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The weather couldn’t steal their moment OVER 25 LOCAL

GREATER VANCOUVER | 2025

VOWS IN THE RAIN

❱❱ YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE BEFORE YOU SAY I DO ❱❱ VENUES THAT INSPIRE YOUR DREAM DAY

a stunning venue.Withover35,000sq.ft.of versatiles pace,ourexpert teamwill bringyourvisiontolife

“The‘DressingFloral”lineisanode to theart of guipurelace—where exclusiveﬂoralmotifs anddelicate embroideryintertwineingraceful, femininesilhouettes.Designed for thebride,cherishedbeyondthe weddingday.

Reﬁned, Romantic, Unforgettable.

Photo by Ashley Ludwig

Features

BE INSPIRED BY COASTAL, PARISIAN & TUSCAN

From shores to villas, romance awaits

EFFORTLESS BRIDESMAID ELEGANCE

Dresses made to last beyond the aisle

COME RAIN OR COME SHINE

An outdoor wedding full of joy and love

VENUES THAT INSPIRE

From mountains to beaches and beyond

FIVE 2025 BRIDAL TRENDS

Jewelry to complete your bridal look

BEFORE I DO: THE BRIDES PREP PLAYBOOK

A modern bride’s ultimate prep guide

TEAMMATES FOR LIFE

When teammates become soulmates

VENDOR DIRECTORY

Trusted vendors to bring your vision to life

FROM THE COVER

Couple Alex and Brianna, whose story is featured on page 14, photographed by Bee Chalmers: www.beechalmers.com.

10 36 41 33 29 22 14 13

The Coconut Creative

TIME TO GET

In our latest issue of Hitched, memorable marriage proposals are sealed with engagement rings that are decidedly diﬀerent, and bridal style is inspired by travel, even if it’s just the armchair variety. Bridesmaids are dressed in chic gowns they’re delighted to wear the day of, and beyond.

IRL cover couple Brianna and Alex are already ‘hitched’ and share their wedding day just-roll-with-it attitude, while ‘marrieds’ Heather and Kat remind us to stay in the moment.

Our pages are ﬁlled with inspo for every facet of your wedding planning, thanks for joining us - and congratulations!

I’ve been a wedding magazine editor many times in my career, and you’d think creating that type of content might get old - but for me, it doesn’t. It’s all about love, and that’s always inspiring.

Catherine

Editor/Writer | Hitched Magazine

Catherine Dunwoody

Dunwoody

Real-life couple Kat and Heather, whose story is featured on page 36. Photo: Kate Paterson Photography

travel

Two-piece burnout silk gown by Grace Loves Lace, price upon request

Chanel mini bag, price upon request

Love My Lips Caring Lip Oil, by Lise Watier,

Bowed bridal shoes by Bella Belle, $550

Hat by Queen Bee Millinery

Strapless lace gown by Oksana Mukha, price upon request

$28

L’Occitane Almond Shimmering Oil, $69

Cream eye shadow by Charlotte Tilbury, $47.50

Chanel ankle boots, price upon request

Sandals by Valentina Rangoni, price upon request

Voce Viva Intensa eau de parfum by Valentino, at Sephora, $165

Clutch bag by Cult Gaia, from Holt Renfrew, $420

Gown by Rita Vinieris, price upon request

Guerlain Rouge G reﬁllable matte lipstick at Sephora, $52

Earrings, bangles, and rings, Pandora, $175-$550

BRIDESMAID STYLE

Gone are the days of poofy, over-the-top gowns for your girls. Today, brides want their bridesmaids to look chic, stylish and in dresses they can wear again – and most certainly will.

By Catherine Dunwoody

"Our dresses are meant to last long after the wedding,” says Dina Gundy, Senior Director of Marketing at Jenny Yoo, a go-to designer known for redeﬁning bridesmaid looks since 2002. “With minimalist and coolgirl designs that are crafted from luxury fabrics, our red-carpet ready styles are frequently worn to press engagements, galas, special events, as a wedding guest, and more.”

This season, there are numerous collections within the brand that truly stand out, and one satiny shade in particular they’ve named Bronze, a nod to Pantone’s Colour of the Year - Mocha Mousse. Gundy loves the new styles including the “drapey Erin dress with arm coverage, plus strapless Cecile, bias-cut Landry, and the best-selling Wren dress with ruching.”

Jenny Yoo’s new floral print Chai colourway is in a skin tone flattering shade that’s like a peachy nude that seems to look great on everyone. The fabric shows up in four different styles that “look beautiful in a mismatched bridal party look,” says Gundy.

Matcha is a new creamy-pale green shade showing up in solids, ﬂoral and jacquard prints. Gown trends and special touches include vintageinspired strapless, sexy dropshoulders, and a high-necked gown with strategically placed draping across the tummy.

Inclusivity is more important than ever, with size ranges being much more realistic aiming to dress any bridesmaid. With sizes 0-26 available online, the brand “ensures the perfect and most ﬂattering ﬁt whatever your body type is, made to celebrate a woman's natural body curves, in any size.

Photos: Jenny Yoo Collection

A BC-WEDDING REALITY

By Catherine Dunwoody

To have and to hold, for better or worse…and come rain or come shine? That could have been a last-minute addition to the wedding vows Brianna and Alex exchanged during the downpour that took place at their outdoor nuptials last spring, but neither the couple nor their guests let inclement weather get in the way of their big day. ➞

Photos: Bee Chalmers

The outdoorsy couple chose the Fraser River Lodge as a picturesque setting and Brianna says “in the middle of the ceremony when the rain stopped and the clouds parted, Mount Cheam popped out of the background. Everyone put their umbrellas away at the same time and it was this really unique, beautiful moment.”

Brianna and Alex could be called childhood sweethearts, except they aren’t. They grew up together playing soccer in high school but weren’t friends. “Then we started playing on the same rec soccer team about six years ago and hit it off,” says Brianna. First date drinks at The Narrow “was comfortable and fun right from the get-go, and I think we both knew that there could be something special here.” ➞

NestledintheCanadianRocky MountainsbetweenCranbrook andFernie,British Columbia,sits a peacefullysecluded, luxurious ranch with no wiﬁ.The only connection we offer isbetween familyandfriends.BullRiverGuest Ranch isthe perfectvenue forintimateweddings,cabin-rentalgetaways, family reunions, corporateretreatsor romanticgetaways. Facilitytoursareavailablebyappointmentonly, pleasecallintobookyourappointment!

Now back to the rain-theme that seems to follow this happy couple. Alex secretly planned to pop the question on the beach before they embarked on a big trip to the Philippines, but “his plans were foiled due to weather,” laughs Brianna. Running out of time, Alex “dragged me down to Kits beach in the rain and wind and blurted out his proposal. It made for a really fun trip after because it felt like we were celebrating our engagement the whole time we were away.” Fast forward to their wedding planning, they made sure to get friends involved by asking Tess of Bears Blooms to do their flowers and another friend to officiate, making the day all the more personal for them. “We also wanted to make sure all of our friends and family knew just how much it meant to us that they were there, so we left everyone a handwritten individual note on each place setting,” adds Brianna. ➞

In that spirit, the couple scrapped the first dance alone and instead asked guests to hop on the dance floor while "Everbody" by the Backstreet Boys played. “It was truly a day filled with so much joy, love and laughter. Alex and I could feel the love and support radiating from all of our loved ones there with us.”

And any advice for other couples planning a somewhat risky outdoor wedding? “We were on the fence about doing the ceremony outside in the rain, but ultimately are so happy we did it that way and everyone was a great sport about getting a little rained on. Plan the day that you want.” ◆

Florist: Tess Atkins, @bears_blooms \\ Hair Stylist: Montana's Bridal Hair, @montanasbridalhair

Makeup Artist: Kayla Marie, makeupbykaylamarie_ \\ Music: That Awesome DJ Guy (James Proulx)

Wedding Dress: Rituals of Love Bridal \\ Groom's Suit: Minichiello Bespoke Couture \\ Venue: Fraser River Lodge

Breathtaking City-to-Sea Venues

OCEANFRONT VOWS ON A PUBLIC BEACH TO A MOUNTAINTOP “I DO” WITH SWEEPING VIEWS, VANCOUVER OFFERS A BACKDROP AS UNFORGETTABLE AS YOUR LOVE STORY. THINK SEA-TO-SKY ROMANCE, EACH OF THESE VENUES CAPTURES A DIFFERENT SIDE OF OUR CITY’S NATURAL BEAUTY AND TIMELESS CHARM.

By Catherine Dunwoody

Stanley Park Pavilion

Surrounded by Stanley Park’s gardens near downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park Pavilion oﬀers elegance, charm, and stunning forested views with ﬁve unique event spaces that make the perfect venue to elevate your celebration.

Photo: Christie Graham

Grouse Mountain

Say “I do” at the Peak of Vancouver— where breathtaking views, timeless romance, and expert planning come together to create the wedding day of your dreams.

The Wallace Venue

The Wallace Venue blends industrial elegance with waterfront charm, oﬀering panoramic views and a versatile space - the perfect place to get married on the North Shore.

Photo: jennifer armstrongphotography

Pinnacle Hotel

Say “I do” at Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier—where waterfront views, elegant ballrooms, custom packages, local cuisine, and top-tier AV create unforgettable North Shore celebrations.

Dundarave Beach DISTRICT OF WEST VANCOUVER

It is the perfect location for a nautical entrance. West Vancouver's mountains, endless sky, and blue waters of the Strait of Georgia unite to make the perfect backdrop for your special day. West Vancouver has the ideal outdoor space for you to exchange your "I do's". westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/special-events/weddings-parks

Photo: Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier

Photo: Cody Vong

Engaged

Athoughtfullycurated WeddingShow &ArtisanMarket producedby Vancouver’sfavouriteweddingplanningco. DreamGroupWeddings +Events.

Sunday January 25th

Thisisnotyourtypicalweddingshow! It’sVancouver’smostengagingand excitingweddingplanningexperience.Kickoffyourplanningjourneyinour

VenueDiscoveryLounge withamazing #engageddeal bookingincentives! Playwiththeflowers onourinteractive BouquetWall, enjoymini-makeoversinthe BridalBeautyLounge,discoveryourdreamdressinthe BridalStyleLounge, and chatoneononewithanincrediblelineupofhandselectedVendors!

EnjoydecadentHorsD’oeuvres,Cocktails,CakeSamples,Photobooth,Live Music,DJ,Gifts,DoorPrizes,Shoppingopportunities,plus achancetowin ourGrandPrizeHoneymoonGiveaway! V

5 IN BRIDAL JEWELRY trends

Classic, with a twist to bold, modern statements, bridal jewelry is evolving in exciting ways. Canadian designers are leading the charge with fresh takes on timeless traditions—think sapphire solitaires, layered bands, and dramatic earrings that make the walk down the aisle sparkle even brighter. Here are ﬁve of the biggest trends catching brides’ eyes right now.

By Catherine Dunwoody

1

STACKABLE WEDDING BANDS

Canadian jewellery designer Anne Sportun has specialized in unique bridal rings since the late 80s, and one peek at her website proves that stacked wedding bands in various designs are a trend that’s here to stay.

Narrow pave diamond band, 18k yellow gold, $3400 plus multi sapphire crown band, 18k yellow gold, $2050, both Anne Sportun.

STATEMENT EARRINGS

Your bridal style isn’t complete without earrings that keep pace with the image you’ve created, and the hairstyle you’ve chosen.

14k gold and diamond cocktail pearl earrings, $7,455, by Sydney Evan, from Holt Renfrew.

SAPPHIRE ENGAGEMENT RINGS

Vancouver-based designer Cathy Shen of Ma Folie says, “clients are asking about sapphires more than ever before.” Some couples are skipping the diamonds and going straight for engagement rings with coloured stones like teal, and green sapphires.

‘Swell’ pear sapphire solitaire ring in deep teal, 1.92 carat, 14k yellow gold, $6,685 by Ma Folie.

SOMETHING BLUE - BUT NEW

Canadian designer Dean Davidson is sought out for his timeless, bold pieces that speak to the bride who prefers dramatic over dainty.

The ‘knockout collar’ necklace with iridescent sky blue brilliantcut man-made gemstone and signature DD toggle, $395, by Dean Davidson.

EAST- WEST ENGAGEMENT RINGS

Erica Bianchini, creative director of Canadian brand Ecksand, says the name “refers to the orientation of the stone. Rather than set vertically (north-south) along the finger, the gem is placed horizontally, its longest sides running parallel to the band.”

Pear-cut yellow diamond in 14k yellow gold, $4645, shown with curved diamond band, both by Ecksand.

BEFORE I DO:

The Brides Prep Playbook

FROM SPA BLISS TO MEMORY-MAKING MOMENTS, HERE’S YOUR PRE-WEDDING PREP GUIDE

3 MONTHS OUT

Hair & Makeup Trials

Schedule your trials about three months before the wedding to take the guesswork out of your big day look. This timing gives you the chance to test diﬀerent hairstyles, makeup palettes, and accessories while still leaving enough time to tweak and reﬁne. Plus, it ensures your beauty team understands your vision—so when the day arrives, you can relax and simply enjoy the pampering.

1 MONTH BEFORE A Toast to Togetherness

Before the big day, take time to connect over lunch at JOEY Shipyards in North Vancouver. With panoramic water views and the Adult Happy Hour menu at your ﬁngertips, celebrate your mom, bestie, or closest conﬁdante. It’s a chance to unwind, laugh, and dream about the future while honoring the women who’ve been by your side through it all.

JOEY Shipyards, North Vancouver

Get wedding readywith ourtreatmentstohelp you look radiant,conﬁdentand ﬂawless on yourspecialday.

•Botox&DermalFillers

•LaserHairRemoval

•BodySculpting Treatments (withEmsculpt& Vanquish)

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• FaceSculpting (Emface&Exion)

•RedCarpet Facial

•BridalManicure&Pedicure

•Relaxing FullBodyMassage

•Morpheus8BurstandQuantumRF

•AlmaTEDhair restoration

1 WEEK BEFORE Wellness Reset

Encircled by Whistler’s oldgrowth rainforest and rugged Coast Mountain views, root yourself in complete silence and a digital detox while journeying through cycles of hot, cold and relaxation installations spread over 25,000 square feet.

Let Scandinave Spa Whistler defy your expectations of what relaxation looks and feels like with our completely immersive exploration of mind and body.

THE DAY BEFORE Creative Calm

On the eve of your wedding, permit yourself to slow down. Whether it’s a gentle yoga class, a journaling session, or simply setting aside time to breathe and reflect, finding calm in a creative way helps quiet nerves and set an intentional tone. This isn’t just about relaxation. It’s about grounding yourself so you can step into your wedding day feeling centered, joyful, and fully present.

Scandinave Spa, Whistler

Teammates for life

By Catherine Dunwoody

Can a women’s rugby team take credit for playing cupid? It seems they can. In 2018, members of North Vancouver’s Capilano Rugby Club made a deliberate choice not to accept new member and U.K. expat Kat’s Facebook invitation for a group getaway to the Sunshine Coast. Instead, they made room for teammate Heather who had accepted, nudging this team-trip instead into a twosome they hoped would turn romantic.

The kicker? Heather and Kat didn’t have feelings for each other. Yet. Already chatty at games and rugby training, the friends did become a couple. “As far as ﬁrst dates go, this one was pretty memorable,” laughs Heather. “For one, it lasted an entire weekend!"

Continued on page 39

Photos: Kate Paterson Photography

Amanda Reed

Teammates for life

Lots of fun dates followed, including adult nights at Science World, Granville Island (with stops at Dussa’s for cheese) and long walks. In 2022, Kat invited Heather to go with her on another trip to the Sunshine Coast and booked Heather’s dream bed and breakfast for the stay in Gibsons. Kat proposed with a little note asking, “will you marry me?” in a mug with flowers on the table, and a ring offered on bended knee.

The engaged couple started planning the wedding and chose Cecil Green Park House at UBC, as it “checked all of our logistical priorities, our budget, has great staff and is a beautiful space,” Kat says. The venue also appealed because the tables, chairs, and tablecloths were included, “so there is less planning with outside suppliers with some built-in décor.”

When it came to choosing bridal gowns, “as a two-dress wedding, we needed to make some precautions,” says Heather. “So, we enlisted Mel, Kat's bridesmaid (and our MC) to attend the dress shopping days for both of us to make sure that our dresses weren't the same, and that the shades of white didn't clash.”

The couple chose both traditional and fun personal touches like Earnest Ice Cream jars for centre pieces, and The Office theme song for their recessional music. Wedding co-ordinator Nicole of Above and Beyond “was absolutely magic,” says Kat. “Even when we accidentally locked ourselves and our photographer onto the roof after the ceremony exchanging our personal vows, by the time we realized the door was locked, Nicole appeared out of thin air to let us out (with a much-needed cup of coffee in hand for Heather).”

Kate Paterson Photography “captured all the big and small moments of the day so seamlessly that we didn't even notice her most of the time, but when we received our gallery, it was so full of all the special pieces of our day.”

If Heather and Kat could offer one word of advice to any couple planning a wedding, it would be to “really live the moment,” says Heather. “At one point we slipped outside and just stood together on the veranda looking in through the window to see everyone dancing and just having the best time - it was beautiful.” ◆

Wedding Planner: Above & Beyond \\ Photographer: Kate Paterson Photography \\ Hair & Make-Up: Beauty En Route

Florist: Budget Blooms \\ Cake: Cassandra Cake Co \\ Officiant: Young Hip & Married (Shalom)

Venue: Cecil Green \\ Catering: Sage \\ DJ: About Town Entertainment

ELOPEMENT PLANNER

SEA TO SKY OFFICIANT

604-788-1413 | seatoskyofﬁciant.com

Forget the big wedding, and escape to Squamish, where the mountains meet the sea. With years of expertise, I’ll handle every detail, bring in the best vendors, and guide you to breathtaking, hidden gem locations. My goal is simple: to make your day eﬀortless, so you can feel celebrated, soak in the scenery, and focus on marrying your best friend.

VENUE

LANDING AT BEACH HOUSE

778-960-6117 | thebeachhouserestaurant.ca/the-landing

Located on the second ﬂoor of our historic waterfront building, The Landing oﬀers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Burrard Inlet. With an elegant dining room, a fully equipped bar, and a private patio, this versatile venue provides the perfect backdrop for engagement parties, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, and unforgettable wedding ceremonies and receptions.

EVENTS

JEWEL & ROSE WEDDINGS AND EVENTS 604-808-2653 | jewelandrose.com

We are a boutique event planning company passionate about bringing each client’s story to life. Our specialty is designing seamless, personalized experiences from the first detail to the very final moment. Every celebration is tailored to reflect your vision, ensuring its distinctive and unforgettable. Services include Full Planning, Partial Planning, and Month-of/Day-of Coordination, customized to your needs.

VENUE

ECHO VALLEY RANCH

1.800.253.8831 | evranch.com

Nestled in a wilderness setting about 5 hours from Vancouver, Echo Valley Ranch & Spa oﬀers a breathtaking and intimate venue for small weddings, hosting up to 30 guests for rest, relaxation, and adventure. The ranch provides a stunning backdrop, from the Marble Mountains to the Cariboo grasslands, complemented by world-class spas and farm-fresh cuisine, ensuring a magical and unforgettable celebration.

VENUE

INN AT LAUREL POINT

1.800.663.76673 | laurelpoint.com

Say “I do” with panoramic harbour views at Inn at Laurel Point in Victoria. Our award-winning venue oﬀers indoor and outdoor spaces, personalized planning, and custom cake tastings. Whether it’s an intimate garden ceremony or a grand waterfront celebration, we’ll help you create a wedding that’s eﬀortlessly elegant—and unforgettable.

VENUE/ACCOMMODATION

PINNACLE HOTEL AT THE PIER 604.566.8228 | pinnaclepierhotel.com

Prime waterfront location in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District, Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier oﬀers breathtaking views and versatile event spaces for up to 350 guests. Couples enjoy in-house catering, customizable menus, and the support of dedicated wedding specialists. With stunning backdrops and exceptional service, it’s a seamless choice for memorable celebrations.

LINGERIE STORE

ROMANTIQUE LINGERIE

604-926-2222 | romantiquelingerie.ca

West Vancouver’s ﬁnest lingerie boutique, specializing in the world's most elegant and luxurious brands. From delicate lace bras to everyday essentials with a focus on exceptional quality and impeccable ﬁt. Romantique Lingerie isn’t just about what you wear; it’s about how you feel when you wear it. Familyowned and operated for over 30 years along the waterfront in Ambleside.

VENUE

UBC’S ROBERT H. LEE ALUMNI CENTRE alumnicentre.ubc.ca/weddings

Experience reﬁned West Coast luxury at UBC’s Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre. Designed for versatility, the venue accommodates up to 280 guests with seamless ceremony/reception transitions.A curated list of exceptional caterers ensures your celebration is as unique as you are. Discover how this modern space can elevate your wedding at alumnicentre.ubc.ca/weddings.

CONTINUED

VENUE

TERMINAL CITY CLUB

604-488-8625 | tcclub.com/weddings

In the heart of downtown Vancouver, Terminal City Club is a premier private club and one of the city’s best-kept wedding secrets. Elegant ballrooms, sparkling chandeliers, and mountainview patios provide an atmosphere of timeless glamour for both ceremony and reception. Let our award-winning culinary experts and attentive banquet team craft an unforgettable celebration on your special day.

WEDDING OFFICIANT

SEA TO SKY OFFICIANT

604-788-1413 | seatoskyofﬁciant.com

Why wait for cocktail hour to celebrate? Your ceremony is the heart of your wedding - the moment you come together in marriage - and it should feel like you! Sea to Sky Officiant offers sweet + simple ceremonies or fully custom scripts that reflect your unique love story. Fun, heartfelt, warm, and modern ceremonies that keep you and your guests engaged, smiling, and truly present!

JEWELRY

STITTGEN FINE JEWELRY

604-925-8333 | stittgen.com

Stittgen Fine Jewelry represents timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. With over 70 years of tradition and expertise, they’ve mastered the art of transforming personal stories into exquisite, one-of-a-kind treasures. More than just jewelry, each piece reﬂects your unique journey, style, and the moments that matter most. When it comes to exceptional creations, why settle for anything less? Let the magic begin.

WEDDING PLANNER

DREAMGROUP WEDDINGS + EVENTS

604-537-3575 | dreamgroup.ca

DreamGroup is a celebrated planning company known for its attentive planning style, superior vendor connections, and creating successful wedding experiences that exceed expectation. Our expertise in planning, vendor relationships, and reputation for excellence will be just a few of the things you come to love about us. Visit the website or drop us an email to get in touch!