2018 Kamloops Bridal Fair

2 18 Kamloops

Bridal

air F

14th Anniversary

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 TRU CAMPUS ACTIVITY CENTRE

10:00 am - 2:00 pm | Fashion Show: 2:00 pm

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Bridal Boutique & Wedding Decorating Services FIRST COMES LOVE is a full service bridal boutique specializing in new exclusive designer wedding gowns, flower girl, prom, & bridesmaid dresses, as well as all of the accessories to perfect your look!

Our beautifully renovated store boasts 100’s of gowns to choose from and our private luxury viewing spaces will be comfortable for your friends and family while you’re saying yes to your dream dress!

At First Comes Love, we also specialize in wedding and event design, setup and take-down decorating packages, DIY decor rentals, stunning ceiling drapery, and the best photo booth rentals around!

Our decorating packages are built so all of our inventory is included in your package. We will set it all up and take it all down for you so you can enjoy your wedding weekend with your friends and family.

• Gowns from top designers - Essense of Australia, Stella York, Allure Bridals, Hayley Paige, Sophia Tolli, Moonlight, Eddy K, Chic Nostalgia, Sorella Vita and more!

• 3 High Definition photo/video booths that are sure to keep your guests entertained. Fast printing. Highest quality in B.C.

• Full service decorating setup and take-down packages that include all of your linens & decor

• Extravagant ceiling drapery

• Linen and decor rentals for the “decorate it yourself” bride!

• Tents, tables, & chairs for outside weddings • Gold Chiavari Chair Rentals

Visit us at our NEW Location! www.firstcomeslove.biz 367 Victoria Street ~ Kamloops

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778.471.2445 • info@firstcomeslove.biz 2018 January Bridal Guide

The Perfect Setting for Private Events & Weddings Unique | Authentic | Unforgettable Celebrate your pre-or-post wedding events, as well as your unforgettable wedding day Breathtaking scenery | Private sandy beach | Indoor/outdoor venue Beach bonfire | Spa & golf packages Nestled on the shores of the picturesque Little Shuswap Lake, steps away from our private beach, tranquil mountains and outstanding panoramic views— the Quaaout Lodge & Spa at Talking Rock Golf Resort is truly a unique, picture-perfect location for your wedding.

Stay | Spa | Dine |Golf Plan your unforgettable event 1.800.663.4303 x 401 • sales@quaaoutlodge.com • www.quaaoutlodge.com Photography by: Christie Mickelson Photography • Décor Styling & Wedding Planning by: Wild Sage Events

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“Like fine wine, our love will g r o w w i t h t i m e .”

-Author Unknown

Let us help you make your Wedding Day

extra special Choose an 8 or 5 week kit that makes thirty, 750 ml. bottles of wine per batch.

You can pick from our large variety, or make one of your favourite wines to serve.

Come in and we will help get you started.

#202~1150 Hillside Dr. Aberdeen Court

250. 314.9641

www.winekitzkamloops.com Monday - Friday 10 am - 6 pm Saturday 9 am - 5 pm

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2018 Kamloops Bridal Fair Exhibitors: •1 990 Films • A1 Bus Ltd. • Aglow Bridal • Arbonne — Ginel Stephenson • Aspect Film Works •B arkerville Historic Town & Park •B ed Bath & Beyond •B randy Maddison Event Planning & Design •C laire Hanna Graphic Design •C ommon Initiatives •C ommon Sound •C ork N Label U-Brew • Costco • DiVine Tours •D octor Love and Hemp City •E legant Junk Décor •F abutan Hush Lash Studios • Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge •F irst Comes Love Gowns & Events •F lowers from Sarah’s Garden •F orever Lips by Tamara (LipSense/Senegence) •F our Points by Sheraton Kamloops •H eartlock Media •H olly Louwerse Photography •H otel Five540Forty •H udson’s Bay Company • Jonni’s Styling Studio •K amloops Florist •K itchen Charm Canada •L ac L e Jeune Wilderness Resort

•L B Photography •M ary Kay Cosmetics — Sandy Campbell •m e&be Photography •M onat Global — Carolyn Rempel •M onte Creek Ranch Winery •M oores Clothing For Men •N ick Carter DJ Services •N ourishing Gourmet Catering • Privato Vineyard & Winery •P ure Romance •R amada Kamloops •R eubin’s Diner •R ogers Rental •R ozalind Ewashina Photography •S olo Entertainment •S outh Thompson Inn •S un Life Financial •S un Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre •S weet Spot Cupcakes • TapSnap Photobooth • Tastefull Excursions Inc. • The Dunes • Tony’s DJ Service • TRU Conference Centre • TRU Residence and Conference Centre • True Smiles • Twisted Roots Kitchen & Catering Ltd. •Q uaaout Lodge and Spa •U ptown Chefs Catering & Events • Viva Bridal Boutique • Wild Sage Events • Your Big Day

Cover Photo by:

2018 January Bridal Guide

Welcome to the Bridal Fair, brides & grooms T

his year, we celebrate the 14th annual Kamloops Bridal Fair, hosted by the TRU Conference Centre.

Viva Bridal Boutique and Common Sound return as partners for the event in 2018. Join us for this marquee event on Sunday, Jan. 29, in the Campus Activity Centre at Thompson Rivers University. Doors will open at 10 a.m.

As the only bridal fair in Kamloops, the event team is dedicated to providing a variety of resources for soon-to-be brides and grooms. The event is free to attend and, with more than 60 exhibitors on hand to showcase their talents, products and services, engaged couples should not miss the Kamloops Bridal Fair.

Early registration for the event is encouraged and can be completed through the Kamloops Bridal Fair website at xxx.

Those who register early will secure a complimentary tote bag to commemorate the event. It can also be used to keep track of exhibitor cards and samples.

Guests can pick up their tote bag upon arrival.

An assortment of exhibitors will be at the bridal fair, including photographers, videographers, caterers, florists, décor companies, DJ services, hair and makeup artists and financial advisors, allowing brides and grooms to cross off multiple items on their to-do list.

Couples are encouraged to approach vendors with their questions and to set up future meetings (arranging one-on-one meetings is a great way to find the vendor match of your dreams).

Vendors will provide samples of their past work, as well as a peek into what’s trending in the industry. The goal of the bridal fair is to have couples departing while feeling less intimidated by the planning that goes into a wedding — and with fresh ideas to make the day their own.

There is a plenty to see at the Kamloops Bridal Fair.

The Bridal Lounge (located in The Den) is a great place to relax and reflect on the vendors that have been visited throughout the day. In the lounge, brides, grooms and their wedding parties can enjoy a bite to eat and plan out which vendors to visit next.

At 2 p.m., couples and their parties are encouraged to make their way to the Grand Hall Ballroom for a fashion show presented by bridal fair partners Viva Bridal Boutique

Published by KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK

The Kamloops Bridal Fair team (clockwise from back left): Jesse Faubert from Common Sound, Stephanie Tate, Jessica Cooper, Jordyn McCrea, Anthony Salituro from Viva Bridal Boutique and Brielle Hwalstad from TRU Conference Centre

and Common Sound. The fashion show delights guests year after year and features the latest wedding dress trends.

The Kamloops Bridal Fair would not be the event it is today without sponsors Jonni’s Styling Studio, GK Sound, Avenue Media House, Kamloops This Week, B100, Brandy Maddison Event Planning & Design and Holly Louwerse Photography. Part of the fun of attending the fashion show is the chance to win prizes donated by bridal fair vendors.

Every year, the TRU Conference Centre employs three student co-ordinators from Thompson Rivers University to assist with the planning of the event.

These students incorporate their fresh ideas into the event, while gaining industry experience. Second-year tourism management student Jessica Cooper is the 2018 fashion show co-ordinator. She will be assisting Jesse Faubert of Common Sound and Anthony Salituro of Viva Bridal Boutique in planning the fashion show.

Volunteers are the backbone to the Kamloops Bridal Fair and third-year communications student Stephanie Tate has been hard at work recruiting and managing volunteers for the event.

Completing her final year of the event management program, Jordyn McCrea has been busy behind the scenes as marketing co-ordinator.

The event’s main organizer is TRU events and wedding co-ordinator Brielle Hwalstad. She has been involved with the Bridal Fair for a number of years and has been an instrumental part of the event’s growth. She is passionate about providing a valuable experience for engaged couples every year.

The TRU Conference Centre, Viva Bridal Boutique, Common Sound, our student coordinators, show sponsors and exhibitors are inviting everyone to the 2018 Kamloops Bridal Fair. They hope your experience at the event will ease those planning jitters and provide you with inspiration to make your perfect day a reality.

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The perfect place to have it all…

The South Thompson Inn & Conference Centre is Kamloops premier all season riverfront wedding destination. From groups of 2 to 200 we would be honored to welcome you and your family to celebrate your special day.

Your Dream ~ Your Day What the happy couples say about us: “Your entire team were amazing looking after every detail for our wedding.”

“We chose STIGR because we attended another wedding there. Sure glad we did.”

“Our guests couldn’t get over se the quality of the food and service.”

“Some of our guests said it was the best wedding they have ever been to.” “ Perfect setting.”

The Inn offers: • A great team of people to assist with every detail • Indoor & outdoor riverfront weddings & receptions • Complete food and beverage service • Beautiful river view banquet rooms • Private Manor House accommodations • Luxurious honeymoon suites • Beautifully landscaped grounds for photographs We appreciate the importance of this day and will do everything possible to make it perfect for you!

“Kentucky Style” Inn ~ Western Style Hospitality Contact us: 250.573.3777 events@stigr.com

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2018 January Bridal Guide

GETTING MARRIED?

Check out these 10 great tips to ensure your big day is a success:

1

Always consider the weather:

Nobody wants rain on their wedding day, nor do your guests want to sit and watch your wedding while the sun is beating down in 40 C heat. If you are having an outdoor wedding, consider putting a tent rental into your budget, which will cover you in the event of rain or sunshine.

Another thing to consider when getting married outside is asking your makeup artist to use makeup with SPF to avoid any unwanted overexposure during the course of the day.

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hink about who will need to T be fed the day of the nuptials:

Most photographers, DJs or other vendors who will be there during the meal have an expectation of being fed. If you are unsure if they are expecting it, just ask.

They don’t need a special place setting; vendors, like most DJ’s, will sit and eat at their stations. Others who need to be fed include your bridal party; spending the morning primping and getting ready means most won’t have time for a bite to eat. You don’t want anyone to have spent their day with an empty stomach.

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When a vendor asks for a day-of point of contact, ensure it isn’t someone in the wedding party.

If the bakery is going to be late delivering your cake and the cake boss is frantically trying to call your sister to let you know, chances are she doesn’t have her phone stuffed into her bridesmaid dress. To lessen the stress on the day of, ask a reliable friend or family member who isn’t a part of the wedding party. Ideally, the point of contact will be someone who is part of the planning process and who will know what’s is going on, but still be available during the day. This means they probably won’t be off taking photos with everyone and will ensure they have their phone on them for a hiccup-free day.

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Have a wedding day kit:

Anything can happen. To lessen the disaster of an ill-fitting garter or a drink spilled on a dress, always be prepared for the unexpected. These are some things that you should put in your wedding day kit: sunscreen, bobby pins, pens and paper, travel sewing kit, lip balm, hairbrush, safety pins, hair spray, bottled water, mouthwash, super glue, toothbrush and toothpaste, Tide To Go, scissors, deodorant, Kleenex, hand sanitizer, tampons, Band-Aids, vendor list (see below), Advil, lighter, Gravol and tape.

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Have a vendor list:

Write down the list of names and numbers of important people. This is a popular thing that has been on Pinterest, but it is something everyone should do.

Make sure this list is in your wedding day kit for reference and ensure your point of contact also has this list, Here are a few people who need to be on that list: florist, venue contact, DJ, bakery, caterer, decorator, hair stylist, photographer/videographer, makeup artist, officiant/ commissioner and limo driver/transportation contact.

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Consider and rank your priorities with your budget:

Consider the smaller details and their level of importance to your day, then budget accordingly. If you do not think that having a lavish wedding cake is a big priority for you, slash the amount you spend on it; why spend a lot of money on something that isn’t as important to you? For example, if having a top rate photographer is something that is really important to you, then allocate more of your budget for it.

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Be wary of Pinterest:

Pinterest is a great tool for ideas or current trends, but plenty of the DIY centrepieces you have pinned aren’t always cheaper to do it yourself. Consider your budget and time you have before running off to the thrift store to find teacups and matching saucers. Chances are they will only have four and you will spend your whole day and a tank of gas running to every second-hand store in town to find more. There are always great ideas and Pinterest is a great place to spark some creativity, but be original and consider your own style while you’re planning your big day.

When planning DIY ideas for you wedding, always do it in advance. Last-minute searching and crafting is stressful.

Things may not turn out the way you hoped they would, so be prepared to have a backup (think Pinterest fails).

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Always send thank-you cards:

Regardless whether they gave you a gift, always send a thank-you card. They took time out of their lives to celebrate with you and, especially if they brought a gift, you need to acknowledge it. When it comes to the gifts, remember, once unwrapped, you probably won’t remember who it is from. A good trick is to either tape the card to the gift they gave you, take a photo of the gift and who it is from or even film unwrapping all the gifts. It is best to have a helper write in the card what they gave you.

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Have a rehearsal:

Even if walking down the aisle seems like a nobrainer, a rehearsal is always recommended. Be sure to invite your photographer, especially if the ceremony is outside, so they know what to expect for your wedding party and the weather at that time. Ensure everyone knows where they are supposed to be walking to and from and take sunlight into consideration — especially for photos. Ideally, schedule your rehearsal the day before at the same time as your wedding ceremony so you will have an idea of how the lighting will be at that time.

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Book in advance:

You can’t always plan when the proposal happens, but weddings need to be booked in advance for your venue, photographer, commissioner, etc. to all line up on the date you would like. Even if you are flexible on the date, all of the vendors you want may not be, so be sure to book as much in advance as you can.

— TRU Conference Centre

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Let music shape your wedding day M

usic can change the dynamic of a single moment, of a day and of a whole life, so imagine what it can do on a wedding day.

The music can set the tone for the ceremony, speak to the bride individually, speak to the couple and set the mood for the night’s festivities. Think of that moment when the guests hear the first note of the processional song and the bride takes her first step down the aisle It can evoke so many emotions.

In an instant, you can learn so much about her. The processional song can speak to the bride almost as much as her wedding dress can. The modern bride in a fitted lace gown with a plunging neckline might walk down to Aviici, while the classic bride in a beaded ballgown may opt for the beautiful piano music of Pachelbel’s Canon in D. People wait with bated breath for that moment.

As a wedding designer, co-ordinator and florist, seeing the finished product all tie together on the big day, with music, is incredibly gratifying. They spend countless hours piecing together all of the right details for a couple’s special day. Some couples have their own vision, while others let the professionals have free creative reign to create the decor for the day.

Whether it is a rustic-chic theme with mason jars, baby’s breath and wooden signs or an airy ethereal feel with an

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Naomi

Harpist for Weddings Accompanying extraordinary celebrations with music from the harp.

Elegant Romantic Exquisite naomicloutier.com naomi.cloutier@outlook.com • (250) 318-0779

2018 January Bridal Guide

abundance of greenery and candles everywhere, each wedding has its own flair. When you add the couple’s musical taste to the mix, you have a one-of-a-kind day that will go down as their favourite and leave their family and friends on Cloud Nine along with them.

Learning about the couple’s first dance song is exciting. In under five minutes, a song can tell a story.

And, on a wedding day, it tells their special story in its own little way. It could be the song they heard on the first night they met, a tune by their favourite band or even a song that doesn’t seem overly significant to the guests, but has a deeper meaning to the couple.

Watching them have their first dance as husband and wife, usually while whispering to each other the entire time, is one of the most special moments of the wedding day. It also happens to be the precursor to the party that follows. Typically, event planning work is done shortly after the first dances, but we love hearing about how everyone lets their hair down and dances until the wee hours of the night.

Working in the wedding industry is one of the most rewarding experiences. To witness a real life fairytale unfold in front of our eyes, with its very own soundtrack, is something we hold so close to our hearts.

— Brandy Maddison Event Planning & Design

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T I N P O P P Y R E T R E AT. C O M

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Creating your picture-perfect bridal look

E

very girl dreams of how she will look walking down the aisle. As we grow older and become brides, we know how hard it can be to actually create that perfect image. A bride should have complete confidence not only in her styling team’s training and skills, but also in their ability to create the perfect look for the entire party.

No matter the theme, era, attitude or mood you want to create for your day, one should meet for consultations or trials with each of their specialists prior to the wedding to co-ordinate and plan for the special day.

Finding a team of incredibly skilled, highly trained and creative professionals who will work together to create the exact look you’re going for is an essential part of wedding planning. The experience should also be as comfortable and personal as possible. What bride wants to be running around town from the hair salon to the makeup artist with their bridesmaids in tow

just hours before saying, “I do”?’

The most convenient option is usually a team that can get together in one location to accommodate the wedding party.

Be sure to interview for and book beauty services early — and provide plenty of input during these consultations. Having a clear vision of what you want your day to be like and communicating that with the professionals in the early stages of the process can help in ensuring your day runs smoothly and everyone is on the same page.

Bringing dress pictures, wedding colour swatches and themes to consider to your consultation provides your team with an overall feel for the wedding and allows them to help create the perfect looks you’ve always imagined. Many brides want to incorporate hair pieces, extensions, veils, antique brooches or hats to their style; be sure to share these items with your styling team so

they can be included in your look.

A good styling team will be able to assess your needs during your consultation to plan not only what is needed on your wedding day, but the preparations and treatments necessary to ready your hair and skin in advance.

A team that will work together to create perfect skin, luscious lashes, artistic nails and the ideal fashion for your hair and makeup is essential to easing stress and tension on your wedding day. Don’t forget a photographer to capture intimate backstage shots of your party’s stunning transformation and the special moments with your bridesmaids and family.

A good stylist will not only be able to create your unique look, but also know exactly how to manage your specific hair type and hold your style throughout the whole day. Some looks like loose beachy waves may need to be set the night before, but a high glam or vintage

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2018 January Bridal Guide

Tips from the pros:

Jonni’s Styling Studio stylists displayed their prowess in bridal hair and makeup by working on models at the 2016 fashion show.

Allen Douglas/KTW

set may need to be completed the morning of the wedding.

Outdoor weddings, for example, may require special netting or pinning to ensure stability on a windy day. Your consultation also allows you plan for a trial run of your style in the days before the wedding so you can be confident that you and your styling team have created the perfect look for you. Trials are also a great way of putting nerves at ease and a great test of your favourite styles to see if, in fact, it works for your hair type. Doing early trials also allows your makeup and hair professionals to have everything laid out and planned in advance, so you are sure everything will be OP FLOWER SH

2015 2016

picture-perfect for your special day.

A well-trained and highly skilled stylist will provide much more than just your wedding day look. For any cutting or colouring needs, depending on the service, they can also help you plan ahead of the day to keep your style looking effortless and natural. They will help you find products and treatments to keep your hair looking healthy and strong long after the wedding and to protect your hair on a tropical or humid honeymoon.

A styling team that focuses on meeting your needs and capturing your unique personality and style is key to a stress-free wedding day.

- Jonni’s Styling Studio

• Choose a team that will work together and consult with them to create the perfect looks for your whole party; • Co-ordinate all your services and personal preferences in one place to ensure your special day runs smoothly; • Decide what treatments are needed and when these should be done — hair, skin, lash, nails, etc.

• Test-run styles to make sure it is the perfect look for you; • Highlights, colours and chemical treatments should be done at least a week before the wedding; • To add shine to dark hair, have a high gloss top coat applied a week before the big day; • Have a deep conditioning treatment done in the days before your appointment to give your hair extra strength and shine; • Facial and spa treatments should also be done in advance. Doing this allows hair and skin time to rest and recuperate before your wedding day; • Never wash your hair the day of the wedding as clean hair does not hold style as well; • Drink plenty of water, eat healthy food, pamper and exfoliate your skin and use products that provide you hair the nutrients and care it needs in preparation for your day.; • Careful planning allows you to put complete trust in your styling team and makes for a stress-free and memorable wedding day.

Kamloops’ #1 Flower Shop Barb’s Bouquets offers the most beautiful wedding florals for your special day.

Let our experienced, professional designers create your dream day bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages and table centres.

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Questions to ask before you decide to plan your own wedding

K

eeping your wedding on budget can be tough and couples everywhere scan their todo lists to see where they can cut costs.

For many, taking on the planning of their own wedding seems like a simple solution to cutting costs.

Before you take the plunge into planning your own wedding, consider these questions: Is this something about which you are passionate?

Does the idea of planning your own wedding have you jumping for joy? Some of us love DIY, to-do lists and getting our hands dirty and that is great. If the idea of planning immediately makes you break out in a sweat, you may want to find another place to cut costs (your planner can help with that).

Are there areas you can delegate to others?

Planning your own wedding can be stressful. To ensure you are sane on your wedding day, focus on the tasks that are most exciting to you and delegate to others tasks that are outside of your expertise.

Are you really passionate about what your guests will be eating at the reception, but don’t know a thing about floral arrangements?

Task a close friend or family member with a good eye for design with developing ideas for the centrepieces.

If you do not want to trouble your family and friends

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with wedding planning tasks, you may consider hiring a planner for a shorter timeline (such as the day of). This will give you more time to focus on the planning that brings you joy, and less on the areas that bring you stress.

What aspects are most important to you?

While planning your wedding, there are likely a million other things going on in your life, from working your 9 to 5 job to household chores. There are going to be things you just don’t have time to plan to the very last detail.

Take a step back and look at the big picture.

What are the most important pieces? Don’t sweat the small stuff as doing so will cause a lot less stress and your guests likely will not notice.

Planning your own wedding can be very empowering, but it can also bring about moments of crying in your shower. Hiring a wedding planner has its benefits. A planner can take on time-consuming tasks and help you stay on budget. A planner will also have connections with vendors and insider information that will save you time and money. Take charge of the aspects that you are excited about, but don’t feel the need to take it all on.

Make sure planning your wedding doesn’t take away from your mood the day of. Enjoy every second of your special day and laugh through the hiccups. Happy planning.

— Jordyn McCrea, 2018 Kamloops Bridal Fair marketing co-ordinator

2018 January Bridal Guide

Striking a balance with trends A

s a designer, I’ve always kept my eye on the latest design trends. Sourcing trends, and the details to bring them to life, is something I get excited about. This year welcomes vibrant colour, warm metal tones, modern marble and natural wood.

May you find inspiration in this year’s up-and-coming trends to help you create the wedding of your dreams.

The modern combination of marble and copper accents is mainstream when it comes to home décor right now, but this pairing is also equally beautiful for weddings. Metallic accents, such as copper, gold and brass tones, adorn décor by adding luxury, splendour and warmth. Contrasting marble creates a harmonious mix, adding a classic touch while still staying modern.

Natural wood tones add stylish warmth and comfort to modern design, creating a beautiful contrast to marble and harmonizing beautifully with warm metal tones.

Simple but sophisticated, sculptural geometric shapes, in warm metal tones for example, offer endless possibilities as they blend in seamlessly with any décor.

Geometric centerpieces are trending thanks to their versatility. I love the idea of balancing sleek geometric shapes with soft flowers and natural elements.

A movement toward intense colours rather than garden pastels is music to the ears of bright colourloving brides and grooms. 2018 brings an explosion of colour, with vibrant hues such as deep reds, plum purples and burnt yellows. Bright bold blooms and large scale floral arrangements are trending in a big way.

Regardless the trends you are inclined to follow, your wedding is an opportunity to blend your individual styles.

Attempt to strike a balance with trends that reflect your personalities and traditional elements to keep everything grounded and timeless. Finding harmony between the two will ensure your wedding stands the test of time.

Be true to yourself when planning your décor and your wedding will scream authenticity. Select colours, design elements and décor that you truly love. After all, what’s important is that you love every aspect of your big day.

Being true to yourself never goes out of style.

— Jody Peddle, PAXMA Designs

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A DJ can make or break the reception N

ot only does music set the mood for your big day, but it’s also one of the main factors that can make or break a wedding reception.

All too often we hear horror stories about wedding guests leaving early because the music was bad, didn’t flow or was too loud or too quiet. To make sure your wedding doesn’t fall on that list of horrors, we’ve put together some suggestions for making sure you are prepared for the party and some questions to ask your DJ before the big day.

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Where and what to look for when researching DJs:

• From other vendors: we highly suggest you ask other vendors, such as wedding stores, photographers, videographers and event planners, who they would recommend. These professionals spend every weekend watching DJs do their thing, so who better to ask than someone who has witnessed all of them work in person?

• From venues: most venues will either have some experience seeing the DJs or have feedback systems in place for learning how their clients found their experience with different vendors used at their location. Also, having DJs who are used to working in a particular venue can be helpful if something goes wrong.

• On Facebook pages: there are plenty of Facebook pages dedicated to weddings in your city, so this is a great place to ask for feedback about local and out-of-town DJs straight from brides themselves. But be sure to start by searching for older feedback as this question has more than likely been asked before and you’ll want to get the most feedback possible.

• On the DJ’s Facebook page: website testimonials can be old or made up, so it’s important to check recently posted reviews from real people online. If you have more questions, those people who reviewed would more than likely be willing and able to answer them for you.

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The most important questions to ask your DJ:

• What sets you apart from your competition? Some DJ companies will have studio space in which to practise, special systems in place to help with the day of flow, in-house apps, etc.

• How many weddings have you done and how many years have you been DJing? Experience with weddings can be a huge asset when it comes to reading the crowd and dealing with technical difficulties. But remember, just because someone has been in an industry for 20-plus years doesn’t mean he or she

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is necessarily the best at his or her job. Be sure to consider this with other factors like reviews and recommendations.

• Can you play music for the ceremony and, if so, what is the cost? What does a ceremony service include (i.e. microphones, speakers, running time, etc.)?

• Do you offer any other services? Many DJ companies have other services like photo booths, up-lighting, projectors, etc. Be sure to ask, as some offer packaged discounts.

• What kind of equipment do you use? Some DJs will have pictures of DJ equipment on their site, but will show up with only a laptop. Make sure you’re getting someone who takes his or her craft seriously.

• Do you have my date open?

• What is your pricing and can I get a formal quote? Some DJ companies will have a list of prices on their site, but it’s important to get a quote because it may also include travel, accommodation, deposit amount, pricing, overtime costs, set-up and tear-down costs, etc. as well.

• What will you wear to the wedding? All professional entertainers have access to formalwear (if they don’t, that’s your first clue they’re not professional), but if you’re unable to see pictures of them in action, be sure to specify what you expect them to wear. Any extraordinary requests (period costumes, allwhite tuxes, etc.) are normally paid for by the client.

• Do you bring backup equipment?

• How much time will you need for setup, sound check and breakdown on the day of the event? This is important information you will need to pass onto the venue so everything is set up in time.

• What kind of space or stage do you need for your setup?

• How many people will you staff for my event?

• If the DJ scheduled for my event is unable to perform for some reason, do you have a backup/replacement available?

• Do you carry liability insurance? This usually only applies to production companies that supply lighting rigs, stages, etc.

• What is your refund policy if for some reason I need to cancel or alter my date?

If possible, try to make the time to meet your prospective DJs or the DJ company reps in person. That way, you can get a feel for who they are, what they can offer and how they might fit into your big day.

The best performers are booked well in advance, so be sure to book your DJ as early as possible.

— Jesse Faubert, Common Sound

2018 January Bridal Guide

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2018 January Bridal Guide

A bridal shower really isn’t complete without bridal-shower favours

I

t’s one of those occasions when you want to give your closest friends and family some kind of gift because you care about them — and because they care about you.

Those in the know about gifting say you should get the appropriate gift for the occasion. To do this, first determine the theme you want for your party.

Let’s explore the themes and some of the gifts that correspond well with them.

One popular shower theme is a tea party.

Tea is typically served to guests with various specialty pastries or mini-sandwiches.

Guests are sometimes asked to wear a hat and gloves, while the bride-to-be decks out in an Alice in Wonderland-style dress.

Another interesting theme is the room-of-the-house.

For example, guests are sometimes assigned different rooms in the house and are expected to bring gifts suited to that room.

As a guest, you might bring a gift that will make that room more comfortable and appealing. Another example would be a quality kitchen appliance for the kitchen of the house.

A variation of this theme for a wedding shower is the stock-the-bar version. Guests bring specialty alcoholic beverages to stock the newlyweds’ bar.

Another interesting choice is a wine-tasting theme. As the name implies, anything wine-related is suitable as a gift; however the gift options don’t need to be limited to the wine type.

You can buy silver heart wine stoppers, candles, mini-cocktail shakers or even wine glasses.

A lingerie-themed party is yet another popular choice.

The room is set with candles, chocolates and roses everywhere and could include red floor pillows for guests to sit on. Guests bring gifts of lingerie for the bride.

For a honeymoon-themed party, the focus is on the destination chosen by the couple. Wedding shower gifts for this theme would depend on the destination — but don’t have to be limited to this.

Guests can bring airplane luggage tags, black book city guides and even custom-labelled bottled water.

Another kind of bridal party theme is a pyjama party.

Guests come in their pyjamas and appropriate gifts would including such choices as monogrammed cosmetic cases, personalized slippers or personalized toiletry bags.

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Calculating the costs of your wedding

N

ewly engaged couples may experience an array of emotions when they sit down to plan their weddings. Some couples cannot wait to jump into planning and want to catalog every aspect of the process, while others may proceed with caution because they don’t know what to expect — particularly in regard to cost.

Many couples find it difficult to create their wedding budgets because they have no previous experience to draw on. The wedding planning advisor CostofWedding.com indicates the average wedding cost in the United States is $26,720, with most people spending between $20,000 and $34,000. Seventh Heaven Event Catering states that, in Canada, the average wedding costs around $30,000. Such costs can vary greatly depending on couples’ preferences, including where they hope to tie the knot.

By breaking down wedding expenses, couples can get a clearer picture of how much they may need to pay for their weddings and where they may need to cut costs: Reception site: According to The Knot,

a wedding planning resource, couples can expect their receptions to eat up the largest chunk of their wedding budgets. Wedding reception venues may cost between $10,000 and $15,000. The average price for catering per person is roughly $70.

Bar service may be around $2,000 for a three- to four-hour party. Some reception sites combine the room cost with the food and beverage costs, while others have à la carte fees.

Wedding planner: Many couples employ wedding planners to make planning their weddings easier. Wedding planners cost an average of $1,300, says Thumbtack, a company that matches professionals with people who require their services.

Cake: Wedding cakes tend to be

multitiered intricate designs, so they will cost more than birthday cakes. According to Statistics Brain, wedding dessert will come in about $390.

Music: The Knot says wedding bands cost about $3,500, which is more than twice as much as hiring a DJ ($1,200). Soloists or ceremony musicians may cost about $650.

Transportation: Limousines and other transportation prices vary depending on the vehicle(s) couples choose. The Knot notes that budgeting between $400 and $500 for transportation might be wise.

Photography and video: Preserving wedding-day memories costs about $2,800 for video and photography services, based on data from Statistics Brain.

The smaller details, such as accessories, gifts, officiant fees, stationery, spa service and favours can quickly add up as well. Couples should be sure to leave some wiggle room in their budgets for incidental expenses that may pop up.

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A one-stop-shop wedding venue

O

ne of the first questions that comes to mind when planning a wedding is: “Where are we going to get married?”

While choosing the perfect place to say “I do” is, of course, the most important part of this decision, there are many other things to keep in mind when thinking about the venue.

The weight of the entire weddingplanning process is put largely on the selected location because it is fixed and must be considered in nearly every decision while planning.

For instance, most weddings will include a ceremony and a reception.

As these events take place in two separate spaces, they typically result in down time between events and can effectively cut the celebration in half.

For this reason, many brides prefer to have their wedding at a one-stopshop venue that provides these spaces side by side so guests do not have to leave the festivity. A one-stop

wedding venue is a space designed specifically so that rather complicating wedding plans, it simplifies them.

Here are the three biggest advantages of choosing a one-stop venue:

The on-site wedding co-ordinator: This is one of the biggest advantages for the bride and groom and will ensure months of planning are less stressful. One-stop wedding venues will often have experienced coordinators who expertly work with their brides and grooms to create a complete wedding experience. Their knowledge of the space, local partners and trending ideas give couples the direction to plan their wedding.

No transportation issues:

When your guests check into their hotel, they can leave their car keys in the room and turn off their GPS. No navigating is necessary to find

the ceremony because it is just close in proximity, meaning they can just as easily wander back to their rooms at the end of the night. This convenience is invaluable to your guests and will also give you piece of mind knowing that everyone arrived home safe at the end of the night.

On-site photography:

Getting wedding pictures on the wedding day is extremely important for many couples. However, the hassle of interrupting the celebration to drive to a separate location where you can have a nice backdrop can be a bit of a buzz kill. Many one-stop venues will have gardens or other landscaped places for this purpose.

Put your wallet away, save money on that fancy limo and get back to your guests in time to socialize as husband and wife before the night kicks off.

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The last party as a single person

W

eddings can be expensive.

Various sources estimate the average cost of weddings to be anywhere from $26,000 to $31,000. Couples and their parents may bear the brunt of wedding expenses, but those who have accepted a role in the wedding party also can expect their share of expenses.

Taking into account gifts, wardrobes, makeup, bridal showers and travel — including getting to and from the bachelor/bachelorette party — bridal party members are on the hook for a lot of money when their friends or family members tie the knot.

Many men and women like to travel for their bachelor/bachelorette parties and cost-conscious bridal party members may be concerned about how expensive such parties can be. Pulling out all the stops can be exciting, but there’s no guarantee these types of parties will be more

friends to share a few laughs together.

Participants need not be professional singers to join in on the festivities;

enjoyable than simpler soirées.

Taking steps to control costs can help cost-conscious couples and their friends. The following are some affordable ideas that can be fun for all involved:

Camp out:

Bar or winery crawl:

Partygoers typically want to enjoy a night out on the town — and traveling from one establishment to another can be a fun way to do just that. Everyone invited can set themselves apart with a signature item (hat, T-shirt or coloured clothing) and make the rounds;

Attend a group event:

Group events include sporting events, concerts, theatre shows or a night at a comedy show. Investigate discounted tickets for large groups;

Belt out the tunes:

Get in touch with nature by enjoying a camping trip, complete with a campfire and a few brews. Spending time in the wilderness can restore focus and let stress melt away;

Poker or game night:

Groups can gather around the poker table to test their skills in poker and other card games. With some freeflowing beverages and snacks galore, games can get pretty animated;

Plan the Perfect Day!

Dinner party:

Open-mic nights at restaurants, bars and other establishments around town may make for a fun way for

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WELCOME, GUEST! Have a seat

R

eceptions may be big or small, lavish or casual.

Regardless of their size or style, receptions all share a common element: they will require couples to set up seating arrangement for guests. Even though assigned seating isn’t mandatory, selecting seats for a sit-down dinner makes things simpler and reduces confusion. Some reception venues may even require assigned seating so catering staff can service tables accordingly.

Seating guests can be tricky, but employing a few strategies can make the process go quickly and smoothly:

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Use a seating chart:

Organize family tables:

Tables for parents, grandparents and immediate family members of the bride and groom also are high priority.

Both families can be combined at one table or they can be separated into two tables. These tables should be the closest to the bride and groom.

A seating chart, whether it’s venuespecific or one couples makes themselves, is essential. If you are using a self-made chart, inquire with the venue about the shape of tables, how many guests each table can seat and the location of tables around the space;

Start with the wedding party table:

Consider mobility issues:

Couples can ease themselves into the task of seating by doing the easy tables first. The primary one is the wedding party table.

This traditionally can be a dais or a sweetheart table flanked by the wedding party. According to Martha Stewart Weddings, the table should be centrally located and the wedding couple should sit in the middle. A male-female pattern follows on either side of the couple, consisting of ushers, bridesmaids, best man and maid of honour. If much of the wedding party is already married, couples may opt to have the wedding party sit with their spouses instead of at the dais.

Next, seat guests who have specific needs at tables. Elderly guests may want to be away from the band, DJ or speakers. Guests in wheelchairs may need an accessible seat near the exit.

Get some help:

Enlist the help of parents to seat their friends and extended family members.

Parents may know best who gets along and who should be separated.

Seat dancers near the dance floor: To encourage dancing, place guests who tend to be lively close to the dance floor so others can see them getting up to dance and join in.

Couples can use apps, lists or selfmade charts to plot their receptionseating arrangements. Create place cards or a central chart so guests can find their seats promptly and easily.

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Selecting groomswomen and bridesmen

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ouples are increasingly bucking long-established trends to make weddings uniquely their own.

One of today’s more popular tradition-busting trends is not adhering to gender lines when couples select friends and family members for their wedding parties.

Until recently, the vast majority of wedding couples selected members of the same sex to fill the roles needed for the ceremony and reception.

For example, grooms would choose fellow males to serve as their groomsmen, while brides choose other females for their bridal parties. The wedding resource The Knot says the days of having men on one side and women on the other are gone. Coed wedding parties enable brides and grooms to have their favourite people by their side, regardless of gender.

According to the Daily Mail,

I

over the past year, weddings across Australia and other areas of the world have seen a rise in “groomswomen” and “bridesmen,” blurring the lines of wedding traditions. Couples have often said that choosing whomever they desire to stand beside them during the wedding is more authentic than separating people simply because of gender.

Take, for example, a groomto-be who is especially close to his sister. Such siblings may serve as bridesmaids, but grooms may want to have their sisters by their sides on their big day.

Foregoing gender roles may make for a unique, customized wedding.

However, it does create the question of what wedding party members will wear. Again, there are no firm rules, but co-ordination can make for better photos. A woman standing on the

groom’s side can co-ordinate with the colour of the bridemaid’s dresses, but wear a different style. Or she can wear a dress that matches the colour of the groomsmen’s suits. A man standing with the bride can have accessories — such as tie, vest and pocket square — that match bridesmaid dresses.

One of the areas where mixing and matching genders may get a tad sticky is with older, more traditional guests.

They may not understand the freedom of choice in the wedding. However, couples can discuss their bridal parties to select people who they think might prefer couples adhere to tradition.

Another possible snag is with bachelorette parties and bachelor parties. A solution to this dilemma may be to simply organize a getaway weekend for the entire bridal party and not separate parties for each side.

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Beware of these wedding scams A

wedding day is meant to be one of the most memorable in a person’s life for all of the right reasons.

And, as anyone knows, getting married isn’t cheap. Canadians spend an average of $30,000 to say, “I do.” The last thing anyone wants on their big day is to come to the sad realization they have been ripped off.

Scammers delight in taking advantage of those about to get hitched.

“The last thing anyone wants on their big day is to have it marred by a scammer,” said Evan Kelly, senior communications advisor for Better Business Bureau serving Mainland B.C. “Unfortunately, these crooks don’t care about how much you love someone and even vendors and wedding-related service providers get targeted this time of year.”

Here are some common wedding scams targeting couples:

Knock-off wedding dresses:

You found the dress of your dreams and the price is too good to be true. It’s a literal steal. These are often found as private sales online or through questionable websites.

They will make the claim that they are a real Vera Wang or Alfred Sung and even have the tags to prove it.

They’re nothing but a cheap imitation.

And you may not even get the dress you selected if it shows up at all.

Shop at reputable stores. Never wire money to someone you’ve never met. If you do purchase online, use a reputable portal like PayPal and use a credit card. Search the BBB database at bbb.org for reputable sellers.

Faux photographers:

A search for a photographer finds a dazzling website complete with the most breathtaking wedding pictures you have ever seen.

The photographer, whom you’ll struggle to meet in person, has no problem booking your time slot and demands, in some cases, full payment before snapping a shot.

Payment is usually in the form of a wire transfer. Lo and behold, they don’t show up for the day.

Ask friends for recommendations.

Ask photographer for references.

Research them online and read reviews. Never pay in full at the start and never wire money to someone you’ve never met. This goes for any wedding-related vendor. Search BBB database for reputable photographers.

Get everything in writing.

Gift grabber:

The polite term would be wedding crasher. Thieves scope out the wedding hall to learn where the presents are being stacked. While everyone is on the dance floor

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2018 January Bridal Guide

cutting it to Drake and Beyonce, they make off with the booty.

Many times, gifts are in the form of cash that is placed in a separate box.

This, too is a nice target for thieves.

Ask that guests not bring wrapped presents or money to the venue.

Ask guests to purchase items on a registry. Keep the money gift box as a centrepiece at the head table.

Make the gift table inaccessible to anyone but invited guests.

There are also schemes targeting event planners and vendors:

The accidental overpayment:

Your business is contacted by someone who wants a lavish wedding.

They send you a cheque for more than is necessary and they claim it was by accident.

They kindly ask you to deposit it, then send a specific amount to another vendor via email

transfer. The cheque bounces and your business suffers.

Be wary of people asking you to forward money to another vendor.

Be wary of clients sending you more than is required to fulfill the job.

Meet potential clients in person and at the chosen venue. Wait until cheques are cleared by your bank.

The would-be expo:

A nice website pops up claiming a wedding expo is coming to your town.

All you need to do is register and pay a small fee so your business can set up a booth and take part.

The expo doesn’t exist and now you’ve willingly given them your money.

Check references of the event planner. Connect with other vendors.

Check with the venue at which expo is to be held. Avoid paying in advance to take part if possible.

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After the bridal fair…

Y

ou have survived the 2018 Kamloops Bridal Fair and now likely have a bag full of brochures, business cards and samples.

The question is: where do you go from here?

After 14 years of hosting the event, organizers realize that as the one stop for all your wedding planning needs, keeping your thoughts and plans straight following a filling day can be a bit of a challenge.

To assist in this de-cluttering organization process, here are some suggestions how to get through it all:

Step 1: Piles and Piles:

Sit down somewhere comfortable and tip the bag upside down, emptying all the contents onto a table or the floor, just like Halloween candy. Start sorting all of the contents from your big pile into smaller piles. The piles can be arranged by industry (decorators, florists, bakeries, photographers, etc) or you can create your own piles such as want, need, garbage, etc. You know best how you process information, so split it the way that makes sense to you.

Step 2: Break Time:

Make a pot of tea, put on some fluffy socks and go watch an episode of your favourite show. Maybe bring some of those free samples with you. You need a break and should step away from the piles for a minute.

Step 3: Sort Stuff:

Now that your brain is out of “sort” mode, go back to your piles and start to go through the information in those piles.

Take a break time after each pile. You don’t want to overload your brain with information and you want to be able to actually take in what you are reading. It is easy to start reading words without really comprehending. This step can take a whole day or even a week. Spread it out if need be.

Your notepad will come in handy here; when sorting this stuff, note what companies stood out to you or ones you spoke to and on whom you might want to do some more research.

Step 4: Research:

Pull out your laptop and check out websites of vendors that seem like they will offer what you are looking for. But do not throw out any of the information yet.

Keep it just in case you decide to go back to it.

You will notice a lot of vendors will offer pricing on their websites. This will help you to start comparing prices. If they don’t have pricing, you can contact them to get details, but don’t set up a meeting until you have finished your research and comparisons. However, make sure you are comparing apples to apples and not apples to oranges. One of the biggest mistakes that can be made when comparing is assuming that something is the same. Make note of

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items that are not included with one package or product, but that is included with the other. This will help you determine if the packages or products are actually similar.

Step 5: Budget:

You are almost there. There is just more step before contacting the vendors. At this point, you have likely whittled down your piles to a few select vendors and packages or products they offer. Before contacting them, check your budget. Do all of these vendors fit within your budget? Do they offer product or packages that can fit within your budget? It would be terrible to fall in love with one of the packages or products, only to find out there is no way you can afford it.

Step 6: Contact:

Once you have determined which vendors will work with your budget, it is time to start contacting them to arrange meetings. After all your research, you are prepared to ask questions and you likely know what you are looking for. The meetings will be successful because you have investigated and have a good idea of what you want, what the competitors are offering and the questions you have.

Good luck and remember, this is your day, so make it special to you.

— Jenn Pallett, events and catering co-ordinator at the TRU Conference Centre

Create a home you love with Canada’s Gift Registry 24/7 Access

You can create and manage your Gift Registry any time, anywhere simply by visiting us online at thebay.com/registry.

Brands You Love

Each season, we source new products from top brands around the world. We work hard to ensure that your registry has all the essential collections so you can create a home you love.

Exclusive Offers & Events

As Hudson’s Bay Gift Registrants, you are eligible for special discounts, offers and promotions.

Easy Gift-Giving

Guests can shop online or in store at any of our coast-to-coast locations.

Worthwhile Rewards

With virtually every purchase, your Hudson’s Bay MasterCard® or Hudson’s Bay Credit Card can be used to earn valuable points.

Protected Gifts

By purchasing the Hudson’s Bay Total Guard protection plan, your furniture, mattresses, appliances and jewellery are covered against life’s little mishaps.

Years Of Experience No one knows our products better than our consultants.

ABERDEEN MALL | 250.372.8271 | REGISTER IN STORE OR ONLINE AT THEBAY.COM/REGISTRY

Published by KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK

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Saying ‘I do’ to matrimony advice

When you tie the knot, you are connected forever.

Here is some sage advice from a diverse collection of minds to keep the marriage strong.

“A happy marriage is the union of two good forgivers.”

— Robert Quillen

“Marriage is our last, best chance to grow up.”

“My advice to you is to get married. If you find a good wife, you’ll be happy; if not, you’ll become a philosopher.”

“To love someone deeply gives you strength. Being loved by someone deeply gives you courage.”

— Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu

“To keep your marriage brimming, With love in the loving cup, Whenever you’re wrong, admit it, Whenever you’re right, shut up.”

— Ogden Nash

“There is no more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage.”

— Martin Luther

“A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.”

“Who, being loved, is poor?”

— Oscar Wilde

— I Corinthians 13:7

“I didn’t marry you because you were perfect. I didn’t even marry you because I loved you. I married you because you gave me a promise. That promise made up for your faults. And the promise I gave you made up for mine. Two imperfect people got married and it was the promise that made the marriage. And when our children were growing up, it wasn’t a house that protected them; and it wasn’t our love that protected them – it was that promise.”

“All married couples should learn the art of battle as they should learn the art of making love. Good battle is objective and honest — never vicious or cruel.

Good battle is healthy and constructive, and brings to a marriage the principles of equal partnership.”

— Ann Landers

“You come to love not by finding the perfect person, but by seeing an imperfect person perfectly.”

“Before you marry a person, you should first make them use a computer with slow Internet to see who they really are.”

— Will Ferrell

“Where there is love, there is life.”

— Dr. Seuss

“My husband and I have never considered divorce. Murder sometimes, but never divorce.”

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“Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.”

— Thornton Wilder

— Mignon McLaughlin

— Joyce Brothers

— Friedrich Nietzsche

— Joseph Barth

— Socrates

“You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.”

“It is not a lack of love, but a lack of friendship that makes unhappy marriages.”

— Mahatma Gandhi

“Sexiness wears thin after a while and beauty fades, but to be married to a man who makes you laugh every day, ah, now that’s a real treat.”

— Joanne Woodward

— Sam Keen

“Chains do not hold a marriage together. It is threads, hundreds of tiny threads which sew people together through the years.”

— Simone Signoret

“It is not a lack of love, but a lack of friendship that makes unhappy marriages.”

— Friedrich Nietzsche

2018 January Bridal Guide

Memories of a Lifetime Begin at Safeway

You deserve the very best on your special day.

At Safeway, our talented staff are ready to make your day a beautiful memory starting from the cake to the flowers.

OUR GREAT DEPARTMENTS INCLUDE:

BAKERY • MEAT & SEAFOOD • DELI • PRODUCE • FLORAL • PHARMACY • GAS BAR

Helping Canadians eat better, feel better, do better 750 Fortune Drive, Kamloops, BC 250.376.4129 Published by KAMLOOPS THIS WEEK

945 W Columbia St., Kamloops, BC 250.374.2811

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Where does your story begin?

Say “I do” with the TRU Conference Centre. We have everything you need to create the wedding you’ve been dreaming of.

Complete Wedding Packages Ceremonies Receptions Full Service Catering Theme & Custom Menus

Plated or Buffet Dinners Loft Suite Accommodations Horticulture Gardens Modern Venue Space

For more information and venue tours, contact our wedding specialists.

We look forward to being part of your happily ever after!

conferencecentre@tru.ca | tru.ca/weddings