San Francisco - April 23, 2008

Dear Thee Beloved

Spring 2008 Wedding Guide

We are gathered here today to join together our reader (your name here) with our  recommendations for a match made in heaven.

Repeat after us: I do solemnly promise to consider the following:

Ring Bearer
Looking for a soup-to-nuts experience in hand making your rings? Visit Adam Clark, co-owner of San Francisco Wedding Ring (1258 Valencia Street; 415-505-1623) and make your bands from start to finish yourselves (literally). Choose from platinum, white, yellow and rose gold among other alloys, melt them down, and mold them into your desired shape.

Sweet Lady Jane
For a truly unique gown, work with local designer Emily Jane Barker of Emily Jane (415-740-7105) to create your dream dress. Pair it with baby blue ballet flats so you can dance the night away.

They’ll All Scream
Cake shmake. Ruby Jewel handmade ice cream sandwiches are a clever alternative, not to mention finger-licking good (available at all NorCal Whole Foods locations).

The Written Word
Save time, gas, and your sanity by creating stunning save-the-dates, invitations, and thank-you notes online at local Gryphon Stationers (415-565-7126). Their sophisticated site allows you to make every little decision (letterpress or engraving, paper stock, ink color, font, and design motifs), preview your work, and make changes every step of the way.

Help Wanted
Just because you’re a control freak doesn’t mean you can take on planning solo (plus, you and mom need a mediator). Book wedding and event designer Julie Nunn Martin of I Do! Wedding & Event Design (415-279-6379) to guide you through every last detail, from dog corsages to vegan catering.

Photo Shop
Hire Justin Ferar of Weddings on Film (415-342-2718) to capture your special day on Super 8 and HD for a noncheesy memento. For snapshots, photog Daniel Lunghi (1223 Folsom Street; 831-224-3338) has a way of saying it all without saying a word.

Set the Bar High
Tired of the overused chocolate fountain and the build-your-own sundae station? Have CocoaBella Chocolates (2102 Union Street; 415-931-6213) set up an international chocolate tasting bar for your sweet stop. Have your caterer pair them with wines for a truly unique experience.

Objecting to any of these might lead to an altar-cation.

More tips? Check out our fall 2007 wedding guide.

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