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Jacksonville Magazine’s fourth annual Great Wedding Giveaway is officially underway. Since 2009 three lucky First Coast couples already have been treated to the wedding of their dreams. The search for couple number four will soon be over.
The Great Wedding Giveaway is a once-in-a-lifetime prize package that has become the most talked about contest extravaganza in all of Northeast Florida. Since 2009, we have awarded more than $100,000 in wedding services and goods provided by the region’s leading bridal business professionals. Well, for 2012, we’re at it again. And this year is even bigger!
The beautiful Serenata Beach Club in South Ponte Vedra Beach once again serves as the host site for the oceanside ceremony and reception.
The gorgeous Hawks Cay Resort in the Florida Keys is providing a spectacular honeymoon getaway. A bevy of top local wedding services including photography, DJ entertainment, nuptials jewelry, luncheons, hair, makeup and more is included, too. And, perhaps most exciting of all, the 2012 ceremony will be broadcast for a live television audience by WJXT-TV 4!
The 2012 package includes:
Serenata Beach Club
Wedding & Reception • As North Florida’s premier oceanside private membership club, Serenata Beach Club is a favorite for brides searching for the ultimate location at which to host a wedding. Perched atop high dunes between Ponte Vedra Beach and St. Augustine, Serenata features all the amenities one would expect from a first-class club—outstanding dining, two pools, exercise facilities and more. Plus, the view of the Atlantic Ocean is unmatched in the region. • 3175 S. Ponte Vedra Blvd., 823-3368. www.serenataclub.com
Casa Marina
Bridal Shower for 25 in Penthouse • Weddings and private parties at the Casa Marina are our specialty. We take pleasure in adding a bit of imagination and glamour to every special affair, allowing our guests to relax and leave the details to us. Our genuine and personal attention to every aspect of outstanding service and exquisite food will exceed your expectations. The Penthouse Lounge enjoys its own notoriety, with one of the most stunning views of the Florida coastline. • 691 N. First St. Jacksonville Beach, (904) 270-0025. www.casamarinahotel.com
Publix Bakery
Wedding Cake for 100 • The Publix Bakery is known for superior quality. And nowhere is this more evident than in our Publix Bakery customized cakes. Our experienced and talented cake designers will work with you to help create the perfect cake for your special occasion. www.publix.com
Love, A Bridal Boutique
Gown Gift Certificate • Located in the heart of the bustling shopping and entertainment district of Jacksonville Beach, Love features many unique bridal fashions and accessories for brides, bridesmaids, flower girls and mothers, as well as dresses for special occasions. Our goal is to provide our clients with an elegant and comfortable boutique environment to enjoy selecting their bridal and special occasion ensembles. • 434 Third St. N., 242-9800 www.lovebridalboutique.com
Hawks Cay Island Resort
Honeymoon Getaway • The winning couple will receive a complimentary three-night stay, with breakfast daily and a sunset cruise. Hawks Cay, located midway down the Florida Keys on the 60-acre island of Duck Key, offers some of the world’s best fishing, exciting water sports, dolphin interaction programs, five swimming pools, restaurants, spa and a variety of luxurious accommodations. Guests enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, sunset cruises, tennis and more. Villas and guest rooms feature the relaxed charm of the Keys with the highest quality décor, all just steps from the water. The restaurants of Hawks Cay embrace the true flavor of the islands, both on your plate and in the surroundings. Each of the dining experience offers fresh local ingredients prepared by world-renowned chefs. From a romantic dinner at Alma and glasses of wine by the fire pit, to a toes-in-the-sand lunch at Beach Grill, Hawks Cay restaurants offer diverse menus and settings that turn any occasion into a memorable event. (888) 395-5539. www.hawkscay.com
Faith Jewelers
Jewlery • With 20 years experience in the jewelry industry, Gwen and J.R. Strickland opened Faith Jewelers in 2004. Faith is a family-owned and operated independent jeweler in Jacksonville committed to offering the highest quality diamond and gemstone fine jewelry at the best value. Hosting an extensive in-store jewelry collection, expert advice from our knowledgeable staff, a commitment to honesty and integrity, and an enjoyable atmosphere, Faith Jewelers would love to help you find the perfect gift to make your next special occasion sparkle. • 1165 Edgewood Ave. S., Jacksonville (904) 388-3340. www.faithjewelersinc.com
Bellezza Salon and Boutique
Hair & Make Up • Bellezza, meaning “Beautiful” in Italian, is an upscale full service hair salon and boutique located in Ponte Vedra Beach. The salon combines unparalleled customer service, attention to detail, and the most advanced hair care products available. The salon is staffed with experienced and dedicated professionals who are eager to share their artistic talents with clients. • 330 A1A N. Suite 307. Ponte Vedra Beach (904) 280-4247 www.bellezzasalonandboutique.com
Dr. Barton, Powerful Smiles Dentistry
Teeth Whitening (Bride & Groom) • Powerful Smiles Dentistry believes healthy teeth are not a separate component of good health, but an integral part of the whole. Their focus is whole health aesthetic dentistry using a neuromuscular approach. The result for each of their unique guests is a healthy, natural-looking smile with correct form and function. • 4152 Baymeadows Rd., Baymeadows (904) 733-9144. www.powerfulsmiles.com
Ellie Bing
Vintage Necklaces • Located in Jacksonville Beach, Ellie Bing Jewelry has built its reputation as a unique shop offering jewelry, both current and vintage, designer handbags, hair accessories as well as stationary items. The shop has recently expanded to better serve its clients, savvy shoppers who come from across the city to discover items found only at Ellie Bing. • 21 S. 12th St., Jacksonville Beach (904) 249-6444
Bella Bridesmaid
20% off Bridesmaids Dresses & Rehersal Dinner Dress for the Bride •
Bella Bridesmaid has enjoyed great success due to its unique dresses, cozy boutiques and knowledgeable, friendly bridal experts. Bella Bridesmaid offers fun and innovative accessories that make great bridesmaid gifts- a monogrammed bag company, satin-edged pashminas and customizabl e jewelry, attending to every fine detail that finishes off the elegant look of a bridesmaid dress. Realizing the important role of a bridesmaid dress, Bella Bridesmaid provides each bride with personalized attention in a one-on-one environment surrounded by the latest designer bridesmaid dresses. In addition to the rehearsal brunch dress for the bride, Bella is giving a 20 percent discount off all bridesmaids’ dresses for the Wedding Giveaway party. • 1626 Hendricks Ave. Jacksonville, (904) 374-0351. www.bellabridesmaid.com
Destination Planning
Wedding Planning Services • Destination Planning Corporation is the Southeast region’s premier destination management company, providing flexible, tailored services to corporations, national and state associations, government agencies, charitable organizations, private organizations,
professional societies, and wedding clients. They create and deliver innovative and extraordinary events, activities, tours, and transportation services for their clients. • 3161-1 St Johns Bluff Rd., S., Southside (904) 249-3729. www.destinationplanning.com
Sawgrass Country Club
Bridesmaid Luncheon • Sawgrass Country Club is the premier private country club of Northeast Coastal Florida, located just 30 minutes north of historic St. Augustine and an equally short drive to Downtown Jacksonville. The Club pampers guests and members with all the features of a multi-star, ocean-front resort, including 27 holes of tour-proven, championship golf; a world-class racquet club; a beautiful uncrowded beach fronting our $7-million beach club. You’ll enjoy casual, fine dining, and luxurious banquet venues at the golf club, beach club, ocean-front deck and pavilion, and a fully equipped fitness/wellness center. • 10034 Golf Club Dr.Ponte Vedra Beach (904) 273 3708. www.SawGrassCountryClub.com
Marsh Creek Country Club
Groom’s Golf Package • Marsh Creek boasts one of Northeast Florida’s golf courses, a 18-hole layout designed by PGA Tour great Mark McCumber. The fairways border the natural marshland and the entire property teems with wildlife, from bald eagles to bobcats. The course was renovated in 2005, and the greens are superb. The club also features 10 Har-Tru clay tennis courts and an outstanding clubhouse and dining facilities. Marsh Creek takes pride in having over 20 years of experience and the ability to accommodate weddings of any size or budget. The staff is ready to serve in any way they can. 169 Marshside Dr., St. Augustine (904) 461-1101. www.marshcreek.com
The Reef Restaurant
Rehearsal Brunch for 30 • The Reef opened in 2002. Since that time the restaurant has worked hard to produce fine food and beverages, professionally served, all accompanied by unsurpassed views of the magnificent Atlantic Ocean. It has steadily built a reputation as one of the most popular dining destinations in St. Augustine. A spectacular oceanfront venue, The Reef offers facilities for both beach ceremonies and receptions for up to 100 people. Dine in the private Ocean’s Edge banquet room with a bar, dance floor, two covered balconies and ample free parking. 4100 Coastal Hwy., St. Augustine (904) 824-8008. TheReefStAugustine.com
McGee Entertainment
DJ Services • A wedding reception is a joyous occasion filled with romance, fun, friends and family. McGee Entertainment professional mobile disc jockey service has been operating in Jacksonville since 2001. McGee is a member of the America Disc Jockey Association and the company’s mission is to provide quality, dependable and affordable disc jockey services to customers in Northeast Florida and South Georgia. McGee is built on a foundation of quality, experience and client satisfaction. The company is dedicated to meeting and exceeding client expectations at any special event, particularly wedding receptions. (904) 744-3535. McGeeEntertainment.com
The Write Touch
Invitations • The Write Touch is a San Marco Square landmark, serving loyal customers in search of fine invitations and stationary, books and pens, leather goods, briefcases, desk accessories and gifts. Among the many leading brands it carries are Vera Wang, Johnston & Murphy, Kate Spade, Bosca, Crane & Co. and Filofax. The shop specializes in personal service, including seeking out rare and hard-to-find gifts. It’s selection of fine invitations and stationary is second to none. • 1967 San Marco Blvd., San Marco (904) 398-2009. www.thewritetouch.com
Palm Tree Studios
Photography Services • Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime memory, full of moments that you will want to cherish for years to come. Palm Tree was founded by Laura and Steve Janowicz. The couple started shooting professionally in the mid-90s. Both are credentialed as photo journalists and have had the privilege to photograph a variety of artists and celebrities. Published on a national and international level, Steve and Laura’s photos are sought after by professional publicity houses and the general public. Palm Tree is 100 percent digital, meaning that in addition to capture images in the camera, hours are spent in the studio refining every photo. 1524 CR 220, Suite 4, Fleming Island (904) 688-0550. PalmTreeStudios.com
Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery
Bride’s Cosmetics Package • Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery is the premier cosmetic surgery center in Northeast Florida. The goal at PVPS is to provide patients with the highest quality care in a respectful and discreet manner. The cosmetic surgery specialists and staff are dedicated to providing the most advanced procedures in a state-of-the-art, state-licensed ambulatory surgery center. PVPS surgeons are all members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and offer only the finest in med spa, cosmetic and facial rejuvenation services, including Botox treatments, chemical peel, dermabrasion, Restylane, permanent hair reduction and more. In fact, the staff is committed to the total care of the client. In addition to surgeons, the staff includes an aesthetician, a skin care specialist who offers complete skin care as well as make-up recommendations. (904) 273-6200. PVPS.com
Wehner Weddings
String Quartet for the Ceremony and Cocktails • Kyle Wehner has played the violin and viola for more than 25 years. A graduate of the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Kyle returned to his home town of Orange Park to run the family business. Wehner’s School of the Arts is a music and dance school serving over 700 students per week. In addition to teaching the violin and running the school, Kyle performs frequently with ensembles including the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra and the Coastal Symphony of Georgia. Other highlights include performances with Aretha Franklin, Michael W. Smith and the Broadway tours of Annie, The Lion King and Chicago. He leads his quartet in a presentation of elegant music during both the ceremony and following for the reception, two hours in all and a $1,400 value. • 515 College Dr., Doctors Inlet (904) 502-4426. www.wehnerweddings.com
Registration for the 2012 Great Wedding Giveaway is now closed.
Requirements for Application
To Enter
Thank you for your interest in Jacksonville Magazine’s 2012 Great Wedding Giveaway. All questions on the application form must be answered in their entirety in order for your application to be accepted. The last day to submit an application is November 15, 2011.
Entertain us and convince us that you are the right couple
In addition to the application, we are asking couples to create a short video to tell us why they are the most qualified couple to receive this amazing wedding giveaway! Note: Videos are not absolutely necessary for entry. However, we expect more than 100 entries. Every little bit extra will help your chances. If you do decide to produce a video, we ask that it be at least 3 minutes in length, but must not exceed 5 minutes in length. No entries will be accepted after 5 PM on November 15, 2011. Acceptable video format: Mini-DV or DVD only. Please note that your video will not be returned.
Please note:
Along with your video, please include a still photo of the two of you along with complete contact information. Jacksonville Magazine takes no responsibility for submissions that may become lost in the mail. For questions regarding video submissions, please contact Mike Romero at (904) 389-3622.
By submitting your application for the destination giveaway, you are agreeing to receive materials, e-mails and phone calls from Jacksonville Magazine regarding the promotion. You further agree to be featured on any and all of our websites in promotions related to this event and any other Jacksonville Magazine initiatives. Please note that your video may be posted on News4Jax.com, YouTube and/or other on-line video hosting sites as deemed appropriate by Jacksonville Magazine.
Mailing Instructions
Send your video, photo and complete contact information to:
Jacksonville Magazine’s Great Wedding Giveaway
Attn: Mike Romero
1261 King St.
Jacksonville, FL 32204
Eligibility Criteria
Each individual must be available for an interview, either by phone or in person. Each individual must be of good moral character and have never been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor (other than moving violations that did not involve personal injury, drugs or alcohol). He or she must have nothing in their background that, at the sole discretion of Jacksonville Magazine, could be considered detrimental to the publication and its partners and the success of this promotion. Neither of the individuals may be an elected official or currently running for any political office (local, state or federal).
Each applicant must be willing to undergo a background check conducted by Jacksonville Magazine and be willing to sign waiver forms authorizing the release of personal and background information.
This opportunity is open to currently engaged couples who are legal residents of the US, each of whom is at least 21 years old and each of whom complies with all requirements set forth in these rules. Couples must be engaged prior to registration.
Each applicant must be willing to have his or her wedding ceremony performed at the venue selected by Jacksonville Magazine, and at the magazine’s sole discretion, including, without limitation, an outdoor wedding. Each applicant must be willing to sign an affidavit attesting to the truth of the facts in the application form and video and attesting that each applicant meets all the eligibility requirements.
Selected applicants must also be willing to undertake the following:
• To be interviewed by Jacksonville Magazine and a selected local TV station, and to either appear in a videotape produced by Jacksonville Magazine or to submit a videotape in which the applicants or couple appears;
• To make themselves available to attend fittings and to engage in public appearances and in photo shoots, as requested by Jacksonville Magazine;
• Applicants must agree that, if selected as the wedding couple, they will be married at Serenata Beach Club in late May of 2012. The date is subject to change at the sole discretion of Jacksonville Magazine.
Applicants must agree, if they are among the preliminary group of couples identified (see Selection Process below) to make themselves available to Jacksonville Magazine for publicity and promotion, and must agree that they will not allow interviews by other media outlets, including television, magazines, newspapers, radio, and internet, unless authorized by Jacksonville Magazine from the time the four finalists are announced, through the final on-air appearance of the wedding couple.
If at any point during the contest Jacksonville Magazine deems an applicant or finalist couple ineligible, Jacksonville Magazine, at its sole discretion, may disqualify that couple and select an alternate.
Selection Process
Jacksonville Magazine at its sole discretion will select a preliminary group of couples from eligible entries (completed application form plus video) submitted. Jacksonville Magazine will begin reviewing entries on a rolling basis as they are received, and will end the selection process when a preliminary group of qualified couples has been chosen.
Selection criteria used by the judges shall include:
• The couple’s video and application materials;
• The personality of each entrant, individually and as a couple;
• The demonstrated strength of couple’s commitment;
• The nature of the couple’s history and background (how each couple met, became engaged, how long they have been engaged, the relationship of the couple with family members and friends, and any other factors that make the couple’s story unique or compelling);
• The appearance of the couple, both individually and as a couple.
From the preliminary group of couples, Jacksonville Magazine will then select up to twenty semifinalist couples, based on these factors above, plus telephone interviews with the couples. These semifinalist couples will be required as a condition of continued eligibility to complete and sign an Affidavit of Eligibility, Waiver of Liability and Publicity Release in the form attached to these Rules.
The semifinalist couples thus selected will be interviewed by Jacksonville Magazine and may be asked to participate in the filming of a videotaped interview by representatives of Jacksonville Magazine.
The semifinalist couples will also be subject to background checks to verify and determine additional information about each of the individuals.
Based on Jacksonville Magazine’s interviews, the videos, the background checks and the selection criteria noted above, the finalist couples will be selected by representatives of Jacksonville Magazine, at its sole discretion. Jacksonville Magazine, at its sole discretion, may utilize guest judges and may grant immunity to certain couples.
Pictures of the finalist couples, and a brief synopsis prepared by Jacksonville Magazine regarding each of the couples and their performance in the Jacksonville Magazine competitions will be placed on Jacksonville Magazine-related websites.
If the wedding couple is disqualified or otherwise unable to fulfill the requirements asked of them, a second couple from among the finalist couples, selected by Jacksonville Magazine, may receive the wedding.
Wedding
Couple must agree that elements of the wedding will be determined by Jacksonville Magazine, including but not limited to, wedding planner, rehearsal dinner, wedding site, ceremony, reception and catering, accommodations, florist, photographer and videographer.
Couples are agreeing to legally wed; if your religion does not permit this, please do not apply. Couples are responsible for completing licensing requirements for Duval County, Florida.
Please note: Giveaway package is for a total of one hundred (100) persons, including the bride and groom. There may be an opportunity for the couple to pay for additional persons.
Disqualification
Couples may be disqualified by not complying with these rules or their inability to fulfill all of the requirements. If the winning couple is disqualified, they will become ineligible and the runner-up will take their place.
MULTIPLE ENTRIES RECEIVED FROM ANY PERSONS WILL VOID ALL ADDITIONAL ENTRIES. Entries that are incomplete, illegible, postage due or corrupted are void and will not be accepted. If any entrant becomes ineligible during the contest, he or she may be disqualified.
All entries, including application forms and photos, become the property of Jacksonville Magazine and will not be acknowledged or returned.
Disclaimer
Jacksonville Magazine is not responsible for telecommunications, network, electronic, technical or computer failures of any kind, for inaccurate transcription of entry information, for errors in any promotional or marketing materials, for errors in these rules, for any human or electronic error, including but not limited to the administration of this Event or Prizes, or for entries that are stolen, misdirected, garbled, delayed by computer transmissions, lost, late, damaged, or postage due.
Jacksonville Magazine and its partners are not responsible for any injuries or damages caused or claimed to be caused in the event and will not assume any liability. Jacksonville Magazine is not responsible for entries lost in the mail.
Note: Like all contest prizes, this wedding package is considered taxable income by the IRS. By accepting the prize, all taxes owed become the responsibility of the winning couple.
Past Winners
2011 Great Wedding winners Katherine & Kevin. The couple married June 6, 2011, and were treated to a honeymoon vacation at the Boca Raton Resort & Club.
2010 Great Wedding winners Sareh and Zac. The couple wed June 14, 2010, and enjoyed a week’s honeymoon stay at the Casa Marina Resort in Key West.
2009 Great Wedding winners Nita and Ian. The two married June , 2009, and spent a week at the Ocean Club Resorts in the Turks & Caicos Islands.