May Planning Guide

W I N N I P EG

F R E E E V E R Y M O N T H M AY 2 0 1 4

THE

EntertainmentbISSUE

YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT WINNIPEG HAS TO OFFER YOUR WINNIPEG WEDDING GUIDE | ITSLOVE.CA

Cielo's Garden is the perfect venue to host an outdoor wedding or special event.

A beautiful, clear-top tent set in nature gives you the unique experience of celebrating under the 'open sky'. Our dream is to make your dream come true.

CARLA@CIELOSGARDEN.COM

CIELOSGARDEN.COM

204.434.9002

SUTTON SMITHWORKS LTD 316-283 PORTAGE AVENUE | 204.942.5236

love

THE OF YOUR LIFE HAS LEFT THEIR IMPRINT ON YOUR

heart

Let us capture that imprint on the band you wear.

Your personal print can now symbolize your eternal love with our unique fingerprint wedding bands.

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si g h t l i n e s p h o t o . c a co n n e ct @ si g h t l i n e s p h o t o . c a 204-795-2389 co n t e m p or a r y | cl a ssi c | e l e g a n t engagements and weddings

Headshot by Victoria Anne Photography

YOUR

AWA I T S . . .

R OYA L L E PAG E A L L I A N C E | 3 0 2 5 P O R TAG E AV E | 2 0 4 - 8 8 5 - 5 5 0 0

Planning a wedding can be time consuming, but add buying a house into the mix and you've officially got too much on your plate. Kailey helps couples find the perfect home for them every day, turning something stressful and scary into the most exciting time in your life!

M Y F I A N C É A N D I A R E H O P I N G TO M OV E I N TO O U R F I R ST H O M E TO G E T H E R R I G H T A F T E R T H E W E D D I N G DAY. H OW FA R I N A DVA N C E S H O U L D W E B E LO O K I N G F O R A H O U S E TO G E T H E R ?

K A I L E Y ' S A N SW E R

It's never too early to start your home search. Even if it is a year down the road,

meeting with me to learn the buying process is the best place to start. Make sure you have all your ducks in a row, and learn what you can do to prepare yourself for when the time comes to jump on the house of your dreams! I would say a minimum of 3-4 months before you want to be in your home would be ideal.

The Niverville Heritage Centre is a gorgeous all-inclusive venue that includes catering, set up, decor, linens; even event planning!

We take care of everything to ensure your wedding day is just what you want it to be. We have heard time and time again that our clients appreciate how much we are able to do for them.

Centrally located only 20 minutes from both Winnipeg and Steinbach, the Niverville Heritage Centre is an exceptional and unique venue.

phone

204 388 5000 e-mail events@heritagecentre.ca website www.heritagecentre.ca

S I N G H P H O T O G R A P H Y. C A

S T B O N I FAC E G O L F C L U B . C O M

Chris Jensen Studios

Chris Jensen Studios

• REC EP TIONS U P TO 2 5 0 PEOP L E

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b a n q u e ts @ s tb on i f a c e g o l f c l u b .c o m

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www.wedlife.com (flash only) wedlife@wedlife.com (204)477.6495

SIMPLE, ELEGANT, TIMELESS...

WINNER OF MEMBER OF

WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Award 2012

Professional Wedding Photographer of Canada PWPC

Winnipeg’s Premiere Skyview Ballroom

accommodate up to 700 guests

Established in 1914, The Marlborough Hotel will bring charm, elegance, and a little piece of history to your special day with our collection of stunning banquet halls.

Choose from a sweeping urban panorama or timeless Renaissance inspired designs for a truly unique experience.

Proud to be the first hotel to offer the availability of complete wedding financing! Contact our Sales team for details

themarlborough.ca 204.944.7196 | sales@themarlborough.ca

YOU WOULDN’T RENT YOUR DRESS CUSTOM WEDDING SUITS YOU CAN KEEP STARTING AT $299 Don’t let your man get married in a boxy, out of style, off-the-rack rental tuxedo when he can look his best in a fully custom suit from EPH Apparel.

Visit us in-store or online | 291 Garry St. Winnipeg MB. W ephapparel.com E sales@ephapparel.com

THE EPH APPAREL DIFFERENCE FLAWLESS FIT GUARANTEE NO HIDDEN COSTS UNBEATABLE PRICES COMPLETE CUSTOMIZATION FOUR WEEK TURNAROUND UNPARALLELED SERVICE

XX

XX

XX

ON THE COVER XX P H OTO : S A M B A J OY P H OTO + A R T

THE MAY

IN EVERY ISSUE 22 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR 99 THE LOVE LIST

Local Directory

REAL COUPLES 57 LOVE STRUCK Lauren and Brent

66 THE TIME OF OUR LIVES Jennifer and Jason

FEATURES 37

PHOTO GALLERY

Entertainment and Favours

76 WEDDING REGISTRY

Dos and Don’ts

WEDDING HELP 26 YOU'RE ENGAGED... NOW WHAT?

How to Find the Right DJ 32 ASK THE EXPERTS Five Wonderful Wedding Favours 52 BUDGET PLANNING How Much to Spend on Entertainment

GINA@GINABRANDTPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

204.392.0587 | GINABRANDTPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Flower Shop and Event Florals

1724 Corydon Avenue

www.oakandlily.ca

(204) 421-6251

EDITOR'S LETTER AMONG THE BIGGEST REGRETS THE BIG DAY HAS PASSED IS NOT PAYING MORE ATTENTION TO THE ENTERTAINMENT PORTION OF THEIR WEDDING. As brides, we can get so caught up in the visual details in magazines and on Pinterest that we lose focus on the overall experience of our wedding. If you look back on the weddings you’ve attended as a guest, what stood out to you, for better or for worse?

My favourite elements, aside from all the sweet moments and precious words, were the polka band we danced all night to, the hilarious speeches from the bride’s sisters that had us all in stitches, and the adorable ceramic wine stopper given as a favour that I still use to this day. Knowing that your guests are there to celebrate your marriage lifts all of the stress of managing the little details in the planning process, and lets you focus on what matters most.

Happy Planning!

Maria Kenney, Editorial Director

A S P EC I A L T H A N K YO U TO A L L O F O U R C O N T R I B U TO R S W H O M A D E T H E M AY I S S U E O F I T'S LOV E S O WO N D E R F U L!

2 Chicks and a Bag of Makeup Academy Florist, Amanda Douglas Events, Bliss Bridal Boutique, Bridges Golf Course, DnG Photography, Gabrielle Touchette Photography, Hush Clothing, Keyhole Photography, Modern Pixel Photography, Planned Perfectly, Sambajoy Photo + Art, Sightlines Photography, Soirée Event Planning, Summer Bounce Entertainment, Sweet C Bakery.

M AY 2 0 14 | V O LU M E 6 | I S S U E 6

Published By Zarah Rachel Productions. For inquiries, please contact us at info@itslove.ca It's Love is published by Zarah Rachel Productions. It's Love is published once a month. The views and opinions herein do not necessarily represent those of It's Love, its publisher, editor or employees. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

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IT'S LOVE WEDDINGS

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Headshot by Sightlines Photography

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THAT NEWLYWEDS HAVE AFTER

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Celebrate your day and the warmth of the prairies.

We’ll take care of the rest.

Lani Elias Fine Art Photography

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BLF Studios

RECEPTION TENT

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O U T D O O R C E R E M O N Y S PAC E FLORAL DESIGN R E N TA L S

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CAKES

C AT E R I N G

YOU'RE ENGAGED...

NOW WHAT? HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT DJ FOR YOU

We sat down with Brenton from Summer Bounce Entertainment and got his top tips on how to hire a DJ.

Text by Maria Kenney Photos by Sambajoy Photo + Art

GET A GOOD DJ

AVOID THE IPOD

Doesn’t this go without saying? Apparently not.

We at It’s Love are all for saving money, but this is

As Brenton points out, “You can hire a DJ in this

not the place to skimp. Brenton puts it so well: “An

city in the $600 to $700 range, and you can find

iPod can’t read a crowd. It can’t change music and

them in the $3500 to $4000 range. But think

mix it smooth. It can’t modify mic levels. It can’t direct

about it this way: do you want someone who

guests, can’t talk, can’t motivate guests to get involved.

simply plays music? An iPod can do that.” Which

It can’t foresee problems. It can’t connect with other

brings us to our next point.

vendors. It can’t help you create your day-of timeline.

It can’t take requests. It can’t read the crowd or know what’s inappropriate for the age group. It can’t set up

AIM TO ENTERTAIN

equipment. What an iPod CAN do is create an all-dayand-night job for one of your wedding party.”

These days, a good DJ is much more than a mere spinner of tunes. Most brides plan their

TRUST YOUR DJ

décor to a T and neglect to consider how their guests will be entertained from start to

Trusting your DJ starts with finding a DJ you can

finish. “A good DJ should be trained as a Master

trust. “Your DJ needs to understand what’s important

of Ceremonies. They should have microphone,

to you—dancing, drinking, partying, or none of the

voice, and acting training, and know how to

above. You also want to know that they’ll be respectful,

read a crowd. A DJ is a couple’s spokesperson.

show up early, stay away from the booze, dress nice,

Anything and everything said or played is a

and not hit on your bridesmaids. If you don’t do your

direct reflection on the couple,” says Brenton.

homework, it could be a disaster.”

LO V E L I S T V E N D O R S S A M B A J OY P H OTO + A RT ( P G . 48 )

SEE THEM IN ACTION

the last to leave. We’re set up in a corner, watching the whole event unfold. We

You don’t have to crash a wedding to see your DJ in action before your big day. Any good DJ who’s proud

see problems brewing before they even

of their work should have video footage of them in

happen. You want a DJ that will take

action proudly displayed on their website for all to

ownership over the entertainment aspect

see, as well as a large supply of raving testimonials.

of your wedding, and make sure that every

“If you think about it, us DJs are the first

last person leaves having had a blast.

vendor to arrive at your wedding and

An iPod can’t do that," Brenton says.

"Mokada hopes to dispel the myth that custom is a code word for expensive. Custom is a synonym for unique, exclusive, one of a kind...but it need not break the bank.

Mokada can meet any budget and our state of the art design program can find ways to reduce price; not glamour. The ability to hand select your stone and pair it with a mount that YOU designed often represents the highest value. Jewelry is expected to be worn (sometimes everyday) and it should be distinct...just like you!"

MONA, OWNER

PHONE

204.415.5220

EMAIL

mona@mokada.ca

HOURS M-F

P R I VA T E A P P O I N T M E N T S AVA I L A B L E

www.mokada.ca

9am-5pm

S AT

10am-1pm

1∙ 855 ∙ 570∙ FACE (3223) contact @ feana.ca Fashionable ∙ Attractive ∙ Creative ∙ Exclusive

W I N N I P EG

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ASK THE EXPERT FIVE WONDERFUL WEDDING FAVOURS

Pointless wedding favours—we've all been victims of it. Let's be honest, no one wants to wake up and have their morning coffee in a mug with you and your grooms' faces on it. Nor should anyone have to find a place in their home for a glass ornament imprinted with your wedding date.

At Events by Emma we have a simple rule: wedding favours should either be edible or practical. If they're not edible or practical, they probably belong in the trash. Although it's not easy finding the perfect giveaway, your wedding favour is an opportunity to say 'thank you' to your guests in a special way with a meaningful gift. Here are five wonderful wedding favour ideas that your guests will appreciate!

Text by Events by Emma

LO V E L I S T V E N D O R S E V E N T S BY E M M A ( P G . 55) LU C K YG I R L P H OTO G R A P H Y ( P G . 7 )

1 | THEME-INSPIRED Wedding themes do everything from tying together decor colours, cake design and menu choices, to even setting a specific mood and atmosphere for your event. Most importantly, a wedding theme is a special opportunity to showcase and highlight the couple's personality and taste. When considering wedding favours, have your theme in mind and try to keep it all together. If you're having a Hollywood themed wedding, give away small baggies of popcorn, which can double as a late-night snack. Or if you're having a winter themed wedding, try a mini hot chocolate set complete with hot

Opposite: luckygirl Photography This page (Top to Bottom): luckygirl Photography; Kamp Photography; Manuel F Sousa Photography.

cocoa powder and marshmallows.

2 | CULTURALLY-INSPIRED We love it when couples go out of their way to incorporate their culture into their wedding. This can be done with decor, entertainment and even incorporating traditional dishes into their dinner menu. Another fun way to show ode to your culture is by giving away culturally-inspired favours. For example, one of our newlyweds from a Chinese cultural background gifted their guests with personally packaged chop-sticks.

3 | CHARITY DONATION Here's a wedding gift that keeps on giving. If there's a charity that's close to you and your fiancĂŠ's heart, why not take the budget set aside for favours and use it to make an important donation to that organization on behalf of your wedding guests.

You can leave a decorated place card on each plate setting announcing the donation made with their name.

4 | DANCING SHOES After a beautiful wedding ceremony, delicious dinner, and heart-felt speeches, everyone looks forward to the fun-filled dance party to follow. But let's face it, eight hours in high-heels, and even men's dress shoes, can do a toll on your guests' feet.

Keep your guests dancing comfortably all night by giving out flip-flops as your wedding favour. You'll keep the party going and your guests will leave with an extra pair of flip-flops for the summer months.

5 | FUN INVESTMENT If you're on the fence about adding a little extra something to your big day due to budget restrictions, such as an open bar, photo booth, or late night snack, why not use the budget you set aside for favours and direct it towards that little extra something. Your guests will appreciate that little something, and you and your fiancĂŠ can enjoy the perks of the favour as well!

Events by Emma | 204-779-8812 | eventsbyemma@hotmail.com Events by Emma's fresh approach and innovative thinking have made it one of the most sought-after planning and design companies in Canada. Named one of Canada's Top 5 Planners, our creative and dedicated team of planners are proven industry leaders that specialize in couture planning, dĂŠcor, and design for every occasion.

Photo by Moore Photography

PHOTO GALLERY: ENTERTAINMENT AND FAVOURS

1

Antique Plates P H OTO S BY M O D E R N P I X E L P H OT O G R A P H Y Let your guests choose their own antique plate from a stack. Every time they use it, they’ll remember your wedding fondly.

WINNIPEG GUIDE

2

Custom Liquor Bottles P H OTO S BY S A M B A J OY P H OT O + A RT If you know your guests will appreciate a bottle of alcohol, then this is the perfect favour for them.

WINNIPEG GUIDE

3

Pashminas P H OTO S BY S A M B A J OY P H OT O + A RT The women on your guest list will certainly appreciate this one.

WINNIPEG GUIDE

4

Homemade spreads P H OTO S BY S I G H T L I N E S P H OT O G R A P H Y Everyone will appreciate a favour that the couple put time and effort into making.

WINNIPEG GUIDE

5

Honey Sticks P H OTO S BY S A M B A J OY P H OT O + A RT A sweet treat your guests will definitely use.

WINNIPEG GUIDE

6

Something Sweet A B O V E K E Y H O L E P H OT O G R A P H Y O P P O S I T E S A M B A J OY P H OT O + A RT

Most people love taking something sweet home at the end of the night, like the mini cake in the photo above from Sweet C Bakery.

WINNIPEG GUIDE

sweetcbakery.ca | 204.291.6331 | cori@sweetcbakery.ca

MOBILE MAKEUP SERVICE FOR WEDDINGS & SPECIAL EVENTS CONTACT OUR TEAM FOR AVAILABILITY.

2chicksandabagofmakeup.com OR FIND US ON FACEBOOK

Photo by Modern Pixel Photography

Keyhole Photography & Design

PhOTOs: hEAThER CLARk PhOTOGRAPhy

The neW Winnipeg Ballroom aT The FairmonT Winnipeg

TWO LOMBARD PLACE WINNIPEG, MANITOBA

Let the Fairmont Winnipeg be your “something new”.

From the sparkle of the grand chandeliers, to the elegance and luxury of the foyer area, our elegant design is the perfect fit for your Fairytale Wedding.

For more information call (204) 957-1350 or visit www.fairmont.com/winnipeg

custom design

1 9 0 P rov encher Bo u le v a rd

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204 233 9722

bijoutreasures.com

LO V E L I S T V E N D O R S S A M B A J OY P H OTO + A RT ( P G . 48 ) , M O D E R N P I X E L P H OTO G R A P H Y ( P G . 9 8 )

BUDGET PLANNING: HOW MUCH TO SPEND ON YOUR ENTERTAINMENT

When it comes to entertainment, where do you spend? Where do you save? It’s Love has you covered!

Text by Maria Kenney

ON AN IPOD

ON A LIVE BAND

An iPod might seem like an awesome, free alternative to a DJ or a

Nothing gets dance floor-happy

live band, but couples that go this route often neglect to consider

guests excited about a wedding

a few important things. If you do things the legal way, which we

than rumours of a live band. For

are all for, downloading enough songs to cover a five hour

some, this is a budget break-

reception without repetition will ring up a huge bill and probably

ing expense that just can’t be

cost more than hiring a pro. You’ll also need to rent a professional

justified. But if boogying down

sound system if your wedding has more than 30 guests. And you’ll

with your new husband to your

also need someone manning the iPod at all times.

favourite local band is something you’ve dreamt about for

ON A DJ

years, by all means, spend the money! This is one expense you

DJs come in all colours and flavours, so pinning down a price is

will never regret in a lifetime. On

tricky. You might spend as little as $600 on a DJ, but you also

average, a local band can cost

might spend thousands. Knowing your costs here depends largely

you anywhere from $2000 to

on what you want your DJ to do. Do you want them there for

$5000, but you can find them

dancing only, or do you want them to play while your guests eat

higher and lower as well. You’ll

dinner too? Are you having a cocktail hour? Do you want your DJ

save money by finding a band

to play you down the aisle? For more information on DJs, check

that’s newer on the scene,

out our DJ article in this issue.

or by asking friends to play.

ON FAVOURS

ON A SLIDESHOW

Your guests will expect a little

Slideshows are often one of the most memorable

something to take home at

elements of a wedding, for better or worse. To create

the end of the night. Expect

a successful slideshow, you’ll need a laptop with the slideshow file or DVD on it (you can easily create one

to spend between $1 and $3

using iMovie or Flickr), a projector, a screen or white

per person on your guests list.

wall, and all the necessaryhookups. A/V equipment

The cheapest route is often

rentals are usually in the $150 to $200 range, and can be rented through your venue. We’ve all seen

something homemade and

people fumbling with projectors they’ve just picked

edible, like jars of jam or hot

up, though, which is why you might want to ask

cocoa cones. Make sure you

your DJ to take care of it (for a fee).

calculate the costs before diving into a DIY project,

ON A NON-SLIDESHOW

though, since bulk purchases of

Slideshow alternatives these days are many and

jars, labels, ingredients, ribbons,

varied, and they might save you money. One of

and other elements add up

our favourites is a photo wall, which can be constructed from ribbons, clothespins, string lights,

quick. If you’re not the DIY type,

or any other visually appealing household items.

ask your cake baker if they’re

Otherwise, you can make a note on your invitations

willing to give you a discount if youadd cake pops to your order.

for each guest to bring a photo of themselves with the bride, groom, or both, and have them seal it into the guest book upon arrival at the reception.

Photos by Jeremy Hiebert Photography

Specializing in L I N E N S , C H I AVA R I S , DRAPING AND CHAIR COVERS

PLAN

NED-PE

R F E C T LY. C O M | 2 0 4 . 8 3 1

.6490

PLANPERF@MYMTS.NET

1 6 - 1 9 9 O M A N D S C R E E K B LV D Preferred Vendor & Venue Discounts Set up & Tear down is included in our prices

�ove STRUCK Photos by Gabrielle Touchette Photography Text by Maria Kenney

LOV E L I S T V E N D O R S S O I R É E E V E N T P L A N N I N G (P G. 63) B R I D G E S G O L F C O U R S E (P G. 75) AC A D E M Y F LO R I S T (P G. 64) P L A N N E D P E R F ECT LY (P G. 56)

LAUREN AND BRENT MET when they were 16 working at the same retail store, and they were instantly smitten.

A decade later and they were still happily together, but Lauren had stopped wondering when he would pop the question. Days before their almost shared birthdays, Brent took Lauren out for a fancy dinner, and when they arrived home, pulled out a surprise present: a beautiful princess cut solitaire on a white gold, diamond encrusted band.

Opposite: A bouquet of stunning orange and red mokara orchids fit right in with the colour palette. This page: Stone grey bridesmaid dresses allowed the brighter colours in their bouquets to stand out; The groomsmen wore boutonnieres to match the other wedding flowers; Brent spent many months customizing the ring with which he proposed to Lauren; Multi-coloured paper lanterns were hung from the ceiling for a whimsical atmosphere.

WITH THE HELP OF SOIRﾃ右 EVENT PLANNING, Lauren and Brent pulled together an intimate event with only their close family and friends. They developed a bright colour palette that

This page: The fun-loving couple left a pack of playing cards on each table for guests who didn't feel like dancing; Lauren's handmade French flats were covered in an antique lace, crystal, and pearl trim; The bride, who is a professional pastry chef, made a raspberry buttercream

reflected them as a couple, and even encouraged all of their

cake with lemon layers from scratch; A grey sky added

wedding party and guests to wear fancy hats or fascinators,

drama to the couple's photo session. Opposite: The

which ended up being one of their favourite details.

creating a rich backdrop.

guests' tables were covered in a deep claret red linen,

REAL WINNIPEG WEDDING

Soirée Event Planning, Andrea Mancini (204) 477-5450 | soireeplanning.ca Soirée Event Planning was founded when owner Andrea Mancini discovered passion for turning life's little details into lasting impressions and memories. Soirée's consultants will ensure your wedding is inspired, unique and unforgettable.

L AU R E N, T H E B R I D E

LOVE LIST VENDORS CEREMONY/RECEPTION VENUE BRIDGES GOLF COURSE WEDDING PLANNER SOIRÉE EVENT PLANNING FLOWERS ACADEMY FLORIST LINENS/RENTALS PLANNED PERFECTLY

Photography Gabrielle Touchette Photography Dress L.A. Collection Bridesmaid Dresses 7th Avenue Fashion Tuxes and Formal Wear Vittorio Rossi Clothiers Invitations and Stationery In So Many Words

Shoes Katie Klein, Beholden Bridal Wedding Bands Diamond Gallery Hair Kim, Style Council Musicians Platinum Productions

"Our planners Andrea and Shaelynn from SOIRÉE EVENT PLANNING were great to work with! Really fun and excited about our ideas, and so energetic in helping us achieve what we wanted."

Jeremy Hiebert Photography

SOIREEPLANNING.CA

Brittany Mahood Photography

MODERN AND ELEGANT DESIGNS

204.488.4822

ACAD E M Y FLOR IST WE D D IN GS

W E D D I N G S @ AC A D E M Y F LO R I ST.CO M

AC A D E M Y F LO R I ST

ACAD E M Y F LO R I ST

ACAD E M Y F LO R I STSW I NNI P E G

ACADEMYFLORISTWEDDINGS.COM

Text by Maria Kenney Photos by DnG Photography

LOV E L I S T V E N D O R S A M A N DA D O U G L A S E V E N T S (P G. 73), B R I D G E S G O L F C O U R S E (P G. 75), AC A D E M Y F LO R I S T (P G. 64), B L I S S B R I DA L B O U T I Q U E (P G. 74), H U S H C LOT H I N G (P G. 72), P L A N N E D P E R F ECT LY (P G. 56), T WO C H I C K S A N D A B AG O F M A K E U P (P G. 49)

Of all things sure to cause extra headaches over

the Christmas holidays, adopting a puppy tops that list. J E N N I F E R and J A S O N were in love with their new Labrador pup, Denali—until, that is, she took a keen interest in the Christmas tree.

From that moment onwards, every time they came home, Denali greeted them with ornaments in her mouth. One Saturday afternoon, Jennifer left the house to run some errands, and Jason stayed at home to puppy-sit.

When she returned, Denali came bouncing to the door with an ornament stuck in her collar. She bent down to untangle the ornament, calling out to Jason about the trouble she’d gotten into, and found an engagement ring tied to Denali’s collar.

REAL WINNIPEG WEDDING

This page, clockwise from top left: Paper star lanterns were hung throughout the banquet hall; The couple, moments after saying their "I dos"; The buffet spread at Bridges was delicious; The wedding party posing for pictures in the Manitoba Hydro building; Jennifer's gorgeous bouquet included roses, anemones, peonies, purple succulents, silver brunia, and violet wax flowers. Opposite: The dazzling halo engagement ring that Jason proposed with.

REAL WINNIPEG WEDDING

Transportation Winnipeg Coach Services Marriage Commissioners Steven and Corrine Cameron, The Salvation Army

Amanda Douglas Events will be there to help put together your wedding, with all it's beautiful details, and take away the stress and pressure, leaving you with only enjoyment and wonderful memories of your day!

LOVE LIST VENDORS CEREMONY/RECEPTION VENUE BRIDGES GOLF COURSE WEDDING COORDINATOR AMANDA DOUGLAS EVENTS FLOWERS ACADEMY FLORIST DRESS/VEIL/EARRINGS/HAIR BROOCH BLISS BRIDAL BOUTIQUE BRIDESMAID DRESSES HUSH CLOTHING LINENS AND CHAIRS PLANNED PERFECTLY MAKEUP TWO CHICKS AND A BAG OF MAKEUP

Photographer DnG Photography Cake Tara Treats Formal Wear Aldo’s Formal Wear Shoes Nine West, Rooster Bride’s Wedding Band Diamond Gallery Groom’s Wedding Band Hair Bobby-Jo, Society Music Platinum Productions

AMANDA DOUGLAS EVENTS | (204) 996-2371 | AMANDADOUGLASEVENTS.COM With Amanda Douglas Events you’ll have the experience and expertise of a professional planner, designer and stylist (and her team) at your disposal!

Jennifer and Jason shied away from choosing a specific theme for their wedding, and instead focussed on capturing what they both loved. With a neutral colour palette, natural light, and tonnes of fresh flowers, their big day brought the outdoors inside from start to finish.

This page, clockwise from top: The neutral colour palette included cream coloured linens and white chiavari chair; Jennifer's lace Enzoani dress was her favourite detail of the day; The couple had chocolate covered caramels as favours; Lush centrepieces included hydrangea and violet wax flowers. Opposite: The cool November day provided an icy backdrop for photos.

Photo by Mike Tinholt Photography

To the bride that loves her friends‌

We come in all shapes and sizes, so give your bridesmaids the freedom to choose a dress according to their taste, budget and body type. HUSH Collection, located in Osborne Village, is the perfect place for timeless “un-bridesmaid� dresses. With prices ranging from $110-$130, HUSH Collection offers a style and color for everyone with the option to customize. Plus, you can make your girls feel extra special by booking them the private consultation room.

We all know the bride will be the most beautiful woman at the wedding, but at least give your bridesmaids a fighting chance.

Planning • Coordination • Styling • amandadouglasevents.com

Photos by Brittany Mahood Photography

H AY L E Y PA I G E E X C L U S I V E LY AT B L I S S 215 Stafford Street 204.475.5528 blissbridalwinnipeg.com

WEDDING REGISTRY DOS AND DON’TS

Set up your gift registry early, or risk receiving hundreds of gravy boats.

Text by Maria Kenney Photos by Gabrielle Touchette Photography

Don't

MENTION YOUR REGISTRY IN YOUR INVITES

Do

REGISTER EARLY

Brides often feel that setting up a gift registry right when they get engaged is presumptuous,

It’s considered tacky to mention your

but more often than not it will save your friends

registry to guests in your invitations. Instead,

and family a whole lot of headaches. Register

rely on your maid of honour, bridal party,

the moment you say “yes”!

and your wedding website to relay this

Do

information. You are, however, welcome to mention it if someone asks.

Don't

REGISTER AT ONLY ONE LOCATION

INCLUDE LOTS OF ITEMS AT DIFFERENT PRICE POINTS

Estimate the number of guests that will attend your wedding (you can always add

You should register at 2 or 3 different places.

more items later) and add 25%: this is the

Most couples choose a home store, a kitchen

number of items you should register for.

store, and a department store. Make sure at

Use the rule of thirds: one third of your items

least one of the stores has a location in the

should be under $50, another third under

area where most of your guests live.

$150, and another third more than $150.

Do

Don't

There’s a six week rule for getting your

There are definite limits to your registry,

thank you cards in the mail, and the

and guests might be offended if you

sooner the better. Keep track of who

include items like tablets, makeup, or

gave you what so that you can reference

clothing. Ask yourself the question:

the gift in the card.

will it make our lives easier as a couple?

WRITE THANK YOU CARDS

STRAY FROM NEST-BUILDING ITEMS

ASKING FOR MONEY Another important don’t: asking for money outright. There are plenty of registry websites that will allow guests to donate money to fund your honeymoon, or else you can ask your wedding party to delicately spread the word to your guests that you’d prefer money.

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EVERY LITTLE GIRL DREAMS OF HER WEDDING DAY

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Relive your memories

save the date

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO

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W I NNIP EG ’ S

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STARRING YOU AND THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE. FEATURING YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY. PRODUCED BY BLAKE THE VIDEO GUY. VIDEOGRAPHY-PHOTOGRAPHY-PHOTOBOOTH. 204-800-7846. BLAKE@ACTIONSTUDIOS.CA. ACTION STUDIOS - CAPTURE THE ACTION.

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RATED R (ROMANTIC)

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S i m p ly

Beautiful

weddingS

Whether you want an intimate wedding, a unique dinner for clients, or a special occassion with the family, De Luca’s Cooking Studio has everything you need. A beautiful granite counter separates the kitchen from the dining area, and the open kitchen concept of the room allows you to enjoy the unique ambience of an Italian kitchen while you dine on delectable homemade food.

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204.774.7617

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carla@deluca.ca

||

deluca.ca

Top Photo by Moore Photography | Bottom Photos by Tinholt Photography

950 Portage Avenue

FLORAL ELEMENTS creating exquisite events with lush florals and inspired design Gloria 204 229 5446 | Deb 204 297 5036 WWW.FLORALELEMENTS.CA photo by Gabrielle Touchette Photography

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WITH CHAMPAGNE, CHOCOLATES AND BREAKFAST FOR THE BRIDE AND GROOM

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WE'VE GONE

your WINNIPEG WEDDING GuIDE | ITSLoVE.CA

I T S LO V E .C A

YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT WINNIPEG HAS TO OFFER

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YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT WINNIPEG HAS TO OFFER