SP Weddings Wonderful

WEDDINGS W i n t e r2017 2018 Winter

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WEDDINGS

DELUXE BRIDAL PACKAGES

Winter 2018

DELTA BESSBOROUGH

ONE NIGHT STAY IN VICE REGAL SUITE INCLUDES ACCESS TO LOUNGE COMPLIMENTARY BREAKFAST AND HOR D’OEUVRES IN THE EVENING - $1,000 VALUE

CONTENTS

TCU PLACE

BOOK A WEDDING FOR 2017-18 & RECEIVE COMPLIMENTARY ROOM RENTAL, INCLUDES A LIGHTING DECOR PKG - UP TO $750 VALUE

your day, your way! bridal spectacular ..................................4

HANDY SPECIAL EVENTS

$1000 GIFT CERTIFICATE

Picture perfect..........................................7

STAHLI & JOEJIO PHOTOGRAPHY

$600 DISCOUNT ON ANY WEDDING PKG

bride’s beauty countdown.................8

BRIDES N BELLES

$500 TOWARDS PURCHASE OF A WEDDING GOWN (NO CASH VALUE)

Planning the Pinterest-perfect wedding .......................................................10

EXPOSURE PHOTOGRAPHY

$500 DISCOUNT ON ANY WEDDING PKG

Pre-marital counselling ........................12

SUPREME DJS

$250 GIFT CERTIFICATE

Wedding entertainment .....................14

BODACIOUS BUSTLINES $250 GIFT CERTIFICATE

EDITOR

Jeannie armstrong WRITERS

JenniFer JaCoby-smitH Hilary Klassen ryan Hall Jesse green

JANUARY 14TH 12:30 - 5:00 PM TCU PLACE

ART DESIGN

lesley CoCKbUrn ABOUT THIS CONTENT: THIS SECTION WAS CREATED BY CONTENT WORKS, POSTMEDIA’S COMMERCIAL CONTENT STUDIO. TO ADVERTISE IN THE JANUARY 2019 EDITION OF WEDDINGS WONDERFUL, CONTACT STARPHOENIX MEDIA SALES MANAGER SHAWN CORNELL AT (306) 657-6206.

Modelling Agency (306) 652-7484

bridalspectacular.ca shemodelling.com shemodelling ing.com

$15 ADMISSION AT THE DOOR

ENTERTAINMENT BY: HYPNOTIST-CORRI J PHOTO BY: STAHLI & JOEJIO PHOTOGRAPHY GARMENT BY: BRIDES N BELLES

PARTICIPATING MERCHANTS ALMOST HEAVEN ARBONNE ARMED WITH HARMONY BATH FITTER BODACIOUS BUSTLINES BORYSKI’S BUTCHER BLOCK BRIDES N BELLES BRIDGES MORTGAGE SERVICES CAKE HAIR DESIGN CANDLE LAKE GOLF RESORT DANCELAND DJS DAVID‘S DISTINCTIVE MEN’S APPAREL DE’ AMORE BOUTIQUE DELTA BESSBOROUGH EPH APPAREL ELITE DJS ELK RIDGE RESORT EXPOSURE PHOTOGRAPHY EXQUISITE FASHIONS & BRIDAL FREEZE FRAMEZ PHOTOBOOTH GERMAN CULTURAL CENTRE HANDY SPECIAL EVENTS HILTON HOME OUTFITTERS HUDSON’S BAY HYPNOTIST CORRIJ JAMES HOTEL KITCHEN CHARM LCD PRODUCTIONS LIPSENCE LOUIS’ MARLIN TRAVEL MARY KAY MOMS CATERING PARK LANE JEWELRY OLIVER AND BONACINI HOSPITALITY PARKTOWN PICK NIC’ S RNC IMAGERY RAMADA HOTEL SILVER LINING SPA STAHLI & JOEJIO PHOTOGRAPHY SASKATOON GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB SUNLIFE FINANCIAL SUPREME DJ ENTERTAINMENT/MOBILE MONKEY DJ TCU PLACE TUX & TAILS THE WILLOWS THIRTY ONE GIFTS TUPPERWARE U OF S MARQUIS HALL EVENTS CENTRE UNIGLOBE UNIVERSITY CLUB VALENTUS W BRIDALS WC FOOD SERVICES WEDDING ESCAPES WOLF WILLOW WINERY 9 MILE LEGACY BREWING

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Your DaY your way Get inspired at Bridal spectacular 2018

A visit to Bridal Spectacular is an exciting way to personalize your wedding. Bridal Spectacular is the province’s largest and most established wedding show, taking place Sunday, January 14 at TCU Place. Getty Images

by Jeannie armstrong

A

ccording to the 2017 Weddings Report by Pinterest, the new direction for weddings is all about personalization. “Brides want to do 4

Weddings Wonderful | Winter 2018

their big day, their way,” states the Pinterest wedding trends report.

“It’s all about personalization and having fun, from printed bridesmaid dresses in lieu of mismatched solids, to the taco bar riff on family-style

buffets.”

One of the best ways to begin planning your one-of-a-kind wedding is by attending the 2018 Bridal Spectacular, Saskatchewan’s premier wedding expo, taking place Sunday, January 14 from 12:30 to 5:00 p.m. at TCU Place.

For approximately three decades, Mary Obrodovich has put the “spectacular” into Bridal Spectacular, the city’s largest and most established wedding trade show. The owner of She Modelling, Obrodovich works year-round to ensure brides attending her semi-annual wedding shows have an amazing experience.

At Bridal Spectacular, brides and grooms can explore the latest and greatest wedding items and services from a diverse range of local businesses. “We will have 60 to 70 different exhibitors at Bridal Spectacular.

Every business has something new and exciting to offer,” says Obrodovich.

At Bridal Spectacular, couples can plan every aspect of their wedding, in one convenient location. Exhibitors include bridal fashion retailers, photographers, caterers, wedding venues, music providers, special event rental companies, limousine services, hair and make-up artists, travel agencies, home décor items and more! A complete list of participating exhibitors is featured on page

3 of Weddings Wonderful.

The range of exhibitors isn’t limited in any way at Bridal Spectacular, says Obrodovich. “There are many opportunities to compare different venues, services and products, to see which companies are just right for your wedding. It’s the only show in Saskatoon that has so many companies to choose from. We don’t limit our exhibitors to one-of-a-kind, because we want brides and grooms to be able to make comparisons and see who will best meet their needs.”

Many of these companies have been with Bridal Spectacular throughout the show’s long history, says Obrodovich. “Couples can be confident in dealing with these tried-and-true businesses. They are well established on the Saskatoon wedding scene and their expertise in wedding planning

is invaluable.”

Selecting a wedding gown is one of the first and most exciting decisions made by the bride. At Bridal Spectacular, guests can explore the latest trends in wedding finery for 2018 from top local retailers including Brides-n-Belles, Exquisite Fashions & Bridal, W Bridals Curvy Couture, Tux & Tails and D’Amore Boutique.

The highlight of every Bridal Spectacular is the runway fashion show, featuring professional models from She Modelling. “Everybody loves to see the fashions! We will have 25 models wearing 50 different gowns from Brides-n-Belles. Our male models will show off new trends in formalwear from Tux & Tails. It’s definitely the largest bridal fashion show in the province,” says Obrodovich.

As a prelude to the fashion show,

Looking to make your wedding an event people will talk about for years…

the audience will be entertained by the mesmerizing antics of hypnotist Corrie J. He’s described by Obrodovich as “a real crowd pleaser.”

Another reason to attend Bridal Spectacular is the opportunity to win exciting prizes. Each exhibitor at the show will have draws for their wedding services and products.

All brides in attendance will also be entered to win a deluxe prize package from Bridal Spectacular, valued at thousands of dollars.

Admission to Bridal Spectacular is just $15 per person; tickets are available at the door.

The doors to TCU Place open at 12:30 p.m.

For more information, check out Bridal Spectacular’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bridalspectacularsk.

Ditch The Boring Bachelore�e For A Beach Bash!

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

Imagine a vaca�on with your bes�es featuring: • •

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

• • • • • • •

Welcome bo�le of sparkling wine Spa day – inclusive of mani/pedi, 25 minute massage and access to the spa’s hydrotherapy and relaxa�on areas Late night in room party – tapas, desserts & sparkling wine will be delivered to the room (one night of stay) Group photo shoot – each person will receive a printed copy of the group’s selected photo (addi�onal photos will be available for purchase) Fes�ve Bachelore�e Door Banner on the bride-to-be’s door Reserved table and bo�le service at resorts nightclub (one night of stay) Group dinner arranged at choice of restaurants (reserved table one night of stay) Reserved spot on the beach or pool, varies by rseort (chairs and palapas with other extras, reserva�on must be made with the concierge) Breathless Bachelore�e Scavenger Hunt

Call our specialists today at 306-242-TRIP *Condi�ons apply. Offer based on Breathless Resorts Party Packages and is subject to change. Photos courtesy of Breathless Resorts

Circle Drive 306-934-3400 Sutherland 306-955-1449

www.uniglobecarefreetravel.com SAS00385738_1_1

Weddings Wonderful | Winter 2018

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5

PiCture perfect

Go with a pro for your weddinG

W

by ryan Hall

eddings are a wonderful, magical experience shared with family, friends, and loved ones. The memories created can last a lifetime, and remembering them years later can bring back the warmth felt on that special day. Finding the right photographer is an important part of planning, as they do far more than simply take pictures; they preserve memories. When it comes to selecting a wedding photographer, experience matters, which is why there’s no better choice than going with a pro.

There are several benefits to hiring a professional photographer, beginning with the wealth of knowledge they 6

Weddings Wonderful | Winter 2018

bring to your special day. For many couples, their wedding is the first time they have posed together for professional photos, which can be overwhelming. A professional can ‘read a couple’ and help them get comfortable, and relaxed, as quickly as possible.

“Most couples need some guidance and prompts to look ‘natural’ even though they are posed,” says Elaine Mark, with D&M Images. “Part of that process is breaking the ice and helping them feel at ease, as you need to be relaxed in order to take good photos.”

Another way that professional photographers can capture the perfect images is by building rapport with clients before the wedding itself. “We like

to use an engagement session as a ‘get to know you’ experience, since it allows all of us to go into the wedding with some familiarity and an idea of what to expect,” says Mark.

This can be even more important if unexpected snags arise on the day of the wedding itself, as a professional can help keep the momentum going without getting flustered and stressing out the couple in the process.

Experienced photographers have been to nearly every church and venue in the city and surrounding areas, and can suggest spots that couples may not even know exist. Having access to this wealth of information and advice can make a world of difference, and help

smooth over any hiccups.

This can extend beyond finding spots outside to take photos, as select professionals also maintain their own studios. This can be a day saver if the temperamental Saskatchewan weather refuses to cooperate. Most often, it’s the prairie wind that poses that greatest obstacle, and having a calm, warm place on standby is an important part of any wedding plan. Even if the new couple themselves are willing to put up with a little weather during the photo shoot, there are often other people involved that might not do so well in the elements. “Many times there are little kids and grandparents in wedding photos, and it’s nice to know they can be comfortable and have a good experience as well, if the need arises,” says Mark.

When you hire a professional photographer you often get more than just a single person. Many of them employ assistants and/or second shooters who can prove invaluable to the experience.

Whether it is helping to fix a dress, gathering the next group together, or even entertaining kids, these individuals help to diffuse stress and keep the day moving along. A second shooter also provides another set of eyes on the wedding, which can mean photos from different angles, overviews and candid moments between the couple and bridal party that might otherwise have been missed.

With all of this in mind, it can seem

Elaine and Phillip Mark of D&M Images bring extensive experience and creativity to wedding photography. D&M Images

like a daunting task to choose the photographer that is right for your special day. There are some important questions that can aid in your decision.

To begin with, make sure to ask how much experience a photographer has with weddings, as shooting one is far different than taking pictures of sunsets and nature. “A professional photographer will have tens or even hundreds of weddings under their belts, and will know how to plan with you for your requests,” says Mark. “You don’t want to risk your one-day, onetime special event with someone who isn’t experienced.”

Another important consideration is the type of equipment they will be using including the number of cameras, and whether they shoot raw files that will be edited and retouched as

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needed. A good guideline is to ensure that the final images you receive will be to the same standard of work as the samples that first tweaked your interest.

Expectations such as this should also be clearly laid out in the contract, including the package pricing, time frame they will be contracted for, and how long after the wedding you will receive your pictures. Additionally, liability clauses should clearly state what happens if anything does not go according to the agreed upon terms.

“Any professional photographer should be eager to back their work fully,” says Mark. “It is their reputation on the line so they have a vested interest in making sure you are completely happy, and would recommend them in the future.”

To learn more about D&M Images, visit www.dmimages.ca or call 306664-1172.

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7

Bride’s beauty

countdown

The team at Merle Norman can custom create a beauty plan that will have you looking your best on your big day. Elaine Mark

G

by JenniFer JaCoby-smitH

reat skin – like everything else on your wedding day – takes planning. Paulette Schumacher and her team at Merle Norman in the Scotia Centre Mall takes the stress out of skin care and beauty treatments.

“Planning your wedding can be stressful and many skin problems are related to stress,” says Schumacher.

“Organizing a skin care regiment will take the stress away ahead of time. And trying things ahead of time can eliminate any reactions you may have before the big day.”

“If you’ve never had facials before or tried a specific line of make up or doing things like exfoliation, all those things can make a difference” and trigger a reaction. After all, the last thing you want the week of your wedding is to have a reaction to a new product or treatment.

For those people who are prone to 8

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acne getting your skin care regime in place earlier can help minimize breakouts before the big day. Schumacher cautions that it is impossible to eliminate all breakouts, but being in a consistent skin care program can make acne much less likely. six to nine months in advance The date has been picked, the located nailed down, it’s time to have your first consultation with your skin care team. Visit Merle Norman to customize a beauty regime just for you.

“The sooner you do it the better,” says Schumacher.

Your beauty regime should include professional deep cleansing facial to help get skin problems, such as acne or blackheads under control. Continue with a facial every two months.

Also being in the sun can cause skin damage so discuss how to repair and

prevent further damage.

“We would also customize an exfoliation plan for each client. Exfoliation is so important on your wedding. It’s the exfoliation that will make your skin look flawless and smooth,” says Schumacher. There are many different methods to exfoliate, such as an alpha hydroxyl acid product, glycolic peel, a scrub or microdermabrasion.

“We also have exfoliators for sensitive skin,” she adds. “Any exfoliators we do have at-home versions as well.”

Discuss with your consultant whether retinol is right for you. Schumacher explains, retinol increases cell turnover, unclogs pores, boosts collagen and helps diminish hyperpigmentation.

Six to nine months before your wedding is a good time to think about other parts of your body as well.

“It’s not just about the face, it’s about the whole body,” she notes. “Especially

the hands, because there will be a lot of photos taken of your hands.”

Using a good body scrub and hydrating crème regularly will keep the skin looking fresh. On your hands you could add in cuticle oils and a good hand crèmes, one that includes sun protection for instance.

three to six months in advance This is a good time to book a consultant to discuss your brow shape. Have brows professionally shaped and coloured, if needed.

two months in advance You may wish to add some colour to skin. Schumacher recommends a self-tanner as a safe and effective way to give your skin a healthy bronze glow.

The key is to remember to use a good body scrub before applying the tanner, so the colour goes on evenly and

smoothly. Dry patches of skin will grab more of the colour and lead to an uneven “tan”.

will remove dead skin cells and brighten your skin. This is also a good time to have your brows reshaped, if needed.

one month in advance

the week of the weddinG

This is the time to book a professional facial.

“When your skin is probed and prodded, you can have a little bit of a breakout. You want that to settle down before the wedding so your skin is already clear. We recommend you do that about four weeks in advance,” says Schumacher.

Visit the salon for a professional make-up application trial to choose the look you want. “It takes the stress out of the day of the wedding. You already will know the look you want and what you like,” she says.

The final crunch time is here! Now is a good time to get your waxing done: legs, underarms, bikini area.

Plan to have your pedicure and manicure professionally done this week as well. This is a great time to grab your maid of honour or bridesmaid and have some fun. Remember to use a shellac curable polish applied. It will last longer than a regular polish.

two weeks in advance A glycolic peel can be a good idea. It

on the BiG day First don’t skip your regular skin care routine. And have your make-up professionally applied. Your skin will be flawless and camera-ready! Now go savour every special moment of your special day!

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 100 guests in a comfortable setting. A modern kitchen provides everything for your own catering needs.

For information, pricing or to view our facilities visit standrews.ca or contact Carolina at (306) 966-8969 Weddings Wonderful | Winter 2018

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The team at Merle Norman can custom create a beauty plan that will have you looking you your big day. Elaine Mark

Pinterest-perfect wedding P HoW to PLan tHe

by Jesse green

interest, the virtual corkboard for saving ideas, is a fabulous way to find inspiration. Whether you’re planning a wedding, getting a pet hedgehog or making glitter slime – Pinterest has a gazillion tutorials, images and ideas. And, sadly, that’s what makes it so easy to get pin-happy, off track and lost in the app!

Is it possible to pin your way to the perfect wedding? According to Diana Pereira at Handy Special Events – absolutely. “The trick to Pinterest is you need to stay organized,” said Pereiera, chief operating officer and event specialist. Do not create one board called “wedding” and save everything from garter belts to centrepieces to vow ideas. Instead, take time to create individual boards by topic, go through and edit these boards and move things around. “You really have to curate your ideas to make it work,” said Pereira.

One final warning about the world of Pins. “You have to know the limitations of Pinterest, too. A lot of it is historical, so you’re maybe loving something from six years ago that is no longer on the market,” said Jennifer Draper, certified wedding planner and event coordinator with Handy Special Events. Or, you have found an image with an outdated link and no way to track down the original source.

So you can, and should, use Pinterest to find ideas that make your eyes light up. As long as you are saving to the right board, you will remember why you liked it enough to click ‘Pin It.’ And, don’t be afraid to use other platforms like Instagram which tend to be on trend and forward-looking.

Whatever it is that makes your heart flutter, chances are Handy Special 10

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Look to Handy Special Events to source the trendy wedding items you’ve pinned on Pinterest. Handy’s 7,000 square foot show room offers wall-to-wall inspiration for your wedding. Handy Special Events

Events can make it happen. Their 7,000 square foot show room (about the size of 1.5 NBA Basketball courts) is set to inspire. With ever-changing displays, there are examples of so many different layouts and styles for seating, not only for weddings but for corporate events, dinner parties and any other kind of gathering you can dream up. You’ll find things like ‘rose gold three ways,’ where a group of tables and chairs are dressed in the same colour theme but with different styles. Their selection room has different table shapes and swatches of so many different fabrics in everything from sparkle to sheer to velvet. Customers can spend time doing table mock-ups and settings to find a perfect look.

On trend in weddings is the colour blush, wooden crossback chairs and the “micro” wedding. Trending on both

coasts in the US and making its way to Saskatchewan, the micro wedding is basically a dinner party meets wedding; an intimate affair that is small in numbers but grand in style.

Couples planning a wedding can engage a Handy Special Events consultant to help plan and execute each and every detail, from dreaming up the concepts to setting up and tearing down table settings, building a dance floor on the back forty and looking after the bouquet. The happy couple can visit the show room and check in with their consultant as many – or as few – times as they like.

Every wedding is different, but Draper says one year in advance is a good timeline for getting started. Customers are encouraged to think about what things they can’t live without and get them secured early. Less important details can wait. But, if you absolutely must have an item like the wooden crossback chairs, then get that order in as soon as possible.

Handy Special Events began as a simple rental business and has grown into leader in the Saskatchewan events scene.

Known for both its extensive line of rental items and talented staff, Handy stays in touch with industry colleagues in trending coastal US cities and attending innovative trade shows.

Find the Handy Special Events showroom and their expert event specialists at 2624 Millar Avenue or see them online

www.candlelakegolfresort.com

Candle Lake Golf Resort

is currently taking reservations for weddings in 2018 & 2019. ❧ Our venue is a premier destination, offering breath-taking views in well-appointed surroundings.

❧ Weddings and receptions receive a personal touch and attention-to-detail that’s sure to leave a truly memorable impression.

From concept, to planning, to execution, our expertly-trained staff is ready to offer a unique experience to you and your guests. ❧ Our clubhouse acts as your HQ for the day’s activities. Plus, our professional staff will orchestrate every detail to perfection!

We host functions of 250+ guests for dinner and dancing.

Our event package includes: Large private room with a panoramic view of marina and lake Seating for all sizes of groups Audiovisual equipment available for rent Our catering office will help plan your menu Personal wedding coordinator or assistant on-site throughout your event Building wide WiFi Contact Linda at 306-929-2211 for more information.

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premarital counsellinG can

save Your marriage

by Hilary Klassen

A

before it begins

s savvy citizens of the world, most of us do research and seek outside opinions when faced with big decisions, like buying a new vehicle or changing jobs.

So why do so many of us do so little prep for marriage?

A couple of Saskatoon therapists say it’s rare for couples to seek premarital counselling. In our culture, it takes more effort to get a driver’s license than a marriage license.

“Most people have accidental marriages. Very few people are intentional and deliberate about the kind of marriage they want,” says Ed Risling of Prairie Therapists and Trainers.

Couples into their second or third mar-

riages are the exception. They’re not keen to repeat earlier mistakes.

The benefits of premarital counselling are both measurable and immeasurable. According to Psychology Today, studies suggest that couples who choose to receive counselling have lower divorce rates than those who do not.

Some of the benefits include counsellor wisdom, outside opinion, awareness of issues, divorce prevention, learning how to communicate respectfully and developing a stronger relationship.

Barbara Morrison from Broadway Therapy, a colleague of Risling, likes to ask couples why they’re getting married. She’s familiar with the answers, but she’s looking for how they answer

Studies suggest that couples who choose to receive counselling have lower divorce rates than those who do not. Getty Images

12

Weddings Wonderful | Winter 2018

and how they interact – the clues to their preparedness.

Then she’ll ask them what they’re really committing to. Are they committing to personal growth, to taking care of their physical and mental health?

Are they committed to being partners in parenting and household chores?

Morrison recently worked with a couple who are striving to be their best selves in various areas. They explored issues around sex, money, family, children, extended family and communication skills, “but it’s really a whole lot more when you unpack it, ” she says.

Couples who seek counselling on their own initiative have better outcomes than those who are mandated by a minister or who attend marriage prep courses offered in large groups.

Risling says if a couple is teachable, he’ll help them create the big picture of what their marriage looks like spiritually, financially, sexually, relationally and recreationally. He’ll provide models and coaching on how to communicate that. “I cover some of the same bases they do in marriage prep only in a more detailed and intense manner.”

Asked what are some warning signs a couple may have trouble ahead, Risling laughs and says, “They’re getting married.” Then he turns serious and cites John Gottman, an American psychology professor known for his work on marital relationships. Gottman says patterns of criticism and contempt, followed by defensiveness and stonewalling, are predictors of divorce.

Risling also looks for the politics in the relationship. “Who is it that’s defining reality and who’s going along with it?” he asks. “If one person keeps defining reality, I can see problems down the road. The other person loses who they are, and either they’re completely lost in the relationship or there’s going to be a kick-back.”

Couples are typically so in love, they only have a vague sense of what’s ahead. Morrison says they’ll probably be surprised by the differences they discover between them. They may question their love or think it’s the end of the relationship. But it’s the start of growth. She says you’ll be tempted to have an affair, or you will have an affair.

You can expect to re-choose your partner several times in the relationship, unless you don’t. “Don’t assume you’re always going to be on the same page.

You won’t. The important thing is, how are you going to resolve that, how will you negotiate.”

Morrison and Risling are in the throes of co-authoring a book about a

relationship revolution they’re witnessing, that she says is taking place around the world. The book is called, “Fully Half Committed”. They’re hoping it will be completed in the fall of 2018.

“If you want to have a real, intentional, very powerful, strong adult relationship, the book will be helpful to you,” Morrison says.

Risling has been doing therapy for 46 years and still loves it. “I’m in awe of relationships, of the pressures they place on people and the growth that takes place as a result of relationships.”

If couples have one take-away from premarital counseling, Morrison hopes it’s that they understand they need to get counselling once they’re married. “Your histories will bump into each other. The question is, will it be gently or with a slap,” she says. “The devastation we see in relationships is huge.”

Being preventative through premarital counselling provides the beginnings of the foundation for a healthy and lasting relationship.

11 Questions to DisCuss before You saY ‘i Do’!

did your family slam doors, discuss things calmly or withdraw in silence when disagreements arose? how much flirting with other people is acceptable? are we having kids? if so, will you change diapers? how do you feel about my parents? how important is sex to you? will our finances be separate? is watching pornography okay? how much social media time with our friends of the opposite sex is okay? what are we actually committing to? how will we negotiate when we’re not on the same page?

Weddings Wonderful | Winter 2018

13

maKe Your

WeDDing

more

Double Vision will bring magic and comedy to your event. Michael and Mitchell Hrycan are Canada’s only identical twin magicians! Supplied photo

entertaining by ryan Hall

Y

our wedding is a day that you will remember for the rest of your life. From the smiling faces of family and friends, to beautiful venues, and the first glimpse of your spouse-to-be, there are a multitude of memories waiting to be made. Recently, many couples have been enlisting the help of professional entertainers to add an extra element to their special day and help in the creation of those magic moments.

For a long time, the template for a wedding and reception was based on what the previous generation had done, particularly the structure of a parent’s ceremony and reception.

Often, this was based on the idea of a big, formal wedding which had its roots in the past. “Until recently, the 1981 marriage between Prince Charles and Lady Dianna was the basis for a traditional wedding,” says Jeremy A. Cook, a fiddler with The Residuals (theresiduals.ca) and the Mac Talla Quartet, “with an empha14

Weddings Wonderful | Winter 2018

sis of formality and a large number of attendees.”

However, recently, a move towards less formal, smaller and more personalized weddings has started, aided by the variety of resources now available. “With so many websites like Pinterest only a click away, couples are able to see how many possibilities there really are,” says Trystan Meyers from Armed with Harmony Music Services (armedwithharmony. ca). “Today’s vendors are able to bring basic, and over the top, weddings to life.”

The result has been an increase in tradition-busting ideas such as theme weddings, complete with cosplay and funny skits, though Mitchell and Michael Hrycan of Double Vision Magic (doublevisionmagic.com) say the motivation remains unchanged as “at heart, all couples want to create something memorable for themselves and their guests.”

When it comes to creating that special moment, couples are turning to

professional entertainers to add that finishing touch. Not only do professionals bring a high level of quality to an event, but they provide peace of mind by letting everyone know that the entertainment is in good hands. “When an audience realizes that there’s a professional on stage, they relax and have a good time,” says Hrycan.

This is especially true when the entertainment involves components that might be dangerous in the wrong hands, such as with explosives and fireworks. Todd Schafer, The Firework Addict (thefireworkaddict.com), explains, “A professional not only enhances the creative aspect of the performance, but they understand the insurance, zoning and safety requirements as well.” The end result is that everyone can focus on having fun, and not worry about any ‘what if’ scenarios they aren’t prepared to deal with.

Using professional magic and firework vendors is only part of the pic-

The Mac Talla Quartet is a Saskatoon-based string quartet interested in playing all types of music for weddings and other social events. Supplied photo

ture though, as more and more couples are employing live musicians. Traditionally, this meant having them play before, during, and after the ceremony, often from a select list of classical pieces. Nowadays, live musicians are employed in a variety of ways, and asked to perform pieces from several different genres. These live performers bring an added element of energy to the occasion, and can help ensure things run smoothly by responding to rehearsed cues, or compensating for unexpected delays and mishaps.

Finally, with theme weddings growing in popularity, live musicians can create specialized setlists that fit any mood and ensure their performance adds to the desired ambience.

The goal of any vendor is to be entertaining while ensuring that the bride and groom are the stars of the show.

Of course, this will mean different things to every couple, based on their own unique vision for the day. In most cases, to make that dream a reality, couples should sit down with an event professional and have an open discussion. “Often, entertainers will have some ideas on how to reach your end goal,” says Meyers, “and might even have suggestions that you hadn’t considered.”

It’s important to plan ahead when hiring specialized entertainers. “Many acts are booked well in advance,” says Cook, “and in some cases that means two years beforehand, so you want to get started early.”

Due process is also important, especially when it comes to something as important as your wedding day. “Do your research on who is experienced, trustworthy and credible before committing, so that you can relax and enjoy the show on your big day,” says Meyers.

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