Vendor Highlight: Nate Jester of Ace of Illusions

Image used with permissionsWhat is your name and company?
Nate Jester of Ace of Illusions

What inspired you to start your business?
My business is my passion.  People see my passion, excitement and love that I have for what I do immediately, when I start performing.  I started my business because I wanted to make a living doing what I love and sharing my passion.  It’s truly magical seeing the reactions my illusions have on my audiences.

What sets you apart from other vendors in your field?
My personality and positive attitude and approachable presentation is truly what sets me apart from my competitors.  I’m in the business of entertaining.  There is so much more to what I do than just “tricks.”  I am the life of every cocktail party when I work.

What's your style?
My style is very friendly, casual, classy and comfortable for every audience, age and demographic.  I simply work the crowd, mingling through the event, creating unbelievable illusions, one smile at a time.

What is the main thing that makes you unique?
I am memorable because my audiences enjoy the experience I’ve given them.  I have an unwavering ability to disarm mystify and intrigue my audiences with no variables!  My audiences often tell me I’m unique because of my ability to uplift the social atmosphere of a party!

What is your greatest strength?
My greatest strength is my incredible passion for what I do.  With out it, I have nothing.

What are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of my son.  He’s the joy of my life and I can’t wait to teach him some of my illusions.  Professionally, I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built with industry event/wedding planners, entertainment agencies, television networks and companies… they keep coming back for my business year after year!

Ace of Illusions was featured at The Loft at Russell's.  

Vendor Highlight: Nash Fung, Seattle Premier Wedding Magician

Photo used with permissionsWhat is your name and company?
Seattle Premier Wedding Magician – Nash Fung 

What inspired you to start your business?
Having a professional magician mingling among guests in a wedding is a popular trend in England and Hong Kong (where I grew up). I’ve been to a few weddings with magicians and they were big hit. So, that’s what inspired me to get into the wedding market because I’ve seen how it works! 

What sets you apart from other vendors in your field?
I speak fluent Chinese so that helps for Asian weddings.  Otherwise, it would be my creativity and originality. Magicians get a bad rep for doing the same tricks, so I spend a lot of time creating new magic or putting my own spin on the classics. When a wedding party hires me, they are GUARANTEED to see magic like never before, not another cliché ‘rabbit out of the hat’ magician  

What's your style?
I’d describe my show as ‘sophisticated magic with a dash of clean comedy.’ My approach is to be engaging and not take myself too seriously. I want my guests to be mystified by my magic, but more importantly, to HAVE FUN when they’re around me. 

What is the main thing that makes you unique?
My creativity. I often take requests from brides and grooms to create tricks specifically for their weddings. I’ve had a groom wanting to surprise his wife with a special trick surrounding the major events of their love story; recently a bride wanted to surprise her husband with a luxurious watch to add to his collection. I put together a trick to ‘grant her wish’, here’s the video:

So yes, being able to create and customize magic based on the wedding party’s vision and personality is a major plus for them. 

What is your greatest strength?
That’s a tough call. I’d say my easy-going personality is a major strength. When you hire a wedding entertainer, you want someone that will be respectful to the guests, and more importantly, be able to CONNECT with them. 
On the other hand, I kept in touch with a lot of brides+grooms, and they always tell me how much their guests loved the unique factor I added to their weddings, and people are still talking about it. I guess my ability to make a wedding MEMORABLE is another huge strength. 

 What are you most proud of?

That the idea of wedding magician is slowly gaining more recognitions. I started focusing on wedding 3 yrs ago, it was such a new idea that a lot of people misunderstood it. They thought it was for kids only, that it would be cheesy, or even a distraction as they thought I’d be sawing a woman in half in the middle of the wedding…. It was a major up-hill battle.
But over time, I’ve showed brides and people in the industry that my style of magic is sophisticated, modern, and FUN! Recently I won The Knot’s “Best of Weddings 2011” in the unique wedding ideas category, I’m very happy about that. But mostly, I’m just happy to hear so many tremendous feedbacks from brides who have used me and were SKEPTICAL at first.

Nash's magic was featured at Willow's Lodge.

Winter Wonderland at Columbia Winery with Merry Beth Turpin of Aisle of View

Columbia Winery with its classic elegance is located in the heart of Woodinville’s wine country.   Its preferred catering, exceptional menu’s and impeccable service, the winery will inspire you and create a very memorable wedding day.  The venue can accommodate 225 guests.  Merry Beth Turpin of Aisle of View transformed the winery into a winter wonderland highlighting how winter weddings are like fire and ice with decor that is shimmery and icy while the ambience is warm and inviting. 

Here are a few highlights taken by Azzura Photography of the event:

Merry Beth Turpin of Aisle of View transformed the winery into a winter wonderland with icy blues and soft whites that glistened and radiated with a unique style. 

Photo by Azzura Photography

Soft draping surrounded the room and snowflakes lighted the walls provided by Rented Elegance enhanced the scene.  Soft seating surrounded the warm and inviting fireplaces.  The ceremony site was unique with it banquette seating and ample white flowers and candlelight.

Photo by Azzura Photography

Classic big band music provided by Chris Graves of Your Song Entertainment filled the room which added to the elegant atmosphere. Chris and the band stood out in tuxes from Wall Street Custom Clothiers.

Photo by Azzura Photography

Lisa Dupar Catering and Seastar Restaurant/John Howie Steak Catering catered the event with their amazing Hors D’oeuvres, an epicurean delight for all guests.

Photo by Azzura Photography

A whimsical Winter Wonderland cake by Mike’s Amazing Cakes. 

Photo by Azzura Photography

Luxe, Dreamy Sophistication at JM Cellars with Melody Davis of MG Davis Events

JM Cellars, is a family owned winery, beautifully nestled on a hillside known as the "Bramble Bump".  Melody Davis of MG Davis Events, enhanced the winery's soulful and inviting atmosphere from the moment one stepped out onto the walkway leading towards the barrel room inviting you to "Enjoy" and "Sip" to the toasty fire pit outside beckoning one to grab a roasting stick and make a custom s'mores.  The color palette featured shades of gold, slate, creamy white and metallic tones to enhance the warm and romantic setting that is JM Cellars.

Here are a few highlights taken by Creative Image Photography of the event:

Set for an intimate meal celebrated among friends & family, a formal look was created by Melody of MG Davis Events, Paper Passionista and Allison of Scarlett Blooms, using elegant centerpieces, luxurious linens and a table showcasing beautiful found treasures. 

Photo by Creative Image Photography

Scarlett Blooms take the art of floral design to an unexpected and brilliant place by featuring balsa wood flowers settled among the fresh floral arrangement.  

Photo by Creative Image Photography

A clear tent from ABC Special Event Rentals illustrated how to host an elegant wedding outside, despite our rainy Northwest weather, while maintaining a fun party atmosphere.  Guests kept warm, dry and in a festive mood with help from the glow of twinkle lights and entertainment by The Haggis Brothers.

Photo by Creative Image Photography

Photo by Creative Image Photography

JM Cellars wine barrel room featured a bountiful array of delectable treats from Tallant House that were enhanced by hand-crafted from old millinery trims, vintage oddities, handmade fancies and German glass glitter, paper cake toppers and cupcake flags by Patricia Minish Designs.

Photo by Creative Image Photography

Vendors at Willows Lodge for Weddings in Woodinville 2011 Tour Date

The following vendors will be featured at Willows Lodge during Weddings in Woodinville 2011.  Below you will find short biographies of each company and website information.  Many companies featured below can also be “liked” through the Favorite Vendors on the Weddings in Woodinville Facebook Page.

Planner & Founding Board Member

Jennifer Taylor of Taylor’d Events 

Jennifer Taylor of Taylor'd Events by JenniferAt Taylor'd Events by Jennifer we know creating an event or wedding should be something you enjoy doing, with the planning of a wedding taking 200 to 450 hours let us help.  I have been helping couples enjoy the process of planning their wedding since 2005.  From vendor referrals to logistics of the wedding day let me and my team help you enjoy you engagement!  Taylor'd Events by Jennifer has been awarded 2010 Wedding Wire Brides Award and the 2010 Seattle Bride Magazine Best of Wedding Day Coordinator.  

For more information, please visit www.taylordeventsbyjen.com

Florist

Elements in Bloom 

Elements in Bloom specializes in custom floral designs for weddings and events.  We believe that just as each client is unique, so are their décor needs. It is important to listen to our clients to ensure we gather a clear understanding of their style, vision and personality in order to incorporate their individuality into our designs. 

Tanya Davis has been working in the floral industry since 1999. Her passion for flowers and design are constant inspiration to create incredible designs for your special event. Clients praise her for professionalism, attention to detail, flexibility and vision of the perfect event.

For more information, please visit www.elementsinbloom.com

Paper

Jennifer Witsil Creative

Jennifer Witsil Creative specializes in creating handmade, customJennifer Witsil of Jennifer Witsil Creative invitations and coordinating accessories for weddings and other joyous occasions. Let Jennifer’s unique invitations be the first glimpse your guests have into the festivities to come!

Every piece is a one-of-a-kind design inspired by a one-of-a-kind couple.  All designs are custom created, designed and assembled from scratch, so you will not see the same invitation twice. With strict attention to detail, Jennifer will make sure each creation is a pleasure to open and an unforgettable keepsake for your recipient. 

Visit Jennifer online at http://jenniferwitsilcreative.web.officelive.com

Cake

Starry Nights 

At Starry Nights, we believe your wedding cake should be as delicious as it is beautiful. We bake your gourmet cake from scratch, using the highest quality ingredients- like whole fruits, imported chocolate, and butter and cream - to create the cake of your dreams. Our decadent flavors include Irish Cream Chocolate, Orange Creamsicle, and Green Tea Mango- and decorated in the style and colors to match your special wedding theme. We also do mini wedding cakes, cupcakes, and dessert buffets. Our cakes have even been featured on the Food Network’s Cake Challenge! If you can dream it, we can bake it.

For more information, please visit http://www.starrynightscatering.com/

Décor

Candeo Flower

Candeo Flower, a unique mosaic glass candle holder, was designed to addsDark Orchid Candeo Flower  elegance to your rehearsal dinner or wedding. Our illuminating flowers are perfect for any celebration. Light up your reception room, walkways and aisle for your indoor or outdoor wedding to create a beautiful illumination and glow to your special day. Our newest product, Bouquet Babies, was designed for the bride looking for a unique bouquet and tabletop decor.  We use flameless tealiglht candles which insures your wedding illuminates throughout your ceremony.

Candeo Flower, a unique mosaic glass candle holder, was designed to adds elegance to your rehearsal dinner or wedding. Our illuminating flowers are perfect for any celebration. Light up your reception room, walkways and aisle for your indoor or outdoor wedding to create a beautiful illumination and glow to your special day. Our newest product, Bouquet Babies, was designed for the bride looking for a unique bouquet and tabletop decor.  We use flameless tealiglht candles which insures your wedding illuminates throughout your ceremony.

For more information, please visit http://www.candeoflower.com/

Gift Baskets

Marrylicious 

Marrylicious specializes in custom gourmet gift packages for weddings and events.  We proudly feature local Seattle specialty foods and beverages including: Beechers Cheese, Tom Douglas, Fran’s Chocolates, Belle Epicurean, Sweet Miniatures, Macrina Bakery, Seattle Coffee Works, LUXE Tea, Theo Chocolates & Dry Soda.

Marrylicious was awarded the 2010 Editor’s Choice award for Day of Wedding Snacks. 

For more information, please visit www.marrylicious.com 

Disco Jockey

Good Times DJ Service

Good Times DJ Service provides flawlessly planned music and lighting entertainment.

The emphasis for the Good Times brand at premier events is to deliver personable and classy event hosting, high quality equipment with a small visual footprint, rich and saturated LED lighting to add ambiance to your decor, and creative music mixing performances to make your event a standout.

Good Times DJ Service is known for creating the perfect mix of emotion and energy in music, solid event coordination, breathtaking lighting designs, and delivering a custom look and feel for your event.

For more information, please visit http://www.goodtimesdjservices.com/

Officiant

Reverend Mary Calhouh of Window to the Soul Ministry

Reverend Mary Calhoun’s specialty is creating memorable, fun, and well-Mary Calhoun of Window to the Soul Ministryorchestrated wedding ceremonies.

Before Mary graduated from seminary in 1994, she pioneered Seattle’s event planning field.  Blending her experience of organizing, writing and public speaking, Mary lends an expert, light-hearted approach that results in a seamless, high-spirited outcome.

Providing engaged couples with an extensive Ceremony Planning Packet chocked with fresh writings and invaluable tips, Rev. Mary teams with her clients to design a personalized and distinctive service.

Rev. Mary is the 2010 winner of the Seattle Bride Magazine’s “Best Officiant” award and she is just wrapping up a special project for the Oxygen Network. 

For more information, please visit www.windowtothesoulministry.com

Entertainment

Nash Fung

"Nash Fung’s appearance at my wedding was not only memorable (as heNash Fung  promised) but uniquely sophisticated and entertaining for my 350+ adult guests."
Sara and Ben Radoslovich wedding

With years of experience performing at high-end banquets and social events, Nash can make your wedding reception stand out from the rest!

His interactive magic will break the ice among guests, set the tone for the reception, and keep everyone entertained throughout the night. A trendy entertainment option for weddings, your guests are GUARANTEED to remember your wedding for years to come.

For more information, please visit www.nashfung.com

Linens

Linens by Alice

Linens by Alice takes special pride in the outstanding quality of the products and services we offer.  Our unique selection of designer fabrics, distinctive textures and extensive inventory enable us to tailor our service to your particular event. Our collection includes a wide variety of chiffons, damasks, moirés, silks, taffetas and velvets which are sure to add a dramatic dimension to any tablescape.  We also provide tailored chair covers and organza sashes.  Our creative team would be delighted to assist you in developing a linen concept for any occasion. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you soon!

For more information, please visit www.linensbyalice.com

Fitness

Koko FitClub

Like most people, do you have trouble sticking with a fitness routine? At Koko FitClub, every exercise, every workout, every day is pre-planned for you and customized to your exact fitness level.

The Koko Smartraining System precisely analyzes your unique fitness level, then designs a customized training plan based on your individual goals and ability.  You are then guided through personalized, highly effective workouts on proprietary strength and cardio equipment, giving you amazing results, all for a fraction of the cost of traditional personal training.

Now, everyone can afford personal training!  It's fitness, figured out!

For more information, please visit  http://www.kokofitclub.com/

Photography

Laura Marchbanks Photography

Laura Marchbank of Laura Marchbank PhotographyLaura Marchbanks Photography grew out of Laura's passion for relationships and connecting with people through photographing their reactions and interactions. Laura Marchbanks Photography specializes in capturing people and their surroundings with modern elegance, timeless sophistication, and meticulous detail.  Born in Seattle and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Laura is a classically trained photographer.  Laura earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the prestigious Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, California.  She has an extensive background in photography and art both technically and creatively. 

Laura is the principle photographer, supported by an associate Kate, and a patient husband Billy; together they offer a unique and inviting photography experience that is individual to each client.  With love as inspiration, they create an environment in which women feel beautiful, men hopeful, and couples comfortable and connected.  

Currently Laura Marchbanks Photography is based in the Seattle area; they photograph weddings and commercial advertising nationwide. 

For more information, please visit http://www.lauramarchbanksweddings.com/

Wedding Attire

From the Gown Up

From the Gown Up is a quaint bridal shop located in the Downtown Historic District of Snohomish, Washington. We carry our own private label collection of unique, timeless, and elegant bridal gowns that are exclusive to our store. Our private line is chosen and controlled by us to ensure beauty, quality, and style. Our vision is not focused on being the largest bridal shop in our market, but instead the shop that really cares about the unique and individual needs of our brides.

 "Thank you for serving my daughter with such grace and kindness. Your service to the customer reminds me of the good old days".-Louise

For more information, please visit www.fromthegownup.com

All photos are used with permission by the vendors.