September 11, 2013 by Black Press Media Group

Weddings

PROMOTIONAL SUPPLEMENT

FALL 2013

Victoria Bridal Exhibition September 15 Pearkes Recreation Centre Page 9

Alternative Reception Sites

Make for a memorable wedding Page 6

Cover photo supplied by: Brawns Photography

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4 Engagement ring shopping guide

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5 Wedding dress silhouettes 6 Explore options with alternative reception sites 7 Vancouver Island Wedding Ring Awards

WEDDINGS BANQUETS

8 Professional makeup artists can add a lot to weddings

at WEST SHORE PARKS & RECREATION

“From start to finish, we really enjoyed our experience. The staff were flexible, allowing us to have a tailor made wedding venue which suited us perfectly. They gave helpful suggestions and worked very hard to make our ideas a reality. Our guests were so impressed with the professionalism and standard of service. As well, everyone was amazed by the gorgeous venue and most delicious food. It is with our greatest approval that we recommend Juan de Fuca Kinsmen Fieldhouse as an excellent wedding venue.“

9 Vancouver Island Bridal Exhibition 13 Don’t overlook importance of wedding day photography 14 Honeymoon packing pointers 15 Popular songs for the mother-son & father-daughter dances 16 Things to consider when choosing a hotel for your guests

Thank you kindly, Lisa and Sean

17 Tips for pre-wedding spa and beauty 18 How your guests can get around 19 Wedding thank-you cards etiquette

Published by

www.westshorerecreation.ca | 250-474-8609

The next special Weddings edition is being planned now. Reserve your space – call Oliver Sommer, Director, Advertising Sales, 250-480-3274 or email osommer@blackpress.ca

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Engagement ring shopping guide

ong before couples stand before an ofﬁciant and say, “I do,” many make another pledge to each other by getting engaged and agreeing to begin a new life together.

You will never forget that first glance from down the aisle, the way your flowers smelled, or that special place that will always be reminiscent of your wedding day. For intimate gatherings or large celebrations, each of our beautiful banquet rooms have access to natural light and décor, while our 192 naturally inspired accommodations are nestled throughout the forested grounds or overlooking the ocean. Tigh-Na-Mara is an all encompassing resort providing the ideal setting for the most beautiful of beginnings.

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In a 2011 survey by from XO Group, Inc., formerly The Knot Inc., the average engagement ring costs Canadians around $5,000. Considering an engagement ring is typically a once-in-a-lifetime purchase, many men say the high cost is warranted and are even willing to ﬁnance the purchase or push their budgets to procure a beautiful ring.

Many engagement rings feature a 1-carat centre stone with some smaller stones surrounding, accounting for a 1.4 total carat weight on average. It can take a groom-to-be around three months to ﬁnd his (and her) ideal ring, sometimes longer. Considering a ring is such a signiﬁcant investment, it pays to have some knowledge in gem selection. Start by answering a few questions

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Having an idea of what you want can help anyone get a better deal, whether one is shopping for a new sofa or an engagement ring. An informed shopper can avoid being taken advantage of or buying something that really isn’t worth the asking price.

The 4 Cs is a good place for shoppers to get started. Various attributes affect the value, quality, and beauty of a diamond. The 4 Cs stand for cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight. The cut refers to the shape of the stone as well as the skill involved

in achieving the shape of the facets so that it reflects the light brilliantly. The colour is designated by the International Gemological Institute. The grading colour in a diamond determines how closely a diamond’s colour approaches colourlessness. The diamond will be assigned a letter grade. The lower the letter in the alphabet, the whiter the stone. Clarity refers to the amount, size, type, and location of internal flaws in a diamond, also known as inclusions. The cost of the diamond increases when there are fewer inclusions in the stone. Finally, the carat weight is the size and weight of the stone. The larger the stone, the more pricey it can be. Another question to ask is which style of ring your girlfriend prefers. Your fiancéeto-be may have a certain setting style and diamond shape preference. It pays to know what she wants, including the type of setting the stone will be encased in. You should also know whether she will be happy with a larger stone that may have some imperfections not easily seen to the naked eye or a smaller, flawless stone. Know your budget

Many expenses are associated with planning a wedding, and some couples may not want to begin their lives together in debt. This may need to be factored in to the decision-making process. You should go to jewelry stores to price out different styles and see how diamonds compare. This way you will have an accurate idea of just how much rings cost.

Carefully consider your options. Having an intimate knowledge of what your girlfriend will want can help you narrow down to something that is reasonable. It also pays to understand a jeweller’s return policy, even if you know what she likes. In the event that the ring doesn’t work out, ﬁnd out if the style can be changed or if you can get a refund or make an exchange.

Imagine... your Special Day at

women with a pear shape might gravitate toward this style. The ballgown style may not be ideal for petite women, as the skirt may overwhelm their ﬁgures. A-line

Another silhouette very forgiving and appropriate for many body types is the A-line gown. A-line cut dresses should be the go-to style for anyone looking to minimize perceived ﬂaws. The cut of the dress will ﬁt to the waist and gradually fan out from the hips to form the outline of an uppercase “A.” When in doubt, A-line gowns are classic, sensible and a favourite among brides.

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Trumpet

Wedding dress silhouettes

Women who prefer something a little more form-fitting may select a trumpet silhouette. This dress is fitted through the body and then the gown flares out at mid-thigh level. Women with taught stomachs and hourglass figures can benefit from this style of gown, but those who do not want anything tight in the hips and thighs will want to select something else.

WeddingBells.ca estimates a bride-to-be will spend around $2,000 on her gown, veil and accessories. Brides often spend

Tea length

Ballgown

A ballgown dress is truly a classic style, evoking images of fairytale princesses. With a ﬁtted bodice and full skirt that ﬂairs at the waist, this silhouette is usually good for all body types. Because the full skirt, typically poofed-up by crinoline, will hide the hips and thighs,

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A bit more ﬁtted than the trumpet, this silhouette is close to the body from the chest down to the knee. The skirt then ﬂares out slightly by the knee. Tall, thin women generally look best in this type of gown.

months, if not years, shoping for the right gown. Finding the right gown means having an understanding of what silhouettes are available and what ﬂatters certain body types. After all, you want to look like the best version of yourself when getting married. Here is a look of some of the common types of gown silhouettes and why choosing each shape might be right for you.

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ew wardrobe decisions are scrutinized as much as a brideto-be’s choice of wedding gown. Finding the perfect gown that ﬂatters the future bride’s ﬁgure while stunning her guests and soon-to-be husband is a labour of love for many brides.

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A balance between a traditional A-line and a more fitted gown, the modified A-line does not flare out as much. But it does flare out enough from the waist to hide areas around the hips and thighs. This is another good choice for a wide array of figures. Brides who do not want a gown that reaches the floor can opt for a tea length dress, on which the skirt generally falls between the ankle and the knee. Sheath

Lean brides who want simplicity in their gowns can opt for a sheath silhouette. The narrow shape of the gown from the neckline to the hem will deﬁnitely accentuate the body shape. Therefore, women who are shy may want to select a different option. Petite women who may be overwhelmed by more fabric can usually wear a sheath gown with success.

Although a bride may have a wedding gown style in mind, it is a good idea to try on a number of different silhouettes to ﬁnd the one that is most ﬂattering. Bridal salon employees are usually well-versed in matching body type to a gown and can prove invaluable when selecting a dress.

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Explore options with alternative reception sites A

wedding can be an expensive endeavor for couples. The cost for a reception venue will vary depending on where the party is held, so couples looking to conserve cash or simply set their party apart can consider some different options.

Instead of booking with the first catering hall they find, couples should comparison shop to find a venue they find affordable and unique to their particular tastes.

A reception venue may charge from less than $100 to several hundred dollars per guest. Couples who opt to do some of the work themselves by renting a space and bringing in their own food or using a private caterer may save a substantial amount of money. In addition, couples who don’t mind forgoing a more traditional setting may find more unique locations to hold their reception. • Farmhouse: For that country appeal, a barn or farmhouse estate can make for the ideal place to hold a casual wedding reception. Farms are typically located on a large piece of land that can easily accommodate a number of guests.

• Botanical gardens: Enjoy the peak foliage of whatever season you are enjoying at the botanical gardens nearest to you. Many gardens offer some sort of wedding package and may contract with an outside caterer to provide everything from sit-down meals to passed appetizers. Couples looking for one-stop-shopping can also combine the ceremony and reception at the gardens for a magical experience amid flowers, trees and more.

• Sports arena: Sports fans may dream of having their wedding on the field of their favourite professional team. Individuals can contact the stadium to find out if they do any private parties. If not, consider a stadium on a more local level, such as a college or high school field. The ambience will be the same, but the more local or smaller venue may be more affordable. • Oceanside: Where there is a beach, there is the opportunity to have a wedding at the seashore. Beach weddings are usually casual affairs, and couples could have more options with regard to food and drinks. • Clubhouse: For those who live in a condominium or a community managed by a homeowner’s association, there may be a clubhouse on the premises. Very often these clubhouses can be rented out for parties. Couples interested in an intimate affair can bring in their own food

and have a low-cost reception close to home.

• Castle or estate: Dreaming of a fairytale wedding? A historical building may make for the perfect backdrop. Certain historical societies may rent out estates and other buildings for weddings. At the very least, couples may be able to have their wedding on the grounds with the impressive home in the background.

Various reception venues can make for a memorable wedding. Couples can explore their options when a more traditional venue is not necessarily their style.

• Boat: Dinner cruises frequently depart during peak sightseeing seasons from various locations. Couples may opt to have their reception aboard a paddle boat or larger cruise liner, and the cost may be on par with a stationary reception venue. • Amusement park: If you want to get hitched at a favourite amusement park, speak with guest services to determine if they have any accommodations for weddings. Thrill seekers may want to tie the knot and then take a ride on a hairraising roller coaster. Guests can dine on traditional foods and a mix of carnival treats.

• At home: Couples who really want to save money can opt to get married right at home. Potluck food and donations of other treats from family members can keep costs down without compromising on the fun factor.

Vancouver Island Wedding Ring Awards 2013 On October 29th at the Victoria Parkside Hotel and Spa, the Wedding Ring will be hosting its first ever Vancouver Island Wedding Awards. The awards will be open to any Vancouver Island based company that has been in legal business operations for at least 2 years, as of September 30th, 2013.

The categories chosen are reflective of the many facets of the wedding industry that can be easily judged based on images. There are so many details that go into making a truly magical wedding day. The categories will represent many different areas of expertise, and a sense of humour has been added to make the awards that much more fun! Give Me That Piece of Cake Award - Best Wedding Cake

Everybody In Award – Best Group Photograph

Watch Out Those Flowers Are Mine Award – Best Overall Florist

Capturing the Reel Moments Award – Best Wedding Videographer

Good Thing We Got Those Tents Award – Best Outdoor Wedding Venue The Weather is So Unpredictable Even in August Award – Best Indoor Wedding Venue Keep Calm and Hire a Wedding Planner Award – Best Wedding Event Planning Don’t Make Me Cry, My Mascara Will Run Award – Best Wedding Makeup Up- do, Down- do Award – Best Wedding Hairstyle I Didn’t Realize That You Could Do That to a Gymnasium Award – Best Wedding Décor Pass the Pen and Paper Award – Best Wedding Stationary Bring On the Bling Award – Best Wedding Accessory Caught in the Moment Award – Best Candid Photograph The Beautiful Couple Award – Best Wedded Duo Photograph It’s All In The Details Award – Best Detail Wedding Photograph

The Total Package Award – Best Overall Wedding Photography All The Forces Combined Award – Best Collaboration/Editorial 2013 Industry Excellence Award

This award was created to recognize new and established wedding vendors who are leaders in their fields, creative in their approach and offer exceptional client service. *2013 Delectable Delightful Dish – Best Hors D’Oeuvre Award Winner *2013 Fragrant Fetching Florals – Best Bridal Bouquet Award Winner

Participants will have the opportunity to vote during the event for their favourite Hors D’Oeuvres and Florals that will be on display. So make sure you go early to take it all in and be a part of the action. If you would like to be a part of this portion of the evening please go to the website and send a message clearly stating which event you would like to participate in. Submissions must be made by September 30th, 2013. For more information go to www. vancouverislandweddingawards.ca

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Professional makeup artists can add a lot to weddings

ave you ever had your makeup professionally applied? Apart from a trial application at a department store makeup counter, many women likely have no experience with professional makeup artists. While one may not hire a makeup artist for everyday events, a wedding is an occasion that often warrants the expertise of a professional.

Many brides-to-be and their attendants book the services of a hairstylist to achieve beautiful wedding day hair, but may not find it necessary to enlist the services of a makeup artist, figuring they can apply makeup effectively enough. But a makeup artist has a wealth of information in makeup application, as well as knowledge of what looks best under the lights and flashes of a camera. For those spending several thousand dollars on professional photography, an investment in a makeup artist can help ensure the faces smiling back from the photos look their best.

Hiring a professional to do your wedding day makeup can help guarantee a flawless face.

Hiring a professional who understands how makeup reads in a photograph and how it looks in everyday light can help any bride-to-be put her best face forward. It also takes away some of the stress of readying for the wedding day. Many do-it-yourself brides do not

use the right products and can end up looking washed out in photographs. Brides, especially those who typically do not wear a lot of makeup, may not know how much to apply, resulting in a lackluster finished product. Here’s why the makeup artist can prove invaluable. • He or she can pinpoint your best features and play them up. As an unbiased observer, the makeup artist will not see your flaws, but rather will look at your best assets. • A makeup artist knows that the bride wants to see herself and not the makeup. He or she is creating the best version of the bride.

• Makeup artists use tricks of the trade to enhance or camouflage certain features. They have an intimate knowledge of highlighting and shading and they are capable of, through makeup application, sculpting the face. • A professional will know the products available and be familiar with which formulations work best on all types of skin. If you have oily or dry skin, they can work to minimize any appearances of flaws. Also, a makeup artist will have many products and tools at the ready, reducing your need to shop prior to your wedding for all

• You get a trial run with a makeup artist. Sitting down with a professional gives you the opportunity to try on a few different looks and decide on which you prefer. Do-it-yourself brides sometimes leave makeup decisions to the last minute and really do not have a game plan the day of the wedding.

• A professional can advise on the right tone. A common mistake made by do-it-yourselfers is choosing the wrong shade of foundation. Brides may end up looking like a pasty vampire or someone who has spent too much time in the sun. A makeup artist can help find the right shade and blend it in so there are no apparent lines from the face to the neck and decolletage. • A makeup artist can get those tricky false lashes to look natural. Lush, full lashes really get eyes noticed, but many women are unsure of just how to apply false lashes. Lashes may be part of the makeup artist’s insider tricks, and he or she can apply them so no one knows they are not real. Hiring a makeup artist to apply your wedding day look could be a smart investment, particularly if you want to stand out and be noticed on your big day.

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Meet the Bridal Experts W

e are honoured to have been a finalist for the 2013 Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards and are proud to present this year’s fall show on Sunday, September 15th at the Pearkes Recreation Centre. We invite you to come and meet with top wedding professionals and organize every aspect of your wedding in one day. We are a Vancouver Island owned and operated company and have hosted the Bridal Exhibition for over 18 years. Each show has been very successful and this one promises to once again live up to those expectations. Come spend the day meeting with wedding enthusiasts, checking out the on-stage presentations and fashion shows, and taking in the samples, freebies and fun! The event runs from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and features the Island’s best wedding exhibitors from every avenue of the wedding industry. Make sure you don’t miss out on our fashion shows and on-stage presentations. We will be giving away door prizes every hour, and each registered couple at the show will have the opportunity to enter the draw for a GRAND PRIZE WEDDING PACKAGE valued at over $5,000. All couples will also receive a free Wedding Experts Bridal Resource Directory and the new issue of Vancouver Island Wedding Ring magazine. Our registered couples will also receive a complimentary Bridal Rewards Card when they attend our show, which entitles them to all types of savings from our participating bridal exhibition vendors. We look forward to seeing all the soon-to-be newlyweds and

their guests and family at our show and encourage all couples to pre-register at BridalExhibition.ca. Tickets can also be purchased through our website or at any Thrifty Foods location. Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 at the door. We would like to thank our media sponsors — Black Press, The Ocean 98.5 and Jack FM — as well as our grand prize giveaway premium sponsors — Shades of White; Luna PhotoLounge; Moores Clothing for Men; Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort & Spa; Bed, Bath & Beyond; SunLovers Travel; Victoria Bridal Boutique; Fetching Image; RSM Productions DJ Services; and Hotel Grand Pacific. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who attends the Victoria Bridal Exhibition and wish you much happiness on your wedding day. Our website is also an online bridal guide to help you organize your special day. For exhibitor information, bridal resources, and wedding planning guides, please go to BridalExhibition.ca or call us at 1-888-501-9696. Sincerely, Rick Scheffers, Owner/Producer Beckie Ross, Co–Producer

Schedule of Events 11:15 am Reveal: Vancouver Island Wedding Ring Magazine new issue 11:30 am Fashion Show: The Bride’s Closet 1:00 pm Fashion Show: Victoria Bridal Boutique 2:00 pm “I Do & Please Don’ts” presented by Vancouver Island Wedding Ring 3:00 pm Fashion Show: Bliss Gowns & Events 4:00 pm GRAND PRIZE DRAW SHOW SPONSORS: OCEAN 98.5, BLACK PRESS, VANCOUVER ISLAND WEDDING RING

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blowout prices. Some veils will also be included in the sale at a fraction of the original price. The Bride’s Closet will also include a free pair of shoes with the purchase of a gown! The great selection of shoes will be limited to the sizes and styles on hand on sale day.

will feature current styles up to 70% off, and will showcase favourite lace, satin, and tulle gowns. Visit their blog the week before the show for a sneak peek at the collection.

Four of our bridal shops have decided to clean out their closets and sell off dresses at discounted prices. They’ll be bringing along a bit of everything — bridal, bridesmaid, mother-of-the– bride, cocktail, and flower girl dresses.

Victoria Bridal Boutique has blowout prices for gowns, starting at $99! Check out their $20 formal rack. Find gowns by Mia Solano, Sophia Tolli, Mon Cheri, David Tutera, Ella Rosa, Mori Lee, and many more.

Shops participating in the “ROCK THE DRESS” Sample Sale are:

What can you expect to see?

Bliss Gowns & Events will be featuring bridal gowns at incredible prices by designers such as Sottero & Midgley, San Patrick, Casablanca, and more. Bliss will also have a large selection of evening wear by JS and Frank Lyman, and even accessories too, all at great prices!

The Bride’s Closet will be bringing a beautiful selection of sample gowns in a variety of sizes, including top designers like Allure, Alfred Sung, Jasmine, and Sophia Tolli. These amazing gowns are in excellent condition and will be offered at

Blush Bridal Boutique has just received their 2014 collection and it’s time to make room! Blush will be featuring bridal gowns by Maggie Sottero, Stella York, Pronovias, Enzoani, Beautiful, and Martina Liana. This lovely sample collection

Tickets to the show are $12 in advance (online at BridalExhibition. ca or any Thrifty Foods) and $15 at the door. Draws for VIP Passes will be done through Black Press, The Ocean, and online through all participating Sample Sale vendors in the week leading up to the event. VIP access to the sample sale room will be from 10 am to 11 am with open access after 11 am. Fitting rooms and mirrors will be available on site. All sales made that day are final — no refunds or exchanges. Payment will be accepted via TICKETS cash, debit, and credit In Advance: card. Prices for $12 dresses are to At The Door be determined $15 by each shop.

The fine print:

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 PEARKES RECREATION CENTRE

Rewards for You

The Vancouver Island Bridal Exhibition wants to help you organize your special day. To do that, we’re offering a Bridal Rewards Card. Every registered couple attending the Bridal Exhibition will receive one of these valuable Bridal Rewards Cards. This card will allow you one admission to future Bridal Exhibitions in 2013 and an opportunity to receive various rewards – such as discounts or free gifts – from participating Bridal Exhibition vendors. How can the Bridal Rewards Card Program work for you?

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VI Fitness • 2 week free gym pass to any location ($168 value) • enrolment fee of $99 waived when joining on a 1 or 2 year membership • 3 free personal training sessions with a purchase of 12 or more sessions (a $145 value)

Lugaro Jewellers • 20% off Wedding Bands and any other jewellery purchase. $99 Tungsten band Special & Pearl Specials (some restrictions apply) Luna Photolounge • Discount of 20% off regular price services Pete Snell Photography • Complimentary 11 x 1 Fine art canvas of wedding or engagement photo for Bride & Groom who book packages of 6 hours of service or more • 10% discount off all packages

1) Discount off your orders 2) Buy three receive one free 3) Free gift when booking products and services Bliss Gowns & Events • 50% off your veil +20% off bridesmaid dresses with gown purchase of $1000 or more • 50% off your veil +15% off bridesmaid dresses with gown purchase of under $1000 Home Outfitters • Get a 10% completion discount for up to one year from your event date for any items registered prior to your event date

RSM Productions • Free Ceremony Services when booking a Deluxe, Premium or Ultimate Wedding Package with RSM Productions. UnderCover Wear • Book a party or spend $100 and receive a 3 day 2 night accommodation voucher for Las Vegas. • Book a party and spend $100 and receive your choice of voucher for 7 nights Hawaii or 10 nights Mexico accommodation

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ridal Exhibition is pleased to be presenting their second annual Fall Victoria show on September 15th at Pearkes Recreation Centre. This show features a fabulous event: the “ROCK THE DRESS” Sample Sale!

• The Bride’s Closet • Victoria Bridal Boutique • Bliss Gowns & Events • Blush Bridal Boutique

weddings & receptions S U I T E H OT E L

Exciting News!!!

Victoria Bridal Boutique • Complimentary accessories valued up to $100 when purchasing a gown valued at $1000+ These are just a few examples of the types of savings your Bridal Rewards Card can offer you.

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Along with the Bridal Rewards Card, you will receive a current list of the participating vendors in the program and also what type of reward they are offering. For a complete, up-to-date list or more information, please visit our website, BridalExhibition.ca If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to give us a call. The Bridal Rewards Card Program is subject to change without notice; vendors have the ability to change the reward or opt out of the program at any time.

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13 best supplied by a professional photographer.

A professional photographer will provide the expertise needed to produce beautiful wedding photos.

Don’t overlook the importance of wedding day photography Thanks to the popularity of social media,

some couples may overlook the importance of hiring a professional photographer for their weddings. Although there is something to be said for candid images captured on phones and personal cameras, the pictures a couple will cherish and look back on for decades are

Professional photographers use high-quality equipment that will produce much better results than photos snapped on the average digital camera. Plus, the photographer has experience with posing, placement of arms and legs, head tilting, and lighting, each of which ensures that the photos come out looking as good as possible. While a friend may not notice an eyesore in the rear of a photo composition when taking a picture, a professional may notice something that will stand out and make adjustments. Furthermore, professional photographers tend to have an eye for interesting angles to capture images that may be overlooked. Rather than a series of portraits at one level, he or she may climb high for aerial shots or lie on the floor for a different perspective. The results may be unique vantage points that set your wedding photos apart from those of the masses. Price alone should not dictate which

Keep in mind that photographers are unique individuals and not all the visions and styles of particular artists will meld with your own perception of how you want the wedding to look. Expressing your expectations and comparing your goals with the portfolios of photographers will help you find the best fit. Do not feel shy about asking for testimonials from past customers or talking to couples you know who have recently gotten married and asking for a recommendation. While couples are making wedding day magic, photographers are behind the scenes capturing all of the memories couples can relive for years and years to come.

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imousines, gowns and flowers are each important components of a couple’s wedding day. But few aspects of a wedding are as important as photography.

Even if you will be hiring a videographer and having photos snapped by loving friends and family, professional wedding photography is an ideal way to immortalize this special day. Most couples say “I do” with the hopes of staying together forever, giving them only one chance to capture the magic of the wedding day on film. Leaving photos to chance by hiring an amateur photographer may be something couples regret down the road.

photographer to hire. Although wedding budgets are often stretched, skimping on a photography allotment may create subpar results. That doesn’t mean you need to hire the most expensive photographer, but couples should realize the value of experience and professional equipment, both of which tend to come at a premium price. Do not expect to pay package prices that would be offered at department or discount stores. Many photographers are artists who take their work very seriously. A photographer will be spending all day with you capturing hundreds of photos. Each image will then need to be reviewed, repositioned and potentially enhanced or retouched. This time-consuming attention to detail is often what dictates the higher costs of a very good photographer.

UPTOWN SHOPPING CENTRE!

Items to Pack on Your Honeymoon Camera and accessories: Bring the camera for capturing all of your memories. But don’t forget to bring a charger and extra batteries. Pack an extra memory card unless you will be downloading the photos to a laptop or uploading them to a storage system. If you are travelling internationally, you will need an electrical converter to plug in any electronics.

Cash: You will need some cash even if you’re visiting an all-inclusive resort. In addition, take one or two major credit cards if you do not enjoy carrying too much cash. Only bring what you need because you don’t want to face the hassle of cancelling cards or replacing the contents of your wallet should something go missing. Clothing: Try to pack clothing that can be mixed and matched for a number of different looks. Solidcoloured pants, shorts or skirts paired with different tops is an easy way to achieve new looks. Remember to bring at least one dressier option in clothing for a night out at a special dinner. Bring along at least two swimsuits to have one available while the other is drying.

Comfort products: Items like insect repellent, sunburn soothing cream, aspirin, motion-sickness medication, and more may be very expensive at your destination, so bring these items from home. Eyeglasses/contacts: Bring your spare pair of contact lenses or eyeglasses in case your primary pair is lost or damaged.

Feminine hygiene products: Feminine hygiene products may be unavailable where you are travelling, so don’t forget to bring some along.

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Fold-up travel bag: This extra bag can be used to tote items to and from the beach or while sightseeing. It also can be used to carry any souvenirs that may take up too much space in your luggage.

Hair products: The hotel may provide certain toiletries, but bring along

travel-sized hair products to ensure your hair looks good during your trip.

Phone: Check with your mobile carrier to find out about roaming charges or if you will incur extra charges making calls or accessing data at your destination. If so, you may be able to purchase prepaid phone cards or negotiate a temporary international rate. Sunscreen: Pack some sunscreen so you don’t return home from your honeymoon with a bad sunburn.

Toiletries: Cotton swabs, razors, toothbrushes, shaving cream, and the like are items to bring from home, as they are likely to cost a lot more at your destination than they do at home. Workout clothing: If you plan on visiting the resort’s fitness centre, pack a pair of athletic shoes and shorts or sweatpants.

Zipper-top bags: Bring along various sizes of storage bags to store wet swimsuits or for protecting and sorting different items.

POPULAR SONGS for the motherson dance

for the fatherdaughter dance

Wedding ceremonies and receptions are rife with tradition, and many of those traditions are celebrations of the two families joining together. One of the more popular traditions is the mother-son dance during the reception, when the mother of the groom gets to shine on the dance floor with her son as guests watch. Some mother-son combinations choose to go with a more traditional song for their dance, while others prefer to turn up the volume and get down to a more modern song. The following are some popular songs chosen for the mother-son dance.

Many brides anxiously await their opportunity to dance with dear old Dad at their wedding receptions. One of the more beloved wedding traditions, the father-daughter dance is an often touching moment for fathers, new brides, and guests alike. Though fathers and their daughters can choose whatever song they’d like for their special dance together, the following are some of the more popular songs for this special event. “The Way You Look Tonight” — Frank Sinatra

“What a Wonderful World” — Louis Armstrong

“My Girl” — The Temptations

“Isn’t She Lovely” — Stevie Wonder

“In My Life” — The Beatles

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“Wonderful Tonight” — Eric Clapton

“How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” — James Taylor

“Have I Told You Lately” — Rod Stewart

“Summer Wind” — Frank Sinatra

“Butterfly Kisses” — Bob Carlisle

“Simple Man” — Lynyrd Skynyrd

“Over The Rainbow” — Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

“Forever Young” — Rod Stewart “The Wind Beneath My Wings” — Bette Midler

“You Are So Beautiful” — Joe Cocker

“Child Of Mine” — Carole King

“Unforgettable” — Nat King Cole

“God Only Knows” — The Beach Boys

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“Blessed” — Elton John

“Father and Daughter” — Paul Simon

“Just The Way You Are” — Billy Joel

“Landslide” — Fleetwood Mac

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Things to consider when choosing a hotel for your guests

ouples must make a host of decisions when they decide to tie the knot. For those couples having a more traditional wedding, the choice of accommodations for guests is one of the bigger decisions to make, especially if many of your guests will be coming from out of town. On the surface, finding a hotel for your guests might seem as simple as locating a place that offers the most competitive rate. But while price is important, there are many additional factors couples must consider when choosing a hotel to ensure their guests’ stay is as accommodating as possible. Location

Location is perhaps the foremost factor for couples to consider when finding a hotel for their wedding guests. Though cost is important, the location of the hotel should be weighed more heavily than the nightly rate. A more affordable hotel in the middle of nowhere is far less convenient for guests than spending a few extra dollars per night on a room that’s closer. That’s especially true for a wedding with many out-of-town guests who may or may not be renting a vehicle while they are in town. The hotel should be within reasonable proximity to the site of the ceremony and the reception venue. Transportation

Getting guests to and from your wedding and reception is another factor to consider when choosing accommodations for your guests. A hotel that provides shuttle service to and from the ceremony and reception can be very convenient for guests and the couple, who won’t have to worry about how those guests who won’t be driving will get from the hotel to the venue. Many hotels even provide shuttle service to nearby airports for their guests, which can save guests money on cab fare when

Cost should not be the only concern when booking accommodations the time comes for them to head home. Proximity to nightlife

While the guests will be partying long after the sun has gone down on the night of your wedding, many will want to hit the town the night before the wedding as well. Weddings have a way of turning into reunions, both for families and friends, and that often makes the night before the wedding just as fun as the wedding reception. When comparing accommodations for your guests, look for a hotel that has nightlife within walking distance, whether that nightlife includes restaurants, nightclubs or bars. Many couples tend to spend the night before their wedding enjoying a rehearsal dinner with their parents and members of the bridal party, so finding a hotel that allows guests to enjoy a night on the town without venturing too far from the hotel is a thoughtful gesture your guests are sure to appreciate. Proximity to other hotels

Some hotels will only block off so many rooms per wedding party. Couples with larger guest lists might want

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Though cost should not be the deciding factor when arranging for lodging for your guests, it definitely merits substantial consideration. That’s even more true if many of your guests will be coming from out of town. Out-of-town guests will have to pay to travel to your wedding, so you should look for a hotel with a reasonable rate to mitigate the costs of that travel. Look for a nice hotel that won’t require guests to extend their finances more than they already will be doing just to get to the wedding. Couples about to tie the knot should prioritize finding affordable and convenient accommodations for their guests.

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to look for several hotels in close proximity and establish smaller blocks at each one, rather than one large block at a single hotel. This gives guests options regarding their accommodations, and when the hotels are close to one another, it’s still easy for guests to get in touch with friends or family members who are also attending the wedding but staying at another hotel.

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Tips for pre-wedding spa and beauty

o you want to look great for your wedding day, spend time with loved ones, and relax? Pre-wedding spa services offer all the options you need.

Are you wondering where to start? Here is some expert advice from a spa director who has seen the gamut of bridal do’s and don’ts. These tips will ensure you get what you need and avoid any pre-wedding disasters. Plan ahead — If you want the best selection of booking times and everything to go smoothly, you must book in advance. Spas and salons are typically very busy on the weekends when most weddings are hosted. Six to eight months in advance is recommended.

Don’t overbook yourself — Too often, brides try to jam everything in the morning of their wedding day when they already have a million things to coordinate, making it difﬁcult to relax. If you are getting the works — manicure, pedicure, massage, hair, and makeup — try planning some of it the day or week prior, leaving only the makeup and hair for the day of. Manicures and pedicures should be done either the day before or morning of to prevent you from damaging the polish. What services to book — Massage is great to calm nerves; manicures and pedicures make your nails fresh and ready for photos.

Bridal makeup, pre-trial and day-of — Having a consultation session before your wedding day gives you an opportunity to try colours. It is very stressful if you only do day-of makeup and then decide you don’t like the way it looks and don’t have enough time to re-do it. For those ladies that don’t usually wear makeup, the pretrial is vital to planning a strategy you will be comfortable with. Expect your bridal makeup to be heavier and more elaborate than you are used to, but trust your makeup artist; it will look great in the photos.

Hair before makeup — Get your hair done before your makeup so your hairstylist doesn’t need to worry about damaging your makeup while styling. Your hairstylist may suggest doing a pre-trial session for the same reasons as pretrial makeup. Try to plan your makeup/hair at a spa close to where you need to be so you are not running around in the morning. If you are staying at a hotel with a spa, you’re all set. What not to book — While facials or waxing seem like a good idea pre-wedding, they are not recommended. Using any new products on your skin risks a reaction to an ingredient and a serious ﬂare-up, which you don’t want in your wedding photos. Stick to what you’re used to for skincare leading up to your wedding and get waxing done at least a week in advance.

Your spa experience will go off without a hitch if you plan ahead. Who to bring — You may wish to have your bridesmaids, ﬁancée, groomsmen, mother and/or in-laws join you for services. If you are coordinating, be clear about who is paying for what and the expected costs. Sometimes it is easier to have everyone book their own services so they are accountable for instructions and the cancellation policy. Arrive early if you are travelling with a group; it takes longer to check in and get organized. Stress and mayhem ensue when everyone arrives late. Treatments get cut short, pushed back, or missed. Don’t be surprised if everyone is still billed in full due to the cancellation policy. What to book for him — Massage and manicure is the perfect spa combo for men before a wedding. It offers them relaxation and ensures their hands and nails look great for photos.

Consult with the experts — Your receptionist, hairstylist and esthetician will help you plan things perfectly. Listen to their suggestions and things will go smoothly. Remember: they really do need as much time as they say they do. Stagettes and honeymoons — These are also great times to spa. More women are preferring a spa stagette to a night out of drinking.

Celebrate, relax and enjoy — This is the fun part if you let it be. You can bring your family, friends, and ﬁancé. There is no one-size-ﬁtsall. Pick what works for you and enjoy it.

I do... ...want to look & feel my radiant best on this day of days. Rejuvenating spa treatments and group celebrations help you unwind and prepare for your special day.

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How your guests can get around

ouples have a lot of factors competing for attention when planning their weddings. From finding a reception venue to choosing the menu to pinpointing the perfect honeymoon destination, couples must make many decisions on their way to becoming man and wife. One decision that’s easily overlooked is how guests will get around come the weekend of the wedding. This is an especially important consideration for couples whose guest list includes many out-of-town guests that will be flying in for the festivities. Though the bride- and groom-to-be typically will not have to pay for their guests’ transportation all weekend long, it can be considerate for couples to share a variety of transportation options with their guests prior to the big day. The following are a handful of ways guests might be able to get around town come the weekend of your wedding. Public transportation Public transportation is arguably the most affordable way for guests to get around. And in larger, more densely populated cities, public transportation is often the most practical option as well. If your wedding will be taking place in a big city, provide a basic rundown of the public transportation options available in that city, including a bus schedule or a map of the subway system. These can be linked to a wedding website or included in the welcome bag awaiting guests at the hotel. Couples getting married in a larger city may also want to choose a hotel that is close to public transportation so

guests can easily get to and fro throughout the weekend. Rental car agencies Major airports include rental car kiosks where arriving passengers can reserve a vehicle for the duration of their trip. But renting directly from an airport agency is typically more expensive than renting from an off-airport site. Couples who want to save their guests some money can provide them with a list of off-airport rental car agencies with more competitive rates. Such agencies may even pick your guests up at the airport. If not, guests might be able to take a shuttle to their hotels before picking up their rental car from a nearby agency. Taxi service If your wedding reception and Friday night meet-up will be taking place in close proximity to each other, then your guests may not even need to arrange for their own transportation. A taxi service to and from the airport might be all the transportation they need for the weekend. When planning activities for the weekend, make an effort to keep everything within walking distance of the hotel so your out-of-town guests won’t have to face more expenses. Shuttle service Whether your guests are travelling far and wide to attend your wedding or live right around the corner from the venue, it’s best to arrange for shuttle service to and from the ceremony and reception for any guests staying at the hotel. This ensures no one gets lost on the way to and from the ceremony or reception, and it’s also a way to ensure guests make it home safe after a reception where alcohol was being served. Though couples have many decisions to make, it’s important that they not overlook how their guests will get around come the weekend of the wedding.

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Reach over 64,000 households! posted on social media is not adequate. • Even if you are late with writing out thankyou notes, that doesn’t exclude you from doing so. By adhering to thankyou card etiquette, couples will ensure their guests know that gifts and efforts to make the wedding special were appreciated.

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gifts that were received through the mail so the giver knows they arrived. • Never mention that you plan to return a gift or exchange it. • Mentioning the amount of a monetary gift is optional, but it does confirm to the giver that the right amount was received. • A mass thank-you

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Here are some other guidelines to follow. • Mail out a handwritten note to each and every person being thanked. • Do not use form letters or preprinted cards to which you simply add your signature. • Be sincere in your messages and try to mention the gift and what it will be used for. • Promptly respond to

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eddings and gifts go hand-in-hand. Couples who are tying the knot can expect to receive scores of gifts, ranging from simple well-wishes to cash to items listed on their registries. Because giftgiving is tradition, couples should plan on spending some time writing thank-you notes to express gratitude to the people who were kind enough to give a gift. Contrary to popular belief, couples do not have a year’s grace period to mail out thankyou notes after the gift has been received or the wedding has taken place. Etiquette experts say all thank-you cards should be written and mailed within three months of receipt of a gift. It is preferable that the thank-you be written directly after receipt of the gift, but time-strapped couples may not have the opportunity to do so. However, writing a few thank-you cards every few days can alleviate having a giant pile to do later on. Many couples prefer to order thank-you stationery when they order their wedding invitations. This way the paper, font, and

style match the original invitations. In addition, it may be less expensive to order stationery as a package. In some cases, a photography package may include thank-you notes with wallet-sized photos to include. Couples can then mail out a nice sentiment with a photo from the wedding. To keep with the etiquette time frame of thank-you notes, it is important to find out when the thank-you photos and cards will arrive first from the photographer. The thank-you sentiments should not be delayed by the photographer. For those interested in less expensive options, preprinted thank-you cards can be purchased at a stationery store. There are many designs and price points available. Remember, it is not the card itself, but the thank-you that is important. As to the rules regarding those getting a thank-you, it is just about anyone who contributed in some part to the wedding, even if a verbal thanks was already offered. Anyone who provided an engagement, shower, or wedding gift, those who gave gifts of money, anyone who hosted a party or shower, attendants in the wedding, people who may have housed wedding guests, parents of the bride and groom, suppliers and vendors, and employers who have wished couples well should all be included on the thank-you list.

Wedding thank-you cards etiquette

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