#Family – AVPEvents Blog

6 Perfect Proposal Ideas

Published on March 2, 2017 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

Not every guy out there has a creative mind so the act of proposing ends up being that much more petrifying! The good news is, whatever you decide to do, she will love it because she loves you so have confidence. In the meantime, we found 6 proposals that any girl would remember forever!

Create a custom jigsaw puzzle (or have one made) with a picture of you and the words “Marry me?” on quiet night when you’re spending time together, suggest the puzzle. Once you’ve both put it together, you can propose!

While your soon-to-be-fiance is asleep, slip the ring on her finger and finish with breakfast in bed.

In true Canadian fashion, before your lady leave for work, offer to heat up her car and scratch your proposal in the ice on the windshield and the ring on the dash board.

Pick a spot that is sentimental to you both (where you went on your first date) and have a hired photographer hiding somewhere close but discreetly taking pictures of your proposal as she says “yes!”.

Tie a ribbon from one spot in your home to another with notes of inside jokes or your relationship milestones. As she follows them, you will be at the end of the ribbon with the ring to put on her hand!

The night before a beach day, write a poem or your proposal on a piece of parchment paper. Roll it into a bottle with a cork and bury it in a well-marked spot in the sand where you will remember. Make sure she finds the bottle and be ready with the ring!

Top 10 Must See Wedding Movies

Published on November 24, 2016November 24, 2016 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

Nothing beats a romantic-comedy about a wedding, a wedding disaster you name it. We’ve listed our top 10 wedding movies of all time. See how many you’ve yet to see and have the girls over and break out the wine!

My Best Friend’s Wedding

As children, Julianne and Michael made a vow to marry one another if they were still single at 28. Four days before her birthday, Michael announces he’s getting married to 20 year old Kimberly. Suddenly realizing she’s in love with Michael, Julianne vows to halt the wedding no matter the cost- that is until she’s asked to be Maid of Honor…awkward much?

The Best Man

Committed bachelor Harper, just wrote a soon to be best selling novel that is for the most part based on the lives and loves of his group of tight-knit friends. With his entire crew to be present, Harper is to be the best man in his friend Lance’s wedding. To his dismay, an advance copy of the book ends up in the hands of an ex flame and he struggles to keep it under wraps- til he can’t.

Runaway Bride

Maggie Carpenter is no stranger to a wedding day since she’s left 3 men at the altar thus far. Ike Graham a reporter from the big city branded her “the runaway bride” and after his facts are questioned, he heads to her hometown to report on her upcoming fourth wedding- and to save his rep; til he falls for her.

The Wedding Planner

The wedding of Internet tycoon Fran Donelly is the biggest and most ostentatious of Mary’s wedding planning career. After being rescued from a near-fatal collision with a runaway dumpster by Steve Edison and spending the most enchanting evening of their lives together, Mary thinks she’s finally found a reason to believe in love. Until she realizes that cupid and her career are about to collide head-on.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding

The entire Portokalos family worries about Toula who’s still unmarried at 30 years old. she works at the Greek family restaurant Dancing Zorba’s, owned by her parents, Gus and Maria. After taking a job at her aunt’s travel agency, she falls in love with Ian Miller, a handsome teacher who is tall, and definitely not Greek. Toula isn’t sure which will be more upsetting to her father, that Ian is a foreigner or that he’s a vegetarian.

Wedding Crashers

Jeremy and John are divorce mediators who spend their free time crashing wedding receptions. So when Secretary of the Treasury William Cleary announces the wedding of his eldest daughter, they make it their mission to crash the high-profile event. But their game hits a bump in the road when John locks eyes with bridesmaid Claire taking them on a hilarious journey with a family that’s less than functional.

Monster In Law

Charlotte meets and falls for Dr. Kevin Fields, it’s a whirlwind romance. When Kevin pops the question so soon after they start dating, Charlotte happily accepts. She soon realizes that Kevin’s mom, Viola is anything but thrilled to have a new family member. Viola, a newscaster, has just lost her job and is feeling rather possessive of Kevin, so Charlotte is sheer competition.

27 Dresses

Forever bridesmaid Jane is the go-to gal whenever someone needs help with wedding plans since she can’t say no. So when Jane’s younger sister Tess hooks the man Jane is secretly in love with, Jane finds herself questioning her role as a wedding junkie for the first time. Meanwhile, a handsome reporter is on Jane’s unusual story.

Bride Wars

As little girls, best friends Liv and Emma started planning every detail of their future weddings, including choosing the same venue: New York’s famed Plaza Hotel. But when a clerical error causes a dilemma in wedding dates, a war begins that reveals and unravels Liv and Kate discover their inner demons which may end their lifelong friendship.

Bridesmaids

Annie is a single woman whose life is a hot mess, but when her lifelong best friend, Lillian, gets engaged, she has no choice but to serve as the maid of honor. Though loveless and almost broke, Annie, nevertheless, fights her way through the awkward and expensive rituals associated with her job as the bride’s go-to gal. That is, until things start to unravel and Annie takes everyone down with her.

AVPEvents on the worst marriage advice we’ve ever heard from real couples

Published on July 5, 2016 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

I thought this would be an interesting blog post because most of us would expect our friends and loved ones to give us some helpful marriage counsel. Recently I asked a handful of my married friends, what was the absolute worst marriage advice they ever got.

At first I was shocked at some of it but then I realized it shouldn’t be so surprising since we live in a society that hardly values the sanctity of marriage. Here is what some of them said:

“To walk away when things get tough…but we made vows for a reason!”– Mariah & LeRon

“I’ve had some rough go’s and hard times but have also had some great times, worst thing I was ever told was to suck it up for the kids.” Jake & Ashley

“My husband got the advice: Tell your wife her cooking is good, even when it isn’t! I don’t know how many stir fry and quiches my husband choked down before he told me he didn’t like them. So frustrating, I want to make meals we like and improve on them!”– Jennifer & Andrew

Poor guy!

“Have babies, they will solve your problems and make your marriage happier…shouldn’t the marriage be happy first?” Leigha & Greg

“Happy wife, happy life. What about my husbands needs?! I want him to talk to me and tell me what makes him happy or what bothers him.”– Megan & Dustin

“Don’t get fat…”– Sarah & Zach

Hopefully that person got a big 2000 piece of cake in the face!

“Everything is 50/50…no its 100/100! If you are only putting in half the work then expect a half-assed marriage.”– Erica & Scott

Here is our personal favorite:

“Don’t compromise most marriages end in divorce anyway.”– Pamela & Adam

Moral of the story: marriage is what you decide to make it, good or bad advice no one is in the relationship but you. It’s a good idea to keep as much of your marriage between just the two of you to ensure less people are involved in giving their opinion. While we appreciate our friends and family, we also want to remain keenly aware that their own experiences can bias the advice they give. Keep those who support your marriage close to you and remember to consider one another always.

A Few Pros and Cons to Fall Weddings

Published on October 7, 2015October 24, 2015 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

Typically, most couples opt to have their wedding in late spring or the summer months; however, fall weddings are growing in popularity as well. Here are some great reasons to tie the knot in fall and some reasons to consider not tying the know in fall!

Pro:

Outdoor fall weddings produce breathtaking photos. If you have chosen a garden or a large backyard or courtyard as your venue, you will be sure to capture the stunning colors of the changing leaves. A lovely background indeed that everyone will just love and relish!

Con:

For those who suffer from seasonal allergies (or year round allergies like yours truly), outdoor fall weddings can be a nightmare if you aren’t prepared. Whether you are the bride, a part of the bridal party or a guest, most of us are aware of our allergies so be sure to take the appropriate meds, carry eye drops and tissues.

Pro:

If you are the type that doesn’t like the idea of blazing heat and melting makeup that can result of choosing to have your wedding in July or August, behold the cooler temperatures of fall. This can be a blessing for our dear groom and groomsmen who are wearing suits, or any poor guy for that matter!

Con:

Fall not only brings cooler temperatures but also unpredictable weather in general. The week before your wedding the forecast may change from sunny and moderate temperatures to windy and rain. It’s difficult to prepare for since we can’t control the weather- unless we’ve opted to have the wedding indoors. However, if the plan was to take photos outside and the weather puts a damper on that, have a back-up plan in advance.

Pro:

There is nothing like getting to fully enjoy your summer with friends and family and not having to worry about traveling to 8 weddings in 2.5 months and spending shocking amounts of money for travel, wardrobe and gifts. Having a fall wedding leaves room for vacations, family time, relaxing time and much more.

Con:

You may not realize it at the time, but there are some important secular holidays from September to December. Labor Day and Yom Kippur are in September and Canadian Thanksgiving is in October. The American Thanksgiving falls at the end of November and Hanukkah in the beginning of December. While planning you may end up losing a few attendees depending on which weekend your wedding is on.

Unique Wedding Guest Book Ideas

Published on September 15, 2015October 24, 2015 by AVPEvents1 Comment

Every couple wants to have as many memories of their wedding day as they can. Everything from the vows to photos taken and speeches- sentimental or funny! One really great way to create a long lasting memory is to get innovative with your guest book! Here are a few ideas to help you get inspired!

This is a great idea my girlfriend came up with. We grew up in the same town, went to high school and university together but her wedding took place back home in the beautiful countryside. The bought paddles and asked their guests to sign them and later mounted them!

Another nice idea that I came across in my research works for those who are having a destination or beach wedding! Purchase some smooth stones from a craft store, or scope out the beach ahead of time if you can. Make sure you have enough for all your guests, have them sign it and display at home.

Couples who love pictures, here’s a great 2 in 1 guest book idea. Have a makeshift clothes line with the names and tables numbers for each guest to sit at but there’s a catch! They have to replace their seating card with a Polaroid selfie!

For those wine lovers out there…myself included, you will love this! Start saving your wine corks and accumulate the number you need to reach the number of your guests. As they arrive, have them sign a cork and take it home and put it up for all to see!

Photo credits: Little Tree Photography’ designedbybh.com; stylecaster.com; emmaline-bride.com

Do these 5 things and you will survive your wedding day!

Published on July 30, 2015August 29, 2015 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

Getting your hair done at 7am, makeup at 9:30am, nails at 10:45am…wait did you drink your coffee yet? Can’t forget to call the best man and make sure all the guys are up and ready; did someone pick up the bouquets yet? In fact, where is your phone, someone find your cell phone stat! As if you don’t have a wedding to get ready for!? Well during all of the chaos there are 5 things that you or your maid of honor need to make sure you do today…besides get married.

Now I’m not saying stuff your face full of carbs, end up bloated and not able to fit into your wedding dress, nor do I mean to devour a bunch of salty snacks to make you retain water. But since you are center of attention and will be hearing your name all day, it will be very easy to forget to eat. Now if you have an afternoon wedding, have some fruits, veggies and maybe some nuts after all of your appointments. These foods will sustain you, give you energy but won’t make you “over the top” full. Also be sure to have a water bottle kicking around. It might also be a good idea to ask your planner to have a food tray of some sort set up in the bridal suite so that after the ceremony and pictures you can all nibble here and there. It’s a long wait to dinner and we don’t need the bride or bridal party members fainting Scarlett O’Hara style.

Breathe

So many things are about to happen all at once, 5 people talking all at once, 3 cell phones going off, crying ring bearer and someone shut that dog up! Weddings are exciting for everyone but keep in mind there will be moments of pandemonium. You need to take a step back, or step outside your hotel room, lock yourself in the bathroom for a few minutes- and breathe. Slow deep breaths from your belly (the diaphragm) will ensure oxygen goes to every part of your body. When you breathe, your tummy should expand outward (like when you practiced your fake pregnant belly in front of the mirror- we know you did). Keeping calm will prevent dizzy spells, hot flashes and sweating…this is a good day!

Have a quiet moment with your parent(s)

Let’s face it, Dad walks you down the aisle, mom gives her tear jerker Oscar-winning speech, father daughter dance and that is pretty much all you will see of your parents. If you have a lot of guests, you and your partner will be working the room all night. It will be hard to steal a few minutes away with your parents since you will be in high demand. A good time for this might be 15 minutes before the ceremony, ask you MOH to clear the room so your parents can come in and impart their words of wisdom in private. This way they will be happy and not feel hurt that they didn’t get as much time with you on your big day as they had hoped.

Minimize checking your social media

If you can help it… Yes you want everyone who couldn’t make it or who lived out of country to be updated on who fought over the bouquet toss but this is your day…live it fully. To be constantly checking your phone or social media will be annoying to those who want your attention and distasteful to those who know nothing about social media i.e. your grandparents! Post everything the next day if it’s that important but if you have friends or family who have traveled far to come for your big day, that merits appreciation.

Bring extra shoes

This should be common sense but it can be something forgotten in all the hoopla and wedding day prep. The ceremony and perfect poising are now over which means the 4 inch heels you’ve had your feet jammed into all day and have been complimented on- are coming off! Not that we think a cute pair of running shoes will prompt you to runaway Julia Roberts style but if you truly want to enjoy your reception, fist pump to Rihanna, then flats are a must!

What to accomplish at your wedding rehearsal

Published on June 29, 2015June 29, 2015 by AVPEventsLeave a comment

Traditionally wedding rehearsals are held the night before the wedding itself and is a great way for the two families and bridal party to get acquainted if they don’t already know each other. Another benefit to rehearsals is that it can help to alleviate any nerves; and make everyone invited feel comfortable. Whether it’s formal or an informal setting, really depends on the style of the couple, but it’s part of the wedding celebration altogether. However there are some things that need to be accomplished at the rehearsal, here is what you need to make sure happens!

Mix and Mingle

If the rehearsal dinner is a larger affair, there should be some time for the families and bridal party to meet and socialize. As previously mentioned, if the families have not yet had the opportunity to get to know each other, the rehearsal dinner is a great occasion to do so. Similarly, it member of the bridal party are not from the same group of friends, it’s nice for them to bond as well. This is also important for the soon to be newlyweds to spend time with everyone since the wedding day/night will be exhausting.

The Toast

Wedding etiquette dictates that the host of the rehearsal dinner (usually the father of the groom or both parents) make a toast to the soon to be daughter in law and her family. Afterward, the groom then toasts to the hosts, guests and his bride. However it is quite common now that both the bride and groom decide to do the toast together.

The Gift Exchange

Now is a great time for the bride and groom to give the bridal party their gifts. This way it’s not in front of your entire guest list, you can have a few sentimental moments with them. As well, this is another opportune time if the bride and groom would like to give a little something to their parents or one another.

The Ceremony Rehearsal

It’s not just about the dinner and wine surprise! This is pretty much the entire point of having the “rehearsal” anything…to rehearse! So at this point, the bridal party should know what order they are walking down the aisle in, which translates to the order they are standing in at the altar. From there, this should also coincide with who they are paired with to walk back up the aisle with and in what order! As well, if there are any cultural traditions to be incorporated into the ceremony, everyone will need to know when that happens, who is involved and what they need to do and where they need to stand. You want the ceremony to be executed flawlessly so…rehearse! Until it’s perfect!

Don’t forget to have a great time, enjoy your dinner and company and then get some sleep since the day after is the BIG day!