The Bridal Guide 2016 by The Bridal Guide

Editor’s Letter

Welcome to the 2016 edition of The Bridal Guide Magazine! I’m a details kind of girl. As long as I plan accordingly and consider all the details, then I eliminate any chance for regret and laying about (on my fainting couch) agonizing over the, “If I had to do it all over again... “ conversation with myself. Planning a wedding is a wondrous, exciting, all-consuming affair. Even if at moments it seems mind-numbingly stressful, it’s a good kind of stressful. (Hindsight, my dears.) The wedding is the day that all the details come together to create the start of a magical chapter in your life—the marriage you’ve been daydreaming about. It doesn’t matter if you’re planning a quiet affair with just the two of you, jet-setting off to a sunny destination for beach-inspired nuptials, or hosting the wedding gala of the century in the hub of bright lights and big city—there are going to be details, and lots of them. We want you to revel in those details. Linger from one to the next. Let the anticipation of your big day be playful, heart-warming and wide-open. 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. We even have the organization of your details covered with our exclusive Bridal Planner included in the magazine. It’s the perfect size to carry around everywhere, as one never knows when inspiration will strike. (That’s part of the fun, no?) Consider us part of your wedding planning team—part of the squad. Share your stories, inspiration, fears, questions and quirks with us on our website, through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or send me a note to editor@thebridalguide.ca. We love to blog about real people with real stories and I hope that this year it will be you. From all of us here at The Bridal Guide magazine, we wish you a fantastic year of details, excitement and happy-ever-after. Catherine Thorpe

cover credits - 2016 Cover photography and all tab pages: Location: Edgewater Manor Photographer: M & M Photography Videographer: Bright Sky Wedding Designs Gown: Sposaitalia Couturier Headpiece and Earrings by: Feather your World Flowers: The Watering Can Flower Market Makeup: Trendie On Site Hair & Makeup Hair: Backstage Hair Salon Model: Bree Leigh from Bombshells Exclusives 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

theBridalGuide.ca

Editor Catherine Thorpe editor@thebridalguide.ca Publisher Joe Plati joe@thebridalguide.ca Associate Publisher Trula Pissas trula@thebridalguide.ca Marketing Director Michael Beaune michael@bamboomarketing.ca Art Director Judy MacWilliams judy@bamboomarketing.ca

www.allurestudio.ca

Publisher’s Message Wedding trends change and nuptials evolve, however, The Bridal Guide stays consistent. Our goals have always been to produce the ultimate wedding planning magazine and the single most valuable resource for brides and grooms. In this issue, you’ll find the best dresses, flowers and pages filled with ideas from venues to décor in order to inspire you while planning. It’s not just about the magazine, we’ve relaunched our website to offer real weddings, hot gown photos and a detailed vendor list to help you live your dream wedding day. Get inspired by our blog posts that feature everything from Honeymoons & Destinations, DIY tips and advice, to the latest in Wedding news. This is a very exciting time; it’s about planning your wedding and planning your future. We’re excited to help inspire you and be part of your special day. Don’t forget to visit our website www.thebridalguide.ca and enter to win the Ultimate One day Honeymoon contest valued at $3800 and provided by Wine Tours Toronto, Gone Sailing Adventures and The Bridal Guide. Happy Planning! Joe Plati Publisher Trula Pissas Associate Publisher

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Wedding Décor Trends for 2016

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One-Of-A-Kind Details

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2016 Hottest Gowns

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10 Honeymoon Destinations

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Love, Laughter & Happy-Ever-After

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Wedding Trends for 2016

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How to Write Your own Vows

Categories • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Banquet Halls & Venues Hotels & Limousines Makeup & Hair, Health & Spas Cakes, Floral, Décor & Specialty Services Gowns, Bridesmaids & Mother of the Bride DJ’s, Entertainment, Stags & Stagettes Photography & Video, Honeymoons & Destination Weddings Tuxedos & Mens Formalwear Jewellery, Accessories, Shoes & Invitations Wedding Planners, Officiants, Gifts & Registry Real Estate, Finance & Insurance Bridal Shows Bridal Planner

*All tabbed sections are colour coded. theBridalGuide.ca

WEDDING DÉCOR Over the years, we’ve watched trends come and go, and then come back again. We’ve seen traditional, vintage, full-on theme and of course, some seriously over-the-top offbeat pandemonium. As weddings are not a one-size-fits-all affair, neither can the décor afford to be. The DIY bride remains the top trend-setter for just about all things wedding. And with Brides at the helm, it’s an anything goes kind of year. And that, my pretties, is why we declare the 2016 wedding décor trends as the year of the Bride. With Brides setting the trends, it’s important to remember that not everything you think you want is going to transition well from your fantasies to the actual reality. It’s really easy to be carried away with all the fabulous ideas you stumble upon in planning, but all things have and require some balance. The ideas you’re drawn to while thumbing through magazines or Pinterest boards may be the most beautiful, well-structured décor you’ve ever seen, but it may not say anything about who you are as a couple. Finding out last minute that your wedding didn’t come together like you had envisioned is the stuff that regrets are made of. And we can’t have any of that. Planning your wedding décor should be treated a bit like an existential crisis. Think, who am I? What am I drawn to in everyday life? What makes me happy? These types of questions will get to the grit of how your wedding décor is going to come together. Surrounding yourself with things you love will keep your spirits high and the magic flowing. Do you have a favourite comfy sweater? Scarf? Chair? Pillow? Some of these everyday favourite items have inspired the most beautiful weddings we’ve ever seen. A personal favourite of the DIY Bride trends is the non-theme theme of mismatched items. You know those dining room scenes with mismatched chairs? It’s kind of like that. Bright colours or warm, neutral tones, it feels like having high-tea in Grandma’s attic. The mismatch allows for a little freedom, and is also pretty easy on the budget. Keeping one constant will also give a sense of purpose to

theBridalGuide.ca

Trends

FOR 2016

your mismatch. You want to achieve eclectic elegance, and not have your guests feeling like they’ve entered a yard sale. Balance is key. Consider centerpiece flowers in mismatched crystal (or recycled bottles) to allow for a pulled-together, flawless continuity. Another big trend for the year ahead is ensuring the décor is Instagrammable. This inspired #InstaInteriors is almost a subconscious trend. The more time we spend swiping our phones, the more our mind’s eye applies an #instafilter to everything we see in our daily lives. Every corner of the décor must be Instagram worthy. There’s also the term “Rustic Chic” floating around wedding circles and this style of décor is a combination of exactly what it implies. Basic rustic approaches with some added bling. Think barn-board tables adorned with pearls and lace. The subtleties of silver and gold hues also help tie the entire look together. The most important aspect of establishing your wedding décor is ensuring that you don’t compromise the quality of who you are in the details.

BANQUET HALLS & VENUES THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by M & M Photograhy

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Our Place Your History Hamilton Civic Museums

ationally renowned cultural sites provide distinctive indoor 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.

Your

The Stable at Whitehern - a cottage-style retreat in the heart of the city. 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 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 Imagine your wedding ceremony in a lovely seven-acre secluded natural oasis surrounded by tall fir trees and awardwinning perennial gardens.

Memories Captured Here!

Historic scenic backdrops for your picture-perfect day.

Dundurn National Historic Site 610 York Blvd., Hamilton Phone: 905-546-2872 dundurn@hamilton.ca Fieldcote Memorial Park & Museum 64 Sulphur Springs Rd., Ancaster Phone: 905-648-8144 fieldcote@hamilton.ca Whitehern Historic House & Garden 41 Jackson St. W., Hamilton Phone: 905-546-2018 whitehern@hamilton.ca

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Experience Excellence!

Imagine Your Guests… being captivated by the resplendent old world allure of Le Jardin’s architecture and décor, reminiscent of a French Château. Upon arrival you are surrounded by an unmistakable warmth and charm. Your guests are welcomed by a bright, stunning foyer with soaring 30 foot, hand-gilded ceilings, a gorgeous floor-to-ceiling fireplace and walkout to courtyards. Château Le Jardin’s professional service and exquisite cuisine have turned dreams into reality for over 25 years!

8440 Hwy #27 (at Hwy #7) Woodbridge, ON 905.851.2200 • 800.533.3009 www.lejardin.com • inquiry@lejardin.com

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Weddings | Special Events | Seasonal Banquets | Corporate Events

Consultations & Co-Ordination by: Jackie Pahowski Email: events @willodellgolfclub.com Visit: www.willodellgolfclub.com P: 905-295-4653 x 22 C: 289-686-8596

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Teatro Conference & Event Centre offering elegant & modern banquet rooms with private patios for onsite ceremonies. Leave a lasting impression on your guests with our selection of freshly made Canadian, Mediterranean and Indian cuisine. Come and see what food, dedication and passion can offer your wedding!

Photo Credit: Karolina Kuras

Food,

dedication and passion! We also provide offsite catering. 121 Chisholm Drive, Milton, ON L9T 4A6 905.864.8511 www.teatrocentre.ca

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Royal Wedding

Book your Royal Wedding in Paradise Royal Botanical Gardens is the most popular wedding venue in the region, tailor-made for your wedding in paradise. Be treated like royalty. We provide you and your guests with first-class service and pay close attention to every detail ensuring you enjoy the dream wedding you deserve.

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• 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 Contact us today: 905-527-1158, ext. 232; rentals@rbg.ca; www.rbg.ca

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Call today to discuss your special event with one of our experienced consultants PEARSON CONVENTION CENTER 2638 Steeles Avenue East, Brampton Tel: 905.494.0444 Toll free: 1.877.494.1414 Fax: 905.494.0344 www.pearsonconvention.com /pearsonconventioncenter

Ý Six tastefully decorated halls, each with a private bar and green room.

Ý Fine cuisine, international wine selection and white glove service.

Ý Grand colonnade walkways and facility length patios. Ý Capacity of 2000 guests seated. Ý Valet service available upon request.

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wine count ry

GET MARRIED IN

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HOTELS & LIMOUSINES THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by M & M Photograhy

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www.celebritylimousine.ca â&#x20AC;˘ info@celebritylimousine.ca facebook.com/celebritylimo1 Visit our showroom @ 125 Lancing Drive, Hamilton, ON L8W 2Z9

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Makeup & Hair, Health & Spas THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

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YOU AT YOUR MOST BEAUTIFUL On-site Hair and Makeup for Weddings and Special Events. Info@glamgalz.ca @glamgalz_ glamgalz_ GlamGalz Beauty

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www.glamgalz.ca

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Cakes, Floral, DĂŠcor & Specialty Services THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by M & M Photograhy

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special events | corporate functions | weddings home staging | seasonal floral dĂŠcor

416.550.7652 | beata@kaasfloraldesign.com www.kaasfloraldesign.com | www.facebook.com/beata.kaas

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FLORAL DESIGN AND SPECIAL EVENT SERVICES SPECIALIZING IN FRESH FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS

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ettridges.com | 905.319.5665

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18 James Street, St. Catharines ... 905 685 5200 3711 King Street, Vineland ......... 905 562 0088 theBridalGuide.ca

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Our flowers will become your best accessory!

Call 905.527.4127 • Toll Free 1.800.463.4127

www.westdaleﬂorists.net 1041 King Street W (in Westdale) Hamilton, ON L8S 1L6

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One-of-a-kind

Details

The best weddings are the ones where the spirit, style, and essence of the couple to be wed are reflected in all of the details. One may argue that engagements are inconceivably long so that a large chunk of time can be spent searching and planning for those perfect details. Sometimes, however, these details remain elusive. It can be almost impossible to truly capture the essence and uniqueness of every bride and groom. Seriously, what colour of ribbon screams chutzpah? Custom-made items can be the solution. And having something custommade does not automatically mean it’s custom-expensive. Maybe you want a wedding invitation that no one has ever seen before, or perhaps you want to invent a new species of giant paper flower for your bridesmaids to carry. And being custom-made doesn’t have to be entirely from scratch, there is some wiggle room here. Start with the gown. Most brides don’t fit into anything right off-the-rack. Alterations will be made. Why not add a little unique variance to sweeten the bridal gown pot? Take the skirt from one favourite dress and add the sash from another. Have a seamstress take a couple of your favourite things from celebrity dresses and knock them off into one. Most seamstress designers have a great deal of experience working with the imagination of brides and can also offer plenty of suggestions to satisfy any gaps. The bridal jewellery is another great option for customization. Can’t agree on the perfect matching bands that are as unique as your relationship and life-

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style? Put your heads together and design your own. There is no design too intricate and no metal too luxurious to work with. You can also work in family heirlooms. Vintage diamonds can appear larger and more brilliant depending on the setting. A custom jeweller will be able to work with you to give you examples and help you realize your hidden artistic talents. The exquisite design will be a story for your grandchildren. One of the toughest details to brainstorm is how to say “thanks” to all of your guests. The you-can’t-please-everyone-all-the-time comes in to play here. When it comes to wedding favours, think either appropriate longevity or instant gratification—there is no middle ground. You don’t want to clutter their living spaces with a longhorn skull (unless they’re cowboys or archaeologists), a CD of your wedding songs, a personalized golf ball or the dreaded wedding coasters. If you want longevity, consider making your own soaps, or providing scratch/lottery tickets (you just never know) or small bottles of wine. Instant gratification usually means they will put it in their mouth. Chocolate is almost always a winner among guests. For a unique spin, offer a small candy buffet (hello, Bulk Barn?) where guests can fill small sacks with their favourite sweets.

Gowns, Bridesmaids & Mother of the Bride THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

Photography by M & M Photograhy

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Heirlooms Bridal Shoppe

Alterations on premises at a reasonable price.

Get your gown pressed & steamed at no extra charge.

EXPERIENCE THE GREAT SELECTION & SERVICE! 19 King Street West, Dundas ON L9H 1T5 905 628 4555 | info@heirloomsbridal.com | heirloomsbridal.com

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s n w o G t s e ott

2016

Promises and Lace 905.639.1004 www.promisesandlace.ca

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Promises and Lace 905.639.1004 www.promisesandlace.ca

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Sposaitalia 905.856.5556 www.sposaitalia.com

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Sposaitalia 905.856.5556 www.sposaitalia.com

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Jeffery Bridal By Merike 905.388.8080 www.jefferybridalbymerike.com

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Jeffery Bridal By Merike 905.388.8080 www.jefferybridalbymerike.com

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Michelle My Belle 905.689.8111 Â www.michellemybellebridal.ca

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Michelle My Belle 905.689.8111 Â www.michellemybellebridal.ca

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Sheilaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridal 905.308.4532 www.sheilasbridalboutique.com

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Sheilaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bridal 905.308.4532 www.sheilasbridalboutique.com

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Heirlooms Bridal Shoppe 905 628-4555 www.heirloomsbridal.com

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Heirlooms Bridal Shoppe 905 628-4555 www.heirloomsbridal.com

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Notes: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

A dream is a wish your heart makes. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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Photography by M & M Photograhy

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ENTERTAINMENT

ENTERTAINMENT PLAY ON ALL NIGHT LONG.

We’ve earned a reputation for rising to the occasion Our DJs keep the volume up and hands raised weekly at weddings throughout the GTA. In tune with today’s hits and yesterdays classics, Legends Entertainment guarantees great music and a fun night.

DJs

Decor Lighting

Special Effects

MCs

Monogram Lighting

Photo Booths

Audio / Visual

Ambient Uplighting

Interactive Games

888-5-PARTIES 1231 Legends-5.75x8.25-TPWG-full pg ad.indd 1

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888-572-7843 P85

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Finally saying yes to the dress - $5000

Intimate venue and dinner for 150 of your closest friends - $18,750

Having your wedding day sound as good as it looks - Priceless

Your wedding is the most important day of your life. From ceremony to last dance, we will make your wedding day one to remember. Disc Jockeys

Live Musicians

Bands

www.eniproductions.com P86

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Stag & Stagette Lingerie

Workshops

Toys

Lotions Books

2200 Dundas St. East, Mississauga, ON 905-276-5772

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Photography & Video, Honeymoons & Destination Weddings THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

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EVERY MOMENT COUNTS.

Award Winning Wedding Videography www.brightskyweddings.com canada . hawaii . california

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Wedding Photography & Video Our passion, creativity, and tailored approach will ensure every moment of your wedding day is captured beautifully, forever.

redwoodstudio.ca | 905-793-3817 Ad for The Bridal Guide.indd 1

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Tuxedos & Mens Formalwear THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

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n o o m y e n Ho

Destinations 4. COSTA RICA If you can’t decide between adventure and romance, choose Costa Rica. It includes both adventure and relaxation. Imagine yourself transported to a prehistoric earth with unblemished rainforests that hold 5% of the planet’s biodiversity. It’s true—relax in a hammock with 10% of the world’s butterflies lulling you to sleep. (Maybe not all at once though.)

1. ARUBA This happy island is surrounded by the crystal-blue waters of the South Caribbean. If you’re looking for powdery white beaches, great weather yearround, gentle tropical breezes and sharing non-stop adventures—Aruba is for you. Expect brilliant hospitality as the motto of the island is to “take care of our tourists.” 2. BAHAMAS With 700 tropical islands to explore, you don’t have to stay in one place. There’s a Bahamian island to match every couple and every inclination, and all framed by a backdrop of peaceful seclusion and natural beauty. The Bahamas offer a rich history of adventure and, well, “it’s better in the Bahamas.” 3. CAYMAN ISLANDS Coral-encrusted summits of underwater mountains make the Cayman Islands an excellent scuba diving and snorkelling destination. Gorgeous sunkissed beaches are perfect for naturalists and solace-seekers. The local attitude is quite relaxed, and a rumour persists that a bartender known as “Old Judd” from the Wreck Bar & Grill in Rum Point) single-handedly invented the mudslide in the 1950s.

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5. CUBA Cuba is more than Mojitos, coffee and fat Cohiba cigars. It’s a colourful and vibrant country with jazz clubs, historic hotels, and spectacular sandy beaches. Stay in a dream suite suspended on stilts over the lagoon, or stay in the center of the capital town in the very hotel where the likes of Hemingway once checked in. 6. Jamaica Blissfully romantic with unforgettable resorts, Jamaica offers adventure, history, culture and beach. Drop-dead gorgeous settings, sumptuous dining and seductive reggae charm will keep you from ever wanting to leave. Yeahmon!

9. St. Maarten The couple that dives, hikes, climbs, ziplines, or swims with giant Manta Rays together—stays together. 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. St. Maarten is a jewel of an island that offers raw passion to every couple.

7. Mexico Easy to love and easy to reach, Mexican resorts offer some of the best sundrenched shores anywhere in the world. From Tequila and Corona to the Aztecs and Mayans, Mexico caters to couples with over-the-top paradise packages.

10. Spain Passionate, sophisticated and devoted to living the good life, Spain is a vibrant and colourful playground with worldclass museums, top-notch dining, and superb shopping. Spain is also home to some wonderfully fun fiestas and festivals. If somewhere on your bucket list you have a tomato fight with 50,000 people listed—mark your calendar for La Tomatina in August 2016. (What an exciting ‘trash the dress’ photo collage that would make!)

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. Fall in love all over again while taking in the luxurious spas, visiting the lush interior rain forests, marvelling at the towering mountains or dining at sunset on a secluded beach.

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Jewellery, Accessories, Shoes & Invitations THEBRIDALGUIDE.CA

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CUSTOM MADE PIECES

Feather Your World

Fascinators • Bird Cage Veils • Bridal Sashes Flower Crowns • Baby Headbands • Jewellery

416 333 4570

www.featheryourworld.com

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Bridal Jewelry & Accessories

Available At A Passion for Living Wedding Gifts • Wedding Favours • Bridal Party Gifts A Passion for Living can help you discover fabulous jewelry & accessories in our bridal boutique.

ANCASTER 1090 Wilson St. West 905.304.3044

BURLINGTON 2435 Appleby Line 905.331.4477

OAKVILLE 275 Hays Blvd 905.257.0067

Shop online with us for a GIA certified (or equivalent) fine diamond engagement rings, or wedding bands.

Shop Online: apassionforliving.com

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Love, Laughter &

Happy-Ever-After

A good, long-lasting marriage has a solid start. The wedding day marks the very first day of your marriage, and that one day can be very stressful. It’s important to remember to infuse a little fun and laughter into the big day to ease a little of the stress and ensure you start your marriage out capturing the sentiments that will hold your marriage together forever. If you have studied the funny bone of your intended, you may already know exactly how to make them smile. Little (or big) surprises that create laughter are the perfect way to show your partner (and all the witnesses present on your big day) that you don’t take yourself too seriously, and that you’re committed to creating special moments for the duration of your lives together.

Guests love a photo op, and having a photo booth installed is a great way to capture the crazy that you call family and friends. Consider a theme—go old-school Hollywood glamorous or silly cartoon-crazy—the possibilities are endless. Use chalkboard signs to allow guests to create stories. Cardboard cutouts in the shape of speech bubbles are another way to allow guests to create their own signs with personalized messages. Old picture frames are also a great way to squeeze guests into a smaller space, creating some cozy and entertaining photos. But whatever you do, make sure you go heavy on the props. If the budget doesn’t allow for this, consider creating a selfie corner and add an abundance of props there. Be sure to invent a memorable #hashtag for the festivities in order to track on Instagram, Twitter—and yes, even Facebook—to keep the love and laughter flowing in the weeks that follow. Use your imagination to bring a little love, laughter and happy-ever-after into a memorable part of your big day. .

A wedding party roast with slightly embarrassing stories, choreographed dance numbers, flash-mob speeches, and late-night food truck services are awesome, but nothing says funny like a fake moustache in a photo booth. No, really. You can roll your eyes, but this booth creates a ridiculous amount of silly, contagious laughter from even the most stern of chins. You may even need bouncers to get grandpa out of the booth.

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Wedding Trends

for 2016

is on the rise for trends in 2016. Soft, BOHO-inspired, artsy colour that adds imagination and elegance to your look. From bright and bold to the soft understated tones of green, orange and blues, the watercolour palette is an unexpected dose of unique and wondrous surprise that will define your big day. And while you’re contemplating unrivalled colours, consider adding that same intensity of fun colour to your cake. Fresh flower cakes are nothing short of a work of art. And with 2016 trending in as the year of floral, cascading columns of stunning flowers are the perfect touch of outdoor elegance for the modern bride.

While it’s true that wedding styles don’t change too drastically from season to season, there are still some noteworthy trends and details to peek in on for the year ahead—especially if you’re in the midst of planning the details of your own big day. So, what do you have to look forward to? Floral cakes, fluttery feathers and dreamy watercolours are just a few of the anticipated trends for fabulous weddings in 2016. Feathers, you say? Oh yes, feathers are not just for registry pens and the not-soGreat Gatsby wedding theme anymore. In addition to flirty feathered gowns, think fluffy Ostrich feather shrugs, albino peacock feather bouquets, rustic Woodland duck feather boutonnieres, and giant feather banners in your decor. Feathers are so versatile they can offer a wild, eye-catching look or create a soft, subtle elegance to your look. And feathers are natural glam that will fit right in to any colour scheme. While you’re seducing the notion of feathers (and we’re talking about colour themes), the watercolour palette

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A good florist should be able to advise on which flowers might be harmful (if you have specific flowers in mind) but generally any flower sold as an edible garnish is a perfect choice for fresh flowers on your cake—and there are plenty of edibles to choose from. Flowers like roses, gardenia, pansies, poppies, chamomile, violets, hibiscus, honeysuckle, lavender, dandelions, carnations, forgetme-nots, bachelor buttons, and so on and so on. A fresh flower wedding cake is, quite simply, stems and petals above all other cakes.

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Buying your first home?

This could be the biggest decision of your life! ...well, maybe the second biggest decision of your life.

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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

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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 moment, 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! - Lauren Chan

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April

8, 9 & 10, 2016 Enercare Centre Hall C 100 Princesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Blvd. Toronto, ON M6K 3C3

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September 9, 10 & 11, 2016

Metro Toronto Convention Centre, North Building Hall A&B 255 Front St. W. Toronto, ON M5V 3L9

www.canadasbridalshow.com theBridalGuide.ca

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