2014 Summer/Fall Wedding Essentials Newsstand Edition

www.weddingessentials. ca

EenEtary!

FomR plim

C Bride’s Survival Guide See page 82

ROCK YOUR BRIDAL LOOK Tips For Looking & Feeling Amazing

EARN FAB FAVOUR MARKS With Guest Gifts That Thrill

IDEAS ROMANCE CREATIVE PHOTOS Real-Life Weddings Summer/Fall 2014

$5.95

DISPLAY UNTIL NOVEMBER 11, 2014

BE INSPIRED!

Gorgeous Gowns • Fabulous Flowers Cakes & Sweet Treats • Dazzling Décor Cover photo by DIVINEMETHOD Photography Other cover credits see page 14

FROM THE PUBLISHER

“In the decades since this picture on my wedding day, the standards of a ‘good shot’ have changed drastically. This may not be image quality for a magazine but sure is priceless to me. I can still get lost in the picture, as it brings me right back to the day when our cares were little and we were footloose and fancy free!” – John Webster

We are not alone.

I remember when I was helping plan my wedding, back in the last century, my bride-to-be Mary and I felt that we were the first to ever have to make all the decisions that were necessary for a smooth wedding ceremony and reception.

Fortunately, we, like you, were not alone. There are many sources for finding help.

Wedding Essentials has a history of making this daunting task easier, by letting you maintain control throughout the months of planning. But we’re not the same magazine that your mother may have used. Yes, we have the print version of the magazine, as well as our sister publications, The Savvy Bride and The Bride’s Survival Guide, but we are on the leading edge of the digital revolution.

With the use of your smart phone, you can scan any one of the QR Codes in our Advertisers’ Directory and immediately receive the information that you need. You can also scan the QR Code at the bottom of this letter and instantaneously attend our Internet Bridal Show™ from the comfort of your own chair. This opens an entire world of thoughts and ideas, as well as suppliers who are waiting to answer your questions and fulfil your wishes.

8 | Wedding Essentials 2014

But that’s not all.

We’ve provided a free bridal registry and you don’t have to stick with one store anymore. Just ‘pin’ the gifts you would like to receive by scanning the bar code with your smart phone from any item, in any store. The list will be created on your very own wedding website for your guests to choose from. You will also have access to your own video “Thank You” cards and the ability to have a cash registry, or sell tickets to your events, as well as to receive RSVPs from your video invitation. It’s all yours, with the compliments of Wedding Essentials. We have married our print media with digital media in order to make it easier for you to create your dream wedding.

But that’s still not all.

This information age that we live in creates more decisions for you. How can you possibly know which information is credible, and what is gossip and hype?

I am proud of our Editor, Judy Johnson, and her stable of writers and researchers. Judy has cut through all the noise and has created content for you in this magazine that is interesting, unique and trustworthy. The Real-Life Weddings are not wild ideas of what might be, but actual weddings of interest that worked. Our regular features are crammed with transferrable ideas, new trends and practical methods of creating the wedding you deserve. I’m blown away by the article on wedding favours— so many possibilities—a real eye-opener. Check out what you should be asking photographers when selecting who is going to take your images of a lifetime. There are tips for brides to look and feel their very best for their wedding celebrations, because every bride wants to put her best foot forward on the wedding aisle. There’s inspiration aplenty, from gowns, flowers and sweet treats to theme options. Just flip through to the Table of Contents on page 12 and you’ll be carried off on an enjoyable journey of wedding planning.

Enjoy,

John Webster | PUBLISHER

FROM THE EDITOR

I love flowers. I love springtime walks in the woods, admiring trilliums, wild lilies of the valley and delicate wood violets.

The bold hues of summer flowers match the season—roses, daylilies, and gladiola in a riot of colours and shades. Fall brings the deep brilliance of sunflowers, hydrangea, and chrysanthemums.

You can find me in greenhouses when we’re deep in the midst of a snowy Ontario winter—marvelling at showy birds-of-paradise, ginger flowers and orchids.

For my early-April wedding day I chose wedding flowers that were unusual at the time, a bridal bouquet of spring flowers in shades of yellow, pink, blue and white, and for the table centrepieces, “a host of golden daffodils”, to steal a phrase from Wordsworth. In our honeymoon suite, huge vases of daffodils trumpeted spring, even though a late snowfall covered the ground and trees just beyond the windows.

I’m smiling as I write this...happy in memories of special celebrations enhanced by a passion shared with my groom...flowers.

10 | Wedding Essentials 2 014

It’s easy to drown in a sea of information, of ideas, of other people’s visions of what makes a perfect wedding. However, you are unique, just as the relationship you and your groom-to-be share is unlike anyone else’s; your wedding day should celebrate that special quality and your passions.

Your task is to find supplier partners who are passionate about making bridal couples’ unique wedding dreams come true and who have the expertise to do exactly that. From photographers to florists to edible art creators, gown designers, bridal shop owners, wedding planners, to the people who create outstanding cuisine and all the other elements that culminate in a perfect wedding, you need to find your specialist partners, people who love their work and who are masters of it, this unique blend of art and business. We want to help you find the people who can transform your dream into reality.

At Wedding Essentials we understand being unique, because WE is exactly that...unique. We’re all about passion and partnerships and celebrating our uniqueness and helping you celebrate yours. Our goal is to provide valuable information that will help couples navigate smoothly through the white water challenge of wedding planning.

Congratulations on your engagement! I wish you joy as you plan the special wedding you’ve imagined. I wish you happiness as you begin a wonderful, and unique, journey through life with your partner. And I wish you continuing passion for love, life, new experiences, and all the wonderful people and places that you encounter along your path...as well as partnerships that help you achieve all of your dreams.

Your partner,

Judy Johnson | EDITOR

VOL.16, NO.1 | SUMMER/FALL 2014

PUBLISHER John Webster | Publisher@WeddingEssentials.ca

EDITORIAL EDITOR Judy Johnson | Editor@WeddingEssentials.ca COPY EDITOR David Jones | David@WeddingEssentials.ca CONTRIBUTORS Jonathan Barratt | Jessalynn Fincher | Madison Good | Imara Gower WEDDING WISDOM EDITOR David Jones | David@WeddingEssentials.ca ART DIRECTOR Mark Tzerelshtein | MarkintoshDesign.com

ADMINISTRATION SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER Mary Webster | Info@WeddingEssentials.ca BUSINESS & PRODUCTION MANAGER Carolyn Ryan | Carolyn@WeddingEssentials.ca ACCOUNTING Kelly McClatchey

ADVERTISING SALES G R E AT E R TO RO N TO A R E A O F F I C E John Webster | JohnWebster@WeddingEssentials.ca M U S K O K A , PA R R Y S O U N D , H A L I B U R T O N Steve Payne | Steve@WeddingEssentials.ca S O U T H W E S T E R N O N TA R I O Barry Johnson | BarryJohnson@WeddingEssentials.ca Wedding Essentials is published by The Town Crier of Markham Inc. ŠCopyright 2014 The Town Crier of Markham Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication in any form without the written permission of the publishers is prohibited.

Wedding Essentials and Internet Bridal Show are registered trade names of The Town Crier of Markham Inc., and the unauthorized use of these trade names is strictly prohibited.

The information in this publication is believed to be accurate.

However, neither Wedding Essentials nor The Town Crier of Markham Inc. can or will be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by advertisers listed herein.

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CONTACT Wedding Essentials 7 Town Crier Lane, Suite 100, Markham ON L3P 2T9 Phone: 416.498.4996 email: Mail@WeddingEssentials.ca For more wedding tips, trends and information, check out our rapidly-expanding website at www.WeddingEssentials.ca Printed in Canada.

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Wedding Essentials 20 1 4 | 11

CONTENTS

V O L . 1 6 , N O.1 S U MM E R / FA L L 2 0 1 4

REAL-LIFE WEDDINGS 22

RAINY-DAY GEORGIAN BAY NUPTIALS Heather & Scott

44

KOREAN TEA CEREMONY & WESTERN RITES Sahrah & Aaron

48

WINTRY ONTARIO TO SUNNY JAMAICA Stacey & Ryan

60

RECORD-SETTING CN EDGEWALK WEDDING Lacy & John

72

CINDERELLA WEDDING & INDIAN CELEBRATIONS Saba & Anees

78

ONTARIO WEST COAST COUNTRY WEDDING Jenna & Brent

96

MASQUERADE-THEMED WEDDING Shyla & Anthony

FEATURES 28

PERK THINGS UP! How to incorporate coffee in your wedding

66

FAVOURABLE FAVOURS Gifts to delight your guests

84

CHOOSING A PHOTOGRAPHER Key questions to help you decide

90

BRIDE TIPS TO ROCK THE LOOK How to look and feel your bridal best

92

NEWLYWEDS’ G U IDE TO CR A What/Where/How for Canada Revenue matters

A FREE GIFT FOR YOU

WEDDING PLANNER FOR ONTARIO BRIDES The Bride’s Survival Guide is a 128-page planner/organizer created specifically for brides in South-Central Ontario. It gives you detailed information on every aspect of getting married— from how to word your invitations to how to pack for your honeymoon. To request your FREE copy (a $39.95 value), complete and mail the postcard opposite page 83. Or complete the request form at www.WeddingEssentials.ca. (Quantities are limited.)

12 | Wedding Essentials 2014

contents

INSPIRATIONS 30

FASHION PASSION Inspiration from beautiful Ontario brides

52

BEAUTY Products to help you look your best

56

FLORAL FANTASY Beautiful blooms that delight

62

EDIBLE ART Palate pleasure possibilities

70

NEAT STUFF A sampling of products to test drive

102 PICNIC CELEBRATION Vow Renewal/Anniversary celebration 114 PLANET ONTARIO Celebrating Ontario’s cultural diversity

DIRECTORIES 18

RECEPTION REFERENCE GUIDE

109

DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS

Discover the image’s backstory at www.WeddingEssentials.ca

ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Siva Haran | DIVINEMETHOD Photography divinemethod.net | 416.527.8555 BRIDE & GROOM: Vinojaa Vijayaratnam + Gajan Radhakrishnan GOWN: #7V3204, David’s Bridal | 905.824.4655 HAIR & MAKEUP: BeAuTy by Nila | 647.291.9298 FLOWERS: Jenny’s Floral Boutique | 416.418.5181 LOCATION: Timothy Eaton Memorial Church, Toronto

14 | Wedding Essentials 2 014

contents

Wedding Wisdom 21

JUST THE RIGHT FIT What to expect when setting up appointments to have your gown fitted.

27

TOAST FROM THE HEART Helpful techniques to an amazing toast to help in honouring the bride and groom.

29

PUTTING HIS BEST FOOT FORWARD Get a leg up on how-tos for men’s accessories.

31

LOVE ALL AROUND How to help express your appreciation from the bottom of your heart.

33

TREAT YOURSELF TO A SPA DAY With what can appear to be chaos all around, don’t forget to take a moment for yourself to rejuvenate.

35

THE RING BEARER Help with how to work with the young men in your wedding party.

39

MIX IT UP Background noise should be music to your ears.

50

INVITATION BASICS 101 The beginning piece that sets the tone for your guests is just as important as the wedding day itself.

51

LIFESTYLE MATTERS Learning how to make your house your home.

53

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHILE CHOOSING YOUR HONEYMOON DESTINATION Allow yourself time to daydream about the time spent after your special day.

55

QUALITY OVER QUANTITY Four steps in helping you achieve the look that you have in mind.

57

MARRY YOUR HONEYMOON AND YOUR WEDDING How to let your wedding day and your honeymoon merge to one great escape!

59

WHAT TO ASK YOUR FLORIST 12 questions to prepare yourself and your florist to complete your dream arrangements.

61

DÉCOR DECISIONS Tip and tricks to create the look you are hoping for.

63

UNDERSTANDING THE FOOD LINGO A glossary to help when working closely with caterers and chefs.

71

SHOES! GLORIOUS SHOES!!

Make a statement or create a classic look.

81

THE FLOWER GIRL Choose wisely when deciding on the flower girl.

89

VIDEOGRAPHY A detailed photo and video checklist to help set up your memory album after the big day.

93

PICKING A DIAMOND Understanding when the 4 Cs come into play.

95

YOUR WEDDING. YOUR RECEPTION. YOUR WAY. Key components to look for in your venue contract before signing on the dotted line.

97

SETTING THE MOOD Lighting plays just as much in décor as any other item you are considering.

105 THE ENGAGEMENT AND WEDDING RINGS The ins, outs and round abouts when deciding your rings for each other.

107 THE COUNTDOWN CALENDAR A handy checklist to stay on track in the months before your wedding.

16 | Wedding Essentials 2014

Reception Reference Guide

A quick chart to help you to compare Ontario’s finest upscale wedding venues. All information is subject to change without notice. Some offerings may be available only on a limited, seasonal or by-request basis. Unless otherwise noted, alcohol charges, gratuities and taxes are extra.

NORTH OF TORONTO Page



Guests

$

Included In Price

Ceremony On Site

Outdoor Area

Special Menus

CHATEAU LE JARDIN CONFERENCE & EVENT VENUE 905.851.2200 30-1300 $75-160

A B F I J M N, open bar, antipasto bar

No

No

F G It P

CHRISTIES MILL INN & SPA 1.800.465.9966

PAGE 2

100

$35-150

AIMBFJNRGOSUHLPT

Yes

Yes

Ca Ch G H In It Ja K P V

20-450

$90-250

ABFGIJNOPRU

Yes

Yes

H In It K

PATTERSON-KAYE RESORT AND SPA 705.645.4169 20-200 PAGE 57

$60-130

FGHIJPRU

Yes

Yes

VO

TABOO MUSKOKA 1.800.461.0236 Ext. 5796 PAGE 13

$150-250

AFGHOP

Yes

Yes

Ca F G H In Il P V

THE BRIARS RESORT, CONFERENCE CENTRE & SPA 905.722.3271 Ext. 2730 up to 150 $125-135 PAGE 77

ABCFGJNOPRSTU

Yes

Yes

Ca Ch F G H In It Ja P V O

WOODINGTON LAKE GOLF CLUB 905.936.9523 Ext. 232 PAGE 39

AFGIJOPRUW

Yes

Yes

Ca F G P V

Included In Price

Ceremony On Site

COPPER CREEK GOLF CLUB 905.893.3370 Ext. 202

20-200

60-300

$70-125

SOUTHEASTERN ONTARIO 

Guests

DEER CREEK GOLF & BANQUET FACILITY 905.427.7757 Ext. 300 50-540

$

$75-125

ABCFG

Yes

Outdoor Area Yes

Special Menus

F In H Ja V

TORONTO AND GTA Guests

$

Included In Price

Ceremony On Site

840-1400

$95-110

ABFGIJNOPU

Yes

Yes

Ch G H In Il K P V

CASTLEFIELD EVENT THEATRE 905.851.2200

25-1100

$79-169

ABCFGIJMNOPRSU

Yes

Yes

F G It Ja P V O

DISTILLERY EVENTS: 416-203-2363

80-300

$2,500-22,000

AIJNROP

Yes

Yes

Ca Ch F G In It Ja K P V O



Outdoor Area

Special Menus

ATLANTIS 416.260.8000

• ARCHEO 416-203-2363 • THE FERMENTING CELLAR 416-203-2363

AIJNROP

Ca Ch F G In It Ja K P V O

AIJNROP

Ca Ch F G In It Ja K P V O

AIJNROP

Ca Ch F G In It Ja K P V O

• THE LOFT 416-203-2363

HILTON TORONTO/MARKHAM SUITES CONFERENCE CENTRE & SPA 905.470.8500 Ext. 2046 10-1,200 $90-120 ABFJRWCGOSTB

Yes

Yes

H K Ch In

THE EGLINTON GRAND 416.485.5900 THE OLD MILL INN AND SPA 416.236.2641

18 | Wedding Essentials 2 014

240-400

$115-126

ABFGIJNOPRSU

Yes

No

Ch G H In Il K P V

12-650

$99-138

ABFRCOU

Yes

Yes

H It P

Ca – Caribbean Ch – Chinese

SPECIAL MENUS

F – French G – Greek

H – Halal In – Indian

It – Italian J – Jamaican

K – Kosher P – Portuguese

V – Vegan O – Other

INCLUDED IN PRICE A. B. C. D.

E. F. G. H.

Dinner wine Champagne toast Chair covers Disc jockey

I. J. K. L.

Wedding cake Hors d’oeuvres Bridal suite Gift for couple

Late-night buffet Non-alcoholic punch Limousine Engagement photo

M. N. O. P.

Chocolate fountain Sweet table Limited bar included Tasting for two

Q. R. S. T.

U. In-house wedding co-ordinator V. Wedding invitations W. Centrepieces

Valet parking for two Late night coffee/tea Wine and fruit for bridal suite Breakfast

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO Page



Guests

$

Included In Price

Ceremony On Site

Outdoor Area

Special Menus

ANCASTER MILL 905.648.1828

18-205

$89-150

AIQFJNRGOUP

Yes

Yes

BANQUET ROYALE LTD. 905.238.5335

80-250

$69-99

ABCFGIJNOPQRUW

No

Yes

H It K P V O

BENMILLER INN & SPA PAGE 80 1.800.265.1711

10-120

$39-60

NRWGUPT

Yes

Yes

Ch G It V Other-Celieac

BEST WESTERN PLUS STONERIDGE INN & CONFERENCE CENTRE 519.652.6022 Ext. 575 10-200 $98-115 AIMFRCGOUPT

No

Yes

�V Other-Custom

CAMBRIDGE MILL 519.648.1828 Ext. 2

24-200

$89-150

AIFJNRGOUP

Yes

Yes

CARLISLE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 289.795.0426

50-200

$99-250

ABCFGIJNOPRSU

Yes

Yes

G H It P V

CENTURY PINES GOLF CLUB 289.795.0426

50-200

$99-250

ABCFGIJNOPRSU

Yes

Yes

G H It P V

up to 375

wknd rental

O

No

Yes

AIMQBFJNRWCGOSUDPT

No

Yes

Ca F G H In It P V

COWAN PARK BANQUET HALL 519.421.0030 Ext. 34

DELTA LONDON ARMOURIES HOTEL 519.640.5054 20-180 FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON LONDON 519.681.0680 Ext. 8208 50-500

$30-140

ABFJNRWCGOUHPT

Yes

Yes

VO

GRAND METROPOLITAN OF MISSISSAUGA 905.624.4009 168-500

$60-86

ABFGIJNOPRSU

Yes

Yes

Ch G H In It K P V

GRAND VICTORIAN CONVENTION CENTRE 647.990.8468 50-600

$98-189

ABFGIJNOPR

Yes

Yes

Ca Ch F G H In It Ja K P V O

HESSENLAND COUNTRY INN 1.866.543.7736

10-180

$57-125

ABFJRGOUPT

Yes

Yes

V Other-German

KURTZ ORCHARDS 905.468.2937 PAGE 87

100-300

$100-200

FJNRP

Yes

Yes

Ca Ch F G H In It Ja K P V

LIONHEAD GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 905.455.8816

80-400

$99-160

ABCFGHIMR

Yes

Yes

H In K V, Vegetarian

MOHAWK INN & CONFERENCE CENTRE 905.854.2277 20-130

$35-100

OUHP

Yes

Yes

NORTHRIDGE MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE 519.756.6345 Ext. 211 50-160

$30-50

AIBFJNRCGOSUDP

Yes

Yes

It V

ROYAL NIAGARA GOLF CLUB 289.795.0426

50-200

$99-250

ABCFGIJNOPRSU

Yes

Yes

G H It P V

ROYAL ONTARIO GOLF CLUB 289.795.0426

50-250

�$99-250

ABCFGIJNOPRSU

Yes

Yes

G H It P V

SPENCER'S AT THE WATERFRONT 905.633.7494 Ext 2

150

$99-150

AIQFJNROUP

Yes

Yes

THE STRATFORD COUNTRY CLUB 519.271.4212 Ext.231 PAGE 51

10-165

$62-80

AWUP

No

Yes

VO

THE WINDERMERE MANOR 519.858.1414 Ext. 432

80-120

$90-100

AGOUHT

No

Yes

V Other-Custom

Yes

Yes

F

Yes

Yes

WESTOVER INN 519.284.2977 WHISTLE BEAR GOLF CLUB 519.650.2327 Ext. 2

$45.00 170-440

$79-136

AIFJNRGOU

Wedding Essentials 20 1 4 | 19

Wedding Wisdom

Just the right fit

Y

ou will probably require three-fittings the initial fitting when your dress arrives, the second to correct any mistakes and a third to ensure that the gown fits perfectly. The final fitting takes place close to your wedding day. Don’t be shocked if you find that you have gained or lost weight during the hectic wedding planning period.

When having your gown fitted, be sure to wear the same undergarments or foundation garments that you plan to wear the day of your wedding.

These items can be just as important to the fit of your gown as the alterations. Aptly named, they are the foundation that you build on to make your gown fit perfectly, allowing you to look your very best.

Some gowns require particular undergarments to fit and look great.

Your bridal salon will be able to give you guidance here. If your body type is difficult to address in fitting a gown properly, consider selecting a wedding gown with a corset tieback. This fit feature reduces alteration costs and increases the comfort of your gown.

Bring the shoes you will be wearing or shoes with the same heel height to the salon.

Be forewarned: don’t be shocked if your wedding gown is a size or two bigger than your usual dress size. Wedding gowns generally run smaller than regular wardrobe sizes. If your dress looks great, dont worry about size; that’s just a number. WE

20 | Wedding Essentials 2014

Wedding Essentials 20 1 4 | 21

a real-life wedding

Heather & Scott SILVER LININGS IN WEDDING DAY CLOUDS AND RAIN

When a couple pictures a perfect outdoor summer wedding, the sky is blue and the sun is shining. The mere thought of rainy weather dampens the mood and creates anxiety.

For Heather Smith and Scott Vankoughnett, thunder, lightning and pouring rain were uninvited guests at their cottage-country nuptials. Yet not only the newlyweds but also their friends and family describe the celebration as perfect!

PHOTOS: RICK VAN DER VALK PHOTOGRAPHY

22 | Wedding Essentials 2 014

THE BEGINNING The couple met through friends. Their first date was casual— cones from an ice cream shop and a walk along the beach.

They hit it off and dated long distance while in university.

The courtship was a long one—it would be eleven years before they got engaged.

The proposal was a surprise for Heather. Scott was on a business trip and asked her to meet him so they could spend the afternoon together. When she opened the door to his hotel room, she saw roses everywhere, champagne in an ice bucket and Scott on one knee holding a gorgeous ring. They saved some of those rose petals and had them on the altar as they were taking their wedding vows.

SINGING IN THE RAIN The wedding ceremony took place on the grounds of the groom’s family cottage, located on an island near Parry Sound.

The clouds were rolling in as the groom and groomsmen, family and guests were boating in to the ceremony site.

Their wedding photographer relates that the overcast skies changed for the worse, just when Heather was part way up the aisle. Mother Nature’s dramatic fanfare—rolling thunder, a bolt of lightning, and rain—didn’t faze the bride or groom or anyone else! Heather, wearing a deep V-necked backless lace gown with a trumpet silhouette, brought her own sunshine

Wedding Essentials 20 1 4 | 23

a real-life wedding

Heather loves that “Scott can make me laugh through anything. His humour makes me love him more each day. The more he smiles, the more I smile. Isn’t that what life’s about? Love and laughter?”.

Scott loves how Heather encourages him “to pursue my dreams, even when they seem impossible”.

Heather’s advice to brides-to-be: “Don’t worry about it. Something will happen to change it. I made lists upon lists and had this perfect vision in my head of what I wanted. Of course about 50% of it came true, but that’s okay, because I had the best day with all the people I love.”

Scott advises grooms: “Enjoy it! You are only going to do it once, hopefully. Get involved in the decision-making process.

Surprisingly enough your fiancée will appreciate it and may even use some of your ideas!”.

No one gave them any marriage advice. That lack of advice means a lot to them. “We’ve been together since high school, over a decade ago. What we do and have works for us, and people see that. By not giving advice, they’re saying we don’t need to change anything— because we finally got married!”

24 | Wedding Essentials 2 014

aura as she beamed, approaching her groom.

Scott’s favourite memory of the day was “literally the calm before the storm, waiting to see Heather appear from the cottage. It couldn’t have been more perfect when she stepped out and came down the aisle to me”.

Heather’s choice of sunshine yellow strapless cocktail dresses for her attendants proved to be ideal for the day, although she had considered light grey. “I’m so happy I decided on that summery, bright colour because it really popped against the grey background of the cloudy skies.”

Some couples can say there wasn’t a dry eye in the house for their weddings, but Heather and Scott’s memories of their day include everyone getting drenched by the rain. They cherish taking their vows among “people who loved, cared and supported us enough to sit through a storm. Not a single person left”.

Wedding photos show the bride and groom and bridal party embracing the day, laughing and having fun in the summer showers.

a real-life wedding INTIMATE DETAILS Heather and Scott’s wedding had many special details that made their day uniquely their own.

Heather’s grandmothers couldn’t be at the wedding so she incorporated a heart-shaped pin from her father’s mother and her maternal grandmother’s locket. It was decorated with hearts and held photos of her late grandfather and a photo of her grandmother and grandfather’s wedding day.

Heather had part of her mother’s wedding gown sewn into her bridal gown and wore a bracelet that had belonged to Scott’s late grandmother.

The couple’s love of cottages and outdoor activities was showcased by having guests sign paddles as their guest book. Their plan is to display those in their first home.

HOCKEY SCORES Hockey plays a key role in their lives. Scott’s career is related, and the duo are ardent hockey fans. Hockey scored in various ways—from the engagement shoot where they wore hockey jerseys of their favourite teams to Wayne Gretzky Estate wines served at the wedding reception.

They chose hockey pucks personalized with their names and wedding date as wedding favours. The pucks doubled as seating place cards with guest names written on the back.

The frames for table numbers were made from hockey sticks; they featured photos of Heather and Scott at the age of the table number, for example photos of each of them at the age of one for table 1, at the age of fifteen for table 15. This also proved a great icebreaker for any guests who weren’t acquainted before the wedding day.

RECEPTION FESTIVITIES Guests at the wedding told the newlyweds that they had never had so much fun at a wedding.

The dance floor was filled with everyone having a blast! Even people who had just met that day ended up dancing with everyone and having a super time. And Heather and Scott? They danced until the last guest left, enjoying every moment of the day. WE

BRIDE’S GOWN: Allure Bridal Couture C202 | Becker’s Bridal | 416.463.6601 BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: à la mode salon | 705.746.9236 GROOM’S SUIT: Custom-made from Gotstyle Menswear | 416.260.9696 FLOWERS: Roxanne Stinson | 647.926.7699 RECEPTION VENUE: Parry Sound Golf & Country Club | 705.342.5262 GUEST FAVOURS: OGP Enterprises Inc. | 905.951.7825 DJ: D & W Entertainment Group | 416.799.4223 PHOTOS: Rick Van Der Valk Photography | rickvandervalkphotography.com | 705.737.4040

26 | Wedding Essentials 2 014

Wedding Wisdom

Toast from the heart

A

good toast should be a gift, not an insult, so make it appropriate, flattering and, if possible, memorable. Exercise eloquence and wit. Consider the audience both in age and ideologies. Respectful words outweigh comedy in most cases.

A good toast has the form of a speech, but obviously in miniscule scale. Consider an introduction, a comment towards the theme of the event and finally an adieu that is well fitting to the occasion. Much more effort is required to be succinct than long-winded, so prepare your words well in advance. Practice, practice, practice if you want to sound spontaneous.

The simplest words are perceived as the most sincere. Be yourself. The best words and witticisms are your own, so forget about being reminded of something you once heard or read.

Originality is the essence of wit.

End on a positive note. A toast should always be upbeat. Lead your audience to a conclusion with a generally-accepted gesture like “Raise your glass” or “Please join me in toasting” or just a simple “Cheers” will always uplift. WE

Coffee AT WEDDINGS Sharing your love of coffee...a little or a latte...

So you love coffee...or more accurately, you’re in love with coffee! Only your spouse-to-be can raise your excitement level higher than thinking about that cuppa in your near future.

You are not alone.

According to a 2013 study released by the Canadian Coffee Association, coffee is a dominant beverage for Canadians; about twothirds of adults drank coffee the past day.

Only tap water had equally high past-day consumption!

Whether you want to go whole bean with a coffee-themed wedding or simply include a couple of coffee elements to rev up your

celebrations, you will have great fun incorporating the delectable beverage in your wedding planning.

FOR STARTERS Begin a coffee-themed wedding with a burlap bag inner “envelope” or burlap-inspired invitation...with a “love is brewing” or “love at first sip” design. For an elegant wedding, espresso-toned stationery paired with ivory or pale pink could be a perfect blend.

TO WEAR A non-traditional bride might choose a coffeecoloured bridal gown trimmed with white.

Traditionalists could opt for a coffee and ivory silk dupioni sash or belt to accent their gown.

Choices for bridesmaids’ gowns range from deepest espresso to caramel coffee tones. Two complementary tones work for bodice and skirt.

For the guys, brown suits in warm tones are making a strong comeback in 2014.

DÉCOR The bean rocks! Nest candles in coffee beans (use stale beans for this purpose!); as the candles warm the beans they will release coffee fragrance. Vintage coffee grinders and coffee pots make unique centrepiece flower holders that will also be conversation starters.

FOOD & DRINK Incorporate coffee in menu items. Coffee-rubs or marinades for meat, desserts like coffee ice cream or gelato, tiramisu, panna cotta with coffee-caramel sauce, coffee brownies, mocha mousse and coffee macarons are heavenly.

Treat guests to a coffee bar...perhaps with a custom roast for the celebrations. Hire baristas to create coffee delights for guests.

FAVOUR FUN Bags of coffee beans make memorable guest favours. Nick Spector of Everyday Gourmet Coffee Roasters in Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market will roast coffee beans and supply them in bulk for you to package and personalize. Toronto’s Dark City Coffee Company’s owner, David Thompson, takes pride in hand-crafted, custom daily bean roasts—“the freshest you can have without roasting it yourself!”—and suggests a 1/4 lb. or so for a guest favour.

Have a coffee favour bar with several different coffee bean blends in glass containers along with coffee scoops and private label bags for guests to help themselves. WE

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Wedding Wisdom

Putting his best foot forward

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note to the groom and groomsmen: Never, ever wear brown shoes with a black belt or vice versa. The colour of one’s shoes should always match—or at least go with—the colour of your belt. Those colours, by the way, don't extend beyond black and brown when it comes to formal occasions.

Additionally, your formal pants have loops for a reason, so make sure you wear a belt.

You know enough not to wear sneakers with other formal attire. But even shoes you might wear to a bar or to the office might not be formal enough for some very high-class occasions.

For such events, you should have at least one pair of ultra-formal shoes that you splurged on a little. These shoes will last a long time, since they will probably be used less than the other shoes in

your closet. A really nice pair of formal shoes will also give your look that subtle added elegance that other men at the event might be lacking.

For any formal occasion, your socks should be ultra-conservative. Other than muted, neutral solids, your options don't extend beyond very subtle patterns, like tiny dots of a similar shade. The colours of the sock should also match your ensemble; you don't want them to stand out.

They should be long enough so that if you cross your legs, the skin of your ankle and calf remain unexposed. Moreover, formal socks should be relatively thin. While ultra-thin nylon socks aren't totally necessary, your socks shouldn't be cushiony or have excess fabric that sticks out of the shoe. WE

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Fashion Passion A wedding gown is much more than a beautiful dress. Her perfect gown reflects a vision of herself that a bride has cherished for a long time. The moment when the bride is first seen in her wedding gown is very emotional and is often greeted by tears, including her own. Meet these lovely Ontario women who have transformed themselves into princess brides.

Bonnie

BRIDE: Bonnie Granata Nunnari GOWN: Customized Adda| Ines Di Santo | inesdisanto.com | 866.899.INES HEADPIECE: Maria Elena | Vera Wang | 416.927.9094 HAIR & MAKEUP: Picaso Studios | 905.851.9106 PHOTO: Zach Rose | The Driftwood | thedriftwood.ca | 905.716.5109

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Wedding Wisdom

Love all around ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR BRIDAL PARTY

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ou may never have written as many cards in your whole life as you will do over the course of your wedding preparations! It is imperative that you don’t forget the thank you cards. Good manners dictate that you send a thank you for each engagement party and bridal shower gift you receive, as well as for each wedding gift. Be sure your engagement and shower cards are mailed prior to your wedding date, or you’ll be drowning in paperwork after your honeymoon. (The upside is that if you keep good records, you’ll have a terrific Christmas card list for years to come!)

A gift for him?

Sometimes, a smitten groom will surprise his bride with a small token of love either the night before or the morning of the wedding. Similarly, it is not unknown for the bride to do the same for her groom. As simple as a card telling him how much you’re looking forward to seeing him at the altar, to a bottle of his favourite cologne he can wear that day or even something more expensive like an engraved watch—the choice (and thus, his heart) is yours. WE Wedding Essentials 20 1 4 | 31

fashion passion

Masha BRIDE: Masha Koyen GOWN: #1951 Mori Lee by Madeline Gardner GOWN SHOP: Bridal Suite | 905.597.7685 HAIR & MAKEUP: AK makeup & hair | 416.471.0465 VENUE: Eaton Hall | 905.833.4500 PHOTO: George Kash | IsaacImage | isaacimage.com | 416.500.2682

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Wedding Wisdom

Treat yourself to a spa day

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fabulous treat for the bride-to-be is a spa day. There are many spas in southern Ontario and many salons provide spa services too. On the beauty treatments checklist, say no to facials the week before the ceremony. They can leave your skin blotchy. Say yes to a massage and other relaxing body treatments that are just what a busy bride-to-be needs.

You can easily treat yourself to similar beauty treatments without leaving your house. Start your home spa with a relaxing bubble bath. Put on restful music and light a candle to create a soothing mood. After your bath, moisturize your body, cuddle into your housecoat and do your nails. Be sure to have the nail polish on hand for touchups on the morning of your wedding WE

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fashion passion

Sarabjit BRIDE: Sarabjit Kaur Sandhu LEHENGA DESIGN: Custom design by bride FABRIC & STITCHING: Geetanjali Silk Store Patiala, India | 0175.2206823 HAIR & MAKEUP: Meenu Bridal Beauty | 905.781.6111 PHOTO LOCATION: Chinguacousy Park, Brampton PHOTO: Kuljit Rehal Creative Vision kuljitrehal.com | 416.888.9287

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Wedding Wisdom

The Ring Bearer

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raditionally the ring bearer has been a boy, but today girls also perform this ceremonial task. If your choice is to have a female do the job, she should be dressed like a flower girl. Make sure to choose a child who possesses the maturity to cope with the processional. The ring bearer’s parents are responsible for the child’s outfit and need to ensure that he/she is wellrested. The ring bearer’s job is to carry a cushion with two fake rings attached to it. (The best man will have the real rings.) He walks down the aisle in front of the flower girl or beside her and—if he is mature enough—stands with the wedding party during the ceremony.

Alternatively, he can stay at the front until the bride and groom meet and then sit in the first pew or join his parents. If he sits during the ceremony he should not rejoin the recessional.

The ring bearer can participate in the receiving line but should sit with his parents at the reception. WE

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fashion passion

Karina BRIDE: Karina Johnson GOWN: Mori Lee #1803 | Bella’s Brides | 647.435.9085 HAIR: Corey James | 416.731.1819 MAKEUP: Meaghan Bell-Gregory | 647.981.3695 FLOWERS: Decor with Grandeur | 905.569.9741 PHOTO: Steve Arnone | Skylite Images Fine Art Photo Studio skyliteimages.com | 905.660.5483

fashion passion

Mahwish BRIDE: Mahwish Khawaja CHURIDAR PAJAMA WITH LONG SHIRT: Designed by Nasreen Quamar, Marium Waqas HAIR & MAKEUP: Beauty Concept by Shirley Wu | 905.232.6978 VENUE: Apollo Convention Centre | 905.670.8009 PHOTO: MPSG Weddings | mpsgweddings.ca | 647.692.6774

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Wedding Wisdom

Mix it up

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ou’ve hired your disc jockey or live performers and given them a good description of the feeling you want to evoke for your ceremony and reception.

Don’t be afraid to mix it up a little bit to surprise your guests of all ages and create a festive party atmosphere. A DJ or band leader can judge the mood of the crowd and play music accordingly. You need to make it clear if you want quiet dinner music as well as dance beats.

Consider your guests’ musical tastes as well as your own.

You don’t want to be dancing with yourself out there. Ensure your DJ has agreed to play a selection that includes some latin, swing, R&B, country and classic rock. Ask him to play songs from every decade to cater to both the young and old.

A little Hannah Montana won’t kill you, and your flower girls will think you’re the coolest bride ever. A few cultural standards (Greek, Italian, Polish) will tell your older guests you respect them enough to play music they can enjoy.

Acknowledge your parents by playing “their” song or an old favourite, and the gesture will be noticed and appreciated by them. WE

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fashion passion

Laura

BRIDE: Laura D’Alessio GOWN: Custom Gown & Veil | Ines Di Santo | inesdisanto.com | 866.899.INES HAIR: Ladylyn Gool | 416.938.2313 MAKEUP: Lisa Spadafora | 416.937.1444 FLOWERS: Extravaganza Florist | 905.850.3927 PHOTO: Krista Fogel | Ikonica | ikonica.ca | 416.259.6795

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fashion passion

Loni BRIDE: Loni Kelly GOWN: International Fashion Group | #1458 Private Label by G GOWN SHOP: Bridal Creations | 613.546.9149 HAIR & MAKEUP: F.A.B. Hair & Aesthetics | 613.549.2194 PHOTO: Ruth Stenson | Ruth Stenson Photography ruthstensonphotography.com | 613.273.6141

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a real-life wedding

Sahrah & Aaron AROUND-THE-WORLD WEDDING AND KOREAN TEA CEREMONY For a couple whose careers are firmly entrenched in the digital age, it is no surprise that Sahrah Lee and Aaron Oliver discovered each other online. The virtual meetings resulted in a casual pub date on the first warm day after a very cold winter.

ICE-MAKER TO ICE-BREAKER Aaron’s eternally-optimistic nature led him to choose to wear no sweater over his t-shirt. Before long he was shivering. Ironically the cold temperature warmed things up in more ways than one, as the couple retreated inside for hot coffee and more conversation. It was then that Sahrah decided to say yes to a second date.

PHOTOS: SWEETHEART EMPIRE

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THE PROPOSAL Aaron chose the time and place because of Sahrah’s love for the Group of Seven. A special exhibit at McMichael Gallery was the lead-in, followed by a walk on a nearby trail where Aaron popped the question.

THE WEDDING The duo’s mid-summer wedding took place in Toronto’s historic St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church with its magnificent stained glass windows and soaring arches.

The bride’s vision of a romantic summer wedding was complemented by her choice of an ivory washed silk organza bridal gown with soft layered flutter overskirts and the selection of a light mint colour for her attendants’ chiffon gowns. Floral bouquets of soft pinks, greens and ivories in a variety of flowers and succulents echoed the pastel tones of the gowns.

Sahrah and Aaron both laughed as the sound of The Beatles’ All You Need Is Love, played on the church organ, filled the church for their recessional.

KOREAN TEA CEREMONY Sahrah’s cultural heritage was showcased with a traditional pyebaek, the Korean wedding tea ceremony that symbolizes the acceptance of the bride into the groom’s family. Ceremonial attire and customs figured prominently in this time-honoured ritual.

WEDDING CELEBRATIONS A shared passion for travel led Sahrah and Aaron to incorporate a travel theme along with the bride’s love of the early 1900s. Hot air balloons, maps, globes, vintage suitcases and other travel memorabilia helped create a travel-around-the-world atmosphere. An old-fashioned round-top travel trunk served as the gift and card box.

A world map functioned as the guest seating chart, with tables named for fascinating cities on the planet.

Each place setting had a mason jar with moustache or red lip props that made mixing and mingling fun for everyone, including guests who previously had not met.

A photo booth with travel items and vintage accessories was a highlight for guests who vamped and hammed it up to the max. Sahrah and Aaron changed into traditional Korean garb for some of the photo booth pix.

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a real-life wedding

Sahrah’s fondest memories of the day are many—guests blowing bubbles as she exited the church with her groom with everyone laughing and having such a good time; the words and advice during the Korean tea ceremony; the speeches at the reception when not only she and Aaron were crying, but the whole room, “because the speeches were so moving and heartwarming”.

Aaron’s fondest memory is “the Korean tea ceremony. Having our family come up and share their words of wisdom—the moment was something I will never forget”.

Sahrah loves Aaron’s “sense of humour and his ability to be optimistic and look at the positive things in life”.

Aaron loves Sahrah’s “caring nature, strong values and vibrant smile. She makes me want to be a better person”.

Sahrah cautions brides-to-be that “wedding planning can be allconsuming and all you think about and talk about, which can be stressful. Step away from the planning now and then to spend time with friends, family and most importantly, with your fiancé”.

Aaron suggests that grooms “get involved in the wedding planning and enjoy the process where possible. It’s a great opportunity to work on a project together and build a new kind of chemistry”.

Parents and co-workers shared great advice: “Keep talking and listening to each other. Always remember what is the most important and do not fret about the little things.”

FABULOUS & FUN FOODS An elegant dinner buffet featured multicultural appetizers—mini Yorkshire puddings with sirloin roast beef topped with horseradish cream, Peking duck in lettuce wraps with hoisin sauce, smoked Ontario eggplant with roasted balsamic fig and Niagara prosciutto crostini.

The food-from-around-the-globe menu continued with main course dishes such as rainbow snapper, kalbi (Korean barbequed beef short ribs), stir-fry, gnocchi (Italian potato pillows), arugula salad and spicy chicken bulgogi (a Korean grilled marinated savory dish).

Dessert cupcakes doubled as a decorative element in the yellow and green table centrepieces, a visual and gustatory treat for guests.

After an evening of photo-booth fun, dancing and lots of laughter, guests were ready to enjoy late-night treats from the poutine table and a sweet table laden with tantalizing candies.

THE HONEYMOON Sahrah and Aaron honeymooned in exotic Thailand and Korea. Both had long wanted to visit the amazing temples of Bangkok and the beaches of Koh Samui; the added day trips to local sites and sampling local food were bonuses. Aaron was introduced to Sahrah’s cultural background in Korea as well as meeting her extended family.

BRIDE’S GOWN: “Norma” by Watters | Felichia Bridal | 647.350.5559 HEADPIECE: David Dunkley Fine Millinery | 416.538.0998 BRIDE’S HAIR & MAKEUP: Christine Cho | Cho Beauty | 416.918.4275 GROOM’S ATTIRE: Ike Behar from Andrew’s Formals | 416.783.8181 FLOWERS: Scarlet’s Table | 416.970.0726 RECEPTION VENUE: Berkeley Field House | 416.361.9666 DJ: Music Unlimited DJ Service | 416.710.2330 PHOTOS: Kate O’Connor | Sweetheart Empire | sweetheartempire.com | 416.878.3802

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The Pyebaek SAHRAH & AARON’S KOREAN WEDDING CEREMONY After their wedding ceremony, Sahrah and Aaron took part in a traditional Korean wedding ceremony, called a pyebaek or paebaek. The pyebaek is filled with centuries-old symbolism. It represents the acceptance of the bride as a new member of the groom’s family.

Dressed in colourful Korean wedding attire, a hanbok for the bride and gwanbok for the groom, in a style worn by long-ago royalty, the couple approached a table filled with ceremonial foods and two wooden ducks. The wedding ducks symbolize a long and happy marriage.

The elders of the couple’s families sat in front of a very ornate painted screen behind the table. As a sign of respect to their parents, Sahrah and Aaron bowed deeply and knelt.

Tea was poured for the parents and as each drank, they offered marriage advice for the couple. Other family members came up later to share their words of wisdom.

In a time-honoured tradition, dates and chestnuts were thrown by the parents. The couple tried to catch them with the bride’s richly embroidered white sash. The number caught is said to foretell the number of children the couple will have—the dates symbolize girls and the chestnuts symbolize boys.

As part of the ceremony, old customs to test the groom took place. Aaron carried Sahrah on his back around the table to prove that the groom is capable of taking care of the bride. He also carried her mother on his back to thank her for raising such a wonderful young woman.

For everyone involved, the couple’s pyebaek was a highlight of the wedding celebrations.

Sahrah and Aaron, thank you for giving us all a glimpse into this beautiful and meaningful Korean wedding tea ceremony. The images and story behind it transport us far away from the modern day through a tradition in which countless bridal couples have participated over centuries. WE

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a real-life wedding

Stacey & Ryan FROM WEDDING TO ROMANCE TO WEDDING IN JAMAICA Sometimes life presents love where and when we least expect it. That was certainly the case for Stacey Evoy and Ryan Oniel Henry. Stacey was attending a friend’s wedding in Jamaica a few years ago when she met Ryan, at a time when she was “least looking for, or expecting to find, love”.

However, Cupid usually doesn’t always work on the schedule we expect!

The girl from the northern clime of Ontario and the guy from the laid-back, sunny southern Caribbean hit it off from the get-go; he was delighted by her sense of humour and loved how she could make him laugh. A long-distance phone relationship, followed by many two-week visits, made them realize that theirs was much more than a deep friendship. It was love—the real deal.

Both Stacey and Ryan share very strong family values. It was also very important to each that they agreed on a similar parenting style for their children.

After a long-distance courtship of two years, Stacey took her two daughters to meet Ryan, who asked them if he could marry their mom. They had got to know him during the two-week trip and he had passed the test for them. They said “yes”. Stacey said “yes” during a romantic candlelit dinner à deux on the beach.

The couple exchanged wedding vows in Jamaica. With Stacey’s background in event planning for a major hotel chain, she became aware early on that the best way to make the wedding of her dreams come true was to take everything with her from Ontario. Several carefully-packed suitcases carried not only attire, but bouquets, décor items and guest favours as she jetted from wintry Ontario to the sunny Caribbean.

As centrepieces, Stacey used crystal bead bouquets made by her father. Later she gave one to each of her bridal attendants as a keepsake.

Stacey’s family and friends travelled from Canada to attend the wedding, enjoying wedding celebrations and getting to know Ryan’s family and friends.

At the reception, everyone noshed on local Jamaican food, including jerk chicken wings, curried goat, jerk pork, jerk chicken, coconut rice and fried plantains. The evening celebration was full of energy—with sixty wedding guests enjoying great music and dancing for hours under a starlit southern sky.

PHOTOS: STILETTO PHOTOGRAPHY

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Stacey loves Ryan’s “firm values and beliefs...and he just has a way about him. He would do anything for me and treats me so wonderfully...and we laugh and joke every day”.

Ryan loves that he married “a person whom I really love and respect. She has lots of love in her heart and is filled with love and laughter...that’s where I want to be forever. She means the world to me. We have a sweet little family together, Stacey’s two daughters and my son”.

Stacey’s fondest memory was “the actual marriage and family ceremony that included our children. We wanted them to feel special and be a part of our day. I loved that people who came from Canada had the opportunity to see a wedding in another country”.

Ryan recalls several outstanding memories, especially “when Stacey came down the aisle and I first saw her. We stood facing each other and the Pastor was speaking, but it seemed like it was only the two of us in a private, surreal moment. I loved how everybody had a blast, all of our friends and family dancing and having fun together. And I loved how our wedding photos captured our feelings that day”. WE

BRIDE’S GOWN: Galina Collection David’s Bridal | 519.681.2839 BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS: Elizabeth Noel | 519.434.3122 BOUQUETS: Bryan’s Crystal Bouquets | 519.850.9699 PHOTOS: Sarah Keys | Stiletto Photography stilettophotography.net | 519.639.9103

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Wedding Wisdom

Invitation Basics 101

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electing the paper and design of your invitations is an enjoyable creative process for brides. Remember that you are conveying key information to your guests, so be sure that the important facts are easy to spot.

GET THE NAMES RIGHT. Double check spelling and be sure to include titles like “Doctor” to your addressees. Older couples prefer receiving mail addressed to “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith” but younger married women may feel slighted in which case it’s acceptable to use both people’s names (“Mr. J. Smith and Mrs. S. Smith”) on the envelope. If they use different last names, include those. Single guests can have “and guest” added to their invitation if you’d like them to bring a date.

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PROOFREAD EVERYTHING. A typo on the address or location can cause big problems if your guests can’t find you.

INCLUDE A MAP. Pretend you are coming in from out of town. How would you find your wedding locations? Be precise and detailed by including a clearly labeled map with driving directions everyone can follow.

RETURN CARD. It’s expected that you will provide a small, self-addressed, stamped return envelope in your invitation so that your guests can respond easily. Don’t shirk on the stamp or else you’ll find you will have a very low return rate.

NO LABELS. It is customary for wedding invitation envelopes to be hand-written.

While time-consuming, your personal touch is expected and appreciated, so brush up your penmanship and get started early.

DON’T MENTION GIFTS. It’s a mistake to make any reference to gifts or gift registries in your invitation. That’s right, not even to say, “No gifts”. Any comment makes your guests think a gift is required, when it certainly is not. The purpose of the wedding invitation is to invite people to your celebration, not to point out the best place to buy your china pattern. WE

Lifestyle matters

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ou don’t have to buy the biggest house on the block. When you visit your loan manager, he will tell you that you’re approved for a certain amount.

Many young couples go out and then buy the biggest house they can find at the top end of their budget. Wait a minute. Do you want to be locked into a lovely house, staring at the walls because you now can’t afford to do anything else? Whatever range your banker suggests, stay in the lower end of it.

Not all bankers are altruistic and won’t care if you don’t have money for enjoyable lifestyle activities like annual vacations or expensive hobbies that make life worth living. Instead, you may want to buy a moderately-sized home with a comfortable mortgage so you have a little extra financial wiggle room for the fun stuff.

PROPERTY TAXES Don't let the thrill of buying your new home be dampened by forgetting about property taxes. This is a major ongoing cost to consider when purchasing any new home. Start off on the right track by deciding which method of payment is right for you and your budget.

BUYING RESALE When buying a home, you have the option of paying your property taxes through the municipality or having your financial institution pay taxes on your behalf. The

bank would collect funds from each mortgage payment, save them in a property tax account and pay the municipality on your behalf each quarter or half a year depending on the region. To ensure there are enough funds in the tax account to cover the first tax bill, most financial institutions will do a tax hold-back. This means that the financial institution would estimate the amount of the first bill and subtract the amount that would be collected in the tax account between the closing of the mortgage and the tax bill due date. The shortfall is what is held back from the mortgage advance and deposited into the tax account.

BUYING NEW For newly-constructed homes, the property taxes may have not yet been assessed for the area even though the homes have been completed. If they have yet to be set, you will only be paying taxes on the value of the land. The municipal assessment can take up to 3 years. Therefore, you will eventually be responsible for taxes on the difference between the land value and the house value since the date you took possession of the home.

It's a good idea to find out what the property taxes are in the area by contacting the municipality. This way you can budget the right amount of money as soon as you move in. WE Wedding Essentials 20 1 4 | 51

beauty

Looking

SKIN & BEAUTY PRODUCTS TO HELP YOU LOOK YOUR BEST

GREAT Lancôme

LIP LOVER Lancôme’s new Lip Lover line is touted to provide colour, shine and care in one enticing product. Shades are divided into two colour families—Basic Chic and Creative Chic in tones that range from the delicate pink of Rose d’Eau to the intense purple of Bordeaux Tempo. Each colour family has its own fragrance: Basic Chic shades’ fragrance suggests rose petals with a hint of vanilla and raspberry while Creative Chic shades incorporate heart notes of rose with iris and violent accents. Inviting serial kisses, each features an arrow-shaped applicator to hug lips with precision.

CeraVe

Lise Watier

FACIAL MOISTURING LOTIONS CeraVe is expanding their product line, developed with dermatologists, to include two facial moisturizing lotions, one with an SPF 30 for day and another for night use. For normal to oily skin, each Facial Moisturing Lotion has a ceramide-rich formula that provides essential ingredients for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. They also contain hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which may help reduce redness due to dry skin. The goal for the Facial Moisturing Lotion AM with SPF 30 is to protect your skin from the sun while rebuilding and restoring your skin’s protective outer lipid layer. Non-greasy, it can be used under your makeup. The PM lotion is designed to increase the skin’s ability to attract, hold and distribute moisture, penetrating deep into the layers of the stratum corneum to help replace deficient levels of key lipids necessary for an effective skin barrier.

IMAGINE COLLECTION The Limited Edition Spring 2014 Imagine Collection from Lise Watier Cosmétiques has been created to be soft, airy and dreamlike. Imagine Blush is a richly pigmented mosaic of multiple pink-toned blush designed to enhance the look of the cheeks for a fresh spring look.

Quatuor Imagine Eyeshadow Quartet contains four warm and cool shades in a dreamscape compact. The cream powder formula offers a creamy texture with densely pigmented colours for long wear and a silky finish. The Magic Lip Colour Enhancer uses Advanced Colour-Refresh technology to enhance the natural colour of lips, depending on the skin’s PH. The balm goes on clear and, in a less than a minute, transforms into a personalized pink shade for each wearer. Its paraben-free and preservative-free formula contains mango butter to keep lips hydrated and protected.

Sephora + Pantone Universe RUSH LUSTER CHEEK SWEEP Oooh! Aaah! Oooh-la-la! This exclusive, limited-edition blush has been created in the Sephora + Pantone Colour of the Year—Radiant Orchid, accompanied by two co-ordinating luminizers. Formulated without parabens, sulfates or phthalates, the set includes Radiant Orchid Blush, Bridal Rose Luminizer and Spanish Villa Luminizer. Apply the intense Radiant Orchid hue and top with either luminizer for a shimmery, iridescent glow.

The streamlined case has a mirror inside for ease of application.

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Wedding Wisdom

Things to consider while choosing your honeymoon destination

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hoosing and planning your honeymoon should be the fun part of your wedding planning process. A honeymoon is like any other vacation, and you really don't want anything to go wrong. As long as you keep a few simple things in mind your honeymoon should be a wonderful, romantic experience.

The most important things to consider when choosing your honeymoon: THE TIME OF YEAR. You should be aware of the weather, crowds, and the cost associated with your destination choices at the time of your honeymoon and narrow your choices accordingly.

WHAT THE DESTINATION HAS TO OFFER. Imagine arriving at your honeymoon resort only to discover that your dream of eating breakfast in bed every day will not happen because the hotel does not offer much in the way of room service. Even if you plan to do nothing but sit on the beach for a week, make

sure that you know what your hotel has to offer. Another idea is to choose a resort that has activities that you and your spouse like or can learn together. Scuba diving certification is very popular with newlyweds.

HOW YOU’LL GET THERE. If you are the type of person that would prefer three to six hours in a limousine or a single airplane flight then don't book a honeymoon that will require you to fly on three planes and two boats just to get there.

YOUR ROOM. Since you will probably be spending more than half of your honeymoon in it, your room should be exactly what you want. Almost all hotels and resorts now offer honeymoon suites, and some resorts have honeymoon bungalows or cabins that are even more private. It is also a good idea to try to get as much information as possible about the location of your room. For example, make sure that your room is not directly over an open air

band that plays until 3 am each night. (You would be surprised how often this happens.)

HONEYMOON PACKAGES AND UPGRADES. Honeymoon packages can include free champagne, massage, flowers, extra nights free, and a free upgrade to a suite. Free upgrades will be readily available if you decide to travel to a destination during its low season.

CALL TO CONFIRM EVERYTHING. Make sure to call someone who is actually at the resort to confirm all the details of your trip. Then get them to fax or email you written confirmation.

That way, if something is not right once you arrive at the resort, you can talk directly to someone you have already spoken with. If something does go wrong at your hotel, contact the manager and calmly present your problem and ask for it to be fixed. More often than not the hotel will do their best to make you happy.

At any good resort, the phrase "we are on our honeymoon" can often move mountains. WE Wedding Essentials 20 1 4 | 53

beauty Vitabath SUGAR SCRUBS Vitabath’s ultra-moisturizing Exfoliating Sugar Scrubs invite you to gently buff away dry, rough skin and bring out your glow. The fine-grained, natural sugar-based formula with sunflower, coconut and macadamia seed oils has been created to leave skin feeling silky smooth and intensely hydrated. Vitamins A, B3, C and E help promote glowing, radiant skin. The tube is designed for less mess in the shower and to help keep water out. Available in Fresh Citrus Twist, Original Spring Green, Spa Skin Therapy and Plus for Dry Skin, to match your mood and skin type.

Lancôme BLUSH SUBTIL PALETTE Check out this sleek Blush Subtil Palette that promises face sculpting, reviving and illuminating with all-in-one sculpt, blush and highlighter in a three-colour powder blusher. Inspired by the techniques of famous make-up artists, the product includes instructions for creating that coveted professionallooking, finished look. Four different colour harmonies are designed to give a shade for every woman. Choose from Pêche Savvy, Rose Flush, Nectar Lace and Plum Elegance.

Sephora + Pantone Universe RADIANT PAINT GLOSS TRIO This set of three complementary lip lacquers is inspired by the Sephora + Pantone Colour of the Year—Radiant Orchid. The three shades of gloss are Radiant Orchid, Lilac and Nude. This limited edition is formulated without parabens, sulfates or phthalates. The lip lacquers can be worn separately or together to create an ombre effect and complete a trendy look for 2014. WE

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Wedding Wisdom

Quality over Quantity CREATE A POLISHED LOOK THAT WILL WOW YOUR GUESTS

S

ome venues come equipped with items like chair covers and these may even be included in the reception price. Caution: Make sure they are in good condition and in a colour you like. If you need to rent: STEP 1: Decide on colour. Most rental services carry multiple colours, so you're not stuck with white unless that's what you want.

STEP 2: Consider the style of your wedding. Plain box covers may be all that you need to spruce up the chairs at an informal wedding, but for a formal gala wedding you'll want to consider elegantly draping chair covers.

STEP 3: Choose the sash. You'll want to pick a coordinating colour for your sashes, though white on white also is an elegant choice. Most sash styles tie across the centre of the chair back, but some will actually hang lower and tie at the base of the backrest. Which one you choose will depend on the kind of chair you are covering, as well as the amount of space you'll have between rows.

STEP 4: Look for stains, dirt, wrinkles or tears. Reputable rental outlets ensure that their chair covers are cleaned regularly. Nevertheless, inspect yours before signing that rental agreement. WE

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Floral

IN THE PINK

Fantasy

Dreamily romantic or dazzlingly elegant, subtle or dramatic, with a hint of palest pink or a statement of shocking pink, wedding florals that include pink are perennially popular.

BOUQUET: Fran Sackler Floral Design fsflorals.com | 905.884.5848

’s backstory Discover the image entials.ca at www.WeddingEss

BRIDE: Ashley Carson BOUQUET: Noaki Jewelry | Etsy PHOTO: Courtesy of Noaki Jewelry

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BRIDE & GROOM: Michelle & Robbie CREATIVE DIRECTION: Fab Fete Event Planning Boutique | 416.565.7421 FLOWERS: DT Floral & Décor | 905.669.9993 LINENS: Have A Seat | 416.633.4447 PHOTO: Concord Photography | concordphoto.com | 905.660.0000

Wedding Wisdom

Marry your honeymoon and your wedding

I

ncreasingly popular, a weddingmoon is the name for a destination wedding where you marry and honeymoon in the same location. You combine the best of both worlds and save costs by having your proverbial wedding cake and eating it, too. Foregoing the elaborate ceremony at home, a wedding can be just the couple, a some core family members, or a large group of friends excited for a week-long beach party. Locations are chosen from all over the world, from five-star, all-inclusive resorts to white-water rafting and camping in the rough. For the couple who think planning a wedding isn’t right for them, a weddingmoon can be a stress-free way to celebrate, relax and focus on each other. By rolling the wedding and honeymoon into one, you can see how the significant cost savings are appealing to a growing number of brides and grooms. WE

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floral fantasy BRIDE & GROOM: Cachelle & Allan FLOWERS: Stemz | 416.686.8526 PHOTOS: Ikonica | ikonica.ca | 416.259.6795

BRIDE & GROOM: Julie & Adam BOUQUET: De Rose Designs & Floral Boutique | 905.832.9900 PHOTO: Elizabeth in Love | elizabethinlove.com

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Wedding Wisdom

What to ask your florist THE KEY QUESTIONS: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Can you show me pictures or samples of your work?

I want to bring in colour swatches for you to work with. Is this a problem?

Do you require a deposit? How much? When is the balance due?

Are you familiar with our ceremony and reception sites? Do you foresee problems at either?

Can you co-ordinate the flowers for the wedding party, mothers and special guests?

Do you deliver? At what cost?

What do your services include?

Do you provide other decorating services?

Do you provide rental services?

Can you preserve my bouquet or can you recommend someone? What is the cost?

Will you set up the flowers at the ceremony and reception sites? Does this cost extra?

What is your cancellation policy? WE

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a real-life wedding

Lacy & John

LOOK, MOM, NO HANDS! THEY TOOK A SKY-HIGH LEAP OF FAITH INTO MARRIAGE

Many bridal couples would say they were on “cloud 9” on their wedding day, but for Lacy Boland and John Kirk from Barrie, truth was that if it hadn’t been a clear day, they would have been in the clouds, literally!

They were the first couple to marry on the CN Tower’s EdgeWalk, 1,168 feet above the streets of Toronto, about 116 storeys, up on the world’s highest external walk on a building. John’s sister secretly had entered them in a Breakfast Television contest. In Lacy’s words, “we were over the moon when we actually won, having been together for 13 years and engaged for 8”; the record-setting opportunity made it possible for them to have a wedding they had never even dreamt about.

A minister, their parents, a wedding party of four and their intrepid photographers were on hand for the ceremony where the couples exchanged elasticized rings because no loose objects are allowed on the EdgeWalk. Later, family and friends witnessed the exchange of their forever wedding bands and shared in a celebratory luncheon at 360 The Restaurant at the CN Tower. Their wedding cake was topped by figures of the couple in their safety walksuits, designed specifically for their wedding.

Congratulations Lacy and John—how will you ever be able to come close to topping this for your anniversary celebrations? WE

PHOTOS: RED ANDAL | RED ANDAL PHOTOGRAPHY | REDANDAL.COM | 647.408.1875

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Wedding Wisdom

Décor decisions

T

he modern bride wants her reception to look plush and glamorously inviting. Décor plays a leading role in bringing that vision to life.

Current trends that create memorable effects with a few accessories are: • Using lots of mirrors, crystal and metallic items to glisten and shine.

• Dramatic colour themes like elegantly stunning black, white and red; or gold and red for Asian themes; or aqua, blue and white for beachside flavour.

• Roses are a sometimes-forgotten fave but are so classic and perform beautifully, standing up to the heat and wear of the long day.

• Dressing up modern square vases with simple ribbon trim makes them stand out.

• Creating low and wider centerpieces rather than tall and elaborate ones.

• Scattering flower petals (or gourds or pinecones for fall and winter) amongst a collection of candles can be effective.

• Decorating with fruit, by itself or mixed with flowers to create fresh and juicy visuals.

• Theme weddings are a great way to let your personality shine through, to bring out your creativity.

You can derive inspiration from so many sources: favourite movies; a favourite season or holiday; an era such as the roaring twenties or the fabulous fifties or, for real history buffs, medieval, Renaissance or Victorian periods.

• Playing into themes i.e., bamboo and seashells for summer/beach wedding; ice sculptures are big as vodka slides and are very cool for weddings; fill clear glass jars with colourful candies to do double duty as a candy station and eye-popping decoration. WE

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Edible

Art

BAKERY: Sweet Sushi | 416.988.7403

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Decadently delicious concoctions figure prominently in wedding celebrations. Cake bakers, chocolatiers, candy makers, and other creators of edible art produce gustatory and visual masterpieces. Here is a sampling of feasts for palate and eye, sensational treats designed to delight and dazzle while tantalizing taste buds.

BAKERY: Fine Cakes by Zehra | 416.824.6221

Wedding Wisdom

Understanding the food lingo APPETIZER: A food or beverage served before a meal to stimulate the appetite.

ASPIC: Cold cooked meat, chicken, fish or fruit set in jelled stock.

A LA MODE: Served with ice cream.

AL DENTE: Refers to cooked pasta that retains its chewiness.

AU JUS: Served in its own juice.

BARQUETTE: A boat-shaped pastry shell stuffed with sweet or savoury filling.

BÉARNAISE SAUCE: A thick sauce for meat, flavoured with tarragon and thyme.

BELUGA CAVIAR: The very expensive large roe (fish eggs) of a beluga sturgeon.

BISCOTTI: Italian biscuits often almond-flavoured and served with coffee.

BLINI: Thin buckwheat pancakes served with caviar and sour cream.

BRIOCHE: French cake-like bread with a light texture.

BUFFET: A service style in which foods are presented from a serving table.

CAESAR SALAD: A salad of greens, served with croutons and a dressing of egg, anchovies, garlic and lemon.

CAPPUCCINO: Espresso coffee served with steamed milk and cinnamon.

CANAPÉ: An appetizer of small toast points served with a topping.

CAVIAR: The ripe eggs of various species of fish.

CHAMPAGNE: A sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France.

CHUTNEY: A relish made of fruit, vinegar and spices.

CONSUMPTION BAR: With this type of bar, you are only billed for the alcohol consumed by your guests.

CREPE: CRUDITE: DIM SUM:

DUCHESSE: EGGS BENEDICT: EMPANADA: ESCARGOT: ESPRESSO: FLAMBÉ: FLAUTA: FOIE GRAS: FONDUE:

FREE-RANGE: FRITTATA: GANACHE: GAZPACHO: GLACÉ: GRAVLAX:

A thin French pancake often rolled with fruit spreads or chocolate cream.

Raw vegetables served as an appetizer.

Small Chinese dumplings that are stuffed with meat, fish or vegetables, and either steamed, baked or fried.

Pastry shells that are filled and served as an appetizer.

English muffins toasted and topped with ham, poached eggs and Hollandaise sauce.

A half-moon shaped pastry turnover that is filled and fried.

Snails that are often cooked in wine, butter and garlic.

A strong, dark, bitter Italian coffee.

A dish that has been doused in liqueur and is served flaming.

A Mexican tortilla shell filled with meat or cheese, rolled and deep-fried.

High-quality pate made of finely ground duck and goose liver.

Melted cheese mixed with white wine used for dipping bread; also a chocolate version for dipping fruits and cakes.

Animals allowed to roam and feed without being confined.

A thick, Italian omelet made with vegetables.

A chocolate cream with a mousse-like texture.

A cold Spanish vegetable soup.

Iced or glazed.

Fillets of raw salmon that have been marinated, spiced and served with dill and sour cream.

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edible art DIVINELY, DELICIOUSLY, DELIGHTFULLY VINTAGE Whether labeled retro or vintage, brides today are in love with things that hark back to a gentler time. Some may choose an entire vintage-themed wedding, while others may select an element or two for their celebrations.

If you decide to go vintage with your wedding cake design, consider details like lace, ruffles, pearls, classic geometric shapes, cameos and opulent flowers like peonies or cabbage roses.

Complete the scene with a vintage cake knife, perhaps with a pearlized handle or another treasure from the past, a silver knife with an ornately-patterned handle. You may even want to search for a vintage cake topper, either for use on the cake or as decoration on the cake table.

PHOTOS: Pink Lemon Bakeshop pinklemonbakeshop.com | 416.221.1333

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BAKERY: For the Love of Cake 416.306.6446

BRIDE & GROOM: Andrea & Jason Haley BAKERY: Enchanted Cupcake Boutique | 905.832.3287 FLOWERS: Fran Sackler Floral Design fsflorals.com | 905.884.5848

BRIDE & GROOM: Fulisha & Phil BAKERY: For The Love of Cake | 416.306.6446 PLANNERS: Fab Fete Event Planning Boutique | 416.565.7421 PHOTO: Tally Greenberg | Phototerra Studio | phototerra.com | 416.479.0724

Wedding Wisdom

Understanding the food lingo (continued) HALVA: A candy made from ground sesame seeds.

HORS D’OEUVRE: An appetizer served at a party before a meal.

J'ICAMA: A Mexican vegetable that is sweet and crispy like a water chestnut.

KEBAB: Small pieces of meat and vegetable skewered and charcoal grilled.

KNISH: A large baked dumpling filled with potato or cheese.

KOSHER: Food prepared in accordance with Jewish dietary laws.

LIQUEUR: A sweetened alcoholic drink flavored with fruit.

LIQUOR: Distilled spirits including vodka, brandy, rum, gin and whiskey.

MOLE: A Mexican sauce made with chicken stock, bananas, corn tortilla, chocolate and chilies.

MUTTON: Sheep and goat meat.

NAAN: A puffy Indian bread similar to pita.

NEGIMAKI: A Japanese dish of thinly sliced beef rolled around scallions in a sweetened soy sauce.

NOISETTES: Hazelnuts or meats and vegetable cuts into round small pieces.

OPEN BAR: A bar that offers an unlimited, full selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at no charge to your guests (also called “full-host bar”).

PANINI: Rolls or buns.

PARFAIT: A dessert of ice cream or pudding alternating with fruit.

PATE: A dish of ground fish, meat or vegetables baked in a mold.

PHEASANT: A wild game bird that tastes similar to chicken.

PHYLLO: Paper-thin layers of dough often used in Greek dishes.

QUAIL: A small game bird.

QUICHE: A pastry shell filled with custard and other flavorful ingredients.

RISOTTO: An Italian rice dish cooked with a base of onions and broth.

RISSOLE: Pastry turnovers stuffed and served hot as appetizers.

SALSA: A usually spicy Mexican sauce that combines tomatoes, chilies, onions and lime.

SIT-DOWN: A service style in which guests’ meals are presented at the table.

SOFT BAR: A bar that offers wine, champagne and sometimes beer.

SORBET: Sherbet sometimes served between courses to refresh the palate.

STATIONS: Presentation areas where food is prepared for guests, such as sushi, pasta, crepe and carved meat stations.

SUSHI: Japanese dish of rice balls topped with wasabi and raw fish.

TABLE SERVICE: Formal style of service in which meals are plated and presented table side.

TAHINI: Sesame-seed paste used in Arab-style cooking.

TARTELLETTE: A small tart.

TORTE: A rolled, filled cake or pie.

VICHYSSOISE: A cold potato and vegetable soup.

WASABI: Japanese horseradish.

WONTON: Chinese egg noodle-wrapped appetizer surrounding a flavorful filling.

SERVICE ATTIRE: The manner in which the waitstaff dresses; can range from tuxedo shirt and bow tie with black pants and white apron to full tuxedo with white gloves. WE

inspiration

FABULOUS

Favours

A SAMPLING OF POSSIBILITIES TO PLEASE WEDDING GUESTS

BY J E S S A LY N N F I N C H E R

The custom of saying thank you to guests for attending a wedding stretches back centuries in time. Long ago, European aristocrats presented wedding guests with elaborate trinket boxes, often embellished with gemstones. Inside were sugar cubes or sugared sweets; these very luxurious and expensive treats could only be afforded by the very wealthy. Today’s brides and grooms have a plethora of possibilities to favour their wedding guests, from fun to fabulous, tasty to terrific, creative to keepsakes. Traditional or trendy, what you choose is as individual as your wedding celebrations. Donations to a favourite cause or charity in your guests’ names are always considerate, alone or in addition to a tangible wedding favour token.

JORDAN ALMONDS By the 13th century, sugar-coated almonds, Jordan Almonds, became a popular choice. Fresh almonds are known for their bittersweet taste, symbolizing life; the addition of a sweet coating carries the wish that the couple’s life will be more sweet than bitter.

This traditional favour could be wrapped in tulle matching the wedding colours, boxed in small containers, or poured into a champagne glass. Attach a note that explains the significance of the Jordan Almond.

A common poem to include that explains the meaning of this guest favour is Jordan Almonds for Thee: Five sugared almonds for each guest to eat To remind us that life is both bitter and sweet.

Five wishes for the new husband and wife— Health, wealth, happiness, children, and a long life!

USB FLASH DRIVE OR CD Going tech trendy might be an excellent choice. Load up USBs with photos of the two of you, including your engagement shots; add your favourite songs and the playlist from your wedding and maybe even a recipe or two from your reception menu and let your guests enjoy more celebrating after the event. Attach a card or splurge for laser-engraving. If your budget allows, you can even get a custom USB designed for the occasion.

A CD loaded with your favourite songs and wedding music is also a popular way for guests to relive memories of your special day.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF EOS

GET LIPPY Every season in Ontario calls for lip balm, an extremely popular product that many use several times a day—perhaps your guests would enjoy these favours. Consider personalized lip balms as well as uniquely-packaged ones like Lip Balm Smooth Spheres from eos—evolution of smooth.

Organic and 100% natural, the balms come in colourful little spheres measuring abut 1.5 inches tall, in a variety of colours that match their flavours.

PICTURE PLANTS What about shiny containers, clay pots or thrift shop tea cups, each planted with one of your favourite herbs? Basil, oregano, mint, rosemary, parsley—all will bring back wedding memories each time your guest cooks with them!

Potted flowers that double as centrepieces can be crowd-pleasers. Gorgeous, colourful orchids such as mini-phalaenopsis, a.k.a. butterfly orchids, are surprisingly easy to grow, add an exotic note, and bloom for a very long time. Mini roses come in various colours and varieties for greenery with blooms. Tiny seedling trees in burlap containers will grace a garden or balcony for years to come. Packets of flower seeds or paper embedded with flower seeds promise future pleasure—think forget-me-nots, cosmos, dahlias or wildflower mixtures.

Wedding Essentials 20 1 4 | 67

inspiration

MICHEL DESIGN WORKS | BRADSHAWS | PHOTO: BARRY JOHNSON

Who doesn’t love a little kitchen gadget, from a timer to a whisk? A stainless steel apple sectioner or cookie cutters might fill the bill.

Heart-shaped coffee scoops or measuring spoons are bound to get a workout. Carrie Wreford, proprietor of Bradshaws & Kitchen Detail in Stratford likes to tailor suggestions for individual weddings. “There are so many wonderful items, including Canadian-company Umbra’s picture holders, imaginative wine bottle stoppers, coasters or bottle openers as well as unique kitchen gadgets. Beautifully-packaged artisanal soaps from England or soy wax candle collections from Michel Design Works are other great options for something a little different from the norm.”

A coffee favour bar with various bean roasts and custom bags for guests to fill and take coffee home is bound to be a hit, as are personalized coffee mugs.

PEN & PAPER A classic journal tied with a bow that fits your theme, whether tulle, lace, burlap, twine or glitzy ribbon is bound to be treasured. Pens that have your names or monogram and the wedding date make pleasing partners or solo favours.

LIFE LOVES Christine Rozon, owner of weddingfavours.ca, has observed that “the couples’ personalities and interests are forefront when they choose favours for their guests. It’s all about putting a personal twist on their choices. If they are into sailing, they might go for anchor motif items or sailboat motifs or depending on the season for their wedding, they might opt for fall leaf inspired items or snowflake-themed favours”.

WEDDINGFAVOURS.CA | PHOTO: BARRY JOHNSON

FUN & USEFUL

COFFEE? TEA? What’s your pleasure? For an interactive favour, set up a tea leaf bar with several different varieties of loose leaf tea as well as containers, for guests to blend their own special concoction to enjoy later. Other tea treats could be heartshaped tea infusers, tea cups with a few packets of various teas, or a glass tea mug with your monogram on it.

ENABLE COOKIES The options are delectably staggering with cookies. A single cookie or two decorated with wedding motifs, stunningly packaged, works, as does a see-through box topped with a bow, bling or bloom, filled with pastel macarons.

What about personalized photo biscotti? A s’mores kit? A package of five different cookies? A cookie bar would be a blast! Have a wide variety of favourite cookies and paper take-out boxes for guests to take home goodies.

Caveat: Be sure no one is allergic to nuts if you plan to include them in the ingredients.

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LACE TOP JAMS | PHOTO: BARRY JOHNSON

TEMPTING TREATS Imagine the amber liquid of Ontario maple syrup in a maple-leaf glass container. Maple sugar or maple tea are other tree-treats!

There’s something about chocolate that is synonymous with pleasure and decadence.

Always a crowd favourite, options are many.

Think eye-catching packaging for a sweet selection of chocolate truffles or artisan chocolates.

A chocolate heart filled with a variety of chocolate delectables like ginger, apricots, hazelnuts and orange peel is a double chocolate feature.

Mini-loaves of various kinds of pound cakes and sweet breads are bound to hit the spot the next morning for brunch—lemon, banana, chocolate, apple caramel, zucchini-pineapple, vanilla or even Grand Marnier apricot.

Go sweetly with a candy bar with apothecary jars filled with mouth-watering delights accompanied by a selection of various sized bags for guests to fill and take home.

If you enjoy preserving or simply eating preserves, a table centrepiece of various jams, jellies, spiced crabapples and relishes topped with lace and ribbon could double as guest favours. If you make them yourself, be sure to say so on the labels, so guests know this is a special gift from your hands and your heart!

Candy apples aren’t just red anymore.

Choose white or milk chocolate covered apples with sprinkles or shredded coconut embellishment or even tux and bridal gown details. Go for caramel embellished with tiny chocolate chips or crushed nuts. Doubledippers are just that—large apples with two coatings, an inner one of caramel or red candy.

If you keep in mind the true meaning of favour—honouring someone—when choosing your wedding favours, your guests are bound to be pleasurably impressed. WE

Wedding Essentials 20 1 4 | 69

for them ThermaCELL lanterns

Neat

Stuff

The moodsign card game

FUN SEXUAL COMMUNICATION TOOL The moodsign card game is one of those great ideas that makes you wonder why someone didn’t think of it sooner— someone like you, perhaps. This is a simple and fun sexual communication tool and game; it is not a sex toy. It is designed for couples in long-term relationships as a way to encourage romance to thrive when all the bustle and hustle of day-to-day life gets in the way. Created for adult couples who respect one another’s bodies and boundaries, this is a fun way to communicate needs and desires. Indicate you’re in the mood for love by raising one arm of the moodsign device and selecting a colour, then follow the card cues. Included are 30 erotic fantasy cards, 12 customizable cards and 6 quid pro quo cards. With moodsign cards like Take Control, Steamy Hot, Foot Fetish, Sensory Overload, Stiletto and Act One...Roleplay, you and your spouse are bound to excite your imaginations and more...

Ed. Comment: What a fun way to put variety, spice and flirtatiousness back into sex while playing a game that you both can enjoy to the fullest.

SHOO AWAY BUGS AT OUTDOOR CELEBRATIONS Vow to get rid of mosquitoes, no-see-ems, black flies and other biting insects at outdoor wedding ceremonies and receptions—without any sound or odour. ThermaCELL Lanterns are decorative, and have three LED lights; they operate on a butane cartridge, releasing a synthetic copy of a natural insecticide found in chrysanthemums. Each lantern is designed to clear a 15 x 15 square foot area. Three repellent mats are included in the repellent option. Each mat provides up to four hours of protection from nasty, distracting, flying uninvited “guests”. Use the lanterns as décor elements—to flank an outdoor aisle, hang from trees or incorporate into table centrepieces for unobtrusive, functional insect repelling.

Ed. Comment: Where was this product when nosee-ems thought I was a delicious buffet last summer?

What a great concept to make outdoor celebrations much more pleasant. Bye-bye-bugs!

Mini Me City hand-sculpted figurines PERSONALIZED IN EVERY DETAIL Looking for something unique that tells your story, not a generic bride-and-groom cake topper or figurine for a sweet table or other element of your wedding? Mini Me City makes each figurine to custom specifications that the client provides on-line, including eye colour, hair colour and skin tone. Couples also provide photos of themselves and their wedding clothing. Custom objects like motorcycles and golf clubs as well as pets can be included, in addition to name plates. The figurines measure from 6 to 7.5 inches (15-19 cm) tall. Great as wedding cake toppers or other wedding features, the figurines are also popular for bridal showers, groom’s cake decoration or any special occasion.

Ed. Comment: There is nothing ho-hum about these wedding cake toppers which could also be used for a variety of purposes at weddings and pre-wedding parties.

Great conversation pieces. Cool...! WE

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Wedding Wisdom

Shoes! Glorious Shoes!!

B

uy your shoes as soon as you find your dress so you can wear them to the fittings. There are so many styles, fabrics and trims to choose from, it boggles the mind. Of course, the shoes should compliment the style and colour of the gown. They can be satin, silk, brocade and adorned with pearls, lace, sequins or rosettes. Shoes can be traditional, or may also be a place where you can spice things up with a personal splash of colour.

Don’t forget the most important thing of all when choosing your shoes. You are going to be walking and standing and dancing in them for hours and hours. Make sure they are comfortable.

If you must have some height choose a comfortable pump with a shorter heel. Of course, the comfort level is up to you. Wear your shoes before the wedding to break them in. WE

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a real-life wedding

Saba & Anees THIS FAIRY-TALE WEDDING LASTED FOR DAYS This is the story of wedding celebrations befitting a selfdescribed princess and her prince. The bride’s favourite fairy tale is the story of Cinderella. She admires “her perseverance in the story and how she found strength and happiness in the end”.

Once upon a time, not so long ago, Saba K and Anees Khokhar met through mutual friends. Later they had a non-date, meeting as friends at Alice Fazooli’s for dinner to celebrate their new jobs.

It was also the beginning of their fairytale romance. In time the handsome man asked for his beautiful princess’ parents’ blessing before proposing. Anees took the mike at a fundraising party to announce the raffle prizes, looking “extremely nervous” to Saba who put it down to public speaking jitters. To her surprise, he began speaking about reasons he fell in love with her, got down on one knee and proposed, holding a princess-cut ring.

Saba wanted a fairy-tale wedding. It would be a celebration where every detail of the Cinderella theme was executed to perfection. She and Anees wanted to pamper their guests, to make it a fun time for everyone. There were five wedding events that the couple, family and friends will remember forever.

THE MAYYON The first event of the wedding celebrations was the Mayyon. The Mayyon, sometimes spelled Mayun or Mayon, includes elements from Pakistani tradition with music, dancing and a dinner to celebrate the upcoming marriage. At one time the Mayyon marked the beginning of the bride’s seclusion before she married. Only Saba’s family and friends were present. In keeping with tradition, Saba wore the colour yellow. She chose a yellow and bright pink churidar salwar kameez, a long tunic worn over slim pink leggings.

PHOTOS: MPSG WEDDINGS

72 | Wedding Essentials 2014

a real-life wedding

Female relatives and bridal attendants carried a chiffon dupatta over her head, leading Saba to a stage where family and friends came to feed her sweets, perform rituals and give blessings. Among the ancient rituals was the application of a golden paste on Saba’s face; it was made from turmeric, sandalwood powder, herbs and aromatic oils placed on a tray decorated with colourful flowers. She was also bedecked with lavish floral garlands.

THE NIKKAH The following day the Muslim matrimonial service took place at The Islamic Centre of Canada Masjid in Mississauga. Saba wore a vibrant crimson mermaid-style lengha, a raw silk skirt decorated with ornate silver and red jewel work. A net fabric blouse and headpiece completed her attire.

Only family and close friends attended the Nikkah, an intimate and formal ceremony, which was officiated over by an Imam who recited verses from the Quran that talk about the creation of one soul that was split into two souls that are meant to come together to guide each other on a path of immortality. An offering of marriage was made from Saba’s family which was accepted verbally by the groom and then the bride. Then their marriage contract was signed, witnessed

by God and a member of the groom’s family and a member of the bride’s. Families greeted each other with congratulations and blessings for the newlyweds as Anees’ family distributed sweets in the couple’s honour.

THE MEHNDI The next afternoon the traditional Mehndi was held for thirty close family members and friends of the bride. Designs on hands and feet created by henna/mehndi are a time-honoured tradition for South Asian brides. The belief is that the deeper the colour and the longer it lasts, the stronger is the groom’s love for his bride. Saba had jewels applied to the modern openwork floral henna designs that she selected.

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a real-life wedding That evening, more than 300 guests celebrated at the Mehndi event where Saba wore a forest-green churidar salwar kameez from Karachi, Pakistan, a gift from her cousin’s family members. Anees arrived first, under a dupatta held by family and friends. Saba made her grand entrance in a dohli carried by her cousins. Both bride and groom were showered with rose petals from their new in-laws.

The couple sat on a swing as family and friends came up and performed rituals, including blessing them by feeding them sweets and putting money over their heads. Later the funds were donated to the needy.

The energy level matched the vibrant celebration with a Bollywood remix performance as well as Bhangra group dancers, and a gangnam style dance.

Saba loves “Anees’ sense of humour. He loves to host and bring friends and family together to celebrate, laugh and make the most of every moment. He loves kids and they gravitate towards his playfulness. Just doing simple things like playing Scrabble or air hockey is a lot of fun for us”.

Anees loves “Saba’s cute personality.

She is often very serious but then she has an entire other side to her when she’s really funny and loves to poke fun at friends and me as well as at herself.

How many brides would request that their brother do a roast rather than a traditional sentimental speech at their wedding? And she absolutely loved that everybody, including her, related to the humour!”.

THE SHAADI Two days later the bride’s family hosted a shaadi reception for more than 500 guests to celebrate the couple’s marriage. As Saba had imagined, this was a very grand and glittering gala, suitable for a true princess. She arrived in a Cinderella coach pulled by white steeds. It was a fairy-tale vision come to life.

Saba wore a custom-designed Cinderella-inspired skirt of white raw silk with intricate designs of clear crystals and blue crystals. The V-neck short-sleeved top was layered with silver and peacock blue embellishment. She partially covered her head with a dupatta, honouring the traditions of her culture in a modern way with a silver headpiece.

Bridal attendants wore sarees in deep georgette blue with silver sequin-work. Their gowns echoed the colour of the accents on Saba’s gown.

Anees looked every inch a Pakistani prince, wearing a traditional sherwani of peacock blue jacket and silver pants and sporting an ornate headpiece. The groomsmen wore black suits for a bridal party look that blended east and west.

Saba’s advice to brides: “It takes months of planning, but a wedding day goes by in an instant. Enjoy the process, because the day comes and goes before you know it!”

Anees’ advice to grooms: “Stay calm and always agree with your bride-to-be.”

Best advice they have been given: “Don’t stress the little things in life.

They won’t matter in the big picture.

Be happy and take care of each other.”

— from the bride’s mom

BRIDE’S GOWN, SHAADI & WALIMA: Dinesh Ramsay | 416.571.9010 BRIDE’S HAIR, MAKEUP, MEHNDI, SHAADI, WALIMA: Sahrish Bridal Pro | 647.838.4362 BRIDE’S LENGHA, NIKKAH: Bombay Trendz | 905.890.8902 BRIDESMAIDS’ SAREES, SHAADI: Dinesh Ramsay | 416.571.9010 GROOM’S ATTIRE, SHAADI: Men of India | 905.672.6665 DÉCOR & FLOWERS: The Perfect Setting | 416.884.4802 DJ: DJ Kamran | ABC Productions | 416.918.0000 CAKES: Zeelicious Confectionary Delights | 905.461.0097 WEDDING PLANNER: Pam Litt | 416.460.1226 VENUE, MEHNDI: Pearl Banquet Hall | 905.238.8585 VENUE, SHAADI: Riviera Parque | 416.987.4400 VENUE, WALIMA: Apollo Convention Centre | 905.670.8009 VIDEOS & PHOTOS: Andrew Hiorth | MPSG Weddings | mpsgweddings.ca | 647.692.6774

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Professional dancers in cultural costumes were a big hit, as was a castle cake that towered six tiers high in sparkling white grandeur. The lavish dinner included South Asian specialties such as fish pakora, chaat papri, chicken biryani, veal korma, butter chicken, tandoori chicken, chana masala and a variety of desserts, among them kheer, gulab jamun, and chocolate fondue with fruits and biscuits.

Party favours were carefully selected by Saba for the shaadi guests. Each place setting had a long-stem rose wrapped in peacock blue cellophane that also held Hershey kisses.

There were Oreo cookies covered in milk chocolate with white fondant on top with Saba and Anees’ monogram.

Each guest was given a music CD, a compilation of the duo’s favourite Bollywood songs, both traditional and modern remix tunes. Photos of their engagement were on each side of the CD case.

An on-site photo booth was a huge success. Saba provided guests with frames so that when they had their photo taken, they had a framed memento of their family at the event. The newlyweds have seen the photos up in the houses of their guests, a clear indication of its popularity!

A traditional rukhsati that Saba describes as “extremely emotional, bringing me to tears” was the finale of the evening. It signifies the bride leaving her parents’ home to become a member of the groom’s home and family.

Saba’s brother held the Quran over her head as she and Anees walked out of the hall to their limousine with his parents accompanying them. The purpose of this custom is to send blessings and prayers with the bride as she leaves with the groom and his family.

THE WALIMA Ten days later the groom’s family hosted the walima, the last event of the wedding celebrations. This was another spectacular reception. Saba was regal in her electric purple lengha while Anees dressed in western garb.

Guests enjoyed dance performances, a celebratory banquet, dancing and a slideshow that included highlights of all the wedding events that had taken place as well as images of Saba and Anees growing up. Silver boxes held guest favours of Lindor chocolates.

Another spectacular cake, in the walima theme colours of silver and purple, was a muchadmired—and savoured—feature. WE

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a real-life wedding

Jenna & Brent ONTARIO WEST COAST WEDDING OLD-SCHOOL CASUAL CHARM

Ask anyone who attended the Jenna McIntyre and Brent Kelders wedding and they’ll tell you that this wedding was a very special occasion. Filled with elements that reflected the bride and groom’s experiences and personalities, the celebrations were relaxed and loads of fun for everybody—this educator couple made it all look as easy as ABC...

RACE TO ROMANCE Although Jenna and Brent both live in the small Ontario beach town of Grand Bend, they hadn’t met until Brent came to pick up his sister, who worked at the same place Jenna did.

It wasn’t long before Brent discovered that Jenna shared his love for classic cars. As Jenna tells it, Brent was helping his dad restore classic cars from the time he was “big enough to hold a wrench”. Brent invited Jenna to go on a date with him to the drag strip in Grand Bend, where he races his 1966 Chevrolet Malibu.

She even got to go in the car with him down the track! The date didn’t end until 5 a.m. and they’ve been together ever since.

PHOTOS: SANDRA REGIER PHOTOGRAPHER

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PIER PROPOSAL The couple love taking drives in Brent’s Malibu, grabbing a coffee and enjoying the town and beach. It wasn’t unusual to walk out to the lighthouse at the end of the pier jutting into Lake Huron. What was unusual one day was that Brent grabbed Jenna’s hand, saying “wait!”. He knelt to propose; she kept saying, “Are you serious? Are you serious? Seriously? YES!!!”.

HAPPY, RELAXED CELEBRATIONS Jenna and Brent’s goal was to have one of the happiest, most fun days of their lives on their wedding day. Their vintage-themed wedding took place at Benmiller Inn & Spa, in a hamlet near Goderich. They married under an arbour made by a brother-in-law that was a beautiful backdrop for wedding photos.

GOWNS AND MORE Jenna chose a drop-waisted A-line bridal gown with sweetheart neckline and a bodice covered in bling, including Swarovski crystals. The multi-layered tulle skirt had a side-sweep feature. In sharp contrast to her elegant gown was her choice of footwear—Converse Chuck Taylor Classics that matched what her groom and his groomsmen wore.

Her garter was special for two reasons. Jenna’s mom made it for her daughter and incorporated jewels from her mother who passed away just before her granddaughter was born. Jenna was honoured to wear this heirloom that celebrated three generations in her family.

The bridal attendants’ gowns featured a teal-blue charmeuse underlay with a black lace overlay bodice and black chiffon overlay skirt. Each chose a style of bodice they preferred and the seamstress created their tops from design photos they emailed her.

BRIDE’S GOWN: Allure Bridals 8901 | Nicholas & Elizabeth Bridal | 519.439.9843 BRIDE’S HAIR: Julie Clark | 519.238.6101 BRIDE’S MAKEUP: Kristine Dustin | Beauty & Bling | 519.808.3607 SEAMSTRESS: Chantal Day | 519.317.2725 FLOWERS: The Garden Gate Gifts & Florals | 1.877.238.1701 CAKE: That Little Cake Place | 519.202.0124 VENUE: Benmiller Inn & Spa | 519.524.2191 HONEYMOON: The Mosaic at Blue Mountain | 705.445.0231 PHOTOS: Sandra Regier Photographer | sandraregier.com | 519.852.4892

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a real-life wedding DOING THEIR HOMEWORK

MAKE MINE LOCAL

Both Jenna and Brent are teachers so it seemed fitting to have chalkboard props. They made the guest favours, wooden balancing wine holders.

Embossed with their names and wedding date, they doubled as place cards with a small rectangle of chalkboard paint with each guest’s name.

Long, narrow rectangular tables were graced with many small centrepieces. The duo collected over 150 antique mason jars and put various sizes of jars that held single flowers on each table.

Jenna and Brent believe in supporting local businesses and their casual chic wedding was created using local talent. Even the glutenfree menu created for their wedding featured local products.

When it came to choosing a honeymoon destination they travelled only a couple of hours to Collingwood where they enjoyed lots of adventures, including zip-lining and hiking in the beautiful Blue Mountains of Ontario.

They took a high-ropes course and went on a mini-roller coaster down the mountain. They were just a walk from shopping and restaurants to complete their relaxing honeymoon. WE

Jenna’s favourite moment was “when the DJ announced he was about to play the last song of the night and ended up playing our first dance song again, “I Won’t Give Up”

by Jason Mraz. He asked guests to form a circle as we slow-danced together again, surrounded by all our loved ones holding hands around us in support and celebration of our day. It was a great finale, when you don’t want to end the best day of your life”.

Brent relates that his fondest memory was “when Jenna and her father rounded the corner and made their way down the aisle.

At that moment, everything came together perfectly. Every worry went away and the only thing that was left was happiness”.

Jenna loves that “Brent has good, solid values. He is very family-oriented, loyal and trustworthy. I am excited to start the rest of my life with this man, knowing that he has so many amazing qualities to pass on and share with our own family”.

Brent loves that “when you are around Jenna, you are instantly drawn to her positive and loving personality. She is caring, loving, compassionate and will always help me fix a situation if I’ve messed something up!”.

Jenna’s advice to brides: “Don’t stress. If the bride is stressed, no one will have a good time. I focused on relaxing and having a good time and everyone around me, even staff, seemed to be relaxed and happy”.

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Wedding Wisdom

The Flower Girl

L

ittle girls can lend just the right degree of levity to a wedding with their sweet innocence and honest childish joy at being included in such an important event.

Normally, one or two flower girls will participate. It’s important to pick little girls who can handle the event. You don’t want children so young that they’ll be too scared to walk down the aisle or who will dissolve in tears.

Don’t give in to pressure on this matter. You want everyone to enjoy the day and really small tots may not be up to being flower girls.

Depending on the children, a good age range is

from four to eight. The parents of the flower girl or girls need to make sure they get a good rest the night before the ceremony. They also are responsible for their clothes. You will provide the basket of flowers—generally a tiny nosegay, baby roses or small bouquet.

The flower girl is required to walk immediately in front of you and your father in the processional, holding a basket of flowers. It used to be customary for these youngsters to strew rose petals along the way up the aisle but this has proven to be unsafe for both brides and guests. It is no

longer recommended and indeed many churches also have rules against it.

If she is mature enough, the flower girl may stand next to the maid of honour during the ceremony and follow you and the groom down the aisle afterwards. If the flower girl is too young to stand quietly during the ceremony, she can stand at the front with the wedding party until the bride arrives at the groom’s side and the ceremony begins. Then she can quietly go and sit in the front pew with the bride’s parents or her own. aAt the reception, the flower girls can participate in the receiving line. WE Wedding Essentials 20 1 4 | 81

Free book means less stress when you plan your big day

Planning a formal wedding can cause stress in the most serene of women.

But you can plan yours with a minimum of frayed nerves, thanks to this FREE book from Wedding Essentials.

The Bride’s Survival Guide gives you detailed instructions on planning every aspect of your big day. This 128-page manual (a $39.95 value) offers insider advice on the engagement, the advance preparations, the budget, the ceremony, the reception, the honeymoon, and your first home together.

You get tips on saving money, answers to your etiquette questions, solutions to tough family problems, and ideas on how to make your wedding unique.

Plus ... we show you how to get the best deals from suppliers. Without sacrificing quality.

This unique manual has helped more than 70,000 Ontario brides over the past 20 years. Let us send you your own personal FREE copy.

Mail the postpaid request card opposite this page. Or complete the form on-line at www.weddingessentials.ca. We’ll be pleased to help you remain calm every step of the way to the altar.

www.weddingessentials.ca Your wedding. Your vision. Your choice.

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lens flair

How

TO CHOOSE

a WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER leading photographers share their experience and expertise to help you in the selection process B Y J O N AT H A N B A R R AT T

Y

MILIJANA & MILOS | PHOTO: DAYIAN PHOTOGRAPHY

our wedding photographs are your visual diary of your wedding day. Your photographer will capture moments that you share and moments you aren’t able to—a behindthe-scenes account as well. The selection of your wedding photographer is extremely important, more so than some couples anticipate—until they have made a wrong choice.

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JOE DAYIAN DAYIAN PHOTOGRAPHY DAYIANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM “When choosing your wedding photographer, in the end follow your heart, but don’t forget to take your brain.”

Ask about service and professionalism and photographic styles. This is the couple’s most important day of their lives. It shouldn’t be ruined by anyone. Your wedding photographer is providing a service for you and must be professional in the way he/she acts and interacts with you. You not only should be asking questions but also searching for reviews on the photographer to discover other couples’ experiences.

Your photographer must be able to shoot in multiple styles—candids during ceremony, reception and pre-ceremony prep; portraiture for the formal portraits; and creative, showing pizzazz, when it’s the couple alone with the photographer. Often the creative shots are when the photographer and couple have some fun together to create truly memorable images.

Go for timeless and classic. Don’t be fooled by filters, textures or lens flares that are added to images afterwards and are trendy. You don’t want to look at your images in future years and say, “that’s so 2014”!

Can we meet for a coffee? You will be spending a great deal of time with the photographer during your wedding day. The more comfortable you feel around your photographer, the more natural and beautiful your wedding images will feel. After meeting face-to-face, ask yourself some questions. Do I like this person? Do I feel comfortable with her/him? Do I trust this person to handle the most important day in my life?

How much wedding experience do you have?

How many weddings does the photographer have under his/her belt? A wedding day is fastpaced and the photographer should be able to capture all the important elements and details of the day without giving it much thought.

Knowing how, what, where, why and who to take the photograph of should come as second nature. Because if it’s not, something will always be missed. Also, think Murphy’s

MELISSA & SHAY | PHOTO: DAYIAN PHOTOGRAPHY

KEY QUESTIONS

Law...problems happen and the photographer must be able to deal with all situations that arise—no excuses!

Can I check out full weddings? Don’t be fooled by an album, portfolio, website, or a blog of the photographer’s “best of” images. You can gain a better insight into style and skill when going through albums of a full wedding. While looking at images, ask yourself key questions.

How do the images make me feel? Do the images move me? Does this photographer capture everything that’s important to me?

Ask about contracts and policies. Insist on a contract from your wedding photographer. It provides protection for all concerned. A contract should detail the services being provided, the pricing, termination and more.

It’s better not to have surprises and to know exactly where you stand in case of a misunderstanding. If the photographer won’t create a contract, ask yourself why not? Maybe that’s your cue to shy away.

MISTAKES The biggest one is under-budgeting your photography. You get what you pay for. Many couples under-budget and under-value the photography, only to realize their mistake

when it’s too late. There are tough choices to make; you have to determine what is best for you and your situation. There is a wide range of what wedding photographers charge for services and many options that they will throw at you. It can be daunting trying to compare apples to oranges.

Instead, focus on the expertise, the quality of work and the quality of products. If a certain package is out of your budget, remove some items. Maybe payments can be made in installments that will work for your budget.

Don’t consider the engagement session unnecessary or a waste or time. Call it a dry run in preparation for your wedding. It is a time when you’ll get to know your photographer.

When he/she shows up on your wedding day you will see a warm and friendly face instead of a stranger. Then it’s much easier to get comfortable in front of a camera.

The pre-wedding shoot ensures that not only will you not feel awkward getting your pictures taken on your wedding day, but also that your photographer has a better understanding of how the two of you are in front of a camera. In addition, your photographer will find out what you really love a lot and what you only love a little from the images captured during the engagement session.

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DINA & AZRA BAJRIC FACE PHOTOGRAPHY FACEPHOTOGRAPHY.CA

SARAH & MIKE | PHOTO: FACE PHOTOGRAPHY

“Any monkey with a point and shoot camera can take 50 great shots during a 10-hour wedding day, but what will the other 650 to 750 photos look like?”

KEY QUESTIONS Do you have any online reviews? Online reviews on reputable sites are a great way to get to know your photographer before making a choice.

Poor reviews = danger ahead! Most sites don’t allow fake reviews to be posted and the most popular review sites don’t allow a photographer to remove a negative review...so what you see is what you get.

STEFANIA & ANTHONY | PHOTO: FACE PHOTOGRAPHY

Can you show me a few entire wedding albums with a minimum of 700-800 photos from each?

Don’t just look at 50 photos from a photographer, check out entire albums.

Consider the minimum number of photos provided in your package. Choose a photographer who will provide you with a minimum of 60 photos per hour of shooting time. You should be able to get links and passwords from a photographer for their online client albums to go through several wedding albums. If a photographer is not willing to show you several entire albums, it’s probably a good idea to look elsewhere.

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How will you back up our photos during the wedding day to make sure they don’t get “lost” or fall victim to “technical” failure? Today, there are no excuses for lost or damaged photos. Blaming technology just doesn’t cut it. Having two photographers and constant backup on an external hard drive throughout the day are a must. We’ve heard so many horror stories of damaged photos, lost or corrupted memory cards, that fool-proofing is a big safety concern.

A minimum of two photographers shooting at the same time, each with their own set of memory cards works, so that the whole wedding isn’t stored on one alone. Immediately uploading to a portable hyper-drive adds another level of safety. The already backed-up memory cards should be stored in separate, safe locations. Back at the studio, the photos should be uploaded on computers and backedup yet again for peace of mind.

Will you, not someone else, photograph my engagement session and be my photographer on the day of my wedding? Personality mesh and a great connection with your photographer is really important. Having an engagement session is a huge bonus. Do you really want a complete stranger showing up at your home on your wedding day? Do you want someone you’ve never met, and may not like, with you all day on the most important day of your life? Make sure you meet your wedding day photographer before you sign on the dotted line!

MISTAKES Don’t pick a photographer based on price alone.

Your wedding photos, and/or video, are the

only things you will have to show for your wedding after the big day is over. When it comes to wedding day photography, like most things in life, you get what you pay for. Make sure you love your selected photographer’s style. When you are looking at multiple full wedding albums from the photographer, know that you would be very happy if you had one of those. At the end of the day, your photos will look just like the other albums you have seen by each particular photographer. If you are concerned about budget, select a package that includes high-resolution, edited images without including prints...but try to cut costs everywhere else before cutting your photography budget. Your photos will be with you for the rest of your life and being unhappy with them is a regret you don’t want to have.

Don’t skip the engagement session. It’s not only a great way to start building a relationship with your photographers but also gives you an opportunity to practice being in front of the camera and learn some key tricks before the wedding day.

Don’t opt for only one photographer instead of two.

There is no way one photographer can capture it all and so important moments are bound to be missed. Two can capture from two angles with two types of lenses, close-up and wide, which will lead to a wider variety of creative photos and candid moments. If one photographer accidentally misses the first kiss or a photo is out of focus, the other is bound to catch it. It’s almost like an insurance policy for your most important wedding day moments.

& MORE SAGE ADVICE TIMELY TIP Allow plenty of time to make your selection of photographer. Look at this as a “due diligence” process, allowing the necessary time to research the information you require to make a fully informed decision. Be sure to factor in the lead time necessary to fit into the calendar of a sought-after wedding photographer. You don’t want to decide on a photographer, only to be disappointed by finding their wedding photo dates are entirely booked and there is no room for you because you waited until the last minute.

PREPARATION Take time to prepare for your meeting with a potential photographer. Don’t even think about “winging it”! Be sure to ask the same questions of every photographer you interview so you can make a direct comparison on services and products. Take charge of the interview so you don’t get sidetracked and miss key info.

LOVES & HATES Tell your photographer what you love and what you hate in images—don’t rely on mindreading! This will save time and hassle in the long run and avoid misunderstandings.

PRICE FIX Get a fix on why a photographer sets prices for services. Training, experience, equipment and much more determine price points. It should never be “what the market will bear”.

FUTURE FORWARD When you are setting your budget for photography it’s good to remember that your wedding photographs will be something that not only you, but your children and grandchildren will cherish. When you are looking for wedding budget items to trim back, try not to do so for your wedding photography and images.

FOCUS, FOCUS By following the great advice from these professional wedding photographers, you have the information at hand that you need to be able to focus in on how to make an excellent choice when it comes to selecting who will shoot your precious wedding photos. WE Discover more great tips from leading wedding photographers at www.WeddingEssentials.ca

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Wedding Wisdom

Videography

M

any couples decide to videotape their wedding as an afterthought—long after they've interviewed and booked the photographer who will take the still collection of their big day. Because so many people today own digital equipment, you might be tempted to ask an uncle or neighbour to do the videotaping.

But nowadays, wedding videos have become as important as photographs. They are a wonderful addition to your collection of memories. To ensure they capture the mood and emotions of the day with the visual quality, artistry and humour you desire, it pays to plan ahead and hire a professional to do the job.

For friends and family who cannot attend your wedding, a video is the next best thing to being there. You supply friends and family with a password and they can view your wedding from anywhere in the world where there is internet access.

Some videographers capture your childhood years and engagement period using a montage of still photographs at the start of the video. Others produce a brief video of the ceremony which can be shown at the wedding reception as part of their overall package.

Often the videographer actually consists of a team of two or three people using wireless microphones, low-light cameras and other specialized equipment. They can be on the scene wherever events are taking place, indoors and outdoors.

PHOTO AND VIDEO CHECKLIST Before the Ceremony • Bride alone in dress • Bride touching up makeup or adjusting veil • Bride with mother • Bride with father • Bride with maid or matron of honour • Bride with bridesmaids • Bride with both parents • Bride putting on garter or placing penny in shoe • Everybody getting their flowers • Bride leaving house • Bride and father getting into the car • Groom alone • Groom with best man, shaking hands, looking at his watch • Groom and ushers putting on boutonnieres • Groom with his parents • Groom leaving for the ceremony • Moments dressing At the Ceremony • Guests arriving • Bride getting out of car • Groom’s parents being seated, or in procession • Usher escorting guests • Groom and groomsmen at the altar • The processional • Bride starting down the aisle • The altar and decorations • Giving-away ceremony • Bride and groom exchanging vows • Ring ceremony • The kiss • Bride and groom coming up the aisle • The recessional • Bride and groom with officiant

• Bride and groom outside with guests • Bride and groom getting into the car • Bride and groom looking through rear car window Before the Reception • The couple together • Bride and groom with all the attendants • Bride and groom with their individual attendants • Bride and groom with child attendants • Bride and groom with her parents • Bride and groom with his parents • Both families together At the Reception • Bride and groom getting out of the car • Bride and groom making a grand entrance.

• The couple greeting guests in the receiving line • Guests signing the guest book • Bride and groom dancing • Bride and her father dancing • Groom dancing with his mother • Bride dancing with her father-in-law • Groom dancing with his mother-in-law • Both sets of parents dancing • Bridesmaids and ushers dancing • Guests dancing • The sweets table • Bride and groom cutting the cake • The couple feeding cake to each other • Bride and groom receiving toasts • Buffet tables • The bridal party’s table • The parents’ table • The musicians/entertainment • Bride tossing the bouquet • Groom tossing the garter. WE

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life lines

Rock

YOUR BRIDAL LOOK

BY I M A R A G O W E R

Tips to help you look and feel your best on your wedding day

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FIT & FABULOUS. After that engagement ring is slipped on your finger is the time to begin, if you haven’t already. Are you prone to procrastination about getting in shape?

Consider hiring a personal trainer.

GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT. Good sources of nutrition are needed for optimum performance and appearance. Do your research and/or work with a pro—a nutritionist or dietitian. The basics include eating 5-6 small meals a day, lots of leafy greens and vibrantly-coloured vegetables, fresh fruits rather than sugary desserts and balancing a palm-sized portion of lean protein at meals with veggies and complex carbs.

TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK. Who hasn’t heard about drinking eight, 8-oz glasses of water per day? It’s a good rule of thumb but remember that other fluids count in that 64-ounce suggestion. Not all beverages do though—do your research! Limit soda, other sugary drinks and alcohol.

GET ENOUGH ZZZs. Word is that 7.5 hours to 8 hours of sleep per night is best. Keep your bedroom totally dark, so your body can produce the melatonin it needs. The National Sleep Foundation suggests no eating for 2-3 hours before bedtime, having a relaxing bedtime routine and making sleep a priority— not something you fit in after everything else is done.

RELAX. While this should be one of the happiest times in your life, it can also be one of the most stressful, if you let it! Make time to relax. Start a regular massage schedule with a registered massage therapist. Experiment with different types of massage that range from relaxation massages to deep tissue therapy that can ease hyper-tense muscles.

SKIN PROS. Invest in a visit to a highlyrecommended dermatologist; set your first appointment for at least 6 months before the wedding. Dr. Wei Jing Loo, dermatologist and owner of DermEffects, notes that “a growing number of brides are turning to

cosmetic procedures to prepare for their weddings. Whether the concern is blemishes, pigmentation, frown lines or unwanted facial hair, there is trained professional help available. Botox gives faces a more relaxed and refreshed look as well as a brow lift, but do it at least two weeks before the wedding for full effect. Dermal fillers are used to restore youthful contours and age-related volume loss, so are great also for mothers of the bride and groom. Start the injections several months out. Laser genesis improves skin texture and tone to rejuvenate and promote healthy looking skin. Large pores are reduced in size and minor imperfections are diminished. Again, start treatment 4-6 months before the wedding”.

SHINE HAIR, SHINE! The best way to ensure lustrous, shining hair is to be sure your scalp and its sebum output is well-nourished. Consume an adequate amount of Omega-3 fatty acids and consider supplementing vitamin D. Because hair is made up of protein, be sure to eat enough lean protein to keep your hair radiant. Zinc, iron,

biotin, foods like avocados and lots of green veggies are helpful. Hair loss can be an issue.

Toronto dermatologist and hair transplant specialist, Dr. Jeff Donovan, sees many brides who want to improve their hair for their wedding. He notes that it generally takes at least 7-8 months to see improvements in one’s hair if hair loss medications or hair transplants are recommended. “All women with hair loss need their blood levels, thyroid hormone levels and iron levels checked. Keep eating well and take a multivitamin. It’s quite common for me to see women with hair loss who lost too much weight too fast. Be sure to get split ends cut off and use a good conditioner.”

SPA YOURSELF. Skin-baring, backless bridal gowns beg for beautiful skin. Carlos Calvo, Spa Manager at The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel, Toronto, recommends a natural kaolin clay wrap with green tea that has a bonus of preventing water retention. The green tea fights free radicals.

The clay draws out impurities and removes toxins, clearing skin of dirt, oil and pollution for maximum hydration and glowing skin. WE

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timely tips

Canada

REVENUE ABCs For Newlyweds

MAN Y THINGS CHANGE with marital status, including some that need to be addressed with the Canada Revenue Agency.

Here’s a heads-up from the CRA for couples planning their wedding or newlyweds regarding some of the bases to cover.

Unlike social media, CRA doesn’t accept name changes via hashtag. Call 1.800.959.8281 or update your status on the CRA’s My Account service or by submitting Form RC65 (Martial Status Change) which you will find online at www.cra.gc.ca/forms.

Check out changes to your tax situation that marriage can cause by visiting the CRA’s Life Events page for detailed information. If you are buying a home together or moving into a new place, the CRA will guide you through an

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address change, claiming the first-time home owner’s tax credit, or accounting for expenses related to the business use of your home. Go to www.cra.gc.ca/myhome for complete information for homeowners.

On the Life Events page also find out about spousal registered retirement savings plans and

other information such as if you are blending your families, what you need to do to receive or change the Canada child tax benefit payments.

Opening a joint bank account with your new spouse? Don’t forget to update your direct deposit information to make sure your benefits and refunds go to the right place. For more info, check out www.cra.gc.ca/directdeposit.

Did you know that you can authorize your new spouse to act as your representative for income tax matters, if taxes aren’t your strong suit? Then he/she can file your return for you or contact CRA to make enquiries on your behalf. The Authorize My Representative service can be done on line in My Account or by submitting Form T1013 (Authorizing or Cancelling a Representative). WE

Wedding Wisdom

Picking a diamond

W

hen looking for a diamond you should forget about cut, colour, clarity and carat, commonly known as the four Cs. Focus instead on price, to ensure you do not overspend. Only then should you consider the four Cs—using the following guidelines.

• Most people should buy a stone in the G/H range. These will appear “white” to the untrained eye. However, if the stone will be set in a yellow-gold mount, consider a stone that is slightly yellow in colour. It will look white.

CLARITY CUT • The cut is the hardest to judge for the average person but it’s the most important thing.

• Search for a stone that looks good face-up.

The more sparkle and “fire,” the better the cut. Caution: Avoid diamonds that have spots where no light comes through.

• Stones range from F (flawless) to I3 (included/imperfect). Hint: Don’t spend big bucks on clarity if it cannot be seen • SI-1 is a high enough grade for most buyers.

• If the imperfection is off to one side, have your jeweller design the setting so that the flaw is hidden.

COLOUR

CARAT

• Colours range from D (colourless) to Z (yellow). (“Fancy” colours are a different category.)

• Bigger is more expensive.

• “Magic” sizes are the most expensive

(.75 ct, 1 ct etc.). Caution: Be careful when considering one of these sizes. Some jewellers will cut too deep in order to produce a diamond of this size.

• Size isn't everything. The average person can't tell the difference between .9 and 1 ct. WE

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Wedding Wisdom

Your Wedding.

Your Reception.

Your Way.

E

ven though there's a huge amount of hectic activity leading up to your big day, you’ll realize all the planning was worthwhile when everyone, including you, has a great time. The planning stages are full of choices, each one as important as the next— location, caterer, type of service, type of food, and so on. Selected with care, however, all these choices combine to make your day one that works well and allows you both to enjoy yourselves. In anything, 90 percent of the job is in the planning, so start off early by looking for the perfect place to hold your reception. The type of place you choose is affected by many factors—location, size of guest list, and degree of formality or informality you prefer.

SCHEDULE YOUR RECEPTION AT THE RIGHT TIME OF DAY Time of day affects the formality of your reception. Although luncheon receptions can be either formal or informal, dinner is almost always more formal, unless you are going with a theme wedding. For example, a Hawaiian luau would not call for black tie.

Generally speaking, it is the rule to serve breakfast or brunch after a morning wedding, seated lunch after a noon ceremony, high tea after an early afternoon ceremony, hors d'oeuvres after a mid-afternoon ceremony, and a sit-down dinner, buffet, or passed tray after a late afternoon or evening ceremony.

SURF RECEPTION SITES Never has there been a time where you can get so much research done just by sitting in your chair. Use the internet to scout potential wedding reception sites. Many sites have specific wedding sections that list features available and standard fees. Pictures usually show the best assets the location has to offer. You can email the site to get back to you if you have further questions. Voilá, a day’s work done while still in your pajamas. You must, of course, see the location in person before signing on the dotted line.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN THAT VENUE CONTRACT The key components: • Menu details and how the food will be served.

• What beverages will be served.

• Number of serving staff and, at a sit-down dinner, how many per table.

• How the wedding cake will be served.

• Number of tables and chairs and how they will be set up.

• Delivery charges, if any.

• Deadline for final guest count.

• Any overtime charges and when they would apply.

• Final cost and whether HST and gratuities are included.

• Decorations provided.

• Table linen choice.

• Whether coat check and valet parking are provided.

• Is food for band, disc jockey, photographer and videographer provided?

• Additional fees for setup and cleaning (if any).

• Cancellation clauses. WE Wedding Essentials 20 1 4 | 95

a real-life wedding

Shyla &Anthony THIS DRAMATIC WEDDING WAS A BALL... A MASQUERADE BALL! When Shyla Lang and Anthony Jean-Paul first met about seven years ago through mutual friends, they were dating other people. Neither imagined that they would end up married, but a few years ago, they reconnected after both had broken up with their exes the same week!

Was this destiny?

Their first date was to begin by meeting at Anthony’s place. The two sat down to talk for a few minutes before they left and before they knew it, it was 4 a.m. Shyla recounts that they “had been chatting and laughing for seven hours straight. It was insane!”.

PHOTOS: JEREMY CLAY PHOTOGRAPHY

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Wedding Wisdom

Setting the mood

E

nhance the mood at any reception with beautiful lighting. Find out the options at your venue. Beyond dimmer switches and table candles, can they bring in light fixtures to add an extra glow? Some venues will hang chandeliers, and some may allow you to bring in lanterns or strings of globes to hang which will create a soft yet exciting party atmosphere. WE

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a real-life wedding

MELTING PROPOSAL Anthony devised a plan that incorporated Shyla’s love of food.

Getting ready to leave on a road trip on a 30-plus Celsius June day, the couple fitted in last-minute errands. Anthony pretended that he forgot his cell phone and ran back into the house to arrange his surprise while Shyla waited in the car.

After the errands, Shyla had an armload of bags to carry upstairs but was stopped cold by the sight of a giant, chocolate-covered, edible fruit arrangement sitting on the dining room table...melting in the summer heat.

She went to get scissors to unwrap the fruit and noticed Anthony standing still, holding something in front of him. He was doing an up/down, up/down movement as if he couldn’t decide whether to sit or stand. Then he knelt, admitting that he didn’t know what to say. As Shyla relates, “anyone that has ever met Anthony, even once, knows that this never happens”.

He got out the proposal and she quickly said yes, “grabbing the ring and laughing”. They celebrated by eating the chocolate-covered fruit!

THE CEREMONY A retired pastor from Shyla’s childhood church and a family friend who is a pastor married the couple in a ceremony that reflected their beliefs and strong faith. Shyla hates being the centre of attention; Anthony had to smile as he saw his bride, in her words, “almost running” down the aisle lined with rose petals and black feathers. She was so nervous that Anthony needed to remind her to hug her dad at the same time as her father was saying “give me a hug, give me a hug” before the ceremony started.

The couple wrote their own vows which included these wonderful promises: “When I am angry I will seek to be kind.

When I speak I will be truthful. And each day of my life I will be faithful to you.”

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HIGH DRAMA Shyla and Anthony’s outgoing natures led them to choose a masquerade wedding, a theatrical theme incorporating intense colours and non-traditional elements. Table decorations included silver candelabra, black ostrich feathers, red roses and red and black masks to enhance the masquerade ambiance.

Guest favours were ornate gilded masks.

Anthony’s mask was Phantom-of-the-Opera in black; his groomsmen’s masks were identical except in white. The bride’s mask was black and silver with an ostrich feather and her bridesmaids’ masks were red and gold.

Shyla thought she would choose a very non-traditional gown, but instead she fell in love with a mermaid-style, ivory gown with a long train. A fabric rose with a high pick-up added Spanish flair for this Latina bride.

Her bridal attendants wore elegant black floor-length satin gowns that would have been very much at home at a Venetian masquerade ball. The women carried bouquets of deep crimson roses and black feathers, another uber-dramatic touch that accentuated the theme.

Guests loved “the overall style of the wedding. Everyone said it was so different, but they loved it. We got a lot of compliments about the food. Shyla’s Venezuelan food and Anthony’s island food were included with the other great options”.

Shyla admires “how confident and sure of himself Anthony is. I love that he can talk to and befriend anyone. Selfishly, I love how he makes me feel so loved and secure and protected, no matter what”.

Anthony loves “how compassionate Shyla is. She truly cares for the wellbeing of everyone in her life. I love that she always wants to help others and is truly selfless.

I love that she makes me be better”.

Shyla advises brides-to-be to remember that it’s “your day, your way. This only happens once. It’s for you and your husband so make it what you guys want.

Don’t let anyone guilt you into having or doing something that you don’t want”.

Grooms get this suggestion from Anthony: “Be your bride’s bodyguard. Make sure no one bullies her or talks her into doing things that she doesn’t want.”

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a real-life wedding

IN THE MOOD Hallowe’en is Shyla’s favourite time of year so the couple wanted to incorporate some of that “dark” mood into the wedding celebrations, but minus the macabre feeling. From the choice of venue through decisions for every element, the mood was captured by the masquerade ball theme.

The 1800s’ church-turned-event-hall was mostly lit by candlelight—votives, tea lights, and pillar candles. Black, red, gold and silver décor elements were very rich and dramatic. With no assigned seating, bistro tables and black leather chairs throughout the venue encouraged guests to mingle. The wedding party sat at a round head table in the middle of the room.

Everybody danced and partied non-stop at the reception— having a ball at the ball! WE BRIDE’S GOWN: Mori Lee Style 1063 | Bliss Bridal Boutique | 905.721.9775 GROOM’S TUX: Custom made | Gotstyle Menswear | 416.260.9696 FLOWERS: Graham’s Florist | 705.878.1276 VENUE: Berkeley Church | 416.361.9666 DJ: DJ Jason Chambers | 905.447.8622 PHOTOS: Jeremy Clay & Andy King | Jeremy Clay Photography | jclayphoto.com | 647.680.3168

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Wedding Essentials Invites Bride & Grooms to Stay in the Spotlight Planning your dream wedding or enjoying being a newlywed? Make the dream last...

Fortunate bridal couples chosen to be showcased in A REAL LIFE WEDDING feature in Wedding Essentials magazine will become wedding stars who: • Provide inspiration and ideas for other couples • Highlight elements of their wedding and reception, using great photographs from their photographer • Tell the unique story of their romance and wedding AUDITION: Tell us a bit about the two of you, your special wedding celebrations, your photographer, venue and other details LIGHTS: Enter your submission for a RLW by e-mailing it to RealLifeWeddings@weddingessentials.ca for evaluation by our editorial team CAMERA: We will request photographs from possible finalists ACTION: We will follow up on details with the winning submissions IT’S A WRAP: When the magazine hits the newsstands it’s time for bragging rights for everyone concerned...for the starring bridal couple and supporting cast who made your wedding fantasy a wonderful reality. Practice signing autographs...

RealLifeWeddings@weddingessentials.ca

inspiration

Mid-Summer

Dream Picnic EVEN THE ANTS WERE WELL-BEHAVED AT THIS DETAIL-ICIOUS CELEBRATION Planning a summer bridal shower or a super casual summer wedding? There is inspiration galore in this picnic-themed vow renewal/50th wedding anniversary celebration.

Jo-Anne and Don McNeill had a beautiful formal wedding decades ago. Their daughter Christie, big-city real estate lawyer by day, had planned her own Christmas wedding last year and was delighted once again to bring her creativity to the fore to plan a picnic celebration for her parents in a beautiful setting on the shores of Georgian Bay. From start to finish, the theme was picnic-perfect.

Invitations were brown paper bags with paper apples, sandwiches, and cartons of milk that gave all the details

PHOTOS: CHRISTIE McNEILL.

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about the party. Inside the party tent tables were decorated with red and white gingham and the bright colours of summer blooms. Guest favours were picnic baskets filled with goodies that included lollipops and Cadbury Picnic candy bars specially ordered from England.

A relief station for guests featured sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hats and ice cold beverages.

Personalized mason jars could be filled with ice tea, lemonade or fresh fruit punch. Even the ants were welcome at this picnic—they were celebrating atop the cake!

Congrats Jo-Anne and Don—and Christie too! Just looking at the images from this celebration brings smiles and inspiration. WE

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Wedding Wisdom

The Engagement & Wedding Rings

A

plain iron hoop was the forerunner of today’s wedding ring. The old Roman tradition was to give a ring as a symbol of the cycle of life and eternity. The ring also served as a public pledge that the marriage contract between man and woman would be honoured.

If you are like 85 percent of all Canadian brides, you’ll receive a diamond engagement ring. The average weight is about half a carat (47 points).

Diamonds are popular here. Canada has the highest acquisition rate for diamond engagement rings in the entire world.

It’s not essential to have an engagement ring, however. Some couples prefer to save money by combining the engagement ring and wedding ring into one.

If that’s your choice, go for a wider band set with a solitaire or inset with many small diamonds. Or forego diamonds entirely and choose a larger coloured stone such as a ruby, amethyst, sapphire or emerald. Such variations are particularly popular for second marriages.

In searching for the right ring it’s best to seek out a jeweller who has been in business for some time. Ask your friends and relatives whom they would recommend. Wherever you buy your ring, have the stone certified by an independent appraiser. If the jewellery store does not have a qualified appraiser on staff, make an independent appraisal a condition of sale and have it noted right on the bill.

Know how much you want to spend before you start shopping. The diamond industry says that an engagement ring should cost about two months’ salary, but you should spend an amount that you can be comfortable with. Look at the rings offered by several stores before you make a choice.

Don’t be pressured. If you cannot afford the ring you’d really like, you have three choices. (1) Choose a larger stone of lesser quality. (2) Buy a fake until you can afford the real thing. (3) Wait.

As you compare stones, record the gemologist’s designation for each one.

Check out various colours and grades but try to compare stones of similar size, colour and clarity grade. Then compare for price. Ask about the store’s policies regarding returns, guarantees and warranties. If your boyfriend is buying the ring without input from you, remind him to ask the jeweller to note right on the bill that the sale is conditional on you having the right to exchange it if you are not happy with the choice. The document should be signed and dated. For insurance purposes, the bill of sale will also need to show details of the purchase, including the weight, colour, clarity, size and cost. WE

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Wedding Wisdom

The Countdown Calendar

Y

our Wedding Day should be exciting, memorable and romantic. But it will only happen if you plan things carefully and allow enough time for everything. Here are some recommendations about when things should be done, that have been reprinted from The Bride’s Survival Guide which is available free of charge from Wedding Essentials by completing the card on page 83 of this magazine. Use this list as a general guideline that you can adapt in any way you choose:

TWELVE TO 24 MONTHS BEFORE • Select wedding date and time.

• Make a preliminary budget and determine how costs will be shared.

• Determine size of guest list, degree of formality and theme.

• Determine who will officiate at the ceremony and book him/her for rehearsal and wedding.

• Select caterer and/or reception location.

• Hire a wedding consultant if you plan to use one.

SIX TO 12 MONTHS BEFORE • • • • • • • • • • • •

Start compiling guest list.

Determine colour scheme.

Select bridal attendants and determine sizes.

Choose your dress and headpiece. Schedule fittings and delivery date.

Choose bridesmaids’ dresses and accessories.

Have fiancé select best man and ushers.

Select photographer, videographer and entertainment.

Choose ceremony music.

Select florist, balloonist, fireworks, ice sculpture.

Book transportation for wedding day.

Announce engagement in newspaper.

Shop for wedding rings.

FOUR MONTHS BEFORE • • • • •

Have mothers co-ordinate and select dresses.

Register at bridal registries.

Order invitations and personal stationery.

Complete guest lists.

Select men’s attire and reserve right sizes.

• Start planning honeymoon.

• Start planning for trousseau.

• Order wedding cake and groom’s cake if required.

• Order favours (bomboniere).

TWO MONTHS BEFORE • Address invitations and announcements.

Mail four to six weeks before.

• Finalize details with caterer/reception location, photographer, videographer, florist, DJ/musicians, band.

• Finalize ceremony details with officiant.

• Make rehearsal arrangements.

• Plan rehearsal dinner.

• Plan bridesmaids’ luncheon, if appropriate.

• Make appointments with hairdresser and make up artist.

• Arrange accommodations for out-of-town guests.

• Finalize honeymoon plans.

ONE MONTH BEFORE • Have final fitting for your gown and those of bridal attendants.

• Obtain marriage licence.

• Provide map to ceremony and reception to all guests.

• Have formal portrait taken.

• Purchase gifts for attendants, participants and fiancé.

• Have bridesmaids’ luncheon.

• Keep careful note of gifts received and write thank-you notes as they come in.

• Do inventory of accessories. Examples: Toasting goblets. Ring pillow. Garter. Candles.

• Select responsible person to oversee guest list and its location.

ONE WEEK BEFORE • Contact guests who have not responded.

• Give final count to hotel, banquet hall or caterer.

• Review details and timetables with vendors.

• Give photographer/videographer list of shots you want.

• Give DJ/musicians list of music for ceremony and reception.

• Plan seating arrangements.

• Practice having your hair done to make sure it comes out the way you want.

• Practice your makeup in lighting conditions similar to those on your wedding day.

• Keep writing those thank-you notes.

• Pack for the honeymoon.

• Check -that you have marriage licence.

• Check that you have wedding rings and that they fit.

• Check that all wedding attire fits and is picked up.

• Have a rehearsal with all participants reviewing their duties.

• Give officiant’s fee to best man.

• Pick up tickets and traveler’s cheques for honeymoon.

ON YOUR WEDDING DAY • • • • •

TWO WEEKS BEFORE

Eat something. Otherwise you might feel faint.

Take a relaxing bath.

Get your hair and nails done.

Allow time to prepare makeup.

Start dressing 1-1/2 hours before ceremony, two hours before if photographs are to be taken.

• Start music 30 minutes before ceremony.

• Seat groom’s parents five minutes before ceremony. Your mother is seated immediately before the processional and the aisle runner is rolled up.

• Attend to business and legal affairs.

Examples: Name change on driver’s licence and credit cards. Make a will.

• Move possessions and gifts to new address. Arrange with Canada Post to have mail forwarded.

• Finish addressing announcements to be mailed on wedding day.

• Send announcements and wedding picture to newspapers.

• Mail announcements.

• Write and mail thank-you notes.

• Arrange for gown, bouquet and/or cake preservation. WE

AFTER THE WEDDING

Wedding Essentials 20 1 4 | 107

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Asian Fusion THE PHRASE ASIAN FUSION is not only an apt description of the wedding celebrations of Sheena Fung and Derek Yamashita but also of this couple’s marriage. The Canadian duo paid tribute to Sheena’s Chinese cultural background and Derek’s Japanese family roots by incorporating traditional elements into their western-style wedding.

The day began with the Chinese tradition of the groom and his groomsmen arriving at the bride’s home to pick up the bride. Entry was refused until Sheena’s family and friends were satisfied by Derek and his guys fulfilling tasks, including wearing brilliant pink Hawaiian grass skirts while doing pushups. They also had to pick mahjong tiles out of a bucket of ice water. Given the nod for their prowess at

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SHEENA & DEREK

games, the guys then gave monetary gifts with values consisted only of 9s, since the number 9 represents eternity in the bride’s culture. Permitted entry at last, the groom went upstairs to claim his bride, who had been waiting there throughout the tests.

Following that was the Chinese tea ceremony where the couple expressed their gratitude to their elders, who gave them traditional Chinese red packets— envelopes containing money. They also received gold in the form of jewellery.

Sheena departed from tradition by not wearing a red qun kwa, a traditional twopiece wedding attire, but a red qi pao, called a mandarin gown in English—an embroidered-with-gold form-fitting gown with a side slit. The colour red symbolizes strength and good luck.

Derek’s Japanese heritage was celebrated by the wedding taking place at the Japanese Gospel Church of Toronto where the same pastor who married the groom’s mom and dad married Sheena and Derek.

Japanese elements included cherry blossom centrepieces, reminiscent of hanami in Japan, and dessert table sweet sushi. Guests were treated to rainbow rolls, glitter rolls and coca maki, sweets wrapped in fruit leather, not seaweed as for savoury sushi. WE Sheena & Derek, thank you for sharing your vision of your Asian Fusion wedding. We wish you much happiness in the years ahead...and many more fascinating celebrations!!