Another Review at MyShelf.Com

Publisher: Perrenial Currents
Release Date: November 1, 2004
ISBN: 0060726199
Awards:  
Format Reviewed: Paperback
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Genre: Nonfiction / Celebrity 
Reviewed: 2004
Reviewer: Lynda E. Lukow
Reviewer Notes:  
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Las Vegas Weddings
A Brief History, Celebrity Gossip, Everything Elvis and the Complete Chapel Guide  
By Susan Marg

    Las Vegas Weddings begins with a well-researched history of the oasis’ discovery in 1826 and its founding as a city in 1905. The city has survived the loss of the initial railroad boon, the short-term windfall that accompanied Hoover dam’s construction, mobsters, and nuclear testing to become the marriage capital of the world.

   If history isn’t your thing, the second section contains more than 90 pages packed with the low-down on celebrity weddings. From William Boyd’s nuptials (before his Hopalong Cassidy days) to Britney Spears’ quickly annulled vows, Ms. Marg doesn’t miss a beat.

    One can’t mention Las Vegas without thinking of Elvis Presley. Part three gives readers a glimpse at his television appearances, movies and Vegas shows. Included in this section is a diary of a day at the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel, where owner Ron Carr’s Elvis impersonation is in high demand. The ceremonies he performs are both touching and fun!

     Thinking of eloping? Part four includes a comprehensive guide to wedding chapels. From “Funky and Fanciful” to “Fancy Schmancy”, prospective newlyweds can research everything about where to hold the ceremony and how to apply for the marriage license. Separate accounts of each facility contain basic information such as each chapel’s name, location, hours, website and fees (subject to change). More importantly, the author gives vivid descriptions of the atmosphere and available wedding packages.

     This fast-paced, fun-filled guide has something for everyone. I’m not a geographical history buff, but I thoroughly enjoyed the fifty or so accounts of celebrity weddings. The section on chapels surprised me; I had believed elopements romantic, but cheesy until I read about the caring people involved in the marriage industry and the beautiful packages available, many at reasonable prices. Roll the dice with this one, folks. You’re bound to come out a winner!