FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We have tried to make this site logical and easy to navigate.
You will find the favorite wedding locations in Santa Barbara are listed under "WEDDING LOCATIONS" (and no, we are NOT limited to just these locations) along with lots of wedding photos that Rev. Gail has taken at that location.
We
have published this web site with information that will be
helpful to you and are happy to answer your questions concerning Wedding
etiquette and costs.
Everyone's needs differ, so please call us and we can talk more about
what you are looking for.
We can NOT accept checks on the day of your wedding AND are unable to take credit cards outside of the office.
We require that ALL of our couples read this FAQ section
AND the MARRIAGE LICENSE page
so that there are no surprises and to keep your wedding day stress free.
Please click on Expand All, then print to keep this page.
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Click on the QUESTION below to see the answer
IMPORTANT QUESTIONS ARE IN CAPITALS
Who is I do Vows?
I do Vows performs wedding services 7 days a week, all year round. We do not sub-contract out to vendors except for entertainment, setup, Transportation and Catering.
Can we E-mail our request for reservations?
Yes, however, a phone conversation might be necessary at some point as there are many questions we will be asking you. If you live out of the USA you may send an e-mail with your phone number to: Weddings@IdoVows.org so that we may call you to reserve your date & time.
Does it matter how far in advance we reserve
our time?
Not always, however....appointments
on weekends fill up fast (especially during
summertime).
If you have a date and time you prefer, we advise that you call and get
it on our books
as soon as possible.
If choosing a Saturday sunset -
we recommend putting a deposit down as soon as you have decided (to hold your date).
What if we want to get married today or tomorrow?
Call
us.....We can probably fit you in!
Is a deposit required to reserve our time?
Yes....we require $200.00 or 40% deposit (whichever
is more)
to book your wedding.
We can NOT reserve a date without a deposit (if mailing, we will hold your date for
5 days).
Credit card charges over $1500.00 are subject to 2% service charge.
All deposits/payments are NON-REFUNDABLE
What is the coordinating fee for?
For co-ordinating everything....of course!
We try to keep our prices down, yet still offer excellent service.
WHAT IF WE WISH TO PAY VIA MASTERCARD OR VISA?
No problem!
I'll email you PayPal payment button.
All deposits/payments are NON-REFUNDABLE
Do you offer premairital counseling?
No...however, here is a Premarital Questionaire from NAWM
(National Association of Wedding Ministers).
What if it rains or we need to post-phone our wedding?
We are now offering a WINTER special. This is an indoor wedding across from the beach.
However, if you want your wedding outdoors and you’re concerned about the weather, you may either order a canopy from a party rental company to cover your event and/or consider wedding and travel insurance. Weddings and honeymoons take months of planning. And just when you think you've attended to the last of the details, something unforeseen happens. Wedding insurance can provide coverage for many wedding-day mishaps including wedding rings or gown mixups, foul weather, military deployment and health issues affecting key participants.
We have listed a few Wedding Insurance companies on our "LOCAL SERVICES" page.
Of course, we suggest you check out the company with the Better Business Bureau first.
I do Vows policy is as follows:
If you post-phone your wedding more than 2 weeks (wedding & reception more than 2 months)
in advance, then we will honor the deposit towards your new wedding date
(subject to availability & must be within 3 months of original wedding date).
HOWEVER...we can not guarantee the price. If our prices have increased since you booked your wedding, then your balance will be adusted to the new price.
WE WILL ONLY DO THIS ONE TIME!
All deposits/payments are NON-REFUNDABLE
HOW AND WHEN DO WE PAY THE BALANCE?
Here are the options:
A wedding only package (with no setup)...the balance is to due in cash or
cashiers check (made out to "Rev. Gail Heimbach") on the day of your
wedding.
A wedding only package (with setup)...the balance is to due in
cashiers check (made out to "I do Vows") 2 weeks prior to your
wedding.
A wedding AND reception package, we will split the remaining balance into 2
payments for you.
If
you choose to use PayPal, you may, however this must be done at
least 10 days before
your wedding date. Credit card charges over $1500.00 are subject to 2% service charge.
We can NOT accept checks on the day of your wedding.
Can we book our wedding more than a year in advance?
YES...for a setup package! A portion of the non-refundable deposit ($300.00) is required
to reserve your
date for our setup packages. Your balance will then be
split up into 2 payments as
follows:
1. The balance of the 40% deposit is due 1 year before your wedding
(this is non-refundable)
2. The balance will be due in cashier's check 2 weeks prior to your
wedding.
FOR A WEDDING AND RECEPTION:
A portion of the non-refundable deposit (amount to be determined depending on package price) is
required to reserve your date.
The balance of the 40% deposit is due 1 year before your wedding
(this is non-refundable).
The rest of your balance will be split into 2 or 3 payments.
Of course, you will have an invoice detailing the arranged services.
Remember, all deposits/payments are NON-REFUNDABLE
How much time are we allowed?
Since that depends on which package you have
chosen, ask
us at the time you make your
reservations.
Your package price includes
the appropriate time for us to serve you, ceremony,
photography, video & paper work,
coordinating and guest arrival.
Are Chairs provided for all packages?
Only the setup packages include chairs (you can always add chairs and a permit to one of the non-
setup
package). We do not recommend having a chair for each guest as many do not “sit” in the
chairs provided.
If you’re
expecting 50 guests, we recommend 20 - 30 chairs for immediate family, the
elderly or guests with
health problems.
We own 50 of our own chairs.
If you want more than 50, then we can rent from an outside source at $10.00 per chair (minimun 20 chairs).
DO WE NEED A PERMIT FOR THE NON-SETUP PACKAGES?
No....not until you add chairs, arch OR canopy ala carte OR if you have a LARGE group of guests.
Are these private locations?
No. I'm sure private locations are available, but not at these prices.
Do WE have to get a permit for these public locations?
If you have a setup (like
the KISS, Santa Rosa Isle or Castaways..etc), OR have a large group of people,
then
the City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Dept requires a permit.
The
setup packages listed do include the cost of the required permit.
You do NOT need to worry about getting the permit as we take care
of that for you and is included in the price of the setup packages.
If
special reservations are needed for certain areas you will be told before
booking.
HOW DO WE GET OUR CONFIDENTIAL MARRIAGE LICENSE APPLICATION?
We have tried to make this very easy for you:
Go to the Marriage License page and read the highlighted information regarding the Confidential Marriage License.
Next, download the Confidential Marriage License Application (there are instructions, please follow them).
You may either mail, email or fax the application to Rev.Gail. Please send it ASAP!
Then, on your wedding day, bring your drivers licenses. If your drivers licenses do not have the SAME ADDRESS on them, then you will need to bring verifiable proof that you reside together (ie, bills, lease, correspondence...etc).
Rev.Gail will issue your confidential marriage license to you on your wedding day.
Can you issue a regular Marriage License?
No, ONLY the County Recorders Office can
issue a regular Marriage License.
Please refer to the License page for more information.
DO YOU GIVE US AN OFFICIAL COPY OF OUR MARRIAGE LICENSE?
No....the steps to obtaining a certified copy of your marriage license are explained in detail on the MARRIAGE LICENSE page.
What exactly is the custom ceremony guide and how do I view it?
I have designed a Ceremony Selection Guide to
help make your wedding day unique and extra special.
The wedding ceremony has been broken down into sections. There are several selections to choose from in each section. You may make ANY changes or additions that you wish.
There are complete instructions and it's wonderfully easy to use.
If you wish to add the Guide to your invoice, the URL will be sent to you (via email) after your deposit has been received.
What kind of music is on the CD?
Here is a list of the song titles and artists on the music CD.
Do you have any extra tips for the bride & groom?
YES! We have a "Wedding Etiquette Blog". I am always adding new tips....check it out!
Can we throw rice?
NO! Throwing rice is not allowed at our parks and beaches. It harms the wildlife.
Because of this, we encourage your guests to use bubbles (AND....it looks great on photos & video).
Can we hire someone else to take pictures?
Yes, of course! If you hire other vendors you must inform
us about this as we have a time schedule and
they must be advised as to
our position and agreement with you.
When bringing your own Professional Photographer, we do have requirements for during the Ceremony and formal photo shoot.
Be sure and tell us before hand so there
are NO problems on your Wedding day.
We reserve the right to photo and/or video all of "I do Vows" services for promotional purposes.
Can we use our own Minister to Officiate?
Yes, however we can not guarantee the quality and content of your video.
If you hire other vendors you must inform
us about this as we have a time schedule and
they must be advised as to
our position and agreement with you. Be sure and tell us before hand so there
are NO problems on your Wedding day.
We reserve the right to photo and/or video all of "I do Vows" services for promotional purposes.
Does the package price change if we have our own minister or photographer...etc?
No, as our packages have been discounted! If you wish to start removing or changing services, then Ala Carte would be the way to go and you would be charged full prices and Coordinator fees.
There are some exceptions for the Reception packages.
Please note that our stand up packages are discounted AND we do not charge a Coordinator fee for them. Also, the Coordinator fee has been discounted for the "Wedding only" setups.
HOW DO WE REACH YOU ON OUR WEDDING DAY?
My cell phone number will be on your invoice.
This number is only to be used on your wedding day.
What time do we arrive for our wedding (for example, at 4:00pm)?
Your time is 4:00pm (not 4:10)! If we are issuing your marriage license, then please arrive 20 minutes early...otherwise, 10 minutes
before your time is good. Tell your
guests that the ceremony will begin on time. PLEASE allow for traffic
and distance
of your
drive and the time of day, which makes a big difference in traffic.
We are now charging late fees of $60.00 per 1/2 hour or any portion there
of.
What if we want more Time or we are Late?
Late?!!! Please
see previous answer. We are there to serve each and every Bride & Groom
in
a relaxed environment. If
you feel you need more time or you are late, there is an extra charge.
Remember, sometimes we
have several weddings in a day and
times are set according to the
packages and locations for the day.
WHAT IF WE FORGET OUR DRIVERS LICENSES?
If we are issuing your license, then please
see previous answer as I will consider you Late. I have had many brides leave their purse
(with ID) in their hotel room. So Brides, please give your drivers license to your groom.
GROOMS, PLEASE DON'T FORGET TO BRING THE DRIVERS LICENSES :o)
WE CAN NOT ISSUE THE MARRIAGE LICENSE NOR CAN I START THE WEDDING CEREMONY
WITHOUT THEM
!
Should we have flowers for our parents?
Yes, if your budget allows it.
CAN WE BRING OUR OWN ROSE PETALS?
No. The price of our rose petals includes cleanup. If you bring petals and they are not picked up, then we get fined by Parks & Rec. This is not fair to us, so please do not bring petals.
Can we include our children in the Sand Ceremony?
Yes, please make sure to let us know ahead of time.
We have found that including the children is a sand ceremony is the most poplular option.
If you choose to give a token, customary ones are watches, necklaces or
ID bracelets.
Does it cost extra to include our children in the Sand Ceremony?
Yes, a small fee of $8.00 for each childs colored sand.
What if we have an elderly or sun sensitive person?
We offer beautiufl parasols for our outdoor weddings.
Is a Tip necessary?
While a tip is always appreciated ..... it
is not necessary.
The exception is our Wedding & Reception Packages in which
20 % gratuity and 8.75 % tax is added to the total.
Are there facilities for us to get dressed?
There
are no dressing rooms as all of the locations we use are public (except for the Sanctuary).
There are public rest rooms (I'm not sure that this is what you want).
If staying at a local hotel, we recommend you check-in before your wedding.
Be sure to give yourself plenty of time for dressing without rushing.
WHAT DO WE NEED TO BRING ON OUR WEDDING DAY?
If you have not already sent us your Marriage
License application,
then you MUST bring it with you (completely filled out).
We will also need a valid State photo ID.(drivers license, military
ID or passport).
BRIDES & GROOMS, DO NOT FORGET YOUR DRIVERS LICENSES!!!
Also, if you have not already paid your balance, then you must bring CASH.
Do you perform commitment ceremonies for domestic partnerships?
Yes...Of Course!
We realize and understand that there are many couples
who wish to commit themselves to their
partner.
This event is symbolic
and very meaningful for them and their families. Please refer to our California Domestic Partnership page.
Do you perform same-sex marriages?
We did until prop 8 passes. Hopefully we will be able to do so again. In the meanwhile, we do offer a Commitment Ceremony (make it a part of your Domestic Partnership agreement).
When do we get our pictures?
Our couples get their high resolution photos on a data DVD.
The DVD is the equivalent of owning the "digital negatives" of your photos, and allows you to make
prints and enlargements either at home or at a professional photo lab, as well as the ability to send
your photos to friends and family by email.
We also give you a photo gallery ready to put up on your own website!
To those also getting video, the photos and video will be sent out together.
We reserve the right to photo and/or video all of "I do Vows" services for promotional purposes.
When do we get our video?
You should receive your edited video
on DVD within 4-8 weeks (in case of if an emergency, we will notify you if we can not meet this time frame).
Do you have your own website that you would like to put your video on?
You may request a copy of your video as Windows Media Player or Quicktime.
We reserve the right to photo and/or video all of "I do Vows" services for promotional purposes.
WHAT DO WE GET WITH THE PERSONAL WEDDING WEBSITE?
Starting no more than 2 months before your wedding:
1. A welcome page inviting your guests to the wedding/reception
(date, time, location...etc)
Photo will be included in background if you supply it
2. A directions page
There will be a map with directions to your wedding location
3. An information page
This page will have info such as: when to RSVP by
registry info (if you have one)
logding recommendations
Santa Barbara's current weather
a link to check your airline flight
a countdown to your wedding date
There will also be a reminder as to your wedding date, what time to arrive & start time
4. An RSVP link to your email address
Your guests can RSVP via email....how easy is that?
For 2 months after your wedding:
1. A photo gallery with all of the photos that "I do Vows" took of your wedding day.
Wilth a link to your email address
We have added a link to a sample photo gallery
$25 & up - Per additional page added:
You may purchase additional pages:
You would need to supply the info, text & materials
$10 - Per additional month added:
Start WEDPAGES more than 2 months in advance of your wedding OR have photo gallery up more than 2 months after your wedding
Can we Just Show Up to get married?
NO! We work by Appointment Only.
However, we usually can work out a time within a couple of hours or the
next day.
Santa Barbara has become a major wedding and event destination....so,
if you have a larger wedding, try to
book
early.
Why would we use "I do Vows" rather than someone else?
Our goal is to give you quality service and product at a reasonable price (pleasant customer service included). We urge you to check
out the other companies but PLEASE make sure you get to see the work they promise... such as
the quality of their bouquets and boutonnieres AND check their photos & videos! You can also view TESTIMONIALS from our couples.
Do you have your own church?
No.....but there are some available churches in Santa Barbara!
What location do you use for the Hukilau ?
We use the Leadbetter Beach picnic area.
Can we have more than 50 guests for the Hukilau?
Yes....additional food for guests would be reflected in the price.
Please keep in mind that this location has picnic tables and
benches that only seats a maximum
of 70 people.
May we choose a different location for our Hukilau?
Not at this price...this is the ONLY beach location that
has picnic tables for
50 - 70 people.
Are the outdoor reception packages available all year ?
Other than holiday weekends, yes...but if it is a wintertime event, we highly recommend that you arrange for the event to be tented.
Can we choose a different location for your reception packages?
Not at these prices. You may have your reception
elsewhere, but not at the same cost.
Can we have more or less people for the reception packages?
Yes....within reason (facility capacity & their minimum requirements) and of course,
that change would be reflected in the price.
It will be just the two of us. Can we put together our own package?
YES....OF COURSE!
Look at what one couple choose for their dream elopement:
Officiant
License
Photos on DVD
Video on DVD (editing included)
Rose petals (3 bags)
Bridal Bouquet
1 Boutonniere
Arch w/silk gardenia garland
Permit
Harpist & Flutist
Sm. Wedding cake
Champagne & flutes
Are there any hidden or extra Charges?
A. NO! Not for the locations listed on this website (unless otherwise noted).
We do charge the required California state sales tax of 8.75%.
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INSTRUCTIONS TO PRINT THE QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Click on "Expand All" above, highlight and copy all of the questionst,
open your Word program and paste, then print.
We enjoy adding new services and strive to be your "ONE STOP SHOP"
...literally! Here are some services we hope will make your wedding day....stress free:
CREDIT CARDS - Great offers to fit your interests and needs!
PAYPAL - We now accept PayPal as well as Visa and Mastercard!
LOCAL SERVICES - Everything you & your guests will need while in Santa Barbara
PERSONAL WEBSITE - Bride & Groom's personal website:
Welcome page - An invitation to your guests for the wedding
Info page - Date to RSVP by, gift registry, lodging recommendations,
Santa Barbara's current weather, a link to check your airline flight,
A remider of wedding date & time, when to arrive....ect.
AND....A countdown to your wedding date!
Directions page - With a map & directions to the wedding location
RSVP - Your guests can RSVP via email directly to the bride & groom
Photo Gallery - enjoy your wedding photos online!
WEDDING ATTIRE - the perfect beach wedding related attire & more...check it out!
Please enjoy these services!
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