Latin Beats

Our choreographer for the first dance recently listened to our track and has suggesting we take lessons in various Latin rhythms. We are going to start with salsa and work our way through rumba, cha cha, and whatever else we can find. We'll start individual sessions next summer. I really hope we can get good enough to try some lifts.

In other news, I am still procrastinating on the save the date cards. I hope to have them finished this week, so we can get them in the mail.

Not much more to report. Most decisions have been made. Now it's mostly about fundraising.

Scrimping and Saving

Well I think most of the major decisions have been made. We will be putting a deposit down on the venue this week, costumes are in the works, and the date is set. All that is left now is to somehow find a way to pay for it all. We should probably sit down and make a realistic budget so that we can design a savings plan. I figure if we put away a little money every paycheck, by next year we should be able to afford this thing.

Ultimately, the important thing is that Sarah and I promise to stand by another regardless of what life brings. We've already done that in our hearts, and all we really have to do to make it official is find a notary and sign some papers. Still, I'd really like the wedding to be a memorable event. I think our love deserves that.

Location Location Location

Ever since we have started looking for wedding venues the same location is recommended over and over. When I tell Portland locals that I am looking for an extremely industrial space with high ceilings, like an abandoned warehouse, they invariably mention the Portland Company Complex. Originally constructed in 1846 as a locomotive foundry, it sits at the heart of Portland's Old Port area, and does in fact look like something right out of a comic book.

They are very open to off-the-wall events. Although I think they stopped renting space for raves, they still host art exhibits and local performances. Last year, local Harry Potter enthusiasts celebrated Rowling's final book by bringing to life their own Diagon Alley at the Portland Company Complex. The Complex is also currently home to a narrow gauge railroad museum, which the Mugglefest turned into a Hogwart's Express, but which affords me the chance to be more powerful than a locomotive.

Not only is the space exactly what I am looking for, but it is far cheaper than over event spaces in the area. Plus, it has myriad opportunity for superhero photo spreads, including beach access for Aquaman. We haven't put down a deposit yet, but we are pretty sure this is the place. I am going to meet with someone on Monday to finalize negotiations. Then I can take measurements to begin designing the set and lighting for the show.

Directions to the Portland Company.

Back to FAQ list.

Finalizing the Line-Up

I had a couple of good conversations with Corey at Action Actors concerning the costumes this week. Of all the costume designers I have found online, their work is by far the most impressive. The officially licensed costumes are designed for the average Halloween party and look terrible. Occasionally, you will come across a sprecial edition Batman, but that one costs almost $1000. Many people suggest talented local designers, but none of them are adept and working with copious amounts of Lycraspandex. Here are some examples of Corey's work.

We are close to finalizing the cast of characters, although a few adjustments need to be made for financial reasons. One of our original choices was Hawkgirl, and her wings make her cost prohibitive. But everyone else we chose is going to fall within the price range we had set, so the next thing is to get measurements from our wedding party.

Decisions, Decisions

So far, we're making some good headway on this crazy scheme. There have been promising contacts on the costume front, although no mention of cost has been made. Vendors want to know what my budget is, and I don't know what my budget will be until I know approximate costs from vendors. Oh, how Joseph Heller was right. Still, I'm happy with our discoveries so far. We have selected vendors for photography, videography, invitations, cake, and a travel agent for the honeymoon. Still to come- caterer, DJ, sound and light rental, and special effects consulting.

The biggest hole right now lies in the venue. I am looking for a highly industrial interior space with a lot of height, so that characters can enter via zipline, bungee cord, invisible jet, etc. There are a lot of waterfront properties here in Portland that might work, but I don't know how to contact the owners or even if they would rent their spaces. I may need to work with an event planner on that detail alone. And I'd better lock that in soon. All other decisions regarding budget and dates will cascade from that one.

Plotting and Planning

I feel sorry for the average groom. Traditional paradigms dictate that they sit back and watch as their bride and mother-in-law make decisions on their behalf. They are instructed where and when to show up in their tux, and they just obey. What kind of a commentary is that on the future of the marriage?

I am having so much fun with this wedding. I am online every chance I get, searching for invitations, design ideas for cakes and costumes, and every other detail you could think of. Sarah sees how excited I am and thinks it's great. On the one hand, I know I'm lucky to have her, but on the other hand, I wonder how any groom could settle for someone who would want to lead him around by the nose.