Calgary's Best Wedding Blog

Because you can never get enough Royal Wedding!

2011-05-09T12:21:00.000-06:00

We were experiencing some technical difficulties with our blog last week and unfortunately were not able to bring you our recap of the Royal Wedding as soon as we would have liked. However we all know that you cannot get enough of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, so we are happy to give you one more piece of indulgence.

On Friday April 29^th, the world fell in love with a beautiful beginning. Not much of a surprise was the number of people who awoke bright eyed and bushy tailed at 4:00am to watch a prince and his beautiful bride become HRH and Duchess of Cambridge.

It was a stunning morning, and people flooded the Buckingham Palace grounds. Guests arrived well suited, and happy in outrageously beautiful hats. Prince William and his brother Harry clean up quite nicely in their royal suits, as did Kate’s maid of honor and sister Pippa in her fitted Alexander McQueen.

But of course we all waited for the blushing bride to show face. And it was worth the wait! Kate arrived in a vintage Rolls Royce in her gorgeous Lace Bodice Alexander McQueen gown, designed by Creative Director Sarah Burton. The elegant lace sleeves were entirely fitting of the venue, Westminster Abbey. Interestingly, Kate’s “Something old” is the lace appliqué, hand-made by the Royal School of Needlework. Even more stunning is the nearly eight-foot train which awed the guests. 58 buttons held Kate in this flawless gown, alongside a small blue ribbon, which served as Kate’s “Something Blue”. Kate’s veil was made of ivory silk tulle, with embroidered trim also done by the Royal School of Needlework.

As far as accessories go, this princess rocked the good stuff. Although Kate’s wedding band was quite simple, her sapphire engagement ring is anything but. And to boot, Princess Diana owned this beauty. Even more amazing is the Halo Tiara loaned to Kate by Queen Elizabeth II. This “something borrowed” was originally a gift from King George VI to Elizabeth on her 18^th birthday.

For Kate’s “something new”, she had a pair of diamond earrings created for her by jeweler Robinson Pelham. Although the earrings were designed to compliment the tiara, the also bare resemblance to the Middleton family’s new coat of arms.

After several sessions with makeup artist Arabella Preston, Kate did her own makeup for her special day. James Price, longtime stylist created a “demi-chignon” for Kate; a half-updo with cascading curls to offset the tiara.

Lastly, though I believe the significance equally important, is Kate’s beautiful bouquet. Anyone would agree that of all weddings, royal weddings do the best job in keeping traditions alive. This includes the symbolism held in the bridal bouquet. The bouquet included lily-of-the-valley (for return of happiness), hyacinth (consistency of love), and ivy (for fidelity, marriage, and affection), as well as stems from plants grown from sprigs of the bridal bouquets of Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth.

Though this beautiful wedding included so many more highlights, the bride is always the best to remember. Think about that, future brides. One day all your friends and family will be able to remember is the princess-like beauty you carry through your entire day.

Happy Planning,

Deanna M

Bridal Assistant

Bridal Hairpieces

2011-04-27T11:00:00.000-06:00

You’ve said yes to the dress now its time to add some flare to your wedding wardrobe with a fabulous hairpiece.

Traditional veils have been the common hairpieces for brides in the past but today there are so many options of fun and romantic pieces. Carrie Bradshaw may have started the trend in the Sex and the City movie by “wearing a bird in her hair.” You may not want to wear a bird, but a birdcage veil with a small accessory on it can add that sass to your dress, you can also add a more dramatic look with a colored piece. SUKI offers custom made veils and hair accessories to match your wedding parties dresses. Find them on Facebook or email suki.sisters@gmail.com to order.

Not a fan of birdcage veils but still want to make a statement? Feathers will do just that. Jennifer Behr has a fabulous bridal collection that includes a veil made of pure ostrich feathers swept across to cover your face.

If your wedding is the more on the vintage side, a lace head band with some chiffon may be for you. Placed with the right hairstyle this can look vintage and very romantic without a veil.

For a bride that wants some bling, adorn a head wrap with Swarovski crystals, you’ll be sure to shine in the spot light.

Of course you can also wear a flashy hair comb or barrette on the side or to tie your hair back. Its just adds that little touch and doesn’t overpower that attention to your dress.

Walk down that aisle with confidence and find your inner bride with any of these and be the fashionista of your wedding.

Happy Planning!

Cheryl G.
Bridal Consultant

Spring Wedings

2011-04-20T11:00:00.058-06:00

Do you have Spring Fever?

Maybe it's a little hard to have Spring Fever with the weather we've been having but there are many couples having fun spring weddings on a warm day in the sun surrounded by all the season elements.

Here are three tips to help you have the perfect Spring Wedding.

1. Location:

Nothing says spring wedding like a garden ceremony. One of the most popular outdoor ceremony locations in Calgary is Baker Park. Overlooking the river, it is a beautiful location to say "I do" while enjoying the sights and sounds of spring. Now anyone who lives in Calgary knows how unpredictable our weather can be so, make sure you have a contingency plan in case it rains or even snows. Whether you have tent, another indoor location or "just in case"umbrellas for your guests you want to make sure rain or shine that you will be walking down the aisle.

An outdoor reception location would be a classic back yard wedding. Be sure the size of your location is able to accommidate you guest count. This is a wonderful way to save some money while making it special by celebrating your big day at a personalize location.

Other ideas for outdoor ceremony locations in Calgary include:
- Lougheed House
- The Al Azhar Shriner Centre
- The Ranche
And if you are willing to travle a bit
- Silvertip Resort in Canmore, AB

2. Decor

One of the first things you want to think about is the flowers. The flowers in Spring are usually soft with delicate colors like baby pink, soft purples, light yellows, light oranges, greens, etc. Talk to your florist to help you create the perfect bouquet as well as other floral arrangements for the wedding. When it comes to a Spring Wedding I don't think you can have enough flowers. Consider flowers as centerpieces, ceremony aisle decor, tall arrangements at the reception and ceremony, etc. Below is a floral arrangement that screams Spring.

Another detail that we love is hanging chandeliers from a tree for an outdoor wedding. It makes even the simplest outdoor wedding elegant.

3. The Dress

Your dress will be the most important detail that makes your spring wedding complete. Think about more fitted dresses with simple, yet elegant. Again, lace is a nice touch to help make the dress feel like spring. Consider what type of fit will work best for your spring wedding, as well as the location. For example, if your celebrating in a large tent, a fuller dress would work well. However, if you are planning to celebrate intimately in a back yard, a more fitted look would be much easier to handle!

Now you have some ideas to help complete your spring wedding. Remember Calgary weather is very unpredictable but if you have a contingency plan then your bound to have the perfect Spring Wedding, rain or shine.

Happy Planning,

Monica W.
Bridal Consultant

Wedding Professional Titles Part 2 - Planners

2011-04-14T17:44:00.000-06:00

Well we had a little hiatus from our series, but I am now back with the second part of our series about Wedding Professional Titles. Today we are looking at Wedding Planners.

When you say Wedding Planner, there are many things that come to mind. The two most common that I hear are "Oh, like Jennifer Lopez", or, "Oh like Martin Short in Father of the Bride." Not that either are an accurate depiction of what a wedding planner is, but I'd have to say I prefer the J-Lo reference if I had to choose.
Wedding Planner is probably the most popular title among wedding professionals, as it encompasses exactly what most brides are looking for; someone to plan their wedding. A wedding planner will help you pick your venue and your vendors, help you with the wording of your invitations, organize your seating chart and will always be there to advise you when have questions of any kind.

Preparing for your meeting with a potential planner

There are a few things to prepare before meeting with a potential planner that will help both you and her make the most of your first visit. You should come knowing the level of service you are looking for; what do you want help with? What would you like to do on your own, and how flexible are you on both of those lists? Know how involved you want to be in the process. Do you want a weekly update on what was done, or are you happy giving the planner your ideas and hearing about the major updates?

It is always helpful to bring the ideas you have for your wedding, and any pictures you have saved that show your ideas.

And don't forget to bring you fiancée! It's his wedding too!

Pricing

As with anything, please remember you get what you pay for. There is always going to be someone out there who is cheaper; but they are cheaper for a reason. Some things you can choose based on price such as groceries, flip flops and gas. Your wedding however, is not where you want to sacrifice quality for a few bucks.

There are a few different fee structures for planners. Find out before you meet with potential planners which fee structure they use so you can come prepared with the information they will need to give you an accurate estimate.

Some will charge a percentage of your overall budget, so you will need to know what your overall budget is going to be.

Others will charge a percentage of the part of the budget they are helping you with. For example, if they are helping you with vendors and venue, then they will charge a percentage of your venue and vendor budget. For these planners be sure to bring a basic breakdown of your budget.

Some will charge per guest, so you will need to know your approximate guest list size.

And others will charge a flat fee based on the services they are going to be providing you. For these planners, bring a budget of what you are willing to spend on planning services.

Choosing you planner

The most important part of choosing your planner is confidence it is someone you trust. Do you get a good feeling from them? Do you feel they understand your vision and you can talk with them easily? Do they give you that undeniable feeling of confidence? If you do not trust your planner, they will not be able to do their job properly because you will not be comfortable giving them control. Besides, if you can’t relax with your planner around, you lose the whole point of having someone to help and guide you through the process just the way you need!

Secondly, make sure they actually know what they are doing. Can they give you references of former clients and wedding professionals? Ask any of the vendors and or venues you've already booked if they know of your potential planner! Do they write a blog? Is it informative and regularly updated? Have they taken any courses, training or classes? Lastly, consider this person will be planning and organizing your wedding, so a great indication will be how easy the initial consult booking process is. How many times did you have to go back and forth to get a time? How organized was the consult? Was there an agenda she followed well or was it all over the place? There are many new planners in Calgary, and many of them are amazing, but many might not last very long, so make sure you have a full understanding of their capabilities.

Your planner will relieve so much stress and have all the answers you need, it will be well worth your investment.

Happy Planning!

Jasmine Esau
Bridal Consultant

Reflection Number One: It’s All About The Hair

2011-04-06T11:00:00.002-06:00

Hair style is the final tip-off whether or not a woman really knows herself. ~Hubert de Givenchy, Vogue, July 1985

It was May 16^th 2009, and I was only twenty days away from being a blushing bride. I felt I had waited for my last hair cut and color for a lifetime, but it was finally here. Walking into my hairstylist’s salon, I immediately knew something was wrong. She beamed a “Hey Dee!” right before she messed a confused look on her face. No sooner was I greeted by the receptionist; “what’s the name?” After what seemed to be hours of searching for my name, she came up blank. “I can’t find you in here, just hold on a minute”. She scurried off and I scurried through my day planner. I didn’t understand why she couldn’t find my name; I had it written down perfectly in my planner. She came back, showed me I was booked for another week as far as their records, and she could do nothing about it. I should have screamed… or maybe I did. It all happened so quickly and this was the only day I was allowed to take away from work as I was getting ready for a lengthy honeymoon. I panicked, said a sad goodbye to my stylist, and ran out the door. Lesson number one soon to be brides: If you are found in this position, which I hope you will not, do not give into temptations to seek a new professional. Stay calm.

I called my back-up and received no luck. I called my best friend’s stylist since I thought I could trust them from the perfection of my besties hair. Again, no luck. Instead of taking a moment, I walked into the nearest hair salon, and hoped for the best. Lesson number two: Back away from the unknown hair salon in seemingly desperate times!

I was introduced to Sasha, who moved from Germany and liked to talk more than me. He also had ten years experience in this field and I felt alright. I explicitly told the man I was getting married in three weeks, needed a trim, and quick color. I’m obviously too trusting… Lesson number three: Explicit is never enough when you’re with a new stylist.

Long story short I cried a little when I walked out of that place. He didn’t understand how feathered my layers were, and I ended up with a chunk of hair falling by my face an inch shorter than the other side. I received a call from my back up apologizing for not getting the call sooner. As I told her the story, I heard a continuous “Oh nooo… Oh noooo! I’m buying you extensions tonight!” Lesson Number Four: Wait for the call back! Just wait!

Although I made many a mistake before my big day, I’m sure you’ve heard much worse stories. A woman’s hair is so much of who we are. While you are planning your big day, consider the lessons I learned, as well as some of the best advise I have ever heard from some past brides.

“Go with your gut; if you want long wavy hair flowing as you breeze down the isle, forget your mom’s expectation to have your hair in a perfect twist. It’s your day!” – Alyssa

“I didn’t always go straight to hair magazines. Check out some celebrities who have the same face shape and style as you; that’s how I found my look.” Rachel

“I wanted my hair to look just as beautiful as it does every other day I’m willing to style it. I wasn’t about to have someone else do that for me… so if you know and love your style- stick with it because you want to look like your beautiful self”- Melodie

“My personality is big, so is my hair. I didn’t wait to take away from my dress or the hair accessory though, so I learned from my stylist how we could make it all complimentary of the whole package.” –Rocio

“Don’t be afraid to tell your stylist you don’t like what they have created. They want to get it just right to your expectation, so if they don’t meet that, they are just as let down as you are. Speak up until you get it just right.” Valerie, stylist.

Hair really is everything, and on your special day, you want to have your hair reflect who you are. Rushing to satisfy deadlines, saying you like it when you really don’t, or doing what others think is best will only make your reflections more of an “I wish” when it should really be “I’d never change a thing”.

Before I go, you should know I loved my hair on the day of my wedding. Thanks to a wonderful stylist who bought extensions, and another who didn’t stop trying until my face showed my approval, I’d never change a single thing about my wedding hair. I hope to hear the same from you.

Happy Planning you beautiful bride!

Deanna M

Bridal Assistant

Reception Design Details

2011-03-23T11:00:00.001-06:00

There are many details that you need to consider when decorating your reception venue. Everyone has a different budget and style so sometimes it's hard to do everything. Below is my list of the top 3 details that make a big difference and when possible should not be ignored:

1. Chairs - You could bring in a nice chair like a Chiavari from a rental company like Special Event Rentals or you can rent a chair wrap or cover to put on the chairs that the venue has. Both options look amazing and both options make a dramatic statement. Think about it there will be more chairs than anything else. Look at the pictures below, can you see the difference?

2. Napkins - Napkins make a big statement too especially when they are folded wrong on the table. When it comes to napkins they don't have to be rented you can use the ones at the venue if they fit in your wedding color palette. Although I will mention satin napkins look amazing. As mentioned in past blogs napkins should not be placed in wine glasses and they should not be folded into a standing triangle or fan on the table because then they become the focal point on the table. After spending money on your centerpieces you don't want the napkins to be the main statement on the table. Again check out the difference between the pictures below.

3. Lighting - Whenever possible adding lighting makes a big difference in a room. Most venues have fluorescent lighting and it really shouldn't be turned on or if they need to be on dim them as much as possible. Adding candles to the table (if the venue allows it), spotlights and gobos make all the difference. The lighting creates the overall feeling and atmosphere for the wedding. Again see the difference between the pictures below.

There is one other item that should be considered for your reception design. When deciding what venue to go with take into consideration the flooring. Some hotels and halls have red, blue, green, etc carpet with a pattern and the carpets cannot be covered. It's hard to take your eyes off of these carpets so make sure you color palette compliments the carpet and doesn't make the carpet stand out more. Otherwise you can consider booking a venue with different carpet or hard wood flooring.

Hopefully these ideas have helped point you in the right direction. Everyone has a different budget and expectations for their wedding but these details will help make sure you get the best bang for your buck because the room will look beautiful if you take care of these main points and make them your first priority.

Happy Planning,

Monica W

Budgeting your Wedding

2011-03-16T11:00:00.001-06:00

Starting to plan your wedding? You may quickly find out that it can be a tad more expensive and overwhelming than you had thought. Don’t worry you can still have your dream day, and preparing the “Dreaded” budget can help you achieve that. Don’t let the word budget scare you or make you think “cheap”. It may not be the most exciting area in planning your wedding, but they are still important no matter how much you want to spend on your wedding. Budgets are a great tool in deciding where to spend more money and where you can save.

Set a budget and stick to it. Don’t just have this number in your head. Write it down. Make a list on every single thing you want and what are the most important. Decor? Photographer? Food? Venue? I suggest you do some research and see what these areas actually cost; they may be different than what you thought.

There are many tools out there to help you build your budget. You can go online and download a generic template or look in wedding magazines. You could also create your own with an excel spreadsheet.

Budgets not really your thing? Do they bore or frustrate you? Ask your wedding planner to help you with this. Sadly to admit I am a spreadsheet queen and most other planners will admit to this as well. Organization and maintenance is key to a budget. Wedding planners will sit with you and go through in detail costs of your wedding and make a specific budget designed just for your wedding. They also know little costs that you may have not thought of. It’s easy to make a budget at the beginning and not follow through, toss it aside. Your wedding planner will take the ease off of you to maintain it and also keep you on track and accountable. In the end this will help you have a stress free wedding.

As much as it’s not the most fabulous part of planning a wedding, a budget is something you will have to face. Let your wedding planner tackle it with you.

Happy Planning,

Cheryl G
Bridal Consultant

Ten Sure Ways to Ruin Her Special Day

2011-03-09T11:00:00.001-07:00

Dear Bridesmaids, Girl Friends, and Mothers,

I once heard this awful story about a young bride who didn’t choose her bridesmaids carefully. Like those two evil step sisters in Disneys’ Cinderella, these bridesmaids chanted and whined in selfish desire. Unfortunate for this bride, she heard more “I want” and “I need” than one could ever wish to hear. In more ways than one, guests gasped in looks of horror as the sweet young bride quietly told of her woes. Ladies, Honored Maids; please be wise and do not, do not, do not follow these simple rules. They are sure ways to ruin her very special day.

1. Make your outfit priority

Although you may be excited to get dressed to the nines, treat yourself to that perfect new clutch… this day is not about you. Enjoy the opportunity to luxe yourself, but remember that your bride needs as much support as she can get while choosing her dress, and accessories. It can be a dizzying event, so put her needs first.

2. Lie about your whereabouts when you are supposed to help set up

Although I get great satisfaction assisting brides prepare for their day, I understand you may not thrive setting up place cards, centerpieces, favors, etc. However, your bride is probably tired, and your willingness to help will encourage her to keep on! Besides, you must remember, the truth will always come out.

3. Get 'celebratory' drunk prior to the ceremony

It may seem like a fun idea to steal the brides’ parents wine and toast your way with the girls all the way to the ceremony, but nothing could be further from the truth when the photos come back of your red eyes, way too rosy cheeks, and the fall you took on your way past the pews. Honor your bride, and wait to celebrate once the dance starts, there is a time and place for everything.

4. Show with pride your bitterness towards the brides’ deep love for her groom

Simple and true, your bride should feel the right to relish in her love for her groom- put your feelings aside for a day and let her fall deep into hers.

5. Talk incessantly on your cell phone during bridal party photos

It may be important, it may seem like your life. But let it wait until later or the next day and enjoy those photo sessions. The only exception to this would be finalizing wedding plans on behalf of the bride. Your participation will make or break the memories the couple holds for life.

6. Be honest when your personal taste doesn’t match hers

There is a major difference in knowing when something doesn’t seem like ‘your bride’ to choose, verses your own personal taste. If you don’t like it but you really know she does; grin and bare it girlfriend. It’s only one day.

7. If you don’t like the other brides maids, be sure to let your bride know...after the wedding

Of all days to start drama between friends, today is definitely not it. If there are issues with the bridesmaids which need desperately to be solved, do it outside the knowledge of your bride. She has enough going on and doesn’t need more to concern herself with.

8. Remember its’ the brides responsibility to take care of you

Your bride may love to pamper you, but take on a little responsibility and book your hairdresser and make up artist if she approves. The less she needs to worry about, the more she loves you.

9. You know what’s best, tell your bride what she should do

The misconception here is that your bride is too hassled or preoccupied to know how she really feels or what needs to be done. The truth is that she just needs your listening ear, and sometimes, your helping hand. Hear her out, and respect her wishes.

10. Tell as many embarrassing past boyfriend stories during your toast to the bride

Today is about the brides unimaginable love for her brand new husband. Bringing up old news is never cool at these times. Instead, think of fun ways to giggle about the stories just the two of you share!

Although this is a silly way of my sharing what not to do, this day really is all about the bride. Unfortunately all of these 'what not to do rules' are only a few of the stories I've been told from brides. Your bride chose you because you mean the world to her. Take the time for an entire day to pamper her, meet her needs, blow her mind with kindness and love. Show her in return how you think the world of her.

Sincerely,

Deanna M.

Bridal Assistant

The Wedding Shoes

2011-02-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

Details Details Details.

Your wedding day takes months to plan, there are many big decisions you need to make like choosing flowers, your caterer, the DJ and your wedding dress. In the midst of all the big decisions don't let the small details be forgotten, those are the ones that make your day a true reflection of you and your fiance. One of those small but important details is your wedding shoes. They can help jazz up any picture and create just the statement your looking for. I don't think I need to convince most girls that really its just another opportunity to buy a new pair of shoes!

Below are some tips to help find the perfect pair of shoes that will really define your style and that of your bridal parties:

First things first, what is your favorite color? Personally I have dreamed about having hot pink shoes for my wedding as they are just so daring and vibrant. There are many vivacious colors to choose from that can help add some flair to you wedding day. If your not into bright colors you can pick something more traditional and soft that compliments your personal style.

After deciding what color of shoe to go with it's time to think about what style you want it may not be practical for everyday wear but it's perfect for your wedding day. Pick a heel size that your comfortable walking in and I recommend wearing them around the house the weeks leading up to your wedding to break them in and make sure that you can wear them for extended periods of time. Also, make sure you have a back up pair of shes to wear in case your feet get too sore.

Many photographers like taking detail pictures of your shoes because its super fun and it adds that playful touch to your photos. Detail photos are always a nice touch among the other traditional pictures that you get done on your wedding day.

Now that you have chosen your wedding shoes it's time to consider the bridesmaids shoes. Do you want all the bridesmaids to be in the same shoe or do you want them to be wearing the same color of shoes but in different styles? Another great idea is having the bridesmaids in different colors of shoes (if it works with their dresses of course) just a fun way to differentiate them from one another and make them all unique. Many times the bridesmaids are in different colored dresses or different styles to make each of the bridesmaids look and feel exclusive.

Now lets not forget the men. The groom and his groomsmen have many options available to look at different dress shoes that help make a statement while creating some fun pictures much like the girls shoes. The guys can look at all white shoes with a black tux or better yet a dress shoe with black and white on them. Another creative idea that many couples have used is the groom and groomsmen having bright or patterned tall socks on. These socks are usually captured in various pictures that the photography takes whether their sitting or pulling their trouser legs up to showcase this playful touch they have added to their outfit.

The shoes may not be as important as the dress but they really help you and your bridal party make a statement on your big day.

Happy Planning,

Monica W.
Bridal Consultant

Ceremony Aisle Decor

2011-02-09T11:00:00.006-07:00

Your ceremony is the introduction and first impression of your wedding. It’s not only that but an important part of your day, the time that you exchange your vows with all your loved ones amongst you. A ceremony may not be the longest part of your wedding day but it is still important to add a touch of décor whether its traditional or your own unique style.

Depending on where your ceremony is being held your décor may change. If it is outside with a view you may want to keep it simple not to take away from the view. If you are celebrating it in a church the more traditional décor may be your taste. This is also a good time to create the mood you want for your whole wedding. Either way here are some fun and fabulous ideas for your ceremony décor.

The most common aisle marker for a ceremony is tying flowers to either the pews, or sides of chairs. This is a romantic and lovely look. A few ways to add a different touch are placing your flowers in either silk or linen bags. Hanging them in a vintage vase or lantern or how about in a paper cone. You can add your own touch to the cone such as your initials, the date in crystals or adding fun or romantic words to them. These would be a great project if you like to be involved in the decorating of your day. Florists such as Modern Petals and Floral inspirations would be able to integrate flowers in these designs.

An alternative to real flowers is to make pomanders or bouquets out of paper or silk flowers. These can easily have the look of real flowers and all you need to create these are tissue paper (or silk flowers), wire, styrofoam ball and ribbon to hang them. Add a touch of potpourri to them to give a flower scent.

When we think of aisle markers we usually first think of bouquets of flowers, but trees and twigs can add to the feel and theme you are wanting. You can have them standing alone, tied to the ends of aisle or in a tall vase with a few flowers.

Thinking of something other than flowers? Fruits such as apples, lemons or limes are a great way to add that special taste to your décor. You can use them with flowers or my favorite is this aisle runner of limes, a unique and trendy way to line your aisle.

Lets not forget the lighting. Lighting is important to add that feel you want. You can have floating candles in a short or tall vase or else votives on top of a column. If the venue does not allow candles place small pin or spot lights displaying the aisle décor that you have chosen.

These are just a few ideas for your ceremony aisle makers and décor. Your Reflections Wedding team have many more custom ideas for your ceremony as you become husband and wife.

Happy Planning!

Cheryl G.
Jr. Bridal Consultant

Preparing for a Day, Preparing for Life

2011-02-02T11:00:00.011-07:00

"Grow old with me... the best is yet to be!" -Robert Browning

I can recall the look on my face, many girlfriends faces, and brides I've had the priviledge working alongside as we all realized we're getting married. There seems to be much emotion of the beauty, the immense love, and deep desire we have to grow old with the man we somehow dreamed into reality. Some shed a tear, some giggle, and if you're like me, you may forget to breathe as you rehearse your "I Do" in little whispers. One thing I urge you not forget; you aren't simply preparing for your wedding day, your preparing for a marriage. This beautiful encounter of everlasting time and love may seem whimsical, but I can guarantee there will be a point during your wedding planning when you will question what your doing, why he won't help with the planning, and what kind of rule can you establish about the toilet seat before its too late! I'd like to suggest a few ideas to help you have a fun time planning your wedding with your fiancee.

As I said earlier, you are planning for a beautiful day; you will also have to live with the man you marry after the big day, so you might as well make the bond stronger as you prepare to commit your lives to each other. First, think together of some things you both are very interested in. If he loves technology or music perhaps he can be in charge of the deejay or live band. If you are both in love with design and decor, ask if your fiancee would mind you handling different color schemes for the reception venue. The most important thing you can do for each other is continue to include each other in every decision. This way, both of you will always feel a great part of this journey together. Next obstacle to consider is any vendor and planning meetings you'll need to attend.

If your fiancee would rather drink from a dirty fish bowl than head to the next planning meeting with your wedding planner, tell him you've set up a surprise if he's able to join you. Once your meeting is done, surprise him with a fun night out playing pool or video games with his favorite treats. Encourage his participation with your gratitude! Although it is easy to get caught up in your own expectations of his involvement, you set yourself up for success when you consider his help in choosing the flowers is as fun for him as watching endless hours of sport highlights is for you.

Lastly, many couples are encouraged by the ceremony venues they are getting married at to go through premarital counselling. I can say from experience that these sessions are really helpful tools, insight, and resources for you and your fiancee to help understand yourself and each other so you can lovingly grow old with each other! Check out the Calgary Counselling Center for some fantastic options.

The most important part of planning your big day, is that you have set your marriage up for long term success and ever growing love. A fulfilling marriage brings much joy, and the way you love and respect each other during the planning process will make the memory of your special day even fonder. So please, consider each other, consider your future together, and the best is yet to be!

Happy Planning,

Deanna M

Bridal Assistant

Scrapbooking Your Wedding

2011-01-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

Scrapbooking is a wonderful way to preserve memories and express some creative energy. It’s a fun and rewarding memento of any achievement in your life, and this includes your wedding! The photographs, the beautiful paper, the ribbons, the stickers and stamps... the decorative touches available these days are just about endless. Furthermore, scrapbooking is quite simply as personal and reflective as you choose to make it. A great place to start getting some inspiration for your album is a specialty store such as Scrapbooker’s Paradise. Another great landmark in Calgary for high end paper products is The Social Page.

It’s important to start planning your scrapbook as soon as you start planning your wedding. I know you have a million other things to do right now, but hear me out! This isn’t a labour intensive process, rather it just means being aware of the special things that are happening while you plan your wedding. The first step of building your album is to start collecting meaningful mementoes throughout your engagement. For example, hang on to your bridal shower invite, a pretty napkin from your engagement party, a bar coaster from your bachelorette party, and meaningful note of wisdom from your grandmother. Love letters from your fiancé are also encouraged! Combined with pictures spanning this period, you’ll see things easily organized when you set out to start scrapbooking.

A process I find helpful when organizing your memories and pictures is to create a timeline of events. This helps simplify a sometimes daunting task and allows you to work on sections of a time without becoming overwhelmed. Here are a few helpful sections I use when compiling wedding scrapbooks for family and friends:

1) The Dating Years
    - Include pictures, love notes, pressed flowers, and anything else special from these first love-struck moments

2) The Engagement
   - Newspaper announcements of your engagement
   - A copy of your wedding invitation!

3) Bridal Shower
   - Include the invite, along with any party games your girls organized for you

4) Bachelorette Party
    - This section may be a bit to scandalous to print! Include whatever you think grandma and mom can handle viewing

5) Rehearsal Dinner
    - Include a sample menu of the dinner along with candid photo’s

6) Wedding!
    - This sections is easiest divided into two sections: Ceremony & Reception
    - Include your ceremony program, meaningful readings and prayers
    - Memorable speeches, menu & place cards
    - Another great insert is a printout of the lyrics of your first dance

7) Honeymoon
   - Again, this section is up to your discretion! I suggest postcards of your local, brochures of activities you did, or even a little sea shell you collected on the beach.

Scatter all of these above topics with your favourite photographs, with special emphasis on the actual wedding day of course! Conclude your book with a special card or quote that you find inspiring.

Crafty or not, I encourage all of you brides to give scrapbooking your wedding a fair shot. It’s not something that needs to be perfect, in fact- imperfection is what makes these albums so special! So go ahead... pull out your pictures, gather up your new husband (or not)... and get busy! I guarantee you’ll be so pleased you did it in the months and years to come.

Happy planning!

Adeline S.
Wedding Consultant

Choosing the PERFECT Favor

2011-01-19T11:56:00.000-07:00

Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same. ~Emily Brontë

Wedding favors are a gesture of appreciation given to guests to thank them for taking the time to come and celebrate your special day with you and your family. Choosing the perfect favor is tricky and of course you want to give them a gift reflecting you as a couple. Below are some different tips and ideas to help point you in the right direction when choosing the perfect favor.

First things first; take the time to think of what your friends and family would say ‘perfectly describe you’ individually. Then consider different activities and qualities that describe you as a couple. Perhaps it’s a favorite sports team where you cheered each other on and off the field, the university library where you first met at a study group, or your favorite place to travel together. Perhaps you both adore tea time together, or are wine connoisseurs. The ideas you come up with will help you decide what kind of favors you would like to incorporate in your big day.

As favors come in all shapes, sizes, price lines, you have a lot to consider. Never mind whether you would like the favor to include a tasty treat! Chocolates and sweets are very popular with couples who have a sweet tooth of their own. If you aren’t a chocolate lover, you can consider many other keepsakes. There are so many things people may not have even thought of as an option. Golf balls, cooking utensils, a mini recipe book of your favorite dishes to cook, flip flops, bottle openers, or photo frames for the photography lover in you! Eatable favors could include popcorn, salt water taffy, loose leaf tea & tea-spoon, or candy apples.

Now that you have an idea of what you would like to gift your guests with, you need to find tangible ways to get your favors. Your best bet is always the internet. With so many blogs and wedding favor websites, you are sure to find exactly what you are looking for, customized to a tee. One of my favorite inspiration sites is Style Me Pretty and Favor Ideas. There are so many unique ideas for weddings, and especially creative favors. As everyone is looking for something guests can remember, customizing your favor will ensure your guests never forget you, and your special day. Consider a monogram of your initials, engrave a special thanks from you both, or even the wedding date. If you like the idea of personally working on your favors, why not create your very own thank you label, and attach it to your favor with pretty ribbon.

Once you are ready to place an order online, I would recommend checking out these websites. Orders can be paid online, and prices are in Canadian dollars. Wedding-Favours.ca, Wedding Favors.org and My Wedding Favors.

Remember favors look very different for everyone. If these ideas don’t speak to you, perhaps consider donating to a charity in the honor of your guests names, and place a card at each table setting to let them know the difference they’ve made in your life, and now the lives of others. The I Do Foundation is a great place to start looking for specific charities for you.

Favors have the potential to be such a personal touch to your special day. Use this opportunity to say thank you to your guests, in a way they just simply couldn’t forget.

Happy Planning,

Monica W

Wedding Consultant

Bridal Fantasy 2011

2011-01-13T14:50:00.000-07:00

Alright eager brides, supportive grooms and overly excited mothers! 2011 is upon us, and so is a whole new year for weddings. Particularly… your wedding! You need to find your photographer, visualize your bridal gown in 3D, and coordinate your color scheme. You need flowers, favor ideas, honeymoon specialists, and obviously a wedding planner who will help you accomplish all this and more. The beginning of a new year is when many brides are kicking their planning into high gear, and the industry knows it. That’s why we are sending out this special invitation for you, your fiancé, and favorite ladies to come meet us at the 2011 Bridal Fantasy show happening this weekend in Calgary's Telus Convention Centre. We’ve been planning so many special things for you to see and experience at our booth this year. There are also so many different prizes to be given away!

When you arrive as the doors open at 10:30 am you’ll be given a coupon. Be sure to check out our offer, which is $150.00 off packages booked in January with Reflections Weddings. Then come and meet the team. You’ll recognize us by our big smiles. There is our fierce leader, Jasmine: Owner and Lead Designer, as well as our three wedding consultants Adeline, Cheryl, and Monica. Hopefully I’ll get to meet you as well; Deanna...the privileged personal and bridal assistant. Besides, our incredibly talented design and consultant team is ready to have your eyes feast on the booth in all it's glory. This work of art has been in progress for months! Although I don’t want to spill too many secrets about that, I can dish on the great value you will receive after purchasing your $20.00 ticket online.

At the door you’ll receive a FREE Wedding Planner, and a free issue of Bridal Fantasy Magazine; which is valued at more than the cost of your ticket! There are two prize draws at 1:00 pm, and then again at 3:30 pm where a prize from each exhibitor will be given away. Reflections is excited to give away our Preferred Vendor List in two categories of the bride’s choice ($160 value) at each give away! For the grand prize, we’ll be giving away a Reception Design worth $695.00 on its’ own! There is so much more to look forward to including a grand prize draw is for the Fantasy One Week Honeymoon to Jamaica, courtesy of AMA Travel, Air Canada Vacations, and Sandals Resorts.

Last but not least, you’d better hurry and book your personal appointment online www.imagetherapists.com/bridal with the extraordinary Liana Chaouli; internationally known celebrity Image Therapist who will be on site to help you understand your personal style and image. Who couldn’t use a little help from a professional who’s been advising CEO’s and celebrities for over twenty years when it comes to the most important gown of your life!

The anticipation of this weekend is mounting, and we certainly cannot wait for the opportunity to meet, and hopefully help you create the best and most special day of your life.

Happy Planning,

Deanna M

Bridal Assistant

Wedding Professional Titles Part 1 - Coordinators

2011-01-05T17:29:00.000-07:00

There is no question the wedding industry is constantly growing here in Calgary. There are also many new titles popping up within the industry and today's bride is left to decipher between each title, and distinguish which one would be best for her. Let me help you take some of the guess work out it!

Trying to fit both the pros and cons of each title led me to believe I would sooner write a book than a blog! I am going to make it a series instead; so stay tuned to learn all about each title!

Part 1 - Coordinators
Part 2 - Planners
Part 3 - Designers
Part 4 - Decorators
Part 5 - Consultants

Part 1 - The Wedding Coordinator

With pretty much everyone offering a form of Day-Of Coordination and many brides employing this service as a way of having a planner when they cannot afford full planning services Wedding Coordinators seem to be a popular title from the Brides point of view. As well as it is one of the more understandable titles, a coordinator does pretty much that...coordinates.

A coordinator will take your well laid plans and ensure they run smoothly, they will make sure that all vendors arrive when they should, that the boutonnieres get pinned, that the ceremony decor gets transferred from the church to the reception hall, that there are pens for the guest book and if they are a good coordinator, is there from the beginning of the day to the end of the day and will take care of anything and everything that needs to be handled.

This title is also probably the most highly debated title among wedding professionals. The debate is can you really be just a Coordinator? Just show up on the day-of and make everything run smoothly? No prior contact with the rest of the vendors, no prior relationship with the families of the bride and groom just have one meeting with the bride and groom to get general overview and show up with a magic wand to make everything come together! It's very difficult to not be a part of the planning process and gain a full understanding a week before the wedding. The coordinator was not there for the conversation the bride had with the Banquet Manager that she does not want the wine just placed on the tables she would like it served, so when the Banquet Manager forgets this detail and places the wine bottles it is up to the bride or the mother of the bride to correct this mistake and that is the last thing they should be worrying about.

It is for this reason that you need to careful when booking your wedding coordinator, be wary if they only offer one meeting before the day of, or if they do not offer vendor communication services or if there is time limits on the day of.

A day-of coordination package should really be called at-least-a-month-of coordination package. Your coordinator should have at least 3 meetings with you before hand, contact all of your vendors to become familiar with them so she knows who they are and they know who she is on the day of, she should meet with your caterer or banquet manager at least once to discuss the details and timeline of the reception and be present at the ceremony rehearsal to get an understand of the flow as more often then not coordinators are called on to direct the processional. This is what your "day-of" coordinator should do at minimum. At Reflections we do all this and more! Contact us today set up a consultation to hear all about how we help you in the weeks leading up to your wedding and on your wedding day!

Very few wedding professionals refer to themselves simply as a Coordinator, and I would suggest you be cautious if they do. Many planners, designers and consultant will offer coordination services, but not title themselves a Wedding Coordinator as it truly is a service, not a title. Wedding Coordinator as a title is more suited to a Venue Coordinator, or the Wedding Coordinator at a church.

Stay tuned for part 2 where we will look at the very popular title of Wedding Planner!

Happy Planning!

Jasmine Esau

Bridal Consultant

Reception Lighting

2010-12-31T09:11:00.000-07:00

In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary. ~Aaron Rose

Lighting, a forgotten element when planning your wedding reception, but one of the most fundamental in creating the mood you and your guests should feel. Here are some lighting tips and options for you to make your celebration extraordinary! Check out the example below of a wedding we designed in Oct 2010, executed by Fusion Bollywood.

First thing you need to do is turn off that fluorescent lighting! Trust me nothing is flattering in fluorescent. Take notice of the lighting next time you walk into department stores or restaurants. Remember the feeling you had when you walked in, which one had more of an impression on you and why. It’s all about the lighting; Lighting creates the “feeling” and fluorescent can bring a cold informal feel which can spoil the atmosphere you are looking for. Another mood breaker can be those bright overhead pot lights. Dim these for a more appealing ambiance.

I would suggest when choosing your venue that you inquire about the lighting options and ask if you add your own.

Now bring in the coloured lighting. Flood lights illuminated on walls or fabric are great for adding a dramatic flare to the atmosphere of a room. Available in many colors, this lighting can transform the room into a soft romantic feel or a warm vibrant one. Be sure to have proper placement and intensity not to overpower your decor. This is where your Reflections wedding planner will come in handy.

Do you love being in the spot light? So does your cake and your centerpieces, give them the attention they deserve and make them shine and sparkle with pin lighting. Pin lighting is a smaller version of your flood lights. They can be set on your tables to highlight and accentuate your centerpieces, decor and your cake.

Personalize your reception with a monogram of your newlywed initials and the special date with gobo lighting. Gobo lights are stationary lighting fitted with a gobo to project a specific pattern. You can creatively enhance your theme with stylish patterns such as damask designs, trees and more projected on your dance floor or plain wall behind your head table. Check out Starlite Rentals for your lighting needs in Calgary. A great example is the tent wedding we designed in Aug 08' shown below.

Don’t forget about the little guys as well. Candle votives are always an excellent way to add that touch of romance, along with mini string lights hanging from the ceiling or wrapped around pillars to create that intimate effect. Why not hang fabulous crystal chandeliers for a more elegant chic feel. Ok maybe not quite a little guy but all of these lighting choices will no doubt make your wedding reception fabulous and unforgettable.

Happy Planning and Happy New Year!

Cheryl G.

Alternatives to Floral Bouquets

2010-12-22T11:00:00.001-07:00

Flowers are a beautiful accent to any wedding day, but more and more brides have turned towards other options for their bouquets. Allergies, seasonal concerns or just wanting a unique touch on your special day are all excellent reasons to try something a bit different. Antique brooches, buttons, and even pinwheels are making their glorious debut in the wedding world to much fanfare and attention. And the best part is you get to keep your bouquet long after the confetti is thrown... so long wilted blooms! Here are my top 5 picks for non-floral options for your bridal bouquet:

1) Brooch Bouquets

If you haven’t seen these before, they are a must to check out! Vintage, original and beautiful to boot, these bouquets are composed entirely of brooches. How cool is that! Find your own brooches in your grandma’s jewellery box, antique shows (such as Crossroads Market), or have one custom made. Fantasy Floral Designs has a plethora of specialty bouquets that range from bright and colourful, to understated and classic. Brooch bouquets are a gorgeous way to include your something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue.

2) Paper Flowers

I must confess that I love the idea of beautiful paper flowers made into an even more gorgeous bouquet. With all the lovely papers out there these days, options are endless for these unique collections. For those who worry these blooms may end up looking like the tissue paper & pipe cleaner flowers you made for your mom in grade 2, fear not! There are many online retailers that can help you with your paper flower journey. Fun and whimsical paper flower kits can be purchased online at Paper Source.

3) Button Bouquet

Buttons are a fabulous and eco-friendly option to consider for your bridal bouquet. They are fun and cute, and have endless options when combined with fabrics such as felt and ribbon. Check out the beautiful bouquet below, made by Princess Lasertron. These are heirloom quality pieces, and can be made to match your wedding theme & style.

4) Pinwheels

Pin-wheels are a fun and whimsical creation to hold in place of a floral bouquet on your wedding day. These lightweight creations will undoubtedly unleash your entire bridal party’s inner child! Not only are they a unique alternative, they are cost effective as well! Check out Rule 42 for beautiful custom made pinwheels (they also do boutonnieres, corsages, hair clips and cake toppers).

5) Feathers

There’s no question that feathers and weddings are one hot combination! Like flowers, feathers offer a natural decor option but without the hefty price tag. Sensual and elegant, these feather bouquets are perfect for the sexy and stylish bride who is always on trend! Emplume is a great online retailer that carries a variety of these modern and couture bouquets.

Whatever alternative bouquet you choose, carry out your choice to other decor items in your wedding. A centerpiece, boutonnieres, even guest favors – the sky’s the limit! You can rest assured that these beautiful and unique pieces are forever keepsakes that can be passed down for future generations!

Happy planning!

Adeline S.
Wedding Consultant

Planning the Honeymoon

2010-12-15T15:54:00.001-07:00

You're about to become a Mrs. congratulations! Even though your wedding day comes and goes in a flash, you still get to enjoy a honeymoon with the love of your life! There are many romantic and beautiful locations all over the world. Try somewhere neither of you have ever been, or take you're significant other to one of you're favorite places. Whether you are looking for lazy walks under the moonlit Effiel Tower, or days of endless exploring in Asia, it's time to kick off those beautiful Louboutin wedding pumps and relax with your new husband in the perfect honeymoon.

Below are my top 3 choices of where to go on your honeymoon:

1. The Bahamas
How about the Honeymoon capital of the world? The Bahamas is romantic and beautiful. In the Bahamas you relax while sitting on the beautiful beaches during the day, sunbathing by the pool, snorkeling, or splashing around in the ocean. Nassau/ Paradise Island is my recommendation there are many attractions right outside of your resort, check out the link for more details. One thing to keep in mind is that only some of Bahamas is all inclusive, many areas are on the European Plan, which doesn't include beverages and food. If you are looking for all inclusive please be sure to check with your travel agent before booked so you are not surprised by a bill at the end of your stay.

2. Mexico
Mexico is such a vibrant choice for honeymooners. The beaches are beautiful and there are so many attractions. Where to go in Mexico? I love Puerto Vallarta because they people are so friendly and there is lots of shopping, bars, tours, etc available. It is great for the couple who want to get out and about during their honeymoon. Los Cabos is also a perfect place to go, it is super hot and the weather is known to be great year round, so if you and your fiancée are sun worshipers this is the place for you! A fabulous hotel to check out is the Westin, shown in the picture below. Tulum is also a treasure to visit with lots of history behind it, including the Mayan Ruins. Of course you can go to other favorites like Cancun and/or Playa Del Carmen. Mexico has lots to offer and almost all the resorts are all inclusive, making it simple for you to pack your bathing suit and sunscreen and your ready to go.

3. Europe
Next I would have to choose Europe. There are so many countries to see but of course I would recommended Paris, France. Could there be anything more romantic than standing atop the Eiffel Tower overlooking the city of lights with the love of your life. If you are looking to make an adventure out of your honeymoon you could include a few more stops along the way Italy, Greece, Amsterdam and Germany would be a memorable additions. A great way way to see a many different countries in Europe in a short amount of time would be to Contiki Tours, they are famous for offering a great experience.

A Few More Tips
- When planning your honeymoon remember to check the weather of the destination your planning to visit to make sure it will be nice when you go, it would be tragic to show up dreaming of white sand and blue water, and be locked inside the hotel because there is a hurricane raging outside (true story, it happened to a friend of mine)
- Also look into various tours and activities available at your destination of choice, before going on your honeymoon, it will relive the stress of trying to find something to do, making a decision you are both happy with and eliminate the possibility of not being able to afford all the things you want to do once you get there.
- Tan before you get there! Especially if you live in Calgary where sun is a highly sought after but rarely found. If you are going somewhere south of the border the sun rays are much stronger there and if your skin does not at least have a base tan it will burn very quickly. I had friends who went to Hawaii on their honeymoon, they had not tanned before they went and he ended up burning the entire back half of his body so back he could not bend his legs. THe worst part is this happened on the first day, so he spent the rest of his time lying on his stomach in the hotel room while his new wife applied cold towels and aloe vera to the back of his legs. So again...tan before you go!
- If you are planning on going somewhere a little more exotic, check if there are any vaccinations you will need to get to be allowed to enter the country you are travelling to. You can contact Calgary Travel Clinic and they will be able to tell you what you will need and administer the vaccinations.
- Many times you will need to present your marriage certificate when travelling, most often a marriage certificate is provided by the church or officiant at the ceremony, but do double check that one is provided and if it is not ask that one will be. Also, make sure to delegate someone to pick it up before leaving the ceremony and getting it to you before leaving the country. This is not a government document but will provide sufficient proof that you are married should that come into question any time in your travels. If you do want a government issued certificate, you may apply for one to get sent to you at your local registry, but you can only do that after your signed marriage licence has been received by the government, which will take a few weeks at least.

Happy Planning & Bon Voyage,

Monica W

Wedding Consultant

Winter Wedding Makeup

2010-12-08T11:02:00.000-07:00

Your winter wedding is coming up. And whether your day is coming quickly, or seems like it won’t ever come, there is one thing your mind will continuously think of; your winter wedding make up. Should you keep a simply fresh face, or are you looking to make a dramatic entrance with cranberry red lipstick? This season brings endlessly classic options for your wedding make up. I looked long and hard for great tips to share, and found my best option was talking to a professional make up artist in the wedding industry.
Kyla Loewen is just that woman. She locally owns and operates her own make up artistry profession here in Calgary, and has vigorously participated in the Wedding Make Up Industry for over four years now. Her two years working for MAC has also taught her so much about make up color application. Kyla graduated from Artists Within School of Make up and received her Diploma in Makeup Artistry and Hair Design to make sure her passion and love for make up was met with professional education. Combining her talent, education, and diverse experience in Calgary wedding make up, it’s no wonder I went straight to her for winter wedding tips!

First things first; Calgary is a dry, dry winter city. To avoid your skin looking tired and dull you need to moisturize! A great daily moisturizer which doubles as a five minute mask for those extra dry skin types is Moisture Surge by Clinique. If you have sensitive, prone to acne skin type, try ProActiv’s Oil Free Moisturizer with SPF 15.

On such a busy and exciting day, you will want to make sure your face stays put, so consider using one of these amazing primer’s to keep your make up where it belongs! ARBONNE or MAC have some of the best primer's in the market.One of Kyla’s biggest tip for foundation is to use a medium to full coverage foundation to even out skin tone and show off a flawless face. In this beautiful winter season, you will want the foundation more matte than dewy to be camera ready. A transparent powder such as Makeup Forever- HD Transparent powder is a fantastic finishing touch, and helps to blur out fine lines!

During this winter season, you’ll want to take full advantage of the breathtakingly beautiful blushing cheeks. Instead of using bronzer, embrace a bright blush for the apples of the cheeks to add shape to the face and not get lost in the winter white. “Use caution in your colors” says Kyla. “Rather than matching your makeup colors with your wedding colors, try to simply use the same tones in your lipstick, blush, and shadows”.

Berry shades are a classic color palate for winter weddings. Experiment different berry shades of lip color while using a matching lip liner to create an all day wear.

To finish your look, ensure you remember to shape and fill your eyebrows with an eye shadow which matches your hair color by using an angled brush. Then use classic black eyeliner and ultra black lashes to really define your sophisticated look. If you are really looking for a dramatic look, ask Kyla about her certification in Eyelash Extension Applications! When you are choosing your eye colors, try to stay away from those “New Years Eve” glittery shadows, and find more of a satin shadow to really highlight your stunning eyes.

As much as I love playing with makeup, I would never want to take a gamble on my wedding day! Whether you choose softer shades of berry blush, or really dramatize your look with eyelash extensions and bright red lips, the winter season provides a fabulous season for classic winter wedding make up. If you have any other questions seek the help of a professional; Kyla Loewen.

Happy Planning you beautiful bride,

Deanna M

Bridal Assistant

Winter Wedding

2010-11-24T11:00:00.002-07:00

The weather outside may be frightful, but warm winter weddings are so delightful! Winter can be the most romantic time of year with the ground covered by a glistening blanket of snow, sparkling icicles hanging from trees and lighting reflecting off frozen ponds.

This winter wonderland effect doesn’t just have to be outdoors. Why not bring it inside as well? Winter décor has endless options of colour and trimmings. Imagine a modern romantic feel with silvers and icy blues. Decorate your guest tables with silver table linens garnished with steel blue napkins that are accessorized with diamond napkin rings. Picture the crystal ware shimmering from the candle votive placed around the tables that also give a warm feeling.You can rent all these fabulous pieces at http://calgaryspecialeventrentals.com/ To complete the mood use crystal vase centerpieces filled with fake snow, white covered branches and crystal icicles placed in middle of each table. For those final touches arrange blue spotlights around the room and even have an ice carving on your buffet table.

If you are more of the classic bride than I have one word for you. Red. Nothing says winter romance more than white and red. Most of us instantly imagine red and white roses, which are lovely, but why not surprise your guests with something a little different and unique. Adding peonies or hydrangeas with a touch of baby’s breath to your centerpieces along with large trees wrapped in white lights to give off that romantic and festive feel. Lighting creates the perfect ambiance for a setting such as this. Add some hanging lights to signify snowflakes from the ceiling along with the tree lights and you have the feeling of a beautiful outdoor scene.

Add some final extra touches to perfect the mood. Serve hot chocolate or add a twist with eggnog and rum during cocktail hour to warm up your guests. Give out pretty wrapped chocolate snowballs tied with a mini satin scarf for your favours.

Now that you have the perfect indoor setting, where can you hold your winter wonderland Silvertip Resort is a fitting venue less than an hour and a half away from Calgary. You can say your vows in front of a panoramic mountain landscape with frosted trees all around you.

Have your heart set on a dress with just straps or even strapless? Get it! Embellish your gown with a dramatic coat or faux fur wrap. It’ll be like having two wedding outfits. Add a diamond tiara with some white satin gloves and you are now a snow princess on a perfect day marrying your prince charming.

White winters provide the perfect setting for a beautiful and romantic wedding. Using this season will bring the advantage of so many different options for decor, venues, and attire. Whatever you decide, I'm confident your winter wedding will warm you, your fiancee, and honored guests to the core!

Happy Planning,

Cheryl G.

Wedding Consultant

Planning A Fairytale Wedding

2010-11-17T11:06:00.000-07:00

The announcement of Prince William and Kate Middleton’s engagement this week is huge news for royal followers the world over. After all, who doesn’t love a royal wedding? And who doesn’t envision their own fairytale ending?! While William and Kate’s wedding budget may far surpass your own, you don’t have to be a real princess to have your own legendary and regal day. Here’s how:

The Venue

Selecting an appropriate venue is a huge aspect in creating a fairytale theme. An old church, mansion, or even a castle (Banff Springs anyone?) are worthy options. The Knox United Church, for example, is located in the heart of downtown Calgary and is one of the most established and beautiful buildings in the city. For your reception, think grand ballrooms, a curved staircase and crystal chandeliers. The Fairmont Palliser suits this description to a tee, and has been creating fairytale weddings for nearly a century.

The Gown
It’s all about the gown! No princess would dream about getting married without the perfect dress. Make sure yours is spot on with a flattering silhouette that compliments your personality. Detailing like lace, pearls, beading or feathers will help transform you into the modern princess you are. And don’t forget accessories! A cathedral veil held in place with a beautiful tiara is sure to capture the heart of your handsome prince at the altar. Add some elegant long gloves and your princess look is complete! When you book an appointment at The Bridal Centre you will get booked into one of their private Princess Rooms, and have your own bridal consultant to give you one on one attention to complete your experience.

The Music

Music is a wonderful way to get guests in the mood for a royal day. Hire a string quartet for the ceremony, and continue the graceful melodies into your cocktail hour. Bel Canto Strings is a great local strings group, you can hire a trio or a quartet. Of course, no regal wedding would be complete without a royal waltz. Waltzing across the polished ballroom floors in your beautiful gown will without doubt make you feel like you belong at court. If you and your fiancee are not as light on your feet as you would like you can book a few first dance lessons at Dance Energy here in Calgary and they will choreograph a dance for you to your choice of song to take you from the Jr. High shuffle to a regular Fred and Ginger.

The Decor

Choosing the right colours for your special day also has a huge impact on the ambiance you are trying to create. For a stately affair to remember, bold jewel tones are in order. Deep purples, ruby reds, sapphire blues and emerald greens are ideal. Gold or silver accents will make these jewel tones pop in your decor. You can use the online tool Colour Lovers to create your palette to see what your choices will look like together.

The Transportation
Why not leave in style following your fairytale wedding? A horse drawn carriage with appropriately suited driver is the perfect ending for your perfect day. In Calgary you can contact Calgary Mountain Tours to book your white horse and carriage!

You don’t have to be Cinderella or even Kate Middleton to pull off your own Royal Wedding. Be yourself, get creative, and follow these simple steps to get there. And remember, the best part is that you actually found your Prince Charming!

Happy Planning,

Adeline S.

Wedding Consultant

3rd Annual Wedding Industry Wine and Cheese

2010-11-12T10:30:00.003-07:00

On November 3rd Reflections Wedding Designs was proud to host our 3rd Annual Wedding Industry Wine and Cheese. This event was started to encourage the wedding community to come together for an evening to mingle, share stories, celebrate the end of another successful wedding season, enjoy a few drinks and appetizers and of course win some fabulous prizes!

Every year the Bridal Fantasy show has generously offered to donate a 10X10 booth for one lucky guest and this year was no exception. The added bonus this year was that there was also a prize of a 1/3 page ad in the Bridal Fantasy Magazine. This year the winners were Garry Hennan of Calgary Sound winning the booth and Holly Lehbauer of The Lily Pad winning the ad!

This year's event was held at the beautiful historical Lougheed House. Guest were free to take a tour of the house and take in all the fantastic architecture and vintage decor, as well as pay a visit to the art gallery in the basement.

Appetizers were provided by Kerri Murray from the Lougheed House Restaurant and thoroughly enjoyed by all, I would have to say my favourite was the roasted red pepper and goat's cheese canape!

This year we had a little something special to present to everyone. In September Reflections has take on 3 new consultants and the evening provided an opportunity for them to meet the people they would be working with and to showcase their final project table designs. If you were not able to make it out for the evening we would like to introduce you to each of them. Stay tuned to see each of their bios and information to be posted on our website in the next few weeks.

Adeline Schickedanz and her vintage inspired table

Cheryl Grant and her Coco Chanel inspired table

Monica Watson and her night at the movies inspired table

I think each of the ladies did a wonderful job on their tables and it was fascinating to see the variations they came up with while still all using the same colour pallet!

We are excited about the opportunities to use each of our new consultants in their area of expertise and be able to match our brides with a style and personality that will suite them, and their wedding perfectly to result in a wedding that truly reflects each couple in every detail.

A special thanks goes out to Modern Petals for providing the ladies with the flowers for their tables, Special Event Rentals for the decor, and The Social Page for the stationary. Terence Law of TLaw Photography was our talented photographer for the evening and Garry Hennan of Calgary Sound provided the music to set the tone for the night.

From all of us at Reflections Wedding Designs we thank you for coming out and enjoying an evening with us, and for those of you who were not able to make it, we missed you and we hope to see you next year!

Here's a few more photos for your viewing pleasure!

Adeline, Deanna, Jasmine, Cheryl and Monica

Planning Your Bachelorette Party

2010-11-03T11:16:00.042-06:00

Since women didn’t start having stagette parties until the sexual revolution in the 1960’s, its no wonder these parties are a big to-do! Your bride’s stagette party should be a fun night with her closest friends to celebrate the end of singledom, and the joys to come in her newly married life. As these parties are always planned by her bridal party and closest friends, it's important you think of her personality, and plan something she would love. Here is a variety of ideas to make sure you have a great time.

1) Location, Location, Location

Where do you have your stagette? If you are looking for an outrageously fun night on the town, consider hosting the night at your favorite bar or pub. A very entertaining evening in the soul of Calgary, Inglewood, would be heading to a burlesque show, Carly's Angels. Another great idea is Aussie Rules, duelling pianos are incredibly fun. Perhaps you want the nightlife, but not in the heart of Calgary. When in doubt you can always head out to Banff or Canmore, the best bars in Banff are Aurora and Hoodoo.

If you prefer to settle your nerves before the big day, consider some of these low key, more intimate suggestions. Passion Parties are a wild way of staying in, and are easily hosted in someone's house. Why not head out to Kelowna and do a wine tasting weekend with the girls! There are many tours that offer transportation and they take you to sereral different wineries. Check out Discover Okanagan Tours for more information. Do you and your friends enjoy the mountains and snow? Why not check out Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Fernie, Lake Louise or Panorama Mountain Village, these are just a few of the options you can use for your ski weekend, they all have chalets right on the hill.

2) Transportation

Whether you feel like heading to a couple bars, going out to dinner before heading out, or even a spa day before dinner and drinks, look into limo or party bus so that you have a safe drive around and it's a great way for everyone to be together. Blue Sky Limos has great options available.

3) Accommodations

After a fun night out with the girls it would be nice to have a slumber party, just like old times! I recommend looking into various hotels with larger rooms or chalets. Tunnel Mountain in Banff is great for a group, they can accommodate up to 8 people in their chalets.

4) Fun and Games

Why not play some games while you're staying in? Some great group games that result in lots of laughs (especially when paired with some wine) are Mad Gab, Charades and Pictionary. If you want a game while you're out on the town, another favourite is creating a list of tasks that the bride will need to complete before the end of the night. There are many great game ideas on websites such as Bachelorette Party Games.

While planning your event be sure the bride feels completely safe and comfortable with all the activities and games and that her husband to be will be respected. If you are considering a spa day, weekend getaway or a party that is going to have a significant cost to it, be sure to speak with the guests and confirm that everyone that the bride would like to have at her celebration is comfortable with the costs involved.

While Reflections specializes in weddings, we would be happy to help you plan your spectacular exit from the single life!

Happy Planning,

Monica W.

Bridal Consultant

Wedding Invitations

2010-10-27T10:57:00.009-06:00

"Fill your paper with breathings of your heart."
William Wordsworth

When it comes to your wedding, the beginning is marked with the breathings of your heart on paper. Wedding invitations are a stunning way to show your guests your appreciation for both their continued love, and warm welcome to join you as you begin your newly married life! There is a lot to go over with wedding invitations, so today we’ll begin with the invitation design & layout, and you’ll need to stay tuned in the weeks to come for how to perfectly word your invites!

Set the tone for your wedding with the design and layout of the invite. Include your wedding décor, colors, the level of formality, and theme. If your wedding showcases the utmost formality, you may want to consider the entire package. Start with an outer envelope and go as far as choosing a colored or designed envelope and mailing labels. Because of the formality of your wedding, you will want an invitation which includes inserts for your response card, reception card, and map of directions to your venues. Also include a self addressed envelope inside your invitation so your guests may respond whether they are, or are not able to make it. If your wedding is less formal, or informal, most of these elements can be included on a single sheet, as well, consider a contact number or email for your RSVP’s!

Next, you will need to consider the feel of your wedding. Are you having a rustic wedding incorporating luscious greens and browns? Consider an invite which speaks to natures best elements; trees and birds. Let the wording fall simple and sweet on the page, inviting your guests to a more relaxed wedding. Perhaps your wedding is vintage infused elegance. Against your nude card stock with a black sketched chandelier draping down the left side, use a nude colored lace around your bi-fold invite, with romantic red text.

Making invitations could be a great bonding experience for your bridal party, and bring much satisfaction of a job well done! If you decide to embark on the journey of making your own invitations, remember to look at all the stationary product you will need to create a single, or bi-fold invitation, and well as how to create inserts if necessary. Be sure to check out Stampin’ Up for all the product you may need to purchase.

If you’d rather the professionals handle the job, a few local stores in Calgary would exceed your expectations. If you are looking simply for the wedding invitations & unique thank you cards such as CD covers, Box Paper Scissors is a fantastic find in Kensington. If you would like to consider having your invitations, table seating, and thank you cards done all in the same place, The Social Page is your best bet! With either option you will find caring people who want to make your words look exceptionally beautiful.

Invitations have the possibility of setting the tone for your entire day, so be sure to choose what speaks best of you and your fiancée’s personality and style. Regardless of the design, your invitation is going to be such a warm welcome for your guests to prepare for the best celebration of love!
Happy Planning,

Deanna M
Bridal Personal Assistant

Eco-friendly wedding

2010-10-20T11:00:00.003-06:00

It's a Nice Day for a Green Wedding!

Creating an eco-friendly wedding is such a stylish and trendy way to celebrate your big day! What’s even better is the positive impact you’re making to our environment (and we applaud you!). Here are a few great suggestions on how you can have a unique wedding while contributing to the environment.

1) Let’s start with your invitations. Your invite speaks so much about who you are as a person. If you are computer savvy, why not save the paper all together and make an online invite. Show your guests your love for the environment by using 100% recycled, or even hand-made paper! Conveniently located in Calgary, Crackle Custom Invitations is committed to being eco-friendly. They use acid free natural paper, and power their business by wind power!

2) Calgary has endless options for beautiful summer & fall weddings. Consider having an outdoor ceremony at sunset; light the aisles with either Tiki Torches or natural bees wax candles. Not only is it environmentally friendly, it creates a very whismy romantic feel to your day. If the weather has you planning for an indoor wedding, look for venues that are part of the Green Keys Program.

3) Oh the floral possibilities! Have you ever considered making your reception green with locally grown, organic flowers? Many Calgary florists such as Modern Petals are eco-friendly and stunning. Decorate with edible arrangements on your tables.They aren’t just for looks either! Or how about flower bulbs or herbs to give your guests as favors. You could plant a tree in honor of your guest too. Another great idea is to make a donation in lieu of party favors. Go to I Do Foundation to learn more.

4) Don’t forget to recycle after the party is over. One way is to have stylish “I Do Recycle” bins for napkins, menu cards and more. If you are an artistic person this would be a great project!

5) Transportation is fundamental in a wedding. Perhaps in your invitation, you can suggest carpooling for your guests. If you are planning an outdoor celebration, why not take your first wedded ride on a Tandem bicycle! Not only is this great for the environment; think of the great photos you can have. Another beautiful mode of transportation is horse and carriage. Call Mountain Carriage Tour Co. at (403)242-9796 for more info and options.

There are so many more ways to be eco-friendly on your wedding day. From using mineral makeup, choosing a dress made from organic or unbleached materials, to choosing jewelry made from recycled gold. With so many choices out there it’s hard not to make your special day a green one too!

Happy Planning,

Cheryl G.

Wedding Consulatant