Seattle Best of
Editors’ picks
Prettiest Hair Accessories
Finding bridal hair accessories that are more Carrie Bradshaw than Doris Day can be a challenge. So we applaud Columbia City gal and ARIA Salon & Spa hairstylist Tamara Hamry for creating Love Hair Candy this past January. Hamry’s glamorous, 1920s-inspired hair accessories (about $48) and cut, dyed and styled-to-match, clip-in natural hair extensions (about $250)—are positively regal. In addition to working with jewelry and fine fabrics, Hamry also crafts swank bridal updos.
Eco-friendly Illuminations
We are obsessed with eco-friendly Washington-farmed soy candles from Haley & Company in Snohomish. Available in 50 all-natural fragrances, brides can order from the Rendezvous in Paris line ($11.50 to $18.95); the Bath Bakery line ($11.50 to $16.95); or go Private Label and pick your own glass, scent, design and custom label for wedding favors ($18.95).
Most Kissable Lips
When local makeup artist Suresh Seneviratne launched GlossLuxe, his namesake line of lip glosses, last year we were smitten. But with the introduction this past March of two new Suresh Beauty [[http://www.sureshbeauty.com/ ]] colors we are completely won over. “Anna,” an iridescent honey tone, and “Virginia,” a pink grapefruit shade, are sparkling, sheer and perfectly toned for weddings.
New Bachelorette Party Spot
How do we count the ways we love Elaia, the new green spa at Hyatt at Olive 8 in downtown Seattle? For starters, the spa employs only eco-friendly practices and treatments, including the use of Pacific Northwest–sourced and made products. But the hook is the full spa day for anyone receiving a spa treatment. This means you and your gals can book a mani-pedi, work out in the state-of-the-art gym, hit the sauna and then lounge by the gorgeous pool all day, drinking daiquiris and eating snacks delivered from Urbane Restaurant downstairs.
Activities for Out-of-Town Guests
One of the coolest things about having a Northwest wedding is showing off our spectacular landscape to that most unfortunate of species: out-of-towners. So we love the posh journeys EverGreen Escapes puts together for groups at the Pan Pacific Hotel. Ranging from romantic adventure trips for two to active outings for large groups, day trips can be customized to include stops at wineries or organic farms, gourmet picnics, whale watching or plane rides above the city.
Coolest New Bridal Event
Why are we so smitten with The Battle of the Betrothed, the bridal event launched by The Healthy Bride's Christi Masi this past February? Because it’s fun to watch gung-ho teams of madly laughing newlyweds battle it out to win freebies such as a designer wedding dress, wedding cake, photography package and deluxe honeymoon. Kudos to Masi for organizing such a joyful event, and be sure to sign up online later this fall at The Healthy Bride.
funniest (and most professional) djs
Humor-plus-weddings (too often) equals awful. But in hands of Troy McVicker and Scott Branston, partners in Event Source Northwest, the combination is pure gold. The seasoned pair simply get it, blending the right balance of comedy with music while making room for love and sentiment. These are seriously professional funnymen with a whole lot of heart.
VENDORS’ PICKS
All-Around Best Wedding Vendor
To say that Merry Beth Turpin, owner of Kirkland-based Aisle of View, is dedicated to weddings is an understatement. “I eat, sleep and drink weddings,” she laughs. “You’d think that after 20 years I’d be tired of my job, but I still wake up every morning excited to work. I’m extremely lucky.” And couples are lucky to have Turpin’s extensive experience at their fingertips. She’s planned double weddings, quintessentially Northwest nuptials and celebrations with themes, such as “Disney” and “the Renaissance.” Turpin says her company’s signature is “pulling the uniqueness” from each couple, making each wedding distinctly different, whether it’s incorporating a shared pastime or highlighting the moment the couple first met.
Second Place: The Fairmont Olympic Hotel
Third Place: Rented Elegance & Design
Wedding Planner and Day-of-Wedding Coordinator
Brides dreaming of a spectacular event—and in need of help to make it happen—turn to Stephanie Solomon of Solomon Event Planning. From an elegant backyard function to a downtown extravaganza, Solomon can do it all. Wedding planning goes back three generations in Solomon’s family, and she thrives on continuing the tradition. “I love to meet new people and help them create unique events that incorporate all the elements that are most important to them,” she says. With her full-service event-planning boutique, Solomon can either be there every step of the way or provide expertise solely on the wedding day. Either way, brides and grooms can rest assured that everything will be in place for their celebration.
Wedding Planner
Second Place: True Colors Events
Third Place: Weddings with Wendy
Day-of-Wedding Coordinator
Second Place: Aisle of View
Third Place: True Colors Events
New Wedding Vendor
Herban Feast is taking Seattle by storm. Not only were they awarded this year’s Best New Wedding Vendor, but they also landed Best Caterer and Best New Reception Site for Sodo Park, the company’s chic warehouse headquarters on First Avenue South. Owner BJ Duft takes pride in Herban Feast’s philosophy, which is the antithesis of cookie-cutter. “We use a personalized approach to find out what is really important to each couple so we can create an individualized event,” he says. Herban Feast proudly employs eco-friendly, sustainable practices and has a multitude of farm-to-table connections to ensure that every celebration is not only one-of-a-kind, but kind to the planet, too.
Second Place: Arctic Club Hotel
Third Place: Marrylicious
Wedding Show
When it comes to annual wedding events, The Seattle Wedding Show is the reigning champ, having been voted the best local wedding show in Seattle Bride every year since 2003, the first year of our poll. The upcoming show on January 16 and 17, 2010, is the 20th annual event for founders Don and Barb Berger (read our Q&A with them on page 44), and will, as always, deliver a wide representation of the area’s hottest trends and vendors. From spectacular fashion shows to tasty wedding cakes to hair and makeup to hundreds of dresses, The Seattle Wedding Show has all of the elements needed to bring celebrations to life. The Bergers’ advice: Review a show program before arrival and mark the locations of must-see vendors. Our advice: Wear comfortable shoes, drink lots of water and polish that engagement ring—you’ll be showing it off a lot!
Second Place: Urban Unveiled
Third Place: Panache wedding show
Officiant
Four-time winner Sean Patrick O’Reilly is a vendor and reader favorite because he is devoted to truly getting to know each couple and understanding their love story. “I want to see what the bride and groom see,” he says. “I want to feel what it means for them to walk down that aisle.” As an Irish-American with a strong interest in the traditions and histories of many diverse cultures, Westlake-based O’Reilly is tuned in to the uniqueness of each couple he marries and strives to know them together and individually. His creativity and charisma are evident, but O’Reilly says he is simply “in love with seeing love.”
Second Place: A Heavenly Ceremony
Third Place: David Reed
Florist
*TIE *
John Gardner believes that flowers can be the root of inspiration for an entire wedding. The three-time Best Florist winner and owner of Aria Style in Lower Queen Anne uses unexpected floral combinations and lush, flattering colors, marrying the color theme and the bride’s personality into each bouquet. But his artistry doesn’t stop there: This full-service vendor and his creative team styles entire events—including dresses—using gorgeous props and linens you won’t find elsewhere, as well as rare greens and flowers, making each wedding a singular, wowing event.
First-time winner TJ Montague, owner of 15-year-old Bainbridge Island–based Garden Party Floral Design, is a florist dedicated to sustainability. She finds inspiration from the flowers in her own organic garden to create fresh, innovative looks for brides and grooms. In addition, Montague can arrange for couples to donate their gently used flowers to local charities after the wedding, allowing even more folks to enjoy her beautiful artistry.
Second Place: Bella Rugosa
Third Place: Rented Elegance & Design
Caterer
Herban Feast
Owner BJ Duft describes Herban Feast’s catering style as “light and flavorful dishes with a casual Northwest elegance.” Along with a passion for local ingredients, Duft believes in utilizing fresh, seasonal foods in tasty and inventive combinations. For on-site events at Sodo Park, the company’s hip venue and headquarters, and elsewhere, couples often request an open grill during the cocktail hour for extra ambience. “Guests end up ambling over to chat with the chef and learn the recipe,” Duft says. Savor delectable favorites such as Thyme Crusted Chicken with Cranberry Pear Chutney or work with the phenomenal staff to create an innovative new menu that caters to your individual tastes.
Second Place: Tom Douglas Catering
Third Place: Ravishing Radish catering
Custom Wedding Cakes
Established in 1998 by pastry chef Bonnie Lyons, Lower Queen Anne–based New Renaissance Cakes uses only the freshest top-quality ingredients to craft wedding cakes into beautiful works of art that taste marvelous. Brides and grooms can rest easy knowing their cake will be carefully delivered on time and, if needed, displayed upon an exquisite silver cake stand. It is because of Lyons’ ongoing commitment to flavor, artistry and customer satisfaction that New Renaissance Cakes has made our Best of Bride list every year since 2003.
Second Place: Cakes by crème de la Crème
Third Place: Jen’s Desserts
Groom’s Cake
Mike’s Amazing Cakes
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s a…cake? Mike McCarey, owner of Redmond-based Mike’s Amazing Cakes, is a true artisan who magically sculpts batter and fondant into some of the Northwest’s most creative and customized desserts. From a life-size fish to a scaled replica of the Seahawks’ stadium, no shape or concept a groom can imagine seems to be out of reach. Cakes are made fresh with all-natural ingredients in more than 300 flavor combinations, such as Coffee with Almond Roca Kahlua and Vanilla with Orange Peach Schnapps. Now grooms can have the cake of their wildest dreams, and eat it, too.
Second Place: Tallant House
Third Place: Bakery Nouveau
Custom Dress Designer
From the moment they catch sight of the fabulous window displays at downtown’s Luly Yang Couture, brides know they are in for the experience of a lifetime. Masterful designer Luly Yang creates true couture, and her custom designs are brought to life with the most luxurious fabrics and cut and tailored to fit to perfection. Whether it’s the subtle, draped textures of fine lace and chiffon or a crisp, sculptural A-line of shantung silk, nearly any style is possible under Yang’s experienced hands. It’s easy to see why Luly Yang has become the queen of custom dress designers for the seventh consecutive year.
Second Place: Steven Moore Designs
Third Place: Cicada
Dress Shop
Luly Yang Couture
You’ve found the perfect partner and the perfect site to declare your love. Now it’s time to find the perfect dress. At three-time winner Luly Yang Couture, ace designer Luly Yang not only designs couture but also handpicks designer dresses, jewelry and accessories with attention to exquisite design and detail. In her stylish downtown Seattle boutique, the loveliest gowns stand sentry, the most darling shoes grace pedestals and sparkling jewels and pearl-studded purses gleam within glass cases. Whether a bride is searching for the finishing touch or an entire ensemble, experienced consultants can help her put together the perfect look.
Second Place: I Do Bridal
Third Place: La Belle Elaine’s Bridal
Formalwear
Repeat winner Men’s Wearhouse has nine stores in the Seattle area, the better to get Mr. Right well-suited quickly and easily. Expert formalwear consultants help your guy choose from almost a dozen prestyled looks or build a tux from the shoes up. More than 50 vest colors and style combinations ensure you and your man will enter married life as a perfect match. Best of all, the entire groom’s wedding party can be managed online, with styles starting at just $59.99. Now if only finding the perfect dress were this easy.
Second Place: The Tux Shop
Third Place: Luly Yang Couture
Bridal Accessories
No outfit is complete until it is accessorized, and Tukwila-based All About Weddings delivers the finishing touches. Offering the largest bridal shoe selection around, owner and three-time winner Gayle O’Donnell makes sure brides find their glass slipper, as well as dazzling earrings, pretty pins and trendy shoe clips. With a background in wedding planning and more than three decades of wedding industry experience, O’Donnell knows what brides crave, and so also carries wraps, tiaras, custom veils, handbags, gloves and hard-to-find items such as parasols, making her charming boutique a quintessential one-stop-shopping mecca.
Second Place: Marcella’s La Boutique
Third Place: Luly Yang Couture
Flower Girl Dresses and Mother-of-the-Bride Apparel
Five years ago Erin Green, owner of Bellevue-based Moms, Maids, and More, realized how difficult it is to find beautiful clothing for the other women in the wedding party. Frustrated with the lack of options, she opened her own boutique specializing in pampering everyone but the bride. “You see the relief on their faces,” Green says of the mothers who walk into her store. “We have such a wide range of apparel for different ages and tastes.” When it comes to little girls, Moms, Maids, and More has adorable designs from Little Lady, WaWa, Tip Top and Sweet Beginnings. With shoes and accessories to complete every look, there is no doubt that moms, bridesmaids, flower girls and, yes, even brides, can find something to make them feel special.
Flower Girl Dresses
Second Place: I Do Bridal
Third Place: The Bridal Garden
Mother-of-the Bride Apparel
Second Place: Nordstrom
Third Place: La Belle Rêve
Engagement/Wedding Rings
To Emerson Robbins, founder of E.E. Robbins, the experience of buying The Ring should be as special as the ring itself. Therefore, Robbins offers a boutique-style environment in his Belltown, Bellevue and Tacoma locations with a no-pressure promise. Guys and couples can relax in a love seat with a Jones Soda, Frappuccino or glass of wine while an attentive diamond expert helps them find the perfect fit. Every ring is picked from the world’s top designers based on quality, originality and exclusivity, and on-site specialists can help with custom designs. Robbins is the third generation in his family to work in the diamond business, so there is no question why his famous store wins this award year after year.
Second Place:
Green Lake Jewelry Works
Third Place:
Tiffany & Co., Fox’s Gem Shop,
Alvin Goldfarb Jeweler
Bridal Fitness Plan
Three-time winner The Healthy Bride knows that getting into shape requires hard work and discipline, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. Brides meet other brides during group workouts in the Seattle, Kirkland and Tacoma areas and support each other as they conquer the six-week bridal boot camp. Founder Christi Masi is a cheerleader for healthy living, and her team of instructors has backgrounds in nutrition, yoga and triathlon training. Brides not only get fit, but also learn how to sustain a healthier lifestyle so results will last long after the wedding bells have stopped ringing.
Second Place: NeilStephensGetFit.com
Third Place: Young Pilates & Fitness, Inc.
Hair and Makeup
Tiara Rodriguez-Whitney of Tiara’s on Location wants to help brides “feel beautiful inside and out.” A complimentary consultation at her Renton-based in-home studio ensures brides will love their hair and makeup before the Big Day. But Rodriguez-Whitney says that, ultimately, working on location is more intimate than in a salon. “The hours before the wedding is a girl’s time,” she says. “I’m there to make sure the bride feels comfortable and has everything she needs.” With this three-time winner, brides can relax while they are dolled up to be their most beautiful and picture-perfect selves.
Second Place: Salon Maison
Third Place: Gene Juarez Salons & Spas
Spa for Group Manis and Pedis with your Bridesmaids
Let’s face it: Ladies like to live a little. Pamper yourself and your gals at Julep Nail Parlor. Reserve a group of chairs—or the whole parlor—in downtown Seattle, the University District, Gig Harbor or the new Bellevue location. Custom seating allows parties of six to 60 to sit together and gab while watching DVDs or listening to an iPod. Julep organizes bites through yummy Gourmondo catering, while wine, champagne and cocktails (with a permit) can be sipped in the “drink while you dry” area. Of course, all Julep treatments are eco-friendly and free of carcinogens, additives and other harmful-for-you-and-the-environment additives, so you can get beautiful and feel good about doing so.
Second Place: Frenchy’s Day Spa
Third Place: Spa Scotta
Invitations
Brown Sugar Design aims to wow guests from the moment they pick up the invitation from their mailbox. Husband-and-wife team Jonathan and Whitney Speir pool more than 15 years of combined experience to create fine customized announcements, including “tree-free” invitations made from fabric, 100 percent cotton paper and even recycled metal. With an inspired invitation from Brown Sugar Design, couples can announce their nuptials in style without harming the environment.
Second Place: Little q Designs
Third Place: Merchant’s Paper & Design
Quintessential Wedding Registry
Registering for a wedding can be overwhelming. Should you fight the urge to point the registry gun at everything in sight or scan with abandon? Fortunately, Macy’s makes registering a relaxed shopping experience. Along with the convenience of more than 800 stores nationwide, Macy’s allows couples to manage their registry, guest list and thank-you cards online (macys.com). A checklist is provided to help choose those can’t-live-without items, and a registry-reward program allows couples to rack up points through purchases.
Second Place: Crate & Barrel
Third Place: Mrs. Cook’s
Boutique Wedding Registry
Whether slicing through a tube of prepackaged cookie dough is your idea of baking or if sous-vide is part of your everyday repertoire, Sur La Table can meet your needs. Register for libraries of cookbooks from Julia Child to Jacque Pepin, as well as top names in bakeware, cookware, gadgetry, cutlery and specialty items, such as a margarita machine to help make your housewarming party (and daily dinners) unforgettable. Register on location in Pike Place Market or Kirkland, or go online (surlatable.com) and evaluate your needs from home.
Second Place: Crate & Barrel
Third Place: table top & home
Most Creative Favors
All About Weddings
Your wedding guests are the most important people in your life. Thank them for sharing your special day with personalized favors from Tukwila-based All About Weddings. Customize an item through owner Gayle O’Donnell’s exclusive “Do Me a Favor” line, in which couples create and assemble gifts that are all their own. Or, make it easy and choose from ready-to-wrap bottle stoppers, wine openers, fountain pens or engraved silver and glass wineglasses or picture frames.
Second Place: PS Stores
Third Place: Favors by Eiffel
Place to Buy Wedding Supplies
All About Weddings
After spending almost three decades in the wedding industry, Gayle O’Donnell, the owner of Tukwila-based All About Weddings, has gathered all of the essential items for any size or style wedding in one convenient location. Couples can announce their nuptials with a custom-made invitation (O’Donnell’s selection is one of the the largest in the Northwest) and then stock up on keepsakes, such as coordinating guest books and pens, garters, cake serving sets, champagne flutes, bridal shoes, tiaras, photo albums and pretty much everything else you can think of.
Second Place: PS Stores
Third Place: Good Taste Weddings & Events
Live Band / Entertainment for the Reception
Do you dream of live music but worry you’ll be stuck dancing to just one tired genre? Then look no further than the Michael Benson Band. Along with his fellow musicians, which he describes as “multidimensional,” bandleader Michael Benson delivers a repertoire of songs that covers all of the musical styles from the past century. Talk about band loyalty: The five-member group has played together since 1975, making them experts at packing the dance floor as well as knowing when to take it down. “We’re doing more than playing great tunes,” Benson says. “We’re creating bonds and memories.”
Second Place: Type A!
Third Place: The Craig Lawrence Band
DJ for the Reception
After spending “half of my life” as a DJ, Austin Beaver—formerly known as Nite Lite Entertainment—still loves working in a career that allows him to “help create lifelong memories.” The first-time winner takes the time to get to know his clients so he can blend and mix different genres of music to create the just-right playlist. This personalized approach continually earns Beaver a reputation as a classy, dependable DJ who makes the ambience of each reception as unique as the newlyweds. With Beaver setting the tone, everyone can relax and have fun throughout a night that won’t skip a beat.
Second Place: Wave Link Music
Third Place: Bamboo Beats
Musician for the Ceremony
With almost 30 years of experience and a continuous winner with our vendor voters, Windsong Classical Trio delivers flawless performances and unmatched professionalism. The company comprises 10 musicians, though most couples request an arrangement of two flutes and a cello (those seeking a grand entrance or exit can mark the occasion heralded by trumpets). Founded by award-winning musician Megan Imrie, Windsong offers a wide repertoire of standards and classics, but will happily arrange your favorite pop song for flutes and cellos.
Second Place: The Seattle String Quartet
Third Place: The Bottom Line Duo
New Reception Site
From the exterior, the 102-year-old building now known as Sodo Park blends in with the industrial surroundings south of downtown. The interior—just one year old following a chic renovation—is another story. High ceilings and exposed wooden beams support and complement an urban-loft-like design. Small furnished nooks provide intimacy for cocktails and chatting, while the main area can accommodate a ceremony and reception. Owner BJ Duft, who runs Best Caterer winner Herban Feast from the same space, says he was attracted to the industrial area because it was “funky and different” and knew that he could design an utterly unique venue. “We glammed the site with fresh paint and chandeliers,” he explains, “while keeping the space approachable and comforting—because that’s what we feel Herban Feast is.”
Second Place: Arctic Club Hotel
Third Place: Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
Northwest Destination Wedding Site
Picture the reds and oranges of a romantic sunset reflecting off a sparkling, serene waterfront while a bald eagle flies overhead through the crisp, fresh air. Located on Hood Canal just two hours from Seattle, Alderbrook Resort & Spa creates the perfect balance of feeling far from home while embracing the rustic qualities that are most loved about the Northwest. But there are plenty of luxury amenities, including a full-service spa, PGA-class golf course and four- and five-star meals from chef Christopher Schwarz. Whether yours is an intimate waterfront ceremony or a large formal affair in the Olympic Ballroom, Alderbrook is our vendors’ favorite Northwest wedding destination.
Second Place: Kiana Lodge
Third Place: Roche Harbor Resort
Place for a Sunset Wedding
Featuring a vista of downtown Seattle, the Cascades and the Olympics, The Golf Club at Newcastle has provided the perfect spot for couples to kiss before rapturous sunsets for 10 years now. The popular venue is located 20 minutes east of Seattle in Newcastle, and offers Prestwick Terrace, a tented reception area available year-round; St. Andrew’s Ballroom, with nearly 5,000 square feet of space and an adjoining stone terrace; and various smaller rooms for intimate weddings and prenuptial preparations. Chefs Matthew Whinihan and Carisa Butterworth update the Northwest menus to ensure fresh and delicious seasonality. And the views! Did we mention the views?
Second Place: Shilshole Bay Beach Club
Third Place: The Woodmark Hotel, Yacht Club & Spa
Quintessential Seattle Area Reception Site and Hotel for Guests and Place to Spend the Wedding Night
With exquisite Italian Renaissance architecture, grand circular staircases and a sterling reputation, there is no denying that The Fairmont Olympic Hotel is one of the most beautiful and romantic locations in all of Seattle. A wide range of reception spaces holds appeal: The bright and magical Garden Room stands in contrast to the grand, chandelier-lit Spanish Ballroom, while the newly renovated Metropole room is warm and intimate. The 85-year-old hotel is ideally located right downtown, and wedding guests can relax on down pillows or head downstairs for dinner after a day of sightseeing. The 450 guest rooms and suites (including a posh 1,250-square-foot corner suite) provide all of the best amenities and more, including a health club and a business center. The Northwest’s only AAA five-diamond hotel continues to impress our vendor voters for its unmatched, romantic décor and timeless, warm service.
Quintessential Seattle Area Reception Site Second Place:The Columbia Tower Club
Third Place: Kiana Lodge
Place to Spend the Wedding Night
Second Place: Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
Third Place: Hotel 1000
Hotel for Guests
Second Place: The Edgewater
Third Place: Hotel 1000
Restaurant for Rehearsal Dinner
Tucked into a quiet marina in Magnolia, romantic Palisade restaurant offers more than sweeping views that include the Seattle skyline, Bainbridge Island, Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains. Our five-time winner offers an unforgettable rehearsal-dinner experience. Decorated in Hawaiian koa wood and art glass and featuring a saltwater pond, Palisade introduces guests to the elements of Seattle through taste, sight, scent and sound. Executive chef Mark Randolph masterfully creates delicious cuisine described as “Northwest-themed with Polynesian flair.” The wedding party can celebrate privately in the Magnolia, Orchid or Alani rooms, in an intimate setting with a world-class view.
Second Place: Canlis Restaurant
Third Place: Volterra Drawing Room
Place for Rentals
With more than 50 years in business, it’s no wonder that Pedersen’s Rentals, with its vast array of china, linens, tents and more, can outfit any style of wedding with individuality and elegance. A true one-stop décor shop, the upscale, Vancouver, B.C.–based company offers the new and chic alongside the classic and traditional. “I enjoy embracing different trends and introducing them to Seattle,” sales manager Julie Ralth says. “Chair covers and china don’t have to be boring. They can showcase personality.” From elegant wedding canopies to trendy champagne flutes to a handy Web site (Pedersens.com) for selecting colors and calculating costs, nothing is overlooked at our stylish second-year winner.
Second Place: Grand Events Rentals
Third Place: AA Party Rentals
Valet Services
Five-time winner Butler Valet provides much more than well-parked cars. “Every job, regardless of size, is treated with the utmost importance,” co-owner Stuart Butler says. Guests are greeted by name and the unexpected is always anticipated: Conditions are scouted beforehand and oversize umbrellas are a staple. Butler’s generous “what-goes-around-comes-around” mentality has helped Butler Valet grow to be one of the biggest valet services in the Puget Sound area. It’s good to know that nice guys can finish first.
Second Place: Red Carpet Valet
Third Place: Silver Cloud Valet
Getaway Car / Means of Transportation
Channel your inner celebrity or play royalty for the Big Day and travel in a vintage motorcar from seven-time winner British Motor Coach. Owner Roy DuBrow’s fleet of vehicles includes a 1950 Bentley MK VI and a 1957 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, timeless classics that are especially fitting for nuptials. “A wedding day is one of the most important and unique days of a person’s life,” DuBrow says. “It should be complemented with an inherently romantic and rare car.” Each ride has a luxurious leather interior equipped with crystal amenities to celebrate. Choose a more intimate coach or join the entire bridal party in a stretch limo. And BMC’s reliable, classic customer service keeps them top of mind year after year.
Second Place: Amy’s Limousine Service
Third Place: Blackstone Limousine
Place for a Bachelorette Party
Since opening on Lower Queen Anne in 2003, Chopstix has been helping bachelorettes rock their single days away with its signature sing-along piano show. Thanks to two more locations in Everett and Tacoma, it is even easier to snag the spotlight at the place local vendors have voted the best three years in a row. Reserve a table, order champagne and dine on anything from steak to nachos before the festivities begin. A full bar, if necessary, provides the liquid courage to release your inner Cher. If you really strike a chord with the crew, keep in mind that the talented and entertaining pianists can be hired for your wedding, too.
Second Place: Julep Nail Parlor
Third Place: Old School Pin Ups
Place for a Bachelor Party
Lucky Strike Lanes in Bellevue is no ordinary bowling alley. Come nighttime, the upscale one-year-old digs are reserved for the 21-and-older crowd and a grown-up dress code is enforced. Inside, handsome décor sets the tone for a game-winning night. Black-clad employees tend to your crew whether the party is large or small, strictly private or open to all. Reserve the VIP Lucky Strike Luxe Room with four private lanes, a huge projection screen and a host of amenities. Packages include great food, drinks, bowling, billiards and shoe rentals for groups of eight or more.
Second Place: El Gaucho
Third Place: Tulalip Resort Casino
Place to Get Gifts for Bridesmaids
Your bridesmaids have done their time. They listened intently while you gushed about your first date with your soon-to-be hubby. When you announced your engagement they celebrated as if they had won the lottery. Now it’s time to show how much their loyalty has meant to you, and Nordstrom is just the place to find all the things that will help express your gratitude. Choose gifts from dazzling necklaces to sexy stilettos, from chic purses to silky scarves. Your gals will love your for it.
Second Place: Tiffany & Co.
Third Place: Julep Nail Parlor
Place to Get Gifts for Groomsmen
Nordstrom
Finding the right groomsmen’s gift can be a challenge, but the men who probably knew the proposal plans before anyone else deserve a token of appreciation—at least for keeping the secret safe until the question was officially popped. Whether the guys are stylish professionals or embody a rocker’s soul—or both—Nordstrom’s vast selection of ties, watches, cufflinks and more makes it easy to find something for everyone. The 1901-founded Seattle-based store is now found across the country but is still renowned for its outstanding customer service, making it especially easy if your groom doesn’t share your superstar shopping skills.
Second Place: REI
Third Place: Macy’s
Wedding Photographer
Photography is one of the most lasting elements of a wedding, and Bellevue-based Tania and Ken Shepard and their team of experts at Azzura Photography use their creativity and professional abilities to blend tradition with innovation. Weddings are skillfully captured with an emphasis on highlighting the vibe and personality of the couple and the wedding. The Shepards’ attention to detail extends beyond shooting the little things other photographers might overlook; Tania also styles stunning posed and candid portraits that make every bride and groom look like models escaped from the pages of Vogue. Azzura’s post-production skills are masterful—think high-fashion photography. Packages include the option of digital slideshows set to the couple’s favorite music and prints bound into lavish leather albums to be treasured forever.
Second Place:Stephanie Cristalli Photography
Third Place:Sharlane Chase Photography
Videographer
Edit 1 Media
Thanks to the artistry of Chris and Laura Randall, owners of Federal Way–based Edit 1 Media, couples can relive their beautiful day again and again. The couple uses multiple high-definition cameras and wireless microphones, flattering and dramatic lighting, sophisticated, indie-film-style image treatments, such as cutting from black and white to color and regular speed to slow motion, and the most inventive shot angles capture the essence of the event. Finally, wedding videos are expertly edited with a couple’s favorite songs, guest interviews, still photographs and even custom-designed DVD cases and a movie trailer. What better way to close the honeymoon than with a private screening for two?
Second Place: Bogle Productions
Third Place: Aaron Horton Productions
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