Dessert Display Ideas | The 530 Bride

What is your wedding style?

Brides are finding freedom with their wedding cake designs, flavors and display options then ever before.  Couples often use their wedding cake and desserts as the focal point of their wedding reception which means it will get a lot of attention from guests.  It's not all about the cake itself, how you display your cake  and desserts can also add to the overall effect.  Display your wedding desserts with one of these five display styles: 

Classic

Rustic

Image via Pinterest

Image via Pinterest

Desserts by Blue Sugar 

Desserts by Blue Sugar 

Chandelier Style 

Image via Pinterest

Image via Pinterest

Dramatic Flair - The Suspended Wedding Cake Stand

platinum-wedding-cake

Image via Pinterest 

Pedestal Cake Stands

Image via Pinterest

Image via Pinterest

Remember your desserts can be an accent, or a standalone feature of your wedding and doesn't necessarily have to jive with your whole "theme" or specific palette.  Go for a personal touch or use materials that really create a focal point for your reception, and if you need ideas ask your wedding planner, or consult with your photographer as they will know the types of materials that photograph well. 

~ Happy Planning 

Making it Official | Marriage License FAQ's

The run down on applying for a marriage license .. tips and frequently asked questions

The marriage license is what seals the deal folks! All of this time spent thinking about your timeline, photos, flowers and the buffet.. don't forget to schedule a time to go to your county clerk's office together and sign on the dotted line! 

A snapshot of an application for a marriage license, courtesy of Butte County Clerk Recorders Office

A snapshot of an application for a marriage license, courtesy of Butte County Clerk Recorders Office

Here are some questions that we get often: 

  • We are getting married in another county, do we apply in the county we live in or the county we are getting married in?  You will apply for the license in the county you live in, and the ceremony can be performed anywhere in California. 
     
  • Can we apply online? No, both of you will need to be present
     
  • What forms of ID are required?
    Typically, you will just need a photo ID such as your drivers license, passport or military ID
     
  • Is there a waiting period? No waiting period; the license may be used upon issuance
     
  • What happens if we forget our license on our wedding day? Hopefully we can send a runner to go get it, but if it is truly not available for the ceremony than you can choose to proceed as a "commitment ceremony" and the officiant will not be able to state that you are husband and wife.  Then most likely you would need to make an appointment with your officiant to sign the license..Unfortunately that document cannot be backdated. It has to be signed on the date is presented. (But hey, that's why you hired a wedding coordinator and you will have us to nag you about bringing that license with you!)
     
  • What if we make a mistake when we are signing our license after the ceremony? Speaking from experience (our officiant signed on the wrong line..fun times) You will have to have an addendum issued by the clerks office.  This just means instead of a one page marriage license yours will be two pages.  

Have more questions? Make sure to visit your local county clerk recorder's website for specific instructions and feel free to leave us a comment or shoot an email to info@the530bride.com 

~ Happy Planning! ~

 

The 530 Bride Anniversaries | Celebrating our 2015 Couples

They say the first year of marriage is the hardest..well it may not always be easy but a successful and healthy marriage takes commitment and communication but it doesn't have to be "hard."  We get to experience all of the planning milestones with our couples from their engagement excitement to bigger decisions and the "busyness" of life while planning their wedding.  When their big day comes and they sign the marriage license, it's real! They are finally hitched. 

After the wedding as life returns to the new normal, there are often big changes like a new home, new jobs or just adjusting to married life.  We wanted to take a moment to celebrate more than just the beautiful dress, decor, and the glow of their magical day. We want to acknowledge the commitment they have made to each other by celebrating their first year of marriage! 

You are my today and all of my tomorrows.
— Leo Christopher
Cate & Chris | 4.2.15 - Photo by Julia Lukash Photography 

Cate & Chris | 4.2.15 - Photo by Julia Lukash Photography 

Merrit & Eric | 5.2.15 - Photo: Katelyn Owens Photography

Merrit & Eric | 5.2.15 - Photo: Katelyn Owens Photography

Teresa & Jason | 7.25.15 - Photo by Wurzbach Fisher Photography

Teresa & Jason | 7.25.15 - Photo by Wurzbach Fisher Photography

Erin & Seth | 8.29.15 - Photo by Artpix Portrait Studio, See more photos of their day here

Erin & Seth | 8.29.15 - Photo by Artpix Portrait Studio, See more photos of their day here

8.29 - Erin & Seth's First Anniversary | The 530 Bride

Planning a wedding all on your own can be an overwhelming task, so when Erin reached out to us and we started talking about everything on her plate, we were more than happy to jump on board.  Erin and Seth had a long distance relationship, not a few hours apart but across seas.  Both of them had demanding jobs and weren't able to devote a lot of time to planning their wedding but that didn't mean they weren't hands on with the details.  Erin found meaning in the small things, no detail left to chance because her wedding and her marriage to Seth had incredible meaning.  

When we sought out venues, we looked for locations that had history and substance as well as industrial or masculine aspects to represent Seth as well.  When we found Miners Foundry, everything fell into place.  Grass Valley and Nevada City are both considered small towns but there were no shortage of creative artists and wedding professionals to choose from!  

Here we are a year later, and still just in awe of how magical their wedding day was.  Life settles back in and a new chapter unfolds in your first year of marriage.  In this case, Erin and Seth welcomed a beautiful baby boy into the world this spring and have many more amazing chapters to come.  Here are some of our favorite shots from their wedding captured by Artpix Portrait Studio! 

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Her incredible gown and cathedral veil, Miosa Bridal Sacramento 

Her incredible gown and cathedral veil, Miosa Bridal Sacramento 

Make-up by Danae Marie's Salon & Boutique

Make-up by Danae Marie's Salon & Boutique

Bridal Bouquet by Cambray Rose Florist 

Bridal Bouquet by Cambray Rose Florist 

Draping by TinRoof Farmhouse 

Draping by TinRoof Farmhouse 

Aisle Decor by ArtinBloom Floral Design 

Aisle Decor by ArtinBloom Floral Design 

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Erin & Seth's wedding weekend was romantic and so special, it was truly just about them as it should be.  These two have had many miles between them for much of their relationship but as husband and wife they will never part.  

Congratulations on your first year of marriage! 

Cheers!
The 530 Bride

Venue: Miners Foundry / Catering: Antonio Ayasteran Catering / Photography: Artpix Portrait Studio / Ceremony Draping: TinRoof Farmhouse / Florists: Art in Bloom of Grass Valley and Cambray Rose Florist, Chico CA / Hair and Make-up: Danae Marie's Salon and Boutique / Bridal Gown: Miosa Bridal Sacramento / Rentals Celebrations Party Rentals, Roseville 

6.25.16 - Ashley & Jarrett | Rustic Country Wedding Colusa CA

There was the most relaxed vibe on Ashley & Jarrett's wedding day, like everything had fallen into place just as it should.  These high school sweethearts were ready to make it official!  

We started planning Ashley & Jarrett's wedding and instantly fell in love with their love! A classic high school sweetheart story always tugs at our heart strings but it was the way that Ashley seemed to be always be smiling when she talked about Jarrett that sealed the deal.  We had never planned a wedding on a pig farm before, but Ashley had every base covered like a pro and she made our job easy by choosing amazing vendors to help every detail come together.  We couldn't be happier to have been a part of their wedding day, and wish them a lifetime of happiness!

Thank you to Bill Payne Photography for sending us some of the highlights of Ashley & Jarrett's wedding day and we are excited to finally share them on our blog! 

Ashley & Jarrett Wedding Day_Bill Payne Photography
Bridal Party_Bill Payne Photography
Groomsmen_Bill Payne Photography
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Bride & Groom _ Bill Payne Photography

Can we talk about this bouquet for a minute? The Country Florist brought Ashley's vision to reality and we were in love with all of her florals. Just breathtaking!

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Yes, it was a large wedding party and yes it was so worth it! These folks had a blast and helped make Ashley & Jarrett's wedding day so special!

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Ashley & Jarrett's wedding monogram was used throughout her wedding, so it was only fitting to have their monogram be the staple of the evening and up in lights on the giant hay bale wall! The Wedding DJ was amazing with all of the lighting used, it transformed the ranch into a magical place! The moral of the story, is that a couple's love is what make's the wedding oh and don't underestimate a pig farm! 

Venue: Private Family Ranch, Colusa | Photographer: Bill Payne Photography | Videography: Eventide Visuals | Florals: The Country Florist | Catering: Special Times Catering | Cake: Cinful Desserts | DJ: The Wedding DJ | Rentals: Party Dog Rentals | Draping: WeDo Designs | Photo booth: New Vision Media 

~ Happy Planning ~ 

Northern California Wedding Planner | White Ranch Events ~ Jenna & Nick

As a wedding planner we often get to see the moments that have been dreamed of for months or even years of planning.  The deep emotions, intimate memories and excitement for the future all wrapped into one day is pretty powerful.  Over the years we have truly been blown away by the incredible love that we witness, and we think back to these moments and memories often.  Having this sweet video of Jenna & Nick's wedding day is a testament to the value of wedding videographers and just how precious it is to have this day captured! 

Thank you Escena Media for your beautiful work!
 

Videography by Escena Media 

Northern California wedding planner | the palms Pavilion ~ Melissa & G

Friends forever and good times for life! 
beck-wedding dress

Melissa & Gregorio (affectionately called "G") have a chemistry and a coolness about them that only two people who are completely made for each other could have.  Their friends and family are a tight knit group who really keep the party going just about anywhere they go.  We knew this wedding would be fun, laid back and an event her guests would definitely enjoy.

We loved coordinating Melissa & G's wedding and glad that we didn't miss this party. 

Thanks to Justin Buettner Photography for sending us the highlights! 

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Venue: The Palms Pavilion // Rentals: WeDo Designs // Florist: Cambray Rose Florist // Caterer: Norcal Catering // Photographer: Justin Buettner Photography // Cake: Lovely Layers // DJ: The Wedding DJ // Coordination: The 530 Bride 

2.20.16 Cassie + Jaime | Lakeside Pavilion Wedding

Cassie & Jaime's day was filled with so much love and appreciation for their families support, it was beautiful to see how influential their parents were in their lives.  These two chose details that were classy and meaningful to them such as the hanging banners and Mexican wedding cookies, and they weren't afraid to have fun!  

Be Authentic Photography captured so many beautiful moments from their day, here are some of the highlights. Be sure to check out their full blog post here! 

It was an honor being a part of Cassie & Jaime's wedding day, and a big thanks to all of the vendors who made it so special for them!

Venue: Lakeside Pavilion // Photographer: Be Authentic Photography // Caterer: Special Times Catering // Florist: Cambray Rose // Rentals: Party Dogs // Specialty Linens: WeDo Designs // Coordination: The 530 Bride 

Connect with The 530 Bride on Instagram, here's our latest post: 

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11.07.15 Jacyln + Kevin | Tuscan Ridge Golf Course Wedding

Jackie & Kevin shared their love story with their wedding guests in a unique way, their photographer Christopher Armstrong captured a short video during their engagement session asking questions of how they met, how they knew that the other was "the one".  It was intimate and heartfelt, just like this sweet couple.  We were honored to be a part of their wedding day! 

Jackie & Kevin Rings
Rustic Ceremony Details
Jackie & Kevin Ceremony
Jackie & Kevin Ceremony Photo
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Jackie & Kevin Wedding Cake
Jackie & Kevin Wedding Party
Jackie and Kevin Wedding Day

Venue: Tuscan Ridge Golf Course // Coordination: The 530 Bride // Wedding Cake: Cinful Desserts // Photography: Christopher Armstrong Photography // Video: Luke Scherba // Flowers: MC Floral Dreamworks 
 

Terri + Albert | Rustic TJ Farms Wedding

This family does everything together, like plan three weddings in one year!

We instantly fell in love with Terri and her contagious smile, she laughs and she enjoys life period.  The love that she has found with Albert is simply fate, and being a part of their day was refreshing and fun! 

Thank you to Trevor & Jordan Clavorie who shot this wedding, the photos captured their joy and love on this special day! 

Photo by @TreClav

Photo by @TreClav

Florals by Expressions M & T

Florals by Expressions M & T

Terri & Albert Wedding Rings
Florals by Expressions M & T 

Florals by Expressions M & T 

That's right, all three of these lovely sisters said I Do' in the same year! Photo by @TreClav

That's right, all three of these lovely sisters said I Do' in the same year! Photo by @TreClav

Terri & Albert Wedding Party
Photography by @TreClav 

Photography by @TreClav 

Photo by @TreClav, Custom Arch by WeDo Designs 

Photo by @TreClav, Custom Arch by WeDo Designs 

The one thing that couples forget when planning their wedding day

All good things (even epic wedding days) come to an end.. what is the game plan when the DJ plays the last song and everyone is heading to the after party? 

Who cleans up?
Who is taking your left over food, cake, gifts etc?
Who packs up all of your belongings? 
Who will return all of your rentals (cake stand, glass centerpieces, easels etc) on the next business day?

The point is that while planning your wedding it is easy to only focus on what it will take to get you down the aisle and to have a seriously good time - We totally get that ;)  As a wedding planner we hate to hear about the couples who had to clean up their own wedding because no one planned out that aspect ahead of time.  Make sure to consider the clean up when selecting your venue, rental companies and all service packages.

We want the end of the night to be as smooth and stress free as the day itself and when planned accordingly, it totally can be!  Oh and we really don't want your mom, aunt, best friend, or brother to be hauling your stuff to the car at midnight.  That's why you want to hire a wedding planner!

Your wedding planner will be responsible for thoroughly reviewing all contracts/invoices with vendors so that we are 100% aware of what needs to be returned to vendors after the wedding and when it needs to be back.  Keep in mind that for some rentals you have a security deposit so if the cake stand needs to be returned by tuesday (clean and free of any cake/food residue) then we need to ensure it has been washed and that it will be returned so that you receive your deposit back.  

Make sure to discuss clean up with your venue to make sure that you understand what condition the venue needs to be in by the end of the night or next morning.  Is someone responsible for taking the garbage to the dumpster, sweeping the floor, stacking chairs etc? These are not details that you want to forget and they need to be addressed within your timeline and wedding agreements with all respective vendors.  

Have questions about what a wedding planner does? What is the difference between full service planning and Event Management or "Day of" services? Check out our Services page to find out more.

~ Happy Planning ~

Wedding Tips | Making the Most of Your Engagement Photos

You're Engagement Session is Scheduled..It's Getting Real! 
Photo via Minted

The first rule is to think of what scenes would feel the most authentic to you as a couple? Are you super fans of a local micro-brewery, or maybe there is a family cabin that is your home away from home.  Choosing a location that makes you not only feel comfortable but that highlights your love story is one way to make the most of your session.  

Wardrobe: After you have selected your location, talk with your photographer about his or her recommendations on wardrobe for the specific lighting and desired look.  Then choose a few looks that are easy to change into for example jeans and a cute top for one look, throw on a cardigan to change it up and lastly for the third look switch the jeans for a cute maxi or pencil skirt depending on the vibe.  (Tip: Bring a blanket along not only to give you the option to sit down but your sweetie can hold it while you change if needed) Finally, bring a few statement pieces like a chunky necklace, or colorful bangle bracelets, watch etc for the nice close-up shots of your hands and that beautiful ring. 

Make-up: Wouldn't it be nice if you had your own personal glam squad? Sometimes it works out to schedule your hair and make-up trial on the same day as your engagement session.  This is great for seeing how your make-up look photographs and it may give you that extra boost of glam confidence.  If you are doing your own hair and make-up for the shoot, be mindful if you are shooting outdoors that wind can blow your hair around and you may have to keep adjusting before each shot.  An updo, bobby pins or some hair accessories are helpful to avoid any hair malfunctions! Eye make-up can always be a tad more dramatic for photo's but you shouldn't need to wear extra blush or bronzer depending on the lighting. 

Enjoy a cocktail or cozy beverage before you begin shooting, it can help loosen both of you up and get you ready to smile in front of the camera.  Some couples have even opted to take some photos that include them loosening up at their favorite pub or cafe.  

Have more questions? Chat with your photographer and wedding planner to relieve any of your pre-session nerves!

Tips for Creating An Authentic Wedding Day | Wedding Planning Tips

We are obsessed with authentic, and personal events so here are a few tips to keep in mind for your planning!

MAKE YOUR GUESTS COUNT  
Photo by Jesse Holland via Style Me Pretty Vault 

Photo by Jesse Holland via Style Me Pretty Vault 

Give your guests opportunities to interact with your wedding day, allowing them to leave a mark and a memory for you to enjoy for years to come.  Photobooths with funny props have been a hit, but for if you are looking to class it up consider an open booth or photo backdrop.  We are loving this idea on Style Me Pretty, a chalkboard message for the bride and groom could be beyond special.  

GET PERSONAL 
Image via Southern Weddings 

Image via Southern Weddings 

Leave a handwritten or personalized note for each of your guests, whether it be incorporated into the place setting or escort card. Take this opportunity to thank them for their journey across state for your wedding or for being a longtime friend.  Tear jerker alert: just wait until mom and dad read their hand written note! 

Think of your guest list and how each person that attends your wedding has a unique tie to you and your fiance.  Maybe they played little league with you, or they were your fiance's roommate in college.  Play clips of songs that bring back good memories, or incorporate that little league team name into your note at their place setting.  

WATCH OUT FOR TRENDS
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Trends can be gorgeous, as long as they mean something to you. When it comes to wedding planning, don’t feel obligated to strictly follow what you see trending on sites like Pinterest. 

"The thing you need to be careful with trends is that is it just a fad? Is it something you’ll want to look back on 10, 20, 50 years from now, and will you want to show your children? When they ask about it, you don’t want to say, ‘Oh, it was because there was this movie out! - if it’s personal and it’s important to you, then go for it!"
Bruce Russell via Bridal Musing's
 

TELL YOUR LOVE STORY 
Patrick Ranch Wedding, Chico 

Patrick Ranch Wedding, Chico 

Tell your love story in not only the obvious details but the subtle ones too! Use your ceremony programs, reception signage or even fun photos around the venue that document what it is that has drawn you together in the first place.  Guests want to be connected with you and they are here to celebrate the both individuals and the relationship promising forever.  

~ Happy Planning ~

The 530 Bride offers Creative and Affordable Planning and Coordination in Northern California.  If you are looking for a wedding planner in Yuba City, Gridley, Chico, Redding, Chester, Nevada City or the surrounding areas please check out our services page, and contact us for a complimentary consultation today! 

Welcome to Our Cozy New Space | Chico Wedding Planner

We couldn't wait to show you a peek of Chico's newest wedding planning studio!  It's a space just perfect for getting to know our clients better, working on creative projects and attacking that wedding to-do list.  

the530bride.officespace

We have to give a shout out to Platinum Productions, who invited us to move into the space and it has been an inspiration to get to know Sana and his team.  His passion for his business and his spirit for giving back to the community is contagious.  Make sure to follow #payitforwardninja on Instagram and you'll see the latest adventures!

Next on the agenda is preparing for the Chico Bridal Show on January 10th, at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds.  Check out the website for more details, and stay tuned for your chance to win free tickets to the show! Here is a shot of our booth from the August Show, we had a blast meeting so many new couples and seeing all of our favorite wedding professionals. 

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~Happy Planning~

Shopping Small | Gift Guide

Finding the perfect gift for all of your special peeps? The struggle is real! 

We are in love with the shop small movement and all of the master creatives out there who run their own etsy shops or storefronts, work from home, or collaborate locally.  Lucky for us we follow an amazing group of talented creatives so we are sharing a link to check out and cross off all the goodies on your gift-giving list.  

Already done with your Christmas shopping? (Hey, no bragging) Keep this gift guide in mind for bridal party gifts, guest welcomes, home decor, or heck tell santa to sneak a little something into your stocking! 

~Happy Holidays~