Stan & Samantha (Lynnwood, WA)

I've said this time and time again, each couple has their own story and memories. Stan and Samantha (also known as Sam) are no exception!

It seems like the talk of the town has been our record breaking snow fall. Stan and Sam married just this last Sunday, December 21st amidst the snow. You couldn't tell from the smiles on their faces how cold it really was outside or how much snow was accumulating on the ground because inside it was warm! The excitement on wedding day, the enthusiasm that this couple has, the friendly family and friends in attendance and of course the Christmas trees and decorations that lined the halls also attributed to this feeling.

Stan and Sam are such a wonderful couple -- you can't help but smile when you're around them! All throughout the day, family members and their friends shared with me how happy they were that "this day is here!" and "how they are just so right for each other" as well as personal stories that I had the chance to hear about. And you know, they were so right!


The ceremony and reception were held at the Lynnwood Convention Center (www.lynnwoodcc.com). The staff there was fantastic and quick to be of assistance. I was greeted with Stan & Sam's names on the reader board outside which was fun! It was easy to access from the freeway and parking was ample. Another great idea to consider for a great wedding venue.

Party Favor Idea #1: Custom Fortune Cookies

My job as an officiant sometimes crosses over into other duties, such as offering suggestions to couples who come to me with questions and in search of ideas. I am asked if I know of different vendors such as a caterer, a musician or items to decorate or feature at their reception. Often, people assume that as an officiant, I attend a lot of receptions. This isn't true, much to popular belief. On occasion, an invite is extended to me to stay to enjoy a meal with the bride and groom's family and friends.

I worked with two different couples this summer, who I found out after they had booked me, knew each other. Tyler & Ashley of Edmonds, WA and Lisa & Bill of Kingston, WA were planning on having their wedding in the same location.....in Tyler & Lisa's grandmother's backyard. (I found out that Tyler and Lisa were cousins -- small world!) An invite was extended to me to stay for both receptions.

Tyler and Ashley married in August; Lisa & Bill in September just a few weeks later. Both sets of couples had these great party favors for their guests -- made to order, custom fortune cookies by Linda & Mike's Fortune Cookies! These are not your typcial, small, run-of-the-mill fortune cookies that you get at your local Chinese food restaurant. These yummy cookies are a larger, more decorative version complete with a message of your choice found inside each cookie.

I took home a business card to find more information about these unique party favors. I found that they are very affordable and are high quality little goodies. Here's their website if you'd like to check them out for your celebration:

www.LMfortunecookies.com


"Good Luck!"

~ Rev. Tiffani

Vendor Review: Bagpiper Don

Don Scoby (also known as Bagpiper Don) is a very talented musician. He plays the Highland Bagpipes and is an up and coming Seattle star!

I first met Don about a year ago. I've always been a fan of bagpipes and through Don, I've been able to learn that the term "bagpipes" is a very loose term. Did you know that there are all different types? I didn't! Don also is an instructor, so if you are interested in learning more or have always visualized yourself playing and tooting your horn look no further!

I've listened to Don's music on his myspace page (http://www.myspace.com/bagpiperdon). I have a few personal favorites, including "Blackbird Air-reel", "Battle of Waterloo", and my #1 pick is "Remi Rawks CPNW"! The sounds are so beautiful; the music makes me envision green pastures, Celtic women and of course, the infamous kilt. Speaking of kilts, Don will show up to your event in full garb. It's great!

Personality-wise, Don is warm, friendly and professional. Standing 6'4" he carries into a room a strong presence. He's confident in what he does without being cocky. He's very easy to talk with as well as easy to work with. Don is open to answering any questions you might have and, from experience, no question is a bad question.

I'm far from a music critic and my words can't begin to describe the talent that this man has.
Don has a wealth of information on his website; please visit him at http://www.bagpiperdon.com to listen to samples of his work.