The Seattle Wedding of Rajesh & Linda Pandey - Beautiful In Every Sweet Way....

Mr. and Mrs. Rajesh and Linda Pandey

Saturday, June 6, 2009

Rajesh and Linda's love story and devotion is an inspiration to everyone around them. And it was such a joy for me to marry this couple in front of 50 of their dearest family and friends. Linda's best friend, Jennifer, sang two beautiful songs - including one with special lyrics just for Rajesh and Linda. The sisters of the couple read letters that Rajesh and Linda had written to their families and it was truly a sweet hanky moment. But most of all, it was delightful to be in the presence of two people who so obviously adore one another for all the right reasons.

Rajesh and Linda's moments were captured by wedding photographer Chris Sollart...or as Linda shared with me, "Chris managed to transform a pair people comfortable in sweat pants into fashionistas!" For more on Chris's amazing work, I invite you to take a peak: www.chrissollart.com

Mike and Ann Huffman - A Memorable Ceremony At Alderbrook Resort With A Remarkable Couple...

High Noon At Mike & Ann's Waterside Ceremony

June 6, 2009 ~ Alderbrook Resort

How could you not fall in love with Mike and Ann Huffman? Over the past couple of months, I so enjoyed working with this couple to create and deliver their wedding ceremony. Mike and Ann have an amazing story and with 60 family and friends, we celebrated their remarkable love story and commitment this past week.

Photographer Ron Shaw from Always Focused On You Photography (www.always-focused-on-you.com) captured the special moments. Mike and Ann were so blessed to have Ron and his team on hand as Ron is one of the best wedding photo guys in the Pacific Northwest!

From the cloudy sky to the wind that whipped up in the middle of the ceremony - to the personalized vows - to the special memorial candle - and so much more, it was a beautiful and poignant ceremony. And what a fun couple, too! This duo really knows how to entertain and kick things up!

Jason and Anna's Wedding Ceremony On Hood Canal - Very Sunny, Sweet/Intimate and Memorable...

Jason & Anna ~ May 30, 2009, Belfair, WA
Walking With Jason To The Waterfront Ceremony Site

May 30th was a spectacular day for Jason and Anna's wedding ceremony on Hood Canal in Belfair. Fabulous Lens Diva, the wonderful Barbie Hull - www.barbiehull.com - captured some very sweet moments including the photo above as I walked out with Jason to begin the ceremony.

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Within their ceremony, Jason and Anna included a blessing and special welcoming for their baby due this Summer - it was a real hankie moment!

Jason and Anna - I wish you a happy and blessed life (and family)!

Annemarie

Wedding Dog Baxter Almost Steals the Show At Villa Academy!

Baxter! The Amazing Wedding Dog!

The marvelous Brian and Jennifer Hartman of Photo Elan - www.photoelan.com - captured this amazing and fun shot of Wedding Dog "Baxter" while his Guardians were being married at the beautiful Villa Academy Chapel.

Baxter proudly walked down the aisle during Ryan and Kelly Schable's wedding ceremony and I caught the handsome canine peaking out from behind a pew several times as he was watching his people. Beloved dogs add so much joy at a wedding ceremony - no matter if the venue is formal or casual.

Jon and Elizabeth's Wedding Ceremony At The Tacoma Museum of Art

Jon and Elizabeth

Sunday, May 17, 2009 - Tacoma Museum of Art

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Photo Guy Extraordinare' Grant Horiuchi - www.horiuchi.com - captured some absolutely stunning and authentic images during Jon and Elizabeth's wedding ceremony on a sunny Sunday two weeks ago. This couple's ceremony was a mix of traditional and contemporary elements - and a few pieces of humor along the way.

If you've never been to the Tacoma Museum of Art, you must take a peak. It is a an undiscovered gem of a venue for a wedding ceremony and celebration.

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Jon and Elizabeth (and children) - I wish you much happiness together!

Annemarie

It Was A Beautiful Afternoon for Ryan and Kelly's Ceremony At Villa Academy...

The Wonderful Ryan & Kelly Schable

May 16, 2009 - Villa Academy, Seattle

Well, Ryan and Kelly's wonder dog, Baxter, was set to steal the show walking down the aisle with his enthusiasm and verve. But Ryan's beautiful bride was glorious walking down the aisle last Saturday afternoon at Villa Academy and it was a gorgeous moment.

The marvelous Brian and Jennifer from www.photoelan.com were on hand to capture the moments and my favorite pianist, Cara, was there to lend her musical talents - www.seattlepianist.com.

Ryan and Kelly, I know you are on your honeymoon in Tahiti - and I wish you a blessed and happy marriage.

Annemarie

The Marvelous Mayflower Park Hotel and James and Elaine's Wedding Ceremony...

James and Elaine Booth

April 25, 2009, Alexis Hotel

James and Elaine were married at the marvelous Mayflower Park hotel in late April in downtown Seattle. Married in the upper level foyer of the hotel's lobby near the fireplace, James and Elaine's wedding ceremony was a mix of the traditional, the contemporary and with a bit of fun. And let's not forget the "fire truck" and the photos on the truck truck immediately following their ceremony (James is one of those handsome firemen!).

If you looking for a unique and history filled venue for your ceremony and celebration, consider the Mayflower Park Hotel. The staff is amazing and don't get me started on the food!

Kiana Lodge - One Of My Most Favorite Places In The Northwest For A Wedding...

Brian and Jessica Nau

Kiana Lodge, April 26, 2009

*****

Brian and Jessica's wedding ceremony at the marvelous Kiana Lodge was a beautiful event in all ways. The weather was so outstanding (sunny and warm) that we had the ceremony on the deck overlooking Agate Pass. I absolutely loved getting to know Brian and Jessica over the past year - in fact, Brian and Jessica spent only 46 out of 52 weeks together last year as Brian was stationed overseas!

Brian and Jessica - Given the legacy of love shared by your parents, I wish you an equally blessed and sweet marriage!

Annemarie

Kiana Lodge www.kianalodge.com

When Mother Nature Decides To Throw You A Gift - Rain Showers, A Snow Storm...Even A Rainbow!

Matt and Katy Salvolskis

Alderbrook Resort, April 11, 2009

*****

It might have been a little chilly for Matt and Katy's 5:00 p.m. wedding ceremony but the joy in the tent for their evening ceremony was truly remarkable in all ways.

In the middle of Matt and Katy's ceremony, a beautiful rainbow unexpectedly appeared and we all took a few moments just to soak in this beautiful gift. "Unexpected stuff" is what I love about a wedding ceremony. You can plan and plan and plan and then Mother Nature unexpectedly decides to throw you a beautiful gift! And when this happens in a ceremony, you just go with it!

Congratulations, Matt and Katy!
Annemarie

Ryan and Christina's Wedding Ceremony at The Amazing St. Paul's Church, Port Gamble...

Ryan and Christina Hutto

St. Paul's Church, Port Gamble, WA

Ryan and Christina were married on April 18th at the marvelous and historic St. Paul's Church in Port Gamble. From California, I worked with Ryan and Christina via email and phone on their wedding ceremony and finally had the pleasure of meeting them at rehearsal.

Ryan and Christina's wedding was a perfect mix of the sacred, the contemporary and a little fun, too. Ryan and Christina had quite the enthusiastic wedding party that made the ceremony that much more memorable!

If you'd like to take a peak at St. Paul's Church, go to: www.portgambleweddings.com

Kacy and Cindy's Wedding Rings - Simple, Very Unique and Precious...

Kacy and Cindy

April, 2009 - The Space Needle

Kacy and Cindy were married high in the sky on April 4th and Sean Werner of www.weddingphotog.com captured this wonderful shot. During the ceremony, Kacy showed me his very unique ring.

You see, Kacy and Cindy love the Grand Tetons mountains and this place has a lot of significance for them as a couple. So, Kacy had his ring custom made with the image of the Grand Tetons surrounding his wedding band. Very fun. Very beautiful.

3 Things You Might Not Know About Me, Your Wedding Officiant...

Congratulations to Brian & Suzanne!

Kiana Lodge, Poulsbo, WA

In this work that I do, I have laughed, cried, worried, obsessed and had some of the most marvelous moments of my life. Creating and delivering a personalized wedding ceremony - no matter how many people, no matter the location or how simple or complex a ceremony - is a delicate art. It involves the creative process, grand and complex emotion, a couple's unique story and a couple's "tribe/family."

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And so, over the years, here is what is true about me that you may not know:

1) On occasion (once or twice a year), I mess things up within a ceremony. I fall back on the "nobody's perfect" medicine to help me feel better and a mistake still hurts.

2) I often worry about traffic snafus in the Summer season and arrive on-site often way too early. Truth? I wish I could relax around traffic. Probably not happening in this lifetime. So, I drink alot of tea or diet Snapple (peach tea!) while waiting...

3) And several times during the year because I work heavy weekends, I miss wonderful weekend events with family and friends. I'll confide to my husband, "this working weekend thing is really hard sometimes," and feel melancholy that I'm missing some personal fun. Yes, it's true. I love to play AND I wouldn't give up this work right now for anything.

Including Your Beloved Fido In Your Wedding Ceremony...and Day!

Wedding Dogs Everywhere!

Because I am devoted to animals and spend alot of my free time working in dog rescue and rehabilitation, I absolutely love it when a couple includes their pooch(es) in their wedding ceremony.

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Over the weekend, I met with Graham and Chrystal, whose wedding I will now be happily officiating on August 7th, and had the marvelous opportunity to meet their canine kids who were in their truck.

Truth? At a wedding ceremony kids and dogs bring such joy. They can't do anything wrong. Include your beloved companion animal in your ceremony and watch smiles light up a room!

Pondering What Really Matters In A Wedding Ceremony...

Wendy and Eric's Intimate Wedding Ceremony

Bainbridge Island, WA

I find that a paradox offered by author Carolyn Myss offers truth:

"what appears to be big, is really small."

"what appears to be small, is really big."

Sometimes, I think this truly applies to a wedding ceremony.

Sweet Touch For Your Wedding Ceremony - "Passing Of The Wedding Rings"

Passing Of The Wedding Rings

For a small/intimate ceremony (50 guests or less), consider adding the "passing of the rings" before your wedding ceremony.

How this goes: Before your ceremony begins, your Officiant welcomes your family/friends and tells a story about your wedding rings. He or she then facilitates the passing of the rings from person to person - for 50 people, if this ritual is well orchestrated by your Officiant, this ritual should be complete within 5 minutes. Each person takes the rings and quickly offers a thought or wish and passes the rings on.

In many ways, this is a lovely way to involve your guests more fully in your wedding ceremony. And the energy of each person is symbolically imbued into the energy of your rings!

Consider A "Group Photo" Immediately After Your Wedding Ceremony...

Thad & Kristin's Post-Wedding Ceremony Photo!

Alderbrook Resort, Union, WA

No matter the size or structure of your wedding ceremony, consider a "group photo" immediately after your wedding ceremony. I often set up the the logistics of the photo with a couple's photographer ahead of time and then elegantly "instruct family/friends" before the ceremony for a wonderful "after we're done" shot!

This photo makes for a wonderful memento from your wedding day and also personalizes a beautiful thank you card.

www.annemariejuhlian.com
425 922 1325

One Of My Most Favorite Venues For A Wedding Ceremony & Reception - The Monte Villa Farmhouse in Bothell!

The Monte Villa Farmhouse, Bothell, WA

If you are looking for a charming and sweet venue for your wedding ceremony and celebration, consider the marvelous Monte Villa Farmhouse.

Leigh Henderson and Angie Gooding do a wonderful job working with an engaged couple to create a "master celebration plan" for the wedding day - whether your wedding is on the smaller side or larger - casual or more formal.

Not all venues are created equal. Leigh and Angie consistently deliver a high level of service with their couples and I see this first hand when I officate a ceremony at The Monte Villa Farmhouse.

Take a peak at The Monte Villa: http://www.montevilla.com/

http://www.annemariejuhlian.com/

425 922 1325

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/

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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
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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
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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.