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- Food: serve warm treats like: fries and sliders, mini soft pretzels, s’mores, or even mini sugar-coated donuts!
- Hot Cocoa: always a crowd pleaser, especially as a “build-your-own” station
- Warm Apple Cider or Mulled Wine: a classic autumn drink and so yummy!
- Coffee: consider offering decaf too unless you want your guests to stay awake to help tidy up afterwards!
- The traditional naked cake – if there can be such a thing as it is still quite a new wedding concept, a traditional naked cake is layer upon layer of Victoria Sponge filled with cream, buttercream, or vanilla frosting and decorated with fresh flowers, fresh fruits (usually strawberries) and icing sugar. It is an impressive statement cake and can be easily adjusted in height to suit any wedding party size.
- The chocolate naked cake – chocolate sponge is substituted for the Victoria Sponge and then the fillings might remain vanilla, fresh cream, or be swapped for fruit flavored or even chocolate frosting.
- The mix & matched naked cake – all bets are off as vanilla and chocolate sponge are mixed with any type of frosting or filling you can think of from double chocolate to passion fruit. A glorious mix of flavours, bound to be something for everyone in the wedding party.
- The tiered naked cake – most naked cakes simple stack layers and layers of sponge and frosting on top of each other in graduated layers rather than relying on actual cake boards, columns, and tiers. But some do. A great compromise if you love the idea of a naked cake but would like to make a nod to the traditional. I think it might also be a great way of having a cake made by a friend or family member who would likely be able to manage the weight distribution issues better using boards and columns.
How To: Stay Warm at Your Wedding
October 5th, 2016
It’s official – Autumn is setting in, we are very sorry to say, and the warm and magical nights of summer are quickly fading. Long gone are the nights where staying out late didn’t involve a costume change. But hey – we never shy away from a brand new outfit opportunity! Enjoy these tips on how to remain a blushing bride… not a freezing one!
3/4 Length Sleeve Dress: this is a different look, but such a pretty one. Be daring yet elegant with sleeves!
Shawl: simple elegance adds a sweet touch to your already stunning ensemble!
Denim jacket: denim and white is a dreamy combination for a down-to-earth wedding with rustic vibes.
Leather jacket: for the edgy and punk at heart, leather isn’t far from arms-reach anyway and it totally works on your special day!
Cardigan: cardi’s don’t have to be plain-Jane! Search out one with lace, a fun pattern or sparkle to enhance your style. Expert tip: match your cardigan colour to your wedding colours to make the whole picture come together.
Blazer: keep it formal and fancy with a blazer. This is a very powerful look!
Although the nights are colder, there is no denying the heat between you and your partner. Don’t be afraid of a fall wedding – there are plenty of ways for your guests to stay warm and for you to creatively keep your guests warm at your wedding!
*photos courtesy of Pinterest.
Picking the Perfect Venue
September 6th, 2016
Let’s face it, choosing a wedding venue or venues is definitely overwhelming! Without a venue, there is no wedding date. With no wedding date, you can’t hire your other vendors. So many questions! Are the ceremony and reception going to be in the same space or at two different locations? Standing cocktail reception or 5 course sit down dinner? There are many options these days and something to fit everyone’s fancy and budget. Here are some of our pro tips and suggestions on how to select a property that is perfect you and set the stage for your dream day:
Reflect Who You Are: Ultimately this is a celebration that should reflect who you both are. Couples can like different things but will have to come together to find a place that reflects both of you. Think of it like picking the perfect vacation spot. There will be things one person likes but another does not. Marriage is all about comprises so this is a good start.
Start Looking Early: It is never too early to start looking at venues, your wedding planner can attest to that. The earlier you are checking venues out the better chance they will be available on your preferred date. Whip out your calendars and start brainstorming. We find it helpful to look at possible venues with your wedding planner all in one day; while it may be overwhelming, you can easily compare each spot one by one.
Let’s Talk Numbers: The cost and the guest count are two numbers to keep in mind when selecting your perfect venue. These figures will help determine the rest of the details: some couples’ celebrations are dictated by the cost and others have open ended budgets. Sit down with your significant other before visiting venues as these numbers will help narrow down what is realistic and what is truly not.
All in the Details: They say the devil is in the details and they are right. Think what kind of style and vibe you want to have. Country chic or a classy urban affair? After a recent visit with a couple looking at venues here are some things to consider you might not have thought of. Are bathrooms easily accessible? Will anyone have mobility issues given the venue selected? Will you have enough seating for elderly guests during the dancing? Is there enough parking nearby for guests wanting to drive? Will the restaurant let you bring in specialty items not on the menu like Grandma’s world famous apple pie? The list goes on and on. This is just the tip of the iceberg but your planner will be there to help you navigate through them all.
Test Drive: Like a car or a new pair of shoes, give it a test drive or try them on for size. If you are considering a reception in a restaurant definitely hit up the restaurant on a busy night and go try the food. Wondering what the light inside a museum space might be like at a certain time for photos? Pay the museum a visit. Make these outings a fun date night; be playful!
At the end of the day your wedding planner can like a place but you have to love it. Go with your gut – it is your wedding and the final decision is always up to the couple. Happy planning!
*Photos courtesy of Sally Pinera, “Molly & Bobby” Newport Country Club, Newport Vermont.
How To: Keep Guests Warm at a Fall Wedding
August 31st, 2016
Fall weddings are full of natural beauty, warm sunshine, beautiful colours and earthy vibes. Although we are sure that your love for your partner warms your guest’s hearts, they may still be a tad bit cold as the night falls! Don’t let your guests shiver… heat up the night with these awesome wedding ideas and tips.
Blankets: offering your guests blankets will make them feel cozy and comfortable, no matter what they’re doing! If they’re taking a break from the dance floor, eating some more cake or just sitting and chatting with friends and family, blankets are a considerate offer to save your guests!
Warm Midnight Snack: as the clock approaches midnight, it is also approaching food o’clock! Keep your guests warm (and energized) with selective food and drink choices!
Bonfire: You’ll get bonus points for this charming picture taking opportunity! As guests huddle around the warm fire, they’ll be thankful for the ignition of your love…and the flames.
Open Bar: no explanation necessary other than we guarantee warmth all night long! No good story starts with a salad, after all …
Of course nothing beats a killer playlist to get your guests to work up a sweat on the dance floor. Hiring a great DJ to spin a wicked playlist is the guaranteed way to keep them moving and having them talk about your amazing Fall wedding for weeks to come!
What to Wear to a Fall Wedding
August 24th, 2016Fall weddings are magical: the leaves are beautifully changing, the colours are stunning, the sun warms the day, and you just can’t beat autumn’s scents! As the transition to winter months is under way (sorry to bring it up), the nights can get a little bit chilly. This inevitably leads to the ultimate question: “What do I wear?!” Have no fear – there are plenty of ways to stay cozy at a wedding while celebrating in the warmth of love!
Cardigans: Although some would rather not cover up their dress, tossing on a cardigan can only add to your fancy frock, not take away from it!
Blazers: For a classier and fancier look, a blazer adds a stylish look that is never out of style.
Pashminas: For a simpler, boho vibe, adding a shawl creates a laid-back but lovely look. Expert tip: these make great gifts or favours for your guests too! Have them monogramed or leave them as is.
Jumpsuits: Two words – fashion and function. Accessorize one of these beauties with a killer pair of shoes and some fantastic jewelry and you’re ready to dance the night away. Best part: you can be covered and fashionable, believe us!
Maxi-Dresses: You may still want a cover up on top, but at least your legs will be protected from the cold night air! 
Long-Sleeve Dresses: These dresses can be so classy, yet so practical. You won’t be sacrificing warmth for fashion!
Tights: Tights are a really funky way to help accentuate your dress and make a bold fashion statement! Don’t be shy – go for bold colours, fun patterns, and exciting textures!
Closed-Toe Shoes: It’s no lie that the most of your body heat escapes from your head and your feet. Even though the days are warm, opt for cute closed-toe shoes so you can also wear a sneaky pair of socks that are made just for flats (or even pack them with you)!
The dog-days of summer might be coming to an end but with options like these we don’t mind at all!
Kaity & Corey
August 19th, 2016| Ceremony & Reception Site: Museum of Nature, 4th Floor Gallery | Caterer: Tulips & Maple | Officiant: Rev. Ernie Cox | DJ: Oxygen Entertainment | Photographer: Joel Bedford Photography | Florals & Decor: Sage Designs | Stationary: Lauren McMullan | Make-Up: Natalie Peachy | Hair : Studio Me Hair Design | Planner: Kennedy Event Planning |
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Amanda & Frankie
May 22nd, 2016| Ceremony: St. Anthony’s of Padua | Reception: Horticultural Building, Landsdowne Park | Caterer: Westin Hotel | Cocktail Band: Tim Bedner | DJ: Oxygen Entertainment Group | Photographer: Fleischer Photography | Videographer: Elle Be Films | Florist: The Design Co. Florals | Linen: Groovy Linen | Decor Rentals: Party Time Rentals, Joe’s Prop House | Cake: Denis “The Cake Guy” | Espresso Caterer: Concept Espresso | Gelato Caterer: Stella Luna | Stationary: Wishtree Invitations + Stationery | Make-Up: Lyz Plant | Hair: Jessica Awad | Planner: Kennedy Event Planning |
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Katie & Matthew
May 20th, 2016| Ceremony & Reception: Canadian Museum of Nature | Officiant: iPronounce You | Hair: Showpony Hair + Spa | Make-Up: One Fine Beauty | Ceremony Musicians: Virtuosi Productions | DJ: Dynamix Productions | Photographer: Grace & Gold Photography | Florist: Flowers Talk Tivoli | Catering: Thyme & Again Catering | Decor & Linen Rentals: Sage Designs | Cake: Thimble Cakes | Planner & Styling: Kennedy Event Planning |
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Cultural Series: Chinese Weddings
March 16th, 2016
In starting to plan for a wedding, couples may desire to honour their own culture. Whether you were heavily influenced by your own culture when growing up or have always wanted a culturally-focused wedding, the decision to incorporate your culture might be a simple one. On the other hand, you prefer to include only specific aspects of your own culture, while excluding others. The great thing about this decision is that it’s your wedding – you get to decide how much or how little you want your wedding to be influenced by your culture.
The first in this blog series will highlight the unique characteristics of Chinese weddings. Traditionally, Chinese weddings are very elaborate and include several major elements including, but not limited to: wedding date fixing, wedding door games, tea ceremony, and the formal wedding ceremony and reception.
Wedding Date Fixing
The Chinese are superstitious by culture, and when thinking of a wedding date, the Chinese lunar calendar is consulted in order to choose a “lucky” day. Typically, the couples’ Chinese zodiac signs will also be taken into consideration in the choice of a wedding date.
Wedding Door Games
Wedding door games usually occur at the start of the wedding day – they’re a great way to start off the day in a fun and light-hearted way! The groom and his groomsmen arrive at the bride’s family home and proceed to complete a series of tasks (set out by the bridesmaids). The groom and his friends do these tasks in order to gain passage into the house and in to see his bride, while the bride is kept hidden inside the house awaiting her groom’s successful entrance. For some ideas on what games to play, click here.
Tea Ceremony
The tea ceremony also occurs the day of the wedding and can either take place at the bride’s home, at the groom’s home, or at both the bride and groom’s separate homes. Historically, the bride would have served tea to her own family privately the morning of the wedding, while the couple would serve tea to the groom’s family after the exchange of vows (after the wedding ceremony). In this modern time, you may choose to have both families (bride and groom’s family) present at one tea ceremony in one house, thus, saving you the travel time between the different houses.
The purpose of the tea ceremony is to show respect to the couple’s families. The order of service is usually parents first, grandparents, grand-uncles and grand-aunties, uncles and aunties, elder brothers and sisters, and then elder cousins. Traditionally, the bride and groom serve the tea to their relatives while kneeling; however, modern families may simply require the couple to bow while serving the tea. In exchange for serving the tea, the couple receives red packets (with money in them) and marriage advice in return.
In terms of attire, bride and groom are required to wear red silk during the tea ceremony; however, these days, the bride is able to wear a traditional Chinese red dress, while the groom can wear his wedding suit.
Formal Ceremony and Reception
After all pre-wedding ceremony activities have taken place, it is then time for the wedding ceremony! The ceremony usually includes the exchange of vows and rings and will vary depending on the couple’s religious affiliations.
Then comes the reception! The reception is usually a big affair and can include a guest list that, on average, can go up to 200 to 350 guests! With that many guests, it becomes that much more important to plan well in advance! The modern Chinese wedding reception includes many of the same elements of a Western wedding reception, including: speeches, a several course meal, games, first dance, cake cutting, as well as the bouquet and garter toss. One element that is unique to Chinese wedding receptions is the bride’s dress change into her traditional Chinese dress. In some cases, the bride will complete 2 different dress changes during the reception, from the white wedding dress, to the traditional Chinese dress, and then to an evening dress.
Reception Food
Chinese wedding receptions usually include 9 to 10 courses, each symbolizing long life and prosperity. There is usually a cold appetizer dish of meat, jelly fish, seaweed, and bean curd. Following the cold appetizer is the shark fin soup, which symbolizes wealth.
After the appetizers, 8 main courses are served – 8 because the Chinese consider this a lucky number! Main courses usually feature fowl that mate for life (i.e., duck or geese). Chicken and duck are usually served because these two fowls represent the balance between the man and the woman in their new relationship. Other main courses served include lobster, which symbolizes joy and celebration as well as sea cucumber, which symbolizes harmony and absence of conflict between the newlywed couple. Something else that is unique to Chinese wedding receptions occurs after the 5th dish is served. Following the 5th dish, the bride and groom along with their families will approach each table and make a toast to their guests. In this way, the couple is able to speak briefly to their guests and thank them for coming!
Whether planning on your own or with the help of a wedding planner, when all these elaborate cultural pieces come together, you’ll have yourself a spectacularly colourful day!
*Photo courtesy of Leah Kua, “Suzie & Ryan” Cotswold, England.
Naked Cakes
June 3rd, 2013If you have been following any of the popular wedding style blogs and magazines, then you probably share our food crush on the biggest trend to hit wedding cakes since cupcakes and donuts: the naked cake!
A naked cake is a classic sponge cake, layered to perfection, un-iced. That’s to say that they don’t have any of the fondant icing or traditional details that you would normally find on a wedding cake. With their sides left au naturel, these adorable naked cakes allow you to see the inside cake layers and all the goodness that they have in between, like icing, cream and fruit, cream cheese frosting, dusted icing sugar, or caramel for example.
With their rise in popularity being attributed to the ever growing trend for rustic themed weddings, it would seem that the naked cake is here to stay. Perfect for a couple who wishes to offer a wedding cake that stands apart from the traditional wedding cake there is a cake trend that may be just the thing. These adorable cakes are ideal for those who aren’t fans of a lot of frosting, are wanting a cake with a unique look, or wish to add it as the perfect Groom’s cake.
Here are some of the top variations on the theme:
If you have the pleasure of living in the Ottawa area, like we do, then you have to try Ottawa’s own It’s a Matter of Cake: Xposed! Made with care and served by local baking guru, Matthew Somers, these amazingly delicious naked cake creations are a must have at your next event. Matt is currently serving up mouth watering flavours that include: the Rocky, Maple Carrot, the Split, and Peanut Butter Crunch. Available at Ottawa Farmer’s Market – Brewer Park, the Flour Shoppe, or by pre-ordering online.
So go pour yourself a big glass of chilled milk and let’s get un-iced – naked wedding cakes are simply about the whole cake and nothing but the cake!
*photos courtesy of Pinterest & It’s a Matter of Cake, “Xposed”, Ottawa, ON
Wedding Dress Styles
May 27th, 2013The most exciting part about a wedding for most brides starts with picking out their wedding dress. For those of you who don’t know what you’re looking for, here are some tips and finding your dream dress. Dresses, just like all types of clothes, are suited to your shape and size; by knowing your body type finding a dress style or shape will be easy. Don’t worry if you’re looking at yourself right now and can’t decide what type of dress would best suit your body and highlight your assets, there are many professional bridal boutiques who can help you, don’t be afraid to seek a professional opinion if you need it.
Let’s start with the basics, there are five main dress styles or shapes: mermaid, a-line, sheath, ball gown, and empire.
The Mermaid or Trumpet: The mermaid dress, the sexiest style there is because it tends to show off all your curves in a style that is fitted all the way down to your knee and then flares out at the bottom. Due to its body hugging style, this dress is recommended to those who are confident in their skin. Curvy, or skinny, either body type can pull off this style.
The A-Line or Princess: For those brides who love the princess look, this is the way to go because it flatters any shape and size as it is fitted at the top and flows down to the ground. It covers the lower section of the body and can balance out those who are a little heavier on the top. The full skirt creates the illusion of curves for those of us who don’t have any and it can.
The Sheath or Column: Just like it’s name, this dress is shaped to flow straight down and not flow out. Recommended for lean brides with a balanced figure as it does tend to hug the body and show off your curves. It is a timeless style and helps elongate the body for those who are quite petite. Keep in mind ladies, this dress is quite tight and might restrict any vigorous.
The Ball Gown: Right out of a fairytale, The ‘Cinderella’ dress. Your guests will actually see you ‘floating on a cloud’ even though you already are on the inside. The dress is made up of a bodice and very full skirt that can flow into a train. It helps accentuate or create a waist line and hides the lower body. However, a large skirt can overpower a slender, petite frame.
The Empire: The most flattering of all dresses with a seam right under the bust and the rest flowing down to the floor. This dress suits any shape and size, it helps those with a small or large bust because it helps accentuate or helps support; those who are pregnant because it is comfortable and flattering; finally, if you’re self conscious about your hips and legs this dress flows down to the ground smoothly.
Necklines can change for nearly every style dress, so don’t worry if you want to have a sweet heart neckline and add or take away straps; speak with a professional tailor, they will be able to direct you in the proper changes to make without losing the integrity of the design. The right dress is out there, we promise, once it is “the one” – you will know!
*photos courtesy of Vera Wang, Bridal Collections (spring & fall 2012-2014).