The Wedding Ring VANCOUVER ISLAND Spring Summer 2012

VANCOUVER ISLAND

brides unite!GET LOCAL. PLAN

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Spring/Summer 2012

PuBlisHed By The Wedding Ring VANCOUVER ISLAND 3341 Boyle’s Road, Cobblehill BC V0R 1L7 | 1.888.793.1687 [email protected] www.vancouverisland.theweddingring.ca

The Wedding Ring Magazine Vancouver Island is published two times, yearly: January and August. This is The Wedding Ring Magazine VANCOUVER ISLAND’s 1st magazine.

Online www.theweddingring.ca/magazine

magaZine sTaFF

Laura Kalcsa [email protected], The Wedding Ring Vancouver Island Senior Editor | Features Editor | Sales

Heather Welychko [email protected] Editor | Features Editor

Jennifer Goulden [email protected], Wedding Ring Inc. | Editor in Chief | Layout & Design

Anne Warren [email protected], Wedding Ring Inc.

Rhianna Jackiw [email protected] Management & Editor

Anita Stefanovic [email protected] Design | Layout & Design Assistant

cOVer PHOTO Vivid Photographywww.vividphotography.ca | [email protected] | 250.591.5549

Cover BrideStephanie Westbroek-Livingston

THanK yOu!Thank you to the brides, wedding experts and associate writers and editors who have con-tributed to this issue of The Wedding Ring Magazine VANCOUVER ISLAND.

Numerous wedding professionals have contributed expert tips, retail or rental products, popular décor and/or photography services for the various features in this issue. Each profes-sional is credited in their respective feature article. The statements, opinions and points of view expressed do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, advertisers or Wedding Ring Inc. or The Wedding Ring Vancouver Island. Photographs are submitted to Wedding Ring Inc. by vendors for the purpose of publishing online and/or in print and are used with permission.

© 2012 Wedding Ring Inc. and The Wedding Ring Vancouver Island. Contents copyrighted. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without written permission from Wedding Ring Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Printed in Canada.

{ eXPerTs wanTed } adVerTising OPPOrTuniTiesIf you’re a wedding professional who raises the bar on service, rewrites the definition of couture or offers products that every bride should have, we’d love to work with you. The Wedding Ring can help you reach your target brides, share (and show off) your expertise, and make headlines in The Ring { magazine, website & community }. For more information, please contact Laura Kalcsa ([email protected]) or make a general inquiry at [email protected]. For The Ring's online media kit, go to www.theweddingring.ca/for-vendors.

We’ve done the research so that brides don’t have to. Who does what and why we love them... Options, specialties, pricing, samples of work, bride interviews and more... Read interviews and reviews or post one of your own!

1. Wake up, pour coffee, log in. 2. Check replies to last night’s chat posts. 3. Read PMs. 4. Approve new friends. 5. Add potential invitation design and top three

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6. Post kudos on the photographer I hired last night.

7. Become a fan of my photographer’s fan group.

8. Surf the tuxedo gallery. Then the cake gallery. Then the flower gallery.... 9. Read reviews on florists and save favourites.10. Check out the show calendar and latest

experts’ trends reports.

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Winner will be drawn June 1st, 2012 and will be notified by email. Be sure to add [email protected] to your accepted senders list.

BEAUTYsHarOn rai Hair & maKeuP arTisTry105-2745 Veterans memorial ParkwayVictoria, Bc – (250) [email protected]

BRIDAL SHOWSBRIDAL EXHIBITIONSFeatured @ TheWeddingRing.ca1-888-501-9696www.bridal.ieginc.cabridalexhibition@ieginc.ca

CAKES & CUPCAKESOOH la la cuPcaKes619 Broughton st., Victoria(250) 590-8019713 goldstream ave., unit a, Victoria(250) 478-07041391a Hillside ave., Victoria(250) 385-07079744 Third st., sidney(250) [email protected]

DECOR/RENTALSdesigner weddings & sPecial OccasiOn renTals1410 wild cherry drive, Victoria250-478-2505www.designerweddingsvictoria.comdesignerweddingsrentals@gmail.com

FAVOUR IDEASrOgers cHOcOlaTes913 government street, Victoria(250) 881-87712423 Beacon ave., sidney(250) 655-03052234 Oak Bay ave., Victoria(250) 598-29114253 commerce circle, Victoria(250) [email protected]

FLORAL DESIGNERSBIRD OF PARADISE FLORAL BOUTIQUEReviewed @ TheWeddingRing.ca 780a-13th ave., campbell river(250) 287-8828www.birdofparadisefloral.netwww.campbellriverweddings.netbirdofp@telus.net

FOXglOVes FlOwersReviewed @ TheWeddingRing.ca (250) [email protected]

PLATINUM FLORAL DESIGNSReviewed @ TheWeddingRing.ca (250) 382-1900www.platinumfloraldesigns.com

GOWNS & BRIDAL ATTIREBIRD OF PARADISE WEDDING BOUTIQUEReviewed @ TheWeddingRing.ca780a-13th ave., campbell river(250) 287-8828www.birdofparadisefloral.netwww.campbellriverweddings.netbirdofp@telus.net

THE BRIDES CLOSETReviewed @ TheWeddingRing.ca279 selby street, nanaimo(250) [email protected]

VICTORIA BRIDAL BOUTIQUEReviewed @ TheWeddingRing.ca#2 3948 Quadra street, Victoria(250) [email protected]

GOWNS - CUSTOM DESIGNmaureen PaTricia designer833 ½ Fort street, Victoria(250) 590-6264www.wix.com/couturehouse/[email protected]

LOCATIONS: WEDDING CEREMONIES & RECEPTIONS

BEST WESTERN PREMIER PRESTIGE OCEANFRONT RESORTReviewed @ TheWeddingRing.ca6929 west coast road, sooke(250) 642-0805Hotel reservations 1-877-737-8443www.prestigehotelsandresorts.comsookeconventions@prestigehotels.ca

BLACK ROCK OCEANFRONT RESORTReviewed @ TheWeddingRing.ca596 marine drive, ucluelet1-877-762-5011www.blackrockresort.comreservations@blackrockresort.com

THe BuTcHarT gardens800 Benvenuto avenue, Brentwood Bay, Bc(250) 652-4422 or [email protected]

craigdarrOcH casTle1050 joan crescent, Victoria, Bc(250) [email protected]

THe FairmOnT emPress HOTel721 government street, [email protected]

KingFisHer Oceanside resOrT & sPa4330 island Highway, courtenay1-800-663-7929www.kingfisherspa.cominfo@kingfisherspa.com

POeTs cOVe resOrT & sPa9801 spalding road, south Pender island1-888-512-POeT(7638) or (250)[email protected]

sHelTer POinT disTillery4650 regent road, campbell river1-778-420-2200www.shelterpointdistillery.cominfo@shelterpointdistillery.com

sT. ann’s academy naTiOnal HisTOric siTe835 Humboldt street, Victoria(250) [email protected]

TraVelOdge duncan140 Trans canada Highway, [email protected]

VILLA MARCO POLO INNReviewed @ TheWeddingRing.ca1524 shasta Place, Victoria(250) 370-1524 or [email protected]

PHOTOGRAPHERScrysTal clear PHOTOgraPHy(250) 792-2575www.crystalclearphotography.cacrystal@crystalclearphotography.ca

deanna mccOllum PHOTOgraPHy(250) [email protected]

greg HOward PHOTOgraPHy(250) [email protected]

island liFe PHOTOgraPHics(250) 204-2833www.islandlifephotographics.cominfo@islandlifephotographics.comKgOOd PHOTO1-778-678-5357www.kgoodphoto.com

nicHOle TaylOr PHOTOgraPHy(250) 360-6032www.nicholetaylorphotography.cominfo@nicholetaylorphotography.com

SZYMON SZYMCZAKOWSKIReviewed @ TheWeddingRing.caucluelet(250)[email protected]

VIVID PHOTOGRAPHYReviewed @ TheWeddingRing.casuite #5-10 commercial street, nanaimo(250) [email protected]

REGISTRYHOme FOr THe HOneymOOn1-877-880-0046www.homeforthehoneymoon.commarion@homeforthehoneymoon.com

TUXEDOS & FORMAL WEARBlacK & lee TuXedO & suiT renTals/sales50-797 Hillside avenue, Victoria(250)380-970011-6894 island Highway north, nanaimo(250)390-2202stores across Vancouver islandwww.blackandlee.com

VIDEOGRAPHERSKgOOd PHOTO1-778-678-5357www.kgoodphoto.com

guide to experts

FeaTured, researcHed & reViewed in THeweddingring.calOcal eXPerTs

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! • 3

The Wedding Ring is best known for its research and reviews on local wedding experts. We do the research so that you don’t have to! Many reviewed vendors in The Ring... • Are award winners • Have multiple degrees & accreditations • Are members of selective organizations • Do regular charity work • Are teachers & mentors in their craft • Have appeared in television news & wedding segments

Andrew Bley knew he wanted to marry Morgan Evans on Thursday December 13, 2007. It was his birthday and he and Morgan were having dinner at his brother Mike’s house. They had been introduced by Mike in the summer of 2005 and dated casually, but as Andrew was living and working in Alberta, they thought it best to just stay in touch as friends. So it had been some time since they had seen each other in person and Andrew knew he would remember that birthday for the rest of his life. Morgan felt the same, but for her, it was the first night at home after the birth of their son that the thought of forever truly set into her heart. “Andrew couldn’t take his eyes off of him and it was so moving. I just remember…never wanting to know life without them.”

Andrew proposed on June 3, 2009, the day of Morgan’s graduation from Simon Fraser University. It was a balmy 30 degrees and they barely made it through the indoor campus ceremony. After spending all morning uncomfortably hot, the last thing they wanted to do was return to their equally sweltering house. Andrew, deciding that he couldn’t bear another second without air

conditioning, got them a room at the Pan Pacific. Upon entering the ocean view room, Morgan thought nothing of the red roses and chilled champagne carefully set up on the table. She was just so relieved to finally be comfortable it never occurred to her that perhaps this was Andrew’s plan all along. So it was no surprise that she practically tripped over Andrew, who was knelt on the ground, on her way back from freshening up. “What are you doing?” she asked. Of course, her concerns were quickly answered when Andrew presented her with a flawless diamond solitaire in white gold that he selected on his own. Needless to say, she said yes and they enjoyed a very romantic summer evening in the air conditioned Pan Pacific.

The pair began planning their wedding day with their hearts set on a destination wedding. Unfortunately, their idea was vetoed by key family members, so they decided to create the most memorable in-town wedding they could. Everything in the early planning stages came together very organically. They chose to have their ceremony at Saint Michael’s University School in Victoria. Morgan had attended boarding school there and had particularly fond memories of the campus chapel,

where they exchanged their vows. The reception took place at Uplands Golf Club, where Andrew and many of his family and friends had long been members. To them it was a “home a few blocks from home.” Morgan loved the “classic feel of art deco styling.” They were both huge fans of music from the Big Band/Rat Pack era and so, in combination with the venue, it seemed quite natural that they would choose an “Old Hollywood” theme for their wedding. To create the environment of that era, they decided on elements such as feather table centerpieces, huge diamonds on the table and a glittery backdrop. The groomsmen all wore black, getting their tuxes from Black and Lee (www.blackandlee.com), and were a great compli-ment to the black v-neck cocktail dresses by Maggie London for Nordstrom worn by the bridesmaids. All the dresses had bows at one side of the waist and all the tuxes were worn with black bowties. Andrew wore an ivory vest and white bowtie, distinguishing himself from the pack. Morgan got her wedding dress at Lisa’s Bridal in New Westminster (and was a steal at $895 brand new). In keeping with the theme, Morgan fashioned a gorgeous fascinator (also a Lisa’s Bridal purchase) with some netting she found for a great price from Etsy online, and was able to create a birdcage look. After having her makeup

Photography by Deanna McCollum Photography (www.deannamccollum.com)Story by TheWeddingRing.ca

4 • The Wedding Ring Magazine VANCOUVER ISLAND | www.vancouverisland.theweddingring.ca

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an Old HOllywOOd wedding Full OF Family and Fun

OcTOBer 15, 2011 :: uPlands gOlF cluB, VicTOria, Bc

“My advice for future brides: Un-less you are doing something small and/or very casual, hire a wedding planner. Even just to do the day-of planning, like I did. It was worth ev-ery single penny to not have to worry about the details on the big day, and to avoid having to ask too much of your friends and family for help.”

“If I could go back and do it again, I would have taken much better care of myself in the days leading up to the wedding. Tons of water, Cold FX, lots and lots of sleep and good meals. Then I could have fought off my toddler’s cold and felt a little more energized on the big day.”- Morgan

done by Melanie Baird (www.melaniebaird.ca) and her hair by Amber Geerdink ([email protected]) she was indeed ready for the countless close-ups to come. To make sure that all the day-of décor details were taken care of, Morgan and Andrew chose wedding coordinator, By Design Weddings and Events Custom Creations (www.bydesignvictoria.com). They made sure that the Hollywood look was maintained throughout, hanging ceiling pom-poms, set-

ting up the centerpieces and pretty much anything else needed to ensure all aspects of decoration were taken care of. Linens and rentals were provided by Linda Payne of Designer Weddings and Special Occasion Rentals (www.designerweddingsvictoria.com).

By Design recommended Deanna McCollum Photography (www.deannamccollum.com) to cover the moments of the day. Andrew and Morgan loved how comfortable Deanna made them feel during the engagement and wedding shots and say that Deanna really brought out the best in them. “Deanna is ideal for anyone who tends to worry they aren’t photogenic or finds getting their photo taken a bit uncomfortable.”

One of the most remarkable aspects of Morgan and Andrew’s wedding was the strong emphasis on family and fun that could be felt throughout. In fact, Morgan’s mom, who is an excellent baker, took on the task of making the wedding cake. Together, Morgan and her mom did the chapel floral arrangements themselves. Morgan admits though, that it was her mom who helmed the project: “My mom told me where to cut, tie a bow, etc. She really deserves all the credit for the majority of the day’s

creative elements” (including the breathtaking flower arrangements at the front of the chapel). On her way down the aisle, the bride stopped to give her mom a kiss on the cheek.

Throughout the ceremony you could also hear Morgan and Andrew’s little boy calling out for his parents as he enjoyed his giant red lollipop, and the guests loved it. Everyone also got a kick out of the fact that the best man, Andrew’s brother Mike, forgot the rings in the foyer. He had to slip out before the start of the ceremony to retrieve them, only to have the door lock behind him when he tried to return. Every-one laughed, although the bride had no idea it had happened as Mike slipped back in, following the bride and her father down the isle. The staff at By Design Weddings and Events said that many guests “remarked that it was the most fun they’d ever had at a wedding ceremony.”

Because the day was more about having fun and spending time with loved ones, any blips they encountered along the way were dealt with gracefully. The final guest count was 140, until a week before the wedding, when there were several cancel-lations due to a horrible cold that was going around. Morgan was even sick and admitted that “if it wasn’t my wedding, I would have cancelled too!” But that didn’t stop her from enjoying her special day.

Morgan and Andrew were thrilled with how their wedding turned out. Morgan could never understand when people would describe their wedding day as this ethereal event that felt like a dream. But that’s exactly how it was. “Just a haze of beautiful, emotional, joyous and overwhelming moments strung together to make one blurry but phenomenal day.” We are certain that this is just the beginning of their phenomenal days together, and much like the Old Hollywood theme of their wedding, we are confidant their bond will stand the test of time, full of love and laughs along the way..” ■

Andrew couldn’t take his eyes off of our new son and it was so moving. I just remember…never

wanting to know life without them.


From the moment Alex Parsons tipped his cowboy hat to Krystal Stevenson at a barn dance one summer evening, he knew he had found someone special. Alex pulled Krystal onto the dance floor and the two of them doe-see-doed the night away. Krys-tal was equally charmed by Alex, but it was after the barn dance ended that she was convinced she had found her soul mate. While slowly dancing to Josh Gracin’s, “Stay With Me,” playing on the radio in Alex’s truck, Alex leaned in and kissed Krystal, and the rest, as they say, is history. Six years to the date of that first meeting (and three children later) they were married.

It was during a surprise party for Alex’s 30th birthday that he proposed to Krystal. He took her outside and in front of both their moms asked her “to make me an hon-est man.” Krystal laughed and their mothers cried. Needless to say, it couldn’t have been a more perfect moment.

It didn’t take much discussion to decide on a country themed wedding. Seeing as they met at a barn dance and were getting married on the anniversary of their first meeting, recreating that first night seemed like a perfect way to celebrate spending the rest of their lives together.

They chose to hold the ceremony at Alex’s parents’ home, loving the country feel and beautiful scenery it offered. Alex’s parents had been together since they were 14 years old. “My home is a place that taught me what marriage is all about,” Alex told The Ring. His father, Dale, had built the large pond in front of which the ceremony took place. Nature was the only real decoration, stacking five bales of wheat on either side of the aisle where the wedding party stood. Another easy decision was the recep-tion location, Merville Hall, which was very close and could easily accommodate their 130 guests (not to mention serve as a great venue for the dancing that would undoubtedly ensue).

Krystal knew right away that she wanted yellow - a vibrant summer color - to be a central element. Building on that, they enlisted a few family members to grow sun-flowers and baskets of flowers. The food was also prepared by their families including a big pot of chilli, homemade buns, an assortment of desserts and much more. The couple’s close friend, Vicky Sawchuck, made the cake which was a great tie in to the

theme. Vicky crafted a buckle out of fondant which wrapped around the middle with their initials. She even went so far as to twist the fondant to look like rope, which sat at the base of each layer of the cake. For some of the hall’s decorations, they brought in Krylea Creative Solutions (www.kcsevents.com) design company - although the bride, groom and their entourage did do a lot of decorating themselves. The table arrangements were bundles of hay with a thick champagne coloured silk ribbon tied in a bow. To top it all off, they placed sunflower heads along each table.

Alex and Krystal treated guests to a candy table with different types of candy in vari-ous shapes of glass jars and bowls, augmenting the fun vibe of the reception.

The candy colors (yellow, pink, white and brown) highlighted the playful mood of the day. The kids especially loved the big lollipops.

Photography by Crystal Clear Photography (crystalclearphotography.ca) Story by TheWeddingRing.ca

a dOwn HOme cOunTry wedding

augusT 21sT, 2010 :: dale and leanne ParsOns’ residence & merVille Hall in merVille, Bc

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In keeping with the yellow theme, the bridal party all wore yellow dresses with a bow in the back and cowboy boots. The groomsmen donned Western style tuxedos from Jim’s Clothes Closet (www.jimsclothescloset.com), along with cowboy hats and boots.

Krystal found a simple dress she loved and slipped into her cowboy boots. One of her fondest memories of the day was seeing her sons Austin and Jace entering together dressed identically in matching cow-boy hats, shirts, jeans and boots. Austin then left his brother to be at the

front. Seeing her son standing with the groomsmen smiling at his mom as she walked down the aisle, “as if he knew the plan and was standing up for his dad” truly made her heart melt.

Another unforgettable moment happened during the reception. Krystal stood up and sang the Josh Gracin song “Stay with Me” that they had danced to during that first kiss six years ago. We are pretty certain that both Krystal and Alex’s mothers reprised their crying from the engagement evening several months back.

Of course, what’s a wedding without a little drama? The band they had booked four months prior (and were incredibly excited about), cancelled on them the night before the wedding. But luckily, the band had the name of another group that might be able to play. The backup band turned out to be just as great.

Fortunately, the photography went very smoothly. Crystal of Crystal Clear Photography did the pictures, bringing with her a great sense of fun and creativity. “Crystal was so amazing in every

way you hope your wedding photographer would be. She was patient & under-standing. She had great ideas for the photos... She was also up for whatever our ideas were. She has an incredible sense of humor... We laughed a lot.”

Krystal’s mother, along with their four year old daughter, Layla,walked her down the aisle (Layla was actually the flower girl but having contracted a horrible cold the night before, she had a fever and Krystal thought it best she stick by her mom). However, before proceeding down the aisle, Krystal and her mom lit a candle for Krystal’s dad (who had passed away from cancer in 2008). “It symbol-ized that he was walking with us.” Neil Young’s Harvest Moon was playing as they walked, her parents’ favourite song, the fond memories of them playing it over and over in their family home still very much with her.

Krystal and Alex’s wedding day was about simplicity and celebrating family. From the home cooked meal, handmade decorations to the thoughtful remem-brances during the ceremony and reception, this wedding was about spending time with the people they loved. Even after the band, left guests weren’t ready to go home. Alex’s brother Lance and a family friend, pulled out the guitar and continued to play and sing well into the wee hours of the morning.

Krystal says it was the incredible help from all their family and friends that pre-vented them from stressing out and allowed them to enjoy the day. She couldn’t have been happier with the way it all turned out. “We wanted to do something different from the traditional wedding. I loved every second of it! I wouldn’t change a thing.” ■


When Alex proposed, we both had our family and friends there with us. He pulled me outside with both our moms there and asked me to make him a honest man... We both laughed and our mothers cried.

What an amazing moment a proposal is! And, lately, newly engaged couples are having that special moment immortalized through photos. Proposal photography represents the start of the wedding story and couples are often sending out the images with the engagement announcement to friends and family.

Here on Vancouver Island, photographer Deanna McCollum has loved her experiences with surprise proposal photography. One groom, Jack, hailed from Texas and contacted Deanna well ahead of time to work out a plan.

Deanna staked out a bench by the big stone bridge that Jack and she had prearranged. Dean-na set out the special “Jack and Jill” magazine, for Jill to find. Jack had spent hours designing an issue with them and Jill’s dog, Jackson, in wedding attire on the cover. Deanna then ducked into the gardens across the pond from the bench to capture the proposal action!

After they had some time to themselves, Deanna met them on the bridge. “I admit I near-ly started to cry when I finally met them in person for the first time and Jack gave me a hug. Of course, I had to hug Jill too. Such a wonderful moment! We spent the next hour taking some engagement portraits around the park. This nursery rhyme had a perfect ending!”

Deanna points out that the smile on a woman’s face when she is being proposed to is something you just can’t recreate! Often the couple remembers the whole experience as kind of a blur and love having the photos as a lasting memory. And we love the photos that are taken immediately after - they are filled with a special sort of magic between the couple. So guys, think about proposal photography as an option when you are planning for that big moment. ■

wHaT is Big, PinK and FaBulOus? The Wedding Ring along with Bridal Exhibition and Home for the Honeymoon are happy to announce the DIAMOND DASH contest coming in September 2012! You can look forward to oodles of vendors, giveaways, localcharities, live streaming, clues and costumes! Set your phones for nextfall as you and your honey join us for the fun! More details to come @ www.vancouverisland.theweddingring.ca!

PrOPOsal PHOTOgraPHyStory by the Ring and Deanna McCollum Photography (www.deannamccollum.com)

ISLAND BRIDESVancouver Island brides have the world at their feet! Unrivalled natural beauty, historic architecture and modern glamour make up this sought-after destination. Local photographers, decorators, plan-ners, gown designers, gown shops, make-up artists, florists and photographers all came together with The Ring to show the best of Vancouver Island bridal style.

fashion & style

fashion & style

VancOuVer island


Silk gown is couture constructed by local Victoria designer, Maureen Patricia. The natural fabrics of this gown add to the light and flowy feeling that makes it a perfect for the beach or garden wedding. Maureen Patricia gowns are available online (www.maureenpatricia.com). You can also view the collection in person at 833 ½ Fort St. in Victoria. 250.590.6264. Image captured by photographer, Greg Howard (www.greghoward.ca), who prides himself on capturing love in pictures.

LOCATION: Madrona Beach, ParksvilleFLOWERS: Purely FlowersPHOTO: Greg Howard Photography

LOCATIONVilla Marco Polo Inn (www.villamarcopolo.com) is one of Victoria’s most luxurious and romantic spots to hold a sophisticated event. Built in 1923 as a gift for a young bride, it is now an elegant choice for honeymoons, romantic getaways and weddings.

THE LOOKThis romantic gown is from Victoria Bridal Boutique (www.victoriabridalboutique.com). It’s a Mori Lee Blu 4524, a Luxe Taffeta strapless sweetheart wedding gown with a full gathered ballroom skirt, and train in back.

The dramatic, victorian bouquet of purple dendro-bium orchids, black baccara and intuition roses and purple eucalyptus leaves was designed by Tina of Platinum Floral Designs (www.platinumfloraldesigns.com).

PHOTOGRAPHYPhotography by Nichole Taylor (www.nicholetaylorphotography.com)


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HAIR & MAKE-UPHair and make-up are provided by Marion (photo below), Owner of Ma-luxe Studios (www.maluxe.squarespace.com).

Marion says, “For the creative bride I suggest layering necklaces, jewels and other orna-mentation in the hair. A good Styl-ist who specializes

in bridal should be able to create a custom-designed headpiece for you. Channel your inner fashionista for a look to remember!”

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Best Western Premier Prestige Oceanfront Resort(www.prestigehotelsandresorts.com) full service resort offering breathtaking views of Sooke Harbor.

THE LOOK This flirty, strapless, taffeta and tulle A-line destina-tion wedding dress with softly curved neckline is a Mon Cheri Destinations, Style 211189, found at Victoria Bridal Boutique (www.victoriabridalboutique.com). It’s a directionally draped taffeta bodice accented with three-dimensional flowers. The tulle skirt is adorned with scattered cut-out taffeta and organza flowers on high-low hemline and sweep train.

FLOWERSThe flowers by Platinum Floral Designs (www.platinumfloraldesigns.com) are unique, arranged in a vintage silver-plated bouquet holder with purple calla lilies, orange and red mokara orchids with assorted berries.

HAIR & MAKE-UPMarion of Ma-luxe (www.maluxe.foursquare.com) created a vintage hair style which transformed long hair into a 50’s era up-do.

PHOTOGRAPHYNichole, of Nichole Taylor Photography (nicholetaylorphotography.com), loved capturing the glamour and charm of the resort and bride.


fashion & style


FLOWERS This exquisite hand-tied bouquet (upper photo, left) is filled with cherry brandy roses, accented with diamante pins, the entire piece designed by Stephen Chapman of Bird of Paradise Floral Boutique (www.birdofparadisefloral.net).

A white rose bouquet (lower photo, left) is dramatic with ostrich feathers and diamantes.

DRESSING FOR THE CEREMONY This traditional, strapless full length Venus gown (photo, left) with crystal pick-ups in the skirt and mid-length train is perfect for the ceremony. The veil, by Bridal Lane, features Swarovski crystal edging.

HAIR & MAKE-UPMandy Neil of Headquarters Hair Studio and Day Spa did hair and make-up (www.headquartershairstudio.ca). Award winning photographer, Lee Simmons, of Island Life Photographics (www.islandlifephotographics.com) enjoyed capturing the beauty of the distillery and the bride.

Shelter Point Distillery (www.shelterpointdistillery.com) offers an unforgettable and unique event experience, located in Campbell River, BC.

The short, strapless taffeta mini dress (main image) with dropped waist and bubble skirt (for dancing the night away!) is a Venus 6663, found at Bird of Paradise Bridal (www.birdofparadisefloral.net).

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THE LOOK Summer bride, Allison, models Allure C170 from The Bride’s Closet (www.thebridescloset.com). This strapless, organza ball gown features a sweetheart neckline and corseted bodice embellished with Swarovski crystals channelling your inner diva! The skirt has soft pick-up details accented with flowers which flows and accentuates your curves. Crystal hairpiece by Bridal Classic and Veil by Jade Daniels.

Hair by Maffeo Studios (www.maffeosalon.ca). Brian’s vision was a romantic, soft up-do to com-pliment the grandeur of St. Ann’s.

PHOTOGRAPHYBride and venue were captured by photographer, Nichole Taylor (nicholetaylorphotography.com). Nichole’s favourite times as a photographer are when she can feel the love in front of her lens.


St. Ann’s Academy National Historic Site (www.stannsacademy.com) – originally designed in 1858 this chapel has been rededicated for civil and multi-faith ceremonies. The splendour of the gardens and buildings are unequalled in Victoria and allow for receptions on site.

TOP 5 FaV THings1. ALFRED SUNG IVORY SASH (photo, below). This sash is gorgeous and can be used to embellish a simple gown or just add a little bit of bling. This sash can be found at The Bride’s Closet (www.thebridescloset.com) in Nanaimo.

2. LACE IS BACK! (photos, right: gown and purple lace) We love that lace has made a comeback! Lace on your gown, accessories or decor lends detail and delicacy to your look. It’s also a beautiful way to bring tradition, history and romance into your wedding day. Table linens, especially, have appeared in a variety of tone-on-tone laces.

3. CHOCOLATE! Specifically, Rogers Chocolates (photo, right). The first Rogers Chocolates (www.rogerschocolates.com) were made in Victoria in 1885! Now Rogers Chocolates offers customized chocolates in favour boxes, available in three sizes. A customized message is imprinted in the colour of your choice on top of each box and then individually bowed with a gold or silver ribbon.

4. SOLE MATES: These are a must-have for outdoor weddings (or any outdoor affair for that matter). Sole Mates help prevent the ladies from sinking new heels into soft ground - and cobblestones, bricks, and subway grates. They’re reusable, come in clear, black, gold sparkles and silver sparkles, and attach easily to most stiletto and kitten heels. By increasing the surface area on the base of the heel, it reduces the pressure on this area and prevents the heel from sinking into grass and falling into cracks. Photo (above, right) by Stan Switalski Photography (www.stanswitalski.com)

5. HEADBAND. This vintage headband suits the romantic hair styles most brides are favouring. Carbonneau headband features exquisite crystals and pearls. Available at Victoria Bridal Boutique. (www.victoriabridalboutique.com)

Trend: gOOd wisH Trees Greg Howard Photography, your love in pictures.

The traditional guest book and pen set seems to be used less andless these days. Brides and grooms are trending towards ideas that reflecttheir personalities, style or theme. We love the video guest book, theengagement session coffee table album, and the photo matting for signaturesof all your guests. But many couples are looking for ideas that are morepersonalized. Above, a woodland theme inspired best wishes to be written on“lovebirds” that were then hung on a tree. Original and unique!

alTernaTiVe regisTries

When it comes to gift registries – try thinking outside the box! You might be surprised to find your very favourite store may have a wedding registry. Home for the Honeymoon (www.homeforthehoneymoon.com) is based on Vancouver Island and is an international wedding registry where guests can give GIFTS TOWARDS THE DOWN PAYMENT ON YOUR FUTURE HOME! Or, perhaps, you would also like to have guests donate to local charities of your choice? Canada Helps has set up Giving Pages for your wedding registry. They also provide fun ways to sup-port charity at your wedding. We love the idea of a DONATION JAR FOR KISSES instead of clinking glasses!! (www.canadahelps/givingpages.org)

ideas & trends


wedding ideas & Trends FrOm wedding eXPerTs and THe Team @ THe ring.

VideO inViTaTiOns & saVe THe daTesAn expert tip by staff @ The Ring along with Kelsey Goodwin(www.kgoodphoto.com)

Save a tree, send a video! These days, the trendy way to announce you’re getting hitched (and we’re invited) is a video save-the-date or wedding invitation. Usually, videos are set to a sappy love song and feature hazy shots of the couple, but recently, full-out mini-epics by nearlyweds are gaining popularity. Totally sweet (and rather eco-frindly too!). Your photographer/videography can help you turn your ideas into something truly professional and viral worthy!

So what are some ideas? If you simply google ‘wedding invite video’ or ‘save the date video’, you will touch onto a worldwide phenomenon! We love the hilarious epic movie trailers, Charlie Chapman remakes, romantic bicycle vintage themes, stop-motion and everything in between. You can personalize a video in a way that would be difficult through traditional invitations.

Why not send video updates throughout your wedding planning? Some have sent out updates when buying the dress, showers, bachelor parties, tux fittings etc. The sky is the limit! And all of it can be used for the reception movie. And don’t forget the final video – the wedding itself, sent out to guests after the fact. The perfect wedding favour!

And, instead of watching all the footage every time, your photographer/videographer may be able to provide you with a highlight reel of the entire experience using video/photograph fusion. We love this idea!

2012 TuXedO & suiT TrendsAn expert tip by The Ring and Black & Lee Tuxedo and Suit Rentals and Sales (www.blackandlee.com)

Grooms have a lot of options to say ‘I do’ in style! We love the trends with colour, vests, ties and shoes. Remember, if you want to look great on the big day, you have to choose a

look that fits you. Generally, a single-breasted tuxedo will make you appear leaner while a tuxedo with a low button stance is for those who are not as tall. If you happen to be lean and tall? Then you can wear just about anything!

If you are choosing to go trendy, then look at bright colours or patterned vests, pocket squares and ties or a pinstripe. Cummerbunds and bow ties are also making a comeback. Traditional options still include the notch or peak lapel tuxedo coat with a subdued colored vest, traditional black tie and non pleated pants with the thin stripe.

Another trend that we love is the groom making different fashion choices than his groomsmen! The groom could choose to have an alternative vest or tie. Perhaps having the guys in vests while he wears a cummerbund. Or, the groom could wear a color opposite that of his groomsmen.

A great trend is using suits instead of tuxedos for the more casual wedding. Black & Lee offers suit rentals which would work well for those guys who don’t wear formalwear very often! Or the groom who wants a beige suit for the destination or beach wedding. Of course, some guys choose to purchase their suit or tuxedo so that they have formalwear for their newly married life!

Don’t forget that last touch – the boutonniere! Men are still wearing the traditional bloom but there are options with having an additional flower or greenery to set the groom apart or having unique blooms on all the guys!

Check out the creations of local Victoria-based photographer and videographer, Kelsey Goodwin, at www.kgoodphoto.com.

idea

s & tr

ends

Colleen O’Farrell of www.foxglovesflowers.com is a sought after floral merchant and designer who’s shop is said to be “Where artful inspirations and beautiful blooms collide.”

wHaT TO cOnsider wHen cHOOsing FlOwers Find something that inspires you, whether it is a sleek and contemporary architectural drawing, a piece of antique lace fabric or a vintage 50’s suitcase. Use that as a jumping off point to set the theme for the rest of the event. Some of the most interesting and creative weddings I have worked on have developed from a simple object. Share your ideas with your florist and let them be inspired too!

dOuBle duTy FlOralsMake your flowers do double duty. If you are having your ceremony and reception in separate venues, why not use your table centre pieces as décor down the aisle too? Or use the large arrangements from the ceremony to flank the head table? Your bouquets will make great table centrepieces for the head table when repurposed in appropriate vases. This will al-low you to stretch your budget and maybe allow you to splurge on those expensive blooms that you have your heart set on! Keep in mind you may have to hire your florist to transport and set up your florals between your venues, especially if there is a time crunch on the big day!

2012

“This site is so fantasic for finding venues and inspiration. Thank you somuch!” - Maria H, May 24 2011

“Thanks for all of your hard work putting this site together I am sureothers appreciate this. Well thought through, easy to navigate, and givesyou more support than you ever knew could exist through a wedding site.Thanks.” - Jessica, May 13 2011

“Great website, very useful - especially for a bride like me planning awedding in [one city] but living in [another]!” - Josie, May 2 2011

“I’ve relied on and trusted The Ring for EVERY vendor we’ve hired for thewedding so far... The reviews are so informative andin-depth... it’s as if all the investigative work has been done for me!I’ve already (and will continue to) recommend The Ring to every new brideI meet!! I’m a fan guys!! Keep up the great work!!” - Lisa, May 1 2011

“She had great ideas and understood what I was hoping to achieve. Even when I changed my mind three times and the types of flowers, she always offered up great solutions to my frantic bride-zilla moments! ...Her work is both unique and

timeless in the same breath. I wanted a mix of old traditions and new concepts, modern flowers and flowers that my grandma would recognize… Tina pulled it all together.” Erin, from interview on Platinum Floral Design(www.platinumfloraldesigns.com)

“It felt like we were hanging out with friends.They’ve got a creative way about capturing weddings. When looking at their samples, we saw there was an edge, and dramatic beauty to their work. We have some incredible shots that can only be described as epic”- Jon and Christina, from interview on Vivid Photography (www.vividphotography.ca)

“Deanna McCollum was recommended to us... I was very confident that we had found a good match. Deanna was... effortless to be around... I was so pleased with the engage-ment shots, and that doesn’t even begin to describe how I felt after seeing the wedding shots.” - Morgan, from interview on photogra-pher, Deanna McCollum (www.deannamccollum.com)


An expert tip by Stephen Chapman for Bird of Paradise Floral and Wedding Boutique (www.birdofparadisefloral.net), Campbell River

DO try to choose flower selections that are part of most professional florist’s regular inventory. Once you start requesting premium material, such as full open cut white calla, specialty orchids and blooms such as stephanotis, these will drastically increase your overall costs.DON’T choose a date for your wedding near any holiday times if budget is an issue. Flowers are very subjective to supply and demand. Planning a wedding near Valen-tine’s or Mother’s Day will increase your flower costs by as much as 50%.

DO visit your professional retail florist even when planning DIY floral. Let them know your concerns with a budget. A professional florist can show you all the tricks of the trade to help you achieve your budget requirements. DO be sure to have adequate refrigeration for your finished product!DON’T purchase your flowers from anyone other than a reputable professional florist. Discounters are only concerned with volume, not quality. Remember: your flowers will be picked up in advance and need to continue to look good right through your event!

DO let your florist know if you are marrying anywhere that requires a boat ride or long distance drive! This will allow your florist to help you choose floral which will withstand the journey. Or, your florist may suggest holders that have a water hydra-tion wick system once the handle of the bouquet is in a vase of water. DON’T insist on your choices in the face of advice from your florist. Your florist has experience and only has your best interests at heart. Many types of floral are heat and water sensitive and some arrangements do not travel well.

VinTage Trend An expert tip by Tina Barabonoff of Platinum Floral Designs (www.platinumfloraldesigns.com)

Heading into the 2012 season, influences from two eras are blissfully re-surfacing. The 1960’s is very inviting of DIY projects, re-using and eco-concious, with empire waist and tea length gowns, and bold red lips. Tightly fitted, smaller scaled cascading bouquets are competing for the spotlight against the 1800’s Victorian/Baroque era with lavish lace, ruffled ball gowns, gold accents and lush floral design.

Back into vogue is the idea of changing gowns between ceremony and reception as well as couture up-do’s with exquisite vintage hats and accessories. Muted palettes are continuing their comeback in bridal bouquets, however, shots of colour will surface to include lavenders, blues, yellows and charcoal. Bridal bouquets are be-ing scaled down in size, more of a posy style, following in the steps of Catherine Middleton’s bouquet. Lace, broaches, pearls and personalized items continue to be entwined into floral design. Rustic themed cakes, especially on the West Coast, will make their mark, while gold, lush and very detailed artistry will also unveil itself.

FlOral dOs and dOn’Tsideas &

trends

TrendsExpert tips by Colleen O’Farrell of Foxgloves Flowers (www.foxglovesflowers.com) CHOOSING LOCAL & EARTH FRIENDLY BLOOMS There are so many fabulous local choices here in British Columbia. Why not put an emphasis on being earth friendly? Choosing local product reduces the carbon footprint required to move those flowers to their final destination- your wedding! Keep in mind that if you are choosing a “green” wedding you may be somewhat limited by seasonal availability!

A VINTAGE SHABBY CHIC THEMEThis romantic and elegant look combines full and overblown blooms such as roses and peonies with vintage pots and containers for a classic and timeless feel. Colour palettes tend towards the soft and romantic with shades of blush, cham-pagne, peaches, creams, whites and soft pale celery greens.

GLAMOUR & GLITzThis theme is achieved with extravagant and over the top floral arrangements that incorporate gems and crystals with gold and silver accents in large abundance. Sensual colour palattes such as rich reds and burgundies set the tone for drama.

CASUAL ELEGANCEThis modern take on the backyard simplicity of a garden party has been a hot trend this season. Let your venue set the tone for your florals. Choosing blooms such as lisianthus, garden roses and ladies mantle are an absolute perfect match for an outdoor casual gathering by the lake. What could be better?!

“Vintage is timeless- it’s measured by the depth of your imagination.” – Linda Payne, Designer Weddings and Special Occasion Rentals.


photo: www.nicholetaylorphotography.com

So how can The Vancouver Island Wedding Ring help you – the bride? We hope that you view The Ring as an interactive experience. Since we are new to Vancouver Island, we want to hear from you! Let us know about great wedding experts that we should visit, send us your engagement story and don’t forget about entering the $1000 dollar shopping spree contest online!

Feel free to visit the chatrooms and share your experiences or ask other brides your ques-tions. Check out the latest sales, take a poll and check out the Bridal Show Calendar. You can read the green version of our magazine online or send the link to friends. Our Face-book and Twitter will keep you up with trends as well as offers from our Vancouver Island Experts. Create your own profile, link to friends, post your own Review on an Expert, and sell your stuff on the buy/sell board.

In short, The Wedding Ring, is all about you. So Get Local and Plan Fabulous! To get in touch, email us at [email protected]

THe wedding ring Has arriVed!

Boudoir Photography is one of the exciting new trends in professional photog-raphy. It is truly a one-of-a-kind gift for your groom! After all, just before your wedding you have primped, prepped and dieted, right? So it’s the perfect time to take posing to the next level.

Boudoir photography may not be what you think it is. Most times, it’s actually PG13 type photos. Sexy, but always in good taste. That can include implied nude shots (shots of the back or lying on your stomach) or classic pin-up style. It often takes place in the photo studio or another location you both agree on. Your bou-doir photographer will have lots of good ideas for you and will be sure to help you look spectacular. Many offer a favourite hair stylist and make-up artist to help you look and feel incredible. But cosmetics aside, the real key is feeling ex-tremely comfortable with your photographer! Because if you don’t, it will show.

Find out ahead of time what to expect. Many photographers will encourage you to open a bottle of bubbly to help you relax! You’ll bring lingerie you love, jewel-lery, shoes and, above all, that engagement ring!

Your session will likely last about two hours, allowing for hair and make-up. And since most of us aren’t used to having our photos taken in the buff or with very little on, it will take a little time to get comfortable! Be prepared to spend several hundred dollars on a great boudoir photographer, because if you’re going to get your sexy on, you’re going to want it to pay off in both the experience and the resulting images.

Many boudoir photographers offer the option of presenting your risqué photos in a mini-album, all ready to be that gift your groom will not soon forget! ■

BOudOir PHOTOgraPHy

TheWedding Ring.ca [noun]definition: 1. web ring/community, informal gathering of brides and service providers 2. collection of local wedding resources, supplies, and discussions 3. news source for local wedding events and trends see also: a bride’s new best friend

Margaret (Margie) Wiens hopped in the elevator of her building, excited to get to the “Clue Party” and show off her Miss Scarlet costume. She was quite proud of her outfit, even though it was more risqué than she would normally wear (in order to achieve Miss S’s sexy look). Yet the satisfaction she was feeling quickly dwindled as Donald Grubb stepped into the elevator. She had chatted with Donald a few times in the past (because they both lived on the ninth floor) but had never exchanged names. Needless to say, standing there with her extraordinary costume, Margie was mortified. Donald found the whole situation quite funny. After a moment, Margie found herself laughing alongside Don, and ultimately exhanging names and phone numbers with him. That was the spring of 2008 and the pair have been together ever since.

About a year and a half later, Margie and Don decided to have their own private celebra-tion for the holidays. In anticipation for December 19th, Don secretly purchased an en-gagement ring ahead of time. However, Donald couldn’t wait. After picking up the ring on the sixteenth, their holiday date felt like an eternity away. So at the end of the day, the two were cuddled up on the couch together, and Donald knew it was time. He turned to Margaret and insisted that she have her Christmas present now. Margie started to insist they wait until Sunday, but Donald ignored her protests and got up to retrieve her gift. Margaret had no idea what he was planning and was confused when he told her “it was something that she needed now.” Margie jokes that because Don had just finished mercilessly teasing her about one thing or another and she hadn’t exactly been thinking about romance at the moment. So when Don presented her with the ring and asked her to marry him, she was surprised, to say the least. Once the shock had subsided, she immediately said “Yes!”

Margie and Don didn’t have any preconceived ideas or visions for their wedding. They were certain they wanted to be married by clergy and the rest could be determined along the way.

Having a summer wedding was also an easy decision as it was a time when most of their friends and family would be able to join them. They chose to have their wedding in Victoria because they wanted to show off their city to friends and family.

“We looked at many places... but, as soon as we toured The Fairmont Empress Hotel (www.fairmont.com/empress) we knew that it had to be there. It’s central location meant that our guests would not be cabbing it to the wedding (which was the deciding factor against other locations) or staying in the boonies.” This was particularly important in order to make sure their 113 guests - many of which who were coming from out of town - would be able to enjoy the day with them.

Margie and Don add, “Nothing says ‘Victoria BC’ like the Empress does... We immedi-ately fell in love with the Old Victoria feel and its elegance.”

The bride and groom planned to host their ceremony and reception in one location, so when they booked the Crystal Ballroom for the reception, staff at the Empress treated them to the Rose Garden for the ceremony, the Palm Court for cocktails, and the library for the wedding party to prepare and relax.

Because of the gorgeous setting, there was no need for extensive decorating. The florist, Jane’s Florist (www.flowersvictoria.com), designed around the existing de-cor, highlighting the natural elegance of the rooms and Rose Garden with arrange-ments. Additional décor came in the form of chair coverings and a few creative touches with linens here and there. Margie admits there wasn’t really a color or theme although the maid of honour did wear a bright blue dress, so they gave the florist a swatch of the dress fabric and they were able to coordinate the color theme of the flowers with the dress.

With beautiful architecture and grounds, there were more than a few photo opps. Their photographer, Greg Howard Photography worked along with the wedding party to capture some incredible posed and candid photos. “We chose Greg Howard Photogra-phy because they were recommended by a friend, and because of the exceptional work we viewed on their website. We loved working with Greg and Vanessa. It was really fun getting our engagement and wedding photos taken.”

Photography by Greg Howard Photography (www.greghoward.ca)Story by TheWeddingRing.ca

a lOVe sTOryaT THe emPress

augusT 14TH, 2010 aT THe FairmOnT emPress HOTel, VicTOria Bc (www.FairmOnT.cOm/emPress)


reality wedding stories

Margie and Don say their favourite part of the photography package they ordered was the wedding album they created with Greg and Vanessa. “They included some personal touches, which far exceeded our expectations.” It was important to both Margie and Don that their wedding be simple and reflect a sense of family.

The officiant, Reverend Dr. Irene Gifford-Cole was the aunt of the bride. Margie is Mennonite and Don is Catholic, so being married by Margaret’s mother’s sister, an Anglican priest, was a great way to connect both sides of the family. The wedding party also consisted entirely of family with the bride’s sister as Maid of honour, the groom’s brother as the Best Man and the bride’s goddaughter as the Flower Girl.

Don’s mother, Helen Grubb, made fruit cake which was wrapped up in a pretty vintage style doily with a note and presented as wedding favours to each guest.

When August 14th 2010 day arrived, the humidex was off the charts with the temperature hovering at a sweltering 30 degrees Celcius. To add a twist to the timeline, Margaret’s veil was actually stolen on the eve of the wedding. They didn’t notice it’s absence until the morning of the wedding. Don’s brother, with the help of staff at the Empress, called local wedding shops in search of a replacement veil. He was able to get into a bridal store before it was scheduled to open, promptly requesting the clerk to “give me the best veil you’ve got!.” Margie ended up loving the replacement even more than her original.

They were married at 2:30pm amidst greenery, flowers, and their friends and family. Margie said she felt like a princess. As she walked throughout the Empress grounds, tourists would stop and ask to have a picture taken with the lovely bride. Also, unbeknownst to the happy couple and many of the invited guests, the pathway behind the Rose Garden was lined with tourists, taking photos and video of the ceremony. These impromptu guests even cheered as they walked down the aisle after being pronounced man and wife. Margie and Don say they felt like celebrities and laughed about it throughout the reception.

Trudy the DJ from Alexander’s Music Service, provided the music for the entire night. Margie says “Trudy was “great at reading the group and playing the right music.”

Margie and Don admit that their wedding was every-thing they wanted it to be. “We were very well planned for the big day. Everything just came together and we were both really relaxed for the day. We didn’t sweat the unanticipated events that came our way - the unprec-edented 30+ degree day, a stolen veil the morning of the wedding, a meticulously put-together slide show with technology that fell apart at the last minute...” Margie and Don are a testiment to the fact that no matter how much you plan, there are just some issues that can’t be foreseen, much less prevented. “You just need to go with it and have a great day, without losing sight of the big picture.”

In retrospect, the newlyweds admit, “Our wedding was the most amazing experience in the world. We were surrounded by all the people we love and they were gathered there just for us.” ■

•Find some great people to work with and trust them. The last thing that you want is to be concerned with any details on your big day...leave it to the professionals, who know what they are doing.

•There are always lots of things that don’t go according to plan, this is par for the course. This is your day...just have a mindset to relax and have fun no matter what.

- Margie & Don

After our first solo date I thought - I think that I can spend the rest of my life with this man.

22 • The Wedding Ring Magazine VANCOUVER ISLAND

welcOme wagOn Bridal sHOwcaseJanuary 15, 2012 Beban Park Social Centre, Nanaimowww.welcomewagon.ca

Bridal eXHiBiTiOnJanuary 15, 2012Pearkes Recreation Centre, Victoriawww.bridal.ieginc.ca

VicTOria Bridal FairJanuary 22, 2012Crystal Garden, Victoriawww.bridalevents.ca

Bridal eXHiBiTiOn January 22, 2012Florence Filberg Centre, Courtenaywww.bridal.ieginc.ca

welcOme wagOn Bridal sHOwcaseFebruary 5, 2012 Florence Filberg Centre, Courtenaywww.welcomewagon.ca

Bridal eXHiBiTiOnFebruary 19, 2012Beban Park Auditoruim, Nanaimowww.bridal.ieginc.ca

THe cOmOX Valley lOVe aFFairMarch 3, 2012Kingfisher Resort and Spa, Courtenaywww.cvloveaffair.com

VicTOria Bridal eXPOSeptember 9, 2012 Crystal Garden, VictoriaShow Hotline 1-800-670-8833www.bridalevents.ca

Bridal eXHiBiTiOnSeptember 16, 2012Pearkes Reacreation Centre, Victoriawww.bridal.ieginc.ca

Bridal eXHiBiTiOn September 23, 2012Vancouver Island Conference Centre, Nanaimowww.bridal.ieginc.ca

Bridal eXHiBiTiOnSeptember 30, 2012Florence Filberg Centre, Courtenaywww.bridal.ieginc.ca

MORE EVENT INFO ONLINE @ THEWEDDINGRING.CA { click on Vancouver Island }

Bridal sHOw

• Are award winners • Have multiple degrees & ac-creditations • Are members of selective organizations • Do regular charity work • Are teachers & mentors in their craft • Have appeared in television news & wedding segments

• Each review in The Ring is based on industry knowledge, thorough re-search, interviews with the vendors, interviews with their past brides, personal viewing of work, feedback from wedding industry peers, and so much more!

• Reviews are on experts who are local, well-loved, and dedicated to making your wedding fabulous.

• The Ring is doing the research so that you don’t have to - one wed-ding community at a time!

gOOd TO KnOw

Late

st News & Show Dates • Theweddingring.ca

•

It was only natural for Kristjana Chess and David Bachynski to be married at Tigh-Na-Mara, with its coastal views and intimate, secluded ambiance. After all, their courtship and engagement were made up of moments that could be characterized as simple, moving signs of love that often occurred amongst the natural beauty that the east coast of British Columbia has come to be known for.

Take their engagement: After a romantic dinner together on May 13th, 2011, Kris and David decided to take a late-night stroll on the breakwater at Ogden Point in Victoria. Surrounded by stirring waters and a skyline sprawling with mountains, it is a place that showcases the beauty of the natural world, and is one of both awe, but also of danger.

As Kris explains, “When we were there, David said to me, ‘Do you still want to get married?’ It was only a few steps to the edge

of the breakwater and a long drop, but luckily, I kept this in mind at the time.” Still, Kris knew she was safe with David. “He told me to close my eyes and hold out my hand. I was just so excited because I knew then what he was about to do.”

After being introduced by a mutual friend, followed by ten blissful years together, Kris and David decided that it was time to make their commitment a little more permanent.

“Kris gives meaning to my life and is a remarkable human being in all aspects,” says David and clearly, Kris thinks just as highly of her man. “David makes me laugh and he is a very caring and giving person.”

They’ve been through good times, but also through more chal-lenging ones, including Kris’ diagnosis with breast cancer. As Kris says, it was this event in her life that lead to their choosing Tigh-Na-Mara as their wedding day site and also made her even more certain that David was the one for her.

“The previous summer I was in the process of having radiation for breast cancer, so David would drive me to the clinic on Fridays, and then after treatment, he would take me to Tigh-Na-Mara for the weekend. It is such a place of meaning for us, in addition to its beauty,” so they knew that it would be perfect for their small, personal affair.

Tigh-Na-Mara, which is actually Gaelic for “House by the Sea,” is a secluded collection of log cabins, in addition to being a re-nowned resort and spa that is nestled amongst Douglas firs and

a Place OF BeauTy and meaningsePTemBer 19TH, 2011:: TigH-na-mara seaside sPa resOrT & cOnFerence cenTre, ParKsVille

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Photography by Vivid Photography (www.vividphotography.ca)Story by TheWeddingRing.ca


sits atop a sandy beach. And though it features facilities that can host much larger events, the

couple picked the cozy dining room for their guest list of fourteen.

“We both have been married before, so we just wanted a small family gathering,” they explain.

With the aid of the “experts” at Tigh-Na-Mara, Kris and David enjoyed their intimate Septem-ber 19th, 2011 wedding, which turned out to be “beautiful and all they could have wanted.”

They began by picking a simple theme of black and dark ivory. The latter colour choice was inspired by Kris’ gown, which, as she explains, was actually quite difficult to find. “After looking around and searching, I was going to give up when Luz at Luz Bridal Boutique, who clearly had been listening closely to what I was saying I wanted, handed me a royal blue gown with a little jacket. I loved it instantly and had it ordered in dark ivory.”

Then, taking the advice of their wedding planner at the seaside getaway location, they selected Petal & Kettle as their florist. “They created the most beautiful bouquets and boutonnières, all just from asking what we were looking for and what flowers we liked,” says the couple.

And for the cake, they went with a bakery in Victoria that they knew would meet their expecta-tions. As they explain, the Lighthouse Cake Company “is known for its cakes and—let me tell you—they were wonderful, and the cake was simply beautiful and so delicious!”

Spurning tradition and the big banquet-style that often characterizes wedding receptions, Kris and David instead opted to let guests make some wedding day decisions usually left up to the bride and groom. “Each guest chose their own meal off of the menu.” They couldn’t have been any happier with the result, adding, “From the food to the wine to the service, the staff couldn’t have been more wonderful or accommodating.”

Keeping with their theme of a small celebration with close friends and family, it’s no surprise that even their wedding party was made up of those closest to them. The couple’s daughters served as Kris’ bridesmaids and their son was the best man.

Even their photographers, Vivid Photography (www.vividphotography.ca), maintained the intimate style of their wedding. “They are so relaxed and their sense of humour matches ours, so the pictures reflect just what we wanted.” That includes photos of the couple with a Harley (Kris loves them) and some shots of Kris and David in the sand on the beach.

But above all, what was most meaningful to them was being able to celebrate with those closest to them. “We wouldn’t do a single thing differently. We appreciate the efforts that our friends made to get there. One couple got up early and drove all the way from Kimberley, BC. They truly don’t know how much that effort meant to us.” ■


Kris gives meaning to my life... A remarkable human being in all aspects -

kindness, determination and caring.

The newly opened Best Western Premier Prestige Oceanfront Resort evokes a feeling of the Old South, with its sweeping entrance of grand columns and impressive courtyards, all looking onto ocean views.

The vistas inspired Tina and Linda to a palette of relaxed elegance in an impressive mix of old and new.

Linda Payne, of Designer Weddings and Special Oc-

casion Rentals, started by draping the sweetheart table with green organza overlay swept up with a faux crys-tal piece. For extra flair, chair covers were ribboned in gold and green.

Candalabras and goblets readied the table for roman-tic florals along with silver vintage pieces.

Tina, of Platinum Floral Designs, created a tablescape

using orchids, calla lilies, hanging aramanthus and colorful berries.

We love the classic feel with a contemporary twist and the overall cascading look. Crystals were added to give sparkle!

Nichole, of Nichole Taylor Photography, captures this tablescape with exquisite detail. ■

PHOTOGRAPHY: Nichole Taylor Photograhy (www.nicholetaylorphotography.com) FLOWERS: Platinum Floral Designs (www.platinumfloraldesigns.com)

LINENS & COVERS: Designer Weddings and Special Occasion Rentals (www.designerweddingsvictoria.com) LOCATION: Best Western Premier Prestige Oceanfront Resort (www.prestigehotelsandresorts.com)

SAVE ME!To keep the fires of creativity burning, cut out this page & save it in your ideas binder.

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GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! •27

CAkES & CuPCAkES: Ooh La La Cupcakes (www.oohlalacupcakes.ca)PHOTOGRAPHY: Deanna McCollum Photography (www.deannamccollumphotography.com)

We love the cake and candy tables that are so trendyright now, so Sherryl, of Ooh La La Cupcakes, and Deanna, of Deanna McCollum Photography, designed and photographed this table with a twist.

Instead of just one wedding cake, why not a table of cakes and cupcakes? Getting creative by mixing colours, sizes and shapes, you’ll please the palate of every one of your guests - and your display will look fabulous! Combine colors and flavours at whim, mak-

ing sure that your cake table tastes as sweet as it looks.

Here, the traditional wedding cake has whimsicalmonarch butterflies sitting on branches and scrump-tious cupcakes tempt guests in every flavour with cream cheese icing.

The Tiffany blue cake has jewel-like gold brocade pip-ing with brown ribbons, lending a feeling of ethereal elegance. The miniature cakes and touch of bling

complete the inviting look.

A sophisticated colour palette of brown, Tiffany blue and gold color scheme is spiced up with a vibrant dash of orange.

Try varying heights of cake stands and petit fourholders in a mix of glass, sterling silver and porcelain tocreate drama on your own cake table! ■


design palettes

Vintage DIY can’t be done much better than in this real local wedding! As co-owner of The Green Room (www.greenroominteriors.com), Cortney was attentive to creating an eco-friendly wedding day. Her wedding decor was filled with reusable and the reused!

Original and distinctive design ideas are what make a DIY wedding special! So we loved all the detailed effort that obviously went into this stylish wedding day. The lovely, soft grey gown with lace sleeves, set the tone for this extraordinary occasion. Cortney completed the

ensemble with a charming fascinator she discovered on Etsy (www.etsy.com). A vintage suitcase was bought second hand and her scrapbooking skills came in handy for the letters. A photobooth backdrop was made using three vintage doors and old sheet music was transformed into garlands. Glass medicine jars from vintage shops were used for the florals which sat atop wood slice centerpieces. Personalized vases marked table numbers (also an Etsy find). Hand-sewn napkins lay beneath wedding favours - loose tea in tins that were beribboned in satin. Mismatched chairs and

milk bottles added to look. The old fashioned bike was a gift from the bride to the groom earlier in their relationship and added to the theme perfectly.

But most importantly – lets talk about the Smore Pops! Marshmallows were skewered, rolled in melted chocolate and then sprinkled in graham crackers. Love this idea!

This work of art was captured in equisite detail by Crystal of Crystal Clear Photography. ■

PHOTOGRAPHY: Crystal Clear Photography (www.crystalclearphotography.ca)


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GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! •29

PHOTOGRAPHY: Nichole Taylor Photograhy (www.nicholetaylorphotography.com) DECOR: Designer Weddings and Special Occasion Rentals (www.designerweddingsvictoria.com)

FLOWERS: Platinum Floral Designs (www.platinumfloraldesigns.com)


design palettes

Linda Payne, of Designer Weddings and Special Oc-casion Rentals, and Tina, of Platinum Floral Designs, created this stunning display filled with Victorian elements for a bold palette.

The purple and red colours are reminiscent of the Baroque era, emphasizing a grand opera style of opulence.

It’s really all in the details for this look - lots of lush color and layered floral fill the table and the purple lace, held in place with a jewelled clasp - all providing the perfect theatrical backdrop.

Cupcakes, iced in shades of purple, are piled high and sprinkled with rose petals. The intuition roses, with the natural feather look on the petals, inspired Tina to bring on the drama.

Crystals spread amongst the look add more glamour.

The unique oak branch, which has been sprayed gold, adds the final touch with small purple blooms and ostrich feathers hanging over the tableau.

Nichole, of Nichole Taylor Photography, covered all the angles on this work of art! ■

Kimberly Swiss and Lee Grannon were married at the incredible Black Rock Oceanfront Resort (www.blackrockresort.com) in Ucluelet , BC. There were gorgeous flowers, a scrumptious wedding cake and a dinner of filet mignon and scallops. The bridal party had their hair and makeup done by Tanya and Lauren at Studio One (www.studioonetofino.ca) in Tofino, BC and enjoyed posing for photographer Szymon Szymczakowski. Or rather, they would have enjoyed it, if there had been a bridal party. You see, Kimberly and Lee eloped.

Kim and Lee met in 2009 at a conference in Phoenix, Arizona. They connected at the conference and kept in touch but living so far away from each other made things difficult. Kim is from Chi-cago and Lee is from Nanaimo. Yet five months from that first meeting on a shared walk around the seawall at Stanley Park they knew they “were both smitten.” Although they lived thousands of miles apart being there together, talking and laughing, the distance seemed to disappear. Lee told The Ring, “Kim is the most caring and genuine person that I have ever known. From the first moments that I spoke with Kim, I was smitten by her beauty and thoughtfulness. Her first thought and concern is always for the comfort and happiness of all those around her. It is impossible not to love someone that brings a smile to the face of everyone she meets. She is always able to make me laugh and smile no matter how stressful life may be at times....she is my soul mate.”

Kim says “Lee has the most amazing ability to somehow be so many things to so many people, a loving and loyal father, brother and son, a caring and devoted friend, a thoughtful boss all while remaining incredibly humble and modest. He has the biggest smile and even bigger laugh, and endless love to give. Everyone loves Lee, it is impossible not to.”

A year later, Lee proposed to Kim on that very same beach. As Lee began his proposal, a tear rolled down Kim’s cheek and on that windy and cold day in December, Kimberly and Lee got engaged.

As the two set out to plan their big day they were immediately faced with obstacles. They knew they wanted to have their ceremony in the fall, the foliage providing a great background for their

Photography by Szymon Szymczakowski Photography (www.szymonphotography.com)Story by TheWeddingRing.ca

a BlacK rOcK OceanFrOnT elOPemenT

OcTOBer 1sT, 2011 :: BlacK rOcK OceanFrOnT resOrT in uclueleT, Bc

She is always able to make me laugh and smile no matter how stressful life may be... She is my soul mate.

30• The Wedding Ring Magazine VANCOUVER ISLAND | www.vancouverisland.theweddingring.ca

wedding photos. But neither of them really had a clear idea of the kind of wedding they wanted and of course there was the issue of geography. With both of their families being so spread out all over the continent, it seemed impossible that they would be able to bring them all together on an appointed date. In short, something had to give. So, it was settled, they were going to elope.

Kimberly and Lee rang in 2010 at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort and were very taken with its accommodations as well as the scenic West Coast of Vancouver Island. “The Black Rock provides the perfect juxtaposition of urban and nature that captured our personalities well.” They also provided a terrific elopement package that really fit their decision to have a private wedding. “Katherine Mijinke and Natalie Syssoloff in the events department made sure we had eveything we needed for our elopement.”

The resort sent Kimberly and Lee options for the cake, flowers, wedding commissioner and photographer as well as recommending places for Kimberly to get her hair and makeup done. (Kimberly loved Studio One and thought it had a “fantastic energy and nurturing staff.”)

The event staff also provided them with a list of about ten photographers from which to choose. After researching them all, they decided on Szymon Szymczakowski Photog-raphy. Looking through his photos online, they “felt tangible and the beauty of their environment was perfectly displayed.” Kimberly remembers, “There was something about Syzmon’s photos that really resonated with me. He seemed to be able to capture all the small details that make the experience of a wedding so meaningful but also express the bigger picture.” Szymon also took the time to get to know Kimberly and Lee the day before the ceremony so to better capture images that conveyed who they are individually and as a couple. “Our photo shoot was the highlight of the day.... The resort and the land-scape provided so many options, we loved experimenting with it all and having someone so willing to spend the time to capture it so well.”

Kim was focused on making everything simple and elegant. The décor was white except for a few purple flowers in her bouquet and one in her hair. After the ceremony, they enjoyed a wedding dinner organized by the staff, in the resort restaurant. Champagne was brought in with their cake and they toasted to the day’s festivities.

The sweet, romantic idea of the elopement was just how they imagined. Kim said, “I loved the certain level of closeness achieved when you do something so paramount and it’s just the two of you there.” Kim and Lee’s wedding day was private, filled with intimate moments they shared with each other. But they do admit the day felt surreal without their closest family and friends alongside them.

“You think about how you should be drinking mimosas with your mom and sister and best friend....” Kim missed that her father didn’t walk her down the aisle and that Lee’s kids, Kelly and Justin, didn’t get to take part in the special day.

So to celebrate their romantic Black Rock elopement, their new marriage, and the fam-ily and friends that they love, Kim and Lee are busy planning a second party for next summer - this one, with a much bigger guest list. Kim will sip Mimosas with her sister...

Lee will share the celebration with his kids, Kelly and Justin... Kim and Lee are looking forward to their summer fete and sharing more moments with the people who love and support them. ■

“Plan a wedding that really is about you two, who you are, and how you fit. It will all flow naturally from there.”- Kim & Lee


OcTOBer 1sT, 2011 :: BlacK rOcK OceanFrOnT resOrT in uclueleT, Bc

KINGFISHER OCEANFRONT RESORT AND SPA

in cOurTenaywww.kingfisherspa.com

A relaxing, stimulating, and creative atmosphere for celebrating and connecting. With its awe-inspiring setting, oceanfront spaces, innovative catering and high-tech services, it’s a spectacular destination for brainstorming or celebrating life’s essential moments.1-877-762-5011 | 4,200 SQUARE FEET | UP TO 140 GUESTS

The perfect place to have your ceremony, reception,

elopement or special event. Whether you want a large gala affair in the Seaglass

Ballroom, or a small intimate ceremony on the

beach or in a cottage. 1-888-512-POET (7638) |

250-629-2100 | UP TO 100 GUESTS

POETS COVE RESORT & SPAin Bedwell HarBOur On Pender islandwww.poetscove.com [email protected]

A romantic backdrop for a wedding proposal, an elegant setting for Victoria weddings, the perfect place to renew your vows, the ideal surroundings for rediscovering the magic that brought you together.250-370-1524 | ELEGANT COCKTAIL RECEPTIONS | CASUAL OR ELABORATE BUFFETS | FORMAL SIT-DOWN DINNERS | INTIMATE ELOPEMENTS

VILLA MARCO POLO INNin [email protected]

The Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa’s vow to you: incredible scenery,

exquisite catering, attentive service and gorgeous beachfront accom-

modations. Memories, experiences and photos you will always treasure.

1-800-663-7929 | UP TO 110 GUESTS |

BEACHFRONT WEDDINGS

LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION Where you host your wedding day - whether it be in a heritage mansion, a crystal ballroom, or a tent beneath the stars - is a decision guaranteed to play an integral role in the overall style and atmosphere of your fairytale day. Choose the venue that’s truly perfect for you.

adVerTising FeaTure

Wedding Worthy Venues is a feature of The Wedding Ring Magazine that’s designed to give you an at-a-glance look at some of the amazing wedding locations found in Vancouver Island. Browse the profiles for the basics such as capacity and bar options. Want more? Find everything from colour schemes, wedding menus, and pack-age pricing, check out reception halls reviews at TheWeddingRing.ca (click on Vancouver Island).

Venues

32• The Wedding Ring Magazine VANCOUVER ISLAND | www.vancouverisland.theweddingring.ca

BLACK ROCK RESORTin [email protected]

ST. ANN’S ACADEMYin VicTOriawww.stannsacademy.com [email protected]

St. Ann’s Academy is the perfect historical setting for your wedding day. Exchange your vows in an interfaith 1858 Chapel, the lovely Novitiate Garden, or the rustic Orchard. 250-953-8829 | UP TO 150 GUESTS | TWO INDOOR & THREE OUTDOOR VENUES AVAILABLE

PHOTO: nicHOle TaylOr

SHELTER POINT DISTILLERY in camPBell riVerwww.shelterpointdistillery.cominfo@shelterpointdistillery.com

With gracious service and on-site wedding planners, The Fairmont Empress offers the ideal wedding

location. Backed by over a century of expertise, they work tirelessly to

design the wedding of your dreams.250- 384-8111 | 1-866- 540-4429

The Fairmont Empressin VicTOria

www.fairmont.com [email protected]

BEST WESTERN PREMIER PRESTIGE OCEANFRONT RESORT in [email protected]

This world-class resort offers ceremony and reception options that include the Grand Ballroom, three salons, waterfront pavilion and outdoor courtyard terraces. Expert event planners provide personalized arrangements. The catering depart-ment can customize a unique menu. 250-642-0805 | INDOOR & OUTDOOR VENUE OPTIONS | UP TO 900 GUESTS | ON-SITE CATERING | ON-SITE SPA | ON-SITE DINING OPTIONS

One of Vancouver Island’s newest wedding venues offers two beauti-ful outdoor ceremony sites and indoor reception, all set amid the unique backdrop of stunning copper pot stills and whisky distilling equipment. 778-420-2200 | OUTDOOR CEREMONY | INDOOR RECEPTION | UP TO 75 FOR SIT DOWN DINNER

When you rent Craigdarroch Castle, you get the whole Castle, surrounded by lavish Victorian era furnishings and exquisite stained glass with room. An ideal location to host an elegant cocktail reception or wedding. 250-592-5323 ext.22 | UP TO 150 GUESTS

CRAIGDARROCH CASTLEin [email protected]

The Spring Prelude indoor garden is a colourful and delightfully scented indoor garden perfect for intimate

wedding ceremonies and a champagne reception. Let the festivities continue with an elegant, charming dinner.

250-652-4422 | 1-866-652-4422 | UP TO 60 GUESTS

BUTCHART GARDENSin VicTOria

www.butchartgardens.com [email protected]


TRAVELODGE DUNCANin duncan

[email protected]

Nestled in the heart of the Cowichan Valley, The Travelo-dge is the perfect blend of contemporary style and com-

fort. Offering 9000 sq ft. of dedicated wedding facilities for custom tailored events.

250-748-4311 | UP TO 490 GUESTS | 34 GUEST ROOMS & SUITES

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Documents

The Wedding Ring VANCOUVER ISLAND Spring Summer 2012