Oregon Bride Magazine Best of 2011

Ok - this blog post is WAY overdue! You may have seen the great news on our Facebook page - but we wanted to write about it on here as well! This past summer we went up to Portland for the Oregon Bride Magazine's Best of 2011 award ceremony - and I'm SO honored to announce that Stargazer Weddings won in TWO categories! We won "Best Day-of-Coordinator" and "Best Planner" in the Willamette Valley! We truly worked with some amazing vendors and clients this past year, and I can not say thank you enough to everyone that voted! I can't express how much I appreciate all of the love and support over the years as Stargazer Weddings continues to grow!

We had a great time at the event, and I enjoyed hanging out with some of my favorite vendors - most of which were also honored that evening for being the "Best of 2011" or being in the top 3! To all my fellow vendors - congratulations, you deserve it! It was great to see all of your hard work over the year recognized and appreciated by clients and fellow vendors! I enjoyed working with you this past year, and am looking forward to working with you again during 2012!


I started this business because I truly have a passion for helping couples and their family, friends, and guests enjoy the wedding day stress free. You spend so much time planning, anticipating, and waiting for "your day" to get here - that everyone should be able to actually enjoy it - not be worrying about all the details! I did not have a coordinator at my own wedding - and it's the one thing I would have done differently! If you'd like to read all about how Stargazer Weddings got started or the meaning behind the name, click the highlighted links!


Time sure has flown by fast - and it's already time to vote for Oregon Bride Magazine's Best of 2012! If you think we're deserving of these awards again, please head over to Oregon Bride Magazine and VOTE! (Be sure to select the Willamette Valley ballot, and you need to vote in at least 6 categories for your vote to count. You're allowed to vote once per email address and voting closes March 1st). Again, thank you everyone for all of your support through the years - we're looking forward to our 2012 season and continuing to "let your details shine!"

Jon and D'Laura's Review ~ 6.18.2011

"Ashley Lacer was an amazing wedding planner! She really listened to my vision for my wedding and helped me to find the right vendors for me.

Ashley was also considerate of my budget, which was really important to me and my finance. Ashley went above and beyond in the last couple of days before the wedding, including picking up the dance floor and my wedding dress! She was very helpful on the day to make sure things flowed smoothly and I didn't have to worry about a thing.

I would recommend her to any and every bride. Ashley's dedication to making your day special is incredible and, without her support, I wouldn't have had my perfect day. She is a special wedding planner and any bride would be lucky to have her!" ~ D'Laura





Photos by I and M Photography

6.18.2011 ~ Pretty in Pink

This past June, D'Laura and Jon were married at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Albany. D'Laura started off the day by getting her hair and makeup done at The Retreat in Corvallis, and she looked beautiful! She found her stunning dress at Shirley's Fashions, and it couldn't have been more perfect for her! I know how important the dress was to her - and I was SO excited when she called me and told me she had found "the one." She sent me some pictures of her trying it on and I loved it! Denice of Distinctive Designs made the bouquets for all the ladies and the floral arrangements for the church - and they were stunning! I always love working with Denice - she really listens to the clients and provides the exact look they're looking for.





They kept the day traditional, waiting to see each other for the first time when she walked down the aisle. It was fun to watch the anticipation and excitement grow for the two of them - they couldn't wait for the ceremony to start so they could see each other and finally be married! Father Jack conducted a beautiful ceremony...but my favorite part? Jon sang for D'Laura and he has an AMAZING voice - it was so touching!





After the ceremony, the Maid of Honor and Best Man surprised the bride and groom with a limo to the reception! They were floored - they were NOT expecting that at all! It was sweet to see their friends pull off this surprise. The reception was held at the Alumni Center at Oregon State University. This was a great space that was a "clean slate" so you could really make it into exactly what you want. OSU Catering provided the food, and not only was it really yummy, but their staff was great to work with as well. Myriad Cake Design made the cake AND all those super cute truffles with their initials on them. I loved the unique "S" shape of the cake table - it was a great way to display all the tasty treats!





A family member put together the centerpieces, and a close friend of the groom did the DJ'ing. It was great to see D'Laura and Jon loved so much by their family and friends. The speeches were hilarious and one of my favorite pictures from the day is the one of them laughing during the Best Man's speech. Everyone had a great time at the reception and there was lots and lots of dancing! I learned that D'Laura and Jon have some serious dance moves - romantic "dip" and all.





Throughout the day Maalaea and Ian of I and M Photography were capturing all the special moments and little details. I always love getting to work with this team, and I love their photography! Although the rain was present here and there...the weather held out so they could get some great pictures of D'Laura and Jon outside of the Alumni Center. I had such a great time working with this couple and watching all of their planning come together. I've known D'Laura for a few years, and I'm SO happy for her and Jon! She couldn't have found a more perfect husband for her! Congrats again you two - and enjoy your New York adventure!

Love Story: D'Laura & Jon

Our Story

I first saw Jon at Oregon State in 2004, during our first week as freshman. I thought he was really cute, which surprised me because I had never really been attracted to a red head before. A few weeks later, I was running down the stairs in Finley Hall to let my laundry out of the dryer when I slipped and fell into Jon’s arms. I was mortified and couldn’t do much more than stutter. Jon asked me if I was ok and then set me down and continued on his way. After that, we hung out a few more times during the school year and developed a friendship.

The next school year saw us both back in Finley and living on the same floor. I found that I really liked him and wanted to date him but didn’t know what to do about it. Jon, as it turned out, was in the same boat. We had planned to go with a couple friends to my parent’s house in Myrtle Creek to watch to Beaver football game and hang out. Apparently our friends knew something we didn’t and they canceled so it ended up that Jon and I were the only ones who went. We had a rather romantic weekend and, best of all, I found that Jon really liked my herd of goats! I knew then that he was my one and only. He asked me out when we got back to Corvallis and we’ve been inseparable ever since!

The Proposal

Jon and I had been talking about marriage for a couple of years and had been looking for an engagement ring that we both could love. We finally found it in my hometown. In December 2009, Jon went into the shop to talk pricing with the owner and I went down the ways to the mall to finish up Christmas shopping. Little did I know that Jon bought the ring right then and there. I thought he might propose on New Year’s Eve, but no such luck. I figured that he just hadn’t bought the ring yet.

About a week later, Jon was out at his tutoring job and I was home alone with the two cats, Jasmine and Shirpa. I went into Jon’s ‘man cave’ to work with the GRE prep program. I wanted to turn the TV on for background noise and went looking for the remote in Jon’s desk. I saw a velvet box and thought it was his Eagle Scout award. While continuing my search for the remote, I knocked the box out of the drawer and it popped open. Shirpa immediately jumped on the contents of the box and ran for it. I chased him all over the apartment and finally caught him in the living room. I pried open his mouth and out popped the engagement ring. I was stunned!

I quickly put it back in the box in the desk and tried to pretend that I didn’t see it. Of course, as soon as Jon came home I confessed to having found it. He laughed and said that it was ok. I thought he’d propose then but, again, no such luck. He said that I expected it and that ruined some of the fun of it, so not tonight. Three days later Jon asked me to help him in the office with setting up a game system. I did and found myself doing nothing. Then Jon pulled me onto his lap, held me, kissed, and then asked me to spend the rest of forever with him. I cried a bit, punched his shoulder, and said yes!

Photos by I and M Photography

Mike and Stacy's Review ~ 5.28.2011

"Our wedding day was absolutely amazing!! From the wonderful vendors that we were blessed to work with to the seamless timeline of the days events, Ashley and Melissa made our perfect day come to life.

When my husband and I got engaged one of my first phone calls was to Ashley, my best friend, matron of honor, and go to person for all things wedding related. I think she was almost as excited as I was!! Her recommendations for vendors were always on point and never disappointed. She was there to help with anything and everything. I couldn't imagine our special day with out her :) Melissa was also fantastic to work with and took care of all of our "day-of" preparations. If there was a problem or mishap on our wedding day no one knew it because she was there taking care of everything.

They made it easy for my husband, myself, and both of our families to relax and just enjoy the day. They are great to work with and I couldn't thank them enough for all of their help!" ~ Stacy

Photo by 5th and 59th Photography

5.28.2011 ~ Pure Paradise

This wedding is very dear to my heart - it was my best friend's wedding! I was SO honored to be Stacy's Matron of Honor and help with the wedding...it was SO much fun! The groom (Mike) is also a very close friend of my husband (yes, also named Mike) and me, so it was all around amazing! They might have met through us, but I give God all the credit! They definitely complete each other and I LOVE seeing them so in love! Okay, okay - about the wedding!

Where to begin!?! Let's start with the venue. Choosing where you get married is usually number one on the list of things to do when planning - and I was happy to be a part of this whole process with them. We spent a LOT of time going and visiting different venues...but the second we arrived at Paradise Springs it was obvious that this was the venue for them. No other venue before or after that would do...Paradise Springs it was! Talk about a truly breathtaking venue...from the moment you arrive you're in awe of how gorgeous it is. The romantic covered, lighted pathway to the ceremony and reception area...the stunning view from the gazebo...the serene pond and waterwheel...all the wood accents...and the reception hall? To die for. Not only is the venue itself amazing - but the family that runs it as well. Amy and her husband paid attention to every detail and made you feel like a part of their family. It honestly was one of the best venues I've ever had the pleasure of working with.

Another aspect I LOVE about this venue is that when you rent it, you get it for the ENTIRE weekend. PLUS they have a wonderful house that you can rent right next to the reception hall! We were all able to go to the rehearsal, have the rehearsal dinner on site, spend the night (they even have a hot tub), and start getting ready the next day without having to worry about traffic or getting there on time! Our day started with the talented ladies of Face Body Beauty. I've had the pleasure of working with them numerous times (including my own wedding) and they are flawless! They make you feel the way you should on your wedding day - radiant! It's also a fun, memorable time to get "dolled up" with all of you closest friends and family members...and the staff at Face Body Beauty fit right in and laugh along side you! You feel like you've known them for years!


The stunning dress was provided by The Bridal Gallery in Salem. Angie (the owner) will literally go to any length to make sure your dress is perfect for you! She cares for her brides more than I can express - and I LOVE sending my brides to her! The Bridal Gallery also provided the veil, hair accessories, bridesmaid dresses, and the tuxes for the guys! It was a one-stop-shop with impeccable service and quality! Shopping for the dress was a total blast - and let me tell you...when you "know"...you know! Once she put "her" dress on - it was like the venue - she just knew it was the one.


Now, on a personal note...the "getting ready" part of the day was really meaningful to me. Watching the excitement on Stacy's face (I could hear it in her voice too) was priceless. So many things had led to this day, this moment...and I couldn't WAIT for her to see her groom for the first time. One of the most important things for Stacy was that "first moment" that Mike would see her. And let me tell you what - she was STUNNING! Every time I look at these pictures I can't help but smile. I remember walking with her to help her with her dress...and then "letting go" so she could walk to her groom, her best friend, her soon to be husband. I'm pretty sure she literally took his breathe away. Mike sure is one lucky man!

During all of these events, Brittany of 5th and 59th Photography was right by our side, documenting all the special moments. She truly has an eye for "catching the moment" as well as making sure to catch all the little details along the way as well. Her pictures speak for themselves! Not only does she have amazing talent, but she's really easy to work with as well!

Now, I'm a pretty sentimental person for those of you that know me...and the ceremony was one of the most heartfelt and sincere ceremonies I've ever heard. I shed a tear a time or two...the first was when Stacy and her father walked through the glass double doors of the reception hall to begin her walk down the aisle. As I mentioned before, she was simply stunning. She instantly made eye contact with Mike...and their eyes were locked on each other the whole time (with the biggest smiles I'd ever seen)! I was bursting with overwhelming joy for Stacy and Mike! When it came time for the vows, Mike had written a special vow to their (at the time) 16 month old son. I don't think there was a dry eye in the house (I know mine weren't)! The rings were exchanged, the "I do's" were said, and now it was time to party!

After the ceremony, the guests entered the reception hall and found their name on a cut-out leaf (all made by an amazing bridesmaid) that corresponded to a specific table. The table linens were provided by SHE Designs in Salem. She has great quality rentals and makes the whole process a breeze by separating all linens by table instead of size...it makes setting up much easier! Stacy really loved the "pin-tuck" look - and so did I! I love something different, and it looked so elegant and really pulled together the whole look she was going for.


As a wedding favor, Mike and Stacy had ordered crayons from Twigs and More - but they weren't just any crayons! They were made out of little twigs! They were a HUGE hit with the guests - they were such a hit that there wasn't a SINGLE ONE left at the end of the night. I loved this unique, fun favor! All of the centerpieces were filled with espresso beans - which provided a rich brown color and a great aroma!


A VERY talented family friend, Collin, did all of the flowers! He definitely went above and beyond and the colors were perfect! Our Daily Bread did the catering and it was yummy! It was my first time working with them, and I was impressed! They always made sure the food was stocked and were very attentive to the details. Music and announcing was by BMAC Productions, yet another great vendor I had the pleasure of working with for the first time! Everything was announced on time, names were pronounced correctly, and music always started at the right time with perfect transition.


And that gorgeous cake? That was made by the talented team at Haute Cakes and Confections. And yes, it tasted as good as it looks! One of my favorite parts of the whole day was the special "groom's cake" that Stacy had made for Mike. If you couldn't tell...he's a firefighter / paramedic...and Haute Cakes did an AMAZING job of making a 3D fire truck! It was made even more special because Mike had NO idea about this...we all cleared the reception room so Stacy could surprise him with it - he was stunned! I love, love sweet moments like this!


This wedding was SO spectacular, that it even got published on an online wedding inspiration blog, Le Magnifique! I'm a huge fan of this blog - there's giveaways, photos, and all things wedding! The blog is always posting new things for all styles! Here's their writeup about Mike and Stacy's wedding!

I was pretty busy this day...so I wanted to give a huge thank you to Melissa, who ran most of the "day of" coordination for me so I could be by Stacy's side and soak in all the memories of the day with her. I could look at these pictures again, and again, and again...and never get tired of looking at them - there are endless amazing memories from the day! I could probably write a blog twice as long too, going over all the memories! Mike and Stacy - "my Mike" and I couldn't be happier for you and we're honored to be a part of sharing in so many parts of not only your wedding, but in your lives as well. We have lots, lots more memories to make in the future! We love you!