A W E D D I N G L I F EST Y L E M AGA Z I N E ISSUE ONE - SPRING 2013
blush wedding photography
Ellebay Bridal ELLEBAY.COM | ELLEBAYBRIDAL@GMAIL.COM | 778 397 8880
Thank you to all of the amazing vendors who mentored us, shared stories with us and collaborated with us on this issue. Thank you for sharing your vision, your creativity and your aesthetic with us. Thank you for submitting your work, for sharing long “shoot” days with us, and for bringing your “A” game, every time! Thank you to Todd & Cody for your patience, input, for listening to us & “talking it out”. Most of all, thank you for reminding us that we could do it, when we found ourselves in doubt. Finally, thank you to our wonderful friends & families: your support has been immense and so important to us. You continue to inspire us to share love stories, as you are incredible examples of dedication, love and support to each other and to those around you.
S PR I N G 2013
BEAUTY REVIEWS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
37
& bridal looks with JoAnna Keller
LETTER from the editors
7
ENGAGEMENTS
8
Chanel & Sam Tai & Sylvia
16
44 vendor profile
celsia florist
56
BREAKING BREAD
feeding your loved ones, with Savoury City
REAL WEDDINGS Lauren & Marcus
24
business profile brick & mortar living
93
80
Alex & Kate
Teresa & Russell
118
106
Michael & Jackie
131
GROOMS & greens
HISTORICALLY MODERN
180
inspiration for his lounge
fashion in the streets
Dollars & Sense buy your first home with advice from Liz
SWEET SUNSHINE
a mini shoot from LA
210
156 162
FAVOURITE florals
peachy beachy, bright & modern, old-fashioned romance & rural meets yaletown
CITY GUIDE
216
Manhattan
now, get reading!
MAGNOLIA PHOTOGRAPHIC SHERRY PICKERELL PHOTOGRAPHY
WHITE PEAR PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIOS INC
WHITE PEAR PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIOS INC
AN INTERACTIVE & FUN WAY TO SELECT YOUR WEDDING TEAM
VEILT V.COM
VANCOUVER
|
NEW YORK
CAPTURED by SARAH ENGLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
Hello! Welcome to our first issue of The Refinery Magazine! We are so excited that you have checked out our magazine, and even more excited to be sharing with you some amazing work of vendors far and wide. Being based in Metro Vancouver has given us many opportunities to share the wealth of beauty found here on the west coast, including some amazing engagement sessions, inspiration for a grooms lounge, and many more unique and special features tailored for the modern and urban couple. We are especially fond of the word “lifestyle� as we find weddings are more than just one day. We feel the months and weeks that go in to creating your wedding is like starting another chapter in your life. Our goal is to not only bring you the finest modern weddings, but to also bring you inspiration for your home, vacations, and the wonderful process of starting your life together in marriage. When we started planning the pages of The Refinery Magazine we began relying on the things that we love: Intimate dinners among friends, candlelight, refurbished warehouse venues, unique florals, good eats, and good laughs. We hope you enjoy our first issue, and we look forward to bringing you a new issue every four months: each filled with new, fun and fresh ideas to make your dream day all about you! With love, Ainsley & Madison The Refinery Girls
CHANEL & SAM CAPTURED by JAMIE DEL AINE PHOTOGRAPHY
Wh e n d i d you meet, and how? Sam and I met August 2007. His friend was dating one of my friends and we ended up at the same house together before going out for the night. We started hanging out right away but we didn’t really start dating until 2009.
What is your favourite thing about each other? CHANEL - My favorite thing about Sam is his sense of humor. He is the best at making me laugh. He’s also one of the smartest people I know. He makes me look at things in a way I never would have on my own. SAM - I love how beautiful she is no matter what the scenario... She is the most beautiful when she is sleeping. I love how patient and understanding she is with others, especially me. I love the way her eyes light up when she smiles, especially if it is me who is making her smile! I love the way she smells and the calming feeling I get when her scent is around me. I love the feeling I get in my entire body when I am doing something as simple as holding her hand.
What is your engagement story? Sam and I got engaged at the end of August 2012. We were in Vancouver and we had two birthday parties to attend the same day. First was his neices 1st birthday during the day, the second was a birthday bbq for my step-dad that night. (I learned after) at his neices birthday his mom and my grandma were pressuring him to ask me while we were still in town (we were living in Toronto at the time) but Sam had wanted to plan something special once we were back home. I left the birthday party early to get to the bbq on time and Sam was going to meet me later. When he got to the bbq I was actually napping upstairs because I wasn’t feeling well and Sam came and knelt by the bed to check on me. Without any warning (and me still groggy and half asleep) he said, “since we are both hypocondriacs and think we are going to die on the plane back to Toronto, maybe we should get married” and he pulled the ring out from behind his back. I half sat up and just said “what!? Really?! are you sure?!” and then started to cry. It was nice because I was really surprised and we were able to go and join the birthday bbq and share the news with our family in person rather then back in Toronto over the phone.
When is the big day, and what is your vision? Our wedding will be October 9th, this year. We’re hoping it will be really intimate and fun. Lots of laughing and dancing. And really good food. Nothing too extravagant, but with our own personal touches.
T AI & S YLVIA CAPTURED by OWL & FOX STUDIOS
LOVE IS IN THE AIR
When did you meet, and how? We met at church many years ago but didn’t catch each other’s eye until a roadtrip with friends where we ended up in the same car together. What is your favourite thing about each other? SYLVIA - His generosity. TAI - I love how fun and silly she is. What is your engagement story? We drove up to Tin Can Bay, QLD to go fishing (Tai loves fishing) and feed dolphins (I love dolphins!). I asked his brother, who is also a goldsmith/jeweller, to make a ring and at the end of the trip I gave him a fishing lure with the ring attached & note asking him to marry me. Then the really fun part came when we got to design my engagement ring and he made it from scratch. When is the big day, and what is your vision? We’re planning to celebrate with family and friends in a gardenparty style wedding ceremony at London Heritage Farm in June 2014.
business profile:
brick & mortar CAPTURED by MICHAEL D PHOTOGRAPHY
“It is a platform for our creativity and a source for others to gather inspiration.�
“We pride ourselves on two main concepts: the emphasis to source and buy local, including new and vintage or reimagined products. Over 95% of our products are made by some of the most creative and talented British Columbians. The other, something we put a lot of energy and focus on, is being a “brick and mortar” business, where we can give a memorable face-to-face customer experience. Brick & Mortar Living, at the heart, is everything we have experienced, loved, enjoyed, endured and built together. It is a platform for our creativity and a source for others to gather inspiration. It also means business independence; full control over quality, creativity and company direction.” - Julia, Emma & Jenn - Owners, Brick & Mortar Living
EDITOR’S PIC KS Our favourite artisans in the shop:
READING LIST Kinfolk Magazine Anthology Magazine THINGS TO WEAR Type B Things Laura Knits Georgina Baker Jewellery MM STATIONARY Potato Stamp Cards Blue Spoons Paper Products District Dog Designs Melanie Kimmett GOOD GIFTS Tealicious Tea Company The Loving Spoon Field Trip What The Frame (WTF) BRFC FOR YOUR MAN Belvedere - Classy Goods for Classy Gents D+V Reclamations Wine Barrel
Tiffany Choi | 604 961 4782 MACARONSCHEZMOI.COM
product review with,
JoA n n a Ke l l e r HAIR & M AKE UP ARTIS T
PRODUCT
SEXY
MOTHER PUCKER
lip plumper
BRAND - SOAP & GLORY
PRICE POINT - $15 - $19
“Sexy Mother Pucker is the best lip plumper I have ever used. Its unique tingling sensation and immediate visible results make this product a must. “SMP” is ADDICTIVE! I find myself re-applying it as soon as the electric buzzing sensation goes away. For the cost of $15 - $19 it is a great substitute for pricey and painful lip injections and is available at your nearest Shoppers Drug Mart. Soap and Glory is the brand responsible for SMP and is already extremely popular in the U.K. The plumping formula is available in many shades and types of lip products including my favorite clear version: Extreme Sexymotherpucker. So next time you are itching to try out a new product give Sexy Motherpucker a shot!”
NATURAL BRIDE with a focus on skin
MAC BB CREAM COMPACT ARBONNE VEGAN MAKEUP PRIMER
Geisha ink liquid liner in brown
CARGO BLUERAY BLUSH
MAKE UP & HAIR BY JOANNA KELLER CAPTURED by MAGNOLIA PHOTOGRAPHIC
VINTAGE BRIDE with a focus on lips
MAC STUDIO FIX FOUNDATION ELEMENTS MINERAL LOOSE PIGMENT - “TUXEDO WHITE”
“THEY’RE REAL”MASCARA BY BENEFIT
MAC MATTE LIPSTICK, “RUSSIAN RED”
MAKE UP & HAIR BY JOANNA KELLER CAPTURED by MAGNOLIA PHOTOGRAPHIC
DRAMATIC BRIDE with an eye focus
MAC LIPSTICK, “SHY GIRL”
L’OREAL FELT TIP LIQUID EYELINER, BL ACK
LOTUS BIOMINERAL EYESHADOW, L AVENDER MAC EYESHADOW, “CARBON”
MAKE UP & HAIR BY JOANNA KELLER CAPTURED by MAGNOLIA PHOTOGRAPHIC
vendor profile:
celsia florist CAPTURED by THE NICKERSONS
“The opportunity to be surrounded by gorgeous flowers while sharing in people’s lives; it is an honour I will always value.”
vendor profile: celsia florist NESTLED in the heart of Kitsilano in a beautiful 100-year-old heritage building is a little florist carving its niche in the Vancouver floral world. Celsia Florist is a boutique design studio with a love of whimsy and an eye for the unique. A step inside their Arbutus Street store reveals exquisite chandeliers hanging from a bronzepainted ceiling and walls lined with old farmhouse windows, wooden crates and antique dressers. Quirky succulents and stately orchids stand side-by-side while thrift-store gems such as babushka dolls and a 1950 edition of Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables quite firmly hold their own on the shelves. The attention to detail is a feast for the eyes and it’s a trait that translates in to their floral design. Owned and managed by Eddy and Johanna Siu since 2008, Celsia Florist has relished in the opportunity to grow as a business while stamping its mark on the floral industry with a very individual style. Coming from Georgia, there’s a touch of southern charm in everything Johanna creates, as well as a distinct botanical influence in her designs. “Nature is certainly our inspiration,” Johanna said. “Rather than focusing on trend, we like to focus on how we can highlight the best in nature. We let the colors, shapes and textures inspire us to create new things, whether it be through using branches and fruit, wildflowers or vines. “We also love to add a bit of whimsy, such as a hard-to-find bloom, a succulent or even a family heirloom. We love a touch of timeless elegance.”
“Nature is certainly our inpiration.”
Creating a unique connection with people’s lives was what drew Johanna to floristry in the first place. “I was originally in medicine because I wanted to connect with people,” Johanna said. “But after having my nose buried in books for so many years I just had this desire to be more creative. “I’d been taking floral courses as a bit of a hobby and then there was this serendipitous moment where a gorgeous floral store became available in my favorite neighborhood with a landlord I had known 10 years earlier when I was a student. It all just felt so right and was obviously meant to be.” The fulfillment both personally and creatively was instant, Johanna said. “It’s a privileged position to be in to help people express emotion. You’re really a part of their everyday lives from intimate moments and cherished dates through to those times when people really need something uplifting. Every day is an occasion and we get to share in that.
“CREATING A UNIQUE CONNECTION
with people’s lives was what drew Johanna to floristry in the first place.” “My only regret in this whole experience has been not having enough hours in the day to be at the store. I have been pregnant or with a newborn for three of the past four years but now that my children are getting older I’m starting to find that time again to join my team at the shop.” Having spent a couple of hours in the Celsia store ourselves, we share Johanna’s desire to spend more time there! Beauty. Overload. It’s a perk of the job that is not lost on Johanna or her team. “The opportunity to be surrounded by gorgeous flowers while sharing in people’s lives; it is an honour I will always value.” ** Celsia Florist can create florals for all occasions and sentiments from small “just because” flowers through to large-scale weddings and corporate events. For more information visit www.celsiaflorist.com of find them on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.
B REAKING B READ FEEDING YOUR LOVED ONES, WITH SAVOURY CITY CAPTURED by SWEET PEA PHOTOGRAPHY
WATERCRESS SOUP with POACHED SPOT PRAWN & CHIVE QUENELLE
FRESH, LIGHT VEGETABLE BASED SOUP WITH LOCAL BC SPOT
PRAWNS, AND A CREME FRAICHE CHIVE QUENELLE FOR ADDED RICHNESS.
COOL, BRIGHT & OH SO PRETTY!
BEST SERVED WITH A SPARKLING WHITE WINE ,
PROSECCO, OR A NEUTRAL DRY ITALIAN WHITE SUCH AS SOAVE.
SUMMER SALMON “NICOISE” SALAD
OUR TAKE ON THE CLASSIC
- A COMPOSED MAIN-COURSE SALAD FOUND IN THE BISTROS OF FRANCE.
Lightly poached salmon, green beans, baby potatoes, eggs (quail or hen), Nicoise olives, greens and golden beets, with a mustard vinaigrette.
The perfect thing to eat on a Sunny spring day, and a great alternative to a hot meal
best served with
a cold French rose and some great bread
RASPBERRY CLAFOUTIS
A DELICIOUS FRUIT & CUSTARD BAKED DESSERT, TRADITIONALLY MADE with CHERRIES.
YET ANOTHER nod to the French classics, but with a twist
BEST PAIRED WITH raspberry eau-de-vie
FROM ALL OF US AT SAVOURY CITY,
bon-appetit!
A LITTLE TASTE OF
SAVOURY CITY Savoury City is a catering and event planning company, and they have been serving up spectacular catering in Vancouver, BC since 2003. In a nutshell, they create delicious food with integrity, informed by sustainability, to ultimately build community. They compliment their catering services with exacting event planning services that are professional, thoughtful and assured. For more information on how they can provide a stunning meal for you and your guests, please visit their website at savourycity.com or give them a call at 604-875-8484.
Lauren & Marcus SECLUDED & SENTIMENTAL IN STANLEY PARK CAPTURED by JARUSHA BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY
Lauren & Marcus
A LOVE STORY “We met in the halls of high school, through one friend or another, and I was hooked. It was more like lust at first sight (I was 15, remember), but over the years, as we flitted around each other, stealing smooches in hidden corners of the school, something grew between us, and the summer we graduated we spent falling in love. Fast-forward nine and a half years, to me on one knee, in a snow bank, in the same spot where we shared our very first kiss so long ago. The tears on our faces were nearly freezing from the cold Ottawa wind. She says , “Of course!” Though we now live in Vancouver, the original plan was to have an autumn wedding back in the Ottawa Valley, somewhere surrounded by the changing trees and the perfect fall air. But a few months into planning, we realized things were quickly getting away from what we really wanted: a small, simple to-do with no pomp and no unneeded anything. The list of guests had grown to 130+, and this restricted where and how we could get married. Lauren and I were getting to be grouchy, and so we tore it all down, and started to plan anew. What came to be was our dream realized. Two blocks from our home in the West End is a small grove in Stanley Park, where bamboo grows among the most vivid wildflowers. We laid out blankets, filled up picnic baskets with finger sandwiches and cupcakes, chilled champagne and beers, and played croquet in the sun. Add in that it was made possible by our friends: makeup by Kari Anderson, hair by Lauren’s salon-owning sister Arran Elliott, cupcakes by Sandra Lee, a video by Gerrit Van Woudenberg, and of course the photography by Jarusha Brown, who are all so talented. We were married surrounded by our families and our fourteen closest and dearest friends - and it was perfect.” - Marcus
classically inspired catering that will be just slightly better than your dress...
catering & events
sweet pea photography
Alex & Kate Galiano Getaway
C APTURED by THE NIC KERSONS
“When it all began for Kate & Alex, they both would have said they weren’t looking for a relationship. But shortly after they met, they just knew. She was only supposed to stay in Vancouver for a month or two. It ended up being a much longer stay than that. Love snuck up on them. When Kate & Alex came into our lives, they told us that they already felt like they were married, but it was time to make it official.” - The Nickersons
“This September we photographed an incredible elopement/micro-wedding on Galiano Island in British Columbia.” “Kate & Alex wanted to keep things simple and stress-free for their wedding. They weren’t interested in planning a big event but instead, decided to have an intimate wedding and follow up later on with casual receptions for friends & family who weren’t present on the day. For them, less was more & their desire for simplicity and meaning made for one of the most magical and heartfelt weddings we’ve ever photographed. Kate & Alex’s wedding was an outdoor ceremony by the seaside under an Arbutus tree. They had 7 of their family members present for the wedding. The ceremony was made special with a blessing of the rings where each family member held the wedding rings for about a minute and sent silent blessings on Kate & Alex’s marriage. Kate’s mum also gave a lovely reading and short speech during the ceremony, which was very important to Kate & Alex.
THE GALIANO INN
An intimate dinner at the Galiano Inn followed with impromptu toasts & a lantern release in honour of their friends & loved ones who couldn’t share their day with them. It was simple, but incredibly beautiful. Kate & Alex’s attire was a nod to vintage with an incredibly gorgeous lace dress that Kate’s friend made for her & Alex’s fedora. It poured rain during their portrait time, but they totally embraced it--they were actually hoping for rain on their wedding day. The feel of the day was incredibly relaxed. They had music playing during their dinner in a shuffled order & when Kate & Alex’s first dance song came on, they simply got up from the table & danced. Kate, being a write and lover of the written word, had prepared a selection of famous love letters for each family member to read aloud after dinner for some entertainment and reflection. It was so sweet & so them.” - The Nickersons
Liz Reid
MORTGAGES
“I’m never too busy for you!” Accredited Mortgage Professional 604 290 4835 | lizreid362@gmail.com LIZREID-MORTGAGES.CA
teresa & russell LOVE IS COLOURFUL LUCIDA PHOTOGRAPHY
“Teresa & Russell’s wedding was like an elopement which included family and close friends. They left their East Van home with suitcases packed for their Montreal honeymoon for which they were leaving only a couple of hours after the ceremony! We did some whirlwind portraits in their neighbourhood before heading to Vanier Park to help friends set up some chairs and refreshments. Guests arrived, they were married, they mingled and they left, as you can see.” Melia - Lucida Photography
LET FUN BE THE COLOUR OF LOVE
EVAN of FLOWERZ
Michael & Jackie EVERL ASTING LOVE AT THE WALDORF CAPTURED by T WO PEAS PHOTOGRAPHY
WALDORF WEDDING
ANNA ELIZABETH CAKES // FAIRMONT VANCOUVER & THE WALDORF HOTEL // FAIRY GODMOTHER WEDDINGS // HOOPLAH PHO
OTOBOOTH // ISABELLE’S BRIDAL // MINK MAKEUP AND HAIR // THE FLOWER FACTORY
LOVE AT THE WALDORF
“But it was in grade 10 that I fell in love with her...” I just I’ll just start with saying, I married my best friend. We met when we were each 13 years old (just saying that makes me feel so old now), and we became pretty good friends. Throughout high school it seemed that we grew closer and closer, but it was in grade 10 that I fell in love with her. We never actually dated in high school though, but always remained close friends. After high school, life seemed to get in the way and we each went in different directions. We tried to keep in touch, but as I’m sure most of you know, you just end up losing touch with one and other. A couple of years ago I saw that Jack was in Vancouver and I got in touch with her to see if she would like to get a coffee. And that was it. I swear I know this sounds silly, but I knew - just like I knew when I was 16 - that we needed to be together. We each made the necessary changes we needed to, and we were together. And now we are married! We chose the Waldorf because we love it there. We moved in together just as it opened, and would often go to the tiki bar for drinks. The Waldorf has so much character and we really wanted our wedding to be different, unique and something that was a true representation of us. We also live in and (of course) love East Vancouver, so it was important to us that our wedding represented where we live and love to be. The Waldorf has always been an East Vancouver landmark, we love the atmosphere in the hotel and we thought it would provide a great experience for our guests (Who knew it would be the last wedding at the Waldorf as we know it?). I would love to tell you a few of our favorite things about the wedding, but that’s a really hard question for both of us! We both loved everything about it. We spent a long time planning it out and deciding on every detail together. There was nothing we had to compromise on, we work well together and and the vision of our day was clear to both of us. We loved every aspect of our wedding day. The food was amazing, Anna’s cake was awesome and the music was insanely good! A friend of mine DJ’ed 50’s & 60’s soul and garage on vinyl. We couldn’t be happier with the photo’s Two Pea’s took at our wedding - we all looked fantastic - Jackie looked amazing in her dress and I loved my suit (I got it made at Harry Rosen). When it came to rings, no expense was spared - we finally decided on Tiffany’s. Your wedding ring is something you wear for the rest of your life, and we have both been wearing ours with pride since our wedding. If you were going to make me pick a favourite part of the wedding, I would have to say that it was getting to marry Jackie. - Michael
s a e d i w e n g n i x . i n g i s M e d ss e l e m i t th i w CELSIA FLORIST IS A FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS SET
IN THE HEART OF KITSILANO. OUR VINTAGE & MODERN STYLE MIXES NEW IDEAS WITH TIMELESS DESIGN - RESULTING IN SOMETHING TRULY BEAUTIFUL.
TIMELESS AND ELEGANT. ROMANTIC AND WHIMSICAL. VINTAGE AND LUXE. BRINGING WEDDING VISIONS TO LIFE.
CONTACT US TO BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION.
RING 604.731. 3314 WEDDINGS@CELSIAFLORIST.COM
WWW.CELSIAFLORIST.COM
Earthling Photography
CELSIA FLORIST 1930 ARBUTUS STREET VANCOUVER, BC
604 831 5620
~ CLASSIC INNOVATIVE CUSTOMIZED ~
FIORIRE.CA
GROOMS & GREENS INS P IRATION FOR HIS L OUNGE
A COLLABORATION with AINSLEY’S AFFAIRS CAPTURED by MAGNOLIA PHOTOGRAPHIC
FLORAL STYLING - DELOVELY CREATIVE, CUPCAKES - PINK RIBBON BAKERY, MACARONS - MACARONS CHEZ MOI, ON LOCATION at LOFTY LIVING
GROOMS & GREENS inspiration for his lounge
TERRARIUM OLD FAITHFUL SHOP
KENT FOLDING COMB, O L D FA I T H F U L S H O P
FOX & BRIE BOW TIE, ETSY
ALDESNEIGES, ALDO
WHISKEY ROC KS, INDIGO
B U S H M I L L S I R I S H W H I S K E Y, 21 Y E A R
FA U X B O I S & G O L D I C E B U C K E T , E T S Y
GL ASS BOTTLES W/ WO O D S TO P P E R S , W E S T E L M
Sweet Sunshine A MINI STYLIZED SHOOT by NADIA HUNG & DIANA CHUANG
“The earth laughs in flowers” E.E Cummings
Spring is a joyful time of year, especially for weddings. Fresh cut flowers, sunshine, April showers, and of course, pastels in muted and delightful tones, go together to create stunning and inspirational celebrations. There is also something about Los Angeles that makes us drool a little, because we know how beautiful it must be in the spring. Put a little touch of spring in a beautiful LA setting, and you get magic. We were thrilled to have Nadia Hung submit her mini shoot to us, as we love fresh clean lines, simplicity and urban settings. We find there is so much beauty in the rough pavement and brick that surrounds us on a daily basis. Nadia & Diana’s selection of florals in oranges, yellows and corals create that punch of colour that can bring anyone’s wedding from boring and bland to fun and light. To really get the feel of this shoot for your special day, we recommend choosing a palette of similar colours such as cotton candy pink, cream, butter yellow, spring green and a warm tangerine. Using florals like Calla Lilies, Tulips, Astible, Gerbera Daisys, light Hydrangeas and soft mint Dusty Miller, will give any spring bouquet depth and personality. To find a beautiful daybed for lounging and socializing, we recommend checking out Trove Vintage Rentals in Abbotsford, or perusing your local flea market or antique store. A simple trip to West Elm on granville street for some accent pillows in your colours will make a statement in any photo. Us Refinery girls can’t wait for our time to go to LA and do some shoots for The Refinery Magazine. We wish to share with you, like Nadia and Diana did so excellently, the wonder and delight of some fresh beautiful Californian sunshine! DRESS - David’s Bridal FLORIST - Xavier’s Florist MODEL - Diana Chuang STYLIST & MAKEUP - Diana Chuang RING & HAIRDRESS - Handmade by Diana Chuang CAPTURED BY - Nadia Hung Photography
ads
FAVOURITE FLORALS FIND YOUR FAVE: PEACHY BEACHY, BRIGHT & MODERN, OLD-FASHIONED ROMANCE & RURAL YALETOWN FLORAL DESIGN by FIORIRE & DELOVELY CREATIVE CAPTURED by MAGNOLIA PHOTOGRAPHIC
Peachy Beachy by FIORIRE, Custom Florals by Rosalba
INSPIRED BY WEST COAST OCEANSIDE WEDDINGS SUMMER TIME BREEZE & BLUSHING BRIDES
N R E D O M & T H BRIG E
EATIV R C Y L E V by DELO
INSPIRED BY RETRO - MOD ST YLE A PUNC H OF COLOUR & WARM SUNSETS
Old - Fashioned Romance by FIORIRE, Custom Florals by Rosalba
INSPIRED BY CL ASSIC GL AMOUR RIC H GOLD, DEEP RED & REFURBISHED HERITAGE VENUES
meets RURAL
YALETOWN by DELOVELY CREATIVE
INSPIRED BY RUSTIC YALETOWN DINNER BY CANDLELIGHT & EXPOSED BRIC K
EVAN NOBLE PHOTOGRAPHY
VANCOUVER
|
VICTORIA |
INTERNATIONAL
Boutique Weddings & Events HELLO@AINSLEYSAFFAIRS.COM
AINSLEYSAFFAIRS.COM
historically MODERN FASHION IN THE S TREETS
SHOT ON LOCATION AT 60 WEST CORDOVA, ELLEBAY CUSTOM GOWNS, THE APARTMENT PHOTOGRAPHY
the jillian
the cristen
the kirsten with a floral skirt attachment
the rosa with a taupe petal chiffon skirt
the juliana
the maya
CONTRIBUTORS
THE APARTMENT PHOTOGRAPHY THE APARTMENT CREATIVE ELLEBAY BRIDAL FLOWER FACTORY CELSIA FLORIST BRICK & MORTAR MID-CENTURY MODERN 60 WEST CORDOVA
HAIR
CRYSTAL LOPEZ SARAH ALICIA THOMAS
MAKEUP
CELIA BICA KRYSTAL RIPOLO MODELS JULIA DECOURCY ONYX BAILEY KRYSTINA SMITH
ASK LIZ dollars & sense for your first home. LIZ REID - ACCREDITED MORTGAGE PROFESSIONAL
5 Steps to Save for a Home
Once upon a time...there was a girl and a guy who got married and bought a house and lived happily ever after... (Cue the needle scratching as it is pulled off the record). If you are thinking, “WHAT, they bought a house?” you are not alone. Many people, whether single, engaged or married, have come to the realization that the 1950’s life described above will not be the way a modern person in 2013 will start off as an adult. Houses or “single detached dwellings”, at least in the Lower Mainland, are pretty much out of reach for most first time homebuyers. Now this may not be the case if you come from a family of wealthy parents that will buy you a house as a wedding gift (please stop laughing... this does actually happen once in a blue moon). For the majority of us, we have to buy our first “home” ourselves, and yes, there oftentimes can be some help from parents, but it is always best to start the savings process on your own. The question is: How do you do this? Considering that the minimum down payment required by the bank is 5% of the purchase price, the savings required can be quite substantial.
Never fear, as a Mortgage Professional creating solutions every day, I have created a plan to help the average person become a first time home buyer in 5 easy steps:
1
CREATE A BUDGET – If you have one great, however if you don’t, start one immediately. You can’t cre- ate a plan without knowing what things cost for you on a monthly basis. An easy place to start is with mint.com. It is online, free and simple to use! What else would you want?
2
SET UP A SEPARATE SAVINGS ACCOUNT - This is easily done with most banks and will be your new place for depositing all the “extra” money that is outside your regular salary such as: - Bonuses from work - Tips, birthday money, lottery winnings - Engagement or wedding gift money - Profits from garage sales/Craigslist items you sell - Side jobs that you may get intermittently
3
DETERMINE WHAT IS NECESSARY – Once your budget is created, look at everything you are spend- ing money on in month and figure out if it is all totally necessary. This is old school, but it makes sense. Do you really need to buy lunch/coffee every day? Is the car payment totally necessary...how about buying a used vehicle with cash?
Shop for groceries and clothing by watching the sales and buying in bulk...stop impulse buying. Figure out what utilities are needed and consider how to replace them if possible (i.e. cable TV replaced by Netflix, cancel the home “land line” phone and just carry a cell phone, etc.)
4
TALK TO PROFESSIONALS FOR HELP – Many times, a good professional can save you thousands of dol lars and countless hours and all for free! Here are some options:
Independant Mortgage Brokers
Consider a Broker over a bank. Now I may be biased here, but Mortgage Professionals can look at what you earn, what you are currently paying for monthly rent and suggest how much you can afford and/or qualify for with the banks. They can find the best rates and show you ways to pay down your mortgage faster (once you have one). They are not motivated by one particular bank, therefore, they offer you an un-biased opinion, every time. Best part of all is that to you they are free as they are paid by the bank after your mortgage funds...BONUS!
Real Estate Agents
Talk to someone who specializes in the area you would like to live in. See if they have any insight into the current market and what may be a growing area or a great deal for a “first time homebuyer”. A Real Estate Agent that understands your likes & dislikes can save you time and money and when representing the buyer, the Real Estate Agent is free to you (they only charge you when selling). They also can tell you how much money you should expect to spend to get what you want. This can be a real eye-opener, but better now than later. Reality can be a good thing to keep your expectations in check.
5
Stay Motivated with Pictures - Go out to open houses and start collecting pictures of what it is you are hoping to move into. It is a proven fact that when we see and experience things, we are better able to envision our life after moving into and living there. Houzz.com/ is a great place to find ideas and get inspired.
With a little strategy and discipline you can create a plan to get you on your way!
LIZ REID Liz Reid is a Licensed Accredited Mortgage Professional with Dominion Lending – Aegis Mortgage Services and has been assisting new home buyers in the Lower Mainland and the Interior of BC for 6 years.
Next quarter, Liz will answer your mortgage and homeownership questions. Email them in to us and we will include you in a draw for free legal services for your new home purchase (up to a $500 value)! ASKLIZ@THEREFINERYMAG.COM
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AMANDA PICONE PHOTOGRAPHY
When you’re picking your honeymoon hot spot, we know that the typical places are Mexico, Hawaii, The Dominican Republic, and other hot, beachy locations.While those places are fun, relaxing and romantic, we’d like to give you some other options. Each issue we will explore a location that maybe wouldn’t be that close to the top of your honeymoon list, and we’re going to tell you why you should go back and take a second look.
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Must See NYC: The High Line & Meatpacking District AMANDA PICONE
When most people think of must-visit parks in New York City, Central Park immediately comes to mind. But as of 2009, there’s a new park in town… The High Line. The park was built on a historic freight rail line, elevated up above the West Side of Manhattan, and it’s amazing! The park offers stunning views (make sure to go up at sunset), unique structures, art installations, and on any given day, roaming artists gracing the space. My favorite highlights of the park include the Sundeck, where you can grab a wooden lounge chair and watch the reflection of the sky in the water fountain, the 10th Avenue Square, where you can watch taxis pass underneath the park through huge windows, the 23rd St. Lawn, reminiscent of Central Park’s Great Lawn, and the Wildflower Field, which is home to species that bloom year-round! I also love the ever-changing art installations, which display an incredible array of creativity.
“The Meatpacking Disctrict is probably best described as industrial meets luxurious.” The High Line begins one story above Manhattan’s Meatpacking District which, despite an unpleasant name, is an absolute must-see! In fact, you might even want to consider staying there. Two of Manhattan’s sexiest hotels are right at the base of the High Line, the Gansevoort and The Standard (which is notorious for its exhibitionist guests, who provide free entertainment to those strolling through the High Line!) These hotels are far enough away from the Times Square madness while still remaining easily accessible, and offer a more intimate and true NYC experience. The Meatpacking District is probably best described as industrial meets luxurious. Here you’ll find carefully designed graffiti amongst loading docks, cobblestone streets dotted with brownstones and intimate restaurants. Did I mention the shopping? The meatpacking district is home to such amazing boutiques like Christian Louboutin, Diane Von Furstenburg, Ted Baker,
NIGHT LIFE 675 BAR LE BAIN TOP OF THE STANDARD
“The Meatpacking District is home to such amazing boutiques like Christian Louboutin, Diance Von Furstenburg, Ted Baker, Tory Burch, the list goes on...” Tory Burch, the list goes on and on. The area is also home to some of the city’s best food! Be sure to check out Spice Market, 5 Ninth, and The Standard Grill after slipping into your new crimson-soled stilettos, and before heading out to experience the thriving nightlife! And of course, be sure to give me a call before heading into town for a once in a lifetime Unbridled in NYC photo shoot! I’ll lead the way and help with styling and creating a concept, you just need to show up, look fabulous, and be ready to have an amazing time. Be sure to mention The Refinery, so I can hook you up with an incredible deal. Hope to see you soon!
TO S H O P AT DIANE VON FURSTENBURG CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN TORY BURCH TED BAKER
TO LO O K AT THE HIGH LINE 23RD ST. LAWN AGORA GALLERY
TO D I N E AT 5 Ninth BUDDAKAN MARIMOTTO SPICE MARKET The Standard Grill
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CONTRIBUTORS AINSLEY REID MADISON HOPE DIANA CHUANG ELAINE NESBITT LIZ REID MARCO DEL RIO NADIA HUNG TAHNEE SANDERS PHOTOGRAPHERS
MAKE UP ARTISTS CELIA BICA JOANNA KELLER KRYSTAL RIPOLO HAIR ST YLISTS CRYSTAL LOPEZ SARAH ALICIA THOMAS
AMANDA PICONE PHOTOGRAPHY JAMIE DELAINE PHOTOGRAPHY JARUSHA BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY LUCIDA PHOTOGRAPHY MAGNOLIA PHOTOGRAPHIC MICHAEL D PHOTOGRAPHY OWL & FOX STUDIOS SARAH ENGLAND PHOTOGRAPHY SWEET PEA PHOTOGRAPHY THE APARTMENT PHOTOGRAPHY THE NICKERSONS TWO PEAS PHOTOGRAPHY
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