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wonderful
Bridal weddings Spectacular CONTENTS Deluxe Bridal Packages TCU Place
Lighting Decor Pkg - $750 Value + Complimentary Roo Room m Rent R Rental ental ent al
Sequins Baubles & Beads by Cheryl
Dream weddings begin at Bridal Spectacular ��������������������������������������������� 4
Gift Certificate for custom designed wedding dress - $1500 Value
By appointment: private shopping parties ������������������������������������ 6
Hillberg & Berk
Fun in the sun weddings ���������������������������������� 8
Gemstone and Swarovski Crystal Bridal Statement Necklace and Matching Bracelet Valued Over $600
Eight top tips from Saskatoon wedding planners ��������������������������� 10 Getting there is part of the fun ����������������������� 14
Handy Special Events Decor Pkg - $1,000 Value White Sparkle Set (necklace and Earrings) Value $170
Hillberg & Berk
FruGala Decor $500 for Decor Planning $500 for Centrepiece Rental $500 for Stretch Chair Cover
Danielle Stasuik Photography
String Ensemble makes any occasion special ������������������������������������������ 15
$800 off chosen Wedding Collection
End the night with a bang ������������������������������� 16
Honeymoon Pkg - $500 value Tupperware – by Cora Putz $500 Gift Certificate
Eye worthy: lash extensions ����������������������������� 18
Brides n Belles $500 towards purchase of Wedding Gown (no cash value)
Ramada Hotel
Kris Photography $500 Engagement Pkg
Modern trends in wedding videography ��������� 20 Plan a wild west wedding �������������������������������� 22
Marlin Travel $500 Future Travel Voucher
Forever Captured Photography Day after session for Brides - $500 Value
Freeze Framz Photobooth $300 Gift Certificate
Bodacious Bustlines $250 Gift Certificate for Wedding Night Lingerie
Weddings Wonderful is an advertising feature of The StarPhoenix starphoenix special projects Editor
Supreme DJ’s/Mobile Monkey DJ Co. $250 Value
Living Skies Limousine Service
Participating Merchants
*Handy Special Events *Tux & Tails *Brides n Belles FruGala Decor Ramada Hotel Photobooth Central Armed with Harmony Of Georgia Photography *Hudson’s Bay Danielle Stasuik Photography Vacations Away Seacret-Nicole Ryan Park Town Hotel Uniglobe Carefree Travel Kris Photography The Glen at Crossmount Marlin Travel Tupperware *W Bridals – Curvy Couture Danceland DJ’s Sas Home & Floral Boutique E & J Gallo Elite DJ’s Hub City Display Freeze Framz Arbonne Exposure Photography Living Skies Limousine Sunlife Financial Services Daryl Rissling & Chris Kolinski Mortgage Associates Bodacious Bustlines TCU Place Supreme DJ’s/Mobile Monkey Carpe Diem Limousine PickNic’s Catering Kitchen Charm WeddingEscapes Sequins, Baubles & Beads by Cheryl *Champagne Bridal & Champagne Events Making Memories with Fifth Avenue Collection Eph Apparel Mary Kay Natural Choice Rejuvenation Kirsten Kohn Photography *Exquisite Fashions & Bridal Forever Captured Photography German Cultural Centre Ziqi Zhang Photography South Hill Designs Axis Imagery Saddles & Steel Music Productions Hillberg & Berk Riverbend Plantation Legacy Lounge The Snapdragon Studio
(Sun – Thurs) $200 Value ...Plus thousands of dollars worth of prizes from over 60 exhibitors!
Jeannie Armstrong Feature writers
Jennifer Jacoby-Smith Hilary Klassen Jackie Blakely Jesse Green PROJECT COORDINATOR
Doreen Greenwood Layout design
Christine Pearce
ABOUT THIS CONTENT
These stories were produced by StarPhoenix Special Projects to promote awareness of this topic for commercial purposes. The StarPhoenix editorial department had no involvement in the creation of this content. W EDDINGS WONDERFUL
September 20, 2015 12:30 - 5:00PM TCU Place ADMISSION Brides & Guests $10 at the door
Register in person at * Merchants or at www.picatic.com/bridal-spectacular2015
Modelling Agency
(306) 652-7484
Visit us online at www.bridalspectacular.ca or www.shemodelling.com Image: Forever Captured Photography | Gown: Brides n Belles
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Dream weddings
O
begin at
Bridal
Spectacular by Jeannie Armstrong SP Special Projects Editor photos supplied by mori lee
Over the past 27 years, Mary Obrodovich has shared in the joy of more than 20,000 Saskatoon and area brides. The owner of She Modelling, Obrodovich is the driving force behind Saskatoon’s longest-running wedding trade show and style showcase: Bridal Spectacular. With the next edition of Bridal Spectacular taking place on Sunday, September 20, Obrodovich is busy finalizing details for the gala show which will be held at TCU Place, from 12:30 to 5:00 p.m. Bridal Spectacular is a “must-do” for every bride and groom planning to marry in 2016. “At Bridal Spectacular, you can plan all aspects of your dream wedding,” says Obrodovich. “You can discover the latest trends, products and services from the city’s top wedding professionals, all in one afternoon, in one convenient location.” The show offers an opportunity to meet with wedding vendors and service providers in person to learn more about their products and services. “It’s so nice to be able to discuss your wedding plans, face to face, with our wedding experts. Shopping online for your wedding day can be risky; it’s so much better to have that personal connection,” says Obrodovich. The lengthy list of show exhibitors includes bridal gown boutiques, travel agencies, limousine services, music providers, wedding planners, florists, bakers, hair and make-up artists, wedding rentals, home decor and more! “We have long-time exhibitors, who always bring ‘the best of the best’ to our show. We know they’re on top of the latest trends and will offer them to our brides. We are also excited to welcome brand new wedding entrepreneurs to Bridal Spectacular.
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2015
Participating in our September show for the first time are Hillberg and Berk jewelry, several new photographers as well as a local bridal gown designer,” says Obrodovich. Saskatoon’s population has become more ethnically diverse in recent years, resulting in a big increase in culturally-themed weddings, notes Obrodovich. “These are huge celebrations, with family and friends travelling from afar to be part of the event. At Bridal Spectacular, couples planning a cultural wedding can explore all of the different options offered by the Saskatoon wedding community, blending cherished traditions with Canadian influences.” The highlight of the afternoon is the Bridal Spectacular fashion show, featuring the latest wedding finery from Brides N Belles, along with formalwear by Tux and Tails. Professional models from SHE Modelling Agency, representing all sizes of brides, will feature the season’s latest looks on the fashion runway. Debbie Simpson of Brides N Belles confirms that she has a fabulous collection of the latest wedding gowns and bridesmaids dresses lined up for the September 20 fashion show. “We’ll be presenting the latest styles from our leading designers including Madison, Mori Lee, Impression, Da Vinci, Jai and Callista.” The selection of gowns offered by these designers is so vast and diverse, Brides N Belles is easily able to accommodate brides of all sizes, notes Simpson. Among the latest trends that brides can watch for is the return to full or ballgown-style skirts, which Simpson says reflects a shift from the fit-and-flare gowns that have dominated bridal collections in recent years.
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The latest looks from top bridal designers including MoriLee will be featured by Brides N Belles at the Bridal Spectacular fashion show, taking place September 20 at TCU Place. It’s a chance for Saskatoon and area brides to see the newest trends in wedding finery for 2016. The trade show will feature all the latest trends, products and services from the city’s top wedding professionals.
Presents
The Perfect Prairie Wedding
While the strapless gown remains a classic choice, brides are showing interest in new designs featuring shoulder straps or cap sleeves. “A number of the newest gowns feature detachable coverlets, some with keyhole back detailing,” says Simpson. Lace remains the fabric of choice for today’s brides. “A new twist sees designers adding in subtle touches of colour to many of the gowns. There are lace as well as organza gowns with underlays in champagne, blush pink or caramel tones,” says Simpson. “Lace gowns can also be enhanced by a ‘blingy’ rhinestone belt or a feathery flower. You can add the bling to a lace gown the way you want, or not at all.” Pastel hues have reigned on fashion runways this year, so it’s not surprising that these soft, flattering shades are also being shown by bridal designers. “We’re seeing a lot of the bright pastels in bridesmaid gowns for 2016 – from soft pink to the mints,” says Simpson. The colour choices don’t stop there, she points out. “Whatever colours the bride wants to go with – light or dark – we’ve got it. That’s the way it should be. You should have the colour you like; it shouldn’t have to be based on the season or time of year.” Brides N Belles has been a part of the Bridal Spectacular fashion show since the downtown boutique opened over 30 years ago, says Simpson. “Bridal Spectacular, quite simply, is the best there is. It’s so well organized and has so much to offer!” Not only is Bridal Spectacular an enjoyable outing for brides, their friends and family members, it’s also an opportunity to win great prizes. Each of the participating exhibitors will be holding draws for valuable wedding products and services. All brides in attendance will also be entered to win the grand prize draw for a deluxe bridal package worth thousands of dollars. Plan now to attend the next Bridal Spectacular, Sunday, September 20 at TCU Place. Admission for brides and guests is $10 per person. Tickets can be purchased online at www.picatic.com/ bridal-spectacular2015 or at the door. For more information, check out Bridal Spectacular’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bridalspectacularsk. W EDDINGS WONDERFUL
Let our wedding specialists help you create the picturesque prairie wedding of your dreams with the Park Town Hotel in Saskatoon. Contact us at 306.667.6068 to meet with one of our expert advisors or visit our website at parktownhotel.com
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Photo credit: Avenue Photography avenuephotography.ca
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appointment Bridal boutiques now offer private shopping parties
by Kate Matthews for SP Special Projects Photos by hilary klassen / the starphoenix
P
Prince Charming has put a ring on it, your gaggle of girlfriends have agreed to bridesmaid duty, and you’ve filled your Pinterest board with the craftiest centerpieces Martha Stewart has to offer. Now comes the moment you’ve fantasized about since you first laid eyes on Cinderella’s shimmering, off-the-shoulder fantasy frock − choosing a dress. “Shopping for a wedding gown is an event, one that most women dream of their whole life,” says Aimee Schneider, general manager of Unveiled Dress Co. in Saskatoon. With the popularity of reality television shows like Say Yes to the Dress and I Found the Gown, “Women are realizing that buying a wedding dress should be an experience and not just another day of
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shopping,” notes Amy Grant of Champagne Bridal. Considering the average Canadian bride spends around $1,800 on her dress (making it one of the most expensive pieces of clothing most women will ever buy − and let’s not even talk about cost per wear), it’s understandable she would welcome a few perks while looking for the perfect thing to wear on her big day. Enter the private shopping party − a trend that has caught on in many of Saskatoon’s bridal boutiques. “Certainly all brides are provided with great one-on-one service when they don’t have a private appointment, however, a private party is just that − private. Appointments are after hours so the group gets the whole store to a u t u m n 2 015 e d i t i o n
themselves. There’s something to be said about hanging out with loved ones at such a special time in a person’s life. Family and friends really enjoy this time with the bride; they have time to give honest opinions and to drink champagne, eat cupcakes and have fun helping her find the perfect dress,” adds Grant. The two-hour parties take place after regular business hours (allowing the 9-to5 crowd to attend) and range in capacity and price depending on the boutique. Some stores will credit the cost of the party towards the purchase of a gown. Groups can expect the undivided attention of a designated stylist, comfortable seating for the whole entourage and the option to bring their own music. Not just W EDDINGS WONDERFUL
Family and friends really enjoy this time with the bride; they have time to give honest opinions and to drink champagne, eat cupcakes and have fun helping her find the perfect dress. Aimee Schneider, Unveiled Dress Co.
To offer a fun, relaxed atmosphere for bridal parties, local wedding boutiques have begun to offer private shopping parties. Unveiled Dress Co. recently hosted an after-hours private party for this bride and the members of her bridal party.
for the bride-to-be, these parties are also available to young ladies wishing to shop for their grad dress with their nearest and dearest. Each boutique provides their own signature touches, offering partygoers everything from champagne, to beauty products, to snacks and desserts. Exquisite Fashions and Bridal specializes in creating a “pressure-free and relaxed atmosphere,” according to store manager Kelsey Gudmundson. They skip
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the refreshments and offer private parties free of charge. “It’s a great time, especially when the entire bridal party can attend − it’s a lot of fun when they get to experience it all together. For girls who’ve never met, it’s chance for them to get to know each other. More importantly, the parties can be really special and a lot of fun.” Along with simplifying the logistics of group shopping, private parties have transformed the dress buying experience into an emotional and cherished event for the whole bridal party. “When our brides look back on the day they purchased their wedding gown at Champagne Bridal, they’ll remember laughter, tears, treats and an overall a good time. We want it to be special and memorable. We had a bride who was losing her mother to cancer, so she made a private appointment so they could enjoy the time together uninterrupt-
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ed. She found the perfect dress and her mother loved it and they shared that special experience. Sadly her mother did not make it to the wedding day, but our bride will always have that memory of having her mom there at such a special moment,” says Grant. “Life seems to get busier all the time and ladies jump at the opportunity to spend time together,” adds Schneider. Unveiled Dress Co. offers champagne, munchies and a shopping environment Schneider describes as “a little more free. The place is theirs to wander with a glass of bubbly in hand. They get to be themselves; they can be loud, full of energy and not feel like they’re interfering with anyone else’s experience. They can toss down their bag and get comfortable, it’s just more relaxed. And I’m sure the champagne doesn’t hurt!”
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FUN in the SUN weddings
T
Mexico among top destination wedding locations for 2016
by Jackie Blakely for SP Special Projects
There’s nothing more satisfying for a bride and groom than to know that their wedding will be a memorable experience for everyone. That desire is assured, with a destination wedding! Jamie Milton, owner of Uniglobe Carefree Travel Group, has made a business out of ushering young couples into the world of destination weddings. “We’re going to help you do it right,” says Milton, “and have fond memories.” The travel agency offers two locations in Saskatoon. Milton has been in the travel business for 26 years and shares the benefits of her experience with brides and grooms. “Couples need to think about a lot of things when planning a destination wedding,” Milton explains. First and foremost, she recommends that the bride and groom find a travel agent who is experienced with destination weddings, selecting someone they feel comfortable with. Contracts with the agents are hugely important for the bride and groom. “Look for a contract that spells everything out – what is the agent taking care of, what the bride and groom are responsible for, details of the wedding package, and details around flight changes,” says Milton. “There are a lot of bits and pieces in putting a wedding together.”
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Destination weddings for 2016 are favouring Mexico, which is typical for prairie travellers, but more couples are choosing to wed in Puerto Vallarta as opposed to the Mayan Riviera. The prices for Puerto Vallarta are lower, and there’s good value for group rates. “A lot of wedding groups are taking advantage of that,” says Milton. For the upcoming season, Puerto Vallarta is the most affordable destination. “There are lots of flights there, with several flights a week in the wintertime,” Milton says. “Between convenience and affordability, Puerto Vallarta has been really popular.” Milton and her agency help make sure the bride and groom will receive the best value for their dollar. “There are a lot of things that can get thrown into the package. Sometimes, the bride and groom can even travel for free,” says Milton. The agents at Uniglobe Carefree Travel Group makes sure you ask all the right questions. Some resorts offer free receptions, while other companies provide extras such as invitations, thank you cards and luggage for the bride and groom. Jamaica is also a popular destination for weddings. There are still many good package prices in Canadian dollars. Milton says that US destinations, however, are taking a downturn in the
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coming year, adding that people are now more inclined to go all-inclusive to Mexico, Jamaica or Cuba. “These options are nice when the dollar is uncertain and you’re not quite sure how much you’d be paying for a US destination versus an all-inclusive resort.” Uniglobe Carefree Travel assists the bride and groom with all of the paperwork, starting by looking into each country’s marriage requirements. “In some cases it makes sense to do the legal work in Canada and do the symbolic wedding destination,” says Milton. “Some locations are easier to get married in than others.” Jamaica and the US rank as the easiest destinations in which to marry. Getting married in Mexico and the Dominican Republic will involve more documentation and sometimes, Spanish translations. In these cases, it’s best to have the civil ceremony at home and the symbolic wedding at the resort. One thing that Milton is adamant about is obtaining travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect the investment in the holiday so if you get sick you will be reimbursed. “This is a must for the bride and groom. Without them – there’s no wedding,” she says. The agency’s travel professionals are hands-on when it comes to helping the couple plan the big event. “We put the bride and groom in touch with a wedding coordinator at the hotel and make sure they are on the right path to planning their wedding,”
The lower Canadian dollar has made Mexico a hot spot for destination weddings in 2016. Photos: fotolia.com
says Milton. The happy couple is then free to select the price range and scale of their nuptials. Some weddings are lavish and include exotic flowers, music, photography and catering, while others cater to a smaller budget. As for wedding size, in Milton’s opinion, 40 participants is about right. “That’s really manageable, without being stressful. “When you’re planning a wedding you want it to be a happy experience and not something that causes stress,” says Milton.
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306-955-1449 or 1-800-565-6562 www.uniglobevacation.com *Terms and conditions apply. For complete details and terms and conditions refer to the Transat Holidays 2015-2016 Weddings brochure. Transat Holidays reserves the right to modify the conditions, inclusion or withdraw offers at any time without prior notice. Transat Holidays is a division of Transat Tours Canada Inc., and is registered as a travel wholesaler in British Columbia (Reg #2454) with offices at 1090 West Pender Street, Suite 1110, Vancouver, BC, V6E 4N7.
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Eight
top tips
from Saskatoon wedding planners
Photo by Joi Photography
You found the perfect guy and he’s popped the question. Now it’s time to plan the perfect day to celebrate your new life together. Weddings Wonderful spoke with five Saskatoon wedding planners for their tips on making wedding planning as stress-free as possible. by Jennifer Jacoby-Smith of SP Special Projects
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Hire a wedding planner. Hiring a wedding planning might seem expensive, but it can be worth it. Often brides and grooms have busy lives with careers and families to take care of. A wedding planning will know not only the best service providers in the city, but who’s best suited to your budget and personality. Often the planner will keep you on budget and have innovative ideas to make your special day even more magical, while staying within your means. The wedding planner will also often have a team to assist with getting the venues ready. This leaves the bride and groom free to enjoy family without worrying about setting up decorations or who is cleaning up afterward. A wedding planner can also help give direction when things get heated with family. “It’s not uncommon for us to be texting with your mother-in-law when she has a different vision that doesn’t jive with yours,” says Molly Lux of Lux Events. “We can act as your friend, mediator, unbiased third party and that expert opinion that you can pull in when there are too many opinions. Surround yourself with the best team possible to make your day a resounding success.” Consider finding someone to help just for the day. Hiring a wedding planner to plan everything from start to finish can get expensive. For some brides and grooms it may simply not be affordable. Find someone who is not involved in the wedding party who can serve as a go-between with the venue, the caterer, or the DJ. Some wedding planners offer this service, as well, which may be a cost effective solution. “You don’t even know when there’s a hiccup and you can just enjoy your time with family, which is what it’s all about,” explains Becky ScharfsteinMcGettigan, from Life’s Moments Event Design.
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Choose a photographer and videographer that fit your personality. Obviously, budget is going to a big concern when it comes to finding professionals to document your day, but finding someone who meshes with your personal style is equally important according to Crystal Macleod of RSVP Event Design. “Those become a big part of your memories. So if you have a photographer that, for whatever reason, your personalities don’t seem to be mixing well, you’re going to remember that, because they’re going to be with you the entire day.”
ABOVE: Renting chairs or chair covers can be a cost effective way to have a big impact with your décor budget. Because of the large numbers, they can dominate a room. Photos supplied by RSVP Event Design BELOW: Choosing a table cloth with some texture is a great way to add impact when it comes to dressing the table. Photo supplied by Liett Wedding and Event Design
Distract difficult family members. Dealing with difficult family members is no easy task, but with weddings everyone’s emotions are involved. If you’ve got someone who’s trying to take over your day, it can be a good idea to find them something to do – such as planning the rehearsal dinner. “The best thing to do so that wedding planning can be less stressful with a Mom-zilla or any other challenging relative, is to delegate a part of the wedding planning to this difficult family member so that they feel involved, and are hopefully distracted by their responsibility,” says Bliss Wedding Designs’ Aviva Zack.
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Have a budget. And stick to it. “Whether it’s really extravagant or really modest, every wedding has a budget. Know what it is and know what you’re spending,” says Macleod. Macleod points out it is easy to lose track of spending – especially when planning takes place over several months. If you don’t want to take years to pay off your wedding day, keep track of your spending. Know where to spend your décor budget. A gorgeous ceiling or lighting application might be the stuff of fairy tales, but you might get more bang for your buck by renting or covering chairs, rather than using the ugly mismatched chairs the venue provides. “Chairs make a really big impact in a room, simply because of the quantity,” explains Macleod. “You have one hundred of anything, that’s what your eye goes to. So doing chair covers or bringing in special chairs, that’s going to make your biggest impact.” Don’t sweat the small stuff. No bride wants to hear that her dream wedding won’t go off without a hitch, but there are always complications. It’s part of life. There will be buttons to sew back on, catering mishaps, or venues that are smaller (or larger) than anticipated. “Don’t sweat the small stuff,” says Felicia Schule of Liett Wedding and Event Design. “When it’s all said and done, you and your spouse will be a happy married couple and no one will remember that you forgot your cake serving set and had to use one from the venue kitchen.”
Take a moment to savour the special day with just the two of you. Photo supplied by Becky Scharfstein-McGettigan
Take a moment to savour the experience. Sometimes the wedding day can be a bit of a blur, it’s important to focus on what really matters. “Just try to remember it’s about the marriage and what comes after. The planning is just to celebrate and to have a great time with your closest family and friends,” Scharfstein-McGettigan says. “Go back to the basics and remember why you’re doing this. And that you’re doing it because you’re in love and you want to spend the rest of your lives together. You want to make the day a reflection of the two of you – not everybody else.”
A wedding planner can take care of all the details, so you can focus on what’s important on your special day. Photo by MJ&Co. Wedding Photographers
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Last-minute wedding pointers While those last few weeks before a wedding day can be hectic, it’s important that the bride and groom stay focused and remember to perform a handful of tasks as their big days draw closer.
Prepare visitor ‘welcome’ bags. Many couples like to leave ‘goodie’ bags at the hotel to welcome their out-of-town guests. The weeks leading up to the wedding is a great time to prepare these bags and arrange for their drop-off with hotel personnel.
Speak to your vendors. Vendors play a big role at weddings, so it’s important that couples contact their vendors to confirm wedding schedules and ensure vendors have directions to the ceremony and reception locations, if necessary. Couples may also want to provide the phones numbers of their maids of honour and best men so vendors can reach them should something go awry or need to be addressed while couples are preparing for the ceremony.
Drop off personal items at the reception venue. Couples who have chosen to use personalized toasting glasses, cake servers and other personal items at their wedding receptions should drop such items off in the week leading up their weddings. Arrange this dropoff with your contact at the reception venue, at which time you also can confirm any additional details about your reception you might want to inquire about. (MNS)
Pay your vendors. Many vendors expect final payment a week or two before the ceremony, and it’s imperative that couples make these payments on time. Revisit all of your contracts to determine when the final installment of each vendor’s payment is due. Pay by cheque so you have a record that the final payment was made.
We’ve moved from our 8th St location to Downtown!
Confirm rehearsal reservations. Contact your ceremony venue as well as the restaurant where your rehearsal dinner will be held to confirm the time of the rehearsal and your dinner reservation. When confirming these details, it’s also good to make sure all bridal party members and family who will be attending the rehearsal and subsequent dinner have transportation to and from each venue.
•
Champagne Bridal & Champagne Events Unit 100 Mezzanine, Canada Building 105 - 21st St E Saskatoon SK S7K 0B3 306-477-2022 www.champagnebridal.ca
INTIMATE. ELEGANT. UNIQUE. St. Andrew’s College offers an intimate setting with historic charm and modern amenities on the University of Saskatchewan campus – the perfect venue for those seeking a unique, affordable location for an occasion to remember
The St. Andrew’s College chapel seats 100, while the lounge accommodates 150 guests in a comfortable setting. A modern kitchen provides everything for your own catering needs. For information, pricing or to view our facilities visit www.standrews.ca or call Melanie at (306) 966-8970
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Getting there
A chauffeur-driven party bus or SUV limousine can accommodate large bridal parties in style. Photo: fotolia.com
is part of the fun!
Engaged couples may be ready to walk down the aisle and begin their new life together, but first they have to get to the ceremony. Limousines continue to be popular choices, but other vehicles also may fit your needs. Couples who want to arrive in style may want to consider the following options. Take it to the water If you’re having a lakeside or seaside wedding, taking a water route to your ceremony can make for a dramatic entrance. Vessel options include speedboats, yachts or something more intimate, such as canoes or rowboats. Afterward, you can coast off into the sunset.
Take the party on the road Moving a large number of people in the wedding party takes forethought. Party buses and SUV limousines can fit a substantial amount of passengers, making them a more costeffective option for large bridal parties. These vehicles may be equipped with party lights, impressive sound systems and even minibars.
Arrive like royalty Take a page out of a favorite fairy tale and arrive in a horsedrawn carriage. Carriages can typically fit between two and six passengers.
Go eco-friendly If your ceremony is nearby, arrive on horseback or even peddling a bicycle. Such options are eco-friendly and, in the case of bicycles, may be free.
Step out of a classic movie Consider cars that embody your personal style: Rugged couples may want a classic pickup truck, while those who live life in the fast lane may prefer a vintage sports car.
When booking transportation for you and your wedding guests, remember to do so well in advance. In addition, get all agreements in writing, verify that the company is licensed and insured and provide directions and the itinerary to drivers. This will ensure things go smoothly. (MNS)
Brides - n - Belles Ltd.
714 2nd Ave. N Saskatoon 652-2923
We carry gowns by Madison Morilee Cassidy Sara Fabulous Formals Impressions Da Vinci Jai Elegance Venus Callista
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T
T
String Ensemble
makes any occasion special
The Saskatoon String Ensemble is a flexible and versatile entertainment service. This ensemble of professional musicians will perform any kind of music, anywhere, for any kind of event, with any number of players. They most often perform as a string quartet, but can expand to a small string orchestra, or can downsize to a trio or duo for smaller locations and budgets. Their extensive repertoire includes the traditional classical repertoire for string quartet, as well as arrangements of jazz standards, and contemporary music. They really can play anything from Bach to Beethoven, Gershwin and Cole Porter, Argentinian tangos and Scott Joplin, right on up to the entire Beatles songbook, themes from the movies, and contemporary songs and soft rock. The Ensemble will take special requests and then make arrangements of almost anything – and they have had some unique requests! Recent weddings have featured groomsmen arriving to music from Star Wars and couples exiting their ceremony to the music of Viva la Vida by Coldplay. Weddings with a theme such as Beatles music, Disney songs or movie theme songs, are also popular trends. Book early for 2016 to avoid disappointment as they performed at over 50 weddings in 2015! Saskatoon String Ensemble can play at large and small venues, indoors or outdoors. They can easily move locations during an event – such as from the ceremony to the cocktail reception, and
From award ceremonies to weddings, the Saskatoon String Ensemble promises to make your function more entertaining. Photo supplied
then on to the dinner. There are a multitude of possibilities for potential events where the Ensemble can provide live music including cocktail parties, dinner parties, birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, christenings, conferences, product and company launches, theatre productions, awards ceremonies and art exhibitions to name a few! Music promises to enhance the desired mood at a function: fun, lively, jazzy, romantic, formal, traditional, reflective, soft, regal, majestic, or jubilant. Inspired live music performed by the Saskatoon String Ensemble will transform events into special moments with distinction and an experience of lifetime. Bookings can be made online or by telephone. Call Marla Cole at (306) 292-6811 or (306) 384-7464. For details, visit www. saskatoonstringensemble.com. This article was contributed by Marla Cole of the Saskatoon String Ensemble
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End the night with a
bang!
Todd Schafer, owner of The Firework Addict, prepared a 30 minute fireworks show for the Dundonald Canada Day celebration in July.
Y
by Hilary Klassen of SP Special Projects photos by todd schafer
You may have noticed that addicts (and that’s most of us) can become fairly creative in getting their fix. The Firework Addict gets his fix more legitimately than most by doing spectacular live fireworks shows, at weddings, community fun days, special holidays, parties, centennial shows and wherever people want him to be. It was a fishing trip that spawned Todd Schafer’s addiction. The owner of Firework Addict went up north with some buddies and one night, they were all treated to a show. Some research and a few private parties later, he launched his company. His wife came up with the name, so the addict part may not be total fiction! For weddings, people like to have fireworks for the first dance, in between dinner and the speeches, or possibly at midnight, says Schafer. He typically does a site survey first. “I check out the lay of the land and choose the best place where I can shoot it so people can just walk out of the tent and watch,” he says. Firework shows consist of roman candles, barrages, shells, fountains, and a wide variety of vertical and angled cakes. “I basically design the whole show,” says Schafer. “I like to include a variety of everything, so
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Having a specialist handle your fireworks brings in a level of knowledge and expertise that, given the subject matter, is not a bad idea.
everyone can see all different types of fireworks. I try to change it up, do different colours, never the same firework back to back.” Schafer did a Canada Day show for the Dundonald community which he says was probably his best show ever. “It was pretty awesome,” he says. “It was a huge show, probably about 30 minutes. We had a band playing and I got the DJ to play some music during the fireworks. It was a really good show!” Schafer enjoyed all the positive comments, FB messages and emails after. Choreographing music with fireworks is not the easiest thing, but Schafer is a longtime music lover and loves doing it – new music, old music, kids’ music. He speaks wistfully of computer generated programs that do the job for you. “You just punch in your song and the type of fireworks you bought and the program puts everything together. It basically tells you what to shoot when, so it’s very simple.” For now he enjoys the challenge of doing it manually. At weddings, music plays up the romance, with Hollywood movie theme songs a popular choice. Having a specialist handle your fireworks brings in a level of knowledge and expertise that, given the subject matter, is not a bad idea. Schafer is certified and registered with the City of Saskatoon and can help client with permits, insurance and safety considerations. Fireworks have an expiry date and can become dry and weak. “The tubes can become brittle, implode, and then
tip over making the firework shoot towards you. I will make sure I use newer fireworks so this will never happen,” he says. Many of the wedding shows Schafer does are out of the city on an acreage. Because of all the regulations the City of Saskatoon has about fireworks, and the price of liability insurance, it’s often more cost effective to do shows outside the city. The shows themselves range in price based on duration. A show of about five to seven minutes will cost clients about $500 to $1,000. Community fun days and celebrations, etc, usually go for around $1,000, $1,500 or $2,000. Schafer has done a couple of centennial day celebrations for communities that ran around the $3,500 mark. As a bona-fide addict, Schafer would love to do firework shows full time. While the business is somewhat seasonal he is available to do winter shows, like he did for a Lawson Heights Community Winter Fest last February. “What I love about this is, fireworks always put smiles on people’s faces, it’s always happy. I’ve never heard of anyone going to a fireworks show and feeling sad after,” says Schafer. Schafer is already booking for next year. If your wedding is going to be outdoors and you’ve got some sky, think about ending your special night with a bang! It’s only fitting since your relationship probably started with fireworks! Visit thefireworkaddict.com for more information.
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glamour! L Eye worthy
lash extensions add
by Jesse Green for SP Special Projects
photos: londin lash studio
Who doesn’t want to bat those lashes like Beyoncé? Today’s brides are bringing red carpet glam to their big day with a set of lush lash extensions, just like Queen B herself.
Londin Lash Studio Ltd. is a newcomer to Broadway Avenue and, with its opulent decor and professional service, is quickly earning a reputation in Saskatoon’s esthetic hall of fame. There are three types of extensions available, but Londin Lash chooses to forgo the synthetic option and offers only silk and mink lashes. The mink and silk are softer, more natural looking and are lighter. The lashes are separated and each individual eyelash is fitted with its own extension. They are applied with a Health Canada approved adhesive, which should only be used by a qualified technician. No need to call the animal protection hotline, because no minks are harmed when the “lashes” are collected during the shedding process. As for the style and size of your new lashes, there are a few options. The ‘Emma’ mimics a natural mascara with a bit of added length and volume. The ‘Bria’ is more of show stopper – its full look has tons of length and dexterity. The ‘Sophie’ offers a glamorous wing effect and delivers drama and volume galore. So, the question is, how are these lashes superior to simply curling and adding mascara? “A lot of people can’t believe the difference it makes. Your eyes are the most vivid part of your face, and it opens them up so-so much,” says Londin Lash Studio owner and stylist Brianna vanDuyvendyk. “We have clients saying they are wearing less make up in general, because they wake up feeling brighter and better about how they look.” In addition to this huge confidence boost, vanDuyvendyk says her clients can’t believe how much time it gives them each morning. It is good bye to rush-jobs, smudges and mascara clumping and hello bright eyes.
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Lash extensions are becoming a must-have for glamour-seeking brides. Londin Lash Studio specializes in silk and mink lash extensions.
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and brows was very much intentional, About three weeks from the initial allowing Londin Lash to excel in its application there will be some fallout niche. from the lashes because eyelashes do For those maids of honour who shed like any other hair on our bodies. aren’t ready to commit the time or Londin Lash recommends coming money on extensions, there is an in for a fill, when a stylist will sift alternative to drug store synthetic through lashes looking for any that lashes. Velour Lashes are strips of need to be removed or repaired. Waithandmade, lightweight authentic ing much longer than three weeks isn’t mink hair mounted on a cotton band. recommended, as things may become The application is simple, the lashes a little sparse after the four-week are flexible and can be reused up to 25 period. times. As with the extensions, these Maintenance is pretty simple. fab lash lines are cruelty-free. Choose Rule One: Keep the product oil from options like, ‘T Dot Ohh!,’ ‘Hey free – it is damaging to the adhesive ‘Before’ and ‘After’ photos show the dramatic difference Shawty’ or ‘You Complete Me’ for and will wreak havoc with the extenthat lash extensions make. just the right level of drama. sions. Make-up remover and moisturKnowing you’re going to be izers must all be oil free. photographed more than a Kardashian at the supermarket is a Rule Two: Steer clear of mascara. If you absolutely must apply mascara, make sure it’s made for lash extensions and, again, great motivation to say goodbye to mascara worries. So, for the style-savvy bride it has to be ‘something old, something new, it must be oil free. And, be aware that even a made-for-extension something borrowed and something... mink! Even the most mascara can take a long time to remove. Rule Three: Hands off! Don’t pick and pull at the lashes, and stressed bridezilla will leave Londin Lash feeling relaxed, confithey will do their own thing. “They very much take care of them- dent and ready to negotiate seating plans with her mother-in-law. Be sure to watch out for Brixton, the studio dog. He is a genselves,” said vanDuyvendyk. tle, playful little fluff ball about the size of a soup can, and does a Aside from being a lash superstar, Londin Lash stylists offer great job as Londin Lash’s greeter. brow shaping by tweezing and plucking rather than waxing. You can find Londin Lash Studio at 632 Broadway Ave and “We find that one hair can really make a difference in shaping a online at www.londinlash.com. brow,” said vanDuyvendyk. The decision to stick to only lashes
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A
Modern trends
in wedding videography A couple’s wedding day is often a whirlwind for the bride- and groom-to-be. Happy couples hope to remember every little detail, but that can be difficult when so much is going on. That is why many brides and grooms hire videographers to preserve the memories of their weddings. Couples who fail to capture their ceremony and reception on film may feel like they missed out once their big day has come and gone. As a result, a professional videographer can be a wise investment. Today’s wedding videos have come a long way from their poorly produced predecessors. Gone are the potentially cheesy soundbites and elevator music. Many of today’s videos are artfully edited and highly cinematic productions that could have couples wishing they were viewing videos in theaters. The following are some wedding video trends popular among today’s couples.
Brief clips and highlights Few people want to sit through their entire wedding day frame-byframe. Montages of key elements of the day are much more popular
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than a chronological unfolding of the ceremony and reception. Some videographers like to show snippets of what’s to come at the start of the wedding video, then go into more extensive segments later on.
Some videographers will edit portions of the ceremony and preparations for the big day in the time between the ceremony and reception. This gives all guests, including those who may not have been able to make the ceremony, the chance to view the nuptials.
Special filters or film Filters and lighting effects can give a wedding video an entirely different feel. For example, filming in 8mm can lend a grainy touch to the video and make it seem ethereal or even part of a home movie collection. However, few people want the stark reality of a high-definition camera that highlights every flaw.
Unobtrusive technology This trend relates to the equipment used to capture wedding memories rather than the actual finished product. No one wants their view of the ceremony or reception to be marred by a big, bulky camera. Smaller video cameras enable videographers to seamlessly blend in and perhaps capture shots that larger cameras could not.
Film chapters Dividing segments of the video into different chapters allows viewers to fast forward to the parts they want to see and pass those they can skip. This saves the hassle of having to watch the video in its entirety.
Preserving wedding memories takes on new meaning when couples explore the growing trends in wedding videos. (MNS)
Cinematic styling Instead of a stationary camera on a tripod, this method of filming incorporates different angles and close-up shots to give the video a modern feel. It’s shot more like a movie than a documentary, allowing viewers to feel as though they’re really experiencing the event. Artistic, indy feel Film buffs may want a wedding video that breaks the mold. Ask videographers to create something that would fit in at the Sundance or Tribeca film festivals. Same-day editing Want to revisit the ceremony at your wedding reception?
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Wild west S Plan a
WEDDING
by Jackie Blakely for SP Special Projects
photos: champetre county
Saddle up the white steed and put on your cowboy hat – Wild West weddings in the little town of Tumbleweed will allow you to have a wedding that takes you back in time! Todd Edmondson, owner/operator of Champetre County, helps any bride and groom get married in style. “We try to do everything opposite from standard banquet halls,” says Edmondson. “We don’t have any rules so to speak. We even allow people to put up decorations with staple guns. Everything we use to construct buildings is recycled lumber. It gives it an old look in new construction. You just don’t go down to Home Depot and get a couple lifts of lumber and build what we have. It gives it a country relaxed feel. It’s ideal for a country wedding.” Edmondson is excited about the family business. “We try to brand ourselves completely different, doing a 180 from any hotel in Saskatoon.” The business began in 1995 when the family classified their farm as agricultural-tourism. The 320 acres offers a backdrop of large crop fields and a trail system with chokecherries,
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Fotolia
saskatoon berries and sea buckthorns. The family began the business with school tours and it slowly evolved to the wild west theme town it is today. Now, to complement weddings and other events, they offer hayrides and even a sheriff to provide interpretive tours on the trail, which leads to an old farmstead that they maintain. This helps folks get a feel for the time period. “We have a saloon called the Howling Coyote Saloon. Complete with a licensed bar, this saloon is ready to host a wedding. It even comes with a stage for the band and rooms upstairs for the wedding party,” says Edmondson. The town hall will hold larger groups of up to 325 attendees. While the saloon is open year round, the town hall is only used in good weather months. If an outdoor wedding is more your style, kick back and get married in the special occasion garden that seats from 300 to 400 people. The garden is planted with mature trees and evergreens, and a bevy of beautiful flowers. A full-time gardener ensures the scenic garden always looks its best. Check-in is Friday after lunch, while check-out is Sunday at 2:00 pm. This provides lots of time for the wedding rehearsal on Friday and the late check-out allows for a relaxing departure from the site. Edmondson says that often “brides will ask to be sent an event package for review, but every wedding is so different. We encourage prospective brides and grooms to make an appointment for a consultation so the happy couple can see the
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‘Wild west’ themed weddings are trending with brides and grooms for 2016. Saskatoon area couples don’t have to go far to get an authentic western backdrop for their wedding. Champetre County, located just 25 minutes east of Saskatoon at St. Denis, provides a complete wild west wedding experience.
For us, it’s bring your dress, bring your smile, and we’ll do the rest that needs to be done! todd edmondson, owner/operator, champetre county
property and do a walkthrough.” After showing them examples of other weddings held at Champetre County, Edmondson then takes the couple’s dream, complete with customizations, and makes it happen. Among the custom options that are on offer to brides and grooms is the use of their team of Clydesdales and a wedding coach. “We can take off the wall requests and make them a reality,” says Edmondson. Champetre County is a kid-friendly, private event centre and holds many weddings throughout the season, as well as other events throughout the year. “It’s a closed venue so you can turn the kids loose in the recreational area and still keep tabs on them,” says Edmondson. “We
have a corral maze, horseshoe pits, a ball diamond and a small animal barn.” The rustic site is far enough away from the road that children can have fun and no one has to worry. The turnkey operation is licensed and it is an inspected food site, ensuring that every delicious morsel is up to standards. Their custom catering offers homecooked meals for large or small buffets. Says Edmondson, “For us, it’s bring your dress, bring your smile, and we’ll do the rest that needs to get done!” Services include bartenders and banquet staff. Located about 25 minutes east of Saskatoon on Highway # 5, Champetre County and its little town of Tumbleweed sits, nestled in the heart of the prairie. This centre is not open on a daily basis, however, if there is a wedding in your future make sure you head on out and talk to the folks at the Howling Coyote Saloon. They’ll tell you a few stories and set you up for a right nice wedding. For more details go to www.champetrecounty.com.
Passion Live
with
Inspired live music performed with passion to transform your event into an experience of a lifetime.
www.saskatoonstringensemble.com
Ph: 306-292-6811
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