2017 The Bridal Guide Magazine by The Bridal Guide

416 230 8457 lifecustomized@matilyn.com

STAT I ON E RY

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DÉCOR

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D I G I TA L

FINE ART

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DESIGN

• PRODUCTION

Photography: 135mm Photography

EDITOR Catherine Thorpe editor@thebridalguide.ca

LETTER Welcome to the 2017 edition of The Bridal Guide Magazine! When we started planning this issue of The Bridal Guide Magazine, we knew we wanted to make some changes. We have more bridal fashion and spa mavens, out-of-this-world reception venues, floral geniuses, and innovative photographers than we have room for. Not to mention the cakes, entertainment, and miles-long list of incredible vendors waiting to partner with you to provide the wedding of your childhood dreams. We wanted to refresh the magazine so we could do an even better job of showing them off, and also offer you, dear bride-to-be, more of what you love—great advice, informative tips, and real wedding inspiration all in our same unique layout with our easy-access and clearly defined categories.

PUBLISHER Joe Plati joe@thebridalguide.ca ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Trula Pissas trula@thebridalguide.ca ACCOUNTS MANAGER Brittany McKenzie brittany.thebridalguide@gmail.com SOCIAL MEDIA ADVISOR Jennifer Williams ART DIRECTOR Judy MacWilliams judy@bamboomarketing.ca MARKETING DIRECTOR Michael Beaune michael@bamboomarketing.ca

So, how do we do all of that? We go BIG and choose a delicious selection of stock to feature our stories and vendors. Go ahead, feel the paper, press it to your cheek. No, really, I’ve done it. Planning a wedding is a wondrous, exciting, all-consuming affair. The success of which is hinged on everyone involved coming together in one perfectly seamless day. Planning an issue of The Bridal Guide magazine is not much different. In fact, we’ve included an article featuring a behind-the-scenes look on the time and teamwork involved to produce just our 2017 cover. It was a fantastic day full of passionate people and I’m super excited to introduce some of those vendors to you in these pages. Also in this issue you’ll find tips on finding the perfect wedding gown, the pros and cons of hiring a photography drone, an updated guide to your wedding footprint and more great content that will keep you flipping through the pages and sharing with your bridal team. (If I do say so, myself.) As always, you’ll find our exclusive Bridal Planner included in the magazine. We want you to revel in the details of your wedding planning. Linger from one to the next, and keep them close at hand. We’re passionate about those details and our team works hard every day to ensure that we can provide inspiration and direction whenever you might need it. That’s who we are, we’re part of your wedding squad. Enjoy your engagement, bride-to-be, it goes by so fast. Subscribe to our blog in order to lean on us for inspiration as you plan a day that is as unique as your relationship. And while I’m still ranting on here, let me remind you that we love to blog about real people with real stories—so share, share, share! Find us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram and tell us your stories. After your big day, be sure to upload your wedding to www.thebridalguide.ca under Real Weddings so that other brides-to-be will be inspired by all the details of your careful planning. You may even find your very own perfect wedding day filling the pages in the 2018 print issue of The Bridal Guide in our brand new Real Weddings section. From all of us here at The Bridal Guide magazine, happy wedding planning!

COVER AND TAB PAGE CREDITS - 2017 LOCATION Sarcoa Restaurant & Bar PHOTOGRAPHER G3 Designs GOWN Crème Couture FLOWERS Opening Night Flowers DÉCOR Ettridges MAKEUP Trula for Montana The Art of Makeup and Hair HAIR Pina & Brianna for Acqua Quebec Studio & Retreat MODEL Christine Garus Sailboat and Monkey Knots curtesy of Grand Trunk Station The Bridal Guide magazine is published annually and is dedicated to serving the bridal industry. Material in The Bridal Guide may not be reproduced in any form without written consent from the publisher. THE BRIDAL GUIDE 289-270-5412 www.thebridalguide.ca

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CONTENTS

12-13 REAL WEDDING Maria & Arber

54-55 YOUR WEDDING DAY The Perfect Motivation

84-85 REAL WEDDING Katherine & Cameron

29+64 WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY To drone or not to drone

66-67 ONE TEAM, ONE DAY, ONE COVER: Behind the scenes with TBG

108-109 REAL WEDDING Jordana and Crystal

48-49 HAIR & MAKEUP The Dress Rehersals

CATEGORIES •• •• • •• •• • • • •

Banquet Halls & Venues Honeymoon Destinations & Hotels Make-up & Hair, Health & Spas Tuxedo, Suits, Stag & Stagettes Gift Registry & Specialty Services Planners & Officiants Flowers & Décor Photography & Videography Cakes & Invitations Gowns, Bridesmaids, Mother of the Bride & Accessories DJ’s, Live Entertainment & Limos Real Estate, Finance & Insurance Bridal Planner

*All tabbed sections are colour coded.

74-76 6 TIPS to reduce your wedding footprint

118-119 REAL WEDDING Kamila and Justin

138-139 SHOPPING THE GOWN Which white is right 152-153 REAL WEDDING Dan & Alexis

122 HOW TO WRITE YOUR OWN VOWS

PUBLISHER’S Congratulations to all of our newly engaged couples. What an exciting time this is in your lives. The whole notion of finding the one you love and sharing some of the most beautiful moments in your lives that start with the adventure of your wedding. Without exception, our new full-size 2017 issue is our most exciting one todate. You’ll find this issue packed with more editorial offering ideas, tips and advice. We are especially proud to feature real couples and their “real weddings” for added inspiration. Our bigger and improved wedding planner allows you more space to keep track of all the little details. We have a multitude of vendors who equally share in our enthusiasm and excitement when it comes to helping you plan your perfect day. Enjoy going through this issue page by page, section by section, and don’t forget to tell our vendors that you saw them in the The Bridal Guide! Happy Planning! Joe Plati Publisher

Trula Pissas Associate Publisher

www.allurestudio.ca

38-39 10 HONEYMOON & DESTINATION WEDDINGS

124-137 2017 Hottest Gowns

Banquet Halls & Venues THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by G3 Designs

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from the day you say ‘yes’… to the day you say ‘i do’

Photos: Jason Curtis, Kelly Holinshead/Shutterbug Gallery, Krystal Robson Photography, Images by Paulo, Aamer Kapadia, Michael Steingard, Twenty Two Studios

32 unique golf course venues, endless possibilities. We are here to help in the full-service planning and design of your wedding from the engagement party, bridal shower, and rehearsal dinner to the day-after wedding brunch. We offer stunning golf course settings as well as Muskoka waterfront venues with on-site accommodation. From intimate to grand weddings, we specialize in all cultures and traditions. On-site ceremonies available. To talk to one of our wedding planners, simply call toll free 1-877-622-4196, email greatbanquets@clublink.ca or visit us at myclublinkwedding.ca.

gtA | london | MusKoKA | ottAWA | quebec

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s d n e i r Best F

REAL WEDDINGS

MARIA & ARBER

How did you meet?

Arber and I have been together since the age of 19. I don’t know how to explain it exactly but Arber quickly became my best friend, my confidant, my safe and happy place. I held my breath hoping one day we could become more, not knowing he was hoping for the exact same thing. After 2 years as friends, with my heart in my stomach I finally took the leap and asked him if he’d like to see a movie, he answered without hesitation… YES! That night ended with us talking until the sun came up the next morning, and we both would now admit we knew from that first date that we would one day get married.

Describe the engagement?

Arber and I have been together 7 years now, he proposed November 22, 2014 by the water down at Lakeshore overlooking the city after a Gala we had attended. We would frequently visit this secluded parking lot by the water, where we shared many dinners, stories, and laughs with the most beautiful backdrop imaginable; our city! I remember that day with every vivid detail in mind, it was a cold November evening we had dressed in our

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best outfits we had, this was after all the first gala we had ever attended. After dinner and some dancing Arber had asked if I wanted to drive around town to visit all our favourite date spots, our last one being that lakeshore parking lot. Upon arrival, to our dismay the parking lot had been closed down. We drove down about half a km and there was the most perfect lot with massive and very expensive Yachts, and sailboats all stored away for the impending winter. The gates that night were left open, call it divine intervention, call it fate, we just call it lucky. We entered this lot drove right to the end, and Arber begged me to get out of the vehicle to enjoy the view, he also promised he would hold me to keep me warm, something I would never pass up. And then, it started. He professed all his love and feelings for me, and got down on one knee with tears in his eyes, waiting for my answer. Of course I answered YES! With the same excitement if not more excitement than that first YES on our first date. After many tears, we walked back into the vehicle where he showed me that the entire proposal was videotaped by his cellphone he had mounted for this exact reason. Additionally he videotaped him asking my father for my hand in marriage with all their tears and excitement on that same iPhone. Together with our families we planned a wedding that showcased our love for each other, our love of entertainment, food, music, our cultures and our family. Our night was magical and unforgettable I left marrying my best friend, and my guests left happy. It was all I could have ever dreamed it being, I definitely lived every little girls dream of her perfect wedding.

Wedding Details

PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEOGRAPHY Everlasting Moments - Paunch, Nina, Roxy 905-771-7322 MY WEDDING PLANNERS WERE Events By Carlo - Carlo and Zack Amato 416-994-5346 DJ Dj Emproium - Marco Gismondi 905-850-3176 CEREMONY MUSIC - CELLIST AND VIOLINIST The Alexsandre-ensemble - Alain Bouveir 647-218-1766 DECORATOR Posh Stylings - Nikki 289-597-7674 FLOWERS J’adore Floral - Gianina 416-666-5546 GOWN DESIGNER Allure Bridals bought from Amanda Lina Sposa where they film “ Say Yes To The Dress Canada “ SHOES Badgley Mischka - Kleinfields ACCESSORIES Swarovski Bridal Collection Yorkdale Mall HAIR Kay’s Hair Kathy from Tangled Hair Salon 905-903-0577 MAKEUP Makeup Couture Angela Sousa and her Team of 4 416-856-1342 CAKE Cake Creations by Michele - Michelle Spagnoli 416-220-6990 INVITATIONS Wedding Paper Divas www.weddingpaperdivas.com

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Chateau Le Jardin Event Venue 8440 Highway 27, Woodbridge Tel: 905.851.2200 Toll free: 1.800.533.3009 Fax: 905.851.2292 www.lejardin.com chateaulejardinVenue

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* Expert catering and culinary team featuring Continental cuisine * Features an award-winning decor in a French Chateau setting * Large foyer space features an abundance of natural light, 30â&#x20AC;&#x2122; ceilings, two-way fire place, and walkout to courtyard

* Over 38,000 Square feet of beautifully appointed function space in nine function rooms * Capacity of 1,800 guests * Easy access to all major highways and minutes from Pearson International Airport

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The STONEMILL Inn

Ballroom

271 MERRITT STREET ST. CATHARINES

BALLROOM INQUIRIES 905.680.8300

HOTEL FRONT DESK 905.680.6455 events@stonemillinn.ca

www.stonemillballroom.com

A VENUE LIKE NO OTHER

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Royal Wedding Presenting our newest venue for your dream wedding — the historic Rock Garden!

dewimagery.com

Royal Botanical Gardens is the most popular wedding venue in the region, tailor-made for your wedding in paradise. Be treated like royalty and provide your guests with first-class service. A wedding at Royal Botanical Gardens ensures your special day is the dream wedding you deserve. • Various locations for your ceremony, photography, and reception for 30 up to 300 guests • Our award-winning on-site catering service offers you a diverse selection of menus — packaged or customized • Discounted rates for Fridays and Sundays

Book your Royal Wedding in Paradise Contact us today: 905-527-1158, ext. 232; rentals@rbg.ca; www.rbg.ca

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Weddings by the Water LAKE ONTARIO

WINE COUNTRY

| NIAGARA

4 WINDWARD DR., GRIMSBY, ON L3M 4E8 | 1-877-446-5746 or 905-309-7171 Email: weddings@casablancawineryinn.com w w w. c a s a b l a n c a w i n e r y i n n . c o m

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WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

TO DRONE or NOT to DRONE

rone wedding photography is all the rage right now. Drones are able to capture dynamic and illustrative video and stills that offer a scope and scenic context to your wedding that you or guests just won’t be able to see. Drones are very versatile, allowing for more creative photography. Imagine getting your guests to spell out words on the lawns, form memorable shapes or be organized in other creative ways. Aerial stills can capture a bird’s eye view of emotional moments that would be otherwise impossible to see up close, and they can do it all in one shot. Like a bride hiding with her father out of sight while her groom waits anxiously at the alter in front of hundreds of guests. It also allows the bride and groom to be everywhere and see everything at once, although, after the fact.

1. Not every venue is drone-friendly. It’s not always possible (or safe) to fly a drone indoors, and heavily treed or tented areas are also high on the no-drone list. Also be wary of overhead wires, telephone poles and massive hydro blocks. Outside is best, but aside from aesthetics, not all venues allow drones. Be sure to consult about any drone policy beforehand.

While drone might seem like the perfect addition to your guest list, there are a few things to consider.

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2. Drones shouldn’t do close-ups. This may sound obvious, but aside from being dangerous, they’re also obnoxiously loud. If you’re hoping to get an extremely up-close and personal drone-selfie, check with your provider about the risks. For safety sakes, consider a ground photographer with a height advantage for those.

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Our Place Your History

Hamilton Civic Museums

ationally renowned cultural sites provide distinctive indoor ceremony settings for your special day. Exceptional venues rose from the renewal of ‘outbuildings’ at some of the city’s finest historic sites. Presented in varying styles from the early 1800’s to modern day, each unique space exudes its own charm and appeal. The Coach House at Dundurn - a magnificent Victorian venue built in 1870. The Cock Pit at Dundurn - a classical pavilion crowned by a cupola. The Cellar at Grandview - a little piece of country at the gateway to Stoney Creek. The Stable at Whitehern - a cottage-style retreat in the heart of the city.

Your

Ancaster Old Town Hall - one of the finest pieces of stone architecture in Ancaster.

History Begins Here!

www.hamilton.ca/weddings

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Expansive green spaces, beautiful gardens, captivating landscapes and historic backdrops present charming tranquil settings for your wedding day.

Ancaster Old Town Hall 310 Wilson St. E., Ancaster Phone: 905-648-8144 | fieldcote@hamilton.ca

Battlefield Park Exchange your vows within the rose-bordered veranda of Grandview nestled under the Niagara escarpment and surrounded by acres of forest, parkland and heritage gardens.

Battlefield House Museum & Park 77 King St. W., Stoney Creek Phone: 905-662-8458 | battlefield@hamilton.ca

Whitehern HistoriC Garden Walk down the aisle over a flagstone pathway surrounded by boxwood hedges and spectacular perennial gardens.

Dundurn National Historic Site 610 York Blvd., Hamilton Phone: 905-546-2872 | dundurn@hamilton.ca

Dundurn PARK Say your vows under a canopy of maple trees overlooking beautiful Burlington Bay, with the magnificent Italianate architecture of Dundurn Castle in the background.

Fieldcote Memorial Park & Museum 64 Sulphur Springs Rd., Ancaster Phone: 905-648-8144 | fieldcote@hamilton.ca

Fieldcote Memorial Park Imagine your wedding ceremony in a lovely seven-acre secluded natural oasis surrounded by tall fir trees and award-winning perennial gardens.

Whitehern Historic House & Garden 41 Jackson St. W., Hamilton Phone: 905-546-2018 | whitehern@hamilton.ca

Memories Captured Here!

Historic scenic backdrops for your picture-perfect day.

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Honeymoon, Destination Weddings & Hotels THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by G3 Designs

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10 Honeymoon DESTINATION Weddings 1. ARUBA

If you’re looking for powdery white beaches, near-perfect weather every day of the year, gentle tropical breezes for your non-stop adventures—Aruba is for you. Taking care of their tourists is the Island motto. The crystal-blue waters of the South Caribbean surround Aruba and when you’re tired of lazing on the beach, there’s scuba diving, snorkelling, great windsurfing, and all the other watersports you would expect from a sun-and-sea vacation. Away from the beaches, Aruba is a desert island full of cacti, iguanas, goats, donkeys, strange boulder formations and even the remains of a Spanish gold mine.

2. BAHAMAS

There’s a Bahamian island to match every couple and every inclination, and all framed by a backdrop of peaceful seclusion and natural beauty. With 700 tropical islands to explore, the Bahamas offer a rich history of adventure and for those truly adventurous spirits—you don’t have to stay in one place. With 16 unique wedding experience packages, you’ll be able to declare your love against the pristine beaches and unspoiled beauty of this historical commonwealth nestled into the Atlantic Ocean.

3. CAYMAN ISLANDS

Whether you’re planning a grand, sophisticated church wedding for 200 or an intimate beachfront ceremony for two, the Cayman Islands offer you venue, activities and attractions to make your experience larger than life. All three islands—Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac—provide gorgeous sun-kissed beaches perfect for naturalists and solace-seekers. Easy access to the coral-encrusted summits of underwater mountains make the Cayman Islands an excellent scuba diving and snorkelling destination. The local attitude is quite relaxed and the Caymans offer a barefoot-elegance vibe for every bride and groom.

farm, Turks and Caicos has a commitment to eco-preservation meaning you’ll be able to enjoy unspoiled beaches for years to come.

5. CUBA

The largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba is a colourful and vibrant country with jazz clubs, historic hotels, and spectacular sandy beaches. Enjoy romantic solitude in a dream suite suspended on stilts over a lagoon, or stay in the center of the capital town in the very hotel where the likes of Hemingway once checked in. Sip Mojitos and coffee while indulging in fat Cohiba cigars—in-between bouts of snorkelling, Salsa dancing and Cabaret performances.

6. JAMAICA

With captivating culture and smooth sophistication, Jamaica is a one-stop shop for all your destination wedding needs. Blissfully romantic with unforgettable resorts offering adventure, history, culture and beach. Drop-dead gorgeous settings, sumptuous dining and seductive reggae charm will keep you from ever wanting to leave. Choose your resort, your location and then surrender yourself to an unforgettable experience in paradise.

7. MEXICO 4. TURKS & CAICOS

Turks and Caicos deliver world-famous stretches of uncrowded beaches and vibrant coral reefs. There are seven main islands in the country and about 40 smaller islands and uninhabited cays to explore up close and personal. Made famous for its electric blue waters, incredibly pure white sand and the world’s only Conch

From Tequila and Corona to the Aztecs and Mayans, Mexico caters to couples with over-the-top paradise packages. Easy to love and easy to reach, Mexican resorts offer some of the best sundrenched shores anywhere in the world. Mexico offers a diverse landscape of mountains, deserts, jungles as well as Pacific and Gulf of Mexico beaches. For the historian newlywed explorers, ancient ruins such as Teotihuacán and the Mayan city of Chichén

Itzá are scattered throughout the country, as are Spanish colonial-era towns.

8. ST. LUCIA

The natural beauty of dramatic coastal peaks and breathtaking tranquil bays create the perfect romance for a St. Lucia destination wedding or honeymoon. Whether you want your wedding in a church, on a mountaintop, in a botanical garden, on a beach, in a historical park, or under a cascading water fall—St. Lucia lets you fall in love all over again. Be sure to experience the luxurious spas, a sunset sail of a private beach on a catamaran or hike the rain forest of the lush interior. St. Lucia is a jaw-dropping destination that will fuel your romance every second that your toes are on their soil.

9. ST. MAARTEN

Renowned for its exotic European influence, St. Maarten is a jewel of an island that offers raw passionate indulgence for every couple. Spend lazy afternoons drifting through lagoons on a catamaran or worship the sun next to the warm waves of the Caribbean Sea while live calypso music lulls your senses. Regardless of whether you stay on the Dutch or French side of the island, rent a car and hit the open road for some unforgettable scenery. St. Maarten is all about romantic adventure. You know what they say—the couple that dives, hikes, climbs, ziplines, or swims with giant Manta Rays together—stays together.

10. BARBADOS

The Barbados is an island of song that serenades lovers of all ages with its luxury and relaxation. The natural beauty of the island offers the photographic jackpot for all your wedding and honeymoon adventures. Consider saying “I do” out on a boat, in an old plantation home or at one of the many island resorts. The Barbados offers spectacular destination wedding packages and is rich with experienced wedding coordinators to make sure your big day is a success.

Because you want all of your loved ones to share in your special day. At Homewood Suites by Hilton®, we want your wedding to be just the way you want it. That’s why we have spacious suites with full kitchens and plenty of room — perfect for your bridal party and out-of-town family. You can even bring your pet**. Plus, we offer a free, hot breakfast every morning, our complimentary evening social almost every weeknight* and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. So, whether you’re away for two nights or two weeks, we have everything you need to Be at Home. Homewood Suites Hamilton 40 Bay Street South | Hamilton, ON L8P0B3 905-667-1200

homewoodsuites.com / 1-800-CALL-HOME

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Make-up & Hair, Health & Spas THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by G3 Designs

Creating the perfect look for the perfect day

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Services include Makeup and Hair For: Weddings/Engagements /Stagettes/Bridal Showers/Parties. We also offer Personalized Makeup Lessons by Trula.

making brides beautiful since 1987 (free makeup application for the bride - call for details)

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Experience luxury with the warmest welcome.

ACQUA SALON

Now with two locations to serve you. All in the heart of downtown Guelph.

Acqua Salon

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Acqua Quebec Studio & Retreat 30 Quebec Street

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HAIR AND MAKEUP:

The Dress

s l a s r a e h Re

Much like gown shopping, hair and makeup trials are one of the most important experiences of ensuring you have the perfect look on your wedding day. It can also be a lot of fun to try on different looks. Serving as a sort of dress rehearsal for the big day, pre-wedding appointments with your salon will help you determine not just which unique look is perfect for you, but how long it will take on the big day and also if that particular salon is the right fit for you. Shop around for salons and spas that offer bridal trials weeks in advance. Two to three weeks is best so that the stylists won’t have time to forget the look they created. Some salon and spas may charge you full price for these appointments, while others may offer them at a reduced rate. Either way, work the cost into your budget as it’s definitely worth it. There are many factors that go into achieving your perfect look. Colour palettes, headpieces, hair length, hair texture, and not ev-

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ery style will work for every bride. Your wedding day is not the day to be surprised with a Niki Minaj fluorescent Day-Glo look when you were hoping for a sultry Audrey Hepburn. And it’s better to know ahead of time what a top knot might look like with your unique veil or even if you need a few deep conditioning sessions to achieve the sleek shine of Hollywood glam. If you want lash extensions, they typically last two to three weeks (depending on style and amount) so taking them for a test drive before your big day will help you determine how full you’ll need them. On the day of your trial, go clean. Have your hair washed and dried with no product in it, and have your face free of everything except your daily moisturizer. Most service providers will spend a minimum of one hour with you to ensure your perfect look. This is

the best time for you to share how you want to feel as a bride and also show any images that convey the attitude or look you want to achieve. It’s also a good idea to bring a picture of your gown so the stylist can pull the entire look together. Good communication is key. If you don’t like a look, say so. If the hairstyle feels stiff and uncomfortable, take notes, it will only get worse as the day goes on. The most important thing to remember is that most of us are not supermodels. (No, really, it’s true.) The stylists don’t have magic wands and ripping a look from a model in a magazine and begging the stylist to make you look like that has the potential to set you up for some major disappointment. We all have different skin tones and hair textures and no two faces will look the same with the same makeup style applied. Embrace what makes you unique and let the salon artists bring out your fabulous.

different looks from different salons. Have your bridal team over for a few cocktails and spread the images out for a vote. The makeup and hair trials are an important step to ensuring that everything runs smoothly on your big day. And if it doesn’t, at least you will look fabulous.

Your stylists will work with you to determine your needs and should also be diplomatic when letting you know that your genetics may not be a good match for a particular fashion. But the great thing about trials is that you can go ahead and see for yourself. Walking around for the rest of the day with your tiara bundled into place with a thousand bobby pins is also a great way to see how the style will hold up and how comfortable it will be over time. And really, who doesn’t want to walk their dog through the neighbourhood dolled-up in a tiara? It’s also a great idea to bring along a camera and have some photos taken afterward. The salon can keep an image on file to refresh their memory on the big day. Once you leave, be sure to take more photos in natural light, under fluorescents and even outside after dark. It’s the perfect way to see how that look will carry over into your wedding photography. Having the images will also work well if you can’t decide between

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YOUR WEDDING DAY... The Perfect

e all want to convey that strong, sexy, confident woman we imagine ourselves to be in our wildest dreams. Your wedding day is the perfect motivation to let that woman out. A bride-to-be is inspired to make that happen. Whether you want to lose weight, get fit, eat better, stress less or just feel generally healthier and happier, the day you say yes is the day that a dream came true. Why not keep those good vibes rolling? If you decide to plunge into the healthy lifestyle change, get started at least three to six months before your wedding day. The two most important reasons for starting a healthy lifestyle change with your wedding looming on the horizon are first, to exude confidence when you walk that aisle, and second, for a strong start to a spectacular marriage. Walking down the aisle puts you centre stage in front of all your friends, family, and most importantly, the person you plan to spend all the rest of your days and nights with. Looking and feeling fit and healthy will send your confidence level through the roof. Knowing that you’ve taken an active interest in your own health will put a bounce in your step and a twinkle in your eye. It won’t go unnoticed. As a bride, you’re essentially the belle of the ball. Random strangers will honk, children will stare in awe, and your single friends will bite back pangs of envy. You’ll be wrapped in a bubble of wedding stardom that will float you about your business for the entire day. A healthy bride will have radiant skin, shiny hair, and a strong constitution for dancing the night away. All eyes will be on you and you will soak it all up because you will know that you are rocking that gown, those shoes, and the whole perfect bride look. A healthier lifestyle will also automatically reduce stress boosting your energy levels from the inside out. When you feel good about yourself, it affects your relationship. What better way to start off your marriage then in a physically and emotionally healthy place? The discipline and passion it takes to commit to keeping yourself healthy and happy are the same habits that can be applied to your marriage. Naturally you

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want your marriage to last forever. When you love yourself, it grows your capacity to love others. When you feel good in your own skin it also fuels your playful side and delivers more confidence for a deeper, more satisfying intimate connection with your betrothed. You’ll be the sexy temptress you always imagined yourself to be. Rawr...

Entering into marriage when you are your healthiest is the best gift that you can give to yourself and your partner. All you have to do is say

Making the decision is easy, staying accountable to that decision... not so much. The best way to stick to your realistic health goals is to find yourself a health buddy. If you struggle with self motivation, having someone to answer to pays off a whole lot faster. It’s preferrable if it’s someone that you don’t know too well, but someone who is as passionate to reach his or her goals as you are. Make a commitment to each other. Motivate each other. Remind each other why you want to reach your goals. Add meaning, inspiration and focus to creating new habits and celebrate the wins with each other. Don’t be discouraged if you slip up, but understand what drives the subconscious need to sabotage and try to stay ahead of it. Remind yourself of the ultimate end game, a stronger, healthier you, but stay focused on the tasks at hand. Your new life as a married couple will give you a series of ups and down. That’s marriage, that’s life. Those moments are natural, and they are also much more manageable if your marriage got off to a good, healthy start. Give that to yourself. Once mind, body and soul are given the attention they deserve, you will begin to change the way you think and feel about yourself. Now is the perfect time to create a plan for living a healthy lifestyle and what that means to you. Do your research, see your doctor for a physical assessment and lean on a professional trainer or life stylist if you need to. Join adventure groups, ride your bike, take long walks together, or become a vegetable guru in the kitchen. There’s a whole wide healthy world out there— grab it by the horns.

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Tuxedo, Suits, Stag & Stagettes THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by G3 Designs

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Sail the Toronto Harbour

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Gift Registry & Specialty Services THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by G3 Designs

continued from page 29 3. There is no audio. Yeah, sure, your photographer will likely jazz it up with a soundtrack of your choosing, but you won’t hear the nuptials, speeches or anything else coming from your wedding party or guests. 4. Drones can’t fly in bad weather. Drones are not toys. They’re remote controlled quadcopters with powerful cameras. They’re not waterproof, and they can’t fly in high winds. Your drone service provider will determine if your sky-bound photos will be grounded on the day of your wedding based on any threat of precipitation or wind. Nobody wants a drone falling from the sky and guests running for cover. The good news is that drones can fly in cold weather. 5. Listen to the Drone Pilot. They are the folks with the experience, established safety plan, extensive knowledge of their equipment and have probably gained close coordination with the venue management. Don’t argue with the pilot if they deem something a safety risk.

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6. Make the impossible, possible. Take advantage of the venue. Have your ground photographer collaborate with the drone pilot so that everyone knows the plan and they are all on the same page. Some aerial shots take time to set up. Not all images are shot from really high altitudes. Higher is not always better. Expect angles and posing for some interesting arrangements. 7. Expect additional charges. If your wedding photographer offers drone, it will be in addition to the photo package you negotiate. Some may offer by the hour fees while others will include a package price. Shop around for competitive rates and high quality. If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, consider hiring a drone to capture the epic grandeur of your moments. Sprawling landscapes or cityscapes along with your guests in their entirety create a contrast between the intimacy of personal moments and the rolling landscape that make for spectacular shots. Adding a drone to your wedding list, even if you’re planning to elope, is a decision you likely won’t regret. This isn’t plain old wedding photography, it’s next-level wedding cinematography.

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ONE TEAM, ONE DAY, ONE COVER:

behind the scenes with

It was a picture-perfect Monday in mid-August. The weather was warm, but not too warm, and there was a delicious breeze off the lake to offset the lingering summer humidity. The team was already deep into site prep when I arrived. Megan Martin, the on-site event coordinator (and your wedding BFF) at Sarcoa Restaurant, who offered their event space to us for the photo shoot, was all-smiles. Literally, all smiles, all the time. Megan loves to work with brides, even models dressed up as brides. She loves the challenge of not knowing what each bride will be like until that bride walks through the front door. Will they go completely traditional or will they want a pop-up taco stand propped up somewhere next to Uncle Frank? Megan is happiest when accommodating couples requests on their big day and has yet to say no to a bride. Someone, please surprise her with something really, really bizarre and extravagant.

This year we put together another dream team for the 2017 cover shoot of The Bridal Guide Magazine. We have an incredible calibre of partner vendors and everyone came together with great care and consideration to build us the best cover yet. The results speak for themselves, but if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like behind-the-scenes at a cover shoot with The Bridal Guide—read on. Our vendors opened up about what it was like to be part of our bridal shoot team.

Let me tell you the story of our cover.

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Sarcoa Restaurant is a hidden gem of a venue for weddings. Nestled into the Hamilton harbour on a dead-end street, it can accommodate 20-60 people inside the private rooms or 20-200 people, spread out to include the gorgeous waterfront patio. Did I mention the ample free parking? All the food is made in-house and exquisitely plated. I know this first-hand as the Chef spoiled us all day long. This is a very, very tough job. The decor team worked together like a welloiled machine. They built the story of our nautical theme with critical eyes—like painters musing over every deliberate and metic-

ulous brush stroke of their painting. They were fascinating to watch. Susan Clark, owner of Ettridges Luxury Rental and Event Design, is passionate about creating custom pieces. She loves the challenge of delivering vision and has a keen understanding of space, composition and scale. She is an endless resource of design and her creativity is magical. Nicholas Smith, owner of Opening Night Flowers, is an award-winning floral designer who approaches each project with a critical eye and a delicate, detailed artistry. Nicholas displays an innate understanding of elegance and sophistication and knows where every petal, stem and bloom is at all times. While the decor team ramped up the wow-factor on the backdrop, the salon and spa team bustled around our gorgeous bride model, Christine, who was the pinnacle of professional patience as the stylists and makeup artist fussed, primped and preened until she was powerfully cover ready. Pina Marfisi, owner of Acqua Salon, studied the art of hair design all over North America and Europe and has brought more than 20 years of that incredible experience to The Bridal Guide cover shoot. Pina’s expertise in the latest trends and styles has made her well-respected hairstyling royalty in local communities as well as among international competitions for stylist design. And I picked her bobby pins up off the floor. Yeah, that’s right. Trula Pissas, owner of Montana, the Art of Makeup and Hair, (and our Associate Publisher of The Bridal Guide) delivered a stunning natural makeup on the model— perfectly applied by the steady hand of a true artist. Trula’s 30 years of bridal experience has given her an intuitive eye. Her technique and choice of colour palette enhanced the natural beauty of the model with just enough edgy depth for the photography. It was the beautiful leading the beautiful. I sat across from them and ate an entire plate of pastries in some sort of beauty-induced fit.

she shops them all over the world. She brings back unique and exclusive pieces for Ontario brides in order to turn their dreams into reality. At this point, my bride-y senses started tingling. Maybe I’ll just try on one... As the model changed into a gown, the technical team readied their equipment and scoped out positions. Brent Storm, owner of Bright Sky Weddings, had been busy piloting a drone around the venue and was gearing up for the indoor video shots. For such a naturally talented and award-winning videographer and cinematographer—he is a genuinely kind, laid back and unassuming individual. Although, he does live in Hawaii half the year. Brent loves the modern, clean feel of wedding cinematography and focuses his talent on delivering high quality video at affordable rates. He and Mike Farkas, owner of G3 Designs Photography, worked seamlessly to ensure the best possible end-results for our cover. They hustled about like stealthy ninjas grabbing all the details of the day (and night) that might otherwise go unnoticed. Except for me eating pastries, of course. Mike is a spirited photographer who brings big personality and a lot of fun to his work. He prides himself on an edgy, non-standard style that tells an honest and gritty story. He is always humbled to be able to document and celebrate the best moments of someone’s life. His love for wedding photography even extends into big sweaty reception hugs. You know the ones I’m talking about. This team of artists, storytellers and consummate professionals came together for one full day to produce the stunning cover of a nautical bridal story that you now hold in your hands. It’s a beautiful story. As the Editor, my job is to tell a different kind of story. It’s to see the whole truth behind the cover photo. It’s to see each moving member as part of the whole, and to tell you, my darling bride-to-be, how wonderful these stories can be. - Catherine Thorpe

Not far away from the flurry of hair and makeup, two gorgeous wedding gowns stood steadfast—waiting for their moment to shine. Michèle Gray, owner of Crème Couture (and these gowns) loves her job and it’s not difficult to see why. She is in the business of granting wishes, like a fairy godmother. She caters to the big bride dreams of little girls. She shops for memorable, fashion-forward gowns and custom jewellery for those dreams—and

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Planners & Officiants THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by G3 Designs

Cathy Davis & Company Your Officiant Team Professional, Customizable, Meaningful Ceremonies visit us at www.cathydavisandcompany.com

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6 TIPS

to REDUCING your Wedding FOOTPRINT

In an increasingly eco-conscious world, many people are opting to go a little more green in their daily lives. Recycling plastics and paper, using less aerosol, and driving a little less are just a few of the ways we’ve tried to protect our environment. If you’re of the same mindset, there are ways you can make your wedding eco-friendly too! The amount of paper and waste created in just one wedding causes a sizeable carbon footprint; just think about the invitations, programs and flowers that are suddenly trash the next day. By planning upfront and being slightly more resourceful, you can reduce the size of your ecological footprint without reducing the beauty of your special day.

HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS TO GET YOU STARTED.

1. WHEREVER POSSIBLE, DON’T BUY NEW

When buying a piece of jewellery for your wedding day, jewellers will often use new and unrefined materials to create you something special. While there’s nothing wrong with wanting something new, why not get in on the recycling spirit and choose something that’s made with recycled or repurposed materials? Re-work an old ring or reuse metal from serving platters and gems from old pieces of jewellery… anything works!

The rustic DIY centerpiece craze not only adds vintage charm to your wedding, but it’s also a brilliant trend to reduce your overall wedding footprint. Instead of buying brand new centerpieces, set out on an adventure of antiquing. Choose hand-me-downs from relatives, friends, second-hand stores, and garage sales for an eclectic and vintage charm. Don’t worry too much about finding more than one of the same thing – try matching centerpieces through theme rather than using identical items.

2. GO VINTAGE

Visit some vintage bridal shops or ask relatives if they’d be willing to part with old accessories or gowns. Not only will it be less out of your pocket, but also borrowing something beautiful from someone you love can be a great way to keep them involved and part of the ceremony. Not to mention, it’s a great way to keep the environment just a little greener! Continued on 76

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Your Wedding Planning & Design Specialists

Your Wedding Is Without A Doubt One Of The Biggest Milestone Events Of Your Life.

RECEPTION COORDINATOR • FULL DAY COORDINATOR • FULL WEDDING COORDINATION • WEDDING DECOR

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3. GO PAPERLESS

The amount of paper consumed for a wedding can really stack up so going paperless is a great way to be eco-friendly and actually make a difference. Instead of paper invitations, opt for something unique. A creative use of audio/video can help you deliver a fun, personal and engaging invitation across the internet. (You may want to ask Grandma and Grandpa in person though.) Most

guests don’t keep invitations as mementos, and even more still won’t think to put it in the recycling bin—even if it’s printed on recycled paper. (All that personal information, geesh.) Instead of programs, consider having a board up with all the info guests need.

4. BUY LOCAL AND IN SEASON

There has been a recent push to go local and in season, which cuts down on the financial costs of importing goods. Less import means less transport which translates to less carbon emissions. When looking for flowers and catering, ask your vendors what is fresh, what’s in-season, and where they source their materials. Look into whether your caterer is committed to recycling their used cans, bottles and cartons and whether leftover food is composted or even donated. There are many environmentally friendly vendors out there, so you will definitely have several options to choose from.

5. PAY IT FORWARD

Instead of giving wedding favours, consider making donations to a charity of their choice. Put up a chalkboard with various local charities in columns and have guests write their names in the column of their choice. While favours are a nice trinket for your guests to remember your wedding by, most will be lost or thrown out by the end of the next week. As an added bonus, you start your married life together with good karma. It could be the first (or second) charitable act you perform together as newlyweds, and donating your wedding flowers is completely doable. Your bridal bouquet, bridesmaids bouquets, ceremony displays and even the floral table arrangements can all be recycled instead of ending up in a dumpster behind your wedding venue. Many local non-profit organizations (or those that serve the terminally ill, infirm or elderly) will take your donations happily. There are even some specialty florists and/or event planners that will do all of this for you, but if yours doesn’t, con-

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sider contacting your local hospice, retirement homes, women’s shelters, and hospitals in advance to ask about arrangements for donations.

6. THE EXIT WEDDING TOSS

Many couples want the “confetti” experience, yet don’t want the cleanup or environmental risks associated with it. Some couples have substituted rice with birdseed because it was believed that if birds ate uncooked rice they would somehow choke or implode. There is no actual evidence to support this (as many frustrated farmers will tell you), but the damage from this myth had already been done. Bubbles offer an extremely popular option, however, spilled bottles can provide dangerously slick surfaces and depending on the concentration of the soap, they could also stain your wedding dress. Another option for the more environmentally conscious couple is to use eco-confetti, affectionately referred to as ecofetti. There are several options from a snowflake-like confetti to cut strips of eco-friendly paper in a plethora of colours. These options are biodegradable, water-soluble and causes zero harm to animals. (It typically dissolves at the first rain.) Another new trend is to use flower petals. (It also doesn’t hurt if you take one in the eye.) Rose petals, lavender, wildflowers, daisies... anything you can get your hands on or that match your theme. Using small buckets or eco-paper cones can also keep costs down.

Floral & DÃ©cor THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by G3 Designs

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REAL WEDDINGS

Katherine Cameron

Niagara Falls Aug. 28, 2016

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......................................

My True Love The Meeting

They met at a photo shoot. Cameron is a professional photographer and Katherine came to him to capture a milestone in her life. She was winning her battle with breast cancer, had just finished chemotherapy, and wanted to capture this moment showing just how far she had come. She was vibrant and full of life and he was in awe. The sparks between them flew.

The Engagement

Nine months after their first date (and two rounds of radiation, another major surgery and countless other hurdles later) they set off on their first vacation together. Cuba experienced the worst rains in over forty years during the trip, but on an empty, stormy beach and in front of an old, rustic lifeguard shack, Cameron proposed. Of course, Katherine said yes!

The Planning

The Old Stone Inn Boutique Hotel in Niagara Falls was a special place for them. They fell in love with its rustic and historical charm during a birthday dinner the previous year. It was the perfect place for their wedding and took elopement immediately off the table. With help from Abbie Swiergosz, the Events Specialist of the hotel, the planning got down to serious business. As an extremely creative and handy couple, they crafted all of the decorations themselves. They let the venue inspire their designs and spent the entire summer together planning and building. Golden pillars were constructed and painted in their garage. Textured hurricane candle holders adorned with tiny silk flowers were ringed together. Countless hours were spent crafting paper flowers, and learning how to make gum paste for the wedding cake. They even picked their own berries to make their Love Jam preserve favours for the guests. Their excitement grew with each day that passed.

The Wedding

They had invited a small gathering of family and friends for their quaint setting. Katherine had ironed his shirt the day before only for them to realize they’d left it some 200kms away. With new shirt in hand, and Abbie to the rescue with wedding rings, they became husband and wife. The guests gathered in the historic 1904 Lounge to mingle before dinner. The Earl Grey Room was the setting for a magnificent gourmet dinner that was laid out on a harvest table suitable for royalty. One table, intimate conversation, a sublime meal. After dinner, they invaded Niagara Falls for fireworks, a laser show, a brew pub serenade, and all of Clifton Hill’s amusements including dinosaur mini golf. Katherine awed the tourists in her wedding gown and posed for pictures all night like a celebrity. It was the perfect day.

The Details

.............................................................................................. VENUE: Old Stone Inn Boutique Hotel, 6080 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls, ON CEREMONY LOCATION: Mill Room, Old Stone Inn COCKTAILS: The 1904 Lounge, Old Stone Inn DINNER: The Earl Grey Room, Old Stone Inn AFTER PARTY: Like tourists; Niagara Falls-fireworks & laser show; Clifton Hill WEDDING PLANNER: Katherine herself with Abbie Swiergosz PHOTOGRAPHER: Kelly Kacor, Oshawa TUXEDO: Moores

WEDDING GOWN DESIGNER: Maggie Sottero HAIR: Katherine’s, she grew it out just for the wedding EXTENSIONS: Andrea Berrie, Hair Flair Extensions, Oakville MAKE-UP: Katherine BOUQUET: The Little Flower Shop, Bowmanville DECOR: Styled & Handmade by Katherine CAKE: Designed by Katherine, prepared by Criveller Cakes, Niagara Falls WEDDING FAVOURS: Strawberry “Love Jam” preserves by Katherine www.thebridalguide.ca - P.85

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Photos: Phat Dog Visuals

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Photography & Videography THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by G3 Designs

Limited spots available. Please call 1 (905) 401-8771 or visit G3designs.ca to reserve our team of highly skilled photographers and make your special day complete.

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It’s the moment you’ve always dreamed of.

Let us capture it.

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Cakes & Invitations THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by G3 Designs

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Jordana Crystal

Dundas, Ontario July 9, 2016

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.................................................................

REAL WEDDINGS

Our Love...Our Day

Crystal and Jordana got engaged in the winter of 2014 knowing that their wedding in 2016 would mark their 10th anniversary of their relationship. They wanted to keep things intimate and simple and decided on a small cocktail party with 60 of their closest friends and family members.

Dresses

With a black and white theme, the brides-to-be wanted their dresses to coordinate in some way, or have a similar shape. But since both women are so different style-wise, they knew two white traditional gowns just wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going to happen. Crystal went more traditional with a Pronovias gown, paired with glittered heels. Jordana opted for an edgy black gown from Monique Lhuillier, and paired that with black strap heels.

The Venue

After a memorable Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day date at Quatrefoil Restaurant, they knew the fantastic food, amazing staff as well as the patio and garden space would be the perfect venue for their wedding.

The Big Day

Before they became Mrs. and Mrs., they broke with all traditions and took a quaint Saturday afternoon stroll in downtown Dundas in their wedding gowns. Then it was off to the beautiful Carnegie Gallery for some pre-wedding pictures. Before they arrived at the restaurant, family and friends had already gathered and were waving their colourful wedding favour fans. For the ceremony, their matching bouquets were simple white and cream flowers with a loose and natural look. The mood for the ceremony was set with jazz and classics from the Jonathan Black trio of Dundas, ON. In the spirit of simplicity, each bride had one family member as a bridesmaid. As they came down the aisle, Jordanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dress got caught in the garden entrance and Crystal nearly went down trying to maneuver the cobblestones in her heels. They had a good laugh and then went on to become each others wife. Each of them remembered the advice of their family to pay special attention to all the details and soak up every second of this day with each other. The wedding celebration started with a champagne toast to welcome friends and family that had come from all over Canada and abroad. Speeches were heart-felt and a great deal of fun. Tears of laughter erupted as each family welcomed the brides into their respective families in their own particular ways. As food lovers, the menu was a big part of their special day. Drinks, and Canapes (with Herbed Goat Cheese, Oven-Dried Tomato, Garlic Crostini and Broccoli & Smoked Cheddar Arancini, and Poached Shrimp) to start, and then small plates of Seared Bay Scallop, Spinach Risotto, Ricotta Gnocchi and Mini Roast Beef Sandwiches followed. A Midnight cake with vanilla almond cream and fresh raspberries finished off the night.

LOCATION: Dundas Ontario (16 Syndenham Road) PHOTOGRAPHER: Moussa Faddoul, fotoreflection VENUE: Quatrefoil Restaurant, 16 Syndenham Road, Dundas Art Gallery CEREMONY LOCATION: Dundas, Ontario WEDDING GOWN DESIGNER/ VENDOR: White Gown: Pronovias, Black Gown: Monique Lhuillier JEWELERY/SHOES/ACCESSORIES: Betsey Johnson (silver), BCBG (black strap heels) HAIR: Marco Stefano Designs, Oakville FLORAL: Flowers by the Dozen of Burlington, Ontario DECORE RENTAL: Quatrefoil Restaurant, Dundas Art Gallery CAKE: Quatrefoil Restaurant www.thebridalguide.ca - P.109

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matilyn LIFE CUSTOMIZED

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Gowns, Bridesmaids, Mother of the Bride & Accessories THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by G3 Designs

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Alterations on premises at a reasonable price. Get your gown pressed & steamed at no extra charge.

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REAL WEDDINGS

KAMILA & JUSTIN Thornhill, ON June 11, 2016

The Wedding Day

This traditional wedding was shot at Heintzman House, an historical mansion located in the Thornhill area of greater Toronto. The venue hosts weddings, corporate and community events. It boasts a classical revival style porch, highlighting luxurious portico pillars. With a combination of elegant, Georgian and Regency style architecture, this old country mansion was an ideal choice in venue for this classic, sophisticated wedding. We shot Kamila’s step, by step transformation process from her arrival at Heintzman House to wedding ready, beautiful bride. The wedding party was elegantly dressed–all matching, in silky royal purple gowns and light grey suits with matching purple accents. This quiet but intimate ceremony was highly romantic, with a warm reception. Toasts were made, speeches and prayers exchanged. Their words were sweet and touching, filled with intimate stories, memories and laughter–wishing the couple well as they departed on their journey together through life. During the reception they joined the rest of the guests for a touching

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moment; the entire hall broke out into song to honor the happy couple, as a marker of their arrival into married life, wishing them well with a warm welcome. We love the couple’s sparkler photos. There’s something magical about sparklers. How they light up the night, sweep a smile across everyone’s faces. We love how the simple ignition of the hissing flames at dusk sparks laughter, a childlike sense of wonder. How they capture joy like magic and bring people together in this shared moment in time, lit up by ceremonial fire. These photos will surely spark many more smiles over generations for years to come. Kamila and Justin were both radiating with happiness, smiling from ear to ear throughout the entire ceremony; it was clear from their glowing smiles and the expression in their eyes that it was a day not to be forgotten. All of the guests–including our crew had a marvelous time.

Dream Team

Cake: Omi’s Sweet n Treats Facebook Link: www.facebook.com/omissweettreats Transportation: A Roll’s Choice Livery www.arollschoice.com Bridal Gown: Bridal Fashion Fraire bridalfashionfraire.com Bridesmaid Gowns: Henkaa www.henkaa.com Décor (Linens/Chair covers): Décor-Rent www.decor-rent.com Florals: Treasured Moments Flowers & Gifts www.tmfloraldesigns.com Hair Stylist: Hair Spectrum Instagram Link: www.instagram.com/hairspectrum Make-Up Stylist: Afia Debra Instagram Link: www.instagram.com/lipstickchic101 Venue: Heintzman House www.heintzmanhouse.ca Photography: Redwood Studio www.redwoodstudio.ca

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HOW TO

Write

YOUR OWN

Vows

So, you want to write your own vows? The task can seem daunting, but writing your own vows—properly—can make your wedding ceremony as special as possible. Personal vows are a glimpse into the reality of your relationship and your unique take on love. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, the Bridal Guide has a quick and easy 5-step guide to writing your own vows. STEP 1: Do you want to write them together or separately? If you write them together, you can collaborate to make them cohesive. If you write them separately, you can surprise your partner and get a genuine reaction at the ceremony. (We vote for the latter option!) If you decide to write them independently, perhaps you could come up with a rough structure together and fill in your own blanks. STEP 2: Agree on a time length or word count for both of your vows. This isn’t a competition! Your ceremony will flow smoothly if your vows are roughly the same length. Neither one of you will feel bad for having written too much or too little—and remember, it’s about quality, not quantity. STEP 3: Create a rough draft that answers some of these questions:  • How/when did you meet or fall in love?  • What do you hope for in this marriage?  • What do you promise to bring to this marriage?  • What makes your partner your true love?  • Will anything change about your relationship with marriage/in the future? How will you embrace that? STEP 4: Add personal touches; allude to your partners interests or habits; make a quick inside joke, etc. Adding these little personal accents will make your vows touching, heart-warming, and possibly even a little funny—and that’s a good thing! This is the step that will let all of your guests have a peek at your true love and special bond. STEP 5: Practice and memorize! Memorizing your vows will be a better choice than reading them from a cue card. This will allow you to look your partner in the eyes, have a full emotional mo-

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ment, and take in everything for an amazing memory. If you’re worried about fumbling over some words or forgetting a sentence, just make sure you practice reciting them. Remember to mean what you say, speak from the heart, and breathe. Good luck!

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SHOPPING THE GOWN

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White Which

Right?

Wedding dress shopping is a rite of passage for every bride-tobe. It’s the ultimate search for the perfect dress and that can be an exciting adventure. Remembering that our tastes are our own, and that we all have different personalities, likes, dislikes, body types and ideas about what we consider perfection is the best way to embark on that adventure. Knowing what looks good on you is the best place to begin. Start with a salon appointment to understand the options that are available to you for your preliminary gown montage. If possible, book an appointment during the week, or early on the weekend for the least amount of salon distraction. Plan for about ninety minutes per appointment and consider booking no more than two or three appointments per day. Gown fatigue is real, any more than that and you can actually begin to over-saturate your senses, and you won’t remember anything you’ve tried on. Come prepared with images that show which styles that draw you in. If you’re open to any style, bring images that set a mood, shape or attitude so that the gown consultant will know which range to pull for you. If you’re going to the beach, or want something contemporary or romantic—this is key information for the consultant. Some bride-to-be’s bring an entire entourage of folks with them. We suggest bringing no more than two or three people. Too many opinions can make it difficult for you to express your own. A couple of important opinions are enough to give you validation for decisions or honest feedback in choices. Once you have your appointment booked and you walk through the doors of the salon, clear your mind of any and all precon-

ceived gown ideas you might have. Keeping an open mind to any and all styles is paramount to finding the perfect gown for you. Consultants know that more often than not, brides end up walking away with a dress that looks nothing like the images they came in with. Gowns fit differently than other dresses and styles that don’t normally flatter your figure may be magnificent on you in a wedding gown. The thought of a princess gown might make you cringe now, but put it on anyway. It may surprise you that your rock and roll goddess vibe will still show through and you’ll look nothing like a Disney character. Dresses also don’t look the same on a hanger as they do on your body. Hangers don’t show your curves, the material can’t hug and flow the way it will once it’s on your body. Don’t discount any style until you’ve had it fitted on your figure. Understand gown-speak. Knowing the various silhouettes and neckline names can help communication with bridal staff to ensure they offer you options that you know you’ll love. Brightly-coloured gowns are definitely trending and to be considered if you’re looking at a contemporary feel, but don’t discount a good old-fashioned white dress. The white wedding dress is traditionally synonymous with marriage. But white is never just white. There are hundreds of shades for you to choose from. Most gowns don’t even come in a pure white, as that doesn’t generally flatter skin tones. Diamond white, also known as silk white, is a natural creamy white and is one of the most popular shades as it looks great with most complexions. Ivory comes in a light, medium and dark, and also varies from designer to designer. The light Ivory is usually the most universally flattering, but if you’re pale—the medium to dark can provide a dreamy contrast that will brighten your skin. All shades will offer a different undertone from yellow, to pink to blue and can also vary by designer. Make sure you try a few different shades to find what looks best with your skin tone and colouring. It’s also important to ask for a clean or new colour fabric swatch if you find a shade in a dress that you love. Some of the gowns in the salon have been tried on many times and may have lost a bit of their natural brilliance. Even one shade off can make a big difference to your overall look.

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