Bridal Beauty – AVPEvents Blog

The Best Black Friday deals ever in Toronto to consider shopping this season before you get married in 2020

Published on November 24, 2019November 21, 2019 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

Engagement season has just begun and Black Friday is around the corner. You might be thinking “What on earth do I shop for on Black Friday that’s wedding related!?” Keep reading!

Black Friday sample sales & trunk shows

If you don’t have your wedding dress or your bride tribe doesn’t have their dresses, this is the perfect opportunity to shop. Dying for a designer gown? Kleinfeld Canada is having a Black Friday Sample Sale where you get up to 90% off gowns by Clara Rosa, Pnina Tornai and Maggie Sottero. Call 416.861.4800 to book your appointment.

Buy wedding favors in bulk

If you’re having a larger wedding and need to buy favors in bulk? Now is the time to start looking for exactly what you want! Hop onto Amazon and be sure to set yourself up for Prime and research pricing and quantities. Black Friday deals mean price reductions and savings on items you are looking to nab!

Order wedding invitations for less

If you are considering cute “Save the Dates” or actual wedding invitations, websites like Minted that typically offer percentages off will have a great Black Friday sale. Create an account and start browsing invitation styles and be sure you know exactly what you want to go on the invite. You want to be able to take advantage quickly. Also, side note, since these guys are online, it might be worth it to wait until Cyber Monday when deals are better and geared towards online shopping!

Coupon codes for printing wedding stationary

Are you designing your own seating chart? Signage for dessert and cocktail tables? Name place cards? If you have everything ready to go on a USB stick, Vista Print is your next stop! Upload your designs where you want them, check them over carefully and plug in that Black Friday coupon code!

Black Friday deals on wedding accessories

No better time of the year to shop for shoes and jewelry! If there is a gorge pair of earrings you’ve been eyeing or a cute pair of casual sneaks your considering wearing for the reception- do it! Black Friday deals will likely be starting this week and only get better as the actual day approaches. Do your homework and price things out and DO NOT WAIT! If your shoe size is popular (think size 7) or your size is carried in limited quantities (like 10) get them if you find them.

Shop Black Friday gifts for your wedding party

Planning on getting everyone something similar or really personalized? Black Friday is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Shop around for some ideas if you aren’t quite sure what you want, and make some calls to ensure the quantities you need are available. Nothing can really be set aside that day, its typically first come first serve so be ready.

100 Insanely smart tips to help a busy bride stay on budget and save money while planning a beautiful wedding

Published on April 29, 2019April 24, 2019 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

Keep your guest list small
Choose flowers that are in season
Consider a Friday or Sunday wedding
Create & print your own invites- here’s a discount code for Minted
Get married on off-peak season (November-April)
Skip the plated meal and do a buffet
Have more comfort food and snacks vs formal food options
Rent certain items vs buying them
Choose a non-traditional wedding venue: municipal park or beach
Google local sample sales and trunk shows for your wedding gown
Shop local outlet stores for bridesmaids’ dresses
Purchase handmade items directly from the seller e.g. Etsy
Ditch favors or limit them to 1 per couple
Keep the ceremony and reception at the same place to cut down rentals, transportation and décor
Rent your wedding dress
YouTube makeup tutorials or go to Sephora for a makeup lesson then do your own makeup
Swap in a sweet table instead of a dessert course
Buy your own booze for the wedding
Only serve appetizers during the cocktail hour
Find a music student(s) to entertain during cocktail hour or for the ceremony (have them audition first!)
Find a newer cake artist to make your cake
Swap your cake for smaller cupcakes or tarts
Limit the bar hours or have an alcohol-free wedding
Instead of multiple shooters, only have 1 photographer
Use wildflowers as fillers in your centerpieces
Opt for sparkling wine over champagne
Use a credit card to pay for vendors etc that has points or rewards so you get something back
Google local wedding shows to get deals on potential vendors
Use coupons or Facebook Marketplace to score deals on accessories or décor items
Hire a wedding planner; what you pay them to do will end up being made up in savings because they can negotiate contracts and save you time
Schedule to do cake cutting and first dance earlier in the evening to cut down on photography hours
More than 3 courses for dinner might be excessive, guests should be fed but don’t overdo it
Have a smaller cake created for display and cutting and have a larger slab cake in the back that gets served to guests
Have a smaller bridal party to cut down costs and possibly hassle
Ditch the bridal party altogether and just have a flower girl and ring bearer to save on gifts
Use a playlist for the cocktail hour and dinner and a DJ for the reception party
Cocktails and mixed drinks are usually more expensive at the bar so limit the options to beer and wine
See if the venue has larger tables so you cut back on the amount of centerpieces
Use something other than flowers for your centerpieces such as candles, picture frames, lanterns
Elope or do a pop-up wedding
Consider emailing your “Save the Dates”
Only invite people you are close to you (you’ve seen and hung out with them in the last 5 years)
Stick to the house wines offered instead of specialty ones
DIY certain wedding items
If one of your friends recently got married and kept some of their décor, ask to borrow it
Buy things like candles and favors in bulk, the price is usually less (buy more than 50 pieces)
Have your shower or rehearsal at home instead of a restaurant
Naked cakes look lovely or instead choose buttercream icing over fondant
Kids meals are cheaper so be sure to ask for a kids menu if you plan to have kids at the wedding or have no kids at all
Only have 1 or 2 options for vegetarian or vegan meals, the more choices the more money
Borrow accessories from friends or a family member instead of buying them
Have the wine at dinner served rather than sitting on the table so consumption is staggered during the evening
Don’t forget tips, shipping fees and taxes and gratuity to be factored into your budget
Decide if you are allowing +1’s or not, additional guests can impact your budget greatly
Negotiate pricing on some contracts
Read over contract carefully and ask questions, it’s very easy to misunderstand something and then get overcharged
Enable people to RSVP on a website instead of traditional paper RSVP’s, plus it’s easier to track
See if your venue has a list of preferred vendors, sometimes they want you to use them but it might cost you. Ask if you are permitted to use outside vendors. They may require approval
Find a venue that needs minimal décor
Get married in a backyard garden to save on venue and décor costs
Price shop for vendors to before booking anything to see if there are comparable prices available
Avoid getting married on a Saturday or a long weekend, it’s the most expensive day to get married
Keep appetizers between 2-3 pieces per person and keep in mind the caterer will likely try to up sell you
If you are wearing a longer dress, no one will see you shoes so why splurge?
Go through each item on your budget to see if there are ways to trim it down
Everyone loves a good wedding trend but they are usually pricey because they are in high demand
Hand write your place cards/escort cards or design them on Minted
Research various wedding budgets and revise yours based on what your research finds
Thank you’s to the bridal party are lovely but don’t have to break the bank
Consider one big single bloom for the bouquets
Don’t let vendors rope you into more than you want too (a planner can help with this) you can politely decline any add-ons
Florists typically charge more for labor so buy your own flowers in bulk to save
Stick to a signature cocktail during the cocktail hour and have it passed around. It will not only save on alcohol but will add a nice personal touch as well.
Can we say: “Free wedding stationary printables” We said it.
Instead of renting a nice car, can you borrow one from someone you know?
Keep all of your receipts so you can monitor what you’ve spent
Ask guests to email their RSVPs to you directly and keep an email file folder of them
Choose a venue outside of a major city. Costs of downtown venues and parking can make sticking to your budget difficult
Wait for a good deal to take your honeymoon instead of right afterwards. Check out Skyscanner or Next Vacay
Get a dress that actually fits instead of off the rack and needing expensive alterations
When in doubt, don’t buy a dress a size or two too small, it’s easier to make a larger dress smaller than the opposite
For any out of town guests, ask hotels close by the wedding venue for reduced rates based on rooms booked
Instead of expensive centerpieces, have empty vases on the tables and use the bridesmaid’s bouquets as centerpieces
Troll Instagram and wedding websites for contests and giveaways
Go to Wedding Wire and see if any vendors you need are offering discounts on their services
Buy as much as you can in bulk (food, flowers, candy) rather than specialty stores that will have higher prices
Shorten your planning time, you will be much more decisive with a strict timeline
Only have the photographer and videographer cover just the ceremony
See if videography can be added to your photography package instead of hiring 2 separate vendors
Any leftover wedding items you have, sell them online
Use the word “wedding” only when necessary (like with venues and photographers) sometimes there’s an up charge
Only splurge on ONE thing like good food or music
Find out if there is a minimum spend at the venue if they have in house catering. Usually if you make the minimum spend, they waive the venue rental fee
Keep your invites to a singe sheet, pretty but simple. It will save on postage
Ask friends to help where they can, as ushers, officiant, MC, DJ
Sew your own table runners with fabric you purchase yourself
Silk and paper flowers go a long way
Skip the traditional wedding dress shops and go to major retailers like Le Chateau or Etsy for your dress
Consider a different time of day: Morning or afternoon so you save on dinner food
Make sure you and your partner are both on the same page on where to splurge and where to cutback!

Style Shoot: Woodland Escape

Published on March 20, 2019March 18, 2019 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

I had the privilege of being able to do outdoor shoots last year for Elegant Wedding Magazine. I shared the first one with you all, Spring Garden at the Toronto Botanical Gardens in Toronto.

This shoot was very different and I loved it for that reason. It was paramount that as many natural elements were included to maintain an organic feel. It’s not often an outdoor wedding can utilize most of the natural elements outside to contribute to the overall tone of the event style. But it can be done!

Here are some of our favorite shots of this simply stunning shoot!

To see more head on over to the Elegant Wedding Magazine blog post Moody Woodland Forest Wedding

Vendor Credits:

Venue: Fantasy Farms

Photographer: The Butterfly Photography

Florals: Divine Flowers Toronto

Dresses: Mona Lisa Bridal Gallery

Table Top Decor: Plate Occasions

Rentals: Chairman Mills

Decor and Props: Cre8ive Studios

Stationary: GM Calligraphy

Cake and Confections: Dolce Vita Cakes by Albina

HMUA: Makeup Couture/ Hair Couture

Style Shoot: Spring Garden

Published on January 4, 2019January 3, 2019 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

Wedding season is right around the corner so here is some Spring Garden inspo my team and I created at the Toronto Botanical Gardens.

Behind the scenes: A sneak peek of the Galia Lahav SS19 Collection at White Toronto

Published on December 14, 2018December 13, 2018 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

Yesterday, was the first day of the Galia Lahav trunk show at White Toronto, so we stopped by to take a peek at the new collection! Stunning fabrics, appliques and tulle, intricate beading and crystals, dramatic shoulders and beautiful trains.

Royal Wedding Details: Inside the fairy tale

Published on May 22, 2018 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

The bells have rung, the aisle has been walked, the vows have been said and the kiss was sealed! I don’t know about anyone else, but I am still in awe of this past Saturday’s Royal Wedding. I find myself reliving so much of it and still getting giddy and excited while looking at the photos.

Meghan was so lovely in her custom Givenchy dress designed by Clare Waight Keller. It was incredibly simple and elegant with clean lines and took 3,900 hours in four months to make! Meghan’s veil also had the sentimental hand-embroidered detail of a Californian poppy representing her homeland.

There are some mixed feelings about the overall simplicity of the dress, some loved it and other’s thought it was anything but flattering. Now that I’ve had some time to think about it, I didn’t mind how clean the lines were but what I didn’t love was that at different angles it looked frumpy and not completely tailored. Of course, if the new Duchess of Sussex loved it- who am I?! Meghan’s veil was stunning, her hair being pulled back only made sense considering the neckline of her dress and to add to her “Markle sparkle” she wore the breath-taking Queen Mary Diamond Bandeau tiara loaned to her by the Queen.

Besides the moment Harry told her “you look amazing” and melted all of our hearts, what got me ugly crying was the emotion he showed singing the hymn “Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer” which was sung at Princess Diana’s funeral. It was sweet as well that Harry handpicked Meghan’s bouquet of his mother’s favorite flower “Forget me Not’s”. Of course, in conjunction with honoring his late mother, the name of the bloom itself in relation to his mother not being there was enough to make us sob.

Overall it was more beautiful than I imagined it would be and absolutely worth getting up insanely early to watch. As a woman of color, I felt a twinge of pride seeing not just Meghan marry the love of her life and break through barriers that have never been challenged before. To hear a gospel choir and see people of color involved in various aspects of the wedding just made me burst!

To finish off all the fairy tale feels, Meghan wore a mind-blowing gown by Stella McCartney for the post wedding festivities. I have to admit, I adored this dress in comparison to her actual wedding gown. With all of this being said, I’ll leave you all to the photos and a huge congrats to the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex!

Danny Lawson PA St George Chapel — St. Georges Chapel Photo by Danny Lawson/PA

Reuters Harry and William — Photo by Reuters

Getty Images Meghan and mom — Photo by Getty Images

Reuters Meghan and twins — Photo by Reuters

PA Meghan and Charles aisle — Photo by PA

Reuters Meghan Harry alter — Photo by Reuters

Gety Images the kiss — Photo by Getty Images

Alexi Lubomirski Royal portraits — A Royal Portrait- Photo by Alexi Lubomirski

Stella — Photo by Steven Parsons/PA Wire

Royal Wedding: Updates on Meghan & Harry’s big day

Published on May 18, 2018May 18, 2018 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

It’s been a whirlwind these last few weeks leading up to what will be the biggest wedding of our time- Prince Harry and Meghan Markle!

I can’t tell you how excited I am- she’s lived in our city, is a talented actress, she’s half-black and beautiful, down to earth and essentially “one of us” in the sense that she has zero royal blood.

The guestlist includes Priyanka Chopra, Sir Elton John, George & Amal Clooney, the Spice Girls and Victoria Beckham will be bringing her husband. Others who will attend are her bestie Jessica Mulroney and her husband Ben and 3 children who’ve been named page boys and flower girl. Serena Williams, her Suits co-stars and designer Misha Nonoo.

As for her dress some speculate British designer Ralph & Russo as the brand designed Meghan’s stunning dress for the engagement photos. Another possibility is a final “bow out” for Christopher Bailey of Burberry. However when her mother arrived on Tuesday, she was carrying a Burberry garment bag- so maybe not. Stewart Parvin, one of the Queen’s dressers, could be in the running as well since he has been personally approved by the royal family. Some bets are on Alexander McQueen who designed Duchess Kate’s lovely gown but perhaps she will go with a Canadian designer? In any case, we are bursting with anticipation!

The most recent and unexpected update is that Meghan’s father will not be attending due to health concerns. I can’t imagine how devastating it must have been for her to find this out just days before her wedding. She made her first statement yesterday from Kensington Palace:

Statement

Some have voiced their disapproval of her careful choice in wording when she mentions “I have always cared for my father” but guys cut her some slack. She is a royal now and it has never been encouraged to openly express emotion and is likely considered inappropriate. If you don’t believe me, find clips of Princess Diana’s funeral- you won’t see a tear on her sons faces. We all know she’s devastated.

It was announced earlier today that she has asked her future Father-in Law His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales to accompany her down the aisle of the Quire of St. George’s Chapel.

Statement2

However, he will not be escorting her the entire way, she will walk most of the processional alone making royal history as she will be the first British royal to enter her ceremony alone. You go girl! She will be met by a clergy member at the doors and walk unaccompanied through the chapel with her bridesmaids, pages and officiant walking ahead of her. Once she reaches the Quire, Prince Charles will walk her towards Harry but will he will not be giving her away- she will walk the last few steps to Harry by herself.

The royal wedding is tomorrow starting at 7 a.m EST so if you are willing to sacrifice your Saturday sleep in sesh to tune in for this- you will be with me!

The Shocking Revelation in the bridal industry!

Published on May 3, 2018May 3, 2018 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

One subject amidst the bridal industry that I really feel people tiptoe around is that of lack of inclusion in wedding blogs and web/print publications. Maybe this isn’t something I am supposed to talk about but…here I am- and I’m not sorry.

It’s not to say there aren’t diverse publications that cater to multi-cultural audiences, it’s great but why separate publications? I grew up in a community where I was, for many years, the only bi-racial kid around and believe me when I tell you- it was hell. Different skin color, different body type, different hair, different facial features, plus a family of limited means. From public school, throughout high school it was just me and then I moved to Ottawa for university. It was then that I experienced being around people who looked like me, people I could relate too. I can’t describe to you the utter joy I felt living in a city where I didn’t feel like the literal “black sheep”.

When I first joined the wedding industry I made a point to get familiar with certain wedding publications and while I was enthralled (to say the least) with all the work that was showcased, yet I was shocked.

The stark reality is that there are publications that are for separate demographics and it can work…sort of. Of course, when you become a planner you must decide your niche market and how best to target them. But in doing so, it seems to create a distinct barrier.

I do realize I may be stirring the pot but here is the reality- I’ve had clients come up to me and tell me that have purchased certain magazines for inspiration but didn’t see themselves as any of the brides or models. They weren’t able to identify with what they were seeing and for them it was frustrating but that was their experience. So, I ask “Why don’t publications, magazines and blogs make a point to include a certain number of multi-ethnic shoots as features, editorials or submissions?”

But far beyond race, size and sexual orientation, recently the popular online blog Style Me Pretty pledged their dedication towards creating a space that focused on inclusion on their Instagram. While this was a huge step for them, some of the comments on their Instagram post even went to the point of highlighting other aspects of inclusion being overlooked still:

Special needs couples
Brides with natural hair/Afros
Budget friendly (pretty doesn’t have to be pricey)
Hiring people on their staff who understand diversity

Simply some food for thought. In a society as liberal as ours it would be nice to see more inclusion in the larger magazines and blogs. If brides cannot see themselves in the dresses, with the flowers then it’s a huge missed opportunity and the message these real brides take away is this: the world’s beauty standard women have fought so hard against hasn’t changed in the bridal industry. On the bright side, it is my sincere hope to start seeing a wider range of inclusion much sooner rather than later!

For advice, tools, tips and special offers click here

The Ultimate Guide to Sample Sales

Published on April 5, 2018April 3, 2018 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

A sample sale is not the same as a trunk show so let’s get that out of way! Trunk shows are special events where a bridal boutique will invite a designer (usually not located in the area) to show off their collection. It could be anywhere from a weekend or several days long. It’s a fantastic opportunity for brides to try on gowns from a visiting designer and appointments usually book up fast!

Samples sales however are first come, first serve for anyone who wants to get a designer dress at a large discount. The boutique allows you to try them on in the store and typically you don’t have a stylist who’s there assisting you. Sizes will range, and the dresses are usually well taken care of but you may not get something perfect since many women might be trying on the same dress. If it’s your first time trying on gowns it might not be a good idea to make a sample sale your first stop since you must decide to buy on the spot.

Tips

Wear nude underwear…preferably a thong and a good strapless bra. You want to have as realistic idea as you can when you try each dress on.
Know what your budget is. Usually the gowns will be organized by price range and this will help you stay within price range. Prices might be reduced from 20-80% but if you choose a newer style it may cost more.
Bring a friend but not your entire crew. Too many opinions and different tastes will become overwhelming and won’t help you.
Have an idea as to what style of dress you want. Keep in mind your body shape, areas you may or may not want to hide or accentuate. Knowing this in advance will help you sift through the dress styles you don’t want and save you time.
Be sure to research the designer to make sure the styles they may offer will suit what you are looking for.
Keep in mind that sample sale dresses can always be altered. Frays and lace can be trimmed and fixed up.
Bring a pair of shoes as close to the height you plan to wear on your wedding day. Hems can be shortened not lengthened.
Be aware of your timeline, while sample sale dresses are there and available, anything you may decide to order can take up to 8 months to be made and shipped
Have cash ready, unlike regular wedding gowns where a deposit is made and the rest settled later- sample sale dresses are expected to be paid for up front.
Have fun and be open to assorted styles of gowns. You may have your heart set on a certain style, but another might suit you just as well. I always say, never judge how a dress looks on the hanger, sometimes once you put it on it surprises you!

Ask your planner to keep an eye out on any sample sales in the area and to let you know so you can get prepped, primed and ready!

International bridal designers you may not know

Published on March 8, 2018March 6, 2018 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

In celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month we wanted to take a few minutes to recognize some incredible women who design some of the most stunning gowns in the weddings industry. Women are accomplishing wonderful things around the world every day and these ladies contribute to one of happiest moments in someone’s life by creating masterpieces for them to wear on the day they get married.

Alessandra Rinaudo- Italy

In the workshop in Saluzzo, Alessandra Rinaudo, watched the work of her grandmother and mother. There, she learned to appreciate the quality of a French lace, to identify the best Italian silk, to capture the value of embroidery to exalt the beauty and originality of a dress. In expanding the company she has been able to satisfy a variegated target creating six lines with a defined character: Nicole, Alessandra Rinaudo, Colet, Jolie, Romance, Aurora.

Lesia Gown Lilith Labella

Anna Campbell- Australia

From humble beginnings in Melbourne, Australia Anna Campbell‘s natural love for design, romance and all things that sparkle inspired the dream that is Anna Campbell. Inspired by the romantic decadence of times gone by, yet influenced by the relaxed, carefree elegance of modern weddings. From the beautiful collection of dresses that Anna designs each year, every incredible silk gown is completely customizable and unique to each bride.

Alyssa Chloe Ruby

Celestina Agostino- Paris

At age 30, Celestina Agostina returned to her initial passion which was fashion, sewing and creating beautiful wedding dresses for women. Learning her skills from a costume designer, Celestina Agostino went onto open her own couture house in Paris in 1993. her intuitive approach to design, that starts with an interview so that Celestina can get to know her client inside-out and create a gown that matches her personality and her personal world. Grounded in design expertise, her instinctive methods have paid off with an international clientele whether they want to look like a Jane Austen heroine, a Hollywood icon or a natural, boho bride.

Celestina Agostino 1 CELESTINA-AGOSTINO-R011

Ersa Atlier- Romania

Two sisters, Gabriela and Cristina Antonescu graduate The National school of Fine Arts in Bucharest, Romania. They meet Doina Levința, the most famous Romanian designer and scenographer. After spending more than 7 years in apprenticeship, they opened their own atelier in Bucharest, Romania. Soon after they start showcasing their craftsmanship and creativity internationally. In 2013, Ersa styles take America by storm, during the 4th Annual Bridal Show in Chicago.

124-carmilla 131_126-bridal-dress 132-lelia

Celia Kritharioti- Greece

Designer Celia Kritharioti is a globally distinguished designer and owner of the oldest Greek fashion house, which was established in Athens in 1906. Her talent, vision and aesthetics reflect on all her creations. Her mission is to present the best image possible of every woman who chooses Celia Kritharioti creation. Celia had the honor of designing the costumes for the Greek National Opera productions of “Romeo and Juliet” and “Swanlake” She presented her first ever show in Paris during Paris Fashion Week Haute Couture on January 25th 2017.

Celia Kritharioti Celia4