I'm sorry, did someone just say cheese?

Never before has a vendor who specializes in cheese contacted me.  But when Brandon Weeks, owner of PDX Cheese Works wanted to get in touch about providing a unique culinary experience at wedding receptions and other events, I was intrigued.  Sure, I'd be happy to talk about cheese. 

Read on to learn more about what Brandon and his team at PDX Cheese Works can do to make your reception stand out from the rest.

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It is always a pleasure to meet with wedding photographers.  Their styles are all unique and their backgrounds equally varied.  Melissa Tomeoni, owner of Soul Mates Photo, and I met at a coffee shop where I peppered her with questions.  Melissa answered all them gracefully, even the strange ones, such as "what is your favorite book and why?" 

Melissa brings a unique approach to photography, having trained in fine arts before pursuing her career in wedding photography.  During our discussion, it became evident how much of an influence those early years in art have on her current portfolio.  She is very interested in the composition of each photo, and even has a detailed lesson about it on her blog. 

Learn more about Melissa and the incredible pictures she can capture for you on your big day.

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Amber Darrington runs Le Cookie Monkey in Portland.  Petite and bubbly, she is giddy to discuss all things cake and dessert with me.  She even warms my heart by bringing cookies to our meeting.  Not just ordinary cookies, however.  These are chocolate cookies with white and dark chocolate chips and dried cherries mixed in.  I show incredible restraint by sharing with my husband rather than eating all five of them myself.  The cookies are soft and chewy, absolutely perfect!

But enough about me and my cookie-eating habits--read on and learn more about Le Cookie Monkey, the awesome cakes and cookies Amber can whip up for your wedding, or anytime you need a super-fabulous treat.

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Mallory and Patrick

I am pleased to announce that we have a winner from the Kim + Phil Photography Promotion!  Mallory stole the hearts of Kim and Phil when she described her incredible engagement story which happened in Disneyland.  Kim and Phil love all things Disney, and who can blame them--who does not love the happiest place on earth?!

Many thanks to all of the brides who entered their stories, we really appreciate your doing so.  Kim, Phil and I were blown away with how romantic, creative, and spontaneous the stories were.  I believe Kim + Phil have graciously extended a discount to all those who submitted a comment, and I hope you take them up on it.  I also want to thank Jennifer with Face Body Beauty and Nicole with Nicole Wagner Makeup for telling their brides about the contest. 

Stick around for more contests, I am bound to think of something soon!  Maybe something edible?

It's On, Ladies.  BABC is Back.

I want to remind all Portland and Vancouver Brides put on by an organization called Brides Against Breast Cancer. At this event you can search through thousands of gowns. Gowns are priced between $99 and $799. There is also an enormous selection of veils, in all lengths. More importantly, the proceeds from this nationwide traveling dress sale benefit the Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation, which grants wishes to those battling metastatic breast cancer.

I can tell you from experience this is a fun event. I purchased my bridal gown in October of 2007 at this sale. It was a Christos gown made of ivory taffeta and there is no way I could have afforded it had I purchased it new from a bridal salon. I tried it on, loved it. I looked at the label, thought about how much it would cost full price, and sealed the deal. My gown cost $650. My mom and I selected the perfect veil for $35. However, I tried on equally wonderful gowns that were between $100-250 as well. This tells you, there is enormous selection!

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Oh, the joys of chatting about wedding day beauty with Jennifer Walker of Face Body Beauty.  Jennifer loves makeup and up-dos, and adores her bridal clients.  With Jennifer's on-site makeup and hair services, you can kick back and enjoy the primping process with your bridesmaids.  Jennifer also teaches makeup lessons, which is perfect for updating your everyday look and learning new techniques.

Jennifer has two locations, one in Portland at Union Station, and one in Salem.  These offer flexibility for brides looking to schedule their hair and make-up trials.

Learn more about Jennifer's love of wedding day beauty and the trends for 2010.

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