Milatary wedding

A cozy, romantic ride.

A ittle bit of "Aviator Attitude"!!!!

What do you get when you have a groom and five groomsmen who are all Air Force pilots? A wonderful, fun wedding and reception.

This wedding took place in the Pinnacle Club, 38 floors above Denver. This property is the only one of it's kind in the Denver area. You have almost a 360 degree view of Denver and the Rocky Mountains. You can see from Pikes Peak to Longs Peak.

We started this wedding at sunset so the guests enjoyed the sunset and the lights of Denver.

This venue books up quickly. It's operated by the Grand Hyatt in Downtown Denver. You'll be able to see more pictures from this wedding, in the next couple of weeks at www.weddingsbytanya.com.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Well, it's hard to believe we are only two days away from Christmas! I'd like to thank everyone who helped make this such a fantastic year. I had the opportunity to work with many wonderful people from all over the world.

If you are getting engaged or are newly engaged remember:
1- Get a copy of my book, WEDDING PLANNING GUIDE, A Bride's Workbook(c)
2-Book your vendors now
3-Enjoy your engagement
4- Remember I travel so it doesn't matter where you live or where you want to get married!
5- Check out www.weddingsbytanya.com for lots of wedding planning information

Wishing you all a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and a FANTASTIC 2010!

'Tis the Season - Start planning!

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY HOLIDAYS to everyone! This has been a very interesting year for most of us!

Having had the opportunity to visit both the Philippine Islands and the Mexican Riviera in one year was a highlight for me. Due to these trips, I'm now ready to assist all you brides, who are looking at destination weddings, plan your weddings.

This doesn't mean that you necessarily have to do your destination weddings at these locations, but anywhere in the world. I go about the planning process the same way I would if you were getting married locally. By the way, Colorado is a beautiful place for destination weddings as well!

Imagine having your wedding on a roof top in Cancun or in this beautiful gazebo that over looks the Caribbean Ocean! Having a buffet with the centerpiece roses made from veggies? If having a Christmas time wedding, get original and have your cake made in the shape of a ginger-bread house.

Destination weddings can not only be romantic for just the two of you, but a wonderful experience for your family and friends.

It's been my experience that the resorts, hotels etc are very capable and eager to help make your day special. Of course, having your local coordinator as the main contact, can make everything much easier and you'll be assured that on your wedding day, you have no worries!

Get your vendors booked now! If you wait to long, you are going to miss out on the ones you want to be part of the team.

Do take time to enjoy the holidays, no matter how you celebrate. Give thanks for all you've been given this year.

Again, wishing you all Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Holidays!

Weddings, Etc. LLC new Colorado wedding website

It's finally finished and live! My new, updated website, www.weddingsbytanya.com. I have to thank the talents of Ash Fox for the beautiful job he did!

You'll find not only information about Weddings, Etc. LLC, but also information that will be helpful as you work on your own wedding. New are the contacts to purchase your invitations at a 10% discount!

I'll be adding more pictures for destination wedding venues in the Cancun, Mexico area after my trip there in December. I'm looking forward to doing more destination weddings in 2010. Not only here in Colorado, but I'm now familiar with the Philippine Islands, Hawaii, Europe, and soon will be adding Mexico to the list. Don't let this stop you, however. If you want to do a destination wedding, I can guarantee that I will know the area inside and out by the time of your wedding!

As this year comes to a close, we all have so much to be thankful for. So, I'm wishing you all a VERY HAPPY THANKSGIVING.

If you get engaged during this holiday time, let www.weddingbytanya.com be your first stop!

Spectacular Colorado Wedding Mountain Venue

I had the opportunity to experience what brides, who do Colorado Weddings in Beaver Creek can experience.

We stayed one night at the Park Hyatt. During this stay, we enjoyed a wonderful massage in the Allegria Spa, had dinner and breakfast in 8100 - The brand new Mountain Side Bar and Grill, slept in the most comfortable room, and had a spectacular view of the center of the Village of Beaver Creek and the mountains.

The Park Hyatt is a ski-in, ski-out property, however, they are year around. They have done outstanding renovations, building out the patio, changing the Antler Bar (which used to be in the lobby area) to the 8100 Mountainside Bar and Grill. The plus side of this, is it stays open much longer!

The patio, located at the foot of the mountain, is a perfect place for your wedding ceremony and cocktails before going inside for your mouth-watering reception dinner.

Chef Reese Hay, Chef de Cuisine of 8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill, is one of the most talented chefs I've had the opportunity to meet and taste what he can do! Because of his work, the Park Hyatt was listed in the Esquire Magazine as one of the MUST DINE IN restaurants in the country! Another big plus for this Chef is that he utilizes as much local fresh produce and ingredients, including meats etc. as possible. I also must add that the outstanding staff in 8100 as in all the hotel, is friendly and eager to do everything to make your stay pleasant and memorable.

Whether you are planning an elegant wedding for 100 or a small, casual wedding for 20, check out the Park Hyatt. Peach Duty, the Senior Catering Sales Manager, will do everything to make your stay special for you and your guests. You can see the property at www.parkhyattbeavercreek.com, or contact Peach at peach.duty@hyatt.com 970-827-6522, or you can contact me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com 303-779-0395 for more information. www.weddingsbytanya.com .
This would also be the perfect resort for a Planned Elopement.

Video or no video?

The question comes up, especially in these economic times, do you want a video or even have the budget for one?

Well, I'll tell you I've heard brides say they wished they had done one, but never have I heard a bride say she was sorry.

Some things to keep in mind when deciding:
1) If you have aging grandparents or parents, they won't always be around and it will be nice to go back and see and hear them talk and laugh.
2) While you won't watch it that often, when there's tough times, it's nice to listen to those all important vows you made to each other.
3) Your children will enjoy seeing their dad with hair.
4) Your attendants may not always be around but this keeps every one close to you.
5) Your children may want to incorporate some of your ceremony/reception into theirs when they get married.

If you don't have the budget to video the whole wedding, consider at least having the ceremony taped. Video goes hand in had with photography. There's lots to be said for being able to hear the music, vows and comments.

There's lots of good videographers out there in all price ranges. If you find someone you'd really like to work with, give them your budget and ask if they can work with it. It's been my experience that the videographer will probably want to work with you as much as you'd like them to video your special day. Just ask!

I'm off tomorrow to Breckenridge, Colorado for two days of visiting venues and vendors for an October wedding next year, with a bride and groom. I still have some good dates available, but remember I limit the number I do in a year! Contact me through www.weddingsbytanya.com or email tanya@weddingsbytanya.com with any questions or to arrange a visit.

Virginia wedding

I've talked about the beautiful venue in Virgia, Silverbrook Farm. Here's some pictures from this venue. You can't go wrong with this beautiful place!

New Venue in Colorado

I had the opportunity, yesterday, to view and enjoy a fantastic lunch at a brand new venue being built in the Parker, Colorado area.

Colorado Golf Club will definately be for the descerning bride. It has a wonderful Colorado feel, but is very elegant at the same time. The backdrop for ceremonies is a non-obstructed view of the mountains. On a clear day, you'll be able to see Pikes Peak to Longs Peak.

This Club is a private club, but will have some dates available for weddings. Included in the wedding package is a two night stay (night before the wedding, and wedding night) of a charming four-bedroom cottage. There's also possibility of golf and access to other amenities that members have.

The food, under the direction of Chef Bob Burden is something you'll be happy to write home about!

While the facility won't be available until May 2010, they are doing showings and taking reservations. If you are dreaming of an elegant, Colorado wedding, then this is a must see!
www.ColoradoGolfClub.com or contact me for details. tanya@weddingsbytanya.com or www.weddingsbytanya.com.

Giving Back

As we all know, especially in the times we live in, it's very important to give back and share with those less fortunate than ourselves.

For this reason, I've decided to make a donation to the Breast Cancer National Research of $100, for each Full or Partial Wedding Package contracted; $50 for each Day Of Service; and $25 from each elopement package.

The charities will be changed on a monthly basis:
October - Breast Cancer Research
November - Food Bank of the Rockies/Rescue Mission
December - Toys for Tots
January - Alzheimer's Association
February - Heart Association
March - Boys' and Girls' Club
April - The Gathering Place
May - Denver Dumb Friends League
June - Wheelchair Foundation
July - Meals on Wheels
August - School Supplies
September - Habitat for Humanity

While many of these charities are located in Colorado, if you hire me, and you live outside of Colorado, then the donation will be made to one that is local to you.

It's time we all make a difference, a little bit at a time!

To learn about my services, go to www.weddingsbytanya.com or email me at Tanya@weddingsbytanya.com .

Groom's Shower

A groom's shower? Why not? Should brides have all the fun?
If you are looking for something new and different to do for the bachelor party, why not a groom's shower? While he may not need new "undies", he will be setting up a new home and can probably use help in: stocking the bar; filling the tool room; gardening tools; creating a game room.

There's a brand new hotel in Black Hawk, Colorado that has a full spa, roof-top pool, a large ball room, six restaurants, not to mention all the gaming and fun of Las Vegas, but in the beautiful mountains of Colorado. How about a destination bachelor party to Colorado? Take in the ambiance of the old mining towns while enjoying 24 hr. gaming. There are nice, affordable hotel rooms available as well.

Give your best friend a pre-wedding party he'll always remember! I'll be happy to work with you on setting up a fun and safe groom's shower! It doesn't have to be in the gambling towns, but can be anywhere in the city! Give me a call and let's work together to give this special man, a special night with his special friends! www.weddingsbytanya.com tanya@weddingsbytanya.com

Destination Weddings

I just returned home from a destination wedding to the Ashburn, VA area. The wedding was held at Silverbrook Farm, which is something right out of the magazines you look at and think you'll never see! The farmhouse was built in the late 1700's and the owner, Dottie Shetterly not only lives there, but has two charming bedrooms that she rents out on occasion as a B&B. The rolling hills, cattle - along with the white chaperon goat, in the pasture made for the most scenic of backdrops. As the sun set to the west, there was a full moon that made it's way up into a clear sky from the East. It couldn't have been more perfect if it has been scripted!

We had a tent set up for the reception and a smaller one for the buffet. The flowers were magnificent, done in fall colors. The food was wonderful and the service outstanding. If you are looking for a wonderful caterer, check out www.Shirleycatering.com. Shirley is one of the most efficient and accommodating caterers I've worked with.

For your make up give Angela Perez at www.Wildflowermakeup.com 571-235-5840 a call. She'll come to is, is reasonably priced and great to work with.

I'm hoping to soon have pictures, provided by the photographer, Tracy Sanders Photography, that I can post.

These are just a few of the vendors I worked with, but I'll be happy to provide vendor contact information to anyone looking for great vendors in the Leesburg area. Contact me through www.weddingsbytanya.com. I'm also available to travel to set up and coordinator your wedding in Virginia, Georgia or anywhere else you might decide to get married.

Which bring up another issues. How do you work with a long distance coordinator? I'm located in Colorado doing a wedding in Virginia. How do I handle this? First, I find out if my client has vendors selected or if they need help doing this then I get to work. I start by researching the vendors to be sure they are professionals and up to the task. I ask for references and check them out! (This is a must for all long distance planning.) The bride should also do this! I talk to other vendors in the area to get referrals as well. If possible, I like to make at least one trip to the location to meet with the vendors, visit the venue so I'm well appraised on what to expect.

It takes a larger time investment, but well worth it. I try to arrive three days early so I can go over everything with the client as well as the vendors and leave nothing to chance. I've even learned how to pack the essentials from my emergency kit so the bride doesn't have to worry about these things.

I work with many clients from out of state or country so whether planning a Colorado wedding, or planning a destination wedding away from my home state isn't a problem. For more information, visit www.weddingsbytanya.com.

Until next time, enjoy the changing colors of the fall!

It's Fall!

Can you believe it, September is almost over and thoughts turn to Halloween and soon Christmas?

Time passes so quickly. I can hardly believe that I leave on Tuesday for Virginia to do a wedding this coming week-end! I'm so excited about the wedding, of course, but also to experience the colors of the East.

Bookings are starting to come in for 2010, so just a quick reminder, don't miss out on the coordinator you'd like to work with! The most popular venues are quickly snatched up as are the prime dates. Colorado wedding planning is what I specialize in, however, I'm happy to do destination weddings, too!

If there's any brides in the Ashburn, Virginia or DC area, who's interested in finding out more about a Colorado wedding, please let me know and I'll make some time to meet with you while I'm there.

Take care and HAPPY FALL!!!

Destination Weddings/Become a wedding/event coordinator

I have the honor of doing a wedding in Ashburn, VA the first of October. If any brides are out there that are interested or planning a wedding in Colorado or destination wedding anywhere else, I'd be happy to meet with you. I will be available on Sept 30 -Oct 1,2,4 to meet with you. Just send me an email or call me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com or 303-779-0395 to set up a time to meet.

Fall is the time when many people start thinking about a new career. Weddings, Etc. LLC offers the Art of Wedding Coordination either as a one to one course or correspondence course. Be ready in six months to step out your own as a wedding/event planner. What sets out course apart from the others, is the personal attention and mentoring we give to each student. For more information see www.weddingsbytanya.com or email mail me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com.

SEPTEMBER IN COLORADO

Can you believe it's September already? Started your Christmas Shopping yet?

If you know someone who is getting engaged and want to give them a headstart, consider WEDDING PLANNING GUIDE, A Bride's Workbook (c). You can see a sample of this workbook and order it from www.weddingsbytanya.com.

Whether you are having 18 or 500 guests, having a coordinator will assure you of enjoying your day. There's a much planning that goes into a small wedding as there is a large one. Paying for a wedding coordinator for your daughter or future daughter-in-law is one of the nicest gifts (engagement or shower) you can give. It's also very thoughtful as well as it will allow you, the moms, to enjoy the day as well!

I had the opportunity to visit a new all-purpose venue yesterday. It's Highline Circle of Life Center, located just off 120th and I-25 north of Denver. Don't shy away from it as it is a funeral home as well, but is built in a way that you don't get that feel when you are in it. They have a chapel for ceremonies which lends itself to any type of decor you'd care to put in it. Outside, currently, is one of the most beautiful tents I've seen! They are, however, going to build a permanent structure for receptions. They can comfortably handle up to 150, however, I'd be more comfortable with 100-125. The owners are very friendly and anxious to please. The facility has a fabulous organ, which Andrea (one of the owners) can play, or they have a state of the art AV system and can play videos as well as CDs. Your choice. You can use their caterer or bring in your own. They have a bride's dressing room as well. Plenty of parking and the price includes the chapel and reception. Check out Highline Circle of Life Center in Thornton, CO.
You can also call 303-452-2525 for additional information on this venue. This chapel is also available for elopements for a minimal charge.

I'm already booking for 2010 and 2011 so don't lose your date! Remember we do only a limited number of weddings a year. Give me a call to arrange an appointment to meet and see how I can help make your day special. I'm available to go anywhere in or out of Colorado to do your wedding.

I'll be in Ashburn, VA the end of the month to do a wedding. Any Virginia brides who would like to visit with me, I'll be happy to make the time to do so. Give me a call at 303-779-0395 or email me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com.

Wedding Dresses available

It makes me very sad to learn of people, like the bridal salon owner in Northern Colorado, who takes advantage of brides. Unfortunately, there are those people, but the major number of wedding vendors are honest and professionals.

My heart hurts for the brides who are left without their dresses or money to purchase a new one. I wish I could replace each of the dresses.

I do have my daughter's wedding dress, that I'd be happy to give to one of the brides. It does need alterations as it has puffy sleeves, and Victorian neckline. However, in the right hands, it could be altered to be a beautiful new dress. It has a chapel train and veil. It's probably about a size 10 (wedding dress measurements). My daughter is a size 4.

I also have a beautiful, strapless, white satin dress that would be a beautiful wedding dress. Either plain or it could be embellished. It's probably a size 6-8. Great for a destination wedding.

If any of you brides see this, and would be interested in either of these dresses, please give me a call or email me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com.

There's no excuse for people to take advantage of brides just because it's a wedding! Fortunately, the vendors I recommend to my clients are professionals and treat clients fairly. This is another reason to use a wedding coordinator, if for no other reason than to help find quality vendors.

The complete bridal look

Have you ever wondered how all those celebrity weddings look so put together? Well, I'm going to let you in on the secret! They use an Image Expert, and guess what?!? I've found one locally, or she found me...anyway, I'm so excited to share this.

Keri Blair at www.keriblair.com is an Image Expert. What does this have to do with weddings? Keri will do an initial appointment with you to learn all about your tastes, what your idea for your wedding dress is then go to work and find it. She saves you, the bride, many hours of searching by doing it for you then going with you to try on dresses she's pre-selected. Not only does she do the bride's dress, but will also recommend styles etc. for the entire wedding party, yes, men included, flower girls, MOB and MOG too. She will help select the perfect dress and accessories, right down to the shoes. Her goal is to make sure the entire wedding party looks like they belong together.

By utilizing her services, when your wedding party processes down the aisle, you will look totally put together.

Keri works hand in hand with me as a coordinator, as she helps you with attire, while I still am there to help you with everything else. I'm still happy to go with you when you try dresses.

As for her charges, she will work with each bride individually either on a consulting basis or put together a package for you. This way, she can be as objective, as I am, when it comes to the dress shopping. She utilizes all the shops and works hard to find your dream dress.

Check out her website www.keriblair.com or email her at keri@keriblair.com or 303-575-1606. She works with clients all over the country and can do a lot via the internet.

Don't forget that you still need a coordinator! Give me a call at 303-779-0395 or email me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com. My dates are starting to fill for next year and as a reminder, I limit the number of weddings I do.

Stay cool and enjoy the rest of July!

Bartering for Wedding Venue

What bride and groom doesn't want to have the perfect venue for their wedding day? How many venues have you looked at only to learn that it will cost most of your budget! I've just learned that Wild Basin Lodge in Estes Park is more than willing to barter with couples! What a concept. Just think, you can have your wedding at one of the top, romantic, secluded, romantic spots for bartering!

Wild Basin Lodge has won numerous awards including the Knot's top award for venues. Estes Park is only a little over an hour drive from Denver, a charming village with lots of shopping, horseback riding, fishing, hiking and the gateway to the Rocky Mountain National Park.

This venue can handle from 2 to 200 guests. There's some beautiful places along the creek if you'd like to do a planned elopement!

Check them out at www.wildbasinlodge.com or contact me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com for more information.

2010 Weddings - Start Your Planning!!!

It's hard to believe that it's July already! School will be starting in about 6 weeks in some areas.

Brides are planning their 2010 weddings. It's not to soon to start booking your vendors to be sure you have the team together you want. To have a successful event you need to have a great team. How do you assemble this team?

1) Start with a good wedding coordinator (We have the information that will help make your selection process much easier.)
2) Define what is most important to you. This is where you want to channel more of your budget.
3) Start meeting with the vendors. Try to limit yourself to three in each category as it will make your interview process much more manageable.
4) Once you've made your decision, get your contract signed, then you can start working on the details.
5) Allow your coordinator to do the job you've hired them to do. This makes your planning go much smoother, and you will enjoy it more. This doesn't mean they should take over! It's still your wedding.
6) Sit back on your wedding day and just enjoy the moment!

If you are dreaming of a mountain resort wedding, this is the time to book. Don't rule out some of the beautiful ranches. You can do anything from a casual to elaborate wedding at these. Some offer cabins for extended stays, some are very exclusive. If coming to Colorado for a destination wedding, these can offer a truly Colorado experience from a mountain backdrop to Colorado wines.

Need more information about wedding planning? Contact me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com. I'm happy to travel to you anywhere in the world, or help you plan locally!

Wedding dress sale

The bridal shop Blue is having their spring sale. Wedding dresses are 20% off! If you're still looking for your dress check them out.

Blue

500 16TH ST #264

DENVER PAVILIONS

303.446.2583
WWW.BLUEGOWNS.COM

Many couples are now planning for 2010. This is a great time to start booking your vendors now so you have the choice of the cream of the crop! Don't forget your wedding coordinator! In these times a good coordinator can save you tons of time in helping to put together the right team for your wedding.

Wishing you a great June! Check out my website for more information from selecting your attendants to setting your budget.

Romantic wedding site

This past Friday, I spent the night at the Timberline Condominiums in Snowmass, Colorado. Snowmass is located about 12 miles north of Aspen. It is off the beaten path and on top of a hill, right next to the ski lift.

When you go outside all you hear is nature. It was so quiet and peaceful. The Timberline Condos are made up of condos so each is different. Each unit is well decorated and very comfortable. They have units ranging from one bedroom to three bedrooms. For someone who wants to fix their own meals etc. each has a kitchen, fully equipped.

There's a large patio that can accommodate 250 people for a wedding/reception, or if you prefer an intimate Planned Elopement, there's many places along the river, up the hill etc. that your ceremony can take place. Check it out at www.thetimberline.com.

I'm also happy to announce that I'm the National Rep. for Scottish Kilt Pins, Crosses and Celtic Crosses, all made from Pure Scottish Silver (925). Each piece is unique and handcrafted. Each is Hallmarked Sterling Silver and draws a design influence from an early Scots Celtic Cross. Each item is hallmarked depicting quality, strength and durability with a quality and sentient that will last a lifetime. These will make keepsake gifts for your attendants, family, bride or groom. A must for every Scottish bride and groom! For more information, contact me at www.weddingsbytanya.com. This company can also do custom jewelry in silver or gold. If you have a family gem, they can create the perfect piece of jewelry for both men and women. (Pictures will be forthcoming.)

Unusual wedding site

Yesterday I had the opportunity to take a ride on the Georgetown Loop. If you haven't experienced this train ride, it's a must do on your list! The trip we took was 2.5 hours as we also took the mine tour, which is well worth the price.

There are several beautiful locations for weddings and receptions. They are now offering a dining experience in the evenings.

Imagine being on an old Victorian era train, riding through the pines with the blue sky above and the creek below. Stopping on a 75' bridge to have your ceremony then having champagne served as you chug your way to your reception. You could even go the next step and dress the part, have your guests in Victorian costume, decorate the train, etc.

This is the perfect venue for an elopement as well as they are willing to stop the train for the ceremony. There are so many possibilities where a ceremony could take place.

If you are into history, this is an idea you must investigate! Contact me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com for more information. Check out their website at www.georgetownlooprr.com.

Have

Asian/Hindi wedding and traditions

I'm working on a Hindi wedding. This has been a very interesting experince for me as there is so much tradition. It's going to be beautiful and very colorful. I love working with different cultures and learning about their various ways and traditions and would welcome the opportunity to work with more Asian cultures.

To me, when planning a wedding, it's important to include traditions. Ask your parents and grandparents what they did and see if there's a way you can incorporate something from their weddings into yours. As a surprise consider having the song that was your parents first dance played.

Another thought is to copy the bouquet your mother carried, perhaps incorporating some of the same flowers in your own bouquet.

Ask if your mother or grandmother has a special set of candle holders then use them for your unity candle ceremony. It doesn't matter if they are colored, in the form of elephants etc. if they have special meaning for you, use them.

As you think through your wedding plans, think of things that your children can carry forward as well. Have your cake knife engraved. It will make it an heirloom to pass along.

If you're looking for a different, romantic, affordable destination wedding site, contact me about venues in the Philippine Islands.

Happy planning! Remember, I'm avilable to travel to anywhere in the world to assist you with your wedding. I'm just a call or email away. tanya@weddingsbytanya.com or www.weddingsbytanya.com.

HAPPY MAY DAY!

Can you believe it' May already? Wedding season is getting ready to burst forth just like the flowers!

The economy is easing a bit, but still has couples worrying about their weddings and how to have the one they want for the budget they have available.

One of the best ways to keep in check is to hire a good wedding coordinator. I can't emphasize how important this is as we know the vendors who will do the best job for them within their budget. One of the big ways we save you money is in time. Let us make the inital calls to pre-qualfy vendors for you.

A possible thought is to do a Planned Elopement. There is no reason that an elopement needs to be just to Vegas anymore. I can help you plan anywhere you'd like to go, including the Philippine Islands and be there if you'd like. A Planned Elopement can be a elaborate as you'd like. It can include flowers, photography, videography, special dinner arrangements, wedding cake and just about anything else you'd like included. I take care of all the arrangements and can preform the ceremony.

Destination weddings are a great way to save money as it limits the number of guests who will attend.

Don't spend your valuable time researching venues and vendors. Give me a call or email for more information on how I can help you. I'm happy to travel outside of Colorado should you care to hire someone who hasn't worked with all your friends and can give you a fresh take on planning your wedding. I currently have a few dates available for 2009 and am booking into 2010 on a limited basis.

I'm currently working on a traditional Hindi wedding so those of you who are going to have an Indian/Asian wedding, I do have first hand knowledge of the traditions and can help make your day special. Denver is a beautiful place for your wedding.

Check out http://www.weddingsbytanya.com/ or tanya@weddingsbytanya.com for information.

A Planned Elopement in Vail, Colorado

True Story from Cathy Mettenbrink on Vimeo.

Last Wednesday, at the Arrabelle Resort in Vail, I performed the wedding ceremony for this lovely couple. They hadn't told anyone what they had planned when coming to Colorado. We worked with the 1321 Studios - Jeff Siebert, to put together a video that they could have ready the next day to make their big announcement.

Planned Elopements can be very romantic and full of fun and wonder. Both Colorado and the Philippine Islands offer many beautiful and unique venues and places to get married and have a life of memories.

Give me a call with any questions regarding wedding planning or elopements! I still have a few dates available for 2009 and am booking 2010.

New dress designer

Hello everyone!

I had the opportunity to attend the "roll out" of a brand new wedding dress line. The designer is Alisa Benay. She is a local, Colorado designer, who has designed and is now offering a beautiful and different Bridal Couture Line. Not only does she offer a regular line, but each year she will have a limited edition dress, that part of the proceeds will be donated to benefit the Susan G. Komen Society. Her dresses range from around $2500 - 8500.

She utilizes unusual, European laces etc. to enhance the designs. The only shop, in Colorado, to carry her designs, is Little White Dress in Castle Rock. Call 303-814-8972 for your appointment. You can see some of these dresses on wwwlwdbridal.com. These dresses are sure to become family heirlooms! (Be sure to tell Cate you learned about this from Weddings, Etc. LLC! No, I don't receive anything from it, just the knowledge that you've selected on beautiful bridal shop to do business with!)

I still have some dates available if you are looking to get married this year. I can easily pull your wedding together in as little as six months. Give me a call at 303-779-0395 or check out my website www.weddingsbytanya.com .

Destination Philippine Islands

Did you know there are 7,107 islands that make up the Philippine Islands?

I didn't until I had the opportunity to visit many of the beautiful venues that would love to host destination weddings. Whether you'd like to get married in a resort in the middle of Manila or on the China Sea white sand shore, there's a venue for you.

The hotels and resorts are 4 and 5 star rated, the food delicious and the service over and above expectations. Where else can you find a handful of Calla lilies for $1??? You can easily do a wedding for 150 guests there in one of the top hotels for less than $10,000, so you can imagine the cost for the two of you or a small group.

All-be-it it's a long flight, but you sleep most of the way and the airlines feeds you really well! Also, you don't have to pay for your beverages.

There is tight security at every turn, but nothing to be afraid of if you don't get off the beaten path. While I was there, we toured all over Manila and one of the most memorable places, for me, was the American War Memorial. It's the largest military cemetery outside the US. There are still around 35,000 soldiers unaccounted for and each name is engraved in a large marble wall.

The Philippine people are extremely polite and friendly and they know how to throw a party!
If you are looking for an exotic place for your wedding, where none of your friends have gotten married, check out the Philippine Islands. It's even possible to have a designer make your dress in the range of $900 - 1500. These dresses are beautiful and can have a lot of hand beading done. They just need your measurements and ideas of what you'd like to have.

Guys, if you're looking for a beautiful gift for your bride, this is the place to buy the natural south sea pearls in almost any color you want and very reasonable!

I had the opportunity to make many contacts there and am more than happy to assist you with your planning and being on site for your wedding. For pictures and more information please contact me at 303-779-0395 or www.weddingsbytanya.com.

Fabulous New Venue

I've just discovered a fabulous, exclusive venue for weddings. It is available on a very limited basis during the month of September. Located in the Colorado Rocky Mountins, tucked away in the Gunnison National Forest, is Smith Fork Ranch. www.smithforkranch.com.

For the first time, they are opening up for weddings. They are well know internationally, as one of the finest dude ranches for family vacations.

Offering everything that your wedding guests would enjoy, you can plan a week-end destination wedding, knowing it will leave a lasting memory with everyone. They offer pretty much an inclusive package as far as the lodging for up to 30 guests, ranch activities, and meals. For the rest of what you'll want to make your wedding complete, they leave up to you to arrange.

For more information or to check availability, call 970-921-3454 or contact them through their website.

I can also assist with your planning process as I'm available to travel. Contact me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com or www.weddingsbytanya.com to see about this as a destination wedding or various other ranches in the Colorado area.

Destination Weddings

I just had to share with you all about an opportunity that has presented itself.

In about five weeks, I'll be one of 20 wedding coordinators, who have been invited to visit the Philippines. This is through an organization that is International so I feel very privelaged to have been chosen to go.

During this time, I will learn about the destination spots there as well as garner information on Asian weddings. I'm currently working on a traditional Indian-Hindu wedding to be held in July.

I've had experience in the past working with a couple where we did a nine course Chinese dinner and tea ceremony for the rehearsal then had the traditional Western wedding the next day.

Asian weddings are beautiful as well as challenging since there are so many facets to them. The colors are fabulous and a photographer's dream!

I'll share more about what I learn in Feb. upon returning from this tour. In the meantime, if you are looking for someone to coordinate an Asian themed wedding, give me a call. I'd love to work with you! www.weddingsbytanya.com tanya@weddingsbytanya.com

Wedding Coordinators - What to look for

It's come to my attention, that many brides have no idea what they should ask or look for when interviewing potential wedding coordinators.

I'd like to give you some ideas. First, one doesn't have to be "certified" to be a wedding coordinator. While there are many good courses, some choose not to take them, and can still be good coordinators. However, if someone has taken the time and spent the money, to become a wedding/event coordinator, you will know they are serious about their chosen career.

How long have they been coordinating weddings? How many do they do a week? Will the person you talk with be the one doing your wedding? How do they bill out? Do they accept "kick-backs"?

The basic ways a coordinator will bill you, will be:

a. A percentage of the budget - Ask if this is the proposed budget or what it turns out to be. What all is included in the percentage?

b. By the hour.

c. By a flat fee. This is the way I choose to bill because I feel it's important that no client feels like they are being charged every time they call or want to meet with me. Planning a wedding takes as long as it takes. (Personally, I'm on site for the rehearsal and the day of the wedding start to finish. This means I check in with the bride, wherever she's getting ready then proceed to do what I need to do.)

Does the planner have an adequate emergency kit? Will they bring it?

Do they have an assistant? While I don't always use one, if the ceremony and reception are in different locations or if there are over 50 guests, then I will have someone there to help cover as needed.

Most important, is how do you feel about this person? Are they sending out warm, fuzzy vibes? Do they seem to be someone who will listen to what you want or do they appear to be the type to just take over? Remember this is YOUR wedding and your budget. You are in control!

It's also nice, when you can, to take your fiance with you. A good wedding coordinator should make themselves available to the groom as well since he may have questions that he needs answers to as well.

I hope this helps your interviewing process. If you have any questions, please feel free to call me or send me an email at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com or check out my website http://www.weddingsbytanya.com/ for additional information.

The more informed you are the easier your interviews will go.