Wedding Readings - Selection #3

As I have written before, including a sentimental, meaningful reading in your wedding gives the ceremony more depth. Enjoy another offered selection ; the author of this one is anonymous.

Sooner or Later

Sooner or later we begin to understand that love is more than verses on Valentines and romance in the movies. We begin to know that love is here and now, real and true, the most important thing in our lives. For love is the creator of our favorite memories, and the foundation of our fondest dreams. Love is a promise that is always kept, a fortune that can never be spent, a seed that can flourish in even the most unlikely of places. and a radiance that never fades, this mysterious and magical joy, is the greatest treasure of all - one known only by those who love.

Site Inspection - Villa La Brenta

Conducting site inspections is just one of the many perks to wedding planning, and I had the pleasure of joining our Venue Vixen group last weekend for tours and inspections of two properties in beautiful Lake County (Northern California).

We were invited by Villa La Brenta for an overnight stay and indepth discussions with the owner and director of marketing. This is a brand new venue less than 2 hours from downtown Sacramento, but upon arrival, the feel is of a far-away European countryside.

The villa design was inspired by Italian architect Andrea Palladio and is in stunning contrast as it sits amongst acres of wine grapes. The front of the estate is landscaped with lavender and box hedges. On the 'back side," outstanding views abound and one can get lost in thought gazing out at the coastal mountain range and rows of grapes while sitting on one of the terraces or poolside.

Weddings can take place within the vineyard, with poolside wine and socializing, followed by a seated dinner on the terrace, and the night ending with dancing in the gazebo under the stars. Can it get any better?

Headcount for this property is best suited for 75 to 100, although a strolling reception could take more guests. At this time, the villa has two or three rooms for specially arranged overnight accommodations for the bridesmaids (the night before) and for the newlyweds (wedding night) but in the future, plans for expanding are on the drawingboard.

Future posts will provide information on the next property we visited - Ceago Vinegarten on Clear Lake.

Let Them Eat Cake!

And more on the cake subject... (pardon that the photos below were taken with my little digital camera)
I recently attended a wonderful event called Let Them Eat Cake - a delightful Marie Antoinette/French inspired afternoon at Antiquite Maison Privee in mid-town Sacramento. Kristine Smith of Wish Bridal organized the event - wonderful concept!Brides sipped glasses of champagne and walked around the cakes on display and then judged the magnificent, unique designs of several bakeries. The masterpiece above was created by Sugar and Spice Specialty Desserts.
The above is the fun top of the elegant cake by The Sweetest Things bakery.
The elaborate design above was by Village Cake Shoppe... such detail!
The attendees selected this awesome cake created by River City Cake Co. as the winner for overall design concept. Congrats Tanya and staff! The stunning cake on the left was by Sweet Cakes by Rebecca and again, on the right is by Sugar and Spice. I'm sorry that I missed photographing a lovely creation by Shelton's Wedding Cake Designs. Pastry Heaven showcased this fun design.

Each bakery displayed even more beautiful creations at their individual tables, and offered samples to taste. The sweetness in the room was very evident! So yummy. And the guests went crazy over all the small bites and individual desserts that Carissa of Sugar and Spice was offering. I had a huge need to eat French Fries after the event!

Dream Wedding Show Television Commercial

The Dream Wedding Show will be held in Sacramento, CA on February 28, 2010. Footage of one of my beautiful clients was included in a 30 second commercial spot to be aired on cable and the local television stations promoting the upcoming show. Very fun!

Click the link here to view the commercial.

Thanks Ryan, of Heritage Video, for selecting this gorgeous Napa Valley wedding of Sara and Kyle. Not only are you a great wedding videographer, but you do a mighty fine commercial, too!!

A twist to the ceremonial "alter"

Rather than the expected wedding arch to frame the ceremonial alter, consider setting up a simple banquet table (4' or 6') and cover it in a beautiful linen, and then add one stunning floral arrangement. Other items can be added to the table, such as a Unity Candle, vessels for a Sand Ceremony, Honorarium Candle, a Bible, or a chalis for a private communion. This is a simple but impacting design. This wedding was held at Avio Vineyards in Amador County. Having the alter table designed like this did not block the stunning views of the vineyards and distant hillside. Photo by Ryan J. Lane.