Bride and The City

The Perfect Fit

2012-01-31T14:31:00.011-05:00

A Quick Guide to Wearing Today's Trends - For the Style Impaired ;)

As a wedding & event stylist who offers the application of the styling experience to all aspects of a couple's event, I'm often asked to style engagement shoots. May seem rather odd to be styled for something that is meant to be a reflection of a couple in their natural element, but engagements and weddings are all about a bit (or a lot!) of glam so you can't blame someone for fussing over their look.

And so the question inevitably comes up, "What do I wear?!". My answer is always the same, "look great and feel great". Vague, I know! But here's what I mean. Knowing what to wear, selecting which trends work for you, understanding what look works best for your body type, etc., all really boils down to one rule of thumb: MAKE IT LOOK (and feel) EFFORTLESS! If you glance in the mirror and you look overdone, if you shift around because you feel out of your element, if it simply doesn't feel right, it's not working! An article of clothing that's meant for you should look like it's meant for you. It needs to just fall into place, both on body and in image. You'll know it's right when you're confident enough to work it!

So how does this rule of thumb apply when you're trying to incorporate new trends? When you're trying to avoid falling into old patterns that you know best and are most comfortable with? Well, that's when Rule #2 comes in: START WITH SMALL DOSES PLEASE! How about an example by way of the colour of the year....Pantone's Tangerine Tango.

I bet if you've walk through a mall in the last couple of weeks, as Spring Collections hit the racks, you noticed an abundance of this playful, sexy and vibrant colour. It's absolutely everywhere! But hold back....that doesn't mean that you should stock up on everything tangerine tango! Following fashion or colour trends is not about taking a look you saw and replicating it. It's about updating your personal look in however subtle or obvious way to incorporate the trend in a way that you're most comfortable with. If you feel best in black and 3/4's of your wardrobe is full of it, don't go out and revamp everything to make it an ocean of tangerine tango just because it's the colour of the year. Instead try a gorg pashmina or a hot pair of four inch stilettos in the lovely shade. Eventually what you'll find with all your baby step efforts in implementing new trends is a new you, a new look, that's effortless. ;)

So next time you look to revamp your wardrobe, go to select your attire for an event, and even and especially when you're picking that so very important wedding day accessory (the dress!), remember the rules....make it effortless and start slow!

Happy Styling!

Kasia

A Wedding Inspired by Fashion, Really?

2012-01-24T01:06:00.003-05:00

Yes! Really!

Usually, when I meet with clients and explain the angle I work from when creating a new event design concept, namely using current fashion trends as inspiration, they're always quick to get excited about it (especially after seeing past theme swatches). Only recently, when exhibiting at a bridal show, did anyone ever question the connection between the two, the connection between fashion and a creative concept. At first I was quick to dismiss the lack of understanding, it was a gentlemen asking the question after all. ;) But the more I thought about it, the more I appreciated the need to make the connection clear.

Just like fashion and art so naturally lend themselves to one another, same goes for fashion and creative event designs. It's all about beauty and uniqueness and finding that option that's perfectly tailored to you. Just like a dress can be inspired by an artist (think the classic Schiaparelli and Dali connection), an event's design can certainly take shape from a fabric swatch or the latest trend on high fashion runways. And let's not forgot the importance of personalizing an event. What's more you than your personal attire choices?

Still not convinced? Or confused on how to execute? Perhaps an example may help. This time last year I was approached to produce a creative shoot for publication submission to Canada's top luxury wedding mag, WedLuxe. I jumped at the chance and proceeded to tread very carefully with the direction I decided to take. Taking inspiration from the hot textile of the moment, and certainly forever a classic, lace, my mind started to wander to classic fashion and wedding icons. I naturally landed on the timeless elegance of Grace Kelly and her famous lace adorned wedding dress. And so the design was set into motion and shortly thereafter the shoot took place on a cold, dark and damp March day. I loved everything that we did with that creative but being the perfectionist that I am I questioned whether or not the selected design was the right one. A month later Kate Middleton, with the world watching, walked down the aisle in a Grace Kelly inspired gown. What major confirmation! Did I mention one of the images made the cover of WedLuxe? ;)

For those of you who work better with visuals, here is the textile swatch that started it all and a few images from that shoot. Hope this helps to clarify things...can fashion really inspire an event's creative design? Abso-fricken-lutely! ;)

Special Thanks to our Contributing Partners:

Alex of lifeimages for these incredible images
Veronica Di Santo for the incredible Di Santo gowns
Creations by Gitta for the stunning tabletop decor and florals
Patricia of Cre8ive Invitations for the perfectly designed stationary
Cakes by Konstadin for the yummy but too gorg to eat cake

Let’s Get Creative with This One!

2011-09-28T16:43:00.001-04:00

An Update on the Fundraiser

Ah....the Wedding for Wishes fundraiser (see previous post). Forgive me but I’m about to break a cardinal rule of proper writing and will rely on a bunch of clichés to explain the journey our little campaign team has recently been on.

As is the case with anything worth waiting for, the last few months of work have seen many peaks and valleys, ups and downs, highs and lows. Many doors have opened only to be shut again. We got excited and disappointed time and time again. L But now we’re on the up and that’s the track we’re staying on! J

With approximately 6 weeks left until what is certain to be an amazing wedding event, I’m styling after all :p, the Wedding for Wishes campaign has just launched a phenomenal campaign video that we hope to have go viral and encourage many across the city, the country and potentially the globe, to get involved in something beautiful.Thanks to the support of the wonderful people at Make A Wish Canada, the big hearts of many random individuals who recently found themselves at Dundas Square, coaxed by us to participate J, and my amazing friends at PGP Studios, we now have a heartfelt and inspirational promo video that I can’t stop watching. The vision was brilliant when our team pulled it together. The final product is even better.

OK think I’ve talked it up enough! J Please take 3 minutes out of your day to watch this clip and forward it to all your friends and family. Please help us make this go viral! And of course any contribution you can make is much appreciated.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQeIVnX1dR4

Best!

Kasia

Want to Help Raise $1.1m for a Kid's Charity?....UM OK!

2011-06-09T00:19:00.002-04:00

So This Is What Philanthropy Feels Like!

Was it a sheer coincidence that I met Nora and Val on my birthday? Or the universe saying, "here you go. have fun!". I put my money on the latter. Long story short....just two short months ago I met Nora and Val for the first time. Since that time we managed to go from three people chatting on a couch about the possibility of raising money for a charity, to a team partnered up with Make-A-Wish Canada, with a website, and a facebook page, and a just released media campaign. Not too bad!

We've of course had tremendous help from wonderful people like Val's brother Ravi and his lovely wife Shani. Let's not forget Dave and Adam of Defined Presence....thanks for the website boys! Among all the other things you do! And then there's Jeremy Bieber...thanks for just so happening to be close friends with Val, and a great human being! (Jeremy is a pivotal part of our campaign team).

Tremendous feat and just a taste of what's to come! We're not holding back! We're currently deep in the midst of ironing out all the events and activities that will help to grow our following and donation pool. As an insider's tip...watch out for our YouTube reality series showcasing our event and campaign, as they unfold.

So stay tuned for more amazing details and watch our story as it grows on www.weddingforwishes.com, facebook and Twitter. So excited to share the story!

Nora and Val....you're beautiful! Inside and Out. XO

Best!

Kasia

Thanks for another brilliant pic Alex!

The Cover of Covers

2011-05-30T23:51:00.000-04:00

You're probably thinking..."another hiatus, right!" But it was, and for an amazing reason. Lots on the go recently, lots! Focusing on creative design and rightfully so. I recently had the pleasure of working with a group of amazing wedding pros and together we created an incredible photo spread. We were hoping to get into a great wed mag with just a few photos but instead we got.....THE COVER OF WEDLUXE MAGAZINE!

Needless to say, this is just the beginning! Can't wait to share the full spread details with you all!

Best!

Kasia

Special Thanks To:

Gitta & Julie of Creations by Gitta - for their incredible decor and floral support
Veronica Di Santo of Veronica Si Santo Atelier - for the most perfect dresses
Charlotte Jenkins of Gotstyle - for the incredibly stylish suits
Allison Kam - for the amazing hair
Heather Snowie - for amazing makeup
Konstadin of Cakes by Konstandin - for the edible art
Patricia of Cre8ive Invitations- for the prettiest paper I've ever seen
Tara of Tara Fava Jewellery - for the perfect accessories
Karolina of Karolina Keeler - for lovely headpieces
Wayne Andrade & Kelleth Cuthbert - for being beautiful, lovely and professional
and of course Alex of lifeimages photography - for capturing it all in such a way that they just couldn't say no

Shamless Plug....But One Made up of Great Stuff!

2011-02-02T21:41:00.000-05:00

OK, so I'm not a huge fan of shamelessly promoting one's services or products on one's blog but I can't resist! I'm really excited about the latest products added to my line of weddings gifts and accessories and have to share the news.

Here's a quick overview of a few of my top favs.

Mini Ghost Chairs - My absolute top pick for 2011 wedding accessory must haves! Whether used to hold a sweet treat for your guests or to act as a unique display option for your place cards, these little chairs add a touch of trendy to any affair. Personalize it with a monogram sticker in a colour that matches your wedding theme. ($2.99 each. sticker sold separately)

Birdcages, Birdcages, Everywhere - The perfect decorative touch to any outdoor wedding. Great as an alternative to the boring old "money box" or as a unique centerpiece option when filled up with oversized blooms. Also available in miniature version. Throw one onto every plate for a whimsical version of a place card holder. ($44.98 each for item shown, $5.98 each for miniature version)

Antique Style Bottle Opener - It's all about giving your guests something they'll use. There's nothing more pointless than spending your budget dollar on guest gifts that will go from wedding reception to bottom desk drawer. Give them something unique that they'll use time and again. ($2.98 each including packaging)

I'll stop there because I have to stop somewhere! Check out my planning site for more of my favourite picks. Or shop my online boutique to view all our great products.

Best!
Kasia

Bridal Glamour on a Budget (And No One Will Know!)

2010-12-29T09:13:00.010-05:00

Want that exclusive couture gown but can't afford it? Want that glamorous sparkle that every bride should have without racking up the credit card? It's easy and fun!

Gone are the days of boring white sateen bridal shoes and jewelery pieces that are hard to distinguish one from the other, think cubic zirconia and pearl choker-style necklaces with matching earrings! Lucky for today's bride nothing is encouraged more than touches of personality through little unique details. Think a hot pink pair of stilettos, an antique oversized set of pearls, or a set of Swarovski chandelier earrings. And nothing screams glamour like colour and crystals! By pairing up a simple and pretty gown (the more detail the higher the ticket price) with some stunning accessories, you'll be sure to look like a million couture bucks!

As for where to get it, that's the best part...anywhere. And by anywhere I mean all the places you would shop for your everyday accessory needs. Winners, here we come! If fact, stay away from specialty stores. Specialty stores, for the most part, have higher ticket prices because they serve a niche market. And like I always say, don't be afraid to shop online! If a boutique doesn't have to pay rent, electricity bills and staff, the savings are offered up to customers through lower price points. I know, I have an online boutique. ;)

So go easy on the pocket book and have some fun creating your personalized glamorous look!

Best!

Kasia

photo courtesy of marthastewartweddings.com

Be My Maid of Honour....I DO! Or Do You?

2010-12-14T16:01:00.008-05:00

SELECTING YOUR WEDDING PARTY....IT'S A SERIOUS COMMITMENT!

OK Ladies, listen up! There seems to be a common misconception out there that planning a wedding, being in a bridal party, being a maid of honour is all fun and games. So not the case! There's a reason that wedding planners such as myself have made a career out of helping couples create their ultimate wedding experiences, it's a full time job! One of the ways to make sure it's a fun full time job is to surround yourself with people who are willing and ready to help you along the way, for better or for worse!

For a long time I was surprised to hear that one of the most common of bride's complaints was how little their bridesmaids and surprisingly their maids of honour pitched in throughout the process. Then I did a little bit of digging and realized that a lot of brides were making the mistake of asking people who they did not share a close relationship with to be involved in their wedding. Big mistake!

When deciding on who you want included in your bridal party, approach the task by thinking of your bridesmaids and especially your maid of honour as your pseudo wedding planners. They are the people who you will need to rely on for those not so glorious tasks throughout the entirety of your planning process. They have to be willing to visit countless bridal boutiques as you shop for your ideal wedding dress, to open and record the many RSVPs as they come in, to roll up their sleeves and stuff candy bags until 3 am if and when necessary. It's not a job for the weary!

On the flip side, many brides are selective with the bridal party members they select only to be disappointed by the lack of effort and support they soon encounter. The only advice I can offer up here is to be upfront with your expectations from the get go. Print off a expected "to do" list that you can hand off to the person you're asking to join you on your wedding journey. Let them know what you need help with and tell them to feel free to take some time to think about it before committing themselves. And of course, don't be offended if someone declines to participate. Being in a bridal party is not only a time commitment but also a financial one that some may not be in the position to afford.

Weddings are a wonderful thing that notoriously bring out the best and worst in the many who are involved. Avoid any unnecessary disappointment and stress during a time that should be remembered fondly by surrounding yourself with the best support system you can.

Best!

Kasia

The Little Details

2010-11-23T15:02:00.001-05:00

Speaking of Shabby Chic (see previous post) and all the little details that work together to bring it to life, here's some inspiration....

While recently perusing the internet I came across the website of a fantastic little shop in Campbelton New Brunswick that sells gorgeous custom made vintage signs. They also carry a wide range of ready made products, including home decor pieces, but their wedding line, "Sweetest Moments", is exceptionally to die for! And fear not, they deliver!

Here's a link to their website...

http://www.mypaintedporch.com/

If you were looking for a place to spur on your quest for inspiration for a shabby chic wedding, look no more!

Best!

Kasia

photo courtesy of www.mypaintedporch.com

Shabby Chic...Yes Please!

2010-11-13T22:12:00.000-05:00

So I have a new obsession for all things shabby chic and oddly enough it wasn’t sparked by a wedding theme design I worked on but rather in the decor of my new home. What’s great about it (other than the fact that my house looks fantastic!) is that it’s totally wedding transferable and it’s fabulous!

Here’s the low down on the how to:

1. It’s all about pastels, whites and creams. Think pretty. Think soft. Think cozy.

2. It’s all about patterns. Whether they be floral, checker, plaid, or a combo of all three, it'll work. Just make sure you keep a consist colour scheme when blending patterns to ensure a common thread.

3. It’s all about the details. The true Shabby Chic ambiance is not created by any one given thing but rather a blend of small details that work perfectly together. A throw, a candle, a sign, a picture...

4. It’s all about vintage. If it’s worn in, if it’s rusty, if it’s chipped, it works!

Here’s a link to a great website I used when decorating my place...

http://www.cottagehomedecorating.com/shabby-chic-decorating.html

Hope it gets you off on the right track to creating your shabby chic wedding experience!

Best!

Kasia

(photo courtesy of Martha Stewart Weddings)

Deciding on a Colour Palette...OH THE AGONY!

2010-11-03T19:45:00.001-04:00

So I'm curled up on the couch this last Sunday, catching up on some wedding mags that I've been meaning to get to forever, and I did something I haven't done since I started in this business. I started to flip through the pages as a layman. And the first thing that came to my mind....oh these poor brides!

Wedding magazines are incredible resources for inspiration and guidance for all things weddings but if you're picking up a magazine with a clean planning palette, with no vision in mind, you're heading for deep, dark waters!

Here's the thing. First things first in planning. You need to have a vision in mind before doing any research or making any decisions. And that vision generally comes from a theme and/or a colour palette. So where do you start? Here's a three step approach that should help...

1. Think Formality

Do you want a casual family style dinner? An ultra formal full reception? A backyard party? Where you have your wedding and the kind of ambiance you want to rule the evening will certainly help you to at the very least eliminate some options.

2. Think Venue

Is your venue a banquet hall, a hotel, a historic home? Are you getting married on 140 acres of greenery? Taking a good look at where you're having your reception and what the venue naturally has to offer will help you narrow down your choices dramatically.

3. Think You

Above all else you want your wedding reception to be a reflection of who you are as individuals and/or as a couple. Take a cue from something that means a great to the both of you, whether that be a local charity, a favourite movie, or a classic novel. Making it personal makes it that much easier to pull off.

Now you're ready to pick up those magazines and instead of getting lost in the abundance of beauty that's out there, you'll hone in on what's right for you.

So off you go! Make it beautiful and make it yours!

Best!

Kasia

I'm Back! And Ready to Blog!

2010-11-03T19:18:00.000-04:00

Here I thought my last blogging hiatus (see previous post) was bad but it had nothing on my most recent stint! But it was not for nothing.

As we slowly close out our 2010 wedding season and quickly start prepping for 2011, I sit in awe at all that we did. I'm not sure where we found the time?!

There was the new service launch, the new website launch, new partnerships, new friends and of course the pleasure in planning many wonderful and memorable events. But I have to say, I've missed my little blog escape and so am recommitting myself to more frequent and always relevant posts that you can all hopefully use to make your wedding planning process that much more enjoyable.

Post Soon!

Kasia

All Hail the Queen

2010-06-15T00:45:00.000-04:00

Of Weddings That Is!

Hello to all my blogging friends! My apologies for my recent hiatus but it’s been a busy few weeks. We’re been working ourselves silly with all things weddings, including a new service launch that I’ll feature on the blog shortly. But on to today’s discussion...wedding splendour!

I was recently privileged to find myself at the book release party of the wedding famous Grace Ormonde. Now if you’re either planning a wedding for yourself, your friend, or your client and you’re sitting there scratching your head over who Grace Ormonde is, you need to drop everything you’re doing, run to your nearest Chapters, Shoppers, Superstore, wherever, and pick up her magazine immediately!

Perhaps it’ll ring a bell when I refer to Wedding Style, the magazine that stands out among the rest as clearly something offering unique options for today’s bride? It’s a tribute to weddings with every page filled with what’s hot, what’s new and what’s stunning. It features some of the most glamorous and beautiful of real weddings and from one page to the next the sighs of appreciation just keep coming! And then there’s the book....oh my! I can’t seem to stop looking through it again and again! In fact, I think it’s about all I’ve done every evening before bed since the launch! I seem to pick up on something new every time I pick it up. My mind races with new ideas and ways to create lovely for my clients.

I’ll be the first to say that what you’ll find featured in both the magazine and the book are not commodities that all can afford. Regardless, both prints certainly are the ultimate sources for idea generation and inspiration for any bride to be. If you’re looking for ways to make your wedding day truly unique and extraordinary, look no further. If you can afford to buy that Harry Winston watch for your Mr.Right, or that Vera Wang Dress for your big day, then fantastic! If you can’t, do yourself a favour and take the time to be inspired by the best and find ways to make it your own.

So with this blog entry I say thanks to you, Ms. Grace Ormonde, for an amazingly inspirational magazine, a gorgeous book, and a great event! It was an honour!

Best!

Kasia

Best Thing Since Sliced Bread!

2010-05-11T15:25:00.001-04:00

Adding Wow Factor on a Tight Budget

We've said it. You'll see it in magazines. I'm sure someone on Rich Bride, Poor Bride has made the suggestion. When working with a tight budget, you have to creative with your centerpieces and consider alternatives to pricey floral arrangements.

So off you go. You've decided to get crafty. Then you think, "I still want it to be pretty"! And pretty it can still be. It's all about the little things. If you're considering any type of votive option, we've got pretty for you alright, in a tiny deceptive bead! Water Pearls!

Water Pearls come in a variety of colours, cost next to nothing (approximately $1 for every litre of hydrated pearls), and are sure to have all your guests "ohhhing" and "ahhhhing'! Whether added sporadically or in an abundance, these little pearls can help tie in any colour theme and offer a unique feel to any room.

Need more info on the pearls....check out our online boutique....

http://www.preludetoakiss.weddingstar.com/product/water-pearls

All the Best!

Kasia

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something...Pink?

2010-04-15T22:56:00.002-04:00

Add Some Colour to Your Wedding Day Look

Considering the name of my blog, an homage to the incredible Sex and The City for those of you a bit out of touch, it won't come as a surprise to you that I absolutely love and I mean LOVE shoes! Be it an incredible $400 pair of Manolo Blahniks, or the latest great find at Winners, there's a place in my closest for them all. Or should I say on my 'wall o shoes' that my wonderful husband created just for me in our basement! So as I flip through the pages of today's bridal mags, I'm thrilled to see that getting creative with your bridal shoe is being encouraged by all.

Traditionally most brides have gone the way of the white satin shoe to match their pretty white dress. But I say, move over tradition, a fantastic pair of Jimmy Choo's are making their way through! Today's bride need not worry about keeping it conservative with her shoe. Today's bride should feel free to throw on any colour or style of shoe she so pleases. And throw in a purse to match while you're at it!

Your bridal shoe can have crystal embellishments, floral accessories, or straps going every which way. Think of it as another way of expressing yourself, your personality, on your wedding day. Personalizing your look with a great pair of shoes will not only make you feel like a million bucks but it'll also contribute to making your day your way, as it should be. You can even get crazy and link in your shoe with your theme. If it's a beach wedding, don't even think twice about throwing on a bedazzled pair of flip flops.

So as you search for your ever so important bridal day attire, remember, pink is ok! No, pink is fantastic!

All the Best!

Kasia

picture courtesy of: www.fashionchicks.co.uk

Bridal Show News

2010-04-09T15:48:00.000-04:00

There's a New Kid in Town!

For all those who missed the January Bridal Show blitz, listen up. Long Valley Productions, the production team behind the hit TV show Last Bride Standing, have created the next big bridal show to hit Toronto, Toronto's Bridal Show, and it's happening at the end of this month.

The show will take place at the Toronto Congress Centre starting Friday April 30th, through to Sunday May 2nd. 150-200 of the GTA's best vendors will gather to provide couples with exceptional wedding service options, not to mention great deals. In addition to exciting fashion shows, amazing door prizes and creative vendor displays, couples will also have the opportunity to attend free seminars where industry professionals will share trade secrets on how to create the perfect wedding.

Best part is, Prelude to a Kiss will be there! Come see our blog come to life in our exciting and exclusive seminar featuring tips on how to incorporate today's latest trends into your wedding, without blowing your budget. We'll of course be offering exciting bridal show promotions on all our planning services, as well as on our extensive line of wedding gifts, favours and accessories. We'll also be giving away several great prizes included a free Wedding Day Coordination Package!

Check out the Toronto's Bridal Show website for all show details:

http://www.torontosbridalshow.com/index.html

Looking forward to seeing you all there!

All the Best!

Kasia

These are a Few of our Favourite Things....

2010-04-01T14:51:00.001-04:00

Recent Trends that are Sticking Around for Good Reason

As is the case with all trends, wedding trends by their very nature come and go and with many we say good riddance! That said, there are classics that seem to pop up again and again over time. Be it with new twists or in traditional ways, they always find their way back into the wedding world and we say thank goodness! Here are a few of our favourites and how to incorporate them into your wedding.

For the Ceremony: Celebratory Confetti & Wedding Bubbles

There’s no better feeling then taking your first walk as life partners. Couples often refer to the feeling as one of giddiness, like that of a couple of kids skipping along! And there are few things more “classic wedding” then guests adorning a couple lovingly with rice confetti in celebration. Unfortunately many venues no longer allow the use of rice or other confetti products that gather on the floor and require clean up. Fortunately a pretty and fun alternative has found its way into weddings...Bubbles! Wedding Bubbles are a whimsical alternative, come in a variety of packaging options to suit varying themes and are super inexpensive.

For the Reception: Guest Entertainment & Photo Booths

Couples often have trouble figuring out what to do with their guests during the gap between the Ceremony and the Reception. You’re whisked off by your photographer for your big photo shoot and your guests are left waiting by idly. Photo Booth Rentals are a fantastic and fun recent trend that helps solve this classic dilemma. Guests have a great time kicking back and being silly and you get to capture yet another aspect of your incredible day. Alternatively, for a more budget friendly version, get your hands on a Polaroid camera and have one member of the family play photographer. Have your guests sign their individual pictures with special messages and stick them up on a wall for all to see.

For the Guests: Wedding Favours & the Candy Buffet

Wedding Favours or Bomboniere have been around for a long time. Giving your guests a token of appreciation is not a new trend. What does change over time are the trinkets that couples select as their giveaway. Traditionally candy has been a longstanding favourite; thankfully we have come a long way from candy covered almonds tucked into organza pouches. One of our favourites is the super trendy candy buffet. Using a variety of display options to hold your treats, including varying sizes and shapes of vases or cake stands, you can make your display look cute or classy depending on the sweet tooth item of choice. Get creative with your baggies and your container adornments and your giveaway will be both easy on the eyes and the belly!

For the New Couple: A Grand...Exit?

It’s commonplace for a couple to make a grand entrance into their reception. The music plays, the guests stand and cheer, and in walk the newlyweds. But what about finishing off the night right? In the past it was just as commonplace to see couples leave their reception and guests in the same grand way. Think My Best Friend’s Wedding. The big exit is making its way back into today’s wedding trends and I for one am thrilled! Your wedding day is all about you in the spotlight and making that final grand statement is a great way to end it all off. Play it up by changing into a great new outfit and driving away in a classic car dragging some good old cans behind you. Why not throw in a “JUST MARRIED” sign while you’re at it!

I hope you find inspiration from these, some of my favourite wedding things. Just remember that your wedding day is all about you, so no matter what you do, or how you do it, be it old, new, borrowed or blue, just make it yours and have fun!

All the Best!

Kasia

Buyer Beware!

2010-03-23T13:57:00.000-04:00

If it Seems to Good to be True, IT IS!

Everyone loves a great deal. I love a great deal! Especially on a fantastic new pair of designer shoes! But that doesn't mean I'll purchase a knock off. Not only can you see it from a mile away, but even the best knock off doesn't come with long term quality. And if there's one day that demands nothing but quality, it's your wedding!

Searching for the right wedding vendors to service your big day is a daunting and grueling task. There seem to be millions of choices and a mass array of package options. So to get you started on the right path, let's review some basics:

1. Start with a Realistic Budget and Stick to it. Set yourself up with the right starting point by making sure your budget is realistic when compared to the product / service you're expecting to receive. From there, don't waste your time looking at vendors you can't afford and skip over the ones that are below your price point. You know what you are willing and able to spend, so concentrate your efforts on those vendors who fit that budget.

2. Compare Apples to Apples. When price shopping makes sure the packages you're comparing offer the same standard of service and the same perks. If the wording used is ambiguous, just ask the vendor for clarification. And remember, price isn't everything! You don't want to get caught up in a pricing match, only to realize that the end result is poor service.

3. Beware of the "Too Good" Deals. Generally speaking, you get what you pay for. If someone is below the market average, ask yourself and them why? Quality vendors charge accordingly. Remember you're not just paying for a product but also for the service that goes with it. That's not to say that you should rule out professionals who are just starting out and trying to build a client base and a portfolio, hence the lower than average pricing. Just make sure you fully understand what you're getting in the end.

For the most part, it's about your due diligence. If you're working with a wedding planner than you've got the bases covered. They'll know which questions to ask to make sure you're getting what you need. If you're doing it on your own just keep in mind that you should ask however many questions you need to, to ensure you walk away feeling comfortable about what you've just paid for. In the case of vendors with tangible products, i.e. a transportation company or a DJ, don't be afraid to ask to see the products. Check out the cleanliness of the vehicles or the standard of musical equipment. You don't need to be an expert to pick out a worn down car or a sound system that looks like it has had it's share of tough times!

And alway remember the service aspect. Do you mesh well with the professional? Are your personalities a match? You want to make sure that every wedding vendor you work with is on the same page as you in your wedding day vision. After all, it's your day!

All the Best!

Kasia

Tips for a Budget Friendly Wedding

2010-03-10T20:03:00.000-05:00

Cut Some Corners Without Compromising on Style

Unless you’re one of the lucky few where budget is not a factor for your wedding, chances are you’re going to have to cut some corners at some point in the planning process. Considering your wedding is one of the most important days of your life, the key is to cut the right corners. The following tips are some creative ideas on how you can save money wisely without compromising your final goal, a beautiful wedding.

Wedding Favours:

You want to properly thank your guests for their gifts and for celebrating your special day with you but favours can get expensive, especially when you’re having a large wedding. Thankfully you can easily do some penny pinching here all without anyone being the wiser. Here are a couple of great ways to save yourself some money:

Package your own Favours. A lot of gift stores either charge extra for packaging or include it in the product markup. Although you’ll need a hand with this one, and that’s what bridesmaids and wedding planners are for, packaging your own favours will save you money and can be done well in advance, saving you last minute stress.

Have a Candy Buffet. A recently popular trend, more and more couples are going for this option and for good reason. A candy buffet not only looks great but it’s fun and who doesn’t love candy? And it’s as easy and budget friendly as a visit to your local Dollar Store and Walmart.

Prelude Tip: Don’t think you can make this one more formal? Of course you can! Consider chocolate instead of candy, raised glass stands instead of vases and decorate your favour bags with lace.

Décor Tips:

Décor is another area that can get pricey, but it’s also an important part of your day. The good news is there are some really easy ways you can save a few bucks without compromising on style or effect. Here are just a few:

A Centerpiece Spin. There’s no cardinal rule that says you have to have florals for your centerpieces. That’s not to say that flowers aren’t beautiful, but they can also get very expensive. Instead consider creative alternatives that match your theme, like vases filled with crystals and candles.

Double Up. Make your décor do double duty by having your centerpieces as your favours. Adorn each table with candleholders in varying heights. At the end of the night each couple takes home one holder. Not only is your gift practical but what's more romantic than a candlelight room!

Reception Setup:

As the most expensive part of your budget, taking up 40-50% of your available finances, this is a good place to look for some budget friendly options. That said, there’s good reason your reception venue takes up half of your budget. Your reception is the most important aspect of the day and not an area you want to cheap out on. But frugal and smart you can be! Consider some of these easy to implement tips.

A Toast to the Cocktail. Consider a cocktail reception for just your closest family and friends. Cutting down on the number of hours your celebration will last not only cuts the cost of the venue itself but will also save on other expensive aspects like food, hors d'oeuvres versus a 4 or 5 course meal, entertainment, just a few hours of solo guitarist is a beautiful touch and potentially less expensive than a DJ, and alcohol, the less time they have to consume the less they’ll consume!

Cash Bar Alternatives. As a professional wedding planner I would never recommend a couple to go with the cash bar option. You wouldn’t charge your friends for drinks if they came to your home for a celebration, you shouldn’t do so just because you’ve opted for a large venue. But you can consider a smart and money savvy alternative, a limited bar. This can be accomplished by serving only wine and beer or you can include one popular and versatile spirit like vodka. Create a signature cocktail to make it that much more appealing.

And then of course the obvious…

The easiest ways to save money across the board:

Get married during the off season months including January, February, March and November
Get married on any day other than Saturday

If you’re not dead set on a summer wedding or you’re ok with a Friday celebration, go for it. Many vendors provide off season rates.

I hope that you have found these tips useful. The best news is we’re just grazing the surface here. There are many more ways in which you can save yourself money. It's just a matter of getting creative.

All the Best!

Kasia

Tips on How to Successfully Execute a Wedding Theme

2010-03-04T14:08:00.000-05:00

The Essential Basics of Wedding Themes

Ah, the wedding theme! One bride’s joy, another bride’s pain! Here’s the thing though, you simply can’t have a wedding without a theme. Even those who go about planning their wedding without a conscious theme in mind, still end up with one. Think about it. Considering all the many components that come together to create a wedding, if you didn’t have a common thread linking them it would be one big mess!

Some themes are more obvious and creative than others. Some are subtle and simple in nature. Whatever the case, a theme is a necessary component to easing the planning process and keeping you organized. At first thought it might seem like a lot of work and may even be overwhelming, the thought of remembering to incorporate a theme into all your wedding decisions, but it doesn’t have to be the case. Here are four easy steps to help you successfully and easily execute a theme:

Decide on a Theme From the Start. As eluded to above, deciding on a theme early on will make the planning process a much smoother one. Like declaring a budget and sticking to, choosing a theme helps you weed through the endless options available to you, sticking to only those that match the overall effect you are going for.

Keep it Personal. Ideally you want a theme to reflect who you are as individuals and as a couple. It could be a reflection of your cultures, your religious beliefs, your favourite pastimes, an homage to how you met, or countless other things. Making a theme personal adds a great deal to the ambience of the day and it’s all that much easier to implement as it’ll come naturally to you.

Incorporate it Everywhere. It’s critical to consistently incorporate your theme or else it just isn’t a theme. From the first communication you send out to your guests, whether that be an engagement announcement, a save the date card, or an invitation, you should set the tone and formality of your event and introduce your theme. From there your theme will likely impact everything from your dress choice, your favours, your food selection and the services you decide on, the type of entertainment you retain, and so on.

If you consider yourself to be a simple, understated person and/or couple, you may be cringing right now at the thought of a theme popping up in every part of your wedding. You may be imaging something colourful and loud and not your style as part of your day. But that doesn’t have to be the case at all. Yes you can get creative and cute with a theme, like a beach wedding theme where you encourage guests to where their flip flops, give out personalized mini beach chairs as the favours, and serve up margaritas as your signature drink. But just as easily simplicity can be your theme. By keeping your colour palette natural, perhaps having an outdoor wedding with simple candles as your centerpieces and a donation as your favour, simple can be your theme.

Stick to it. Do not make last minute changes! And this rule doesn’t just apply to the theme. Many brides, once the wedding day starts approaching closer, start to second guess decisions and consider making changes. Now’s not the time. You picked what you did for a reason, because it was important to you and it felt right. Stick to it and you’ll have an incredible day!

All the Best!

Kasia

Calling all Foodies!

2010-02-25T14:20:00.000-05:00

Get Your Taste Buds Ready!

Wanted to share with you all information about an event one of our Preferred Partners is hosting this May.

Oakville Taste 2010 brings together two of my greatest passions, food and events! And it's for a great cause, raising funds to help Kerr Street Ministries, a non-denominational charity, to continue to provide help and support to Oakville's most vulnerable citizens, particularly children, youth and low income families.

It's also a great chance to check out some local vendors that may be able to assist at your upcoming wedding. Food, drink, chance to meet local vendors, helping out the community, need I say more?!

Here's an event description and a site where you can get more info. Enjoy!

All the Best!

Kasia

This spring, awaken your taste buds at the premiere of Oakville Taste 2010- Oakville’s outdoor culinary event.

Food enthusiasts are invited to an afternoon held at Appleby College, Sunday May 30, 2010, 2pm – 6pm. Set under a picturesque grand marquee, Oakville Taste celebrates all Oakville has to offer hosting an afternoon designed to whet the appetite. 300-400 guests will indulge their taste buds, sampling food from over a dozen local restaurants and caterers. Local vintners, breweries and bakeries will showcase their specialties providing a complete gastronomic experience. Oakville musicians, a silent auction and sponsor displays will add to the flavour of this one-of-a-kind Oakville event.

Net proceeds generated by Oakville Taste 2010 will be donated to Kerr Street Ministries, a non-denominational charity that helps and gives hope to Oakville’s most vulnerable citizens.

Tickets only $75! Visit the website for more details:

www.oakvilletaste2010.com

Prelude to a Kiss Wedding Specialists Hits the Blogging World!

2010-02-15T15:39:00.000-05:00

Welcome Brides and Grooms to Be!

It's been a long time coming...Prelude to a Kiss Wedding Specialists finally hits the Blogging world with our feature blog, Bride in the City.

We're excited to share our thoughts and tips on what's new, what's now, what's happening in the wonderful world of weddings! Join us weekly for insights and tips on everything you need to know about wedding planning.

In addition to our own planning advice we will also be putting up feature posts showcasing some of our top wedding partners and their tricks of the trade.

We're looking forward to sharing our knowledge and passion about all things weddings and hope that you reach out to us to help you create your ultimate wedding experience!

All the Best!

Kasia

Kasia Juras-Azcurra
Owner and Certified Wedding Specialist

Prelude to a Kiss Wedding Specialists

T: 416.834.5918
F: 866.453.9677
E: info@preludetoakiss.ca

www.preludetoakiss.ca
www.preludetoakiss.weddingstar.com