Rip Caswell Gallery

Yesterday was my day off, and Josh and I decided to stop in to visit a friend that works at Troutdale Tattoo. If you haven't been to visit downtown Troutdale, I would definitely recommend it! Granted its about a block long, right in front of the police station, and behind the railroad tracks, but it is the cutest little block. Its almost like wandering into a different country because it feels so apart from Oregon, but at the same time it is the epitome of Oregon's nature.

Well, we were just about to head out, and we saw this massive gallery located right next to the bridge and decided to stop in. Rip Caswell does some amazing artwork! I'm not going to go into detail about the art itself, but I'm hoping that you will click on the conveniently provided link and check them out for yourself. I promise you though, that what you see on the website does not compare to what you see in person.

The entire gallery underwent an entire rebuild, and is breathtaking. The space is truly the golden goose of this story though. The gallery is available for events, and is perfect for a wedding reception, engagement party, or even a tiny ceremony. My first thought was that it would be excellent for corporate events, but when Kathy (the very friendly Director) informed me that the sculptures could be wheeled out to allow for the entire space to be used, I knew I had to share this with you. This gem of a location is a little off of the beaten path, but the impression that it will leave on your guests, and the memories it will create for you are worth it.

In case you missed it, check out the website, and contact Kathy!

How much tip should a good bride tip if a good bride could tip good?

It is of course expected that wedding vendors will do a great job of decorating, catering, entertaining, and just about anything that ends with an ‘ing’. While the bride is the center of attention, and enhances the beautiful occasion, it’s the vendors that pull everything together. So that poses the question: to tip or not to tip?

Tipping has always been the icing on top of the cake after great service has been received; hence tipping your cake decorator can only make your cake taste sweeter. When trying to figure out how much to tip refer to this guide (and your budget) for your answers. Remember tips are a bonus for a job well done, not a requirement!

· Always tip in cash. Cash Talk, bounced checks embarrass.

· Include a thank you card with the tip. Its good etiquette, and personalizes the relationship

· Tips should be given right before the vendor leaves the wedding

· Do not feel obligated to tip, and note that 10-15% is the normal amount, but $150 is the maximum regardless of how much the bill was.

· Business owners typically do not receive tips even if they are the ones providing the service. Reserve your cash for the workers and employees.

· Make sure to double check your vendor contract to see if gratuities are already included, some times they are!

· Designate a person to tip the vendors( like the best man, or maid of honor) so that you are not tracking down vendors during your ceremony.

Who to tip and how much?

Delivery Drivers: tipping the delivery driver $5- $10 is standard

Caterer- 15% - 20%

Waiters and Waitresses- $15 of the total bill

Valet Parking Attendants- $0.50-$1.00 per car

Stylist and Make-Up Artists- 15%- 20% if you go to the salon; if the stylist comes to you, tip them at your discretion. Figure about $3-$5 for each assistant that helps with shampooing

Bartender- 10% of total bill

Alter Boys and Girls- May be given $10 each

DJ and musicians- For employees of an entertainment company, $25 to $50 is standard

Photographers, Florist, Wedding Coordinators and videographer-: $50-$100, if they’re working for a company

Officiants: Generally do not accept tips, however might be willing to accept a donation to their house of worship, or organization on their behalf. A typical tip is between $50- $100.

Coat checkers: $1-$2 per guest which they will share.

Tipping vendors is not as complicated as it sounds, but if cash just isn’t an option, opt in for a nice bouquet of flowers, or a print from the photographer showing the vendor in action!

-S.K.

Budgeting Guidance

Hi there my Budgeting Belles!

Your wedding budget can be good or bad, either way, it is the most important part of your wedding, so stick to it! Over 50% of couples go over their wedding budget every year. Every year! Your wedding is going to be a magical event, but let us make it a smart investment, rather than a new debt.

Your budget is one of the first things that you should get a handle on. The questions you should be answering are:
1. Who is going to pay?
2. How much can you afford?
3. Where is the money coming from if we go over budget?


One great piece of advice that I can provide that might put things into perspective for you would be to allocate $100 per guest that you have. This will cover $50 for catering, and the other $50 can be budgeted into you flower, attire, music, etc. Also, plan to go over you budget. Not by a lot, just give yourself a little bit of wiggle room. You are a smart Belle, and understand that things come up: weather related incidents, accidents, dog eating the flowers…just be prepared!

The average wedding costs $21,000, with a majority of couples spending between $15000-$25000.Here is a general guide line that can be adjusted for weddings that are 15k or more. If your wedding is less than that, don’t fret, customize this list to fit your needs!

Reception ( Food, Beverage, Rental, and Site) 40-50%
Flowers 10%
Photography and Videography 10%
Brides and Grooms Attire 5-10 %
Music 5-10%
Planner or Coordinator 10-15%
Miscellaneous ( Invites, Officiant Fees, Favors, Transport) 10%
Cushion 5-15%

* Here is a great tip for later! Put all of your wedding purchases on one major credit card that offers 0% for a certain amount of months, AND GIVES REWARDS. Give a card to everyone that is in charge of paying a portion of the costs, so that you are earning rewards as you make your arrangements*

Happy Planning!

S.K.

Welcome Belles!

~Welcome Belles~

This is a great time to be getting married, and I must say congratulations! Weddings are an amazing union between two people, and a great way to allow friends and family to celebrat your love. Regardless of the size of your wedding, or the amount that you spend, Wedding Belles will be your go to blog. Please tune in for Portland featured vendors, and frequent wedding articles and tips!

Happy Planning!

S.K.