The Wedding Ring ONTARIO Spring Summer 2014

{ ONTARIO } SPRING/SUMMER 2014 Vol 7 No 2

MAGAZINE | WEBSITE | COMMUNITY

11 LOCAL REALITY WEDDING STORIES INSPIRATION BOARD STYLE STORIES:

TEAR THEM OUT & SAVE YOUR FAVS!

A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITE THINGS WEDDING TRENDS MUKLUKS, MIDNIGHT PHOTOSHOOTS & CHINA AT YOUR WEDDING

DESTINATION WEDDINGS: INSIDER TIPS YOU SHOULD KNOW

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO

BRIDAL SHOW CALENDAR

ONTARIO

Inside this issue...

p25

features

BRIDAL SHOW CALENDAR p53 Bridal shows & events across Southwestern Ontario ~ dates, times & details

PHOTO, ABOVE: www.sheilabraam.com

BRIDAL GUIDE TO LOCAL EXPERTS p6 to 8 The who’s who of Southwestern Ontario's best weddings

FASHION & DESIGN INSPIRATION p33 to 41 ”Rustic glam garden party” and “Antique & elegant in the outdoors”

DESTINATION WEDDINGS p42 to 44 Destination Wedding Ideas You’ll Love, Planning Tricks for the Destination Bride & Tips from a destination wedding expert

WEDDING TRENDS & IDEAS p46 & 47 From Manitobah Mukluks and midnight photoshoots to where and how to use vintage china...

OUR FAVOURITE THINGS p49 to 51 From favours and gifts to bling and beyond!

WEDDING-WORTHY HALLS p56 to 60 Options, catering & bar details, indoor & outdoor spaces across Southwestern Ontario

PRO DJS SHARE THEIR FAVOURITE SONG LISTS p9

First Dance Ballads, Songs for Introducing the Newlyweds, Cake-Cutting Songs

reality wedding stories p11to29 GUELPH COUPLE LOOKS LOCAL FOR ULTIMATE STYLE p12 HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS p13 CTV NEWS TORONTO CO-ANCHOR SAYS I DO IN SCOTTISH STYLE p16 SWEET LAKESIDE CEREMONY p17

p37

1 LOVE STORY & 700 GUESTS p19

PHOTO, ABOVE: www.lynismael.com | PHOTO, BELOW: www.calvinphotography.com

A SENTIMENTAL WEDDING DAY IN RURAL ONTARIO p20 COUNTRY CLUB GALA p21 INTIMATE DIY VINEYARD WEDDING DAY p24 HISTORICAL BEAUTY p25 RUSTIC ROMANCE p28 ONCE UPON A TIME p29 TheWeddingRing.ca is sponsored in part by...

p28

SPRING/SUMMER 2014 PUBLISHED BY Wedding Ring Inc. 912 Foxbrook Crt., Kitchener ON, N2P 2W1 519.568.8007 | 1.877.203.3338 | brides@theweddingring.ca The Wedding Ring Magazine [Ontario Edition] is published two times, yearly: January and August. This is The Wedding Ring’s 14th [Ontario Edition] magazine.

www.theweddingring.ca/magazine

MAGAZINE STAFF Jennifer Goulden | jag@theweddingring.ca

Co-founder | Editor-in-Chief | Layout & Advertisement Design

Anne Warren | anne@theweddingring.ca

Co-founder | Director of Sales | Associate Features Editor

Rhianna Jackiw | rhianna@theweddingring.ca

Senior Editor & Writer | Layout & Design Assistant | Associate Features Editor

Kristen Sullivan | kristen@theweddingring.ca Media Staff | Content Coordination | Assistant Copy Editor

COVER PHOTO Lyn Ismael: Evocative Imagery of Love Stories (♥) www.lynismael.com Male Model: Eric Van Schip Female Model: Jenessa Van Schip

THANK YOU!

Thank you to the brides, wedding experts and associate writers and editors who have contributed to this issue of The Wedding Ring Magazine.

Numerous wedding professionals have contributed expert tips, retail or rental products, popular décor and/or photography services for the various features in this issue. Each professional is credited in their respective feature article. The statements, opinions and points of view expressed do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, advertisers or Wedding Ring Inc. Photographs are submitted to Wedding Ring Inc. by vendors for the purpose of publishing online and/or in print and are used with permission. © 2014 Wedding Ring Inc. Contents copyrighted. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without written permission from Wedding Ring Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Printed in Canada. ISSN 1920-499X

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For The Ring's online media kit: www.theweddingring.ca/for-vendors.

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ON LOCAL WEDDING PROFESSIONALS IN THE RING ACCESSORIES & SHOES URBAN BRIDE 1167 King St. East, Kitchener, ON N2G 2N3 519.722.9206 | urbanbride@gto.net www.myurbanbride.com KW REVIEWS

DECORATORS, DESIGNERS CDEVINE WEDDING DESIGN 519-348-4191 | 519-801-5671 info@devineweddingdesign.ca www.devineweddingdesign.ca

ALTERATIONS ELLEN & COMPANY RR# 6, St. Marys, ON 519-229-6395 | tshute@quadro.net LONDON REVIEWS

BEAUTY: SPAS, HAIR & MAKE-UP COURTNEY LACKNER ERIKA SNYDER EVOLUTION CONCEPTS IN HAIR & SPA FLAWLESS TOUCH STUDIO JACHA SONIA RYAN & CO

LONDON REVIEWS

CAKES JIRINA'S BAKERY

FRESH LOOK DESIGN

CATERING CUSTOM CUISINE 1260 Gainsborough Rd, London, ON 519-963-1426 | events@customcusinecatering.ca www.customcuisinecatering.ca LONDON REVIEWS TASTE FINE FOODS 599 Arkell, Guelph, ON 519-823-6700 | goodfood@tastefinefoods.ca www.tastefinefoods.ca GUELPH REVIEWS

TO SUIT YOUR FANCY 519-488-5079 | jackie@tosuityourfancy.com www.tosuityourfancy.com LONDON REVIEWS THE CREATIVE BRIDE DECORATING DREAMS THE EVENT FIRM JULIA WEDDINGS NOW & ALWAYS WEDDING DREAM DJs BRAD HOWELL ENTERTAINMENT SERVICES 232 Auden Road, Guelph, ON 519-760-2558 | bhes@rogers.com www.howellentertainment.com GUELPH REVIEWS

BINGEMANS CHAPELS HISTORIC ELLIS PIONEER CHAPEL 6705 Ellis Road, Cambridge, ON 519-824-4679 | ellischapel@sympatico.ca www.ellischapel.ca CAMBRIDGE REVIEWS THE ROSE CHAPEL 6675 Burtwistle Lane, London (Hwy 4 & 401) 519-652-6022 | info@rosechapel.ca www.rosechapel.ca LONDON REVIEWS DANCE LESSONS ELEMENT DANCE ARTS 519-700-5678 | info@elementdancearts.com www.elementdancearts.com CAMBRIDGE REVIEWS

A&M SOUNDS DISC JOCKEY SERVICE ALLEGRO PRODUCTIONS MAXIMUM MUSIC MUSIC CENTRAL ENTERTAINMENT OLYMPIC SOUND FAVOUR IDEAS THE WEDDING SHOPPE WEDDINGFAVOURS.CA FLORAL DESIGNERS BELMONT FLOWERS JIM ANDERSON FLOWERS LIMITED

6 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

GOLF & COUNTRY CLUBS CUTTEN FIELDS 190 College Ave. E., Guelph, ON 519.824.2650 x.229 | info@cuttenfields.com www.cuttenfields.com GUELPH REVIEWS THE OAKS GOLF CLUB 1552 Gideon Drive in Delaware, ON 519.652.1760 | jim.evans@oaksgolf.com www.oaksgolf.com LONDON REVIEWS PINE KNOT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 5421 Hamilton Road, Dorchester, ON 519-268-2986 | events@pineknotgolf.com www.pineknotgolf.com LONDON REVIEWS STRATFORD COUNTRY CLUB 53 Romeo Street North, Stratford, ON 519-271-4212 jessie@stratfordcountryclub.com www.stratfordcountryclub.com K-W REVIEWS SUNNINGDALE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 465 Sunningdale Rd W, London, ON 519-660-8063 courtney@sunningdalegolf.com www.sunningdalegolf.com LONDON REVIEWS FIREROCK GOLF CLUB GOWNS & BRIDAL ATTIRE CRÈME COUTURE 55 Wyndham St, Guelph, ON 519-763-2011 info@cremecouture.ca www.cremecouture.ca GUELPH REVIEWS LA CRÈME 1364 King St. North in St. Jacobs, ON 519-664-3275 lacreme01@hotmail.com www.lacremedecor.com K-W REVIEWS SEW STYLISH WEDDING WORKS 125 Thames Street South, Ingersoll, ON 519-485-7097 | sewstylish@on.aibn.com www.sewstylishweddingworks.com LONDON REVIEWS

JIRINA'S BRIDAL PAM CHORLEY’S FASHION CRIMES HOTELS FOR GUESTS & THE HONEYMOON BOARDWALK HOMES EXECUTIVE GUEST HOMES 519-591-9323 | info@boardwalkhomes.ca www.boardwalkhomes.ca K-W REVIEWS HAMPTON INN & SUITES BY HILTON INVITATIONS, STATIONERY DOUBLETAKE INVITATIONS SCRIBES' NOOK INC. STEPHITA WEDDING INVITATIONS AND STATIONARY UPTOWN DESIGNS LINGERIE LA FEMME PRIVÉE 718 Belmont Avenue W, Belmont Village, Kitchener, ON 519-603-0142 | info@lafemmeprivee.com www.lafemmeprivee.com K-W REVIEWS MINISTERS & OFFICIANTS FEELINGS FROM THE HEART WEDDING CHAPEL & OFFICIANTS 519-743-3101 www.theweddingchapel.on.ca K-W REVIEWS CELEBRATE LOVE & LIFE WEDDINGS LONDON WEDDING MINISTER PASTORAL SERVICES OF GUELPH WEDDINGS OF LOVE MUSICIANS THE LEITH QUARTET PHOTOGRAPHERS ALICIA RILEY PHOTOGRAPHY 226-268-0430 | alicia.riley@gmail.com www.aliciariley.com LONDON & KW REVIEWS

GARY’S LENS PHOTOGRAPHY 519-575-3282 gary@garyslens.ca www.garyslens.ca K-W REVIEWS HRM PHOTOGRAPHY 519-936-8977 | info@hrmphotography.com www.hrmphotography.com LONDON REVIEWS INLIGHT PHOTO STUDIO 519-221-FOTO inlightphotostudio@gmail.com www.inlightphotostudio.com K-W REVIEWS JESSICA LIN PHOTOGRAPHY 416-806-1585 | photo@jessicalin.ca www.jessicalin.ca TORONTO REVIEWS LATTE PRODUCTIONS PHOTOGRAPHY 519-745-8368 | info@latteproductions.ca www.latteproductions.ca K-W REVIEWS SPIRITS INTRIGUED PHOTOGRAPHY 20 Wolfe's Court, Kitchener, ON (519) 721-5468 | alex@sipimage.com www.sipimage.com K-W REVIEWS TJ DURNAN PHOTOGRAPHY 519-588-1295 | todd@tjdurnan.com www.tjdurnan.com K-W REVIEWS ANNE EDGAR PHOTOGRAPHY CALVIN PHOTOGRAPHY CAMERON SHAVER PHOTOGRAPHY CAPTIVATING IMAGES PHOTOGRAPHY CAPTURED SOUL PHOTOGRAPHY DUDEK PHOTOGRAPHY DYNAMIC VISIONS PHOTOGRAPHY FRANCES MORENCY PHOTOGRAPHY HERAKOVIC PHOTOGRAPHY LTC PHOTOGRAPHY LYN ISMAEL: EVOCATIVE IMAGERY OF LOVE STORIES LUXE PHOTOGRAPHY MANGO STUDIOS ONE GREAT DAY PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOBOX PHOTOGRAPHY SHEILA BRAAM PHOTOGRAPHY STAN SWITALSKI PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO CHRIS TWO TONE STUDIOS

• Are award winners • Have multiple degrees & accreditations • Are members of selective organizations • Do regular charity work • Are teachers & mentors in their craft • Have appeared in television news & wedding segments

RECEPTION LOCATIONS BEST WESTERN® PLUS LAMPLIGHTER INN 591 Wellington Road South, London, ON 519-681-7151 | salesmgr@lamplighterinn.ca www.lamplighterinn.ca LONDON REVIEWS BEST WESTERN® PLUS STONERIDGE INN AND CONFERENCE CENTRE 6675 Burtwistle Lane, London (Hwy 4 & 401) 519-652-6022 | hotelinfo@stoneridgeinn.com www.stoneridgeinn.com LONDON REVIEWS BINGEMANS 425 Bingemans Centre Drive, Kitchener, ON 519-744-1555 | ethomson@bingemans.com www.bingemans.com K-W REVIEWS CAMBRIDGE BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY 2500 Kossuth Road, Cambridge, ON 519-653-1234 x 112 weddings@cambridgebutterfly.com www.cambridgebutterfly.com CAMBRIDGE REVIEWS CONCORDIA CLUB 429 Ottawa Street South, Kitchener, ON 519-745-5617 ext. 101 ruth.rajna@concordiaclub.ca www.concordiaclub.ca K-W REVIEWS DELTA LONDON ARMOURIES 325 Dundas Street, London, ON 519-679-6111 | bemrich@deltalondon.ca www.deltalondonarmouries.com LONDON REVIEWS ELM HURST INN 415 Harris Street, Ingersoll, ON 519-485-5321 specialevents@elmhurstinn.com www.elmhurstinn.com LONDON REVIEWS

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 7

♥ = INTERVIEWED, RESEARCHED & REVIEWED @ WWW.THEWEDDINGRING.CA

pat@theweddingchapel.on.ca

AMBER RICHMOND PHOTOGRAPHY 519-856-0667 | amber@amberrichmond.com www.amberrichmond.com GUELPH REVIEWS

guide to reviews

BEST FOR BRIDE

guide to reviews

ELSIE PERRIN WILLIAMS ESTATE 101 Windermere Road West, London, ON 519-432-7961 www.elsieperrinwilliamsestate.com LONDON REVIEWS

WATERLOO INN CONFERENCE HOTEL 475 King Street North, Waterloo, ON 519-884-0220 | wdallner@waterlooinn.com www.waterlooinn.com K-W REVIEWS

GOLF'S STEAK HOUSE & SEAFOOD 598 Lancaster Street West, Kitchener, ON 519-579-4050 | george@golfssteakhouse.com www.golfssteakhouse.com K-W REVIEWS

ANCASTER MILL ARCADIAN COURT THE ARTS & LETTERS CLUB ATLANTIS PAVILION BELLAMERE WINERY & EVENT CENTRE BERKELEY FIELD HOUSE BOB RUMBALL MANOR CAMBRIDGE MILL THE CARLU CASA LOMA DELTA CHELSEA DELTA GUELPH HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTRE DUFFERIN HALL ENOCH TURNER SCHOOLHOUSE ESTATES OF SUNNYBROOK FANSHAWE PIONEER VILLAGE FANTASY FARM FOREST CITY NATIONAL GOLF CLUB THE GEORGE BROWN HOUSE GRAYDON HALL MANOR HART HOUSE HAUSER HALL HESSENLAND COUNTRY INN HILTON LONDON LIBERTY GRAND MARIPOSA CRUISES MILLER LASH HOUSE NITHRIDGE ESTATE WEDDINGS & EVENTS THE OLD MILL ONTARIO HERITAGE CENTRE PALAIS ROYALE REBEL CREEK GOLF CLUB RENAISSANCE TORONTO SPENCER’S AT THE WATERFRONT ST. GEORGE BANQUET HALL ST. LAWRENCE HALL STONE WILLOW INN TEATRO CONVENTION & EVENT CENTRE TORONTO BOTANICAL GARDEN

GROSVENOR LODGE 1017 Western Road, London, ON 519-645-2845 | www.grosvenorlodge.com LONDON REVIEWS THE HOLIDAY INN KITCHENER-WATERLOO HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE 30 Fairway Road South, Kitchener 519-894-8512 amandakaufman@fortisproperties.com www.holidayinn.com/kitcheneron K-W REVIEWS IVEY SPENCER LEADERSHIP CENTRE 551 Windermere Road, London, ON 519-675-5529 | jclark@ivey.uwo.ca www.iveyspencerleadershipcentre.com LONDON REVIEWS LONDON CLUB 177 Queens Avenue, London, ON 519-434-6889, ext. 223 dunger@londonclub.com www.londonclub.com LONDON REVIEWS THE OAKS GOLF CLUB 1552 Gideon Drive in Delaware 519.652.1760 | jim.evans@oaksgolf.com www.oaksgolf.com LONDON REVIEWS THE WALPER HOTEL 519-745-4321 ext. 112 | 1-800-265-8749 cchapman@walper.com www.walper.com K-W REVIEWS

WHO WE ♥ AND WHY

TORONTO CENTRE FOR THE ARTS THE WATERLOT RESTAURANT & INN WESTIN HARBOUR CASTLE HOTEL WHISTLE BEAR GOLF CLUB WINDSOR ARMS HOTEL TENT RENTALS & ACCESSORIES BURKE'S TENT RENTALS 42056 Morris Rd RR 4, Brussels, ON 519-887-8287 | tents@burkestentrentals.com www.burkestentrentals.com GUELPH REVIEWS ROY-AL RENTALS & PARTY CENTRE 74 Dawson Rd. Guelph, ON 519-823-1881 | www.royalrentals.com GUELPH REVIEWS TRANSPORTATION A UNIVERSAL LIMOUSINE BRENTWOOD LIVERY GRANDEUR LIMOUSINE TUXEDOS & FORMAL WEAR COLLINS FORMAL WEAR 1-877-434-4184 Locations across Southwestern Ontario & Canada www.collinsformalwear.com REVIEWS IN ALL CITIES VIDEOGRAPHY DIRECTOR’S CUT VIDEOGRAPHY JJJ VIDEO PRODUCTIONS INC. WILLOW CREEK STUDIOS WEDDING PLANNERS HIGH GLOSS WEDDINGS STYLE & ELEGANCE WEDDING AND EVENT COORDINATION WINE MAKING VINTNER’S CELLAR WATERLOO 519-725-9463 vintnercellarwaterloo@hotmail.com www.vintnerscellarwaterloo.com K-W REVIEWS For full reviews (specialties, experience, prices, samples of work, bride interviews and more), simply go to www.theweddingring.ca, click on your city, and read reviews on local experts.

We’ve done the research so that brides don’t have to. Who does what and why we love them...

Options, specialties, pricing, samples of work, bride interviews and more... Read interviews and reviews or post one of your own!

8 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

FIRST DANCE BALLADS

INTRODUCING NEWLYWEDS

CAKE CUTTING SONGS

by Brad Howell Entertainment Services (♥) (www.howellentertainment.com)

By Rob Aitken, Music Central Entertainment (♥) (www.musiccentral.ca)

Allegro Productions is a family run business that has provided quality music lessons, wedding DJ services and entertainment for over 15 years in the Kitchener-Waterloo and surrounding areas.

Brad Howell Entertainment Services has over twenty years of experience, providing music to Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph and beyond.

Guaranteeing good music is big business for this renowned music and entertainment company.

Music Central Entertainment is based out of London Ontario and serves Southwestern Ontario.

1. A Thousand Years - Christina Perri

1. I Gotta Feeling - The Black Eyed Peas

1. I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch) - Four Tops

2. Make You Feel My Love - Adele

2. Thunderstruck - AC/DC

2. How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) - James Taylor

3. I loved Her First - Heartland

3. Another One Bites the Dust - Queen

3. L-O-V-E - Natalie Cole

4. Your Song - Ellie Goulding

4. Back in Black - AC/DC

4. Love And Marriage - Frank Sinatra

5. God Gave Me You - Blake Shelton

5. My Kinda Party - Jason Aldean

6. Then - Brad Paisley

6. I’m Too Sexy - Right Said Fred

7. I Won’t Give Up - Jason Mraz

7. Get the Party Started - Pink

8. You and Me - Dave Matthews Band

8. Let’s Get Ready to Rumble - Jock Jam Mix

9. Just a Kiss - Lady Antebellum

9. Celebration - Kool & The Gang

10. My Wish - Rascal Flatts

10. Bittersweet Symphony - The Verve

11. Everything - Michael Bublé

11. Crazy In Love - Beyoncé

12. Wanted - Hunter Hayes

12. All You Need Is Love - The Beatles

13. Little Things - One Direction

13. I’m Yours - Jason Mraz

14. Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que Sera, Sera) - Doris Day

14. Kiss Me - Ed Sheeran

14. Beautiful Day - U2

15. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough - Marvin Gaye &

15. Marry Me - Train

15. Feel So Close – Calvin Harris

Tammi Terrell

5. You’re My Best Friend - Queen or Renee & Jeremy 6. Build Me Up Buttercup - Foundations 7. Rainbow Connection - Weezer & Hayley Williams 8. Stuck Like Glue - Sugarland 9. Accidentally In Love - Counting Crows 10. Recipe For Love - Harry Connick Jr. 11. You Are The Best Thing - Ray LaMontagne 12. Sugar, Sugar - The Archies 13. That’s Amore - Dean Martin

♥ = INTERVIEWED, RESEARCHED & REVIEWED @ WWW.THEWEDDINGRING.CA

by Olivia Anderson, Allegro Productions (♥) (www.allegroproductions.ca)

reality wedding stories

REALITY WEDDING STORIES ♥ = INTERVIEWED, RESEARCHED & REVIEWED @ WWW.THEWEDDINGRING.CA

PHOTO: www.calvinphotography.com (♥)

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 11

GUELPH COUPLE LOOKS LOCAL FOR ULTIMATE STYLE Most of Candace & Luke’s wedding vendors were within a half kilometer of each other in downtown Guelph. This couple’s wedding sets the bar for going local while still keeping the elegance, personality and heart that are the signatures of the best wedding days.

FAVOURITE PLANNING EXPERIENCE: “What I experienced at Crème Couture (♥) was above and beyond anything I have ever seen on TV. The bridal consultants there make you feel like a princess. With one-to-one appointments and an entire room filled with beautiful dresses to yourself, choosing ‘the dress’ at Crème Couture was an experience I will never forget.” ~ Candace

“The venue was neutral and tastefully decorated... I knew I could place my own stamp on it. The menu selection they offered was outstanding... Our favorite part of our menu offering would have to be the characuterie plate (which was served after the salad and before the beef tenderloin) and the crème brûlée with compote berries... so delicious!” ~ Candace & Luke “Our wedding was planned by strolling through downtown Guelph! All vendors within a 0.5KM radius that we used include: Guelph Jewellers, Crème Couture (♥), Sweet Violets, Two Tone Studios (♥), Le Chat Noir and live band, ‘The Doubts’, who plays at Frank N Steins.” ~ Candace

BRIDE & GROOM: Candace & Luke Tessaro PHOTOGRAPHY: Two Tone Studios (♥) (www.2tonestudios.ca) WEDDING DATE: September 14, 2013 CEREMONY: St. Joseph’s Parish (Luke’s family church) RECEPTION LOCATION: Delta Guelph Hotel and Conference Centre (♥) www.deltahotels.com GOWN: Crème Couture (♥) (www.cremecouture.ca) GROOM’S SUIT: Custom suit from MADE (madeclothing.ca) CAKE: Cake Momma (http://christinaammendolia.wix.com/cakemomma)

12 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

FLORALS: Sweet Violets (www.sweetviolets.ca) HAIR & MAKE-UP: Fancy Face Inc. (www.fancyface.ca) STATIONERY: Sweet Little Sentiments (www.sweetlittlesentiments.com) SPENT THE LEAST ON: “Décor. We went 100% DIY on the décor... With family and friends enlisted, we created over 300 pinwheels which decorated every square inch of the reception hall.”

GUEST COUNT: 200 FAVOURS: Donations to the Parkinson Society in lieu of favours, in honour of both of Candace’s grandfathers.

FAVOURITE MEMORY: “Meeting each other in the church aisle for the first time… A feeling we will never forget!”

reality wedding stories

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS

Rachel & Matthew had a DIY wedding at Rachel’s family home. With a background in events, the bride and groom planned a day that would have guests feeling like they were coming home for dinner. They succeeded in creating a gorgeous, memorable day, shared with friends and loved ones.

MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT “We were able to take an otherwise plain, open backyard and transform it into an amazing picture perfect wedding that we will never forget.”

MORE of this Reality Wedding Story is online at www.theweddingring.ca!

The Family Tree (a huge oak tree from which countless family photos were hung) shared a lifetime of memories dating back to their childhood.

Live, classical guitar accompanied the ceremony. Rachel’s Dad’s best friend sang and played guitar for the father daughter dance. Matt’s cousin DJ’d the dance.

The Grandparent’s Table made it possible for Grandparents who’ve passed away, to be there in spirit.

“A DIY wedding at home means….. do it ALL yourself,” admits Rachel, however the day was stylish, seemless and exactly what they had hoped for.

BRIDE & GROOM: Rachel Theresa Ottenbrite-Carrine & Matthew Gideon Carrine PHOTOGRAPHY: Amber Richmond Photography (♥) (amberrichmond. com) WEDDING DATE: June 8, 2013 CEREMONY & RECEPTION LOCATION: The Guelph home of Rachel’s family FLORALS: Greta the Garden Coach (www.gretathegardencoach. com) TENT: Milton Tent Rental (miltontentrental.ca)

CATERING: Foodies Anonymous (www.foodiesanonymous.ca) STATIONERY: Cameron J Stewart Art/Design (http://mtcntr.prosite.com) BUDGET: $22,000 GUEST COUNT: 153 THEME: Rustic, relaxed and all about family.

COLOURS: Purple & green GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 13

CTV NEWS

T O R O N T O

CO-ANCHOR SAYS I DO IN SCOTTISH

ST YLE

CTV News Toronto’s Michelle Dubé and her Bay Street beau, Mark Ferguson, were wed in September 2013. They chose a venue they love, in the home town they love, and then filled it with friends, family and a touch of Mark’s Scottish roots.

MORE of this Reality Wedding Story is online at www.theweddingring.ca!

“We wanted to throw a great party for all of our loved ones.

We didn’t want anyone to have to wait for anything... We wanted the night to flow... And to provide wonderful food, drinks, music & fun for our guests!” ~ Michelle & Mark

THEME & DÉCOR: The kilts were the jumping off point for the theme and colours. The tartan is the Scottish National Tartan and is similar to the Ferguson family tartan. To complement the celtic colours, a neutral ivory colour was used in the décor, “with touches of sparkle from mirrors and candles.”

BIGGEST WEDDING CHALLENGE: “There is SO much involved in planning a wedding and by far, the biggest challenge for us was the guest list. We had a venue that was a certain size and a guest list that was quite another. It’s very hard to make everyone happy, but in the end, after many discussions, numerous compromises, and even a few tears… everything worked out wonderfully!”

MICHELLE’S FAVOURITE MEMORIES: “Everything from the wedding day is so vivid... The sheer happiness I felt and moments I shared with Mark were the best part. Finally reaching him at the end of the aisle (after 8 ½ years together and all that wedding planning!) was so wonderful; it’s a moment I will cherish forever.”

BRIDE & GROOM: Michelle Dubé and Mark Ferguson PHOTOGRAPHY: Mark O’Neill and Alex Urosevic (photographers who often shoot for CTV News) WEDDING DATE: September 21, 2013 CEREMONY: St. Ann’s Church in Ancaster. “It was a beautiful hometown church and just 1.3km from the reception!”

RECEPTION LOCATION: Hamilton Golf & Country Club in Ancaster (hgcc.ca) 3 TOP PRIORITIES: The venue (because it sets the tone for the party), the food/drinks, and the flow of the evening. Décor was also high on the list.

GUEST COUNT: 179 STATIONERY: Custom tartan invitations from Minted (minted.com), and then wax sealed with the Ferguson crest.

16 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

FLOWERS, DÉCOR, LINENS & RENTALS: FOS Decor Center (www.fosdecor.com) BRIDESMAIDS ATTIRE: Monique L’Huillier and Lela Rose gowns from White Toronto (whitetoronto.com) GROOM & GROOMSMEN ATTIRE: Kilts from Cairngorm Scottish Imports on Avenue Road in North York (416-782-5227) MUSIC: Music was played by Impact DJ (impactdj.ca) as well as Michelle’s father’s band, The Dubay Band. “My father sang the song he wrote for me the day I was born and it was beautiful. There were many tears shed.”

SPENT THE MOST ON: Food and drinks!

FAVOURITE PLANNING ELEMENT: Because of Michelle’s background in TV, they created a video to air before their entrance into the reception.

“It was a fake movie trailer of our love story. Mark and I wrote it and we had some of my talented CTV colleagues shoot and edit the piece. It ended up being hilarious, one of the highlights of the wedding!”

S W E E T

LAKESIDE CEREMONY

Samantha & Justin had a simple yet elegant wedding on Sam’s fathers’ private Hanover, Ontario property overlooking the lake.

MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS: “I remember the pride on my parents faces. My dad cried a lot and my mom was so happy for both of us.” ~ Sam “The ATV exit, how much fun the overall day was and how fast the day goes by are all memories that stick out in my mind.” ~ Justin

MORE of this Reality Wedding Story is online at www.theweddingring.ca!

CEREMONY LOCATION: Sam’s father’s property (in Hanover, Ontario) is beautiful, with a lake surrounding on both sides and no other houses around. It was the perfect place - private and serene. “It was also sentimental for my Dad... He worked extremely hard to make sure it would be stunning for our big day, putting down loads of sand and gravel and trimming the pine trees with the help of my brothers and Justin. This also gave Justin the opportunity to incorporate his other love, four-wheeling.” ~ Samantha BUDGET: “We definitely went above the budget we had initially set, but not by an extreme amount. We spent the most on the food, followed by alcohol, flowers and décor. We spent the least on the ceremony location, which had a huge impact on our overall wedding... We simply had to rent washroom facilities and the rest was volunteered labour and the father-of-thebrides supplies...” ~ Justin & Samantha

BRIDE & GROOM: Samantha Strong & Justin Oosthoek PHOTOGRAPHY: Latte Productions Wedding Photography (♥) (www.latteproductions.ca) WEDDING DATE: August 17, 2013 CEREMONY LOCATION: Sam’s fathers’ private Hanover, Ontario RECEPTION LOCATION: Neustadt Community Centre in Neustadt GOWN: Sophie’s Gown Shoppe (sophiesgownshoppe.com) FLORALS: Memorable Designs Special Event Decor (www.memorabledesigns.ca) COLOURS: Eggplant/aubergine purple and a light almost lime green. “We wanted something simple but yet elegant.”

GUEST COUNT: 150 BEST SURPRISES: “That I was so calm... I also wasn’t prepared for the feelings that you get. You feel so supported and loved.

Not only are you going to be sharing your life with this amazing person but there are all these people here because they care and support the two of you, amazing.” ~ Sam “How quickly it goes by. You really have to enjoy every minute because before you know it the day is over and it is nothing but a memory.” ~ Justin FAVOURS: Coaster sets of two with a thank you note, found at The Wedding Shoppe (♥). “They arrived extremely fast (it was sort of a last minute order) and the company was very accommodating.” (theweddingshoppe.ca) GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 17

1 LOVE STORY & 700 GUESTS RICH IN COLOUR & TRADITION

FABULOUS LIVE ONE MAGICAL

MUSIC DAY

FAVOURITE MEMORIES: “How happy we were and how much love we felt in the room. We didn’t want it to end. In fact a few days after the wedding, Paul and I looked at one another and said “wanna do it again”??? We both agreed… but then got the sober reminder of how much money we spent and decided to wait for our 10yrs anniversary!” ~ Pooja

CP24 Anchor, Pooja Handa, and her true love, Paul Pathak, marry in a large, luxe gala, surrounded by hundreds of guests who love them and thousands of carefully planned, beautiful wedding details.

FAVOURITE MOMENT:

“Paul and I agreed to write one another a letter to open on the morning of the wedding.

We weren’t able to speak to one another in the lead up and wanted to have something to commemorate the occasion. I ended up reading the letter aloud and it nearly brought tears to my eyes. Our videographers managed to capture it on video and included it in our same day edit. It’s a memory I will have for a lifetime.” ~ Pooja ADVICE, ONE COUPLE TO ANOTHER: “Ask for help. You’ll need it! Oh and being a Bridezilla or Groomzilla is not a good look!” ~ Pooja & Paul

BRIDE & GROOM: Pooja Handa & Paul Pathak PHOTOGRAPHY: Gillian Williamson from Ikonica VIDEOGRAPHY: Stories Worth Sharing WEDDING DATE: Sunday, May 26, 2013 CEREMONY & RECEPTION: Paramount Conference and Event Venue

by Peter & Paul CATERING: Cuisine of India GUEST COUNT: 700 DÉCOR & FLOWERS: Designing Trendz DJ: Rhythm Force

BRIDE’S ATTIRE: Ceremony: Silver Tulip Reception: Designer Vikram Phadnis (sold exclusively at Vanita Kollections) Jewellery: Banglez GROOM’S ATTIRE: Ceremony: Men of India Reception: Custom made burgundy suit from Harry Rosen MAKE-UP: S.C Artistry & Natalie Matias HAIR: Cathy Truong ENTERTAINMENT: EH440 - A Capella group, Rayn - Magician, Leroy Jones - New Orleans Jazz Trumpeter, Grenville Pinto - Violinist, Paul The Drummer HORSE & CARRIAGE: Caledon Horse & Carriage SPENT THE MOST ON: “We were waaaay over budget.

Based on sheer numbers alone, everything was costly.

Everything becomes pricey when you are trying to accommodate 700 guests!”

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 19

A SENTIMENTAL WEDDING DAY IN RURAL ONTARIO

reality wedding stories

Kourtney & Chris said ‘I do’ on the beautiful Palmerston, Ontario property where Kourtney grew up and later celebrated their reception at the local Legion as a tribute to Kourtney’s grandmother. “We found the wedding planning extremely relaxed and smooth. We have laid back personalities and everything seemed to just fall into place.”

“It rained all night and up until 1pm the day of. Everything was soggy and flooded and it was quite cold... my poor girls in their short, strapless dresses! However, I’m told the sun shone right when I opened the car door. I had some help from up above to pull that one off!” ~ Kourtney MORE of this Reality Wedding Story is online at www.theweddingring.ca!

SENTIMENTAL OVER SWEETS: “My Great Aunt/Adopted Grandmother made our cake. She has made birthday cakes for me since I was little. They are unbeatable! She had undergone eye surgery a couple months before the wedding and was nearly blind in her left eye but she was determined... She created an absolutely beautiful cake that was beyond delicious. It was something that meant a lot to me and a very memorable part of the experience.” ~ Kourtney

BRIDE & GROOM: Kourtney Richardson & Chris Hoffele PHOTOGRAPHY: inLight Photo Studio (♥) (www.inlightphotostudio.com) WEDDING DATE: September 21st, 2013 CEREMONY LOCATION: Harriston Legion Branch 296 RECEPTION LOCATION: Kourtney’s family home, outside of Palmerston BIGGEST PREP CHALLENGE: The guest list was a big hurdle we had to overcome. Large family and friend groups on a small budget don’t go hand in hand... it was difficult to make those final decisions.

COLOURS: Navy, silver & purple

20 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

STATIONERY: Kimbal Printing (519-338-2948) BUDGET: We had a tight budget of around $10-$15,000 but we were able to make it work! We spent our money on quality photography/videography because we felt they were the only things we would have at the end of the day.

GUEST COUNT: A “family dinner” of 120 with 215 guests invited to the ceremony and reception.

BEST SURPRISE: “The heartfelt, sentimental speeches... They were beautifully written and beautifully said.” - Kourtney & Chris FAVOURS: A donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation and the Canadian Cancer Society.

COUTRY CLUB GALA

FILLED WITH PERSONALITY

From their ‘Duck Dynasty’ style wedding entrance to a NASCAR themed groom’s cake, Amanda & Jon’s wedding day was all about fun, personal details and spending the day with friends and family.

MORE of this Reality Wedding Story is online at www.theweddingring.ca!

FAVOURITE PREP ELEMENT: “Wedding dress shopping! It was fun... I found my dress so soon.

I think that if I had gone to fifteen different stores and tried on hundreds of dresses I wouldn’t feel the same way about this planning aspect... I know a lot of brides who found this part stressful (and I have watched enough ‘Say Yes to The Dress’ to know that you CAN try on too many dresses!).” ~ Amanda

BRIDE & GROOM: Amanda Schmidt & Jon Fraser PHOTOGRAPHY: Gary’s Lens Photography (♥) (www.garyslens.ca) WEDDING DATE: June 22, 2013 CEREMONY LOCATION: Church of the Good Shepherd (http://shepherdsway.ca) RECEPTION LOCATION: Rebel Creek Golf Club in Petersburg (♥) (www.rebelcreek.ca) CAKE & CANDY BUFFET: Cakes on Top (www.cakesontop.com)

TOP THREE PRIORITES: The wedding party, Amanda’s dress & the meal STATIONERY: “We created our invitations ourselves! My MOH and I used the engagement photos of Jon and I from Gary’s Lens Photography to create the invitations. We created them on a website, which then mailed them to our guests for us!” ~ Amanda GUEST COUNT: 104 COLOURS: “Navy and magenta. Some people had doubts about the bright pink, but if they knew me at all, they would know that I can’t do much in life without using a little bit of pink! I think the colours turned out fantastic and looking back now I wouldn’t have changed either of them!” ~ Amanda

FINDING THE ULTIMATE RECEPTION VENUE: “We wanted to have our reception at a golf course and liked the location and the banquet hall the best out of all of the locations we toured. At the time, Rebel Creek (♥) was planning to renovate their banquet hall and patio... Looking back it was a bit of a gamble to book with them in the hopes that construction would be completed in time, but it turned out great!

Our reception hall fees included the dinner, dessert, late night buffet and an open bar for our guests. We were very pleased with Rebel Creek throughout the whole process, so even though it was the most expensive part of our day, it was totally worth it!” ~ Amanda & Jon GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 21

INTIMATE,

DIY

WEDDING

DAY

V I N E YA R D

BIGGEST WEDDING DAY SURPRISE: “Chris snuck a surprise section into our wedding day video. He worked with our videographer, Jason Wilton of Boundless Wedding Videography (myboundlesswedding.com) to add our engagement video into our wedding slide show. It was so sweet.” ~ Kiley

Kiley & Chris loved the rustic, romantic feel of Holland Marsh Wineries and with help from crafty family members, they filled their day with DIY details and sweet personal touches.

KILEY’S FAVOURITE DIY PROJECTS: “We designed and assembled our own invites... Kraft coloured card stock on a white wood grain embossed paper, wrapped in white and red twine and a little white heart.

It was all in black cursive writing... No imagery, it was just simple rustic and clean.”

“There was so much DIY! From the wood box centrepieces made by myself and my father, to the hand bent vintage fork place card holders made by my father-in-law... the little ‘yay’ flags I sewed while my sister and sisterin-law hand stamped them all!

Details were so important to us.”

BIGGEST CHALLENGE: Budget! “...by far

the biggest challenge! Having all the little touches throughout the day was adding up.

Fortunately we have a lot of crafty people in our family and DIY saved the day, and our budget.”

BRIDE & GROOM: Kiley & Chris Contois PHOTOGRAPHY: TJ Durnan Photography (♥) (www.tjdurnan.com) WEDDING DATE: June 8, 2013 CEREMONY & RECEPTION LOCATION: Holland Marsh Wineries in Newmarket (www.hmwineries.ca) FAVOURS: “Glass lantern votives etched with our names and wedding date by Chris’ uncle Jeff, then painstakingly hand chained by my wonderful bridesmaids.”

CATERING: O’Malley’s Catering & Rentals (www.omalleyscatering.com)

24 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

MORE of this Reality Wedding Story is online at www.theweddingring.ca!

CAKE: A Cake Occasion “It was vanilla with a strawberry vanilla filling and fresh cut strawberries. The cake stand was made from an old elm my husband cut down and my dad helped seal.” (acakeoccasion.ca) BUDGET: $15,000 (They went over on flowers but stayed on track with everything else thanks to DIY projects!)

GUEST COUNT: 100 COLOURS: Crimson red with eggplant purple, granny smith green, dove grey and brown.

FAVOURITE PART: The flowers! “I think I terrified my florist, but she was amazing and delivered the most beautiful flowers I have ever seen.”

reality wedding stories

HISTORICAL

B E A U T Y

Jen & Scott hosted an intimate celebration with their closest friends and family. They chose Hauser Hall, originally an 1800’s church, for its beautiful cathedral ceilings, wrought iron chandeliers and gorgeous, private setting.

ADVICE, ONE BRIDE TO ANOTHER: “Don’t doubt yourself. Every decision I made from the flowers, invitations, photographer, were the right ones. However, during the planning stages I would often go back and forth with the decisions I had made. Ultimately, I should have trusted and realized that each decision had been made with effort and were carefully researched and thought out.”

MORE of this Reality Wedding Story is online at www.theweddingring.ca!

SAVING GRACE: The Prepared Bride. She created all the itineraries... which were meticulous. She is one of the main reasons that our day went off flawlessly!

BRIDE & GROOM: Jennifer & Scott Johnston PHOTOGRAPHY: Sheila Braam Photography (♥) (sheilabraam.com) WEDDING DATE: May 25th, 2013 CEREMONY & RECEPTION LOCATION: Hauser Hall in Heidelberg (♥) (www.hauserhall.com) WEDDING PLANNER: The Prepared Bride (www.preparedbrideweddings.com) CEREMONY MUSIC: The Leith Quartet (♥) Played classical music plus “Sweet child o’mine,” “Wonderwall,” and “Clocks” (theweddingring.ca/reviews-in-the-ring/the-leith-quartet) (leithquartet@gmail.com)

CATERING: Kennedy’s Restaurant & Catering (www.kennedycatering.ca) MamaPapa Catering Co. ~ “Ultimate late night nacho bar” (www.mamapapacatering.ca) FLORALS: Pink Poppi (www.pinkpoppi.ca) TRANSPORTATION: Brentwood Livery (♥) (www.brentwoodlivery.ca) STATIONERY: DoubleTake Invitations (♥) (www.doubletakeinvitations.com) BUDGET: “We always joke and say ‘what budget?!” $30,000 GUEST COUNT: 80 THEME & COLOURS: Romantic glam & black with blush pink

FAVOURITE THING: Nacho bar!

“To this day, guests still tell us that the nacho bar was one of their favourite parts of the wedding.”

FAVOURITE MOMENT: “When I first saw Scott. We did ‘first glance’ photos before the wedding. I was so excited to see him. I will never forget the look on his face... It was such a special memory that I will never forget.” - Jen “I agree with Jen. It was the moment I first saw her. But I will also always remember walking into the ceremony, seeing Hauser Hall decorated and seeing all of our friends and family that were there for us.” ~ Scott PRIORITIES:Food,venue,flowers&music WHAT WE SPENT THE MOST ON: The wedding flowers & Scott’s Suit!

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 25

reality wedding stories

RUSTIC ROMANCE Jennifer & Connor were

married at Connor’s parents’ property in Ayr. “We had the reception on a stretch of grass, surrounded by trees by the Nith river... The venue looked so beautiful at night – with lights all around the tent, hanging from the trees and floating in the pond...”

MORE of this Reality Wedding Story is online at www.theweddingring.ca!

BRIDE & GROOM: Jennifer Lovrics & Connor Page PHOTOGRAPHY: Calvin Photography (♥) (calvinphotography.com) WEDDING DATE: September 7, 2013 CEREMONY & RECEPTION LOCATION: Connor’s parents’ property in Ayr, Ontario, with the ceremony in the barn & tent reception by the river WEDDING PLANNING: Little White Dress (www.thelittlewhitedress.ca) & reading reviews in TheWeddingRing.ca THEME & DESIGN: Rustic and casual. Beige and sage green attire. Florals in pinks, greens and white. Tables had white chairs and burlap table runners to give it a country feel.

STATIONERY: Wedding Paper Divas (weddingpaperdivas.com)

CAKE: Tiny Cakes (tinycakes.ca) CATERING: Stircrazy Catering, Toronto (stircrazycatering.ca) “We offered salmon, steak or quinoa stuffed Portobello entrees. It’s amazing they were able to prepare meals for 140 people in a tent, with one oven and two barbecues.

The food was fabulous. Apis were pulled pork tacos, beef sliders, gazpacho and more.”

TENT: Totally Covered Event Rentals (totallycovered.ca) GUEST COUNT: 140 SPENT THE MOST ON: Catering, tents (our ‘venue’), flowers & washrooms GUESTS’ TRANPORTATION FROM HOTEL: Brentwood Livery (♥) (brentwoodlivery.ca) MUSIC: “DJ Eric” of Olympic Sound (♥) (olympicsound.com)

28• The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

WEDDING DAY WORRIES: We had to bring everything in – from the bathrooms to the electricity and tents.

The torrential rain overnight and up until 2pm on the day of was pretty worrisome! It was really a test for our tent, but there were no leaks!

With the wet weather looming, we are now the proud owners of over 50 dollar store umbrellas! The weather cleared up just before the ceremony.

Overall, there were no major planning dramas, just a lot of lists!

FAVOURITE THINGS: The vows, the speeches and the time we spent with family and friends.

O N C E UPON A TIME

Angie & Reed planned a large, rustic, fairytale day with a sparkly twist.

MORE of this Reality Wedding Story is online at www.theweddingring.ca!

FAVOURITE DIY ELEMENT: “Instead of having programs for our guests, we decided that we would keep the theme of old doors... We wrote the ceremony out on a rustic door that was transformed into a chalk board made by our brother in law.”

ADVICE, ONE BRIDE TO ANOTHER: When people say that you need to sit back and enjoy your wedding day because it goes by so fast... they mean it. I woke up the day after my wedding and it was all a big blur. This is also when I realized just how important photography and videography is... If I can give one piece of advice to brides it would be make sure you have a good photographer and you have someone video tape the ceremony.

BRIDE & GROOM: Angie Keller & Reed Norman PHOTOGRAPHY: fresh images Photography (www.freshimages.ca) WEDDING DATE: September 14, 2013 CEREMONY & RECEPTION LOCATION: Keller Farms in Mitchell, Ontario GOWN: Crème Couture (♥) (www.cremecouture.ca) with alterations by Ashleigh McGiver BRIDE’S HAIR: Jessica Ward from Grotto Hair Studio (www.grottohairstudio.ca) BRIDESMAIDS’ HAIR: Sheri Horton of Jacha (♥) (www.jacha.ca)

MAKE-UP: Jacha (♥) (www.jacha.ca) with help from Amy Pederson and Sheena Nichola FLORALS: Village Vines (www.villagevinesflorists.com) TENT: Marshals Tent Rentals (jmarshalltentpartyrentals.com) DESSERTS: Back to Basics Baking (backtobasicsbaking.blogspot.com) LIVE MUSIC: Brad McGoey GUEST COUNT: 240 BUDGET: $18,000 BEST SAVE: $5 benches for the reception WEDDING SPLURGES: Flowers, centrepieces, sequin table cloths and photography GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 29

FEATURE:

FASHION & DESIGN

MORE INSPIRATION An extended gallery of photos from these fashion shoots are online @ The Ring! www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: www.lynismael.com (♥) GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 33

RUSTIC GLAM GARDEN PARTY

[ Fashion Inspiration, pages 33 to 37] PHOTOGRAPHY: Lyn Ismael: Evocative Imagery of Love Stories (♥) (www.lynismael.com) VENUE: Homer Watson House & Gallery (www.homerwatson.on.ca) 519-748-4377 BRIDES & BRIDESMAIDS: Jenessa Van Schip, Danika Kempel, Angela Nyhout GROOM: Eric Van Schip DÉCOR & FLORALS: The Event Firm (♥) (www.theeventfirm.ca) GOWNS, SHOES & ACCESSORIES: La Crème (♥) (lacremedecor.com) MEN’S ATTIRE & SHOES: Collins Formal Wear (♥) (collinsformalwear.com) HAIR: Evolution Concepts in Hair & Spa (♥) (evolutionhairspa.com) MAKE-UP: Erika Synder (♥) (erika.snyder@hotmail.com) 34 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

LOOK 1: Gown by Sherri Hill with crystal cluster chandelier earrings

and

a

handmade

Swarovski

headband

with

a

double strap and leaf design. LOOK 2: Champagne “Social Occasions” dress by Mon Cheri, paired with a Swarovski teardrop necklace, earring set with crystal drops and a stretch crystal bracelet.

LOOK 3: “Social Occasions” knee length dress by Mon Cheri, finished with Swarovski crystal “AB” and topaz drop earrings,

and

champagne

“AB”

Austrian

crystal

bangles.

TUXEDO: Eric wore a “Black Allure” tux by Jean Yves (style 1025) with an ivory tie and pocket puff, from Collins Formalwear.

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 35

LOOK 4: Jenessa wears this “B2” knee length dress

by Jasmine. LOOK 5: Angela’s strapless, ivory “White” dress by Bari Jay is paired with a pearl and bead, three strand necklace set with drop earrings and a multi strand Swarovski and crystal bracelet with adjustable straps.

PHOTOS: Lyn Ismael : Evocative Imagery of Love Stories (♥) (www.lynismael.com)

36 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

DÉCOR & DETAILS: Carolina of The Event Firm describes the design and details used in this shoot...

The classic colour palette was mixed with a modern, rustic floral design. The modern glasses off- set the vintage books and candles in the centrepiece design. The picnic table, a very casual piece, was used to offset the formal flower choice of spray roses. Gold accents helped to give the palette more depth and the rustic garden party design featured a classic look, tweaked towards modern rustic.

The shoot design was all about balance for us. Balance between vintage and modern, rustic and formal, and natural and intentional.

Natural elements were mixed with intentional elements in all of the shoot scenes, particularly where we see a couch thrown into a very natural setting with the surrounding foliage, and hanging twine and floral orbs as the sole décor focus... both are natural in their individual elements, but also very intentional in their construction.

PHOTOS: Lyn Ismael:Evocative Imagery of Love Stories (♥) (www.lynismael.com)

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 37

ANTIQUE

& ELEGANT IN THE OUTDOORS [ Fashion Inspiration, pages 38 to 41] PHOTOGRAPHY: Danielle Herakovic of Herakovic Photography (♥) (www.hrkvc.com) VENUE: The Wilson Family farm DÉCOR: Fresh Look Design (♥) (www.freshlookdesign.ca) and High Gloss Weddings (♥) (highglossweddings.com) MALE MODEL: Marcus Iafrate FEMALE MODELS: Morgan Oldershaw, Daniela Turcotte, Olivia Gremm HAIR: Voila Salon and Spa Sportsworld (www.voilasalon.com) MAKE-UP: High Gloss Weddings (♥) (www.highglossweddings.com) FLOWERS: The Flower Studio (www.flowerstudiodesigns.com) GOWNS, SHOES & ACCESSORIES: Jirina’s Bridal (♥) (www.jirinasbridal.com) ACCESSORIES: Thirty One Gifts (www.thirtyonegifts.ca) GROOM'S ATTIRE: Collins Formal Wear (♥) (www.collinsformalwear.com) STATIONERY: Uptown Designs (♥) (www.uptowndesigns.ca)

38 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

fashion & design DÉCOR: Fresh Look Design and High Gloss Weddings worked together to create several beautiful scenes ranging from outdoor wedding wonderland style to antique and elegant in the country.

From lanterns and florals to an antique telephone and books, vintage inspiration and delicate details fill the outdoor spaces.

Many of the large furniture pieces such as the hutch and settee (and the items to go with them) were provided by Fresh Look Design with countless additional accessories provided

by High Gloss Weddings.

PHOTOS: Danielle Herakovic of Herakovic Photography (♥) (www.hrkvc.com)

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 39

fashion & design 38 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca 40 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

DÉCOR: Fresh Look Design and High Gloss Weddings provided all of the décorative furniture and accessories that make up these gorgeous wedding designs.

fashion & design

PHOTOS: Danielle Herakovic of Herakovic Photography (♥) (www.hrkvc.com)

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 41 39

destination wedding tips ALL PHOTOS, THIS PAGE: www.capturedsoulphotography.com (♥)

DESTINATION WEDDING IDEAS YOU’LL LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY: www.capturedsoulphotography.com (♥)

TAKE SHELTER. Whether it’s the heat of the

sun’s rays or an impromptu bout of rain, outdoor beach ceremonies can be as unpredictable as they are beautiful. What better way to treat your guests than to offer them shelter in the form of customized umbrellas that tie in directly with your wedding style and colours? [Search for umbrellas at weddingfavours.ca and theweddingshoppe.ca.]

FAVOUR YOUR GUESTS. It’s fun and easy to get

creative with wedding favours. Consider ideas that tie in the island such as seen above: messages in bottles, maracas that guests shake when the couple share their first married kiss, ‘go cups’ that are customized with your monogram or message and contain goodies such as sunscreen, gum and mini water guns.

EMBRACE LOCAL FLORALS. Instead of trying to source floral types you found on Pinterest, check out the vibrant, lush colours and shapes of the flowers found locally to your destination. Embrace all things destination and go with the flow!

WRITE LOVE NOTES. Consider writing a note to thank friends and family for coming so far for your celebration. Leave the note in the welcome bags or attach them to guest favours.

GO FOR LUXE ACCESSORIES. Just because the

idea of flip flops in the sand tends to go along with Destination Weddings, doesn’t mean you have to play it casual. Choose blinged out flip flops. Wear designer heels which can be taken off or traded for flip flops during the ceremony. Accessorize with a high end

42 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

fascinator and gorgeous jewellery. There’s no reason you can’t be beautiful on the beach!

HOST A FULL RECEPTION. Many resorts

automatically include a group table or section at an à la carte restaurant for the reception as part of their minimum wedding package. Some couples go totally casual by simply reserving a table at the buffet for everyone in attendance. And others go all out.

Consider reserving an entire restaurant, ballroom or part of the beach for a full reception, complete with charger plates, chair covers, centrepieces and more.

Polish off the evening with a dance in the hall or on the beach. Nothing is out of the question at most resorts and the often reasonable costs will probably be a nice surprise!

An expert tip from Melanie of Weddingfavours.ca (♥)

• Choose accessories and favours that are lightweight, sturdy and compact. Glass items are heavy and breakable and your guests will not want to travel back with them.

• Check travel restrictions: Items such as sand, glass and matches may not be permitted on the airplane.

Check with your travel agent or airline before assuming something is safe.

• If you are incorporating the sand ceremony into

your destination wedding, you need to plan ahead.

Remember that the finished central vase will need to travel upright with as little jostling as possible to keep the layers intact. Be aware that depending on the destination and restrictions at the moment, you may not be able to bring it on board in your carry-on. If your sand layers go awry, you can either accept that the mixed up sand still symbolizes your unity OR you can double the sentiment by re-doing the ceremony privately at home. Some couples choose to do this when they return and use actual sand from the ceremony site.

• Consider doing the sand ceremony at a local reception after the actual destination wedding. In this case, remember to bring back some of the beach sand to use as a base. This is simpler than transporting the

finished sand ceremony and is also a nice addition to a celebration for friends and family members who could not join you for your destination wedding.

destination wedding tips

• Plan early. Order accessories early enough that you can assess the size and weight of the items. You may also be able to split the items among close family members or your bridal party.

• Consider practical favours for your guests; personalized sunscreen, hand sanitizer, hot cocoa, hand fans, bottle openers, personalized playing cards and luggage tags are all good options.

• Take your own cake topper. You will want to pare

down on the wedding accessories but a cake topper is a nice and personal item to bring with you. Choose one that travels well, make sure it is lightweight and non-breakable or at least packaged in a manner that will keep it safe enroute.

• Paper umbrellas are a welcome gift for guests who will be sitting in the sun during your ceremony. If you are travelling light, consider one for the bride and each bridesmaid. They look beautiful in photos and will shelter bare shoulders from the hot sun.

• Notify guests as soon as possible. Start letting guests know about the basic arrangements as soon as you have settled on a date and location. Many guests will need to book time off work, arrange for childcare and save money for the trip and all these things take time.

Guests should not make the decisions for you, but you want to be certain that key people are available at a certain time of year. Communication is important as is making a solid plan and sticking with it.

• Be open to the possibility of a second reception.

This can be as simple as gathering at a restaurant or hosting a backyard barbeque. There will be people you care about who will not be able to attend your wedding due to age, health, financial, family and employment issues. This is a nice way to include all of your loved ones.

Try to think of a way to include these important people in the process. Even a photo reveal evening with a cake and the bride and groom in their wedding attire would allow these additional VIPs to feel included and give you another chance to show off the wedding gown! ■

TIPS FROM A DESTINATION WEDDING EXPERT Although a DW often means less stressful planning, there are several things to consider when booking your DW says Dawn Fairbanks of Destinations by Dawn (www.facebook.com/ DestinationWeddingsByDawn). Dawn offers some advice for DW brides....

More and more couples are choosing destination weddings and a popular trend right now is an off-site destination wedding. This means that couples are

PHOTOS: www.capturedsoulphotography.com (♥)

staying at a resort but are having the wedding at a location that’s off the resort.

For example, Dawn recommends an off-site villa in Roatan, Honduras for brides who are looking for something a little bit different. “It’s very private, very authentic and very cool!”

Keep in mind that there’s a danger in booking

too far in advance, as rates aren’t always great.

Instead, Dawn advises you to wait as your travel agent keeps her eye on group rates and special offers and pinpoints the best time to book.

Dawn also suggests that if you’re bringing kids with you, it’s a good idea to consider booking the shortest possible travel times. Your travel agent can work with you to find the quickest flights and most accessible shuttles from the airport to your resort.

The most important piece of advice that Dawn offers

your wedding special and unique, but the entire trip

is to make sure that your wedding is all about what

should be special and unique for your guests.”

YOU want first. Secondly, Dawn encourages you to keep your guests in mind. “You want to make

To help figure out the ideal location for both you and your guests, Dawn says that your target budget is

key. Other important points like the beach, pools, food, entertainment and size of the resort will also help you decide which resort is best for you. ■

SAYING ‘I DO’ BEFORE YOU GO Since many countries have different rules and regulations for wedding ceremonies, Christina Brighton of Celebrate Love & Life Weddings

(♥)

(www.celebrateloveandlife.

com) suggests you consider taking care of the legal end of the wedding before you go. “Avoid the complications and legal details while on your weddingmoon,” she says. “No one ever needs to know. You can still have your symbolic/spiritual ceremony while you’re away.”

• Each review in The Ring is based on industry knowledge, thorough research, interviews with the vendors, interviews with their past brides, personal viewing of work, and more.

• Reviews are on experts who are local, wellloved, and dedicated to making your wedding fabulous.

• The Ring is doing the research so that you don’t have to - one wedding community at a time!

MORE IN THE RING...

• Bridal eNews delivers upcoming events, news & reviews to your inbox. Choose the area you want wedding news for and leave the rest to us!

• The Ring hosts a Bridal Expo in K-W & Brantford, twice a year: theweddingring.ca/bridalexpo

♥ VINTAGECHINA At The Ring we adore the use of vintage china for both wedding reception dinnerware and for décor accents.

Tea cups, hand painted china plates and bowls, silver cutlery, tea pots, silver trays set out at accent tables or used with centrepieces... Lovely!

♥ COLOURED GLASS

[Photo, right] Adding coloured glassware to your wedding décor can be an easy and inexpensive way to add colour and personality to your wedding design, using them for centerpieces, table décor accents and more. High Gloss Weddings (♥) (highglossweddings.com) offers vases that are perfect for a vintage, eco, modern or retro wedding, starting at $2 each.

♥ BLINGED OUT

♥ MANITOBAH MUKLUKS

46 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTOS, THIS PAGE: Jennifer Goulden

MUKLUKS PHOTO courtesy of Manitobah Mukluks Brides across Canada are purchasing authentic Manitobah Mukluks (manitobah.ca) to wear, pose in the snow with and/or to give as gifts. And at the same time, they’re supporting The Centre for Aboriginal Human Resource Development (CAHRD) and the Storyboot Project. Manitobah Mukluks is an Aboriginal-owned Canadian brand that produces authentic Aboriginal mukluks, moccasins and accessories. Manitobah Mukluks are wedding day must-haves particularly for those who want to embrace their own Aboriginal background. Most products range from $129 to $350+. Our fav: the Tall Wrap Mukluks for $349.

[Photo, below] Lori at Decorating Dreams (♥) (www.decoratingdreams.ca) says that whether it’s head table backdrops dripping with strands of jewels, fabulous crystal & glass centrepieces, or sparkly chandeliers, you can be sure that glitter, crystals and all things bling are a big part of wedding design for 2014.

PHOTO, ABOVE: www.freshlookdesign.ca (♥)

♥ ART DECO ACCENTS

♥ FASHIONABLY ROYAL

Although hats and fascinators have always been a staple at weddings in the UK, local wedding parties and guests alike are adding fabulous headpieces to their wedding day look. Crème Couture (♥) (www. cremecouture.ca) brought Condici hats (like the one shown here) to their Guelph store directly from London to add sophisticated European style to local weddings.

PHOTO, ABOVE: Courtesy of www.myurbanbride.com (♥)

♥ BROOCH BOUQUET

Brooch bouquets are big when it comes to weddings.

They’re a sweet way to incorporate history and sometimes memories of loved ones into the bride’s bouquet.

Here, Simona of Urban Bride (♥) (myurbanbride. com) showcases a bouquet that incorporates feathers for a softer, more romantic look.

PHOTO, LEFT: www.greatheightsphoto.ca

PHOTO, RIGHT: www.cameronshaver.com (♥)

Vintage styled weddings are here to stay and Fresh Look Design (♥) (freshlookdesign.ca) recommends choosing a particular era to narrow down any vintage theme. Art Deco has its origins in 1925 France and is ideal for a Gatsby style wedding day.

Think ornamentation focused on geometric designs, bold colour and outlines, and stylized forms.

PHOTO, ABOVE: cremecouture.ca (♥)

♥ ROMANTIC MAKE-OVERS & SOFT COLOURS

The 2014 wedding season is all about soft colours and romantic details. Make-up Artist Courtney Lackner (♥) (www.cournteylackner.com) says this approach is best incorporated with a dramatic red lip, or a natural, flawless make-up look with a subtle winged eyeliner or false lashes for added drama.

♥ MIDIGHT PORTRAITS Photographer, Cameron Shaver (♥) (cameronshaver.com), is getting creative with photo shoots (and capturing high fashion style keepsake images along the way) by doing midnight shoots on the wedding night. As the reception winds down, Cameron steals his couples for a nighttime shoot for unique images and some much needed alone time after the wedding!

As rustic themed weddings continue to gain popularity in 2014, Invitation Specialists like DoubleTake Invitations (♥) (doubletakeinvitations.com) are creating invites that set the mood for a rustic wedding day.

This textured “bark” invitation suite includes a chalkboard design, wrapped in twine, made for a recent “Rustic Country” wedding day.

PHOTO, LEFT: doubletakeinvitations.com (♥)

♥ RUSTIC INVITES

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 47

FAVOURITE THINGS At The Wedding Ring we absolutely love going on the hunt for those cool, unique, fun finds that we know brides won’t be able to resist. Here are just a few of the many things that we think are must-haves for the ultimate wedding day...

FLORAL HEADBAND

We adore this delicate Bridal Classics headband. It’s the perfect way to complete your wedding day look ($130). Find yours as well as other beautiful wedding day accessories at SEW STYLISH WEDDING WORKS (♥) (sewstylishweddingworks.com) in Ingersoll.

CANDY STRIPED STRAWS

SWEET SPARKLE

These biodegradable candy striped paper straws are a simple and popular way to punch up the fun factor. Whether on their own or with the addition of personalized flags or die-cut paper slides, they offer a world of wedding day possibilities. Available in a range of festive colours. Sold in packs of seventy-five ($9.48 per pack). Find them at WEDDINGFAVOURS.CA (♥).

Make a statement with accessories like these floral inspired earrings and matching statement necklace. The set will add just the right amount of sparkle as you walk down the aisle ($180).

Find this set at SEW STYLISH WEDDING WORKS (♥) (sewstylishweddingworks.com) in Ingersoll.

♥ = INTERVIEWED, RESEARCHED & REVIEWED @ WWW.THEWEDDINGRING.CA

VINTAGE CARD HOLDERS

Vintage-inspired place card/photo holders are a uniquely classic, elegant and vintage way to display photos or place cards for your guests.

Made of cast metal with an antique bronze finish, each key is crafted to resemble an antique skeleton key (from $1.54 each). Find them at WEDDINGFAVOURS.CA (♥).

CRAFTY FAVOUR TAGS

These sweet little name tags can be used for just about anything, including favours. They can also be stained with minimal effort and no extra cost. Visit the blog at WEDDINGFAVOURS.CA (♥) for instructions on how to stain them with instant coffee, for a vintage look ($5.25 per pack of fifty).

YOUR CAKE TAKES THE STAND

This vintage cake stand from HIGH GLOSS

WEDDINGS (www.highglossweddings.com) (♥) adds tons of charm to sweeten up your dessert table. Stands come in a variety of styles and heights and are a great way to display your cake, cupcakes, cookies, cake pops, pies and more (starting at $5).

VINTAGE GARTER

This elegant ivory garter is made of soft lace and decorated with a beaded appliqué for the blingloving bride. Featuring a stretch lace band with jeweled embellishments ($21.21). One size fits most. Available at WEDDINGFAVOURS.CA (♥).

LOVEBIRD SHAKERS

Spice up your guests’ day with this pair of lovebird salt and pepper shakers. They’re inseparable, inspirational and make a darling choice as favours that say ‘thank you for sharing in our love-filled day’. From $3.31 at WEDDINGFAVOURS.CA (♥).

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 49

LOVELY LUGGAGE

These white leatherette Mr & Mrs luggage tags ($9.99) are a fun way to travel. On the other side of each tag is a clear window with an I.D. card to be filled out. The card leaves room to fill in your name, address, phone and email. From THE WEDDING SHOPPE (www.theweddingshoppe.ca) (♥).

MR & MRS PASSPORT COVERS

SECRET WEAPONS

ShowStoppers fashion tape is the perfect accessory. You can fix a revealing dress, close a shirt gap, conceal bra straps, create a perfect hem, and more. Keep a pack in your purse for emergencies. ($11.40 per pack). Find yours at WEDDINGFAVOURS.CA (♥).

BRA STRAP BLING

These Mr & Mrs passport covers fit a standard-sized

Rio Rox fashion bra straps add rhinestone glitz to your

passport with two pockets on the inside for your passport

off-the-shoulder top or otherwise strapless gowns. They

($14.99). Each is made of leatherette and is available at

fasten easily to any convertible bra or swimsuit. 18” long.

THE WEDDING SHOPPE (theweddingshoppe.ca) (♥).

($19.95). Available at WEDDINGFAVOURS.CA (♥).

COMFORT FOR HIM

Tailored for a light, comfortable fit, these briefs are made with Italian MicroModal® (it’s finer than cotton or silk!). So comfortable, he’ll forget that he’s wearing underwear. Sizes S-XL ($46) at LA FEMME PRIVÉE (♥) in Kitchener (www.lafemmeprivee.com).

PLUMPING LIP GLOSS

Drench your lips in moisture, shine and colour.

Principessa Plumping Lip Gloss works as a gloss and balm and contains shea butter and vitamin E to keep your lips soft all night long ($18). LA FEMME PRIVÉE (♥) in Kitchener (www.lafemmeprivee.com).

MEMORIES & MESSAGES IN A BOX

An alternative to the traditional guest book. Two different styles of stationery to choose from can be left out for guests to write their messages and wishes on. Notes are placed in the box and saved for years to come. ($48.98, stationery sold separately).

THE WEDDING SHOPPE (www.theweddingshoppe.ca) (♥).

THE SCOOP ON FAVOURS

These wooden scoops are perfect for small treats in your candy buffet or even a tea sampler table. Made of unfinished turned wood, they are perfect for a rustic wedding day. Give them out as favours for scooping bath salts, spices or loose tea. Available at WEDDINGFAVOURS.CA (♥) ($3.31 each).

WELL WISHING STATIONERY

This “Well Wishing” stationery set is designed for the memory box (left). Package contains 50 folding self-closing cards and one instructional tent card for guests. ($19.98 per set). THE WEDDING SHOPPE (www.theweddingshoppe.ca) (♥).

PLAYFUL GARTERS

This tulle flower bridal garter adds a pop of colour and whimsy to your wedding day attire ($11.26 each). A light plum mesh flower is decorated with crystal embellishment. One size fits most. At WEDDINGFAVOURS.CA (♥).

BRACELET BLING

This beautiful Bridal Classics bracelet is all about timeless glamour. It’s a stunning accessory at a price brides will love ($45). Found at SEW STYLISH WEDDING WORKS (♥) (sewstylishweddingworks.com) in Ingersoll.

KEEPSAKES FOR CUTIES

These “Little Ring Bearer” and “Little Flower Girl” 4x6 picture frames act as a keepsake of the smallest members of your wedding party. Keep them for yourself or give them as a gift. ($17.99 each). THE WEDDING SHOPPE (theweddingshoppe.ca) (♥).

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS!

What is

Pink...

BIG...

and has FABULOUS written all over it?

local wedding experts ~ sample sales ~ designer gowns starting at $99 ~ live design palettes ~ custom labels for giveaways ~ prizes

BRIDAL EXPO PRESENTED BY WWW.THEWEDDINGRING.CA

BRANTFORD EXPO

January 25th, 2014 + September Date TBA @ BEST WESTERN BRANT PARK INN

K-W EXPO

January 4th & 5th, 2014 + September 21st, 2014 @ WATERLOO INN

REGISTER FOR FREE ADMISSION, SWAG & CUSTOM LABELS AT: WWW.THEWEDDINGRING.CA/BRIDALEXPO

BRIDAL SHOW Full list of bridal shows (updated year round!) can be found in TheWeddingRing.ca ♥ THE RING’S WINTER BRIDAL EXPO @ WATERLOO INN January 4th & 5th, 2014 Local brides unite! @ The Waterloo Inn 475 King Street North in Waterloo www.theweddingring.ca/bridalexpo 4TH ANNUAL CANADA SOUTHERN RAILWAY STATION BRIDAL EXPO January 12th, 2014 at CASO Train Station 750 Talbot Street in St. Thomas, ON www.facebook.com/CASOstation HAMILTON-HALTON SPRING WEDDING SHOW January 11th & 12th, 2014 at The Careport Centre 270 Longwood Road South (Innovation Park) in Hamilton www.topweddingshows.com TOTAL WEDDING SHOW January 17th, 18th & 19th, 2014 at the International Centre 6900 Airport Road, in Mississauga www.totalweddingshow.com LONDON WINTER BRIDAL SHOW January 18th & 19th, 2014 at the London Convention Centre 300 York Street, in London www.winter.londonbridalshows.com THE RING’S (1ST EVER!) WINTER BRIDAL EXPO IN BRANTFORD January 25th, 2014 Local brides unite! @ The Best Western Brant Park Inn 19 Holiday Drive in Brantford www.theweddingring.ca/bridalexpo STRATFORD COUNTRY CLUB BOUTIQUE BRIDAL SHOW January 25th, 2014 at the Stratford Country Club 53 Romeo Street North in Stratford www.stratfordcountryclub.com THE BURLINGTON/OAKVILLE BRIDAL SHOW January 25th & 26th, 2014 at the Burlington Convention Centre, 1120 Burloak Drive in Burlington www.haltonbridalshow.com

FERGUS WEDDING SHOWCASE February 23rd, 2014 Unity Hall, Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex 550 Belsyde Avenue East, in Fergus www.ralphbasset.com THE BRIDES BASH March 1st, 2014 at the Mitchell Golf and Country Club 81 Frances Street West in Mitchell www.devineweddingdesign.ca DREAMS CAN BECOME REALITY BRIDAL SHOW March 2nd, 2014 at the Cambridge Newfoundland Club 1500 Dunbar Road in Cambridge dreamscanbecomereality.weebly.com/index.html THE ULTIMATE BRIDAL SHOW March 15th, 2014 at the Living Arts Centre 4141 Living Arts Drive in Mississauga ultimatebridal.ca ANCASTER WEDDING SHOW March 21st, 2014 at the Ancaster Fairgrounds 630 Trinity Road in Jerseyville ancasterweddingshow.com CONESTOGA COUNTRY CLUB BRIDAL EXPO April 6th, 2014 at the Conestoga Country Club 400 Golf Course Road in Conestogo conestogabridalexpo.com LISTOWEL WEDDING WALK April 12th, 2014 in the Town of Listowel 135 Main Street West in Listowel www.facebook.com/ listowelweddingwalk ANCASTER WEDDING SHOW August 17th, 2014 at the Ancaster Fairgrounds 630 Trinity Road in Jerseyville ancasterweddingshow.com

** Show times and details are subject to change. Please check applicable websites for updates prior to the show.

BRIDAL SHOW SURVIVAL TIPS!

1. PRINT PERSONALIZED LABELS Shows are home to some of the best giveaways of the year. You have the chance to win items such as honeymoon getaways and huge online shopping sprees.

Save yourself from hand cramps by printing labels at home. When you circulate through the various booths at the show, just stick your labels onto the many ballots you’d otherwise have to fill out by hand!

On your labels, include... • bride’s name • groom’s name • wedding date • address & phone number • email address

2. PREPARE TO CARRY ON Be sure to bring a bag with a comfortable shoulder strap, a backpack, or better yet, a bridal party (or the groom!) to help carry things. You’ll be given countless brochures, gifts and magazines and you don’t want to be left juggling them for hours.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Wedding Worthy Halls is a feature of The Wedding Ring Magazine that’s designed to give you an at-a-glance look at some of the amazing wedding locations found in Southwestern Ontario. Browse the profiles for the basics such as capacity and bar options. Want more? Find everything from colour schemes to wedding menus, and package pricing by checking out reception hall reviews at TheWeddingRing.ca.

Photo courtesy of www.brentfosterphotography.com

Photo courtesy of Holiday Inn Kitchener-Waterloo

HOLIDAY INN KITCHENER-WATERLOO HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTRE

CAMBRIDGE BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY

♥ = INTERVIEWED, RESEARCHED & REVIEWED @ WWW.THEWEDDINGRING.CA

IN CAMBRIDGE www.cambridgebutterfly.com

A romantic, intimate and unique wedding venue.

The enchanting indoor gardens provide a lush, tropical setting for your ceremony, reception and photos all year round, rain or shine. Offering fully customized menus and personalized consultation for weddings from 40 – 200 guests.

519-653-1234 | COCKTAIL RECEPTION 200 GUESTS | CONSERVATORY CEREMONY 200 GUESTS | SIT-DOWN DINING 100 GUESTS | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

IN KITCHENER www.holidayinn.com/kitcheneron

A variety of elegant venue spaces, professional onsite wedding planners, award winning Executive Chef offering customized menus, onsite décor options, inclusive packages for every budget, discounted guest accommodations and complimentary executive suite on your wedding night, and much more...

519-894-8512 | 10 TO 300 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING

Photo courtesy of www.bvphotos.ca

STONE WILLOW INN IN ST. MARY’S www.stonewillow.com

Stone Willow Inn, in picturesque St. Mary’s is the perfect setting for your destination wedding close to home. Beautiful outdoor ceremony sites for weddings and events, exquisite cuisine, small and large weddings, from simple and intimate to extravagant and elegant, exceptional service. Whatever your style, they can help you achieve your dream wedding..

519-284-4140 | TENT WEDDINGS FOR UP TO 250 GUESTS | OUTDOOR CEREMONIES | ON/OFF-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

Photo, left, courtesy of Grosvenor Lodge, Heritage London

GROSVENOR LODGE

IN LONDON | www.grosvenorlodge.com A park setting in the heart of London, Grosvenor Lodge, is a 160 year old estate home and a favorite venue for intimate weddings. The Heritage gardens and beautiful wrap-around veranda are perfect for outdoor ceremonies and photos.

519-645-2845 | INDOOR RECEPTIONS 60 (SIT DOWN) TO 100 GUESTS | OUTDOOR TENT RECEPTIONS UP TO 120 GUESTS

56 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

features

Photo courtesy of Bingemans

WATERLOO REGION MUSEUM IN KITCHENER www.waterlooregionmuseum.com

Photo courtesy of Bordman & Bordman Photography

Photo courtesy of www.dufferinhall.ca

IN KITCHENER www.bingemans.com

IN LONDON www.dufferinhall.ca

BINGEMANS

Choose from the Willow Green Gazebo or the Freeport Church for your ceremony.

Bingemans has the flexibility, experience, and space options to suit any bride. With six banquet rooms on the Bingemans property including the Ballroom and Marshall Hall, there’s no shortage of possibilities. Bingemans is perfect for all sizes and styles of weddings. Bingemans grounds are a beautiful back drop for pictures to capture your special day.

519-744-1231 Ext. 2266 | 150 GUESTS (SIT DOWN) TO 300 GUESTS (COCKTAIL) | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

519-744-1231 Ext. 2266 | 6 CEREMONY & RECEPTION OPTIONS | 50-1600 GUESTS | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

Photo courtesy of Berkshire Club

Photo courtesy of www.hrmphotography.com

Experience the unique ambiance of the Grand Foyer with its soaring walls of Ontario Limestone, repurposed 19th-century barn timbers and dramatic skylights.

BERKSHIRE CLUB

IN LONDON berkshireclub@sifton.com www.sifton.com/residential/berkshire-club.html

BEST WESTERN® PLUS LAMPLIGHTER INN & CONFERENCE CENTRE

A venue for all of life’s special moments. The Berkshire Hall and McConnell Lounge offers an exclusive setting for up to 100 guests to celebrate with you. The lounge is the perfect location for an intimate fireside ceremony.

The professional Berkshire team will be on hand to personally assist you in planning your event from beginning to end. Their specialty is all in the details.

All-inclusive wedding packages for fifty to five hundred guests, Atrium ceremonies, elegant Ballroom, special accommodation rates, Wedding Planners on-site, customized menu selections, fantastic indoor photo shoot locations, décor options.

519-471-4590 | 100-120 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING

519-681-7151 | 50-500 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING

IN LONDON info@lamplighterinn.ca www.lamplighterinn.ca

DUFFERIN HALL

Located in the heart of London’s Historic Woodfield District, the Masonic Temple features three floors of banquet Halls, lodge rooms and meeting rooms for hosting events. The Masonic Temple’s popular “Red Room” features upper and lower balcony seating, tall ceilings and a unique cathedral setting.

This downtown London venue also offers the multi-use Dufferin Hall banquet hall which many couples treat as a blank canvas - neutral colours that can be decorated to suit a variety of wedding design palettes. Dufferin Hall is also equipped with full in-house night club LED theatre lighting.

519-439-5212 | UP TO 700 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING

Photo courtesy of www.adamskitom.com

CONCORDIA CLUB IN KITCHENER www.concordiaclub.ca

Even though Concordia Club is known for throwing one of the biggest and most famous annual Oktoberfest parties, it is also very popular to area couples as an incredible venue in which to host an elegant wedding reception.

From small and intimate to large and lavish events, Concordia Club gives personal attention to every detail to ensure a memorable wedding day. Indoor and outdoor ceremony options and plenty of parking also make this venue a great option, within minutes of downtown Kitchener.

519-745-5617 | UP TO 450 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 57

Photo courtesy of www.decoratingdreams.ca

IN KITCHENER www.stecklehomestead.ca

Steckle Heritage Farm is one of Waterloo Region’s most unique event facilities. Steckle Farm is a designated heritage property in the City of Kitchener dating to 1833. This beautiful property has the original farm infrastructure, the feeling of old fashion country and a perfect mix of modern amenities.

Photo courtesy of Golf’s Steakhouse & Seafood

Photo courtesy of Hessenland Country Inn

IN KITCHENER george@golfssteakhouse.com www.golfssteakhouse.com

IN ST. JOSEPH (ZURICH) www.hessenland.com

GOLF’S STEAKHOUSE & SEAFOOD

STECKLE HERITAGE FARM

Stunning view of the Grand River. Outdoor wedding ceremonies available with two private reception facilities to choose from. All inclusive packages with custom created menus to suit your individual needs and tastes. A reputation for exceeding expectations for over 35 years.

HESSENLAND COUNTRY INN

Combining history, countryside and European elegance for your wedding celebration. Gardens, gazebos, ponds, The Coach House Reception Hall and Garden Roomyour destination wedding on Ontario’s West Coast!

They even have their own wedding planning APP!

519-744-1231 Ext. 2266 | 150 TO 165 GUESTS | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

519-579-4050 | 40 TO 250 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING

1-866-543-7736 or 519-236-7707 | COACH HOUSE 180 GUESTS | GARDEN ROOM 70 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING

Photo courtesy Best Western® PLUS Stoneridge Inn and Conference Centre

Photo courtesy of www.shutter-fotos.com

Photo courtesy of Elsie Perrin Williams Estate, Heritage London

IN INGERSOLL specialevents@elmhurstinn.com www.elmhurstinn.com

IN LONDON www.elsieperrinwillamsestate.com

BEST WESTERN® PLUS STONERIDGE INN AND CONFERENCE CENTRE IN LONDON www.stoneridgeinn.ca

ELM HURST INN

Exceptional cuisine, innovative customized menus, three elegant banquet rooms with fabulous stone fireplaces, outdoor waterfall gardens, unique individual wedding packages, newly remodeled hotel rooms, century old “Rose Chapel,” personal Wedding Coordinator.

Home to many gorgeous weddings and photo shoots. Elm Hurst Inn is a picture perfect venue for indoor or outdoor celebrations. Located in Ingersoll, the Elm Hurst Inn features unique reception spaces and beautifully manicured grounds. At Elm Hurst Inn, you can expect allinclusive wedding packages. On-site Wedding Coordinator. Inspired by tradition since 1872.

519-652-6022 | UP TO 120 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING ONLY

1-800-561-5321 ext. 236 | 4 TO 230 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING

58 • The Wedding Ring Magazine { ONTARIO } | www.theweddingring.ca

ELSIE PERRIN WILLIAMS ESTATE

Elsie Perrin Williams Estate, run by Heritage London, allows the bride and groom to indulge in the unique luxury of having a gorgeous century-old mansion to themselves for their entire wedding day. Beautiful and timeless, Elsie Perrin Williams Estate can be a perfect locale for a wedding day. With a reputation for upscale weddings - indoors and out - this venue books quickly! A beautiful new garden gazebo has been built to enhance the property and offers a very special romantic setting for your service 519-432-6620 OR 519-432-7961 | INDOOR WEDDINGS FOR 80 TO 120 GUESTS | OUTDOOR TENT WEDDINGS FOR 100-150 GUESTS

Photo courtesy of www.novamarkina.com

Photo courtesy of www.one2onephotography.ca

Photo courtesy of www.randydunlopphotographs.com

IN LONDON dunger@londonclub.com www.londonclub.com

formally known as The Cutten Club IN GUELPH info@cuttenfields.com www.cuttenfields.com

IN DORCHESTER www.pineknotgolf.com events@pineknotgolf.com

For exquisite cuisine, exceptional service and elegant ambiance. The London Club has it all!

177 Queens Avenue - London’s most prestigious address awaits your special day. There are six wedding worthy spaces within the club to choose from, making this the perfect choice for any couple looking to marry in the heart of London.

Cutten Fields has been home to the community’s most prestigious weddings & events for over 80 years. The picturesque golf course and clubhouse, complete with elegant modern halls, makes the perfect venue for both indoor and outdoor wedding ceremonies and receptions.

519-434-6889 | 5 CEREMONY & RECEPTION OPTIONS | 5 TO 160 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING ONLY

519.824.2650 | BALLROOM RECEPTION | 10 TO 250 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING ONLY

Photo courtesy of www.davidiam.com

Photo courtesy of Sunningdale Golf & Country Club

LONDON CLUB

STRATFORD COUNTRY CLUB IN STRATFORD jessie@stratfordcountryclub.com www.stratfordcountryclub.com

CUTTEN FIELDS

SUNNINGDALE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB IN LONDON www.sunningdalegolf.com

A beautiful backdrop for any style of wedding. Indoor and Outdoor ceremony locations and indoor reception space with fabulous menu and décor options and views overlooking the eighteen hole golf course. You receive two rooms for the price of one and a service team that goes above and beyond to make your day memorable.

Sunningdale Golf & Country Club is a dream setting for any wedding. The club offers professional consultants, an elegant hall for up to two hundred guests, several décor options, a customizable dance floor and a state of the art sound system. Sunningdale is also home to a creative Chef who comes to the table with over 15 years experience and offers creative menus. Sunningdale offers full bar service as well.

519-271-4212 | 150 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING

519-660-8063 | 200 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING

PINE KNOT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Pine Knot Golf & Country Club is an incredible venue who’s entire team strives to go above and beyond your expectations. Pine Knot offers a picture-perfect setting with amazing views from a raised outdoor terrace. This venue is well known for outstanding food and impeccable service. Pine Knot features a private dressing room and ceremony complementary when you book your wedding.

Pine Knot Golf and Country Club is the perfect setting for your ceremony, pictures cocktail hour and reception.

All inclusive packages and customizable options available.

519-268-2986 | BAR SERVICE

|

125+ GUESTS | FULL ON-SITE CATERING

Photo courtesy of www.passionateaboutpictures.com

WATERLOO INN IN WATERLOO wdallner@waterlooinn.com www.waterlooinn.com

All “INN” One Venue! Imagine the convenience, relaxing in one location, from rehearsal to reception!

Rehearsal, rehearsal dinner, overnight suites for bridal party, in-suite mani’s & pedi’s, make-up and hair, ceremony, dinner and reception, overnight guestrooms and honeymoon suite, Sunday brunch!

519-884-0220 | 155 GUESTROOMS | VARIETY OF VENUES FOR DINNERS AND RECEPTIONS FOR 20-500 | HOST OR CASH BAR | CREATIVE MENU OPTIONS GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 59

Photo courtesy of Bingemans

Photo courtesy of www.theeventfirm.ca

Photo courtesy of www.incrediblememoriesphotography.com

IN CAMBRIDGE www.rosevilleestate.com

IN KITCHENER www.bingemans.com/catering/venues/the_tannery

IN DELAWARE www.oaksgolf.com

The gorgeous, private Roseville Estate built in the 1800’s offers a beautifully crafted interior, lush forested areas, a waterfall, barn and more.

This enchanting setting is perfect for an intimate ceremony followed by memorable pictures, a casual pre-dinner cocktail reception and an elegant meal. Roseville Estate brings the traditional and country bride together in perfect harmony.

The Tannery has been revitalized from a turn-ofthe-century mill to a contemporary trend setting district with exposed brick, wooden beams, and soaring ceilings. The venue is rustic, urban and chic and can compliment any theme, décor and flowers. Let your photos be the backdrop for your event with state of the art digital media walls.

The Oaks Golf Club in Delaware Ontario offers a picturesque setting surrounded by tall oaks, rolling greens and ponds, landscaped patio for cocktail receptions or ceremonies, elegant Banquet Hall for 150 guests, exceptional cuisine, first class service, dedicated professional staff.

519-744-1231 Ext. 2266 | UP TO 150 GUESTS | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

519-744-1231 Ext. 2266 | 100 TO 250 GUESTS | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

519-652-1760 | 140-150 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING

ROSEVILLE ESTATE

THE TANNERY

THE OAKS GOLF CLUB