Bridal Confidential 2017-18 by Bridal Confidential

CONFIDENTIAL.COM london . st. thomas . sarnia . chatham . windsor . essex Renalyn Christiane Sarah

2017 cover winners

ways you can

win a trip for two and be on our next cover!

travel sponsors

page 6

inside everything

you need for your wedding

local

vendors fashions weddings

300 King St., London 519-439-1661 www.doubletreelondon.com

specializing in providing our guests with the utmost in quality and service 323 guest rooms private access floor accommodations available onsite fitness centre, indoor pool, whirlpool 18 banquet rooms comprising 30,000 square feet full service restaurant and lounge onsite Starbucks our convenient downtown location puts us close to via rail, grey hound and minutes from london international airport walking distance to unique shopping, theatre and entertainment options like budweiser gardens

find everything for your

Wedding in our local directory

Cover Winners

Christiane & Kyle london/st. thomas Gown: Sophie’s Gown Shoppe Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hair: Side Street Salon Makeup: n u hair & Make Up Studio

15 London St. Thomas 16 Winner’s Photo Shoot 18 Cover Contest Winners 230 Directory

features 4

Upcoming Wedding Events

A Win, Win, Win Situation

Cover Bride Contest ~ Win A Trip For Two

Cover Shoot Day Photos

Memorable Engagements

2016 London/St. Thomas Winners’ Trip

147 Local Fashions 157 2016 Sarnia/Chatham Winners’ Trip 202 Bride of the Month Winners 223 2016 Windsor/Essex Winners’ Trip

articles 66 To This Day It Works! ~ It Works! International

81 Sarnia Chatham

68 The Search is on for the Perfect Gown It’s your Day Bridal Boutique 78 Wedding Coordination: An Investment in Your Sanity Unmistakably You Boutique Wedding Coordination 106 Every Girl Deservers A Fascinator Carolyn’s Creations 115 The Most Important Call ~ Financial Diva

82 Winner’s Photo Shoot 84 Cover Contest Winners 231 Directory

118 Lasting Wedding Memories - With Everlasting Flowers Forest Glen Herb Farm and B & B 131 Home Staging Works ~ Dimples Decor

161 Windsor Essex 162 Winner’s Photo Shoot 164 Cover Contest Winners 232 Directory 2

166 Get Married In Windsor Essex Nouveau Event Planning 175 Introducing Augustus ~ Caesars Windsor 184 What’s the Single Best Thing Couples can do to Cut Wedding Costs without Sacrificing Luxury? Water’s Edge Event Centre 206 When it comes to hair... It’s all about Attitude! Salon Attitude 214 The Perfect Caterer ~ Mezzo Ristorante 224 Travel Savvy ~ LaSalle Travel Services

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

upcoming

wedding events September 167 The Fall Wedding Event - Windsor 21 london bridal expo 2017 101 True Fantasies Bridal Expo - Chatham

october 121 True Fantasies Fall Bridal Expo - Sarnia

january 21 London bridal Expo 2018 167 Wedding Extravaganza - Windsor 141 Chatham Kent Wedding Show

february 121 True Fantasies Bridal Expo - Sarnia

April 220 Bridal & Event Expo - Windsor

on the cover

a win, win, win situation from Bridal Confidential As we bring out our 17th issue, Bridal Confidential would like to thank all of the local businesses who have supported us over the years since our first issue. We would also like to thank all of the couples who entered our Cover Bride Contest, used our magazine as a wedding guide, and supported our clients by booking their wedding services with them. It has always been our goal to bring about a win, win, win situation, where everyone that is involved with us... wins! We aim to bring local business into contact with local future wedding couples with a directory style magazine that is distributed at wedding shows. Our Cover Bride Contest creates excitement for future wedding couples, and to make sure our clients are included in this excitement, the contest is focused on them and the services they offer. The Grand Prize is won by a point system where the contestants get points by booking/purchasing from our clients. This gives everyone involved with Bridal Confidential the potential to win. Clients win when their business is increased when our contestants book/purchase with them. Contestants win by having a local directory to help with their wedding planning and the opportunity to win one of the prizes sponsored by these businesses. Bridal Confidential wins by continuing to bring out a great magazine. We hope you enjoy this issue and wish you a safe and prosperous year!

from the past

Photographer: Creative Inspirations Photography . www.creativeinspiration.ca Shoot Location: Willow Creek Barn Events . www.willowcreekbarnevents.com LONDON/ST. THOMAS WINNER CONFIDENTIAL.COM london . st. thomas . sarnia . chatham . windsor . essex Renalyn Christiane Sarah

Morgan and David enjoying our first issue from 2007.

Sarnia/Chatham WINNER

2017 cover winners

ways you can

win a trip for two and be on our next cover!

travel sponsors

Christiane Macropoulos (centre) Gown: Sophie’s Gown Shoppe Hairstylist: Side Street Salon Makeup: N U Hair & Make Up Studio

page 6

inside everything

you need for your wedding

local

vendors fashions weddings

Sarah O’Neill (right) Gown: Aliya Bridal Fashions Hairstylist: The Rooted Bohemian Makeup: N U Hair & Make Up Studio

Windsor/Essex WINNER

Renalyn Gicole (left) Gown: It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique Hairstylist: Salon Attitude Makeup: NU Hair & Make Up Studio

Appear on our next cover and win a trip for two. See page 6. 4

Owners: Lynda Cameron & Christine Cameron Editor & Marketing Manager: Jay Cameron Graphic Design: Ann Conroy Annual Publication: 2017 - 2018 Issue 17th 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.

Est. 1948

Bridal Specialists for

years!

known for our

huge selection!

London

517 York Street 519-433-2865

Kitchener

1780 King Street East 519-745-8545

Windsor

5970 Tecumseh Rd., East 519-974-3681

Mississauga

2200 Dundas Street East

905-270-6200

www.sophiesgownshoppe.com Photo Credit: Stella York

win a trip for 2

and be on our next cover!

Renalyn Sarah

Christiane

3 contests 3 grand prize winners Every year Bridal Confidential holds three online Cover Bride Contests. One for the London/St. Thomas area, one for the Sarnia/Chatham area, and one for the Windsor/Essex area. The Grand Prize for each contest is an all-inclusive trip for 2, two full days of pampering and the winning brideto-be appears on our next cover. 6

There is also a second place winner, third place and so on... See last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prizes on pages 18, 84 and 164. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contest runs from September 15, 2017 to April 29, 2018. All brides from the London/St. Thomas, Sarnia/Chatham and Windsor/Essex areas that are getting married in 2018 or 2019 are eligible.

how to enter To enter, all you have to do is: Email a photo of you and your fiancé along with your full names, date of marriage, and city you are from to lynda@bridalconfidential.com and you will be entered. NOTE: If sending a professional photo, include the photographer’s name.

Winners are Determined by the highest number of points

three ways to get

points

You receive points by booking/purchasing from any business on our site or in this magazine. This includes any of your wedding functions, such as engagement parties, stag & does, rehearsal parties, etc. You can also receive points for nonwedding related purchases, for example; going out for dinner, having your hair done or buying flowers for any occasion and so on. Every time you book or purchase with any of our clients you will receive points.

how to win

Sarah

hints from

2017 Sarnia/Chatham Cover Bride Winner

Jason and I got engaged in December of 2015. I was so ecstatic and happy, I couldn’t wait to plan our dream wedding. I immediately started searching for bridal shows in our area. I was lucky and The True Fantasies Bridal Expo was coming to the Holiday Inn that February! My soon-to-be mother-in-law and my grandma attended with me and that’s where I met Bridal Confidential. Instantly, I was obsessed and wanted to win this contest. As soon as, I got home I emailed Lynda a picture of Jason and I, and of course double checked that I would be getting 300 points for attending the bridal show. I had joined the contest in February of 2016 and it was ending in April. I had no chance of winning - then I found out that since I wasn’t getting married until 2017, I was still eligible for the next contest, and my competitive side just kicked right back in. I booked all our vendors through the Bridal Confidential website and magazine, we only ate at places we could get points, we attended bridal shows all over. Jason thought I was crazy, but I told him we would win - AND WE DID! I couldn’t be happier this was an amazing, fun and exciting experience.

To receive your points:

2 3

Email the name of the business along with a receipt to: lynda@bridalconfidential.com Attending selected Bridal Shows. Come to the Bridal Confidential booth, and fill out a ballot to receive your points and enter a draw for additional points. Get points on our Facebook page. Up to 500 points from ‘likes’ can be applied to the Cover Bride Contest. For Terms & Conditions and details on points visit www.bridalconfidential.com

on our website

directory of businesses in your area details and updates on our contests photos of local weddings videos of our photo shoots

Remember to like us on Facebook

2017 Cover Shoot Day Photographer: Creative Inspirations Photography ~ Videographer: Through The Lens Productions

At Side Street Salon, our cover winners Christiane, Renalyn and Sarah had their hair done by stylists from their areas.

Christiane: Side Street Salon, London Stylist: Suke

Renalyn: Salon Attitude, LaSalle Stylist: Marylou

Sarah: The Rooted Bohemian, Petrolia Stylist: Lindsay

NU Hair & Makeup Studio provided the location and applied the makeup for all three of our cover winners. Makeup Artists: Ula and Nina

Ramada Inn London provided a great lunch and change room!

Getting ready for the shoot at Sophie’s Gown Shoppe, London

Escorted in Style by Michelle from A Universal Limousine

Blanca from Sophie’s

Renalyn’s Gown: It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique LaSalle Christiane’s Gown: Sophie’s Gown Shoppe London

Sarah’s Gown: Aliya Bridal Fashions Sarnia

Willow Creek Barn Events hosted our photo shoot location.

Thank Thank you you toto all all ofof our our sponsors. sponsors. 9

Susan . www.foreverpreciousmemories.com . seliuk@TAIA.ca

memorable engagements

One Moment Can Change Your Life... I always say that one moment can change your life... well that moment happened to me on Friday, September 25th 2009, as I was walking up the aisle as a bridesmaid at my best friend’s wedding. I remember hearing this voice singing in the background as we took that long journey from the hotel to our spot in the line up front. His voice just sang to me, it was like we were the only two people there, and I was like WOW who’s that?

After following him around all night and begging him to come sing for First Fridays at Limbo I realized I was instantly interested in him and totally trying to figure out how to play it cool. I started out by only seeing him on First Fridays but as the New Year rolled around I made myself more visible by ‘showing up’ everywhere. I think that triggered his interest and it didn't take long then! I think the rate we moved at made everyone nervous but when you know you know, and we knew this was a forever kind of love. On a drive home from a weekend spent in Toronto in March of 2010 he turned to me and said "I want to make it clear that you can’t date anyone else" I was like DUH... and well, we have been inseparable ever since. We moved in immediately to what we called our love nest and over the past 7 years we have travelled the world (Vegas, Florida, Mexico, France, Taiwan, Hong Kong) and welcomed our two fur babies Benny & Sadie, bought a house, and are now the proud owners of our business Grind Cafe & Catering Co. located in Sarnia. There was only one thing missing? My Ring. LOL. I knew the time would come and on Christmas Eve 2016 in front of my family he got down on one knee and I said YES as he's my forever no matter what. I love him so much. So to everyone out there reading this know one thing. One moment truly can change your life and good things happen when you least expect them to. Melissa Cameron

Melissa & Brian

the lights of my life Frank Michael Photography

Michael and I met three years ago when my girlfriend and I decided to try out a new karaoke bar. We ended up at the Barrel House in Windsor where Michael happened to be sitting at the bar. My girlfriend said she was sure she knew him but didn’t want to walk up to him in case he didn’t remember her. As he was getting ready to leave I stopped him and ask him if he knew her, of course he did. After a few minutes of chit -chat I asked him to have a seat with us. He left, saying he had to be at a friend’s house, but that he may come back. After about 15 minutes he returned. We talked all night and he took my number!

Vanessa & Michael 12

We got engaged on December 12, 2016 at Lakeside Park during the Festival of Lights in front of the ‘will you marry me’ lights! He surprised me with all my friends and family being there! I couldn’t have done it better myself ! I cannot wait to marry my best friend this coming October.

never missed a wedding in 24 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

Cover Winners

Christiane & Kyle london/st. thomas Gown: Sophieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gown Shoppe Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hair: Side Street Salon Makeup: n u hair & Make Up Studio

london/st. thomas 2017 cover bride contest winners

Christiane & Kyle My photo shoot day

by Christiane Macropoulos

Wow! The contest is over and Kyle and I are ecstatic to be the winners of the Bridal Confidential Cover Bride Contest for London/St.Thomas of 2017! For the last several months, we lived and breathed everything Bridal Confidential. We dreamt about winning this contest and finally all of our efforts paid off. We want to thank our family and friends who supported us by voting and spreading the word about the contest and continually cheering us on throughout this crazy but exciting time of our lives. None of this would have been possible without you and we cannot thank you all enough! Our day started off with Michelle from A Universal Limousine knocking on our door, surprising us with a limo bus. We felt like celebrities and were very excited for what was to come. Michelle was very professional and friendly and always attentive. She provided us with top class service and made us feel special the entire day. Our first stop of the day was Side Street Salon where we met with Jen from Through the Lens Productions. Kyle and I were a little camera shy at first but Jen made us feel so comfortable that in no time at all we forgot the camera was even there. We are so grateful that she was able to capture the entire day for us. After meeting Jen we went into Side Street Salon where they created my hairstyle for the shoot. The stylist, Suke, took his time and was very detailed oriented on each tress of hair to make it look perfect! Our second stop of the day was Blackfriars Catering and Bistro where we picked up a gift certificate for a dinner for two. We are really looking forward to a night out where we can relax and enjoy each others company. Then off we went to Angelo’s Bakery where they gifted us with an amazing food basket which included wraps, fruit and veggies and an array of yummy baked goods. Our next stop was Homewood Suites by Hilton where we were presented with an over-night stay for two. This will add the finishing touch to our evening on the town with dinner at Blackfriars.

Next we headed to Collins Formal Wear where Kyle was ‘suited up’ in a beautiful blue tuxedo. The service there was amazing! They helped put the finishing touches on, and in no time flat Kyle looked like the most handsome “groom” I had ever seen. Following the tuxedo fitting we headed to N U Hair and Makeup Studio. From the moment we walked in the door, we felt very welcomed. The girls were professional, and graciously allowed my input in the creative process. I felt like an absolute princess! Our next adventure was Sophie’s Gown Shoppe to get ready for the photo shoot. I was dressed in a beautiful ball gown with a fitted bodice adorned with sparkling beads and was completed with a veil. I was finally looking more like a bride! It was so much fun to see Kyle’s reaction as I walked into the room in a wedding dress! There we were presented with our all-inclusive trip for two provided by Transat and Travel Agents in Action for our honeymoon to the Paradisus in Cancun, Mexico. We are looking forward to relaxing in the sun and celebrating being married!. We all got into the limo and headed to our last destination, The Elm Hurst Inn to start the photo shoot. Anita our Photographer from Creative Inspirations made us feel so comfortable and had lots of innovative ideas. We truly enjoyed our time with her at the Elm Hurst and shared lots of laughs. We were shown some of the photos and cannot wait to see the rest! The whole day was absolutely amazing! Thank you to all the sponsors and vendors for their gifts, contributions, and time they all gave in making our day so special and unforgettable. We met some amazing people and feel so blessed to have had this experience. It was a day we will always remember. This entire experience of entering the contest from start to finish was truly a great adventure. Kyle and I have made memories that will last a lifetime. We could not have done this without the opportunity given by Bridal Confidential and for that we are genuinely thankful.

Cover Winners

Christiane & Kyle london/st. thomas Gown: Sophie’s Gown Shoppe Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hair: Side Street Salon Makeup: n u hair & Make Up Studio

Thank You to our Sponsors All Inclusive Trip for Two: Transat, Travel Agents in Action & Bridal Confidential Photographer: Creative Inspirations Photography Videographer: Through the Lens Productions Gown: Sophie’s Gown Shoppe Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hair: Side Street Salon

Makeup: N u Hair & Make Up Studio Limousine: A Universal Limousine Service Gift Basket: Angelo’s Italian Bakery & Market Dinner for Two: Blackfriars Catering & Bistro Overnight Stay: Homewood Suites by Hilton

Photoshoot Location: Elmhurst Inn & Spa. See photos and video at bridalconfidential.com under ‘Gallery’.

Susan . www.foreverpreciousmemories.com . seliuk@TAIA.ca

cover bride contest winners...

1st Place Winners Christiane & Kyle

2nd Place Winners Pamela & James

3rd Place Winners Katrina & Rick

4th Place Winners Apollonia & Smyrnios

5th Place Winners Allison & Eric

6th Place Winners Amber & Tyler

7th Place Winners Sarah & Yusri

8th Place Winners Amanda & Andrew

9th Place Winners Rachael & Michael

...london/St. Thomas 2017

10th Place Winners Meghan & Stephen

11th Place Winners Sarah & Jeffery

12th Place Winners Mackenzie & Thomas

winners & Prizes ~ Thank You to our Sponsors 1st All Inclusive Trip for Two ~ Transat & Travel Agents in Action. 2nd Calphalon Contemporary Cookware Set ~ Bed Bath & Beyond.

13th Place Winners Rose & Mohamed

3rd

IRobot Roomba 780 Vacuum ~ Bed Bath & Beyond.

4th

30 Bottles of Wine with choice of red or white from Kenridge Classic Selection ~ Vintnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cellar-Huron Inc.

5th

Overnight Stay for Two with Breakfast ~ Windermere Manor Hotel.

6th Dinner for Two ~ La Casa Ristorante. 7th

Dinner for Two ~ Black Trumpet Restaurant.

8th

Overnight Stay for 2 with Breakfast Double Tree by Hilton London.

9th

Overnight Stay for Two ~ Courtyard Marriott.

10th Pass for Four Players with Rental Equipment, Safety Gear & 100 Paint Balls per player ~ Adrenaline Paintball 11th One Year Sock Club Subscription ~ Collins Formal Wear 12th Two Personalized Hangers, one for the Bride & one for the Groom ~ Touch of Heart 13th $250 Gift Certificate ~ Caralis Weddings & Events. 14th Place Winners Meg & Mitchell

14th Two Pieces of Handmade Footwear Jewellery, one for the Bride, one for the Maid-of-honour ~ Barefoot Designs by Crystal

unavailable... at the moment

There will be a lot to do on the morning of your wedding but answering your cell shouldn’t be one of them. Take a call, and you run the risk of getting trapped in a conversation with a long-winded guest, or giving directions to your hopelessly lost uncle while you should be having your hair done. But you can’t just ignore it (after all it’s playing “Here Comes the Bride”). What if it’s important? There’s only one solution. You give your phone to a message manager who leaves the room with it. There may be a little separation anxiety, but you’re not going to answer it, so you don’t need the distraction of hearing it ring. If there’s some earth shattering news, like the florist called to say they mistakenly sent an extra corsage, someone will tell you. Lots of little ones at your wedding? Don’t forget to ask you caterer about child sized menus.

bachelor & wedding parties

6457 Riverside Dr., Melbourne . 519-453-0434 . info@adrenalinepaintball.com . www.adrenalinepaintball.com 20

wedding planning made easy at...

London’s Largest Bridal Show Western Fair District Agriplex Building London Sat. Sept. 23 & Sun. Sept. 24, 2017 11-5 daily Sat. Jan. 13 & Sun. Jan. 14, 2018 11-5 daily

exciting fashion shows

Saturday 1pm and 3:30pm Sunday 1pm and 3:30pm

receive a free copy of Wedding Bells ~ Today’s Bride & Bridal Confidential

Admission

$12 (hst incl.) free parking

win your wedding gown & dozens of other prizes

Show organizers: Olga, Jeff & Isabel Traher 519-679-1810 /LondonBridalExpo

Love

courtly

There are a number of theories on how the boutonniere (from the French for buttonhole) came to be, but the one we like the best claims this tradition began with medieval knights who wore their ladies colours when entering a tournament or going into battle. This gallant gesture is where we got the expression ‘wearing your heart on your sleeve’. Wedding protocol states that the groom is the only one who wears your colours. The groomsmen wear boutonnieres that are complimentary but different.

Hotel & Suites

a luxurious experience your wedding guests will remember newly renovated full service hotel premium amenities complimentary wi-fi & parking located adjacent to 401 and 402 fitness room . indoor pool

Complimentary Honeymoon Suite when booking 10 rooms or more. 855 Wellington Rd., London . Call Donnita at: 519-668-7900 ext. 2107 d.maxim@yxulo.com . www.holidayinn.com/londonon

® Make room for a little fun.™

When your knight wears your colours he won’t be going into battle but his boutonniere will. It will be squished, rubbed and subjected to the brohug. It can’t be protected all day, but if you want the bloom to look fresh in the photographs that are still to come, removing it for the receiving line cuts down on the damage. Informal weddings? When the groom isn’t wearing a suit, remember some boutonnieres are too heavy for a shirt. Choose one that won’t sag the material.

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

864 Exeter Rd. London | 19-680-0077 Ext 5301 | amanda.shaw@courtyardmarriott-london.ca | www.marriott.com/yxucy 22 accommodations

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

Homewood Suites by Hilton London . 45 Bessemer Rd., London . 519-686-7700 . www.londonontario.homewoodsuites.com

I didn’t think of that

Your shower gift ribbons and bows made an ideal mock bouquets for the rehearsal, but did you get a photo of it? ... Oh darn! Extra bartenders. Guests will happily wait in line to congratulate you, cheerfully understand the wedding party’s delay, and patiently stand in the buffet line, but make them wait at the bar and they are not going to be happy. The average is one bartender per 50 guests. Avoid long wait lines by planning accordingly. Oddly shaped or overweight invitations may cost more to mail. If in doubt take one to a post office for weighing and pricing. Give them directions. Not everyone, including those who live in the area, will be familiar with how to get from the ceremony venue to reception site. Post or e-mail the information, and for your ‘don’t know how to use a computer’ guests, mail them a map. Practice the kiss. Who goes left, who goes right? Your right or my right? When the officiant says “You may now kiss the bride” it has to be executed perfectly. The kiss seals your vows, and delights your audience. Some pre-practice will ensure the kiss will be an emotional moment instead of a hilarious video. Decorative clips can turn a plain pair of shoes into Cinderella slippers, however if not chosen carefully they can also turn the hem of our gown into a tattered rag. Look for shoe embellishments that won’t snag delicate fabric.

Nothing is more beautiful than a room alight with candles, but candles have one downside. They go out. And when no one has been assigned to replace them, the room’s warm glow vanishes. Planning to give the bridesmaids matching jewellery? Check for allergies first. Over the past few decades, food sensitivities have gone from rare to common, and there’s a good chance some, or several, of your guests will have diet restrictions. Compiling a list of who can’t eat what is not only considerate, it’s safe. A hidden peanut could result in paramedics joining your party. As a guest goes to put the gift on the table they realize the card is not secure, or the edge of the wrapping has come loose, but thanks to the thoughtful bride there’s scotch tape on the table.

I didn’t notice that

Your cake will look amazing by that wall, your gift table will shine over by the window. Perfect, but what’s behind them. Maybe it’s human nature to overlook the small things when we’re trying to assemble the big picture. This oversight can result in a cake resting on an elegantly draped pedestal with a ‘WASHROOMS’ sign behind it. If it’s going to be in front of a window, what’s outside the window? If it’s going to be in a corner... is that a circuit box back there? accommodations 23

Your Day ~Your Way

Our experienced Event Planner and on-site Chef will make your once-in-a-lifetime event memorable and stress free.

D Dorchester golf s club

Dorchester Golf Club is one of the area’s finest year round facilities. We can’t wait to meet you, you’ll fall in love with all there is to see.

ceremonies . receptions . showers . bachelorette parties . stag & does Dorchester Golf Club guarantees that your event receives privacy and exclusive attention! 3342 Hamilton Rd., Dorchester | 519-268-8199 | kimshaw@rogers.com | www.dorchestergolf.com

a haven of historic charm and natural beauty with authentic country inn hospitality 81175 Benmiller Line, Goderich Contact Marianne ~ 519-524-2191 . 800-265-1711 mnovotna@benmiller.ca . www.benmiller.ca ceremonies . receptions . accommodations

request your wedding guide or a tour

accommodations/banquet halls 27

German Canadian Club

1 Cove Rd. London 519-433-2901 www.germancanadianclublondon.com

himmer

hines...

Applying shimmer? Use a light touch. If you’re planning a lot of lively dancing at your wedding, remember it’s an activity that promotes a glow of its own, and with too much shimmer you’ll end up with nothing more than an excessively shiny face. If it looks strange in person, wait till you see the photographs. No matter how much you dislike the words ‘matte finish’ keep some face powder on hand.

Beautiful setting Exceptional service

Bridal

blunder

The music began, the doors opened, the bride entered, and I felt a sudden rush of panic. Was I at the wrong wedding? This girl didn’t look familiar. The one I knew wore a sleek shoulder length hairstyle and almost no makeup. This one seemed to be going on the ‘higher the hair - closer to God’ principle. I had to admit that whoever she was her eyelashes were amazing. Too amazing to be believed, and I wondered if she had that sleepy look because they were so heavy. Within a few seconds it hit me that I was at the right wedding it was the bride that looked wrong. Loved ones attend to see you get married, or at least someone who looks remotely like you, and you want to look drop dead gorgeous. The trick is finding a happy medium. Makeup, hair extensions, and false eyelashes are all meant to enhance not alter. Admittedly your wedding day allows for extra embellishment, but try your look in advance so you can get the opinion of trusted friends. If one of them looks at you and says “I can hear you but I can’t see you” start bringing it down until you look familiar gain.

A great marriage is not when the ‘perfect couple’ comes together. It is when an imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences. Dave Meurer

7038 Egremont Dr., London . 519-641-2519 events@westhavengolf.com . westhavengolf.com 28 banquet halls

Mocha Shrine Centre Catering b y Delectable Eats

Reception& Banquet Facility To view our facility and catering menu please visit our website and click on Hall Rental & Catering. or reach us by Instagram delectableeatscateringco

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 Dimitriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal touch and serviced by a 5 Star hospitality staff.

Dining room for up to 30 ~ two banquet halls for up to 200 Ample parking. 468 Colborne St,, London Office 519-672-1391 . Catering 519-852-7054 mochashrniers@rogers.com . www.mochashriners.org

Married to the idea of a perfect Wedding? So are we.

photographs provided by rebecca nash photography

Whether you prefer an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, 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 that is unforgettable.

EARN MARRIOTT REWARDS on every event you hold with the

Delta London Armouries

325 Dundas St., London . 519-640-5054 brittany.labrie@whg.com . www.marriott.com/YXUDL

& delta london armouries

Barn Events

Beautiful 1910 Century Barn with rustic appeal, crystal clear creek, spring fed pond and scenic photo sites. 12005 Argyle St., Ailsa Craig | 519-878-1063 willowcreekbarnevents@gmail.com | www.willowcreekbarnevents.com

Masonic Centre of Elgin

newly renovated to offer you and your guests elegance and country club charm Venue exclusive to Kathyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catering

42703 Fruit Ridge Line, St. Thomas | 519-637-1606 | masoniccentre@gmail.com

Kathyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catering

high quality, fresh ingredients ~ excellent service 42703 Fruit Ridge Line, St. Thomas . 519-633-0101 or 519-870-6775 kathyscatering2003@gmail.com . www.kathyscatering.net 32 banquet halls/catering

Your Dream Wedding Awaits Spacious & Elegant Banquet Facility Exceptional Gourmet Cuisine Boutique Hotel Featuring Well Appointed Guest Suites Friendly & Attentive Team with On-Site Wedding Coordinator So

comfortable, so relaxing, so hospitable,

You

may never want to leave.

A tranquil park-like setting ~ Within the City of London

200 Collip Circle, London . 519-858-1391 1-800-997-4477 . bbrandt@windermere.uwo.ca www.windermeremanor.com

Perfect Setting Impeccable Service Ceremony, cocktail hour, pictures and reception in one location includes: l ready room for bridal suite l cake cutting l reception linen (black or white) l rehearsal l choice of 4 ceremony sites l covered terrace ceremony l ongoing consultation

Dedicated to exceeding your expectations

l bartender & staff services l 2 free rounds of golf l less stress & travel for your guests

none can match pine knotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unparalleled value & experience

5421 Hamilton Rd., Dorchester 519-268-3352 ext. 22 | events@pineknotgolf.com | www.pineknotgolf.com

specializing in providing our guests with the utmost in quality and service

323 guest rooms to accommodate your out-of-town guests private access floor accommodations available full service restaurant and lounge ~ onsite starbucks accommodate weddings up to 650 guests ~ executive & sous chef onsite customized & all-inclusive wedding packages available 300 King St., London . 519-439-1661 . www.doubletreelondon.com

London

wedding Garden Officiant Available Ceremony & Rehearsal set in London’s beautiful wedding garden, chapel or location of your choice. All inclusive Wedding Package 1057 Oxford St.,E.

London

(Prince William Room)

519-453-1690

w w w . w e ddi ngday c er emo ni es .ca

I thought it looked OK

Worried that your taste is a little too colourful? Concerned because you think decor overkill is a good thing? I know a way around this dilemma. Christmas. It’s the only time of year we can hide our coordination shortcomings behind a tree. For those of us who are unable to see why colours clash, or don’t know when to stop decorating, Christmas makes it all work. Between December 1st and early January, excessive and garish have no meaning. And it gets better. You can wrap all your favours like little Christmas presents, use red with abandon, decorate everything in sight, and there can’t be too many twinkling lights. Candy canes and tiny Santa hats on dinner plates, reindeers pulling sleighs in centerpieces, and in case that isn’t enough to dazzle the eye - plaid dinner napkins. You couldn’t get away with that at any other time of year. That’s the beauty of it, no matter what you do, or overdo, it will look amazing! If you’re lucky, and it’s a white Christmas, you will be able to capture photographs in the snow. No other wedding photos can compare to the stunning splendor of a winter background. Stark simplicity and no colour at all... go figure.

seating for up to 100

unique WEDDINGS attention to every detail

Nova Markina Photography . Twelfth Night Events . To Suit Your Fancy . Springhill Flowers . Aly Cat Makeup . Ballett's Bridal . Primarily Paper

The Berkshire Club 500 Berkshire Drive, London 519-471-4590 jayme.perdue@sifton.com www.Sifton.com/berkshireclub 36 banquet halls

indoor or outdoor weddings on site ~ chair covers ~ arbour podium rentals special wedding menu prepared by our 3 in house chefs ~ full service bar bright open space banquet hall with fireplace for up to 180 guests. picturesque covered bridge ~ ideal for photos

KETTLE CREEK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 320 Carlow Road . Port Stanley . 519-782-7500 . kettlecreekgolf@gmail.com . www.golfkettlecreek.com

You

I thought

brought it!!!

Who is riding with whom, in which car and what are they supposed to bring? The flowergirl was supposed to ride with the parents, someone forgot the bride’s dancing slippers, and tell me the best man has the rings. All these mishaps come under the heading of last minute excitement. Simple solution. Post a list of who goes where and what they are to bring at the front door. No one exits without checking. To make sure the ladies don’t miss it add a photo of Tom Cruise. For the men? Marilyn of course.

if you have it...bring

“You just told me your wedding shoes have 4” heals, why are you wearing flats?” “You knew it had to match, so why didn’t you bring the heirloom veil?” I can’t speak for bridal shop staff but I’m assuming these questions have flitted through their minds a time or two as they witness a bride posing on tiptoe, or trying to describe (can’t be done) a shade of off-white. If you have studied ballet you might manage to gain the necessary height, but gown and shoes are a unit that are not going to look the same without each other. Even the heels the shop just lent you won’t do it. Putting together a wedding ensemble is very precise and each element should be chosen with the others on hand.

the bling bride A stunning gown with a shimmering bodice, a glimmering necklace, and a sparkling tiara. Beautiful, but where’s the bride? Wanting to shine (literally) on the wedding day makes it easy to fall into the world of bling and come out looking like a jewellery display at Christmas. It’s too much of a good thing and the focal point, the bride, gets lost in the glitter. If you’re unsure whether or not you’re beginning to reflect light like a mirror, and your best friends have opposing opinions, use a tip from Coco Chanel.

more than just golf

indoor & outdoor weddings breathtaking views . exquisite food . manicured grounds

Your guests will enjoy the benefit of being treated by professionals who will provide your event with the commitment to help capture the meaning behind the moment.

Lisa Nancekivell, Wedding and Events Manager 51 Holcroft St., Ingersoll | 519-485-4910 ext 27 | www.ingersollgolf.com 38 banquet halls

She would turn away from the mirror and when she turned back, if any one item on her outfit stood out, drawing her eye away from the overall ensemble, she removed it. In the case of bling, as you turn, do you see the glitter or do you see yourself? If your eye registers the shimmer before the bride start bringing it down. Bling is in, but remember, at one time, so were puffy shoulders.

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.

1922 Highland Heights, London . 519-681-8223 ext. 226 karen@highlandcountryclub.com . www.highlandcountryclub.com

Savvy Bridal

Consignment Boutique full selection of designer gowns mother of the bride/groom

formal wear

personalized service budget friendly

Becky Veen Photography appointment only

40 bridal shops

. 519-673-9754

savvybridal@gmail.com

www.savvybridal.ca

in style

going

Escorting the bride to the wedding is as much a part of the ritual as the processional. For centuries affluent brides have been carried in sedan chairs, or ridden in carriages, while those with less disposable income might have the luxury of arriving on a horse. The brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s method of transportation was a reflection of her wealth and status, however, when it comes to being escorted, limousines are the great equalizer. Today every bride can arrive in royal style. We even have something our wealthiest ancestors could never dream of - surround sound.

Photography: Blu

Garber’s Bridal

Est. 1930

250 Dundas Street London 519.433.4043 www.GarbersBridal.com /GarbersBridal

Monday, Tuesday, Friday 10 - 6:30 Wednesday & Thursday 10 - 8:30 Saturday 9 - 5:30 Sunday 12 - 5 (Jan. 1st - Mar. 31st)

See us at London Bridal Expo! Sept. 23th - 24th, 2017 & Jan. 13th - 14th, 2018 Western Fair District

on the

Safe Side

Safa Tailor’s

alterations & dry cleaning

Despite having been reminded to bring an emergency kit, and in the hope that the night clerk could help, the distraught bride approached her venue’s front desk with a question heard at almost every wedding. “Do you have a safety pin?” According to the concierge of a popular venue, most brides are unprepared for minor emergencies and end up at the desk seeking assistance. Because of the frequent requests for help, and because the concierge is a nice guy, he keeps pins, tissues and even white chalk on hand. Desk clerks may have safety pins but they’re not going to have lint rollers, baby powder, nail polish or pantyhose. What goes in the kit? That’s up to each individual bride. With countless magazines and websites outlining what to bring, the problem is not what goes in the kit, the problem is not taking it seriously enough to follow through. Months in advance set aside a bag and begin adding items as you think of them, and because you don’t want it to become a suitcase keep in mind that you only need small amounts. Travel size is a wonderful thing. It’s up to you to pack the kit but it’s not up to you to hold on to it. This job goes to a bridesmaid. When someone is in need of super glue they can go to her with their dilemma.

bridal alteration specialist for over 25 years 79-B Wharncliffe Rd., S (at Springbank) London 519-434-8006 226-977-8012 safatailors@hotmail.com www.safatailor.com 41

the

Reception

room

It’s tempting to book a reception venue based on your dreams, but your choice affects many others, so reality and compromise may have to play a part, and some questions have to be answered before the decision is finalized.

Is it available?

Many venues are booked one to two years in advance, so it’s best to save time and fuel by calling your top contenders to find out if they can accommodate you.

Is it convenient?

Once Upon a Time Weddings The Dress – Make It An Experience, Not A Decision. Your Bridal Suite is Waiting for You! 20 Caradoc St., N. Strathroy . info@onceuponatimeweddings.ca

www.onceuponatimeweddings.ca

Inconvenience of any kind always ranks high on the guestgripes list. No one wants to drive for an hour to get from ceremony to reception (bet you’ve done it - I have), and it’s surprising how many people get sidetracked. Weddings run on a schedule, and wayward guests hold everything up. With everyone already gathered for the ceremony it’s best to keep them that way with easy routes and short distances.

Is there enough room? Before your venue coordinator can answer that question they will need to know your guest count, and you will need to anticipate your guests. When the room is ‘just big enough’ there won’t be room for last minute or unexpected additions.

Is there too much room? That seems like an odd question but a small reception in a huge room feels empty, and atmosphere doesn’t stand a chance. Granted you want lots of space for guests to move about and mingle, but too much space makes it appear as though there were a lot of no-shows.

Parking and access? How many cars will their lot accommodate? Are there fees, and is there wheelchair access? If it rains will staff be available with umbrellas? If it snows who will clear the walkways? And because another large event on the same day reduces parking spaces and extends washroom line ups, what other events are booked for that day?

Are there restrictions?

Hangers . Cake Toppers . Table Numbers & More 905-999-8776 . www.touchofheart.ca info@touchofheart.ca www.facebook.com/touchofheartcanada 42

Does the venue allow outside catering? Are there decorating limitations? Will your vendors have early access? Is there an outdoor area for smokers? And if your beloved pet is going to be included in the festivities, what’s their policy on Bowser? Every wedding will have its own unique requirements. Making a need-to-know list will help you avoid the annoying and time consuming “Oh darn, I forgot to ask about...” scenario.

weddings... bridal showers... rehearsal dinners... brunch...

catering & bistro bistro available for private parties personalized catering service farm to table exclusive caterers for the grosvenor lodge, civic garden & elsie perrin williams estate 2017 trip advisor certificate of excellence

46 Blackfriars Street London 519-667-4930 blackfriarsbistro.com

weet S Sensations

chocolate fountain catering

a fountain of tantalizing chocolate will make a lasting impression on your guests. 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@bell.net www.chocolatefountaincatering.ca 44 caterers

history legend? or

Talk to 100 brides and 98 of them will tell you something went awry on their wedding day, but now that it’s all over they find it humorous, and even enjoy trying to outdo each other in the ‘you think your day was bad - that’s nothing’ competition. It may be little consolation, but mishaps now will place you in high regard later on, however you can never beat the long standing record for ‘worst wedding ever’. This award goes to the legendary 1867 wedding of Italy’s Princess Maria. Some sources claim it’s all true others say its validity is debatable, but legend or history it doesn’t get any worse than this. Maria’s disastrous day began with the suicide of her wardrobe mistress. The superstitious bride ordered a new gown, causing the first of many delays. The procession was held up when a mounted officer collapsed from sunstroke, the palace gates wouldn’t open to let the bride out, and a gatekeeper was found dead under suspicious circumstances. The ceremony itself went smoothly enough, but directly afterward the best man demonstrated his lack of skill with a firearm, and managed to shoot himself in the head. The distraught couple pressed on to the railway station where the officiant who had drawn up the marriage contract suffered a stroke, and the stationmaster was killed when he fell in front of the approaching bridal train. But wait. The day isn’t over yet. In light of recent events the couple opted to abandon the train in favour of taking a carriage back to the safety of the palace. Riding alongside, and displaying a chest full of military honours, a wedding guest fell under the newlywed’s carriage and was killed when a wheel drove one of the medals into his heart. If there’s any accuracy in the old adage ‘fact is stranger than fiction’, then Princess Maria holds the dubious honour of having the unluckiest wedding day in history.

sec u rity A room full of expensive gifts where an outsider won’t be noticed absconding with them. What self-respecting thief could pass up the opportunity? With no one regulating the door intruders can wander in, making it the perfect chance for the less-than-honest to take advantage. Appropriately dressed and mingling with the crowd, thieves are adept at blending in without drawing suspicion. While the odds against it happening are in your favour, a little caution on your part can help guarantee it. Take the ease out of pilfering by choosing a prime location for your gift table. Clearly visible, brightly lit, well away from exits, and placed in a highly populated area, like beside a candy bar, helps make the table less vulnerable. Appointing a giftguard who can oversee the table, keep it looking attractive, and greet guests as they approach will deter theft, or you can outwit them by having gifts removed to a locked room. For a card box - think big. A decorative cage looks fabulous, and since it’s not every day you see someone walking across a room with a bird cage it would draw attention, and elevate the culprit’s risk factor. Protecting gifts is not your only concern, guests are at risk too. Purses left on tables while the owners boogy down. Jackets draped over chairs with wallets there for the taking. Some crooks may be more interested in your guests than your gifts, and some are not there for snatching purposes at all. They come for the free food, alcohol and pretty bridesmaids. Sounds harmless enough until you get the bar bill. Wedding crashers rely on the room being full of strangers, so if you notice someone unfamiliar don’t hesitate to check them out.

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.

C at e r ing b y Delectable Eats 468 Colborne St., London (Inside Mocha Shrine Centre) 519-852-7054 | delectableeats@sympatico.ca | www.mochashriners.org delectableeatscateringco 46 caterers

Rain cards

If your outdoor wedding has an indoor back up plan, it’s important to include this tidbit of information with your invitations. A rain card lets guests know where to go in the event of a downpour, and assures them in advance that they won’t be subject to nature’s fury.

your

Flowers

Ask your florist which flowers will last the longest or, hold up throughout your day and compliment your look, not overwhelm it. Fresh flowers to top the cake... great idea but only if the flowers are pesticide free. Another great place for flowers is on your dinner plates... edible flowers of course. If you would like to have your flowergirl scattering rose petals, check with the venue first. If they allow it, ask who is responsible for the clean up duties.

1910 Blue Heron Dr., London . 519-474-7278 info@signatureevents.ca . www.signatureevents.ca

Incorporating an orange blossom into wedding bouquets and hair is an age old tradition. For centuries brides have been including this blossom for itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meaning and symbolism. The orange tree is unique to the plant world. It is the only tree that produces flowers and fruit at the same time. The orange blossom is believed to bring abundance and beauty into your life.

Making wedding dreams come true since 1985

Ferreira Pa r t y & W e d d i n g

rentals . decorating . invitations . silk & fresh flowers 502 Egerton St., London . 519-659-3331 . ferreiraparty@gmail.com 50 decorators

Ra c h e l & Co event planning & decor

by appointment . 226-667-9954 rachelandcoinfo@gmail.com . www.rachelandco.ca

it could be worse

Maybe there’s a little bridezilla in all of us, but after we unleash the demon most of us feel a tad foolish. Sometimes it helps to hear about others who’s behaviour is so outrageous it makes our bridezilla moment seem trivial. So if you are embarrassed about holding your breath until they caved, one of these should make you feel better. have you heard about the bride who... ... arranged to be carried from place to place so that her gown never touch the ground. ... asked her bridesmaid candidates to submit an application for the position. ... insisted the paper for the DJ’s play-list match her wedding colours. ... wanted her entourage to dye their hair brown so she could be the only blond. ... prearranged for the bridesmaids to tell her how gorgeous she was every 15 minutes. ... told her bridesmaids that if they missed one event they would be dismissed from the wedding party. ... told her maid-of-honour to submit her speech for approval. ... forbade any unapproved hair cuts for up to six months prior to the wedding. ... asked her MOH not to wear her engagement ring at the wedding because it was larger. ... registered for her gown. Now what you did wasn’t so bad was it?

Jessica & Blake ~ July 16, 2016 www.creativeinspiration.ca

Robyn & Tyler ~ September 16, 2016 www.creativeinspiration.ca decorators 51

A & M Sounds

DISC JOCKEY SERVICE Professional Sound, Lighting & Itinerary Expertise Image Projection Logos, Monograms Anything You Wish Music is Connect Licensed, Liability Insurance Member of the London Executive Association proudly providing quality service since

1984

519-639-2336 . amsounds20@yahoo.ca . www.amsoundsdj.com

your

attention please

A groomsman has his hands in his pockets, another is moving his foot, and a bridesmaid is toying with the ribbon on her bouquet. Is anyone noticing the bride? Nervous fidgeting or distracting posture will direct guests’ focus away from the couple and onto the ribbon twisting, foot tapping offenders. But the wedding party can’t just stand there like Buckingham Palace guards - they need to do better. They have to look happy, caring, absorbed in the proceedings, and if possible, a little teary eyed. Their posture should be relaxed and natural, but with a hint of military like attention. Let’s see the palace guards do that! As company commanders it’s up to the maid-of-honour and best man to keep the troops in line, but it has to be done with subtlety or not at all. A slight move or glance from the team leader will usually be enough to cease distracting behaviour, but if that doesn’t work they have to let it go. If a groomsman has become engrossed in the ceiling structure, elbowing him in the ribs will only draw guests’ attention, and everyone will be checking out the rafters.

Music is the last true voice of the human spirit. It can go beyond language, beyond age, and beyond color straight to the mind and heart of all people. Ben Harper

52 disc jockeys

enough

already Being a bridesmaid doesn’t come with a job description, but there isn’t a female out there who doesn’t know what it means to accept the position. She will be paying for a new outfit, attending events, helping with chores, and acting as the bride’s confidante through her highs and lows. Any friend who agrees to help you through this journey is already going above and beyond. Most future brides know this, and are careful not to stray outside the bounds of the unwritten agreement by asking too much. But every now and then there’s one who makes unreasonable demands, and tarnishes the image of rational brides everywhere. How do know when you’re crossing the line? If the look on their face doesn’t tell you, ask yourself these questions. Is it related to the wedding? They may be ready, willing and able to volunteer their time for anything that will get you down the aisle, but asking a bridesmaid to baby-sit because you want to have a manicure doesn’t qualify as wedding related. Between now and the wedding there are sure to be countless unforeseen errands that you will have to pass off to your team. Don’t deplete their good will by asking them to walk your dog so you can go to a cake tasting.

Locally Grown, Seasonal Fresh Cut Flowers

Are you asking them to change? Bridesmaids will comfort you when you are stressed, go with you to endless gown fittings, and even dance the funky chicken at your reception if you want them to, but ask them to change their appearance in any way, and the damage has been done. Future brides have been known to ask bridesmaids to cover tattoos or get matching haircuts. If you get the notion that everyone should wear their hair up, float it by them, and unless everyone is up for it, let it go. Are you hitting below the belt? Any time you resort to reminding them that your wedding depends on their cooperation, or that they are going to destroy your dream day if they don’t comply, it’s a low blow. Placed in that position there’s little else they can do but agree.

42488 Ron McNeil Line, St.Thomas . 519-668-9537 www.harrisflowerfarm.ca . janisandmarkharris@hotmail.com 54 florists

Katie & Spencer - July 23, 2016 www.creativeinspiration.ca

Fellows’

Fernlea Flowers

love in full bloom 175 Sunset Dr., St. Thomas | 519-631-3600 | www.fellowsfernleaflowers.com

just in case

Superstitious or not, if you’re getting married it’s time to brush up on some of the ways to attract good fortune and ward off bad. Most of our wedding traditions are related to blessings or curses, and while it’s not likely your future life will depend on finding a spider in your gown, following the good/bad luck guide lines is part of the fun. If you already have your eye on something blue, and there’s no way he’s seeing the gown, here are a few lesser known superstitions to round out your collection. The first gift the bride opens should be the first gift she uses, and speaking of firsts whoever makes the first financial transaction after the ceremony will dominate marital finances. If you want to hold the money reins, when your maid-of-honour returns your bouquet give her a coin to pay for her services and you’re got this one covered. Gifts of knives, clocks and mirrors spell disaster, but the hex can be removed it you pay a token amount for them. If he proposes in public your marriage will be subject to unwanted attention. The only way around this evil curse is to use a delaying tactic, but “Ask me again later” is risky.

The quality of the gown determines the quality of the marriage... think silk. Knit socks for your fiancé and he will walk away. Give him a bow tie and he will fly away. Let another try on your ring and she will steal him away. You tempt bad mojo if you write your new name before the wedding, buy your rings on Friday 13th or marry when the hands of the clock are moving downward. Once you leave for the ceremony don’t look in a mirror again until you are married or disaster will befall you. This is a tough one, and has to be handled through concept. Determine ahead of time that you are not officially ‘leaving for the ceremony’ until you start to walk down the aisle. Representing the mighty oak, an acorn in your bouquet brings strength and flexibility. If you’re looking to attract longevity and bounty only the orange blossom, with its rare ability to flower and bear fruit simultaneously, will do. When a chimney sweep cleans the chimney, he sweeps away evil spirits. That’s why it’s good luck to kiss one. Other portents of good luck are rain on your wedding day, seeing a rainbow, and in case you were wondering, finding a spider in your gown. florists 55

boldly go

where no man has gone before OK, a few men have been there. However, the traditions governing his/her responsibilities have all but disappeared, and modern day wedding planning is primarily uncharted territory. At one time leaving it up to her was expected, now it might be considered unfair, so before leaving the launch pad file a flight plan. Your starting point is a talk with your commander (Freudian slip, I meant bride) to determine what is expected of you. A clear understanding of your role in the adventure ahead clears the way for a smoother ride. Decide early whether you are in or out of the planning process. If you choose out, once the voyage is underway you can’t alter the course, complain about the way things are being handled, or try to assume command. If you have venue preferences or budget concerns, jump aboard before the ship departs.

second in command Who will you choose to be your Mr. Spock? He must be dependable, organized, calm under pressure, and possess a little Vulcan logic. When you send him on a mission he has to complete it to specifications in a timely manner. Your best bud would be a candidate, but while he’s a fun loving guy, and great to have around, he can never remember where he parked his car, brings new meaning to the word tardy, and after a few drinks his language turns raunchy. That doesn’t sound like Spock to me. He may be your closest friend, but can you trust him as keeper-ofthe-rings? Your second in command has to be chosen based on ability rather than friendship, and in addition, has to pass muster with your fiancée. Before you sign him up, confirm her approval. If she thinks his behaviour is questionable, or is terrified of what he might say in his speech, you may want to reconsider. When the position of best man has been assigned, get his advice on the rest of your party. As their leader he may want some say in who he’s going to be dealing with. He’s not going to want to work with a guy who argues every minute point, or activates a cloaking device during baseball season. If you wouldn’t take them on a ‘five year mission’ don’t enlist them in your crew.

beam me up scotty Sorry, not going to happen. Maybe it’s gender related, but stressing over soft lilac vs. pale purple is something most men don’t get, and consequently can’t grasp why their beloved is having a melt-down. It’s a matter of perspective: You’re getting married, she’s fulfilling a dream - big difference. Although you would probably prefer to vaporize, it’s time to demonstrate your leadership skills, remain calm, be supportive, listen as though it really matters, and offer advice when granted permission to speak. 56

The uniform It would have been chaos aboard the Enterprise if Kirk hadn’t worn a distinctive gold shirt. The moment he entered everyone knew he was the head honcho, ergo the tuxedo makes you easily identifiable as the most important man in the room. Reluctance to don the uniform often stems from a lack of knowledge. No problem, your formal wear experts know it all, and even better, because buying or renting a tuxedo is not something men do every day, lack of knowledge is a given. If you are hesitant because you think you don’t look good in a tux, you’ve been trying on the wrong ones. Your bride-to-be will be wearing her dream dress, and will have strong opinions on your garb. You have to make her look good, plus your groomsmen have to compliment the bridesmaids. Sometimes command calls for a joint decision.

explore strange new worlds Grooms taking advantage of the Bridal Registry is relatively new on the horizon. For decades registries been considered the bride’s domain, but men are invading this previously feminine world and adding their wishes to the list. All you have to do is scan anything you want to capture, and because capturing doesn’t mean keeping, it’s a shoot first and ask questions later situation. Too many direct hits can be remedied by paring down the list at a later date. Set phasers to stun and fire at will.

An officer and a gentlemen After thanking your family and shipmates, turn your attention to your bride and dedicate most of your speech to her. Love and adoration are the order of the day. Talk about how beautiful she looks, and how wonderful she is (speak up, she’s going to want them to hear this). Make it flattering, and keep trite marriage jibes out of it. Referring to her as your ‘new ball and chain’ may get a laugh, but it’s one small step for man in the wrong direction. Leave humour, or attempts at it, to the best man.

Live long and prosper

Love Knots Wedding Photography

Body Benefits Day Spa EST 1992

Award Winning Make-up Artistry Prom, Grad & Bridal Packages Free Consultation by Appointment

Manicures . Pedicures Advanced Skin Therapy . IPL Photorejuvenation Laser Hair Removal . Microdermabasion Body Treatments . Brazilian Waxing Botox & Cosmetic Fillers Massage . Facials . Chemical Peels 205 Oxford St. E., London . 519-645-7524 . www.bodybenefitscanada.com

the four c’s

If you rank among the 50% of women who choose their own engagement ring, you may want to brush up on some diamond lingo for that all important conversation with your jeweller. At some point you will hear the words: colour, clarity, carat, and cut.

colour

cut

When your diamond expert asks if you want a ‘fancy’ diamond, they’re not referring to how much it sparkles they are asking about your colour preference. Gray, green, blue, red. Diamonds come in many colours. These tones are due to microscopic defects, so the clearer the stone the more perfect it is, and the more it will cost.

A diamond’s glow (light performance in jeweller lingo) is determined by its cut, and when you are discussing degrees of bling the word ‘facets’ will come up. A facet is a flat surface on a geometric shape. More facets equal more light reflection. The flat cut at the bottom of a diamond is known as a culet.

clarity

There’s one more C not usually associated with rings.

Internal imperfections in a diamond are known as inclusions, externally they are called blemishes. A diamond without imperfections is rare, but don’t be concerned. These tiny flaws won’t diminish your gem’s beauty.

comfort

carat You probably know that diamonds are measured in carats, but did you know a carat refers to weight rather than size? 58 makeup/spas

Not the physical comfort you find in a beloved T-shirt, the mental comfort that comes with knowing your diamond’s mount is suited to your lifestyle. If you love the great outdoors, leave the high mounted solitaires for the indoor gals. The ring that will probably never leave your finger has to be functional as well as beautiful.

Side Street Salon Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premier Salon Specialists Hair & Aesthetic Services .

hairpieces

extensions

Photos: Creative Inspirations Photography

makeup

let us help you feel beautiful on the most important day of your life

complimentary hair consultation for you and your bridal party

201 John Street, London | 519-642-7997 | info@sidestreetsalon.ca

w w w . s i d e s t r e e t s a l o n . c a

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

y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y

Creative Inspirations Photography

haircuts foil highlights

anticurl

updos

colour

. perms

brazilian blowout

permanent thermal straightening eyebrow shaping

facial

make up application

& body waxing

make up lessons

HAIR & MAKE UP SUDIO

685 Richmond St. London . 519-432-5888 . nuhairandmakeupstudio.com

the

black hole Imagine an alternate universe where everything is always new, each new thing more enticingly spectacular than the last, and the choices are never-ending. Wouldn’t it be too overwhelming to deal with, and make you long for tranquil planet Earth? There is such a place, or at least one resembling it. We call it the internet, and it’s every bit as spectacular and tempting as our imaginary universe, however, as someone once said “It’s a nice place to visit, but I wouldn’t want to live there”. This wondrous world can elevate you to the highest levels of joy (when you find the gown), or drag you into the darkest voids (when you click on one you like better). So how do you avoid black holes? When you have found the gown, purchased the favours or completed anything else on your list - stop looking. It will be hard because it’s so enticing out there, but it’s an endless search that only leads to doubt, regret or budget blowing collisions with a too ‘mesmerizing to resist’ astroid.

mystery bride

the

When marriages had fortunes and treaties on the line, and the groom didn’t like the look of the bride, our forefathers had an ingenious solution - don’t let him see her until it’s all over. If the couple disliked each other it was bad luck for them, but for those with a vested interest it couldn’t be better, and a good luck tradition based more on finance than romance was born.

Date

Setting the all important date can be a little tricky. It has to accommodate the plans of others, the availability of vendors, and should mean something special to you. For an average wedding, and taking into account both sides of the family, a minimum of 20 people have to reach a consensus. The best approach to finalizing a date is narrowing it down to two or three options, presenting them to family and wedding party for approval, and then moving on to venues, DJ’s, photographers... It may take flexibility to get the job done, it may also mean accepting a little disappointment.

custom foot jewellery handmade here in london everyday wear special occasions weddings

519-280-3396 barefootdesignsbycrystal@hotmail.com . www.barefootdesignsbycrystal.com 62

No matter how important they are or how much you want them there if your college roommate will be having a baby, or your favourite cousin will be in Rome you have to proceed without them. The best you can do is settle on a date that doesn’t conflict with holidays, long weekends or major sporting events and hope for the best. You know they would be there if they could.

When it’s love you give...then it’s love you live. 3010 Col. Talbot Rd. London | 519-652-2455 | www.youngandco.ca

State of the art vehicles to accommodate your entire wedding party.

F faux pas

Not double checking with vendors. About two weeks before the wedding call all of your vendors to confirm dates and times. Most professionals are booked at least six months in advance and a lot can change in that time. If one of your vendors is no longer available you will have time to find a replacement. Confirm times as well as dates. What time your wedding ends is as important as when it begins. If you plan to party till dawn your professionals need to be in agreement. Not reading the fine print.

Luxury Coaches

If you’re going to sign a contract, read it first. True story: In a hotel room, the bride opted to hang her gown from the sprinkling system and... That’s right, it broke. The water destroyed her room and the room on the floor below. Somewhere in the fine print it stated that she would be held responsible for any damage, and to be fair it was her own (duhh) fault, but she found out the hard way that you can be responsible for more than you think. Sending registry info with invitations.

www.badderbus.com Serving: London-Middlesex, Elgin, Huron, Oxford, Perth, & Points East

519-433-8352 . 1-800-668-1974 . carols@badderbus.com

A wedding invitation does not necessarily mean the recipient is obligated to buy a wedding present. Everyone does of course but it’s their call. An invitation is intended to let people know you want them to come, it shouldn’t tell them where to buy the gift. Forgetting to include meals for vendors. Their day will be as long as yours and they will be working harder than anyone there. You expect them to do their best, and they expect there will be food available to sustain them. Not checking the acoustics. They didn’t come only to see you get married, they want to hear you too. Confirm that your voices carry to the back of the venue. For an outdoor wedding, the slightest breeze will blow your words away so you will have to speak up. Imagine watching a romantic movie with no voices. It looks lovely but you lose interest quickly. Speeches, too many or too lengthy. It’s wonderful to sit there and listen to people talk about how wonderful you are. Wonderful for you, however, and I hate to be the one to tell you this, boring for others. As guests we have a low tolerance for ongoing speeches and would rather get on with the party.

64 limousines/coaches

The only stretched cadillac escalade in South Western Ontario

Stretch your imagination with us!

GRANDEURlimousine

Never missed a wedding in 24 years.

519-453-7307 . 1-877-246-2844 . grandeurlimousine.com

Voted best limousine service in South Western Ontario

girl’s best friend

In comparison to the wedding ring, which appears throughout recorded history, the engagement ring is a relatively new idea - just over 500 years old. This flash of inspiration is attributed to Archduke Maximillian of Austria who, in 1477, presented his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy, with a diamond ring. Wealthy Venetians took up the trend, and diamond rings became the ultimate symbol of engagement. At least among those who had the resources. The gods of love must have wanted brides everywhere to know the joy of a diamond, and they timed it perfectly. The Industrial Revolution of the early 1800s ushered in an era when the average individual was flourishing, and gold rings spread to the general population, but diamonds, primarily from India, were rare and beyond the average working man’s financial means.

t’s a breeze

The party is rocking, everyone’s dancing, and it’s hot in here. Can someone open a window? Your reception venue may feel a little on the cool side at first, however the lower than normal temperature is intentional. Once guests arrive the room will warm naturally, and when it gets lively, comfortably warm will become stuffy unless you’re ready for the heat wave. Air-conditioning to the rescue. If it’s available. Have a ‘temperature control’ discussion with your venue coordinator, and if it turns out you can’t cool the air - move it. Your venue may keep fans on hand for this purpose, if not, and you are expecting a livelier that average reception arrange to get some there.

Then in 1867 the miracle happened. 15 year-old Erasmus Jacobs found what looked like a transparent rock on his father’s South African farm, and the rest is diamond history. In just a few years, South Africa’s diamond output exceeded India’s 2000 year diamond output. The tremendous increase in supply meant a diamond on every engaged finger.

Kathleen & Cole - August 20, 2016 www.creativeinspiration.ca

limousines 65

To this day, It Works! Their first product is still its most popular: The Ultimate Body Applicator. The site-specific body contouring treatment has been in the hands of celebrities at Hollywood events and at the doorsteps of people like you all over the world— exclusively available through It Works! Global. You wear the wrap anywhere on your body from the chin down. It tightens, tones & firms the skin in as little as 45 minutes! The It Works supplements line is a comprehensive collection of nutritional solutions for real people like you to help combat the elements and stay healthy! We also offer scarves, bags, drinkwear, jewellery, a full line of skin care products and nutritional drinks in addition to ladies and men’s apparel and more. We pride ourselves on helping as many of these people as possible attain new, debt free lives by becoming It Works brand ambassadors as they embrace our motto: Debt free is the new sexy! Christiane Macropoulos . 519-868-0141 christiane_macropoulos@hotmail.com . www.christianeswraps.itworksca.com

stress

Follow me - contact us

S T R AT E G Y

wish I could guarantee the journey between “I will” and “I do” is going to be a smooth one, but there’s every chance you will run into a few glitches along the way. Interfering parents, bridesmaid drama, misunderstood instructions. There are not many newlyweds out there who didn’t face at least one, if not all, of these obstacles. The good news is they got married in the end, but when you’re loosing it because you have to redo the setting plan for the fifth time, and your home perm makes you look like Orphan Annie, that’s not much consolation. I also wish I had words of inspiration, but the only thought that comes to mind is ‘deal with it’. Not put up with it - deal with it.

whatever physical activity is most convenient at the moment. You’ve heard the expression “Stew in it”? That’s what happens when adrenalin is left lying around.

here’s one good thing about stress, you can feel it coming, and take measures to work it off. Being stressed is not just a state of mind, it’s a physiological reaction, and that’s where we gain some control. Known as the ‘fight or flight response’, when early man was faced with a threat, like being eaten for lunch, his body was flushed with adrenalin to give him the rush he needed to, well, rush. Today we aren’t expecting a predator to leap out of the shrubbery, but pressures and deadlines give us the same adrenaline overload. Your brain is wired to pump adrenaline when you perceive a threat, it’s also wired to expect you’re going to wear it off while running for your life. When you feel tension building go for a brisk walk, play squash or do

Relax... at the spa

66 fitness/weight management

if all else fails, walk away. When you are no longer able to form a sentence without the word ‘wedding’, it’s time for a break. A relaxing bath followed by a movie (that isn’t about weddings) helps take your mind off minor stresses, or if that’s not enough, declare a wedding free weekend. Mental vacations help put things in perspective.

What a great way to pamper all of the women of your wedding party. Every woman enjoys the luxury and relaxation that comes with a day at the spa, and it makes a wonderful get together for you, your attendants, family and friends. A day at the spa would be an excellent gift of thanks for all the ladies who are working to make your wedding perfect. Treat your groom to a romantic coed spa treatment. Wedding planning can be just as stressful to the groom as it is to you, the bride. Surprise him with a spa treatment and go with him. You will both feel relaxed, refreshed and more able to face the tasks ahead of you.

THE SEARCH IS ON fOR THE

PerfectGown

by: Sarah from It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique

The time has come to start searching for your dream wedding gown! Where do you start? When do you start? Where do you buy it from? What style will be best? What colour to wear? Relax, take a breath and try to enjoy the experience. This has been a day you have been dreaming about since you were a little girl. Here are a few tips to help you have the best experience while shopping for your perfect gown. The first thing you should do is ask your already married friends if they can give you some referrals. If your friends have used vendors for their weddings and were happy with them, this might save you some leg work.

Once you have found the “Perfect Gown”, there are a few things to consider before purchasing it. The price of the gown, price of alterations, specials or promotions of the store, as well as, how you feel about the store. Using a combination of all of these aspects is the best way to help make your decision. Also ask about discounts for buying the store sample or promotions they have available. This is a great way to get a good deal, but keep in mind that a lower price isn’t always the best deal. Ask about the price of alterations, this can sometimes be an added cost that you are only aware of after the purchase is made. You may get added value by also purchasing accessories, bridesmaid gowns or other things at the same store.

After getting your referral list, start by checking out their web sites. This will give you a great first impression of the stores you plan to visit. Next make a list of the stores you would like to go to. Keep in mind that you will probably spend two to three hours at each store. You may want to split the list up between two or three separate days. Usually this process starts about a year before the wedding date.

The biggest aspect to consider when purchasing your gown is your impression of the store. This is a year long process and you deserve to have the best possible service. If the store you like doesn’t have the gown you love, ask them, they may be able to order it for you. Many brides are unaware that you can purchase your gown from any retailer who orders from the designer of your gown.

Once you have the list together, decide who you are going to bring with you, if anyone. Some brides go alone the first time to narrow it down. Word to the wise, sometimes too many opinions can overwhelm the bride. Ask the people whose opinions that you value the most and who will make your decision easier. Remember it is all about you that day and you want to feel and look your best.

Fun Part Now this is the

shopping for the gown To avoid disappointment, you may want to call ahead and make appointments at the stores you would like to visit, to ensure you have a fitting room. Be sure to try on a variety of different styles of gowns. Sometimes the best dresses are the ones you would have never tried on. You will never know unless you try them. Let the sales consultants help you. This is their area of expertise and they can help you find your hidden treasure. Keep a list of the dresses you like and where you found them. If possible, bring your camera and take pictures of the dresses you love. This will help with the decision making process and also gives you a sneak peak of how you will look on your special day. Sometimes you may need to come back another day to retry these gowns. Don’t rush yourself. Remember, this is your special day! 68

Photographer: Debra Gingrich

Now that you’ve made your decision, be prepared to leave a 50% deposit when you go to order your gown. Most gowns will take about 4 – 6 months to arrive. It is recommended that you order your gown 10 – 12 months prior to the wedding to ensure the delivery of your gown. In closing, a few words of advice, have fun, be excited, don’t stress out and enjoy your experience! This is your day and you deserve the best! p

outdoor

weddings

Romantic and beautiful, what could be more perfect than an outdoor wedding? Birds chirping in the trees, waves gently lashing on the shore, and a glorious setting that nature alone can provide. However, being fickle, Mother Nature may choose not to cooperate just because it’s your wedding day. You have to be prepared for the best, and the worst, she has to offer. Countless ceremonies have been marred by a sudden change in atmosphere. Relying on the weather to cooperate is a risky maneuver. Alternately, you have to trust the weather. The average wedding is planned about two years in advance, so booking your site has to be arranged well ahead of any forecast. Weather trends are your only guide. No matter what the seasonal expectations, having a ‘plan B’ in the form of nearby shelter is a must. Otherwise you’re gambling with your wedding’s success. No bride assumes that her gown’s alterations are correct, and assuming it will be a perfect, balmy day is about as reckless as not making sure the gown fits.

wedding crashers A wedding held outdoors is going to have wedding crashers - hundreds of them. They will be flying, crawling, and creeping in to join the celebrations, partake of the goodies, and pester the guests. The good news is, you know they’re coming and can be armed in advance. Covering food, using bug spray, and making life more difficult for flying intruders with fans to blow them off course, are all standard in the anti-bug arsenal, and you can add more of the weapons that mother nature has to offer. Lemongrass, basil and mint make wonderful decorations that guests will admire and bugs will abhor. Candles add ambiance, and citronella candles provide the glow you want, and ward off intruders at the same time. With a little imagination your guests won’t even suspect that the decorations are working double duty.

the bright side of rain

The top five ‘muggiest’ cities in Canada are here in Southwestern Ontario, so a wedding planned for mid-summer stands a good chance of landing on a hot, humid day. After a few minutes in the sweltering sun, everyone will become desperately uncomfortable. In the name of heatstroke, keep it short and sweet.

Rain on your wedding day? Lucky you!!! Representing renewal, rain is considered a wedding day blessing from the gods, and better still your wedding photos will be awesome. Nothing is more stunning than a wedding gown, rain and an umbrella unless it’s all of the above with dark clouds in the background. A rainy day wedding also provides the opportunity to create a great memento. All you need is a light coloured umbrella, some magic markers so guests can sign it, and you’ve got a unique treasure to back up your rainy day tales. Rain? Bring it on, and have fun with it. If you’re planning a winter wedding pray for snow.

middle ground

dual purpose

Outdoor weddings are generational. The younger crowd will love it, the older crowd probably won’t share their enthusiasm. Weigh the balance of how many nature loving guests you will invite compared to those who prefer the great indoors. If your indoor list outweighs your outdoor, but you don’t want to give up your ‘married on a beach’ dream, meet them half way. Have the alfresco ceremony of your fantasies, and hold the reception in sheltered, climate controlled conditions.

If the weather network is predicting a scorcher use it to your, and your guests, advantage. As they arrive present them with favour bags containing sunglasses, moist towelettes, a fan, and a cooling face mister to help keep them comfortable. When the sun is sizzling the gift of shade in the from of a parasol will be a favour they’ll never forget.

who else will be there? Public parks and beaches make for popular wedding venues, but the operative word is public. You have no control over what will be going on nearby. Visit potential sites on the same day and time as your wedding. A site that looks perfect at noon may be a mosquito haven at dusk. Seek out secluded areas, away from pathways, parking lots, and playgrounds. Do your homework before setting the date and location by checking your community calendar for celebrations taking place on the same day. You don’t want your “I do” to be drowned out by a passing parade - complete with bagpipes. 70

i No electricity? In lieu of a photo booth, hang an empty picture frame from a tree for guests to pose behind.

i Pass on a long train. Sand and grass will devastate it before the day is over.

i Write your seating charts on chalk boards and suspend them from branches.

i Unless you love bees, skip the perfume. i Keep bugs out of drinks with cupcake wrappers. Punch a straw-sized hole in the bottom, turn it upside down, and voilà a drink cover.

starting

right

Her son is being married but she has little say in the plans, has to wait for the bride’s mother to decide on a dress, and no one remembered to tell her about the new celebrant. Are her feelings hurt? Of course they are. Most mothers-ofthe-groom resign themselves to the back seat, and accept their lot, however, it’s a negative way to start a life-long relationship and it can happen by default. Brides are usually in control of the planning and are naturally closer to their side of the family which automatically lessens his Mom’s importance. Even if you have your wedding so well planned you don’t need anyone’s input there are still ways to include her. Ask her advice on seating her side of the family. She can give you the low-down on feuding cousins and food allergies. Invite her to join you on gown searches or spa visits, and take the time to keep her updated. If you can’t make her feel necessary, make her feel wanted.

flush toilets & sinks washroom trailers . wheelchair access 519-294-6954 or 519-518-5346 www.johnsonsanitation.on.ca

800-386-4538 rental services 71

Victorian Era inn and bistro built in 1889 newly renovated ~ accommodating up to 60 guests elegantly designed and decorated rooms locally sourced, organic upscale cuisine off site catering for large and small groups restaurant accommodates 100 888-776-8515

www.clocktower-inn.com

that doesn’t

71 Frank St., Strathroy Inn: 519-245-5656 info@clocktower-inn.com Bistro 519-205-1500 clocktowerinnbistro@gmail.com

look good

s Lingerie straps, meant for hanging the gown, get tucked in on

the assumption they will be hidden for the duration, but these tricky little ribbons have a way of wriggling out, dangling down the back of the dress, and making it look like your underwear is showing. They simply can’t be trusted to stay in place without something to restrain them. One tiny stitch or a small safety pin will lock them down.

s One of the best wedding gown moments is when you raise the skirt to keep the hem out of harms way. Such a romantic, princess-like gesture. But how you bend to lift the gown can make or break the look. With a straight back, bend from the knees to grasp the material. Few things look less attractive than a bride presenting her backside while bending from the waist.

Executive Chef and Owner Mark Graham

s A bride with a beer bottle in her hand. What’s wrong with this picture? It’s not the beer, it’s the bottle. The same applies to canned soft drinks. No princess would be seen drinking from bottles or cans. A glass will go a long way in keeping the illusion alive.

s Let your emotions show? Not entirely. Wedding day emotions can swing from joyous to distraught and back again. Guests came to see a happy bride, they don’t want to see a bride tearing a strip out of a tardy bridesmaid. Restrict negative emotions to a place where you can play out your tantrum in private.

s Some things are distracting, some are impolite and some are downright unsightly, but gum can go it all. Any habitual chewers in your party have to swear off for the day.

s When you’re wearing a classy gown there’s no place for bawdy language. If you wouldn’t say it in front the flowergirl, don’t say it at all. Obscenities make the bride look bad and diminish the gown’s status at the same time. It looks like a Mori Lee, but it sounds like a back-ally, trunkof-a-car knock off.

72 restaurants

Brianne & Ambrose - October 15, 2016 www.creativeinspiration.ca

A London Landmark Of Casual Fine Dining for 23 Years

The Perfect Setting for Weddings Rehearsal Lunches and Dinners Engagements and Bridal Showers consistently outstanding italian & international cuisine local and seasonal ingredients

Come HOME to La Casa

Open Monday to Saturday - Lunch & Dinner Across from Budweiser Gardens 117 King Street, London 519-434-2272 [CASA] www.lacasaristorante.com

An Experience to Savour

black trumpet

r e s t a u r a n t The Perfect Setting for Weddings Rehearsal Lunches and Dinners Engagements and Bridal Showers • World Inspired Cuisine Enhanced by Local and Seasonal Ingredients • Beautiful, Secluded and Tranquil Courtyard Patio Oasis • In the Heart of Richmond Row, just north of the Grand Theatre Private Dining Rooms Available

Open Monday to Saturday for Lunch and Dinner 523 Richmond Street, London Reservations: 519-850-1500 info@blacktrumpet.ca www.blacktrumpet.ca restaurants 73

Over 50 years in business! Derek Saker London\ 519-652-2633 C: 519-859-7669 derek@sakerrealty.com www.sakerrealty.com

Serving London, West Middlesex and Elgin counties, Saker Realty is the oldest and only main branch office in rural west Middlesex! They are #1 in Delaware area sales and, a leading force in West Middlesex and London area sales. They are three generations strong with a strong family commitment. The Saker Realty team is actively sponsoring, participating and supporting the local communities that they do business in. Their reputation as an authority of West Middlesex and London Real Estate has resulted in them being called upon by other London agents and appraisers, to provide advice on real estate in the Area.

Coolest

bride ever

Photographer: Debra Gingrich

Agreeing to be a bridesmaid means dedicating time, taking on extra work, and making a substantial financial investment. So why do they do it? Partly because they love you, and partly because it promises to be loads of fun. Fulfilling the promise of fun is the responsibility of the bride, and it only takes a little thoughtfulness to give them what they signed up for.

Take the democratic route. Identical gowns? Hair up or down? Spiked heals all around? Get a consensus on what they want, and accommodate their preferences as much as possible. One bridesmaid may be embarrassed by her pear-shaped hips, another is selfconscious of her skinny arms. When a bridesmaid says “I don’t like it“, she is probably thinking “Please don’t make me wear a slinky gown that shows everything I have been hiding all my life”. There are lots of ways to give them some freedom, please everyone, and still make them stand out as bridesmaids. Show you care. Although your wedding will dominate conversations for the next year or so, a caring bride understands that her bridesmaids have lives too. Not all your get-togethers have to be focused on the wedding. You were their friend, and interested in their lives before you became engaged, show them that nothing has changed. Demonstrate appreciation. Everyone wants to be recognized for their efforts. Include your wedding party on your wedding website, add their names to the program, take them out to lunch, or treat them to a manicure. Don’t overload them with chores. Assisting the bride with all things wedding related comes with the job description, but not all tasks have to be loaded onto their shoulders. There’s no reason not to call on family and friends to take on some of the work. Bridesmaids shouldn’t have to do it all. Loosen up. On the day of the wedding, excitement and anticipation can easily translate into bad humour and tears. This is the day everyone has been waiting for and the bridesmaids want to let the fun begin. Their day depends on you, and you owe them one.

2016 London/st. thomas Cover contest Winnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; trip Lisa & Justin

Justin and I were married on August 6th, 2016. Three days after we were married we would be heading on our honeymoon to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic to enjoy our grand prize; an all-inclusive honeymoon at Barcelo Bavaro Palace, all thanks to Transat, Travel Agents in Action and Bridal Confidential. When we arrived at the resort they welcomed us with a cocktail. The following day we signed up for some excursions. We wanted our honeymoon to be a mixture of relaxation and adventure; and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exactly what we did. We enjoyed during our week a couple days of relaxing by the pools one in which included a swim up bar, on the beach soaking up the sun and relaxing on the water on a two person catamaran. We then spent a couple days doing some very fun outings. Our first excursion was dune buggies, followed by zip lining the day after and then a couple days before we came home we did a tour that included snorkeling, scuba, and driving speed boats. At night we enjoyed fine dining, including a Japanese restaurant in which they cooked the food right in front of you as well as a Seafood restaurant that gave you the biggest lobster I had ever seen. We played pool, enjoyed the disco, as well as tested our luck at the casino. The resort also had many theatre performances; one was similar to a circus with acrobats and people swinging from the rooftop. We met some great people and the staff were all very helpful and friendly. The whole week was incredible and will never be forgotten. Thank you again! Susan . www.foreverpreciousmemories.com . seliuk@TAIA.ca

travel 75

relax, and leave the details to us!

full, partial, day-of wedding coordination invitation design decor . rentals

Wedding Coordination:

an investment in your sanity.

By Amy McNall ~ Unmistakably You Boutique Wedding Coordination

Venue, food, officiant, photographer . . . these are all services you'll book for your wedding day. Many couples, however, don't add 'hire a wedding planner' to their list of must-have vendors. Hiring a planner is an investment, but having a pro to help you manage the hundreds of details is truly an investment in your sanity. A professional, experienced and qualified planner is truly worth his or her weight in gold - they'll take the pressure off of you, your family, and your wedding party, and allow you to be truly present on your wedding day. You'll be able to relax, enjoy and celebrate with your friends and family, rather than being constantly attached to your phone, communicating with vendors and putting out fires. If you're able to work with a planner for the duration of your wedding planning process, you'll find that the time savings in research alone are worth the investment. You won't have to spend hours weighing the pros and cons of six different photographers, who all package their services differently - your planner will be able to help you decide which is the best fit for you, taking into account your personality, your style, and your budget. Experienced planners have an ear to the ground and they know the industry, so they can steer you away from vendors who are less than scrupulous, or who won't be able to provide exactly the services you require. A good planner will also help you keep your budget in check, and will pass on incentives from his or her contacts in the industry to help reduce your costs where possible. Finally, booking a full coordination package will ensure that you don't miss any of the 78 wedding planner

London . 519-852-7479 amy@unmistakablyyou.com www.unmistakablyyou.com

hundreds of details involved in planning a wedding. Your planner will keep you on time and on task, and will help you book vendors, make payments, and take care of details in a timely fashion. If full wedding coordination just isn't in your budget, or if you're truly passionate about taking care of all the details yourself, hiring a Day-Of Coordinator is a way to ensure your peace of mind on your wedding day. A good coordinator is proactive, and will be able to make suggestions to prevent issues from arising in the weeks leading up to your wedding day. He or she will create a detailed itinerary, making sure that no speech is overlooked, and no photograph is missed. Having a professional coordinator (not a friend!) onsite on the day of your wedding to manage your vendors and to solve the inevitable problems that will arise, often without your knowledge, allows you to enjoy your day without worrying about the details you worked so hard to plan. An experienced coordinator has ten different officiants on speed dial in case yours comes down with food poisoning. He or she knows five different florists who can fix a problem with your bouquet at a moment's notice, has a backup plan for how to fix a dropped cake, and can get another DJ to your wedding at a moment's notice if yours doesn't show up. All of this happens behind the scenes, while you enjoy your day while hanging out with your wedding party. My clients often say, after the fact, that hiring a wedding planner was the best investment they made in their wedding. Knowing someone is there to manage the details for you takes the stress off of your plate and allows you to truly relax and enjoy what is probably the biggest party you'll ever throw. Cheers! p

Huron-Inc.

Forest Golf Club & Inn beautiful ~ special ~ memorable weddings

Decor: Par-Tee Rentals

Hall accommodates 200 . Restaurant and Pub . 70 Guest Rooms . Customized Menu Ideal Photo Locations ~ 9 & 18 Hole Golf Course ~ Ample Parking

102 Main St., S. Forest . 519-786-2397 . tclaydon.forest@golfnorth.ca . www.golfforest.ca

sarnia/chatham 2017 Cover bride contest Winners

Sarah & Jason My photo shoot day

by Sarah O’Neill

Jason and I got engaged in December of 2015. I was so ecstatic and happy, I couldn't wait to plan our dream wedding. I had joined the Cover Bride Contest in February of 2016 and it was ending in April. I had no chance at winning - then I found out I could stay in the contest for the 2016-2017 contest. AND WE DID! I couldn't be happier this has been an amazing, fun and exciting experience. Jason and I started our photoshoot day bright and early, when Gary at Penguin Limousine pulled up at 8 am! He was such a nice man and the limo was awesome! The roof sparkled in multiple colours and the cooler was full of refreshments. This was Jason's first time in a limo, he was so excited to finally travel in one. Our first stop was The Rooted Bohemian in Petrolia. There we met Lindsay, the hair stylist, and Corey from Frameworks Media, who would be capturing our day on video! We entered the salon, it was so unique and cool. Lindsay offered us coffee (best coffee I ever had) then we got started! While Lindsay was making my hair look fabulous, Corey was busy asking Jason and I about how we met and capturing every moment. My hair turned out beautiful, it was a very unique/vintage up-do and I couldn't of loved it more. When our time was done at the Rooted Bohemian, we headed to LaPiers Flowers in Corunna - where I received a beautiful bouquet for our photoshoot later that day. We then made our way to Grind Cafe. That food was delicious. Melissa greeted us so enthusiastically which a huge basket of food! It was all so yummy! Jason and I really hit it off with Melissa, she is so personable and fun to talk to! It was really nice getting to meet her and enjoy her delicious lunch basket! Our next stop was The Glass and Pillar Spa! All the staff greeted us with big smiles, it was a very nice atmosphere. I sat down and Candace worked her magic. I was IN-LOVE with my makeup, I didn't not want to take it off ever. Again, my look became even more vintage, with dark eyes and adding some colour to my lips -

my makeup was absolutely beautiful! While I was being pampered, Corey was getting some nice videos and dirt on Jason and I. It was a great time! We then headed over to the Holiday Inn. When we were waiting to meet Cathy, there was a field trip there, so all the kids were looking at Jason and I, as if we were movie stars - it was pretty cool. Cathy came out and handed us a gift certificate for an overnight stay in a jacuzzi - SWEET. We can't wait to use it! We hopped into the limo again, and Gary drove us to our next destination - Limbo Lounge. We reviewed a very generous gift certificate for a dinner date. Next stop, Adora Spa. We arrived at Adora and I had my nails manicured with hand treatments - it was lovely. Then we were off to Reno’s Fine Clothing for Men who is a supplier for Collins Formal Wear Tuxedos . Bruce was a hoot. Jason, Corey, Gary and Bruce were all joking around and having a great time. It was pretty hilarious to witness. Jason stepped into the change room and put on his suit. When he walked out the change room... wow. He looked so handsome. The suit was tan, and looked amazing on him. Our final stop before the shoot was Aliyah Bridal Fashions. I know the ladies at Aliyah very well, and have had a great experience with them throughout our wedding planning process. Ella is such a sweet lady, she had a dress specially ordered in for me to wear for the shoot. It was stunning and I adored it. Our final stop on our fun day of being spoiled was with Jeff from Kaoss Studios. We were so excited yet nervous to do a photoshoot! It rained the whole day, but Jeff was amazing - we met him at his apartment, where he took some awesome shots inside! The rain let up, so we got to go outside and took some unique shots downtown Sarnia. Jeff was so professional and the photos turned out stunning! We would like to thank Transat, Travel Agents in Action and Bridal Confidential for sponsoring our trip to Paradisus Varadero 5* in Varadero, Cuba. We are looking forward to this fantastic vacation, and thank you to everyone for the experience of a lifetime!

Thank You to our Sponsors All Inclusive Trip for Two: Transat, Travel Agents in Action & Bridal Confidential Photography: Kaoss Studios Gown: Aliya Bridal Fashions Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Hair: The Rooted Bohemian Salon & Day Spa Makeup: The Glass & Pillar Spa Manicure: Adora Spa

Videography: Frameworks Media Bouquet: LaPier’s Flowers & Gifts Limo: Penguin Limousine Gift Basket: Grind Cafe & Catering Dinner for Two: Limbo Lunch Lounge Overnight Stay: Holiday Inn, Pt. Edward See photos and video at bridalconfidential.com under ‘Gallery’.

Susan . www.foreverpreciousmemories.com . seliuk@TAIA.ca

cover bride contest winners...

2nd Place Winners Chantelle & Jonathan

3rd Place Winners Emily & Brock

4th Place Winners Stacy & TJ

5th Place Winners Alysha & Kurtis

6th Place Winners Carly & Jon

7th Place Winners Casie & Josh

8th Place Winners Amy & Curt

9th Place Winners Maria & Kevin

1st Place Winners Sarah & Jason

...Sarnia/Chatham 2017

10th Place Winners Jocelynne & Dalton

13th Place Winners Katherine & Thomas

11th Place Winners Erika & Kevin

12th Place Winners Katie & Rob

14th Place Winners Carolyn & Ryan

15th Place Winners Chantel & Wesly

winners & Prizes ~ Thank You to our Sponsors

16th Place Winners Jessica & Tom

1st All Inclusive Trip for Two ~ Transat & Travel Agents in Action 2nd Dinner For Two ~ Big Fish Steak & Lounge. 3rd 2 Overnight Stays for Two with romantic gift package ~ Bogey’s Inn Sombra. 4th Dinner for Two ~ Olives Casual Cuisine. 5th 2 Overnight Stays for Two ~ Holiday Inn Express & Suites (Chatham-Kent). 6th Lunch for Four ~ Grind Cafe & Catering Co. 7th One Year Sock Subscription ~ Collins Formal Wear. 8th Gift Basked of Hair and Body Products ~ Seacret Minerals From The Dead Sea. 9th $200 Gift Certificate for Photo Session ~ Cheyann Howard Photography. 10th Wedding Cake Serving Set ~ Isn’t Life Sweet. 11th Dried Flower & Fragrant Herb Wreath ~ Forest Glen Herb Farm. 12th $50 Gift Certificate ~ Sideways Classical Grill. 13th $200 Gift Certificate ~ Central Sanitation. 14th Two Personalized Hangers ~ Touch of Heart. 15th Consultation for Merging, Buying or Redecorating Your Home ~ Dimples Decor. 16th Original Facinators ~ Carolyn’s Creations. 85

In n Hotel

www.versatileinn.com 1-844-226-9400

the ideal place for you and your guests

the

Good, the bad,and the Ugly

(thanks to Clint Eastwood for the title)

Virtually everyone has a cell phone or a camera at the ready, and randomly clicking away has become a national pastime, but even with technology all around us, and consuming our lives, there are limitations. Etiquette still dictates when and where it’s appropriate to capture images, and the last line of defence is the solemn occasion. Whether or not to allow guests to take pictures at random is your choice. You can let everyone in attendance shoot their brains out, or you can request a tech-free wedding and they will understand. It depends on the results you want. If you have hired a professional photographer because you want a flawless record of your day, you’re going to have to choose. the good:

newly renovated

jacuzzi . 32-inch flat screen tv . microwaves . refrigerators

dining at nick’s restaurant 1716 London Line, Sarnia 519-541-9400 1-844-226-9400 versatileinnhotel@gmail.com . www.versatileinn.com

don’t forget to... Assign someone to deal with the aftermath. Gifts have to be taken home, tuxedos have to be returned, and someone has to check the reception room for forgotten items. Save one of everything related to the wedding; invitation, cocktail napkin, program, petals from the bouquet. The slightest thing can make wonderful memorabilia.

The argument for having a full fledged photo frenzy? Everyone enjoys taking photos, your guests will have a wonderful time, there will be hundreds, if not thousands, of photos and you can spend countless hours reliving your day with all of your snap-happy friends. There’s even a good chance they will capture moments that would have otherwise been missed. All in all, these are good reasons to cross the solemn occasion vs technology boundary. the bad: Once given permission to shoot at will, you lose all control, and the serious mood of the ceremony can be lost in whirring, clicking and jostling for a better shot. A photographer’s job is to get great photos that capture the day, and make you look like a Angelina Jolie at the same time. Any photographer will tell you that proper lighting is essential in achieving this goal. With your treasured wedding photos on the line, do you really want to make your professional’s job more difficult by having them compete with flashes bombarding from all, and often unflattering, directions?

Complimentary Continental Breakfast Wedding Group Rates Available Unique Waterfront Location

“Let your guests be our guests”.

the ugly: With all those photos being taken by countless individuals, you have no way to regulate what’s out there. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and what you think is the worst photo ever taken a friend might think worthy of posting. This is one time when safety in numbers doesn’t apply. If ‘high tech all the way’ is your motto, be prepared to relinquish your grip on who sees what. the solution:

505 Harbour Rd., Sarnia | 519-337-5434 1-800-787-5010 | www.sarniaharbourfront.com 86 accommodations

Set aside a time for shutterbugs to click to their heart’s content. When you’re prepared to face the camera, it’s less likely that bad images will result. Request (strongly) that no one post anything on the internet without your approval and especially not before the day is complete.

indoor salt water pool fitness room games room business centre hallmark hot breakfast bar

Chantel & Brad ~ July 30, 2016 www.wedding.studiokaoss.ca

the

Proof

is on the dance floor

Going on the assumption that dancing guests are happy guests, every couple likes to see their dance floor packed, but there’s no way to guarantee it. At some weddings the floor is jammed, at others waiters are using it as a shortcut, and while you can’t ensure that your dance floor will be overflowing into the aisles, you can help it along. Trust your DJ. There’s a lot more to being a music professional than having an extensive library. Part of their job is to read the audience and select the next tune accordingly. Give them your list of song requests, but avoid overload. To keep the room rocking your DJ needs a degree of freedom. Don’t insist they play ‘The Way You Look Tonight’ when it’s clearly time for ‘La Bamba’. Sometimes a dance floor is empty because it’s empty. Being the first couple on the floor is a daunting prospect. If no one takes their lead, they’re stuck up there until the song ends, so rather than chance it they wait for some other brave duo to risk an all eyes on them, solo performance. In a room full of reluctance, dimming the lights will help them feel less conspicuous, and if that doesn’t work it’s time for get-the-ball-rolling action from your entourage.

575 Richmond Street, Chatham 519-351-1100 . 877-660-8550 . jbonner@hiexchatham.com holidayinnexpress.com/chathamsouth

Test Drive

Glamorous displays and showroom spotlights wouldn’t entice you to buy a car without taking it for a test drive. You want to know how it handles on the road. Obviously you can’t test drive a wedding dress but you can walk, sit, bend and stretch. It’s the gown version of looking under the hood for hidden flaws like boning that pinches, or strapless designs that let you down, so to speak. Lively dancing in your plans? Make sure your passengers won’t fly out of that convertible top. Why are some brides willing to choose a gown based entirely on its eye catching design? It’s hard to say. Why do some men kick the tires? It doesn’t tell them anything they really need to know.

When the room is alive with gyrating guests, interrupting them for bride and groom moments could dispel their rockon mood. Once everyone has returned to their seats to witness the cake cutting, or listen to yet another toast, the dance floor can lose it’s appeal. If the music moves them keep them moving. Don’t take it as a disappointment. Some people just don’t care for dancing and when your guest list leans toward the sit-down crowd there’s not much you can do. All that matters is that they’re enjoying the wedding even if the only time they leave their seat is to go to the bar. Bianca & Dave ~ September 24, 2016 Daniel McQuillan Photography accommodations 87

Photo by: Kristin Shiplo

June bride. The ancient Roman deity Juno was not just the queen of the gods, she was the goddess of love. In honour of her power and high standing the Romans named the month of June after her, and believed that if they honoured her with a June wedding she would bless the couple with love and happiness. 2000 years later June is still the most popular month for weddings. Tried and true? Maybe there’s something to it. Third finger left hand. Before mankind understood how the circulatory system really works, they believed that a vein ran directly from the ring finger to the heart. We know better now, but it’s a romantic notion.

4475 London Line, Reeces Corner Plaza, Wyoming 519-845-0620 www.isntlifesweet.com

why do we do that? Have you ever wondered why June is so popular for weddings, why is there a best man, or why does the groom carry the bride over the threshold? Some of our wedding customs had practical origins, and some were born of superstition. Today we’re not concerned that someone will steal away the bride, or that evil spirits are lurking, but the customs that evolved from this ancient mind-set have endured through generations and remained intact. Here’s a primer on some of our most beloved traditions.

Home

is where the heart is

exit realty twin bridges Brokerage - Independently Owned & Operated

Courtney Levert B.A., A.B.R Sales Representative 1323 Michigan Ave., Sarnia Cell: 519-381-9897 Office: 519-336-EXIT courtney2@ebtech.net 88

Bride on the left. Just in case a rival wants to whisk the bride away, she stands on the groom’s left so her gallant husband-to-be will have his sword hand free to defend her. The first bride to face this dilemma must have been remarkably alluring or exceedingly rich, but whatever the case it’s not likely to happen today, so some couples are switching it up. best man. The prospect of facing opposition to the marriage, meant clever grooms had an extra man at their side. The ‘best man’ refers to the most skilled swordsman in the shire. Bridesmaids, flowers, and wedding bells come under the heading of ‘how to ward off evil spirits’. Bridesmaids dressing alike confused them, flowers repelled them, wedding bells scared them off, and just in case a few got past all the hurdles, the groom carried his new bride over the threshold to make sure the coast was clear. What attracted all these fiends in the first place? Too much happiness. The lure of blissful love attracted ghouls and imps from across the land. That belief had to be a downer for the newlyweds. Do you suppose they had to keep their happiness in check for fear of attracting terrifying entities? Fortunately we have left our dread of supernatural reprisal in the past, and today our happiness is pretty much in their face.

let me show you how much I love you

say it with cake

Homemade lunches served in our cafe ~ Catering services available unique cakes, cupcakes and pastries for all occasions ~ sugar artistry

138 Cromwell Street Sarnia . 519-491-8051 . cakelady_44@hotmail.com . Facebook

Your name in lights

three dressing rooms with mirrors and lighting

on our marquee

. receptions . fully . lighting . sound . set-up . tear ceremonies liscensed decorating down

168 Christina St., N. Sarnia 519-332-6591 ext 3 baustin@imperialtheatre.net . www.imperialtheatre.net 90 banquet halls

beautiful

impeccable

exceptional

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 affordable & elegant wedding packages to suit your style & budget

250 National Road, Chatham

519-355-0806

www.clublentinas.ca

unique offering the freedom to choose your professionals and create your dream wedding.

stunning rolling green lawns running down to the dazzlingly blue waters of the St. Clair River

exclusive settings that provide beautiful outdoor ceremony and photo opportunities

convenient accommodations, ceremony, banquet facility, and photo site... all in one.

2849 St. Clair Parkway, Sombra Banquet Facility: 519-867-3333 Inn: 519-867-3999 www.b oge ysinn.com

Denise Blommestyn Photography

DanteC lub

banquet & conference centre

weddings . bridal showers . ceremonies receptions . bridal room . customized menus you two have fun, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take care of the rest 1330 London Rd., Sarnia . 519-542-9311 . gm@danteclubsarnia.ca . danteclubsarnia.ca

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 215 Guest Rooms including Jacuzzi Suites 2 Ballrooms Accommodating up to 440 Guests New Menu ~ Executive Chef on Site All Inclusive Bar Packages Cathy Hayward, Catering Manager 1498 Venetian Blvd., Point Edward 519-336-7051 Reservations: 1-888-212-2252 Cathy.Hayward@whg.com . www.hisarnia.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

its got a ring to it When and where did the wedding band originate? No one can say for certain, but wedding bands are recognized as one of the earliest wedding traditions. They were once made of materials such as braided hemp, horse or human hair, and even reeds served the purpose. During the Renaissance the gold ‘poesy’ ring made its appearance. Inscribed with a poem, they were all the rage at weddings, but such extravagances were reserved for the very wealthy. Gold and silver bands weren’t available to the masses until the 1800s when automation and prosperity made precious metals affordable to all, and the standard wedding band found its place in history. NOTE: In the ‘flower power’ generation of 1960s and 70s braided, home-made wedding bands enjoyed a comeback, but like the material they were made of, the phase didn’t last.

The perfect setting for your event

Lambton Kent Memorial Agricultural Centre complimentary hall rental when we operate the bar

1212 North St., Dresden | www.chatham-kent.ca | Bookings: Dresden Municipal Centre | 519.683.2572 98 banquet halls

Links of Kent Golf club

Creating aLasting Memory custom catering tailored to your needs river deck room for up to 80 guests ~ Event Center for up to 300 guests

120 Indian Creek Rd. W. Chatham | 519-351-3672 ext 3 | events@linksofkent.com | www.linksofkent.com

Willow Ridge

golf & country club

439 Chatham Street S., Blenheim . Banquet 519-676-7075 . Pub & Grill 519-676-8772 abrown@willowridgegolf.ca . www.willowridgegolf.ca

Portuguese Canadian Social Club of Chatham Come experience our hospitality !

capacity for 300 seated guests ~ full unique menu ~ complete bar service ~ dance floor 346 Grand Ave., E Chatham . 519-436-0040 . rentals@ckportugueseclub.ca . www.ckportugueseclub.ca

st. clair corporate centre

Your Venue in the Sky seating for up to 120 guests ceremonies . cocktail & dinner receptions rehearsal dinners . showers & brunches St. Clair Corporate Centre, 265 Front St. North, Sarnia Venue Exclusive to Grind Cafe & Catering Co. Contact: Melissa Cameron 519-339-8986 grindcafecatering@gmail.com

plated & buffet late-night bars receptions . rehearsals stag & does . showers

specializing in weddings up to 200 guests

265 Front Street North, Sarnia Melissa Cameron . 519-339-8986 www.grindcafecatering.com

Enchantment Bridal & Formal Gowns

10 King Street West, Chatham . 519-360-1100 enchantmentbridal@hotmail.com . www.enchantmentbridal.com

Every Girl...

deserves a Fascinator!

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! 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. 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.

top names in bridal and formal gowns for your wedding day or special occasion

got something to say?

Wedding speeches are made by the bride’s father, the best man and the groom - right? Not any more. Most of our wedding traditions have come down to us through the generations, and while we don’t know where this one began I suspect it’s a relic from a time when wives either didn’t have, or weren’t permitted to have, an opinion. Recognizing that their marriage is a partnership, and they’re not Penn and Teller, up to 70% of brides today are discounting this medieval mind-set, raising their glasses, and adding their voice to his. In the past few decades we have seen the popularity of trends such as cake smashing and gown trashing rise and fall (didn’t like them anyway), but hopefully this trend will become tradition.

106

too much - too often Posting info about your wedding is a wonderful way to share the excitement of your big day, but if you want to maintain guest anticipation you have to know when to put the brakes on. Your online info should be like the preview of an upcoming film that shows only the highlights, doesn’t give away the plot, and entices you to see the whole movie.

Aliya Bridal Fashions

For the most beautiful day of your life.

Guests enjoy the element of surprise. Seeing the gown for the first time, admiring the cake, and being dazzled by the decor are all things they look forward to, but when they’ve seen it all online “Oh wow” becomes “Oh yeah”. Keep it exciting by following the lead of movie moguls and just give them a preview. Guests don’t want you to give it all away. They also don’t want to hear about it every day. The ease of high volume communication can turn ‘reach out and touch someone’ into ‘reach out and disturb someone’. In the early stages let them know where they can find your online information, and unless it affects them directly leave it up to them to visit for updates.

199 Christina St., N. Sarnia . 519-491-6933 aliyabridalfashions@hotmail.com . www.aliyabridalfashions.com

brooch bouquets & wristlets lace & vintage hair accessories

Vintage Grace

Handmade Accessories for all Occasions

By Appointment . 519-384-4698 . Corunna . jenny2lb@hotmail.com . vintagegraceaccessories.ca 107

muss no fuss no

w h at c atering was truly m eant to be !

. receptions . rehearsal dinners . showers outdoor patio overlooking the thames river . up to 1000 guests weddings

425 Riverview Dr., Chatham | 519-354-5270 | www.casabellarestaurant.ca

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 200 108 caterers

Showering the newlyweds with grains is a centuries old tradition meant to bless the couple with a good harvest and a prosperous future. Before the arrival of automation in the early 1800s paper confetti was fashionable, but labour intensive, so the expense confined it to those had the financial means, or nothing better to do. With machines handling the work confetti became readily available, and its popularity reigned for generations. However, in an era where throwing confetti is littering, and the mere mention of it makes venue owners cringe, we have found something better. Bubbles. Unlike rice or particles of paper, you won’t have to remove them from your hair, and you won’t be finding them in your closet weeks later. They linger in the air, dance with colour, impart a fairytale effect, and then, best of all, disappear.

Your wedding day goes by in a blink of an eye. Why not make it the prettiest blink youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever seen.

from bridal bouquets and flowers to full room transformations, let us create something thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s truly unique to you

RL DESIGNS INC. EVENT DESIGN | DECOR | FLORAL

specializing in full service custom one of a kind designs, that are as innovative as they are intimate London: 2237 Wharncliffe Rd S. Sarnia: 1121 Evett St., Unit 3 519 491 2509 | ryanlongo@signatureeventsbyrl.com | www.signatureeventsbyrl.com

Your One Stop Shop for Floral, Linen and Full Service Decorating

Kendra & Mike ~ June 25, 2016 www.cheyannhowardphotography.com

physical

diamond

full service ceremony

& hall decorating

Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Customer Service Award Winner

360 Lyndoch St., Corunna 519-862-1414 www.lapiersflowers.com

110 decorators

Imagine looking down one day and seeing that your precious diamond is gone. Oh the horrors!!! People, pets and cars all have check-ups, and if you want to avoid lost-diamond-heart-failure so should your ring. Unless you live like the Manchurian emperors, whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long fingernails prevented them from any form of labour (including feeding themselves), your ring will be on the front lines of daily wear and tear. Collisions with hard objects are virtually unavoidable. Make an annual trip to your jeweller to ensure snug fittings and secure stones.

Your Design, DĂŠcor and Rental Destination

www.par-tee.com

519-882-0466 partee@rivernet.net

For Weddings & Events

Victoria’s decor , floral

gifts inc .

specializing in wedding planning and wedding decor

Sarnia’s exclusive retailer for Vintage Grace Bridal Accessories 575 Murphy Road, #3, Sarnia Showroom, Retail, Floral, Rentals 519-384-4218 | 519-491-0121 | victoriasdecor@sympatico.ca | www.victoriasdecor.com

Bounds of protocol

Did you know?

What do linens, blenders, and flatware have in common? They’re all items you would expect to find on a wedding couple’s wish list. At least they used to be. Presenting the newlyweds with a gift stems from a time when the pair were starting from scratch and in need of household basics, so gifts were of a practical nature. But because most modern couples are fully equipped with every domestic item you can think of, the wish list has transitioned from what they need to what they want. It’s not unusual to find camping gear, ski equipment or even shrubbery on the manifest. But how far outside the framework of necessity can you stray before appearing brazen?

A sapphire in a wedding ring brings future happiness, and despite being one of the most popular choices in wedding jewellery, pearls are said to represent tears.

The boundary is clearly marked with the word ‘couple’. Gifts on your wish list must reflect you as a pair. Including personal items such as clothing or beauty products crosses the line, as does forgetting the ‘something for everyone’ principle. Undoubtedly you will be inviting some old-school types, who’s firm belief that gifts are meant to feather-the-nest renders them incapable of attending without a toaster in hand. Including a few time honoured items will satisfy those who are reluctant to contribute to a Sony 4K UHD LCD Android when they don’t know what it is. 112 decorators

The much admired bodice of Grace Kelly’s wedding gown was made from lace that was over 125 years old. Liquid Paper (also known as Whiteout) is formulated for paper not textiles. Using it on a gown to mask wedding day mishaps could be the worst thing to do. On some materials it will leave a stain that can be impossible to remove. Plain white chalk is your best bet for hiding marks. Approximately 100,000 marriages take place in Las Vegas every year. Before flowers became a bride’s standard choice (around 500 years ago), stalks of corn or wheat served as bouquets. Tying some form of ceremonial knot at weddings is found in many cultures.

uplighting over 20000 songs free consultation

Creating memories that will last a lifetime 2016 brides choice award winner recognized in the top 5 percent of djs nationwide

519-365-9854 | www.partytimedjservices.ca

Knots to Tots Photography

monogram lighting

how do I look? entertaining southwestern ontario since

2000

award winning team

of professional dj’s

lighting photobooth mc services

licensed

~ your day, your way ~

& insured

519-854-9966 info@schwartzmusic.ca www.schwartzmusic.ca

There are two things to keep in mind when scouting venues. How does the room look, and how do you look in the room? When you’re looking at the size, walls and floor check out the person next to you. Does the room flatter them, or do they look like they need some sleep? Even the most magical atmosphere can cast unflattering shadows. You may discover that the room makes you look fantastic, or that you will need to work on the flattery factor with additional lighting. Visiting a prospective location during daylight hours with an evening reception in mind? Arrange to visit the room during the hours you will be occupying it. The old adage “The difference is day and night” is never more true.

Bianca & Dave Workman Daniel McQuillan Photography

September 24, 2016

114 disc jockeys

I remember the evening Dave proposed to me, feeling an absolute amount of happiness. After dating for 7 years, I felt it was about time! I had always wanted to get married in a greenhouse, so naturally I checked out Degroot’s Nurseries in Sarnia, Ontario, who I know takes on a couple of weddings per year in the off season. It was a perfect day, surrounded by family, friends, and the warm open greenhouse allowing the sun and breeze in, not forgetting to mention the glows of nature surrounding us. We couldn’t have asked for a better day! Bianca Workman

Start your planning together NOW Make the most important call... EVER

THE Most Important Call Your wedding is going to be the best, with fabulous memories, but then what? Happily ever after or just another great wedding. Then will it be debt, crash and burn, or a debt free, dream life that finds you more in love that ever on your 50th wedding anniversary. The most important call to Risa and her team is to learn everything about you and how to meet all your dreams and goals as you begin your life together. Ask her how she won Bridal Confidential’s Cover Bride Contest. Is that your dream? Ask her how she can help you meet that dream too! Why would you leave your ‘happily ever after’ to chance, good luck, or bad. You don’t want to be a statistic, “Great wedding... too bad they didn’t make it”. The number one reason couples fail is FINANCES. Risa is the Financial Diva and if you want to succeed as a couple then it’s up to you to call, and find out what steps you need to take. Then you will have the greatest wedding ever and the opportunity to put everything in place, building a knowledge base together to succeed financially and have the best ‘happily ever after’ you can possibly have. Risa’s job is to teach you what you need to know to succeed together long term. It takes time, commitment and a willingness to succeed. Risa would love to meet with you to make sure your dreams and goals are met together. Don’t wait. There is no consultation fee to have Risa work with you. Have you thought about wedding insurance? Basically, wedding insurance protects a couple’s investment from circumstances beyond their control, and reimburses expenses incurred. For example, what if your limo driver doesn’t show up and you have to book another one the morning of the wedding—for three times the price? What if your reception space goes out of business a month before the wedding, and you lose your deposit and have to book another space? These are the types of wedding day financial losses that wedding insurance can help protect.

Looking forward to helping you with all your insurance and financial planning. Risa Andersen ~ The Financial Diva C: 519-784-7141 . T: 519-350-1702 . 1-877-212-0477 risa@thefinancialdiva.ca . www.thefinancialdiva.ca

where’s the connection?

“My greatest enjoyment is ensuring that every flower detail of a Bride and Grooms wedding is perfect”. 46 William Street South

In Beautiful Downtown Chatham

519-354-5555 . 800-219-6847 Nicole DeJoseph Photography

what

www.purplepansy.ca

was that?

Where to seat older guests is a decision that has to be based on statistics and assumption. Statistics show that as we age we lose a significant amount of hearing, and it follows that when seated near a loud-speaker what’s left is useless. Do your hippy-generation guests the favour of assuming they no longer see the appeal of deafening (excuse the pun) music, and put some distance between them and the speakers.

Magic can be defined by the moving strains of Whitney Houston’s “I will always love you”. With the spotlight on them, the newlyweds are the picture of happiness as they sway to her powerfully moving voice echoing through the room. “Bittersweet memories. That is all I’m taking with me. So good-bye. Please don’t cry. We both know I’m not what you need.” Hauntingly beautiful... but wait, what was that about good-by? “I will always love you” moves me as much as the next person, and I even admit to getting teary-eyed over it, however when I hear it played for the first dance, I don’t get the connection. Ms. Houston is singing about two people who are deeply in love, cannot be together, and will probably never meet again. It’s right up there with a Shakespearian tragedy, but a surprising number of couples overlook the heart-wrenching lyrics, and make it their own. Understandable on one hand, unsuitable on the other. Beauty over content?

touches to honour parents Include them in the processional. Have something of theirs’ in your bouquet. A piece of your mother’s jewellery, and your father’s cuff links make wonderful adornments, and honour your parents at the same time. Ask your florist to insert roses, that are easily removed, into your bouquet, and as you approach the mothers present each with one, or make presenting the roses part of your ceremony. Display their wedding photographs beside your guest book and play the recessional music they used. At the reception, ask them to stand up and take a bow while you offer them a toast. Use special decorations and/or centerpieces on their tables.

By Appointment . 519.383.3106 nicole@elementsfloraldesign.com www.elementsfloraldesign.com 116 florists

There is no remedy for love but to love more. Henry David Thoreau

Your One Stop Shop for Floral, Linen and Full Service Decorating

Diane & Rachelle ~ October 1, 2016 www.cheyannhowardphotography.com

full service ceremony & hall decorating Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Customer Service Award Winner

360 Lyndoch St., Corunna . 519-862-1414 . www.lapiersflowers.com

Shelbe & Brent September 10, 2016 www.snyephoto.com

Rikki & Jordan August 20 2016 www.wedding.studiokaoss.ca

Flowersdesigns Forever by Sue

Let me help create your floral wedding designs that you dream of

Fresh Creative Floral Designs for All Occasions Unique Decor and Gifts for Your Home & Garden

132 Russel St., S. Sarnia . 519-491-2500 . sue@flowersforever.ca . www.flowersforever.ca 117 florists

Lasting Wedding Memories

With Everlasting Flowers by Cynthia Cook Forest Glen Herb Farm and B & B

Victorian era farm acres of gardens with unique settings

for ceremonies, receptions & photographs floral arrangements

gift shop

8333 Glendale Drive, Lambton Shores 519-899-4372 sales@forestglenherbfarm.com www.forestglenherbfarm.com

This year is a great milestone for me. It is 35 years since I started the Herb Farm. Over the years many things have changed on my farm particularly my expansion of all of the growing areas. Included is a much larger area for growing everlasting flowers, lavender and other fragrant herbs. This is due to the demand of brides for more functional wedding flowers. Everlasting flowers are those which when dried retain their shape and complete colour. They may be used fresh or pre-dried. In dried form they are used mostly for fall and winter, however for weddings that are some distance away they are a good choice since they do not require water. During the growing season fresh everlastings are the most popular, and brides-to-be can come and see them growing and choose which ones they want for their wedding. As well as supporting a local small farm business customers are happy to know that there is no carbon footprint with my growing of these flowers and foliage. They can be used for anything from wedding event decorations to wedding favours. The Herb Farm is also used as a wedding venue for services and small luncheons or afternoon receptions. We provide a stunning venue for wedding photos, and the B & B is available for overnight stays. Here is a list of a few of the everlasting flowers, and fragrant herbs used for weddings. Most of these are available in a multitude of colours including whites.

suits dress pants jackets ties casual wear shirts... accesSories & alterations RENO FINE CLOTHING FOR MEN

118

150 Front St., Unit B Sarnia | 519-344-7471 renofineclothing@hotmail.ca | www.renofineclothing.com

Lavender, artemisias, ferns, eucalyputus, statice, German and Sea Lavender, baby's breath, coloured statice, globe amaranth, golden ageratum, peonies, amaranthus, hydrangea, xeranthemum, acroclinium, strawflowers, delphinium, ammobium larkspur, ammobium, celosias, antique roses, etc. The drying of fresh bouquets is fairly simple, however they can be dried here if required. Happy wedding preparations! Add some everlasting colour to your life! p

marriage

is a compromise...

At a recent wedding the bride was elegantly attired in a flowing white gown, and believe it or not, the groom was in Bermuda shorts and a shirt with large hibiscus in a variety of bright, clashing colours. Obviously, the bride and groom each had their own style which they wanted to express, but this was just too much!

home parties & bridal registry online for great bridal party gifts & favours for your guests

ANGELA SEKERIS

C: 519-384-8354 H: 519-383-6923 angelasekeris@gmail.com www.mythirtyone.ca/angelasekeris

This is where compromise comes in. Discuss what fashion and style you want for your wedding and then meet each other half way.

unique gifts & favours Heidi Russell . 519-358-6681 heidichouinard@gmail.com

www.heiditinky.scentsy.ca 120 gifts

hand crafted chain maille jewellery

swarovski crystals ~ pearls ~ gemstones

Carly & Brandon September 10, 2016 www.cheyannhowardphotography.com

customized jewellery designs ~ home parties ~ wedding gifts

Holly 519-344-2873 hchaytor@sympatico.ca www.uniquejewelery.ca

Nerissa 519-491-8073 nerissaroberts@live.ca

the toss

At some weddings tossing the bouquet can become a little unruly and minor injuries are not unknown. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a toss alternative that can save lives. Tie one long ribbon to your bouquet and hold several loose ribbons in your hand. Give one end of each ribbon to the girls participating. They then pull on the ribbons to see who wins the bouquet. In place of tossing the bouquet a friend of mine had a fun idea. Her MC asked all of the married people in the room to stand up. Then he asked all those married less than 10 years to sit down, next, those married less than 15 years to sit down and so forth, until it was narrowed down to just two couples left standing. They compared their wedding dates to determine who had been married the longest and the bouquet went to the winner.

Samantha & Andrew December 17, 2016 www.wedding.studiokaoss.ca

Guild Chocolates fine handmade chocolates open to the public saturdays only 4180 Petrolia Ln., Petrolia 519-331-3444 chef@guildchocolates.com www.guildchocolates.com 122

Kelsey & Josiah September 17, 2016 www.cheyannhowardphotography.com

Aromatherapy & Metaphysical Store for body, mind & spirit Est. 1996

experience the equivalent of a full day’s rest in our ‘NeuroSpa’

858 Colborne Rd., Northgate Plaza, Sarnia . 519-332-2929 www.calmnscents.com . facebook.com/calmnscents4U.ca

it pays to be

paranoid

hairstyling manicures pedicures facials spa treatments bridal packages

52 Victoira Ave, Chatham . 519-355-1010 chantellematthew@yaoo.ca . www.chantellessalonandspa.com

TRAVEL SERVICE

Our Place or Yours

Wedding Party Packages Hair Cuts Colours Up-Do's Waxing Piercing 124 hair salons

Appearing on live TV, a previous winner of “The Bachelorette” announced that while she had not gotten married she had kept the 50 thousand dollar diamond ring. When the host commented that she wasn’t wearing it, she said it was at home in her night table drawer. The host remarked that he hoped it was safe, and I guess that’s when the penny dropped because she suddenly looked concerned. I wonder how many burglars were Googling her address while she was still on camera. Post photos of your engagement ring, or share details on the expensive tiara you bought, and you may be enticing the less than honest. Years of active, and uneventful, social media use lulls us into a trusting state, we become desensitized to the dangers, and hit the information highway doing 120K when all the signs are telling us 50K is the safe speed. Announced on nationwide TV, or posted on social media, for a cunning keyboard crook there’s not much difference. Having your precious wedding jewellery stolen would be bad, identity theft would be even worse. So what can you do to protect yourself from virtual violators? Keep a lid how much information you put out there. Friends may want to know you are going away for the weekend, but thieves don’t need to find out you are worried about the cat being alone. That little nugget of information advertises an empty residence. Caution is a wonderful thing, password protection is its back up. And no, the date of your wedding is not a secure password. That would probably be their first guess.

When you trip over love, it is easy to get up. But when you fall in love, it is impossible to stand again. Albert Einstein

4297 Lakeshore Road, Plympton Wyoming 519-384-3070 . julia_verberk@hotmail.com

head first

Before finalizing your choice of hair style for your wedding day, you should decide on head wear first. This would be a great time to revert to your childhood and sit in front of a mirror experimenting with different styles. Borrow your mother’s jewellery again (ask her this time) and use a necklace in place of a headband or tiara, borrow a veil or buy some tulle to make a ‘fake’ veil, and have fun! While this may sound frivolous, in reality it is very serious. You are defining your look for your day. Include your maid-of-honour and bridesmaids in the fun. This will make the experimenting more enjoyable, and you will have an opportunity to gather your wedding party together and get some good advice at the same time.

flame of love It is believed that ancient Greeks called diamonds “teardrops of the Gods,” and the gemstone’s inner fire resembled the flame of everlasting love.

Salon & Day Spa Award Winning Styling 4194 Petrolia Line, Petrolia 519-882-8733 . www.rootedbohemian.com

Dawn & David ~ October 1, 2016 www.cheyannhowardphotography.com

Sarah & Jean-Marc ~ April 30, 2016 www.wedding.studiokaoss.ca hair salons/ tanning 125

the

get your

Must-have Virus

ready

spa nights . bachelorette night ideas...

shop online skin care bath & body hair makeup nutrition weightloss

makeup trials

Alia Scott: 519-282-6174

aler_scott1@hotmail.com www.arbonne.com/aliascott

(aka: peer pressure)

Visions of your loving family and loyal friends gathered to celebrate your happiness. Dreams of being the toasted, and admired center of attention, and all while wearing an amazing gown! Living in anticipation of the wedding day is understandable, and lots of fun, but there is a downside. As soon as you step into the dazzling world of wedding planning you will be exposed to the ‘must-have’ virus and your daydreams can make you vulnerable. This costly little bug is passed from person to person by word of mouth. There’s no way to avoid exposure because it will sneak up on you by way of well intended advice. Every time you say “I’m engaged” you unwittingly invite infection, and it’s only after the congratulations, and usual inquiries have been made that you can tell if someone is a carrier. Any sentence that begins with “But you must have” or “What’s a wedding without” opens the door to a case of must-have. The side effects are easy to recognize. The word budget no longer holds any meaning, and sales staff are high-fiving each other when they see you coming, but the most dangerous symptom is the inability to foresee the day of reckoning. Thankfully, not everyone is susceptible. Brides who are immune know their wedding’s success has nothing to do with conspicuous spending. Their focus is on the purpose behind the event, and they are aware of how much damage secrecy and debt can do to a marriage. Avoid contagion by sealing the budget with two unbreakable rules.

incredible healing powers of the dead sea in a hypoallergenic, paraben free, cruelty free product line.

1: Talk it over. Impulse buying is a bad idea, secret spending is a disastrous idea. Purchases should be made with a cool head and a clear conscience. 2: Keep emotions out of it. You just heard what his old girlfriend spent on her gown so you want two gowns, or in your state of euphoria generosity reigns, and extravagance becomes the outlet for your joy. Up-staging is expensive, and so is expressing your love and happiness with well meaning excess. Getting through this one successfully is like being inoculated. If you can survive this epidemic of temptation with your budget intact you can handle anything the future brings.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS for every body skin - hair - nails - nutrition 519-328-5106 . seacretagentmduquette@gmail.com www.seacretdirect.com/melissad 126 makeup

You are the finest, loveliest, tenderest, and most beautiful person I have ever known and even that is an understatement. F. Scott Fitzgerald

cautionary

tale Brides behaving badly are not only amusing, they’re shining examples of what not to do at your wedding. As guests moved along in the exceedingly slow receiving line the cause of the delay became obvious. The bride was assigning duties. From a list no less! Because it was her wedding day guests were cornered, there was no polite way to decline, and perhaps under the influence of the ‘queen for a day’ syndrome she was taking full advantage. “Make sure all the tables have numbers.” “Check the water level in the centrepieces.” She left no favour unturned, and it didn’t get any better as the day went on.

skin care & cosmetic professional Specializing in

SKIN CARE BRIDAL SPECIAL OCCASION GLAMOUR LOOKS 519-337-5595 lindachivers53@gmail.com www.marykay.ca/lchivers

Seemingly on a mission to request a personal favour from every guest in the room she mingled about asking one person to bring her a glass of champaign another to go help liven up table 10. At one point the groomsmen were placing bets on who she would hit next. Assuming the bride had done a lousy job organizing the wedding, and unable to refuse, disgruntled guests reluctantly carried out their assignments as they transitioned from guest to gofer.

RSVP

A term brides use every day, but what exactly does it mean? RSVP is short for the French expression “respondez s’il vous plait” which, in direct translation, means “respond if you please”.

Given the speed of reception room gossip, it quickly got around that unless you wanted to be enlisted as washroom attendant you had better avoid the bride. I heard about her demanding behaviour when I was gofering out to the limo for her flats.

if it’s

good enough for her... Showing the gals your gown? Not without a garment bag. Their first response will be to touch it, and even if their hands are clean enough to perform surgery they shouldn’t be allowed anywhere near it. Tourists view the glass covered Mona Lisa from six feet away. The reasons for that are obvious, and the same principle applies to your (more precious than the Mona Lisa) gown. No food or drink should be allowed in the room, and it would be nice if they spoke in respectful, hushed tones. PS: For centuries experts have debated the meaning behind the mysterious lady’s wry smile. I think I have it! She was looking at a careless bride who’s gown-viewing friend just spilled tea. And the thought behind Mona Lisa’s polite but amused smile? “What did you think was going to happen?”

Experience Sarnia’s Finest, Luxury Chic Retreat!

With the leader in mineral makeup, the skin you always wanted is just a brush away? Our mineral line of cosmetics will give you that photo finish and flawless complexion that every bride dreams of. Let our makeup experts help you discover your inner beauty!

1410 London Road, Sarnia www.adoraspa.ca 519-337-9212

makeup 127

judgement day Regardless of how perfectly a maid-of-honour performed her duties before the wedding, it all comes down to how she performs on the day. This is the day that makes or breaks a MOH’s reputation and she has to be prepared to turn her attention in two directions. In one direction she has to act as team captain, keeping the bridesmaids available and focused. When bridesmaids misbehave it reflects on the bride, but like any chain of command the responsibility comes down to the MOH. Bridesmaids who are unavailable when needed cause delays in a precisely timed day, one who is getting raunchy due to ‘a few to many’ has to be reminded to bring it down a notch. Timekeeper, group coordinator and alcohol supervisor. A great maid-of-honour has to be all these things, and at the same time watch the bride like a hawk. If there’s one hair out of place on the bride’s coiffure, the MOH should see it from a mile away and swoop in for repairs. The bride will be running the gauntlet of hugs and kisses that will rub off makeup, distort her hairstyle, and make her veil go wonky. With no mirror available to access the damage she will be relying on her MOH to let her know if her makeup is surviving the onslaught. She will have to rescue the bride from long-winded guests, keep ice-cream covered children away from her, and be by her side with a tissue in hand when she needs one. Most importantly, all of these things must be done discretely so that no one else in the room will know the bride just lost a false eyelash.

The area's exclusive Envelopments dealer. paper supplies & invitations

Let’s create something beautiful together Email Kim for an appointment today! thepaperpickle@gmail.com 44 Fourth Street, Chatham . 519.351.5220 . www.paperpickle.ca 128 invitations

I was supposed to take that? A lot of time and thought goes into choosing the perfect wedding favour, so why do guests occasionally leave them behind? A few were probably forgotten, but sometimes they weren’t recognized as favours in the first place. On a table laden with dinnerware, silverware, glassware, flowers, candles, napkins and condiments a favour can easily be overlooked as part of the decor. Perhaps as wedding guests we aren’t too bright, so we need favours to be clearly labelled, displayed on a separate table, or easily distinguishable. Put a little box of chocolates on at my place setting, and I will know what it’s for right off, but I won’t be sure why there’s an ornament beside my water glass. The most easily recognizable wedding favour is a little bag containing five sugared almonds. They represent the blessings of health, wealth, happiness, fertility and longevity and there are five because 5 can’t be equally divided.

Sarnia/Lambtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premier Location for Bras, Shapewear and Fashions

s e t t e u Silho Boutique

For Every Woman ... Every Day 125 North Christina Street, Sarnia 519 337 8700 . Monday to Saturday 9 - 5:30 www.silhouettesboutique.com

Celebrating 60 years

Sizes 2 to 22

Because all women deserve to feel beautiful... every day!

professional bra fittings . certified mastectomy fittings & products . band 28 to 56 . cup AA to m

stylish sleep & lounge wear . swim & cruise wear . saxx underwear for men 184 N. Christina St., Sarnia . 519-491-5256 . lilithboutiquesarnia@gmail.com . www.lilithboutique.ca

if I’d known... I would have done it differently After almost every wedding there are things the bride would have done differently, and things guests wish she had done differently. Remarkably, the benefit of hindsight reveals the same errors over and over. Every wedding will have it’s own unique set of flaws, but at least you can side step the most common ones. Overly trendy. By definition trendy means something that won’t last. Hot today - horrible tomorrow. In the future when you display your wedding album the biggest compliment you can get will be “What year was this?”. Timeless and classic beat trendy every time. I can do that! Newly engaged enthusiasm can lure you into thinking you can do it all yourself. Talk to some DYI brides and most of them will have one thing in common; their planning process was stressful and taking on so much was a monumental mistake. The average time between “I will” and “I do” is about one and a half to two years. Over that length of time energetic enthusiasm fades, and overwhelmed takes its place. 130

Faded dreams. Every bride hopes to have the wedding she envisions, but sometimes her plans get lost in an effort to please everyone from flowergirl to grandmother. When family traditions and social obligations come into play, dreams can get brushed aside. You will need flexibility to meet their wishes, and firmness to hold onto yours without breaking traditions or injuring feelings. Do what you can to appease, but hold onto your vision. I’ll be fine. Too excited to eat and a few drinks to relax? If the downside isn’t self-explanatory, remember to bring aspirin.

Dimples Décor.com Your Local Certified Home Staging & Interior Decorating Company

Servicing Chatham-Kent & Surrounding Areas Including Sarnia, Windsor, London…

Home Staging Works! Professionally Staged Homes . . . . Look better than other homes on the market. . Spend 73% less time on the market. . Typically sell for more money. . Look better in print and Internet ads. . Receive more foot traffic. . End up on a buyer's "must see" list. . Are viewed by buyers as "well maintained". . Are "move-in” ready. . Have less reasons for buyers to ask for concessions. . Professionally staged listings "STAND-OUT". in prospective buyers' minds.

Whether you are Buying/Selling a home or would like to love where you live, Dimples Décor is here to help. With our $75 consult, we give you a full walk and talk through your home and provide tips/ideas on the spot. Further services can be purchased if desired. Our goal is to help you sell your home for the most money and to make your current home a relaxing, organized space that is a beautiful reflection of you.

Book Your Consultation Today @ 519.350.2263 www.facebook.com/DimplesDecorStephanieSimmons

Call or Text: 519.350.2263 . dimplesdecor@hotmail . dimplesdecor.com Find us Online

The only stretched cadillac escalade in South Western Ontario

Stretch your imagination with us!

GRANDEURlimousine

Never missed a wedding in 24 years.

519-453-7307 . 1-877-246-2844 . grandeurlimousine.com Voted best limousine service in South Western Ontario

the big 3

too soon too small too much

Read any article offering tips on buying your wedding gown and you’re going to read the same information phrased in a variety of ways. Why do they keep repeating the same advice? According to professionals, brides aren’t taking it to heart. Consequently, too soon, too small, and too expensive are still the top three gown shopping faux pas. Too soon. It’s all about the gown, and desperation to have it hanging on the closet door, where it can be admired daily, is the first of the three temptations. Having a clear vision of what they want for their wedding, future brides sometimes overlook the possibility that it may not be what they get, and dash out to make the purchase. The bride who’s ‘formal January’ plans transitioned to ‘casual June’ is easy to spot. The gown is beautiful, but out of place, and the bride is melting under the multiple layers of heavy fabric. Resist the too soon purchase, and wait until your visions are confirmed.

132 limousines

Too small. The ultimate diet motivation? Perhaps, but there’s a misfire in logic here. When it can be taken in, but not let out, why would anyone risk buying a gown that’s doesn’t fit, and why would they set themselves up for the possibility of double disappointment? Weight loss that didn’t happen and a gown that’s tight in all the wrong places. Resist the temptation. Buy a gown that fits, eat carrots, and have it taken in when the times comes. Too expensive. Any bride who blows the entire budget on her gown will tell you the last thing she remembers saying was “I’ll just try it on”. The best way to beat this temptation is by not being tempted in the first place. If it’s not within your budget don’t look, don’t touch and for heaven’s sake don’t try it on. Fall in love with a gown you can’t afford, and the gown you buy will feel like second best. Browse within your budget - your dream dress will be there.

State of the art vehicles to accommodate your entire wedding party.

Now... I kn o w h o w she felt

Why did Romeo and Juliet meet such a tragic end? Their families drove them to it. Battling parents have been the backbone of fateful love stories throughout recorded history. Shakespeare’s tale of star crossed lovers is extreme, and it’s unlikely you will face such opposition, but meddling families can give you a profound understanding of how Juliet felt. Your mother insists on a traditional meal that reflects your ethnic background, his mother wants fusion cuisine. His father wants to wear a tux, your’s won’t even consider it. When compounded by numbers, small disagreements can drive any future couple off the edge.

Luxury Coaches

www.badderbus.com Serving Chatham-Kent & Sarnia/Lambton 519-692-3976 . 1-800-668-1974 . dougb@badderbus.com

“United we stand, divided we fall”. When you and your fiancé are in agreement it will be much easier to appease and control disagreeing families. Approaching any point of contention as a unit will be more effective than tackling the issue alone. “This is what we want” carries more weight than “This is what I want”. He deals with his family and you deal with yours. Parents will be more receptive if the rules come from their respective children. No matter how difficult your future in-laws are being, let him handle it, do your best not to get involved, and avoid having him feel trapped between his family and his fiancée.

supreme superstition Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe. Most of us have known that good luck rhyme since childhood, and it’s one superstition that most brides incorporate. This Victorian charm has evolved into a wedding standard, and is just too much fun to pass up. Some brides even plan their attire around it. Something old represents the bride’s love and respect for her family and its history. Something new brings luck and happiness in her future life. For something borrowed, it should be borrowed from someone who is happy in their marriage so they can pass their happiness to you (the borrowed item must be returned or the charm is broken). Faithfulness and loyalty are represented by wearing something blue. ...and a sixpence your shoe? Obviously to bring financial security. A little uncomfortable but worth a try. 134 limousines/coaches

p r e pa r e d n e s s Although it seldom occurs, the dread of a stained gown is one thing all brides have in common. Most would rather trip on the way down the aisle than get a mark on their designer original. Relax, neither one is likely to happen, but it can’t hurt to get to know your gown’s likes and dislikes a little better. When you have found the one, it’s time for a talk with your gown professional. Getting an understanding of the fabric, and how to deal with mishaps is not only comforting, it’s gown preparedness. Armed with this knowledge you are less likely to panic and turn an almost unnoticeable speck of gravy into an unsightly distraction.

519-359-9665 . kellie@snyephoto.com . www.snyephoto.com

first impression Lost wedding guests are easy to spot. They’re the ones standing in the lobby, looking bewildered, and hoping someone can tell them where the reception is being held. A minor inconvenience that makes a negative first impression. Do what you would do if they were coming to your home, greet them at the door, or in this case, have them greeted at the door. An usher with a warm smile and directions will impress any guest, and if you simply can’t spare anyone for door duty, a welcoming sign, in a prominent place, will let them know where to find you.

136 photographers

Understanding what to do is just half the equation. The other half is not doing it too quickly. Attempting to rub something off is a natural first response that, in this case, is all wrong. Whatever the substance is, it’s not going to get any worse in the next few seconds, so before making any moves, access the situation. Is it liquid or powder? Do you blow or blot? Most gown disasters are the result of making the wrong decision.

modern dining

great atmosphere

1717 London Line, Sarnia 519-542-5553

www.bigfishlounge.com

Decor and flowers by Exquisitely Designed Photography by Kaoss Studios - Intro Home

Fine Dining in a Friendly Atmosphere accommodating up to free room rental

100 guests

. fully licensed

quality, chef prepared meals

. rehearsal dinners weddings . receptions showers

1591 London Rd., Sarnia 519-541-1333 olives@cogeco.net . www.olivescuisine.ca

138 restaurants

196 Christina St., N. Sarnia . 519-344-6097

w w w.limb ol ounge.c a

W h e r e C u lt u r e M e e t s C l a s s

lessing

Wedding Rentals 5 STATION UNITS 4 Station Units 2 Station Units His and Her Stalls Elegant Décor Air Conditioning Heat - Stereo

Portable washrooms with the comfort of home. 7646 Creek Line, Chatham | www.doverportajohn.com

140 rental services

tones

Everyone loves to throw stones into the water, everyone wants to wish the newlyweds good luck. Especially fun for beach weddings, blessing stones are a delightful way to combine the two. With many of our wedding traditions already based on garnering good luck one more can’t hurt. Working on the same principle as the wishing well, a small stone is given to each guest, and at the end of the ceremony they are asked to make their blessing to the couple as they toss the stone into a lake or pond. A charming way to include guests in the ceremony, and generate interaction. Buying river rocks is one way to go, but gathering the perfect rocks while strolling with your fiancé sounds more appealing. Make the stones significant by gathering them in a special place like the spot where you met, became engaged, or from the beach where you will be married. You could gather shale for skipping stones and let your guests demonstrate their skills. Include an explanation of the rocks in your program, or have your celebrant announce it.

manicures

pedicures

tanning

waxing

contingency

Fund

Alterations, tips, delivery charges, and postage all come under the umbrella of ‘hidden fees‘. No matter how carefully your plan your budget there will be countless expenses you didn’t think to allow for. They’re called hidden for a reason. Numerous trips to your venue, florist and gown shop? Need I mention the price of gasoline? House guests arriving before the wedding? That’s going to cost more in groceries and water/power usage. You can’t know how much these expenses will add up to, but you know they’re going to be there. Budget with unknown extras in mind.

Pretty Pampered salon

All you really need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt.

104 King Street E, Forest . 226-520-1119 prettypampered1@yahoo.ca . www.prettypamperedsalon.ca

hair

Peanuts

& bridal makeup

bridal parties bachelorette parties laser hair removal skin rejuvenation & pigmentation hand & foot care body wraps weight loss facials

Within each person the potential exists for perfect balance, a state of well-being that radiates from the inside out. Enjoy the simple elegance of Maison Grand Wellness Day Spa. Indulge yourself or get away from the stress of the day. We can transport you into another world. vitamins

supplements

massage therapy

291 Grand Ave. W. Chatham . 519-354-2910 . mgwellness@bellnet.ca . www.maisongrand.com 142 spas

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I doâ&#x20AC;?... try something Different

before you say

Treat Your Bridal Party girls and guys to a day or evening at the spa to prepare for the big event

563 Front Street, North, Sarnia 519-337-9998 . info@glassandpillarspa.com www.glassandpillarspa.com

Manicures . pedicures . waxing . facials makeup . massage . body treatments

Experience Sarnia’s Finest, Luxury Chic Retreat! Book a ‘Couples Spa Day’ or customize a ‘Spa Lux Party’ and celebrate with your bridal party.

1410 London Road, Sarnia | 519-337-9212 | www.adoraspa.ca

Inspiration: Every Wear

Award Winning Styling Hair Design Extensions Exclusively Using Moroccanoil & Aveda Body Gel Nail Services Make Up Application Organic Spray Tan Private Lounge Area Complimentary Muffin Basket

the rooted bohemian FULL

S E RV I C E

sa l on

s pa

4194 Petrolia Line, Petrolia 519-882-8733 www.rootedbohemian.com

"may your hearts grow roots intertwined, and your dreams together be realized "

Local

Fashions next 6 pages

Presented by Aliya Bridal Fashions Bella Bridal Bridal Couture Bridal Gallery Enchantment Bridal & Formal Gowns Garber’s Bridal Here Comes The Bride His & Hers Wear and Bridal It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique Jacobs Gowns . Footwear . Accessories Nadia’s Bridal Designs Once Upon A Time Weddings Savvy Bridal Consignment Boutique Silhouettes Boutique Sophie’s Gown Shoppe Zara Designs Boutique & Alterations

BRIDAL COUTURE www.bridalcouture.ca Maggie Sottero Wet Fresco Photography Hair: Kristen Brushette (Instagram: krsbrsh.hair)

Enchanting... by Mon Cheri Diamond White Sizes 0-20 #217108

Morilee White, Ivory, Ivory/Nude Sizes 2-28 #8187

garberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bridal

David Tutera Ivory/Petal, Ivory or White Sizes 0-20 #217203

www.garbersbridal.com

HERE COMES THE BRIDE www.herecomesthebride.ca Stella York #6237

BRIDAL GALLERY www.bridalgallery.ca Kenneth Winston #1592 148 local fashions

His & Hers Wear and Bridal www.hisandhersbridal.com Sophia Tolli style # LYNX

Maggie Sottero Cordelia

Essense of Australia D2403

Stella York 6555

sophieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gown shoppe www.sophiesgownshoppe.com local fashions 149

11008 Montage 117921

Social Occasions 117821

jacobs gowns . footwear . accessories www.jacobsboutique.com

Allure Bridals Wet Fresco Photography Hair: Kristen Brushette (Instagram: krsbrsh.hair)

BRIDAL COUTURE www.bridalcouture.ca 150 local fashions

Enchantment Bridal & Formal Gowns

www.enchantmentformals.com Maggie Sottero - Cadence ALIYA BRIDAL FASHIONS www.aliyabridalfashions.com Brenda Style No: 7RS303

local fashions 151

Joseph Ribhoff 171284

Joseph Ribhoff 101009

Joseph Ribhoff 171712

silhouettes boutique . www.silhouettesboutique.com

Savvy Bridal Consignment Boutique www.savvybridal.ca Sottero & Midgley ‘Danica’

152 local fashions

ONCE UPON A TIME WEDDINGS www.onceuponatimeweddings.ca Dress exclusive to this store. Photography: Hatt Photography

Bella Bridal www.bellabridalwindsor.com

Zara Designs Boutique and Alterations Facebook

local fashions 153

Professional film services, close to home.

Capturing moments to share for a lifetime.

Located Sarnia/Lambton Corey Leckie | 519-312-3465

mediaframeworks@gmail.com | frameworksmedia.ca

thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something about

beauty

dresden

Trillium Trail Rare Fauna Sydenham River

history Uncle Tomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cabin Carneigie Library

people friendly - Helpful Happy to See You

Fresh & Silk Flowers Hall Decor, Linens, Chair Covers, Gifts & More... Big Enough to Serve You... Small Enough to Care. 445 St. George St. Dresden , ON 519.683.4368 1.877.228.3440

www.mckellarsflowers.ca

Lambton Kent Memorial Agricultural Centre

The perfect setting for your event

complimentary hall rental when we operate the bar

catering to large and small events dinnerware & table cover rentals

1212 North St., Dresden www.chatham-kent.ca For bookings: Dresden Municipal Centre 519.683.2572

296 St. George St., Dresden . 519-683-4371 burnsrestaurant@hotmail.com . www.burnsrestaurant.ca

156

2016 Sarnia/Chatham Cover contest Winnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; trip Amanda & Adam

Thank you to Transat, Travel Agents in Action and Bridal Confidential, for our amazing honeymoon to Riviera Maya Cancun Mexico. We stayed at Now Jade Riviera, Cancun. It was beautiful and they treated us like we owned the place. The food was delicious! The resort was clean and beautiful, and the staff were so polite and friendly. Definitely a dream come true. We each picked an excursion. I picked swimming with the dolphins and Adam picked Chichen-Itza. Swimming with the dolphins was unbelievable. They are magnificent animals. We swam with two adult dolphins and a four month old baby dolphin. The baby dolphin wouldn't leave me alone it was so cool. Chichen-Itza, the Mayan ruins, were beautiful! Seeing the structure and hearing the history was just mind blowing. We seen lots of iguanas, we swam in a Cenote (underground pool of water) and even saw The Great Maya Reef on our bike tour. Every night they had different shows presented at the resort. They had a BMX/Hip hop dance show, traditional Mexican dancers, magic, cover band of The Beatles, and a very cool fire show. The spa there was also great. We had a couples massage, relaxed in the hot tub and even had a fish foot bath where lots of tiny fish swim and ate at our feet. It was weird but a lot of fun. This trip was amazing and I'm glad we had the opportunity to do this. It was both mine and Adam's first time at an all inclusive resort. We had such an amazing time. Thanks again for the best honeymoon/vacation ever! Susan . www.foreverpreciousmemories.com . seliuk@TAIA.ca

travel 157

Heaven’s

Wildlife

Rescue

helping injured and abandoned animals since 2011

Heaven’s Wildlife Rescue cared for each of these animals and many more.

We were cold

I was run over

They were fed, healed and returned to the wild. Heaven’s helped the little coyote find his mom.

I was hungry

I broke my leg

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

I lost my mom

We need your help

Let us help you create the Perfect Wines for your Special Day

Scheana & Darrell ~ July 16, 2016 www.wedding.studiokaoss.ca

Satisfaction Guaranteed Save money and personalize your Wedding Wine with our Customized Labels sarnia lambton’s wedding wine specialists for over 18 years

Dawn & David ~ October 1, 2016 www.cheyannhowardphotography.com

645 Lakeshore Rd. (at Colborne) Sarnia 519-337-0303 artisanwines@cogeco.net . www.sarniawinemaking.com

“No one makes it better than you” leave the way you

all wines are made with reverse osmosis water

Came In

It’s going to be a long day, and by the time you are ready to make your grand exit it will all have come down to comfort. The bride who waves goodbye wearing her gown, and the four inch heels she was married in, had the foresight to buy a gown that didn’t pinch, and danced all night in her backup slippers. Her ensemble was complete because she also put some thought into her jewellery. Her bracelet didn’t snag, her tiara and earrings were light as a feather and her necklace didn’t dangle in her soup.

If food is the body of good living, wine is its soul. Clifton Fadiman

personalized bottles over 100 different wine kits

california connoisseur niagara mist ken ridge

South West Connoisseur Wine 446 Lyndoch Street, Corunna . 519-862-1713 connwine@hotmail.com . www.swconnwine.com

wine making 159

windsor/essex 2017 Cover bride contest Winners

Renalyn & Christopher My photo shoot day

by Renalyn Gicole

When I first found out about the contest, I figured, why bother? I never win anything. As days passed, I had this feeling that urged me to keep looking at the Bridal Confidential Magazine that I was given at the show. Planning our wedding became easier when I realized that there were are a lot of local companies in the magazine. I told my fiancé Christopher about it, he told me to win it. I booked vendors from the Bridal Confidential magazine and website which gave us points toward winning a once in a life time experience. Our day started with Pat from Live Tech Videography. Pat made us feel comfortable being videoed. He guided us on our day and was very patient. We were picked up by Bob from Limos by Mister J's. Bob looked charming in his tuxedo. He opened the door for us, and made sure the temperature and music suited us. Bob and Chris hit it off right away, as they are both automotive fanatics. Our first stop was Salon Attitude to get my hair done. Marylou greeted us with a smile and a bag of travel sized products. Watching my stylist, Naci was like watching an artist. She made sure that the curls would hold all day... and they did! My hair looked fabulous. Time to make me look pretty! Off we go to Beautiful Images. I have been seeing Anna for a couple months since I booked her for our wedding. Upon meeting her, she made me feel that the salon was my second home, my stress reliever. Anna is fun and caring, and has taught me how to maintain good skin. Wedding stress can make you break out! Anna applied my makeup exactly the way I like it, she made me look beautiful. Knowing that we are dog lovers, Anna brought her two dogs. It made our day extra special. Now off to pick up some gifts. Thank you Best Western Plus Waterfront for our overnight stay for two gift certificate. We cant wait to stay there for our wedding and wake up to enjoy the

beautiful view of the Detroit River. Thank you Mezzo Ristorante for our dinner for two gift certificate. Mezzo has an ambiance for a fine romantic dinner. Thank you Sweet Revenge Bake Shop for our goodies and gift card. Everything tasted so good and the macaroons were to die for. Next we were warmly greeted at Collins Formal where they helped Chris choose a suit. He chose a maroon colour, and I was in awe, he looked so handsome! The suit fit and looked like it was tailored for him. Sarah welcomed me at It's Your Day Bridal Boutique. Sarah worked her magic and helped me pick an adorable short gown. She matched the jewelry to my dress and shoes. I felt so beautiful and Chris wanted to marry me on the spot. Now were off to our last stop, the stunning Chalet Studio and Gardens. I couldn’t believe what their studio has to offer. Alan and Janet are amazing! From the moment we set foot on their property, they made us feel welcome. We started with some snacks and cocktails. Janet made sure I was ready for the photoshoot by checking every detail of my makeup, hair and dress. We had so much fun! We were there for four hours without noticing it! We had music all throughout and we were dancing! Janet and Alan are the perfect pair. They are a magical duo, and their passion for their work really shows! They have such amazing ideas that the finished product will render you speechless. I can't thank them enough for such a wonderful experience. Thank you Bridal Confidential magazine for this amazing opportunity! This is a once in a lifetime experience. Thank you Transat and Travel Agents in Action for our honeymoon at Majestic Elegance Punta Cana in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. We can't wait to enjoy our week. This will be an amazing vacation for our new life together as a married couple! Winning this Cover Bride Contest will never be forgotten!

Thank You to our Sponsors All Inclusive Trip for Two: Transat, Travel Agents in Action & Bridal Confidential Makeup: Beautiful Images Aesthetics & Hair Day Spa Photographer/Location: Chalet Studio Limousine: Limos by Mister. J’s Videographer: Live Tech Photo Video Gift Basket: Sweet Revenge Bake Shop Gown: It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique Dinner for Two: Mezzo Ristorante Tuxedo: Collins Formal Wear Overnight Stay: Best Western Plus Waterfront Hotel Hair: Salon Attitude See photos and video at bridalconfidential.com under ‘Gallery’. 162

Susan . www.foreverpreciousmemories.com . seliuk@TAIA.ca

cover bride contest winners...

164

1st Place Winners Renalyn & Christopher

2nd Place Winners Katelyn & Dean

3rd Place Winners Antonietta & Rocco

4th Place Winners Samantha & Eric

5th Place Winners Melissa & Brian

6th Place Winners Ryanne & Ken

7th Place Winners Rasha & Jake

8th Place Winners Brittany & Matthew

9th Place Winners Jessica & Adam

...windsor/essex 2017

11th Place Winners Kaitlyn & Ryan

10th Place Winners Natalie & Scott

12th Place Winners Nicole & Daniel

winners & Prizes ~ Thank You to our Sponsors 1st

All Inclusive Trip for Two ~ Transat & Travel Agents in Action.

2nd Overnight Stay for Two & $100 Food Voucher ~ Caesars Windsor.

13th Place Winners Katherine & Donald

3rd

$250 Gift Certificate for Dining, Golf or Party ~ Ambassador Golf.

4th

$100 Gift Certificate ~ Mezzo Ristorante.

5th

4 Hour Night Out in a 8 Passenger Limo Butterfield Limousine Service.

6th

BERING Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Watch ~ G & G Jewellery and Coins.

7th

Engagement or Anniversary Session ~ Blush Photography.

8th Two Personalized Hangers ~ Touch of Heart. 9th

Gift Package containing One Mini Facial, Sunless Tanner, Sunscreen, Body Moistureizer and Lip Balm ~ Rodan + Fields.

10th $200 Gift Certificate ~ Bridal Couture. 11th Use of Sprucewood Shores Winery Grounds for Engagement Photos with a Picnic Basket ~ Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery. 12th Three Piece Jewellery Set, including Bracelet, Earrings and Head Piece with Rhinestones ~ Nadiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridal Designs. 13th Dinner for Two ~ Riverside Sportsmen Club. 14th One Year Socks Club Subscription ~ Collins Formal Wear. 14th Place Winners Heather & Kyle

165

easy for them

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

decor

don’t

FRIENDLY

SERVICE

CLEAN AND 100% HAMPTON FRESH BED GUARANTEE

Reflected on the dance floor or monogrammed on napkins, limit your use of intertwined initials to one or two places. Regardless of how divine your initials look together when they appear too often they lose their mystique.

In Honour of the Ones We Love a charitable organization helping cancer patients in the windsor & essex county

Patient & family care for those with life threatening illnesses and disabilities. Kids Beating Cancer Honourable Little Ninjas Therapeutic Karate Program

519-972-0083 www.inhonour.ca Like us on Facebook 168

Together we do make a difference!

Guests have always presented their gifts with the sincerest hope that it would be something the couple wanted and needed, but without a registry it was a catch 22 situation. It was unacceptable for guests to ask, and unacceptable for couples to say. In 1924 Chicago’s Marshall Field’s department store solved the don’t ask/don’t tell dilemma with the ultimate go-between. The bridal registry. Registries let guests know what the couple wanted, and guests could rest assured that they had made the right choice. Then it got even better - for some of us. Online registries offer the ultimate in ease and convenience, but they are not for everyone. For some guests, one click virtual shopping is the best thing since pockets, while others still prefer the reality of a brick-and-mortar store. High-tech/ low-tech options offer something for everyone. Be sure to include a wide price range, and at least one store should offer gift wrapping. Demonstrate your ‘great hostess’ skills before the wedding by making their shopping as easy as possible.

take advantage If you haven’t done it in the past, now would be a good time to take advantage of the rewards offered by credit cards. A lot of money is spent on weddings, and the rewards could be substantial, but there’s a catch. When credit companies offer benefits they are gambling. The prospect of something for nothing encourages you to use the card, and they’re betting the balance won’t be paid before the due date. Since the interest rate far outweighs the rewards they come out the winner. When bills aren’t paid before the interest kicks in the rewards are pointless. Pay on schedule and you really are taking advantage.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a matter of view

The only hotel in Windsor and Detroit where all 305 rooms have a view of the waterfront Banquet Facilities . Wedding Group Rates . Free Wifi & Local Calls Complimentary Hot Buffet Breakfast . Wheelchair Accessible Rooms

277 Riverside Drive West, Windsor . 877-973-7829 sales@windsor-hotel.ca . www.Windsor-Hotel.ca

When Being There Means So Much

Complimentary Hot Breakfast Fully renovated 24 hour fitness room Close to all major banquet halls and wineries Free Wireless High Speed Internet Access

Let your guests experience comfort on a whole new level. 279 Erie St. South, Leamington 519-326-9071 stay@qileamington.com

www.choicehotels.ca/en/quality-inn-leamington-hotel-cn276 FIND US:

156 spacious rooms & suites

Newest hotel in Windsor

WINDSOR WATERFRONT

Stunning waterfront view Excellent Service with Affordable Pricing

modern formula blue™ smart design for smart travel ~ free express start™ breakfast mini fridge & microwave in all rooms ~ indoor heated pool & 24-hour fitness ~ business centre & upgraded Wi-Fi meeting room and large open concept breakfast area overlooking the detroit skyline easy walk to casino, st. clair centre for the arts, windsor’s art gallery and many restaurants

Heather Nantau Director of Sales . 33 Riverside Dr. E. Windsor 519-258-7774 Ext. 7100 . C: 519-551-0461 . sales@windsor-downtown.com hiexpresswindsorwaterfront.com

Panini . Tortes . Pastries . Wedding Cakes . Catering . Gift Baskets

286 Erie St. S., Leamington ON 519-326-2626 . www.lakesidebakery.com

• Bride/groom house • Hair Salon brunch • Limo ride • Hotel snacks

Cake

protocol

Ashley & Chris ~ October 8, 2016 www.blushphotos.ca

Display your wedding cake in a prominent place where your guests will be able to approach it and appreciate it’s beauty, however it should never block the view of your head table. When you are ready to cut the cake have it announced. This is a special moment in your wedding which no one should miss. Choose a special piece of music and have your DJ play it as you cut the cake. The bride holds the knife in her right hand and the groom places his hand over hers. When the first piece is cut you can feed some to each other (no cake mashing please... it will ruin your makeup). Some couples like to cut and present a piece of the cake to their parents. After the initial cut a member of your catering staff should remove it and cut the rest which will be served for dessert.

Elana & Ben ~ June 3, 2016 www.trevorboothphotography.ca 172 bakeries

Planning to save the top layer of your cake for your first anniversary celebrations? One freezer bag won’t be enough to preserve it properly. Wrap the cake with plastic wrap and place it inside a freezer bag. Put bagged cake into a box (over the following year, the day to day use of your freezer could crush it) then wrap it in tin foil and place everything in another freezer bag.

Giovanni Caboto Club

Est 1925

Yvette & Derek ~ June 25, 2016 www.trevorboothphotography.ca

distinctly unique and richly decorated quality food ~ excellent service choose from a variety of packages or design your own with the help of our professionals

getting your

2175 Parent Ave., Windsor 519-252-8383 joanne@cabotoclub.com www.cabotoclub.com

Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get, only with what you are expecting to give, which is everything. Katharine Hepburn

guy involved

More grooms complain about being left out during the planning stages than you would imagine. True, some guys just don’t want anything to do with wedding planning (these are the ones who would just as soon go to city hall and have it done with), but most men would like to take part in the arrangements. Why doesn’t he just say something? Even though we live in a gender equal society, some areas still fall into the ‘her thing’ category and wedding planning practically heads the list. So if you think he wants to work along with you but is reluctant to step up, here are some ideas to nudge him in the right direction. Let him make the announcements to family and friends. This is a great way to start. Right off the bat, he’s as much the centre of attention as you are. Ask him to take care of specific duties. If he is especially reluctant, give him the task of choosing transportation first. For most men this is the equivalent of the carrot in front of the donkey. If he won’t respond to this one, there’s no hope.

stay involved for very long if every idea he comes up with is dismissed without consideration. Take him along when planning your gift registry. If he’s reluctant, remind him that there is more to a gift registry than china and crystal. There’s hardware and software and big screen TVs... Oh my! Utilize his skills. If he’s a good negotiator, ask him to work with your professionals to get the best rates. If he’s a computer nut, ask him to set up a wedding website. Everyone is good at something and whatever it is, they generally enjoy doing it.

Making wine together or taking dance lessons are fun ways to work on the wedding plans and spend quality time together. If you are honeymooning in another country, take language lessons, or cooking lessons for those future romantic evenings at home. Not too many guys will want to pass on the cake and food tasting sessions. With a little forethought you will find a number of ways to get him involved and when you do, above all else, make it fun. Listen to his suggestions and weigh the decisions fairly. He’s not going to 176 banquet halls

Vanessa & Eric ~ May 16, 2016 www.blushphotos.ca

Plan your Perfect Day

Gift

455 Seacliff Dr., Kingsville . County Rd. 20 . 519-733-6551 800-597-3533 . events@peleeisland.com . www.peleeisland.com

the

The purpose of the wedding gift is to give the newly married couple a head start on the many things they will need to begin their life together. Surprisingly, the giving of a gift by an invited guest is not compulsory and at one time was almost unheard of. In modern society, most if not all guests, will give a gift and if you don’t want to receive an extensive collection of crystal bowls, a gift registry is the answer. Customarily, guests ask the bride’s mother to suggest gifts, but this is time consuming for mothers who are involved with the wedding planning, so a bridal registry takes care of gift enquiries nicely. Before choosing which stores to register with - do some research. Go shopping for information by visiting the stores you are interested in, talk with the sales people, and ask if they do gift wrapping (very handy for out of town guests). Since it’s unlikely that one store will have everything you wish to receive, it is perfectly OK to register in more than one place. As you browse, keep notes on which items you would like to receive. Registries are not just for the wedding itself. You can use your registry for both party and shower gifts.

be a

Great Guest Out of respect to the couple, reply to an invitation as promptly as possible. The bride and groom have a tremendous amount of planning and arranging ahead of them and need to begin as soon as possible. It is difficult to begin planning before the final guest list is in. A wedding is a highly planned affair and directed toward a specific number of people. Seating and meals are organized accordingly and an unexpected guest can be the proverbial ‘wrench in the gears’. Unless your invitation states “and guest” arrive alone. Be punctual. If the invitation states that the wedding is at 2:00, the timing is based on the assumption that everyone will be seated and ready for the bride to enter. That means arriving ten to fifteen minutes early. Turn off that cell phone. If your phone should ring just as the bride says “I do”, it will disrupt the ceremony and be embarrassing for you. Don’t take pictures during the ceremony. The flashing of bulbs and whirring of cameras is distracting and disrespects the seriousness of the moment. If possible, avoid bringing your gift to the wedding. Every gift that is brought in means one more item that someone has to remove and be responsible for. Short and simple are the key words for the receiving line. Bare in mind that there are a number of people in line behind you and this is no time to reminisce. Congratulate the couple and keep the line moving.

Register at least six to eight months before the wedding and be sure to include a wide price range with several items that carry a modest price tag. Frequently, engaged couples have a single large and probably more expensive item that they require and understand that several people will share the cost. In this case the parents of the couple should be informed. The first thing every guest asks is “Do you know what they want?” and your parents or representatives will know just how to answer. 178 banquet halls

Where there is love, there is life. Mahatma Gandhi

Indoor Weddings for up to 200 guests

Riverside Sportsmen Club

Outdoor Weddings for up to 400 guests

We would like to help you celebrate that important day luncheons showers rehearsal dinners catering services

10835 Riverside Dr., E. Windsor 519-735-3031 Ext: 13 riversidesportsmenclub@cogeco.net www.rscwindsor.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;saint nicholasâ&#x20AC;?

Macedonian Centre proudly serving the community for over

. parties . showers exceptional quality & service . affordable customized menu weddings

stags

accommodating

50 to 450 guests

5225 Howard Avenue, LaSalle | 519-966-6257

40 years

Chantelle Coulter 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

steve pomerleau photography

celebrate your love in the perfect setting

new reception hall with panoramic views of the vineyard . on-site wedding coordinator brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prep room . exclusive access to the entire grounds and two buildings up to 250 guests chef don offers menus to choose from or will help you create your own 7258 County Rd, S. Amherstburg | 519.738.9253 | weddings@sprucewoodshores.com | www.sprucewoodshores.com

space

Where Dream Weddings Come True

and lots of it

serving the community since 1949

Too many people in one room, too much clutter, shoes that have disappeared under a dresser. You can deal with being crowded, and the shoes will turn up eventually that’s not the real problem, it’s the pressured feeling that goes with it. Avoid adding to an already emotional day with a prep-room that would be suitable for a Tibetan Monk. Lots of space and nothing in it. Don’t worry, it will be westernized when your entourage arrives.

large & Small Weddings

You expect your photographer to find suitable backgrounds for your wedding photos, however for preproom photos they expect you to provide one. Pre-plan where to capture shots of the gown, jewellery etc., and keep the area clear so there is no need to move coats for the bouquet’s solo, or shift furniture for more space. That’s how the shoes ended up under the dresser.

267 Meunier St. Belle River . Hall: 519-728-1652 . Church: 519-728-3381 Cell: 519-566-7329 . dbowering@dol.ca . www.stsimonandstjudehall.ca

wiggle

room

When things take longer than expected, and you know there are 150 people waiting for you, a sense of panic can set in and that’s the last emotion you should be feeling on your wedding day. Plan your day’s schedule with lots of spare time to cover unexpected delays.

Torino

restaurant & banquet hall

catering for on and off premises 50 to

400 people .

excellent food

Personal Service Focusing on You

free parking

solarium

12049 Tecumseh Road, E. Windsor . 519-735-2522 . www.torinorestaurant.com 182 banquet halls

What’s the single best thing Couples can do to cut wedding costs without sacrificing luxury? by Dana Horwitz ~ Water’s Edge Event Centre

Most of the newlyweds I talked to loved the question, but even those who didn’t still wanted to think about it. In the end, couples felt that they could have saved money without skimping on quality by choosing a venue they didn’t have to go overboard to decorate. But would this change REALLY save newlyweds money? Aren’t the fancy, elegant venues more expensive? Wouldn’t that offset the amount of money saved with this change? “Couples can save money by eliminating the details they have to pay for out of pocket,” explains Dana Horwitz, owner of Water’s Edge Event Centre in Windsor. Water’s Edge Event Centre offers three boutique event venues, each unique and charming and at the same cost as competitors with venues where couples must decorate to the nines. Built in 1907, this historic, elegant space is perfect for weddings, social events, galas, corporate gatherings, memorials, and more. Services even include a team of culinary specialists for catering, a hospitality team, and venue coordinators for overseeing the stressful details, and eliminating the expensive, unnecessary ones. Water’s Edge addresses this issue by offering three venue options within their centre. The Grande Ballroom carries an old world vibe with high, sculpted ceilings and elegant pillars, perfect for large, upscale events. The White Room offers a blank canvas with an edge for couples that prefer a clean, natural backdrop. Outside, the Ivy Courtyard is perfect for outdoor weddings and receptions against the classic backdrop of the historic Centre’s draped ivy wall. Choosing a beautiful space without breaking your budget on decorating details means there are no added costs and no extra time needed to beautify the space for the wedding. “Another way we help couples save time and money on their wedding is including in-house catering and hospitality,” Horwitz advises. Water’s Edge events include catering options right at the event centre. The culinary team is made up of several local catering services that offer a wide range of dining options and layouts. Food is sourced locally and in season with all year round ingredients and specialized meal options are available for guests with dietary restrictions. In essence, the key to saving money without cutting into quality is to consolidate. Choose a beautiful space that includes catering options and a hospitality team to save money on the details of a wedding. For this reason, Water’s Edge offers wedding package options that cut costs by having all of the wedding events at the same place. For more information about Water’s Edge Event Centre, call 519-257-1983 or visit www.watersedgeeventcentre.ca. p Dana Horwitz is a transplanted New Yorker who calls Windsor her home for over 20 years. She tries to make newly engaged couples’ dreams come true every day, while drinking lots of coffee and juggling her husband of 25 years and their 5 lovely children. 184 banquet halls

His & Hers Wear and Bridal www.hisandhersbridal.com

favours as blessings Have you ever wondered where the custom of giving thoughtful little gifts to your guests came from? Again, this tradition dates back to ancient times with - who else - the Romans. A few centuries later, European custom dictated the giving of what today we call favours. Originally the favour would be some type of food and if the couple could afford it, chocolate. No longer the decadent treat of only the wealthy, today chocolate is affordable and always appreciated.

no appointments necessary

828 Ottawa St., Windsor . 519-977-0478 . nelly_semaan@yahoo.com

family feelings Your marriage represents the continuation of the family line, and by its nature holds more varying emotions than any other life event. When it comes to weddings, emotions run high and trivial misunderstandings can become areas of dispute. Reaching the alter without any hurt feelings along the way takes respect and understanding. Every family dynamic is different and only you know how your’s works, but you can’t go wrong when you do your best to respect your their wishes, and understand how much your marriage means to them.

Wealthy European aristocrats would give fine gems and precious stones wrapped in a metal box to their guests. Favours were not only a treat, they were intended to bestow blessings. The blessings are: Fertility, Wealth, Longevity, Health and Happiness. For a little fun, have tags with one of the blessings written on it and place them all into a large basket or bowl. Have your guests pull their favour to find out what their blessing is.

heads up

bridal designs NBD

nadia’s

celebrating 30 years

1531 & 1533 Ouellette Ave. Windsor 519-258-6252

nadiasbridal@bellnet.ca

John Lyons Weddings 188 bridal shops

Seeking the element of surprise, the couple opted to have pyrotechnics in their centerpieces, and at a predetermined moment the flowers erupted into a display of fireworks. There’s no telling how someone will react when they are startled. Some are mildly taken aback, other are screamers, but the screamers scare the wits out of their more relaxed counterparts, and in the end everyone experiences an unwelcome rush of adrenalin. Shrieks of alarm and guests knocking over chairs as they bolted for the door was not what the couple had in mind (true story). If your unique moment involves sudden loud noises accompanied by the lights going out, give everyone a heads up. You don’t lose the element of surprise because they still don’t know what’s coming, and no one will suffer heart palpitations. If you want to do something totally unexpected make it something less alarming.

1476 Tecumseh Road, E, Windsor . 519-258-1118 bridalcouture@hotmail.com . www.bridalcouture.ca

Known for our HUGE selection www.sophiesgownshoppe.com

A aisle amnesia

You were gathered with your bridesmaids making last minute adjustments, the music began, the doors opened... and that’s the last thing you can recall. Excitement combined with a little nervousness is a recipe for short term memory loss. Susceptible brides can make it from entrance to alter with no idea how they got there. After all the planning and anticipation leading up to this moment it would be a shame to space out and miss it. So how do you prevent aisle amnesia? Just before the ceremony begins take a few deep breaths, and focus your attention on the moment. The irony of aisle amnesia is that those who suffer it forgot to do the breathing exercise in the first place. Add ‘DEEP BREATHE’ to the bottom of your last minute list.

the first party Hosting your own engagement party? First give yourself time to enjoy being engaged, and lay the groundwork for the wedding before taking on the task of party planning. Anyone who is invited to the engagement party must also be invited to the wedding, so getting a handle on your budget and guest list before sending out the party invitations is imperative. It would be an embarrassment to invite someone to the engagement celebrations then discover you can’t invite them to the wedding.

Est. 1948

Windsor 519-974-3681 . 5970 Tecumseh Rd., E Mon. Tues. Fri. 10 - 6 . Wed. Thurs. 10 - 9 . Sat. 9 - 5 Sun. 12 - 4 (Jan. - Mar.) London 519-433-2865 . 517 York St. Mississauga 905-270-6200 . 2200 Dundas St. East Kitchener 519-745-8545 . 1780 King St. East 190 bridal shops

The engagement party is next week, the wedding is two years away, that seems like there’s lots of time to replenish the bank account. Don’t fall for it. Today or two years from today, it all comes under the heading of wedding expense. Bringing gifts to an engagement party is a some do, some don’t situation. Put the gifts aside and open them in private so it doesn’t embarrass those who came without. An engagement party gift and a wedding gift... hmm. That can get expensive. Protect them from sticker shock by registering for some modestly priced items.

At your engagement party serve cookies with your wedding date on them.

5862 Wyandotte St E, Windsor . 226-246-2664 . www.bellabridalwindsor.com

Custom Designs for You and YourWedding Party

ara d e s i g n s

Boutique & Alterations

Create Your Dream Gown...

956 Howard Ave., Windsor 226-674-1551 . C: 519-890-6556 Find us on Facebook zaradesignswindsor@gmail.com

for fun Prepare a table with slips of paper and pencils and a basket to place notes in. As guest arrive have them write down their most endearing memory of the bride or groom and read them aloud at the reception.

192 bridal shops

Wedding Shoes Purchase both your wedding and honeymoon shoes well before the big day and use this time to break them in. Many brides have had their day ruined by painful shoes and removing them may spoil the line of your gown. Slippery new shoes on a polished floor is a disaster waiting to happen. Scuff up those soles. I know it sounds like a odd thing to do your precious wedding shoes but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better than the (potential) alternative. If you just canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bear the thought of damaging your shoes in any way, put a strip of duct tape on the soles to reduce slipping. Your shoes not only complement your gown but must also accommodate your surroundings. Wearing stiletto heels on a lawn makes walking difficult and awkward, but you will do a nice job of aerating the grass. Make sure those lovely new shoes are broken in and completely comfortable and you will be dancing the night away!

To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides. David Viscott

Making dreams come true since 1986 Michelle & Michael ~ July 31, 2016 www.chaletstudio.ca

to display or not to display Second only to the bride, guests anticipate the cake. It will be the most elaborate and expensive cake you will ever purchase, and you have to make the difficult choice of how it will be revealed. Openly displayed, your guests can gather around it to admire its beauty and get to know each other while speculating on its taste Choice two is the ‘hidden till the last minute - dramatic entrance’ method. The lights dim, the DJ plays a specially chosen melody, the doors open and your masterpiece makes it’s debut to everyone’s delight. Tough call.

Purchase with us and no Alteration Charge Gown Preservation next door at Kennedy's Cleaners

Here Comes The Bride bridal boutique

Caren & Doug ~ August 6, 2016 www.blushphotos.ca

33 Talbot Street., E, Leamington . 519.326.4121 www.herecomesthebride.ca bridal shops 193

Serving South Western Ontario available weekdays evenings weekends & holidays Brogan & Jesse ~ October 31, 2016 www.chaletstudio.ca

take the

night off

wedding ceremonies by

Deanna Reid

519-326-8463 or cell: 519-322-9509 reidd@xplornet.ca | Like us on Facebook

There are no rules dictating when rehearsal dinners should be held, but somehow they landed in the night before time slot. Usually planned with an early evening in mind, it seldom works out that way. Excitement and anticipation have a way of stretching the party into the wee hours, and in the morning couples suffer the puffy eyed, queasy stomach consequences. If this sounds like it could be your tale of woe, don’t take any chances and hold the dinner two or three days before. When night-before celebrations are unavoidable you have to muster up your intestinal fortitude and leave early. It won’t be easy, but it beats yawning at the head table.

rose city wedding services officiants

Nicole Vallance Photography

Christian b Contemporary b Civil

“I Do!” Your Way ~ Your Day

Rev. Lynne Boudreau . Rev. Irene Clark-Carroll 1843 Clover Ave., Windsor . Office: 519-735-6190 Cell: 519-817-1658 . iclarkcarroll@yahoo.com . www.rosecitywedding.ca 194 celebrants

ushers - groomsmen what’s the difference? Not a lot really. Ushers assist and seat guests as they arrive, and during the ceremony they remain by the entrance to direct late arrivals while groomsmen take centre stage beside the groom. The terms are often used interchangeably as are their duties. Regardless of their title, standing by the groom as he makes his vows is the only thing they practiced, so now what do they do? They know about having fun at the reception (instinct) but the groom’s guys may not be clear on what else is expected of them. To put it in a nutshell ‘crowd control’. Their duties begin with seating guests in the appropriate places, reminding them to turn off their cell phones and directing parents with crying babies to an anteroom. Throughout the reception they need to be on hand to answer questions, chat with guests, and occasionally keep the peace by intervening in alcohol induced conflicts. With about one usher for every 25 guests, they are secondary hosts constantly on the lookout for anyone in need of assistance, directions or an umbrella.

The Candy Store... for cooks

Williams FOOD EQUIPMENT.com

Our gift to you a $25 Gift Card upon registry ~

largest selection of: knives . glassware . cookware . bakeware wine accessories . peppermills . kitchen gadgets . and much more!

Shop Where the Professionals Shop 2150 Ambassador Dr., Windsor | 519-969-1919 or 1-888-334-3233 | williamsfoodequipment.com

Tablesettings

& more rentals

& Fancy Designs by JC

elegant . unique . affordable . memorable

76 Erie Street, North, Leamington | By Appointment | 519-326-8354 or 519-996-0685 tablesettingsandmore@sympatico.ca | www.tablesettingsandmorerentals.ca

Clasys

Professional Wedding and Events Design and Decor

Endless possibilities... Excellence is not just our goal, it is our commitment. 3473 Walker Rd., Windsor . 519-800-8422 . info@clasys.ca . www.clasys.ca . Like us on Facebook

New Designs

Brandon Scott Photography

flowers & gifts

Making Fairytale weddings come true for over 25 years ceremony and venue decor ~ one of a kind bridal bouquets and centerpieces certified florist and event planner on staff 23 Division St., N, Kingsville | 519-733-2365 | 800-265-7561 | newdesigns@bellnet.ca | www.newdesigns.ca

beyond the music

From the wedding ceremony to the reception, music sets the mood and allows you to express your feelings. Choose your entertainment as carefully as you would choose your caterer or photographer. From the ceremony to the last dance there should be emotion, excitement and fun. Well planned music will ensure that your guests have a wonderful time and remember your wedding’s beauty and celebration.

Stephanie & Andrew ~ July 16, 2016 www.trevorboothphotography.ca

Music professionals do more than you may know. They have a personal interest in making your wedding a success and are knowledgeable in providing the right music at the right time. From soft dinner music to high energy dance music, they understand that the proper mix and presentation makes all the difference in creating a truly memorable event. Their goal is to keep your guests entertained and encourage them to participate in the joy of your day. Professionals will understand the acoustics of the rooms in which you will be holding your ceremony and reception. Music that sounds perfect in your home will not necessarily sound as good in a large room with many people. Professionals will assure that your day be customized to your requirements and they can take requests from your family and guests. Offering a variety of music they will be able to adapt the music to suit the mood of your guests. They are experienced in judging what your guests are enjoying and will make adjustments throughout the evening.

Lauren & Joey ~ October 25, 2016 www.chaletstudio.ca 200 disc jockey

At most weddings one side of the room doesn’t know anyone on the other side of the room but if your wedding guests are given the chance to mix and mingle your day will be more successful. This is where your entertainment company comes in. Find a professional who is experienced in entertaining guests and has methods of getting them together. From ‘change partner dances’ to games and props your professional should know how to keep your celebration moving.

Congratulations to our

Bride of the Month Winners

January Dallis & Wayne ~ Arva Erwin Loewen Photography

February Anne & Paul ~ Springfield Danny Stuckless Photography

March Caitlin & Michael

April Rachel & Nathan ~Windsor Lidya Denisa Wedding Photographer

May Meaghan & Dan Windsor

June Maggie & Jacob ~ Windsor Steve Pomerleau Photography

July Brooke & Jeremy ~ Windsor Nicole Vallance Photography

August Sarah & Mitchell ~ Chatham Melissa Avey Photography

September Christie & Jeff ~ Windsor

October Kelsey & Jonathan ~ Chatham Lens on Life Photographic Expressions

November Jessica & Gary ~ Amherstburg McKenzie Dirkson Photography

December Ailish & Jordan ~ December 10, 2016 www.blushphotos.ca

202

Brooke & Alex ~ October 22, 2016 www.chaletstudio.ca

Nancy & Will ~ August 14, 2016 www.blushphotos.ca

“Uniquely Designed with you in mind”

Simona’s & flowers

home accents

Fresh and Artificial Flowers From Simply Elegant to tastefully Elaborate We turn special moments into memorable occasions

Simona Lehan – Owner/Designer

164 Talbot St., East Leamington 519-326-0750 or 1-800-746-6627 simona@simonasflowers.com www.simonasflowers.com 204 florists

Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking together in the same direction

let love bloom

Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Wedding Day Florals Fit for a Dream 1552 Tecumseh Rd., E. Windsor 519-253-1123 1-888-451-6696 . sales@iandf.com . www.iandf.com

Where creativity flourishes

vintage to elegant classic to modern Krissy Thiessen & Design Team 400 Talbot St.,E. Leamington . 519- 326-5282 office@thiessenflowers.com . www.thiessenflowers.com florists 205

salon 5975 Malden Road, LaSalle 519-967-1666 www.salonattitude.webs.com

“if your hair is wrong, your entire life is wrong.” Morrissey

Also offering: Make-up Organic Airbrush Tanning

Miro & Denika February 4, 2017 Emil Beles Photography

when it comes to hair... It’s all about Attitude! by Marylou Misener ~ Salon Attitude When designing the salon, I envisioned a place where our clients/friends could feel a sense of elegance, in a fresh yet modern atmosphere. I wanted something different... a breath of fresh air, a place where our clients/friends could leave with that “It’s All About Attitude feel and look great Attitude".We have been established for 14 years and going strong. We believe in building a strong relationship with our clients/friends taking the time to find out what kind of look they would like, how long they spend on their hair and what is important to them. Salon Attitude offers clients/friends all amenities of a full service hair salon specializing in cutting, hair colouring, wedding and a special occasions styling and hair rejuvenation treatments. The salon also has a large selection of products used by trained and certified technicians. We thrive on what makes you look your best no matter what life throws your way... Located 5975 Malden Road, LaSalle. Visit our website www.salonattitude.webs.com

1695 Manning Rd., Tecumseh . 519-956-9283 dryparlourinc@gmail.com . www.dryparlourinc.com 206 hair salons

One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: That word is love. Sophocles

Beautiful

Images

Aesthetics & Hair Day Spa

body hair nails skin makeup

anna grandi-pase, aesthetician/owner

makeup artist for cover bride renalyn

photograph by chalet studio

1040 Erie St. E. | 519-254-9929 | annagrandi@sympatico.ca | www.beautifulimagesspa.com

perfection

deserves one last glance

tips A little smudge. Keep some white chalk handy. You will be amazed at how well it covers mudges. Perils of pollen. Flowers have pollen which can easily get on your gown. If it does, shake or blow it off gently. If you try to rub it off it will leave a stain. A little chip. Even the most professional manicure can chip. Be sure to purchase a bottle of matching polish and keep it in your emergency kit.

decide today how tomorrow looks

Lipstick can mark your veil. It has become more common not to wear a veil over the face, so if you like bright red lipstick it may be best to put your best face forward and keep the veil back.

clear, healthy, radiant skin

RODAN + FIELDS Independent Consultant Nada Burton . 519-965-2397 chrisnadaburton@sympatico.ca www.nburton1.myrandf.com/ca Christine & Derek ~ July 30, 2016 www.trevorboothphotography.ca

Julia & Johnny ~ May 14, 2016 www.chaletstudio.ca

208

Annalisa & Leo ~ September 9, 2016 www.trevorboothphotography.ca

Invitations

Send out your invitations as early as possible. Eight weeks before would be a good minimum. Spell out names and dates - don’t use short forms. If your Aunt Kate’s proper name is Katherine, that’s what you use. Always use the word ‘and’ rather than a ‘&’. Your invitations convey the first sense of what style of wedding you are having. If you send a very formal invitation your guests may assume the wedding is formal also. Imagine their surprise when they arrive in formal attire only to find that the wedding is a relaxed, non-formal event. Include maps for your out-of-town guests. Keep a list of your guests RSVP’s and check off each one as they come in. It will be impossible to keep a mental account of who is coming and who is not. Also, there will be some guests who are planning to come but have forgotten to send their reply. Check your list for outstanding RSVP’s and it is perfectly proper to contact the missing replies and give them a reminder. It’s a good idea to number your RSVP’s. Use a pencil and put the number on the back of each one. Keep a corresponding list with the guests names and RSVP number. Some of your RSVP’s may come back without the name filled in and your list will solve the problem.

Special Touches As your guests exit their cars and enter your wedding reception site, welcome them with beautiful surroundings. If possible, you should consider having decorations such as flowers or candles in the entry area and if the reception room is not directly visible, be sure to have a sign letting your guests know where they are to go. Provide a schedule for your guests. You don’t want anyone to miss the special moments of your wedding. The schedule should include information on when the wedding party will arrive, special toasts, cutting the cake, first dance, the tossing of the bouquet and any other special moments you may have planned for your wedding day. You want your reception to be everything you have ever dreamed of, and so do the professionals at your banquet hall. If you listen to them and take their advice your wedding reception will be as perfect as it possibly can.

offering a wide array of products and services

Elizabeth R

F i n e S tat i o n e r y & G i f t s 3851 Dougall Avenue, Windsor 519.250.4182 . info@elizabethr.ca . www.elizabethr.ca invitations 209

happy couple!

bottle of Jack Daniels or even a magnum of champagne, but wine is about the couple. It’s impossible to say when or where wine and When Jesus turned water into wine, he did it at a wedding. weddings began their long partnership, but it probably started with Both a miracle, and indication of wine’s central role in marriage the first Homo sapien who accidentally stepped on a grape. celebrations. Representing the blessings of good fortune and Etiquette tells us not to raise our glass when being toasted. If you prosperity, toasting the newlyweds is a worldwide tradition that do it becomes the same as toasting yourself. Stain protection tells is at the same time very personal. There’s nothing personal in a us to drink white wine in case of a spill.

here’s to the

25 Amy Croft Dr., Unit 14A, Lakeshore . 519-735-9002 . www.goldstarjewelers.ca 210

with this ring... Your wedding bands don’t have to match. Many couples prefer to have similar rings but if your tastes don’t match it’s perfectly acceptable to choose more personalized styles. An engagement ring will consist of two parts, the stone and the setting. It is a good idea to choose the style and setting of a ring before choosing the stone. It doesn’t have to be only a diamond. Gemstones such as emeralds and rubies always make beautiful settings complementing the diamond. You can personalize your rings forever by having them engraved. Favourite words of love, the date of your first meeting, engagement or wedding make wonderful mementos of those special moments in your life.

tips What is the best thing to do with your engagement ring during the ceremony? Since the wedding ring goes on first, your engagement ring must be removed for the ceremony. You can wear the engagement ring on your right hand, or before the ceremony, give your engagement ring to your maid of honour. She will have it handy so you can slip it on afterward.

Solitaire Always A Classic

Sometimes your fingers may tend to get a little puffy when you are nervous or it is humid. Just before the ceremony, rub a little clear lip balm onto the knuckle of your ring finger. This will ensure that your groom can slide the ring right onto your finger without any hassle! 25 Amy Croft Dr., Unit 14A, Lakeshore 519-735-9002 . www.goldstarjewelers.ca jewellers 211

“In Passionate Pursuit of the Perfect Party” www.limosbymrjs.com Limos by

Essex County’s Largest Limousine Service

519-250-8099

Cell: 519-796-8106

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. Pay attention to 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 of 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 a catering 214

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 come 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. 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. p

Royal

limousines

experience elegance

All Wedding Packages

The Royal Package

You will receive white glove service with one of our highly trained chauffeurâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Royal limo has always put the customer first to make their day extraordinary. There is no limit to how many stops you make during your time with us, and we do not charge extra for weddings in Essex County. Complementary champagne included.

Is the ultimate pampering. It includes all standard amenities plus unlimited use of the limo for the day, including champagne, orange juice and muffins in the morning, plus complimentary latenight pick-up for the bride and groom.

windsorlimos@gmail.com . 519-254-0001 . www.royallimousinesofwindsor.com

State of the art vehicles to accommodate your entire wedding party.

no purse - no pockets

what’s a girl to do?

You’ve seen it in movies many times. She isn’t carrying a purse, so she asks her date to put a few things in his pocket. It’s a funny scene because guys secretly hate this, but since bridesmaids don’t carry purses the groomsmen’s pockets are up for grabs. A few tissues in the event of tears, a small mirror for the bride, or some breath mints for the receiving line all come under the heading of emergency items, and no guy will object to helping out, but his pockets have to be limited to bare necessities.

Luxury Coaches

How do you know when his burden is too bulky? When it interferes with the lines of his suit. Groomsmen don’t want to look like they have a Colt 45 in one pocket and lunch in the other. They also don’t want to be responsible for your belongings any longer than necessary. Retrieve everything ASAP.

the gap

www.badderbus.com Serving Windsor/Essex . 519-776-4358 1-800-668-1974 . jimb@badderbus.com

To be honest, waiting for the ceremony to begin can be really boring. You can only read the program so many times and the mandatory lowering of voices makes conversation difficult. So you wait, and check out the building’s architecture, while Grandpa dozes off. Congratulations to any savvy couple who has the foresight to fill the gap with a slide show. Not everyone will know where the groom grew up or when you met. A slide show will bring them up to speed, hold their interest, and keep them awake.

Jaclyn & Michael October 15, 2016 www.blushphotos.ca

The heart has its reasons which reason knows not. Blaise Pascal

216 limousines/coaches

beyond the booze As a nondrinker who has attended countless weddings I would like to make an observation. Those who abstain are frequently overlooked in the refreshment department. There’s always lots of wine and liquor but where’s the iced tea for us tea-totalers? I don’t know the statistics on what percentage of the population doesn’t drink, but I’m willing to bet that at most weddings, when you factor in younger crowd, it’s at least 25%. That means one in four guests is usually restricted to canned soft drinks and water.

As nondrinkers we are generally well behaved, you never have to worry about how we’re getting home, and in the end help cut down the bar bill, so in my humble opinion we deserve better. We would be delighted so see some alcohol free wine or punch, real lemonade or even flavoured waters, and how about a nonalcoholic version of your signature cocktail? Most importantly, while Pepsi is my raison d’etre, the can doesn’t flatter my new Alfred Sung.

tips for your wedding PHOTOs When having your reception photographed or video taped, let your photographer know who to contact in case of any questions. Remember your photographer does not know your families so designate someone who knows your family well (both families if possible) to be available to your photographer. Let all of your guests know that the wedding is going to be photographed. Everyone prefers to know that videos or pictures are being taken. Getting everyone together for group shots can be frustrating and time consuming. Ask a friend to begin gathering all those involved together well ahead of time and be responsible for keeping them that way. Browse magazines and cut out photographs you particularly like, so when you meet with your photographer you will have the perfect way to convey what you have in mind. Make notes on who you would like to be photographed with. In the excitement of the wedding you may forget an old friend or favourite uncle.

daylight Winter weddings offer spectacular photo settings, they also offer the least amount of time to capture them. In mid winter, light starts to fade around 3:30 taking your photo ops with it. Give your photographer a chance to get some great outdoor shots by starting your day early. 218 photographers

leap year Folklore claims that every four years on February 29th it becomes a woman’s right to propose. In early English law the 29th had no legal recognition, and traditions could be set aside for the day, so it was socially acceptable for a woman to pop the question. If your guy is dragging his proposal heels it may be up to you to take advantage of this old custom, but you will have to wait until 2020. Sorry.

Nobody has ever measured, not even poets, how much the heart can hold. Zelda Fitzgerald

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

2016 windsor/essex cover contest Winners’ trip Farrah & Thomas

The only thing more perfect than our wedding, was our honeymoon trip to Iberostar Laguna Azul in Varadero, Cuba. Our room was situated in the most perfect spot! We were far enough away from the hustle and bustle but still on the main floor of the hotel lobby, so getting food and drinks were just steps away. Our room had a great balcony, and a stocked mini fridge with sodas, water, and beer. The poolside had a great view and it was always fun to use the swim-up bar! There was always a snack bar that was opened 24 hours, which made it easy to have a light snack at the pool or at the beach at any time of the day. The daily buffet always had great variety. We did two excursions on our trip, which were booked with the help of Angela, our onsite Transat representative. We chose a full day Havana tour where we saw Revolution Square, the hotel that Ernest Hemmingway lived in for seven years, and enjoyed Cuba's amazing Tropicana night show. On our second excursion, we rode on a Catamaran to the beautiful Cayo Blanco beach. We tried the most delicious lobster tails, swam in the clearest water, and soaked up some sun in the whitest sand. We swam with the dolphins and got kissed by the best-looking Cuban around, Chubby the dolphin! Overall, this vacation made our whole wedding experience perfect. We owe a big ‘thank you’ to Transat, Travel Agents in Action and Bridal Confidential.

Susan . www.foreverpreciousmemories.com . seliuk@TAIA.ca

travel 223

the time of year you go. Helpful hints about excursions, must do and see sights and how to navigate around are also things travel consultants can help with. It is a trip for both the bride and groom so consideration should be given to the likes and dislikes of both people. Try to pick a place where there is something of interest to do but also down time. If one person likes to just veg by the beach or pool and the other is more adventurous choose a honeymoon location that offers a nice mix of activities and relaxation.

“Your honeymoon and destination wedding specialist”

online Bridal Registry

1499 Ouellette Avenue, Windsor 519-252-3331 or 1-800-953-2875 valentetravel.com

travel

Savvy

by Betty LaSalle ~ LaSalle Travel

When it comes to planning your honeymoon there are many important aspects to consider. First and foremost determine what your budget will be. Secondly be realistic in what you can do with that budget. This is where consulting an experienced travel agent can be very valuable. There is something out there for every pocketbook, just don’t think you go to Tahiti for Cuba prices! Travel agents can also give advice about entry requirements, desired locations in the destination you choose and weather conditions at

Your wedding or honeymoon should be as unique as you are.

LaSalle Travel Services 5841 Malden Rd., Ste. 118, La Salle | 519-972-5588 1-800-381-9969 lstravel@mnsi.net www.lasalletravel.ca TICO # 04503728 224 travel services

Another consideration is when to book. If you are going to a place that has an overabundance of hotel rooms you can afford to wait until a bit closer to departure. If on the other hand you are looking to go somewhere where rooms are extremely limited making your reservation 6 to 8 months ahead of time is wise. Many times honeymooners want to try to pack in too much in their allotted time away. Europe is a perfect example of this. Yes, you have two weeks and all these wonderful cities seem close together so why not try to see it all? Doing too much can be exhausting and every time you move from place to place increases the price. Travel days take up a better part of the day as well. Consider a more leisurely pace and give yourselves time to just enjoy each other and relax. You have your whole life to go again and visit your ‘must see’ spots. Pick your top three or four destinations and ask a travel consultant to see if they can be put together easily and reasonably. Their research and planning resources are invaluable and will make it simple for you. A honeymoon should be one of the most wonderful vacation experiences of your life. It should be special and unique to the both of you. The moments you will share on your honeymoon should capture the start of your new life together. You will discover a new place or places as well as new things about each other on the journey. Choose wisely so that you will have that perfect, romantic and magical honeymoon you have always dreamed about! p

why gold? The world’s economy depends on it. The wealth of nations is measured by it. It will never rust, can never be destroyed, and yet is so pliable it can be used as sewing thread. A single ounce can be stretched more than 50 miles. We reward our heros with it, wear it, treasure it, and even eat it. Unlike other precious metals and gems, gold is not a product of the Earth. Essentially, it was created in a supernova, projected into space, and deposited on our still forming planet. With enough time the earth will produce more diamonds, emeralds and amber, but there will never be more gold. Chemically, gold is know by Au which stands for ‘aurum’ in Latin, meaning ‘shining dawn’. It never irritates the skin (unless it has been mixed with other metals), and because of its conductivity, matches your body’s temperature. It has been discovered on every continent, there are over 400 references to it in the Bible, and the San Francisco 49rs are named after the Gold Rush of 1849. Pure gold is so soft it can be molded with the hands, and even if buried for thousands of years it will never lose it’s shine.

Bronze $160 Vintners Reserve World Vineyard Silver $190 Selection Wine Gold $210 Eclipse

all wedding packages include 23 lt of wine, 30 – 750 ml bottles (green or clear), corks, personalized labels (picture labels available at an extra cost), winery fees and taxes 2567 Jefferson Blvd. Windsor 519-251-9463 info@fromvinetowine.ca www.fromvinetowine.ca

looking for a great wedding favour? Simply add $30 to any wedding package and receive 60 – 375ml bottles instead.

Gold is a souvenir of one of the most powerful events in the history of our universe, and in the form of a ring, it represents lasting love and devotion. Little wonder that we have chosen gold to represent the promise of eternity.

wine and tradition From christening ships to toasting the happy couple, wine represents the blessing of good luck and prosperity. The serving of wine is an old tradition and a wedding without wine would be like a day without sunlight, so this is one tradition you will want to follow.

wine making 225

by Tanya Mitchell, Co-owner and Winemaker. Sprucewood Shores is the absolute picture-perfect vineyard site for your wedding location. Immerse yourself in the beauty of its unique architecture with exclusive access to the entire property and all the nature that surrounds it. The charming and rustic buildings are surrounded by panoramic views of the vineyard, a breathtaking sandy beach on Lake Erie, glittering ponds, and luscious gardens. The new reception hall with its warm exposed timber ceilings and its ability to accommodate weddings and events up to 250 guests, boasts an elegant and welcoming charm that completes the true feeling of a vineyard wedding.

“Having our halls and our entire property available to the couples for the night gives them the flexibility to host their ceremony in a different space then their reception, yet all being in one location. The spaces we have here for indoor pictures are breathtaking and endless in our barrel room, atrium, balconies, panoramic window views, and more. Visit our website at www. sprucewoodshores.com/photographs/weddings to view photos of our unparalleled scenery. The vineyard reception hall 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.

Host your ceremony, reception, and pictures all in one place, surrounded by the natural beauty of the vines and beachfront. With access to the entire property, one is able to plan and experience the most ultimate wedding all in one exclusive location. 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. The reception hall is 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 full yearround air comfort control system. The design has now extended wedding season well into the winter months. Winter weddings are a big hit here at Sprucewood Shores as there are multiple breathtakingly beautiful indoor spaces for ceremonies and photo’s alike.

Winery Weddings at Sprucewood Shores are intimate and private celebrations, each one individually tailored to reflect every couple’s unique and creative vision. When you plan your wedding with us, you work in conjunction with our onsite wedding specialists who will be there to guide you every step of the way. Sprucewood is delighted to offer more options to clients that are interested in hosting other events, such as baby or bridal showers, birthdays, retirement parties, anniversaries, and corporate events. Our event coordinators will be delighted to organize your event and be onsite the day of to ensure that it is executed perfectly.

7258 County Road 50W, Amherstburg Tanya Mitchell 519-738-9253 . weddings@sprucewoodshores.com

Plan your Perfect Day

the Perfect Wine the Perfect Setting

the Perfect Evening savour the flavour of the island wedding venue ~ wine ~ special labels 455 Seacliff Dr., Kingsville . County Rd. 20 519-733-6551 . 1-800-597-3533 events@peleeisland.com . www.peleeisland.com

London/St. Thomas accommodations Benmiller Inn & Spa 27 Clock Tower Inn 72 Courtyard Marriott 22 Double Tree by Hilton inside front cover & 135 Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites 22 Homewood Suites by Hilton 23 Ramada Inn London 27 Retro Suites 1 alterations Safa Tailor’s Alterations & Dry Cleaning 41 bakeries Angelo’s Bakery

banquet halls Benmiller Inn & Spa 27 Clock Tower Inn 72 Delta Hotels London Armouries 30 Dorchester Golf Club 26 Double Tree by Hilton inside front & 35 Fanshawe Pioneer Village 38 German Canadian Club 28 Highland Country Club 3, 39 Ingersoll Golf Club 38 Kettle Creek Golf & Country Club 37 London Wedding Garden 36 Masonic Centre of Elgin 32 Mocha Shrine Centre 29 Pine Knot Golf & Country Club 34 The Berkshire Club 36 The Wave Restaurant and Bar 14 & 46 West Haven Golf & Country Club 28 Willow Creek Events 31 Windermere Manor 33 bachelor/bachelorette parties Adrenaline Paint Ball 20 Clock Tower Inn 72 The Wave Restaurant and Bar 14 & 46 bridal accessories Touch of Heart

bridal registry Bed Bath & Beyond The Bay

43 45

bridal shops Garber’s Bridal It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique Once Upon A Time Weddings Savvy Bridal Consignment Boutique Sophie’s Gown Shoppe

41 40 42 40 5

230