during an engagement to be attended to. Listen, have authentic and real conversations - use your engagement time to go deeper with your Sweetheart. Try not to dampen feelings or "stuff coming up" with wedding planning or by staying busy.

- Not only does "stuff" come up for you, it comes up for your "tribe," i.e., people around you. As one of my brides shared with me yesterday, "My fiancee's Mother doesn't realize it's not all about her!" Recognize "projection" for what it is and be clear with your boundaries.

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Most of all, I know a few things: how grateful I am for this work, how much I love and appreciate my husband and our family of dogs and how honored I am to work with a couple and share in their wedding day. Onward we go!

"OFF SEASON" WEDDINGS - SAVE MONEY, MORE CHOICES....CONSIDER THE POSSIBILITY!

It's really interesting.

My full wedding season now officially runs from the beginning of February thru Thanksgiving.

If you are a couple and have yet to select a venue and/or date, consider an off season wedding, i.e, November - February.

Not only will you get more choices for a venue and vendors, you'll enjoy better prices.

Yes, summer weddings are most popular. And if you have flexibility, go "off season" and take your savings and enjoy an extra special honeymoon or a big ticket purchase for your new life together!

COCKER SPANIEL "HONEY BEAR" - JUST LOOK AT THIS FACE!

The Story of "Honey Bear"

Rescued from a hell hole in January.

Adopted to a loving home in February.

A big part of my life is dog rescue and rehabilitation and I've been doing this work in Seattle for more than 15 years. My husband, Greg and I, have four dogs at our home/property on Bainbridge Island - and during the past couple of years, we have taken care of special needs dogs who have spent the their last months with us.

I was part of a team that rescued "Honey Bear" in January. We found her living in filth and neglect in a shed with a heat lamp. After getting her urgent veterinary care and grooming, we discovered the sweetest little cocker girl underneath all of her filth and mats. She was fostered by a loving couple for several weeks and adopted by a lovely woman named Amy. Amy and Honey Bear are living together in Port Orchard and best of all, Honey Bear goes to work every day with Amy and the two are practically joined at the hip!

So, on this chilly March evening as I am working to find a foster home for another rescued dog - I offer you Honey Bear's picture and story for no other reason than to share the joy I feel when a dog is released from suffering and is insured of love and kindness for the rest of it's life. Woof!