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Alex & Tyler

August 18th, 2018

See Alex & Tyler’s wedding video below:

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Commonly Overlooked Costs To Add To Your Wedding Budget

August 8th, 2018

Your wedding day is fast approaching and you’ve got all the big items checked off your budget: the venue, the dress, the food. But have you included the smaller charges that often creep up unnoticed? These can quickly balloon your budget if you’re not careful. As planners, we work closely with couples and their money concerns on a daily basis. Here are the areas people tend to forget about when making their wedding budget.

Postage

The cost of postage can add up quickly, especially if you’re sending save-the-dates, invites, and thank you cards. Stamps start at $1 and can go up to several dollars per piece depending on weight. If your budget is tight, make sure to discuss approximate postage costs with your stationary provider before committing to that luxury boxed invitation suite.

Taxes and tips

Have you received a too good too be true quote from a vendor only to realize later that it didn’t include the 13% sales tax and 18% gratuity? You’re not alone. While these costs shouldn’t be hidden, many couples don’t take them into account on their original budgets. Keep in mind that a service charge is not the same as a tip and does not go directly to the staff. If a vendor has provided great service and doesn’t automatically add gratuity, it’s customary to tip them on the wedding day or soon after.

Marriage license

The legal paperwork for you marriage is an unavoidable and important cost. In Ontario, the fee for a marriage license ranges from $75 to $166. Looking to cut costs where you can? Grab your partner and go on a little road trip. Rural licensing offices tend to charge significantly less than ones located in larger cities.

Vendor meals

Vendors who are on-site the day of your wedding often state in their contracts that they must be provided with a meal. Some couples may raise an eyebrow at this, but it’s for good reason. Day of vendors typically work 12-14 hours on your wedding day with little downtime. If they’re sneaking off to eat their own meals or to take breaks they risk missing important moments. Vendors should always be provided with a meal and a chair, but feel free to skip the stationary and centerpieces.

Alterations, undergarments and accessories

Remember that the price of the wedding dress is not just the number on the tag. Bridal gowns typically require alterations, specialty bras and shapeware, shoes, and jewelry. Alterations can range from $75 to $250 and up depending on the intricacy of the dress and amount of work needed. Play it safe and add a cushion of at least $500 on top of your dress budget.

Planner or Day Of Coordinator

Even if you choose to do most of the wedding planning yourself, you’re going to want someone on the ground overseeing your big day. Many couples are disappointed when they assume they can rely on a friend, family member, or their venue coordinator to fill that roll. The cost of a coordinator may seem like a lot upfront, but it allows you and your guests to relax and fully enjoy the day knowing it’s safe in the hands of a professional. Check out KEP’s Services page for more details on how to pick the perfect coordination package for your needs and budget.

Xoxo, KEP

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James & Mark (video)

August 4th, 2018

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James & Mark

August 4th, 2018

See James & Mark’s wedding video below:

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The Do’s and Don’ts of Choosing Wedding Vendors

July 20th, 2018

Choosing the right vendors is the most important and challenging aspect of planning a wedding. Whether it’s florists, photographers, DJs, or caterers, there are some some standard tips for making good vendor decisions. Here are some of our do’s and don’ts for selecting the perfect people to make your dream wedding a reality.

Do: Start with a Wedding Planner

Okay, so we may be a little bit biased, but the absolute best way to ensure you’re getting quality vendors is to hire an experienced wedding planner. Wedding planners can end up saving you both time and money in the long run. At KEP we provide every couple with a list of well-respected, experienced vendors—tailored to your personality, style, and budget. Contact us today and we’ll set you up with the best vendors Ottawa has to offer.

Don’t: Keep looking once you’ve made a decision

This one’s for you, indecisive couples! Resist the temptation to price shop or keep looking around once you’ve committed to a vendor. Trust us, it will make the whole planning process a lot less overwhelming. The internet is constantly churning out new trends, decor ideas, dress styles, and color palettes. Be confident in your decisions and use your time to focus on other tasks.

Do: Your research

With the popularity of Instagram and Pinterest, it’s hard to resist the appeal of vendors with the prettiest online presence. While social media is a good place to start, don’t forget to do your due diligence. Always check out a vendor’s Google and Facebook reviews. Websites like WeddingWire and The Knot also have honest industry reviews. However, online reviews don’t always tell the whole story of a company. Ask newlywed friends or family members for recommendations.

Don’t: Always choose the cheapest option

It doesn’t matter if your budget is $1,000 or $100,000, every couple loves a good deal. However, —just like in any industry—you get what you pay for. Be wary of vendors offering too good to be true pricing or are seriously under-charging for services compared to their counterparts. Instead, choose someone that fits your style and ask if they can work within your budget. If not, you may need to consider adjusting your budget and/or expectations.

Do: Trust your gut

Always meet a vendor in person (or via video chat) before signing a contract with them. Don’t underestimate the power of your instinct. Do your personalities mesh well? Do they seem genuinely interested and excited about working with you? Can you speak with past clients they’ve worked with? These are things you should be asking yourself during the meeting.

Don’t: Forget that vendors are people too

This one may sound obvious, but it’s important to maintain perspective when working with vendors. A vendor that’s taking a little too long to respond to your emails can leave couples feeling frustrated and anxious. Remember that vendors are usually small business owners with families and responsibilities just like you. Be respectful when confronting someone who’s not meeting your expectations. A great vendor will be receptive of your concerns and work to rectify issues. After your wedding, don’t forget to thank vendors who helped make your big day amazing.

Xoxo, KEP

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How To: Incorporate Pride Into An LGBTQ Wedding

June 28th, 2018

Pride Month may be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate it into your wedding all year round. Many lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) couples use their wedding to recognize and honour the fight for equality that is still ongoing today. If a full-on ROYGBIV themed bash isn’t your style, we’ve got some subtler suggestions that will be right up your alley.

Dessert

A dessert table is the perfect place to show off your individuality as a couple. If you’re looking for something subtle, opt for a rainbow layered surprise when you cut into the cake. For a bolder look, go all out with a statement piece that screams “Love is Love”, finished off with a cute custom topper.

Accessories

You and your wedding party’s wardrobe is a great place to add little nods to Pride. If you’re wearing suits, try rainbow cufflinks, socks, or pocket squares. If dresses are more your style, accessorize with rainbow heels, jewelry, or a colourful bouquet. With accessories the possibilities are endless.

Decor

Similar to accessories, decor is a great way to bring in small touches or big bold statements. Consider a tasteful ceremony arch that incorporates the colours of the rainbow or signage that celebrates LGBTQ love. Rainbow inspired florals or centerpieces can also give a pop of Pride fun.

Photography

If you’ve chosen a trendy dark, moody colour palette for your wedding you may struggle to fit rainbows into your decor. Why not take some creative Pride-filled photos instead? Do some scouting with your photographer to find a colourful graffiti wall. Take your engagement photos during Pride month when there are already a lot of great decorations around the city. This way you can share you pride without changing your overall vision for the wedding.

At the end of the day Pride is about a lot more than rainbow flags and glitter (although we’re big fans of both!). The best way to show your Pride is by ditching the wedding rule book and having a celebration that is uniquely you. In lieu of a gift registry, ask guests to donate to your favourite LGBTQ organizations. Use an inclusivity-focused reading in your ceremony like a passage from the Supreme Court ruling that legalized same-sex marriage in the United States. Skip a formal ceremony all together and have a Queer Eye cast member marry you on a Pride parade float!

xoxo, KEP

Photo Credits

Featured image: D.Lillian Photography via Green Wedding Shoes

Dessert: Morgan Miller Photography via Equally Wed; Carla Penoncelli via Martha Stewart Weddings; Hi Volt Studios via Equally Wed

Accessories: I Heart My Groom via Bespoke Bride; Mak Rabbitt Photography via Equally Wed

Decor: D.Lillian Photography via Green Wedding Shoes; The Peculiar Pelican via Etsy; Alex Dugan Photography via Equally Wed

Photography: Misti Layne Photography via Equally Wed; Amy Gray Photography via Bespoke Bride, Clean Plate Pictures

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Kristina & Ante (video)

June 23rd, 2018

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Kristina & Ante

June 23rd, 2018

See Kristina & Ante’s wedding video below:

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#TravelThursday—Montreal

June 21st, 2018

In 2017, Huffington Post published an article on the Top 10 Hottest Bachelor and Bachelorette Party Destinations. Out of the ten cities, two of them were in Canada and one happened to be Montreal, Quebec.

Located approximately two hours from Ottawa, this gorgeous city boasts all that you can hope for and more when it comes to planning that special weekend away with you and your friends.

If you’re in need of a little culture, this beautiful island gives you old European vibes with its cobblestones and gothic revival buildings; but also screams new world with its numerous festivals and extravagant nightlife.

Today at KEP we’ll tell you about some of our favourite things about Montreal.

WHERE TO STAY

Airbnb

Although Montreal offers many wonderful hotels, it can sometimes be tricky to find a room to accommodate your entire party.

Airbnb is a great option in this wonderful city. It allows you to find a home, apartment or condo for you to share with all of your friends without having to be separated in different rooms or parts of a hotel.

Through Airbnb, hidden in downtown Montreal we found a penthouse condo that can host up to 12 guests. Depending on the time of year you plan to head to Montreal this condo can start at $455 CAD per night.

The best part about this gem is it has its own private terrace with a hot tub and spectacular views of downtown and Mount Royal!

WHERE TO EAT

Le Bremner and Garde Manger

If you have a foodie among you and they are familiar with The Food Network channel your group of pals need to head over to Le Bremner or Garde Manger.

Well known Canadian Chef Chuck Hughes is co-owner and executive chef of Garde Manger and Le Bremner. He is a best-selling author and also has his own show with fellow Canadian Chef Danny Smiles called “Chuck and Danny’s Road Trip”

These two restaurants are sure to not disappoint. Both seafood inspired however each location has its unique differences.

KEP TIP: Be sure to check out the menus to find which locations suits your palates more. Once that is done make that reservation as soon as you can. Both locations accept reservations up to 30 days in advance.

WHAT TO DO

Montreal offers more activities than we know what to do with! We have narrowed 3 very different things to do based on what you and your group may be looking for.

The Thrill Seekers: La Ronde

If you are looking for thrill and adventure along with feeling like a teenager again head on over and spend the day at La Ronde. Ride some roller coasters, spin in some tea cups and try your luck at the carnival games!

KEP TIP: If you’re there the third weekend of September you need to check out their event “La Nuit Blanche”. In celebration of the beginning of fall, La Ronde will stay open until the early hours of the night and have dj’s and live performances from all over the world for this one night of fun!

The Partiers: Beach Club

Located approximately thirty minutes from downtown Montreal is the infamous Beach Club. North America’s largest outdoor club offers you all the vibes of Vegas and being down south in one. With a new DJ or artist each weekend we’re sure you’ll be able to find a weekend that will satisfy you and your friends.

KEP Tip: Contact Beach Club for their Cabana reservations. They are located around the pool and include VIP tickets, bottle service with a private server and a comfy day bed for the ultimate experience of soaking up the sun and partying with your gal pals.

The Chillers: Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau

Right in the Old Port with spectacular views of the city is Bota Bota, spa sur l’eau. Essentially Bota Bota is just that; a spa on the St Lawrence. Enjoy saunas, hot tubs, hot and cold pools and all the spa treatments you can think of.

KEP TIP: Be sure to check out their promotions. They include theirwater circuit along with massages and/or food and drink and many other options.

There are so many more excursions for you and your group to do in Montreal. It is one city that will not disappoint, especially since their nightlife is open until 3 am and some places extend to after hours. So do you research and find out which activity best suits you and your friends. We hope we were able to give you a bit of a head start.

XOXO KEP

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Keeping Your Cool at a Summer Wedding

June 11th, 2018

If you’ve ever attended an outdoor summer wedding you’ve probably noticed two things: 1.) they are beautiful 2.) they can be HOT. That doesn’t just apply to outdoor venues. Older churches and rustic venues with no air conditioning are notorious hot boxes as well. But fear not! It is possible to keep your guests from melting without sacrificing your wedding vision. Here are some of our favourite ways to beat the heat and keep everyone cool, calm, and collected at your summer wedding.

Don’t skimp on refreshments

Set-up a cute welcome station at the entrance to your ceremony that includes fruited water, lemonade, or ice tea. While it may be tempting to bump up the cold beer or white wine offerings, remember that alcohols and sugary drinks dehydrate people faster. Save the good stuff for after the sun goes down. For dessert, swap the traditionally heavy wedding cake for your favourite gelato, popsicles, or snow cones.

Implement creative props

There are lots of ways to incorporate cool-down methods into your overall decor without sacrificing style. A simple and affordable option is creating a ceremony program that doubles as a fan for every guest. Forgo traditional guest gifts and put together tote bags that include mini versions all the summer essentials—sunscreen, sunglasses, and a bottle of water. Going with a whimsical or vintage theme? Consider renting decorative umbrellas to keep guests looking cute and comfortable all day long.

Relax the dress code

Let’s face it, no one wants to see sweat stains in their wedding photos. A great way to avoid this is by implementing a more casual dress code—outdoor weddings tend to be more laid-back affairs anyways. Make it clear on the invitations that guests will be outside so they can prepare accordingly. You can carry this through to the bridal party as well. Bridesmaids will appreciate breathable, flowy maxis or short, tea-length dresses in lighter colours. The men can trade suit jackets and ties for trendy suspenders or linen vests.

Bring out the big guns

If you’re dealing with a real record-breaking scorcher on your big day, paper fans and popsicles may not cut it. Heat exhaustion is a serious medical condition and you don’t want anyone leaving your wedding in an ambulance. Worse comes to worst, have an indoor option on standby. If you don’t want to give up your dream of an outdoor wedding, rent a tent and industrial misting fans to keep things cooled off.

Xoxo, KEP

Photo credit

Featured image: Blair Gable

All other images courtesy of Style Me Pretty

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