Bridal Fantasy Magazine 2007- Part 2 by Bridal Fantasy Group

Tips for Buying Your Rings Out of all the preparations you make for your wedding, purchasing your wedding rings is arguable the most important. Because unlike your gown or invitations, you will be seeing your rings every day for the rest of your lives. Here are some pointers to help you make the right purchase.

Start early – and do your homework – give yourself at least two months before the wedding to start shopping for your rings. If you wait until the last minute, you might regret your decision and you want to make sure you both love your rings. Engraving can take up to a full month. Be sure to take plenty of time to look at different styles, and different stores. Decided which type of metal and band designs suit you and shop around! Most stores understand that you will be making multiple visits to re-examine ones you really liked.

Set aside at least 2% of your total wedding budget – gold bands are considerable less expensive than platinum, they start around $200 with platinum starting prices around $700. If you start adding extras like engraving, diamonds and fancy designs to price will go way up. Choose white gold instead of platinum to save some cash. Another option would be a his-and-hers matching set. If you can’t afford the rings you have your hearts set on right now, get simple ones and upgrade on your fifth anniversary.

Delight in the details – details like finish can turn a classic or plain band into something really special. Consider all of your finishing options and engraving details. In most cases, these touches can be applied, removed and changed easily, so the commitment isn’t huge, giving even the simplest of rings huge possibilities.

Stay away from trends – look at it like this: your wedding band is something that is going to be on your hand forever. Whatever you decide, make sure the design and styles are something you will be able to enjoy for 5, 10 even 50 years down the road. This is especially true for guys. Remember, it might look fantastic with your current wardrobe, but will it match those plaid golf pants and sweater vest in 2058?

Matching is optional – a lot of people think the bride and groom should get matching wedding bands but this isn’t necessary. You might have completely different ideas on what looks good on your hand, so pick the ring you like! If you would like something that matches, try picking rings that share certain features, like rings with a mix of metals but with a different decoration on each.

Size does matter – between the nerves and the heat at the altar, there is a good possibility that your fingers will swell up on your wedding day. Get your rings sized well in advance. Don’t finalize your ring size in the morning, after exercise or when you’re really hot or cold. Avoid a tight squeeze and plan ahead by trying on the rings one last tie the day before your wedding.

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BF Bridesmaids

Bridesmaids’ Fashion… Fun & Funky Quick! Look in the back of your closet. How many old bridesmaid dresses are in the corner? Always a bridesmaid, never a bride. Many women have a closet full of taffeta Cinderella dresses they would never wear again. However, designers are finally creating gowns that double as cocktail or black tie function attire. Look for quality construction, fine fabrics, timeless design with the ability to mix and match separates so each bridesmaid can look great and have a useful gown after. The bridesmaid dress is an area for delicate negotiation. Finding a gown that works for everyone in your party takes some give-and-take from everyone. Be considerate…while it is an honour to be asked it does cost money so talk to your attendants about a budget and stick to it. Etiquette states that bridesmaids pay for their own gowns. You want your friends to look amazing so your pictures look fantastic. All the bridesmaids do not have to look alike. Many brides consider styles and colours that look good on their friends. Ask yourself…would I wear that? Have a brainstorming session, plan a shopping date and include your friends. Remember to find a look that’s fun, funky and can be worn again. Elegant simplicity has now assumed priority in the realm of bridesmaid gown styles. Now the gown is often used many times.

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Merry Maids

Dress: Denilore Bridal

Dress: Wedding World Dress: Bridal Debut

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All Hair and Makeup by Pure Elements Salon & Spa

Dress: Brides International Dress: Denilore Bridal

Show Stopping

Color

Dress: Brides International Hair & makeup by Pure Elements Salon & Spa

Dress: Wedding World Hair & makeup by Pure Elements Salon & Spa Flowers: Kuhlmannâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Floral Boutique

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The Color Purple

Dresses: Denilore Bridal All Hair & makeup by Pure Elements Salon & Spa

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Dress: Bridal Debut

YOUR BRIDAL PARTY Choosing your bridal party is no laughing matter. Use these tips to help make your selection process a breeze. Remember, the sooner you choose your bridal party, the sooner you can take another item off your checklist!

Size does Matter One of the first things to think about when choosing your bridal party is how many guests you’re planning on. Bridal parties can range from a single maid/matron of honour to a dozen attendants; most weddings experts agree that a good rule of thumb is one groomsman and bridesmaid for every 50 guests. However, this doesn’t mean you have to ask a stranger to be in your wedding party because your fiancé has one more attendant than you do. You can have an uneven number of groomsmen to bridesmaids. A large wedding party traditionally

Dress: Wedding World All Hair & Makeup: Pure Elements Salon & Spa

signifies a formal wedding, so if you’re planning a more intimate gathering, ten bridesmaids may be a little over the top.

More isn’t always Merrier Remember that the more bridesmaids you have, the greater potential there is for complications. You will need to get more people to agree on a dress, colour, or the shower date. If you’re on a limited budget, think about who has to pay for all those bouquets. That’s right – you.

Dress: Denilore Bridal Dress: Brides International

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Blood is Thicker than Water If you are close to your sister or soon-to-be sister-in-law, the thought of not including them in your weddings probably never crossed your mind. But if the thought of asking them to be a bridesmaid ranks up there with getting your first bikini wax, think about it this way: it’s usually worth including family members just to avoid unnecessary conflict. It can usually get you more bargaining power when you’re battling with the moms over the guest list.

No “Paybacks” You don’t need to ask someone to be in your wedding just because you were in hers. Don’t ask the college roommate you haven’t spoken to in five years just to return the favour. Weddings are no time for quid pro quo – period.

Location is Key What are you going to be expecting from your bridesmaids? Will simple moral support be all you ask for or do you expect them to be involved in all the aspects? Will they be addressing invitations and wrapping ribbon? If it’s the latter, maybe think twice about asking friends who live far away or have extremely hectic schedules. You don’t want to end up being frustrated with a friend when you knew they wouldn’t be able to give you all the help you needed.

Don’t Assume Try not to make any hasty assumptions. Don’t not ask someone because you don’t think they can afford the

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dress you have your heart set on. If you know they are having some financial difficulties, make sure you let her know, and that is the reason you didn’t ask her. (Or you can offer to pay her way if you just can’t stand the thought of her not being in your wedding.)

Guys Count A bridesmaid does not have to be a woman. Even though we use a lot of feminine references in here, if your best friend is a guy there is no reason why he can’t be in your wedding. Many brides (and grooms) are including members of the opposite sex in their party. A man on the bride’s side is called an attendant or bridesman, and a woman on the groom’s side is called an attendant or groomswoman.

Other Honours Don’t forget – if you are still stuck there are plenty of other honours your friends and family can do to still be a part of your wedding. A reading, hand out programs, ushers, MC, perform a song or play an instrument.

Spread the News Once you have made up your mind and picked your party, make sure everyone knows. The only thing worse than the person who thinks they are invited to your wedding is the friend who assumed she was going to be in your wedding party. If you are afraid of hurting someone’s feelings, remember, any true friend will understand your final decision (as cheesy as it sounds).

Fantastic Favours Giving your guests wedding favours will never be passé but spending hundreds of dollars on a throwaway gift is. You want to bestow a lasting impression with favours that are absolutely fabulous and won’t break the budget. Not sure when or how to distribute your favours? You can hand them out the traditional way, by putting them at each place setting or on a table for when your guests are leaving the reception. Or you can make them the center of attention by instructing your wait staff to hand out the favours on trays before the meal or between courses.

Don’t be afraid to make your favours personal! They can be inspired by the season you are getting married in, the setting or your own personal obsessions. Are you a huge fan of BBQ? Make some jars of homemade sauce with your initials monogrammed on them. This is also a great way to show your guests how you and your honey met. Share your love of coffee or tea houses with gift cards to your favourite shop or the place you had your first date. Are there going to be a lot of guests coming in from out-of-town? Instead of doing favours, put welcome bags in their

hotel rooms before they start arriving. Include a itinerary of the weekend and nourishing items your guests will really appreciate after a day of travelling – things like water, nuts or even something sweet. Whether it is a do-it-yourself gift, like tiny potted plants from a nursery or a decadent treat like chocolate truffles, make sure it is something personable and memorable. Finish off your favours with a quote, poem or picture that is special to the two of you.

Glass Placecard Holder A favour that pulls double duty! At your wedding it will add shine to your table as a placecard holder. Invite your guests to take it home and use it to hold a wedding picture of the bride and groom. Send the photo to your guests with a thank you card after the wedding. Available at The Scroll Shop, www.thescrollshop.ca.

Candy Box Fill these boxes with decadent chocolates or colorful candies. The boxes can be wrapped with a coordinating wedding color ribbon. Finish with a monogram of the bride’s and groom’s last name. Available at The Scroll Shop, www.thescrollshop.ca.

Truffle Treats A twist on traditional chocolates, delight your guests with a pair of truffles as a thank you. Available in a variety of designs and flavour combinations from Truffle Sensations, www.trufflesensations.com.

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A Classic Hat

Ladies, hats are back! A hat is the perfect finishing touch to an elegant cocktail dress and adds a traditional feminine flare to an ensemble that will be sure turn heads. Perfect for the mother of the bride and groom, a special wedding guest or even your bridal party. Michelle Djonlic, professional artist and milner, creates a variety of custom hats for women for all types of occasions. For more information visit www.andeohats.com. 78

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#111-12100 Macleod Trail S.E. Calgary, Alberta T2G-7G9 Phone 403-266-sexy Fax 403-266-7317

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What’s Underneath? Wearing the right lingerie can provide a woman with a feeling of pure sophistication while her other half will welcome the smooth, soft feeling of sexy lingerie while cuddling under the sheets. Selecting the right lingerie is essential to feeling and looking your best during your intimate moments as a new bride. Every new bride looks for that special garment of silk, satin, or lace to get her honeymoon trousseau off to a sensational start. For the day of your wedding you should have special bridal undergarments so your gowns’ fit is perfect. It is best to start shopping as soon as you have decided what gown you are going to purchase. With all the many different fabrics, beads and sequins on today’s designs there are many considerations to make.

Lingerie by Hanky Pankx Lingerie make up by Kazmetix

Night Owl Imports

Hanky Pankx

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Night Owl Imports

Hanky Pankx

Night Owl Imports

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The latest in honeymoon sleepwear is trending toward elegant, sophisticated lingerie. From satin, vintage inspired floor length styles to sexy, black lacy numbers, the trend is centering on glamour and elegance. Night Owl Imports

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Rehearsal Dinner

something

NEW The days of the sit-down dinners the night before the wedding are coming to an end. Now, couples are getting worked up for their big day in backyards, on the beach or at the bowling alley. If you are having an extremely formal wedding, make sure to relax at the rehearsal dinner. What better way to introduce the two families than over burgers and mom’s potato salad? Picnic tables will allow everyone to interact casually as food is passed around, cooked by the dads who are bonding over the grill. Decorate the tables with wildflowers in little pails and the classic red-and-white checkered tablecloths. Avoid unwanted guests with antimosquito candles. Try thinking fusion: have your favourite Chinese restaurant cater dinner, hire a sushi chef to make the rolls and serve mini pad thais as an appetizer. From ornate origami to colourful paper lanterns and parasols, your décor will be easily found in Chinatown (or an online supplier). Mango ice cream is a great treat for a sweet finale to your gathering. When doing your centerpieces, try fragrant orchids or colourful lotus blossoms.

Have a weekly poker night? Let your guests in on your fun by sending out invitations to your rehearsal dinner on customized playing cards for your casino night. Decorate surfaces with poker chips made from chocolate and let your whole bridal party take turns dealing the different games (or hire a real dealer). Remember, no casino is complete with lots of fantastic drinks, so have your bartender make up some just for you and keep the champagne flowing as your gambling guests spend the evening toasting you and your honey. If you’re looking for something different and chic, throw wine tasting party. Select six to eight different types of wine for the sale grape variety (all Shiraz, or chardonnay, etc) so your guests can really taste the difference a good winemaker and vineyard makes. Start by presenting the wine with the cheeses they compliment or hire a local vintner to help out. Need help with the décor? Grapes, grapes and more grapes! Hang and strategically place bunches of red and green grapes and vines throughout your venue for beautiful results.

A themed bowling party can be a ton of fun and will send a clear message of “casual” attire to your guests. Some alleys have private rooms where you can serve food and your menu is easy. Lots of finger food – nachos, pizza and pretzels. Try staging competitions, like boys versus girls and give awards at the end of the night. Don’t forget to honour “Most Gutter Balls”!

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Honeymoons The Call of Sun & Sand Everyone’s honeymoon has one thing in common; no matter where in the world you go, you are encouraged to experience romance in unique and special ways. From the call of a simple sun and sand beach holiday to an urban, fast-paced city honeymoon, or a historic tour around Europe, your romance will make it wonderful.

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Honeymoon Travel

You’ve planned your wedding and now you’re looking forward to enjoying the big day and your honeymoon afterwards! Read on to find out how to maximize your trip and minimize the hassles. For the most part, the timing of your honeymoon is dictated by your wedding date. However, if your postwedding trip is a major priority for you, select a time of year that will give you some flexibility. You don’t want to be held up by the whims of nature. Research weather patterns, after all, you don’t want to be in a tropical paradise at the height of the rainy season. Try to avoid the high season when things are the most crowded and demand is the highest (translation: most expensive). Roll – don’t fold – your clothes, especially wrinkle prone ones and pack tightly. Or you could lay your clothes in your suitcase on hangers and in plastic dry-cleaning bags. When choosing what to pack, go for crease-resistant fabrics like nylon, and lycra. Stuff socks and underwear in shoes or purses to help them keep their shape and wrap belts around the inside of your suitcase to save space. Make sure to take an empty bag with you to stock up on all the souvenirs and duty-free stuff you buy! Pack your valuables, a full change of clothes, some non-perishable snacks and your minimum toiletry needs in your carry-on, just in case something happens to your luggage. Researching a trip online is so much easier now, but when it comes to your honeymoon, working with a travel agent has some major advantages. Most agents have the benefits of firsthand experience on things like which

resort has the most amazing food or which beach is the best. They also get a lot more information on things like unadvertised discounts, package deals and options for your itinerary. Travel agents are one-stop shopping resources! They can book your flight, accommodations, car rentals, even excursions that might be available during your time of travel. Do your homework and discuss options with your sweetie so you can help the agent find the perfect fit for your honeymoon. Money is the last thing you want to worry about when travelling, so there are four things you should do before you leave: set a budget, know your limits, consider carefully the mix of cash, traveller’s checks and credit cards you wish to take, and assemble emergency contact numbers should something happen to your wallet. Check to see the availability of ATM’s at your destination, if there are lots, take less cash to limit your liability. If they aren’t readily available, pack more cash and traveller’s checks. Just remember that there could be

conversion charges when taking money out, or on your credit card statement. There are a lot of places in the world that aren’t very safe right now, so make sure you know a few things about the area you will be travelling to: Research local laws. Some activities you take for granted (smoking in public, giving money to buskers, etc.) may be illegal. Leave a copy of your itinerary with at least one person at home. Conceal your money! Stash it under your clothes or in your front pockets. Talk to your doctor about any vaccinations or medications you should have before your trip. Use hotel shuttles as often as possible and never get into an unmarked taxi. With careful planning you will be on your way to a fantastic vacation with the one you love. Enjoy!

Hacienda San Angele, Puerto Vallarta

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The Chance to Escape You don’t have to rob a bank to experience the perfect get-away. Unlike winning the lottery, the ultimate honeymoon takes some creative planning to have an amazing time. • Hit the web, books and magazines to scope out some destinations with offseason rates. • Look for packages that offer extras for honeymooners. • Check out cruises, they can be surprisingly affordable. • Staying close to home is an option. People travel from all over the world to visit Canada. • When traveling abroad, exchange funds at a bank to get a cheaper exchange rate. • European travel packages for car and airline are usually cheaper than booking them separate. • Pack reading material, tanning lotion and things you’ll pay a premium for at a resort shop. • Some travel agencies have a bridal registry so family & friends can help pay for the trip. • Get creative.

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Hers: Devonshire Cream His: Derks

Sail Away With Me As everyday life continues to become not just increasingly busy, but down right hectic, people are looking for the perfect escape. The desire to disappear to dreamland is ever apparent when it comes to weddings. In a recent survey conducted by the Conde Nast Bridal Group, destination weddings were reported to have increased by four hundred percent in the past fifteen years. From Bermuda’s beautiful beaches to the romantic cobblestone streets of Venice, brides and grooms are choosing a vast array of luxurious getaways to tie the knot. The wedding weekend is a new destination wedding spin-off. Wedding weekends generally occur closer to the couple’s hometown and include an entire weekend of fun events that revolve around the wedding. What makes this option enticing is the opportunity a wedding weekend provides; a chance to relax and spend quality time with family and friends. Some couples book an entire bed and breakfast resort or a large cottage for their close family and friends to stay at.

Hotel Villa Premiere, Puerto Vallarta

If a destination wedding or wedding weekend is in your cards, keep in mind that space sells out quickly when it comes to the top destination wedding resorts; it’s important to book your event eight to twelve months in advance. Work with a destination wedding specialist to ensure all necessary documentation and planning is taken care of, so when you sail away you’re worry free.

Hacienda San Angele, Puerto Vallarta

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AMA Travel is Alberta’s largest full service travel agency. Whether your dream wedding involves cruising, allinclusive packages, or one-of-a-kind trips to destinations such as the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, the Mediterranean or the South Pacific … we’ll make it happen. Turn your dream into a reality and call your nearest AMA Travel office to get started on planning your Destination Wedding Package today!

The most popular trend in honeymoon travel is the Destination Wedding, bringing together your dream wedding with an equally romantic honeymoon location. Our group packages let you create an unforgettable wedding experience for all. Share the beauty of your special day with your family and friends … at some of the most exciting destinations around the world.

An unforgettable experience From lavish wedding/travel packages or nuptials at sea, to quiet villas in Tuscany, to secluded tropical hideaways, we’ll help you explore all the options, customize special arrangements, meet all the requirements of marriage in a foreign country, and create the perfect package that meets both your budget and your dreams.

The advantages of working with experienced and knowledgeable travel consultants are infinite. AMA Travel offers you the benefit of our many years of experience and destination knowledge, giving you that all important peace of mind. Our attention to detail ensures you of a truly memorable travel experience.

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you’ve always dreamed of. AMA Travel can make your dream destination wedding come true. We will look after all of the details for you and your wedding party. Plus depending on the wedding package and destination you choose you could receive some or all of these benefits. • Complimentary

seat and room upgrades for the bride and groom • Complimentary headset and beverage vouchers for all wedding guests • FREE personalized wedding invitations • Gifts for guests • Private airport-to-hotel transfers • Additional group package savings

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The Top Ten Ways to Thrill Your Fiancé 10 9

Let her have 10 bridesmaids. Let her overhear you telling one of your ushers “Of course we have to wear matching formal dress shoes. Other wise it will spoil the symmetry.”

Reveal to her that you still have the ticket stub from the movie you saw together on your first date.

After you get the Marriage License, go away to a romantic inn for a weekend-long pre-honeymoon.

When you are registering for gifts, offer to look at more than one place setting without her having to ask you first.

Tell her you have waited your whole life to wear a wedding ring.

Assure her that your best man won’t make any references to your sexual history in his toast… and then make sure he doesn’t.

3 2

Find a way to make her father laugh.

As you walk back up the aisle together, lean over and whisper “I’m the luckiest guy in the world.” Propose to her all over again.

Learn to breathe. Shield yourself against stress by breathing properly.

Bridal Stress Buster 90 90

| |

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Pull your shoulder blades together to open up your chest. Slowly inhale through your nose and expand your chest. Exhale through your mouth letting your chest flatten out. Making a concerted, thoughtful effort to breathe properly will reduce stress drastically.

We know exactly how wedding guests feel when faced with the ‘what do we buy them’ dilemma. Everyone buys a gift, but wouldn’t you rather give them something you know they need or like? Too many people fall into the trap of buying for themselves rather than the lucky couple who end up getting saddled with four teapots or towels that don’t match their bathroom.

Today’s bridal registries let you get an idea of the couple’s choices and you can always customize to suit your personal preference. Remember, a registry is more of a guideline of the couple’s preferences. For example, many people go into a store and discover the china pattern is beautiful but not in their gift budget. Instead, choose complimentary items such as table linens that mirror the

The Professional 600 Series is KitchenAid's most powerful stand mixer, a necessity for any aspiring gourmet! Available from Linens ‘N Things Gift Registry, www.lnt.com.

Camper’s Village

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china’s colour scheme. This way the registry list is not as imposing. A good registry planner will help guests consider various price points to accommodate their own budgets.

The hotel living bedding collection is elegant and luxurious - perfect for your master bedroom suite. Available from Linens ‘N Things Gift Registry, www.lnt.com. BRIDALFANTASY

Choosing Your China Today’s china isn’t anything like what you see in your grandma’s dining room. However, it is still one of the most popular gifts from a registry. Nowadays, the word china has become a universal term for dinnerware and dishes ranging from classic fine china to modern, casual chic. Make sure to get more than enough. Register for 8 – 12 place settings. While this may seem like overkill right now, you’ll be glad you did when that extra guest shows up at Thanksgiving dinner. Typically, formal china is a 5-piece package with a dinner plate, salad/dessert plate, bread plate and a cup and saucer. Casual china is usually a 4-piece package with a dinner plate, salad/dessert plate, soup/cereal bowl and a mug. When you are registering, you’ll hear terms like bone china (considered the best), stoneware (strong), porcelain (similar to bone), and earthenware (slightly porous ceramic). Bone and porcelain are considered formal or fine china, while stoneware and earthenware are used more for everyday. It used to be a huge faux pas to mix your casual and formal tableware. Now it is widely accepted and even considered stylish to do so. You can create a unique table by mixing classic china with modern, funky glassware or vice versa. If you are looking for a fun way to make a subtle statement, try blending different prints or colours of the same pattern or style. Be sure to register for both a large and small serving platter, two or three serving bowls of various sizes, a gravy boat, a sugar bowl and creamer and various other small serving dishes. You also don’t want to forget about cereal and/or soup bowls as well as other pieces like salt & pepper shakers. You’ll want to have these pieces for entertaining, especially big family dinners! And frankly, some people would

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rather give you the one-and-only gravy boat instead of one or two of your place settings. While you are adding onto your registry, check to see if the china you have picked also has some fun extras. Things like a bread tray, cake platter, candlesticks, or a soup tureen are fun and unique gifts for your guests to choose from. These pieces make an impression and people love to give decorative and useful items. Remember, even though you’re not paying for this, people will be shelling out big bucks for your gifts. The least you can do is take care of all these wonderful pieces. Most everyday china is dishwasher-safe, but repeated exposure to hot water and

harsh detergents can damage some china and/or the glazes. When washing the good stuff, make sure to use lower water temperatures, mild detergents and the gentle cycle. Anything that is banded or hand-painted should be washed by hand. When storing your china, put paper towels between the pieces to help prevent scratching. Don’t forget, when choosing your china, it’s important to discuss styles, colours and patterns with your honey. You’ll both be looking at these pieces for years to come so make sure you both like what you pick. Now get out there and start shopping!

Certified Gorgeous

Suitings: Can be used in so many ways, shirt and tie combinations, lots of layering. Layering with a linen shirt or knit piece. Choice of the season: Tiger of Sweden, Lanza, Versace, Strellson! Awesome fabrics and off the rack fit that is amazing. Subtle pin stripes and lots of plain colors are definitely going to be key. Tan suits/linen suits are a must have for destination weddings and hot summer getaways. His: Derks Her: Who Cares? Hair by Elysium Make up by Elicia Ellis Sunglasses: Eye Care Group Car: Lexus Edmonton

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Men: Derks Women: Who Cares? and J. Michaels Hair & make up by Elysium Sunglasses: Eye Care Group

Certified Rockstar put together a fashion conscious look.

“God made man. A tailor made him a gentleman.” Anonymous

It has been re-occurring…a historic revival in menswear… the • If you want to try something men’s suiting silhouette is completely original, why not a becoming narrower. Flat front made-to-measure suit. There are trousers and form fitting jackets hundreds of fabrics to choose are now becoming the fashion from. You can get as plain or as norm. funky as you feel. Perfect is a form fitting Tiger of

Sweden or Strellson wool suit paired with a turtleneck or t-shirt. It looks like a revival of the sixties. Men today are streamlining and updating the 60’s look with functional, fashion sensibility and personal style. Cut and fabric on a good suit is

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Cake Couture Anything goes when it comes to choosing the wedding cake that’s right for you. From a traditional wedding cake to a chocolate buffet,

dessert artists are revolutionizing the wedding cake industry. The perfect cake must look good and taste even better. The wedding cake is the focal point of your reception. Whether you stick to tradition or opt for something more contemporary, ensure your cake is a visual treat as well as a mouth-watering experience for the taste buds.

Spread the Love Satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth and spread the love by serving all of your guests a miniature rose drizzled lightly with raspberry syrup and garnished with mint. You and your groom can cut into a larger rose cake, a terrific replacement for a traditional wedding cake. For more information in regards to ordering a rose cake buffet contact

This is what you’ve really been saving yourself for

For wedding cakes, cupcakes, chocolate/cookie favours, stagette, bath & body products and so much more, just follow your desires. We are booking up quickly so don’t delay. For more information visit us at www.buttercreambakeshoppe.com 103 -1019 17th Ave. SW Calgary 403.228.9900 info@buttercreambakeshoppe.com

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Truffle Temptation

Tempt your guests with a delectable truffle cake. For the bride and groom who prefer chocolate to cake, a truffle tower is the perfect after dinner treat that will ensure your guests rave about your wedding. Available from Truffle Sensations, www.trufflesensations.com.

Cupcake Delight Mauves and purples are everywhere this wedding season. From flowers to accents on cakes, this color is the new pink. Entice your guests to indulge in an exotic cupcake from a marvelous cupcake tower. Match the icing to your wedding color or garnish the tower with cuts of your wedding flower. Available at The Cupcake Bakeshoppe &

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Dazzling Drops Frame your face with some jewelled drop earrings.

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Flowers Ă la chocolat There is nothing like a traditional wedding cake accented with fresh flowers! Cake artists today can incorporate a wide variety of flowers, gems and ribbons into their cake dĂŠcor to create an elegant and trendy look. Available at Le Gateau www.legateau.ca

Cake courtesy Le Gateau, www.legateau.ca.

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Photo courtesy of Donna Tam Photography

Queen for a Day Nothing sets the stage like beautiful hair topped with a tiara. Hair: Elysium Make up: Marie Chan Tiara & Veil: Denilore

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The Perfect Album Snap Happy Your wedding photographs are the sweetest and most lasting memory of your big day. Long after the flowers have wilted and the confetti has been swept away, your wedding album will provide you with a treasured reminder of your special day. Your celebrations are captured so you can re-live your once-in-a-lifetime day.

Photo courtesy Donna Tam Photography

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Photo courtesy Darwin Mulligan Photography

Photo courtesy Donna Tam Photography

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Memory Maker How are you going to capture all of the people, the feelings and hard work that have gone into your wedding? The most popular picture style today is photojournalism, which objectively documents every nuance of your day. However, to get a perfectly balanced album, you need to keep the basics in mind too. The days of the police line-up wedding party portrait are gone, but that doesn’t mean you don’t want formal pictures of everyone decked out in their finest. Go for a combination of formal and unconventional pictures. There are five must-take shots for any formal session: the bride and groom, the couple with their attendants, the couple with their parents, the couple with the bride’s immediate family and the couple with the groom’s immediate family. If you want shots of other groupings, add them to your list, but remember the shorter the sessions can be kept, the fresher the photos will look. Timing is everything. Some shots will take longer than others but don’t stress out about the timing of your day – it will show in the photos. If the ceremony or reception is rapidly approaching, pick a time later in the day to reschedule and take the rest of the pictures you want. Another way to maximize the moments spent taking pictures is to hire a second photographer to shoot the behind-the-scenes pictures.

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Photo courtesy of McMaster Photographers

Photo courtesy Donna Tam Photography

Photo courtesy Darwin Mulligan Photography

Photo courtesy McMaster Photographer

Photo courtesy Donna Tam Photography

Photo courtesy McMaster Photography

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3 powerful ways to nurture your relationships by Wayne Lee Spending quality time with their loved ones is what many people value. Yet, within today’s fastpaced society, people are caught up in the rat race of working hard and making money. This often results in spending less time with their loved ones. In order for people to grow together and be healthy they must spend quality time with each other, which involves communicating with love, honesty, and commitment. Here are three simple and powerful ways to spend more quality time with your loved ones: On Monday morning or Sunday evening, share your biggest success of the previous week and the greatest challenge of the coming week. By sharing your successes, you celebrate winning. When you share your challenges, this allows your loved ones to support you in overcoming them. Have an activity night. This is time that you set aside just for

yourselves. The activities can be playing a sport together, playing a game, or even watching a movie. The stipulation is that all of you need to be present – both physically and emotionally. Eliminate the distractions and focus on the time you have together. Take time for gratitude. This is where you and your loved ones share what they are grateful for in the day or week. This can be scheduled at dinner or any time that you all agree upon. By sharing what you are grateful for, you magnify the great things in life. What you focus upon expands, and this feeling of gratitude will lead to more gratefulness. By spending quality time and communicating with openness, honesty and commitment, you will continually nurture and grow your relationships. Visit speaker, author and hypnotist, Wayne Lee, at www.waynelee.com for information on his empowering motivational presentations and energizing hypnosis shows.

h Marriage doesn’t necessarily bring you closer together H

Our Marriage Preparation Program does. Enroll at 403 265-4980 or calgarycounselling.com

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Preserving Your Wedding Gown

Many dry cleaners, bridal shops or specialty companies will professionally clean and preserve your gown. Always ask for recommendations as care is important for this special keepsake. Always clean your gown right after your wedding otherwise it may turn yellow.

Dresses by (left to right): ABC Bridal Wedding World Denilore Bridal Denilore Bridal Hair & Make up: Pure Elements Salon & Spa

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Top 5 Reasons to Choose Videography

Relive the Big Picture. With all the attention focused on you, it is easy to get lost in the details of the day.

Capture the Emotion. Photography captures moments. Videography will capture every emotion.

No regrets. Nearly half of all brides who choose not to have their wedding captured in video say they would have hired a videographer if they could do it all over again.

One Chance. Your wedding only happens once; with video you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss a moment.

Treasured Memories. A wedding video is a timeless heirloom that can be treasured by you and your family for generations to come. Courtesy of Imago Media www.imagoweddings.com

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How To Select a DJ Selection. Is the DJ you hire going to be able to play the songs that you want to hear, and how often do they update their library? Professionalism. Is the DJ you hire going to be able to interact with your crowd to the level that they will respond to without going over “the line”? Wherever your line may be. Value. Price should not be the deciding factor in your choice, but it does play an important part. You should decide what your budget is and then let the deciding factors be the services that you can get within that range. Experience. Hire a DJ with experience. Look for a company or individual that can provide references. It’s important, as music creates the right atmosphere. Comfort. This is your wedding day. You have a ton of stress from other things, and you don’t need it from your DJ. If you aren’t confident in the decision that you made, it will ad to your stress load, and make you worry about it when you should be worrying about other things. The best way to be confident in your decision is to ask questions. The more you ask, the more you know. The more you know, the more you are going to be confident that you are making the right decision.

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HOW TO STAY

MARRIED! The ‘Happily Ever After’ starts now By: Steffany Hanlen Personal Performance Coach After 10 years of marriage I think I may have it figured out. On June 29, 1996 I thought I was committing to a person, but the truth is I committed to a process called ‘being married’. The big question on the day of the wedding is usually “will everything go well and will the food arrive hot?” Rarely is the question be “how will the marriage be after the big day…”? I had no idea, no matter what anyone told me, that I was in for the ride of my life. That ride started the next day, June 30, 1996… Even with all the work and details involved, getting married is easy; staying married is not so easy. As the divorce rate hits 50% in North America it seems that more and more people are taking what seems to be the easy way out of a situation that, on the day they said “I do”, was never even a thought. Now that statistic is brought up more and more as a fact of life going into this important day. Divorce is rarely easy, so is there anything that we can do before the nuptials to at least give the marriage a fighting chance?? So, how does one stay married after the magic of the romance and honeymoon period are over? Here are 7 things that may help newly engaged couples navigate the journey into the unknown. Begin with the end in mind! Decide how you want your married life to be, look and feel. Discuss with your partner the day to day expectations you have about what you think marriage is and how you would like to create your life. Pre-marital courses are great as they allow you to bring up your thoughts, goals and dreams with in the safety of a facilitated program. Do this as soon as you are engaged. Bring up all your goals, fears, hopes and dreams. Be brave!! Put it all out there so your partner knows who they are really

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getting. If you are with the right person, the truth is what will bring you closer. It is easier to stick to something long term if you know what you are getting into in advance. Take a truthful look at the marriage of your partner’s parents. Whether we know it or like it or not, we are products of our environments. Look at all the positive and negative aspects of each others upbringing and decide which qualities you want to bring into your own married life. When your new wife ‘becomes her mother’ don’t be surprised. It happens, especially when children are involved. Commit to the process of being married, not the other person. If you are only committed to the ‘person’ as he or she is on the wedding day, then, when they grow and change…which they will, they may no longer be the person you married. Irreconcilable differences is the legal term for, “I don’t know her/him anymore”. People change and grow. We learn, we unlearn, we make mistakes and we can hurt each other with unsaid or unmet expectations. If you go into the marriage and understand that this person also becomes your business partner in life, make sure that you listen deeply to their goals and do not make up a story about who you want them to be. If you are committed to being married, each of you can grow and change with the support of the other. Marriage is a process; it is not the end game. Ensure you are fully disclosing yourself. This one is the hardest. For example, if you are bringing years of debt from schooling (or a shoe addiction) it is much easier to deal with this type of thing before you get married than to have to deal with it afterwards. We have the fantasy that if he/she loves us enough they will forgive us. Maybe so, but wouldn’t it be better for the marriage if the disclosure of

‘negatives’ happened prior to a lifetime commitment. This way a choice can be made with all the information. Know that just when you think you have it figured out, IT will all change. Life happens. Sickness, health, death, birth, moving, job loss, menopause, weight gain, hair loss… If there is a chance that anyone of these things will happen to you, then have a plan to stick it out together. Be a team, a loss of a job or a birth of a child happens to both of you now. There is no WE! Even though it seems society is created for couples, newly weds need to understand that a couple is still made up of a ‘you’ and a ‘me’! When you say WE should do something, make sure you assign one of you to actually DO IT. If ‘WE’ doesn’t get it done, then the blame game begins. This is one of the biggest traps I have found. If I hear my husband say, WE should get groceries, I now know to ask if that means he is stopping at the store, or should I. If I don’t ask for clarification, generally WE end up both at home with nothing in the fridge. It goes both ways. Saying ‘WE’ is a cover for not having the courage to ask for what you want. It becomes a habit to say would YOU do this please? Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Your life partner is someone YOU have chosen. Sometime there are business conversations you must have. Emotions can run high so if a decision needs to be made on a sensitive topic like religion, children, money or politics, treat each other with the respect you want to be treated with. Take turns listening to each other without trying to figure out how to be right or get your own way! Also, if you find yourself in a battle of wills or arguing over things in the past, just remember, you decided that this person…and you need to

get this…is the person YOU chose to spend the rest of your life with. You are still the boss Cont’d of your own life and have chosen a partnership with another person who is still the boss of their own life. Your marriage is a third entity that needs to be honored and protected. If you have entered this mature agreement called marriage with as much honesty and integrity that you have, don’t be afraid to speak your mind, give a little and love a lot! On June 28th, the night before my wedding, I asked myself a hard question before I fell asleep. As I closed my eyes I said “If this person NEVER changes…can I commit the rest of my life to him?” When I woke the morning of my big day in the safety of my parent’s home the answer came to me loud and clear. It was “Absolutely, be a grown up, get your own needs met and take care of yourself” It was then I truly understood that I was creating the next stage of my life, with a man I loved and respected, exactly for who he was. Gratefully we are entering our second decade of our marriage partnership and I plan to stick it out to the end. We have both changed, grown, gained and lost weight, lost hair and even a tooth or two. There have been good times and great times. The bad times, well they exist too. I am blessed that I know that if the bad times didn’t exist we really would not know how good we have it.

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Your Unique Reception Looking to stretch the limits and have a wedding like no other? Don’t be afraid! Try something new that will completely define to everyone who you are as a couple. There are a ton of ideas out there; from a complex Hawaiian luau to a simple element like snowflakes that inspires the whole theme. Locating the right place to have your fantastic affair is one of the greatest challenges. Different venues will set different tones for your reception. Locate a distinctive venue – old nightclubs, movie theatres, trendy restaurants or historic houses. You can also transform the space you choose by setting up screens to create different environments for dinner and dancing. You can use lighting to change the mood from one area to the next. Finding a common chord that plays through all of the elements of your wedding will help you put on a reception that will be truly unforgettable. Have a photo booth set up at your reception site that your friends and family can use to take their own pictures and group shots. The results are kind of like a home video without any sound. It doesn’t matter what you do, whether you pose properly or stick your tongue out at the camera, these pictures will show the true colours of your wedding. Compile them into a visual wedding-day guest book, and these photos will be treasured by the bride and groom for years to come. The vibe of any and all weddings is dictated by the décor. If you are looking for romance, cover your space with dozens of red roses and gold accents. For a more casual elegance, use

candles set afloat in pools and flowers in fish bowls. Classic is always a wonderful choice. White-on-white is never out of style. While there are a lot of people looking for ultra-hip and modern colours and coordination, there are those who want super very traditional. Talk to your florist and decorator: mix shades of white in the bouquets, use all white linens or ivory linens with white overlays and have a white wedding cake with ivory sugar blossoms. Some final touches on this look: waiters dressed in tuxes with white jackets (can we say hello James Bond?) and of course, nothing else would do but a white limo. You can also develop a visually stunning scene with monochromatic colour. Try using different shapes and sizes of tables and us the different designs or textures you have chosen for fabrics on set tables (polka dots on the squares, pin-striped on the round, etc). You colour palette will remain the same throughout, but each table will have its own personality. When dressing up your tables, the arrangements do not have to be uniform. Try thinking of your reception as a large garden, each section having its own identity. Use tall, opaque vases on some tables, float blossoms in short bowls on others and use vases filled with coloured rocks and water on some. Accent the tall centerpieces with shorter votive or tealight candles, while using taller taper candles for your shorter centerpieces. Make sure your candles are all unscented, you don’t want those smells to interfere with dinner!

Elegant Touches

If you are in a huge reception space, make it more intimate by adding lounge furniture. If this isn’t an option, seat less people at a table and drape the walls and ceilings with rich fabrics to help close in the space. A key (and usually forgotten) element is lighting. Yes, you can always use candlelight or strung twinkle lights, but ask if your venue has another form of lighting and see if you can use it! Maybe your venue has cool effects like gobo lighting. Be careful, it can border on cheesy if you overdo it but putting your new monogram on the white walls during your first dance can be a beautiful and unexpected element to the occasion. Expresso bars a great accessory to dessert and they provide that jolt at the end of the night as the party winds down. Lattes and cappuccinos served on dainty china can be very sexy drinks. This works really will with a dessert buffet. Bring in a lot of different sweets like crème burlee and chocolate-covered strawberries. Talk to your caterer about fun and creative ways to decorate the tables and present the mini-desserts. You can even get friends and family in on this – ask your best friend to make those fantastic brownies, or your aunt to make her famous pecan squares. This encourages mingling and gets people off their butts!

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Making your dreams come true! Celebrate your wedding with us! :: Dedicated wedding specialist :: Customized wedding packages :: Fresh and flavourful cuisine :: Outstanding service and attention to your needs :: Ceremony, reception and banquet facilities available :: Special room rates available for your guests

Call us at 9 3 0 4 0 1 7 | 16615 109 Ave | Edmonton | Alberta | www.mayfieldinnedmonton.com

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Women and Money By Kelley Keehn

Reflecting back to the 1950s, times were simpler for women as well for men regarding matters of money. Men went to work and were the breadwinners. Women’s duties were to provide a good home and raise the family’s children. Fast-forward to the new millennium and

women have unlimited freedom in North America to become virtually anything they’d like. The choices available are limitless and anything but simple. It’s shocking to ponder that women, just a few short decades ago, didn’t have the choice to manage the household finances, or in some homes, have a say in money matters at all. For whatever amount of time you believe humans have walked this earth, it’s been at least thousands of years that men have been educated and conditioned to handle money. Women? Well, just a few short decades. Nearing the close of 2006, the role of “woman” is not so easily defined. Some in this gender category will take a

proactive approach or even lead their household in matters of finance. Others will choose to take a passive role their entire life or until some critical moment, such as a divorce forces them to engage the subject. Either way, head on or delayed, matters of money cannot be ignored long term. The following is a simple guideline of elements of a woman’s life that should be considered at various stages. Not yet married and no children. The obvious consideration for this group is that one income will need to sustain her short and long-term money goals. Other important considerations are:

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Reception Critical illness insurance, disability insurance and long-term care insurance. These policies are paramount to the single woman’s lifestyle. With only her income for survival, should a major illness or disability occur, the results could be devastating. The cost of these insurance policies logically increases with age, so one needs to shop around and consider their importance for each individual situation. If sufficient emergency funds exist, theses policies might not be essential. Depending on one’s age and life goals, long-term care policies are might rate high on the importance scale. With no children or spouse to offer support in later years, this policy is important to consider. Emergency savings. This point should be somewhat self-explanatory. The single income female needs to have at least three months income in a safe, yet high interest account just for times of need. Life insurance. This may or may not be of prime importance. Without children or a significant other, the estate is less of a consideration than the above points. This group does need to keep in mind that as one ages, life insurance premiums increase. Also, with age, the risk of developing or being diagnosed with an illness that would render one “uninsurable” should be evaluated, regardless of one’s present estate needs. RRSP savings. Depending on this groups employer pension plan, RRSPs should be taken advantage of fully when cash flow is available. Married Women; no children. Consider setting up a “financial planning” meeting with your spouse to discuss the importance of critical illness insurance, each other’s work benefits including disability insurance and long-term care insurance. Depending on your debts and that of your spouse, life insurance should be considered and discussed. The need for an emergency account should factor in both spouse’s incomes for at least a three month period. Engage in dialogue about major life shifts that

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might occur in the future. Will one of you consider changing careers, switch from employee to entrepreneur status? Will either of you go back to school? Are children planned for in the foreseeable future? Discussing your goals, hopes and dreams as a couple helps avoid surprises in the future that affect your short term and long term financial plans. Married Women with children. No doubt about it, children are your most costly investment. Although no parent would associate or justify having children based on a dollar amount, this expense needs to be planned for. With Canadians facing record high debt levels and record low savings patterns, affording children requires somewhat of a juggling act. Unless cash flow is not an issue, retiring as planned and enjoying the luxuries of life while paying for the kids extracurricular activities and supporting them through university will require a creative strategy. The following considerations are in order:

As with any category, seek the advice of a qualified professional financial planner to determine the retirement funds needed. Do you and your spouse have a pension plan? If so, perhaps more should be saved outside of an RRSP or income splitting considered. Today’s woman has opportunities availed to her that only generations past could have ever imagined. With such freedom requires education and

research. Seek the council of a professional financial planner before embarking on any financial journey. Kelley Keehn is an international speaker and author of four books including, The Woman’s Guide to Money. Her newest book, The Prosperity Factor for Canadian Kids will be released nationally in March 2007. Visit Kelley at www.KelleyKeehn.com or call her at 780-732-0144.

Will you provide for your children’s post secondary education? If so, a recent study by the Manitoba government reports that a four year university education with cost $44,000 on average. And by the year 2019, that amount will increase to $74,000. What amount are you willing to save now or contribute to fund this goal? Keep in mind, many parents that have an excess of funds and can easily fully fund their child’s education are choosing to limit those resources. This group states that they want their children to appreciate an education as much as they did and consider if throwing money at their child is the best course of action. Dialogue with your kids as young as fourteen as to the part they will play in assisting to fund their post secondary studies. Of all insurance discussed in previous categories, life insurance is likely paramount. Debts should be covered by life insurance and indexed for inflation. Seek the council of a good lawyer that will walk you through a will, enduring power of attorney and living will. Do not ignore the other types of insurance, as they are equally important during your living years. However, if cash flow is tight, younger couples in this category will allocate insurance premiums to that of a life insurance policy.

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Think outside the box. Create a bridal registry that speaks volumes about your personal style. We’ll help you express your style your way.

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The need for an emergency account should factor in both spouse’s incomes for at least a three month period. Engage in dialogue about major life shifts that might occur in the future. Will one of you consider changing careers, switch from employee to entrepreneur status? Will either of you go back to school? Are children planned for in the foreseeable future? Discussing your goals, hopes and dreams as a couple helps avoid surprises in the future that affect your short term and long term financial plans. Married Women with children. No doubt about it, children are your most costly investment. Although no parent would associate or justify having children based on a dollar amount, this expense needs to be planned for. With Canadians facing record high debt levels and record low savings patterns, affording children requires somewhat of a juggling act. Unless cash flow is not an issue, retiring as planned and enjoying the luxuries of life while paying for the kids extracurricular activities and supporting them through university will require a creative strategy. The following considerations are in order:

Wedding Tradition: Hey Brides, tuck a sugar cube into your glove. According to Greek culture the sugar will sweeten your union. 132

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throwing money at their child is the best course of action. Dialogue with your kids as young as fourteen as to the part they will play in assisting to fund their post secondary studies. Of all insurance discussed in previous categories, life insurance is likely paramount. Debts should be covered by life insurance and indexed for inflation. Seek the council of a good lawyer that will walk you through a will, enduring power of attorney and living will. Do not ignore the other types of insurance, as they are equally important during your living years. However, if cash flow is tight, younger couples in this category will allocate insurance premiums to that of a life insurance policy. As with any category, seek the advice of a qualified professional financial planner to determine the retirement funds needed. Do you and your spouse have a pension plan? If so, perhaps more should be saved outside of an RRSP or income splitting considered. Today’s woman has opportunities availed to her that only generations past could have ever imagined. With such freedom requires education and research. Seek the council of a professional financial planner before embarking on any financial journey. Kelley Keehn is an international speaker and author of four books including, The Woman’s Guide to Money. Her newest book, The Prosperity Factor for Canadian Kids will be released nationally in March 2007. Visit Kelley at www.KelleyKeehn.com or call her at 780732-0144.

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Select Advertisers Accentric Salon & Spa #144, 500 Country Hills Blvd NE Calgary, AB T3K 4Y7 Phone: 403-226-7000 AMA Travel 10310 – 39A Avenue Edmonton, AB T6J 6R7 Toll-free: 1-866-667-4777 www.ama.ab.ca AMA Travel is Alberta’s largest full service vacation travel agency. We offer you the benefit of our many years of experience, knowledge and a world of destination choices, giving you that all-important peace of mind. Turn your dreams into a reality and call or visit your nearest AMA Travel agency to get started on planning your Destination Wedding or Honeymoon today!

Andeo Hats 11844 - 85 Street Edmonton, AB T5B 3E9 Phone: 780-474-8042 www.andeohats.com Bikini Boot Camp #305, 908-17th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2T 0A3 Phone: 403-542-0790 www.bikinibootcamp.ca Bikini Boot Camp is not your typical personal training experience. Our function-based program has been created specifically for women by women. Using exercise techniques aimed at developing core strength and balance, agility and flexibility, Bikini Boot Camp will challenge you to try something new. Surrounded by the beauty of our natural parks we celebrate the benefits of getting active and staying active. Bikini Boot Camp welcomes women of all ages and levels of fitness. From the first time novice to the fitness fanatic every workout is guaranteed to be challenging and fun while you work toward your personal best.

Body Innovations 2132b - 33 Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2T 1Z6 Phone: 403-249-8600 www.bodyinnovations.ca Lose 1-3 inches guaranteed before your wedding day! Body Innovations presents the most effective non- invasive inch and toning treatment the Eurowave. The Eurowave has been helping brides and bridal parties tighten and tone up problem areas while accelerating their weight loss goals in a fraction of the time! Visit us today and enjoy your first Eurowave session for only $10.

Brad Wieler Photography 1905 - 32 Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2T 1W6 Phone: 403-605-2699 www.bradwielerphotography.com Bridal Conference www.bridalconference.ca Bridal Fantasy Magazine & Tradeshow 1-800-565-6664 www.bridalfantasy.com Corporate Office: 8109-102 Street Edmonton, Alberta T6E 4A4 Bridal Fantasy Sweepstakes Win prizes online at www.bridalfantasy.com Bridal Debut #22, 975 Broadmoor Blvd. Sherwood Park, AB T8A 5W9 Phone: 780-467-4082 www.bridaldebut.com

Bridal Fashion Group 118 – 16 Avenue NE Calgary, AB 2E 1J5 Phone: 403-230-7648 Located in the heart of downtown Calgary, Bridal Fashion Group offers everything from bridal gowns to pretty dresses for your flower girls. Have a look at their wonderful selection of unique bridesmaid dresses and find the perfect outfit for your mom and mother-in-law to be.

Buttercream Bake Shoppe #103, 1019-17 Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2T 0A7 Phone: 403-875-0210 Calgary Counselling Centre #200, 440 - 6 Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 3T1 Phone: 403-265-4980 www.calgarycounselling.com Care Free Sounds DJ Service 4806 Dalhousie Drive NW Calgary, AB T3A 1B2 Phone: 403-249-2678 www.carefreesounds.com Your wedding day will be one of the most important and memorable times of your life. Care Free Sounds DJ Service prides itself in making this special day enjoyable for you and your loved ones. Beginning with an early set-up, we help to make your evening a 'Care Free' event. Please visit our website for more info. CC on Whyte Inc. 5040 – 104A Street Edmonton, AB T6H 6A2 Phone: 780-432-1785 Conexia 5315 – 53 Avenue NW Calgary, AB T3A 2E7 Phone: 403-519-3920

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Cosmetic Laser Vein Centre 3rd Floor, 1504 – 15 Avenue SW Calgary, AB T3C 0X9 Phone: 403-245-8008

Evening With The Stars #2502, 123 – 10 Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2R 1K8 Phone: 403-614-7678

Kaptec Sales Ltd. 4806 Dalhousie Drive NW Calgary, AB T3A 1B2 Phone: 403-890-9532

Crowchild Centre for Positive Living 23 Hawkstone Crescent NW Calgary, AB T3G 2P1 Phone: 403-239-9661

Evergreen Stationers 3855-99 Street Edmonton, AB T6E 6H6 Phone 780-468-2734 Why send an ordinary wedding invitation? Let Evergreen Stationers help you design your own personalized invitation created from our extensive selection of speciality papers. Choose from our many elegant, festive and fashionable designs or create a style that is all your own. Our staff at Evergreen Stationers is qualified to guide you effortlessly through the selection and personalization of your invitations always keeping your individuality in mind. For over 20 years, Evergreen Stationers has provided exceptional service to our customers. You’re unique – let your invitations show it.

Kazmetix Make-up Artistry Suite 11, RR1, Box 19 Gunn, AB T0E 1A0 Phone: 780-967-4887

Specifically tailored wedding services to meet your needs as an individual and as a couple. We have ministers who are open and supportive of your journey in life. There is also a non-traditional option that is respected by both the religious and non-religious. Crowchild Centre for Positive Living also offers premarital counselling.

Crown Ring (514) 381-1589 (866) 214-RING www.crownring.com info@crownring.com Darwin Mulligan Photography 166 Kulaway Dr N Edmonton, AB T6L 6Z1 Phone: 780-462-2241 www.darwinmulligan.com Decore Hotels 10074 – 164 Street Edmonton, AB T5P 4Y3 Phone: 780-481-7578 Denilore Bridal 5916-104 Street Edmonton, AB T6H 2K3 Phone: 780-431-0539 At Denilore Bridal our goal is to ensure top quality service and products, which makes us one of Edmonton's leading retailers of wedding gowns, bridesmaids dresses, and mother of the bride gowns. We have a wide variety of gowns and accessories from all major designers to choose from. Our alteration department is one of the finest in the city. Derks Formals and Menswear Edmonton: 8111-102 Street – Main Store Phone 780-433-6614 10410-118 Avenue Phone: 780-477-1655 10120-151 Street Phone: 780-483-1807 Calgary: #107 7004 MacLeod Trail SE Phone: 403-301-3366 Email: info@derks.ca www.derks.ca Derk's Formals & Menswear has been outfitting guys for over 65 years. Whether it's your wedding day, graduation, or just another Saturday night on the town, Derks has been trusted and trained to help you look your very best. Check us out online at www.derks.ca or at any one of our 4 locations. Consumer Choice Award winners since 2002! Donna Tam Photography 925 Heacock Road Edmonton, AB T6R 2K4 Phone: 780-988-9828 Dynamic Images #12, 3620 – 29 Street NE Calgary, AB T1Y 5Z8 Phone: 403-291-9777 www.dynamicimages.ca Echo Ventures 18716 – 65 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5T 2N6 www.dvdinvitations.ca Elegant Touches #102, 10306-112 Street Edmonton, AB T5K 1N1 Phone: 780-414-0088 www.eleganttouches.ca We make wedding dreams come true. Let our experienced consultants work with you to create a totally personalized, breathtaking look for your celebration. Elegant Touches is a full service décor and rental resource. Our staff carefully plans every detail with you, then meticulously tends to the installation. We would love to present you with the wedding of your dreams…after all, it’s your day.

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Fantasyland Hotel 17700 – 87 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5T 4V4 Phone: 780-444-3000 GEM ORO Goldsmith 1093 West Edmonton Mall 8882 – 170 Street Edmonton, AB T5T 3J7 Phone: 780-444-7210 Global Edmonton & Calgary Go Travel/Fun Sun Vacations #50, 200 St, Albert Road St. Albert, AB T8N 5H9 Phone: 780-459-9610 Email: ido@gotravelnow.ca Website: www.gotravelnow.ca Shouldn’t it be time to Go Travel? At Go Travel, we believe it is our responsibility to ensure all of your travel needs are met. Our experienced consultants have been to over 40 countries and are waiting to help you plan your next vacation. We invite you to Go Travel with us, wherever your imagination takes you! Hanky Pankx #111, 12100 MacLeod Trail SE Calgary, AB T2J 7G9 Phone: 403-266-7399 Ho Ho Ho Inc. #270, 225 – 7th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 2W3 Phone: 403-398-4685 Hummingbird Medical Cosmetic & A. Institute #100, 1919 Sirocco Drive SW Calgary, AB T3Z 3L6 Phone: 403-278-1003 IM Impressions 7 Eggleton Street Red Deer, AB T4R 2L1 Phone: 403-357-2133 Imago Media 79 Kingsbury Cres St. Albert, AB T8N 6X7 Phone: 780-232-4742 www.imagoweddings.com Imago Weddings Videography creates elegant wedding films to capture your special day. With competitive rates and professional service, Imago services the Alberta region. Check out their website or call 780.232.4742 or 403.467.1497 In Motion Style Group Suite 154, 14-9977 – 178 Street Edmonton, AB T5T 6J6 Phone: 780-439-4061

Keli Bridal 2019 New Brighton Dr SE Calgary, AB T2Z 4G8 Phone: 403-620-9867 Kuhlmann’s Floral Boutique 1320 – 167 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5B 4K3 Phone: 780-476-3384 Email: info@kuhlmanns.com Website: www.kuhlmanns.com Kuhlmanns Floral Boutique has been providing custom-designed floral wedding work for over 40 years. From the bride’s and attendants’ bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres, flowers and decorations, we have you covered. Consultation is by appointment with our award winning floral designers and event planners who will work within your budget to make your day fabulous. Delivery is also available on your big day. Lanza La Piazza Dasee Flower Market 7929 – 104 Street Edmonton, AB T6E 4C9 Phone: 780-437-1380 Email: dasee@telus.net Website: www.dasee.ca la piazza dasee (pronounced daisy) creates the “WOW” factor. Ever thought of bling and feathers in your bouquet? Your dream is our design. Our inviting European atmosphere will make your flower selecting a calm and enjoyable experience. Sit with us; enjoy espresso or gelato and we will chat about the perfect flowers for you. We were chosen as “Best Flower Shop” in the Edmonton Journal’s “Worth a Second Look” Awards. Latin Corner Dance Studio Eau Claire Market, 200 Barclay Parade Calgary, AB T2P 4R5 Phone: 403-262-3282 Le Gateau 5402 – 23 Street Edmonton, AB T4Z 1J6 Phone: 780-929-6080 Lexus Edmonton 11204-170 Street Edmontn, Alberta Phone: 780-466-8300 Linen N’ Things www.lnt.com Lit Cosmetics 120 – 10 Street NW Calgary, AB T2N 1V3 Phone: 403-229-2075 www.litcosmetics.com Lit Cosmetics offers over 250 colours and variety of glitter including shimmers, metallics and electrics ranging from subtle glows to intense sparkling actions. The glitter base is made from all organic materials making it hypoallergenic and ideal for sensitive skin. Marble Slab Creamery 300, 1400 Kensington Rd NW Calgary, AB T2N 3P9 Phone: 403-270-5905 Since 1983, we have set our standards of quality unusually high. Every batch of our super premium ice cream is homemade, and we hand-roll our freshly baked waffle cones in each store. As for mix-ins, we offer only the freshest fruits, finest nuts and sweetest candies around. So whatever your order, you can be sure it’s fresh and filled with fabulous flavor.

Marlow & Richards 10123 – 124 Street Edmonton, AB T5N 1P5 Phone: 780-488-4359 Website: www.marlowandrichards.ca

Pure Elements Salon & Spa 152 - 2833 Broadmoor Blvd Sherwood Park, AB T8H 2H3 Tel: (780) 416-4949 Fax: (780) 416-4931

Marlow & Richards Floral Works specializes in one of a kind creations guaranteed to delight your loved one, friend or client. Both our Calgary and Edmonton locations are filled with unique treasures and gifts to compliment our flowers. At Marlow & Richards you'll find a huge assortment of gift items from small trinkets, stuffed bears, and home decor & furnishings. We've got metal and stone fountains, elegant chandeliers and antique cabinets.

Real Engaging Designs 56 Berkley Way NW Calgary, AB T3K 1B6 Phone: 403-471-9077

Mas Catering 110 Tudor Lane Edmonton, AB T6J 3T5 Phone: 780-367-5152 Mayfield Inn & Suites 16615 – 109 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5P 4K8 Phone: 780-484-0821 McMaster Photographers 15004-107 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5P 4S1 Phone 780-489-9898 www.mcmasterphotographers.com McMaster Photographers and Video will capture the romance, the excitement, and the special moments through the eyes of a passionate artist. Our team will work with you to give the candidness and the elegance you deserve in order to make your memories a treasured heirloom, Your special day will come alive time and time again with the beautiful stills or movies that feature you on your wedding day. Our studio facility features state-of-the-art equipment and props. For a free consultation, please phone us.

Meltin’ Pot www.meltinpot.com One of Italy’s top five denim brands! Watch them grow. Offering a variety of denim looks at a price point you can’t resist. Available at Derks southside and westend locations.

Night Owl Imports 2nd floor, 10180 – 101 Street Edmonton, AB T5J 3S4 Phone 780-423-7757 Email: noi@interbaun.com www.nightowlimports.com We love Brides!! We are a very specialized boutique that caters to all your bridal needs. If you want your wedding dress to fit perfectly, come and visit us and we will make sure the correct undergarment is worn to make you look and feel your best. We carry many styles of bustiers, strapless bras, bodysuits, deep plunge bras and every bridal accessory known to the industry. Also for that "special night" we have the most exquisite collection of peignoirs, chemises, babydolls, pajamas etc. in the finest of silk, chiffon, lace and satins from the world's top designers. Come and visit us and we will make your special day even more special!

Riverside PhotoGraphics Phone: 403-646-6258 Toll-free: 1-877-646-6258 ww.riversidephotographics.com A pair of unabashed romantics, Linda and Steve provide thorough, sensitive, two-camera coverage of every tender moment of your special day – the joy, excitement, tears and laughter... the stolen kisses and shared delights. Beautiful custom-designed coffee table books will tell the story of your love. Complimentary engagement session for every couple. Riverside PhotoGraphics... when only the very best will do!

Solace Medical Clinic 36 St. Thomas Street St. Albert, AB T8N 7J6 Phone: 780-419-3627 Sound Decision 9916 – 96 Avenue Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L 1P4 Phone: 780-264-1979 Special Event Rentals 6010 – 99 Street Edmonton, AB T6E 3P2 Phone: 780-435-2211 www.specialeventrentals.com Experience the Difference…leading the way for over 20 years, Special Event Rentals is Western Canada’s largest rental and sales centre and we are pleased to supply you with all of your rental and tent requirements. Our extensive and continuously expanding inventory consists of a complete line of tables, linens, chairs, tents, chocolate fountains, chair covers and ties, catering equipment, and dance floors which are only a few of the 250,000 items readily available for your event! Visit our state-of-the-art 50,000 square foot facility, which showcases a vast array of rental items and décor or shop online!

Strellson www.strellson.com Former owners of Hugo Boss and one of the top clothing brands from Germany. Nobody manufactures better looking suits at this price! Available at Derks southside and westend locations.

Sutton Group – Canwest #242, 755 Lake Bonivista Dr SE Calgary, AB T2J 0N3

The Citadel Theatre 9828 – 101A Ave Edmonton, AB T5J 3C6 The Citadel Theatre Complex is located in the heart of Downtown Edmonton in the Arts District and houses five performing spaces: the Shoctor Theatre; the Maclab Theatre; the Rice Theatre; the Tucker Amphitheatre and Zeidler Hall. A registered charity, we present 13 plays and a Teen Festival each year. We are home to the Eldon and Anne Foote Theatre School which offers theatre classes, workshops and summer camps for children, teens and adults.

The Cupcake Bake Shoppe & Café 17296 Stony Plain Road Edmonton, AB T5S 1K6 Phone: 780-444-8845 The Great Room Company Londonderry Mall NW Edmonton, AB T5C 3C8 Telephone : 780-472-7100 The Paper Tree 10539 – 108 Street Edmonton, AB T5H 2Z8 Phone: 780-421-4747 The Rundlestone Lodge Box 489, 537 Banff Avenue Banff, AB T1L 1A6 Phone: 403-762-2201 The Scroll Shop #101, 10137 – 104 Street Edmonton, AB T5J 0Z9 Phone: 780-423-2545 Truffle Sensations 4219 – 47th Street Edmonton, AB T6L 6J5 Phone: 780-619-5972 Versace www.versace.com Weddings Plus Events Checklist Phone: 780-475-6105 www.weddingsplusevents.com Weddings Plus-Events Checklist is a group of specialized businesses that have come together to offer you a one-stop wedding shop for all of your wedding needs. Everything from the planning stages to the honeymoon, with service and competitive pricing, is ready to help your special day run as smoothly as possible. When you deal with our group of companies, you can do your shopping with just one organization you know you can trust. For more information visit our website and check out our advertisement in this magazine to see the list of services that we provide.

Wedding World 9719-63 Avenue Edmonton, AB T6E 0G7 Phone 780-433-1622 www.weddingworldonline.com

Ovation Catering & Banquets 3790 – 98 Street Edmonton, AB T6E 6B4 Phone: 780-440-7863

“The Sutton Young Guns" are some of Sutton's most successful, dedicated and hardest working Calgary REALTORS. With well over 20 million dollars in Real Estate traded in 2006, this team has helped many newly married couples find their first home. To put this team to work for you, simply call Shannon Armstrong @ (403) 863-4120, Marc Doll @ (403) 561-7218 or Valerie Thoummarath @ (403) 837-2112 and make reference to Bridal Fantasy.

Petals on the Trail 11807 St. Albert Trail Edmonton, AB T5L 2L5 Phone: 780-482-7673

The Balloon Blast Calgary, AB Phone: 403-714-2211 Email: theballoonblast@yahoo.com

For more than 30 years, Wedding World has been helping brides create beautiful weddings. They carry the largest selection of decorations and accessories from bells and bonbonniere supplies to invitations and albums. Whatever your colour or theme, Wedding World can accommodate you. Wedding World brings you a fabulous selection of designer gowns at affordable prices. They carry bridesmaid dresses, mother’s dresses, flower girl dresses, shoes, headpieces and veils. Bridal fashions, invitation decorations and everything in between, Wedding World has it all.

Platinum DJ Services 85 Cresthaven Way SW Calgary, AB T3B 5X9 Phone: 403-870-0974 www.platinumdjservices.com

Balloons have a magical way of adding atmosphere to any party or event, especially weddings. The Balloon Blast Inc. specializes in balloon arches, pillars, sculpture, table décor and centerpieces. We offer free one on one event decorating consultation with our talented event decorator, Tracy Bounil. We also carry wedding accessories, including tiaras. With over ten years experience, The Balloon Blast Inc., has made every occasion a blast!

Yuva Laser Centre #102, 2675 – 36 Street NE Calgary, AB T1Y 5S3 Phone: 403-735-9882 www.yuvalaser.com

Premier Spa Boutique 100 Anderson Road SE Calgary, AB T2J 3X1 Phone: 403-667-9141

At Yuva Laser Centre, our highly trained medical and aesthetic team provides a full range clinically proven procedures for men and women. We endeavour to enhance and restore your natural beauty with a wide variety of non-invasive, result oriented techniques that are affordable and effective. From skincare to body shaping to hair restoration, we can do it all.

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Edmonton 8111-102 Street 10120 - 151 Street 10410 -118 Avenue

www.derks.ca

Calgary 780.433.6614 780.483.1807 780.477.1655

#107, 7004 Macleod Trail SE

403.301.3366

Corporate Office 8109-102 Street

780.433.4600