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WEDDINGS W I N T E R 2 0 17
ON OUR COVE R
For Exquisite Fashions & Bridal, Jill Martin sparkles in this amazing ball gown from Maggie Sottero’s latest collection. The whimsical ball gown features a fitted bodice with a subtle illusion sweetheart neckline and straps, embellished with embroidered lace, eye-catching Swarovski crystals and intricate beading. The dreamy ball gown skirt is fashioned from weightless layers of tulle that cascade from the gown’s natural waistline. The gown’s illusion V-back, finished with sparkling crystal buttons, exudes drama. Exquisite Fashions & Bridal 1202 Quebec Avenue www.exquisitefashions.ca
Jill’s bouquet is a floral fantasy come true, created by Barb Stefanyshyn-Cote of Black Fox Farm & Distillery. This abundant bouquet in blush and white tones unites all the elements of a romantic garden flower wedding. www.blackfoxfarmanddistillery.com PHOTOS BY ELAINE MARK, D&M IMAGES
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Dream COME TRUE!
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W EDDINGS WONDERFUL
wonderful
Bridal WEDDINGS Spectacular
CONTENTS 5 7 12 16 18 20 22
Make the most of Bridal Spectacular All inclusive wedding in Saskatoon Farm Fresh local flowers
Deluxe Bridal Packages Handy Special Events Decor Pkg - $1,000 Value
TCU Place
Book a wedding for 2017 & receive complimentary room rental, including a lighting & decor pkg - up to $750 value
Hillberg & Berk
White sparkle set (necklace & earrings value of $170) Bridal Statement necklace & matching bracelet - Valued at over $600
Brides & Belles
$500 towards purchase of wedding gown (no cash value)
Elite DJ’s
Wedding dance Wedding cakes with wow
Uplighting pkg for a new booking - $350 value
Bodacious Bustlines $250 gift certificate for wedding night lingerie
LCD Productions $750 gift certificate
Beachfront wedding Wanuskewin weddings
Carpe Diem Limousine Service One hour limo bus ride - Valued at $275
Sequins Baubles & Beads $500 gift certificate for custom veil or beaded custom belt
David’s Distinctive Men’s Apparel One custom designed shirt - Valued at $225
Danielle Stasuik Photography Engagement Session - Value at $600 ...Plus thousands of dollars worth of prizes from over 60 exhibitors!
EDITOR
JEANNIE ARMSTRONG
WRITERS
JENNIFER JACOBY-SMITH JESSE GREEN HILARY KLASSEN ASHLEIGH MATTERN
PHOTOGRAPHY
ELAINE MARK, D & M IMAGES
ART DESIGN
CHRISTINE PEARCE
ABOUT THIS CONTENT
This section was created by Content Works, Postmedia’s commercial content studio.
Participating Merchants Brides n Belles Tux & Tails Handy Special Events Hudson Bay Hillberg & Berk Ramada Hotel Uniglobe Carefree Travel Danceland DJs Exquisite Fashions & Bridal Home Outfitters Armed with Harmony Living Skies Limousine Services Sunlife Financial Supreme DJs Mary Kay - Kari Danysuik Creative Touch Wedding Design Windmill Flowers Kitchen Charm Carpe Diem Limousine Service W Bridals - Curvy Couture Danielle Stasuik Photography RBC - Claire Clark Lipsense by Senegence Sequins Baubles & Beads Elite DJs Park Town Arbonne - Carmen Heggstrom EPH Apparel Mom’s Catering Wedding Escapes.ca Delta Bessborough Almost Heaven Bodacious Bustlines Exposure Photography Marlin Travel The Glen at Crossmount Freeze Framez Photobooth Hilton Garden Inn PickNic’s Catering Valentus U of S Marquis Hall TCU Place Costco Wholesale German Cultural Centre LCD Productions Tupperware - Trina Kreiser David’s Distinctive Men’s Apparel Louis’ Black Fox Farms Distillery WC Food Services Quinn’s World Salon Blaine Lake Liquor LB Distillers / Lucky Bastard Dakota Dunes Hot Tamales The Beach Suntan Studio Thirty One Gifts Kris Photography De’Amore Boutique Simple Solutions Weight Loss SAS Home & Floral Boutique
January 15, 2017 12:30 - 5:00PM TCU Place ADMISSION Brides & Guests $15 at the door
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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Belle
SILVER
Wearing Blu by MoriLee for The Dress, Maia Langen shines in a fantastic Cinderella-style ballgown with a sparkling silver beaded corset and floating tulle ball gown skirt. The beautifully fitted bodice is covered in silver beads and features a flattering sweetheart neckline, drop waist and a lace-up back to ensure the perfect fit. MoriLee achieves the perfect ball gown skirt from layers of delicate tulle with a romantic sheer overlay. A crystal edge veil adds to the regal splendour of Maia’s look, also from The Dress. The Dress 123 Auditorium Avenue www.thedressbridal.com Succulent bouquets are an exciting new wedding trend, as seen in the bouquet created for Maia by Barb Stefanyshyn-Cote, of Black Fox Farm & Distillery. Unique colours and interesting textures characterize a succulent bouquet. After the wedding, the succulents can be planted as a lasting keepsake. www.blackfoxfarmanddistillery. com PHOTO BY ELAINE MARK, D&M IMAGES
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Spectacular 7 reasons why you should be at
bridal
jeannie armstrong
smartphone or laptop, at bridal spectacular you can examine actual products using all of your senses: touch, taste, hear, smell and feel. bring along your colour samples and fabric swatches to make comparisons and get suggestions from the pros!
Bridal Spectacular is Saskatoon’s premier wedding show, taking place Sunday, January 15 at TCU place. Photo: Getty Images
a
re wedding bells ringing for you in 2017? Get the members of your bridal squad together and head to TCU Place on sunday, January 15 for saskatoon’s premier wedding show: bridal spectacular. Here’s why:
1. Bigger, Better! bridal spectacular is saskatoon’s largest and most established wedding trade show, featuring an exciting mix of more than 70 long-time and brand new exhibitors. bridal spectacular organizer, Mary obrodovich of she Modelling, anticipates over 800 brides and guests will attend the glamourous event next weekend at TCU Place. 2. What’s neW? in just one afternoon, you can discover the newest trends in our city’s wedding market – from bridal fashions, flowers and accessories to a diverse range of products and services. “Couples will find everything they need for their special day at bridal spectacular, from great venues to caterers, cake designers, photography and entertainment,” says obrodovich. new at bridal spectacular is an exhibit by lCd Productions. Their wedding entertainW EDDINGS WONDERFUL
ment packages include a dJ, music, special lighting effects, pyrotechnics, videography – even an interactive hypnosis show. black Fox Farm & distillery joins bridal spectacular for the first time. located on Valley road, the family-owned farm can be booked as a one-of-a-kind wedding venue. black Fox has also developed a following for its stunning bridal bouquets, featuring blooms picked fresh from the on-site flower farm. The black Fox name is probably best known for its distillery, producing award-winning spirits from locally grown ingredients. 3. Discover the trieD anD true bridal spectacular is proud to be a showcase for many long-time exhibitors, says obrodovich. “brides and grooms can be confident booking wedding services at bridal spectacular, knowing that companies like Handy special events, The bay, brides-n-belles and Tux & Tails have been in my show for three decades.” 4. talk to the pros bridal spectacular is a convenient way to discuss your wedding needs with the city’s top professionals – in person and all under one roof. instead of merely looking at pictures on your w i nt e r 2 017 e d it ion
5. Fashion extravaganza The highlight of every bridal spectacular is the glamourous runway fashion show, turning the spotlight on 2017’s top wedding fashion trends. Professional models from she Modelling will show off the latest looks from brides-nbelles and Tux & Tails, with dazzling jewellery from Hillberg & berk and fresh bouquets designed by Windmill Flowers. additional bridal fashions will be featured at displays by exquisite Fashions & bridal, and W bridals Curvy Couture. 5. get revveD! bridal spectacular is a great way to get your bridal party focused on and excited about your big day! as you explore, taste and sample your way through the show, you can get feedback from your bridesmaids, family members – and of course, the groom! Your bridal squad can also help carry the take-away brochures, cards and goodies offered by exhibitors. 6. Win great prizes! bridal spectacular is a treasure trove of great prizes! Your admission enters your name for the deluxe bridal Package, valued at thousands of dollars. each exhibitor at bridal spectacular also offers super door prizes, so take time to enter at every display.
7. great value admission to bridal spectacular is just $15 per person. Tickets are available at the door. bridal spectacular is open from 12:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.; don’t miss any of the excitement! For more information, visit www.bridalspectacular.ca, check out their Facebook page, or call (306) 652-7484. paG E 5
For the bride who won’t settle for anything less than sensational, Mylynh Bridal & Sew presents this delightful hint-of-blue gown worn by Jeanny Buan with Masala Modelling. A flattering sweetheart neckline distinguishes the gown’s sculpted bodice, which features beaded lace and an eyelash fringe scallop trim at the waist. The full A-line skirt in a soft, subtle shade of blue, is topped by four layers of tulle and adorned with non-beaded lace appliques. Scalloped lace and horsehair trim extend along the entire hemline to maintain the shape of the skirt. Jeanny’s jaunty pillbox hat and veil are also from Mylynh Bridal & Sew. Mylynh Bridal & Sew 106A – 1640 Idylwyld Drive N. www.facebook.com/ mylynhbridalandsew Jeanny’s hair and makeup artistry by Kelsie Martin, with The Lemon Tree Salon & Studio. Planning a winter wedding? Everlasting dried bouquets are beautiful indoors and out., no matter the weather. Jeanny’s bouquet features an intriguing mix of dried prairie flora from Black Fox & Distillery’s own flower farm. www.blackfoxfarmanddistillery. com.
Truly BELOVED PHOTO BY ELAINE MARK, D&M IMAGES
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l -inclusive WEDDING
ENJOY AN
without leaving Saskatoon
JENNIFER JACOBY-SMITH
“W
The Perfect Connections wedding package at the Radisson in Saskatoon takes care of all the details for $99 per guest. From getting ready before the ceremony to enjoying a fabulous reception and all the details in between, the team at the Radisson has made all the right connections for you. Photos: Radisson W EDDINGS WONDERFUL
e were trying to do something different at our hotel that nobody else in our market does,” explains Amanda Cisecki, director of sales and marketing at the Radisson Hotel in downtown Saskatoon. The Hotel offers an all inclusive package called the Perfect Connection Wedding Package. It combines everything a bride and groom would want for their wedding right at the hotel for a single price - $99 per person. “We wanted to stay as neutral as possible and let them pick out those details, but put them all into one price package so they can walk in and we can say, ‘Hey here’s our package.’” The $99 even includes a 17 per cent gratuity – which can really add up when you’re planning for hundreds of guests. All brides and grooms have to do is take $99 multiply by the number of guests and add GST. Before the ceremony the bride and groom each get a room with their attendants starting at 9 or 10 in the morning for them to get ready in. The room comes with snacks, as well – fruit and champagne for the women and beer and house-made chips for the guys. The package includes a one hour reception before the meal with white-gloved staff passing appetizers and a signature cocktail chosen by the couple. As for décor, as Cisecki points out the Radisson has “made the connections for you.” The Package includes a chair cover for every chair and a white tablecloth for the round table. They also get to visit Handy Rentals to choose an overlay, runner, and napkins.
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Unveiled Dress Company presents Kristen Doktor in a modern and edgy gown by Mikaella. Designed for the young, spirited bride who wants to stand out on her wedding day, Mikaella gowns are the perfect balance between classic silhouettes and the latest bridal trends. Shown in a flattering shade of natural white, this stunning two-piece gown begins with a cropped lace top distinguished by a bateau neckline and cap sleeves. Swarovski-adorned buttons along the back add sparkle. The separate crépe lining top peeks through the lace. The high-waisted fit-and-flare crépe skirt, with multiple shaped seams, beautifully accentuates the bride’s curves. Unveiled Dress Company completes Kristen’s look with a blush pink organza floral crown, Marquise crystal earrings and a matching bracelet, all by Bridal Classics. Unveiled Dress Co. Ltd. 152 Second Avenue North www.facebook.com/Saskgowns Kristen’s hair & makeup artistry by Meaghan Butler, owner of Fresh Hair Salon in Waskesiu. All-foliage bouquets are an exciting new wedding trend, as seen in Kristen’s arm bouquet, designed by Barb Stefanyshyn-Cote of Black Fox Farm & Distillery. Greenery in all of its glory produces a full and luxurious look that is stunning as an arm bouquet or carried at your side. www.blackfoxfarmanddistillery.com PHOTOS BY ELAINE MARK, D&M IMAGES
Bride
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All-inclusive wedding c o n t i n u e d f r o m pag e 7
The couple doesn’t need to worry about a thing, the hotel takes care of delivery of the linens as well as making sure they get returned to Handy Rentals. The Handy Rentals options allows the bride and groom to customize the look of the reception to their own vision with a choice of colours and designs. The wedding package also includes an AV package with LCD projector, screen and computer audio connection with their sound system, plus a podium and mic for the very important speeches. The Perfection Connection package provides a choice for dinner – a full buffet with a selection of two entrees or a four course plated dinner with select entrees to choose from for each guest. The chefs love to make sure there are fun options available for the kids, as well. Some of the delicious choices the chefs have put together include butternut squash soup with spiced crème fraîche, butter lettuce caprese salad with grape tomato, mini bocconcini, basil and balsamic vinaigrette, maple smoked supreme breast of chicken with natural jus, and for dessert a Saskatoon berry cheesecake with wild berry sauce. Of course, there are plenty of options and the menu is always customizable to food sensitivities and ethnic preferences. After the dance, there is also a midnight lunch provided with traditional meat and cheese platters with vegetables and dip. The lunch can be upgraded to something else – such as a taco bar – for extra cost. When the party is all over, the bride and groom can retreat to the bridal suite for the night complete with champagne. Room service is also available for breakfast in the morning. On their one year anniversary the
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We always say your guests are going to remember the food. And the party. We’re just trying to rethink things here and do things a little bit differently. And really take care of everyone’s details for them so we make the process less stressful, but still fun. AmAnDA CISeCkI, RADISSOn HOTeL SASkATOOn
couple also receives a complimentary overnight stay to celebrate. For guests, the convenience of the Radisson location is hard to beat. Located right on the riverbank, there are paths for walking, plus downtown Saskatoon has shopping, boutiques, restaurants and cafes. If guests don’t want to leave the hotel there’s still plenty for them to do with Aroma Resto Bar offering gourmet food by world renowned chefs like Scott Torgerson and amazing service. Booking far in advance will give you a better chance of getting the date you want, but Cisecki says they’re able to pull things together even in a short time frame. If you’re getting married on a tight timeline, you can always give the Hotel a call and they’ll be happy to help out. “We always say your guests are going to remember the food. And the party,” says Cisecki. Both will be quite memorable with the team at the Radisson. “We’re just trying to rethink things here and do things a little bit differently. And really take care of everyone’s details for them so we make the process less stressful, but still fun.”
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and
ONE ONLY! Brides-N-Belles creates a look of total bridal splendour for Danielle Booth with She Modelling. Danielle is breathtakingly beautiful in this exclusive fit and flare gown by Madison, fashioned from ivory alencon lace over light gold satin. Delicate hand-beading enhances the gown’s form-fitting bodice, which features a sweetheart neckline. A delicate feather and rhinestone flower belt by Bridal Classics adds an extra touch of elegance. The skirt flares out at the hip into triple tiers of luscious lace. Satin-covered buttons adorn the back of the gown, which also features a zip closure. Brides-N-Belles has everything this stylish bride needs, including her sparkling crystal headpiece, jewellery and fingertip-length veil by Bridal Classics and shoes by Benjamin Walk. Brides-N-Belles 714 Second Avenue N. www.bridesnbelles.ca Danielle’s bouquet designed by Barb Stefanyshyn-Cote, co-owner of Black Fox Farm and Distillery. This cheery nosegay of yellow blooms turns up the sunshine on your special day. www.blackfoxfarmanddistillery.com PHOTO BY ELAINE MARK, D&M IMAGES
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WINTER SALE January 9-31 UP TO
80 Graduation Dresses
%
OFF OF O FF F F
SELECTED STYLES ONLY Complete package bridal party available.
**Alterations Welcome!**
106A-1640 Idylwyld Dr. N
(Corner of 38th Street and Idylwyld Drive) Mon. 10-5:30
Tues.-Sat. 10-6
Ph:384-9977
Happy 21st Anniversary ary • Happy Hap 21st Anniversary • Happy 21st Anniversary • Happy 21st
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Looking to make your wedding an event people will talk about for years… let your food help with that statement.
Call D’reen and let her help you make that happen From the stagette, the wedding rehearsal, gift opening to the wedding dinner itself We can help you theme it, with appetizers, bbq. Country picnic, food truck style stations and various ethnic styles How about a poutine midnight lunch or a slider buffet or a carved charcuterie possibilities endless taste out of this world (306)934-0047 | dreen@dreens.com
Happy 21st Anniversary • Happy 21st Anniversary • Happy 21st Anniversary SAS00363302_1_1
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Farm
FReSh
Black Fox Farm & Distillery brings together unique colours and interesting textures in this fascinating succulent bouquet. Photo: Elaine Mark / D&M Images
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Local flowers a unique choice for weddings Ashleigh MAttern
W
hen choosing flowers for your wedding, you may think of traditional roses or carnations, but there is a cornucopia of local flowers available that you may have never considered. Black Fox Farm & Distillery has a flower farm on Valley Road five minutes out of Saskatoon that grows a surprisingly varied crop each year. Daisies, dahlias, lilies, poppies, purple queens, ocean pearls, gaillardias, Matthiolas, and much, much more. “We have an amazing array of flowers that you don’t see in traditional florist shops,” says Barb Stefanyshyn-Cote, who with husband John Cote owns Black Fox Farm & Distillery. “We have a very short but a very favourable growing zone and growing season.” Black Fox can provide such unique flowers in part because some of these blooms don’t ship well. Flowers grown elsewhere are bred to last up to a week without water as they’re transported from their original location to florist shops around the world, but locally-grown flowers don’t have those kinds of restrictions. Choosing local also encourages couples to get creative with their flower arrangements; Black Fox has made dried bouquets for winter weddings, and even a bouquet of succulents. “It’s very textured and it’s just a remarkable array of different flower shapes and petals,” says Stefanyshyn-Cote. Bouquets are always the star attraction when you’re talking wedding flowers – everyone’s eyes are on that beautiful bundle as the bride walks down the aisle – but there are so many more ways flowers can be used to brighten a celebration. W eDDINgS WONDeRFUL
aBOVE: Black Fox Farm & Distillery created this gorgeous gardenfresh bouquet for Saskatoon bride Jori Harrison. Photo: Tanya Plonka RIGHT: This everlasting dried bouquet by Black Fox Farm & Distillery is an ideal choice for a winter wedding. Photo: Elaine Mark / D&M Images
A recent trend Stefanyshyn-Cote has seen are body flowers: as bracelets or necklaces, woven into updos or tucked behind the ear. Flowers have become jewellery. And of course, there is the décor. From decorating the aisle, to the arch where the couple will stand, to centerpieces at the reception, flowers are a perfect way to make a space special. “Flowers bring to a room what nothing else can,” says Stefanyshyn-Cote. “They brighten a room; they make people smile. They’ll decorate the room with minimal effort, and they dress up an occasion.” For those with a do-it-yourself attitude, Black Fox allows you to pick your own flowers, and you can even make your own flower arrangements, though Stefanyshyn-Cote says it often comes down to the couple’s time and availability. “Sometimes they find it more of a stressful adventure than an enjoyable one. It’s balancing the time that it’s going to take. Many people underestimate how much time it takes to put together those remarkable bouquets.” Choosing the right flowers for your wedding has no minimum or maximum budget, says Stefanyshyn-Cote. Whether you want a cascading bouquet with a complicated arrangement of blooms and greenery, or a simple nosegay, or to hold a single flower, there is a solution that will fit your budget. c o n t i n u e d n e x t pag e
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FLOWER TIPS FROM BLACK FOX FARM • Start early. Florists get booked as quickly as venues. Order at least four weeks prior. • Consider all of your options for flowers. Local growers can offer you unique items. • Bring in photos that show the style, shape and look that you are after. • Be flexible in colour or shade. Flowers are a product of nature, after all. • Realize that mother nature does not produce teal or turquoise flowers naturally. • Recognize that there is a price difference between in-season flowers and must-haves. • Let flowers into every part of your special day, from hairpieces to cake décor, arches, and more.
Black Fox Farm & Distillery created a distinctive groom’s boutonniere from succulents for bride Kristen Cutting. Photo: Gina’s Portraits
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Each season brings
No matter what you choose, with it different though, beware the colour trap. “One of the issues florists are up flowers, and against is dealing with mother nachoosing the best for ture,” says Stefanyshyn-Cote. “You might find that perfect shade on that time of year Pinterest, but mother nature doesn’t will ensure you get always make that colour!” If you have your heart set on a particular colour, a gorgeous display. you may have to be flexible. The exact tone you want may not be available in flower form. Coming to a florist with your colour scheme in mind will help you choose the perfect petals. In fact, you may want to choose your flowers first, and then have the rest of the wedding’s colour scheme flow from those natural tones. The timing of your wedding also plays an important role in which flowers to choose. Each season brings with it different flowers, and choosing the best for that time of year will ensure you get a gorgeous display. In fact, if you get in touch with Black Fox Farm early enough, they can order, plant, and grow flowers specifically for This bouquet of blush and you. It doesn’t get more unique than that! white-toned gerbera daisies, roses, lilies and orchids is If you have more questions about just what a local flower a romantic choice for any farm can provide couples looking for a distinctive approach to wedding. Photo: Elaine Mark / wedding flowers, Black Fox Farm & Distillery will be at the D&M Images Bridal Spectacular wedding show on January 15 at TCU Place. pag e 14
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T
beautiful
NOW EVERY BRIDE CAN FEEL
ON HER SPECIAL DAY!
Kimberley and Kayla Camboia have revolutionized the gown shopping experience by opening W Bridals – Curvy Couture, Canada’s first dedicated plus-size bridal boutique, located in downtown Saskatoon.
A customer entering W Bridals – Curvy Couture in downtown Saskatoon might think she’s just another plus-size shopper. She’ll leave with a new attitude. Inside, she is about to meet an enthusiastic cheering section – the talented Camboia sisters, Kimberley and Kayla, and mother Eddie – and gain access to some of the most beautiful designer wedding gowns she can imagine. Owners Kimberley and Kayla blazed a trail with Canada’s first dedicated plus-size bridal boutique. After years in bridal consulting, they knew an entire demographic was under-served. Until she found W Bridals, Melissa Anaetoh was frustrated. “As a plussize girl, I got the same thing in every bridal shop. Basically, I was led to a cart in the back with a few dresses that might be my size. That’s the experience you have as a plus-size woman,” she says. A short engagement meant she was buying off the rack rather than ordering a custom dress. Dissatisfied, Anaetoh searched Google for an alternative. When she discovered W Bridals, her chances of looking spectacular on her special day looked good. At an after-hours appointment, Anaetoh found the elegant boutique filled with dresses for her. “They said, ‘We don’t really go by sizes here,’ and that really blew my mind.” Rather than sort by size, W Bridals presents dresses in categories: Timeless, Vivacious, Sassy, Fabulous, Unique, Ravishing and Glamorous. Anaetoh bought her dress that same day.
JESSE GREEN | PHOTO BY APPL PHOTO
The Camboias encourage their customers to learn to like what they see in the mirror. “We’re climbing the emotional hill of acceptance and feeling beautiful at any size, any complexion. To see someone come in feeling timid, and to watch them become sassy and beautiful, elegant and classy – you just get chills,” says Kimberley. It is the feeling of celebration that Sarah Nordin remembers about her shopping experience. At one boutique she visited, the consultant simply passed along every dress that Nordin’s excited family brought over. She tried on about 20, many in styles she had already ruled out. “It really brought everyone’s energy down trying on so many of the same things.” The experience at W Bridals was more successful. “They made every element of it fun,” Nordin says. The Camboias hoped to sell 40 dresses in their first year, to keep the lights on and the lease paid. “We sold 143 dresses, and about 15 of those went in the first three weeks,” says Kimberley. In addition, the Camboias clinched the New Business Venture award at the Saskatoon Achievement in Business Excellence Awards (SABEX) after only four months in business. The Camboias are active fundraisers. Kimberley’s six-year-old daughter was born with cystic fibrosis. Kimberley is deeply involved with the North Saskatchewan chapter of Cystic Fibrosis Canada, including running her trademark ‘Tarts for a Cure,’ which is pure Camboia: it started when Eddie and Kimberley wondered, ‘Do you think anyone would pay for these?’ and has grown into a $20,000 fundraiser each year. W Bridals – Curvy Couture represents the Camboia family’s desire to make their customers feel beautiful on one of the most important days of their lives. Wbridals.ca.
THIS STORY WAS PROVIDED BY W BRIDALS – CURVY COUTURE FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES. SAS00363386_1_1
dance?
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN HILARY KLASSEN
To make your ‘fi rst dance’ together as husband-and-wife truly memorable, a basic dance class is a great idea. Veteran dance instructor Ruby Kullman says her 12-week dance class not only prepares brides and grooms for their spotlight moment on the dance floor, it helps strengthen the couple’s relationship. Photos: Getty Images PAG E 16
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S
o you think you can dance? Great! Let’s see what you’ve got. For your wedding dance, it’s advisable to know what you’ve got. This is different than busting a move for 10 seconds and then disappearing into the sidelines, a wallflower at your own nuptials. At your wedding, you want to flash a bit of polish, some finesse, display some savvy and add some pizzazz to the occasion. Developing or increasing your dance skills is never going to be a bad idea. Not only will your wedding night be more enjoyable if you know what you’re doing, your memories and the lasting images of your wedding will tell the greater story, of you owning the dance floor. There are classes for this, of course – like the lessons offered by the Karousels Dance Club at the Albert Community Centre. Veteran dance instructor Ruby Kullman will ease you in gently. Kullman teaches international ballroom dance and brings a vast wealth of experience. She has taught in many countries of the world, done extensive choreography and planned international dance conventions. Her infectious love of dance is inspiring to her students. “Dancing has been a lifetime passion and I still enjoy it so much!” she says. The beginner level class runs for 12 weeks and starts with basics like the waltz and the two-step, the two most important dances to begin with, according to Kullman. “These two dances give me the two different media that I can follow in other rhythms as well.” That’s the focus for the first four to five weeks. Then Kullman adds a bit of fox trot and rhumba, and then probably a schottische or a polka, dances students can do with very little instruction and have some fun with it. “My basic classes are mainly to teach people to dance with the music, how to hold their partners and how to be comfortable dancing,” says Kullman. Kullman gets creative with students who want to learn to dance for their wedding. For some previous students she prepared little routines for them and gave it to them in writing. This included maybe four to six basic routines they could memorize to dance at their wedding. With one gentleman, she did private lessons so he could surprise his future bride at their wedding. His fiancé had a strong dance background and he had none. “She didn’t think he could dance a step, but he did very well, and definitely surprised her.” W EDDINGS WONDERFUL
Kullman will do private consultations with young couples who need some direction. “One couple wanted to do a special dance at their wedding, so they picked, ‘Could I Have This Dance,’ which is a nice waltz,” she said. “But the choreography I have for that is much too advanced for them, so I wrote them a dance. I went to meet with them and we had a little practice. They taped it all and they were able to practice, and they did it on their own at their wedding.” In one situation, a man wanted to come to dance class, but didn’t have a partner. Typically, these students just see who shows up, and usually they have someone to dance with. But this gentleman wanted to be sure he had a partner. So Kullman did something she typically does not do. She said, “Okay, the next person who phones me and says they need a partner, I’ll let you know.” A lady phoned and said she didn’t want to come unless she had a partner. Kullman said, ‘Well, I have a partner for you.’ “In this case it worked very well. Having started the class in January, by February they were
sitting holding hands between dances and they were married by June. They’d never met each other before!” Kullman says dancing together as a couple can strengthen your relationship. This is true for young couples and those who have been together for many years. It can offer lifetime benefits such as building connection, confidence, teamwork, intimacy and social connection, not to mention, it’s simply a fun thing to do together. Co-ed ballroom dance classes with the Karousels Dance Club and Ruby Kullman take place in the ballroom at the Albert Community Centre, where hardwood floors, mirrors and a generous space provide an ideal environment. After 12 weeks of lessons, all classes enjoy a wind-up dance party to show off and celebrate their new skills. The basic class runs from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Classes at the next level run from 8:30 to 10:00 p.m. and will venture into jive, cha cha and possibly even some tango. For details about the next session of dance classes, contact Ruby Kullman at (306) 290-5486 or email interlock@sasktel.net.
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Wedding cakes WITH JENNIFER JACOBY-SMITH
WOW: Sliced
Decadence
Recently, local cake maker, Sherry Sawatzky, had her cakes recognized by Wedding Bells’ annual list of Canada’s prettiest cakes. This delectable cake features a silky vanilla cake along with Saskatoon berries and a cream cheese frosting. Photos: Juli Lebrecque Photography
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Beautiful and simple, Sherry Sawatzky’s all-natural wedding cakes use a Swiss buttercream frosting instead of fondant.
A
truly spectacular celebration calls for a truly spectacular cake. That’s what local baker Sherry Sawatzky wants to deliver with each of her wedding cakes, but hers are a little different than most. While many wedding cakes employ a fondant icing for an extra smooth look, Sawatzky doesn’t work with fondant. “I’ve always done just buttercream icing. It’s an all-natural business. I’ve never worked with fondant or artificial colours,” she explains. Sawatzky worked in the catering business for years when she decided to make her own wedding cake. After making a cake for her friend’s wedding, she realized she had a real passion for the business. She’s been making cakes for Saskatoon couples for over nine years, as the founder of Sliced Decadence. Recently, Sawatzky was recognized by Wedding Bells Canada in their annual list of Canada’s prettiest cakes – the only one from Saskatchewan. “It’s very nice to be recognized for my work. Especially because it’s a beautiful simple cake.” She admits the look of wedding cakes is changing. For many years, couples wanted the icing surface to be as perfectly smooth as possible, but now they’re wanting something unique and textured. “I’m doing lots of textures on the buttercream – stripes all the way around or rosettes are very popular right now,” she notes. There are several advantages to opting for a cake with a buttercream frosting instead of a fondant covering. One is the reduced cost. Fondant takes a lot of time to get just right. It can be very labour intensive, making the cake more expensive. Buttercream icing can be time consuming when it’s piped or for really intricate designs, but for the most part it’s not quite as time consuming. Of course, the best part of a buttercream-frosted cake is the taste. “I do a Swiss buttercream, so it’s more silky and not very sweet. The process is a five-step process so it’s not your typical butter and icing sugar. As soon as they taste my stuff, they book me,” Sawatzky says. She has several tips for couples before they book a wedding cake. First, she suggests look-
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ing at lots of pictures of wedding cakes to have an idea of what you’re looking for. It’s good to know the theme of the wedding and how many people the cake will feed, as well as any dietary restrictions. Sawatzky usually does cupcakes on the side for the gluten-free guests. There are also dairyfree options available as well. She says she did a lot of experimentation to get the taste and texture of her gluten-free and dairy-free cakes “perfect”. Next, comes the tasting. This it the fun part – choosing what flavours a couple wants for the wedding cake. Many opt for a different flavour for each layer, but there are no set rules when it comes to combinations. Her most popular cake remains her Saskatoon berry cream cake – a vanilla cake filled with Saskatoon berries and smothered with a cream cheese frosting. Other favourites are cinw i nt e r 2 017 e d it ion
namon bun swirl with maple cinnamon swirl and pecans with a cream cheese frosting, and turtle brownie decadence – a chocolate cake with a pecan brownie centre and hint of caramel between the layers. There are many other flavours for couples to choose from to fit the bride and groom’s theme or fancy – lemon poppy seed, mocha mouse chocolate coconut, pumpkin gingerbread and more. While she knows most people are focused on the aesthetics of the wedding cake, she wants to make sure that every bite for every guest is absolutely delicious. “You’re spending a lot of money for just looks, whereas with my cakes they’re so yummy,” Sawatzky says. “Every bride that emails me says, the cake was gone.” You can visit www.sliceddecadence.com for more information. PAG E 19
Beachfront wedding The
HILARY KLASSEN
ANd BEyoNd E
xchanging vows with your toes in the sand at an exotic destination represents the ultimate in romance. With the waves lapping beside you, the golden sun warming your soul and your closest family and friends around you, a beachfront wedding is the fulfillment of dreams. Saying “I do” on the beach has become increasingly popular in the last five years for a number of compelling reasons, according to Barb Crowe, president of Ixtapa Travel in Saskatoon. It’s attractive because it may well fit the budget better, planning is easier and everything is in one place. Crowe calls herself a ‘dream-maker’ and has been helping travelers with their wedding, honeymoon, multi-generational family vacation plans and other adventures for 35 years. “I love making dreams come true in all aspects of travel.” About 90 per cent of couples who come to Ixtapa for a destination wedding choose a beachfront ceremony and most of those request a sunset event. “Beach weddings tend to be more casual compared to the extravagance of some traditional ‘at home’ weddings,” says Crowe. “Guests can kick off their shoes and walk in the comfort of the sand.” Not only that, a destination wedding is not just a day, it typically lasts seven days, on average. Couples who choose a destination wedding seek that scenic beauty and sense of romance over a traditional church and hall wedding. For some, the opportunity to spend more time with family and friends in a warm
Beachfront weddings offer a casual and stressfree alternative to traditional weddings, and have become an increasingly desirable option for many brides and grooms. Photos: Ixtapa Travel
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Beach weddings tend to be more casual compared to the extravagance of some traditional ‘at home’ weddings. Guests can kick of their shoes and walk in the comfort of the sand. bARb CROWE, PRESIDENT, IxTAPA TRAVEl SASkATOON
destination is a very big factor as well, and the costs can be significantly lower. Crowe says that the most difficult decision in planning a destination wedding is choosing the destination and choosing the resort. “After that, it is pretty much stress free!” For a destination wedding in general, most brides and grooms want the experience to be economically-friendly for their guests. That means choosing a destination on a flight that is direct from Saskatoon. Some popular choices are Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Cuba. A few brides and grooms do want that magical wedding in Tuscany, Italy or a castle in Ireland or the glam of Vegas. Others seek something more unique or adventurous. “As with any client looking for that ‘little something different,’ we can build a destination package to suit the interest of the clients. The couple should be aware that wedding guests need to be considered when choosing destination and
activities. ‘Uncle Mike and Grandma’ may not be interested in spending time in the mountains of Peru!” Crowe says a good option is to do the traditional wedding for one week, followed by a more experiential week for guests to share that experience with the bride and groom if they choose, or for the couple to enjoy on their own. Many of the details of a destination wedding are similar to the traditional wedding. The bride and groom and the resort wedding coordinator work together to make sure these details – like flowers, colours, etc. - are covered. “The nice thing is, the Wedding Coordinator does all the running around to pull it off, so the couple should be totally comfortable in what they want when working with Ixtapa and the hotels,” said Crowe. Young couples concerned about the Zika virus, especially those planning to have children, should be aware that the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the end of the
Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) with respect to the virus on November 18. However, the WHO also stated the Zika virus remains a significant public health challenge. “While the incidences of the Zika virus continue to decline, we would advise all clients to be aware of the threat of the disease and the precautions that should be taken to avoid the virus. This information would be best available through the family doctor or more generally through the Canadian government website, travel.gc.ca,” says Crowe. Wedding specialists at Ixtapa Travel are truly passionate about what they do, Crowe adds. They tend to all the details and ensure couples get full support from the resort wedding coordinators at various destinations. Ixtapa takes pride in the valuable relationships they have established with tour operators and resort and wedding coordinators over time. “We offer the best prices, best destinations and the best advice for the bride and groom,” she says. “Having a wedding specialist plan your destination wedding and travel arrangements for your friends and family makes it so simple. Our specialists do that. They care, and they are there every step of the way.”
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 SAS00364557_1_1
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Weddings
WANUSKEWIN a celebration of culture and nature
JENN SMITH NELSON
Wanuskewin’s winter wonderland creates unique wedding photo opportunities. Photos: Wanuskewin Heritage Park
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nce a hidden gem, Wanuskewin Heritage Park, a historical centre and important archaeological site, has become a sought after wedding location. Situated above Opimihaw Creek near the west bank of the South Saskatchewan River, the park is mere minutes from the city of Saskatoon. According to its website, “Wanuskewin is a living reminder of our sacred relationship with
the land and the First Nations people.” It’s also a must-consider location for those looking to incorporate non-traditional or unique elements such as closeness to nature and the infusion of culture into their ceremonies. Though Wanuskewin centres on First Nations customs, cultures and heritage, it really is a place for everyone, offering rich and serene surroundings where a sense of connectedness is
prevalent. “Wanuskewin means different things to different people,” says sales and marketing manager Andrew McDonald. “The long history of the valley being a gathering place for over 6,000 years still rings true.” Today, the park continues to exist as a meeting place. As formal ideas for wedding ceremonies continue to evolve, people today want more than a location – they want something “that means something to them, or represents their passions,” McDonald says. Whether it is celebrating personal heritage, a connection to the outdoors or a desire for a unique facility or a stunning valley backdrop, the park has mass appeal for those tying the knot. “The park welcomes all people from around the world. I think that that is the feeling people get when they come here as well,” says McDonald.
Couples who book their wedding at Wanuskewin Heritage Park can enjoy full access to the park’s diverse facilities, from spacious common areas inside the interpretive centre to the outdoor amphitheatre.
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Whether it is celebrating personal heritage, a connection to the outdoors or a desire for a unique facility or a stunning valley backdrop, the park has mass appeal for those tying the knot.
The stunning outdoor landscapes of Wanuskewin Heritage Park are an ideal setting for a wedding ceremony.
So what are the options when it comes to booking the park for a ceremony? There aren’t actual designated ceremonial areas. What this means is that the entire historic park complete with the facility, art galleries and large common areas can all be rented, and couples can determine what works best for them. “When people come for weddings at the park, they are able to use the entire space,” shares McDonald. “So guests have the opportunity to visit the art galleries, make purchases at our gift shop, view historic exhibits, and cruise through the six kilometers of trails in the Opimihaw Valley.” Ceremonies can be held in convention rooms, an outside amphitheater, alongside the valley’s edge, as well as down inside the valley itself. The most popular spot however on this list is the amphitheater, thanks to wonderful acoustics and the ability to accommodate up to 250 people. A great addition to selecting this space and circle areas within the park, is to hold receptions (and dances). There is also the option to hire local pow wow dancers to perform. “It’s an even split,” says McDonald when it comes to whether couples get married inside or out, stating that some even choose to hold their ceremony outside during the winter months. McDonald shares that the ability to be surrounded by such natural beauty really enhances the experience. It also makes easy work for wedding photographers who love shooting in and around the park, either in the valley or on the edge of the large ridge overlooking the South Saskatchewan River. One thing to note is though Wanuskewin offers catering for weddings with a number of traditional ingredients served in a contemporary style (i.e.: bison buffet, saskatoon berry tarts, raspberry and thyme Italian
sodas), alcohol isn’t permitted on site. As a result, McDonald says some couples opt to hold the ceremony onsite and the reception and dance elsewhere. “As a multi-cultural facility, we want to ensure we welcome everyone,” stresses McDonald. “It’s for that reason, outside catering is also available, so that clients may carry forward their own cultural traditions,” noting food as a very important part of culture. If the beauty, richness and unique offerings of the park aren’t quite enough to convince you, consider the ability to say: “We were married on a future UNESCO site!”
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