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COUPLES COMPETE TO TURN WEDDING DISASTER INTO WEDDED BLISS
WeddingWire and KTLA present "I Do Redo" in Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES, CA - June 16, 2009 - WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, is pleased to announce the four final couples in their "I Do Redo" contest currently running with KTLA in Los Angeles. Together with their team of wedding professionals, WeddingWire will be giving away a $60,000 second chance wedding to one very lucky couple. The only catch: the couple has one week to plan everything beginning to end.
"We're excited to be working with WeddingWire on this program," says John Moczulski, VP of Operations for KTLA. "They're the cutting edge of wedding planning and resources. They add consumer value and exceptional convenience for people who are planning their wedding. We believe that this program will resonate with our viewers on both KTLA 5 as well as on KTLA.com."
WeddingWire and KTLA asked Los Angeles-area married couples to share their wedding day disaster stories in order to win the wedding redo of their dreams. The finalists have been chosen, and now it is up to the KTLA viewers to help plan this wedding by casting their vote at www.ktla.com/wedding. The TV audience will play an active role in this contest as they vote, not only to select the winning couple, but also to choose the wedding dress, reception menu, floral decorations, and honeymoon destination.
Meet the finalists:
Jayanne and Perry Hampton were married six months ago, but would like the chance to do it all over again. Between a fire at their house the day of the wedding and gift money being stolen from their reception, they could use a second chance.
Toi and Greg Moore just celebrated twenty-five years together and could think of nothing better to commemorate the day than a wedding redo. In 1984, a last minute change in ceremony venue left the couple and their guests in an undesirable neighborhood with criminal behavior occurring right outside the church doors.
Michelle and Nick Barnes had to deal with Mother Nature on their wedding day. A monsoon could not keep the couple from getting married that day, but Michelle and Nick would like a chance to do it again, the right way.
As a military couple, Dianna and Jose SantaMaria have accepted the idea of deployments; however, they were not prepared when Jose received word that his next deployment was scheduled on the same day as their wedding. The result was far from the extravagant wedding they had planned. Jose entered the contest to give his bride the wedding of her dreams.
"As a bride, this is your worst nightmare - something going terribly wrong at your wedding," says Megan Hermeling, Manager of Community Development for WeddingWire. "Just think of how many times the bride and groom have replayed that moment in their minds. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to give the winning couple a second chance at their perfect wedding!"
The happy couple will say "I Do" on Friday, June 26th at The Ebell of Los Angeles during the 9:00 a.m. hour of the KTLA Morning News. With its rich history, beautiful grounds, exceptional cuisine and first class service, The Ebell is an ideal location for both the traditional and unconventional event. The contest winners will invite one hundred of their closest friends and family, as well as the TV viewing audience, to a romantic ceremony in The Ebell's garden, followed by a full reception in their dining room.
With the help of Los Angeles-based bridal consultant, Jeannie Ward of Wedding Jeannie, WeddingWire has compiled a very talented and generous group of wedding professionals to provide the couple with anything and everything they would need to make this day possible. Local vendors from the Los Angeles area have agreed to participate, offering their services ranging from a wedding dress and a wedding cake to the entertainment and catering.
The "I Do Redo" timeline is as follows:
June 12th - 18th: Voting period
June 19th: Winner announced
June 22nd - 26th: Wedding Week
June 26th - Wedding Day at The Ebell of Los Angeles
For more information about I Do Redo in Los Angeles, including contest rules, please visit www.ktla.com/wedding.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools at www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Sonny Ganguly
WeddingWire, Inc. press@weddingwire.com
301.231.9473
WeddingWire lets couples share their wedding on Facebook®
Leading wedding site launches personal wedding blogs on social network
BETHESDA, MD - April 30, 2009 - WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, today announced the launch of WeddingWire for Facebook, an application that lets engaged couples create a personal wedding blog within Facebook. WeddingWire for Facebook is available immediately in the Application directory at www.facebook.com.
From the engagement to the honeymoon, the application allows couples to easily share their wedding with all their friends, family and loved ones on the nation's leading social networking site. WeddingWire for Facebook features twelve different blog categories that guide the couple through their entire wedding story. Brides and grooms-to-be can share their engagement story, introduce their wedding party, decide on the perfect wedding location, and choose where to honeymoon. Each blog post can be customized to include various styles, formats, and images.
"WeddingWire has made it simple to keep everyone up to date on wedding details within Facebook," said Timothy Chi, Chief Executive Officer at WeddingWire. "We set out not to recreate the entire WeddingWire experience within Facebook, but rather provide engaged couples with a unique tool that leverages the power of the Facebook community." WeddingWire for Facebook complements the full suite of tools that are available at www.WeddingWire.com, which include free wedding websites, checklists, seating charts and more.
Personal wedding blogs have grown in popularity in recent years, as brides and grooms-to-be share their joys and frustrations of the wedding planning process online. However, it can sometimes be challenging for these personal blogs to gain an initial audience. WeddingWire for Facebook provides an instant following for bloggers by taking advantage of the Facebook community, and allows their friends and family to post comments to help make all the difficult decisions.
WeddingWire for Facebook also provides access to over 100,000 local wedding vendors within the application. Engaged couples can easily search for wedding professionals, from florists to photographers, to help them plan their dream wedding. WeddingWire for Facebook provides access to vendors across the entire US, and includes detailed reviews of their services from past clients.
To download WeddingWire for Facebook, search for 'Wedding' in the Facebook Application directory.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools at www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Sonny Ganguly
WeddingWire, Inc. press@weddingwire.com
301.231.9473
WIN A FREE $40,000 WINE COUNTRY WEDDING
WeddingWire presents "My Wedding in a Week" in San Francisco
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - March 11, 2009 - WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, announced the launch of "My Wedding in a Week" along with STAR 101.3 FM in San Francisco. Together with their team of wedding professionals, WeddingWire will be giving away a $40,000 wine country wedding to one very lucky couple. The only catch: the couple has one week to plan everything beginning to end.
Beginning the week of March 2nd, San Francisco-area engaged couples have the opportunity to register to win the wedding of their dreams at Viansa Italian Village & Winery in beautiful Sonoma, California. Once selected by STAR listeners on March 27th, the winning couple only has seven days to plan and execute their dream. The radio audience can help by voting online at www.star1013fm.com to select the wedding cake, wedding dress, reception menu, and floral decorations during the week of March 30th.
"It's amazing what lengths engaged couples will go to in order to plan their wedding, and this contest is the perfect example," says Megan Hermeling, Manager of Community Development for WeddingWire. "However, with the current state of the economy, many couples' wedding plans have been downsized or even canceled, out of necessity. WeddingWire is thrilled to be in a position to give a deserving couple this incredible gift. There is nothing more beautiful than a wine country wedding!"
The happy couple will say "I Do" on Friday, April 3rd at Viansa Italian Village & Winery. Showcasing romantic Tuscan architecture with unparalleled panoramic views, Viansa sits majestically on a vine-covered hilltop at the gateway to the Sonoma Valley. The contest winners will invite one hundred of their closest friends and family to an intimate ceremony in the wine cellar, followed by a full reception in their tented pavilion.
WeddingWire has compiled a very talented and generous group of wedding professionals to provide the couple with anything and everything they would need to make this day possible. Local vendors from the Bay Area have agreed to participate, offering their services ranging from a wedding dress and a wedding cake to the entertainment and catering.
The "My Wedding in a Week" timeline is as follows:
March 2nd - 19th - Contest Registration
March 20th - Finalists are chosen
March 20th - 26th - Voting period
March 27th - Winners announced
March 27th - April 3rd - Wedding Week
April 3rd - Wedding Day at Viansa Italian Village & Winery
For more information about My Wedding in a Week in San Francisco, including contest rules and entry, please visit www.star1013fm.com.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Sonny Ganguly
WeddingWire, Inc. press@weddingwire.com
301.231.9473
WEDDINGWIRE APPOINTS NEW BOARD MEMBER
Liddy Manson joins WeddingWire Board of Directors
BETHESDA, MD - February 27, 2009 - WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, today announced the appointment of Liddy Manson to its Board of Directors. Ms. Manson currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Digital Sports Network, an online community media company focused on high school and youth sports.
"We are thrilled to have Liddy join the WeddingWire Board of Directors. We are confident that her vast experience in both new media and local sales will help continue the current growth we are experiencing at WeddingWire," said Timothy Chi, CEO of WeddingWire Inc.
Prior to Digital Sports, Manson was Chief Operating Officer of Freewebs, where she managed the business operations of the company, including sales, marketing, programming, and human resources. Before joining Freewebs she was a Vice President and General Manager at Washington Post/Newsweek Interactive. Ms. Manson is a seasoned Internet and new-media executive who has held senior positions in interactive media for over 15 years. During her 9 years at WPNI, she held many senior roles including Vice President of Strategy and Business Development, and Vice President of Advertising and Marketing, responsible for Washingtonpost.com's and Newsweek.com's revenue and audience growth initiatives. Prior to WPNI, she was Vice President of Special Projects for Discovery Channel Multimedia. Ms. Manson earned an MBA and Certificate in Public Management from Stanford University and received a BA in Music from Yale University.
Of the appointment, Manson says, "It is an honor to join this Board of Directors. I strongly believe in WeddingWire's foundation and hope to bring a balanced perspective to the group through my previous business operations and experience. I think we all look forward to assisting in this company's strategic growth and to the promising future of WeddingWire."
The addition of Liddy Manson increases the number of board members to five. In addition to Ms. Manson, the members of WeddingWire's Board include Tim Chi, CEO of WeddingWire; Lee Wang, COO of WeddingWire; Wenda Harris Millard, Co-CEO and President of Media for Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia; and Michael Plonski, CIO for Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Sonny Ganguly
WeddingWire, Inc. press@weddingwire.com
301.231.9473
INNOVATIVE BRIDAL SHOW ARRIVES IN HOUSTON
Plan a wedding in one day at the Houston Wedding Showcase
HOUSTON, TX - February 25, 2009 - The Wedding Showcase, a partnership representing bridal show producers with a combined 25 years of experience, will debut the Houston Wedding Showcase on February 28th, sponsored by WeddingWire.com. Brides-to-be will be on a mission to find the wedding professionals best suited for their wedding day at Houston's newest bridal event.
With spectacular runway fashion shows and aisle after aisle of exhibits from the area's most trusted wedding professionals, couples will find everything they need to make their wedding day extraordinary without the hassle of driving from place to place. The event producers have handpicked the best and highest quality services in the Houston/Harris County area to appear at the show, and have integrated the best ideas from bridal shows around the country to bring unique features to the event that have not been seen in Houston before.
"Our goal has always been to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to weddings and celebrations," says Marc McIntosh, one of the country's top bridal show experts and a Co-Producer of the Houston Wedding Showcase. "We take a fresh approach to every aspect of wedding planning based on the needs of today's couples by adding new categories and laying out the show in ways that challenge a more traditional approach."
McIntosh also participates in economic impact and trend studies in relation to the bridal industry, and frequently does presentations to industry groups about the impact of the current recession and where the industry is going. He is available to talk to the Houston media this week to address these trends and provide outlines of the most current research with regard to spending patterns, and the role of the internet in revolutionizing wedding planning.
"Our partnership with WeddingWire is one of the innovations we bring to this show and numerous other bridal shows across the country," says McIntosh. "WeddingWire is truly the best online resource available to brides today."
WeddingWire is proud to be a sponsor of this fresh and innovative bridal show in one of the country's largest bridal markets. As the nation's leading wedding technology company, WeddingWire was developed to offer engaged couples the opportunity to stay organized and in control of their wedding planning. The partnership with the Houston Wedding Showcase offers yet another outlet for couples to save time and money in their quest for the perfect wedding.
Whether you are just starting your planning, finishing up the details or anywhere in between, you will find exactly what you are looking for at the Houston Wedding Showcase. Tickets are $8 if purchased in advance through their web site http://houstonweddingshowcase.com. Tickets are available at the door for $10.
About the Houston Wedding Showcase
The Houston Wedding Showcase is co-produced by Sonja van Florestein, who has 10 years of experience as manager of one of the largest bridal shows in the country, and Marc McIntosh, who has produced top shows and national bridal event marketing programs for 15 years all over the country. The Houston Wedding Showcase is a one-stop wedding planning experience for engaged couples. The show features a fresh look and unique features that are new to the Houston bridal show market. The show is timed to reach both the couples who were engaged over the holidays (25%) and those who were engaged on Valentine's Day (12%) at a time when many crucial decisions are made in the wedding planning process.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.
WeddingWire Teams with Carbonfund.org, Encouraging Engaged Couples to Plan Zero-Carbon Weddings
Bethesda, MD - February 19, 2009 - WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, has partnered with Carbonfund.org to offer engaged couples an affordable way to make their wedding a special day for family, friends and for the planet as well. Couples and their guests can now calculate their carbon footprints and contribute jointly in offsetting the wedding, making it a carbon neutral event. To make this possible, WeddingWire has integrated Carbonfund.org's weddings carbon calculator as a tool on WeddingWire's personalized wedding websites.
Martha Stewart Weddings Editorial Director Darcy Miller believes, "With the state of the planet on so many people's minds, it is natural that brides and grooms want to incorporate a green aspect to their wedding. The offering of the carbon calculator on a couple's wedding website is a great way to educate the couple and their guests about offsetting their carbon footprint and throwing an eco-savvy event."
After reducing one's carbon footprint, carbon offsetting is the only way to become carbon neutral. "We are excited to have worked with WeddingWire in conveying our global warming message and integrating our carbon calculator on WeddingWire's wedding websites, said Eric Carlson, President of Carbonfund.org. "This helps couples and their guests take responsibility for and offset their carbon footprint by supporting innovative carbon reduction projects."
Carbonfund.org's carbon emissions reduction projects are in the areas of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and reforestation in the U.S. and abroad. All of Carbonfund.org's projects are independently verified to the highest certification standards. The nonprofit organization provides an array of individual and business offsetting options.
In addition to the carbon calculator, WeddingWire helps engaged couples reduce their carbon footprint by providing referrals on its site to local vendors in the couple's vicinity for wedding needs. Using local vendors helps minimize CO2 emissions from transporting goods. Over 100,000 vendors nationwide are part of WeddingWire's network, providing everything from wedding venues to wedding cakes.
"We are always looking for new ways to leverage our technology to better serve our users," says Timothy Chi, Chief Executive Officer of WeddingWire. "This partnership with Carbonfund.org will be incredibly beneficial for the countless number of couples looking to be environmentally conscious. With the integration of Carbonfund.org's carbon calculator, couples can ensure their personalized wedding website serves as the central place for wedding guests to become informed on the importance of a sustainable future, access event details, gift registry information, submit online RSVPs, and find local area information."
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.
About Carbonfund.org
Carbonfund.org is the country's leading nonprofit climate solutions organization, making it easy and affordable for individuals, businesses and organizations to reduce their climate impact. Carbonfund.org supports education, reduction and offset projects, and outreach activities to reduce carbon dioxide emissions globally, create green jobs and investment and reduce our reliance on foreign energy sources. Carbonfund.org has over 400,000 individual supporters and works with over 1,000 corporate and nonprofit partners including Volkswagen, Motorola, JetBlue, Hyundai, and Staples. Visit www.carbonfund.org.
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Contact:
Sonny Ganguly
WeddingWire, Inc. sganguly@weddingwire.com
301.231.9473
Boston Brides-To-Be Get Their Running Shoes Ready
Win a free wedding dress at the "Running of the Brides"® sale on February 20th
BOSTON, MA - February 12, 2009 - Filene's Basement is gearing up for their largest "Running of the Brides" sale of the year at Hynes Convention Center in Boston on Friday, February 20, 2009. Hundreds of brides-to-be will camp out in anticipation of the 8:00am opening.
This year, Filene's Basement has teamed up with online wedding planning site WeddingWire.com to offer four lucky brides the chance to win a free wedding dress at this event. The winners will be able to choose from over 3000 brand name and designer wedding gowns, which are otherwise priced between $249 - $699. For contest rules and entry, visit http://filenes.weddingwire.com.
Filene's Basement's World Famous Bridal Event, "Running of the Brides" has been a part of the framework of the wedding industry since 1947. Much like the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain, the "Running of the Brides" event has become a national phenomenon. When the clock strikes 8:00am, brides-to-be will sprint into the convention center to have the opportunity to buy the wedding gown of their dreams at an incredible discount.
"WeddingWire and Filene's Basement have been working together for years to promote the Running of the Brides events and we are so excited for the 2009 season," says Megan Hermeling, Community Manager for WeddingWire. "We just love to see brides come away with the wedding dress of their dreams for an incredible price!"
The early birds and their teams of helpers will arrive in the wee hours of Friday morning to grab their spot in line. Some will strategize, others will sleep, and even more will arrive in matching costumes just to have a good time. Whatever their intention, these teams will be ready when the doors open.
The Hynes Convention Center will open early for the sale at 8:00am and close at 8:00pm. Checks, credit cards and cash are accepted. For more information and the chance to win a free wedding dress, go to http://filenes.weddingwire.com.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.
About Filene's Basement, Inc.
Filene's Basement is an off-price retailer carrying a broad assortment of designer and brand-name fashion apparel and accessories for men, women and children. The store's famous Bridal Gown Sale is held one day a year in selected Filene's Basement stores and twice a year in its original store in Boston. For more information, visit www.filenesbasement.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Sonny Ganguly
WeddingWire, Inc. press@weddingwire.com
301.231.9473
2009 Bride's Choice Awards To Be Announced
WeddingWire to announce recipients of prestigious wedding award
BETHESDA, MD - January 28, 2009 - WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, is excited to announce the 2009 Bride's Choice Awards™. This year's winners represent the top three percent of WeddingWire's vendor community, which consists of over 100,000 local wedding professionals nationwide.
In its inaugural year, the Bride's Choice Awards recognizes and honors wedding vendors from the WeddingWire Network that demonstrate excellent quality of service, responsiveness, professionalism, value of cost and flexibility. Unlike other awards in which winners are selected by the company, the Bride's Choice Awards are determined exclusively by recent newlyweds through surveys and reviews.
"We are excited to launch this annual award program to honor high-performing vendors based solely on the experiences of our WeddingWire community," according to Timothy Chi, WeddingWire's Chief Executive Officer. "This year's recipients have set the bar high, exhibiting excellent service and expertise in the wedding industry. WeddingWire would like to congratulate this year's winners!"
Recipients of the 2009 Bride's Choice Awards will be notified via email during the first week of February. A list of the winners from each region will be available directly from the WeddingWire homepage for all visitors to view. Award recipients will receive a badge to place on their business websites and blogs to showcase this honor.
For more information on the Bride's Choice Awards, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.
The Hynes Convention Center will open early for the sale at 8:00am and close at 8:00pm. Checks, credit cards and cash are accepted. For more information and the chance to win a free wedding dress, go to http://filenes.weddingwire.com.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.marthastewartweddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.weddingwire.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Sonny Ganguly
WeddingWire, Inc. press@weddingwire.com
301.231.9473
WED WE CAN!
Experience the new face of wedding planning with WeddingWire.com
BETHESDA, MD - January 20, 2009 - WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, has launched their 'Wed We Can' campaign to coincide with the 56th Presidential Inauguration. The campaign, online at www.WedWeCan.com, focuses on the change WeddingWire has brought to online wedding planning by empowering today's brides and grooms.
"The internet has revolutionized the way engaged couples can plan their weddings," says Tim Chi, CEO of WeddingWire. "WeddingWire leverages technology to simplify the wedding planning process, creating a single destination to plan everything from the engagement to the wedding day."
WeddingWire allows engaged couples to easily search over 100,000 local wedding professionals from across the US, along with detailed reviews of their services. In addition, WeddingWire offers a full suite of online wedding planning tools, including wedding websites, checklists, and drag-and-drop seating charts. All of WeddingWire's cutting edge features are free of charge and offer engaged couples more choice, more knowledge, and more power to plan the wedding of their dreams.
There is no need to jump from site to site to search for answers, no need to drive all over town to find wedding vendors and no need to stress about all the details. WeddingWire provides an all inclusive resource to get inspiration, seek advice, find vendors, plan the details, and stay organized. Experience the new face of wedding planning at WeddingWire. For more information, please visit www.WedWeCan.com.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. For additional information, please visit www.weddingwire.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Sonny Ganguly
WeddingWire, Inc.
301.231.9473
Discover Over 200 Years of Wedding Planning Experience
WeddingWire announces the launch of WeddingAces.com
BETHESDA, MD - January 14, 2008 - WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, is excited to announce the launch of WeddingAces, a new online community designed to provide engaged couples with firsthand knowledge and experiences straight from the experts of the wedding industry. WeddingAces is now available nationwide at www.WeddingAces.com.
The new WeddingsAces community is comprised of numerous wedding bloggers with diverse backgrounds. From wedding cakes to rings, from wedding planning to photography, WeddingAces will provide wedding advice, planning tips, and inspirational ideas based on over 200 years of combined experience planning weddings around the country.
"Wedding vendors represent a true source of knowledge and expertise when it comes to planning a wedding. They work in the field day in and day out, passing on the traditions and experiencing the new trends with each bride," said Megan Cole-Karagory, WeddingWire's Vendor Success Manager. "It is our goal to provide a platform for these vendors to showcase their expertise and provide engaged couples with the inspiration and advice needed to plan a wedding."
Christine Tremoulet, a featured photographer on WeddingAces from Houston, Texas, believes, "WeddingAces is an amazing opportunity for brides and grooms to get creative advice on planning their weddings from the people that see weddings from the inside, and are always on top of the latest trends as they develop throughout the wedding industry!" Whether a couple is looking for information on the perfect diamond or for the latest photography styles, WeddingAces will serve as the essential expert resource for them to use throughout the entire planning process.
"Brides now have one centralized place to get friendly, non-corporate, honest advice from wedding experts in all categories," said Jonathan Mervis, a featured Jeweler on WeddingAces from the Washington, DC metro area. "Everyone likes personalized guidance and technology like this allows me to speak one-on-one with thousands of brides at the same time."
Richard Newton, a renowned wedding planner from the NYC area, is also excited to be one of the WeddingAces. "As a featured blogger on the site, I am both honored and thrilled to be able to share my experience with brides and grooms." Richard said, "It's important that couples enjoy the entire planning process, and I think that WeddingAces will be an incredible resource for them."
Christine, Jonathan, and Richard, along with the other WeddingAces from across the country, will serve as an expert source of knowledge, inspiration, and advice for engaged couples as they tackle the exciting, but stressful task of planning a wedding.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Sonny Ganguly
WeddingWire, Inc. sganguly@weddingwire.com
301.231.9473
Miami brides-to-be get their running shoes ready
Win a free wedding dress at the "Running of the Brides"® sale on January 16th
AVENTURA, FL - January 8, 2009 - Filene's Basement is gearing up for the first ever "Running of the Brides" sale at the new Aventura, FL location on Friday, January 16, 2009. Hundreds of brides-to-be will camp out in anticipation of the 8:00am opening.
This year, Filene's Basement has teamed up with online wedding planning site WeddingWire.com to offer four lucky brides the chance to win a free wedding dress at this event. The winners will be able to choose from over 1,400 brand name and designer wedding gowns, which are otherwise priced between $249 - $699. For contest rules and entry, visit http://filenes.weddingwire.com.
Filene's Basement's World Famous Bridal Event, "Running of the Brides" has been a part of the framework of the wedding industry since 1947. Much like the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain, the "Running of the Brides" event has become a national phenomenon. When the clock strikes 8:00am, brides-to-be will sprint into the store to have the opportunity to buy the wedding gown of their dreams at an incredible discount.
"WeddingWire and Filene's Basement have been working together for years to promote the Running of the Brides events and we are so excited to kick off the 2009 season at the brand new Aventura location," says Megan Hermeling, Community Manager for WeddingWire. "We just love to see brides come away with the wedding dress of their dreams for an incredible price!"
The early birds and their teams of helpers will arrive in the wee hours of Friday morning to grab their spot in line. Some will strategize, others will sleep, and even more will arrive in matching costumes just to have a good time. Whatever their intention, these teams will be ready when the doors open.
The Aventura location will open early for the sale at 8:00am and close at 9:30pm00pm. Checks, credit cards and cash are accepted. For more information and the chance to win a free wedding dress go to http://filenes.weddingwire.com.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.
About Filene's Basement, Inc.
Filene's Basement is an off-price retailer carrying a broad assortment of designer and brand-name fashion apparel and accessories for men, women and children. The store's famous Bridal Gown Sale is held one day a year in selected Filene's Basement stores and twice a year in its original store in Boston. For more information, visit www.filenesbasement.com.
WeddingWire announces the launch of BridalBuds.com
BETHESDA, MD - December 10, 2008 - WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, is excited to announce the launch of BridalBuds, a new blog community for engaged couples. BridalBuds uniquely combines WeddingWire's innovative online community with real wedding experiences, wedding planning tips, DIY projects, and wedding related contests. BridalBuds is available immediately nationwide at www.bridalbuds.com.
"We wanted to provide engaged couples with a fun and interactive community to discuss all things wedding," said Megan Hermeling, WeddingWire's Community Manager. "This site gives brides and grooms the opportunity to hear firsthand accounts of the joys and frustrations of planning a wedding."
This new community is designed to provide readers with thoughts and tips from current engaged couples as they go through the exciting, but stressful, experience of planning their wedding along with advice from newlyweds who have previously been in their position.
Lily Lee is an excited bride-to-be who has been busy planning her October 2009 wedding. "As a featured blogger on the site, I can't wait to share my wedding planning stories and ideas. I want to inspire other brides to be creative and have fun with this once in a lifetime event!"
Lee, along with several other brides and newlyweds from across the country, make up the narrative voice of the BridalBuds blogging community. By inviting readers into the intimate details of their wedding, these bloggers serve as a source of inspiration, imagination, and conversation for other engaged and newlywed couples.
For more information on BridalBuds or to join the community, please visit www.bridalbuds.com
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 80,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.marthastewart.com. For additional information, please visit www.weddingwire.com.
The Countdown Begins Friday for Winners of My 106.1's "Wedding in a Week" Contest
South Philly Couple have Seven Days to Plan Their Wedding Provided by WeddingWire.com
October, 1, 2008 - Philadelphia, PA: Imagine all the planning and preparation that goes into a wedding. Now picture this: you have one week and about $20,000.00 dollars worth of resources to pull it all together. A South Philly couple has this delicious dilemma as winners of the "Wedding in A Week" Contest sponsored by My106.1 and WeddingWire.com
Lisa Wasylenko and Victor Bernardes will begin to plan their wedding this Friday morning, October 3, live on My 106.1 FM radio in the 7:00 am hour. They will tie the knot on Friday, October 10, 2008 at the Hyatt Regency Philadelphia at Penn's Landing. That leaves them only seven days with Mark Kingsdorf from Queen of Heart Wedding Consultants to choose the wedding dress, formal wear, reception menu, photographer, cake, flowers and even the honeymoon.
How does the couple feel about winning and having a week to pull it all together? Lisa said, "We're thrilled! Mark has pulled together some of the very best wedding professionals. They'll have to help us make some very quick decisions!" The grand prize of an all-inclusive wedding valued at over $20,000 was awarded through an on-line voting contest at www.my1061.com.
About Clear Channel Communications
Clear Channel Communications, Inc. is a global media and entertainment company specializing in mobile and on-demand entertainment and information services for local communities and premiere opportunities for advertisers. Based in San Antonio, Texas, the company's businesses include radio and outdoor displays. More information is available at www.clearchannel.com.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.
Leading wedding site and top U.S. bridal show team up to reach engaged couples across the country
BETHESDA, MD - September 4, 2008 - WeddingWire, a leading online wedding planning resource, announced a new partnership with The Great Bridal Expo aimed at providing brides and grooms-to-be across the nation with the most complete wedding resources available.
The Great Bridal Expo's nationally sponsored tour crosses the United States, visiting major cities twice a year, reaching over 170,000 engaged couples who are in the midst of planning their big day. WeddingWire will have a presence at every stop on the circuit, demonstrating the latest technology and benefits of planning a wedding online.
"We are excited to be working with The Great Bridal Expo and their team of professionals to bring engaged couples and local wedding vendors together," said Sonny Ganguly, Chief Marketing Officer of WeddingWire. "Coupled with WeddingWire's suite of planning tools and wedding vendor reviews, the expert industry knowledge available at The Great Bridal Expo will help eliminate many of the stresses involved in planning such a special event."
"WeddingWire will make a wonderful partner for The Great Bridal Expo," said Bill Heaton, President and CEO of The Great Bridal Expo. "The company's expertise in online wedding planning is unsurpassed, and we think their experts will be able to share a tremendous amount of information and knowledge to the brides and grooms who attend our show."
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 80,000 wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding venues to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.marthastewart.com. For additional information, please visit www.weddingwire.com.
About The Great Bridal Expo
The Great Bridal Expo has been serving brides and grooms around the country for over 30 years with a high-style bridal event in cities around the nation. Great Bridal Expo is the only bridal event to be named one of Tradeshow Week's top 50 consumer shows in North America. The event occurs in large, upscale convention hotels and convention centers and features everything for the wedding, honeymoon and home. The Great Bridal Expo is sponsored nationally by WE tv, Sandals, J.C. Penney Gift Registry, David's Bridal, Things Remembered, Pfaltzgraff, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Macy's, Cuisinart, and T-Fal. The event is sponsored regionally by local companies in each city it visits. For more information, please visit www.greatbridalexpo.com.
Brides Can Now Plan Their Entire Wedding at MarthaStewart.com
Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Unveils Online Wedding Planning Tools Powered by WeddingWire to Help Create and Personalize the Big Day
NEW YORK, June 19, 2008 - Brides-to-be have long relied on Martha Stewart and her team of experts for wedding-related ideas and inspiration. Today, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) takes the wedding planning process to a new level by unveiling a robust suite of online wedding-planning tools available at marthastewart.com (www.marthastewart.com/weddings) and powered by WeddingWire (www.weddingwire.com).
The introduction of the new toolset is part of MSLO's larger strategy to extend its wedding franchise, which includes the award-winning Martha Stewart's Weddings magazine, extensive online content on marthastewart.com and weddings-related books such as Weddings by Martha Stewart and Martha Stewart's Wedding Cakes. The Martha Stewart Collection exclusively at Macy's is the No. 1 brand on Macy's bridal registry.
Now, with these free and easy-to-use tools, couples and wedding planners can turn to marthastewart.com to plan and manage their entire wedding experience from start to finish. The new tools include:
� My Budget - easily track payments and expenses � My Guests - draft or import the invite list and then track RSVPs, invitations and gifts � My Seating - build and manage the seating chart by dragging and dropping people into their chairs � My Timeline - generate a personalized timeline based on wedding date � My Checklist - manage tasks and keep track of wedding details � My Vendors - save, rate and recommend favorite vendors from the vendor search tool
These tools join an existing vendor search function that was introduced on marthastewart.com earlier this year, providing access to thousands of wedding vendors nationwide and allowing couples to easily locate vendors in their geographic area.
"We're thrilled to be providing access to such a rich array of wedding-planning tools. This new offering provides a seamless experience, making us even more attractive to brides, grooms, wedding planners and marketers. It also strengthens our position in the space as we grow our Weddings franchise online and in print," stated Wenda Harris Millard, MSLO Co-CEO and President of Media. "WeddingWire's expertise will also enable us to offer similar tools and features across our Internet sites."
The introduction of the wedding-planning toolset is the result of MSLO's investment in WeddingWire, a localized wedding platform that combines an online marketplace with planning tools and a social community, announced in February 2008.
"Our collaboration with MSLO is off to a strong start. Together we have created an unparalleled offering that benefits our rapidly expanding community of local wedding vendors, and engaged couples, who can now access these cutting-edge tools on marthastewart.com," said Timothy Chi, Chief Executive Officer of WeddingWire.
Marthastewart.com/weddings is an ideal destination for couples preparing for their nuptials. In addition to the new planning tools, brides-to-be can access creative ideas from the award-winning Martha Stewart's Weddings magazine, gain expertise at the "Brides Guide" blog written by Weddings Editorial Director Darcy Miller, view photo galleries ranging from vibrant floral centerpieces to stunning gowns, watch wedding segments from The Martha Stewart Show, browse decorations and favors from Martha Stewarts Crafts or view registry items from the Martha Stewart Collection exclusively at Macy's.
Additionally, Hilton Family e-Events has signed on as a charter sponsor of www.marthastewart.com/weddings. The Hilton Family will be promoting their e-Events booking tools that allow users to book group accommodations to their family of brands and U.S. hotel locations.
About Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc.
Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) is a diversified media and merchandising company, inspiring and engaging consumers with unique lifestyle content and distinctive products. The Publishing segment encompasses four magazines, including the company's flagship publication, Martha Stewart Living, periodic special issues and books. The marthastewart.com website provides consumers with instant access to MSLO's multimedia library, search and find capabilities, recipes, online workshops, community and personalization, as well as wedding-planning tools powered by WeddingWire. The Broadcasting segment produces such programming as the Emmy-winning daily, nationally syndicated television series, "The Martha Stewart Show," and Martha Stewart Living Radio, channel 112 on SIRIUS Satellite Radio. In addition to its media properties, MSLO offers high-quality Martha Stewart products through licensing agreements with carefully selected companies, including the Martha Stewart Collection exclusively at Macy's, Martha Stewart Everyday at Kmart, Martha Stewart Crafts with EK Success, Martha Stewart for 1-800-Flowers.com and a co-branded food line with Costco. In April 2008, Emeril Lagasse joined the Martha Stewart family of brands; MSLO acquired the assets related to Lagasse's media and merchandising business, including television programming, cookbooks, and emerils.com website and his licensed kitchen and food products. For additional information about MSLO, visit www.marthastewart.com.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 50,000 wedding vendors nationwide. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. For additional information, please visit www.weddingwire.com.
MARTHA STEWART LIVING OMNIMEDIA ENTERS TRANSACTIONS WITH WEDDINGWIRE
MSLO Expands its Weddings Franchise by Taking 40 Percent Stake, Signing Commercial Agreement with Online Wedding Planning Company
NEW YORK, February 19, 2008 -- Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) today announced a series of transactions with WeddingWire (www.weddingwire.com), a localized wedding platform that combines an online marketplace with planning tools and a social community. The deal is part of MSLO's strategy to accelerate its digital footprint and expand its Weddings franchise online and in print. It includes the acquisition of approximately 40 percent of the equity in WeddingWire and a commercial agreement related to software and content licensing and media sales.
WeddingWire was created by a team of entrepreneurs, including two founding members of Blackboard Inc, to provide engaged couples with comprehensive vendor search and easy-to-use online planning and community tools. The platform's SmartMatch� technology allows brides and grooms to find, research, and receive quick price quotes from vendors in their area, saving couples time, energy and money. WeddingWire offers a range of additional applications, including tools for creating a wedding website, managing budgets, guest lists, and seating charts. It also features social networking and user-generated content tools to help couples make better, more informed decisions.
"Today's couples devote a tremendous amount of time, energy and resources to creating their perfect day. The level of intensity they bring to the process presents a highly attractive opportunity for both MSLO and our Weddings franchise," said Susan Lyne, President and Chief Executive Officer of MSLO. "With this investment, brides who rely on our content for wedding-related inspiration and ideas will be able to plan, manage and share every step of the process. The WeddingWire team has created a seamless experience for engaged couples and a great platform for marketers that will significantly strengthen our position in this space."
As part of the investment agreement, MSLO and WeddingWire signed a commercial agreement through which WeddingWire will offer its proprietary tools on the Weddings section of marthastewart.com, allowing users ready access to a vast network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools. MSLO may also integrate similar tools using WeddingWire's technology across its other content verticals. WeddingWire's main web property, www.weddingwire.com, will receive Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia content, which will include integrated links to drive traffic to marthastewart.com. In addition, WeddingWire has designated MSLO as its exclusive national advertising sales force for the duration of the agreement, and the two companies will share the advertising revenues sold on the site.
"By investing in WeddingWire, we are assembling a robust online offering with a proven toolset to enhance our digital Weddings content and complement what is already the category's premier print magazine," said Wenda Harris Millard, President, Media, MSLO. "We are impressed by WeddingWire's superior online platform and see great opportunities to leverage its expertise across our Internet sites and bring similar tools and features to our other lifestyle content verticals. This is also a tremendous opportunity for our advertisers to reach couples engaged in the process of planning their wedding."
"This is an ideal partnership that will bring real value to engaged couples and wedding vendors alike. MSLO's commitment to excellence in the weddings category, when paired with our suite of innovative wedding planning tools, creates an unrivaled offering for engaged couples everywhere," said Timothy Chi, Chief Executive Officer of WeddingWire. "MSLO's breadth and reach will also greatly benefit our fast-growing community of local wedding vendors by expanding the distribution network that WeddingWire currently provides."
MSLO led this Series A investment round, which includes existing WeddingWire investors. The funding from the round will be used to develop new technologies and increase reach nationwide. As part of MSLO's investment, Ms. Millard and MSLO CIO Mike Plonski will join WeddingWire's board of directors.
About Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc.
Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) is a diversified media and merchandising company, inspiring and engaging consumers with unique content and distinctive products. The Publishing segment encompasses four magazines, including the company's flagship publication, Martha Stewart Living, periodic special issues and books. The marthastewart.com website provides consumers with instant access to MSLO's multimedia library, search and find capabilities, and more. The Broadcasting division produces the Emmy-winning daily, national syndicated program, "The Martha Stewart Show," "Everyday Food," "Everyday Baking from Everyday Food" and Martha Stewart Living Radio, channel 112 on SIRIUS Satellite Radio. In addition to its media properties, MSLO offers beautiful, practical and superior quality Martha Stewart products through licensing agreements with carefully selected companies. For additional information, visit www.marthastewart.com.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 30,000 wedding vendors nationwide. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. For additional information, please visit www.weddingwire.com.
CONTACT: Elizabeth Estroff, SVP, Corporate Communications,
1-212-827-8281, eestroff@marthastewart.com
Web site: http://www.marthastewart.com http://www.marthastewart.com/ir
LAS VEGAS, NV - January 25, 2008 - WeddingWire, an online platform designed to simplify wedding planning, has quickly become a top online wedding destinations for Nevada brides and grooms. The company will launch its cutting-edge services to thousands of brides this weekend at the Bridal Spectacular®, which will be held at the Cashman Convention Center in Las Vegas.
WeddingWire offers unrivaled planning tools that enable engaged couples to save time and money planning their dream wedding, while working with wedding vendors that share their vision of a distinctive celebration. These planning tools are free of charge and allow couples to:
- Plan: Find thousands of wedding vendors throughout Las Vegas and Nevada, compare real reviews from newlyweds, and get multiple estimates directly from vendors.
- Share: Get wedding ideas and advice from wedding experts, chat with local southern California brides, and share your suggestions for wedding songs and wedding music.
- Organize: Get free wedding planning tools, including checklist, timeline, guest list and seating management, build your free wedding website, and manage your budget.
"Finding WeddingWire was a saving grace for my fianc� and me," said recently married Stephanie Silverman. "For us, the excitement of getting married was being lost on the enormity of planning this single day. WeddingWire helped us streamline the process, allowed us to find the perfect bridal vendors and realize our dream wedding without breaking the bank, and did so for no cost. Even sites that charge a fee don't offer as many resources as WeddingWire."
WeddingWire's online offering is currently available at www.weddingwire.com. For information about the Bridal Spectacular®, please visit www.bridalspectacular.com.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is a leading wedding planning resource that allows engaged couples to search over 30,000 wedding vendors, compare detailed ratings & reviews, and get estimates online. In addition, the site offers local events, an online community, easy-to-use planning tools, and wedding websites, all at no charge. For more information on WeddingWire, please visit www.weddingwire.com
Media Contact:
Sonny Ganguly press@weddingwire.com
New Online Wedding Destination Hits the West Coast
WeddingWire officially arrives in Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES, CA - January 18, 2008 - WeddingWire, an online platform designed to simplify wedding planning, has quickly become one of the top online wedding destinations for Southern California brides and grooms. The company will launch its cutting-edge services to thousands of brides this weekend at a bridal show in the Los Angeles Convention Center.
WeddingWire offers unrivaled planning tools that enable engaged couples to save time and money planning their dream wedding, while working with wedding vendors that share their vision of a distinctive celebration. These planning tools are free of charge and allow couples to:
- Plan: Find thousands of wedding vendors throughout Los Angeles and Orange County, compare real reviews from newlyweds, and get multiple estimates directly from vendors.
- Share: Get wedding ideas and advice from wedding experts, chat with local southern California brides, and share your suggestions for wedding songs and wedding music.
- Organize: Get free wedding planning tools, including checklist, timeline, guest list and seating management, build your free wedding website, and manage your budget.
"Finding WeddingWire was a saving grace for my fianc� and me," said recently married Stephanie Silverman. "For us, the excitement of getting married was being lost on the enormity of planning this single day. WeddingWire helped us streamline the process, allowed us to find the perfect bridal vendors and realize our dream wedding without breaking the bank, and did so for no cost. Even sites that charge a fee don't offer as many resources as WeddingWire."
WeddingWire's online offering is currently available at www.weddingwire.com.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is a leading wedding planning resource that allows engaged couples to search over 30,000 wedding vendors, compare detailed ratings & reviews, and get estimates online. In addition, the site offers local events, an online community, easy-to-use planning tools, and wedding websites, all at no charge. For more information on WeddingWire, please visit www.weddingwire.com
Media Contact:
Sonny Ganguly press@weddingwire.com
Filene's Basement Holds its Famous "Running of the Brides" Sale in Towson on July 13, 2007
TOWSON, M.D. - July 6, 2007 - The annual "Running of the Brides" takes place this year on Friday, July 13 at Filene's Basement in Towson. Hundreds of brides-to-be and their helpers are expected to be at the Towson Place store when the doors open at 8:00am.
The sale is wildly popular among brides because the savings are so great. Over fifteen hundred designer and famous-name wedding gowns will be priced at $249, $499 and $699. In bridal salons these dresses would cost between $900 and $9,000.
The gowns come from both American and European manufacturers and from bridal shops. "We promise our vendors that we won't reveal the labels, but I can say that these are well known names featured regularly on the pages of popular brides' magazines," said Anna Podore, the Basement's wedding gown buyer. The assortment represents both contemporary and traditional styles in a variety of fabrics. Sizes range from 4 to 24.
Filene's Basement's Bridal Gown Sale is often referred to as the "running of the brides," because it reminds people of the famous "running of the bulls" in Pamplona. Lines begin to form outside the store as early as 3:00am. When the doors open at 8:00am, the brides-to-be and their helpers run full speed towards the racks. In less than 60 seconds, the racks are stripped bare (store employees have to hold on to the fixtures so they don't topple). Shoppers grab as many gowns as their arms can hold, haul them off to a corner, peel off a layer or two of clothing and start the "trying on" process. Not long after, the trading begins. Every dress, no matter what size, style or color, gets bartered for another, as each bride tries to find the gown of her dreams at a cut-rate price.
Filene's Basement in Towson will open early for the sale at 8:00am and close at 9:30pm. Checks, credit cards and cash are accepted. For more information go to www.filenesbasement.com and click on "Bridal Event."
Want to "Skip the Line" at the Running of the Brides in Towson?
WeddingWire, one of the leading bridal resource centers on the web, has VIP passes to the "Running of the Brides" that will give a handful
of brides-to-be a head start on their shopping. Three lucky winners will be let into Filene's Basement at 7:00am for an hour of
private shopping before the doors open to the public at 8:00am. Look for details at http://filenes.weddingwire.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Sarah Hawley
Mockingbird PR
480-558-4181 sarah@mockingbirdpr.com
WeddingWire Forecasts 2008 Wedding Trends
Company shares information about long and short term bridal trends in order to ease planning process
WASHINGTON, D.C. - July 24, 2007 - Further demonstrating itself as a thought leader, WeddingWire Inc, an online platform designed to simplify wedding planning for engaged couples and wedding vendors, has identified a number of trends slated to significantly impact weddings currently being planned for Summer 2008, in addition to those embraced by couples marrying in the near-term.
"Today's wedding takes 12 to 14 months to plan, so couples need to be proactive about understanding next year's trends," said Timothy Chi, CEO at WeddingWire. "WeddingWire works closely with every bridal category and is well equipped to share what is currently happening or is on the cusp of the market. We know that couples want to plan personalized nuptials and our aim is to share information to help them meet that goal with flair."
In addition to three major trends that will affect both engaged couples and wedding vendors over the next 12 - 24 months, WeddingWire also recognized trends having an immediate impact on the bridal industry. According to WeddingWire, the market is seeing an evolution in bridal registries whereby engaged couples use their registries to establish honeymoon funds or even to contribute to their favorite charities. Additionally, some brides-to-be are expressing their independence by not only choosing their own engagement rings, but in some cases by purchasing the ring themselves. And in a significant shift, modern brides are embracing a 'live in the moment' attitude and are opting not to seal their wedding gowns after the ceremony. Instead, they are taking deconstructed photos wearing their gowns in the ocean, climbing a tree or even doing menial tasks like washing the car or mowing the lawn.
Planning longer term, WeddingWire anticipates the following three trends to impact the bridal industry over the next one to two years:
-Green Weddings - couples will further embrace environmentally responsible products and practices for their weddings and receptions. And while some couples will go completely green, others will implement small changes such as locally grown produce, flowers and meat, use of recycled paper for everything from invitations to place cards, and inviting fewer guests to limit the use of non-green materials;
-Destination Weddings - always popular in tropical or exotic locales, this trend will grow dramatically in Europe where celebrity marriages like Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes or Eva Longoria and Tony Parker have created a frenzy. This focus on European destination weddings means that couples now have a better understanding of how to plan their weddings overseas and even have access to European products now being marketed in the United States;
-Wedding Cakes Disappear - the old custom of a tiered, butter cream frosted cake is a yesterday tradition. Forward thinking couples still want to satisfy their sweet tooth, but are choosing to do so in more unique ways. Cupcakes, cookies and even ice cream cakes are a more unique and easily personalized choice that many 2008 couples will lean toward.
"Through our vendor relationships and robust community network, WeddingWire has access to the people and companies starting these trends," continued Chi. "Planning a wedding should be joyous, not stressful. So, by sharing what we know, we hope to further advance our mission of making the planning process as simple as possible for engaged couples."
Created by the co-founders of Blackboard Inc. (NASDAQ: BBBB), WeddingWire offers engaged couples unrivaled planning tools that enable pairs to save time and money planning their dream wedding, while working with vendors that share their vision of a distinctive celebration. For vendors, WeddingWire puts companies online where today's savvy engaged couples are planning their weddings. For both, WeddingWire offers its services free of charge. For more information on WeddingWire, please visit www.weddingwire.com.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
In the $50 billion annual wedding industry, WeddingWire is the only company that allows engaged couples and vendors to work in concert to produce distinctive, heart-felt nuptials while alleviating the pain points felt by both parties. For engaged couples, WeddingWire's unrivaled planning efficiencies are a tremendous value, saving time and money, and online social networking satisfies an emotional need to connect with other couples also planning their big days. On the vendor side, WeddingWire enables business owners to market themselves over the internet for no cost and guaranteed ROI, and creates the only market opportunity that gives vendors control over their budget, service reviews, lead generation and performance. For both, WeddingWire creates a win/win opportunity - it allows couples and vendors alike to seek out the people they want to collaborate with in order to design a beautiful, original and moving day that is the start of a new life as one.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Sarah Hawley
Mockingbird PR
480-558-4181 sarah@mockingbirdpr.com
WeddingWire Unveils Online Service that Transforms Personal Wedding Planning
Introduces market's only offering that eases pain points for both engaged couples and bridal vendors at no cost to either
WASHINGTON, D.C. - May 1, 2007 - WeddingWire, an online platform designed to simplify wedding planning for engaged couples and wedding vendors, announced its public launch today. In the $50 billion annual US wedding industry, WeddingWire is the only company that enables engaged couples and wedding vendors to work in concert to produce distinctive, heart-felt nuptials while alleviating the pain points felt by both parties. WeddingWire's online offering is available immediately across the United States at www.weddingwire.com.
For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers unrivaled planning tools that enable pairs to save time and money planning their dream wedding, while working with vendors that share their vision of a distinctive celebration. These planning tools are free of charge to engaged couples and include:
- The industry's first map-based vendor catalog that permits quick and easy vendor searches based on geography, category and customer ratings;
- The market's only collaborative comparison shopping tool, SmartMatch�, which provides couples a single-point for requesting and receiving vendor estimates. Instead of making appointments and driving across town, engaged couples can now receive multiple estimates for wedding services with the click of a button;
- The most complete and accurate vendor rating system in the industry. Newlywed-written vendor ratings and reviews empower engaged couples to select the best and brightest partners for planning their special days. WeddingWire's vendor reviews cover the five most important areas for choosing a vendor, from quality of service to flexibility, and help ensure the best investment and end result for couples;
- Best-of-breed project management tools for overseeing every aspect of the monumental planning process. In addition to traditional planning tools like guest list management and budget tracking, WeddingWire has introduced a number of innovative tools at no cost such as drag-and-drop seating charts and robust wedding websites; and
- Social networking that connects enthusiastic engaged couples so idea sharing and friendships can flourish over the shared excitement of their impending nuptials.
"Finding WeddingWire has been a saving grace for my fianc� and me," said Stephanie Silverman of Arlington, Virginia. "For us, the excitement of getting married was being lost on the enormity of planning this single day. WeddingWire has helped us streamline the process, allowed us to find the perfect bridal vendors that can help us realize our dream wedding without breaking the bank, and has done so for no cost. Even sites that charge a fee don't offer as many resources as WeddingWire."
For vendors and for no charge, WeddingWire puts companies online where today's savvy engaged couples are planning their nuptials. WeddingWire helps vendors meet and work with couples who appreciate their discriminating tastes and grow their business without the risk of high-costs or low return on investment; vendors pay nothing until they are successfully matched with a couple. WeddingWire offers vendors:
-A no cost Internet storefront that enables vendors to create an online presence complete with a business profile, portfolio images or videos and more. Businesses can use this profile as their corporate website or can link back to their own homepage;
-The wedding industry's only opportunity for vendors to respond to newlywed-written ratings and reviews of their products and services. This �checks-and-balances' measure ensures that wedding vendors are fairly represented in the platform's full-bodied ratings and reviews section; and
-Peer networking opportunities so vendors can co-market services, recommend other companies, and even provide testimonials for companies they have worked with in the past.
"Until now, no solution has taken into consideration the needs of both engaged couples and bridal vendors during the wedding planning process," said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire co-founder and CEO. "WeddingWire offers tangible value to both of these audiences with an innovative and technically advanced offering that ensures that engaged couples and wedding vendors connect with no risk to either party. Our goal is to take the pain out of wedding planning and to ensure the couples work with their ideal partners."
WeddingWire is led by an experienced team of entrepreneurs, technologists, and marketers. The management's background includes founding members of Blackboard Inc. (NASDAQ: BBBB), a successful startup employing over 600 people with a market capitalization of over $900MM, technology talent that has implemented systems for Intel, Fannie Mae, and AT&T, sales and marketing veterans who have managed global sales forces and national consumer brands, and industry experts from within the wedding industry.
For more information on WeddingWire, please visit www.weddingwire.com.
About WeddingWire, Inc.
In the $50 billion annual wedding industry, WeddingWire is the only company that allows engaged couples and vendors to work in concert to produce distinctive, heart-felt nuptials while alleviating the pain points felt by both parties. For engaged couples, WeddingWire's unrivaled planning efficiencies are a tremendous value, saving time and money, and online social networking satisfies an emotional need to connect with other couples also planning their big days. On the vendor side, WeddingWire enables business owners to market themselves over the internet for no cost and guaranteed ROI, and creates the only market opportunity that gives vendors control over their budget, service reviews, lead generation and performance. For both, WeddingWire creates a win/win opportunity - it allows couples and vendors alike to seek out the people they want to collaborate with in order to design a beautiful, original and moving day that is the start of a new life as one.
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In the News
JUNE 10, 2009
Washingtonian.com: The Quest for the Perfect Cake
View Article
JUNE 7, 2009
SFGate.com: Paper Wedding Invitations Become Something Old
View Article
APRIL 24, 2009
WeddingWire's Megan Hermeling on Mix 100FM in Denver, CO discussing My Wedding in a Week!
Listen
APRIL 3, 2009
WeddingWire's Megan Hermeling on Star 101.3FM in San Francisco, CA discussing My Wedding in a Week!
Listen
FEBRUARY 20, 2009
Fox45: Baltimore's My Wedding in a Week - The Wedding Day!
View Video
JANUARY 2009 WeddingWire is a Hitwise Top 10 Award Winner During the October - December 2008 period, www.weddingwire.com ranked No. 10 based on market share of visits among all US websites in the Hitwise Lifestyle - Weddings industry.
SEPTEMBER 29, 2008 WeddingWire featured on Wedding Podcast Network Brian and Megan join us from WeddingWire, one of our favorite wedding websites. WeddingWire provides productive channels for engaged couples and vendors to interact with each other so you can find the people you want to collaborate with. They talk about the unique aspects of their ratings and review system to help make the planning process easier. Listen to Podcast
AUGUST 1, 2008 When Bridal Parties Attack! What do you call 700 sleepless, crazed people that will do anything to satisfy the hunger of the one true beast of humanity? You call it Filene's Basement's RUNNING OF THE BRIDES! WeddingWire and Hot 99.5 were handing out gift cards for FREE DRESSES! View Video
JULY 16, 2008 Couples plan weddings with click of a mouse Susan and Mark Golebiowski found love on an Internet dating site, so it was only appropriate that when the couple started planning their June wedding they turned to the Web... View Article
JULY 9, 2008
DIY Bride names WeddingWire #1 in Online Planning Tools View Article
JULY 7, 2008
Arizona Bride Magazine awards WeddingWire "Best of 2008" award in the category for "Best Local Planning Website" View Website
MAY 28, 2008
CNBC: Martha Stewart on CNBC talks about WeddingWire View Video
MAY 22, 2008
WashingtonPost.com: Growth Built On Cupcakes, Weddings View Article
MAY 19, 2008
Bisnow: 35 UNDER 35 Top Entrepreneurs of the Washington Region View Article
FEB 22, 2008
VentureBeat: MSLO makes investment in WeddingWire View Article
FEB 22, 2008
Internet Retailer: Martha Stewart expands online in deal with wedding marketplace View Article
FEB 21, 2008
Mashable: Martha Stewart Takes 40% of Niche Wedding Site: WeddingWire View Article
FEB 19, 2008
Houston Chronicle: Martha Stewart Buys Into Wedding Site View Article
FEB 19, 2008
Washington Business Journal: Martha Stewart Living takes stake in WeddingWire View Article
FEB 19, 2008
Digital MediaWire: Martha Stewart Living Buys 40% Stake in WeddingWire View Article
FEB 19, 2008
CNN Money: Martha Stewart takes 40% stake in WeddingWire View Article
AUG 14, 2007
Marketwatch: WeddingWire.com and BabySitters.com Enter Into Strategic Partnership
WeddingWire Inc, an online platform designed to simplify wedding planning for engaged couples and wedding vendors, and BabySitters.com, an Internet-based company that matches parents with qualified child care resources, today announced the two companies have entered into a strategic partnership.
JULY 25, 2007
DC Examiner: WeddingWire aims to lower stress level of tech-savvy brides View Article
JULY 24, 2007
Forbes.com: WeddingWire Forecasts 2008 Wedding Trends
Further demonstrating itself as a thought leader, WeddingWire, an online platform designed to simplify wedding planning for engaged couples and wedding vendors, has identified a number of trends slated to significantly impact weddings currently being planned for Summer 2008.
JULY 20, 2007
DC North: New Web site eases pain of wedding planning View Article
JULY 13, 2007
CBS Baltimore: Filene's Basement "Running Of The Brides". WeddingWire's Laura Auer at the Towson, MD event. View Article
In partnership with Filene's Basement, WeddingWire gave away three (3) "Skip-The-Line" passes that entitled the winners to enter the store 1 hour early
to dress shop before the general public was allowed in!
More coverage of the event
JUNE 27, 2007
WUSA9: WeddingWire's Laura Auer comments on Ring Assertives View Article
JUNE 7, 2007
NBC4: Coverage of the WeddingWire Launch Party
View Article
MAY 1, 2007
Yahoo Finance: WeddingWire Unveils Online Service that Transforms Personal Wedding Planning
In the $50 billion annual US wedding industry, WeddingWire is the only company that enables engaged couples and wedding vendors to work in concert to produce distinctive, heart-felt nuptials while alleviating the pain points felt by both parties.
MAY 1, 2007
Digital Trends: WeddingWire includes everything from map-based vendor catalogs to drag-and-drop guest seating for the big day. Get ready to get spendy.
http://news.digitaltrends.com/article12865.html
APRIL 21, 2007
WeddingWire was featured on the Denver ABC 7 News. The segment focused on WeddingWire's launch in the local Denver market.
FEB 5, 2007
WeddingWire was featured on the Fox Morning News in Baltimore. The segment focused on how WeddingWire is taking the stress out of wedding planning.
FEB 2007
WeddingWire is featured in Washington Life Magazine.
On The Town
MAY 2009 The CMO Club Thought Leadership Summit Location: New York City, NY Presenter: Sonny Ganguly, CMO, WeddingWire Inc. Topic: Leveraging Social Media for B2C and B2B Success On the Web:http://www.thecmoclub.com/
APRIL/MAY 2009 Bridal Show Producers International (BSPi) Annual Conference Location: Minneapolis, MN Presenter: Sonny Ganguly, CMO, WeddingWire Inc. Topic 1: 20 Online Tools for Your Business Topic 2: Internet Advertising Made Easy On the Web:http://www.bspishows.com/
APRIL 2009 American Disc Jockey Association (ADJA) Location: Washington, DC Presenter: Sonny Ganguly, CMO, WeddingWire Inc. Topic: Building Your Online Presence On the Web:http://www.adja.org/chapters/washdc/
APRIL 2009 Piedmont Club's BizNet Luncheon Location: Haymarket, VA Presenter: Sonny Ganguly, CMO, WeddingWire Inc. Topic: Leveraging Social Media for Small Businesses
FEBRUARY 2009 Association of Wedding Gown Specialists - Annual Meeting Location: San Antonio, TX Presenter: Sonny Ganguly, CMO, WeddingWire Inc Topic: Reaching Brides in Today's Economy On the Web:http://weddinggownspecialists.com/
SEPTEMBER 2008 The Wedding MBA Location: Phoenix, AZ Presenter: Timothy Chi, CEO and Sonny Ganguly, CMO, WeddingWire Inc Topic: Reaching Today's Wired Bride On the Web:http://www.weddingmba.com
AUGUST 2008 Northeast Regional Conference with the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) Location: New Brunswick, NJ Presenter: Sonny Ganguly, CMO, WeddingWire Inc Topic: Reaching Today's Wired Bride On the Web:http://www.mycentraljersey.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008807280324
MAY 2008 Bridal Show Producers International (BSPi) Annual Conference Location: Denver, CO Presenter: Timothy Chi, CEO and Sonny Ganguly, CMO, WeddingWire Inc Topic 1: What's New on the Net Topic 2: Reach Today's Wired Bride On the Web:http://www.bspishows.com
APRIL 2008 Association of Wedding Professionals (AWP) Location: Tysons Corner, VA Presenter: Sonny Ganguly, Chief Marketing Officer, WeddingWire Inc Topic: How to Reach Brides in Today's Market On the Web:http://www.weddingprofessionals.org
NOVEMBER 2007 International Society for Event Specialists (ISES) - Philadelphia Chapter Location:Philidelphia, PA Presenter: Sonny Ganguly, Chief Marketing Officer, WeddingWire Inc Topic: Reaching Today's Bride On the Web:http://www.isesphila.com/displaycommon.cfm?an=6
SEPTEMBER 2007 Ladies Night Out - Presented by WeddingWire Location:Washington, DC Details: WeddingWire was the official sponsor for Ladies Night Out with the Washington Nationals on September 20, 2007 On the Web:http://diningout.meetup.com/276/calendar/6308278
SEPTEMBER 2007 International Society for Event Specialists (ISES) - Hampton Roads Chapter Location:Portsmouth, Virginia Presenter: Sonny Ganguly, Chief Marketing Officer, WeddingWire Inc Topic: 12 Ways to Reach Your Customers for Free On the Web:http://www.iseshamptonroads.com/home.html
JUNE 2007 Internation Society for Event Specialists (ISES) - DC Chapter Location:Arlington, Virginia Presenter: Sonny Ganguly, Chief Marketing Officer, WeddingWire Inc Topic: 10 Ways to Build Your Brand Equity On the Web:http://www.dcises.org/2007_June_Cocktail.shtml
MAY 2007 Association of Bridal Consultants - DC Chapter Presenter: Sonny Ganguly, Chief Marketing Officer, WeddingWire Inc Topic: Reaching Brides for Free
MAY 2007 Bridal Show Producers International Annual Conference Location: Montreal, Quebec Presenters: Timothy Chi, CEO and Sonny Ganguly, CMO, WeddingWire Inc Topic 1: Getting More Mileage From The Internet Topic 2: 20 Ways to Reach Today's Bride On the Web:http://www.bspishows.com
