5 Trends For Your Contemporary Wedding Ceremony

5 Trends For Your Contemporary Wedding Ceremony
By Annemarie Juhlian, Seattle Wedding Officiant
www.marriedbyannemarie.com

As you are planning your wedding ceremony, kick it up a bit and incorporate unique elements and rituals to celebrate your lifetime moment.

Today’s bride and groom often want their ceremony to be a celebration of their loving relationship and a public opportunity to express their uniqueness as a couple and gratitude to family and friends.  A well-designed ceremony offers a gentle balance between the traditional/sacred and contemporary.

As you consider what’s possible for your wedding ceremony, here are 5 fun and unique trends that I see for couples in 2014

1)     The Officiant/Minister Moves Around - To create a dynamic ceremony where the presentation is directed not only to the couple but to family and friends, your Officiant/Minister moves around the ceremony space.  Not only does this make for a more intimate ceremony but it allows a photographer to get wedding ceremony photos of a couple without having the Officiant/Minister in the way.

2)     Pooch Mania!  More and more couples are including their beloved dogs within their ceremony – whether this is a walk down the aisle, presenting the rings at the ring exchange or being a part of another ceremony moment. 

3)     Unexpected Surprises – In the past couple of years, I have worked with couples to incorporate a special surprise and/or unexpected moment into their ceremony.   One year, I worked with a groom to create a “proposal moment” before his wedding vows as he never formally proposed to his Sweetheart.  Last summer, one of my couples presented hand-crafted and personalized keepsake boxes to their parents with a special note of gratitude.  It’s not about a surprise being “big,” it is about a surprise being appropriate and real.

4)     Guys and Gals on “Both Sides” – One of the most fun trends I see is “guys and gals” on both sides of a wedding party line-up.   For instance, at one recent wedding, a groom had his sister as “Best Person” and she stood up with his guys.  At another wedding, I had guys and gals on both sides as this couple had an amazing variety of friends – both male and female.

5)     Passing Of The Rings – Here is a new twist on a part of the ring ceremony/exchange.  Before a couple exchanges rings, the Officiant/Minister orchestrates the passing of the rings to the wedding party and asks each person to momentarily take the rings and imbue a good wish into the rings. This trend works because it involves the wedding party in the ceremony and invites personal participation.

Annemarie Juhlian is a Seattle-based Non-Denominational Wedding Officiant & Minister.  She works with couples of all faiths and traditions to create contemporary and personalized ceremonies. She lives outside of Seattle on Bainbridge Island with her husband, Greg, and their family of special needs dogs.  When she isn’t working in the wedding world, you can most often find her working in dog rescue and rehabilitation throughout Seattle/Tacoma, WA.  (www.marriedbyannemarie.com)

Meet Annemarie during Weddings in Woodinville 2014 at Willows Lodge-tickets available through Brown Paper Tickets.

Working together on a lifetime moment, Annemarie Juhlian non-denominational wedding Officiant, Celebrant and Minister

The process of selecting an Officiant can be an unfamiliar process to many.  Annemarie Juhlian understands this completely and has made it a goal to work together with her couples and “to make this a fun and easy experience - no weirdness or hassles - just the joy of knowing we like each other and we have the marvelous opportunity to create and work together on a lifetime moment.”

Annemarie Juhlian is a Non-Denominational Wedding Officiant, Celebrant and Minister.  All faiths and traditions are honored.  Unstuffy, inclusive, respectful, creative, engaging, generous and fun.  Serving the Greater Seattle, Eastside and Puget Sound area.  Complimentary meeting.

Annemarie Juhlian non-denominational wedding Officiant, Celebrant and MinisterAnnemarie Juhlian will be at Columbia Winery during Weddings in Woodinville, January 29^th, 2012.

For more information about Annemarie Juhlian: 

www.wedbyannemarie.com

425.922.1325

A Perfect Little Wedding with Reverend Curtis Rhodes

Creating your “perfect little wedding” is Reverend Curtis Rhodes of A Perfect Little Wedding specialty.  He is a non-denominational minister, published author and poet who artfully prepares and sincerely presents warm, personal ceremonies to couples of all religious beliefs, ages and genders. Curtis has a natural, easygoing manner with a soft sense of humor and an honest, genuine approach needed to give your ceremony a truly heartfelt statement of your love for each other.

Reverend Curtis Rhodes creates A Perfect Little WeddingA Perfect Little Wedding will be featured at Matthews Estate on January 29, 2012 during Weddings in Woodinville.

For more information about A Perfect Little Wedding:

802.349.0041
www.aperfectlittlewedding.com 
crhodes@crhodes.net   
FACEBOOK

There's something about Mary.... Reverend Mary Calhoun of Window to the Soul Ministry

Yes, we did… we shamelessly stole from the Cameron Diaz & Ben Stiller movie about finding your true love after years apart and comical obstacles that get in your way.  What can we say, we’re suckers for a romantic story no matter how comical.

Something about (our) Mary…

Reverend Mary Calhoun’s specialty is creating memorable, fun, and well-orchestrated 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, Reverend Mary teams with her clients to design a personalized and distinctive service.

Reverend Mary is the 2010 & 2011 winner of the Seattle Bride Magazine’s “Best Officiant” award and she is just wrapping up a special project for the Oxygen Network. 

Window to the Soul Ministry will be featured at Willows Lodge during Weddings in Woodinville, January 29^th, 2012.

For more information about Window to the Soul Ministry: 

206.420.4056

revcalhoun@windowtothesoulministry.com

www.windowtothesoulministry.com

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.