Weddings in the San Juans 2014

Contributed photo / Robert Harrison

Contributed photo / Steve Horn

Contributed photo / Benjamin Edwards

A supplement to the Journal of the San Juan Islands • Islands’ Sounder • Islands’ Weekly

A

s a destination wedding location, the San Juan Islands are among the top places to say “I do.”

With incredible surroundings, both unique and traditional venues, activities for guests and farm to table cuisine, a wedding in the San Juans leaves lasting memories.

No matter when your wedding is taking place, the islands can accommodate you.

While most of the outdoor weddings occur in the summer months, there are indoor opportunities for spring, fall and winter weddings as well.

From flowers to cakes to officiating services to lodging, there are businesses here to meet every need. Within these pages you will find a sampling of what San Juan, Orcas and Lopez Islands have to offer.

For additional information, visit any of the following websites.

• www.islebewed.com • www.visitsanjuans.com • www.myorcasislandwedding.com • www.sanjuanisland.org • www.lopezisland.com

Contributed photo / Steve Horn The lighthouse at Lilm Kiln State Park, San Juan.

By Steve Wehrly Journal reporter

I

f you are a superstitious bride who doesn’t want to wear “something old” at you wedding, you might consider holding your wedding at one of many historical venues in the San Juans as your way to satisfy the “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” wedding admonition.

The islands offer a wide selection of venues steeped in history and tradition for the exchange of nuptial vows or

for the celebrations before or after. Below are a few selections for the “old” aspects of a great wedding experience.

On San Juan Island, your can find great old venues from the lighthouse at Cattle Point in the south to the Our Lady of Good Voyages Chapel at Roche Harbor Resort, perhaps the most popular “big wedding” venue around.

The Brickworks at 150 Nichols Street in Friday Harbor offers a large, sunny outdoors plaza to exchange vows and a newly-renovated main hall to celebrate in afterwards. Now

an iconic venue, Brickworks offers a full commercial kitchen and enough room for more than a hundred guests. Contact Tanja Williamson at 378-0095 or check out the facilities at sjbrickworks.com.

The San Juan Island National Historical Park (www.nps.gov/ sajh/index.htm), dating from the 1850’s, has several outdoor locations at both American Camp and English Campo suitable for exchange of vows or even an outdoor reception; 360378-2240 for information.

San Juan Historical Museum

at 405 Price St. in Friday Harbor offers a venue replete with history and vintage buildings; 378-3949 or visit www.sjmuseum.org. The Grange Hall on First Street in Friday Harbor was built as a church in the 1880s. It can accommodate up to 140 people and provides a great view of the harbor, a full commercial kitchen and audio and video capabilities; 360-3786632.

San Juan Vineyards, with an 1895 school house and 30 acres See HISTORY, Page 5

Contributors

Rev. Dorothy Stone

“Your Wedding – Your Way” 360.378.6663 email: chooselove@rockisland.com www.weddingcommitmentceremonies.com

Celebrate all your special occasions with a cake from Cakes by Felicitations

Publishers: Roxanne Angel, Colleen Smith Armstrong Writers: Cali Bagby, Scott Rasmussen, Steve Wehrly Advertising Sales: Colleen Smith Armstrong, Cali Bagby, Rich Peterson, Howard Schonberger Graphic Artists: Scott Herning, Kathryn Sherman Cover Photo: Contributed photos

Publication Information

The Journal of the San Juans 640 Mullis St., Friday Harbor, WA 98250. P: (360) 378‑5696, F: (888) 562-8818 - www.sanjuanjournal.com The Islands’ Sounder 217 Main Street, Eastsound, WA 98245. P: (360) 376‑4500, F: (888) 562-8818 - www.islandssounder.com The Islands’ Weekly 217 Main Street, Eastsound, WA 98245. P: (360) 376‑4500, F: (888) 562-8818 - www.islandsweekly.com

San Juan Islands’ Wedding Show Orcas Island

March 8th • 10am - 4pm

Random Howse, 365 North Beach Rd. #109 Eastsound, WA

San Juan Island

March 9th • 10am - 4pm 317-5961 • www.CakesByFelicitations.com 50 Malcom St #320, Friday Harbor

Brickworks, 150 Nichols Street Friday Harbor, WA

For more info call 317-5961 or visit www.IsleBeWed.com

Contributed photo / Scott Rasmussen

Andrew McLain and Jacki Davis of Seattle sample offerings by Friday Harbor’s Cakes by Felicitations in anticipation of their summer wedding on San Juan.

By Scott Rasmussen Journal editor

O

f all the months of the year, September in the San Juans can be one of the most spectacular.

It can also be one of the most romantic, as Andrew McLain and Jacki Davis would firmly attest.

It was on a sun-splashed morning in early September two years ago that Andrew found himself smitten by the scenery of Roche Harbor Resort and its seaside village, and that Jacki found herself bedazzled by the words that seemingly popped out of her long-time

boyfriend’s mouth with such effortlessness and ease.

“It was so beautiful,” Andrew said. “I was looking out over the harbor and saying I could see myself getting married here one day. I guess I must’ve said that out loud.”

He did indeed, and Jacki recalls that moment clearly.

“I remember getting all excited and thinking to myself, ‘He’s talking about getting married.’”

Talk soon turned into pledges and the Seattle-area couple were back on San Juan Island 18 months later – engaged – to firm up plans for an island wedding. Although

options elsewhere came to mind, like wineries, B & B’s or grand gardens, for Jacki, born and raised in the Tri-Cities, none could quite measure up with the San Juans or overshadow that soft spot in her heart that had formed around Roche Harbor.

And with 140 guests expected to attend the nuptials, arriving from all parts of the country, Andrew and Jacki could think of no better place than San Juan Island to celebrate the beginning of a new life together, share their wedding ceremony with family and friends, and to show off the beauty of the area that they now call home.

“We have people coming from all over and we wanted a place where everyone could come together and have a long weekend experiencing all this beauty and things to do in this part of the country,” Jacki said.

On June 28, the couple will exchange vows at Roche Harbor Resort. While their ceremony will certainly be unique, Jacki and Andrew will join an ever-growing circle of people choosing San Juan Island as a destination wedding. The reasons are many, according to Roche Harbor Resort’s Sam Jacobson, director of events.

“I think people who grow up in Washington want to show off their state

and the San Juans, with the ferries and the water and the natural beauty, are one of those quintessential scenic locations,” he said. “And the proximity to Seattle is really helpful when you’re planning a wedding where a lot of your guests may be coming from somewhere out of state.”

Rated one of Washington state’s top wedding destinations by “theknot.com,” a wedding industry website, Roche Harbor remains one of San Juan Island’s top wedding venues. But it is one of many.

Others popular locations include the historic Valley Church, a stone’s throw from Friday Harbor, the charming chapel and grounds of San Juan Island Vineyards on Roche Harbor Road, the Grange Hall and Friday Harbor House, both located in the town of Friday Harbor, as well as Lakedale Resort and the picturesque county park on the island’s scenic west side.

As the most populated island in the archipelago, San Juan Island is also home to an ever-expanding assortment of wedding-related businesses.

Photographers, event planners, caterers, musicians, D.J.’s, equipment rentals, florists, taxi cabs and limousines, the island offers all of the services that make that special day complete. In addition to a host of quality restaurants, it also provides a wide range of activities, from whale-watch boats to kayak companies, to a top-rated nine-hole golf course, to zipline adventures, to untold miles of hiking trails, that are sure to keep any guest entertained.

Coho Caters Art for wedding announcements, small portraits, memories, and gifts.

Full Event Catering & Planning On & Off Premise • Full Bar Turnkey Service for 2 to 200 Guests Lodging Available at our Friday Harbor Inns

Fresh From the Island Fare S.C. WatSon IlluStratIon

www.OreganoProductions.com/Weddings

Semi

360.378.6330

Pacific Northwest Cuisine with a Mediterranean Flair 120 Nichols St • CohoRestaurant.com

ORCAStrating your dream... Visit our website for our newest trendy inventory… wood farm tables and chairs, LED color lighting, heavy duty café lights, push air heaters for tents, flame electronic ignition space heaters, and much more... :: celebrating 10 years :: serving all islands 434 prune alley :: p.o. box 1685 :: eastsound, wa :: 98245 :: 360.376.8376 :: www.orcasevents.com

J

ust engaged? Wondering about all the things you’ll need to do and when? Here’s a month-by-month snapshot of all your wedding to-dos.

12+ MONTHS BEFORE  Envision your wedding and draw up a budget.  Assemble your “planning team.” Consider hiring a wedding consultant.  Pick a wedding date and time. Select several options, then check with your venues, officiant, important guests before finalizing.  Start planning the guest list.  Look for and book ceremony and reception sites.  Ask friends and relatives to be in the wedding party.  Optional: Have an engagement party. You may want to register beforehand for gifts.

8-10 MONTHS BEFORE  Bride: Think about, shop for, and order your gown.  Envision reception food.  Decide what type of entertainment you want. A pianist for the cocktail hour, strolling violinists, a DJ, or band?  Think about your floral decor.  Research and book your wedding professionals. Interview vendors: photographer, videographer, reception band or DJ, florist.  Research a wedding insurance policy to protect your deposits.  Research and reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests.  Register for gifts.  Contact rental companies if you need to rent anything for ceremony/reception, such as chairs, tables, and tent.

6-8 MONTHS BEFORE  Book ceremony musicians.  Order bridesmaid dresses.  Start planning honeymoon.  Send save-the-date cards. This is a particularly good idea if you’re marrying during a tourist or holiday season or having a destination wedding.

4-6 MONTHS BEFORE  Attend pre-wedding counseling, if required.  Shop for and order invitations and wedding rings.  Shop for formalwear.  Renew or get passports, if necessary.  Envision your wedding cake and research, interview, and book a cake designer.

3 MONTHS BEFORE  Order wedding cake.  Hire a calligrapher, if you want your invitations professionally addressed.  Attend your shower. (It may be earlier, depending on when hosts decide to have it.)  Groom: Rent the men’s formalwear.  Hire wedding-day transport: limousines, other cars. Look into transportation sooner if you’re considering renting streetcars or overthe-top travel.

2 MONTHS BEFORE  Mail your invitations.  Write your vows.  Purchase gifts for parents, attendants, and each other.  Book your stylist and try out big-day hairstyles.  Book makeup artist for a trial run.

1 MONTH BEFORE  Apply for a marriage license. Check with the

local bureau in the town where you’ll wed.  Bride: Have final gown fitting. Bring your maid of honor along to learn how to bustle your dress. Have the dress pressed and bring it home.  Call all bridesmaids. Make sure they have their gowns ready for the wedding.  Make last-minute adjustments with vendors.  Create a wedding program to hand out to guests.  Order and plan in-room welcome baskets for out-of-town guests.

2 WEEKS BEFORE  Review final RSVP list and call any guests who have not yet sent a response.  Deliver must-have shot lists to photographer and videographer. Include who should be in formal portraits and determine when portraits will be taken.  Deliver final song list to your DJ or bandleader. Include special song requests and songs you don’t want played.  Bride: Get your last prewedding haircut and color.

1 WEEK BEFORE  Give reception site/caterer final guest head count. Include vendors, such as the photographer or band members, who will expect a meal. Ask how many extra plates the caterer will prepare.  Supply location manager with a list of vendor requests such as a table for DJ or setup space needed by florist.  Plan reception seating chart.  Print place and table cards, or finalize list with the calligrapher you have hired to do so.  Call all wedding vendors and confirm arrangements.  Give ceremony and reception site managers a schedule of vendor delivery and setup times, plus contact numbers.  Groom: Get your hair trimmed.  Attend bachelor/ette parties.

Power To Go.

DAY BEFORE  Provide all wedding professionals with an emergency phone number to call on the day of the wedding.  Write checks and/or talk to wedding hosts (usually your parents, if not you) about any final balances to be paid at the end of the reception.

NIGHT BEFORE  Rehearse ceremony. Meet with wedding party, ceremony readers, immediate family, and your officiant at the ceremony site to rehearse and iron out details.  Bring all special ceremony accessories to the site.  Give your marriage license to your officiant.  Attend rehearsal dinner.  Present attendants with gifts at the rehearsal dinner. You’ll want to do this especially if the gifts are accessories to be worn during the wedding.

DAY OF  Present parents and each other with gifts.  Give wedding bands to the best man and the maid of honor to hold during the ceremony.  Give best man the officiant’s fee envelope, to be handed off after the ceremony.  Introduce your reception site manager to your consultant or maid of honor for questions or problems during the reception.  Assign a family member or attendant to be the photographer’s contact so he knows who is who.

$ 999.00

EU2000i

POSTWEDDING  Prearrange for someone to return any rentals.  Preplan for attendants to take the bride’s gown for cleaning and return the groom’s tux to the rental shop.  Write and send thank-you notes to giftbearing guests and vendors who were especially helpful.

- Super quiet - 53 to 59 db(A) - Lightweight (less than 47 lbs.)

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JUST HOW MUCH WILL THIS DAY COST? When it comes to financing a wedding, you should figure out how much you’ll need to spend to get what you want. Here is a basic breakdown of what you can expect to pay:

Fresh, local Orcas Island flowers as seen in Real Simple and Evening Magazine. Visit our website wedding album. Contact us for a free estimate.

Harbor Rental & Saw Shop 890 Guard St Friday Harbor, WA 98250 360-378-2220 www.harborrentalandsaw.com * See your participating dealer for details. Read the owner’s manual before operating Honda Power Equipment. Not all dealers carry all products. Consult your local Yellow Pages.

2-3 DAYS BEFORE  Bride: If you need to, have your gown pressed or steamed.  Groom: Go for final fitting and pick up your formalwear.  Groom: Ask the best man to make sure all groomsmen attend fittings and pick up their outfits.  Determine wedding-party positions during ceremony and the order of the party in the processional and recessional.  Hand off place cards, table cards, menus, disposable cameras, favors, and any other items for setting the tables to the caterer and/or reception site manager.  Reconfirm final details with all vendors.

Discuss any necessary last-minute substitutions.  Call the limousine- or car-rental company for pickup times and locations.  Arrange for guests without cars to be picked up from the airport or train station. Ask friends, attendants, or relatives to help.  Deliver welcome baskets to the hotel concierge; make sure to include names and delivery instructions.

© Laurel McConnell Photography

360.376.5208 www.orcasislandflowers.com

Reception: 48%-50% Ceremony: 2%-3% Attire: 8%-10% Flowers: 8%-10% Entertainment/Music: 8%-10% Photography/Videography: 10%-12% Stationery: 2%-3% Wedding Rings: 2%-3% Parking/Transportation: 2%-3% Gifts: 2%-3% Miscellaneous: 8%

© Robert S. Harrison Photography

* To avoid stress, allot about 5% of your budget for a “just-in-case” fund. If you’re paying for your honeymoon yourselves, remember to budget for those expenses as well.

Contributed photo / Benjamin Edwards Victorian Valley Chapel on Orcas.

By Cali Bagby Weekly editor

I

magine you and your beloved holding hands as you say “I do.” Imagine that your backdrop is the gentle waves of the Salish Sea and the surrounding green and rocky islands of the San Juan Archipelago.

If you are looking to set the scene with epic views then consider having your wedding day on Orcas Island, also known as the

History:

Continued from page 2 of manicured grounds and sunny vineyards, is a popular wedding location with indoor and outdoor venues. Visit sanjuanvineyards.com or call 360-378-9462; 3162 Roche Harbor Road.

On Lopez Island, Woodmen Hall, at 4102 Fisherman Bay Road, is a fully renovated hall originally built in 1898. It has a commercial kitchen and a new sound and video system; 360-468-3092. Port Stanley Schoolhouse is a renovated meeting facility managed by the Lopez Museum; 360.468.2049 or email: lopezmuseum@rockisland.com.

Center Church, 312 Davis Bay Road, was dedicated in 1889; it provides the classic historic church venue many brides covet;

“Emerald Isle,” to locals.

Orcas offers a wide expanse of pastoral beauty, pebbly shorelines and bucolic farmland. The island’s 56.9 square miles are dotted with small hamlets offering worldclass restaurants, boutique shopping and a wealth of activity tours. Scattered among the forests and along the pristine shores are a variety of quaint and lovely bed and breakfasts and hotels. Your guests might enjoy browsing the artisan pottery, jewelry or art at the many galleries. Family and friends visiting for a wedding weekend can also take time to explore the beaches and trails on this small but lively island.

Professional Orcas Island wedding planners are at your service to guide you as you select a venue; experienced wedding photographers; talented local musicians; wedding officiant; or salons offering personalized hair, skin and makeup services.

Activities for guests Right off the boat, the Orcas ferry landing hosts a gourmet grocery and deli, post office, a few shops, a public dock, boat rentals, whale watching, water taxi, car and moped rentals, and a taxi service. To the east lies a woodsy residential area along Killebrew Lake Road; to the northwest, Orcas Road winds through grassy meadows toward the island’s center, Eastsound.

Eastsound is home to an array of charming restaurants and specialty shops.

Pastor Anne Hall, 360-468-3025. Website: www.rockisland.com/~lutheransanjuans/ CenterChurch.html.

On Orcas Island, numerous venues with historic roots can provide the setting for the classic traditional wedding, large or small.

Rosario Resort, based on the 1906 Robert Moran mansion, has all facilities necessary to accommodate up to 250 people at multiple outdoor and indoor venues; 3762222 or visit www.rosarioresort.com.

With 125 years of Orcas history and registered on the Washington Historic Register, the Deer Harbor Community Club at 4319 Deer Harbor Road has been transformed from its schoolhouse roots into a renovated facility with the capacity to serve 85 wedding guests with elegance and See HISTORY, Page 8

You’ll find a library, a historical museum, grocery stores, a pharmacy, restaurants and more. Along its north and south shorelines are three public parks, and Buck Park with skate park, playground and soccer fields.

Orcas Center hosts a variety of musical, theatre and artistic offerings throughout each season.

On the southwestern prong of Orcas Island, West Sound features a cafe, a public dock and a marina, while sunny Deer Harbor offers lodging, a restaurant, and two marinas where kayak, boat and whale watching tours embark.

Southeast of Eastsound, Olga Road leads to 5,200-acre Moran State Park.

Drive, hike or cycle to the top of 2,400-foot Mount Constitution, where you can take in breathtaking 360-degree views of the outlying islands and, on clear days, the Cascade mountain range. Trails provide easy walks or rigorous, hilly climbs that intersect and add on with one another. You can spend all day exploring the island’s treasured state park. Afterward, you might enjoy picnicking at Cascade Lake’s popular sun-warmed swimming area, with a playground, barbecues and picnic tables.

Beyond the park lies Olga, with its eclectic art co-op and restaurant. Past Olga you’ll find secluded Obstruction Pass State Park, with hike-in campgrounds along a lovely pebbled beach. Point Lawrence Road leads to the hamlet of Doe Bay, with a great view of gentle waters and a historic resort.

Wherever you go on this island you will find beauty perfect for your special day.

Glorious Northwest Weddings set sail at the...

Waterfront — overlooking the Port of Friday Harbor. Within walking distance to ferry. Large reception room. Full kitchen and bar area. All serviceware and glassware included. Can accomodate 200 guests. Contact Gayle Rollins for more information.

273 Front Street P.O. Box 67 Friday Harbor, WA 98250 360~378~3434 sjiyc@rockisland.com www.sjiyc.com

All Inclusive Elopement Package For a Romantic Wedding on Orcas Island Visit our website for a detailed description.

Or

cas I

sland, Washing

ton

www.turtlebackinn.com 360-376-4914 • 1-800-376-4914 info@turtlebackinn.com 1981 Crow Valley Road, Eastsound, WA 98245

Online at: www.OrcasIslandChamber.com & www.MyOrcasIslandWedding.com Facebook: “Orcas Island Weddings” 360.376.2273 P.O. Box 252, Eastsound, WA 98245

Weddings on Orcas Island

UNIQUE EVENTS ~ ~

Weddings

Rehearsal dinners ~

Special dinners

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Featuring farm to table cuisine

360-376-5886 for reservations & information 326 Olga Road Eastsound, WA www.innatshipbay.com

Creating personal, unique and meaningful ceremonies on Orcas Island since 1993.

With the recent passage of the WA State Marriage Equality Act, we are honored to provide legal ceremonies for ALL couples.

Sandy Playa, wedding officiant Carl Burger, guitar and vocals www.WeddingsOnOrcas.com 360-376-5531

Dance Band • Jazz Band Wedding Music Dinner and Cocktail music 360.468.3163 • hawkarps@yahoo.com Serving all the islands

By Scott Rasmussen Journal editor

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ike any renowned baker of quality cakes and mouth-watering desserts, Friday Harbor’s Felicity Milne knows how to start from scratch and create something delectable.

While looking out over the landscape of the many products and services offered by local entrepreneurs, she knew all the right ingredients were in place for the San Juans’ wedding-related businesses and professionals to band together and create a wedding show of their very own, and in their own backyard. So, four years ago she set out to do just that.

And by all accounts, it’s turned out to be a smashing success.

“Over the years I noticed we had lots of vendors coming here from the mainland and I knew there were a lot of talented people in the islands who could provide those same services,” Milne said. “I thought if we brought them all together at one time, under the same roof, it would be that much easier for people to shop around and see what we have to offer here in the islands.”

The third annual Isle Be Wed wedding show, a two-day event and the only one of its kind in the San Juan Islands, will take place March 8 on Orcas Island and March 9 on San Juan Island. The show will once again feature 40 different vendors promoting an intriguing assortment of services, products and venues that can help make that very special day both truly memorable and deliciously complete. Future brides, grooms and their family and friends will be able to peruse the works, wares and products offered by businesses that specialize in local weddings and mingle with the professionals that provide them.

Co-sponsored by Kenmore Air and Orcas Weddings and Events, the 2014 Isle Be Wed show will be hosted by Orcas Island’s Random Howse, in Eastsound, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on March 8, and the following day, March 9, at Brickworks, in Friday Harbor, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. as well. Additional sponsorship has been provided by Roche Harbor Resort, Orca Inn and Patina Floral, Planning and Design.

Information on Isle Be Wed: For more about Isle Be Wed, and 2014 vendors: www.islebewed.com, facebook. com/IsleBeWed Random Howse: 365 North Beach Rd.,

Contributed photo

Felicity Milne of Cakes by Felicitations.

“The response of our vendors and vendor-sponsors has been positively overwhelming,” said Milne. “I couldn’t be more proud to help showcase our local businesses and talent.”

Rugged beauty and a romantic atmosphere have made the San Juans a popular location for a destinationwedding for decades. In that aspect, the islands sell themselves. And the recognition continues to grow. The San Juans became one of the nation’s newest national monuments in 2013 and as of late were rated the number one island in the U.S., and No. 4 in the world, by TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice, as well as No. 3 on Lonely Planet’s Top 10 U.S. Destinations for 2013.

Milne said that Isle Be Wed 2014 will be a debut for several vendors, such as a limousine service, various musicians and venues, and an Orcas-Island based distillery. And while anticipation is running high for this year’s show, she notes that the local businesses offering wedding services are already in full swing and high demand for the upcoming wedding season.

“The phone starts ringing Jan. 2,” she said. “You can almost plan on it.”

Unit 109, Eastsound; (360) 376-5873, www.randomhowse.com Brickworks: 150 Nichols St., Friday Harbor; (360) 378-0095, www.fhbrickworks.com

San Juan Jewels Diamond Rings, Earrings, and More Custom Design, Ring Sizing, Engraving 260 Spring St. (360) 378-5877

Unique floral arrangements for your special day

The

By Colleen Smith Armstrong Sounder editor

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opez Island, known as the “Friendly Isle,” is a peaceful place that is perfect for a country wedding.

Don’t be surprised if fellow motorists wave to you and your guests – it’s the island way. Lopez is also the closest of the ferryserved islands to Anacortes, making it a quick trip for you and your guests.

Although Lopez Island’s population is only around 2,400 people, you’ll find photographers and musicians to make your ceremony one to remember and venues that are lovely.

For your down time, stroll through the village, where most of the island’s businesses are located. On Saturday mornings in the summer, you’ll see shoppers perusing fresh vegetables at the farmers market and children playing in Lopez Village Park.

Wedding venues: The island offers a selection of potential ceremony venues like the Lopez Center for Community and the Arts with its wood floors, large windows and outdoor performance pavilion; Woodmen Hall was recently renovated to reflect its historical character; Lopez Island Vineyards has landscaped winery gardens for an intimate outdoor wedding location; Lopez Islander Resort is located on Fisherman Bay and includes waterfront hotel rooms and restaurant; The Galley provides a familyfriendly environment on Fisherman Bay; the

Contributed photo / Steve Horn A happy couple “ties the knot.”

Edenwild Inn has accommodations nestled in the heart of Lopez Village; Mackaye Harbor Inn is beachfront on the southend; and Lopez Farm Cottages and Tent Camping has 30 acres of privacy.

There are also quaint and beautiful churches available for tying the knot, including Center Church and Grace Episcopal Church.

Activities for guests: What makes Lopez such a romantic setting is its vast expanses of spectacular beaches and wildlife. It’s common to see great blue herons and osprey fly into the distance behind you. Take a trip to Odlin County Park and Spencer Spit State Park and your wedding guests may also catch a bald eagle soaring overhead or spy a killer whale spyhopping in the waters below.

Lopez Village, which has grocery stores, two coffee shops, several boutiques, restaurants, a bookstore, and a bakery, provides the essentials and any last minute items for your time on the island.

In addition to the accommodations listed above, there is a wide variety of private houses to rent.

Take some time to unwind and relax on Lopez during your stay. It’s a rustic, beautiful location to start the next chapter of your life.

Random Howse

offers a party space for up to 130 guests in Eastsound. Your important occasion will fit right in to this beautiful space and we provide the bar.

The Nest on Orcas Island provides fresh flowers for all occasions.

Flowers are sourced both locally and from afar.

Visit www.nestflowers.com or call 360-376-4580 18 Haven Road, Eastsound 10 am to 5:30 pm daily

Visit us on Facebook or email april@randomhowse.com for rates and availability.

Book your wedding party golf outing today!

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC DAILY! Banquet Facilities • Excellent food & beverage at the Greenside Grill www.sanjuangolfandcountryclub.com 806 Golf Course Rd, Friday Harbor • 360.378.2254

WWW.ORCASHOMES.COM/VACATIONRENTALS/ SALES: (360) 376-2202 RENTALS: (360) 376-2204

History:

Continued from page 5 grace; 360-376-4110 or www deerharborcommunityclub.org.

You’ll need to bring your own minister, but the historic 1885 Emmanuel Episcopalian Church and Parish Hall can provide an ideal setting for a traditional wedding. You might even be able to utilize the unique paved labyrinth, with a great water view to the south; orcasepiscopal.org or 360-376-2352.

The Orcas Hotel, owned and operated by Doug and Laura Tidwell, dates from 1904 and boasts complete indoor and outdoor wedding facilities, including a porch, lawn and deck with views over the Orcas ferry dock to the south. Wedding parties can

rent the entire hotel or some of it; orcas@ orcashotel.com or 360-376-4300.

Odd Fellows Hall, www.OddsHall.org, offers 2300 square feet and all the amenities in the renovated 1891 building at Madrona Point in Eastsound. A popular wedding spot (2014 is sold out already); 360-376-5640.

Finally, for a rural, homey setting, arrange your wedding and reception at the storied Red Rabbit Farm. Bruce and Christina Orchid have been hosting numerous summer weddings for up to 250 people, complete with Christina’s famous catering and hospitality; www.redrabbitfarms.com or 360-376-3208.

These are only some of many historic venues and sites for weddings. The visitors bureau website, www.visitsanjuans.com, has an extensive list of places to consider for a whatever-style wedding, old or new, that might be desired.

T

he Beach Bungalow event venue is a cozy seaside space, nestled in the village of Eastsound. The décor is a palate of soothing weathered beach colors that will serve as the perfect backdrop for your event. The best “decoration” in the room is the view from the picture windows that overlook the curved beach and sparking sound.

If you prefer to be closer to nature, say “I do” on the patio which is just steps from the beach. The Beach Bungalow is walking distance from hotels and vacation rentals. Call or email for information and a tour today Owners John and Dellarae Mattila, Venue Manager – Valerie Harris 246 Main Street (PO Box 1951) • Eastsound, WA 98245 • Phone: 360.298.6060 Web: www.orcasbeachbungalow.com • Email: beachbungalowvenue@outlook.com

By Randi (Ritchie) Mayberry Special Guest Column

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he violinists playing the processional, the wedding party in place, moments turned in several minutes and the crowd began to talk: had the groom been left at the alter? Suddenly a plane buzzed the crowd and everyone cheered. Delivered by pilot Ron Fowler, the bride had finally arrived.

“We are on our final descent for the field.”

Ron’s radio call was the last thing I heard before the yellow super-cub plane landed in my parents hayfield. My father helped me out of the plane and 300 smiling faces beamed at me in amazement. Strings played in background – my veil blew in the wind.

On the other side of the field I could see my soon to be husband, Jonathan, with a shocked look on his face, nervously waiting for me at the end of the aisle. Our fairytale was coming true.

I always knew I wanted to get married at home on my parents’ ranch on Lopez Island. When Jonathan proposed I already knew the perfect location: the field with the pretty mountain view. I’d been eyeing that spot every summer since I could remember, while working the field during the hay season. With all hands on deck, we planned a classical, chic event solely prepared and executed by family and friends.

We were married on a perfect July day; an event that was carried out seamlessly – an empty field was transformed into an outdoor haven. The scene was beautiful; flowers and candles were placed in all

Contributed photo / Natalie Hillard Randi and Jonathon Mayberry.

directions along with a custom built altar, which converted into a swing set after the ceremony. A dance floor was built right in the middle of the field and even had its own lit chandelier. With kids playing tirelessly on hay bales placed in the shape of a heart we celebrated by feasting on food including lamb and beef raised on my parents’ ranch. All organic ingredients were used and were also as locally sourced as possible. As the sun set, we lived it up surrounded by our favorite people, in wedded bliss, enjoying our own personal firework show.

is the wedding destination…

One stop shop for all your wedding needs A Lopez Tradition

WOODMEN HALL The perfect venue for your wedding and reception. Beautiful grounds and inviting space, all the amenities you need for that special day; stage, sound and lighting systems, table settings, professional kitchen, all add to the Hall’s charms.

Be part of Lopez Island History!

Please call Woodmen Hall (360) 468-3092 Or Angie, our experienced Events Coordinator (360) 468-4056 Ad sponsored by The Friends of Woodmen Hall and Lopez Senior Advisory Board

Where Food is Art Catering on or off site Offering Carnivorous, Vegetarian or Vegan Fare

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