Saturday, May 31, 2008

Hunters Green Country Club in Tampa, Congratulations Lora and Jason!

The beautiful wedding celebration of Lora and Jason took place at The Hunters Green Country Club in Tampa. Our associate Rev.Paul Gray officiated. The wedding took place otuside in a gorgeous area. This elegant wedding occasions took place in a setting of southern tradition

The wedding ceremony was held in the perfectly manicured Gazebo overlooking their lakeside golf course.


This location is certainly one that you will want to look into.Whether you are hosting a bridal luncheon, rehearsal dinner or wedding reception, Hunter's Green Country Club provides excellent service, outstanding cuisine and a professional staff. Each banquet room has it’s own unique and elegant touch. We worked with Gretchen Hill on this wedding and you can phone her with any questions that you may have.


Your guests will be well accommodated with their complimentary parking, exquisite menu selection and impeccable dining service. With 20 years experience, they understand that your event is important and we are honored that you have considered them. Their Catering staff is there to assist you in not only planning the menu of your celebration, but also with the event’s timeline and selection of dependable vendors. They want to create a magical and memorable moment for you, your family and your guests. They know that it’s the occasion you have been dreaming of and would be honored if you consider them for your special day. Let them make it a celebration that your guests will never forget!


Being able to have your ceremony onsite along with your reception is certainly something that is very important. Give Gretchen a call or have a look at their website at www.clubcorp.com


Congratulations Lora and Jason!

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

The Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport , Maine Congratulations Mary Lynn and Josh!








One of the more beautiful areas of Maine is Kennebunkport, and that is exactly where the wedding of Mary Lynn and Josh took place this past weekend! They were married in the beautiful nature filled backdrop of the ocean, in front of a lighthouse. Mary Lynn and Josh created a beautiful ceremony to express their love for each other. They selected each and every reading and prayer to make it so intimate and personal. My associate, Rev. Heather Boyd had the honor of officiating. Congratulations Mary Lynn and Josh! Pictures of the happy couple to follow!




Recently, the Nonantum Resort was voted #1 Wedding Reception location in York County and I can tell you, it is very well deserved! The location is stunning, and whether your reception is indoors or outside, it is high class! The area is also a great place for your guests as they can enjoy a ride on the trolly and shop at the quaint shops and galleries.



The Nonantum Resort is an exquisite location to lodge or dine at, in addition to special events and parties. You can view them on line at http://www.nonantumresort.com/ or call them toll free at 1-800-552-5651. If you would like to book your wedding there, just call Tim and his staff and they will handle everything to make your day go smoothly. I will add some pictures of MaryLynn and Josh soon but wanted to show you the beauty of this destination wedding site in Maine.

Bridal Fasion Has Gone To The Dogs!!!!







This morning on the today show, they featured wedding attire for dogs. It was so adorable! I loved it! I wrote in a previous blog about the importance of having your pets in your wedding if they are so special to you. They showed you how to tastefully and stylishly incorporate your pets into the wedding party. If you go to their website http://www.msnbc.com and look at the weddings section, you will get detailed instructions on how to include your pet. It tells you how to measure your pet for the correct clothing fitting, yes, that's right, just like humans, pets have body types too! If you want your pet to be a bridesmaid, you can get the fabric that matches the bridesmaids dresses and it will integrate your little one into the wedding seamlessly, AND make a serious fashion statement.

Clothing is important, but make sure that your pet knows how to walk down the aisle for itself. If not, then you should assign an escort, like the ring bearer or flower girl.



Send me some photos!!

Let me hear from you!! Did you have pets in your wedding? Send me some photos at lovingunity@gmail.com and I will be happy to post them!! Our pets are a great source of pleasure in our lives, wouldn't it be great to have them by your side on the most important day of your lives??

Visit this website www.littlelily.com for more information.

Monday, May 26, 2008

"White Lace and Promises" Dillards In Store Bridal Event

Under the direction of Donna Clous, Wedding Registry Consultant at Dillards at the Countryside Mall in Clearwater, the Bridal Show titled "White Lace and Promises" took place this past Sunday. It was a wonderful, magical, bridal showcase and we were thrilled to be part of the festivities! It gives us an opportunity to not only meet couples planning their weddings, but to meet other bridal industry professionals and learn about their passions and talents. The Bridal show gave us all an opportunity to offer our couples many resources and suppliers, and plenty of good food and specialty cakes to taste.

I am going to tell you about the vendors that participated who can provide many great services as you begin in your planning for a fabulous wedding event. If you are still seeking a vendor that is not listed here in the blog, just call me at 727 532-6186 or email me at LovingUnity@gmail.com and I will be happy to assist you.

As you start your planning process, you will want to be in touch with a wedding planner to make your planning easier. Elizabeth Sparks of Joyful Wedding Planning http://www.joyfulweddingplanning.com/ will help you to keep the joy in planning your wedding. Beth can be reached at 727-726-9747 or email her at wedding@ij.net If you decide that you want to plan your own wedding, Beth has many great resources that would be available to you.
She offers a complimentary consultation. Why not give her a call?

Location, location, location!! You will want to contact Nancy Williams of the Bon Appetit Restaurant http://www.bonappetitrestaurant.com/ or call 727-733-2151. It is exquisite waterfront dining and lodging. Not only is the dining facility beautiful, but they are affiliated with the Honeymoon Island Productions. They have wedding, catering and special events packages to suit every need. Have a look at the website at http://www.romantichoneymoonisland.com/ or call Kim at 727-736-2132. I have had the opportunity to both eat at Bob Appetit and conduct a wedding at Honeymoon Island, and I have enjoyed my association with them.

The other catering vendors that I had the pleasure to meet and enjoy the tasty delights they served were Catering by the Family by Joe Latta who can be reached at 813-228-4263. They are full production caterers are located in Tampa. Give Joe a call and he can provide you with their menu and specialties. Marilyn Chapman is the Bridal Event Coordinator for Delectables Fine Catering http://www.delectablescatering.com/ and you can reach her at info@delectablescatering.com or phone 727-781-1200. Not only is the food delicious, but you can attend a complimentary tasting on the first Saturday of Every Month, call them to RSVP. They are located in Palm Harbor. You just have to taste their baked brie!!!! Yum!

Of course, if formal wear is what you are seeking, you want to talk with Cynthia Baeso of Sacino's and Sassi Bride. Call her at 727-796-5558. She's located in Clearwater. Or you can go online to http://www.sacino.com/

I didn't get a chance to take a photo of the limo for you to see, but I did see it outside the event. Paradise Limousines of Tampa Bay has been in business since 1984 they provide uniformed chauffeurs, and they are available for a variety of transportation needs in addition to weddings. Have a look at http://www.paradistlimousines.com/ or call 1-800-729-4713. Richard "Lord Byron" Pape can be reached at lordbyron@paradiselimousines.com

Cakes and Other sweet delights were available for tasting and in particular I loved the red velvet cake with the cream cheese frosting! It's hard to resist eating all the goodies at these events. Sweet Memories with Chef Donalda & Rebecca can be reached at 727-784-9487. L'Artisan Cake Akelier by Merli and Noemi can be reached at 813-383-2316. Call them to set up a time for a tasting. Not only were the cakes so beautiful and unique, but they tasted wonderful!!!













































What would be a wedding without music?? I am trying to keep track of the most requested first dance song........what was yours?? These are in no particular order, but I wanted to list them all since they all offer different variety and styles of music entertainment.




























My love is like a red, red, rose..........


Floral Designers have so many different ways to create your dream scape. From tropical for your beach wedding, to serene for your church event, if you have a vision, they can create it. You will want to talk with Cathy Swanson of Heaven Scent at 727-934-3930. She is a wedding specialist with over 25 years of experience. email her at heavenscentfloristinc@msn.com Another contact you should make is Blake Adler of Brides & Blooms. Fresh flowers from the farms to your arms! Call her at 813-852-2052 or email her at bridesnblooms3@yahoo.com or have a look at their website http://www.bridesnblooms.com/


When it comes to photography and videography, you must have a professional if you want high quality memories of your once in a lifetime event. Here are three professionals that you will want to contact. Graham Photography, Diane Johns, 727-821-0444 http://www.grahamphotos.com/ or email photosbygraham@yahoo.com, CCS Photography, Roger Slater, http://www.ccsphotography.net/ call 727-517-5689 or email Roger at roger@ccsphotography.net. And Lena Naughton Photography Lena & Ryan at 813-447-9743 or visit their website http://www.linasphotography.com/ or email at linasphotography@yahoo.com. I was able to have a look at their work on display and also learn about their techniques and styles. Ask them if they have specials going on at this time for 2009 bookings!!








I tried to do this in order, but realized that I am now going to talk about Invitation and Designers. My handwriting is ok, but having a professional calligrapher write out your placecards, notecards, or if you would like calligraphy for any occasion, you want to call Monica Ficarrotta at 813-832-6626. She had many beautiful examples to review. An invitation designer that I met was Nancy Kipp. She has a store called Paper Players, a store celebrating the fun, interest and art of paper. They have unique invitations, stationery and greeting cards and handle custom printing and have a variety of unique gift items and artwork. Have a look at http://www.paperplayers.com/ or email Michele@paperplayers.com or call 727-734-4174.







When I conduct customized wedding ceremonies, sometimes we use the bride and groom glasses for a wine ritual. When I met Ken Haynes of Custom Woodcrafting, I was very impressed with the wood stemmed wine glasses that he creates for couples. In fact, I want him to create a chalice for me to use for my rituals! Contact him at 813-571-0469. He has a variety of unique gifts created with exotic hardwoods. All products are reflective of his own artistic interpretation in the molding and shaping of the most beautiful hardwoods. Visit his website at http://www.customwoodcrafting.net/ or email him at woodcraft5@verizon.net Another vendor you want to contact is Diana Rouse of Deelightful Deesigns. She can be reached at 813-417-8161. http://www.deelightfuldeesigns.com/ If you go on their website you will see the frequently asked questions and answers, and you will find it very helpful. Give them a call and let them work with you for all of your design needs.


For beach weddings and outside weddings, and also at times in a church or facility, you will have the need for rental items. It could be an archway, candelabra, tables, chairs, linens. Before you start shopping around, call Good Rentals of Central Florida and talk with Linda. She can be reached at 727-446-3028. They will work with you to put on a great event! http://www.goodrentalsinc.com/ or call 813-814-9350 They have been in the party business since 1959 and they have EVERYTHING to meet your needs. Stop in to their showroom to see all that they have. They are located at 301 Mears in Oldsmar just 4 miles east of the Countryside Mall. On top of the archway they had provided were flowers by Baskets & Bows by Shirley Allen. She can be reached at 727-937-5919.








Now if you are feeling all tired and stressed out with all of that planning and information, you will want to talk to Christine Rutemiller,



Independent Associate for the Health 4 Wealth Corporation. Have a look at the website at www.health4wealth.com/christine she will be able to tell you all about how to look and feel your best on your wedding day with natural products.


There are a few Bridal Publications out there, and one that is of particular note is the Tampa Bay's Premiere Bride Magazine. Judy Z judyz22@yahoo.com and her team (Kristine that's you too!) work hard to find the caliber of vendors that are professionals that will make your event go smoothly. Look for the Premiere Bride magazine when you are at the local bridal shops and other venues, or, if you can't find one, let me know, and I will make sure you get one!!! You can also go online to http://www.tampabaypremierbride.com/ for a wealth of information.


Whew! That's a lot of information, I hope that you will find it helpful. Let me know if there is a vendor that you need information about that is not listed here and I will be happy to help you!


Remember, you can always go to the Bay Area Bridal Association website, the Association of Bridal Consultants Website, and the Tampa Bay Bridal Association website to get names and information about selecting vendors for your event. HAPPY PLANNING!!!!!!!!! Let me know how your planning is coming along at lovingunity@gmail.com or call me at 727-532-6186 if I can be of assistance to you!



Please take the time to attend bridal shows, there is always new information, creative ideas, and remember that ALL of the vendors that you see there are willing to help you create a beautiful day and want to provide excellent service to you.

Here's a great tip! Hire a Wedding Planner... and here is why....



Just about every day I speak with couples who work with what can be the all time-consuming task of planning their wedding. Most times, when I meet them for the first time, they have a big binder loaded with materials, contracts and the like. There are so many choices, and making the decisions can certainly be overwhelming. If you are feeling this way, or even if you are just beginning the process, you really might want to consider getting some help. I am going to write about the event planners that I have worked with over the course of several articles, but the first person that comes to mind for me is Tammy Waterman.

I've had the privilege of working with Tammy and her wonderful staff on several weddings and am looking forward to those that we will be doing together in the coming years. Tammy is a complete professional with many years of experience and has a real gift for creating beautiful, unique and memorable wedding experiences for the couples she works with. She can create an elegant formal affair, or a beach wedding "Jimmy Buffet" style.

In my role as Wedding Minister she makes my job a complete joy, working closely with me so that the rehearsal and ceremony come off without a hitch! A real plus is that she has a great sense of humor, which is so important!

I have seen Tammy in action when flowers fell to the ground off a pillar and smashed within minutes of the start of the wedding and she quickly reassemble the flowers, and no one even was aware of what happened. She is quick and thinks on her feet!

My words don't do justice to Tammy's magic, so please take a moment to visit her website http://www.eventsbyspecialmoments.com/ so that you can see the may wonderful photos of the weddings she has planned as well as detailed information about her packages. Tammy offers many levels of service to her couples...everything from her Complete Wedding Planning package, all the way to Day-Of and A la Carte services.

If you just not sure if hiring a wedding planner s right for you, ask her about the pros and cons, it may be helpful in your decision making...but if you're considering this option at all, my best recommendation would be for you to pick up the phone and give her a call, you'll be glad that you did. You can reach Tammy at 727-343-0800. Tammy is an Accredited Bridal Consultant with the Association of Bridal Consultants.

Sunday, May 25, 2008

Hilton Bayfront St. Petersburg- Congratulations Cristina & William








Congratulations Cristina & William! Their lovely wedding took place at the Hilton Bayfont in St. Petersburg this weekend. The bride was stunning, and the groom was handsome. They were so excited they almost couldn't speak! The two ring bearers, we adorable with their two pillows and acted so grown up when the time came for them to bring forth the rings. The groom was escorted in by his parents to the music "Going to the Chapel" and the bride was escorted in by her parents to the traditional wedding march. After the ceremony, the couple danced their first dance to the song "Amazed" by Lonestar. The Music was provided for the ceremony and the reception by Rick of A Sound Production Company. They can be found at http://www.asoundproco.com/ or phone 352-688-7432, He has packages customized for your budget, he is an interactive disc jockey and can provide lighting, audiovisual, and stage effects. Photography for the event was provided by Kelly Moore, of Brandon and she can be reached at Kelly Moore Photography, kmoore@ij.net I will be posting some photos from her shortly. I was very impressed by the level of professionalism by Lori Santos, Catering Sales Manager of the Hilton. She was right on top of things and kept things going! She was also very pleasant to work with. Since it was the first wedding I had performed at that location, Lori was very helpful in telling me about the venue and showing me around. The venue is a lovely location for either a small or large wedding. Lori can be reached at 727-825-7013 or lori.santos@hilton.com




The wedding cake was provided by the wonderful bakers at Publix. Don't ever overlook Publix in your quest to find a great wedding cake, grooms cake, or any event cake. I have seen them at wedding expos and they have some fantastic looking and tasting cakes at very affordable prices.




Congratulations Cristina and William! All our best wishes.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

St. Petersburg Womens Club - Intimate Garden Wedding - Michelle & Dan













The St. Petersburg Women's Club, 22 Snell Isle Blvd. NE in St. Petersburg was the perfect setting for the intimate garden wedding ceremony of Michelle and Dan. The outside gardens were blooming, and they shared their vows under the archway with a beautiful backdrop. The St. Petersburg Women's Club is a beautiful setting that allows you to have your wedding outside, a cocktail reception area inside, and the reception area. There is also a "get ready" area for both the bride and groom. It was the first wedding I had performed there and I was very impressed.
The bride was escorted in to meet her groom to beautiful harp music. Meredith Coffman was the harpist. Meredith can be reached through http://www.mcharper.net/ or phone her at 813-854-4277. The DJ was Woody Luke of Luke Entertainment and they are at http://www.lukeentertainment.com/ or call him at 813-545-6363. Woody provided "Crash" by Dave Matthews for the first song for the couple to dance to. Flowers were provided by Thai-Rific http://www.thairificorchids.com/ or you can call 727-321-2732 The photographer for the wedding was Fritz of Good Memories by Fritz, and the picture of the couple in this blog was provided by Fritz. He can be reached at http://www.memoriesbyfritz.com or you can call him a
727-724-6363 or 813-310-7537
The delicate Pink wedding cake was created by Cakes By Carolyn at http://www.cakesbycarolynn.com or their phone at 727 327-5725. The catering done by Amici's Catered Cuisine. Diana Johnston and the staff of Amici's set up a beautiful display, which blended with the theme color of pink. Amici's can be found on the web at http://www.amiciscatering.com/ or their phone at 727-447-1600.

This is a fabulous venue for your wedding, it is a pleasure to also provide you with information about the vendors that helped to make such a beautiful wedding day for Michelle and Dan. Congratulations!

Kimberly and Reza's Wedding

Kimberly and Dr. Reza read their vows from a message in a bottle at the seashore of the St. Pete Beach last weekend. It was a very moving expression of their love as they read their personal words to each other. Little Kiernan helped mom when it came time for the blended sand ceremony. In addition, at the end of the ceremony, Reza and Kimberly placed loveletters they had written to each other into a locked chest, along with a bottle of wine and wine glasses. When they are preparing for the ceremony, I ask them to write their thoughts about each other that brought them to their wedding day, and seal them without showing the other. It is to be opened at some future time, a silver wedding anniversary perhaps! The music for their beach wedding was lovely.


The day was beautiful, the flower girls did a great job, and the reception was held at the Silver Sands Condominimum Clubhouse. We wish you all the best!

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