You said Yes

Who doesn't love a great proposal story?

Boy meets girl. Courtship. Love. Congratulations!

You said YES, but now what? You tell the masses about your proposal, that's what!
Share your exciting and happy news with friends, family, co-workers, neighbours, and with whomever you want - flash that rock and your ear to ear smile all over the place! You deserve it, you're getting MARRIED!!

Most couples get engaged and right away they are changing their facebook status from In a Relationship to Engaged. They are tweeting about the proposal, and even possibly sending an announcement to the local paper. What did you do? Did you create a wedding website, or did you happen to have your proposal taped and then uploaded onto Youtube? How did you spread the news?

Once the news is spread, and the congrats and well wishes are graciously recieved, it's time to get into the nitty gritty of planning your wedding. But, we do stress (before you start to stress) that you take time to enjoy being engaged before you dive deep into the planning process. :)

So, what do we suggest are some of the first things you do after the engagement, but before the planning?

Brainstorm with your fiance the type of wedding you both want.

Will there be a theme? How do you want to express your own seperate personalities as well as your togetherness? For some couples it's through colours, unique details or the style of attire and venue.

To help you brainstorm, we suggest that you pick up a few magazines. Clip out pictures and create inspiration boards. This part of the planning is so much fun!

Next, hire a Wedding Coordinator. Planning a wedding takes lots of time, patience, money and compromise. You'll want to make sure that a dedicated professional is working for you on your special day to ensure that every little detail and personalized touch you planned comes to life.

Then of course, you have to set a budget. The budget will depend on who is paying for the wedding. Typically couples pay 1/3 with both sets of parents. Staying within budget is hard - do your best to not spend too much!

Lastly, do your research! Check out online blogs, websites and magazines for ideas and inspiration. Attend Bridal Shows, and ask newlywed friends for referrals. Ask questions, get a second opinion and try to meet or consider 2 to 3 vendors at a time.

We're so glad you said YES! and are on your way to planning your

Happily Ever After.

*even Wedding Planners sometimes need inspiration. Today's post was inspired by a blog post at www.weddingaces.com
* Updated, but originally posted in 2010

Leap Year Proposals

Yesterday was Leap Year, an extra day that only occurs once every 4 years. It's been said that on this day, women can propose to their men without judgement.

Old stories will tell you that if the man declines, he must buy you a gift, specifically gloves so that no one will know if you are or aren't engaged. For more stories, check out an article featured on The Huffington Post website.

What about you, what's your take on women proposing? Would you ever get down on bended knee if your man was taking too long to ask?

Rules of Engagement

Earlier last week I was featured in an article about what to wear to an Engagement Party. Written by Lisa Hannam and published in The Hamilton Spectator, this article gave a few tips for the Bride and her guests.

So what do you pair with your new diamond ring?? You can read the article here.

Happy New Year!

Welcome 2012!!
Let's hope that this year is a fabulous one for you!!


Are you getting married this year? 

We'd love to meet with you to discuss how we can work together on the most important day of your life. From a few hours to a full day, we have services to meet your specific needs and budget.

"Like" our Facebook Page for your chance to win Bride & Groom T-Shirts! All you have to do is like us and post your 2012 wedding date on the wall. Five winners will be chosen at random throughout the month of January. Thanks and good luck!


Did you get engaged last year? 

Congratulations! Once you have your date picked, don't wait too long to book Coordination services as most Brides book 12-14 months in advance. Seems like a long ways away to book a service right? Not really. We book up fast (just like most other vendors), so book sooner rather than later to save you any disappointment.


Whatever this year brings for you, we wish you much happiness, love and laughter.
xo

Popping the question

With December right around the corner, did you know that it's the most popular month to 'pop the question'?  Did you also know that more men are choosing to propose with a 'pop of colour'?

Gemstone engagement rings have gotten more popular lately - especially with the recent engagement of Prince William & Catherine Middleton. He gave her his late mother, Princess Diana's sapphire engagement ring.

Also sporting a bright beauty is Jessica Simpson - who got a ruby engagement ring.

     

Would you prefer a gemstone over a diamond?

Gemstones have different meanings and come in a variety of colours. He could choose your favourite colour, or match your birthstone.

Or, what about getting a 'so-called' used ring like the one William gave Kate? I don't believe in any of those superstitions about a ring being cursed. The jewlery wasn't the cause of a failed relationship, and I think if it can be reworn again and make someone else happy - then why not? Plus, pre-owned rings are better for the environment and your wallet.

Check out local pawn shops or online vendors for engagement rings. Look on sites like Kijiji, and Yes Bride to save on overhead costs, etc. The rule of spending '3 months' worth of your salary on a ring is phewy. You should spend what you can afford and choose a ring that you think best suits your mate. You can have her choose the ring, or select a few that she likes for guidance. Or, you can make the choice all on your own and she should love it no matter what because she loves you.

If you're 'popping the question' next month - all the best to you and your future Bride.

*Images from Google Images