Happy July Fourth Brides

The United States celebrates the Fourth of July, or Independence Day, with fireworks as a tradition continued down through history since the initial year the country's independence was celebrated. The first celebration, which came one year after the Declaration of Independence was signed, began and ended with 13 fireworks being set off from the city's commons. After that first celebration in Philadelphia, Boston held its own celebration with fireworks, and the tradition grew from there. Explorer Richard Byrd even set off fireworks in Antarctica. The original tradition behind fireworks was to symbolize the 13 states of the union as 13 fireworks were set off at the beginning and of the celebration. However, it evolved as more states joined the union. The Fourth of July was officially declared a federal holiday in 1941, but the country has been celebrating this day since July 4, 1776. This holiday is recognized as the birth of American independence, and it is celebrated each year with a wide range of festivities including firework shows, parades, concerts and barbecues. It is a day spent celebrating patriotism and has remained an important holiday throughout American history.

Beach Weddings

Southern California has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and many couples find it perfect to have their wedding along the coast. From a toes in the sand to an overlook, couples can have a picturesque beach ceremony. Planning a ceremony along the coast can be a challenge as each City, County and State beach has different rules and regulations. These regulations may range from the number of guests allowed, to the type of decorations or structures that may be set up or may not be allowed at all. A walk on ceremony would consist of the couple, officiant, and a few guests. There would be no chairs, arch, or structures of any kind. There may be flowers. For most locations, no permit would be required for this type of ceremony except Laguna Beach which requires permits on all their beaches. For a set-up, there could be chairs, an arch, sound system, etc. This would require getting a permit through the respective governing body. This process could take anywhere from minutes to weeks to finalize the permit. Understanding how to get the correct permit and insurance for the desired location can be a bit of a challenge. Once the date, time and location is set then you can plan the details. Work with your budget to add extras. Utilizing a company that specializes in beach weddings is essential to make sure that the proper rules and regulations are followed. These companies have done all the homework and have existing relationships with the appropriate entities. It also makes it easier as these companies have all the resources to make it all come together seamlessly. They make it come together so all the couple and their family has to do is show up and say “I Do”. For more information on Beach Weddings go to: www.ElegantWindWaves.com

Father of the Bride

Father's Day weekend is here! For the Brides who are lucky enough to still have their Dad to walk them down the aisle, and share a dance with, Congratulations to you for a second time. For the Brides who have someone else walking them down the aisle, and sharing the Father-Daughter dance, let's thank them and appreciate them standing in, as well thinking about the Dads that are with you in this new endeavor in your life in spirit. It's a day your Dad has been equally dreading and dreaming of—your walk down the aisle, your dance, your good-bye. Here, some of the most loving moments captured between brides and their fathers. photos by: brides.com/gallery/father-of-the-bride-photos

OC Bridal Show on Sunday

Attention all Brides! We will see you at the Orange County Bridal Show on Sunday June 11, 2017 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | $12 Admission at the O.C. Fair Event Center, 935 Arlington Drive, Costa Mesa, 92626 Don't miss the biggest and best Orange County Bridal Show of the year. Now 2x bigger than other bridal events. Shop, compare and connect with 150 Orange County wedding vendors. Find new planning ideas, inspiration and great values at this season's largest gathering of florists, wedding venues, photo booths, photographers, disc jockeys, bridal gowns, tuxedos, entertainers, bridal beauty tips, custom invitations, vintage decor, and romantic honeymoons. See you there!

Rusty Pelican Tuesday evening

See everyone tomorrow...

Attendants' Responsibilities

Your Attendants duties include but are not limited to the following: Maid or Matron of Honor: Acts as official witness. Usually signs marriage license. Helps bride select attendants’ attire and colors. Assists at bridal showers, gift openings, and records gifts. Helps bride dress and prepare for ceremony. Holds bouquet, rearranges veil and train during ceremony. Assists bride in changing to going-away apparel. May arrange for gown cleaning or bouquet preservation. __NEXT__ Best Man: Acts as official witness. Usually signs marriage license. Helps arrange pre-wedding festivities that honor the groom. Attends and assists groom throughout wedding day. Carries rings and wedding license to the ceremony. Oversees ushers’ functions. Toastmaster at bridal table. Drives wedding car, if no limousine. Returns groom’s rental formal wear along with his own. __NEXT__ Bridesmaids: Help arrange showers and attend all pre-wedding festivities. Assist in making reception favors/filling rice bags. May light candles, attend guest book, gifts, etc. __NEXT__ Groomsmen/Ushers: Attend pre-wedding festivities that honor the groom. Groomsmen escort bridesmaids during ceremonies and reception. Ushers greet and seat all guests. Unroll aisle runner. Also distribute maps, drive cars, run errands, attend or move gifts. __NEXT__ Flower Girl: Precedes the bride down the aisle, tossing flower petals. Her dress may complement the bridesmaids, or the bride. __ AND LAST, BUT CERTAINLY NOT LEAST__ Ring Bearer/Page: Precedes bride down the aisle, bearing actual rings or replica rings secured to a satin pillow. Escorts flower girl. Apparel complements groomsmen, groom, or flower girl.

The FIFTH Anniversary Party

Join us in celebrating The FIFTH's ONE YEAR Anniversary! Because you’ve been a continuous support throughout this journey, we want to invite you to be a part of this special occasion. Starting at noon, join us for complimentary tastings and giveaways; plus get a first look at the Disneyland® Resort's Guardians of the Galaxy Ride opening from the best view in town! At 5pm enjoy live performances by Top Tribute Bands throughout the night. Celebrate Memorial Day weekend with our fully stocked bar of local brews and specialty cocktails and be one of the first to try our newly crafted menu that is sure to take our one-of-a-kind rooftop restaurant to new heights. Stay until the end and experience an incredible view of the nation’s best firework show. The celebration starts at 12pm and goes all night. A $25 ticket gives guests red carpet admission into the venue, complimentary tastings from our drink vendors and giveaways (while supplies last), plus live entertainment all night long. Show up in your best dressy-casual attire and raise a glass with us as we celebrate our first year as Anaheim's only rooftop restaurant and bar!