The Wedding Ring Magazine | COVID Edition

JANUARY 2021 Vol 14 No 1

MAGAZINE | WEBSITE | EXPO | COMMUNITY

COVID Edition 38 PAGES OF DESIGN IDEAS

40 PAGES OF WEDDING WORTHY VENUES

CAKE, FLORAL, TUXES, GOWNS AND MORE

SIZE, STYLE, CAPACITY, CATERING OPTIONS & MORE!

BRIDAL SHOW CALENDAR

TOP STAYCATION DESTINATION WEDDING LOCATIONS 17 PAGES OF COVID WEDDING PLANNING ADVICE

VIRTUAL WEDDING SHOWS FROM SARNIA TO TORONTO, BRANTFORD TO ORILLIA & BEYOND

22 REAL WEDDING STORIES

WWW.THEWEDDINGRING.CA

TORONTO ♥ BRANTFORD ♥ HAMILTON ♥ GUELPH ♥ KITCHENER-WATERLOO ♥ CAMBRIDGE ♥ WOODSTOCK LONDON ♥ HURON COUNTY ♥ STRATFORD ♥ NEWMARKET ♥ MILTON ♥ BARRIE ♥ SARNIA ♥ ORILLIA

Contents

p61

p96-97

Destination Mexico p26-27 Kissed the Girl p28-29 Warm Winter Love p32

FEATURES

Local Wedding Experts p6-8 Bridal Show Calendar p121 Wedding Worthy Venues p123-162

REAL WEDDINGS P9-32

Four Leaf Clover p10-11 Elegant Industrial Barn Wedding p12 One Love p13 Jewel Tone Beauty p14 A COVID Union p15 Until the Very End p16-17 Beauty of the Barn p18-19 Modern Romeo & Juliet p20-21 Stars Hollow in the Fall p22-23 Simple, Intimate, Perfect p24-25

p38

4 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

p49

Puppy Love p49 Summer Romance p50-51 Woodsy Boho p52 Inspired Backdrops p53 Divine Tablescapes p54 DESIGN PALETTES P33-70 Favourite Tuxes: Collins Formal Wear p34 Winter Wonderland p55 Canadian, Curvy, Exclusive p56-57 Flaunt those Accessories p35 Custom Beauty p58-59 'Til Death do us Part p36 Estate Beauty p60 Bridal Bouquets to Inspire p38 Spring into Fall p61 Henkaa Spring/Summer 2021 Collection Dare to Dream Bridal Gowns p62-63 p39 All that Glitters p64 2021 Bridal Gowns to Start Dreaming Rustic Fall p65 About p40-41 Wedding Arch Inspiration p66 Boho Rocker p42-45 Style Savvy Accessories p67 Falling in Love p46 Favourite Cake Designs p68-69 Love is Sweet p47 Emerald Beauty p48 BridesMade: The Classic Collection p70

p18-19

p55

JANUARY 2021 PUBLISHED BY Wedding Ring Inc.

team@theweddingring.ca The Wedding Ring Magazine is normally published two times yearly: January and September. This digital edition is The Wedding Ring’s 27th issue of the magazine. theweddingring.ca/magazine

MAGAZINE TEAM

Anne Warren | anne@theweddingring.ca Publisher | Director of Operations Kristen Sullivan | kristen@theweddingring.ca Managing Editor | Layout & Advertisement Design Coordinator Jessica Ferguson | jessica@theweddingring.ca Features Editor Jessica Catarancuic | team@theweddingring.ca Assistant Layout & Design

COVER STORY

PHOTOGRAPHY: Anne Edgar Photography & Film (♥) (anneedgarphoto.com) Cambridge, ON LOCATION: Banff Full story p84 The statements, opinions and points of view expressed do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, advertisers or Wedding Ring Inc. Photographs and content are submitted to Wedding Ring Inc. by wedding professionals for the purpose of publishing online and/or in print and are used with permission.

All images are provided by the vendor who submitted the article.

Our best effort has been made to appropriately credit all images. Any errors or omissions are not the responsibly of Wedding Ring Inc. Images with errors or omissions will be corrected or removed. © 2021 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

FOREVER IN LOVE AT THE RING

At The Wedding Ring, we research, create and curate quality, needto-know wedding content, year-round, alongside our clients, who just happen to be some of Ontario’s most talented wedding experts.

We then deliver it all in print (THE WEDDING RING MAGAZINE) and online (THEWEDDINGRING.CA) to a geographically targeted bride and groom audience. As a result, our clients book more weddings and our readers find it easier to plan the ultimate local wedding.

And on the odd chance you ever find Anne, Kristen, Jess and the team at The Wedding Ring more than a few feet away from their WiFi connections, it’s likely because you’re at one of THE RING’S WEDDING EXPO events which take place seasonally in 12+ cities across Ontario. These are couture bridal shows filled with over the top exhibits, live design palettes, and many (many, many!) engaged couples.

If you’re a wedding professional who offers products that every bride or groom should have, raises the bar on service or rewrites the definition of couture, we’d love to work with you - online, in print, and/ or in person. The Wedding Ring will help you reach your target brides and grooms, share (and show off) your expertise, grow your business and make headlines.

To find out more about how content marketing, online advertising, or exhibiting at the Ring's Wedding Expo in your city can change the way you approach wedding marketing: contact team@theweddingring.ca & visit www.theweddingring.ca

Contents

p154

EXPERT TIPS P71-100

Minimony, Microwedding, or Elopement p72 Trending: Streaming your Wedding p73 Look Naturally Flawless on your Wedding Day p74 5 Tips for Wedding Gown Shopping during COVID p75 Choosing a Master of Ceremonies p76 Q&A: Why Choose a Custom Gown p77 5 Tips to Hiring a Wedding Photographer p78 Fun Foods for Your Wedding p80 6 Tips to Hiring an Officiant p81 5 Wedding Cake Tips No One Tells You p82 Gift Yourself a Wedding Photoshoot p84 Cocktail Weddings Post COVID p85

p116

p42-45

Smart Planning Leads to Streee-free Wedding Days p86 COVID Invitation Rtiquette p88-89 COVID and Your 2021 Eedding p90-91 10 Tips for Cake During a Pandemic p92-93 The Long Way to Happily Ever After p94 Maximizing Your Accessories for a Micro Wedding p96-97 The Perfect Wedding Flow p98 What is a Pop Up? And Why is it Awesome? p99

TOP CANADIAN STAYCATION DESTINATIONS P101-107

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort p102 Ticklebelly Hill p103

p56-57

p104

The Lake House p104 Rustic Weddings at High Country Tree Farm p105 Rockwater Secret Cove Resort p106 Fogo Island Inn p107

TOP ONTARIO STAYCATION DESTINATIONS P108-118

Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory p110 Oakwood Resort p112 Queen's Landing p113 The Gananoque Inn & Spa p114 Aquatopia Conservatory p115 Hessenland Inn & Schatz Winery p116 Nature's Oasis Retreat p118 Stonefield Estate p119

p48 p89

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 5

Local Wedding Experts CAKE

DECADENTLY YOURS (519) 265-5314 | info@decadentlyyours.ca www.decadentlyyours.ca Reviewed in Guelph section of The Ring

CATERERS

BINGEMANS 519-744-1231 ext. 2260 | weddings@bingemans.com www.bingemans.com Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring LITTLE MUSHROOM CATERING 226-791-4537 | info@littlemushroomcatering.com www.littlemushroomcatering.ca Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring

DÉCORATORS

DECORATING DREAMS 519-662-6880 | decoratingdreams@golden.net www.decoratingdreams.ca Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring DEVINE WEDDING DESIGN 519-348-4191 | info@devineweddingdesign.ca www.devineweddingdesign.ca Reviewed in London section of The Ring FIRST STOP WEDDING DECOR RENTALS 519-717-6616 | firststopweddingdecor@hotmail.com Reviewed in Brantford section of The Ring FRESH LOOK DESIGN 519-954-8978 | info@freshlookdesign.ca www.freshlookdesigninc.com Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring JULIA WEDDINGS 519-894-0727 | julia.weddings@yahoo.com www.juliaweddings.ca Reviewed in KW section of The Ring NOW & ALWAYS 519-302-0398 | cynthia@nowandalways.ca www.nowandalways.ca Reviewed in Brantford section of The Ring

DJ'S + LIVE MUSIC

ALLEGRO PRODUCTIONS 519-221-2798 | allegroproductions@outlook.com www.allegroproductions.ca Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS 226-444-9639 | yashar@cmusic.ca www.cmusic.ca Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring

6 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

LOOPS N JAMZZ DJ PRODUCTIONS 519-502-5631 | info@loopsnjamzzdjs.com www.loopsnjamzzdjs.com Reviewed in Stratford section of The Ring MAXIMUM MUSIC DJ SERVICE 416-255-2910 | rod@maximumdj.com www.maximumdj.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring MUSIC CENTRAL ENTERTAINMENT 519-680-0698 | musiccentral@musiccentral.ca www.musiccentral.ca Reviewed in London section of The Ring THUNDERSTORM PRODUCTIONS 519-741-2005 | info@thunderstormpro.com www.thunderstormpro.com Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring

FAVOUR + GIFTS

LONDON HEALTH SCIENCES FOUNDATION 519-685-8070 | celebrationgiving@lhsf.ca www.lhsf.ca/weddings Reviewed in London section of The Ring ONTARIO SPCA 1-888-668-7722 | donate@ospca.on.ca www.ontariospca.ca Reviewed in Newmarket section of The Ring

FLORIST

FRESH LOOK DESIGN 519-954-8978 | info@freshlookdesign.ca www.freshlookdesigninc.com Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring JULIA WEDDINGS 519-894-0727 | julia.weddings@yahoo.com www.juliaweddings.ca Reviewed in KW section of The Ring

GOWN + FORMAL WEAR

BEST FOR BRIDE Toronto 647-430-7498 | Etobicoke 416-233-3393 Barrie 705-503-3300 | Hamilton 289-755-0262 www.bestforbride.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 519-753-9609 | info@bridal-boutique.ca www.bridal-boutique.ca Reviewed in Brantford section of The Ring CRÈME COUTURE 519-763-2011 | info@cremecouture.ca www.cremecouture.ca

Reviewed in All cities of The Ring SEW STYLISH WEDDING WORKS 519-485-7097 | sewstylishweddingworks@outlook.com www.sewstylishweddingworks.com Reviewed in London section of The Ring

INVITATIONS

INK & VELLUM hello@inkandvellum.ca @inkandvellum_

LIMO + TRANSPORTATION

BRENTWOOD LIVERY 519-741-5700 | info@brentwoodlivery.ca www.brentwoodlivery.ca Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring

MINISTER + OFFICIANTS

BEVERLEY SORBARA 519-938-7650 | sorbarabeverley@gmail.com WOVEN THREADS - HANDCRAFTED CEREMONIES 519-823-0038 | christine@woven-threads.ca www.woven-threads.ca

PHOTOGRAPHY + FILM

A NASH PHOTOGRAPH 226-218-6870 | anashphotograph@gmail.com www.anashphotograph.com Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring ANNE EDGAR PHOTOGRAPHY 519-616-2214 | anne@anneedgarphoto.com www.anneedgarphoto.com Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring BRIAN LIMOYO PHOTOGRAPHY 519-781 9448 | infophoto@brianlimoyo.com www.brianlimoyoweddings.com Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring ELEMENT FUSION STUDIOS 866-807-3167| info@elementfusion.ca www.elementfusion.ca Reviewed in Newmarket section of The Ring GARY EVANS PHOTOGRAPHY 519-222-5840 | team@gary-evans.ca www.gary-evans.ca Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring HRM PHOTOGRAPHY 519-936-8977 | info@hrmphotography.com www.hrmphotography.com Reviewed in London section of The Ring

LATTE PRODUCTIONS WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY 519-745-8368 | info@latteproductions.ca www.latteproductions.ca Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring SPIRITS INTRIGUED PHOTOGRAPHY 519-721-5468 | alex@sipimage.com www.sipimage.com Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring

PLANNING + BUDGET

THE FINANCIAL DIVA 519-350-1702 | risa@thefinancialdiva.ca www.thefinancialdiva.ca Reviewed in ALL cities of The Ring LOVELY WEDDINGS & EVENTS 519-577-2572 | hello@lovelyweddingsandevents.ca www.lovelyweddingsandevents.ca Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring SERVERS WITH A SMILE 519-721-5424 | events@serverswithasmile.ca www.serverswithasmile.ca Reviewed in KW section of The Ring

TRAVEL

DESTINATION DREAM VACATIONS 519-990-1279 | destidream@gmail.com www.destinationdreamvacation.ca Reviewed in ALL cities of The Ring VIVA WYNDHAM RESORTS 1-800-996-3426 | groups@vivaresortsusa.com www.vivawyndhamresorts.com Reviewed in ALL cities of The Ring

VENUES

ANCASTER MILL 905-648-1828 | info@ancastermill.ca www.ancastermill.ca Reviewed in Hamilton section of The Ring ARCADIAN COURT BY OLIVER & BONACINI 416-364-1211 | events@oliverbonacini.com www.oliverbonacinievents.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring THE ARTS & LETTERS CLUB 416-597-9544 | catering@artsandlettersclub.ca www.artsandlettersclub.ca Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring BEAVERDALE GOLF CLUB 519-658-5951 ext. 22 hospitality.beaverdale@golfnorth.ca www.golfnorth.ca/beaverdale Reviewed in Cambridge section of The Ring BERKELEY FIELD HOUSE 416-361-9666 | info@berkeleyevents.com

www.berkeleyfieldhouse.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring BEST WESTERN PLUS ARDEN PARK HOTEL 519-275-2936 | ardenpk@orc.ca www.ardenpk.on.ca Reviewed in Stratford section of The Ring BEST WESTERN BRANTFORD HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE 519-753-8652 ext. 142 events@bestwesternbrantford.com www.bestwesternbrantford.com Reviewed in Brantford section of The Ring BEST WESTERN PLUS LAMPLIGHTER INN & CONFERENCE CENTRE 519-681-7151 | sales@lamplighterinn.ca www.lamplighterinn.ca Reviewed in London section of The Ring BEST WESTERN PLUS STONERIDGE INN AND CONFERENCE CENTRE 519-652-6022 | natalie@stoneridgeinn.com www.stoneridgeinn.com Reviewed in London section of The Ring BINGEMANS 519-744-1231 ext. 2268 | weddings@bingemans.com www.bingemans.com Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring BOB RUMBALL MANOR 416-449-9651 x 103 | jbursa@bobrumball.org www.bobrumballmanor.org Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring CAMBRIDGE BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY 519-653-1234 x 112 weddings@cambridgebutterfly.com www.cambridgebutterfly.com Reviewed in Cambridge section of The Ring CAMBRIDGE MILL 519-624-1828 | info@cambridgemill.ca www.cambridgemill.com Reviewed in Cambridge section of The Ring THE CARLU 416-597-1931 | events@oliverbonacini.com www.thecarlu.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring CARADOC SANDS 519-878-7882| weddings@caradocsands.ca www.caradocsands.ca Reviewed in Sarnia section of The Ring CASA LOMA 416-923-1171 | events@casaloma.ca www.casaloma.ca Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring

CHELSEA HOTEL TORONTO 416-585-4340 cstor.weddings@chelseatoronto.com www.chelseatoronto.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring CONCORDIA CLUB 519-745-5617 x 101 | ruth.rajna@concordiaclub.ca www.concordiaclub.ca Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring CONESTOGA GOLF & CONFERENCE CENTRE 519-664-2851 x 227 hospitality.conestoga@golfnorth.ca www.golfnorth.ca/conestoga Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring CRAIGOWAN GOLF CLUB 519-462-2743 | info@craigowan.com www. craigowan.com Reviewed in Woodstock section of The Ring DANTE CLUB 519-542-9311 | gm@danteclubsarnia.ca www.danteclubsarnia.ca Reviewed in Sarnia section of The Ring DELTA HOTELS BY MARRIOTT GUELPH CONFERENCE CENTRE 519-780-3706 | kerrie.conlin@deltahotels.com www.marriott.com/ykfdg Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring DELTA HOTELS BY MARRIOTT WATERLOO 519-514-0404 | wat.sales.sm@deltahotels.com www.marriott.com/ykfdw Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring DOUBLETREE BY HILTON KITCHENER 519-893-1211 | stephanie.crombie@sunraygroup.ca Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring DUNDEE COUNTRY CLUB 519-696-3257 | mfloyd.dundee@golfnorth.ca www.golfnorth.ca/dundee Reviewed in Cambridge section of The Ring ELORA MILL HOTEL & SPA 519-846-8484 | events@eloramill.ca www.eloramill.ca Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring ENOCH TURNER SCHOOLHOUSE 416-314-3585 | bookings@heritagetrust.on.ca www.heritagetrust.on.ca Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring ESTATES OF SUNNYBROOK 416-487-3841 mansions@estatesofsunnybrook.com www.estatesofsunnybrook.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 7

FANSHAWE PIONEER VILLAGE 519-457-1296 rentals@fanshawepioneer village.ca www.fanshawepioneervillage.ca Reviewed in London section of The Ring FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON LONDON 519-681-0680 ext. 8338 catering@fourpointslondon.com www.marriott.com/yxufp Reviewed in London section of The Ring THE GEORGE BROWN HOUSE 416-314-3585 | bookings@heritagetrust.on.ca www.heritagetrust.on.ca Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring THE GRAND GUELPH BANQUET & EVENT CENTRE 519-824-5076 | info@thegrandguelph.ca www.thegrandguelph.ca Reviewed in Guelph section of The Ring GRAYDON HALL MANOR 416-449-5432 | concierge@graydonhall.com www.graydonhall.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring GRAYSON MILLS - WEDDINGS & EVENTS *Opening Spring 2021* (519) 854-4374 | info@graysonmills.ca Reviewed in Stratford section of The Ring GREY SILO GOLF COURSE 519-884-3556 x 224 kreinhardt.greysilo@golfnorth.ca www.golfnorth.ca/greysilo Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring HART HOUSE 416-946-7196 | weddings.harthouse@utoronto.ca www.harthouse.ca Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring HAUSER HALL 519-747-1138 | info@hauserhall.com www.hauserhall.com Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring HESSENLAND INN & SCHATZ WINERY 519-236-7707 | hessen@hessenland.com www.hessenland.com Reviewed in London section of The Ring 8 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

LIBERTY GRAND 416-542-3789 | info@libertygrand.com www.libertygrand.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring LIBERTY NORTH 705-728-3877 | info@libertynorth.ca www.libertynorth.ca Reviewed in Barrie section of The Ring MARIPOSA CRUISES 416-203-0178 | sales@mariposacruises.com www.mariposacruises.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring MARQUIS GARDENS HAMILTON 905-388-4411| deanna@marquisgardens.com www.marquisgardens.com Reviewed in Hamilton section of The Ring MILLER LASH HOUSE 416-287-7000 | millerlash@utsc.utoronto.ca www.millerlashhouse.ca Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring OAKWOOD RESORT 519-238-2324 | ktopham@oakwoodresort.ca www.oakwoodresort.ca Reviewed in Huron section of The Ring THE OLD MILL 416-236-2641 | info@oldmilltoronto.com www.oldmilltoronto.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring ONTARIO HERITAGE CENTRE 416-314-3585 | bookings@heritagetrust.on.ca www.heritagetrust.on.ca Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring PALAIS ROYALE 416-533-3533 | info@pegasushospitality.ca www.palaisroyale.ca Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring REBEL CREEK GOLF CLUB 519-634-8666 hospitality.rebelcreek@golfnorth.ca www.golfnorth.ca/rebelcreek Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring REVIVAL HOUSE 519-273-3424 | weddings@revival.house www.revival.house Reviewed in Stratford section of The Ring SPENCER’S AT THE WATERFRONT

905-633-7494 | info@spencers.ca www.spencers.ca Reviewed in Hamilton section of The Ring ST. GEORGE BANQUET HALL 519-884-0311 | gm@stgeorgehall.com www.stgeorgehall.com Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring STOREHOUSE 408 contact@storehouse408.com | www.storehouse408.com Reviewed in Cambridge section of The Ring STRATFORD COUNTRY CLUB 519-271-4212 | jjacob@stratfordcountryclub.ca www.stratfordcountryclub.ca Reviewed in Stratford section of The Ring THEMUSEUM 519-749-9387 | victoria.wood@themuseum.ca www.themuseum.ca Reviewed in K-W section of The Ring TORONTO BOTANICAL GARDEN 416-397-1349 | info@torontobotanicalgarden.ca www.torontobotanicalgarden.ca Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring TORONTO CENTRE FOR THE ARTS 416-733-9388 | customerservice@tolive.com www.tocentre.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring TORONTO MARRIOTT CITY CENTRE HOTEL 416-341-7100 | sales@torontomarriott.com www.marriott.com/yyzbr Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring WATERLOO REGIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION 519-622-0771 | jackie@wrpa.org www.wrpa.org Reviewed in Cambridge section of The Ring WESTIN HARBOUR CASTLE HOTEL 416-869-1600 | westintorontosales@westin.com www.westinharbourcastletoronto.com Reviewed in GTA section of The Ring WHISTLE BEAR GOLF CLUB 519-650-2327 | info@whistlebear.ca www.whistlebear.ca Reviewed in Cambridge section of The Ring

Real Wedding Stories Real Wedding Stories feature the love stories, designs, and details of some of our favourite weddings. These gorgeous events are the result of alot of planning by local brides & grooms, and the hard work of some seriously talented wedding experts. Curated by The Ring.

PHOTO: Gary Evans Photography (www.gary-evans.ca) Kitchener, ON VENUE: Langdon Hall (www.langdonhall.ca) Cambridge, ON BRIDE & GROOM: Cait & Mike Abramovitz WEDDING: October 11th, 2019 Full story: p24-25 WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 9

Four Leaf Clover

10 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

BRIDE & GROOM: Jessica & Cody McMullin WEDDING DATE: September 26th, 2020 LOCATION: Paletta Mansion (www.palettalakefrontmansion.com), Burlington, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: Judy Nguyen Photography (www.judynguyenphoto.com) Toronto, ON "She was outgoing, fun; and overall excited to shoot for us. We first did our engagement photos with her that turned out beautifully, and we just knew our wedding photos would be too. Judy captured every single moment that I could imagine from getting ready right to the “party” portion of the night. I am so happy she captured everyone that attended the wedding and we will cherish these photos for the rest of our lives."

GUEST #: 40 COLOUR PALETTE: Navy blue, gold and sage BRIDE ATTIRE: Heirlooms Bridal Shoppe (www.heirloomsbridal.com) Hamilton, ON GROOM ATTIRE: Tolo Clothier (www.toloclothier.com) Mississauga, ON

BRIDESMAID ATTIRE: David’s Bridal (www.davidsbridal.ca) Hamilton, ON DÉCOR & FLORAL: Westdale Florists (www.westdaleflorists.ca) Hamilton, ON DJ: Something Blue Wedding DJ (www.somethingblueweddingdjs.com) Toronto, ON PLANNER: Plum Street Events (www.plumstreamevents.com) Burlington, ON TELL US YOUR STORY: "Cody and I met through mutual friends back in 2018. We had both heard of each other many times but never acted on it until just after May 2/4 when we finally went on our first date.

The date was perfect! Cody picked me up at my house, took me for dinner, and gave me my first-ever four leaf clover. From that moment on we were inseparable and I officially moved into his place in September. The following September on the 26th, 2019, we moved into our first home together. It was such a huge step for the both of us but we were ready for the next chapter in our life. On October 9th, 2019, Cody and I went on a date night down

at Spencer Smith Park just to get out of our reno/paint clothes and to dress up. We had a lovely dinner. After dinner we went to the waterfront, and while standing in the middle on the compass, Cody got down on one knee and asked me to spend the rest of my life with him. From then until September 26th, 2020 there were many wedding shows and planning adventures as well as covid obstacles.

We are very fortunate that we were still able to have the wedding of our dreams during this time and for a moment the world felt normal again.” – J BIGGEST CHALLENGE: "The biggest challenge by far was COVID. There were so many ups and down with the ever changing restrictions right up until the day of the wedding. We had a lovely planner who helped us through these tough times and at the end of the day we got through our COVID wedding perfectly. We had a plan from the beginning that no matter what we were getting married on this day, even if it was only 5 people. Thankfully it turned out better than we thought." – J&C •

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 11

“When I tell people I recently got married, they ask “oh yikes, how did that go?” My response is that every day felt like a disaster, except for the day of the wedding. That day was perfect." - M

elegant Industrial Barn Wedding BRIDE & GROOM: Meghan & Brett Wingfield WEDDING DATE: July 11th, 2020 CEREMONY LOCATION: Cedarview Church, Paris, ON RECEPTION LOCATION: Industrial Barn on the family farm in Caistor Centre, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: Beatrice Elford Photography (www.beatriceelford.com) Hamilton, ON ORIGINAL GUEST #: 140 ORIGINAL PLAN: “Our original plan was to have the ceremony at my family church (Cedarview Church). The ceremony was to be short and simple, then have the guests tour downtown Paris while the family and couple portraits were being taken. Our reception venue was to be at Bethel Community Centre, which was only a 10-minute drive from downtown Paris. The guests could arrive early and play lawn games in the yard next to the venue, where they would be served charcuterie boards before dinner. There would be speeches, cutting of the ‘cake’ (Krispy Creme donuts!), a dance – typical wedding reception. Then have the guests line up for a sparkler send off when we leave.” – M COLOUR PALETTE: Seinna (rust orange), copper, greenery 12 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

DÉCOR: Now and Always Special Event Decor (♥) (www.nowandalways.ca), Paris ON CATERING: Giles Catering (www.cateringbrantford.com) Brantford, ON VIDEOGRAPHER: Cinema120 (www.cinema120.ca) Paris, ON FINAL BUDGET: $20,000 TELL US YOUR STORY: "When everything started shutting down in March and April and the gathering numbers weren’t going back up we had to make our first decision: postpone or stick with July 11th? We decided to stick with our date and hope for the best. I continued to plan, ordering accessories, etc. – anything I knew we would need whether there were 100 people or 5 people.

When things opened up a bit in May, we re-planned the entire wedding to be a “drive-in ceremony”. We changed the location to our family farm out in the country, measured the backyard to make sure there was enough space for cars, looked into renting speakers, etc. I worked with my mom (also my decorator) constantly through every change to come up with unique décor to match each scenario. We were ecstatic when on June 13th (my birthday!) Ontario

opened up to allow ceremonies in churches at 30% capacity.

This meant that all of our guests who were originally invited were able to attend the ceremony, with the exclusion of family and friends living out of province. This meant we were able to stick with the original décor plan as well.

Our reception venue was still closed due to the pandemic, so we did have to find an alternative for that. One week prior to our wedding date, we decided to have a small reception at our family farm in a workshop on the property that had just been completed. We were able to have immediate family and our wedding party in attendance and purchased everything we needed to ensure we were complying with all the new COVID-related guidelines After the ceremony, we took family photos outside of the church, and then headed to downtown Paris to take bridal portraits. While we did this, our family drove to the farm and played lawn games in the backyard. We had the reception as planned (charcuterie boards, donut tower, speeches, etc.), just on a much smaller scale. We didn’t have a dance with the guests, but we did have our first dance after dark outside with the guests around us in a circle holding sparklers.” – M •

GROOM & GROOM: Raymond & Levon "Omar"

One Love TELL US YOUR STORY: "We met on social media

be celebrating our second anniversary in Canada and

Darby

(Facebook) on October 15, 2014. Levon (whom I call

we just got the fantastic news that Raymond's 13 year

WEDDING DATE: December 8th, 2018

"Omar," which is his nickname), was in Jamaica and I

old daughter is going to come live with us here!” - R&O

LOCATION: Royal York United Church

was in Trinidad. We talked on Facebook for 8 months.

(www.ryru.ca) Etobicoke, ON

When I asked Omar to come live with me in Trinidad

BIGGEST CHALLENGE: "The biggest challenge

PHOTOGRAPHY: Rabbat Photography

for a better life, he was so happy to join me there, so

(www.rabbatphoto.com) Toronto, ON

on June 9, 2015, I bought him a plane ticket. We heard

"We chose Danielle to photograph our wedding

about seeking asylum in Canada, where we would have

because we knew her from Royal York United Church,

rights and a much better life as a gay couple. " - R

which helped sponsor us. My favourite photos were

Months went by in Trinidad and we got the good

the ones we took inside City Hall because it was nice

news that we could come to Canada! We were both

and warm in there, and we look like we are so in love

sponsored by Royal York United Church. We arrived on

(which of course, we are!). I also loved the group

August 22, 2018. We knew we wanted to get married the

photos inside the church with all of our closest friends.

first day we met, but we sadly could not get married in

We loved working with Danielle. She always had a

Trinidad, as they do not recognize same sex marriages.

big smile on her face and photographed all of the

The first day we arrived in Canada, we asked the church

important moments of our wedding day." - R

and they were delighted to marry us! They even helped

dark blue for a December wedding. We wish we had our

COLOUR PALETTE: "We chose dark blue and

us plan the wedding. Raymond is a wedding planner

wedding in the summer, when we could have found our

rose pink- the same colour as Raymond's mom's

and he chose the colours for the wedding. Thank you

colours more easily and of course, we also would have

wedding" - O

for taking the time to read our story. We are so happy to

had better weather and more sunshine."- R&O •

was working on Omar's train. I had to call my friend Giselle who is a drag queen and wedding planner in Amsterdam, who gave me tips and advice on how to make it." - R BEST MEMORY: "Our friend Gabriella, who is also a drag queen performed "And I Am Telling you I Am Not Going" by Jennifer Hudson at our reception in the basement of Royal York United Church." - R&O ADVICE, ONE COUPLE TO ANOTHER: "Try and plan your big day in the season that matches the colours you want! It was very hard to find rose pink and

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 13

Jewel Tone Beauty BRIDE & GROOM: Bridget & Christopher Sullivan WEDDING DATE: October 10th, 2020 LOCATION: Best Western PLUS Stoneridge Inn & Conference Centre (♥) (www.stoneridgeinn.com) & The Rose Chapel (www.rosechapel.ca), London, ON "We wanted a smaller intimate venue and one that could host both the ceremony and reception.

When we toured the Rose Chapel and Stoneridge reception space we were sold. Both spaces were exactly what we were looking for and were unique to other wedding venues in the London area.

Natalie made our experience so easy and enjoyable.

She was always quick to respond to any questions we had, especially throughout the pandemic when there were so many unknowns and changing restrictions, she always kept us updated. Stoneridge did a fantastic job managing the restrictions during the wedding. Our guests felt safe but also were able to have a great time. We are so thankful to Natalie and her team for everything they did for us during our journey." - B&C 14 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTOGRAPHY: Melissa Kerry Photography (@melissakerryphotography) London, ON ORIGINAL GUEST #: 120 ORIGINAL PLAN: “Our original vision was very similar to how our wedding turned out. The biggest change was the number of guests. We booked the Best Western Stoneridge Inn at the end of February just prior to COVID shutting everything down. I feel like if we hadn’t booked the venue prior to COVID it would have delayed our plans.” – B COLOUR PALETTE: Jewel tones with greenery BRIDE ATTIRE: Lavender Bridal (www.lavenderbridal.ca) London, ON HAIR: Hair by Amanda Fleming (@hairbyamandafleming) London, ON MAKEUP: Top Knots + Gloss (www.topknotsandgloss.com) London, ON FAVOURS: Pristine Olive (www.thepristineolive.ca) London, ON DÉCOR: Tulle Tyme (www.tulletyme.ca) London, ON FLORAL: McLennan Flowers

(www.mclennanflowers.com) London, ON CATERING: Best Western PLUS Stoneridge Inn & Conference Centre (♥) (www.stoneridgeinn.com) DJ: Music Central Entertainment (♥) (www.musiccentral.ca) London, ON FINAL GUEST #: 47 FINAL BUDGET: $25,000 TELL US YOUR STORY: "Chris and I met in 2013 while working on-site of a new LTC home my company was opening. Chris was working as a plumber and I was on the administrative team who was in the onsite trailer prior to moving into the building. Chris tells me that he first noticed me when I would come and go from the trailer. It wasn’t until we moved inside the building that I saw him. On his last day onsite we chatted and then a bit later he messaged me on Facebook and asked for my number. He asked me to a London Lightning basketball game and we have been together ever since. Family Day 2020 Chris and I went to his sister’s cottage up north.

While snowmobiling on the middle of the lake, he proposed and it was so beautiful!" – B&C •

A COVID UNION

BRIDE & GROOM: Jessica Lee & Monty Mak WEDDING DATE: August 23rd, 2020 LOCATION: Royal Canadian Yacht Club (www.rcyc.ca) Toronto, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: DA Photography (www.daphotostudio.com) Guelph, ON "Monty and

I know NOTHING about photography but the one thing that was important to me was having good photos. So I knew that we were going to need help and have someone that knew what they were doing to guide us. Dragi was a preferred vendor at our original venue and so we contacted him through the sales manager. We loved his energy and his work! Dragi knew the venue so well and had so many ideas that we knew we could trust him!" - J COLOUR PALETTE: "Burgundy mostly with some blush, green, and rose gold. We kept most things minimal as our venue really didn't need much more and we really didn't want to bring too much over on the ferry." - J SEAMSTRESS: The Village Seamstress (www.lvseamstress.com) Toronto, ON "Sarah helped make sure both of my second-hand dresses fit and were

comfortable." - J JEWELLERY: Loulabar (@loulajewels) Toronto, ON "I own very little jewelry so I needed help. Louisa was so nice and helpful in designing some clip on earrings - they didn't hurt despite 14 hours of being on!" - J FLORALS: St. Clair Flowers (@stclairflowers) Toronto, ON CAKE: Cake Crown (www.cakecrown.com) Toronto, ON "A 16 layer honey cake that was DELICIOUS and BEAUTIFUL! She's an artist - I let her design it any way she wanted." - J DJ: United Entertainment DJ (www.unitedentdj.com) Toronto, ON PLANNER: Karina Lemke Wedding & Event Design (www.karinalemke.com) Toronto, ON "She was a lifesaver. She helped guide us and basically plan a wedding in a month....during COVID!" - J BIGGEST CHALLENGE: "One word = COVID. COVID-19 definitely caused a lot of uncertainty and made it difficult to know what was going on. Things were changing daily and no one could tell us the plan. We started to ask the question all couples did in 2020: Do we wait and see what the news is? Go ahead with modifications? What were we even allowed? Postpone and hope for the best?

Trying to predict the situation was impossible. Eventually we did postpone from our original date in May to later in the summer. We came up with multiple back-up plans: having it at the original venue, having it in my parents back yard or the officiants yard. We also had multiple guest lists (if we could have 5 people vs 10 vs 25 vs 50).

It helped make it more manageable that we had a plan for most situations and that we were at least discussing it. It also helped that we had GREAT vendors and everyone was flexible. We did end up losing a few and having to find new vendors last minute but we're so lucky to have hired who we did." - J&M ADVICE, ONE COUPLE TO ANOTHER: "Figure out what's the most important things to both of you about that day and then just enjoy the rest of the process. I never dreamed of planning a wedding (my plan was to elope) so I didn't know what to expect. It can be overwhelming but remember no one is going to judge you for any choices.

Things may go wrong and in the end, the wedding might not be exactly how you planned or believed it would be but it will probably be even better than you dreamed." - J&M • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 15

...Until the very end

16 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

BRIDE & BRIDE: Victoria Sebben& Alora Keers WEDDING DATE: September 19th, 2020 LOCATION: Alora's parents house, Everett, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: Fedora Media (www.fedoramedia.com) Cambridge, ON COLOUR PALETTE: "We had a Harry Potter themed reception, with 4 long tables, each representing a Harry Potter house and a head table which had a colour from each house. It was important to us that the theme didn't come off as tacky, or confusing to non-Harry Potter fans, and our wedding decorator really helped with that. We had black table clothes, and the runners were in the house colours, so the theme was subtle but very much present. We knew we wanted to replicate the Great Hall as best we could. One of the most important things to us was the floating candles so we strung up battery powered candles from the ceiling which looked truly amazing at night. It really made the theme come together and our guests loved it. We folded over 60 chocolate frog boxes for all of the guests, made chocolate frogs, and trading cards with each of the wedding party to be distributed randomly to the wedding guests. Our seating arrangement was done in a way where guests found their name on a potion bottle with a shot in the colour of the house they would be sitting at. Our cake was also Harry Potter themed and was incredible.

We also had beer koozies made by a friend for all of

the guests with various phrases like "hufflebuzzed" "slurrtherin" etc." - V&A BRIDE ATTIRE: Helen's Bridal (www.helensbridalbarrie.com) Barrie, ON HAIR: The Cutting Edge, Alliston, ON MAKEUP: Kia's Beauty Salon (@kiamuahamilton) Barrie, ON DÉCOR & FLORALS: Barrie Flower (www.barrieflower.ca) Barrie, ON CAKE: Friend, Annette Cole CATERING: Big Bone BBQ (www.bigbonebbq.ca) Barrie, ON TELL US YOUR STORY: "We actually met through a mutual friend in 2014, but realized we had been playing hockey in the same areas for over 15 years. When we got engaged in 2018, we both knew we wanted to have a Harry Potter themed wedding at Alora's parents home. However, guest list obligations limited that possibility and we spent the next two years making absolutely no wedding plans. We actually had no intentions of getting married in 2020 at all and we were instead planning a year-long around the world trip, with flights booked for November 2020. We figured we would end up eloping somewhere along the way and just have a party when we got back which our parents naturally weren't thrilled about. Back in June 2020 we realized that the chances of getting to go on our world trip were very slim, so we decided to have a small 16-person ceremony at Alora's parents' house on September 19th, 2020 and a

destination wedding for March 2021. As such, the ongoing pandemic made planning a destination wedding pretty difficult, and we ultimately decided not to proceed with that. But the date of September 19th, 2020 became very significant to me as Alora's hockey number is 9, and mine is 19. So 09.19.20 became the date we HAD to get married and there was very little room for compromise.

Thankfully, Alora's parents graciously allowed us to increase the original 16-person guest list to a COVID-friendly 60 people, and we spent the summer getting the property ready for the wedding we had 2 months to plan! Our wedding planning actually went very smoothly considering the time crunch. Our parents were so happy the wedding was finally happening that they truly just dropped everything and let our wedding consume their lives for two months. As it turns out, the Ontario government also thought September 19th, 2020 was a special date, and decided to reduce social gatherings from 100 to 25 people, 4 hours prior to the wedding. Thankfully, there was a 24-hour grace period and we were able to carry on as scheduled but it was definitely the most stressful moment of the entire process and I almost fainted in the hair salon. All in all, the whole day was incredible, everything turned out beautifully, and it was truly the best day of our lives.” – V&A • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 17

Beauty of the Barn

18 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

BRIDE & GROOM: Taylor Scott & Dan Hurley

COLOUR PALETTE/THEME: Blue and grey

wedding planned for Spring 2020, Dan and I fell back

WEDDING DATE: June 13th, 2020

BRIDE & BRIDESMAID ATTIRE: Sophie's Gown

onto a back-up plan, and as circumstances progressed

CEREMONY LOCATION: The Lavender Farm

Shoppe (www.sophiesgownshoppe.com) London, ON

in the world, a second back-up plan soon fell into our

(www.thelavenderfarm.ca) Ayr, ON

GROOM & GROOMSEN ATTIRE: Moores Clothing

hands. Neither of us could have imagined that “Plan E”

RECEPTION LOCATION: Private Property

for Men (♥) (www.mooresclothing.com) London, ON

would be what actually happened on June 13th, 2020

PHOTOGRAPHY: Brian Limoyo Photography

HAIR: Creative Images Hair Studio

(♥) (www.brianlimoyoweddings.com) Kitchener,

(www.cihairstudio.ca) Woodstock, ON

ON "The Lavender Farm provided us with a list

STATIONERY: Pat's Pronto Print

of recommended vendors. As we were looking

(www.prontoprintsouthhaven.com) South Haven, MI

for bartenders, we came across Brian Limoyo as a

& Minted.ca

recommended photographer from Black Tie Affair

DÉCOR & FLORAL: Fresh Look Design Inc. (♥)

Hospitality (blacktieaffair.ca) New Dundee, ON. If

(www.freshlookdesigninc.com) Kitchener, ON

seeing Brian's talented portfolio online wasn't enough

CATERING: Chipotle (www.chipotle.ca) London,

to convince us he was the perfect photographer for

ON PIANIST: Vu Music

surprise, would end up being the most meaningful,

our wedding, his professionalism, generosity, and skill

CAKE: Family friend, Ewa Bieganski

incredible, and perfect day ever.” - D&T

showcased when we met in-person reassured us we

TELL US YOUR STORY: "When planning a wedding

BEST MOMENT: "Marrying my favourite person in

would not regret our decision." - D&T

and COVID hits, it’s inevitable that your initial plan is

the world but having Chipotle for our wedding meal is a

GUEST #: 25

no longer going to work. Like many couples who had a

close second!" - D&T •

but no matter how much more preparation we could have put into this day, it would have never turned out as perfect as it did. June 13th, 2020 will always be an incredible day for us. We look back on the wedding we had planned before COVID and thought it would be perfect. What we didn’t realize was that somehow the plan we didn’t even plan, the plan that was a complete

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 19

Modern Romeo & Juliet

20 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

BRIDE & GROOM: Tara & Trevor Cragg WEDDING DATE: April 4th, 2020 LOCATION: "Our friend's balcony where we met!"-T PHOTOGRAPHY: Kelsie Kathleen Photo + Cinema (www.kelsiekathleen.com) Guelph, ON GUEST #: 4 BRIDE ATTIRE: Sash & Bustle Bridal Boutique (www.sashandbustle.com) Toronto, ON GROOM ATTIRE: Outlooks for Men (www.outlooksformen.com) FLORAL: "My friend Lauren and I purchased the florals from a local grocery store and put the bouquets together the morning of the wedding." - T TELL US YOUR STORY: "We were unsure if we were going to even have a wedding amidst COVID, but decided that at the end of the day it was about our love story and commitment to each other. And we are so so happy that we did! We

ended up doing the ceremony with our two best friends while the rest of our friends and family watched over Zoom. We had quite the fairytale romance! I was introduced to Trevor through my best friend Lauren in Ontario (I live in British Columbia) and we met for the first time on December 12th. Two weeks (and one missed flight home later) we were engaged! I picked up my life to move to Ontario for 4 months while he ran his Osteopathy practice. 44 has always had a special meaning to us, so we knew we wanted to get married on 04/04/2020. It was such a magical day - albeit simple! We did the ceremony on Lauren's balcony - and she gave a speech at the beginning which moved us all to tears. We danced until sunset, and then our wedding reception dinner was Thai food from Skip the Dishes!" - T BIGGEST CHALLENGE: "Coming to terms with

the fact that our family couldn't be there. I always envisioned my Dad walking me down the aisle, and getting ready with my sister, mom, and girlfriends!

It took me awhile to be okay with the fact that they wouldn't all be there, as well as Trevor's family. We had a whole weekend event planned previously with renting an AirBnB and getting all the families together. Our parents haven't even met yet and we've been married for 8 months now!” - T BEST MEMORY: "The surprise video my friends and family made for us - it was people from all over the world lip-syncing to "Marry You" by Bruno Mars.

Definitely made me cry!" - T ADVICE, ONE COUPLE TO ANOTHER: "Just keep it simple - focus on the two of you and your life together. The day is just a tiny part of the big picture. In the end I'm so so glad we did it with just two friends and got to focus on each other all day." - T •

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 21

STARS HOLLOW IN THE FALL

22 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

BRIDE & GROOM: Jasmin & Colin Sanford WEDDING DATE: October 17th, 2020 LOCATION: Forest City National Golf Club (www.fcngolfclub.com) London, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: HRM Photography (♥) (www.hrmphotography.com) London, ON " I actually found HRM Photography while helping plan my best friend's wedding in 2019. We came across them at their booth at a wedding show and they just stood out in my mind. A year later when I was planning my wedding they were my first call." - J GUEST #: 30 COLOUR PALETTE/THEME: All things fall! Red, orange, yellow, and navy blue. "I would also call it Stars Hollows in the fall from Gilmore Girls!" - J BRIDE + BRIDESMAID ATTIRE: David's Bridal (www.davidsbridal.ca) London, ON GROOM + GROOMSMEN ATTIRE: Collins Clothiers (♥) (www.collinsclothiers.com) London, ON HAIR & MAKEUP: Dom Garito & Sam Yanch DÉCOR & FLORAL: Time 4 Flowers (www.time4flowers.ca) London ON STATIONERY: Zazzle.ca CAKE: Grandma's Oven (www.grandmasoven.com) Aylmer, ON

PLANNER: Sapphire & Lily Events (www.sapphirelily.ca) London, ON CATERING: Forest City National Golf Club (www.fcngolfclub.com) London, ON TELL US YOUR STORY: "We spent several months planning our wedding for the fall of 2020.

Everything had come together and was planned out when the global pandemic was announced. For months we held hope that we would be able to have the wedding that we dreamed of. However, as we all know this year has not gone the way any of us would have thought.

My husband and I made the difficult decision to scale back our entire wedding instead of postponing or canceling. We cut our guest list down from about 100 people to 30. We changed our reception to a dinner and moved it outside. We spoke to all our vendors to scale things back and they were all able to accommodate us with what we needed now. As we got closer to the wedding, the pandemic was getting worse and we were afraid that we may have to cancel the entire thing. Fortunately, our small wedding was able to happen with all the proper safety measures in place.

We spent the week before preparing and the day

before was spent setting up our venue, arranging the chairs for the ceremony, and decorations to achieve the perfect setting! I had great help from my day-of coordinator. She set up the remaining decorations exactly as I had imagined! I am forever grateful for her! Forest City National provided a lovely setting for a fall wedding, and Stephanie was great to work with as we had to re-plan our wedding.

Our ceremony was very intimate as we only had 30 guests attending. It made the ceremony feel even more special. There were tears, laughter, and sweet words exchanged that we'll remember for years.

Everything tied together perfectly! For us it really was a perfect day and after the year that we had, it was just the cherry on top!

Instead of the traditional reception we had a lovely dinner outside and some quality time with our friends and family that were able to attend. It was a short wedding but it allowed us to appreciate every moment even more. We are hoping to have our full reception in October of 2021 to be able to celebrate with all our friends and family together!" - J&C • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 23

Simple, Intimate, Perfect

24 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

BRIDE & GROOM: Cait & Mike Abramovitz WEDDING DATE: September 11th, 2020 LOCATION: Langdon Hall (www.langdonhall.ca), Cambridge, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: Gary Evans Photography (♥) (www.gary-evans.ca) Kitchener, ON "I had already been following Gary on Instagram before we had even started wedding planning. He was always the clear choice for us." - C GUEST #: 18 COLOUR PALETTE: Natural greenery "We let the scenery speak for itself. We were married outdoors under an archway of greenery. We incorporated colour into our outfits in subtle ways." - C BRIDE ATTIRE: Valentina Bridal & Couture (www.valentinabridal.ca) Waterloo, ON GROOM ATTIRE: Channer's Waterloo (www.channerswaterloo.com) Waterloo, ON HAIR & MAKEUP: Pino's Salon & Medi Spa (www.pinosalon.com) Kitchener, ON

DÉCOR & FLORAL: "We did the décor and flowers

siblings) and very close friends. We both got COVID tests

ourselves. I actually made the wedding arch from

before the wedding, and before returning to work (this was

a trampoline frame turned sidewise with legs

when asymptomatic testing was still encouraged). Guests

welded on, and artificial ferns and eucalyptus leaves

sat with their immediate households, and rows of seating

were attached to it. My maid of honour made our

were spaced over 6 feet apart." - C&M

bouquets from silk flowers I purchased online.

Mike's boutonnière was wrapped with a tuft of our dog's fur."- C CAKE: "Our cake was made by my friend Julie, who was at the wedding. She's an excellent baker who made us a two tier cake. Layer 1 was red velvet, layer 2 was carrot-pineapple cake. Both had a butter cream, cream cheese icing." - C TELL US YOUR STORY: "Our wedding was simple, intimate, and perfectly us. We were surrounded by loved

"On top of everything else going on in the world, Mike's suit rental arrived in damaged condition from the shop he was renting it from, so he ended up having to purchase a suit and have it custom tailored the night before our wedding. I also changed wedding dresses 8 days before the wedding, after deciding I wasn't happy in my original dress."– C BEST MEMORY: "Our playlist. I walked down the aisle to a string quarter version of "Snow" by Red Hot Chili

ones.” – C&M

Peppers. Our entire playlist was string quartet covers of

BIGGEST CHALLENGE: "Planning a wedding during

rock and metal songs." - C&M

a global pandemic! We did a micro-wedding outdoors

ADVICE, ONE COUPLE TO ANOTHER: "Don't

and guests wore masks to ensuring the safety of everyone.

sweat the small stuff, and roll with the punches. Life

We only celebrated with immediate family (parents and

happens, and mistakes happen too." - C&M •

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 25

Destination Mexico

26 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

BRIDE & GROOM: Josie Rao & Fuhai Van WEDDING DATE: November 22nd, 2019 LOCATION: Dreams Resort (www.dreamsresorts.com) Playa Mujeres, Mexico "Danielle, our sisterin-law found Judy Nguyen on Instagram and referred us. After seeing her portfolio online, Fuhai and I contacted Judy to setup a coffee meeting. Judy was so pleasant and funny in person, she felt like a cousin. Also, we loved her photographic style. So we decided to invite her to Mexico!" - J PHOTOGRAPHY: Judy Nguyen Photography (www.judynguyenphoto.com) Toronto, ON GUEST #: 50 COLOUR PALETTE: "We wanted to go with natural colours and fabrics seeing that it was an outdoor beach and water setting. The

palette was mostly white, cream, and blue." - J BRIDE ATTIRE: Custom made from a boutique bridal shop in Shanghai GROOM ATTIRE: J.Crew linen suit with fabric sourced from Portugal.

TELL US YOUR STORY: "When I first saw Fuhai, I thought he had a unique sense of style.

Dare I say hipster? He rocked a man-bun for crying out loud. LOL We worked on the same floor of a building but had only met in passing. Occasionally, I'd see him across the hall in fitted denim jeans, a pinkish-purple Ralph Lauren polo, and really, really well-worn leather wing-tip shoes! Oh, those awful shoes! One early morning on my way to work, I boarded the bus, and sat in the seat behind the bus driver ready for a nap. A few stops later with my eyes heavy and my head hanging, my eyes cracked

open and the first thing I saw were those worn-out (I mean vintage) shoes again! There he was, Fuhai in his note-worthy appearance saying "Hey, good morning, we work on the same floor, right?" And the rest is history. Charmed at first sight? I guess you can say that :)” – J BIGGEST CHALLENGE: "Finding a destination resort that made us and our guests feel special. Dreams Resort had a fantastic wedding team and were attentive to all our desires and planning needs. " - J BEST MEMORY: "Jumping in the pool fully clothed during our reception!" - J ADVICE, ONE COUPLE TO ANOTHER: "Enjoy the process and leave the details to the professionals." - J • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 27

kissed the girl

28 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

BRIDE & GROOM: Kayla Hiemstra & Jeremy Gravelle WEDDING DATE: October 26th, 2019 CEREMONY LOCATION: Disney's Wedding Pavilion, Walt Disney World (www.disneyweddings.com) Orlando, FL RECEPTION LOCATION: California Grill, Disney's Contemporary Resort (www.disneyworld.com) Orlando, FL PHOTOGRAPHY: Jess Collins Photography (www.jesscollinsphotos.com) Kitchener, ON “There is a Facebook group for Disney couples to help each other with the planning process, and the group has a list of recommended photographers. I loved Jess's photography style, and when I saw she was from Kitchener (only a couple hours from us in Sarnia), I knew I wanted to hire her! She was so much fun to work with and was able to make us feel totally comfortable in front of the camera. I love all of our wedding photos, and especially love the candid shots she was able to capture of us and our guests having a great time.” – K GUESTS: 90

COLOUR PALETTE: "Multiple colours; grey-blue, green, lavender, dusty pink, dusty blue, and gold.

Each bridesmaid wore one of these colours and each colour represented a different Disney princess.

BRIDE ATTIRE: Garber's Bridal (www.garbersbridal.com) London, ON GROOM + GROOMSMEN ATTIRE: Reno Fine Clothing (www.renofineclothing.ca) Sarnia, ON BRIDESMAID ATTIRE: Azazie.com HAIR & MAKEUP: Fairytale Hair & Makeup (www.fairytalehairandmakeup.com) Orlando, FL INVITATIONS: JLB Papery (@jlbpapery) New Hyde Park, NY DÉCOR, FLORAL, CAKE, DJ, PLANNER: Disney Fairytale Weddings (www.disneyweddings.com) Orlando, FL TELL US YOUR STORY: "Jer and I met through friends and after being friends for a couple of years, eventually started dating and fell in love.We both love travelling, concerts, and our pets, and we've always had fun together. We have been together for a long time now, and are best friends.

It had always been my dream to get married at Walt

Disney World, and after a trip there together in 2016, I convinced him a Disney World wedding would be amazing. We bought a house together in 2018, and that fall he proposed to me in front of a group of our friends and family at a Halloween party at our house.

I was dressed as Winnifred Sanderson and he was dressed as the devil! Wedding planning started right away, because we knew we wanted to get married the following October. Disney made the process so easy from the start. In Disney, we had two events leading up to the wedding day. We had a joint bachelor/ette party at Epcot, where we ate and drank around the World Showcase. The night before the wedding we held a "welcome party" in Disney Springs where our guests were able to meet and mingle.

On our wedding day, we had a beautiful morning ceremony at Disney's Wedding Pavilion, and then a super fun brunch reception at California Grill, where we danced the afternoon away. That evening, we held a "dessert party" at Epcot, where our guests were able to have dessert and drinks before watching the nighttime fireworks from a private viewing area. It was truly the best day ever." - K&J • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 29

PHOTO: matilyn.com

Warm Winter Love BRIDE & GROOM: Karen & Klaus Pirker

So we decided to hire Matilyn and it was the best

Briars so we were able to party till the end and no

WEDDING DATE: February 22nd, 2020

thing we ever did. Knowing we were looking for

one had to worry about driving home. I highly

LOCATION: The Brairs Resort & Spa

intimate, rustic, and romantic, they set about

recommend Matilyn if you want a memorable and

(www.briars.ca) Jacksons Point, ON

making this happen. They created a custom

worry free day, they can do it all!" - K

PHOTOGRAPHY: Ophra Alexandra Photography

design with our initials that we used on the dinner

DÉCOR & STATIONERY: Matilyn (www.matilyn.com)

(www.ophraalexandra.com) Newmarket, ON

menus, the place cards, our thank-you cards, and

Toronto, ON

GUEST #: 40

a very large wall piece that we later had framed for

FLORAL: Branching Out Florists

COLOUR PALETTE: "We decided on burgundy

our house. Catherine recommended renting more

(www.branchingoutflorists.com) Port Perry, ON

for our colour scheme and called Matilyn

rustic chairs than what the Briars was offering

CATERING: The Brairs Resort & Spa

(recommended by the Briars) to initially rent

and we went with her recommendation. It surely

(www. briars.ca) Jacksons Point, ON

burgundy tablecloths and napkins. I had a great

made a big difference in the ceremony room as

CAKE: Dainty Cakes by Monica

conversation with one of the owners, Catherine,

well as the dining room. They took care of all the

(@daintycakesbymonica) Keswick, ON

and found out that they could do so much more

details on the day of the wedding and Klaus and

BEST MEMORY: "From start to finish it was an

for us to help make our wedding the memorable

I were able to relax and enjoy the day knowing

awesome day/evening and everything went so smoothly.

event we wanted it to be. Besides being able to

that everything was well taken care of. It was the

There isn't anything we would do differently. And best

get us our tablecloths and napkins, Catherine and

wedding of our dreams. We enjoyed every last

of all, I married my best friend and look forward to

her husband are event designers and planners.

minute of it. Our guests all spent the night at the

many, many more happy years together.” – K •

32 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

Design Palettes The following thirty seven pages of design palettes are the result of collaborations between wedding industry experts and local brides and grooms. Curated by The Ring.

DÉCOR & FLORALS: Flower Frenzy (www.flowerfrenzyflorist.com) Hamilton, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: Erika Alvarenga Photography (www.erikaealvarenga.com) pg 50-51 WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 33

Style: Black - Allure Men

PHOTOS, this page: collinsclothiers.com

Style: Hunter

Style: French Blue - David Major Style: Light Grey -David Major

Style: Navy - David Major

FAVOURITE TUXEDO & SUITS: COLLINS CLOTHIERS With locations from coast to coast, Collins Clothiers (♥) (www.collinsclothiers.com) has you covered. Experience Canada's most modern formal wear collection for yourself. Tuxedos and suits in light grey, dark grey, navy, white, red, blue, ivory, and of course black, with Canada's widest rental tie and vest collection to match your needs!

34 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

FLAUNT THOSE ACCESSORIES

At Now and Always Paris (♥) (www.etsy. com/ca/shop/nowandalwaysparis)"Your wedding details are our passion. Offering 7 different lengths of carefully designed veils, in 5 stunning shades, that may be paired with any of our many hairpieces.

Everything from tear drop style hairpins to crystal hair vines and rhinestone combs. Find all your jewelry and wedding accessories at Now and Always Paris."

PHOTO: beatriceelford.com

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 35

{ STYLE SHOOT}

'til death do us part PHOTOGRAPHY: A Nash Photograph (♥) (www.anashphotograph.com) Cambridge, ON DÉCOR & FLORAL: Flowerzdesign (@flowerzdesign) Guelph, ON VENUE: Private Estate CALLIGRAPHY: Creations by Korga (@creationsbykorga) Guelph, ON CAKE & CUPCAKES: Stacked: The Wedding Cake Shop (www.stackedweddingcakes.com) Ayr, ON BRIDE + BRIDESMAIDS ATTIRE: Lidia's Brides (www.lidiasbrides.com) Fergus, ON 36 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

HAIR & MAKE UP: Divine Makeup Artistry (@dmabysara) Kitchener, ON MODELS: Sydney, Meghan & Stephanie DETAILS: "When Amy approached us to do a photo shoot with a dark, edgy colour palette we were excited to show her what we had been working on during the COVID downtime. We had been curating collections of rentable artificial bouquets, boutonnieres, and table centrepieces. She was just as excited as us and thought our "Violet" collection would work beautifully with her vision. It was the first time we had used artificial

florals for a photoshoot and we quickly realized the many benefits. Longevity being at the forefront that day as the shoot was entirely outdoors in the hot blazing sun. In addition to their durability, renting artificial bouquets is affordable, environmentally conscious and incredibly convenient. Clients can choose their florals well in advance and have their décor plan in place well before their day. Our mission is to provide professional, affordable, high quality florals to our clients. We are so excited to show our new collection in 2021." - Kathy, Flowerzdesign

BRIDAL BOUQUETS TO INSPIRE

Bridal bouquets are perhaps one of the most photographed wedding details and should express your personal sense of style, whether it's traditional, modern, romantic, whimsical, boho, or rustic.

Hailly Lucas Floral Design (www.haillylucas.com) Kitchener, ON has created this gorgeous gallery of colourful, textured, bridal bouquets to inspire you before the big day!

PHOTO: tomophotography.ca PHOTO: aimeenicolephotography.ca

PHOTO: haillylucas.com

PHOTO: arianadelmundo.com

PHOTO: jlpstudio.ca

38 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

Henkaa Spring/Summer 2021 Collection

Henkaa's (www.henkaa.com) Toronto, ON Spring/Summer 2021 Collection features a gorgeous minimalist palette pairing new colours Cinnamon Rose and Tan Mocha with perennial favourites Dusty Rose and Turquoise Teal.

Our bride is wearing the Iris Chiffon Convertible Wedding Dress, a sleeved multiway wrap dress that can be worn frontwards as a v-neck or backwards with a high, elegant neckline.

All dresses can be styled in 10+ different ways and are available in flexible size ranges from 0-24 that require little to no alterations. Dresses are available in 20+ colours and are Made in Canada with love!

PHOTOS, this page: ktchn.com

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 39

2021BRIDAL GOWNS TO START DREAMING ABOUT STYLE: Casablanca #BL356 40 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

These 2021 bridal gowns are beyond

STYLE: Casablanca #BL359

dreamy! With designers having just released their 2021 bridal collections, we have your first sneak peek here at what you can find at Sew Stylish Wedding Works (♥) (www.sewstylishweddingworks. com) in Ingersoll, ON this coming season!

STYLE: Kenneth Winston #1902

STYLE: Kenneth Winston #1896

STYLE: Madi Lane #17488 WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 41

{ DESTINATION STYLE SHOOT }

Boho Rocker PHOTOGRAPHY: Nadine McKenney Photography (www.nadinemckenneyphotography.com) Calgary, AB HAIR & MAKEUP: Sdny Rainbow (@rnbw.beauty) Calgary, AB CLOTHING: Durand Bridal (www.durandbridal.com) Calgary, AB GOWN: J'Adore Bridal Boutique (www.jadorebridal.com) Brooklet, GA FLORALS: Flower Aura By Natasha (www.floweraurabynatasha.com) Calgary, AB CAKE: Black Dog Bakery (www.blackdogbakery.ca) Calgary, AB VENUE: Starbelly Restaurant (www.starbelly.ca) Calgary, AB MODELS: Tyler & Tanisha "The styled shoot on the next 3 pages is a tribute to all of the couples that feel torn between a traditional wedding style and a more out of the ordinary wedding style. Combining two completely different feelings that still compliment each other was the main goal. Establishing a ying yang relationship between the trendy Bohemian look and a Rocker Grunge look. Specific details that helped mesh the two elements were the color choices, the dress, and the locations. The pink being quite lighthearted and romantic accented the black harder details in the attire. The dress had a removable skirt so switching between flowy and form fitted was super easy! And the locations were actually really important for our portraits. The graffiti wall had pinks to match our florals and the natural rock atmosphere was a little play on words with our "rocker" vibe. Pampas grass used on the ceremony circular arch is a very trending look right now and we chose a pink pampas grass to tie in the colour palette. Overall, it was amazing creating a wedding theme inspiration that is as diverse and unique as today's couples. This one's for you!"

- Nadine McKenney Photography • 42 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 43

44 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 33

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 45 33

PHOTOS, this page: decoratingdreama.ca

Falling in Love BRIDE & GROOM: Stacey & John WEDDING DATE: October 10th, 2020 LOCATION: Calerin Golf Course (www.golfnorth.ca/calerin) Erin, ON DÉCOR & DESIGN: Decorating Dreams (♥) (www.decoratingdreama.ca) New Hamburg, ON FLORALS: courtesy of the bride COLOUR PALETTE/THEME: Fall inspiration (burgundy/orange/yellow) "Many couples choose an autumn wedding for the weather - moody skies and moderate temperatures. Our favourite thing is the beautiful fall colours to choose from in designing the décor. We recently designed and decorated a COVID wedding of 38 people. Incorporating orange, burgundy and yellow, made up this cheerful wedding colour palette. Wood accents, pumpkins, and gourds when mixed with soft fabrics and bright florals, really brought this design to life." - Lori, Decorating Dreams • 46 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: alisonoliver.com

PHOTO: davidandkara.com

PHOTO: diannebrandonphotography.com

PHOTO: makeawishcakes.com

PHOTO: mariadenommephotography.com

Love is Sweet At Make A Wish Cakes (www.makeawishcakes.com) Exeter, ON every custom cake is created with passion. Only the best quality ingredients are sourced, including pure butter, Belgian chocolate, locally milled flours and fresh, rich whole milk and cream. Your choices are limitless: whether you envision an elegant tiered cake shared with family and friends or a sampling of your favourite cupcakes, cookies or squares. Because, you deserve the best! We encourage you to register for your wedding consultation and cake sampling now!

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 47

{ DESIGN PALETTE }

Emerald Beauty BRIDE & GROOM: Mawah & Alvin LOCATION: Lakeview by Carmen’s (www.carmenslakeview.com) Hamilton, ON DÉCOR, DESIGN & FLORAL: Elle et lui Events (www.elleetluievents.com) Brantford, ON COLOUR PALETTE/THEME: Rustic/Nature (burgundy, blush, green) BRIDE & GROOM CHAIRS: MMM Decor (www.mmmdecors.ca) Toronto, ON FURNITURE RENTALS: Higgins Event Rental (www.higginseventrentals.com) Toronto, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: Mr Koa (www.mrkoa.com) Mississauga, ON "I come from a Sierra Leonean background where weddings are very elaborate and luxurious. However, that has never been attractive to me. I've always been very simple in everything I do including my taste in clothes and make-up. I'm a strong believer that less is more.

I've always envisioned my wedding to be simple yet elegant with a taste of nature. I'm grateful for coming across Stephanie because she understood me from the beginning and was even more excited to execute my vision than I was. Stephanie ensured that I got everything I wanted and more. Walking in that day was like a dream... I wish I could relive our wedding day every year!" - Mawah • 48 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

{ STYLE SHOOT }

Puppy Love

VENUE: The Elora Mill (www.eloramill.ca) Elora, ON COLOUR/THEME: Coral and Blush, "Love for All, Big and Small" DESIGN, CONCEPT & COORDINATION: Satin and Slate Weddings (www.satinandslate.ca) Elmira, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: Jayne West Photo Co. (www.jaynewestphoto.com) Brantford, ON VIDEOGRAPHY: Merrily Married (www.merrilymarried.com) Toronto, ON DÉCOR: The Rose Gold Grand inc. (www.thergginc.ca) Hagersville, ON FLORALS: Hiway Flowers (www.hiwayflowers.ca) Kitchener, ON

PLACE SETTING: Plate Occasions (www.plateoccasions.com) Vaughan, ON CAKE: The Cake Box (www.cakebox.ca) Kitchener, ON STATIONARY: Red Bicycle Paper Co. (www.redbicyclepaperco.com) Cambridge, ON GOWN: Sophie's Gown Shoppe (www.sophiesgownshoppe.com) Kitchener, ON TUX: Collins Clothiers (www.collinsclothiers.com) Kitchener, ON HAIR & MAKEUP: Autumn Artistry Makeup and Hair (www.autumnartistrymakeupandhair.com) Hamilton, ON JEWELERY: Safara Designs (@safaradesigns) TRANSPORTATION: Clarks Carriages

(www.clarkscarriages.ca) Elora, ON "We created an animal lovers dream. We had everything from fish, and dogs, to a horse drawn carriage in this shoot. This fairytale didn't stop for anything.

We created a very feminine colour palette in a stone backdropped and blank canvas of the grand room in the Elora Mill. This brought so much light to the photos, and really brought a warm feeling. The spring colour of coral is a slight change from the 2020 blush colour, and really works well with the white elegance, and gold metal tones." - Satin & Slate Weddings • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 49

Summer Romance

50 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

{ BEACH WEDDING PALETTE } BRIDE & GROOM: Venessa & Jeff VENUE: Family beach house, Port Maitland, ON COLOUR: Blush and white DÉCOR & FLORALS: Flower Frenzy (www.flowerfrenzyflorist.com) Hamilton, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: Erika Alvarenga Photography (www.erikaealvarenga.com) Brampton, ON COORDINATOR: Confetti & Co. (www.confettiand.co) Kitchener, ON LIVE EVENT ARTIST: Olga Pankova (www.liveeventartist.ca) Toronto, ON GOWN: Kleinfeld Canada (www.thebay.com/editorial/kleinfeld) Toronto, ON TUX: Surmesur (www.surmesur.com) Toronto, ON

HAIR & MAKEUP: Makeup Worx (www.makeupworx.ca) Hamilton, ON MUSICIAN: Bella Marie (@bellsmarie_) "This wedding was originally set to be at another venue, but due to COVID was moved to the couples' family summer home in Port Maitland, Ontario on Lake Erie.

The bride wanted a romantic summer feel for her wedding with whites and pinks. Since the space that I had to work with was now a lot smaller, I made a few impactful floral pieces that could be moved around as backdrop pieces for the cou-

ple's photos. The first one was the arch decorated with southern smilax and pink roses. They used the arch for their ceremony and again as a backdrop piece for their reception. The pampas grass arrangements that lined the entrance of the aisle and used for several of their wedding photos, including their beach scene stunners.

Surrounded by close family and a few friends, the couple walked down the isle to a live acoustic singer, Bella Marie, and a live wedding painter, Olga Pankova. Although small, it was truly a memorable day." - Flower Frenzy • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 51

{ DESIGN PALETTE }

Woodsy Boho

BRIDE & GROOM: Kylee & Mackenzie WEDDING DATE: August 29th, 2020 LOCATION: Drysdale’s Tree Farm (www.drysdales.ca) Egbert, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: Heather Hugo Photography (www.heatherhugophotography.ca) Barrie, ON BRIDE ATTIRE: Willowby (www.watters.com/willowby) GROOM ATTIRE: Marks Work Warehouse (www.marks.com) & Moores Clothing for Men (♥) (www.mooresclothing.com) OFFICIANT: Irene McCombs (www.facebook.com/rev.irenemccombs) Wasaga Beach, ON "We just wanted simple, no fuss, do-it-yourself wedding that did not feel performed or stuffy. This was accomplished by just honestly having fun and not stressing at all. I was able to do everything myself and had fun doing so. COVID made us ready for anything so it was just very relaxed." - Kylee • 52 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTOS, this page:savethedatesarnia.ca

Inspired Backdrops A stunning backdrop can be used in various places throughout your wedding. Obviously a great backdrop has always been used at the headtable to frame the happy couple for the best pics. Lately we've seen couples choosing to incorporate a great backdrop in a photo booth type setting, creating beautiful spaces for their friends and family to take lovely photos of themselves as well as with the couple to commemorate this special day.

There are many great design options when searching for the perfect wedding backdrop. You'll want to coordinate your backdrop design with the rest of your wedding décor and theme. Some designs are very clean and simple while others are elaborate and over the top.

Backdrops can be created out of a wide range and mix of materials, including lights and fabric, florals and greenery, woods and metals can help you design the perfect backdrop to suit your wedding. Save the Date - Events & Décor (www.savethedatesarnia.ca) Sarnia, ON shares a few of her favourites. • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 53

Devine Tablescapes It’s time to build your wedding table place settings! Your guests spend a significant portion of the evening focused on your tables so you should spend a bit of time focusing on your place setting designs. Adding chargers, plates, glasses and flatware dresses up your look.

Devine Wedding Design (♥) (www.devineweddingdesign.ca) Mitchell, ON shows us two looks for your tables.

"This rustic industrial look (above) begins with a forest green Kenya floor length linen, anchored with black and brushed gold chargers.

From there smoked glassware with burlap textured napkins, black flatware, and a gorgeous floral centrepiece complete the look."

"If soft and romantic is your goal (below) start with a rose velour floor length linen and gold cutlery. We then add gold foil placemats with beaded gold chargers, and a champagne soft satin napkin. Clear glassware with simple white dinnerware, and lots of romantic candles with gold tapered holders round out this look." • PHOTOS, this page: darienfunk.com

58 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca 54

{ STYLE SHOOT }

Winter Wonderland VENUE: NithRidge Estate Weddings & Events (www.nithridge.com) Ayr, ON COLOUR/THEME: Burgundy, white and green PLANNING & COORDINATION: Event Depot (www.eventdepot.ca) Kitchener, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: DA Photography (www.daphotostudio.com) Guelph, ON FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY: Jysin Miller Photo & Motion (www.jysinmiller.ca) Kitchener, ON ESTATE PHOTOGRAPHY: Justin Russo Photography (www.justinrusso.com) Waterloo, ON LINENS & DÉCOR: AWE Events (www.aweevents.ca) Cambridge, ON FLORALS: Buds & Blooms (www.budsandbloomskw.com) Kitchener, ON STATIONERY: Liz Kotsamanes Designs

(www.lizkotsamanesdesigns.ca) Cambridge, ON HAIR: Bri Li Beauty (www.brilibeauty.crevado. com) Toronto, ON MAKEUP: PearlGirlMakeup (www.pearlgirlmakeup.com) Kitchener, ON CATERING: Gourmet Chef at Your Table (www.gourmetchefatyourtable.com) Stratford, ON OFFICIANT: Bill Judge (www.billjudge.ca) Kitchener, ON VIOLINIST: Kristi Coleman (www.kristicolemanviolin.ca) Cambridge, ON VIDEOGRAPHY: Brubacher Films (www. brubacherfilms.com) Guelph, ON & Cast & Crewe Photography (www.castandcrewe.com) Ayr, ON MODELS: Ethan & Olivia

"The stunning backdrop of a wintery NithRidge Estate was the perfect setting for this amazing outdoor wedding style shoot. Our Red Seal Chef created delectable butlered hors d’oeuvres; such as sensational Korean BBQ steak shots and warm halloumi cheese pops. The rich greenery, festive pinecones, and burgundy florals were a gorgeous pop of colour in the pristine white snow while twinkling fairy lights lit the snowy terrace steps."

- Karima, Event Depot • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 55

Memories Bridal (www.memoriesbridalcanada.ca) (♥) in Barrie, ON offers exclusive bridal gowns & accessories by Canadian & International Designers. Find your perfect gown - your perfect fit! Over 100 sample gowns in a variety of sizes, with most gowns available to order in regular and plus sizes up to size 34.

STYLE: Jasmine Curve F221053N-2

STYLE: Calla Blanche: Antonella #120128 STYLE: Calla Blanche: Melinda #19117

STYLE: Eddy K Curvy #UR122

56 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

Canadian, Curvy & Exclusive

STYLE: Jasmine Curve F221051N-1 WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 57

Custom Beauty

58 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

Your invitations are your guests' first glimpse of your wedding style and theme. Wow them with an amazing first impression of your wedding!

Ink & Vellum (@inkandvellum_) Kitchener, ON shows us a few of her favourite custom wedding suites & Day Of Stationery

PHOTOS, this page: Ink & Vellum

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 59

{ STYLE SHOOT }

Estate Beauty VENUE: NithRidge Estate Weddings & Events (www.nithridge.com) Ayr, ON COLOUR/THEME: Burgundy, white and green PLANNING & COORDINATION: Event Depot (www.eventdepot.ca) Kitchener, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: DA Photography (www.daphotostudio.com) Guelph, ON FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY: Jysin Miller Photo & Motion (www.jysinmiller.ca) Kitchener, ON ESTATE PHOTOGRAPHY: Justin Russo Photography (www.justinrusso.com) Waterloo, ON LINENS & DÉCOR: AWE Events (www.aweevents.ca) Cambridge, ON FLORALS: Buds & Blooms (www.budsandbloomskw.com) Kitchener, ON STATIONERY: Liz Kotsamanes Designs 60 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

(www.lizkotsamanesdesigns.ca) Cambridge, ON HAIR: Bri Li Beauty (www.brilibeauty.crevado. com) Toronto, ON MAKEUP: PearlGirlMakeup (www.pearlgirlmakeup.com) Kitchener, ON CATERING: Gourmet Chef at Your Table (www.gourmetchefatyourtable.com) Stratford, ON OFFICIANT: Brenda Halloran (www.brendahalloranofficiant.com) Waterloo, ON VIOLINIST: Kristi Coleman (www.kristicolemanviolin.ca) Cambridge, ON VIDEOGRAPHY: Brubacher Films (www.brubacherfilms.com) Guelph, ON & Cast & Crewe Photography (www.castandcrewe.com) Ayr, ON MODELS: Ethan & Olivia

"The stunning backdrop of a wintery NithRidge Estate was the perfect setting for this amazing outdoor wedding style shoot. Our Red Seal Chef created delectable butlered hors d’oeuvres; such as sensational Korean BBQ steak shots and warm halloumi cheese pops. The rich greenery, festive pinecones, and burgundy florals were a gorgeous pop of colour in the pristine white snow while twinkling fairy lights lit the snowy terrace steps."

- Karima, Event Depot •

{ DESIGN PALETTE }

Spring into Fall

BRIDE & BRIDE: Jess & Jessie WEDDING DATE: October 16th, 2020 VENUE: LaSalle Banquet Centre (www.lasallepark.ca) Burlington, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: Alexandra Del Bello Photography (www.alexandradelbellophotography.com) Hamilton, ON FLORALS: Tplus3Designs (@tplus3designs) Waterdown, ON DÉCOR: Tufts & Toile (www.tuftsandtoile.ca) Burlington, ON COORDINATOR: Mo & Co Event Coordination (www.moandcoevents.ca) Burlington, ON

DOUGHNUTS: Sunshine Doughnuts (@sunshinedoughnuts) Burlington, ON STATIONERY: Minted.com HAIR: Brittany Silla (www.brittanysilla.com) Toronto, ON MAKEUP: Beyond the Skin Beauty (www.beyondtheskinbeauty.com) Toronto, ON DJ: DJ Emporium (www.djemporium.com) Vaughan, ON OFFICIANT: Carly Popenko (www.theweddingfaerie.com) Burlington, ON "Jess & Jessie's original plan was for a spring wedding at LaSalle Banquet Centre in Burl-

ington, ON. They had set the the date for April 18th, 2020. Unfortunately, COVID-19 had other plans and these ladies had to make the difficult decision to postpone their wedding. They rescheduled for October of 2020. They agreed that regardless of what pandemic restrictions were in place, they would be wed on October 16th no matter what. Their postponed wedding went off without a hitch. These two were blessed with an absolutely gorgeous day and celebrated their love among their closest family and friends!"

- Alexandra Del Bello • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 61

DARE TO DREAM BRIDAL GOWNS

STYLE: Maggie Sottero: Zander 62 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

YOUR PERFECT WEDDING DRESS IS WAITING HERE FOR YOU! Bridal Boutique (♥) (www.bridal-boutique.ca) in Brantford, ON offers an unparalleled selection of designer gowns, bridesmaids dresses, motherof-the-bride, flower girl, prom, and graduation dresses as well as large array of wedding veils, shoes, and bridal accessories for your special day!

STYLE: Martina Liana #1244 STYLE: Maggie Sottero: Tuscany Royale

STYLE: Madi Lane #17809

STYLE: Stella York #6838

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 63

PHOTOS, this page: theultimateweddingproject.com unless otherwise stated

PHOTO: alexandradelbellophotography.com

PHOTO: paulavisco.com

All That Glitters The Ultimate Wedding Project (www.theultimateweddingproject.com) Milton, ON offers a vast inventory of décor products available for rent to create your dream wedding. From charger plates, pedestals, crystal candelabras, planters, ostrich feathers centerpieces, cherry blossom trees, easels, frames, king & queen chairs, crystal ball centrepieces, backdrops, gold cutlery, cake stands, and money boxes; the options are endless.

Though we focused the images for this feature on their rentals in a gold colour palette, they have the colours to suit every design. • 64 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

{ DESIGN PALETTE }

Rustic Fall

BRIDE & GROOM: Shania & Garrett Kirby DATE: September 19th, 2020 LOCATION: St. Mary's Golf & Country Club (www.stmarysgolf.com) St. Mary's, ON PHOTOGRAPHY: The August Photo Company (www.theaugustphotocompany.com) Kitchener, ON COLOUR/THEME: Fall, elegant, rustic DÉCOR & FLORALS: Servers with a Smile (♥) (www.serverswithasmile.ca) Kitchener, ON GOWN: Taylor's Bridal Boutique (♥) (www.taylorsbridal.com) Elmira, ON TUX: Collins Clothiers (♥) (www.collinsclothiers.com)

Kitchener, ON HAIR: Bamboo Boutique Hair Salon (www.bamboosalon.ca) Kitchener, ON MAKEUP: Ashley MacBeath Makeup (www.makeupbyashley.ca) Brantford, ON GUEST #: "We originally had 140 invited which included our family from Newfoundland, British Columbia, and North Carolina but due to COVID they were unable to attend. We were able to have 100 for our ceremony and 50 for our reception." - S TELL US YOUR STORY: "We are high school

sweethearts who met through a mutual friend and started dating in 2012! We got engaged while on a hike with our golden retriever, Molson, on July 14th, 2019. When we were deciding our wedding date, we originally wanted a June wedding to have the same anniversary date as the day we started dating. But then we realized my grandparents' wedding anniversary was on the Saturday in September. So we decided on Saturday, September 19th, 2020 to celebrate our new life together and my grandparents' 61st wedding anniversary!" - S • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 65

PHOTOS, this page: lapiersflowers.com

Wedding Arch Inspiration Whether you're planning an indoor or outdoor ceremony, at the beach, on the golf course or in your venue, you're going to need a focal point at the end of your aisle. Arches, arbours, doors, and more have been used in place of an alter or chuppah for couples who choose not to get married in a place of worship. A beautiful arbor can act as an anchor for your outdoor ceremony.

A well designed arbour can serve as a photography backdrop for your ceremony as well as for guests after the ceremony. We've even seen couples use arbours and arches as an entryway to their ceremony or reception. Your design could incorporate elements of your personalities and even bring new meaning to your celebration. Including flowers, fabrics, woods, and metals, arches are a gorgeous way to bring a bold new look to the end of your aisle." LaPier's Flowers & Gifts (www.lapiersflowers.com) Sarnia, ON shares some of their favorite wedding arches that will help round out your big day. • 66 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTOS, this page: jaylynphoto.ca

Style Savvy Accessories Laura Jayne Accessories (www.laurajayne.com) Toronto, ON designs and creates modern veils and chic adornments to help brides make "The Dress", their dress. "From the perfect wedding accessories to a distinctive style statement for an evening out. Your style is a statement; punctuate it with accessories that are uniquely you! Happy styling!" • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 67

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68 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: lenjobakes.com

PHOTO: amytaylorphotography.ca

PHOTO: magoffin.ca

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PHOTO: davidandkara.com

PHOTO: stephaniecanada.com

PHOTO: candecollective.com

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WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 67

PHOTO: kayleighphotography.com

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Favourite Cake Designs Sweet tables, ombre cakes, geode style cakes, cupcake towers, cakes hanging from the ceiling… accents ranging from statement florals and strings of pearls to antique cake stands, designing your cake display can be sweet! This gallery is filled with cake design ideas we love, thanks to our friends from across South Western Ontario.

ALL INVOLVED 1. The Bitchin Kitchen (www.the-bitchin-kitchen.ca) Woodstock, ON 2. Cakeoholics (www.cakeoholics.ca) Newmarket, ON 3. Decadently Yours (www.decadentlyyours.ca) Guelph, ON 4. Fancy That Cake (www.fancythatcake.ca) Fergus, ON 5. LenJo Bakes (wwwlenjobakes.com) Kitchener, ON 6. Refined Sugar Cakes and Sweets (www.refinedsugar.ca) Kitchener, ON 7. Ritzy Cakes & Eatery (www.robinsritzycakes.com) Waterford, ON 8. Stacked: The Wedding Cake Shop (www.stackedweddingcakes.com) Ayr, ON 9. Sweet Avenue Cakery (www.sweetavenuecakery.ca) Stoney Creek, ON WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 69

Versatile Bridal Party Style: The Classic Collection by BridesMade One Shoulder in Dusty Blue Halter in Blush Pink

PHOTOS, this page: bridesmadeonline.com

The BridesMade Classic Collection from

Wrap in Burgundy Jewel in Teal

BridesMade (www.bridesmadeonline.com) includes 5 dress styles that are made to be able to mix and match between styles, and have been thoughtfully designed to alleviate the need for alterations.

With the option to buy new, rent, or buy used BridesMade is the perfect option for every bridesmaid, with any budget! Conveniently shop online with the choice to try on before you buy to guarantee a perfect fit! •

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Sweetheart in Navy

Expert Tips

The following twenty eight pages of features are filled with wedding planning tips and tricks, written and contributed by the experts who know best how to create the ultimate wedding event. Curated by The Ring

CAKE: Decadently Yours (♥) (www.decadentlyyours.ca) Guelph, ON PHOTO: Red Suitcase Photography (www.redsuitcasephotography.com) pg 82-83 WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 71

Minimony, Microwedding or Elopement EXPERT TIP BY: The Wedding Ring

WHAT IS A MINIMONY? A minimony is a mini ceremony held with your loved ones, or simply a moment of commitment shared between yourselves. It typically consists of a party of up to 10 people, usually close family and friends – as long as you adhere to social distancing measures.

A minimony is a great option for those who want to honour their original wedding date but plan to host a larger-scale wedding in the future. Note that a minimony does consist of an officiant and is, therefore, a legal wedding. This is important, as you won’t need to go through the legal process again at the second event.

PHOTO: hattphotography.com

WHAT IS A MICROWEDDING? A microwedding is an intimate affair, typically with no more than 50 guests. They still feature time-honored wedding traditions but on a much smaller scale —often immediate family and super-close friends only.

The flexibility and intimate experience are exactly why microweddings are trending during COVID. Let us make it crystal clear – micro does not mean a small wedding. You can splurge on more as the guest count is less. You have the option to make your microwedding more luxurious and intimate, and to personalize it more according to your taste and personality.

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PHOTO: kgoodphoto.com

WHAT IS AN ELOPEMENT? An elopement refers to a marriage conducted in a sudden and secretive fashion. There are no guests in attendance, rather it is just the wedding couple and an officiant. As elopements become more popular, many wedding venues now offer packages that cater to couples who wish to elope. These packages often revolve around granting access to a remote and highly photogenic location. An elopement is a popular choice for couples who would prefer a secluded and intimate wedding. However, the cost of eloping varies depending on where you choose to elope. Couples who want to save money may choose to elope at a location that is open to the public. Another couple may choose to travel to a destination or may be willing to pay for access to and the use of a privately owned property.

“Our original wedding plan was a 100 person castle wedding on Vancouver Island, but due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, reality turned into a 20 person physically distanced backyard elopement. The only plan we truly kept was being married by the end of it and we promised ourselves that after a million different iterations of the day that we dreamt of, no matter what would happen the day-of… would be perfect and exactly how it was meant to be.” – Tiffany & Kiana MINIMONY, MICROWEDDING OR ELOPEMENT If you have had to cancel or postpone your planned wedding due to current events, consider downsizing it. With the possibility of 2021 weddings continuing to be affected by gathering limits, any wedding can be turned into a minimony, microwedding or elopement with adjustments to the guest list. It all depends on what your vision is for the day.

Remember: Love is NEVER canceled! • PHOTO: Karissa Poot Photography

Minimony vs Microwedding vs Elopement: 2020 brought so many changes to our lives and how we do things, including weddings.With weddings in the early part of 2021 still subject to COVID gathering limits, couples are choosing to move forward with their celebrations with a whole new approach to their wedding day. Minimony, microweddings, and elopments are all the buzz. Here is your guide from The Wedding Ring (www.theweddingring.ca) to the differences between these three types of events, so you can determine which option is best for you and your fiancé.

PHOTO: daphotostudio.com

Trending: Streaming Your Wedding

EXPERT TIP BY THUNDERSTORM PRODUCTIONS (♥) (www.thunderstormpro.com) Kitchener, ON

Prior to March 2020, live streaming a wedding ceremony was gaining in popularity. It was a common choice for engaged couples who elected to host at destination wedding or elopement, or for those couples who had loved ones who couldn’t be present for medical reasons.With COVID-19’s dramatic impact on wedding guest lists, many couples turned to virtual streaming to ensure that everyone could witness their love.

Eric from ThunderStorm Productions, well-known for their exceptional DJ services in the KitchenerWaterloo area, answered the call for quality wedding streaming services. “Since March 20th, we’ve been perfecting the virtual wedding streaming experience.

Using some of the newest technology and also creating some of own, we have been able to offer local engaged couples high-definition audio and video streaming with an amazing viewer experience.”

There are many ways to do online streaming. Some people use Zoom, some use Facebook Live and others choose Instagram live. There are several issues with all of these. First, the sound and video quality are not good. These apps were designed for meetings, not music. Second, in the case of Facebook and Instagram, you run the risk of being shut down during your event due to music copyright issues.

This is done automatically. And, lastly, your viewers, or guests, have to have the app in order to login and view your wedding.

The ThunderStorm Productions Virtual Wedding Streaming Experience solves these issues. “First, we provide multiple angle high-def video and an on-site sound system so that both your in-person and your online guests can witness your carefully planned

ceremony. We will also provide a microphone for your officiant, so your guests don’t miss a word of your vows. As always, we’ll provide the ceremony music you selected.”

PHOTO: thunderstormpro.com

Having the high-def audio and video capabilities is only the start. ThunderStorm Production then streams your wedding on a platform that allows for a flawless streaming experience that won’t cut out just as you’re saying “I Do”. The best part for your at-home guests is that there is no app to download or login required! All your online guests need to do is follow a simple web link to participate.

Thunderstorm Productions also ensures that they have redundant equipment and a hard-wired internet connection (if available) to make sure that your wedding streaming goes off without a hitch.

PHOTO: thunderstormpro.com

The full Virtual Wedding Ceremony Experience doesn’t stop there. “We can also play a photo slide show for all your guests as they are waiting for the ceremony to start – online and in-person. There’s also a live chat feature for your online guests to talk to each other. We even a number they can use to text in photos of their families watching the ceremony.

These photos can then be put up on the screen.”

And, of course, you’ll receive a copy of the ceremony to watch and enjoy for years to come!

PHOTO: daphotostudio.com

"These are very unique times, and the team at ThunderStorm Productions is here to help you in any way we can. We’re happy to chat with you about how we can customize your Virtual Wedding Streaming Experience to fit your special day!" • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 73

PHOTOS, this page: lipladycanada.com

Look Naturally Flawless on Your Wedding Day EXPERT TIP BY SENEGENCE - LIP LADY CANADA (www.lipladycanada.com) Barrie, ON Your wedding day is one of the most special and memorable days of your life that will be captured in time for years to come. Every bride wants to look and feel her most beautiful, and the true secret is to allow inner radiance to shine through! It is especially important this season as bridal makeup trends for 2021 will bring us back to the basics with a timeless, fresh skin makeup look that provides a harmonious combination of simplicity and elegance. Nancy from Senegence - Lip Lady Canada shares a few of her favourite tips.

Like the rest of your wedding, the perfect solution to an excellent outcome, is in the advance planning. "A personal skin care regime will allow for a wonderfully hydrated ‘canvas’ for your actual makeup application on your wedding day. There are many specialty products available to address your specific needs, and it is important to invest time to understand your skin BEFORE your wedding day. Look for multipurpose products that will offer you a cleansed, hydrated, and bright complexion. Simplicity is always the best and your radiant skin will most certainly require a regime in place several months prior to your wedding. Consulting with a professional who can address both your skincare and makeup is added value for you."

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In 2021, luminous, healthy-looking skin will be accentuated with cream makeup products for the face. Cream to powder blushes, highlighters, and even shadows all providing a dewy finish. Soft natural earthy palettes will accentuate the natural contours of the face and eyes. The “no makeup” natural makeup look says good-bye to heavier makeup trends of the past.

It is important to consider your normal daily makeup preferences when planning your wedding day beauty look. Nancy tells us "If you normally love to wear a red lip, your wedding photos should reflect that. However, if your makeup bag consists of lip balms and mascara, your wedding day isn’t the time to experiment with a dramatic eye look. The key is to communicate effectively with those who will service you on your wedding day and 100% be sure to book advance trial runs for both your makeup and your hair."

Stress-free beauty is guaranteed with the marriage of proper skin care and a gorgeous natural makeup look on your wedding day!!

"Consider investing in SeneGence Gluten Free Skin Care as well as our long lasting vegan waterproof cosmetics that also contain antiaging skincare in them. SeneGence stress-free

anti-aging makeup will last all wedding day long!"

Pro Tips: • Keep powders to a minimum and let your natural glow shine through • Highlighter on your cheeks • Don’t forget LIP care… exfoliate and hydrate • KISS PROOF Lips!!! LipSense Lip colour is kissproof, budge proof and lasts up to 18 hours • Wedding day arrive for your makeup with a clean, exfoliated, hydrated face • Colour correcting tinted moisturizer is a must to counteract redness • Have an emergency kit on hand including oil absorbing sheets, hydrating serum mist, and your lip product. •

Top 5 Tips For Wedding Gown Shopping During Covid EXPERT TIP BY TAYLOR'S BRIDAL BOUTIQUE (♥) (www.taylorsbridal.com) Elmira, ON

To stay safe during your dress shopping experience, Taylor's Bridal Boutique has come up with tips to help you feel prepared!

1. Do research on which boutiques you want to visit and dresses you want to try. Make sure that the boutique you chose is an authorized retailer for the designers you've been eyeing. You can see which retailers are authorized by looking at each designer's website.

2. Once you find a boutique that carries the designers you want, check out the website, reviews, and social media to give you an idea of what the experience at each boutique entails. Ideally you don't want to visit more than 2 boutiques at this time for obvious safety concerns and should only bring those closest to you in your social circle.

3. If you find it difficult to narrow down who to choose to be there

with you for your "Yes!" moment, ask for the store's wifi and include others digitally! Bring your tablet and organize a zoom call for your appointment so no one is left out of the experience.

4. Choose a mask that you're comfortable wearing for the duration of your consultation. You may want to wear a clear mask as you will be able to envision yourself on your wedding day!

5. If you have shoes or an idea of your heel height, bring that information with you as you may want to order your gown in the exact length you need. Then you won't have to arrange a second appointment and leave home when you don't need to.

Times have changed so much, but it doesn't mean you can't have an amazing bridal shopping experience if you remember to stay safe and respect COVID protocols! • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 75

Choosing A Master Of Ceremonies ABOUT MUSIC CENTRAL: Music Central Entertainment is the area's most respected disc jockey service based out of London, ON. Music Central specializes in weddings as well as corporate events, and creating a unique event based on the client’s wishes, musicality, and suggestions. As well as their famous DJ services, they can also provide photo booths, lighting, special effects, audio/visual, karaoke, master of cermonies, and much more.

PHOTOS, this page: thebridallounge.ca EXPERT TIP BY MUSIC CENTRAL ENTERTAINMENT (♥) (www.musiccentral.ca)

Choosing the MC for your wedding is a more complicated decision than it can seem on the surface. Many people just choose their favourite uncle or friend. But when you consider the actual importance of your MC, you may want to reconsider your options. Rob from Music Central tells us, “The MC is the captain of your wedding ship. They make sure that you stay on track and steer the event along. They have 2 basic duties at your reception: first they coordinate with vendors so that everyone is on the same page and then they communicate the day to your guests.

But the truly great Master of Ceremonies doesn’t just coordinate and communicate. They help to tell the story of your wedding day; help to create moments you and your guests will never forget.”

COORDINATING WITH VENDORS

One of the basic jobs of your MC is to make sure that everyone is in place and ready for the next step. “It’s all about flow, knowing what is coming next and making sure that everyone is in place and on the same page. One of the most common mistakes that inexperienced MC’s make is to introduce the wedding party before making sure the kitchen is ready to start dinner service. There is nothing more frustrating for both your guests and for your chef then to have the wedding party introductions done before dinner is ready to be served.” An experienced MC will always make sure that everyone is in place for a seamless flow for your wedding.

COMMUNICATING WITH GUESTS As the keeper of the microphone, another basic responsibility of your MC is to communicate with your guests. They will introduce your wedding party, announce dinner an even introduce the people who have speeches or toasts to make at your wedding. But a great Master of Ceremonies takes basic communication and adds an element of entertainment. “When we are introducing the wedding party, we like to actually introduce the wedding party. It is not just about saying names and relationship to the bride/groom. It is about actually making people feel like they know them. “Our best man for the evening is Frank. Frank and Steve (groom) have been friends since childhood and Frank is the 76 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

person responsible for us being here tonight as he introduced the happy couple back in high school. On a personal note, Frank is single and enjoys long walks on the beach.” We are trained entertainers who have a passion for our role as Master of Ceremonies at your wedding. We take the time to make sure we have all the information to bring the extra touches to your wedding.”

STORYTELLING The truly great Masters of Ceremonies are storytellers. For Music Central, it is not enough to coordinate and communicate. They love helping to create moments and memories at your wedding by making sure to tell the stories of your day. “Brides and grooms often come to us with special moments they’d like to incorporate like playing the first dance song from mom and dad’s wedding. It is not enough that the newlyweds and the parents know the significance. We tell the story so that all of your guests get to experience the moment with you.”

Without the passion and care for what they do, this would have just been a song they played at this bride’s wedding. Instead, the MC from Music Central used setup and emotion to create a memory that the couple, her parents, and all the guests at the wedding will never forget.

A great Master of Ceremonies doesn’t just make announcements and introductions. A Master of Ceremonies orchestrates the entire evening making sure that when the bride and groom take the dance floor for their first dance, the venue lights dim, the music starts, and the guests are there to watch the bride and groom enjoy their first dance together. A great Master of Ceremonies understands how to orchestrate your wedding with magic and emotion. •

PHOTO: lovesproutsphotography.com

Q&A WITH AN EXPERT

Why Choose a Custom Gown PHOTO: jenlinfieldphotography.com

CUSTOM GOWN Q&A WITH TAMI, DESIGNER AND CREATOR OF MINA BRIDAL DESIGN (www.minabridaldesign.ca) Stratford, ON Q. WHAT IS CUSTOM DESIGN? "A custom gown is designed and created for your distinct style and made to your measurements. It is truly a one of a kind gown that no one else would have."

Q. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS? "In 2013 I officially started Mina. But the first wedding gown I made many years before at 22yrs. Since then I have made over 200 gowns."

Q. IS IT EXPENSIVE? "I have made gowns ranging from $150-$10 000. The cost of a custom dress depends entirely on what you want: materials, adornments, embellishments, etc. I always take budget into consideration."

Q. WHY WOULDN'T I JUST ORDER MY DRESS? "Custom design isn't for everyone. But

with it you get exactly the gown of your dreams with no extra charges for fittings and alterations. For these reasons, a custom dress can sometimes be less expensive than salon prices."

Q. HOW DO I CHOOSE A STYLE?!

"The design process is something we do together, usually starting with you sending me a few images of what you like. We would then meet in person and figure out a style that suits your body as well as your idea of a dream dress."

Q. HOW DO I KNOW IT WILL LOOK GOOD ON ME? "I do recommend trying on a few different dresses to help you see what you do and don't like. My services can include a trip to a bridal salon with you for my professional advice and help in determining what your best cuts and colours/shades are."

Q. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER WE DESIGN A STYLE? HOW DOES THIS WORK? "I will take your measurements at our first meeting and we will discuss fabrics. The next time we meet you will try on a mock-up dress.

We can tweak or change up the design to

better suit your body before cutting out your actual fabric. You get to choose your fabrics and we would set up a fitting schedule right up to final pick up. There are anywhere from 3-7 fittings and this entire process can happen in as little time as 4 weeks."

Q. WHAT ARE MY LIMITATIONS? DO YOU ONLY MAKE WEDDING GOWNS? "With custom design there are no limitations.

I design, draft patterns, and sew all kinds of creations. I am a 100% inclusive business and am happy to create for anyone. Some of my past work has been bridesmaids, mothers of the bride/groom, men's and women's suits, prom, grad, show dress, and some accessories including jewelry, veils, and garters."

Q. HOW DID YOU GET INTO THIS BUSINESS? "I have always felt like bridal chose me. While in college for fashion design, I got a job working in a bridal salon doing alterations. It gave me a deep understanding of dresses and how to fit a body. Not wanting to be limited to dresses, I branched out to more diverse custom design. Being able to help someone bring their dreams into reality is such a privilege and honour. I can truly say I love my job." • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 77

Top 5 Tips to Hiring a Wedding Photographer EXPERT TIP BY ELEMENT FUSION STUDIOS (♥) (www.elementfusion.ca) Toronto, ON

Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting times of your life. At times it may feel very stressful; trying to find a venue that’s available on the date you’d like, deciding how many people and who to invite, or even when choosing your vendors and trying to decide between a few of them. We promise you in the end it is totally worth it!

Ankur from Element Fusion Studios would like to offer you some tips on how to choose a photographer for your engagement, elopement and/or wedding needs, so that investing in a photography company or photographer is easy, stress-free, and helps ensure you get the photos you dream of!

1. Confirm your wedding date and venue, before you meet with a photographer "The first part of your planning process should be finding a venue that meets your vision for your wedding day. Once you have a venue and a date, it will help you with the rest of your planning as it is likely the first question that will come up in any consultation to ensure the vendor is available."

2. Consider the style of the photographer and envision yourself in their photos "Every photographer likely has a style of editing for their photos and/or the style of photography they pride themselves on. One of the first things couples do is look through online photo galleries and social media pages to see what style of photos they like. But 'style' could mean so many things. You’ll see photos that are pastel or neutral toned, dark and moody, or even colorful and vibrant. You’ll also see photos that are 'light and airy' or 'elegant and dramatic', so take some time to sit down with your significant other and really go through examples of what you love, and also examples of what doesn’t really fit your vision."

3. Meet with your photographer for an initial consultation "I cannot stress this tip enough – meet with your photographer, the actual person who will be capturing your engagement, elopement, or wedding. This is not just an opportunity to ask questions, but more importantly, it’s an opportunity for you to get an initial gauge of what working with this individual will be like. Think of it as a 2-way interview! What’s important to me as a photographer, is that the client trusts me and we can have

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a good laugh and conversation over coffee. It makes everything so much easier throughout the wedding day when we all get along, everyone is comfortable with each other, and we've built that rapport and trust."

4. Ask yourself if you need one photographer or two for your wedding needs "Often couples will immediately request two photographer packages, but are unsure if it’s the right choice. I’ve had couples think 'more is better' and assume they need two photographers for that reason alone. I always aim to understand my couples' needs and understand the “why”, and then make suggestions or recommendations that meet those needs. For example, having a second shooter available as part of your package is imperative if the 'getting ready' portion of the wedding day is important to you and the distance between the two getting ready locations is far enough to warrant a second shooter."

5. Ask the photographer if they carry backup equipment "You’ve spent months planning your wedding day, everything is going smoothly, and is just as you imagined so far. The last thing you want is for something to go wrong. We’ve all heard the stories where a photographer experienced a camera failure, memory card failures, and picture loss, or camera gear being stolen. These are true stories and they do happen. While it can happen to anyone, preparation is key. A professional wedding photographer will always carry backup gear to ensure an uninterrupted wedding day for their couples."

There are many wonderful and talented photographers out there today, each bringing their own creative skill and art as well as experience to the wedding industry. With that said, if your photographer only captures moments with a single camera or lens, think about what’s important to you. "If something were to happen to that one camera or lens, without backup equipment, how will that impact your wedding photos?"

"Remember, this journey is incredibly fun from beginning to end, so when choosing a photographer, invest in a photographer that you feel you can absolutely trust and be yourself with. After all, it’ll make your wedding day that much smoother. Let the planning fun begin!" •

Favourite Things: fun foods for your wedding

PHOTOS, this page: thunderstormpro.com Unless otherwise stated

Looking to add a little extra fun to your wedding? Here are a few of our favourite selections from Thunderstorm Productions: DRINKBOX – The DrinkBox from ThunderStorm Productions is the perfect solution for any wedding! It is fully equipped with TVs to show your wedding slideshow (or hook up a gaming console).

LED colour changing lighting can also be set for your wedding colours. DrinkBox can dispense 6 different flavours of pop, cold water, and 4 types of BEER all day long! No hydro or potable water on location? No problem! Power and water can be brought in, and it also works for on-site cold storage.

COTTON CANDY - Another crowd favourite for the young and the young at heart is cotton candy. Thunderstorm Productions even offers light up cotton candy sticks to bring that extra little bit to your party and your dance floor.

SOFT SERVE ICE CREAM – Thunderstorm Productions offers classic flavours like chocolate and vanilla to help turn your candy bar into a Sundae Bar. You can even kick it up a little and add on a blizzard machine to let your guests have custom blended treats.

For the Disney lover, they also offer Dole Whip in pineapple and raspberry which are dairy-free, lactose-free, gluten-free, and vegan.

WORRY-FREE – One of our favourite things about Thunderstorm Productions is their team. You don’t have to worry about picking up, transporting, or dealing with leftovers. They bring it, set it up, in some cases stay to run it for your guests, then take it away at the end. No clean up or extra work for you! •

SLUSHIES – Fun for kids of all ages, a slushie machine lets you treat your guests to a refreshing cool down at a hot summer wedding or after tearing it up on the dance floor. You can make custom drinks just for your wedding or choose from one of their most popular flavours: pina colada, strawberry daiquiri, margarita, Mr Freeze Cherry, blue raspberry, and even the iconic white cream soda.

ABOUT THUNDERSTORM PRODUCTIONS: As one of the most well-known Disc Jockey services in the Kitchener/Waterloo areas, ThunderStorm Productions (♥) (www.thunderstormpro.com) has been bringing the party to weddings for over 25 years. From DJ services to pinball and video game rentals to slushie, popcorn, cotton candy machines, and soft serve ice cream, ThunderStorm Productions will elevate your wedding entertainment from ordinary to extraordinary.

PHOTO: lauriecadmancreative.com

POPCORN – You and your guests can enjoy fresh popcorn made on site with a classic themed pop-corn machine antique cart. It's not only a delicious snack, but a fun décor element as well. You can even get custom candy-coated popcorn to match your wedding colors.

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PHOTO: brandontaylor.ca

6 Tips To Hiring an Officiant EXPERT TIP BY BRIAN MANUEL, ENDURING PROMISES (♥) (www.enduringpromises.com) London, ON The venue is booked, you now have a date, time, and location for was seen asking a relative who had parked their walker in the your wedding to take place. You possibly have your photographer aisle if it could be moved for the ceremony. It wasn’t infringing and music taken care of as well. Now that you have an idea of on the actual aisle, but it would look terrible in photos." when, where and who is going to be involved in that special day, what about the person that is going to officiate your ceremony?

4. Punctual: "Again, this is a simple request. but vitally important.

When you first met them, were they on time (or early) for your The officiant plays a significant part in your day. The ceremony meeting? If you have not yet met them, please pay attention to is more than a prelude to a great party. It is the beginning of the that. It will tell you lots about who they are as a person and if you next chapter of life and should reflect your personalities, vision can depend on them to be on time for your special day. Venues and of course your values. are becoming more focused on timing and you do not want to be waiting for your Officiant to show up for your ceremony to So, what should you look for when searching for an officiant? start."

Brian Manuel from Enduring Promises gives us 6 tips to consider when hiring an officant.

5. Credible: "Are they registered to Officiate marriages in your 1. Flexibility: "he ceremony is a reflection of who you both are.

It’s important to ensure that the Officiant you choose is someone who is flexible and willing to work with you, to help create the ceremony YOU want, where you get to choose every word that is spoken. This is your day, not his/hers, so make sure they will help you create your vision."

2. Personable: "This is a simple thing, but so very important.

When you select an Officiant make sure they are friendly. It is important that you and your families get the sense that you are being married by a friend, without being married by a friend.

Your Officiant must be professional and able to work under just about any condition. At the same time, they must be warm and personable so as to set a mood that is relaxed, putting you both at ease."

3. Detailed: "An Officiant isn’t a wedding planner but they should have a sense of what is happening around them and an eye for detail. They are there to make your day everything you hoped it would be and if they can look around and pick up on small things, you’re in great hands. For example, an Officiant

Province? There should be a list provided by a governing body to verify they are. Do they have positive reviews? Specifically, do the reviews speak well of their personality and the way they conducted themselves?"

6. Knowledgeable: "Do they have a good understanding of what needs to be done with the license after the ceremony is completed? Are they familiar with the important aspects of a ceremony and how to manage it? For example, have they done a wedding at your venue, or at the very least, have they researched the venue to see what the ceremony space looks like? Do they have experience in performing ceremonies, are they familiar with all the different elements of a ceremony, such as mother’s rose presentation, ring warming, love letter ceremony, etc.?"

From a legal standpoint, you need an officiant who can make sure the legal details are taken care of. From an experience perspective, you need an officiant who is personable, confident, and engaging. An officiant who helps create the wedding ceremony experience that best represents who you are as a couple. • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 81

Phone: (519) 265-5314 Email: info@decadentlyyours.ca www.decadentlyyours.ca

Top 5 Wedding Cake Tips No One Tells You EXPERT TIP BY DECADENTLY YOURS (♥) (www.decadentlyyours.ca) Guelph, ON | Photos, this page courtesy of Decadently Yours (unless otherwise stated)

You might not know much about wedding cakes (besides the obvious fact that they're delicious), but the more informed you are, the better your decisions will be. Decadently Yours offers you a few tips to help pick your perfect confection.

1. It's best to have these three things confirmed before you even start thinking of a wedding cake; your wedding date, your venue, and your estimated number of guests.

"The wedding date is important to ensure the bakery has that date available and has the capacity to accept your order — wedding seasons get hectic, FAST!" "Your venue is important too if the bakery will be delivering the cake. We will need to build a schedule around you and whomever else they're making deliveries for on that day. The number of guests will determine the size of the cake you will need and gives the bakery a starting point. However, don't get too hung up on that number as it may fluctuate — most bakeries are fine with your calling to add or subtract a reasonable number of guests two weeks out."

2. Most wedding cakes are priced by the number of guests you want it to feed and design, not by the number of tiers.

"The cost of your cake depends on the number of guests you'd like to serve as well as the design of your cake. It's important to have an idea of what type of cake designs you like as well as a budget. We're always happy to work with you to help create the perfect cake for your style and budget."

3. Most bakeries will give you price estimates on designs prior to a consult.

"If you have an idea of what you want, EXCELLENT! You can save both yourself and your prospective wedding cake vendor some time with a casual email attaching the picture or general idea of what you're looking for, and they will be able to give you an estimated price. That way when or if you book a consult appointment it allows you to go over smaller, more personal preferences instead of starting at square one. It'll also give you a sense of which kinds of designs are feasible for your budget."

PHOTO: redsuitcasephotography.com

4. When it comes to wedding cake design, Pinterest and Instagram are your two new BFFs "In today’s world half of what we fall in love with is on Pinterest or Instagram. Save some of the photos you love and send them to your baker. That gives them a sense of what you're looking for and gives both of you a starting point, and also helps the baker to provide you with a few ideas, along with their price points, so you can mull things over before signing any contracts."

5. There's a difference between "layers" and "tiers", “buttercream icing” and “fondant” "When referring to a layer, it is a single cake with a filling in between each layer. It can be a 3 or 4 layered cake. I.e.: a layer of cake, layer of fill, layer of cake, layer of fill, layer of cake.

Normally would be 1 flavor of cake and filling. Although it may be possible to have a couple of different fillings.

Where as a tiered cake is a cake on top of a cake and can be two tiers or more. Each cake can be a different flavor and different filling, it does not all have to be the same. Tiered cakes tend to be for larger groups of people or for a showpiece cake where a single layered cake is for smaller groups.

Buttercream icing is whipped butter and icing sugar. It has a very light creamy taste with a soft sweetness to finish off the cake. Fondant is firm icing which gives a cake a crisp clean look and is rolled over the cake. Fondant accents are added to the cake to complete a design. Fondant cakes have a higher price point that a buttercream cake." • ABOUT DECADENTLY YOURS: Decadently Yours prides themselves on creating delicious handcrafted baked goods that will be the centerpiece at any event. They bake from scratch each and every day using locally sourced ingredients the best they can. Preservatives and store-bought mixes have no place in their bakery! Decadently Yours offers 120 different flavors in both cakes and cupcakes. Their custom baked cupcakes, cakes and baked goods are great for birthdays, showers, weddings, special events, sporting events, corporate functions and more!

PHOTO: amytaylorphotography.ca

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 83

Gift Yourself a Wedding Photoshoot EXPERT TIP BY ANNE EDGAR PHOTOGRAPHY & FILMS (♥) (www.anneedgarphoto.com) Cambridge, ON

For many brides and grooms, COVID threw all their carefully planned wedding dreams out the window. For many more, COVID continues to threaten their carefully laid plans. If you’re one of the many couples who chose or will choose to go ahead with your wedding despite the restrictions and limits, Anne Edgar of Anne Edgar Photography & Films suggests you give yourself the gift of a post-wedding photo shoot.

“I photographed this couple in Banff as a post-wedding celebration, a few weeks after their intimate wedding ceremony. With all the brides & grooms having to make compromises on their dream weddings - a dream photo shoot is a great way to make lemonade from COVID-19 lemons. Because weddings have been reduced in size and scale, a lot of couples are looking for a way to make their weddings more…. just more. A full-scale wedding photo shoot in a location that could never happen on the wedding day is a great way to extend the wedding day fun and create something breathtaking.” - Anne Edgar Photography & Films •

40 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca 84

PHOTO: one2onephotography.ca

Cocktail Weddings Post Covid EXPERT TIP BY LOOPS N JAMMZ DJ PRODUCTIONS (♥) (www.loopsnjamzzdjs.com) Kitchener ON We're all looking forward to the day weddings return in a post-COVID world. We're anticipating big celebrations for 2021 weddings after the vaccine is rolled out, of course. Will these weddings resemble those of the past or will 2021 represent the rebirth of weddings and something brand new? One thing is for sure, when it's safe we'll all have a deeper appreciation for the opportunity weddings provide to celebrate love with family and friends. Ken from Loops N Jamzz tells us what they see as the next trend in a post COVID world...

"Back in late 2018 and 2019 we started seeing a different type of wedding. We began referring to them as the cocktail weddings because they started with a cocktail hour followed by a ceremony, dances, speeches, and the party. These weddings share a lot of similar attributes to US weddings. A few year prior while we were training in the US we learned that many of the DJs would do two weddings in a single day. The concept was something we hadn’t experienced so they explained that one wedding would take place in the afternoon serving only cocktail foods while the second would have a full dinner and happen during the evening with each wedding being 3-5 hours. This new style of wedding that we’re now occasionally seeing in Kitchener-Waterloo and Stratford seems to combine these US wedding with a Canadian twist. The combination of an evening wedding with cocktail food being served and the party being longer than our US counterparts.

These weddings break from tradition and have a vibe that’s all their own.

We’ve noticed there’s frequently a high emphasis placed on celebrating with family and friends which in turn leads to seeing more value in the chosen entertainment. Although it’s not traditional we can understand why couples might want to consider having a cocktail style wedding. For the couple and their guests there’s no delay between the ceremony and celebration. There’s no concerns about environmental influences, such as, rain or heat because everything happens in a controlled room. There’s a seamless transition between each stage of the wedding when it’s done correctly with help of wedding professionals. This level of coordination

makes all the difference for the couple and their guest. These weddings have been some of the most fun for us, but also require careful planning.

THE COCKTAIL WEDDING BREAKDOWN 7:00 PM - Doors open guest arrive cocktail food is severed 8:00 PM – Ceremony 8:20 PM – Special dances 8:30 PM – Speeches 8:40 PM – The party starts (Bride & Groom slip out for photos) 10:50 PM – Cake cutting, snack bar and coffee 11:00 PM – The dancing and party continues By no means does this represent an inclusive breakdown of everything involved or required. This is only meant to serve as a basic outline.

Should you require more detailed information your best course of action is to contact wedding professionals with experience doing a cocktail weddings.

This style of wedding isn’t going to work for every couple, but it does work very well for some. Anyone considering this needs to realize that more than ever there needs to be full cooperation between the couple, the venue manager and their staff, the DJ, the officiant, the photographer, and any planners that are involved. Truly talented wedding professionals working together is absolutely the key to making these weddings a success.

Every couple needs to decide what’s best for them on their wedding day.

The cocktail wedding gives couples another unique way to celebrate their day. It’s always something special when we get to be a part of a couple’s vision as it becomes real while they are surrounded by the love of family and friends. If you're looking to have different style of wedding that offer a certain unique fair than a cocktail wedding might be prefect for you. If you’re interested in knowing more about this type of wedding feel free to reach out to us and we can have a conversation." • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 85

PHOTO: karenbenwellphotography.com

Smart Planning Leads to Stress-Free Wedding Days!

EXPERT TIP BY BRENTWOOD LIVERY (♥) (www.brentwoodlivery.ca) Kitchener, ON WHAT DO CELEBRITIES, ROYALTY, AND HAPPY WEDDING COUPLES ALL HAVE IN COMMON?

your plan made getting to and from each location throughout the day as memorable as the ceremony, photos, and reception?

Planning a wedding can be stressful. Re-planning the same wedding because of COVID-19 restrictions is a whole new level of stress. The average wedding couple spends over 500 hours planning all the details of their day, and more time and stress to replan the wedding. Now ask yourself... how much of that time is actually spent thinking and planning how each part of the day will make you feel? Your first priority when building your wedding day plan is to remember, it’s your day and you deserve to be celebrated.

What if the plan not only included how each person will arrive but even more importantly it also included all the emotions you want to feel throughout the day. A perfect wedding day plan considers the happy moments and the overwhelming rush of "I can’t believe this is actually happening" emotions couples often experience throughout their day.

When celebrities and royalty hold a big event, especially a royal wedding, the whole plan is built around them and their feelings. The last thing they stress about is executing the perfect plan let alone driving themselves to each part of the day. They certainly do not worry about cleaning their car nor how many people it will hold; if the roads they need to travel on will be congested with traffic or closed. They also never have to stress about counting their drinks to not risk impairment nor do they even consider opening their own door.

The successful wedding plan not only includes all the little details of who, what, and where but it is the blueprint for the timing of each component of the day and when each person needs to arrive. Each stop along the way is carefully calculated into the timeline. Celebrities use chauffeured services as they recognize travel is an integral part of the whole event. What if 86 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

A stress-less day almost always includes the right team helping to flawlessly execute each detail of the day. The Chief Experience Officer of Brentwood Livery says "his chauffeured service transforms the need for transportation into an unforgettable wedding day." Chauffeured service not only ties together all the pieces throughout the day but it eliminates the need to plan every contingency should something go wrong or not according to plan. Most importantly it will eliminate your stress of ensuring everyone gets safely where they need to be, on time. Your wedding day is your chance to be a celebrity and feel like royalty. When you can travel safely and celebrate all together you eliminate stress and instead create unforgettable memories that leave you smiling ear to ear.

If you are looking for 30 years of the best 'Day Of ' planning tips visit (weddings.limo/twr-planning) to shortcut some of your planning hours and help you dot your i’s and cross your t’s for everything transportation-planning-related! •

Photo by Melissa Weber Photography

Serving Kitchener, Waterloo, Guelph, Cambridge and area Since 1990

Creating unforgettable weddings for 30 years Thousands of happy Wedding couples Top Reviews on TheWeddingRing.ca for over 10 years

Photo by David & Kara Weddings

Photo by Brian Limoyo Photography

Photo by DA Photography

Photo by Bassem Wahba

Covid Invitation Etiquette PHOTOS, this page and next: chasingmoments.ca unless otherwise stated (Styling mats courtesy of emilypaintsevents.com) EXPERT TIP BY LIZ KOTSAMANES DESIGNS (♥) (www.lizkotsamanesdesigns.ca) Cambridge, ON

From guest list restrictions to meal service to dancing, COVID-19 continues to dramatically change the wedding landscape. Your wedding stationery can help you manage these restrictions while communicating these changes with your guests beautifully and stylishly. Liz from Liz Kotsamanes Designs gives us a few tips on how to use your stationery to its fullest….

Save the Date cards are going to be very important for the next few years! In general, Save the Dates go out a year in advance. If you’re a planning a wedding that will take place before Fall of 2021, you may or may not want to send out Save the Dates. If you’re committed to a wedding regardless of restrictions, send your Save the Dates. Be sure to include a method of updating your guests as the day approaches. If you’re considering postponing depending on restrictions, skip the Save the Dates for now. For weddings after Fall 2021, once restrictions are removed, there will be a lot of celebrations happening, especially weddings that were deferred for a year or two. Be sure to send a Save the Date card so that the people that you really want to be there will be able to come.

Pre-COVID sending your invitations 3 months prior to your wedding was usually sufficient. You may need to delay sending invitations if conditions are uncertain when approaching the big day, so 3 months prior may just not work for you in the current climate. Try to give your guests at least 2 months’ notice if possible but be sure to include a wedding website address that they can check, and consider using an online reply system to avoid having to wait anxiously by the mailbox, or having to make many, many phone calls.

Because things are constantly changing, it is an excellent idea to 88 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

collect guest emails whenever possible. Email is a quick, and easy way to notify your guests of any changes without having to wait for the post office. One way you can do this is by including a spot on your RSVP cards, or adding a section on your wedding website to collect additional information if RSVP’ing online.

Creating a wedding website or wedding group on social media is more important than ever before. Guests can check back for any changes or new information prior to the wedding, and if you are in a pinch, you can always have your guests RSVP via the website, closer to the date of the event. When you don’t have to wait for RSVPs in the mail, it can buy you as much as an extra 2-3 weeks of time you wouldn’t otherwise have when waiting for a paper RSVP. If there are still restrictions in place, you many need to use your invitations to help manage your guest list. You many need to have guest lists based on numbers: 100 guests, 50 guests, 25 guests, etc.

You may have to invite less guests than you had hoped, but guests will understand the need to limit gathering numbers during this time and clear communication can help prevent anyone from being offended or upset.

One of the most common questions I hear is “How do I tell people that kids aren’t invited, but in a nice way?” If you decide to not include children at a reception, be consistent in your message.

You can set the tone and manage expectations by using the correct wording in your invitations. The number one way to let guests know who is invited is by being very specific in addressing the envelopes.

If Mr. and Mrs. John Smith are invited, make sure that is clear on the envelope, by simply including only their names. Omitting the words ‘and family’, or the children’s names specifically should be clear

PHOTO: averhoevephotography.com

who is actually invited. Adding the words ‘adults only reception’ is another option.

You can also use your reply cards to ensure that you have an accurate guest count that complies with restrictions as your day approaches.

Including the words ‘we have reserved x number of seats for you’, then you, or your stationer will fill in the blank with the appropriate number of guests, helps ensure there is no confusion on numbers.

You can also choose to pre-fill in the names of your guests on the RSVP cards for them, so that it is abundantly clear who is invited.

These methods should also help ensure that you have an accurate guest count.

PRO-TIP: Sometimes guests forget to fill in their names when RSVPing—leaving you scratching your head and waiting for the rest of the cards to arrive to figure out who sent it. An easy way to avoid this problem is to either lightly number the back of the RSVP with a pencil, and match them to a corresponding guest list, or to get a black light pen and reader and put a secret number on the back. It can save you a lot of time and aggravation!

You can also use reception stationery to help ensure that guests conform to COVID guidelines. Menu cards and place settings can ensure people sit within in their family bubbles. Table cards can communicate reminders such as to wear masks and sanitize. A little creativity can make an unfortunate necessity beautiful!

All the rules and restrictions don’t mean that you have to sacrifice style and design. If you’re looking for something truly unique, consider having a custom design made that really speaks to who you are as a couple. You can carry that design all throughout the wedding by incorporating the use of custom colours that match your décor, a custom logo, invitations, day of stationery such as favour tags, custom wine labels, beautiful menus, and so much more!

Looking for a budget-friendly custom invitation option? Find a stationer with semi-custom invitations available. They are still beautiful, and of a high-quality, but already designed, and as such, they are much less costly than having a custom design created.

When to order your invitations—generally speaking, for a custom design, you should book your stationer right after you book your venue, or approximately one year prior to the wedding date. For a semi-custom design, booking 6-8 months prior should be plenty of time.

How to choose your stationer- Choosing the right stationer to execute your vision is important. Before deciding on who you will work with, pay close attention to their aesthetic- you wouldn’t go to the Gap and expect to find formal wear, so going to a stationer who does fine-art stationery, expecting a custom illustration of yourselves as caricatures is probably not going to be the best fit. Not every stationer is a one-stop shop for every style—be sure to work with a designer whose previous work you really love. • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 89

Covid and Your 2021 Wedding

PHOTOS, this page and next: hrmphotography.com EXPERT TIP BY UNMISTAKABLY YOU (www.unmistakablyyou.com) London, ON

If you’re like 90% of engaged couples right now, you’re freaking out about what your wedding might, could, and won’t look like. First, take a deep breath, and know that you’re not alone. Second, know that there are lots of options you can investigate that will still allow you to have a positive wedding experience, and create memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

With that in mind, Amy from Unmistakably You offers the following advice to consider as you navigate wedding planning outside the scope of “normal”.

PRIORITIZE: It’s vital that you and your partner are on the same page about what you want for your wedding, now more than ever.

You and your partner are going to need to have some difficult chats about what your ‘perfect’ wedding day looks like, and what concessions you’re willing to make if COVID-19 is lingering by your scheduled date. Is it a deal-breaker if you can’t have a dance? What if there are still gathering restrictions in effect and you must slash your guest list? Are you OK with a celebration with only your very closest friends and family, or will you be unhappy if you’re not able to invite your full ‘perfect world’ guest list and dance until dawn?

90 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

I’d suggest that there are likely four major things at play when you’re determining which compromises you’re willing to make in this case: • Will you feel cheated if you’re limited to a smaller number of guests than you would like to invite? If not, I suggest making several guest list options. Then, you can adjust accordingly a few months before the wedding when you have a better idea of what the current restrictions are.

• Will you be devastated if you can’t have a dance/freely mingle throughout the event? If not, there are lots of ways you can create an engaging and interactive event… keep reading for those!

• Is it a no-go if you and your guests must wear masks? Keep in mind that if the current recommendations of ‘social bubbles’ are still in effect, you can likely still capture family photos, and possibly wedding party photos without masks.

• Do your current life situation/beliefs necessitate getting married sooner rather than waiting? If you’re planning to start a family soon or want to be married before buying your first home together, or otherwise just want to be married already, perhaps compromising on your dream vision is the right call right now.

CREATE A VARIABLE GUESTLIST: If you decide to go ahead with your 2021 date regardless of restrictions, I’d suggest creating several guestlist plans; A - ‘perfect world’, B - 100 guests, C - 50 guests and D <25 guests, and double checking with your venue that they can accommodate these options ahead of time. If you’re newly booking a venue now, ensure that you don’t sign any contracts that commit you to a minimum number of guests.

I’d recommend avoiding sending Save-the-Date cards at this point, as they might be wasted if you have to postpone or cut your guest list. It’s traditional to wait until 8-12 weeks prior to the wedding to send your formal invitations. At that point, you will hopefully be able to determine how many guests you can safely invite. You might also consider foregoing printed invites and send them digitally, which gives you the added benefit of being able to modify the date more readily and having email addresses to contact your guests if plans have to change at the last minute.

While it may not be ideal to have to cut several of your guests, if you’ve decided to go ahead with the wedding, any guest who didn’t make the cut will hopefully understand. You may decide to livestream the event, or hold a larger reception at a later date to include those guests, but if neither of those are options, discuss with your partner what to say to the guests who didn’t make the final cut.

Honesty is always the best policy. Chances are, if you have a personal conversation with someone who is not invited to the event and say something like “I’m so very sorry. I would have loved to have had you at our wedding, but we just can’t accommodate our ideal guest list with the current restrictions and still keep everyone safe”, the wouldbe guest should be reasonable and understanding.

PLAN AN ENGAGING EVENT THAT DOESN’T RELY ON DANCING: If dancing is still prohibited at the time of your wedding, there are lots of creative ways you can entertain your guests, create a memorable experience, and make memories you’ll cherish forever. As long as you’re abiding by any current physical distancing, masking, or gathering restrictions, and if you know your guests and the kind of entertainment they’ll enjoy (i.e. don’t have a trivia contest if your guests are all shy wallflowers), you can craft a reception that’ll have guests talking for months.

• Consider changing up the traditional catering (if your venue allows) and bringing in more interactive food trucks, or tableside service. Hire a mixologist to craft custom cocktails for guests, or flair bartenders to put on a show.

• Hire a caricaturist, magician, or busking musician to circulate through your guests during a cocktail reception.

• Create an interactive event or contest, such as a trivia or games tournament, or karaoke night (with safety precautions).

• Film and screen an engagement movie, livestream speeches of guests who couldn’t be there in person, put on a fireworks show, or hire an ensemble to play a concert for your guests.

• Change up the timeline so that guests won’t miss the dancing.

Host a Sunday brunch wedding, an afternoon cocktail reception, or a candlelit ceremony followed by a dessert reception.

Unfortunately, there’s no perfect answer here. Chances are, compromises in expectations, vision, timing, guestlist, or budget will likely have to be made. What’s important is that you and your partner come to a solution that’s right for you, considering your current life situation. While I wish I could wave my magic wand and make this all go away, I can’t. Know that if you’re struggling, and you ever want someone to talk through things with, I’m here. I’d love to chat. Hang in there. ♥ Amy • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 91

Top 10 Tips for Cakes During a Pandemic

PHOTO: kimkalynphotography.com EXPERT TIP BY CORINA LUDWIG, PASSION FOR CAKES (www.passionforcakes.com) Victoria, BC

This year is certainly like no other. While your celebration will surely be a little different, the best news of all.... Love is not cancelled! Like many businesses, the wedding cake industry is no exception to the changes and has had to adapt to survive and thrive. It has been confirmed that COVID-19 is not a food-borne virus, so you can not catch it from food you eat. According to the CDC, the USDA, and the FDA, there is no evidence that the coronavirus has been spread through either food or food packaging. So, while we may have to adapt our original wedding vision, the best part of celebrating a wedding during a pandemic, is you can be creative, personal, and intimate.

Here are 10 tips of trends to consider when planning sweet treats during a pandemic.

SOURCE BAKERIES FOLLOWING COVID PROTOCOLS While everyone is trying to do their part, take some time to ensure that you’re choosing your vendor wisely. Be sure your bakery is food safe certified and is following all the standard protocols. A site visit for a cake tasting is a perfect way to scope out their safety and COVID safe protocols.

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ASK ABOUT DELIVERY METHODS You want to ensure that you baked treats are well boxed, wrapped, or covered for delivery and on-site. While the risk of transmission is low through food packaging, good handwashing and sanitization should be practiced when handling any food items and their packaging by both the person delivering the goods and the person(s) receiving them.

INQUIRE ABOUT FAKE CAKES Good news! Your tiered dream wedding cake is still possible. If you like the look of a traditional large, tiered cake, but are only serving a small group, ask your favorite bakery for a fake cake. The bottom tiers of the cake are made with Styrofoam and only the top tier is edible. All covered with edible icing – so it all looks real and can be decorated as it normally would. Bonus: it’s much more cost effective!

ASK FOR A MINI CAKE FOR TWO Ask for a simple 1 tier cake for two. A six inch round Mini Wedding cake is ideal for the two of you to cut and share. Ideal for a garden picnic or simple affair and no extra mess or clean-up.

PHOTO: Tyson Airaksinen Photography

PHOTO: Rita Steenssens Photographer | Studio 1079

SOURCE INDIVIDUAL TREAT BOXES Just like your favorite charcuterie box, have your local bakery make you treat boxes filled with individual cakes, cookies, and fresh bakes good. Perfectly personalized and COVID safe.

CONSIDER INDIVIDUALLY WRAPPED GLAZED DONUTS Have a small budget? Consider supporting your local donut shop and buy individual donuts. It’s great because you can buy small quantities and get numerous flavors. Buy your own bags and wrap them individually. Then set them on named place settings or as a ‘grab and go’ on the way out.

EXPLORE CAKE POPS, CANDY APPLES, AND OTHER DESSERTS ON A STICK Whether it’s a cake pop, your favorite caramel dipped apple, or other sweet treat on a stick, individually wrapped desserts that are limited contact are a safe way to protect your guests and enjoy a dessert (or two!).

WHO DOESN’T LOVE CAKE TRUFFLES? Perfect for individual servings, these delectable treats are a true palette pleaser. Rich chocolate is always a party favorite and they satisfy the sweet tooth without all the extra carbs!

LOOK FOR CAKE SHOTS Whether you include booze or not – the perfect takeaway – is the cake shot. Either a vanilla shooter or your favorite layered tiramisu – a small glass jar or shooter is a perfect way to get the best of the best and not have to share!

KEEP YOUR EVENT SMALL AND CONTROLLED Limiting your event to a controlled and intimate size, ideally in an outdoor space with physical distancing and proper protocols are still the best assurances to a safe and happy event. All the best to you and your loved ones. Stay Safe!

MORE ABOUT PASSION FOR CAKES | Passion for Cakes creates one-of-a-kind, custom cakes. corporate, kids, wedding, and birthday cakes for the Greater Victoria, BC area. Tips and Advice by Corina Ludwig corina@passionforcakes.com • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 93

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 45

The Long Way to Happily Ever After

ABOUT LITTLE MUSHROOM CATERING (littlemushroomcatering.ca) Cambridge, ON: Using

(♥)

fresh and locally farmed ingredients to make the best from-scratch food, Little Mushroom ensures that they offer something delicious for everyone – including those with dietary restrictions and allergies. That said, they offer more than just delicious, custom wedding menus. Little Mushroom Catering offers event coordination, event rentals, set-up, tear down, bar services, edible wedding favours, cakes, custom menus, competitive pricing, and more!

PHOTO: chasingmoments.ca

EXPERT TIP BY KATELYN FANCY, WPICC WEDDING COORDINATOR AT LITTLE MUSHROOM CATERING (♥) (www.littlemushroomcatering.ca) Cambridge, ON

For those who decide to move forward with their wedding, you need to be prepared for the unexpected.

Anything from a change in venue and guest count, to a change in the way you feed and entertain your guests. No one could have anticipated that these would be things you’d need to prepare for, nor did you think that hand sanitizer would be an essential part of your décor! Here are some tips to help you get through.

activities to keep your guests entertained. We have seen couples put on a fireworks show, play the shoe game, do trivia, musical bingo, or even hire a magician.

If having that traditional dance party is something important to you and your fiance, consider eloping and then have a wedding reception once there are fewer restrictions.

3. Budget: With a smaller guest count, your overall costs decrease. This could be a blessing in disguise as it gives you the opportunity to upgrade the food and bar menu, décor elements, and entertainment if you desire. You may decide to add another dinner course or choose a fancier dessert, upgrade your cutlery, add a beautiful floral backdrop, or maybe upgrade to that beef tenderloin you originally wanted. Small details like these can make your wedding day even more unique and personalized.

PHOTO: littlemushroomcatering.ca

PHOTO: chasingmoments.ca

COVID-19 was the centre of attention for the vast majority of 2020, which has wedding professionals and engaged couples all trying to figure out a “new normal.”

Trying to plan one of the most important events of your life may be a whole other level of stress when everyone is already trying to wrap their heads around a myriad of new rules. With frequent announcements that could change everything about the event, from no dancing, limited guest count, and bar closing times, it has been difficult to plan ahead and keep track of these rules.

1. Style of Service: Your guests will remember the food, vows, and the venue when thinking back on your wedding. As a catering company, we have seen big changes for couples when it comes to food. Not only are we seeing smaller guest counts, but many couples are opting for a plated meal, or in many instances, have asked us to prepare individually packaged meals for guests to take home after the ceremony.

4. Asking for Help: Your wedding vendors are here to help; whether you need someone to live stream your ceremony, or maybe you need to scramble to find a different venue, form of entertainment, or change your menu or floorplan. Most of your wedding vendors would be happy to provide advice, suggestions, and try to help you navigate wedding planning during these unprecedented times. You do not have to do it all alone!

2. Entertainment: When it comes to entertainment, this is your chance to get creative. Even though you may be unable to dance, there are plenty of fun

Remember that regardless of when you get married, the love you share with one another is what is most important! •

PHOTO: Scott Whitten

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 95

Maximizing Accessories for a Micro Wedding EXPERT TIP BY BLAIR NADEAU BRIDAL ADORNMENTS (www.blairnadeau.com) Toronto, ON

96 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

Micro, Zoom, Intimate, Elopements, all the wedding terms we have been hearing about and navigating during the current new normal.

Blair Nadeau shares her experience and tips to maximize your accessories.

"I’ve recently had many brides-to-be inquire about what these smaller scale weddings mean for their bridal attire and if they should accessorize to suit the more intimate occasion.

We have seen a lot of trends come forward out of the current climate and accessories are still key. Even though you might not be having the big wedding (this year), you can still showcase your personal style through your adornments.

Lets start with veils, the staple of bridal accessories. We have been seeing a big trend towards the birdcage veil (yippee!). Elopements and city hall weddings are perfect for this sweet little number.

Birdcages are petite, simple, modern, and pair beautifully with a jump suit, chic white suit, or tea length dress.

As weddings are becoming more intimate, we are also seeing a big rise in Juliet veils. As more intimate weddings tend to feel more romantic, there is something really special about pairing a Juliet veil with an intimate wedding. These beautiful veils bring a sense of yesteryear romance and tradition, paired with an heirloom or lace gown.

delicate necklaces and intimate pieces that work well on a smaller scale. Pair these tiny details with lace dresses and boho style gowns.

For the maximalist trend, statement earrings are still all the rage. If you are having a zoom wedding, you will want to make a statement with your adornments so your aunt and uncle watching from their living room can see all the details, and why not have some fun with your accessories! Statement earrings are ranging in design from shoulder grazing clay florals, to oversized hoops, chunky pearls and geometric designs. We love pairing a statement earring with a modern sheath dress or a simple silk gown.

Can you still wear a crown to a small wedding? Sure, why not!?

As a purveyor of crowns, I say you can ALWAYS wear a crown, a crown just adds that extra little something. However headbands are quickly becoming the new crown for 2021. Designers are showcasing beautiful pearl headbands as well silk and velvet padded hairbands, embellished with rhinestones, pearls and flowers. These new silhouettes are chic and modern. In addition to headbands, we are seeing oversized scrunchies and bows paired with a low ponytail.

The last two years there has been a big focus on extra long cathedral veils as well as pearl and crystal embellished veils. However, given the nature of the smaller more intimate weddings, brides are turning to simple understated veils for their smaller weddings and saving the big dramatic veils for their later date receptions.

Another beautiful trend is Heirloom accessories. These will never go out of style and now more then ever, we are seeing brides wearing cherished pieces from years past to their weddings.

The pandemic has made us realize how important family is and we are seeing a big resurrection on family ties. Brides are opting to pair heirloom jewelry & veils with a few modern accessories to show their own personal bridal style. Pearls are also a timeless and romantic trend that have continued to rise in popularity over the last year and we see that continuing into 2021.

We’ve been seeing two main trends with jewelry over the past nine months. There are two distinct looks; minimalism and maximalism, opposite ends of the spectrum. For the minimalism trend, brides are opting for more delicate pieces, pearl earrings and bracelets,

Although your wedding might look a bit different then you originally imagined, know that a small intimate wedding can be just as beautiful and special and no matter how you choose to accessorize, your personal style will always shine through." - B •

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 97

PHOTO: maximumdj.com

The Perfect Wedding Flow EXPERT TIP BY MAXIMUM MUSIC (♥) (www.maximumdj.com) Toronto, ON Think of your wedding day as a series of events: ceremony, cocktails, dinner, speeches, and the dance. Added together each of these events makes up your entire wedding day. Music connects these events together, and your DJ and live musicians can help all the parts of your ceremony and reception flow perfectly. Rod from Maximum Music tells us how to achieve the perfect wedding flow.

Pre-ceremony: Let your DJ or your live musicians play for 30 minutes as guests arrive so there is a sense of being in the right place. Music is also welcoming and provides atmosphere.

Ceremony: When it is time to start, the music fades down to silence for 10 to 20 seconds. Suspense is an amazing way to put an exclamation point on your processional into the ceremony. Your processional music is an intentional piece, not just a continuation of the pre-ceremony music.

Once the ceremony is finished you have a burst of energy with a fun recessional song and then upbeat cocktail reception.

You’re married! Now it is time to segue into the reception. This is a great opportunity for music to connect the cocktails to dinner to the dance.

Pre-dinner cocktail hour: If live music is in your plan keep them for cocktails as the cost for an extra hour or so is negligible once you have them there for the ceremony.

When planning the flow of your reception, you should bundle several elements together.

Bundling makes sure that your guests 98 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

are present and paying attention for key moments. It also helps to avoid you standing up and sitting down repeatedly. Pre-dinner cocktail hour starts off the reception, after that you can mix a few elements up in your sequence. Do you want to have your first dance as you’re introduced? Do you want speeches sprinkled throughout dinner or all at once at the end? Creating your reception plan is a lot like creating a recipe. Creating a sequence with a logical order will create a great flow.

You’ll also want to group the traditional dances in your sequencing. Your first dance as a married couple, parent dances, wedding party dances, and other special dances can be bundled together at the beginning or end of dinner.

The kissing game, centrepiece giveaway, shoe game, slide shows and all that other traditional wedding stuff… For a while, weddings were trending away from these types of addons. With all the changes that COVID has wrought in weddings, we’re seeing a resurgence of these as a way to entertain guests when dancing isn’t allowed due to restrictions. Including these is entirely optional depending on how you envision your wedding.

Flow in the dancing. In the earlier part of the evening the music is often not as loud. We play a bit more to the older guests so they have the fun wedding reception experience and then work towards your personal music taste as the night progresses and the volume can increase. During the early evening is when you will see a set of those Greek dances or polkas if that is your

family’s thing.

We like to play the music in sets of 2 or 3 songs so that the party does not feel disjointed. Sets allow people who like a type of music to hit the dance floor and get 10 to 15 minutes of dancing before we segue to something different. We work with the requests you provided us and weave the music into something awesome.

We are cool with requests on the fly but also this is the time to have fun and trust that we will make the right choices for music based on what is happening in real time. We are not there to break new music or be artistic.

We are there to build a soundtrack that is unique to you and your guests.

If you want to do the bouquet and/or garter toss bundle them with announcing the late-night food service just before the photographer leaves around 10:30 or 11:00 pm. We will follow the lead of your catering team but typically this is a simple announcement and not a full stop to the party.

1:00 am finish. End on a high note and finish off big rather than trying to keep high energy until 2:00 am. There are exceptions but for most couples, it has been a long day and they are happy to tidy things up at 1:00 am and get back to the hotel room.

ABOUT MAXIMUM MUSIC | Maximum Music is a Toronto based wedding DJ service serving Southern Ontario and owner Rod McMahon can be reached at rod@ maximumdj.com •

PHOTOS, this page: gary-evans.ca

What is a Pop Up Wedding and Why is it Awesome?

EXPERT TIP BY LOVELY WEDDINGS AND EVENTS (♥) (www.lovelyweddingsandevents.ca) Kitchener, ON

Lovely Weddings & Events shares more on how to get hitched in style at a truly unique elopement experience.

"Long before we ever heard the words “social distancing” or “unprecedented times”, we were a team designing, planning, and executing stunning weddings and events. Like a lot of designers, we were working on elaborate photoshoots with industry partners to highlight new trends, add to our portfolios, and getting to create without limitations.

It occurred to us, as we were tearing down another beautiful creation, that NO ONE got married in this spectacular vision. There was so much waste, and it never got to be enjoyed by the couples that we were creating it for. With that idea and direction, our Pop Up Weddings were born. Since 2018, we’ve been the witness to so many love stories and are so proud of the inclusive experience we are providing.

We book the venue, create and design the space, collect our team of rock star vendors at the top of their game, and offer that vision to our couples. It’s somewhere between an all-out wedding and showing up at city hall. We work hard to create an intimate experience for our couples and their closest family and friends as they step into our vision as we transform our inspiration board into a real wedding.

We provide an officiant to make it legal, photography, music, décor, florals, planning, toast & treats, all wrapped up in 3 options of packages and pricing to best suit your vision for your wedding starting at

$1999. Because several couples are getting married in the same space on the same day (don’t worry, we work hard to make sure you don’t run into each other or feel rushed), you’re sharing the costs between each other, making a Pop Up Wedding an affordable and awesome option for those looking for an intimate wedding ceremony.

Striving to keep each experience unique is our favourite part of what we do. We move around to unique venues all over Ontario, with out of the box designs that are totally extra.

In 2021, we’re taking our concept and team everywhere from a historic Town Hall from the 1800’s to a stunning winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake where there’s an Instagram shot at every turn. From the historic Georgian Mansion in the heart of Downtown Toronto to a revived Cotton Factory in Hamilton. We can’t wait to get to work on all the fun we have in store.

The most wonderful part of our Pop Up Weddings is our couples. It’s the tears walking down the aisle, the giggles through the vows, the personalized ceremonies, and the unbridled joy after the I Do’s.

These celebrations each hold such a special place in our hearts. From the initial questions through to delivering your images and prints, we are so lucky to experience all the wonderful moments with our couples.

To learn more about our upcoming dates and packages, please visit www.lovelyweddingsandevents.ca" - K • WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 99

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IN DOWNTOWN STRATFORD!

As a historically restored venue, Grayson Mills is one of the most timeless settings for a wedding in picturesque Stratford, Ontario. Designed to bring your romantic and elegant vision to life, the desirable location offers an opportunity for prime wedding photos in the heart of the city. With exposed beams, brick, sprawling windows and a large terrace, couples can select their space from three unique rooms. The historical significance of Grayson Mills is sure to emanate romance enhancing your love story.

www.graysonmills.caBook

114 ERIE ST, STRATFORD, ON N5A 2M4 INFO@GRAYSONMILLS.CA (519) 854-4374

Now!

Top Canadian Staycation Destinations For most engaged couples, planning a destination wedding meant looking at tropical Caribbean. The current travel restrictions have helped to encourage couples to look a for their destination wedding. In the following 6 pages, we introduce you to our Top Destination Wedding Locations. We originally planned for 5, but couldn't narrow it down..

resorts in the sunny little closer to home 6 Canadian Staycation Curated by The Ring

PHOTO: Fogo Island Inn (www.fogoislandinn. ca) Fogo Island, NF VENUE: Forged in the North Photography (www.forgedinthenorth.com) NY Full story: p107 WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 101

Top

Canadian Destination Wedding Location

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort Ucluelet, British Columbia

PHOTO: blackrockresort.com

PHOTO: NEED PHOTO

PHOTO: blackrockresort.com

PHOTO: jenmcleod.com

PHOTO: jenmcleod.com

Nestled between the pristine temperate Rainforest and breathtaking Pacific Ocean, Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is a wonderful wedding destination for couples looking for a West Coast wedding adventure.

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is a 133 suite full service resort featuring Currents Restaurant, Big Beach Bar & Lounge, and Drift Spa. They offer sweeping ocean views which provides the perfect backdrop for your special day!

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort offers many options for ceremonies from a small intimate beach wedding nestled among the rocks, to a more formal ceremony on the patio. Then move your celebration to the Wine Cellar which can accommodate up to 45 people for dinner or for a larger gathering, the Rainforest Ballroom can accommodate up to 120 people. The Chef and culinary team will delight your senses as they offer the very best that Vancouver Island has to offer. Let the Events team help you with all the details and you will not have to lift a finger on your day!

Located in Ucluelet, BC, we live life on the edge!

102 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: jenmcleod.com

• • • • • •

Largest venue on the west coast: can accommodate up to 120 people for ceremony & reception 133 suites Ocean views Indoor & outdoor ceremony options On-site catering Event Manager to assist you with your details included

CONTACT Phone: 250-726-4808 Email: sales@blackrockresort.com Website: www.blackrockresort.com Facebook: @blackrockoceanfrontresort Instagram: @blackrockresort

Ticklebelly Hill Oak Bay, New Brunswick

Top

Canadian Destination Wedding Location

PHOTOS, this page: shannonmayphotography.com Unless otherwise stated PHOTO: kandisebrown.com

• • • • •

Up to 140 guests Full bar service Tables and chairs included Friday to Sunday rental period - exclusive use of the property Onsite accommodations for 8

CONTACT Phone: 506-321-1250 Email: info@ticklebellyhill.com Website: www.ticklebellyhill.com Facebook: @ticklebellyhill Instagram: @ticklebellyhill

Built over 150 years ago, Ticklebelly Hill is the perfect venue for any couple looking for a relaxed setting for their stunning wedding celebration.

Hosting only 25 weddings a year, Ticklebelly Hill is New Brunswick’s premier rustic wedding venue.

In addition to the barn reception space, the facility includes a private outdoor ceremony space with bench seating, arbor, and gorgeous birch tree backdrop. Couples can also treat their guests to latenight s’mores at the on-site bonfire. All the spaces available have been prepared to be the perfect rustic blank slate for couples to bring in their own décor and unique touches to make the space theirs.

Couples have exclusive access to the property for the whole weekend – Friday to Sunday, providing a feeling of complete relaxation from prepping the space and for tear-down too. Starting in 2021, the farmhouse on-site will also be available for weekend rental exclusively for Ticklebelly Hill couples.

The fully renovated farmhouse sleeps up to 8 and will provide the perfect gathering place leading up to the wedding and getting-ready space for the morning of.

The nearby towns of St. Andrews and St. Stephen offer attractions such as whale watching, award-winning horticultural gardens, first-class restaurants, and so many wonderful accommodation options for wedding guests. Wedding guests can easily make a once-in-a-lifetime weekend get-away when invited to a wedding at Ticklebelly Hill.

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 103

Top

Canadian Destination Wedding Location

The Lake House Calgary, Alberta

PHOTO: deseraeevenson.com

PHOTO: loveintherockies.net

PHOTO: loveintherockies.net

Perched directly above Lake Bonavista with large glass windows overlooking the lake, The Lake House is home to one of Calgary’s finest and most creative restaurants as well as a unique setting for weddings.

Exuding rustic elegance, the interior is illuminated with ornate elk antler chandeliers and accessorized with a grand fireplace. Catching your eye when you enter the restaurant, a brand new 130 square foot glass encased wine cellar, as well as a refurbished 21 foot bar from the 1800’s, previously housed in a mercantile shop in Montana, speak to the recent renovations.

The outdoor patio provides the perfect opportunity to step outside, take a moment, and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Rocky Mountain Cuisine is interpreted and presented by Chef Thomas Neukom. Chef Neukom and his team have heralded numerous culinary awards showcasing the regional flavour of Western Canada. Their locally inspired menus are complimented by a diverse wine list offering global selections that are sure to impress. Their caring and dedicated staff look forward to organizing a seamless and inspiring wedding for you and your loved ones. The Lake House is ideal for weddings up to 250 people.

104 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: whitneycowanphotography.com

PHOTO: stephaniecouture.ca

• • • • •

Cozy restaurant overlooking Lake Bonavista Rocky Mountain cuisine Elegant indoor weddings Stunning photo locations Up to 250 guests.

CONTACT Phone: 403-225-6525 Email: lakehouse.events@crmr.com Website: www.lakehousecalgary.com Facebook: @lakehousecalgary Instagram: @thelakehouseyyc

Top

Rustic Wedding at High Country Tree Farm

Canadian Destination Wedding Location

• • • • •

Venue, planning, décor design included in package.

3 different outdoor ceremony sites.

Up to 150 guests in open air reception barn.

Cocktail lawn with mini gazebo and bar for cocktail hour.

"Get ready" suites for couple.

CONTACT Phone: 250-517-0752 Email: wildcountrylife@gmail.com Website: www.rusticwedding.ca Facebook: @rusticweddingsorrento Instagram: @rusticweddingvenuebc

PHOTO: mintphoto.ca

PHOTO: ashlenenairnphotography.com

PHOTO: wildoakcollective.com

PHOTO: wildoakcollective.com

PHOTO: ashlenenairnphotography.com

Sorrento, British Columbia

Rustic Wedding located at High Country Tree Farm is a private venue dedicated to creating beautiful and stress-free weddings. Before they were wedding planners, they were artists. Surrounded by valley and forest, their family tree farm provided a sense of inspiration that one day they could bring something wild to the world. Today that vision remains alive. After countless incredible weddings at their venue, their farm has grown to be a home for passionate memories and cherished legacies.

Rustic Wedding packages includes all décor on hand, wedding planning, the venue and all its amenities, and décor design. Add ons include floral packages incorporating local organic greenery harvested from the farm. Once you book, you’ll receive a full vendor list that includes everything from caterers to accommodations, photography to shuttle services. They will also make suggestions to help you choose the best vendors to match your budget and style.

The venue includes an open 40x80 foot solid post and beam pavilion and three ceremony locations to choose from: “The Pond”, “The Meadow”, or “The Forest” fully customized to your taste.

Follow up your ceremony with lawn games, drinks, and charcuterie on the cocktail lawn. Rustic Weddings is a full-service wedding venue, whose main goal to create relaxed and beautiful weddings that families actually get to enjoy.

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 105

Top

Canadian Destination Wedding Location

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort Halfmoon Bay, British Columbia

PHOTOS, this page: Lucid Imaging

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort, a boutique resort hotel on the Sunshine Coast of BC, offers an accessible oceanfront, a dock, a cove, views of nearby islands, and an inviting lawn overlooking the ocean for wedding ceremonies. It is an ideal spot for an outdoor wedding tent. They have a unique setting, surrounded by nature yet luxurious and sophisticated, and are a multi-year winner of the BC Wedding Awards. Less than 2 hours from Vancouver, guests can arrive by car/ferry combination, by seaplane or helicopter, and by boat.

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort has the capacity to host up to 200 guests on any given day for the wedding ceremony and reception, and for overnight accommodation the resort can sleep up to 116 guests in 4 distinct types of accommodation spread over their 7.5 acres of oceanfront land.

Rockwater is also host many smaller intimate weddings and elopements. It’s an ideal place to elope, having a seaside boardwalk and 13 unique tenthouses. The sanctuary and seclusion of the seaside boardwalk is a perfect backdrop for wedding photos.

They have a full-service restaurant and bar, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, kayak centre, and spa on-site, and rent wedding tents and décor for outdoor weddings. They are able to assist with all aspects of wedding celebrations and offer event packages to make the planning of a wedding or elopement easy and enjoyable.

104 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

• • • • • •

Accessible by car/ferry combination, seaplane, helicopter, and by boat Up to 200 guests for the ceremony & reception Up to 116 overnight guests.

Full-service restaurant/bar Seasonal outdoor swimming pool, kayak centre, spa, yoga.

Perfect for intimate weddings & elopements

CONTACT Phone: 604 885-7038 Email: sandy@cgsam.com Website: www.rockwatersecretcoveresort.com Facebook: @rockwaterresort Instagram: @rockwatersecretcoveresort

Fogo Island Inn Fogo Island, Newfoundland

Top

Canadian Destination Wedding Location

PHOTO: forgedinthenorth.com

PHOTO: alexfradkin.com

• • • • • •

PHOTO: hephotographes.com

Up to 70 guests 29 one of a kind guest rooms A three-course wedding supper (exclusive of alcohol) Access to the Inn’s outdoor and intimate spaces A complimentary upgrade for the newlyweds (subject to availability) A custom-made wedding cake

CONTACT Phone: 709-658-3444 Email: events@fogoislandinn.ca Website: www.fogoislandinn.ca Facebook: @fogoislandinn Instagram: @fogoislandinn

PHOTO: daniellemeredithphotography.com

PHOTO: forgedinthenorth.com

If you want your celebration to be one-of-a-kind, why not do it in one-of-a-kind-place? Hold your ceremony on an island, off an island, with just the two of you, or with 70 of your closest friends and family. New life partners can celebrate their love at one of the four corners of the Earth.

Fogo Island Inn promises you will experience hospitality unlike anywhere else. Their 29 guest rooms were designed to carry forward the richness of outport traditions in concert with the very best contemporary design elements. The world outside their walls, the natural world, receives love, attention, and respect equal to that which they show their guests. Their food is grounded in this place and every meal, from daybreak through midnight and all points in between, is crafted using ingredients fished, farmed, and foraged right there on Fogo Island.

It is an investment to journey and to stay at Fogo Island Inn. Your investment keeps their Island strong. The Inn is a Shorefast social business that optimizes for local employment and reinvests into the community. They’ve designed their prices to be inclusive of a complete hospitality experience: all meals, and most on-island excursions. Any requests within their power to deliver will be met with a smile and without extra charge: laundry services, bicycles, snacks, extra toiletries, and general support and guidance are included in the rate. Worth the investment, a Fogo Island Inn wedding is a trip your guests will never forget.

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 107

Stratford Country Club

stratfordcountryclub.ca 40 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

Photo credit: Heather Dietz Photography

Stratford's Premier Wedding Venue

Top Ontario Staycation Destinations Continuing our feature on destination locations a little closer to home, we've narrowed our focus to Ontario. If we thought it was difficult to choose our top 5 Canadian locations, narrowing down our Ontario choices was even more challenging. From conservatories to resorts to wineries, here are a few of our favourite Ontario Staycation Destination Wedding Locations. Curated by The Ring

VENUE: Stonefield Estate (www.stonefieldsweddings.com) Carleton Place, ON PHOTO: Grace and Golf Studios (www.graceandgoldstudios.com) ON Full story: p119 WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 109

Top

Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

Ontario Destination Wedding Location

Cambridge, Ontario

• • • • • • •

Free-flying butterflies Available year round Micro-weddings for 10-40 guests Ceremonies for 4-160 guests Receptions for 10-130 guests Tropical, picturesque backdrop Private bridal suite

CONTACT Phone: 519-653-1234 x 112 Email: weddings@cambridgebutterfly.com Website: www.cambridgebutterfly.com Facebook: @cambridgebutterflyweddings Instagram: @cambridgebutterflyweddings

PHOTO: joboucherphotography.com

PHOTO: joboucherphotography.com

PHOTO: carlykratzerphotography.com

PHOTO: joboucherphotography.com

PHOTO: carlykratzerphotography.com

Say “No more” to the hassle and uncertainty of flying down south for your destination wedding.

Celebrate your special day in a tropical paradise at Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory, conveniently located one hour west of Toronto, central to Kitchener-Waterloo, Guelph, and Brantford. Escape the elements and let the warmth of the garden oasis whisk you away on a tropical getaway right here in southwestern Ontario.

As you walk down the aisle, along lush garden pathways, free-flying butterflies dance through the air around you. After saying “I do”, commemorate your commitments with a butterfly release and feel the powerful symbolism as you embark on your new journey.

Enjoy exclusive use of the facility with ceremonies for up to 160 guests and receptions for up to 130 guests. If you are saying your “I dos” down south and are looking to invite your guests to celebrate afterwards, a reception at Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory, with the natural, tropical backdrop will have your photos on-theme, with your guests fitting in like they never missed a beat.

This truly unique wedding venue is a hidden gem, blanketed by lush foliage, and illuminated by twinkling lights, creating a romantic and intimate tropical ambiance.

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 111

Top

Ontario Destination Wedding Location

Oakwood Resort Grand bend, Ontario

PHOTOS, this page: oakwoodresort.ca Unless otherwise stated

PHOTO: hrmphotography.com

Close to beautiful Lake Huron, Oakwood Resort is the perfect backdrop for your special day.

Their inclusive wedding packages make planning easy! With multiple ceremony, reception, and photography locations, 122 guest rooms, delicious catering, on-site restaurant, golf course, and private beach access, you'll have the wedding experience you won't ever forget.

• • • •

From your first tour of the Resort, to the Menu tasting, Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties, Rehearsal Dinner, to the Ceremony, Reception and Post-Wedding Brunch, the professional team at Oakwood brings your vision of your big day to reality. Their team of award-winning Chefs, in house Sommelier, and Wedding Coordinators will work together with you to create an experience your friends and family will talk about forever.

• •

Offering multiple beautiful indoor spaces ready to host your guests, ranging from small elopements of 10 or less, all the way up to 220 people, each space boasts a beautiful stone fireplace and rustic features. With dozens of photography opportunities on property, you are guaranteed to have a backdrop you will love.

Up to 220 people Indoor and outdoor ceremony options Guest Room discount for wedding guests Day of Coordination with in house Wedding Coordinator Customizable Wedding Packages Customizable food and wine options

CONTACT

Phone: 519-238-7325 Email: ktopham@oakwoodresort.ca Website: www.oakwoodresort.ca Have your guests stay for a weekend getaway and experience all the wonderful things Grand Bend Facebook: @oakwoodresort Instagram: @oakwoodresort_ has to offer, including private access to the beautiful shores of Lake Huron.

112 • The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

Queen's Landing Niagara-On-THe-Lake, Ontario

Top

Ontario Destination Wedding Location

PHOTOS, this page:: vintage-hotels.com

, • • • • •

Up to 300 guests 4 event spaces with 7,200 square feet Indoor and outdoor ceremony & reception spaces Award-winning, perfectly prepared cuisine Wedding packages to choose from

Step into a fairytale when you visit this lakeside Georgian mansion, where sophistication and Old-World elegance meet. Say “I do” to an elegant venue overlooking the Niagara River, the picture-perfect backdrop to your special day. The professional planners will make your dream wedding a reality.

CONTACT

Your luxurious and picturesque wedding awaits at Queen’s Landing. This neoclassical hotel offers old world elegance combined with contemporary amenities. Let their luxurious reception rooms, mouth-watering menus, and friendly and attentive service make a lasting impression on you and your guests. Whether you are planning a smaller, more intimate gathering or a large opulent affair for up to 300 guests, special details like the grand sweeping staircase, polished marble and wood floors, grand piano, elegant ceiling fixtures, atrium and rock garden waterfall will set the perfect stage for your wedding day.

Phone: 905-468-2195 Email: lrutledge@vintage-hotels.com Website: www.vintage-hotels.com/queens-landing Facebook: @vintagehotelsweddings Instagram: @vintagehotelsweddings

Queen’s Landing offers 140 guestrooms of various types and includes all the extras to ensure you and your guests are ultra-relaxed during your stay including an indoor saltwater pool, cedar sauna, and oversized infinity hot tub. For added celebration, groups can gather together at Tiara Restaurant, Bacchus Lounge, or on the Queen’s Landing Patio which offers beautiful harbour views WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 113

Top

Ontario Destination Wedding Location

The Gananoque Inn & Spa 1000 Islands, Ontario

PHOTOS, this page: gananoqueinn.com

Imagine your ceremony on the lush lawn of the Gananoque Inn & Spa beside the gleaming St. Lawrence River. Or perhaps a cozy winter wedding is more your style. Whichever you choose, they can assist you in planning every detail for weddings up to 80 people including helping you find a photographer, florist, musician, DJ, limousine, or horse drawn carriage.

They can even help you find just the right person to perform your very personal ceremony.

With a full time wedding coordinator, a talented, accommodating chef and caring staff, your every need will be tended to.

Whether you are planning an intimate party for 40, or a dinner for 80, they can accommodate your needs with a small private dining room or a large reception room that opens directly onto the waterfront. The gardens of the Gananoque Inn and the St. Lawrence River provide the perfect backdrop for wedding photos. Guests can enjoy the ambience of the Inn, perhaps sipping champagne and enjoying canapés, while a photographer captures a lifetime of memories.

Enviably located on the Gananoque waterfront, in the heart of the Canadian 1000 Islands, the Gananoque Inn & Spa can accommodate you and your guests for a wedding weekend you’ll never forget!

114 • The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

• • • • •

Up to 80 guests Waterfront ceremonies On-site catering and accommodations Full service aesthetic spa Indoor & outdoor ceremony options

CONTACT Phone: 613-382-2165 Email: sales@gananoqueinn.com Website: www.gananoqueinn.com Facebook: @gananoqueinnandspa Instagram: @gananoqueinn

Aquatopia Conservatory Carp, Ontario

Top

Ontario Destination Wedding Location

PHOTO: sizzlewithdecor.com

PHOTO: Ryan Gordan Photography

• • • • •

PHOTO: aquatopiaconservatory.com

Up to 150 guests Tropical greenhouse In-house floral and décor team In-house catering Waterfall, water features and Koi pond, and outside pond Glass Ceiling for amazing fireworks show

PHOTO: jessilauren.com

PHOTO: mochatreestudios.com

Delight your senses at this indoor oasis. The moment you step inside Aquatopia Conservatory, you immediately feel a positive sense of place, which creates a healthy connection within yourself and the natural environment that surrounds you. A healthy feeling of peace and tranquility flows over you as you breathe in the warm fresh scent of vitality.

CONTACT

As an all-inclusive venue, you can leave the styling and stressing to their professional wedding team. They will manage every detail of your gorgeous day, and provide you with a relaxing and romantic experience, so you can be free to delight and dazzle your guests with grace and style, surrounded by the natural beauty of this lush, green tropical paradise. Moreover, the glass ceiling of the facility opens to the outdoor fresh air and breeze, giving you the outdoor wedding, you always dreamed about, without the risk of rain ruining your day.

Phone: 613-225-7663 Email: events@aquatopiaconservatory.com Website: www.aquatopiaconservatory.com Facebook: @aquatopiaconservatory Instagram: @aquatopia_conservatory

Celebrate your wedding day in a tropical splendor, but without the expensive airfare. Recite your vows surrounded by vibrant foliage, while your photographer captures you at your best, bathed in natural light. Indulge in a mouth-watering gourmet menu prepared by their skilled culinary team, then dance the night away under a glass ceiling in full view of the night sky, surrounded by tumbling waterfalls and lush green foliage. Aquatopia is Ottawa’s most unique wedding venue.

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WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 115

Top

Hessenland Inn & Schatz Winery

Ontario Destination Wedding Location

zurich, Ontario

• • • • • •

Up to 180 guests 3 private event spaces Overnight guest accommodations Outdoor ceremony & reception locations Full bar service On-site catering

CONTACT Phone: 519-236-7707 Email: events@hessenland.com Website: www.hessenland.com Facebook: @hessenland Instagram: @hessenlandschatz 116 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: taylorhughesphotography.com

PHOTO: taylorhughesphotography.com

PHOTO: taylorhughesphotography.com

PHOTO: jorgepoliophotography.com

PHOTO: hollydaltonphotography.com

Located along the shores of Lake Huron between Bayfield and Grand Bend, Hessenland Inn & Schatz Winery offers a unique combination of history, innovation, and European elegance. Original exposed stone walls in the Coach House Hall pairs perfectly with the unique reception bar space that overlaps onto the expansive gardens and vineyard exclusive to you and your guests.

Whether you're hosting an intimate weekend with a few loved ones, or 180 of your nearest and dearest, Hessenland is here to welcome you! They are an inclusive venue that welcomes every person that walks through our doors with open arms and hearts.

Their professional team and full-service packages will ensure that no detail is overlooked and make every moment a stress-free, fun, and memorable experience. They are not just a wedding venue- they are here to provide you and your guests an immersive experience of all that Hessenland & Huron County has to offer.

Get Married At Hessenland

Taylor Hughes Photography

Kimberly Roy Photography

Jorge Polio Photography

Taylor Hughes Photography

Every package at Hessenland Inn includes: In-house wedding planning services Day of coordination Sixty minute rehearsal with onsite wedding planner Use of award-winning gardens & more than forty acres of grounds & vineyards Venue rental Complimentary parking

Ceremony & reception set up Linens, glassware, tableware Sparkling wine toast & hors d'oeuvres post ceremony Three course plated meal Two bottles of wine per table Two to six hours of host bar service Couple receives complimentary suite

Kelsi Trotter

www.hessenland.com

519.236.7707

Wedding & Event Coordinator

events@hessenland.com

Top

Nature's Oasis retreat

Ontario Destination Wedding Location

Southwold, Ontario

PHOTO: naturesoasis.ca

PHOTO: wesleyforbesphotography.com

PHOTO: michaelpetrellaphotography.com

PHOTO: jodiealdredphotography.com

PHOTO: dmahoneyphotography.com

Located 15 minutes west of London, Nature’s Oasis is situated on 83 acres of land with many • ponds, bridges, waterfalls, willows, and pristine landscapes. Nature's Oasis offers you exclusive use • of the property for the weekend of your wedding including all areas of the property.

• Nature's Oasis Retreat is the best of both worlds: an amazing outdoor wedding venue and luxurious B&B. Nature's Oasis offers many ceremony locations throughout the property. Your reception is held under their 40 x 60' tent, decorated with lights and a 6' chandelier on a brand new 5000sqft interlocking stone pad. A newly renovated washroom trailer complete with air conditioning, music, overhead lighting, and ash wood trim which features a large deck that is well-lit for convenience and aesthetics. The bar features 2 large serving windows, a fridge to keep those drinks cold and lights throughout the trees surrounding the bar area.

• •

Up to 200 guests Multiple outdoor ceremony locations Tent reception location Amazing views to capture those special moments B&B for the weekend for up to 8 overnight

CONTACT

Your wedding booking comes with exclusive use of the property for the full weekend including the B&B. The luxurious B&B boasts large, rustic, nature themed rooms which sleep up to 8 guests Phone: 519-808-1121 and includes a continental breakfast for those overnight guests. Amenities include an indoor heat- Email: info@naturesoasis.ca Website: www.naturesoasis.ca ed saltwater pool, a hot tub and sauna, all surrounded by a lush tropical paradise.

Your weekend wedding getaway at Nature’s Oasis is sure to please!

116 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

Facebook: @naturesoasisretreat Instagram: @natures_oasis_retreat

Stonefields Estate Carleton place, Ontario

Top

Ontario Destination Wedding Location

PHOTO: stephaniemasonandco.com

PHOTO: brittanyleephotography.com

• • • • • •

PHOTO: stephaniemasonandco.com

Up to 220 guests All-inclusive package pricing with exclusive use of the estate.

Indoor and outdoor spaces Dedicated wedding coordination team.

Exquisite cuisine expertly prepared by our Red Seal-certified Chefs.

Full-service bar with professional bartenders.

CONTACT Phone: 613-253-3313 Email: info@stonefieldsweddings.com Website: www.stonefieldsweddings.com Facebook: @stonefieldsestate Instagram: @stonefields_estate

PHOTO: laurakellyphotography.ca

PHOTO: graceandgoldstudios.com

At Stonefields Estate, rustic elegance meets decadent cuisine and high-end hospitality for your wedding celebration. When you book this 120 acre heritage estate, you get so much more than stunning scenery. Enjoy the personalized service and exclusive use of the venue.

Start your special day surrounded by friends and family in the Stonefields Farmhouse. Inspired by the stunning homes of Provence, it is the perfect place to get dressed, sip champagne, and pose for photos. You’ll have exclusive use of the Great Room, kitchen, living room, three guest rooms, three bathrooms, and elegant bridal suite.

Say “I do” under a towering canopy of trees in front of the 200-year-old farmhouse. Or choose the Ceremony House for views of the windswept fields as you say you vows beneath a stunning chandelier. Take advantage of the estate’s breathtaking photo backdrops – from open fields, lush groves, and flowering gardens, to log cabins, stone farmhouse, and vintage barn. Family and friends can an enjoy a relaxing cocktail on the patio and covered verandah while they await your return. Then spend the evening dining on exquisite cuisine and dancing under glittering chandeliers of the Loft. This turn-of-the-century barn has been lovingly restored as a breathtaking wedding reception venue. With towering beams and 35-foot cathedral ceilings, the Loft offers the perfect backdrop for the newlyweds’ grand entrance.

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 119

PHOTO: anneedgarphoto.com @

THE

S H O W:

P H O T O G R A P H Y, MUSIC,

VENUES, T R AV E L

T R A N S P O R TAT I O N ,

WEDDING SPECIALISTS, B E A U T Y,

DESIGNERS LIFE

&

&

H E A LT H ,

BARRIE BRANTFORD CAMBRIDGE GUELPH HAMILTON KITCHENER-WATERLOO LONDON

D E C O R AT O R S ,

WEDDING

GIFTS,

FA S H I O N

BUDGET

FAV O U R S ,

&

FORMAL

SPECIALISTS,

WEDDING

SUPPLIES

WEAR,

OFFICIANTS, &

MORE

MUSKOKOA NEWMARKET ORILLIA SARNIA STRATFORD WINDSOR/CHATHAM WOODSTOCK

REGISTER FOR FREE ADMISSION AT:

www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

ENJOY THE FUN AND PLANNING OF A WEDDING EXPO FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME, DESIGNED TO FEEL LIKE YOU ARE AT THE SHOW!

Ontario Bridal Show Calendar Full list (updated yearyear round!) can be found @ theweddingring.ca ♥ Full listofofbridal bridalshows shows (updated round!) can be found @ theweddingring.ca ♥

THE RING’S BARRIE WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-31st, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S STRATFORD WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-31st, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S GUELPH WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-Feb 2, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S YORK REGION WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-31st, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S KW WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-Feb 2, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S WOODSTOCK WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-Feb 2, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S SARNIA WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-31st, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S LONDON WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-Feb 2, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S CAMBRIDGE WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-Feb 2, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S HURON WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-31st, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S HAMILTON WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-Feb 2, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S ORILLIA WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-31st, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S BRANTFORD WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ January 30th-Feb 2, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

THE RING’S MUSKOKA WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ NEW ♥ February 20th-21st, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca THE RING’S WINDSOR-CHATHAM WINTER VIRTUAL WEDDING EXPO ♥ NEW ♥ February 20th-21st, 2021 in the comfort of your own home www.ontarioweddingexpos.ca

WHERE WHEREFABULOUS FABULOUSLOCAL LOCALWEDDINGS WEDDINGSBEGIN! BEGIN!• •121 75

STRATFORD, ON (519) 854-4374 INFO@GRAYSONMILLS.CA WWW.GRAYSONMILLS.CA

Book Now!

WWW.GRAYSONMILLS.CA

Wedding Worthy Venues

The WEDDING WORTHY VENUES section is 40 photo and fact filled pages featuring some of Ontario’s most sought-after wedding venues. From historic estates and wide open spaces for tent receptions to ballrooms that any engaged couple would die for, Wedding Worthy Venues is designed to give you an at-a-glance look at the styles, spaces, indoor and outdoor options, catering choices, and guest capacities at selected wedding venues. Want more? Find everything from colour schemes to wedding menus, and package pricing by checking out wedding venue reviews at TheWeddingRing.ca

VENUE: Four Points by Sheraton London (♥) (www.marriott.com/yxufp) London, ON PHOTO: HRM Photography (♥) (www.hrmphotography.com)

♥

(♥) = Reviewed in theweddingring.ca

pg 146-147 WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 123

Your Day, Your Way

MICRO WEDDINGS AT SILVER LAKES Intimate, outdoor ceremony for up to 60 guests, overlooking Silver Lakes’ beautiful Blue Heron Lakelet.

Enjoy mimosas or Caesars and elegant picnic boxed lunches on our tranquil Blue Heron Meadow.

Our rustic and spacious Pavilion offers a comfortable retreat come rain or shine.

We recommend also booking the Lakes Lounge as a private area for the Groom and his groomsmen to relax.

For more information please contact: The Wedding Boss e: weddings@silverlakesgolf.com t: 905 836 8070 (ext 221)

Dates available for September and October 2020 and throughout 2021 in addition to our full wedding package

SILVER LAKES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB IN EAST GWILLIMBURY PHOTO: thebridallounge.ca

905-836-8070 ext. 221 weddings@silverlakesgolf.com www.silverlakesgolf.com

THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF SILVER LAKES, nestled along the

meandering Holland River, will take your breath away. Mature forests of oak, maple, birch and ash are a stunning backdrop to their quiet lakes and rolling hills. Have an intimate ceremony outdoors along the water’s edge followed by an outdoor cocktail party at their Pavilion. Create the perfect wedding album by taking advantage of the stunning views for your photos.

OUTDOOR CEREMONY AREA | PATIO | UP TO 200 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | FULL SERVICE WEDDING PACKAGES | MICRO WEDDINGS | CEREMONY & RECEPTION OPTIONS

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 125

CRAIGOWAN GOLF CLUB IN WOODSTOCK PHOTO: thebridallounge.ca

PHOTO: thebridallounge.ca

519-462-2743 ext. 226

PHOTO: dudekphotography.com

info@craigowan.com craigowan.com

CRAIGOWAN

GOLF

CLUB

combines the natural beauty of our parkland setting with the finest service for weddings of all PHOTO: otephotography.com

styles. With a gorgeous large patio overlooking the golf course, our private facilities and attentive service will create the wedding of your dreams.

Our contemporary banquet

rooms can accommodate 220 guests for a sitdown meal or 250 for cocktail receptions.

Customizable

packages

are

available.

OUTDOOR CEREMONY AREA | PATIO | UP TO 220 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | FULL SERVICE WEDDING PACKAGES | CEREMONY & RECEPTION OPTIONS PHOTO: michaelsteingard.com

126 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: terryrichards.com

BINGEMANS IN KITCHENER 519-744-1231 ext. 2268 weddings@bingemans.com www.bingemans.com

PHOTO: hauserworks.com PHOTO: latteproductions.ca

PHOTO: sdavidandkara.com

PHOTO: Decorating Dreams

BINGEMANS PROVIDES THE FLEXIBILITY, E X P E R I E N C E A N D S PAC E O P T I O N S to suit any wedding. With six banquet rooms on the Bingemans property, including the Ballroom and Embassy Room, Bingemans is the perfect

PHOTO: photographybyazra.com

setting for all sizes and styles of weddings. Bingemans' expansive grounds are also a beautiful backdrop for pictures to capture your special day.

50-1200

CEREMONY

GUESTS

|

&

ON-SITE

RECEPTION CATERING

OPTIONS |

FULL

AVAILABLE

BAR

SERVICE PHOTO: lovesproutsphotography.com

MULTIPLE

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 127

CONCORDIA CLUB IN KITCHENER 519-745-5617 mail@concordiaclub.ca www.concordiaclub.ca

PHOTOS, this page: one2onephotography.ca (unless otherwise stated)

PHOTO:zsuzsipalphotography.com

Concordia Club is the place

128 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

to hold a beautiful wedding ceremony and reception. From outdoors to indoors, they can host an elegant wedding reception, from small and intimate, to large and lavish. Much more than just Oktoberfest!

UP FULL

TO

450

BAR

ON-SITE

GUESTS SERVICE

|

&

CATERING

BEST WESTERN BRANTFORD HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE IN BRANTFORD 519-753-8651 events@bestwesternbrantford.com www.bestwesternbrantford.com

PHOTO: hauserworks.com PHOTOS, this page courtesy of bestwesternbrantford.com

The Best Western Brantford Hotel & Conference Centre offers an all-in-one venue for your wedding ceremony, dinner, reception, and overnight accommodations. Its large, adjustable space, elegant décor and beautiful crystal chandeliers make it a perfect choice for brides and grooms hosting either a large or intimate wedding.

50 TO 500 GUESTS | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

130 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

|

OVERNIGHT

ACCOMMOADATIONS

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 89

GREY SILO GOLF CLUB IN WATERLOO 519-884-3556 x 153 kreinhardt.greysilo@golfnorth.ca www.golfgreysilo.ca

PHOTOS, this page: garyevansphotography.ca

GREY

SILO

GOLF

CLUB

OFFERS

A

SENSE

OF

RUSTIC SOPHISTICATION

that creates a unique, memorable setting for your wedding event. The classic post and beam interior and floor to ceiling fieldstone gas fireplace make the perfect backdrop for your on-site ceremony. This natural setting will deliver an experience that you and your guests will not soon forget.

UP

TO

130

GUESTS

|

ON-SITE

CATERING

|

FULL

BAR

SERVICE

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 131

REBEL CREEK GOLF CLUB IN PETERSBURG 519-634-8666 hospitality.rebelcreek@golfnorth.ca www.golfnorth.ca/rebelcreek

PHOTOS, this page: michaelsteingard. com U

Rebel Creek Golf Club, a Golf North property, is surrounded by beautiful ponds and gorgeous green trees. The 22,000 square feet of gorgeous space gives the secluded feeling of a destination wedding

location,

ready

to

cater to your ultimate KW or Cambridge area wedding. With year round ceremony options and gorgeous views from the floor to ceiling windows, its easy to see why couples choose Rebel Creek Golf Club for their special day.

INSIDE

&

CEREMONY

&

OUTSIDE RECEPTION

OPTIONS | 50-150 GUESTS | |

ON-SITE FULL

BAR

CATERING SERVICE

PHOTO: lovesproutsphotography.com

132 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

WATERLOO REGIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION IN CAMBRIDGE 519-622-0771 jackie@wrpa.org www.wrpa.org

PHOTOS, this page: sipimage.com

The Waterloo Regional Police Association Banquet & Recreation Centre is situated on 52

acres of beautifully landscaped grounds offering privacy for your special occasion. With the option of indoor or outdoor services, WRPA can accommodate celebrations and events such as family reunions, anniversaries, engagement and retirement parties, and of course, weddings.

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR CEREMONY & RECEPTION OPTIONS | UP TO 300 GUESTS ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

78 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 133

PRESENTING

PHOTO: gotsphotos.com

BY:

Under the direction of Platters Catering, no event too large for The Grand Guelph Banquet & Event Centre team!

“Our Chefs have prepared wonderful menus for countless wedding receptions, baby and bridal showers, funerals,corporate and charity events, and many other creative parties.

Any event can be entirely planned by our professional staff, including; décor, rental equipment and more!!”

519-824-5076 | info@thegrandguelph.ca | www.thegrandguelph.ca

THE GRAND GUELPH BANQUET & EVENT CENTRE IN GUELPH 519-824-5076 info@thegrandguelph.ca www.thegrandguelph.ca

PHOTOS, this page: thegrandguelph.ca Unless otherwise stated

PHOTO: gotsphotos.com

THE GRAND GUELPH BANQUET & EVENT CENTRE is Guelph’s premier event facility, offering over 12,000 square feet of sophisticated, adaptable event space for weddings, corporate, and social occasions that can accommodate 50-1000 guests. Under the direction of Platters Catering, The Grand Guelph is a full service facility catering to all your food and beverage needs. A short drive from Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge, we are located at the corner of highways 6 & 7 in Guelph.

PHOTO: deanpalmer.ca

UP TO 1000 GUESTS | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 135

STRATFORD COUNTRY CLUB IN STRATFORD 519-271-4212 jjacob@stratfordcountryclub.ca www.stratfordcountryclub.ca

PHOTO: averhoevephotography.com

PHOTO: heatherdietz.com PHOTO: averhoevephotography.com

A beautiful backdrop for any style of wedding. Offering the opportunity to have your wedding outdoors surrounded by the historic setting of the Stratford Country Club, coupled with the modern facilities of a fully renovated spacious banquet hall with gorgeous chandeliers and an outstanding view of the golf course, lounge and patio; your event has limitless opportunities to inspire.

UP TO 220 GUESTS | INDOOR & OUTDOOR CEREMONY OPTIONS | AVAILABLE ALL YEAR ROUND | FULL BAR SERVICE | DELICIOUS ON-SITE CATERING BY STRATFORD COUNTRY CLUB

PHOTO: caragilhulaphotography.com

136 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: heatherdietz.com

PHOTO: caragilhulaphotography.com

PHOTO: Best Western Lamplighter Inn

ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES for twenty

BEST WESTERN® PLUS LAMPLIGHTER INN & CONFERENCE CENTRE

to five hundred guests. Host your ceremony in front of the Atrium gazebo, dance and dine with guests in elegant ballrooms, and get treated to special accommodation rates. Have your own Wedding Planner on-site, create your customized menu, take advantage of fantastic indoor photo locations and extensive wedding décor options.

20-500 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ONSITE CATERING | GRAND BALLROOMS | CRYSTAL CHANDELIERS | INDOOR WATERFALLS | GLASS CEILINGS | INDOOR ATRIUM | EXTENSIVE CATERING MENUS | LUXURY OVERNIGHT SUITES | INDOOR GAZEBO CEREMONIES | HONEYMOON SUITES | YOUR ENTIRE WEDDING DAY IS TAKEN CARE OF AT THE BEST WESTERN PLUS® LAMPLIGHTER INN

PHOTO: hrmphotography.com

IN LONDON

WEDDING

519-681-7151 sales@lamplighterinn.ca www.lamplighterinn.ca PHOTO: one12photo.ca

PHOTO: novamarkina.com

PHOTO: one12photo.ca

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 137

STOREHOUSE 408 IN CAMBRIDGE 519-260-8070 contact@storehouse408.com www.storehouse408.com

PHOTO: arianadelmundo.com

STOREHOusE408

PHOTO: otephotography.com

is flexible, unique, and carefully-

planned. Offering a new take on the event space. Featuring over 2,200 square feet of event space

138 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

accomodate up to 180 guests for a cocktail reception and 160 for a seated reception.

UP TO 180 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE & ON-SITE CATERING PHOTO: audreymillsphotography.ca

PHOTO: fosteredphoto.ca

of courtyard, the Storehouse will

PHOTO: otephotography.com

PHOTO:kansasthurlbyphoto.com

plus an additional 2,600 square feet

BEAVERDALE GOLF CLUB IN CAMBRIDGE 519-658-5951 hospitality.beaverdale@golfnorth.ca www.golfbeaverdale.ca

PHOTO: hauserworks.com PHOTO: laurenmortonphotography.ca

PHOTO: lovesproutsphotography.com

Located conveniently eight kilometres north of the 401, Beaverdale Golf Club, a Golf North property, provides the KW region with exceptional banquet facilities boasting high ceilings with wood detail giving it a very cozy and relaxing feel.

It also features a spacious dance floor that is tastefully decorated with a ceiling canopy and flowing white backdrop.

Offering custom wedding packages designed to cater to both your needs and budget.

PHOTO: lovesproutsphotography.com

PHOTO: golfbeaverdale.ca

INSIDE AND OUTSIDE CEREMONY & RECEPTION OPTIONS | UP TO 170 GUESTS | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

PHOTO: lovesproutsphotography.com

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 139

MARQUIS GARDENS IN HAMILTON

PHOTO: AMV Weddings

888-991-9954 nicole@marquisgardens.com

PHOTO: AMV Weddings

At Marquis Gardens, we have three amazing venues to choose from- Hamilton Halls, Ancaster Grande & Burlington at the Waterfront Hotel. Our venues will provide you with all-inclusive wedding packages, delectable culinary delights, dedicated service and stress free planning assistance to bring your dream wedding to life!

THREE LOCATIONS | INDOOR & OUTDOOR WEDDINGS FOR 25 TO 400 GUESTS | ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING PHOTO: AMV Weddings

78 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: AMV Weddings

PHOTO: DoubleTree by Hilton Kitchener

www.marquisgardens.com

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 141

DUNDEE COUNTRY CLUB

PHOTO: simplyemilyphotography.com

IN NEW DUNDEE

Devon C Photography

519-696-3257

PHOTO: lovesproutsphotography.com

hospitality.dundee@golfnorth.ca www.golfnorth.ca/dundee

With your own hands-on wedding coordinator, flexible catering and bar options, cocktail hour by the fireplace, outdoor or indoor ceremony options, photos by the pond, beautiful banquet rooms and an attitude that’s all about you.

INDOOR WEDDINGS FOR 10 TO 140 GUESTS | OUTDOOR CEREMONY OPTIONS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING PHOTO: lovesproutsphotography.com

142 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: lovesproutsphotography.com

PHOTO: simplyemilyphotography.com

Just a few minutes west of Kitchener, Dundee Country Club is a Golf North property that has been home to countless K-W and Cambridge area couples’ weddings for over thirty years.

GRAYSON MILLS IN STRATFORD (OPENING SPRING 2021) 519-854-4374 PHOTOS, this page courtesy of: Grayson Mills

info@graysonmills.ca As a historically restored venue, Grayson Mills is one of the most timeless settings for a wedding in picturesque Stratford, Ontario.

Designed to bring your romantic and elegant vision to life, the desirable location offers an opportunity for prime wedding photos in the heart of the city. With exposed beams, brick, sprawling windows and a large terrace, couples can select their space from four unique rooms. The historical significance of Grayson Mills is sure to emanate romance enhancing your love story.

UP TO 200 GUESTS | CEREMONY & RECEPTION OPTIONS | INSIDE & OUTSIDE OPTIONS | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 143

BEST WESTERN PLUS THE ARDEN PARK HOTEL PHOTOS, this page: courtesy of Best Western Plus Arden Park Hotel

IN STRATFORD PHOTO: simplephoto.ca

519-275-2936

atarnawski@wightman.ca www.ardenpark.ca

We are committed to providing you with exceptional service and elegant banquet facilities that will exceed your expectations. Whether you are planning an intimate wedding for twenty, or an elaborate celebration for four-hundred, we have the facilities available to accommodate your every need. Located in picturesque Stratford, Ontario, there are beautiful gardens within walking distance for pictures you can only dream of as well as unique locations for photo opportunities. Best Western Plus the Arden Park Hotel has 144 luxurious guest rooms and suites to accommodate all of your out of town guests.

UP TO 450 GUESTS | OVERNIGHT GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS | CEREMONY & RECEPTION OPTIONS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING

144 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

CONESTOGA GOLF & CONFERENCE CENTRE Devon C Photography

PHOTO: golfconestoga.ca PHOTO: lindsaycoulterphoto.com

IN WATERLOO 1-888-833-8787 hospitality.conestoga@golfnorth.ca www.golfconestoga.ca

PHOTO: golfconestoga.ca

NESTLED ALONGSIDE THE GRAND RIVER on

250 acres, Conestoga Golf & Conference Centre features some of the most picturesque scenery in the area. With the option of indoor or outdoor services and a spacious two level solarium overlooking the Grand River, we tailor your special day to ensure your wedding dreams come true.

INSIDE AND OUTSIDE CEREMONY & RECEPTION OPTIONS | 50 TO 250 GUESTS | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

PHOTO: golfconestoga.ca

PHOTO: peterbphotography.com

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 145

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON LONDON 519-681-0600 kimsamela@fourpointslondon.com www.marriott.com/yxufp

Photo: hrmphotography.com Photo: wesleyforbesphotography.com

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON LONDON HOTEL & SUITES

Photo: woodgatephotography.com

IS PERFECT FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY. Step into the elegant ballroom surrounded with music and cheers from your loved ones as you start

YOUR HAPPILY EVER AFTER.

Photo: wesleyforbesphotography.com

Four Points London’s team of wedding professionals and award winning Executive Chef will work with you to

CREATE YOUR DREAM WEDDING.

10 TO 600 GUESTS | OUTDOOR GAZEBO

|

MULTIPLE

CEREMONY

RECEPTION

OPTIONS

AVAILABLE

|

OVERNIGHT

CEREMONIES &

|

FULL

BAR

SERVICE

ACCOMMODATIONS Photo: michelleaphoto.com

146 • The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

Photo: woodgatephotography.com

| ON-SITE CATERING Photo: melissaweberphoto.ca

FOUR POINTS

BY SHERATON LONDON Your Happily Ever After Starts Here

OFFERING BEAUTIFUL BALLROOMS FOR UP TO ��� GUESTS, AN OUTDOOR GAZEBO OVERLOOKING STUNNING GARDENS, A�ARD �INNING CATERING SERVICES, ��� STYLISH GUESTROOMS AND AN IMPECCABLE STAFF THAT SEES TO YOUR EVERY NEED. CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS CATERING@FOURPOINTSLONDON.COM ������������ MARRIOTT.COM/YXUFP ���� �ELLINGTON ROAD SOUTH, LONDON, ON, N�E �M�

THREE BRIDGES EVENT CENTRE IN ST. JACOB'S 519-744-1555 weddings@bingemans.com www.bingemans.com

PHOTOS, this page courtesy of Bingemans

Located just minutes from downtown St. Jacobs on the picturesque Conestogo River, Three Bridges Event Centre offers beautiful indoor space and professionally landscaped grounds, making it the perfect setting to customize your wedding to your taste.

Three Bridges Event Centre features an extraordinary outdoor setting perfect for a wedding ceremony or cocktail hour including the beautiful waterfall and gazebo! Also, provides a comfortable patio setting during cocktail hour or anytime during the reception. The ideal setting for stunning outdoor photos!

CEREMONY & RECEPTION OPTIONS | INSIDE & OUTSIDE OPTIONS | ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES | ON-SITE CATERING FULL BAR SERVICE

sipimage.com

148 • The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

REVIVAL HOUSE IN STRATFORD 519-273-3424 weddings@revival.house www.revival.house

PHOTOS, this page: michaelsteingard.com/

STRATFORD’S

PREMIERE WEDDING SITE Elegance, heritage, and warmth await you. After all, it was a church. This beautiful venue is complimented by exquisite menus and drink lists. One perfect site for both ceremonies and receptions. Your memories will be better than a fairytale-they’ll be made of your story.

FROM 55-140 GUESTS | FULL BAR

SERVICE

|

ON-SITE

CATERING ONLY | ON-SITE WEDDING

COORDINATOR

|

ON-SITE SOMMELIER | OUTSIDE GARDEN TERRACE | CEREMONY &

RECEPTION

OPTIONS

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 149

DELTA HOTELS BY MARRIOTT GUELPH CONFERENCE CENTRE IN GUELPH

519-780-3700 kerrie.conlin@deltahotels.com www.marriott.com/ykfdg

‘PLAN THE EVENT OF YOUR LIFETIME’ with the Delta Guelph Hotel and Conference Centre and our seasoned Event Planners.

We are pleased to offer Guelph’s premier, Full-Service, Four-Star Hotel, boasting 13,000 square feet of prime event space and 148 guestrooms and suites.

You and your guests will feel confident knowing the Delta Guelph Hotel and Conference Centre Team is committed to providing a flawless experience. We are excited at the opportunity to host your special day of celebration with family and friends.

20-300 GUESTS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING | ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES | LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS

PHOTO: johnbilodeau.com PHOTO: evandion.com

PHOTO:gary-evans.ca

Devon C Photography

PHOTO:gary-evans.ca

PHOTO: one2onephotography.ca

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 151

FANSHAWE PIONEER VILLAGE IN LONDON

PHOTOS, this page: rawfootagephotos.com

519-457-1296 Ext. 813 rentals@fanshawepioneervillage.ca www.fanshawepioneervillage.ca

C E L E B R AT E Y O U R F U T U R E with a step back in time. Choose

a 19th century church or beautiful park with gazebo for your unique wedding ceremony, and heritage barn or expansive grounds for your reception. For a more modern facility with a view of the lake, we have our Trillium Gallery, the newest addition to our venues.

FANSHAWE INDOOR

PIONEER AND

VILLAGE

OUTDOOR

OFFERS CEREMONY

AND RECEPTION OPTIONS | UP TO 400 GUESTS | LAKESIDE CEREMONIES | NATURAL GREEN SPACE | MULTIPLE PHOTO LOCATIONS | HISTORIC, RUSTIC BARN FOR RECEPTIONS | GAZEBO

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 57

152 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

STECKLE HERITAGE FARM IN KITCHENER 519-744-1555 weddings@bingemans.com www.bingemans.com

PHOTOS, this page courtesy of Bingemans

Steckle Heritage Farm is a designated heritage property in the City of Kitchener dating back to 1833. From the original farm buildings, to trees, to antiques on site, many date back well over 100 years. It maintains the feeling of an old farm while having modern amenities. Its beauty combined with being a "Farm within the City" are part of what makes it so unique.

CEREMONY & RECEPTION OPTIONS | INSIDE & OUTSIDE OPTIONS | ONSITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

78 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 153

FOUR FATHERS BREWERY PHOTO:gary-evans.ca

PHOTO: kaitlinabeele.com

IN CAMBRIDGE 226-962-4195 michelleb@fourfathersbrewing.ca www.fourfathersbrewing.ca

A ONE OF A KIND SPACE FOR A ONE OF A KIND DAY! The Speed River and

beautiful Hespeler Village provide the perfect backdrop for a wedding in any season. Four Fathers Brewing is home to the IV Loft which boasts a 175 person capacity. The IV Loft has been transformed into a unique and trendsetting venue that can compliment any décor.

In addition to the Loft, Four Fathers will be adding an outdoor ceremony and reception space mid summer 2021.

PHOTO: mirrorformphoto.com

PHOTO: fourfathersbrewing.ca PHOTO: mirrorformphoto.com

20-500 GUESTS | CEREMONY AND RECEPTION OPTIONS | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE PHOTO: fourfathersbrewing.ca

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 155

HAUSER HALL IN HEIDELBERG cherylh@hauserstores.com www.hauserhall.com

PHOTO: hauserhall.com

GORGEOUS RESTORED 1800’S CHURCH | VAULTED CEILINGS |

BRIGHT

AIRY

CEREMONY

SPACE

|

LARGE

RECEPTION

SPACE WITH STONE FLOORS & FIREPLACE | STAINED GLASS

OF

K-W’S

FROM

ALL-TIME

ST.

JACOBS

FAVOURITE PHOTO: hauserhall.com

ONE

MINUTES

&

WATERLOO.

WEDDING

VENUES!

ORIGINALLY

1800’S

&

AN CHURCH,

HAUSER H A L L

PHOTO: hauserhall.com

WINDOWS,

offers two floors of beautiful décor and space for your and

dance. From front to back, the hall offers both natural and contemporary sunken lighting, cathedral ceilings, PHOTO: hauserhall.com

and 100 FOR

156 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

hardwood GUESTS

floors. |

IDEAL

CEREMONY,

DINNER & RECEPTION

PHOTO: anneedgarphoto.com

reception,

PHOTO: anneedgarphoto.com

ceremony,

WATERLOO REGION MUSEUM IN KITCHENER 519-744-1555 weddings@bingemans.com www.bingemans.com

PHOTO: simplyemilyphotography.com

The Waterloo Region Museum is one of the most picturesque and historically significant venues in the city. This beautiful and iconic venue is the ideal place to make any event special. Experience the unique ambiance of the Grand Foyer with its soaring walls of Ontario Limestone, repurposed 19th-century barn timbers and dramatic skylights. Choose from the Willow Green Gazebo or the Freeport Church for your ceremony.

ON-SITE

CATERING

|

FULL

BAR

SERVICE

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 157

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON KITCHENER

PHOTO: gary-evans.ca

519-893-1211 sudip.duttagupta@hilton.com

PHOTO: DoubleTree by Hilton Kitchener

www.dtkitchener.doubletreebyhilton.com

ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGES | CEREMONY & RECEPTION OPTIONS | OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING PHOTO: redsuitcasephotography.com

158 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca 78 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: redsuitcasephotography.com

PHOTO: DoubleTree by Hilton Kitchener

REIMAGINED

, the DoubleTree by Hilton Kitchener (located at 30 Fairway Road South) is a modern wedding destination! With a variety of elegant venue spaces, DoubleTree Kitchener offers professional on-site wedding planning, customized menus, on-site décor options, inclusive packages, preferred guest room rates, complimentary overnight accommodation for couples on their wedding nights with chef-inspired amenities, and much more!

ST. GEORGE BANQUET HALL IN WATERLOO 519-722-5003 gm@stgeorgehall.com www.stgeorgehall.com

PHOTO: hauserworks.com PHOTO: Tina Lazarevic Photography PHOTO: gary-evans.ca

ST. GEORGE HALL OFFERS A GREAT VENUE OPTION FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY. Whether you’re

PHOTO: Tina Lazarevic Photography

PHOTO: gary-evans.ca

PHOTO: decoratingdreams.ca

looking to celebrate your wedding indoors or out, St. George Banquet Hall can accommodate you and your wedding vision. With the ability to host a small intimate wedding of 30 people or a large celebration of 700 guests.

OUTDOOR GAZEBO CEREMONIES | INDOOR CEREMONIES | OUTDOOR TENT WEDDINGS | CASH BAR, HOST BAR, OPTION TO BRING YOUR OWN WINE | 2 MASTER EUROPEAN CHEFS TO CREATE YOUR DREAM MENU

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 159

THEMUSEUM

PHOTO: THEMUSEUM.ca

IN KITCHENER Located

in

the

heart

Kitchener

THEMUSEUM

VENUE

for

your

of is

Downtown a

UNIQUE

UNIQUE

NEEDS.

Break free of the stale banquet hall routine and

519-749-9387 Ext. 233 or 228

PHOTO: THEMUSEUM.ca

GroupSales@THEMUSEUM.ca www.THEMUSEUM.ca

have a wedding that allows you the creativity and flexibility you deserve. Whatever you can dream, we can create. THEMUSEUM has a

PHOTO: lynismael.com

beautiful open-concept design that offers the perfect mix of eclecticism and contemporary elegance.

CEREMONY

&

RECEPTION

OPTIONS UP TO 250+ GUESTS | FLEXIBLE BAR SERVICE | PREFERRED CATERING LIST | DEDICATED EVENT COORDINATOR

PHOTO: brianlimoyoweddings.com

PHOTO: brianlimoyoweddings.com

PHOTO: elfredadalby.com

160 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: elfredadalby.com

MARRIOTT ® TOWNEPLACE SUITES BRANTFORD & CONFERENCE CENTRE 519-720-2777 events@bawagroup.net www.marriottbrantford.com

PHOTOS, this page: marriott.com

BRANTFORD, ONTARIO'S NEWEST AND LARGEST HOTEL The Marriott® Townplace

Suites Brantford & Conference Centre is the perfect venue for your special day. From intimate gatherings to large celebrations, offering 10,000 sq feet of modern and elegant space with 24ft ceilings, chandeliers, state of the art audio visual and sound experience, executive chef, and a dedicated onsite event coordinator. A 2000 square foot pre-function area is the perfect place to host your guests for a cocktail reception in between the ceremony and reception.

50 TO 550 GUESTS | ALL INCLUSIVE RECEPTION PACKAGES | OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS | ON-SITE CATERING | FULL BAR SERVICE

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 161

WHISTLE BEAR GOLF CLUB IN CAMBRIDGE 519-650-2327 info@whistlebear.ca www.whistlebear.ca

PHOTO: anneedgarphoto.com

A breathtaking landscape, with a New Hampshire style clubhouse, contemporary seasonal menus, WHISTLE BEAR GOLF CLUB will look after your individual needs from start to finish with all-inclusive packages that combine everything you could possibly dream of for an enchanting wedding day. Each event space offers a stunning outdoor terrace, surrounded by smooth green lawns, gently rolling hills, blue sky above you and an "away from it all" atmosphere that fuses the relaxed and comfortable with something grand. The charming open-aired Garden Chapel features manicured gardens encasing your aisle entrance while the natural landscape of Whistle Bear's golf course provides the perfect backdrop. A retractable peaked roof provides complete protection from the weather. UP TO 400 GUESTS | YEAR-ROUND CEREMONY OPTIONS | 3 PRIVATE EVENT SPACES WITH OUTDOOR TERRACES | PERSONAL MAITRE'D & CONCIERGE | DAY OF PAMPERING AND SERVICE | FULL BAR SERVICE | ON-SITE CATERING ONLY PHOTO: anneedgarphoto.com

PHOTO: cloud9photo.ca

PHOTO: cloud9photo.ca

PHOTO: cloud9photo.ca

PHOTO: taylorjacksonphoto.com

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS BEGIN! • 57

162 •The Wedding Ring Magazine | www.theweddingring.ca

WHERE FABULOUS LOCAL WEDDINGS

begin

VENDOR REVIEWS, REAL WEDDING STORIES, DESIGN

theweddingring.ca

PHOTO: anneedgarphoto.com

INSPIRATION, GOWN GALLERIES, PLANNING TIPS & MUCH MORE