London . St. Thomas . Sarnia . Chatham . Windsor . Essex
This year’s Winners
Brittany Jillianne Gillian
Win for 2 a trip
and become one of our next cover brides
trips sponsored by
www.retrosuites.com
enter our online
Cover Bride
contest
Every year Bridal Confidential holds an online Cover Bride Contest where the winners receive an all inclusive trip for two and appear on our cover. This year’s contest is now open, and closes on April 29, 2016.
who is eligible? All future brides of 2016 and 2017 who are from the London/St. Thomas, Sarnia/Chatham or Windsor/Essex areas are now eligible.
how many winners? There will be three Grand Prize Winners - one from each area. There will also be a second place, third place and so on... See last year’s prizes on pages 18, 80 & 158.
what do you win? Each of our three Cover Brides wins an all-inclusive trip for two, and enjoys two glorious days of pampering on their photo shoot days. One photo shoot day is for the magazine cover and is shared by all three winners; the other photo shoot day is for the inside cover for their area, and features the bride and her fiancé.
how do you enter? Register with us at www.bridalconfidential.com. E-mail an everyday photo (or engagement photo) of yourself and your fiancé along with your full names, date of marriage, and your complete mailing address to lynda@ bridalconfidential.com. When we receive your photo and information we will mail you a contestants package with contest details and forms. Your photo and information will be posted on our website’s contest page and on our Facebook page.
how do you win?
Win
an a l l-i n c lu s i v e
Trip For 2 and become one of our next cover brides!
2
Winners are determined by the number of votes. Votes include Facebook likes and Bonus Votes. The brides-to-be with the most votes (likes) plus Bonus Votes wins.
how to get bonus votes? Details on how to receive Bonus Votes are on page 5.
Trips Sponsored by
Your Wedding at Highland Highland Country Club’s Grand Highland Hall offers guests a breathtaking view of our immaculately kept golf course. From our peaceful surroundings to the attention to detail, every event we host is unique. From the moment you book your wedding at Highland Country Club, we’ll work side by side with you to personalize every detail of your reception.
From setting the right mood to selecting the right menu, every decision will be catered to your personality and style. Highland Country Club offers a variety of menu options, from formal dinner receptions to intimate champagne brunches. You can choose from our extensive list of exquisite, yet affordable entrées to custom design a menu that suits your needs.
your choice of exquisite menus prepared by our executive chef de cuisine up to 180 guests . full set up and take down . experienced service staff . set up of special event tables white table linen, fine china and silver cutlery . use of the grounds and clubhouse for photography black grand piano with “player piano” option . wood dance floor . host or cash bar available podium with microphone and in-house sound system . complimentary parking
1922 Highland Heights, London . 519-681-8223 ext. 226 karen@highlandcountryclub.com . www.highlandcountryclub.com
on our website
2 exciting contests
everything
for your wedding magazine online
Our latest magazine is featured on our website! Gain easy access to all your local wedding providers, the latest bridal fashions, planning tips, fun facts, and much more, simply by browsing our magazine online.
Bridal Directory
A complete listing of wedding-related businesses in your area with contact information and links to their websites.
cover bride contest brides of 2016 & 2017 are now eligible you could Appear on our next cover and Win an all-inclusive trip for Two Sponsored by Transat Holidays & Marlin Travel Sarnia
Winners are determined by the number of likes on our Facebook page plus Bonus Votes. See next page for details. Mrs. september 2014
Gallery Check out videos and photos of our contest winners, wedding events, and cover shoot days.
free copy
View a map of wedding-related businesses in your area, where you can pick up your free copy of Bridal Confidential. Magazines are also available at bridal shows. See page 10.
news & events
Stay current with our contest updates and the latest news and events from your area!
social media Bride of the Month
You can find us on Facebook where we post upcoming bridal shows, and host our Cover Bride Contest. You can also find us on Pinterest, YouTube, and Twitter @BridalMag.
brides of 2015 are now eligible Be featured in our next issue.
w w w. b r i d a l c o n f i d e n t i a l . c o m 4
two ways to get
bonus votes for our online
cover bride contest
1
You can receive Bonus Votes by booking/ purchasing from any business on our website or in this magazine. In the contestant’s package, that we mail to you, there will be forms that you will need to have signed by each business that you book with or purchase from. This allows you to keep track of your Bonus Votes and gives us a confirmation of who you booked with and how many Bonus Votes you will receive. There will be a form for every service that you need. Some businesses offer multiple services so be sure to bring in the forms that will apply to all of their services.
2
Attend any of our qualifying Bridal Shows and receive 100 Bonus Votes per show attended. Contestants must come to the Bridal Confidential booth and fill out a ballot to receive their Bonus Votes for attending, and to enter a draw for an additional 200 Bonus Votes.
All confirmed Bonus Votes that you acquire from your bookings and attending bridal shows will appear beside your name on our website’s contest page and your likes will be displayed under your photo on our Facebook page. At the end of the contest, your Bonus Votes and your likes will be added together to give your total vote count. The winner is determined by the total number of Bonus Votes plus likes.
get likes on our facebook page Starting September 15, 2015 your photo will also be added to our Facebook contest page. Get your friends and family to ‘like’ your photo and each like will be the considered one vote. The maximum number of likes that can be applied as votes is 500.
See Terms & Conditions at www.bridalconfidential.com
attend any of these
bridal shows and receive 100 bonus votes The Fall Wedding Event September 16th & 17th, 2015 Caboto Cub of Windsor 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm each evening London bridal expo 2015 September 26th & 27th, 2015 Western Fair District Canada Building London 11:00 am to 5:00 pm daily True Fantasies Fall Bridal Expo Friday, October 23th, 2015 Holiday Inn Point Edward 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm London Bridal Expo 2016 January 9th & 10th, 2016 Western Fair District Agriplex Building London 11:00 am to 5:00 pm daily Wedding Extravaganza 2016 January 16th & 17th, 2016 Caboto Club of Windsor 10:00 am to 5:00 pm each day chatham kent Wedding Show Saturday, January 23, 2016 Bradley Convention Centre 11:00 am to 6:00 pm True Fantasies Bridal Expo Friday, February 26th, 2016 Holiday Inn Point Edward 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm
at each show there will be a draw for an additional 200 bonus votes 5
enter our online
Bride of the
Month contest 2015 Brides from London/St. Thomas, Sarnia/Chatham & Windsor/Essex are eligible
Mrs. april 2014
Mai Memories Photography
To enter
email your wedding photo (bride only), full name, date of marriage, area you are from and the name of your photographer to lynda@bridalconfidential.com. Contest begins September 15, 2015 and ends June 1, 2016. There will be one winner for each month featured in our 2016 issue. Winners are determined by the number of votes. For details on how to enter visit
www.bridalconfidential.com
6
We may not know when and where the first wedding was held, but one thing is certain, it was an important turning point in human civilization. Whether our society is faced with absolute turmoil or an economic downfall, whether we’re in a period of emotional stress or painful mourning; through thick and thin, weddings bring family and friends together in a positive and joyous occasion. Bridal Confidential believes that weddings, along with the preparation, are an unprecedented and unforgettable time in every couple’s long journey together; and we strive to bring joy and happiness to the lives of local brides and grooms. Being engaged is a special moment in your life – let it sink in, and share this wonderful moment with the people you care most about. Congratulations to our three Cover Brides, who won our second online Cover Bride Contest. They attained the highest number of votes through the help of their family and friends via Facebook. They also received Bonus Votes by purchasing their wedding-related products and services from wedding professionals featured in our magazine and on our website. Along with gracing the cover of this magazine, our Cover Brides also won an allinclusive trip for two and received two full days of pampering on their cover shoot days. Brides of 2016 and 2017 are now eligible to enter the next Cover Bride Contest. Visit our website for more details. We are proud to produce the fifteenth edition of Bridal Confidential magazine. With a diverse selection of local wedding providers from London/ Middlesex, St. Thomas/Elgin, Sarnia/Lambton, Chatham-Kent and Windsor/Essex, we hope our bridal directory will help guide you towards your dream wedding. As a community-oriented business, Bridal Confidential is blessed to have the support from local businesses and couples that share our passion of weddings – and we want to thank you all for the incredible support over the past ten years. Bridal Confidential wishes you a lifetime of health, happiness and unmatched love. And remember, “Success in marriage does not come merely through finding the right mate, but through being the right mate.” Now join hands, and with your hands your hearts...
Est. 1948
Bridal Specialists for
68
years!
known for our huge selection!
London
517 York Street 519-433-2865
Kitchener
1780 King Street East 519-745-8545 Mori Lee by Madeline Gardner
Windsor
5970 Tecumseh Rd., East 519-974-3681
Mississauga
2200 Dundas Street East
905-270-6200
www.sophiesgownshoppe.com
for your convenience...
on the cover
London/St. Thomas
page
our magazine is presented in three sections
15
Cover Winners Brittany & Nick
Sarnia/Chatham
page
Cover Sponsors Photographer: Erwin Loewen Photographer Gown: Sophie’s gown Shoppe Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hairstyle: Side Street Salon Makeup: N U Hair & Make up studio Gift Basket: Steel Grill Catering Limousine: A Universal Limousine Videographer: Through the Lens Productions Dinner for Two: Blackfriars Bistro & Catering Overnight Stay: Hampton Inn by Hilton
77
Cover Winners Gillian & Trevor Cover Sponsors photographer/Videographer: LC Productions Gown: Once Upon A Time Weddings Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hairstyle: The Rooted Bohemian Makeup: THE Glass & Pillar Spa Manicure: Adora Spa Bouquet: LaPier’s Flowers & Gifts Gift Basket: the quality inn Sarnia Limousine: Penguin Limousine Dinner for Two: Limbo Lunch lounge Overnight Stay: Holiday Inn Point Edward
155
page
Windsor /Essex
Cover Winners Jillianne & Jacques Cover Sponsors Photographer: Chalet Studio Photography Gown: It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hairstyle: Salon Attitude Makeup: Beautiful Images Limousine: Limos by Mr. J’s Videographer: Live-tech videography Dinner for Two: mezzo ristorante Gift Basket: Vanessa’s Bakery & Deli Overnight Stay: hampton INN & suites BY HILTON 8
Photographer:
chalet studio www.chaletstudio.ca LONDON/ST. THOMAS WINNER Brittany Bennett Gown: Sophie’s Gown Shoppe Hairstylist: Side Street Salon Makeup: Beautiful Images Sarnia/Chatham WINNER: Gillian Sherwood Gown: Once Upon A Time Weddings Hairstylist: The Rooted Bohemian Makeup: Beautiful Images Windsor/Essex WINNER: Jillianne McGonigal Gown: It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique Hairstylist: Salon Attitude Makeup: Beautiful Images A special thanks to Ambassador Golf Limo’s by Mr. J’s Live-Tech Photography & Videography Owners: Lynda Cameron & Christine Cameron Editor & Marketing Manager: Jay Cameron Assistant Editor: Sarah Cameron Sales Director: Isabel Traher Graphic Design/Layout: Ann Conroy Annual Publication: 2015 - 2016 Issue 15th Edition Published by: Bridal Confidential Ltd. Box 787, Brights Grove, ON N0N 1C0 1-888-869-8281 bridal@cogeco.ca www.bridalconfidential.com We accept no responsibility for advertiser’s claims, omissions or errors. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.
Appear on our next cover and win a trip for two. See page 2.
Exclusive Luxury Brands
LONDON: 551 York St. Head Office & Superstore 519-672-6210 SARNIA: 746 Exmouth St. Across from Tim Hortons 519-336-3114 CHATHAM: 10 King St. W. Behind Enchantment Bridal 519-351-9484 Locations across Ontario . 1-866-784-6210 . www.budgowan.com BudGowan.com
features
content
cover bride contest winners
2
Online Cover Bride Contest
4
On Our Website
5
Two Ways to Get Bonus Votes
6
Bride of the Month Contest
6
Editor’s Note
18
London/St. Thomas Winners
80
Sarnia/Chatham Winners
158 Windsor/Essex Winners
photo shoot stories
141 Local Fashions
16
London/St. Thomas Winner’s Photo Shoot
160 Bride of the Month Winners
78
Sarnia/Chatham Winner’s Photo Shoot
164 Cover Shoot Photos
156 Windsor/Essex Winner’s Photo Shoot
230 Service Directory
2o14 winners’ trip
articles
71 London/St. Thomas Winner 151 Sarnia/Chatham Winner 225 Windsor/Essex Winner
41
The Four Factors - Once Upon A Time Weddings
48
Readings - Melissa Taylor, Simple Blessings
94
One Stop Shopping for All of Your Wedding & Reception Needs -The Imperial Theatre
99
Every Girl Deserves A Fascinator - Carolyn’s Creations
115 Stress Relief - Calm n’ Scents 118 Say I Do to Filing your Taxes - Canada Revenue Agency 162 Your Beautiful Wedding Day - Caesars Windsor 168 Tricks and Tips - Booking Your Hotel Sunray Group of Hotels 172 Ordering Your Wedding Cake - Renée’s Fine Cakes Blush Photography
190 Get Married in Windsor Essex - Nancy Campana, Nouveau Event Planning/Wedding Shows Windsor 199 The Power of Lighting Adam Marz (Celebrity lighting designer)
engagement stories
201 The Finishing Touch - James A. Fancsy, I&F Designs
20 Candice & Andriano 82 Amber & Mike 166 Marta & Andrew
212 214
bridal shows
220 The Perfect Caterer - Filip Rocca, Mezzo Ristorante
21 83 131 167 10
London Bridal Expo 2016 True Fantasies Bridal Expos Chatham Kent Wedding Shows Wedding Shows Windsor
A New Chapter - Joel Beneteau, Williams Food Equipment Finding A Great Wedding Photographer Janet & Alan Arsenault, Chalet Studio
228 The Perfect Vineyard - Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery
throughout hints - tips - local weddings
never missed a wedding in 22 years!
GRANDEURlimousine Stretch your imagination with us!
The only stretched cadillac escalade in South Western Ontario
519-453-7307 . 1-877-246-2844 . grandeurlimousine.com
www.transatholidays.com
www.rebeccanashphotography.com
Gown: Sophie’s gown shoppe Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hair: side street salon Makeup: n u hair & make up studio
london . st. thomas
Brittany & Nick
LONDON/ST. THOMAS 2015 Cover bride contest Winners
Brittany & Nick My photo shoot day
by Brittany Bennett
I cannot believe Nick and I are the winners of the Bridal Confidential Cover Bride Contest for London/St. Thomas of 2015! We would like to thank all of our family and friends who helped make our dream come true by voting and spreading the word about the contest. None of this would have been possible without you and we cannot thank you all enough! We are so grateful and extremely excited for this opportunity! Exactly 3 years to the day that Nick and I became an official couple, we had our photo shoot for Bridal Confidential magazine. We were so excited and couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate our love. Through the Lens Productions started off our day when they came knocking on our front door. Nick and I were a little camera shy at first, but they did a great job making us feel relaxed and comfortable in front of the cameras. We had so much fun spending the day with them and we are so grateful that they captured the entire day for us! Steve from A Universal Limousine arrived to pick us up in a limo bus. Steve looked very professional in his tuxedo and was extremely friendly. He provided us with top class service and made us feel special the entire day! Our first stop of the day was to Blackfriars Catering & Bistro where we picked up a gift certificate for dinner for two. We are really looking forward to having a night out soon where we can relax and not have to cook dinner. Next we headed to Collins Formal Wear where Nick was “suited up” in a tuxedo. Paul helped put the finishing touches together to make Nick look like the most handsome “groom” I had ever seen! Following the tuxedo fitting we headed to Steel Grill where we were given a delicious lunch basket filled with sandwiches, cookies, and other delicious treats! Then we headed to Side Street Salon to start my transformation into a “bride”. I absolutely loved my bridal hairstyle and everyone at Side Street Salon went above and beyond to make our experience very positive and a lot of fun.
Next I needed to get my makeup done so we went to N U Hair & Make Up Studio. From the minute we walked in the door we felt very welcomed. They did such a gorgeous job on my makeup and I was starting to look more like a bride! The next stop was to Sophies Gown Shoppe’s to get me ready for the photo shoot. I put on a gorgeous mermaid style wedding dress. Marlene helped get me ready and added earrings, a veil, headpiece and bracelet for the final touches! It was so much fun to see Nick’s face when I walked out of the dressing room in a wedding dress! Erwin Loewen, our photographer for the day met us at Sophies where he began to snap a few pictures. Our last stop was Hampton Inn by Hilton where we were presented with a Gift Certificate for an Overnight Stay for Two. This will add the finishing touch to our night on the town with dinner at Blackfriars. We all got back into the limo and headed to UWO to start the photo shoot. Erwin had many creative ideas and made the photo shoot very enjoyable with lots of laughs. We were shown a few of the pictures on his camera and cannot wait to see the rest! The whole day from start to finish was absolutely amazing! Nick and I feel so lucky to have had this experience and it was a day we will never forget. We would like to give a huge thank you to Bridal Confidential for this amazing once in a lifetime opportunity! Thank you to all of the sponsors and vendors for their gifts, contributions and time they all gave in making the day so special and unforgettable! We cannot express how grateful we are. Thank you to Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia for our honeymoon to Melia Peninsula Varadero Elegance Club in Varadero Cuba. We are looking forward to relaxing in the sun and celebrating being married!
photo shoot sponsors All Inclusive Trip for Two: Transat Holidays & Marlin Travel Sarnia Photographer: Erwin Loewen Photographer Videographer: through the lens Productions Gown: Sophie’s gown shoppe Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hair: Side Street Salon 16
Makeup: N u Hair & Make up STUDIO Limousine: A UNIVERSAL LIMOUSINE SERVICE Gift Basket: STEEL GRILL CATERING Dinner for Two: BLACKFRIARS CATERING & BISTRO Overnight Stay for Two: hAMPTON INN BY HILTON
Thank you to all our generous sponsors! See more photos and video at www.bridalconfidential.com
www.transatholidays.com
London/St. Thomas
2015
cover bride contest winners
2nd
Abby Mohamed
Overnight Stay for Two at Station Park All Suites Hotel
3rd
1
st place winner
Shadya Abdulrahim Overnight Stay for Two at Benmiller Inn & Spa
4th
Brittany Bennett Brittany won an all-inclusive Trip for Two sponsored by Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia. Brittany also appears on our cover, and enjoyed two full days of pampering. Read Brittany’s story on page 16. 18
Lindsay Klassen
Overnight Stay at Delta London Armouries
6th
5th
Pamela Gill
$50.00 Gift Certificate from Bud Gowan Formal Wear
7th
Lisa Henderson
Two Personalized Hangers – one for the bride and one for the groom from Touch of Heart
10th
9th
8th
Katie Abbott
Overnight Stay for Two at Courtyard by Marriott
11th
Kristen Martin
Overnight Stay for Two at Homewood Suites by Hilton
Deborah Woodbridge
Wash, Cut & Blow Dry and a Free Consultation from Scizzorhands
Allison Harkes $100 Gift Certificate from Music Central
Congratulations
12th
to all our winners
Thank you
to all who entered
special thanks to our sponsors
details on our next Cover Bride Contest www.bridalconfidential.com Rebekah Carter
$50 Gift Certificate from Blackfriars Catering & Bistro
Meghan James
Six Month Gym Membership for Two from The Berkshire Club 19
engagement story
Candice & Adriano
When my fiancé Adriano and I first met I knew he was the one. He gave me a promise ring for our first Christmas together and I knew he felt the same way. His original idea, as he recently told me, was to slip the engagement ring in my drink but his mind raced and thought what would happen if she drank the ring down. It wasn’t until almost a year and a half later, that he found the right moment. The best part was that it was spontaneous. We were playing golf and he had the ring. His plan was to propose that night, however I was having a bad game. It all came together when I said, “I wish I was better at golf”, and he replied, “I wish you were my wife.” I replied, “One day.” I didn’t have a clue. Adri then said, “How about now?”. Then it happened. He proposed to me on the 4th hole at Fire Fox Golf. Best golf game ever! Candice will be participating in our next Cover Bride Contest.
brides of 2016 & 2017 are eligible to
}
enter our online cover bride contest Win a trip for two and be on our next cover
Winners are determined by number of Bonus Votes plus Facebook likes.
Votes 100at Bonus this show
get
london bridal expo 2016 see next page
win
200 Bonus Votes by entering our draw to receive your 100 bonus votes and to enter the draw, Visit Bridal Confidential’s booth
20
Wedding planning made easy at...
2016 Western Fair District Agriplex Building London Saturday. January 9, 2016 Sunday, January 10, 2016 11-5 PM each day
}
Saturday, September 24, 2016 Sunday, September 25, 2016 11-5 PM each day
Exciting Fashion Shows! Saturday 1pm & 3:30pm Sunday 1pm & 3:30pm
receive a free Copy of Wedding Bells Today’s Bride Bridal Confidential
admission $12 (HST incl.)
Free Parking
Win Your Wedding Gown!
Show Organizers: Olga, Jeff & Isabel Traher 519-679-1810
facebook.com/LondonBridalExpo
not losing a son... Because most of the wedding planning falls into the bride’s domain, her mother has a direct line to all that is happening. This may be natural, but it’s unfair. While you and your mother are off checking out venues, the groom and his father have gone to be measured for tuxedos. Where does that leave his mother? She is stuck behind the groom’s side of the fence where all the guy stuff takes place.
Hotel & Suites
a luxurious experience your guests will remember newly renovated full service hotel premium amenities complimentary wi-fi & parking located adjacent to 401 and 402 fitness room & indoor pool
855 Wellington Rd., London . 519-668-7900 ext. 2107 donnita.maxim@whg.com . www.holidayinn.com/londonon
® Make room for a little fun.™ 864 Exeter Rd. London 22 accommodations
|
The wedding planning phase is the perfect time to cement your relationship with your future motherin-law by including her in the gal stuff. Because the groom’s mother is outside the centre of activity, a lot of planning and arranging can take place without her. Keeping your future mother-in-law informed of decisions you have made in her absence, including her in shopping trips, and asking for her input whenever possible will make her feel more inclined to join the ‘gaining a daughter’ school of thought.
banquet facilities for up to 100 . indoor pool . fitness centre perfect location for your wedding night or out of town guests located directly off hwy 401 the bistro: breakfast . drinks . dinner . specialty beverages . starbucks coffee
519-680-0077 Ext. 5307
|
kayla.wrightly@courtyardmarriott-london.ca
|
marriott.com/yxucy
... and eat it too This will be a cake like no other. It has to suit the occasion, accommodate everyone, complement your theme and reflect your personality. That’s a tall order that only a tiered masterpiece can measure up to. Finding just the right cake for your wedding is a collaboration between you, your baker and your budget. Cakes and their designs are so varied it can leave you with more questions than answers. Make your first trip to the baker a successful one by being ready with the info they will need to steer you in the right direction. How many people will the cake be serving, and how much are you planning to spend are the factors that determine the cake’s size and amount of decoration. Armed with this knowledge, your baker will be able to show you some samples that will meet your reality, and fulfill your dreams. For a wedding that’s being held indoors, the cake world is your oyster. With controlled temperatures, you are free to let inspiration reign, and even top it with whipped cream. If the cake will make it’s grand appearance at an outdoor wedding, this is a crucial piece of information for your baker, and different options for you. Another key factor is who will deliver the cake, will they set it up, and will someone be available should it need attention? If your masterpiece will be making its debut on a second floor walk-up, or transported down a long hallway, your baker needs to know this in advance. Scope out the cake’s planned route so your professional won’t be faced with any unpleasant surprises.
Finish your special day off right. ™
Pamper yourself in one of our spacious King Jacuzzi suites.
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The perfect location for your Wedding Night or for out-of-town guests! Mention this ad to receive one night in a Superior King Suite at a special rate of $139.00 per night including bottle of wine, chocolates and breakfast buffet* *Advance reservation required by contacting hotel - ask for Bridal Confidential coupon package. Not available during UWO Homecoming Weekend or New Year’s Eve. Valid until February 28, 2016.
For special guest rates contact 519-963-1665 or sales@stationparkinn.ca Located on Richmond Row 242 Pall Mall St. at Richmond, London 1-800-561-4574 hotel@stationparkinn.ca www.stationparkinn.ca accommodations 23
Every bride deserves a suite that’s as
bigas her day
Stay with us and Be at home.
Hot Breakfast Served Daily Spacious Suites with Fully Equipped Kitchens Swimming Pool
©2012 Hilton Worldwide.
Homewood Suites by Hilton London . 45 Bessemer Rd., London . 519-686-7700 . www.londonontario.homewoodsuites.com
over the top
Cheryl & Rick ~ July 5, 2014 www.lcpcanada.com
“I want a unique wedding.” Five little words that can lead to four little words. “What was I thinking?” Often followed by “That cost a bundle.” The drive to make a wedding as individual and memorable as possible is like a new drug on the wedding scene. Because having a traditional wedding has become entirely optional, brides are free to express themselves in any way they choose, and still come out married in the end. The trick to pulling off a unique wedding that everyone will enjoy and remember, is not to overdo it. A Halloween theme, doesn’t require the couple to be dressed as Draucla and his bride. That’s not unique (if you don’t believe me you haven’t checked online lately). The subtle touches only you can add is what makes a wedding stand out from the others. Every couple aims at making their day a pleasant experience for all their guests, so if you’re having a theme wedding, all the guests have to ‘get it’. Using Halloween as an example, unless everyone on your list is a member of the Bram Stoker Fan Club, coffins and wooden stakes will make the “I don’t get it” guests feel they have been left out of the gory picture. Subtle touches like seating cards with a spider web design, artificial cobweb material around the cake, plastic creepy-crawlies in the centerpieces and pumpkin pie for dessert will convey the message, and won’t leave you looking for a dark place to hide, where creditors can’t find you.
Lindsay & Tim ~ October 25, 2014 www.bvphotos.ca 24 accommodations
By definition, your wedding is already unique. It’s not something you plan to do again, that particular group of guests will never gather in exactly the same way, the moon and stars won’t be in the identical position for all time, and no one will ever say “I do” quite the way you say it.
Award Winning ~ Italian Sweets ~ Pastries ~ Cakes
London's Trendiest Bake Shop boasts highly experienced and professional cake designers, with an extensive background and training in the art of culinary pastries. We offer Top quality service and products made to perfection at a low and affordable price. We work with any budget! We offer the lowest prices in town. Price matching available. No detail is ever left out - we go above and beyond to make your special occasion even sweeter and more memorable. Love and perfection goes into every cake and everything is baked fresh from scratch, onsite. Home-made the Italian way! Traditional recipes and methods, with a modern twist!
316 Oakland Ave. London 519-455-CAKE (2253) www.facebook.com/bellabellanice www.bellabellanice.com
competitive wedding disorder It isn’t mentioned on the Rosetta Stone, there are no carvings in the pyramids, and no trace of it in ancient Greece, but there’s little doubt that Competitive Wedding Disorder (CWD) has been around since the first engagement. After saying “I will”, some prehistoric bride’s next thought must have been “And I will have the best wedding ever”. CWD has been nearly dormant for millennia, waiting for mass communication to bombard us with celebrity weddings, battling bride comedies, and TV competitions that weaken our resistance, and make us believe that if we don’t compete, we don’t know how to play. It’s the adult version of “My tricycle is nicer than your tricycle”. How do you know if you have come down with a case of CWD? Trivial things get blown out of proportion. You have a tantrum over similar wedding favours on Pinterest. Your shoes cost more than your car, and your gown would have paid for a two year, fist class, tour of Europe. Once afflicted, things begin to turn you a little green, especially a friend’s fabulous wedding. You leave thinking she raised the bar, so you will have to raise it a little higher. “Let the games begin.” But wait. What are you competing for? You have already won. You have found love, and are about to begin a new and exciting chapter of your life. newly renovated visitor’s centre
~ trillium gallery within
weddings and receptions for up to 200
519-457-1296 bgraham@fanshawepioneervillage.ca www.fanshawepioneervillage.ca
Aside from having to sell the farm to pay for the wedding, losing sight of the purpose behind your wedding is the worst symptom. “Why am I doing all this? “Oh right, I’m getting married.” Tragic! Marriage is about two soulmates coming together for life, and that is the ultimate prize. A truly great wedding requires thought not cash. You can impress people more with what’s in your heart than what’s in your wallet.
just in case? Seating families on opposite sides of the aisle is another in a long line of traditions handed down through the ages, but the reasoning behind it may surprise you. The original purpose for separating the families was... wait for it... to avoid bloodshed. In days of old, the daughter of a chieftain was the ideal bargaining chip for a cease-
fire between warring tribes. When the wedding was little more than an uneasy truce, seating families as far from each other as possible was a strategic move. What do you suppose happened at the reception when they added fuel (alcohol) to the fire?
German Canadian Club
1 Cove Rd. London 519-433-2901 www.germancanadianclublondon.com 26 banquet halls
safety net Modern weddings are a combination of tradition and inspiration. Couples are free to choose which customs they will use, and which will be omitted or replaced. A purely original wedding, that throws customs to the wind, can be fun to plan, a blast to execute, and best of all, no matter how far you stray from the conventional, when in doubt, you always have tradition to fall back on. Not quite sure how to address the invitations, or uncertain where family members should be seated at your off-the-wall reception? Even though you have vowed to make everything entirely unique, there’s still nothing wrong with leaning on the accepted way. Use tradition as your guide line, bend it to suit your tastes, and no one will ever suspect.
Located in South London, just off hwy. 401. Convenient location for out-of-town guests. Complimentary guest parking.
Special group rates for bedrooms. Two unique ballrooms - each accommodating up to 180 dinner guests. Plated and buffet dinner options available. Personalized all-inclusive packages by request. Competitive rates. Professional, caring staff.
817 Exeter Rd., London . 519-681-4900 . 1-800-303-3733 . ramadalondon@gmail.com . www.ramadainnlondon.com
“Through these doors walk the finest people, our guests, our friends�
a haven of historic charm and natural beauty with authentic country inn hospitality ceremonies ~ receptions ~ lodging
81175 Benmiller Road, Goderich Contact Lori Carter 519-524-2191 ext 297 . 1-800-265-1711 dbeach@benmiller.ca . www.benmiller.ca accommodations/banquet halls 27
privacy factor
The Perfect Setting for your Ceremony and Reception.
Rehearsal dinners are frequently held in restaurants, and the person responsible for reservations often overlooks the fact that it’s a public place. Like a wedding, the rehearsal dinner is not open to strangers, and holding the dinner in a venue with some degree of privacy would be prudent. You don’t want strangers listening in on your loving thank you’s, and you don’t want to run the risk of sitting near a group from the Shriners convention.
two large elegant banquet halls
50 to 600 guests catering packages two gazebos on 33 acres of landscaped grounds
I’ll show you
unlimited photo opportunities
true story - supposedly
3375 Gore Road, London (Dorchester) 519-659-2963 www.ukrainacountryclub.com
The couple’s mothers both fell in love with, and purchased, the same dress. Both refused to relinquish their right to wear it to the wedding, and the attempt to resolve the issue brought tensions to a critical mass. It had to come down to which one purchased the dress first. The winner flaunted her victory, irritating the loosing mother even more. To retaliate, the mother who lost, wore her gown to the rehearsal dinner.
A happy marriage is a long conversation which always seems too short.
www.windermeremanor.com
28 banquet halls
Andre Maurois
Nestled in London’s prestigious north end, Ivey Spencer Leadership Centre is Southwestern Ontario’s most exclusive address for your dream wedding.
The elegant Georgian estate blends the historic with modern elegance to create an experience that is at once classic and contemporary.
Spencer is your all-inclusive destination for ceremonies, photos, receptions and accommodations.
TMF Photography
551 Windermere Rd, London 519-679-4546 1-888-678-6926 www.iveyspencerleadershipcentre.com
Married to the idea of having the Perfect Wedding? So are we!
All you need to do is to say “I do� and we will take care of the rest! Whether you have 3 people or 200, we can host every part of your special day. With such a unique venue and personal attention to every detail, we will ensure an event you and your guests will never forget. 325 Dundas St., London . 519-640-5054 . kassandra.kilback@deltahotels.com . www.marriott.com
Perfect Setting Impeccable Service
Dedicated to exceeding your expectations
Ceremony, cocktail hour, pictures and reception in one location includes: l ready room for bridal party l cake cutting l reception linen (black or white) l rehearsal l choice of 4 ceremony sites l covered terrace ceremony l ongoing consultation l bartender & staff services l 2 free rounds of golf
5421 Hamilton Rd., Dorchester 519-268-3352 ext. 22 | events@pineknotgolf.com | www.pineknotgolf.com
Jasmin & Justin ~ July 5, 2014 www.erwinloewen.com
Our elegant ballrooms feature soft colours, warm accents and cozy fireplaces. Ideal for intimate weddings from 20 to 200. Ask about The Rose Chapel – our historic, on-site, non-denominational wedding venue accommodating up to 150 guests. Please call to book a consultation appointment and tour with one of our wedding specialists today.
www.stoneridgeinn.com
Jamison & Jameson ~ December 19, 2014 www.lcpcanada.com
The Rose Chapel
Celebrating Life’s Most Significant Moments Paula & Denis ~ August 8, 2014 www.maimemoriesphotography.com
we’ve come a long way baby!
Robert Miedema Photography
Historic | Non-Denominational | Stunningly Beautiful Call today for a tour 519-652-6022 6700 burtwistle lane, london www.rosechapel.ca 32 banquet halls
Babylonia 1790 BC was the setting for the first known code of law. Known as Hammurabi’s Code it included marriage laws that stated if a wife failed to have children, neglected the home, or embarrassed her husband in public, he could divorce her. Adultery carried a much harsher punishment that involved any nearby body of water. Discovered in 1901, these stone windows into history are on display at the Louvre in Paris, and are proof that “Written in stone” doesn’t mean what it used to.
www.fourpoints.com/london
Beautiful setting Exceptional service Tara & Dave July 5, 2014 www.bvphotos.ca
7038 Egremont Dr., London . 519-641-2519 events@westhavengolf.com . westhavengolf.com
registry protocol A great registry is seldom noticed, but a bad one is spotted right off. Make your registry one you can be proud of, and guests won’t be afraid of. Include a variety of prices. Anyone shopping for a wedding gift will have a clear idea of what they are going to spend, and having inexpensive items doesn’t mean they will give a lesser gift. If their budget doesn’t fall into the higher price category they will have the option of purchasing one or two of the less costly choices.
Sara & Justin September 20, 2014 www.lcpcanada.com
A registry that provides gift wrapping is a priority for out-of-town guests, and try to have at least one that offers online shopping. Before heading out on a scanning spree, do a little browsing with your fiancé (registries are for him too) and make notes on everything that catches your fancy. You’re not going to scan just yet, so let your desires reign. You could end up with a list that outweighs the number of guests by twenty to one, but that’s OK. The process of elimination will pare it down to what’s most needed. Limit the number of places you register with to three or four. More than that, and keeping track, can become mind-boggling. Because it’s advisable to register early, somewhere between “I will” and “I do”, you may change your mind several times, and want to make adjustments to the gift list. Having only a few registries is much less confusing. Register for more gifts than necessary. Any guest who does their shopping close to the wedding, could be faced with choosing between the one or two items that are still available. No one wants to feel they have been forced to choose leftovers. Morgan & Ben August 2, 2014 www.maimemoriesphotography.com 34 banquet halls
Mocha Shrine Centre Cat eri ng by
Delectable Eats
r e ce p tion & banquet fac i l it y
dining room for up to 30 two banquet halls for up to 200 ample parking
We are committed to offering our customers a professionally catered affair. Customized to precise orders to accommodate large or small groups, by offering fine foods adorned with Chef Dimitri’s personal touch and serviced by a 5 Star hospitality staff.
468 Colborne Street, London Office 519-672-1391 Catering 519-852-7054 mochashrniers@rogers.com www.mochashriners.org
To view our facility and catering menu please visit our website and click on Hall Rental & Catering.
London
wedding Garden Officiant Available Ceremony & Rehearsal set in London’s beautiful wedding garden, chapel or location of your choice.
Andra & Joe ~ August 2, 2014 www.erwinloewen.com
All inclusive Wedding Package 1057 Oxford St.,E.
London
(Prince William Room)
519-453-1690
w w w . w e ddingda y ceremonies.ca
Ashley & Andrew ~ September 10, 2014 www.rebeccanashphotography.com
24 hour cutoff Set yourself one hard and fast rule. No matter what, worrying will not be allowed the day before the wedding. If something has not worked out as planned, there’s probably nothing you can do about it now, so it’s time to kick back, and let things fall where they may. Stressing over small stuff is usually just misdirected nervousness. Anticipation over the upcoming day can translate into anxiety, and since justifying our behaviour is human nature, blaming someone or something for your tension is a natural reaction. But that’s moving in the wrong direction. The ‘blame game’ is a downhill spiral, and once you start it’s hard to stop. One small agitation reminds you of
another, and you’re off to the races. It helps to recognize that the adrenalin pumping through your system is not because the world has turned against you, it’s a normal response to excitement. Even if someone has royally messed up, not letting them spoil your evening is the best revenge. Have a restful evening, and you will look radiant in your gown. Spend the evening writing up a hit list, and the stress will be so evident even the gown won’t help. Remind yourself that in the grand scheme of things, getting married is the only thing that matters.
www.sifton.com 36 banquet halls
Highland Country Club’s Grand Highland Hall offers guests a breathtaking view of our immaculately kept golf course. From our peaceful surroundings to the attention to detail, every event we host is unique. From the moment you book your wedding at Highland Country Club, we’ll work side by side with you to personalize every detail of your reception.
From setting the right mood to selecting the right menu, every decision will be catered to your personality and style. Highland Country Club offers a variety of menu options, from formal dinner receptions to intimate champagne brunches. You can choose from our extensive list of exquisite, yet affordable entrées to custom design a menu that suits your needs.
your choice of exquisite menus prepared by our executive chef de cuisine up to 180 guests . full set up and take down . experienced service staff . set up of special event tables white table linen, fine china and silver cutlery . use of the grounds and clubhouse for photography black grand piano with “player piano” option . wood dance floor . host or cash bar available podium with microphone and in-house sound system . complimentary parking
1922 Highland Heights, London . 519-681-8223 ext. 226 karen@highlandcountryclub.com . www.highlandcountryclub.com
trite but true Regardless of how many articles you read on weddings, at the end of the day, many of them are reiterating the same advice. Is it because the authors don’t have anything more to say, or are they are trying to give you a heads up? And why is it mentioned over and over, is no one paying attention? Yes, they are trying to give you a heads up, and no, most aren’t paying attention because they don’t think it applies. The “I’ll be different” syndrome makes us believe that we can forge ahead without suffering the consequences. So to recap, here are the top three tips that you have been reading about since grade school. Acceptance: Don’t believe that buying a gown two sizes too small will give you the motivation you’ve been searching for, and that knocking off 10 lbs. will be a breeze. Pre-wedding excitement is in peril of being replaced by disappointment when the pounds don’t melt away. Buy a gown that fits now, and if the gods of weight loss decide to shine on you, have it taken in. Bridal shop owners will attest, this is the most frequent mistake a future bride makes. 38 bridal shops
Comfort: On the wedding day, you will be standing, walking, and dancing for eight to 10 hours (or more), and by hour seven, even the most comfortable shoes will have your feet crying for freedom. Don’t rely on your ability to grin and bear it. Break in your shoes (him too) and have backup footwear. A charming pair of slippers adds to the fantasy, a barefoot bride looks like her feet hurt. Food: On the morning of your wedding, eating breakfast probably won’t be a priority. Understandable, but a huge mistake. Coffee will keep you going for a while, but the lack of food will catch up with you. If you’re too nervous to even think about eggs, some toast will be ample. All day radiance needs to be jump-started with a little sustenance. Future brides all know this, but most don’t heed it, and end up squeezing into a tight gown, treating blisters, or having dizzy spells. That’s why almost every time you read an article on weddings you are going to stumble across some version of the above, but if it didn’t happen all the time, no one would write about it.
Safa Tailor’s
alterations & dry cleaning
Alina & Sandor ~ October 31, 2014 www.erwinloewen.com
bridal alteration specialist for over 25 years
Jasmin & Justin ~ July 5, 2014 www.erwinloewen.com
79-B Wharncliffe Rd., S (at Springbank) London 519-434-8006 www.safatailor.com
Garber’s Bridal See us at London Bridal Expo
Mori Lee by Madeline Gardner
January 9 - 10, 2016 & September 24 - 25, 2016
250 Dundas Street, London | 519.433.4043 | www.garbersbridal.com |facebook.com/GarbersBridal bridal shops 39
no double duty
Personalized wedding hangers which are a stunning addition to the wedding dress photos as well as a memory of their beautiful wedding day.
Touch of Heart
905-999-8776 . touchofheartmemories@hotmail.ca www.touchofheart.ca . www.facebook.com/touchofheartcanada 40 bridal shops/accessories
Believe it or not, on your wedding day bridesmaids and groomsmen will have their hands full. They will be occupied with assisting you and attending to guests, with hopefully enough time left over to enjoy the party. But, since they’re going to be there anyway doesn’t it make sense to give them a few extra duties? At first glace it does, but if you think it through, it may not be such a good idea. Asking a bridesmaid to put out the seating cards sounds easy enough, what could possibly go wrong? In theory nothing, but what happens if she gets held up by a photo session, or trapped in a conversation with guests, and can’t get there on time to complete the task? Even though it’s a small chore, don’t depend on your wedding party to be available for photos, interact with guests, attend to your every need, and still manage to find time for additional duties. Delegate to someone who is not in the wedding party. For more significant responsibilities such as photographer or videographer, using a friend who will ‘be there anyway’ is not a prudent choice. As a guest, the friend will want to chat with friends, enjoy dinner, have a few drinks and dance the night away. When will there be time for photos? Important assignments need to be handled by a non-guest professional who can give the job their undivided attention.
The Four Factors That Determine the Cost of Your Wedding Gown
For the experience you’ll always remember and the gown they’ll never forget.
By Erin Bouchard, Once Upon A Time Weddings brides
When brides start to shop for their dream gown they can often become overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices. With so many stores and so many gowns how does one ever choose? What should you be looking for when comparing gowns? In this article, owner Erin Bouchard discusses the four factors that go into making a wedding gown and determining the price so that you, the bride, can be assured that you really are comparing apples to apples while gown shopping.
. bridesmaids
mothers . tuxedos
We’re easy to work with. Thank you so much for all your help and for providing me and my girls the perfect gowns for my wedding. I appreciate how easy it was to work with you. Thank you for everything! Bree Lanigan (Strathroy)
The first factor
is the level of skill and workmanship of the individual that is actually sewing your gown. The truth is that almost all bridal gowns are made overseas. Make sure you chose designers who operate and produce in the very best factories with the very best seamstresses. It is more important to look at the workmanship of the gown than at the name that is attached to the gown.
The second factor
that makes up the cost of a wedding gown is the interior boning and construction of your gown. Every wedding gown is rated from A-K based on the inner boning and construction. But, what does that mean for you, the bride? It means that your gown will conture to your body better and you will not have to purchase a spanx or corset to wear under your gown as it will be all built in. When you’re trying on gowns ask your consultant what your gown is and feel for the difference.
We go above and beyond for our brides. Thank you so much for helping me find my DREAM dress and accessories. You went above and beyond to make sure that everything was perfect! I received so many compliments about how fabulous the dress was. Thanks again for helping to make my wedding perfect! Stacey Wills (Glencoe)
We are here for you throughout the entire process. Thank you for everything! Thank you for all your help and advice in helping to bring together my dream wedding. We appreciate it! Melissa Igras (London).
The third factor
that influences the cost of a wedding gown is the fabric that is used in the making of the gown. There are many different fabrics and they vary in cost. From taffeta to luxurious satin to all over lace. A gown made out of quality fabric will look nicer on your body and will be easier for a seamstress to alter. When trying on gowns make sure to touch and feel the fabric.
The fourth factor is the beadwork that is used in the
making of the gowns. Good quality gowns will have quality beadwork – sequins, crystals, jewels that are all hand sewn onto your gown instead of done by a machine. You will notice the difference in quality. So whether you are just starting to look for gowns or you’ve tried on a dozen, make sure that you keep these four factors in mind when comparing gowns. For more information about Once Upon A Time Weddings please visit www.onceuponatimeweddings. ca. If you have enjoyed this article, you can find more like it on our blog at www.onceuponatimeweddings.ca/blog. Be Beautiful! Erin Bouchard
We work hard so you don’t have to. Thank you for all of your hard work to make my day perfect. I felt like a princess in my dress. You guys did an amazing job! The invitations, jewellery and menu cards were all amazing. I would recommend anyone to come in to see you with any of their wedding needs. Lauren Houck (Sarnia) What will your reason be? Book your appointment at Once Upon A Time Weddings and start enjoying the benefits of our expertise.
2 Front St., W. Strathroy 519-245-7997 . www.onceuponatimeweddings.ca
Natalia & Johnny July 26, 2014 www.erwinloewen.com
Customized to precise orders to accommodate large or small groups. We offer fine foods adorned with Chef Dimitri’s personal touch and serviced by a 5 Star hospitality staff.
Cate r i ng by Delectable Eats 468 Colborne St., London (Inside Mocha Shrine Centre) 519-852-7054 | delectableeats@sympatico.ca | www.mochashriners.org
weet S Sensations
chocolate fountain catering
a fountain of tantalizing chocolate will make a lasting impression on your guests.
Amy & Brandon October 18, 2014 www.robertrussellphotography.com
We use only the finest Belgian Chocolate and the freshest of dipping items. providing fountain rentals in london and southwestern ontario.
519-457-6565 sweetsensations@bellnet.ca www.chocolatefountaincatering.ca 42 caterers
Katelynn & Josh October 11, 2014 www.bvphotos.ca
bylaw C at e r i n g T o London's Finest Venues
A backyard wedding faces one issue that other weddings generally don’t. Neighbours. Cities have sound bylaws, and if the music is blasting after curfew, your celebrations can be brought to a sudden halt. Having their evening TV drowned out is barely tolerable, but when the vibrations haven’t lessened by bedtime, the neighbours may be sending the law to your door. However, you can turn an irritated neighbourhood into an understanding one by giving everyone in your area a heads up about the impending disturbance. Noise is something of a two way street. When it is thought to be inconsiderate and unnecessary, it’s invasive and irritating. But when you know it is not being done for the sole purpose of ruining your evening, it isn’t liked, but it’s understood. So how do you appease anyone within hearing distance? Let them know in advance what will be going on, and your celebrations will be placed in the ‘can’t be avoided’ category. Notes in their mailboxes that announce your coming event combined with apologies for any disturbance it may cause, will make everyone feel, if not included, at least considered. The thoughtfulness of the couple will outweigh the noise. This doesn’t mean you can rock all night at full blast, it only means you won’t be shunned by the neighbourhood in the morning. You still have to meet them half way by bringing the decibels down at your area’s designated time.
...with personality
consumer choice award & best of london winners
519-453-8222
thesteelgrill@rogers.com
3 years in a row
w w w. s t e e l g r i l l . c o m
unique... intimate... wholesome... personalized...
keep them fresh If it’s going to be super hot, bring a stray bottle of water for misting the flowers. It keeps them cool and helps prevent wilting. Because direct sun will burn water off the petals and cause browning, do your misting in a shady place, and unless you’re willing to take a spritz to the head, forgo flowers in your hair. By the time they get to the reception the flowers will be dying of thirst. Choose bouquets that are not fully wrapped and have stems exposed at the bottom so that when you put them in water they can drink it up and come back to life.
catering & bistro private room for rehearsal dinners. showers. brunch Recipient of the 2015 Consumer Choice Award
46 Blackfriars Street London 519-667-4930 blackfriarsbistro.com caterers 43
www.patzees.com
Ferreira Pa r t y & W e d d i n g
Making wedding dreams come true since 1985 rentals . decorating . invitations . silk & fresh flowers 502 Egerton St., London . 519-659-3331 . ferreiraparty@gmail.com .
www.facebook.com/ferreirapw.ferreira
be the best bridesmaid... ever Once you have said “I would be thrilled to be your bridesmaid” the promise is sealed. There will be expenses, there will be commitments, and there will be work to do. Before blurting out the “Yes!” response, if you have any doubts about your ability to see it through to the end, now is the time to say so. Backing out later is far worse than declining now. The bride will understand if you can’t take on the position, but she won’t be as understanding if you accept and don’t follow through.
Amanda & Brian ~ June 21, 2014 www.robertrussellphotography.com
If you are going to take the pledge, and the success of your friend’s wedding balances on your shoulders, here a few tips on being the best bridesmaid you can be. When the bride has made a decision, be prepared to “Love it”. Even if you tried for weeks to convince her that brown isn’t your colour (brown isn’t anyone’s colour), or that her choice of a mariachi band may not be best suited to her Christmas theme wedding, if that’s what she chooses... Don’t assume that because she’s your best friend, you know what she wants. Every last detail has to be cleared by head office (the bride). Any attempt to alter her choice when she isn’t looking is going to backfire. Surprising her with a male stripper because she’s so shy, and you think she needs to ‘lighten up’, could end the friendship faster than the stripper can shed his fireman costume.
Heather & Cory ~ July 12, 2014 www.robertrussellphotography.com 46 decorators
Be prepared to attend wedding related functions. The bride will be counting on you to be there. Changes in schedule may have to be finalized in your absence, and everyone who took the trouble to show up will be crossing you off their Christmas card list. continued on next page...
Don’t procrastinate. Calls that are not promptly responded to, and chores not being completed on time will drive any bride to distraction. Brides are walking on a thin wire and having everything done on schedule is their only means of balance. “I meant to call you back”, “I haven’t gotten to it yet”, and the worst of all “I forgot” are sure to send her into panic mode.
Creating a truly successful event requires knowledge and experience.
rentals . florals . decor
On the wedding day be on your best behaviour. You were chosen by her, you are a friend of hers, and you are a reflection of who she is. When a bridesmaid staggers around the room, spills drinks on the floor, and uses language straight out of an X-rated movie, it reflects on the bride. Anyone who doesn’t know the bride well will get the impression she spends her nights cruising seedy bars. For the sake of her reputation, and yours, rein in your ‘lets party’ impulses. Never complain to the other bridesmaids. Brides are like hawks when it comes to gossip, and somehow she will get wind of any complaints, or dirt dishing that’s going on behind her back. She will feel betrayed at a time when she needs you most. And it gets worse. She will never trust you again.
Marriage is a commitment, a decision to do, all through life, that which will express your love for one’s spouse. Herman H. Kieval
Please visit our showroom and enjoy the confidence of working with a highly skilled design team. 1910 Blue Heron Dr., London 519-474-7278 info@signatureevents.ca www.signatureevents.ca
decorators 47
Missing You Today
Creating
May we take one small moment During the excitement of today To remember those no longer with us To them we wish to say:
personal ceremonies and a
(insert names), We miss you and still love you Wishing you could have shared in this wedding Enjoying time with our family and friends From the sun’s rising to the sun’s setting
lifetime of memories
And what we miss most we can only imagine You here with us right now Smiling, laughing, joyful As we share our wedding vow H&S Studios
Melissa Taylor ~ Licensed Officiant with All Seasons Weddings
Our website offers sample ceremonies, vows, original readings, blog showcasing local vendors, wedding topics, ceremony questions and answers.
The Wedding Industry Expert 2015 Award 519-868-9425 | melissa.taylor687@gmail.com | simpleblessings.ca
readings by Melissa Taylor Just You And Me This marriage is about you and me The life we have created The dreams and goals we share This moment is just for us Looking ahead with excitement at our future Supporting one another no matter what lies ahead May our love always be enough To heal any hurts To dry any tears May our love provide us with strength And fill our hearts with hope For the possibilities in life as individuals and as a couple May our marriage grow stronger each day And may we find examples of married life To lead and encourage us This marriage is about you and me Husband and wife From this moment on, Forever in love 48 celebrants
We have felt your presence all day long Never leaving our side Without you here it truly isn’t the same This we must confide We will think of you constantly Throughout this celebration We need you here, we miss you so Our dear friends, our loving relations These thoughts we simply needed to share These few words we just had to say But our hearts now turn only to happiness As we continue on our way….
When We Leave Here Hand in hand We will walk this aisle together And face the world A new family Our journey is unknown With so many wonderful adventures ahead We ask that those here today Continue to love us And support us Please be our friend Through any difficult times Be our example Of how married life should be Come along with us now To celebrate in our joy We are husband, we are wife Powerful words holding much hope As we leave here today We ask the world to be kind To provide us with all we need To live in health and prosperity For all the days to come
notes & timelines Keep notes on everything. A successful wedding requires a great deal of coordination. The DJ you want is available on the potential day but the venue is booked. The venue is available the following weekend, and so is the DJ, but the photographer is not. You have to remember to tell your florist which flowers your bridesmaid is allergic to, ask your caterer about vegetarian meals and make an appointment for a fitting. No one could keep this straight. From fleeting inspirations, to lunch with your bridesmaids, writing everything down will save your sanity.
Lori’s Weddings Your wedding your way
location of your choice, or our beautiful unity sanctuary
Timelines are not just for the day of the wedding, they apply to everything associated with it. When will you need to make a decision on the cake? How long before the wedding do you need to order your gown? Knowing when everything has to be finalized, and having it done on schedule makes for a less hassled bride.
experienced ordained unity minister offering romantic . spiritual . non-denominational ceremonies Rev. Lori Hisson H: 519.686.7245 C: 519.854.7245
revlori@rogers.com
www.lorisweddings.ca
contingency fund No matter how carefully you have planned your budget, set a little aside for the unexpected expenses that are sure to crop up. Unforeseen costs can take you over budget faster than you can whip out your credit card. It’s inevitable that a few things will be overlooked, or cost more than anticipated. With something put aside, you will have that extra bracelet covered.
Natasha & Andy ~ April 4, 2014 www.maimemoriesphotography.com
Wedding Day Ceremonies Your Day - Your Way CHRISTIAN - SECULAR
519-453-5823 Rev. Dan MacDonald dmacdonald@hackett.ca www.weddingdayceremonies.ca
y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y
Jenn & Sean ~ August 23 , 2014 www.erwinloewen.com
y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y
y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y
y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y
celebrants 49
why didn’t they dance? The success of a wedding can be measured by the number of people on the dance floor, and every couple wants to see their guests doing their best moves with careless abandon. But why does the dance floor at some weddings appear to have an impenetrable barrier around it? There’s no one on it, and guests are taking the long route to the bar to avoid walking on it. Are they afraid of it? In a way, yes. No one wants to be conspicuous. When a couple is brave enough to venture onto an empty dance floor, there’s always the chance that no one will follow their lead, and they will be stuck on the floor with all eyes on them until the music stops - torture. Keep the ball rolling. After the usual wedding party dances, guests are expected to take the initiative and brave the dance floor, but without some encouragement, and support, it may not happen. When all of the planned performances are completed, recruit the wedding party to do their ‘let’s get this party rolling’ best. They can begin by dancing with their wedding partner (i.e. maid-of-honour and best man), then separate and invite guests to join them. Offer something for everyone. A variety of age groups, calls for a variety of music. Restricting the music to all rock leaves the waltz group out in the cold. Include a song card in your invitations. When they hear their request being played, they’re almost certain to hit the floor. Song cards have an added bonus. They’re like getting statistics on what type of music most guests prefer. Have a juniors dance floor. Unlike their elder counterparts, children have no qualms about looking ridiculous in public, and when they see an empty floor at their disposal, like moths to 50 disc jockeys
a flame, they’re going to head right for it. When children are dominating the dance floor, no couple wants to be the one who spoils their fun, plus they run the risk of being bowled over by a cartwheeling youngster. To be fair to the children (they love to dance too), have an area where they can perform their gyrations without interfering with the adults. At first glance there appears to be no relationship between long speeches and empty dance floors, but there is. Directly after the meal, guests are ready to get up and move around, but when lengthy speeches keep them pinned in their seats, the desire to move is replaced by the desire for a nap. Get up and join them. Guests are more likely to participate if they see the newlyweds on the floor. Don’t push it. Not everyone wants to dance and trying to force them into it isn’t the way to go. Rather than appear uncooperative, some will bite the bullet and dance, but they’re not going to be happy about it, and that defeats your purpose.
dual purpose dance The words ‘first dance’ always conger up visions of a happy couple looking lovingly into each other’s eyes while swaying to the strains of a romantic ballet. You never think of it as an indication of the evening to come, or a way of livening up the party. Starting with a dreamy melody gives guests what they expect. Transforming it half way into a lively up-beat dance, shows them your playful side.
“Steven and I just wanted to thank you for all your team’s hardwork. Mark was awesome! Thanks so much!” “We just wanted to thank you again for making our night so wonderful!! The music was great and you and John did an AMAZING job!! It was a pleasure working with you!” “Thanks again for making our wedding day an outstanding one! I’ve passed along your info to my cousin who is getting married this coming summer in London. We had so many compliments on the music!”
“Everyone had great things to say about your DJ services! They thought you did a great job of getting people out on the dance floor immediately and many thought that you were able to keep a strong crowd there longer than normal, which is fantastic. Someone said they thought you were one of the best DJ’s we’ve had! Thank you for your help with everything, you were extremely easy to work with and I appreciate your help in making the event a success! It was wonderful that you took care of the lights, as well as the music throughout the entire evening. Karen (jazz vocalist) also thought that were you fantastic to work with as well, so thank you!”
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swords for shovels Sword at the ready, the original purpose of groomsmen was to fend off enemies attempting to hijack the bride. Today, we know the bride is not in peril, but for a mid-winter wedding, guests might be. Once again it’s groomsmen to the rescue, only now they are armed with snow shovels instead of swords. Even the most diligent venue can have difficulty keeping abreast of winter’s fury. It may be time for the brave and valiant groomsmen to draw their trusty shovels. Even though snow shovels probably aren’t at the top of your wedding wish list, when winter’s glory is serving as your backdrop, have a few extra stashed in the trunk of the car incase Mother Nature double crosses you. It doesn’t come with the job description, but the groom’s attendants may be called on to assure no guest has to deal with snowdrifts or slushy walkways. Encourage their participation by telling them that there’s something especially seductive about a man in a tux doing hard labour.
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Your wedding day will not only be the best day of your life, it’s going to be the busiest day too, with more people around you, and wanting to talk to you, than ever before. It can be an overwhelming experience. After the wedding many brides hear themselves saying “I never had a moment to myself”. Start the day right by having only those necessary with you as you prepare. Everyone else should have to go through a buffer. Someone who will redirect your “Just dropped by to see how it’s going” friends, screen your calls and assure a quiet time for you to prepare. During the day, set aside some time just for you and your new hubby. This is a piece of advice that you will come across in almost any article written about the wedding day. The irony is that most don’t remember to do it. They get caught up in the whirlwind of guests, music and celebrations. Alone time never materializes, and for many the day is a complete blur. Taking time out doesn’t necessarily mean disappearing into seclusion, it just means taking time to soak in the ambiance and create a few clear memories. On the other hand if you feel the need to recharge by retreating to a quiet spot, go for it.
take a break from obsession When you find you can’t think of anything else but the wedding, and even that not very clearly, it’s time for a vacation from planning. Do something different and unrelated to the big day. Go walking in a park, and refuse to think about anything but the beauty of nature all around you. Have a night out with the girls, and forbid any marriage related conversation. In short, do anything that will take your mind off wedding planning. After a brief vacation from the whirlwind of wedding thoughts running through your head, it will be easier to put things in perspective, and you will feel more prepared to resume planning - full speed ahead.
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Jen & John ~ August 31, 2014 www.lcpcanada.com
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Meghan & Brad ~ August 9, 2014 www.robertrussellphotography.com
Rebecca Ross was willing to run the risk of having her maid-of-honour outshine her, so she chose to give the honour to her nine year old daughter, Alyssa, who stole the show!
58 invitations
maid-of-honour Which of your friends would you most prefer to be stranded on a deserted island with? Which one would be able to make fire, find water, gather food, build shelter, and maybe even win Survivor? That’s the one you want to take with you on this journey. She may not have to find food or build shelter, but she may have to put out a few fires, and you need a level head at the helm. Your maid-of-honour should be someone you enjoy being with, someone who makes you feel good about yourself, and someone who has the energy and enthusiasm to see it through to the end. As second in command she will be your rock for the duration. The person you choose needs to be relatively unencumbered with lots of free time to dedicate to your wedding, and she has to be willing to take on what will (essentially) become a part-time job. She will be your go-to girl for registry info, appointment times and updates. She will delegate errands, arrange meetings and oversee the plans in general. It takes a dedicated friend to get you safely off the island of single women.
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Stephanie & Craig September 27, 2014 www.robertrussellphotography.com
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when and where After “Let me see the ring”, the next thing you will hear is “When and where?”. Where is the first part of that question to be answered because when is relatively easy, regardless of the time of year. Any wedding can be fabulous if the couple has chosen the right venue, but where to hold the day of days is crucial to the wedding’s success. Before you lose your heart to that stunning reception site, take a deep breath, and let reason back into your decision making. The right balance between amount of space and number of guests is part of what gives the wedding its ambiance. Too little space and the wedding will be overcrowded and claustrophobic. Too much space will appear as if you had a lot of ‘no shows’, and give the room an air of disappointment. If you hear yourself saying “We can squeeze everyone in here” or “There’s more space than we need”, it’s time to stop and reconsider. Is it convenient? Close to the ceremony site, and easy to find is always the way to go. Guests don’t want to drive long distances between “I do” and dinner, and for out-of-town guests who don’t know the area, finding the location can be a hurdle. When the site is nearby, flowers that are serving double duty will appreciate the short ride, the environment will thank you for eliminating emissions, and none of your guests will end up on a country road, blaspheming their GPS. How much do you want to take on? If you would rather spend money on a gown, and have a do-it-yourself reception, that’s good too, but how much extra work are you willing to do? A 60 limousines
casual beach wedding sounds like a breeze to organize, but depending on the location, you may have to arrange for shelter, power, lighting, and let’s not forget the porta-potties. Tables and chairs will have to be brought in, and after the wedding someone has to do the cleanup. Before you embark on a do-ityourself, weigh the pluses and minuses. Getting back to when, as long as it works for family and friends almost any date is good, with a few exceptions. Make guests happy by not setting your date too close to holidays, or days that a major sports event will be televised. On Labour Day weekend, most people have end of summer plans, everyone is extra busy at Christmas, and a wedding on Superbowl Sunday is grievous for sports fans. Guests won’t enjoy the wedding if they’d rather be someplace else.
gift gatherer on duty When entering a reception, there is one thing guests are always looking for. (No, not the bar.) They’re looking for a place to put their gift. When a designated table is not in sight, they may give it to you in the receiving line, or place it on the head table. At best, holding a gift while greeting guests would be awkward, at worst, there could be gifts left randomly all over the room. A gift gathering designee is imperative. Have someone to keep watch for guests entering with gifts (they’re pretty easy to spot), and direct them to the gift table. If a few should slip by, and hand it directly to you, your ‘gatherer’ can relieve you of it and place it with the others.
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time capsule What do your friends think your future holds? Will you have children, go into business for yourself, travel extensively, or win a lottery? In five or 10 years it would be fun to look back, and see what your guests predicted for your future. Place a card and pencil at each guest’s setting and ask them to write down what they foresee as your destiny. Guests can share their predictions with each other (great for promoting interaction) but not with the newlyweds.
Here’s the hard part. As tempting as it might be, don’t read them. They have to be reserved for a time when you can see if their forecasts came true. Tell guests when you will be opening the capsule so they can predict within the time frame. They have to be sure to sign them, and if one of them turns out to be Nostradamus incarnate, you can let them know.
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Jessica & Bryce ~ June 28, 2014 www.bvphotos.ca
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please pass the salt One thing future brides of the 21st century don’t lack is advice. In the past they only had family and friends to council them, today you have the whole world, with all the opinions it has to offer, literally at your fingertips. There’s little doubt that, as soon as you are engaged, one of the first things you’re going to do is browse the net’s dizzying array of gowns, decorations, and regulations on how you should, and should not, conduct your wedding. It’s a dream come true, that can turn into a nightmare if all of the information is taken to heart. You’re going to run into conflicting opinions that create confusion, must-have promotions for things you didn’t think you needed, and even people who are critical of weddings in general. So while the rest of the world gets to state its opinion, here’s my advice (you knew that was coming didn’t you). Utilize what works for you and discard the rest. Trying to follow all the rules, and have all the professed essentials, is setting yourself up for time in a padded room. Your centerpieces don’t have to be identical because that’s what Martha prefers, you will get married - even without an aisle runner, and the reception’s success doesn’t depend on having your seating plan down to a fine science.
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The amount of information and advice you have access to is staggering, and you will be missing out if you don’t take full advantage of everything that’s out there, but before you start to eat up every word, season it with the proverbial grain of salt.
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a little task When wedding candles flicker out it is believed to be a bad omen, and not being able to light them in the first place causes an awkward pause in the proceedings. The wick of a new candle can be imbedded in the wax, and impossible to light. Dig them out and stand them upright ahead of time. party/wedding favours 63
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gift table The gift table is often overlooked as an added attraction. It is usually placed in a corner so it doesn’t get in anyone’s way, and since it’s going to be covered in gifts, a simple table cloth is about all the consideration it gets. A wasted opportunity for finishing touches. Everyone expects guests to view the cake table, but the gift table will get almost as much attention. Granted, people won’t gather around it and examine the details, they will however be placing their gifts there, and everyone glances at the gift table as they walk by.
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Obviously the top of the table has to be kept clear to accommodate gifts but there will be room for a personalized touch or two. A framed “Thank you for attending our wedding” or a copy of an engagement photo with a few flower petals tossed around. Whatever decor is being used on the head table or cake table, bring a touch of it to the gift table.
brief the team You can’t tell the people who will speak at your wedding what to say, but you can suggest what not to say. If there are things you don’t want mentioned let them know. Otherwise, something you preferred to keep private is now the talk of the reception.
Naly & David ~ August 30, 2014 www.maimemoriesphotography.com
What happens in Vegas. Wild nights out, emotional breakdowns, confided doubts. These are all subjects that are off limits. Chances are, the attendants have been with you every step of the way. They have witnessed your highs and lows, loved you at your best, and understood you at your worst. They are more than welcome to talk about your best, but your worst has to be kept ‘in Vegas’. Modern family. A sentimental memory of a childhood meeting at Uncle Dave and Aunt Mary’s house followed by a toast to the couple who introduced you, can be a blunder if Uncle Dave and Aunt Mary have since divorced, remarried and are at the wedding with their new partners. Brief your speakers on any family situations that could cause embarrassment. Politics and religion. Two subjects to be avoided. They are best kept for places of worship and political demonstrations. Ethnic jokes are always politically incorrect, and never funny to the nationality being targeted. You never know whose feelings can be hurt.
Becky & Tyler ~ June 28, 2014 www.maimemoriesphotography.com 68 photographers
Keep it clean. No unsavory remarks and no imitations of George Carlin. Foul language and suggestive wisecracks don’t belong in wedding speeches. They are offensive to everyone, and you could end up with an X-rated video of your day.
www.robertrussellphotography.com
been there, seen that Keeping guests waiting endlessly was mistake number one. Leaving them with that much free time, and an open bar was mistake number two. With nothing to eat and nothing to do, the watering hole was the center of attraction. By the time the couple finally returned, half of their guests were wasted, some had already called cabs, and a few fell asleep during dinner.
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When guests have driven a distance to attend, and a long pause in the day is unavoidable, it’s up to you to offer them a place to pass the time, get something to eat and have something to do, otherwise they end up waiting in their cars (seen that too). Food and drink are the easy part, something to do takes a little innovation. Photo booths, putting greens, ping-pong tables and trivia cards work well for indoor weddings. For outdoor weddings, croquet, frisbees, or even a scavenger hunt will help pass the time, and slow the activity at the bar, so that when you’re ready to party, they’re still able to party.
This day I will marry my friend, the one I laugh with, live for, dream with, love.
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70 rentals
Unknown
Our 2014
London/St. Thomas
Cover Bride Winners’ trip
Naly and David’s trip was sponsored by Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia. We are so lucky to have won the grand prize for Bridal Confidential’s 2014 London/ St. Thomas Cover Bride Contest. David and I won two full days of pampering for our photoshoot days and an amazing allinclusive trip to Barcelo Maya Palace in Mayan Riviera Mexico! The resort was absolutely beautiful. I cannot believe how on top of everything the staff was. Our room was close to the ocean which is where we spent most of our days playing in the waves, searching for sea turtles or lounging around the pools. We couldn’t have asked for better weather in September. We had access to two other resorts that connected to the Palace. This gave us numerous choices for à la cartes or other buffets for breakfast or lunch. One day while walking along the beach we came to a pier where we found people feeding fish in the ocean with special fish food that you could purchase in the nearby store. It was a great place to sit and relax and watch all the fish swimming around and up close to the pier. Along our walk and touring through the other hotels we came across a pool of 5 dolphins swimming around waiting to play. You could go anytime of the day and sit on the bench and watch them interact with the trainers or swim and play around. I finally went into the pool with them one day and I have to say it was an amazing experience! We also took a day off the resort and went to explore. We went zip lining, rafting and took the amphibious vehicles for a ride. We had a blast! An extra thanks to Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia for sponsoring our wonderful trip. This has been an amazing journey and we are forever grateful to everyone who supported us! Naly Leuthavone
travel 71
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“Her gown was gorgeous, the ceremony was spectacular, the flowers were amazing, but I was bored to tears.” Bored? Everything was perfect, how is that possible? No matter how flawless the wedding, when you can’t hear what’s being said, and don’t know what’s going on - it’s boring. In a large venue with a sizable number of guests, there’s every possibility that the people near the back won’t be able to hear or see clearly, therefore, they won’t know what’s happening. A simple solution to this common problem is a wedding program that gives guests an outline of the proceedings. This is especially true if your ceremony has special touches that shouldn’t be missed. Presenting roses to the mothers, performing the sand ceremony, special prayers for loved ones? You took the time to arrange for these moments, it would be a shame if your guests have no idea what you’re doing or why. For those at the back of the room, programs won’t help the hearing situation, but at least they will be abreast of the ceremony’s progress. Programs are given to guests as they arrive, and be sure to keep one for your wedding album. Programs can do more than just outline the ceremony. You can add directions to your reception venue, or give contact phone numbers. Anything that you think would be helpful to guests, and “Thank you for coming to our wedding”, always works.
congratulations Gillian and Alex Watts were married June 21st, 2014 in Woodstock. Gillian is a Nanny and Freelance Writer. Alex is a student double majoring in Theology and Philosophy.
Photographs by Marg Prisner 74 videographer
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Gillian & Trevor
sarnia . chatham
Photography www.lcpcanada.com
Gown: Once Upon A Time Weddings Bouquet: LaPier’s Flowers & Gifts Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hair: The Rooted bohemian Makeup: THE Glass & Pillar Spa
sarnia/chatham 2015 Cover bride contest Winners My photo shoot day
by Gillian Sherwood
"Dream until your dreams come true!" This was my motto competing for the Cover Bride Contest. Bridal Confidential makes dreams come true! We are so thankful they put this contest together. We have been so blessed with this amazing prize. It truly was a dream come true. I first started competing in Bridal Confidential when I submitted my engagement story 3 years ago. I was ecstatic when my engagement story got chosen to be published in the magazine. After this contest I believed anything was possible! I competed in the 2014/2015 Cover Bride Contest and won 7th place. I still had my motivation to be that 2015 Cover Bride Winner and believed I could do it with a little determination. I put my mind to it and it paid off as here I am extending my sincere thanks to all the Sponsors who made this day possible for me! A dream is a wish your heart makes and we knew our wish was answered when we saw the limo pull up in front of our house. We started our day off with Ozzy from Penguin Limousines to shuttle us around for the day. He was so prompt and organized, knowing exactly when and where we were headed on our adventure. Our first stop was The Rooted Bohemian. Lindsay is an amazing hair stylist that was so prepared with extensions and flower clips. As bright and early as it was she was ready with coffee and tea for Trevor and I. She made getting my hair done so enjoyable with many laughs and smiles. Trevor enjoyed his hair cut and style too. We couldn’t thank her enough for the start of our amazing day. Our second stop was to LaPier's Flowers & Gifts where we picked up a gorgeous bouquet made by Marianne. It was a beautiful collection of flowers and colours that popped. We headed over to Adora Spa to pick up our Spa Manicure Gift Certificate. It is a beautiful spa and I look forward to going and getting pampered. We arrived at Limbo Lounge where we were greeted by friendly staff and received a gift certificate for dinner which we will enjoy spending a night out on a date together! We stopped at Memorable Moments to pick up our gift certificate and viewed the gorgeous unique venue and was told about their services available for our wedding day! It was now time for make up at
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The Glass & Pillar Spa. Christie gave me a Hollywood glamour makeup style. It was perfect! This made me start feeling like a Princess! Holiday Inn was next on the list! We picked up an overnight stay for two in the Jacuzzi room. We look forward to getting away for a night and enjoying the pool, jacuzzi, and all the Holiday Inn has to offer. It was time for lunch! Arriving at The Quality Inn Sarnia we received a delicious picnic basket filled with sandwiches, cheeses, fruit, lemon cake, and chocolate covered strawberries to top it all off! Next we headed over to Marlin Travel. We could hardly contain our excitement when Sherry showed us the resort we will be staying at for our one week all inclusive trip to Veradaro Cuba. We are beyond thankful for this. We have been together 8 years and have never had the opportunity to travel together. This was always a Dream for us! Bridal Confidential, Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel proved to us that Dreams can come true! We are thrilled to experience this opportunity of a lifetime together. It was now time to head to Strathroy to get suited up for our photo shoot. We went to the Men's Shoppe to pick up the tux provided by Collins Formal Wear. Trevor looked handsome suited up in the blue tuxedo. Then over to Once Upon a Time Weddings to put on the glamorous pink wedding dress! Erin added earrings, necklace and a belt to finish off the glam look! We had a lot of fun in the shop pretending it was the day I picked out the wedding dress holding up the "I Said Yes!" sign for photos! Trevor and I were finally ready for the photo shoot. Arriving at Canatara first as this was where our love began when I was just 15, and where he proposed to me! We thought it would be sentimental to do some photos here then stopping at the Animal Farm and finishing at the Bluewater Bridge. Maddy our photographer and Derek our videographer from LC Productions made the photo shoot so comfortable and relaxed, with lots of laughs, smiles, and fun poses! It was a great afternoon with LC Productions capturing our memorable day! We were so happy with everything and so thankful to all the sponsors that made this possible and truly grateful to spend a week away in Cuba on our first ever vacation together in the 8 years we have spent loving each other.
photo shoot sponsors All Inclusive Trip for Two: Transat Holidays, Marlin Travel Sarnia Photography/Video: LC Productions Gown: Once upon a time weddings Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hair: The rooted bohemian Makeup: THE Glass & Pillar Spa Manicure: Adora Spa 78
Bouquet: LaPier’s Flowers & Gifts Limo: Penguin Limousine Gift Basket: THE Quality inn sarnia Dinner for Two: Limbo Lounge Overnight Stay for Two: Holiday Inn, Pt. Edward
Thank you to all our generous sponsors! See more photos and video at bridalconfidential.com
www.transatholidays.com
sar n i a / c h at h am
2015
cover bride contest winners
2nd
Gillian Sherwood Gillian won an all-inclusive Trip for Two sponsored by Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia. Gillian also appears on our cover and enjoyed two full days of pampering. Gillian’s story page 78.
4th
3rd
Chelsea Sayers
Two Night, Three Day Stay with a Pamper Gift Basket from Bogey’s Inn
5th
Jennifer Wilson
Two Season Tickets for the 2015/2016 Sarnia Theatre Season from Imperial Theatre
6th
Maria Donald
Boudoir Session from John Lyons Weddings 80
11
st st place place winner winner
Theresa Baars
Dinner for Two in the Greenside Dining Lounge at Sarnia Golf & Curling Club
7th
Lauren Reurink
Overnight Stay for Two at Bestwestern Guildwood Inn
Mandy Carter
Neurospa Gift Certificate for Two 45 Minute Sessions for the Bride & Groom from Calm ‘N Scents
Congratulations to all our winners and thank you to our generous sponsors!
8th
9th
10th
Laurel DeMars
Lauren Caine
Two Personalized Hangers – one for the bride and one for the groom from Touch of Heart
11th
$100 Gift Certificate from IKB Boutique.
12th
Sara Ducharme
Lunch for Four at Grind Cafe & Catering Co.
14th
LaVahn Myers $50 Gift Cerfiticate from Cake Heaven
Kristine Germain
Rolling Weekender (weekend bag on wheels) from Thirty One Gifts
13th
Kara Leone
$50 Certificate/Pair of Earrings from Seacret Skin Care & a $50 Certificate from Sideways
15th
Tiffany Harper
Lunch for Two at The Bistro from Eclipse Catering & Bistro
16th
Jannie Shau
Wedding Cake Serving Set from Isn’t Life Sweet
Danielle D’Angela
One Month Unlimited Tanning Package from Jamaican Sun Tanning & Salon 81
engagement story
Amber & Mike
What do you do when you haven't heard from a handsome guy you briefly dated years ago, and suddenly he pops up out of the blue and asks you on a date? Go on the date! I was nervous and excited to see Mike again. He planned for us to meet at a local bar for cocktails a few days later. There was an instant connection. He was so cute, knew how to make me laugh and gave me butterflies every time I saw him thereafter. After being in a relationship for a few years, we decided to go on a vacation to Dominican Republic. Prior to our vacation, Mike had planned dates with my mother and granny to ensure he had their blessings for my hand in marriage. Little did I know that he was planning to ask me to marry him (although I had my suspicions). Within hours of arriving to our beautiful resort, we decided to acquaint ourselves with the amenities of the hotel. Following a few cocktails, Mike suggested we take a romantic, starlit stroll on the beach. As we walked along the sandy beach, I could tell Mike was nervous about something. He was fidgeting in his pockets and looking at the other people around us. After a short walk, he suggested we sit and lounge on the beach chairs. I could tell he was still nervous and something was up. We couldn't have found a more beautiful spot to sit and enjoy the moment. The moon couldn't have been shining brighter. The sound of the waves and the sparkle of the stars made everything even more romantic. I sat down as Mike continued to fidget with his pockets and attempted to scare off the children that were playing and laughing within ear shot. Shortly thereafter, Mike came to me, grabbed my hand and asked me
to stand up. When I stood up, he dropped to one knee, told me how much he loved me and how he couldn't imagine his life without his best friend in it. "Will you marry me?" he asked. His nervousness and fidgeting dissipated immediately as he looked into my smiling, tearful eyes. I couldn't stop the tears, I couldn't stop smiling the biggest smile of my life as I said " Yes I will marry you, I love you so much," as he slipped the stunning diamond ring on my freshly manicured finger. My god it's beautiful! After several minutes of hugs and kisses, we decided to explore the rest of the resort. As a newly engaged couple, no one could have wiped the smiles off our faces that radiated the love in our hearts for one another. That was the beginning of the rest of our lives together and we couldn't be happier. We can't wait until May 28, 2016!
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the ideal place for you and your guests
Carly & Michael ~ August 23, 2014 www.bluerosedesigns.ca
newly renovated
jacuzzi . 32-inch flat screen tv . microwaves . refrigerators
dining at nick’s restaurant 1716 London Line, Sarnia 519-541-9400 1-800-221-5801 reservations@hojoSarnia.ca www.hojo.com
Hlaire & Jason ~ September 20, 2014 www.johnlyonsweddings.com
taking charge What’s the first thing you should do after you have taken your vows? Buy something. Proponents of symbolism claim that the first person to make a purchase will hold the family purse strings, but they always throw us a curve ball. They also claim that during the first toast, the one who finishes the drink first will rule the home. If you don’t want
to take any chances, sell your bouquet to your maid-of-honour, and buy it back as she returns it after the ceremony. The amount doesn’t matter, it just has to be a coin. As to finishing the drink first, what can I say? Chug-a-lugging a glass of champagne is not the daintiest move... but you gotta’ do what you gotta’ do.
Complimentary Continental Breakfast Wedding Group Rates Available Unique Waterfront Location
“Let your guests be our guests”.
505 Harbour Rd., Sarnia | 519-337-5434 1-800-787-5010 | www.sarniaharbourfront.com 84 accommodations
genie in the bottle Today, Electronic Scanning Systems bring shopping to a new level. All you have to do is aim and shoot. Future brides randomly scanning everything in reach makes for a humorous movie scene, and it looks like the ultimate shopping fantasy, but it demonstrates a wasted opportunity. At one time or another we have all played the “If a genie gave you three wishes...” game, and you probably thought carefully about your answer. A bridal registry is the game come true, and it deserves as much pondering as the three wishes. This genie will get you everything you want, but just like the imaginary genie, it’s a one time offer.
now what do I do? At one point or another, most future brides have nightmarish thoughts about their gown somehow being ruined on the wedding day, but this thought is usually fleeting, so the possibility is ignored, and the subject doesn’t come up again until it happens. On it’s day of glory, the gown will be exposed to food, drink, makeup, perfume and pollen. It will endure hugging, touching and brushing against countless people. The chances it would be actually ruined are slim to none, but it will feel that way if even the slightest smudge appears on your dream dress. Attempting to wipe away the offender is a natural first response, but sometimes that’s where the trouble begins. “First do no harm”. Whether it’s liquid, or solid, never try to rub it off. Rubbing only spreads the unsightly intruder and can force it deeper into fabric. With liquids, the instinct to reach for a napkin and blot is the right one, but for anything else, don’t panic, and take a moment to assess the situation before going into recovery mode. Emergency preparedness begins when you choose the gown. Learn about it’s fabric. Fabrics like silk can be marred by a splash of water, while most polyesters will withstand mud wrestling. If it’s OK to use water, can the material be dried with a hair dryer? Don’t forget the lining, and whether or not it will react differently. What type of emergency are you dealing with? Substances such as face powder, pollen from your bouquet, or icing sugar can be handled by shaking or it blowing off. Red wine should be dabbed gently (material permitting) with a white cloth that has been soaked in warm water. Begin at the outer edges and work your way to the centre of the stain. Lipstick, salad dressing, and buttercream icing are in the oily category. For these trickier mishaps, sprinkle the area with baby powder to absorb the oil and then brush it away. Keep repeating the process until as much of the oil as possible has been lifted.
You have enough things on your mind... So let us take care of your family and friends
Free Honeymoon Jacuzzi Suite for the Bride & Groom including Breakfast in Bed and late check-out.
Special Rates for your Guests Call for details. 815 Mara St. Point Edward | 519.383.6767 info@comfortinnsarnia.com | www.comfortinnsarnia.com These aren’t solutions to the problem, they are just ways not to make it worse. Have some white chalk in your emergency kit to help camouflage the offender, or bring along a stain removal product that is suited to the material of your gown. If in doubt - don’t. Unless you’re absolutely sure the treatment you are using is the right one, laugh it off and leave it alone. NOTE: If you want to preserve your gown, get it to the cleaners right away. A stain that is allowed to sit becomes more imbedded in the material and harder to remove.
chocolate dipped fruit trays
. custom cakes .
wedding cakes
chocolates cupcakes
Reeces Corner Plaza , Wyoming . 519-845-0620 . www.isntlifesweet.com 85
Let it stand alone. Wedding cakes that have been placed alongside plates, glasses, and cutlery lose their appeal. The cake is a show piece, and to be displayed to its greatest advantage, it needs a table of it’s own. The size of the display table is another crucial factor in the cake’s impact. No matter how spectacular, if the table is too large the cake will be dwarfed. A tall stand will give a small cake extra presence. For those of you who prefer to give the cake a grand entrance, have the DJ play something that is significant to you, dim the lights, light the sparklers and give them a display to remember. More than just dessert, the wedding cake is an integral part of any wedding. Let it steal the show. One thing brides often fail to consider is how the cake will look in the photographs. A white cake on a white table cloth will lack definition, an ivory gown will look dingy beside an all white cake, and a cake that is taller than the couple will make them appear short. For those few moments, the cake becomes a member of the wedding party, and just like the bridesmaids, it has to complement you in the photos. When a lot of fine craftsmanship has gone into the cake’s design, ask your photographer to get a few detail shots. 105 Mitton Street, S. 519-464-3990 amybourgon@hotmail.com www.bakemeacakesarnia.com
A long marriage is two people trying to dance a duet and two solos at the same time. Anne Taylor Flemming
the other main attraction Your wedding cake is the most meaningful, most beautiful and probably most expensive cake you will ever buy, and there are two ways to introduce it to it’s audience. It can be in the room as guests arrive, or kept secluded behind closed doors until the moment arrives. Both methods have their advantages. When the cake is openly displayed, admirers can gather around it, and view its splendor. When it’s kept behind-the-scenes it can make a sudden and spectacular appearance. Whichever way you choose to display your masterpiece, it will be the second centre of attention (the bride is always the first). Before heading out to your baker, think about the reception room and how its layout will affect the cake. Does it have high, or low ceilings? A tall cake in a room with a low ceiling can look out of place, and the opposite is true for a flatter cake in a room with a high ceiling. Get a clear image of the room, visualize the cake in it, and choose the design that will work best with the surroundings. Proportion is vital to the cake’s glory. When deciding on the placement of your cake table, look at what’s behind and around it. Like any great star it needs a great stage. Give it a place that is prominent, yet out of harms way. You can’t run the risk of someone bumping into it, and guests shouldn’t have to side-step it, but they should be able to spot it the moment they enter the room. Position it near the head table and it can’t be missed. If the cake is going to be displayed in a corner, make it a well lit corner. 86 bakeries
Andrea & Kevin ~ August 30, 2014 www.johnlyonsweddings.com
Kerry & Logan ~ July 26, 2014 www.bluerosedesigns.ca
beautiful
b
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brandon scott photography
every detail is in place to create the perfect wedding celebration for you and your guests off-site decorating rentals and catering now available afffordable & elegant wedding packages to suit your style & budget
250 National Road, Chatham
519-355-0806
www.clublentinas.ca
What to give was a dilemma that could be aided by asking the bride’s mother for gift advice. Mom could run down the list, but because it would appear impolite, she couldn’t be too specific, or ask which gift they would be giving so she could keep track. She could only relate the desired items, and pray they wouldn’t be repeated too often.
www.retrosuites.com
Gift registry to the rescue. It may be unseemly for Mom to inquire about which gift the guest will choose, but gift registries are overseen by strangers or computers, and no one is offended when they update the list in a way Mom never could. Couples are free to pick out their own gifts, duplicates are a problem of the last century, and guests are assured their gift is precisely what the couple wanted.
... and another crystal bowl There was a time when newly married couples actually needed almost every household item guests presented them with. Unmarried women usually still lived with their parents, and couples cohabitating before marriage was almost unheard of, so when the newlyweds were referred to as ‘starting out’, they really meant it. In an effort to help them get established, and having no idea what they wanted, the couple usually ended up with an abundance of sheets, flatware, and toasters.
A loving heart is the truest wisdom. Charles Dickens
Exquisite Food . Luxurious Accommodations . Elegant Atmosphere
complimentary
Deluxe Jacuzzi Suite . 2 Tastings Professionally Printed Seating Plan Indoor & Outdoor Ceremonies
Contact Heather Clare sales@guildwoodinn.com www.guildwoodinn.com 1400 Venetian Blvd., Point Edward 519 337-7577 88 banquet halls
Complimentary Guest Room for the
Bride & Groom All Inclusive Wedding Packages Special Room Discount for Guests
sarnia/point edward hotel and conference centre
Indoor & Outdoor Ceremonies 216 Guest Rooms including Jacuzzi Suites 2 Ballrooms Accommodating up to 440 Guests New Menu ~ Executive Chef on Site All Inclusive Bar Packages Geoff Hammond, Catering Manager 1498 Venetian Blvd. Point Edward 519-336-0248 1-888-212-2252 ghammond@fortisproperties.com www.hisarnia.ca
www.sawmill-creek.com
ceremonies
receptions
accommodations
ambiance
Banquet Hall: 2849 St. Clair Pkwy. 519-867-3333 | Inn: 2849 St. Clair Pkwy. 519-867-3999 | Sombra | bogeysinn.com
www.sgcc.on.ca
seating for up to 500 . room for up to 1000 custom designed menu . superior presentation and service 44 Willian St., N, Chatham | 519-355-1279 | fourdiamondcatering@hotmail.com | www.fourdiamondcatering.com
One Stop Shopping
for All of Your Wedding and Reception Needs
ceremonies & receptions
Your name in lights
by Imperial Theatre You've heard it over and over: your wedding is one of the most important days of your life. So how do you choose a venue that is just as special as you? By choosing the Imperial Theatre! When you think of the Imperial Theatre, the following things probably come to mind: red carpets, famous actors, your name in lights, and star quality. The Imperial Theatre can make your special day everything you want it to be and more; no matter what your vision, this venue has the ability to transform your wildest dreams into reality.
on our marquee
Advantages to booking the theatre for your wedding: • Artistic advice from experts who have worked with many of the industry’s top performers. • No need to hire a decorator since the theatre has what you need. • No need to add the cost of a DJ – the theatre includes this as part of the cost!
we handle your decorating lighting/sound, set-up & tear down 519-332-6591 ext 222 baustin@imperialtheatre.net www.imperialtheatre.net
Booking the Imperial Theatre makes planning your wedding so much easier. Forget the stress of having to juggle a ton of separate tasks for the big day. The Imperial takes care of most of the big items so you can rest easy and focus on more important things – like planning the rest of your life with the person you love most! So consider booking the Imperial Theatre for your wedding. Inquiries can be directed to Brian Austin at baustin@imperialtheatre.net or by calling the theatre at (519) 332-6591 Ext 222. Located at 168 Christina St., North, Sarnia
according to Guinness April 2011 Most live views for any event. With media build up, the marriage of Prince William and Catherine Middleton was the most anticipated, and most viewed event - ever. 72 million people in over 175 countries watched the wedding of the decade.
Event Centre
the perfect location to host your special day exceptional one on one service . multimedia diverse catering menu . unique atmosphere friendly, efficient and professional service
we will deal with all your logistical needs for a stress free day For more information, contact: Greg Lee 519-542-7751 ext. 3028 greg.lee@lambtoncollege.ca . www.lambtoncollege.ca/Services/Event_Centre/Home/ 94 banquet halls
2004 Most expensive. Somewhere in the $78 million range. With a father that’s in the top 10 richest people in the world, Vanisha Mittal spared no expense for her marriage to Amit Bhatia. The marriage took place in the Palace of Versailles. 45 chefs handled the six day event. 2009 Longest Wedding Veil. As a promotion for a 2014 wedding show, a model wore 15,373 feet of veil, but because it was an advertising event and not a wedding, the Guinness world record goes to Sandra Mechleb. She wedded Chandy Abi Younis in a veil that measured over 11,000 feet.
Links of Kent Golf & Event Center
your special day... with a view custom catering . banquet facilities accommodating up to 400 guests 120 Indian Creek Rd. W. Chatham | 519-351-3672 ext 3 | pro@linksofkent.com | www.linksofkent.com
perfect opportunity One of the fun things about a wedding is that you get to have a smaller celebration the night before. It’s sort of a pre-wedding bonus, and the ideal time to take advantage of having everyone together, possibly for the first time since the day you said “I will”. The rehearsal dinner is a relax and enjoy event, but it’s also the perfect time to tie up any loose ends.
www.qualityinnsarnia.com
With everyone in the same place at the same time, you are in finalization Shangri-la. You can go over the next day’s timeline, update everyone on any changes, and put your mind at rest about whether or not your aunt knows you changed the venue. And it gets better. With the details out of the way, it’s time to tell everyone how grateful you are for their support, how much you love them, and maybe even make a toast or two. You can top all that off by using the rehearsal dinner to present your gifts to your wedding party.
The
Gateway Room
“Sarnia’s Best Kept Secret”
enjoy our facility for... weddings ~ receptions luncheons ~ rehearsal dinners st. clair corporate centre 265 north front st., sarnia call jane for more information 519-344-9518
Enjoy the View! www.srcommunities.ca/commercial/st-clair-corporate-centre-gateway-conference-room 96 banquet halls
DanteC lub
Your Wedding & Event Headquarters
where dreams come true
weddings . bridal showers . ceremonies receptions . bridal room . customized menus let our experienced wedding planners create your wedding 1330 London Rd., Sarnia . 519-542-9311 . danteclub.management@cogeco.net . danteclubsarnia.ca
Every girl... deserves a Fascinator! complimentary hall rental when we operate the bar
by Carolyn Russell, Carolyn’s Creations For as long as I can remember, sewing has been my passion and through all my busy life I have always found time to fit it in. Now making Fascinators I have truly found what I love to do. I was originally inspired by Princess Kate and have been making Fascinators ever since. My Fascinators are very special, they are all original, making them one of a kind. They are all hand sewn and made in Canada!
Lambton Kent Memorial Agricultural Centre 1212 North St., Dresden | www.chatham-kent.ca For bookings call the Dresden Municupal Centre 519.683.4306
mirror, mirror on the wall - why is there only one of you? The bride and her attendants getting together to prepare for the day is the ultimate girl’s get-together, until you begin jostling for the mirror. Six females and one mirror is setting the stage for a nudging match. Most rooms, whether at home or at a hotel, have one mirror in the bedroom and one in the bathroom. Not nearly enough to keep the entourage from crushing each other in the push to make sure they have applied enough mascara. Beg, borrow, or buy extra mirrors and make sure at least one of them is full length.
Sydenham Ridge Estate barn and country wedding venues The estate grounds are lush, varied and natural, worthy of exploring walkabouts before and after the memorable events of the day. Lanes and pathways, trees and groves, ponds and charming settings abound. Our dining room has capacity to seat 200 guests comfortably for our delectable dinners and a unique elevated reception barn with bar looking out on the panoramic estate property showcasing some of the most breathtaking Southern Ontario sunsets ever experienced.
Women are wearing Fascinators to all occasions and I am grateful that I can be part of their special event. I can make them any way you want, with flowers, bling, feathers, plain or funky! I have made beautiful Fascinators for brides that they wear for the whole day and night or they wear a long veil for the ceremony, then a Fascinator for the reception. My work goes beyond brides, they are for mothers, bridesmaids, flower girls, guests, cocktail parties, church, dancing, all occasions including a special night out with a fun little hat. Find me on Facebook under 'Fascinators by Carolyn's Creations'. My Fascinators are very affordable and the most important part for me is that you are very happy and satisfied.
150-year-old barns dressed in romantic wedding dĂŠcor are the perfect setting for nature-loving couples. You can personally design your own outdoor ceremony on the surrounding acreage of farmland overlooking the fountain, or in the nearby little white chapel. Take beautiful wedding shots around the countryside, and finish the day with a gorgeous barn wedding reception.
519-899-3067
sydenhamridge@gmail.com www.underthegrapevine.ca
98 banquet halls
I have a selection to choose from or if a gal has an outfit or dress for any occasion together we will design her Fascinator from my stock and it will match perfectly! If she has an alteration done and can give me a little piece of the fabric I can incorporate that into her Fascinator. I can make your Fascinator as big or as small as you wish. Remember they are custom made so your Fascinator will be perfect for you.
Erin Woodgate Photography
Once Upon a time Weddings
2 Front St., W. Strathroy 519-245-7997 . www.onceuponatimeweddings.ca We welcome you to drop by beautiful downtown Petrolia. You will find great shopping and lots of treasures. But for an experience drop by our store. We believe in customer service. We believe that a home town store should be run by hometown people who love what they do. We offer unique Western Lifestyle, clothing for infants, men and women. The best quality suedes and leather jackets, and vests anywhere. Dresses, skirts, embroidered shirts, jeans and so much more. BUT WHAT WE DO BEST IS BOOTS! We stock over a hundred styles of boots. From toddler to men's size 12. We custom fit every pair. Our staff is well trained and well prepared to meet your satisfaction. Of course WEDDING PARTIES receive a discount on boots and attire when pre-registering. We outfitted over 13 wedding's last year with every request and loved the results as much as they did. Stop by and see us, mention this AD and receive a special thank you. Debb Pitel: Owner, Bits ‘N Buckles
Ladies
bags dresses belts wallets jewellery bling jeans
Men
shirts belts jeans suit coats jackets vests
www.bitsnbuckles.com
Cowboy Boots . Western Wear Western Cowboy Hats . Buckles Leather and Suede Jackets 4207 Petrolia Line, Petrolia 519-882-4609 debbpitel@hotmail.ca bridal shops/accessories 99
www.limbolouonge.ca
www.grindcafecatering.com
they’re going to ask... In addition to a gift, there’s one thing guests (especially guests who have over indulged) love to give at a wedding. Advice. It’s not that you don’t want their advice, it’s just that you don’t have the time right now. You have a lot of guests to attend to, you’re busy enjoying your wedding, and don’t really want to start being concerned about your future, at least not today. Once you’re trapped in a “Here’s what you should do” conversation it’s difficult to make a gracious withdrawal. Not getting involved in them in the first place is the only option. what catering was truly m e a n t to b e !
. rehearsal dinners . showers outdoor patio overlooking the thames river . up to 1000 guests receptions
425 Riverview Dr., Chatham | 519-354-5270 | www.casabellarestaurant.ca
Lengthy, advice laden, conversations often begin with: “Where are you going on your honeymoon?” “What are your future plans?” “Are you going to have kids?” Anyone of these seemingly innocent questions can lead to a no-escape-in-sight advice marathon. Have noncommittal answers at the ready: “Our honeymoon location is a secret”, “We’ll see what the future brings” and “We’re undecided” are good ways to sidestep an education on child rearing and stock options.
Love like there’s no tomorrow, and if tomorrow comes, love again.
Aristo’s Catering & banquet facilities
est. 1980
weddings . receptions showers . .rehearsal dinners
on & off-site catering ~ decorating services provided
free wedding consultations
Located at Smitty’s Family Restaurant
307 Grand Ave., W. Chatham 519-352-6266 info@aristoscatering.com www.aristoscatering.com
two banquet rooms pine room ~ seating up to 60 aristo banquet room ~ seating up to 200 102 caterers
Max Lucado
Something for every taste and budget from the area's catering specialist
voted #1 catering in south western ontario by foodpages.ca for 2014
Cassie & Kyle ~ June 21, 2014 Denise Blommestyn Photography
catering for every occasion with a wide range of menu options choose from our menu or design your own onsite banquet hall offsite catering
tablewear rentals chef mike barnes 900 Devine Street, Sarnia 519-491-8181
Amanda & Adam ~ June 4, 2014 www.johnlyonsweddings.com
eclipsecater@gmail.com www.eclipsecater.wix.com/eclipsecater
what happens to the flowers? When the wedding is over and the last guest has left the building, what happens to all those beautiful flowers? Just like who returns the tuxedos, or who collects the gifts, the destiny of the flowers has to be arranged in advance. Award the flowers to guests with an anniversary or birthday closest to the wedding day, or hold a draw. Award them to the couple who have been
married the longest, the second longest, and so on. Trivia games are also a good way to find homes for your blossoms. Have your MC ask questions about the bride and groom. The first one to answer gets the prize. Using questions that are fairly easy to answer (Where did the groom grow up? Where did the couple meet?) will entice everyone to join in. Add a touch of ‘Jeopardy’ by asking them to phrase their answers in the form of a question.
wedding planners One of the easiest ways to get to the alter with your wits intact, is to have a wedding planner guide you there. At first glance, hiring a planner may seem like nothing more than another way to spend money. On the contrary. Part of a wedding planner’s job is to find you the best deals possible, reign you in when desires exceed finances, and keep you on budget. Having a professional to oversee the details will give you time to enjoy your engagement. Most wedding planners offer a free consultation, it can’t hurt to ask.
A unique catering service offering innovative flavour combinations and customized menus to personalize your wedding.
Catering to weddings, showers, stag n’ does bachelor/bachelorette parties and rehearsal dinners for up to 150 guests.
Offering In-Home Cooking Classes
144 Mitton St, S. Sarnia | 519-344-7070 chefp@personaltoucheatery.ca | www.personaltoucheatery.ca caterers 103
specializing in full service custom one of a kind designs, that are as innovative as they are intimate ~ for every budget.
Your wedding day goes by in a blink of an eye. Why not make it the prettiest blink you’ve ever seen. from bridal bouquets and flowers to full room transformations, let our staff create something that’s truly unique to you.
519 491 2509 | www.signatureeventsbyrl.com | ryanlongo@signatureeventsbyrl.com
Your Event Design, Decor & Rental Destination
Weddings - Gala’s - Special Events With over 23 years’ experience why go anywhere else!
4490 Progress Drive, Petrolia 519-882-0466
www.par-tee.com
wedding planner on site over 1000 invitations ideas fresh & silk wedding flowers
glory days For the past one or two years you have planned for, talked about, dreamed of, and concentrated all your energy on the wedding. You have been the centre of attention, and everyone around you has been anxious to please, and do your bidding. That’s a lot to give up, and when it’s time to make the transition from getting married to being married you may find yourself feeling somewhat gloomy. You are not alone. Post-wedding letdown is relatively common, and fully understandable. Who wouldn’t miss the glory of it all? During the wondrous days of gown shopping, and cake tasting, it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that the wedding is a one day event, and when it’s over, life will abruptly return to normal. In a romantic sense, we have been conditioned not to think beyond the happy ending. The couple riding off into the sunset is a Hollywood classic, and we don’t know, or even wonder about, what happens after that. Feeling a little disoriented when it’s all over shouldn’t come as a surprise.
full service ceremony
& hall decorating
Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Customer Service Award Winner
208 N. Front St., Sarnia 519-339-1414 . 1-877-778-3555 www.lapiersflowers.com
A morning after breakfast or post-honeymoon luncheon will help ease the decent from cloud nine to terra firma, and if you still have the planning bug, begin working on a first anniversary party or a vacation. With a little time and something to redirect your attention, happy endings will transition into happy beginnings.
www.tosuityourfancy.com
106 decorators
Smile! Cause now you can relax, we will take it from here! Complete Room Decor for Weddings and Events Exquisite Bouquets ~ Custom Designed ~ Centrepieces ~ Backdrops
519-869-6726 . exquisitelydesigned@yahoo.ca . www.exquisitelydesigned.ca
Specializing in Vintage Chic Wedding Decor
centrepieces . bouquets . backdrops . linens . rentals
519-899-3067 | www.underthegrapevine.ca
help the bride decide Unsure of how you will wear your hair? Torn between a tiara and a fascinator? It’s time to revert to your childhood. Remember when you were a little girl how much fun you had when your friends came to play dress-up? Do it again. Invite your bridesmaids to an evening of trying hairdo’s and experimenting with makeup. It’s fun, frivolous, a huge help in finalizing decisions, and there’s one added benefit - this time you can serve wine.
suitability When your heart is set on that sexy, slinky, backless number, but your minister turned red when he heard about it, meet reverence half way with a cover up. Besides showing respect for your venue, it adds drama to your grand entrance. Entering the room with a new husband, and a killer dress that is being seen for the first time is the ultimate wow factor. sunset wedding Planning to be married just as the sun sets. Go to www. sunrisesunset.com to find out exactly what time the sun will set on your wedding day.
did you know? Your future husband’s college year book will give you an indication of whether or not he will be a good partner in marriage. A 2009 study discovered that the people with the biggest smiles had more stable marriages than the grumpier grads. To symbolize Earth’s four directions, Navaho brides wore a dress woven in four colours, and along with over 40 other cultures around the world, they faced east because it is thought to be the direction of new beginnings. Jacqueline & Ryan ~ February 14, 2015 www.bluerosedesigns.ca
“I plight thee my troth.” Sounds romantic doesn’t it? It seems to mean a promise of love and devotion for all eternity. I hate to be the bearer of bad tidings but it only means agreement to a legal arrangement - bummer. Around 490 B.C. in Athens, unmarried men were excluded from some public positions. In Sparta they were treated with disdain. 500 years later it didn’t get much easier for bachelors when Rome’s Emperor Augustus instated laws compelling men to marry, and penalized those who didn’t. Superstitious numerologists believe that odd numbers hold auspicious powers, so guest lists should end with an uneven number. Attention elder sisters. When a younger sister marries first, her elder sister is in danger of being cursed with spinsterhood. But she can shimmy her way out of this if she dances barefoot at the wedding.
Alayna & Grant ~ October 4, 2014 www.johnlyonsweddings.com 108 decorators
When Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier in 1956, her father paid a $2 million dollar dowry. That’s around $17 million in today’s dollars, but Grace’s father got off easy. When Catherine of Braganza married England’s Charles II in 1662 it cost her father Tangier, Bombay and trading rights with Brazil and the East Indies. What do you suppose that’s worth in today’s money?
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Call our office today at 519-344-5747! Dr. John D. McFadyen D.D.S.
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that many people can’t be wrong When asked about their honeymoon plans, the couple replied “Nothing much, maybe just Niagara” as though Niagara wasn’t worth getting excited about. Do you suppose the residents of Colorado say “Just the Grand Canyon”, or that the people of Japan say “Just Mount Fuji”? They probably do. When one of nature’s most majestic sites is practically in your backyard, becoming desensitized to its grandeur is easy. It’s ironic that here in Ontario we take Niagara for granted, and prefer to honeymoon elsewhere, while engaged couples around the world dream of honeymooning at ‘The Falls’. The point is, if you’re looking for a spectacular place to go on your honeymoon, but don’t want to be still paying for it on your 25th anniversary, Niagara Falls may be your answer.
Photograph courtesy: Wendy Osborne
This legacy of the last Ice Age is the most powerful falls in North America and one of the most spectacular sights on earth. One fifth of the world’s fresh water lies in the Great Lakes, and on it’s journey to the Atlantic, approximately 567,000 liters (150,000 gallons) of water thunders over Niagara every second. In addition to it’s staggering flow, Niagara is
believed to be the world’s fastest moving falls, and has eroded back seven miles in the past 12,000 years. Every year at least 10 million (estimates vary between 10 and 20 million) visitors view Niagara’s splendor and around 50 thousand get married there. Since 1804, when Napoleon Bonaparte’s brother, Jerome, visited Niagara on his honeymoon, and returned to France with glowing reports, Niagara has been known as the honeymoon capital of North America. The breathtaking beauty of this geological marvel makes it a perfect honeymoon destination for Ontario newlyweds. It is awe inspiring, nearby, romantic, and you are almost guaranteed to see a rainbow. Trivia 1848. The mighty Niagara stopped for 30 hours when strong winds, and millions of tons of ice, jammed it’s source. 1860. Edward, Prince of Wales (future King Edward VII of England) visited Niagara. It was the first royal tour of North America made by an heir to the throne. 1901. Annie Taylor, a 63 year old schoolteacher from Michigan, was the first to go over the falls in a barrel, and unlike three of the six adventurers who followed her lead, she lived to tell the tale. 1918. A barge became lodged upstream from the falls, and because of the expense and danger involved in salvaging, it was decided to let winter ice force it free. ‘Old Scow’ became it’s nickname and it’s still there. 1953. With the Niagara in the background, another one of nature’s wonders, Marilyn Monroe, walked away from the camera and into movie history. Marilyn’s walk is the longest on screen exit ever filmed. The movie was named (what else?) ‘Niagara’. disc jockey 111
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what’s a mother to do?
his mom
When a son or daughter becomes engaged, the respective mothers can be left wondering what they are supposed to do first. Even with today’s laid -back approach to weddings, when the families don’t know each other, following protocol helps ease the transition from strangers to practically related.
Traditionally, first contact is made by the mother of the groom. As soon as the nuptials are announced, a call from his mother to hers will get the ball rolling. An invitation to dinner or arranging to meet in a restaurant is also in his mother’s court. If the bride’s parents live far away, following the first phone call with a letter and some pictures of the groom as a child is a thoughtful touch. Wedding planning can’t proceed until the guest list is complete, so a timely and detailed (right down to the postal codes) list of guests from the grooms mother is imperative. She is also responsible for making accommodation arrangements for the out-of-town guests on her list. her mom
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The bride’s mother has the honour of choosing her wedding attire first. She gets to decide on long or short, formal, or informal, but she needs to do this quickly to give his mom time to do her shopping, and the groom’s mother should follow suit by selecting an outfit that will complement the mother of the bride’s choice. Following these simple traditions will get the family bonding ball rolling, and being in the inner circle of information, the bride’s mother can maintain it’s momentum by making sure his mom is informed and included.
dance lessons For your first dance, what type of dance is it going to be? You can simply have the DJ play your song and sway to the music, or you can give your guests a show with a fabulous rendition of the Samba. Dance lessons are especially beneficial for fiancés who believe real men don’t dance. Sorry honey, you’re going to have to.
I really didn’t need to see that Weddings are, in part, about creating a fairy tale world. The decorations, candles, and flowers are meant to take everyone away from everyday reality, and into the realm of ‘happily ever after’. On your wedding day, you are the princess in the story, and everyone wants to see you in that role from the first reel to the last. The look of love on your face, and the gracious way you behaved with your subjects, are the memories they should take home with them, and relate to others when asked “How was the wedding?” Five things that will bring the dream crashing down.
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The angry bride. No matter what happens, never let them see you frown, or raise your voice to anyone. Hopes for your future happiness are out the window for any guest who sees a bride looking as if she’s about to butcher someone. Bossy bride. You are in charge and have to oversee a lot of details, and it’s very easy to get a little frantic when the pressure’s on, but remember, things will get done every bit as well if you ask nicely, and no one will feel pity for the groom. Make a sailor blush bride. Admittedly, course language has made its way into our everyday conversation, but it has no place on your wedding day. No princess, real or fantasy, ever used bawdy language.
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Beer bottle bride. Regardless of your normal way of enjoying a brew, on this day, use a glass. Even if there’s nothing better than a plastic cup available it beats seeing the bride take a swig from a bottle. Canned drinks are almost as illusion shattering. Tipsy bride. Have you ever noticed the strange thing that happens to an otherwise perfect wedding gown when the bride has over indulged. It’s almost as if the dress is plastered too. It goes all lopsided, looks like it’s on the wrong person, and is trying to escape to find it’s rightful owner. Keep your audience dazzled with your gracious behaviour and your guests will say “It was beautiful” instead of “You won’t believe this”.
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groom’s cake On a day when everyone’s attention is centered on the bride, the groom’s cake shines a little of the spotlight in his direction. Victorian England appears to be the origin of the cake, but it is more frequently associated with the Southern United States. When the people of Dixie adopted the idea, groom’s cakes took on a new life. They became original in design and designed for fun.
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The groom’s cake is traditional, but it’s a tradition with no rules attached. The groom can choose it himself or his bride can surprise him. It can be served at the rehearsal dinner, wrapped and given as favours at the wedding, or saved for an afterthe-wedding get together. It can be shaped like his car, golf clubs or favourite tie. With this much freedom to do what you want with his cake, make a ceremony of cutting it too. Dim the lights, play his favourite tune have it rolled into the room. It’s another way to personalize your day.
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Planning a wedding can be an exciting time as well as an emotionally & physically draining time. It can get hard to manage work, family, bridal showers, wedding planning, dress fittings, life, etc. You have no time for yourself, you are getting stressed, always sick, not sleeping, not eating properly, no time for exercise. You feel that you can barely function at work. Well, there is light at the end of that tunnel! One session on the NeuroSpa can help relieve your stress, provide deep relaxation, and may prevent you from running yourself further into the ground and getting sick.
In the first few minutes of the NeuroSpa treatment, the audible music has a captivating effect. After ten minutes or so, the intracorporal music directly communicates with the central nervous system gradually replacing tensions from previously accumulated stress to drastically reduce its damaging effects. Once connected to the central nervous system, the internal music replaces the unwanted commands of stress on the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems to release permanent muscular tensions at their base and promote regular breathing and heart rate. Finally, the inner multi-frequency sensations reach body organs and glands to undo the harmful command patterns that were induced daily by stress.
What is the NeuroSpa? The NeuroSpa was developed over many years of research on the positive impacts of music on the human brain and body. It is indeed the first therapeutic device allowing the production of intracorporal music (multi-frequency acoustic vibrations) synchronized with conventional music. Intracorporal music which spreads over the entire body through the nervous system is perceived through the base of the spine, on the surface of the skin, and through hearing.
Ahhh! Stress Relief was never easier. If you would like to experience the equivalent of a full days rest you can book an appointment in the NeuroSpa at Calm ‘n ScentsŽ. The NeuroSpa is a great gift to de-stress yourself and your entire wedding party prior to the big day.
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Ideally, the night before your wedding will be quiet with plenty of time to relax. The only way this is going to happen is if everything is finalized in advance. This sounds like ‘wedding planning 101’, but it’s amazing how many brides are scrambling to pull things together at 2:00 am.
ANGELA SEKERIS
You hear about it all the time at receptions. Sad tales of no sleep, excuses for looking worn out, and apologies for forgetting the place cards. Everyone sympathizes and understands, but the blushing bride isn’t blushing, she’s red faced from the stress (maybe that’s where the expression came from).
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blowing in the breeze A wedding gown swaying gently in the breeze makes for a beautiful image, but under windy conditions, fine silks and weightless chiffons will blow like an uncontrolled sail. If you don’t want to look like Marilyn Monroe standing on the subway vent, choose a gown that is less billowy, or a material that has a little more substance and will stay down when the wind picks up.
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No matter how small the task, don’t leave it until the night before. While you envision, and plan for, a relaxing evening with only a few little things to finish up, it may not turn out as arranged, and at midnight you still have to write notes on the favours. Allow for the unexpected. There’s no way to assure that the rehearsal dinner won’t run late, your phone won’t be ringing, or friends won’t be stopping by. Hopefully your evening will turn out exactly as planned, and on your wedding day you won’t say “Sorry” even once!
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gown shopping 101 Shopping for your pièce de résistance (a.k.a. wedding gown) can be one of the most exhilarating, or one of the most discouraging experiences of your life. Too many opinions, expectations that are too high, or trying on too may gowns, are some of the mistakes that can lead to disappointment. Disappointment in the gown? It doesn’t get any worse than that. This is the most important gown you will ever wear, and it not only has to be perfect, the memories surrounding it have to be perfect too.
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No matter how much you want to have the gown, remember the old adage ‘Getting there is half the fun’ and give it some time and thought before venturing out to the wondrous world of the bridal salon. Everything associated with the gown, dreaming of it, shopping for it, wearing it, should be filled with happy memories. Practicality. In the excitement of the impending day, visions of wedding gowns will be dancing in your head, and you may feel compelled to fulfill your craving. Perfectly understandable under the circumstances, however it’s better to wait until a cooler head prevails. Take the time to finalize your season, location, number of guests etc. before letting the fantasies take reign. Preparation. Browse before you leap. Materials, styles, levels of formality. There’s a mind-boggling selection out there, and if you don’t want gown shopping to become your day job, narrow down your preferences. Sleek and simple or full and extravagant? Antique lace or taffeta with ruching? Defining your personal preferences narrows the search. Flexibility. While having a clear idea of what you want in a wedding gown is good, so is listening to another opinion. Refusing to consider advice is as big a mistake as being swayed by advice. It can’t hurt to try it on.
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Expectations. If you keep waiting for that magical moment when the gown speaks to you, your search could turn into a never ending quest. Some brides report being overcome by a flood of emotion when they found the right one, but it’s not as common as we are led to believe. For the most part, an uncontrollable crying jag over finding the gown is a creation of television’s need for a dramatic ending. Wait for your reflection to bring tears to your eyes and you could be waiting a long time. If you really love the gown, but it doesn’t make you cry, don’t stress over the lack of a breakdown. Maybe you’re just not the type. Finalization. Gown shopping can be like a drug that you just can’t get enough of. It’s so much fun, you look forward to it every day, it calls to you in the night, and you look amazing in every gown. Who would want to give that up? Sadly, there comes a time when you have to make a choice, but your shopping educed brain may keep calling you back. It’s commonly known as second guessing. Once you have made the decision, be strong, don’t give in, and if necessary, call a friend who can offer support by telling you what a great choice you made. Hang tough.
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As for you, now that you’ve updated your marital status on Facebook (so long, single!) and splashed pictures of your nuptials all over Twitter and Instagram (#justmarried #heputaringonit #bigweddinghairdontcare), don’t forget to let the CRA know about your trending marital status. While the CRA doesn’t accept name changes via hashtag, you can update your status on the CRA’s My Account service, submit Form RC65, Marital Status Change, which can be easily found online at www. cra.gc.ca/forms, or call 1-800-959-8281. The CRA has reserved a portion of its website for life events like marriage and the changes to your tax situation they can cause. Head to the CRA’s life events page for more detailed information. Once you’re back from your honeymoon and have written all the thank-you cards, your life as a married couple can really begin. If you’ve bought a home together or are moving into a new place, let the CRA guide you through an address change, claiming the First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit, reporting rental income, or accounting for expenses related to the business use of your home. To get the complete information for homeowners, go to www.cra.gc.ca/myhome. And if you’re now opening a joint bank account with your new spouse, don’t forget to update your direct deposit information to make sure your benefits and refunds go to the right place. And if you’re not already using direct deposit, you should both start now. If you file your taxes online and sign up for direct deposit, you may receive your tax refund in as little as eight business days! For more information, go to www.cra.gc.ca/directdeposit.
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Say “I do” to filing your taxes The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has a deal with bridal consultants across the country: the CRA won’t give advice on whether you should choose the strapless princess ball gown in tulle or the sweetheart mermaid gown in lace for the bride's wedding day, and bridal consultants won’t try to explain the contribution limits to a spousal or common-law partner registered retirement savings plan, how to change your name, or, if you are blending your families, what you need to do to receive or change the Canada child tax benefit payments. The CRA does know you should not say “I do” to participating in the underground economy. You may think you are getting a deal by paying cash and avoiding taxes for such things as flowers, catering, or even your dream venue, but it can leave you with no proof of payment or recourse, should a goods or services provider not fulfil their obligations. Not to mention, if you are caught evading taxes, you may face fines, penalties, or potential jail time. Save yourself the trouble and don't participate in the underground economy. Under-the-table deals undermine the integrity of Canada's tax system. They deprive the Government of funds for vital programs that benefit all Canadians, including children and seniors. They also provide unscrupulous contractors with an unfair, illegal advantage over those who follow Canada's tax laws. 118 invitations
Taxes not your strong suit? You can always authorize your new spouse to act as your representative for income tax matters. That means they can file your return for you or contact the CRA to make enquiries on your behalf. Use the "Authorize my representative" online service in My Account or submit Form T1013, Authorizing or Cancelling a Representative. The ‘big day’ your personal income tax return is due is April 30, 2016. If either you or your new spouse is self-employed, the deadline is June 15, 2016. However, if you’re self-employed and have a balance owing for 2015, you have to pay it on or before April 30, 2016. Now that you’re officially ‘together forever’ there are so many more important dates to remember…anniversaries, birthdays, date nights… you get the idea. The CRA can’t help remember those, but it can provide you with friendly reminders of tax deadlines, if you own a small or mediumsized business. With the new CRA Business Tax Reminders app, available free of charge on Apple iOS, Google Android, and Blackberry mobile platforms, you won’t miss an important date again. The app allows you to create reminders and alerts for key CRA due dates, such as instalment payments, returns, remittances, and other tax-related business matters, so you won’t get burned by penalties and interest. With all these services available online (and on your mobile!), it’s easy to stay on top of your tax affairs year-round. This year, you can also file online using NETFILE. The CRA has a list of certified software packages on their site, including some that are free. To find out more, go to www.netfile.gc.ca. Congratulations on your wedding, and many happy (tax) returns! Don’t miss the latest CRA news or tax tips—follow the CRA on Twitter: @CanRevAgency
tipping point Somewhere between “I will” and “I do” a strange phenomenon can take over the minds of normally sane women. This malady is known as Bridezilla-itis. Not everyone is susceptible, but those who are stricken can usually trace its onset to a specific point in time. In the film version of “Sex and the City”, what began as a small intimate wedding became the main event of the New York season. When John (Big) asked Carrie how the wedding got so out of hand, she replied “It’s the dress”. Carrie hit the proverbial nail on the head. Brides frequently report that the last thing they can remember was finding their wedding gown. After that everything is a complete blur, and it took a huge credit card bill to shock them back into reality. The symptoms of Bridezilla-itis include: going on a year long spending binge, being overly demanding, and occasionally forgetting the groom’s first name. The moonstruck bride begins stopping strangers to tell them about the wedding, can be seen wandering around malls - credit card in hand, and the slightest upset sends her into a crying jag. In more serious cases, she wants to make her grand entrance on the back of an elephant, and insists on having the wedding personally catered by Gordon Ramsay. Powerless grooms can only watch, wait, and hope that the magic words “I do” will restore her to the person he fell in love with. If you suspect you are about to come down with a case of Bridezilla-itis, ask a trusted friend to hide your credit and ATM cards. Do not return them until the symptoms have diminished, and you can be trusted not to buy outrageously expensive wedding attire for your cat.
ruby slippers One of the ways brides are showing their individuality, and a touch of whimsy, is with a fabulous pair of shoes that peek out from under the gown with a burst of colour. Very chic, with a hint of humour. They’re not just beautiful shoes, they’re interesting, and a little mysterious. Interesting because you only get a glimpse every now and again. Mysterious because they are a partially hidden splash of colour, and the inspiration behind them will rouse everyone’s curiosity. Keep the shoes intriguing by making them unique to the rest of your ensemble. Trying to pick up the colour with a hairpiece, or matching ribbon on the gown takes away from the impact. The shoes should (excuse the pun) stand alone. If you’re going to let loose with a fab pair of shoes, be prepared to explain them at the reception. Everyone will want to know the secret behind your ruby slippers. invitations 119
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“a must lie situation” The invitation was addressed only to the couple, and stated ‘Adult Wedding’ in large clear lettering, along with ‘We have reserved 2 seats in your honour’, and still the RSVP came back with ‘and family’ added in. Without even knowing it, you could have a few ‘children or bust’ people on your guest list, and some might threaten to shun you if you don’t comply with their ‘where we go - they go’ policy. Future couples usually have childfree weddings for one of two reasons. Either budget and/or space limits it to adults, or they are concerned about the disruption factor. They don’t want to risk a toddler-tantrum at the worst possible moment (kids have expert timing), and the vows being drowned out by high pitched screeching that can be detected by whales in the mid-Atlantic. As children, our parents, teachers, and spiritual leaders taught us that it was wrong to lie, but the ‘Ugly Baby’ episode on ‘Seinfeld’ pointed out that sometimes in life, lying is the only acceptable thing you can do. You can’t tell people their baby is ugly, and you can’t tell them you simply don’t want their offspring at your wedding. “It’s a must lie situation.” If you receive an RSVP that was intended for two, but returned for six, call the parents in question, and begin the conversation with something like “I’m sorry, there must be some misunderstanding” (first lie, you know darn well they didn’t misunderstand). “We would love to have them (second lie), but we simply don’t have the room, and no one else is bringing children” (possible third lie). With the exception of your flower girl and ring bearer, when it comes to inviting children to the wedding, it’s all or nothing. Either everyone gets a ‘plus family’ or no one does. Before sending out your invitations, contact the child rearing guests on your list, and do a little reconnaissance. Let them know that the invitation is on its way, and that you’re sorry (oops, another lie) but this is an adult occasion. This will give you a heads up on who will cooperate, and who will take the ‘if they’re not welcome, we’re not welcome’ stance. Citing budget
and space constraints will help persuade most guests that omitting children is not entirely your choice, and there’s nothing you can do to change it (an erroneous assumption on their part doesn’t count as a lie on yours). As a last resort you could offer to hire a sitter for the day. Sometimes, when they see how accommodating you are trying to be, they will retreat. When faced with parents who stubbornly refuse to attend unless you invite the entire clan, you may be forced to end the conversation with “I’m so sorry you won’t be able to join us” (fifth lie?). Children are adorable but they are also unpredictable, so if you prefer a child-free wedding it’s entirely your decision. “Not that there’s anything wrong with that.”
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space Undoubtedly you have left plenty of time to get ready on your wedding day, but have you left enough space? While prepping for the most important day in your life, the last thing you want to deal with is overcrowding. When too many people meet too little space, shoes have a way of hiding under things, and
jewellery can disappear altogether. Recovering the missing item results in wasted time and undue stress. Ample space assures that nothing will be pushed aside and when you need it, it will be exactly where it you left it.
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go the distance For some guests who attend your wedding there will be travel involved, some have invested in new outfits for the occasion, some have hired baby sitters. They have all purchased a gift, and given up their day for the honour of seeing you get married. It may be your day, but it’s their attendance that make the celebration successful, and everyone likes to know their efforts are appreciated. The perfect way to show how much you care is with personal touches and thoughtful gestures. Take the time to assure everyone’s comfort and accommodate individual needs, and your guests will love you for it. It’s a sure way to win “That’s the best wedding I have ever been to” raves. Not everyone who comes to your wedding can be
involved in your wedding, but you can make them feel as though they are by going the extra mile. Flowers in the washrooms along with a basket of primping goodies. Perfume, hair spray, baby powder, breath mints, and some high quality tissues are guaranteed to make them feel special. Personalized favours. Perhaps you can’t give individual favours, but you can make favours individual. A favour at each place setting, complete with a tag bearing their name, will personalize each one, and they can double as place cards. Encourage guests to let you know about special dietary needs or allergies. You don’t have to go into detail, you only have to inquire if they have any food preferences, or if there is anything else you can do for their comfort. Every princess must greet her subjects, but at some weddings, especially if they are large, getting a chance to thank everyone personally becomes an impossible task. If there are too many people, or not enough time, do what the royals do, split up and work both sides of the room. Still not able to complete the task? Find a microphone and give a collective thank you.
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Someone to stay and arrange for rides is the best personal touch of all. You’re not only taking care of their needs you are making sure they are safe.
serenity now If you believe half of what you read, planning a wedding will be fraught with difficulties, family members will drive you to distraction, and you are predestined to go berserk on countless occasions. But how many people do you know that actually had near fatal breakdowns because of wedding planning? Probably not any. There will be a few times that things don’t go as expected, and there may be disappointments along the way, but with organization and a little assistance, it can be smooth sailing. Contrary to popular belief, planning your wedding can be one of the most enjoyable times in your life, if you approach it with the right attitude. Before your planning commences, determine that you are headed in the right direction. Are you sure your family is on board with an outdoor wedding? Do you know if your future in-laws have special traditions to be honoured? Get the lowdown on all the family preferences before making arrangements that could fall apart later. Give yourself time. Asking a bride to wait a year or two for her wedding is like asking a child to wait for Christmas. Both are dizzy with anticipation, and both want the day to arrive ASAP! Planning a wedding for the first available date puts you on the fast track, but sets you up for chaos. When your inner child rears its impatience head, remember ‘The Tortoise and The Hare’ fable you learned in nursery school. Slow and steady wins the race.
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considerate shopper When heading out to the wondrous world of the bridal salon, keep in mind that almost everything in the store will be white, and at the mercy of makeup, unclean hands and perfumes that can destroy their pristine state. Make your salon staff smile when you arrive rather than run for stain remover. Forgo makeup that can smudge, perfume that can taint, and don’t touch unless you know your hands are clean enough to perform surgery.
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Accept that not everything may live up to your dreams, and there may be times you will have to let fantasy meet reality half way. If it’s not possible, not available, or not in the budget, c’est la vie. Don’t try to be Wonder Woman. Brides who boast about how they did it all themselves are proud of their achievement, but exhausted from the process. Most of their post-wedding narrative ends with “If I had to do it again, I would just elope”. Get all the volunteers you can, and delegate.
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fortheguys
choose your team
Blush Photography
You’ve got to know when to hold ‘em Know when to fold ‘em Know when to walk away And know when to run
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Kenny Rogers ‘The Gambler’ (as if you didn’t know)
Kenny’s advice to gamblers can be translated into good advice for grooms who want their brides to have the best wedding possible... The wedding of her dreams.
When to hold ‘em When you have been dealt all the cards (chores) you can handle, and you’re happy with your hand, play them out before volunteering for more. Grooms not making arrangements on schedule is one of the chief complaints among future brides. In an effort to get involved, and show how deeply they care, grooms can make the mistake of taking on too much only to discover it’s taking longer than anticipated. Unfulfilled promises are an argument waiting to happen. If you volunteer for a chore, get it done on schedule and then you can come back for more. Good man! When to fold ‘em No man ever says “I have been dreaming about my wedding day since I was a child”, but a lot of women have, and while you may have opinions on the wedding, she has dreams to fulfill. There’s a fine line between being involved and being demanding. If she doesn’t want to plan the colour theme around your favourite football team, or hold the wedding on a golf course - game over. When to walk away Strong opinions on her style of wedding gown? Distinct ideas on the cake? There are some parts of the wedding that the bride will consider her domain, and grooms who venture into her territory are playing with ‘aces and eights’. It’s time to walk away, and let her retain the mystery of her once-in-a-lifetime day. When to run Your friends want to hold a mind blowing party the night before the wedding. The ushers want to haze the bride by pretending you haven’t arrived, or by telling her the cake has been ruined. Run as fast as you can. Refuse to get involved in anything that could jeopardize her happiness and let everyone know that pranks will not be appreciated. The stress caused by practical jokes will put a damper on the entire day, and in all the dreams she has had about her wedding, not once did the groom have a world class hangover.
There’s more to being in the groom’s wedding party than putting on a suit and dancing the night away. The groom’s party plays a major role in making sure the wedding runs smoothly. The best man is the groom’s right hand for the duration of the planning, and the ushers are key back-ups. Picking your men on the basis of ‘best buddies’ may not be the way to go. If your closest friend is notorious for being late, or famous for his practical jokes, he probably isn’t the man for you, and if you must let him play a part, give him a lesser role where he can do less damage. In addition to being helpful and dependable during the planning stage, when the day arrives, the groom’s party will have to demonstrate their social skills. Ushers are expected to attend to guests’ needs, and do their best to assure that everyone feels welcome and has a great time. Choosing your ‘shy guy’ friend for the job may be subjecting him to torture. Groomsmen can be even more nervous than the groom when faced with the responsibility of acting as secondary host to a large group of strangers. Picking the right man for the right job will make your life, and his, easier.
manage your team Aside from looking good, and smiling a lot, most of the men in your posse won’t have any idea what’s expected of them. It’s up to the groom to lead the way and oversee results. Never assume that a chore has been accomplished on the basis of a promise. Even the most dedicated best man can forget or misunderstand instructions.
The bridal registry may appear to come under the heading of ‘her stuff’. Not so. In addition to pots, pans and dishes, a home needs tools too. Don’t miss this opportunity to add some man stuff to the selection. 126
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the look on their faces
Sunday, March 6, 1955 in Luton Bedfordshire, England, Pam Hattan wed Brian Hill.
Saturday, March 6, 2015 they celebrated 60 years of a long and happy marriage.
Their advice for a successful marriage
Pam sense of humour
Brian yes dear
tolerance patience say you love him often don’t hold a grudge
do as i’m told help with everything always agree stay in love
Heaven’s
Wildlife
I broke my leg
We were cold
I was hungry
We lost our mom
Rescue
If you’re the type who likes to shout things from the mountaintops, thinks cell phones replace the wheel as man’s greatest invention, and plans to post, post, post as soon as he proposes, you may want to think twice before hitting the keys. You could be robbing yourself of some of life’s most precious moments. The excitement on your friend’s face when you tell her you are engaged, or the love in your sister’s eyes when you ask her to be your maid-of-honour. These are moments that have to be witnessed. You can’t treasure a text response, or look back lovingly on an email.
take a moment Before the doors swing open and you walk down the aisle, have one last ‘just us girls’ moment. They have reached the culmination of all their hard work, and have delivered you safely, and sanely, to the portal of your new life. This is the perfect time to let them know how wonderful you think they are, how fantastic they all look, and how much you appreciate their time and patience throughout your journey.
helping injured and abandoned animals since 2011
We need your help
by Giving donations as wedding favours you help care for these animals Donations can be sent to: Heaven’s Wildlife Rescue P.O. Box 119, Oil Springs, ON. N0N 1P0 Volunteer applications can be found online at: www.heavenswildliferescue.org 128
please don’t... ... require guests to wear name tags. Everyone is capable of interacting without a sign that says “Hello, my name is...”, and no one ever wants to wear one. Name tags never enhance an outfit, no piece of jewellery ‘works’ with them, and they leave a sticky residue on fabric. Anyone wearing Armani will be horrified at the request. (A query. The name tag’s purpose in life is to encourage everyone to mingle, but has anyone ever known it to work? Does having your name written across your chest entice people to talk to you? And why does everyone feel compelled to read them? Making eye contact is the first law of social interaction, but charming them with your baby blues is out the window when your eyes are fixated on a name tag.) ... cake smash. Since the days of Vaudeville, a pie in the face has reigned as the ultimate humiliation, and for some baffling reason this messy maneuver has found its way into weddings in the form of cake. Why would anyone want to take a custom made, finely detailed, hand decorated, tiered masterpiece, and shove it into a loved one’s face? The jury is still out on whether cake smashing is funny, tacky, or a sign that the marriage is already in jeopardy. To smash, or not to smash, is a matter of personal choice.
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heads up Stating ‘outdoor wedding’ on the invitations is not specific enough to let guests know exactly what they will encounter. ‘Outdoors’ can mean a lot of things. A beach, a backyard, a local park, or in the woods. Guests need to know in advance exactly which type of outdoors you mean. Be clear on where the ceremony will be held by adding the words ‘on the beach’, ‘in the park’, or ‘in the forest’ to your invitations. A sandy beach is no place for a new pair of Ferragamos and your guest will appreciate the ‘sand’ alert.
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Include an insert in your invitations reminding everyone to bring sunglasses, a hat, or a shawl for evening. Include anything you think they may need if they are going to be exposed to nature, and have some of these things on hand for guests who forget. Supply the sun screen and bug spray for them (‘Bring bug spray’ just doesn’t look good in an invitation). When dreams include a wedding in the woods, check out the woods. Do the trees shed pollen at that time of year? Will they be releasing sap? Nature is magnificent, but she can also be messy.
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living on the edge Love paragliding off towering cliffs? Adore bungee jumping into shark infested waters? If you have a wedding in the making, and live to look providence in the eye, here are some ideas for your ‘ways to tempt fate’ playbook. Let all your girlfriends have a chance to wear your engagement ring. Supposedly, a friend who tries on your ring will steal your fiancé. Letting them all try it on is the engagement version of Russian roulette. Put your luck to the test by writing your married name on every scrap of paper you can find. Randi & Steve ~ September 13, 2014 www.johnlyonsweddings.com
Shop for your wedding rings on Friday the 13th. A ring that is too loose symbolizes a marriage that will dissolve due to carelessness. You can defy fate, and keep the ring too, as long as you don’t use soap, or shake hands with a thief. If it’s not possible for the groom to see you in person before the wedding, email him a selfie. Keep your eyes closed all the way to the ceremony so you don’t see a rainbow. Marry a man who’s surname begins with the same letter as yours. “To change the name and not the letter is to change for the worse and not the better.”
Jennifer & Andrew ~September 27, 2014 www.bluerosedesigns.ca 134 restaurants
Even if you have to kneecap them off the pillow, make sure the rings hit the floor before the ceremony begins. Guests eating the cake brings the newlyweds good luck, don’t give them any.
creativity needs time The couple chose their photographer because they liked their avant guard, journalistic style, then presented an endless list of portrait style shots that took up most of the day. Consequently, the photographer had little time to capture touching moments, or record the day as it unfolded, and the couple was disappointed with the seemingly regimented results. If journalistic is your preference, give your professional the time and freedom to work their creative magic, and don’t overload them with “One with Aunt Sally” demands. If you really want to make your photographer’s work load especially difficult, stop, pose and smile every time you see the camera. Journalistic tells a story ‘as it happened’ not ‘as it was posed’. Try to forget the camera is there and don’t worry about unflattering shots. If there are some you don’t care for you and your photographer can eliminate them before anyone else sees them.
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carpe diem The couple rented a photo booth so guests could have personal mementos of the day, but in all the excitement forgot to get some of themselves. Don’t let the day go by without taking time to savour the moments. It will be such a whirlwind that it will be easy to miss out on some of the fun. If you have a cupcake tray, have a cupcake. If you have personalized wine, drink some. Newlyweds in a photo booth is an opportunity that should never be missed.
buenos dias Honeymooning in a far away place can be twice as delightful if you can speak a few words of the local language. You don’t have to become fluent, just enough to be polite, ask for directions, and understand the price of what you are trying to buy. You and your fiancé can enjoy some quality time going over useful phrases. If scuba diving will be central to the trip, put emphasis on learning words that will apply. Wet suit, regulator, and oxygen (especially oxygen) would be good words to know. If you plan to party from the moment your plane touches down, knowing how to say “I want to call the Canadian Embassy” may be useful.
My love for you is a journey; Starting at forever, And ending at never. Anonymous
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Bridal Showers ~ Rehearsal Dinners Intimate Wedding Receptions for up to 100 Guests 1591 London Rd., Sarnia . 519-541-1333 . www.olivescuisine.ca restaurants 135
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final search This is one time in life that you are not expected to collect, and be responsible for your belongings before leaving. The safe retrieval of your cherished cake knife, toasting glasses, gifts etc. has to be left in someone else’s charge and “Make sure nothing is left behind� is not sufficient. Be specific about what needs to be retrieved. Better still, make a list. In addition to your official retrieval person, give the list to your venue coordinator. Often these items are not missed until the couple returns from their honeymoon, and by then it could be too late. Wedding related treasures are not the only things left behind
hair
when the celebrations are over. Guests are at risk of losing belongings too. Assign someone the task of walking around the room at the last possible moment, making sure that nothing has been forgotten on a chair, or concealed under a table. The designated searcher should also check with the venue the next day to inquire about any stray items found by the cleaning staff. When an item has been left behind, and you have no idea who it belongs to, email everyone on your guest list to get the news out that someone has left something behind. They lost it, and you retrieved it. What a perfect bride you are!
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the little ones When the flower girl and ring bearer walk down the aisle, they capture everyone’s attention, and give them an ‘oh how cute’ sensation. They are a heart warming prelude to the processional. Very young children are the most delightful of all, and also the most challenging. It can be difficult to get a child to do exactly as they are told, so they need lots of pre-wedding prep. Adults know exactly what to do, won’t forget how to do it, and still they need practice. Children can quickly lose track of what and how, but repetition works miracles. Tell them once, and it will fly out of their minds. Let them practice, and they will remember it when they reach retirement. In the days leading up to the wedding, talk to them about how wonderful it is to be in a wedding. Add to their interest by getting them little T-shirts that announce their special place. Children can suffer stage fright on a level we can’t comprehend. The doors open and there are all these strangers - staring at them. Most grown-ups would get a little nervous, but for a child, it’s overwhelming, and unless they see someone familiar within the next few seconds... Seat the parents at the front on the aisle. When the child can see mommy or daddy they will feel more secure and toddle off toward them, which is exactly where you want them to go. Another tendency of the preschool set is distraction. Half way down the aisle they forget where they should be going, and stop 138 spas/makeup
My mother Chantelle was a Bridal Confidential Bride of the Month contestant. She didn’t win, but she’s a winner with me! Oh! By the way. My name is Brooklyn. to gather the flowers that are adorning the seats. Cute, but not what you want them to do right now. Taking the hand of a bridesmaid will assure they make if from entrance to alter without stopping for a nap. Don’t expect them to stand still throughout the ceremony. Their desire to do it right will be rapidly overcome by the short attention spans, and youthful energy that quickly translate into restless squirming. When the processional has reached it’s destination, let the younger set step aside and sit with their parents. Everyone has a price, and even at their tender age they will be wondering “Where’s the payoff?”. Make it sound like fun, tell them how special they will be, how proud you are of them - then bribe them. The thought of a prize at the end of the day will keep their active little minds on the job. “You can’t make me.” If they don’t want to, they don’t have to. It’s much better to let the child withdraw than to have them walk the aisle, screaming in terror. Don’t expect perfection. They could drop the flowers, stop midway to untie the rings, or break free and run down the aisle to their parents. Moments like this make guests smile, and their little mistakes will be deemed “Precious”. As long as they get where you want them to go, their job, and yours, is done. Bravo!
toast On your wedding day, there will be lots of toasts to the bride and groom. We know it’s a loving gesture, we know it’s meant to bless our future, and we know it’s a long held tradition, but why is it called a toast? There’s no mysterious meaning here, it’s just toast. It is generally attributed to the French custom of putting a piece of stale or toasted bread in a wine goblet. Exactly why they did that is unclear. Some claim that the bread improved the flavour of the wine by soaking up acidity. Others insist it was so that the last person to get the goblet would gain good fortune by eating the bread. NOTE: When the bride and groom are being toasted, the couple should not raise their glasses. If they do, it becomes the same as toasting themselves.
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when the gown is right you will know
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guilty guest Guests will remember a great wedding, newlyweds will remember great guests, and everyone will remember the guilty guest. The guilty guest is the one who crossed the line in some form or another, and there’s one or more at almost every wedding. Sometimes they are remembered for being ridiculous, sometimes for being a pain. There are no hard and fast rules on being a guest, but there are a few guidelines to being completely innocent of any crime when the day is being judged, and the sentences handed out. Invasion of Privacy The bride’s dressing room is off limits. It isn’t posted in the hall, or marked on the door, but if you want the bride to like you tomorrow, give her the space she needs today. Well wishers popping in, and last minute inquiries being made only serve to agitate her. The irony is that the well meaning guest leaves completely innocent of their offence, while the bride is being punished with frustration. Malicious Mischief For some bewildering reason, weddings and pranks go hand in hand. The instigators find it hysterical, but the couple may never speak to them again. On the most important day of their lives, the newlyweds are already on edge, and don’t need a jokester stalking them. Anyone who carries out pranks that disrupt the day, will be sentenced to the permanent loss of friends. Depraved Indifference They would have been there on time if only they had planned ahead. Arriving at the site no less than 15 minutes before the 150
ceremony is scheduled to begin is a guest’s duty. The proceedings have to wait until everyone is seated, and tardy guests can throw off the entire day. If forces of nature intervene, and guests are hopelessly late, they should find an usher, and ask him to seat them at the first possible moment. If no usher is available, there is no alternative but to wait outside. Anyone who interrupts the ceremony will be punished with scathing glances. Corporate Takeover A wedding is never the appropriate place to announce an engagement, promotion or pregnancy. All these things are good news, but choosing someone else’s wedding to broadcast a bulletin will be construed as an attempt to steal the bride’s thunder, and the rewards are short lived. The announcement of a baby on the way will get everyone’s attention for a little while, but all eyes will eventually turn back to the bride, and control of the room will diminish. You just can’t outdo a woman in a wedding gown. Malice Aforethought Wearing white to a wedding is a crime that society has recently reduced to a misdemeanor, but it is still looked on with suspicion and disdain. Most wedding faux pas happen by accident, not design. When a bridesmaid has too much to drink and her speech lasts 20 minutes, she didn’t plan it that way, so she gets a lesser sentence than the gal who shows up dressed to rival the bride. She has had lots of time to design and execute her plan, and everyone knows it. She could be sentenced to 25 to life without ever being invited to another wedding.
Our 2014 sarnia/chatham Cover Bride Winners trip
Our Dream Honeymoon to Punta Cana On December 13th 2015, thanks to Bridal Confidential, we were fortunate enough to take an all inclusive trip for eight days and seven nights to the Barcelo Bavaro Beach in beautiful Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. It was a trip of a lifetime, a chance for the two of us to get away from the daily grind, and enjoy some time relaxing together in a warm tropical climate. We enjoyed the comfortable flight on Air Transat, overlooking the endless white beaches and palm trees as we landed. Upon arrival to the hotel we were greeted with a fruity cocktail for a welcome drink, and soon we were checked into our spacious room which would be our home for the next week. During our stay we enjoyed some peace and quiet as our part of the hotel was adults only. While sitting on the picturesque beach or by one of the many pools, we enjoyed a variety of cold drinks and being served by the friendly staff. The hotel offered a wide variety of food at its buffets, and over several nights, we indulged at the hotels different a la carte restaurants including Mexican, a steak house, Mediterranean, French, Italian, and a sports bar. The hotel offered a variety of entertainment at night including a circus and a magic show.
We spent a couple different afternoons exploring Punta Cana and learning about it’s people and culture by taking in some of the great excursions the area had to offer. We enjoyed zip lining, an ocean adventure with snorkeling and scuba diving, and a mud filled dune buggy ride. It was a week of making memories, relaxing, and it was the trip of lifetime that will not be forgotten. Thanks to Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia for sponsoring this amazing trip. Risa Andersen
www.transatholidays.com
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stage direction
www.lcpcanada.com
In the theater, making small movements while on stage is a well known way of drawing the audience’s attention, and upstaging the leading players. It could get you fired, but it works every time. Your attendants wouldn’t purposely attempt to steal your show, however, nervous habits have the same result. When one of your cast is chewing gum, your guests attention will be so misdirected they may not notice what you’re wearing. At the rehearsal, when everyone is being instructed on where to stand, go over how to stand as well. Quiet, still and respectful are the order of the day. This will be your shining moment, and all the extras on your stage have to play their part exactly as directed. Keeping the whisperers and gigglers in line is the job of the maid-of-honour, but she has to keep her stage direction to a bare minimum so no one in the audience will notice. If a bridesmaid is playing he loves me, he loves me not with her flowers, a glance in her direction or a gentle nudge will bring her habits to a halt. Groomsmen need the same directions, with one addition. No hands in pockets! Tough one. There’s something about a pocket that beckons the wearer, and as soon as the mind is diverted the hand will seize the moment, and go straight for it. It isn’t really distracting, but it’s too casual and lacks the reverence the moment calls for.
Viva Las Vegas!
I’ve always wanted to get married in fabulous Las Vegas, so when Chris popped the question, we agreed Vegas was the place for us! We found Body English nightclub at the Hard Rock Hotel. Of course no Vegas wedding would be complete without an Elvis officiant!
Our Elvis certainly had the ladies in the room swooning. We were lucky enough to have a large group of our closest family and friends make the trip to Las Vegas to be a part of our wedding. It was the most fantastic day of my life and I would gladly re-live it any time! Tara & Chris Meharg ~ April 11, 2015
www.orangesodaphoto.com
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rock or rule Being a bridesmaid costs money, takes time, tries patience and is one of the biggest favours anyone will ever do for you. So why do they do it? Because your happiness is important, and they know their help is crucial to making your wedding perfect. From licking envelopes to standing beside you as you say your vows, bridesmaids are central to every aspect of your wedding. You were friends when you said “I’m engaged” but will you still be friends by the time you say “I do”. What will they say about being your bridesmaid? Will they say it was a wonderful experience, or will they advise others to become a bridesmaid at their own peril? Will they say “She really rocks” or “She thought she ruled”?
Do’s and don’t for the bride who rocks. Don’t surprise them with additional expenses. No bridesmaid wants to hear “Oh, by the way, you have to buy shoes, jewellery and head wear”, when they thought they would only have to buy a dress. You may be in a wedding induced spending frenzy, but they’re not, and can’t be expected to keep up with you. Do be considerate of your attendants personal lives. They probably have full time jobs, and some may have children. Try to work around their schedules rather than have them work around yours. When your mind is consumed with the all important, upcoming day, it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that your wedding is not everyone’s top priority. Don’t expect them to attend every wedding related function, especially if it’s out of town. Do think of them as friends who are dedicating time and money to assure your happiness. You are in charge, and you have to instruct them on what you want done, but always keep in mind that they are volunteers and your happiness is their only reward. Don’t ask them to lose weight, dye their hair, pierce their ears or get tattoos. You chose them just the way they are, and other than a new outfit, that’s the way they should remain. Do accept “No” for an answer. There are only two reasons a bridesmaid will refuse a favour. She simple can’t, or you have already exceeded your quota by asking too much and too often. Pleading, whining or crying will probably get her to agree, but the seeds of resentment will been sewn. Don’t expect them to buy an expensive wedding present. Let’s add it up. A new dress, shoes, jewellery, lunch meetings, showers, girls’ nights out, hairdos, manicures... Most weddings are one to two years in planning and a lot of cash can trickle out in that time. The average cost of being a bridesmaid is around $1,000. That’s about all you can reasonably expect. It’s up to you to let them know their support is the only gift you will accept.
Jayme Morrison Photogarphy
Making your expectations clear in the beginning assures no misunderstandings later on. Once someone has agreed to be a bridesmaid it’s almost impossible to withdraw from the position. The commitment is made, and there’s no graceful way to retreat. With a friendship, and the success of the wedding on the line, most disgruntled bridesmaids endure, and complain later.
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My photo shoot day
by Jillianne McGonigal
They say that every story has a happy ending; yet mine has become a dream come true. After being diagnosed with an aggressive form of Breast Cancer back in 2010, and battling it for almost 4 years, I never imagined that I would live to see our wedding day. I also never imagined that I would become Bridal Confidential’s 2015 Cover Bride Winner. I feel completely humbled and grateful for not only gaining a second chance at life, but for all of the generosity from Bridal Confidential and its participating sponsors. When I attended the Fall Wedding Event at the Caboto Club in Windsor, I was completely overwhelmed by the various vendors and was excited to enter Bridal Confidential’s Cover Bride Contest not thinking I would ever win, I registered my name and submitted my picture later that evening. Suddenly, my picture popped up on Facebook and my ‘likes’ jumped. I realized I had a chance to win and I became determined. The contest became very close, and with the help of the magazine, I was able to book the majority of our wedding through their sponsors to earn those extra bonus points. I am extremely thankful for our friends and family (especially Shelley and Pam) for all of their hard work and support with helping make this dream a reality. On our photo shoot day, Jacques and I experienced a fun-filled day of pampering. As our day began, we were greeted by Pat from Live-Tech Photography and Video. Pat made us feel like the camera was nonexistent and his amazing sense of humour helped ease our nerves. By the end of the day, Jacques and Pat were like old buddies, firing jokes back and forth. A beautiful limo from Limo’s by Mister J’s arrived, and the most dapper man named Bob lead us on our journey. We felt like celebrities travelling all over Windsor! Bob was very helpful with getting in and out of the limo, and he also gave Jacques some great advice with helping me on our wedding day. Our first stop was at Salon Attitude to meet stylists, Marylou and Naci. Naci put my hair into a beautiful updo with some gorgeous rhinestone pins. The lovely ladies gave Jacques and I a gift bag filled with travel size hair products and lotions to take with us on our honeymoon. Next, we headed to Vanessa’s Bakery and Deli where we received a large lunch basket filled with juices, fresh Italian sandwiches, fruit, and desserts. We were sure to
share some with Pat and Bob too. We headed to Beautiful Images to get my makeup done by Anna. Everyone in the salon made us feel very welcome and I felt very relaxed. Anna gave me a gorgeous soft look that matched perfectly with my dress. As we were leaving, the ladies gave us a huge gift bag filled with shampoos, lotions, jewelry, head bands, cuff links, and gift certificates for manicures at their salon. We both felt completely spoiled! Down the road we went to Mezzo Ristorante (one of our favourite restaurants) where we picked up a gift certificate for a four course meal tasting. We can’t wait to dine in and celebrate our anniversary with them. Our next stop was at Collin’s Formal Wear to get Jacques dressed in his suit. To my surprise, they put him in the exact same suit he will be wearing on our wedding day. I was speechless and began crying when he came out of the dressing room. This was the moment when I realized all of my dreams were coming true. From there, we travelled to the Hampton Inn on Huron Church Road where we received a gift certificate for a one night stay in one of their deluxe suites. They even took us for a tour of the room! Off we went to one of my favourite places, It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique. We were greeted by Sarah and she dressed me in a beautiful lace bridal gown and accessorized me in some fancy jewels. I always feel like a princess when I’m at her boutique. Our last stop was at Chalet Studio to meet Janet and Alan for our photo shoot. As we arrived, they brought out refreshments and snacks and we got to know one another. We were both really nervous to be in front of the camera, but Janet and Alan’s passion and energetic personalities made us feel like we were part of their family. Even their little dog, Macy, welcomed us into their home. Time flies when you are having fun and that is exactly how our evening panned out. Jacques and I feel truly blessed and honoured to have been given this opportunity. We would like to thank all of the sponsors who helped make this day incredibly special, along with Transat Holidays, Marlin Travel for the very generous honeymoon trip to Melia Peninsula Varadero Elegance Club, Varadero. We also want to extend our sincere gratitude to Bridal Confidential for making our dream a reality. Jacques and I are proud to be a part of the magazine and forever humbled by this experience.
photo shoot sponsors All Inclusive Trip for Two: Transat Holidays, Marlin Travel Sarnia, El dorado royale Photographer: Chalet Studio Videography: Livetech photo-video Gown: it’s your day Bridal Boutique Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hair: salon attitude 156
Makeup: beautiful images Limo: Limos by Mr. J’s Dinner for Two: mezzo ristorante Overnight Stay for Two: hampton inn by hilton Gift Basket: Vanessa’s Bakery & Deli
Thank you to all our generous sponsors! See more photos and video at bridalconfidential.com
www.transatholidays.com
11
st st place place winner winner
Jillianne McGonigal
Jillianne won an all-inclusive Trip for Two. Sponsored by Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia. Jillianne also appears on our cover and enjoyed two full days of pampering - story on page 156.
2nd
Alyssa Elliott
$250 Gift Certificate from Ambassador Golf Club
5th
Michelle Marcus (Regier)
Ann Freeman
Tiffany LaRocque An Overnight Stay for Two
$800 Watch from G & G Jewellery & Coins
6th
$100 Dining Gift Certificate from Riverside Sportsmen Club 158
4th
3rd
from Waterfront Hotel
7th
Ashley Keffer
Two Personalized Hangers, one for the Bride & one for the Groom from Touch of Heart
Jennifer Stockwell $200 Gift Certificate from Here Comes the Bride
9th
8th
10th
Sheree Sherman
Rachel Cervi
A $50 Gift Certificate from Gail’s Flowers & Event Decor
11th
A $100 Gift Certificate from Bridal Gallery
12th
Theresa Geauvreau
Appetizers for an Event or Catering from Mezzo Ristorante
14th
Amanda Cacilhas
$150 Gift Certificate from Mastronardi Estate Winery
13th
Monica Weinz
Champagne Gift Package from Designs by Diane
Colleen Raczycki $100 Gift Certificate from Gold Star Jewelers
15th
Allyse Merton
$50 Gift Certificate from New Designs Flowers & Gifts
Stephanie Symons $200 Gift Certificate from Ambassador Golf
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January
Melissa Hladyniuk ~ London One 12 Photography
april
160
Natasha Tilson ~ London Mai Memories Photography
february
Chantelle Ducharme ~ Windsor Real Images Photography
may
Kelly Mady ~ Windsor Sooter’s Photography
march
Sonia Simmoni-Fortuna ~ Kingsville Jaques Scheepers Photography
June
Lauren Salfi ~ Windsor Signature Design & Photography
july
Evy Kyriacou ~ Windsor Jaques Scheepers Photography
october
Yvette Botsford ~ Tecumseh Frank Michael Photography
august
Pam Zeehuisen ~ Seaforth Karen Eveland Photography
november
Landah Hoag ~ Windsor Wet Fresco Photography
september
Lindsey Johnson ~ Windsor Chalet Studio
december
Eden Andary ~ Windsor F8 Photography
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www.caesarswindsor.com
Brittany: Side Street Salon, London
Gillian: The Rooted Bohemian, Petrolia
Jillianne: Salon Attitude, Windsor
Beautiful Images from Windsor provided the location and applied the makeup for all three of our cover winners.
Escorted by Limos by Mister J’s
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Lunch at The Ambassador Golf Club
Fun at It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique
Thank You! To all our wonderful sponsors.
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www.weddingshows.com
I was supposed to take that? Banquet tables include dinnerware, silverware, glasses, candles, napkins, centerpieces, and place settings. Somewhere in that maze is a wedding favour. Guests aren’t going to seek out favours, or scour the table for their presence. They assume it will be front and centre, and clear on its purpose for being there. Is that lovely little candle holder at each place setting a favour, or part of the decor? No guest wants to take the chance that they are liberating something they’re not supposed to. When in doubt, they leave it behind.
Share the excitement of your wedding without any of the worry. Your guests will love our exceptional value. And with our free, hot breakfast and our clean and fresh Hampton bed, the wedding party and your family will be relaxed, refreshed and ready to celebrate. 1840 Huron Church Road Windsor 519-972-0770 windsorsuites.hamptoninn.com 1 800 hampton
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CLEAN AND 100% HAMPTON FRIENDLY FRESH BED GUARANTEE SERVICE
What a disappointment for the bride who agonized over what to give her guests, only to find that over half of them have been collected by cleaning staff, and to make matters worse, the favour-less guests will assume the couple didn’t give one. You can avoid the ‘what’s this supposed to be’ dilemma by personalizing favours with guests names, or giving something obvious. The traditional six candy covered almonds in decorative wrapping will never be mistaken as a decoration.
Tricks & Tips ~ Booking your Hotel by: Wedding Group Specialists for Sunray Group of Hotels Do you have out of town guests coming to your wedding? Here are some helpful hints to guide you when shopping for hotels for your friends and family. Choosing a Hotel/location
Kelly & Mark ~ August 2, 2014 Ted Kloske Photography & Danielle Schenk Photography
Most people usually prefer to stay somewhere close to the venue so that driving is kept to a minimum. With the additional cost of travel to get to an out of town wedding, the cost for accommodations can be a factor as to whether they decide to attend your function or not. Providing them with a reasonably priced, clean location with great customer service will only add to the overall experience of your special day. If they are travelling from afar they may want added amenities such as a pool, fitness centre, fridge and microwave or maybe even a one bedroom suite. It is common for them to stay and experience the city and learn about your home town, therefore, staying downtown by the waterfront and the nightlife might be a better option. Some families include their furry friends in their travels and this can become an additional worry for some however these days most hotels are pet friendly. Shopping for the right hotel
Tera & Ryan ~ October 11, 2014 www.trevorboothphotography.ca 168 accommodations
Once you have narrowed down your options, I recommend visiting each hotel to get a better feel of who you are working with and see what your guests will experience. Some brides prefer all their friends and family to stay at one hotel and others will offer a choice for their guests. This is ok however, you may have to be careful if there is a room attrition. Also, you may want to find out if the hotel provides inserts for your invitations with the hotel prices and information included in your package. cont’d...
• Newly renovated • Free full breakfast & parking • Indoor pool & whirlpool
• Free full breakfast • Free parking • All junior suites
www.choicehotels.ca/cn901
www.choicehotels.ca/cn365
• All suites hotel • 2 restaurants & lounge • Great downtown location • Newly renovated rooms coming soon
www.choicehotels.ca/cn317
• Free full breakfast • Free parking • Newly renovated
www.choicehotels.ca/cn318
Pricing I always recommend doing a little homework in order to find the right fit for your guests. Sometimes the lowest price is not always the best choice and for a few dollars more your guests may be much happier. Usually, the earlier you book the better. If the hotel’s occupancy starts to rise around the time of your wedding, you may notice the price increase. Rates are always based on demand, similar to booking airline flights. In saying that I recommend booking 6-8 months in advance in order to lock in the best rates for your guests. Inclusions like breakfast are always a bonus when anyone is traveling so keep that in mind too.
offer Jacuzzi Suites but the Comfort Inn & Suites is one you should definitely keep in mind.
Number of rooms
Most hotels in the Windsor area do not offer shuttle services. This is something you may have to look into on your own or ask your Sales Manager for recommendations.
Some hotels will offer a discount based on the number of rooms you promise them. This can get complicated and is very hard for you to control. With the Sunray Group of Hotels listed above, we offer a set number of rooms from 10-15 with a variety of room types and we will add and make changes as needed based on availability. All reservations must be made one month prior to your wedding date and whatever rooms are not reserved will be released for regular sale at that point. This may vary with each hotel’s policy and procedures however with us there is no obligation to you. Now don’t forget about your “Honeymoon Suite”! Sometimes, depending on how many room nights you bring the hotel you can get an even better discount or maybe even a free room for your special night. There are limited hotels in the city of Windsor that
Things you should know Depending on the time of your wedding some of your guest that are travelling the day of may request an early check-in. Most hotels are happy to welcome early arrivals providing the rooms are available and ready. Please keep in mind however that it is usually very difficult for a hotel to promise this in advance. Transportation
Gift bags Some wedding parties want to leave a welcome bag with maps and goodies for their guests. Some hotels will charge for this as an added service but we don’t! Other reasons to book hotels Wedding Showers, Stag and Does, Bachelor or Bachelorette Parties and Rehearsal Dinners. If you have any questions feel free to contact Sunray Group of Hotels - your Wedding Group specialists at 519-564-9833. accommodations 169
www.daysinnleamington.com
170 accommodations
www.windsor-hotel.ca
dessert table or whether your budget allows for a pastry table or if you will choose ice cream with the meal. Or maybe a platter of pastry on each table rather than the extravagant dessert buffet that definitely adds to the WOW-factor but so much leftover pastry can be un-necessary. What do you want? What do you need? What can you afford? Contact local bakeries and get an idea of the cost of what you are asking for. A cake in Toronto and California can be $3000 but in Essex County may be $500
2055 Sandwich West Pkwy., Windsor . 519-250-5557 . vanessasbakeryanddeli@gmail.com
Ordering your wedding cake
by Renée of Renée’s Fine Cakes
What do you want for your wedding cake? What do you need? When do you order it? Think of the cake like any other detail of your wedding… the more organized you are, the more you can enjoy your wedding day and trust all the professionals you have hired to take care of all aspects of your wedding. When you are organized and order early then we can be more organized too! When you get engaged you find the church and hall first, and maybe start looking for the dress and the florist… your baker/pastry chef should be right up there in your list of priorities. Wedding season is primarily from May 1st to October 31st. We have limits the same as any other wedding business, we know our limitations and the number of cakes we can do comfortably on each weekend. Even if you just call us to make an appointment and come in and get estimates/prices/ideas and look at our amazing collection of pictures of all our work, a small deposit can hold the date and save you a place in our schedule. Then you may take your time looking at magazines or Google cake pictures on the internet for ideas. Personally I focus on one week at a time during wedding season. I don’t need all the details until closer to your wedding. But for your peace of mind please come in as soon as possible, even if it is 6 months or a year prior to your date. We can finalize cake choices or colours closer to the wedding. Needs One of the first questions I always ask is “what is the job of your wedding cake?”. Do you want/need to feed ALL of your guests with the cake? Is there a dessert with the menu? Do you have a dessert table? Most brides just need a cake for pictures and to feed some people but not all. Please, think of any wedding you have ever been to and how many times have you ever eaten the cake? Or even seen the cake? You generally never need cake for everyone at your reception. Unless you absolutely know that you want it served as the actual plated dessert and to be cut and served to all guests. Be sure to ask your reception hall organizer if they have a cakecutting fee. This may be so high that you might want to go with cupcakes (self-serve) instead. You have many options and choices for dessert for your guests and you may not know the answer until much closer to the wedding date when your family decides if they are baking for your 172 bakeries
Once you choose the outside detail you still have more decisions! The inside cake choices and filling choices. Vanilla, chocolate, carrot cake, red velvet cake? Chocolate mousse or raspberry filling? The outside icing choice is usually fondant nowadays. It is much more stable and safe in the heat of the summer months, also you can be much more creative with the detail. There is always buttercream under the fondant to join it to the cake. Buttercream tastes better for sure, but the style and detail is not as perfect as fondant cakes. A good pastry chef should be rolling it thin so the guests enjoy the cake not just a mouthful. Also important: please trust a real baker or professional pastry chef. There are so many new decorators doing this from home, not in an approved kitchen by the Board of Health and without the many years experience or back-up staff to promise you safe delivery of your wedding cake. Thank you ~ Renee Pratt
Sarah & Sal August 2, 2014 www.trevorboothphotography.ca
FINE CAKES & PASTRY SHOP 28 years experience
amazing assortment of freshly-made pastries, cakes, cookies and more!
119 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh . 519-478-1819 . www.reneesfinecakes.com
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modern families Cousin Harry used to be married to one of the bridesmaids, who is now married to your sister’s brother-in-law, who used to date Harry’s current wife. Welcome to the modern family. It’s time to hone up your consideration and flexibility skills. The ultimate goal of a wedding (besides getting married of course) is for the guests to have a wonderful time, and that’s not going to happen if they are dealing with uncomfortable or even acrimonious situations. The best time to put out a fire is before it starts. You can’t actually see the flames, but undoubtably you know where the faulty wires are, and this gives you the opportunity to take some basic precautions.
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To avoid jealousy, family members who are estranged should be treated equally, when you seek advice from one, seek it from the other. People who feel invested in the plans are less likely to create disruptions at the event. Keeping everyone on the same page means no one will feel left out, and there will be less chance of resentment. If walking the aisle will cause envy between parents, walk with both, choose a close friend to accompany you, or take the spotlight on your own. If the aforementioned cousin Harry’s first wife is now single, don’t ask her to attend alone. Any uncomfortable single situation can be solved with a ‘plus one’ invitation and thoughtful seating arrangements. Keep the focus where it belongs - on you. By letting everyone know how much this day means to you, and how much you need them to pull together as a team, their attention will be centered on getting you to the alter instead of exacting revenge on their ex.
178 banquet halls
10835 Riverside Dr., E. Windsor 519-735-3031 Ext: 13 riversidesportsmenclub@cogeco.net www.rscwindsor.com
Nubbia & Matt ~ May 17, 2014 www.johnlyonsweddings.com
www.weddings.mastronardiwines.com
Creating your vision... within your budget.
180 banquet halls
Natacia & Filipe ~ October 4, 2014 www.livetechphotovideo.com
The Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village offers a one of a kind venue for your next event. Our facilities include a turn of the century church, picturesque grounds, an outdoor pavilion, courtyard, a 50’s diner and a spacious hall for larger functions. The possibilities are endless. Our helpful and courteous staff will assist you in planning your upcoming event.
Be sure to inquire about additional services and amenities offered such as decorations, antique and vintage vehicles for pictures, tours, etc. We encourage you to come out and visit us and see first-hand all that we have to offer.
For more information please give us a call at 519-776-6909 or visit our website at www.ctmhv.com 6155 Arner Townline, Kingsville . media@ctmhv.com
steve pomerleau photography steve pomerleau photography steve pomerleau photography
the ultimate wedding facility to host your ceremony, cocktails, reception, and photographs all in one place, surrounded by the natural beauty of the vines and beachfront
Heather & Ryan ~ August 23, 2014 www.johnlyonsweddings.com
www.serbiancentre.com
Brinley & Dave ~ October 4, 2014 www.chaletstudio.ca
superstition loophole
Ideal Location for Your Wedding or Bridal Shower ~ Up to 300 Guests
The Rhine Danube Club 130 Erie St. N., Leamington | 519-326-3740 info@rhinedanubeclub.com | www.rhinedanubeclub.com 184 banquet halls
In the world of omens and fate, almost everything has a meaning and knives are no exception. They are the symbol of a broken relationship, and it’s bad karma for newlyweds to receive them as a gift. Before you run out and delete that gorgeous set of cutlery from your registry, there’s a way around this sharp edged curse. Folklore tells us that if you pay the giver a penny, it becomes a purchase, not a gift. Folklore couldn’t foresee that one day a penny would be out of circulation, so you better bump that up to a nickel.
www.bridalcouture.ca
www.itsyourday.ca www.itsyourday.ca
to post or not to post, that is the question In the excitement of the engagement, it’s fun to ask for advice and opinions, but given the number of people you can communicate with all at once, stop to consider whether or not you really want that much feedback. You could be facing a serious case of information overload. Once you open yourself up to input, it’s probably not going to stop, and responding to communication can turn into a part-time job. In addition to being bombarded with opinions, not all of them are going to be positive. You announce that you just found your gown at a certain bridal shop, and the next thing you know someone is telling you horror tales of dealing with that business. Do you really want to know
Here Comes the Bride bridal boutique
this? Is it even true? Newlyweds love relating exaggerated tales of the adversity they faced on their journey to the alter. Post-wedding, it makes a funny story, but pre-wedding you don’t need to hear it. By opening yourself up to advice, you could get a lot more than you bargained for. How much do you really want to share? Do you want someone to copy your fabulously unique favours, or duplicate your adorable seating cards? When you pin it, or post it that’s what’s going to happen. Social media is about sharing and once it’s out there, it’s up for grabs. If you believe ‘imitation is the sincerest form of flattery’ then post away, but remember you are going to lose some of the mystery and impact of your wedding. As guests enter, your beautiful wishing tree ought to be a surprise, as you walk down the aisle your stunning head piece should dazzle admirers. This won’t happen if they’ve already seen them. Before you hit the web, think about just how much you want to reveal, and how much advice you really need.
news gets around
Purchase with us and no Alteration Charge Gown Preservation next door at Kennedy's Cleaners
33 Talbot Street., E, Leamington . 519.326.4121 . www.herecomesthebride.ca 186 bridal shops
Mail all of your invitations together so that everyone receives them at the same time. News of having received one won’t sit well with the friend who has not. A few days apart isn’t noticed, but weeks apart implies lesser importance.
Est. 1948
Stephanie & Alex May 31, 2014 www.chaletstudio.ca
Anita & Mike November 1, 2014 www.livetechphotovideo.com
Known for our HUGE selection Windsor 519-974-3681 5970 Tecumseh Rd., East Mon. Tues. Fri. 10 - 6 Wed. Thurs. 10 - 9 Sat. 9 - 5 Sun. 12 - 4 (Jan. - Mar.)
Mississauga
Kristi & Chris March 7, 2014 www.blushphotos.ca
905-270-6200 2200 Dundas Street East
London
Kitchener
519-433-2865 519-745-8545 517 York Street, London 1780 King Street East
www.sophiesgownshoppe.com bridal shops 187
snacks to the rescue Brides and grooms aren’t the only ones who are too excited to eat breakfast on the wedding day, attendants are guilty too. Around midday the effects are going to begin to show with rumbling tummies and feelings of faintness. A little something to ‘tide you over’ is all that is needed. You all have a long day ahead of you before the wedding banquet begins, so bring along something for everyone to nibble on. Don’t worry about your snack-pack menu, it isn’t ceremonial food it’s emergency food.
bridal designs NBD
nadia’s
celebrating 30 years
1531 & 1533 Ouellette Ave. Windsor 519-258-6252
nadiasbridal@bellnet.ca
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Energy bars or prepackaged cheese and crackers, and some bottled water, will be more than ample. In the limousine, before the ceremony, or at the photo session, someone is going to be feeling the effects of skipping breakfast. Bring only food and drinks that won’t mark clothing and don’t forget the napkins.
John Lyons Weddings
strings... your mother has offered to pay for your wedding gown, wonderful, but before accepting her offer find out whether or not there are stings attached. If you want a revealing, slinky gown, but she is determined you should wear something more demure, it’s best
188 bridal shops
to come to an agreement before accepting the offer. From flowers to venue, anyone who is covering the bill will probably feel they are entitled to an opinion, and rightfully so. Do your best to establish an understanding before hitting the shops.
www.bridalgallery.ca
www.designsbydiane.org www.designsbydiane.org
in windsor essex by Nancy Campana. Owner of Nouveau Event Planning/Wedding Shows Windsor
“An upscale wedding in the Windsor-Essex region is typically 30% to 50% less expensive to entertain than hosting your wedding in the Greater Toronto Area or other larger cities in Canada” states Nancy Campana, owner of Nouveau Event Planning and producer of the area’s largest wedding shows. “This saving alone is a huge reason to consider the Windsor Essex Region for your wedding day. Add to that the elements of fresh locally grown food and wine, numerous waterfront event property locations along the 100 mile peninsula, and a very long and sunny spring to fall wedding season makes WindsorEssex a picture perfect wedding location choice!” As the wine region continues to grow and thrive, many wineries are taking hosting weddings to the next level by adding, expanding and building permanent event structures to their grounds. Mastronardi Estate Winery, nestled in the heart of Essex County, leads the way with their all-inclusive weddings in
Trevor Booth Photography
The Windsor Essex Region is an awe-inspiring destination for couples considering a unique wedding location. The www. getmarriedinwindsoressex.com website promotes the beauty and diversity of the Windsor-Essex Region and the affordability of hosting a wedding in this area.
the aptly named “Vino Vista”, a unique and stylish indoor-outdoor banquet facility. This location evokes a sense of old world charm, and is surrounded by a panorama of breathtaking vineyard views. Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards is spending $1.5 million to add a kitchen, a hall, and a restaurant, while Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery has invested into building a screened-in permanent event structure on their property located along the shores of Lake Erie. And these local wineries are also producing award winning wines that savour the Essex County taste cultivated by the region’s long, sunny growing seasons. Windsor Essex has long been known as a welcoming locale for same sex couples coming to the region to wed from Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. The Windsor Pride Community, Education and Resource Centre lends its guidance and cordiality regularly to couples visiting this region to marry. The Get Married in Windsor Essex campaign seeks to welcome not only GTA same sex couples, but will expand into the Michigan, Ohio and Indiana region moving forward, inviting same sex couples to explore the benefits of marrying in Windsor-Essex.
Neil Elias Photography
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Dave Owens Photography
Frank Michael Photography
Steve Pomerleau Photography
In addition to Windsor’s 2015 Fall Wedding Event & Wedding Extravaganza ’16 Shows we look forward to meeting Toronto couples at the Canada’s Bridal Show at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Friday January 8th through Sunday January 10th 2016. Visit our booth and explore what the WindsorEssex Region can offer you for your very special day!
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doing it right Regardless of how off-the-wall your wedding is going to be, common courtesy still has to prevail. Friends and guests will go along with almost anything you can dream up as long as you do it with some regard to their lifestyles, feelings and wallets. Unless they are family, or members of the wedding party, don’t invite the same person to more than one shower. One wedding gift and one shower gift is all anyone should be expected to give. Anyone attending more than one shower is not expected to bring another gift.
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Paying for the bridesmaid’s wedding day jewellery is a nice gesture, but it’s not gift giving, it’s accessorizing. A gift is your way of thanking them for all they have done, and should be something straight from your heart, not something for the wedding.
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wedding is ample time unless you are planning a destination wedding. When travel is involved, three months notice would be better. Don’t invite people you know can’t come. For anyone who can’t attend, giving a gift is optional, but once an invitation is received, sending a gift becomes the only polite thing to do. Have a deadline for your RSVP’s. With a seating chart to finalize, and a caterer who needs a head count, all RSVP’s should be in at least two to three weeks before the day. Wedding websites should not be printed on the invitation, but you can include a card with your online information, or put it on your save-the-date cards. Don’t send registry information with the invitations. Family, attendants, and a wedding website can spread the word. Everyone wants to be dressed correctly, so if you have a dress code, mention it in the invitations by adding ‘formal wedding’ or ‘black tie’. If it’s a casual affair they will want to know that too.
Even if they are to the same person, bridal shower and wedding gift thank you notes should be sent separately. Your vendors deserve one too.
Not every unmarried guest has to get a ‘plus one’ invitation. It varies with the situation. A plus one is required if the guest is involved in a serious relationship, or if you know that almost everyone will be attending in couples, inviting your single friends to bring a guest will make them feel more comfortable and less conspicuous.
Sending out invitations six to eight weeks before the
Anyone who is invited to the ceremony should be invited to the reception.
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At the wedding, one of the first things guests will say is “Let me see your rings”. As you present them for the viewing, they are being displayed on the relatively small canvas of your hand, accented with a manicure. The question is, which do you want them to see first? The ring or your fingernails? Extend a hand with a truly jazzy manicure, and they may not even notice the diamond. If you want your precious rings to be the centre of attraction, avoid trendy manicures that will distract from their beauty. Diamonds are timeless but manicures change with fashion, and the funkier the manicure the quicker it dates your wedding photos.
out-of-towners perk Guests who live out of town probably don’t have any idea of where hotels are in relation to your wedding, which are secluded, which ones are in the heart of city, and which ones come with a view. Give them a list of choices complete with contact information, pricing, overall amenities and distance from your venue. On their arrival, nothing could be more welcoming to a tired traveller than to walk into a hotel room to find a treat just for them. It doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate, it just has to make them feel special. A basket with some snacks, bottled water and a personal note saying “Glad you got here” is all that is needed. Every wedding is unique, and no doubt you will come up with some of your own special ways to say “It wouldn’t have been the same without you”. 196 spa/makeup
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by Adam Marz (Celebrity lighting designer) “Lighting can make everything - including your wedding flowers, cake, and guests - look better.” - The Knot. There are few things more memorable than your wedding, and it’s for this reason that engaged couples spend so much time and effort in making sure their special day is as perfect as they’d always imagined it. The difficult part in planning is knowing what’s going to give you the biggest bang for your buck, and really make your wedding stand out in the minds and memories of guests. When it comes to truly transforming a space, nothing is as powerful as great lighting design. When setting the tone and creating a beautiful atmosphere, lighting invokes a shared emotional experience for you and your guests. For example, a simple wash of teal lighting, alongside the right shimmering white accents can turn an otherwise bland banquet hall into a surreal winter wonderland. All the while, carefully choreographed intelligent lighting can transport your first dance into the set of Dancing with the Stars. The list of possibilities is endless, and the variety of lighting options at your Lighting Designers’ disposal allows for a total transformation or accentuation of your venue into a space where you’ll build dreams to last a lifetime. Event designers may each have their own style and approach to wedding design, but there’s one thing the pros can all agree on - it’s all about the lighting. [After all, lighting is the only reason we see anything at all in the world. Artful manipulation of light shapes our perceptions and emotions.]
World renowned wedding and event designer to the stars Colin Cowie knows that “the saying is 100% true.” Celebrity event designer Preston Bailey agrees, noting that “lighting creates a mood.” Bloggers at colincowieweddings.com explain that “of all the decor options, lighting design is the ultimate element that will set the tone for your wedding.” It has evolved into more than just a functional light switch to an element that allows you to personalize any space to suit your vision, establishing “your ideal environment, transforming your wedding from ordinary to extraordinary” (colincowieweddings.com). The Knot - an authority on all things weddings - advises brides on their online blog that when done well, “lighting can make everything - including your wedding flowers, cake, and guests - look better.” Modern brides are catching on to the trend, with pages dedicated to lighting included in most wedding planning books and apps, making creative illumination an essential element of the wedding design process. With lighting styles and techniques for every budget and style, it’s a versatile tool that adapts seamlessly with every type of venue, whether its an open air affair, a rustic barn gathering, a glamorous black-tie gathering or an over the top themed party. Designs can be as bold as coloured wall washes with moving fixtures scanning the room with complimentary patterns or they can be subtle and playful with spot lights highlighting key areas, such as the cake and head table, whilst obscuring less attractive features of a room and preserving the overall dim light levels you’d expect of a nighttime gathering. Meeting one on one with your lighting designer allows you to customize the design to suit your vision and/or theme. They can recommend the best options to make your space look and feel exactly how you want it. Let your imagination run wild with ideas - it’s your day, so dream big - we can make those dreams a reality. 199
Kate & Panayese ~ January 18, 2014 www.johnlyonsweddings.com
Angelica & Cody ~ October 4, 2014 www.johnlyonsweddings.com
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Shannon & Kyle ~ June 22, 2014 www.trevorboothphotography.ca
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the toss World famous sharpshooter Annie Oakley could turn her back to a target, hold her rifle over her shoulder, and using a mirror, hit the bulls-eye every time. You are about to do something similar (although considerably less dangerous) but without the mirror.
The dud. Let go a moment too soon and the bouquet will drop at your heels. With an anxious crowd behind you, ready to ride roughshod over anything in their path, the dud can be more dangerous than a bullet.
The bouquet toss is one of the highlights of the wedding, so with your back to the target, and eager ladies awaiting the moment, do what Annie did, and give the audience what they came for - the perfect toss. You have just one chance, and it only lasts for a few seconds, so you have to get it dead on the first time. If you’re not accustomed to throwing things over your head while judging the weight, mass, distance, elevation, and angle of trajectory, a few practice shots wouldn’t hurt. Use a bouquet of artificial flowers if you can get one, or a mid-sized beach ball if you can’t.
The miss. Just before you let the blossoms fly, get a feel for how heavy or light they are, and how far you are standing from the waiting mob. Wedding bouquets aren’t designed to be aerodynamic, and may not travel as far as expected.
The ricochet. A high toss in a room with low ceilings can result in a misdirected, de-constructed bouquet. The ladies who were waiting to grasp it will end up picking up the pieces. They’re not scrambling for the prize, they’re being polite. They can’t just leave it’s shattered body lying there. Check out your venue’s ceiling height, and the position of any chandeliers that could send it off course, or take it prisoner. 202 hair salons/makeup
The incident. Charms, crystals or anything that can scratch or jab has to be removed before the bouquet becomes airborne. Do you suppose Annie’s mother ever said “You’ll shoot your eye out”? Know your audience and anticipate their feelings. Not all single girls want to be centered out, or appear desperate to win the bouquet’s promise of marriage. If this is the vibe you’re getting from your gal pals, pass on having a singles toss. Instead, invite all the ladies, married and unmarried to join in. Give the toss a different meaning by announcing that whoever catches it will be blessed with good luck.
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Frances & Jeffrey November 15, 2014 www.phatboyproductions.ca
Keep an eye
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Purses, wallets, personal possessions. If the dressing room of the venue can’t be locked, secure someone to stand guard. While everyone is paying attention to you someone else may be paying attention to your unattended valuables.
Cinderella revisited or what’s wrong with this picture? “Cinderella gown”. “Cinderella carriage”. “Cinderella ball”. The story that delighted us as children, has become synonymous with weddings. When used to describe the wedding day, it generates a delightful image of a beautiful bride, true love and unending happiness. As a contributor to Bridal Confidential, I have to admit to using the analogy a few times, but I have always felt a little uneasy about it. Like I was trying to sell something I didn’t really believe in. So it’s time to fess up. Since early childhood, I have secretly harboured doubts about Cinderella’s future happiness. Fairy tales are always far-fetched, that’s part of their appeal, but even as children we knew they have to add up at some point. Snow White finding love when the handsome Prince wakes her from an apple-induced coma. Enchanting. What girl wouldn’t wake up if a Prince kissed her? We weren’t told much about Ms. White’s Prince, we were left to assume he was a decent guy and the marriage worked out. However, when it came to the tale of Cinderella, we got to know her Prince a little better, and for me that’s when their fantasy love story started looking a little shaky. Cinderella goes to the ball, the prince falls in love with her, she vanishes into the night, and he has no way of finding her other than through the glass slipper she left behind. Up to this point the story is captivating, and parts about the mice making the gown, and the pumpkin turning into a golden carriage are 204 jewellers
adorable, but what follows has to make you wonder about Prince Charming’s IQ. Without even narrowing it down to blondes, the Prince searches for his lady love by having every eligible female in the kingdom try to stuff their size nines into the tiny shoe. When he finally makes it to Cinderella’s house, he lets her two, seriously unattractive, step sisters try it on before he gets to her. Really? He loves her but he can’t remember what she looks like? Without the makeup and fancy clothes she’s a complete blur? According to the unflattering descriptions of the step sisters, they weren’t remotely similar to Cinderella, but not until the slipper fit did this airhead realize it was her. In spite of his obvious intellectual shortcomings, they marry and live happily ever after. My apologies to author Charles Perrault, film maker Walt Disney, and little girls everywhere, but I could never see it working. Let’s make a sequel to the ending of this tale. Cinderella realizes that this guy shouldn’t be allowed to rule a country. He shouldn’t even be allowed out in public without supervision. She tells him to take his foot fetish elsewhere, moves on, becomes a famous surgeon, marries a handsome commoner, and lives happily ever after. That’s a story I can refer to with a clear conscience. The moral of the revised fable? Just because the shoe fits, it doesn’t mean you have to wear it. Enjoy your “Cinderella day”, and here’s to making a better match than she did.
Sophea & Marco ~ May 18, 2014 www.trevorboothphotography.ca
Lindsey & Bradley ~ September 20, 2014 www.chaletstudio.ca
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sometimes it was about money
Not all of our wedding traditions began with a fear of beings from the dark side, some were more practical. In an era when marriage involved fortunes and empires, the groom stood to the bride’s right so that his sword hand would be free to defend her from enemies who would steal her, and her fortune. Groomsmen were on duty as armed backup. The custom of not seeing the bride before the wedding, and her face being covered by a veil until it was too late, made sure the groom didn’t have a chance to recant, and blow a lucrative merger. The father giving away the bride was a declaration that he was in agreement with whatever financial transaction had taken place.
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Crystal & Ryan ~ November 7, 2014 www.phatboyproductions.ca
mittens and moments
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A winter wedding means, boots, coats, gloves and even scarves when nature is being especially cruel. Because they are all items you plan to discard as soon as you reach central heating, they’re not part of your wedding ensemble, and don’t deserve any special recognition - right? Overlook their importance and you’re missing out on some fun photos. A delicate gown flowing over all-terrain boots, earmuffs accenting a tiara, or warm mittens protecting a bouquet from the cold. All moments that demonstrate your humour and tenderness at the same time. Along with all the photographs of the wedding, include a few of what it took to get you there.
you can’t be serious
3851 Dougall Ave., Windsor 519.250.4182 info@elizabethr.ca . www.elizabethr.ca 206 invitations
In the ‘You can’t be serious’ category, the award for the shortest celebrity marriage on record (56 hours), and the most under dressed bride (jeans and a baseball cap) goes to celebrity Brittany Spears.
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A Whole New World! Let quality inspire your style. Designs by Frank Lyman, Michael Philips and the creators of Cartise International, to name a few, are using European inspired fabrics. Vibrant prints capture the market. Styles are exceptional with embellishments, such as lace, leather and fur, as a whole or an accent, giving a very chic, sophisticated look. Consider the dull days of winter over, with a new rainbow of colour! Starting with pistachio green, royal blue, artic white, fire and burnt orange, even a deep merlot. Soft pink and fall florals create a new trend. It’s a whole new world where past meets present. Evening dresses have a 1920’s flair. Pearls, diamonds and sequins embellish the look. Short or long, elegance and glamour go hand in hand. In short, remember to brighten up your wardrobe, always be exceptional and live life to the fullest, in style, of course! Lori @ Our Place Ladies Fashions
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Weddings have more traditions and superstitions attached than any other life event. Carrying a bouquet began as a way to ward off evil spirits, bridesmaids were there to confuse spirits that were stalking the bride, and flower petals for the bride to walk on assured fertility. There’s no getting around it. If you’re going to get married, luck is going to come into play. When you toss the bouquet, when the guests toast to your happiness, when he carries you over the threshold, it’s all about luck. So even if you scoff at superstition, you may as well hedge your bets with something old, something new...
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what’s luck got to do with it? Not the least bit superstitious? Sorry, there’s no way you’re getting through your wedding without involving some good luck/bad luck customs. Most wedding traditions are a holdover from a time when everyone believed that luck was the only thing standing between a successful marriage and a disaster. The days of taking measures to bring the couple good luck by outwitting demons or appeasing gods have passed, and what used to be done as caution is now done as custom. From the day you become engaged, the word luck will crop up in your daily conversation.
Have you noticed? There aren’t many wedding superstitions that relate to the groom. What’s up with that? It sounds a little sexist to me. Does that mean that if the marriage falls apart it’s the bride’s fault because she didn’t do enough to guarantee good fortune? Why can’t the groom be the one to garner happiness by finding a spider in his cummerbund? Why doesn’t he take responsibility for not seeing a chimney sweep on his way to the church? This double standard could be a call for feminists to unite, but since the bouquet looks awesome, the veil flattering, and the borrowed broach stunning, let’s just let it slide.
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knife for peeling and sectioning, and lastly, a serrated knife for delicate items such as breads and cakes. One last suggestion here would be tools to maintain your quality knives. A good sharpening steel and a quality cutting board will help ensure your blades stay in tip top shape for a long time. Pots and pans – Along with knives these are the other tools you will be using on a daily basis and should last you decades. Think about how you use your pots and pans. If sticking is ever an issue to you look for high quality Teflon-free non-stick pans, such as titanium or ceramic surfaced pans. These allow for searing at higher heat than what Teflon will allow, and with a harder, longer lasting surface.
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a new chapter By Joel Beneteau, Williams Food Equipment Congratulations, you’re getting married! Amongst the planning of the wedding itself it’s also time to plan the next chapter in your lives. There is no one who knows what you need in the next phase of your life together other than yourselves. You know what you’re going to use and how you’re going to use it and this is where a bridal registry comes into play. You’re starting a new chapter in your life and one that you will want to remember for a long time. A wedding registry is an important step in the planning of a wedding. It really helps your guests pick out the perfect gift and helps to prevent the accumulation of three or four toasters. We would like to offer a few suggestions in two main areas that we would suggest spending a little more time considering than others. Knives – There is nothing more frustrating or potentially dangerous than trying to use a dull knife. When looking for a good knife, look for a quality, well forged blade that will keep an edge well and feels good in your hand. There are three main knives that you will need. You will need a good chef’s knife, the main go-to knife for any cutting board work, a good pairing
Julie & Michael ~ September 5, 2014 www.trevorboothphotography.ca 212 limousines
When looking for stainless steel pots and pans, sturdy try-ply pots with a good heavy aluminum layer between layers of stainless steel will help in heat conduction and will help to prevent scorching. Make sure the pans are comfortable to you and your partner. As with the knives you will both be using these items so make sure they suit you both. When shopping for your registry, take advantage of the knowledgeable sales staff. They are there to help you make the best, most informed decision possible. They should be asking you questions and don’t be shy to ask questions yourself. Take some time to think about how you use your tools and what tools you enjoy using the most, what you like about them and accentuate these in your choices for the future. Whether it be knives, bakeware, linens or appliances, look for items that your guests will be proud to present you with, and that will help you remember your special day for decades to come.
Kelly & Marlo ~ November 1, 2014 www.chaletstudio.ca
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Your day and your memories can be all you dreamed… We have put together some suggestions to find the perfect photographer to make it even better. The first step is arranging a time to meet them and discuss your plans. An email conversation will not give you the info you’ll need to make the best decision. Just like your wedding dress, your photographer needs to fit your style and your personality. This choice will be how you will remember your wedding day forever.
The Fun Factor Choose a photographer you love being around. Your comfort level around them will have a huge impact on the images they capture of you. Remember, this is the day you want to love remembering. Photojournalism doesn’t capture it all… Photojournalism is always a part of a Wedding Day but there is so much more. Great photographers give direction for a reason. The right combination of lighting, composition, angles, spontaneity, posed candids and most importantly expression will capture you at your best. Friends & Family Celebrating you Think about it… Everyone you care about is there for you. Its the perfect time to create images with the people you love. Creating these images quickly in a fun way is one of the trickiest parts of a wedding. Be sure to ask your photographer if they will capture family images for you. These images will be priceless to you and your family as time goes by. Keep it Timeless Trends are fun but rarely last. Look for a photographer with a classic shooting style and you’ll always love your images. Fall for something trendy and you might regret it in just a few years time. Your images should be a gorgeous reflection of the wonderful day you had and stand the test of time. Truly great images will look beautiful even without Photoshop effects or digital tricks.
Owning a camera doesn’t make you a Wedding Photographer. When it comes to weddings, experience is priceless! Would you ask a friend to perform the duties of a doctor or dentist? … of course not. Your photographer more than any other person is positioned to help your day be its best or not. A true professional Wedding Photographer knows how to deal with the stress and huge variables of this incredibly fast moving day while capturing beautiful, unique images that will rock your world. Experienced professionals can quickly pose and light a couple to enhance their best features. A pose that may look fantastic on one bride, may not flatter another bride. Remember the camera doesn’t create the image the photographer does. Plan B What if it rains? If there ever was a time to have a Plan B this is it! What weather Mother Nature will send you on your big day is a complete mystery. Assuming you will have perfect weather could leave you feeling very disappointed. Choosing a Photographer who has a studio, and or back-up location will make your day carefree and more fun. Remember Mother Nature doesn’t give rain checks. Backup Gear Invest in a true professional who is prepared for anything. When equipment malfunctions a true pro can calmly grab a replacement and continue on. Your photographer should have 2-3 full frame camera bodies, spare flashes, high quality lenses and extra power supply as a minimum. The last thing you want to hear is excuses. An unprepared amateur could leave you with nothing but regrets. 214
Pricing Invest in an experienced photographer who will deliver your dream with a smile. Remember you get what you pay for. You should expect to invest a minimum of $2000 for your wedding photography. Of all the purchases you’ll make this is the one that gives you memories of it all. How many photographers? After photographing over 1,500 weddings we can say two photographers are better than one. So much happens so quickly during a wedding making it a huge task for one person to capture it all. The second photographer offers another unique point of view throughout the entire day that you would not have had. Timing Be sure to reserve enough hours of coverage. You might think the bridal dance will be finished by 9 pm but there are no guarantees. Many of the greatest fun moments will happen later in the evening at your reception. Don’t rely on your friends and family to be there to capture them for you. These good times deserve to be captured by a professional because they only happen once. Remember you only get one chance to capture it all. Choosing the right photographer will allow you to relax and truly enjoy your day forever.
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before photos There will be endless photographs of you in your gown, your shoes will appear in some, and your bouquet and veil will no doubt be included in many of them. You spent countless hours carefully selecting these items, don’t neglect them at the last minute. Before putting on the gown, before guests arrive at the venue, before the cake is revealed, ask your photographer to get individual shots of everything in its pristine condition. The bouquet resting on a table, your veil draped over a chair, your gown on a beautiful hanger or the reception room ready for guests to enter.
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There’s no aspect of your wedding that you won’t want a record of, but your photographer has no way of knowing what is important to you. Make a list of your ‘must have’ photos, right down to the heirloom broach you are wearing in your hair, or the handkerchief you are tucking into your bouquet.
techies and treckies Even though mass communication has taken over our daily lives, it is still considered poor etiquette to send wedding invitations by email. Having an invitation pop up on a monitor is too impersonal, and an electronic ‘thank you’ card verges on insulting, but given the direction of technology and communication, things will change in time. A dozen years ago we would never have imagined our primary contact with friends would be through texting or social media, and look where we are now. So why is it still not acceptable to send your wedding invitations via the web? To begin with, it’s just too easy. If someone is expected to give up their day, attend a wedding, and bring a gift, they would like to know the couple took the time and trouble to give it a personal touch. Another reason we haven’t fallen completely under the spell of the keyboard, is the gap that still exists between the ‘Techies’ and the ‘Treckies’. It wasn’t until the eighties and nineties that computers became a household item, so you probably have older family members or friends who watched the original Star Trek on TV, and have no idea how to turn on a computer. If there are people on your guest list who write checks to pay their bills, or have never used an ATM, a printed invitation is required, and if they get one, everyone does. Invitations convey the tone for the ceremony in a way an email can’t. By it’s appearance, an invitation lets guests know how formal, or informal, your wedding is going to be. You can include words such as ‘formal wedding’ or ‘beach wedding’ and immediately guests know how to dress. You can put these phrases into an email, but with this much lack of ceremony, adding “Formal dress” simply wouldn’t work. If for some reason, you absolutely have to turn to email for invitations, do them individually. A mass emailed wedding invitation is the last straw when 218 photographers
it comes to good form. For all you ‘Techies’ out there, all is not lost. While your older guests still have to be contacted in person, for your ‘high tech, up-to-the-nanosecond’ friends, it’s perfectly appropriate to go the electronic route for announcements, save the date notices, updates and get-togethers. The exception. A couple who were suddenly offered a position overseas decided to get married before leaving, and had no time to send printed invitations. If faced with a similar dilemma, time is of the essence, and a phone call would suffice, then an email is acceptable. The double standard. It is perfectly correct, and considerate, to include an email address for RSVP’s in your invitations. Guests can also use it for inquiries and requests. So why is it not OK for you to invite them by email, but OK for them to respond by email? Because whatever makes it easier for guests is always within the bounds of courtesy. We are teetering on the edge of etiquette vs technology, and no doubt technology will win. In the meantime there is one last argument for doing it the old fashioned way. Invitations and thank you cards are charming keepsakes, but you can’t make a decent memento out of an email.
“Motto for the bride and groom: We are a work in progress with a lifetime contract.” Phyllis Koss
www.livetechphotovideo.com
a catering company large enough to handle your needs. Feel free to ask the caterer if their staff comes from an agency or if they are employees of the catering company. Wait staff that comes from a temp agency can imply that the catering company doesn’t often handle large, staffed events. Another good idea would be to ask the caterer if they have any events coming up so you can sneak in to take a look at the set up of the room. This will give you ideas for your special event.
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chef, servers & bartenders available
getting ready... Brunch for the guys - snacks for the gals - treats for the limo
197 Talbot St. W., Suite 202 | Leamington | 519-398-8183 | www.thehippiechick.ca
The Perfect Caterer by Filip Rocca - Mezzo Ristorante Finding the perfect caterer is an essential part of any catering event no matter what the size. Weddings, corporate events, parties and family gatherings are all times when the services of a caterer might be needed. Unfortunately, there is no standardized grading system for caterers and anybody can start their own catering business. Here’s how to choose a good caterer so that the food at your event is something memorable, for all the right reasons so read carefully and take notes. Listen for word of mouth recommendations. No amount of advertising can replace a good recommendation from somebody you know and trust. If a friend or acquaintance had a great caterer for their wedding or event, then this is a caterer you should talk to for your next event. Conversely, bad reviews should also be heeded. Also, if the company has been in business many years this will show that they mean business and stick by their word. Schedule a tasting. Caterers who provide food for events should offer to provide you with a tasting, in order to gain your business. This tasting will give you an idea on what to expect for the event but don’t rush into booking this until you have narrowed down a possible menu to avoid multiple tastings and more headaches. This evening will give you a first hand look at the food quality, taste, presentation and service. Consider the caterer’s specialty. Some caterers specialize in larger scale events and have the equipment and expertise to professionally handle larger numbers of guests. Other caterers specialize in smaller intimate events, cocktail parties, or even just delivery of catered food. Be wary of the caterer who claims to be able to do it all, chances are that they don’t excel at any of it. Consider what services you need. Some caterers will only prepare and deliver you the food you ordered, and may even go so far as to set it up. Others can provide fully trained wait staff and support personnel. If you’re having a formal event requiring plated service then you want 220 restaurants
Ask for references. When entrusting a single company to handle the food for your event it is essential that you ask for references. Don’t just ask them to hand over names; instead ask for referrals of several recent events they catered. Also, look online at review sites to see if the caterer has testimonials on their services. Inquire about the food freshness. Many caterers cut corners in food preparation by using frozen products. Fresh is always best and they’re charging you as though it were made fresh. Insist on only using a caterer that uses fresh food, not frozen. Call the local health department. Most catering companies are subject to licensing and regulation by their local health department, and there will be records on any prior complaints, issues and inspections. This is usually considered public information. If the catering company you’re considering hiring has had violations or complaints it’s time to look elsewhere. Ask for a quote. Too often, asking to see the bottom line price is the first step in hiring a caterer when in fact it should be the last. The food for a wedding can be more than 50 percent of the entire event cost; you’re going to get what you pay for. If your caterer is dropping their price you can be assured they’re dropping their quality as well so be careful. Keep in contact. It’s always best to keep a paper trail so when communicating always ask them to summarize the conversation in an email so you can reflect back if their are any discrepancies. Also, keep all receipts of deposits and caterer contact info handy in your phone in case a question or issue pops up during the event.
Where style meets taste
Enjoy our casual atmosphere with a unique balance of stylish metropolitan flare and unprecedented Italian cuisine with eclectic and modern accents. weddings . bridal showers . bachelor(ettes) parties rehearsal dinners. engagement parties . full catering services 804 Erie Street | Via Italia Windsor | 519-252 4055 | www.mezzo.ca
Give a Donation as a Gift
T2B is a local community organization dedicated to providing comfort for those impacted by a life altering illness. It is a locally born, grassroots charitable organization founded on the commitment that all funds raised stay within our local community. Established in 1997 by co-founders Doris Lapico and Tania Sorge, T2B establishes and funds multiple programs that operate within our local hospitals and health care agencies in Windsor-Essex County. The programs created and supported along with more than 200 volunteers help provide the much needed bridge between the hospital and home. Some of our many programs include the nutrition room, concierge program, comfort cart program, comfort blanket program, back pack program, kids kicking cancer, family holiday meals and room refurbishment program. You can support us by attending one of our events, hosting your own fundraiser, making a donation or becoming a volunteer. We thank all those who have supported the comfort mission of T2B over the years.
A local community organization dedicated to providing comfort for those impacted by life altering illness
3200 Deziel Drive Unit 307, Windsor, ON N8W 5K8 519-944-5143 . www.t2b.ca . info@t2b.ca
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Having a memorable wedding is the goal every couple strives for. They want to make it a day that guests will recall for years to come. So how do you make your wedding stand out in their memory? Easy. Give them candy. A beautifully prepared table, laden with tempting sweets, will capture everyone’s attention. With your wedding colours in mind, choose candy that will complement. A coordinated candy buffet looks much more elegant than a random mismatch of colours. Use different shaped bowls and give the table added interest by placing the containers at varying heights. Some phone books piled under the table cover will do the trick. For the added impact, have a large centerpiece such as a chocolate fountain. Supply, scoops, tongs and containers for guests to carry their treats home. A candy bar is usually set back against or near a wall, and that can mean it won’t get the light it deserves. Without the right lighting the candy wrappers can’t do their sparkling best job. Highlight the tempting masterpiece by shining a little light in its direction. Have variety in texture and taste. Chewy, crunchy, soft, sweet, sour, peppermint. Somewhere in that list there is an enticement for everyone. Some guests may have dietary concerns, so add sugar free to your choices, and be sure to label them so they will know which are which. Include some dried fruit and nuts for those who don’t eat candy. Candy buffets are not a new idea, but they are a tried and true method of letting guests bring out their inner child, and they make an indelible impression on their minds.
and what have you done with my mother?
Regardless of how close your relationship is with your mother, even the most loving moms can become virtual strangers when there’s a wedding to be planned. She wants you to be happy, and she wishes you all the best, so why does she sometimes become a source of disagreements and tension? It may seem hard to grasp, but your wedding day is as important to her as it is to you. It’s a monumental day in her life. She raised you, she loves you, and she has a lifetime of experience to offer. Being the one who makes your dreams, and hers, come true is the gold medal for any mother. 222 wedding favours
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Some moms will go along with any arrangements you make, others will be outraged if you purchase nylons without their approval. The tricky part is you never know which she will turn out to be. No matter how well you know your mother, don’t be surprised if wedding bells unleash a side of her you didn’t expect, and suddenly she is having a tantrum over your new pantyhose. The good news is, she hasn’t been possessed, she’s just emotional and trying to do what she thinks is best for you. Whatever your situation turns out to be, understanding and respect will go a long way.
Cassandra & Fabio January 18, 2014 www.livetechphotovideo.com
We take great pride in capturing the moments in time and create some wonderful memories that will last forever. Our style is a mixture of photojournalistic and modern with traditional mixed together to give you a unique mixture. We believe that our unobtrusive style is a key element in capturing the events as they unfold, watching for moments of joy, yet capturing the key elements that will last forever in time. Each of us are original and have a different story to tell, that's why we insist on meeting each client before their shoot. We can learn more about each other while we share our visions for your special day or private shoot. We look forward to meeting you, and capturing your special day.
www.livetechphotovideo.com
Cecile & Norman October 11, 2014 www.chaletstudio.ca
bonded and insured
. 26 years experince 519-890-2812
free estimates
April & Ryan August 31, 2014 www.phatboyproductions.ca
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“Your honeymoon and destination wedding specialist�
free Bridal Registry
Sharifa & Andrew April 25, 2014 www.blushphotos.ca
1499 Ouellette Avenue, Windsor 519-252-3331 or 1-800-953-2875 valentetravel.com
5841 Malden Rd., Suite 118, La Salle 519-972-5588 lstravel@mnsi.net www.lasalletravel.ca TICO # 04503728 224 travel
Our 2014 windsor/essex
Cover Bride Winners’ trip
Ashley & Rhy’s trip to Mexico On November 30th 2014, Rhys and I left from the Toronto Pearson Airport and landed in Cancun Mexico for our grand prize of the 2014 Bridal Confidential Cover Bride Contest - a 7 night all inclusive trip to Mayan Barcelo Colonial Beach Resort for two. The resort is located on one of the most stunning beaches in the world, with crystal-clear turquoise blue waters. The room we stayed in was beautiful and the all of the staff at the resort were energetic, professional and eager to please. During our seven day stay we spent most of our time near the beach soaking up the sun, playing bocce ball and other sports, watching the complimentary dolphin shows, and enjoying the wonderful food and atmosphere. I can’t even describe how magical and perfect our vacation was. I am forever and eternally grateful to Bridal Confidential for making this trip possible. It truly was a dream come true. Thank you to Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia for sponsoring this wonderful experience. Ashley Knight
www.airtransat.ca
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www.justcorkit.com www.justcorkit.com
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Sara & Alex ~ May 12, 2014 www.phatboyproductions.ca
feuding bridesmaids You expect bridesmaids to help you plan the wedding, listen to your concerns, provide comforting reinforcement, and feel your joy. You don’t expect them to be feuding with each other, driving you to distraction with their complaints, and jostling for a better position in the bride’s best friend hierarchy. Bridesmaids are meant to make the bride’s life easier, not drive her into a frenzy. Talk to any recently married bride and she can probably relate horror stories about the trials and tribulations of having bridesmaids, but what’s a wedding without them? Practically worse than no groom. So you have to choose them almost as carefully as you chose him. Super shy, drama queen, procrastinator, and let’s not overlook the friend who stole your future sister-in-law’s boyfriend. You know who they are, and even though they are near and dear, perhaps their best role in your wedding would be that of a guest. The women you choose as bridesmaids should support you, and make your life easier, however, obligations can force you to have bridesmaids you know will be butting heads over every little detail. When lifelong commitments or family pressures corner you into choices you know will cause issues on a monumental scale, the only thing left to do is divide and conquer. Divide by eliminating any potential points of contention before they arise, and the bridesmaids’ dresses are sure to 226 wine making
be on the front lines of the battle. When they’re not happy with each other, agreeing on a dress is out of the question. Defuse the situation by letting each of them choose a slightly different gown. When the choice is theirs, they can’t blame anyone else. The same is true of shoes, jewellery, hairstyles, and in the case of full blown war, even nail polish. Conquer by giving them common ground. No matter how intense the malice they have for each other, as your bridesmaids they share the common goal of helping to make your wedding day perfect, and a little encouragement will go a long way. Letting them know how much you need and appreciate them always smooths things over. Inspire your team with a “Win one for The Gipper” speech, and they just might put their differences aside for your sake. When there’s dissension in the ranks, and your bridesmaids are making the Hatfields and McCoys look like BFFs, stand your ground. From the style of their dresses to the order of their place in the processional, the final decision is yours and yours alone. Bridesmaids don’t have tenure, so if all else fails, and the offending maid is causing so much stress that you are thinking of eloping instead, she may have to turn in her bouquet, and be cut from the entourage. It will be difficult, and there may be tears, but it beats having bridesmaids who are going for each other’s throats.
www.weddings.mastronardiwines.com
Sprucewood Shores is the picture perfect vineyard wedding location. Immerse yourselves in the beauty of nature and the unique architecture of the winery with exclusive access to the entire property and buildings. The charming and rustic buildings are surrounded by panoramic views of the vineyard, a breathtaking sandy beach on Lake Erie, glittering ponds, and gardens. Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery now offers a magnificent 5800 sq ft Vineyard Reception Hall for hosting weddings and events up to 250 guests. Already known for hosting charming weddings in private picturesque surroundings, the elegant winery will now boast an additional reception hall for hosting the ultimate wedding all in one place. “We are now offering the complete wedding and event experience” - Stephen Mitchell, President Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery. The new reception hall plays on ‘elegant and welcoming charm' with warm exposed timbers in the ceiling and panoramic views of the vineyard. Capturing the same classic architecture you already find here at Sprucewood, we have created an event space that fits the true feeling of a vineyard wedding. The hall was designed to maintain the experience of outdoor events with large sliding doors around the perimeter to let nature in. If weather is not ideal, they can just as easily close the doors and turn on the air comfort control. The new building will now extend the wedding season to include early spring and late fall, opening up more dates for couples to get married on.
are intimate and private celebrations, each tailored specifically to reflect your unique vision. Planning your wedding with us gives you the assurance that a wedding specialist will be there to help guide you throughout the entire planning process. The new building boasts a state of the art kitchen for creating delicious and freshly prepared food with superior service and value, matching the quality of the exceptional venue. Our in-house Chef Don of 3D Catering can craft a menu specific to your individual tastes, and he invites you to sample your personalized menu in advance of the wedding day.
Sprucewood is the perfect setting to host your ceremony, reception, and pictures all in one place, surrounded by the natural beauty of the vines and beachfront. Your ceremony can be located on our sandy walk out beachfront or on the expansive lawn in front of the gardens and ponds, or inside of our stately Winery Hall beside the Reception Vineyard Hall. Following the ceremony, your guests can wander the grounds or relax in comfort in our Grand Winery as you take photographs that will capture the beauty of your special day. Visit our website at www.sprucewoodshores. com/photographs/weddings to view photos of our unparalleled scenery. "This was the next step in the evolution of weddings here and I am beyond thrilled to offer this incredible upgrade to our wedding clients.” - Michelle Morrison, Wedding Coordinator. Winery Weddings at Sprucewood Shores
7258 County Rd, 50, Amherstburg | 519.738.9253 weddings@sprucewoodshores.com www.sprucewoodshores.com
ww.peleeisland.com
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www.sidestreetsalon.ca