ridal B confidential l o n d o n . s t. t h o m a s . s a r n i a . c h a t h a m . w i n d s o r . e s s e x
Win trip
local wedding SERVICES
a For
Bride
Two!
of the month contest
2AMAZING
photos of 2010 weddings
STORIES
“... she never got to wear her gown” “... how was I going to get down the aisle”
6
LOCAL FASHIONS
photographed in London by cover winners sponsored by
PAGES OF
Abela Photography
Transat Holidays and
Marlin Travel Sarnia
Located in Windsor/Tecumseh
www.lacucina 2010 .com
La Cucina 2010 “A Little Taste of Italy”
Seating for up to 200 guests Private Room Available for up to 90 guests Work with our chef to create your own menu 1614 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh Town Plaza 519-739-2635 . lacucina@cogeco.net
find everything you need for your wedding
section
locally... with our directory style magazine
1 2 3
page 12
london st. thomas
section
sarnia chatham page 144
windsor essex
photography by: Abela Photography
Photo Shoot Day 14 Cover Draw Day 56
This year’s winner
Ashley Radychewky
REAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Sarnia/Chatham
page 66
section
London/St. Thomas cover winner Sophia Rafol
Sarnia/Chatham cover winner Ashley Radychewsky
photography by: Nicki Gould Real Photography
Photo Shoot Day 68 Cover Draw Day 78
Windsor/Essex cover winner Emilynne muldoon photography by: Chalet Studio
Photo Shoot Day 146 Cover Draw Day 152
Before you say “I do”...
Visit Merle Norman for a personalized bridal consultation. We’ll determine the ideal skin care regime and makeup shades to help you create a blushing bridal glow! Call for an appointment today! 563 Front St. N., Sarnia 519-337-9998 www.glassandpillarspa.com merlenorman.com
Bridal confidential l o n d o n . s t. t h o m a s . s a r n i a . c h a t h a m . w i n d s o r . e s s e x
Win trip
local wedding SERVICES
a For
Bride
Two!
of the month contest
2
photos of 2010 weddings
AMAZING STORIES
“... she never got to wear her gown”
6
6 Win a trip for two 8 Bride of the Month 68 She never got to wear her gown 113 6 pages of local fashions 184 How was I going t o get down the aisle?
PAGES OF
LOCAL FASHIONS
“... how was I going to get down the aisle”
photographed in London by cover winners sponsored by
on the cover
Abela Photography
Transat Holidays and
Marlin Travel Sarnia
cover models
contents
events
Our Winners (from left) Ashley Radychewsky . Sarnia/Chatham Sophia Rafol . London/St. Thomas Emilynne Muldoon . Windsor/Essex
8 Editor’s Note 10 On Our Website 16 Cover Shoot Photos 214 Service Directory
30 The Gay Wedding Show 40 London’s Premier Bridal Shows 180 Leamington’s Premier Wedding Show
cover credits
articles
Photographer: Abela Photography
23 Theme Weddings Reverend Dan MacDonald
160 The Largest Casino In S.W. Ontario Caesars Windsor
Makeup Artist: N U Hair & Makeup Studio
37 Popular First Dance Songs Music Central Entertainment
162 Ordering Your Wedding Cake Renée’s Fine Cakes
Hairstylists: Ashley - Total Hair & Body Care Sophia - Side Street Salon Emilynne - Salon Attitude
48 Why Frame Your Treasured Pictures? Reflections Picture Plus Framing
176 Advice to First Time Buyers Maria Philpott
55 Weddings Taiwanese Style Jessie Liu
185 Perfection of Design Our Place Ladies Fashions
Annual Publication 2011 - 2012 Issue
58 Engaged to the Editor Sarah Guirguis
191 Wedding Day Glow Tips Glow Makeup Studio
Published by: Bridal Confidential Ltd.
63 Wedding Wines Wine Lovers
206 Questions to ask a Prospect Caterer Mezzo Ristorante
84 Victorian Tea Party Karen Callies
207 Be The Most Beautiful Bride Fresh Medical Spa
134 Trip Tips & Packing Essentials Marlin Travel Sarnia
211 A Winery Wedding! Pelee Island Winery
Editor/Marketing Coordinator: Jay Cameron Graphic Design/Layout: Ann Conroy Bridal Confidential Ltd. Box 787, Brights Grove, ON N0N 1C0 1-888-869-8281 www.bridalconfidential.com bridal@cogeco.ca We accept no responsibility for advertisers claims, omissions or errors. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.
throughout
196 Windsor’s Wedding Shows
photos of local 2010 weddings
Let Herbal One help you look your best on your special day! powerful herbal supplements designed for weight loss curb your appetite
~ increase your energy levels
Lose the weight you need and wow them when you walk down that aisle. Safe, effective and healthy weight loss system where you can lose 2 to 7 pounds per week. It’s your day to shine and nothing says beautiful bride more than confidence. Our counsellors partner with clients to develop a successful weight management lifestyle and will select the right program specific to each client.
Bridal Party Specials www.herbalone.com Wonderland & Oxford
519-657-0011
Dundas & Clarke
519-659-0010
Sarnia: 889 Exmouth St. 519-336-5550
Wellington & Baseline
Huron & Highbury
519-633-0011
Strathroy: 323 Caradoc St., S.
519-432-4401
519-245-3911
cover brides
how to win a trip for two! and be one of our
Every year Bridal Confidential holds three cover draws, one for London/St. Thomas, one for Sarnia/Chatham and one for Windsor/Essex. One couple from each area wins an all inclusive trip for two and the winning bride appears on our cover. This year our cover draws will be hosted by three different wedding events.
Who is eligible?
If you were married or are getting married in 2011, 2012 or 2013, you are eligible.
How do I enter?
Attend the cover draw in your area and fill out a ballot at the Bridal Confidential booth.
how can I win?
This is a random draw, anyone can win!
Register online and we will send you details of the draw in your area - www.bridalconfidential.com
london/st. thomas area cover draw will take place at:
Sarnia/Chatham area cover draw
A “Special� Bridal Show Ukraina Country Club 3375 Gore Rd., Dorchester April 22, 2012 - 11:30 to 4:00
True Fantasies Bridal Expo Hiawatha Race Track 1780 London Line, Sarnia February 24, 2012 - 5:30 to 9:00
will take place at:
Windsor/Essex cover draw
2 chances to win
Attend both the Fall Wedding Event and the Wedding Extravaganza, fill out a ballot at each event to have your name entered twice. The draw will take place at the Wedding Extravaganza in January.
The Fall Wedding Event Caboto Club 2175 Parent Ave., Windsor September 22 & 23, 2011 5:30 to 9:00 each evening
Wedding Extravaganza Caboto Club 2175 Parent Ave., Windsor January 14 & January 15, 2012 10:00 to 5:00 each day
For over 25 years, the face experts at Caryl Baker Visage have specialized in professional bridal makeup applications for the bride and her entire party.
LOOK YOUR VERY BEST ON YOUR SPECIAL DAY! Come in to our Salon or in the comfort of your home. Call Salon for details.
Windsor 3100 Howard Ave. 519-966-5480 cbvisage@bellnet.ca Sarnia 1380 London Rd. 519-542-0035 jj.crawford@sympatico.ca www.carylbakervisage.com
January February March April May June July August September October November December
Bride
of the
Month New for 2012
One bride for each month will be featured in our next issue as the ‘Bride of the Month’. If you were married in 2011, submit your favourite wedding photo to us, along with your wedding date, city and photographer’s name to jay@bridalconfidential.com. Photos should only feature the bride. Once your photo is received it will be added to Bridal Confidential’s website gallery.
Ask your friends to vote for you on our Facebook Poll page. The brides with the most votes will appear in our 2012 issue!
editor’s note In our modern society, it’s truly amazing how love and happiness have the power to make our everyday struggles seem less significant. Despite the devastating events our world has faced this past year, millions of people from across the globe watched in awe as Prince William and Catherine Middleton became husband and wife. The Royal Wedding was a pleasant escape from our day to day worries and it gave us the chance to celebrate in joyful unison with our loved ones. There is no other occasion or spectacle that ties together peace, love and unity than that of weddings. Bridal Confidential is proud to produce its eleventh edition, while incorporating a new concept going into 2012. Our cover brides will no longer be brides from the previous year, but will now be brides-to-be. In 2012, local brides from 2011 to 2013 will be eligible to grace the cover of Bridal Confidential. Starting in 2013, only future brides will have the opportunity to be on the cover. As always, local brides and grooms of the previous year will be displayed throughout our magazine, as well as quotes, interesting facts and helpful wedding tips. We believe that this new concept will resonate throughout our local communities, as newly engaged couples will have the opportunity to get even more excited about their upcoming wedding and win an all-inclusive trip for two – whether it is for their engagement or honeymoon! I myself got engaged this past year to my best friend, so I can relate to the overwhelming joy and unusual butterflies one gets when becoming someone else’s fiancé. One cannot prepare themselves for the incredible feeling of finding ‘the one’. The one you will spend the rest of your days with, the one who never leaves your mind, the one you can trust with your life, the one who does all the little things that make your days better, and the one you will embrace with everlasting love every step of the way. With a diverse selection of local wedding providers from London/Middlesex, St. Thomas/Elgin, Sarnia/ Lambton, Chatham-Kent and Windsor/Essex, we hope our bridal directory will help guide you towards your dream wedding. To all of you destined to be together, Bridal Confidential congratulates you on your engagement and we wish you health, happiness and a lifetime of pure, unmatched love. From one fiancé to another, good luck and enjoy the rest of your lives together!
Jay Cameron
on our website
w w w. b r i d a l c o n f i d e n t i a l . c o m
REGISTRATION register with us and we wil keep you informed on upcoming bridal shows and cover draws
bridal Directory
News & Events upcoming wedding events, cover draws, contests, etc.
Videos
videos from our cover draws and cover shoot days
a complete listing of all the wedding related services you wil need with links to their sites
FREE COPY a list of local businesses where you can pick
Gallery photos of local weddings, fashion pages & Bride of the Month nominees
up your free copy of Bridal Confidential
Social Media find Bridal Confidential on Facebook and enter our ‘Bride of the Month’ contest. You can also follow us on Twitter, YouTube and Blogger
contact us we are always delighted to hear from our readers
Accessory colour match guaranteed
London White Oaks Mall South Entrance 519-668-6650 Sarnia 746 Exmouth St. Across from Tim Horton’s 519-336-3114 Chatham 10 King St. W. Behind Enchantment Bridal 519-351-9484 Additional stores throughout Ontario
Mention this ad when registering your wedding to receive: Free Grooms Tuxedo Rental + $30 OFF Each Additional Attendants Order + 40% off Wedding Invitations
www.budgowan.com
1-866-784-6210 London 551 York St Head Office & Superstore 519-672-6210
Magical Weddings
magical weddings happen in memorable places
gentle waterfalls, rock gardens, and exotic trees
underneath a glass ceiling in a multi-tiered atrium oasis.
With our creative and original ideas, Couples receive an unforgettable wedding experience that is uniquely theirs. We offer stunning settings where brides are radiant, guests are pampered and receptions are distinctive. This is your wedding... make it a magical day to remember.
Best Western Lamplighter Inn & Conference Centre 591 Wellington Rd., S. London 519-681-7151 www.lamplighterinn.ca please contact one of our wedding specialists to make your dreams a reality!
london/St. Thomas winner
Sophia's
photo shoot day by Sophia Rafol Like most brides-to-be, I first discovered Bridal Confidential while planning my 10-10-10 wedding. The magazine is great because of their vast directory of local vendors, pictures and of course, their amazing contests. For the 2009 edition, I had actually entered my proposal story to the magazine and low and behold I get an email saying, “Congratulations! Your engagement story has been chosen as the winner of the Bridal Confidential engagement contest.“ I was ecstatic! My husband, Aaron, had joked around that it would be too perfect and complete if we also won the cover draw. Too perfect indeed, luck was on our side at Tru Restaurant when they announced our names. Aaron was the one jumping and screaming ...I was too in shock. This wonderful experience started at the Marienbad Restaurant for dinner on June 1st. Aaron and I dined the night away and ordered crab cakes, schnitzel and ended with a delicious strawberry crepe. We came on a great night as the restaurant had a band entertaining. Afterwards, we checked in at the Hampton Inn by Hilton. It was a beautiful jacuzzi suite and we woke up to a buffet breakfast in the morning. And yes, as they advertised on TV, I had to have one of their fresh waffles. Doug (from Anchor Video) and Bill (from A Universal Limousine) were very prompt and punctual to start a very busy and exciting day. Bill had pulled up to the hotel in a very sleek stretched SUV and was dressed very professionally in his black and white attire. Doug started capturing our day from our suite to entering the limo and at every location afterwards. I can’t wait to see the final copy. Both were very friendly and made our day run as smooth as possible. Our first stop on June 2nd was at Steel Grill Catering, they provided a delectable tray filled with cheeses, fruits, homemade spreads and croissants. Next, we stopped at Scizzorhands to get my manicure. Justina did a great job on my nails and helped me pick out a vibrant fuchsia. I especially enjoyed the hand and wrist massage! Afterwards, we headed to McInnis Flowers & Gifts to pick up my bouquet for the photo shoot. Ellyssa had a lovely orchid creation
waiting for me. She read my mind because I had an orchid bouquet for my wedding as well. We drove to the Marienbad Restaurant and enjoyed some refreshments and salads in their courtyard. After the energy boost, it was time to look like a bride again. We went to Side Street Salon where Suke and company greeted us with such an enthusiastic welcome. Jennifer went straight to work and put my hair in numerous rollers, she definitely got a workout from it. Once set, Kristina worked away on my ‘big and dramatic’ up-do and was able to use my hair accessories from my wedding day. A million hair pins later, my hair was done and it turned out beautiful. Our next stop was at N U Hair & Makeup Studio for my make-up. Nina was such a pleasure to work with and I had a wonderful time at the salon. She did an awesome job on my makeup and I was looking picture ready. I just had to change into my wedding dress to complete the look. Our last stop was the Plunkett Estate for the photo shoot. Darlene and Michael from Abela Photography were energetic and ready to get started. They both gave great direction during the whole shoot and made me feel comfortable. This was the highlight of the day and was definitely a déjà vu from my actual big day. Darlene emailed me the pictures a couple weeks later and they did a phenomenal job. I had lots of favourites to choose from! Aaron and I plan to go to the Mayan Riviera on our one year anniversary in October. We thank Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel (Sarnia) for this 7 night adventure at the El Dorado Spa and Resort. Lastly, we want to say THANK YOU to Bridal Confidential and all the sponsors for this amazing experience. We are very grateful and will never forget such a great day and memorable trip. p Sophia’s Sponsors Vacation for Two: Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia Photographer: Abela Photography Hair Style: sIDE STREET SALON Makeup: n u HAIR & MAKEUP STUDIO Limo Service: a uNIVERSAL lIMOUSINE Gift Basket: sTEEL GRILL CATERING Manicure: SCIZZORHANDS Overnight Stay: HAMPTON INN BY HILTON Dinner for Two: mARIENBAD RESTAURANT Gown Preservation: RICHMOND CLEANERS Videos: ANCHOR VIDEO PRODUCTIONS View photos and videos at www.bridalconfidential.com
JAMAICA – WHERE HEARTS BEAT FASTER! The ultimate honeymoon spot, let Jamaica sweep you away with its welcoming smiles, sun drenched beaches, hot reggae beats and sultry nights filled with promise. Choose from a varied selection of stunning resorts, including Transat Distinction and Luxury Collection properties, and take advantage of special offers and exclusive privileges.
Book a TRANSAT DISTINCTION all-inclusive package and receive:
Book a LUXURY COLLECTION all-inclusive package and receive:
• Welcome cocktail and cold towel upon arrival • Room in a dedicated section • Bathrobes and slippers • Discounts on golf or at the spa And more!
• Luxurious room with whirlpool or hydromassage bathtub • Gourmet dining • Unlimited premium brand drinks • 24-hour room service And more!
Book and experience the Luxury Included® Difference:
Fly direct from London Daily direct flights from Toronto
• All meals at up to 14 speciality restaurants per resort • Unlimited premium brand drinks including Beringer® house wines And much more!
BRIDAL CONFIDENTIAL EXCLUSIVE Book with Marlin Travel Lambton Mall Get Free Hawkeye Duffle Bag†
For more information on how to book your dream honeymoon contact your honeymoon specialists at Marlin Travel, Lambton Mall today. Lambton Mall – 1380 London Rd, Sarnia
519-542-3424 or 1-866-542-3424 24 *While supplies last. Transat Holidays is a division of Transat Tours Canada Inc., and is a registered travel wholesaler in Ontario (Reg #50009486) with offices at 191 The West Mall, Suite 800, Etobicoke, ON M9C 5K8. Printed July 2011
ne
yn l i m
E
ey
l Ash
ia
h Sop
bridal confidential’s
CoverShoot
p h o to g r a p h s p r o v i d e d b y a b e l a p h o to g r a p h y
On our cover shoot day, our three winners met in London and had a once in a lifetime experience! Abela Photography and Anchor Video were there to capture every moment. Being escorted by Ron from Grandeur Limousine, we set off on our adventure. For more photos and the video, visit us at w w w. b r i d a l c o n f i d e n t i a l . c o m
We began our amazing day at Side Street Salon where our winners had their hair styled by their own individual stylist from their area. Our London/St. Thomas winner Sophia, had her hair styled by Side Street Salon (London). Our Sarnia/Chatham winner Ashley, was styled by Total Hair & Body Care (Petrolia) and Emilynne, our Windsor/Essex winner, by Salon Attitude (LaSalle). Next, N U Hair & Makeup Studio (London) provided their studio and were the makeup artists for all three of our winners. The girls donned their wedding gowns and off we went touring around the city of London, having a great time and getting some fabulous shots.
What the girls thought... “The Bridal Confidential group photo shoot was definitely a fun day! It was great to meet the other cover brides, Emilynne and Ashley. It’s true what they say ‘the more the merrier.” Sophia “The photo shoot in London was such a great time. It was great to actually meet the other cover brides and work with them for this amazing magazine.” Ashley “We had an absolute blast spending the afternoon prancing around downtown London getting photographed by Abela Photography in our gorgeous wedding gowns. It was definitely an experience I will always remember!!” Emilynne
Perfect for your wedding guests. Bride and Groom receive a complimentary stay in our split level loft honeymoon suite when booking ten or more rooms.
experts in hosting your rehearsals and bridal showers
Wedding Group Rates Wedding Package Specials Available ~ Restaurant & Lounge Free Parking ~ Indoor Heated Pool, Whirlpool & Fitness Facility
855 Wellington Rd., London . 519-668-7900 . radisson.com/londonca
Your Guests are Our Specialty
complimentary comfort sunshine breakfast
. fridges and microwaves complimentary wireless high-speed internet free parking . whirlpool tubs available complimentary in-room coffee hair dryer . iron and board pay-per-view movies free local calls
1156 Wellington Rd., London 519-685-9300 www.choicehotels.ca/cn300
1100 Wellington Rd. S. 519-681-1240 1-866-266-8266 sales@daysinnlondon.com www.daysinnlondon.com
a modern day oversight In our not too distant past, the majority of our families and friends (ergo wedding guests) lived in close proximity. A guest from out of town was the exception rather than the rule, so the engaged couple didn’t have to give much consideration as to where their guests would stay... things have changed. Today’s average wedding brings loved ones from all over the world. Although you won’t find it listed on most wedding planning time lines, arranging for guest accommodations has become high on the ‘to do’ list. Some guests will make their own arrangements but others, if they don’t know your area, may not even know where to start, and it’s up to you to help them out. Consider your guests’ requirements and inform them of their best alternatives. Give your guests: names, contact information and a map of the area. Offer to make arrangements for guests, especially if there is any possibility of a language barrier.
candles...
F i n i s h y o u r s p e c i a l d a y o ff r i g h t
If lighting candles will be part of your ceremony, make it someone’s duty to check the candles beforehand. New candles can have their wick lodged in the wax and you won’t want to deal with this when you are trying to light them. Ask your ‘candle person’ to be sure wicks are upright and easy to light. Safety first! It may seem to be a harmless little candle but it’s fire and it’s hot. If you are having a children’s table, don’t place candles on it. I can assure you, if it’s not a minor burn it will be wax all over the linen. Fire is just too much of a temptation. Your adult guests may know not to put their fingers in the fire, but they could accidentally place a dinner napkin too close to an open flame. Candles on tables should be in some form of heat resistent, protective containers. Scented candles? Yes, but not too many. Odours from the food and flowers may conflict with your candles and make the added scent overwhelming.
Stefanie & Sunay ~ July 23, 2010 Photograph by: Abela Photography
Pamper yourself in one of our spacious King Jacuzzi suites. Wedding Group Rates Available
CALL TO BOOK YOUR ROMANCE PACKAGE TODAY 1-888-999-4404
we love having you here.® 840 EXETER ROAD • LONDON, ONTARIO N6E 1L5 T: (519) 649-6500 F: (519) 649-6501 www.londonontario.hamptoninn.com
A perfect wedding... is an organized wedding When you become engaged, the first thing to do (OK tell your friends first) is to get a notebook, or better still, a wedding planning book and keep notes on everything. From phone numbers, dates and contact persons to where you saw a gown you liked - nothing is too insignificant. With wedding planning uppermost in your mind, you will undoubtedly have some great ideas pop into your head... make notes on them too.
The natural choice for your wedding. Bringing people together is what we do best.
Complimentary bridal suite on us! *special conditions apply*
Comfort throughout the hotel... :: studio, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom/2-bath suites :: fully equipped kitchen in every suite :: free daily hot and cold breakfast :: free dinner receptions Mon-Thur evenings :: free parking, free local phone calls :: free hi-speed wireless internet :: indoor heated pool :: 24-hr fitness centre and business centre :: outdoor BBQ pavilion with putting green SM
Natalie & Taylor ~ October 9, 2010 Photograph by: Matt Goodale
Get comfortable. STAYBRIDGE SUITES LONDON
824 Exeter Road, London, On N6E 1L5 Canada T 519.649.4500 F 519.649.4508 www.staybridge.com/londonontario
The perfect location for your Wedding Night or for out-of-town guests! Mention this ad to receive one night in a Superior King Suite at a special rate of $135.00 per night including bottle of wine, chocolates parking* *Advance reservation required by contacting hotel - ask for Bridal Confidential coupon package. Not available during UWO Homecoming Weekend or New Year’s Eve. Valid until Dec. 30, 2011.
Farah & Doug ~ November 6, 2010 Photograph by: Memories Photography
For special guest rates contact 519-642-2303 or sales@stationparkinn.ca Located on Richmond Row 242 Pall Mall St. at Richmond, London 1-800-561-4574 hotel@stationparkinn.ca www.stationparkinn.ca
To make one, there must be two. Unknown Author
For Your Wedding Guests Laurie & Tyler ~ July 24, 2010 Photograph by: Memories Photography
complimentary
suite for the bride and groom . continental breakfast wedding card inserts mini fridges
.
.
wireless high-speed internet
parking
.
local calls
1120 Dearness Drive, London 519-680-1024 www.choicehotels.ca/cn299
Natalie & Geoff ~ May 8, 2010 Photograph by: Kyndra Tremblett
Ukrainian Centre london
“There are four questions of value in life... What is sacred?
centrally located, modern banquet facilities for
Of what is the
50 to 325 guests
spirit made? What is worth Johanna & George ~ October 10, 2010 Photograph by: Petro Photo Photography Boutique
living for, and what is worth dying for? The answer to each is the same. Only love.” Don Juan deMarco
247 Adelaide St., S. (North of Commissioners) London 519-686-9811 www.ukraniancentre.ca
Stoneridge Inn
& Conference Centre
Our elegant ballrooms feature soft colours, warm accents and cozy fireplaces. Ideal for intimate weddings from 20 to 200.
Christina & Matt ~ August 21, 2010 Photograph by: Memories Photography
helping you celebrate life’s most significant
moments, please call to book your appointment with our coordinators today.
Beautiful, century-old wedding chapel on-site 6675 burtwistle lane , london ( hwy 401 & hwy 4) 519-652-6022 1-888-471-2378 www . stoneridgeinn . com
The Rose Chapel
Celebrating Life’s Most Significant Moments Krysten & James ~ July 17, 2010 Photograph by: Dream Catcher Photo
6700 burtwistle lane london 519-652-6022 www.rosechapel.ca
Robert Miedema Photography - www.mrphotographer.ca
Maltese -CanadianClub of London
...where memories are made
for elegant surroundings & outstanding service private viewing and consultation
~
seating for up to 200 guests
70 Charterhouse Crescent, London . 519-451-8563 www.maltesecanadianclublondon.webs.com
L
ove has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get - only with what you are expecting to give - which is everything. Katherine Hepburn
Introducing the West Lawn Marquee Tent...
An outdoor venue package for 200+ guests on 10 acres of a quiet, country Inn. We offer group rates for accommodations as well as exquiste dining packages on or offsite.
Contact the Events Conceirge to start planning your wedding!
Nikki & Dave ~ July 10, 2010 Photograph by: Lech Witkowski
receiving line The receiving line is held just after the ceremony, or at the reception site as guests arrive. Although you may try to speak to each guest during your reception, it may not be possible. The receiving line gives you an opportunity to greet everyone and to thank them for coming to your special day. When searching for your perfect ceremony or reception site, make sure it has adequate space so that your guests will not be left waiting outside or tightly bunched into a lobby. Keep an eye on the entrance and if guests are getting seriously backed up, reduce the number of people in your receiving line. The only people that really need to be there are you and your new hubby. If there is the slightest chance you won’t remember someone’s name, review your guest list a few days before the wedding.
no receiving line
940 Queen St. East, St. Marys 519-284-4140 1-800-409-3336
events@stonewillow.com www.stonewillow.com
To receive or not to receive - that is your choice. However, if you choose not to have a receiving line, make every effort to speak to each guest. Time will not permit long conversations, but a simple “glad to see you and thank you for coming” will let your guests know they are appreciated.
THEME
Weddings
service
.
quality
.
detail
.
attention
by Reverend Dan MacDonald from Wedding Day Ceremonies
This year it’s theme weddings and the most popular theme is marriage in the garden, at the park or in the back yard. Getting married just got a shot in the arm. “Let’s try living together,” has been the trend the last few years, but now more and more couples are excited about making it permanent. Why? Well one of the reasons behind this growing trend to make it permanent with a wedding ceremony is that many Officiants and Ministers are offering a variety of wedding ceremonies. The most popular of these is the wedding garden ceremony. The bride-to-be along with her groom can select a western theme, a retro nineties theme or even a Cinderella theme for their wedding ceremony. Why? Because it’s fun and different and makes the whole event memorable. While some Officiants and Ministers shy away from theme weddings, the progressive ones embrace them and find that they are booked more and more by young couples. But book early as some of us are finding a demand for three, four or even five weddings scheduled on a given Saturday in peak season. At the London Wedding Garden and Chapel, I find many new brides saying, “I want to be able to schedule my ceremony in the garden, but have a chapel handy in case of rain.” When it comes to theme weddings the answer to everything is, “Yes, You Can!” For any kind of service, short or long, religious or secular, remember to take lots of pictures at the wedding garden where you tie the knot. This year it’s theme weddings! p
seating for up to 120 . cocktail receptions for up to 150 outdoor ceremonies . catering . patio . wheelchair accessible
500 Berkshire Dr., London 519-471-4590 X 302 Cell: 519-859-6374 Tara.McMurdo@Sifton.com www.sifton.com
London
Wedding Garden all inclusive
Wedding Package
wedding ceremony & rehearsal set in london’s beautiful wedding garden or in our chapel
1057 Oxford St., E. London
(located at the Prince William Room)
519-453-7063
www.weddingdayceremonies.ca
“Celebrate your future with a step back in time” 519-457-1296 Fax: 519-457-3364 rentals@fanshawepioneervillage.ca fanshawepioneervillage.ca
a taste of europe since 1974
& Banquet Facilities fabulous food & atmosphere rehearsal dinners
. showers
weddings up to 75 guests three banquet rooms
122 Carling St., London 519-679-9940 info@marienbad.ca www.marienbad.ca
Justforfun
Who will be next to marry? In addition to answering this question with a bouquet toss, have your bridesmaids write their name on the bottom of their shoes (use a permanent marking pen). After the wedding, the one who’s name is still showing, or is the easiest to read, will be the next to marry.
Mocha Shrine Centre
reception & banquet facility for up to 200 guests
catering by
large menu selection for every occasion customized to precise orders
Life’s special moments deserve a special setting. Nestled on 33 acres of beautiful countryside, Elm Hurst Inn & Spa offers elegant reception rooms for up to 230 guests, and can accommodate up to 600 guests for an outdoor ceremony and tented reception. We offer a choice of rooms for groups of up to 230, most with spectacular views of the beautiful countryside, private balconies and picturesque terraces. Guests may stay in our comfortable modern Inn, with 46 Guest Rooms and three Suites. Extra pampering is available in our Aveda Spa. Experience the charm of our historic mansion restaurant, with nine private dining rooms for intimate gatherings for up to 60 guests. Locally-inspired fine cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Michael Davies, impeccable service, a breathtaking country setting - and you. That’s the recipe for an unforgettable celebration!
serviced by five star hospitality staff
519-852-7054 468 Colborne Street, London 519-672-1391 www.mochashriners.org – Take our virtual tour.
www.elmhurstinn.com
Jeanie & Ryan ~ September 18, 2010 Photograph by: Reflections by Terri
Jamie-Lee & Joel ~ June 19, 2010 Photograph by: Erwin Loewen
All you need to do is to say “I do” and we will take care of the rest! Whether you have 3 people or 200, we can host every part of your special day. With such a unique venue and personal attention to every detail, we will ensure an event you and your guests will never forget.
choosing your venue
Stephanie & Stephen ~ October 16, 2010 Photograph by: Aurorra Photography
As a newly engaged couple, one of the first decisions you will have to make is where to hold your reception. Before you begin the search you will have to determine the number of guests you will be inviting and if you will be holding your ceremony and reception at one place. If you are choosing separate venues, having them near each other is a good idea. Finding your perfect reception site is number one on your ‘to do list’ and should
519-640-5019 www.deltalondonarmouries.com
be settled at least a year in advance. If possible, remain flexible on your wedding date until you can check on venue availability. Because every wedding is unique and has it’s own set of requirements, you will probably have many questions to add to the above list. Make notes on what you want and discuss your list with your venue liaison. Be sure that your chosen reception site is clear on your expectations and you are clear on theirs.
Check out our line of wedding gowns, Ever After, sold exclusively at Once Upon A Time Weddings
brides
. bridesmaids . mothers . flowergirls
6 Front St., W. Strathroy 519-245-7997 info@onceuponatimeweddings.ca www.onceuponatimeweddings.ca
Emily & Adam ~ August 28, 2010 Photograph by: Kerbuis Ink
comfortfirst The headpiece you choose should be comfortable from the moment you put it on and feel as though you could forget it’s even there. The weight of your veil and head wear combined must be something you can easily deal with.
The material of your veil does not have to match the gown, but it will work best if they match in design. For instance, if the gown has bead work or edging it’s best to match the work on the veil.
Custom Bridal Wear for Bridesmaids . Mothers . Children
When Style and Quality are Important 370 Maitland Street, London 519-645-0008 laura@anthiea.com
www.anthiea.com
Courtney Rose
Bridal & Ladies Fashions
FORMAL WEAR
ext raordinary
we carry the ordinary... but we specialize in the
Only a touch and we combine Robert Browning
297Adelaide St. S. London 519-680-2986 Over 300 locations across Canada 1-877-434-4184
www.collinsformalwear.com
310 Wellington Road, London 519-936-0049 renee@courtneyrosebridal.com
www.courtneyrosebridal.com
Delta’s
Wedding & Party P lanning
wedding gowns flowers
&
gifts
party supplies rent or purchase
Selecting Your
Wedding Gown
This is a once in a lifetime gown, so have fun shopping. Many brides say they just knew in their heart when the gown was right. Let your heart speak to you. Start shopping as soon as possible, but determine your wedding theme before you begin so you can coordinate your gown to your wedding’s style. Some designer gowns have to be ordered and it could take up to six months for delivery. Remember to leave time for fittings and alterations. Plan on having your dress three to four weeks before the wedding to leave time for changes. Don’t plan to visit too many bridal shops in one day. After three or four shops it becomes confusing and tiring. Bring along a friend or two for second opinions, but keep it to just one or two. Too many opinions can cause uncertainty.
639 Nelson St. (at Adelaide) London 519-601-5341 www.deltasweddingandparty.com
Cleaners
Your “Once in A Lifetime” Gown... Should Last a Lifetime!
109 Fanshawe Park Rd., E. 519-660-6572 1673 Richmond St. 519-850-0465 www.richmondcleanerslondon.com
Go through magazines and cut out the pictures of the dresses you like and bring them along. Be open minded when it comes to the advice of the bridal consultant or sales person. Sometimes, what you like may not be the best look for you, and something you don’t like (on the hanger) may be perfect when you have it on.
When you go for fittings, wear similar undergarment to that planned for the big day and this also applies to shoes. The drape of the gown will be affected by the height of your shoes. These seemingly small things can make a world of difference to the look of your gown and to any alterations it may require. If the store permits, bring a camera when gown shopping, and you can review choices with family and friends. Get some shots of the side and back of your gown too. No matter how great it looks, your gown must be comfortable. If there is boning sticking into your ribs, pass on it or have it altered. A slight irritation when you have the gown on for only a few minutes may seem like it’s not much to be concerned about, however, after several hours that little irritation can become very uncomfortable. Purchase your dress in your current size. Don’t rely on that plan to loose weight. It’s much easier to take a dress in than to try and let it out. Consider simpler styles. Things such as beading and lace can be added much more easily than trying to remove them. Once you have made your final decision, stop looking at other gowns and be content with your choice. Don’t second guess your decision. Relax in the knowledge that one of your major wedding related tasks has been taken care of. p
Charlene & Joe ~ June 26, 2010 Photograph by: Renaissance Studios Photography
Catering to London's Finest Venues ...with personality
Memory Lane Prepare a table with slips of paper and pencils and a basket to place notes in. As guests arrive, have them write down their most endearing memory of the bride or groom. Reading them aloud at the reception is a great walk down memory lane. It is also a wonderful way to include your guests and their feelings and how they are connected to you.
don’t let
Weddings . Corporate . Cocktail Receptions 519-453-8222
thesteelgrill@rogers.com
www.steelgrill.com
little disasters ruin your day
At my niece’s wedding reception the fire alarm went off
during dinner and everyone had to leave the dining room. When we were all outside the bride and groom circulated among their guests, making jokes about the situation and putting everyone at ease. Having a good sense of humour, the couple had their photo taken on the fire truck and they sent the picture out with their thank you cards.
No one at your wedding wants to see an upset bride or groom. It spoils the mood for everyone. Friends and guests won’t enjoy themselves if you don’t. If something should go wrong, maintain your ability to laugh it off and be a gracious hostess. PS: The fire truck was a false alarm.
Cindy & Neil ~ November 6, 2010 Photograph by: Shannon Turner Photography
Weddings, Showers, Receptions w Design Your Own Menu China w Glassware & Linen Rentals w Full Catering Services
Dana & Aaron ~ January 23, 2010 Photograph by: Reflections by Terri
519-899-2961
www.normandpiquettecatering.com Outstanding Customer Service Award Recipient
eco friendly full-service catering company specializing in weddings
& corporate events
Do the planet a favour and remember to keep your wedding environmentally friendly. Keep fuel consumption down by having your ceremony and venue near each other or even in the Heather & Trevor ~ September 11, 2010 same place. Choosing local produce and flowers for your wedding helps reduce fuel consumption too.
we cater to london and within a 200 km. area
Free consultation. 519-858-9900 info@elitecateringbydesign.ca www.elitecateringbydesign.ca
Photograph by: Aurorra Photography
Stay away from plastics for those party glasses and plates, instead go with something biodegradable and of course recycle everything you can.
Follow the three R’s principle... Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and you can’t go wrong.
Paige & Scott ~ June 5, 2010 Photograph by: Kit Wilson Photographer
the
Gay Wedding Show Shows in London, Southwestern Ontario & Toronto
For more show information visit www.gayweddingshow.ca Sponsored by: Outlooks Magazine, Bridal Confidential & TheWeddingRing.ca
info@gayweddingshow.ca
Ferreira
Party & Wedding
Abela Photography
Minhee & Yool ~ December 4, 2010 Photograph by: Kit Wilson Photographer
Discover Ferreira’s, we make your wedding dreams come true.
Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength while loving someone deeply gives you courage.
502 Egerton St., London 519-659-3331
Lao Tzu
By Appointment Only London 519-266-4836 www.galagalore.ca
how many
Bridesmaids?
R G Wedding & Event Planners professional
. unique . memorable
For a traditional wedding, a general guideline to determining how many attendants you will have is one usher and one bridesmaid for every 50 guests. Using this ratio will help keep your wedding in balance. Too few attendants at a very large wedding would appear odd as would too many at a small wedding. For a nontraditional wedding have as many and as few as you like, but keep in mind that a large wedding party requires more organization and expense on your part.
“After 21 years of being apart”
Carla’s
Fabulous is our specialty! for your complimentary consultation, call wendy at
Engagement story
Bill and I met in high school, when I was 15 years old (he was 17). My good friend, Kim, who happens to be one of my bridesmaids, transferred to a another high school. This just happened to be the same school that Bill attended. I was a very shy 15 year old, until Kim introduced me to her new circle of friends. So after getting to know everyone and becoming friends with them, they welcomed me and made me feel like a part of their group. I started hanging out with all of them during school lunch hours, as well as after school almost every day!
www.rg-options.com
sounds crazy, but I couldn’t make this up to save my life. We both had gotten out of bad relationships (a few months between each other) and initially I thought, “What’s the worst that can happen?” We became friends and hung out again like we used to. At the time, I really didn’t know if that’s what I wanted since the last time I had seen him, he broke up with me - good reason, right? I didn’t know if I even wanted to give him the time of day, but something inside me told me to just talk to him. So I did.
I loved our little group of friends!! Bill and I clicked, and then the next thing I knew, we started dating. Bill was my very first boyfriend and my very first "love". Unfortunately, with us being as young as we were, we ended up going our own separate ways. Yes, Bill broke my 15 year old heart, no worries…I got over it. After a few failed relationships and 21 years of separation, Bill got in contact with me on Facebook, right when we needed each other the most! I know it
519-633-1909
Carla & Bill were married June 17, 2011 Photograph by: Aurorra Photography
After about a week of talking through emails, phone calls, etc., we decided to meet up for a coffee. After meeting, we realized why neither one of us were truly happy during those 21 years of being apart. Something was always missing in our lives. Now, truly like a fairy tale, we have found what we were always missing... each other. We have never, in our entire lives, been this happy. Together, we complete each other, in every aspect of our lives. We thank God every single day for bringing our lives together again. There are times when I still can’t believe that we’re actually getting married! Only now does life and love finally make sense! p
Alice & Derek ~December 18 DISCJOCKEY SERVICE LTD.
We love weddings! experienced professionals huge music library discount on your stag
& doe
“A Sound Decision” Bride & Groom receive a free
The wedding went perfectly. I can't believe how smooth everything went. After you see the chaos on those wedding shows, it was a complete breeze. Our DJ , Steve Hickson, did an excellent job. I had so many compliments on the song selection and how he kept everyone on the floor for the whole night. I am completely overjoyed. Alice
lighting effect for their big day
Lighting Packages . Gaming Tables
519-473-1055 www.huntersdj.com
Wedding
trivia most expensive With 1000 guests, the wedding of Vanisha Mittal to the daughter of steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal was a 60 million dollar event. When Sheik Rashid Bin Saeed married Princess Salama the price tag was 44 million dollars. 300 guests attended the marriage of Paul McCartney and Heather Mills. The wedding cost 3 million dollars. For Tom Cruise to marry Katie Holmes it cost a meagre 2 million.
largest cake The world’s largest wedding cake (that we know of) measured 17 feet high and weighed in at 6,818.40 k (15,032 pounds). That’s enough cake for 59,000 guests. It was made from 2,181.78 k (4,810 pounds) of icing and 4,535.92 k (10,000 pounds) of batter. The cake was displayed at the New England Bridal Showcase in 2004.
PS: Queen Victoria’s wedding cake weighed 300 pounds.
most bridesmaids
It’s Your Day... Let Us Create the Magic! Music is intertwined throughout your entire wedding day. From the time guests arrive for the ceremony, to the last dance. Our expertise and experience will make your day “Magical”.
519-851-8749
www.PROFESSIONALMC.com
In 2010, a teacher from Ohio set a new record for the number of bridesmaids. The previous record was 90, but she set a new record with 110.
let the music flow
A & M Sounds
DISC JOCKEY SERVICE 25 years experience large music library experienced staff
C.D.J. A. member
When practicing your first dance take into consideration the size of the dance floor at your reception venue. If it is a large space, plan your dance to cover as much of the floor as possible. Don’t let practicing in a small area mimic itself on the dance floor. Use the entire area and waltz, fox trot or samba (your call) in full view of all your guests. Your first dance should coordinate with your wedding location. For instance, if you are holding your reception in a formal hall the music would be different from that of a beach wedding.
attention to detail quality equipment great references
A.V.L.A. licensed wedding planning
We specialize in making your dreams come true! Check out our new website and see what "sets us apart" from the rest.
amsounds20@yahoo.ca . 519-633-2218 . www.amsoundsdj.com
First
After your first dance it is time for the parents to come onto the floor. Coordinate the music to ‘flow’. Abrupt changes can alter the mood. It’s a great idea to check with the parents and determine what type of music they are most comfortable with.
Dance tips
Your first dance as husband and wife will be one of the After the first dance, the parents of the bride and
‘special moments’ at your wedding and all eyes will be on you. If you or your fiancé can’t dance, now is the time for lessons. If lessons are out of the question, practice ahead of time. Choose your first dance song in advance and use it for your practice sessions.
groom join the floor. There are no hard and fast rules as to who dances with whom and if you wish to have a separate dance for the parents you can pair them up in any way you wish. The bride and groom can cut in to dance with a parent at any point.
If you find it impossible to choose between two songs (you like For the third song it’s time for the wedding party to one, he likes the other), have a ‘last dance’ song to incorporate both of your wishes.
Choose songs that are only about three minutes long.
The seven minute version of “Hotel California” will have your guests yawning with boredom.
Wear your wedding shoes or shoes of similar height that fit in
your practice sessions. Take into consideration the length and fit of your gown and the size of the dance floor before choosing a Waltz, Fox Trot or Salsa.
join the fun. They should begin in pairs just as they were at the wedding ceremony.
b
ride and groom should be on the floor throughout the first three songs.
And now the guests.
Since most people are a little shy about getting up to dance, now is a good time for your wedding party to play ‘find another partner’. Let your attendants and parents know that you would like them to help get things moving by asking a guest to join them on the dance floor.
popular First
Dance
Songs
provided by Music Central Entertainment Marry Me - Train Marry You - Bruno Mars I Do - Colbie Caillat Falling Slowly - Glen Hansard Daughter - Rufus Wainwright III Lullabye (Goodnight My Angel) - Billy Joel Like My Mother Does - Lauren Alaina The Girl - City And Colour You And I - Dave Matthews Band Walk With You - Edwin McCain Trouble - Ray Lamontagne I Have And Always Will - Dave Barnes The Luckiest - Ben Folds This Never Happened Before - Paul McCartney Someone Like You - Van Morrison
Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent. Victor Hugo
Voula & Gus ~ November 13, 2010 Photograph by: Abela Photography
Raquel & Attlia ~ June 26, 2010 Photograph by: Reflections by Terri
• Photo Booth • Ceremonies • Live Music • Stag & Does
First
Dance
origin
The tradition of the first dance is believed to have come from Eastern European immigrants who always danced at weddings. Over time other cultures adopted the tradition and eventually it became mainstream. It is said that the first dance represents the newly married couple and their families coming together as one.
Fellows’ Fernlea Flowers inc.
protect those beautiful blooms When
Love in Full Bloom 175 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas 519-631-3600 www.fellowsfernleaflowers.com
An ideal temperature for storing
them would be 3 to 5 degrees Celsius (40 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit). Flowers can be refrigerated, but be very careful with this one. Some fruits and vegetables emit a gas that will wilt your precious blooms. A cold cellar would provide an ideal storage place, but if a refrigerator is your only choice, check that the temperature is high enough and remove all produce.
Flowers have spoken to me more than I can tell in written words. They are the hieroglyphics of angels, loved by all men for the beauty of their character, though few can decipher even fragments of their meaning. Lydia M. Child
your wedding flowers arrive, open the box, look at them to make sure they are correct and all there, but don’t start handling them or even worse pass them around for others to play with and admire.
Betty & Shawn ~ October 16, 2010 Photograph by: Reflections by Terri
Your flowers may arrive in two
ways. Some with ‘water tubes’ to keep them fresh and some without. Ask your florist about the care and handling of your flowers. Do I put them in water when they arrive? Are they better left lying down or standing up? Should I give them a light spritz of water?
Ask your attendants to handle
(Formerly Evona’s Flowers)
Wedding Bouquets created to your taste. Covent Garden Market 130 King St., London 519-850-3300 service@evonasflowers.com www.evonasflowers.com
the flowers as little as possible especially the younger ones. This is no time for your flowergirl to play “does he love me... does he not” with her arrangement. Your bridesmaids will probably not resort to that game, but I have seen many bridesmaids using their bouquet as a nervous outlet and the bouquet suffers for it.
McInnis Flowers & Gifts
our staff of expert floral specialists would like to help you make
your wedding day unforgettable Contact us for a Wedding Consultation
1770 Ernest Ave., London 519-852-4674
w w w. m c i n n i s f l o w e r s . c a
As soon as possible
Choose your wedding attendants. Make arrangements for the music. Start planning the honeymoon. Prepare your guest list. Meet with your officiant.
Six months before
Purchase the wedding rings. Plan the honeymoon. Apply for marriage license. Finalize his guest list. Arrange wedding day transportation.
Three months before
Review arrangements with attendants. Rent or purchase wedding attire. Book the honeymoon.
www.budgowan.com
his check list
London 551 York St Head Office & Superstore 519-672-6210 London White Oaks Mall 519-668-6650 Sarnia 746 Exmouth St. 519-336-3114 Chatham 10 King St. W. 519-351-9484 Additional stores throughout Ontario
1-866-784-6210
accessory colour match guaranteed
Mention this ad when registering your wedding to receive: Free Grooms Tuxedo Rental + 40% off Wedding Invitations + $30 Off Each Additional Attendants Order
The Ancient Spartans are thought to be the originators of stag parties. Spartan soldiers held a dinner in honour of their friend’s impending marriage and made toasts on his behalf. Knowing the history of the Spartans, it must have been quite a party!
Two months before
Finalize details with your official. Plan the rehearsal dinner.
One month before
Final fittings for tuxedos. Finalize all legal matters. Purchase gifts for bride/attendants.
One week before
Pick up the wedding attire. Review instructions with groomsmen. Double check honeymoon arrangements. Give your marriage license to official. Prepare an envelope with official’s fee.
On the day
Give the ring to your best man. Give the official’s fee to the best man. Arrive at your ceremony site early.
what’s good for her... Brides are always advised to break in the shoes they will be wearing on their wedding day, but no one ever bothers to suggest this to the groom. Sore, tired, aching feet know no gender, so this is sound advice for the future groom too. However, in this case socks matter, so break in the shoes wearing the right socks. Shoes that fit wonderfully with thin socks can become instruments of torture with thicker ones.
phones off please! As your guests enter your ceremony site, have your attendants remind them to turn off their cell phones. Having your vows interrupted by a phone ringing, with a tune from Twisted Sister, would completely spoil the mood and probably embarrass the offending guest.
FORMAL WEAR
ext raordinary
we carry the ordinary... but we specialize in the
297 Adelaide St. S. London 519-680-2986 Over 300 locations across Canada 1-877-434-4184
www.collinsformalwear.com
BRIDAL SPECIALS
for every wedding party of 5 or more booked, the bride will receive a FREE manicure and pedicure. 88 Wharncliffe Rd., S. London 519-936-5996 1-866-554-1330 fingersntoes@rogers.com www.fingersntoesnailstudio.com
Salon
Brittash Hair Extensions Professional Hair Stylists Make-Up Artistry 462 Cheapside St. London 519-858-3192
your gown should complement your hairstyle and your hairstyle should complement your gown. So which comes first? While opinions differ, we feel it is best to determine your hairstyle before purchasing your gown and head piece/veil especially if you have long hair. Purchasing a gown with expensive detail on the shoulders and back will be a waste if your long curls cover the design.
tiaras, veils and other
headpieces have to be coordinated with your hairstyle. A veil that looks fabulous with your hair up may not work at all with your hair down. If you will be removing your veil for the reception, plan for a hairstyle that looks great with or without.
your hairstyle has to
hold up from early morning to late at night. If you have a dream hairstyle in mind, ask yourself (and your stylist) if you have the right hair texture for what you have in mind. For instance, if you have very curly hair but would prefer a smoother look, it can be done. But will it stay smooth if the weather is damp or if you become overheated from dancing? No one knows your hair better than you, so cooperate with your hair and it will cooperate with you. Any new beauty treatments you are considering for your wedding should be given a trial run to make certain the results will be what you are hoping for. The day before the wedding is no time to find out that you have a bad reaction. From hair style to manicure, test everything well ahead of time. info@sidestreetsalon.ca www.sidestreetsalon.ca
Ashley & John ~ May 14, 2010 Photograph by: Abela Photography
Brittany & Dane ~ October 2, 2010 Photograph by: Aurorra Photography
685 Richmond St. London, ON 519.432.5888 www.nuhairandmakeupstudio.com
Why can’t the groom see the bride before the ceremony? This superstition dates back to the time when most marriages were arranged by the family, often for political or financial reasons and the future bride and groom had no say in the matter. To prevent the groom from seeing the bride and changing his mind before the ceremony, the bride was hidden from him until it was too late. Over time arranged marriages became less and less common but somewhere along the way it became a superstition rather than a custom. The veil is an extension of the groom not being able to see his future wife and explains why the veil is not removed until after the vows have been exchanged.
Covering All Your Bridal Needs from Head to Toe! Visit Our Website at www.scizzorhands.com for Service Pricing, Bridal Styles and Video Testimonials
We also do Hair Extensions! This is what your hair could look like with extenions!
322 Wharncliffe Road, North London, ON | 519.432.9255
sometimes
Fairytales... do come true! On April 29, 2011, nineteen thousand guests attended held at Buckingham Palace hosted by Queen Elizabeth II. In the wedding of Kate and Prince William at Westminster the evening, Prince Charles hosted a 300 guest evening Abbey. 600 guests attended the afternoon reception reception... a fairytale come true.
Gown
The
A mixture of Victorian and modern, Kate’s dress was made from satin gazar (a type of silk) with English lace and French Chantilly lace. The inspiration for the gown came from the gown worn by Grace Kelly when she married Prince Renier on April 18, 1956 (the bodice of Grace Kelly’s gown was made from 125 year old lace). The gown was created by Sarah Burton and was kept a secret until Kate exited the car with her father. Each area of the British Isles was represented in hand sewn flowers. England was represented by roses, Wales with daffodils, Ireland with shamrocks and Scotland with thistles.
Veil
The
Made with layers of silk tulle and hand sewn flowers, Kate’s veil measured slightly over eight feet. The train measured a mere eight feet long short by Royal standards. William’s mother, Diana, had a train that was 25 feet long.
Bouquet
The
Small and simple, Kate’s bouquet was made primarily of Lily of the Valley, which represents happiness. Hyacinth were added to represent consistency and add a wonderful fragrance. Since Queen Victoria, every royal bride has had a sprig of myrtle. The myrtle is cut from a tree that began as a sprig from Victoria’s bridal bouquet and Kate continued the tradition.
Kate’s bouquet will be placed on the grave of the unknown soldier.
Andrea & Alex ~ July 3, 2010 Photograph by: Abela Photography
www.youngandco.ca Nichele & Gerharhus ~ August 15, 2010 Photograph by: HRM Photography
IQ
test your wedding traditions
Many of our wedding traditions are based on medieval superstitions, so just for fun here’s a quiz to test your wedding traditions IQ. 1) Which of these completes the phrase: “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue?” a) And your husband will be true. b) And a silver sixpence in your shoe. c) And you will be happy all your life through.
Southwood Crossing, Southdale and Col. Talbot Road. London 519-685-2400
4) Why does the groom stand to the right of the bride? a) To signify his superiority over the bride. b) To keep his sword hand free to defend her. c) It was thought to be his lucky side. 5) If it rains on your wedding it means: a) Good luck in your future. b) You will shed many tears. c) You will have many children. 6) Why does the groom carry the bride over the threshold? a) In case there are evil spirits in the home. b) To show his strength and ability to provide for her. c) To assure that the bride won’t trip, meaning bad luck.
2) What is the purpose of a bridesmaid? a) To carry the bride’s train so it stays clean. b) To bless the bride with many servants. c) To confuse evil spirits.
7) Why do flowergirls drop flower petals on the aisle? a) To signify happiness in the couple’s life together. b) To give the bride a ‘trail’ to follow in life. c) To bless the couple with many children.
3) The white wedding gown began with: a) Marie Antoinette. b) Queen Elizabeth I. c) Queen Victoria.
8) Why do guests throw rice at weddings. a) To shower the couple with their best wishes. b) To signify prosperity in the couple’s future. c) To ward off evil spirits. Answers are found on page 60
G oing
G reat L engths Please Y ou
to
to
Voted Southwestern Ontario’s Best Limousine Service
Marnie & Jim ~ December 3, 2010 Photograph by: Kit Wilson Photographer
46623 Talbot Line (between St. Thomas and Alymer) 800-858-2664 www.auniversal.com
avoid confusion on your wedding day by planning
who will ride with whom and in which vehicle. When everyone knows what they are supposed to do and where they are supposed to be, things flow much better.
Kory & Christopher ~ August 28, 2010 Photograph by: Aurorra Photography
Luxury Coaches
state of the art vehicles to accommodate your entire wedding party.
Serving London-Middlesex, Elgin, Huron, Oxford, Perth, and Points East‌
519-433-8352 1-800-668-1974
carols@badderbus.com
www.badderbus.com
Abela Photography
Arrive Arriveininstyle style
GRANDEURlimousine Abela Photography
Stretch your imagination with us!
southwestern ontario’s only
40 passenger limousine coach voted best limousine service in southwestern ontario
519-453-7307 1-877-246-2844 www.grandeurlimousine.com limousine sponsor for bridal confidential’s cover shoot in london
limousines 45
favours . accessories . gifts . invitations
Visit our showroom or shop online www.weddingfavours.ca 9 St. Andrew Street, Ingersoll . 519-485-4222 . 1-888-328-6870
a memento of your day Wedding favours are mementos of your wedding day and they help set the ambiance of your event when you use them to decorate your reception. The tradition of giving your guests a gift originated in ancient Rome. Wedding favours were usually sweets or nuts but today’s brides are free to choose unique or personalized treats. You can attach favours to your place cards or if you’re not having a sit down dinner have the ushers present them to guests as they leave.
Full Decorating Service
Gifts Favours Accessories
Two london Locations 9 Southdale Rd., E 519-601-4406 109 Fanshawe Park Rd. E. 519-601-1733
www.streamers.ca
Find us on Facebook
Why Frame Your Treasured Pictures? by Carol Damstra, Reflections Picture Plus Framing
Pictures are what you treasure for a lifetime! Whether they are of memories to cherish; a trip to keep in mind; a special occasion not to be forgotten; a certificate to be proud of or an image stitched with love, they are visual reflections of yourself. These are the items you want to display in your home, office and cottage. These pictures are what make your home comfortable and joyous; fill your office with reminders of the greatness life has to offer; and your cottage welcoming. What care and protective measures should be taken? How should these treasures be displayed? Which artistic considerations, skills and experience do the experts have to offer you?
Protect: Your treasured images should be properly protected. An image on photo paper or similar thin material should be mounted onto heavier board, such as foam core, to avoid puckering of the image. Images should not touch the glass. Not only does the mat board serve as a visual enhancement but also provides a practical means to allow appropriate spacing away from the glass. If an image will be exposed to frequent sunlight, it is best to use ultra-violet protective glass. Likewise, if your image is subject to a glare from a light source, it is best to use non-glare glass. The backing should be acid free, sealed with a dust cover and enclosed inside the frame. Last but not least, your picture should be hung with a decent weight wire of 3 to 6 gauge and hangers that are properly secured to the frame. continued on next page
Design: The colour, size and layout of your framing choices should enhance your treasured images as well as reflect your decorating style. Mats come in a variety of colours, textures and fabrics. Some images may look great with a single mat whereas others may look better with a double or triple mat combination. A mat with a v-grove, which looks like a bevelled key line, can give your image a classy addition. A velvet or suede textured mat certainly enhances a needlework. A textured mat can look extraordinary with multi-medium art. nmcfadden@ontario.cancer.ca
Three inches for the width of a mat is the standard rule of thumb. For a special occasion, a very wide mat around a picture
that guests can sign makes a terrific keepsake. The formality of a certificate tends to lend itself better to a narrower mat and a straight forward style frame such as metal or classic wood. Frame choices are numerous. Metal frames tend to give a sleek, contemporary look and can be slightly less expensive. Some frames are made of a poly-urethane material which lends itself well to exhibit ornate design patterns yet can maintain reasonable expense. Wood frames can be found to meet every style, size, colour, pattern and texture preference. The size of the frame should be proportional to the image size. A large image will require a wide solid frame. Images with a thickness such as paper-tole will be best suited to be set in a deep frame. Your frame choice should not only suit your image but also blend with your style: traditional, contemporary or casual. Style, size, colour, pattern and texture should all work well together.
Expert Advice: When choosing a framing shop, consider their reputation, skill and experience. Is framing their entire business or is it just a small corner of a larger enterprise? A shop that is solely for framing will stock materials from numerous suppliers, have a large selection of inventory to choose from and prices will be more competitive. Additionally, some shops will do all the work on site not only cutting overhead charges but also taking more care of your treasured images. How long has the company been in business? You will receive expert assistance from someone who has been framing for years. Their familiarity with design trends, ability to select just the right colour combination and help choose what suits your style and budget will be immeasurable. p
Kit Wilson,
L.P.P.0.
P H O T O G R A P HE R
www.kitwilsonphotography.ca
519.472.4512 www.abelaphotography.com
capture the
Joy
It’s impossible to capture the joy and promise of a wedding when everyone is in a rigid face forward position.
group shots... the easier way Gathering everyone together for group photo sessions can be more time consuming than you think. Family, attendants and guests will be off somewhere enjoying the ceremony and things can become somewhat chaotic. Assign someone the duty of gathering and keeping everyone involved together. A little organization will make things move along and everyone will get to the party on time. Everyone involved in your wedding photos has to be clear on where and when they will be taken. If someone should get sidetracked they will know where you are to be found and at what time.
While posed photos are the backbone of wedding albums, journalistic photos (spur of the moment shots) have become an extremely popular addition and we think they’re great! Capturing the moment you turn to your bridesmaids, just before the procession begins, would be a photographic treasure. Don’t pose for the camera every time you see one pointed in your direction. In fact, for true journalistic photos, try to forget the photographer is there and allow him/her to work their magic.
don’t make these mistakes Not planning right away. You’re going to be engaged for close to two years and that seems like lots of time to plan a wedding, so what’s the rush? If you have ever been involved in planning a wedding you wouldn’t be asking that question. You will be amazed at how far ahead professionals are booked and there are more details to be taken care of than you can imagine. Start planning now. Not staying within your budget. Don’t let the old expression “You only get married once” lead you financially astray. There’s another old expression “When debt comes in the door, love goes out the window”. No couple needs to begin their lives together with a debt load on their shoulders. Not showing restraint the night before. The very thought of feeling hung over, from too much food or alcohol, as you walk down the aisle should be enough to make you behave the night before. To make matters worse, it will show on your face. Puffy eyes and sallow skin are not what you want to wake up to on your big day. Not including the groom. Somehow our society suffers from the delusion that planning a wedding is entirely the brides domain. Not so. Granted there are a number of grooms who prefer to stay away from any/all planning, and hope to do little more than show up on time. However, there are just as many who want to be included and being left out is a common complaint. There is only one way to determine how much or how little your fiancé wants to be involved... ask him!
Not getting help. From baking your own cake to preparing your own favours, don’t try to take on too much. Being pressured, rushed or overwhelmed before your wedding will take all of the fun out of planning your wedding. Not enjoying the planning. Planning your wedding should be one of the more enjoyable times in your life. Don’t let the planning process overwhelm you and take all of the fun out of it. Take the time to enjoy being engaged! Not taking weather into consideration. Believe it or not I have been to two outdoor weddings where no shelter was available and it rained... hard. Outdoor weddings are beautiful but rule number one is to have a back up plan. Not communicating with vendors. Never assume that the people you have hired will be there as planned especially if it has been more than a few months since you contacted them. People’s lives change and these changes can affect your arrangements with them. Three or four weeks before the wedding, confirm with everyone involved. Not being flexible. No matter how well you have planned, accept that a few small things may go wrong. An irritable or upset bride will ruin the wedding for everyone. Let your sense of humour reign. Not remembering to relax and enjoy the day. Too many brides report that they were so swept up in the day that they actually don’t remember it very well. What a shame! Every now and then stop, take a deep breath, observe and make a memory of the sights and sounds of your wedding day. p
Passion Parties
Weddings Taiwanese Style
The ultimate girl’s night in
by Jessie Liu (Chieh Liu in Chinese) Taipei, Taiwan
Perfect for bachelorette parties
A few summers ago, I had the pleasure of attending my uncle’s wedding in Taiwan. I want to share the differences and similarities between a traditional Taiwanese Wedding and a Western wedding. On the wedding day, the Taiwanese bride will dress up first thing in the morning and wait for the groom to arrive at her house. By the time he arrives everybody starts to get emotional, especially the bride’s family as it feels like their daughter is going to join another family. In Taiwan, the tradition is that the bride and groom will have to get down on their knees to show their respect to their parents. The groom has to ask the bride’s parents if he can bring their daughter home. Which is just part of the tradition, as the groom already has the permission and is just showing respect in front of the entire family and letting the family know that the daughter will always be taken care of. The parents in return will give the groom sweet dumpling soup. This shows that the bride’s parents wish them a happy and successful marriage. After the whole family has lunch together, the groom and the bride get into the same car and as they start to drive everybody claps their hands similar to a Western Wedding. Unlike a Western Wedding, they shoot fireworks. Remember, the wedding hasn’t even started yet! The wedding usually starts at night and is generally held in a nice hotel or a restaurant. When the wedding starts, you will see both sets of parents standing on the stage. The groom stands in the middle of the hall waiting for the father to bring the bride in. The wedding music starts playing, the father gently gives the bride’s hand to the groom. The music keeps playing until the couple reaches the stage. Then comes the most important part of the wedding. Both sets of parents will say nice words to their children and then the minister will marry them.
Wickedly fun but tastefully done is passion e s u a c e B l thing! u f r e d n o aw
519-685-1381 www.thepassionateromantic.com
Once this is complete the couple help each other put on their rings. Then comes the first kiss of their marriage, everybody claps and shouts. Then the lights start going down and the wedding dinner begins. Normally, there will be ten different dishes which represent that the marriage will be beautiful and perfect. While everybody enjoys their food, the music will play and everything is dark. The couple then show pictures of themselves and say a few words to their families. Throughout the wedding day, the bride changes into three different dresses. The first one is a white dress and is worn when she walks down the aisle. When everybody is eating, the bride changes to another dress for the toast. The dress is a Chinese style and much more slimming fit and often red. In Taiwan, both sets of parents and the new couple have to go to every table and toast everybody at the wedding. Then it’s party time! At the end, the bride changes into a third dress which is a more comfortable fitting dress and is yellow to represent luck for all the guests and wedding party. The immediate families and the new couple will stand outside the door and say good-bye and give everybody wedding candy, to share the luck and happiness with everyone! It’s an honor to share my Taiwanese wedding story with everybody. Congratulations to every beautiful couple. Wishing you a wonderful journey as you build your new life together. p
bridal confidential’s London/St. Thomas 2011
Cover Draw
at Tr u R e s taurant
Photographs by Memories Photography ~ View more photos and the video at www.bridalconfidential.com
Second PlaceJocelyn Roy
First Place
Aaron and Sophia Rafol
Winners with Judy from Anchor Video Productions
Aaron and Sophia won an all inclusive trip for two and Sophia is on our cover. See her story on page 14
Our first place winner’s Sponsors Transat Holidays & Marlin Travel Sarnia Abela Photography ~ Tru Restaurant Scizzorhands ~ Side Street Salon N U Hair & Makeup Studio Richmond Cleaners A Universal Limousine Anchor Video Productions Hampton Inn by Hilton McInnis Flowers & Gifts Marienbad Restaurant Station Park All Suite Hotel
Thank You!
our second place winner’s sponsors Station Park All Suite Hotel and Tru Restaurant. Jocelyn won dinner for two at Tru Restaurant and an overnight stay for two at Station Park All Suite Hotel.
Many thanks to everyone who attended!
Door Prize Winners Marienbad Restaurant ~ Three $100 Gift Certificates Staybridge Suites ~ Three Overnight Stays for Two
The Perfect Venue for all Your Wedding Parties Rehearsal Dinners ~ Showers ~ Stagettes ~ Anniversaries
45 King St., London 519.672.4333 trurestaurant.ca/weddings
1
st place winners
London/St. Thomas
wedding day
Sophia & Aaron Rafol ~ October 10, 2010
Photographs courtesy of
Leon Chai Photography
Sophia appears on our cover and the couple won a trip for two sponsored by Transat Holidays & Marlin Travel Sarnia Read Sophia’s story on page 14.
Engaged to the Editor ~ A Proposal in New York City by Sarah Guirguis
I had a week to prepare to move from Ottawa to Toronto for new employment. The move initially seemed daunting. However, a day had passed and everything was packed and on its way to Toronto. This left me with a few days off, so Jay, my boyfriend of three years, convinced me to take a trip to New York City. I hadn’t been since I was a young girl visiting with my family, so I jumped at the opportunity. We booked a hotel, packed some bags and we were off to New York City the next morning. We arrived late at night and we set an alarm for 6 am to make the most of our time in the Big Apple. Jay turned on the television as soon as the alarm went off in the morning and to our surprise, the Royal Wedding had just begun. We watched the beautiful wedding ceremony as we got ready to explore the city. We walked along Broadway and came across a live TLC wedding fashion show which was airing in honour of Kate and
Prince William. As we passed by, I was handed a special edition wedding magazine to commemorate the Royal Wedding. As I flipped through some pages I could not help but wonder about my special day. After the fashion show Jay brought us to ‘Top of the Rock’, located on top of the Rockefeller Center. It was a breathtaking view. From one side we could see Central Park and from the opposite side we had a magnificent city view with the prominent Empire State Building in the center. Jay and I had lunch in Central Park, where we sat beside two women who were visiting from England. We had a great talk about their thoughts on the Royal couple and the beautiful dress Kate Middleton chose. We visited the famous skating rink where my favourite movie, Serendipity, was filmed, and we witnessed two weddings taking place. It was continued... truly a romantic walk in the park.
In the evening, Jay surprised me by taking me to Serendipity III for dinner. Not only was my favourite movie filmed and named after the restaurant, but we also shared the same chocolate smoothie that Kate Beckinsale and John Cusack’s characters ordered. It was a very magical evening. Our last stop was at the Empire State Building, which was celebrating its 80th birthday. We walked around each side of the observation deck, as we gazed at the beautiful city lights below. It was at this moment, when we were completely alone and on top of one of the most famous buildings in the world that I realized Jay had effortlessly planned the entire day, and it was perfect. It was after this perfect day and during this perfect moment that he asked me to marry him! Jay strategically planned for us to arrive at the Empire State Building after midnight to make sure the day he proposed would be our day and hence, a day after the Royal Wedding.
HONEYMOON AT SEA Romantic dinners for two, watching the sun set from your balcony, dancing the night away under the stars, champagne breakfast in bed, or cocktails by the pool. It all depends on what makes you happy.
Our first day as a newly engaged couple was spent exploring New York City, where we took a ferry and visited the Statue of Liberty, walked to Wall Street, strolled through Greenwich Village, and visited some historical monuments.
TRANSAT HOLIDAYS IS CRUISING! Choose from a selection of the world’s most prestigious cruise lines offering magnificent ships and itineraries for : • Caribbean • Mediterranean • European River • Northern Europe And many more!
I could not have imagined a more memorable proposal! p Sarah Guirguis: Chartered Accountant with an Honours Bachelor degree in Business Administration Jay Cameron: Honours Bachelor degree in Communication Studies and Anthropology and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Interactive Multimedia
For more information on how to book your dream cruise contact your vacation specialists at Marlin Travel, Lambton Mall today. Lambton Mall – 1380 London Rd, Sarnia
We wish Sarah & Jay every happiness in their future!
519-542-3424 or 1-866-542-3424 Transat Holidays is a division of Transat Tours Canada Inc. , and is registered as a travel wholesaler in Ontario (Ont reg # 50009486) with offices at 191 The West Mall, Suite 800 Etobicoke, ON M9C 5K8. Printed July 2011
BRIDAL CONFIDENTIAL • 2/3 PAGE • 2011/2012
IQ
test your Answers for page 45
wedding traditions
1) a. A silver sixpence is thought to bring financial good luck. 2) c. Apparently the evil spirits were easily confused. Adriana & Dale ~ February 27, 2010 Photograph by: Abela Photography
3) c. Queen Victoria married Prince Albert on February 11, 1840. 4) b. I guess men always expect the worst. 5) a, b & c. History is very unclear on this, so you get to decide. 6) c. Those pesky evil spirits again. 7) c. Not to mention they look great!
Cathy & Adam ~ August 14, 2010 Photograph by: Abela Photography
8) a, b & c. Like number 5, you get to choose.
2
nd place winners
London/St. Thomas
wedding day Jocelyn & Jeff Roy ~ August 28, 2010
Photographs courtesy of: Abela Photography
Jocelyn & Jeff won Dinner for Two at Tru Restaurant and an Overnight Stay at Station Park All Suite Hotel
12
choosing your wedding colours When you think of the colours you want for your wedding you will probably think of your favourite ones first, but before finalizing your choice there are a few other things to keep in mind.
May & Adnan ~ October 30, 2010 Photograph by: Diamond Digital Production
Will the colours of your venue work well with your wedding colours? For instance, you would love to have shades of orange for your wedding, but the venue walls are purple... not a great combination. In what season will your wedding take place? A spring wedding calls for spring colours such as pink, turquoise or coral shades etc. For a winter wedding, deep rich tones are more appropriate. Generally, the bridesmaid’s gowns match or complement the wedding colours. Talk with your attendants and find out their preferences. Some people look fantastic in yellow while others don’t. I love taupe, but can never wear it because it turns my skin to the same shade as mud. Your invitations should reflect the colour tones of your wedding. Flowers can either match or complement your wedding colours and the same applies to your cake. When it comes to flowers, check with your florist to find out what shades your favourite flowers come in and whether or not they will be in season at the time of your wedding.
Deana & Graham ~ July 10, 2010 Photograph by: Kit Wilson Photographer
Table linens also come into play. If you simply can’t find the right table coverings, stay with a neutral shade such as white or cream and use your centerpieces to accentuate your colours. Choose a primary colour and one or two secondary shades. Two colours are good and three will work, but don’t choose more than three or it will just look busy. Two shades of one colour will blend well for a softer effect or combine two primary colours for a more striking look.
Rebecca & Doug ~ July 3 , 2010 Photograph by: Memories Photography
If you are uncertain what colours blend well together, you can find ‘colour pallet generators’ on the internet to help you out. p
Sonia & Marc ~ September 4, 2010 Photograph by: Abela Photography
wedding wines Article provided by Wine Lovers Visions of wedding toasts and wonderful wines come to mind, but where do you start? With only a few decisions and a bit of information you can create a completely personalized wine for your special day. Firstly, you will need to check with the hall in which you are having your reception. Ask them if they will allow you to supply your own wine and what their corkage fees will be to do so. You will need to complete a Special Occasions Permit, of which you can download from www.agco.on.ca. This should be completed as per the explicit instructions on the form. Secondly, how much wine to make? The general rule of thumb is at least two glasses of wine per guest. Keep in mind that there will be children and other guests that do not drink alcohol so you will want to ensure that there are some non-alcoholic beverages available.
The glasses of wine per bottle are as follows: 750 ml bottle will yield about 6 - 4 oz. glasses 1 litre bottle will yield about 8 - 4 oz. glasses 1.5 litre bottle will yield about 13 - 4 oz. glasses Another consideration would be using your personally created wine as your wedding favour. Your guests would each get to take home a bottle of wine that you created. They will enjoy having a bottle of the same wine served at your wedding as a keepsake.
The final touch is to add a custom label designed by you. Your special day memorialized in a label that will adorn the bottle for years to come. Each time it is looked at, it will trigger fond memories for everyone. With these thoughts in mind, starting your wine is an easy three step process: 1. Visit your local Brew On Premise to select the type of wine you would like to make and to determine how many wine kits you will need for your event. On this day, the winemaker will start the kits and you will add the required yeast to initiate the fermentation process. Your wine will remain on their premises for four to six weeks, depending on the kits you have chosen. The winemaker will clear and filter your wine for you during this time. 2. When fermentation is complete you will return to the location to sanitize and fill the bottles that come with your wedding package. Bring some of your bridal party with you if you want to share the experience and have some fun! Create and affix your custom label to each bottle for the finishing touch. 3. Be patient‌ now all that is left to do is wait! All wines are even better after an aging period. Red wines generally require a longer aging period than white wines to develop their true essence. Your winemaker will be able to help you determine the appropriate aging time period. Be sure to take time to savor the smiling faces of all your friends and family when you see them admiring the custom labels you designed, while sipping on the wine that is infused with your own special blend of flavours. It is such an easy process for you to accomplish and will grant you great pleasure to share your gift of exquisite wine with your guests! Cheers!
bridal confidential’s
Wedding Event at Best Western Lamplighter Inn photographs courtesy of abela photography
thanks to our event production team Hunters Disc Jockey Service . The PA Shop . Gala Decor Best Western Lamplighter Inn . Anchor Video Productions McInnis Flowers & Gifts . Abela Photography
Our thanks to our Fashion Show Sponsors Courtney Rose Bridal Fashions Sew Stylish Wedding Works Once Upon A Time Weddings Bud Gowan Formal Wear Collins Formal Wear Moores Clothing for Men
see more photos and view the video at w w w. br i d a lc on fi d en t i a l . c o m
DanteClub your wedding and event headquarters
three halls to accommodate showers, ceremonies, receptions and more
NEW Bridal Room Exceptional food and service Full Service Menu Available Specializing in Italian Cuisine You do not have to be a member to book our facility
A team of professionals dedicated to exceeding your expectations
1330 London Rd., Sarnia 519-542-9311
danteclub.management@cogeco.net
www.danteclubsarnia.ca
Sarnia/Chatham
Ashley Radychewky
Sarnia/Chatham
This year’s winner
sarnia/chathamwinner
Ashley's photoshootday by Ashley Radychewsky
REAL PHOTOGRAPHY
71
“... she never got to wear her gown.”
An Extra Special Wedding From our editor We held our Sarnia/Chatham Cover Draw at Holiday Inn, Point Edward on March 27. After the draw Ashley’s friend, Jessica, said, “No one deserves this more. Ashley’s wedding gown has been in her closet for over a year... she never got to wear it”. Ashley and Chris had planned to be married in October, but when they learned that Ashley was expecting twins they postponed their celebrations. The twins were born in March, a boy and a girl named Cade and Nylah.
I don't even know where to begin. This journey for Chris and I has just been extraordinary. We never thought in a million years we would be getting the chance to do something so special in our lives. Our first wedding was very intimate and now we finally get to have the big day we have always dreamed of and more. This month is a hard one for us as it mark's our beautiful daughter's first ‘angelversary’. This amazing opportunity has really lifted our spirits and has taught us to enjoy the life we have together as a family and only remember the good times. This city has really reached out to us. As I sit here and think about what has been offered to us it brings tears to my eyes. We are so happy to live in such a caring, loving community. REAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Sadly, three months later, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome took Nylah’s life. After the loss of Nylah, all Ashley and Chris wanted was to be married in a simple ceremony. On July 24, 2010, they got married. It was a solemn occasion with no family or friends, no reception, no honeymoon and no wedding gown. Although they were happy to be married, they hoped that one day they would redo their vows with family, friends, celebrations and all the wonderful memories that a wedding has to offer. When Ashley attended our cover draw, little did she know that she would get the opportunity to have the wedding of their dreams. After hearing Ashley’s story, and knowing that Ashley would be wearing her gown on her photo shoot day, Geoff from Holiday Inn Point Edward, immediately came up with the idea of holding a wedding ceremony at the Holiday Inn on the same day. Delighted with the opportunity to be remarried (and finally wear her gown) with family and friends present, Ashley immediately agreed, and Chris was overjoyed. Winning an all inclusive trip for two to Mexico was another dream come true... the honeymoon they never had. Over the next few days, as the wedding related businesses of Sarnia/Lambton heard Ashley’s story, the gifts began to pour in. Bridal Confidential would like to thank everyone who participated in making Ashley and Chris’ dream come true.
We have to thank first off Bridal Confidential, such an amazing company. If it weren't for your team some women wouldn't have their dream's come true. Bridal Confidential does so many wonderful amazing things for new brides and their families. They give so much that I'm just at a loss for words as many brides are that have had an opportunity to be spoiled by them.
We are so thankful to everyone who helped us. We were given so many gifts and we are just in awe and can't believe that this is happening to us. The best way to describe how we feel is - a magical dream. We were hoping to plan for a bigger wedding with our family and friends and now we are getting our wishes beyond what we could have ever imagined. Thank you so much to everyone! p
Ashley & Chris remarried on June 3, 2011
Photos and sponsors of Ashleys & Chris’ “Extra Special Wedding” 70
LUXURY
COLLECTION
THE LUXURY COLLECTION… HONEYMOONING AT ITS FINEST! The Luxury Collection represents the highest ideal of luxury and pampering in the Caribbean and Mexico. With state-of-the-art spas, gourmet dining, intimate settings, attentive service and VIP privileges, these 5-star resorts provide the perfect backdrop for your honeymoon.
All-Inclusive • Luxurious room with whirlpool or hydromassage bathtub • Gourmet dining • Unlimited premium brand drinks • Unlimited à la carte dinners • 24-hour room service • Concierge or butler service • Bathrobes and slippers in room upon arrival • Beach towels in room upon arrival And much more!
Exclusive Privileges • Free upgrade to Option Plus or Canjet Select* • Private transportation from the hotel BRIDAL CONFIDENTIAL EXCLUSIVE Book with Marlin Travel Lambton Mall Get Free Hawkeye Duffle Bag†
For more information on how to book your luxury honeymoon contact your honeymoon specialists at Marlin Travel, Lambton Mall today. Lambton Mall – 1380 London Rd, Sarnia
519-542-3424 or 1-866-542-3424 4 *Complimentary upgrade to Option Plus on Air Transat flights or CanJet Select on CanJet flights, which includes seat selection, a comfort kit and other her great advantages. Subject to availability. † Whi While supplies last. Transat Holidays is a division of Transat Tours Canada Inc., and is a registered travel wholesaler in Ontario (Reg #50009486) with offices at 191 The West Mall, Suite 800, Etobicoke, ON M9C 5K8. Printed July 2011
an extra Special Wedding Photographer: REAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia - All Inclusive Trip for Two to The Mayan Riviera, Mexico
Ashley & Chris’ Sponsors
Nicki Gould Real Photography - photographs & album
Total Hair & Body Care - two hairstyles
Jennifer Keating Videography - video
Wendy Starr - officiant
Holiday Inn, Point Edward overnight stay for two and wedding venue
Colin Graf Classical Guitar - music for ceremony
Bud Gown Formal Wear - groom’s attire
Lunch Lounge & Martini House reception venue and dinner for family and friends
Penguin Limousine - limousine service
Canada’s DJ Service - music for reception
Gondola Trattoria - gift basket of treats
Aliya Bridal Fashions - gown preservation
LaPier’s Flowers & Gifts - bridal bouquet
Jer Wilcocks Photography - $500 gift certificate
Adora Spa - manicure and a full spa day
PostNet - thank you cards
Merle Norman - makeup application, pedicure and private room to dress
Sewlutions - ‘just married’ hats and t-shirts Windsor Inn on the River - overnight stay for two
Chris was pampered too!
More photos and a video at www.bridalconfidential.com “I am overwhelmed by the generosity of our Sarnia business people.” Ashley
“A big thank you to Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia for giving us our very first trip as a married couple.” Ashley
continued ...
an extra Special Wedding
continued
Ashley, Chris and Family in the park for photos and at Limbo’s for the reception.
g n i t ke t u C e ca th
... the very definition of decadence
Nicki Gould Real Photography
Before You Say “I Do”
Bridal “Sparty” Treat your Bridal Party (girls & guys) to a day or evening at the spa in preparation for your special day. Contact our Spa Coordinator for details and allow us the honour of helping you plan a very special Bridal “Sparty” customized to meet your wishes.
Additional Wedding Packages Available 563 Front Street North, Sarnia 519-337-9998 www.glassandpillarspa.com
Complimentary Continental Breakfast Wedding Group Rates Available Unique Waterfront Location
“Let your guests be our guests”.
Let us take care of your wedding guests so you can concentrate on planning for your big day! As Sarnia’s only waterfront accommodation, we provide you and your guests with a scenic walkway, and a variety of Romance Packages with warm, friendly and personalized service.
505 Harbour Rd., Sarnia 519-337-5434 1-888-787-5010 www.sarniaharbourfront.com
Christmas Wedding Planning a wedding close to Christmas? Why not follow through with a Christmas theme wedding. This is the one time of year that you can go “all out” and not appear garish. Decorations, lights and ambiance galore! At Christmas, it’s never too much. Because Christmas is a busy time for most people, send your invitations a little early, perhaps two months before, or send out ‘save the date’ cards. Book your venue early. When the day arrives, don’t have your receiving line at the entrance to your reception, you may be leaving people out in the cold waiting to get inside. On your wedding day leave extra time for everything. We’re sure you already know how snowfalls can throw off schedules. For a winter wedding you can wear a wrap or a faux fur muff... stunning. Your groom can wear a winter top coat... very dashing, and winter provides some excellent photo opportunities.
Love
Love is a friendship that has caught fire. It is quiet, understanding, mutual confidence, sharing and forgiving. It is loyalty through good and bad. It settles for less than perfection, and makes allowances for human weakness. Love is content with the present. It hopes for the future and it doesn't brood over the past. It's the day-in and day-out chronicle of irritations, problems, compromises, small disappointments, big victories, and working toward common goals. If you have love in your life, it can make up for a great many things you lack. If you don't have it, no matter what else there is, it is not enough, so search for it, ask God for it, and share it! Ann Landers
A Christmas wedding opens up all kinds of possibilities: A Christmas tree with decorations - give them as favours. v Hot chocolate with marshmallows to greet guests. v Center pieces with Christmas red cranberries and candles. v Mistletoe... lots of fun here. v Have ‘Santa Clause’ hand out your wedding favours. v White tulle with Christmas lights matching your colours. v Crystals in your bouquet. v Miniature sleighs or candy canes to hold your place cards. v Silver/gold snowflake shaped sprinkles on the tables. v Instead of a guest book use a Christmas tree skirt. Have your guests sign it with a fabric pen and you will have a memory to enjoy on every Christmas to come. v
Lindsey & Tom ~ June 26, 2010 Photograph by: Jer Wilcocks Photography
The Romans... of course Like so many of our wedding traditions, the wedding cake dates back to the Roman Empire, however, it was not a cake at all, it was a loaf of bread. The groom broke the bread over the bride’s head.
Cakes, Candies and Supplies
Customized Wedding Cakes & Chocolates
Some say this was to display his dominance over her and some say it was to bless her with a life of plenty... you choose. Ashley & Todd ~ June 26, 2010 Photograph by: Doodle Bugz Photography
During the middle ages, biscuits replaced the bread and it is believed that a French chef piled these biscuits on top of each other and the first wedding cake (known as a Croquembouche) was born. Decorate your table by having your bridesmaids place their bouquets around the cake. An often overlooked item is a cake knife. If your venue does not provide one, bring your own.
chocolate dipped fruit trays . rentals cake toppers . tiered wedding cakes
Reeces Corner Plaza, Wyoming 519-845-0620 www.isntlifesweet.com
Icing vs Temperature Not all icing is created equal and some hold up in warm temperatures while others will not. If your dream wedding will be taking place outdoors let your baker know and choose accordingly. Denese & Tyler ~ November 6, 2010 Photograph by: Alina Claire Photography
Merie’s Cake ‘N ’ Stuff
wedding cakes . party favours . accessories . invitations candles . pillows . toppers . glasses . tiaras . & more
Sarah & Travis ~ September 18, 2010 Photograph by: Nicki Gould Real Photography
23397 Prince Albert Rd., Chatham 519-351-8077 . www.meriescakenstuff.com
Samantha & Mike ~ October 9, 2010 Photograph by: Jer Wilcocks Photography
Protect the gown Normally, a stain on your clothing is not a big issue as you can always change into something else or wash it off. When it comes to your wedding gown you will want to be extra careful so that stains just don’t happen in the first place. Avoid any stain causing beverages such as coffee and have white wine at your wedding dinner. Red wine will stain, white wine won’t show. Did you know that flowers can stain your gown. This is one you should talk with your florist about and choose your bouquet accordingly. All flowers have pollen and pollen will stain, but only if you try to rub it off, instead gently blow or shake it off. Use garment bags whenever you are transporting the gown (good advice for the groom’s attire too). Keep your skirt lifted especially when entering or exiting your vehicle, avoid leaning or sitting on anything that your not sure is completely pristine.
~ fully licensed bar ~ ceremony sites covered patio overlooking golf course ~ wedding packages decorating services ~ accommodate for up to 150 guests
Jessica & Jake ~ June 19, 2010 Photograph by: Alina Claire Photography
on site catering
7018 Dufferin Ave., Wallaceburg . 519-627-2366 . melissa.baldoongolf@hotmail.com
Ashley & Shane ~ October 9, 2010 Photograph by: Nicki Gould Real Photography
Where your dreams come true..
Your one stop wedding place.
Backdrops, Centerpieces, Chair Covers, Ties. Onsite and offsite decorating just for you. Our chef will customize and create an unforgettable menu. 250 National Rd., Chatham 519-355-0806 Fax: 519-355-0810
bridal confidential’s sarnia/chatham 2011
Cover Draw
at Holiday Inn, Point Edward
Photographs courtesy of Jer Wilcocks Photography ~ View more photos and the video at www.bridalconfidential.com
first place
Ashley Radychewsky
Ashley won a 7 nights all inclusive accommodation at the El Dorado, A Spa Resort, By Karisma, Mayan Riviera, Mexico. Sponsored by Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel, Sarnia. ashley appears on our cover
second place
serena williams
Krista (left) from Marlin Travel Sarnia with Ashley.
Serena (above) won: Dinner for two at the Brigantine Restaurant. Overnight stay for two at the Harbourfont Inn.
Door Prizes: Limbo Lunch Lounge ~ Three $50 Gift Certificates Lekoz Tap & Grill ~ $50 Gift Certificate
Our special thanks to everyone who attended and to Holiday Inn for the delicious appetizers.
for her cover shoot day ashley enjoyed a full day of pampering sponsored by: Transat Holidays & Marlin Travel Sarnia . Holiday Inn . Nicki Gould Real Photography . Penguin Limousine Merle Norman Cosmetics . Aliya Bridal Fashions . Adora Spa . Jennifer Keating Videography LaPier’s Flowers & Gifts . Total Hair & Body Care . Gondola Trattoria . Limbo Lunch Lounge & Martini House
Bride & Groom Receive a Complimentary Guest Room on the Night of the Wedding Special Room Discount for Guests Indoor & Outdoor Areas for Ceremonies
Executive Chef on Site All Inclusive Bar Packages 217 Guest Rooms Including Jacuzzi Suites 2 Ballrooms Accommodating up to 440 Guests Geoff Hammond, Wedding & Special Events Manager 1498 Venetian Blvd. Point Edward 519-336-0248 holiday-inn.com/sarniaon
Photo by Grafiks M&C, Sarnia
Banquet Hall & Accommodations for Your Wedding
2849 St. Clair Parkway, Sombra . 519-867-3999 . www.bogeysinn.com Do the
Math
Number of guests = food cost. Food cost = number of guests.
Even Stephen Hawking would find this one tricky. The only answer is rough estimates. Not exactly an answer physicists would accept, but it’s a good place to start. Most of us have no concept of what it costs to serve
dinner to 50 or 100 people. Since this is going to be one of your largest expenses... do the math, and don’t forget to include the professionals who will be working for you that day.
Sarnia Riding Club creating memories since 1908.
edisonphotography.com
Located on the sandy shores of Lake Huron nestled within a private wooded setting. With seating for 120 guests, our magnificent room features a large stone fireplace, hardwood floors and spectacular views. Outdoor ceremonies are held on the bluff at the waters edge.
on-site catering
~ full service dining room & bar
980 Riding Club Lane . 519-542-5588 . www.sarniaridingclub.com
Perfect Indoor Wedding Venue
Sawmill Creek Golf Resort and Spa is the Premier wedding facility in Southwestern Ontario. Offering everything to give our Brides the wedding of their dreams. Each detail is coordinated and cared for by our staff, from the initial consultation until the date of your wedding.
Ask About Our Fall & Winter Wedding Special.
Perfect Outdoor Wedding Venue
New in 2007 our permanent outdoor tent accommodating up to 275 people. This perfect outdoor venue will complement every detail of your wedding day along with the beautiful scenery only Sawmill Creek Golf Resort and Spa has to offer.
Don’t settle for anything less. 3790 Lakeshore Rd., Camlachie 519-899-4653 ext 225 www.sawmill-creek.com
let us help you plan your wedding reception in our intimate setting
our experienced staff and expert chef will ensure your day will be perfect
75 newly renovated rooms
seating for up to 200 guests
newly renovated banquet hall
ample parking
yourweddingphotos
Ideal setting for
102 Main St. South, Forest
519-786-2397 or 1-800-265-0214
www.golfforest.com
Photographs by barefeetprojects.com
1
Bridal Fashions . Accessories . Jewellery . Gown Preservation
150 Christina St., N. Bayside Centre, Sarnia 519-332-8700 aliyabridalfashons@hotmail.com
st place winners
Sarnia/Chatham
wedding day
Ashley & Chris Radychewsky ~ July 24, 2010 Photos on this page are of Ashley and Chris’
first wedding. Read the full story of their second wedding on page 68
Ashley appears on our cover and the couple won a trip for two sponsored by Transat Holidays & Marlin Travel Sarnia.
Photographs courtesy of
A lina C laire P hotography
Our cover winners, Ashley and Chris, were given "Just Married" hats and t-shirts to wear on their honeymoon to the Mayan Riviera. The gift items were made by Tracey Cameron of Sewlutions. “What a beautiful couple and wonderful family. We wish them love and happiness as they get to recreate their wedding day.” Tracey
645 Broadway St., Wyoming 519-845-1020 Photograph by: Cameron’s Candids Photography
Victorian
A Tea Party by Karen Callies 4159 Petrolia Line, Unit B 519-882-4789 beavasey@live.com
FORMAL WEAR
we carry the ordinary... but we specialize in the
ext raordinary
1-877-434-4184
Over 300 locations across Canada
www.collinsformalwear.com
My parents and I hosted my sister Laura’s wedding shower in their garden. The beauty of their garden inspired a Victorian Tea Party theme. I love theme gatherings, it just makes the day so much more memorable. It was a fabulous day, the weather was perfect as we sat around the pool underneath the tent. A fun activity we planned was that we asked everyone to bring a picture of themselves on their wedding day and we had to guess who was who, for the single gals they could bring a photo of themselves in their younger years. We also told everyone that hats were mandatory to set the mood. In a museum fashion we hung not only mine, but our mother’s and Laura’s soon to be mother in law’s wedding gowns and photos. When I got married, one of the things I wanted the most was great food! Great food will make the most simple gatherings highly memorable. The menu we chose for the shower was prepared in small portions, so that you could enjoy tasting everything and have the feeling of a dainty tea party. Our menu consisted of: chicken curried sandwiches on small croissants ~ smoked salmon canapés cucumber sandwiches ~ deviled tarragon eggs ~ mini quiches chickpea salad ~ broccoli salad ~ cheese platter ~ fresh fruit platter petit fours ~ mini lime tarts ~ lady baltimore cake Karen Callies teaches cooking classes and is also an expert at entertaining karencallies@cogeco.ca
exquisite bridal attire
Goldcoast fashions Fashions from Canada, USA & Abroad
casual ~ dress ~ formal ~ regular ~ petite ~ plus romantic bridals
. alexia designs
tutto benne . benjamin walk
168 King St. W Chatham 519.352.1331 . 538 James St. Wallaceburg
www.goldcoastfashions.com
519.627.7143
patrick & jennifer mathieu serene.cuisine@yahoo.ca P.O. Box 797 Bright’s Grove, Ontario
519-908-9297
LOVE IS ENOUGH Love is enough: though the world be a-waning, And the woods have no voice but the voice of complaining, Though the skies be too dark for dim eyes to discover
f
Full Service Catering Company featuring Exclusive, Custom Made Menus for Weddings, Receptions, Showers, Rehearsal Dinners, Engagement Parties and “Day After” Festivities
f
The gold-cups and daisies fair blooming thereunder, Though the hills be held shadows, and the sea a dark wonder
Fresh Baked Custom Made Wedding Cakes & Cupcakes by a Wilton Master Cake Decorator
And this day draw a veil over all deeds passed over, Yet their hands shall not tremble, their feet shall not falter: The void shall not weary, the fear shall not alter These lips and these eyes of the loved and the lover. William Morris
the reception - a guideline Every wedding is unique and how you choose to plan your day is entirely up to you. The order of events below is only a guideline to help get you started. After you and your new husband arrive at your reception venue the first thing you will want to do is freshen up, get something to drink and get everyone in position for your receiving line. Once all of your guests are in the venue, it is time for your DJ to announce your wedding party. As a rule, the order of entry is: bride’s parents, groom’s parents, attendants (in couples), maid of honour and best man, then the flowergirl and ring bearer followed by the bride and groom. Speeches and toasts may be made in any order you prefer but the standard order is: Best man’s toast to the groom Maid of honor toast to the bride Father of the groom toast to the bride Father of the bride toast to the groom Bride’s toast followed by groom’s toast If you are having more than three or four speeches, have them at various times throughout the reception. Cutting the cake is next and generally takes place before dessert. Your next step is the first dance (excuse the pun). Around 11 pm it’s time to toss the bouquet and once that is done, a late night buffet is usually served.
Weddings, Showers, Reception Design Your Own Menu w Full Catering Services China, Glassware, Linen, Table & Chair Rentals
519-899-2961 www.normandpiquettecatering.com Outstanding Customer Service Award Recipient
May our love be like good wine, grow stronger as it grows older. Old English Toast
Did you know...
that your fiancé is a knight? The first appearance of the term bachelor, used in reference to an unmarried man, was in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales written in the 14th century. Prior to this reference, ‘bachelor’ referred to a young knight or a young man with a bachelor’s degree. Since he is still a bachelor (although not for long) this makes your fiancé a knight... doesn’t it?
Authentic Italian Cuisine for Wedding Receptions, Showers and Parties private parties
~ up to 40 guests
catering for up to
300
1200 Lambton Mall Rd., Unit 1 Sarnia 519-541-1693 www.gondolatrattoria.ca
Victoria’s decor and event planning
specializing in wedding planning and wedding decor
nominated 2011 sarnia lambton chamber of commerce outstanding customer service award-individual
1362 lambton mall rd. (inside my secret garden) 519.384.4218 after hours: 519.542.8256 evening appointments available victoriasdecor@sympatico.ca www.victoriasdecor.com
ambiance... What will make your wedding really stand out? The decorations! Your guests will remember the way they felt as they entered your reception room. Warm and welcoming, fun and flamboyant, elegant and subdued... your choice.
Decorations do much, much more than make a room look pretty, they are a statement of your personality and an indication of the evening to come. Let your guests know it’s going to be fabulous from the moment they arrive.
“He asked me to go shopping”
Megan’s
Engagement story One Friday afternoon, Tom came home from work and told me to get ready, because we were going to go shopping. Being the typical girl, I was in heaven, its not too often that he wants me to go shopping. So we headed to the mall. Just recently finding out that we were pregnant with our second son, I was doing more window shopping than anything. We were just about done shopping when we walked in front of the jewellery store. I jokingly said, “Oh perhaps we should go in here?” To my shock Tom actually stopped and took a hold of my hand. He looked at me and said, “Megan if you agree to keep it under budget, you can go in there.” Having no idea what he was talking about, I kind of looked at him funny. He said nothing for a minute until we were in the store standing in front of the ring cabinet. He then looked at me and
Megan & Tom will be married October 8, 2011 Photograph by Amy Lucio
said, “All you have to do is say yes, and you can pick out your favourite.” Still in shock that this was actually happening, and overcome with hormones, I was able to fight back the tears of joy and say yes. It was one of the best days I’ve ever had!! Now we’re just wrapping up the details for our October wedding. Our sons Landon (three and a half) and Bennette (16 months) will be our ring bearers. p
Let Your Dreams Unfold A division of Par-Tee Golf Rental Inc.
Par-Tee Rentals of Petrolia offers Style, Originality and Service Beyond Expectation * Wedding Packages * Wedding Savings Program
Par-Tee Rentals of Petrolia offers creative designs, unique possibilities, fresh new ideas, quality products, free consultations, no hidden fees, best value, personal customer service from start to finish - guaranteed. Lambton County’s most trusted event planning, dÊcor design and rental company. Call Today for Best Selection. 4490 Progress Drive, Petrolia . 519-882-0466 . www.par-teedecor.com . www.par-tee.com
Celebration & Decorations event planning
.
decorating
.
rentals
Stacey & Nick ~ September 4, 2010 Photograph by: Sarah Graham Photography
Special Attention The children in your wedding party will have to be given some special consideration. A flowergirl will be less nervous if she is not alone. Having two or more will add to their confidence and the cuteness factor will be delightful. Give them lots of practice until they are comfortable with walking down the isle. Patti Atkins, Certified Event Planner Bridal Consultant & Decorator
519-351-0222 treas_memories@yahoo.ca
treasuredmemoriesdecor.com
Love doesn’t make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile. Franklin P. Jones
Assign someone who will watch over them, keep them calm before the ceremony and take them outside if they become upset. At the reception, if room permits, have a table just for the little ones supplied with colouring books, crayons, building blocks, bubbles, puzzles, etc. If possible, have a place for them to lie down later in the evening so that parents can relax and enjoy themselves.
Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Customer Service Award Winner
Full Service: Ceremony & Hall Decorating Wedding Planner On Site ~ Fresh & Silk Wedding Flowers Over 1000 Invitation Ideas 746 Exmouth St., Sarnia . 519-339-1414 . 1-877-778-3555 . www.lapiersflowers.com
everything you can imagine for your wedding
Kathy & Jon ~ October 9, 2010 Photography by Phos3
largest inventory in southern ontario
140 Front St. N. Sarnia 519.344.8793 www.ToSuitYourFancy.com Chatham 519.380.5970 London 519.488.5079 Toronto 647.347.8793
a grand entrance deserves a grand exit Couples who stay until the last guest has gone, have reported that it gave them a let down feeling. The guests have gone, the room is empty and the staff is cleaning up. You entered on a high note, so leave on a high note.
When the celebrations begin to wind down and a few guests are leaving, it’s time for you to exit. You will remember ending your wedding day in a beautiful room full of family and guests wishing you well.
disc jockey . lighting . special effects
high quality equipment . digital technology . fully insured & licensed
519-337-5959 shawn@totaltentertainment.ca www.totalentertainment.ca
Breakfast
... the most important meal of the day
I know you have heard this all your life, but it is never more true than on your wedding day. In the excitement of your day, breakfast may slip your mind entirely, and you will feel it later in the day.
Joy & Mark ~ September 25, 2010 Photograph by: Alina Claire Photography
Make sure this doesn’t happen by arranging a wedding day breakfast get together for you and your wedding party. This will give you time to review the day’s plans with your attendants and assure that everyone has a chance to eat something. If wedding day jitters are leaving you with no appetite, at least have some dry toast. A complete lack of food may leave you feeling weak and dizzy later in the day - not the way you want to feel as you walk down the aisle. tip: Pack some crackers in your wedding day emergency kit. You may not be the only one who was too excited to think about breakfast and crackers are a quick fix for everyone.
Jamie & Tyler ~ October 2 , 2010 Photograph by: Lillie Belles Photography
Don’t smother each other. No one can grow in the shade. Leo Buscaglia
how to get them
dancing One thing you don’t want to see at your wedding is an empty dance floor. Getting up to dance can be intimidating when no one else is on the floor, and you need to think of ways to encourage your guests to dance. The more people who are dancing - the more others will join in on the fun. First and foremost is the music. Your DJ must show initiative and able to read the crowd. For example, if the floor tends to clear when he/she plays fast songs, then more slow ones are needed. Encouraging your guests to request their favourite tunes is a great way to get them moving. Have paper and pencils on the tables for guests to write down their requests. These pieces of paper can then be given to the DJ. If you want to see your guests on the dance floor then you should be there too. When they see you up there they will be inspired to join you.
CANADA’S DJ SERVICE canadasdj.com
Free
Setup & Take-Down Light & Smoke Show Travel Within one hour
20 Years Experience
Weddings . Banquets . Stag & Doe’s Over 50,000 Songs . Indoor & Outdoor
Greg or Cameron 519-332-6149 or 519-381-9049
Sarnia, London, Chatham, Grand Bend, Corunna and area.
“It has been said that we need just three things in life: Something to do, Something to look forward to, And someone to love.” Unknown
In advance, ask the members of your wedding party to dance as much as possible and ask them to encourage guests to join in. Ask them to keep an eye on the guests and try to include them by approaching tables and requesting partners. Or even have a few ‘snowball’ dances where the bride and groom dance until the DJ says ‘snowball’ and the couples separate and find a new partner. When the DJ says ‘snowball’ again these couples separate and find more new partners. Have all of your guests on the dance floor for a group photo, followed immediately with a great dance tune. Since they are already on the dance floor they will be encouraged to participate and you will have a great photo. The bouquet and garter toss is another great time to keep them on their feet. Encourage dancing but don’t force it. Bear in mind that some people just don’t dance or more importantly don’t want to. Let each guest have a good time in their own way. p
It’s Your Day... Let Us Create the Magic! Music is intertwined throughout your entire wedding day. From the time guests arrive for the ceremony, to the last dance. Our expertise and experience will make your day “Magical”.
519-851-8749
www.PROFESSIONALMC.com
Fresh & Silk Wedding Flowers Florals for Wedding Cakes Centrepiece Rentals ~ Invitations & More Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Customer Service Award Winner
The only reward for love is the experience of loving. John LeCarre
746 Exmouth St., Sarnia . 519-339-1414 . 1-877-778-3555 . www.lapiersflowers.com
Something old, something new... how Kate Kept the tradition This old superstition/tradition dates back to Britain in the mid 1500’s (that’s when the sixpence was minted) and like most brides today, Kate included it in her Royal wedding too.
Something borrowed ~ Queen Elizabeth lent Kate a ‘halo’ tiara to hold her veil in place. The tiara was given to Elizabeth on her 18th birthday by her mother and was designed by Cartier in 1936.
Something old ~ Using a lace technique that dates back to the 1800s fulfilled this part of the charm. Kate’s gown was designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen.
Something blue ~ A blue ribbon was sewn inside Kate’s dress.
Something New ~ On her wedding day, Kate’s parents gave her the necessary ‘something new’ in the form of diamond earrings featuring stylized oak leaves and acorns to represent the Middleton’s new coat of arms.
My Secret Garden For the finest in flowers.
and a silver sixpence in her shoe ~ We don’t know about this one, but if Kate did have a sixpence in her shoe it had to be very uncomfortable. Perhaps, with a wedding that cost around 65 million pounds, a silver sixpence seemed redundant. PS: That 65 million was not spent entirely on the wedding itself. Approximately 30 million went to security.
The meaning of flowers FLOWER NAME MEANING
Amaryllis Pride, Beauty Bachelor’s Button Celibacy, Hope Bridal Rose Happy, Love Carnation Red I long for you Chrysanthemum Red I love you Chrysanthemum White Truth Crocus Youthful, Gladness
Our design team will help you choose the perfect wedding flowers. 1362 Lambton Mall Rd., Sarnia 519-542-3301 1-800-845-0143 www.mysecretgarden.ca
Amber & Ian ~ September 5, 2010 Photograph by: Deb Behnke
Floral Boutique 1380 London Road 519-542-8475
We speak the language of love!
We put passion and devotion into hundreds and hundreds of bouquets. Call for a free consultation. Be one of our special brides!
You answered “yes” to his question... now let us answer all of yours! Floral Design & Decorating Services
Providing both the flowers and decorating rentals, allows us to beautifully coordinate the colours and theme of your wedding day and simplifies your planning. free consultation
92 Main St. Ridgetown 519-350-0077
www.k-designs.ca
Katie & Jeffrey ~ August 21, 2010 Photograph by: Barefeet Photography
The tradition of the
an Irish Blessing “May flowers always line your path and sunshine light your day. May songbirds serenade you every step along the way. May a rainbow run beside you in a sky that's always blue. And may happiness fill your heart each day your whole life through.”
flowergirl
One school of thought claims that the flowergirl and ring bearer is to represent the youth and innocence of the bride and groom. Another says that the petals the flowergirl drops in the bride’s path will protect the bride from evil spirits. When the flowergirl, assisted by the other attendants, carries the bride’s train it is purely a symbol of the formality of the ceremony.
bringing flowers to life with silk
It is best not to have very young flowergirls and ring bearers stand with the other attendants during the ceremony. These little ones may get restless and become a distraction. Flowers in your bridesmaids’ hair is an option that gives an elegant touch, but flowers in your flowergirls hair is a must. Few things in life are more charming than a little girl all dressed up with flowers in her hair. By THE WAY, girls can be ushers too. If you have a shortage of little boys to act as ushers in your wedding, the new trend of making the girls ushers will solve your problem. The term usher does not necessarily refer to a male only. The dictionary definition is “a person who escorts people”.
519-491-1751 www.theflowergarden.info the_flower_garden_fb@yahoo.ca
To associate them with the other members of the wedding party, dress them in colours that match or coordinate with your bridesmaids, or in colours that match the grooms attendants... adorable!!!
www.budgowan.com
Kim & Henry ~ September 25, 2010 Photograph by: Digital Footprints Photography
London 551 York St Head Office & Superstore 519-672-6210 London White Oaks Mall 519-668-6650 Sarnia 746 Exmouth St. 519-336-3114 Chatham 10 King St. W. 519-351-9484 Additional stores throughout Ontario
1-866-784-6210
accessory colour match guaranteed
Mention this ad when registering your wedding to receive: Free Grooms Tuxedo Rental + 40% off Wedding Invitations + $30 Off Each Additional Attendants Order
Boutonniere The groom’s boutonniere comes from medieval times when knights, as a statement of love, would wear their lady’s colours. This is continued today with the primary flowers in the bride’s bouquet being used as the primary part of the boutonniere. Like the bride’s bouquet, other flowers, greenery or even berries can be added. Saira & Bradley ~ November 19, 2010 Photograph by: Morgan Cashman - Bellagio
A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person. Mignon McLaughlin
FORMAL WEAR
In order to distinguish the groom from the groomsmen, have the groom’s boutonniere more lavish and distinct by using different colours and flowers. It is best to have the groomsmen’s flowers complement the colours of the bridesmaids gowns. Fathers and grandfathers also wear boutonnieres which are generally a little less elaborate. Keep in mind the body frame of the males in the wedding party. A large man requires a large boutonniere and vice versa. If there is a mixture of shapes and sizes you will have to find a comfortable ‘in between’.
Kristen & Jonas ~ August 21, 2010 Photograph by: Lens on Life
By the way, boutonnieres are worn on the left side and pinned from underneath the lapel to hide the pin.
ext raordinary
we carry the ordinary... but we specialize in the
1-877-434-4184 Over 300 locations across Canada
www.collinsformalwear.com
Fit Bodies Don’t Just Happen, They’re Made !
Feel Better, Look Better, Be Healthier !
dynamic fitness by lorrie Certified Personal Trainer Specialist private training facility available, or ironworks gym one on one personal training or for groups of 2 or 3
Lorrie Williams lwilliams11@cogeco.ca 519-541-1005
Nicki Gould Real Photography
T otal H air & B ody C are
We Love What We Do & It Shows 4214 Petrolia Line
519-882-4011
www.totalhaircare.ca
The Big Announcement Your Parents
Whoever loved that loved not at first sight? Christopher Marlowe
Announce your engagement in person to your parents. This is a moment you will cherish with your parents forever, and there is nothing better than seeing them overcome with joy. Tip: Do not announce the news over the phone or through a text message. This is not personable and your parents deserve the utmost respect.
Friends and Family “Professional Hair Care with a Personal Touch”
We Offer Group Wedding Rates Formal Updo Styling Colours & Highlights Precision Cutting & Styling Conditioning Treatments Perms . Facial Waxing
1171 Pontiac Drive, Sarnia 519-383-8040
Contact your siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles and other close relatives. Get in touch with close friends and make sure to notify those that will take part in the bridal party. Organize a small gathering at your family’s house and invite all your relatives. For close friends, plan a casual dinner date and announce the good news to all at the dinner table.
The Office Your close colleagues should find out next. Afterwards, inform those that sit nearby. Informing them directly is a kind and respectful gesture as they are likely to overhear others congratulating you in person and over the phone. Let the office grapevine take it from there! Tip: Since you are in a professional environment, let your colleagues know in private during a coffee break or wait until lunch time. This will mitigate unintentional shouts of excitement and ensure others are not disturbed.
Facebook aka the rest of the world! Change your Facebook status to “Engaged” and brace yourself as the flood of comments pour in. Post a picture of your engagement and change your profile picture to you and your fiancé. p
Rosa & Mauro ~ July 10, 2010 Photograph by: Sarah Graham Photography
Danielle & Oscar ~ June 19, 2010 Photograph by: Lens on Life
Zerlinda & Justen ~ October 23, 2010 Photograph by: Lillie Belles Photography
To Love
Alicia & Dan ~ August 14, 2010 Photograph by: Jer Wilcocks Photography
To love is to share The good and the bad, The joy and the sorrow, Sad days and the glad.
To love is to forgive The large and the small, As forgiving then to forget, Instead of recall.
To love is to give Again and again. To please and to pamper, Such joy it will bring.
To love is to lose Something precious and dear; Yet gracefully give it up Without even a tear.
Christine Smith
No distractions
please!
Under the Famous Blue Awnings
1362 Lambton Mall Rd., Sarnia 519-542-4126
youngandco.ca
Accept this ring as a sign of my commitment rather than my wealth. True love has no price, but it offers infinite value. Unknown
During the wedding ceremony, the wedding attendants should remain still, attentive and quiet. A bridesmaid who bites her nails throughout the ceremony, or fidgets with her bouquet is a huge distraction. I have seen it happen more than once. Walking down the aisle and standing before an audience makes most people self-conscious and that’s when nervous habits come into play. One bridesmaid twisted her hair around her finger throughout the ceremony, while one of the groomsmen stared down at his foot, which he was continually rubbing along the floor. It is most likely that these people are not aware that their nervous habit has taken over. Explain to them that it is a very important moment in your life and you would appreciate their undivided attention. Ask everyone to keep an eye on each other, and if nervous habits should appear a gentle tap or nudge should stop it.
beginnings like a marriage... every piece is a new beginning.
metal sculptor & mixed media artist designing images that are affordable to everyone. image reproduction for invitations, & cards & gifts. browse by appointment. bridal registry available.
One of a kind, unforgettable sculptures signed by the artist and designed to celebrate this beginning. Each piece is personalized and authenticated.
William Clawson Sarnia 519-869-2836 wclawson@cogeco.ca williamclawson.ca
Symbols of Love You will be exchanging wedding bands as symbols of your love and commitment. Choosing the bands is right up there with choosing the engagement ring when it comes to importance. These are the rings you will be wearing for the rest of your life, so do some legwork. What better quality time can you have with your fiancé than choosing wedding rings. Gold, silver, platinum, tri-coloured, textured, smooth, with or without gems. There are a lot of choices out there and it’s a good idea to get familiar with them before making any final decisions. Not all rings suit all fingers. If your hands are small and his are large it may take a little time to find bands that complement both. Shop, enjoy and find the bands that are perfect for both of you.
Eskimo Love Song Bethany & Nathan ~ October 9, 2010 Photograph by: Lens on Life
You are my husband, you are my wife. My feet shall run because of you. My feet dance because of you. My heart shall beat because of you. My eyes see because of you. My mind thinks because of you.
Laura & Jeff ~ July 31, 2010 Photograph by: Nicki Gould Real Photography
And I shall love, because of you.
www.ikbboutique.com Unique Jewellery & Accessories Headpieces . Necklaces . Rings
ingrid@ikbboutique.com 519.466.7676 I help br i d e s -to -b e e a rn th e i r w edding j e w e l l e ry fo r F R EE! A s k me h o w !
lia sophia SHARE THE LOVE OF JEWELLERY®
“Every time I go to work I end up at a party” Karen Anderson lia sophia Leader 519-330-9937 mane.3@live.com
w w w. l i a s o p h i a . c a / k a r e n a n d e r s o n
Jennifer & Toby ~ July 31, 2010 Photograph by: Jer Wilcocks Photography
Katie & Josh ~ March 2, 2010 Photography by: Donna Nolan Photography
Elegant Journey The idea of being chauffeured has been with us in one way or another since the 1700’s. Fine carriages and horses were the status symbol of the era, and until the 1900’s being chauffeured was conserved for the very wealthy... then came the automobile.
Stretch your imagination with us!
GRANDEURlimousine
Around 1928 the first stretch limousines were created and their main use was to transport famous bands of the day. By the 30’s, hotels began using limousines to transport their guests to and from the airport. Until this point a limousine was still reserved for the famous and wealthy. Hollywood helped change all that. When movie stars began being photographed getting in and out of limousines, the rest of the world caught on and by the mid 60’s the use of a limousine became a symbol of luxury that everyone could enjoy. Thank you Hollywood! If you have never ridden in a chauffeured limousine you are in for the treat of your life. It is an experience you will never forget. Not only because of the luxury, but because today’s limousines are equipped with comforts that the richest 17th century noble could not even imagine.
southwestern
ontario’s only
40 passenger
limousine coach
519-453-7307 1-877-246-2844 www.grandeurlimousine.com voted best limousine service in southwestern ontario
On your wedding day you should be treated like royalty and nothing adds a regal touch the way a limousine does. This is a luxury that you can’t afford to miss and it’s practical too. Having your wedding party chauffeured assures that everyone will be there together and on time.
Your wedding day is the perfect time to indulge in this elegant journey.
Prestige Limousine
Town Cars, Limousines, Vans, SUV & Bus
“Arrive With Prestige�
Diana & Joel ~ December 18, 2010 Photograph by: Ashia McKaig
www.p rest igelim ou sin e.b iz 1121 Evett St., Unit A 519-337-1510 1-888-252-4517 . prestigeheritagelimo@hotmail.com
...tip Laura & Ian ~ July 20, 2010 Photography by Phos3
Because some of your guests will bring their gifts to the reception, you will have to prearrange a safe place to keep them and for someone to be responsible for taking them home when the celebrations are over. In a crowded room where not everyone knows everyone else, it would be fairly easy for a stranger to slip into and out of the room, taking your gifts with them.
Luxury Coaches
state of the art vehicles to accommodate your entire wedding party.
Serving Chatham-Kent & Sarnia/Lambton
519-692-3976 1-800-668-1974
dougb@badderbus.com
www.badderbus.com
G oing
G reat L engths Please Y ou
to
to
Voted Southwestern Ontario’s Best Limousine Service Leah & Duncan ~ September 11, 2010 Photograph by: Jer Wilcocks Photography
46623 Talbot Line (between St. Thomas and Alymer) 800-858-2664 www.auniversal.com It is not only necessary to love, It is necessary to say so. French proverb
Windsor’s #1 Limousine Service
Wedding Specialists
accomodating 2-30 passengers 519-254-0001 www.royallimousinesofwindsor.com
If there is such a thing as a good marriage, it is because it resembles friendship rather than love. Michel de Montaigne
bonbonniere The tradition of giving favours to your guests has a long history and appears to have descended from different sources. The ancient Romans would present their guests with a gift of food and the early Europeans gave small boxes containing some sort of sugar based delicacy. The French name for these little boxes of treats was bonbonniere. In the case of the very wealthy, the boxes were encrusted with precious gems. With or without gems the treats were extravagant because sugar was very expensive and only the rich could afford it. Over time sugar became lower in price and the gift of sweets became a popular wedding favour that everyone was able to give. Our ancestors considered weddings to be good luck and when the bride and groom bestow gifts they are said to be passing their luck on to guests. Somewhere along the way presenting guests with five sugared almonds took centre stage. Each almond represented one of five blessings: fertility, health, wealth, happiness and longevity. For a little fun with your favours, have tags with one of the blessings written on it and place them all into a large basket or bowl. Have your guests choose one to find out what their blessing is.
INVITATIONS On your invitations, every word is spelled in full. This includes the time, date and year. The exceptions to this rule are Saint (St.) and Mount (Mt.). Always use the word ‘and’ never use ‘&’. Things change and you may decide to add someone to your guest list so order extra invitations just in case.
rentals
Send out your invitations at least six weeks prior, and if you have out of town guests eight weeks would be better. Send one to your parents and your fiance’s parents. Naturally they don’t have to reply, but it will make a wonderful keepsake.
linens ~ wine glasses backdrops ~ centrepieces stanchions & more
As the replies come in, keep a list of who has and who has not responded. For anyone who has not answered a week after the reply date, give them a call and confirm.
invitations ~ party favours
Let your invitations reflect both the mood and degree of formality of your wedding. A highly formal invitation implies a highly formal wedding and your guests will prepare accordingly. For inviting two people who live at the same address, but have different names, use both names in alphabetical order and on separate lines.
1407 London Rd., Sarnia 519-541-2353 www.thepartyplacesarnia.com
No wedding is complete until you say ‘Thank you’ to your guests. Knowing this, P o s t N e t generously gave Ashley and Chris, our Sarnia/Chatham cover winners, custom designed thank you cards. PostNet invites you to come to their location and let them help you design your own personalized invitations and thank you cards. Read Ashley’s story on page 68
Life f Love f Art
www.lorriewilliams.com . 519-541-1005
6
pages of
local fashions
London/St. Thomas
Sarnia/Chatham
Windsor/Essex
Photographer: Reflections by Terri
Photographer: John Lyons
Photographer: Britton Images
Gowns: Courtney Rose Bridal Fashions
Gowns: Aliya Bridal Fashions
Gowns: Bridal Couture
Hair: Scizzorhands
Hair: Form & Function
Hair: Classic Re Creations Hair Studio
Makeup: Scizzorhands
Makeup: Sarah Vidican
Makeup: Makeup by Klaudia
Bouquet: McInnis Flowers & Gifts
Bouquet: The Purple Pansy
Bouquet: I & F Design
Location: Best Western Lamplighter Inn
Location: Chatham Capital Theatre
Location: Caesars Windsor
Photographer: Reflections by Terri Gowns: Courtney Rose Bridal Fashions Hair & Makeup: Scizzorhands Bouquet: McInnis Flowers & Gifts Location: Best Western Lamplighter Inn
Colin Graf
Classical Guitar
Romantic live music to set the mood for your wedding. 519-337-9843 thegrafs@xcelco.on.ca Whether it’s stately classical music for an unforgettable entrance, such as the famous Wedding March, or the softly passionate Spanish Ballad, or an arrangement of a favourite popular song for nylon strings, Sarnia guitarist Colin Graf has the perfect sound to create an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Colin can make a list of musical selections available on request. Arrangements are also underway to provide duo guitar and flute music.
Music can be heard at myspace.com/colingraf
guests are waiting The wedding day ‘photo shoot’ usually takes place between the ceremony and reception. This means that your guests are waiting for you to reappear and get on with the rest of the day. One way to keep this as short as possible is to have the shoot site somewhere away from everyone not involved in the pictures. If you are continually interrupted by well meaning guests coming to say congratulations, it will slow everything down and throw off the timing for the rest of the day. For an outdoor photo shoot in warm weather, come armed with a cooler full of water. Stay away from drinks such as grape juice and even orange juice. If there should be a spill they will leave marks, water won’t. Moistened face wipes are another good thing to include, great for freshening up on a hot day. If you know ahead of time that your photo shoot will be time consuming, arrange a place for your guests to wait and supply them with drinks, munchies and if possible entertainment.
fashion
etiquette of
Even the most modern and fashionable wedding should be based on etiquette because etiquette is just another word for good manners. This is your day and above all else, you should do what makes you happy, but you will also want your family and members of your wedding party to be (almost) as happy as you are. At one time it was the mother of the bride who planned the wedding and although today most brides plan the wedding themselves, it is still up to the mother of the bride to take the lead when it comes to the mother of the groom. The bride’s mother should contact the fiancé’s mother to talk with her about the attire for the big day. If the bride’s mother chooses a long gown, the groom’s mother should Who’s who? follow suit. This is not a hard and fast rule Make a list of everyone and everything you don’t want to miss and go over this but it looks much better if the mothers list with your photographer. There will be moments and people at your wedding have a consistency to their attire. that you will want recorded with a photograph. Also, give this list to someone who is familiar with the families and ask him/her to be available to the photographer, Bridesmaids should be sensitive to the who probably won’t know any of your guests and will need to have assistance in colours and designs the bride wants for determining who’s who. her wedding party. It is her wedding day and her vision. If she wants purple, and NOTE: Ask your photographer to get some shots of your venue before the guests the dress looks good on you, then purple arrive and while everything is perfectly in place. In the excitement of the day this it should be. It’s the bride’s prerogative unique shot can be overlooked. to choose her maid’s wedding attire, so if the dress fits - wear it.
In turn, the bride should listen to what her bridesmaids have to say and be willing to accommodate their requirements. Individual body types have to be considered and one dress may not suit all. Consider having a few different designs in mind and let them choose which it will be. Each bridesmaid does not have to be identical. Dresses made of the same material and colour but in different designs are every bit as appealing. If you are planing a formal wedding, let your guests know by mentioning “formal attire” or “black tie” in your invitations. p
Fashion changes...
etiquette is always in style.
Cameron’s Candids custom & professional photography Making Photography Affordable
519-845-0823
Every woman loves a well dressed man! Model’s adorable attire by
®
Get a brand-new tuxedo or suit to keep. Learn how at mooresclothing.com/tuxoffers
your budget Determining and sticking to a budget is wedding planning 101. In the excitement of the engagement, your mind will be filled with visions of gowns and flowers, not budgets, so take some time and enjoy the fun before coming to any decisions about anything. Don’t make any sudden and binding decisions while you are on the engagement high. When you have reentered our atmosphere and you are more level headed it’s time to think about finances. First, talk with your fiance (and family if they are pitching in) and decide exactly what you will be spending on your wedding. Step two is planning your guest list. Once you have these two steps finalized, it’s time to figure out if you will have the funds to cover the wedding you want. Do some research to find out what everything will cost. Don’t forget to include the pre-wedding festivities. Invitations, lunch with your bridesmaids, the rehearsal dinner, everything must be factored in. Discuss and agree on your list of priorities, and allocate the budget funds accordingly. Account for hidden costs such as tipping and taxes. If you are adamant about having your guests dancing and drinking but don’t want to break the bank, have an open bar until 8 pm and make it a cash bar afterwards to reduce costs. Research the date of the wedding as this can significantly impact the cost. For instance, having a wedding during an off season such as October or holding the wedding on a Sunday as opposed to Saturday can result in a big difference in costs.
An approximate breakdown of costs would be: Reception Site, Food & Drinks 50% Photography 10% Attire & Accessories for Couple 10% Videography 5% Disc Jockey 5% Flowers 5% Transportation 5% Gifts & Favours 3% Wedding Cake 2% Officiant 2% Invitations 2% Hair & Makeup for Bride 1% If your budget does not measure up to your dreams, the first thing to do is trim the guest list and keep trimming until you have the big three (venue, food, drinks) pared down to fit your finances. Too many couples get carried away with the excitement of wedding planning and far exceed their budget, ending up in debt. Financial issues are not a good way to begin a marriage and you are putting a strain on your relationship from the very beginning. PS: No matter how carefully you have planned your budget, be sure to leave a contingency fund. There is every chance unexpected expenses will arise, so be ready for them.
ADVANTAGE Portable Toilet Services
Custom Made Interiors
Comforts of home away from home.
White Wedding Units
519-238-2291 or 1-877-738-2291 www.gbsanitation.com
Successful Events Begin With Us! Weddings . Showers . Parties . and More w w w. festiv a ltent .c om
Major Event Specialists Corunna 618 St. Clair Parkway 519-862-4010 1-800-873-3977 Fax: 519-862-4012 sarnia@festivaltent.com
wide variety of tent sizes dance floors & accessories food service equipment party games & supplies
tables, chairs, china & linens wedding accessories fun inflatables portable toilets (windsor only)
Windsor 4595 County Rd. 46 (1 M east of Walker Rd) R.R. #3 Maidstone, ON 519-737-9200 info@festivaltent.com
catering showers ~ stag & does ~ outdoor weddings
Betty-Lou & Justin ~ July 10, 2010 Photograph by: Star Photography
A BBQ feast your guests won’t forget.
sarnia meat products Call John at 519-490-8292 or 519-331-2400
Brittany & Chris ~ July 31, 2010 Photograph by: John Lyons Weddings
Fine Dining in a Friendly Atmosphere
bridal showers rehearsal dinners intimate wedding receptions for up to 50 guests
1591 London Rd., Sarnia 519-541-1333
We are each of us angels with only one wing. And we can only fly embracing each other. Luciano de Crescenzo
The
Brigantine
Steak & Seafood
Create your own menu. Bridal Showers . Rehearsal Dinners Wedding Receptions for up to 80 people 1717 London Line, Sarnia For Reservations Call: 519-542-5553
Celebrity Weddings in 2011 January 1 Shania Twain & Fred Thiebaud February 25 Kayte Walsh & Kelsey Grammer March 26 Reese Witherspoon & Jim Toth April 22 Leann Rimes & Eddie Cibrian April 29 Kate Middleton & Prince William May 14 Miranda Lambert & Blake Shelton May 20 Luisana Lopilato & Michael BublĂŠ June 11 Lily Allen & Sam Cooper June 18 Sara MacDonald & Noel Gallagher June 25 Rachel Weisz & Daniel Craig June 27 America Ferrera & Ryan Piers Williams July 1 Kate Moss & Jamie Hince
A mixing of cultures
Wedding Style
My American friend, Kelvin, recently married a wonderful Korean girl named Ellis, who also happened to be a friend of mine. The couple decided to have a traditional Korean wedding as opposed to a modern Korean or North American style wedding. Both Kelvin's friends and family members from America, and Ellis' from Korea all attended the traditional wedding. It was held in a beautiful wedding garden and temple. The ceremony began with both the bride and groom dressed in traditional Korean Hanbok wedding gowns. First, the groom was carried in like royalty, on a chair called a ‘gama’ and then he waited for his bride. Ellis was then carried in by her friends on a much more extravagant gama chariot. The couple met at an alter set with a lot of food and drinks, as well as wooden ducks symbolizing a life long commitment to their mate. Then they performed their first of many low bows to each other, which in Korean culture is a sign of promise and much respect.
Kelvin then experienced a traditional hand washing from his future mother in law, a symbol of preserving his innocence. After sipping on some rice wine with the couples’ parents, the games began. The parents tossed little Korean candies and fruit at the bride and groom, as Kelvin and Ellis attempted to catch the treats in their stretched out Hanbok gowns. The number of fruit they successfully caught is said to predict the number of children they will have in the future. The bride and groom then shared the fruit using only their mouth to signify their togetherness. The rest of the ceremony played out very similar to a western style wedding with an officiant. They stood side by side and listened to an elders’ words of wisdom. Finally, Kelvin lifted his new bride onto his back and circled around the temple numerous times before the newlyweds exited the temple as husband and wife. Being a very traditional and extremely conservative culture, their ceremony did not involve the much anticipated first kiss, nor did they have the opportunity to exchange rings. Since many of their new family had flown half way around the world for their wedding, the couple decided to add an important western element to their special day, by having a reception. Usually, not even modern Korean weddings involve a post wedding reception party, so this decision proved to be the icing on the cake for the couple. At their reception, Kelvin and Ellis found themselves standing on stage in front of all their family and friends thanking them for coming, speaking in both Korean and English. Their DJ was very unfamiliar with wedding receptions, so he nervously left the microphone in Kelvin's hands. In front of a mostly Korean crowd and not being fluent in the language, Kelvin anxiously asked his new wife what to do. Excited about the western traditions, Ellis was quick to announce in both languages that they would be cutting their wedding cake. Then, they once again got back up on stage to exchange their rings and shared their first kiss with everyone as husband and wife. After they completed all their western wedding customs, Kelvin once again found himself as his own master of ceremonies, with microphone in hand. Feeling guilty for hanging Kelvin out to dry, the DJ was quick to open a book of songs for Kelvin to choose from.
“Unfortunately for Kelvin, karaoke is incredibly popular in Korea.”
132
Ellis & Kelvin ~ Busan, South Korea ~ June 10, 2011
Kelvin's American friends had the unique opportunity to listen to him romantically perform to his bride the Oasis classic, "Wonderwall". Their wedding was an unforgettable, joyful experience enjoyed by all. p
Wedding Planning Specialists
Chatham-Kent
244 Queen St., Chatham Cruise Holidays Tel: 519-352-5524 1-877-352-5150 www.cruiseholidayschatham.com “TICO # 50016006
Trip Tips & Packing Essentials
by Marlin Travel Sarnia
Congratulations, you’ve finally decided on the trip of your dreams, booked it, paid it in full and the excitement builds as you start to pack. Regardless of where you are travelling, the most time consuming part is deciding what and what not to take. Whether it is for a destination wedding, honeymoon, business or leisure; these are some key essentials to remember when packing.
Don’t Over Pack
Avoid those excess luggage fees and pack smart. Here is a great tip to keep your weight down when travelling. Start by planning your wardrobe; you don’t need 3 outfits per day. Narrow it down to skirts, pants or shorts that can be paired up with different tops later on in your holiday. Try and stick with easy to travel and light weight clothes that can weather a few wrinkles. Keep in mind when packing denim, shoes, and sweaters add the most weight; if you are travelling to a country with high humidity it will add about 5 lbs to your luggage on the way home. If you have packed your suitcase and it’s full to bursting you need to go through and cut it down by half; if you don’t wear it at home, chances are you won’t wear it on your trip.
What to Pack
Make sure you have comfortable clothing that you feel comfortable in. • Take at least 1 pair of runners or very comfortable shoes. You’ll be grateful for these trustworthy shoes when you are walking down the uneven cobblestone streets, climbing up a wet stone staircase, or traipsing through the jungle to the next zip line.
• Always take one or two nice dinner outfits or dresses as you never know when you might have the urge to dress up for dinner one night. Keep in mind dresses are a full day of wear, dress it up or down. Take a strappy pair of sandals that can be dressed up or dressed down and used with multiple outfits. • Check with the country you are travelling to and see if an adapter and converter is required. If purchasing a new converter look for one with a high / low setting. This will help you to control the current going to your appliance. Always start off low especially for hair flat irons. • Take a small umbrella or light rain jacket. It’s something you can plan on, but you’ll be the smart traveler when you pull that small umbrella out of your bag. • Over the counter drugs are not readily available in all countries. An example is that children’s Tylenol is not available in France. Make sure to take what you believe you will need such as: Imodium, Advil, Tylenol, Zantac, Tums, and Pepto Bismol. These may not be readily available in the country you are travelling too, and may cost you small fortune if purchasing locally. You’ll be happy to have them, should something arise that requires it. • Tide Pen, and peroxide. Help get rid of those unexpected stains, so you can keep your clothes neat, clean and tidy.
Carry On
Aside from packing your entertainment for the plane trip of magazines, books, crosswords, ipods, ipads and kobo readers; remember to also pack the following:
• A pen – you’ll always need to fill out landing cards on pretty much every flight. Be prepared. • Change of clothes, this is important not only if your luggage goes missing, but if you have an unfortunate accident and have spilled your lunch onto your lap. If you are travelling for a destination wedding or important meeting, take your event clothes with you, if nothing else, you won’t be showing up at the event in a Hawaiian shirt. • Pack some of the travel size toiletries (under 100 ml up to 1 litre) that way upon landing if your stuff has been misplaced you don’t have to go searching and paying an exorbitant amount of money at the resort gift shop. Include: hand sanitizer, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, suntan lotion, and toothpaste/brush. • Take your medicine in your carry on luggage; insure that your prescription is in its original bottle with your prescription showing your name on it.
LA DOLCE VITA
Honeymoon under the Italian Sun A visit to this romantic country can include a wide range of unique experiences - delicious cuisine, striking scenery, historical sites and world-class museums.
• Be sure to pack your passport, insurance card, travel documents and currency with you.
Transat Holidays is your number one choice for travel to Italy.
• Snacks are always a good idea to pack; you may not eat it on the plane, although you may require it later in your journey. Travelling with a couple of granola bars do not go amiss. Try and find multiple uses for the clothing that you love, and want to have the travel memories of. Be comfortable in the clothes that you wear and enjoy your vacation. Plan and pack smarter not heavier. --
Bon Voyage!
• Coach Tours
• Cruises
• Semi Escorted Tours
• Excurions
• Seaside Packages
• Villas
• Countryside Packages • City Hopping
• À la carte Accommodations
• City Packages
• Car Rentals
p
To help budget for the honeymoon you’ve always dreamed of, Marlin Travel, Lambton Mall offers a Honeymoon Gift Registry. Register today! Lambton Mall – 1380 London Rd, Sarnia
519-542-3424 or 1-866-542-3424
The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.
Transat Holidays is a division of Transat Tours Canada Inc. , and is registered as a travel wholesaler in Ontario (Ont reg # 50009486) with offices at 191 The West Mall, Suite 800 Etobicoke, ON M9C 5K8. Printed July 2011
St. Augustine BRIDAL CONFIDENTIAL • 2/3 PAGE • 2011/2012
Miranda & Chad ~ August 14, 2010 Photograph by: Star Photography
Loni & Ross ~ May 10, 2010 Photograph by: John Lyons Weddings
quotes on Wine I was in love with a beautiful blonde once. She drove me to drink; that’s the one thing I’m indebted to her for. W. C. Fields
It is well to remember that there are five reasons for drinking: the arrival of a friend; one’s present or future thirst; the excellence of the wine; or any other reason.
Sarnia Lambton’s Wedding Wine Specialists for over 12 years. Save money and personalize your Wedding Wine with our Customized Labels Let us help you create the Perfect Wines for your Special Day Satisfaction Guaranteed
Latin saying
Wine is one of the most civilized things in the world and one of the most natural things of the world that has been brought to the greatest perfection, and it offers a greater range for enjoyment and appreciation than, possibly, any other purely sensory thing. Ernest Hemingway
645 Lakeshore Rd. (at Colborne) Sarnia 519-337-0303 www.winekitz.com lakeshoreartisanwines@bellnet.ca
making wine... making memories Making your own wedding wine, choosing customized labels and serving the finished product to your guests, gives that personal touch. You may never own your own vineyard but you can make wine that, just like your wedding, is uniquely yours.
Hayley & Mark ~ September 11, 2010 Photograph by: Star Photography
One Batch of Red, White or Fruit 4 Wk Premium Wine ~ Bottles Included Specialty Labels with your Pictures or Artwork Printed for your Big Day Free Stemware Rental ~ Wine Glasses for the Bride & Groom Gift Certificate for each member of the Wedding Party for 20% off next Kit Heidi & Nathan ~ May 15, 2010 Photograph by: Donna Nolan Photography
470 St. Clair St., Chatham . 519-352-7082
Sean Ryan, Sales Representative
Re/Max sarnia realty inc. 1319 Exmouth St., Sarnia
519-542-9999 1-877-542-9999
sdr@cogeco.ca www.sryan.ca
Helping people find their dream home!
Krista & Jessy ~ August 22, 2010 Photograph by: Star Photography
Michelle & Ian ~ October 16, 2010 Photograph by: Masquerade Photography
Amber & Luke ~ June 4, 2010 Photograph by: Jer Wilcocks Photography
Natalie & Matthew ~ October 9, 2010 Photograph by: Donna Nolan Photography
Sarah & Cha ~ August 14, 2010 Photograph by: John Lyons Weddings
2
nd place winners
Sarnia/Chatham
wedding day
Serena & Dave Williams ~ June 12, 2010
TODAY IS A GOOD DAY fOr A fInAncIAl checkup
keep your finances healthy. I can help.
Right now is an exciting time when you’re beginning to create the life you want to live. You’re building your career and maybe starting a family. And of course, you’re already thinking about your dreams for the future. Wherever your life path takes you, living well means being financial prepared. By starting to plan now, you’ll be ready for what’s around every corner. Starting your financial plan doesn’t have to be complicated or scary. It’s just a matter of taking the right steps to turn ideas into action. Financial planning isn’t just for the wealthy. In fact, the best way to get more out of your money is by having a solid plan in place.
Life’s brighter under the sun
Serena & Dave won Dinner for Two at the Brigantine Restaurant and an overnight stay at the Harbourfront Inn, Sarnia. Photographs courtesy of: Alina Claire Photography
Susan Bechard, BA, CFP, CSC 1-877-837-8064 ext. 2229 susan.bechard@sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/susan.bechard
* Mutual funds offered by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2010.
Bridal Confidential’s
Wedding Event at the
Dante Club photographs courtesy of
Jer Wilcocks Photography
Thanks to our production team
Dante Club . Jennifer Keating Videography Victoria’s Decor . Jer Wilcocks Photography Professional MC/DJ Entertainment
To view more photos and the video visit
bridalconfidential.com
Our thanks to our Fashion Show Sponsors Collins Formal Wear . Caryl Baker Visage JT’s Hair Studio . Jackie’s Bridal Boutique Silhouettes Boutique . Moores Clothing for Men Aliya Bridal Fashions . Bud Gowan Formal Wear
experience the riverfront beauty and hospitality that is hilton windsor
277 Riverside Drive West 519 973-4236 www.windsor.hilton.com
best riverfront valued hotel in the city special rate for wedding groups
Formerly Radisson Riverfront Hotel
DowntownWindsor 33 Riverside Drive, W. Windsor 519-258-7774
www.travelodge-windsor-riverfront.com
333 Riverside Drive, West., Windsor 519-977-9777
www.windsorriversideinn.com
windsor/Essexwinner
Emilynne's photoshootday by Emilynne Muldoon I had heard about the Bridal Confidential Cover Draw from a few friends that were married in 2008. They had attended this amazing draw to be on the cover of the magazine and only a few brides had attended, making their odds very good. I kept this in mind when I became engaged and made sure to register with Bridal Confidential when I attended the wedding show. The day of the draw approached and I was really tired and wasn’t sure about going, but I had told my friend Cara that we would go together, so off we went. As the time approached for the draw, Cara leaned over to me and said she wasn’t expecting to win and my response was that I wasn’t either because I wasn’t that lucky. As I finished that sentence, my name was pulled and I could not believe it, I had won!! Little did I know, not only was it for the cover shoot, but also a fabulous trip as well! Tom and I are really looking forward to our trip to Mexico to the El Dorado Royale Resort and Spa in the Mayan Riviera, which we’ve booked for the end of August, thanks to Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia. The photo shoot day began bright and early with Pat from LiveTech Photography and Videography arriving at my house to film the highlights of the day. Pat did a fantastic job throughout the day by making me feel comfortable while being filmed. Shortly after Pat arrived, a fancy black limo from Limo’s by Mr. J’s pulled up in front of my house to escort me and my mom around town for the day. We began our day by heading to the Holiday Inn & Suites on Huron Church Road to see the gorgeous suite that my husband Tom and I will be enjoying at a later date, along with a romantic dinner at their soon to open restaurant, Grill 55. Our next stop was Harmony Day Spa where I met Lisa, who gave the most luxurious manicure I have ever experienced! On top of the neatly painted French manicure, the arm massage and scent of the lotions left me feeling totally relaxed. Next on the agenda was Salon Attitude, where I was having my hair done. Sarah curled, pinned and sprayed to create the most 146
elegant look, perfect for a cover bride! Upon finishing my hair, we were presented with the most delicious lunch from Season’s Bistro that included amazing chocolate truffles. At this point, I was already feeling quite fabulous, with my nails and hair done, but we were on to our final stop, Beautiful Images, where I met Anna to have my make-up done. She is such a talented make-up artist and just so kind. She gave me a gift bag of goodies to take with me on the way and I left feeling like a stunning bride. Now that all my pampering was done, we headed out to Chalet Studio Photography to meet Janet and Alan for the cover shoot. As soon as I got there, I put on my dress to complete the look, which I was so excited to do, I mean, how many brides get to wear their dress twice?! Janet and Alan are totally amazing and after offering us a drink and showing us around their studio we began the photo shoot. Their studio and picturesque property made for the perfect setting, and with their immense talent and creativity, they got some pretty amazing shots! It was such a blast! The whole day was such a fantastic experience. I feel like the luckiest person having been able to get pampered for the day, wear my dress again, be in a magazine, and take a relaxing vacation! I owe many thanks to all of the generous sponsors – Limo’s by Mr. J’s, Live-Tech Photography and Videography, Salon Attitude, Harmony Day Spa, Beautiful Images, Chalet Studio Photography, Holiday Inn & Suites, Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia, and Kennedy’s Cleaners in Leamington who will be cleaning and preserving my dress for me – but also a HUGE thanks to Bridal Confidential for this amazing opportunity. I really cannot thank you enough!! p Emilynne’s Sponsors Vacation for Two: Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia Photographer: CHALET STUDIO photography Hair Style: SALON ATTITUDE Makeup: BEAUTIFUL IMAGES Limo Service: lIMOS BY MR. J’S Gift Basket: sEASONS bISTRO Manicure: hARMONY DAY SPA Overnight Stay: Holiday Inn & sUTIES Gown Preservation: kENNEDY’S cLEANERS Videos: lIVE-tECH PHOTO . VIDEO Dinner for Two: GRILL 55 View photos and videos at www.bridalconfidential.com
Jessica & Brandon ~ October 28, 2010 Photograph by: Eryn.Shea.Photography
check into www.stayrcc.com Lindsay & Brad ~ September 18, 2010 Photograph by: John Lyons Weddings
Lovers don’t finally meet somewhere. They are in each other’s soul all along. Rumi
“He had a bouquet of roses”
Tanya’s Engagement story On New Year’s Eve 2009, my fiance picked me up from work and took me down by the river. He had a bouquet of white roses with one pink one in the middle. He told me how beautiful I was and had me pull the pink rose out from the middle and the ring was attached to the top of the rose. He then asked me to marry him Tanya & Alan were married May 14, 2011 and I said “YES!”
bridal confidential’s windsor/essex 2011
Cover Draw
at Holiday Inn & Suites
Photographs courtesy of Neil Elias Photography ~ View more photos and the video at www.bridalconfidential.com
1st place
Emilynne Muldoon
Emilynne won a 7 nights all inclusive accommodation at the El Dorado, A Spa Resort, By Karisma, Mayan Riviera, Mexico. Sponsored by Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel, Sarnia. EMILYNNE appears on our cover
Sherry (left) from Marlin Travel Sarnia with Emilynne
2nd place DAWN FENTON
Delicious appetizers served by Grill 55
Entertainment by
Don’s Disc Jockey Service Dawn (left), with Jack from Limos by Mr. J’s. Dawn won dinner for two at Mezzo Ristorante and an overnight stay for two at Windsor Inn On The River.
Door Prizes generously sponsored by Mezzo Ristorante ~ Four $50 Gift Certificates
Our special thanks to everyone who attended!
for her cover shoot day emilynne enjoyed a full day of pampering sponsored by: Transat Holidays and Marlin Travel Sarnia . Holiday Inn & Suites . Salon Attitude . Chalet Studio . Limos by Mr. J’s Harmony Day Spa . Beautiful Images . Kennedy’s Cleaners . Live-Tech Photography & Videography . Season’s Bistro . Grill 55
Riverside Sportsmen Outdoor Weddings for up to 400 guests.
Indoor Wedding for up to 200 guests.
wedding celebrations
.
luncheons
.
showers
.
rehearsal dinners
. catering services
We would like to help you celebrate that important day. 10835 Riverside Dr., E. Windsor
519-735-3031 Ext: 13
www.riversidesportsmenclub.com
“Saint Nicholas� Macedonian Centre weddings . stags . parties . showers accommodating 50 to 450 guests
exceptional
affordable customized menu
quality
& service
proudly serving the community for over 30 years
5225 Howard Ave., LaSalle 519-966-6257 www.macedonianccw.com
Club Alouette
2418 Central Ave. Windsor
Complete Banquet & Catering Facility
519-945-1189
www.clubalouette.ca
Maria & Anthony ~ June 19, 2010 Photograph by: Focal Point Photography
guest Register Alternatives In addition to your guest register, why not have a wishing tree? You don’t have to have a real tree, a tall artificial tree, such as a cherry blossom, would be perfect. Have business sized cards for your guests to write their wishes on. A small hole in the card with a ribbon will allow them to tie their wishes to the tree.
Another idea is an antique bird cage, decorated with feathers and ribbons that match your wedding colours. Add two love birds for the adorable factor. Provide slips of coloured paper for your guests to write their names and wishes for your marriage. Have someone make sure the cage door is open at all times.
19th at Wildwood
Banquet Facilities and Catering for up to 140 Guests Cramdon’s 19th at Wildwood 11112 11th Concession, McGregor 519-726-6176 Cramdon’s Tap & Eatery 3208 Dougall Ave., Windsor 519-966-1228 www.cramdons.com
Located in the east end of Windsor. Banquet facilities serving up to 200 guests. Bilingual Services
Concorde PLACE
elegant or casual services and ceremonies
.
unique all inclusive packages
New 2012 Decoration Selections unique backdrops
.
elegant centerpieces
.
chair covers and tableware
...may today be the beginning of a lifetime of joy and happiness together. Congratulations! 7515 Forest Glade Dr. Windsor www.placeconcorde.org
519-948-5545
RV, Golf & Marine Resort , RP’s Restaurant & Banquet Hall
981 County Rd 2, Belle River 519-728-2361 or 1-800-563-5940 info@rochesterplace.com www.rochesterplace.com
Let the friendly staff at Pelee Days Inn make your wedding planning stress free! ceremony . reception . fine cuisine . accommodations
The
Perfect
Location
When choosing your venue, make sure to visit the location before making a selection. Below are questions that should be asked before deciding: 1 Is the location available for your specific date and time? 2 How many guests does the space accommodate for a cocktail party or a seated dinner reception? 3 What services and equipment are included in the package (ie. DJ, chairs, tables, etc) ? 4 Is there a private room available for the bridal party? 5 Is there a planner to help with the venue arrangements? 6 Is there a policy manual we can review regarding restrictions on decor, noise level, etc? 7 May we obtain references of people who have held their event at this location in the past year?
tip... our in-house event planner will assist you with everything from chair covers to choosing a local wine
Come for the experience, stay for the adventure! 566 Bevel Line Road, Leamington 519-326-8646 Ext. 5401 www.peleedaysinn.com
Enquire as to what other activities your venue will be having that day. I know of one wedding where the parking facilities appeared to be more than ample, however, the venue was also hosting another large event and parking was at a premium. In other words there wasn’t any.
TORINO
Restaurant & Banquet Hall
Catering for on and off premises 50 ~ 400 people Excellent Food Free Parking Family Owned/Operated Solarium
Nicole & Scott ~ September 6, 2010 Photograph by: Neil Elias Photography
Personal S ervice Focusing
on
You !
12049 Tecumseh Rd., E, Windsor 519-735-2522 www.torinorestaurant.com
When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible. Nora Ephron
Valerie & Steve ~ July 24, 2010 Photograph by: Britton Images
Scottish Club of Windsor Full Service Facility for up to 200 Guests
Weddings, Showers, Parties, etc. Eileen & Daniel ~ October 10, 2010 Photograph by: Brad MacLaren
Large Wooden Dance Floor and Stage
1340 Tecumseh Rd., E. Windsor 519-254-9671 or 519-965-6428 Call or visit our web site for further information.
www.scottishclubofwindsor.webs.com
Caesars Windsor defines modern luxury in the midst of timeless elegance. Indulge in all of our spectacular amenities and experience first hand the Caesars brand known the world over. The largest casino resort in Southwestern Ontario and in all of Canada, our upscale destination provides an attractive alternative for any special occasion. Caesars Windsor offers over 100,000 square feet on two levels of convention space with seven conference rooms and a spectacular, fully divisible and flexible ballroom. True to the renowned Caesars brand, the 26,000 square foot Augustus Ballroom, one of the largest hotel ballrooms in Ontario, features subtle silver and gold tones against a neutral backdrop, creating a level of sophistication desired for any high-end event. Anchored by a multi-coloured carpet, this beautiful room offers the perfect setting for award galas, weddings, live entertainment, fundraising events and more. For more intimate occasions, the ballroom divides into 4 sections, each section measuring between 4,317 to 8,733 square feet.
Caesars Windsor
provided the perfect venue for Bridal Confidential’s Windsor fashion pages. These two photos courtesy of Britton Images Photography.
Personalized service from the Hotel and Convention Sales team provide years of experience and knowledge throughout your planning stages. From the beginning to the end, you can be confident you will receive the personal attention and superb service needed to create an unforgettable event. Caesars Windsor is the only resort that delivers an all-in-one experience with the excitement of entertainment and touches of luxury for both you and your guests to enjoy. Every month, our 5,000-seat Colosseum theatre is host to the world’s biggest and best entertainers. Celine Dion, Chris Rock, Jay Leno and Sarah McLachlan are just a few of the stars that have graced our stage. Thrill-seekers will love our non-stop gaming excitement spread over two-levels and 100,000 square feet. It’s your chance to win big on over 2,000 slot machines and 80 table games including Baccarat, Mini-Baccarat, Craps, Poker, Roulette and Blackjack. We’re proud to bring you the only four-diamond hotel in downtown Windsor. Two hotel towers featuring 758 beautifully designed guestrooms offer stunning riverfront and city views. Let the pampering begin; our guests enjoy a 10,000 sq ft fitness center, whirlpool, sauna, indoor pool, complimentary valet parking, full concierge service and around-the-clock room service. Rooms are equipped with safes, refrigerators, separate shower and baths, 32-inch flat panel televisions and high-speed internet access. Wheelchair accessible, as well as smoking and non-smoking guestrooms are available. Visit www.caesarswindsor.com today to learn more or call 1-800-991-7777. ‘Like’ us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CaesarsWindsor for exclusive offers, contests and more. p
Let Sunrise Bakery and Pastry sweeten your Special Day with our State of the Art Wedding Cakes, delicious Supreme Glasses and exquisite Fruit and Pastry arrangements.
“Happiness comes with Sunrise.�
Available in a variety of flavours
1395 Tecumseh Rd. Windsor
519-254-2203 sunrisebakery@bellnet.ca
www.sunrisebakeryandpastry.com
Amazing assortment of freshly-made pastries, cakes, cookies and more! 119 Lesperance Rd. Tecumseh 519-478-1819
w w w. r e n e e s f i n e c a k e s . c o m
Ordering Your Wedding Cake by Renée of Renée’s Fine Cakes What do you want for your wedding cake? What do you need? When do you order it? Think of the cake like any other detail of your wedding… the more organized you are, the more you can enjoy your wedding day and trust all the professionals you have hired to take care of all aspects of your wedding. When you are organized and order early then we can be more organized too! When you get engaged – you find the church and hall first… maybe start looking for the dress and the florist… your baker/pastry chef should be right up there in your list of priorities. The wedding season is primarily from May 1st to October 31st. We have limits the same as any other wedding business, we know our limitations and the number of cakes we can do comfortably on each weekend. Even if you just call us to make an appointment and come in and get estimates/prices/ideas and look at our amazing collection of pictures of all our work – a small deposit can hold the date and save you a place in our schedule. Then you may take your time looking at magazines or Google-ing cake pictures on the internet for ideas. Personally, I focus on one week at a time during wedding season – I don’t need all the details until closer to your wedding. But for your peace of mind – please come in as soon as possible, even if it is 6 months or a year prior to your date. We can finalize cake choices or colours closer to the wedding. Needs… One of the first questions I always ask is “What is the job of your wedding cake?” Do you want/need to feed ALL of your guests with the cake? Is there a dessert with the menu? Do you have a dessert table? MOST brides just need a cake for pictures and to feed SOME people but not all. Please, think of any wedding you have ever been to!! How many times have you ever eaten the cake? Or even seen the cake? You generally NEVER need cake for everyone at your reception! Unless you absolutely know that you want it served as the actual plated dessert – to be cut and served to ALL guests.
Be sure to ask your reception hall organizer if they have a cakecutting fee – this may be so high that you might want to go with cupcakes (self-serve) instead! You have many options and choices for dessert for your guests and you may not know the answer until much closer to the wedding date. Will your family bake for your dessert table, or will your budget allow for a pastry table? Will you will choose ice cream with the meal, or maybe a platter of pastry on each table? Then there is the extravagant dessert buffet that definitely adds to the WOWfactor, but so much leftover pastry can be un-necessary. What do you want? ...What do you need? …What can you afford? Contact local bakeries and get an idea of the cost of what you are asking for. A cake in Toronto and California can be $3000, but in Essex County it may be $500. Once you choose the outside detail – you still have more decisions!! The inside cake choices and filling choices. Vanilla, chocolate, carrot cake, red velvet cake? Chocolate mousse or raspberry filling? The outside icing choice is usually fondant nowadays - it is much more stable and safe in the heat of the summer months. Also you can be much more creative with the detail. There is always buttercream under the fondant to join it to the cake. Buttercream tastes better, sure! – but the style and detail is not as perfect as fondant cakes. A good pastry chef should be rolling it thin so the guests enjoy the cake, not just a mouthful. Also important: please trust a real baker or professional pastry chef – there are so many new decorators doing this from home, not in an approved kitchen by the Board of Health and without the many years experience or back-up staff to promise you safe delivery of your wedding cake. In short wants, needs, and budget will help you plan your dream wedding cake from a certified baker/pastry chef!! Thank you ~ Renee Pratt
always in style To add a touch of formality and elegance to your wedding - wear gloves. No other part of your attire adds such a strong statement. If your gown has sleeves anywhere above the elbow, gloves may be for you. While there are no rules about which gloves you should wear, it is best to let sleeve length determine your choice.
Britton Images Photography
Gennie & Ryan ~ August 21, 2010 Photograph by: Jayme Morrison Photography
This easy rule will help you; the more arm your gown shows, the longer the glove. opera gloves are long, extend the full length of the arm, and are perfect with sleeveless gowns.
1476 Tecumseh Road, East Windsor 519-258-1118 www.bridalcouture.ca
Angela & Brian ~ May 1, 2010 Photograph by: Chalet Studio Photography
s ’ y d e enn
Here Comes the Bride b r i d a l
elbow gloves come to the elbow, and like the ‘opera glove’ are also best worn with sleeveless or short sleeved gowns. continued next page
b o u t i q u e
Making dreams come true since 1986.
One look One smile One touch One embrace One kiss One love Two people Two minds Two souls Two destinies One road One journey One ending Together Melissa Higgins
purchase with us... no alteration charge 33 TALBOT ST. E., LEAMINGTON 519.326.4121
w w w. h e r e c o m e s t h e b r i d e s . c a
K
CLEANERS & Gown Preservaton
Treasure it for the next generation! 37 Talbot St. E, Leamington 519-326-3645
short gloves cover the hands to the wrist. Feminine and charming, short gloves are perfect with a short sleeved gown. A long sleeved gown is best worn without gloves.
Lady Di’s
consignment bridal
d r e s s m a k i n g & a lt e r at i o n s
If you can’t find gloves that are a perfect match for your gown, go for gloves that are a little lighter so your gloves won’t look dirty. When putting on your gloves, work your hand in, and then slide the glove up your arm. Don’t pull them from the top. An over zealous tug could tear the glove.
Jessica & David ~ October 10, 2010 Photograph by: Sarah Tellerd Photography
As seen on “Rich Bride Poor Bride”
Practice taking them off before the wedding. Removing gloves can be a little trickier than you think. Some materials slide more easily than others, and with a little practice you will get a ‘feel’ for them. Always make sure your hands are perfectly clean before handling your gloves. As the ‘exchanging of the rings’ approaches, hand your gloves and your bouquet to your maid of honour and put them on again after the ceremony. Wear your gloves for entering and leaving the ceremony and for posed photos. For the receiving line it’s your choice. If you wish, you can remove only your right glove. Keep in mind that shaking hands can leave stains. Don’t wear them during your wedding dinner or when cutting your cake and never when touching up your makeup (obvious reasons) or hair (hair spray can stick to gloves). Look for gloves that complement your gown, not overwhelm it. p
I dreamed of a wedding of elaborate elegance, a church filled with family and friends. I asked him what kind of a wedding he wished for, he said one that would make me his wife. Author Unknown
Gowns at a fraction of the original cost. Lindsay & Brett ~ October 16, 2010 Photograph by: Grin Villa Weddings
4660 Tecumseh Road E. 519-948-6877 www.ladydiconsignment.com
Now you can choose your gown and wedding decor under one roof.
Daniela’s Bridal Boutique Is happy to announce that
is now located inside Daniela’s Bridal Boutique Working as a team we will make you wedding planning easier.
Daniela’s Bridal Boutique 519-972-3313 ~ Dazzling Designs 519-972-0542 3337 Walker Rd. Suite 100 Windsor
to Niagara-on-the-Lake. There are intimate spots from a hot hotel in Miami, Florida to a breathtaking hotel in Quebec City.
Known for our huge selection.
5970 Tecumseh Rd East Windsor 519-974-3681 Mon. Tues. & Fri. 10 – 6, Wed. & Thur. 1 0 – 9, Sat. 9 – 5
Gown by: Mori Lee
517 York Street London 519-433-2865 1780 King Street East Kitchener 519-745-8545
www.sophiesgownshoppe.com
Wedding
2011
Trends
In any year that has two famous people tying the knot, two things are for certain. First, media coverage will be non-stop. Second, predicting wedding trends is next to impossible. This year we saw one of the most celebrated weddings of our time – The Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton back in April. Coming into the year we expected Kate’s wedding dress to be “THE” wedding dress of 2011 and we expected FORMAL WEAR Kate’s bridesmaids dresses to be “THE” bridesmaids dresses of 2011 and every other aspect to mirror the Royal Wedding. However, as the year progressed we have noticed some trends that didn’t show up in our crystal balls at the start of the year. We have gathered our five favorite trends that we never saw coming for 2011 and here they are: we carry the ordinary... but we specialize in the
ext raordinary
5400 Tecumseh Rd. E Windsor 519-944-1227 Over 300 locations across Canada 1-877-434-4184
www.collinsformalwear.com
You could also find a cozy lodge from Juneau, Alaska to Jasper National Park, Alberta. All offer a memorable honeymoon without the wasted days of jet leg, giving you extra time for… honeymoon stuff. Going Retro What’s old is new. We’re seeing a retroinspired theme this year. Some examples include: vintage wedding dresses with cap sleeves, vintage photography and outdoor rustic weddings surrounded by nature and antiques. Eco-Friendly WeddingS As we are now learning the earth needs a little help from us whenever we can give it and weddings are no exception. Ideas include: second-hand and vintage wedding dresses, using recycled paper for invitations, food from local farms and providers and by giving charitable donations to eco-friendly charities rather than the traditional wedding favours. Photo Booths Setting up a photo area at the reception allows for some unique pictures. The photo area can have different backgrounds and props to create interesting and fun photo opportunities. p
U.S. & Canadian Honeymoons This year newlyweds show that you don’t have to fly half way across the world to have a romantic and meaningful honeymoon. There are many beautiful honeymoon spots right here in North America. There are romantic winery locations from Sonoma County, California
Maryia & Asanka ~ May 21, 2011 Photograph by: Gabriel Photography
Shop Where the Professionals Shop
FOOD EQUIPMENT.com
Bridal & Gift Registry
largest selection of
Amy & Adam ~ May 11, 2010 Photograph by: Brandon Scott Photography
knives, glassware cookware, bakeware, wine accessories peppermills, kitchen gadgets and much more!
great ideas for party favours Tiffany & James ~ June 5, 2010 Photograph by: trevorboothphotography.ca
Our Gift to you...$25 *a $25 gift card upon registry
2150 Ambassador Dr. 519-969-1919 williamsfoodequipment.com The bridal veil dates back to ancient Rome and is believed to be the oldest wedding tradition. Noelle & Miguel ~ August 13, 2010 Photograph by: Brandon Scott Photography
Love one another and you will be happy. It’s as simple and as difficult as that. Michael Leunig
C
Trousseau is from the French word ‘trousse’ which means bundle, and originally referred to the bundle of clothing and possessions that a bride took to her new home.
armen’s atering
“Catering With a Flair”
Outdoor Wedding Specialist On-site Barbecues Canadian & Italian Cuisine 114 talbot st., e. leamington
519-326-5081
www.carmenscatering.ca
Soirée Event Extraordinaire is an upscale, professional, full service Event Management, Wedding Co-ordinating and Décor and Prop Rental Company. Soiree offers the discerning clientele innovative design concepts and décor from the traditional sophistication of elegance and contemporary style. Specialty Priced Packages 1508 Walker Road Windsor
519-988-1414
rosemary@soireeevents.com
Find us on Facebook at http://on.fb.me/SoireeEvents
www.soireeevents.com
Teresa & Joe ~ July 10, 2010 Photograph by: Chalet Studio Photography
Allana & Jason~ August 7, 2010 Photograph by: Britton Images
Top Quality Professionals ~ Free Consultations 519-948-4152 www.donsdj.com
Very
special needs
Including your pet in your wedding is becoming very popular and if you are planning to include your little darling... think it through first. Whether our pets have scales, hooves, feathers or fur, they are an important part of our lives. Many people view them as true members of the family and it has become more common to include pets in wedding ceremonies; however, there are a few things to consider before you decide whether or not to include your pet.
Daniela & Joe ~ October 10, 2010 Photograph by: Jayme Morrison Photography
Due to the excitement of a wedding the pet’s disposition must be evaluated. With many people, music and noise it is wise to know how your pet will react. Will he/she be scared or happy with the attention? Pets with mellow personalities do best and it would be unwise to force a timid or hyper pet to participate. Dogs are the best choice to be part of the ceremony and have been the ring bearer, best man and maid of honour; some have even given the bride away. If you are including your pet, your venue should be a pet friendly location. Make sure there is someone who can take care of your pet while you are busy with your guests. Remember animals can be unpredictable, so you must be ready to accept their behavior in case something goes wrong.
JoseĂŠ & Scott ~ July 31, 2010 Photograph by: Photography by JMH
beautiful flowers at a beautiful price
Did you know? Some flowers cannot be worn against the skin, or that some will last much longer than others?
Let our talented designers help to make your decisions simple. Wedding Consultations - By Appointment
94 Oak St., West, Leamington 519-326-9322 www.oakfarms.ca
Mon. to Fri. 8 - 5, Sat. 8 - 4:30 Sun. 10 - 3
Before making any floral decisions, talk with your florist and get some expert advice, especially if you want to wear them in your hair. If your bouquet should become limp due to time or heat, you can put it aside, but if the flowers in your hair become limp, you may be stuck for the duration.
easily misplaced, easily forgotten Corsage pins are small in size but huge in importance. Add them to your check list immediately. Put two pins for each corsage in a clear bag, and if possible put the bag in with the individual corsages. Have a few extra pins on hand just in case some are lost. Putting the pins directly into the corsage may seem like the perfect place to keep them, however, since this can promote wilting it’s not something that is recommended.
Brooke & AndrĂŠ ~ August 14, 2010 Photograph by: Photography by JMH
New Designs Flowers and Gifts
Dana & Ross ~ June 5, 2010 Photograph by: John Lyons Weddings
19 Main St., Kingsville 519-733-2365 www.newdesigns.ca newdesigns@bellnet.ca
Tawney & Ryan ~ October 2, 2010 Photograph by: John Lyons Weddings
Everyone wants to fall in love... why? Because that experience makes us feel completely alive. Where every sense is heightened, every emotion is magnified, our everyday reality is shattered and we are flying into the heavens. It may only last a moment, an hour, an afternoon. But that doesn’t diminish its value. Because we are left with memories that we treasure for the rest of our lives. Author Unknown
Tying shoes to the car ... one tradition two theories.
Some sources say that during the Tudor period in England, guests threw shoes at the couple’s carriage and if they hit it good luck would follow. The more hits the better the luck. Through time, the shoes were tied to the back to ensure that the luck went with them. Others claim that the noise made by the shoes frightened the evil spirits that may be lurking nearby. Somewhere along the way cans replaced the shoes.
Bloom Boutique
flowers
& gifts
There’s always something new in bloom. 1661 Front Rd., Unit 3, LaSalle
519-734-0692
www.bloomboutique.ca
00717647
Office: 519-966-0444
Direct: 519-818-4623 Preferred Realty Ltd., Brokerage 3065 Dougall Ave. Windsor
each office independently owned and operated
Fax: 519-250-4145
maria@mariaphilpott com www.mariaphilpott.com
Maria Philpott ASA Sales Representative
Experience isn’t Expensive... It’s PRICELESS !!
Advice to first-time Buyers... Discuss the things that are important to both of you - make a list of the things you both want (or need) in a home. If one of you loves to cook and the other likes to build things - you may want to look for a home with a large kitchen and a garage. Keep in mind that in a few years your lives and circumstances may (AND PROBABLY WILL) change. Will you be planning a family? If so, what kind of schools will you want to send your children to? Make a plan. How many years do you think you will be living in this home? Again, keep in mind that circumstances may change. Jobs may change, will you be earning more money? Will one of you be staying home to raise the children? Do you have student loans to pay off? Will you be needing another vehicle? Do a budget. Make sure you take into account all of your financial obligations, including the ones that crop up here - and - there. Make sure you pay yourself first.
1
If you are moving or relocating to/from Windsor-Essex County, choose a realtor and a company with the knowledge, experience and tools to help you make your move the right one!
Accredited Senior’s Agent Full-time Real Estate Sales Sales Representative (19 years) Over 40 years of combined legal/construction Real Estate experience. Member of Re/Max International Relocation System. Certified Relocation Specialist (Nationwide) REMEMBER... one of the most important decisions you will make when buying or selling a house is choosing the right Realtor.
st place winners
Windsor/Essex
wedding day Emilynne & Thomas Muldoon ~ September 25, 2010
Emilynne appears on our cover and the couple won a trip for two sponsored by Transat Holidays & Marlin Travel Sarnia Read Emilynne’s story on page 146
Photographs courtesy of Eryn.Shea.Photography
did you know?
Lyndsay & Jeff ~ June 26, 2010 Photograph by: Eryn.Shea.Photography
Marybeth & Mark ~ May 15, 2010 Photograph by: Trendy Photos
FORMAL WEAR
When Sarah Ferguson became the Duchess of York, she entered the cathedral wearing a garland of flowers as her head piece. After the ceremony the garland was removed to reveal a tiara, signifying her new royal status. After an eight year long engagement, Elvis gave Priscilla Ann Wagner a 3.5 carat rock surrounded by 21 smaller diamonds. They married on May 1, 1967 at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas.
2
we carry the ordinary... but we specialize in the
ext raordinary
5400 Tecumseh Rd. E Windsor 519-944-1227 Over 300 locations across Canada 1-877-434-4184
www.collinsformalwear.com
nd place winners
Windsor/Essex
wedding day
Dawn & Mike Fenton ~ October 9, 2010
Dawn & Mike won dinner for two at Mezzo Ristorante and an overnight stay for two at Windsor Inn On The River.
Photographs courtesy of Laura St. John of Precious Memories Photography
Looking Good is All About Attitude!
salon
2007
2006
2008
Urban Selection Plaza 5975 Malden Rd., LaSalle 519-967-1666 2009
2010
2011
Salon Attitude is Bridal Confidential’s cover hair stylist ~
colour line: Voilà product lines:
Chalet Studio Photography
AG, ABBA, IC, American Crew
Wedding Packages Available Britton Images Photography
Meghan & Matthew ~ July 31, 2010 Photograph by: Livetech Photo.Video
13126 Tecumseh Road E. Unit 4 519-735-5344
Kelly & Bob ~ June 12, 2010 Photograph by: Kerrie Bray
body hair nails skin makeup
Beautiful Images
Aesthetics & Hair Day Spa
Anna Grandi- Pase
Aestetician/Owner
1040 Erie St. E . 519-254-9929 . beautifulimages.yp.ca Beautiful Images is the Makeup Artist for our Windsor cover draw winner, Emilynne - Photograph by Chalet Studio
custom invitations
~
chair cover rentals
free consultation
www. finishingtouchesonline.ca
519-818-6615 chaircovers@hotmail.com
Shower Invitations If someone is invited to your shower, they must be invited to your wedding. The exception to this rule is the workplace shower. Since attending a shower necessitates a gift, it is inappropriate to invite a person to more than one shower.
Tamaira & Daniel ~ October 30, 2010 Photograph by: Gen-X Photography
invitation tips Mail all of your invitations at the same time. People will talk and if Aunt Sally got one but Cousin Betty didn’t, they may think they are not going to be invited. When Cousin Betty finally does receive hers, she will think you had forgotten about her and sent the invitation when you finally remembered.
Lauren & Dan ~ June 5, 2010 Photograph by: Brandon Scott Photography
It’s a good idea to number your invitations and keep a corresponding list of who got which number. This will give you a quick and easy check list of who has or has not responded. When it comes to people that you know will not be able to attend, it is best not to send them an invitation. Instead, send a wedding announcement. An invitation implies the giving of a gift, but an announcement does not. Lily & Dean ~ March 12, 2010 Photograph by: Livetech Photo.Video
thank you cards
Terra & Gerry ~ June 11, 2011 Photograph by: Gabriel Photography
E-mail and texting have become the standard method of communication, so are thank you cards really necessary? YES! Having gone shopping for a gift and attending a wedding, I would be insulted to receive a ‘thank you’ by e-mail. It implies that you just don’t care enough to take the time to write a note and mail a card. Electronic thank you’s? Don’t even consider it. A guest will expect to receive a thank you card within two to three weeks after the wedding. If you are taking an extended honeymoon, your thank you cards should be the first thing you take care of when you get back.
Shauna & Joe ~ October 9, 2010 Photograph by: Grin Villa Weddings
At a friend’s wedding, I deposited a gift of cash into a gift container. When I didn’t receive a thank you card from them for over two months, I began to wonder if the couple
Christine & James ~ October 16, 2010 Photograph by: Sooter’s Photography
Invitations & Gifts by Elisa 25 or 30% off your entire invitation & accessories catalogue order. Call for an appointment to view my entire selection of favours & invitations.
519-974-5940 elisad@mycybernet.net www.giftsbyelisa.theaspenshops.com www.giftsbyelisa.weddingstar.com had ever received my gift. Perhaps it had been misplaced or worse even stolen. I could not be sure the couple had received the gift and may think that I didn’t give one. No thank you card can leave your guests in a very awkward position. Did you get their gift? Should they ask? Get those cards out ASAP!
Custom - Handmade Cards and Invitations
25 Main St. West Unit 1, Kingsville 519-796-1327 mjmb@cogeco.ca www.madiave.com Located inside Papercraft Café ~ Owner Jennifer Binder
Katie & Michael ~ August 7, 2010 Photograph by: Livetech Photo.Video
Toget her Forever
Sonia & Steven ~ August 21, 2010 Photograph by: Focal Point Photography
the guys are catching on Over recent years men have shown much more interest in choosing their wedding bands. In the past it was not really a ‘guy thing’ to choose a ring and they often left it up to the bride. All the ring had to do was fit. For the future grooms who are man enough to choose their own rings, here are some tips: Is the ring comfortable? Does the ring fit your lifestyle? Does it reflect your personality? Which ring is most durable? Do you want matching rings?
25 Amy Croft Dr. Unit 14A (EC Row & Manning) Lakeshore 519-735-9002
...and last but not least: Do you want gemstones? More and more men are going with the trend of having stones in their wedding bands. Diamonds are a man’s best friend too.
Love
unconditional by Jenn Belawetz
It was May 2006, when a gorgeous guy named Mike started coming into the bank I worked at in Essex, Ontario. Now he did more banking than your average 20-something guy, coming in upwards of three to four times per week. But I sure wasn’t complaining! After weeks and weeks had gone by with Mike not asking me out, I finally mustered up the courage to write out my number on a piece of paper and hand it to him when he was doing a transaction at the ATM. I said, “Use it...if you want!” and then quickly exited the bank on my lunch break, heading towards where I THOUGHT I parked my car. The giddiness wore off a bit, and I remembered that I had parked behind the bank and made my way there. Unfortunately, Mike had also parked there and was making his way back to his OWN car at the very same time! With an awkward wave I jumped into my car and headed out to lunch. One or two days later, I got a call from Mike asking me if I wanted to go out, and of course I said Yes! We started officially dating June 6th, 2006.
Jenn & Mike ~ April 16, 2011
Photographs by Britton Images
At that point my memory unfortunately turns on long enough for me to remember looking down at my feet, realizing they were still there and finally coming to the understanding that I could no longer feel or move them anymore. From there I went into hysterics, and my memory fades back out. The paramedics came and put me on a backboard and waited for the air ambulance to bring me to the hospital in London, Ontario. All the while, Mike was by my side. From the arrival at London Hospital I was put through two surgeries, one to repair my spinal column and one to make sure I had no other internal injuries. Again, Mike never left my side. He was in the room with me and my parents when I got the horrible news. I would never walk again; I had suffered a spinal cord injury that crushed my nerves in my spine.
Our story moves on two years down the road. Everything was going great. Mike and I got along fabulously and I couldn’t imagine how I was so lucky to have found this guy before any other girl snatched him up! But unbeknownst to Mike and I, things in our happy, care-free lives were about to take a turn for the worse. It was a beautiful sunny Sunday. A group of Mike’s friends wanted to go to the beach in Grand Bend, Ontario. We all piled into a friend’s minivan and started heading Many weeks and months went by. I was transferred from the London towards what we thought was going to be a fantastic day of fun in the Hospital to Parkwood, an inpatient facility that dealt with rehabilitation of spinal cord injuries. Mike spent nights sleeping in my hospital room sand. About an hour into the trip life suddenly changed forever... beside me, in his car when he couldn’t stay in my room and eventually in an We were coming around a bend when an oncoming car crossed over into RV that my parents brought down to London. He NEVER left my side. He our lane hitting the van we were travelling in head on. This put our minivan was truly my saving grace. From there I was discharged and came back into a few spins, then into a couple of rolls, ultimately ending up on its side home to start living my life in a wheelchair. I started at the Detroit Medical in a ditch. Everyone was able to get out of the van, except for me. Center’s Rehab Institute of Michigan in October 2008. There I learned I don’t remember much of the accident at all, and for that I am truly how to crawl, to strengthen my existing muscles in my core and eventually grateful. It’s not something I ever hope to recall. I was told that I thought learned to walk in braces. All the while, Mike was encouraging me to keep going strong, as it was truly a tough few years to adjust to this new life. my feet were caught under something and that is why I thought I couldn’t get myself out of the On our 4th anniversary, Mike and I went out for dinner like we normally van. So Mike and a do. But he was quite insistent on going for a walk down on the riverfront friend undid my seat in Windsor. So I agreed! We were about half way down the waterfront belt and carefully when he turned to me and said, “Do you want your gift yet?” I said sure! lifted me out of the So he got down on one knee and proposed! Obviously I said Yes!!! van. It’s important to note here that Mike is a trained Paramedic and knew exactly what to do in this situation. He held me on the From there was the huge question... How was I going to get down the ground and waited aisle? How was I going to try dresses on? So on and so forth. So many for the ambulances questions with answers I never saw three years before. Mike had a to come. That is when suggestion that ended up working out. He said, “Why can’t you walk he felt down my spine down the aisle and instead of walking with a walker, use your brother and the fears he had and your dad as your crutches?” First I thought he was crazy, I had never in his initial assessment tried something like that. Then I thought, “OK!” So I brought it up at of the situation were physio and we tried it and it was a success! I used a borrowed wedding slowly coming true. He dress to practice in walking at physio with my two trainers and as the felt a large bulge at day neared, I practiced with my dad. Now I was getting good at that the base of my spine... so my trainers raised the bar for me and said, “Why not try dancing as continued 186 I had broken my spine. well?” So we tried it, and it worked!
How was I going to get down the aisle?
l a d i e s fa s h i o n s It all starts with a vision, image put to paper and ends with a final stitch that captures first impressions and entices second, third... glances. The perfection of design is the expression of a vision that creates trends and brings fabrics to life! This fall, discover the newest collection of highly sought after animal prints, distinguished by their innovative designs and fabrications. Beautiful and novel, it is a constant evolution of style. Designers have given a lot of attention to detail with the latest fabrics - suede, leather, faux fur trims, frills, ruffles and so much more; creating the hottest new trends! Tunics, leggings, draped vests, jackets and belted tops are all the rage! It’s a very versatile range of styles that blend luxury and comfort. Vibrant royal, jade and red jewel tones set the scene. As golds, silver and bronze melt into fascinating fabrics. However, the little black dress is always #1, creating a timeless elegance for the Holidays.
Day or night, live life to the fullest, in style!! by Lori at Our Place Ladies Fashions
where fit and fashion come together!
style
. quality . selection
f
personal service
we carry sizes 6 to 20, regular and petite, casual to elegant
262 Dalhousie St. Amherstburg 519-736-3368
Wedding Day Transportation For Your Entire Wedding Party
Unconditional Love, continued from page 184
The big day came and I had practiced so hard to achieve my goals that I was working towards for so many months. The doors opened and everyone stood up, and I was standing there too, with my dad and my brother by my side. They walked me towards Mike and our ceremony began. That day I married my best friend, the person who had already stood beside me through thick and thin and I now had the chance to STAND beside him! Our reception was absolutely fantastic. We walked in when we were introduced and went straight to our first dance. It was the best dancing we had ever done up to that date!
/C.A. Bailey Ltd. 14 Passenger Executive Limo Coach 24 Passenger Micro Deluxe Coach ~ 33 Passenger Deluxe Coach The Perfect Shuttle Service For Your Guests 10 Seacliff Dr. E., Leamington 519-326-2607 www.southwaybuses.com We have the greatest pre-nuptial agreement in the world. It’s called love. Gene Perret
Windsor’s #1 Limousine Service
Wedding Specialists
accommodating 2-30 passengers 519-254-0001 www.royallimousinesofwindsor.com
So now I am married to someone I consider to be the best man in the entire world. I know that despite my injury, despite all the hurdles that we will face in our lives, that we will face them together. That whatever dream I dream up, Mike will be there by my side helping me to achieve it, cheering me on when I do! p
“In Passionate Pursuit of the Perfect Party” Essex County’s Largest Limo Service 519-250-8099 Cell: 519-796-8106 www.limosbymrjs.com
Prestige Limousine “arrive with prestige”
pre stigel i mo u s i n e. b i z 1-888-252-4517 prestigeheritagelimo@hotmail.com
Writing your vows One of the things that comes under the ‘you choose’ heading is whether or not to write your own vows. Your personal statement of love and commitment is a beautiful moment, but I have been at weddings where the bride became too emotional to continue, or the groom was so uncomfortable he couldn’t get the words right. My point is, think it through. Will you be able to remain calm? Is your fiancé completely on board? If you will be speaking your vows, here are a few thoughts to guide you.
Melanie & Aaron ~ August 21, 2010 Photograph by: Livetech Photo.Video
Your life before you met. Your first meeting. What you have taught each other. How falling in love changed your outlook on life. Special moments you have shared. How you felt when he asked you to be his wife. Sharing vows is something that can never be duplicated and is uniquely yours.
G oing
G reat L engths Please Y ou
to
to
Elaine & Patrick ~ September 4, 2010 Photograph by: trevorboothphotography.ca
Apache Blessing
Voted Southwestern Ontario’s Best Limousine Service
Now you will feel no rain, For each of you will be shelter to the other. Now you will feel no cold, For each of you will be warmth to the other. Now there is no loneliness, For each of you will be companion to the other. Now you are two bodies, But there is only one life before you.
46623 Talbot Line (between St. Thomas and Alymer) 800-858-2664 www.auniversal.com
Go now to your dwelling place, To enter into the days of your togetherness. And may your days be Good and long upon the earth.
Stretch your imagination with us!
GRANDEURlimousine Joanna & Steve ~ September 18, 2010 Photograph by: Grin Villa Weddings
southwestern
ontario’s only
40 passenger
limousine coach
519-453-7307 1-877-246-2844 www.grandeurlimousine.com
Cinday & Ken ~ August 14, 2010 Photograph by: Neil Elias Photography
voted best limousine service in southwestern ontario
a green hint That fabulous wedding dinner can be made with ingredients that are entirely local. Exotic foods tend to come from exotic places, and while they may sound wonderful, a dessert made with local
apples will taste just as good. Exotic flowers tend to come under the same heading. Your florist can tell you what flowers are in season and grown locally.
Luxury Coaches
state of the art vehicles to accommodate your entire wedding party.
Serving Windsor/Essex
519-776-4358 1-800-668-1974
jimb@badderbus.com
www.badderbus.com limousines 189
Wedding
Design Tips
Use the venue setting to inspire your design. In other words, work with the decor that already exists in the room.
Kata & Chris ~ October 23, 2010 Photograph by: Livetech Photo.Video
Limit the number of bold colours by using various shades of the same colours. Gather photos that inspire you such as cake designs, bridal dresses, and flowers. Place them together and determine if they flow well together. Use the lighting to capture the mood that fits well with your wedding design.
Renata & Paul ~ July 2, 2010 Photograph by: John Lyons Weddings
Keep it simple.
Fidelity
Man and woman are like the earth, that brings forth flowers in summer, and love, but underneath is rock. Older than flowers, older than ferns, older than foraminiferae, older than plasm altogether is the soul underneath. And when, throughout all the wild chaos of love slowly a gem forms, in the ancient, once-more-molten rocks of two human hearts, two ancient rocks, a man’s heart and a woman’s, that is the crystal of peace, the slow hard jewel of trust, the sapphire of fidelity. The gem of mutual peace emerging from the wild chaos of love.
Daleda & Alan ~ June 27, 2010 Photograph by: Neil Elias Photography
D.H. Lawrence
A white aisle runner signifies the pathway to happiness and the rose petals represent a plentiful future. Nicole & Ziad ~ February 20, 2010 Photograph by: Britton Images
Wedding Day Glow Tips
Makeup Tips Provided By: Glow Makeup Studio Glow Makeup Studio is a professional makeup artist team. Our goal is to give you a custom look that will make your wedding unforgettable. We only use prestige products that are long lasting, photo ready and are made to give you a flawless finish. The following are important tips that can help you achieve a beautiful look. Tip #1 A good way to decide what makeup salon is best suited for you is to have a trial a few weeks before the ceremony. A trial is not only a time where you are able to voice your opinions, but it is also a chance for you to see exactly how your makeup will look the day of the wedding. We always appreciate when a client has an idea of what their makeup should look like and the best way to communicate that is by bringing in photographs from magazines. This will give the artist an understanding of what your expectations are. Trials aren’t free but they should cost less than the makeup that’s done on the day of the wedding. Tip #2 Remember, less is more this season! The makeup that you do use should be suitable for flash photography. Stick with foundations that have a yellow undertone, as these will create a healthy appearance. The lights in the reception hall are unforgiving and harsh, so it is helpful to find a good bronzing powder to warm up your skin tone. To get that sun kissed look, always apply bronzing powder with a natural bristle brush. Only use the colour on the areas of the face that the sun naturally warms. For normal to dark skin tones, bronzer should be applied to forehead, the high curve of your cheeks and the bridge of your nose. If you're naturally pale you should apply a very light dusting over your neck and chest for a more even tone.
Tip #4 To make your lips the center of attention, leave your eyes simple. A deep crimson red or a sultry berry colour always looks elegant and sexy. If you choose to make your eyes stand out by applying a smoky eye, you should keep your lips more demure by applying a nude lipstick with a nude gloss that will provide a wet mirror shine.
Samantha Clarke
Tip #5 To make your eyes pop, sometimes makeup artists will use false eyelashes. They come in individual as well as strip form. If you are a beginner stick to strip eyelashes as they are much easier to apply. They both come in a variety of colours, lengths and thicknesses. False eyelashes, when applied correctly, can last for up to two days. p
Tip #3 The purpose of applying blush is to give the impression that you’ve just jogged half a mile, with a natural glow spreading over the cheekbones. To choose the right blush it is best to try to match your cheek colour after a bit of exercise. Once you find the right shade it is important to apply it lightly and be very careful as to not overdue it. Blush should illuminate the skin with hints of soft shimmer along the cheek bones and at the temples. Remember the attention should be drawn to your eyes or lips, not your red cheekbones.
Favour Ideas Stained glass sun catchers Crystal candle holders and candles Address book with elegant pen Small boxes filled with sweets or nuts Napkin set with rings Flavoured coffee and mug Floral centerpieces Picture frame Photo album Decorative vase Bottle of wine Herb or spice tea Gourmet Popcorn ... and of course, chocolate
Give a Donation as a Wedding Gift Through your donations we provide cancer patients and their families a comfortable and compassionate hospital setting.
3200 Deziel Drive Unit 307 Windsor, ON N8W 5K8 519-944-5143 info@t2b.ca www.t2b.ca
When choosing favours Favours reflect the appreciation you have for your guests. Favours don’t have to be expensive, just thoughtful and if your budget is limited it is perfectly acceptable to give one gift per couple. If you have a favour that could be mistaken for decorations, such as candle holders, label them with a little ‘take me home’ tag. Far too often, favours are left behind because the guests did not know they were supposed to take them. Toonny & Jeff ~ July 17, 2010 Photograph by: Jayme Morrison Photography
An Album of your LIfe Not every guest at your wedding knows you. You may not know all of your groom’s family and friends, and some of your guests will bring people you have never met. Here is a chance to let them view your life and get to know you a little better. From childhood to present day, include all the pictures you love of both you and your fiancé. Display them in an album at your reception. Have your photos on the left and his on the right. Do the same for each stage of your lives.
Lisa & Paul ~ July 10, 2010 Photograph by: Picasso Photography
192 party favours
When we are not in love too much, we are not in love enough. Comte DeBussy-Rabutin
Jenn & Marty ~ July 16, 2010 Photograph by: Eryn.Shea.Photography
How about having an elegant and stylish wedding by combining your ceremony and reception together at a beautiful garden or waterside location? You can relax with wine or champagne and have your photos taken while your guests enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. When planning your day note the time of sunset and schedule a sunset photo shoot. Photographs taken at sunset have an appeal all of their own.
Zana & Sal ~ October 11, 2009 Photograph by: Gabriel Photography
Today’s brides are adding a relaxed style to their wedding photos. Shots of the ushers rushing down the street or the bride talking with the flowergirl. These types of photos are not posed but rather spur of the moment. Talk with your photographer and ask about including these types of photos to your collection. Photos of your guests celebrating or the ring bearer dancing with the flowergirl will convey the mood and feel of your wedding day.
Karissa & Luciano ~ October 23, 2010 Photograph by: Focal Point Photography
Misty & Marc ~ June 12, 2010 Photograph by: Photography by JMH
Stacey & Mike ~ October 9, 2010 Photograph by: Eryn.Shea.Photography
a beach wedding? Romantic, beautiful and possibly windy. If a beach wedding is your dream, here are a few things to consider. The gown will have to move well in an outdoor setting. A bulky gown would be difficult to manoeuvre when walking in sand. Even though you have the backup of a tent to protect you from wind, cool temperatures cannot be foreseen. For an outdoor wedding of any kind be sure to let your
guests know that they will be outdoors. An uncomfortable guest is an unhappy guest. They want to be dressed appropriately too. Shoes are another consideration for a beach or outdoor wedding. It is very difficult to walk in sand or grass with high heeled shoes - they will sink into the sand and mud making your movements awkward and very unattractive.
Successful Events Begin With Us! Weddings . Showers . Parties . and More w w w. festiv a ltent .c om
Major Event Specialists Corunna 618 St. Clair Parkway 519-862-4010 1-800-873-3977 Fax: 519-862-4012 sarnia@festivaltent.com
wide variety of tent sizes dance floors & accessories food service equipment party games & supplies
tables, chairs, china & linens wedding accessories fun inflatables portable toilets (windsor only)
Windsor 4595 County Rd. 46 (1 M east of Walker Rd) R.R. #3 Maidstone, ON 519-737-9200 info@festivaltent.com
your wedding day manicure From the signing of the license to guests looking at your rings, your hands will be as important as your gown and hairstyle. Your guests will all want to see your rings and your hands will be in the spotlight. Visit your manicurist about two months before the wedding and begin a hand/nail care program.
Facials Make-up Manicures Pedicures Full Body Massage Laser Hair Removal For Your Entire Wedding Party 4114 Walker Road, Unit #3
For your wedding day manicure, avoid strong colours and stay with clear or soft pastels otherwise your guests will remember your brightly coloured nails and not your rings. Purchase a bottle of the polish and have it handy throughout your wedding day. A small chip can easily happen and you will be prepared for touch ups.
E-mail: info@harmonydayspa.ca www.harmonydayspa.ca
Tip: If you will be wearing shoes that show your toes, use the same coloured polish for both.
Tel: 519-966-2524
Mon: 9-4, Tues., Wed. & Thurs. 9-9,Fri. 9-6, Sat. 8-3 Sun. Closed
questions to ask your prospect caterer • Given the style, time, and date of my wedding, what are some menu items that you suggest? What would the cost per person be?
• Do you have any particular style of food or menu items that you
specialize in? • Could we provide a sentimental family recipe to include in the menu? • How many other catering appointments will your company handle that same weekend/day/hour? • Are you licensed? (this means that they have met health department standards and have liability insurance). Do you have a liquor license? • How does the cost per person of a buffet compare to a sit-down dinner? • Does that cost per person just cover the food, or are charges such as staff, rentals, and linens included? • What service costs are included and what costs are additional? Are set-up and clean-up included? Are gratuities included? • Do you provide linens, glasses, plates, silverware, tables, chairs, serving pieces, and decorative flowers for trays? Would it cost less if I handled any or all of that myself? • What colour and style of linens, glasses, plates, and accessories do you have available? • Will you be the person personally handling my wedding on my wedding day? If not, what is the name of the person who will, and when can I meet him/her? • How much time will you need for set-up and clean-up? • Can you provide a wedding cake? If we provide them, do you charge a cake cutting and serving fee? • Do you charge for beverage service?
by Filip Rocca, Mezzo Ristorante
• If we want to provide our own wine, champagne, and liquor, do you charge a corkage fee?
• Will you provide food for the photographer, videographer, musicians, and other "day-of" vendors? If so, is there an extra charge?
• Will you provide special meals for any children who attend, and is
there a discounted charge for them? • What deposit do you require to hold the date, and when will the rest of the money be due? • Can we speak to former clients for referrals? We here at Mezzo Restaurant and Lounge work very hard to bring the Mezzo experience to you when catering events. Our food is always fresh and ingredients top notch or we wouldn’t have the reputation of having Windsor’s finest restaurant located in Via Italia. We have catered events for birthday parties, weddings, baptisms, day cares, corporate functions and even your casual backyard BBQ. When catering, our attention to detail is of utmost importance and we work with our clients to customize a menu to suite their needs and budget. Once our meeting is done and the menu has been set we offer a complimentary tasting of the items chosen, to ensure no surprises on the day of the catering. We find this way the customers know what exactly to expect and that their mind will be at ease the day of the special event. Guests we have served include George Clooney, Chris Noth, The Sopranos and many more! If you would like to know about us here at Mezzo you can visit our website at www.mezzo.ca or call me at 519-252-4055 to discuss your special occasion details. Thank You... Filip p
“be the most beautiful bride” by Fresh Medical Spa
The single most important thing as a bride is how we look on our wedding day! We want first and foremost to feel and look our best from head to toe. The dress, the shoes, the make-up, the hair, the list goes on and on. It is all of the details that make your wedding the ‘PERFECT’ day. Brides start months before the wedding day with diets and exercise regimes, with facials and spa treatments. Often times you find with the stress of all the planning you have gained, instead of losing weight. You may find your skin is looking tired and stressed. The key is to maintain your health and achieve your goals to be the most beautiful bride. Fresh Medical Spa has clear solutions that are guaranteed to make you look and feel your best on your wedding day.
Shape and Sculpt your Body with the Ion Magnum/ Arasys. YOU WILL FIT INTO THAT DRESS! We are all interested in the many procedures out there that promise weight loss and inch loss, sometimes you find you gain more weight after, or the weight loss is just temporary. The treatments are often very expensive and who wants to put money into something that is not GUARANTEED? Fresh Medical Spa has found the answer using scientifically proven technology to help you sculpt your body. The Ion Magnum/Arasys system uses micro-current frequency to contract the muscles, simulating normal exercise. It is safe, noninvasive and FDA-approved. The Ion Magnum/Arasys smoothly flexes the body muscles and burns fat. Ion Magnum can be placed on almost any muscle group on the body and if used regularly, with a sensible diet, will fight the flab without having to hit the gym. The results of strenuous gym exercise can be obtained without raising body temperature or causing strain, soreness or exhaustion. In one 35 minute treatment you will burn 5000 calories and simulate working out 12 hours in the gym. You will lose inches instantly and keep them off. How? The inch loss is real, not just temporary water weight loss, so the inches stay off. The technology naturally increases metabolic rate to initiate the weight loss and is perfect for spot training of trouble areas that cannot be conquered with standard exercise. It tones your tummy, thighs, arms, buttocks or other troublesome areas. The enhanced detoxification and blood circulation achieved during the treatment will leave you with an effortlessly attained fitness and well-being. The IEllios treatment is creating a new era of Ageless womEn & men who look healthy and naturally youthful. You deserve to be beautiful and glowing inside and out. This treatment will give you flawless skin perfection. The IEllios is a noninvasive skin rejuvenation computerized device that builds new tissue, lifts sagging muscles, purifies and detoxifies, transforming the skin with a youthful glow. You will see immediate results. This is a “must have” treatment the day before or day of your wedding. You also should think about doing a series of treatments so that you are making the cells stronger and creating a lasting and rejuvenated look. The treatment is what we call “Magic”. What treatment do you know can give you increased collagen and elastin by speaking to the cells in your body and telling them to reproduce? It is a natural process that the IEllios can produce for you by using the same micro-current technology that is used in the Ion Magnum/Arasys system. Fast, painless, remarkably effective and is dubbed the Ultimate Face Lift. No Pain. No Surgery. Restore healthy, natural, youthful radiance in as little as 30 minutes. p * To receive the specials listed on ad mention Bridal Confidential.
“Your Honeymoon Specialist”
1499 Ouellette Avenue, Windsor 519-252-3331 or 1-800-953-2875 valentetravel.com
Jodi & Anthony ~ October 9, 2010 Photograph by: Livetech Photo.Video
Kristen & Joe ~ November 13, 2010 Photograph by: trevorboothphotography.ca
a perfect way to end a perfect wedding... A perfect honeymoon! The trend of going on a honeymoon didn’t become commonplace until the Victorian era in England. At the time, couples were kept apart after the engagement, and the first honeymoons were intended to give the couple time to become reacquainted in a quiet and relaxed place. The couple being kept apart has gone by the wayside in today’s society, but the honeymoon has not. In fact, the honeymoon is an integral part of the wedding and looked forward to when the celebrations are over.
Sarah & Mark ~ September 18, 2010 Photograph by: Eryn.Shea.Photography
In the good old days, the honeymoon was usually paid for by the groom’s family. Unfortunately, this tradition has not carried down, and now the couple is expected to pay for it themselves and along with the wedding expenses, a honeymoon may place too much strain on your budget. ... the answer... a travel registry! If you already have many of the things you will need to set up your new home and simply don’t need the usual wedding gifts of appliances and linens, why not have a bridal registry with your travel agent? Your friends and guests don’t have to purchase the entire trip, but could contribute to the overall cost.
Jennifer & Mike ~ October 30, 2010 Photograph by: Chalet Studio Photography
Christina & Scott ~ August 7, 2010 Photograph by: Trendy Photos
YOUR DREAM GREECE WEDDING! Imagine exchanging vows with the love of your life on the breathtaking island of Santorini. Enjoy a worry-free destination wedding when you book our Greece wedding package.
12 DAYS • 11 NIGHTS 3 nights Athens • 5 nights Santorini 3 nights Mykonos
PACKAGE INCLUDES: • Accommodations & Transfers • Wedding coordinator • Wedding ceremony, wedding dinner at local restaurant, wedding cake • Wedding reservations, two witnesses, wedding documentation*, license fees, legal costs and mayoral fee for the wedding ceremony • Photographer for one hour including a CD with photos And much more!
Jill & Joe ~ July 17 2010 Photograph by: Neil Elias Photography
Once you have traveled, the voyage never ends, but is played out over and over again in the quietest chambers.
For more information on how to book your dream Greek wedding contact your wedding destination specialists at Marlin Travel, Lambton Mall today! Lambton Mall – 1380 London Rd, Sarnia
The mind can never
519-542-3424 or 1-866-542-3424
break off from the journey. Pat Conroy
*Please inquire about the required wedding documentation. Current Transat Holidays brochure Terms & Conditions apply. Transat Holidays reserves the right to modify the conditions, inclusions or withdraw this offer at any time without prior notice. Transat Holidays is a division of Transat Tours Canada Inc. , and is registered as a travel wholesaler in Ontario (Ont reg # 50009486) with offices at 191 The West Mall, Suite 800 Etobicoke, ON M9C 5K8. Printed July 2011
BRIDAL CONFIDENTIAL • 2/3 PAGE • 2011/2012
Rochelle & Daniel ~ November 20, 2010 Photograph by: Trendy Photos
“A Movie for Life” You are the stars; your family and friends play the supporting roles. Relive it all again in HD quality sight and sound. Be sure your videographer is knowledgeable, experienced and has state of the art equipment. Your “directors” should be skilled, low key and your “movie” will be Oscar worthy! Like any good film, you will want to experience it over and over again. By Judy at Anchor Video Productions
www.anchorvideo.com
Location: Windsor Inn on the River Photographer: Samantha Clarke Photography Gown/Accessories: Daniela’s Bridal Boutique Makeup: Glow Makeup Studio
Vintage Inspired Wedding
Winery
a
wedding!
by Liz Bennett
The perfect setting for the wedding of your dreams – unique, romantic, unforgettable, not only for the two of you but for the family and friends gathered to celebrate with you on this special day. Pelee Island Winery is the perfect setting for your indoor or outdoor wedding and reception. Indoor spaces are often used in conjunction with our two patios that offers a picturesque backdrop. For example, you might exchange vows under the covered patio, then walk over to our Canadian or European banquet rooms for your reception. Add to your special day with a wine that will enhance the celebration! We’ll suggest a wine that will complement the meal being served and help you add your own personal style to the wine bottles with custom-made labels to commemorate the occasion. Our outstanding customer service, dedication, and world-renowned wines are just a few of the reasons to make Pelee Island Winery your number one choice! We invite you to tour our facilities and speak with our wedding coordinator. They will discuss your ideas for a dream wedding at Pelee Island Winery. Liz & Geoff ~ May 7, 2011 Photographs by Bonneau Photography
Your guests will remember your Pelee Island Winery wedding for many years to come.
Call us to make an appointment at 519-733-6551 or e-mail at events@peleeisland.com.
Wine is the most civilized thing in the world.
Ernest Hemingway.
Bridal Confidential’s
Wedding Event at the Fogolar Furlan Club
Limos by Mr. J’s
thank you to our production team Estetica Day Spa ~ Fogolar Furlan Club ~ Focal Point Photography Corbett Productions ~ Signature Events by RL ~ Live-Tech Photo.Video
thank you to our fashion show sponsors It’s Your Day Bridal Boutique ~ Elkas Designs Bridal Boutique Goldcoast Fashions ~ Collins Formal Wear ~ Daniela’s Bridal Boutique Here Comes the Bride Bridal Boutique ~ Jacobs Gowns . Footwear . Accessories 212
photographs courtesy of
Focal Point Photography view more photos and video at
www.bridalconfidential.com
LONDON / sT. tHOMAS service directory 18 18 19 20 18 20 19
Bachelorette Parties Passion Parties
55
banquet halls Best Western Lamplighter Inn 12 Delta London Armouries 25 Elm Hurst Inn & Spa 24 Fanshawe Pioneer Village 23 London Ukrainian Centre 21 London Wedding Garden 23 Maltese-Canadian Club of London 22 Marienbad Restaurant 24 Mocha Shrine Centre 24 Stoneridge Inn & Conference Centre 21 Stone Willow Inn 22 The Berkshire Club 23 BRIDAL CONSULTANT/PLANNERS R & G Wedding & Event Planners 33 bridal registry/gift shops Sears Canada Inc. Gift Registry 120 & inside front cover bridal shops Anthiea’s of London 26 Courtney Rose Bridal & Ladies Fashions 27 Couture Threads Bridal & Event Dressing 9 Deltas Wedding & Party Planning 28 Once Upon A Time Weddings 26 Sew Stylish Wedding Works 27 caterers Elite Catering by Design Normand Piquette Catering Steel Grill Catering
30 29 29
Celebrants/Officiants Romantic Wedding Ceremonies
31
chapels London Wedding Garden The Rose Chapel
23 21
cleaners/gown preservation Richmond Cleaners 28 decorators Ferreira Party & Wedding Gala Decor
32 32
disc jockeys A & M Sounds Disc Jockey Service 36 Executive DJ and Event Services 37 Hunter’s Disc Jockey Service Ltd. 34 Music Central Entertainment 37 Professional MC/DJ Entertainment 34 The PA Shop 35 florists Esther’s Flowers & Gifts Fellows Fernlea Flowers Inc. McInnis Flowers & Gifts formal wear/tuxedos Bud Gowan Formal Wear Collins Formal Wear
38 38 39 11 & 41 27 & 41
hair salons N U Hair & Makeup Studio 43 Salon Brittash 42 Scizzorhands 43 Side Street Salon back cover & 42 jewellers Young & Co. Fine Jewellery limousines/coaches A Universal Limousine Badder Luxury Coaches Grandeur Limousine
45 46 46 47
makeup artists N U Hair & Makeup Studio 43 Scizzorhands 43 manicure/pedicure Finger’s N Toe’s Nail Studio
42
party favours Streamers Your Party & Event Store 48 The Canadian Cancer Society 49 Weddingfavours.ca 48
They gave each other a smile with a future in it. Ring Lardner
Metcalfe Photography
accommodations Comfort Inn Days Inn London Hampton Inn by Hilton Quality Suites Radisson Hotel & Suites London Station Park All Suite Hotel Staybridge Suites
photographers Abela Photography Aurorra Photography Kit Wilson Photography Memories Photography Studio Reflections by Terri
51 52 50 52 53
picture framing Reflections Pictures Plus Framing 49 rental services Advantage Portable Central Sanitation
127 54
restaurants Marienbad Restaurant Tru Restaurant & Lounge
24 57
spas Finger’s N Toe’s Nail Studio 42 Side Street Salon back cover & 42 43 Scizzorhands N U Hair & Makeup Studio 43 travel agencies Marlin Travel Sarnia Transat Holidays
15 & 59 15 & 59
videographers Anchor Video Productions Jennifer Keating Videography
61 60
weight management Herbal One Weight Management 5 WEDDING SHOWS The Gay Wedding Show London’s Premier Bridal Shows
30 40
wine making Holidays Winery Wine Lovers
62 63
Sarnia / Chatham service directory accommodations The Harbourfront Inn
74
bakeries Isn’t Life Sweet Merie’s Cake ‘N’ Stuff
75 75
banquet halls Baldoon Golf Club Bogey’s Inn & Suites Club Lentinas Dante Club Forest Golf & Country Hotel Holiday Inn, Point Edward Retro Suites Hotel Sarnia Riding Club Sawmill Creek Golf Resort & Spa
76 80 77 66 82 79 76 80 81
bridal registry/gift shops Sears Canada Inc. Gift Registry 120 & inside front cover William Clawson Metal Sculptor 102 bridal consultant/planner Victoria’s Décor & Event Planning 88 bridal shops Aliya Bridal Fashions Altered Elegance Goldcoast Fashions caterers Gondola Trattoria Limbos Lunch Lounge Normand Piquette Catering Serene Cuisine
98
florists Canadian Tire Floral Boutique K Designs LaPier’s Flowers & Gifts My Secret Garden The Flower Garden
95 96 94 94 96
formal wear/tuxedos Bud Gowan Collins Formal Wear Moores Clothing For Men
11 & 97 84 & 97 125
hair salons Form + Function Salon Spa JT’s Hair Studio Total Hair & Body Care
101 100 99
insurance/investing Sun LIfe Financial
141
Invitations Lillie Belles Wedding Store 107 PostNet 107 The Party Place 107 jewellers Young & Co. Fine Jewellery
102
83 84 jewellery IKB Boutique 85 Lia Sophia Wearable Art by Kathryn 87 86 87 86
cleaners/gown preservation Aliya Bridal Fashions 83 decorators LaPier’s Flowers & Gifts Par-Tee Rentals Signature Events By RL Inc. To Suit Your Fancy Treasured Memories Victoria’s Décor & Event Planning
Fitness Centre Dynamic Fitness by Lorrie
90 89 91 91 90 88
disc jockeys Canada’s DJ Service 93 Professional MC/DJ Entertainment 93 Total Entertainment 92
103 103 102
limousines/coaches A Universal Limousine Badder Luxury Coaches Grandeur Limousine Penguin Limousine Prestige Limousine Royal Limousines of Windsor
106 105 104 104 105 106
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Colin Graf, Classical Guitar
122
makeup artists Adora Spa Caryl Baker Visage Glass Pillar & Spa Merle Norman Cosmetics
100 & 133 7 73 3
party favours Lillie Belles Wedding Store 107 PostNet 107 Sewlutions 84 The Party Place 107
photographers Alina Claire Photography Donna Nolan Photography Enlighten Bridal Jer Wilcocks Photography Studio John Lyons Weddings Lens on Life Photographic Expressions Lorrie Willams Photographer Metcalfe Photography Nicki Gould Real Photography Photography by Phos3 Cameron’s Candids Star Photography
122 110 112 111 121 123 108 122 109 124 125 124
Realtor Re/Max - Sean Ryan
140
rental services Advantage Portable Toilet Services 127 Central Sanitation 126 Festival Tent & Party Rentals Inc. 128 restaurants Limbos Lunch Lounge Olives Casual Cuisine The Brigantine spas Adora Spa Caryl Baker Visage Glass Pillar & Spa Merle Norman Cosmetics
129 130 130 100 & 133 7 73 3
Tanning Kokomo’s Sun Tanning
131
tent rentals Festival Tent & Party Rentals Inc. 128 Par-Tee Rentals 89 travel agencies Marlin Travel Sarnia 69, 135, 136 & 137 Transat Holidays 69, 135, 136 & 137 Vellinga’s Travel Service 134 videographers Anchor Video Productions Jennifer Keating Videographer weight management Herbal One Weight Management wine making Lakeshore Artisan Wines Stompin’ Grapes Winery
138 138 5 139 139
windsor / essex service directory 150 153 150 144 151
banquet halls Caesars Windsor 160 Club Alouette 156 Cramdon’s 19th at Wildwood 156 Hilton Windsor 144 153 Holiday Inn & Suites La Cucina 2010 1 Pelee Days Inn 158 Pelee Island Winery 158 Place Concorde 157 Riverside Sportsmen 154 Rochester Place 158 “St. Nicholas” Macedonian Centre 155 Scottish Club of Windsor 159 Torino Restaurant & Banquet Hall 159 Windsor Riverside Inn 144 bakeries Sunrise Bakery & Pastry 161 Renée’s Fine Cakes 162
formalwear/tuxedos Collins Formal Wear 166 & 177 florists Bloom Boutique Flowers & Gifts 175 Flowers by Design 168 & 169 I&F Designs 175 New Designs Flowers & Gifts 174 Oak Farms 174 hair salons Beautiful Images 179 Classic ReCreations Hair Studio 178 178 Salon Attitude Invitations Finishing Touches Invitations & Gifts by Elisa Madison Avenue Designs
180 181 181
jewellers G&G Jewellery Gold Star Jewellers
182 182
ladies fashions Jacobs Boutique Our Place Ladies Fashions
183 185
limousines/coaches bridal registry/gift shops A Universal Limousine Sears Canada Inc. Gift Registry 120 Badder Luxury Coaches & inside front cover Grandeur Limousine Williams Food Equipment 167 Limos by Mr. J’s Prestige Limousine bridal shops Royal Limousines of Windsor Bridal Couture 164 Southway/C.A. Bailey Ltd. Daniela’s Bridal Boutique 165 Here Comes the Bride 164 It’s Your Day 163 Lady Di’s Consignment Bridal 165 Sophie’s Gown Shoppe 166 caterers Carmen’s Catering Mezzo Ristorante
167 204
cleaners/gown preservation Kennedy’s Cleaners 164 decorators Designs by Diane 148 & 149 It’s A Swanky Affair 168 & 169 Soirée Event Extraordinaire 170 disc jockeys Corbett Productions Don’s Disc Jockey Service NXT level Entertainment
171 172 173
Romance is the glamour which turns the dust of everyday life into a golden haze. Elinor Glyn
188 189 189 187 188 186 186
makeup artists Caryl Baker Visage Glow Makeup Studio Make-up by Klaudia
7 191 190
party favours Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital Foundation 192 Invitations & Gifts by Elisa 181 Transition to Betterness 192 photographers Britton Images Photography 194 Chalet Studio 193 Eryn Shea Photography 202 Focal Point Photography 202 Gabriel Photography 203 GrinVilla Weddings 201 Jayme Morrison Photography 198 John Lyons Weddings 121 Livetech Photo.Video 199 & inside back cover Neil Elias Photography 195 Photography by JMH 203 Trendy Photos 200 Trevor Booth Photography 197 realtor Re/Max Preferred Realty Ltd.
176
rental services Festival Tent & Party Rentals Inc. 205 The PA Shop 205 restaurants La Cucina 2010 Mezzo Ristorante
1 204
spas Caryl Baker Visage Fresh Medical Spa Harmony Day Spa
7 207 206
travel agencies Marlin Travel Sarnia Transat Holidays Valente Travel Metcalfe Photography
accommodations Hampton Inn & Suites Holiday Inn & Suites St. Clair College Residence Travelodge Downtown Windsor Windsor Inn On The River
147 & 209 147 & 209 208
videographers Anchor Video Productions 210 Livetech Photo.Video 199 WEDDING SHOWS Leamington’s Premier Wedding Show 180 Windsor’s Wedding Shows 196 weight management Herbal One Weight Management wineries Pelee Island Winery
5 211
info@sidestreetsalon.ca www.sidestreetsalon.ca