When it comes to putting together your guest list, you’ll have to think of which friends and family you’ll be inviting. Are any of your close family members children? Do your close friends have children as well? If there are some kids you’ll be inviting, does that mean you’ll be extending the invite to the kids of other guests as well? Here are some things you need to consider before it comes to inviting kids to your wedding.
Kids can play an important role in your wedding If you already have kids, it’s more than likely that they’ll have a special role during your ceremony. However, if you and your partner aren’t parents and have junior bridal party roles to fill such as ring bearer or flower girl, you can consider asking young family members or family friends. Not only are they an adorable sight to see walking down the aisle, but it’s a great way to include your loved ones.
Do you know the kids well? If you’re well acquainted with the children in some families, you might consider this when thinking of whether or not to have children attend your wedding. If you’ve never met your friend’s kids, or aren’t particularly close with them, don’t feel obligated to extend the invite. Whatever your decision, ensure that you make it clear whether or not kids are invited through your invitation and save the date. Addressing your invitation to “The Smith Family” extends the invite to the entire family, including children, while “Mr. and Mrs. Roger and Martha Smith” specifies who is invited so there is no confusion.
Make special accommodations for kids Kids will likely need alternate meal options—a kid’s menu will help appease any picky eaters. It’s also helpful to include children’s activities to keep them busy such as colouring books or crafts.
At the end of the day it is your wedding. Your loved ones should be understanding and know that it is your decision to invite children to your wedding or not, and should respect that decision, regardless of whether or not they agree with it.
Patrick had to go with Plan B for his proposal to Jazz. Initially, he arranged an elaborate night of fireworks, a five course meal at a fine dining restaurant and champagne. However, the dinner took longer than expected, and the weather was so cold that the champagne froze into slush, so the night didn’t go as planned. But in the intimacy and warmth of their cozy home, he popped the question. “The moral of the story is, a Plan B is a great idea, but also letting things happen organically makes the experience uniquely yours,” Jazz shares.
For the bride, it was important to keep the wedding decor simple and elegant. She wanted the atmosphere to feel warm and relaxed yet sophisticated. To reflect this, she opted for tons of white flowers, lots of greenery, white lanterns, strings of fairy lights and candles to create a whimsical and magical ambiance. “It was vital for me that our guests feel surrounded by inspiring and inviting natural beauty,” Jazz says. “I focused on personalizing touches and details. It created an intimate and romantic setting that represented us.”
Throughout the wedding, there were multiple personal touches that made the day feel special. Patrick composed a song for Jazz to walk down the aisle to. “The number of hours and dedication he put into that piece was worth the wait!” she shares. Additionally, they had a personalized wax seal that stamped their marriage certificate, an engraved personalized ring box and hand-stitched handkerchiefs. The couple also hired an artist who painted a beautiful piece for them during cocktail hour for them to remember that special part of their day.
“Can’t Help Falling in Love With You” by Elvis Presley was the perfect song choice for the couple, as they wanted a romantic and classic song for the first dance. For the dance, Jazz’s father performed the piece on the acoustic guitar. “As a musician, his career, love and passion for music has had a huge impact on my life and is something my father and my husband really connect on,” Jacinthe shares. “I was thrilled to incorporate him this way on our wedding day.”
Jacinthe Gouin and Patrick Ippersiel, August 31, 2019, Sainte-Marthe, Quebec.
Michelle was certain that Gregory was going to propose on their trip in New Zealand. But she was in for the surprise of a lifetime. Before the trip, she was staying at a friend’s house in San Diego when one evening, Gregory called to ask her out after work. They went to Encinitas beach to see the sunset. “We walked down these old wooden steps and the view was stunning,” Michelle says. After she took a quick video of the scenery, she found Gregory down on one knee, asking her to marry him. “We ended up sitting there on the beach for the next two hours, just the two of us,” Michelle shares. “It didn’t feel real yet.”
In order to reflect the bride and groom’s outgoing and vibrant personalities, Michelle and Gregory went for a modern yet whimsical theme that was slightly edgy and had a touch of feminine flare. For reception, they brought in a balloon wall photo backdrop in shades of pink, peach and grey. They complemented the backdrop with modern tropical flowers including anthurium and bleached ruscus. However, the tall centrepieces were the show stoppers. “A few guests wondered if the flowers were real, because they looked so perfect!” Michelle says.
For her wedding dress, Michelle had trouble deciding between something fitted, elegant, sexy or princess-inspired. She decided to marry two different styles together. The seamstress altered the gown’s back so it looked like one piece when the skirt was added over top. The result was show-stopping, and the dress was by far Michelle’s favourite wedding detail. “The groom loved both looks as well, I was especially happy that the skirt came off for the reception. It had quite the train!” Michelle says.
The father and daughter choreographed dance had all of Michelle and Gregory’s guests laughing and crying. Michelle and her father are extremely close as they would go on all sorts of adventures together, “We would go on all sorts of adventures: exotic car rides, race car tracks, sky diving (twice!), glider planes, rock climbing, rappelling, zip-lining and more,” Michelle shares. Their dance routine involved a mashup of several artists such as Jackson 5 and Apache. “The crowd cheered and sang along and even copied some of the moves.”
Michelle Surya and Gregory Crowley, May 17, 2019, Lake Louise, Alberta.
Honouring her homeland of Australia, Angel Spendlove—the head designer and creative director for & For Love—has released her 2020 bridal collection. All of Spendlove’s designs embody nostalgia, liberation, curiosity, individuality, and celebrates her love of the Australian landscape. The collection, called “Picnic at Hanging Rock,” also draws inspiration from the Australian book and film of the same name.
Each bridal gown features a subtle dash of 80’s glamour, combined with modern femininity. Throughout the collection, low open backs, deep necklines and modern fabrics such as their signature micro-sequin balance out the innocence of sheer silk, oversized statement puffs, and relaxed sleek sleeves. One of our favourite gowns from this collection is the silvery sparkly bodycon dress with a plunging neckline.
A smile, a happy heart and your loved ones is the sentimental answer to what you should have with you on your wedding day. But in terms of items that every bride and groom should keep nearby on the day-of, there are quite a few on the list. From tissues to ballet flats, there are certain items that can save the day in a pinch—or at the very least, are handy to have in the event of an emergency and can help you go through any mishaps more comfortably.
During the planning process, it’s easy to allow these necessities to go overlooked. So it’s time to start thinking ahead—here are the essentials you should be packing in your bridal clutch the night before (or if you’re really on top of it, days before!) your wedding.
A second pair of shoes If you are sporting six-inch stilettos at your wedding, consider bringing a flat pair of shoes or kitten heels to change into for the reception. Give your feet a break and allow yourself to freely move around and dance. Couple portraits on grass or sand will also make a second pair of shoes a life saver. Don’t worry about sacrificing your look for function—there are so many beautiful options for sandals, flats, or super cute kicks.
An emergency sewing kit Ripped seam or loose beading on your wedding dress? Have no fear. Nowadays there are portable sewing kits that include a needle, a bobbin of matching thread and a small pair of scissors for fashion emergencies. Most kits also include safety pins, which are perfect if you’re pressed for time.
Gum or a pack of mints Keep your breath minty fresh with a pack of mints or gum. You’ll be thanking yourself later when you kiss your partner at the ceremony or when you greet your guests at the reception dinner.
Your phone and a portable charging bank Even if you’ll likely be posing for photos more than you’ll be taking them, most people can’t go without their phone for one day—and we can safely guess that this includes the bride and groom. You might also need your phone to keep in touch with vendors (if you haven’t hired a wedding planner or day-of coordinator). Be extra prepared and pack along a portable charging bank as well.
Makeup for touch-ups, makeup remover and a mirror Between tears of happiness or sweating under the sun, you’ll want to touch up your makeup. Concealer, setting powder and eyeliner for touchups is key, not to mention q-tips, tissues and makeup remover for any smeared mascara lines, smudged eyeliner, or out of place eye shadow. Ensure your compact has a mirror so you can quickly touch up, no matter where you are.
Your wedding-day lip colour and facial mist
This is an absolute essential—you’ll want your pout to be perfect for any photos. Ask your makeup artist to give you your lip colour to have on with you at all times. For a little refresh between kisses, bring a facial mist to ensure your skin stays hydrated.
Tissues and hankerchiefs
No matter how many times you tell yourself you won’t cry, it’s inevitable that there will be a pair of watery eyes (yours, your groom’s or your bridesmaid’s!). Pack some tissues or a hankerchief to dab your tears away and prevent your mascara from running.
A hair tie and bobby pins To ensure your wedding-day hairstyle stays in place, bring a hairtie and some bobby pins. With all the moving around you’ll be doing, hugs and photos, you’ll want your strands to stay secure.
A first-aid kit For allergies, headaches or upset stomachs, make sure you pack the right medications to help you bounce back quickly. Bandaids are also handy for any falls or scrapes, or unexpected paper cuts.
Hand cream and hand sanitizer Throughout your special day, you’ll be carrying your bouquet and likely shaking more than a few hands. To ensure your pair stays clean and moisturized, pack a small bottle of hand cream and hand sanitizer—you don’t want your hands to be dry for those ring photos!
For Jess and Travis, a wedding with both modern and traditional elements was always in the cards. The couple chose Cranberry Creek Gardens outside of London, Ontario, for their nuptials, envisioning an outdoor wedding from the very beginning. “It was a natural decision for our wedding colours to be inspired by the earth,” Jess says.
Jess, a style influencer who runs the blog Jess Undecided, wanted a classic wedding dress with a twist. “I was never a big-dress kind of girl, so I knew I would be looking for a sheath style,” she explains. “I had originally chosen a very minimalistic slip gown, but it felt like something was missing.” She found that missing component in a gorgeous Alexandra Grecco gown from The Modern Bride in Guelph, Ontario. “This was before we even thought about moving to Guelph, so in my mind, I feel like it was always meant to be,” Jess says. “I knew the gown was the one—the detailing on the back and the train perfectly suited our venue and theme.”
Walking down the aisle, the last eight years with Travis flashed before Jess’s eyes. “We didn’t do a first look because Travis is a true traditionalist at heart,” Jess reveals. “That moment of seeing each other for the first time, with him at the front of the church, was something we’ll never forget.”
After the ceremony, the couple took a private 20-minute escape to spend the first few moments together as Mr. & Mrs. “Our wedding planner advised us to do this, and it was the best piece of advice,” Jess shares. “It didn’t seem like much at first, but when the wedding day came, having that time together meant the world—it gave us a much-needed break.”
The reception was the first held in the property’s newly renovated barn. Chandeliers and string lights cast a warm glow as guests dined, speeches were made, and Jess and Travis shared their first dance to “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Engelbert Humperdinck. “We chose it because we both love old classics and the lyrics of this song in particular,” Jess says.
The party picked up after dinner and continued into the wee hours. “One of the best moments was the dance party. It was just us and the people we love most in the world all in one place. We laughed, danced and caught up with everyone!”
Jessica Lam and Travis Sguigna, July 27, 2019, Delhi, Ontario.
You’ve already planned out that you’ll pop the big question—but figuring out the exact date to propose might prove to be a challenging task. Should you propose around the holidays? A summer getaway? Your partner’s birthday, or the universal day of love—Valentine’s Day? These are all legitimate dates to consider as you begin to prep your proposal speech and find the perfect engagement ring. You want the day to bear some meaning in order to make the entire occasion more heartfelt and sentimental. But don’t sweat finding the perfect day. Here are some general tips you should consider when it comes to picking the perfect day to propose.
Should you propose on a holiday? Holidays are certainly a popular time to get engaged—especially during Christmas. For some, the festivities, spirit and backdrop of Christmas lights make it the perfect time to get down on one knee in front of a backdrop of Christmas lights. But for others, the stress of the holidays might not make it the ideal time to plan a proposal. And the festivities, meeting loved ones and overall excitement that comes with Christmas could make it easy to push your engagement into the background. But getting engaged during the holidays means you can also share the news with family you’ll likely be seeing, and it’ll likely be the best gift you’ll receive that Christmas. New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day might be a good time to propose, as it allows you to start the year off with your partner on a positive note as you plan a new year—and chapter of your life—together.
The birthday of you or your partner is also another day to consider when it comes to proposing—but just remember, not everyone wants to share their birthday with another special date.
Valentine’s Day remains one of the most popular days to get engaged. Being the day of love, it makes sense as to why. Bear in mind that if you choose this date, you’ll be sharing your engagement date with many other couples, and there may not be as big of an element of surprise if you propose on this holiday.
Consider proposing on a date that holds special meaning to you and your partner. Consider a special day that you and your partner share that isn’t linked to any major holidays. This could be the day that you two first met, had your first date, kiss or said “I love you.” It could even be during a special vacation. Choosing a date that’s significant to you and your partner shows you put thought and meaning behind every detail of the proposal, and is a symbol of your love and your love alone.
Is there such a thing as the perfect day to propose? Sometimes the stars don’t perfectly align on the intended day—and that’s okay. Keep in mind that not everything has to be (or can be) spot on. Make sure on that special day you and your partner are in good spirits and aren’t dealing with any recent problems. Additionally, you should ensure that you aren’t proposing during a busy time in you or your partner’s lives. If the ideal date you choose doesn’t work for whatever reason, it is smart to have a plan b. Whether you choose to propose on another day or on the same day, but in a different location, make sure you have a backup plan. If there’s a family emergency on the date you were planning, you can go with the next best day you had in mind, or if it rains on a day you planned to propose outside, you have a second option of proposing indoors.
The bachelorette party is one of the biggest pre-wedding events for a bride. Whether you want a wild night out with your girls, or even a low-key night in, music no doubt plays a big role in setting the tone for your celebration. If you want to hype your girls up for the big party, we’ve got just the right playlist that features a ray of tunes, all from female artists who will have you feeling like a million bucks. From Ariana Grande to Madonna, we’ve got all the songs that are absolutely essential to your bachelorette party playlist. Hand over the aux cord, here are 30 songs you definitely need to play for the ultimate pre-wedding party.
“God is a woman” by Ariana Grande
With its bold, woman-empowering lyrics and upbeat melody, this song will have you and your pals on your feet.
“Milkshake” by Kelis
This classic hit tune will never go of style. The catchy beat and signature lyrics, “my milkshake brings all the boys to the yard,” are instantly recognizable.
“Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
With the lyrics “but I keep cruising, can’t stop, won’t stop moving/It’s like I got this music in my mind, sayin’ gonna be alright,” this song is a good reminder for you to shake off any pre-wedding jitters you might have!
“Run The World (Girls)” by Beyonce
Queen B knows how to write a good female empowerment anthem, and we know you and your girls will be singing this one at the top of your lungs.
“Feeling Myself” by Beyonce and Nicki Minaj
There’s nothing like the fierce duo of Beyonce and Nicki Minaj to make your night a blast.
“Bird Song” by MIA
MIA names different types of birds in this song—but she makes it extremely fun to listen to.
“Material Girl” by Madonna
This classic Madonna song is the epitome of the 80s, and a song that will instantly put you in an upbeat mood.
“A Whole Lotta Woman” by Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson’s fierce voice and amazing, empowering lyrics will have you feeling like a whole lotta woman after you listen to this song.
“Confident” by Demi Lovato
At your bachelorette party, you want to feel like a million bucks—and this song will definitely have you feeling this way.
“Man, I Feel Like a Woman” by Shania Twain
It’s a girl’s night out, and the lyrics “Let’s go girls, come on/ I’m going out tonight, I’m feelin’ alright/ gonna let it all hang out,” is a perfect description of the vibe you should be going for your bachelorette party.
“Sweetener” by Ariana Grande
This song features an extremely catchy chorus to sing along to with your bridesmaids, with the adorable lyrics paying homage to the sweet feeling of falling in love.
“Hollaback Girl” by Gwen Stefani
This is a 2000s classic that will have every bridesmaid that’s easy to sing along to and chant.
“Primadonna Girl” by Marina and the Diamonds
This song can be seen as a fresh and modern take on Madonna’s “Material Girl.” The vibe of this song would go well with a glam theme for a bachelorette party.
“Tik Tok” by Kesha
This timeless 2000s beat is something that all bridesmaids should know the lyrics to.
“Juice” by Lizzo
One of the most popular female artists this year, Lizzo is quickly making a name for herself as a singer who writes female empowerment anthems. If lyrics like “if I’m shinin’, everybody gonna shine (yeah, I’m goals) I was born like this, don’t even gotta try” doesn’t get you and your bridesmaids hyped up at your party, you need to listen to the song again.
Nicki Minaj has an entire discography of songs to hype anyone up. This song is based off a female video game character who is famous for kicking butt. The combination of the two equals insurmountable girl power.
“I Got a Boy” by Girls Generation>
If your bachelorette party includes some K-pop fans, we’ve got this perfect song for you. Nothing says girl power than Girls Generation.
“7/11” by Beyonce
This song will have you re-enacting its music video with your bridesmaids. Make sure to “wave your hands side to side,” and “clap, clap, clap like you don’t care,” at your bachelorette party.
“Hips Don’t Lie” by Shakira
This song will get you and your bridesmaids up and dancing. Shakira is the perfect choice if you want to feel sexy and in charge.
“Emotions” by Mariah Carey
If you got a group of karaoke singers at your bachelorette party, Mariah is the best pick. Have fun trying to hit her high whistle tones in this tune!
“Applause” by Lady Gaga
Nothing says all eyes on me than Lady Gaga’s “Applause.” You will feel like the centre of attention when you dance to this at your bachelorette party.
“Run Away With Me” by Carly Rae Jepsen
This song will make you feel on top of the world, adventurous, and ready to take on anything.
“Number One” by Tove Styrke
This feel-good song is perfect for a luxe, glam vibe when you are out celebrating with your bridesmaids.
“Love Story” by Katherine McPhee
This love ballad will have you in full diva mode, stomping your heels long after it’s over!
“Sorry Not Sorry” by Demi Lovato
No apologies said for how over the top your bachelorette party is going to be. This song fits the mood perfectly.
“Only Girl (In The World)” by Rihanna
You want to feel like the only girl in the world in the eyes of your partner—and Rihanna is here to make sure you feel that way before the big day.
The best part about having your special day in the off-season of winter is that it pushes you to be more creative with your ceremony decor—and that includes the types of flowers that go into your bouquet. Brides can still include spring florals such as orchids and roses, but there are also beautiful winter options such as holly, pinecones or silver dollar eucalyptus. There are many seasonal sprigs to choose from that would look beautiful in your bouquet. Here are a few of our favourite winter bouquets from real weddings to get you inspired.
We love the statement-making pinecone in this bouquet.<br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/a-rustic-winter-wedding-in-montreal/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
For a more simple approach, this bride opted for a simple white peony flower with some complimentary green leaves for contrast. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/a-modern-winter-wedding-in-alberta/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
This waterfall bouquet fuses together spring and winter colours by incorporating cool white roses with vibrant pink ones. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/glamorous-romantic-winter-wedding-elora-ontario/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
This modern bride went with some soft white flowers with mustard yellow tones for an artfully elegant look to her bouquet. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/minimalist-winter-wedding-toronto/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>.
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
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The cool undertones of the white flowers combined with mint green eucalyptus leaves gives this bouquet a fresh vibe. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/a-romantic-winter-wedding-with-earthy-details/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>.
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Pastel pink and peach roses with greenery make for a beautiful bouquet with a whimsical splash of colour. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/a-romantic-winter-wedding-in-ottawa-ontario/" target="_blank">this real wedding </a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
For a unique accent, this bouquet has silver brunia berries tucked into the white flowers with splashes of light pink for some extra glam. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/an-elegant-winter-wedding-in-banff-alberta/" target="_blank">this real wedding </a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
There's nothing like the classic red rose paired with white flowers to give incorporate the warm vibe of Christmas into your wedding. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/elegant-winter-wedding-prince-edward-island/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>.
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
The unique florals in this bouquet make it a statement piece, with silver brunia berries, pussy willows and dried honeycomb. To add some warmth into this arrangement, nestled between each flora is a fluffy cotton flower. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/an-elegant-winter-wedding-in-canmore-alberta/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Go white and green for your winter wedding with this gorgeous bouquet. Tiny green berries give this bouquet texture and contrast. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/an-ethereal-winter-wedding-in-fort-saskatchewan-alberta/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
This bride added a unique spin to the classic rose bouquet by incorporating white anemones with eucalyptus leaves. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/laid-back-winter-wedding-kananaskis-alberta/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>.
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
This bouquet proves that you can still do a full, oversized garden-style arrangement in the winter. We absolutely love the combination of white peonies, maroon flora and scarlet berries, which add warmth to a winter wedding. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/romantic-white-winter-wedding-kleinburg-ontario/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Light greenery and full blooms give this bouquet a gorgeous earthy vibe, perfect for the backdrop of the rocky mountains.<br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/stunning-scenic-mountain-wedding-banff/" target="_blank">this real wedding </a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
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Spice a winter bouquet up with yellow orchids for a nice splash of colour. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/an-elegant-winter-wedding-in-ottawa/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
This floral arrangement is the perfect mix of bright but subtle. Soft white roses with petite blue flowers make for a bouquet that's both delicate and glamourous. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/a-gorgeous-winter-wedding-in-ottawa/" target="_blank">this real wedding </a>.
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
This all-white bouquet pays homage to winter with the addition of snowy pinecones.<br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/a-chic-winter-wedding-in-quebec/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
This traditional red rose bouquet is offset by some frosty silver leaves for a subtle wintery touch. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/romantic-winter-wedding-in-ottawa/" target="_blank">this real wedding </a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Want a backyard wilderness-inspired bouquet? This bride chose cream-coloured flowers with pinecones mixed and grass for interest.<br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/an-enchanting-winter-wedding-in-ste-adele-quebec/" target="_blank">this real wedding </a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
We love the variety of florals in this bouquet.<br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/a-romantic-winter-wedding-in-toronto-ontario/" target="_blank">this real wedding </a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
This floral arrangement has a pretty colour palette of white, green and grey with pops of burgundy, finished with a cappuccino-coloured ribbon. <br />
<br />
Bouquet from <a href="https://weddingbells.ca/real-weddings/woodland-inspired-winter-wedding-cambridge-ontario/" target="_blank">this real wedding</a>. <br />
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Gorgeous Winter Bouquets To Include in Your Wedding
Ariahna and Warren have been inseparable since 2001. They first met in grade seven, in which Warren was the new kid in class. Over the school year, they slowly got to know each other but didn’t officially become a couple until grade eight.
Seventeen years later, Warren popped the question on a trip to Alberta. Ariahna remembers Warren stopping her for a quick photo to capture the scenery around them. “He pressed the button on the camera, but he didn’t run in to make the photo. Instead, he walked slowly, grabbed my hands, got on one knee, and proposed,” Ariahna says. “He caught the whole thing on video.”
The concept of their wedding romance was inspired by Shakespeare’s A Midsummer’s Night Dream. “We’ve always gravitated towards spending time outdoors,” Ariahna explains. “We love the romantic, free, green vibe of sunsets.” Their wedding colours were blush and tan with splashes of green. “We felt that these colours of nature made a statement, and elevated the natural beauty of a summer evening wedding,” Ariahna shares.
The bridal party flowers were Ariahna’s favourite wedding detail. They worked with Blushing Willow, who was able to create the perfect floral arrangement that encapsulated the wild and free aesthetic that they were looking for. The neutral creams and blush tones within the bouquets created an overall wild romantic vibe, with the addition of cappuccino hues and deep pinks. “I loved working with the florist to find the shape, flowers, and colours that would boost the life of the bouquets,” Ariahna says.
After dancing to their chosen wedding song, Brian McKnight’s “Never Felt This Way,” the couple’s favourite moment at the reception was the first mosh pit that formed on the dance floor. “The energy was so palpable and everyone was just so excited for us,” Ariahna shares. “We’ve been dating since we were 14. So needless to say, all of our friends and family were just over the moon to have witnessed something that was a long time coming.”
Ariahna Mata and Warren Credo, August 16, 2019, Toronto, Ontario.
Whether you’ve attended several weddings or watched them in romantic comedies, you’ve probably noticed a few wedding traditions. They usually define the classic wedding ceremony and some of us don’t pay too much attention towards them. As we move to a new decade, modern weddings are starting to stray away from these customs.
But have you ever wondered where these traditions originated from? Why does the bride wear white? Why do we use rings to signify marriage? Why is the wedding march, well, called the wedding march? All of these answers circle back to hundreds of years ago, where the original meanings are more interesting than you originally thought. By knowing the background of these traditions, you might find they hold greater meaning for your wedding ceremony, you might want to tweak them to be more personal to you, or you might want to ditch them altogether. Here we explain seven of the most popular, well-known wedding traditions.
Why is the ring worn on the left hand on the fourth finger? In ancient Rome, it was believed that the vein in the fourth finger of the left hand travelled directly to the heart of the person wearing the ring. This particular vein was thus named “vena amoris,” or the vein of love. Unfortunately, no such vein exists since all the veins in the hand have the same vasculature.
Why do rings symbolize marriage? The practice of exchanging rings dates backs to ancient Egypt—nearly 3,000 years ago. Old Egyptian scrolls suggest that couples gave each other rings made out of hemp or reeds. However, in order to preserve the otherwise fragile nature of these wedding bands, they turned to stronger materials such as bone and ivory. Furthermore, the Egyptians believed that marital rings symbolized eternal love through the infinite shape of the band.
Why are wedding dresses traditionally white? One of the first wedding trendsetters was Queen Victoria, when she married Prince Albert in 1840. She donned the first white bridal gown, which was made out Honiton lace and cream Spitalfields silk satin. The press made her bridal fashion an overnight success as it spread internationally, and thus the tradition of the white wedding dress began. Additionally, white is also considered to represent purity and virtue in some societies.
What are the origins of bridesmaids and groomsmen? Having bridesmaids dates back to ancient Rome where, in order for a wedding to be legally binding, there had to be at least 10 witnesses present. The role of the bridesmaid was to dress very similar to the bride in order to confuse evil spirits who may try to harm the newlyweds. In Christianity, the term bridesmaid is taken in its literal form: a maid to help the bride on her wedding day.
The role of the groomsmen originated in Biblical times where they were tasked to capture the bride from her family. The best man would be the head of the kidnapping. But in a more romantic setting, groomsmen could also be seen as the bride’s protection force against family members who opposed the marriage, thus ensuring that she marries the man that she loves.
What is the purpose of the wedding veil? Its origin can be traced back to ancient Rome yet again. While some cultures perceive the veil as a symbol of modesty and humility, its original purpose was to disguise the bride from any vengeful entities who wanted to take away her happiness.
Why do some weddings play the wedding march during the ceremony? This musical trend started 160 years ago when Princess Victoria married Frederick William IV of Prussia. The “Wedding March” or “Here Comes the Bride” were actually never written to be used as wedding songs. The composer of the “Wedding March,” Felix Mendelssohn, wrote the piece for an 1842 production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. “Here Comes the Bride” originated from Richard Wagner’s opera Lohengrin that played in 1850.
What is the symbolism behind ringing the church bells at a wedding? Wedding bells originates from ancient Celtic and Irish history. The bells were perceived to help ward off evil spirits and it blessed the newlyweds with the loudness of the bells. Additionally, the literal ring of the bells was a way to spread the news that a wedding took place.
Jaime and Cameron met by swiping right on Tinder. On their first date, they went bar hopping along Bloor Street. “It was a pretty great sign that we got along and that we could have lots of fun together,” Jaime shares. For Cameron, there were a thousand different moments where he knew that Jaime was the one for him—and he was about to tell her at Jaime’s family cottage in Quebec. The couple was out for a walk when Cam went down on one knee to pull the ring out of his pocket. “I burst into tears and didn’t stop crying for a solid five minutes—and that was before he said a single word,” Jaime says. “The photos are somewhat embarrassing.”
For their wedding, the couple wanted the vibe to be cozy and romantic, especially during the winter season. They envisioned a colour palette of green, white, grey and burgundy. The couple added candles and string lights for dinner service and created a semicircle of flora and candles for the altar. This all worked perfectly for their venue, the Storys Building in Toronto. “We knew that it would be the perfect backdrop for the cozy, romantic vibe that we were hoping to achieve,” Jaime says.
One of Jaime’s favourite wedding details was the wall display. Their venue had a gallery wall that hung an artwork display, in which they asked to remove to replace with family photos. “It was a nice way to acknowledge family members who are no longer with us and also gave our guests a better sense of both of our family histories,” Jaime shares.
Aside from marrying each other, the couple’s favourite moment of the wedding was listening to the hilarious and kind words offered during the ceremony speeches. “We were seeing everyone that we love in the world gathered together in one room, smiling back at us.”
Jaime Cardy and Cameron Baldassarra, February 23, 2019, Toronto, Ontario.
The strapless bridal gown is classic. From the sweetheart bodice to a plunging neckline to a modern tubular bustier, there are a variety of designs for a bride to choose from. Designers have added their own unique, modern twists to strapless gowns—whether it be with the material, the shape of the bodice or the embellishments. There are also many gowns that have the illusion of being strapless, but have transparent mesh for a higher neckline or even to add sleeves with details such as floral appliqués. From Michael Fausto’s abstract silhouettes to Romona Keveza’s sophisticated but elegant styles, we’ve rounded up 71 of our favourite strapless wedding dresses for every bride.
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Dress from <a href=”https://weddingbells.ca/fashion-beauty/wedding-dresses/ines-di-santo-fall-2020-wedding-dresses/" target="_blank">Ines Di Santo</a>.<br />
Dress from <a href=”https://weddingbells.ca/fashion-beauty/wedding-dresses/ines-di-santo-fall-2020-wedding-dresses/" target="_blank">Ines Di Santo</a>.<br />
Dress from <a href=”https://weddingbells.ca/fashion-beauty/wedding-dresses/ines-di-santo-fall-2020-wedding-dresses/" target="_blank">Ines Di Santo</a>.<br />
Dress from <a href=”https://weddingbells.ca/fashion-beauty/wedding-dresses/ines-di-santo-fall-2020-wedding-dresses/" target="_blank">Ines Di Santo</a>.<br />
Alex met Jana in Thailand on Koh Chang Island, where he noticed her walking by the beach bar. “I was a bit shy, so my friend stepped up for me and asked Jana and her friend if they wanted to sit at our table,” Alex shares. After a night of cocktails and a lovely dinner, the two hit it off. Four years later, they spent a month back in Canada visiting Jana’s family in Edmonton. At that time, Alex was waiting for the right moment to pop the question. It took place in the river valley where the two went on a romantic walk together. “I eventually found a quiet spot next to the river, before I went down on one knee,” Alex says. “Fortunately, she said yes. And even better, she loved the ring I picked out.”
The couple chose Ponderosa Point in British Columbia to have their wedding venue. They wanted to be married on the lakeside, with a rustic-bohemian themed ceremony. “We were inspired by the lavender farms in the Okanagan,” Alex says. “So we decided to have our wedding colours be different shades of purples, pinks, whites and greenery.”
Alex and Jana wanted to incorporate vintage decor in their ceremony, giving a relaxed look to their celebration, as they didn’t want it to be too formal. “My mom and I spent countless hours discussing every detail of how we wanted everything to come together,” Jana shares. Their favourite decor pieces were the family photos, Jana’s mother’s lavender pots at the ceremony and the sailcloth tent embellished with string lights. “Our wedding planner, Nicole from Dreamy Events helped us with the final details to include in the ceremony and reception,” Jana says. “We were so happy with how everything turned out.”
Their favourite moment of the ceremony was exchanging vows, as the couple decided to write their own. “I was so happy I was marrying my best friend in front of our friends and family in this stunning setting,” Jana shares. For Alex, he was in tears as soon as he saw Jana walk down the aisle, but it was her words during the ceremony that he will never forget. “Jana said things that she has never said about me before,” he says. “Nothing will ever top that.”
Jana Pozsgay and Alex Jackson,June 15, 2019, Kaleden, British Columbia.
