Coastal Wedding Magazine Autumn/Winter 2023

PUBLISHER

Patrice Edwards

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Camisa Composti-Talbott

EDITOR

Jondi Gumz

ART & DESIGN

Ward J. Austin

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Cathe Race

MEDIA CONSULTANTS

Teri Huckobey, Brooke Valentine

Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 Phone: 831.688.7549

Fax: 831.688.7551

sales@coastalwedding.com

coastalwedding.com

To advertise in Coastal Wedding Magazine please call (831) 688-7549.

Coastal Wedding is a publication of Times Publishing Group, Inc., located at 9601 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA 95003. Entire contents ©2023 by Patrice Edwards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without publisher’s written permission.

Choosing your Bridesmaids

One of the exciting times during your engagement is asking your bridesmaids to be a part of your special day. As marriage proposals have grown more elaborate, it’s no surprise that bridesmaids proposals have followed. Being a bridesmaid can be a large time and financial commitment, it’s important to show the girls you’re choosing how much they mean to you and how much you appreciate their willingness to help you (and celebrate) with this next chapter of your life.

We know you’ve had your list of bridesmaids chosen forever, but why not make the delivery fun for them? We’re here to help you with the perfect bridesmaid proposal idea….there are many fun ways to pop the questions to your bridesmaids, from gift boxes, sentimental keepsakes, to turning it into a game with crossword puzzles.

The traditional proposal: A simple way of asking your ladies to be a part of your wedding party, a card is a fail-safe option that allows for plenty of creativity with your words.

A Gift Box Proposal: Your bridesmaids will likely treasure something more personal, a box filled with goodies makes for a nice bridesmaid proposal.

Edible Proposal: Sweeten up your bride tribe with cookies, chocolates, candy or all of the above. Personalized treats popping the question are delicious and thoughtful.

A Keepsake Gift: A necklace, bracelet, something that can be kept forever. It’s sure to keep you and your bridesmaid together forever.

A Bridesmaid Proposal Balloon: Add an element of surprise with your bridesmaid proposal, they’ll have to pop the balloon to find the much anticipated question. f

Five Essential Planning Tips –Make Your Outdoor Wedding Perfect!

There’s so much to love about an outdoor wedding. Whether it’s set on the beach, at a winery or even in the backyard of a family member, pledging your eternal commitment to your partner in beautiful natural surroundings makes the day extra memorable.

If you’re thinking of holding the big day in the great outdoors, you’re in good company. Over the past decade, outdoor ceremonies are on the rise: 52 percent of couples tied the knot in an outdoor ceremony in 2018. Couples vision of their dream wedding can be dramatically different. Some opt for churches, hotels and banquet halls as settings for the ceremony receptions and others opting for less conventional sites, such as rooftop event spaces, historic homes, wineries and parks.

Unlike the traditional venues, an outdoor ceremony and reception has its own set of considerations when it comes to planning. These practical tips will get you started in building the outdoor wedding of your dreams.

• Sketch out the itinerary early: Before you sign the contract with your chosen venue, discuss in detail your vision with the coordinator, and before you leave, be perfectly clear on what’s permissible and what’s off-limits. If you’re envisioning dancing the night away under the stars, you don’t want to find out three weeks before the big day that the venue has restrictions on equipment and noise. Before you sign any contract, have your itinerary ready and discuss it from start to finish.

• Plan your equipment needs: One thing to know about holding a wedding in a less conventional spot is venues can vary wildly on what they can provide for you in terms of supplies and equipment. Take time to walk through the entire event so you’re clear on what you may need to supply yourself. Even if a venue lacks essentials like power outlets and bathroom stalls, don’t give up.

There are great solutions out there to help you create the space to a beautiful venue. Your local rental store, for example, is an essential stop for anyone planning a wedding. In addition to all the wedding gear you could need, from decorations to seating, they also have lots of other equipment and ideas to help you plan the perfect outdoor event.

• Always have a Plan B: It’s impossible to predict what the weather will bring for an outdoor wedding, which can add uncertainty. But you can reduce the stress by planning for the worst conditions. Is hot and humid weather a possibility? How about a thunderstorm? A deposit on a rented air-conditioned tent and a set of misting fans can be a smart move. You may not end up needing these, but your peace of mind will be worth every penny.

• Set up a kids’ station: Many outdoor reception spaces have a built-in advantage for hosting pint-sized guests: There’s more space for them to stretch their legs and be kids without disrupting other guests. Create a kid-friendly corner featuring games, activities or even a rented inflatable bounce house that lets kids be active and let off some steam. They’ll be thrilled (and so will their parents).

• Encourage exploration: If the big event is held in a public place, help your guests fully appreciate the experience. Does the park have a hiking path that leads to a beautiful waterfall? Have maps printed and leave out a stack for those who decide to take a little break. Are you getting married in a beautiful garden at a historic mansion? Ask the venue if you can take extra brochures to offer the guests, or set aside time for special guided tours. This is a sure way to show consideration for your guests and make the day memorable.

When the pieces fall into place, planning and hosting an outdoor wedding is a beautiful way to begin your lives together. (BPT) f

First Dance Songs Top 10

1. “Golden Hour” by JVKE

2. “Speechless” by Dan + Shay

3. “Hold My Hand” by Lady Gaga

4. “Until I Found You” by Stephen Sanchez

5. “you” by Dan + Shay

6. “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran

7. “Lover” by Taylor Swift

8. “Beyond” by Leon Bridges

9. “ILY” by Surf Mesa Ft. Emilee

10. “Stuck with you”

by Ariana Grande & Justin Bieber

Vibrant Color Vibes

Are you beginning to plan your wedding? Wondering what color scheme you should go with? Well, we’re here to tell you that VIBRANT colors are IN and will be for 2024 too!

When it comes to planning a wedding, there are so many details a couple needs to have in place for their perfect day. Selecting wedding colors is a task that can really elevate your wedding but its a task that will affect several other details. Your wedding colors are essentially the building block around your whole wedding, from selecting your venue to your bridal party attire. Your wedding colors are a big deal!

So how can you incorporate vibrant colors into your wedding?

• Floral runners – think all the bright

• Linens – you can add a pop of color with your table linens such as your napkins

• Ceremony Arch – whether you choose a bold floral arch or a colored arch adding color into your ceremony can really make a statement

• Center Pieces for Tables – whether floral center pieces or an art piece make them BRIGHT

• Your Dessert & Cake – add a touch of vibrance with your cake, you can even incorporate live florals on your cake

• Add a pop of color to your wedding stationary - add some color to your stationary ... the outside envelope, the text inside or a small pop of color with the wax seal. f

La Vigna Event Center & Hecker Pass Winery

Imagine having your next special event in the most serene and exquisite setting nature has to offer. La Vigna Event Center, at Hecker Pass Winery, gives you the opportunity to gather family and friends in a breathtaking setting, complete with views of picturesque vineyards and rolling hills.

Here at La Vigna Event Center, we offer customizable, all-inclusive event packages. We can host your special event. We are open yearround and offer all the amenities that you may need for your special event. Our banquet room boasts handmade, arched redwood doors, a grand polished granite bar, picture windows and French doors that lead out to our expansive, covered outdoor patio. The covered patio and open dance floor offer unobstructed views of our vineyard and the surrounding hills, making it a natural backdrop for lasting and memorable pictures. Impress your guests with our premium wines at our custom-built Barrel Bar. A beautifully furnished bridal room is discreetly tucked away from the rest of the facility.

All-inclusive event packages can include food from a celebrated local chef, tables, chairs, linens, overlays, dinnerware, stemware, and flatware. Services we provide include full set up, bar and table service, as well as full clean up. We offer a full list of preferred vendors to assist in finding everything from photography to cake. La Vigna Event Center’s staff will make the planning and execution of your event as stress free as possible.

We Produce Old World Wine, For the Next Generation

Hecker Pass Winery was established in 1972 by a third-generation vintner from Italy. Our wines are produced in an old European style through dry farming, head pruning, hand picking, and wild yeast fermentation. No herbicides, pesticides or cultured yeast are used to produce natural wines with true Italian character. The fourth and fifth generations of our family are continuing the legacy and tradition in the art of fine winemaking. We truly produce old world wines, in a sustainable fashion, for the next generation. Now celebrating over 50 years!

Countdown to the Big Day

Weddings take time to organize. For most of us it’s the most time consuming

Here is a comprehensive list of activities and the time lines necessary to have The two of you are entering into a lifetime partnership so don’t hesitate to

Recommended preparation to do the months before the wedding: 7-12 months before 2-7 months before

✓ Order or make your wedding invitations

✓ Hire your limousine driver or other transportation

✓ Hire your hair stylist

✓ Compile a guest list

✓ Start planning your honeymoon destination

✓ Order your rings

✓ Send out RSVP invitations

✓ Arrange your rehearsal dinner

✓ Get fitted for tuxedos

✓ Announce your engagement

✓ Arrange a meeting with both sides of the family

✓ Decide on a wedding date

✓ If using a wedding planner ask for recommendations and start the interview process

✓ Look for wedding and/or reception venues

✓ Shop for your wedding gown

✓ Hire an officiant

✓ Choose a wedding party

✓ Get your bridal registry started

✓ Order your wedding gown

✓ Select what type of food you are having and choose a catering service

✓ Shop for bridesmaid and groomsmen outfits

✓ Hire a photographer and/or videographer

✓ Choose your florist

✓ Book your DJ or band

✓ Shop for your cake and pastries

✓ Meet with DJ or band to discuss ceremony and reception music

✓ Order bridesmaid gifts and groomsmen gifts

✓ Order your wedding cake

✓ Order your wedding favors and place card holders

Your Checklist

consuming and complex event we will ever attempt. have a successful and memorable wedding. to share these responsibilities with your future spouse.

Preparation to do the days leading up to the wedding:

2-8 weeks before day before day of

✓ Have the planner reconfirm details such as transportation, flowers, music, cake delivery, photography, etc.

✓ Try to get an early night

✓ Take a deep breath you’re almost there!

Before you leave the house, take time to thank your mother, father, bridesmaids and attendants for all their help and support and give each of them a gift . Relax and have fun – It’s your big day!

✓ Decide on your makeup and do a quick check wearing your headpiece

✓ Make any alterations to your wedding dress

✓ Call the clerk’s office to find out the requirements for your marriage-license

✓ Decide on any critical insurance information that might need changing

✓ Confirm all the details with your DJ, florist, caterer and any other service you’re booking

✓ Decide on the seating arrangements

✓ Give your caterer a final count of your wedding guests

✓ Pack for your honeymoon

✓ Assign simple tasks such as transporting all reception and ceremony items

✓ Write a nice toast

After the Honeymoon

Send out your thank-you notes and include a reference to the gift. For the caterers, entertainers, florists, etc. that gave good service, write them a thank you letter praising their professionalism. Finally, begin your married life! f

Skin Care Prep for Your Wedding ClassicFirst Dance Songs Top 10

Your skin preparation for your wedding may start up to one year before your wedding! There’s nothing that we want more than clear skin for your wedding day. If you’ve never had any prior skin treatments its’ important to book your initial consultation appointment at a reputable medical clinic.

1 Year Prior Appointments

It’s important to narrow down your desired result so you can communicate with your medical professional what your skin goals are. 9-12 months prior to your wedding is a good time to book your treatments that require downtime such as deep chemical peels, and micro needling with PRP.

6 months prior Appointments

Skin treatments to book six months before the wedding include laser, micro needling and an additional peel which gives your skin downtime prior to saying “I do”. It’s also important to focus on maintaining your skin and giving it the hydration and nutrients it needs after treatments. Six months prior to your wedding is a good time to try any medical aesthetics such as botox, dysport and other fillers to see how your body reacts if it’s something you haven’t done before.

3 Months Prior Appointments

1. "The Way You Look Tonight" – Frank Sinatra

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Three months is a good mark to not try anything new on your skin, just in case of a negative reaction. This is the time to focus on your skin-care routine!

8.

9.

10.

"At Last" – Etta James

"The Very Thought of You" – Billie Holiday

"I Just Can’t Stop Loving You" – Michael Jackson

"Can’t Help Falling in Love with You"

Elvis Presley

"Unforgettable" – Nat King Cole

7. "That’s Amore" – Dean Martin

"Unchained Melody "– The Righteous Brothers

"This Will Be" (An Everlasting Love) – Natalie Cole

"Wonderful Tonight" – Eric clapton

1 Month Prior Appointments

This is the time to freshen up your botox and fillers. One month is the perfect amount of time for these treatments to be done to receive their full affects by your big day.

Always check with your medical professional for your personal goals and timeline. f

Santa Cruz

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Cruz is the perfect blend of surf, sand, and magnificent redwoods. Couples with adventure on their minds will find miles of hiking and biking trails winding their way through hills, forests, and meadows of the county. Both California beach and mountain parks, including the state’s first, Big Basin Redwoods State Park, are just minutes from each other.

Our famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk that has been providing fun for its visitors with its rides and games for over one hundred years. Ride on the Big Dipper, one of the oldest roller coasters in the country. On one of Monterey Bay’s endless beaches you can sun bathe or catch a wave at one of Santa Cruz’s famous breaks. How about kayaking across giant kelp beds while keeping your eyes open for resident sea otters, harbor seals, and California Sea Lions? If you and/or your new spouse are surfers, you’ve come to the right place. There are many surf spots along the coast in Santa Cruz, one of them is waiting for you!

Browse the many quaint beach towns and their shopping and dining areas, including 41st Avenue, the Pacific Garden Mall, Aptos, and the Capitola and Soquel Villages where you can look for that one-of-a-kind item to commemorate the beginning of your life as a married couple. Wine connoisseurs will find dozens of wineries and tasting rooms dotting the Santa Cruz Mountains. f

Top Four Coastal

Iconic Steamer Lane doing what it does best.

Honeymoon Hideaways

Monterey

Monterey is most commonly know as California’s first capitol and by it's immortalization in John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row. Monterey is a thriving seaside community who’s past and future are marked by the Central Coast’s extensive marine wildlife. Get up close and personal with sea creatures of all shapes and sizes at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Live exhibits include the only great white shark in captivity in the world.

Spend the day on the bay on a kayak. Explore the largest Marine Sanctuary in the U.S. covering more than 249 miles from the Santa Cruz lighthouse extending all the way across to Monterey's Point Pinos Lighthouse. The Monterey Canyon is one of the largest underwater canyons in the world and extremely deep at around 12,700 feet. It also hosts some of the most diverse sea life to be found anywhere in the world.

Browse souvenir shops in old Monterey, on Fisherman’s Wharf, and along Cannery Row. Taste test for the best clam chowder at the many seafood restaurants dotting the length of the wharf. Visit ancient adobes that once housed the state’s government affairs. Or just stroll for miles along the shoreline. Take a whale-watching cruise and marvel at the size and grace of giant blue whales and California gray whales making their annual migration. If you're lucky you might even see a pod of pacifc white sided dolphins or even an Orca. f

Steamer Lane and Point Pinos Lighthouses.

Carmel

Home to the renowned 17-mile Drive and Pebble Beach golf course, Carmel is an art lover’s paradise. The hub of this tiny beachside community, Ocean Street, is lined with galleries showcasing recognized artists’ inspiration from oil paintings to photography to metal and glass sculptures.

Browse downtown boutiques, dine in quaint bistros, and stroll Carmel’s idiosyncratic but pricey neighborhoods. If you look carefully, you’ll notice that there are no address numbers for home mail delivery. This tight-knit community believes in getting to know its neighbors. On any given day, the post office is teeming with locals catching up on the day’s events while collecting their mail.

A journey on Carmel’s celebrated 17-mile Drive takes you along California’s coastline of magnificent estates and four top-ranked golf courses: Del Monte, Spanish Bay, Spyglass Hill, and Pebble Beach.

Carmel is a contendor for being one of the most beautiful ocean-side towns in the world. With it's golden sand, aquamarine water, classic cyprus trees bent by the will of the wind, this lavishly beautiful beach town fulfills most world traveler's dreams. f

Half Moon Bay

One hour north of Santa Cruz on Highway 1 is Half Moon Bay, a long stretch of a town roughly 20 miles south of San Francisco. Known for its infamous big wave spot, Mavericks, the annual pumpkin festival and it's fine array of ocean cuisine, it is definetly worth a day trip as there are many other beautiful litle beaches towns no mater which way you drive.

On the way, witness enormous elephant seals at Ano Nuevo State Reserve. Visit Moss Beach Distillery. This cliff-top restaurant was a speakeasy during Prohibition and is rumored to be haunted. The ghost of “The Blue Lady” reportedly still wanders the premises. If you enjoy mixing golf with scenery, try the Half Moon Bay Golf Links’ two championship courses that overlook the Pacific Ocean.

When planning that once-in-a-lifetime experience for your honeymoon, come to California’s Central Coast with its beaches, mountains, redwoods, food, and fun. Whether you spend your honeymoon getting to know one special place or you enjoy them all, the Central Coast provides an unforgettable and romantic experience. f

For lodging and activities information: www.coastalwedding.com

Nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California, lies a hidden gem of a restaurant and hotel that offers an unforgettable experience to its guests. With its charming ambiance and exceptional service, this classic restaurant and wedding venue along with the Santa Cruz hotel is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle of everyday life or have a most memorable wedding or event with the beauty that surrounds the Back Nine.

One of the standout features of this location is the amazing onsite restaurant and bar. The restaurant offers a diverse menu of mouth-watering dishes that are crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. At the Back Nine they can customize your wedding or event menu.

In addition to its outstanding food and drink offerings, this hotel also serves as a stunning wedding and special events venue. With its beautiful garden, stunning flower filled gardens, and warm and welcoming staff, it's no wonder why so many couples choose to tie the knot here. The hotel offers a range of wedding packages to suit every

budget and style, and they are always willing to go the extra mile to make sure their clients' big day is perfect.

But it's not just weddings that this hotel excels at hosting. They also have experience hosting corporate events, family reunions, and other special occasions. Featuring a large banquet space they can accommodate groups of all sizes.

And let's not forget about the food! The hotel's catering team is top-notch, and they can create custom menus to suit any event. Whether you're looking for a casual buffet or an elegant plated dinner, they will work with you to create a menu that perfectly complements your event.

Of course, you don't have to be hosting an event to enjoy all that this hotel has to offer. Locals and visitors alike flock to the onsite bar and grill for some of the best food in town. And when it's time to turn in for the night, the hotel's comfortable and cozy rooms are the perfect retreat. Each room is tastefully decorated and features all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including pastries and coffee in the lobby each morning, complimentary parking, high-speed internet, and a heated outdoor pool. And with a variety of room types available, including suites with separate living areas, you can choose the perfect accommodations to suit your needs.

Overall, this classic Santa Cruz hotel is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best that this beautiful city has to offer. Whether you're looking for a great meal, a stunning wedding venue, or a comfortable and welcoming place to stay, you won't find a better option than this hotel and the Back Nine. So why wait? Book your event today!

Your Wedding is When You Need a Professional Photographer!

When it comes to wedding photos, you can’t go wrong with a little extra time and thought, because there’s no such thing as a do-over. Choosing the right person for the job makes all the difference in getting that collection of photos you’ll treasure forever.

When your special day rolls around, a professional photographer will have the skill and artistry in capturing those beautiful candid moments as well as the more formal portraits. Here are some traits to look for during your search that signal you’re in good hands.

1. A portfolio you love. Your venue may have a list of “preferred professionals” to choose from, but don’t feel obligated to stick with their list. Feel free to explore your options, and browse local guides and websites for the ones that have strong portfolios that speak to you. As you look, pay attention to mood, style and facial expressions. Skilled photographers should have a strong and varied wedding day collection.

2. They help you think through the day. A good listener who takes a genuine interest in your plans - and makes sure you feel elated with their work - is always a good sign. Things like venue, lighting, time of day, the number of people you want to capture, number of settings and the itinerary are just a few factors they need to consider to plan and organize the shoot. If you’re not sure about something,

ask their opinion. A professional will give you an honest assessment along with lots of suggestions so you enjoy your special day and capture those priceless images.

3. Something just clicks. And it’s not just the shutter. Bad puns aside, keep in mind you’re going to be spending the day with your photographer. In fact, you could very well be spending more time with the photographer than anyone else - even with your beloved. Don’t skip the in-person, face-to-face meeting when planning your special day. You want to be sure this is someone who makes you both feel open and relaxed, so trust your gut feeling.

4. They’re the complete package. A professional will complete the time-consuming (and sometimes overwhelming) task of sorting through hundreds of shots for you and put their skills to work in editing the images. What you should get is a collection of hand-picked images, all perfectly edited and cropped so they capture the best moments of the day.

The one bearing the camera has a great responsibility: They are recording the first pages of history for your new family. To make sure you find the one that has the experience and the flair the day calls for, a professional photographer is always the right call. f

Steam Train to Cathedral Grove

Take your guests on a round-trip, exclusive-use, 100-year-old steamtrain ride through the forest to exchange vows in a fairy ring of Redwoods formed by three generations of trees growing together in a perfect circle. Standing ceremony with 10 available seats. Includes train tickets (up to 175 maximum) and ceremony rehearsal. Steam Train Wedding Ceremony & Barn Reception – $14,000.

Schoolhouse Lawn

Exchange vows on our beautiful, expansive lawn nestled next to a vintage schoolhouse under the shade of oak trees. Price includes white ceremony chairs and ceremony rehearsal. Schoolhouse Lawn Wedding Ceremony& Barn Reception – $12,000.

The Barn

Walk down the aisle inside our rustic Redwood barn. Guests will love the warm atmosphere with ceremony stage spotlights, wroughtiron chandeliers, twinkle lights and ceremony rehearsal. Barn Wedding Ceremony & Barn Reception – $10,000.

Ceremony Packages Include: One-Hour Day-Before Rehearsal, Wedding-Day Use of Bridal Schoolhouse, and Day of Ceremony Coordination.

Barn Reception

Dine and dance the night away in our beautiful 6,120 square-foot rustic barn complete with wrought-iron chandeliers hanging from the massive 32 foot ceiling. Twinkle lights and uplights inside and outside the barn change to fit every moment of the evening. Massive barn doors slide open, welcoming guests onto the adjacent lawn for games and seating around the fire barrel.

• Spotlights on Buffet, Side and Bridal Party Tables

• Basic Facility Coordination, Dining Tables, Side Tables, Wine-Barrel Buffet, Service Tables, Roaring Camp Fruitwood Chairs, Site Usage for 8 Consecutive Hours (including set-up, function and pack-up time)

• Lawn Area Next to the Barn Features Bench Seating, Vintage Fire Barrel, Corn Hole Games, Wine Barrel Cocktail Tables and Propane Heaters

• Two tickets to Roaring Camp’s Annual Wedding Showcase & Tasting

Additional: Roaring Camp Catering: 100 guest minimum on Saturdays, 80 guest minimum on Sundays. Professional licensed outside caterers allowed with approval.

Coordinator: Heather Troy – heather@roaringcamp.com. P.O. Box G1, Felton, CA 95018. Roaring Camp Railroads 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA 95018. Instagram: @roaringcampwed

Testimonial:

“Roaring Camp Railroads is an amazing and unique venue. Both the reception hall and ceremony sites are beautiful, well-kept, and a visit to the site will show you just that ... Everything went incredibly smooth thanks to Heather’s preset plans. Many of our guests told us that it was the best wedding they had ever been to. We couldn’t be happier with the result” – Trillium

& Connor

A Romantic Journey into History

Roaring Camp Railroads is a vintage train-depot camp nestled in one of the most stunning valleys of old-growth Redwoods in the coastal Santa Cruz Mountains. Your guests will travel across our covered bridge to be transported back to a time when trains ran on steam and people gathered and celebrated around a campfire under the stars. Let us make your special day truly magical. All Aboard!

2024 Weddings

@roaringcampwed roaringcamp.com/weddings

Favors That Say Forever

The tradition of giving wedding favors dates back to Europe in the 16th century, when aristocrats and nobleman offered gifts of perfume and pastries to guests that had often traveled for days or weeks to attend a wedding.

The tradition still holds, and more married couples than not hand out favors at their wedding to serve as thank-you tokens to their guests and to provide a memory of the celebration.

Your favors can be as simple or elaborate as you like and the favors you choose will depend in part on the budget you allocate for them. Generally, most couples spend between $2 to $3 per wedding favor, but there’s no hard and fast rule to how much you should spend. Once you’ve got your budget down, choose the type of wedding party favors you’d like to give out. If you are on a time limit, ordering personalized favors can be the easiest path to go.

Eco-friendly wedding favors are becoming very popular. They promote sustainability by reducing waste and minimizing the impact on the environment. By choosing this option, you can create a lasting impact and inspire others to embrace a more ecofriendly lifestyle.

Donation in Lieu of Favors: A popular trend is to donate an amount in your guest’s name to a charitable organization that is close to your heart. A nice way to do this is by leaving a cute note at each guest’s place setting with details of the organization that the donation is supporting, and a few words on how the money will be put to good use. Don’t forget to have it printed on recycled paper!

Homemade Soap Bars: There are many recipes out there for you to choose from depending on what type of scent you would like your guests to enjoy. Another fun one is homemade scented candles. It is an easy afternoon project for the bridal party!

Small Plants or Succulents Planted in Mason Jars: These are so cute and your guests will enjoy thinking about the wedding couple every time they look at it. When it gets too big, reuse the jar! If you have a love of nature, wildflower seed packets area popular, as are donations to your favorite nature conservation organization.

Fall Weather can be Chilly: Have mini blankets embroidered with your names and wrap them up for your guests to use if needed. You can also do this with pashminas. Your guests will thank you for the warm gift!

Homemade: Jam, jelly, pickles, honey, etc. Anything you and your partner make will be enjoyed by your guests, they will be ecstatic to take home something that was made with love and is edible!

These are just a few of the many ideas that are out there for favors. If you are not a DIYer, there are many great favors out there to be ordered and personalized.

Whether it be DYI or ordered in advance, give your guests something they can take home with their wonderful memories of your wedding! f

So You're the Maid of Honor – What Now?

You’ve been assigned the Maid of Honor role by a very special bride in your life…and as excited as you are you may be a little freaked out. What are your responsibilities? Well, as Maid of Honor you will be the right-hand woman, confidant, and fearless leader of the bridal party! While every wedding will vary based on the needs of the bride, there are several tasks that are unanimous no matter the type of event.

It’s important to discuss specific Maid of Honor duties before the wedding, while it’s an exciting recognition, the work associated with this role starts long before the big day.

Bridal Party Check-In

Once the bridal party has been established its important for the MOH to check-in. A group text seems to be the easiest line of communication these days. Everyone can get a taste of who is who before any wedding activities begin. If the bride is wanting extravagant pre-wedding festivities, it’s a good idea to check in with each bridal party member privately, to discuss what they can afford before planning the bachelorette party or bridal shower.

Wedding Dress Shopping

Arguably one of the most anticipated events aside from actually walking down the aisle, is wedding dress shopping. As the MOH it’s your job to help the bride say “yes” to the dress. Collaborate with as much inspiration before dress shopping so you have an idea of the bride’s style.

Stay on Top of Important Tasks

Create a timeline that details your tasks and stay on top of them.

Serve as the point of contact

Make sure the bridesmaids know that you will handle issues that come up.

Mediate Conflict Among the Bridal Party

Get in the middle of disagreements and dig deep to find a solution.

Plan the Bridal Shower and Bachelorette Party

This can be very fun but also costly. Plan a budget and style that makes the bride happy and fits within the budget.

Keep Track of Gifts Received

Create a method of contact between you and the bride and have her message you every time a gift arrives so you can keep a running list.

Day of – Maid of Honor Duties

Provide Emotional Support

There is a lot of stress floating around on the big day, stay positive and happy and enjoy each moment, laugh off the blunders no one will remember them!

Be on Drink Patrol

If the bridesmaids plan on drinking bubbly while getting ready, it’s the Maid of Honors’ duty to ensure everyone enjoys the moment but doesn’t overindulge prior to the wedding starting.

Assist the Mother of the Bride

Lending a hand to the mother of the bride with her hair, makeup, water, snacks, and sips of champagne will be much appreciated..

Keep the Couple Separated Before the Ceremony

Help the bride out by keeping an eye out for their partner, you can also keep in communication with the best man to assist with this.

Help the Bride Get Dressed

After hair and makeup are complete, make sure her undergarments, jewelry, stockings, hair pieces etc. are all ready and in order. Getting into a wedding dress can be no small task because it’s probably the most expensive and elaborate gown the bride will ever be in.

Take Care of the Bouquet

Make sure the bouquets remain fresh by having vases to place them in with water until the time arrives to walk down the aisle.

Prepare a Wedding Day Emergency Kit

Do this at least two weeks in advance of the wedding. This will prevent last minute run arounds.

Lend a Hand with DIY Projects

Whether its favors or flowers schedule a day with the Bride and Bridesmaids for the DIY

Prepare a Speech for the Reception

Write your speech a month in advance and practice, practice, practice for a seamless speech!

Help with Playlists

(see pages 9 and 15)

You may think creating a playlist is an easy task for the bride, but none-the-less it’s a task on the to-do-list. Make a fun girl’s night-in where you blast some tunes, drink wine, and de-stress.

Being the Maid of Honor is a big job. If you jump into it full force, it will run smoothly and make for a great wedding day! f

Honeymoon Road Trip!

Don’t have the time or money for a lengthy honeymoon? Want to ensure your honeymoon is just the two of you and not a crowded resort or hotel? Get on Highway One (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) and start driving! What better way to spend time together than on a road trip!

The stretch of Highway One between Santa Cruz and Big Sur is one of the most beautiful in the world. As you travel the first leg of your trip, enjoy the beautiful agricultural fields. Be proud that you are in one of the richest ag areas in our country. Lettuce, artichokes, berries, and many more vegetables and fruits are grown right here on the central coast. Hungry? Stop in Castroville, The Artichoke Capital of the World, and have some french fried artichokes.

of it all. If you’re adventurous, instead of a hotel try some camping. Or glamping as it’s called when you’re not really roughing it! There are several places that offer treehouses, yurts, even beds built into the trees that stretch out above the beach.

Yearning for the city? Go north! Highway One curves up the California coast with some of the most beautiful views in the world. San Francisco is the prize at the end of the trip with all that it offers visitors. On the way up the coast, you can check out the kite boarders with their colorful sails dotting the sky. Stop in Davenport for some breakfast then go across the highway to take in the ocean air and maybe spot a few whales! Up ahead is Pescadero. A hidden gem, all you do is take a right, drive for a mile or so and Pescadero is hidden among the mountains. Take a stroll down their main street, check out the local artisan shops, and stop in Duatre’s Tavern, a landmark that has been there since 1894.

Monterey, California’s first Capitol, and immortalized in John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row, is a good first stop. Spend a night (or two) and visit Fisherman’s Wharf, taste test some Clam Chowder, and then sit down for some sumptuous seafood. Get up close and personal with sea creatures of all shapes and sizes at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Stroll Cannery Row, rich with history, and visit the many wine tasting rooms. Kayaking, whale watching, scuba diving, there are many activities to enjoy in the beautiful area.

Once you’ve gotten back on the road, stop and spend some time in beautiful Carmel. Home to the renowned 17-mile Drive and Pebble Beach golf course, Carmel is an art lover’s paradise. This tiny beachside community offers galleries specializing in paintings, photography, and metal and glass sculptures. Browse the downtown boutiques, dine in quaint bistros, and take a stroll on the magnificent beaches. Visit Roy’s at Spanish Bay for a cocktail at sunset when the Scottish Bagpiper comes strolling over the golf course.

Big Sur is a definite destination on this trip. Endless miles of hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and activities like horseback riding, whale watching, and wine tasting abound. Spend some quality time in Big Sur. Why rush? Take a leisurely three or four days and enjoy the beauty

Half Moon Bay is definitely a two day stop. Golfing, horseback riding on the beach, kayaking, there is something to do for everyone. The ultimate romantic destination, Half Moon Bay is host to tons of wildlife, including dolphins, whales, and a variety of bird species. Spectacular sunsets, misty mornings, and many delicious restaurants and patio-side views are just moments away. If the time is right, you can also catch surfers from around the world paddling out at Mavericks – one the most challenging big waves in the world, where it’s not uncommon to witness pros risking their lives to ride 50-foot waves.

Your last destination before the city is Pacifica. A six-mile stretch along the coast, Pacifica is well known regionally as a popular surfing destination. Surfers and families often visit Linda Mar Beach. Rockaway Beach is a scenic location and offers recreation, shopping, and dining. If fishing is your thing, visit Pacifica Pier and try for a striped bass or salmon. Pacifica is also a popular place to hike, with many trails that wind along the beaches and bluffs.

Whether you go north or south, honeymooning on the coast means you will never run out of things to do and will always have the ocean at your feet. Enjoy! f

A Wedding Cake That Reflects the Couple

Over time many things have changed with weddings, but one thing that has stayed the same is the cake is always the centerpiece of a dessert table. The cake is a big part of the wedding, and something everyone remembers. This is the first sweet you and your husband will share once you’re married. With a little planning and plenty of tasting, your wedding cake will taste as good as it looks.

The wedding cake is usually the centerpiece of your reception, and it should fit in with your wedding ‘theme’. Incorporate your wedding colors into the cake with fresh or sugar flowers. Roses are always popular, but think outside the box, and consider show-stopper such as orchids, hydrangeas and stargazer lilies. Imagine your reception site and take your cues from your surroundings.

Flowers aren’t your only options for color. All white cakes can be accented with ribbons circling each tier. Real or made of fondant, these give the cake a clean, finished look. For a bit of whimsy use a fun dot or swirl pattern to adorn the sides.

As for the top tier, forget the bride and groom and go for something more personal. Your grandmother’s china teacup filled with flowers would make a great topper, or perhaps a preview of the honeymoon to Paris with a mini Eiffel Tower. Stay with one or two great ideas and your cake will be a standout. Customize your cake and it will become an edible expression of your love.

The flavor may be the best part about a wedding cake. Visiting bakeries and sampling their cakes will be a delicious detail to savor. Taste your favorites and dare to try something new. Fresh fruit fillings such as strawberries and raspberries pair nicely with whipped cream and chiffon cake for a summer wedding.

If you met your sweetheart in line for your daily latte, carry the coffee theme into your cake. Try a moist chocolate cake brushed with Kahlua, and a rich mocha cream cheese filling. For something tangy, go for a tart lemon curd paired with lemon butter crème and light chiffon cake. Mix and match flavors until you get the combination that you love.

Once you have decided your cake flavors, the frosting is your final choice. Be sure to sample these when you are at the bakery and try them with your cake choice. If a very clean and streamlined look is what you want, fondant is a great way to get it. Fondant is a sweet icing made of sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin that is rolled out and draped over the cake. Because fondant is hard to work with, price per slice goes up.

An alternative that has a similar look is butter cream. It is a soft icing that can be easily colored and flavored. Butter cream is used to create piping details such as dots and borders.

For a really dramatic look, or for a groom’s cake, consider poured chocolate ganache. With a shiny, rich, dark brown finish, it is a creative alternative to white.

Shop around, and then once you decide get it all in writing. Be sure to have all the details specified in your contract to include delivery time and fee, tier shape and sizes, specific flavors, flower types and decorations.

Whatever cake you choose, your wedding cake will be a sweet addition your special day. f

Cake by Sugar Bakery

Signature Cocktails & Mocktails

Have the Cocktail hour of your dreams

Cocktail hour is the time for guests to mingle, spend time together and sip your signature drinks while the happy couple is soaking in a few minutes of marital bliss and possibly taking photos. One of our favorite ways to personalize cocktail hour without the bride and grooms presence is with signature cocktails. These drinks are a way to tell your guests a little bit more about you and who you are as a couple. Creative signage and a few hors d’oeuvres is always a plus!

Top Ten wedding cocktails and a few that can be easily made into mocktails:

1. Whiskey Sour

2. Lychee Martini

3. Spicy Cucumber Margarita

(can be a mocktail)

4. Chamomile Gin Fizz

5. Hibiscus Margarita (can be a mocktail)

Blueberry Mojito

(can be a mocktail)

Blackberry Bourbon Smash

6. Manhattan

7. Aperol Spritz

8. Cranberry Mule (can be a mocktail)

Complement Your Wedding Dress With Your Hairstyle

For any girl her wedding day will be one of the most important days of her life. A day this big will take months of careful planning!

One of the meaningful aspects of a wedding is that the bride looks her best and stands out from everyone else. As a bride you will naturally want everything to be perfect and to have this happen you will need to spend many hours making sure everything is planned just right!

The wedding dress is, without a doubt, the most important item of clothing a woman will ever wear. The dress is so important it can take brides months to find the perfect one. Remember, to pay attention to the finishing touch: The perfect hairstyle! The ideal wedding hairstyle must be something that compliments the dress while also making the bride look and feel her best.

When choosing your wedding hairstyle make sure to remember that time is very important, as well as trying out a variety of styles. You absolutely must meet with your hairdresser and have the hairstyle done on your hair before the actual event, to ensure that it makes you look as stunning as you should on your big day! You can look in magazines like ours for inspiration!

The savvy bride to be understands hairstylists will often charge a small fee to spend some time discussing what would suit you best. Make sure to listen to the stylist and ask lots of questions, you want to ensure that your wedding day isn’t ruined by too much sticky hair spray or a frizzy style that simply does not work!

If you have already chosen your wedding hairstyle then it is always worth having a look around to see if there are any additions or accessories that will compliment it. Remember to keep an open mind since there are so many accessories available that will make a subtle but incredible enhancement.

It is very important to remember that the length of your hair could limit the wedding hairstyles available to you. However, if you absolutely fall in love with a hairstyle but your hair is too short, don’t stress! You can always add length to your hair by putting in extensions for your special day. This can be costly but is almost always worthwhile for the bride who needs to add a little length to achieve her dream hairstyle.

Always try at least a couple of different styles before you decide on the final one. Many brides end up choosing a hairstyle they would never have thought of. It is very important for the bride-to-be to keep an open mind. Sometimes a bride will see a style she likes on someone else, however once she tries it on herself it simply does not work. Remember that a style that you did not like when you first saw it could end up looking fantastic on you! It is always worth it for the bride to keep an open mind. Remember the style must suit your face and compliment your dress!

Keep your hairstyle, a surprise will only leave your husband in awe as he watches his beautiful bride walking down the aisle and sees the full effect of your hairstyle and dress for the first time. f

Vogue Vibes

Design your attire to match your venue

Timely Trends

Get in tune with this year's sophisticated trends

Cool Fashion

Ring bearer and flower girl

GQ Style

Sauve flair in men's style

A Real Wedding of High School Sweethearts

Two high school sweethearts got married Aug. 25 at Nicholson Vineyards Winery in Aptos.

Ben Dorfman, the 2015 Santa Cruz Sentinel athlete of the year for his dominance in basketball and volleyball at Aptos High, wed Maurea Richmond, a swimming star and the 2014 Aptos High homecoming queen.

Parents: Mark Dorfman and Tracie White; Aitu Richmond and the late Bruce Richmond.

Photographer: Jojo Legnitto • Florist: The Flower Shack

Ben has a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies from UC Santa Cruz and a master’s degree in international environmental policy with a focus in ocean and coastal resource management from Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. He is completing his Sea Grant Fellowship with the Ocean Protection Council.

Maurea has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. She is a CPA at KPMG, a big four accounting firm. The newlyweds currently reside in San Francisco. f

Beach Wedding Mood Board

Band or DJ –

Which is Best for Us?

You’re planning your wedding and you’ve gotten to the part where you choose the music. Band or DJ? Both have benefits, so how do you decide which one is right for you? Let’s look at the pros and cons.

DJs are typically less expensive than a band because you only pay for one person. Prices vary depending on equipment requests and whether it’s a weekday or weekend. For a smaller wedding, a DJ can work because a smaller wedding means a smaller venue, which is better because DJs don’t require much space. DJs usually have a more diverse range of music they can play. This can be great if you want a mix of music at your wedding or are unsure what type of music you want to be played. A DJ will sit down with you beforehand and help you choose what you want and what you do not want.

There are many factors to consider when hiring a band. The number of musicians, the length of time you want them to perform, the day of the week and the season all impact pricing. Bands can be more expensive because you pay for each band member. Bands take up more space than DJs because you need room for all the musicians. If you want a specific type of music played at your wedding (e.g., classical, jazz, rock, a specific decade, etc.) a band is probably a better choice.

Whether you choose a band or a DJ, it is essential to communicate your music preferences to them. This way, they can play the songs that you and your guests will enjoy. Give them your likes and dislikes regarding music choices, and even more importantly, a do NOT playlist. Don’t just ask you favorite band to play at your wedding. Bands that play exclusively at weddings know the drill. They know when and how to introduce the wedding party, bride and groom, the first dances, cake cutting, etc. Before you make your final decision, it’s a good idea to research local bands and DJs. Read reviews, listen to their music, go see them play live and see if they will be a good fit at your reception. f

Paradise Gardens the Perfect Outdoor Venue

Paradise Gardens is a sustainable venue that strives to use recycled materials from the forest industry and job sites to create breathtaking experiences that taps into all your senses. Protecting and honoring the earth is one of the venue's core values.

The craftsmanship of the venue is jaw dropping how it has been built into the natural landscape to transport guests into a little piece of paradise tucked between the mountains and ocean.

When you enter the gates of Paradise Gardens your eyes are immediately drawn in and  upward to the different levels of landscaping and unique structures that blend effortlessly throughout the 3 acre venue. The unique canvas of decks, small structures, cabanas, nooks, fit pits, outdoor baths and a grand terrace is a dreamland for any event.

"We want every guests' experience here to be truly unforgettable"

Vision:

To create a space for people to come together to celebrate love, create, heal, and express themselves.

Goals:

• To immerse people in the beauty of nature while having the comforts of modern amenities.

• To create an unforgettable experience for everyone who steps through our gates.

Venue includes:

• 3 acres

• Large outdoor kitchen

• Two Stages

• Glamping & overnight accommodations

• Oceanview deck

• Gorgeous landscaping

• Giant projector screen

• Ample parking

• Outdoor bathtubs

• Redwood reception deck

• Pizza oven

• Redwood cathedral tables

• Outdoor lighting

• Day of coordinator

This isn't just a venue, it is a tribute and gift to Buck's father, Namvar Dinyari. Offer 3 different wedding packages for couples to create the wedding of their dreams.

1-3 day venue rental options. Preferred vendor list. Event director will help bring your vision for your wedding day to life. Venue hosts not only weddings but all types of celebrations, retreats, concerts, etc.

Instagram: @Paradisegardens831 events@paradisegardensvenue.com  paradisegardensvenue.com

Mountain Wedding Mood Board

Fall Wedding Mood Board

Wedding Guest Guidelines

 Don’t assume that the couple knows you’re coming to their wedding. Send your RSVP card before the “Reply by” date. Plus, there’s that all-important seating chart to consider you should split your wedding guest list into three parts:  one-third are guests of the bride’s parents, one-third are guests of the groom’s, and the rest are guests of the couple.

 If you are not attending, you are not expected to send a gift but it is thoughtful if you do.

 If you arrive at the ceremony during the procession, wait until the bride has gone down the aisle before entering. Also, don’t watch through the doors at the back because you’ll be in her photos.

 If you are late for the ceremony, walk down an outside aisle and find a seat quickly and quietly.

 A gift of money is always appreciated by a couple as a gift.

 Sending a wedding gift in advance makes it convenient for all.

 It’s wise to give a cash gift to couples that are getting married at a destination because they will have to ship everything back home.

 It doesn’t matter if the dress code requests “casual” attire, jeans, T-shirts, shorts, flipflops, and sneakers are never appropriate to wear as a wedding guest. Show respect for the bride and groom by dressing well. that men show up in a jacket, even when the invitation says casual.

 Many couples that have lived together for a while will not register for gifts. That’s because they already have everything they need. In this case, cash in a wedding card is appropriate.

 Out-of-town guests pay for their own transportation and lodgings. f