http://www.ChampagneNW.com/blog/index/ en eric.appel@gmail.com Copyright 2012 2012-02-06T22:10:43+00:00 http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/portland_makeup_artist_hair_design/ http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/portland_makeup_artist_hair_design/#When:22:10:43Z Imagine it’s your wedding day. You’re so excited, nervous, giddy, anxious, as you await the hours…minutes… leading up until the moment you say, “i do”! Imagine how much stress would be relieved if you did not have to do your own hair and make up! You could sit back, relax, soak up the moments with your mom and bridesmaids! Not only is having your hair and make up professionally done great for easing stress, but the hair and make up artists also know how much make up to put on to make sure that you’re photo ready! However, a trial run is a must, as you want to know that you’re going to love the way you look. If you don’t like something- tell them! Imagine it’s your wedding day. You’re so excited, nervous, giddy, anxious, as you await the hours…minutes… leading up until the moment you say, “i do”! Imagine how much stress would be relieved if you did not have to do your own hair and make up! You could sit back, relax, soak up the moments with your mom and bridesmaids! Not only is having your hair and make up professionally done great for easing stress, but the hair and make up artists also know how much make up to put on to make sure that you’re photo ready! However, a trial run is a must, as you want to know that you’re going to love the way you look. If you don’t like something- tell them! Enough from us, we’re excited for you to hear from, day 6 vendor, Kristin Ariniello Makeup and Hair Artist! Enjoy! Champagne: When/how did you decide you wanted to be a hair/make up artist? Kristin Ariniello: I grew up in the modeling industry here in Portland, Oregon. I started modeling when I was 4 years old. My mother was a professional model as well. I remember so many experiences with modeling as a kid and locally traveling around with my mother. I met so many different artist including many photographers, wardrobe stylist, makeup and hair, models and some actors. I was a very observant child and really absorbed all that I saw and experienced. I started doing makeup and hair when I was 14. I was on a dance team of 40 girls. I noticed we needed some serious help with makeup and hair. I asked my coach if I could take on this endeavor. She was more than happy to accommodate me. I had a couple other dance team members help me in the assembly line of beauty. Everyone really liked the results and called me a natural. In the back of my mind I always pictured myself working behind the scenes in photography, film, etc. I started working professionally as a hair and makeup artist in 1988. I work in many different formats including one of my favorites, Weddings. Photo by CL Steele Champagne: What’s your favorite part about your job? Kristin Ariniello: I truly love all the aspects of my job, from emails, to bookings, traveling to meeting the client for the first time. The makeup application and the hair styling is such a creative process for me. My up most favorite is seeing the client smiling as they look in the mirror for the first time. Seeing people see their own beauty is so rewarding. Photo by Lauren Brooks Photography Champagne: We’ve had brides say they don’t want to get their hair/make up professionally done because they don’t think they look like themselves, what’s your response to this? Kristin Ariniello: I think it is really important for the bride to do some research on the artists that are available. Definitely, do the preview or trial run. I like the bride to have photos of makeup and hair they are leaning toward. It gives me a visual to work from. I also, ask questions to gage just what the person sees in the photo. I always work from a more minimal prospective and then add more if they would like to see how that looks. Modifications can always be made, even on the wedding day. For me it is about the brides vision, her personality and style. Photo by Kim McElroy Photography Champagne: How would you explain your style? Kristin Ariniello: My style is about beauty. I always keep my mind open to the moment, the feeling and the person. I do all kinds of makeup and hair applications. I am a perfectionist, which really works in this field.  Beauty comes in so many shades, intensities, textures, colors and hues. I am open to all the possibilities and transformations of beauty. Photo by Fritz Photo Photo by Kimi Kolba Photography Champagne: Let’s say a bride uses Bare Minerals, do you have something that would work for them? Kristin Ariniello: I am not the biggest fan of mineral makeup. I find it lifts and separates from the skin as the day goes on.  I like to use a liquid foundation with loose powder over the top. It comes down to the application. Getting a fine smooth finish is the ultimate goal. I have clients tell me all the time they don’t feel like their wearing any makeup. It feels fresh, light, and wears all day on into the night. Photo by Kimberly Kay Photography Champagne: What do you do, when you’re not doing, what you do? Kristin Ariniello: I am a busy single mom with a 16 year old son and 11 year old daughter. I love to cook. I love learning new things and to experiment with different ethnic foods. I find it really grounds me and I love the creativity in it. My son likes to cook as well, so sometimes it becomes a joint venture. My daughter is learning some of the basics. Photo by Kimberly Kay Photography Photo by Danielle Peterson Photography Champagne: Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? Kristin Ariniello: I always tell my clients to experiment with color, practice and try something new. Even subtle changes can give a person a sense of freedom. You don’t have to spend tons of money. A smooth texture with any product is what you are looking for. I always try product on my hand. For example, an eyeliner penciled across your hand should not pull or tug the skin or look clumpy in spots. It should be a nice smooth feeling and look. That is what it will look on your face. Take care of your makeup brushes. Wash them in lukewarm water and stand them brush side up in a cup to dry. In fact, store them brush side up. Don’t just throw them in the makeup bag. It ruins the bristles and is not very sanitary. Keep your makeup clean. Wash the outside of the cases with alcohol. Also, take some dry tissue and lightly smear over the inside of the product. If you do this you own makeup application will look better. Photo by Kim McElroy Photography Champagne: Thank you, Kristin [Kristin Ariniello Makeup and Hair Artist], for telling us more about your company! Make sure to check out their website! Check out previous posts from our 30 days of vendors: Day 5 of 30: Officiant Beverly Mason Day 4 of 30: Collage Music Day 3 of 30: Zest Floral Day 2 of 30: Gabriel Boone Photography Day 1 of 30: Maggie’s Buns 2011 2010 What’s 30 days of Vendors?   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!   2012-02-06T22:10:43+00:00 http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/portland_wedding_officiant/ http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/portland_wedding_officiant/#When:16:26:11Z I love waking up to the sun pouring into the room! We’re starting this beautiful Sunday with our 5th day of the 30 days of vendor! Get to know officiant, Beverly Mason of The Radiant Touch! Enjoy!   I love waking up to the sun pouring into the room! We’re starting this beautiful Sunday with our 5th day of the 30 days of vendor! Get to know officiant, Beverly Mason of The Radiant Touch! Enjoy! Champagne: How did you decide you wanted to become an officiant? The Radiant Touch: In the years of working for the County Clerk’s office, and issuing thousands of marriage licenses, I began to see a need for quality officiants for many wedding couples. I have always had a love for weddings. I decided that this would be a way for me to provide a much needed service and also be in the environment that I love most. WEDDINGS! I got my feet wet by performing elopements; LOTS of elopements! I performed 35 in the first three months of business. As requests for larger and more extravagant weddings started coming in, I expanded my knowledge of traditions, religions, trends and unique ceremonies. It was a dream come true. I finally had a career doing something I absolutely LOVED! Within 6 months I left my government job and devoted all of my time to the wedding industry. I’ve never regretted it even once. Champagne: Do you perform weddings that are non-denominational? The Radiant Touch: I perform just about any type of ceremony that a couple could want. If they desire a religious ceremony, then yes, it’s non-denominational.  Most of my couples are more interested in what I call a “contemporary” ceremony. The words are about love, commitment, family, learning, growing and creating a marriage together. Only a few specific statements must be in the ceremony, the rest is open for the couple to choose. I offer many samples and varieties if the couple wishes to choose, otherwise it can be completely customized. Photo by CL Steele Champagne: How do you guide your couples through the ceremony planning process? The Radiant Touch: At the first consultation to get to know each other and discuss options, I share with the couple many different ideas and variances that are available to them. Often I bring up subjects that they never had considered or known about but they love. Once a basic format is worked out I will work on a ceremony draft and send it by email for approval. It then gets tweaked and modified as the couple sees fit until we have the final draft. Photo by The Radiant Touch Champagne: Why do you love performing weddings? The Radiant Touch: I love performing weddings because it allows me to surround myself with people who are happy and in love!! What more could you ask for in a job? I meet wonderful people and their families and friends. Some clients have become lifelong friends. Champagne: How do you get to know your clients before their wedding? The Radiant Touch: At the initial sit down, we chat, talk about interests, stories and so on. It’s usually a very nice, relaxed time to see if personalities are a match between us. Champagne: To you, what is key to creating a successful event? The Radiant Touch: Most importantly is communication between the wedding professionals that the couple has hired.  If there is a good working relationship and team work between the coordinator, photographer, officiant, musicians and everyone else, then the event will definitely have a better chance of running smooth and being a success. Photo by The Radiant Touch Champagne: What do you do, when you’re not doing what you do? The Radiant Touch: I don’t have any “day job”, so I am available to couples 7 days a week, any time of day. But since I love the wedding industry so much, I devote a lot of time to running a networking association for wedding professionals called “NW Wed Pro” and I also enjoy building websites and promotions for people who I meet in small business. Photo by The Radiant Touch Champagne: Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? The Radiant Touch: Choose your officiant that will make you feel calm and at ease during the ceremony, who has lots of experience and who has an expressive voice and personality. Champagne: Thank you, Beverly [The Radiant Touch], for sharing more about business with us! Head on over and “like” them on facebook and browse their website! Check out previous posts from our 30 days of vendors: Day 4 of 30: Collage Music Day 3 of 30: Zest Floral Day 2 of 30: Gabriel Boone Photography Day 1 of 30: Maggie’s Buns 2011 2010 What’s 30 days of Vendors? 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! 2012-02-05T16:26:11+00:00 http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/portland_ceremony_music/ http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/portland_ceremony_music/#When:04:13:10Z Don’t under estimate the power of music… even more so live music! Day 4 of 30, get to know Susan of the accomplished musical group, Collage Music! Don’t under estimate the power of music… even more so live music! Day 4 of 30, get to know Susan of the accomplished musical group, Collage Music! Champagne: How did Collage Trio get started? Collage Trio: When I was in music school my good friend, cellist Skip vonKuske, hired me to play with him for a wedding ceremony at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden.  Afterward, we thought, “This is so much fun!  Let’s keep doing it!” Skip had lots of experience playing in string quartets for weddings, so he was instrumental in helping me get started.  At the time, I was doing a lot of painting and I had just finished a piece that was a painted-paper collage of a dandelion seed head.  Skip was inspired by that and suggested the name “Collage Trio.”  Eventually, we started incorporating my (later-to-be) husband, guitarist David Langenes into the mix, and things just grew from there. Photo by Modern Art Photograph Photo by Modern Art Photograph Champagne: When did you discover your love for music? Collage Trio: You know, I’m convinced everyone is born with a love for music; we all just manifest it differently.  My grandmother was a singer from the 40s through the 90s, and growing up hearing her sing the popular songs of her day - we’d call them jazz standards now - gave me a love for that music that I could never shake.  As a kid I wanted to sing that stuff, and maybe play saxophone.  But I was too shy, and too fearful of competition (especially with my brother, who demonstrated great aptitude at the piano as a kid) to study music.  When I was 24, I finally got tired of not knowing how to read music, so I started teaching myself to read and play a flute that an ex-boyfriend had given me.  Two years later I was enrolled in music school, and I got my first orchestra gig playing Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro” in Astoria.  An indication of things to come… Photo by Modern Art Photograph Champagne: How would you describe your musical style? Collage Trio: I often joke that as a wedding musician, my style is any style I am asked to play!  It’s true, to a point.  Since everyone at Collage has classical training and most of us have also studied jazz, I’d say that most of our repertoire is rooted in those two areas.  But beyond that, the music we play and how we play it really is a collaboration between us and our audiences and clients—and this is true for weddings and events as well as bands where we play in clubs.  It’s a marriage of what audiences and clients want to hear, and what we love to play.  Happily, I find there’s usually plenty of overlap! Photo by Modern Art Photograph Photo by Charles Fine Arts Portraits Champagne: What would you tell someone to look for when hiring a live musician? Collage Trio: Wedding and event musicians should service-oriented. What do I mean by that?  They should understand how the event is structured, and what their role is within that.  They should be able to set aside their own egos (!) and perform appropriately (in terms of volume, repertoire, and style) for the situation at hand.  Experience is usually a good indicator of the ability to be service-oriented. And for anyone hiring a vocalist, it’s pretty much critical that you like that singer’s voice.  Photo by Elisa Lazo de Valdez Champagne: Do you have a list of songs you know? Are you able to learn new music for clients? Collage Trio: Absolutely, on both counts!  Funny, I just wrote a blog post on this subject.  So, each of the musical groups we offer has its own song list and those are all on our website.  For groups that have a guitar as one of the instruments, we will learn two new songs (anything!) at no additional charge.  For groups that don’t have a guitar, we’ll learn one new song.  We’re happy to learn additional new songs, but depending on the song itself we might have to ask for a little compensation for the extra time it takes to make new songs sound awesome. Photo by Lisa McMaster Photo by Modern Art Photograph Champagne: To you, what is key to creating a successful event? Collage Trio: Prioritizing the guests and making sure their experience is as good as it can possibly be. Maintaining flexibility, and not being rigid about the flow of events - especially on the day. And hiring professional vendors who know each other and can work well together is always a win. Photo by Modern Art Photograph Champagne: What do you do, when you’re not doing, what you do? Collage Trio: Hehe… good one.  I spend a lot of time researching new songs for our band Susie and the Sidecars; lately it’s been explorations of obscure 50’s and 60’s pop keeping me up until the wee hours on YouTube.  I do all our graphic and web design myself, and I frequently take on such projects for others as well.  David and I are also avid cooks, with a heavy emphasis on Thai. I mean, we even have a Kaffir lime tree. I’ve gotten pretty good at Pad Kee Mao, Khai Jeow, and Som Tam (papaya salad).  His specialties are Pad Thai and Tom Kha.  Perhaps most importantly, however, we operate doors and the bathtub-drinking-fountain for our three cats Inanna, Mia, and Astor Piazzolla, who have us trained quite well. Photo by Modern Art Photograph Champagne: Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? Collage Trio: Our band Susie and the Sidecars plays every 2nd Monday, 6-8 pm, at Duff’s Garage down at SE 7th and Clay.  We’ve been having an absolute ball with that band, and it’s a fun and informal setting. Next shows are Feb 13 and March 12. Champagne: Thank you, Susan [Collage Music], for telling us more about your company! Make sure to head over and check out their website and “like” them on facebook! 30 days of vendors booking special: 10% discount at Collage Music when you book a Friday or Sunday wedding. *Valid for any new bookings, discount password is “Champagne” Check out previous posts from our 30 days of vendors: Day 3 of 30: Zest Floral Day 2 of 30: Gabriel Boone Photography Day 1 of 30: Maggie’s Buns 2011 2010 What’s 30 days of Vendors? 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! 2012-02-05T04:13:10+00:00 http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/floral_and_event_design/ http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/floral_and_event_design/#When:21:03:56Z Happy Friday! This beautiful weather has us dreaming of spring days filled with sun and gorgeous blooming tulips and daffodils! We’re bringing you something bright and blooming today on our 3rd day of our 30 days of vendors, Hailey with Zest Floral and Event Design!  Incredibly creative and talented! Enjoy getting to know Hailey and more about her floral style! Happy Friday! This beautiful weather has us dreaming of spring days filled with sun and gorgeous blooming tulips and daffodils! Today, we are bringing you something bright and blooming on our 3rd day of our 30 days of vendors, Hailey with Zest Floral and Event Design!  Incredibly creative and talented! Enjoy getting to know Hailey and more about her floral style! 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! Check out previous posts from our 30 days of vendors: Day 2 of 30: Gabriel Boone Photography Day 1 of 30: Maggie’s Buns 2011 2010 What’s 30 days of Vendors? 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! 2012-02-03T21:03:56+00:00 http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/portland_oregon_photography/ http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/portland_oregon_photography/#When:23:09:26Z Gabriel and Boone. Two brothers who have a passion for photography, that work together to make weddings fun and photos gorgeous! We are very excited that Boone has joined us to tell you all about Gabriel Boone Photography. Enjoy! Gabriel and Boone. Two brothers who have a passion for photography, that work together to make weddings fun and photos gorgeous! They truly rock! We are very excited that Boone has joined us to tell you all about Gabriel Boone Photography. Enjoy! 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! Check out previous posts from our 30 days of vendors: Day 1 of 30: Maggie’s Buns 2011 2010 What’s 30 days of Vendors? See you tomorrow! Cheers, The Champagne Team 2012-02-02T23:09:26+00:00 http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/portland_oregon_caterer/ http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/portland_oregon_caterer/#When:16:29:00Z Today. February 1st. The first day of our 3rd Annual 30 days of Vendors blog feature! We’re so excited to share what we have in store for you this year! This year, we have adding some giveaway items, as well as some discounts, along the way! Read on to find out more! 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! Today. February 1st. The first day of our 3rd Annual 30 days of Vendors blog feature! We’re so excited to share what we have in store for you this year! We have added some fantastic giveaway items, as well as special discounts! Read on to find out more! 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] Check out previous posts from our 30 days of vendors: 2011 2010 What’s 30 days of Vendors? Cheers, The Champagne Team 2012-02-01T16:29:00+00:00 http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/abernethy_dream_wedding_giveaway/ http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/abernethy_dream_wedding_giveaway/#When:16:13:20Z Let the wedding planning begin! Chasity’s reaction to winning the Abernethy Center Dream Wedding Giveaway! Let the wedding planning begin! Chasity’s reaction to winning the Abernethy Center Dream Wedding Giveaway! Click here to read more about the Giveaway and read Grant’s reaction! Enjoy! 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 2012-02-01T16:13:20+00:00 http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/stella_dot/ http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/stella_dot/#When:06:34:10Z Charming, stylish, beautiful… a few words to describe Stella & Dot! I’ve been a fan of Stella & Dot for some time now and was so excited to find out that one of my best friends from college became a stylist! I’m very excited for Alicia to share more about this gorgeous line of jewelry! Enjoy! Charming, stylish, beautiful… a few words to describe Stella & Dot! I’ve been a fan of Stella & Dot for some time now and was so excited to find out that one of my best friends from college became a stylist! I’m very excited for Alicia to share more about this gorgeous line of jewelry! Enjoy! 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 2012-01-28T06:34:10+00:00 http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/abernethy_giveaway_planning-_week_1/ http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/abernethy_giveaway_planning-_week_1/#When:18:25:27Z A few months ago, we were approached by The Abernethy Center to be a part of their Dream Wedding Giveaway to help celebrate the opening of the opening of their new chapel! This Dream Wedding Giveaway is valued at over $40,000! We were overwhelmed by all the incredible entries, as each one had a compelling story. We had hoped that so many of them could have won and send them all our best wishes! The winner was picked last Monday and we can’t wait to start getting the wedding plans under way!  We couldn’t be more excited to be helping winners, Chasity and Grant, pull together the details for their upcoming wedding! A few months ago, we were approached by The Abernethy Center to be a part of their Dream Wedding Giveaway to help celebrate the opening of the opening of their new chapel! This Dream Wedding Giveaway is valued at over $40,000! We were overwhelmed by all the incredible entries, as each one had a compelling story. We had hoped that so many of them could have won and send them all our best wishes! The winner was picked last Monday and we can’t wait to start getting the wedding plans under way!  We couldn’t be more excited to be helping winners, Chasity and Grant, pull together the details for their upcoming wedding! 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 2012-01-22T18:25:27+00:00 http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/wedding_inspiration_features/ http://www.ChampagneNW.com/site/wedding_inspiration_features/#When:03:58:50Z It’s hard to believe we are nearly through our second week of 2012! We took a moment to look back on 2011, all the amazing couples and incredible vendors we had the opportunity to meet and work with- we’ve had a truly blessed year! We, also, looked back at all the places our work has been featured over the last year and wanted to share those links with you! We’re so grateful for each and everyone of you! Here’s to 2012- the best is yet to come! It’s hard to believe we are nearly through our second week of 2012! We took a moment to look back on 2011, all the amazing couples and incredible vendors we had the opportunity to meet and work with- we’ve had a truly blessed year! We, also, looked back at all the places our work has been featured over the last year and wanted to share those links with you! We’re so grateful for each and everyone of you! Here’s to 2012- the best is yet to come! 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 2012-01-11T03:58:50+00:00