e a s t e r n s i e r r a WeddingWedding2012 Guide

Bridal Advice Just Desserts Vendor Directory And More … Fororr A WeddingWWe d as Spectacular as the Surroundings, LoLookoo No Further than June Mountain.

WeddingsWe ddings @ JuneMountain.comJ uneMountai n.com 8888 88.JuneMtn Ju n e M t n / JuneMountain.comJuneMountai n.com

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH INYO NATIONAL FOREST SierraSmileAd-Vertical.pdf 1 3/6/12 11:43 AM

Sierra Smile Photo Booth 2013 ConvictConvict LakeLake Guide

C Fun for , weddings, anniversaries, bridal M showers, reunions and other awesome events, Y our photo booth rental comes with everything

CM you need for creating fabulous photos and memories. MY Prices begin at $750

CY Call or email for specifics and quote. CMY Rental includes: Photo booth and props K Custom designed 4 x 6” photo layout Unlimited visits to the booth Prints for your guests to take home Digital copies for you to keep Attendant on site for event For all For quotes & reservations contact: Vickie @ 760.258.6155 or [email protected] SeasonsSeasons

Convict Lake is a majestic place to hold a mountain wedding, outdoor ceremony, reception and/or during any season.

Be sure to we offer: reserve your s All Inclusive Wedding Packages advertising space s Planning Services in next year’s Wedding Guide! s Catering s & Equipment Rentals s Cozy Cabins & Lodges s Endless Activities for All Ages lara kirkner kirkner@ Contact Michael Melin at 760-934-3803 x2 or [email protected] thesheetnews.com 2000 Convict Lake Rd., Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 ÝÛwww.convictlake.com Wedding2012 Guide

publisher Jack Lunch editor Lara Kirkner creative director Juli Ann Sprunger graphic design & production jasdesign advertising director Lara Kirkner photo editor Juli Ann Sprunger photographer Catherine Beattie additional photography Joel St. Marie Rebecca Garrett

© 2012 The Sheet, Inc. Check out the Eastern Sierra Wedding Guide online at www.thesheetnews.com under the Special Publications section. mammoth lakes weddings at the westin monache resort— take your love to new heights Do you know the meaning of this Searching for an elegant and romantic mountain the resort offers well-known wedding verse? wedding retreat in Mammoth Lakes? A peaceful • Complimentary wedding night Something old, sanctuary surrounded by majestic, snow-frosted accommodations for the wedding couple Something new, peaks? Brides and grooms will find everything when a number of guests book rooms they’re looking for at The Westin Monache Resort, with the hotel Something borrowed, Mammoth—including exquisite food offerings Something blue. • Guest Room Blocks with no contract (many of them eco-friendly), upscale signature —Author Unknown amenities and an unrivaled mountain setting. or minimum-room guarantees Each item in this poem represents a good-luck • Valet parking The Westin Monache offers many idyllic options token for the bride. If she carries all of them on for Mammoth Lakes’ weddings and receptions. • Guest shuttle services her wedding day, her will be happy. Celebrate your new union while you’re embraced by The Westin’s signature contemporary • Use of a personalized wedding website elegance and classic style, and warmed by details and complimentary concierge services reminiscent of a rugged mountain lodge—an • Low promotional rates on intimate ambiance suitable for up to 150 guests. anniversary packages Exchange vows under the stars or the warm sun on the sun deck at the resort-style pool, with the Thanks to air service provided by Horizon forest as a backdrop. and United Airlines the resort is easily The Gallery inside The Westin Monache’s accessible to both you and your guests. Whitebark restaurant, a private dining room Whether you envision a spring or summer complete with an outdoor deck, is an ideal location wedding under the High Sierra sun, a for rehearsal dinners and intimate receptions. winter wedding veiled in a light snowfall, or Whitebark’s catering team delights in working a fall wedding with the colorful aspens as a with couples to create exceptional menus unique backdrop, The Westin Monache Resort makes to you. The Westin Monache tends to the details your wedding day dreams come true. while you focus on saying “I Do.” For more information, please visit westinmammoth.com or call 888-627-8154 or 760-934-0400.

2 photo: Rebecca Garrett Photography Joel St. Marie

14 photo:

Catherine Beattie 19 photo:

FBTUFSO!TJFSSB WeddingWedding3123 Guide Joel St. Marie Rebecca Garrett Photography 9-12 16 & 1 7 photo: photo: on the cover: A perfect Eastern Sierra bouquet. photographer: Catherine Beattie.

marketplace & directory Everyone you need to know to plan your special day. 5–8 location Va Va Venues! 9 – 12 focus Destination Weddings: When adventure is the name of the game. 14 & 15 perspective Out of the mouths of brides. 16 & 17 just desserts Mouthwatering sweet treats. 19 wedding checklist Count down to the big event. 20

eastern sierra Wedding Guide 2012 3 Bridal Hair • Bridal Parties Now Booking 2012 Weddings & Events 0O-PDBUJPO"WBJMBCMF BMMVSFNBNNPUIDPN

Fully customized music by Sierra Sounds Choose from a variety

of entertainment options: n jDJ/Emcee b Solo, Duo, Trio or Full band Your Wedding, Your Music, A Your Choice Get the entertainment you desire, at the price you can afford.

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Pete & DeDe Maw 760.914.23400 www.mammothphotoshack.com / info @ mammothphotoshack.comt hk marketplace advantage dj donna’s creative corner hair by carrie Looking for a DJ or Master of Ceremonies for your Providing those perfect finishing touches for your Mountain elements can change on a dime, so when wedding? Then look no further than Advantage big day, Donna’s Creative Corner, a hair salon and searching for that perfect stylist for your wedding DJ. Their experienced DJs are dedicated to spa, offers full set acrylics, full set gels, manicures day, you’ll want someone who knows how to create making your event fun and memorable. Offering and pedicures. Spoil the wedding party with the for the climate. Hair by Carrie provides special high definition sound systems, lighting effects new pedicure spa now available at Donna’s. Located event hair and makeup on your wedding day that from mild to wild, as well as video projection and at 452 Old Mammoth Rd., Suite 214, Donna’s will be ready for any type of weather. Trained and karaoke, Advantage DJ is the best “advantage” for gives you that finished sparkle you can’t do without. certified by Master stylists at the Sassoon Academy your event. A Mammoth Lakes Chamber member, Call 760.924.0300 or 760.258.5220 and look in Santa Monica, keep your hair hassle free with Advantage DJ is fully licensed and insured. Visit wonderful from the tips of your fingers to the tips Hair by Carrie. Call 760.392.0092 or visit www.advantagedj.com or call 661.674.7151. of your toes! www.hairbycarrieg.com. allure salon double eagle high sierra resort ministries For all your bridal hair needs, contact Daryl Plan your wedding at a magnificent alpine setting. Looking for the words to help make your wedding Hooper, owner/stylist at Allure Salon. From Located in beautiful June Lake, Double Eagle Resort ceremony one of a kind? Fred Weatherly and High romantic waves to intricate up-dos, Daryl focuses and Spa offers complete wedding coordination, Sierra Resort Ministries will not only help you on the style that is right for you. For a small gourmet catering, spa and salon services, deluxe find the right words, but also the right place and additional fee, she’ll even come to you, be it your cabins and luxury rooms. The Double Eagle Resort perfect ceremony for your Eastern Sierra wedding. cabin, hotel room or wedding venue. A trial run is is known for the most beautiful mountain weddings Weatherly is a non-denominational wedding recommended so that on the big day you know what in the Sierra. Double Eagle’s wedding season extends officiant and coordinator, whose motto is KISS: to expect and the time it will take. Contact Daryl at from mid-May to early October. Date reservations “Keep It Simple Sierra.” He is also the onsite 760.709.2082 or visit www.alluremammoth.com. must be made six months to a year in advance. For officiant for Pokonobe Lodge. Contact him at more information call 760.648.7004, ext. 503 or [email protected] or 760.934.3122. av special events visit www.DoubleEagle.com. AV Special Events’ goal is to meet and exceed their june mountain client’s expectations with exceptional customer eastern sierra audio / video Float to the top of the world and enjoy some of the service and ‘WOW’ them with original and Eastern Sierra Audio/Video has all of your audio most pristine views in the Eastern Sierra when you creative event design and production. AV Special equipment needs for your special day. Specializing plan your wedding at June Mountain. A full-service Events works with clients to customize each special in PA rentals, AV installation and services, home wedding locale, June Mountain offers a unique occasion according to their individual wishes and theater, and low voltage contracting. Eastern Sierra setting for your special day. They provide the food budget. They’ll take your vision and turn it into Audio/Video is your local source in the Eastern and the venue and can also suggest vendors for all reality. A Mammoth Lakes Chamber member, AV Sierra, providing services since 2001. They have your other needs. Take the worry out of planning Special Events is fully licensed and insured. Visit the ability to put on large or small events, or your big day by choosing June Mountain. Visit www. www.avspecialevents.com or call 661.674.7151. multiple acts in various locations, and can even junemountain.com or call 760.648.7733. help you book your event entertainment. Call breakfast club 760.914.0733 or visit www.easternsierraaudio.com the littlest birds Looking for a specialty dessert for your important for more information. The Littlest Birds, a nationally acclaimed acoustic occasion? Sue Ebersold, owner and operator of cello and banjo duo based in the Eastern Sierra, the Breakfast Club, is your one-stop shop for erik torppe makeup can accommodate any wedding location. Sharon delicious treats. Tantalize your taste buds with one “Showing your inner beauty with an every day touch Martinson and David Huebner have a beautiful of her handmade wedding cakes, birthday cakes or of glam.” Erik Torppe offers makeup for beauty, catalog of original and traditional old-time mountain decadent cheesecakes! With years of experience, bridal, fashion, TV and film, but it’s the emotions folk music with a sound all their own. From classical Sue can deliver exactly what you need on your that surround a bride on her wedding day that inspire ceremony music to fun cocktail hour spirit they have special day. Sheet Publisher Jack Lunch said it best: him as an artist. A graduate of the Napoleon Perdis a professional yet accessible nature. Additionally, “Sue is 110% dependable and bakes one helluva Academy in Hollywood, Erik’s work has been featured Sharon can officiate weddings and David does solo .” Contact her at 760.934.6944. in publications such as San Diego Style Weddings, cello performances. Visit www.littlestbirds.net, call Skin Magazine, & The New York Times. Visit his new 760.914.1737, or email [email protected] convict lake resort website, www.etartistry.com to learn more. Weddings for all seasons. Convict Lake is a majestic lori’s piece of cake place to hold a mountain wedding, outdoor green fox events Your satisfaction is the number one priority at Lori’s ceremony, reception and/or rehearsal dinner If you’re looking for eco-conscious event production Piece of Cake. Personal service is their specialty. during any season. Convict Lake is a full-service in the Eastern Sierra, look no further than Green Your ideas, combined with Lori’s 25 plus years of destination with accommodations, catering, all Fox Events. They strive to exceed all expectations cake decorating and baking experience is a great inclusive wedding packages and planning services, while producing your event in a clever, efficient combination for meeting your needs. Located in party and equipment rentals, and activities and resourceful way. Whether you need start to Bishop, California, Lori’s is a fully licensed and for all ages. Just 10 minutes from Mammoth finish coordination or just a little help with the permitted food facility in Inyo County. Lori’s and across the highway from the Mammoth/ details, Green Fox is there for you. Ask about their provides professional, all-occasion cakes and hopes Yosemite Airport. Visit www.convictlake.com or wedding prop inventory. For a “no stress allowed” to be your choice for that special day. Visit contact Mike Melin at 760.934.3803, ext. 2 or experience, contact them at www.greenfoxevents.com www.lorispieceofcake.com or call 760.784.1462. [email protected] or 760.709.6744.

eastern sierra Wedding Guide 2012 5 directory Everyone you need to know to help you plan your special day photographers / videographers food men’s High Sierra Photography Anything Goes Fine Catering Michelle’s Fine Jewelry and Gifts www.HighSierraPhotography.com www.anythinggoesfinecatering.com 760.934.8400 760.709.6104 760.934.2424 venues Joel St. Marie Photography Austria Hof Austria Hof www.joelstmarie.com www.austriahof.com www.austriahof.com 760.812.1001 760.934.2764 760.934.2764 John Gable Giovanni’s Convict Lake Resort www.johngablephoto.com www.giovannismammoth.com www.convictlake.com 760.938.0083 760.934.7563 760.934.3803, ext. 2 Kendra Knight/Bluebird Imaging Linda Dore Food Service Double Eagle Resort and Spa www.bluebirdimaging.com www.lindadorefoodservice.com www.doubleeagle.com 760.924.0316 760.647.1055 760.648.7004, ext. 503 Lauren Tracy Petra’s Bistro and Wine Bar Hayden Cabin www.mammothlakesweddings.com www.petrasbistro.com 760.934.6157 760.914.3848 760.934.3500 June Mountain Lesley Allen Photo Restaurant Skadi [email protected] www.lesleyallenphoto.com www.skadirestaurant.com 760.648.7733 760.872.7315 760.934.3902 Mammoth Mountain Ski Area Minaret Photography Toomey’s [email protected] www.minaretphoto.com www.toomeyscatering.com 760.934.2571, ext. 2220 760.709.1095 760.924.4408 Pokonobe Lodge Peter Morning Photography Whitebark Restaurant [email protected] www.morningphotography.com www.westinmammoth.com/whitebark 760.934.6061 760.937.4293 760.934.0400 Rainbow Tarns Rebecca Garrett Photography Whiskey Creek www.rainbowtarns.com www.RebeccaGarrettPhotography.com 760.934.2555 760.935.4556 310.795.9161 Wilderness Catering Sierra Meadows Ranch Roving Photo [email protected] www.sierrameadowsranch.com www.rovingphoto.com 760.934.6061 760.934.6161 760.920.2357 cakes / desserts planners / coordinators Shawn Reeder Photography Ian Algeroen/Restaurant Skadi AV Special Events www.shawnreeder.com www.skadirestaurant.com www.avspecialevents.com 209.743.0471 760.934.3902 661.674.7151 Sierra Rentals Lori’s Piece of Cake Designs by Michelle Denault Dan McConnell www.lorispieceofcake.com www.denaultcatering.com 760.937.2043 760.784.1462 760.873.4435 Steve Dutcher Mimi’s Cookie Bar Green Fox Events www.stevedutcher.com www.mimiscookiebar.com www.greenfoxevents.com 760.873.8183 760.924.0877 760.709.6744 Susan Morning Photography Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Sierra Weddings [email protected] www.rockymountainchocolatefactory.com www.sierra-weddings.com 760.937.4291 760.934.6269 760.648.7616 The Cookes Fine Photography Schats Bakery www.cookesphotography.com www.erickschatsbakery.com 760.872.2345 760.934.6055 or 760.873.7156 Stellar Brew www.stellarbrewnaturalcafe.com 760.924.3559 Sue Ebersold/Breakfast Club 760.934.6944

6 eastern sierra Wedding Guide 2012 directory

lodging / handy ideas / invitations music / djs 1849 Condos Access Art and Business Center Advantage DJ www.1849condos.com 760.934.4667 www.advantagedj.com 800.421.1849 661.674.7151 Chato Alpenhof Lodge 760.934.9719 The Littlest Birds www.alpenhof-lodge.com www.littlestbirds.net 760.934.6330 Heart in Hand 760.914.1737 760.924.2424 Austria Hof Sierra Sirens www.austriahof.com Lingerie Lounge [email protected] 760.934.2764 www.shoplingerielounge.com 760.872.7190 and 760.872.2175 760.934.6600 Sierra Sounds Mammoth Creek Inn Mammoth Business Essentials www.themammothcreek.com [email protected] www.mammothbusiness.com 760.914.0931 760.934.6162 760.924.2257 Mammoth Mountain Inn Solo Classical / Folk Cello Tonik www.folkncello.com www.mammothmountain.com 760.924.7727 800.626.6684 760.914.1737 hair / makeup / nails / relaxation Snowcreek Resort wedding rings & accessories Allure Salon Bishop Jewelers www.snowcreekresort.com www.Alluremammoth.com 760.934.3333 www.bishopjewelers.com 760.709.2082 760.872.1672 The Westin Monache Resort American Beauty Salon Lyons Ltd. www.westinmammoth.com/weddings 760.914.2257 760.934.0400 [email protected] Belladonna 760.873.4160 marriage licenses www.belladonnamammoth.com Michelle’s Fine Jewelry and Gifts Mono County 760.934.3344 www.monocounty.ca.gov 760.934.8400 760.932.5530 Donna’s Creative Corner flowers 760.924.0300 Red Lily Floral Design transportation 760.258.5220 Mammoth Taxi www.redlilydesign.com www.mammoth-taxi.com Double Eagle Resort and Spa 760.934.0033 760.937.8294 www.doubleeagle.com Valley Florist 760.648.7004 equipment rentals www.bishopvalleyflorist.com Barnett Gatrell Rentals Erik Torppe Makeup 760.872.1118 760.937.0333 www.etartistry.com officiants 818.593.9009 Eastern Sierra Audio/Video High Sierra Resort Ministries www.easternsierraaudio.com Hair by Carrie [email protected] 760.914.0733 www.hairbycarrieg.com 760.934.3122 760.392.0092 Sierra Rentals Mono County Superior Court Dan McConnell Snowcreek Athletic Club and Spa 760.924.5444 www.snowcreekathleticclub.com 760.937.2043 Rev. Dr. Sharon Jean Martinson 760.934.8511 gift registration / supplies [email protected] Anne Marie’s photo booths 603.667.6796 www.annemarieskitchenbedbath.com PhotoShack Sierra Weddings 760.872.4433 www.mammothphotoshack.com www.sierra-weddings.com 760.914.2340 Mountain Living 760.648.7616 www.mammothmountainliving.com Sierra Smile Photo Booth St. Joseph’s Catholic Church 760.924.2040 [email protected] 760.934.6276 760.258.6155 dance Instruction recycling Le Centre Sierra Conservation Project 760.709.1889 www.recyclesierra.com Leah Dutcher 760.914.0115 760.873.8183

eastern sierra Wedding Guide 2012 7 marketplace mammoth mountain ski area photoshack sierra sounds Plan your perfect day with Mammoth Weddings, Bringing the booth and the fun to you! PhotoShack Sierra Sounds specializes in music for all ceremonies the most complete wedding planning service in photo booth rental creates an instant memory and and receptions. Whether your wedding is casual, Mammoth Lakes. Choose from unique mountain is the perfect party favor for your wedding. Just step traditional, elegant or extreme, Sierra Sounds will help locations, get everything done in a one-stop shop, be inside, press a button and smile. Available for rental you customize the music. From the ceremony to the assigned your own wedding coordinator, have world in the Eastern Sierra, this fully portable photo reception’s last note, Sierra Sounds offers a variety of class resort amenities at your fingertips, and design booth does more than take memorable pictures; it’s options. Looking for a DJ, an Emcee, a soloist guitar, your day for whichever of the four beautiful seasons an awesome source of entertainment and fun. It will a duo, trio, or full band? Get the entertainment you you desire. Whether you prefer indoor elegance or be the talk of the event! For more information call desire, at the price you can afford. Your wedding, outdoor charm, you’ll be astounded by the stunning 760.914.2340, email info@mammothphotoshack. your music, your choice. www.sierrasounds.net, views that Mammoth has to offer. Email com or visit www.mammothphotoshack.com. [email protected] or 760.914.0931 [email protected] or call 760.934.2571, ext. 2220. rebecca garrett stellar brew “Capturing the love and the adventure!” Rebecca Naturally minded specialty cakes and catering are mammoth taxi Garrett specializes in location, adventure-based available at Stellar Brew, a Mammoth coffee shop For friendly, safe, reliable transportation give weddings. Garrett’s interest in photography began and eatery that offers gluten-free and vegan options Mammoth Taxi a call. Offering door-to-door in- 35 years ago when she assisted her father with light for your wedding day treats. Beautifully decorated town service, as well as service to and from the airport, meters, fill cards, tripods, film, staging and more. cupcakes are also available if you’re looking for an Mammoth Taxi does it all. Commercially licensed and She photographed her first wedding in 1995, and alternative to the normal wedding dessert. Using insured, Mammoth Taxi has been locally owned and has shot on location in the U.S., Canada, Europe only sustainable products and practices, Stellar Brew operated since 1994. Also offering a backpacker and and South America. A self-taught photographer, serves up deliciousness with a smile. Stop in to the hiker shuttle service, plan to take a few days out hiking Garrett has assisted greats such as Herb Ritts and blue building on Main Street or give them a call at before your big event and leave the driving to them. John Kelly. Contact her at 310.795.9161 or visit 760.924.3559. Visit www.mammoth-taxi.com or call 760.937.8294. www.RebeccaGarrettPhotography.com. the westin monache resort michelle’s fine jewelry and gifts sierra conservation project At the Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth Looking for the perfect ring for popping the big Don’t forget the environment on your special contemporary elegance redefines mountain lodging. question? Michelle’s has rings, wedding day! Looking for a convenient place to dispose The Westin is Mammoth Lakes’ only luxury, full- bands, and so much more! Available items include of that empty bottle or can? Sierra Conservation service hotel offering gracious hospitality, a majestic tuxedo and men’s formal wear, giftware, attendants Project offers attractive special event recycling setting and Westin’s standard of excellence. Among gifts, fragrances, and wedding accessories including containers and services to reduce the environmental its many amenities, The Westin includes full-service guestbooks, , cake servers, cake tops, toasting impacts of your big event. Call 760.914.0115 or wedding planning, panoramic mountain views, in- glasses, tiaras and ring bearer pillows. Engraving is visit www.recyclesierra.com to learn more. Sierra room dining, ski valet and rental shop, a pool and available. Visit Michelle’s at 437 Old Mammoth Rd., Conservation Project is dedicated to reducing the hot tubs, fitness facilities, underground parking and Suite H in the Vons Shopping Center or call them amount of recyclable waste deposited in Eastern more than 2,000-square-feet of meeting space. Call at 760.934.8400. Sierra landfills. 760.934.0400 or 888.627.8154 or visit www.westinmammoth.com/weddings. mimi’s cookie bar sierra rentals For a fun alternative to cake, check out Mimi’s Get your party started with Sierra Rentals! Offering wilderness catering Cookie Bar! Offering cupcakes, bride and groom tents, tables and chairs, Sierra Rentals has the Based out of the historic Pokonobe Lodge, Wilderness cakes, milk and cookies bar, cookie dough truffles infrastructure you need for your big event. Don’t Catering is part of a private venue on Lake Mary with and wedding favors, Mimi’s is a unique twist on worry about setting up that cumbersome tent or both indoor/outdoor dining and spectacular alpine traditional wedding dessert. All of their cupcakes breaking it down because Sierra Rentals does that mountain views. Innovative menus, featuring in-season, are organic. Vegan and gluten free options are for you. Owner Dan McConnell is also a skilled organic, locally grown produce, are designed especially available. Customize your cupcakes or use favorites videographer so ask him about filming your event as for your event. Complete wedding planning is available like Lemon Blueberry or Chocolate Coconut. Order well. Contact Dan at 760.937.2043. and includes music options and an onsite officiant. Full your dessert and favors through Mimi’s and receive service catering with years of experience is also always a 5% discount. Contact Mimi’s at 760.924.0877 or sierra smile photo booth available at your chosen location. Call 760.934.6061 or visit www.mimiscookiebar.com. Fun for parties, weddings, anniversaries, bridal email [email protected]. showers, reunions and other awesome events, our mountain living photo booth rental comes with everything you need If you’re a bride looking to set up your registry, look for creating fabulous photos and memories. Rental no further than Mountain Living. They even have includes: photo booth and props, custom designed to be part of the party favors! For wedding guests or maids of honor 4x6” photo layout, unlimited visits to booth, prints 2013 eastern sierra wedding guide planning the , check out Mountain for your guests, digital copies for you, and an onsite Living for great gifts and much more. Mountain attendant. Prices start at $750. For specific quotes contact lara kirkner Living is always “stylish by design.” Located at The and reservations contact Vickie at 760.258.6155 or 760.914.0678 Plaza at 501 Old Mammoth Road, stop by Mountain [email protected]. Living, give them a call at 760.924.2040 or check out [email protected] their website, www.MammothMountainLiving.com. June Mountain. June

8 eastern sierra Wedding Guide 2012 photo: location

As the sayingva goes, location vais everything, and herevenues in the Eastern Sierra there are more beautiful locations to choose from than anywhere else. Check out these wedding venues that do it all.

JUNE MOUNTAIN For weddings as spectacular as the surroundings, look no further than June Mountain. Sitting in the heart of June Lake, California, June Mountain offers some of the finest views in the Eastern Sierra. Special treats include having your wedding party use the J1 chairlift as its aisle. Watch your guests’ faces light up as you float up and make your grand entrance. Following the ceremony, enjoy a beautiful dining experience in the lodge. A full-service wedding locale, June Mountain offers a unique setting for your special day. They provide the food and the venue and can also suggest vendors for all your other needs. To learn more, email [email protected], call 760.648.7733 or visit www.junemountain.com. June Mountain. June photo: location

CONVICT LAKE < Say “I Do,” lakeside or creekside with the Convict Lake Resort experience. Offering full service destination and turn-key wedding coordination services in any season, Convict Lake makes sure you really get to enjoy your special day. Located about 10 minutes south of Mammoth, Convict Lake Resort is literally a one-stop wedding shop with a fine dining restaurant and 27 cozy cabins and three large houses on site. Keep your guests entertained with hiking, horseback riding, yard games, fishing and more. Enjoy the privacy of this tuck-away treasure for your special day. To learn more, contact Mike Melin at 760.934.3803, ext. 2 or email [email protected]. You can also visit www.convictlake.com. Cookes Fine Photography. photo:

< DOUBLE EAGLE SPA & RESORT Plan your wedding in a magnificent alpine setting. Located in beautiful June Lake, Double Eagle Resort and Spa offers complete wedding coordination, gourmet catering, spa and salon services, deluxe cabins and luxury rooms. The Double Eagle is well known for some of the most beautiful mountain weddings in the Sierra. Imagine wedding vows being exchanged at the base of an 11,000-foot mountain peak with waterfalls, a pristine pond, rushing streams and towering pine trees to complete the backdrop. The most repeated commented from couples that have held their wedding at the Double Eagle is “the beauty of this place is beyond our wildest expectations!” To learn more call 760.648.7004, ext. 503 or visit www.doubleeagle.com. Double Eagle. photo:

10 eastern sierra Wedding Guide 2012 location

POKONOBE < The historic Pokonobe Lodge is a private venue on Lake Mary in the Mammoth Lakes Basin with both indoor/outdoor dining and spectacular alpine mountain views that are tough to beat. It’s the perfect rustic setting for weddings, elegant dinner parties, Western BBQ, conferences or retreats and cultural events. Fresh and delicious menus by Wilderness Catering are designed especially for your event; signature appetizers, freshly prepared entrée selections and delectable

desserts delight the palette. Pokonobe offers full-service wedding coordination, including Pokonobe. onsite officiant Fred Weatherly, private rehearsal space, and musical talent. Special party rentals

are also available. Call 760.934.6061 or email [email protected]. photo:

< WESTIN At the Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth contemporary elegance redefines mountain lodging. The Westin is Mammoth Lakes’ only luxury, full-service hotel offering gracious hospitality, a majestic setting and Westin’s standard of excellence. The 230-condominium hotel is located in The Village at Mammoth adjacent to Mammoth Mountain’s express gondola. Among its many amenities, The Westin includes panoramic mountain views, in-room dining, ski valet and rental shop, a pool and hot tubs, fitness facilities, underground parking and more than 2,000- square-feet of meeting space. The Westin Monache Resort offers a unique experience of renewal, relaxation and recreation for your wedding day. To learn more, call 760.934.0400 or 888.627.8154, or visit www.westinmammoth.com/weddings. Westin. photo:

11 location <

MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN Are you someone who likes options? Then Mammoth Mountain Ski Area has you covered for your wedding day. Their most popular ceremony sites are Forest Chapel, Sierra Star Golf Course, and the Top of the Mountain — so whether it’s lakeside ambiance, lush green courses, or mountain-view magnificence that you desire, Mammoth Mountain’s got it. Reception sites include Parallax, The Mill, and Little Eagle, and MMSA’s partnership with Levy Restaurants means full-service catering for everything from rehearsal dinners to farewell brunches and the big event in between. Offering weddings in all four seasons, when you plan your event at MMSA you are also paired with a “Wedding Team” that is there for you seven days a week. For unique wedding extras take a gondola cruise to the top of the mountain or ski and board after saying “I Do.” To learn more, email [email protected] or call 760.934.2571, ext. 2220. You can also visit www. mammothmountain.com/weddings.

top & left photos: Brand Models: Rachelle and Brandon Bell. above & top right: Mammoth Mountain.

12 eastern sierra Wedding Guide 2012 Donna’s Creative Corner Hair Salon & Spa

Full Set Acrylics $40 / Fills $20 / Full Set Gels $40 Manicures & Pedicures / New Pedicure Spa Now Available

760.924.0300 / 760.258.5220 / 452 Old Mammoth Road, Suite 214 Sierra Center Mall, Mammoth Lakes

Clever, resourceful, & eco-conscious event production in the Eastern Sierra.

760.709.6744 www.greenfoxevents.com [email protected] focus

It’s all about the adventure, get here any way you can. Photo: Joel St. Marie When adventure is the name of the game. Planning your Eastern Sierra destination wedding.

You popped the question, she’s got the ring, Then, of course, there’s the pocketbook. Whether Locals, we return to you. Living here means, in and now the two of you have decided to you are a local or a visitor from somewhere else theory, that you have friends here. These friends in California, planning a destination wedding might be willing to open up their abodes to some of plan a destination wedding. Well, look no in the Eastern Sierra allows you to have the your guests and voila, free lodging! further than the Eastern Sierra. (Locals, destination without breaking your bank, or the we’re talking to you, too, so read on.) bank of your guests. This solves the problem of wanting a destination wedding but knowing that many of your guests may Destination weddings are all about adventure so You’re guests will thank you for not asking them to not have the resources to be able to attend. If you why not plan yours in one of the most adventurous purchase airfare that costs hundreds of dollars to believe in the more the merrier, but still want those spots in California? With commercial flights into go to some tropical beach somewhere. Chances are, out-of-town nuptials, then getting married in the Mammoth, it’s never been easier to get here, and with many of your guests will live in California too, and Eastern Sierra is a great option. a growing wedding industry that includes wedding would even have the option of driving. Even though vendors with some serious expertise, it’s never been gas prices are high these days, having the option of The choices here are endless. Whether your budget is easier to plan a stress-free wedding in this locale. bringing your own vehicle to get around while here bottomless or barely there, whether you’re a is an inviting one. local or a visitor, you can have a beautiful wedding in When planning, you can receive as little or as much the Eastern Sierra. help as you want or need. Wedding coordinators There’s also the issue of lodging. Depending on here are willing to work with exactly what you want what season you choose to tie the knot, your fellow To avoid common pitfalls and reduce stress, check to do. They realize it’s your day and only want to adventurers (guests) could have the option of out the bridal advice section in this guide. Hear from help make it as stress free as possible. They can be camping if they had to stick to a tight budget. women who have been there and done that, and laid back or in your face, just tell them what you’re If guests prefer a roof above their heads, local made it through the other side of wedding planning looking to accomplish. rentals are plentiful. relatively unscathed. Many of the all-inclusive venues up here provide a wedding coordinator as part of the package. That coordinator is your eyes and ears while you plan; helping you be here when you can’t really be here. If you choose not to use an all-inclusive spot, there are still wedding coordinators available to you. Check out the directory section to find them. Location is the greatest asset the Eastern Sierra provides. Here you’ll find beautiful backdrops for the photos on your special day. The scenery will make your guests say “Wow” when they arrive and realize this is where you are getting married. Locals don’t feel left out. With hundreds of miles of wilderness in the Eastern Sierra, you have the luxury of knowing the secret spots. Choose one of these for your “destination wedding.” As mentioned, the draw of a destination wedding is the sense of adventure that comes with going somewhere unique and different … memorable. Trying to get grandma up to a local lake, or using a natural aisle made of rocks for the bride’s big entrance will make for lifelong tales that your family and friends will share in years to come. Since the wedding vendors living in the Eastern Sierra share the adventurous spirit, you should have no problem finding photographers, officiants and the like that are willing to follow you to your secret destination, even if it is a bit of a hike.

eastern sierra Wedding Guide 2012 15 perspective

Out of the mouths photo: Courtesy Heather Turner. photo: Lauren Tracy . HEATHER TURNER AMBER RICE FLYNN 1. Finding a venue was the hardest part of the whole 1. The fi rst thing you need to do is book your ceremony of brides wedding planning process for us. Once we found date. Since the Saturdays were all booked up a year in June Mountain everything else fell into place. advance at Forest Trail I had to settle for a Sunday. Before you get into the thick of 2. June Mountain, at the end of August. 2. We had the wedding at the Forest Trail Chapel up at wedding planning, read what these 3. We live in Bishop. Twin Lakes in Mammoth and the reception at Rafters five brides had to say about the perils Restaurant, Aug. 14, 2011. and pitfalls, as well as the enjoyable 4. From the beginning you take the enchanting lift 3. My husband and I both live in Mammoth. upsides of planning a wedding in the ride up to the Chalet with breathtaking views of June Lake, Gull Lake, and Mono Lake, with the Reverse Peak Eastern Sierra. Perhaps by following 4. Tim had an aunt who got married in the same chapel Waterfall in the distance. Pair that with the outstanding some of their advice, you can reduce 35 years ago so it was a good luck charm since they are staff, delicious food, and romantic ambiance of the still happily married! your own stress levels. Chalet we had found our venue. 5. What caused the most stress was trying to come across 5. The only slight obstacle we had was getting our 1 What is the best way to begin planning the [email] addresses for all the friends and family. cupcakes up to the Chalet. We drove them up, and we your wedding in the Eastern Sierra? I used Internet so there was no need to have physical lost a few, unfortunately. addresses, but the invitations were the worst! 2 Where did you have your wedding? 6. June Mountain offered to put them on the lift, but What time of year? my husband thought we could drive them up. Put them 6. I asked my mom and my husband’s cousin to help on the lift, it’s much smoother than driving. provide addresses. I would tell the bride to be, “Don’t be shy ask for HELP!” 3 Do you live in the Eastern Sierra? 7. I started planning a year in advance. Resources in If not, where do you live? the Eastern Sierra can be limited at times, especially if 7. We had a little over a year and a half because we you have to compete with others for availability. Also I needed to save $1,000 a month to pay for it ourselves. 4 Why did you decide to get married here? was very hands-on with my wedding (I made the fl owers out of different materials, all the bouquets, corsages, 8. I learned that I was a stress ball because of seating. I was worried about whether or not there was going to 5 What was the biggest obstacle centerpieces, etc.) so I wanted to give myself plenty of time. be enough food, chairs, dessert … but it all worked out you encountered? 8. I am pretty particular; I think I drove my husband nuts! and I really wasted a lot of energy worrying for nothing. Although the Eastern Sierra is beautiful, plan on looking 6 How did you overcome it and out of town for a lot of your wedding supplies. I did fi nd 9. What made my wedding successful was my wedding how can future brides avoid it? some supplies local but it was hard, and expensive. coordinator Sandra D. She helped with all the planning and organizing. I couldn’t of done it without her! 9. Abigail, Lenny, and the amazing staff at June 7 How long did you take to plan your wedding? 10. I was surprised by all the friends and family that Would you recommend more or less time Mountain. From the very beginning they had us excited about planning our wedding. They made everything we said they would come but didn’t because of last minute for planning? wanted possible, with literally NO stress! changes and the fact that they had to travel so far. I could have invited a lot more people but didn’t because I was 8 What did you learn about yourself while 10. I thought fi nding a wedding venue in the Eastern Sierra worried there wasn’t enough room, space, food, etc. At planning your wedding? would be the easiest part of wedding planning. With the the end of the day we had enough room to invite 200 What did you learn about the Eastern Sierra? Eastern Sierra’s vast beauty and friendly people I thought people but I only invited 130, and only 80 showed up! this step would be a breeze. I was wrong. There are only 9 What made your wedding successful? a few places people have weddings here. I started making 11.My advice ... get help from family and defi nitely compromises that I didn’t want to make, but felt I had to. call Sandra D. (760) 709-6744 or email sandradgreenfoxevents.com. 10 Did anything surprise you during your If only I had found June Mountain from the beginning I planning process? would not have had to go through all the stress. 11. I feel like June Mountain is an inside scoop. Not a 11 What inside scoop, little known fact or bit lot of people know that they do weddings. With their of advice can you share with potential brides accommodations, and price June Mountain is an to help make their wedding planning smoother? unbeatable place to get married in the Eastern Sierra.

16 Wedding Guide 2012 photo: Courtesy Kimmy Fasani. photo: Courtesy Jena Carter. photo: Joel St. Marie.

KIMMY FASANI JENA CARTER DIANA VIKTORIA BALDORF VAz 1. To begin planning a wedding in the Eastern Sierra pick 1. I think the best way to start planning is to choose 1. We found the best way to start planning our wedding was out a few places around town to scope for locations. a venue that describes both of you. Then start asking our local friends and local people. This way we also expanding your ideas off your venue. got a bit of a review of things and places, which was really 2. Our wedding was at Sierra Meadows Ranch in hard to find in Mammoth. Mammoth on Sept. 10, 2011. 2. We got married on top of a ledge at Arrowhead Lake in the Mammoth Lakes Basin. It was September 2. Wedding date August 27, 2011, Ceremony: Forest 3. We live in Mammoth Lakes. and the leaves were still bright on the aspens. The Chapel, Reception: Rainbow Tarns. entire party hiked out to our spot. 4. The Eastern Sierra’s are so majestic and powerful. We 3. We have lived in Mammoth for 7 winters. The summer are both professional winter action sports athletes and 3. We live in Mammoth Lakes and have no intentions we got married was our first summer here. this area is a direct reflection of our life and hobbies. on leaving. 4. We wanted our family and friends to see why we have 5. Honestly, planning a wedding in the Eastern Sierra’s 4. The Eastern Sierras are majestic and to have that decided to live so far away from them, the beauty of the was not too stressful. The thing we struggled with the powerful beauty on my wedding day felt so special. Mammoth Lakes area. My husband is from New Jersey and most was guessing what the weather was going to do and I’m from Denmark. (My secret plan was to get them all 5. The most stress was actually caused by the loss of finding rental equipment for a fair price. to come once, love it so they want to come back and visit control when it came down to the minutes before our again. Looks like it worked, everyone loved it here and have 6. With the unknown weather worries, we just decided vows. My groom’s family combined with my family’s been telling us they want to come back.) that we weren’t in control of that aspect. For rental input meant I had to be flexible and go with the flow. equipment, we did a lot of research. 5. We tried hard not to stress, but I guess it would be to 6. I overcame it by focusing on the bigger picture: I find something that fitted our budget and quality. 7. We were engaged for 13 months. We planned heavily am where I want to be with whom I want to be with. from October until December and made sure all the I recommend you have a rehearsal, that way all 6. We tried to ask around and get as much info as possible. major things like venue, date, and guest lists were your thoughts and ideas get heard in time. Other than that we crossed our fingers and hoped for the finished. Then, because of our jobs, put planning on the best. At the end it all turned out well. back burner until April. 7. I had 7 months to plan our wedding. I thought it was just the right amount of time for us. We are a low 7. We started end of October finding location, doing “Save 8. When I was planning our wedding I learned that I maintenance couple that wanted more meaning than the date” etc. We pretty much did a bit of planning every am in many ways over prepared for everything, though, decorations at our wedding. The most time was spent week the whole winter. (We did all our planning ourselves). I didn’t focus on all the small details I had everything on the invitations and announcements. We would recommend starting about 10 month before the planned way in advanced. I saw how truly remarkable the wedding. If you are a planning freak maybe even more. But 8. I learned I could be a control freak in the heat of Eastern Sierras are and how perfect this place is for a it can be done in less with some help. beautiful celebration of love. the moment. I learned rain on a wedding day started our marriage with a clean slate, especially the cleanest 8. We learned that we have different opinions about 9. Our wedding was a success because we didn’t sweat the Eastern Sierra rain. It only rained after our vows on planning a wedding, but we compromised with each other small stuff. the hike down. and it work out well. 10. The thing that surprised me the most was the amount 9. Our guests and family. 9. Making it us, we put lots of personality into everything. of guests that did not RSVP. We had to do a lot of follow up to see what guests were coming and which were not. In 10. It surprised me how much the guests cared about 10. That planning took a lot more time than we first the end the numbers all balanced themselves out. who our officiant was. Everyone was happy in the end thought, but we also put a lot of thought into it. but we had to hear everyone’s opinion. 11. Make sure your guest list is thought about thoroughly. 11. We didn’t really need a to plan the Once this number is set you can create a budget and a 11. If you have your mind set on an idea or thought, wedding, but we could have used one on the wedding day, game plan for venue, theme, etc. In the week leading up don’t share it with anyone until you have to. Their to help with making the reception run smooth and leave us to the wedding spend some quality time with your soon to reaction may change your mind or they won’t to just enjoy our day in full. be husband. Go for a walk and escape the wedding talk; understand. I regret getting so excited I would tell just be with each other. everyone little details about my wedding and they *Kimmy is a co-owner of Mimi’s Cookie Bar in Mammoth. Learn more about would say something critical or negative making me Mimi’s in the ‘Just Desserts’ section of this guide. regret sharing. Make the day about you two.

eastern sierra Wedding Guide 2012 17 Special Event Hair & Makeup 760-392-0092 hairbycarrieg.com

2013 eastern sierra wedding guide

To be included in the 2013 Eastern Sierra Wedding Guide Contact Lara Kirkner 760.914.0678

[email protected] just desserts

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1 With a focus on organic and local products 3 One helluva wedding cake! Sue Ebersold, owner of Stellar Brew offers specialty cakes, cupcakes The Breakfast Club delivers taste, dependability and catering. With Stellar Brew there’s local and style in one dessert package. love in every bite. 4 Offering fun alternatives such as organic cupcakes, 2 Lori’s Piece of Cake is your choice for milk and cookie bars, and more, Mimi’s Cookie Bar professionally decorated cakes. Your ideas plus customizes its offerings to meet your needs. their experience creates the combination to 3 meet your needs. * See the Marketplace and Directory sections of the guide for dessert provider’s contact information.

eastern sierra Wedding Guide 2012 19 wedding checklist

1 year to 6 months prior 1 month to two weeks prior Announce the engagement to friends and family Plan makeup and hairstyling, book professional stylists if desired Choose a wedding date Send out as many final payments as you can Announce the engagement in your local paper Get your hair cut and colored, if desired Decide whether you want an indoor or outdoor wedding Purchase wedding accessories, such as favors and place cards Select the colors, theme, and details of your wedding Finalize all music with the DJ or entertainment provider Choose and book a location and officiant for your wedding Choose and book your reception location 2 weeks ahead Select the caterer and choose a wedding cake Finalize all details with caterer and provide an updated guest count Choose a florist and start planning your wedding flowers Confirm all arrangements with your florist Book the musical entertainment and master of ceremonies Obtain all necessary tickets and confirmations for your Find a photographer and/or videographer Assemble your guest list 1 week ahead Make a bridal registry Pack for your honeymoon Decide on bridesmaids Give the wedding party their gifts Choose the remainder of the wedding party Hold the rehearsal dinner Start shopping for and bridesmaids Attend bachelor/ Begin thinking about your preferred honeymoon location day before 6 months to 3 months prior Relax with family and friends Finalize your guest list Get wedding manicure Choose your invitations The bride should stay with loved ones and retire early Arrange transportation to/from the wedding and reception Mail invitations your wedding day Purchase the wedding gown and veil Stay calm and enjoy your day! Purchase the bridesmaids dresses Purchase or arrange for rental of groom/groomsmen tuxedos Book your honeymoon destination and travel plans Plan the rehearsal dinner

3 months to 1 months prior Have mothers of the bride/groom choose their dresses Plan and send invitations to the rehearsal dinner Confirm all catering, floral and other details Obtain the Purchase the wedding rings Create your wedding programs Make a list of people giving toasts

20 eastern sierra Wedding Guide 2012 AT THE TOP OF CALIFORNIA

TIE THE KNOT IN A BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAIN SETTING

You’ve found your perfect spouse, why not get married in the perfect place? Whether you’re looking for an elegant evening, an adventurous thrill or both – Mammoth W ingsMountain can orchestrate the wedding of your dreams. s Breathtaking lakeside + mountaintop venues s Dedicated and knowledgeable team of wedding specialists s World-class resort amenities s Year-round activities for your guests s Summer air service from Los Angeles s Winter air service from Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, Orange County and San Diego

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