V-V-V-VERA

This year Vera Wang wow'ed guests in NYC at her runway show previewing her Spring 2013 collection. In past years she has been bold with her color choice of black, nude, and crimson gowns. This year, however, she stuck to the traditional white palette and said she is celebrating the classicism of the wedding gown.  We think she nailed it with this collection and applaud her creativity and elegant designs once again.

See below some stunning gowns highlighted in Vera's upcoming collection:

If only it was socially acceptable to buy wedding dresses for fun :)

We heart Vera Wang.

Until Next Time,

A & S

Meeting Monique

"Life is short. Use the good china." - Monique Lhullier

Last night, I had the great pleasure of attending a wonderful event hosted by the talented Catherine Lash of The Wedding Co.  William Ashley's Bloor street showroom was the venue and it lent itself well to showcase Monique Lhuillier's elegant bone china collection, crystal gift ware, silver flatware and her classic stationary.  The room was filled with brides-to-be and their mothers or maids, exquisite crystal, sparkling ivory gowns and pink champagne.  Jessica Smith from Cake Opera Co.  was in attendance with another masterpiece as the room's centerpiece.  She and her team created a stunning 5-tier white cake inspired by Monique Lhuillier's Sunday Rose gown.  It was magnificent, as usual, and their cupcakes were a big hit amongst the ladies. There were models roaming the room in Monique's 2012 Fall collection, sold at White Toronto, and you could not help but be blown away by their beauty.

Catherine hosted an interview with Monique Lhuillier which gave guests advice and tips about how to register and some suggestions from her experience.  Monique was friendly, bubbly and eager to wow the crowd with her pale pink accented china, her rose encrusted crystal bowls and, of course, her gowns.  She talked of her inspirations and the recent popularity of coloured gowns in the industry.  She alluded to using more colours in her next collection but said we would have to wait for it to be released.  Monique also advised young women not to be scared of their china, a lesson my consultant at Ashley's had mentioned when registering.  She said to enjoy serving your food on beautiful pieces and not to lock them away in a hutch.  The highlight was when Jackie, of William Ashleys, took a pen and hit a plate from her collection as hard as she possibly could.  She explained that bone china is extremely durable and chip resistant.  To drive the point home further, Monique invited her husband up (I loved that he was there) and asked him to stand on one of her tea cups! It was quite amazing and a great lesson to everyone not to be scared of your 'fancy' dishes.  They are to be used and enjoyed and life is too short, as Monique said, to have beautiful pieces hidden.  I know I was inspired and can't wait to host my first meal with our wedding china!  It was great to hear Monique discuss fabrics and patterns and the designing process and she graciously helped brides with decisions about jewellery and veils for certain gowns they had purchased.  She was a joy to talk to and was friendly and complimentary of our city.

Below are some photos from last night (they were taken on my blackberry, I need an iPhone!):

The Sunday Rose inspired cake by Cake Opera Co. - you can find the cake topper on Amazon

Stunning tablescape from ML's tabletop collection and flowers from Lilium

Catherine Lash (right) interviewing Monique Lhuillier

Monique's husband on the tea cup!

Me and Monique :)

I am so inspired and honoured that I was apart of such a fantastic event.

Yours truly,

A

Hayley Paige...I Love That Name

"I like being a woman, even in a man's world.  After all, men can't wear dresses, and we can wear the pants." - Whitney Houston

Hayley Paige, a former designer for Melissa Sweet and Blush, launched her namesake line under JLM  Couture.  Her new line was first showcased at NYC’s Market with her Spring 2012 collection and it has been getting a lot of young girls’ attention.  Hayley Paige has just released her Fall 2012 designs and the romantic and charming dresses are stunning and flawless, not to mention their price point is very reasonable.  

Here are some of my favourites from her Spring and Fall 2012 collections:

This ombre petal skirt with chapel train is beyond words! - Babs

The perfect reception dress with the ombre pleated peplum -  Kiki

the Hattie - a romantic gown with beautiful crystal detail on the bodice and straps

Tuula - for the boho chic bride with the crystal embellished dropped-waist skirt 

A dreamy Grecian style gown with crisscross tulle detailing on the back -  Nina

To view the entire collection click here.

Yours truly,

A

Out With the Old, In With the Nearly New

A true taste for couture is not always accompanied by a budget to match. Thankfully, Nearly Newlywed has created a high fashion community for brides vying for designer duds to adorn on their big day.

Cultivated by Jacqueline Courtney, a former NYC fashion-publicist, Nearly Newlywed features the finest frocks from the likes of Marchesa, Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier, Elie Saab, Temperley, and Reem Acra, to name a few. Unique celeb-inspired services are offered, such as the ‘Buy It, Wear It, Send It Back’ option and ‘Personal Shopping via Pinterest’, all while showcasing the best of the best at a fraction of the regular retail price.

A glimpse into the glam;

Vera Wang 'Eliza' Lace & Tulle Princess Gown

Elie Saab Crystal & Silk Chiffon Gown

Marchesa Tulle Rosette Princess Gown

Monique Lhuillier 'Lumiere' Lace & Crystal Mermaid Gown

Reem Acra Grecian Strapless Gown

If you’re on the hunt for your perfect dress, or want to make another bride’s dreams come true by consigning your former wedding attire, you’re nearly there.

Sincerely,

S

Tic Toc, Tic Toc

"I must govern the clock, not be governed by it." - Golda Meir

As I write this post, I am in awe that my wedding is less than 2 weeks away. These past 7 months have flown by so quickly but I can honestly say it has been the happiest time of my life. So many people focus on the stressful parts of planning a wedding (and I get why), however, I can’t help but be blown away by how much I love this process. It helps that I have a passion for party planning and have been blessed with two sets of parents that want the absolute best for Mr. X and I. I think the most important thing to remember throughout the planning process is that this is an exciting time. The bottom line is you get to marry the man of your dreams and be surrounded by your friends and family. What could be better than that!?

In the last few weeks we have nailed every detail down to the ground and it is definitely starting to feel real.  We have done our food tasting and we couldn’t have been happier. The Chef form our venue came out in between each course and explained in detail each dish. He also made us sample hors d’oeuvres and desserts and by the end we were almost rolling ourselves out the door. It was such a nice thing for us to with our parents and it only got everyone more excited for the big day. Our planner also joined us that day and I would recommend this to anyone. She sat with us during each course to discuss timing and logistics of the cocktails, meals, desserts, and floor plan. It was helpful to have her there to jot down all of our comments and notes and walk through the venue with her.

My mom and I also attended our make-up and hair trials together and we were both very happy. Trials are very important to work out any kinks before the big day. It also gives your experts a chance to get to know you and discuss the scheduling for the day.

Next up was my final fitting. I was very happy with the work that the seamstress did but I have learned a very important lesson; do not start a new diet after you do your initial fitting. Based on travel time and convenience I had my first fitting just over a month ago and when I arrived this week for the final fitting, it didn’t fit. The seamstress dealt with it professionally and guaranteed she would have it ready. I am thankful that it was too big and not too small because it will be easier to fix and that we still have 2 weeks to make the changes needed. My best piece of advice would be to leave your fitting to the last minute; it will save you time and money.

The last detail was the table assignments and I am happy to say that it has been checked off my list as complete. It is not easy to narrow down your guest list into groups but after much rearranging we are finally done.

I had my facial and booked my waxing, mani and pedi. I got my last minute accessories to complete my outfits for the weekend and got every necessary precaution ready in case of inclement weather. I think it’s safe to say our wedding is officially around the corner and I can confidently say that I am ready!!!

12 (Fisher) days and counting!

Yours truly,

A

The Rich and Famous

"As an unmarried woman, I was thought to be a danger." - Grace Kelly

It is no surprise that celebrities are major trendsetters.  Star-gazers follow in awe to see what a celebrity will do next, what they will wear and, of course, who they will marry.  Weddings have become such a craze and it seems Will and Kate’s wedding proved that once again.  For months in advance, people were making bets about which designer would be selected for her gown, what it would look like and who would attend.  Those of us (commoners) at home, followed her every move as she prepared for the big day and we couldn’t help but be amazed by the lavish affair that took place on April 29th.  Unfortunately, it was not just royalty that drew such an audience this year; fans tuned in to ‘admire’ Kim Kardashian’s estimated 20 million dollar nuptials, which didn’t last more than a couple of months.

Whether an A-list celeb or a high-society diva, it seems we can’t get enough of the rich and famous.  We turn to them for dress do’s and don’ts and everyone loves to critique the brides’ choices for hair, flowers, cakes, venue and men.

Below is a selection of stunning and iconic celebrity brides who have given every girl something to dream about (at least with respect to the weddings, not the marriage):



Kate Middleton - wearing Sara Burton of Alexander McQueen

Grace Kelly

Carolyn Bessette - wearing Narcisco Rodriguez

Ivanka Trump - wearing Vera Wang

Gwen Stefani - wearing John Galliano

Ellen Degeneres and Portia de Rossi - both wearing Zac Posen

Chelsea Clinton - wearing Vera Wang

Kate Moss - wearing John Galliano

Nicole Ritchie - wearing Marchesa

Kim Kardashian - wearing Vera Wang (all three gowns)

Who's next - Brangelina?? I hope so! That is sure to be one star-studded affair! And we might see Brit tie the knot yet again this year.  Either way, I'm sure we will continue to be entertained and wowed by celebrity brides alike.

Yours truly,

A

I & A: Incredible and Amazing

Incredible and amazing indeed, but these initials actually stand for Ivy & Aster; a lust-worthy label brought to us by two lovers of fashion, gracing us with a strikingly stunning line of bridal gowns and social dresses. Their whimsical designs radiate with elegant simplicity, while remaining budget friendly with most wedding dress styles falling under the $2400 mark, and beauties for bridesmaids at under $385.

Take a peek at some of these fanciful frocks:

Blossom - $2,310 USD

Duchess - $2,330 USD

Fond Wishes - $1,980 USD

Sweetpea - $2,200 USD

Forget Me Knot - $286 USD

Gemma - $385 USD

Love and Tenderness - $286 USD

May Flowers - $286

Phoenix - $380 USD

Vela - $330 USD

 all photos taken from ivyandaster.com

Another reason to LOVE Ivy & Aster – the brand is offered in 3 bridal boutiques across Canada!

• Frocks (Vancouver and Calgary)
• White (Toronto)
• Novelle Bridal (Edmonton)

Sincerely,

S

Fit To Be Wed

I had my very last fitting for my gown this past Friday, and I am so thrilled with the final product! I have to be honest and say I find the alterations process a little nerve-racking, with all the little changes and adjustments that need to be made, it’s a scary thought that it may not turn out to be what you’ve envisioned.

One piece of advice; trust your seamstress. Not only have they done this many times before, but most dignified bridal salons come equipped with the best of the best when it comes to altering their gowns for their clientele.

I was fortunate enough to have the very talented Thea, of The White Dress Bridal Couture in Ottawa, work her magic for me. From nips and tucks to the tricky job of modifying the neckline, the dress turned out so beautifully and I couldn’t be happier with the end result!

As my mother and I were leaving the store, we were handed a large garment bag containing the gown, the veil, and all other bells and whistles. My mom “cradled” the bag in her arms and then said “I don’t think I was this nervous when I brought you home from the hospital!” We all had a good laugh before gently placing our precious cargo in the back seat of the car.

In exactly two weeks’ time I’ll be all dressed in white and becoming a Mrs.

FINAL COUNTDOWN. Ahh!!!

Sincerely,

S

Astonishing Aussie and Brilliant Brit - Collette Dinnigan & Jenny Packham

These two ladies really know how it’s done. Their unique styles both combine classic grace with glamorous modernity.  Both designers exude femininity in their gowns through the use of shapely silhouettes and dazzling crystal adornments. In addition to bridal, their RTW collections are equally as exquisite. CD’s designs have been spotted on the likes of Taylor Swift and Kate Winslet, while JP has been coveted by celebs like Sandra Bullock, and none other than our favorite Royal, the Duchess herself.  See below for a variety of lust worthy show stoppers. 

Collette Dinnigan

Jenny Packham

Unfortunately, there are very few bridal salons in Otown, MTL or T.O who feature these lovely dames’ dresses in store (CD is nowhere to be found just yet in this great nation of ours), but you can find JP at White in Toronto and Powder in Woodbridge, Ontario.

Until next time,

A & S

All Dressed in White

“A man has his clothes made to fit him; a woman makes herself fit her clothes.” Edgar Watson Howe

It would come as no major shock to anyone who knows me that my wedding gown was purchased long before even choosing a venue.  The process of deciding which dress to say yes to can be a fun filled one, but it can also be lengthy, frustrating, and in all honesty, a little ridiculous.

For instance, and please try not to be offended if this is you, but I cannot understand why a girl would bring an entourage of 8 people to an appointment in a bridal salon. Who wants that many opinions? Not to mention it must drive the bridal consultants completely insane (if you watch Say Yes to the Dress, you get what I mean). If you’re smart, bring your mom (and dad if he’s into that sort of thing), sisters, and MOH – but cap it there.

Luckily for me, the journey of finding the “one” in this case was fairly seamless.

In the end, I visited four bridal stores, three in Ottawa and one in Montreal. Each establishment featured collections from different designers, so while styles did not become repetitive, the act of getting naked in a tiny enclosed space where a total stranger is on the floor, staring straight at your thong while helping you into an often puffy, white monstrosity weighing more than an Olsen twin, can be a little tiresome. But a bride’s gotta do what a bride’s gotta do.

I ended up falling in love with a gorgeous Vera Wang number back in November, merely one month after becoming engaged. I customized the design and made several tweaks to the original to really make it my own. I had my first fitting in August, the second in early September and the third, and final I might add, is on Friday! I can’t wait to see the finished product! I must admit, I suffer from a severe case of buyer’s remorse, and have found numerous dresses that have since begged the question “did I make the right choice?” In the end, there are so many stunners out there that you just have to be comfortable with your decision and know that it will look beautiful (at least that’s what they tell me).

Though I don’t plan on sharing my choice with you until after the main event, check out these beauties that have entertained my wandering eye:

Monique Lhuillier - Averie

Vera Wang - Farrah

Watters - Pheobe

Reem Acra

Melissa Sweet - Gigi

Vera Wang - Gemma

 

Now I understand why Kim Kardashian changed 3 times at her wedding - it’s so hard to pick just one!

Sincerely,

S