You met “the one.” You court. Then on bended knee he asks for your hand in marriage. You say, “Yes.” What a milestone. Reality sets in soon after — all of a sudden you have the biggest day of your life to plan. Here are some tips, advice and romantic memories from couples who already have walked down the aisle. Meet some 425 brides and their grooms.
ZACHARY WOODWARD AND JACQUELYNN REASY
February 2nd, 2008
Photography by Cosa Bella Foto
This couple chose to do a unique update on the classic, formal, church wedding. The bridesmaid’s gowns were untraditional but sophisticated in black, and delicate branches, rose petals, and glowing candle holders replaced the usual flower arrangements at both the church and the reception.
Location Bellevue
Colors black, ivory, blush pink Theme modern elegance
Dress Jasmine Couture
Menu Angus fillet, asparagus, gratin potatoes, Boston Bibb salad
Guests 275
Honeymoon Caribbean
NAMES + FACES
Bride’s side Chuck and Peggy Reasy (father and mother), Jamie Khalili (sister), Jessie Hagen (sister) Groom’s side Victor and Kathleen Woodward (father and mother), Brendan Woodward (brother), Caitlin Woodward (sister) Bridesmaids Jamie Khalili (Maid of Honor), Jessie Hagen, Jessica Ladich, Erin Csonaki, Caitlin Woodward Groomsmen Brendan Woodward (Best Man), Steve Sabourin, Eric Britt, Steven Chattin, Elliot Peterson, Nate Jelovich, Joey Eaton, Andrew VanSkoick, Brian Bauer
Q + A
Origins Woodinville (him) and Sammamish Plateau (her) Professions Owner of Sorella Salon and Spa (her) and project manager of Habitat Bank (him)
How they met Through an acquaintance Falling in love Immeasurable presence… We instinctively knew from the first time we met that we were meant for each other. The proposal Zach flew back from Florida during his minor league baseball season on August 5th, 2007, to surprise Jacquelynn at his aunt and uncle’s rose garden in Magnolia. Zach was waiting for Jacquelynn to come down the path and got down on his knee to propose. We were able to spend 24 hours together before Zach had to fly back to finish his season. The wedding Jacquelynn was able to combine a classical wedding and modern décor with the whimsical accents of winter in Washington. Keeping it unique We wanted everyone to have a good time at our wedding and feel just as important as we did. We thought that the most memorable experience for everyone (including us) would be a big party to celebrate our union together and the people that have supported us throughout our lives. An unforgettable moment Zach: “Our wedding day was a whirlwind. The first time we actually got to think about things and talk candidly to each other was during our first dance. As we were whisked away to the dance floor, I can remember thinking that this was the first dance of the rest of my life with my new bride and the love of my life. Our first dance was the time when everyone was able to get a glimpse of the love and compassion that we shared together.” Their advice Enjoy the moment and remember that this is just a small step in building the rest of your lives together. Don’t get stressed out about the little things. Enjoy each other and the unique perspectives and personality that you’ll bring to your relationship. Throughout the planning process you’ll have different opinions or visions of your wedding. This is a great time to learn how to compromise and love each other for the rest of your lives. Lessons learned Our wedding was such a big success and an incredible celebration of our life together. Our biggest regret would be that it couldn’t have lasted longer! The best part Being in front of our family and friends and sharing with them the celebration of our love. These were the people that molded us and made us who we are and it was exciting for us to include them in the next phase of our lives.
RESOURCE LIST
Photographer Cosa Bella Foto, Seattle
206.251.3097 + cosabellafoto.com
Videographer Cory Bogle Productions, Kenmore
206.242.1858 + bogleproductions.com
Ceremony Site First Presbyterian Church of Bellevue, Bellevue
425.454.3082 + fpcbellevue.org
Reception Venue + Caterer Westin Bellevue, Bellevue
425.638.1000 + starwoodhotels.com
Flowers J. Robbins Florist, Tacoma
253.537.4337 + jrobbinsflorist.com
Cake Crème de la Crème, Renton
425.282.0329 + cakesbycremedelacreme.com
Rings Alvin Goldfarb, Bellevue
425.454.9393 + alvingoldfarbjeweler.com
Dress Amanda’s Bridal Boutique, Redmond
425.883.6491 + amandasbridalboutique.com
Hair + Makeup Sorella Salon and Spa, Redmond
Hair: Peggy Reasy, Andrea Keene, Jennette Mendoza, China Wilson
Make-up: Erin Kantar
425.898.8003 + sorellasalonandspa.com
Music Level One Entertainment, Seattle
206.226.8859 + level1dj.com
Rehearsal Dinner Maggiano’s Little Italy, Bellevue
425.519.6476 + maggianos.com
Wedding Night Accommodations Westin Bellevue, Bellevue
425.638.1000 + starwoodhotels.com
STEPHEN GRIFFITHS AND SOPHIA WILLIAMS
September 16th, 2008
Photography by Azzura Photography
Even though this couple doesn’t call the Eastside home, Newcastle Golf Club was still the perfect location for their Pacific Northwest wedding. With a view of the water, the mountains and the Space Needle, its location provided a fitting tribute to the transatlantic couple, who found romance together in the Seattle area.
Location Newcastle
Colors fuchsia, orange, yellow
Dress Custom by Victoria of Victoria’s Bridal Couture
Theme none
Menu tray-passed hors-d’oeuvres followed by a buffet
Guests 20
Honeymoon Road-trip around the British Isles
NAMES + FACES
Bride’s side Adenike and Jairzinho Williams (mother and brother) Groom’s side Walter, Doreen and Catherine Griffiths (father, mother and sister) Wedding party Katherine Scott, Francis Olopade and Catherine Griffiths
Q + A
Origins Hampshire, U.K., (him) and Nigeria, U.K. (her) Professions College professor (him) and geophysicist (her) How they met At a university in the U.K. Stephen was a post-doctoral researcher in math and Sophia was an undergraduate student in physics. Falling in love We have similar outlooks on life and similar values. Also, our differences complement each other. The proposal At midnight, at the top of the Space Needle. The wedding Sophia’s keen eye for design combined with Stephen’s prowess with computer programming meant we just had to make our own wedding invitations and reception stationery. We also expressed ourselves through the wedding favors. We selected our favorite loose leaf teas and presented them in personalized canisters. The bride’s mother continued the theme by presenting tea presses and tea cups engraved with our names and our wedding date to our guests. We wanted to be married outdoors with a strong Pacific Northwest flavor. The Newcastle Golf Club provided the perfect expansive view over Lake Washington and Seattle, with the Olympics in the background. Making it unique It was more intimate than most, and there were strong personal touches in a lot of the elements. An unforgettable moment About two minutes after the ceremony ended, we had a private moment in which we were both very emotional. Their advice Know what is important to you and what you can live without. Have some flexibility on the finer details. If enlisting the help of family and friends allow plenty of time for things to get done, leave last minute stuff to the professionals. Lessons learned Perhaps we’d have left last minute stuff to the professionals. The best part Being wed (overlooking) Seattle – our city of love – was pretty good. But the best part? I suppose we’ll find out in time.
RESOURCE LIST
Photographer Azzura Photography, Bellevue
425.746.0888 + azzuraphotography.com
Venue + Caterer Newcastle Golf Club, Newcastle
425.793.5566 + newcastlegolf.com
Flowers The bride’s aunt and the groom’s mother did the flowers.
Cake Crème de la Crème, Renton
425.282.0329 + cakesbycremedelacreme.com
Rings Alvin Goldfarb, Bellevue
425.454.9393 + alvingoldfarbjeweler.com
Dress Victoria’s Bridal Couture, Shoreline
206.506.6955
Hair Alexandria Slider of Soul Salon, Seattle
206.441.3308 + soulthesalon.com
Music The Cameo String Quartet
425.485.8380
Rehearsal Dinner Location The Edgewater Hotel, Seattle
206.728.7000 + edgewaterhotel.com
Wedding Night Accommodations The Pan Pacific Hotel, Seattle
206.264.8111 + panpacific.com
Transport British Motor Coach, Seattle
206.283.6600 + bmclimo.com
Officiate Rev. Mary Calhoun
JASON WONG AND IVY LIM
August 2nd, 2008
Photography by Azzura Photography, Bellevue
This couple let their personalities shine with elegant décor capturing the bride’s simple, chic style, and the wedding was sprinkled with humorous moments in a nod to the groom and his family’s fun-loving attitudes.
Location Kirkland
Colors celadon and ivory with brown accents
Dress Maggie Sottero
Theme outdoor summer wedding
Menu chicken saltimbocca, ratatouille and Parmesan risotto and beef tenderloin and crab cakes
Guests 147
Honeymoon Japan and Thailand
NAMES + FACES
Bride’s side Dale Lim (dad) and Ai Yi Li (stepmom), Ting Lim (mom) and Shi Ren Liao (stepdad), Iva Wong, Ida Matias, Isa Lim and John Liao (siblings) Groom’s side Edward and Carol Wong (dad and mom), Brian Wong (brother), Gordon Wong (brother) Matrons of Honor Iva Wong and Ida Matias Best Men Brian Wong and Gordon Wong Flower Girl Amelie Wong Ring Bearer Mitchell Wong
Q+A
Origins Canton, China, and Seattle (her), Kingston, Jamaica (3rd generation), Canada and Seattle (him) Professions Both pharmacists How they met At a holiday party at the Columbia Tower in downtown Seattle. A mutual acquaintance introduced us after he found out that we were both pharmacists. Falling in love Although we were physically attracted to one another from the start, we realized that we also had a lot in common. We enjoy traveling, have similar taste in music and enjoy activities such as snowboarding and hiking. The proposal I proposed to Ivy on Table Mountain high above Cape Town, South Africa. I got down on one knee, and Ivy let out a gasp. To this day, she can’t remember any details of the moment. It was all a blur to her. By the way, she accepted. The wedding Jason wanted a fun wedding reflecting his laid-back nature. I wanted a simple, elegant wedding. Because I was more organized and particular about the details, Jason was agreeable to most decisions. Making it unique A lot of our guests loved the venue because of the scenic backdrop of Lake Washington. They also enjoyed the ceremony, because the officiate told stories of how we met and our courtship. This definitely added a personal touch and made the ceremony more intimate. During the reception Jason’s brother played a video and slideshow that he put together, which included a clip of Jason’s proposal. Unforgettable moments The officiate did an amazing job. One guest told us that he actually stayed awake for the whole ceremony, which was unusual for him. The speeches were the highlight of the day. Jason comes from a fun-loving family and their speeches were hilarious. When it was time for my sisters to give their speeches, I was very touched by their words. After the reception, our guests sent us off on the Woodmark boat. We cruised around Lake Washington and reflected on the day we’d just had. Their advice It’s never too early to start planning, especially when booking during peak season. The last thing you want is to be disappointed when a photographer or venue that you love is already booked. Fortunately for us we were able to get our first choice of vendors. Of course, good organizational skills are a plus, so take advantage of the online wedding websites that keep your information at your fingertips. Although planning a wedding is an overwhelming process, don't lose perspective and remember why the two of you are getting married. One last thing - have fun on the wedding day! Things will happen that were not planned but don't let this affect your day. Lessons learned We would've asked for help a little sooner. My sisters, who were also my matrons of honor, were very supportive and helped tremendously, but there were times when I could’ve delegated tasks and easily decreased my stress load. Also, we decided to take family photos before the ceremony but not all family members were informed. If we were to go through the process again, we would make sure that the family was aware of the schedule so that no one would be left out of the pictures. The best part Being able to share our special day with close friends and family, especially those that we do not see very often. Our guests had a great time and so did we.
RESOURCE LIST
Photographer Azzura Photography, Bellevue
425.746.0888 + azzuraphotography.com
Venue + Caterer Woodmark Hotel, Kirkland
425.822.3700 + thewoodmark.com
Rings Gemini Diamonds, Cape Town, South Africa
Dress A Princess Bride Couture Bridal Salon, Bothell
425.488.5558 + princessbridecouture.com
Hair and Makeup GEM Salon, Kirkland
Hair Kate McCarthy Makeup Kathy Evans
425.822.2990 + salongem.com
Ceremony Music Quartet from Puget Sound Symphony
Reception Music DJ Gerald Cornel of Sound Society DJ Productions
Rehearsal Lunch Top Gun Restaurant, Bellevue
425.641.3386
Wedding Night Accommodations W Hotel, Seattle
206.264.6000 + whotels.com
*Special thanks to Amy Mina who did the flowers and Angelica Cruz who made the cake. They are not only talented designers but also Ivy’s co-workers.
MARC KHALILI AND JAMIE REASY
July 28th, 2007
Photography by Melanie Blair Photography
The grand wedding brought together more than 400 guests, allowing the bride and groom to share their special day with everyone they hold dear. A large Bellevue hotel with clean architecture provided the perfect backdrop for their formal ceremony and reception, which combined elements of American, French and Persian traditions.
Location Bellevue
Colors charcoal, black, ivory
Theme modern, urban formal
Menu filet mignon and salmon
Guests 450
Honeymoon Europe (Paris, Monaco, Rome)
NAMES + FACES
Bride’s side Chuck and Peggy Reasy (father and mother), Jessie Reasy Hagen (sister), Jacquelynn Reasy Woodward (sister) Groom’s side Roya and Ebi Khalili (mother and father), Nooshin Khalili (sister), Reza Khalili (brother) Bridesmaids Jessie Reasy Hagen, Jacquelynn Reasy Woodward, Erin Csonaki Groomsmen Reza Khalili, Ramin Mirzadegan, Farid Samimi
Q + A
Origins Seattle (her) and Tehran, Iran (him) Professions Business owner (her) and director of a commercial contracting company (him) How they met In Nordstrom, shopping. He asked me out. After I walked away from Marc, I called my mom immediately and told her I thought I had just met the man I would marry. Falling in love We were in love at first sight, truly. He was raised in France, and I spoke French. I think that’s how I hooked him! The proposal Marc and I went to Vegas and he took me to this French restaurant called L’Atelier. He waited until exactly three years to the day and time that we met to ask me to marry him. He left during dinner to call my grandparents and parents to tell them that he was about to ask me. He got down on one knee and asked me to do him the honor of becoming his wife. Of course I said yes. The wedding Our wedding was very unusual. Because of Marc's multicultural background we decided to combine a traditional Persian wedding and a tradition Christian wedding. It was a little symbolic that we combined it, as we felt that it was a demonstration of how our relationship had been. As far as compromises, we had traditional Persian food at the rehearsal dinner and then typical, American-style, formal dining at the wedding. The location lent it self to our personal style; urban and modern with clean lines and neutral colors. Keeping it unique Neither of us had ever been to a wedding where both cultures were combined. It was important for us to include American, Persian and French traditions. We also had a large guest list, yet we were very close to each guest, so the joy in the room was abundant. It truly gave way to a highly emotional and loving event. Unforgettable moments There were a couple of moments that stand out for both of us. First, there was a 10 minute period of time where Marc and I waited in a small, side hallway to be announced into the reception. It was there that we talked about the vows that we actually took and got a chance to gather in the surrealism of the day. There was also a moment when the doors to the ceremony were opened and Marc and I locked eyes. We both remember staring at each other as I walked down the aisle and remembered that this stare gave us both a certain calmness for the rest of the ceremony. Their advice Soak in every moment of the day. It passes so quickly and before you know it, the whole event is over, so take time to enjoy each other. As far as planning, we would both say give yourself enough time. A year was perfect for us, as it gave us the time to search out vendors we loved. Lessons learned We would leave right after the wedding for the honeymoon. We decided to leave about a month later and regretted that we didn't leave right away. It was torture to have to wait 30 days to go. The best part Having our immediate family around us. Family is so important to both of us, and combining the two families into one with such ease and love was priceless. It also helps that the two of us love each other so mutually.
RESOURCE LIST
Photographer Melanie Blair Photography, Seattle
206.285.7717 + melanieblair.net
Venue + Caterer Westin Bellevue, Bellevue
425.638.1000 + starwoodhotels.com
Flowers Floressence, Seattle
206.286.7850 + floressencedesign.com
Cake Crème de la Crème, Renton
425.282.0329 + cakesbycremedelacreme.com
Rings Ben Bridge Jewelers, Bellevue
425.454.9227 + benbridge.com
Dress Amanda’s Bridal Boutique, Redmond
425.883.6491 + amandasbridalboutique.com
Hair + Makeup Sorella Salon and Spa, Redmond
425.898.8003 + sorellasalonandspa.com
Music DJ NIMA
Rehearsal Dinner Location Westin Cypress Lounge
Wedding Night Accommodations Westin Wedding Suite
STEVEN WALL AND KAREN VAN BEEK
August 18th, 2007
Photography by Tasha Owen Photography
The bride glowed at this charming and elegant outdoor wedding held at French Creek Estate in Snohomish. Linen-covered tables with white umbrellas dotted a lush green lawn and lanterns lit up the trees as guests danced into the evening under the main tent.
Location Snohomish
Colors ivory, coffee and kiwi
Theme sophisticated country
Menu buffet with salads, poached salmon, roast beef finger sandwiches, roasted vegetables and lots of pies! Dress Romona Keveza
Guests 200
Honeymoon U.S. Virgin Islands
NAMES + FACES
Bride’s side Margie Haselton and Frank Bertollini (mother and stepfather),
Duane and Lydia Van Beek (father and stepmother), Brian and Lori Van Beek (brother and sister-in-law) Groom’s side Ed and Colleen Wall (mother and father), Sharon and Eric Wikstrom (sister and brother-in-law), Carli (daughter), Carson (son) Bridesmaids Teresa Harkins, Apryl Battin, Debbie Huntington and Carli Wall Groomsmen Kent John, Pat Keating and Carson Wall Ring Bearer Richard Van Beek (nephew) Flower Girls Teresa, Linda and Nancy Van Beek (nieces)
Q + A
Origins Renton (her) and Snohomish (him) Professions Fashion designer (her) and landscape architect (him) How they met Originally met while at Washington State University and reconnected at an alumni event in 2003. Falling in love We have similar family values. We have a lot of fun together and like being with each other. The proposal Steve and his children planned a picnic lunch on the banks of a river near North Bend on a late summer day in September. Karen had directions, and when she pulled up, Steve met her with red roses. After lunch Steve got down on one knee and proposed. Everyone hugged and Steve and Karen celebrated with champagne. Then the newly-engaged couple met Steve’s sister and husband for dinner. The wedding Steve let Karen plan the wedding she wanted. He only required that it not be too formal, and they both wanted a casual, fun atmosphere. Karen said her mom was also extremely helpful with all of the planning. Making it unique The ceremony was very personal – we have some talented singers in our family, so my mom, my nephew and Steve’s daughter sang a song. Unforgettable moments Karen: “Walking down the aisle with my dad and having my mom and dad stand up with me. Then seeing Steve, and all of us hugging and seeing his family there. All of the most important people in our lives were together and celebrating with us. At one point during reception, almost everyone was on the dance floor, and it was just this great feeling of togetherness and love.” Their advice Take the time to talk to a few different people for all of the resources that you work with. Don’t rush the process and meet with a few photographers, a few event planners, etc. When you find a good fit, it’s evident, and that will give you the confidence to state your opinions and give you peace of mind that they will do their jobs well. Lessons learned Everyone always says that the day goes too fast, and that is the truth. Karen: “I couldn’t believe it when it was over – I just wanted to keep everyone there a bit longer! The best part The joy of being with the person you love, with all the other people you love there with you.
RESOURCE LIST
Event Coordinator Ethereal Events, Seattle
etherealevents.com + 206.920.2658
Photographer Tasha Owen Photography, Tacoma
tashaowen.com + 253.761.8933
Venue + Caterer French Creek Estate, Lord Hill Farms, Snohomish
lordhillfarms.net + 360.568.1780
Flowers Woodland Flowers, Duvall
woodlandflowers.com + 206.310.8477
Cake Tallant House, Monroe
tallanthouse.com + 360.863.1533
Paper, Menus + Cards French Lil Design, Bend, Ore.
french-lil.com + 541.312.8930
Rings J. Lewis Jewelry, Bellevue
jlewisjewelry.com + 425.455.2204
Dress Belle Bridal, Redondo Beach, Calif.
bellebridal.biz + 310.543.8899
Hair and Makeup Killer Looks, Seattle
killerlooks.com + 206. 448.5599
Music Wave Link DJ, Mill Creek
wavelinkmusic.com + 425.771.1167
Dancing Lessons Take Me Dancing, Seattle
take-me-dancing.com + 206.403.8879
Rentals R&R Party Rentals, Bellevue
rr-partyrentals.com + 425.688.0099
Wedding Officiates A Heavenly Ceremony, Seattle
aheavenlyceremony.com + 206.789.9788
Rehearsal Dinner Location Private home of Colleen and Ed Wall, Snohomish
Wedding Night Accommodations Willows Lodge, Woodinville
willowslodge.com + 877.424.3930
BRIAN MCCONAGHY AND SHIRIN TABRIZI
August 16th, 2008
Photography by Azzura Photography
For this couple, the Novelty Hill Januik Winery in Woodinville with its clean design provided the perfect mix of festive and formal for their outdoor ceremony.
Location Woodinville
Colors pink, gold, cream
Theme modern romance
Dress Monique Lhuillier
Menu pesto halibut, beef tenderloin, free-range chicken
Guests 115
Honeymoon Oahu, Hawaii
NAMES + FACES
Bride’s side Faye and Hamid Tabrizi (mother and father), Kian Tabrizi (brother) Groom’s side Lorraine and Robert McConaghy (mother and father), Jeffrey McConaghy (brother) Bridesmaids Peri Erickson-Brown, Dominique Gross, Debbie Monroe Groomsmen Jeffrey McConaghy, Bryan Werley, Aidan Garver-Hume
Q + A
Origins Tehran, Iran, Los Angeles and Seattle (her) and Watertown, New York, and Kirkland (him) Professions Media specialist in search advertising at Microsoft (her) and associate at BlackRock (him) How they met Through a mutual friend, Peri Erickson-Brown, who later was Shirin’s maid of honor. During a summer barbecue we had a long conversation about the environment and politics and after a number of other summer parties we finally found ourselves on our first date. Falling in love It was many things, but the first time we really spent time together we were both on a mission to adopt a cat. Shirin ended up with Bella and Brian with Mr. Perkins. The proposal “Brian completely surprised me. He went to my parents first, and they happily gave their blessing. Then he surprised me the next night with a candlelit path leading to a series of cards, roses and champagne. Each card contained a memory, moment, or experience we shared. At the end of the path, Brian was there on his knee. After some screaming and tears, I said ‘Of course.’” The wedding It was romantic and sincere; characteristics we both admire in each other. We initially wanted a very small wedding, but after some convincing from our family, we agreed to make it a bigger event. It was not a compromise we regretted. Making it unique What stood out most for us was the enthusiasm with which our families and friends mingled – Persian dance music helps! Also, we were both shocked when there were no major catastrophes. Everyone was telling us to expect at least one, and we saw none. Unforgettable moments When we found out that our ceremony musician, Olivia De La Cruz, wrote a new song just for our ceremony, it was so special, unique and unexpected. Their advice Enjoy it, because you will actually miss it all and wish that it wasn’t over. We stopped many times throughout the day just to enjoy the moment. Also, if you don’t plan to hire a wedding coordinator, at the very least ask a reliable friend to manage all the day of logistics. They can address the stressful situations, allowing you to enjoy the day. Lessons learned We felt like we started early, but we’d recommend planning everything as soon as possible and getting big decisions out of the way. Nothing can make you more stressed than having to fill crucial holes in the weeks leading up to your wedding. The best part Seeing our friends and family come together to celebrate our decision to spend the rest of our lives together. Everyone was so joyful. The night was filled with laughter and love.
RESOURCE LIST
Photographer Azzura Photography, Bellevue
425.746.0888 + azzuraphotography.com
Venue + Caterer Novelty Hill Januik Winery, Woodinville
425.481.5502 + noveltyhillwines.com
Flowers Fena Flowers, Kirkland
425.825.8181 + fenaflowers.com
Cake Morfey’s Cake Shoppe, Seattle
206.283.8557 + morfeyscake.com
Rings E.E. Robbins, Bellevue
425.635.7464 +eerobbins.com
Dress Marcella's La Boutique, Seattle
206.264.0700 + marcellaslaboutique.com
Hair and Makeup Salon Farouche, Redmond
425.883.8899
Music UpTown Productions, Redmond
425.836.5392
Rehearsal Dinner Location Marina Room at the Woodmark Hotel, Kirkland
425.822.3700 + thewoodmark.com
Wedding Night Accommodations Woodmark Hotel, Kirkland
425.822.3700 + thewoodmark.com
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