Elopement on a Sunday Morning!

I had the wonderful opportunity to perform the wedding of two very special people. They chose Daniel's Park, just outside of Denver for the special moment.

Many couples are discovering they don't have to have a large wedding but are choosing to do a very intimate ceremony, with mainly just the two of them.

Colorado is a wonderful destination for Planned Elopements as there are so many mountain areas to choose from, things to do, places to go and things to see. You can combine your wedding and honeymoon together, stay at a wonderful resort and spa or a beautiful dude ranch and still go home with money in your pocket.

Yes, I do full weddings and large destination weddings, which I love doing. Destination weddings can be here in Colorado, or I can travel to anywhere in the world to help you have the wedding of your dreams.

There's a new trend in engagements...women doing the proposing, along with presenting her man with a man-gagement ring. These are rings, that can be anything from a simple band with a stone (diamond or otherwise) to something that may reflect your man's profession. Men who have been asked, are proud and pleased to wear this symbol of their love. No, this doesn't take the place of the ladies' engagement ring, just another option to consider. Don't forget to have your photographer in on the surprise, no matter who's doing the proposing, to capture that very special moment when the question is asked!

Have questions about your wedding planning? I'm available to answer questions via email at Tanya@WeddingsbyTanya.com. For more information on a Planned Elopement to Full Wedding Planning, go to www.WeddingsbyTanya.com.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Looking for 2012!

2011 is almost behind us and 2012 is right in front. What will it hold is the question everyone is asking.

2012 is going to be a wonderful year for weddings. Many couples got engaged over the holidays and are looking forward to starting their lives together as husband and wife.

Some of you may be wondering what trends are showing up:

1) White weddings - everything is white including flowers, attendants attire, mothers' dresses and even guests can be asked to wear white.
2) Colors - The rich jewel tones are being included in the flowers
3) Smaller guest lists- Couples are choosing to include only those family and friends who really mean a lot to them.
4) Formal weddings - Black tie is back in vogue.
5) Destination weddings - Couples are choosing beautiful, romantic spots like the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, Cancun, Mexico, Italy for their weddings. This way they keep the guest list small, if any. (I'm doing a lot of "Planned Elopements" which includes setting up spa dates, a special romantic lunch/dinner for the couple, performing the ceremony etc. This also allows the couple to stay in a beautiful resort for their honeymoon.)
6) Hiring a wedding coordinator - Couples, and especially brides' mothers are finding they can actually enjoy the planning and the wedding by turning the details and stress over to a coordinator.
7) Pets - if it's possible to include a special pet do! Just be sure to have a handler take over the animal after their job is done.

These are just a few of the trends for 2012. What are your ideas, thoughts, dreams and desires for your wedding day? Bring them to Weddings, Etc. LLC and we'll help make it happen. www.weddingsbytanya.com.

On another note - Weddings, Etc. LLC is expanding to Houston, TX! Look for the formal announcement coming soon!

Wishing everyone a Very Happy and Safe New Year!

Planned Elopements in Colorado

There's a lot to be said for eloping, especially if it's "planned". One of the many services I offer is "Planned Elopements"(c). What is a "Planned Elopement"? This is where you call or email me with your date, what you want and I take it from there.

Perhaps you'd like to start your day with a massage in the spa, I can help book this. While you are doing this, your groom would like to have a fly fishing lesson or go golfing, I can arrange this as well.

I can assist with , photographer, videographer and anything else you'd like to include.

If you'd like your make up and hair done, I will recommend a professional makeup/hair artist to come to you so you'll look your stunning best for your wedding.

Jenn and Jim came to Colorado from Birmingham, AL. They specifically wanted a sunset wedding with mountains in the background.

Credit

Flowers - Encore Style (Kirsten Rodriguez), http://www.encorestyleinc.com/ for the beautiful bouquet and boutonniere of red roses;

Photography by Ken Miller http://www.kenmillerphotography.com/
Town car furnished by A Advantage Limousine http://www.limoucinedenver.com/

You can find out more from my website www.WeddingsbyTanya.com or email me at Tanya@WeddingsbyTanya.com or tporterweddsetc@hotmail.com.

Happy Planning!

Even though you've chosen to get married, with just the two of you (or a couple of friends) this is your wedding day and it should be special and full of good memories.

Weddings, Etc. LLC in the news!

Want to learn more about Weddings, Etc. LLC? Go to www.weddingsandpartynetwork.com/blog/spotlights/weddings-etc-consultant.

I'm in the spotlight!

It's been a great week as the phones are ringing off the hook! It's nice to be recognized and wanted! I've booked with three great couples this week. I still have a few dates available as I have to limit the number of weddings I do since I do each and every wedding/event myself.

I'm also booking elopements, which I enjoy doing as well.

It's hard to realize that February is almost over! A donation will be made to the Heart Association, this month, in the names of the new clients I've signed.

The charity to receive donations for March will be The Boys and Girls Club.

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.

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.

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

Weddings, the Economy and Budgets

First let me, along with my mascots, Sandy and Remus, wish everyone a Very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. May you enjoy a beautiful, peaceful time with your families and loved ones.
For those of you who will be getting engaged, remember to enjoy your engagement for a bit before starting on the road to planning your wedding. When you are ready to start planning your wedding, start with a good coordinator. They will save you a lot of time (and we all know that time is money)!

The economy hasn't been to kind to anyone this year and to help accommodate those planning weddings, I'm offering payment plans for any of my packages. There is no interest charged. This allows you to spread out your payments so you can select the services that you need and not settle for just any package. Hopefully this will help your budgets.

To discuss this option, please email me at tanya@weddingsbytanya or call me at 303-779-0395. Remember, I'm happy to travel anywhere to help make your day special and worry free.

For those of you, who may be out of the country, but are interested in an American style wedding, I'm also happy to assist you.

I'm predicting that destination/planned elopements will be popular in 2009, mainly because the cost and pressure of planning a full wedding can be eliminated. Imagine, coming to Colorado to the beautiful mountains, getting married and spending 2-4 days in a four star resort and still going home with money in your pocket. This is doable with a planned elopement. Let me take care of all the details for you.

For all you "soon to be grooms" if you don't propose over the holidays and are looking for the right time and place, keep me in mind. My Silver Rose Proposal package is one you might consider to help you come up with just the right moment and way to pop that all important question.

Again, Wishing you all the best and blessings of the Holiday Season!

Grooms' Corner

Today's grooms are more savey than in the past. They want to (or should) be involved in the wedding planning. Gone are the days when a groom just showed up, said "I do" and was done.



This is a groom's day as well as the bride's. Eventhough the focus is on the bride, there is as much emotion on the groom's part. This is your wedding day as well and you should feel like you can contribute if there's something you feel you'd like to say.



For example, if you have a female friend who means a lot and has been close, why not ask her to stand as your honor attendant. Nothing says you have to have a best man! Yes, she should dress like the other bridesmaids and carry a bouquet or something similar to the bridesmaids.



What if you have a special color you'd like included? Tell you bride about it and see if it can't be incorporated. (However, please understand not all brides are into NFL,NBA or MLB colors!!!!)

Drop hints as to what you might like to have if your bride decides to surprise you with a groom's cake. Don't like cake? I've had icecream cakes made to take the place of the cake.



Let your bride know your thoughts. She may not take all your suggestions, but I'm sure she'll be glad to hear you are interested in the planning.



Many groom's don't think a wedding coordinator is necessary, but let me recommend that if you want your bride, FMIL and your family to enjoy the day, you'll be the first to suggest it. Having a good coordinator is invaluable when it comes to figuring out complex issues such as blended families, working in children from a previous marriage, working out compromises between the two of you and families; and in helping you to have a stress and worry free day.



Have questions? I'm happy to help you from helping plan your proposal to any questions regardin wedding planning. Just email me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com or call me at 303-779-0395. (I not only do weddings in Colorado, but am available to help plan and travel to your destination site.)



One last note if you just got engaged, consider giving your fiance a copy of my book WEDDING PLANNING GUIDE, A Bride's Workbook(c). It will make both your jobs easier! To order, email me or give me a call at 303-779-0395.



Have a great summer!

Destination Weddings vs. Planned Elopements

I want to differintiate between a Destination Wedding and a Planned Elopement.

A Destination Wedding is one that takes place away from your home and includes a number of guests generally under 50. These generally are 3-5 days in length, with activities planned for guests.

A Planned Elopement is a wedding that is generally the bride and groom and possible a couple of friends or family members.

Both are wonderful ways to keep costs in check, especially for those who would have a guest list of 400 if they stayed at home!

A big difference is that you need to expect the same amount of planning, from a wedding coordinator, to go into planning your destination wedding as you would if having a home wedding. Where with a "Planned Elopement" there's still a time factor, but not nearly as involved.

You can plan to pay a wedding coordinator the same for their services as if you were in the vicinity planning your wedding. The only additions I charge are for travel expenses if the wedding includes traveling outside the metro area.

The same for elopements. Fees are based on what services you want and what you want included.

I'm happy to assist with either your destination wedding or "Planned Elopement" and am available to travel to your chosen destination to take care of all details.

Check out my website at www.weddingsbytanya.com for additional information on packages, email me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com or call 303-779-0395.

Planned Elopements(c)

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to assist a beautiful couple, from Florida, realize their dream of a wedding in the Rocky Mountain National Park. (They did a "planned elopement".)

The site the chose was Lily Lake, just south of Estes Park. This little lake is surrounded by the grandure of the Rocky Mountains. The Lake is clear with fish jumping and ducks swimming. (Did you know that ducks, geese and swans mate for life?) This has to be a good omen! I was the officiant.

Many couple who come to visit Colorado fall in love with the State and want to return to get married. Whether you want a full destination wedding with several days of interacting with guests, spas, and other wonderful outdoor activities, to a very romantic site for just the two of you, I can help.

If you are considering a mountain wedding, there are some things you might need to know. The wedding season is generally early June through mid October. The "high" season for the ski areas is generally Thanksgiving through the middle of March. (This is when the costs will be the greatest and less apt to receive discounts.) From April through May is generally known as the "mud season". You also need to keep the altitude in mind if considering older guests. Even those who want to elope, and are coming from sea level, need to allow time to get used to the thinner air.

Whether you want to do an eleborate, 150 guest, destinationa wedding at the Ritz Carlton in Bachelor Gultch, or a romantic elopement for just the two of you, I can assist.

Colorado offers everything from historic hotels in Denver, Mountain tops, to casinos for those who want to have fun without the hassel of Las Vegas.

Consider a "planned elopement". This is where I assit you with everything from officiating the ceremony to arranging for a photographer, helping with hotel arrangements etc. All this takes is a call to me to set up the date and time, idea of where you'd like to have the ceremony, then I send you a selection of vows to choose from or you may write your own. (I am happy to travel to anywhere you care to get married. For those brides planning destination weddings outside of Colorado, I'm happy to travel there as well.)

For more information call me at 303-779-0395 or email me at tanya@weddingsbytanya.com. Also, don't forget to checkout my information at www.weddingsbytanya.com

Until next time....

Groom's Corner

I've decided to devote a corner of my blog to grooms. Watch each month for more tips. Here's the first addition.

GROOM’S CORNER

Groom’s have long felt that their place, in wedding planning, has been to dress up and show up. Guess what!!!!
This has changed.

Today’s modern groom realizes that his ideas and desires are also important. Gone are the days when the bride makes all the decisions, especially since more and more couples are paying for their own weddings.

What then should a groom plan on? First off, what is a groom responsible for?

Let’s start with the proposal. How and when generally puts a man into a cold sweat. Don’t worry, I’m here to help. Whether you want something simple, like a picnic in the park, or something complex, such as a trip to Hawaii, Las Vegas, Paris, I can also handle all the details to make it a perfect moment for the two of you. And, don’t forget the photographer and videographer. You want to capture each moment and emotion so you can add these to your wedding album and wedding video.

Now, what kind of ring do you want to give your special lady? It can be a diamond, colored diamond, a pearl, birthstone, actually any gemstone that may peak her fancy. Size? Some people will say you need to spend the equivalent to two month’s pay. Let common sense be your guide. Spend what you can afford. Keep in mind that if you purchase a beautiful, top grade quarter diamond, on your fifth, tenth, fifteenth or twentieth anniversary, you can surprise your bride with an upgrade to a larger stone. It’s the thought that counts, not the size. If your lady is more concerned about the size and how much is spent, take a step back and reassess your situation. Keep in mind the Four C’s – Carets, Color, Clarity and Cut. (For a wonderful resource, before buying a diamond, read How to Buy A Diamond by Fred Cuellar.)

Should your lady pick out the ring? If you want to surprise her, you can casually ask what she likes, maybe during a shopping trip, to get ideas. Before purchasing a ring, ask the jeweler about return policies if she doesn’t care for the mounting. In this case, present the ring, then the two of you go back to the store and she can select a mounting more to her liking. (I’ve actually orchestrated a proposal where the jeweler brought the ring to be presented with the understanding if she liked it, the groom would be purchasing it. If she didn’t like it, then the two of them would go into the store to select one she did like.)

If you want your bride to be to select her own ring, visit the jeweler ahead of time to talk with them about how much you want to spend so they will show rings only within the price range. Select your jeweler as you would a doctor. You want someone you can build a relationship with, as you will, no doubt, be purchasing additional jewelry items throughout your lifetime. You want someone you can trust, who you know will listen to what you want and who you know will deal upfront and honestly with you.

Okay, you’ve gotten down on one knee, popped the question, and she said yes…now what?

Here’s a list of what, traditionally, the groom and his family is responsible for…

Brides engagement/wedding rings.
Marriage License.
Ceremony official's fee (many times the bride’s family will pay this as well.)
(Going-away corsage for the bride if leaving directly on their honeymoon.)
Wedding gift for bride.
Gifts for best man and ushers
Wedding night suite
Rehearsal dinner
Honeymoon
Blood tests
Gloves, ties, and ascots for men in wedding party.

Attendants pay for:
Personal wedding attire.
Personal traveling expenses.
Personal hotel expenses

Why should you and your bride consider hiring a wedding coordinator?
Let me distinguish between a site coordinator (hotel wedding coordinator) and what I do. The hotel or site coordinator is just that. They are there for the benefit of the venue. I, on the other hand, am there to assist you and your bride with your planning by recommending qualified and proven vendors, working with you to figure out what to give your attendants, groomsmen, and even assist finding the right gift for your bride. I work with you both to be sure everything is in the order you want your day to be and then am on site to make sure it happens.

During your planning process, I’m available to assist with any questions, help you find a good tux shop, and even recommend a honeymoon spot.

Another important item I, as your wedding coordinator, do is to supply an extensive emergency kit. Buttons fall off, shirt necks don’t always fit or one of the groomsmen may have forgotten to brush his teeth. I can take care of all these things plus many more.

A good wedding coordinator is available to the groom as much as the bride. Groom’s love to surprise their brides with a lovely card, note or letter on their wedding day and I can be your “postman” to deliver it.

Have more questions about being a groom? Call me at 303-779-0395 or email me at tporterweddsetc@hotmail. I’m always happy to meet you over coffee, the lunch hour, after hours to assist you any way I can to allow you to enjoy your engagement and wedding planning process.

Yes, grooms, you are a very important part of the wedding…remember it’s your wedding too!!!

Silver Rose Proposals

This evening a gentleman is going to propose to the love of his life. (In this case, they've been married for 14 years and he wants to give her the wedding they never had.)

Whether you are getting engaged for the first or second time, coming up with a creative way to ask your beloved for her hand in marriage can be difficult.

I'm happy to offer this service in addition to my wedding coordination services. Together, we'll come up with the site, if you want a photographer, videographer, or want to enter with a horse and buggy, something that fits both your personalities.

Give me a call to help you come up with a proposal to remember. You can call 303-779-0395, email tporterweddsetc@hotmail.com or contact through www.weddingsbytanya.com

Vail Elopement

Friday, Feb. 22, I had the honor of performing the ceremony for a lovely couple in Vail, CO. They had come from the east coast to enjoy the snow and attmosphere of Vail.

The day was beautiful. The sky was totally blue, the sun was shining on the fresh snow, that had falled the night before.

The bride was beautiful in her white wedding dress and veil, and the groom very handsome in his dark suit. Hand in hand they walked to the place where they wanted to exchange their vows.

We walked out behind the hotel and down a trail to be near a partially iced creek, flowing in the back ground. With the snow surrounding us, a friend. of the bride, standing up for the couple and acting as photographer, they exchanged their vows. Afterwards, we went back into the hotel to sign the license and they proceeded on to dinner.

Hoping that all who are newly engaged, planning a big wedding or an elopement, may all your dreams come true.

For more information on the packages I offer call 303-779-0395, email me at tporterweddsetc@hotmail.com or check out my website http://www.weddingsbytanya.com/ I'm looking forward to hearing from you!