Another iconic designer to add to the growing list at White Toronto: Oscar de la Renta. For you lucky brides who are able to afford this magnificent piece of art – congrats! If not, go ahead and try it on anyway!!! Who says you’re obligated to buy? No one. But, if you fall in love with it, how could you say no? Enjoy!
Source: White Carpet
Last week I left Toronto to head down to Nassau, Bahamas where the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada (WPIC) was having their annual international course at Sheraton Nassau. And this was my FIRST TIME in the Bahamas — or the Carribbean for that matter. I’m so glad I jumped on the opportunity to experience the culture and people of The Bahamas! I had a great time and will be definitely coming back again – and again!!! Can’t beat the price of rum down there! I met some amazing people and learned even more about weddings! I can’t wait to start planning Destination Weddings in the near future!?
Sheraton Nassau now offers an all-inclusive package if you stay at their resort! And it was an amazing place to stay: Casino inside, shops, spa, pools, poolside bar, outdoor venues for wedding ceremonies (gazebo, beach gazbeo, canopy on the beach), internet access, balcony, water sports, and you can’t beat the hospitality! Every person I met while I was there for 4 days was absolutely generous!!
All photos by Maria Badian/Envision Elegance
Wedding season is here!! Whether you’re newly engaged or soon to be married, if you’re still shopping around for the “perfect dress”, don’t forget to check out White Toronto this weekend May 20 & May 21st for Jenny Packham’s Bridal Trunk Show. A well known British fashion designer with flagship stores in London and Paris – and hopefully soon to expand to America (and get her foot in Canada!), you’re sure to make a wise choice if you choose one of her designs! It can be simple, elegant, clean and whimsical – to an elaborate princess gown!
I had the opportunity to attend a South Asian Weddings: UNVEILED Seminar produced by Jag Brar, owner and lead coordinator of my big day EVENT PLANNING & DESIGNS. A full day of learning about Sikh, Hindu and Muslim weddings and traditions (and let me tell you, there’s A LOT of traditions!). We learned how to tie a saree, makeup tips, mehndi application (i.e. henna); and graced with the presence of Bhangra dancers and a fashion show of traditonal outfits for the wedding, and a Gurdwara tour!
I haven’t attended a South Asian wedding yet (although I am attending next month, June!) and I wanted to learn as much as I could so I don’t embarass myself, as well as understand other religions when it comes to weddings… and perhaps gain some new clients by opening more doors!
And we’re not just talking about the traditional wedding ceremony & reception – we also have:
– pre-engagement rituals (and not just the standard asking the father of the bride for her hand in marriage; known as the thaka or roka)
– formal engagement rituals (more than just a dinner announcing your engagement — the bride and groom each have their own tradition; known as Mangni, Saggai or Kudmai and Chunni)
– pre-wedding ceremonies (example: mehndi or henna ceremony)
– ceremony (Anand Karaj)
– post ceremony rituals & reception
…So that’s why it last a few days!
Ultimately, the couple (i.e. YOU) can still include a modern touch to your wedding. You can change into a white gown if you wish and still throw your bouquet! It’s still a wedding, no matter what culture and religion.
Thanks to a random discovery via Twitter of the Hip and Urban Girl’s Guide (aka HUG), I get to meet the most amazing people from all walks or life and bond over amazing food! Founded by Lisa Ng and Wendy Kam, these amazing women get to plan/sponsor/host events and take amazing trips. The first event I attended was Hug Lux – manicures at Lux Spa in Yorkville among 30 women networking.
This past Thursday I had the opportunity to go to Massimo Bruno’s kitchen and learn how to make homemade pasta. Considering I don’t like getting my hands dirty – and I’m not very good in the kitchen – this was a great opportunity to watch first hand ( *** just don’t trust me with a knife!! *** ) I love meeting new people and I get to take my lovely better half as company. A little shy? No worries! Just introduce yourself – have a glass or two of wine and starting talking!
