Katherine Nelson, Author at Weddingbells

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Gala by Galia Lahav Fall 2020 Wedding Dresses

Fashion & Beauty » Wedding Dresses

Posted October 21st, 2019 | 11:32 am | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

In creating Gala’s ninth collection, head designers Galia Lahav and Sharon Sever wanted to harness the magic, freedom and emotion of the sea. Inspired by a mermaid’s eternal free spirit and unparalleled beauty, Gala’s latest collection is meant to empower modern brides to express their unique style on their wedding day.

In this collection, enchanting off the shoulder bodices and body-contouring waistlines are meant to evoke the silhouette of a mesmerizing mermaid. The ethereal gowns come in a range of captivating metallics and delicate blushes that resemble the multicoloured scales of beautiful underwater creatures and the hues of precious coral. Gorgeous fabrics including a chiffon-like netting and layers of soft tulle are embellished with intricate beading and sequins to resemble sparkling droplets of water reflecting the sun. The collection also plays with movement, featuring flowing sleeves that mimic the waves of the ocean. Delicate and graceful, Gala’s new sea-inspired gowns are perfect for the whimsical, destination-wedding bride.

David’s Bridal Spring 2020 Wedding Dresses

Fashion & Beauty » Wedding Dresses

Posted October 21st, 2019 | 10:53 am | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

David’s Bridal recently released its Spring 2020 collection, which includes looks from David’s Bridal Collection, DB Studio, Galina Signature, Melissa Sweet and Oleg Cassini. With diverse options ranging from traditional tulle ball gowns to contemporary bridal jumpsuits, the store’s signature lines cater to all kinds of brides.

This season, top trends for the budget-friendly, size-inclusive collection include elegant and minimalist gowns, hand-sewn beading and alternate silhouettes.

David’s Bridal

DB Studio

Galina Signature

Melissa Sweet

Watters Fall 2020 Wedding Dresses

Fashion & Beauty » Wedding Dresses

Posted October 21st, 2019 | 10:32 am | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

Watters is known for her stylish yet practical designs for the modern bride, and the dresses from the line’s fall 2020 line are no different. The gorgeous collection, calledd “Sunset in Rose,” was inspired by the soft light of sunset and the romance of delicate, feminine lingerie. The variety of minimalist gowns featured in this contemporary collection play on the imagination with clean lines and raw-yet-refined designs. Minimalist slip dresses and elegant ball gowns are enhanced with beaded embroidery, tulle and lace. The timeless and versatile new creations from Watters are perfect for today’s effortless bride.

A Bright, Airy Floral-Filled Wedding in Toronto

Real Weddings

Posted October 18th, 2019 | 5:16 pm | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

On a cold, snowy night in 2017, Brad convinced a reluctant Kara to join him while he took their dogs out for a walk. On their walk, Brad brought up a conversation they had earlier about proposals. “Getting engaged seemed like light years away, but I indulged,” Kara shares. “I explained that I wanted something intimate and added that he should talk to his mom about it beforehand to calm his nerves.” Behind her, Kara heard Brad quietly say, “Really? I don’t feel that nervous right now…” As she turned around to ask him what he meant, Brad pulled a ring box out of his pocket. “He went on to say a bunch of lovely romantic things, none of which I heard because I immediately went deaf and just kept yelling ‘Is this a joke?!’ over and over again,” Kara recalls.

For their wedding colours, Kara and Brad chose a neutral theme of white, blush and grey with lots of greenery mixed in. “We wanted to keep the space looking bright and airy,” Kara explains. “The blush brought in a touch of softness and femininity, and the greenery contrasted with an earthy, natural feel.” Hints of gold were also found throughout the decor to tie everything together.

Above all, Kara and Brad’s favourite decor detail was their flowers. “I went back and forth a lot, and really had no prior knowledge of flowers,” Kara shares. “From our wedding arch and the table garland to the exact hue of rose I wanted, Rikki Marcone was able to turn my very vague vision into reality. Our florals were simple, romantic and fresh.” Another favourite detail was their naked, watercolour-styled wedding cake. “We wanted a naked cake, however I had seen a post that Andrea of Sweet Sister Chic Sister had done of a beautiful watercolour-styled floral cake,” Kara explains. “Andrea was able to incorporate both designs into our cake and it turned out beautifully, not to mention delicious. We were floored!”

For Kara and Brad, their first look was the most memorable moment of their special day. “We were both so nervous the morning of the wedding,” Kara recalls. “Being able to see each other before the ceremony, though still very surreal and emotional, definitely helped calm our nerves.”

Kara Alfonso and Brad Vivian, September 8, 2018, Toronto, Ontario.

Photography courtesy of Paula Visco Photography.

Vendors
Venue: 99 Sudbury (Permanently Closed)
Caterer: Food Dudes
Wedding co-ordinator & flowers: Rikki Marcone Events
Bridal gown: Rime Arodaky from The Mews Bridal
Bridesmaid gowns: Park and Fifth
Groom’s tux: Suitsupply
Hair & makeup: Judy Lim
Cake & favours: Sweet Sister Chic Sister
Stationery: Minted
Calligraphy: Madelaine Calanza
Music: Sole Power Productions
Officiant: Nancy Doukas
Videography: Solely Love

A Modern Hacienda Hipster Wedding in Toronto

Real Weddings

Posted October 16th, 2019 | 1:12 pm | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

Jess and Nate met while studying at Queen’s University, where Jess lived in a house with Nate’s friends. “Nate would often come over to the house to hang out with the guys,” Jess recalls. “Eventually, it became apparent that he was just coming over to hang out with me.” The pair began their relationship with a six-week backpacking trip across Spain after graduation. “We haven’t stopped exploring the world together since,” the couple shares. On an impromptu weekend trip to Ireland, Jess was surprised when their taxi rolled up to the stunning 800-year-old Ashford Castle instead of the Airbnb Nate said he booked. In the walled garden of the castle, Nate got down on one knee and proposed to Jess after 11 years together.

For their wedding venue, Jess and Nate chose Baro because of its hacienda-hipster feel. “We wanted to embrace the Latin-inspired food served at the venue and have the feeling of a big family gathering,” the pair explains. The couple incorporated clean and modern decor elements to match the venue’s atmosphere, including greenery and string lights hung from the ceiling.

Early on in the planning process, Jess told her mom that their wedding wouldn’t be beautiful, but it would be hip. “She misunderstood and told the whole family I was having a “hip-hop” wedding,” Jess recalls. Although the bride corrected her mother, this didn’t stop her best friend from rapping her entire speech to “Gangsta’s Paradise.” “She’s the only person I know who has received a standing ovation for a wedding speech,” Jess shares. “It was a total mic-drop moment!”

“We aimed to have more of a party than a wedding,” Jess and Nate explain. After dinner, the reception party moved to Escobar, a nightclub located downstairs from the venue. “It was chill, raw, hip and had just the right amount of couches and tables for us to dance on,” the couple shares. At midnight, the couple surprised their guests with a late-night McDonalds delivery to the club. The pair gave their DJ 10 must-play old school hip hop songs and told him of Jess’ habit of constantly changing radio songs. “He nailed it,” the newlyweds share. “Guests were asking for the soundtrack to our wedding!”

Jessica Khuat and Nathan Roth, September 2, 2018, Toronto, Ontario.

Photography courtesy of Barb Simkova of Tara McMullen Photography.

Vendors
Venue & caterer: The Loft & Escobar at Baro
Wedding planner: Nagham Cararah of Love by Lynzie
Bridal gown: Marchesa
Hair: Jen Evoy
Makeup: Karen Kim
Groom’s tux: Kent Wang
Flowers: Stok Floral & Design
Cake: Momofuku Milkbar
Stationery: Minted
Favours: Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society
Music: DJ Lexx of Spectrum Agency

A Romantic Great Gatsby-Inspired Wedding in Toronto

Real Weddings

Posted October 14th, 2019 | 2:00 pm | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

Micaela and Joel’s love story began at a local restaurant in 2002. “We were sitting a few tables across from each other and made eye contact,” Micaela explains. “Finally, our friends took initiative and introduced us.” On Micaela’s birthday in 2017, Joel surprised her with a trip to a jewelry store. When they arrived, he asked her to pick out a ring. “Simple and sweet, that day marked our official engagement,” Micaela remembers fondly.

Micaela and Joel envisioned an elegant and romantic wedding. The couple booked Toronto’s Windsor Arms Hotel as their venue. “The hotel has a very sophisticated look, rich in character and detail, with a Great Gatsby feel,” Micaela shares. For their wedding day colours, Micaela and Joel chose black, ivory and gold to complement their old-school venue. To enhance the hotel’s beauty, the couple decided to incorporate an abundance of florals and candles in their decor. “Our wedding planner Roxy and her team put so much effort into executing our vision, seeing the decor for the first time took our breath away,” the couple remarks.

For Micaela and Joel, the cake was a very important element of their wedding. The couple worked with their cake designer and wedding planner to create the perfect cake that would complement their decor. “We chose a five-tier ivory cake that was decorated with a fine lace wrapping on each tier. Flowers cascaded along the top to the bottom to match the florals that we had designed for our wedding,” Micaela shares. “It was a masterpiece!” Another custom wedding element was the bride’s gown by Whyte Couture. “After an endless journey of disappointment trying to find the perfect dress, I realized a custom gown was the answer,” Micaela explains. “The second I put on my dress, I was overwhelmed with emotion.”

For their wedding song, choosing “At Last” by Etta James was an easy decision. “After 16 years, we finally decided to get married,” Micaela shares. “The moment that the first words ‘At Last’ filled our venue, we thought, ‘The day has come–we are officially husband and wife!'”

Micaela Aguiar and Joel Vieira, November 3, 2018, Toronto, Ontario.

Photography courtesy of Richard Emmanuel.

Vendors
Venue & caterer: Windsor Arms Hotel
Wedding planner & flowers: Roxy Zapala
Bridal gown: Whyte Couture
Bridesmaid gowns: White Toronto
Hair & makeup: Corrie Elle Artistry
Groom’s tux: Arcade Men’s Shop
Cake: Patricia’s Cake Creations
Stationery: Ivorie Paperie
Favours: Succulent Chocolates and Sweets
Music: Impact DJ, GTA Strings

A Gorgeous, Modern Hunt Club Wedding in Toronto

Real Weddings

Posted October 11th, 2019 | 11:11 am | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

Tom and Christina met at a house party in 2014. The pair remained acquaintances before they went on their first date the following year. “Since then, we’ve been inseparable,” Christina shares. True to his relaxed personality, Tom asked Christina to marry him on the balcony of their Toronto condo. “We were in our ‘home’ clothes, a.k.a. loungewear,” Christina recalls. “Tom said, “You know I love you to bits, right?” Next thing I knew he was down on one knee and there was a ring in front of me,” the bride remarks.

Tom and Christina did not choose a specific “theme” for their wedding day. “I don’t like the matchy-matchy look,” Christina explains. Overall, the couple’s goal was to create a classic and simplistic vibe for their guests. “Coming up with table numbers for the reception was a challenge,” Christina recalls. “The only “theme” that made sense to us was pubs and restaurants, since we eat out a lot,” the bride notes. In place of numbers, each table’s motif was based on a pub or restaurant known to the guests at that specific table. “In the end it was a lot of fun and everyone loved it,” Christina shares.

There were two details that were important to Tom and Christina on their special day. First, was the bride’s bouquet of white roses. “Florist Lauren Sellen created the most classic, minimalist bouquet that looked modern from every angle,” Christina shares. Another special element was a nod to Tom’s Irish heritage. “Our friend Zach Hornblow is a jewellery designer, so he custom-made Tom’s Guinness harp cufflinks in sterling silver,” the bride explains.

After the entrance of the bridal party, local musician and busker Jordan Hart serenaded the couple and their guests with a performance. “The live music really got the crowd going before dinner,” Christina notes. At the rave-like reception, the DJ played a remix of Ed Sheeran’s “Castle on the Hill.” “All our friends and family were jumping up and down around us,” the bride shares. “It was like time stood still. That song became the anthem of our wedding.”

Christina Gonzales and Tomas Crowe, September 20, 2018, Toronto, Ontario.

Photography courtesy of Danijela Gorley.

Vendors
Venue & caterer: The Toronto Hunt
Wedding planner: Grace Barbosa-Chin
Flowers: Coyote Flowers
Bridal gown: Mikaella Bridal from Ferré Sposa
Hair: Morgan Lovely Hair
Makeup: Erin Winn
Groom’s suit: Indochino
Cake: Cherry Cakes
Stationery: Minted
Music: Duo D’amore, Carlo Suarez and Jordan Hart

Galia Lahav Fall 2020 Wedding Dresses

Fashion & Beauty » Wedding Dresses

Posted October 10th, 2019 | 11:18 am | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

Galia Lahav recently debuted its Fall 2020 collection of couture bridal gowns. Inspired by the beauty that comes from within, this brilliant new line is meant to celebrate a woman’s individuality with unique options for modern brides looking to make an entrance. Model Valentina Sampaio, admired for her confidence in becoming Victoria Secret’s first openly transgender model, shines as the face of the new collection.

The fall 2020 bridal collection features an array of romantic shapes, such as A-line, mermaid, and ballgown, which have been modified to be voluminous yet soft and flowy. The dreamy gowns come in subtle hues of ivory, blush and lavender that are enhanced with intricate silver embroidery. On different layers, delicate lace peeks through light-as-air tulle, silk or organza adorned with reflective finishes including beads and rhinestones. According to the brand, each layer of these elaborate gowns tell a story, much like each layer of a woman’s personality tells her story.

Danielle Frankel Fall 2020 Wedding Dresses

Fashion & Beauty » Wedding Dresses

Posted October 10th, 2019 | 10:45 am | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

Since launching in 2017, Danielle Frankel’s label has been dedicated to designing comfortable yet chic wedding day options for the modern bride, including crop tops and pantsuits. This season, Frankel’s collection was inspired by different vintage elements: photographs of fishermen from the 1920s, antique lingerie techniques and a sterling silver belt her great-great grandfather gifted her grandmother in 1930s Mexico. Among Frankel’s newest bridal styles are belted coats, mini dresses, bustiers, overskirts and pantsuits. Neutral satins and silks are used throughout the collection, appearing in the form of gold pants and slip dresses. According to Frankel, these vintage-inspired designs are made for women who would steal their mother’s vintage gloves to wear with a new dress from a boutique. This juxtaposition of luxury and thrift, old and new embodies Frankel’s contemporary 2020 collection.

Ines Di Santo Fall 2020 Wedding Dresses

Fashion & Beauty » Wedding Dresses

Posted October 9th, 2019 | 5:06 pm | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

Ines di Santo unveiled her 2020 fall bridal collection, titled “Under the Impression”—an ode to the Impressionist art movement and its focus on colour, texture, light and transparency. The couture gowns feature dramatic ruffles, illusion necklines, detachable trains and corset bodices embellished with hand painted silk flowers, 3D beading and intricate butterfly embroidery.

At the fashion show, the designer also debuted her footwear collaboration with luxury Italian shoe brand Bruno Magli. The stiletto heels featured in this collection are made with traditional textures such as tulle, chiffon, embroidery and lace combined with Italian leather in a variety of colours, ranging from subtle blush to rich red tones. The shoe collection showcases the perfect union between contemporary bridal design and traditional Italian craftsmanship.

Berta Fall 2020 Wedding Dresses

Fashion & Beauty » Wedding Dresses

Posted October 9th, 2019 | 3:48 pm | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

Luxury brand Berta has always been known for its bold, sexy silhouettes that incorporate vintage materials and retro details. Berta’s latest bridal couture collection features glamorous gowns that showcase what it means to be an elegant and confident bride.

Berta’s fall 2020 collection tells a story of arts and crafts, and as always, the fabrics are the focus of the collection. The new line features different patterns and combinations of fabrics with intricate embroideries and beadwork. While various new elements have been introduced into the line, the unique cuts and use of complex fabrics remain true to Berta’s artistic approach to high-end fashion. The sophisticated gowns in Berta’s latest line will beautifully complement the chic modern bride.

Laure de Sagazan Fall 2020 Wedding Dresses

Fashion & Beauty » Wedding Dresses

Posted October 9th, 2019 | 2:37 pm | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

Laure de Sagazan’s Fall 2020 bridal collection was inspired by the South of France. This season, the designer’s chic new designs evoke the feeling of the ‘à la mode’ French Riviera in the 1960’s.

Classic cap sleeves, ruffles and lace are a common theme found throughout the sophisticated collection. Minimalist shift and slip dresses are elevated with lace bodice and button back details, while high collar tops are enhanced with ruffles. More non-traditional looks include lace and linen overalls as well as a crop top and matching skirt combination embellished with lace scallop detail. Overall, de Sagazan’s new collection is perfect for the simple yet stylish bride.

Rime Arodaky Fall 2020 Wedding Dresses

Fashion & Beauty » Wedding Dresses

Posted October 8th, 2019 | 3:54 pm | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

Rime Arodaky showcased her Fall 2020 wedding dress collection called “Stardust” at this year’s Bridal Fashion Week. The Parisian designer’s newest collection features her signature whimsical gowns for the modern bride.

Statement silhouettes and oversized details are a common theme throughout this season’s contemporary looks. High-waisted crepe dresses with 3D embroidered tulle and butterfly sleeves are distinct features of the refreshing collection. Illusion necklines and open backs are another common theme found throughout the modern designs. Some styles even include minimalist crop-top and high-waisted skirt combinations accessorized with pocket and belt details, perfect for non-traditional brides.

Madeline Gardner Fall 2020 Wedding Dresses

Fashion & Beauty » Wedding Dresses

Posted October 8th, 2019 | 3:36 pm | By Katherine Nelson | No Comments

Designer Madeline Gardner, known for her ever-popular bridal brand Morilee, unveiled her new namesake line at this year’s Bridal Fashion Week. Inspired by the dynamic streets of New York City, the new line embraces timeless glamour and sophistication.

With cathedral trains and ornate embroideries, Madeline Gardner sets itself apart from Morilee by giving classic silhouettes an upscale touch. High fashion details include romantic laces, semi-sheer layering and subtle glitz. These haute designs are perfect for the elegant and glamorous bride looking to make a dramatic entrance.