We’re sure that over the holidays you caught rumor that at least one (if not more) of your friends ended up betrothed. With Christmas the time for diamonds to fly freely and many a bride-to-be already thinking about planning that perfect day, The Art of Weddings comes at a good time.

The event is in its seventh year of providing local and hip Portland vendors to equally local and hip brides. With its 45 local and specialized wedding experts, attendees can roam through hand-selected vendors, live music, hors d’oeuvre, cakes and sweets, spirits, floral arrangements and a fashion show featuring Portland boutique and designer wedding dresses. Designers this year include: Cocoon Silk, Embellish Designs, Urchin Redesign, Charlotte’s Weddings and Duchess Clothier

Event founder (and wedding photographer) Alexis Turk, wanted to shake things up a bit this year and instituted a few changes. The showcase moved to the lovely Pure Space in the Pearl and for the first time added a VIP ticket for those wanting more exclusive one-on-one time with the vendors, plus pre-entry at 5pm, a special gift bag, signature cocktails and a reserved seat for the fashion show.

Also new this year, The Art of Weddings will feature, The Groom’s List Lounge with local vendors: My Bartender, MacTarnahan’s Taproom home of MacTarnahan’s Brewing Co and Pyramid Brewing Co, Thirst Bistro, PDX Cigars, Willamette Productions Outside the Box Photo Booth, Hair M, and Jacob Merlin Band.

But really, all that aside…. Did we mention you get to see pretty dresses? That’s enough reason to go right there.

The Art of Weddings
Pure Space (1315 NW Overton);
January 19, 2012.
Press and VIP doors at 5pm.
General from 6 to 9:30 PM.

Tickets: Limited availability (50) VIP: $50
Must reserve online.
General: $15.00 online per person and $20 at the door.
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