Special Features - Wedding Guide 2016

WEDDING GUIDE

2016 Banquet and hall rental directory ‡ Advice for planning the perfect wedding The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016 1

Sunday February 7 Show hours 10:00am – 4:30pm Fashion shows 11:30am & 2:30pm Sponsored by:

Bridal sale salon

Over $26,000 In Fabulous Prizes !!

Admission: $10 Advance $15 Door Tickets available at: Bridalgala.ca Black Knight Tuxedos Bridal Couture Dezigns The Bay

MEMBERS OF

2

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

7362180A28

For More Information Call 403.340.3300 www.bridalgala.ca

Say “I Do” In Trochu

VENUES

CEREMONY VENUES

Plan Your Dream Wedding!

CATERING

TRANSPORTATION

SALONS

TROCHU ARBORETUM For booking call (403) 588-8600 or (403) 442-3085

For booking call: (403) 442-4210 Commercial Kitchen • Seating for 200 guests • On street Parking (free)

TROCHU ARBORETUM VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTRE For booking call: (403) 588-8600 or (403) 442-3085 ** Outside receptions can be accommodated for tent rental booking call (403) 442-2234 Non-Commercial Kitchen • Seating for 25 to 30 guests

ST. ANN RANCH For booking call (403) 442-3924

BRUCE GUARD CENTRE & CAMPGROUND For bookings call (403) 442-3061 Seating for 140 guests • Parking (free) • Ball Diamonds • Driving Range (golf) • 39 Serviced Camp sites • Grill & Barbeque • Cooler/Freezer

TROCHU BAPTIST CHURCH For booking call (403) 442– 4210

ST. ANNE’S OF THE PRAIRIES CATHOLIC CHURCH For booking call (403) 442-3038

RECEPTION VENUES TROCHU BAPTIST FELLOWSHIP CENTRE

ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH For booking call (403) 631-2375 or (403) 442-4378

ST. PAUL’S UNITED CHURCH For booking call (403) 442-3858

PHOTOGRAPHERS

ST. ANN RANCH For information on • Accommodations • Caterers • Photographers/venues • Music • Liquor Stores • Limo Service/Carriage • Beauty Salons

Please Contact the Trochu Town Office for a listing or check out our website at town.trochu.ab.ca/ say-i-do-in-trochu

1-888-442-3924, (403) 442-3924 You will need to book a tent.

For Tent Rental booking call (403) 442-2234

TROCHU COMMUNITY CENTRE For booking call (403) 506-8581 Commercial Kitchen • Seating for 400 guests • Large Parking Lot (free)

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

3

Choose a wedding date wisely M most happy and then determine if that time of year is doable.

any couples find themselves bombarded with questions the moment they become engaged, and perhaps no questions is more common than, “When is the wedding?”

Although a number of couples would prefer to bask in the excitement of their engagement, some couples feel pressured to rush into picking a wedding date.

Choosing a wedding date without giving it much consideration may make things more difficult down the road. Rather than jumping head first into any decisions, couples should give thought to any and all dates and decide if there are certain times of the year they want to tie the knot or avoid.

Season When thinking about potential wedding dates, it helps to have a place to start. Some couples find it helpful to start with a particular season and then narrow it down from there. Decide if you prefer the lush greenery of summer or the amazing color spectrum of an autumn afternoon. Perhaps you envision arriving at the ceremony with a snow-packed landscape amid twinkling holiday lights? Think about the season when you feel

Month

Certain months may seem perfect, but not for busy professionals or those with limited vacation time at their disposal. For example, early spring may not be good for accountants tallying year-end numbers. Teachers may feel most comfortable tying the knot in the summer when they already have days off. If you run a pool business or a lawn maintenance company, then the summer might not be so good. Keep these factors in mind.

Holidays

Some people would like to tie their wedding day to a particular holiday. Valentine’s Day is popular for weddings thanks to the romantic sentiments synonymous with the holiday, while some couples prefer Halloween or Christmas weddings.

Holiday weddings can be exciting, but they also produce significant obstacles that couples who choose to get married during other times of year don’t have to worry about.

Guests may not want to travel or spend time away from their families to attend a holiday wedding. Having a wedding during a holiday may mean competing for vendors and reception spaces. Prices on everything from food to flowers

to airline tickets could be higher as vendors cash in on customer demand.

Day of the week

It’s less expensive for couples to get married on Fridays and Sundays than Saturday afternoons or evenings. Couples may think that the money saved will be well worth it, but they also should think about how this decision may affect their guests. A Friday wedding requires people to take off from work or school. Sunday weddings may be slightly more convenient, but those who have to get back to work on Monday may be tired from latenight festivities. Couples should anticipate some guests not making it to their weddings when those weddings are not on Saturdays.

Any available dates Your wedding date may be dictated by your caterer or wedding hall.

If you have a particular venue in mind, you may be limited by their availability. This is a concession you will need to make if your heart is set on this particular location.

Planning a wedding can be exciting. But the ball cannot get rolling until couples first choose the day they will tie the knot.

4

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

• Ethnic Menus available • Outside Catering available • Contact our team for special discounted wedding group rates at Holiday Inn Hotel and Holiday Inn Express, Red Deer.

7409206A28

IN RED DEER’S NEWEST FULL-SERVICE HOTEL! • 7,000 sq.ft. of Pillarless Banquet Space • Award winning Executive Chef Emmanuel David and his international culinary team • Over 14 different guest room types • Honeymoon Suite/Bridal Suite over 900 sq.ft.

Bring your dream wedding to life with Fantasyland Hotel

“The venue was beautiful and we got lots of compliments on the ballroom (Beverly Hills) as well as the food. Thank you for the event!”

– Michelle & Mark, October 2014

“Thank you so much for helping us and providing your skills to coordinate a perfect reception.”

– Melissa & Curtis, June 2015

25,000 sq ft of event space

355 guest rooms

Located in West Edmonton Mall

Award-winning chefs creating customizable menus

780-444-5500 | 1-800-RESERVE (737.3783) groups@fantasylandhotel.com | fantasylandhotel.com

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

5

RED DEER’S IMAGE OF BEAUTY By advocate staff

A

erial pictures of garden ceremonies are the latest innovation in wedding photography.

Couples who get married in gorgeous outdoor settings can now get bird’s-eye photos taken by flying drones, said George Alonso, owner of Red Deer’s Image of Beauty photography and videography company.

“You need open spaces, like an acreage … and you can’t have adverse weather,” he added.

“Indoors there are certain restrictions …”

But all of Red Deer’s favourite wedding spots — including Coronation Park, Bower Ponds, and Heritage Square behind the Recreation Centre — would be ideal for drone shots, providing the temperature hovers higher than 10 C. When it comes to camera-equipped Alonso said, “We licenced… It’s a very we’ve been exploring year.”

operating drones, are fully new thing in the last

Providing these kind of innovative options is one reason Image of Beauty was a 2016 winner of the WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards for Photography, Videography and Beauty Services.

The global online wedding market network, WeddingWire, recognizes through customer ratings, the top

6

five per cent of wedding-related photograph will be all black and businesses in 20 service categories, white — except for the blue vests.

Greens, reds and some yellow tones from florist to venues. can also be highlighted.

Alonso said he’s happy his business earned a Couples’ Choice “It’s getting to be a big thing,” said certificate because it proves Alonso, since many couples are customers don’t have to look outside seeking something that sets their of Red Deer for top-quality service wedding apart from others. providers. “It’s very important that “It’s like brides not wanting to people know that they don’t have to wear the same dress as other go to Calgary or Edmonton.” brides. They want something that Image of Beauty has been makes them unique, because it’s photographing an average of 35 their day.”

Central Alberta weddings a year Clients have asked for some since 2010. interesting location shots, including Alonso, a native of Mexico City, in barns and at railway tracks. is a former engineer, who taught For the latter Alonso instructed, himself photography while living in “Don’t stand on the tracks! We’re New Zealand. While he still takes not responsible if a train runs you some pictures for his company, over,” he recalled, with a chuckle. he also hires up to nine local Actually, he does his best to professional photographers and accommodate. “We basically treat videographers. every client like the only client,” “Red Deer has so many talented he added — and this approach has people, you wouldn’t believe garnered Image of Beauty its high it,” said Alonso. “We should feel customer ratings. proud…”

Other Red Deer 2016 WeddingWire Image of Beauty photogs have winning businesses: are La Petite taken panoramic shots that include Jaune Fleur and Calix Floral huge families and bridal parties. Design (for flowers), Juiced Audio “We can sweep across and get & Lightning Ltd and Klay Tate everybody in the same picture,” Productions (for deejay services), and AJ Craft Creations (for said Alonso. invitations).

Another innovation allows only one colour to be spotlighted in black To s e e a l l t h e A l b e r t a please visit and white photos. For example, if w i n n e r s all the groomsmen in a wedding www.weddingwire.com/couplesparty have blue vests on, the final choice-awards/alberta/AB-r.html

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

Simple solutions to save on your wedding

C

Ve n u e

But as shocking as the cost of saying “I do” in front of family and friends can be, there are some tried-andtrue ways to drastically reduce that cost without making the big day any less special.

Guests Many couples save the most money by reducing the number of people they invite to their wedding.

Couples who come from large families may not be able to cut family members from their guest lists without causing a significant stir, so such men and women can look for other areas to trim.

Professional colleagues and old acquaintances who you no longer keep in touch with are unlikely to be offended if they don’t make the cut, and removing them from the guest list can save couples substantial amounts of money.

Perhaps no element of wedding planning is more open to negotiation than the venue where the reception will take place. Many couples now choose venues that can host both the wedding and the reception, and that can save couples the cost of booking two separate locations and transporting out-of-town guests from one location to another. Venues are typically open to negotiation with regard to the price per person for the reception, and few will not have some wiggle room built into their initial quote. If young children and teenagers will be attending the wedding, negotiate lower rates for their meals, as they won’t be drinking alcohol and therefore won’t cost the venue as much as adult guests.

Location Where a couple decides to tie the knot will have a significant impact on their bottom line. Certain locales, such as large cities, are more expensive than others.

Couples who come from small towns may benefit from tying the knot close to home, as vendors tend to charge less the further they are from large metropolises. Waterfront

Timing The timing of a wedding also affects a couple’s bottom line.

Couples hoping to get married when wedding season hits its peaks, which is generally considered the months of May and June and then also late-September into October, can expect to pay substantially more than couples willing to get married at other times of the year. Couples also can save money by choosing to get married on Friday or Sunday nights or Saturday afternoon, when many venues charge considerably less per person than they do on Saturday night, which remains the most popular night of the week to get married.

The cost of a wedding is considerable, but couples can cut those costs in several ways if they’re willing to be flexible and negotiate with vendors.

7415239A28

ouples in the midst of planning a wedding often find themselves overwhelmed by the cost of such a meaningful yet expensive undertaking. The average wedding is as expensive as a new car or a down payment on a new house, so it’s no surprise many couples experience sticker shock when they first begin to negotiate with vendors.

venues, regardless of which city they happen to be in, also tend to be more expensive than venues with less impressive surroundings.

Couples willing to sacrifice city lights and breathtaking views of the water are likely to find more affordable venues for ceremonies and receptions.

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

7

Dressing for wedding day comfort

W

edding attire is known more for style than comfort. Formal wear, high heels and the various trappings of wedding day wardrobes do not always equate to a day of comfort. While dressing up will never be the same as slipping into a well-worn pair of jeans, there are ways for brides, grooms and guests to be comfortable on the big day. * Dress for the weather. It’s tempting to put appearances before comfort. However, wearing clothing without regard for the weather is a surefire way to be uncomfortable all day long. Choose lightweight fabrics for warm weather occasions, and heavier fabrics when attending a winter wedding. Wraps, short jackets, muffs, and decorative scarves allow women to cover up if there’s a chill from the weather or if air conditioning is set too cold. * Invest in alterations. Few people can wear clothing, especially formal attire, right off the rack.

The services of a good tailor can prove invaluable. Shortened hemlines or tightened sleeves can make dresses fit better. Shapewear or support components may be added to the wedding gown so that extra undergarment layers can be avoided. The less you have to fuss with clothing, the more comfortable you will be. Try on your outfit

without alterations and point out the areas that are bothersome. Is a bodice slipping down? Is the tuxedo jacket a little too snug? Speak with the tailor about what can be done to remedy the situation. * Choose the right size. Formal wear is frequently governed by a different set of sizes from everyday attire. Formal items are cut smaller and more in line with high fashion couture sizing. Expect to have to go up in size with regard to formal gowns. Instead of concerning yourself with the size on the tag, focus on the fit. Squeezing into something that is too small can make you uncomfortable all evening long and inhibit your ability to enjoy yourself on the dance floor.

Avoid discomfort (and split seams) by leaving some wiggle room in wedding day ensembles. * Focus on footwear. Guests’ eyes likely won’t be on your feet. Still, many people subject themselves to uncomfortable shoes all in the name of fashion. The fastest way to an unenjoyable time is having to sit out a wedding because your shoes are causing excruciating pain. New shoes sometimes need a period of breaking in, so wear them around the house to determine if they’re comfortable enough to wear for several hours at a time.

Women should opt for the lowest heel possible to avoid pressure on

the balls and arches of their feet.

Floor-length wedding gowns usually cover a bride’s feet, so she has more leeway with finding an attractive, yet comfortable shoe. Outdoor weddings tend to be more casual than indoor affairs, and guests may be perfectly comfortable wearing sandals. * Brides can go minimalist. Wedding dresses range from ethereal sheaths to layered princess gowns. The more fabric, tulle, boning and crinoline in the gown, the heavier it will be.

Heavy gowns can make it difficult to move around, particularly when dancing or visiting the restroom.

Unless you have your heart set on a full Cinderella look, scale back on your gown. * Eat and choose healthy foods.

Don’t skip meals the day of the wedding. Choose low-sodium, low-sugar foods that provide sustained energy without sitting heavily in your stomach or causing fluid retention. In addition, be sure to drink plenty of water.

Dehydration and hunger pangs can ruin a wedding by causing fatigue, headaches and even fainting.

Comfort may not be a top priority when planning a wedding. But wedding guests and participants alike should dress with some manner of comfort in mind in order to make the day more enjoyable.

PHOTOGRAPHER’S CORNER HMO PHOTO

Gallery Gateway

HEIDI OVERGUARD PHOTOGRAPHY

C 403-507-6590 TC 403-507-6590 403-638-9773 HEIDI@HMOPHOTO.COM

W W W. H M O P H OTO. CO M

8

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

(403) 877-2177 carmen@gallerygc.com www.gallerygc.com

Wedding Whispers

A SMALL SAMPLE FROM AMAZING LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHERS

DRUMHELLER

wcase o h S g n i d d e W h 13th, 2016

c Sunday Mar y Facility it n u m m o C s d Badlan 12 pm-3 pm free Admission is

badlands

community facility

M A K E Y O U R S P E C I A L D AY U N F O R G E T TA B L E The Badlands Community Facility is a modern venue committed to ensuring perfection on your special day. Their courteous and professional staff are here to assist you in creating beautiful and memorable experiences for you and your family to cherish for years to come.

They take pride in creating the perfect backdrop for your reception, personalized

with your unique romantic touches that will make your dream day complete. Exchange vows within Drumheller’s breathtaking landscapes or within the elegance of a banquet hall. Complete your day on their terrace overlooking the panoramic views of the Badlands, while enjoying the serenity of the outdoors. Experience the beauty of the Badlands Community Facility on your wedding day.

80 Veterans Way, Drumheller Phone: 403-823-1370 Website: www.badlandscommunityfacility.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BCFspecialeventsvenue The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

9

Clever takes on the ‘something old, new, borrowed, blue’ tradition

W

edding day tokens of good luck come in many forms, but “the something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue (a sixpence in your shoe)” adage remains one of the most popular luck-enhancing wedding traditions. According to the bridal resource The Knot, this tradition stems from an Olde English rhyme. Something old represents continuity; something new is for optimism for the future; something borrowed stands for borrowed happiness; and something blue is for purity, love and fidelity. The sixpence in your shoe is a wish for good fortune and prosperity, but this is not a tradition widely celebrated outside of the United Kingdom or British territories.

These traditions can add some creative flair and personality to wedding ceremonies. There’s no end to the inventive combinations of items brides can carry to increase their good fortunes.

Something old Something old is one of the easier mementos to obtain. There is a good chance that someone in the family is willing to pass an item down to the bride that she can include in her wedding wardrobe. It also can be something the bride may have in her own memory box. Beads taken from a grandmother’s dress or a swatch of fabric from a beloved toy doll are creative ideas that can be sewn into inconspicuous places on gowns.

Something borrowed Much like something old, something borrowed is yet another way to pay homage to a friend or family member. It’s also one way to add a sentimental twist to everyday items. Borrow a grandfather’s handkerchief to wrap around the stems of the wedding bouquet.

Exchange vows with the original rings used by a distant relative at their own wedding. Flatter a close friend by wearing the same veil she did.

Something blue There are many ways to incorporate “something blue” into your wedding ceremony. Brides can paint their toenails blue or wear blue shoes under their gowns. Sew a patch from a pair of denim jeans into the bodice of the dress. Paint the bottom of your shoes bright blue so they stand out when kneeling at the altar.

Blue sapphire or topaz jewelry can add an exotic look to the wedding wardrobe.

With a little ingenuity, brides can easily incorporate “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” into their wedding ceremonies.

Something new Brides already purchase many new items for their wedding day looks, so “something new” should not be too hard to find. Couples may want to work together to find something new they can both carry so they have a matching set upon tying the knot.

Interlocking charm bracelets or keychains may work. What about the groom carrying a small padlock and the bride the key? Quirky couples can each wear one sock from a pair.

Get clever and have fun.

10

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

Banquet Facilities & Hall Rental Directory

2016

Lacombe Memorial Centre

Gleniffer Lake Resort & Country Club The Landing Banquet Facility

Westerner Park

Poplar Ridge Community Center

RENTAL CONTACT Phone: 403-782-6668 or email: lmc@lacombe.ca

Phone: 1-888-728-0010 (403) 728-3010 ext 238 email: events@ mylakeresort.com

Phone: 403-343-7800 email: sales@ westernerpark.ca visit us: westernerpark.ca

LOCATION

AMENITIES

5214-50 Avenue

Round & Rectangle Table Seating, Commercial Kitchen, Wheelchair Accessible, Audio Visual, Stage.

35468, Rng Rd 30, Full Banquet Services, Red Deer County, Fully Licensed Bar T4G 0M3 and Dance Floor.

West of Innisfail Licensed Patio Overlooking on Hwy 54 Gleniffer Lake South on Enjoy an Indoor/Outdoor Rng Rd 23 Atmosphere West on Twp Wheelchair Accessible.

Rd 360 Special Golf Rate for the South on Bride and Groom.

Rng Rd 30 West into the Resort 4847A 19th Street Red Deer, AB T4R 2N7

Phone: Just 10 minutes 403 346-5629 or West of Red Deer e-mail: between Highway sydgray@shaw.ca 11 and Highway

11A on Range Road 283

RENTAL FEES & CAPACITY For rates please call 403-782-6668 or www.lacombe.ca Banquet facilities for groups up to 500 people.

For rates or more details call Gail @403-728-3010 Catering menu available upon request, Special requests welcome.

Visit our website www.mylakeresort.com Seats up to 140 guests

Seven great venues, to host your Dream Wedding including a one-ofa-kind outdoor venue. WIth on-site catering and audio visual support, the option to customize your layout and access to our DJ and decorating partners, we truly are your destination for wedding celebration!

Please contact us at 403.343.7800 or sales@westernerpark.ca or visit us online at westernerpark.ca

Fully Equiped Upgraded Kitchen with Commercial Gas Stove, Dishwasher, Cooler, Freezer, Double Sinks, Dishes, Coffee Urns, 8 Foot Rectangular Tables, Cushion Chairs, Stage, Bar, Washrooms, Ashpalt Parking Pad, Outdoor Barbeques, Firepit, Ample Parking with lots of Grassed Area for RV’s, Tents, etc.

Wheelchair Accessible.

For information please go to: www.poplarridgecommunitycenter.com for pictures, contracts, availability and costs Questions can be sent via the web site and will be promptly answered.

Capacity 240 Max.

To reserve your space in the 2016 Hall Rental Directory, call Pam at 403-314-4350 or email pbeardsworth@reddeeradvocate.com The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

11

7404975A28

FACILITY NAME

Banquet Facilities & Hall Rental Directory

2016

FACILITY NAME Historic Markerville Lutheran Church & Fensala Hall

RENTAL CONTACT Phone: 403-728-3006 1-877-728-3007 Email: admin@ historicmarkerville.com www.historicmarkerville.com

Kinsmen Community Centre

Elnora Community Centre

Golden Circle Senior Resource Centre

Town of Ponoka Phone: 403-783-4431 Email: town@ponoka. org Bookings can be made by contacting the Elnora Village Office: Monday through Friday 9:30–12:00 1:00–4:30 403.773.3922 Phone: 403-343-6074

LOCATION 30 minutes S.W. of Red Deer Located on the Medicine River in the Hamlet of Markerville.

5009-46 Ave. Ponoka, AB

2nd Avenue, Elnora, AB

4620-47A Ave. (Downtown) Red Deer Parking Lot access from 47A Ave.

Red Deer Festival Hall Cronquist House Operated by Red Deer Cultural Society

Phone: 403-346-0055 Fax: 403-347-8759 Email: rdchs@telus.net www.rdchs.com

AMENITIES

4214 58 St.

Bower Ponds Both located in Red Deer

Commercial Kitchen, Food & Bar Service Available, Stage & Sound System, Outdoor Patio, Playground, Wheelchair Accessible.

Unserviced Campground.

Round Banquet Tables, Cushioned Chairs, Stage w/Lighting & Sound, Wet Bar, Kitchen, Piano, Camping and Accomodations Nearby.

RENTAL FEES & CAPACITY Hall Seats 150 theatre style & 100 at tables Church seats 100

Please Contact for Fees and Availability Damage Deposit Required Capacity 250

Fully equipped and recently renovated commercial kitchen, bar, beautiful hard wood dance floor, ample parking, adjacent to the municipal campground which has 23 fully serviced sites, as well as, washroom and shower facilities.

Playground. WIFI, audio and video equipment.

For rates and more information please call 403-733-3922 or visit our website: http://elnorafacilities.weebly.com

Dining Room with Superb Dance Floor, Audio Visual System, Indoor and Outdoor Tables & Chairs, A/C, Washrooms, Catering, Ample Parking, Easy Access, Park Setting for Wedding Photos. Meeting Rooms Also Available.

Fees vary.

Damage deposit required.

Stage, Tables & Chairs, 1225 sq. ft. Hardwood Dance Floor, Wheelchair Accessible.

Meeting room - 40 people Hall Capacity 300 plus

Ideal for Small Weddings, Parties, Meetings, Seminars

Capacity 292

Please call for rates.

Capacity 150

Max 45 people Limited space available.

Call for viewings and rates.

To reserve your space in the 2016 Hall Rental Directory, call Pam at 403-314-4350 or email pbeardsworth@reddeeradvocate.com

12

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

Banquet Facilities & Hall Rental Directory FACILITY NAME

Spruce View Community Hall

2016

RENTAL CONTACT

LOCATION

CONTACT Sue Lapsley 403-391-2573

Highway 54 , Spruce View, AB

www.spruceview.com

Bower-Kin Community Hall

Penhold Memorial Hall

Phone: 403-340-3070

Phone: 403-886-4567

85 Boyce St. Red Deer (Bower)

Located just 8 minutes south of Red Deer on Hwy 2A 1123 Fleming Ave. in Penhold

Town of Blackfalds Community Hall and Multi-Plex Banquet Room

Phone: 403-885-4039

Hardwood dance floor and stage, full caterers kitchen & bar, meeting room, PA system, projector RV parking, close to Dickson Dam and other campgrounds, kids playground, wheelchair accessible

Round Tables, Chairs, Full Kitchen Appliances, Patio, Playground, Adjacent Park *Wheelchair Accessible/ Bathrooms

Commercial Kitchen with Steam Line, Bar, Coffee Facilities, Dishes, New Tables and Chairs, Excellent Dance Floor, Washrooms and Hall, Ample Parking, Covered Patio, Playground, Stage, Wheelchair Accessible.

Community Hall 4810 Womacks Road Multi-plex 5302 Broadway Avenue

AMENITIES

Full Kitchen, Dishes, Bar, Ice Machine, Cooler, Round and Rectangular Tables, PA System.

RENTAL FEES & CAPACITY

For more info and Rental Fees please contact Sue Lapsley 403-391-2573 or visit our website: www.spruceview.com Capacity 325

For Rates please call Booking at 403-340-3070 Capacity 100

Sun. - Thurs. Under 5 hours $250 8 a.m. - 3 a.m. - $446 Weekend Fri. 3 p.m. - Sun. 3 p.m. - $743 under 5 hours - $403 Non-ref. Booking Deposit - $150 Security Deposit - $250 Dish Deposit - $150 Capacity 225

For more information please contact Abbey Centre Guest Services 403-885-4039 www.blackfalds.com

To reserve your space in the 2016 Hall Rental Directory, call Pam at 403-314-4350 or email pbeardsworth@reddeeradvocate.com The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

13

Tips for a great best man toast

T

he best man toast can be one of the most memorable parts of a couple’s wedding. Sometimes a toast is memorable for its humor and heartfelt sense of appreciation for the groom and his bride, while other toasts are more memorable for all the wrong reasons.

One of the reasons best man toasts can be so unpredictable is that giving a best man toast is such a unique experience. It’s something many men never do, while those who do give a best man toast may only do it once in a lifetime. It’s understandable to be nervous when asked to give a best man toast, but there are a few tricks of the trade a best man can employ to calm those nerves and ensure his toast is memorable for all the right reasons.

Practice makes perfect Few people are capable of standing in front of a crowd of people and speaking off the cuff. A best man should take this into account and practice his speech before the big day. A spur-of-the-moment speech may provide an adrenaline rush, but such an endeavor may come off as if you didn’t care enough to put the effort into writing a thoughtful

toast ahead of time. In addition, practicing the toast once it’s been written will make you feel more comfortable and confident in front of the crowd. If possible, practice in front of a friend or family member so you can solicit feedback. A friend or relative might be able to help you fine-tune the speech, which in turn can calm your nerves once you’re handed the microphone.

Av o i d a l c o h o l Getting liquored up prior to your toast is a recipe for disaster.

Though it may seem like a good idea to employ alcohol to calm your nerves and lower your inhibitions, it’s not a good idea. Consuming alcohol before your toast increases the chance that you will end up embarrassing the bride and groom as well as yourself.

Get to the point

Being succinct should be a goal for a best man with regard to his toast. Avoid long-winded walks down Memory Lane in favor of a toast that thoughtfully cuts to the chase and lets everyone get back to celebrating.

Spin a yarn While it’s important to be brief, don’t be so brief that no one at the reception learns about your relationship to the groom. Share a humorous anecdote from your mutual past to illustrate the type of relationship you and the groom share with one another. This story should have an element of humor but don’t include anything too embarrassing, and all ex-girlfriends should be considered off-limits.

Congratulate the couple

Men and women who have Because nerves play such a attended their fair share of wedding receptions no doubt significant part in many best man have sat through a long-winded toasts, it can be easy to forget to toast from the best man or maid congratulate both the bride and of honor. Such toasts can bring groom. Don’t just toast the groom a festive reception to a grinding at the end of your best man speech; halt, and guests will likely tune toast his new bride as well. out before the b e s t m a n o r When planning your wedding you want maid of honor everything to be absolutely perfect. So Do We! gets to the point. la petite Jaune Fleur has established a reputation for Quality Wedding Flowers and Event Planning. We add a unique style and perspective to weddings and event in Red Deer and Area.

Call us today to book your wedding 403

340 0773

“Starting Marriage Strong”

PRE MARRIAGE PREPARATION • Information Evening • Four Prepare/ Enrich Group Sessions (2 hours each) • Couples Counselling historicmarkerville.com

14

1-877-728-3007

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

www.shalomcounselling.com 403.342.0339

Tame wedding day nerves

W

hen couples tie the knot, many changes are in store, many compromises will be made and many lasting memories will be created.

But in the weeks and months before their big days, couples can easily get caught up in the whirlwind of wedding planning, never taking inventory of their feelings until their wedding days have arrived.

Come their wedding days, couples should not be surprised if some nerves set in. A survey from the anxiety self-help resource The Fear Source indicated 71 percent of brides-to-be suffered from some type of nerves during the lead-up to their weddings. Ninety-two percent of brides experienced nerves on the day of the wedding or the evening before, while 66 percent reported that it affected their daily lives prior to their weddings or hampered their performance and enjoyment during the day itself.

According to Psych Central, a modern online voice for mental health information, emotional support and advocacy, pre-wedding jitters are common and can be the subconscious telling a person that something needs to be remedied.

Wedding nerves do not mean a wedding is doomed; it just means

certain issues may need to be worked through. The following are some ways to tame wedding day nerves.

Keep an open dialogue Speak with your future spouse about the things that may be causing your anxiety. Maybe you have doubts on financial choices or where you will be living after the wedding.

Communicating openly and honestly is one of the foundations of a strong relationship.

Slow down and breathe Wedding planning involves making many decisions, and sometimes couples move at breakneck speeds.

Make slowing down a priority. Try to enjoy a quiet dinner with just the two of you. When enjoying peaceful moments, take deep breaths, which can be calming and revitalizing. If need be, consider signing up for a yoga or tai chi class to force you to slow down.

Address performance anxiety It’s easy to build up the big day in your mind and hope that everything

goes according to plan. But it’s impossible to plan for each and every outcome on your wedding day. Focus on everything that can go right, rather than worrying about what might go wrong. Also, realize that your guests are your friends and family members who will be forgiving of any hiccups along the way. You’re bound to recover gracefully from any mishaps.

Work on confidence Wedding fears may stem from inadequate self-confidence. Give yourself a pep talk and surround yourself with positive people. Keep the worry-warts at arms’ length for the time being.

Recruit more help Weddings are huge undertakings, so it’s no surprise that couples sometimes feel overwhelmed. Ask reliable relatives or friends to double-check all of the last-minute details. This way you don’t feel it is all on your shoulders.

Wedding days nerves are to be expected and often have little to do with the decision to get married.

Planning such a big event can be nerve-wracking, but there are ways to combat any anxiety that builds up as the big day draws near.

Province of Alberta Marriage Commissioner

Performing Civil Marriages Sylvan Lake and Area For appointments call

Barb Fenske 5228-47A Ave. Sylvan Lake, AB T4S 1G5 (403) 887-5401 info@barbfenske.com www.barbfenske.com

The Red Deer Cultural Heritage Society offers two locations to accommodate Weddings & Receptions.

Festival Hall - Accommodates 400 • Dance Floor • Stage • Mezzanine • Choose Chooose Ch oose oo se your you o r own ow caterer

Cronquist House - Accommodates 50 • Ideal for the intimate occasion

To make your reservation at either location Phone 403-346-0055 • Fax 403-347-8759 • Email: rdchs@telus.net For more information visit our website www.rdchs.com The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

15

How to build a wedding registry

afraid to include items in a range of prices, from the inexpensive to the more costly, on your registry.

• Don’t abandon the registry after your big day. You won’t end up getting everything you include on your registry, but that doesn’t mean you should just forget about those items that never made their way into your home. Many retailers offer couples significant discounts on items from their registries that were never purchased, and those discounts may extend for as long as a year after the big day. Revisit your registry after the wedding to see if you can find great deals on those items you never received, and continue to do so until the registry expires.

find the lone brick and mortar store for your registry.

M

any once-popular wedding traditions have fallen by the wayside. But one wedding tradition that has withstood the test of time is the wedding registry.

Couples about to tie the knot still build a wedding registry so their guests know what to buy them as wedding gifts. This saves guests the trouble of agonizing over what to buy the couple getting hitched and also ensures that couples won’t receive two or more of the same item.

Building a registry can be fun, as couples can act like kids in a candy store and add items they might otherwise not be able to afford. But there is a method to building a registry that can ensure the process of giving and receiving gifts is comfortable and convenient for everyone involved.

• Choose a national chain. Many stores will allow couples to establish a registry, but it behooves couples to choose a national chain or chains for their registry. A local boutique store might sell several items you would love to have, but that store may only be accessible to guests who live nearby, and such stores may be more expensive than larger national chains that can afford to charge less for similar products. Choosing a national chain ensures all of your guests will be able to access and purchase a gift from your registry, and make those purchases without breaking the bank.

• Visit the stores and do your homework. Though some stores allow you to develop a registry entirely online, it still helps for couples to visit the store together and build their registries in the more traditional way. Visiting a store as opposed to browsing the store website allows you to touch and feel products, which can give you a more accurate idea of their quality. In addition to seeing the products in person, read online reviews of products before putting them on your registry so you can ensure you’re getting quality items.

Building a registry can be a fun activity for couples about to tie the knot. But there are some guidelines to follow to make the process go smoothly for guests and couples alike.

• Choose items that vary in price.

Many couples are sheepish about putting e x p e n s i v e items on their registries. That’s not surprising, as the cost of attending ounded by Tracy Irwin, a wedding, we create beautiful and especially one handcrafted works of art for that features lots every occasion. Each luxury of out-of-town cake is custom designed and guests, can be made from scratch in Sugar substantial. But

by Tracy’s health inspected some guests, such cake studio. as the bride and Tel: 403.680.7853 403 680 7853 groom’s parents contact@sugarbytracy.com and siblings, www.sugarbytracy.com may want to give a more high-end 7416181A28 741618 618 6181A28 18 81 1A28 8 gift, so don’t be

F

• Choose a store with an online presence. When choosing a store for your registry, it also helps to choose a store with an online presence that’s user-friendly. Ideally, pick an online retailer you have already had positive experiences with. This not only will make it easier for your guests, but also for you should you decide to return items down the road.

• Choose more than one store. You also want to choose more than one store when building a registry. Some guests will prefer to shop in-store rather than online, so you want to give them some options so they don’t have to drive far and wide to

16

WE ARE YOUR CANADIAN ROCKIES WEDDING DESTINATION

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

Located in beautiful Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta 1.888.527.9555

|

bayshoreinn.com |

Rehearsal dinner how-to M

any couples find their wedding rehearsal dinners to be relaxing respites from the whirlwind of wedding planning.

Such dinners enable the happy couple to slow down and enjoy themselves in a relatively casual gathering with their closest friends and family members.

Rehearsal dinners typically take place in the night or two before the wedding. The couple, members of their wedding party, the parents of the bride and groom and others involved in the wedding typically attend this dinner. The couple generally takes the time at the dinner to thank everyone for their contributions to the wedding and to offer some small gifts of appreciation. No rules govern rehearsal dinners, so couples have the freedom to plan the dinners as they see fit.

Rehearsal dinners often come immediately after the ceremony rehearsal, when the wedding party and the officiant go over the timing and details of the wedding. Make arrangements with the ceremony site and officiant prior to making dinner reservations.

Parents of the groom traditionally host the rehearsal dinner, so they will be integral in planning the event. That means couples should keep an open and gracious mind.

Remember, the rehearsal dinner doesn’t have to be a lavish affair, and it can be customized to any budget or preference.

Some couples feel that hosting rehearsal dinners in casual settings can make the dinner more comfortable for members of the wedding, who can use the dinner as an opportunity to mingle and get to know one another before the wedding. This will help to tame nerves and enable the wedding party to loosen up and enjoy themselves even more. Some people may be more inclined to socialize and have fun when they’re not worried about putting on airs.

Restaurants that have special meaning to the couple often make for great places to hold rehearsal dinners. The bride and groom can suggest their ideas, but ultimately it is the person handling the bill who

Marvin G. Pickering

has the final say. Couples who want greater control over the rehearsal dinner festivities can suggest hosting it themselves.

Despite its name, the rehearsal dinner doesn’t actually have to be a dinner, as couples can opt for meals at a different time of the day, like brunch or lunch. An earlier occasion gives guests plenty of time to get home and rest up for the festivities of the wedding to come.

Toasts are expected at the rehearsal dinner, but they tend to be spontaneous, off-the-cuff remarks. A couple with a good sense of humor might not mind being roasted at their rehearsal dinners.

The bride and groom should expect to say a few words of thanks to all in attendance, but remarks need not be too formal.

Rehearsal dinners may even feature a little entertainment. Techsavvy parents may put together a presentation with videos or photographs that chronicles the couple’s lives separately and their life together.

Rehearsal dinners provide an opportunity for couples and their families to spend time together before the larger festivities of the wedding pull them in multiple directions. Plus, they set a fun tone for the wedding weekend to come.

BIBLE BASED

CHRIST CENTRED

Marriage Commissioner

Res: 403-343-0223

Facilities available for weddings, meetings and other occasions.

web: totietheknot.com email: pickbet@shaw.ca

Please call for details.

DAVENPORT CHURCH OF CHRIST 68 Donlevy Avenue, Red Deer

MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS

403-347-3986

Registries

email - edklymdavenportcofc@gmail.com

We have a cupcake for every special occasion!

Book your Cupcake Wedding Today!

get frosted! #144 Erickson Dr. Red Deer

Gift Cards Delivery Available

403-346-1224 www.babycakesreddeer.com The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

17

Premier Limousine Services Central Alberta’s #1 Choice for Wedding Limousine Service

A LOCALLY OWNED est. 1995, PROFESSIONAL, SERVICE ORIENTED COMPANY

At Premier Limousine Services, we care about your special day and we understand that the vendors you choose to work with should be Experienced Professionals.

This is our commitment to you.

1-866-700-9299 Out of Town only Ask abou t our popu lar Limo Bus .

We house all of our Limousines indoors with our own professional detailing staff to assure your Limousine is 100% ready. Sparkling Clean and Smelling Sweet for that special day.

With an inhouse mechanic our Limousines are maintained on a regular basis so you will always receive Safe Reliable ON TIME Service.

Our Chauffeurs are licensed, welltrained Professionals, who arrive appropriately attired for the Ceremony.

We will always offer very competitive rates and the Very Best Value for your money.

(Seats 20 people)

Engagement & Wedding Announcements say it Loud & Clear in Classifieds

1-866-700-9299 Out of Town Only

403.309.3300 | classifieds@reddeeradvocate.com

Groom’s Tuxedo Special* when booking five others. *

FREE Groom’s Tuxedo Base Rental

See store for details

18

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

7359704L28

WWW.BKTUX.CA l 4912 - 35TH STREET, RED DEER l PH: 403.347.5961

78288A29

Red Deer’s Only In-store Inventory Will Ensure You A Perfect Fit

Give your ceremony a unique

touch S

teeped in tradition, weddings have featured many of the same components for centuries. Those about to tie the knot may feel somewhat limited in their ability to shape their weddings into unique celebrations of their relationships and love for one another. Although it may not seem like there are many opportunities to put your own stamp on the wedding, there are plenty of ways to do just that.

When looking to personalize your wedding ceremony, determine if there might be anything blocking you from doing so. For example, if yours will be a religious ceremony, there may be certain rites that need to be followed. Secular ceremonies may offer more opportunities to customize.

Music interludes

Choose music that connects with your personalities as a couple rather than selecting standard songs merely because they are the easier route. Work with the organist or other musicians and request that they perform or play musical pieces Vows are one of the easiest ways that you enjoy. to put a personal touch on your wedding. You can select the words you want to exchange during the ceremony as well as any readings during the service. Work with your Many couples like to incorporate officiant to narrow down particular candle-lighting components to their phrasing or sentiments that fit with your vision of the wedding and ceremonies. Lighting unity candles blends two families together into relationship. one in a symbolic way. Other couples choose different traditions, such as mixing two different-colored sands Wedding party members fulfill in a new vessel, to represent the certain roles during the ceremony, joining of two lives together. You can but they are not limited to those consider these types of additions for tasks alone. Consider asking your wedding ceremony or come up wedding party members or other with your own unique tradition. friends or family members to take on specialized roles in the wedding. Impart a special touch to a wedding They may be able to do certain ceremony in any number of ways. readings, escort guests to their Doing so will help set this special seats, light candles, or sing and day apart in the minds of guests and participate in other ways. make it even more memorable to look back on as a couple.

Vows

Candle lighting

Participants

The Pidherney Centre “Not just a Curling Facility”

A GREAT SELECTION OF DRESSES AND DESTINATION FASHIONS FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY AND HONEYMOON.

The Pidherney Centre can now accommodate your wedding reception.

We also have a full time caterer on staff.

helping you make fashion decisions for over 3 decades

LIKE US ON

Phone: 403-346-3777 Email: curling@reddeercurling.ca Website: www.reddeercurling.ca

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

19

747103A28

www.cobbsclothing.com | 403-887-2727

Please contact us for more information: 7402393A28

Located in Bay 107 of the Cobb’s Block downtown Sylvan Lake 5015-50th Street

Seating your wedding guests

W

eddings are filled with many emotions: happiness, excitement and anticipation, to name a few. With all of the positive emotions a wedding may drum up, in the mix there may be a few negative ones, including feelings of being overwhelmed at all the details that need to be completed on a deadline.

One aspect of wedding planning that tends to send people into panic is wedding reception seating arrangements. The thought of having 200 friends and family members together under one roof -- and then attempting to seat them next to an acceptable group of people -- can cause some couples to hyperventilate.

Every family has its ups and downs, and there are certain people who get along well and a few who clash. Ensuring that a wedding is memorable for all the right reasons (and not for the brawl at table 3) is why seating arrangements are so important.

Many couples can use a little advice when seating guests, while others would love another

The Kerry Wood Nature Centre & Historic Fort Normandeau offer scenic locations for the perfect wedding Wedding Day Packages from $85 to $199

Wedding Day Packages from $85 to $199 Site rentals wedding photography $20/hour Wedding DayforPackages from $85 to $199 Site rentals for wedding photography $20/hour Site rentals for wedding photography $20/hour

Contact our bookings clerk for more information 403-346-2010 ext. 104 www.waskasoopark.ca

20

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

person to handle the seating arrangements for them.

Here are some guidelines for setting up reception seating arrangements.

•

Place yourselves, as well as the bridal party, at a separate table that is in a prime location in the room. Be sure to allow the spouses or dates of bridal party members at the same table so couples remain together.

•

Some couples choose to seat both sets of parents at one table together -- the parents’ table.

Grandparents may also be seated at this table, depending on the number of people each table can accommodate.

•

If children under the age of 7 are invited, they should be seated with their parents. Children between ages 7 and 14 can be seated at a separate kids’ table.

•

Be mindful of guests with disabilities or mobility issues. Seat them close to the door, bathrooms or food station.

• Instead of separating the bride and the groom’s family to separate sides, intermingle the tables to promote conversation.

• Consider arranging guests by common interests at each table, seating business associates or parents’ friends together.

• Ta k e i n t o consideration people who have relationship rifts and try to seat them separately. But don’t stress about this too much because it won’t be possible to accommodate everyone. You’ll have to hope that at your wedding a certain level of decorum will preside.

• I t ’s n o t u n h e a r d of to let guests seat themselves. This takes the pressure of finding a seat for everyone off of you as a couple and enables you to think about the other tasks at hand. This can take place at a buffet wedding or a smaller affair.

Wedding good luck charms

C

ouples’ wedding days are special moments, ones they hope pave the way to a life filled with happiness and good fortune.

That’s why the bride and groom surround themselves with close friends and family who want to celebrate and support their new life joined together.

Perhaps due to superstition or tradition, many couples employ some wedding day strategies to increase their good luck. The following are some of the symbols that couples may want to keep an eye out for on the day they walk down the aisle.

• Grooms may want to give a coin to the first person they see on the way to their weddings. This is another symbol of good luck.

• Some couples plan to marry during a full moon, because that can symbolize good luck and good fortune.

• On a couple’s wedding day, tears from a bride or a child during the ceremony is considered lucky.

English folklore suggests that brides who discover spiders in their gowns are in for some good luck.

• The Chinese believe that lighting fireworks at their wedding ceremonies chases away evil spirits.

• It’s good luck for the bride A red umbrella also might be held to see a dove on the way to over a Chinese bride to keep bad the wedding because doves spirits at bay. symbolize peace and prosperity.

• Many grooms do not see their Because doves mate for life, this brides in their wedding gowns symbol is doubly beneficial on a before their wedding ceremonies, couple’s wedding day, as it can feeling it is bad luck if they do. be a harbinger of a long, happy Many brides also do not wear their marriage and home. complete wedding outfits prior to • Some brides believe sugar their big day. cubes tucked into their wedding gloves leads to a sweet union.

• Ancient Romans were so concerned with ensuring good luck that they actually studied pig entrails to determine the luckiest time to marry.

If they consulted with the English, they might determine that a wedding shouldn’t take place on a Saturday, which is unlucky. English tradition states Wednesday is the best day to get married.

• In Holland, wellwishers would plant pine trees outside of newlyweds’ homes as a symbol of fertility and luck.

Happily Ever After

Begins Here

We have seven great venues to host your dream wedding, including Harvest Gardens a one-of-a-kind outdoor venue!

Call us today to plan your next celebration!

403.343.7800 sales@westernerpark.ca westernerpark.ca

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

7410282A28

• Hindu tradition states that rain on a wedding day is good luck. Rain is believed to be a symbol of fortune and abundance, especially after times of drought. What’s more, rain can foretell a strong marriage. That’s because a wet knot is more difficult to untie.

21

After party planning pointers Choose a place within walking distance or to the reception Guests have likely been indulging in alcohol during the wedding, and safety should always be a priority. If only a few people are going out, you may be able to pile into a cab, but if your affair will be attended by more than a handful of guests, choose a venue close by so it’s easy for guests to get there and get home.

N

Limit the food and drink choices

owadays, many wedding guests are not ready to call it a night after the deejay plays the last dance at the reception. After parties have grown increasingly popular, but planning an after party is not necessarily as simple as pointing guests to a nearby watering hole.

Ask servers to bring a few pitchers of beer or sangria and finger foods. This will help avoid disagreements over trying to tally up and split the bill afterward.

After parties can be anything a couple wants them to be. They can be a bunch of friends toasting marshmallows over a fire pit or a night of dancing at a club. But it pays for couples to heed a few after party pointers.

If you’re ready to get out of wedding finery, by all means change into something more comfortable. You probably will enjoy yourself more at the after party if you can mingle in more comfortable attire.

Go comfortably

Take advantage of hotel services.

Many hotels have conference rooms or attached bars and restaurants that make perfect gathering places for an after party. Make arrangements with the hotel concierge or the front desk in advance.

Delegate responsibilities A busy bride and groom may not have the time or the inclination to plan another party. If guests want to continue celebrating, put the task in the hands of a third party or volunteer.

Leave whenever you want Partygoers will eventually need some sleep. Feel free to leave the after party whenever you want.

Usually once a few people begin to disperse, the rest of the group will call it a night.

After parties are growing in popularity. Those planning on celebrating into the early hours of the morning can start thinking creatively.

• Custom Balloon Décor • Weddings • Anniversaries • Birthdays • Corporate Events Balloons – Flowers – Party Supplies

403-887-4525 www.magicalmoments.ca a

22

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

7416174A29

#6 160 Hewlett Park Landing, Sylvan Lake

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

23

Beautiful Weddings...

Beautiful Setting!

Canyon offers a venue that is exclusively yours! You don’t have to trek to the mountains to get a ski chalet/lodge experience. Enjoy the spectacular view from the breathtaking river valley just minutes from Red Deer. The rustic lodge features a wrap-around deck and stone wood burning fire places for your private ceremony or reception. Functions are held throughout the summer and fall.

• • • •

Accommodates 50 to 250 guests.

Full banquet services.

Able to bring own alcohol for bar and set price.

Customized buffet dinners.

403-346-7003 canyonski.ca/wedding

24

The Advocate’s Wedding Guide JANUARY 28, 2016

7410296A28

Call our wedding consultants at 403 346 7003 for further details today.