Oregon Outdoor Weddings!

In Oregon, you rarely know what to expect from the weather. It makes planning spring weddings interesting, to say the least. There is nothing more beautiful than an outdoor wedding with hundreds of tulips and daffodils blooming all around. The crisp, clear air brings a feeling of "new beginnings" to your wedding day.

But we all know what brings those beautiful flowers... the Oregon showers. Downpours at times actually. But don't let THAT stop you! With some positive thinking the weather can easily cooperate for you and with a little pre-planning, you will be able to handle any weather. In Oregon, the chance for rain goes all the way through the summer also, so be prepared.

Tips:

Reserve a tent from a rental company. They will help you figure the size needed to accommodate your guests, tables, food, DJ and even a dance floor. A tent is wonderful no matter what the weather. It protects from rain, wind and even blistering heat.

Have umbrellas on hand for guests and bridal party.

Don't wear spiked heels, try a wedge or square heel. You don't want to be sinking in soft ground.

Tons of Fun can be had once everyone just "lets go" and cuts loose. No more worries about hair, make-up, and looking perfect. Just have fun. It can make for some memorable photos too.

So go ahead and plan that outdoor wedding. It will be special, memorable and fun no matter what the weather does.

Resources:

Rentals Equipment (tent, tables, chairs, linens, dishes, etc) ~ Key Events

Officiant ~ Beverly Mason, The Radiant Touch Weddings

Spring Flowers ~ Punch Floral

Ceremony Musicians ~ Duo con Brio

Reception DJ ~ The Aussie DJ

Photography ~ Wedding Services NW

Extraordinary Wedding Gowns ~ Magnifique Boutique

Hair & Makeup ~ Pretty In Portland

Custom Bridal Jewelry ~ Sophisticated Beads

Catering ~ Portland Catering Company

Videography ~ Asparro Video

Cake & Desserts ~ White Rose Bakery

Honeymoon Travel ~ Sun Connections LLC

What does 2010 have in store for me?

I am at a point in life and in business where I'm not sure where things are leading me. I also follow my instincts and inspirations to see where they may lead. That is what got me to THIS point. My career as a wedding minister lead me to starting a Wedding professionals Networking Group, which lead me to producing Bridal Fairs which led me to Wedding Workbook as an account executive. PLUS, I have also built 8 websites which I manage along with all of the social networking and optimizing that goes with that responsibility.

Before I knew it, I have such a diverse and FULL plate, that it's time to make some decisions. Do I venture out into one of these new avenues which are leading to bigger projects and futures or do I scale back and simply choose one?

I love performing wedding and meeting brides but it is a career that has no growth potential because there is such a limit on available weekends and income to be made. The Bridal Fairs have great potential and i love to plan & coordinate big events.

The Wedding Workbook offers a flexible, good paying position but I don't feel that I can dedicate enough time to it and I've never been a good salesperson. I LOVE marketing and helping businesses but I don't like "selling".

I am no longer enjoying the benefits of being self employed when it comes to spending time with my family. Now I never seem to have time for them either. My original vision of being self employed was with plenty of time to enjoy my children's youth and company of my loving husband. How did I let that slip through the cracks?

I'll think on this a bit more, then pull out the old crayons and start "drawing the line". I must learn to say "I'm sorry, but no", and stop trying to help or please EVERYONE. Selective choices is going to be my new motto.

Bring JOY back to my work and life. Fulfillment rather than Exhaustion.

Okay, I think this was good. Thanks for listening. You are very good at that. :)