wedding planner Banff Archives - Banff And Canmore Wedding Planner

Lakeside Wedding Inspiration

October 3, 2013 By Sharon Auld

by Sharon Auld

I am thrilled to be able to blog this Lakeside Wedding, styled shoot we did for the Calgary Bridal Guide! For this shoot, we were given colors and asked to design a shoot around the colors. The colors were greys and neutrals and a deep red. I couldn’t help but think how neutral colors work well in a natural setting, so I took inspiration from nature…rocks, twigs, and the beautiful setting of the rocky mountains! My mind was set on a lakeside wedding inspiration and I sought out ways to incorporate the color scheme into an outdoor, natural setting!

For this shoot I was teamed up with the very talented Rafal from One-Edition: Weddings by Rafal Andronowski Photography. We both did a little scouting around and agreed to shoot at either Lake Minnewanka or Two Jack Lake. On a windy, overcast spring day, my husband Don and I met up with Raf and decided to set up our little shoot on the picturesque shores of Two Jack Lake in Banff National Park. Raf took all the stunning photos you see here!

Lakeside wedding inspiration by Naturally Chic: photo by One Edition: Weddings by Rafal Andronowski.

One of the things I love best about the mountains are the numerous lakes, rivers and streams. I’ve always loved spending time near (and in) the water! For me, lakeside = summer! In fact, water and the mountains are a huge part of the mountain (and Canadian) culture and the perfect setting for this wedding inspiration!

Your wedding invitation is one of the first indications your guests have as to the type of wedding you will be hosting. For this shoot, I really wanted the invitation to reflect the “wedding” locale! For these invites, I used a real “driftwood” looking, wood veneer, some natural hemp twine and some small pebbles to reflect the lakeside setting!

Lake themed wood wedding invite from Naturally Chic | photo by One-Edition: Weddings by Rafal Andronowski

A little whimsy, for a casual wedding is always good, so I had a little fun with the reply card!

Lakeside wedding theme wedding reply card by Naturally Chic | One-Edition: Weddings by Rafal Andronowski

I love neutral colors because of how easily they can be incorporated into natural or rustic weddings, but a pop of color can really complement neutral tones! For this shoot we were teamed with the immensely talented Sarah Mayerson of Sarah Mayerson Design. Sarah’s designs are always so incredible and I couldn’t wait to see what she would do with the long piece of driftwood I brought her. I had really wanted a long, low design for the centerpiece so as not to detract from the beautiful mountain scenery and I thought that using the intense red color would provide the perfect pop of color.

As usual, Sarah’s centerpiece design was a show-stopper! The peonies, rununculus, succulents, pods and spanish moss are stunning in this beautiful arrangement!

Rustic driftwood wedding centerpiece from Sarah Mayerson Design

Naturally Chic lakeside wedding tablescape for Calgary Bridal Guide, with Sarah Mayerson Design and photos by One-Edition: Weddings by Rafal Andronowski Photography.

Peonies, rununculus, pods, succulents and spanish moss

For this shoot, I also included a small cake and favor table. I used rustic wood risers we made from reclaimed wood and filled the table with cake and sweets. One of my favorite DIY additions was the flag bunting. I made the bunting from canvas that I cut into small flags and hand-painted with stripes and dots for a lakeside feel. I also made large wood letters to represent the “couple’s” initials.

Cake and favor table by Naturally Chic | photo by One-Edition: Weddings by Rafal Andronowski Photography

Thanks for visiting! Please stop by again as we will be posting all the details of our tablescape! You can also check out the latest edition of the Calgary Bridal Guide, on newstands in and around the Calgary area for more photos from this shoot!

Wood veneer, lakeside wedding menu by Naturally Chic. Photo by One-Edition: Weddings by Rafal Andronowski Photography.

Lakeside-wedding-Two Jack Lake by Naturally Chic

lake-wedding-Two-Jack-Lake-Banff-National-Park

Happy Planning!

For more information about our planning and design services visit us at www.naturallychic.ca or contact us at hello@naturallychic.ca or call 1.888.679-9056.

Canada Day and the 2013 Alberta Floods: Reflections and Heroes

July 1, 2013 By Sharon Auld

by Sharon Auld

For many people affected by the recent flooding in Southern Alberta, it may not be the happiest of Canada Days. Our hearts are still with you as you work to rebuild your homes and lives. I hope you can find some happiness and inspiration on this Canada Day.

Albertans, and Canadians showed their true character admist devastation and the state of emergency. Albertans have led by example through their generosity of spirit, kindness, hard work, and their support for one another despite difficult circumstances. They knocked on the doors of their neighbours to offer support, they welcomed displaced neighbours into their homes and offered them food, shelter and community. They rallied together to stay strong, and to rebuild come “Hell or high water” ( to borrow the phrase from the Calgary Stampede). And the world took notice of our wonderful nation…truly the “True North, Strong and Free”. Though many may define greatness of a nation by its economic prowess, to me a great nation is defined by the character of its people. Perhaps, this will be the new definition, that the world will use to define “super power”.

Albertans and Canadians have shown a strong and caring character, with the resilience to rebuild. It’s so uplifting to find hope in the younger generation of Canadians. I personally was so inspired by the poster below, which Canmore youths were posting all around the town of Canmore after the flood. Throughout this time of recovery, there are so many examples of youth doing their part to help out with flood relief. There’s the story of a three year old BC boy who asked his mother if they could sell cookies to help people in the Calgary area. There are stories of youth emptying their piggy banks or holding lemonade stands to help with flood relief. These kids prove that you’re never too young to help and to lead by example. If our future is in the hands of our youngsters, then surely Canada will be okay.

Thank you to the public servants, soldiers and many, many volunteers who helped during this time!

Stay Strong and Canmore On poster made by Canmore youths | photo found on Facebook

Weddings, in a way, may seem trivial in the time of disaster, but in some ways, they are more important than ever. It’s the love for one another, that lead to loving people, caring communities and a great nation. The wedding community in Alberta, have not only rallied together so that weddings can still go ahead as planned, but also to offer their support to their fellow neighbours. While I am sure there are many untold stories of unsung heros during the flooding and recovery (and many who wanted to help but were unable to due to their own conditions), here are but a few wedding professionals who set wonderful examples for their communities:

Below, Rob Murray, dj for Class Act DJ Service and one of the hosts of 106.5 Mountain FM, spent countless hours posting social media updates on the flood. His accurate, up to the minute updates were indispensible for Bow Valley residents especially during the emergency and uncertainty.

Lauren Laming, fellow wedding planner, of Rocky Mountain Weddings relocated herself and stayed overnight at the shelter, with the animals at the local Bow Valley SPCA. She fed and watered the animals (as a volunteer) when SPCA staff were unable to make it there due to the widespread flooding.

Gerrard of Highland Executive Chauffer, along with his wife and young daughter, brought food and beverages to front line emergency workers during the flooding in Canmore.

Crista Lee Mitchell, from Crista Lee Photography waded through flood waters up to her knees to document the weddings of one of her couples that decided to go ahead with their wedding (elopement style) despite the flooding. Their story was picked nationally by the Huffington Post, the National Post and Global News (the story and now infamous photograph below went viral). Also a shout out to Patricia Compton, local Canmore marriage commissioner, who stood in for Banff marriage commissioner, Robin White. While Robin was unable to make the wedding due to road closures from Banff to Canmore, he made sure he brought the marriage licence to the local ROAM bus to take to the couple in time for them to get married!

Shanna Cremers of Pink Umbrella Designs, made this wonderful graphic (and flags) after being inspired by the local Canmore kids’ posters that were put up all around town. Shanna also wrote a very personal and touching post on the floods.

Julie Williams Photography for suppling thank you photo below.

We THANK YOU all!!!

Our Wedding Community Flood Heros

There are still countless others to mention, here are a few more:

Erika and Lanny Mann from Two Mann Studios, Canmore, helping to rebuild in Exshaw, Alberta. Meg from One Edition | Weddings by Rafal Andronowski Photography for her tireless work with the Evacuation Centre and Recovery Centre in Canmore.

From Calgary, Lesley Plumey from Magical Moments Event Planning, who helped arrange a supply convey to High River (which included several local Calgary and Canmore wedding professionals who pitched in). Gabe McClintock Photography who launched YYC memories,(which has almost two hundred photographers sign up) to offer wedding photography services to flood victims, Anna Michalska Photography who offered her wedding dress, and so many more.

Thank you to the understanding couples who’s weddings had to be relocated and thank you to the many wonderful couples offering support, including on of our very own former Naturally Chic bride, Cheryl Herman (love you Cheryl!) who offered up her wedding dresses!

An inspirational read for anyone this Canada Day is the Canmore Flood Heros Facebook page.

If you know of a “flood hero”, “like” the Canmore Flood Heros Facebook page or feel free to mention them in the comments here!

Happy Canada Day! Over the next coming months, as the headlines fade, please remember to continue to offer support to the individuals and communities affected by the flooding. The love and rebuilding continue!

PS I hope all the heroes mentioned here do not mind me sharing your story, but please let me know if you would rather not be mentioned.

Western Inspired Wedding Shoot – Part 2

June 7, 2011 By Sharon Auld

by Sharon Auld

My favorite weddings to work on are mountain and ranch wedding! Last week I posted about a Western Inspired Wedding Shoot photographed by Jesse Hisco of HIS.CO Photography and today we wanted to share a few more images from the shoot (too many beautiful photos not to share!). Jesse is quickly becoming known as a sought-after destination wedding photographer. Jesse is as creative as he is talented and his work was recently featured on one of the top wedding blogs, The Wedding Chicks. You can check out his work on The Wedding Chicks here.

The shoot took place on a snowy, winter day at the beautiful Rafter Six Ranch in Alberta, Canada (west of Calgary) and we providing the western inspired wood stationery and decor. We collaborated with a number of top wedding vendors in the area to work on the shoot, including the talented Leo of Willow Haven Flowers and BR Pirri of BRio Style.

Here’s a few more beautiful images:

Laura George wedding gown photo by HIS.CO Photography

winter bride and groom at Rafter Six Ranch by HIS.CO Photography

Western bride and groom at Rafter Six Ranch photo by Jesse Hisco Photography.

Wedding bouquet by Willow Haven Flowers

Western Tablescape

Wood table number Naturally Chic.

Western wedding inspired wood table menu, wood buttons and wood slice by Naturally Chic

Western wedding shoes | photo by Jesse Hisco Photography.

winter bride and groom – photo by Jesse Hisco Photography

Rafter Six Ranch wedding | Photo by Jesse Hisco Photography.

Wedding Creatives:

Photographer: Jesse Hisco
Stylist: BR Pirri
Floral Design: Willow Haven
Wedding Planner and western wood items & Stationery: Naturally Chic Designs
Makeup & Hair: Michelle Suffolk
Venue: Rafter 6 Ranch
Dress Designer: Laura George
Groom’s Attire: Henry Singer
Jewelry: Rudi Peet
Shoe Designer: Prada

Models: the beautiful Ashley O’Neil and Donnovan Lewis

Check out Part 1 of this shoot here.

For more information on planning your western or ranch wedding contact our wedding planning and design services at 1.888.679.0956 or hello@naturallychic.ca or via website at http://www.naturallychic.ca.

Happy Planning!

Get Creative with your Wedding Cake

March 12, 2011 By Sharon Auld

by Sharon Auld

I ‘m not talking about weird and wacky cakes that look like they are something straight out of Alice in Wonderland (but that would be okay too if it’s what you love). I just love the idea of choosing unique and interesting cakes for a wedding. Whether you are going with one large cake or several small cakes, choose flavors that you and your partner really love. You don’t have to stick to the list of flavors suggested by your baker either. Why not ask if they are willing to try something different and creative (of course you may want to sample it first)?

Looking for interesting cakes? Check out Canadian blogger, baking goddess and self confessed cake addict, Rosie at Sweetapolita. We found so many amazing cakes on the Sweetapolita site. Why not get creative with flavors? You can even choose a cake that matches your overall wedding concept!

If you love s’mores and you’re planning a camping style wedding…wouldn’t this S’mores cake be just incredible? It’s called Campfire Delight and it’s six layers of of rich Belgian chocolate malted and toasted marshmallows. Seriously mouth-watering right?

Campfire Delight Cake via Sweetapolita

Toasted Marshmallow layer via Sweetapolita

I haven’t yet had the pleasure of sampling this cake, but according to Sweetapolita, “this cake is possibly the most delicious cake I’ve ever made…6 layers of dark, moist chocolate cake sandwiching alternating rich and fluffy frosting: satiny Belgian chocolate malted frosting and creamy toasted-marshmallow vanilla frosting with bits of actual crispy marshmallow in every bite. Strangely, the finished cake is not really super sweet–it’s more rich, light, and creamy sweet…”. Wow!

How about this next cake? Ruffles are making a serious statement on wedding cakes right now (I’ll save that for another post). Check out this Rich and Ruffled Chocolate Celebration cake via Sweetapolita.

Ruffled Chocolate Cake via Sweetapolita

Don’t you just adore the sweet ruffles? Buttercream and chocolate cake anyone?

Chocolate ruffled cake via Sweetapolita

Perhaps you are a little more traditional? Vanilla doesn’t have to be boring! I saw this next cake on the Sweetapolita blog too and couldn’t help think how perfect it would be for an all white, winter wedding theme. And if you love vanilla, you will love this cake! The Whiteout Cake! Rosie says: “This cake… triple-layer moist vanilla cake filled and frosted with a unique, satiny white chocolate frosting…it whips up smooth, creamy, and satiny–the ultimate texture for frosting and decorating. I also love that the frosting has no icing (confectioners’) sugar, but rather a warm, thickened milk, cream, sugar, and flour mixture that is then whipped along with the butter, vanilla, and melted white chocolate. I was sure to use Belgian white chocolate for the ultimate taste”.

The Whiteout Cake via Sweetapolita

The Whiteout cake sliced via Sweetapolita

Or, how about a Lemon-Blueberry Layer Cake or a Lavender and Lemon cake?

Lemon-Blueberry Layer Cake via Sweetapolita

Lavender and Lemon Cake via Sweetapolita

For those that can’t decide on one flavor; choose them all! A cake bar would be in order complete with several different cake flavors and cupcakes. Imagine several different, delicious cakes and cupcakes on pretty cake stands…

Dessert bar via Amy Atlas Events

Yum!

30 Tips to Planning a Canadian Destination Wedding in Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Jasper – Summary

January 19, 2011 By Sharon Auld

That wraps up our 30 Tip series for Planning a Canadian Destination Wedding in Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Jasper. Hopefully, the tips have been helpful! Planning a destination wedding in the mountains can sometimes require a little extra work especially if you are planning from a great distance away and aren’t able to visit your vendors directly. It’s important, however, to make a connection with the local vendors, whether through a local wedding planner or via email, Skype or telephone, to get answers you need. If you can, rather than signing a contract site unseen, visit the destination at least once prior to your wedding. If this isn’t possible make sure you get recommendations from friends or other vendors you trust, and check out the tourist reviews or forums. As well, carefully review your contracts so you know exactly what is and isn’t included, and so there aren’t any surprises such as surcharges or late fees.

As we’ve outlined throughout our series there are some special considerations for a destination wedding in the mountains. Of course, getting to and from your destination wedding, accommodations and weather are all important factors. If you’ve missed some of our tips we’ve compiled the links to all 30 tips here for easy reference.

Of course, we will continue to have lots of tips for planning your dream wedding in the beautiful Rocky Mountains right here on our blog! If you have any questions at all regarding planning your Canadian Rocky Mountain wedding, feel free to contact Naturally Chic at 1.888.679.9056 or info@naturallychic.ca. Thanks again for stopping by and happy planning!

30 Tips to Planning a Canadian Rocky Mountain Destination Wedding in Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Jasper – Tip # 30

January 18, 2011 By Sharon Auld

Are you considering a Canadian Rocky Mountain destination wedding? The Rocky Mountains are one of the most beautiful places on earth for a destination wedding! The stunning, scenic backdrops are a huge draw for couples. There’s something serenely beautiful about a couple embracing in front of a crystal clear, lake or set against a rugged peak dressed in their wedding finest. It’s romantic, beautiful and the photos are not only incredible keepsakes, but are gorgeous works of art that you’ll proudly display throughout your home.

Tip #30 – Consider hiring a local photographer or a photographer who specializes in mountain weddings.

Banff wedding planner Naturally Chic shares tips about getting married in the Canadian Rocky Mountains | www.naturallychic.ca

Photo Credit: Carey Nash Photography

Local wedding photographers who specialize in mountain weddings, are a great resource for your wedding photographs. Not only do they know lots of great, outdoor photo locations, but they know which ones are easily accessible in a given time frame. There are so many incredible places for photos in the mountains, but you’ll want to take into consideration the time you have allotted for photos. If you have limited time before your wedding reception, you’ll want to make the best use of your time. You won’t want to spend your time contending with traffic or scouting for locations.

A wedding photographer who is experienced in the area, can steer you away from potential busy areas and suggest alternative locations if the ones you are wanting are all ready occupied or busy. They’ll also know what you can expect at the various locations. They’ll know if you can safely navigate the area in heels and if not, they’ll suggest you bring comfortable walking shoes. They’ll likely have experience with what position the sun will be in at a particular time of day, if the area is prone to windy conditions or other factors you may have to consider. In short, your time will be spent taking photos in gorgeous locations.

If the photos you’re wanting are a little more off the beaten path, it’s important to have a photographer who knows the area well and is comfortable in the outdoors. This is especially important if you are wanting photographs of an adventurous nature such as on a ski slope or hiking trail. There are many area photographers who are active in the outdoors and are comfortable on skis or in remote areas that are accessible only by helicopter.

Take the time to select a photographer who’s work you adore, but is also right for the type of wedding photos you have in mind. Meet with potential photographers and look at their portfolio. Ensure you are comfortable with their personality. Do they have work that is similar to the type of shots you want? Discuss with your photographer the types of shots you want and what you can expect at the various locations. You’ll know doubt have incredible photos to display for years to come!

You can also read more about tips for wedding photographs in the mountains here. Here are some photographs courtesy of some of our favorite photographers who are incredible mountain photographers, know the area well, are comfortable in the outdoors and willing do do mountain destination weddings:

Canmore wedding from Naturally Chic Wedding Planning & Styling | www.naturallychic.ca | Photo by Kim Payant Photography

Photo Credit: Kim Payant Photography

Canmore wedding from Naturally Chic Wedding Planning & Design | Photo Kim Payant Photography

Photo Credit: Kim Payant Photography

Canadian Rocky Mountain Destination Wedding by Naturally Chic Wedding Planning & Design | Photo by Darren Roberts Photography

Photo Credit: Darren Roberts Photography

In Banff / Canmore:

Kim Payant Photography

Two Mann Studios

Emerald Lake / Golden:

Lolo & Noa Photography

From Calgary and area:

Alan Maudie

Darren Roberts Photography

Heidrich Photography

T.LAW Photography

From Edmonton area:

Carey Nash Photography

Whistler area:

Crispin Cannon Photography

Contact Naturally Chic at hello@naturallychic.ca for more information about planning your Canadian Rocky Mountain wedding!

Happy Planning!

30 Tips to Planning a Canadian Destination Wedding in Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Jasper – Tip #29

January 13, 2011 By Sharon Auld

Tip # 29 – Eco-style Wedding Getaways

If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, why not take inspiration from the natural surroundings and make an earth-friendly entrance or getaway? While many urban couples opt for the traditional limousine, an eco-style getaway in the mountains is always appropriate. There are lots of transportation alternatives to a limo that are not only memorable and fun, but eco-friendly as well!

If you’re having a winter wedding in the mountains consider making your entrance to the ceremony in a horse-drawn sled. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not strap on your snowboard or skis for a quick getaway? A sled or toboggan would also be fun and make for some memorable wedding photos! In summer, what could be more romantic than being carried away in a horse-drawn carriage? If your ceremony will be taking place by a lake, a canoe or row boat would be incredibly romantic! For the adventurous couple, a raft or mountain bikes could be a great fit.

eco-friendly wedding transportation Naturally Chic

The idea is to choose a method of transportation that suits your style and personality. If you’re being married at the iconic Banff Springs Hotel and have a princess style ball gown, perhaps you’re better suited to the horse-drawn carriage rather than a bicycle. On the other hand, if you’re having a wedding at a mountain lodge in winter, skis are in order!

As well, keep the weather in mind, especially if you’re concerned about doing damage to your wedding dress. While enjoyable on a beautiful day, a canoe ride in the rain or a bike ride in muddy conditions might not be so romantic after all. Even in good conditions, dress appropriately for what you are planning. You may need to wear a thick shawl and boots! Whatever you decide, be flexible and have a backup plan for your ceremony or reception getaway.

You could always walk away hand-in-hand too! If you have to take an automobile, why not make it an eco-friendly hybrid or electric vehicle? There are lots of rental options now available. While you might think it doesn’t make much of a difference over short distances, imagine how much CO2 you could prevent from entering the atmosphere if all the hundreds of thousands of brides each took the small step of choosing eco-friendly alternatives? It’s our philosophy that small efforts can make a big impact overall.

couple walking away together – Naturally Chic

Contact Naturally Chic at 1.888.679.9056 at hello@naturallychic.ca.

30 Tips to a Planning a Canadian Rocky Mountain Destination Wedding in Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Jasper – Tip #20

December 29, 2010 By Sharon Auld

by Sharon Auld

Tip #20 – Leave plenty of time for your wedding photographs.

One of the main attractions of having a wedding in the Rocky Mountain areas of Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Jasper are the beautiful surroundings; snow capped mountain peaks, turquoise blue lakes, trees and alpine meadows. These areas are truly some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring places on the planet. A wedding in such incredible surroundings will undoubtedly provide lasting memories.

Photo of bride overlooking the Bow River by Wayne Simpson Photography

You’ve opted for a scenic mountain wedding with good reason; choosing a natural environment for your wedding photographs will provide beautiful, lifelong memories. The mountains are a paradise for photographers and you’ll want to ensure your photographer captures it all. Therefore, its important to leave plenty of time to have your photos taken after the ceremony.

Mountain towns are a popular tourist destination, especially in summer. If you’re getting married in the town of Banff, in particular, you’ll want to schedule in a little extra time to compensate for traffic and pedestrians if you’re wanting to take photos in more than one location. Holiday weekends are generally the busiest, but festivals and events can also yield extra traffic. Local photographers are a great resource as they usually know what events are taking place in town. They know the area well and can provide lots of good options for photo locations.

Large group shots and family photos are best taken at the ceremony site (no traveling required). After family photos are taken, couples often want to have photos taken around town or in the surrounding areas. This generally means a few cars are necessary for the couple, the wedding party, the photographer and other assistants. It can be difficult to keep an entourage of cars together with traffic lights and pedestrian crossings, so it’s a good idea to select a few locations in advance and ensure the driver of each car knows how to get to that location. If you’re wanting to take photos at several locations, you’ll definitely need to schedule in more time. A longer photo shoot also means more time for your guests to explore area, have a rest or get something to eat before your reception!

If you don’t mind breaking tradition, you may even want to consider taking photos with the wedding party before the actual ceremony. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to get all the shots and still have time to freshen up before the ceremony. Of course, this option isn’t for everyone! If it’s not, then its a good idea to have someone keep track of the time on your photo shoot. Your wedding planner’s assistant or photographer will usually handle this task. They’ll help keep you on schedule and ensure you arrive in time for your own reception! Be sure to leave plenty of time to freshen up prior to your reception especially in hot, windy or rainy conditions. You may even need to have your hair or makeup touched up.

Some other things to consider on your photo shoot:

Consider packing an extra pair of comfortable shoes to wear under your gown, especially if you are planning on getting a few shots in more remote locations.
Consider sending the bridal party back early from the photo shoot so they can enjoy your cocktail reception.
Bring along water and snacks to help keep you hydrated and your energy up.
Mist bouquets with water periodically.
Carry cell phones and check in with your wedding planner so they know when to expect you at the reception.
Carry umbrellas and warm blankets or clothing (just in case).

You will be so pleased you saved plenty of time to take your wedding photos in the beautiful, splendor of the rocky mountains!

Contact us at Naturally Chic 1.888.679.9056 or at info@naturallychic.ca for help with planning your Rocky Mountain wedding.

30 Tips for Planning a Canadian Rocky Mountain Destination Wedding in Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Jasper – Tip #11

December 16, 2010 By Sharon Auld

by Sharon Auld

CANADIAN ROCKY MOUNTAIN DESTINATION WEDDING

Tip #11 – Plan for the wind if you are having an outdoor wedding ceremony in the Rockies.

Anytime you are having an outdoor ceremony, it’s smart to consider the wind and take extra precautions. Many outdoor venues are affected by windy conditions, especially wedding ceremonies taking place on a rocky peak, at a lake or an open meadow. If you are having a tented reception, will your tent stand up to wind gusts? Whatever your situation, it’s wise to have an indoor back up plan if the winds get really strong. Even if you don’t particularly mind the wind, it’s important to consider your guests’ comfort.

Not only will some guests be uncomfortable if it’s really windy, but it can be difficult to hear the ceremony. You may want to have a microphone placed at the altar and have speakers set up for your ceremony so no one will miss your vows. Of course, if you feel a microphone stand at the altar is unsightly, your officiant can always wear a small lanier microphone and head set.

As far as attire, avoid light-weight fabrics like chiffons and silks in your dress and the bridesmaid dresses. Let your hairstylist know that you’ll be having an outdoor wedding and he or she can suggest styles that will look great, but stay in place. The men may even want to use a little extra hair product to keep stray hairs in place. You might even want to indicate to your guests in a printed wedding insert or on your wedding website, that your ceremony location tends to get windy and they should dress accordingly.

Also, take into consideration your ceremony decor if the site is known to get breezy. Keep your ceremony decor simple and avoid tall floral arrangements that may be tipsy in windy conditions; instead opt for low arrangements with a wide base. Arrangements in heavy garden urns also work well. Consider weighting down table cloths and take particular care with your marriage licence! A paperweight or a pretty rock work nicely to hold down papers and other documents.

One other consideration; avoid unity candles in favor of less risky rituals , such as a wine box/ love letters ceremony whenever you’re outdoors. An open flame in windy conditions (or whenever you are outdoors) is not a good idea!

With a little extra planning, you’ll hardly notice the wind. Of course, if you’re planning a helicopter wedding on a mountain peak, you’ll just have to make your peace with the wind!

canadian_rocky_mountain_DESTINATION_wedding

Helicopter wedding via Icefields Helicopter

Windy wedding photo credit: Jessica Oyanagi Photography

table cloth weights via Martha Stewart

If you are wanting to plan a heli-wedding or a Rocky Mountain wedding, contact us, Naturally Chic at 1.888.679.9056 (toll free in North America) or email us at hello@naturallychic.ca. Naturally Chic specializes in eco-chic, outdoor, mountain and adventure weddings.

Wedding Dilemmas

May 2, 2010 By Sharon Auld

Your Wedding Planner Ditches You for a Larger Wedding!

by Sharon Auld

So, you’ve hired a wedding planner, signed the contract months ago and now you are hearing for the first time that the wedding planner you chose to work with will no longer be handling your wedding. Instead, she has arranged to have an assistant take over for you (unfortunately this does happen). You hired her, not her assistant. What’s a bride to do?

Recently, I was reading one of my favorite wedding resources “The Bride’s Diplomacy Guide – Solutions to 150 of the Stickiest Dilemmas that Face a Bride-to-Be”, written by my favorite wedding author Sharon Naylor (www.sharonnaylor.net). Sharon is one of the most prolific wedding authors in the United States and has written dozens of wedding books. She is definitely considered an expert with all things related to weddings and I was quite intrigued when I came across this topic in the chapter: “Vendors with an Attitude”. In this chapter she talks about what to do when you encounter problems with vendors such as: creative differences, communication issues and negotiating with your vendor. Questions are posed and Sharon offers her expert opinion on the subject.

So, how does wedding expert Sharon Naylor suggest you handle this sticky situation? If I were to sum up the motto of the book, it would be that “a little diplomacy and grace go a long way in any wedding dilemma”. Sharon suggests that you communicate with your wedding planner and although its sometimes commonplace to have an assistant handle administrative tasks and other related duties in the early planning stages, the bride-to-be needs to state (without any attempts at manipulating or guilting the planner) and I am paraphrasing here: “While we are happy with the progress thus far, we are looking forward to working with you. When will you be working with us?”. Sharon suggests that if the planner tells you that your wedding has been assigned to the assistant, that you (the bride) have full right to turn down that arrangement as you interviewed and hired the planner.

To further, the response in the “Bride’s Diplomacy Guide”, Sharon points out that:

“If you signed on the dotted line to have her plan your wedding, she’s

in breach of contract and you should be able to get all of your money back.”

Of course, make sure you read the fine print in the contract to make sure that:

“…there’s nothing in there about agreeing to have an assistant handle your

wedding if the coordinator is unable to do so.”

Personally, I think this is all great advice! I also think it is important that the bride knows that not all wedding planners will have the aforementioned clause in their contract for the purpose of ditching a smaller wedding for a larger, more lucrative wedding. Some planners have adopted this clause in case of accident or injury to the planner. Not all planners are unscrupulous! In some larger wedding firms, it is quite common that you will be assigned an associate planner and not necessarily the company’s “celebrity planner”. In most cases, these companies are upfront and transparent; they will let you know who your planner will be before you sign on the dotted line.

It’s also a good idea to hire a planner that has been certified through a reputable association such as the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) or The Wedding Planner’s Institute of Canada (WPIC). These associations generally have a code of ethics that planners adhere to and usually encourage transparent communications with clients.

There’s nothing wrong with a bride asking that the contract be amended to reflect her wishes. If the company refuses to accommodate, then she is free to go elsewhere and is not locked into a contract she is unhappy with. Some companies will have set policies and will not change them, while others may be more flexible. There’s no harm in asking for what you want…and always read the fine print to avoid pre-wedding surprises. Bottom line? If you are not happy with a contract, don’t sign it. You have the freedom to work with whoever you want.

In honor of our new series, “Your Wedding Dilemmas” we are giving away a free copy of: “The Bride’s Diplomacy Guide – Solutions to 150 of the Stickiest Dilemmas that Face a Bride-to-Be” to one lucky bride. All you have to do is write a comment on this post and tell me you are a bride-to-be. Check back here to see who the lucky winner is. Check out Sharon Naylor’s site for many other fabulous wedding planning books. Feel free to send us your wedding dilemma questions and we’ll try and help. Happy Planning!

Kindly Note* Naturally Chic is not rendering legal advise in anyway. You are urged to contact professional legal representation if you are in need of legal advice.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.*