, Groombug, wedding planning for the groom and his guys,proposal stories


The Herbfarm RestaurantThe Herbfarm Restaurant doesn't mess around, we are talking serious food here! Slow roasted wild king salmon with peas and lemon thyme, carrot ravioli and king bolete mushrooms with currants, fried sage and sage blossoms, wild blackberry and rose shortcakes. Widely considered one of the nation's best, The Herbfarm creates unbelievable nine course dinner menus and wine parings that celebrate the freshest seasonal ingredients from right here in the Pacific Northwest. Reserve your spot at this four hour culinary extravaganza and impress your sweetheart to no end. Then really knock her socks off by reserving one of two plush and romantic Herbfarm suites at the Willows Lodge, or one of their other spacious and luxurious guest suites so she can lay her head on a feather soft pillow and dream about how smart she is for marrying you!

Ready to buy the ring? Need a little help? We asked Emerson Robbins of E.E. Robbins, The Engagement Ring Store, to tell us the top 5 most important things to know when buying a diamond engagement ring. Here's what he had to say

Positive Light Photography


On a late summer evening in 2002, Josh Sapien took girlfriend Cairi to watch the sun set at Queen Annes Kerry Park with a little something up his sleeve. As they sat together overlooking the city, a photographer approached them with an unusual request. Claiming to be from a local magazine and scouting the park for an upcoming photo shoot and article, he wondered if Josh and Cairi would pose for a few test shots. Cairi, a local photographer herself, thought the whole thing was a little odd but was willing to help out a fellow artist in need.

 As they smiled for the camera, the photographer told them that the story was going to be about proposals, and asked if Josh would mind getting down on one knee? Would he mind pretending to propose? Would he mind using this ring he just happened to have with him? Just to get a great test shot to show his editor of course! As the photographer walked over and handed Josh a ring, a real sparkling diamond ring, Cairi began to get the picture. Already down on bended knee, Josh professed his love and asked Cairi to be his wife, and all the while the mystery photographer (an old friend of Josh's from high school) snapped happily away. Married three years this summer, Josh and Cairi have a fantastic proposal story to tell, and they even have pictures to go with it!


Positive Light Photography Do I need to ask her parents?
Its a win-win. If her parents are expecting the asking for her hand ritual, they'll be happy. Even if they don't have those expectations, your future in-laws will be pleasantly surprised. No parents? You can always ask her brothers, her best friend, her barista, you know whats appropriate for your girl. Way to start off on the right foot!

How do I propose?
Think outside of the box, and plan a proposal that will make a great story. Be sure to pick something that fits the two of you. Pop the question at a picnic, on a mountaintop, put it in writing on the marquee of your favorite sports event, or orchestrate a crazy scavenger hunt, and make it memorable. Hint: if you propose on a trip, do it at the beginning so the two of you can spend the rest of the time basking in the glow of "yes".

Do I have to go to every vendor appointment?
Why not? Worse case scenario is you get to snuggle close with your love as she ponders over important decisions like ecru or eggshell napkins. It's your wedding too and you want to dig the stuff you pick. Who knows what you may learn? You may discover you have a passion for peonies or a zest for zinfandel.

Wedding planning is coming a bit more naturally to my bride-to-be than it is to me. What are good things for me to take charge of?
Get your creative juices flowing and concoct a signature drink for your guests. Check out DJs and work your way through your ipod to fill your must play and never, ever play lists. Start researching what you want to wear (suits are making a comeback!). Impress your bride with your very own, super organized wedding binder. Search your town for caterer tastings- you can never do too much food research and you can save your dinner money to spend on your honeymoon!


Positive Light Photography Planning your romantic getaway is one of the best things about getting married. You'll want your trip to be spectacular, so start planning early. Right now, we are in love with Maui. The island boasts perfect temperatures, gorgeous secluded beaches, and just enough nightlife to give you everything you want and need from a vacation.

Check out these hotels and accommodations:

 

Men's Wear
Positive Light Photography

Shes got the dress handled, now what are you going to wear? Check out our list of favorite shops dedicated to helping you find your suit, tux, kilt, or whatever floats your boat for your wedding day.


Accomodations
La Vie Photography

Look no further for the most luxurious and romantic places to spend your first night in wedded bliss. Hotels of all kinds, for couples of all kinds.


Lingerie
La Vie Photography

Give the gift that youll enjoy just as much as she will! Visit any of these fine lingerie shops and let their specialists help you find exactly what you, I mean she, will love.


Jewelry
Positive Light Photography

The ring, its a big decision and you dont want to go it alone. Get guidance and an incredible selection at these amazing fine jewelry stores. With help like this, you just cant miss.


DJs
Yours by John Photography

If music is your thing, then these DJs are for you. From Sinatra to Salsa to Mozart to Hip Hop, theyve got your wedding covered from beginning to end.


Fun Finds
One Thousand Words Photography

For all the fun extras you didnt know you needed. Rent a photo booth, make a website, design a logo, have a blast.