Valley Bride

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contents

2009

valleybride

12

on the cover 19 THE CHECKLIST Get organized for your big day with our handy planning timeline to-do checklist.

Editor

Gord Kurenoff PUBLISHERS Abbotsford

24 PHOTO MEMORIES

Fred Armstrong

Tips for capturing all the incredible moments of this important day.

Chilliwack

Nick Bastaja Art Director

27 JEWELRY

Margi Jarvis

Dramatic earrings and sparkling crystal bangles are this years’ must-haves for the discerning bride.

Production FOREMAN

Neil Wilson

Advertising DESIGN Abbotsford

8 THE FLOWERS

Marilyn Howard Adrienne Johns

Our helpful tips can make choosing the perfect flowers easy and stress-free.

Chilliwack

Michelle Frank Robyn Marshall Advertising CONSULTANTS

Bruce MacLennan Karin Swain Kal Sidhu Jeff Warren Brian Rumsey Andrea Weiman Marni DeBoer

Administration

Gail Hillis

Credit Manager

Helen Larson

Advertising co-ordinatorS Abbotsford

Louise Parsons Chilliwack

Tara Goodkey-Chapman Valleybride magazine is published by Lower Mainland Publishing Group, a division of CanWest Publications Inc. Enquiries can be addressed to: Valleybride Magazine 30887 Peardonville Road, Abbotsford, BC, V2T 6K2 Phone: Abbotsford

604-854-5244 Chilliwack

604-792-9117

features 3 DESTINATION WEDDINGS

34 HOW MUCH LIQUOR?

Not just for the rich and famous anymore - these ceremonies can actually go the less expensive route.

Know exactly how much to buy for your event.

11 THE TUXEDO

Hoping for good fortune on your wedding day? We have tracked down some traditions you may not know about.

Your attire requires careful consideration, we go through the many styles and choices, with some great tips as well.

12 SHOES Believe it or not, there are plenty of options that are beautiful as well as comfortable.

18 PREPARING FOR THE BIG DAY Ensure the wedding of your dreams with proper organizing and scheduling.

22 INTERFAITH WEDDINGS How to represent each other in a respectful way.

28 MUSIC Ask the right questions, get the service you need.

32 TOASTING MADE EASY Don’t fret over this tradition, we can help make your sentiments memorable.

36 FOLKLORE, MYTHS AND CHARMS 37 go green For the environmentally conscious bride and groom.

3

destinat

  valleybride 2009

ation “I do” Many couples choose to tie the knot away from home.

This enables them to marry the ceremony and a vacation in one convenient package.

W

hile you may think they’re for the rich and famous, destination weddings can actually be less expensive than traditional celebrations closer to home. This may be advantageous to brides and grooms who are feeling the effects of today’s economic crunch. That’s because destination weddings generally have smaller guest lists, and many of the “extras” that are tacked on to a traditional wedding are covered in the all-inclusive price of a destination event. So you can cut down on the cost of the $ 0,000 to $30,000 average-priced wedding, particularly if guests are paying for their own tickets.

Destination weddings are for couples who want to put the focus on fun. They enable you to pump up the enjoyment factor and marry a vacation (if you’ll pardon the pun) and a wedding into one handy package. They also start the honeymoon at the point of arrival at your destination. One-of-a-kind memories are created with a

destination wedding, particularly when exotic locales are the backdrop for your celebration.

Because travel is involved, destination weddings are often facilitated with the help of a travel agent or wedding valleybride 009 5

planner. This person can help you work out all of the details of the wedding, primarily when you’re working with vendors who may be out of state or out of the country.

Keep in mind that if you have your heart set on all of your friends and family being able to attend your wedding, destination weddings may not be the way to go. That’s because even with the best planning, it’s relatively impossible for everyone’s schedules to co-ordinate for this kind of event.

While there certainly are negatives to having a wedding away from home, the growing list of positives attracts more and more couples each year: • Reduced fuss over a

wedding that takes place at home, where most of the planning is being handled by the couple; • Budgetary factors, including lower costs for a less elaborate affair; • Informal choices for wedding attire, saving even more money; • Something different for the couples who like to stand out; • Alternatives for second weddings or those who prefer less tradition; • Loosening of marriage laws overseas, which make it easier for couples to tie the knot in foreign locales; and • The opportunity for “destination anniversaries,” where couples can revisit their wedding site for even more memories. n

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Find the right Flowers

The right florist can bring to life your vision of wedding day perfection

O

ne of the more aesthetically appealing and, as a result, noticeable parts of a wedding are the floral arrangements.

The right choice of flowers can add that much more to an already special day, while the wrong choice can become an irritating distraction from the bride and groom. To make sure your arrangements are a perfect addition, instead of an eyesore, consider the following tips:

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• Ask around: Recently married friends who live nearby should be able to recommend a good florist or at least keep you from making the same mistakes they made. Ask about particular arrangements and what styles they chose. If you attended their wedding, try and remember the type of event it was, be it a formal party or a more casual gathering.

Oftentimes, the nature of the wedding can dictate what arrangement might be most appropriate.

If none of your friends in the area have recently walked down the aisle, ask the staff at the reception hall or where the ceremony itself will be taking place. Chances

are, they’ve been exposed to numerous arrangements and seen them in action, so they could prove to be a valuable resource.

• View a portfolio: If a florist is worth hiring, he or she should have a portfolio of past weddings he or she has worked on.

This can be your best way to gauge how the image in your head might match up with what the florist will provide come the big day.

Some florists can also put together a sample bouquet.

If a florist has no portfolio, seriously consider going elsewhere.

• Go prepared: When going to visit or interview a florist, bring as much information as possible.

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a picture of both the bride’s dress and at least the colour of the bridesmaids’ gowns, this can be a big help in making sure you select flowers that co-ordinate.

Also, know exactly what you’ll be needing, such as how many arrangements, bouquets, boutonnieres and corsages, and ask for an itemized estimate.

This will ensure that you won’t be surprised when it comes time to pay the bill and you can pick only those items that fit within your budget.

• Ask about using flowers that are in-season: This can be a good way to save money. Using outof-season flowers will cost more, while inseason flowers and those specific to your region

of the country can considerably lessen the blow on your budget.

Filler material, such as leaves and berries, can also save money but be pleasing to the eye.

• Get delivery s e r v i c e information before signing on the dotted line: Make sure you know if the florist moves the arrangements between locations and rearranges at the reception once the ceremony is over. No couple wants to worry about moving the flowers themselves, so make sure these arrangements are listed in the final agreement. n

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A tuxedo should co-ordinate with the formality and style of a wedding

T

here are many grooms-to-be who leave choosing their wedding-day attire to the last minute.

After all, it’s something that doesn’t require much thought at all, right?

Actually, choosing your attire requires careful consideration of several variables. As such, many men are intimidated by the process, another reason for procrastination. However, acquiring a few pointers will help make the process easier if you have limited experience with wedding-day attire.

It’s fi rst important to consider the style of your wedding.

What time is it being held? What is the size of the wedding party and the number of attendants? Will it be held in a church with a reception at a fancy catering hall, or is it a more laid-back affair at a park or on the beach? All these questions will help determine the formality of the event.

Your wardrobe choices should coincide with this level of formality.

Tuxedos are often the attire of choice for weddings that are moderately or ultra formal. A tuxedo with a bow tie and tails is a very formal look. For the majority of weddings a tuxedo without tails, with a matching vest and regular tie, will be adequate for the groom and groomsmen.

On some occasions, especially casual weddings, grooms choose to wear a sports jacket and slacks rather than a tuxedo.

see dressing the groom page17

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valleybride 009 11

best PUT YOUR

foot forward

W

While a bride’s gown, hairstyle and other accoutrements are the fi rst things others see when she walks down the aisle, it’s what she wears on her feet that may have the most impact on her wedding day.

That’s because a comfortable bride is often a happy bride. And as anyone who has squeezed into too-tight shoes knows, one’s mood can certainly turn sour if feet are covered with blisters and walking is uncomfortable.

While many brides are quick to pick the most beautiful shoes for their wedding day, perhaps they should choose more based on comfort than aesthetics.

That said, there are still plenty of options that are beautiful as well as comfortable.

DECIDING ON A STYLE Shoes come in many styles that can complement a wedding- day look.

OPEN TOE: These sandal-like shoes are best worn in warm weather and without stockings for a clean look.

Brides should be sure to splurge on a pedicure so their toes look neat and perfect.

SLINGBACK: These shoes expose the heel for a little bit of drama. Make sure they fi t well otherwise the heel strap may slide down and become a nuisance.

1 valleybride 009

CLOSED TOE: These shoes are completely enclosed and may be preferred for the bride who wants to wear a full stocking. They create an unbroken line from the gown to the fl oor. They’re also elegant and ideal for winter weddings.

PEEP TOE: This offers the benefi ts of a closed-toe shoe with a little peek of toe. They’re often considered sexy and sweet.

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We Are Your Total Invitation Store CHOOSE HEEL HEIGHT Many brides want to be the belle of the ball, and to them high heels seem to be the way to achieve this. However, choosing a lower heel or a flat may be a smart move where comfort is involved. A word of advice is to choose the lowest heel possible, which helps avoid snags on a gown or unsteady traversing down the aisle or up and down church steps. Lower heels are also much more comfortable for dancing.

BREAKING IN SHOES It is recommended that you choose shoes prior to a last fitting so that the gown length can be adjusted depending upon the height of the heel.

Purchasing shoes early also gives brides a chance to break in their shoes. Wearing the shoes around the house and scuffing up the soles not only makes them more comfortable and less slip-worthy, it gives brides practise walking in them. Plus, if upon breaking in the shoes she finds they aren’t what she hoped for, a new pair of shoes can be purchased.

Remember, feet tend to swell as the day goes on, so brides may want to choose a shoe a half-size bigger for comfort later on.

BAIT AND SWITCH Some brides prefer to sweat out the ceremony and pictures in one pair of less comfortable shoes and then switch into a pair of satin slippers or even sneakers for the remainder of the celebration.

When favours or flowers are dropped off at the reception, a friend can tuck these switch-out shoes under the bride’s seat so she can change into them at her convenience.

WEDDING TRADITIONS Brides can create wedding memories by taking their shoes and having them bronzed, just like parents used to do with baby shoes. They can also have all the unmarried bridesmaids sign their names on the soles of the shoes. The last name left that hasn’t worn off after the end of the wedding is the next person who will be getting married.

Some brides prefer to wear shoes that match their wedding colour or offer that “something blue.” n

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dressingthegroom continued from page 11 Tuxedos are flattering, especially when a black tuxedo is chosen. Black is slimming, and simply slipping into a tuxedo can enable anyone to look sophisticated. These garments are available in a number of sizes, but a reputable shop will make minor alterations to ensure a perfect fit. You want to be sure there is no pulling in the jacket and that the pants are a good length. As well, shirt sleeve length is important (the cuffs should extend past the jacket a little bit). The fit of the shirt collar is also important. You want to be comfortable the entire duration of your wedding.

Tuxedo jackets come in many styles, with the basics being single- or doublebreasted. Double-breasted jackets may add a little bulk, which should be avoided by heavy men or those who are very slim. Jackets also come in different lengths. Choose one that is proportionate to your height so your body does not look overwhelmed by the jacket. Here are a few of the styles: • Cutaway jacket: This jacket is shorter in the front and tapers to one longer tail in the back. It is traditionally a formal daytime jacket.

• Traditional tuxedo jacket: As mentioned, this can be single or double-breasted and feature varied numbers of button closures. The lapels may also be varied.

A peaked lapel forms a “V” at the collar and points upward. A notched lapel has an indentation at the

collar in the shape of a triangle. A shawl lapel has no indentation and smoothly curves around the neck.

• Mandarin jacket: Mandarin-style jackets do not have a lapel but a collar that stands straight up. It is worn with a mandarin-style shirt without a tie.

• Long coat: The long coat is best worn by tall, broadshouldered men and is traditional in colder weather.

The coat extends beyond the fingertips of the wearer.

• Dinner jacket: This is a variation on the regular tuxedo jacket, but it is usually ivory or white in color. This can set the groom apart from other members of the wedding party.

Many grooms-to-be opt to rent their tuxedo instead of purchasing one. Wedding experts recommend renting the attire three months before the wedding. All groomsmen should rent their tuxedos from the same shop for a uniform look. It is also customary to co-ordinate the tuxedos with the gowns bridesmaids will be wearing.

One way to do so is with a similar-coloured tie, vest or cummerbund. Take a colour swatch of a bridesmaids’ gowns with you to the tuxedo store for assistance with matching the look.

Pick up the tuxedo a day or two before the wedding and try on every piece, including the shoes, to check for fit.

This way you have time for an exchange if something is not right or to pick up a missing tie or cufflink, which is apt to happen. n

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Preparation enhances your big day

T

here are a few things where weddings are concerned that cannot be predicted or controlled. What Mother Nature will do on the day is one of them. However, there are many items well within the control of the bride and groom; proper planning can reduce stress and help ensure the wedding of their dreams.

One of the best ways to ease wedding day nerves is for the couple to get organized and begin planning their event the moment the engagement period begins. The earlier preparation starts, the better the chance vendors will be able to provide what’s needed, or changes can be made when unforeseen events pop up. By using the list of things to do (Page 19), couples can allot time in their schedules for each task – and they can feel a sense of accomplishment and relief each time an item is ticked off the list.

Decide on the wedding date – Couples should select a date for their wedding soon after becoming engaged. After all, it is the countdown to this day that will help organize and determine planning schedules.

Reserve a ceremony location – Traditional weddings take place in a house of worship. It’s best to meet with a pastor, rabbi or other officiant to see if the ceremony site will be available for the wedding. This person will also help guide couples through any religious requirements needed prior to getting married.

Book a reception site – After securing the ceremony location, couples will have peace of mind knowing they can now book 18 valleybride 2009

the place where their party will take place. This may be a catering hall, hotel, cruiseship, or even someone’s backyard.

Sometimes the ceremony site is also the reception site, as is the case in many second weddings. Catering directors are typically on hand to talk about pricing and options. They will work closely with the couple.

Select a photographer – Photographers tend to book quickly, particularly if they are well recommended. It pays to research and choose one early in the wedding planning process. Every photographer has a different style. The couple should select one who will accommodate their wishes, but also suggest ideas that may not have been considered – such as artistic black and white prints or photojournalism-type images.

The photographer’s personality is very important. He or she will be spending the entire day with the couple and should be liked and personable. Couples should find out if the photographer they speak with at the studio will be the one shooting the wedding. Some companies have multiple staff on hand.

Book a band or DJ – Another vendor that tends to have a busy schedule will be the wedding entertainer. Early booking ensures your date will be available. Couples should talk about ways to engage the various generations attending the reception in the fun.

Choose a florist – Flowers add an elegant touch to the wedding day. The couple should select a florist who offers creative ideas about bouquets, corsages and centerpieces.

Select and order dresses – Wedding and bridesmaid gowns can take several months to order and be tailored. It can also take some trial and error finding a dress shop that meets the needs of a bride and her attendants. So it’s best if this fun part of wedding planning is done early on. While there are no set rules for gown selection, it may help if the bride and her attendants all use the same shop so that styles will be complementary and service and alterations can be organized with minimal fuss.

Order invitations – With a bevy of styles of invitations there will be many ideas to consider. Couples should leave ample time to look through invitation sample books or do research on the Internet. They should decide on a style that best suits their wedding, based on its formality, the time of day and the wedding colours.

Choose transportation – Many couples forget to factor limousine or car rentals into their wedding-day plans. Whether it’s a limo, Rolls, horse-drawn carriage, or a party bus, the bride and groom should arrange for transportation for themselves and their attendants to and from the church and reception site.

Find formal wear – Tuxedo rentals are quite popular for weddings. If the wedding is taking place during a peak party season, such as prom time, it pays for couples to reserve tuxes several months in advance of the wedding. All the groomsmen should rent from the same shop to be uniform.

With these important decisions made, the bride- and groomto-be have only a few things left to do as their wedding draws nearer. This includes selecting wedding favours, addressing the invitations and purchasing thank-you gifts.

yourplanningtimeline Tick off these boxes as you complete your to-dos, filling in extra tasks as needed Sixteen to Nine Months Before o Start a wedding folder o Work out the budget o Build your wedding party o Settle on a head count o Hire a planner, if desired o Book the date and venues o Book the officiant o Research photographers bands, florists, and caterers o Insert vendor contact information into a master contact list o Throw engagement party o ______________________________ o ______________________________ o ______________________________

Five to Four Months Before o Book the rehearsal and rehearsaldinner venues o Check on printing of wedding invitations o Order the cake o Send the guest list to the bridalshower hostess o Purchase shoes and start dress fittings o Schedule hair and makeup artists o Choose songs o Plan welcome baskets o ______________________________ o ______________________________ o ______________________________

Eight Months Before o Book the photographer and the videographer o Book entertainment o Register o Purchase a dress o Start meeting caterers o Reserve block of hotel rooms for guests o Launch a wedding website o ______________________________ o ______________________________ o ______________________________

Three Months Before o Finalize the menu and the flowers o Order favors, if desired o Create a toast makers’ list o Finalize readings o Purchase the rings o Finalize order of the ceremony and reception o Print menu cards and programs o Purchase undergarments and visit dressmaker for second fitting o Send schedule to vendors o ______________________________ o ______________________________ o ______________________________

Seven to Six Months Before o Purchase invitations and hire a calligrapher o Plan your honeymoon o Shop for bridesmaids’ dresses o Meet with the officiant o Send save-the-date cards o Reserve structural and electrical necessities o Book a florist o Procure transportation o Start composing a day-of timeline o ______________________________ o ______________________________ o ______________________________

Two Months Before o Discuss locations and shots with photographer o Review playlist with the band or the deejay o Send invitations o Touch base with vendors o Submit a newspaper wedding announcement o Enjoy bachelorette party o ______________________________ o ______________________________ o ______________________________

One Month Before o Put RSVPs into guest-list database and phone invitees who haven’t yet responded. o Get marriage licence o Mail rehearsal-dinner invitations o Have final dress fitting o Stock the bar o Send out as many final payments as you can o Confirm times for hair and makeup and vendors o Assign seating o Purchase bridesmaids’ gifts to hand out at the rehearsal dinner o Write vows, if necessary o Get hair cut and coloured, if desired o ______________________________ o ______________________________ o ______________________________

Week of o Reconfirm arrival times with all vendors o Delegate small wedding-day tasks to friends and family members o Send final timeline to bridal party o Make arrangements for the dress to be delivered or pick it up yourself o Supply photographer with a list of moments you want captured o Set aside cheques and tip envelope for vendors o Book spa treatment o Send final guest count to caterer and venues o Break in shoes o Assemble welcome baskets and distribute o Pack for honeymoon o ______________________________ o ______________________________ o ______________________________ o ______________________________ o ______________________________ o ______________________________ o ______________________________

valleybride 2009 19

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Tips for an interfaith wedding O

rganizing a wedding is seldom easy. As if the more minute details weren’t enough, for couples of different faiths the ceremony must be planned as well. Whereas couples of the same faith won’t have to do too much planning with respect to the wedding ceremony itself, interfaith couples often must spend significant time reconciling each faith so that both are represented in a respectful way. While it can be challenging to do, the following tips should help interfaith couples plan the wedding of their dreams.

Examine your beliefs: Think about the things that mean the most to you, and about those areas where you’re open

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to compromise. If particular aspects of your faith’s standard wedding ceremony are especially important or meaningful to you, be sure to have those included in the ceremony.

Discuss the ceremony with both partners’ respective families: While some couples might want to steer clear of involving their families in the decision-making process of their wedding, inviting close family members to share their opinions could be beneficial. Be prepared for such discussions to get emotional, particularly if parents or grandparents take part. The contributions of family members could help you gain a better perspective of both your faith and that of your partner. Be sure, however, to politely make it known that while you value the opinions of family members, ultimately all the decisions rest with you and your partner.

Respect each other as well: Involving both families and respecting those families can be an important step in planning an interfaith marriage. But it’s especially important for each partner to respect the other’s faith and beliefs as well.

Even if neither of you is spiritual nor regularly attends services, that doesn’t mean your faiths aren’t important to you. Recognize that and be respectful of each other.

Openly communicate each step of the way: While certain details of the wedding might not require lots of communication, planning an interfaith ceremony does not fall under that umbrella. Make sure both partners are involved every step of the way, and openly discuss each aspect of the decision making process.

Determine who will officiate the wedding: Some interfaith couples opt for two clergy members, one from each person’s faith, to perform the ceremony. Others look for interfaith officiants who have performed interfaith weddings in the past. If one partner was especially attached to their childhood clergy member, invite them to perform or at least attend the ceremony. n

”Planning my wedding was so easy!”

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Candid Shots Capture great wedding day photo memories

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wedding is essential. That’s why a photographer is such an important part of the wedding planning process.

Although professional wedding portraits and albums are a key component to good memories, candid shots from family and friends who attend the wedding are some of the most cherished photos a couple can have.

Here are some tips for capturing all the incredible moments of this important day: Tell a story: Start taking pictures before the wedding even occurs. If you’re a friend or a family member, capture the special events leading up to the wedding, such as dress fi ttings, choosing wedding rings, the bridal shower, or shots of the bachelor party. This way the photos can be put together to tell the entire story of the wedding, culminating with the big day.

Go for the close-up: Stand no more than four to six feet from your subjects when snapping a picture. You want to be sure the couple is the central focus of the picture, not the distracting background items.

Shoot candid shots: Posed pictures have their place, but candid shots can really capture the mood and excitement of the day. Snap away while everyone is dancing, when the couple isn’t looking, or if you see a special moment that others may not be aware of. see photo memories page 26

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photo memories

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continued from Page 25 Include pictures of party participants: The couple will have plenty of images of themselves and their wedding party in a photographer’s album. What they may be missing are the people who actually attended the wedding. Be sure to take plenty of pictures of the people who came together to share in this special day.

Special surprise: Thanks to the immediate gratification that digital cameras provide, you can treat the happy couple to a preview of their wedding pictures even before the big day has ended. Use the time between the wedding ceremony and reception to have a few prints of the nuptials printed. Place them in a photo album and give this gift to the couple at the reception. n

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Jewelry for Sophisticated Brides

and the Entire Bridal Party

Before... engagement rings

Dramatic earrings and sparkling bangles are trendy options for brides. Show your thanks to bridal party attendants with Sterling Sentiments bangles (above).

C

handelier earrings and sparkling crystal bangles are popular choices for today’s sophisticated brides, according to the style experts at Carolee, a leading fashion jewelry company.

“Carolee has long been the jewelry destination for brides and their bridal parties,” says Jill Maier, Carolee’s vicepresident of design. “We have come to learn what brides want to create a look and style that is their own.”

Carolee Collections, including the new upscale Carolee Lux collection, feature a vast selection of classic and modern designs for brides, from demure to dramatic. “In the last few years, we’ve seen more brides look to mirror current fashion trends in their bridal jewelry,” offers Maier. That translates into bigger, bolder pieces such as large drama earrings, glittering crystal and pearl cuffs and statement necklaces that draw attention to the neckline. Carolee Lux features exquisite designs with crystals and CZ, hand-polished and knotted simulated pearls and sterling silver, offering every member of the bridal party elegant choices.

Fashionable jewelry isn’t just for the bride; it also makes a great gift for bridal party attendants. Say “thank you” with the very popular Sterling Sentiments bangles that are engraved in five languages with Friend, Sister, Niece, Mother, Grandmother or Love. These bangles are gift boxed and priced in the $100 range.

Other treasured and affordable bridal gifts include freshwater cultured pearls. Hand-knotted necklaces, bracelets and earrings in stud or drop styles are available in pearl alone or pearl accented with cubic zirconia. Prices range from $40 to $75, in styles that will appeal to a wide range of bridal party members.

The Carolee and Lux jewelry collections are available at fine department and specialty stores worldwide and at www.carolee.com, where you can request a free catalogue. n

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Sweet Tune Sing a

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Song choices can personalize your wedding and make it unique

M

usic is an integral part of the wedding ceremony and the reception. Music often conveys emotions that are diffi cult to put into words.

Additionally, songs and music help us remember certain key moments more easily. That’s why we often associate rites of passage with the soundtrack of that time in our lives.

Because music is such an important part of the wedding, you want to take the time and necessary precautions to avoid wedding day music slip-ups. As with most parts of the wedding process, preparation and planning – as well as some reputable word-of-mouth recommendations – can make selecting musicians and song choices for your wedding much smoother. Consider the following: THE CEREMONY Can you picture the bride and her attendants walking down the aisle without any music? Many couples give careful consideration to the reception music and leave the ceremony music to chance – not a good idea.

Ask your house of worship if they have any rules regarding song selections, as well as regulations on house or outside musicians. Then work your music selections according to these guidelines. While traditionally brides enter to Here Comes the Bride, stricter houses of worship may not allow this tune, or brides simply may prefer something else. Just keep in mind the tempo and length of the song so that it will match the gait and size of the wedding party.

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Chances are the ceremony musicians will be different from those who are playing at your reception.

Therefore, this may require a little extra planning.

If your house of worship provides the musician, arrange to sit down to talk about styles and what to expect. Also arrange to have payment or a tip provided for his or her services.

The reception You will likely have options with your choices at the reception, depending on the venue. Brides and grooms usually use live performers or DJs who play pre-recorded music. Some performers offer a combination of both.

Consider the style of your wedding. Will it be formal or informal? Traditional or contemporary? Aim for music that suits the style or theme of the wedding. A full-piece orchestra may seem out of place at a casual party.

When you are choosing music, consider your tastes and the tastes of your guests as well. While you won’t be able to please each and every person, the wider the range of music you have available, the greater the chance of people getting up to dance and enjoying themselves.

Contracts Once you decide on your ceremony and reception musicians, it’s important to sign a contract and work out payment agreements. Having the information in writing

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Weddings Dances Christmas & New Years Corporate Events

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30 valleybride 2009

preferred rates rooms for family friends and wedding party

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Weddings from small and intimate, to groups of 100, in an elegant atmosphere. A patio for ceremonies, champagne toasts plus beautiful grounds overlooking the Fraser River for precious photos.

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protects you in case the musicians don’t deliver what was expected.

Here are some points that should be covered in the contracts: • Price, deposit amount, additional charges (travel, food requirements, etc.), and overtime rates.

• The number of musicians who will be attending and what instruments they play, in the case of a wedding band.

• Names of specific people you want, such as DJ, lead vocalist, emcee, and what compensation will be made if these people are not available.

• Date and hours they’ll be working.

• Additional services, such as dramatic lighting, dancers or party favours.

• Number of breaks and how the break time will be covered, such as with recorded music.

• Style of dress or costumes.

• Specific music requests and a list of your wedding attendants so they’ll have the right names if announcements are being made.

Be sure to ask friends, relatives and others for musician recommendations. When you attend weddings, take the cards of performers you enjoyed. Contact prospective performers early on to ensure your wedding date is available. n

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valleybride 2009 31

Toasting

White Dress

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32 valleybride 2009

Tips

A

wedding-day toast is a tradition that has long been a part of wedding celebrations. Toasts are a personal way of commemorating the good fortune of the newly betrothed and looking forward to future happiness.

The best man traditionally gives the main toast at the wedding. At different occasions on the road to the wedding there may be other opportunities for toasts from the maid of honour or even the parents of the bride and groom.

While some people are natural orators and have no trouble speaking in front of large crowds of people, the majority of toasters approach the task with a bit of trepidation. Apart from the anxiety of speaking in front of a group of friends and relatives, it can be nerve-wracking to come up with sentiments for the toast, which can mean the difference between a memorable and an embarrassing wedding-day experience.

While there are no toasting

guarantees, following a few tips can help nervous toasters do a bang-up job: Be prepared: Individuals who try to “wing it” the day of the wedding may find their nerves get the best of them.

It’s best to write out your thoughts in advance of the wedding and finetune your sentiments many times.

Think about whether you want to go funny or sentimental. Consider your relationship with the bride and groom and try to personalize the speech as much as possible. Practise the toast in front of others and get some unbiased opinions before the wedding.

Time it right: If the thought of spending the entire reception waiting to give the toast has you on edge, ask the prospective couple if you can give the toast early on in the night. This way you can relax afterward and enjoy the party.

Jot down notes: If you think your nerves will get the best of you, bring some index cards with key phrases of the toast. You could write out the entire speech, but if you simply read it, the

toast could seem stiff and impersonal.

Hold off on cocktails: While it’s generally fine to have one or two drinks prior to the toast to loosen up, don’t overdo it. Alcohol and public speaking often do not mix. You don’t want to say something you will regret later on or make a mockery of the wedding.

Keep it short: Aim for a two- or three-minute speech. Something longwinded won’t hold the attention of wedding guests who are looking to get on with the fun of the wedding reception.

Speak slowly and clearly: Articulate and speak loud enough so everyone can hear the speech. You will likely be handed a microphone. If you get nervous and trip up, simply make a quick joke and get back to it. Others will understand if you are tense.

Don’t be afraid of getting emotional: “Wedding guests would rather see real feelings than a beauty-pageant speech,” says Sharon Naylor, author of Your Special Wedding Toasts. So if you get choked up, don’t worry. n

The perfect gift starts here...

the registry

Beauty

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We have every kind of fabric imaginable to help you create the wedding gown of your dreams. Our textile experts are happy to assist you in selecting the right material for the look and feel you have in mind.

Together we can make your dream-gown a reality. satin tafetta organza charmeuse tulle

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theliquorlist To the right, how much booze to buy for a four-hour event based on your guest list Keep in mind...

Planners estimate one drink per person per hour.

(A bottle of wine or champagne contains five drinks: a litre of spirits, 22.) For each bottle of spirits, you need three containers of mixers – club soda, tonic, juice and so on.

Bump up your numbers for a Saturday night affair and lower them for a Sunday soiree. Warm weather outdoor weddings call for more clear liquors (for vodka gimlets and gin and tonics), cocktail parties might prompt guests to order martinis, and multi course sit-downs will necessitate plenty of wine.

Let John and Nancy Pritchard and their expert staff help plan a great wine selection for that special occasion.

Check out their great selection of custom wedding labels.

Vedder Crossing Plaza #15-6014 Vedder Rd, Sardis 604-824-9602 Southgate Plaza #14-45905 Yale Rd, Chilliwack 604-792-9689 Check out the details and more at www.divinewines.ca 34 valleybride 2009

liquor quantity chart Number of guests

50

100

150

200

250

Red Wine

10 bottles

12 bottles

18 bottles

20 bottles

24 bottles

White Wine

6 bottles

12 bottles

18 bottles

20 bottles

24 bottles

Champagne

10 bottles

20 bottles

30 bottles

40 bottles

50 bottles

Beer

60 bottles

120 bottles

180 bottles

240 bottles

300 bottles

Vodka

2 bottles

4 bottles

5 bottles

8 bottles

10 bottles

Gin

1 bottle

2 bottles

3 bottles

4 bottles

5 bottles

Rum

1 bottle

2 bottles

3 bottles

4 bottles

5 bottles

Bourbon

2 bottles

2 bottles

4 bottles

4 bottles

6 bottles

Scotch (blended)

1 bottle

2 bottles

3 bottles

4 bottles

5 bottles Source: Jennifer Klock

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valleybride 2009 35

F Wedding folklore,

myths & good luck charms

W

ho doesn’t hope for good fortune on their wedding day?

That’s why there are so many traditions and steps people take to ensure luck is smiling down on them for their wedding. Here are some traditions you may not have known abouts: According to Greek culture, tuck a sugar cube into your glove on your wedding. The sugar will sweeten your union.

English tradition says that Wednesday is the best day to marry. Monday is for wealth and Tuesday is for health.

The groom carries his newly betrothed across the threshold to protect her from evil spirits.

Hindu tradition says rain on your wedding day is good luck.

For good luck, Egyptian 36 valleybride 2009

women are known to pinch the bride on her wedding day.

In Holland a pine tree is planted outside the newlyweds’ home for good luck and fertility.

Wedding and engagement rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it was long believed a vein ran from that finger directly to the heart.

Ancient Greeks and Romans said a wedding veil protected the bride from evil spirits. It has been a tradition to wear a veil ever since The term “tie the knot” comes from Roman times when the bride wore a girdle tied in knots that the groom was later able to untie. Some also believe it refers to the knots of rope that were tied to form the marriage bed. n

lavours for your day

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M

Making Memories BRIDAL & EVENTS “Your Ultimate Wedding Resource Centre”

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Something old, something new, something borrowed,

something... green?

I

f you have a hybrid car parked in your garage, recycle rain water to irrigate backyard plants and have replaced just about every bulb in your home with compact fluorescents, there’s a good chance that you’re environmentally conscious. But what if you’ve just gotten engaged and want to impart some of these green ways of thinking to the wedding? What can you do to be Earth-friendly when tying the knot?

Going green for your wedding day doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the elements that will make the day special. It just means you can take a look at the details and the bigger picture and develop strategies that will minimize the impact on the planet.

Go local: From food to fl owers, choose vendors that use locally grown and raised products. This reduces the amount of smog generated and fuel consumed to bring items in for your wedding.

Many caterers are now collaborating with local farms and other vendors to offer organic, locally grown menu items. It pays to ask about availability.

Go to your guests: Figure out where the greatest number of your guests reside and then hold the wedding nearby. For example, if you’ve relocated to the West Coast, but your family is all back east, you may want to hold your wedding in the east. It is less expensive and more environmentally friendly for the bride and groom to fl y to the wedding, rather than having hundreds of guests drive or fl y west.

Be mindful of wardrobe choices: Choose items that really can be worn again. Skip the rented tuxes and ask groomsmen to wear a similar styled suit that they can add to their work wardrobe. Bridesmaids can wear a simple black cocktail dress so that they’re not left with a taffeta creation that will only hang in the closet afterward. If you decide to go more traditional with wardrobe, fi nd out if gowns can be recycled or donated so that they can be reused in another way.

Choose recycled materials for wedding invitations and announcements: There are

an increasing number of suppliers creating invitations from recycled materials. Some will do all the assembly for you; other less-expensive items may be more hands-on. Cut down on further use of paper by creating a wedding website where you post directions, maps, party times, and other essential information so you avoid extra slip-in sheets with your invitations.

Create car-pool options: Bus guests to your venue to save on gas. It is also a safer option for those who will be indulging in alcoholic beverages at the party since they won’t have to drive on the return trip home.

Investigate ecologically responsible wedding jewelry: According to Greenkarat, purveyors of ecologically responsible engagement rings and wedding bands, ,500 tonnes of gold are mined each year, even though there is enough gold above ground (already mined) to satisfy all demands of the jewelry industry for the next 50 years. Much of it sits in bank vaults and in the form of old and unused jewelry. See if you can recycle old jewelry into something new. Or embrace the sentimental hand-me-down rings from a grandmother or other relative. n

Notes...

n Clark’s Catering - 46296 Yale Road, Chilliwack - 604-795-7181 - www.clarkscatering.ca

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