What makes my "Preferred Vendor List" different from any other list you will find?  It's simple . . . my candid evaluations!  You not only deserve to know who they are . . . but why I believe so much in them.  These people are not just a name and phone number to me.  They are highly regarded and accomplished individuals with a proven track record of success.  HIRE THEM and you are one step closer to having the perfect event team!  

(Note:  Vendors are listed in no particular order!)

PHOTOGRAPHERS

• The Image Gallery - Owner Paula Leyba has to be one of the nicest people in the wedding business I have met in years.  We have worked together many times, and each time is just beyond enjoyable.  I personally hire Paula to photograph the portraits of my employees and myself.  She is a master at photo detailing and re-touching.  This is especially important for blemishes or other characteristics that need to be slightly altered to make for a better photograph.  She is very organized and easy to work with.  Plan on a stress-free day with Paula behind the camera.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-348-8011

• Alison Ramsey Photography - I first met Alison when she worked for another photography company here on this list.  She didn't just pick up a camera one day and call herself a photographer.  She trained and studied her craft to perfection.  Since venturing out on her own more than a decade ago, she has become one of the most sought after photographers in the area.  Her work is amazing and her photo albums are breathtaking.  She is extremely dedicated to her craft, the wedding industry and her customers.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-265-5343

• JLM Creative Photography - I have had the pleasure to work with Christie on several occasions and she is an absolute delight to work with.  Besides her beautiful photographs, her personality simply shines!  We have had many great conversations since the first time we worked together.  She definitely understands customer service.  It is so important to have vendors who work well together.  Christie and I have enjoyed a great mutual working relationship.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-331-8733

• Johnstone Studios - Tourine and Trevor Johnstone are extremely dedicated photographers of very high caliber.  They, along with two other area photographers, have created a networking group and educational resource entitled "Commonly Different".  This is the exact type of training and education that I feel all area photographers could benefit from.  Their wedding photography is phenomenal.  The fact that they are a husband and wife team has great advantages.  Expect great attention to detail and spectacular photos.    Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-722-8647

• Zinser Photography - I have come to know Evan Zinser as an incredibly dedicated wedding photographer. I am most impressed with the manner in which he participates in the various professional avenues available to him. He constantly networks and attends seminars and wedding industry functions. This speaks volumes as it means he is gaining valuable experience that will benefit his customers. My company has worked with Evan on many occasions and each time the experience is perfect. Evan offers great photography and great customer service.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-560-6768

• Dita Photography - I began working with Sheri several years ago and I must say, I am extremely impressed with her work and work ethic.  Her on-site manner at events is extremely cooperative and pleasant.  She has a real eye for capturing some great spontaneous photographs.  Having worked with many photographers for 20 years, I know how difficult this can sometimes be.  I simply love her work.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  800-810-0888

• Gary Robison Photography - I have worked with Gary through most of my 20 years in this business.  The consistency of his work ethic and quality offerings is absolute.  Whenever I learn I will be working with Gary I breathe a great "sigh of relief" because I know how smooth and professional the experience will be.  Check out his brand new studio in Carson City.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-888-9272

• Positive Images Photography - I chose owner Annette Phillips as my photographer when I got married in 2000 to my wife Selly.  She has been in this business, full time, since the early 90's.  In the 90's, I probably worked with Annette more than any other photographer.  Besides her dedication and always upbeat personality, she is one of the few photographers out there who, besides shooting digital, can still shoot with film and she "lets you keep the negatives".  This is a big plus for many wedding couples.  She will be as excited about your wedding day as you are!  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-782-0292

Photobooth Services

• Reno PhotoBooth Company - I am a huge fan of photo booths. There is no better way to get a guest to "relax" and "loosen up" than to have them step into a photo booth. It is so important to give your guests something to do. Photo booths are great for this. Jo Lawrence (owner of the Reno PhotoBooth Company) was the very first person to bring photo booths to Northern Nevada. And you know what? She's the BEST, too!!! She's been doing it longer than anyone else. Ask Jo about their interactive Guest Books that are created right there on the spot at the wedding. They're awesome! There are many types of photo booths out there. Hers is the classic kind. The kind we all grew up with. The original. Rest assured, when you hire Jo, you're hiring the original and you'll be smiling before you ever step foot in her photo booth!  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-354-0300

VIDEOGRAPHERS

• Capturing Memories Videography - I love working with Capturing Memories Videography. They have grown over the years from a small videography company to now one of the most sought-after companies in Northern Nevada. This is because of their work ethic, customer service and sincere care in delivery a product that is second-to-none. Owners Angeliek and Colin Ard are wonderful people who are focused on their craft and interact well with other vendors. I have personally witnessed many instances where they have gone above and beyond at weddings and other events. I love working with them.   Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-225-5560

• Starling Video Productions - I have personally hired owners Rolf and Eileen Starling for many projects over the years. The quality of their work is top notch. They can shoot in high-def widescreen, can capture your celebration in a manner that is almost indescribable.  This is not Uncle Bob with a camcorder!  They can put together an amazing video movie of your event.  What I like most about them is how "stealth" they are at a reception.  They are in the background and your guests will hardly know they are there!  I cannot stress enough the importance of quality video.  Not having professional video is probably the number one "regret"  I hear wedding couples express looking back on their day!  They are members of WEVA - Wedding & Event Videographers Association International.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-883-2880

• Ever After Creations Video & Design - Craig and Vickie Musni have really worked exceedingly hard over the past few years at focusing on many aspects of their craft.  This has included; wedding organization involvement, vendor networking, seminar attendance and other levels of community involvement, interaction and education.  This sort of dedication is not often easy to find and compliments their work ethic.  The end result to such discipline and focus is a more satisfying experience for you, the customer.  They are also neighbors who live just up the street from my family.  They are a good family working very hard for their customers.   Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-624-1141

MINISTERS

• Rev. Michael Benke - Without a doubt, Michael possesses the richest, deepest and most beautiful "voice" I have ever heard from an officiant!  During ceremonies I sometimes just sit back and become entranced at how perfected his diction and delivery is.  His well-written ceremonies are thoroughly enjoyable.  For me . . . it's that voice!!!  WOW!!!  Contact Information:   e-mail  775-825-0588

• Rev. Ron Darby - Ron has been a very in-demand officiant in this area for years.  He has created some uniquely scripted ceremonies that have defined his craft.  Some people actually believe marrying someone is easy.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  Great officiants make it look easy.  Ron's beautiful scripting and smooth delivery make for some unforgettable ceremonies.  Contact Information:  e-mail  775-747-6032

• Rev. Kristopher Dahir - I love it when a minister like Kristopher comes along. He really cares. He is a pastor of a church and you are not just another wedding couple to him. This shows in every consultation, interaction and on the day of the wedding. His sincerity and genuineness truly shines. You will be very happy with Kristopher as your choice to officiate your wedding.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-770-0360

• Rev. Mark Frady - I have known Mark for almost 20 years. Mark was actually the founder of Weddings of the West - the largest wedding organization in Northern Nevada. He is driven and passionate about weddings and very focused on creating a memorable ceremony for his customers. Always a joy to work with.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-721-9016

• Rev. David Beronio - David is one of the most hard-working people I have ever seen.  His cool demeanor, poised stature and appropriate mannerisms are the personification of what an officiant should be.  What I like most about him is the sincerity of his delivery.  He is a master of speech.   His emotional delivery will reel you in and having you hanging on every word.  This is a natural characteristic of vocal delivery that is very difficult to find.   David has it!!!  Contact Information:  e-mail  800-553-1022 ext. 3

WEDDING CAKES

• Dee's Bakery - I have known owner Dee Moore for many years.  She has consistently remained one of the most dedicated people the Reno / Lake Tahoe wedding industry has ever had.  Now let's talk cakes . . . WOW!!!  Her cakes are delicious!  Her creativity is off-the-charts!  She actually studied cake design under world-renown cake designer Ron Ben Israel.  Her store front bakery is conveniently located in Reno and also serves as venue for small weddings and/or rehearsal dinners.  A little known fact about Dee is that she is also a "certified" wedding coordinator (with the Association of Bridal Consultants) and is one of the best wedding planners in the business.  Whether it's cakes or coordination . . . Dee Moore will be a great compliment to your event team.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-827-2253

• Tiers of Joy - It would be hard to find two nicer people in the wedding business than co-owners Tesla Poore and Leigh Anne Page. They are as sweet as the cakes and treats they supply for weddings. From wedding cakes to masterful custom decorated dessert tables, these ladies really know how to bake. I am also VERY impressed with their level of customer service. They will go way out of their way to meet with you, offer options and make sure that you are 100% satisfied before, during and after your wedding. Upbeat, friendly and talented! Now that's a recipe for success!  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-996-1428

RECEPTION FACILITIES  ( . . . and keep these facilities in mind for Rehearsal Dinners too!)

• Peppermill Resort Hotel & Casino - The Peppermill has raised the bar for all hotel/casino properties in Northern Nevada.  Since their multi-million dollar expansion, they are the leader in opulence, gaming, accommodations, conventions and yes . . . weddings!  The Peppermill is so massive, a tourist can come to their property - stay for a week, never leave the premises and still fully enjoy an unforgettable Northern Nevada experience.  It simply screams "class" on every level.  They offer a fully staffed full-time dedicated wedding department with two beautiful chapels, dozens of reception room choices, beautiful suites, an unbelievable spa and much more.   Ask for Margie McCaffrey.    Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-689-7325

• Hyatt Regency, Lake Tahoe - This is a beautiful hotel located on the shore of Lake Tahoe in Incline Village.  They have several ceremony and reception options for their customers.  I have been entertaining at this property for nearly 20 years.  They have offered a consistent level of service the entire time.  On-site facility managers Caity and Lauren are phenomenal.  I really enjoy the way they take care of their customers, as well as their values and attention-to-detail.  These are things that mean a great deal in the smooth execution of services for a wedding.  When you work with someone like that, you know they have your best interests at heart.   Contact details coming soon!

• The Grove at South Creek - In just a few short years, this facility has grown in popularity to become one of the best wedding venues in all of Reno. Master chef Shakka Moore is one of the most well-regarded chefs in our area. The facility is beautiful and green friendly. Large picturesque windows, fireplace, a huge outdoor wedding pagoda and the finest in facility technology have made The Grove a great place to have a wedding. Their on-site facility staff will give you a personal tour and cater to your every need. It is a wonderful venue that is a locals favorite.   Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-324-7683

• Three Ponds - This facility is probably the "best kept secret" in Reno. It is located just a few miles from downtown Reno, but you would never know it. It is secluded in the foothills of west Reno. This sprawling property offers several acres of incredible scenery. Of course, at the heart of the property are three beautiful ponds with many ducks and other wildlife. There are bridges, foliage, lots of trees, fountains, flower gardens, a guest house for the bridal party to use, a wedding arch, gazebo and so much more. Owners Karen and Jeff Williams (no relation to me) are wonderful friends I have known for more than 20 years. Their property is amazing and they only accept a small number of weddings each year. When you reserve this facility - you get it for three days. That means for your rehearsal, wedding day and even a morning after brunch if you like. Perfect to entertain out-of-town guests.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-324-6435

• Tannenbaum, An Alpine Events Center - This is the PERFECT facility for any wedding couple who wants to experience the cool serenity of the Lake Tahoe wedding experience without traveling up to Lake Tahoe to get it. Nestled in the tranquility of the Sierra's, Tannenbaum is located just half-way up the popular Mt. Rose Highway (that goes to Lake Tahoe). It is less than 15 minutes from south Reno. This venue can accommodate up to 250 guests indoors. There is a beautiful patio and grass area in the back with forest views - perfect for your wedding ceremony. They welcome outside caterers, event planners and you can even bring in your own alcohol without extra charges. The layout, including the parking, is convenient and accommodating. Ask for a tour. You're going to love this facility.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-849-7688

• Genoa Lakes Golf Resort - The Genoa Lakes Golf Resort and the neighboring Genoa Lakes Golf Club are easily the finest golf country clubs located south of Reno. These two facilities are absolutely beautiful for weddings and located in the Carson Valley. Both have spectacular views of Jobs Peak and the sierras. It is not uncommon to see deer and/or eagles (on occasion) during weddings when at these facilities. Both country clubs offer amazing food and their very attentive staffs will cater to your every need.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-782-6644 ext. 249

• David Walley's Hot Springs & Resort - I have been performing at David Walley's for more than 20 years.  Over the years, I have literally performed hundreds of events at this property.  It is beautiful and rustic with incredible views of the Sierras.  The south lawn of David Walley's offers the most breathtaking backdrop for your ceremony you could ever imagine.  Absolutely stunning.  Marie Stokes and her staff are very dedicated to customer service on every level.  This is the perfect property if you really want to experience the natural beauty of Genoa Nevada.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-309-4561

• Montreux Golf Club - The Golf Club at Montreux has been a popular wedding destination for couples here in Reno for many years. They have assembled a great staff of people who work very hard to accommodate wedding guests.  A big plus for this facility is the beautiful waterfall that is located within clear view of the dining area.  Guests love it!!!  You can see photographs of this waterfall (with my daughter modeling as a flower girl) on my Remarkable Weddings website.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-849-9911

• Arrowcreek Country Club - In the early 90's I performed the very first grand opening welcome party at the Arrowcreek Country Club.  I have been performing incredible weddings there ever since.  They have a huge level lawn that overlooks the entire city of Reno.  The view is unbelievable!  The lawn, clubhouse and patio area is very accommodating, spacious and perfect for weddings.  Danielle Tolleson is the facility manager and is very focused on her customers.  She and her staff are extremely qualified to assist you with everything for your wedding.     Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-850-4471 ext. 222

• Chateau @ Incline - I have been playing this facility since 1990.  Just a few years ago they constructed a brand new state-of-the-art facility.  It is absolutely beautiful with vaulted ceilings, fire places, large decking overlooking the golf course and Lake Tahoe.  The staff, surroundings, dining and opulence is exactly what you would expect from an upscale country club in Incline Village - Lake Tahoe.  In addition to this country club setting, the Chateau also handles Aspen Grove Park which is a beautiful park surrounded by pine trees and just steps away from the shoreline of Lake Tahoe.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-832-1353

• Heavenly Mountain Resort - It most certainly is a breathtaking spot to have a wedding.  Adriann and her staff have the logistics and timing of operating this mid-mountain resort (accessible only by tram) down to an art.  I love this facility because it truly feels like you have an entire mountain all to yourself.  At approximately 7500 feet above sea level, it's as close to heaven as your wedding day can get . . . literally!!!   Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  530-542-5153

• Sunnyside Resort - This is a beautiful restaurant overlooking the water in Tahoe City.  When you get married you are on a decking that is just a few feet from the water.  It is amazingly beautiful.  It is also very casual.  Your guests will fell like they are at a seashore cafe in Key West.  It just has a wonderful ambience about it.  Sunnyside is located near a large pier where boats are docked.  Everyone will enjoy watching the water recreation from this shoreline hot spot.  The staff at Sunnyside is very well trained and versed in wedding celebrations.  It is always a pleasure to entertain there.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  530-583-7200

• Valhalla Grand Hall - Operated by the Tahoe Tallac Association, the Valhalla Grand Hall is as rustic as it is historical. This magnificent hall is nearly a hundred years old and features a 20 foot tall stone fireplace that will create an unbelievable backdrop to your wedding ceremony. The hall has many doors and windows, a staircase, wrap around balcony and a lavish grass area for guests that lead right to the lake shore. Your Lake Tahoe photos will never look better.   Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  530-541-4975

PLANNERS - COORDINATORS - CONSULTANTS

• Felicia Events - I have seen dozens of wedding planners and coordinators come and go in my 20 + years of full-time service to the wedding industry. What I tend to look for in a vendor is consistency and outstanding customer service. Felicia has it and has demonstrated this for years. She is very good at putting together events that really take on the personality of the wedding couple. With her, personalization and detail are everything. I have worked with Felicia many times over the years. I have personally witnessed some major curve balls thrown her way (not all that uncommon to have unexpected things happen). Each time, she handled the unexpected with grace, class and polished professionalism. Isn't that the kind of qualifications you want to handle the most important day of your life?  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-783-1948

• Melody Holland - It is always nice to work with a planner and/or coordinator who understands the important role and contribution that each vendor plays in making a wedding day successful. Melody not only understands this, but encourages the talents of her vendors to shine through. In the pre-event planning stages she is great at making contact with vendors and accommodating any request we have. She's the quarterback. The go-to person to pull everything together, and she does it very well. At events, she is very pro-active in handling everything - down to the smallest detail. That's what great wedding coordinators do. It is always a pleasure to work with Melody. Avoid the self-made wedding coordinator. Hire Melody, then enjoy your day!  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-762-6400

MISCELLANEOUS WEDDING SERVICES

• Camelot Party Rentals - This rental supply company has been around forever. They are a fixture here in our community. This means they have a reputation that has stood the test of time. They can handle just about anything.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-355-9004

• Red Carpet Events & Design - It seems like every time I am doing a high end event that looks unbelievably opulent - it's Red Carpet Events at the helm. These people are brilliant at design and creation. That can take any room and make it look like something out of a magazine. Whether your needs are simply or you like to dream big - I am certain they can handle it.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-355-1501

• Just In Time Cleaning - Oh how I wish I knew of this company when I got married. Kathleen Wilcox (and her staff) are the ones who clean up the mess after your celebration is over. They do it all. You simply walk away and their cleaning crew comes in to return that facility or hall back to the way you found it. Talk about stress free. You won't have to worry about any detail. That's their job. It's affordable too!  Contact Information:  e-mail  775-560-1751

• Bev Saunders, WineShop at Home - Okay, I admit, I don't drink. But I do know of many clients who have used Bev's services. They all speak very highly of her and her ability to help you select and feature wines that will set your wedding apart. I don't have to drink, because I trust her and trust she will help you make perfect choices in wine that will make your wedding day perfect.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-450-4940

• The Stylish Scribe (custom invitations) - I have seen owner Jessica Nicely's work on many occasions. Beautiful invitations and stationary that helps add a customized feel to your wedding. If you are looking for that personal touch that is "original" and not of the common designs you see everywhere else, Jessica is your gal. She is really, really good at what she does.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-560-1981

• All About Honeymoons - With so many things to plan for your wedding, why worry about the honeymoon? If you have planned any sort of big vacation, you know there are all kinds of things that demand your attention. I have gotten to know owner Carolyn Vaught over the past couple of years and one thing I can say with certainty is that she lives and breaths the travel business. That's the type of person you want to handle all of the stressful things about planning a honeymoon. Count on her. You'll be glad you did.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-354-9243

• Gossip Salon Studios - It was the wedding of the year! That's how I felt when I did owner Chrysee Coburn's wedding. She has been a friend for years and I am so happy that she has taken her talents and opened up her own studio. She has dedicated herself to the salon business (working for a popular salon) for many years. She is now adding her creative touch to her own studio and it has been a HUGE success. She is located in the same building as Sparks Florist on Pyramid Highway. You want the best? Chrysee IS the best. Just stop by and ask to see her work. Then sit back and prepare to be pampered.  Contact Information:  Website  e-mail  775-358-5858

 

Important Information - Please Read

A note about referral lists in general:  Just because a vendor you might be considering is not on a referral list, you should not be alarmed.  Often times, there might be a very good reason for this.  The company in question may not, as of yet, worked up a rapport with that referring vendor, the list might be based upon geographic locale or it could even be a list that requires a fee to be included.  What sets this referral list apart from others is the manner in which it is personalized.  Be cautious of referral lists offered by people who insist upon using their vendors.  Additionally, never pay a facility a fee for using someone who is not on their referral list!  A recommendation is one thing . . . an insistence or fee request should always send up a red flag!