Editor's Blog

South Sound Wedding & Event

Planning your wedding?

Planning your wedding? If you recently became engaged and don't know where to start in your planning, or you have started planning and have questions, come to the FREE South Sound Wedding Workshop on Thursday, March 22, 6 ...   More »

Engaged? Love Struck is Feb. 18

Engaged? Love Struck is Feb. 18 Love Struck is a boutique wedding show where you will be inspired by the creative displays. See the latest gown and tux styles, as well as hair and makeup styles, at the fashion show at ...   More »

Wedding and reception decor

Wedding and reception decor Decorating a large space for your wedding reception can be intimidating. How do I cover up those drab walls and the institutional chairs? There is so much to do, where do I focus my attention ...   More »

Wedding signs

Wedding signs We're seeing a new trend at weddings and receptions: placing handmade directional and fun signs. They are not only fun, but helpful. Afterall, how do the guests find the reception and the bar? We've seen flower ...   More »

Be inspired!

Be inspired! The latest styles in wedding attire will be on display during the fashion shows at the South Sound Wedding Show on Sunday, Jan. 29 at Great Wolf Lodge. The fashion shows are at 11:30 am ...   More »

South Sound wedding shows

South Sound wedding shows You are engaged, now what? It's time to plan your wedding! A good place to start is to attend South Sound wedding shows where you will see the latest trends in wedding and reception decor. You ...   More »

South Sound Wedding & Event Magazine

South Sound Wedding & Event Magazine Our newest issue is a source of inspiration and beauty. I am very proud of South Sound Wedding & Event Magazine -- our 10th anniversary issue. You will be inspired by the stunning photos and creative ...   More »

2012 color of the year

2012 color of the year Pantone reveals color of the year for 2012: Tangerine Tango. To be exact, it's Pantone 17-1463. The color is a spirited reddish orange that has a lot of depth, according to Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of ...   More »

Artistry in Flowers

Artistry in Flowers I prefer to buy locally-made gifts for my friends, so I'm stopping by Artistry in Flowers in Olympia during their Holiday Open House this week. Stop by to be inspired to decorate your home ...   More »

Expecting a ring for the holidays?

Expecting a ring for the holidays? When he -- or she -- proposes and gives you a shiny engagement ring, what comes next? It’s time to start planning your wedding and reception. To begin, review this site for tips and ideas, and ...   More »

See original holiday designs

See original holiday designs I am excited about seeing the new Christmas creations made by the floral designers at Blitz & Co. Florist in downtown Tacoma. The sparkling lights, scent of fresh evergreens, and colorful flowers will inspire you to ...   More »

Winter weddings save costs

Winter weddings save costs When I was married in the month of April, I didn't realize it was off-season. To me April is the month of hope and promise with yellow daffodils blooming, and pink cherry blossoms covering the ...   More »

Wedding trends in 2012

Wedding trends in 2012 After reviewing hundreds of photographs from real South Sound weddings, I have noticed some trends in fashion and wedding decor. Vintage wedding and reception decor: All things vintage that relate to you as a couple. Vintage ...   More »

Engaged?

Engaged? Congratulations on your engagement! Are you feeling lost about where to begin planning? Or do you have nearly all your wedding professionals booked, but need a couple more? For one evening, Oct. 5 from 6 to ...   More »

Finding South Sound wedding resources

Finding South Sound wedding resources We can help you find what you need for your wedding or reception. Use this Website as a resource to find South Sound wedding professionals or find ideas for your wedding or reception. More photos and stories ...   More »

Tacoma wedding & event decor designer wins award

Tacoma wedding & event decor designer wins award Congratulations to PJ Hummel for her Woman of Influence award, presented by the Business Examiner. During her acceptance speech, she talked about her philosophy of giving and business, "Focus on what you want to ...   More »

You are engaged, now what?

You are engaged, now what? You are invited to Indian Summer Golf & Country Club in Olympia for the South Sound Wedding Workshop where you will learn tips on how to plan your wedding and reception from South Sound wedding ...   More »

Tree theme wedding reception

Tree theme wedding reception This tree-themed wedding reception features tree bark and floral centerpieces, decorated with a bit of green moss. The tree theme was carried through to the wedding cake decorated as tree bark. The cake holder was ...   More »

Wedding cake pops

Wedding cake pops Cake pops are the newest trend in wedding desserts. I especially like the bride and groom cake pops. Cake pops can be grouped together like flowers in a pot. I've seen golf ball pops, too.Carie ...   More »

DIY reception tables

DIY reception tables I saw this table and thought, "Wow, what an expensive table. It probably cost a fortune. Who could afford that at their wedding when they need several tables?"The clever wedding designers made wise use of ...   More »

Get married at the ocean

Get married at the ocean I love to go to the ocean to play in the sand, walk on the beach and visit the shops. If you love it as much as I do, think about getting married there -- ...   More »

Signs point the way

Signs point the way I am seeing the cutest signs at weddings lately. Some are whimsical and fun, while others direct guests to the wedding and reception.It can be tricky to find out-of-the-way South Sound venues -- or even ...   More »

Orange & eggplant wedding colors

Orange & eggplant wedding colors We are seeing unique color combinations at weddings this summer. Laura spotted these colors at her cousin's wedding.   More »

2011 Offers Unique Dates

I have known a few couples who choose their wedding date, so it’s easy for their spouse to remember. In 2011, there are several onesie dates to choose from. While you already missed 1/1/11 and 1/11/11, ...   More »

Bride Brooch Bouquet

Bride Brooch Bouquet My crafty friend is gathering vintage brooches to make her bridal bouquet. She's combining brooches from her grandmothers and friends to make her bouquet a memorable everlasting bouquet.If your grandma doesn't have enough brooches in ...   More »

Tropical garden in the South Sound

Tropical garden in the South Sound Get married in a palm tree garden in Port Orchard where it's quiet, peaceful and beautiful. If you love palm trees, but don't want to fly to a tropical location to get married, check out ...   More »

Fit into your wedding gown

Fit into your wedding gown I have been training for a triathlon (swim, bike, run -- or walk) since September. I am very happy that the race is done, but I will continue to work out because it benefits my ...   More »

Trendy wedding colors

Trendy wedding colors Gray or silver is a popular wedding color and is increasing in popularity into 2012. Gray and silver are beautiful neutral colors, that are accented well with any shade of yellow.Because gray is a neutral ...   More »

Decorative masking tape adds color

Decorative masking tape adds color Japanese Washi tape comes in a variety of colors, patterns and themes -- many of which can be used to decorate your printed pieces for your wedding or event.I learned about the tape from my ...   More »

Mountain top wedding

Mountain top wedding Where your spirit will sing . . . At Sun Mountain Lodge, there is a 360 degree view of the snow-covered mountains. From its perch, you will feel like you are on top of the ...   More »

Matching jewelry, veil with gown

I visited Angela and Katie at Weddings With Joy last Sunday while their veil designer and jewelry designer were in the store.The designers helped brides-to-be select custom-made veils and jewelry to match their wedding gowns. ...   More »

River rafting trip is a blast

River rafting trip is a blast I went river rafting with friends on the Wenatchee River in Leavenworth with Osprey Rafting. We had a blast paddling through the high, rough spring water. Osprey guides take a lot of wedding parties on ...   More »

Vintage barn in Eastern Washington

Vintage barn in Eastern Washington At Pine River Ranch, about 20 minutes outside of Leavenworth, is a beautiful, quiet 22-acre ranch with a vintage barn. I toured the ranch and barn last weekend. Allan, one of the owners, told me ...   More »

Hairstyles for your wedding day

If you have long, beautiful hair, you may want to show off your flowing locks rather than hide it in an up-do for your wedding.If you are wearing a veil, tiara or hair ornament, on ...   More »

Tips for planning your wedding

In Do it for less! weddings by Denise Vivaldo, you will learn How to create your dream wedding without breaking the bank.From start to finish, she gives you practical ...   More »

Barn weddings

Old-time barns are being discovered by brides from the city, country and the suburbs. You will find several unique, refurbished barns in the South Sound that host weddings, receptions and events. Some are working farms ...   More »

Lighting for tall ceiling

Wedding and receptions in South Sound barns and warehouses are popular. Installing temporary lighting for your event in these large spaces is important to not only see what you are doing and eating, but to ...   More »

Wedding class on May 3 in Tacoma

To learn more about how to plan your wedding, take the class ($50) at Tacoma Community College on Tuesday, May 3 from 6 to 8 pm. Sign up today (call 253-566-5008 to sign up). As ...   More »

Prince William and Princess Catherine

I loved the pomp and pageantry of the Royal Wedding, and I am happy that Prince William has married his Princess Catherine in a memorable and meaningful ceremony. It's a happy day -- only five ...   More »

Royal wedding watch

I will watch their wedding not only for the historical significance of the day, but to see how a royal wedding unfolds. The couple is bound by tradition and protocol, so much of what they ...   More »

Bridal open houses in Tacoma

Chambers Bay, a golf course located along the shores of Puget Sound, is holding a free bridal open house on Sunday, April 24 in the afternoon. From the clubhouse, there is a stunning view of ...   More »

Sage advice to brides-to-be

At most weddings, something goes awry. When it does, usually only the couple and vendors know -- the guests do not see it. When your plans are not perfectly executed: have a positive attitude, laugh ...   More »

Tips for planning your wedding

We are ready to help! Attend the FREE South Sound Wedding Workshop at Port Gamble on Saturday, April 16 from 1 to 2:30 pm. In an intimate, friendly setting, 10 wedding professionals will be eager ...   More »

Fashion color trends summer 2012

The color trends are:
  • rumba red
  • raspberry rose
  • twilight blue
  • shopping bag
  • scuba blue
  • orange peel
  • classic green
  • buttercup
  • flame
  • cockatoo
  • winsome orchid
To see the summer 2012 color trends, visit the site. Click on Products, select Trend Forecasts, then on the right side, click on Facade, ...   More »

Planning your wedding?

I enjoy serving as a South Sound wedding resource to brides-to-be to help them plan their South Sound weddings and receptions. If you want some guidance from me, I will teach a wedding planning class ...   More »

Small, medium or large wedding?

I was talking to an engaged friend who is getting married. She simply wants to get married, but feels the pull of society: fluffy white gown, pressure from family to have a large wedding, and ...   More »

Matchmaker's dream

I love connecting with professionals who will help me create a memorable party or event. I see them as my event-planning partners, my friends, my guides. Together we put on a fabulous experience for my ...   More »

Digital magazine available

The magazine comes alive in a digital format. You can click on links to visit South Sound wedding professionals.More photos are added to some stories, and enjoy videos, too.South Sound Wedding & Event Magazine is ...   More »

Wedding planning class

I am teaching a class on how to plan for your wedding on March 1 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm: Wedding Planning for the Bride- and Groom-to-be.We will start with what you need to know ...   More »

Discounted wedding gowns for sale

Come to the VIP event and enjoy yourself on Friday, Feb. 25 from 6 to 10 pm at Clover Park Technical College, McGavick Event Center. Be the first to look at nearly 2,000 wedding gowns ...   More »

Colorful candy buffets

These festive and fun displays are delightful additions to South Sound wedding receptions. Most of us enjoy eating a piece of candy or two. I like seeing the many creative ways that candy can be ...   More »

Be the first to choose

On Friday, Feb. 25, be among the first to shop for your wedding gown, at Clover Park Technical College, McGavick Event Center. Arrive at 6 pm and enjoy food by The Vault Catering Co. ...   More »

Learn from the wedding professionals

Choosing a photographer, DJ/MC, florist, caterer, wedding and reception venue can be overwhelming. There are so many choices to make. We have put together a group of talented South Sound wedding professionals who are willing ...   More »

See you at the wedding show!

On Sunday, from 10 am to 4 pm, head toward Great Wolf Lodge, off of I-5, exit 88, to the South Sound Wedding Show.Find everything you need for your wedding, including discounted couture gowns, by ...   More »

See the latest styles

South Sound brides: see the newest trends in hairstyles, makeup, wedding gowns and tuxes on Sunday, Jan. 30 from 10 am to 4 pm at the South Sound Wedding Show at Great Wolf Lodge. Fashion ...   More »

Need a wedding gown?

South Sound brides may shop for brand-new couture wedding gowns on Jan. 30 from 10 am to 4 pm at the South Sound Wedding Show at Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound. Brides Against Breast ...   More »

Color of the year?

For wedding color trends of the season -- and year, visit the Pantone website.   More »

Couture (designer) gowns on sale

Jan. 30, 2011: Save the date! South Sound Brides: Shop for your wedding gown at the South Sound Wedding Show at Great Wolf Lodge from 10 am to 4 pm. Gowns are up to 80 ...   More »

Engaged?

Summertime is the busiest wedding season and wedding professionals book their dates quickly. To book the professionals you want, start early and come to our upscale wedding shows.Meet photographers, DJs, caterers, venue managers, florists, rental ...   More »

Season of Love

If that small box holds an engagement ring, congratulations! It symbolizes love, hope, and a future with your loved one.When you are ready to start planning your wedding and reception, attend the West Sound Wedding ...   More »

Expecting a ring?

You know he (or she) is going to ask to marry you. While the exact moment may be a big surprise, you have already looked at your friend's South Sound Wedding & Event Magazine, been ...   More »

Bargain shopping

Strands of white lights can be used year-round and are especially pretty to brighten evening South Sound weddings or receptions. Strands of LED lights are in the stores now, as well as beautiful wax candles ...   More »

Wedding show for Kitsap County brides

The 17th annual West Sound Wedding Show (formerly Expo) will be Sunday, Jan. 9, 2011, from 10 am to 4 pm, at the Kitsap Conference Center at the Bremerton Harborside. Located next to the ferry ...   More »

Fall and winter weddings

Generally the South Sound's best weather months are April through October. For decades most South Sound weddings were during the summer, but they are spreading to the spring and fall -- taking advantage of colorful ...   More »

Following your wedding budget

When your wedding dreams do not match your budget, often talented couples and their families will offer to do things for you: photography, videography, invitations or flower arranging.While well-meaning relatives will save you hundreds, maybe ...   More »

Planning your wedding?

The chef at Indian Summer provided a wide array of delicious foods for the guests. Susan and Christina, from Indian Summer, met with engaged couples and their parents to talk about the features of getting ...   More »

Newly engaged?

Join us on Thursday, Oct. 7 from 6 to 8 pm when South Sound brides-to-be and their grooms-to-be, and families, will learn some tips and tricks to help them plan their South Sound wedding and ...   More »

Color trends for Spring 2011

International color trends for Spring 2011 are shown on Pantone.com. Take a look.When you choose your colors, find a large fabric swatch that you can carry with you to check colors of invitations, gowns, bridesmaid ...   More »

Learn from the wedding professionals

South Sound brides- and grooms-to-be are invited to the free South Sound Wedding Workshop on Thursday, Oct. 7 from 6 to 8 pm at Indian Summer Golf & Country Club in Olympia.Couples, and their families, ...   More »

Shopping for a wedding gown?

Couture wedding gowns, some valued at $8,000, will be on sale for as low as $749 on January 30 at the South Sound Wedding Show - Olympia.The sale runs during show hours, 10 am to ...   More »

Sales for brides

Several South Sound stores are having sales. All About Weddings & Celebrations near Southcenter in Tukwila is closing on August 15. They have Beverly Clark guest books and supplies, invitations, cards, accessories and more on ...   More »

Videographers capture the sights, sounds

You are spending countless hours planning your wedding and lots of money. Most likely, you will be so busy and emotional that day, that you will miss a lot of what happened. Videographers tape the ceremony ...   More »

Wedding flowers

August brides: Do you have your florist yet? Or did your do-it-yourself flower plan fail?We can help. Blitz & Co. Florist has a few openings for weddings in August.The staff are highly-experienced and talented floral ...   More »

Indian Summer available October 10

South Sound brides: Do you need a wedding, reception or rehearsal dinner location on September 11 and 18, 2010, and October 10, 2010, in Olympia? Visit the lovely indoor and outdoor spaces at Indian Summer ...   More »

Large South Sound indoor - outdoor venue

Visit the open house on Thursday, July 22 from 4 to 7 pm in Tacoma. Enjoy delicious foods, tour the grounds and chapel, and visit with South Sound wedding and event professionals.The beautiful lawns are ...   More »

Wedding planning

There are book subjects for everyone from the bride who wants a eco-friendly green wedding to the one who wants to spark her imagination.You may not want a completely green-themed wedding, but scan the book ...   More »

Get married at the ocean

Enjoy your a beach wedding at the Ramada - Ocean Shores beautifully landscaped outdoor gardens. Following the wedding, you can have a reception on the pool deck inside a 9,000 square foot room. The North ...   More »

Shopping for a ring?

While in Tacoma, I visited the new EE Robbins store. Known as the engagement ring store, EE Robbins has cases filled with beautiful engagement and wedding rings. I was greeted by Joanne who offered me ...   More »

Rock Creek Gardens

Last night at Rock Creek Gardens, RAM International Catering announced its partnership with the outdoor venue in a Tie the Knot party. Despite the drizzly weather, everyone was dry underneath the large tent where RAM ...   More »

Planning a destination wedding

After attending a friend’s wedding on the Oregon coast, I drove inland through wine country to see a friend in Roseburg, Oregon. Along the drive I noticed the blue signs pointing to the nearest winery ...   More »

Visit this June 6 event

Visit the lovely Rock Creek Gardens and relax in the English gardens. Enjoy the fabulous decor by TLB Events.  Sample delicious and beautifully presented food by RAM International Catering. Pick up a complimentary copy of ...   More »

Distinctive wedding cake

I recently sampled a fabulous wedding cake from Tortes N Tarts. It was not only beautiful, but incredibly delicious. The seven-layered white cake was layered with smooth cream and raspberry filling (which is my favorite ...   More »

Popular wedding colors

To see the most popular wedding colors in 2010, look at a peacock feather. Purple, green and turquoise are most popular this year, according to a survey by the National Association of Catering Executives.Peacock feathers ...   More »

Specialty linens

Cathy at Kitsap Chair Covers has a colorful job. She has chair covers of all colors, textures and sizes. To go with the chair covers, she has sashes, and chair caps. The chair caps are ...   More »

Learn from the pros

Engaged couples, wedding parties and families are invited to the free South Sound Wedding Workshop at Trophy Lake Golf & Casting Club in Port Orchard on Saturday, May 15, from 10 am to noon. Kitsap  ...   More »

Need wine?

When you are looking for wine to buy for your South Sound wedding reception, visit Classic Winemakers. There, you can sample a variety of wines to select which one you want to serve at your ...   More »

Sampling wedding cake

Every Fourth of July, we have a party and enjoy the fireworks. It's the rite of summer for me. I go to the nearby strawberry farm to buy fresh berries. I bake an angel food ...   More »

Hello, Cupcake

When you need a delicious pick-me-up, stop by Hello, Cupcake along Pacific Avenue in Tacoma. Situated nearby the UW Tacoma, and across from Union Station, the cupcake shop is convenient to anyone driving through Tacoma.Rachael ...   More »

Trendy hair ornaments

Last week when Rachael and I were picking up styling new products for our 2011 South Sound Wedding & Event magazine photo shoot, we found lots of new, fun, trendy products.One of the cutest new ...   More »

Workshop for engaged couples

Engaged couples are invited to a South Sound Wedding Workshop on Saturday, May 15 Trophy Lake Golf & Casting Club in Port Orchard. From 10 am to noon, South Sound wedding professionals will give valuable advice ...   More »

Learn how to plan your wedding

You are invited to a South Sound Wedding Workshop on Wed., April 7 at Indian Summer Golf & Country Club in Olympia. From 6 to 8 pm, South Sound wedding professionals will give valuable advice ...   More »

RSVP card does double duty

I am invited to one of my best friend’s weddings this spring. Enclosed with her beautiful wedding invitation was a little something extra. The RSVP was a recipe card and a note that read, “Help ...   More »

Intimate wedding

This wedding was special. I have known the bride since she was the adorable, sweet flower girl at our wedding. What a joy to see her marry the man of her dreams.The Denver gallery's art ...   More »

Once-in-a-lifetime

We invited eight special friends to a private dinner party at The Heritage Room in Olympia. Occasions Catering & Special Events created a special meal just for us. It included a delicious house-made nettle soup. ...   More »

Beautiful church in Olympia

If you are looking for a beautiful, affordable place to marry in Olympia, talk to the staff at The United Churches of Olympia. It is popular with South Sound brides who don't have a church ...   More »

Finding resources

Attending a wedding show can be overwhelming, so take a to-do list, some adhesive address labels, and wear comfy walking shoes. Brides received South Sound Wedding & Event magazine at a new show in Kitsap ...   More »

Bride shoes: new colors

Brides: express yourself with brightly-colored shoes. Choose your wedding accent color and find a pair of shoes to match.Strappy shoes with sparkly jewels or feathers are especially fun!Remember to paint your nails, and soothe dry ...   More »

South Sound Wedding Workshop

You are invited to a South Sound Wedding Workshop on Wed., April 7 at Indian Summer Golf & Country Club in Olympia. From 6 to 8 pm, South Sound wedding professionals will give valuable advice ...   More »

Pierce County wedding show

On March 21, visit the Point Defiance bridal show at the Pagoda from 11 am to 4 pm. It's presented by Metro Parks Tacoma.Rachael and I will be there giving complimentary copies of South Sound ...   More »

The latest fashions

The latest gowns were showcased at the fashion shows. Thanks to Weddings With Joy, Amore Bridal and David's Bridal for the gowns. Thanks to Top Hat for the tuxes. Hair styling by Angelo Mendi-Olympia, makeup ...   More »

Meeting engaged couples

Come see us at the South Sound Wedding Show where you can meet friendly, competent South Sound wedding professionals who can help you with your wedding and reception. The show runs 10 am to 4 ...   More »

Wedding show season!

At the Harbor Bridal Fair, we met delightful brides-to-be, along with some fabulous South Beach wedding professionals who are eager to serve brides. Lorna's Line in Aberdeen has a sale on gowns and dresses; ...   More »

Chehalis Bridal Fair

Meet Chehalis wedding professionals at the Chehalis Bridal Fair on Jan. 15 from noon to 7:30 pm and Jan. 15 from 10 am to 4 pm at the Historic Hotel Washington in downtown Chehalis.Rachael and ...   More »

Harbor Bridal Show

Grays Harbor County, most of us call, the ocean, is a beautiful, natural setting to get married. Consider it a close-by, South Sound destination wedding. While there, stay for your honeymoon!On Saturday, Jan. 9, come ...   More »

Meet South Sound wedding experts

Whether you are getting married in 2010 or 2011, it is best to start looking for your wedding professionals -- partners in planning your wedding -- as early as possible. Start by attending the South ...   More »

Magazine on newsstands

South Sound Wedding & Event Magazine 2010 is on newsstands. in the South Sound. Nine real South Sound weddings are featured, along with weddings that feel like destination weddings, but are in the South Sound. ...   More »

Holiday engagements

When you see a small jewelry box appear, or your loved one is acting nervous, maybe he (or she) is getting ready to ask you to become his (or her) spouse. I remember my engagement ...   More »

Jazz quartet

I enjoyed listening to the Jason Parker Quartet (JPQ) play smooth jazz when I was at the Get Hitched Give Hope event. Their music is fabulous.Live music is always the best. They'll play for South ...   More »

Dancing is fun!

Rachael and I danced our way through the Lakewood Chamber meeting tonight. We stepped, shuffled, and moved to the music. The instructors and students demonstrated several varieties of dance, and my, were they good! It ...   More »

Fall & winter weddings

In the great Northwest, we have natural color year-round found in the forests and gardens. I enjoy watching the leaves change colors, and seeing flower bushes produce red or orange seed pods during the winter. ...   More »

Get Hitched Give Hope

At the swanky Arctic Club in Seattle, engaged couples and top-notch wedding professionals gathered for the Get Hitched Give Hope annual event in late October. Wedding professionals donated wedding-related items for a silent and live ...   More »

Fresh Flowers & Gifts

For an inspirational holiday boost, visit the Blitz & Co. Florist open house in downtown Tacoma. The open house runs Thursday, Nov. 12 through Saturday, November 14. 8 am-6 pm on Thursday and Friday, and ...   More »

Wedding show in January

Find everything you need at the South Sound Wedding Show - Olympia on Sunday, Jan. 31 from 10 am to 4 pm at the Great Wolf Lodge, minutes south of Olympia.Meet South Sound wedding professionals: ...   More »

Preparing 2010 magazine

South Sound real wedding stories have been selected for the 2010 issue. We're looking through hundreds of photographs of real weddings to select the best. We look for photos that will give you ideas for ...   More »

New colors for spring

If you have shopped for bridal gowns and bridesmaids' dresses, you have seen a hint of the spring colors.Pantone recently announced the new colors for spring 2010. They are:• Turquoise• Tomato Puree• Fusion Coral• Tuscany• ...   More »

Gown sales help cause

More than $30,000 was raised by Brides Against Breast Cancer. Proceeds go to the Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation which grants wishes to those who have stage IV breast cancer.National Tour of Gowns Director Brenda ...   More »

The Vault Catering Open House

Enjoy complimentary hors d'oeuvres at The Vault Catering in downtown Tacoma. Tour their new facility, and visit with their preferred vendors. Space is limited, call 253-572-2933, before Oct. 1.The Vault, 1114 Broadway, Tacoma 98402   More »

Wedding show on TV news

Q13 news anchor Angela King interviewed Paula Lowe about the South Sound Wedding Show - Tacoma and Brides Against Breast Cancer in Tacoma. Be sure to watch the morning news (or record it) on Friday ...   More »

Exciting new wedding show

Brides- and grooms-to-be will receive bags filled with treasures, coupons, and copies of South Sound Wedding & Event Magazine at the show. Plus, prizes will be awarded hourly.See the latest hairstyles, makeup, gowns and apparel ...   More »

Gluten-free foods

At our recent NACE meeting, hosted by Occasions Catering & Special Events in Olympia, our guest speaker, Shelly Pierpoint, spoke about gluten-free foods. Shelly wrote a book about gluten-free foods.She described her personal experience with ...   More »

Makeovers bring smiles

After answering the questions, “What do you love about your face? What do you hate about your face?” posed by Jilladair Carlson, she reached for her makeup brushes and started working her magic. In one ...   More »

Indian Summer Golf & Country Club

Seated at round tables decorated with hand-painted ceramic pitchers filled with freshly-cut brightly colored flowers, we enjoyed a fabulous dinner at Indian Summer Golf & Country Club. The Tacoma chapter of the National Association of ...   More »

Greater Tacoma Convention & Trade Center

Last night's open house featured fabulous, freshly cooked seafood, mojitas, and other fine foods by ARAMARK's chef and his staff. Frei Brothers Reserve  and Louis M. Martini offered delicious beverages. There was a colorful cheese ...   More »

Need a DJ?

Professional and experienced DJs will play the right tunes to keep the party rollin' whether it's a wedding reception, anniversary party or a prom. They have a large selection of music and can play requests. ...   More »

Brides buy shoes

Brides spend between $83 to $94 on their bridal shoes to go with their gown, according to The Wedding Report. These are national statistics.For bargain prices on shoes this month, check out the shoe clearance ...   More »

Everyone loves a muffin

For people with celiac disease or food sensitivities, eating gluten-free and allergen-free foods is a lifesaver.If you have guests who eat special diets coming to your wedding reception, make arrangements with your South Sound caterer ...   More »

Newly engaged?

Come to the South Sound Wedding Show - Tacoma to talk to the experts. The two-day show, Sept. 26 - 27, features a large gown sale by Brides Against Breast Cancer, a fashion show on ...   More »

Decorate your reception hall

Cover unattractive or boring walls with floor-to-ceiling drape, add some dynamic up-lighting, and you have a warm and colorful reception room. Drapes are available in a wide variety of textures, colors, and sizes.No one will ...   More »

City of Lacey

For an historic setting, visit the Jacob Smith House in Lacey. It offers and indoor and outdoor setting for smaller weddings, receptions and events. The beautiful park-like setting has a gazebo and a view of ...   More »

Courtyard by Marriott

Guests will call it home during their stay. The Tacoma hotel's event spaces are available for weddings, receptions, celebrations and conferences or other events. It's a beautiful place for your wedding guests to stay. They ...   More »

Rock Creek Gardens has Open House

Rachael, our marketing and event specialist, went for her first visit.Located in Puyallup (South Hill), Washington, the venue is absolutely fantastic for an outdoor summer wedding. It features long, wandering stone walkways through a beautiful ...   More »

The comforts of home

The door is marked "home." It always means, welcome. -- Mary Anne Radmacher, from her newest book, may your walls know joy . . . This colorful coffee table book is ...   More »

Port Gamble's new wedding facility

Today we went to the private party celebrating the opening of the Hood Canal Vista Pavilion at Port Gamble. The beautiful new facility overlooks Puget Sound. The grassy lawn in front is perfect for the ...   More »

Pets participate in South Sound weddings

Pets are an important part of our families. More South Sound couples are including their pets in their wedding ceremony. Sometimes they are the best dog or the cat of honor. Tasha Owen, of Tasha ...   More »

Most popular wedding colors

The most popular wedding colors in the next 18 months are (in order) blues, purples and greens. When do you choose a trendy color for an accent color? There are more choices in the marketplace ...   More »

Welcome to our new blog

As I meet with South Sound wedding professionals, I learn a lot from them. Their years of experience, along with their creative skills and talent, inspire me. They want the best for their wedding couples, ...   More »

New gown sale in September

Selling for about half of retail prices, there are gowns for brides, bridesmaids, mother of the bride or mother of the groom, as well as gowns for special occasions (prom, quinceanera, military balls). You may ...   More »