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New York’s Bridal Fashion Week 2018 Wedding Dress Trends

Posted in Wedding Trends

Courtesy of Stella’s Bridal and Evening Collections

We’ve been waiting in anticipation, and now the New York Bridal Fashion Week runway has unveiled the hottest new bridal collections and wedding dress trends for the 2018 Fall/Winter wedding season. Romantic, feminine looks feature blush shades, accessories such as textured fur, feathers and fringe and sleek, shapely silhouettes.

The dresses featured in the image above can be found at Stella’s Bridal & Evening Collections.

Here is a summary of some of the trends we can expect to see a whole lot more of in 2018:

Sophisticated Jumpsuits & Pantsuits – An alternative to the wedding gown, less formal and ideal for those brides who don’t typically wear dresses anyway.

Textured Fur, Feathers, Fringe & Accessories – Texture and more texture! Embellished and accessorized gowns, beaded, embroidered, 3D floral applique, floral veils, hair accessories, feather headpieces, tassels and beaded headbands add interest.

Princess, Covered Up & Outerwear Influence – Capelets, moto jackets, blazers, bolero jackets, hooded styles, the sweater look over shoulders and long sleeves works with a plethora of different gown styles.

Sheer, Naked Dress & Barely-there Gowns – Miniskirts, the modern high-low, bustiers and garter belts. Skin is in.

Lush Blush – Traditional silhouettes and ball gowns in every shade of blush.

Designers featured on the 2018 Bridal Fashion Week runway include:

Theia, Ines Di Santo, Reem Acra , Zuhair Murad, Naeem Khan, Melissa Sweet for David’s Bridal, Dennis Basso for Kleinfeld, Monique Lhuillier,  Justin Alexander, Lazaro, Ivy & Aster, Allison Webb, Alexandra Grecco, Idan Cohen, Berta, Oleg Cassini, Gracy Accad, Inbal Dror, Victoria Kyriakides, Mark Zunino, Elie Saab, Galia Lahav, Laure de Sagazan, Savannah Miller, Hayley Paige, Liancarlo, Marchesa, Rime Arodaky, Viktor & Rolf Mariage, Sachin & Babi, Galina by David’s Bridal, Lihi Hod, Francesca Miranda and Pronovias.

Filed under: Wedding Dresses

VENDOR SPOTLIGHT: EPH APPAREL

Posted in Men's Formal Wear

Eph Apparel

Custom Formal Wear for the Modern Gentleman

Winnipeg’s Eph Apparel produces custom-made suits, tuxedos, blazers, dress pants, dress shirts, topcoats and accessories all made to your exact measurements. Unlike off-the-rack suits, you get to select your favourite style, then customize your look by choosing from hundreds of different fabrics, as well as the number of buttons, type of lapel and much, much more.

“By utilizing a unique approach, we produce quality, affordable custom-made clothing for men,” explains Andrew Parkes, Co-Founder and Director of Marketing and Operations at Eph Apparel. “Whether you want something in a classic fit in a timeless black or a bold plaid pattern in a slim cut, we can make it exactly how you want it.”

Perfect for wedding parties, they offer fun and interactive group fittings where the goal is to make the process engaging, educational and unlike any other traditional shopping experience.

“The group fitting was an incredible experience. The moment we walked in, we felt at home. The Jets game was on the big screen TV, a private weddings corner had been reserved exclusively for our use and the team at Eph made the experience fun and easy unlike something you might experience at a tux rental shop,” explains Paul, who got married September 2016 in an Eph suit.

On top of the customization, you also get their Flawless Fit Guarantee program which not only ensures that the price you pay when you order covers everything from production to shipping and alterations, but that it is also a risk-free purchase – if you don’t love it, they will remake it for free or offer a complete refund.

Exceptional service, unrivalled style and a price even Winnipeggers love, helped Eph win the titles of “Winnipeg’s Favourite Menswear Retailer” by Metro News and the “58th Fastest Growing Company in Canada” by Canadian Business.

Interested in a completely unique shopping experience? Stop by the Eph store at their new location, 190 Smith Street, call 1.888.343.6117 or visit www.ephapparel.com. 

Photo Supplied

Andrew Parkes, Co-Founder and Director of Marketing and Operations

ASK THE EXPERTS: PEARLY WHITES

Posted in Ask the Experts, Health & Beauty, V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1

WITH CLARITY DENTAL

Photo: Supplied

Q: What are some dental procedures that could take my smile to the next level?

A: As you start planning your wedding, you think of a date, location and what to wear. What most of us forget to do is think about our smile – that is until we receive our wedding photos back! At Clarity Dental, Dr. Hala Salama performs simple and affordable dental procedures that can enhance your smile in a short amount of time.

Here is what we recommend:

Cleaning or hygiene: In many cases a thorough, professional cleaning is all that is required.

Whitening: There are many different options for whitening your teeth. Over-the-counter kits, custom-made home whitening kits and laser whitening, the most-effective option, performed in the dental office.
Fillings or bonding: Gaps you want closed or fillings that no longer match can be fixed in a single office visit.

Veneers, crowns and/or bridges: Crowns or veneers are a great way to cover up existing teeth to create a full smile, and a bridge can replace a missing tooth. Invisalign: If you have some crowding or one tooth out of place, Invisalign treatment can be completed in a month in some cases.

Photo: Supplied

Dr. Hala Salama, Principal Dentist at Clarity Dental, brings over 20 years experience to her practice offering a full range of general dentistry, as well as cosmetic and implant dentistry. Clarity Dental is located at 2 – 1360 Taylor Avenue.

Ask the Experts was originally published in V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1. We asked seven local pros to answer some of your commonly asked wedding planning questions. Read the magazine to find more inspiration, planning tips, fashion & real weddings.

ASK THE EXPERTS: ON LOCATION

Posted in Ask the Experts, Decor & Rentals, V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1

WITH PLANNED PERFECTLY

Photo: Supplied

Q: How many different colours should we incorporate into our wedding ceremony and reception venues?

A: Every wedding is unique, and bringing together all of your favourite design and décor details can be challenging. Tables and seating occupy a large portion of the wedding reception venue, so approach these items with care.

The linen, décor and chair covers should not take away from the cohesiveness of the venue or compete with the main focal points. For example, a bright sash on the chairs may distract from the centrepiece. If you have a subtle palette, you can get away with three or four tones of the same colour, but when you are going bold, keeping the selection down to two colours allows the centrepieces to pop and the theme to shine.

A great way to subtly bring in more colour is with reception stationery such as table numbers, menus, place cards and your seating chart. As well, accent tables such as a guest book, cake or candy table are a great place to bring in another colour or texture, adding to your overall feel without it becoming a distraction.

Photo: Supplied

Kylee Houlahan is the owner of Planned Perfectly Specialty Linens & Draping, located at 199 Omands Creek Boulevard. Going into their tenth year, Planned Perfectly has the experience and expertise to aid in your décor needs. Whether your guest list is 50 or 1,000, they have the quantity and selection to make your event perfect.

Ask the Experts was originally published in V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1. We asked seven local pros to answer some of your commonly asked wedding planning questions. Read the magazine to find more inspiration, planning tips, fashion & real weddings.

ASK THE EXPERTS: LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

Posted in Ask the Experts, V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1

WITH MANUEL F. SOUSA PHOTOGRAPHY

Manuel F. Sousa Photography

Q: How far in advance do we need to book our wedding photographer?
A: I generally suggest booking your photographer anywhere from one year to 18 months ahead of your wedding date to be safe. Of course it all depends on certain factors. For example, what time of year is it? Is it on a weekend or weekday? Is it a destination wedding?

Once you know which photographer you want for your wedding day, don’t procrastinate and take the chance that someone else will book them first. It will be a good feeling knowing that it’s booked and that you can cross that job off your list. You have lots of other things to think about for your wedding day!

Photo: Supplied

Manuel F. Sousa was given his first camera at the age of 14 when he started taking photos as a hobby. He considers himself incredibly fortunate to have turned his hobby into a career that he loves. Manuel moved from Toronto to Winnipeg in 1992 and has photographed over 870 weddings since.

Ask the Experts was originally published in V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1. We asked seven local pros to answer some of your commonly asked wedding planning questions. Read the magazine to find more inspiration, planning tips, fashion & real weddings.

ASK THE EXPERTS: HE LOVES ME!

Posted in Ask the Experts, Flowers, V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1

With Academy Florist

Photos by: Mackenzie Jean Photography

Q: How much should we budget for wedding flowers?

A: Typically, during an initial email inquiry or in-person consultation at Academy Florist, our customers are unsure what to budget for wedding flowers. Because every couple has a unique vision for flowers and their special day, we customize every single wedding order.

Our customers are looking for items such as large focal arrangements, centrepieces, bouquets, boutonnières, corsages, garlands, wreaths, hairpieces, cake flowers or guest book table arrangements for their wedding ceremony and reception venues. We do our very best to accommodate every budget, suggest how to best allocate funds and present options that are in keeping with the their vision.

A wedding flower budget can range anywhere from $500 to $5,000. A little creativity and experience combined with a carefully thought out plan can turn a vision into reality while staying within budget.

Photo by: Carrie Ekosky Photography

Irene Seaman, owner of Academy Florist at 925 Corydon Avenue, has delighted in creating inspired floral designs in Winnipeg for over 35 years. Irene and her team strive to achieve service excellence and continue to focus on quality and exceptional design.

Ask the Experts was originally published in V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1. We asked seven local pros to answer some of your commonly asked wedding planning questions. Read the magazine to find more inspiration, planning tips, fashion & real weddings.

ASK THE EXPERTS: RING BLING

Posted in Ask the Experts, V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1, Wedding Resources

With Bijou Fine Jewellery

Q: Engagement rings and wedding bands are a huge investment, how can we be sure that we’re getting good value for our money?

A: For centuries, engagement rings and wedding bands have served as symbols of everlasting love. Incorporating diamonds and other rare gems, as well as precious metals like gold and platinum, it’s no surprise that these rings come with a cost.

To ensure that you get the most for your investment, make sure that your jeweller uses top quality gems, like GIA certified diamonds. Ensure you are given a full appraisal, and that your jeweller is a master when it comes to setting the jewels just right.

You deserve impeccable service to ensure you get the perfect design, and it’s imperative that your jeweller is known for their quality so your rings will last for generations. In the end, you need to be confident that you have the right team to bring your vision to life. At Bijou, we specialize in one-of-a-kind custom creations, expertly designed and crafted by the best goldsmiths in the province.

Photo: Supplied

Born into the jewellery and gems business, Ashiq Katoo of Bijou Fine Jewellery learned the fine art of gemology, design and jewellery making at a young age. He has a keen eye for rare gems and jewels, and prides himself on the quality of his work and high level of personalized service.

Ask the Experts was originally published in V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1. We asked seven local pros to answer some of your commonly asked wedding planning questions. Read the magazine to find more inspiration, planning tips, fashion & real weddings.

Ask the Experts: Made-To-Measure

Posted in Ask the Experts, Men's Formal Wear, V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1

With Eph Apparel

Q: How long in advance should we order suits for our wedding party?

A: Here at EPH Apparel, we recommend placing wedding party orders no less than three months in advance to allow adequate time for turnaround and pick up. Wedding season is peak time in our industry, and we don’t want to turn any groups away because they’ve left the ordering process too late.

Allowing sufficient time to attend a fitting will ensure our team will be able to create a made-to-measure suit for every man in your wedding party at a fraction of the price of a traditional suit retailer. Our customers can choose their desired fit, lapel, collar and cuff, and add custom finishing details such as pick stitching, funky liners and free monogramming.

Reach out early to lock in a fitting date that works for all the men in your group and place that order. It will be one more thing you can check off your wedding planning to-do list!

Photo: Supplied

Alex Ethans is co-owner and operator of EPH Apparel, a Canadian menswear company specializing in custom-made suits with a Flawless Fit Guarantee. EPH’s flagship store is located on the main floor at 291 Garry Street.

Ask the Experts was originally published in V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1. We asked seven local pros to answer some of your commonly asked wedding planning questions. Read the magazine to find more inspiration, planning tips, fashion & real weddings.

Ask the Experts: The Dress

Posted in Ask the Experts

With Stella’s Bridal & Evening Collections

Q: What style of dress will suit my body best?

A:When it comes to choosing a dress, there is no rule without exception. Some say that if you are pear shaped, then you should stick to an A-line silhouette to minimize the hips. That being said, if you want to wear a fit-to-flare dress and show off your curves, my advice is to go that route. The key is finding the perfect neckline; something that is a little wider across the top of the bustline, such as Maggie Sottero’s Chante (right) or Marianne (left) gown, will balance the hips and create an hourglass shape.

If you are petite, you may be told that a ball gown will overpower your smaller stature, but this isn’t necessarily true. You should match the volume of your skirt to your height and be the princess you’ve always wanted to be! (Middle gown, Miel by Aire Barcelona)

The bottom line is that you should try on all different shapes and styles. Trust your consultant and you will find the perfect gown. In some cases, the most flattering style is the one you least expect.

DeeDee’s Headshot: Rygiel Photography & Video

 DeeDee Hunt is the manager of Stella’s Bridal & Evening Collections located at 516 Portage Avenue. Stella’s carries a beautiful selection of bridal lines including Aire Barcelona, La Sposa, Justin Alexander, Maggie Sottero, Stella York and Callista.

Ask the Experts was originally published in V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1. We asked seven local pros to answer some of your commonly asked wedding planning questions. Read the magazine to find more inspiration, planning tips, fashion & real weddings.

Filed under: Ask the Experts • V.I.B. Weddings Issue 1 • Wedding Dresses

Wedding Countdown

Posted in Wedding Resources

18 Months to One Year Before:

• Announce your engagement.
• Set your date and time for ceremony and reception.
• Make up your budget.
• Reserve locations for your ceremony and reception; select the officiate.
• Decide on size and type of wedding.
• Decide on guest list, start gathering names and addresses.
• Choose a professional photographer, florist, baker, videographer, caterer, DJ or band, wedding consultant (if you choose to use one) and transportation.
• Have professional engagement portrait taken and submit to newspaper.
• Select attendants, flower girl, maid/matron of honour.
• Start looking for your gown.
• Select bridesmaids’ dresses, keep colour swatch for florist and reception hall colour coordination.

Three to Six Months Before:

• Decide reception details: menu, decor, food service, type of bar service, type of cake, type of music during dinner.
• Finish your guest list.
• Finalize honeymoon plans.
• Complete necessary requirements for marriage license.
• Continue work on ceremony plans.
• Order personal stationery and invitations.
• Order bonbonnières for guests.
• Register for gifts at a bridal registry.
• Make sure all bridal attire is ordered.
• Make sure all groom and groomsmen attire is ordered.
• Arrange for both mothers to coordinate attire.
• Make plans for where you’ll live after the wedding.

Two Months Before:

• Mail out invitations five weeks prior to wedding.
• Finalize ceremony plans.
• Finalize plans with photographer, videographer, baker, florist, DJ or band, caterer.
• Finalize music selections for ceremony and reception.
• Plan rehearsal dinner.

One Month Before:

• Get marriage license and/or take care of any other legal requirements.
• Finalize schedule for photographer/videographer.
• Speak to band or DJ regarding song list.
• Attend to transportation requirements for your wedding day.
• Purchase gifts for attendants and bridal party.
• Start your record of gifts received.
• Final fittings for bride and attendants.
• Purchase gift for fiancé.

Two Weeks Before:

• Attend to miscellaneous business and legal details.
• Check on accommodations for out of town guests.
• Confirm all honeymoon arrangements.

One Week Before:

• Designate an emergency coordinator from your wedding party and equip them with any and all emergency phone numbers for all suppliers and vendors. Give them a three ring binder with copies of all your wedding day contracts.
• Insure that the wedding party picks up their attire.
• Write thank you notes for parents, close friends, or relatives who will receive them on your wedding day.
• Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner, distribute wedding party gifts.
• Make sure you have marriage license and rings.
• Contact guests who have not R.S.V.P.’d.
• Give final count to banquet hall or caterer, finalize seating arrangements
• Reconfirm all honeymoon reservations.

On Your Wedding Day:

Bride & Groom:

• Eat something in the morning.
• Don’t worry, be happy!! Enjoy!!

Bride:

• Allow ample time for makeup, nails, getting dressed, and other details.
• Ensure one of your girls has your emergency kit.
• If there are going to be preparation photos by the professional photographer, start them two hours before the ceremony.

Groom:

• Give yourself plenty of time to get dressed.

After The Wedding:

Bride & Groom:

• The day after the wedding, send thank you cards to the bride’s parents and the groom’s parents with a personal note expressing your gratitude for the wedding and reception.