Glitz and Glamour!

"In 1893, George Washington Scribner, being lured into farming by the rich, deep soils of the Sacramento River Delta, settled along what is now called Scribner Bend. The river bend became a vital shipping point, picking up produce, mail and passengers by steam boat.

"The Scribner family ranch runs along the Sacramento Delta where the family has farmed for over 100 years. Their most recent addition is their Scribner Bend Vineyards.

"The original barn built in 1918 was featured in Sunset Magazine’s March issue “Winter Roaming along the Sacramento River” in 2002. Today the barn has been completely renovated and transformed into a unique tasting experience that includes the new Tuscan indoor venue room, tasting room and event for weddings, picnics, birthdays, reunions and more."

I have had the pleasure of performing many wedding ceremonies at Scribner Bend, most recently last Friday (May 7th). The weather was warm, the breeze was minimal, the ambiance was welcoming, and the ceremony was personalized and perfect for Alex and Laura.

On Sunday, May 23rd, from noon to 5:00 p.m., Scribner Bend Vineyards will be showcasing some of the finest wedding professionals in the Sacramento area. I'll be there, and I hope you'll come visit this beautiful wedding venue, enjoy some wonderful wine or champagne, and meet some of the best people in the wedding business!

PS: Tickets are $15 at the door. However, the first five brides who contact me can get in for free as my guest!

Love Cannot Be Hidden

I am reading a little book called "Let Nothing Disturb You." It's a 30-day meditation book based on the works of Teresa of Avila.

Today's meditation is this:

My Day Begins:

The soul that truly loves God
loves all good,
protects all good,
praises all good,
joins itself to good people,
helps and defends them,
and embraces all the virtues.
It loves only what is truly worth loving.

Do you think that it is possible
for anyone who truly loves God,
to care for vanities, riches,
or worldly pleasures and honors?
Such a person cannot quarrel or feel envy,
for she aims at nothing
but pleasing the object of her love.
Whether your love of God is great or small,
it must show itself.
Love for God can never be concealed.

When you love God deeply,
it will be plainly evident in many ways,
for a large fire throws a bright and clear flame.

A love that is strong and just,
that grows for as long as we live,
that there is no reason ever to end,
a love that is returned so fully --
can a love such as this be concealed?

If you ask me how such a love is to be attained,
my answer is:
Resolve firmly to do and suffer for God,
putting your resolution into action
whenever the opportunity occurs.
Your love must not be just something you imagine,
something you desire.
You must prove it by works.


I think this is beautiful, and I would like to modify it a bit, either to include in the "Marriage Address" portion of a wedding ceremony, and/or to offer as a vow that might be included in personal vows.

Is it appropriate for a wedding ceremony? I would love your thoughts and comments.

Love,
Rev. Jeri

Advice from the experts ... married couples!

Recently I posted a question on my Facebook Fan Page: "What is the best love / romance advice you have for newlyweds?"

The respondents varied from a soon-to-be-wed bride (May 2010) to a woman who will be celebrating 55 years of marriage in December! (What an inspiration you are, Nancy!)

Here are some of the responses:

From Nancy G., who has been married for 30 years: Choose your battles, don't dwell on the small stuff, it's not worth it.

From Patty G.: Never go to bed mad or without resolving an argument! ... Happily married for 7 years...together for almost 12!

Carrie P., who will marry Paul on May 29th, says: The most important thing to remember is respect. As long as you respect your partner, and they respect you, everything else will fall in place.

From Kathy H. a newlywed of one year: Never take one another for granted ~ appreciate the little things ~ hold hands ~ put a little love note where it will be found when you are not around.

David B. has this sage advice: Don't EVER say that whatever your spouse does to irritate you, that they remind them of one of their parents .....example: "You act like your Father/Mother!" :(
That's like dropping cluster bombs!!!!!!

And Nancy F., married since December of 1955, says: You must nourish a marriage--it cannot survive without respect, faith, trust , and humor -- a couple may become a family-but they need to always remember they were the original spark-and need to retain their own relationship , as their lives change throughout the years.

Excellent advice, from the experts.

So, what's YOUR best advice on love and romance? I'd love to hear from you!

Rev. Jeri

Creativity!!

I belong to the Sacramento Chapter of a wonderful organization called NACE (National Association of Catering Executives).

What is "NACE," and why would an officiant belong to a catering association, you ask?

I think NACE's Mission Statement says it best: "To provide catering and event professionals superior education, networking & resources to enhance career success and deliver excellence to clients!" And the Sacramento NACE Chapter is composed of professionals in the wedding industry. The best of the best. My favorite people to work with and, once a month, to wine and dine with!

Each monthly meeting features the talents of local wedding professionals: Creative invitations, a wonderful meal in a beautiful location, stunning floral decor, fantastic lighting, photographers and videographers subtly capturing the moments, music to set the tone, and DJ/MC's to keep us entertained.

And, of course, good conversation and an opportunity to get to better know my wedding friends: Their families, their interests, their inspiration, their fun!

Tuesday's NACE meeting was held in the Timbercreek Ballroom at Sun City Roseville , hosted by Jenny Giallanza. Jenny is known for her attention to detail, and she did not disappoint us on Tuesday.

The highlight of the evening was the Second Annual Tabletop Competition, wherein some very talented NACE members create imaginative tabletops which include unique centerpieces, place cards and menus, beautiful linens and tableware, et cetera, to show off their creative flair.

The tables are judged on their creativity, uniqueness and functionality. Outside judges -- NACE members from other chapters; other special invited guests -- as well as the local membership, vote for their favorite. This year's first place winner, Catriona Arcularius of Arcularius Events won for the second year in a row! (My photo doesn't do her table justice; check out the Sacramento NACE website for great photos by Andrea's Images Photography and Siegel's Portrait Design.)

Providing the musical ambiance, and maintaining the flow of activities, were DJs and Entertainment Coordinators Randy and Dina Gonzales of Supernatural Soundz. This husband-and-wife team has been in the wedding and event entertainment business for over 15 years. Although I have worked with them in the past -- and we'll be together again for Natalie and Chris's wedding in June! -- I got to know them a little better when I sat with them at the NACE dinner in March. They are not only excellent in their profession, they are also wonderful, sincere, caring people personally.

At Tuesday's meeting, Randy and Dina impressed me with their quiet manner of keeping the events flowing without being intrusive. I know they can ROCK THE JOINT at other events, but for the NACE meeting it was more appropriate to keep us informed about "what's going to happen next," play great music, and add a little humor and personality to the program without "taking over." It wasn't "all about them," and therefore it was "all about everyone."

Dina and Randy, I'm looking forward to hanging out with you more and more -- and soon!

(And to all the tabletop competitors: W-O-W!! And Congratulations!)

RJM

I vow to bring you happiness, and I will treasure you as my companion.

The love story of Wendy and Jason began three yeas ago, when they met through a friend. That initial spark of attraction grew quickly, and after their first date they were practically inseparable.

And on a warm and sunny Sunday, at the beautiful Croatian American Cultural Center, they were joined in marriage!

Wendy and Jason included Jason’s 2-year old son, Logan, in the wedding by asking him to carry the ring pillow. Logan was accompanied by his older friend, Jordan, as well as the sweet (and shy) flower girl, Theagan. As is often the case, these three stole the show as they carefully walked down the aisle, stopping at the bottom of the steps with a “what now?” expression before running up and standing next to our handsome (and slightly nervous) groom!

Of course, all eyes were quickly turned toward the beautiful bride, Wendy, who entered with her father. Wendy’s parents and stepfather, along with Jason’s mother, all said “We do” when asked “Who presents this woman to be married to this man?” And with that loving send-off, Jason and Wendy stood before their dearest family and friends to say their vows, exchange rings, and begin their married life as husband and wife.

“I vow to bring you happiness, and I will treasure you as my companion.”

Congratulations, Wendy and Jason! (Married April 18, 2010.)

Photographer: Gino Creglia Photography
DJ and MC: Mitch Perez of Showtime DJ Entertainment
Videographer: Eric and Steve of Acti-Video Productions

Got Invitations?

Linda Walker, from Creme de la Creme Paperie and Jenn Hugunin from No Ordinary Day have combined their companies to offer The Most FABULOUS Invitations!

Now brides can choose from beautiful custom-designed as well as catalog invitations. There is an invitation to fit every style and budget, and all can be viewed at the Creme de la Creme Paperie studio in Citrus Heights.

Linda and Jenn are creative professionals specializing in invitations, favors and wedding accessories. As Linda says, "We at Creme de la Creme Paperie can fill every need our brides require, from Save The Date cards to Thank You notes, and everything in between. Our team consists of graphic designers, favor specialists, calligraphers and consultants."

Linda also has a line of hand-painted gift bags, cards and table, wall and chair letters.

The hand-painted letters give a unique look to home decor or can be used as an accent on the couple's cake or gift table.

Every bride wants to make her wedding her own, and Linda and Jenn actively search for unique items to give her day that special touch!

"We pride ourselves in excellent service and exceptional results. We love what we do, and our brides know that we are available for them throughout their planning stages."

By Appointment Only (916-996-4020), visit Linda or Jenn at the Creme de la Creme Paperie studio, located at 7625 Sunrise Blvd., Suite 211, Citrus Heights, CA.

(Photo of Linda from the recent Enchanted Bridal Shoppe open house and fashion show.)

Rev. Jeri

The Calligraphy Girl!

Who would have thought that good penmanship and a love of art in grade school would lead to a business many years later?

Lara Kiniris, The Calligraphy Girl, has been doing hand calligraphy for over 20 years.

She uses beautiful hand lettering to address wedding invitations, create specialty signs, place cards, menus, poetry, and so much more. All work is done by hand, and she doesn't charge extra for rush orders.

A stay-at-home mom, Lara does her work at night, allowing her to spend quality time with her two children, Peter (age 4) and Katie (age 2). (She says she never tires of the silly things that her 4-year-old says!)

As part of the wedding industry, Lara is grateful to work closely with many wonderful people. Among her favorites is Linda Walker, owner and designer for Creme de la Creme Paperie.

For samples of Lara's work, as well as pricing and other details, Lara can be reached by phone at (916) 769-9585 or by email at lara@calligraphygirl.com.

Or visit her website: www.calligraphygirl.com

Rev. Jeri