York Town News
After the fire: Businesses joining together to make 5th Annual Wedding and Party Expo a hit this weekend
By Jennifer L. Saunders
The Fifth Annual Wedding and Party Expo will be held this Sunday at the York Harbor Inn and Foster's Downeast Clambake, with free limousine rides between the two showcase destinations. Pictured are just a few of the many offerings from years past, including wedding fashions, the decadent desserts of York's own ConfectionArt and a beautiful bouquet by Brenda's Bloomers in Cape Neddick.
Courtesy photos
And in the days that have followed the Feb. 3 electrical fire that temporarily closed York Harbor's Stage Neck Inn, Eisner said that is true now more than ever. Chamber members came together to find a new home for the exposition when Mark Foster, owner of the Stage Neck Inn, learned he would not be able to reopen in time to house the event as planned.
Enter Kevin Tacy of the nearby Foster's Downeast Clambake on Axholme Road. Although he had closed for the winter hiatus, Eisner said, Tacy came forward to help by serving as the second setting for the expo this year, with parking on site and limousine rides, as had been previously planned, to transport expo guests between Foster's Downeast Clambake and the York Harbor Inn. Originally, the Stage Neck Inn and York Harbor Inn would have served as the two sites, with vendors displaying everything from wedding apparel to flowers, invitations, cakes and photography services.
"Our member businesses are there to pick up the pieces when something happens to another member," Eisner said last week. "We are so grateful for people who are always willing to help."
And, the Stage Neck Inn is still a big part of the fun, even though repairs to the service area where the fire occurred and to the inn's roof have made it impossible to host the event itself this year. Eisner announced Friday that the grand prize at this year's raffle is a two-night stay at the Stage Neck Inn or a three-night stay at the Oualie Beach Resort in the Caribbean.
If you're planning your big day - or any special day - Eisner promises the expo is where you'll want to be this Sunday, Feb. 18, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
As she put it, "With over 50 spectacular wedding and specialty suppliers participating, this event is a must for the bride-to-be or anyone planning a special Seacoast event. … We offer something for everyone."
And what can you expect at this weekend's special event? Well, half the fun - at least - will be getting there. As Eisner put it, a clear favorite part of this annual event is the chance to travel in style between the two host locations in limousines provided by Rivers Limousine and Regal Limousine.
The expo will include classic wedding music provided by Aprylle & Reed, Flute and Guitar, Cuzin Richard Entertainment and pianist Carl Reppucci. You can view images from The Wedding Photographer, Riley Photographic, Patrick McNamara, Mac Photography, Life's Big Events, George Barker Photography, Christine Nimetz Photography and Bill Christo Photography. And what would the Wedding and Party Expo be without the latest in formalwear? Eisner noted that models wearing fashions from such favorites as Fabulous Formals will be strolling among the crowd at the York Harbor Inn. There will be food to sample, trolley charters, chocolate fountains, skin care options, party favor ideas and more.
And while this year's event will be hosted at York Harbor Inn and Foster's, there's a chance to check out what is offered by an array of other area inns and restaurants with representatives on hand at the expo from such venues Cap'n Simeon's Galley Restaurant, Clay Hill Farm, Coastal House, Dockside Restaurant, Inn at Long Sands, Meadowmere, Pink Blossoms Resort, Red Barn at Outlook Farm and the Union Bluff.
In addition to the grand prizes, this year's raffle also includes chances to win a free tuxedo rental from Mr. Tux, jewelry from Crystal Creations by Judie and a gift basket that includes a bottle of wine and Godiva Chocolate from Falcon Travel.
Admission to the Wedding and Party Expo is $5 at the door, or you can pre-register at www.gatewaytomaine.org and receive a coupon for $2 off coupon.
In addition to showcasing what local businesses have to offer for local residents, Eisner said, "Our goal is to draw people to the area. … People come up knowing they're going to plan their wedding in the area."
Want to learn more? Visit www.gatewaytomaine.org or call 363-4422.
