"530" Venues: Outdoor Rustic

Northern California offers an array of beautiful outdoor wedding venues, perfect for your big day.   Here is a quick look at just a few highlights of your options in the "530 area."  

willow creek eventsWillow Creek Events Situated on acres of manicured lawns and canopied by huge oak trees, offering multiple ceremony and reception areas to best suit your needs including a 4000 square foot tent, or indoor barn. http://www.willowcreekevents.net; Photo Credit: Willow Creek Events

gover ranch Gover Ranch Located in the oak-covered foothills of Northern California, Gover Ranch is a very special place to enjoy the most meaningful occasions and to create memories that will resonate for years to come. Within the grounds of what was once a working ranch, century-old structures are surrounded by lush gardens and sprawling manicured lawns. http://www.goverrancheventcenter.com; Photo Credit: Gover Ranch Events

 

TJ FARMS TJ Farms - Chico Surrounded by idyllic green orchards on a country lane, and the grounds are immaculate — you'll find waterfalls, fountains, ivy-covered trellises, a pristine gazebo surrounded by flowers and gently sloping lawns perfect for mingling. Dignified old walnut trees shade the beautiful Southern colonial mansion on the farm. http://www.tjfarmsestates.com; Photo Credit: Drozian Photoworks

 

white ranch

White Ranch Events - Chico Surrounded by acres of gorgeous scenery, the White Ranch offers the beauty and privacy needed to make the most of your special day. Let the winding paths guide you through a natural setting lined with sprays of flowers, lush, green vegetation and peaceful fountains. http://whiteranchevents.com; Photo Credit: Kim James Photography

 

Honker Bay Honker Bay Ranch - Oroville Surrounded by lush greens, offers bridal quarters and plenty of room for large events. http://www.honkerbayranch.com Photo Credit: Honker Bay Ranch

02_Patrick_Ranch_Chico_California_Wedding_Photo(pp_w890_h592)

Patrick Ranch Museum - Durham This historic venue is located between Chico and Durham, situated on 28 acres of trees and historic artifacts.  A quiet country estate offering the amenities of a state-of-the-art event center.   http://patrickranchmuseum.org; Photo Credit: Josselyn Peterson Photography

taber ranch Taber Ranch Vineyards & Event Center- Capay Taber Ranch is located on a 500-acre working ranch in the scenic Capay Valley and is available starting in early spring through late fall for up to 300 guests. http://www.taberranch.com; Photo Credit: Taber Ranch Vineyards

 

ponderosa ridge ranch Ponderosa Ridge Ranch - Anderson Ponderosa Ridge Ranch Offers a Truly Personal and Unique Wedding Experience. Offering creekside and barn ceremony sites. http://www.ponderosaridgeranch.com Photo Credit: Ponderosa Ridge Ranch

tbs ranch TBS Ranch & Estate - Palo Cedro TBS Ranch & Estate is a place where old west meets modern day facilities, rolling grassy hills with mature oak trees.  Banquet facilities are within a large classic barn and can be used for dinner and dancing.  http://www.tbsranch.com;  Photo credit: TBS Ranch & Estate

Want to see more venues in your area? Leave a comment of what type of venue you are looking for, or send us a message at info@the530bride.com and we will be sure to assist you with some suitable options!

Pre-Wedding Beauty Trends

1. That Healthy GlowTips-to-Have-a-Healthy-Skin Many brides will start focusing on their skin as the wedding count down begins and want to achieve a "healthy glow."  Consider seeking a beauty professional/estitician for recommendations on products and treatments to help clear up any uneven tones, blemishes etc.

While controversial to some, tanning is often a go-to regimen for brides. There are many ways to achieve this look, and luckily there are sun-free options to consider such as spray tans & lotions.  Make sure to follow safety recommendations with any of these products or tanning services, and be sure not to over expose your skin to any harmful rays.

Remember that staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet will often help improve skin conditions!

2. Hair Extensions feature-hair-extensions Who doesn't want to have the wedding day hair of their dreams?  If aren't naturally gifted with long locks or just want to do something different than your "normal do" consider extensions.  Extensions come in different price ranges depending on how permanent or natural you want them to be.  For example, their are hair pieces that are made to enhance an up-do and can be clipped in easily.  These are much less expensive than individual extensions that need to be glued in.  Natural human hair extensions will cost more than synthetic, but will offer the option to use heat tools like straighteners and curling irons.

It is recommended to talk with your hair stylist regarding your plans for your day of hairstyle, and give yourself time to explore the different options for hair extensions so that you have purchased  them in time for your up-do trial.

3. Nail Care  tumblr_ml242fjr021qkm7v2o1_500 Since the moment he proposed, your nails have become a little higher priority with that rock on your finger. You may have already started taking bette

r care of your nails by using cuticle oil, hand cream or getting regular manicures.  While acrylic or gel nails have been a staple of the wedding day look, many brides are opting for a gel or shellac style manicure.  Prices can vary depending on the application of the nails, and the products used.  Often the bride will schedule a day with their wedding party to get manicures/pedicures/artificial nails done before the wedding.

4. Fitness/Dieting

wedding dumbells Ask any fitness trainer and they will tell you that your health and fitness should not be a temporary goal, but rather an on-going and continuous effort for your own well being.  Realistically, brides may want to shed a few extra pounds or tighten/tone up before their big day.  It is important to try to eat a well balanced diet, and to not do anything extreme to achieve "rapid results" as these types of scenarios are not only dangerous but are usually very temporary. 

5. Artificial Eyelashes eyelash_extension_ba "False" or artificial lashes can enhance your wedding day make-up application and help define your eyes in photographs.  Lashes come in different styles depending on if you want individual lashes, full sets of lashes and will also vary on how natural they look.  A newer trend is to have eye lash extensions applied before the wedding, and often brides will start having this service months before the wedding so that they feel more natural and you can find a good length/fullness that works for you.  Make sure to do your research before having  artificial lash extensions done to ensure you this person has experience and good results with other clients.  Don't be afraid to request to see before and after pictures or testimonials from past clients.

Whatever beauty regimen you decide to partake in, just remember that you don't need to do anything drastic to look stunning walking down the aisle.  Your future husband, friends and family already love you just the way you are! 

Photo Credits 1.http://healthinskin.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Tips-to-Have-a-Healthy-Skin.jpg 2. http://avalon.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/feature-hair-extensions.jpg 3. http://www.nevaeh.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/9/files/wedding-nails/tumblr_ml242fjr021qkm7v2o1_500.jpg 4. http://www.fidelmafitness.co.uk/_/rsrc/1368628324038/wedding-fitness-packages/wedding%20dumbells.jpg?height=530&width=401 5. http://www.tanandglaminc.com/eyelash_extension_ba.jpg

Bridesmaid dress

What's in your wedding day bag?

bride_bag_contents We have all read in the wedding magazines about some of the bloopers that have gone down at a wedding, as simple as someone stepping on the back of your gown and ripping the bustle or maybe the waterproof mascara wasn't all that it was promised to be.  Either way, being prepared is never a bad thing.

I don't like the term "Emergency Kit" for a wedding because it reminds me of the jumper cables and flash light that you keep in your trunk, rather than something to ease your mind on such a big day.

The list of what items are wedding day worthy may seem excessive to some, but could come in handy depending on the circumstance.  I would say the following items are the basics, so we will start with those:

  • Extra Copies of toasts, ceremony information, seating arrangement etc (Just in case)
  • Brides Make-up Bag
  • Mini Sewing Kit
  • Snacks
  • Super Glue
  • Bandaids
  • Pair of flats
  • Deodorant
  • Rubber Bands/Hair Ties/Bobby Pins
  • Wet Wipes/Towelettes
  • Stain Remover Pen or Wipes
  • Dental Floss
  • Tums, Excedrin etc
  • Pack of Tissues

Now here are some items that are also helpful but could be brought in a separate bag or brought by a member of the wedding party if needed:

  • Extra contact list of wedding party, and essential vendors
  • Extra phone charger
  • Sun Block & Bug Spray (good idea for an outdoor setting)
  • Lighters (Keep those candles burning!)
  • Bottles of water
  • Ipod/Music with player
  • Double Sided Tape
  • Safety Pins
  • Plastic Bags for belongings or even for trash bag
  • Tampons
  • Compact Mirror
  • Small amount of cash (just in case)
  • Extra Hair Products
  • Nail File

The good news is that you will be surrounded by your friends and family on your big day, so they will be there to help should you need anything. So pack your day of bag and as always, Happy Planning!

Photo Credit: http://regalodesign.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/bride_bag_contents.jpg

The Big Question

The big question isn't "To be, or not to be" it is "Will you be my Maid of Honor?." This question shouldn't be taken lightly and you can't just ask anyone now can you.. it's sort of a big deal. Sure, you know who you want to have as your maid of honor, but have you considered how you want to ask or maybe you feel that it is a unspoken understanding that if and when you walk down that aisle, your bestie will be right beside you along the way. Either way we think we have found some pretty cute ways to ask:

1. Come right out and ask with a card The Big Question : Wild Strawberry Designed by Eleanor Grosch from: Shutterfly, Inc.

Stylish Request : Bay Designed by Tallu-lah from: Shutterfly, Inc.

2. Put a frame on it Maybe you don't have to ask, it is just a given.. place your fav photo here

Personalized Maid of Honor Frame from: Koyal Wholesale

3.  Pop the question Will you be my

Pop up Message from Etsy

 

See other articles on Will You be My Maid? 17 Fun Ways to Ask...

More products on Etsy

Propose to your bridesmaids

Vegas Baby!

When you announce your exciting news to your closest friends, odds are the responses will be the following: 1. "OMG Congrats, Soooo Exciting!" 2. "Let me see that rock!" 3. "So let's talk bachelorette party details, Vegas?"

Okay so you may have some variations but the general consensus is that your friends are super excited for you and therefore must plan the ultimate bachelorette party of course.  I personally have not done the Vegas bachelorette party, but my girls and I definitely gave Tahoe a run for their money.

If you see yourself walking down the strip in a veil and sash, than this post is for you. 1_Las_vegas_strip

Hotel Stay Before your designated bridesmaid or maid of honor books rooms at a hotel, first make sure that you have a solid head count of everyone who plans to attend and who can agree to put money towards a deposit.  (Tip: Use one credit card, and have everyone pay their portion of the bill to the designated card holder.)

Other things to consider are the amenities included, distance from the airport, and/or to the major attractions or sites you plan on seeing, and the general vibe of the hotel.  (You don't want to get kicked out or anything..)

Attire

When planning the attire for the trip, a good idea is to put together an itinerary first and then plan on what to wear.  For example, decide if the group will explore the town on the first night and eat in, pool day and then a nice dinner afterwards etc.  Some groups decide to do a themed outing like little black dresses (bride wears white, or other color to stand out) costumes, or fun hair/make-up.    Here are a few pieces for inspiration: Mystic Snow White Dress from: For Elyse Inc. Love Stitch Nashville Dreams Dress from: For Elyse Inc.

Stella & Dot Sutton Necklace - White Stone from: Stella & Dot

Stella & Dot Mallorca Chandeliers from: Stella & Dot

Stella & Dot Devon Chandeliers- Silver from: Stella & Dot Women's Shoes - ShoeDazzle - over 3.5" up to 5" Pump - White/ Off White from: ShoeDazzle Women's Shoes - ShoeDazzle - over 3.5" up to 5" Pump - Pink from: ShoeDazzle

Women's Shoes - ShoeDazzle - over 3.5" up to 5" Pump - Pink from: ShoeDazzle

 

 

Sashes, Tiaras & Party Fun The Bachelorette Tiara - $8.99 from: Bachelorette.com Bachelorette Sash - Pink Gemstone from: Bachelorette.com Bride-to-Be Spin Book - Tons of Wild Games! - $5.99 from: Bachelorette.com The 51 Most Popular Drinking Games - $13.49 from: Bachelorette.com

VIP Reservations Planning a trip for a large group can have some challenges, make sure to consider the size of your party when booking tickets, tables and other services.  Additional gratuity may be applied in some cases, so plan accordingly.  There are some benefits to a large group as you can often get into clubs and events and get upgrades such as tables or VIP etc because you are bringing a large group to their venue.  Call around to promotors and event companies to see if there is anything you can do ahead of time to snatch up some perks!

The point of this trip is to have an amazing time with your close friends or family members, so be safe and keep it classy!

 

 

The 530 Bride is supported by affiliate marketing and will feature links and resources to companies and products that may interest our blog readers.  For more information visit our About Us Page.

Wineries in Our Backyard

WineCountry2 There is something about a winery that is just effortless and romantic, making it a perfect location for an engagement party, engagement photography, bridal showers and even an intimate outdoor wedding.  We tend to associate these beautiful winery venues with places like Napa, California or further south but there are locations here in the "530" area that would be just as magical.  Here are a list of some of the local wineries that may be just what you are looking for.

Anselmo Vineyards 28740 Inwood Rd, Shingletown, CA 96088 (530) 474-5546 http://www.anselmovineyards.com

Long Creek Winery Oroville, CA http://www.longcreekwinery.com

Gale Vineyards Durham, CA http://www.galevineyards.com

Dog Creek Cellars Durham, CA http://www.dogcreekcellars.com

Bertagna Son Kissed Vineyards Chico, CA http://www.bertagnawine.com

Odyssey Winery and Vineyards Chico, CA Visit their Facebook page

Rough and Ready Vineyards 17860 Cattle Drive, Rough and Ready, CA (530) 432-7373 http://www.roughandreadyvineyards.com

Vintner's Cellar Redding, CA http://www.222wine.com

 

If you are thinking of a destination winery event, check out this cool resource mapping out the wineries in California!

 

Photo Credit: http://www.weddinglocation.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/WineCountry2.jpg

 

 

Floral Inspirations to Spring For!

Choosing your floral arrangements can be a little overwhelming, but sometimes all it takes is the right mix of color or textures to get you inspired.   Here are a few designs to put some spring in your step when working on your wedding to-do list. 1.  Ombre Floral Centerpiece - Green Wedding Shoes Blog

Ombre Centerpiece

http://greenweddingshoes.com/diy-ombre-floral-centerpiece/

2: Keep It Simple - French Wedding - Style Me Pretty

lavender

http://www.stylemepretty.com/2014/03/27/french-wedding-in-the-countryside-of-bergerac/

3.  Stunningly Budget Friendly - Astilbe The Wedding Flower Spring Flowers

http://onefabday.com/astilbe/

4. Pretty In Peach - Want That Wedding peach http://www.wantthatwedding.co.uk/2012/12/17/pretty-in-peach-wedding-inspiration/

4. Spring Inspired Succulent Bouquet - Aileen Tran Events Rustic-vintage-bouquet2

http://aileentran.com/blog/2011/01/24/bouquets-part-duex/

5. A Bouquet that Pops! spring wedding bouquets, spring wedding bouquet, wedding bouquet

http://perfectweddingcollections.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/spring-wedding-ideas.html

Custom Shapes For Your Cards at Zazzle

2014 Color Watch

pantone-radiant-orchid Pantone has released the Fashion Color Report for Spring 2014 and I think we can work with these colors! My personal favorites are Radiant Orchid and Hemlock, but I am looking forward to seeing Dazzling Blue on the radar as well!

2014 Pantone Color Report

Check out Pinterest for some creative uses of color!

Photo Credits:

http://www.pantone.com/pages/FCR/default.aspx?season=spring&year=2014 http://d1n0t8embjb5t8.cloudfront.net/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/pantone-radiant-orchid.jpg

Bridesmaid style 6697

Sunday Funday..Wedding Style

We are glad to see that so many couples are prepared to take advantage of the Bridal Show for all of their wedding needs, making sure to pre-register and save money at the door is just one of the smart moves they are making. If you pre-registered you will receive your personalized mailing labels with your contact information pre-printed so that you can use them to enter to win countless prizes. If you missed the pre-registration, you can still make your own labels ahead of time and print them from home.

As always we will give a few tips for getting the most from your bridal show experience:

1. Check Your List Be aware of your needs so that can make sure to collect information from exhibitors offering the services you have not yet booked.  For example, if you do not yet have a venue or a wedding coordinator you should be sure to make that a priority.  Take advantage of discounts and special offers, and pay special attention to the expiration (if any) of the offer.

2. Attire Your wedding will give you time to shine, but the bridal show isn't the best place for those new heels you bought.  Your feet will thank us, just be comfortable!  Bring a bag that you will be comfortable holding so that you can easily store flyers and business cards from the exhibitors.

3. Entourage Make a day of it, bring your bridal party as back up just in case you need someone to help you decide which catering sample rocked your world, or to help you cover more ground and listen for your name on the prize announcements overhead.

4. Enjoy This day is about you, and all of the possibilities out there to help shape your big day into the celebration you always dreamed of.  So go ahead, have another cupcake on us!

'I Do' Responsibly

Drink Station Weddings are a time we bring friends and family together to celebrate your new chapter in life, so unless you have chosen to have a "dry wedding" odds are there will be a champagne toast and then some!  You can choose to serve drinks during either the cocktail hour, reception or both.

When deciding on what types of beverages to serve, consider your guests, budget, and the type of atmosphere you want to have. If you are concerned with over indulgence or expense considering limiting the amount of alcohol per guests, or perhaps only offering beer and wine.

Many wedding venues will specify their requirements and limitations with serving alcohol, some may require a licensed bartender, event insurance, and/or an additional deposit. Some may allow you to supply your own alcohol, while others may not.  If you are supplying your own alcohol but don't know how much you need, try the Bevmo Calculator http://www.bevmo.com/Misc/PartyPlanner.aspx

We recommend hiring a licensed and insured bar service to host your event as they are not only great bartenders but they specialize in weddings and events and know how to determine when someone has had too much to drink.  They can discreetly handle this for you without causing a scene, and in the end will help ensure everyone has a safe but responsible evening.  A professional bar service will also assist you with selecting wines & spirits as well as the quantity needed for the size of your event. For help choosing a Bar Service in the 530 area, visit our directory.

When it comes to the end of the night (your wedding night is a blur so take care of these details ahead of time) have a transportation plan in place.  If your location is a distance from town consider a shuttle for larger groups.  Make sure that you discuss vehicles and over-night parking with your venue, you don't want any guests to have their cars towed!

Cheers to an amazing wedding night, and to celebrating responsibly!

~Happy Planning!~

Get The Word Out

At a time of year when many couples are celebrating their engagement, many are looking for fun ways to announce their news & their date to their immediate friends and family.  Call us old fashioned but Facebook just doesn't cut it! Depending on the length of your engagement you can opt for an engagement announcement, save the date card, or even a wedding announcement if you chose to elope and want to announce the nuptials.

Here are a few cute ways to spread the news!

Charming Chalkboard Save the Date Cards

Our Love Story Save the Date Minibook™ Cards

Wood Carving Save the Date Cards

Stache + Kiss Save the Date Cards

Engaged Engagement Party Invitations

E is for Engaged Engagement Party Invitations

Darling Deuce

Finally Engaged

Keep in mind, announcements like these do not have to correspond with your wedding theme as you may not have even defined what your theme is yet at this stage of the game.  If you already have your theme in mind, or would like to create one from scratch and want to work with a local designer you can head over to The Idea Emporium and get started on branding your wedding!

__________________________________________ **Disclosure: The530Bride is an affiliate of Minted.com and TinyPrints.com, we only list and recommend products and services from companies that we have personally used and believe are a good fit for our readers.  We may receive a commission from products purchased directly from sponsored posts.  For more information please contact us.

Featured Venue - Gale Vineyards

Between the shady avenues of the vineyard, a secret oasis awaits you. Soaring groves of bamboo, oak, and sycamore cast shadows as you meander throughout the gardens, taking in the smells of warm earth, rich soil, and Italian grapes.you've arrived- Welcome to Gale Vineyards.

Features include Koi Ponds, Outdoor Lighting, Private outdoor setting

Gale Vineyards 281589_172012436205264_3384686_n

 

photos courtesy of Gale Vineyards

Fore more information please contact this venue directly:

Gale Vineyards Durham, CA

 

Phone (530) 891-1264
Email Steve@GaleVineyards.com
Website http://galevineyards.com/

Plan to Look & Feel Amazing for Your Wedding

As a bride (or groom), our wedding is one of the most important days in our lives so we naturally want to look and feel amazing.  Unfortunately, we often fall victim to the claims of the magic pill or fad diet that will make unwanted weight fall off,..when we should instead be planning on making lifestyle changes to achieve the nutrition and fitness level that we want to reach.  These changes will not only get you in shape for your wedding but will prepare you for the next steps in your life of starting out as newlyweds. If you ask any dietician or fitness trainer there is just no such thing as a quick fix or easy way out, it takes hard work but the results are worth it. Making the decision to change your eating habits and increase physical activity is a more than a challenge, it is a commitment to yourself to do better.  We believe the best way to stay on track is to have a coach or mentor for advice, tips & the education in order to get the best results.  Whether you just want to get toned in certain areas to look great in your dress or if you have more weight to lose it is a good idea to choose the best time and structure to meet your needs.  Group training is a great motivator so that you have encouragement to keep pushing, and the workouts are more varied so you stay interested.

The 530 Bride has teamed up with Paradox Fitness & Martial Arts in Chico to bring you advice on training & nutrition.  From Women's Only Classes to Strength & Conditioning & Martial Arts Fusion they truly bring it on every level, and can help you find what works for you.

Paradox Fitness Photo courtesy of Jeanette Krzyzek Photography

About Paradox Fitness & Martial Arts "At Paradox Fitness & Martial Arts we are committed to providing our clients with the most unique and progressive training techniques in small groups and one on one training. Through cutting edge technique, top notch instruction and unyielding motivation, we will help our clients achieve their athletic best and empower them to live life more fully. Paradox Fitness & Martial Arts is managed by its founders, Paula and Micah Hankins, who developed the facility out of a desire to have the most highly trained and educated clients while providing them the most unique atmosphere found in any fitness facility."

Stay tuned for some sweet work out tips & nutrition information from Paradox Fitness! In the mean time check out their website and contact information to learn more.

Paradox Fitness & Martial Arts (530) 774-3902  |  986 C1 East Ave. Chico, CA https://www.facebook.com/paradoxfitness