Weddings By Louise

Tracy & Ken ~ Hollywood Glamour

2010-07-19T13:45:00.001-05:00

Tracy contacted me just one month before her May 15th wedding as she wanted us to handle her wedding day coordination so she and her husband-to-be Ken could enjoy a stress-free wedding day. I’m so glad she did! Tracy planned a fantastic day with beautiful decor, excellent food, and their family and guests had a great time.

It was a beautiful sunny and warm day in Beausejour and Lockport for their pictures, wedding, and reception. Manuel Sousa was Tracy and Ken’s photographer and they raved about how easy and fun he made their photo sessions for everyone, including the children. All of their wedding photographs turned out beautifully and Tracy made a very stunning bride to say the least!

Both their ceremony and reception were held at Rembrandt’s Conference Centre in Lockport, Manitoba. The room was beautifully decorated with linens by Planned Perfectly and flowers from Flowers R Us. The dinner menu was amazing (provided by Rembrandt’s of course) and all of the guests loved the food!

The sexy and glamorous Hollywood atmosphere with its red and black theme included tables named for legendary movie stars like Ava Gardner, Marilyn Munroe, and Frank Sinatra, a candy buffet and a very dramatic wedding cake from Dessert Sinsations.

Congratulations Tracy and Ken (and your new blended family!).
May you have a long, loving life together!

Sweet Treats

2010-05-28T16:15:00.001-05:00

As many of you know, I'm a huge fan of Cake-ology - the newest bakery in Winnipeg's Exchange District (on Arthur Street). Friends, colleagues and I have all tried Pam's creations and we love every morsel! Here is just a sampling of what Cake-ology can do:

A cake I specially ordered for our office launch party - lemon cake with raspberry buttercream and fondant. I love the flower and the details along the bottom. The cake was so moist and the frosting was delish!

Cake-ology cakettes - everyone's favourite! These decadent little cake balls pack a big punch and they are so great with a hot coffee from the nearby Fyxx or with an ice cold glass of milk. Vanilla and chocolate are pictured above but they're also available in red velvet, which I haven't tried but it's on my wish list!

Last, but certainly NOT least, my personal favourite - raspberry imperial cookies! They're larger than they look in this picture and SO good. The chocolate and ganache ones are amazing too!

These are just a small sampling of what's available at Cake-ology http://www.cake-ology.ca/. Take a trip during your lunch break or in the middle of running errands on a Saturday and stop in to see what delights Pam has available in her showcase. The cupcake flavours are always changing and her special order cakes are fantastic.

I think I'll head there for a Snickerdoodle and a lemon cupcake right now!

Welcome!

2010-05-28T15:57:00.006-05:00

Welcome to Weddings by Louise's new office - officially unveiled this week. As well as being centrally located in downtown Winnipeg, the character, history and creative energy in Pantages Playhouse has been an inspiration! After all, the drama, excitement and emotion of weddings have a lot in common with live theatre. Pantages also has special significance for me personally - my own wedding was held here seven years ago.

However, when I was planning the move, there were several reasons I thought it would benefit our clients:

• You aren’t driving all over Winnipeg to see vendors and meet with us at Weddings by Louise. We’re in close proximity to many other wedding vendors such as My Secret Garden florist and Cake-ology bakery, and venues like the Fairmont Hotel and the Millennium Centre.

• We’re convenient to get to. We’re located on Main Street - not far from the corner of Portage/Main and en route from most areas of Winnipeg. If you work downtown, we’re just a walk away or you can take advantage of the free Downtown Spirit #3 bus. Several city transit routes stop across the street at either City Hall or the Centennial Concert Hall.

• We are accessible. There is parking for drivers with disability permits on the street and Pantages Playhouse is equipped with an elevator to our second floor office area.

• You have wedding planning resources to reference in our office, including some of the top wedding books by authors such as David Tutera, Sasha Souza, and Mindy Weiss. We also have the latest issues of Martha Stewart Weddings, Wedding Bells, among others.

• You have the opportunity to visualize your wedding colours and centerpieces when you can see a mock up of your table set up in our office decor space.

• You will have privacy during our meetings and can openly discuss your wedding day details without strangers overhearing your plans or personal details.

If you would like to discuss your wedding details or arrange an initial meeting while you consider our services as your wedding coordinator or decorator, you can call us at 837-3958 or email weddingsbylouise@mts.net. We look forward to seeing you at our new location!

Wedding Feng Shui

2010-05-25T13:12:00.002-05:00

You may have heard of the principles of feng shui being used in the design and decor of your living spaces but did you know it can be applied to your wedding as well? Your choice of colours, room layout and symbolism may influence your celebrations and life together. The fundamentals of feng shui have been practiced for thousands of years in the East and have gained popularity here. Whether you are open to the concept or doubt its philosophies, it is something to consider when planning your wedding

Your Venue

Choose your wedding sites based on who you are. Do you feel more comfortable in a romm with dark wood, historical architecture and heavy fabrics? Is a hall with high ceilings and large windows with a view of the outdoors more your style? Your comfort in these areas can have an affect on you on your wedding day.

Your Room Set Up
The southwest area of the room is the marriage/relationship sector and should be where the two of you sit, if possible, or where your gifts are kept during the reception.
Seating and table shapes influence the flow and atmosphere. Long tables with guests seated on either side can create a confrontational effect, especially if the guests are not on good terms already. Round tables allow a smoother flow in your room and your guests will feel more at ease with their tablemates.
Dark corners of the room should be filled with lighting or plants to eliminate the dark energy hiding in the shadows.
A backdrop will hide and soften any sharp angles or distractions behind your head table.

Your Colours
Feng shui suggests off white as the ideal colour for a wedding dress. It's a soft, relaxing colour and will help calm the anxious energy you feel on your wedding day.
What colours do you feel create a specific mood or atmosphere for you? If you want a fun, festive party then brighter colours can enliven the decor. For a more elegant and formal event, softer colours can project a more relaxed mood.
Testures can make a large difference too. Soft fabrics, shiny satins, and billowy sheers will add a more feminine ambience to your space. Metal, wood and stones can incorporate a more masculine feel. A combination of a few of both will create a balanced yin/yang energy - perfect for the beginning of a partnership in marriage!

Your Cake

If you want a grounded, stable relationship for the two of you, a low square wedding cake can symbolize that for you. A tall multi-tired round cake represents an adventurous marriage with rising energy for you to grow together.

photo courtesy of www.bakingshop.com

You may want to include one or more of the suggestions above. It's a fun way to personalize and balance out your wedding celebrations, from location and decor to your cake and colours. And there's also some great news...we recently spoke with Nicole Normandeau of Orange Poppy Feng Shui http://www.orangepoppy.ca/ here in Winnipeg. According to Nicole, February 2010 to February 2011 is a very lucky year for romance, creativity and travel - perfect for weddings, honeymoons, and especially destination weddings!

Trust Your Wedding to a Professional

2010-05-05T15:54:00.000-05:00

You're considering hiring a wedding planner for hourly consultations, full planning services, or simply wedding day coordination and now you're getting quotes from various companies. The industry standard for professional planners starts at $600 for day of coordination and includes the services of a lead coordinator and an assistant. The average full planning package starts at $1500 and should include the services of wedding day coordinators as well.

There are planners out there who charge $200 a wedding day. I'm a firm believer that you get what you pay for so I'd be very wary of what services you'll receive for that price. At about $10/hour you need to ask yourself, and them:

What wedding experience do they have - what sizes of weddings, venues, cultures?
How many staff does that include and what experience do they have?
How did they handle problems and emergencies that arose?
What training and education do they have? Is it by a government and/or industry-approved program?

Wedding coordinators who have successfully completed the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada course are trained in all areas of wedding planning and coordination, how to run a wedding business, and how best to serve our brides, grooms and their families. WPIC expects all graduates to adhere to a code of ethics, continue to build on their education through attendance at annual conferences and training, and to network within their large international community of alumni. They are also the only wedding certification program recognized by the Government of Canada.

Another association for accredited wedding planners is the Association of Bridal Consultants. In addition to an application process that requires proof of education and experience from consultants, they also have a professional code of ethics for all members. They have an education program for novices and professional development for more seasoned planners, and hold their Business of Brides conference each November for members.

Wedding professionals who belong to these organizations, as well as others such as ISES (International Special Events Society), have proven their commitment to providing the best possible service to you for your wedding and take their business and reputation very seriously.

WPIC and ABC wedding coordinators and planners do include those just starting out as well as wedding veterans. The fees they charge will range depending on their experience, location and the services best suited for your personal needs. Think about it - if it came to something important like getting your taxes done, would you rather have a certified accountant doing them or the woman next door who will do it for a quarter of the price? On such a special occasion as your wedding, you deserve the best service available from a wedding professional.

Show Your Team (and Wedding!) Spirit

2010-04-26T21:45:00.001-05:00

In the midst of Stanley Cup Fever, it's clear just who is a die hard Canadiens fan and who lives and breathes for the Ottawa Senators or Vancouver Canucks. Some of you may be hockey widows until the Stanley Cup is won or maybe you're cheering alongside (or even against!) your groom-to-be's team.

Incorporating your love for the game into some of your wedding festivities can be a fun way to personalize your day and add a sense of humour. One of my grooms-to-be is a Canadiens fan and every family member, friend and coworker knows just how passionate he is about his Montreal team. His wife is a fan too and really supports his love of the game. As we're planning their vow renewal for next June we've already thrown around the idea of Canadiens colours for their wedding - understated and elegant in white and either royal blue or red, except for a few fun little things thrown in.

Here's a fancy little garter you can wear as a surprise and a shout-out to your new husband's favourite team

http://www.letsdancegarters.com/

Or if you're a Toronto fan, Magic Mud created this topper for a client. You can also personalize it to any team or sport you choose...

http://www.magicmud.com/

So, whether you and/or your bethrothed are hockey nuts, follow baseball or the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, why not consider showing your team pride a time or two during your wedding day. A sports announcer-type intro into your reception, with the old Hockey Night in Canada theme, is another fun way to make your entrance and pay homage to Canada's favourite pasttime!

Everything 'Old' is New Again?

2010-04-18T16:00:00.000-05:00

April 27th, 1965

Forty-five years ago these were the wedding style trends - birdcage veils, turquoise bridesmaid gowns, a lace-inspired wedding gown, and a classic bouquet of roses.

Sounds familiar?

All of these styles are back ~ with a modern twist of course!

I think I'd be hard pressed to find a gown with this much french lace and crinolines (with a hoop too!) for the $99 my mother paid for her dress back then.

Their granddaughters may be making their own wedding choices this year and selecting colours and accessories very similar to the ones their grandmothers wore 'way back when'.

Cinderella & Her Prince

2010-03-23T14:18:00.003-05:00

It was a beautiful day for a fairytale wedding as Cynthia and Manfred exchanged vows while surrounded by family and friends at St. Chad's Anglican Church. Whyte Ridge Academy Florist did an amazing job with all of the floral arrangements, which adorned each pew during the ceremony and became centerpieces at their Paris-inspired reception at the Marlborough Hotel.

On the day of their wedding, Cynthia said that Manfred had always made her feel like a princess - from their very first date and throughout their courtship, but especially on their wedding day.

The groom had a very special surprise planned for his bride and asked our help to arrange it. It was agony keeping such a beautiful and touching secret! While having their photographs done at the Manitoba Legislative Building, a horsedrawn white carriage led by two majestic black horses arrived to whisk them away on a romantic ride before their reception.

We all felt like we were watching a romantic fairytale come to life that day.
Congratulations Cynthia and Manfred!

Photos courtesy of Frank Yong Photography

Planning Your Wedding Seminars

2010-03-10T16:46:00.000-06:00

All of the websites, magazines and books out there can leave you a very bewildered bride when planning your wedding. These seminars, led by Louise McAllister of Weddings by Louise (http://www.weddingsbylouise.ca/) will help you to plan and organize your wedding - from budgeting and choosing a venue to finding a photographer and managing your guest list. Money saving tips as well as wedding traditions and etiquette will also be discussed.

"Planning Your Wedding"
Tuesdays - May 4th and 11th, 2010
7pm-9pm
R.W. Bobby Bend School
Stonewall, Manitoba
http://www.isd21.mb.ca/coned/

"Wedding Planner"
Wednesdays - May 5th and 12th, 2010
7pm-9pm
Lord Selkirk Regional Comp Secondary School
Selkirk, Manitoba
http://www.selkirkconed.com/Courses.cfm?cID=11954&prevCat=Do%20It%20Yourself%20%26%20Hobbies

Cards by Cristina

2010-03-10T16:18:00.002-06:00

During the planning of her own wedding, Winnipeg invitation designer Cristina San was frustrated by the lack of personalized wedding products available to local couples. Cards by Cristina was created so that other brides and grooms would have the opportunity to create custom stationery specially made for their own special day.

Cristina creates handmade invitations and inserts, thank you cards, and programmes that are customized especially for you. They reflect the two of you and your event and, best of all, they can be made in any combination of colours, paper textures and styles - all complimenting your wedding colours.

As her wedding coordinator, I was very impressed by Cristina's creativity, hard work and attention to detail with every element of her own day. I know she will bring that same dedication and imagination to make your wedding stationery something you will be confident sharing with all of your guests.

For more information and a look at Cards by Cristina's portfolio, check out the website at http://www.cardsbycristina.com/

Photos courtesy UPLift'd Photography

Fragrant Favours

2010-02-01T10:28:00.000-06:00

Fragrant ~ Frugal ~ Fabulous!

If you're looking for a reasonably priced favour for your wedding or shower, dried lavender is a beautifully fragrant way to add a scented accent to your celebrations!

Recently, I made these small sachets as giveaways at my wedding show booth and everyone loved them. The delicate scent of dried french lavender is very relaxing and has a variety of practical uses as well...

Popular toss at weddings ~ most ceremony venues don't allow confetti, bird seed or rice to be thrown but dried lavender is often permitted.
Freshens your linens and lingerie ~ a sachet of lavender between linens in your cupboard or in your lingerie drawer adds a natural fresh scent to your items.
Aids in relaxation ~ as a sachet in your bath or tucked into your pillow case, lavender gently helps you relax and enjoy a calmer night's sleep or relieve some of the stress after a busy day of wedding planning.

Materials:
3" x 4" organza bags (with drawstring)
2-3 heaping teaspoons of dried lavender per bag
business card template for tags

The quantity you'll need will be based on the number of guests or sachets you'll be making. The organza bags are available in a variety of colours at your local party or dollar store, for about $2.00/10 bags (or less). I ordered the lavender from a supplier I found on eBay and you can order the bags online as well. The business cards? Free! All I paid was $7.00 shipping through http://www.vistaprint.ca/ and received 250 cards for free. (You can also coordinate them with other items for your wedding from this site, such as banners and invitations.) In total, it cost approximately $150.00 for 500 sachets. Although it did take a fair amount of time putting everything together, the task will fly by with a few people doing it together and you'll have a beautifully fragrant favour to share with all of your guests.

Thank You!

2010-01-18T12:03:00.001-06:00

Thank you so much to everyone who helped with our booth at the wedding show - from the banner (Paul, you rock!) and my graphic designer Jan at J&J Designs to my assistants Laurie and Tess. Last, and certainly never least, my husband and not-so-silent partner ;-) Andrew who brought love into my life and helps me help couples celebrate theirs!

Thank you!

~Louise

Wonderful Wedding Show

2010-01-06T09:34:00.013-06:00

Wonderful Wedding Show 2010

Winnipeg Convention Centre

January 16 & 17 11am-6pm

Whether this is your first visit to the wedding show or your first as the bride, here are some tips to help you get the most from the day...

Have fun! This is a great day out for you and your bridal party so have some fun with it. Go for brunch, don your 'Bride to Be' and "Mother of the Bride' tees, and celebrate!

Be prepared for what to expect. The wedding show is very large, can be very overwhelming, and can get very crowded. A show guide is included in the Winnipeg Free Press January 13th and it's a fantastic tool to help you preplan where you want to go and who you'd like to see. Hint: If you're not interested in seeing the fashion show, around 1pm and 4pm are great times to visit the booths and talk to wedding planners, photographers, and venues. It's less crowded and it's easier to talk with the exhibitors.

Be prepared to buy. Whether it's a wedding dress or a wedding day coordinator you're interested in, you may want to go into the show intent on signing a contract right then and there. Many of the dress shops have fabulous sales during the show and other wedding professionals calendars fill up very quickly during the weekend.

Bring tools to help you.

Address stickers. The #1 advice I'd give is bring address stickers with a minimum of your name, email address and phone number for the exhibitor draws and to get on mailing lists.
Comfortable shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing on a very hard floor so make sure you're comfortable. Stiletto boots look great but aren't practical on a day like today.
Convenient bag. There are brochures, postcards, business cards, samples, catalogues, and merchandise for sale. Bring along a bag you're comfortable carrying - whether it's a messenger bag, backpack or large purse.
Yoga pants and tank top. If you're in the market for a wedding gown on sale and will likely be trying some on at the show, wearing yoga pants or leggings and a tight top will make it easier to change in and out of the dresses and without risking your privacy either.

Not just a girls day anymore! More and more, I see couples attending together. These days, the groom is just as involved as the bride and wants to see the products and services available too. This is also an opportunity for the two of you to see one-on-one if you "click" personally with the photographers, planners and venues you may be involved with for your wedding.

Remember that your time at the wedding show is about enjoying it - seeing what's out there, sharing in the excitement of all the engaged couples, and planning your own wedding. Have fun! While you're there, drop by our booth at 833/835 - I'd love to meet you!

~Louise

Weddings in Winnipeg features

2010-01-06T09:05:00.005-06:00

The new January issue of Weddings in Winnipeg magazine includes two new articles I've written for the local publication.

I receive a lot of calls and questions from women interested in becoming a wedding planner - wanting to know what education and skills it requires and what the job is like. "The Life of a Wedding Planner" is a glimpse into what led me to become a wedding planner and why I love working with brides and grooms.

Whether you're heading to Boston, Banff or the Bahamas for your wedding and/or honeymoon there are things you can do to make your trip much more enjoyable. "Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Hints" is just an example of some of the recommendations and advice I offer clients as a destination wedding coordinator.

If you'd like to start receiving your own free Weddings in Winnipeg magazine:
http://http://www.weddingsinwinnipeg.ca/getmagazine.php

Weddings - by Louise

2009-12-09T12:05:00.004-06:00

Louise McAllister, lead wedding coordinator and owner of Weddings by Louise, is happy to announce that she's now a registered Marriage Commissioner in Manitoba and able to perform wedding ceremonies in the province, including solemnizing marriages for same-sex couples.

Beautiful Bride Featured in Weddings in Winnipeg

2009-11-24T16:01:00.003-06:00

Congratulations to Cristina and Sambath for being featured in the November issue of Weddings in Winnipeg magazine! Cristina's heart, hard work and attention to detail really made her wedding day spectacular and one we'll always remember. Melanie and I had a great time working on the wedding with them and I'm even more excited that Cristina's started her own business - Cards by Cristina!

http://http//www.weddingsinwinnipeg.ca/articles.php?subcategoryId=43&articleId=107

Wonderful Website for Weddings & Daywear (Size 12+)

2009-11-23T13:34:00.004-06:00

Igigi is fabulous for beautiful wedding dresses, separates, and wedding party gowns for all of the "real" women out there! The colours and styles are flattering and the prices are great. While I haven't ordered anything yet, there are some pieces that are just calling my name...

http://www.igigi.com/

I've just discovered that IGIGI dresses are available right here in Winnipeg - at "Sue's Clothing" at 580 Academy Road!

Exciting News for 2010

2009-10-30T11:20:00.004-05:00

Stay tuned for some exciting news for Weddings by Louise in 2010!

Over the next two months we'll be announcing some great new services we'll be offering our clients as well as some projects we're working on for the new year, including a fresh new look!

Professional Wedding Planners Conference 2009

2009-10-30T11:13:00.009-05:00

The Professional Wedding Planners Conference is being held Nov 14-17th on the breathtaking Beaches resort in Turks & Caicos - all about destination weddings!

Weddings by Louise will be closed November 10th-18th while we attend the conference, update my Sandals specialist certification, and learn more about the Martha Stewart/Sandals collaboration, products and services. During our absence, you can reach me via email at weddingsbylouise@mts.net.

27 Dresses...or maybe more?

2009-09-10T12:43:00.006-05:00

How many unused dresses, gowns and bridesmaid outfits do you have hiding in your closet?

I'm sure we all have at least one that we'll never wear again.

Winnipeg's "Fairy Grad Mother" is a wonderful organization that collects gently used dresses and accessories that they provide to students who couldn't otherwise a fabulous outfit to wear to celebrate their high school grad. The reality is that some students just don't go - just because they have nothing to wear.

Even if you think no one would want to wear that white satin '80s dress or the theme gown from your cousin's wedding, these dresses can be repurposed - altered, dyed, and made into something wonderful that any teenage girl would be proud to wear on such an important night as her high school prom!

Dresses can be dropped off at:
The Buttercup Beauty Bar
402 Academy Rd
Monday - Saturday between 10am and 6pm

Thanks so much
~Louise

Looking Ahead...

2009-08-11T11:18:00.006-05:00

We've had some great weddings with our fabulous couples and been meeting with current and new clients this summer, we also have several exciting projects in the works and events ahead...

SuperClubs training in Toronto
This month I'm heading to the GTA for some business meetings and learning about the SuperClubs group of resorts that includes the super-inclusive Breezes and Hedonism getaways in the Caribbean and Central America. As a certified Destination Wedding Coordinator it's my responsibility to discover more about the locations and resorts where you'd like to get married or honeymoon.

Wedding MBA in Las Vegas
My stay in the wedding capital of the world includes 3 very busy days of business seminars, information sessions, and networking with wedding professionals from across North America (and beyond). All of the speakers are leaders in the industry - such as Andy Ebon from the Wedding Marketing Network, Alan Berg from "The Knot", and Darcy Miller from Martha Stewart Weddings. The remainder of my week includes several site visits at various hotels and attractions in the area.

Professional Wedding Planners Conference in Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
The 5th annual conference's focus is on destination weddings. What better place to have it than the Beaches Resort in the gorgeous TCI? As well as an opportunity to renew my certification as a Sandals specialist, there are invaluable industry seminars and workshops - including learning more about the new partnership between Sandals and Martha Stewart Weddings!

Wonderful Wedding Show in Winnipeg, Manitoba
Weddings by Louise is back! This year's show will feature a double booth - and plans are already underway for the decor and a few surprises. Check us out January 16 and 17, 2010 at booths 833/835!

We're Expanding to Serve You Better
Weddings by Louise will also be offering chair covers, table linens and more starting this January - just in time for the Wonderful Wedding Show and the 2010/11 wedding season. We will have items on display in our booth and on our website this winter.

Well, that about covers it for now. We still have a few weddings before the snow arrives and we'll update the gallery on our website this fall.

Have a great summer (now that it's finally here)!

Louise

My Emergency Kit

2009-08-11T11:04:00.006-05:00

Every WPIC-certified wedding coordinator carries an "emergency kit" for all of those unexpected surprises on your wedding day. As well as my large one (with more than 100 items), I also have a belt for frequently used items, a first aid kit, and a group of totes that include a tool box, a decor emergency box, a children's activity box, and others.

Emergency Kit & Contents

Five Fabulous Finds!

2009-08-10T13:08:00.004-05:00

Always on the look out for the little things that make life much easier. Here are some of my recent finds - and we've used them all!

SoleMates
http://www.thesolemates.com/

I received a set of these in my swag bag at the Professional Wedding Planners Conference last winter and passed them along to recent bride Deanna for her outdoor wedding and photographs in June. They worked great - protecting her wedding shoes from all of the potential mud and grass stains and stopping her heels from sinking into the soft soil.

The Butler Bag
http://www.butlerbag.com/

No, it isn't Gucci or Chanel but I love my Butler Bag just the same. Some girls love shoes but I'm a purse-a-holic...until a year ago when I got my first Butler Bag. It's the "hybrid" and fits everything I could possibly need each day. There are separate compartments that accommodate my Blackberry, a stack of business cards, cosmetic bag, camera, wallet, coin purse, Altoids, etc. I can unzip and immediate grab whatever I need. It's invaluable when traveling. A passport, snack, book and magazines, are incredibly easy to find at a moment's notice.

Blackberry Storm

No matter where I am I have access to emails, text messaging, web browser, camera and videos, and a keyboard that's easy to use. Yes, Blackberry has many models to choose from but the Storm is my favorite by far!

The Everything Wedding Vows Book (3rd ed.)
by Don Lipper & Elizabeth Sagehorn

I recently picked up this little book for $10.99 at Indigo. With 200 pages of helpful hints, love quotes, bible verses, movie quotes, and a variety of wedding ceremony traditions, it's a lot of fabulous information in a great little package. It also covers vow renewals, gay and lesbian weddings, stepfamily weddings, in addition to the classics.

VistaPrint
http://www.vistaprint.ca

VistaPrint is a great website for so many printed products and they've expanded their product lines. Their invitations are perfect for showers, weddings and thank you cards. Lawn signs and banners work well for directing your guests to outdoor weddings or venues. Save the Date cards and magnets are just a few clicks away. They also offer websites starting at $6.99/month.

Let me know if you've found some great products, websites, or resources you'd like to share with other brides or business people. We're always looking for the next fabulous find!

Deanna & Steve

2009-06-25T14:04:00.000-05:00

Deanna Dixon & Steve Fitzpatrick were married in Neepawa, Manitoba on June 6, 2009. After several months of planning via phone calls, meetings, and emails between Rankin Inlet and Winnipeg, the weekend was arranged.

The short yet sweet ceremony took place outdoors at the Wilson farm and Steve never did get Deanna to agree to "obey" him in her vows, but it was obvious how much they belong together and had been anxiously awaiting their day.

A lively reception followed at Evans Banquet Hall. D & D Catering provided a delicious dinner service and dazzling dessert display. Sabine Chorley and Lenea from Sterling Images Photography captured Deanna & Steve's special moments. Specialty linens were supplied by Planned Perfectly. Thank you to Larry & Don at Evans Banquet Hall for all of their help during set up and the wedding reception. A very special thank you to Deanna & Steve's family and friends for helping us create a wedding and reception I hope they'll always remember.

Personally, I'd like to thank my assistant, Andrea Block, and I know that Andrea will join me in thanking George & Susan Phillips from The Garden Path B&B in Neepawa for providing a home away from home for us that weekend.

Congratulations Deanna & Steve!

It's Never Too Late

2009-05-19T23:00:00.000-05:00

Overwhelmed by all of the details for your wedding day?
Worried about what will happen or when everything will take place?
Frustrated by everything still needing to be done for your big day?

It’s never too late to hire a Wedding Day Coordinator.

As an experienced wedding planner, I can honestly say that one simple call or email to a professional wedding coordinator will set your mind at ease. Within 24 hours (or less) we can be helping to confirm all of your vendors and suppliers for you and assist you in putting together your wedding day details, from your itinerary to organizing who does what, when and where.

A lot of people think that hiring a coordinator is an unnecessary expense and our services are beyond your financial reach. It really is affordable, with an initial payment to secure our service for the day and the balance not due until the day before your wedding. Here are just some of the services offered in a typical “Day Of” package:

· Assisting with your wedding rehearsal – guiding you and your wedding party through the steps of your ceremony until everyone is comfortable and confident in their roles for your day and handling any last minute questions or concerns.

· Overseeing your wedding ceremony- ensuring your decor and accessories are in place, assisting guests to their seats, and helping your bridal party prepare for their walk down the aisle. We also take care of you from the time you arrive until your departure for photographs and the reception to follow.

· Coordinating your reception – making sure that your decor is set up, ensuring your needs are taken care of while greeting your guests, assistance in seating them, and taking care of your itinerary so that you can relax and enjoy your celebration and your guests while letting you know when it’s time for moments like your first dance, cake cutting, and bouquet toss.

You can enjoy a stress-free wedding day when you hire a professional to look after all your details and any emergencies or concerns that arise – for a fee of approximately $600.00.

A professional wedding planner is there for the two of you, as well as your families, your friends, and your bridal party. Memories are made of this...and you deserve fabulous moments you’ll always remember.

Ultimate Women's Show

2009-04-15T16:16:00.000-05:00

Visit our Weddings by Louise booth - located right inside the show entrance!

Saturday April 25th
10am-6pm

Sunday April 26th
11am-5pm

Assiniboia Downs

Admission $5.00/person
Use the 2 for 1 coupon at the left and bring a friend for free!
Children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult

Win a trip for 2 to Las Vegas!

The Ultimate Women's Show offers fashion, beauty, lifestyle, health and wellness, and gift items especially for women.

Professional Wedding Planners Conference

2009-03-04T15:13:00.001-06:00

An important part of my professional commitment of service to all of my clients is to build on the knowledge and experience I have as a wedding planner – from decor and design to new trends in food and photography. A few weeks ago I attended the Professional Wedding Planners Conference in Toronto and learned a lot in those two days – more than any book or magazine can ever convey.

The highlight of my weekend was an amazing seminar called “Advanced Design & Decor” by award-winning event designer Craig Gruzd from Designing Trendz Inc. Craig’s innovation and creativity are truly breathtaking. The advice and experience he shared in that brief amount of time has already inspired me as I work on each client’s wedding vision.

Another of Canada’s top wedding professionals in attendance was photographer Richard Emmanuel. Richard talked in depth about helping clients find the best photographer for their needs as well as hints for wedding planners creating the best photos for our websites and portfolios. An accomplished destination wedding photographer, he stressed how important it is for a couple to have their own wedding planner when getting married away from home, as it helps make his job run smoother and makes the entire trip much more enjoyable for the couple and their guests.

[NB: Wedding coordinators at resorts are professionals and committed to their clients; however, they may have several clients to take care of during your stay. Having your own planner along who is dedicated to you and your guests and who can liaise with the resort’s coordinator for you will ensure you all enjoy your entire experience.]

The conference finale was an in-depth seminar by Sandals Resorts that provided all of us in attendance with our Sandals certification. As a Certified Sandals Specialist, I’m able to advise clients on all of the Sandals properties (including Beaches, Royal Plantation & Grand Pineapple resorts) and which ones will best suit their needs and desires – whether it’s a week-long adventure, a relaxing romantic retreat, or a fun family WeddingMoon in paradise.

I highly recommend The Professional Wedding Planners Conference to other coordinators, photographers, caterers, and others in the wedding profession. My advice to brides and grooms is to make sure your wedding planner isn't static in his/her field but has a need for more knowledge, experiences and networking with other professionals.

Great Ideas

2009-01-31T12:43:00.000-06:00

Here are a couple of great ideas to get started on before you visit vendors, dress shops, and venues...

Create your own wedding "calling cards" on your computer at home or visit http://www.vistaprint.ca/ for some great free business card templates - you just pay the shipping. VistaPrint has some beautiful wedding designs that can be customized with your names, wedding date, and contact information. You can even include a photo of the two of you! A blank card back is plenty of room to write your dress measurements, wedding day details, or attach a swatch of your wedding colours. The cards are ideal to give potential vendors and your picture will help them remember you. These wallet-sized cards are also great as Save the Date cards for your family and friends. VistaPrint also makes address lables (you can use to enter draws at bridal shows), lawn signs (so your guests know where to find you), and thank you notes to send your guests after your big day.

Another hint that many coordinators use for clients' wedding colours...paint swatches. Head down to your local Home Depot or paint store and check out all the colours available. The room combo strips are fabulous if you are looking for colours that complement one another. If you carry it around in your wallet (or attached to the back of one of your calling cards) you won't be wondering if you've purchased the wrong hue of blue or shade of ivory.

Do you have any hints or advice for other brides and grooms? What has worked for you? Feel free to add your helpful hints that will make planning a wedding easier or less stressful...

Planning Your Wedding course

2009-01-27T15:49:00.000-06:00

Tuesday, March 10 and Tuesday, March 17
7:00pm until 9:00pm
R.W. Bobby Bend School
Stonewall, MB

This 4-hour course by certified wedding coordinator Louise McAllister of Weddings by Louise (www.weddingsbylouise.ca) will help you plan and organize your wedding. We will cover important topics such as budgets, guest lists, food and beverage selection and decor - and much more! Useful money-saving tips and wedding etiquette will also be discussed.

For more information on the course and registration fees, contact Jocelyn Derksen at the Interlake School Division http://www.isd21.mb.ca/

The Conscious Bride

2009-01-18T09:10:00.000-06:00

Whether you are a bride-to-be, a newlywed or someone who works with brides, this is a fantastic insight into the feelings and points of view of brides.

"The Conscious Bride ~ Women Unveil Their True Feelings about Getting Hitched" by Sheryl Paul Nissinen will help women prepare themselves for the emotional journey of planning their wedding and becoming married. It helps demystify the unfair "Bridezilla" label that has been placed on so many brides these days. (Personally, I don't believe in the Bridezilla legend.) The transition from "me" to "we" and the life altering rite of passage from daughter and single independent woman to partner and wife are often issues women don't address while transfering all of their time and energy into having the perfect Cinderella wedding.

"The Concious Bride" is filled with real stories from real women and will help a new bride open up and really experience the emotional journey she is on. Life really is a great adventure and this book is a fantastic road map for this time in your life.

The Benefits of Hiring a Wedding Coordinator

2009-01-07T15:56:00.000-06:00

While many brides in other cities consider it an integral part of getting married, hiring a professional wedding coordinator is a relatively new concept here in Manitoba. Even though some brides consider it an unnecessary expense, many newlyweds are thankful they had hired someone to supervise their day or wish they had at least visited a consultant for help getting started in their planning.

Most wedding coordinators offer a variety of services that can be tailored to your needs and desires. A consultation session with a professional can send you in the right direction as you begin planning for your special day. During your one-on-one session, your consultant can provide you with invaluable advice on budgets, cost-saving measures and hidden costs, wedding etiquette and traditions, and the pitfalls to avoid when researching and meeting with vendors.

Many grooms I've spoken with really want a wedding day coordinator for their day so that their new bride can relax and enjoy all of the celebrations without having to worry about the caterer, decor, flowers, or entertainment. Last minute issues or emergencies are looked after while the bride and groom enjoy the company of their guests and the day they have planned. Their wedding party and parents are also free to celebrate with the guests of honour.

Whether you live out of town or have a busy schedule that won't allow you to do all of the research and planning you'd like, you may find that full planning services from an experienced wedding professional will help ensure your day is a success. The average wedding takes 250 hours to plan and most planning takes place in the first few months of your engagement; However, with the help of a planner who will do all the research and legwork, you can still be involved for as little or as much as you'd like.

All of these above services are also available if you are planning on being married outside of the province or country. Certified destination wedding coordinators know the current requirements of popular wedding destinations such as Cuba, Las Vegas, and Mexico and can provide you with important information regarding customs, accommodations, and transportation.

Weddings by Louise is fully certified in wedding consultations and coordination, as well as being one of the very few certified destination wedding coordinators in Manitoba (and will soon be Sandals-certified as well). Our lead coordinators are familiar with many popular destinations, including the Mayan Riviera, Turks & Caicos, and cities across Canada and the US.

Get Fit & Have Fun!

2009-01-05T08:43:00.000-06:00

It's a new year and 2009 is a great opportunity for new beginnings - as well as starting a new life with your new partner. You may be newly engaged with wedding gowns on your mind or getting ready for your honeymoon or winter vacation. It doesn't have to be a chore. You can have fun doing it...

One hour per day.
Three days per week.
A group of 6-12 women with the same goals as you - to get fit, lose weight and have fun doing it.
You will be amazed at the changes you can make in just 4 weeks!

Imagine not just feeling better but actually feeling GREAT.
You will have more energy, feel less stressed, and have fun (honestly!).
The commaraderie and support of your campmates makes the hour and the exercising pass quickly.
These camps aren't filled by skinny-minnies or bulked up broads. These are real women - brides to be, new moms, empty nesters, and university students all trying to get fit and/or lose weight.
You work at your own pace and the groups are small enough that it's like having your own personal trainer.

I admit that I speak from experience. Three months ago I found the courage to enroll in my first boot camp through Sustainable Fitness. I was in the worse shape of everyone in class and could only do 12 "lady" push ups in one minute and 18 sit ups on the first day. Four weeks later, I did 22 push ups and 32 crunches. It was empowering. I've also lost 4-inches and 10 pounds.

This may sound like one of those obnoxious ads or infomercials you see on television but I truly believe fitness bootcamp is a great way to get things rolling. You may want to take one round of it and then head off on your own to your local gym or be a "repeat offender" but it's a great way to get moving. Local gyms and community centres have similar programs - just make sure that your instructor has the experience and certification to ensure your success.

Sustainable Fitness has several locations throughout Winnipeg and the surrounding area - including Brandon - with camps at various times during the day. Check out their website at http://sustainablefitness.com/ for dates and times. A new camp started this week but you can still sign up and the next one starts February 4. They also have great incentives for when you enroll or if you get friends and coworkers involved.

Good luck!

Destination Weddings ~ Turks & Caicos

2008-12-30T15:29:00.000-06:00

I recently returned from my first stay in Providenciales, Turks & Caicos (TCI) and my first thought upon arriving was that it is a fabulous destination wedding location. Many resorts on the islands feature wedding packages as one of the services they provide and there are independent coordinators in the TCI (and here in Canada) who can help plan your wedding details. One of the most popular resorts in Providenciales is Beaches - an award-winning, all-inclusive family friendly resort with activities for the entire family. The majority of the hotels lie along Grace Bay Beach and look out over spectacular turquoise waters.

Providenciales ("Provo") is the place for those of you looking for a quiet Caribbean destination without all the commercial chaos of home. There are no chain restaurants or stores. The airport is small but there are plans to expand it. Car and scooter rentals are available for your stay and a taxi will run you approximately $15/person from the airport to your resort. Several resorts are condominium complexes with units privately owned and rented out through the resort owners so many feature kitchenettes and washer/dryers - great for families vacationing together! You will find grocery items to be a bit pricey due to everything needing to be flown in to the country.

Although the nightlife options are fairly limited, there are amazing restaurants featuring menus for every palate. There are plenty of sightseeing options throughout the islands and, if watersports are your thing, this is THE place to be. The Turks & Caicos is considered one of the top scuba diving locations in the world and there is snorkeling, parasailing, windsurfing, waterskiing, fishing, etc...or just relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun.

In order to get married in the TCI, there is a 72 hour residency period before making your application to the Registrar for a marriage license and the process takes approximately 2-3 workdays. A Turks & Caicos marriage is legally recognized in Canada and the US.