2
Guardian www.guardian.co.tt June/July, 2013
3
Dear Readers, Weddings have always fascinated me, be it the grand event or the small intimate family affair. Each memory to the final events are filled with emotions of anxiety, happiness and so much love. Planning for your wedding is a daunting task, however if you follow the helpful advice inside we trust that your planning will be as effortless as the love that you both share. In this month’s issue, our cover is graced by the beautiful Gabrielle Walcott and her lucky husband Lee Pollonais. We send out special congratulations to the lovely couple and all the newlyweds. If you are getting married in the near future we also send our heartfelt blessing to you. Please feel free to share your story or images, send them to lisa.jessamy@guardian.co.tt. Be sure to look out for more great tips and wedding advice in Wedding Bells magazine on the last Saturday of every month. Lisa Jessamy
Associate Editor Special Publications Unit
SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS UNIT (SPU) SPU PRODUCER: Tracey Alonzo tracey.alonzo@guardian.co.tt HEAD OF DESIGN: Denise Baptiste ASSOCIATE EDITORS Lisa Jessamy Halcian Pierre CONTRIBUTORS: Kaelanne Jordan, Akiela Hope Christine Dalkan, Lindsay Ebbin LAYOUT/DESIGN Denise Baptiste Raquel Vasquez La Roche PHOTOGRAPHY: COVER, PAGE 3, PAGES 8 & 9 Celeste Hart Photography PAGE 15 Andros Belfonte Photography SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS ENQUIRIES: spu1 @guardian.co.tt
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER (SPU) Sonja Romany sonja.romany@guardian.co.tt 623-8872 ext. 2928
Lee & Gabrielle The Basics • GETTING MARRIED • HOW TO NEGOTIATE CONTRACTS
4
Bridal Registry ELEGANT WEDDING IDEAS
5
The Ceremony • TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE YOUR DAY MEMORABLE • AFFORDABLE WAYS TO PRINT YOUR INVITATIONS
6
Beauty VIBE BEAUTY MAKEUP TIPS
7
Wedding Wisdom ASK OMARINE Q&A
10
Ideas and Inspiration • FABRIC FLOWER CONTAINERS • THE BEST WEBSITES
11
New Media • NEW TRENDS IN MEDIA (VIDEOGRAPHY) • ELEVEN QUESTIONS TO YOU SHOULD ASK ANY PHOTOGRAPHER
12
Celebrations • HOW TO HAVE A STAG PARTY ON A BUDGET • CREATIVE CAKES 13 Honeymoons LOVE IN TOBAGO
14
Wedding Bliss PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE MONTH
15
4
Kaelanne Jordan
Generally, contracts are important– especially when it comes to your wedding and making sure every last detail and agreement is down in writing. When it comes to contracts for weddings, there are general guidelines that should be followed. A legally binding contract will protect both the consumer and vendor so it’s important to know the ins and outs of the wedding contract lingo. In this issue of Wedding Bells, we chat with Melena Simon- O'Neil- Manager/ Principal Consultant at Emerald Designs and Event Services as she shares some guidelines on how to review, read and negotiate your wedding contract. The contract should include the following items: • Full company name, address and phone number of the vendor • Name of bride and groom and/ or person engaging the service ( representative)
Marriage is the union of a man and woman as husband and wife. The couple is formally recognised as husband and wife through the legal, religious and social processes attached to marriage. There are four kinds of marriages recognised in Trinidad and Tobago:. • Civil Marriage • Hindu Marriage • Muslim Marriage • Orisha Marriage Civil, Muslim and Orisha marriages must be performed by a licensed Marriage Officer. Marriage Officers are ordained ministers of a recognised religious denomination or organisation. Civil marriage is the most common form of marriage in Trinidad and Tobago and can be performed by a Marriage Officer, Warden or the Registrar General. All Christian marriages performed in a church are civil marriages, provided the presiding minister is a licensed Marriage Officer. Please contact the Registrar General for information on Muslim, Hindu and Orisha marriages. You must be 18 years of age to marry in Trinidad and Tobago, but exemptions may be granted on religious grounds. The minimum age for Muslim marriages is 12 years old. The minimum age for Hindu marriages is 16 years old. Please contact the Registrar General for information on how to apply for an age exemption.
How do I arrange a Civil Marriage? Couples wanting to get married must first give Notice of Marriage in person at a Civil Registry office. This includes those who wish to get married through a religious ceremony in a church. Please follow the link below for Civil Registry office locations. If you are subject to Immigration Control you must contact the Registrar General at (868) 624-1660 as you will require permission to marry in this country.
Before giving Notice of Marriage you must: • Make an appointment to give notice in person at the registrar's office. • Know the venue for your marriage, such as a registrar's office, church or other location.
You need to bring the following documents to your appointment: • Permission to marry if you are not a National of Trinidad & Tobago. • Evidence of identity - such as a National ID Card, Driver's Permit or Passport. • Proof of address - such as a utility bill. At least seven days must have elapsed from the date of giving notice before the marriage can take place. The notice is valid for one year.
Have you been married before? If you have been married before, evidence that the marriage has ended will need to be seen (i.e. original decree absolute for divorce or death certificate, if your spouse has died).
What fees do I need to pay? The cost for a marriage license is TT$62.50. You must also pay an additional TT$25.00 to obtain a certified copy of the Marriage Certificate.
Advice to foreign nationals When either or both parties to the mar-
riage are not citizens of Trinidad and Tobago, they should contact the Registrar General's Office before giving Notice of Marriage. Getting married in Trinidad and Tobago or to a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago gives no automatic right to remain or reside in the country.
Where can I find more information? For more information on Civil Marriages, or for information on Muslim, Hindu or Orisa marriages, please contact: Registrar General's Office Registration House South Quay Port of Spain Trinidad, West Indies Tel. (868) 624-1660
• Bride & Groom and/ or representative address, telephone, email, etc • Date and time of the wedding and reception • Description of Services provided with as much detail listed as possible. ( For example on a transportation contract, instead of having the limo arrive on the correct date, its better to make sure the exact time of pick-up and drop- off times and locations is noted in the contract) • Conditions – the role of the wedding planner and restrictions • Compensation – total fees, initial deposit and payment schedule • Terms – include liability and legal issues
Opening hours: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday, except public holidays.
• Cancellation/Change Policy/ Postponements
Registrar General Division Central Administrative Services, Tobago (CAST) Jerningham Street Scarborough Tobago, West Indies Tel. (868) 639-2652-7 Fax. (868) 639-2505 E-mail: cast1@tstt.net.tt
• ‘Act of God’ clause
Opening hours: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday, except public holidays. Ministry of Legal Affairs Information courtesy www.ttconnect.gov.tt/
• Signatures of both clients Once you have created your standard contract, have your attorney review it. A lawyer can also point out the omission of important terms or clauses that protect you. Remember, you should have a contract for all vendors (venue, florist, photographer etc).
5
Your wedding registry can be the most fun you have in the planning process for your big day but can also be daunting. Here are a few tips to start you off on the right foot. DO: Set up your registry early.
“From the moment you announce your engagement, friends and family will want to send gifts,” some come in as early as the first week!
DO: Register for a wide range of gifts at various price points.
People prefer choosing from a large selection: Make sure that you have gifts that can combine into kits so a guest can give you a “baking package” with a number of smaller items in them. Most guests also want to buy you a single item so make sure the registry breaks up traditional items like your dinner set into place settings.
DO: Request nontraditional items if they reflect you as a couple.
More and more couples already have some of the major pieces for a home, feel free to register for things like decor, throw pillows and new bedding to complete your joint style transition.
DON’T: Eliminate all time-honoured items.
There are limits: Feelings are still very mixed on items such as gadgets and electronics, which don’t fit the old-fashioned criteria as nest-building necessities. To avoid ruffling any feathers, throw in at least a handful of traditional items to appease the old-school types who simply won’t be satisfied attending unless it’s with a blender or crystal bowl in hand.
Lotus prides itself on being a one of a kind shopping experience that can guide you through all this and much more. With an extensive range of options and a staff to walk you through every step. With online registry options, decor, dinner ware, appliances and more, we can meet your every possible registry need. Go to www.lotuswares.com to get a sneak peek, like us on Facebook for great tips and ideas or come into the store today at #1 Christina Court, Boisierre Village, Maraval - call (868) 222-5580 for directions or email us at lotuswares@gmail.com
All products are available at Lotus Wares.
6
Akiela Hope
Ceremony tips are just a guide to having a memorable wedding day. However since it is not set in stone, you and your loved one can sit together and plan out some of the things that are a must have/see/do at your wedding. To give you a gist of some of the tips, Beverly Clark, renowned wedding planner and author, shares some of her expert advice for planning a wedding to remember. • Personalise your ceremony by writing your own vows, or surprise each other by reading a poem or letter that expresses your love for one another, or special moments that were memorable.
• When carrying your bouquet down the aisle remember to rest your arms on top of your hipbone to prevent your arms from rising and having your bouquet to high.
• Incorporate symbolism of family heritage or tradition. Perhaps carry or wear something that your mothers carried down the aisle. Have a special song played that was part of your parent’s ceremony.
• Celebrate the union of joining your lives together as one with a candle lighting or sand ceremony.
• Show your appreciation and love by surprising both mothers with a flower taken from your bouquet as you walk down the aisle, symbolizing uniting the two families. • Lighting is a key element in setting the mood of any event. Get creative with up lights, spotlights, or gels that reflect images onto a dance floor or wall. Candles always give a warm glow and romantic effect.
Courtesy http://www.bridalguide.com
Christine Dalkan
To print a self-made wedding invitation that says I-did-this-with-love, remember that the two most important elements are choosing the right paper and the right design. Here’s how you do it:
Choose elegant stationery: Remember to Consider readability when choosing your perfect colour – also consider cost. Yes, textured paper instantly elevates your invitations to the next level but smooth/matte ivory cardstock can also give your invitations an elegant and formal look. For guidance, read ‘How to Choose the Best Paper for your Printable Wedding Invitations’ on Wedding Lovely blog. Choose FREE elegant fonts
Fonts can change the look of your wedding invitations. Usually two fonts are enough – a script and
a block. For free elegant fonts, check ‘Free Fonts for DIY Wedding Invitations’ on the Elegance and Enchantment website. This article has links for free downloads of many different fonts for personal use only.
Invest in a paper cutter
Use this to cut your invitations down to size. This may come in handy in the future as well for more DIY projects.
Add décor elements
Use high-end clip art to make your invitations look fancy. You can wrap each invitation with pretty ribbon. If you can get your hands on a gold leafing pen, you can even add gold accents – add gold edges to your invitations or even to the corners of the envelopes.
7
The Billion dollar wedding season is well under way and what better way to address your makeup needs for your special day. and it will contour your face It all starts with the as well as warm up your skin wedding dress, then tone. bride’s maid’s colours, flower choices, theme of wedding and the type of makeup whether it’s naturalsoft-romantic-heavylongwear, and also The most important shine free, matte or makeup embellishment glowing. What about would have to be on the eyes. the hair? Should it be Lindsay Ebbin It will draw in your audience. down, up, have extenVice President and Global Selecting the right eye Creative Director sions, weaves, short, shadow colour is key, so enlong, curly, wavy, side sure they are not too bright part, sheen finish or overly dark and dramatic, cream and/or lots of hair spray or gel? based eye shadows can separate in Should the venue be outdoors or inthe heat and build up in the crease doors? Not to mention accessories... areas – not good for a wedding day there’s the veil, tiaras, flowers in the application. Some brides thrive on hair, and the list keeps multiplying having a super smoky eye and vibrant (and so does one’s budget). eye shadows. The key thing to remember is; the more products on your face means more messes from the affections of your wedding guests (plus tearful moments that will deUse a semi matte or matte moismand corrective touch up tools that turizer and then apply a primer, it will will help you maintain a clean fresh hold the foundation, powder or conlook all day long). cealer or all three for a longer camera Use eye shadows with deep pigready finish to the skin. Most imporments and staying power that work tantly, primers and or moisturizers rewill with your skin tone: brown, copduce dryness which when you put on per, blue, green, plum are industry powder or water based foundation distandards. Use a highlight below the rectly on skin. Without them, your brow bone and on the inner corner of skin will appear flaky and dry which is the eyes closest to the nose, they act not a good look for direct sunlit picas reflectors and add light to your tures. eyes, they are also great for blending Also, if you use a sunscreen, redeeper eye shadows. member some sunscreens can block the skin and lead to breakouts or give an ashy look to the skin. I would recommend mixing it in with your moisturizer or foundation to reduce the whiteness of them: it’s like customizing your own formula to serve a greater purpose in protecting the skin against the free radical rays of the sun. Another rule of thumb is that water based foundations are better for the skin because they will not give you a dull look or accentuate lines on the face. In the Caribbean, the skin needs are shine reduction, especially to the T-Zone area which is prominent in most Caribbean and South American A liquid eyeliner creates a bold retro brides. This process of utilizing a good look to the eye. The thicker the liner, foundation formula that looks even the potentially more dated it would with your neck tone will support your appear, and the lower eyelid width will base wear plan to provide you with a decrease in size. A smaller, thinner line flawless finish to the skin. Have a will add depth and thickness to your powder available for shine or lashes and provide a long stay look. If touchups during the day for a fresh you chose to use a pencil, ensure it is up keep on your makeup. sharpened to create a smooth line, and the harder the pencil feels on the eyes, the cheaper the quality, so alA lot of women want a natural look ways use a softer pencil so as not to to their skin or a sun-kissed appeardamage the thinner skin around the ance. Most makeup artists advise not eye area. to use self-tanners and spray tans before your wedding day, because the fake tan will potentially rub off on the Defining your brows with a powder wedding dress, especially under the or pencil that matches your hair color arms and staining the dress. Instead, is key. If your hair is coloured red it warm the skin with a bronzer. Use a does not mean use a red colour on bronzer underneath the cheekbones,
Eyes are the windows to your soul
Foundation blocks to the skin
Line with confidence
Faking a Tan
Framing your face
your brows. (You can, but it could make appear like a clown.) Brows need to look natural; tones in Ebony, Sable, Brown, Fawn, and Blonde are good colours to use in a brow pencil or powder. If you have no brows then all the more reason to create a brow; it will frame your eyes and face.
Lash Lux The final finish is Mascara, and what would a girl do without it? Sometimes mascara can be all you need with a little blush and gloss if you want to go, “oh natural”. Super definition, lengthening, volume and density are keys to good mascara, but for your wedding day, a waterproof or smudge proof formula helps to keep your mascara from running. Remember build your mascara slowly on your lashes; clumpy lashes are not attractive on your wedding day.
Get Cheeky Highlight your cheekbones starting from the hairline working outwards to below and on your apples of your cheeks – less is more – and build accordingly. Having a blush is key for touchups later and tones in Pink, Coral, Cayenne, and Plum are beautiful for a bride. If you want a highlighted shimmer, place that above the apple of the cheek between the eye area and cheekbones. That soft glow will add the JLO glow to your skin. Shimmers or highlighters can come in crème, liquid or powder in pressed or loose versions.
Lip Love Lastly your lips; with a plethora of lip products on the market, look for a creamy longwear pigment that is nondrying. Apply a complimenting lip gloss to ensure your lips don’t look dehydrated and cracked. Exfoliating your
lips the evening before with a wet towel removes dead skin and lip pumices are readily available to address exfoliation of the lips as well. To maintain a long lasting effect on the lip you can fill in your whole lip with a lip liner that will hold the colour all day long and even out any discolored areas on the lip. Quick Rule of thumb: exfoliate – kohl lip liner – creamy luxury lipstick and gloss, and you will have Angelina Jolie lips that will be the envy of the world.
Cinderella moment My recommendation is have a consultation prior to your wedding day with an artist and or practice leading up to it, numerous salons, spas and cosmetic shops help to support your day. Having an expert do your makeup and hair will relieve undue stress for you and your wedding party. Remember, it’s your day to look and feel your best being a VIBE Beauty.
VIBE Beauty [Music + Fashion=Beauty] http://www.shopvibebeauty.com/ lindsayebbin@yahoo.com vibebeauty@gmail.com Facebook, Twitter, You Tube, Instagram
9
8
Lisa Jessamy
Once in a lifetime true love finds us. Not only does it bring two people together, it also brings families and friends together and a new world of experiences of love begins. Here is how a fairytale wedding starts… Gabrielle… I have my B.A. from the University of the West Indies in Visual and Theatre Arts, I am actually really excited to focus on my art career now that my pageant career is over. I have an obsession with the ocean and seascapes and I love the effect oils give me when painting waves. One of my seascapes, Pigeon Point is currently displayed on the Oval wall and it will be really exciting to experiment further and see what I can contribute to Trinidad and Tobago's art world.
A bit about the Groom… Lee Andre Phillip Pollonais and I share a birthday, today June 26 but 9 years apart! We met through a mutual friend, and I instantly fell in love with his sense of humour. Lee definitely has a need for speed and really enjoys racing boats, motor bikes and cars, but competes professionally in the Trinidad and Tobago Great Race where he has won his speed class a couple times. It gets me incredibly nervous and excited as well. Lee and his brother coown a couple companies Oil Mop Processing a company that recycles used hydro carbons and are shareholders in Dream the trendiest and newest restaurant and Lounge in San Fernando who can boast winning the recent "Best bar experience" at the recent Trinidad and Tobago Table Talk Food Awards 2013.
What she loves about him… I love his constant love of life and laughter and the soft generous side only his friends and family take the time to see.
The proposal… Lee and I went to mas on Christmas Eve together with his family, after we went to his folks for traditional Christmas Eve dinner and we were all gathered around the Christmas tree. I was taking pictures of his nieces and nephews in front the Christmas tree when I felt a tug on my dress I knew it was him and spanked away his hand, warning him not to shake the camera but then I heard his sister scream and I spun around to see him on one knee, I was in total disbelief as I had already gotten the most amazing Christmas gift a week earlier and a hot red BMW and couldn't imagine receiving anything else. This was way better, it was the most incredible Christmas, one I will never forget.
Where did you get your dress and accessories? I had the lucky opportunity to go to Miracle Mile in Miami to shop for my dress and accessories.
What was the experience like… I thought it was be the most difficult thing finding the right dress. I've been lucky enough to wear many amazing dresses for the pageants and I wanted to find one that felt even more special for the most important and day of my life. Lee's sister took me to the store where she was lucky enough to fall in love with the very first dress she tried on and it must be some lucky store because I fell head over heels for the very first dress as well.
The wedding venue… Lee and I got married in the beautiful St. Peter’s church overlooking the ocean in Point a Pierre and we had our reception at the Petrotrin Staff Club, where there is a stunning ballroom that has been there for many years and has an old grandeur that I fell in love with.
The wedding day theme... It was a stunning all white wedding with lots of lights and crystals. I wanted it to feel and look like a dream.
Hardest part of your wedding planning... Being located in South and my family in Port of Spain. I missed them so much and wanted to share my day to day planning with them. I also don't know how to thank all the people, family and friends who helped make it possible, enough, I hope they know how grateful we are for our fairytale day.
Best part of the wedding planning... Seeing it all come together just like your dreams, and getting together with family to wrap cake boxes, bag almonds, try on dresses, it really brings family together.
Special Touches... Brian Gopaul and Reiaz Mohammed co owners of Elite Planners Ltd. were my reception decor geniuses and they really put a lot of effort into the special little touches that made it all feel like a fairytale, from the submerged orchids in the centrepiece vases to the huge signing picture as you entered it really was a dream come true. I loved my cake and the violin cocktail reception as well.
Most memorable Moments... I really loved my first dance, my cousin Michelle Xavier sang a version of Adele's Lovesong it was amazing and Lee turned to me in an intimate moment and whispered he felt like we were the only ones in the room.
Any “Wish I had not" done?... No, I have no regrets it was perfect but no one can prepare you enough for how quickly it goes I heard it a million times before my wedding day but you just don't know until it's happening to you.
Money Saving Methods... Get you family involved, my uncle baked my give away cakes. It was my grandmother's Christmas recipe it was both money saving and a very special way that my grandmother could be there with me on that day.
Advice for brides to be... Document it all, I wish I took pictures of my family baking and boxing the cakes, bagging the almonds, trying on dresses, suits and shoes, because this is all part of the memory and just as special to have your family with you as you are beginning your own.
10
Omarine Nanan
Q: My family and friends have
offered to help me plan and coordinate for my Christian wedding to save cost. I have some serious concerns, but don't want to offend anyone. We have decorators, cooks, florists, photographers, bakers in the family and cost is a major concern with a guest list of 200. What should I do? Ashleigh P San Fernando
A: Dear Ashleigh, You should be extremely concerned, especially with such a large guest list. You can trim your guest list if you wish. Family and friends may mean well and know your tastes but they may be only available when they are free and not be able to devote as much time as you would like. When things go wrong and they often will, it may ruin relationships and there is often little time to implement a contingency plan. Use their help where possible. For instance get the florists to be in charge of your centrepieces and decorations and do not overlap
their functions. Let them know deadlines and duties as well as the right colours and shades that you prefer. Consider if the cooks in your family can prepare the dishes you want, use them at the reception and to serve as well. They are also guests who may want to enjoy the wedding and slaving hard over big pots may not be feasible for the big day. Will they have serving dishes, plates, linens, cutlery, etc.? They may be able to prepare ample food for the guests but can they handle the serving service for appetizers, main course, sweets etc. If you have a baker- wedding cakes, pastries and sweets can be done way in advance.
“There are many economical projects that you can do before the big day. Arrangements, fresh flowers and some fun craft items to keep the kids occupied. Visit one of the many craft stores and you may get some fantastic ideas...” A: Dear Janice,
Q: Dear Omarine,
My husband is Hindu and I am Presbyterian. How can I incorporate the two religions for harmonious weddings without offending anyone? We are getting married in a temple and then in a church on different days with food and entertainment after each day. Janice Chaguanas
In every area of your wedding you can create a harmonious incorporation of your tastes or you can keep the ideas somewhat separate. I expect for the Hindu wedding you will wear the traditional Indian Lengha, Sari to match your Dulaha and have Indian food, sweets, decor etc. No meats and no alcohol are served. The Christian wedding will mean the cost of wedding dress (white normally) and your Groom in a suit - as well as bridesmaids, flower girls, groomsmen, page boys etc. Your decor for each day should be different and weddings are done with different themes in mind. Use the expert advice of family and friends on both sides to incorporate them and strike a beautiful balance. Have fun on your days.
Q: Dear Omarine,
What DIY projects can I undertake as a cost cutting measure? My guest list is approximately 100 adults and kids and everything is held at the church hall. Sally M. Maraval
A: There are many economical projects that you can do before the big day. Arrangements, fresh flowers and some fun craft items to keep the kids occupied. Visit one of the many craft stores and you may get some fantastic ideas that keep kids interested during the speeches. A candy table with bags and baskets can be given at the end of the meal, so the parents can then work out all that hyper- activity. Linens, runners, napkins can be coordinated, rented or made beforehand. I have seen kids ecstatic with fish bowl centrepieces with colourful gold-fishes and fighter fishes. Tokens can be selected for girls and boys that will also keep them busy and be cost-effective at the same time. Feel free to contact me if you need further advice or send your questions: omarinenanan@yahoo.com.
11
These fabric covered flower containers are super easy to make and very inexpensive. Get a container, then add fabric and you have an instant decor piece for your wedding. Pick the fabric, twine or ribbon, and flowers based on your wedding colours to make them completely custom. They are perfect for hanging on the chairs along the aisle. What you need: Supplies: Containers, spray mount, fabric, twine, scissors, and flowers.
What to do: Step 1: Cut a piece of fabric 14” x 9”
Step 2: Using the spray mount, go outside and spray the entire container. Make sure to spray a little on the inside rim as well.
Step 3: Take your fabric and tightly wrap it around your container. Make sure to press the fabric firmly against the container and smooth out creases and air bubbles. Tuck the fabric at the top inside the container. Then cut off any excess in the back to make a smooth line.
Step 4: Add twine or ribbon by tying it around the “hook” on the back of the container.
Step 5:
Project created by Dolci Odille Source: http://www.oncewed.com
Add flowers!
Christine Dalkan
www.theknot.com
www.trinidadweddings.com
If you own an iPhone or iPad, you can download The Knot’s free app to access free wedding advice on the go. Sounds like every bride’s dream, next to a pair of Jimmy Choos and a Vera Wang gown. Here you can get all the Wedspiration you need.
Here’s a local feel on all things wedding. From planning the big day to shopping, having a themed wedding, booking your wedding photo shoot and 2013 wedding trends, this website is chuck full of great wedding advice.
www.weddingwire.com
Offers easy-to-use wedding planning tools. Sign up for a free account and use the wedding budget tool to stay on track with expenses and past and future payments. Click on the tab ‘songs’ and get advice on prelude songs, processional songs, bride entrance songs and much more. Join their forums where brides and sometimes, even grooms reach out to other couples who’ve already tied the knot to get some much-needed wedding advice.
www.modwedding.com
Get free wedding advice and etiquette tips from wedding professionals. Learn all about what’s popular and trending in terms of bridal bouquets, hairstyles, shoes and centerpieces. What’s more, get tips on how to liven up your wedding menu and how to achieve the elegant and sophisticated bridal look.
www.caribbeanweddings.com
The wedding isn’t the only thing you’re planning of course – there’s the honeymoon! This website is the goto for honeymoon packages and wedding packages anywhere in the Caribbean. This way, you don’t have to do all the work, you just have to choose a destination suited to your budget.
12
Stories by Christine Dalkan
Keeping snapshots of your wedding day in a photo album is one great way of preserving the memories of this special day forever. But what about the funny and even the weird toasts, the tearyeyed speech by your mother and the first dance as husband and wife? That’s where wedding videography comes in. Like fine wine, videography keeps getting better with time. Technology is one thing that is never at a standstill, there are always new and innovative ways to do things are always on the horizon. Here are a few new trends in videography:
The Marryoke trend Marryoke is a play on the words ‘marriage’ and ‘karaoke’. The bride, groom and pretty much, the entire wedding party lip-synchs to a chosen song at various intervals throughout the wedding. The footage is taped, and then edited into a mock music video. In the most memorable category, this beats the standard wedding video hands-down. Check out: YouTube: Perfect Day Marryoke - Paul and Clodagh - One Direction + Shayne Ward
Mixing film and photos Combine still shots with wedding footage to add texture to your wedding video. You can even enhance the still shots to appear 3D so that it’s hard to identify what is film and what are photos.
Wedding outtakes The trend in the movie world seems to be outtakes; the funny or silly moments caught on video during the production. Why not include such goofy moments during your wedding caught on video in an outtake section. This is sure to elicit a few laughs from everyone…
Love story Use a soundtrack that is significant
to your relationship in the background…still shots of both of you as a couple during the courtship period along with video of the wedding. This way, instead of making a dry documentary, you would have immortalised your love story in film.
Moving slideshows Your videographer can use photos of the bride and groom to make a video slide show, intercut with fun narration or borders.
Vintage video Use old video footage or still shots from your parents’ weddings (both bride’s and groom’s parents) as well as photos of both bride and groom as babies to create the intro into you wedding video. And remember everything looks better in black and white… well not everything, but you know what we mean. This way, you tell your story from the beginning.
Scrapbook If you’re the kind of couple who keeps little keepsakes from your relationship, like the seashell he gave you the first time both of you went to the beach together, give these to the videographer to scan and include in the video. You can also include the paper you wrote your vows on and a copy of your wedding invitation.
Eleven questions you should ask any
photographer Your wedding day is one of the most memorable days of your life. Hiring the right photographer is essential to capturing these special memories forever. When shopping around for a photographer, asking these important questions will help you to make the right decision. After all, you want this day to be perfect. Charles Scott, photographer and owner of Scott’s Photography Industries has helped capture this unique moment for many brides and grooms over the years. He shares with Wedding Bells 11 important questions every bride/groom should ask their potential wedding photographer: 1) Ask to see samples of work done edited and unedited 2) What are the costs and packages for photography\video? 3) Who owns the rights \ Copyright or legal rights to images? 4) Are we entitled to all the photographs taken or just the images we choose from the proofs? 5) What is the cut off time for photography at our wedding? 6) Do you work with an assistant or by yourself and how will you be dressed? 7) What is your style of photography e.g. photo journalistic candid, artistic traditional? 8) Do you do photo-retouching? 9) What is the deadline for payment to confirm booking for the wedding?
10) How many years’ experience do you have in wedding photography and how many weddings do you do a year? 11) How long after the wedding can we view our photographs?
Tips to reduce your photo expense 1) Do not choose the most expensive package the photographer offers choose the package that goes well with your budget. 2) Find a photographer who will sell you the digital copies separately so that you can use great photos taken by relatives and friends in your photo album as well.
13
Akiela Hope
So you’re the best man and you have to plan the Stag party. You are not sure what to do, where to go and how to start, the only ‘know’ that you are sure about is that you want it to be grand. But here comes the ‘oops’, money/budget is limited. So how are you going to work this one out? Wedding Bells decided to speak with an events expert to help enlighten potential stag party planners on throwing the best party ever… Candy Coated Events is an intimate event management company that specialises in executing economical events for our all their clients. Candace N. Guppy, event coordinator explains that having a bachelor party could be the recipe for disaster but if people follow her tips one can be to have an extraordinary last SINGLE night for the groom-to-be.
VENUE: • Utilise the “bachelor pad" of one of the groomsmen. NB. Ensure he lives alone or has the house to himself that night. • Depending on the number of invitees you can hire a Maxi (24 Seat) or a Bus (50 Seat) for the night and do a Bar Bus Crawl.
BAR: • No bartender is necessary - it's guys and unlike Bachelorettes there is no need for fancy cocktails and wines so let your
guests just pour and drink up • Ask each attendee to bring a bottle of their finest alcohol to keep the vibes flowing. • Do a survey before asking the drinking preferences so as to avoid over buying of drinks. • Get your basic chasers and lots of water to sober up after - no driving under the influence.
FOOD: • Contrary to popular belief ‘Guys Who
www.allthelittledetailsdesigns.com
www.cakechooser.com
confectionerycakeshop.wordpress.com
www.onewed.com
cathy.snydle.com
Cook’ are many - we are pretty sure one of your buddies can bubble a good Oil Down or Curry Duck - decide on what you want to eat and have one or two of the guys contribute a dish/pot. Only one full meal and two finger foods (cutters) OR five (5) different types of finger foods (cutters) are necessary for a five (5) hour party. • If step #1 doesn't work out, one of the buddies must have a mom willing to sponsor a dish or two - utilise all your contacts! • If step #1 nor #2 works – you can call a local caterer who is pretty good at doing local, tasty finger foods on a tight budget.
ENTERTAINMENT: • It is most important to ASK. This business isn't big in Trinidad and hence the quality is sub-par often leaving clients feeling as though they've wasted funds that could have been spent elsewhere. Depending on the groom's taste you can either contact your 'local entertainment coordinator' for maximum two (2) female
performers but for a more subdued and tasteful approach see #2 • There is a fitness club (located in Port of Spain) that provides structured and coordinated female entertainment shows for private parties and this is definitely a suggested option for getting your money's worth (as opposed to #1) • Through Events companies such as Candy Coated Events, you can secure a top local DJ (Dei Musicale) along with equipment at an affordable rate – these DJ’s will surely make up for any shortcomings IF you ignore some recommended steps.
DECOR: • A few basic LED Lights can be rented • No other Decor is necessary (if on a budget)
GENERAL INFO: • Ask each invitee to contribute to the hosting of the Bachelor party, the acceptable amount per person is $350 TT - the groomsmen usually chip in more.
14
Congratulations to Vishnu and Margaret Braithwaite-Dhundar Married on 1st April, 2013 At Grace Family Fellowship Ministry, Mafeking, Mayaro.
If You Are Dreaming Of The Ultimate Destination Wedding
Balmy nights with spectacular sunsets over the Caribbean Sea and days lazing on deserted, palm fringed beaches. No where in the Caribbean is more romantic for a wedding and honeymoon than Tobago.
Think
M Tobago’s newest resort specializes in delivering dreams. The choice of locations both indoors and out provides you with the perfect resort. The diverse and delicious menus to choose from are amazing. And the quality of food and service is simply the best. Dreams are delivered here.
THE GRAND WEDDING • 3 Day / 2 Night accommodations for the couple in a Deluxe Oceanfront Room
AGDALENA GRAND Rate: $1,399 USD per couple valid through December 18, 2013 (includes all taxes & service charges)
SPECIAL WEDDING OFFER: Book 5 rooms and Bride & Groom will receive a Complimentary Upgrade to a One Bedroom Oceanfront Suite!
• Full Cooked Buffet Breakfast • Minister Fee • Decorated Wedding Arch • Bridal Bouquet & Boutonniere
For Reservations and Information:
• Wedding Cake – 10’’ Single Tier
Phone: 868-660-8500 Fax: 868-660-8503 E-Mail: Weddings@MagdalenaGrand.com
• Sparkling Wine & Chocolate Covered Strawberries in room • Resort Remembrance Gift
Tobago Plantations Estate, Lowlands, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies
www.MagdalenaGrand.com
Tobago can cater for the most intimate of weddings or larger affairs with family and friends. The island has boutique hotels and villas as well as larger resorts if your guest list is extensive. In many of the hotels, the ceremony and reception venue comes free. Accommodation is reasonably priced, meaning you can have the wedding you want, regardless of budget. For couples coming from Trinidad, Tobago offers excellent value. Guests can make a long weekend, allowing them to take in trips, explore the island or just relax. Alternatively guests can fly back after an overnight stay if time is limited. They can also arrive by ferry with their own cars, although there are plenty of rental agencies. Tobago can cater to your exact wedding style. Many of the larger hotels hold formal weddings. Or if you'd rather something more intimate then why not exchange vows on one of Tobago's stunning beaches like Pigeon Point or in the tropical surroundings of the garden in your chosen villa or hotel.
After the special day the bride and groom need look no further for their honeymoon. You can choose to spend your newly married days together in the privacy of a villa or if you prefer in a hotel. Many offer excellent rates if you choose to marry there too. Whatever the style of your wedding book early. You can organise everything yourself or in conjunction with the hotel/villa. Alternatively hire a professional wedding planner. Make travel arrangements well in advance, especially if your wedding falls on a public holiday. Make sure all the flight and ferry tickets and accommodation is booked before going firm on a date. Getting married in 2013 – look no further than Tobago. You'll treasure the memories forever. The Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association is an excellent place for advice. To find out more about Tobago or to book your stay visit the Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association's new website at www.tobagohoteltourism.com or phone 868 639 9543.
15
The book of Photography is written in the language of passion. Its emotions being love, sadness, anger, joy and other elements, without which it is impossible to attain the desired effect; without which there is only a path wandering through a dark labyrinth. A well-known icon in Trinidad’s Entertainment circuit, Andros is no stranger to photography having captured images from the busy streets of Manhattan to the picturesque isle of Bequia. An Engineer by day, his passion has always been photography and travelling. A pioneer in the off-camera lighting era, he is
widely regarded as one of the most prolific wedding photographers in the region delivering images that are vibrant, crisp, and packed with excitement and creativity. In 2013 he was featured as one of the photographers from the regional television series “Caribbean's Next Top Model" and his Facebook Fanpage crossed 30,000 fans making it the largest in the Caribbean for a photographer. www.andros1978.com facebook/AndrosPhotography
16
Guardian www.guardian.co.tt June/July, 2013