Posted by: yvrtoolz | November 8, 2009

Wedding Dresses 2010

Alvina Valenta Bridal Gowns: Style AV9950

http://www.jlmcouture.com/assets/AlvinaValenta/br/large/9950.jpg

 

A new year will soon be upon us and with that new year we will expect to see some changes in the wedding world.  Recently at New York’s fashion week, designers unleashed their plans for 2010 wedding dresses.  With lots of drama and romantic flair, 2010 wedding dresses will not disappoint brides to be.

Weddings in general, don’t see many drastic changes from year to year.  However, with every passing season, we herald in small changes that make each wedding season unique.  What will make its mark as an undeniable characteristic of a 2010 wedding dress?  Here are a few examples that tore up the runways in New York this fall:

  • Crystal – crystal beading has returned to adorn the plain skirts and bodices of the last few seasons making this years dresses a little more ornate and interesting to look at.

3571

http://www.sinceritybridal.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/8a02aedcaf38ad3a98187ab0a1dede95/3/5/3571_sin_sp_s_c_f_68.jpg

  • Gathering or Folding – again a reversal from the plain skirts we’ve grown accustomed to, designers have added gathering, folding or pleating to this year’s dresses giving the dress itself structure, texture and interest. 

 2347

http://www.edenbridals.com/images/2347_m.jpg

  • Ruffles – this old favourite has returned with a vengeance this year adorning hemlines, bodices, skirts, and even veils!

2361

http://www.edenbridals.com/images/2361_m.jpg

Jim Hjelm Bridal Gowns: Style jh8000

http://www.jlmcouture.com/assets/JimHjelm/br/large/8000.jpg

  • Taffeta and Satin on full ball gowns  - full heavy fabrics return to replace the lighter chiffon and organza fabrics we’ve been seeing so much of lately, although the lighter fabrics will remain popular in order to have the oh so hot ruffling on many dresses.  Keep a look out for taffeta and statin in dresses in a full ball gown style.  This is an extremely dramatic and very hot look for 2010! 

 

http://www.alfredsungbridals.com/styleimages/5213Flrg.jpg

  • Asymmetry – nothing new here, since asymmetrical dresses and one shoulder styles in particular have been hot for one season already; however, designers this year, have taken the trend one step further by adding to all aspects of the dress, including the skirt which, in many cases, is made of intentionally torn fabric that is reorganized to create the look of the dress.

http://www.jlmcouture.com/assets/JimHjelm/br/large/8906.jpg

Whatever your fashion style is, traditional or modern, you will not be at a loss in 2010 for a style that suits your taste to a “t”.  Along with all these new twists, designers have elaborated on old favourites, giving brides options of all sorts to choose from.  It’s a good time to be a bride….enjoy!

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Posted by: yvrtoolz | November 3, 2009

Wedding First Dance Songs

http://www.klaircristiani.com/images/content_015.jpg

 

When you think about a wedding, what is the moment during the day you enjoy the most.  Is it the walk down the aisle, the i do’s, the bouquet toss?  Every person has their own personal favourite.  However, in general, most people would agree that the most special moment of the entire day is the moment the bride and groom take to the dance floor for the first dance.

It is the first dance that really gives the guests a look into the couple itself.  Their love, their life, their commitment is apparent during these few precious minutes.  We, as guests, are instantly taken into a private moment shared by two people who have chosen to publicly declare to the world that they are forever one.

For the bride and groom, the first dance represents the moment during the wedding day when they can finally relax and enjoy the festivities they are about to embark on.  Plus, it is finally a second to spend by themselves, if you will, during a day when all eyes and attention is on them.  It is an instant to speak privately with each other and to enjoy the fact that their commitment has now officially been confirmed.

The first dance is the turning point between the day’s serious and official aspect and the celebration.  It sets a tone, a mood and marks the beginning of the party!  With so much riding on it, how do you pick the right first song to dance to?

Even though the first song is such an important decision, there really is no right or wrong.  It really is only about the two of you and you should pick a song that reflects your relationship.  Maybe you already have a favourite song?  Maybe the song you first danced to became “your song” and you continue to enjoy it every time you hear it?  Maybe there is one song in particular that really outlines what the two of you are all about as a couple? 

You and your spouse are really the only two people who can truly say what piece of music evokes  heartfelt emotion in both of you.   If, however, you are at a complete loss and can’t think of what you should dance to on your wedding day, fret not! 

Wedding experts always love to add their two bits about what songs make the perfect ones for wedding first dances and there are no better experts than the ones playing the music.  Ask your DJ what the top wedding songs in Canada are and take some time to listen to them with your partner.  If any of those speak to you, then you have found your match.

One rule of thumb: don’t listen to your chosen song too much leading up to the wedding.  You want to keep it fresh and exciting so that when you do actually hit the dance floor, it will inspire and move you as much as it did when you first heard it.  Enjoy!

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Posted by: Tim M Howard | September 18, 2009

Winter Honeymoon in Africa

Africa is one of the most beautiful place sin the world to spend a Winter Honeymoon. An African Safari Honeymoon will take you through the continent’s stunning scenery and bring you up close and personal with the unique wildlife that inhabits Africa.

In South Africa, consider visiting Cape Town and the Cape of Good Hope. This is where your honeymoon in Africa will probably start. Also, the Kruger National Park is a must-see for Honeymooners.

African Safari honeymoon

African Safari honeymoon

Other Great Honeymoon Attractions In South Africa:

Greater St Lucia Wetland Park
Garden Route

In Zambia you’ll discover amazing wildlife and big game animals in the parks and national reserves. There are also many romantic spots to camp or live temporarily in local villages. Zambia is also home to the Victoria Falls, A natural wonder of the world and one of the perfect African Honeymoon sights.

African Safari honeymoon

African Safari honeymoon

Other Great Honeymoon Attractions In Zambia

Lower Zambezi National Park
Luangwa National Park
Zambezi River

Botswana

For many years Botswana has been one of Africa’s least known honeymoon destinations, but in recent years increasing numbers of tourists have been discovering the rich natural beauty of the area. some of the Best sights for you to check out on your African Honeymoon include:

Kalahari Desert
Okavango Delta,

African Safari Honeymoon

African Safari Honeymoon

The Best Time To Go

South Africa: As a rule, the weather is good or excellent countrywide, year round, however Fall and Winter months are the best for safaris.
Botswana: Dry season is from May to December – so.. the Fall
Zambia: Game viewing is best during the dry season from May through to October.
This link has some great weather advice also

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Posted in After the Wedding, Uncategorized | Tags: , , ,

Posted by: Kori Ellis | September 18, 2009

Best Wedding Processional Ever

Your wedding processional is the time when the bridal party comes into the church or wedding ceremony site. It’s often the most anticipated time of the wedding with the groom waiting at the altar and everyone wanting to see the gorgeous bride in her beautiful dress.

There are many different types of processionals. Generally the officiant along with the groom and best man enter from a side door and wait at the altar. Then, the groomsman and bridemaids walk in pairs down the aisle with the best man and maid of honor being the last pair. If you have a ring bearer or flower girl, they can come next (in some weddings they are before the bridesmaids/groomsmen). And then finally the bride and her escort (often her father) walk down the aisle.

This is very traditional, but many couples improvise. A couple married at Christ Lutheran Church in St. Paul, Minnesota have turned into wedding video celebrities due to their unique processional.

Jill Peterson and Kevin Heinz wowed their wedding guests June 20, 2009 when they (along with their seven bridesmaids, five groomsmen and four ushers) danced down the aisle to “Forever.”

The YouTube video was posted on July 19, 2009 and it has received over 6,000,000 page views, 32,911 ratings and 31,840 comments. I have to say, it’s actually the best wedding processional ever! Hands down.

Enjoy the video:

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Posted by: Kori Ellis | September 16, 2009

DIY Wedding Tips

Many couples are cutting back on the professional vendors to save money on their wedding. DIY weddings allow the bride, groom, their family and friends to pitch in and do much of the work that they would normal have to pay outside services. You can certainly make your own wedding favors and arrange your own flowers, but there are also many other DIY wedding tips and tricks.

Image: istockphoto

Image: istockphoto

Call on talented friends. Ask a friend or relative to make your wedding cake or take your photographs in lieu of a gift. You can still provide them with the supplies or offer a token payment if you like.

Buy liquor in bulk. Head to the largest liquor store or supplier in your area. Tell them it’s for your wedding (they might give you a break!). Buy wine and hard alcohol by the case. Consider kegs of beer for additional savings.

Go wholesale. Purchase food and beverages, along with disposable napkins, cups, etc from a wholesale restaurant supply company. Believe it or not, many of them are open to the public and you can get a big discount compared to retail.

Be thrifty. Don’t think everything has to match. You can find beautiful vases (and other goods) at thrift shops and dollar stores. You don’t need 16 of the exact same vase. Just choose the same type of material or color family.

Get sponsored. Sponsored weddings sound tacky but they don’t have to be. You don’t need a big sign over the reception door saying, “Sponsored by Sam’s Crab Shack” but you’d be surprised at the donated food, beverages, napkins, matchbooks, decorations and other items you can get for a little signage. For example, you can get a local bakery to bake/decorate your wedding cake for free in exchange for their sign and business cards on the cake table.

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Posted by: Tim M Howard | September 10, 2009

Honeymoons for Canadians: Fiji in winter

If you’ve planned a gorgeous winter wedding in Canada you might be looking to escape the cold and enjoy the tropical heat on your not-so winter honeymoon. Fiji is a great option for honeymooners! The Fijian islands are one of the World’s most romantic honeymoon destinations.

Fiji Honeymoon

The area has a rich culture and a warm inviting atmosphere. The locals are friendly and welcoming. Everything is here for you to enjoy a tropical honeymoon in paradise. Some of the many activities that you can partake in during your honeymoon in Fiji include; fishing, snorkeling, sailing and just relaxing on the sand with your partner. There are many caves and treks if you’re keen to get out and adventure!

romantic honeymoon destination

Also, the resorts that Fiji has to offer are spectacular. Speak to a reputable travel agent about the best way to book. And don’t just settle for the regular modes of transport to and from the islands. Consider taking a Jetplane ride from one of the neighbouring islands. Or better yet, speak to a captain and jump aboard a merchant ship for the journey over.

fiji honeymoon activities

Winter is the best time to go because the islands have the clearest waters at this time of year. Be sure to take plenty of lotion and don’t get too sunburnt! There is no faster way to ruin a honeymoon in the tropics than by over-tanning…

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Posted by: Kori Ellis | September 8, 2009

Fall Wedding Flowers and Plants

Are you planning your wedding for fall? It’s a beautiful time of the year with the leaves changing and the weather cooling down. Whether you are having your wedding indoors or outdoors, incorporate fall wedding flowers and plants into your decor.

Image: Kniphofia (Red Hot Poker) -- sxc.hu

Image: Kniphofia (Red Hot Poker) -- sxc.hu

For centerpieces, consider Kniphofia. Also known as “red hot pokers” these gorgeous flowers are fantastic for fall centerpieces. Featuring brilliant reds and yellows, these flowers will definitely liven up your wedding reception tables.

Hydrangeas are popular in summer weddings, but they are also a great choice in fall. These large flowers range in color from blue to pink. The more acidic the soil is, the closer to pink the color will be. You can also get hydrangeas dyed if they are not the exact color that you are looking for.

If you want an inexpensive flower for your fall wedding, consider Chrysanthemums (known as mums). These come in all sizes and colors. They are a durable flower that can be used in bouquets as well as centerpieces.

Other flowers to consider include asters, gerbera daises, marigolds, sunglowers and zinnias. To add a little texture to your centerpieces, include some fall plants and fruits such as crab apples, gourds, holly or even dry grasses like wheat.

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Posted by: willblog4brides | September 3, 2009

Canada Loves Cupcakes!

Good things come in pretty little packages…!

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If you’re considering cupcakes for your wedding cake, we probably don’t have to tell you why people love these dainty, delicious treats!

Generous dollops of frosting, sweet smatterings of sprinkles, and did we mention how pretty they are? If you think you can handle the competition, check out these sweet samples from Montreal’s own, Sugar Rush Cakes.

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Posted by: Kori Ellis | September 2, 2009

Host Your Wedding at a Vancouver Museum

If you are looking for an interesting location for your Vancouver wedding, consider a museum. Museums often have room rentals available for weddings, parties and other events. Many offer indoor/outdoor venues where you can enjoy the museum’s grounds for your reception.

Image: Vancouver Maritime Museum

Image: Vancouver Maritime Museum

In Vancouver, you can find a variety of museums available for your wedding.

Vancouver Maritime Museum
Their meeting rooms, gallery spaces and outside terrace are available for rent. Guests can even explore the historic vessel during your event. They have room for 150 standing guests (cocktail style) or 75 people for a formal sit down dinner.

Museum of Vancouver
Museum of Vancouver has a beautiful space available for weddings. The Joyce Walley Learning Centre features 13 foot floor-to-ceiling windows that offer a view of of Vanier Park, English Bay, Coast Mountains, West End, Downtown and Stanley Park. The location can accommodate 200 standing guests or 90 for seated dining.

Roedde House Museum
Roedde House Museum is located in Barclay Heritage Square. This late-Victorian home is a beautiful location for small weddings and receptions. The grounds and gardens surrounding the Roedde House make it a fabulous choice. The facilities are suited for 45 people or less.

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Posted by: Kori Ellis | August 31, 2009

Wedding Decorations: Chair Covers

Most times when you rent a venue for your wedding reception, the tables and chairs themselves are included in the price. But oftentimes, the linens are not. Therefore, you not only need table linens but also chair covers to match your decor.

Image: istockphoto

Image: istockphoto

If you are looking for chair cover rentals, in Vancouver or elsewhere in Canada, ask the venue for a recommendation. They could have a vendor that their brides normally work with. However, don’t expect pretty chair covers to come cheap. The hall and other services usually rent chair covers for $4 and up per chair.

If chair covers aren’t an expense that you accounted for in your wedding budget, there are alternatives to renting chair covers. Here are a couple ideas:

Decorated Pillow Cases
Believe it or not, pillow case make good chair covers. If you can purchase them in bulk or from thift shops, you can decorate them with stencils or paints and then slip them over the chairs.

Chair Bows
Head to your local craft shop or dollar store and buy a bunch of tulle. You can make big tulle bows for under a $1 each and then tie them around the chair. If they are big enough, they will cover even the ugliest chair backs. Check out these directions for making your own chairback decorations.

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Posted in Ceremony & Reception, DIY & Budget, Style & Décor | Tags: , ,

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