The word is out, Alberta’s own Jillian Harris, star of this seasons The Bachlorette, and Ed Swiderski are engaged! And according to the Calgary Herald, they are opting for a down-home Alberta wedding. Click on the link below to check out the article:

“Alberta wedding a possibility for Bachlorette”.

 Jillian Harris and Ed Swiderski got engaged in Hawaii, on the set of
The Bachelorette. (Photo: ABC)

In Gwyneth Paltrow’s newsletter GOOP. there is a newly featured article on Relationships that shed’s some light on how to make & keep a healthy relationship. “What does it take to sustain a happy and successful relationship or marriage?” Tune in to hear what four very wise women have to say in response to this time old queston!

Click on the above GOOP logo to go directly to the newsletter.

Take the Time…. before you buy, try on as many different styles as possible…gowns look different on your body type versus hanging on a hanger…walk around and sit down…make sure it’s comfortable…shop as soon as possible…gowns are ordered and are not always readily available right away, some made to measure can take six to twelve months.

Trying on wedding dresses can be one of the most daunting experiences a bride faces. You allow yourself to be swept up in a whirlwind of love and romance in the perfect dress that will take his breath away. Feminine chiffon, organza, and satin in whisper light layers, adorned with frills and flowers to put you both in the mood for love.

Establish yourself some boundaries to make this a happy experience. Consider the type of sleeves, neckline, gown length, and train length you want, and the gown style best suited for your body type. Remember to match your accessories to your veil and gown.

 Five Steps to Successful Gown Shopping:

1) Take along someone who knows your style and whose taste is similar to yours.
2) Talk to the shop professionals- they can advise you what is the best style for your figure or what fabrics won’t crease.
3) Remember that it is easier to take a dress in then let it out when you are planning to lose weight.
4) Consider the proper undergarments and shoes for fittings.
5) Take your time…try on lots of different styles until you’re happy with your choice.

Know Your Most Common Bridal Fabrics

Brocade: raised designs on a heavier fabric
Chiffon:   sheer silk or rayon
Lace:       hand or machine done, lace is popular in the bridal market
Organza: sheer but stiffer than chiffon
Satin:      smooth with a high sheen, popular now
Silk:        a natural, strong expensive but elegant fabric
Taffeta:   smooth, crisp fabric
Tulle:      open weave net, most often used in veils and under slips

Part 1: The Engagement Party

This party serves as the official announcement of the engagement. When extending invitations to guests, you may wish to not state purpose of the party (i.e. the engagement), as it is often nice to make the announcement a surprise. For a wonderful selection of invitations for your engagement visit The Paper Tree.

The party can be hosted by either the bride or groom’s family. It is the host’s responsibility to announce the engagement with a toast.

The form of this party can range from a formal sit down dinner to a more casual summer barbecue, or even a cocktail party. Making this a catered dinner will let the bride & groom-to-be have a night to relax before the planning busyness begins. Check out Ovation Catering & Banquets, serving the greater Edmonton region. The formality of this event should be established by both the bride and groom as well as the host, as this party sets the tone fore the rest of the engagement.

When choosing a ring, it is wise to consider what type of wedding band you will wear. Is it part of a matching set? Will you wear it alone? It is important to consider all these factors. Today some brides choose to wear only a wedding band. Most grooms all wear a wedding band. Whatever your choice make sure you’ve done your homework before making this big purchase. It is best to know when purchasing a ring the “Four C’s” Cut, Carat, Colour, and Clarity. In Ring Bling Part 1 Cut and Colour were defined. Here are the following two

Clarity:

• Is the most impressive quality of all.
• The more irregularities there are, the lower the value of the diamond.
• A flawless diamond must show no surface blemishes or interior inclusions when examined at a 10-power magnification.

Carat:

• The weight of a diamond is expressed in carats.
• The weight of a diamond is the most important factor when determining its value - however, a smaller carat diamond with better colour, clarity or cut can easily cost more than a larger carat diamond.

Most importantly, your ring’s cut, setting and stone should all be a reflection of your own tastes, opinions and backgrounds.

Sharpen your sparkler know how before making the big decision!