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BEAUTY   -   WEDDINGS & EVENTS
Weddings by the Numbers
March, 2009 - Issue #53
photography by William Innes

240 the average number of minutes you've booked for your reception site

90 the average number of minutes a discount tea light burns

Your centerpiece candles shouldn't flicker out before the real magic even starts. Pick up 100-percent soy tea lights made by Beanpod. They'll cleanly burn for at least four hours and are available in a variety of fashion colors to better coordinate with your event. Available at Candleman 257-9420.

395 the cost of the "One Camera Deluxe" Ceremony Package by Digital Media Expressions

Note to blissed-out (and exhausted) brides who are convinced that they'll "remember this moment forever": You won't. At least not in every detail. Preserve the walking/talking memories of your special day by hiring a professional videographer. You'll be amazed at what you missed (Dad doing "The Running Man") and what memory you'll never want to be without (how your hubby choked up while saying "I do"). Package includes one pro camera person, titles, music, editing, 15 childhood pictures, cordless mic and DVD copy. Available through Digital Media Expressions 888-595-5590.

0 the number of menus that will be just like yours when you work with a professional caterer

Every aspect of your nuptials should reflect the fusion of two very unique people. A one-of-a-kind Big Day is hard to pull off when you serve the same rubbery chicken guests could score for themselves at the local take-out joint. RSVP - The Catering Company will customize a menu to fit your style and budget (or other elements, like culture, location, season, theme...). You'll work with an event manager who can assist with event design, layout, decor, placement of tables, buffet format and other details. Most importantly, though, your food (and the presentation of it) will be as remarkable as your love for each other. Available through RSVP - The Catering Company 291-1155.

10 the number of guests you plan on seating at each table

8 the number of guests that will actually comfortably fit at each table once you add formal place settings, favors and your signature candelabra

Unless you are a professional planner who also owns an event rental facility, you risk making major boo-boos when it comes to organizing the finite details of your wedding and reception. For your peace of mind (and the comfort of your guests), contract with a full-service company that can advise you on both the color of your linens and temporary venue alternatives - like tenting - should it rain (or scorch) on your big day. Contact A-1 Rentals and Event Services 775-8111.

50 the number of miniature bulbs found on 11-foot-long professional-grade novelty light strand

Couples hoping that their love alone will light the night should also invest in an affordable means of illumination: a special-occasion ambience light display. Tree branches and trunks, aisles, catering displays and more can all delicately glow thanks to professional light display artist Darell Lee. His creations earned him the title of "Light Guru," and his work has been featured on ABC. Available through Magical Moments Lighting 297-7013.

20 number of wedding professionals who will be available to answer your questions at the Bridal Seminar

On Tuesday, February 24, the Santa Clarita Wedding Professionals will host their Bridal Seminar at the Hyatt Valencia. Call for reservations (296-6191) or visit www.santaclaritaweddings.com.

30 the number of days you have, after the date of your marriage, to add your spouse to your healthcare plan (or vice versa)

Discussing post-wedding health care is less romantic, but just as important, as other details. Will you remain on a plan sponsored by your employer? Will you transition to a plan offered by the employer of your new spouse? If you have an individual policy and you plan on hearing the pitter patter of little feet in the future, does your plan provide benefits for maternity? Experts are available to help you navigate the issues of health care at CIS Insurance Services 799-2730.

4 ways to survive your reception
by Alice Goetschel
1. In order to get through the photo session so that you can actually get to the reception, make a list of all the formal photos you want, including the names of family members. Then assign someone (not a member of the bridal party) to summon them for their moment in front of the camera.

2. If you're having a grand entrance, be sure that the DJ or MC has a list of names that are spelled phonetically.

3. Assign someone to carry a small bag with your lipstick, powder, blush and whatever other things you'll need for quick touchups.

4. Bring a second, more comfortable, pair of shoes to change into for dancing.

Alice Goetschel is a professional wedding coordinator and member of the Association of Bridal Consultants 270-9448.

10 the number of opportunities you have to express yourself on your wedding day

A French-tip manicure is lovely, but not exactly a way to flaunt your effervescent personality. Show off bold colors and meaningful designs every time a guest wants to glance at that fab ring. Available at Bellagio Nails & Spa 260-3759 ; ring by Bella Jewelers 255-0819.

3 questions to ask a DJ/MC
by Matt Mitchell
1. Do you specialize in weddings? A DJ / MC that specializes in weddings will know the latest trends, understand tradition and decorum and make sure your celebration is elegant and fun.

2. Can we arrange an in-person interview? You need to sit down with your prospects and interview them. If you're comfortable with them, your guests will be too. You have to trust them, since they represent you every time they use the microphone. Plus, they must understand the focus is on you and your guests - not the entertainer.

3. Is this your full-time career? You probably aren't hiring a hobbyist photographer or a part-time caterer. You need someone who has the time to dedicate to preparing and personalizing your wedding. They need to have enough experience to guide you and offer fresh, fun and creative ideas during your planning sessions - then be able to smoothly guide your celebration from start to finish.

Matt Mitchell is the owner and operator of Joyful Noise Entertainment 296-6191.
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