Friend and Client

You're Invited came to life when my mother and step father finally married after 20 years together.  My brilliant idea had him propose around their 18th anniversary so I could help my mom plan the wedding for the next 2 years. Although planning a wedding (yours or hers) with you mother may not be the easiest project but it was satisfying knowing that she had her perfect day and I could be a part of it.  One month later You're Invited was born.  Thank you mom, you are my friend and inspiration.

For the past year I have been helping another friend plan her wedding to take place this October, the 24 to be exact. It was only fitting seeing as though I had a little help moving the engagement along (that's not in my service package ladies).

I am truly thrilled to be a part of this celebration and even more thrilled with her trust in me.  I was able to create a vision that she loved (or maybe I convinced her) because she was pretty agreeable to my suggestions.  I only want the best for her wedding to her groom.

I will have more details as the last few weeks come together because right now I still have a lot of work to do.  Congratulations Tracey and Jeff.

Welcome to Crystal and Shane

You're Invited is pleased to welcome bride and groom Crystal and Shane to the You're Invited family. Although it's a January 2010 wedding do not expect a chilly reception. They are a fantastic couple and their guests will be welcomed with warm hearts and open arms. The ceremony will be held at a new venue for me so I am looking forward to the results.  I will keep you up to date on the progress and anticipated success of this new selection.
I will also be sure to pack my boots and warm mittens.  Some photos are planned for outside and if January has anything to say about it, it's going to be a little cold that day but since all my weddings have beautiful days (negotiations with Mother Nature) I'm positive this day will be the pefect combination of warm sun and fluffy snow.
Congratulations Crystal and Shane, may all of your days be filled with the love you share today.

DIY - Decor 8

I found an adorable blog today with inspiring diy ideas. Take a look this link leading to Decor 8 and enjoy!

Wedding Friday, September 18

On Friday I had the pleasure of assisting Koral and Kevin in celebrating their wedding ceremony and reception. We enjoyed a beautifully sunny and warm mid-September afternoon, the opposite of many of our recent summer days. The ceremony began under a canopy of orange and bronze fabric swaying to the soft melody of the cellist. The continuous squirrel's chirp would have received the annoyed side of a pine cone if it hadn't stopped just in time to hear the vows. 

The reception was the result of great effort designing the atmosphere and developing a timeline to coordinate each detail for over 80 guests to enjoy.  With all the planning that takes place prior to the wedding day there are often a number of events that require attention and my wish is to redirect any issues  from the couple so they can enjoy the day and not work through it.

continue for more of the story


For example on Friday:

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  The tent was decorated the night before and the condensation that rose during the night then warmed the next morning ran down causing the orange fabric leaves to run into the white fabric.  I arranged to fix this without bothering the bride and groom.
  
  
  
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  Maple leaves were ordered to place on the aisle but came still attached to the stems.  I was happy to prepare this then move them to the tent for maximum use.
  
  
  
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  The MC fell under the weather so I took over the duties.
  
  
  
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   The groom and groomsmen accepted some help on last minute touches to their tux presentation.
  
  
  
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   All details were prepared for two wedding party members who were held up at the salon and had only 10 minutes to dress.
  
  
  
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   The favours needed to be placed alphabetically, flowers put in the centerpieces, corsages pinned, wedding party members in placed...It was another wedding full of experience for an experienced wedding consultant.
  
  
  

Lessons for the bride.

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  Make sure your stylist can accommodate all wedding party members at once or start earlier.  It will take about 1.5 hours for the bride's hair depending on style and accessories. 
  
  
  
• Do not decorate with fabric in a tent until the morning of the wedding
• Heat lamps are needed, even in August
• Consider all aspects of your wedding before you order invitations.  You may need more time after the ceremony for photos but if your symposium starts you need to be there.

Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of your beautiful celebration.  It was truly a special day.

Much love, Bethanie

another happy client

Thanks for the great words and this photo on your facebook KC!
"Best Wedding Planner Ever"
It was my absolute pleasure to assist you with your wedding!

Hello world-This is me in action, I like to take a few photos during the day. The photographer Alvis Plavins, got us into the CLE for some amazing photos. See my Inspiration links to find Bliss Pictures for more details.

Friday weddings

In just over 24 hours another happy couple will be married under my watchful eye.  I have worked with this bride and groom since late 2007 to bring together their vision of a perfect wedding.  I am excited to see each detail come together on their wedding day because it has been such a long time since we first met.  Although fall colours are being held off by the beautiful weather we're having the decor including colours orange, bronze, brown and cream will work beautifully in the outdoor surroundings of the White Fox.

Friday weddings are becoming more popular because of the short summer seasons and availability of the perfect venue.  Here are a few items to consider when planning a Friday wedding.

September 18th wedding

Second post, so far so good!
I'm so excited to share my experiences here with you but still working hard on a few more upcoming weddings for 2009 and even more for 2010.
This Friday, September 18 I will be helping Koral and Kevin celebrate their wedding at the White Fox Inn.  (I will have photos for you soon.)  As we iron out a few details during the rehearsal I am looking forward to the end result on a day that promises to have nice weather.  Welcome back summer of 2009 that never was.
Don't get me started on weather and outdoor weddings.  I will leave that for another day, which could actually fill several posts (and will).  I'm looking for your good or bad outdoor wedding stories!  I know there are many out there so spill it.

Til next time,
Bethanie

First Day of Many

Welcome to my blog and welcome to the first of many posts to come. After celebrating 5 wonderful years of wedding consulting services in Thunder Bay I thought it was only appropriate to share my experiences with my home town and even the world.

Visit often for regular conversations about planning, features on past and upcoming weddings, ideas that I have fallen in love with and want you to enjoy and the day to day wonders of wedding planning in Thunder Bay. This town knows how to throw a party and You're Invited to join me on my adventures.

Much love.
Bethanie