g n i d wed e d i u g- 2012 the
3
engagement
ring
trends for 2012
Get crafty
& creative with a DYI project
fun facts & tips for grooms
wedding
proposal
contest
Times The Langley
www.langleytimes.com
fresh ideas inside
B eautifulS urroundings... M
eadow Gardens Golf Club is conveniently located in Pitt Meadows, right off the Golden Ears Bridge. Choose from four different rooms accommodating a gala affair for 300 or a corporate boardroom meeting for 8. We have a 2000 square foot patio to hold wedding ceremonies or great for BBQ’s after your golf tournament. All looking out at our famous 18th hole stone bridges. Our world-class facility and beautifully landscaped grounds offers a fabulous backdrop for any event. The food and beverage team can create menus to suit every need. Weddings, Golf Tournaments, Corporate Seminars, Christmas‌we can assist you with it all!
Contact Claire 604.465.5474 ext. 205
www.meadowgardens.com 19675 Meadow Gardens Way, Pitt Meadows 2
The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
what's inside
5 10 21
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4 l e t y o u r v e n u e s e t t h e t o n e .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 d r e a m i n g o f t h e d r e s S .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 putting your best face forward.......................... 7 a r r i v i n g i n s t y l e .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 g e t t i n g h e a l t h y f o r t h e b i g d a y .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 j u s t p u t a r i n g o n i t .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 y o u r b i g d a y t h r o u g h t h e l e n s .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 w o r k i n g t h r o u g h w e d d i n g d a y c h a l l e n g e s . . . . . . . . 12 l e a v e r o o m f o r t h e g r o o m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 w r i t i n g y o u r o w n v o w s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 c h i l d r e n a t t h e w e d d i n g .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 h e r e c o m e s t h e b r i d e s m a i d s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 s e c o n d w e d d i n g s .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 s e a t i n g c h a r t p r o j e c t .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 A l l t h e t r i m m i n g s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 w e d d i n g c o c k t a i l t r e n d . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 finding your bridal style
.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Photos supplied by Cecy Young and Mariana Garcia of Porcelaine Project, and Casey Edwards
Dwayne Weidendorf publisher
Kelly Myers assistant ad manager
Carlie Blume writer/ contributor
CREATIVE GOLDSMITHS Established 1972
20160 Langley Bypass 604-530-7213 creativegoldsmiths.ca
The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
3
finding your
bridal style
Ways to find your own bridal style Two words; Organize and Brainstorm – buy a sketchbook or notepad specifically for jotting down any ideas you have about your big day. Create a mind map that will help you discover what the overall style of your wedding will be. For example, have you always felt connected to the ocean? Drift-
Create an inspiration board – purchase a cork bulletin board and post it where you can see it at all times. Tack things that inspire you onto it, whether it is ads from a magazine, scraps of fabric, photos of your mother in her wedding dress or colour swatches.
“
Stay true to yourself – are you choosing those sea foam green bridesmaid dresses for you or your mother? It will take up far more energy trying to please everyone else, as apposed to staying true to your own taste.
Be light and have fun with it! If you want to have your dog as the ring bearer or have your mother and father walk you down the aisle at the same time, then go for it! It’s your day. Be OK with imperfectionsThey will be that extra spice on your wedding day.
Voted Best Restaurant in Surrey/Delta/ Langley/White Rock in 2010 and 2011
NGS I D D E C AT E R
good | simple | fresh 15021 Marine Drive, White Rock 604.538.9373 www.ulisrestaurant.com
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The Langley Times |
Stay true to your own taste
“Literally, the best food I have ever had at a wedding” - Jon T.
WE
W
wood and candle centerpieces could be a unique way to express that.
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Finally, this day has arrived! The question has been popped and your endless pile of lists are beginning. Despite all the happiness and excitement it is easy to get caught up in a wedding whirlwind when you find yourself at the helm of the daunting task that is planning a wedding. There are many people that will tell you the colour black is taboo for a wedding or that short dresses are garish, but amidst all the opinions and suggestions it is important that your wedding represents you and your fiancé’s own individual styles, whether it is politically correct or not. Some of the most enjoyable weddings I’ve ever attended didn’t look like they were out of a TLC special or a Martha Stewart wedding magazine, they looked like a clear window into the souls of the bride and groom.
wedding guide
| January 2012
let your venue set the tone
There are a few things that need to be considered before you start checking off your long list of wedding dos and don’ts and the first order of business is to find a venue. Your wedding venue will ultimately determine if you will end up with that princess style hotel ballroom wedding or the floaty bohemian rustic garden wedding. It is important that you consider what kind of wedding suits you and your fiancé’s style, tastes and budget before you embark onto the adventure that is choosing the backdrop to your big day. Do your research…. Before you start making appointments with every golf course, banquet hall and chapel, do some research first. Make sure you acquire all the facts, like space requirements, hidden costs, and venue availability, before you commit. Choosing your venue can be one of the most consuming and stressful parts of planning a wedding, so do yourself a favor and be prepared.
Be open minded…. If you have always imagined walking down the aisle outside an 18th century castle surrounded by an English rose garden while delicately arched swans scuttle around in a nearby pond, then it might be time to get a healthy reality check. The most important thing to be aware of while choosing your venue is that perfection is not the end goal. It is finding a location that best exemplifies you and your fiancé’s wedding style, as a couple. Scope out the parking situation….. It seems trivial at first, but parking can become a large headache if it is overlooked when choosing a venue. If parking becomes an issue your guests might not show up on time, making it quite possible that the bride will be waiting on the guests
the perfect venue for your special day
as opposed to the other way around. Take long weekends, holidays and day of the week into consideration if you have chosen a venue close to high populated areas.
‘We are charmed by simple elegance’
Situated in a stunning park-like setting, our beautiful venue seats 50 to 225 guests. We’ll cater your wedding with elegant style, and our executive chef will provide fabulous cuisine that will define your special day.
�
Afternoon & High Tea (private Coach House)
Our irresistible selection of Mini Savories & Finger Sandwiches, Sweet Scones, Devonshire Cream & Preserve, Seasonal Fruit, Custom Cupcakes, Macaron de Paris & Creme de la Earl Grey Tea
Thursday, May 10, 2012 A perfect opportunity to experience an elegant evening with all that Langley Golf and Banquet Centre has to offer. Meet up to forty specialty vendors who will be showcasing their services. The evening will include live music, champagne, hors d'oeuvres, seminars and a gift bag for the first 100 brides.
21550 - 44th Avenue (216 & 44) 604.534.4555 ext. 3 langleygolfcentre.com
$15 pp
Champagne & Glutten Free Tea available
& Co.
The Langley Times |
9090 Glover Road, Fort Langley 604.888.8386 www.littlewhitehousefort.com
wedding guide
| January 2012
5
dreaming of the dress
Keep budget in mind Note to all brides: If you can’t afford the dress don’t even try it on, it will only make for a disappointed bride when you find out it makes you look five years younger and ten pounds slimmer
Know the styles that best suit your body
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If you have always been known for your supermodel legs then maybe don’t rule out a shorter style of dress. Remember to work your good features and conceal the less than fabulous ones. Try an array of styles
relaxed and elegant
“
There is nothing more exciting for a bride than heading out for the day in search of the perfect wedding dress. Like most women, you have probably imagined what your dress would look like thousands of times, and like most women, I’m sure the vision changes one year to the next. Back in high school, you might have always imagined walking down the aisle in large amounts of tulle and a tiara nestled proudly amidst a sea of glossy curls, but chances are your style has come leaps and bounds since your days of braces and midterms. The keys to finding your perfect wedding dress are:
You never know! Maybe that mermaid style gown flatters you after all. Over the years the wedding dress has had many faces. We have seen sleeves hit epic proportions, trains stretch longer and skirts grow larger. Some classic trends have stayed and made their mark while others are best left in the history books. This year’s trends are relaxed and elegant, while not taking themselves too seriously: basically what every bride should aim to be.
something borrowed… something
blue BRIDAL FASHIONS
Everything But The Groom Everything But The Groom Bridal Boutique is located in Langley. Owners Kristy Goranko & Heidi Tobler provide competitively priced gowns & accessories & carry a variety of plus-size bridal gown samples as well as an excellent selection of jewellery, veils, shoes, garters & spanx. Their slogan is ‘Everything you could wish for & more. “We have over 175 bridal gown samples,” says Goranko. Featured designers include Mori Lee, Venus, Alfred Angelo, Bonny, JAI, Madison & Impressions Bridal. The boutique also carries formal wear for bridesmaids, flower girls, mothers of the bride/groom & graduation events. We stock the Kate Middleton and the Twilight dresses. Appointments are recommended, walk-ins are welcome. 20538 Fraser Hwy, Langley www.everythingbutthegroom.ca | 604.534.WISH (9474)
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The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
Choose from clear contact lenses to a wide range of shades that create a naturally beautiful look.
The very latest in designer frames...
Vera Wang Rampage
Gucci
• Great Selection • Great Service • Great Prices
Dr. G.K. Bains Bsc, OD, MSc, MCOptom *Optometric Corporation
20455 Douglas Crescent, Downtown Langley
604.514.0070 • www.bcvisioncare.com
putting your best face forward
Cut back on drinking and partying at least one month before your wedding day- Drinking alcohol deprives your skin of vital nutrients needed to function properly, resulting in a lackluster and not-so- camera ready blotchy complexion Stay hydrated!Drinking water flushes out toxins and improves your skins circulation leaving you with a natural bridal glow
“
you have to be the princess of the cosmetics counter. If your dress is elaborate and detailed then your hair and makeup should never try to compete. Balance is the key!
store can give your megawatt smile that extra something without breaking the bank
balance is the key
Keep your smile wedding day white. One month before you read your vows give those pearly whites some attention. A small investment in whitening strips found at your local drug
Barbara Boldt
“
Many brides search out the best photographer and spend hours searching for a dress fit for a princess but amidst this quest for beauty it is easy to forget about the most valuable bridal accessory you possess… your face. Putting your best face forward on your big day will always trump the most expensive dress or jewelry.
Choose understated and elegant hair and makeup for the big day. Hair and makeup can make a bride feel like a million bucks or in the unfortunate cases do just the opposite. Just because it is your one day to look like a princess, it doesn’t mean
Please call ahead to view
Gift Certificates Available
25340-84th Avenue • 604.888.5490 art@barbaraboldt.com • www.barbaraboldt.com
Celebrate In Style
Time to Celebrate!
Original Oil & Pastel Works of Local Landscapes and Gulf Island Earthpatterns 5 km East of Fort Langley in Glen Valley Easy Parking
Treat yourself to a facial at your favorite spa a couple weeks before you walk down the aisle. Make sure not to book it too close to the big day in case of potential allergic reactions that could pop up…..nobody likes a bride with hives.
We have a large selection of premium wines that you can make yourself and save!
Cubans, Dominicans, and or cuban products. Many flavors to choose from.
…your wine and cigar friends 103-20270 Industrial Ave, Langley 604-532-9463
The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
7
Your wedding is an expression of your love for one another Create an event that is as unique as you are Contact our wedding specialists to handle all the details.
Call 604-530-1500
arriving in style When making your big entrance at your wedding, style is always a factor in the bride and groom’s minds. After spending the whole day primping like a member of royalty it doesn’t seem quite right to show up in your regular four door sedan. Depending on the style of the wedding, alternate transportation can be the cherry on your sundae for your big arrival, just take these few things into consideration. How much are you willing to spend? Whether we are talking about a carriage ride or a vintage Rolls Royce, expect to fork out a couple
20393 Fraser Hwy., Langley, BC www.cascadescasino.ca
ng GuideLT2012_v2.indd 1
pennies. Some exotic car rentals can charge up to $500 a day. What style vehicle best suits your wedding? If your dress is vintage lace, and your bridesmaids look like a vision out of Madmen, then a 1960 Cadillac might be just the wheels to pull you up to the alter. If your wedding vision is more roses and romance then a whimsical horse drawn carriage could be the answer. How many people are you arriving with? If you have a troop of giggling bridesmaids at your train, then opt for space and comfort as apposed to pure show factor. Most limo companies charge you by the hour so if your ceremony location is literally a 5 minute walk, get your moneys worth and sip on some champagne while the driver does a few laps around the city.
19/01/2012 3:17:32 PM
Mother Nature Provides the Decor. We Provide Everything Else.
Celebrate the wedding of your dreams surrounded by the natural beauty of The Redwoods Golf Course. ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGES AVAILABLE.
email: sales@redwoods-golf.com phone: 604-882-5130 22011-88th Avenue, Langley
www.redwoods-golf.com
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The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
Getting healthy for the big day
Let’s face it planning a wedding is a big job, so big in fact it can take more than a year to plan the affair. It will probably be one of the busiest years of your life and like they say, “Planning a wedding is not for the faint of heart”, or for the weak for that matter. Many women make it a priority to get in shape and get healthy for reasons just as individual as the brides themselves. Some want to get healthy for appearance sake, while others just want to feel their best on top of looking their best. Whatever your reason may be it is always good to have realistic expectations as well as go about it in a safe and smart fashion.
do
Take a boot camp class or visit the gym on a a regular consistent basis to achieve healthy results Make sure you are eating a healthy diet regularly ex) green vegetables, proteins, grains and plenty H20! Allow yourself a treat once in awhile Visualize success and focus on the positive Teach yourself to be happy with what you see in the mirror.
don' t
Overdo it! You may run the risk of injuring yourself if you take your goal to extremes Get impatient and resort to diet pills or any other chemical supplements that could affect your nervous system Go from 0 to 100 and cut out dairy, sugar, and carbs all in one sitting. Chances are you will eventually break such a strict regimen. If you are wanting to make a serious lifestyle overhaul then slowly phase these foods out one at a time Punish yourself if you happen to slip up one day Compare yourself to others!
LSRS
When only perfect will do!
Catering Distinctive • Ideal • Unexpected
Planning A Wedding... Catering for up to 200 in our Beautiful Banquet Hall
Check out 7 Seas for inspirational ideas for your
• Engagement Dinner • Stag/Bridal Shower • Rehearsal Supper
Our knowledgeable staff can help you plan an unforgettable menu and keep you on budget.
Lobster, Crab, Prawns, Scallops, Clams, Mussels Salmon, Halibut, Tuna, Cod, Snapper, Bass, Sablefish Great Oyster Bar selection – shucked and unshucked Variety of Party Dips
The best selection of quality sustainable fish in Langley. If we don’t have it we will order it directly from the boat.
www.lsrs.ca/catering
20605 - 51B Ave I 604-530-3020 Ext 315 I catering@lsrs.ca
Fish Market & Grill #2-6131 200 Street
Willowbrook Park Shopping Centre (across from Safeway)
604.532-7727 | Check out the fabulous recipes at www.7seas.ca
The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
9
just put a ring on it
“
very personal experience
“
Designed and Handcrafted in our Own Studio
Choosing an engagement ring can be a very personal and time consuming experience, but the reward of finding the perfect ring that suits you just right is the light at the end of the tunnel you have to look forward to. Last year 2011 proved to be a big year for weddings, we had a grandiose royal wedding that everyone across the world tuned in to witness, those Twilight kids finally tied the knot and as usual we saw some unique engagement ring trends that we will definitely see more of in 2012.
Trend #1- Colored Gem Stones A unique way to show your future spouse some romance of your own, try an engagement ring with his birthstone in it. It’s a unique diamond alternative as well as a sweet homage to your man.
Trend #2- Antique Appeal An Eco friendly way to find your dream ring! Plus just think of the stories it would tell if it could.
CREATIVE GOLDSMITHS Established 1972
20160 Langley Bypass 604-530-7213 creativegoldsmiths.ca 10
The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
Trend #3-Pave-ulous! A Pave setting gives your ring the illusion that your entire setting is made up of diamonds. A decadent option for the diva within you.
your big day
through the lens After hours and hours of planning, thinking and organizing through the details of your wedding, you will find that, once it is all over the only thing you have left to show for it, besides an empty bank account, is all the memories that have been preserved in your wedding photographs. Some people try to cut corners by placing disposable cameras on the guest tables, hoping that at least one of their guests will happen to have a little Ansel Adams or Annie Lebowitz in them. Unfortunately, chances are you will end up with fuzzy edges, your Aunt Trudy’s oversized head blocking the bridal party, and a bevy of inappropriate loosened tie photos of the groomsmen doing tequila shots at the bar. Having said that, you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars for stunning pho-
“
“
be true to your style and vision
tographs, you just need a few helpful hints. Search the Internet for local wedding photographers and browse through their online portfolios to see if their sort of photography connects to you and your vision. Once you have chosen a photographer, sit down with them and your fiancé and discuss the overall style and tone of your wedding. Remember photographers are not mind readers, so be sure to let them know if you are looking for formal posed photos or easygoing candid shots.
Fun & Romance Package
Get creative and incorporate props if it suits your style – paper or lace parasols can make for some lovely bridesmaids shots, or a couple pairs of sunglasses can bring a fun element into a bride and groom photo. Spend more time enjoying the day and experiencing the moments as they come instead of allotting hours of your time to be taken up with photo time. Invite your pets into a few shots… if they were included on the guest list that is.
The best 20 minutes a couple can have. Perfect for your Rehearsal Dinner, Bridal Shower, Groom Party, Stag, Stagette or wedding favours.
s Champagne basket &
chocolates s Private midnight swim & hot tub s Breakfast for two s Late check-out privileges s Near Newlands Golf & Country Club s Voted Best Hotel in Langley
We feature over 50 kinds of wine, including Pinot Grigio, Shiraz, Merlot, Chardonnay, Riesling, Ice Wine and many types of beer, cider and coolers. von eUw BREW also sells chocolates specifically selected to compliment wines.
www.VONEUWBREW.COM Complimentary
Personalized Labels
Best Western Langley Inn 5978 Glover Road, Langley • 604-530-9311 • 1-888-530-9311 www.bestwesternlangley.com Each Best Western® is independently owned and operated. Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International, Inc. © 2008 Best Western International, Inc. All rights reserved.
with every wedding order
von eUw BREW
20165 Industrial Ave | 604.530.0791
The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
11
working through
wedding day challenges Although you are about to embark on what should be the happiest day of your life there are still many challenges and pitfalls that can bring you down. The key is to be aware of them and be prepared for when they arrive. Let’s face it with the good comes the bad and when planning a wedding there can definitely be some challenges. Whether it’s family drama or opinions of relatives that have been sharpened to a pointed tip, there are many wedding booby traps you may encounter and steadfast ways to deal with them.
It could be bad blood between a guest and their ex-spouse or a long-standing feud between siblings; whatever the foible, remember it is you and your fiancé’s big day. If those participating in the bad blood can’t understand this then it is up to you to politely suggest that this is a “drama free” wedding and if they can’t move past it then they should probably not attend. Harsh but fair; be your own emotional bouncer. Challenge No.3 – Wedding plans are creating stress and tension between you and your fiancé – Amidst the gazing in each others’ eyes over dinner and staring down at your engagement ring wondering how you got so lucky there is still the chance that during your wedding plans you and your fiancé will hit a rough patch. How can you not? We are talking about two people planning a party with all of their family members. Locking horns will happen, but it’s not the end of the world. He is still the same fabulous guy who proposed on bended knee and brought you breakfast in bed last Valentine’s Day. Try not to be Bridezilla and put your stamp on absolutely everything. It is important to include your man so that he is reminded that it is his day as well as being yours.
Challenge No.1 – The awkward task of cutting people from the guest list - It’s never fun to leave anyone off the list but the truth is that people have to be left out or else you will be working three jobs to pay for your wedding for the next 10 years. To avoid these uncomfortable encounters the key is to not act awkward about it, you should have no apologies for who you do or do not invite. Just keep a cool head and focus on creating the best possible wedding for you and your fiancé. Challenge No. 2 – Family feuds – Unfortunately if you have ever had a family you will know that sometimes certain family members don’t get along.
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Over 100 of the top local wedding vendors, suppliers and service providers all in one place. Your one-stop shop for all your wedding needs!
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wedding guide
GIFT PACK
with every Wedding Booking!
– Brides, Bridal Parties, Mother-of-the-Bride –
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| January 2012
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Visit our showrooms at 5511-208th Street, Langley • 604-514-0044
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Personalized menus to customize your function and make your event a success!
Save $100-$150 for bookings of 25 or more
Beautiful Food Fine Wines Attentive Service
20598 Fraser Hwy • 604-534-2104 • sonomagrill.ca wedding guide
| January 2012
13
leave room
for the groom
Today it has become common knowledge that weddings are usually spearheaded and fussed over by the bride. But that doesn’t mean that the groom’s sole purpose is to only say “I do”. The groom is an integral part of the wedding process. He is the sandbag to the gushing floodwaters that is the bride. He is a sturdy beacon amidst a stormy sea of invitations, wedding favors and sash-adorned chairs. And because of this we pay homage to him with tips, facts and tidbits that only he can use and covet throughout the whole wedding process.
“
“
compromise is the key
Dealing with a Stressed-0ut Bride How is it that as soon as your girlfriend became your fiancée, she changed from sweet and calm to a turbo-charged wedding machine. She breathes, sleeps and eats this wedding and you have no clue where to begin. The key is to not let her frazzled mood rub off on you; keep your lady grounded by hearing her out when she needs to vent, ask if there is a chunk of the planning you can take on, and create a date night that has nothing to do with the wedding and everything to do with just the two of you.
Bachelor Party Etiquette It is here where most couples hit a pre-nuptial wall; the dreaded bachelor party. Basically this one night, intended to be light-hearted and fun, can sometimes create any tension between you and your wife-tobe. Be open and honest with her about the activities of the evening, ask her what she is comfortable with and try to come up with a night that pleases you both. If you cannot seem to come to an agreement try to make a list of parameters that you both can agree on. How to Choose the Perfect Bride’s Gift Just in case you aren’t yet aware of this age-old custom – it is now a reminder to you that it is customary for the bride and groom to exchange gifts the night before the wedding. A romantic idea could be to present your bride with a piece of jewelry or a family heirloom she can wear the day of your wedding. A heartfelt card describing your feelings of anticipation and happiness can’t hurt either.
How to Make Sure the Wedding Includes Your Vision as Well Before she starts brining out her thick notebook reserved for all things wedding, make sure you open the doors of communication at the start and let her know the specific elements of the wedding you want to be involved in. Maybe you two will reserve a night together to throw around ideas you can both agree on. Compromise is the key!
fun
facts for
Grooms 14
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The groom carries the bride across the threshold to bravely protect her from evil spirits lurking below. In Denmark, brides and grooms traditionally cross-dressed to confuse evil spirits! Stag parties were first held by ancient Spartan soldiers, who kissed their bachelor days goodbye with a raucous party. In many cultures around the world – including Celtic, Hindu and Egyptian weddings – the hands of a bride and groom are literally tied together to demonstrate the couple’s commitment to each other and their new bond as a married couple (giving us the popular phrase “tying the knot”). A Malaysian man holds the record for being a best man at 1,000 weddings In several countries, including Germany and Greece, the bride attempts to cover her new husband’s foot while dancing in order to establish dominance.
wedding guide
| January 2012
writing your own Vows
No. 1 Think about how you felt on your first date or the time you shared your first kiss. Take those emotions and streamline them into a mini story or anecdote. No. 2 Be light-hearted and don’t be afraid to mix it up with some humour.
No. 3 If you are stuck for content ask yourself some questions to evoke inspiration. What is the single greatest thing about the person you are going to marry? When did you know that you were in love/ know that this person was the one you wanted to marry? What does marriage mean to you? Why do you want to be a married person? What will change about your relationship once you are married? What will stay the same? What is your most favorite memory of your partner? When you were little, did you dream of your wedding day or your future spouse? How does that vision match up (or not) with your sweetheart?
No. 4 Be yourself! If you don’t usually use metaphors or lots of descriptors in your every day speaking, don’t start now. It will be far more endearing if your vows are simple, to the point and sweet as opposed to something that sounds like Shakespeare mixed with a dash of Keats. No. 5 Once you have finished your vows… Practice, Practice, Practice! The more you practice your vows the more natural they will sound when you read them to your honey.
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For many people, the thought of writing their own vows can seem like their own personal climb up Mount Everest. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Reading your own vows in front of all your family and friends can give your ceremony a heartfelt personal touch. Before you sit down in front of a white screen or empty page, have a talk with your fiancé first and give each other a word limit so your vows will both be relatively the same in length. After you have done that, do some brainstorming; the key is for your vows to sound as if you are saying them to your fiancé with no one else there. That way they will sound the most genuine. Some other tips are:
simple, sweet and to the point
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The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
15
children at the wedding?
No matter who you ask you will always find an extreme opinion when you mention the question of whether or not to allow children at your wedding. Some people say that adding kids to the guest list adds a more easy going feel to the tension that can sometimes arise when herding more than thirty adults into a room together. It’s fun to watch them shake a leg on the dance floor and even more fun when they are included in the ceremony. On the other side of the coin there are people that hands down, no argument believe children have no place at a wedding. If you feel that including the ankle bitters is for you we have a few tips that can help. Is your wedding style appropriate for children? If your wedding is a more formal affair, then it might not be the right environment for little jake and susie to be running around in. The more relaxed and informal the wedding, the more children will integrate better into it.
Consider if a kids menu is necessary If your menu consists of such adult delicacies as oysters, foie gras, and caviar then you might want to consider adding a few chicken nuggets to the menu for the tots. Depending on how many children will be attending you might want to consider lightening up the fare, at least for the parents’ sake.
Let your guests know as soon as possible Anyone who has kids knows that planning and organization is the glue that keeps life together. Be sure to call parents with kids to let them know their little ones are included or not. Usually if their names are on the invitations then it is a safe bet they are invited.
Create a special kids area Keeping in mind their short attention spans and endless amounts of energy, you might want to create a special room or corner complete with child friendly accoutrements. You would be surprised how far a few toys, books, blankets and a bean bag chair can take you when the evening starts to run well into the night.
Find specific jobs for the kids Whether it is manning the guest book, refilling waters or giving out favors, kids appreciate it when they are needed and almost always rise to the occasion. Plus you cannot deny the fun they bring into photos.
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The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
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here comes the bridesmaids
One of the most exciting parts of the wedding planning process is the task of choosing the bridesmaids. These ladies will be at your side for the next year while you plan your special day. They will be the ones to calm your jitters before you walk down the aisle and fluff your hair before its time for photos. But just because it is fun choosing the ladies, it doesn’t mean there aren’t challenges that come with the territory. If there is any potential for wedding day drama, a large portion has the potential to come from the bridesmaids, so when choosing, use your head before your heart, and consider our pointers; Family isn’t always the answer If you feel a nagging pressure from your family to include your sister- in- law or niece as one of your bridesmaids, think twice before you choose. Just because they are a member of your family it doesn’t mean they are going to be a good bridesmaid. You don’t need to return the invitation
spending a lot of time with these girls and if one girl sets off the balance that could contribute to much unneeded stress for you.
Just because you were in your old college roommate’s wedding don’t feel obligated to return the favor. Generally people are quite understanding, especially if they have been through a wedding of their own. Take personalities into consideration It might be tempting to add your sarcastic girlfriend to your mix of soft spoken conservative ex-roommates but take personalities into consideration. You are going to be
You can have more than one maid of honor If you have experienced countless nights tossing and turning about who you are going to choose to be your maid of honor out of your sister and your best friend, there is no official wedding warden who decides you can only have one. Sometimes decisions like these are not worth the hurt that can arise from them. If you truly want to have two right hand ladies then remember it’s your decision to make. Have a bridesmaids dinner, as a way for the girls to get to know each other If your bridesmaids aren’t well acquainted with each other, it might be a good idea to arrange a dinner with just you and the ladies. This will help to form a bond, making further gatherings down the road a lot less uncomfortable.
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The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
17
second
weddings second time around feel fear regarding the dress sitch. But maybe white is the best choice for you, because it is a symbol of a clean slate for you and your new husband. The good thing about a second wedding is that you’ve already had the first wedding so you ultimately know what works and what doesn’t. If white is outside of your comfort zone then now you have a good excuse to purchase that red designer dress you have been drooling over for months.
Like many other aspects of the wedding, you will encounter a variety of people with their opinions on how a second wedding should go down. And the truth of the matter is that, like having a first wedding you should just do what makes you most comfortable. Second time brides can tend to feel overwhelmed and confused about how a second wedding will measure up. Rules and regulations will float through your mind while ultimately leaving you paranoid at where to begin. No need to fear because any question you have ever had about second weddings will soon be answered. Second wedding dress...Is white really right? Because white is the ultimate symbol of purity, many women getting hitched the
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Kids Incorporated If you have children of your own as well as step children to be, I’m sure the topic of flower girl and ring bearer will come up. A good way to avoid hurt feelings is to incorporate all of the children in all wedding ceremony roles. If you have more than one girl then two flower girls never hurt anyone, and the same goes for ring bearers. There are people that even have their children walk
Cost concerns When it comes to ponying up the dough for a second wedding, parents should be off limits. Especially if they loosened the purse strings for your first walk down the aisle. Sorry to break it to you but typically second wedding costs should be split equally between the bride and groom. Gift or No Gift? Seeing as this is your second marriage, chances are you are set on the toaster and blender front. In fact you probably have most things newlyweds receive from their first weddings. If this is so then state politely on the invitation that bringing a gift will not be neccesary. Having said that, if you somehow lost everything in the divorce then do not fret, you will not be treated to be public stoning if you set up a bridal registry. Just keep it modest!
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them down the aisle. The good thing about second weddings is that you call the shots, no one else.
The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
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Shrinking wedding budgets have forced today’s bride to get a lot craftier and creative than her wealthy counterparts. Sometimes that means breaking out the hot glue gun and ribbon and going to town. A good way to cut costs is by putting on your Martha Stewart pants and accepting that wedding crafts really are a good thing. One specific craft you can put your own spin on is the seating chart, which will cost you under $20 to create once you have purchased all the materials. Step 1- Purchase an old gilt framed picture from your local thrift store. Remove the picture so you are left with only the frame and glass to cover it.
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Step 2- Purchase some good quality gift wrapping paper with an ornate design on it. Glue the wrapping paper to the cardboard backing that sat behind the original picture.
wedding Step 3- Purchase manilla shipping tags from a craft or office supply store and crafts then use the tags to show your guests where their table number is. Step 4- Write out every guest and group them on the shipping tags by table really number Step 5- Arrange the shipping tags on the gift wrapped cardboard and hot glue are a them in place. Step 6- Create a title banner with cardboard inscribed with you and your fiance’s good names on it, as well as the wedding date and hot glue that into place. Step 7- Place your gift wrapped cardboard complete with shipping tags and banner thing glued to its surface and place the glass in front of it (or no glass at all).
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Step 8- Arrange on a table adorned with old pictures, and antiques to give a whimsical shabby chic appearance.
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The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
19
all the trimmings
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like the icing on a cake
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Once you have found the perfect dress, it is safe to say that you have a pretty good idea of the look you are going for. Choosing the dress can be nerve racking due to the immense amounts of pressure on the bride to look like the belle of the ball, but when it comes to the accessories, it’s a fun chance to complete your look. The key is to not overdo the trimmings and let the accessories complete your look, like the icing on a cake. Because lets face it nobody wants their cake ruined with too much icing. Read on for more tips on how to find the best accessories to complete your bridal look.
have chosen a retro tea length lace dress that hits right above the ankle, raid your grandmother’s jewelery box for an antique broach or pearls. When it comes to the shoes, try your best to think comfort. I’m not saying to start getting fitted for orthopedics but do take into consideration that there are stylish shoes that are made to dance in. If you have chosen a shorter dress, then take a chance with colored shoes. They could be your something new and blue all in one. There’s no need to break the bank and spend too much time trying to find a clutch or purse that matches your dress to a tee, chances are you won’t even be photographed holding your purse. Antique malls or second hand stores are a good place to find a moderately priced evening purse with character.
If your dress is minimal and understated go for a statement bracelet, earrings and necklace to give your look some pizazz. Try to keep your jewelery continuous with the style of your dress. For example if you
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wedding guide
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wedding cocktail trend: punch
When one thinks of punch, pre-teen birthday parties in their parents basement in the late 70’s, or an awkward school dance probably comes to mind. Punch has definitely had its place in history, and it is coming back in massive way, especially for weddings, and engagement parties. Since the mid 17th century, wedding punch has been added to the extensive list of wedding traditions. Everyone wants to have a memorable one-of-a-kind punch at his or her big day. However, to make authentic wedding punch, you need to have an understanding of the history of punch, and its traditions. The first mention of punch dates back to the early 1600s in India. This is not to say that it was invented by the Indian culture, but simply that the original ingredients were found
there. They used the Hindi word panch, or the Persian word paatsch, both meaning “five”, to name the concoction, as the original recipe has five ingredients and this evolved into the English word punch. Punch was the most popular drink in the British Empire until just before the 20th century, when cocktails were developed. Cocktails were simply a less dilute version of punch. The popular beverage became a permanent fixture of all festive and important social functions, such as Christmas, and of course, weddings. And each event spawned its own series of special recipes, such as Christmas Wassail, and Blue Wedding Punch (until the Renaissance, blue was considered the color of purity, not white. Brides wore blue, hence the phrase “something borrowed, something blue…”).
USS Richmond Punch Ingredients 1 quart Jamaica Rum 1 quart Brandy 1quart strong black tea 12 Lemons 3 cups of White Sugar 1/3 pint ½ pint Curacao Just before serving add 10 bottles of soda water to 3 quarts of the concentrated punch stock. Use plenty of Ice. Muddle the peels of the lemons together with the sugar and let sit for an hour to let the oils leech out. Stir in 18 ounces of strained lemon juice and the tea (made with four tablespoons of loose tea or four bags, infused for no more than five minutes). Add liquor, strain, bottle and chill to serve. Pour into punch bowl halfway full of ice cubes and add liter of chilled seltzer for every quart of stock. Recipe submitted by Tyson Blume, Uli’s Restaurant, White Rock
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The Langley Times |
wedding guide
| January 2012
21
after all...
it's only one day By now all of your loose ends have been tied and all your lists have been checked and double checked. You have probably had your final dress fitting and everyone on the guest list has been confirmed.
it is easy to start worrying about the details of your big day and how they will all turn out. The best advise you could ever receive is that “Remember, It's only one day out of your entire life”.
Now the real challenge is to keep a cool head and curb your wedding jitters. During your cyclone of planning there probably wasn't much time to sit down and worry if you are going to trip down the aisle. Now that you are a couple days away from walking down the aisle and marrying the person you plan to spend the rest of your life with,
Once you put that single idea into perspective and truly grasp it, chances are you will immediately feel calm. Many brides obsess over the idea that various elements of their wedding day might not turn out perfect and the truth is that there is a large chance everything will turn out less than perfect, but perfect should not be your end goal, perfect is boring anyway. The best point of view you can have about your wedding is that you are there to make a public declaration and commitment to the love of your life and that is it. As long as the both of you show up, then whatever else happens will happen and even the imperfect moments will contribute to the uniqueness and excitement that will be your wedding day. So if the cake falls on the floor, look at it as a hilariously quirky photo opp, or if your dress rips have faith that because of that your hair will look even better. And above all enjoy every moment, because after all it is only one day.
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| January 2012
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| January 2012
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