Just Enough Sparkle: Allison and Damien

There was just enough sparkle between Allison and Damien on their wedding day to keep the room aglow all evening. Yet who could deny the bride all that glitters.

A gorgeous combination of blue, cream and (a favourite colour of mine) crystals! were the perfect touch to this glamourous August 2011 wedding.

Vaillant Florists created these yummy bouquets for the ladies. There are not a lot of natural and stunning blue flowers, so I'm completely smitten with this combination of shades and texture.  Don't get stuck on trying to find the perfect colour of flower, they just don't grow that way. Instead, build a bouquet with flowers you love and ask your florist for a few unique varieties that will complement your vision.  Bring photos of your decor, dress and location to help.

My classic photo, I often try to take a photo of the rings in the brides bouquet.

The ceremony and reception was held at Fort William Historical Park under caterers from the Victoria Inn.  The garden area was a beautiful backdrop for their ceremony and the heat wave broke to a cool 30 degrees that day.  Luckily after a variety of appetizers and refreshing beverages we took things inside for the reception.

Thanks to Silk and Cedar for the decor.  I am always a huge fan how fabric and lighting can transform a room, even one as rustic as McGillvary's Landing at FWHP.

 Seriously, you may not be able to see how fabulous they are from my photo but the crystal brooches at the knot on each chair cover but I love, love them.  Also notice that there is a sheer fabric over the spandex chair cover.  A beautiful layer and a way to personalize your decor.

These tall slim centrepieces were perfect to bring height to the decor but not too wide to block the flow of conversation.

 There isn't a lot you can do to hide the canoe hanging from the ceiling but the draping fabric and lights surely took away the attention.  When it was dark the room had a wonderful glow.

Paper is another great way to customize your design. Allison and Damien hired the same designer to create all their stationery. If you're a DIYer (do it yourself) try to work with a similar font, paper or embellishment.

 Another great idea is to work with your photographer before the big day.  Work an engagement session into your photography package.  You may want to use your photos to create a guest book. I love those personal touches and its a book your more likely to look at again, over a book a signatures.

Don't forget to have some fun with your wedding.  This cake topper showed their sense of humour. Umm it as meant to be funny right Allison? Kidding Damien.

 How many times have you seen this shade of fondant on a cake? Wedding cakes don't need to be white.

Now this was just the beginning of a night full of dancing. The ladies got the party started with a routine choreographed by a bridesmaid.  Now this is what I'm talking about, personalize your event and make it a day to remember for everyone.  Once the dance floor opened for the evening everyone was moving and there was nothing anyone could do to keep the bride and groom from rocking the party.

I hope your wedding day was everything you imagined Allison. You had amazing vision and I was thrilled to be a part of your day.

All the best to you both in the many years to come.

Site: Fort William Historical Park

Caterer: Victoria Inn

Photographer: Scott Chisholm

Video: thanks to Lauren and Kristin for helping with the home video. Who knew I hired such multi-skilled ladies.

Decor: Silk and Cedar

Flowers: Vaillant Flowers

Officiant: Joyce Elder

Brides dress: Eva's Bridal

Bridesmaid: Alfred Angelo from Irma's Boutique

Men's wear: Moore's

Cake: Desserts Only

Thank you to KC, Kristin and Lauren for being a great team! 

Cheers from YI

Heather + Denis = 3

August 5, 2011 was not only one of the hottest of the year (40 degrees yikes) but it will be remembered for something much better.

Keegan invited friends and family to the marriage of his parents Heather and Denis! Not only was it a beautiful wedding but a party like no other.  This group can really rock a reception.

Keegan may have been wandering during the ceremony to find shade but the special moment was not lost on this great little boy.  Everyone else was just as pleased to endure the heat but only for such a fantastic pair.

(Thankfully Shannon the photographer was better at keeping her camera straight)

Until you see them together it could be difficult to see these three bold colours for your wedding.  Unless of course you're Heather and have a great ultimate vision. Try breaking out from the typical and go with more than 2 colours, not just one main colour and a complement. Just look how vibrant bright blue, pink and yellow look together. WOW!

We even alternated the flower colour on dinner tables.  We came close to becoming blue ourselves with colouring the water but with such great results it would have been worth it.

It may not have helped a lot but any shade was welcome while taking photos. Yet nothing could stop all the laughter between these close friends. Girls, you look amazing!

Having finally been able to shed their jackets the groom (right) and groomsmen stayed cool with their shades and fedoras.

Having been married for less than 2 hours at this moment Heather and Denis were all smiles and this certainly continued for the rest of the day.  They truly make each other happy and you can see it on the face of their plus 1, little Keegan.

Congratulations to all three of you! I wish you the best in life, love and happiness and many more smiles.

Ceremony and Reception: Best Western Resort Hotel and Conference Centre

Officiant: Trish MacGowan

Photographer: Shannon LePere

Video: Nathan Allard

Flowers: From the Heart Florist

Decor: From the Heart Florist

Jewelry and Alterations: Grandesign Sewing Specialist

Thanks to Kristin for helping YI today!