Bravo! Wedding Blog » Portland

Weddings at the World Trade Center Portland – Simply Stunning!

Bravo Publications — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:30:40 +0000

Start your wedding morning at one of the many upscale hotels in downtown Portland. Host your evening ceremony at the World Trade Center Portland followed by some fun and romantic photos on the waterfront and by the Salmon Street Fountain.

Head up to the Bridge Level of the World Trade Center, which is an amazing location graced with abundant glass architecture and dramatic views of the Willamette River. The lighting in the Sky Bridge Terrace is simply magical! The World Trade Center has recently installed new ceiling heaters allowing them to host gorgeous winter wonderland weddings as well!

Book your wedding at the World Trade Center Portland before February 29th, 2012 and receive 20% off of wedding rental!

Join Oaks Pioneer Church for an Open House this Saturday!

Bravo Publications — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:30:49 +0000

Come see the newly refurbished Oaks Pioneer Church this Saturday at their Open House. Explore the freshly painted historic building with gorgeous stained windows and beautiful interior all located in a park-like setting overlooking the Willamette River. All this beauty provides wonderful photo opportunities on your special day.

Oaks Pioneer Church Open House
Saturday, Jan 28^th from 12 to 2
Oaks Pioneer Church - 8210 SE 13th Ave, Portland Oregon

Spring/Summer Dates Happily Available! Contact Lorraine at 503.234.3570 to schedule a tour

Anna’s Bridal Boutique Designer Wedding Gown Sample Sale – Extended!

Bravo Publications — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:46:34 +0000

Anna’s Bridal Boutique Designer Wedding Gown Sample Sale – Extended!

Anna’s Bridal Boutique is excited to announce they have extended the Sample Sale at their Fremont location. 4819 NE Fremont St. Portland, Oregon 97213

Due to the inclement weather yesterday, Anna’s made the decision to extend the sale through Friday.

Hours: Thursday 2:00 to 7:00 and Friday 1:00 to 5:00

Anna’s still had many amazing gowns at deeply discounted prices.

Please call to schedule an appointment. 503-636-1474

Designers include: Melissa Sweet, Priscilla of Boston, Vineyard, Reverie, Marisa, Casablanca, Pronovias, & more!

* Designer gowns will be 40-70% off regular prices.

* First come, first serve!

* Discontinued as well as some of last year’s styles!

Maureen Haley, Wedding Officiant, Marries 500th Couple!

Bravo Publications — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:00:37 +0000

Maureen Haley, wedding officiant in Portland, Oregon, recently married Anthony and Marissa, the 500^th happily married couple since she was ordained as a non-denominational minister in 2006. She loves everything weddings and knows how unique and special each couple is. Love is the common ground, however there are no two weddings alike and it’s a great time for the loving couple to express their individuality. Every ceremony is written by Maureen and is customized to suit the couple.

Rev. Maureen Haley & 500th couple Marissa and Anthony

Maureen Haley is active in the Portland wedding community and loves to network and support other wedding professionals in pursuing their dreams and expressing their creativity. She truly enjoys being part of the team of professionals that fuses together on your wedding day to make your ceremony vision come to life.

She serves as the Co-Chairman of the Membership committee of the Wedding Network USA in the Portland chapter and is a founding member of WNUSA. She belongs to the Portland Wedding Lounge a group of Portland’s top wedding professionals in all categories. She networks with the best wedding officiants in Portland and SW Washington www.123oregonWeddingOfficiants.com and has many wonderful reviews from happily married couples on Wedding Wire. www.weddingwire.com/maureenhaley

She will be delighted to meet with you and discuss your wedding ceremony ideas.

Rev. Maureen Haley, Wedding Officiant in Portland, loves marrying happy couples! Trust your wedding ceremony to an expert.

Rev. Maureen Haley, Wedding Officiant

RevMaureenPdx@gmail.com
503-888-9876
www.portlandministers.com

Modern – Fresh – Cultural Twist – Portland Pearl – Wedding

Bravo Publications — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:00:39 +0000

Guest blog from JOS Photographers.

From the bride (Nicole Darabi): “My husband Nima and I were married on May 14th, 2011 in Portland’s hip historic pearl district. Many of the finest vendors in Portland helped support our modern twist on a traditional Catholic/Persian wedding. The day was magical, joyous, and emotional. We chose colors of plums, magenta’s, graphite grey, black and white along with orchids, peonies, roses, and anenomies in jewel tones themed the day along with modern damask print patterns. We had 15 people in our wedding party and 300 guests for a dynamic day filled with joyous activities. Nima and his guys gathered at our home while I got ready at The Nine’s Hotel with my girls, seeing each other for the first time at the progressive Indigo 12 West (both of these buildings Nima’s firm helped design and build), our first ceremony at the St. Mary’s Cathedral was an important part to me. The ceremony was accompanied by a choir. After our exit we had a 9 pedicab escapade for our wedding party through the Pearl District to Pure Space for yes, a second ceremony since Nima is Persian. One of the favorite details of the day was Nima’s Aunt Malekeh who put exquisite traditional touches on the Sofreh for the traditional Persian ceremony yet kept it modern enough for our reception. This ceremony was fun and playful with Nima dancing in with his parents to music. My maid of Honor and Nima’s Aunt read Rumi and Nima & I feeding each other honey, a fine Persian tradition. Afterward guests were open to explore, enjoy a drink or hang out in the lounge area. We also had a photo booth which was so much fun to play and get wild with various props. Everyone knows that we love to have a good time with family and friends so that was the main objective for our day. Because both the Catholic & Persian ceremonies were so traditional we wanted to make sure our guests were given the proper environment at their reception to let loose, eat, drink, and dance the night away. We equally showcased both of our cultures throughout the day and especially the reception. Because I am Puerto Rican/Italian and Nima is Persian it definitely paved the way for a festive party and the amazing DJ to throw down some great dance music. We had everyone on the dance floor from the time we were announced as bride and groom and continued non-stop to the end of the night. We even had a surprise salsa dancing performance! People kept telling me months before my wedding to take it all in, so I made myself stop and look around numerous times throughout the evening saying “Honestly, this experience was the best day of my life and it makes me that much more excited for our journey ahead.”

From Molli Barrs – Soiree: “Working with Nicole and Nima was a wonderful experience. As coordinators it was our job to understand their vision and help make it happen. We not only managed their vendors and ensured the event ran smoothly but we also maintained a great relationship with the bride and groom throughout the process to make sure their vision was communicated to their vendors. As we are working with clients we like to help them find ways to incorporate their personalities, style, and cultural traditions. What was unique about Nicole and Nima’s wedding was that there were two ceremonies, the first a traditional Catholic ceremony and a second Persian ceremony to celebrate Nima’s heritage. It was a lovely blend of two cultures and the guests really enjoyed the experience. There were a lot of moving pieces to this wedding. We appreciated that Nicole and Nima hired us for our expertise and recommendations and trusted us to pull all the details together and make their dream wedding perfect. It was a real treat to work with such a fantastic couple, not to mention their great team of vendors.

Please visit JOS Photographers to see more images from Nicole & Nima’s Wedding.

Pies, Pies, PIES!!!

Bravo Publications — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 17:00:01 +0000

Le Cookie Monkey is making delicious pies for Thanksgiving, so if you’re not in the mood to make one from scratch this year, let the Monkey do the dirty work for you!

Le Cookie Monkey Pies... Yum!

This year Le Cookie Monkey is featuring a Traditional Pumpkin Pie, a Seasonal Local Apple pie, a Dutch Apple Cranberry pie, and last, but certainly not least… a magnificent Pumpkin Chiffon Pie! The great thing about ordering from Le Cookie Monkey is that you can have your pie and eat it too, without the hassle of making it yourself!

Come try some PIE & Give Thanks for yummy treats to share with your loved ones!!! Open on November 23rd until 5p.m. for pick-ups after you get off work!!

Order at: info@lecookiemonkey.com or call 503.232.3848

Pickup Orders at: 736 SE Powell Blvd. Portland, OR 97202 (off of SE 8th & Powell)

Bravo! Live 2011 Recap

Bravo Publications — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:00:37 +0000

WOW! What a week it has been! Yesterday’s Bravo! Live Event Showcase exceeded our expectations and that of both vendors and attendees. Not only did we see excellent attendance but we had multiple people tell us during and after the show how much fun they had and how great everything was. For some Bravo! Publication employees and attendees it was their very first show and for others, it was a welcome gathering of old colleagues and friends. It was unanimously decided that it was Bravo’s best show ever and for very good reason. With the endless help of the Oregon Convention Center we were able to produce a seamless show that drew an amazing amount of attendees. Plus with our amazing group of vendors we were simply blown away by people’s creativity, hospitality and unique products.

The theme this year was Destination Northwest and immediately as you walked into the exhibit hall you were transported to a lush, inviting entryway that directly reflected how inspiring our landscape is. Just by walking around and seeing the different array of booths you could sense that it took a tremendous amount of work, most of the vendors working late into the night before getting everything to look just right. The collection of vendors that participated put on a fantastic show and many said that Bravo! Live is their favorite event of the year.

Many vendors also commented that they saw a tremendous amount of foot traffic and emphasized that it was the right type of foot traffic, making valuable connections with event planners from all types of industries. We were thrilled to hear this feedback because that is Bravo’s number one goal for putting on this type of event.

Hybrid Moon put together a great video for us which they recorded, edited and uploaded directly from the event, right from their iPhone! Check it out below:

Bravo! Event Live 2011 Tour • Shot, Editied and Uploaded using an iPhone 4

Again, this event was spectacular and the only way it was possible was with the joint efforts of so many hardworking and creative people. For us, it’s our biggest event of the year but also a chance for people to come together and do business in a way that is fun, interactive and unique. The success of this event inspires us to make the Bravo! Wedding Affair even more of a triumph. As the year winds down the work picks up and we thrive off the positive feedback we get from vendors and attendees after our shows.

People came hungry and the caterers did not disappoint- we’d list all the amazing food but the photos from Andie Petkus Studios simply speak for themselves! Take a look at the pictures below and make sure to check out the entire gallery from the show here.

Again, thank you to everyone involved and who came and here’s to next year’s show!

Beautiful drapes by West Coast Events are the backdrop for the Bravo! Live registration booth

The lounge area in the entrance way. Don't those couches look chic and comfortable?

Peter Corvallis Production's amazing booth. We loved the colors and mounted deer head!

Owner of Bravo! Publications Mary Lou Burton on stage to kick off the show

The entrance to the show. this year's theme: Destination Northwest

An exhibitor chats with attendees during the show

The Heathman Lodge photo booth was a big hit! Love the mustaches, ladies!

Our gorgeous registration booth courtesy of West Coast Events

A performer on stage at Bravo! Live

Heidi the dog from Timberline Lodge has hard a day. She's pooped!

Put a pig on it!

Committed! Portland’s Alternative Bridal Event

Bravo Publications — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 17:00:03 +0000

We’ve said this many times here at Bravo! but every bride is different and different is good. Committed! Portland’s Alternative Bridal Event is a fun and casual showcase of talented vendors for couples looking for something less along the lines of a traditional wedding. Curated by Luxe Event Productions, this bridal show is from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday October 21st at The Ambridge Event Center and will feature innovative Style Scenes, cool, unique ideas and plenty of amazing vendors.

Hey, even biker dudes and mamas need love too!

Style Scenes will includes themes like Moonshine Southern Wedding, Day of the Dead Wedding, Eco Friendly Wedding, Punk Rock Wedding, 80s Vintage Wedding plus more. Additionally, there will be two fashion shows at 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. which are sure to be nothing close to ordinary. This show is sponsored by Le Coookie Monkey, Black Label Films, Ambridge Events Center, Mosco Photo, Oregon Bride Magazine, yours truly (Bravo! Publications) and many more.

We’re excited to be part of this event and encourage brides-t0-be to attend if they’re looking for something original, fun and alternative. Oh, and every couple that attends gets a sweet gift bag chock-full of goodies! Tickets are $12 online and $15 at the door (cash only).

Follow their Twitter account for more updates, tips and hints.

Check out their Facebook Page.

Guest Blog: Lora of Sophisticated Floral Design on how to save money on your wedding flowers

Bravo Publications — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 18:00:17 +0000

Lora suggests mixing and matching your florals to help you stay on budget.

I often get asked-”Why are wedding flowers so expensive?” The simple fact is that wedding flowers have to be in absolute tip top shape and premium quality which means they can get expensive.

When the flowers arrive from the wholesaler, they have to be properly cleaned, prepped and conditioned. An average wedding order can take anywhere from a several hours to a few days to prepare. Not including the time it takes to deliver, set up and collect any rental items after the wedding.

While you are enjoying your time with the family or getting pampered for your big day, your florist is working long hours to make sure your flowers look superb for your wedding.

Fresh flowers cannot be designed too far in advance, which means your florist may be working through the night to create your beautiful arrangements.

This being said, there are creative ways to save money without compromising your style and overall quality. Think outside the box with these helpful tips on getting the most out of your wedding flower budget.

1. {Set a Flower Budget.} When talking with a florist it’s really important to tell them what your price point is. They will suggest options that go along with your theme and colors and are more cost effective for you.

2. {Find a florist that will work with your budget.} I personally recommend looking for a florist that is flexible, works out of their home or studio and specializes primarily in weddings and events. This is what I do and I know there are others like me out there. We are able to offer lower prices because we do not have the expensive overhead of a traditional floral shop. You will always get much more personal attention with such a florist.

3. {Seasonal Availability.} Choose blooms that are in season, or are always available.
Using out of season flowers will drive the prices up significantly as well as compromise the flower quality.

4. {Don’t settle} for just roses, because that is the only flower you know. There are a multitude of flowers that come in many shapes, sizes and price points. Don’t be afraid to ask your florist questions to find out what flowers will work best within your budget.

5. {Be flexible with flower varieties.} If you have a very tight budget, have an open mind and be flexible on the type of flowers you want. Do tell your florist what your likes and dislikes are, while allowing them to be creative and do what they do best.
This gives your florist the flexibility to choose flower varieties that will look best and be the most cost efficient option for you.

6. {Avoid major Holidays.} {Valentine’s and Mother’s Day being the top two}
Supply and demand is what drives the flower prices up and the quality down during the holiday season.

7. {Limit exotic and premium flowers~ie. Orchids, Calla Lilies, Gardenias, Stephanotis, Oriental Lily, Peony, Tropical’s, etc} If your heart is set on using premium or exotic flowers, use them in moderation and limit them to bridal party flowers only.
Spend the bulk of your floral budget on the Bridal Party flowers, as they will be the most seen and most photographed arrangements at your wedding.

8. {Choose a “right” venue.} A venue that is already beautiful with lush manicured lawns or breathtaking views will not requires as much decor. It could be a park, garden or a golf course that will have these characteristics.

9. {Don’t overlook non-floral accents.} If you are getting married in the winter it may be a great money saving option to use pine cones, ornaments or Christmas greenery in your flower arrangements. In the fall there is an abundance of fall leaves, pumpkins, branches and pods. Summer season brings a lot of colorful fruits and vegetables. Don’t be afraid to be a little different and you will end up with the most gorgeous wedding décor without compromising your overall style.

10. {Dare to Mix and Match} If you have your heart set on tall elaborate centerpieces but are having trouble fitting them in your budget, its best to mix it up with short centerpieces. A good way to keep everything coordinated together is to stick with the same types of flowers or colors for both styles.

Depending on your overall style, you can also scope out your local Goodwill, flea market or garage sale to collect the unique containers and vases for your centerpieces.

Don’t worry if they are not identical, it can often add more charm to have a variety of styles all in the same color scheme.

11. {Recycle your arrangements.} Using the same arrangements more than once will undoubtedly save you money. This means depending on design and location logistics you can re-use your ceremony arrangements at your reception.

12. {Choose your Focal Points.} Larger/Taller displays will always command attention. You don’t need to have many elaborate arrangements on every corner. However, when positioned strategically at your venue, they will give you the best results by highlighting the most important areas. Smaller arrangements scattered throughout the venue seem to get overlooked by the most.
Ask your florist to use more economical blooms for your larger arrangements. For example; Carnations and baby’s breath are very affordable way to go. A lot of people, myself included, used to really dislike them. However, when used in abundance and styled properly, they can be quite striking and pack a punch while not breaking your budget.

13. {DIY] There are some aspects of your wedding décor where DIY projects are perfectly acceptable. If you are a crafty person, you can create beautiful paper cones that will be filled with rose petals for each guest to toss at the bride and groom. You could also attempt to create a beautiful flag banner or another piece of décor in your wedding colors to enhance your overall wedding theme, if you so choose.

DIY projects can be a great way to personalize your wedding day-but don’t get carried away where you are trying to do it all and have no time to enjoy your big day. This is where the professional vendors come in-we are here to help you be stress fee on the most important day of your life.

I hope those tips were helpful to you while planning your wedding.

~Lora

Check out Sophisticated Floral Design’s website/blog, Facebook, Twitter, and even her Etsy shop pages for more great tips on florals!

Wedding Favors- Cheap, Chic & Creative

Bravo Publications — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 17:26:39 +0000

When it comes to wedding favors, being creative and unique can sometimes hurt your budget. You want both you and your guests to remember the day forever and with these simple and affordable wedding favor ideas you can. Wedding favors can be anything from a simple retro Polaroid picture to a succulent in a cool looking pot- the possibilities are endless. Best of all you can totally do them yourself or with your bridesmaids as a fun bridal party, all you have to do is be creative!

We’re giving away a $50 gift certificate from Portland Spa & Boutique to the most creative bride-to-be who shares her wedding favor idea. All you have to do is post a picture or write a description of your idea on our Facebook page wall, tell your friends to ‘Like’ us and vote for you and the idea with the most likes win. The contest ends September 1 when we’ll announce the winner but in the meantime you can browse these simple ideas to help get you inspired.

Potted herbs can be both placeholders and useful favors for guests

These painted wish bones are unique, sweet and crafty

A small bag filled with tea leaves and a sugar stick for stirring is a delicious treat for guests

For the brides that aren’t so DIY-inclined or simply don’t have the time, there are some other fantastic options of companies that are an excellent wedding favor resource. A Yen For Chocolate makes beautiful and elegant chocolates with customized packaging and The Wedding Cottage is great for plantable gifts, candles and more.

A beautiful wooden cases holds one of A Yen For Chocolates sweet surprises

An abundance of beautiful options are available at The Wedding Cottage

Remember to be creative and have fun with wedding favors and who knows, you may find your perfect gift from other people’s ideas.