The Planning Guide |
WEDDING TRENDS
6 MICRO-MATRIMONY
Tips on weddings where less can mean more
FLORAL DECOR
8 GARDEN DELIGHTS
Two takes on decorating with flowers, indoors and out
REAL WEDDINGS
12 TIMELESS ELEGANCE
Channelling a classic and timeless design, with a touch of whimsy
16 LOVE IN BLOOM
How flowers played an essential role in this August wedding
INSPIRATION
22 APHRODITE’S EMBRACE
How to create your own Grecian wedding dream, anywhere
26 ARTFUL PURSUITS
Think the drama of an art gallery as a backdrop for your big day
PLANNING : THE MUSIC
28 I DO, I DO, I DO, I DO
Selecting the Soundtrack of your ceremony
PLANNING : DOG-FRIENDLY WEDDING
30 PUPPY LOVE
What to Ask Your Wedding Venue About Including Your Pup
DESTINATIONWE DDINGS & HONEYMOON TRAVEL
32 ASK THE EXPERT
We go on location with two romance specialists
SALES MANAGER
Jennifer Gigis jen@todaysbride.ca
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MICRO- MATRIMONY
Tips from two hotel wedding planners on weddings where less can mean more
Amicro-wedding is defined as a small intimate affair, with a maximum of 50 guests. “Several factors have contributed to the rise of the microwedding trend, says Melissa Parent, sales manager for weddings at Quebec’s fairytale cabin, Fairmont Le Château Montebello. “Since the pandemic, we have observed a noticeable shift at Fairmont Montebello, with a reduction in average guest counts.”
Her colleague, Lauren McColl, regional sales manager for Fairmont Hotels & Resorts + Rim Rock Resort Hotel, Canada's Western Mountain Collection, agrees. “The wedding industry has seen a surge in micro-weddings off the back of the pandemic.” Couples, she adds, have more wiggle room with their budgets, as well.
What do you think prompted the micro-wedding trend?
MELISSA PARENT: Approximately 32 per cent (19 of the 60) of our 2024 weddings were microweddings. One key driver seems to be cost. With inflation at its peak, couples are becoming more budgetconscious and are opting for smaller, more intimate celebrations with close family and friends. Rather than inviting a large number of guests and compromising on aspects of the event, many prefer to reduce the guest list and invest in higher-end inclusions or premium selections.
LAUREN MCCOLL: Couples discovered the freedom to allocate their budgets towards multi-day celebrations, elevated culinary experiences and bespoke décor and entertainment. Maybe while your guests are enjoying cocktail hour, you hop in a helicopter, land on top of a glacier and pop a bottle of champagne!
Speaking of budget, how do you set a budget for a micro-wedding?
LM: Define your “Must-Haves.” List your top 3-5 priorities, this will help provide you with a clear focus. When accommodating out-of-town guests, consider securing a block of rooms at a hotel. Hotels frequently offer tiered discounts for group bookings, meaning the more rooms you reserve, the lower the per-room rate becomes. This allows you to provide your guests with convenient and potentially cost-effective lodging,
while also benefiting from a bulk savings opportunity.
MP: Certain wedding expenses remain fixed regardless of guest count, such as the photographer, DJ, wedding dress and wedding planning services. The most effective way to reduce costs is by cutting down on the number of guests. On average, it costs upwards of $300 per person to attend a wedding, making this a key area for budgetconscious couples. Fewer guests also mean fewer tables, which in turn reduces the need for décor rentals, centrepieces and floral arrangements.
How does a couple start planning a micro-wedding?
MP: The best way to begin planning a micro-wedding is by first creating your guest list. Once you have a clear idea of how many people you'll be inviting, the next step is to find a venue. Be mindful that some wedding locations have minimum guest counts or minimum food and beverage spend requirements, so it's important to choose a venue that can accommodate a smaller guest list without incurring additional costs. Next, consider the vision for your event. Do you want to keep things intimate and celebrate at a local restaurant? Or are you dreaming of a destination wedding, whether it's a tropical getaway or a resort just a few hours away? Many couples also choose venues with personal significance – such as a place where they shared their first trip together, a childhood vacation spot, or the location where the proposal took place. The key is to select a setting
that feels meaningful and aligns with the intimacy of a micro-wedding.
LM: Begin with a solid budget, select your dream location, then immediately partner with a wedding planner. Choosing a planner after securing your venue, particularly for destination weddings, ensures you benefit from their local knowledge and support throughout the entire planning journey.
Any advice on how to choose the people on your list without offending others?
LM: This celebration is fundamentally about you and your partner. Don't hesitate to communicate your intimate vision and be transparent about any guest list limitations. If your relationship with someone isn't frequent or close, an invitation isn't obligatory. Those who truly care will understand and support your choice.
MP: Start by identifying the people who truly matter to you – those you can't imagine celebrating your special day without. Once you've narrowed down your core group, consider limiting the number of children invited. If your venue is a hotel or resort, offering babysitting services can be a great solution for guests who don't have alternative childcare options. Another effective strategy is to restrict 'plus ones' and avoid inviting people you haven't connected with in the past year or two, helping to trim your guest list.
chateau-montebello.com rimrockresort.com; fairmont.com
GARDEN DELIGHTS
TWO TAKES ON DECORATING WITH FLOWERS, INDOORS AND OUT
Photography, Concept & Planning: Antonina Klein | Photography: Inka Taurus Photography Event Planner, Coordinator & Collaborator: The Memory Vine | Venue: Studio 05 | Florals: Maya Tsur Floral Design | Gown: Rue de Seine, Loversland Groom’s Suits, Shoes & Accessories : Andrews Formals | Hair & Makeup: Angie Di Battista | Accessories: Luna + Stone; AVLIS Jewelry Cake & Desserts: dearDeer Baking and Pastry Lab | Stationery: Paper Palette | Candles: Bare & Co a | Tableware, linens & glassware: NAYOS Furniture: Higgins Event Rentals | Models: Jessica and Zach, both @dulcedomodels
oINDOORS
An intimate and modern photo shoot in the heart of Toronto, complete with an intricately embroidered ceremony gown and warm accent hues.
This editorial shoot, captured by Antonina Klein and Inka Taurus Photography and organized in collaboration with luxury event planner Paula Holt of The Memory Vine, seamlessly blends modern elegance with warm accent hues to craft an unforgettable event for a contemporary couple. Situated in Toronto’s vibrant Junction neighbourhood, Studio 05, a unique sunlit studio with custom fixtures, skylights, and modern design elements, provided the perfect backdrop for the occasion.
The bride wore Rue de Seine’s Cora gown, adorned with delicately embroidered colorful floral designs, from Loversland, a bridal boutique specializing in effortlessly chic modern silhouettes. To complement the bride’s warmtoned ceremony ensemble, the groom wore a cappuccinocolored suit from Andrew’s Formals.
Maya Tsur Floral Design and Bare & Co. collaborated masterfully to curate the florals and candles for the ceremony and reception, creating a cohesive and bespoke design. Maya Tsur’s asymmetrical floral arrangements provided a luxurious backdrop for the ceremony, perfectly complementing the bride’s embroidered dress. Bare & Co.’s candles set the mood with warm lighting for the event.
The tableware from NAYOS featured clean lines, ribbed glassware, brass silverware, and smooth finishes, aligning with the editorial’s warm yet minimal colour palette. NAYOS’s handblown ribbed, floral champagne coupes added a unique element to the reception’s tablescape and the couple’s champagne toast. Paper Palette artfully crafted the stationery for the event, allowing for stunning flat lays and providing the finishing touch to the tablescape.
Concluding the celebration was the cake and desserts by dearDeer Baking and Pastry Lab. dearDeer decorated the cake with textured and colorful decorations that added a distinctive element to the dessert. Adding to the charm, dearDeer crafted edible glass grapes, a delightful and unique detail for the event.
OUTDOORS
The soft, romantic peach and green colour palette was woven throughout the design, from the delicate floral arrangements to the elegantly styled tablescape.
This shoot, which Rachel Baskin, the owner of Reginabased Baskin Creative Co., a boutique, fine art wedding and portrait photography studio, has coined “You Are Perfect for Me,” is a celebration of romance, artistry and collaboration. Set in the beautiful hotel courtyard of The Sandman Hotel & Suites in Regina, with its manicured lawns, lush greenery and beautifully landscaped flower gardens, every element was carefully curated to inspire modern couples who dream of a refined, elegant, and naturally romantic wedding.
The floral concept was built around the idea of soft garden romance with a refined, modern edge. The floral design was expertly put together by Candace of Rose And Vines Florals, and she masterfully captured that air of soft romance and natural elegance in her design. We used a curated palette of blush, peach, soft apricot, creamy whites and whispery greens to evoke a sense of timeless beauty and feminine allure and grace while maintaining a fresh yet refined and editorial feel. The arrangements featured a delicate blend of classically beautiful and elegant, lush and full of movement, overflowing with breath-taking premium blooms including:
Ƌ Caramel and Peach “Apple” Carnations
Ƌ White Dahlias and Delphiniums
Ƌ Peach and Butterfly Ranunculus
Ƌ Phoenix, Spray and Charity Roses
Ƌ Gambia – to add some texture and visual appeal
Ƌ Seeded and Silver Dollar Eucalyptus
Ƌ Ruscus Italy – to add to the lush greenery of the floral arrangements
When it came to the centrepiece, our goal was to create an immersive design that felt lush, layered and effortlessly elegant. The floral runner ran uninterrupted for the full length of the table, almost like a floral meadow rising from the linen-draped table. We complemented the florals with soft ivory twisted tapered candles in glass vessels woven throughout to add height, dimension, and a romantic glow that would transition beautifully from day to dusk. Every arrangement was created to feel intentional yet freeform –luxurious, but never stiff. We wanted the overall feel to be airy and organic – designed to mimic the natural beauty of an outdoor setting while still feeling elevated and editorial. It was the perfect balance of romance and sophistication.
1Photography: Baskin Creative Co. | Venue: Sandman Hotel & Suites Regina Florals: Rose And Vines Florals | Decor: A1 Rent-Alls The Party Store
Stationery: Palm & Lotus | Cake: Queen City Cakes | Wardrobe: NWL
Dresses (gown); Avoir Shoes, Bella Belle (footwear); Joanna Bisley Designs (jewelry); Victoria Jewellers (rings) | Hair: Quinn Foster Hair
Makeup: Face By Meagan | Model: Edge Agency
TIMELESS ELEGANCE
Olivia & Brett
Channelling a classic and timeless design, with a touch of whimsy
Nestled in the Fraser Valley, surrounded by mountains and rolling hills, with large maple trees offering the perfect sun cover, is Mt Lehman Winery. It was here where Brett and Olivia exchanged “I do’s.” Channelling a classic and timeless design, with a touch of whimsy, this wedding celebration was nothing short of perfect, says wedding planner Molly Clayton, lead wedding planner at Planning by Molly. Here, she gives us the inside story.
The bride and groom were intentional with their design – thoughtfully incorporating plush seating around the dance floor, an upscale golf cart for assisting with mobility and offering passed appetizers to their guests. Signature cocktails, lush florals, cannoli desert and a black-and-white dance floor added a touch of glamour to the evening.
The tidewater tent and furniture offered a clean and crisp design that was embellished with baby’s breath garlands and individual table settings. The decor was timeless and classic. White florals, black accents, name cards, custom signage and elegant glassware.
Personal touches included homemade Italian wine, personalized vows, sentimental songs for the first dances and the groom’s one-year-old nephew as the ring-bearer. As the bride and groom waltzed to “Harvest Moon” by Neil Young, many guests were left misty eyed.
Photography: Kiana Bryn photography
Venue: Mount Lehman Winery
Planning: Planning by Molly
Rentals: Rose James Rental & Confetti rentals
Florists: Bulk Bunches & Fairfield farms
Catering: Restaurant 62
Dessert: Cannoli King
Hair & Makeup: Cierra Raichelle Makeup
HAVIE & KURTIS
Love in BLOOM
Growing up on a farm in Newfoundland, Havie knew from the start that flowers would play an essential role in her August 2024 wedding to Kurtis.
All the blooms and greenery used in the bouquets, boutonnieres and arrangements were grown by her father and stepmother, on the farm where her grandfather first started their flower business. This ensured that her grandfather, who passed away in 2017, was remembered and honoured, adding a sentimental touch to a day that infused fun and tradition at every turn.
LOCAL CHARMS
After exchanging vows at St. John of the Evangelist Heritage Church in Topsail, the couple and their 110 guests celebrated at the Royal Newfoundland Yacht Club in Conception Bay South, dining on fish and chips served the traditional way – with dressing and gravy – and dancing to a mix of Newfoundland and classic music.
FAMILY & FRIENDS
Havie looked stunning in her mother’s wedding dress, which save for a few minor alterations, was kept in its original form. The wedding cake, made by Havie’s childhood best friend, was cut and put away, only to be shared and served the following day at brunch with the couple’s closest friends and family.
KISS AND TELL!
As per local tradition, all out-of-town guests were ‘screeched in,’ which involved drinking a shot of screech (rum) and kissing a cod on the mouth. Pucker up!
CORRECTION: This real wedding originally appeared in Today’s Bride’s Spring/Summer 2025 issue, in which it was incorrectly stated that Havie’s father had passed away in 2017 when, in fact, it was her grandfather. We regret the error.
Photography: Amy
Donnavan Photography
Flowers: Nagels hill
agri-products
Flower arrangements: Newfoundland
Floral Design
Venue & Catering: Royal
Newfoundland Yacht Club
Suits: Indochino
Bridesmaids
Dresses: Azazie
Hair: Alchemy Hair Studio
Makeup: The Hair Factory
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Up to five dazzling pairs of Jewel Badgley Mischka shoes, ensuring your entire bridal party steps out in style.
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Elegant Jewel Badgley Mischka handbags for the bride and each of her bridesmaids, adding a touch of glamour to every ensemble.
For the Flower Girls
Adorable and comfortable shoes, making their journey down the aisle even more delightful.
Bonus Prize
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Terms and Conditions: *No purchase necessary. The contest begins at 1:00 PM EST April 15, 2025, and ends at 11:59 PM EST July 15, 2025. The decisions of the judges are final and not subject to appeal. Winner must be a legal resident of Canada and must have reached the age of majority in their province of residence. Winner must not be an employee, a representative of Badgley Mischka and TheShoeShop.ca their subsidiaries and affiliates, media partners, advertising, and promotional agencies. One (1) winner will receive the Grand Prize. (3) winners will receive Additional Prizes .Winners will select styles available on TheShoeShop.ca at the time of the draw. Prizes will be awarded once all terms are met. Prizes will be awarded in a random drawing the week of July 21, 2025. Winners will be notified by email. If a potential winner cannot be contacted and does not respond within 5 days from the date the sponsor first tries to notify them, and or the prize or prize notification is returned as undeliverable, such potential winner forfeits all rights to win the prize or receive the prize and an alternate potential winner will be selected. TheShoeShop.ca and Today’s Bride collect personal information to administer the contest. By entering, you agree to receive future communications but may unsubscribe at any time.The number of eligible entries received will determine the odds of winning.
Dreaming of a Greek-Island affair, but a destination wedding isn’t in the cards? HERE, HOW TO CREATE YOUR OWN GRECIAN WEDDING DREAM FROM AN EXPERT PLANNER
APHRODITE’S EMBRACE
This moment melds the timeless elegance of ancient Greece with vibrant, contemporary romance, says Danielle Andrews, president of The Wedding Planners Institute of Canada, about this Grecian-inspired wedding concept that she and her team designed. The outdoor ceremony is framed by classical statues and pillars, she notes, adorned with lush vines and a breathtaking array of blue, soft yellow, ivory and
CLASSICAL BEAUTY WITH MODERN TOUCHES
pink flowers, creating a mythological garden setting. Inside, the reception features long tables dressed in exquisite linens and stunning centerpieces, seamlessly continuing the theme of divine elegance. “We blend classical beauty with modern touches,” says Andrews, “demonstrating versatility and mastery in creating cohesive, enchanting environments that evoke both luxury and romance.”
Photography: Nichole Fan
Wedding Planner: The Wedding Planners
Event Designer: Danielle from The Wedding Planners Institute of Canada Inc.
Venue: The Arlington Estate
Day-of Coordinator: Kim Mayo, Poppin' Petals
Day-Of Coordinator: Sierra Sunkel, The Wedding Planners
Décor and Design: Infinitude Design
Flower Design: Fleur Weddings
Stationery: Royal Stationery Design
Officiant: My Wedding Officiant
Linens: The Linen Closet
Furniture Rentals: Detailz Couture
Waterwall: After the Falls Events
Cake: Fruitilicious Creations & Cakes
Dresses: Rent the Couture
Tuxedo: Andrew’s Formals
Hair: Colour Central
Makeup: L'une Beauty Boutique
Models: Makayla Gunn and Alex Dirado
The Inspiration
“It was all about the dress!” The concept was first sparked when Andrews saw the stunning Floria yellow floral gown at Rent the Couture, she says. “It evoked thoughts of divine beauty and natural elegance. The ethereal hues and flowing design of the gown perfectly mirrored the charm of a Grecian garden.”
The Colours
“The colour palette we used for this shoot included muted yellows, blues, greens and pinks,” she says. These were all brought out of the inspiration wedding dress and the gardens of Greece.
The Venue
The Arlington Estate is set on a beautifully landscaped greenspace with a pond and fountain serving as a centrepiece. “We used the East Pavillion for our ceremony space and Infinitude Design came in and actually built a column structure on-site that morning.” For the reception, Andrews’ team dressed the modern East Wing inside the Estate and had cocktails at the venue’s beautiful West Wing bar.
The Design and The Details
“We carried the Grecian Garden theme inside and out,” says Andrews, from creating a custom garden complete with columns in the East Wing Wedding Pavillion, to inside the East Wing ballroom. “For the ballroom, we used a mixture of long rectangular and rounds tables in alternating textured blue linens.” The fabric charger plates on the round tables had the pattern from the linens on the long tables, and the chargers on the long tables were made from the fabric of the rounds. Each placesetting had a handmade rosemary-infused olive oil, as well as a green organza pouch of five sugared almonds. “The odd number represents the couple sharing everything and being undivided,” says Andrews. “These organza pouches each had an evil eye charm on them; each plate also had an olive branch with olives on it.” The tables were adorned with low, full floral arrangements and blue taper candles in various heights. “We also had a waterwall welcoming guests to the event.”
By far, Andrew’s favourite design element was the columns built for the ceremony. “They were wrapped in vines and florals and made such a dramatic statement,” she says, adding that Infinitude Designs perfectly colour-matched the pillars to the stone terrace. “If an architectural element doesn't exist at your venue, only your imagination is stopping you from having it built!”
BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED GREENSPACE
Artful Pursuits
Photographed at the Art Gallery of Hamilton, the setting was curated by Sue Gallo Designs and Alysha Douglas of Every Little Thing.
From the moment guests arrived, the team wanted them to be immersed in romance, says Douglas, and for the space to feel warm, romantically moody, elegant and timeless. “Our vision was to create a dreamy setting that was the epitome of sophistication, unique and unforgettable where every detail felt thoughtful and intimate,” says Douglas.
The guests were immersed in a glowing candlelit atmosphere and art in a setting that was both sophisticated and intimate. The focal point within the pavilion was a dramatic draped canopy, beneath which sat an elegant baby grand piano set aglow with the dreamiest of romantic candlelight from below.
The venue's iconic floor to ceiling windows acted as a continuous modern art installation as guests had a view of the galleries' sculpture garden. The beautifully set communal dining tables, in tones of warm mochas and elegant blacks, and the richly toned, lush floral arrangements, flickering candlelight and refined table top elements, elevated the dining experience. Personalized menus and favour boxes, signage and decorative elements added to the ambience of the evening.
Photography: Gemini Photography Planner/Event Management: Alysha Douglas, Planning Every Little Thing Florist/Event Design: Sue Gallo
Designs Venue: Art Gallery of Hamilton Hair and Makeup: Alyssa Helm
Beauty Wardrobe: Catherine Langlois
Bridal Accessories: Blair Nadeau
Bridal Rentals: Special Event Rentals Cakes/Sweets: Sweet Celebrations
Patisserie Stationery: Paper Palette Models: Kourtney @kourtneycaporrellakrawesky Denisa @denisacaporrellakrawesky
Selecting the Soundtrack of Your Ceremony
I DO, I DO, I DO, I DO, I DO
by
Revs. Jason and Michael, The Marry Men Wedding Officiants
THE PROCESSIONAL: At Last
The music you choose as the overture to your ceremony will frame the memories of your wedding day forever. Consider a timeless classical piece that speaks to tradition or a contemporary love song that mirrors your relationship. Whether it’s the song that was playing when you first met or a tune you both love to sing along to, personal connections will make the music even more memorable, so choose something that is going to hit all the right notes.
Going Solo?
Consider giving each key entrance its own distinct and dynamic soundtrack. A unique song can help the groom “get into the groove” and highlight his personality, while a different selection for the wedding party can add some pomp and circumstance. Finally, a bold or sentimental piece for the bride’s entrance will ensure that this breathtaking moment stands apart from all the rest. Thoughtfully curating these musical elections can create an emotional experience that will, as Madonna famously suggests, “make the people come together.”
THE RECESSIONAL: Signed, Sealed, Delivered
The music you select for your recessional doesn’t have to be a showstopper, but it should capture your excitement and add a burst of energy as the ceremony transitions into a celebration. Whether it’s a Broadway ballad, a Disney ditty, or a timeless classic, make sure the lyrics are meaningful for the moment and reflect the promises you just made. Upbeat pop songs, lively classical pieces, or something playful can provide a joyful chorus for the smiles, laughter and applause that will help you “shake, rattle and roll” your way down the aisle as newlyweds.
Music to Make You Feel My Love
Many couples like to include music for other personalized moments during the ceremony. Consider a soft acoustic piece to serenade the signing of the marriage license or a favourite melody to underscore a unity ritual or family tradition. The prelude might be serene, the processional reverent, the signing soft and reflective, and the recessional upbeat and joyous. Think of it as an emotional journey that starts from anticipation and culminates in celebration. If you’re hiring live musicians, discuss your vision with them and make sure they’re comfortable with your song choices. If you’re using recorded music, invest in quality sound equipment to ensure every note can be heard.
From the first note of the processional to the last beat of the recessional, every song you select should be a meaningful part of your wedding day. Let the rhythms move you up and down the aisle and let the music tell your story.
www.themarrymen.ca; @themarrymen
OUR PICKS
Here The Marry Men share their favourite song selections and “marry melodies” that can help turn up the volume on your vows.
• “Love Like This” by Lauren Daigle
• “Can’t Help Falling In Love” by Elvis Presley
• “Simply the Best” (cover by Billianne)
• “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole
• “Like the Sun” by RyanDan
There are some songs that, while beautiful, are past their prime or out of tune with the times.
Consider pushing pause on:
• “All of Me” by John Legend
• “Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel
• “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
Photography: The Marry Men - Jessica Baker Photography; The String Sisters - Tay Surette Photography
Planning Guide
PUPPY LOVE
WHAT TO ASK YOUR WEDDING VENUE ABOUT INCLUDING YOUR PUP
BY ASH MOORE
Planning a wedding with your dog by your side? You’re not alone! As more couples consider their pup a key part of their big day, the need for truly dog-friendly venues has never been greater. But here’s the thing – not all wedding venues are created equal, and not every venue that claims to be “dog-friendly” actually understands what that means.
This isn’t just a trend; it’s a movement toward celebrating love in a way that genuinely reflects your family (fur and all!). But before you book your dream venue, here are the essential questions to ask to ensure it’s the right fit for both you and your pup.
Can My Pup Walk Down the Aisle…Rain or Shine?
Not all venues allow dogs indoors, especially in ceremony spaces, and rules can change if the ceremony moves inside due to weather. Make sure to clarify where dogs are permitted and, most importantly, get this information in writing.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR: A truly dog-friendly venue welcomes dogs in the ceremony space and ensures they can be indoors if the weather turns. Some only allow dogs outside, so always confirm the backup plan.
Where’s the VIP (Very Important Pup) Lounge?
Weddings can be overwhelming, even for the most social dogs. A quiet, air-conditioned space like a bridal suite or private lounge gives your pup a much-needed break.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR: A venue with a designated area where your dog can rest away from the noise, ideally with a door that closes for privacy and safety.
Where’s the Best Spot for a Potty Break?
A scenic property is lovely, but where will your dog go when nature calls? Ask about designated relief areas and waste bin locations.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR: Venues with easily accessible grassy areas, clear waste disposal guidelines, and conveniently placed bins. If the venue is all stone or concrete, consider how that may impact potty breaks.
Aisle-Ready or Already Tired?
If your venue has a massive parking lot, consider how far your dog (and you!) will need to walk. Carrying a Golden Retriever that puts on the brakes while juggling wedding gear in heels is less than ideal.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR: A venue with parking close to the entrance or a designated drop-off area. If your dog has mobility needs, ask about accessible parking options while being mindful of guests with mobility concerns.
Are We Walking on Sunshine or Sliding into Chaos?
Hot asphalt, slippery stone, or muddy grass aren’t ideal for paws. Ask about shaded areas, water accessibility and footing conditions to prevent muddy paws from crossing over onto formal wear – yikes!
WHAT TO LOOK FOR: A mix of shade, grass and well-maintained walkways. Bonus points if the venue has water stations for quick hydration. Also, ask about any landscaping restrictions – most venues won’t want dogs on manicured areas.
Your wedding should be magical for everyone – including your dog! By choosing a truly dog-friendly venue, you’ll set the stage for a smooth, stress-free celebration. And if you want extra peace of mind (plus expert hands and extra treats), Black Dog Weddings has you covered!
Ash Moore is the owner, lead wedding dog attendant and director of belly rubs at Black Dog Weddings. He and his team specialize in making sure your dog is happy, comfortable and seamlessly included in your wedding day.
woof@blackdogweddings.com www.blackdogweddings.com
Photography (left and inset), Erin Blackwood Photography; Constantine Photography (right, couple and inset)
ASK THE EXPERT
When it comes to destination wedding and honeymoon planning, we went on location with two romance specialists
What is the first thing every couple should consider when planning a destination wedding?
First and foremost, every couple should focus on making their destination wedding a true reflection of their love. They should consider how every detail of their wedding, however big or small, can be tailored to their personality. For instance, instead of just a generic beach wedding, a couple who may have met while travelling might want to incorporate elements like a signature welcome drink or a Mento band playing their special song while walking down the aisle. Personal touches can add such sentimental layers to an already memorable day.
How does a couple set a budget? Do they decide first, or can they do this with the help of a destination wedding expert planner?
Setting a budget for a destination wedding can be overwhelming that’s for sure, as many couples just don’t know where to begin! That’s why consulting with a destination wedding planner can be incredibly helpful. At Sandals Resorts, our dedicated wedding planners guide couples through the process – from start to finish – helping them to understand costs, explore options, and truly make the most of their budget, whatever that may be.
One of the greatest advantages of choosing Sandals Resorts is the flexibility and value we offer with a variety of wedding packages available to suit every budget and guest count. Whether it’s an intimate elopement or a grand celebration
THE EXPERT
Marsha-Ann Donaldson
Corporate director, weddings & romance, Sandals Resorts International
with more than 50 guests, we ensure a seamless planning experience. Plus, we even have a complimentary wedding package, making it easier than ever to say “I do” in paradise.
What's trending now in destination weddings?
I think that destination wedding couples always have their family and friends top of mind, in order to curate a vacationlike experience for them, but we are seeing an even more hyper-focus on multi-day events. From additional on-resort activities (think beach bonfire party or pickleball tournament) to off-resort excursions exploring the Caribbean (maybe a private catamaran cruise or group trip to climb Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica) couples are focused on creating multi-day wedding experiences for their guests.
Having said that, we are also still seeing more intimate weddings, but there is no compromise on spending. Again, they are focused on opting for really meaningful experiences that prioritize quality time with loved ones. I do have a particular soft spot for the brand-new overwater chapel at Sandals Royal Bahamian, located in Nassau, Bahamas. It’s the largest one we have and nothing beats the blue waters of the Bahamas.
One thing we’ve noticed recently is that more couples are interested and enquiring about eco-conscious weddings. As a matter of fact, later this year, Sandals will be announcing a new sustainable wedding inspiration and we’re so excited to offer this to our guests. Stay tuned!
Overwater Villa, Sandals Resorts
THE EXPERT
Sandra Prieto Robles
Regional wedding manager of the Americas, Palladium Hotel Group
Favourite honeymoon destination?
For honeymoons, I absolutely love Jamaica and Costa Mujeres. These destinations are ideal to unwind after the excitement of a wedding! At our hotels in both destinations, couples can relax at Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness, a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa features an extensive hydrotherapy circuit, including invigorating hot and cold plunge pools, soothing saunas, steam rooms, and revitalizing sensation showers. Couples can also indulge in a range of luxurious treatments, from couples massages to revitalizing facials and body wraps, all designed to restore balance and well-being.
Do you always recommend the couple to honeymoon in the same place as their destination wedding?
Not necessarily. While some couples love the convenience of staying at the same location for both the wedding and honeymoon, I recommend exploring a different destination for the honeymoon. A change of scenery can provide a fresh start to married life and offer a more relaxing or adventurous experience depending on what the couple is looking for.
The one thing everyone forgets (except the expert destination wedding advisor)
One thing many couples overlook is the travel logistics for guests. It’s easy to get caught up in the wedding details, but ensuring that your guests have everything they need – like group rates for flights, accommodations, and transportation – can make a huge difference. An experienced advisor will help coordinate these details so your loved ones can enjoy the celebration without any travel stress.
This spread: Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts
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