Taos Wedding Guide 2015

Taos

A

W e dd i ng

The bridal guide for Northern New Mexico

Complimentary Publication of

The Taos News

s i m p ly e x q u i s i t e

Create a bond that lasts forever.

WHOLESALE TO THE PUBLIC CUSTOM MADE WEDDING AND ENGAGEMENT RINGS

575.758.1573 1027 SALAZAR RD. UNIT E. TAOS 2015 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

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A Taos Wedding Contents

For all your planning needs Getting married is a truly special moment in the life of any couple. Getting married in Taos — or Northern New Mexico in general — only elevates the splendor of the event.

10 Plan Ahead: A list of planning deadlines

16 Taos Wedding Expo: Chamber to host first-ever event

A Taos Wedding recognizes the importance of your day and hopes to serve as a valuable resource for all your planning needs.

20 Taos Wedding Expo: Wedding

officiant among experts offering talks during Chamber event

This year, a new and truly exceptional resource is also available to prospective brides and grooms: The Taos Wedding Expo, sponsored by the Taos County Chamber of Commerce (as well as The Taos News) will take place Feb. 28, just a couple of days after this publication hits the street. All the pertinent information for the Expo can be found in A Taos Wedding, as well as a host of other informational and entertaining features.

22 Taos Wedding Expo: Learn more

Above all, we want you to know it's your wedding ... and while following templates and blueprints are always good for the purposes of planning, you still need to be free to put your own personal touches on the occasion.

34 Weddings for all walks of life, so

about flowers from the flower diva

24 Legalize It: Make sure to file the

paperwork to get your wedding on the books

28 A venue for weddings small, large, eclectic and fun

32 Tips for making your wedding a green one

uniquely Taos

41 One year out, marriage equality takes Taos by storm

44 Let The Taos News share your good

Congratulations! Don't forget to bring your copy of A Taos Wedding when you're out and about planning your big day.

news

46 Engagement and wedding announcements

— Andy Jones, special sections editor

Staff Robin Martin, owner • Chris Baker, publisher • Joan Livingston, editor Chris Wood, advertising manager • Andy Jones, special sections editor Michelle M. Gutierrez, lead editorial designer • Jennifer Taphorn, production manager Katharine Egli, photographer • Dylan Atencio, editorial assistant On the Cover: Photo by Poetic Images by Deanna Cover design by Jennifer Taphorn

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A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

From tents to table settings, we rent everything you need for your special day.

Tents Tables & Chairs Dance Floor Linens China & Glasses Chafer Dishes Chocolate Fountain & Much More

Serving Northern New Mexico 575.758.8463 www.taoscelebrates.com

Why choose ordinary?

When you can have

! y r a n i d Extraor • Homemade (nothing comes out of a box!)

• Many flavors and choices to choose from • Hand sculpted or Original tiered cakes • Wedding, bachelorette, bachelor, anniversary, birthday, graduation, baby shower, retirement, or just because • Sugar free or gluten free cakes/ frostings options

Cakes by Mariel 575-770-0855

2015 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

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Live · Love · Celebrate 405-945-0135 www.visualityphoto.com 6

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

L a r ry m a rt i n e z J e w e L e r 822 Paseo del Pueblo Sur • 575.758.4169 AA New Mexico BBB GIA Trained #1 Jeweler Board of Trade 2015 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

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Plan ahead Six Months Or More Prior • Announce your engagement to famliy and friends.

• Create a budget.

• Set a wedding date or season.

• Select the wedding party.

Photo by BlacksCrossing

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A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

• Choose invitations.

• Select gowns and tuxedos.

• Register a name for your wedding website.

• Visit ceremony, rehearsal dinner, and reception sites.

• Interview caterers, photographers,

—continues on Page 12

Elegante Florals...

Flowers for All Occasions....

Weddings & Special Events

Elegante Florals Contemporary, traditional and UniqUe designs. mercedes Valdez 575-741-0637 taos www.eleganteflorals.com

Pro-Mobile DJ Entertainment Bridal Showcases, Corporate Events, Holiday Parties, Teen Events, Trade Shows, Weddings, Sports Jam Arena, Community Events Over 20 Years of Mobile Sound and Lighting Experience JoJo Valdez 575-741-6061 stadiumjamjojo@gmail.com

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videographers, florists, performing artists, and musicians.

• Order passports and check immunization if leaving the country.

Three to six months prior • Contact photographer, caterer, baker, florist, musicians, performing artists, and transporters.

• Schedule fittings for you and attendants.

• Finalize rentals and site for ceremony, reception, and rehearsal dinner.

• Select wedding rings.

• Finalize music selection.

• Start selecting flowers.

• Finalize honeymoon and transportation plans (commercial or private). Get it in writing so no one is confused and late.

—continues on Page 14 Photo by Poetic Images by Deanna

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We help you BookTaos!

•

Event Planning Services

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Venue Booking

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Call to schedule a consultation for your Taos Wedding. www.BookTaos.com

844-321-2665

Book@BookTaos.com

2015 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

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—continued from Page 12

Two to three months prior • Register for wedding gifts at the store of your choice.

• Send invitations.

• Complete guest list.

• Reserve block of hotel rooms for out-oftown guests.

• Update your website with directions and hotel information.

• Set hair, nail, and makeup appointments for wedding day and bridal portrait.

• Arrange care for pets if necessary.

• Get marriage license and get forms for name change if necessary.

Three to eight weeks prior • Pick a guest book.

• Have final fittings for your attendants.

• Confirm ceremony and reception logistics with officiant, musicians, florist, caterer, baker, and servers.

• Write thank-you notes for showers and mailed gifts.

• Pick up wedding rings, ring pillow, cake knife, toasting glasses, and disposable cameras.

Photo by Katharine Egli

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• Confirm honeymoon reservations and pick up tickets.

One week prior • Complete ceremony and reception seating.

• Pack for honeymoon.

• Provide “special request” photo and music lists for photographer, videographer, and ceremony and reception musicians.

• Remind attendants to pick up their formal wear.

• Finalize guest list and give to caterer or reception management.

• Assign transportation of gifts, guest book, personal belongings, and return of groom’s tuxedo.

• Arrange for post office to hold mail.

• Make spa appointment for wedding party for massage, manicures, and pedicures.

One day before • Distribute wedding day schedule to wedding party.

• Attend wedding rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.

• Nap, resting easy because all is well.

Flowers always begin with Buds

Buds Flowers 711A Paseo del Pueblo Sur Taos, NM | 575-758-3555 | silk flowers available budscutflowers.com taosflowers@qwestoffice.net

Look Your Best On Your Special Day...

Salon Services • Hair Updos • Waxing • Makeup • Massage • Ionic Detox Foot Cleanse Oxygen Bar • Relieve altitude headaches, queasy stomach and tiredness • Instant hangover cure

300 Kit Carson Rd., Taos | 575.758.7790 | HiveSalonTaos.com | Tuesday-Saturday 11am - 5pm

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Taos Wedding Expo Taos County Chamber of Commerce to host first-ever event The Taos County Chamber of Commerce will host the LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer — or questioning)16

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

friendly Taos Wedding Expo on Feb. 28, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sagebrush Inn & Suites in Taos.

This first-annual event will showcase everything any couple needs in order to plan a wedding in the Enchanted Circle communities of Taos, Taos Ski Valley, Red

River and Angel Fire. Entry tickets are $5 in advance and $7 at the door. Advance tickets may be purchased online at HoldMyTicket.com or at the Taos County Chamber of Commerce.

The Taos Wedding Expo will feature Photo by Poetic Images by Deanna

seminars about important wedding-related topics such as, how to work with your officiant to create your own ceremony and vows, hair and make-up demonstrations, how to choose flowers with meaning and distinction, a wine and food pairing —continues on Page 18

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seminar by Martyr’s Steakhouse and a wedding fashion show produced by “Project Runway” season 11 runner up, Patricia Michaels, for her PM Waterlily brand.

Taos Wedding Expo will also have exhibits and representatives from jewelers, venues, caterers, DJs, cake bakeries, musicians, florists, photographers, event rentals and officiants. There will be door prizes that include a diamond ring donated by Leshem Diamonds and Gold, honeymoon packages and honeymoon adventures for two, plus more for prospective brides and grooms.

The Taos County Chamber of Commerce is offering this event as another in the ongoing campaign to Keep Taos Local. The Chamber campaign challenges you to “put you money where your heart is!” The event will highlight local providers for local and destination weddings and events in the Enchanted Circle.

The Chamber is working with corporate sponsors to bring this event to the community. Generous sponsorship has been provided by The Taos News, Sagebrush Inn & Suites, Leshem Diamonds and Gold, Celebrations Event Rentals, Taos Mountain Casino and the Taos County Chamber of Commerce.

Photo by meganblinks.com

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Taos Wedding Expo Sagebrush Inn & Suites 1508 Paseo del Pueblo Sur Saturday, Feb. 28

The Taos County Chamber of Commerce and The Taos News announce the schedule of events at the Taos Wedding Expo.

Exhibits Open & Door Prize Drawings, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Pairing Wine & Food, noon Fashion Show with Patricia Michaels for PM Waterlily, 1 p.m.

Flowers with Margaret Palmer, 2 p.m.

Designing Your Ceremony with Susan Carpenter Sims, 2:45 p.m.

Final Door Prize Drawings (including a Diamond Ring from Leshem Diamonds & Gold), 3:30 p.m.

Local Organic - Taos Mountain Weddings at

Wedding Dress by Spotted Bear, Taos, NM Landscape: Jim Cox Portrait: Richard Speedy

Overland Ranch

Farmhouse Weddings Beautiful Mountain View And Garden Setting Flowers - Outdoor Stage - Live Music Catering - Local Gourmet Cuisine Sourced From Over 20 Ranches Including Vegetarian, Gluten Free & Vegan Fare We Welcome the LGBT Community

FarmhouseCafeandBakery.com 575-758-LOVE 1405 Pueblo del Norte Sur 3 miles N of Taos Plaza 2015 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

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Wedding Tips Wedding officiant Sims to offer tips at Wedding Expo A series of seminars during the the Taos Wedding Expo — Feb. 28 at the Sagebrush Inn & Suites in Taos — will feature a talk at 2:45 p.m. with wedding officiant Susan Carpenter Sims.

Carpenter Sims is a long-time Taos resident who is in high demand for weddings around the Enchanted Circle.

She will have Booth 28 at the show and will give a talk to the attendees about working with their officiant to design a ceremony that reflects the personal beliefs and values of the participants. She will include information about blending ceremonies with different mediums.

“I’m excited to give this talk because I think that with so many details to plan for Photo Courtesy Adobe and Pines Inn Bed and Breakfast Susan Carpenter Simms performs a wedding at Adobe and Pines Inn.

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a wedding, the ceremony itself (which is truly the heart of the wedding) can sort of get lost in the fray,” Carpenter Sims says. “Couples often know that they want something beautiful and meaningful but aren’t sure how to create that, and I love working with them to bring their own unique blend of values, style, and beliefs into the ceremony. This talk will help them in that process, whether they already have an officiant or need help figuring out how to choose one.”

Taos Wedding Expo will have exhibits and representatives from jewelers, venues, caterers, DJs, cake bakeries, musicians, florists, photographers, event rentals and officiants. There will be door prizes that include a diamond ring donated by Leshem Diamonds, honeymoon packages and honeymoon adventures for two plus more for those planning their weddings.

Specializing in Custom & Professional Wedding Design

Our full service floral design team is sure to make your wedding day one that you and your guests will remember for a life time.

Free Wedding Consultation

Make Your Wedding Exquisite at

Touchstone www.touchstoneinn.com

575-758-0192

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Flower Diva “I love doing wedding flowers! Each and every wedding is unique and special to me.” —Margaret Palmer Taos flower expert to speak at Wedding Expo The Taos Wedding Expo will feature a talk with Margaret Palmer, “Taos Flower Diva,” about choosing flowers for your celebration. The talk is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 28 at the Sagebrush Inn & Suites during the Taos Wedding Expo.

Palmer has been in Taos since 1999, designing flower arrangements with distinction. Palmer designs flowers for all occasions but particularly enjoys working with couples on their wedding flowers.

Blacks Crossing Photography

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“I love doing wedding flowers! Each and every wedding is unique and special to me,” Palmer says. “I work to understand exactly what you want. This is your special day, and I put all my efforts into it.”

Palmer’s talk at the Taos Wedding Expo will enlighten her listeners about choosing flowers that have meaning to the participants. Her unique styles will be on display at Booth 1 and throughout the venue of the Taos Wedding Expo, at the Chamber table, entrance and cocktail rounds.

The event is open to all planning celebrations of any type.

Services

Fine Jewelry

Jewelry Repair Watch Repair Custom Design Appraisal Service Batteries While You Wait

Engagement Rings Wedding Bands Diamond Jewelry Gemstone Jewelry Watches

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A Ring To Build A Dream On

Free Estimates • Free Ring Cleaning

www.chavezfinejewelers.com Piñon Plaza • Taos (575) 758-9319

DeVargas Center • Santa Fe (505) 988-8009

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Legalize It Blessed is the influence of one true, loving human soul on another.

—George Eliot Make sure your love is on the books When planning a wedding, it is important to not let things slip your mind—particularly the legal aspects of marriage.

When visiting the Taos County Clerk’s office, be sure that you both have photo identification with your birthdate, and both partners must be present at the office to sign the application. There is a filing fee of $25. The marriage license book is available at the Clerk’s office and is open to the public.

Whether you are local residents or

Photo by Poetic Images by Deanna

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not, you must attain and file a marriage license if you are married in Taos County.

Taos and New Mexico laws regarding weddings are fairly customary; couples may get married as long as they have a licensed or ordained clergy person, or a judge. No one else is recognized as a legal officiate by the state.

And be sure to remember that two witnesses, other than the officiate, must sign the marriage license. Also, be sure that your non-traditional wedding vows can hold up in a court of law.

— Staff Report

“Astounding service!

A truly world-class DJ.” -Taos Newlyweds Sabine & Gary Cook

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YOUR WEDDING DJ CALL NOW TO RESERVE YOUR DATE

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Custom Wedding Designs Inspired by Nature

The Fine Art of Flowers

Shelia Ross Designs 575.737.0245

sross307@aol.com

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Emily Beno

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A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

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Venues A venue for weddings large, small, eclectic and fun Alpine Village Suites

110 Thunderbird Road, Taos Ski Valley (800) 576-2666, alpine-suites.com The conference room is great for receptions, rehearsal dinners, or bachelor/bachelorette parties.

Amizette Inn Bed and Restaurants

1295 State Road 150, Taos Ski Valley (800) 446-8267; amizetteinn.com The inn offers onsite catering and a non-denominational Christian minister.

Angel Fire Resort Golf and Country Club 10 Miller Lane, Angel Fire (888) 472-0124; angelfireresort.com Its professional meeting

and banquet staff can offer a custom-designed club wedding.

Austing Haus Bed and Breakfast

1282 State Road 150, Taos Ski Valley (800) 748-2932; theaustinghaus.com Hold your wedding in the tallest standing timber-frame structure in the country.

The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

100 Kachina Road, Taos Ski Valley (888) 205-8020; thebavarian.net The staff is prepared to create a custom wedding in this rustic chalet-style restaurant.

Casa Benavides

137 Kit Carson Road, Taos (800) 552-1772; taos-casabenavides.com The inn boasts a beautiful courtyard for an outdoor wedding.

Photo by meganblinks.com

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Columbine Inn and Conference Center

1288 State Road 150, Taos Ski Valley (888) 884-5723; columbineinntaos.com It specializes in custom weddings of 10 to 75 people.

Edelweiss Lodge and Spa

106 Sutton Place, Taos Ski Valley (800) 458-8754; edelweisslodgeandspa.com In addition to being a great place to stay and relax, the lodge’s Club and Meeting Room is a perfect location for small events such as rehearsal dinners.

El Monte Sagrado

317 Kit Carson Road, Taos (800) 875-8675; elmontesagrado.com Every elegant detail of your wedding will be attending to by its dedicated staff.

—continues on Page 30

For Your Special Day… …Choose The Finest

Romantic Private Space Available | Restaurant Bookings | Patio Events Full Bar Service | Wine / Food Consultations | Event Planning

Whatever your dream, let us make it a reality!

146 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos | 575.751.3020 | www.martyrs-steakhouse.com 2015 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

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Hacienda del Sol

109 Mabel Dodge Lane, Taos (866) 333-4459; taoshaciendadelsol.com It offers a combination of indoor/outdoor events with expertly prepared menus.

Hotel Don Fernando de Taos 1005 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos; (800) 759-2736; donfernandodetaos.com The staff will customize the event to meet almost any imagination and budget.

Hotel La Fonda de Taos

108 S Plaza, Taos (575) 758-2211; lafondataos.com This historic hotel offers room for a 50-70 person standing reception.

Hotel St. Bernard 112 Sutton Place, Taos Ski Valley; (575) 776-2251; stbernardtaos.com The historic hotel is the perfect place for a tranquil mountain wedding.

Kit Carson Home and Museum 113 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 758-4945; kitcarsonhome andmuseum.com The courtyard and staff are at your disposal to create an intimate wedding setting.

KTAOS Solar Center 9 State Road 150, Taos (575) 758-5826; ktao.com Indoor seating arrangements here can accommodate 125 to 450 people.

Photo by meganblinks.com

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Palacio de Marquesa

405 Cordoba Road, Taos (575) 758-4777; marquesataos.com Palacio de Marquesa is the perfect place for smaller weddings with packages and specials available.

Old Martina’s Hall

4140 State Road 68, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-3003; oldmartinashall.com This restored hall offers banquet seating for up to 170 people and has a stage for the head table.

Quail Ridge Taos

88 State Road 150, El Prado (800) 624-4448; quailridgetaos.com The resort offers 6,000 square

feet of space, and numerous facilities.

Red River Conference Center 101 River Street, Red River (575) 754-1708; redriver.org With plenty of space to hold both the reception and the wedding, the center is a popular place for large scale weddings.

Sabroso Restaurant and Bar

470 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco; (575) 776-3333; sabrosotaos.com The restaurant offers yearround reception opportunities and an award-winning chef.

San Geronimo Lodge

1101 Witt Road, Taos (800) 894-4119; sangeronimolodge.com It features a vast pavilion and can host up to 300 guests.

Sierra Del Sol Condominiums Taos Country Club 13 Thunderbird Road, Taos Ski Valley (800) 523-3954; sierrataos.com It offers a leisurely walk to Taos Ski Valley’s lifts, restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

Snakedance Condominiums

110 Sutton Place, Taos Ski Valley; (800) 322-9815; snakedancecondos.com Snakedance offers a full-service restaurant and bar, as well as spa facilities.

Snow Bear Inn

22 Firehouse Road, Taos Ski Valley (800) 243-5253; snowbearinn.com The inn features accommodations including hotel rooms, luxury suites, and condo units.

54 Golf Course Drive, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-7300; taoscountryclub.com The club has an onsite wedding planner that will assist in all aspects of the wedding.

Taos Ski Valley 116 Sutton Place, Taos Ski Valley (575) 776-2291; skitaos.org A world-class wedding can be held at this world-famous ski resort.

Touchstone Inn 110 Mabel Dodge Lane, Taos (575) 758-0192; touchstoneinn.com The culinary staff at the inn prepares gourmet organic and natural foods, and can cater to vegetarian or vegan needs.

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Make it Green Tips for making your wedding a green one

By Angie Fernandez A wedding is not only a great way to share with family and friends our love and commitment to each other, it can also be used as an opportunity to share our values and dedication to our earth when we choose to implement eco-friendly practices.

By hosting a “green” event or just incorporating a few ideas, we can inspire loved ones and perhaps even save ourselves a few bucks. Here are a few ideas to help you get started:

Invitations — a few eco-friendly options to choose from when trying to get the word out about your big day include : Use recycled paper, seeded paper (card stock has wildflowers embedded in them, guests can place in dirt and water) and vegetable based inks are great options if paper invitations are mailed out Consider skipping the invitations altogether and sending out electronic “save the date” messages via Facebook, email, blogs or other social media platforms. For Grandma and other family members that Photo by meganblinks.com

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might find this a bit impersonal or don’t receive email, a quick phone call will do the trick and may be much appreciated.

Consider limiting the amount of mailings or mail out postcards with an engagement photo, which can serve as a multipurpose keepsake and will save both paper and postage.

Build a website to share wedding information. Be sure to include important information such as gift registry, transportation, maps, hotel , RSVP information, and other important event details including things to do in the area.

Themes — Choose something vintage, rustic, natural and earthy, which are all great representations of green practices Venue — Choose a venue that supports your eco-friendly interests by asking a few questions such as: • Does the venue offer onsite ceremony and reception to save transportation?

• Do they reduce, reuse, recycle, compost or implement other green practices?

• Is there a nonprofit such as a museum, art gallery, national or state park or other local business you may wish to support?

Outdoor venues, such as a historical home,

ranch, farm, botanical garden or a national park are a great places for you you and your guests to enjoy nature, but make sure to have a back up plan just in case of inclement weather.

Catering — Find companies that share your green values, which might include: • Reduce, reuse, recycle and compost • Organic, local and seasonal food options • Vegetarian or vegan options for all or most of the meal • F ree range, cage free, cruelty free and local meats are the best options • Organic and local wines • F ind a local charity, such as homeless shelter, soup kitchen or women’s shelter to donate untouched leftover food Music — DJs and bands are great, but downloading your favorite tunes on an mp3 player or phone is a great way to save money and possibly electricity and transportation costs (check with your venue to see if they rent audio equipment).

Flowers — Locally sourced and organic •D o it yourself using recycled materials or other earth-friendly items • Silk •D onate floral arrangements after the ceremony to retirement homes or hospitals

Bridal party attire — Allow bridesmaids to choose attire that they would enjoy wearing again as long as it matches your color scheme/theme Rentals for groom/groomsmen or wear again attire are both great ways to reuse Photography:

• Have photographer send a disc with photos and only have desired photos printed or emailed to friends and family • These days, smart phones with built in cameras are more common than not. Have your guests take pictures and have them emailed, downloaded onto a thumb drive or sent via Facebook

Guest accommodations — choose hotels that implement eco-friendly practices and are close to venue or popular area attractions that your guests may enjoy or that offer group /public transportation.

Party Favors — Choose multi-purpose party favors by choosing items that may serve as both decoration and gift Gifts to inspire — reusable coffee cups, water bottles, shopping bags or other items that will encourage your guests to go green after your event

Transportation — Use public transportation or make a suggestion to your quests to carpool. This is also a great way to make sure there are designated drivers are available

DIY — make gifts with love •O ffer favors that your guests can grow such as potted herbs or seedling packets • E dible favors such as fair trade and organic dark chocolate or tea •N atural and locally made soaps, candles • Choose sensible gifts that will be used

Officiant — Do you have a friend or family member that is or can be ordained to officiate your event? This would reduce a meal, another fee and transportation

• Natural grooming/beauty products •G ift certificates to support local or sustainable businesses

Wedding dress — Choose a gently used or vintage option •C hoose a natural fiber/ eco-friendly materials • Support a local seamstress • Choose a style that might be worn again •C onsider donating/selling dress after the special event Rings — Research eco friendly ring options: • Vintage (gently loved) • Family heirlooms • Research conflict-free diamonds

Bridal party gifts:

Gift registry — allow your registry to reflect your values by allowing guests to choose to gift to your favorite charities Vacation — research sustainable tourism options that include volun”tourism” and ecotourism, which are great ways to enjoy nature or give back • Cash or gift certificates • Eco-friendly home and personal products Angie Fernandez is a health and wellness educator and a volunteer with the Taos community health council (Taos C.A.R.E.S).

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Weddings for all walks of l

By Teresa Dovalpage Couples willing to say “I do” need not look any farther — from secluded inns to high altitude havens, Northern New Mexico offers them a variety of venues to tie the knot and enjoy their marital bliss in idyllic settings.

A resort wedding in the heart of Taos Among the many features that make Taos the perfect place for a wedding is the intense light of the desert, which has been attracting painters and photographers for over a century.

“Taos’ light is great for romantic portraits,” said Dan Wardlow, who married Joe, his partner of 10 years, last May at El Monte Sagrado. “Our photographer, Megan Bowers Avina (meganblinks.com), did a great job capturing it as well as the joy of the day.”

Their wedding was somewhat traditional and somewhat unconventional.

“Which is appropriate for the kind of people we are,” said Wardlow.

Traditions were represented by the exchange of wedding vows and rings and the presence of two bridesmaids, a best man and a maid of honor.

“We danced after dinner and had a beautiful cake that we cut together,” said Wardlow. “Among the nontraditional aspects was the fact that we were married by a minister who is also a well-known drag queen, Rev. Latrice Royale. Our dogs also participated in the ceremony: Arlo, the labradoodle, was the ring bearer and Alice, the goldendoodle, was the flower girl.”

Wardlow praises El Monte Sagrado

Photos on page 34 by Poetic Images by Deanna. Photos on page 35 by meganblinks.com.

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life, so uniquely Taos for providing a wonderful setting for the ceremony and taking care of the cocktail hour and the dinner after the wedding. Many of their guests stayed there too.

“We highly recommend Taos as a destination wedding place,” he said. “Fortyfive of our friends came from out of town and they were so enchanted with it that they promised to come back.”

Personalized weddings Sajit Greene is a wedding officiant and interfaith minister whose wedding ceremonies are not based in any particular religious tradition. She works with the couple to find out what they want and customizes the ceremony according to their preferences and values.

She was once called to officiate in an impromptu wedding ceremony that would take place in a few hours at the Gorge Bridge.

“This couple called me from Albuquerque at 10 o’clock in the morning and wanted to get married here in the afternoon,” she said.

“But then it became very windy, so I took them to the Farmhouse Café instead. Micah Roseberry, the owner, allowed us to do the ceremony there and gave the couple gift certificates. Two customers at the restaurant happily signed the marriage license as witnesses.”

Greene can prepare an “elopement ceremony” for just the couple, or a bigger and more elaborate one for family and friends.

“What I love about weddings is that I get to be with people — the couple, their relatives and friends — on a day when everyone’s hearts are open and there is so much joy,” she said. “Even though I usually don’t know the couple well, there is an amazing bond that is formed in that moment, when I am —continues on Page 36

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—continued from Page 35

celebrating their love and commitment with them. It is a very special time, truly a life passage, and I always feel honored to be part of it. Sometimes I am so moved that I cry.”

Greene just officiated a wedding at Palacio de Marquesa, an ideal TAos venue for a small intimate gathering or a honeymoon destination.

“Our luxury retreat pays homage to famous women artists who have lived in Taos,” said Palacio de Marquesa resident general manager Chad Ozment. “We also have complimentary gourmet breakfasts, inroom spa services and many packages. If you are thinking of a Southwestern getaway for Valentine’s Day, this is the place for you.”

A sheltered paradise The secluded grounds at Touchstone Inn provide a great option for those who want a unique Taos wedding.

“People can choose among many special sites in our gardens, that border Taos Pueblo lands,” said Touchstone Inn owner, artist and writer Bren Price. “We have grassy lawns, secret patios and playing fountains.”

As part of the service, Price provides an interfaith minister, two witnesses, flowers, and a cake and champagne reception for two.

One of her ministers is Rev. Shaman Sandra Chestnutt, who can also create a personalized ceremony for the couple.

Marriage as sacrament Fran Martínez has been the secretary of the Holy Trinity Parish in Arroyo Seco for over 20 years. She is the first person couples talk to when they want a Catholic wedding, then she refers them to the priest.

“The most important issue about a marriage celebrated in the Catholic Church is the fact that this is a sacrament,” Martínez said. “It isn’t just about a beautiful ceremony, a lasso, flowers or candles. Marriage is for life and the couple is required to take a preparation class before in order to understand their duties and responsibilities.”

They have to receive three more sacraments before the wedding — baptism, first communion and confirmation, and choose wedding sponsors.

“The padrino and the madrina are spiritual guides for the newlyweds,” said Martínez.

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A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

“They are often a married couple that the groom and the bride respect. A madrina is much more than a bridesmaid.”

Worship and wedding groove In the Taos-based Christian Church Lluvias de Gracia (Rains of Grace) a wedding is a lively ceremony where music plays a big role. The choir has four keyboards, guitars, drums and several vocalists.

“We conduct our ceremonies with respect, but also with joy,” says Pastor Roberto Rugelio.

“And it’s totally free. If someone wants to make a donation, we gratefully accept it, but we don’t charge a cent.”

Angel Fire Resort: love at high altitude Angel Fire Resort caters to weddings “from 10 people to 500,” says Krysty Ronchetti, PR representative, SJ Communications.

“We make sure that the bride and groom tie a beautiful time and space to their wedding memories,” she said. “The Sangre de Cristo Mountains provide the best background to that special moment.”

Their venues range from rather casual at The Lodge to the more formal Country Club rooms.

“We have something for everyone,” Ronchetti said. “Indoors and outdoors, day or night, the possibilities are endless. Trust Angel Fire Resort to host the mountain wedding of your dreams.”

Wedding options for all Angel Fire Resort 10 Miller Lane, Angel Fire (575) 377-6401 Touchstone Inn 110 Mable Dodge Lane, Taos (575) 758-0192 Palacio de Marquesa 405 Cordoba St., Taos (855) 846-8267 El Monte Sagrado Resort and Spa 317 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 758-3502 Holy Trinity Parish 498 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco (575) 776-2273

Taos Wedding Expo Saturday, February 28, 2015 | 11:00 am – 4:00 pm Sagebrush Inn & Suites | 1508 Paseo del Pueblo Sur | Taos, NM

© tina Larkin

2015 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

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Taos Wedding Expo Booth Map

40

Booth Name of Business Cakes 7................... Jocelyn’s Cakes 15................. Cakes by Mariel 25................. Medley.Dinner. Drinks.Wineshop Catering 9................... Brett House Catering 17................. Martyr’s Steakhouse 35................. Delancy Street Foundation Cosmetics & Dermatology 16................. Rodan + Fields 36................. A More Youthful You Today 24................. Pixies’ Workshop DJ’s & Sound Engineering 4................... Defiant Soundz Unlimited 41................. DJ Oliver Knight 20................. Pro DJ Entertainment 40................. Plane Walker’s Mobile DJ Service 41................. Soundworks Event Rentals 14................. Celebrations Event Rentals Fashion 23................. ReNeux Consignment 31................. Patricia Michaels for PM Waterlily Flowers 1................... Margaret Palmer Floral Design 27................. The Enchanted Florist 19................. Elegante Florals

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A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

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Booth Name of Business Hair 24................. HairTaos 32................. Hive Salon & Oxygen Bar Insurance 42................. Wanda Lucero State Farm Agency Jewelers 21................. Leshem Diamonds & Gold Officiant 28................. Enchanted Circle Ceremonies Photography 2................... Tina Larkin 5................... Southern Exposure Photography 8................... Blacks Crossing Photography 38................. Sean Kelly Portraits Travel Agent 10................. BookTaos.com Venues 3................... El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa 6................... Red River Conference Center 11................. Taos Art Museum at Fechin House 17 ................ Martyrs Steakhouse 18................. Taos Country Club 39................. River Paradise Weddings 26................. Taos Ski Valley 29................. Old Martina’s Hall 33................. Angel Fire Resort 37................. KTAO Solar Center 22................. Sagebrush Inn & Suites 35................. Delancy Street Foundation

Taos wedding expo

Schedule of Events Sagebrush Inn & Suites | 1508 Paseo del Pueblo Sur | Taos, NM

Saturday, February 28, 2015 Tickets $7.00 at Door Exhibits Open & Door Prize Drawings...........................................11:00 am - 4:00 pm Pairing Wine & Food with Martyrs Steakhouse .............................12:00 pm Fashion Show with Patricia Michaels .............................................1:00 pm for PM Waterlily Flowers with Margaret Palmer ........................................................2:00 pm Designing Your Ceremony ..............................................................2:45 pm with Susan Carpenter Sims Final Door Prize Drawings .............................................................3:30 pm including a Diamond Ring from Leshem Diamonds & Gold

www.taoschamber.com Sponsored By Diamonds & Gold

2015 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

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Taos Wedding Expo Exhibitors CAKES Jocelyn’s Cakes www.taosweddingcakes.com 575-751-6281 Cakes by Mariel Luv143@hotmail.com 575-770-0855 medley.dinner.drinks.wineshop colleen@medleyinelprado.net 716-904-0661 CATERING Brett House Catering www.bretthousecatering.com 575-751-6580 Martyrs Steakhouse www.martyrs-steakhouse.com 575-751-3020 Delancy Street Foundation www.dsf.com 505-852-4291 COSMETICS & DERMATOLOGY A More Youthful You Today www.amoreyouthfulyoutoday.com 575-613-8045 Rodan + Fields www.mgonzales.myrandf.com 575-779-2260 Pixies’ Workshop www.pixiesworkshop.net 415-699-8022 DJ’S & SOUND ENGINEERING Defiant Soundz Unlimited www.defiantsoundzunlimited.com 505-629-9635 DJ Oliver Knight djoliverknight@gmail.com 575-779-5705 Plane Walker’s Mobile DJ Service www.taosweddingdj.com 505-692-5411 Pro DJ Entertainment stadiumjamjojo@gmail.com 575-741-6061 Soundworks aiden@ktao.com 575-779-4413 EVENT RENTALS Celebrations Event Rentals www.taoscelebrates.com 575-758-8463

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FASHION ReNeux Consignment 575-758-4460

Sean Kelly Portraits www.seankellyportraits.com 575-770-4367

Patricia Michaels for PM Waterlily www.patriciamichaels.com 575-779-5322

TRAVEL AGENT BookTaos.com www.booktaos.com 844-321-2665

FLOWERS Margaret Palmer Floral Design www.taosflowerdiva.com 575-741-0408 The Enchanted Florist www.taosflorist.com 575-758-3030 Elegante Florals www.eleganteflorals.com 575-741-0637

VENUES Angel Fire Resort www.angelfireresort.com 575-377-4216 BookTaos.com www.booktaos.com 844-321-2665 Delancy Street Foundation www.dsf.com 505-852-4291

HAIR HairTaos www.hairtaos.com 575-613-2999

El Monte Sagrado Resort & Spa www.elmontesagrado.com 575-737-9822

Hive Salon & Oxygen Bar www.hivesalontaos.com 575-758-7790

KTAO Solar Center www.ktao.com 575-758-5826

INSURANCE Wanda Lucero State Farm Insurance Agency www.wandalucero.com 575-737-5433 JEWELERS Leshem Diamonds & Gold www.leshemdiamonds.com 800-660-8885 | 575-758-1573 LOCAL MEDIA, NEWS & ADVERTISING The Taos News www.taosnews.com 575-758-2241 OFFICIANT Enchanted Circle Ceremonies susanthescribe@gmail.com 575-770-3946

Martyrs Steakhouse www.martyrs-steakhouse.com 575-751-3020 Old Martina’s Hall www.oldmartinashall.com 575-758-3003 Red River Conference Center www.redriver.org 575-754-1708, ext. 2 River Paradise Weddings www.riverparadiseweddings.com 617-947-9016 Sagebrush Inn & Suites www.sagebrushinn.com 800-428-3626

PHOTOGRAPHY Tina Larkin larkin.tina@gmail.com 505-270-5593

Taos Art Museum at Fechin House www.taosartmuseum.org 575-758-2690

Southern Exposure Photography www.southernexposurephoto.com 575-754-6495

Taos Country Club www.taoscountryclub.com 757-758-7300

Blacks Crossing Photography www.blackscrossing.com 575-741-1244

Taos Ski Valley www.taosskivalley.com 575-776-1413

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

One year out, marriage equality takes Taos by storm

By Cody Hooks Reg Stark and Dale Schuette know a thing or two about love and commitment, having been together for more than 34 years. But the couple became famous in Taos for being the first same-sex couple to legally wed in the county, offering validation to that commitment. In august 2014, the two celebrated their very first wedding anniversary.

Instead of traveling to Bernalillo or Santa Fe counties, where clerks had already been issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples, Stark and Schuette decided to keep it local.

When they filed suit against the county to get a marriage license in 2013, Eighth Judicial District Judge Jeff McElroy ruled in their favor the same afternoon. He married them and three other couples the following Photo by meganblinks.com

day at the Taos County Complex amid tears and cheers from a crowd of family, friends and LGBTQ rights activists.

And one year out, marriage equality seems to have taken Taos by absolute storm. Between August 2013 and August 2014, just under half of all marriage licenses issued in the county — 241 of 489 — were given to same-sex couples.

Almost a quarter of all marriage licenses issued to same-sex couples are like Stark and Schuette, residents of the county. Most were lesbians, at 29 couples. Twenty gay couples from Taos County were wed during the same period.

Four other licenses went to couples from Albuquerque. The rest, all 188 of them, went to out-of-state couples from the region.

Couples from our northern neighbor, Colorado, represented the majority of those —continues on Page 42

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—continued from Page 41

came to Taos from Oklahoma.

licenses. Just over a quarter, or 62 licenses, went to female couples from that state while just 13 licenses went to gay couples.

A similar but larger-scale trend was reported in Santa Fe, where again, over half of that county’s licenses went to gay and lesbian couples.

While courts in Colorado have taken action in recent months to inch that state closer toward marriage equality, their laws are far more ambiguous than in New Mexico where in December 2013 the New Mexico Supreme Court ruled made marriage equality the law of the land.

Unsurprisingly, two other neighboring states with ambiguous marriage equality laws have large contingents of LGBTQ newlyweds married in Taos county. From Texas, 27 female couples and 16 male couples have been wed, while 14 couples Photos by Poetic Images by Deanna

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A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

And a handful of the 482 LGBTQ people to marry in Taos had a surprising officiant — Dale Schuette.

He registered as an on-call celebrant, meaning that if people go the county courthouse to get married but no judges are available, they can call Schuette to be married that same day.

When asked why he became a wedding officiant for the county, Schuette said it was fun to do, and a worthwhile service.

Schuette and Stark, who have lived in Taos 12 years, are both retired.

“I’ve married eight couples so far,” Schuette told The Taos News in a Sept. 2014 interview. “I’ve married lesbian couples, gay men and even one young Hispanic couple — and they were straight, too.”

Schuette presided over two weddings at the Gorge Bridge, the place he called his “favorite spot in Taos” to perform such ceremonies.

While Schuette isn’t a celebrity celebrant, he and Stark are local celebrities, of sorts.

For six months after their wedding, they said “we couldn’t go to the grocery store without really excited people stopping us to say, ‘You’re famous.’ We just say we are more notorious than famous,” Schuette jested. “We’ve been very well received in the

community.”

Taos’ first couple to take advantage of New Mexico’s marriage equality declined further attention from state and national media, Stark said.

“It sounds a little weird,” Schuette said. “To say ‘my husband Reg’ and hear ‘my husband Dale’ — just because we’ve never used that word before.”

“It does feel different,” Schuette said.

“It’s hard to describe, even after we’ve talked to other same-sex couples who’ve gotten married. It feels ...” he paused. “It’s hard to describe, but finally, finally we are recognized.”

Other than that? “It’s the same old same old.”

A version of this story appeared in the Sept.

4 edition of The Taos News.

2015 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

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Announcements Let The Taos News share your good news Now that the proposal has been made, the next thing to do is spread the news.

After you’ve told your close friends and family, share it with the world through The Taos News.

The newspaper is glad to print wedding and engagement announcements, and will do so as a free provision to the Taos community, space permitting. Feel free to use the form provided in this special section (pages 46 and 48) to fill out your information.

Notices of engagements generally tend Photo by Poetic Images by Deanna

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A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

to contain information about the couple, their parents, hometowns, and the date of the wedding. Wedding announcements include information about the partners, their respective families, the date and location the wedding was held, and the wedding party members.

Feel free to drop off your notice in person at The Taos News, 226 Albright St. You may also include a photo, which we will scan into our system. However, we prefer that you send all information, including photos, via email to editor@ taosnews.com. If emailed, please send the photo in the largest size possible (we print at 200 dpi). Please include your phone number, so we may reach you if we have further questions.

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2015 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

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Announcements Engagement Announcement The engagement of (bride) of (town) to (groom) of (town) has been announced: ________________________________________ Her parents are (names) of (town): _________________________________________________ A (date, month, season) wedding is planned at (location): ________________________________________ (Bride) is a graduate of/attends (high school, vocational school, college): _________________________________________________________ She is a member of (clubs, affiliations): _________________________________________________________ She is employed by (employer): ________________________________________ (Groom) is the son of (names) of (town): _________________________________________________ He is a graduate of/attends (high school, vocational school, college): _________________________________________________________ He is a member of (clubs, affiliations): _________________________________________________________ He is employed by (employer): ________________________________________ Signature and telephone number of responsible party: _________________________________________________________ Note: Engagements are published in The Taos News as space permits. Please bring information into The Taos News offices a month before the wedding.

Announcements may be accompanied by a photograph of the bride or couple.

Color photos are preferred, although black and white is acceptable. If neither the bride nor groom is a Taos-area resident, list the nearest relative living in the Taos area. Email is the preferred method for receiving announcements. Send email to editor@taosnews.com.

Or, mail forms and photos to: The Taos News, P.O. Box 3737, Taos, NM 87571.

Attn: Engagement announcements 46

A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

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47

Announcements Wedding Announcement The marriage of (bride’s maiden name) of (town) to (groom’s name) (date) occurred in (location): __________________________________ (Clergyman, other) officiated in the double/ single ring ceremony: __________________________________

Bridesmaids were (names, towns, relationships): __________________________________ Best main was (name) of (town), (relationship to couple): __________________________________

The bride’s parent are of:

Groomsmen were (names, towns, relationships):

__________________________________

__________________________________

The groom’s parents are of:

Flowergirl was (name) of (town), (relationship to couple):

__________________________________ The (location) was decorated with (altar, flowers, candles, other): __________________________________ Music was provided by (organist, soloist, other): __________________________________ The bride wore (simple description of the dress and headpiece, including unusual or traditional elements): __________________________________

__________________________________ Ringbearer was (name) of (town), (relationship to couple): __________________________________ The wedding cake was (description of cake): __________________________________ The bride is employed at: __________________________________

She carried (flowers):

The groom is employed at:

__________________________________

__________________________________

The maid/matron of honor was (name) of (town), (relationship to couple):

Signature and telephone number of responsible party:

__________________________________

__________________________________

Note: Wedding notices should run in The Taos News no later than a month after the event.

Wedding announcements may be accompanied by a photograph of the bride or the couple. Either color or black and white is acceptable. If neither the bridge nor groom is a Taos-area resident, please list the nearest relative living in the Taos area. Email is the preferred method for receiving announcements: editor@taosnews.com Otherwise, mail forms to: The Taos News, P.O. Box 3737, Taos, NM 87571 Attn: Wedding announcement

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A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

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2015 • taosnews.com/wedding • A Taos Wedding

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A Taos Wedding • taosnews.com/wedding • 2015

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