Real Weddings Maine

The Devil is in the Details

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 07:00:00 EST

As an event planner, Jesse knew that the details of event are the key to its success. The couple put a great deal of thought into those small details, and it made all the difference in the world. Here are a few the couple found significant:

The Wedding Favors

The brown craft paper favor boxes hung off the corners of the chairs at each setting at the reception and were decorated with chocolate brown and celadon green ribbons, as well as a monogrammed “B” and a real peacock feather. The boxes contained products that are made at or served French’s Point. The boxes for adults included Memories Made in Maine Blueberry Marmalade made by employee and dear friend Gay Dion and Winterport Company’s Oatmeal Popover mix. The oatmeal was yet another nod to the couple British heritage. Popovers are frequently served at French’s Point and have been a long standing Sunday morning tradition in the Brooks house. The teenagers’ favor boxes had Winterport Company’s Chocolate Chunk Cookie Mix. The kids favor boxes contained kaleidoscopes, rock candy, a scroll of construction paper tied with twine and washable crayons, a package of chocolate cookies and a juice box. The babies’ favor boxes contained a soft stuffed animal(bunnies for the girls and frogs for the boys) and a coordinating foam board story book, animal crackers and a juice box. Jesse and Fred wanted to be sure there was something for everyone.

The Guests Comfort Comes First

Because Jesse and Fred chose to have their ceremony outside at the gazebo in February, they had to make some accommodations for their guests comfort. The invitations notified the guests that the ceremony would be taking place outside and to dress warmly. Guests arrived that day in beautiful fur coats and heavy jackets, hats, scarves and gloves. The guests were invited to wait inside prior to the ceremony to stay warm. Upon their departure to the ceremony area the guests passed a bronze bin which contained 150 rolled throw blankets tied with an ivory satin ribbon. Tucked into each ribbon was a ceremony program and a little brass bell. They also had wrapped instant hand and foot warmers in brown craft paper tied with ribbon for guests. Many took advantage of them. Jesse and Fred were blessed with a clear and mild day with a fresh layer of snow on the ground from the night before. It made for a beautiful canvas for the ceremony. Jesse and Fred situated 8 cast iron propane heaters among the seating for the ceremony to keep guests and musicians warm. Four months later, not one compliant from a single guest has been heard about the cold that day.

The Customized Ceremony

Jesse and Fred created their own ceremony with the help of their Justice of the Peace, Capt. Barnes. He assisted the couple in personalizing their ceremony step by step. The process was really quite enjoyable. As a result, the ceremony was really about them, their friendship, their family and their marriage. The ceremony was not just something to get through before a spectacular party. It was the focal point of the day. Working with a good advisor made all the difference in the world. Jesse has worked with many a minister, priest, priestess, rabbi, and Justice of the Peace for the weddings that have taken place her eat French’s Point. Capt Barnes was outstanding because he took a personal interest in the couple, made the time and effort to guide them thorough the planning of their ceremony, and was there to keep them on track throughout the ceremony.

Highlights of the Event

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 07:00:00 EST

There are a few moments throughout the course of any wedding that will always vividly remain in the memories of the bride, the groom and their guests. There are also several key decisions that really define the nature of the event. Here are a few of Jesse and Fred’s:

The Joanie Madden Ensemble and Dancers

The music for the ceremony, cocktail hour and dinner reception was provided by world renowned Irish whistle and flute player Joanie Madden and her ensemble. Jesse fell in love with Joanie’s music when she lived abroad in Scotland and Ireland. It was a dream come true to have Joanie playing “Women of Ireland” on her whistle as her father walked her down the aisle. In fact, Joanie determined the wedding date because February 9th was the only date she could accommodate with her tour schedule. The guests at the wedding loved the lively Celtic music during dinner and the wonderful entertainment provided by the Irish Step Dancers. Hiring the Joanie Madden Ensemble and dancers for their wedding was one of the best decisions Fred and Jesse made to ensure the event was memorable and unique.

An Intimate Family Affair

Jesse and Fred chose to downsize their guest list for their winter event from 300 to 150 guests due to the capacity of the tent. They could only fit so many souls in the area they had available to them. However, at so many of the large events they have attended or hosted in the past Jesse and Fred recognized the huge burden on the bride and groom to speak with and spend time with each guest. By the end of the evening of a large event, most brides and grooms feel as though they have been in a whirlwind all day; that they barely remember a thing, and they never got to eat the food or cake, or even see their spouse during the reception. Knowing this would be the case for them as well, Jesse and Fred were happy to limit the guest list to family and the wedding party only. It is so hard to decide who should be invited and who should not, and avoid hurting anyone’s feelings. The couple did their best not to offend anyone. But in the end, they made their event about the two of them and those closest to them… their family who had always supported them. As a result, both Jesse and Fred enjoyed their wedding and the time they shared with each other and the people around them.

The Children

Both Jesse and Fred have a love for children. The children attendants in the wedding were all children that meant a great deal to both Jesse and Fred. Some argue that a wedding is too formal of an affair to include the unpredictable nature of children. This couple would adamantly argue that a wedding is the perfect place to include children. Some of the most beautiful and treasured moments throughout the weekend were provided by the junior members of the wedding party. The fleet of five mini maids and three dapper bell ringers created heart-string moments throughout the ceremony, and the reception. The photos say it all.

Heidi’s Solo

During the course of dinner hour, all the guests really enjoyed the musical entertainment and dancing provided by the Joanie Madden ensemble. However, the musical highlight of the hour was provided by flower girl, Heidi Tilton. Mid way through a dinner set, seven-year old Heidi approached the band and expressed that it was simply her turn to sing. The ensemble provided instrumental accompaniment as she sang an adorable version of the Bubble Gum song to the delight of every guest in the room!

Fireworks

In 2008, The Retreat celebrates a hundred year anniversary since the building burned flat on July 4, 1908 due to fireworks and high winds. As a result, French’s Point does not allow fireworks on the property for events. However, a highlight for Fred every year is helping as a fireman to set off the professional fireworks display in Damariscotta for July 4th. His friends(most of them firemen) are also quite fond of setting off their own private displays on occasion. Needless to say, Fred loves fireworks, so he felt they needed to be included in the wedding event. They were enjoyed during the After Party from the patio as the guests toasted marsh mellows over the copper fire pits. It was a beautiful close to the days festivities.

Next time: "The Devil is in the Details"

Sunday Morning Farewell Brunch

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 07:00:00 EST

On Sunday morning brunch was provided by Creative Catering to the guests and vendors who had stayed overnight at French’s Point. It was a nice way to say farewell to friends and family who had traveled from afar for the event. Friends and family also began helping to break down the event and clear out the tent so it could be taken down that day by Banks. Again, many hands made the task expeditious. Guests departed over the course of the day. Jesse’s mother’s family remained to have a family meeting at The Farm and the kids made good use of the time by building and bride and groom snow sculpture beside the road which bid all of the guests farewell as they departed French’s Point that day.

Next time: "Highlights of the Event"

The After Party

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 07:00:00 EST

At 10:00pm after the last dance, guests were invited to the patio where the propane heaters had been set up and they sat around four copper fire pits and toasted marsh mellows for smores while they watched a fireworks display set off at the bluff. It was a magical end to the evening.

Next time: "Sunday Morning Farewell Brunch"

The Dinner Reception

Fri, 08 Aug 2008 07:00:00 EST

Guests were ushered out to the heated tent for the dinner reception. The tent was fully floored, heated and enclosed. Each table was graced with a chocolate brown taffeta floral embroidered table cloth, clear beaded glass chargers, The Retreat leaded crystal goblets, Lenox dish and silver ware. Each chair mahogany chavari chair back was tied with a celadon green taffeta sash. Jesse and Fred’s chair sashes had a floral swag integrated into them as well. Brown craft paper favor boxes hung off one corner of the back of each chair by a celadon green taffeta ribbon with a monogrammed “B” and a real peacock feather. The tables were aglow with candle light around Flora Fauna’s stunning centerpieces. At the base of each topiary was a beautifully framed table name card which was printed over a peacock feather screened cream paper. Two table assignment charts directed guests by name to their tables. Each table was named after a point, bay, or cove along the Maine coastline that had meaning to Jesse or Fred. The head table was designated “French’s Point” which sat Jesse, Fred, Robert (the Man of Honor) and Josh (the Best Man).

Once the guests were settled at their seats in the tent, the bridal party was announced into the tent. Robert N. Brooks(father of the bride) and his wife Bonnie(mother of the bride) made a speech welcoming the guests and wishing the couple happiness in their new life together. Next, Robert W.H. Brooks, the man of honor made a humorous and heart-warming speech about family commitment, the nature of his relationship with his older sister and how they had become the closest of friends as adults. Josh Pinkham, best man followed with a witty toast begging the bride to allow Fred “Man Time” when needed. Jesse and Fred finished up the speeches with a thank you to their guests for joining them mid winter, mid tax season, outside in the snow. Then Fred kicked off the celebration by cutting the top off a champagne bottle with a saber the couple purchased on a trip to Napa, CA. It was quite the site to see.

Menu cards at each setting also acted as place cards with a note from the bride and groom which stated “Thank you for joining us as we celebrate the beginning of our new life together. Please enjoy this meal prepared just for you.” A blessing was given by Rev. Carlton Russell who is a neighbor and family friend to Robert and Bonnie Brooks. Dinner was served by Robinhood immediately following the blessing. At this time, the Joanie Madden ensemble entertained the guests with lively Celtic music and two Irish step dancers from Boston performed as well. They were a huge hit with the crowd, especially the children who attempted to dance along with them.

The Menu

Salad

Baby Arugula, Red and Yellow Beets with Herbed Chevre and a Balsamic Drizzle
served with
Warm Meetinghouse Cream Cheese Biscuits and Memories Made in Maine Blueberry Marmalade.

Intermezzo

Lavender Sorbet in Lemon Wedges

Entrée

Grilled Marinated Filet Mignon in Garlic, Red Wine, Cracked Black Pepper, Rosemary, with Berre Rouge
Served with Meetinghouse Potatoes and Haricot Vert

or

Gilled Fresh Salmon with Apricot Chutney
Served with Meetinghouse Potatoes and Haricot Vert

or

Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce and Parmesan
Served with Fresh Vegetables

For the Children…

Penne Pasta with cracked pepper and Parmesan Cream Sauce
Served with Fresh Vegetables

Dessert

Butter Cream Frosted Wedding Cake
-Lavender white Cake with White Chocolate Crème
-Classic Butter Cake with Blueberry Filling
-Orange and Ginger Carrot Cake with Grand Marnier Cream Cheese Crème
-Classic Butter Cake with English Lemon Curd Crème

Butter Cream Frosted Groom’s Cake
-Bourbon Chocolate Fudge Cake with Raspberry Swiss Meringue Filling

The amazing wedding cake was provided by Owen Dyer of Confection Art from York, Maine. It was five tiers of butter cream frosting decorated with peacock feathers, fiddle heads, ferns and roses. Jesse had requested a Groom’s cake which was a replica of Fred’s firemen’s helmet as a surprise to him. When time cake for the cake cutting, Jesse knew it would be a messy affair. Both she and Fred are highly competitive. The first bite was sweetly exchanged, but what ensued surprised all the guests, including Event Planner Kate Parker who had the daunting task of trying to assist the bride with clearing the icing from her face and dress. By the time the battle had ended, both were covered in cake and the battle was a draw.

At the close of dinner service, the Joanie Madden Ensemble departed and DJ Ryan Parker of Kate Parker Weddings took over with the dance music. The couple had their first dance to Colbie Callait’s song “Bubbly”. Jesse then danced a tearful first dance with her father to Tim McGraw’s “My Little Girl”. Tribute songs to other special guests played throughout the evening. The guests had a wonderful time dancing to a range of music throughout the evening. Guests enjoyed a slideshow of photos of the weekend’s events created by Cyndi Smith thirty minutes prior to the viewing. It was a wonderful way to wind down the reception and reminisce about the weekends events.

Next time: "The After Party"

The Cocktail Hour

Wed, 06 Aug 2008 07:00:00 EST

While Jesse and Fred had photos outside with the family as the sun set, the rest of the guests made their way inside The Retreat for the cocktail reception. They were greeted by The Retreat’s Bar Manager Maureen Bradbury and bar staff who gave them mugs of warm mulled cider, hot chocolate, and delicious coffee drinks, in addition to a full open bar and signature cocktails which included The Retreat’s signature “Bluebini” and “Alexander Baby’s”. The bar held four beautiful beverage jars with fresh flowers and fruit floating in them, with a red sangria, a white sangria, French’s Point Punch and a lavender iced tea.

The Joanie Madden ensemble continued to play once inside for the cocktail hour. Wedding guests enjoyed the roaring fireplaces and wonderful hors d’ oeuvres provided by Robinhood Free Meeting House. The wedding party spent the cocktail hour on the second floor in the bridal suite enjoying drinks and hors d’ oeuvres. The Retreat was set up with one area with couches and lounge seating, one area set up with high top cocktail tables and chairs in front of the fire, and one area with four foot round cocktail tables for guests. Guest signed the Polaroid guest book while they awaited the commencement of the dinner reception.

Next time: "The Dinner Reception"

The Ceremony

Mon, 04 Aug 2008 07:00:00 EST

The ceremony was something out of an enchanted dream. Jesse and Fred were blessed with a clear and mild day with a fresh layer of snow on the ground from the night before. It was as though Mother Nature was giving the couple her own gift. It made for a beautiful canvas for the ceremony. Jesse was escorted down the aisle by her father and business partner Robert N. Brooks. The music for the ceremony was provided by world renowned Irish whistle and flute player Joanie Madden and her ensemble. Jesse met Fred at the gazebo with tears and smiles.

At the beginning of the ceremony Jesse and Fred included a section called “The Family Legacy”. They wanted to further honor their family. They chose to give their grandmothers and mothers hugs and kisses and a handkerchief embroidered with lavender at the start of the ceremony. They also wanted to acknowledge their grandparents and Jesse’s sister that had passed away. Capt. Barnes read “Remember Me” by an unknown author and “He Wishes for the Cloths of Heaven” by W.B. Yeats as Jesse’s mother Bonnie lit a flower adorned glass “Legacy Lantern” that would burn throughout the night to commemorate those that could not be with them that day in body, but were in spirit. That lantern was carried inside after the ceremony and sat on the legacy table which held photos of all the departed. Jesse and Fred intend to light that lantern every year on their anniversary.

Jesse’s cousin and bridesmaid Kim Tilton(who set the couple up on their first date) sang a beautiful rendition of “I Will Be Here” by Steven Curtis Chapman during the ceremony. She was accompanied by the Joanie Madden Ensemble. Capt. Barnes helped the couple to write the Exchange of Rings. At the close of the ceremony, Jesse and Fred rang the French’s Point bell that sits next to the gazebo while the guests rang the little brass bells they had been given with their programs. They also lit sparklers as the couple walked back down the aisle to the lively Legacy Jig. Jesse and Fred departed by horse drawn sleigh which was waiting for them just off the patio. The sleigh took them on a ride around the fields as wedding guests looked on. Throughout the course of the cocktail hour, the sleigh gave rides to the guests. The children loved it. It was a wonderful way to integrate Jesse’s love of horses into the event.

Next time: "The Cocktail Hour"

The Wedding Party Processional

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 07:00:00 EST

Jesse and Fred chose to honor their parents and grandparents by including them all in the wedding party. Fred’s maternal grandmother Polly French’s entered first, followed by Jesse’s maternal grandmother Bernadette Tilton escorted by her maternal step-grandfather Edgar Douglas. They were followed by Jesse’s paternal grandmother, May Brooks who was escorted by her son and Jesse’s uncle, James Brooks. Fred’s father William Brewer and Fred’ step-mother had already been seated. Fred’s mother Drusilla Sanford was escorted in by Fred’s step-father Carl Sanford. Then Jesse’s mother was escorted down the aisle by her son, Jesse’s brother and Man of Honor, Robert W. H. Brooks.

The parents and grandparents were followed by the Justice of the Peace- Captain Kenneth Barnes who also played the bagpipes to lead Fred and the groomsmen down the aisle. The groom and the groomsmen wore boutonnières with fiddle heads and peacock feathers. Fred’s feather was white while the other were colored. Fred was followed by Best Man Joshua Pinkham(Fred’s best buddy), and groomsmen LCDR David Britt(a naval officer and Fred’s good friend from Bath), Joseph Salcido(Fred’s college roommate), Daryl Frasier(Fred’s good friend from Damariscotta), and Ethan Lowell(Fred’s college roommate).

The bridesmaids entered next in the following order carrying flower adorned glass lanterns with lit candles instead of a bouquet:

Jodi McGary(Jesse’s good friend from Pittsfield) carrying her daughter Jr. flower girl Laney McGary, Lauren Medley Esq(Jesse’s childhood friend from growing up at French’s Point from Knoxville, TN)., Kristyn Plamondon(Jesse’s good friend from Pittsfield), Rebecca Jinno(Jesse’s good friend from college), Bobbi Brewer (Fred’s sister), and Kimberly Tilton(Jesse’s cousin and friend).

The bridesmaids were followed by the adorable hand bell ringers:

Jaimen Tilton (Jesse’s younger cousin) who got a bad case of stage fright just before the event began, Kyle Tilton(Jesse’s younger cousin), and Jenks Britt(Fred’s good friend from Bath).

The bell ringers were followed by the ring barer, Sydney Tilton(Jesse’s younger cousin).

Sydney was followed by the flower girls:

Hayden Britt(Fred’s good friend from Bath), Heidi Tilton(Jesse’s younger cousin), and Vivian Tilton(Jesse’s youngest cousin). The flower girls all threw dried lavender from their chocolate brown satin baskets. As people walked down the aisle it released the intoxicating aroma of lavender which is so relaxing.

Next time: "The Ceremony"

Attire

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 07:00:00 EST

Fortunately, Jesse had already purchased a Lazaro gown from Madeleine’s Daughter in Portsmouth, NH when they were planning a wedding in the fall. So the dress was there. That would have been the biggest challenge with an expedited planning process. Most gowns if ordered can take 6 weeks to 6 months to arrive. The gown was a strapless ivory design with a gold sash, amber, brown and pink floral embroidery on the train of the sash. Jesse had her friend and seamstress Sandi McKeen make a bolero jacket for her to wear at the reception out of chocolate brown alpaca. She also had a long ivory cape with a wide hood made that was trimmed in brown alpaca wool. Sandi made a purse with a real peacock feather fastened to it as a gift. Jesse was able to find some ivory colored wooly boots to wear during the ceremony and gold ballet flats for the reception(she never ended up changing shoes because she was in and out so frequently. She wore a six pence tie to her boot in a pale blue bag for good luck. Her head piece was a custom piece designed by Suzanne Millinery in Great Britain, as well as her ear rings. The head piece was made of amber and green glass beads in the shape of whimsical flowers that crept across her head. She wore ivory winter gloves during the ceremony.

The bridesmaids wore chocolate dupioni silk two-piece gowns designed by Watters and Watters that they purchased from Madeleine’s Daughter in Portsmouth, NH. Jesse gave the girls celadon green capelets, ivory scarves and ivory gloves to wear during the ceremony. She didn’t want them to get cold. Each bridesmaid wore brown boots during the ceremony and ivory cardigan sweaters during the reception. Some work long johns under their dresses for and added layer of warmth!

The flower girls and ring baress wore ¾ length sleeved chocolate brown silk gowns with ivory sashes. Jesse gave them celadon capelets, ivory gloves, ivory scarves, and ivory ear muffs. They too wore brown boots and long johns during the ceremony. They also wore ivory cardigans during the reception after they removed their capelets.

The groomsmen, man of honor, male honor attendants, and Jesse’s father all wore Chocolate brown tuxes from Calvin Klein which they rented from Madeleine’s Formal in Portsmouth, NH. The vests colors ranged from ivory for Fred, to gold for the groomsmen and bell ringers. Madeleine’s was able to get a local tux shop to deliver a new shirt on Friday night when Jesse’s father realized his sleeves were 4 inches too short. Talk about service.

Next time: "The Wedding Party Processional"

The Wedding Day Schedule

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 07:00:00 EST

The format for the event would have the ceremony outside at the gazebo, cocktail hour inside The Retreat on the main level, and dinner and dancing in the heated and enclosed 46’x84’ oblong tent connected by an enclosed marquis to The Retreat. The after party would take place around copper fire pits on the patio with smores and fireworks to finish off the evening.

Next time: "Attire"

The Wedding Day

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 07:00:00 EST

Saturday morning Jesse awoke at 4am. Unable to sleep she began her daily “To Do” list and started checking things off that list. By 9am a veritable army of reinforcements had descended upon The Retreat, to help prepare for the wedding. Among them were Lena Hartford of Hair That Moves and Joanne McDonough of Joya Beauty, both of whom are from Dover, NH. The pair provided amazing hair and make up services for all the bridesmaids, mothers, and grandmothers in the Bridal suite at The Retreat. The ladies also enjoyed brunch which was delivered by Creative Catering that morning. It was so nice to be pampered. The children enjoyed ideal sledding and snow shoeing conditions on the hill behind The Farm, which helped to pass the time. The groomsmen and their wives went out to breakfast and then returned to French’s Point to help with the preparations. Everyone pitched in shoveling, setting up chairs, setting fire pits, salting walk ways. Inside the tents the floral transformation had begun as Judy, Kelly, and Dolly began installing their arrangements and finalizing the details.

Next time: "The Wedding Day Schedule"

The Week Begins

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 07:00:00 EST

The week began with Sperry’s tent delivery and set up commencement on Wednesday. The tent was located in the closest section of the parking area just next to The Retreat. The weather had cooperated with a major thaw the week prior and Jesse’s friend Vern Thompson of Thompson’s Landscaping in Stockton Springs, was able to bring in five loads of reclaim to level the ground surface for the tent flooring in advance of colder temperatures on Wednesday. The tent was erected and the floor was laid in one day. Banks and his crew knocked off the task as though a tent set up in the cold of winter was a daily task. The first of the friends (Doug and Lori Cummings) providing help with the set up and preparations arrived on Wednesday as well and checked into The Farm’s accommodations. Without Lori and the rest of the Cummings Clan, it is quite certain that Jesse and Fred would not have pulled everything together in time.

Deliveries of rentals came on Thursday and set up inside The Retreat commenced that day as well. Jesse and Fred’s family and friends arrived to lend a hand and spend time with the couple as the wedding day drew near. Many hands made light work of the extensive set up and snow shoveling for the event.

By Friday, The Retreat was set up for the Rehearsal Dinner which was provided by Creative Caterings’ Eileen Bartlett and Laurel Maddocks. This catering company has provided service for the majority of the events at French’s Point to date. Eileen and Laurel had done so much to help French’s Point become successful. Jesse and Fred wanted their dear friends to be a part of their big day, but as guests, not working away in the kitchen behind the scenes. So they chose to try a new caterer for their wedding reception and invited Eileen and Laurel to be guests at the wedding.

Unlike any event in The Retreat’s history, the majority of the event staff was attending the wedding as guests, so Jesse and Fred relied upon family and friends to help them bring the event together. It gave the entire weekend that much more enjoyable and meaningful. Because Jesse was not going to be able to fill her traditional role of event planner on her wedding day and she wanted her assistant Gay Dion to enjoy the event as well, she chose to bring in the best alternative to fill her shoes, Kate Parker of Kate Parker Wedding from Dover, NH. Kate, her husband Ryan and their assistants Casey and Kate arrived on Friday. They assisted with organization, preparation, and set up in the tent, as well as the rehearsal, rental coordination and communication with the caterer during the event.

On Friday, family and the wedding party began arriving around noontime and getting settled into The Farm and the Cottage for their overnight accommodations. They appeared at The Retreat around 4pm. The ceremony rehearsal was lead by Kate Parker. As the rehearsal began, the snow began to fall. The run-through was brief because of the cool night temperatures and hungry guests. The fifty guests moved inside for the rehearsal dinner which was hosted by Fred’s mother Dru and step-father Carl. Jesse and Fred gave gifts to their attendants, parents, and grand parents to thank them for their support. The bridesmaid and children attendant gifts were presented in embroidered L.L. Bean Boat Totes with all kinds of goodies in them. Welcomes were given by Robert N. Brooks(Jesse’s Father), Carl Sanford(Fred’s step-father), and then Jesse and Fred. Chris and Cyndi had assembled a wonderful slideshow of photos of the couple from their childhood right up to the wedding. Guests laughed and cried during the show. It was a wonderful tribute to the couple. This slideshow was also played the following day during the cocktail hour on the TV on a continuous loop so more guests could enjoy the show.

The rest of Friday evening was quite relaxed. The groomsmen set off some fireworks much to Jesse’s surprise. Boys will be boys! After a kiss farewell, Fred returned to The Cottage with his buddies and Jesse went upstairs to sleep in their suite at The Retreat with the couples golden retrievers, Addison and Schoodic who had joined the festivities later in the evening. Everyone was ready for some sleep.

Next time: "The Wedding Day"

The Caterer

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 07:00:00 EST

Jesse wanted the opportunity to work with a new caterer for their wedding. They try not to refer providers they have not had the opportunity to try themselves, to their clients at French’s Point. So they thought that their wedding was the perfect opportunity to use their guests as guinea pigs. They lucked out with their decision to use award winning chef Michael Gagne of Robinhood Free Meetinghouse in Georgetown, ME. They could not have picked a better company for their event. The staff was wonderful, the food was amazing, and everything went off just as they had hoped it would the first time around with this new vendor.

Next time: "The Week Begins"

The Floral Design

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 07:00:00 EST

To tackle the ambitious task of creating the floral design for their wedding, Jesse and Fred could think of no one other than Judy Bourgeois of Flora Fauna from N. Yarmouth, Maine. Judy is incredibly talented and Kelly and Dolly(Judy’s mother), her assistants are wonderful as well. Jesse wanted to create an enchanted forest feel for this event. Judy took the concept and ran with it. She created garlands of grapevine, curly willow, bay leaves, fiddle heads(as a tribute to Fred’s father and step-mother who have a fondness for them), amber glass beads, amber twinkle lights, lavender, love lies bleeding, peacock feathers and café au lait roses inside and out. She used the same materials for the four wreaths that hung on the doors of The Retreat, the two fireplace mantles, the cocktail tables, and the bar. She hung swags of florals with celadon green sashes at every finial on the center foyer stairwell inside The Retreat as well at the end of each aisle of white chairs for the ceremony seating. Inside the tent, Judy created topiary centerpieces that sat upon a live moss base and beach rocks. The height was created by white birch logs on end with wonderful draping floral tops. The centerpieces had hanging candles in them and there were candle at the bases as well. No detail was left unattended. She created beautiful floral wreaths for around the bases of the beverage jars on the bar, amazing wreaths around the bases of the bridesmaid lanterns, stunning boutineers of fiddle head and peacock feathers, and a stunning hand tied bridal bouquet of ivory roses and amber glass beads wrapped in satin and lace. For Jesse’s family, she integrated pink tea roses into the boutineers and corsages because they were Jesse’s sisters’ favorite flower. A week before the wedding an ice storm encapsulated the California crop of fresh lavender which was to be the primary flower in the design. Judy made do with dried lavender and more roses without issue. All in all, the flowers for this event were amazing!

Next time: "The Caterer"

The Photographers

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 07:00:00 EST

Jesse and Fred had already decided to work with C.A. Smith Photography of Kennebunkport, ME when they were planning their Sept/Oct event. When they changed their wedding date, one of their major concerns was if Chris and Cyndi would be available for the weekend of February 8-10. Happily the husband-wife team was able to shoot the event. Jesse and Fred had met Chris and Cyndi at a Grace Ormonde vendor event in Rhode Island three years prior. That same year, the two couples decided to stage a photo shoot at French’s Point and the couples became friends. Jesse and Fred fell in love with Chris’ photos and quiet unobtrusive demeanor, and Cyndi’s sense of fun and artistic sense. The choice of photographer for their own wedding was an easy one. The photos are proof of this fact. Chris and Cyndi recorded the weekend event from beginning to end.

Next time: "The Floral Design"

The Stationary

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 07:00:00 EST

Because the first impression that a wedding guests gets of the nature of the ensuing wedding event is the invitation or save-the-date, Jesse and Fred wanted to be sure they conveyed the impression they were trying to create thematically from the start. Jesse knew from the beginning that she would need the services of her friend Ross Cottrell of Cottrell Designs to create the stationary for their wedding. Ross had created all five of the French’s Point associated business identities and created all ad materials and brochures for the properties as well. Jesse had worked closely with him for the past seven years developing these materials. The two friends had developed and easy means of communication. They always seemed to be creatively on the same page. This made creating the custom wedding stationary and coordinating pieces a good deal simpler. Ross generously donated his time for design as a wedding gift to the couple.

They acquired the paper stock and envelopes through Rock, Paper, Scissors, in Wiscasset from a distributor called Envelopments. Each piece was created to tie the event together thematically back to the peacock feather. Ross created a screened peacock feather that rotated and moved around on each piece he designed. He also created a monogrammed “B” for the couple. Ross designed the following pieces: a rehearsal dinner invitation and response card, a wedding invitation, menu response card, accommodation card, directions card, favor labels, framed tables cards, seating charts, framed cake flavor stands, ceremony programs, individual place card/menus, and a framed Legacy table poem. All of these items were printed on iridescent ivory or burnt sugar paper in chocolate brown ink. Jesse asked calligrapher Anna Kessler of Searsport address the invitations. The pieces were simply stunning and they provided the cohesion needed to tie the event together thematically. Ross’ talented design helped evoke the emotion the couple was trying to create for their wedding celebration, from start to finish.

Nex time: "The Photographers"

The Theme

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 07:00:00 EST

When selecting a theme, Jesse thought long and hard about the characteristics of the relationship between herself and Fred. They had worked hard for what they had achieved, both independently and together, and they were both proud of that fact. The theme that she kept returning to was “pride”. What better to embody that concept than the peacock? So the iridescent color scheme was created from inspiration from the peacock feather: Celadon Green, Chocolate Brown, Gold, Amber, Pale Pink and Ivory. Jesse and Fred also wanted to honor their Scotch/Irish/British heritage so the music for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and dinner reception was Celtic, as was the general mood of the ceremony itself.

Next time: "The Stationary"

How it Came to Pass

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 07:00:00 EST

Jesse and Fred had been planning a wedding in September or October of 2008. As the owner of The Retreat at French’s Point, Jesse knew that the weather in Maine was ideal during that time of year for an outdoor waterfront event. Difficulty selecting a wedding date arose each time Fred and Jesse selected a wedding date, a client would request that particular date. As a business person, Jesse just couldn’t say no to each bride’s request. And when the flurry of reservations for the 2008 season had come to a close, it was clear, that there were no available dates for the couple to wed during their favored time of year. If they had pursued their wedding in this time frame, they would be focused on the other 30-40 events taking place in the months leading up to and after their own event. They really wanted to be able to enjoy the experience. So they discussed their feelings about what they really wanted for their wedding… their family, an intimate atmosphere, something different than the summer and fall events they hosted weekly, some thing unique to them and to French’s Point. So they said, “Why wait. Let’s go for it”? And at the end of December they chose to host their wedding event at French’s Point in the middle of the winter, on February 9th.

With 6 weeks to plan, they knew they would need to draw upon every resource they had to pull the details together in time. With Fred busy with the tax season, Jesse knew she was going to have to do most of the leg work solo to get the process moving along. Jesse had planned other weddings at French’s Point in the summer in as short a period of time as 5 weeks. But the winter backdrop posed additional challenges… primarily snow! Fortunately, they had a wonderful group of vendors that were willing to help make this crazy plan a reality. They assembled their “dream team” of vendors in short order.

Timing makes all the difference in the world. Because they had begun a major expansion project in December to add on to the main and lower levels at The Retreat, they were fairly limited in terms of seating capacity for their event. After renovations were complete in May, The Retreat would accommodate up to 300 people inside for an event. But in its’ current state, they were limited for interior seating capacity. Even with just family and the wedding party, they had 150 plus guests that would be attending the event. Therefore, Jesse spoke with her friend Bancroft Potter of Sperry Tents Seacoast. Sperry has the most beautiful event tents available for a waterfront wedding. The tents are constructed using sail cloth-like methodology and materials. The tents can only be liked to sails billowing in a breeze or angel wings. The poles inside the tent look like a tall ships mast, as they are wooden, instead of metal. They could have seated all the guests inside The Retreat for the wedding, but Jesse just couldn’t let go of the vision of a Sperry tent amidst the white snow here at French’s Point. When Banks heard what she was scheming, he didn’t say no. In fact, he said, “we have never done it, but I am sure we can!” Once Banks was on board, the event really began to come together.

Next time: "The Theme"

A beginning

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 19:08:00 EST

This first entry is always a difficult one to write...because you don’t know where to begin. Tonight my website designer Jason called to say the site was going to be going live and I needed to write my first Blog entry. Conveniently, Fred is off playing Santa Claus to his neighborhood kids as he does every year. This leaves the full responsibility of writing something both meaningful and witty in our inaugural entry, solely on my shoulders. Sadly, you will most likely read more entries written by me over the course of the next 3 months(during tax season), than you will read of Fred's. But that role will reverse as wedding season approaches. Fred is a far more entertaining writer and he has a male perspective on this wedding planning process…which I imagine many of you will find refreshing. That should make the reading far more interesting sometimes. You will also hear from our vendors in this Blog and get their input and perspective on how this event is evolving.

I am very excited about working with our arsenal of amazing vendors. I reference them with the word “arsenal” because this wedding planning process can be likened to a war. The mission is to tackle the biggest targets(details) first and eliminate these unknowns. This process continues until all unknowns (the enemy) are decimated! I know this sounds like a harsh approach to what should be a sweet, gentle, process, but we don’t approach any obstacle that way here at FP. We face things head on and beat them down to a pulp. We do this by working with the best comrades(our partnered vendors) we can form allegiances with.

We have been lucky to work with some of the best of the best since we began. The high-end wedding market in New England is changing so quickly and new providers crop up all the time. We will be expanding our great list of allies over the course of this upcoming season by working with some of the newcomers. With our wedding specifically, many of the vendors we have worked with regularly and have gotten to know quite well. Others are new to French’s Point. We are using our own wedding to try out some new vendors as opposed to using our clients as guinea pigs. Beyond that, we are excited to try something new on our wedding day and know that will lead to a new result in the end. Each wedding that takes place at FP is always unique, but we want this event to have a fresh feel for even the seasoned FP wedding veterans who will be at the event, including Fred and I.

We have seen a lot of weddings at FP…a ton to be exact. Fred knows more about weddings and all aspects of them, than any man should. He is very involved here at FP…in all aspects of the business. He would love to tell you that on any given Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, he is “five steps ahead of me” checking things off the “To Do” list. He knows the industry. He can tell you what works and what doesn’t. He can tell you where there are gaps in plans and what will really make an event memorable. You could say he is a connoisseur of weddings. Not many men would admit that to their buddies, but it is very true here. This business has educated both of us. We began dating before we reopened The Retreat. He has seen it all right along-side me. In a lot of ways, this makes our planning process easier…as long as we agree on all the points. But you will see over the course of time, we are very different and we WILL but heads occasionally. But we will settle on something eventually.

We wanted to create the RWM website so you could have the opportunity to take a birds-eye-view of the wedding planning process here at FP and experience a unique event… a wedding planned by the bride, who owns a reception venue and is the event planner for clients of FP. Hopefully you will learn something helpful and/or interesting and we you may even get some ideas for your own event. Then there are those of you who will simply find comfort in knowing that you are not alone. Even a wedding planner has the same daunting task ahead of her that many of you do…planning the ideal wedding without letting challenges effect the end result and maintaining your vision.

Send us an e-mail with your thoughts and questions. We would love to hear what you think. We all need a little help, so we are open to suggestions and novel ideas as well.

We know this event will be amazing even if something goes terribly wrong. That's because we love each other, we know we can’t control everything(but will do our best to do so), and we are doing it our way.

My next few Blog entries will fill you in our each of the vendors we are working with. If you take a look at the “Featured Vendors” page, you will see we have selected many of them…but there are many more to come.

Happy Holidays from FP. May Christmas and New Years bring all you ladies with empty ring fingers, just what you have been dreaming of!

Jesse