WTB Hearts: Garters by Kristi

“If love is blind, why is lingerie so popular?” – Author Unknown

The tradition of tossing the bride’s garter is slightly outdated but we still think garters are fabulous!  The European tradition was thought to bring good luck for a man to have an article of the bride’s attire.  The belief also states that the single man to catch it will be the next one to tie the knot and should share the next dance with the lady that catches the bouquet.  While this tradition might not be widely practised anymore, we love catching a glimpse of a flashy and unexpected garter.  Whether it’s used only for photos or to surprise your groom at the end of the night, they are such fun details that should not be forgotten.

Garters by Kristi is an online shop that features hundreds of garters to suit any bride.  They make fabulous shower or bachelorette gifts and the Messieurs are sure to love them.  She showcases  different sports teams, and an array of fun and colourful pieces to sport under your gown. There are various themed garters offered and each one has a small blue bow on it so they can be used as a bride's 'something blue'. For S’s bachelorette our girlfriends presented her with a Montreal Canadians garter and Mr. Y was thrilled! She managed to keep it a surprise until the wedding night and although he would have been thrilled to see anything under her dress, he was wowed when he saw his favourite hockey team’s logo tied around her leg.  The other great detail is that each garter comes with a garter to throw into the crowd and one to keep as a memento.  Check out her website and surprise your man or your friends with these innovative and fun garters!

New York Yankees Garter

For the Musical Bride

Pretty in Pink garter - would be cute to match your bridesmaids' dresses

Montreal Canadiens Garter - the one that S sported on her wedding night

For the Winter Bride

Leopard garter - for J!

Ottawa Senators garter - Mr. X would not be pleased



All of the above garters can be found at Garters by Kristi.  Happy shopping!

Until next time,

A & S

p.s. until December 31st you will receive $5 off your purchase if you mention 'facebook' in your comments.

Ice Ice Baby

"Frost yourself."  - Benjamin Barry, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days

Whether it’s the subtlety of diamond studs or the pizzazz of chandelier show stoppers, all brides want to sparkle on their big day. Tejani is a one stop shop for all that glitters, showcasing an array of earrings, necklaces and bracelets, crafted of gemstones and crystals, for brides and bridesmaids to choose from. They allow you to select a custom metal finish; silver or gold coloured for the classic gal and antique tones for that vintage look. For anyone out there without pierced ears, clip-on earrings are also another customizable option. Another major bonus - these stunning designs are totally budget friendly.

Here's a small sample of what Tejani has to offer;

Chandelier Statement Earrings - B188 - $95 USD

Classic Stud Earrings - B150 - $45 USD

Classic Stud Earrings - B124 - $45 USD

Vintage Chandelier Earrings - B187 - $125 USD

Classic Round Necklace - B177 - $235 USD

Classic Round Necklace - B0711R - $195 USD

Classic Openable Bracelet - B08105 - $175 USD

Openable Statement Bracelet - B194 - $195 USD

Stackable Non-Openable Bracelet - B0820 - $125 USD

all photos courtesy of Tejani

Gorgeously glamourous.

Sincerely,

S

Something Borrowed

“But I have learned that you make your own happiness, that part of going for what you want means losing something else. And when the stakes are high, the losses can be that much greater.”

― Emily Giffin, Something Borrowed

In follow up to our post about maintaining the tradition of Something Old, New, Borrowed and Blue, I would like to focus today on the “Borrowed”.  Traditionally, a bride is to borrow an item from a happily married friend or family member.  Ideally, the item is something the lender used or wore on her wedding day to pass along her good fortune in marriage to the new bride.  It is such an honour for the bride to carry or wear something sentimental from one of her family members, bridesmaids or friends.

When my sister (aka MOH) got married she had her veil inscribed with her initials and left out her middle initial intentionally.  Conveniently we share the same initials and she told me then that she would love if I one day used her veil as my ‘something borrowed’.  Leave it to my sister to plan on lending it before she even wore it herself.  I was so touched and knew one day I would take her up on the offer.   I plan to bring it with me for my first fitting and hopefully she’ll be there to help put it on properly (knowing me, I’d have it on backwards). 

If no one has offered a suitable item then feel free to ask someone close to you if they have something for you. And also consider your friends’ upcoming nuptials and offer anything you think they would like to ‘borrow’.  You could ask for a string of pearls from your mother, a cameo from your grandmother, your cousin’s wedding earrings, or a prettily embroidered handkerchief from your dad to tie around your bouquet.  Also, you might speak to your parents or grandparents about wearing something of a family member that has passed to have a part of them with you for the day. You could also get very creative on the tradition and “borrow” your parents or in-laws wedding song for your first dance.  Or take a trip to the library (I know it’s been a while) and “borrow” the book with your favourite quote, poem or reading to deliver during your speech or vows. Lastly, you could borrow a men’s dress shirt from your dad, brother, fiancé or groomsmen to wear while you get ready – it’s practical for hair and make-up and really cute.

Next up, something old.

Yours truly,

A

Welcome to Canada, Topshop!

Topshop has officially landed in Canada and as style savvy (and budget conscious) Canadians, we are ever so thankful to be graced by their presence. Finally, this great nation of ours has been granted access to what one of Britain’s famed retailers has to offer.

Setting up ‘shop’ in the Bay’s Yorkdale and Eaton Centre locations, hipsters and trendsetters alike can find a wide variety of designs to covet, from airy, chiffon blouses and chunky knits, to faux leather trouser pants and fabulous printed rompers. They also have a footwear and accessories collection, all of which can be shopped online at the Bay.

So if you're on the hunt for some honeymoon basics, or maybe a hot number for an upcoming event, take a cue from Kate Moss (for fashion tips; you should still eat lunch) and hit up Topshop.

For a shower or afternoon affair...

Floral Print Tuck Shift Dress

Side Tuck Chiffon Blouse and Multi Stripe Full Mini Skirt

Vintage Lace Swing Dress

Fur Collar Boyfriend Coat

Packing for the honeymoon...

Knitted Button Back Jumper and Circle Midi Skirt

Chiffon Placket Shirt and Faux Leather Trim Cigarette Trousers

Pastel Pansy Skirt Dress

All dressed up with SO many places to go...

Grosgrain Bodycon Tunic

Red Mesh Ruched Bodycon Dress

This SHOP is at the TOP of our list.

Until next time,

A & S

HB to my MOB!

My wedding was the absolute highlight of my life. The entire day was perfection, and the journey leading up to it as equally amazing, and my Mom is most definitely to thank for that!

I'd like to wish a very happy birthday to my Mama; the world's greatest MOB and simply the best mother and friend I could ever ask for! Love you, Mom!

Sincerely,

S

Birthday Bride!

Exactly 27 years ago today, the world was introduced to A!

The beautiful bride-to-be (and my partner in crime) is celebrating her b’day in style (obviously) and I wish I could be there to join in the festivities (why can’t they move Toronto and Montreal geographically closer together…why?!). JM and I plan on poppin’ some fizzy bubs and eating Loblaws cake in your honour!

So here’s to my bestie – wishing you a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY and may all of your dreams come true (which they undoubtedly will this coming February…did I mention less than 3 months away to the BIG DAY! Wojtek Wolski for Mr. X!). 

The Birthday Girl

 

I love you, A!

Sincerely,

S

WTB Hearts: Sweet Nuzz

Although today is not officially the first day of winter, it is the day of the first snowfall of the season! There’s something so beautiful about untouched, snow covered streets (except when it means having to clean off our cars!), but with the arrival of frost comes chilly days and nights.

Hot chocolate is the ultimate winter sipper; it brings back memories of being a kid and ice skating, days on the ski hill, and piling on as many marshmallows into the cup that would fit. Our Etsy shop of the week, SweetNuzz, brings us the warmth of hot cocoa and the cuteness of a favour all rolled up into one by offering hot chocolate on a stick! Not only are these little pops pretty to look at, but all you have to do is dunk in and drink up.

These tiny treats are perfect for holiday gifts or for guests of winter inspired soirees.

Check out some of the decadent varieties;

Dark Chocolate Mint

Dark Chocolate

Milk Chocolate Almond

Milk Chocolate

Chanukah Gift Set of 6

Christmas Stocking Stuffer Set of 6

all photos courtesy of etsy

These lil’ babies bring new meaning to ‘a dip in temperature’.

Until next time,

A & S

She said YES!

“The heart of marriage is memories.” – Bill Cosby

My good friend E got engaged over the weekend and I could not be more excited!! Last night we got together and everyone wanted to know “when and where”.  I was so eager and ecstatic that I almost forgot that it’s only been 2 days and plans are not made that fast.  I remember the week I got engaged very vividly (as I watched it from cloud nine) and I was very overwhelmed by those questions.  There are many things to consider before even scratching the surface of picking a date and venue.

My best advice for any newly engaged lovely ladies out there is to take a deep breath and realize it will not stay this overwhelming the entire time.  Once the main decisions are made, things will calm down quickly.  Try not to get bogged down by every detail just yet because you will have lots of time for the fun stuff.  For now, concentrate on the fact that you just got engaged to the love of your life and you get to plan a wedding! And you have a fancy, sparkly diamond to stare at!

Once the excitement settles in and you are ready to go, be sure to prioritize.  That is the key! Sit down with both sets of parents with a list of yours (and your Mr.’s) top 5 things that you want discussed right away. 

In my opinion the top 5 things to discuss are;

1. Dates - I suggest one of you brings out a calendar soon

2. Venue - have at least a handful picked out and book tours at all of them

3. Your dream wedding – try to imagine the type of wedding you want

4. Budget – this needs to be clear from the beginning (and constantly revisited)

5. Entertainment/Photography – these were the most important decisions to me so I suggest discussing vendors and booking them as soon as possible

Moreover, when you look at your top 5 decide which is the most important to you.  You might choose your dream venue and then find out it is not available on your desired date, or discover that the photographer you’ve been pining over is only available one weekend that month.  Prioritizing your top 5 will help avoid disappointment.  Deep down you know what you want and don’t ever be afraid to make it happen – this is your day!

Once your “when and where” are picked out, the rest will fall into place.  I found finding a venue very frustrating but as soon as we chose, the planning became so easy and exciting.  The dress shopping and cake tastings will be here before you know it, so enjoy the ride (because it’s the best ride ever!!).

Congrats again to the happy couple and best of luck in your plans. 

Yours truly,

A

All Those in Favour, Say I...Do!

Although not a requirement, wedding favours are a phenomenal way to add a special bonus to the guests’ experience. It’s a sweet gesture that enables your guests to take a piece of the affair home with them.   

At our wedding, we had miniature mason jars filled with Hershey Kisses and Hugs with a label that read “Hugs and Kisses from Mr. and Mrs.” Each ‘Kiss’ or ‘Hug’ had a round sticker on its bottom, some with our names and wedding date, others with graphics of champagne glasses, and all sorts of celebratory images. See the photo below - people loved them!

Etsy is the ultimate place to scout out innovative favour ideas. Order them from your fave shop or simply DIY! I’ve shared some of my top picks here;

Bottle Opener from Mariquan

Burlap Bottle Bag from Sweet C's Designs

Cinnamon Sugar Roasted 'Candy' Pecans from Sugar Tree Shop

Personalized Stone Coasters from Timeless Creations LLC

Wrapped Soap Favours from Prunella Soap

Personalized Shortbread Cookies from Katie's Something Sweet

S'more Love from Da Sweet Zpot

Wine Stopper from Olivilove

Printable Jam Labels from Blondie & Company

all photos taken from etsy.com

Which is your FAVOURite?

Sincerely,

S

Wedding Bells!!

"We have the greatest pre-nuptial agreement in the world.  It's called love."  - Gene Perret

After 10 years of dating, our childhood friend, Little J (we couldn’t resist!), is marrying Mr. I! Our bags are packed and we're ready for this jam-packed fairytale weekend.  Little J and Mr. I have been together since they were 16 and are a real testament of true love.  Leading up to today, we have watched them grow from high school boyfriend and girlfriend to a man and woman who love each other with every fibre inside.   

They've had quite an incredible journey; from Super Nintendo dates, ski club and prom, to a long distance relationship, graduations, becoming home owners...and finally a walk down the aisle! It will bring such joy to watch them tie the knot this weekend and officially become husband and wife.  We wish you both a big Mazel Tov and can’t wait to celebrate!! 

The Happy Couple

We will be sure to post all the gorgeous details and photos of their wedding weekend next week!

Is it tomorrow yet???

Until next time,

A & S

Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend

“My mother says I didn't open my eyes for eight days after I was born, but when I did, the first thing I saw was an engagement ring. I was hooked.” – Elizabeth Taylor

Getting engaged is one of the most thrilling milestones in life. The moment when it happens is full of nerve wracking excitement, for both parties involved (almost all guys are super nervous to pop the question…not because they’re afraid of the answer, but getting down on bended is kind of A BIG DEAL).

Traditionally speaking, when a man asks a woman for her hand in marriage, he also slides a pretty little (or not so little) sparkler on her finger to officially seal the deal. This is the part that can often be tricky; shopping for the ring. Some boyfriends have direction from their girls as to what she wants, while other dudes don’t have a clue. The key thing here is to be well informed before exploring the wonderful world of diamonds.

A little education on the subject can be most beneficial when deciding on the rock (one that will be worn for the rest of the woman’s life…no pressure or anything). Here is the ‘Cliff’s Notes’ version of Ring Bling 101;

The 4 C’s

The 4 C’s of a diamond are the ways in which a jeweler determines the stone's value.

Let's break it down...

• Cut - Refers to the shape of the stone, cutting style, proportions and finish. A good cut enhances the brilliance of the stone, allowing it to catch the light in its many facets and really sparkle.

• Clarity - The clarity of the diamond is the extent to which the stone reaches flawlessness. All stones have natural flaws (internal flaws are called inclusions; external ones are known as blemishes).  Although no diamond will be completely free of these imperfections, they are mostly invisible to the naked eye.

• Color – Rated on a graded scale, the colour of a diamond ranges from colourless to light yellow. The stones that are nearly colourless, or whitest, are more costly than the ones with a yellow or brown tint to them. Keep in mind, the way the diamond is set can change everything, and often the “right” setting can make the stone appear whiter.

• Carat – The carat is the actual weight of the diamond – this refers to the size of the stone.

Shapes and Cuts

As mentioned above, the cut of the diamond refers the way facets are cut into the stone. The shape, however, refers to the actual silhouette of the diamond. Certain shapes are cut in a specific way, while others can offer various cuts within the same shape. 

• Round/Brilliant – the most popular choice for engagement rings, the round shape and brilliant cut allows for maximum sparkle.

• Princess – a square shaped stone with intricate facets offering the radiance of a brilliant cut.

• Oval – offering optimal gleam as a variation of the round stone but longer in shape; often appears bigger than a round stone of the same carat weight.

• Marquise – an oblong cut that often appears larger than its carat weight with facets similar to a round stone.

• Emerald – features a glazed shine and a boxy shape, either square or rectangular, but requires a very high clarity grade as it tends not to exude as much sparkle as some others.

• Cushion – a soft rectangular or pillow-like square shape with rounded edges, this cut gives off a soft glow.

• Asscher – a square shape similar to a square emerald, the parallel facets of this cut transmit a mesmeric pattern within the stone.

• Pear – also known as a teardrop shape, round on one end and pointed at the other, and cut resembling a brilliant diamond.

• Radiant – a cross between an emerald and a round cut, this shape is similar to a princess stone but emits the sparkle of a round diamond.

all images courtesy of engagediamonds.com

Now that you’re 'in the know', the best thing to do is research all the various settings online and if a proposal seems to be on the horizon, take a trip to a reputable jeweler that you’ve worked with in the past, or that comes highly recommended. A little window shopping never hurt anyone!

*A tip for the boys – if you’re afraid to make the wrong choice, or that she won’t like it, ask her mom, best friend, or snoop through her browser history…chances are she’s done some preliminary scouting before.

*A tip for the girls – don’t erase your browser history ;)

Sincerely,

S