Arm Yourself for an Outdoor Ceremony!

Wednesday, June 17th, 2009 | weddings | No Comments

When we think of summer, we think of all the good things associated with it. Sunshine, barbeques, camping, popsicles, festivals, and of course weddings! But what we tend to forget are the elements of summer we need to watch out for: insects, rain, sun, dehydration, and road construction.

If you’re planning an outdoor wedding (or attending one), it is a good idea to be prepared. To protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects, there are lots of all natural repellents that won’t smell like you just dipped yourself in deet.

Protect yourself from harmful UV rays by putting on some sunscreen. It only takes a few moments as opposed to a burn which can last up to a week if you’re not careful! Also wearing sunglasses is not only stylish it protects your eyes from harmful UV rays, and decreases wrinkles since you won’t be squinting from the bright sun!

Of course as a wedding planner, it’s our job to tell you, always have a plan B if planning an outdoor wedding! We all love to be optimistic on the outcome of your nuptials, but the one thing none of us can control is Mother Nature.

For hot outdoor weddings, it’s always nice to show up and notice the couple has thought about hydrating their guests. There are fun ways to incorporate this necessity by either having a sticker monogram on a water bottle or if you are environmentally conscious, have reusable water bottles filled with water. But if you are a guest and unsure that the couple will have provided this, then slip one into your purse before you leave home.

We are sticklers for making sure you’re wedding runs on time, so we hope that you have the same concern. During the summer months there is always road construction at the most inopportune time, so give yourself more than enough time to get to your destination on the most special day of your lives. With all the technology available at our finger tips, it may also be a good idea to have an alternate route in mind if traffic becomes appalling.

Last but not least, enjoy this wonderful season and all the great things it has to offer!

Tags: advice, back up plan, favors, favours, insects, outdoor ceremony, outdoor wedding, plan b, rainy wedding, road construction, summer, sunscreen, sunshine, tips, Valeeshia Young

The Bride, formerly known as… To Change or Not To Change?

Thursday, May 21st, 2009 | etiquette, trends, weddings | No Comments

You’re getting married and there’s still that unanswered question; do I change my surname? Changing your name is a very personal decision, and should be considered by both you and your significant other.

Here are some pointers to help you in your decision if you are still unsure of what to do!

– tradition; if you have been following tradition from the beginning of the planning process, this would be the logical decision
– if you have an established career and everyone knows your maiden name, how hard would it be to let your colleagues and clients know that you have decided to change your name?
– there are some brides that use their maiden name professionally, and change their name personally
– if you and your spouse are planning on having children, it would be easier to have the same last name, especially in situations involving their school, travelling abroad, going to the doctor etc.
– if you’re worried about dropping your maiden name because you are the last in your family’s lineage with that name, consider passing it on to one of your children as a first or middle name
– how does your first name sound with his? Does it roll off the tongue, or does it rhyme, making it sound like a children’s book character?
– your maiden name has always been apart of you, but who’s to say that you have to drop it all together, more brides are opting to carry it over as a middle name
– some grooms are even taking their bride’s last name!
– you can always hyphenate your names
– if you are still unsure, a good old pros and cons list can help immensely

Tags: bride name change, Valeeshia Young, wedding Calgary, wedding etiquette

ABC Conference Newport Beach

Friday, December 19th, 2008 | travel, trends | No Comments

Kim, Valeeshia & I recently attended the ABC (Assoc. of Bridal Consultants) Annual Conference in Newport Beach, CA.  It brought together wedding planners from all over the globe – so not only can we stay abreast of the latest and greatest trends in the US – but also find out what the top planners around the world are up to.

There were lots of great workshops, seminars and events. The first evening there was a photo booth on site – which is always a fun addition to any wedding…you’ll get some great & crazy candids of your guests. This particular booth gives a copy to your guests but also keeps on on file so you as host will get a copy of all the photos. So fun!

There was also a “white event” where everyone was required to dress all in white. I personally have done a monochromatic event like this in California – but haven’t done one in Canada…whether you choose white, or black, or even pink…it certainly makes for great group shots.

Tags: ABC Conference, association of bridal consultants, fun wedding planners, Kim Osmars, Lisa Hanslip, Valeeshia Young