Holiday Inn Harborside

"From the moment I saw Frank, I knew he was the one......" that was the sentiment that Diane expressed to Rev. Dave. They never took their eyes off each other through the whole ceremony! It was a moving, religious, ceremony. They shared their vows and heard a beautiful poem from the daughters, Jennifer and Jaimie, entitled "You Finally Found Each Other" by Nicholas Gordon. The wedding was held at the Holiday Inn Harborside, and the Day Of Services were provided by EventsbySpecialMoments.com Tammy and Erin made some last minute changes as the weather had gotten too cool for the wedding to be on the beach. They improvised, as they do so well, and moved the ceremony to the grassy area at the Hotel. Best wishes Diane and Frank.

Clearwater Beach, Florida - Baptism of Little Jackson!

Ocean breezes, waves gently coming ashore, the sounds of the gulls overhead, the sun setting off in the distance....all perfect elements as we celebrated the Baptism and Name Giving of Jackson on Madiera Beach in Florida!  Jackson enjoyed the festivities, although playing and walking  in the sand seemed a bit more appealing!  Parents Kendra and Rob,their daughters Naiomi and Savannah and Godparents Rima and Robby celebrated the birth of Jackson and welcomed him into this world.  The Godparents and his sisters are aware of the awesome responsibilities they will share in serving as mentors and caretakers of Jackson.  What a lucky little boy he is to have such a beautiful circle of family and friends to share with him joy, hope, love and peace. Jackson was blessed with the waters of the ocean in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  The candle lit flame represents the light that will guide and protect Jackson throughout life's journey of tears and laughter, of joy and sorrow, and of happiness and sadness, and great love. Each year on his birthday, the family will light the candle until he reaches 18, and then it will be kept and relit on those special occasions that occur on the journey through life.

It is said that the more love a child receives, the more they will benefit in their lives, and the more love in turn they will be able to give to others.  The more people to whom Jackson relates, the more balanced and rich his growth will be.  My wish for you Jackson, your family and friends is this.......may life's richest blessings and joys be yours.  May you grow in health of body and mind to full adulthood, and may it be your good fortune to play a worthy part in making life more pleasant for those whose paths you cross.

My Thanksgiving Wish For You

My life has been truly blessed with so many friends, a loving family, an astonishing grandaughter, wonderful and caring associates in the wedding business both near and far. . Each and everyone of you has helped me along the way in so many different ways. Through the challenges of this past summer with the death of my sister, and being there to pick me up and help me to keep going, I am truly grateful. I hope that you know what that has meant to me. May you and your families have a very Happy and Peaceful Thanksgiving.

My Gift To Couples...

In honor of Thanksgiving, I will provide for each of my couples the opportunity to select a charity of their choice and we will make a small contribution in the honor of their wedding!!! We have done this in the past, and there were many wonderful and worthwhile charities that received the benefit of this promotion. So... start thinking about your favorite charities and book your wedding now!!! My 2009 calendar is filling up quickly! Call me at 727 532-6186 or email me at LovingUnity@gmail.com or look on the website at LovingUnity.com and to all of you I wish you a VERY HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!!!!!!!

"For Better For Less" Wedding Flowers

A few weeks ago I met a lovely woman named Irene who is the owner/designer/creater for "For Better For Less? Wedding Flowers. I had the opportunity to personally see some of her creations, and all I can say is WOW!  The colors were  vibrant and the array of flowers exquisite!  Irene, works from her home and can offer an affordable alternative to traditional flower shops.  She told me she enjoys being able to give individual attention to each and every client and offers realistic prices.    She will provide a free consultation, and will help you to choose the perfect flowers for any budget.   Give Irene a call at 727-868-0522 or email her at Irene@forbetterforless.com or check out all the photos in her portfolio online at www.ForBetterForLess.com
It was a pleasure to spend time talking with Irene, and I am sure you will enjoy her as well.

Beautiful Golf Courses in Maine, Dunegrass Country Club

Congratulations Lindsay and Tim! Their exquisite wedding was held at the Dunegrass Country Club in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. Lindsay and Tim were married in front of the White Gazebo, and had their photos taken on the golf course. The day was sunny and warm, and they enjoyed being whisked away in the decorated golf cart! Jill Croak is the person to speak to if you are considering getting married at their location. It is the PERFECT spot for a wedding, with a gorgeous banquet hall, ample parking, and quality food and service. Have a look at their website at www.Dunegrass.com or give them a call and speak to Jill or Celeste. They have some incredible specials being offered right now for those wishing to book for a 2009 Wedding.

Tim and Lindsay both serve in the Military, and for that, from the bottom of my heart, I say THANK YOU. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers as you work to keep us free and safe!

Are you changing your name??? No Hassle Here!!

Changing your name doesn't have to be difficult! I bet you never thought about what is involved with changing your name, did you? It doesn't have to be difficult. I offer my couples a FREE Name Change Kit in order to walk them through it step by step. The kit "No Hassle" Name Change Kit will eliminate the confusion and streamline what could be a time consuming task. First, I want to remind you that when you go for your license, you should ask for at lease 3 certified copies of your marriage license to be mailed to you while you are on your honeymoon, that way, you are prepared to get started when you return. Some of the key places that you will be changing your name will be Social Security, the IRS, the Department of Motor Vehicles, and the Passport Agency. This free kit that I provide for my couples, is a $30 savings. It is only one of the many services that I like to provide that will make a smooth transition for you as you go from Miss to Mrs!!!

Rach's Wedding Rescue!!

I am just humbled when I hear stories of how people go to the rescue of hurricane victims. My husband and I are on the disaster team for our local church, but mostly we just repair roofs and put in windows!!! So when I heard what Rachael was doing to help the victims of Hurricane Ike, I wanted you to know as well!

Tomorrow, on the Rachael Ray show, Rachel and her staff will be going to the rescue of hundreds of brides whose dreams for a beautiful wedding were swept away by Hurricane Ike in Texas. Leave it to Rachael to step in to pull off a beautiful and grand wedding celebration to be held at the Statium. The brides of Harris County will be given a celebration to remember! Thank you Rachael for going beyong and recognizing the importance of weddings and giving these couples the opportunity to have a fantastic wedding!!! Hope you will all get a chance to check out the show tomorrow, or have a look at Rachel's site at www.RachaelRay.com for more detail. Way to go Rachael!!!!!!!!!!

You Finally Found Each Other Wedding Reading

You Finally Found Each Other by Nicholas Gordon

You finally found each other, after searching hard for love.
In this uncertain world you've come to one you're certain of.
How can you know the someone who you'll cherish throughout life?
What indices identify a husband or a wife?

Sometimes there's a gravity: Sudden, fierce, obsessed;
As if you're falling towards some star, by its strong pull possessed.


Or sometimes there's a childhood sense of unselfconscious grace,
Sustained within the safety zone of unprovoked embrace.

Sometimes there's the terror of the searing pain of grief,
As if the loss of love were death; sheer scream without relief.

Or there's a sense of loveliness too precious to be lost:
A gift of all that makes life good, beyond constraint or cost.

Whatever signs you read, they all point in the same direction:
The self that lies beyond the self, in love and shared affection.

True love lies far beyond the will, yet you must choose to love.
Each day to put aside the self, and with the angels move.

Children's Readings for Weddings

If there are children involved in the ceremony, and they are able to read, I love to suggest some great children's readings. Here are two of my favorites. The first is called "I Need a Friend" by Sherry Kafka, illustrated by Samantha Smith. This reading works best if there are two children who can take turns reading.

All by myself, I can dig for treasure - But I need a friend to hold the map.
All by myself, I can grow a flower - But I need a friend to give it to.
All by myself, I can throw a ball - But I need a friend to catch it.
All by myself, I can tell a joke - But I need a friend to laugh.
All by myself, I can climb a tree - But I need a friend to give me a post.
All by myself, I can draw a picture - But I need a friend to look at it.
All by myself, I can eat a sandwich - But I need a friend to have a picnic.
All by myself, I can run -But I need a friend to race.
All by myself, I can skin my knee - But I need a friend to feel sorry.
All by myself, I can know a secret -But I need a friend to whisper it to.
All by myself, I can dream a story - But I need a friend to listen to it.
All by myself, I can play alone - But I need a friend for sharing.

The second book is called "Together" by George Ella Lyon, with
pictures by Vera Rosenberry.

You cut the timber, and I'll build the house.
You bring the cheese, and I'll fetch the mouse.
You salt the ice, and I'll crank the cream.
Let's put our heads together, and dream the same dream!

I'll drive the truck, if you'll fight the fire.
I'll plunk the keys, if you'll be the choir.
I'll find the ball, if you'll call the team.
Let's put our heads together, and dream the same dream!

You dig for water, and I'll make a pail.
I'll paint the boat, if you'll set the sail.
You catch the fish, and I'll catch the stream.
Let's put our heads together and dream the same dream!


I just love both of these, and if you know of other readings that are great for kids to read, let me know about it!!!

How important are your linens??

I have been officiating for a long time, and attending events even longer. One of the things I notice first, is the beauty and color of the linens on the tables, and the chair covers. Specialty linens can create a breathtaking beauty and flair. In Florida, I have always been impressed by the Linens provided by Connie Duglin Linen. I have seen such a variety of colors and textures, and styles, and have seen the bride's face when she sees a completed banquet hall all dressed up. It brings her to tears of joy as she realizes the vision that she had for her day is coming true!!! The company now has over 40 new brilliant patterns, bold colors and elegant fabrics, some of which are garnet crinkle taffeta, graphite eyelash pintuck, circles of life naturals sheer, jag shag, toasted cranberry damask, sunshower pintuck, carribbean blue taffeta, apple with azalea and many, many, more! For more information, and to see a grand assortment of fabrics and colors, visit their website today www.connieduglinlinen.com or call 877-MR-Linen

The picture above, shows Toni Tassoni putting on the beautiful chair covers at the Perfect Wedding Guide Luncheon.

Candles create the ambiance you are looking for...

I had the pleasure of listening to Kristina Wehlau speak about candles, candelighting, party lights, and creating the ambiance and SCENTsational experience that you may be seeking for your shower, rehearsal dinner, wedding or other celebration. She is a candle consultant with Partylite. She is energetic and inspiring and would be able to assist you to be sure that the decor that you seek is one of beauty and all that you dream it will be. You may want to just have a soft glow, or a subtle scent, and the Partylite products stand out among the rest. The candles have color and fragrance throughout and have lead free wicks. I understand that these are the candles that are used in the Whitehouse as they do not emit soot as they are burning. Have a look at Kristina's website at www.partylite.biz/kristina or email her at candleladykristina@hotmail.com

Also, I want to take a moment to congratulate Kristina for receiving the "Make It Happen" award, given by the Perfect Wedding Guide. They said there is no challenge too great for Kristina, and that she has the will and the heart to make it happen! Give her a call to talk about the centerpieces and candles that she can provide for your event to make it lovely.

Hold your next event at the Chester H. Ferguson Law Center

The Chester H. Ferguson Law Center is an event center with contemporary accommodations in a traditional and sophisticated setting. I features 6 meeting rooms with a minimum capacity of 6-12 to a maximum capacity of 150. It is close to the downtown Tampa area, and I 275, has free parking, and can be the setting for elegant dinner parties, wedding receptions, banquets and other large gatherings. Their in-house caterer has an established reputation for exceptional food, creativity and presentation, combined with outstanding service. They will work with you to seamlessly blend each element of your menu with style and on budget. For further information and more detailed description of the individual banquet rooms, check their website www.hillsbar.com or you may contact Terri Schanken at 813-221-7785 or email her at teresa@hillsbar.com or Laurie Rideout at 813 221-7771 or email her at laurie@hillsbar.com

Consider this great location when you plan your event.

Limousines in Tampa Bay -Luxury Defined........

What could be more luxurious than to be wisked to and from your ceremony in an exquisite Cadillac, Stretch Limo, Mercedes Benz, or Rolls Royce??????? I would have a hard time deciding just which transportation would be the best! I am showing you photos of a beautiful vehicle, both inside and out that is owned by Ambassador Limousine and Sedan, Inc. in Clearwater, Florida. Michael DeArruda, the Wedding and Events Manager, gave me some insight about what is available. Bridal Chauffeur, concierge service, red carpet and champagne, bride's night out and bachelor parties, customized and all inclusive packages. For reservations, you can call 727-442-9050 or check it out online at www.ambassadorlimo.net

I so enjoyed speaking with Michael and learning about his business. Make sure you give him a call at 727-643-1520 to see how much luxury he can provide you with for your special event.

The Best of a Band, The Best of a DJ......all in one!!

Where can you find a great DJ, and also some live musical entertainment?? Chuck Weirich is a professional trumpeter, disc jockey and entertainer all in one! Yesterday, I heard Chuck give a demonstration of his wedding music and a variety of other songs, and it was fabulous! You will defiitely want to listen to a live music demo by Chuck and see how wonderful it would be for him to be part of your wedding ceremony and reception. He is professional, pleasant, energetic, and willing to listen to the ideas that you have for the music you would like to enjoy on your special day. You can check it out online at TampaBayDJ.com or you can call him toll free at 877-352-3571 or email him at chuck@tampabaydj.com I am sure he would love to play some music for your listening pleasure and is a great DJ for your event.

Is Your Wedding Vendor a Professional or is it a Hobby????

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of speaking at a luncheon for The Professional Wedding Guild of The Greater Bay/Tampa to Sarasota. The Hunters Green Golf and Country Club served as our host, thanks especially to the fine work of Gretchen Hill and her staff!! Gretchen is the Private Events Director and you can contact her at gretchen.hill@ourclub.com  The grounds are magnificent and the ballroom is spectacular. Have a look at their website  www.huntersgreencc.com   This monthly luncheon involves associates of a variety of wedding professionals, and I was proud to speak before them. These are the people who make YOUR day as perfect as it can be.  They put in the time and effort, and education that it takes, to provide you with the most incredible customer service possible.  It made me wonder, when you speak to your wedding vendor, do you ever ask if they are associated with any Professional Wedding Organizations?  This is very important, as there is quite a difference between professionals and those that work on weddings just for a hobby. I have seen the importance of this when I meet a variety of individuals working with couples on their weddings. I plan to feature some of the professionals that I believe you should consider. Also, I wanted to mention that there are a few upcoming bridal shows that you should attend, they are a great opportunity to comparison shop, and get many new and creative ideas.

Upcoming Bridal Shows
January 11, 2009 Hyatt Regency Hotel - Downtown Tampa
April 19, 2009 Embassy Suites at Busch Gardens - Tampa
July 12, 2009 Hyatt Regency Hoel - Downtown Tampa

If you are a bride and would like to receive a discount coupon to attend, please let me know!

North Clearwater Florida, Lori and Tim

There are so many wedding superstitions, but the one that best fit the wedding Tim and Lori recently in North Clearwater is the one that has to do

with rain! Lots of rain!!!

The couple and their family had planned a lovely beach wedding but the weather was just not going to cooperate! It is said that if it rains on your wedding day, you will be blessed with fertility and good fortune, it is also said that your marriage will be a success because you worked under pressure and faced the obstacle together! Lori and Tim sure did that! The wedding was moved into the living room of the home they had rented. It was through the quick work and cooperation of all of us, to turn the living room into a lovely area for a wedding. Alysa George of Central Florida Weddings & Events worked her magic and assembled the archway and decorated it with the flowers and laid down the petals and pulled it all together so that Lori could be escorted in by her dad, along with the sons Brayden and Bryson to meet Tim under the arch! Along with that, they had written beautiful personal vows that they shared with each other. Tim's vows began with " You have the right to remain silent........" as he is a police officer, so that was very cute! It was a beautiful, intimate, and loving ceremony, and when they shared their vows, it was so evident how much in love they are. Brandon and Bryson did a great job blending their sand together with their parents, and enjoyed their important role in the ceremony. Congratulations Tim and Lori and your beautiful family! May you have an eternity of love and happiness together.