Fairy Godmother
“Someday, when I’m awfully low, I will feel a glow just thinking of you, and the way you look tonight.”
~”My Best Friend’s Wedding”
Choosing a veil can seem like a very daunting task if you don’t know what you’re looking for. One-tiered or two? How long? Beaded, ribboned, or unembellished? The wearing of the bridal veil dates back to the days of Ancient Rome, and though its style and cultural meaning has changed over time, it continues to create an overall aesthetic that is both feminine and elegant.
Of course, the style of your gown is also important when selecting a veil. Styles are now available that have crystals and pearls worked into the tips, which tie in beautifully with gowns with lots of beaded embellishment. For a lace gown, try to find a simple veil, or one edged in a lace with a similar pattern to your gown. There is no one style of veil that suits all gowns. There are many different styles, and each results in a different effect when paired with your dress.
Elbow-length veils are the most popular in bridal fashion. Their length highlights any embellishment at or around the waist of the gown, and is ideally paired with a gown without a train. This style looks best with full-skirted gowns, especially in princess style, and is mostly used for formal and semi-formal weddings. This veil is a good choice for taller brides. Women who are shorter in stature should avoid this style because it hits right at the waist and does not compliment their height.
A fingertip-length veil is long enough that the end of it rests at the bride’s fingertips when her arms are relaxed at her sides. It is best worn with full-length gowns, and is not recommended for dresses with trains. Like the elbow-length veil, this style is ideal for formal and semi-formal weddings, and is not advisable for the shorter bride.
A chapel or sweep-style veil is more formal, and drapes all the way down to the floor. As it is more voluminous, it is best suited with a mermaid or column-style gown, or something with a cathedral-length train, and can be paired with a blusher. For convenience, brides who favour this style may want to order this veil so that it is detachable and can be removed before the reception.
A cathedral veil is the most formal style. Often called a “royal” veil, it is ideal for a grand church entrance. Approximately 126” in length, it is most suitably paired with a gown that has a cathedral train. This veil extends at least six inches past the train for a very dramatic look. Like the chapel veil, it looks best with a gown that is slimmer fitting, as this particular style can be paired with a blusher and has up to three layers. If you want to pair this style with a fuller skirt, try using only the single layer of tulle to avoid looking like a frosted cupcake. Keep in mind that this style can be difficult to maneuver in, and brides may consider finding a style that is detachable so they can take it off before the reception.
A mantilla veil is an oval-shaped veil, and is either made from lace or lace-edged tulle. This is an alternative option to the more formal and traditional veils, and is best for formal or semi-formal weddings. Mantilla veils usually range in length from elbow- to calf-length, and when paired with a smoother hairstyle, a timeless and elegant look is achieved.
For a more informal, playful look, try a birdcage veil. It’s perfectly suited for creating a more classic look reminiscent of the 1940’s and -50’s. This particular style has been very popular over the last few years, and is characterized by a stiffened layer of loose-weave French net, fastened to a small hat or hairpiece. Ideal for short hairstyles, it fits close to the face, and is usually just long enough to brush the chin. However, different looks can be created depending on where the veil is pinned. For a flirtatious look that covers only the eyes, secure the veil towards the back of the head.
For those brides who really do not want the fuss of a veil, try working sparkling bands and clips worked into your hairstyle. Jeweled and feathered combs can be secured at any angle to compliment an up-do, or be paired with long, loose hair for a sleek and elegant appearance. For the outdoor or destination wedding, fresh flowers create a look that is both natural and romantic.
Make sure to bring a friend with you who can help you examine all of your options. That way, you are sure to find a style that that not only flatters the shape of your face, but also compliments your chosen gown. Have fun trying different styles and veils, and comparing the looks. Every choice you make takes you closer to that moment when you take that long-awaited walk down the aisle and into his arms.
Yarrow Elfshimmer
1) Having a wedding planner will save you time, giving you a chance to be inspired and creative.
2) Wedding planners are always looking for new ideas and researching to find all the new wedding trends. Our knowledge is at your fingertips, let us be creative with you!
3) Wedding planners have contacts in the industry that we deal with on a continuous basis. Not only are we confident in their work but we also get discounts from most vendors as well, making it easy to find exactly what you are looking for while staying in your budget!
4) The stress of a wedding is not exclusive to the couple. Family and friends often take on so much responsibility that they are not fully able to enjoy special moments. Wedding planners take on this responsibility so you and your loved ones can enjoy your big day.
5) Nothing is more beautiful than a relaxed bride!
Abride Within Wedding Planners would be honoured to help plan your wedding. With our passion and your vision we promise your wedding will be THE wedding!
Shannon & Jaime
Abride Within, Wedding Planners
Visit Abride Within’s Website
Thorn Yewtree
Enter to Win!
It all started last July when Reed Palmer, the owner and designer of Soleil Shoe Company , attended a wedding. He saw the bride and bridesmaid had kicked off their heels and were all dancing barefoot at the reception. Dancing barefoot in dresses that cost hundreds of dollars! 
He thought to himself “there has to be a more practical and fashionable solution.” He designed a ballet flat that can roll or fold to fit into your clutch or purse for those all too common occasions when your feet have just had enough of those painful heels. Each pair of shoes comes in a designer gift box with a tote for your heels - how perfect is that! Comfortable, fashionable flats for you and your bridesmaids. These awesome flats make great bridal gifts!
Bridal Fantasy Sweepstakes has teamed up with Soleil Shoe Company to offer 3 prize packages to our lucky brides-to-be. Package one is a set of four (4) Soleil Shoes - one for the bride and up to three bridesmaids. Each of the girls will receive their very own pair. Two more brides-to-be will each receive their own pair of these fashionable flats. Head over to the sweepstakes page at BridalFantasy.com to enter now for your chance to win!
Yarrow Elfshimmer
We’ve all been there, sitting at a beautiful wedding ceremony when the music stops and there is “dead air”. The CD or MP3 recording has stopped and the bridesmaid is not quite down the aisle. Instantly, the romantic atmosphere of the entire ceremony is in jeopardy. Live musicians ensure that this won’t happen to you. Your music will be seamless, uninterrupted and totally unique to you on your dream day. Live musicians can also enhance your cocktail hour by entertaining your guests with some of your favourite tunes.
Think about the ways that you can personalize your wedding with live music. You can choose music unique to your style and have it played in a manner that suits the atmosphere of your wedding day. Musical selections can be tailored in length and tempo for the various components of your wedding. There will be no awkward silences or stunted endings. You can choose the instrument or ensemble that best reflects your personality. A hot trend for weddings this summer will be elegant piano music that will up the romantic ambience of your day.
Wishing you a wedding with unforgettable music and moments,
Laurie & Barb, Occasional Notes, www.occasionalnotes.net
Columbine Rainbowwand
What a wonderful time! Both Calgary and Edmonton Bridal Fantasy were huge successes - thanks to everyone who came out to the show :)
Melanie Sinneave, our Calgary Fantasy Wedding Package grand prize winner (groom-to-be is Steve McDonald) is shown here with her mom (right) and Gay Derk (left), the owner and producer of Bridal Fantasy. Her prizes include a 7-day honeymoon trip to Barbados courtesy of AMA Travel, a $2500 wedding gown from Bells & Bows Bridal Centre, a $5000 wedding planning package from Tying the Knot and so much more! Congrats to Melanie and Steve.
Our Edmonton Fantasy Wedding Package grand prize winners are Lindsay Friedley and Mario Audette. Lindsay is standing with Gay Derk, owner and producer of Bridal Fantasy. Lindsay and Steve also won a 7-day honeymoon trip to Barbados, courtesy of Farlie Travel, along with an Ultimate Wedding Package from HBC National Gift Registry, a ‘Rock Your Reception’ package from PremiereDJS.ca and tons more! Lindsay and Mario, congratulations and happy planning.
We would also like to say congratulations to all of the door prizes winners for both shows. Head over to www.bridalfantasy.com and look under ‘Bridal Shows’ to see all of the winners’ names.
We also did the draw for the Volvo c30 at Bridal Fantasy Edmonton on the 24th. Mark Reynolds of Edmonton was the lucky winner! Mark is here with his fiance Terri-Lynne (right) and Pauline Haviland from Volvo of Edmonton.
Fairy Godmother
Bridal Fantasy is the leading one-day bridal show in Western Canada. With shows in Edmonton and Calgary , brides are sure to find everything they need for planning their special day. With an amazing professionally choreographed bridal fashion show, and an eclectic mix of exhibitors, brides and grooms can have all their wedding day questions answered.
Plus you can win Fantastic Prizes - Like a Volvo c30 courtesy of Volvo of Edmonton, and so much more! Enter Our Sweepstakes Draw Here.
You can win this Volvo c30 outright - this is NOT a lease - $33,000 Value
Features like destination wear, flowers , and formalwear for the groom will make this an amazing wedding event no bride will want to miss. With everything from supplies to wedding venues, photographers to cake artists , there’s something for every bride at Bridal Fantasy!
Bridal Fantasy is an amazing way to find out all the unique and accommodating options available for brides. We invite you to shop around and enjoy all the free samples and luxuries provided at our bridal show. Don’t miss out on the coupons, specials and prizes that will help you cover your costs and stick to your budget. See you soon!
Calgary Bridal Fantasy - January 17, 2010 at the TELUS Convention Centre
$100 000 In Prizes and Gifts
Morning show: Doors open at 10:30 am, fashion show at 12:30 pm
Afternoon show: Doors open at 1:30 pm, fashion show at 3:00 pm
Buy Tickets Now
View our Calgary Exhibitors List Here
FEATURED CALGARY PRIZES:
Come to the Show and You Could Win Fabulous Prizes including the Fantasy Wedding Package which includes a 7-day honeymoon trip to Barbados! (courtesy of AMA Travel, Almond Beach Resort, WestJet and the Barbados Tourism Authority)
Other prizes include:
- A Seven Day All Inclusive Honeymoon Trip to Jamaica’s Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort & Spa, Courtesy of the Jamaica Tourist Board and Sunset Resorts Jamaica
- A $5000 Wedding Planning Package from Tying The Knot
- A JenniferScott Custom Bridal Gown
- $2500 Wedding Gown Courtesy of Bells & Bows Bridal Centre
- A Two Hour Engagement Session with Hair, Makeup & Styling from Deans Pictures Weddings
- A Two Night Bed & Breakfast package at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Edmonton Bridal Fantasy - January 24, 2010Â at Northlands
$150 000 in Prizes & Gifts
Morning show: Doors open at 9:30 am, fashion show at 11:30 am
Afternoon show: Doors open at 1:30 pm, fashion show at 3:00 pm
Buy Tickets Now
View our Edmonton Exhibitor List Here
FEATURED EDMONTON PRIZES:
Come down to the show and you could win tons of great prizes, like the Fantasy Wedding package, which includes a romantic honeymoon trip to Barbados! (courtesy of Farlie Travel and the Barbados Tourism Authority)
- A Pampering Session (manicure, pedicure, haircut, massage and wax) from In Motion Style Group
- A JenniferScott Custom Bridal Gown
- A $500 Gift Certificate from Kuhlmann’s Floral Boutique
- A Bridesmaid Package from Wedding World Bridal
Bridal Fantasy 2010 Magazine Now out - Free issue for every bride at the show*
Tickets for both shows are only $20 each (this includes GST) and all brides receive a FREE copy of the newest issue of Bridal Fantasy Magazine ($6.95 value) and the Bridal Fantasy Wedding Planner & Survival Guide ($14.95 value) while supplies last. Don’t miss out on the coupons, specials and prizes that will help you cover your costs and stick to your budget. See you soon!
*While supplies last.
Fairy Godmother
On gowns… top three:
The fabulous, elegant ball gown is making a comeback for this next bridal season.
On the other side, we are still seeing the body-hugging silhouette, great for a girl with a fab figure.
Fifties-style glamour is back in with its full-out Hollywood style and glamour. Big bows, belted waistlines and the absolutely stunning couture you see in “Mad Men”.
Feather Elfwand
One trendy post processing technique is called Texturing. The key to texturing is picking the right type of textures, and the right combination to give the photo a special feel.
Boe Lefebvre, of Pokedog Photography, utilizes a variety of techniques. For example, he says:
"I might overlay an image of a scuffed up cement wall to give the image depth, and then add a vivid image of green grass for color, and finally a blurred image of bright street lights to vary the tone and exposure. There can be millions of combinations and unlimited layers created to craft a work of fine art that a wedding couple could have printed on canvas to hang on their wall as a conversation piece, without feeling the need to pull it down after the one year anniversary."
www.pokedog.com
Feather Elfwand
The days of hiring a wedding photographer strictly for formal portraits are fading fast. Wedding photography has transformed, and is continuing to transform dramatically. Photographers are taking more creative approaches to their work, as well as becoming more competitive in what they have to offer. Clients are also demanding more and more.
With this explosion in the industry, there’s been a move toward photography that combines traditional photography with fine art. Digital photography has given the photographer new artistic mediums in which to play. Computer software allows photographers to take a real world image and make into something fantastic and surreal.
There are now two distinct skills that are emerging amongst wedding photographers. The first is the ability to shoot a great image, the second is the competence and creativity to work with and edit an image.
Some photographers specialize in the digital enhancements or alterations, and others could not imagine changing the original image. It is important when you are looking for your photographer to find out how much time, if any, they spend on post-processing, even if it is just to remove an unexpected blemish or two. This usually time consuming service should be included in the price, but make sure you check, and that you know what you are getting.
Most importantly, make sure you can communicate with your photographer to make sure you get the style of photography that you want.
Above is a photograph by Boe Lefebvre, of Pokedog Photography, before digital editing. Our next post will reveal the impact that post-processing can have.
Feather Elfwand
If you’re looking for bridesmaid dresses, you can’t afford to skip Wedding World. With the variety of colours, fabrics, and price points, you’ll be sure to find something that catches your eye. They carry children’s, plus size, and maternity gowns, so everyone on your party is covered.
I love these sky blue dresses with the gathered detail and simple belting. The simple, elegant cut is fun, formal, and can be worn again.
Wedding World also has a tonne of bridal gowns. Some of the brands available are After Six, Alfred Angelo, Jolene, Madison Collection, Alfred Sung, Dessy, and Pronovias.
Visit Wedding World’s Website
Visit the Edmonton Location:
5361 Gateway Boulevard Northwest
Edmonton, AB T6H 4P8
(780) 433-1622
