Wedding Planner Winter 2008

Page 1


2

THE PRESS

@

Wedding Planner

JANUARY 25, 2008

Tradition that sparkles like new R AY C A R T E R

N

othing shines like a bride moving gracefully down the aisle on her wedding day. And whether it’s a

diamond ring, an antique broach or a gleaming necklace, nothing adds dazzle like jewelry.

Photo by Richard Wisdom

Creme dela Gem owner Donna Ross said that whether the event is tailored around tradition or designed to reflect something entirely new, jewelry has been a significant part of nuptials for hundreds of years. Pope Innocent III in 1215 declared there be a longer period between betrothal and marriage, resulting in the advent of a ring designed to signify the intent to wed. The typical engagement ring didn’t become set with a diamond until the marriage of Maximilian I (then Archduke of Austria) to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. Today, almost all engagement rings feature a diamond and some include other precious stones as well. Ross said the addition of rubies or sapphires is becoming commonplace when shopping for that special ring, and that a couple contemplating marriage should get advice from a jeweler about the Four C’s of diamond purchase: cut, clarity, color and carat. In many cases, a diamond engagement ring

Your Bay Area Wedding Specialist.

Located on Delta View Golf Course in Pittsburg • Newly Renovated Reception Rooms • Brand New Wedding Gazebo and Garden Landscaping • Fabulous "All Inclusive Wedding Packages" • Events up to 250 • Grand Opening Specials and Promotions

925-432-1700ext.2 deltaviewsales@wedgewoodbanquet.com To view all locations visit us online at:

www.wedgewoodbanquet.com

will be one of the major purchases a couple makes during their marriage. A rule of thumb suggests an expenditure equal to two months of the groom’s wages. A smaller, high-quality diamond is often preferable if the stone is considered an investment. An emerging trend is the purchase of engagement rings to be worn by both of the betrothed. Ring and jewelry settings are another thing to consider. Settings can be obtained in a variety of yellow gold or platinum alloys from plating on silver to pure gold or platinum (24K). In general, it’s a good idea to stick with 14K or 18K settings, since they are harder and more wear resistant. Pure silver is not a good choice for an item that will be worn consistently, since silver is soft, subject to wear and tends to need frequent polishing. The wedding rings themselves present an additional opportunity to obtain custom-designed jewelry that’s unique to the occasion. To see what can be done with commercially available rings for both the bride and groom, go to www.dorarings. com for a look at a wealth of choices. Of course, selecting rings is all about taste and budget. Some couples prefer simple bands of gold while others opt for something ornamental. The adage “something old, something new,


THE PRESS

?3

Wedding Planner

JANUARY 25, 2008 something borrowed and something blueâ€? is pertinent to the choice of jewelry. Something old could be a mother’s family heirloom broach. Something new could be an ankle bracelet received as a gift from the groom on the day of the wedding, while a borrowed item might be a string of pearls loaned by a bridesmaid. Something blue might be sapphire earrings. Many weddings include jewelry for the bridesmaids and even something for groomsmen. Pearl necklaces are popular for the ladies while a tiepin or cufinks can serve as mementos for gentlemen. And don’t forget the parents of the bride and groom. A jewelry item for them is certainly appropriate in order to keep the wedding memory alive. Various cultures maintain different traditions when it comes to gift giving and the exchange of jewelry. An Asian tradition has the groom present a pearl ring to the bride’s father that is passed from him to his daughter during the ceremony. A more modern gift would be jewelry inserted in body piercings. Ross recommends a meeting or consultation held with wedding party members (bride-to-be, mother of the bride, groom and others) in order to show them what’s available and talk about custom-designed jewelry to help make the event memorable and unique. Color is always an important factor. Jewelry worn by wedding participants needs to complement gowns and groom wear in order to make the event as close to perfect as it can be. Think about using lay-away to pay for more expensive items over time and, of course, wedding guests should consider jewelry store gift cards or certiďŹ cates as a way to honor the newlyweds and provide the option to purchase items they really like. As Creme dela Gem’s Ross puts it, “Jewelry is a marvelous way to express one’s taste and provide beautiful lasting memories you can wear.â€?

Photos by Richard Wisdom

G]c` 3dS`g 2`SO[ 1][S B`cS

The Wedding Pavilion, which overlooks our lovely gardens and scenic golf course, is the perfect site for a romantic sunset ceremony. The award-winning culinary team at Brentwood Golf Club is fully prepared to create a custom menu for you. We take pride in creating an exceptional experience at a reasonable price for our guests. Ask about our complimentary site fee!

925.516.3400

NinesatBrentwood.com Located at Brentwood Golf Club


4

THE PRESS

@

Wedding Planner

JANUARY 25, 2008

Destination weddings on idyllic islands –

it’s all in the planning

W

hether it’s the gentle tropical breeze in swaying palms that provides the allure or the sheer liberation of jetting away to an exotic

locale, destination weddings have become the marriage celebration of choice for many couples.

Almost two in 10 weddings in 2007 were destination events. Hop onto the exotic bandwagon and you’ll find sun-kissed shores the perfect setting for your nuptial event. Who knows? You might even run into a celebrity couple escaping the paparazzi.

Romano Marchetti

Today, almost two in 10 weddings are destination events – and Caribbean islands lead the list. It’s no surprise. Tropical destinations have increasingly attracted celebrity couples – golf icon Tiger Woods and his bride Elin Nordegren, and Hollywood’s Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, have made Caribbean islands their wedding destinations. But island nuptials are no longer the domain of the rich and famous.

(925) 757-5472

& His Society Orchestra Music for all occasions, specializing in a variety of musical styles: Nostalgic • 20’s to 60’s Jazz • Rock • Top 40 Country • Swing • Latin & Other Ethnic Music

will make any party a success! www.rmorchestra.com

877-LIMOS-4U 546-6748

DELTA


THE PRESS JANUARY 25, 2008

In fact, thanks to package deals and seasoned wedding planners, destination weddings are easier than ever to arrange. To ensure a perfect outcome with the desired personal touch, it’s important to find an experienced wedding guru who can, with an excellent support staff, watch every detail and relieve the pressure, so that the bride and groom can enjoy a stress-free wedding experience. Beverly King of Jolly Beach Resort on the Caribbean island of Antigua has been planning island weddings for almost 20 years. She offers these suggestions: “Do your homework; it’s important to remember that marriage requirements vary among destinations. And if you have your heart set on a particular date, make arrangements well in advance if possible, as certain times of the year tend to book quickly. For

Wedding Planner instance, we find that the peak months for weddings are February, April, May, June and November. “Couples who decide on a destination wedding might also want to break free from traditional wedding attire. I tell my brides and grooms to consider the climate and look for pieces that not only look great but travel well, like a cocktail dress in a light fabric and color. “And while an island breeze helps set the tropical mood, it makes a veil difficult to control. As an alternative, I suggest wearing a small tiara or using fresh flowers as accents. Grooms should also dress with comfort in mind – say, a light linen suit, or dress pants paired with a shirt and vest, or a classic guayabera for a true island feel.” Brides and grooms desiring a sunkissed destination wedding shouldn’t have

trouble finding a wedding package to fit any budget. For instance, Jolly Beach Resort’s Dream Wedding Package (www. jollybeachresort.com) offers amenities and choices ranging from cake, champagne, photos and bouquets to fulfilling the legal requirements. Couples can choose to have their ceremony at any location on the 40acre property, which includes two wedding gazebos – one located on the resort’s dazzling half-mile-long beach. With the aid of an experienced wedding planning team, an altar-bound couple can rest assured that their wedding day will be hassle-free. King, for example, not only handles the details of the wedding ceremony and reception, but she personally schedules the appointment to apply for the marriage license and she, or a member of her team, escorts the couple to ensure

?5 Thanks to package deals and seasoned wedding planners, destination weddings are easier than ever to arrange. that everything goes smoothly. “There is no residency requirement to be married in Antigua,” said King, “but we need couples to be here one working day prior to the ceremony to process the necessary documents.” With all of the preparations completed and the license obtained, couples can simply relax and know they’ve chosen a stunning backdrop for their celebration, guaranteeing a wedding album full of joyous memories.


6

THE PRESS

@

Wedding Planner

JANUARY 25, 2008

Weddings go high-tech

T

echnology transforms every aspect of modern life these days, even the biggest day of most people’s lives – their wedding day.

From wedding planning Web sites to digital photo slideshows presented at receptions and rehearsal dinners, technology is helping couples plan their weddings in ways that are much easier and save more time than ever. Technology also helps engage the couple’s loved ones in, and preserve their memories of, their special day. Here are four of the hottest technology trends that are revolutionizing the way Americans plan their weddings:

Planning and Research Goes Online Brides once turned to monthly or seasonal wedding magazines for advice and ideas. Now, modern brides plan their wedding online. Web sites have made it easy for brides to track the latest trends, look at thousands of gown options, and organize themselves for their big day. Where once a bride might tote around clips torn from magazines, fabric swatches, and contracts in a wedding planning binder, now most of those things are found and stored digitally through a wedding planning Web site.

Projectors for Rehearsal Dinners and Receptions Every couple wants to make their wedding as personal as possible, and leave guests with the feeling that “Oh, that was so Todd and Rebecca!” Where once brides and grooms placed photos of themselves throughout a reception or rehearsal dinner space, now a multimedia presentation is all the rage. Video and still images, typically set to music, feature the couple throughout their lives, apart and together, and are replacing traditional photo albums, creating an exciting personal touch to any wedding celebration.

Web sites like www.projector123.com rent stateof-the-art projectors for as little as $99 for a weekend. Couples order a projector online, have it shipped to them or their reception site for next-day arrival, and then connect the projector to a device like a laptop computer to project their photo montage presentation for the enjoyment of their guests. “Jason and I really wanted to have a photo slideshow at our rehearsal dinner, but the restaurant wanted us to pay $500 on top of our reservation fee for all the equipment! So we went online to Projector123, and were able to order our own equipment and have it shipped directly to the restaurant,” says bride-to-be Christine Goldenberg of Los Angeles. “Finding areas to cut costs for a wedding can be challenging, and by ordering the projector online, we were able to save a significant amount of money.”

Personal Wedding Web Sites Personal wedding Web sites are popping up everywhere. For a small fee, couples design their very own Web site, where they post pictures of themselves, detail the specifics of their wedding day, feature bios of the bridal party, reveal their honeymoon destination and provide gift registry information all in one convenient online location. “Most people have access to the Internet, so you now have the ability to use technology to make your wedding day as special and memorable as possible,” says recent newlywed Jay Joyer of Irvine. “We had a small wedding, but wanted all our friends and family to feel part of our big day, so we set up a wedding Web site where our guests could sign our online guestbook, read the story of our proposal, or make hotel reservations through the Accommodations section of our site. Everyone said it made making plans or staying up to date on our wedding so easy.”

BRENTWOOD PRESS & PUBLISHING CORPORATION National Award Winning Newspapers East County Living is published weekly by the Brentwood Press and Publishing Corporation, a Member of the California Newspaper Publishers Association & The National Newspaper Association. No part of this publication may be reproduced for commerce or trade without written permission from the publisher.

EAST COUNTY LIVING President & Publisher - Jimmy Chamoures Associate Publisher - Greg Robinson Editor - Rick Lemyre Production Manager - Lonnie de Lambert HOW TO REACH US For information on advertising, call 634-1441 Ext. 115, or e-mail ads@brentwoodpress.com. To suggest a possible story, call 634-1441 Ext. 111, or e-mail editor@brentwoodpress.com.

Photo courtesy of Projector123.com

As most guests now have access to the Internet, a personal wedding Web site is the ultimate convenience for guests to stay in touch with the couple and their latest wedding planning developments.

Online Ordering of Wedding Photos No more waiting months for wedding albums. Many wedding photographers and videographers now take digital pictures or film and post their proofs online. This streamlines the developing and choosing processes and allows entire albums to be viewed by couples and their guests, no matter where their location.


THE PRESS

@7

Wedding Planner

JANUARY 25, 2008

As luck would have it …

M

any people believe that seven is a lucky number. The Bible even refers to seven as “the perfect number.” According to

TheKnot.com, more than 30,000 couples got married on July 7, 2007, more than double the average number for a Saturday in July. The 7/7/07 rush to the altar caused quite a ripple effect in the wedding industry. Vendors cashed in on couples’ desire to tie the knot on this date, and wedding reception sites capitalized on the lucky-seven theme, creating special packages that built on the seven theme. Seven-layer wedding cakes, bridal suites with 7 in the room number and reception tables in multiples of seven were some of the specials available. While it’s too late to book a 7/7/07 wedding, you can still get engaged and married using the seven motif. For those popping the question, consider these tips for maximizing the theme: ♦ Choose a restaurant or location with a 7 in the address or name. ♦ Propose at 7:07 p.m. (or a.m., if you’re an early riser).

♦ Nestle the ring within a bouquet of seven roses or between seven chocolate truffles. ♦ Include seven reasons you love your partner in a poem or the sentiments of your proposal. ♦ Cuddle up watching movies with seven in the name, such as “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” “The Seven Year Itch,” “Six Days, Seven Nights” or “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” Regardless of what day you’re proposing, keep the following advice in mind: DO make it personal by picking a special place or reciting personalized sentiments, including why you want to marry this person. DON’T make it public. Most women don’t want thousands of people witnessing their proposal. Keep it intimate. DO know whether your bride-to-be wants to pick out her own ring or if she prefers a surprise. Jewelry is often a personal preference. DON’T make it complicated. Too many surprises planned for the big moment can distract you from the main focus – the proposal itself. DO go down on one knee. It will make the moment even more special. DON’T do it in front of family, which could add extra stress to the moment.

TATOLONE HAVE & T O HOLD TREE GOLF & EVENT CENTER D

iscover the perfect wedding, anniversary or business banquet location at LONE TREE GOLF & EVENT CENTER in Antioch.

A Romantic Setting on the Delta ! Indoor Ceremony Site ! Two Romantic Outdoor Ceremony Sites

Humphrey’s will provide personal

! Full On-site Catering

assistance from the beginning to the end

! Coordinating 20 to 350 Guests:

of your special occasion. Located in

Rehearsal Dinners • Receptions • Showers Anniversaries • Corporate Parties • Meetings Retirements • Reunions • Lunch or Dinner

Make your event memorable with: t Five-Star Catering menus for events t Expansive 4,500 sq. ft. ballroom t 4,000 sq. ft. patio with golf course views t Meeting space up to 300 t Spacious wrap around deck with picture-perfect mountain & delta views t Elegant outdoor tent pavilion t Accessories–dance floor, wedding arch, bridal court t Wedding planning assistance–cake, photographer, music

EXTRAVAGANT SUNDAY BRUNCH BUFFET ONLY

18.95

$

Mouthwatering Menu Plus Live Jazz Every Sunday from 10 am-2 pm.

LONE TREE GOLF COURSE CLUBHOUSE RESTAURANT LUNCH 11-4 p.m. Daily DINNER 4-9 p.m. Daily

(Special Rates for Seniors and Children 10 & under)

G O L F & E V EN T CEN T ER

CALL (925) 706-4220

4800 Golf Course Rd. Antioch, CA 94531

w w w. l o n e t re e g o l f c o u r s e . c o m w w w. l o n e t r e e g o l f c o u r s e . c o m

To plan your special events, please call Cindy Lowary at:

925.777.2065

Catering/Wedding Coordinator

Humphrey’s on the Delta One Marina Plaza, Antioch, CA 94509 www.humphreys-antioch.com

the Antioch Marina, overlooking the San Joaquin River.


8

THE PRESS

@

Wedding Planner

JANUARY 25, 2008

Flinging flowers and …

B

rides have so many adored little girls in their lives that they often choose more than one flowergirl. It’s not unusual to see groups of

flowergirls – including all the bride and groom’s nieces – which eliminates the charge of favoritism. And it’s a precious scene when five or six little ones in white party dresses with pink sashes make their way down the aisle preceding the bride. Etiquette standards suggest that girls between the ages of 4 and 7 are named flowergirls, while girls ages 8 to 14 who are too old to be flowergirls yet too young to be bridesmaids are named junior bridesmaids. (Their responsibilities are similar, except that the junior bridesmaids don’t scatter flower petals, and they often stand with the bridal party during the ceremony while the flowergirls sit with their parents.) The bride might decide that 16 is an appropriate age for the title of Junior Bridesmaid, and that 3 is an acceptable age for your niece to be a flowergirl. All roles are granted according to each girl’s maturity level – we’ve all seen some well-behaved 3-year-olds, and we’ve seen some 8-year-olds who act like 3year-olds. So it’s purely a matter of “Can this child accept the

responsibility?” Luckily, the responsibilities are few, and tasks are short in duration. Kids don’t need long attention spans, and the brief span of the work makes wedding day easy for the youngest flowergirl. Wedding expert Sharon Naylor, author of 34 wedding books, including “The Bridesmaid Handbook” and “The Essential Guide to Wedding Etiquette” (both Sourcebooks, 2005) gives a lineup of the responsibilities of today’s modern flowergirl: Before the Wedding Day ♦ She should participate in choosing her dress for the wedding day, along with sash, shoes or accessories. ♦ She should attend pre-wedding parties and showers with her parents. Her name should be added to the card that accompanies the parents’ wedding gift. ♦ She should participate in the planning for bridal showers and assigned kid-friendly projects such as assembling the favors. ♦ She should attend the rehearsal and learn her tasks, and attend the rehearsal dinner. On the Wedding Day ♦ She should arrive with her parents at the location where the bride and bridesmaids will prepare for the wedding. ♦ She should have her hair styled for the wedding. ♦ She should participate in the pre-wedding photo session. ♦ She should walk in the processional immediately preceding the bride. She may be asked to sprinkle rose petals during her walk, or if the site forbids petal-sprinkling, she may simply carry a


We offer a full

THE HISTORIC

Taylor Ranch

array of services. C all us to get information on early booking discounts.

For a garden/facility tour and private consultation, please call

(925) 634-4519

www.taylorranch.org Taylorranchweds@aol.com


Carefree Travel & Entertainment VICKI LUNDY-REVELS, Owner TRAVEL & EVENT PLANNER Caribbean Destination Specialist BY APPOINTMENT ONLY ANTIOCH, CALIFORNIA vlundy-carefree@msn.com Calif.Seller Travel#2076586-40 925-776-5793 www.carefreetravelonline.com


Carefree Travel & Entertainment VICKI LUNDY-REVELS, Owner TRAVEL & EVENT PLANNER Caribbean Destination Specialist BY APPOINTMENT ONLY ANTIOCH, CALIFORNIA vlundy-carefree@msn.com Calif.Seller Travel#2076586-40 925-776-5793 www.carefreetravelonline.com


12

THE PRESS

@

Wedding Planner

JANUARY 25, 2008

Honor the men who make weddings special

I

t’s a foregone conclusion that’s become a modern maxim: the wedding is all about the bride. She’s the focus, the star of the show. It’s her day.

While all eyes are on the bride as she floats down the aisle, the groom is often relegated to second-class citizenship – not to mention the groomsmen. While all eyes are riveted on the bevy of beauties in matching dresses, groomsmen tend to disappear into the background. One person who shouldn’t fail to notice the groomsmen is the groom himself. Part of being a good groom is not only showing support for your blushing bride, but showing appreciation for your groomsmen. Groomsmen make vital contributions before and during the wedding, whether it’s offering support to a nervous groom or organizing one final and memorable get-together before the he ties the knot. “Groomsmen are often overlooked in a wedding party, even though they play important roles,” says Mark Walerstein, founder of GroomsOnline (www. groomsonline.com), an informational Web site offering tips, pointers and timesaving hints designed to make the planning process more fun, relaxing and rewarding for the man. A good groom should recognize the efforts of his groomsmen and reward them for their efforts. GroomsOnline offers a host of unique gifts that are sure to be appreciated by the men who play an important role in the wedding party.

aspects of the day. For grooms whose groomsmen are more likely to reminisce about the reception than the ceremony itself, consider the GroomsOnline Pub design line of gifts. Grooms can give out a personalized pub sign, pub shot glass, pub beer stein, or a pub bubble clock as a means of commemorating the day. Such gifts can then be displayed at celebrations for years to come.

Back to the bachelor party These days, weekend getaways are a common theme of many bachelor parties. If your bachelor party happened to be a weekend getaway where you and your groomsmen kicked back and enjoyed your favorite activity, consider gifts that evoke memories of that special weekend where you were the guest of honor. Specific gift designs from

Commemorate the reception

GroomsOnline include fishing, pool hall, golf and hunting lodge, to name a few.

Take a swing at a great gift For grooms and groomsmen especially fond of America’s pastime, consider the most popular gift offered through GroomsOnline: a personalized Louisville Slugger bat commemorating your big day and each groomsman’s participation in it. Each bat is engraved with the groomsman’s name (plus with the groom’s and bride’s). The bat can even be engraved with your favorite team’s logo. Other gifts include personally signed baseballs, perfect for any sports fan.

Go the fanciful route For grooms whose wedding will be an elegant affair, celebrate that elegance by giving your groomsmen a gift they’re sure to value for years. Perhaps no accessory for men is more elegant than a pocket watch. Engrave a pocket watch for each groomsmen in your party as a show of appreciation and an acknowledgement of his role in helping you and your bride create an atmosphere and a day you’ll remember forever. You can also score extra points by engraving a special sentiment to your own father or the father of the bride.

Groomsmen often play a significant role in a wedding, one the groom should acknowledge with a thoughtful gift.

While women tend to lean toward the sentimental side at weddings, men are often less so, and tend to focus on the celebratory

Party Equipment Rentals

Weddings Special Occasions Birthday Parties Holidays Tables, chairs, tents, inflatables and much, much more!

516-7664 3891 Walnut Blvd., Brentwood

Berry’s Pastry Shop ANTIOCH’S HOMETOWN BAKERY

Wedding, Birthday & Specialty Cakes

6:30am to 5pm M-F “Always Fresh!” 7:30am to 5pm Sat Closed Sunday 1872 A Street • Antioch (near Grocery Outlet)

757-5858

D&D Jewelers Jewelry Repair, Service & Sales All work done on premises Large Selection • Custom Designs 2001 W. 10th Street, Antioch • (925) 706-8842 (Locat inside the Federal Credit Union)


Old Tux Shoppe” “ The

Formal Wear Specialists Tuxedos Rentals & Sales Cruise Packages

754-7766 310 G Street, Antioch fax 778-6219

n o i s a c c Any Omousine Li www.limo209.com ★ 10 Different Styles of Limos To Choose From (925) 516-0266



THE PRESS

@ 15

Wedding Planner

JANUARY 25, 2008

Brides and grooms flash

red-carpet smiles A

s any viewer who watches the glamorous Hollywood awards ceremonies can easily see, some of the most

notable fashion statements visible on the red carpet – in addition to glorious gowns, glittering jewels and elegant tuxedos – are the stars’ dazzling smiles. By the same token, no bride or groom should forget the importance of a “red-carpet smile” as they prepare to walk down the aisle to receive their own lifetime award: each other’s hand in marriage. With all eyes and cameras focused on the happy couple, one of the surest ways for them to shine is to flash a stunning, camera-ready smile for all to see and for those photos that the pair will cherish forever. Consistent with today’s growing trend toward teeth whitening, engaged lovebirds are realizing that their wedding is an ideal time to brighten those pearly whites. There are a variety of options from which to choose, ranging from expensive dental cosmetic procedures to simple, inex-

pensive, over-the-counter solutions such as whitening toothpaste. Toothpastes such as Mentadent Advanced Whitening Supreme contains both baking soda and peroxide. “Adding the benefits of baking soda and peroxide to your daily oral care regimen can help you achieve a glistening smile-makeover,” says Dr. Dennis Wells, a nationally recognized expert on cosmetic dentistry and founder of the Nashville Center

for Aesthetic Dentistry. According to Wells, who has enhanced the smiles of music celebrities and beauty-pageant contestants, and has been featured on the ABC-TV program “Extreme Makeover,” “Such a solution is a great option for any bride or groom looking for an easy, safe and quick way to get a beautiful, healthy smile for their special day.” Of course, it stands to reason that tooth-whitening should be accompanied by a consistent routine of proper dental care, including brushing, flossing and regular visits to one’s dentist. But whatever route one chooses to a brighter visage, a perfectly polished smile remains an important aspect of body language in communicating with one’s family, friends, and business or professional associates. And perhaps in no setting is a beaming, radiant face more important for a woman than at her wedding. As the 18thcentury Swiss philosopher John Lavater wrote, “A beautiful smile is to the female countenance what the sunbeam is to the landscape.”

Skin Aesthetics Teaching and creating beautiful skin

Offering Treatments In… • Skin Tag Removal • Microdermabrasion FREE Skin • Facials Consultations • Skin Peels • Ear Candling Gift Certificates • Waxing Available

New! Non-Surgical Age Management Program Exclusive Distributor of METHODE PHYSIODERMIE

Tami Raney Licensed Esthetician

(925) 679-0883


16

THE PRESS

@

Wedding Planner

JANUARY 25, 2008

A new player in the sports bar competition has just taken the field: Red Rhino Ultra Sports Bar, easy to find (even without the searchlights) in Brentwood’s Winco Shopping Center.

Photo by Richard Wisdom

Red Rhino rumbles into sports bar scene VICKI MCKENNA

T

he new Red Rhino Ultra Sports Bar, located in The Winco Shopping Center in Brentwood, invites you to come in,

sit down, get comfortable and stay awhile. Owner Bill Worthington and General Manager Stephanie Johnson promise an inviting atmosphere, 11 plasma screen TVs, full bar and an extensive menu that doesn’t stop at your usual sports-bar fare. “My competition isn’t the other sports bars in town,” says Bill. “I’m competing with people’s living rooms. A lot of people have their own big-screen TV at home now, and they’re mixing their own martinis. I want to provide a place that’s just as comfortable. I want people to feel like they can spend a few hours here and enjoy some really good food. Let us mix the martinis.” Worthington, 43, is a no stranger to East County. Born in Richmond, he attended San Jose State after being offered a full scholarship in judo, and was a state champion. He opened his first night club in San Francisco, called Loft Eleven, and currently owns and operates The Room, another popular nightclub in the city. A big sports fan, Bill has entertained the notion of owning a sports bar for a long time. He decided to return to East County and open Red Rhino, which also allows him to be closer to his young son, who lives in Brentwood. Great food is a must at any sports bar, and Chef Ken Heindel, who comes to Red Rhino from Brentwood’s Hiro’s, has come up with a menu that’s sure to please everyone. The impressive menu spans the spectrum from nachos to steaks, and features an

Every successful team needs a good OwnerGM combo. The duo that makes the Red Rhino squad perform like a well-oiled machine: Owner Bill Worthington, above, and General Manager Stephanie Johnson, left.

Photos by Richard Wisdom


THE PRESS

@ 17

Wedding Planner

JANUARY 25, 2008

Photos by Richard Wisdom

Red Rhino customer Tom Weller, left, enjoys the Ultra Sports Bar’s food, drink, wide-screen TVs – and most of all, the good company of friends. Above, Red Rhino’s wraps, fish and chips, salads and burgers boasts great flavor and generous portions. impressive array of burgers, salads and wraps. A kids’ menu is also available. Happy Hour runs every night from 4 to 7 p.m. and features $2 beers and $2 well drinks. Soon to come will be Karaoke Night on Tuesdays and Sundays and a Karaoke Contest with cash prizes of up to $1,000. Come summertime, the new fully enclosed patio, which cost over $20,000 to build, will become a Bier Garten. Bill would like to eventually offer dancing on Friday and Saturday nights, but is taking things one step at a time, establishing a good clientele first.

Red Rhino officially opened on Dec. 28 and has already attracted loyal customers. “I’ve been here for lunch and now for dinner,” said Lynn Kieckhefer, a personal fitness trainer and football fan. “The food is excellent and the portions are huge. The Caesar salad wrap is enough for two people.” Pittsburg resident Jim Calkins agreed: “The steak here is excellent, and the garlic fries are very tasty.” As for the service, Margaret Di Stefano, a fourth-grade teacher at Jack London Elementary, raved about both the hostess and the waitress: “They seem very eager to please. I appreciate that.”

When asked about the “Ultra” in his establishment’s name, Bill explained, “Ultra means no peanut shells on the floor. Just a bit more upscale. Good food, good drinks and quality entertainment while feeling comfortable. A place that’s nice enough to take your girlfriend to,” says Bill. Golf USA and Red Rhino will partner up in the future, planning golf tournaments and other events. And Red Rhino will be hosting a big Super Bowl party featuring plenty of drink specials and activities. For more information and a complete menu, visit www.redrhinosportsbar.com or call 240-6322.

Gunther’s Grill Family Restaurant Breakfast Lunch, Dinner Mon-Sat 7am-9pm Sun 7am-8pm

No need to leave home or work... We deliver any size order to you! 634-9797 www.takobarcatering.com Specials • Specials • Specials • Specials • Specials

2 Pupusas + 1 tako = $6.99 Super Burrito + 2 Pupusas = $8.99 Quesadillas + 1 tako = $5.99 Taco Salad chicken or beef = $5.99

Reach nearly 250,000 readers every week!

Advertise in our

Food & Entertainment section of East County Living and reach nearly 250,000 each week!

Call 634-1441

317 18th St Antioch • (925) 757-7375 Dine-In • To Go • Delivery & Catering

Game Day SPECIAL Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

ALL YOU CAN EAT Dine In or Take Out Exp/ 2/3/08




20

|

THE PRESS

|

LIVING

JANUARY 25, 2008

Bryce Ellsworth bryce@topproducer.com | Broker

Douglas Heinrich Realtor Broker Associate Jodi Marfia

Shauna Suckow Realtor

(925) 642-7653 (925) 513-2605 www.BryceSellsHomes.com OA

E KL

Tracy Kinsley Realtor

Joy Benson Realtor

Jim Dugan Realtor

Robin Nelson Realtor

Bonnie Hanleigh

Stacie Pichardo

Broker Associate

Ad Manager

A REAL BEAUTY

Y

Absolutely beautiful home with a huge low maintenance back yard. Over 2500 sq ft, 4 beds, 2.5 baths, Corian counter, stainless steel appliances, laminate flooring, breakfast nook, and large oversized family room. All rooms are cable/internet ready, surround sound speakers outlet installed in extended family room, other rooms have hookups for ceiling fans. Home is barely lived in and in perfect condition!

$399,900

GREAT COURT LOCATION This 1761 sq ft, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home is a steal. With features such as an almost 7,000 sq ft lot tile flooring, laminate flooring, carpet, vaulted ceilings, ceiling fans in all rooms, alarm system, formal living room, formal dining room, eat-in kitchen, pantry, tile counters, family room with built-in shelving and a pellet stove. All on a great court location in Oakley. Don’t miss this great opportunity.

O

L AK

EY

$299,000

E BR

NT

W

OO

D

SUPER SPECTACULAR This outstanding home features almost 2600 sq ft of living space with 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, den or media room, hardwood flooring, upgraded carpets, vaulted ceilings, formal dining and living rooms, a large kitchen with Corian Countertops, upgraded appliances and more. Other features include 2 tone paint, 2 awnings located in a park like backyard and a 3 car garage. Priced to sell! $399,900

SUPER CUTE

REMODELED WONDER

Y This super cute home in Oakley LE K has 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths and is OA almost 1340 sq ft. It features a formal living/dining room, family room/kitchen combo, eat-in kitchen, tile counters, laminate flooring throughout, fireplace, huge backyard, dog run, close to shopping, schools, parks and freeway access. Come see this super cute home today!

Y This home has been completely LE K redone, new tile flooring, new OA upgraded carpets, completely remodeled bathrooms & kitchen with granite slab counters, stainless steel appliances, new fixtures, new doors & vanities, new landscaping front and back not to mention a large outstanding pool located in an even bigger back yard. Featuring over 2000 sq ft of living space 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths with one full bed and bath downstairs, RV parking and much, much more. $499,000

$289,900 BEAUTIFUL LEASE

OD

O This beautiful home is located in one of W T the best neighborhoods in Brentwood. EN BR It features 1964 sq ft., 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, formal dining room, formal living room, tile counters in kitchen, gas stove, dishwasher and microwave, eat-in kitchen, laundry room, wall to wall carpet, tile floors, brand new landscaped front yard, huge backyard with a brand new cement patio, Section 8 OK, pets possible, available for immediate occupancy, located in the Deer Ridge Country Club. Come and Lease this beauty today!

For Lease $2,100

READY FOR MOVE-IN

L IS

AN

D

This double wide mobile L home is a remodeled HE T beauty. With almost 1400 BE sq ft of living space, 3 large bedrooms, 2 full baths, large open great room, vaulted ceilings, fresh paint, custom kitchen, breakfast bar, newer appliances, newer roof, new decking, located in the best family park in Contra Costa County.

Coming Soon!

Securing the best mortgage solution is the Cornerstone of a solid financial plan • 100% Financing • Purchase or Refinance • Mortgage Planning/Management Lic. #DRE01524292

• Debt Consolidation • Strategic Equity Management • First Time Home Owners

Call Today for a Free Mortgage Consultation

(925) 516-2734

Marc Ellsworth

Vanessa Gutierrez

Nate Stockwell


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.