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PHONE
Contributors Editor-in-Chief
Set design
Gay Derk
ID Bohemia
Associate Editor
Article Contributors
Heidi Dennis
Mandy Bilous Sterling Derk Landon Derk Tim Mohr
Magdalen Bower Michelle Buchanon Jason Cathcart Dr. Deepak Chopra Clara Chorley Liana Chaouli Curtis Comeau Dr. John Demartini Gary Goldstein Shellie Hunt Darren Jacklin Carol Ponder & Robert Kiefer Geoffrey Kozlowski Wayne Lee Caitlin McElhone Gail Vaz-Oxlade Satyen & Suzanne Raja Janice Sarich Kim Switnicki Laurel Vespi Dr. Brenda Wade
Design Consultants
Make-up Artists
Ina Saltz Donald Partyka
Lustre Studio The Modest Kingdom
Design and Production
Hair Stylists
Contributing Editors
Sereena Schneider Mona Struthers Editorial Assistants
Kelsey Larson Linda Lu Creative Direction
The Bridal Fantasy Team Photography and Art Director
Darrell Derk Creative Director
Mandy Bilous Clothing Styling
Marek Konarzaewski Kurt Kowalchuk Sylvia Kysela Kendra Vetter RR Donnelley, Edmonton Graphic Design
Mandy Bilous Marketing & Sales
Mandy Bilous Heidi Dennis Gay Derk Linda Lu Mona Struthers Circulation & Distribution
Heidi Dennis Gay Derk
Lustre Studio The Modest Kingdom Photography
Mandy Bilous Sarah Chung Curtis Comeau Darrell Derk Sterling Derk Grant Olson Eileen Patel Izabela Picco Andras Schram Publishers
Gay and Darrell Derk Derks Media Werks Derks Fine Group of Companies
Bridal Fantasy is published by Derks Fine Group of Companies. Bridal Fantasy Magazine is published once a year. The views and opinions herein do not necessarily represent those of Bridal Fantasy, its publisher, editor or employees. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
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EDITOR’S LETTER
Gay Derk
TH
Anniversary E DITIO N
Follow us on… twitter
@bridalfantasy facebook
www.facebook.com/MyBridalFantasy
Finally, it’s our 10th Anniversary.
We’ve had a complete redesign done by the fabulous Ina Saltz and Donald Partyka out of New York City. We love the new look! To compliment the magazine’s new look, check out www.bridalfantasy.com where you will find we’ve launched a new website and wedding planner. Editing this magazine late last year, I got a sneak peek at all the amazing new bridal fashions for 2011. After receiving a beautiful, sparkling, diamond engagement ring, what is a girl to do other than plan the biggest event of her life. We have Beverly Hills’ Liana Chaouli telling you how to get a gown that is authentic for you. Our bridal section, Ode to Grace, is a tribute to the pure fashion style of Grace Coddington, former model and Creative Director of American Vogue. We explore masculine grace too Kelley McKinley, principal dancer in the fabulous Elton John ballet costume from Alberta Ballet’s Love Lies Bleeding, takes our gown shoot to the next level. The most important ‘grace’ of all is the pure grace of a beautiful bride in love walking down the aisle towards the man she loves.
COVER-ON THE COVER Model: Bronwyn, Déjà Vu Modeling Hair & Makeup: The Modest Kingdom Gown: Bells and Bows Bridal Centre Bridal Coat: Tuxedo Opera Coat in Black from Bells & Bows Bridal Centre Jewelry: Aine Carlisle for Bridal Fantasy Photographer: Grant Olson
This issue is also dedicated to my personal passion with Bridal Fantasy’s Relationship Revolution and our commitment to helping young couples establish great relationships. To this end we brought in the experts. Slice TV’s Gail Vaz-Oxlade for finance, Dr. Deepak Chopra, Dr. Brenda Wade, Dr. John Demartini, Gary Goldstein (Producer of Pretty Woman, and The Mothman Prophecies), Shellie Hunt and many more. A big thanks to all of the Bridal Fantasy team, the artists and photographers that make this issue as amazing as it is. I’d also like to thank my friends Dave, Lara and David for their enthusiasm, efforts and vision to enrich the relationships of the next generation. Your wedding day is an amazing event – it is a true celebration of you, and your family and friends. It marks the start of a truly important journey of the two of you as a couple. So make this moment count. May love be with you always,
Gay Derk Editor-in-Chief gay@bridalfantasy.com
INSIDE COVER Female Model: Bronwyn, Déjà Vu Modeling Male Model: Kelly McKinley, Principal Dancer with the Alberta Ballet Hair & Makeup: The Modest Kingdom Gown: Bells and Bows Bridal Centre Dancer’s Costume: Elton John costume from the Alberta Ballet production of “Love Lies Bleeding” Set Design: Christine Ignacio-Deines from ID Bohemia Jewelry: Aine Carlisle for Bridal Fantasy Photographer: Curtis Comeau
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CONTRIBUTORS
Heidi Dennis Associate Editor Love is patient, love is kind…and in the words of my incredibly astute ninety-six year old grandmother, “You just can’t beat it! … true love that is.” Now that you’ve found your one true love, we hope that Bridal Fantasy Magazine’s content will help inspire your party plans to celebrate this treasure. “5 Ways to WOW Your Reception” and our “What’s NEW, What’s HOT Décor Trends” are full of ideas for a stand-out wedding. Our 10th Anniversary Edition delivers plenty of useful tips to help plan THE day and to empower you to have a loving and lasting marriage. Kim Switnicki’s article in our Relationship Revolution section has amazing insights on how to keep the passion alive. “The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.” – Moulin Rouge
Mandy Bilous Creative & Marketing Director For our 10th anniversary edition we pulled out all the stops. A full magazine re-design with art directors Ina Saltz and Donald Partyka from New York gave us a more modern and ultrachic look. Top photographers like Curtis Comeau and Andras Schram took our shoots to another level, and an amazing hair and makeup team from The Modest Kingdom guaranteed our models looked fabulous. Check out our bridal section for hot looks and ideas for your wedding ensemble. For the grooms we checked out the newest trends to ensure you look fantastic too! It’s your wedding day – make sure you make it your own!
Sereena Schneider Contributing Editor I’m so excited to be a part of Bridal Fantasy Magazine’s 10th anniversary edition! With all of the amazing shoots we’ve done this year, this edition promises to be absolutely fantastic. From shooting with a beautiful costume from the Alberta Ballet, to our winter wonderland shoot at the gorgeous Chateau Lake Louise. There’s sure to be something for each and every bride in this issue, I truly hope you enjoy our 10th issue. Congrats and here’s wishing you a happily ever after!
Mona Struthers Contributing Editor It’s been an exciting year at Bridal Fantasy! In addition to the magazine redesign, this year has seen the launch of a new redesigned Bridal Fantasy website, the expansion of Bridal Fantasy’s social media presence, and focused growth of Bridal Fantasy’s blog. Now Bridal Fantasy is more interactive than ever and there are so many ways to share your stories – and to win prizes. Thanks to all our readers and best wishes to all of the new brides!
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Table of Contents Bridal Fantasy 2011
181 FEATURES 57 116 137 191
Electric Dreams Ode to Grace The Authentic Makeover Married & Moving Forward
Empowerment
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159 Relationship Revolution 161 Experiencing Spiritual Union 163 Love and Laughter 164 How to Have More Fulfilling Relationships 167 Produce Your Own “Box Office” Wedding 184 No Waiting Required
186 How Can We Make This Last Forever? 189 The Empowered Woman 192 Living an Inspired Life Together 194 Magic and The Secret to Having It All 195 Self Talk for Success 196 Love, Luck and the List 198 Learn to Love and Grow Your Marriage 199 Have a Juicy, Passionate and Loving Marriage 200 A Dream of One’s Own
Directory Planning
191
Lethbridge 112 Red Deer 113 Rocky Mountains 114 Gowns 211 Venue 212 Photography 215 Disc Jockey 218 Cakes 218 Grande Prairie 219 Health & Beauty 219 Additional Services 220 Advertiser Listings 220
Extras Celebrating a Fresh New Look 19 Just Ask Gay 23 Wedding Day Numerology 48 Berry Bridal Shake 61 Gifts 135 Cultural Color 182 Effortless Entertaining 202 Charming Children 223
PHOTOGRAPHY Get Ready to Smile! 205 Picture Perfect 206 The Boudoir Bride 208
Invitation Inspiration 35 The Most Beautiful Wedding Day – on Budget! 37 The World Wide Web 40 Five Ways to WOW Your Reception 42 Décor Trends 43 Fabulous Favours 44 Creating Your Cake 46 Petal Power 69 Edmonton Weddings 82 Edmonton Wedding Specialists 84 Calgary Weddings 102 Calgary Wedding Specialists 104
Wedding Watch A Call to Action 169 Military Match 170 Timeless Tradition 172 Unusual Elegance 174 Country Boy Meets City Girl 176
Long Distance Love 178 Celebrity Wedding Watch with CTV’s Erin Isfeld 180
Travel The Great Getaway: Croatia 74 A Honeymoon in French Country Waters 75 Thailand 75 More Than Just a Beach 76 The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise 78 Suitcase Checklist 80
FASHION Guilty Pleasures 63 Flaunt Your Feathers 128 Les Belles du Jour 129 The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Grand Entrance 139 The New Mood for Men 148 Strellson: A Swiss Fashion Label 150 Polished Style 151 His Vow to Wow 152 Sand… A Fashion and Family Affair 153 The Groom: His Personal Touches 156
BEAUTY Ask The Expert: Swedish Jewellers 51 Costume Drama 52
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BEAUTY BEYOND WORDS The perfect girls night out.
Four Seasons & Cantata February 15 - 16, 2010 Serenade & Vigil of Angels April 1 - 2, 2010 Sarah McLachlan – World Premiere May 13 - 14, 2010
Try our Flex Pack and get 3 great ballets at one great price. **Offer Expires February 14, 2010
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For details please contact our Box Office 780.428.6839 or albertaballet.com
**Group rates and wheelchair accessibility avaliable
Performances at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium Alberta Ballet Artists: (top left) Mark Biocca, (bottom left) Davidson Jaconello, (main) Peter Starr. Photography by Charles Hope.
EXTRAS
Ina Saltz and Donald Partyka
Celebrating with a Fresh New Look
Y
ou may have noticed that this issue of Bridal Fantasy has a fresh new appearance. This handsome redesign of Bridal Fantasy, marking its tenth anniversary, is the result of an intensely focused re-imagining and updating of Bridal Fantasy’s mission and style.
It began when Bridal Fantasy’s Creative Director Mandy Bilous met magazine consultant Ina Saltz at AMPA’s conference in Calgary last March, where Ina was the keynote speaker. Mandy thought Ina had some excellent pointers about Bridal Fantasy, so she suggested that we take the next step: we asked Ina to consult on all aspects of Bridal Fantasy’s appearance, from the typography to the imagery, including the formats and underlying structure of our magazine. Ina calls this the “visual vocabulary” of a magazine.
Ina teamed up with her partner, Donald Partyka, and, over the next several months, they worked on establishing a new visual identity for the magazine, starting with the logo (and its new tagline “Your Ultimate Wedding Guide”). They re-organized our editorial material, created new formats and templates, and brought Bridal Fantasy up to date with a whole new palette of color and typography. The goal was to make the Bridal Fantasy experience even better for its readers. Ina and Donald are based in New York City, and they have a long history of design success in the publishing industry. They have collaborated on a number of publications, including Americas Quarterly, which they helped launch and which Donald now art directs. Ina is a frequent presenter at magazine conferences and a longtime faculty member of the Stanford Professional Publishing Course. Our new logo, perhaps the most visible element of our new look, is an elegant, ultra-thin version of the classic sans serif typeface called Helvetica. All of the other typography on the cover and throughout the magazine appears in various weights and sizes of a highly legible slab serif typeface called Archer, which has a modern, crisp look. Archer provides a strong counterpoint to our images and is flexible enough for the wide range of subject matter in Bridal Fantasy. For special occasions in the features, you might occasionally see a “guest” typeface which wil add a dollop of surprise to our editorial mix.
Donald Partyka and Ina Saltz
To help our readers search more easily through all of the wonderful information included in each issue, we have reorganized our editorial content (our articles, columns and departments) and added navigational elements which we hope will help you find what you are looking for. We want to make sure you feel comfortable while exploring our new issue and the issues to come. We think the new format will shine a brighter spotlight on our photographs and artwork, so you can see more clearly what we have created for your enjoyment. We hope you will enjoy our brand new issue, and we’d love to hear what you think about our new look!
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EXTRAS Advice
Just Ask Gay Q A Wedding favours are a nice gesture, but they’re not a necessity. People often
We’re on a tight budget- is it okay not to have wedding favours?
waste their budget on needless gestures. I think it’s too easy to get carried away with details. Sure the tables are nicely decorated and the meal is great, but a wedding should be about celebration, so spend your money on the things that matter to you. Another option is to let guests know you will be accepting donations for your favourite charity at the reception instead of giving favours.
Q
My sister is getting married four months before me and keeps stealing all of my ideas! What should I do?
A If it was only a couple of tiny details then I would advise you to be flattered, if its more then that I would stop discussing your wedding with her and just say that you want to keep the details a surprise for the big day. You could also offer your help while steering her away from your ideas and point her towards new ones.
Q
I’ve just found out my fiance’s friends have organised a stripper for his stag but I don’t really want him to have one. What should I do?
A I think this one is a tricky one, as you don’t want to sound like a bridezilla. You could try speaking with his best man. Looking at the big picture, you’re getting married and spending the rest of your lives together so one night will not ruin it all. Tell him to enjoy himself but to remember to only do what he would not mind you doing.
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Beautiful Bride gorgeous designer gowns chic modest gowns mini princesses perfect finishing touches •
•
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PHOTOGRAPHY by
CHANTAL MILAINE
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PLANNING Invitations
Invitation Inspiration Your invitations set the stage for your wedding. They let your guests know what your theme is and if your wedding will be formal or informal. Make sure that the design and colour scheme of your invitation and wedding stationary (think programs, menu cards, table numbers, etc.) reflect the theme.
O
rder your invitations four to five months in advance and send them out two to three months before your wedding. It’s a good idea to send out a save-thedate card (ten months to a year in advance) so that your guests can make travel arrangements and keep the date open. This is especially important for a destination wedding.
love+design
The Love Collection by love+design includes invitation and wedding stationary designed for life’s occasions. Sofia Morgadinho, designer and accredited wedding planner, believes that all joyous events in life come from love. She uses the personality of that love in her creations. For more information visit www.loveplusdesign.com.
love+design love+design
iBride Invitations
iBride Invitations
If you and your fiancé like unique and different, iBride Invitations can make this happen. Nena Duran, ibride’s invitation designer, can create everything from custom caricatures of you and your groom to online wedding invites that you can email, and post on your facebook page or wedding website. For more information visit www.ibrideinvitations.com.
2011 2011
Photography by Bella Photography, www.bellaphotography.com
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PLANNING Budget
The Most Beautiful Wedding Day – on Budget!
Caitlin McElhone has been planning corporate events and weddings since 2006. Born and raised in Edmonton she studied Clothing & Textile Design and Marketing at the University of Alberta before joining ComLinks Events and I do! I do! Wedding Consultants. Her attention to detail and flare for design have proven the perfect mix for the event & wedding planning industry. She lives, works and plays in downtown Edmonton with her husband Scott.
I
t’s like cheating, being a wedding planner and a bride-to-be at the same time. It’s like knowing all the dirty little secrets of stock market investing, or knowing the secret of how Martha Stewart makes creating your own bridal bouquet and centerpieces look as easy as 1, 2, 3. My husband asked me to marry him one beautiful weekend in Victoria after six years of dating. Even after so many years the proposal came as a complete surprise. The first thing we did was call both sets of parents, but neither were available to answer their phones and share our exciting news! At the time, I had been working (and still am) with ComLinks Events and I do! I do! Wedding Consultants, and had the privilege to help plan some of Edmonton’s most beautiful weddings. Being a wedding planner didn’t eliminate all the stress of planning ‘the most important day of your life’ but it definitely helped us to know where to start. Most brides, most people for that matter, have never planned a birthday party (the mass facebook invite to the bar doesn’t count) for themselves or for others. So how are you possibly expected to plan a wedding for over 100 family and friends without any experience and keep it all on budget? The first question we ask couples in a wedding consultation after “Congratulations! How did you get engaged?” is: “How many people are on your guest list?” and “What is your budget?” These two questions are completely dependent on one another: the number of guests will determine the stretching power of your budget. Big weddings are great and often unavoidable depending on the size of your family, but large numbers also require a larger venue and more
food – the single most expensive budget item. Once we know what the budget is, we ask ‘what are the three most important factors your wedding must have?’ For some couples, the wedding is all about the ceremony. For some, food quality is important, or a hosted bar, for others it’s the flowers, décor, or live music. If you are trying to answer this question for yourself, also think about the people that will be at your wedding – will they be mostly older or younger? Will there be many children attending? And even, what will your guests enjoy the most? At the end of the day, your wedding is not only about you and The Dress, it’s about bringing family and friends together and making sure guests feel welcome and special. Even though a bride’s dress is a very special puzzle piece to the big day, it should not be the focus of your wedding, nor should it consume a significant part of the budget. It’s not realistic to cut corners elsewhere because your dress cost as much as first year University tuition. Remember a bride will always look the most beautiful she has ever been, simply because of that certain glow that would even make flannel pajamas look gorgeous. For my husband and I, the three (ok, it was four) most important wedding details were: (1) quality of food and being able to serve a plated dinner for 150 guests, (2) hosted bar, (3) photography quality & style and (4) a live band at the dance. We love to dance! We also knew that it was important to our families that we had a hosted bar and good quality food: two items that definitely don’t help to decrease your budget. So, we allocated more money to the venue to ensure good food service and quality, but we
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compromised by limiting the amount of time the hosted bar would be open (during the dance only) and included a champagne only cocktail reception and served wine during dinner to help lower liquor costs. We also thought about what else was really important to us, and decided that no lightening bolt would strike down on us if we didn’t have a cake, a rented limo or had party favors at the wedding. Eliminating those three items alone saved us $2800 in wedding expenses. All those ‘must have’ items some people say are essential at your wedding may not be that important to you after all. We asked our guests the next day at brunch, and no one even noticed
we didn’t have a cake or a garter toss — it fact, they said they weren’t missed either.
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What about the venue? Hotels are expensive right? Hotels often get a bad reputation because they can be perceived as too luxurious. It’s true, holding your wedding at a 4- or 5-star hotel won’t save you any pennies, but there are many hotels (even downtown) that offer great service and food quality for a reasonable amount of money. While it is true that you will pay more for a plated meal or buffet dinner at a hotel, you will also benefit from the value-added services they offer which other venues do not. Services
like ballroom setup, the use of hotel-owned stages, podiums, microphones and background music are often included. You can also save money on décor because many hotel ballrooms are already aesthetically pleasing. Many have artificial flower arrangements or basic centerpieces as well as white or black linens and even votive candles you may be able to use. You can often negotiate costs on corkage for liquor and room rates for guests. Not to mention the bridal suite is typically provided free for the couple on their wedding night. When all the wedding details feel like they are spiraling out of control, remember: keep it simple. That mantra can also help to control the budget: is it really necessary that your wedding invitation have three layers of paper and two envelopes with monogram or wax seal? Why not try a website at which guests can RSVP, or have them call or email you? Remember, paper is heavy and often the layered invitation will cost you much more in stamps than you ever thought possible. What about flowers? Is it really necessary that parents, readers, grandparents, ring bearers, ushers, greeters and the MC all have a boutonnière or a corsage to wear? Probably not. For groom and groomsmen boutonnieres, try asking the florist about non-flower options (greenery only), this can often be a cheaper alternative and create a more masculine and simple look. My husband and I (well, mostly me) really wanted our wedding to have a simple elegance. We wanted to be able to look at our pictures in 10, 20, 40 years and not be embarrassed by how dated we looked. We kept colour to a minimum and used a more monochromatic theme for the décor, flowers and even the groomsmen’s rented suits (no vest or fancy tie). Compromising here meant not having to match everything with everything else, saving us money and resulting in a wedding with an elegant, timeless feel. For the table centerpieces, we used a very minimalistic arrangement — just one colour and type of flow-
er with foliage in a tall thin vase. We worked with the florist to choose seasonal flowers and saved even more money by alternating a floral centrepiece with a complimentary foliage-only centerpiece on the dinner tables. Our wedding was one year ago in June and our guests are still (to my surprise) talking about it. My husband and I didn’t take out a ‘wedding credit card’ or need a line of credit to pay for the wedding bills. We were fortunate to have financial help from our wonderful parents but we also matched them dollar for dollar, and capped the budget at a maximum amount (with no exceptions!). Yes, it helped that I knew a few insider secrets, but even for a novice, it is possible to keep on budget. Remember to keep it simple, be reasonable and, like shopping in a great clothing store, you don’t have to have buy all the new seasonal trends. You can have just as much (or even greater) impact with a few classic pieces. Quick Money Saving Tips for your Big Day!
Chair Flair Linen Rentals and Event Decor
Chair Flair specializes in providing professionally dry cleaned and hand pressed linen rentals at affordable prices. We offer a variety of Chair Covers, Sashes, Table Overlays and other wedding décor that is sure to add that special touch of elegance to your special day! Contact us directly for a quote, or to find out more about our discounted pricing and monthly specials. Shannon Collins www.chairflair.ca • 403.923.8751 • chairflair@shaw.ca
1. Create a realistic budget with columns for ‘estimated’ costs and ‘actual’ costs and update it regularly. Be honest and include ALL costs (including gratuity and taxes), and review the budget weekly with anyone contributing money. 2. Make a list of the top three most important items to you (and your fiancé). These top three items will consume the largest majority of your wedding budget. 3. Be flexible with your vision and expectations. When on a budget, you might not have the luxury to demand the exact image you see in your head (or you saw in a wedding magazine). Share your ideas — and your budget — with florists, venues and rental companies, and let them help you with a fabulous creation or suggestion you might not have considered on your own. They, not you, are the experts. 4. Remember it’s only ONE day out of the rest of your life. Don’t sweat the small stuff (and it’s often the small stuff) that adds up and can make your budget burst at the seams.
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PLANNING Online
The World Wide Web . . .
A Bride’s Best Wedding Organizer
W
edding planning has become a lot less complicated and a great deal more efficient thanks to online planning and social media tools on the internet. In particular, wedding websites are increasingly being used by engaged couples today. Wedding websites are not only a great way to update family and friends about the wedding planning experience - guests can also use them to obtain details about the wedding day and other wedding related topics. Couples often share stories from their relationship, the proposal, save the date details, gift registry information, polls, quizzes and other wedding related party details with family and friends.
You can create your own customized, userfriendly, and attractive wedding website with the help of well established online wedding planning sites such as WeddingBells.ca, The Knot, mywedding.com and eWedding. They all provide free website design tools and templates to help you do just about anything: keep track of your vendors and appointments, email your family & friends, enable your guests to RSVP online, upload photos, music & videos, and add your wedding registries. Other popular ways of use your wedding website include: •
Linking your page to your social media networks (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, a personal blog, etc.) to increase the interaction and communication with your guests throughout your wedding journey.
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Adding a simple and private contact form to allow guests to quickly email you changes to their mailing address in case they’ve moved since you first sent out your wedding invitations. This will truly be a life saver when you’re writing out your Thank You cards after your honeymoon.
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Including a “Go Green” component! Consider dedicating a section of your website to making your wedding more environmentally friendly. Invite friends and family to share their ideas and advice. There are so many green options and ideas nowadays that your friends and family are bound to have some great ideas under their sleeves.
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If you are encouraging your wedding guests to support a charity at your reception (through donations at the bar, etc.), link your website to the charity’s website so they can learn more about it, or make a donation ahead of time.
Wedding websites are unbelievably useful for today’s engaged couples. With the vast amount of resources available online to help with almost every aspect of the wedding planning process, planning a wedding has truly become a blissful time for many brides and grooms. So enjoy the exciting journey and let your imagination run free!
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PLANNING Reception
Five Ways to WOW Your Reception Jason Cathcart is the Lead Entertainer for Dance! Shout! Productions, a company that he owns with his business partner and wife, Erin. Dance! Shout! Productions provide fun, professional and personalized emcee and entertainment services for couples who want their wedding to make a statement. For more information visit www.danceshout.com
Every couple wants their wedding guests to enjoy themselves and have fun. But how can you make your reception truly memorable? Try any of these ideas to ensure that your guests keep saying “wow” over the course of your party. Use your imagination and add touches that reflect who you are as a couple.
Hire A Professional MC Professional MCs have been trained in the art of making your guests feel comfortable. Whether the reception is classy or laid-back, a professional MC will keep the flow and pace you set for the reception and ensure that your guests feel included. By keeping your guests informed and telling great, and most importantly, appropriate stories, your MC will help make those who may not know everyone in the room feel comfortable and welcome.
Hire A Professional Entertainer or Entertainers From bands and DJs to comedians, magicians, or even living statues, professional entertainment is exactly that – entertaining! Whatever your tastes - with a little effort you should be able to find the perfect entertainment for your reception. You might choose to celebrate your heritage – Bagpipers if you’re Scottish, Taiko Drummers if you’re Japanese, or Hopak Dancers if you’re Ukrainian! Entertainers promise to create a fun and memorable experience your guests won’t soon forget.
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Make Personalized Recordings If you are one of those people who will be too emotional to give a speech at the reception you could work with your DJ to record your heartfelt words ahead of time. Surprise your significant other with your recorded words mixed into your first dance music or your dad during the father daughter dance. It will leave not only them, but the rest of your guests, looking for the tissues.
Use Custom Event Lighting Turn your reception venue from drab to fab with customized lighting. Use up-lighting to accentuate the venue’s architectural features or to draw attention to feature areas (the cake, head table, etc.) to wow your guests when they enter the room. Lights can be set to match or compliment the colors of your décor choices. Lighting can be set to fade through multiple colors, change at important points in the evening, and even to move with the music once the dancing begins.
Use Special Effects Imagine entering your reception hall through a curtain cloud creation and then walking onto a dance floor covered with low-lying fog for your first dance. As you’re dancing amongst the clouds your groom dips you and a light dusting of snow comes down from above. Welcome to the world of special effects, where anything you dream up can be made a reality. From fireworks to light shows, you can create a “wow” moment in your wedding that everyone will be sure to remember.
PLANNING Decor
Décor Trends What’s NEW, what’s HOT when it comes to wedding decor? Incorporate any of these 3 ideas into your look for cutting-edge wedding style. Chiavari Chairs The #1 requested chair in event decor. Classic and elegant, these chairs provide the style needed to take any decor to the next level. The latest colors available include: Fruitwood, Natural and Crystal. Available at Special Event Rentals, www.specialeventrentals.com
Product photography by Bella Photography, www.bella-photography.com
DIVA Candelabra Make a statement your guests won’t soon forget with this stunning crystal candelabrum. For the bride who wants the very best. Available at Special Event Rentals, www.specialeventrentals.com
Gardenia Kissing Ball An alternative to the traditional rose ball. Available in 12” and 18”, pink, red, yellow and white, these pretty pieces give your centerpiece high impact with little effort. Set them on Milano Urns or hang them in clusters around the room. Getting married outdoors? Hang them from branches in the trees for soft pops of color. Available at Special Event Rentals, www.specialeventrentals.com
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PLANNING Favours
Fabulous favours Although small, favours play a large role in your wedding. They act as a thank you, a keepsake and décor for your tables. Keep the following things in mind when deciding on the perfect item to give each guest: your wedding theme and color, and your budget. Would you like the favours to reflect you as a couple? Do you want them to be personalised with your names and wedding date? Is it important for you to have a favour that will last forever as opposed to one that’s perishable?
Customized Tea Create your own love blend. Choose from a variety of colours, flavours and tea bag styles and ribbon. Available at Lavendar Cove, www.teas-online.com
Asian Inspired Box A crafty way to add flair to your table setting. Available at Evergreen Stationers, www.evergreenstationers.com
Photography by Bella Photography, www.bella-photography.com
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A Taste of Scotland For a Celtic touch, treat your guests to a jar of Scottish jam or a piece of shortbread adorned with a tartan ribbon. Available at Scottish Imports, www.anythingscottish.com
Miniature Phantom Chairs Despite their illusory nature, these miniature Phantom chairs won’t fade into the background. Use them to present a small chocolate or truffle, or as a place card holder. These chairs will take your table dÊcor to an entirely new level of elegance. Available at Special Event Rentals, www.specialeventrentals.com
Personalized Ribbon The perfect finishing touch for any wedding favour; customized ribbon with your names and wedding date in your wedding colours. Available at Trans Canada Weddings, www.transcanadaweddings.com
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PLANNING Cakes
Creating Your Cake
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t most weddings there are two main anticipations: the beautiful bride… and the cake! The modern wedding cake is a combination of creativity, taste and unparalleled beauty. Now, there are more options and variety than ever when it comes to choosing a cake that reflects your personal style and wedding theme.
A traditional cake consists of tiers varying in size and shape. These tiers are decorated with various ribbons, flowers and figurines. Cake decorators are capable of producing masterpieces with marzipan, fondants, chocolate and icings. Professionals are happy to work with couples to create unique, personalized cakes that are complementary to the theme and style of the wedding.
Cake Couture
Too Nice to Slice
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When choosing your cake artist, be sure to check to see that they are licensed. Choosing an unlicensed cake maker means you have absolutely no recourse if something happens to your cake, and it leaves you liable for any illness resulting from the cake. In addition - if the provincial licensor finds out your cake maker is operating without a license they could be immediately shut down. That leaves you without a cake for your wedding day. Another thing to consider is skill. Can they make the cake you’re dreaming of? The easiest way to determine this is to look at examples of their work. You can often get a sense of how experienced and professional they are from how they present themselves. You can also ask if they are a part of any professional organizations, like International Cake Exploration Society (ICES). A wedding cake is a piece of artwork. You must find the design that is perfect for you and an artist that can make your dream cake. This should be done as far in advance as possible. Once these two items
are taken care of, you will be surprised at how quickly things move along. You also have to consider your budget when choosing your cake designer. A budget of $1000 is a safe bet when you are looking for a cake with two or three tiers from a high end cakery. Themed and specially designed cakes covered in fondant will cost more. That said; do not simply choose your wedding cake based on pricing. Your wedding cake will be a focal point at your wedding. This is a part of your wedding you should indulge on. Quality is not expensive…it’s Priceless! If you’re gluten or lactose intolerant, diabetic, Vegan or just plain health-conscious (eco friendly), there’s no need to worry. Limited bakers now have redesigned their recipes to replace anything animalderived, and without sacrificing on flavor! A quick search on the internet should help you find a cakery close to you that specializes in these recipes. There are 3 general types of cake in North America. Pound cake - the heaviest and mostly used in the US. Genoise - lighter and has a rich moist texture (most commonly chosen in Alberta) and Sponge Cake - the lightest. Sponge is not recommended if you are stacking or tiering your wedding cake, as that style of cake cannot support additional weight. A cake’s flavor can be anything you choose. So long as it tastes good, you can use it! The filling is the delicious layer
Second Slice
Second Slice
Cake Couture of cream, custard, mousse, frosting, chocolate ganache or dolce leite used to keep the layers of cake together. You can have a small cake for the cutting ceremony and compliment it with a tiered stand of layered cupcakes if you want a variety of flavours. Frosting is important to the look of your cake and adds a sweet finish to each bite. Rolled chocolate – otherwise called chocolate fondant, chocolate plastic or plastique, is becoming very popular. Chocolate covering is being used more and more often for wedding cakes as well as groom’s cakes. Buttercream frosting is the choice for traditional cakes as it can be used to make a plethora of wonderful designs. However, the frosting of choice for the modern couple is the fondant – a shimmery, satiny covering that can be used to make intricate designs and spectacular accents.
for things like notification of allergies and flowers. A good contract ensures that you and the vendor clearly understand exactly what you expect. Geoffrey Kozlowski is the CEO at Second Slices Cakery Inc. located in Sherwood Park, AB. For more visit www.secondslices.ca.
Too Nice to Slice
For a fun twist on the traditional, ask for personalized cake toppers. These custom or themed figures can be realistic, impressions or fantasies of what the couple would like to be. Although pricey, these personal toppers can make a big splash. Finally, in the end this is a business, and you need to take care to draw up a contract with your cake maker. The contract should cover all the details of your order, and include a sketch or make reference to any photos you’ve provided before the final order is signed. It will include all delivery and setup fees along with the date, time, price and caveats
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EXTRAS Advice
Wedding Day Numerology … Consult The “Numbers” For Your Special Day
Michelle Buchanan is an International Numerologist and Certified Law of Attraction Practitioner based in Auckland, New Zealand. She is the resident Numerologist for TVNZ’s “Good Morning” show and “Woman’s Day” magazine. Michelle is also an Inspirational Speaker, Spiritual Teacher and Author, www.michellebuchanan.co.nz
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or many a wedding day is the most important and magical day of a person’s life. It is a day where nothing else in the world matters except the ceremony and celebration of a commitment of love between bride and groom, family and friends. However, it can also be one of the top 5 most stressful days in life where it is absolutely essential that everything flow “perfectly” according to plan, right down to the butter cream icing on the cake! Although your Wedding Day Numerology is not going to make or break your marriage (only the future compatibility of your personal numbers can do that), it can however play an important role in the way your wedding day unfolds and the type of events that do, or in some cases “do not”, occur. When you’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain, why not consult the numbers to give your special day its best possible chance for success? So grab a pen and paper and start working out your numbers! To Calculate Your Wedding Day Number Step 1. Add all of the numbers of your wedding date together to get a double digit Number ie. 10/15/2011 = 1 + 0 + 1 + 5 + 2 + 0 + 1 + 1 = 11
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Step 2. Add the double digit numbers together to get your Single Digit Wedding Day Number ie. 11 = 1 + 1 = 2
Wedding Day Number 2
Wedding Day 1: The 1 Wedding Day represents a new beginning and the courage to forge ahead and walk the path less travelled. 1 likes to be number 1 so this day will definitely stand out and make its mark on the world. 1 promotes practicality and originality, but it can also promote competition. Wedding Day 2: The 2 Wedding Day represents love, partnership and making a commitment. 2 likes to be part of a twosome and is dedicated to promoting peace and harmony in relationships and home. 2 represents balance, taking care of details and working behind the scenes to ensure things run smoothly on the day. 2 is a very favourable day for a wedding. Wedding Day 3: The 3 Wedding Day is perfect for any social event as 3 represents fun, communication and expression. It can be the perfect day to express your love and communicate your vows, but it can also be a day where things can get out of hand. Make this day a success by keeping it as simple as possible, plan carefully and pay attention to details.
Wedding Day 4: The 4 wedding day promotes the “building of a solid foundation” for home and family. It represents dedication and honesty, but it can also represent extra effort and hard work. This is a day where organisation and routine is preferred. 4 is a good solid, grounded and reliable number, but many Asian cultures feel it is bad luck. Wedding Day 5: Anything can happen and it usually does with the number 5, as 5 is the number of change and unexpected events. 5 also promotes travel, freedom and adventure so it’s a favourable day to begin a honeymoon rather than get married, unless you can be flexible and “go with the flow” should things not go according to plan. Wedding Day 6: The 6 Wedding Day represents love, home, family and domestic responsibility. It is the perfect day for a wedding. 6 is all about making a commitment and taking your responsibilities seriously, it is also a good number for family, friends and children. 6 is the most grounded number of all and will not let you down. Wedding Day 7: The 7 Wedding Day is perfect for a religious or spiritually based ceremony and commitment, as 7 is the number of mind, body and spirit and the personal growth that will be accomplished together. This day will run smoothly if this marriage is based upon truth and honesty.
Wedding Day 8: The 8 Wedding Day represents karma, money and power. This wedding could end up costing a pretty penny as physical appearance and making a good impression is very important to the 8. This can also be a very fortunate day as long as you show honestly and integrity in all your wedding dealings. Wedding Day 9: Number 9 represents endings, out with old and in with the new. Typically it isn’t advisable to begin something on a 9 day however a marriage on this day can also symbolise “the end of an era of being single” as you embark upon your journey together. This day will run smoothly as long as you take precautions to avoid family conflicts. Don’t be discouraged if you have already planned your wedding day on what may be considered an unfavourable day, for there is something that can override the power of numbers. It is the unshakable and magical power of your mind! So use your thoughts, beliefs and intention to visualise your special day unfolding exactly as you wish and the Universe will adjust itself accordingly to make your dream come true. Regardless of what the psychics, stars or numbers say, “What you believe to be; will be” and your intention holds the key.
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WHY SETTLE FOR LESS THAN PERFECTION View our entire collection at heartsonfire.com
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BEAUTY
Jewelry
Ask The Expert: Swedish Jewellers Engagement and Wedding Rings Q Cut, colour, clarity, weight, shape – which is the most important in your opinion? A The most important aspect when selecting a
designers to choose from, like Hearts on Fire, Scott Kay, Gravure and Precision Set; as well as the world famous tension set diamond rings by Steven Kretchmer.
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diamond is cut since it determines the brilliance and fire of the diamond. Colour is the second most important aspect because that’s what the human eye detects.
When do you suggest couples start shopping for their wedding bands? What other important things do couples need to consider?
While many diamonds appear colorless, or white, they may actually have subtle yellow or brown tones that can be detected when comparing diamonds. Colorless diamonds are the rarest and most valuable of all. Clarity is an indication of a diamond’s purity, however if you don’t see any flaws with the naked eye it becomes purely an academic discussion. Carats is a unit of weight (five carats is equal to one gram). In order to identify smaller stones the one carat has been divided into 100 points. To turn a rough diamond into a beautiful gem, the diamond must be cut to very precise proportions within each facet.
as important as shopping for the engagement ring, and should never be left to the last minute. Shopping, selecting, and customizing bands should commence 6 months before the big day, so your bands are ready 2 months in advance.
Al Rysko (left), owner operator of the 10,000 square foot Swedish Jewellers showroom and Dorene Bateman (right), Marketing Director have been working together for over 10 years.
What are your thoughts on custom work? What are some ways to add your own personal touch to the rings you choose?
BIO:
Q From the starring role Carrie’s black
diamond ring played in Sex and the City 2 to the website crashing demand for Kate’s 18-carat sapphire, it seems as though Hollywood and royalty are embracing colour when it comes to their rocks! Is colour a trend that’s here to stay?
A Today, many women are choosing rubies, sapphires, emeralds and coloured diamonds (pink, yellow and black are the most popular). The colour trend is becoming increasingly popular and it’s here to stay.
Q A The classic engagement ring is the simple
A Shopping for wedding bands is equally Q
A Customization is the latest trend in wedding bands and we offer a number of ways to do this. You can opt for laser engraving on the girdle of the diamond (the date, names of the couple or a vow). We have inserted birthstones as a mystery diamond either embedded in the ring or as an accent gem.
Q A For engagement rings, the Hearts on Fire
Which new designer stands out the most in your mind and why? brand boasts ‘the most perfectly cut diamond in the world’. Under a firescope, there are six perfect hearts side by side giving the diamond an absolute ‘fire’ when looked at with the naked eye.
Swedish Jewellers has been part of the Edmonton luxury jewellery and watch landscape for over 60 years. Located in the heart of downtown, Swedish Jewellers represents over 35 watch and jewellery brands from all corners of the globe. Hearts on Fire, Canadian diamonds, and Rolex are a few of their leading brands. Their specialty wedding services include in-house custom design of engagement rings and wedding bands, with a custom designer and certified gemologist on staff.
For a classic and timeless look, which designer would you recommend?
but elegant diamond solitaire, mounted in gold or platinum. Today however there are numerous
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BEAUTY
Jewelry
Costume Drama Jewelry lovers take note! Colour is not just for spring and uptown chic doesn’t have to mean a simple strand of pearls. It’s about energizing your wedding day look with some of Bridal Fantasy’s hottest new pieces.
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Earings and Necklace by Aine Carlisle for Bridal Fantasy
Pearls of Wisdom: Reinvent the uptown classic with an elegant spin. Jewel Notes: Embrace some of this bridal season with Bridal Fantasy’s more opulent pieces. Colour Crush: Feel the power of the hot new electric shades for a standout statement.
Pearls by Bridal Fantasy Jewelry
Headpiece by Bridal Fantasy Jewelry Earrings by Aine Carlisle for Bridal Fantasy
Bracelet from Ladybird Bridal Designs Hair & Make-up by The Modest Kingdom
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BEAUTY
Hair / Make-up
Electric Dreams:
Prince Nikolas Syhatheb We are all so lucky to be a part of the year 2011 where authenticity is celebrated and not hidden. Right now the trend is mixing in the new with the old. To create the look of 2011, mix 50’s and 80’s with a hint of 90’s.
Just for you…we’ve brought in one
or example, in Michelle’s makeup we used soft blush colours, without all the hard contour lines we saw last year and kept with the winged eyeliner. Her eye shadow very rounded (very 50’s), with the electric blue making a big appearance on her eyes. Also in the style of the winged eye line we have the influence of the 80’s. The non-blending (or non-connecting) effect brings us hint of the 90’s. Creating your look for your wedding day used to be so much about “what is the trend of makeup” and how do I become the trend? Today it is so much about combining trends with your authentic self. In order to make trends work for yourself, and for anyone that I have worked on, I always stick to layering; like when you mix the 50’s with the 80’s or your blues with your whites, golds, or better yet – both!
looks in our beauty section.
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of our favourite makeup artists, Prince Nikolas. Nikolas created the fresh and inspiring makeup
“Electric Dreams” shows you how to incorporate the fashion trend of electric coloured shadows into the perfect look to suit your colouring. It also shows you how to create a gorgeous overall look that will take his breath away.
I always start building someone’s look by simply asking them: Do you want to be the magazine bride or the “natural” bride? Generally I get a smash up of “I want a bit of both …but I want the bride glow.” Ahhhh…the infamous “glow.” That glow starts off with having the perfect skin, and it is up to you to start that cycle well before your big day. It is about hydrating your skin, which includes your lips, hands, feet, face, neck…YOUR WHOLE BODY! Having beautiful skin allows for your application to go on smooth and aids in having that glow we all desire. My next advice-have a focus. If you’re all about your eyes and love a strong eye line don’t forget about your eye brows. If the eyes are the window to a woman’s soul, her eyebrows are frames to that windowtry adding bottom lashes for a dramatic effect and smudge some color underneath. If you’re a lot more subtle with your eyes make sure that you follow your creases with a slightly darker colour that your skin tone. Matte shades in two colors, and above the crease blend in your blush color in ever so lightly.
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BEAUTY
Hair / Make-up
If your focus is on your lips, try layering on different colours. Create a smoky lip by mixing a deep, dark plum matte with a matte fuchsia (no liner) then blend and add an iridescent lip gloss to the centre, which gives you a plumper-looking up and a nice finish! Don’t forget your cheeks! To ensure your cheeks are visible layer two or three colors. My favourite combo is adding a bronzer to the hollows of the cheeks, the temples and jaw line, adding an apricot blush from the hair line to the beginning of the apples, and finishing the apples of your cheeks with a faded strawberry colored blush. It sounds like a lot of layering and a lot of coloring but that is why we call it “building your look”. Layering your look can get out of control-so play around have fun with friends so when it comes to your day you’re already a pro.
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BEAUTY  
Hair / Make-up
Adding fun colors like fuchsia, blues and greens to your eyes doesn’t have to result in a theatrical look unless that it what you are going for, It can be very romantic. Playing with different shades of colors like adding a bold purple to your crease while using a sharp white to wash the color down to your eyelash line and accenting your eyes with a baby blue sparkly liner is a way to amp up some color that looks great in person and great in a photo. I have always been a fan of using bold shadows in two tones rimming the lash lines of the bottom lashes ill start with a strong forest green and fade it into a gold going towards the inner corner. for this trick make sure that the lashes on the bottom getting a generous coating of mascara, note you must make sure that your bottom lashes are combed out and separated for all looks-it makes your eyes appear more fresh, young, magical and doll like.
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BEAUTY
Hair / Make-up
Solar Skin These days everyone knows how damaging the suns’ rays can be to your skin. Here’s some things you can do to help prevent damage to your skin and keep your face looking picture perfect. • use water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher that protects against both UVA and UVB rays • apply lotion 20 – 30 minutes before exposure to the sun, taking care to cover the face, neck, ears, feet and hands • reapply sunscreen every two hours (more if you’ve gone swimming) • avoid the sun during 10 am – 2 pm when the rays are the strongest • wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for extra protection
Polished Technique Your hands will be on display for your big day, from your groom putting a ring on your finger to cutting the cake, so take care to lavish them with some TLC. 2011
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A French manicure is the ultimate grooming statement and popular choice for brides as it gives such a healthy, natural look to your nails. Make sure to condition your hands before with a great hand and cuticle cream. Whether a French manicure or your favourite colour, make sure to try it out before hand.
EXTRAS
Health
Berry Bridal Shake Kick start your day with a BOOST from Simply For Life’s Bridal Berry shake! It’s packed with protein and antioxidants that will ensure you look your best and stay energized leading up to your big day. Blend: 1 cup skim milk 1 cup berries of choice (fresh or frozen, unsweetened) 100g low fat yogurt 4 pasteurized egg whites or 4oz tofu 1 tsp wheat germ or ground flaxseed 2 ice cubes
Look and feel your best on your big day... and every day after with nutrition consulting and meal planning from Simply For Life. Nutrition. Education. Lifestyle.
For more information,
visit www.simplyforlife.com
Sherwood Park 780-449-1434 80 Sioux Road info.sherwoodpark@simplyforlife.com Spruce Grove 780-960-5461 505 Queen Street info.sprucegrove@simplyforlife.com
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FASHION 
lingerie
Guilty Pleasures W earing 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 continued
Night Owl Imports
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Sheer Fusion Lingerie
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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. You should set some time aside to choose the right wedding lingerie for your wedding night. Plan to spend some serious time at the store or browsing online. Choose something that is smooth, soft, and silky. It should be very alluring because your goal is to drive your new husband crazy! Every woman wants their first night as a married woman to be a night that is always remembered both by her and her husband. Choosing the right color is very important. White and red seem to be the best colors options because they are very sensual and go with almost any skin tone. White gives you an ‘angelic’ appearance while red is the opposite. A couple of key things: whatever you choose should complement your body and be fairly easy to remove. You don’t want to be fighting with your lingerie while your new husband is waiting for you! 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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Night Owl Imports
FASHION
lingerie
Sheer Fusion Lingerie
SURPRISE the GROOM with elegant bridal boudoir images
Capture one of the most beautiful times in your life and give him a gift that will leave him speechless. All boudoir sessions are photographed in private by a female photographer. The boudoir sitting fee is $150. Call us at (800) 213-0874 or visit our website to book your session.
Boudoir Photography www.taitboudoir.com
“The boudoir session was a very fun and liberating experience and con�dence booster. Like most women, I can be pretty self-conscious about my body, but once I got into the session I was very relaxed. Erica does a great job of making you feel comfortable and posing you in the most �attering ways. She helped me to feel completely con�dent, and that de�nitely shows in my images. The photos are a wedding gift for my �ance, and I am S�RE he will be �abbergasted! I can�t believe how great the images turned out!” ~ Arielle Walters
TAIT Photography TAIT Photography was recently featured on VIRGIN 98.5 THE MORNING SHOW with Marc, Dani & Fuzzy. Visit our blog to check 2011 out the photos www.taitboudoir.com/blog BRIDAL FANTASY www.bridalfantasy.com
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www.jsgroup.com
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PLANNING Flowers
Petal Power
B
ouquets are the stunning accent to your wedding gown. They don’t have to be big or be dazzling to complement the overall look of your day. Today’s floral designers create bouquets that are singular fashion accessories for brides. Shades of white dominate but many brides use brilliant shades of red, fuchsia, turquoise, teal and coral.
Flowers by Avenida Grower Direct
Dress by Bells & Bows Bridal Centres Flowers by Kuhlmanns Greenhouse
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PLANNING Flowers
Kuhlmanns Greenhouse
Your bouquet should reflect the feelings and sentiment of your wedding day and your celebration of love.
Holes Greenhouse
A bouquet sometimes doesn’t even feature flowers. Grasses and branches can be used in arrangements that become “un-bouquets.” Whether you include your initials, a family heirloom pin, or a secret, special touch representing your love and memories, it’s important for you to add a personal touch to your bouquet.
Wild Orchid
Flower Fusion
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Marlow & Richards
la piazza dasee
Orchids remain the rage but are intertwined with feathers, crystals, or wires.
la piazza dasee
These bouquets from la piazza dasee definitely make a statement. The Purple Fan (top) is for a more adventurous bride and includes liatris, peacock feathers, calla lilies and dahlias. The tassled tail adds a touch of whimsy. The Purple Crystal (bottom) combines a classic look with a streak of fun. Emphasis is placed on the details. A simple cluster of cyms and white feathers are held by the solid crystal handle – a definite showstopper and sure to please!
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More than a destination
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TRAVEL Destination
Great Getaway
Croatia Croatia is filled with the pleasures a timeless nature. Along the long coastline of the Istria Peninsula, ports bustle with fisherman, sailboats, and yachts. As the boats glide up the pine-fringed coastline, no cruise is complete without a stop in Dubrovnik. And in Dalmatia, the cities are alive with nightlife and ancient Roman ruins. 2011
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If you are a connoisseur of fine food, wine, or simply love tasty and healthy food, Croatia is a definite honeymoon destination. Just imagine starting your day at one of Croatia’s famous spas or mineral springs and then head over to explore different wine cellars along the coast.
TRAVEL Destination
A Honeymoon Cruise in French Country Waters Cruise along the tranquil French canals in an epicurean barge. The barge slowly meanders beside the exquisite landscape at four miles per hour. You see chateaux galore and vineyard-covered rolling hills. The culinary offerings include: a to-die-for assortment of cheeses (3 at each meal), savoury sauces, quiche, escargot and pastry paired with premium French wines. Simply inhale the French scenery or choose to walk or bike alongside. C’est magnifique! You can also take a guided tour to a quaint French town or winery. For a rural, relaxing honeymoon full of wine and history, try The Loire region. Paris is a city built on it s reputation for romance. Travel for friends and family can be a bit expensive but on the plus side there are plenty of hotels available. To avoid disappointment you should be aware of the rules and regulations when taking wedding photos at popular locations like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower.
Thailand
Thailand is world-renowned for its white sandy beaches, exotic flavorfilled food, and warm hospitality. Along with it’s authentic culture, carefree people, and fun-seeking lifestyle, Thailand is truly a must experience getaway destination. So immerse yourself in Thailand’s rich-culture and visit its amazing tourist attractions . . . Try freshly prepared Thai style noodles from food vendors in Damnoen Saduak’s floating market and get pampered right on the beach with an amazing massage, pedicure, and manicure. And be prepared to be in awe of the beautiful architecture and intricate detail of the Grand Palace which is home of the Thai King and the Royal Court.
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TRAVEL Destination
More than just a Beach When you mention a destination wedding most people think of a tropical location with white sandy beaches and Caribbean blue water. Although tropical locations can make excellent wedding destinations, there are several other destinations you can consider for your wedding day. As a bride you should take your time and consider what best suits your style and budget. The perfect destination may be a bustling European city or a remote country side vineyard. To give you a few ideas here are some not so typical wedding locations that we have photographed at in the past year. Rome, Italy Rome is without question one of the top wedding destinations in Europe. There are a abundant amount of churches are however most of them are Roman Catholic. Your reception will surely be an unforgettable event as Italians make every meal a festive
occasion. Photographic locations are around every corner so you don’t have to travel far for AMAZING photos. Jasper, Alberta Want to stay in Alberta? Why not consider the Canadian Rockies as a destination? Jasper offers a wide range of hotels, which can also dub as your reception location. Excellent outdoor sites include Pyramid Lake or Maligne Canyon. Travel is fairly easy and an affordable option for most guests. Kelowna, BC Kelowna is an excellent destination if you want to stay in Canada. Kelowna offers a wide variety of ceremony locations, which include beaches and beautiful wineries. One of the standing and free photography locations is The Summerhill Pyramid Winery. Their show vineyard is an excellent backdrop for memorable bride and groom wedding photos.
Okanagan Lake, Kelowna
San Francisco, California If you want to travel outside of Canada but keep your travel costs low consider San Francisco or the Livermore Wine Region. You could have your ceremony at the Garre Winery in the Livermore Valley, and an hour later could be taking your wedding photographs with the Golden Gate bridge as your back drop. There are dozens of beautiful indoor and outdoor ceremony locations in the San Francisco area. Curtis Comeau www.curtiscomeau.com
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San Francisco
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FEATURE Destination
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in the Rocky Mountains
Imagine saying “I do” in heart of the Rockies. It gets better… in a castle… on one of the most pristine lakes in the world. This location offers a wedding backdrop unlike any other. The Chateau is a one-of-a-kind venue because it’s the only hotel on Lake Louise.
The Victoria Terrace Ballroom
If you can dream it, the Chateau Lake Louise will do their best to make it happen. This past 2010 wedding season they accommodated the first ever outdoor reception for hundreds in a clear tent. For a recent New Years wedding a private cocktail and hot chocolate ice-bar was set-up on the lake for guests to enjoy. Bridal Fantasy Magazine recently had the chance to sit down with Chad Mendelman the Chateau’s wedding expert. He gave us the inside scoop on everything wedding when it comes to tying the knot at this breathtaking gem. From intimate affairs to full-blown parties, the Chateau is more than happy to work with you to make your wedding wishes come true.
The 411 on Chateau Weddings Number of guests that can be accommodated – 2 to 500 Busiest season – Summer (book at least a year in advance) Ceremony Options – Outdoor terraces, ballrooms, lounges or a canoe in the middle of the lake!
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Reception Options – The Victoria Terrace Ballroom is the most popular option. Restaurants and lounges are available for more intimate affairs. Tents can be brought in for outdoor receptions
Hidden Gem – The Brewster Barn, located just behind the Chateau, is a century old western barn used for receptions. Recent Trends – Fall and winter weddings, lavish parties, same-sex marriages (the Chateau is recognized as a gay-friendly destination by the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association). Food Trends – Caviar bar (selection of caviar on ice paired with vodkas), soup trio (an assortment of three mini soups served to each guest), two half entrées on one plate, customized sorbet served on ice plates (a palate cleanser between courses). Best Midnight Snack – Popcorn bar (from caramel to barbequed to buttered, your guests will enjoy munching on this during the dance).
the
perfect
wedding gift
My experience in organizing and booking Destination Weddings and Honeymoon escapes is second to none. Weddings Away There are hundreds of benefits to marrying in destination (think beautiful Bali or the stunning Caribbean) such as free upgraded flights, free guests at select resorts, travel voucher on your anniversary and more! Shot on the Belvedere Suite Balcony
After Party – Swing through the doors of the Glacier Saloon for Western tradition along with beverages and tasty, informal fare. Sit back on the summer patio, play pool or dance the night away. Between the ceremony and reception – Your guests can enjoy a cocktail in the Lakeview Lounge and marvel at the amazing view of the Victoria Glacier. What’s New – The Fairmont Day Spa opened Nov. 13, ’10 and offers a selection of relaxing services. Make sure to try their new line of Wellness Herbal Tea.
Honeymoon Registry Looking for the perfect honeymoon and already have all the linens and flatware you'll ever need? Then consider Travel Counsellors Honeymoon Registry. Allow your wedding guests to contribute to the most romantic getaway imaginable through a Registry!
Call today to learn more and to book your wedding and honeymoon!
Tanja Walsh 403-455-1161 (800) 513-1665
tanja.walsh@travelcounsellors.ca www.travelcounsellors.ca/tanja.walsh Facebook: www.facebook.com/tanjawalshtravelcounsellors Web: www.travelcounsellors.ca/tanja.walsh Blog: www.tanjawalsh.com Travel Counsellors (Canada) Ltd | Member of TICO #50016707 | Member of CLIA Voted ‘Best Travel Agent 2010’ in Guardian/Observer Travel Awards (UK) for fourth year
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Suitcase Checklist Please see below for a quick reference on what should go into your suitcase. You might not need all of it or you might have more, but this is an easy reference for packing. Documents & Necessities Hotel Reservations Tickets Insurance Information Passport/visa (& photocopies) Car Rental Information Emergency List Cash/Traveler’s Cheques/Credit & Debit cards Personal Items & Hygiene Toiletry Bag Body Lotion/Suntan Lotion Shampoo & conditioner Cosmetics Deodorant Contact lenses & solution Curling iron/hair straightener Feminine hygiene products Toothbrush, toothpaste & floss Soap/body wash Hair care products (hairspray, etc) Brush & comb Razors & shaving cream Clothing & Accessories Comfortable walking shoes Sandals Socks (one pair/day & one extra) Sneakers Hiking boots Dress shoes Swimsuit(s) Beach cover-up Underwear (one pair/day & one extra) Belt Dress(es) Jacket Suit(s) Pants/trousers Shirts/Blouse(s) Pajamas/sleepwear Shorts Skirts T/Sweatshirts Beach Hat Long underwear Scarf & mittens Slippers Knit Hat/Toque
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Gadgets Camera & charger Batteries Cell phone & charger Converters & adapters Extra memory cards/film Laptop & accessories IPOD/MP3 player Travel alarm clock Video camera & charger
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PLANNIN G E d m o n t o n
Edmonton Weddings Trinity Projekt Band The Trinity Projekt is all about the ladies, or should we say, brides? They love to have fun, play long sets and watch rowdy girls dance the night away. Musically, the Trinity Projekt is all about conformity with a twist. The twist involves your guests having fun and most importantly getting down on the dance floor like never before. For more information visit www.thetrinityprojekt.com
Hey Cupcake Sherwood Park’s very own cupcake boutique offers arguably the most unique flavours of cupcakes in the Edmonton area. Try the Guiness cupcake with Irish Cream icing (inspired by the Irish Carbomb shot). The Pink Champagne cupcake is perfect for a bridal shower. They also offer wedding cakes in every cupcake flavour. Fun, flavourful and made with fabulously fresh ingredients. For more information visit www.heycupcake.ca
Celtic Hall Edmonton’s one-of-a-kind Celtic gem. This banquet hall is adorned with a stone fireplace, a large stained glass window, open timber frame construction and extensive medieval décor. The hall comfortably accommodates any size of group up to 300 people. Chow down with your hands at their Medieval Feast that happens once a month. For more information visit www.celtichallatthedome.com
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iBride Invitations If you like unique and different, iBride Invitations can make this happen. Nena Duran, ibride’s invitation designer, offers everything from custom caricatures of you and your groom to online wedding invites that you can email, and post on your facebook page or wedding website. For more information visit www.ibrideinvitations.com
Scottish Imports For anything Scottish, check out Scottish Import’s new location on 124th St. They carry formal and informal kilt attire including plaids and sgian dubhs. For ladies they have sashes, tartan ribbon and even Scottish bridal gowns! For more information visit www.anythingscottish.com
pRIME FITNESS Get your perfect bride body with Prime Fitness. This personal training studio understands that everyone’s fitness goals are different. Whether you’re want to lose weight before your big day or run a marathon with your groom-to-be, Prime Fitness will get you on track. They have a “back to basics” approach that focuses on your body as the #1 tool to achieve success. For more information visit www.primefitstudio.com
Simply for Life The focus is on nutrition, education and lifestyle change. With customized meal planning, personalised grocery shopping lists and weekly visits, Simply for Life gives you the tools to accomplish your health goals. For more information visit www.simplyforlife.com
Jukebox Divas Personalise your first dance with a custom wedding song. If you’re having trouble finding a wedding song, the Jukebox Divas team of professional song writers will work with you to create a one-of-a-kind tune. You have a choice of being recorded and singing it yourself or having a vocalist sing it. Book Jukebox Divas to play at your wedding and they will perform it LIVE. A custom wedding song is also the perfect surprise gift for your bride/groom. For more information visit www.jukeboxdivas.com
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(it’s all in the) Details Event Management Alberta, Canada Calgary: 403.805.1337 Edmonton: 780.964.1336 Website: www.detailsevents.ca Contact us about million dollar style you can both love and afford. With us you’ll never be just another bride, you’re our bride. Customizable packages, from a leg up to full coordination, means it’s your vision, your day, your way! Alberta Ballet Edmonton, AB T6J 6R7 Phone: 780.702.4725 Email: info@albertaballet.com Website: www.albertaballet.com It is with great pride that we finally reveal our repertoire for this exciting upcoming 44th season. It is filled with wonder and brilliant dancing and includes the highly anticipated Canadian Premiere of American Dance Master Kirk Peterson’s The Sleeping Beauty. We are also extremely excited to announce the world premiere of a ballet created with the participation of yet another contemporary Canadian music legend, Sarah McLachlan. AMA Travel 10310 - 39A Avenue Edmonton, AB T6J 6R7 Phone: 1.877.989.8435 Website: www.ama.ab.ca/travel If you’ve always dreamed of a destination wedding, let AMA Travel make your dreams come true. Whether it’s a small, intimate gathering or a large celebration, our destination wedding experts will handle all of the details. Atmosphere Wedding Planning and Design Edmonton, AB T6V 0A8 Phone: 780.999.7205 Website: www.atmosphereweddings.com Atmosphere was designed around one main concept - people. Our true passion lies in providing exceptional service and care, and filling your planning stage with joy and excitement! We want to make happy memories of entire process. That is what we do. We have an exceptional team of knowledgeable industry leaders who are smart, creative, and all-around good people who truly want the very best for everyone that we work with.
EDMONTON
Bridal Conference Email: info@bridalconference.com Website: www.bridalconference.com Bridal Conference: Fall’s Boutique Bridal Show, will equip engaged couples to make the best choices in terms of their preferred decor, flowers, photography, travel and more. Brides - Don’t forget to pick up a free Wedding Planner and Survival Guide at the door (a $14.95 value).
Canadian Cancer Society Website: www.cancer.ca Instead of gifts or favours for your guests, recognize a loved one with a Wedding Tribute from the Canadian Cancer Society. We are happy to provide you with gift cards, place cards and/or a reception certificate for your guests. Visit our website for more information on how you can help today.
Bridal Debut #2B – 153 Pembina Road Sherwood Park, AB T8H 0B9 Phone: 780.467.4082 5916 – 104 Street Edmonton, AB T6H 2K3 Phone: 780.431.0539 Website: www.bridaldebut.com Visit one of our fabulous salons (in either Sherwood Park or our new Edmonton location) and experience the thrill of finding your perfect wedding dress. Our wonderful consultants will give you excellent service in a friendly and comfortable setting. With designers like Maggie Sottero, Sophia Tolli, Alfred Sung and more, you’re sure to find the wedding dress you have been dreaming of.
Celtic Hall 10104 – 32 Avenue Edmonton, AB T6N 1G7 Phone: 780.465.5599 Website: www.celtichallathome.com Create your day your way at the Celtic Hall. A beautiful and unique setting complete with stone fireplace and stained glass windows creates a gorgeous backdrop for your special day. Ceremonies and receptions for up to 300 people ensure you have all the room you need.
Bridal Fantasy Group Magazine & Tradeshow Edmonton, AB T6E 4A4 Phone: 1.800.565.6664 Website: www.bridalfantasy.com Bridal Fantasy is about the business of weddings and creating platforms for wedding specialists to showcase their products and services while offering prospective brides, grooms and their friends a multitude of business choices, ideas and alternatives for planning their wedding. Bridal Fantasy Jewelry Email: info@shopbridalfantasy.com Website: www.shopbridalfantasy.com Bridal Fantasy Jewelry is the newest addition to the Bridal Fantasy family. With tons of unique pieces and new lines being added, along with prices to fit any bride’s budget, Bridal Fantasy Jewelry is your onestop online shop for all your bridal and wedding party accessory needs.
Century Casino 13103 Fort Road Edmonton, AB 780-643-4000 www.centurycasinos.com Don’t leave anything up to chance! The Century Casino offers a multitude of space for your engagement, bachelor/ bachelorette party, and reception parties. Our passionate and knowledgeable staff provide an exciting and memorable experience for your special time. Century Hospitality Group Website: www.centuryhospitality.com Fresh, Fun, Chic & Unique... we love what we do and it shows. Century Hospitality Group is a rapidly growing, privately held parent company of 6 progressive, on-trend restaurant concepts. Our award-winning restaurants are staffed with enthusiastic, energetic, hardworking professionals with the sole goal of offering warm, genuine hospitality. Even though we now employ more than 300 people, and we’re continuing to develop new, unique, innovative concepts, we never forget our small business roots. Everything we do is for the sheer enjoyment of our guests. We invite you to be our guest, come on in.
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E D M O N T O N W E D D I N G S P E C I A L I S T S
C’est Sera 8239 – 104 Street Phone: 780.434.7435 10125 – 104 Street Phone: 780.425.7372 5820 – 111 Street Phone: 780.421.9834 C’est Sera is a true boutique, where you will always find unique pieces coupled with great customer service. Out educated staff are here to help you & your bridal party find everything you need for your special occasion. The Cleanery 11210 – 109 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5H 1E1 Phone: 780.426.0510 Website: www.cleanery.com The Cleanery first opened its doors in 1972. For years, we have been Edmonton’s leader in professional cleaning services, from dry cleaning and full laundry for everyday wear, to alterations, restoration and finishing for specialty items, including wedding gowns, suede, leather and furs. The Cleanery’s commitment to
exceptional customer service, convenience and attention to detail is unparalleled. We take great pride in the quality of our services, and we look forward to building long lasting relationships with each of our loyal customers. Derk’s Formals and Menswear 8111-102 Street – Main Store Phone: 780.433.6614 10410-118 Avenue Phone: 780.477.1655 10120-151 Street Phone: 780.483.1807 Email: info@derks.ca Website: www.derks.ca Derk’s Formals & Menswear has been outfitting men since 1939. Whether it’s your wedding day, graduation, or just another Saturday night, Derks has been trained to help you look your very best. Check us out at any one of our four locations with our 5th location opening in Calgary in January 2011! Derks has been a Consumer Choice Award winner since 2002!
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Dion Website: www.dionneckwear.com Eternity Limousines Edmonton, AB T6B 2N1 Phone: 780.474.0600 Website: www.eternitylimos.com Our goal is to be Edmonton’s first choice in luxury transportation. Enjoy modern comforts and the prestige feeling while cruising around Edmonton. Sit back, relax and let us take you there in style. Farlie Travel St. Alberta, AB T8N 6M9 Phone: 780.459.6661 Website: www.farlietravel.com The specialists at Farlie Travel excel in the art of romantic travel planning. Whether you want a destination wedding or are looking for the perfect place for your honeymoon, the staff at Farlie Travel are there to make sure all your plans are executed perfectly.
Atmosphere was designed around one main concept - people. Our true passion lies in providing exceptional service and care to our clients, and filling your planning stage with joy and excitement! We want to make happy memories around the entire process, and make an event out of planning your wedding. That is what we do. We take every detail and make it memorable. We have an exceptional team of knowledgeable industry leaders who are smart, creative, and all-around good people who truly want the very best for everyone that we work with. 14706 – 141 Street Edmonton, AB T6V 0A8
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GemOro Goldsmith 1093 West Edmonton Mall 8882 – 170 Street Edmonton, AB T5T 3J7 Phone: 780.444.7210 Located in West Edmonton Mall, GemOro Goldsmith is the perfect place to look for your wedding jewellery. From rings to necklaces, the experienced and friendly staff will be able to help you find the perfect wedding accessories. You’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for. Getting Married in Europe Vancouver, BC Phone: 778-231-1506 Website: www.gettingmarriedineurope.com We are specialized in organizing destination weddings in great locations in Italy, Greece, Austria, France and Spain. The civil, religious and symbolic ceremonies can take place in beautiful villas, castles, chapels, churches, gardens, beaches, lakes, vineyards and palaces. Grand Designs Edmonton, AB Phone: 780.988.5327 Website: www.granddesignevent.com At Grand Design we blend innovative designs and aesthetics to make your event unique. Our head design team travels the world to search and bring the latest trends to our clients, we also have 20 years of experience and expertise to create ordinary to extraordinary environments. We carry the latest and newest lines from crystal backdrops, columns, table centre pieces, shimmerliers ceiling drops, chair covers , cuffing, brooches ,and specialty linens just to ambiance your room, to make your celebration a grand entrance. Servicing Edmonton, Calgary and surrounding areas. Please contact us for free consultation in our beautiful decorated showrooms. HBC National Gift Registry Phone: 1.877.408.1510 Website: ww.hbc.com Build your dream home with HBC’s National Gift Registry. Our registry consultants help you with all aspects of you registry from: planning a wish list just for you, and sending an online announcement. Learn about our completion program and stay organized with your checklist. Come see a representative today!
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nspired and created in Europe, cake couture uses its French and Spanish artistic flair to bring you
unique and personalized cakes and cupcakes for any special occasion. Contact us Tel. 780.443.4083 (c) 780.709.1682 15008 - 87 Ave. Edm. AB
w w w . c a k e c o u t u r e - e d i b l e a r t . c a
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Let our experts take care of every detail for you. Housing wedding rentals, retail favours, gifts, and wedding collections, as well as event planning, coordinating, and decor services in the same location; we will create a wedding that is uniquely you.
specialeventrentals.com
In Style And On Budget
Locations Edmonton & Calgary Shop Online!
EDMONTON WEDDING SPECIALISTS CONTINUED
iBride Invitations Phone: 780.271.2028 Email: contactus@ibrideinvitations.com Website: www.ibrideinvitations.com With iBride, you have the power to produce the style, design and look of the wedding invitations that match your personality. We are proud to offer you many creative wedding invitations styles to choose from. ID BOHEMIA Edmonton, Alberta Phone: 780.221.1812 Email: makeithappen@idbohemia.com Website: www.idbohemia.com Event couture, design and planning - Your love for each other is rich and beautiful. Your wedding should feel the same way. Dream of an event as joyful, meaningful and inspiring as a life spent together—and we’d love to create every vibrant detail. Instant Memories Edmonton, AB T6H 2J7 Phone: 780.910.4800 Toll Free: 1.888.399.3040 Website: www.instantmemories.com Instant Memories offers free wedding negatives and free engagement photos. With over 10 professional photographers on staff, you can rest assured you will have a professional to capture all the moments on your special day. With various styles ranging from fun and candid to a more photojournalistic or traditional approach you will get the exact feel you want for your wedding day photos. Little Warriors Edmonton, AB T5N 1S5 Phone: 780.447.1343 Toll-Free: 1.888.440.1343 Email: laurie@littlewarriors.ca Website: www.littlewarriors.ca Little Warriors is a national charitable organization, based in Canada, focusing on the education and prevention of child sexual abuse. Little Warriors teaches adults how to help prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. In addition to prevention education, Little Warriors also provides information about the prevalence and frequency of child sexual abuse and information about healing and support resources. J. Lindeberg Website: http://jlindeberg.com
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Your FUN wedding photographers! www.studiofourtwelve.ca - 780.995.4793
H
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back in time for the
wedding of your dreams! Hotel Selkirk at Fort Edmonton Park is an intimate, unique hotel, perfect for wedding celebrations with a historical air. Decorated in 1920s style, the hotel provides the ideal atmosphere for a magical and memorable experience in Edmonton’s beautiful river valley and Fort Edmonton Park. Call 780.496.7227 to book your wedding today. w w w. h o t e l s e l k i r k . c o m
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Kuhlmann’s Floral Boutique 1320 – 167 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5Y 6L6 780.472.9470 www.kuhlmanns.com Kuhlmann’s Floral Boutique has been providing custom-designed floral wedding work for over 40 years. From the bride’s and attendants’ bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres, and decorations, we have you covered. Consultation is by appointment with our award winning floral designers and event planners who work within your budget to make your day fabulous. Delivery is also available on your big day. la piazza dasee 8004 Gateway Boulevard Edmonton, AB T6E 6A2 Phone: 780.437.1380 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. Lustre Studio 2926, West Edmonton Mall 8882-170 Street Phone: 780.484.1990 Website: www.lustrestudio.com Lustre Studio is an all inclusive bridal studio where you can shop for your designer gown, plan & organize your wedding with our on location wedding consultants and put together the most pristine and unique wedding package for your special day. McMaster Photographers Edmonton, AB T5P 4S1 Phone: 780.489.9898 Website: www.mcmasterphotographers.com We are a creative and state-of-the-art studio with creative wedding photography and wedding videography. Excellence and quality is paramount at our studio. With experienced and passionate professionals you don’t need to look any further to ensure your special memories will be beautifully captured.
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Modern Urban Designers Hair & Body Studio Edmonton, AB T5N 3N3 Phone: 780.482.2004 Email: info@mudstudio.com Website: www.mudstudio.com MUD is a distinguished, boutique-style salon and spa located on eclectic 124 Street. Our experienced team of artists, hair designers, estheticians and War Paint specialists are dedicated to you and your wellness. MUD lives and works with the conviction to enhance beauty while complementing individuality and natural style. Our crew will ensure that each MUD experience is as unique as you are. Newwest Travel Edmonton, AB T5K 2J2 Phone: 780.432.7446 Email: info-newwest@shawbiz.ca Website: www.newwesttravel.com Getting married in an exotic destination is the perfect way get married. Share your vows surrounded by your family and friends a tropical setting. Newwest Travel’s Wedding Specialists are here to assist you in planning your perfect wedding and honeymoon.
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Night Owl - Designer Lingerie 10180-101 st. Manulife Place Edmonton, Alta. 780-423-7757 ntowl@telus.net www.nightowlimports.com This luxurious boutique, located downtown, features one of the best selections of designer lingerie. Specializing in bra fittings, in a size range of 30B to 42E. Exclusive lines from Lise Charmel , Antinea, Antigel, Prima Donna, Marie Jo, Aubade, Pleasure State, Simone Perele, Betsey Johnson, in fashion, bridal, and everyday fabulous support. For all your intimate apparel needs! Beautiful silk, chiffon, and lace gowns, chemises, bustiers and pajamas can be found here in our boutique.
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Prestige Limousine Edmonton, AB T6N 1C2 Phone: 780.465.8514 Website: www.edmontonprestigelimousine.com Prestige Limousine is proud to be Edmonton and area’s largest limousine fleet. Whatever your needs, Prestige Limousine will provide you and your guests to their destination with quality service. Custom limo packages are available, just talk to one of the customer service team to book the package that is right for you. QSD Event Services Edmonton, AB T5S 2E1 Phone: 780.484.3052 Toll-Free: 1.800.661.5649 Website: www.qsdeventservices.ca QSD Event Services is a leading provider of specialty drapery rentals and design, producing mesmerizing events with stylish backdrops, creative ceiling treatments and complete venue transformations. We offer excellent rates for shipping rentals to anywhere in North-America. Revolution DJ & Limousines Inc. Edmonton: 780.416.9017 Calgary: 403.873.1218 Vancouver: 604.688.4445 Website: www.revolutiondj.com Revolution Entertainment is Alberta and BC’s elite mobile DJ Company. Over 35 professionally trained DJs, interactive website & musical database, and leading edge audio and lighting equipment. We also have Canada’s most high-end fleet of custom limousines. Contact us today to book your Wedding, Corporate function, or special event!
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Riverboat Inc. Edmonton, AB T6C 4P6 Phone: 780.424.2628 Website: www.edmontonqueen.com The Edmonton Queen Riverboat offers a unique experience, a relaxing atmosphere, and one of the most picturesque views of our beautiful river valley and city. The perfect setting for all your events, whether that be a romantic dinner for two, a family-friendly cruise or a class field trip. Sailing four days a week we have a cruise for everyone. Planning a wedding or business function? Host your event on the Edmonton Queen Riverboat and give your guests something to talk about. Whatever your needs, the Edmonton Queen offers a variety of booking options.
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Sand Website: www.sand.dk Passion, innovation and timeless designs. At SAND we praise these virtues – constantly striving for perfection in everything we do. From fabrics, details and delicate cuts. Available at Derks. Simply for Life Sherwood Park, AB T8A 3X5 Phone: 780.449.1434 Email: info.sherwoodpark@simplyforlife.com Website: www.simplyforlife.com Once our clients get a taste of great health, the sky is the limit to what they can do with their lives. Special Event Rentals 6010 – 99 Street Edmonton, AB T6E 3P2 Phone: 780.435.2211 Email: rentals@specialeventrentals.com Website: www.specialeventrentals.com Specializing in event rentals, tent rentals and renting tents, wedding rentals, and more, Special Event Rentals is Edmonton’s premiere event rental and tent rental company. We carry the largest selection of rental tents in Edmonton and provide event rentals and tents rental throughout Alberta. Whether you need bars and bar equipment, bowls, chafing dishes and catering equipment, trays, platters, linens, lighting, table rentals, chair rentals, event rentals, party rentals, wedding chair covers, dance floors, or barbeque rentals, we carry everything you need to complete the perfect event. Strellson Website: www.strellson.com Strellson style emphasizes the personality of the wearer – in all areas of life. Strellson gives him the certainty that he has bought a modern, high quality product. Nobody manufactures better looking suits at this price! Available at Derks Southside and West end locations. Swedish Jewellers 10169 – 101 Street Edmonton, AB T5G 3A6 Phone: 780.424.4777 Email: al@swedishjewellers.com Website: www.swedishjewellers.com Swedish Jewellers is one of Canada’s most celebrated establishments of fine jewellery and timepieces. Our commitment, to providing the finest in quality, style and selection, follows our passion for service and customer satisfaction.
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Tifany’s Bridal 15123 Stony Plain Road Edmonton, AB T5P 3Y3 Phone: 780.486.2577 Email: tifanysbridal@shaw.ca Website: www.tifanysbridal.com Our company has been responsible for providing outstanding service, products. Our specialty is in providing Bridal Attire for the whole bridal party. Our regular customers particularly value our Honesty and Easy going service. Uniglobe Geo Travel Edmonton: 780.424.8310 Calgary: 403.531.2400 Website: www.geo.ca Website: www.romantictravel.ca It’s not what we promise that sets us apart, it’s what we deliver. The last thing you want to do is take chances with your destination wedding. Call the specialists at Uniglobe Geo Travel where you know the details are going to be perfect. Volvo of Edmonton Edmonton, AB T6X 1A1 Phone: 780.486.5100 Website: www.volvoedmonton.com Take a European Honeymoon in your brand new Volvo! Tickets to Sweden, one-night luxury hotel and 15 days insurance to explore Europe are some of the benefits you’ll receive with the new European Delivery program. Talk to your Volvo dealership to get your new Volvo today! Wedding World 5361 Gateway Boulevard Edmonton, AB T6H 4P4 Phone 780-433-1622 Website: www.weddingworldonline.com For more than 30 years, Wedding World has been helping brides create beautiful weddings. Whatever your colour or theme, we can accommodate you. Wedding World brings you a fabulous selection of designer gowns at affordable prices. We carry bridesmaid dresses, mother’s dresses, flower girl dresses, shoes, headpieces and veils. Check us out today. Welcome Wagon Website: www.welcomewagon.ca If you’re planning a wedding, this showcase is for you. Special displays, gifts and door prizes are available. You could even win a dream honeymoon trip!
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PLANNIN G C a l g a r y
Calgary Weddings
Beautiful Bride Gorgeous and exclusive designer gowns, chic modest dresses, princess attire for your flower girl and the perfect finishing touches await you at Beautiful Bride. Our knowledgeable consultants take pride in our attention to detail and to your personal needs as a bride. Schedule your one-on-one appointment today. For more information visit www.beautifulbride.ca
OneWest Events Calgary’s premier boutique for event rentals and design. Their experienced and inspired staff pursue perfection and have an eye for the exquisite. From digital dance floors to stunning décor, OneWest ensures your event will dazzle your memories of you and those of your guests for years to come. For more information visit www.onewestevents.com
Flower Fusion Exciting news – Flower Fusion is moving into a NEW design studio that will focus on wedding design. They will be closing their storefront in Bridgeland and moving just a few blocks away into a studio space. Find them on the web or book a private consultation at their studio. For more information visit www.flowerfusion.biz
Kyla Loewen Make-Up Artist What’s your flavour? When it comes to your bridal make-up, Kyla Lowen will help you figure that out. Whether you like a look that gives you natural glow and highlights your best features, or something more dramatic, Kyla’s your lady! The best part? She comes to you, so you can get ready in the comfort of your own home or hotel room. For more information visit www.kylaloewen.com
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Lavender Cove Their main passion is tea. If it’s yours too, make sure to check out what they offer for weddings. From customized tea blends for favours to a gift basket filled with tea treats for your bridesmaids. “A lasting friendship begins with tea.” – Lavendar Cove. For more information visit www.teas-online.com
Pampered Girlz Spa Parties A Mobile Spa that caters to groups of 3-15 and provides full spa services in the comfort of your home. Their team includes certified estheticians, massage therapists and hair stylists. Book for the day before your wedding, your bridal shower or bachelorette party. Bring the Spa to You! For more information visit www.pamperedgirlz.net
Dance Shout productions More than just your typical mobile DJ company with great music and a killer light show; they’re also known as fantastic entertainers with a great attitude. They offer DMX lighting (computer controlled) that allows you to change the atmosphere in your room throughout the night and to match your wedding colors. They work hard to ensure that each and every event they attend is a great success! For more information visit www.danceshout.com
Bubbles & Beaus Event Planning Their name says it all! Bubbles represents fun, upbeat, trendy and Beaus represents old-fashioned virtues of honesty, integrity and impeccable service. Book your consultation with Heather at her office in the heart of downtown Calgary. For more information visit www.bubblesandbeaus.urbs.com
Engaging Weddings & Avalon Harp This husband and wife team will ensure your ceremony flows beautifully and that your vows will be remembered by all for years to come. Bruce is an authorized Alberta Marriage Commissioner whose goal it to ensure that your ceremony is exactly what you want. The love of his life, Jan, harpist with Avalon Harp, will create a magical mood to this intimate exchange. For more information visit www.engagingweddings. com or www.avalonharp.com
Hehiyla Hehiyla Bridal, located in the heart of downtown Calgary is your one stop source for gowns, dresses (bridesmaids, grads, and special occasions), jewellery, and more. Their lines include Cosmobella, Demetrios, De Vinci, Forever Yours, Gemini, Jasmine and more. Feel free to stop in and try on the newest arrivals. For more information visit www.hehiyla.com
Artwing Art & Framing Art is a special and personal way to capture an event, special day/moment or person for eternity. Bring Marli Beetge, artist and owner, a photo of your special moment and she will capture your memory in a custom painting. For more information visit www.artwing.ca Painting of the location in Quebec City where a couple was engaged on February 14, 2010.
Leonida’s Chocolates Indulge in world famous Leonida’s Chocolates at Manon’s, a character chocolate cboutique in Britania Plaza. Ghislaine Cleiren, owner, flies these delicious Belgium chocolates in each week. Spoil your wedding guests with her selection of chocolates and truffles. Use them as a favour or replace your cake with a chocolate buffet! For more information visit www.leonidaschocolates.ca
Chair Flair Your wedding is magical and Chair Flair is honoured to help bring the magic alive with decor. Their goal is to “WOW” you and your guests. They pride themselves on their reputation and on providing you with FANTASY the highest level of service from start to finish.BRIDAL For more www.bridalfantasy.com information visit www.chairflair.ca
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CALGARY WEDDING SPECIALISTS (it’s all in the) Details Event Management Alberta, Canada Calgary: 403.805.1337 Edmonton: 780.964.1336 Website: www.detailsevents.ca Contact us about million dollar style you can both love and afford. With us you’ll never be just another bride, you’re our bride. Customizable packages, from a leg up to full coordination - it’s your vision, your day, your way!
Andras Schram Photography Calgary, Alberta Phone: 403.829.4092 Website: www.andrasschram.com Award Winning Wedding & Portrait Photography – Andras goes with the action and mood of the environment rather than take over and lead the setup. He uses his camera as a poet uses his pen, through his eyes and the lens of the camera; he captures the moments and blends it into a story.
Alberta Ballet Phone: 403.245.4222 Email: info@albertaballet.com Website: www.albertaballet.com It is with great pride that we finally reveal our repertoire for the upcoming 44th season. It includes the highly anticipated Canadian Premiere of American Dance Master Kirk Peterson’s The Sleeping Beauty. We are also excited to announce the world premiere of a ballet created with Canadian music legend, Sarah McLachlan.
Atelier Luu Calgary, AB Phone: 403-909-3679 Website: www.atelierluu.com Atelier Luu Photography specializes in contemporary, fine art imagery, which captures the uniqueness of each couple. This husband and wife photography team is based in Calgary but are available for weddings worldwide.
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CALGARY Beautiful Bride Calgary, AB Phone: 403.663.2173 Website: www.beautifulbride.ca Gorgeous and exclusive designer gowns, chic modest dresses, mini princess attire and the perfect finishing touches await you at Beautiful Bride. With our knowledgeable consultants and one on one appointments, we take pride in our attention to detail. Bells & Bows Bridal Centre Lethbridge, AB Phone: 403.238.2355 Website: www.bellsandbowsbridalcentre.com Bells & Bows Bridal Centre carries gowns that are timeless, exquisite, reflecting modern elegance with a Haute Couture flair. We are a full-service boutique that places emphasis on customer service. We create an atmosphere and an ambiance for you that is exciting, fun, and worry-free. We hope you will allow us the pleasure of turning your dreams into a reality.
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E D M O N T O N W E D D I N G S P E C I A L I S T S
Boudoir Portraits by TAIT Photography Calgary, AB T2G 0V2 Phone: 1-(800) 213-0874 Website: http://www.taitboudoir.com Capture one of the most beautiful times in your life and give him a gift that will leave him speechless. All boudoir sessions are photographed in private by a female photographer. The boudoir sitting fee is $150. Call us at (800) 213-0874 or visit our website to book your session.
Bridal Fantasy Group Magazine & Tradeshow Edmonton, AB T6E 4A4 Phone: 1.800.565.6664 Website: www.bridalfantasy.com Bridal Fantasy is about the business of weddings and creating platforms for wedding specialists to showcase their products and services while offering prospective brides, grooms and their friends a multitude of business choices, ideas and alternatives for planning their wedding.
Bridal Conference Email: info@bridalconference.com Website: www.bridalconference.com Bridal Conference: Fall’s Boutique Bridal Show, will equip engaged couples to make the best choices in terms of their preferred decor, flowers, photography, travel and more. Brides - Don’t forget to pick up a free Wedding Planner and Survival Guide at the door (a $14.95 value).
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry Email: info@shopbridalfantasy.com Website: www.shopbridalfantasy.com Bridal Fantasy Jewelry is the newest addition to the Bridal Fantasy family. With tons of unique pieces and new lines being added, along with prices to fit any bride’s budget, Bridal Fantasy Jewelry is your one-stop online shop for all your bridal and wedding party accessory needs.
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CONTINUED
Canadian Cancer Society / DSA Baron Calgary, AB T2E 2P5 Phone: 403.205.3966 Toll-Free: 1 (800) 661-2262 Email: info@cancer.ab.ca Website: www.cancer.ca/Alberta-NWT/ We are a community-based organization, with volunteers and staff working to make cancer history in communities across Canada. Our efforts in the Alberta/ NWT Division help provide programs and services to patients and their families, and many other activities. Chantal Milaine Photography Phone: 403.992.6000 Email: info@chantalmilaine.com Website: www.chantalmilaine.com Life is nothing without emotions. Photos allow us to remember the emotions that we have shared with those we love. “Without passion you do not have energy; without energy you have nothing”
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Derks Formals and Menswear 107, 7004 Macleod Trail SE Phone: 403.301.3366 107, 908 – 17th Avenue SW Phone: 403.288.5288 Calgary, AB Website: www.derks.ca Derk’s Formals & Menswear has been outfitting men since 1939. 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 at any one of our four locations with our fifth location opening in Calgary in January 2011! Derks has been a Consumer Choice Award winner since 2002! Dion Website: www.dionneckwear.com Executive 4Star Limousine Lethbridge, AB T1H 0C9 Phone: 1.877.329.3650 Website: www.4starlimo.com Executive 4Star Limousine serves all of Southern Alberta with their fabulous fleet of limos, including Canada’s largest SUV limo, the F650 Mammoth. The staff at Executive 4Star customize your wedding according to your specific needs for the wedding day. They will get you there in style and comfort! Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel Banff, AB Phone: 403.762.2211 Toll-Free: 1.866.540.4406 Website: www.fairmont.com/banffsprings Happily ever after begins at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Also called Canada’s “Castle in the Rockies”, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel creates the perfect atmosphere for a fairytale wedding, making every bride feel like a princess. Contact them today to put a team of professional wedding planners to work. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Lake Louise, AB Phone: 403.522.3511 Toll-Free: 1.866.540.4413 Website: www.fairmont.com/lakelouise No matter what time of year it is, there are a variety of activities, sights and treasures to explore, for you and your wedding guests. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise was voted one of the “World’s Top Ten Honeymoon Hot Spots” by Discovery Travel. Come and find out why.
YOURSTYLE YOURFLOWERS
DESIGN STUDIO
www.flowerfusion.biz
Serving Calgary Area plus Banff, Canmore and Lake Louise
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Fox Creative Photography Serving Edmonton, Calgary and area Phone: 403-246-0216 Website: www.foxcreativedesign.com Signature Images with a “Paparazzi Influence.” From the grand portraits to the funky candid images, we will capture the mood and moments that weave together your cherished love story. We are passionate about delivering to you exceptional images and service. Getting Married in Europe Vancouver, BC Phone: 778-231-1506 Website: www.gettingmarriedineurope.com We are specialized in organizing destination weddings in great locations in Italy, Greece, Austria, France and Spain. The civil, religious and symbolic ceremonies can take place in beautiful villas, castles, chapels, churches, gardens, beaches, lakes, vineyards and palaces.
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WEDDIN G PHOTOJOURNALIS T + PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER
www.taitphoto.com • (800) 213-0874
“Thank you so much for ever yt hing you did. The photos are absolutel y beautiful and s tunning, you captured ever y moment. Thank you ag ain from t he bottom hea ts.” of our hear ~ Tasha & Matt
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Little Warriors Toll-Free: 1.888.440.1343 Email: info@littlewarriors.ca Website: www.littlewarriors.ca Little Warriors is a national charitable organization, based in Canada, focusing on the education and prevention of child sexual abuse. Little Warriors teaches adults how to help prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. In addition to prevention education, Little Warriors also provides information about the prevalence and frequency of child sexual abuse and information about healing and support resources. HBC National Gift Registry Phone: 1.877.408.1510 Website: ww.hbc.com Build your dream home with HBC’s National Gift Registry. Registry consultants help you to: plan a wish list just for you, send an online announcement, learn about our completion program, and stay organized with your checklist.
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J. Lindeberg Website: http://jlindeberg.com
Missing Piece Coaching pre marital & relationship coaching Your wedding lasts a day but your marriage is forever. We offer customized pre marital coaching sessions that help prepare you for the most important time in your life Phone us at 403.801.0189 or visit us at our website www.missingpiececoaching.com
love trust partnership communication patience fun forever
OneWest Events Inc Calgary, AB T2E 2L7 Phone: 403-277-9378 Website: www.onewestevents.com OneWest Events is Calgary’s Premier Boutique for event design and rentals. Specializing in custom events, themed props, state of the art lighting, linens and furniture, our talented designers have an eye for the exquisite and attention to every detail. Call us today to find out how we can make your wedding decor dreams come true. Revolution DJ & Limousines Inc. Edmonton: 780.416.9017 Calgary: 403.873.1218 Vancouver: 604.688.4445 Website: www.revolutiondj.com Revolution Entertainment is Alberta and BC’s elite mobile DJ Company. Over 35 professionally trained DJs, interactive website & musical database, and leading edge audio and lighting equipment. We also have Canada’s most high-end fleet of custom limousines. Contact us today to book your Wedding, Corporate function, or special event! Sand Website: www.sand.dk Passion, innovation and timeless designs. At SAND we praise these virtues – constantly striving for perfection in everything we do. From fabrics, details and delicate cuts. Available at Derks.
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Silverline Photography Phone: 403.653.7526 Phone: 403.653.1003 Email: heather@silverlinephoto.com Website: www.silverlinephoto.com We feel that the most important thing we have to offer is exceptional customer service. We will do everything possible to make your experience with us a joyous one. We’ll provide you with the best possible product. Call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation, and let us take your senior portrait in style, a photograph of the entire family, or have that dream wedding immortalized forever in one of our beautiful fully customized wedding albums. Because no two faces are alike, why shouldn’t your image stand out from everyone else?
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Something Blue Photography Phone: 403.819.3584 Email: info@somethingbluephotography.ca Website: somethingbluephotography.ca We specialize in fun, creative weddings and engagements where we are the backdrop and you are the stars. We aim to tell your wedding story through pictures. Our candid style encourages you to have fun, be creative and most of all, be yourselves! Genelee and Adrian work as a team to capture your special day. We love spontaneity and crave the unexpected. Strellson www.strellson.com Strellson style emphasizes the personality of the wearer – in all areas of life. Strellson gives him the certainty that he has bought a modern, high quality product. Nobody manufactures better looking suits at this price! Available at Derks Southside and West end locations. Travel Counsellors Phone: 403.455.1161 Email: tanja.walsh@travelcounsellors.ca Website: http://www.travelcounsellors.ca/tanja.walsh Looking for that special place to celebrate your new lives together or to renew your vows? Ever thought of a honeymoon in South Africa or getting married in Tuscany? Tanja can direct you to the right place! Strellson Website: www.strellson.com Strellson style emphasizes the personality of the wearer – in all areas of life. Strellson gives him the certainty that he has bought a modern, high quality product. Nobody manufactures better looking suits at this price! Available at Derks Southside and West end locations. Uniglobe Geo Travel Edmonton: 780.424.8310 Calgary: 403.531.2400 Website: www.romantictravel.ca It’s not what we promise that sets us apart, it’s what we deliver. The last thing you want to do is take chances with your destination wedding. Call the specialists at Uniglobe Geo Travel where you know the details will be perfect. Welcome Wagon Website: www.welcomewagon.ca If you’re planning a wedding, this showcase is for you. Special displays, gifts and door prizes are available. You could even win a dream honeymoon trip!
JENNY YOO · LYNN LUGO · SIMPLE SILHOUETTES · THREAD · IVY & ASTER · KARA JANX · NARCISSIST
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Lethbridge
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Bells & Bows Bridal Centre
Executive 4Star Limousine
Every wedding is a unique and memorable celebration of joy, love and commitment. Bells & Bows Bridal gowns are timeless and exquisite, reflecting modern elegance, with a Haute Couture flair. We are a full-service boutique that pays close attention to detail. We create an experience for the bride, bridal party and the mother of the bride that is exciting and worryfree. We hope you will allow us the pleasure of turning your dreams into a reality.
We have ALL your transportation needs covered...BIG or small we have it all! From Canada’s Largest Limo the F-650 Mammoth, our Luxury Limo Bus, many SUV style limos, plus a GREAT car limo, we can accommodate any size wedding party. View our entire fleet at www.4starlimo.com or call 403-329-5466 to book a viewing and check availability.
403.238.2355 www.bellsandbowsbridalcentre.com
403-329-LIMO (5466) www.4starlimo.com
Sounds Unlimited Inc.
Realty Executives Jennifer Brodoway
Since our beginning in 1979, knowing how to deliver the “wow factor” continues to make Sounds Unlimited Inc. your first choice for professional entertainment. Planning your event will be effortless while working with our full time office staff, event hosts, DJs and resources. Our team of talented and reliable event hosts take pride in delivering quality wedding entertainment for all ages – the way you imagine it.
As couples plan their lives together, their home is one of the many things they discuss. With all the things you need to do, the buying process can seem overwhelming. For a free, no obligation, no pressure consultation on all your options, call Jen Brodoway with Realty Executives. Or visit viewlethbridge. com to sign up for mls listings matching your criteria delivered to you by email.
1.866.320.5999 www.soundsunlimitedinc.com
403.795.8783 www.viewlethbridge.com/newlyweds.html
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Red Deer
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Image of Beauty
Green County Rentals
Image of beauty (IOB) is a bridal service company with a wealth of experience. Let our team of highly qualified artists make your special day that much more special! Services provided: Bridal wear.- We can make in 6 weeks or its FREE! * Photography-Makeup application– Hair Styling– We offer a wide tailored range of packages to suit your needs* *conditions apply
At Green County Rentals we pride ourselves on service, flexibility, and a vast inventory. From the intimate to the extravagant, we can help you transform your visions and ideas into reality.
1-888-842-6220 www.imageofbeauty.net
La Petite Jaune Fleur Every bride deserves the best in their wedding flowers. We create your personal wedding bouquets and floral arrangements with attention to detail and service. Contact us to book your wedding consultation today. 403.340.0773 www.jaunefleur.com
(403) 885-2835 www.greencountyrentals.com
Once Upon a Bride Once upon a time a bride was wondering how to plan her wedding. Then she found us...... We are a dedicated group of individual companies offering products and services in Red Deer and Area. Visit www.onceuponabride.com and Register with us. 403.328.3399 www.onceuponabride.com
Barb Fenske - Marriage Commissioner / Ceremony Officiant I have been a Marriage Commissioner since 1997 for Sylvan Lake and area, but do travel to wherever I am needed. Weddings are very special and very personal, I have the information couples need to ensure they get all of the required paperwork, and will work hard to help you personlize your ceremony. 403.887.5401 www.barbfenske.com
Alakan Custom Tailors Alakan Custom Tailors is a fully function Tailor shop and we take pride in what we do and how we do it. Can take that favourite pick of clothing that you just can’t get rid of and make in into something new. We do bridal alterations, Lululemon, Workout wear, General repairs and alterations, some leather work. We also do custom Bridal wear and Pet wear as well. We have great turn around time and we are open Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 4 pm. 403.986.4039 Alakantailors@shaw.ca
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Rocky Mountains
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
MountainWeddingVideos How will you remember your big day? Cinematic videos that capture your big day in style - delivered by professional digital filmmakers. Our commitment is to beautiful images and happy couples. Go, watch the samples!
Stewart Creek Golf Course Specializing in Fall & Winter Weddings Celebrate the most important day of your life surrounded by the breathtaking Rocky Mountains. With elegant facilities, professional catering and exceptional service, the team at Stewart Creek will deliver a day to remember.
Mt. Norquay
1.877.993.GOLF (4653) www.stewartcreekgolf.com
403-762-4421 ext 258 www.banffnorquay.com
1.403.760.7998
Richard Brown Photography
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
The Juniper Hotel & Bistro
“The Art of Wedding Photography” Creative, fun, professional, I capture a unique and personal record reflecting your wedding. Providing film and digital images with all the files and a huge panoramic print. Think love.
The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is an enchanting place where wedding dreams really do come true. Stunning vistas, pristine lakes and the magnificent Rocky Mountains make it the perfect destination for a magical wedding.
Happily ever after begins here. Also called Canada’s “Castile in the Rockies”, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel creates the perfect atmosphere for a fairytale wedding. Contact them to put their professional wedding planners to work on your special day.
The perfect spot for an intimate Banff wedding, the Juniper Hotel & Bistro is a boutique-style hotel and member of the Charming Inns of Alberta. Recently renovated, the venue offers a chic and sophisticated appeal. Its bistro boasts a fabulous selection of locally inspired cuisine.
403.678.3237 www.richardbrownphoto.ca
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Make the happiest day of your life even happier. Our 24,000 square foot lodge is the perfect venue for your upcoming nuptials. With a great, open room and stunning views of the mountain, it’s the perfect backdrop to the festivities on your special day.
780.852.3301 www.fairmont.com/jasper
Rocky Mountain Weddings Your personal wedding planners in the magnificent Rocky Mountains. Call today for a consultation for your wedding in Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Kananaskis. 403.609.3896 www.rockymountainweddings.ca
www.MountainweddingVideos.com
403.762.2211 www.fairmont.com/banffsprings
www.thejuniper.com
Creating Memories That Last
Custom packages for all occasions. Call us today.
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FEATURE窶ェashion
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Ode to
Grace By the Grace of Love, With the Grace of Hear t, With the Grace of Dance
(L) DRESS
6826T2 by Alfred Sung AVAILABLE
The Lily Pad JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own (R) DRESS
DRESS
77842 by ADK AVAILABLE
The Bridal Boutique JEWELRY
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry
At4441 by Venus AVAILABLE
Wedding World Bridal JEWELRY
Aine Carlisle for Bridal Fantasy (B) DRESS
VY290 by Vineyard Priscilla of Boston AVAILABLE
Novelle Bridal Shop JEWELRY
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry Hair & Make-up by The Modest Kingdom Set Design by ID Bohemia Male costume from Alberta Ballet Production “Love Lies Bleeding”
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DRESS
VX8524 by Venus AVAILABLE
Tifany’s Bridal JEWELRY
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Bridal Fantasy Jewelry COSTUME
from Alberta Ballet “Love Lies Bleeding”
DRESS
Martina Liana AVAILABLE
Beautiful Bride JEWELRY
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry
DRESS
Partis Gabriella AVAILABLE
Beautiful Bride FLOWERS
Marlow & Richards
DRESS
Moonlight AVAILABLE
Wedding World JEWELRY
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry
The Romantic Bride
For the fairytale princess, a gown with lashings of lace.
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DRESS
Jasmine AVAILABLE
The Lily Pad JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own
DRESS
Custom Design AVAILABLE
Rooy Couture JEWELRY
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Aine Carlisle for Briday Fantasy FLOWERS
Marlow & Richards
DRESS
ADK
AVAILABLE
Bells & Bows Bridal Centre JEWELRY
Aine Carlisle for Bridal Fantasy HEADPIECE
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry COSTUME
from Alberta Ballet “Love Lies Bleeding”
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DRESS
Lynn Lugo AVAILABLE
Frocks
JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own BIRDCAGE VEIL
Frocks
The Cocktail Hour Bride
Chic, sharp and sassy… this is the finale in glamour
DRESS
WEC166 by Allure Couture AVAILABLE
Bridal Debut HEADPIECE
MEG Jewelry JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own
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DRESS
ADK
AVAILABLE
Bells & Bows Bridal Centre JEWELRY
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry FLOWERS
la piazza dasee COSTUME
from Alberta Ballet “Love Lies Bleeding”
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DRESSES
Custom Design AVAILABLE
Rooy Couture JEWELRY
(L) Stylist’s Own (R) BF Jewelry FLOWERS
la piazza dasee
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The Modern Art Bride
For the bride that loves to experiment, yet remain innately cool
DRESS
B2080 by Crystal’s Bridal JEWELRY & HEADPIECE
MEG Jewelry FLOWERS
Holes Greenhouse
DRESS
J1367 by Maggie Sottero AVAILABLE
Bridal Debut JEWELRY
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry FLOWERS
Holes Greenhouse
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DRESS
Tony Bowles AVAILABLE
Crystal’s Bridal JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own
DRESS
Impression 3093 by Fiorella AVAILABLE
Tifany’s Bridal JEWELRY
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry
DRESS
ADK 77842 AVAILABLE
The Bridal Boutique JEWELRY
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry
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DRESS
ADK
AVAILABLE
Bells & Bows Bridal Centre JEWELRY & HEADPIECE
Stylist’s Own COSTUME
from Alberta Ballet “Love Lies Bleeding”
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TRENDS Fashion
Flaunt Your Feathers One of the hottest trends for 2011 is the feather. Brides have them on their dress, in their hair and in the décor. A personal favourite is the peacock feather – with its colourful palette you have a huge variety of choices. Another great option is white or black feathers – you can add that trendy touch without worrying about colour clashing. Don’t forget about your flowers! Feathers and flowers make a beautiful combo.
Headpiece by Frocks
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Headpiece by MEG Jewelry
Flowers by la piazza dasee
FASHION Bridesmaids
DRESS
Jenny Yoo AVAILABLE
Frocks
JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own DRESS
BY11021T Sophia Tolli AVAILABLE
Bridal Debut JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own DRESS
Jenny Yoo AVAILABLE
Frocks
JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own DRESS
D436 Alfred Sung AVAILABLE
Bridal Debut JEWELRY
Aine Carlisle for Bridal Fantasy
Hair & Make-up by The Modest Kingdom Set Design by ID Bohemia
“Les Belles du Jour”
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FASHION Bridesmaids (L) DRESS
Jenny Yoo (L) AVAILABLE
Frocks
(R) DRESS DRESS
Jasmine AVAILABLE
(L) DRESS
9080 by Alvina Valenta Maids
The Lily Pad Shot on location at Chateau Lake Louise
Belsoi
(R) AVAILABLE
The Lily Pad Shot on location at Chateau Lake Louise
(R) DRESS
601335 by Alfred Angelo AVAILABLE
Wedding World Bridal
(L) DRESS
2746 by Dessy (R) DRESS
2080 by Dessy AVAILABLE
Bridal Debut
DRESSES
Jenny Yoo JEWELRY
Frocks
Shot on location at Chateau Lake Louise
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For bridesmaids, simplicity rules the fashion roost. Cocktail-length dresses are still popular, especially when belted or cinched at the waist and flared at the skirt for a playful 1950’s feel. Belted styles are great for emphasizing an hourglass figure, and a thick sash is perfect for creating a waistline on women who desire a more defined shape. For that additional burst of color, a bold sash or ribbon in a complimentary shade tied at the waist is also fashionable this year. For the petite bridesmaid, stick with a thinner ribbon or belt, as larger styles break up the body and make a woman look even smaller. Shot by Grant Olson Photography Andras Schram Photography
DRESS
Tony Bowles Evenings AVAILABLE
Crystal’s Bridal
DRESS
Custom Design AVAILABLE
Rooy Couture GLOVES
Stylist’s Own
DRESS
562471 by Alfred Angelo AVAILABLE
Wedding World Bridal DRESS
DD296 by Martina Liana AVAILABLE
Beautiful Bride Jewelry
DRESS
2784 by Dessy AVAILABLE
Bridal Debut
When shopping for bridesmaids, make sure to keep their individual body types in mind. If you’ve chosen to have your bridesmaids wear longer dresses, slim, tailored designs of the sheath- and empire-style are favored as they flatter most body types. In addition to the traditional chiffons and taffetas, designers are also utilizing slinky satins in their gowns for that touch of Hollywood glamour.
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DRESS
Mismatched dresses are becoming more and more popular. This idea allows the bride to select her colors, but gives the bridesmaids the opportunity to select the style that looks best on them. Also, bridesmaids’ dresses are expensive, and though the economy is starting to improve, it is important to get the most value for their investment. Allowing bridesmaids to choose their own dresses allows them to find something that they will wear again, and ensures that everyone is looking their best for the wedding portraits.
198 Juniper AVAILABLE
Frocks
Single-strap dresses are sleek and modern, yet still undeniably feminine, and are as popular in bridesmaid’s dresses as they are in wedding gowns. Strapless dresses remain the most common style, but thickstrapped dresses are becoming popular again as well, creating a classic look that is a little more conservative. Portrait necklines are flattering on most women, and are characterized by a wide, soft scoop from one shoulder to the other, and offer a flattering glimpse of the chest without revealing cleavage. A strapless dress with a v-shaped halter strap is another great option, as it balances the body as well as shows off the shoulders. This look has all of the appeal of the strapless sweetheart neckline without the risk of the dress falling down, and is flattering on most women.
(L) DRESS
Meadow Sweet AVAILABLE
Frocks
(R) DRESS
S079 by JLM Couture
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AVAILABLE
Novelle Bridal
Solid colors, especially in pale and faded pastels, remain prevalent season, but many designers continue to mix-and-match with embroidery and separates. On the opposite side of the spectrum, bright, rich colors are fashionable also, especially in jewel tones. Pure pinks, vibrant reds, rich purples, and vivid blues are all wonderful choices. Deep gold has also been very popular, both as a solid color and as other accents.
DRESS
Bridal Boutique JEWELRY
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry
When choosing your colours, consider the season that your wedding will be held in. Pastels are best suited for spring or summer events, as well as tropical destination weddings. Reds and greens are more ideal for winter, while purples, aquas, and blues will look good all year round.
DRESS
Strawberry 705 Simple Silhouettes AVAILABLE
Frocks
(L) DRESS
Jolie
AVAILABLE
Sears
JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own (M) DRESS
Jessica
AVAILABLE
Sears
HEADPIECE
Stylist’s Own (R) DRESS
ADK
AVAILABLE
Bells & Bows Bridal Centre HEADPIECE
Frocks
FLOWERS
AVAILABLE
Frocks
JEWELRY
MEG
la piazza dasee JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own
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AVAILABLE
Bridal Boutique CORSAGE
la piazza dasee
(L) DRESS
6537 by Alfred Sung AVAILABLE
Bridal Debut DRESS & VEIL
Bells & Bows Bridal Centre FLOWERS
Marlow & Richards (R) DRESS
6588 - Alfred Sung AVAILABLE
Bridal Debut
Be sure when selecting dress colors that you keep your bridesmaids’ skin tones in mind. That beloved pale gold or lavender might look fantastic on you, but might make your friends look sallow. That rich ebony brown that looks so fantastic on your maid of honor might not be so flattering on the rest of your bridal party. Be open to compromise. If finding one color that looks good on all of your friends is difficult, allow each bridesmaid to wear the specific shade of that color that looks best on them. That way, all of your bridesmaids look their best while still maintaining a coordinated color scheme.
(L) DRESS
Jolie
AVAILABLE
Sears
(R) DRESS
Threads
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AVAILABLE
Frocks
DRESS
Belgoie AVAILABLE
The Lily Pad
EXTRAS G i f t s
Bridal Boutique
shoulder dusting chandeliers by Joanna Bisley. Available at My Filosphy, www.myfilosophy.com.
From fabulous jewelry to go with your gown to fantastic finds for your bridesmaids gifts, here are some ideas that will put a smile on your entire bridal party’s faces – including yours!
pearls – with a little extra glitz – are a bride’s best friend. A Joanna Bisley necklace and earring set available at My Filosphy, www.myfilosophy.com.
get your glam on with these practical but fabulous purse accessories including a manicure set, tampon case and purse hook. Available at la piazza dasee Flower Market, www.dasee.ca.
each of your bridesmaids is as unique as this bracelet that you can customize for them. Design by Trollbead, “every bead has a story”. Available at la piazza dasee Flower Market, www.dasee.ca.
rose box Nothing makes a yummier thank you than a rose box full of chocolate-dipped strawberries. Available at Edible Arrangements, www.ediblearrangements.com.
the perfect fix for last minute fitting, Hollywood Wedding Apparel Tape secretly holds clothing in place. You’ll never be caught pulling up your strapless dress again. Available at My Filosphy, www.myfilosophy.com.
whether jetting off on your honeymoon or just needing to get around easily with all of your stuff on your wedding day, the LUG Puddlejumper with wheels will help. Available at la piazza dasee Flower Market, www.dasee.ca.
something scottish – Showcase your Scottish pride with this pretty plaid garter. Available at Scottish Imports, www.anythingscottish.com.
something NEW and something BLUE. Say “I do” wearing the Hanky Panky wedding line. Available at My Filosphy, www.myfilosophy.com.
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FEATURE L i a n a C h a o u l i
The Authentic Makeover –
Just Be Yourself on Your Wedding Day By Liana Chaouli
You enter the room and take your first step down the aisle. Your radiance spills over, encompasses the room and captures the hearts of every guest. By sheer presence you preside over your domain like a queen. Your face shines more brilliantly than ever before. This is not only the day that you will always remember. It is the day that they will always remember you.
A
s an Image Therapist, I continue to be amazed at the popularity of makeover shows that focus on changing something about a person’s exterior, be it weight, clothing, or facial features. Their intention is certainly noble, but true change can only occur after you first understand you’re already a masterpiece just the way you are. You only need to beautifully represent that brilliance through your appearance. Our society is very focused on weight, so I’m often asked whether the first step in working with me through the Image Therapy process is to start dieting. My answer is always the same: No! You don’t need to lose weight to undergo a transformation. When you want to enter into the process of selfdiscovery, it has nothing to do with being a size 2 or a 22. What we are looking to bring out is the “Authentic You.” Being authentic is important for everyone and every-
day, but never so important than on your wedding day. You are an amazing cornucopia of fabulous blessings and a masterpiece just the way you are. Now, on your wedding day you just need to portray that. Your dress, jewelry, hair, and makeup may all be great, but they are only as great as the role they play in sharing your splendor with your guests. Remember, you want everyone to remember you, not your dress! The Image Therapy process begins by helping you appreciate all of your natural gifts, both your physical structure and your unique personality. Your physical appearance is the blueprint, which includes your hair and eye color, the proportions of your body, the intensity of your gaze, the sound of your voice, and the way that you walk. The gown must compliment your physical body structure. For example, if you are a tiny petite woman with a beautiful delicate frame, angelic hair, soft gazing eyes, and
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FEATURE
Liana Chaouli Image Therapist, couture designer and Executive Director of Image Therapists Intl has spent two decades advising CEO’s, celebrities and political figures on matters of personal style and image. Ms. Chaouli is a ‘go-to’ expert for numerous news sources as an image and personal stylist and appears on major TV and radio shows. She travels the world extensively working one-onone with a limited number of clients. She conducts seminars and lectures on how to dress in a way that reflects authentically one’s true personality and inner essence in all aspects of life. Knowing how to dress for a specific purpose while still looking authentic and true is possible.
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Liana Chaouli
a light wispy voice, will a huge poofy Cinderella gown reflect your Authentic Self? It won’t. You may love the dress, but remember to ask yourself, does it love you? This tangible part of your Essential Formula guides us only partway toward the style of a wedding dress that will grace your body. Once we considered the essence of your outer structure, we can focus on your inner. Your personality is very much part of your Authentic Self and must also be reflected in your choice of gown. Are you whimsical or serious? Are you intense or carefree? Are you a vamp or quiet and conservative? To present yourself authentically as you walk down the aisle and stand beside your future husband, your dress must also honor your unique character. Your wedding gown is important but you are so much more. You want your guests to see the beauty of your essence and the shining brilliance of who you are, the most important person of the wedding. “She looks divine, she looks gorgeous, she has never been more beautiful,” this is what you want to hear on your wedding day. In an Image Therapy makeover, you’re the masterpiece; your clothes are there to enhance you. They should only complement your appearance and never distract from it. Like a glittering diamond you posses so many facets. Cover up one layer and you’ll never sparkle as bright. Let your facets shine, appreciate the value of who you are on the inside and out, and be an authentic masterpiece on your wedding day.
Over the past two decades, Liana Chaouli has developed the theory and practice of Image Therapy®, an educational and therapeutic process today taught worldwide. With the command of five languages, Ms Chaouli shares her expertise as an educator at international speaking events. She privately consults with major political, personal development, and business leaders on matters of their personal and professional presence to improve attitudes affecting self-esteem and confidence. For entertainment figures, Ms Chaouli is called upon to style wardrobes for weddings and industry events. At The Academy of Image Therapy in Beverly Hills, California, she has helped design the curriculum to educate and accredit future Image Therapists. Also available at the Academy are classes and retreats, offered to help individuals with both their personal and professional needs. Ms Chaouli is a “go-to” expert for numerous news sources as an image and personal stylist and appears on major TV and radio shows. She authors articles in international, national and regional magazines, and addresses corporate groups, associations, and trade conventions on the impact of appearance on individual and corporate performance. Trained as a Couturier in Europe and a Gemologist in Germany, Ms Chaouli began her career working with Hollywood fashion designer, Bob Mackie, on his Neiman Marcus and Sacks Fifth Ave. couture clothing lines. Liana Chaouli welcomes your questions and can be reached at Liana@ImageTherapists.com. www.ImageTherapists.com
FEATURE Fashion
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: Grand Entrance
B
ridal fashions are all about soft lines and simple, playful femininity. The days of the mile-wide skirt with the trains that can double as tents for the reception are over. Slender lines dominate the runways, emphasized with light, flowing fabrics and flirty ruffled layers. Wide belts and asymmetrical rouching or draping are also en vogue, slimming the figure and creating a narrow, feminine waistline.
DRESS
Gabelina AVAILABLE
Hehiyla Bridal JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own HEADPIECE
Ladybird Bridal Designs TUXEDO
Derks Formals Hair & Make-up by Lustre Studios and The Modest Kingdom Shot on location at The Fairmount Chateau Lake Louise Shot by Andras Schram Photography Photography by Andras Schram Photography
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FEATURE F a s h i o n
Bridal Fashion Forecast 2011 Designers are going for less volume, focusing on fitted, elegant lines, and long, sweeping silhouettes. However, brides must be careful when selecting the style of their gown. Your favorite style may look great on the hanger or in the catalogue, but they may not suit all body types.
DRESS
Lustre Studios HAIR & MAKE-UP
Lustre Studios JEWELRY
Lustre Studios
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•
Elegant mermaid gowns remain popular among both brides and designers. The fitted, whimsical silhouette is most suited for the petite and slender bride, as it clings to the body, showcasing the figure, and gives the illusion of longer legs.
•
Sheath-style gowns are most flattering on boyish or petite figures. As they are fitted to the upper body and fall straight down from the hips, a slender figure is a must. This style is ideal on a shorter woman as it elongates the silhouette for the much-needed illusion of height. A train can be incorporated into the design for that added elegance.
•
Empire-waist gowns are another big trend, and are flattering on most body types. The soft, flowing Grecian lines offer a summery, romantic look that is perfect for any destination wedding. The fullness of the skirt is determined by your height; the taller you are, the fuller the skirt can be. This style is very flattering on small-busted women, and can be great for disguising a larger figure; however it can create a maternity look on those with rounder midsections.
• The widest silhouette is the universallyflattering A-line, sitting at either a natural or slightly dropped waist. A-lines follow the curve of the body, flaring at the hips, which is great for disguising problem areas and slimming larger figures. This style is well suited for two-piece designs, and is therefore the most flexible. They are often embellished with delicate crystals or a soft ruffle.
DRESS
Lustre Studios HAIR & MAKE-UP
Lustre Studios JEWELRY
Lustre Studios
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Of course all of these silhouettes are available with various necklines. Often it is the neckline rather than the cut of the dress that showcases the style of the bride, whether her tastes are modest or a little more ostentatious.
DRESS
Martina Liana AVAILABLE
Beautiful Bride JEWELRY
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry FLOWERS
Flower Fusion DRESS
Palace Athena AVAILABLE
The Lily Pad JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own HAIRPIECE
Ladybird Bridal Designs
•
Strapless necklines, both straight and sweetheart, are flattering to most women, and remain current. They highlight the collarbone and the line of the shoulders. A sweetheart line is ideal for women with larger chests because it emphasizes the décolletage. However, this style can be risky for the under-endowed bride. For those with smaller bosoms, it is recommended to select a well-fitting dress with boning in the interconstruction to prevent the occurrence of a wardrobe malfunction.
•
The single-strap silhouette continues to be a designer favourite, especially when paired with the smooth, contemporary lines of a mermaid or sheath-style gown. Its asymmetry emphasizes a pear-shaped figure, and highlights the collarbone; however it is not overly flattering on women with broad shoulders.
• Wide V-lines are popular as well, suiting both the more modest bride who may not want to risk a strapless gown, and the sleek sophisticated bride looking for a touch of old-Hollywood glamour. V-necklines are very flattering on the averagesized woman as they elongate the body and deemphasize the bust. For a softer look, pair a V-neckline with a flowing ruffle, which is a hot trend. • Halter necklines have returned again this year. They are generally more revealing than other styles, and best suited for moderately-sized to small-busted women. Women with more pronounced figures should avoid this style because it emphasizes larger proportions. Halter dresses are most flattering on women with broad shoulders and tall frames. Keep in mind that beading and appliqués emphasize the area that they are applied to. To draw attention away from the lower body, decorate only the bodice of the gown. To balance a top-heavy figure and emphasize a small waistline, choose a dress with more embellishment on the skirt.
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Of course, the hottest trend is ruffles. The soft, playful trimming is great for adding curves and femininity to boyish body shapes. Adding ruffles to the top of the bodice can add some needed volume for women who are smaller in that area. Avoid utilizing this style on already prominent features, as this will emphasize them even more. Layers that appear light and ethereal on one bride might make another look like a frosted cupcake.
DRESS
Patti’s
AVAILABLE
Beautiful Bride JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own DRESS
FLOWERS
Jasmine House Couture
Flower Fusion
AVAILABLE
The Lily Pad HAIRPIECE
Ladybird Bridal Designs JEWELRY
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry FLOWERS
Avenida Grower Direct
DRESS
Lustre Studios HAIR & MAKE-UP
Lustre Studios
Embellishment is at a minimum. Light beading along the neckor waistline of gowns is prevalent as always. Another is crystals or beading that sits at the hip, which is a great way to add a bit of sparkle to your look without adding too much weight to your gown. Lace-overlaid gowns have returned as well, and many designers are using subtle swirled appliqués and flowers on the bodices and hems of their designs to add texture and visual interest. The brightly-colored panels and embroidery that we have seen in bridal fashion over the last couple of seasons have faded out, returning to traditional white and silver, though gold lace accents and embroidery have been increasingly popular.
JEWELRY
Lustre Studios
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Rouching is also a popular style. Whether applied only at the waist, or layered over the torso, this particular technique disguises figure flaws and creates a slim, flattering silhouette. Asymmetrical or diagonal rouching provides a narrowing effect on the body, creating a line that is long and slender, emphasizing, and even creating curves.
DRESS & WRAP
The Lily Pad BRACLET & HEADPIECE
Ladybird Bridal Designs JEWELRY
Stylists Own
Some say that it is harder to commit to the gown than it is to commit to the man, but do not fret. No matter your stature, body type, or personal style, the perfect gown for you is out there. It may not be what you were originally looking for, but you will know the moment you put it on that it is the one for you.
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DRESS
Martina Liana AVAILABLE
Frocks
HEADPIECE
Ladybird Bridal FLOWERS
Flower Fusion DRESS
Cosmobella AVAILABLE
Hehiyla Bridal JEWELRY
Bridal Fantasy Jewelry FLOWERS
Wild Orchard TUXEDO
Derks Formals
DRESS
Miss Paris AVAILABLE
Hehiyla Bridal JEWELRY
Stylist’s Own
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The Bridal Party Choosing your bridal party can be an extremely hard decision. Here are a some things to keep in mind when deciding on the people who will stand with you on that special day:
• Size does matter – a bridal party can range from one attendant to a dozen. A good guide is one attendant for every 50 guests. A larger wedding party usually denotes a more formal wedding. • More isn’t always merrier – the more people in your wedding party, the more chances for complications. • ‘Paybacks’ are not necessary – just because you were in someone’s wedding party doesn’t mean you have to have them in yours. • Location is key – if you are expecting your party to be involved in a lot of the process, make sure to take where they live and/or their schedules into account. You don’t want to end up frustrated with a friend because they have prior commitments. • Guys count – you don’t have to have just girls in your bridal party! If your best friend is a guy, there is no reason he can’t be in your party (or vice versa for groomsmen). • Spread the news – as soon as you have finalized your decision, let everyone know. The only thing worse than the person who thought they were invited to your wedding is the person who thought they would be in your wedding party.
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THE LILY PAD INC. The Lily Pad is a bridal and special occasions boutique located in trendy downtown Olde Towne Okotoks, just 15 min. south of Calgary. After four years of having the boutique home-based, we’ve moved to a beautiful old heritage house, with bay windows to showcase our dresses. We enjoy spending one-on-one time with each bride. Let’s look through those photos you have to understand how you envision yourself on your wedding day. From romantic destination dresses, the classic beautiful romantic princess gown, to gorgeous couture bridal gowns, we have it all, including bridesmaid, mother of the bride/groom, evening wear and flower girl selections. We take pride in getting to know each of the select designers we carry, and we will always provide what the bride needs. You will also find a beautiful and unique selection of jewelry, veils, and other accessories in store, to complete your look. While the dress selection is the most personal and emotional part of the bride’s journey to her big day, the staff at The Lily Pad also love being a part of that special day by decorating and creating personalized fresh flower bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, and centerpieces. Our designers will assist you in choosing floral designs that carry a wealth of meaning, to make your special occasion unforgettable. “Our flowers were exquisite; you were meticulous with the decorating thinking of us the whole time, and my gown was absolutely gorgeous! It was everything we imagined and more, especially on a tight budget. Thank you for giving me so much of your time. Most of all, thank you for your friendship.” Marlene, September 2009. Lily Pad is a small but exciting, accommodating, enthusiastic and talented team. We look forward to getting to know you and assisting you in any way we can! We will make the moments leading up to your special day enjoyable and ensure your special day is truly amazing!
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FEATURE Menswear
The New Mood For Men Cool & Sophisticated
M
en’s fashions for this upcoming season reflect a major passion for design, fit, colour and texture. In the last few seasons, many men’s wardrobes have reflected the sharply tailored suit and the detailed accents to dress shirts. The trend has an obvious appeal to men who want an easy new way to express their bold streak. Over the last year there has been a major resurgence in the popularity of the waistcoat due to its popularity in men’s casual wear. It has had resurgence as a statement piece, a statement piece that says that you, the wearer, are sartorially savvy and are a cut about the rest. Having found its way to being worn casually as a stand alone piece it has sparked the waistcoats new-found popularity, and this means the return of the three piece suit. As we’ve returned to the classic cuts of menswear, then it should come as no surprise that classic cloths, patterns and fabrics are those most sought after. As an added bonus, adding classic cloths to your wardrobe allows for the inclusions of fabrics and colours that you might not otherwise have as an option. It helps you steer away from having a typical colour pallet like black, navy, and grey. SUIT
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Tiger of Sweden by Derks Menswear LADIES WEAR
C’est Sera
FEATURE Menswear
ALL SUITS
Sand by Derks Menswear LADIES WEAR
C’est Sera
Expect very little change in your classic companies for shirtings for spring 2011. Instead, it’s all in the details. For spring 2011 expect to see details like coloured buttons, reversible cuffs, button down collars, and coloured stitching. Instead of revamping the colour palettes of shirting for this spring most companies have decided to focus on improving the detail finishing and pricing on the garments. A resurgence of quality over quantity has taken over. With pocket books being tighter in the average man’s life there is less time for shopping and more demanded from basic brands.
Also notice a more green-friendly face for most brands, especially in the high end market of menswear. With the clothing industry being the second most pollutant industry in the world (keep in mind this is more reflective in the lower end market) many companies have taken a green stand point and are trying to revamp with the changing times to support our youth rather then creating more damage and harm. Notice more vegetable dyes, hemp products, and eco friendly cottons.
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FEATURE Menswear
Strellson: a Swiss Fashion Label to Fall in Love With
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he Strellson Man: Strellson is an international, innovative and self-assured lifestyle brand for men who live in the here and now and know where they are going. They expect a lot from life, and always have their eyes on the goals they are aiming for with love and devotion. This attitude is expressed in their clothing, which emphasizes the self-confident personality of the wearer and makes him feel less nervous when he proposes. Men who choose Strellson are successful, charming, and appear stylish and modern anywhere, any time. The individual look is characterized by a smart formal casualness which incorporates a certain elegance, and must be in evidence at any wedding. The brand: Strellson is a successfully established lifestyle brand, with high-quality modern products which are distinguished by their excellent cost-effectiveness. The Premium products are characterized by an elegant smart style, in which a man cuts a good figure at the office, at official occasions and at weddings. For all other occasions there is Strellson Sportswear. An informal, sporty, casual collection is essential for the honeymoon. The outfit for the perfect day: For summer weddings the bridegroom is well served by the Strellson Premium Spring/Summer 2011 collection. The outfits are inspired by influences and moods from Miami in the 80s. Light natural colours like white, cool beige and pale grey predominate, along with black. Cool mid-brown is reminiscent of wet sand, and navy blue reflects the water of the oceans. For a fashionable overall picture the summery colours are combined with darker shades. In order to give the Strellson Premium styles for spring and summer their unique and unusual character, special attention was paid to the choice of fabrics. For particular comfort in wear, traditional materials such as wool, silk and mohair were used, combined with natural fibres such as linen and cotton. The choice of light colours and high quality fabrics gives the wearer a slim silhouette in the perfect summer look for every occasion. The newly-wed husband spends the best day of the honeymoon in Strellson sportswear on the beach with his wife, while for the first dinner together as a married couple in the evening he chooses a Strellson Premium outfit. Mr. Right: at the engagement party, the stag night or on the wedding day itself, the fashion-conscious man is always perfectly dressed with Strellson. Strellson is the ideal partner for clothes, and it can be a partnership for life.
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FEATURE Formalwear
Polished Style
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very successful wedding runs like clockwork, so here’s your rundown of the groom’s traditional duties. Even though no two weddings are alike, by their very nature they share common values – because they are the product of several generations of customs. The groom’s role is remarkably straightforward. He is responsible for: • • •
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For the wedding rings Choosing a best man Organizing the particulars of the venue i.e.: the minister, renting the ceremony location, the bride and bridesmaids’ bouquets and the men’s boutonnières Transportation The honeymoon Sourcing the photographer and videographer Reception entertainment
The groom should also be at least 30 minutes early for the ceremony and he should deliver a short, amusing speech which thanks everyone, particularly the brides’ parents and tells everyone why his bride is so special to him.
TUXEDO
Perry Ellis one button peak from Derks Formals
Setting Your Tone • Traditional – just because you value tradition doesn’t mean you have to look old-fashioned for your wedding. Some great accessories and an amazing fit makes a groom stand out on his special day. • Classic – this isn’t about dressing on the safe side. Classic wedding dressing means letting good taste supersede the excess fashion element. • Modern – even grooms can dare to wear the latest formals fashion. Modern is good, just don’t chase the latest fashion fad. • Fashion Forward – it’s the small details on your tux that make the fashion difference. Things like button detailing and fabric. TUXEDO
Joseph Abboud two button notch by Derks Formals
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FEATURE Formalwear
His Vow to Wow
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rooms can expect to be captivated this season with exquisite and tasteful accessory options. When paired correctly, these accessories will define his own personal style. Trendy watches, formal shoes, and edgy cufflinks can turn an ordinary tuxedo into a polished ensemble. Foremost, the most fundamental element required is a great foundation of a classic pant, one button jacket, or a less traditional top coat combination. When you’re the groom you are setting the tone. It’s not just what you wear that matters, but also the way in which you wear it. The first rule is that people should notice you, not your clothes. Make sure your suit or tux is cleaned and pressed with your trousers carrying a sharp crease and your shoes being well polished. Make sure your clothes fit you well. Your trousers should break at the second eyelet of your lace-up shoes. The jacket arm should show a half inch of cuff. If you want to look slimmer, wear black. Whatever you choose to wear, wear it with confidence. It will make all the difference.
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TUXEDO
Derks Formals
EXTRAS Menswear
Sand... A Fashion and Family Affair Since SAND’s conception in 1981, Lene and Sören Sand have shared a vision of constantly striving for the exquisite.
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hey have channeled their passion for fashion, fit and style into an international success with SAND. From their fabrics, the fit, the details, to the overall cut of their garments, Soren and Lene create innovative and timeless pieces that consistently approach perfection. Their specialty is combining the easy going Italian lifestyle with impeccable Scandinavian craftsmanship and simplicity.
This year, SAND celebrates its 25th anniversary, and the company is more successful than ever. SAND has become a global fashion brand. Their menswear division started in 1989 – first with a casual line, but soon branched out into tailored clothing, dress shirts, ties and accessories. Their menswear now reflects a complete lifestyle line. Customers notice immediately the passion the designers have for fabric finishes that have a great durability while achieving that perfect body fit. The new 2011 line has edge and versatility. This inspirational couple put their heart and soul into each line they design, each advertising campaign they plan because creating their vision makes them happy. Their campaigns evoke artistic spirit from the beginning to end. Photography icon Helmut Newton worked with them on a glamorous three day shoot in Monaco, and their menswear is endorsed and worn by international stars like Jesper Christiansen, Alex Dimitriades, and Bryan Adams.
Lene and Sören Sand
With a true European touch, SAND has been well received in Canada. It is definitely one of the hottest, savvy new runway lines to hit the catwalk and menswear boutiques.
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The Groom: His Personal Touches
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STYLE • QUALITY • SERVICE www.dionneckwear.com
These beautiful custom Omega shirts and Dion vests and ties are made to measure. Visit Derks to have your groom select his own custom look. Each shirt is handmade, with intricate contrast lining and quality fabrics to rival the quality of Saville Row.
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My Name is Trista. I was 3.
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Help Prevent Child Sexual Abuse Register today at littlewarriors.ca
EMPOWERMENT
Relationship Revolution
Relationship Revolution When it comes to Love and Relationships You Can Make A Difference
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e want to create a Relationship Revolution in creating love, happiness and abundance through open communication. Couples need to communicate and plan together.
When it comes to marriage, the openly thing that matters is that you choose someone you can relate to and love out of authenticity, not out of expectation. With roughly half of all marriages ending in divorce- often bitter, and with both emotional and financial consequences for both parties and any children, we thought it was time we gave you some info and techniques that will help you and your relationship. You need to communicate. You need to plan. You need to be you. Don’t expect your partners to rescue you or make your life better. Marriage is a commitment by both partners to work towards a common goal. Our team hopes you put some of our experts’ tips to good use. You are the experts on your own relationship. Bridal Fantasy wants you to create a strong energy path that is framed with love and vibrates between you and out to the world.
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EMPOWERMENT
Deepak Chopra, M.D.
Experiencing Spiritual Union
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n an earlier age the poets and sages knew that falling in love is an experience of the Divine. When two people become enraptured with each other, they feel ecstasy and the delight of a timeless state of being. Any sense of isolation, pain or anxiety dissolves into the bliss. The Sufi poet Rumi expresses it beautifully: “Lovers share a sacred decree – to seek the Beloved. They roll head over heels, rushing toward the Beautiful One like a torrent of water.”
tion fades away. But that doesn’t diminish the value of the experience. Falling in love is an opening and a chance to enter a state of timeless bliss. In this transcendent space we know that the entire universe supports us and always has. If we decide to take the next step and enter into a marriage with our beloved, we have the opportunity to deepen both our partnership and our experience of spiritual union. Why We Get Married There are many reasons people get married, but I think the best reason is because they deeply love each other and dedicate themselves to each other to fulfill a spiritual love and destiny that they could not attain on their own.
In the past few centuries the spiritual dimension of love has gradually been lost, especially in the West. Modern psychologists tell us that falling in love is illusory Many marriages are actually a way of and that romance is a “projected fantasy” forming a complete person out of two we conjure up in an attempt to feel immorincomplete persons. When such marriages tal and invulnerable. However, according are successful — a tricky business, since it to the ancient seers, all love is a spiritual happens on a hidden, unspoken, sometimes path. In fact, love is spirit. When we’re in unconscious level — the spouses can say the romance phase of a relationship, we have a brief experience of who we really are “we are one person” and actually mean it. But the deepest union goes a step further – an expression of the Divine. Our sense and becomes a mutual partnerof being separate, ship of two people who each want isolated individuals to be whole. This kind of mardisappears and we Wisdom tells us riage, a spiritual union, is about know that we’re in that the initial filling in our own gaps, growing inextricable part of to fulfill our individual potential, an infinite universe. euphoria of but with an intimate ally. RelaOf course, wisdom tionships become whole as we infatuation tells us that the initial become whole. fades away euphoria of infatua-
DEEPAK CHOPRA, M.D. Co-founder of the Chopra Center for Wellbeing Recognized as one of the world’s foremost leaders in the field of mind-body medicine, Deepak Chopra, M.D. is a best-selling author, teacher, and co-founder of the Chopra Center for Wellbeing. Nestled in the lush, coastal setting of Carlsbad, California, the Chopra Center offers a wide variety of retreats and workshops that fuse the healing arts of the East with the best in modern Western medicine. Each year Deepak and the Chopra Center staff travel to beautiful locations throughout the world to lead signature events including the classic meditation retreat, Seduction of Spirit; the selfempowerment workshop, SynchroDestiny; and the Journey into Healing mindbody workshop. For more information, visit chopra. com or call 760.494.1639.
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Deepak Chopra, M.D.
Heart Meditation One of the most powerful tools for deepening our connection to our spiritual essence and wholeness is meditation. There are many kinds of meditation practices, including the Primordial Sound Meditation practice taught at the Chopra Center. Here I wish to share with you a guided heart meditation. Read through the instructions then find a quiet place where you can sit comfortably by yourself for a few minutes and not be disturbed. • There is a center in the body where love and spirit are joined, and that center is heart. Within the heart is a subtler center that experiences spirit, but you can’t feel spirit as an emotion or physical sensation. Spirit lies beneath the layers of sensations, and to experience it, you must go to the heart and meditate upon it until everything that obscures spirit is cleansed. In the words of the mystical poet William Blake, you are cleansing the doors of perception. • As you sit comfortably with your eyes closed, just this moment let go of all your thoughts and the outside world. Focus your attention on your spiritual heart center, in the middle of your chest. • Be aware of your heart as a space. The heart center is a point of awareness where feelings enter. In its essence, the heart is pure emptiness, pervaded by peace
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and a subtle light. This light may appear as white, gold, pale pink, or blue. But don’t strain to find a light of any kind. All you need to feel is whatever is there. • Resting your attention easily on your heart center, breathe gently and sense your breath flowing into your heart. You may want to visualize a soft, pastel light or coolness pervading the chest. Let your breath go in and out, and as it does, ask your heart what it needs to say. Don’t phrase this as an order . . . just have the faint intention that you want your heart to express itself. • For the next five or ten minutes, sit and listen. Your heart will begin to release emotions, memories, wishes, fears, and dreams long stored inside. As it does, you will find yourself paying attention. • You may experience a flash strong emotion – positive or negative – or an ancient memory. Your breathing may shift. You may sigh or feel tears come into your eyes. Let the experience be what it is. If you daydream or drift off into sleep, don’t worry. Just bring your attention back to your heart center. Whether your heart speaks to you in sadness or fear, delight or pleasure, its message is exactly what you need. If voices of anger, worry, or doubt start to arise, allow them to speak and then let them go, easily and
comfortably. You are learning to be with your heart in order to heed its spiritual meaning. Whether your heart speaks to you in sadness or fear, delight or pleasure, its message is exactly what you need. If voices of anger, worry, or doubt start to arise, allow them to speak and then let them go, easily and comfortably. You are learning to be with your heart in order to heed its spiritual meaning. As you practice this meditation, spending a few minutes each day to connect to your heart center, you will begin to get glimpses of your heart as it really is: silence, peace, a warm glow, or subtle light. Even if these glimpses are fleeting, you will find that your life outside of meditation is starting to change. At unexpected moments, you will feel a wave of joy and well-being sweep over you. You will begin to walk with more buoyancy in your step. These are signs that the constriction most people hold around the heart center is releasing its grip, letting go of the fear and tightness that keep spirit from entering. In truth, spirit doesn’t enter since it is always there. But making contact with it is like being penetrated with light and insight; this is the flow of love. This is the experience of wholeness.
EMPOWERMENT
Carol Ponder and Robert Kiefer
Love and Laughter Carol Ponder and Robert Kiefer Authors of How to Write Your Own Wedding Vows and Toasts: A Workbook for Brides and the Men Who Love Them vowsandtoasts@aol.com www.vowsandtoasts.com PO Box 68226 Nashville, TN 37206 PH: 615-227-3876
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umor is healing. We use it a lot, because it is one of the power tools in our own marriage. Whether we are both at home in Nashville, Tennessee or one of us is traveling the country working (very often), we talk to each other every day. We also laugh every day, especially when one of us is grumpy or during hard times of any kind. However, humor is only one face of love. Supporting each other, sustaining each other through adversity, caring for each other through ill health, enjoying each other’s company, sharing friends, creating a community of like minds wherever you go – these are some of the wonderful advantages of having a partner for life.
younger, we scoffed at the idea of never going to bed angry. Now we live by it. Making love is one seriously soulful way of growing closer to each other, but there will be days, weeks, or sometimes even months when one or the other of you simply isn’t up to it because of personal difficulties, poor health, stress, or the challenges of aging. That’s when compassion complements passion, and kindness trumps sex appeal. (As my dear husband said to me the other day, “There are a thousand ways to make love, and preparing a cup of tea is one of them.” I thanked him and drank deeply.) Drink deeply of each other. Remember your vows and all the thought that went into them. Find someone who does calligraphy, have your vows copied on great paper, and frame them. Occasionally play the DVD of wedding events, and hear the lovely things people said about and to you in toasts and tributes.
You will get angry with each other. Calling a “time out” if an argument gets out of hand is one way to de-escalate the battle. You can make up your own rules for fighting so that there is Above all, love each other, in ways that only the no irreparable damage; for example, don’t let an two of you can create together. That’s what matargument go on for longer than 20 minutes at a ters, from this time forward. time. Make notes about what you really want to say, and don’t be sidetracked by an angry retort. Agree to disagree until the next time Remember all you discuss the matter under contention (Sometimes findyour vows and ing something funny in the all the thought argument works, but that can backfire. Just ask Robert). All that went into of these suggestions are simthem. ply part of making a loving life together. When we were
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EMPOWERMENT
Dr. John Demartini
Demartini Institute How to have more fulfilling relationships and how to create more love in your life Dr John Demartini Human behavioural specialist, educator, internationally published author and sought-after authority on maximising human awareness and potential. www.drdemartini.com
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etween positively and negatively charged particles is a center point of light. Between positively and negatively charged emotions is the center point of love. The center point is what every human being already is, yet elusively still seeks. True love is our ultimate objective, whether we’re aware of it or not. We may think we’re looking for something else, something material and fleeting, but even the pursuit of transient goals just leads us back to the truth of love. The purpose of all relationships is to dissolve the barriers that keep us from recognizing the love that already is and expressing the love we ultimately are.
There are three ways to conduct a relationship, and each one has an entirely different outcome. A careless relationship is one in which you project and focus on your own values without considering your partner at all. A careful relationship is when you think in terms of your partner’s values without considering your own…this one is called “walking on eggshells”. Both are one-sided approaches that ignore the other person and create tension in the relationship. But a caring relationship is one where you communicate your values in terms of theirs. You think of both sides simultaneously, expressing your love for yourself and each other. The definition of caring is knowing someone well enough to know their values and caring enough to express your valWe each have a hierarchy of values or prioriues in terms of theirs. Whenever something ties; from the things we think are extremely supports your values, you take away the rules, important, all the way down to the things we and when something challenges your values, think don’t matter. Your priorities or values you set rules. Nations do it, companies do it dictate your destiny. Anything that supports your highest values you call “good” and are at- and you do it in relationships. You set up rules when your values feel threatened. Knowing tracted to; anything that challenges them you both yours and your partner’s values assists call “bad” and are repelled by. Your values you in mastering the art of communication. are based on the perception that something When you communicate with them, you want is missing, that a void exists. But actually to make sure that you communicate what is nothing is missing, it’s just in a form you important to you in a way that links with what haven’t recognized. You think you’re missing is important to them. When someone takes the it; therefore, you seek it, and time to communicate in your anything you think supports values you are inspired to that search you call good and Each person participate in the dialogue. anything that challenges it When someone doesn’t comexpresses love you call bad. Our values demunicate in your values, you through his or termine the way in which we switch off and the conversaconduct our relationships. her own values. tion becomes a monologue.
EMPOWERMENT
Often when we’re in a relationship, we unwisely think the other person is supposed to be like us but if any two people are exactly the same, one of them is unnecessary. The purpose of a relationship is to teach us to love the parts we’ve disowned. Each person has their own unique set of values and no two people have the same set.
work and not relationships, then we will sacrifice relationships to spend our time working.
Each person expresses love through his or her own values. A father who has a high value on education will express his love by purchasing his child a book containing information he thinks is valuable to learn. A mother who values beauty will show her love by helping her daughters or sons become more physically appealing. When we give gifts to people don’t we often give what we would most love to receive? When we honor our partner’s value system, we realize that we’re surrounded by love in forms we sometimes don’t even recognize.
1. What do you fill your space with? Have a look at what you have in your office or in your home and see what you display in your most valued space.
So you are probably wondering how to identify yours and your partner’s values? Your life demonstrates what is truly most important to you. People will often tell you what they think is important but what they take action on every day is what is really important to them. We make time for what is important to us so if we value our relationships, we will sacrifice things that are lower on our priorities to spend time with the people we value. If however we value
To determine your values ask yourself the following questions from The Demartini Value Determination Process™. When answering these questions, make sure your answers are what your life truly demonstrates:
2. How do you spend your time? We always allocate time for things that are important to us so our days are divided up with our priorities. If something is not important we keep putting it off until tomorrow. 3. How do you spend your energy? You always have energy for things that inspire you. Have a look at where you feel most vital and enthused in your day to day activities.
Dr. John Demartini
that are important to you, you will spend time organizing. 6. Where you are most disciplined and reliable? If something is important to you, you will be dedicated to doing it. 7. What do you think about or focus on most? Your mind will always focus on the things that mean something to you. You may be distracted by a phone-call or a television program but your mind will constantly wander back to the area of highest importance. 8. What do you envision or dream about most? What you envision and dream about will be in alignment with what is important to you. 9. What do you internally dialogue about most (what you talk to yourself about most)? We all speak to ourselves and we dialogue internally about what is most important to us.
4. What do you spend your money on? You will feel reluctant to spend money on things you perceive as unimportant. If something means something to you, you will always figure a way to pay for it.
10. What do you externally dialogue about most? Every person wants to communicate what is most important to them. If someone discusses something we don’t want to hear we will try to change the conversation to what is important to us.
5. Where are you most organized? Everyone has areas of order and areas of disorder in their lives. The things
11. What are you inspired about most? We are inspired by the areas of life that mean something to us so
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Dr. John Demartini
if we value children, then we will be inspired by what children do. If we value business then we will be inspired by achievements in business. 12. What do you set goals towards most? We will be willing to stretch towards goals that have meaning for us. To discover what someone else’s values are, you just need to apply the same 12 questions and observe what their life is demonstrating. What do they talk about most, what do they spend their time doing, where are they most organized and disciplined, what do they spend money on and what do they fill their space with. Once you know your values and your partner’s values, you have the key and potential to dissolving any tensions you may perceive in your relationship by simply asking how what they are doing is assisting you in the areas that are your highest values. Whenever you perceive that what someone else is inspired by supports your values, you open up to them. If you perceive that a person’s values challenge what is important to you, then you will resist them and want to change them to be more like you. The secret to a fulfilling relationship lies in your heart. You only
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require the courage to open it. Make sure you love yourself first. If you’re not appreciating and loving the true you, it is probably not any easier for others to love you. For you to experience the affection that someone else has for you – warts and all, it is wise to cherish yourself fully. That means choosing to see yourself in 360 degrees with your unique expression of every character trait. When you equally embrace your dark and light, your positive and negative, or both sides of your supposed duality, then you are ready to experience the truth and unity of love. Remember, if you can’t love yourself, if you don’t value yourself and if you wouldn’t want to make love with you then how can you expect someone else to?
EMPOWERMENT
Gary Goldstein
Produce Your Own “Box Office” Wedding Gary Goldstein www.garywgoldstein.com Gary has produced some of Hollywood’s biggest box-office successes, including Pretty Woman, The Mothman Prophecies, Under Siege and more, generating over $1 Billion at the box office, receiving multiple Academy Award nominations, People’s Choice Awards, a Golden Globe and other awards and nominations, and launching exciting careers for other in front of and behind the camera. A master storyteller, coach and strategist, Gary’s committed to everyone enjoying the richest life experience possible, both personally and professionally. Gary consistently reinvents & energizes other people’s lives, relationships and businesses, introducing ever more persuasive and powerful tools to achieve your dream results more rapidly than you may have imagined possible. As a speaker, Gary travels extensively delivering his high-impact blend of personal development, life and business strategies. Gary’s passion is being a broker of brilliant people and inspired ideas.
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just attended a wedding that made my heart sing. A wedding for the ages, a feast for the senses and heart alike, this ceremony with gathering of friends, family and loved ones will be remembered in thought and feeling, in photos and video, for generations to come. And it all began with a simple idea, beautifully communicated. All the planning and preparation were invisible to those in attendance, yet the fingerprints of their caring were evident from beginning to end. It all culminated in a ceremony and vows and visuals that made everyone feel a part of the power and intimacy of the bride and groom’s intention, choices and devotion.
This experience inspired me to write this short article in honor of the 10th anniversary of Bridal Fantasy Magazine, a tremendously valuable source of inspiration, information and guidance for so many. Over 100 people flew in from around the U.S. and abroad to participate in this multi-cultural wedding that spanned several days. Dozens of talented professionals contributed their special gifts – from the location, to the dress, invitations, bridal party and floral arrangements, beautiful food, and more. This wedding was beautifully choreographed or ‘produced’ in keeping with the bride and groom’s vision of creating an awe-inspiring emotional and spiritual experience, enduring memories and an overwhelming sense of joy, fun, celebration and community.
All those choices and details add up to a seamless, beautiful and moving experience. This couple understood they were the writer, director and producer of their wedding experience. As a result, they created and lived their very own box office hit. Like life itself, marriage will offer up its share of challenges, no different from your experience planning your wedding. From the moment of creative conception, and all the way through pre-production, production and post-production, films challenge us with one obstacle after another. Rather than resist, we anticipate, prepare and rise to the challenge, knowing the outcome is so important; knowing that weddings (like life or film) is a process, not an event. Your opportunity for growth – both individually and as a couple - is without limit. You can create your own outsized success at the box office of your life’s journey. Planning your wedding is the beginning of a long journey. Ask questions; learn all you can about your partner, their likes, dislikes, wants, needs and the reasons behind them. You are becoming ‘family’ in the deepest sense, and all feelings and opinions are equal and to be honored. When we filmed ‘Pretty Woman’, there was a sense of excitement on the set every day. Sure, we were in the business to create a hit and make money. But, more importantly, we were in it to have an extraordinary experience. Balance is so profoundly important. Have fun and appreciate where you are and where you are going. Focus on today, enjoy the ‘now’, be clear and communicate where you are going in life and you will reach your desired destination.
They envisioned the same quality of success as I did when I produced ‘Pretty Woman’. They began well in advance by communicating their desires, the look and feel and emotions they wanted all to experience, I’m just returned from a wedding that made my heart sing because it was so beautifully clear how the same as I’ve done to give a film every opportuthey arrived at the moment of this deeply heartfelt nity to become a true box office hit. ceremony. How we arrive, it turns They told a story. They shared that out, is more important than the fact story equally and consistently with ...learn all you of having arrived. Enjoy this prethe entire ‘cast’ and ‘crew’ – guests, can about your cious experience as you choose and family, anyone involved with any plan how to enter upon your future facet of the experience. partner... together.
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WEDDING WATCH
A Call to
Action
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ridal Fantasy would like to recognize and show our support to the brave men and women of the Canadian Forces. These individuals are fighting for and protecting our freedom abroad. They leave behind family, friends, and loved ones in the duty of their country and it takes a lot of love, support, dedication to create a healthy marriage. We had the chance to spend some time with our couple, Kristi and Bradley Priddle. It is wonderful to see two individuals so in love and committed to each other. Bradley is committed to a life long military career and Kristi comes from a military family. We wish you both much happiness and love. Thank you to all of our Canadian Forces! We truly appreciate what you do. In our other real weddings check out Curtis and Amy’s beautiful wedding in Manchester, USA at Curtis’ family estate while on summer break from the University of Alberta. Priscilla and Matthew had a gorgeous but completely un-traditional wedding theme when they tied the knot on Halloween. We also have a peek at Erin Isfeld’s (from CTV Edmonton) amazing outdoor wedding in our Celebrity Wedding Watch. Enjoy!
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Bradley and Kristi Priddle August 28, 2010
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Military Match
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rad and I met just over 2 years ago, Sept of 2008, out in the backwoods of Hinton. We were both out on a camping/dirt biking weekend with friends and as fate would have it, we happened to set up our campsites next to each other, and the rest is our fairy tale story. Over the next 2 years of dating and leading up to our wedding, we lived in the same city for approximately 7 months and learned a lot about communicating over the phone, IM and Facebook. In fact, about 2 weeks before he was to return home after being away for 8 months, he asked me to marry him...over the phone. Then when he arrived home he asked me the traditional way, on bended knee. True to our love of dirt biking, I asked that he save the money he could spend on an expensive ring and put it towards my very own “engagement” dirt bike. Which he did and I’ve since put many miles it alongside him.....actually we went riding out with friends and family the day after our wedding!! With Brad being in the Canadian Armed Forces, and a member of the Lord Strathcona’s here in Edmonton, we wanted to have a military themed wedding. My father is also a serving member of the Forces, and many years ago I was also in the military, so it seemed a fitting way to celebrate our wedding.
....from the minute I woke up to the minute we went to bed it was the BEST day of my life...
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The day itself couldn’t have gone any better (besides one of the groomsmen being MIA, but who was quickly ap-
WEDDING WATCH
Bradley and Kristi Priddle August 28, 2010
prehended)....from the minute I woke up to the minute we went to bed it was the BEST day of my life...and I’m fairly certain I can speak for Brad that it was the best day of his life too!
Ceremony Venue
The entire wedding, which was kept to a simple black and white color scheme, was held at CFB Edmonton with the ceremony at St. Luke’s Church and the reception at the Officers Mess on base. After the ceremony Brad and I were taken away in the back of one of his Regiment’s Coyotes (a military light armoured vehicle) to our pictures that we had taken at the golf course on base. The rest of the evening was spent celebrating with friends and family and we have many amazing memories from our “perfect day.”
Father Van-Smeerdyk
The Bridal House
Reception Venue Officers Mess CFB Edmonton
Officiant Beauty
hair Paula with Aveda Academy on Whyte makeup Anita Gill- MAC freelance makeup artist
Bridal Gown Sposabella
Bridal Party Dresses ABC Bridal
Groom’s attire Moores
Groomsman attire Moores
Cake
Flirt Cupcakes
Caterer
Elizabeathen
Décor
We decorated ourselves
Entertainment Long Way Down
Flowers
Jodi’s Grower Direct
Rings
We ordered them online...we both wanted titanium and few jewellers sell it.
Favours
We made a donation instead.
Invitations/Programs Elaine Wong- Stampin’ Up!
Photographer
Morris Chirka with Morris Chirka Photography
Videography Tony Rader
Photography location CFB Edmonton golf course
Honeymoon destination
We toured all around the Okanagan.
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Amy and Curtis Fowlie August 21, 2010
WEDDING WATCH
Timeless Tradition
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my and I met while attending the University of Alberta. We got engaged on July 1st, 2008 (Amy’s birthday) on a cliff overlooking the ocean during a summer vacation at my family’s estate in Manchester-by-the-sea, Massachusetts. My family is fortunate enough to have an estate in the vacation town of Manchesterby-the-sea, Massachusetts. The estate was originally bought by my great great grandfather, Greely S. Curtis (my namesake). The estate has been in my family since 1867 and I have spent every summer there since I was born. The estate is 40 acres and spans 1/3 of a mile of oceanfront. There are 5 houses on the estate, a stable, an orchard and tennis court. My grandparents and my parents were married at the Hopkinson House so we thought it would be fitting to have our wedding at the same house to keep the tradition going. The Hopkinson House is the house that my grandmother grew up in. The Stone House (where the reception was) was the home of Greely S. Curtis and is a beautiful place to host a party. We had 67 guests at the wedding, so it was very nice and intimate. Our friends and family were invited to stay on the estate with us during the week prior and the week following the wedding. We kept the colors gentle with a cream, gold and a slight accent of the mallard green as to not distract from the foliage and natural colors around the houses. It was a beautiful day and we had so many great moments with everyone over the two weeks. Amy and I have both modeled for Derks and for Bridal Fantasy and I have done other fashion shows, TV spots and magazine shoots for Derks.
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WEDDING WATCH
Amy and Curtis Fowlie August 21, 2010
Ceremony Venue
The Hopkinson House on The Sharksmouth Estate, Manchester-by-the-sea, Massachusetts
Reception Venue The Stone House on The Sharksmouth Estate, Manchester-by-the-sea, Massachusetts
Officiant
Daniel Ferguson (Amy’s Uncle)
Beauty hair Annie makeup Faces Boston by Louise Martino
Bridal Gown
Pronovias from Novelle Bridal
Bridal Party Dresses Narcissist “The Pamela” in mallard from Floc Boutique
Groom’s attire
Sand Suit from Derks
Groomsman attire Sand Suits from Derks
Cake
Cakes for Occasions
Caterer
Creative Catering
Décor
Combination of the caterer and the florist
Entertainment
The groom sang to the bride with acoustic guitar
Flowers Bloomings
Rings
Concord Diamond
Favours
The groom’s mother Maggie is a potter and made gifts for the guests.
Invitations/Programs Made by bride, groom, family and friends
Photographer
Jessica Fern Facette
Videography Tony Rader
Photography location The Sharksmouth Estate in Manchester-by-the-sea
Honeymoon destination
Moved abroad to San Diego, California
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WEDDING WATCH
Matthew & Priscilla Khalil October 31, 2010
Unusual Elegance
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atthew & Priscilla have been friends for over ten years and celebrated five years of dating just two weeks before their Halloween nuptials. Their wedding was an elegant black tie event with a Halloween, gothic or forest-y twist apparent in all the details. Held at the Art Gallery of Alberta, the day of their dreams was an expression of each of their personalities. From the life-size zombie and spooky table names to the crow covered willow archway and jack ‘o’ lantern cake - this wedding was all about the little things. The ceremony took place in the theatre at the AGA, then, while the wedding part went out for pictures, guests were given their choice of free admission to go at their own pace, or a guided tour of the current exhibitions on at the AGA. After photos, everyone reconvened for an amazing 4 course meal catered by ZINCatering in the main hall at the AGA. The cake, centrepieces, all decor, accessories, entertainment, signage and card box were all DIY with the help of Matthew and Priscilla’s family and friends. This wedding was unique, full of personality and definitely not your typical wedding - just like the couple.
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WEDDING WATCH
Matthew & Priscilla Khalil October 31, 2010
Ceremony & Reception Venue
Art Gallery of Alberta
Officiant
Dawn Green
Beauty hair & makeup
Glamazon Beauty
Headpiece & Veil
Custom from Headcase Hats
Bridal Gown ABC Bridal
Bridal Party Dresses
they each found their own one was from Mars & Venus on Whyte in Edmonton, the other was bought online, Alfred Angelo
Groom’s attire
Derk’s Formals and Menswear
Groomsman attire Derk’s Formals and Menswear
Cake DIY
Caterer
ZINCatering at the AGA
Décor DIY
Entertainment DIY
Favours DIY
Invitations/Programs DIY
Photographer
JAG Photography
Photography location AGA, Mill Creek Ravine and the Edmonton Cemetery
Honeymoon destination
The Mayan Rivera
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Jennifer and Brett Jackson March 22, 2010
WEDDING WATCH
Country Boy Meets City Girl
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or Jennifer O’Brien and Brett Jackson remembering their anniversary will be unforgettable! Wed one year to the day they were engaged in beautiful Hawaii and two years to the day from when they first met. March 22, 2008 the pair crossed paths in a bookstore while eyeing the same book. On March 22, 2010 they formed their perpetual union within the exquisite CPR Pavilion in Calgary’s Fairmont Palliser Hotel. As one of Calgary’s favorite architectural buildings, the Canadian Pacific Railway Pavilion was elegantly decorated in black & white to compliment the building’s railway theme along with it’s steel frame, glass walls and luxurious 1920’s era railcars. Upon entering Jennifer and Brett’s wedding, it truly felt like a step back to a time of sheer elegance and charm. Guests were greeted by the classic music of a string quartet and were asked to add their special touch by painting on a large ‘guest art’ canvas for the bride and groom. It was important to Jennifer and Brett to express their love and commitment for each other in a personal way, so they wrote their own wedding vows. Family came all the way from the east coast of Newfoundland to the west coast of California to celebrate with the couple. Jennifer and Brett’s wedding photos were absolutely breathtaking! On their wedding invitation, the opening line was ‘Country Boy Meets City Girl’ and the wedding photos displayed just that. For the city girl, stylish modern photos were taken in Calgary and for the country boy, rustic western photos were taken in the country at the set for the movie ‘The Assassination of Jessie James’. Jennifer and Brett’s wedding was the definitely of love and romance.
WEDDING WATCH
Jennifer and Brett Jackson March 22, 2010
Ceremony & Reception Venue
CPR Pavilion at the Fairmont Palliser Hotel
Officiant
Brenda Romanchuk of 2 Become 1
Beauty
hair Sam Ajrouch of Accentric Salon & Spa makeup RnR Wellness Spa at the Fairmont Palliser Hotel
Bridal Gown Ethos Bridal
Groom’s attire
Derk’s Formals and Menswear
Caterer
Fairmont Palliser Hotel
Décor
Shay Vickers of Wedding N Thingz
Guest Art Canvas
Cherry Deacon of College Gallery at Art Central
Entertainment
The Sunrise String Quartet
Flowers
Monica Petryk of Modern Petals
Favours
In lieu of favors, a donation was made on behalf of our guests to the ‘Humane Society’ to benefit rescued and abandoned animals.
Invitations/Programs Stephita Inc.
Photographer
Heather Ward Photography
Slideshow
Paul Paskevich of PTwice Productions
Photography location Fairmont Palliser Hotel, Uptown Theatre, Teatros, McDougall Centre, CPR Pavilion & ‘The Assassination of Jessie James’ Movie Set.
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Jessica and Johann July 3, 2010
WEDDING WATCH
Long Distance Love
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lanning a wedding is never easy. But if you met in Halifax and lived in Toronto before moving to Calgary to be closer to family in Vancouver. the task can be mindboggling. For Jessica, a freelance journalist, and Johann, a masters student in environmental design, a cross-country network of friends and family was both a challenge and an advantage. They quickly settled on Toronto for the wedding location. The groom’s attire was purchased in Calgary, while the bride found hers in Halifax (a hand-made birdcage veil from her aunt) and Toronto (gown and bridesmaid dress). Their dÊcor came from across the country.
Like their colour choices (deep, vintage red with peacock feather accents) Jessica and Johann wanted a wedding that was both formal and fun. They had an early, outdoor ceremony set to live performances of Bach and Chopin. Church bells from the nearby St. James Cathedral rang in their vows. A champagne reception followed, with dancing. After a quick photo session, their fifty or so guests sat inside for a three course lunch. The bride and groom, along with their siblings and cousins, then drove three hours east to the Kyser family farm. There, an additional 75 of their friends were waiting under a large white tent, hung with red paper lanterns. After a buffet dinner and a few speeches, the serve-yourself bar and a large sound system provided a nightclub-like atmosphere for dancing. A campfire, closer to the lakefront, allowed for star-gazing and guitar playing. A complimentary shuttle ensured all guests arrived home safely at the end of the night (or early the next morning).
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WEDDING WATCH
Jessica and Johann July 3, 2010
Ceremony Venue
La Maquette & Toronto Sculpture Garden
Reception Venue
Kyser family farm, with rentals from Thompson Tents and It’s My Potty.
Officiant
Stuart Watson, All Seasons Weddings (Toronto)
Beauty
hair & makeup Civello, Queen West location nails 10 Spot Nails, Queen West
Bridal Gown Ferre Sposa
Groom’s attire
David Colonna Clothiers Ltd
Cake
Dufflet Pastries (ceremony) Jacki Whiteley (reception)
Caterer
La Maquette, Sans Souci Special Occasions & The Real Jerk
Décor
www.weddingthings.com, www. lunabazaar.com, and www. beau-coup.com
Reception Rentals
Thompson Tents & It’s My Potty
Lighting
www.weddingthings.com, www. lunabazaar.com, and www. beau-coup.com
Entertainment
Pianist Trevor Beecroft, soprano Antonella Cavallaro, violinist Emily Sun, cellist Zaida Nassirov
Flowers
Terrain Flowers
Favours
Silver covered almonds, lollipops with Jess & Jo stickers on them, Project:Humanity handkerchiefs for men & purses for women
Invitations/Programs
Paper, Box, Scissors & Reid’s Party Supplies
Photographer
Maryam Siddiqi Bruce Carruthers
Honeymoon Destinations
Europe - France, Italy, Croatia, Hungary, Austria, Czech Republic, Germany
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Erin Isfeld and Brad Harsch July 17, 2010
WEDDING WATCH
Celebrity Wedding Watch with CTV’s Erin Isfeld
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rin Isfeld, CTV Edmonton Reporter and Anchor, joined the CTV Edmonton family 5 ½ years ago and is proud to call this city home.
Erin met the love of her life Brad, a city of Edmonton Police officer in February 2009; the two connected on eHarmony. Between Brad’s shift work and Erin’s busy television broadcasting career, meeting on-line was the perfect fit. Since then, they’ve grown into a couple with tremendous admiration for one another. Brad proposed just before Christmas at CHOP Steakhouse & Bar in the west end, the same place they met 10 months earlier. Their engagement was a wonderful Christmas surprise for their families. Erin’s Wedding Story… We wanted our wedding to reflect the kind of couple we are, relaxed and fun. Also, we don’t take ourselves too seriously; the goal was for our guests to sit back and enjoy the show with just as many laughs as joyous tears. Tying the knot outside and embracing nature and the beauty of Edmonton’s River Valley was important to us. Despite Edmonton’s rainy summer, the day turned out perfectly. Our ceremony took place in a clearing in the trees right beside the 2-storey lodge at Blue Meadows. For décor we were inspired by the texture of burlap and deep purple with green apple accent colours. The kiss balls anchored our aisle with Japanese lanterns dancing in the breeze of the trees.
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For our reception, we decided to “take the outdoors in” for our centerpieces. We placed large manzanita tree branches in vases with burlap wraps, tucked green and purple hydrangeas in around the trees and used hanging votives for a gorgeous glow when the lights went down.
WEDDING WATCH
Erin Isfeld and Brad Harsch July 17, 2010
Ceremony Venue
Blue Meadows - Outdoor Garden
Reception Venue Blue Meadows
Officiant
Bill Pisarchuk
Beauty
hair & makeup Astrid Woodard - Eclectica
Bridal Gown
Pure Bridal, Designer: Mikaella
Bridal Party Dresses Designer: Dessy
Groom’s attire
Derks Formal Wear
Groomsman attire Derks Formal Wear
Cake
An orginal design by myself and my matron-of-honour, Michelle Stead -- A 3-tier round Rice Krispies cake with flower accents by Studio Bloom
Caterer
Elizabeathen Catering
Wedding Planner Clockwork Wedding Productions
Disk Jockey
Infinite Event Services
Flowers
Studio Bloom
Rings
Kline Fine Jewellery & Design
Favours
Program Fans, and golf balls with cartoon bride and groom
Invitations/Programs Evergreen Stationers
Photographer
Ryan Jackson Photography
Videography
John Macklin (CTV Edmonton)
Photography location
Blackhawk Golf Club & Blue Meadows
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Cultural Color
Indian Wedding Traditions
Sweets, eggs, and money are woven into the wedding themes of India. They symbolize respectively: a sweet life, fertility, and prosperity. Traditionally, an Indian bride will be extravagant in dressing and accessorizing for her wedding. Brides wear pink and red saris and adorn themselves as lavishly as possibly with jewellery and accessories. Henna staining is also a customary art form that is still very much practiced today. On the eve of an Indian bride’s wedding vows, following a traditional ceremonial cleansing, the bride-to-be will have her hands and feet painted with henna, in beautiful and intricate patterns. A special wedding gift is usually given to the bride (a necklace) that symbolizes her married status. As well, an Indian groom will often wear a turban with a veil of flowers streaming down in from of his fact to protect him from evil spirits.
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An Indian wedding is usually filled with numerous fun-filled and sacred rituals. Some include: • A Hindu tradition: Sisters-in-law hiding the shoes of their “jiji” or brother-in-law and will return them only in exchange for money. • The hands of the couple are covered with a sacred cloth to ward off ill omens and evil eye during the pheras. • Another ritual found in almost every community is when the groom brings home his new bride. The groom’s sisters block the entrance to the home and demand money from their brother as a shagun before they let him in. This is a fun filled and amusing ritual.
Mexican Wedding Traditions
Traditionally, the Mexican groom will give his fiancé a wedding gift of thirteen gold coins as a symbol of his unquestionable trust and confidence. By placing his goods into her care and safekeeping, the bride’s acceptance symbolizes her acceptance of his trust and confidence unconditionally with total dedication and prudence. During the wedding ceremony the coins are blessed by the priest and a white ribbon called a “lasso,” is wrapped around the necks of the bride and groom. The ribbon symbolizes their joining. As the newlyweds leave the church, red beads may be tossed over them to bring good luck. At the wedding reception, guests will often form a heart around the newlyweds as they have their first dance as husband and wife. The food you’re likely to see at a Mexican wedding includes: spicy rice, beans, tortilla dishes, and deliciously cold sangria drinks. Salsa, merengue, and flamenco guitar music will play in the background to create that perfectly authentic Latin atmosphere. Last but not least, at a classic Mexican wedding, the wedding cake is usually a fruitcake soaked in rum.
Japanese Wedding Traditions
Traditional Japanese wedding ceremonies are Shinto-style and are held at shrines. Brides wear a traditional kimono called shiromuku (white kimono robe) and grooms will wear montsuki (black formal kimono), haori (kimono jacket), and hakama (kimono pants). It is common that only family members and close relatives attend the Shinto-style wedding ceremony that consists of sake drinking, rituals, exchanging of wedding rings, and more. After the wedding ceremony, wedding reception parties called “kekkon hiroen” are held where relatives, friends, co-workers, and neighbors are all invited. At the wedding reception, the newlyweds will usually be seated on a stage where they can enjoy listening and watching the speeches and performances of their guests. It is also very common that the bride and groom will change costumes a few times during the reception. After the wedding ceremony, the bride will usually change into a red kimono and later on into a western-style gown. Guests are expected to offer the couple goshugi (money) as a wedding gift in a special envelope called shugi-bukoro – the amount is usually dependent on your relationship to the couple (unless a fixed amount is indicated on the invitation card) and it is polite to use new bills with no creasing. Japanese wedding favors are called hikidemono and they often consist of table wares, sweets, interiors, etc. More recently, gift catalogues from which guests can choose gifts from are popular for hikidemono.
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EMPOWERMENT
Laurel Vespi
No Waiting Required Laurel Vespi is a certified life coach, motivational speaker and the author of the award winning book Spontaneous Combustion: Setting Your Life on Fire. She loves helping people find more balance, fun and satisfaction in their lives. You can learn more about Laurel at www.stonecirclecoaching.com
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hew! After months of planning, eventually the wedding is over and it’s on to the marriage. For some couples marriage will last for decades. What sets them apart? They understand that marriage takes work. You can’t coast through it and expect it to last. Work doesn’t have to mean unpleasant or hard. It simply means as a couple you need commitment and focus. Here are some ideas to help you keep your relationship strong: • Create a weekly check-in to see how you are doing. There’s a big difference between minor tweaking and a major overhaul. Most of the big problems couples encounter started out as little things. Without a way to pay attention to and respond to them, they can turn into something bigger. Set aside time each week to sit down with each other and talk about how the week went. Not about the million things on your to-do lists, but about how you are feeling as a couple. It can be as simple as asking “On a scale of 1 - 10, how did we do this week?” Be open. Your 8 might have been a 4 for your partner. Then ask another simple question, “What do we need to do next week to make it as good or better?” It could be something like spending more time together, dropping a commitment, or giving each other some space. Having a positive and ongoing dialogue about your relationship helps to keep you both present to what’s working and what might need tweaking.
• Keep getting to know your spouse. Once you think you know everything about your partner,
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you will miss new things to learn. Over time our preferences change and our interests shift. Couples who don’t take the time to keep up to date with each other wake up one day as strangers. Keep the same curiosity you had about your partner when you first met. Know each other’s likes and dislikes, current stressors, worries, hopes and dreams. Think of this as a life-long conversation. • Make a life list together. People often think a life list, or bucket list, is something that you do near the end of your life but that misses the whole point of it. A life list can be a powerful planning tool and conversation starter. Begin by creating individual life lists. Write down all the things you would like to learn, experience and try during your life. Then compare lists. Find common life goals and use them to do some annual or long-term planning. At the beginning of each year, choose a life goal to work on together. This activity also reinforces that although you are part of a couple, you are still an individual with your own unique life goals. Talk about how you can support each other in achieving your individual goals. Remember that a life list is a dynamic activity. It’s meant to grow and change along with your interests. • Give up needing to be right all the time. We all have our preferences and opinions so it’s easy to feel the need to defend our way of doing things. Lots of minor disagreements are about things that are really not important. Throughout the course of your marriage, there will be lots of things that you will need
Everyone is waiting for something. Waiting to lose weight, have more time, for things to change or to win the lottery.
to negotiate. Save your energy for the things that really matter. It’s okay to let your spouse be right! • One of the wonderful things about a long-term relationship is a feeling of comfort and familiarity. That can also be a danger zone. When we become too comfortable, we often begin to take things for granted, especially about our partner. It’s easy to slip into thinking that your spouse knows how much you care and therefore you don’t have to show it as often. By regularly showing your appreciation in small ways you continue to strengthen your bond.
The problem with waiting is that time and life are passing you by. Spontaneous Combustion explores why we put life on hold and shows us how to stop waiting and start setting our lives on fire. What are you waiting for? This award winning book, by certified life coach Laurel Vespi, is available on line at www.stonecirclecoaching.com
Even though you waited for your wedding day, you didn’t do it passively. It took planning, focus and patience. These skills will serve you well as you continue to deepen your relationship throughout your marriage. No waiting required!
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EMPOWERMENT
Satyan and Suzanne Raja
How Can We Make This Last Forever? Satyen and Suzanne Raja, founders and visionaries behind The Get A Life Company, have taught thousands of people around the world how to Get Real, Get Shaped, Get Money and Get It On! www.thegetalifecompany.com
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hat she can do: Offer him more trust than he deserves and keep offering more trust daily. Trust his actions, his impressions, his direction - not from a place of helplessness or weakness within you, but from a place of fanning the flames of nobility in him. Show him your devotional strength in little things you do; how you greet him from a long day of work. Look deeply in his eyes, seeing the part of him that’s the weary warrior - feeling burdened by all his responsibilities. Look at him with every part of your being; with your gaze, with your words, with your touch. Find ways to make him feel his efforts in the world mean something - that they’re valid and significant - that his direction and his intention in the world are paying off and will continue to pay off. Do that through your touch and words, offering him praise for who he is, what he’s doing, and how he does things.
your deepest, authentic heart - praise that may even make you feel shy and reveal a little bit of yourself. Go to the edge of your vulnerability, and from that place offer your deepest devotional praise and love to her. When you offer her praise for who she’s being and what she’s doing, she starts to feel bubbly and lighter inside. Now create a spontaneous excursion to surprise her. Constantly keep her guessing about what you’re going to do next. And remember - lots of humor! Keeping Steamy Alive What they can do: One of you take on more of the dominant, claiming, ravishing role. The other one take on the opposite role, the one being ravished, taken, pressed into surrender, and embraced with strong, deep, penetrating love. Play these poles. Replay them not just in the bedroom, but throughout the day. When one of you is doing dishes, rather than keeping it neutral one of you take on the game of playing Casanova. In the ravisher’s role say things like, “You’re mine, I love you, I’m taking you fully.” Let your strong words and strong grip of love be sourced in the part of you that’s most tender and loves your partner deeply.
What he can do: Offer her daily appreciation. Praise who she is and what she does from the depth of her being, her inner beauty and radiance - the light There is of her heart. Notice in her eyes something something that’s bright and alive, full of life, shining, and radiant. bigger than Offer her continuous praise from
your vows.
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Feel each other: what will make your partner open up moment by moment? What would bring them pleasure? What would deepen
EMPOWERMENT
their trust in you? Take each other to the edge of trust in a loving, edgy way. Once you’re able to establish this level of trust with each other, play consciously back and forth between ravisher and ravishee. Sometimes you go really wild like animals: sweating, kicking, biting, pinching, yelling, screaming, and clawing. Growl from the animal within you. Another time move to the lighter scale of things where you touch each other and share beautiful words of praise and love and stroke each other for hours with poetry, music, tenderness and gentleness. Be willing to play the extremes from the side of gentle, light, tender and delicate to ferociously wild, intense, gripping, and heart wrenching and soul searing.
you wish to create this relationship, my dearest? What shall we create together? How can we create more joy together?” Cleave to each other when the foundations of life get shaky. Recognize those as the times to temper, to strengthen any weaknesses within you from your love for each other, from your commitment to something bigger.
Satyan and Suzanne Raja
this one, your most beloved, will pass. Be able to envision the end of your life, and look back to the beginning of your love affair. Know that you gave each other more and grew each other more in this union than you could have alone. You learned to give and receive in ways that continuously marveled yourself and sweetened the love that’s possible.
Find that big why. Allow the yearning within you to have a relationship that is beyond just this personality - this person who is slowly fading year after year. The biggest why is found in knowing that
What they should know: There is something bigger than your vows. That is your big WHY. Your WHY is more important than any vow that’s dictated by something outside of you or by convention or tradition, or just sourced in a feel good moment. Deeper than a vow is a commitment to something that’s more fundamental than any superficial pact. And that is the biggest WHY. Find out and investigate, and always share with each other what you want with this relationship. “Beloved, how do
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EMPOWERMENT
Shellie Hunt
The Empowered Woman We are the Modern Woman
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e are the women of today, not the women of 20 years ago who were faced with an either/or choice. A choice between either sacrificing family for career or career for family. We stand authentically empowered and we seek balance in our lives knowing it is possible for us to have it all. Both a great marriage and a fantastic career come from balance and technique that most of us were not exposed to. Most of us either had women in our lives who were like my grandmother who was strictly a homemaker or women like my mother who stood and burned her bra as a first line corporate executive. Today we embrace all parts of that which we are that make us whole as women. We are the daughters, the sisters, the friends, the lovers, and the wives, and we accept our love and ourselves in wholeness. We are the groundbreaking generation for empowered women who follow. As we set new standards, we do so with more knowledge, kindness, and understanding. Successful relationships all have some things in common and I have included a few guidelines to obtain that success. First is communication. As women, we are Omni-directional and we can multi-task easily. Men, on the other hand, are much more lateral thinking. Give him A to B, one step at time. It is proven that we, as women, make more decisions by ten in the morning than a man normally does all day long. This is simply because our brains are physically and scientifically wired differently. If anyone has ever wondered if this has any truth to it, then all you need to do is have your guy sit at the table with you and three of your girlfriends. While the girls start out talking on one subject, instantly switch to another for a moment, and quickly go back to the original subject of conversation, women will follow the conversation. However, typically you will find your guy wondering what shoes have to do with chocolate. He will still be
wondering where the first conversation went or will have given up trying to follow your multiple subjects going on at the same time. This is something I have seen in my work with couples time and time again. When we recognize this, it can make clearer communication much easier, leading to greater partnership and a more lasting degree of intimacy in the long run. This knowledge is a key to lasting relationships and marriages. The second great key is what I call leveling the waters. It comes from an old Indian story that goes something like this – the Indian warriors would go out of the village for several days at a time to hunt and when they returned, they would circle outside the village and camp for several days. They knew they had been in a different mode, a warrior mode, and yet the village had gone on with its day-to-day calm and relaxed pace. We, as modern women, could easily take our work mode home (Joan of Arc personality instead of the wife personality). But, what if you just sat at the end of your street or driveway (or any type of ritual that works for you) and just let the day go, allowing you to walk into your home and return to your family with a calmer and more relaxed attitude. There is great value in this. Keeping your personal and intimate time separate from your work time is crucial to having balance in a woman’s life. The third and final key is making your home a place of sanctuary. It should be a retreat from the rest of the world for you and your new husband. Your own love nest, so to speak. The world can be crazy enough and it is a fact that those couples that have a joint place of peace and intimacy find a more lasting connection, in-depth love, and better lovemaking.
Shellie Hunt is an Entrepreneur, Author, Trauma Expert, CEO and Founder of Success is by Design, LLC, & currently 4 other businesses. She is the Creator/Executive Producer of 2 TV Shows launching soon. Shellie’s expertise and passion is evident in her Women’s Empowerment projects and her mission to enable 1 million Women Entrepreneurs in Power, Business, and Community. www.successisbydesign.com Shellie has appeared on CNN/ HLN, Forbes, International Press and national talk and radio shows with audiences in the millions. With Shellie Hunt, you will discover for yourself the tools and techniques for your own proven success. Shellie teaches all of us that Success is not something that happens to the lucky or the gifted…, “SUCCESS IS BY DESIGN” And your time is NOW!
As we move into the future, we are becoming the women forerunners for a new way of living. And we can do it without the old guilt of the past. We can be the guides of our new future. We can set the new examples for women that will bring more harmony to our home, life, and love.
...we accept our love and ourselves in wholeness
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It’s never too late —or too early— to get yourself on the path to financial security!
Follow us on: HarperCollins.ca HarperCollins Canada @HarperCollinsCA
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EMPOWERMENT
Gail Vaz-Oxlade
Married & Moving Forward Match your dreams to reality
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sychologists have identified a phenomenon that’s probably been around as long as the Jack & Jill but hasn’t been talked about much: The Post-wedding Blues. After the frantic build-up to the big day, the let-down can be huge, particularly for brides. If you’ve been managing a team of service providers, coordinating a b’zillion details and spending like there’s no tomorrow, the day after can seem like the big fizzle. Now it’s time to get down to the business of life. And if you want that life to be fabulous, you have to come to terms with your reality. While it’s wonderful to dream that you could make every day your wedding day where everyone does your bidding and money isn’t top of mind, it’s time to grow up and get real. The only way you’ll be able to create a life that is satisfying and magical – yes, there is magic still to come – is to set some realistic expectations. Don’t just pull wishes out of the air and then hope that you can make them come true. “I want to own my own McMansion by this time next year” may be a little bigger bite than you can chew. Instead, figure out what you really, really want, prioritize your goals and then create the plan to make it all come to pass.
Whether you want to own your own home, start a family or go into business for yourself, you need to break your goal down into manageable steps. Step #1: Talk to your partner.
Now that you’re part of a family, you can’t go off half-cocked, assuming your buddy is on the same page as you. You’ve got to talk about it. Sit down and discuss what it is you each want to achieve, and what kind of timeline you each have in mind. Your new life partner may want to have children, but may want to wait a year or four until you’re settled in a home of your own. You, on the other hand, may be dying to get pregnant. Step #2 is to work out a time frame that meets both your needs.
Gail Vaz-Oxlade is the host of “Til Debt Do U$ Part” and “Princess” on Slice. Gail blogs daily at her website, gailvazoxlade.com. Gail’s book, Debt-Free Forever, published by HarperCollins shot to the top of the bestseller list in 2010. Her latest book, Never Too Late, is poised to do the same thing in 2011.
Which brings us to Step #3: make a plan that lets you achieve this dream without putting your new family at risk financially. Will you live on one income and bank the rest so you can save up for a down payment on a home? Will you practice living on one income so that when baby does come along you have a big fat slush fund to supplement your paltry maternity benefits? Will you delay your family long enough to get your student loans paid off? Figure out what’s important to both of you and plan together to make your real life work.
Now that you’re married and moving forward together, you can use each other’s strengths to keep you on track. Share your dreams. Talk about your expectations. And make a plan that takes you from where you are now to where you want to be. Working as a Figure team, you can make all your out what’s dreams come true. important to
both of you and plan together to make your real life work.
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Darren Jacklin
Living an Inspired Life Together Darren Jacklin World Class Professional Speaker, Corporate Trainer, Best-Selling Author, Television Celebrity Darren Jacklin displays his uncanny ability to increase income, wealth, and success by uncovering hidden assets, overlooked opportunities and undervalued possibilities has captured the attention and respect of NBC, CBS, Sharing Success TV, The Manifest-Station TV, authors, entrepreneurs and marketing experts world-wide. For almost two decades, Darren has traveled the planet and dedicated his life to discovering the most advanced principles for producing specific and measurable accelerated results. As a World Authority on “Making Your Dreams Real” he has trained personnel from more than 130 Fortune 500 companies such as Microsoft, AT&T, Air Canada, as well as high school and professional athletes from more than 36 countries. Darren is known around the world as the Mega Manifestor. Tell Darren what you really, really, REALLY want in your personal or professional life and he can show you how to get it! He has helped people to manifest dream jobs, relationships, joint venture partners, automobiles, vacations and so much more. Darren is deeply committed to personally impacting lives. His goal is to reach and impact more than 100 million peoples’ lives each month.
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ow that you have had or you are planning your perfect wedding day it’s time to plan to live a rich, full and delicious lifestyle?
I have an experiential exercise that I have taught to thousands of people in many countries all over the planet that has profoundly impacted many couples to live a prosperous and abundant lifestyle. Here is what I would like you to do. I want you to sit down with your partner and use your creativity and imagination just like when you were a little girl or boy growing up. I want you to suspend any disbelief and thinking “how are we going to do this?” and “How will we create that?” and “Where is the money going to come from to pay for it all?” Just be like a little kid dreaming of bright and possible future.
to London, England and touring some of the old churches, museums and art galleries, Take a photo of the two of you standing in front of Big Ben, hopes on a train or a bus and going to explore the original statue of Michelangelo’s David which is located in the museum Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence, Italy. Then it’s off to hear the roar of the engines of the Monaco Grand Prix Car Race! This will definitely get your husband’s attention, feeling the power and sound of these engines. How about taking a romantic dinner boat cruise down the Nile River for a memorable evening?
How about going on an adventure to one of the most romantic Restaurants on the planet? It’s located in the beautiful Canadian Rockies. Imagine having lunch or dinner at Canada’s highest-elevation restaurant, the Eagle’s Eye towers above the Kicking Horse Resort in I want you to think and feel where would you Golden, British Columbia. Diners take the ski love to travel to on the planet and what would gondola 1,200m (3,936 ft.) up to 2,410m (7,905 you love to see, feel, hear and experience; and ft.) above sea level to reach this dining room start writing them down on paper. Map out the with a 360-degree view of the nearby Rocky, most inspiring places on the planet that you Selkirk, and Purcell mountain ranges. This could possibly go and visit. Because when you will be a “Mark the Moment” day. After lunch surround yourself with things that inspire you or dinner you can sit by the fire and read each then you will live an inspired life together. other a poem or gaze into each other’s eyes and Where would you like to go and explore across tell each other “The Gift I see in you is...” and the planet? the other person sits and How about going scuba diving listens and can only respond Deep inside or snorkeling in Australia? with “Thank you”. Exploring the Great Barrier our heart and Reef? Planning a trip to go over soul, we have a
purpose and we have dreams...
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How about planning a trip to the beautiful Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, Canada who knows you might see a killer whale or two or some beautiful birds and sea life animals? How about planning your second anniversary by going to Niagara Falls or to the top of the CN Tower in Toronto, Canada? How about going dog sledding in Canmore, Alberta Canada for an afternoon of fun, excitement and adventure? How about planning a shopping trip to New York or over to Paris for a fun weekend getaway? Think ahead and it’s now your fifth anniversary together - how about going to a Sandals Resort or a Club Med and if you have children then have them explore with you a Beaches Resort which is perfect for a family vacation. Have you ever thought about traveling to Africa and going on a African Safari together and possibly experiencing up close and in person lions, cheetahs, tigers and giraffes?
• How about attending a First Nations or Native American Sweat Lodge Ceremony or attending a traditional Pow Wow? • Have you thought about going and seeing and experiencing a live hockey, football, soccer, wrestling, golf game before. • Would you want to go on a Yoga or spiritual retreat someone or a silent mediation? Deep inside our heart and soul, we have a purpose and we have dreams, visions and callings and inspiring places we would love to visit on the planet that we would love to bring into reality. But along the journey of creating our dreams we occasionally run into mental, emotional, or physical roadblocks. These roadblocks or chaotic hindering can arise from not having our life organized in such a manner. So many people don’t plan to fail they just fail to plan.
Darren Jacklin
As you start to build your lives together it is important to have a direction of focus of where you would like to go in your lives. Remember relationships and life has its peaks and its valleys. It’s important that you create and live an inspired life together because over time if you decide to have children or already have children you want to be positive role models to your children. Let this exercise awaken you to possibility of creating and living an inspired life together. Writing or typing is the first step in making intangible ideas become tangible realities. Masters of who create inspiring lives focus on the ever-finer details. No one will build your dreams for you. Dream building is up to you. Write out where we would love to go on the planet. Clarity of vision and intensity of consistent action produces amazing results.
Kicking Horse River
Have you ever wanted to go and catch a live show on the strip in Las Vegas or attend an opera or who is your favourite singer or band? How about getting tickets and sitting up close? • How about hiking the West Coast Trail on beautiful Vancouver Island. • Have you thought about space travel with Sir Richard Brandon’s Virgin Galactic?
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EMPOWERMENT
Clara Ann Chorley
Magic and The Secret to Having (and keeping) It All Clara Ann Chorley is a successful international entrepreneur and business owner, founding Clarity Unlimited and growing it to over a six figure business in less than 14 months. Through her work across 3 continents and 34 countries, Clara has uncovered specific steps to move people through obstacles and challenges with ease, transform their failure into success, and close the gap between wanting and having. Clara’s mission is to inspire women and men globally to clarify their life’s purpose, reignite their passion, and achieve what they really want. www.ClarityUnlimited.com 1.415.592.0328 1.888.614.5089 (USA & Canada) info@ClarityUnlimited.com
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aise your hand if you’ve experienced magic say things like “It all just seemed to fall into place!” It is this energy that, when we allow it to flow, draws what in your life. Magic is when you think about that ideal job and it’s advertised in the paper we desire. the next day; and when you realize the Many of us move through life as if this magic has a person sitting in front of you is who you’re mind of its own, as if it has the power to arrive and degoing to marry. When we’re paying attention, magic is part whenever it wants. We get annoyed when it doesn’t taking place all the time. show up when we want it to. Well, the good news is that we do have some power here, and that’s pretty imporSometimes we call this luck or coincidence, karma tant! or synchronicity. But really, it’s magic and there ain’t nothin’ ‘lucky’ about it! But you have to be open to see- Remember the proposal? Remember when you first ing and feeling this magic. It’s an energy. met and sparks flew? Whenever you remember those Michelle had been single for 3 years, dating occasional- moments together, notice that you’re right back there ly but not meeting Mr. Right. When she was introduced in that energy - that energy of joy and anticipation of something really, really good. to Mark at a friend’s party she’d just spent the last few months going on multiple dates. When I asked her Two people in this energy, creating a life together what was responsible for the noticeable increase, she wow! So much is possible from there. Shared visions of laughed: “Magic! After years of not feeling truly ready the future. Two people in opposing energies - ouch! to give myself to a partner, I woke up and I was ready. Sometimes the memories alone don’t work because Everything changed after that.” It wasn’t like this just there’s resistance in the way. Little whispers tell us to happened. Michelle had been in regular coaching, was “Pay attention to that”, and we ignore them and move an avid visitor to the self-help aisle of her local bookon, hoping they’ll go away. Over time they build up and store. She’d done the inner work, the inner clean up that all of a sudden we seem to have lost our ability to acfreed up the magic energy and let it do its thing. And cess our magic mojo. ta-daaa! She started to manifest dates! Shortly after Any time you can’t get back into the flow of magic, start that, Michelle met Mark. Coincidence? I think not. to explore what you’re resisting. What do you need to What’s at work here? Well, here’s the short-hand verface inside yourself? It can be hard to dream together sion: When we’re in this energetic flow, magic happens. of the perfect home when there are financial stressors. It’s a feeling of connection, often to something bigger Face them because the desire for the experience of than ourselves. It’s joyful, open and delivers our heart’s that home will persist, like a small child tugging on desires to us. And if there’s a block or resistance within your sleeve.That tugging is your soul. Reminding you us to that energy, we have to be willing to go inside who you are and what you want. It’s committed to your ourselves and get real with what we find. It’s a two-way happiness, and a vital part of your happiness is your relationship. connection to the energy of magic. There are times when we’re just in the flow of magic. I challenge and coax you to keep noticing when you’re Love is a fabulous example of flow. It opens our hearts, in flow and if you notice you’re not, explore what might highlights what’s perfect and beautiful in the world as be in the way. Be as committed to yourself and your well as in the person in front of us. From that energetic desires and visions, as you are to your new partner in space, we experience ease, grace and joy in our lives. life and that relationship dance. Claim your magic - you Those are the times when we create decide when to be in the flow. It’s the whatever it is that we want - people ...it’s magic and secret to having (and keeping) it all.
there ain’t nothin’ ‘lucky’ about it!
EMPOWERMENT
Wayne Lee
Self Talk for Success
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of the new thought), positive (focus on what you want instead of what you don’t), personal (focus on yourself and use “I am” statements instead of focusing on others), and present (always state the desired result as an accomplished fact now). Example: If someone wants to be more confident, then their effective and powerful affirmation could be, “I am calm, confident and have a cheerful state of mind” instead of “One day, I hope to be confident.” Have fun creating your affirmations by using alliterations… I am harmoniously happy and healthy. Alliterations hook your mind into remembering them more easily. Here are a few simple affirmations that I use: • I AM Wonderful, Wealthy and Wise. • I AM Strong, Successful and Sensational. 3. Start using your affirmation with the RAP Method: Repetition: Repeat your affirmation often; when you get up, throughout the day, and before you go to bed. Set a specific goal of how many times you will repeat your affirmation. At anytime you revert back to your negative self-talk, repeat your affirmation. Authority: Say your affirmation with authority and conviction. The more you believe in it, the greater the change will be. If you find this a challenge, act as if the change you want has already occurred. Peace: Take a deep breath in and out, clear your mind, and then say your affirmation. Having a clear and peaceful mind with little resistance will be more effective in programming your subconscious mind. My challenge to you is to create three powerful affirmations that you use on a daily basis for the next 21 The following is a guide to create effective and days. Once you have done this, notice the new feelings powerful affirmations: and behaviors that arise from yourself. 1. Identify a negative belief or self-talk that you would Everything starts in the mind and your speech reflects like to replace (such as “I am shy/insecure”) your thoughts and beliefs. All the magic you possess is 2. Write down a new affirmation that based on your word. You can either live is passionate (it should excite your People are using your life by chance or choose to spell imagination to produce an image out the life you want. affirmations
he basis of any good and healthy relationship is how you feel about yourself, which is largely determined by what you are saying to yourself each and every day. Is what you are saying to yourself building your self-confidence and esteem or hindering it? Whether your are at home, work or by yourself you are continually processing information as well as talking to yourself. What you say to yourself on a daily basis will determine how you feel and how you perform. Research has shown that most people have approximately 60,000 thoughts per day. What is interesting is that most of these are negative. Most people’s thoughts have been greatly influenced by their past programming. In order for people to achieve better results, they must replace their negative thoughts and beliefs with powerful, positive and productive ones that move them in the direction they want to go. A powerful way to help you achieve magical results is through the use of effective affirmations. The word affirmation comes from the Latin word affirmae, meaning “to testify to the truth of a thing,” “to assert a fact,” or “to make something firm, solid, hard, real.” To declare a truth is to make it a fact in your life. Most people are using affirmations every day; however they are affirming negative beliefs about themselves. Thoughts and speech have the power to heal, sicken, make you wealthy, poor, happy or sad. Whether you are speaking silently or out loud, you are attracting whatever is conveyed. Why not put great words of power into your thoughts and speech to produce good feelings, to attract more of what you want.
everyday...
Wayne Lee Mental Programming Expert Visit speaker, author, hypnotist Wayne Lee at www.waynelee.com for information on his empowering motivational presentation or his energizing and comedic hypnosis show.
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Candace Loewen Smith
Love, Luck and the List
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ow do you know if this perfect person before you today will be there 25 years from now? They look good and drive a nice car. Life would be so simple if we could just check off the list clutched in our manicured hands and be guaranteed the perfect spouse...but life is not like that.
Their first real date was an unconventional one - a late breakfast at the Terrace Inn. As Steve got out the car he realized he wasn’t dressed appropriately. Being a resourceful man of action, he slipped behind the car door, out of his soccer shorts and into a pair of pants...right in the parking lot. “If we could get past that we could do anything!” Janet laughs. This first date would a stepping stone into many more.
So often couples seem to ‘wing it’ when it comes to selecting the person they spend the rest of their life Dating should be a time of exploration, a time to with. If fact, many spend more time planning their really get to know the other person on a deeper level wedding than asking all the important questions. other than just the entertainment factor. Let’s face This was not the case for Janice Sarich. In her it; life isn’t always easy and not always fun. Each own way she had a list; she knew a good marriage date brought new information as they continued needed a solid foundation, to learn about each for her that consisted of other’s interests and Communication, Respect, core values. They Family, Goals and a lot of discussed their cultural Tenacity. differences; Janice is Janice Sarich, MLA for Ukrainian and Steve’s Edmonton-Decore & Croatian. It wasn’t an Parliamentary Assistant to issue but it could have the Minister of Education, been. This was just one is married to Steve and of the many serious will celebrate their 25th subjects they would wedding anniversary broach while dating. in 2011. Her eyes light They discussed the up when she speaks of importance of their their first meeting in the religious beliefs, money wedding party of mutual management, their friends: she a bridesmaid commitment to each Steve and Janice Sarich and him a groomsman. “It other and having a was like a Cinderella story.” family. she says. After the initial They attended each other’s family meeting Janice and a girlfriend The first date gatherings. “I remember meeting would often watch Steve play soccer. his huge family for the first time on would be He watched her and she watched Thanksgiving, their arms were opened a stepping him.
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stone into many more.
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wide, everyone hugging me and it was just so overwhelming. My family was just as thrilled to meet Steve.” Janice clearly knew what she wanted in a husband. She felt Steve had qualities well beyond her expectations. Her eyes mist as she recalled their many conversations, “Family was the core with him; he had a strong conviction about togetherness.” Over a year later, while parked in front of her parent’s house, they were discussing the future of their relationship and how they wanted to be together. Stating the obvious, Janice said, “Well...we both see this great future so we might as well get married. And he agreed!” Then Steve said, “Well...will you marry me?” We woke my parents up and gave them the wonderful news.” Up to this point everything was just theory, now the real world... Married for two years, their daughter was born in 1988, Janice was unemployed due to budget cuts and Steve changed his career as a heavy duty mechanic to a Mechanical Engineering student at the U of A. Now they were newly married, with a new baby, part time income and an extremely colicky baby. “We survived on very little sleep. It was especially hard on Steve as a student and a father who would be at university studying from 7 am until 1 am. As a woman, there were a lot of overwhelming times but our strong belief in each other pulled us through.” These bitter sweet memories brought Janice to tears as she reminisced. “If
you can do all of that and still remain together...well, we came out even stronger.” After rent, utilities and groceries their bank account was often at a zero balance. These were times of sacrifice. With an already tight budget and stretched nerves, frustration was high but it only served to draw them together. They laughed and loved; cried and talked...they always talked and still do. They had each other’s back and the strong support of both families who always came through; with a loan or babysitting overnight so the exhausted couple could sleep. That’s Family. With Steve in university, both working part time, Janice went back to get her Masters while pregnant with their son. In spite of the gruelling pressures Janice and Steve ‘stayed the course’. They scheduled and shared responsibilities from kids to money all while continuing to respect the effort contributed by each other. They still made time for fun with friends and family. “We had no resentments because we knew it would work. Somehow you make it work because it’s for our future. As a couple we appreciated the value of education for our family’s future and to have choices... we often joked that people thought we were nuts.” That is Communication, Goals and Tenacity. Now 25 years later with Janice in politics, Steve now finishing an MBA and kids at home, they still maintain a hectic schedule and
Candace Loewen Smith
Sundays are still reserved for family. They continue to discuss and support each other’s interests. That’s Respect. Throughout the years of marriage shared by Janice and Steve many things have changed. Careers have been established, finances are good, and the children are now young adults. But what was established in the beginning remains the same today: the importance of Family, Goals, Communication and mutual Respect. When asked “Why do you love him?” Her eyes welled up with tears and her voice dropped to a whisper as she replied, “We were meant to be together. He’s my ‘everything’... he’s my soul mate.”
“I, with a deeper instinct, choose a man who compels my strength, who makes enormous demands on me, who does not doubt my courage, or my toughness, who does not believe me naïve or innocent, who has the courage to treat me like a woman.” ~Anaïs Nin
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EMPOWERMENT
Dr. Brenda Wade
Learn to love and grow your marriage Dr. Brenda Wade regularly appears on CNN and NBC’s Today Show as a psychology expert along with appearing on Oprah and Good Morning America, she hosted both the nationally syndicated Can This Marriage Be Saved? and Power Choices. A regular contributor to Essence magazine and other major publications, she also hosts Black Renaissance on the CW network. Dr. Brenda facilitates exciting breakthrough retreats around the world and guides the international Power Coaches Program. She is also a published author of four books.
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ou are about to become husband and wife. Marriage is one of the best personal investments of your life. Research shows that married people enjoy greater levels of health, wealth and happiness. Now I’m going to help you protect your vital investment. Like anything else in life, it takes skills and education to be a successful wife or a husband. Would you like to learn how to create a marriage that grows, pays huge rewards, and lasts a lifetime?
prevent conflicts, and keep energy high and hot? In communicating about “touchy issues” or when you are upset, start with a soft open (i.e. I love you and I’m so glad we can talk things out), proceed to talk about how you feel with ‘I’ messages. Avoid ‘You’ messages, which tend to be blaming. You might say, “I feel sad or hurt”. Then make a request such as, “would you mind helping me take out the trash?” Close softly by reaffirming your love and faith.
In the next five minutes, you will read secrets that normally take up to three months of coaching to teach my clients (and what I’ve spend the past 25 years teaching in person and on television).
1. Create a plan for your life together, set your intentions physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. How do you want it to look and feel in those four areas?
The first thing couples in trouble say to me when they sit down in my office is, “we’ve grown apart.” But I want you to know it is possible to grow together. In fact, couples who get qualified premarital coaching have 2/3 fewer divorces. Here are the four secrets to growing your love over a lifetime: Insight, Skill, Action and Practice.
2. Write it down and create action steps to achieve those goals.
Insight – what do you believe about the most impactful aspects of your marriage – money, sex, and power? We all form beliefs about life when we are children that then become hardwired patterns in our brains. The good news is that the brain is a programmable tool; you can change your beliefs. Follow these three simple steps. 1. Write down what you learned about the three important areas – money, sex and power -- as well as what you believe about women, men and relationships. Hint: what was your parents’ marriage like? What are their beliefs? Take a look at your life; do you see patterns you’ve been repeating? Nobody’s bad or good; we are just products of what we learn.
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Action – these actions are marriage insurance:
3. Get support. None of us can achieve our dreams alone Practice – You know practice makes perfect. The same goes with your marriage. Every day you should take time to share and connect with your partner. Make it a point to take a class and regularly read books to grow your marriage, money and parenting skills. This is why I created the annual Love, Money & Seva Summit – to help couples grow together. The more you grow together, the more energy you replenish in yourself and the more love you will experience as a couple. Being of service to one another, family, friends and community is strong glue for a fulfilling marriage.
Dr. Brenda founded of the Love, Money & Seva Summit which takes place every Labor Day weekend and the Power Coaches Program which provides holistic breakthrough coaching services internationally. Power Coaches use 2. Take your old beliefs and change them to positive unique techniques to create immediate and beliefs you want to see in your marriage. lasting behavior change and help their clients to 3. Talk these over with your mate to build lead awake and powerful lives. Visit It is possible her at www.docwade.com or www. understanding and support to make these changes. to grow loveandmoneysummit.com Skill – do you know how to talk things out, together...
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Kim Switnicky
Have a Juicy, Passionate and Loving Marriage that Lasts
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hat does great sex do for your marriage, your partner, you and your life? It helps cement the bond the two of you created together. Tremendous passion for each other helps reduce stress, improves your mood and can get you through bumpy patches.
Unfortunately, we women often start with a negative balance in our pleasure bank. First, we have inherited the legacy of generations of negative sexual ideas and messages from our mothers, grandmothers and great grandmothers. We grow up with double standards about sexual behaviour (stud vs. slut). Add in possible not-so-pleasant early experiences, media messages of unattainable looks and mixed messages of what ‘sexy’ really is and it becomes nearly impossible to have a healthy, positive outlook on sex. Great news! Here’s four ways to top up your pleasure account. • Discover your Sexual Truths. Yours. Not what TV, media, neighbours, friends, or anyone else thinks is right – what works for you. Figure out what you want. What are your specific turn-ons and -offs? Very few women get crystal clear about these. Consider everything that revs your motor and what stalls it. Have fun considering the sights, sounds, scents, textures, flavours, locations or anything else that comes to mind. Sensual is ‘of the senses’ so incorporate them all.
to adore yourself naked! • Realize that no-one can give you an orgasm or any other pleasure. You must let go and allow it to happen. Too many women give their lovers credit (or blame) when actually all those magical experiences you’ve had were allowed by you! Take credit for your own satisfaction. • Don’t expect your husband to read your mind or know ‘instinctively’ what you want! Open up and practice communicating your intimate needs and wants. He’ll cherish you for it. He wants to please you; if only you let him know how... Speaking of sharing your innermost desires, here are some quick tips since your mother likely didn’t sit you down and say “Here’s how to discuss sex with your husband”.
Kim Switnicki is a Sex & Intimacy Coach with over 25 years experience speaking with women and couples about sex and sexuality
Kim’s passion is to help women who want to explore their sensual selves. She helps them discover what they truly want AND how to get it. For more information visit www.kimswitnicki. com
Communication Tips • Set an intention before you begin • Prepare ahead of time. You may even want to practice what you’ll say. • ASK when would be a good time to chat • Don’t say “We need to talk” – it’s really just you who needs to talk • Don’t discuss sex in bed – pick a neutral location • Don’t make assumptions – always check them • Relax! For more ways to communicate about sex, pick up a copy of my award-winning book, the G-Spot PlayGuide: 7 Simple Steps to G-Spot Heaven! Two chapters are devoted to this crucial and often ignored subject.
• Enjoy at least three 20 minute baths a week. It’s vital, especially after having children, to take quiet time for ourselves in a sensual way (candles, oils, treats) and admire our bodies by taking pleasure in Practice makes it every inch of our luscious selves. easier and easier Practice makes it easier and easier
to adore yourself naked!
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EMPOWERMENT
Magdalen Bowyer
A Dream of One’s Own Magdalen Bowyer MA, RPC, CEC is a Narrative Therapist & Creativity Coach who knows we make the world with the stories we tell. Her work helps people create lifeaffirming stories about themselves so they are empowered to re-shape the landscape of their living. These stories are not fantasies; they are real facets of identity, different versions of who we are. She works with women and men around the world while she enjoys a vibrant practice at Cross Roads Clinics in Vancouver, BC. She is currently writing an autoethnography titled ‘Grief & Desire: lies I’ve lived by’. She resides in Surrey, BC, with her husband and sons.
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I
t was almost 3 o’clock and the sun had broken through for the occasion. A perfect day for marrying the man of my dreams. Everyone in the cabin was dressed and ready. I turned to see my father examining me. “Do you really want to go through with this?” he asked. The question was completely unexpected and surprising. But even more surprising was an errant voice in my head that wanted to reply, “Actually, Dad, I’ve changed my mind. It’s been fun, but let’s get outta here!” That voice shocked me but was quickly suppressed. This was not the time for a dramatic change of heart. “Yes, Dad, I’m ready,” I said, smiling. T hat was many years ago. A marriage to my dream guy. We intended to grow old together and had he lived, we’d be celebrating our 30th anniversary this summer. But he died in a car accident a month short of our fourth anniversary.
feminine power. Yet it is this vital connection that determines our wellness, which is the foundation upon which we build our relationships and our lives. And at the heart of this vital connection is learning how to develop a level of self-responsibility.
That was many years ago. We intended to grow old together and had he lived, we’d be celebrating our 30th anniversary this summer. But he died in a car accident a month short of our fourth anniversary.
False notions of love teach us that when we find it in another person we’ll be in constant bliss. The larger narratives in my life had led me to believe that when the right man found me, I would be relieved of the worries of day-to-day maintenance. Then I would be free to turn my attention to my intellectual and artistic abilities. The relief I felt on my first wedding day was momentarily overshadowed by the question my father asked me because that question hinted at something, a longing I was suppressing. I wanted to be independent and free. But it was a longing I quelled. I let myself be pulled into marriage before I had fully claimed myself because I feared that without a man, I’d be isolated and insecure.
His death marked a turning point in my life and set me on a trajectory I could never have imagined. This is what I know: I’ve had a lifetime of learning in relationships and every goodbye has stretched me into the woman I’ve become. Relationships are deeply connected to our wellness as women. Some of us will learn to transform and sustain one relationship over a lifetime. Others will learn through more than one relationship, more than one marriage. If a marriage ends, it doesn’t spell failure. It may even be a kind of success. You’d probably rather not hear this now, but I feel it’s essential you understand that you are about to test and challenge all that you’ve been taught about love, relationship and marriage. In the process, you will face what it means for you, who you think you are and who you want to be. In my own life I’ve learned that women haven’t had the mentors we need to connect with our own
A year before my first marriage, I graduated from high school and was chosen by my classmates to give the valedictory speech. When I read that speech now, I’m curious about the certainty I held about my life’s purpose. The basic plot of my life was to have love find me and then I could rest, knowing I would be cared for. It was a fantasy of passivity. My journey would end and begin at the altar. But that was not to be. Little did I know then I would be challenged over and over again to rewrite the script of my life until I became aware of a crucial fact: I would have to be the author of my own story. And until I was, love would never find me for long.
Where did this misapprehension come from? From the family and the society in which I was raised. It’s a loving culture, but it’s a very masculine one, oriented around the woman as caregiver, and the man as provider, decision-maker and usually, the focus of attention. The woman is expected to be nurturing, self-less and ready to serve.
The practice of love takes time.
It’s helpful to see the context of our own social conditioning. We can then understand where we’ve come from and
choose where we want to be. At the age of 38, after three marriages and finding myself the mother of two sons, I realized I could no longer place pleasing others above my own self-development. I had to take a stand. And here’s the great irony: I now know that in doing so, in caring for myself, I was actually stepping into my capacity to care for the whole world. The practice of love takes time. That’s a challenge in our society as we are supported and trained in the distracting process of accumulation, which tells us if we get all the right things (partner, lifestyle, etc.) we’ll be happy. In contrast, love as a process starts with oneself. It demands we ask ourselves big questions about who we are, what we want, and what we have to contribute. Aristotle had a wonderful word for destiny. He called it entelechy, the magnetic force that draws us into our life’s purpose. More often than not, females are taught how to give the basic care that is part of the practice of love: how to show empathy and how to listen. Not often enough are we taught to be honest with ourselves about our deepest passions. Listening is more than hearing others; listening is also hearing our inner voice. As a young woman, I didn’t know how to distinguish my passion for the love of a man from my own life’s potential. I didn’t know how to follow and trust my enthusiasm. Yet whenever a marriage ended, I would decide to go back to school in some way. I see now that this hunger for scholarship was the way I deepened my relationship to myself. I was committed to understanding my
entelechy. But I can’t help thinking the process would have been less painful had I listened to the voice of my soul at an earlier age. The path to love is about embracing ourselves before we embrace someone else. We’re not taught this as females. As children, we’re taught to find our first love in the ‘other’. As a consequence, if we should not find this ideal relationship outside of ourselves, we may be hopelessly distracted from creating a flourishing life. In a way, we lose the roadmap to the self. And our most basic self is love. Love is the work of the world. As Dr. Humberto Maturana teaches, it expands intelligence and empowers creativity. He writes, “love returns autonomy and, as it returns autonomy, it returns responsibility and the experience of freedom.” I liberated myself when I faced the disparity between what I desired and what I was choosing. “Passion doesn’t fade. It must be suppressed,” says Deepak Chopra. “We are enticed back into passion when we admit to having desires.”
foundation on which we build the house of our dreams.” “It’s a house with many rooms,” she says. “Relationships are part of the house, but they are not everything and never could be.” Love is a force as real as gravity. And it leads us into the awareness that we are the source of all that we long for - we have the power to foster limitless creativity. This is the time for us to stand with and for each other. We’re all learners. And the learning begins in relationship to ourselves. For without self-love, we are not yet ready to know the love of others.
To learn more about Magdalen and what she offers, visit her website www. CrucibleCommunication.com
Bell Hooks teaches that the female search for love is what life should be all about because demanding the ‘other’ be our ‘everything’ is a faulty assertion. Love is everything. And she defines love as “the
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Let’s Talk Turkey Tips
Making your first turkey dinner doesn’t have to be terrifying. By being prepared and following these easy steps, you can be sure to please everyone! Make sure your turkey is fresh, or if it is frozen, completely defrosted. Remove the neck and organs from inside the turkey (they are already separated, this is a really simple process). Wash the turkey in cold water, never warm as this can start to cook the bird. Check the size of the roasting pan you want to use - it should have a lid and the turkey should fit comfortably inside! Before you place the turkey in the roaster, put some olive oil in the bottom of it. Put your bird into the roaster and at this point you can stuff the turkey. Some people like to close the turkey after it is stuffed, some prefer to leave it open. This is entirely a personal preference. Put salt, pepper, and a small amount of granulated garlic on the turkey. Baste the turkey hourly (you can use melted butter if you like, or just the juices from the pan).You can also add any personal spices you like such as poulty seasoning, sage or thyme for example. Your turkey should cook for about 15 minutes per pound in a 350 degree oven. Be sure to let your bird rest after you pull it out of the oven before it is carved. Save the juices from the bottom of the pan to make gravy. Simply combine some flour and water with the juices and bring to a slow boil over medium heat or try our awesome Mushroom Gravy recipe. For thicker gravy, add more flour. Don’t forget to taste test!
Effortless Entertaining
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hanksgiving, Christmas… you are the newlyweds and have now been elected by the family to do the next holiday dinner. You can still sail into preparing a family feast with ease if you organize your menu and ingredients beforehand.
With both members of your family working, you need to keep this meal as effortless as possible but still come up with a traditional family fare in a polished and simple manner. This is not as hard as it sounds! With a little effort and organization, you’ll pull this off and impress both your new and your existing family.
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Dressing (or stuffing!) Here’s a fast fixing tip: for convenience, cook the bacon, onion and celery mixture for the stuffing, perogies and brussel sprouts in one frying pan to save on time and cleanup. • 4 slices diced bacon • 2 cups diced onion • 1 cup diced celery • 10-12 slices bread (cubed) • 3 eggs • 1/2 cup melted butter • 2 tbsp. olive oil • 1 tbsp. poultry seasoning • 1 1/2 tsp. salt • 1 1/2 tsp. Pepper Fry bacon, onions, and celery until golden in olive oil. Then add the bread, eggs, butter, and poultry seasoning. Mis together well, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stuff inside your turkey and place into the oven. Use a large serving spoon to remove the cooked dressing from the bird.
Brussels Sprouts
For convenience, use frozen brussel sprouts as they are cut. If you are using fresh brussel sprouts, place them into a cool bath and peel any brown leaves off. Cut the bottom from the sprouts and place a small ‘X’ into the core - this allows for more even cooking. Boil the brussel sprouts until done and add one cup of the bacon, celery, and onion mixture.
Perogies in Golden Cheddar Mushroom Sauce
• 2 cans cheddar cheese soup • 2 cans golden mushroom soup • 2 cans chicken broth • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese • 1 cup of the bacon, celery, onion mixture • 2 pkg. Perogies • salt and pepper to taste
Put all ingredients except the perogies into a Dutch Oven or large covered casserole dish, and mix well. Then add your perogies, ensuring they are completely covered by liquid. Bake at 325 degress for about 3 hours. Serve with sour cream, bacon bits, chives and any other toppings you want! Mushroom Gravy For this divine gravy, start with the drippings left in the roasting pan after removing the turkey. Add two cups of sliced button mushrooms (fresh is best!). Cook until the mushrooms are done - these don’t take long. In a separate bowl, mix one cup of cold water and two tablespoons of flour. Use a whisk to ensure there are no lumps. Add the flour mixture to the muchrooms and cook for approximately five minutes over medium heat, stirring constantly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Timetable 2 weeks before: • Order a fresh turkey • Make a shopping list • Order flowers 1 week before: • Make and freeze your dessert (or ask one of your relatives to bring dessert) 1 day before: • Shop for your groceries • Set the table and decide what serving platters you will use • Dice the onions and celery and put into Ziplock bags • Remove your dessert from the freezer and allow to thaw out
5 hours before: • Fry onions, celery and bacon • Preheat the oven • Make the dressing for turkey • Stuff the turkey 4 hours before: • Put the turkey in the oven (depending on the size of your turkey, this might need to happen sooner) • Put together appetizers 3 hours before: • Peel the potatoes, put into a pot with cold water and some salt • Baste the turkey • Put the perogies on to cook 2 hours before: • Make the salad and dressing • Turn on the potatoes • Baste the turkey 1 hour before: • Put out the appetizer tray • Baste the turkey – if it is not brown enough, take the lid off and if it too brown, cover it with foil 45 minutes before: • Cook the brussel sprouts • Cook the corn 30 minutes before: • Take the turkey out and put it on a platter • Make the gravy
Pumpkin Banana Cake
This fabulous cake is a great alternative (or in addition to) the traditional pumpkin pie: • 1 yellow cake mix • 1 cup canned pumpkin • 2 bananas • 1/2 cup sour cream • 1 tsp. nutmeg • 1/2 tsp. Cinnamon Put the cake mix in your bowl or mix master, add the oil and eggs as per instructions (do not add any water or milk). Add the pumpkin, bananas, and sour cream, mix until smooth. Add nutmeg and cinnamon, mix well and place into pan. Cook the cake as per the instructions on the box. Remove from oven, let cool, then remove cake from the pan. Cover the cake completely and put into the freezer. Serve with whipping cream.
Whipped Cream
• Whip a small container of whipping cream • Add 2 tbsp. brown sugar • 1 tsp. Vanilla Mix all ingredients together with a hand-mixer until the whipping cream is stiff and chill for 1/2 hour before serving.
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Derks Kids Collection Black or White Tuxedo Retail Packages
Available from size 6 months to boys size 14. Includes jacket, pants, vest, shirt and bowtie. Also available in a pinstripe or chocolate suit.
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Get Ready To Smile! Your wedding day is one day you should be able to relax and let all those months of planning just happen. To help your photographer out (and make sure you get exactly want you want!), draft a “Must Shots” list. Some of these shots might be: Bride: • Alone: close up and full length • With parents • With the maid of honour • With the flowergirl/ringbearer • With the maid of honour & bridesmaids • With the groomsmen • Tossing the bouquet Groom: • Alone: close up and full length • With parents • With the best man • With the flowergirl/ringbearer • With the best man & groomsmen • Waiting for the bride right before the ceremony • With the maid of honour and bridesmaids • Removing and tossing the garter Couple: • Lighting the unity candle • Cutting the cake • Exchanging rings • Dancing • Kissing Wedding Party: • With bride • With groom • With both bride and groom • Dancing Miscellaneous: • Bride/groom getting ready • Ushers seating guests • Wedding cake • Reception photos (guests eating, dancing, etc) • Guests waving goodbye These are just some of the ideas for your wedding. Make sure the list you make has all the shots you “absolutely must have”. Your photographer should also have some great suggestions that you might not have thought of, so be sure to ask. Smile!
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Andras Schram Photography
PICTURE Chantal Milaine Photography
Bella Photography Fox Creative Photography
lori alvarez Photography
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CRJ Photography
PERFECT Instant Memories
Atelier Luu Photography fotojenick’z Photography
Briarwood Photography
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EXTRAS Photography
The Boudoir Bride Imagine your fiancé’s reaction when he receives this one-of-a-kind gift; beautiful portraits of the woman he loves and is about to marry expressing her sensual side in sexy lingerie. A boudoir album is the ultimate – for his eyes only – wedding gift.
B
oudoir Photography refers to beautiful images of a woman, most often wearing her favorite lingerie. A boudoir photo shoot frees you to reveal yourself in a more intimate way. “It is an empowering experience” says Erica Tait of TAIT Photography. “My goal is to help women to discover their own beauty and to bring out their sexy side.”
make your feel comfortable. They work with lighting, camera angles and flattering poses to accentuate your best features. The final images will include retouching, which isn’t reserved just for celebrity magazine spreads. “Even though many people are nervous at first, they end up having a great time and comment that they think every woman should have this experience at least once in her life,” says Tait. “To feel and look amazing is often something that we don’t get just by looking at ourselves in the mirror.” Waring plans to give the boudoir images to her husband on their wedding night, “Fifty years from now my fiancé can look back and remember how beautiful I was! I think he will love them.” To see more of Erica’s boudoir work, check out the Bridal Fantasy Blog, http://bridalfantasy.com/blog/ post/249-boudoir-bride
The confidence boost that comes with this experience may be just what you need before your big day. You will feel assured, perhaps even sexier, when you walk down the aisle and exchange vows in front of your close friends and family. “There’s not an image I don’t like. It has been a real eye opener to realize that I do look good and can be sexy. This experience definitely helped to boost my selfconfidence,” says Amanda Waring, a recent client of TAIT Photography.
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If you’re nervous about the final images, don’t be. Professional boudoir photographers are trained to
TAIT Photography, www.taitphoto.com
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Gowns
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Bridal Debut
Bells & Bows Bridal Centre
Visit one of our fabulous salons (in either Sherwood Park or our new Edmonton location) and experience the thrill of finding your perfect wedding dress. Our wonderful consultants will give you excellent service in a friendly and comfortable setting. With designers like Maggie Sottero, Sophia Tolli, Alfred Sung and more, you’re sure to find the wedding dress you have been dreaming of.
Don’t let him take his eyes off you. Every wedding is a unique and memorable celebration of joy, love and commitment. Choose a gown that is timeless and exquisite; reflecting modern elegance with a haute couture flair. We are a Full Service Boutique that pays close attention to detail with an Emphasis on Customer Service. We Hope you will allow us the pleasure of turning your Dreams into a Reality!
Phone: 780.467.4082 Website: www.bridaldebut.com
403.238.2355 www.bellsandbowsbridalcentre.com
Hehiyla Bridal
Lustre Studio Introducing Lustre Studio, Edmonton’s chic new all-inclusive Bridal Studio. Conveniently located in West Edmonton Mall Lustre Studio carries a variety of Wedding Gowns, Bridesmaid’s, Mother of the Bride & Flower Girl dresses. Fashionable designers such as San Patrick, Allure, Alfred Sung, Claudine, Signature Plus and many more. Bringing latest styles in bridal jewelry, shoes, head pieces and accessories as well as Tuxedos and Ring Bearer suits.
Hehiyla Bridal, located in the heart of downtown Calgary, is your one stop source for gowns and dresses (bridesmaids, grads, and special occasions), jewellery, and more. Our lines include Cosmobella, Demetrios, De Vinci, Forever Yours, Gemini, Jasmine and more. Feel free to stop in and try on our newest arrivals. 403.294.1239 www.hehiyla.com
780.484.1990 www.lustrestudio.com
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Venue
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Metterra Hotel on Whyte Offering contemporary style and design, Metterra Hotel if the perfect setting for your trendy, intimate wedding. Located on Whyte Avenue, this urban-cool boutique hotel is a guaranteed to create memories stemming from the hottest location in the city. 780.465.8150 www.metterra.com
Matrix Hotel Edmonton’s newest and hottest boutique hotel is one of the most desired venues for wedding ceremonies and receptions in the city. Personalized to ensure your day is perfect, Matrix Hotel features stunning architectural beauty, combining the natural elements of fire, water and stone. 780.429.2861 www.matrixedmonton.com
Varscona Hotel on Whyte This classic boutique hotel located in the heart of Old Strathcona is an ideal spot for an intimate wedding ceremony and reception. Customized wedding and guestroom packages available. Consider Varscona Hotel for your Wedding on Whyte. 780.431.5338 www.varscona.com
Pioneer Meadows Golf Course & Banquet Facility Our facility can accommodate 50 to 250 guests and is suitable for a variety of occasions; weddings, receptions, anniversaries, tournaments, barbeques, luncheons and seminars. Our staff is dedicated to making your function stress free. 2011 780-988-8375 ext. 22 BRIDAL FANTASY www.pioneermeadows.com www.bridalfantasy.com
Boundary Ranch Boundary Ranch provides the perfect venue to host your Wedding in a spectacular mountain setting. Our Professional planner will help you make your day memorable from start to finish! Call for information on our wedding packages. www.boundaryranch.com (403)591-7171
The Palace Banquet & Conference Facility
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Devonian Gardens A beautiful outdoor setting for an unforgettable garden wedding. Ceremony and photo packages available for up to 250 guests. Photo-only packages also available. Devonian Botanic Garden, located 5 kilometres north of Devon on Hwy 60, just minutes from west Edmonton. Photo credit: Tara Johns 780.987.3054, ext. 2223 www.devonian.ualberta.ca
The Palace is the perfect place to hold your next function. We have spared no expense in creating a facility that can accommodate any type of function. Weddings, anniversaries, summer barbeques, and Christmas parties - no function is too large or small. Whatever the size, theme, or entertaining style, you can be sure that your reception will become the memory of a lifetime. (780) 468.6006 www.thepalacebanquets.com
Venue
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Century Casino
Hotel Selkirk
Located just minutes from downtown, Century Casino offers a perfect venue for all of your wedding needs. Our gorgeous One-31 Restaurant is perfect for engagement parties, rehearsal dinners and gift openings. The Yuk Yuks Comedy Club is the number one place for Stag and Stagette parties; not to mention our cozy boutique hotel suites for your romantic big night. Our staff will work personally with you to ensure your dreams come true for your magical day
Match your wishes to one of the most beautiful and unique facilities nestled in Edmonton’s picturesque river valley. Book your reception at Hotel Selkirk and receive a $180 discount in one of Fort Edmonton Park’s historic churches. (780) 495-0386 www.fortedmontonpark.ca
780 643 4000 www.centurycasinos.com
The Nisku Inn and Conference Center The Nisku Inn and Conference center is a hotel located near the Edmonton International Airport. It is a great venue choice for Edmonton, Leduc, Beaumont, Devon, and other surrounding areas. We offer various ballrooms fully equipped for weddings of any size. We offer mouth watering catering, 156 guest rooms and the luxurious Honeymoon Suite. We have two restaurants, two lounges, an indoor swimming pool, wireless internet, a fitness center, and a hair salon. 1.800.661.6966 www.niskuinn.com
Pinebrook Golf & Country Club Are you looking for the perfect wedding venue? Pinebrook Golf & Country Club is a first class catering facility that features elegant decor, picturesque views of the mountains and river valley and upscale cuisine. We can accommodate intimate groups of 30 up to 275. We invite you to come and tour our facility to see for yourself what Pinebrook has to offer for your wedding. 403-246-3311 Ext 215 www.pinebrookgolfclub.com
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Venue
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Edmonton Marriott at River Cree Resort
Country Hills Golf Club
If you’re looking for a wedding reception with some extra fun elements look no further. The Edmonton Marriott at River Cree Resort is an elegant and modern reception facility that also offers all the fun and entertainment of a Vegas-style casino. They also include several wedding extras in their packages such as valet parking, spacious guestrooms, private cocktail-hour reception areas, specialty linens, chair covers and more.
Come spend your special day with us at Country Hills Golf Club where we offer only the highest quality of food, service and ambiance with a panoramic view of both of our picturesque golf courses. www.countryhills.ab.ca 403.226.7789
780.930.2623 www.edmontonmarriott.com
Eagle’s Nest Catering
Carnmoney Golf Club
Eagle’s Nest Catering provides delicious food, personalized service, and a breathtaking venue to make all your wedding dreams come true. Located on Eagle Rock Golf Course and Leduc Golf & C.C.
The beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains at Carnmoney Golf Club will truly leave a lasting impression with all of your guests. Carnmoney offers a full buffet dining experience including customized cuisine that is sure to satisfy every appetite.
780.449.6646 www.eaglesnestcatering.ca
403.254.0241 www.carnmoney.com
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Photography
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village
Devonian Botanic Garden
Briarwood Photography
Make your special day complete with unique wedding photos at the Ukrainian Village. This award-winning living history museum offers a wide range of authentic settings, located 25 minutes east of Edmonton on Highway 16.
Wedding Photos in the Garden. Spectacular outdoor settings for your once-ina-lifetime wedding photos. Devonian Botanic Garden, located 5 kms north of Devon on Hwy 60, just minutes from west Edmonton.
Trust me...to reflect the beauty, the romance, the bond of your special day...an artistic, unique, classic glimpse of your future that you will cherish for years to come.
780.662.3640 www.ukrainianvillage.ca
403.931.1602 www.briarwoodphotography.com
780.987.3054 ext. 2223 www.devonian.ualberta.ca
fotojenick’z Photography
Chantal Milaine
Something Blue Photography
Creative, stylish and fun! At fotojenick’z Photography, we love to capture candid moments from quiet to fun and exciting but also appreciate the thoughtful details, simple family or traditional photos that make your day unforgettable.
Feel fabulous, you deserve it. Chantal Milaine specializes in photographing intimate, chic, stylized weddings.
Fun, Fresh and Fantastic! Something Blue Photography is a husband and wife team that looks to document your wedding as naturally as it happens. Let’s meet over coffee.
780.952.3775 www.fotojenickz.com
403 992 6000 www.chantalmilaine.com
403.819.3584 somethingbluephotography.ca
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Photography
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Bella Photography
CRJ Photography
Daza Photography
Did you think your friends could look this good…we did! Bella Photography traveling the world for you.
It’s your big day! CRJ Photography understands how unique and special your wedding day is. We will capture each moment and every tiny detail in a relaxed and artistic way. We would love to meet you!
Finding the right photographer is a lot like finding the right spouse, when you know, you know! Vitalia is an artist who creates visual stories of the most important chapters in people’s lives.
780.953.0202 www.bella-photography.ca
403.874.3292 www.dazaphotography.com
403.474.2727 www.CRJphoto.ca
CL Photography
Fox Creative Photography
Portray your wedding day as it is intended to be: Fashionable, Glamorous and Romantic C.L. Photography’s fun and relaxed approach makes your day as memorable as your timeless images. Your day is about you, your guests and the little moments. Call Cheryl today for a photographer who cares about you and your day. Space is limited for 2011 don’t miss out. Serving Central Alberta and Area, Travel is welcome. Packages from $1849.
Capturing the mood and moments of your love story using a freestyle approach! Nationally accredited. Mention this ad before March 15th and receive a 10% discount on all packages.
403.782.4298 www.clphotos.ca
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403-246-0216 www.foxcreativedesign.com
Photography
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Beyond Photography
Andras Schram
Be Your Own Sexy! Whether you want classic beauty, artistic nudes, or you have your own concept, Desirae is one of the most creative photographers that goes Beyond your expectations! She’s an artist turned photographer that can capture the beauty in everyone. Experience one of the sexiest female run Boudoir Studios based in Calgary, AB. Available for hotel Boudoir Marathons across Alberta.
Andras Schram, Award Winning Wedding & Portrait Photography. European High Fashion style Photojournalistic infusion. 403.829.4092 www.andrasschram.com
403.998.5230 www.beyondphotography.ca
Angel Eyes Photography
Atelier Luu Photography
Silverline Photography
lorialvarez photography
Angel Eyes Photography is a Central Alberta based photography business. Angel Eyes Photography provides quality imagery and services as well as a fun, energetic and professional environment. Please call for a consultation..
We are a husband and wife photography team based in Calgary, available for weddings Alberta-wide. If you are seeking contemporary and artistic imagery of your wedding we would love to hear from you.
Award Winning Photography Heather Jaques specializes in fine art portraiture and artistic weddings. Available for travel worldwide.
Capturing your moment in time! Call me to create a magical picture story of your special day.
403.653.3308 www.silverlinephoto.com
www.innovativephotography.ca
403.318.3430
403.909.3679 www.atelierluu.com
www.angeleyesphotography.ca
403 923 8781
2010
BRIDAL FANTASY www.bridalfantasy.com
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DJ
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Baseline Event Services Inc. Since early 2000, Baseline Services Inc. has been creating industry standards by providing clients with event services of the highest caliber. At Baseline, we believe that a booking is never just an event; it’s your event. That’s why we strive to customize and personalize every aspect of it for you. Hiring Baseline may be just the unique, edge you need to take your event to the next level. 780.483.8856 www.baselineservices.ca
Revolution DJ & Limousines Revolution DJ & Limousines specializes in elite mobile entertainment, executive transportation and shuttle services. We are industry leaders in weddings and special events and have the ability to customize packages to suit your needs. With over 750 wedding and event bookings each year, and a new fleet of high-end limousines; we’ve got what it takes to make sure your special day is just the way you envisioned it. Calgary: 403.873.1218 Edmonton: 780.416.9017 Vancouver: 604.688.4445 www.revolutiondj.com www.revolutionlimos.com
Cakes
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Whimsical Cake Studio Whimsical Cake Studio Inc. designers create stunning and original wedding cakes. Your wedding cake should be a one-of-a-kind centerpiece, personalized to reflect your style and taste. Our cake designs range from classic to modern and from whimsical to elegantly romantic. Let us create a memorable and delicious centerpiece for your wedding. We also offer custom wedding cookie favours and lavish cupcake towers.
2010 780.988.2253
BRIDAL FANTASY www.whimsicalcakestudio.com www.bridalfantasy.com
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Cake Couture Inspired and created in Europe, Cake Couture uses its French and Spanish artistic flair to bring you unique and personalized cakes and cupcakes for any special occasion. Your cake can become a real work of art. 780.443.4083 www.cakecouture-edibleart.ca
The Art of Cake Customized cake and design studio, creating individual works of art one masterpiece at a time. Reflecting on your personality, style and colors, creating your cake unique to you. Available by appointment only. 780.485.5517 www.theartofcake.ca
Grande Priarie
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Cakery Cafe
Milano For Men
Making cakes is more than just a business to me, it is a passion of mine. I work with each client to create that special cake just for them. The endless possibilities that we can create for you. Creating art with each new cake. In addition to Grande Prairie, I also serve the peace region and northern BC. Book your consult today! By appointment only please. KEEP IT SWEET!
Established in 1994, Milano for Men has been a long-standing supplier of high quality, top fashion clothing for Grande Prairie and area men. Hugo Boss, Lacoste, J. Lindeberg, Tommy Bahama, Versace, Mexx, Bugatchi, Ecco, English Laundry and Jack Lipson are just a few brand names you might find familiar at Milano. New arrivals arrive daily, so no two visits will be quite the same. Milano for men is a Derks Agent.
780.513.0222 www.cakerycafe.com
780-532-2550 (2551) www.milanoformen.ca
Health & Beauty
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
BraTopia ‘Unique Styles in Unique Sizes’ for sashaying your gorgeous gown down the aisle, strutting your stuff on the dance floor, and soaking up the sun on your honeymoon - let us be the ‘foundation’. www.bratopia.ca 403-457-1303
Pure Orthodontics Teeth straightening and whitening special geared towards brides and grooms. When your big day arrives, you want to be able to smile with confidence. Make sure that a great smile is the top of your wedding list! www.pureorthodontics.ca 780-800-0402
First Step Fitness Calgary’s premiere health and Wanting to look great and feel fitness company, First Step relaxed on your wedding day? Take a moment to indulge in hav- specializes in mobile personal training and private boot ing your makeup done by a procamps. Come alone or grab fessional. Make your wedding a some friends and join us to get memory that will last forever. in the best shape of your life. 403.909.3282 403.463.2908 2010 kristina.wood4@gmail.com BRIDAL FANTASY www.firststepfitness.ca www.bridalfantasy.com Makeup Artistry By Kristina Woods
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Additional Services
BR I DA L FA N TA S Y DI R ECTORY
Calyx Floral Design At Calyx Floral Design, our custom wedding flowers cater to your personal style. Whether your wedding is modern, formal, or casual our designs will go beyond your expectations. We have the knowledge and expertise to turn your floral dreams into reality. 403.352.4055 www.calyxfloraldesign.ca
ADVERTISER LISTING
Décor / Rentals / Wedding Planning (It’s All In The) Details (CGY & EDM)..........................93, 107 At First Sight Chair Rental Covers (EDM).......................... 39 Atmosphere Wedding Planning & Design (EDM)......... 89 Awespiring Weddings (EDM)..................................................... 95 Bubbles & Beaus Event Planning (CGY)............................. 111 Chair Flair (CGY)................................................................................ 39 Elegant Event Decorating.............................................................. 96 Final Touch Rentals Ltd. (EDM)................................................. 89 Grand Designs (CGY & EDM).....................................................22 ID Bohemia (EDM)............................................................................ 33 Lustre Studio Inc. (EDM)................................................................ 94 Onewest Events Inc. (CGY).......................................................... 36 QSD Rentals/Quality Stage Drapery Inc. (EDM)............14 Special Event Rentals (EDM)....................................................... 95 Special Event Rentals (CGY).....................................................109 Special Event Rentals (CGY & EDM)......................................90 Photography Andras Schram Photography (CGY).......................................27 Atelier Luu Photography (CGY)..............................................106 Boudoir Portraits by TAIT Photography (CGY).... 64, 108 Chantal Milaine Photography (CGY)..................................... 29 2011 BRIDAL FANTASY Flashworks Photobooth (EDM)...................................................97 www.bridalfantasy.com Fox Creative Design (CGY)........................................................104
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Elegant Event Rentals Elegant Event Rentals is your local wedding and special occasion centre. There’s no need to travel to the big city to get what you need for your special day. 780.386.2440 www.eleganteventrentals.ca
Calgary & Edmonton Grant Olsen Photography........................................................... 168 Instant Memories (EDM)................................................................32 McMaster Photographs (EDM)...................................................87 Silverline Photography (CGY).....................................................12 Something Blue Photography (CGY)...................................205 Studio Four Twelve (EDM)............................................................ 92 Flowers & Florist Services Avenida Growers Direct (CGY)................................................108 Flower Fusion (CGY)...................................................................... 107 Kuhlmann’s Floral Boutique (EDM)........................................ 99 La Piazza Dassee (EDM).................................................................. 71 Studio Bloom (EDM)..........................................................................97 The Wild Orchid Flower Shop (EDM)................................... 89 Venue/Hotel Bayshore Inn (Waterton Park).................................................... 80 Celtic Hall (EDM)............................................................................... 40 Century Casino (EDM).....................................................................28 Century Hospitality Group (EDM).......................................... 20 Hotel Selkirk at Fort Edmonton Park (EDM)..................... 92 Mount Norquay (BANFF).............................................................. 80 Riverboat Inc. (EDM)......................................................................222 The Fairmont Banff Springs (CGY)............................................6 The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (CGY)............................ 8
The Matrix............................................................................................... 30 The Melting Pot (EDM)................................................................... 94 Union Bank Inn (EDM)................................................................... 88 Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort (CGY)................................... 221 Travel AMA Travel (EDM)......................................................................72, 73 Farlie Travel (EDM)............................................................................10 Getting Married in Europe Travel.............................................77 Newwest Travel (EDM)....................................................................81 Travel Counsellors (CGY)...............................................................79 Uniglobe Geo Travel (EDM).....................................................IBC Bridal Attire Beautiful Bride (CGY)...................................................................... 26 Bells & Bows Bridal Centre (CGY)..........................................224 Bridal Boutique, The (EDM)......................................................... 93 Bridal Debut (Sherwood Park)...................................................147 Frocks Modern Bridesmaids (CGY......................................... 111 Ladybird Bridal Designs (EDM)................................................ 84 The Lily Pad Inc. (CGY)................................................................ 146 Tifany’s Bridal (EDM)....................................................................... 56 Wedding World Bridal (EDM)....................................................... 7 Cakes, Confections, & Favors Cake Couture (EDM)........................................................................ 89 Dandee Confections& Cakes (EDM)........................................91 Hey Cupcake Bakery Inc. (EDM).............................................. 96 Jewelry Bridal Fantasy Jewelry (CGY & EDM)....................................54 Gemoro Goldsmith (EDM)................................................................1 Swedish Jewellers (EDM).............................................................. 50 Beauty, Health, Hair & Make-up Flirt Lashes (EDM)............................................................................. 92 Millbourne Electrolysis (EDM)................................................... 84 Modern Urban Designers Hair & Body Studio (EDM).....222 Simply for Life (EDM).......................................................................61 Music & Entertainment Always Alexis Marie (EDM)..........................................................77 Dance! Shout! Productions (CGY)............................................ 40 Deluxe DJ Services (CGY)...........................................................110 Estelle music (CGY)........................................................................109 Jukebox Divas (EDM)...................................................................... 88 The Trinity Projekt (EDM).............................................................91 Menswear & Formals Derks Formals (CGY & EDM).....................................................157 Derks Menswear (CGY & EDM).............................................. 209 Dion (CGY & EDM).......................................................................... 156 J. Lindeberg (CGY & EDM)............................................................21 Lanza......................................................................................................... 154 SAND (CGY & EDM)...................................................................... 155 Scottish Imports (EDM).................................................................. 98 Strellson (CGY & EDM)................................................................. 2, 3 Stenstroms............................................................................................. 154 Bridal Shows & Wedding Essentials Bridal Conference (EDM).............................................................210 Bridal Fantasy (CGY & EDM)...................................................... 68 Bridal Fantasy Sweepstakes.......................................................... 66 Bridal Showcase Welcome Wagon.........................................100 Wedding Planner.................................................................................. 11 Gift Registry, House & Home HBC National Gift Registry (CGY & EDM)...........................4 Michelle Derk........................................................................................ 34
Stationary iBride Invitations (EDM).................................................................22 Miscellaneous Alberta Ballet (CGY & EDM)........................................................18 Canadian Cancer Society/DSA Baron (CGY)................... 24 Global (CGY)........................................................................................101 Global (EDM).........................................................................................55 Little Warriors (CGY & EDM).................................................... 158 Missing Piece Coaching Inc. (CGY).......................................110 Mountain Madness Tours (EDM)............................................. 98 The Cleanery (EDM)..........................................................................23 Womens Clothing & Lingerie C’est Sera (EDM)...........................................................................31, 67 My Filosophy (EDM)........................................................................ 84 Night Owl Imports (EDM)............................................................ 62 Sheer Fusion (CGY)........................................................................... 64 Limousine & Transportation Eternity Limousines Ltd. (EDM)...............................................115 Executive 4Star Limo (CGY)......................................................105 Prestige Limousines (EDM)............................................................ 5 Revolution Entertainment DJ & Limo Service (EDM)....9 Volvo (EDM)............................................................................................25 Self Help Chopra.....................................................................................................160 Gail Vax Oxlade.................................................................................190 Get A Life............................................................................................... 188
Book Your Waterton Wedding Today! Beautiful Beargrass Aisle Receptions for up to 120 ppl Group discounts on rooms Affordable wedding menus Professional & Friendly Staff Beautiful honeymoon suites Winter weddings Wedding packages available
Photo © Shannon Pratt Photography
2011
BRIDAL FANTASY 403.859.2106 • alex@waymarker.ca • www.watertonlakeslodge.com www.bridalfantasy.com
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EXTRAS Advice
Charming Children If you’re looking for ways to make the kids in your wedding more comfortable, we’ve come up with some ideas! • Assign them a helper – ideally another member of the wedding party who can keep an eye on them, hang out with them before the ceremony, and take them outside if they start to cry. • Bring a change of clothes for the wedding reception – this way they can eat, run around, and play with crayons or other toys without the fear of ruining nice clothes. • Practice walking down the aisle, until they are comfortable with it. • Show them exactly where their parents will be sitting
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Consider buying them a book that talks about being a flower girl or ring bearer. For a child whose parent is getting married, be sure to include them in the ceremony. This may mean asking the officiant to mention their names several times, or it may mean doing a family medallion ceremony, unity candle ceremony or ring ceremony that will include them in the new family that is being created. You could also include the children in your vows to each other. Having a part to play in the wedding ceremony can help a child feel less anxious about the marriage.
Roles for little ones: • • • • • • • •
Flowergirl Ring bearer Junior Bridesmaid Junior Groomsman Handing out programs Setting up place cards and/or favours Special reading or prayers Carrying candles (older kids!)
2011
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