Champagne: When and why did you decide you wanted to be a florist?

Zest Floral: I’ve always loved the event world, especially floral and decor. Growing up, my mom used to do flowers, and I’d often help her, which was where I got my first exposure. After graduating from University of Southern California (USC), I worked in PR and would do freelance floral and event design on weekends. I started getting more and more requests, and finally realized I couldn’t juggle the two. I decided to follow my passion and start Zest! That was in January 2010.

Photo by Ashley Forrette Photography

Photo by Ashley Forrette Photography

Champagne: What is the favorite part of your job?

Zest Floral: Watching the look on a bride’s face when she sees her flowers for the first time has got to be my favorite part of my job. There’s nothing more gratifying.

Photo by Beccera Photography

Photo by Beccera Photography

Champagne: In your opinion, what should brides know when looking for a florist?

Zest Floral: I think it’s important to find someone you click with, and someone whose taste and style you completely trust.

I always recommend that brides bring lots of pictures—it is the best way to help convey their vision.

Photo by Ben Pigao

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Champagne: What’s your favorite flower?

Zest Floral: I have lots of what I call “floral crushes”, which are always changing. Right now, I’m loving garden roses for their peony-like romantic softness and high petal count, and their intoxicatingly sweet fragrance. I’m also a sucker for cherry blossoms, gardenias, peonies, dinner plate dahlias, white phalaenopsis orchids….I could go on and on.

Photo by Holland Studios

Champagne: How would you describe your style?

Zest Floral: My style tends to be clean, modern and chic, with a bit of sass and flair. Second to flowers of course, I love fashion, interior design and architecture, which I think play pretty strong roles in my designs.

At Zest, we specialize in couture flowers and décor. Everything we do is custom, artfully styled and well-tailored for each client.

Photo by Jen and Jody Photography

Photo by Jen and Jody Photography

Champagne: Do you believe having a wedding coordinator is a luxury or essential?

Zest Floral: Essential

Photo by Jen and Jody Photography

Champagne: What do you do, when you’re not doing what you do?

Zest Floral: Probably spending time with my wonderful husband, Evan, and our highly-energetic Portuguese water dog, Zoey.

Photo by Mosca Photo

Champagne: Thank you, Hailey [Zest Floral and Event Design], for telling us more about your company!

If you book Zest Floral, tell them that you heard about them on Champagne’s 30 days of vendors and you’ll receive a complimentary toss bouquet!

Head on over and follow them on Twitter, “like” them on facebook,  check out their website and browse their blog!

Happy Weekend!

Cheers,

The Champagne Team

Don’t forget about our blog contest:
This particular contest is for anyone [Brides, Grooms, Vendors, Single, Married…etc] over the age of 18 years! We’ve partnered with Hotel deLuxe to giveaway a one night stay in a King Room at their stunning hotel!! We’ll be sharing more about their gorgeous venue later on in the month!

Here’s how to enter:
1. For each comment you leave on the 30 days of vendor blog posts, you get 1 entry. The more comments you leave, the more entries you get! [Limit 15 entries per person; one comment per post]
2. Spread the word about the 30 days of vendors by posting it on Facebook and tagging Champagne Wedding & Event Coordination and Hotel deLuxe [Limit 1 entry per person via facebook]

At the end of the 30 days, we will be putting each entry into a “hat” and drawing the winner!! Stay tuned for more giveaways and discounts as well!

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Champagne: How did you decide to get into photography?

Gabriel Boone: We grew up in a close knit family - our Grandpa Don, who was always close by, showed us how to use his 35mm all manual SLR from a young age.  Shooting photos was just something we’ve done since we were kids. 

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Champagne: How would you describe your style?

Gabriel Boone: We love to have fun with our clients, pulling out those candid looks and feelings while guiding the rest.  We orchestrate the technical side to make sure you’re in your best light, feel great and look amazing. 

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Champagne: Who/What would be your dream person/event to photograph?

Gabriel Boone: Right now I’m way into the J. Crew and Anthropology look books.  I would love to produce and photograph one of their shoots. 

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Champagne: What’s your favorite part about your job?

Gabriel Boone: Working with amazing people up and down the West coast. 

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Champagne: To you, what is key to creating a successful event?

Gabriel Boone: Flexibility, staying light hearted and focused, plus having hundreds of weddings worth of experience. 

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Champagne: What do you do, when you’re not doing, what you do?

Gabriel Boone: I enjoy taking in Portland with friends, reading Steinbeck, riding my bike and gardening. 

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Champagne: Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

Gabriel Boone: A quote from Thoreau -  “So we saunter toward the Holy Land, till one day the sun shall shine more brightly than ever he has done, shall perchance shine into our minds and hearts, and light up our whole lives with a great awakening light, as warm and serene and golden as on a bank-side in autumn.” 

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Photo by Gabriel Boone

Champagne: Thank you, Boone [Gabriel Boone Photography], for telling us more about your company! Make sure to head on over and follow @gabrielboone and @theboone, “like” them on facebook, visit their website and browse their blog!

Don’t forget about our blog contest:
This particular contest is for anyone [Brides, Grooms, Vendors, Single, Married…etc] over the age of 18 years! We’ve partnered with Hotel deLuxe to giveaway a one night stay in a King Room at their stunning hotel!! We’ll be sharing more about their gorgeous venue later on in the month!

Here’s how to enter:
1. For each comment you leave on the 30 days of vendor blog posts, you get 1 entry. The more comments you leave, the more entries you get! [Limit 15 entries per person; one comment per post]
2. Spread the word about the 30 days of vendors by posting it on Facebook and tagging Champagne Wedding & Event Coordination and Hotel deLuxe [Limit 1 entry per person via facebook]

At the end of the 30 days, we will be putting each entry into a “hat” and drawing the winner!! Stay tuned for more giveaways and discounts as well!

See you tomorrow!

Cheers,
The Champagne Team

Over the next 30 days, we will share with you 30 vendors that we know and love! Oregon is home to so many talented and wonderful vendors! Given that networking is a large part of our job, picking just 30 vendors to share with you is not easy! We will be featuring many more vendors over the next year, but wanted to start out 2012 by continuing our mission to promote professional wedding and event businesses! We are always happy to share vendor suggestions, so please feel free to email if you have any questions through out your planning process! Make sure to go back and browse 2011 and 2010‘s 30 days of vendors as well!

Before we get started with Day 1, we’d like to share a contest with you! This particular contest is for anyone [Brides, Grooms, Vendors, Single, Married…etc] over the age of 18 years! We’ve partnered with Hotel deLuxe to giveaway a one night stay in a King Room at their stunning hotel!! We’ll be sharing more about their gorgeous venue later on in the month!

Here’s how to enter:
1. For each comment you leave on the 30 days of vendor blog posts, you get 1 entry. The more comments you leave, the more entries you get! [Limit 15 entries per person; one comment per post]
2. Spread the word about the 30 days of vendors by posting it on Facebook and tagging Champagne Wedding & Event Coordination and Hotel deLuxe [Limit 1 entry per person via facebook]

At the end of the 30 days, we will be putting each entry into a “hat” and drawing the winner!! Stay tuned for more giveaways and discounts as well!

Let the 30 days begin!!

Maggie’s Buns has joined us for the first day of the blog feature. We’ve had the pleasure of working with Maggie and her team on many occasions and are constantly impressed by her passion and delicious food!! Get to know Maggie’s Buns!

Champagne: How long has Maggie’s Buns been in business?

Maggie’s Buns: 15 years

Paul Rich Studio

Champagne: What is Maggie’s Bun’s specialty?

Maggie’s Buns: We are know for great food at a reasonable cost with lots of color!

Champagne: What venues are you the preferred caterer?

Elk Cove Vineyards
Old Church in Portland
Walter’s Cultural Arts Center
Wine Country Farm
Bella Via

Paul Rich Studio

Champagne: What’s your favorite venue to work at?

Maggie’s Buns: Elk Cove Vineyards- the view is breathtaking! If you haven’t been there, go check it out! It’s perfect for an afternoon of wine tasting, a wedding or event!

Champagne: What do you think someone should look for when hiring a caterer for their wedding or event?

Maggie’s Buns: A caterer that will give them full service treatment throughout the planning and reception.  The caterer should fill the needs and the wishes of the Bride and Groom. They should be somewhat flexible in RSVP’s as these are a lost art and they should be able to offer full service from rentals to OLCC .  Most of all the food should be plentiful and made with creativity and some passion.

Paul Rich Studio

Champagne: Quality or quantity?

Maggie’s Buns: Quantity for sure because you never want to run out, quality equally as important because bad food should never be allowed at a wedding.

Photo by TFK Photography

Champagne: How would you describe your ideal client?

Maggie’s Buns: A person that describes their likes and dislikes at the start, then is willing to listen as the experienced professional guides them toward decisions.  I think a client who is clear in communication and not afraid to voice an opinion is a great client.

Champagne: Do you believe having a wedding coordinator is a luxury or essential?

Maggie’s Buns: I think it is essential for at least the day of event. I think it is a luxury for those on a low budget, but if a bride and groom does not have guidance they could easily spend more than if they had a coordinator.

Photo by TFK Photography

Champagne: What do you do, when you’re not doing, what you do? 

Maggie’s Buns: Exercise.  Search for new ideas. Travel. I love to travel!

Champagne: Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

Maggie’s Buns: I am passionate about what I do, I love the wedding portion of my catering business.  I love to help the Bride and Groom as much as possible so when the day comes they are still excited.  I care about my clients and want them to have a wedding reception full of wonderful memories and of course lots of comments about the great food, service and presentation.

Champagne: Thank you, Maggie [Maggie’s Buns], for telling us more about your company! Make sure to check out their website, “like” them on facebook facebook and make sure to stop by their cafe [2007 21st Avenue Forest Grove, Oregon 97116]

1/21/2012
It’s five days later. Five whole days and it still hasn’t hit me, WE won a dream wedding. If it wasn’t for the flurry of emails and congratulations I think life would have gone back to normal, instead the laundry is piling up as Grant and me find ourselves giddy about color plates and guest lists.

I’ve come to the conclusion (granted, it’s the first thing we’ve had to tackle in all our wedding planning), the ‘guest list’ is the hardest part of the process. We’re truly blessed with wonderful friends and a loving family. People we’ve shared very difficult times with, as well as very happy, special moments - how do you limit the guest list to just a 150?

Okay, confession. I’m addicted to pinterest - which I’m not exactly sure is a good thing. There are too many color ideas and table settings and flowers and cakes and hairstyles and bridesmaid dresses and, and, and… OHMY, I’M GETTING MARRIED! (Babe, what do you think about Grey suits?)

We are meeting with our wedding planner, Rachelle, on Sunday. Is it common to be nervous? Waves of overwhelming joy have me weepy. My eyes fill with tears when I tell people “April 27th” and my lip quivers with I imagine my best friends holding her little girl, or my dad walking me down the aisle. (Yep, tearing just typing.) I hope I don’t cry when during our meeting.

Love,
Chasity

More to come from Chasity and Grant’s 15 weeks of planning!

Cheers,

The Champagne Team

Champagne: What is Stella & Dot? 

Alicia with Stella & Dot: Stella and Dot is a home party based jewelry company.  Jessica Harrin created the company in 2004 as Luxe Jewels. She previously created The Wedding Channel.com before selling it to the knot.com, but after having her first child decided she wanted something that she could work around raising her son.  In 2007 Blythe Harris signed on as the creative director.  Her resume is extensive, as she has previously worked for such design powerhouses as Cartier, De Beers and Banana Republic.  The name Stella and Dot is an ode to their grandmothers who paved their fashionable ways.  The designs are both classic and contemporary.

Champagne: Where have I seen it?

Alicia: Other then seeing it on ladies around town you may have seen it featured in magazines such as Vogue, In Style, Lucy, Marie Claire, Redbook and People.  Leighton Mester has also worn it on the Gossip Girl.  It has also been seen on the red carpet by Ali Fedotsky or on air by Maria Menuonos

Champagne: Where can I buy it?

Alicia: You can purchase it online from your personal stylists website.  The best way however is to purchase the jewelry is from a trunk show where you can see and try on various pieces.  You can never really see the quality of a piece of jewelry until you have it on.

Champagne: What are the prices?

Alicia: Half of the line is under $50.  With Design Studio pieces being the most exclusive and expensive.  There are also wonderful discounts for hostesses so any piece can be within reach. Hostesses can even earn free jewelry!  They make great gifts for bridesmaids, mothers, sisters, and friends or as a treat for you.

Champagne: How does a trunk show work?

Alicia: If someone would like to host a Stella and Dot trunk show an independent stylist consultant will set up a meeting to go over the event.  They are run as more of an open house where people can come and browse over the beautiful baubles and glistening jewels.  The only thing the hostess has to provide are blank tabletops, some drinks and snacks for your guests.  The stylist will provide all of the jewelry and displays.

Champagne: When will I receive my jewelry?

Alicia: Jewelry that is not backordered will be shipped and delivered between 3 and 5 business days in fashionable boxes that have cute messages in them.

Champagne: How often does Stella and Dot release new styles and collections?

Alicia: Stella and Dot has two major collection releases, one for Spring/Summer and one for Fall/Winter.  There is also a small collection that releases around the holidays.  Every month Stella and Dot also release a small collection for the Design Studio.  These pieces are all limited edition and showcase a vintage Chanel reproduction.

Champagne: Does Stella and Dot have any other products besides jewelry?

Alicia: Yes, recently Stella and Dot recently started releasing leather purses.  Like all of the Stella and Dot products they are made of high quality material and made in the same factories as Coach and other high-end purses.  Along with the jewelry and purses, Stella and Dot also has a small collection of totes and accessories for electronics.

Champagne: Thank you, Alicia, for taking the time to tell us more about Stella and Dot! For more information about Stella and Dot, visit their website, follow them on twitter, become a fan on facebook and Alicia to set up a trunk show!

Happy Shopping!

Cheers,

The Champagne Team

Through out the coming weeks, Chasity and Grant have agreed to share with us their experience though this journey. The journey of winning a wedding and having to plan it in just a few short months! Stop by to read Chasity and Grant’s story, watch their finalist video, and read on to find out how the couple is dealing with the shock of winning this dream wedding! Enjoy!

15/14 Weeks Until Wedding… The Gift of A Wedding.

E-mails. E-mails. E-mails. Expect them. They aren’t excessive e-mails, they are sent out of necessity. A free wedding is a blessing, but even gifts need to be unwrapped. E-mails, vendors, address books, vision boards, and meetings are the paper and twine that stand between Chas and I and the beautiful present of “I do.”

I make it sound like a burden. A free wedding is not a burden. A burden would be having to wrap the gift ourselves…

Luckily, the package is wrapped, and now we are just unwrapping it. So, in order to drive this metaphor into the ground, I will explain the last week in terms of opening a gift.

Untie the twine:
I got 3 e-mails within 5 minutes the day after we heard we won the wedding. All three had things we had to do in the next couple days. Things that couldn’t wait. Things that make a wedding in 3 months possible. 1. Get a wedding Dress. (not my problem. dodged this one.) 2. “Pintrest” things you like. (I’m on this! I got this one!) 3. Make a guest list of 75 guest each that will equal 150 total guest. (excuse me…wait…what?)

Read the Card:
Pintrest.com is a gift…and a curse. Rachelle sent us an e-mail asking us to make a “pin board” of things we like for the wedding. Using Pintrest.com one can wonder the internet and mark looks, thoughts, ideas, and pictures that will be an immense help to all those involved in the wedding. Your wedding board is your filter. It is the public announcement of “this will be my wedding and look at how good my taste is.” It also allows your friends to see the direction you’re headed in, so they can talk you off the ledge of going with a Batman and Robin theme (which sounds awesome, but capes bring unforeseen complications). The website and the “boards” are a great way to communicate with everyone involved in your wedding without having to say a word. The coolness of the website is also it’s downfall in the realm of wedding planning.
*confession*
I have not “pinned” one thing for the wedding. I’ve spent a TON of time “pinning” things…the wedding just isn’t tied to any of them. Don’t get me wrong, I started with the best of intentions. I even signed up with the user name “GrantWedding”. 
The problem is that once you sign up for the website you get to see a bunch of OTHER people’s cool boards; boards about all kinds of things.
The Bad: I dropped the ball… The Good: It was a really cool ball, and luckily I found a picture of it on the internet and “pinned” it.

Rip the Tape Off:
I like a whole lot of people. I would even go so far as to say that I LOVE a whole lot of people. But 75 is 75, and not everyone can go to my wedding. This is a problem. I have had 28 years to take an interest in people and have people take an interest in me, but in all that time I haven’t figured out an equation that will fairly select those that deserve to be in the same room as me when I say my vows to my wife.
In the last few days, however, I have come to 3 conclusions that have helped me create a list:
1. The people that really care about me will still be there after the wedding, regardless of whether I invite them or not.
2. Comfort is important. Everyone has those people that are unconnected from everyone else they know. These people may not get invited. I’ve gone to a wedding alone, not knowing anyone. It was fun, but I could also see it being uncomfortable and nerve-wracking. Is there anything worse than coming out the other end of a buffet line and looking for a table to sit at in a room full of people you don’t know?
3. I have the rest of my life to make it up to people that I don’t invite. They will have to move, pull weeds, or wash their cars at some point, and when those things happen I will be there. Call it my wedded penance.

Week 1 done, on to week 2 of 15,
Chasity & Grant

The amazing Vendors involved: [For more information about the services these vendors will be providing visit: The Abernethy Center Giveaway]
The Abernethy Center
Champagne Wedding & Event Coordination
Event Team Entertainment
Holland Studios
Focal Point Digital Media
Joe Kassab Jewelers
AniA Collection
The Candy Buffet
Rose’s Equipment
Echo Music NW
Limelight Photo Booth
Portland City Grill
The Stephanie Inn
Forte Floral Artistry
Magnifique Boutique
Alesia Zorn Calligraphy and More
Wrightberry Wedding Cakes
Element of Style Salon and More
Powder Inc
The Wedding Cottage
Men’s Wearhouse
Hotel DeLuxe
Best Car in Town
Carroll Myers, Pastor
Paper Bloom Studio
Avery’s Chair Covers
Oxford Suites
Wynter Ice Sculptures
Carousel Dry Cleaners
Minuteman Press
Le Cookie Monkey

We are so excited to go along on this journey with you, Chasity and Grant!

Cheers,

The Champagne Team

Style Unveiled - Halloween at Lolich Farms

Style Unveiled - Halloween

Style Unveiled - Halloween at Lolich Farms

Style Unveiled - Vintage Rentals

Honeysuckle Photography - Melissa & Baird’s Wedding at World Forestry Center

Style Me Pretty - Mandi & Darren’s Wedding at Pure Space

Lauren Brooks Photography - Libbi & Aaron’s Wedding at Edgefield McMenamins

Jenny Hill Photography - Dallas & Dusty’s Wedding at Langdon Farms

Style Me Pretty - Wrap it up Pretty

Ruffled Blog - Annie & Evan’s Wedding at Oxbow Park

Best Wedding Sites - Yellow & White Buttons

Jessica Hill Photography - Annie & Evan’s Wedding at Oxbow Park

Evrim Icoz Photography - Jillian & Desi’s Wedding at On Deck Sports Bar

Kimberly Kay Photography - Addie & JJ’s Wedding at Private Residence in Sisters, Oregon

Honeysuckle Photography - Steffi & Devin’s Wedding at Riverview Restaurant

Lauren Brooks Photography - Keri & Ricky’s Wedding at Oregon Golf Club

Paul Rich Studio - Allison & Erik at Abernethy Center

Bow Ties & Bliss - Yellow & White Buttons Inspiration at Paragon Restaurant

Postcard and Pretties - Inspiration

Style Unveiled - Katie and Michael’s Wedding at Private Residence in Molalla, Oregon

Engaged and Inspired - Inspiration

Style Unveiled - Yellow & White Buttons—This photo shoot was featured three or more times! at Paragon Restaurant

Elizabeth Anne Designs - Yellow & Teal inspiration at Youngberg Hill Vineyard

Central Oregon Weddings

Junebug Weddings - Jen & Nick’s Wedding at Surfsand Resort

http://www.emilygphotography.com/blog/2011/05/13/pretty-all-around/” title=“Emily G Photography”>Emily G Photography - Inspiration shoot

Oregon Home Magazine

AniA Collection Vendor Spotlight

Alt Blu Vendor Spotlight

Atelier Pictures Bella Via Inspiration

Focal Point Digital Media - Megan & David’s Wedding

Misha Ashton Photography - Jayne & Armando’s Wedding at Vista Hills Winery

This is Luminous Vendor Spotlight

One Candle Power - Inspiration

Paul Rich Studio - MAC Event

Bow Ties & Bliss - Inspiration at Bella Via

Style Unveiled - Geometric Inspiration

You can also see our work in Portland Bride and Groom’s Winter/Spring 2012 issue!

While looking up all the features we found this one from 2010! We were featured on Style Unveiled talking about Why to Hire a Coordinator. 

Style Unveiled - Informational

We are looking forward to the amazing year ahead! We look forward to working with you to make sure that your wedding planning process and wedding day is stress- free!

Cheers,

The Champagne Team

A huge thank you to all the talented vendors involved!
Venue: Domaine Margelle
Caterer: Hunt and Gather Catering
Bakery: Lamb’s Thriftway
Photographer: Kevin Meyers
Entertainment: Pro Djs Oregon
Hair/Make up: Karissa Peterson
Florist: Forte Floral Artistry
Rentals: Barclay Rentals
Dress: Bridal Exclusives

We wish Andrea and Devin a lifetime of love, laughter and happiness!!

Cheers,

Danielle & the Champagne Team

How they met:

While Nate was being interviewed for a job at the local coffee shop, Danielle walked in with her mom for a treat.  Danielle and Nate briefly locked eyes beginning their amazing journey right then and there.  Nate got the job perhaps only after beaming with excitement and impressing the manager with his sudden passion for coffee.  Danielle’s semi regular visit turned into multiple daily stops while Nate and Danielle’s mom began to chat about life, but mostly just laugh.  Then one day they made a plan to have Danielle and Nate officially meet. Finally one day Nate wrote his number down on the sleeve of her favorite coffee flavored caramel drink and things took an odd turn.  You see Nate was a budding barista and frugally didn’t have text messaging turned on.  Danielle, knowing that this was it,  this was the time when they would finally exchange frantic texting bliss, was sadly responded to with a message saying something along the lines of this number is invalid or no longer in service.  And doing what every other twenty something in this situation would do, assumed that Nate wanted nothing to do with her out side of pouring obscene amounts of caramel into her drink, so she delivered an astoundingly cold cold shoulder to Nate the following day.  Nate was obviously thrown off by the no call and even more so by the reaction that Danielle had to his gesture.  After sensing that something was not right Nate, hopped up on espresso decided to question Danielle on her not calling him.  Both were relived and elated to hear that no harm was intended and so began the dating…

How long they’ve been together:
4 years

The day he proposed:
9.15.2011

How he popped the question:

It all began with a little trip to the local jewelry store, Danielle had convinced Nate to do a little innocent shopping…for shiny things. Nate agreed, figured it wouldn’t hurt to see what style she was into, also to figure out her ring size if and when the moment came about. So they spent the typical 15 minutes trying to find a parking spot in downtown Portland, and strolled in to meet angelic voiced Lori who was smitten to see them.  Starting with the 8 carat honkers and moving down to the more reasonable 4 carat budget rings, Nate was thinking “Wow this is a lifelong commitment not only spiritually but financially.” These things were expensive, they looked weird on Danielle’s finger, so luckily Lori got the hint and decided to research a different style, as if knowing exactly what Nate had in mind, she found it. Right then and there Nate knew there was no other ring on this planet that would look any better than the one perfectly fitted on Danielle’s finger. Nate shrugged and mumbled in soft agreement, and they left. Meanwhile Nate can’t sleep with the sound of Lori’s angelic voice in his head and the sight of the ring on Danielle’s finger, and the next day at work decided to pay Lori a little visit. Checkbook in hand he drove down on his lunch and sure enough the parking spot right in front of the door was open, it was meant to be. Elated and sleep deprived he is greeted again by Lori who cannot wait to see his checkbook, signature here, check box there, a little box to go, Nate goes back to work. Just so happened Danielle was going to be in a meeting that day on lunch and when Nate drives home to stash the ring, surprise, Danielle is still home, so he heads back to work and stuffs it in the safe. That night before he leaves someone had decided to shut and lock the safe, so after waiting what seemed like forever the boss hands Nate the code to the safe, this is no ordinary code, thinking back to his freshman days of high school he finally cracked the code and stored the ring in the only place Danielle would not look, the binoculars case. Safe at home the ring kept Nate up, after the third night of getting little sleep, he just couldn’t bare it, he planned a trip to the coast. Luck would have it, the day off he had planned the picnic to the coast with the sunset and meaningful hike wasn’t going to happen. So plan B followed, they grabbed some sushi and pie and decided to go to Mt. Tabor to watch the sunset. White knuckled nervousness took over and the plan to hand Danielle the binoculars to look at the clouds rolling in was politely declined as supposedly binoculars make Danielle dizzy. Nate feeling defeated by his first and second attempt figured he would just get down on one knee and go for it. Apparently by getting down on one knee and holding up a small box signified Danielle to sit down next to him on the bench. A jogger running by noticed simultaneously what was happening and if not promoted by her delightful expression Danielle did as well and said “YES.” The rolling clouds turned out to be the first rain we had seen in 20 days and through the downpour and smell of freshly rained upon earth they embraced all the way to the car.

At what moment did you know he was the one?

The moment I knew he was the one was long before we were together when I saw him at his work and he had just bought “Pat the Bunny” book for his newborn niece, It was such a sweet moment seeing how excited he was to give it to her, I knew he was special.

At what moment did you know she was the one?

When did I know that…I think that was when I figured out that we made an awesome team and were stronger and better people with one another. We shared some pretty deep stuff emotionally when we first met and I think that the total exposure of one another’s past allowed us to grow together and make each of us who we are now. Inseparable.

What are you most excited about on the wedding day?

Nate: seeing her entire childhood fairy tale wedding unfold…maybe the flatiron steak, or the polenta…or her absolutely gorgeous eyes locking with mine as she walks up the aisle to begin the next chapter of our lives together.

Danielle: I am excited about everything! First look, walking down the aisle, being surrounded by family and friends, being married to Nate, and of course the hot chocolate bar!

Thank you so much, Danielle and Nate for sharing your love story with us and giving us just a glimpse inside your relationship as you take the next step together! We can’t wait to see you tie the knot at Pronghorn Golf Club & Resort in Bend, Oregon! Thank you, Byron Roe Photography for sharing the gorgeous photos!!

Cheers,

The Champagne Team

“Nothing purchased can come close to the renewed sense of gratitude for having family and friends.”  Courtland Milloy

Soak up these treasured moments!

Rachelle:

Rachelle and Donny with Hendricks and their dog, Sugar

Left: Happy Hendricks! Right: Rachelle and Donny at Timberline Lodge [Photo by Paul Rich Studio]

1. My beautiful baby boy
2. My loving husband
3. My amazing family
4.  My Girlfriends
5. Health within my family
6. Having a happy home
7. Joy in my life
8. Bountiful food
9. My cuddly pets
10. The fresh air we breath in Oregon!

Mandi:

Left: Darren, Mandi and Bailey at Timberline Right: Mandi’s Family at their wedding [Photo by Yasmin Khajavi Photography]

Mandi’s new extended family [Photo by Yasmin Khajavi Photography]

1. My husband- my best friend and inspiration
2. Our dog, Bailey- So full of energy and love
3. Coffee… and creamer
4. Chocolate
5. My family and my new extended family- Not sure how I got so lucky
6. God- The reason for my blessings
7. My Friends- Old and New
8. Champagne, my amazing business partner and our team of planners- Incredible what hard work and dedication can accomplish!
9. Scarves
10. Photos- The perfect way to re-live the most special of moments over and over!

We are so thankful for each and everyone of you!! We hope that you enjoyed getting to know a little bit about all of us here at Champagne!
We wish you the happiest of Thanksgiving and best wishes as you do your Black Friday shopping tomorrow! Don’t run anyone over with your cart! : )

Cheers,

The Champagne Team

Colleen:

Colleen and her boyfriend, Stephen

1. My amazing family.  Without them I would not be where I am today.
2. My wonderful boyfriend, Stephen, who makes me laugh every day!
3. Band-aid blister block, which has saved my feet numerous times.
4. Mittens, which help keep my always cold hands warm.
5. To have a place to call home here in Portland and also where I was raised in Boulder, Colorado. 
6.  Cute shoes of all kinds!
7.  Chocolate : )
8.  Label makers, which is the best invention since sliced bread!
9.  My friends, but especially my best friend for the past 15 years, Morgon.
10. Macaroni & cheese which is by far my favorite food.

Tami:

Tami and her boyfriend, Chris

Tami’s niece

1. My best friend and incredible boyfriend, Chris
2. My parents who are always so supportive of me
3. My niece who is cute as a button and can always put a smile on my face
4. My friends who are always there for me through ups and downs
5. My career in wedding planning, not everyone can make a living doing their passion!
6. Food! I love sitting around the table enjoying a good meal with friends or family
7. Portland, what a beautiful city to live in
8. Coffee, pretty incredible beverage
9. My health & freedom
10. Nordstrom ; )

Molly:

A photo that Molly took of her Sister.

1. My Family and Friends
2. God
3. My Fiance
4. My Sister
5. Sunshine!!
6. Weddings and being apart of the Champagne Family
7. Serendipitous Moments
8. Photography
9. Picnics
10.Our French Bulldog, Mowgli

One more day of our Thankful posts tomorrow! We are so thankful for all of you, our past and present clients, potential clients, friends and family! We wish you a wonderful holiday!!

Cheers,
The Champagne Team

Allison:

Some of Allison’s family, friends and dogs!

1) I am thankful for my parents, who always support me and give me good advice
2) I am thankful for my brother, who is a great friend and person
3) I am thankful for my grandparents, with out them I would not be able to do a lot of what I have in my life
4) I am thankful for the pets in my live, who give me so much joy and teach me unconditional love.
5) I am thankful for my boyfriend, who is just amazing. I could not have asked for a more amazing man.
6) I am thankful for Oregon weather. I love the season here. Even though summer always feels too short, I really appreciate four distinct season.
7) I am thankful to live in a free country. This is something that I forget often. Things like being able to ride in the front seat of a car, voting, and choose who I marry are not freedoms all women get.
8) I am thankful for my job. Being able to pay my bills and do things I love with out being stressed is not something that everyone gets to do these days.
9) I am thankful for my health. Being healthy, not having any major health problems is also something I forget to be thankful for.
10) I am thankful for my friends. I have wonderful friends that are so good to me! Life is so much better with them!

Jenn:

Jenn and her cousins!

Jenn with the ladies in her bible study!

1. I am thankful that God is on my side, even though I’ve done nothing to deserve it. He is always there and watches out for my best. His timing is impeccable and He has put in me a discernment that even I don’t understand sometimes. I am blessed beyond belief with my faith.
2. I am thankful for work!
3. I am thankful for the amazing opportunity to do what I LOVE! Never in a million years did I think I would be where I am at now, so quickly! It has always been a dream of mine to work in the wedding industry. I by chance heard of Champagne and within a month was on board with these fabulous ladies! I love what I do and how many people I have met along the way! I hope one day to be in the presence of Preston Bailey himself! *One can dream*
4. I am thankful for my musical talent.
5. I am thankful for all the friends I have had. Each has molded me in some way to make me who I am today, whether good or bad.
6. With that said, I am thankful for this {long} season of singleness! Every little girl’s dream is to be in a white dress, going down the isle! While that dream does not fade as we get older, especially working in the wedding industry, you start to realize that it’s not half bad being single! God knows why I am still single, has filled up my days with much to do, and I have a group of amazing men of God that keep me entertained while the perfect one is preparing to sweep me off my feet!
7. I am thankful for my little apartment I call home!
8. This may sound a bit odd, but I am thankful that I was able to be vegetarian for over a year!
9. I am thankful for peace.
10. Last, but certainly not least, I am beyond thankful for the family that God made me part of.

We hope you have a wonderful weekend!!

Cheers,

The Champagne Team

First up, Danielle:

Danielle and her fiancé Nate

1.    I am thankful for my wonderful fiancé Nate who everyday puts a smile on my face.
2.    I am thankful for my mother who taught me to always follow my dreams.
3.    I am thankful for my father who encourages me to be my best.
4.    I am thankful for my brother who always keeps me laughing.
5.    I am thankful for all of my amazing friends.
6.    I am thankful for pumpkin pie chai and cozy blankets.
7.    I am thankful to have born and raised in the Pacific Northwest.
8.    I am thankful that Nostrana is in walking distance from our house.
9.    I am thankful for the La Nina weather pattern so I can have a winter white wedding.
10.    I am thankful to be working my dream job!

Second, Michelle:

Michelle’s kids, Kaitcha and Karson!

1. I’m thankful for my family that loves me unconditionally.
2. I’m thankful for warm hugs from my kids that melt my heart.
3. I’m thankful for new friends and longtime friends.
4. I’m thankful for good health within myself and my loved ones.
5. I’m thankful to have a job in times like these.
6. I’m thankful to have a job that allows me cherished time with my children.
7. I’m thankful for a warm home and food to eat.
8. I’m thankful for hot tea on a cold day and iced tea on a hot day.
9. I’m thankful to have silly kids that help me stay young at heart.
10. Chocolate : )

More thankfulness coming up later this week! Have you become our fan on Facebook? Pop on over to our Champagne Wedding & Event Coordination and Champagne Vintage Rental Page!

Cheers,

The Champagne Team

Contact us today to set up your complimentary, no obligation, consultation! We look forward to hearing about your wedding plans!

Thank you to all the amazing vendors who made it a great event!

Venue: The Foundry at Oswego Pointe
Photographer: Falcusan Photography
Design & Coordination: Champagne Wedding & Event Coordination
Floral Design: Fleur:ology
Catering and bar: Premiere Catering
Entertainment: Event Team Entertainment
Rentals: The Party Place
Photo Booth: Smile Photo Booth
Dessert: Dream Cakes
Paper products: Microbrew Media

Visit our profile on The Knot here!

Cheers,

The Champagne Team

A huge thank you to all of the amazing and talented vendors for helping put together this Spook-tacular inspiration shoot!
Design and coordination: Champagne Wedding & Event Coordination
Location: Lolich Family Farms - A Gorgeous new wedding venue- also a fantastic berry and Christmas tree farm!
Photography: Jessica Hill Photography
Videography: Ambient Sky
Hair and Make up: Face Body Beauty
Dresses and accessories: AniA Collection
Flowers: Bloomsberry Floral
Paper Products: Paper Bloom Studio
Cake: AK Cake Design
Rentals: The Party Place
Finger Print Tree: Style Unveiled

Happy Halloween!

Cheers,

The Champagne Team