tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8457979179634321922024-03-13T20:41:53.562-04:00She Said Spectacular!Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.comBlogger92125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-50817849837450945462014-04-26T17:00:00.000-04:002014-04-28T22:54:43.793-04:00Outfits that Needed their Own Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg6GZH4T1Ua8_XZCBbNre1dnzmVWuEGZkbA4TJ7E6l-B2CYz4YQUSB0kv3C6V5bN_EmN0NR89SyBquaUi3S_7AEMwly0FwOaZ3-uxflMeRESRqfG1X7UROhKSSIgBZvZsKMLkyf3p2dXQ/s1600/_D4G5441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg6GZH4T1Ua8_XZCBbNre1dnzmVWuEGZkbA4TJ7E6l-B2CYz4YQUSB0kv3C6V5bN_EmN0NR89SyBquaUi3S_7AEMwly0FwOaZ3-uxflMeRESRqfG1X7UROhKSSIgBZvZsKMLkyf3p2dXQ/s1600/_D4G5441.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anjli, Parambir and I met about two years before they got married. They later told me they wanted to work with me from the minute they saw the purse I was carrying... ha! Little did I know at that fateful first meeting that these two (a doctor and a lawyer by day who are BOTH hard-core, die-hard, internet-ninja fashionistas in their spare time) would open my eyes to a whole new world of fashion. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Every element of their wedding was a carefully thought-out expression of them; both as individuals and as a couple. And perhaps nowhere was that more apparent than the energy than what went into what they would each wear that day! They, like a lot of Indian couples, flew to The Motherland to find their outfits. Unlike a lot of couples though, these two made a beeline to the atelier of the famed fashion designer <a href="http://www.taruntahiliani.com/">Tarun Tahiliani</a>. To their great delight, they were able to meet him in person and then spent the next few months working together to create their ensembles that best expressed their unique sartorial point of view.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What follows reads more like an editorial fashion shoot than a real wedding, but I suppose this is the natural outcome when the bride and groom are two of the most stylish people I've ever had the pleasure to work with: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjNdO1itnZ-6ORF9vI_XJH3xTypxwz73BKQwM5JBde4OmPAPXpNrZs1yPuGdhiKU_XH03OV7LPAt-JQC_wZLoXt6QOc2ndul5gNjYC2P8QcOc_7IXAJt0B2fANGNT4jSAtto4WzzvNI0/s1600/_D4G5255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjNdO1itnZ-6ORF9vI_XJH3xTypxwz73BKQwM5JBde4OmPAPXpNrZs1yPuGdhiKU_XH03OV7LPAt-JQC_wZLoXt6QOc2ndul5gNjYC2P8QcOc_7IXAJt0B2fANGNT4jSAtto4WzzvNI0/s1600/_D4G5255.jpg" height="446" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of the very first things Anjli purchased was this Alexander McQueen clutch and she carried it everywhere that day, carefully, like she was holding a fragile egg. That purse was never out of her sight or clutches! There is actually a pretty funny story about how she got this purse, but she might kill me if I were to tell it here to the world...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Next up, some details from Parambir's fashion statement. Gotta love a guy who is 'man' enough to wear pink on his wedding day!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-hXSCZde2upNv-8FSjrfW1F0zKdGzk6HtBx3BYXVTIWB5iClWvpVLGmg-74_rN1-L56xIXj43bQOfyCPYpQYOAb7uGuzb5csCdqmDLkObllU1Hh9Ul1BHK99QrbDeH2mDUoTuwbM6T8/s1600/_D4G5578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-hXSCZde2upNv-8FSjrfW1F0zKdGzk6HtBx3BYXVTIWB5iClWvpVLGmg-74_rN1-L56xIXj43bQOfyCPYpQYOAb7uGuzb5csCdqmDLkObllU1Hh9Ul1BHK99QrbDeH2mDUoTuwbM6T8/s1600/_D4G5578.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDmp2mP3PgciVIFxp_62k_DOmJyZz73AB-e0J1KnDKG5SKpH94Sq4Pm-oZOqDmkEn5aTpxURLnQxuGRXZuCrGwl-nhKKJ2n-dNRxzRTNc6re5F-Qx9WKHp-4VexS3_iPtlN7dQGORWns/s1600/_D4G5292.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDmp2mP3PgciVIFxp_62k_DOmJyZz73AB-e0J1KnDKG5SKpH94Sq4Pm-oZOqDmkEn5aTpxURLnQxuGRXZuCrGwl-nhKKJ2n-dNRxzRTNc6re5F-Qx9WKHp-4VexS3_iPtlN7dQGORWns/s1600/_D4G5292.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhThlFPF6GylOCnwxVZHfJl7IOEwjaFAhn7pWIWJqrcIRKfdiGTolxWKSG4iDNJW13ZNBxTbrxNuidDLc4fiKTb0S5aEXFvTaIQ47ANZBf4g0wIXLkVkpHUTCMuneE0-RLKqR5btbGzocU/s1600/_D4G5572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhThlFPF6GylOCnwxVZHfJl7IOEwjaFAhn7pWIWJqrcIRKfdiGTolxWKSG4iDNJW13ZNBxTbrxNuidDLc4fiKTb0S5aEXFvTaIQ47ANZBf4g0wIXLkVkpHUTCMuneE0-RLKqR5btbGzocU/s1600/_D4G5572.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4do1sRNtw4wTV_a7idXLS-Ui7RVmgNt4OYDhHQIkegBRQ44_wmwHG2-fPuj7j_ujD47UddWi_T9-6OaFSxVIBcXp36TDPR0D9KSGEbRiFo9rr5BRAaDUcoH51Blk5NBQRic1SaUv0Z74/s1600/_D4G5293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4do1sRNtw4wTV_a7idXLS-Ui7RVmgNt4OYDhHQIkegBRQ44_wmwHG2-fPuj7j_ujD47UddWi_T9-6OaFSxVIBcXp36TDPR0D9KSGEbRiFo9rr5BRAaDUcoH51Blk5NBQRic1SaUv0Z74/s1600/_D4G5293.jpg" height="446" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The following pictures are perfect examples of Bling Done Right: look at the detail in the lengha (skirt) -- there's sparkle, but just the right amount and in the right places. The necklace was a gift from Anjli's grandparents and was part of Chanel's Maharaja collection that year. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfkfe4eToZj-xewvA4VaQtLK8t5QifKQbypzBVyeX2UMDjjwUsUroB_Qhtd03gytsl9Rl1tgol8uY-RcB8YU-D3Nfe658du4pcKTGYJnYd31FW-kt93X_gA8paYL-Ld0E6aV9GS1MCnc/s1600/A&P1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfkfe4eToZj-xewvA4VaQtLK8t5QifKQbypzBVyeX2UMDjjwUsUroB_Qhtd03gytsl9Rl1tgol8uY-RcB8YU-D3Nfe658du4pcKTGYJnYd31FW-kt93X_gA8paYL-Ld0E6aV9GS1MCnc/s1600/A&P1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi38itNDZznLnjhFPQy_MqZc_MJD0SrWNbXKwuyVM6ncpk_byZtPXVmZLFf6-Vbfcz7oikcSZlROg0c0IJ9ioC390qo9kjZf_nePzpdFojfumy_h2BRCXKj2OyygGXyV9om1qlEomvulN8/s1600/_D4G5181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi38itNDZznLnjhFPQy_MqZc_MJD0SrWNbXKwuyVM6ncpk_byZtPXVmZLFf6-Vbfcz7oikcSZlROg0c0IJ9ioC390qo9kjZf_nePzpdFojfumy_h2BRCXKj2OyygGXyV9om1qlEomvulN8/s1600/_D4G5181.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Photographer <a href="http://www.studio2000.ca/">George Paatashvili of Studio 2000</a> was chosen because of his great eye for fashion, colour and composition. He had fun whisking Anjli and Parambir around the AGO for a private photoshoot before the ceremony:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGDTTqbs6i-XlhNVath6nB-yfl2D5r63n55BTvPG-RfcCYn-E3unc1SVYUSa6Y28YWvJxqVLppYX3V92SqzOnoCY7mNmLjKadIJjiDRAr4zdroL73mK0UtT70LdliImeX0IewFgqXRQbY/s1600/_D4G5614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGDTTqbs6i-XlhNVath6nB-yfl2D5r63n55BTvPG-RfcCYn-E3unc1SVYUSa6Y28YWvJxqVLppYX3V92SqzOnoCY7mNmLjKadIJjiDRAr4zdroL73mK0UtT70LdliImeX0IewFgqXRQbY/s1600/_D4G5614.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBRQUowZI9kHw757vpV41FuNeoGqn0WK2cfiHO9M5DVXKuRXHdQG0Yxc_uSxcwnqcNyS5iVqwHKWRYd5B1IcdPJ_sOWKyH7gfRC7wUqSoGot0yhz8GkkBbDvfyFdvANLNe9KPvL8sAY8/s1600/_D4G5490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBRQUowZI9kHw757vpV41FuNeoGqn0WK2cfiHO9M5DVXKuRXHdQG0Yxc_uSxcwnqcNyS5iVqwHKWRYd5B1IcdPJ_sOWKyH7gfRC7wUqSoGot0yhz8GkkBbDvfyFdvANLNe9KPvL8sAY8/s1600/_D4G5490.jpg" height="454" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORuP4beGz8utzcoNsYg66kUCjvcbYpybCnjBEDQLhO7AcDjn0ssGqhDYUzXickqtsGMyQsXy8K7-SgUyxjLG13XFYrqckFBoSxaXied56VW3mcOq-NN18xj9fUuH5KdqXf-W4HXRY1i4/s1600/_D4G5418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORuP4beGz8utzcoNsYg66kUCjvcbYpybCnjBEDQLhO7AcDjn0ssGqhDYUzXickqtsGMyQsXy8K7-SgUyxjLG13XFYrqckFBoSxaXied56VW3mcOq-NN18xj9fUuH5KdqXf-W4HXRY1i4/s1600/_D4G5418.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPMdsjZRBseyD9y0i3y4w6W1-OHP3845yXTG9dyTa4oSQ3-USfYdfdtZoFi684Fh2tJK39_e0M8x8A3IGd9SqeMuYD8dQ3gaBVCSDnWrBgW7qnrTniYNueyrv-LBGu6w_XlB1LhFJuAaE/s1600/_D4G5482.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPMdsjZRBseyD9y0i3y4w6W1-OHP3845yXTG9dyTa4oSQ3-USfYdfdtZoFi684Fh2tJK39_e0M8x8A3IGd9SqeMuYD8dQ3gaBVCSDnWrBgW7qnrTniYNueyrv-LBGu6w_XlB1LhFJuAaE/s1600/_D4G5482.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Sikh ceremony took place under the iconic staircase designed by starchitect Frank Gehry:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_ErprBdANzGrPkJM64ng4xaIC24aH7R4Jfg7-jK8Ac3buxuBuqv1MyDwXtbRDVu_GMPXmboQMZHIuMRP32R2ny995CWsgLW2LNbIcTXb8tA3ewYN4UXq22NbkD1p_jpXKPp8_bTRbe4/s1600/_D4G6045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_ErprBdANzGrPkJM64ng4xaIC24aH7R4Jfg7-jK8Ac3buxuBuqv1MyDwXtbRDVu_GMPXmboQMZHIuMRP32R2ny995CWsgLW2LNbIcTXb8tA3ewYN4UXq22NbkD1p_jpXKPp8_bTRbe4/s1600/_D4G6045.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After the ceremony, it was time to change into the reception outfits. Parambir switched it up and donned a Tom Ford tuxedo and shoes and Anjli put on another magnificent Tarun Tahiliani creation. As a side note, this is probably the first time I've seen a groom put as much (if not more) thought and effort into his wedding day attire... </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0dpwmc3k34_9vgnvqpiq7lphI_KnuPEdoRs503T28zZ2PtMGlP9nr0XuYtBiOLCxhvskuBQsJB6r6SEM5zZmBNIMs_Z1_jEyNNBB99MQaXOTikrJoq5XpHbsT5CB5d6Y-cBTuq2bZ_Js/s1600/_D4G6184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0dpwmc3k34_9vgnvqpiq7lphI_KnuPEdoRs503T28zZ2PtMGlP9nr0XuYtBiOLCxhvskuBQsJB6r6SEM5zZmBNIMs_Z1_jEyNNBB99MQaXOTikrJoq5XpHbsT5CB5d6Y-cBTuq2bZ_Js/s1600/_D4G6184.jpg" height="452" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3eu_Z-Yk6Gx1_4KeISpOwUpxIHyoSUxsgKSNEBiQ4-4byF0pcKpHOUJCWkS-33S4oKD3Mq_z7unHQu1l4tIIEqzcOaTbpaDDWSpQExkSRrBD-_cxNSiA6DjNLv_Tz7YckrXmRf6koes/s1600/_D4G6208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3eu_Z-Yk6Gx1_4KeISpOwUpxIHyoSUxsgKSNEBiQ4-4byF0pcKpHOUJCWkS-33S4oKD3Mq_z7unHQu1l4tIIEqzcOaTbpaDDWSpQExkSRrBD-_cxNSiA6DjNLv_Tz7YckrXmRf6koes/s1600/_D4G6208.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ01nWmSxxMrvNRDpw8d0XVcwBopJUI3R5NmSGAa-l2UJ9YMbfZ_9Setkh9aAmX0fV1BLtRd-D3O3Wwf746tWIPV2jB8twS8u6Nz6Yb4UVzvooVABXs3bm6TcI633jvQbnRqsR8BdmpMY/s1600/_D4G6198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ01nWmSxxMrvNRDpw8d0XVcwBopJUI3R5NmSGAa-l2UJ9YMbfZ_9Setkh9aAmX0fV1BLtRd-D3O3Wwf746tWIPV2jB8twS8u6Nz6Yb4UVzvooVABXs3bm6TcI633jvQbnRqsR8BdmpMY/s1600/_D4G6198.jpg" height="438" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnpF9dZOxF4IMMViCVUInAI0fvKWL3xPKZ1-GvZBkgWozCi0RlE_URcNF3_d8wbJyhPYQt7v-mb0c0mMvvCb3SGbISRX66-9dq7CgRko4TfHp_xCQalHBcCBWomqr-4usWMCAhITKBZio/s1600/_D4G5307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnpF9dZOxF4IMMViCVUInAI0fvKWL3xPKZ1-GvZBkgWozCi0RlE_URcNF3_d8wbJyhPYQt7v-mb0c0mMvvCb3SGbISRX66-9dq7CgRko4TfHp_xCQalHBcCBWomqr-4usWMCAhITKBZio/s1600/_D4G5307.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwXScwWM44Y4jRiTnCWOufwKlB_Z_qMlB8BvIZwd-Ytq-h2-mfrCBoPYP0XUdKrd_0UInsE3V1aoHL1RXl0djwpPyYOTQYtXgjqpUkGP19Qjqlvbz_kF2zRclkb1ndSvO-TSD3QSFse2Q/s1600/_D4G6213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwXScwWM44Y4jRiTnCWOufwKlB_Z_qMlB8BvIZwd-Ytq-h2-mfrCBoPYP0XUdKrd_0UInsE3V1aoHL1RXl0djwpPyYOTQYtXgjqpUkGP19Qjqlvbz_kF2zRclkb1ndSvO-TSD3QSFse2Q/s1600/_D4G6213.jpg" height="420" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am so grateful to our photographer, George, for capturing so many closeups of
the detail and extraordinary craftsmanship in Tarun Tahiliani's creations. And I'm even more grateful to Anjli and Parambir for introducing me to a designer I previously knew nothing about; up until then, I thought all Indian wedding fashion meant rhinestones galore and a "more is more" mentality. How cool that there is someone like Tarun who has broken away from all that and who is doing it so artfully.<br />
<br />
Not only that, you guys looked like rock stars on your wedding day. What a privilege to have been a part of it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-37364274281429074402013-10-26T16:28:00.003-04:002013-10-26T16:43:48.207-04:00Zahra & Don, Take Two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9hXQZRoA4Vib96fgsy-JnZ_LkcTpnAGdBU7I8v7EuLo_et9LrakJIM41h300laUZ3qsTEYod3gLt_eX8nhI5Vw8XzWhFfSIWk_xfgtHaat1PAT5ZSvFfcpR_bH6_e6GaTC7U1HRJRzM/s1600/JH_MG_0311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9hXQZRoA4Vib96fgsy-JnZ_LkcTpnAGdBU7I8v7EuLo_et9LrakJIM41h300laUZ3qsTEYod3gLt_eX8nhI5Vw8XzWhFfSIWk_xfgtHaat1PAT5ZSvFfcpR_bH6_e6GaTC7U1HRJRzM/s640/JH_MG_0311.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is the story of a boy and girl who fell in love, got engaged, planned their wedding and then abruptly called it off, three weeks before the big day. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Rather than their tale ending right there and then (as I believe, statistically, most do), I'm happy to report that they went away, worked on their relationship and made everything right. And 11 months later, we all picked up where we left off and had the most glorious day. Here's the recap; almost two-and-a-half years in the making...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqDDHnD3AAV6FKpoq-0iJuklfmEUwqnoZKMYWGxxnYDKoe48kpwTF1rrnFv9N5L_VTWK-6LposkqRxW85oHpfkN-dPV7veOEd8kw4po-JGu6QaUX1gk5FyilbZJP8sTe-gi7J3JFJOmlk/s1600/JH_MG_8486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqDDHnD3AAV6FKpoq-0iJuklfmEUwqnoZKMYWGxxnYDKoe48kpwTF1rrnFv9N5L_VTWK-6LposkqRxW85oHpfkN-dPV7veOEd8kw4po-JGu6QaUX1gk5FyilbZJP8sTe-gi7J3JFJOmlk/s640/JH_MG_8486.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The importance of having great chemistry between a couple goes without saying; but it's equally important to have it with your wedding planner too. It was true love between the three of us from our very first meeting and we quickly discovered that we shared the same zany sense of humour. So when we were discussing what to do with the invitations the second-time-round, Zahra lamented that "her first invitations were so perfect, she couldn't think of a thing she could improve," That's when I suggested that we do the <i>exact </i>same invitation, only with the old date crossed off and the new one 'written' in. We howled at the idea and then decided it was the perfect solution and, with the help of <a href="http://lovethedesign.com/">Christine Flynn from Love the Design</a>, we did just that! Letter pressed and all!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So now, the big (new) day was upon us and everything was how it should be: an amazing couple was finally prepared to proclaim to their friends, family and themselves that they were ready for the next part of their adventure. We gathered at the <a href="http://performance.rcmusic.ca/venues-telus-centre-performance-and-learning/rental-opportunities">Royal Conservatory of Music</a> and started it off with one of the most memorable and meaningful wedding ceremonies I have ever witnessed.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJP7k14Ud1POmIodPTIotMDivx1wRsnrJuSihJ4O30YxQnf3Kbiclyxqy0qstg2bx-fLnxWGlvUxGHsp1PlwoOxLojwYwvTZBZHLkHQAnIO24K5V9FOi32-wE2s6qTOsxHDd4MABWNVzM/s1600/JH_MG_0348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJP7k14Ud1POmIodPTIotMDivx1wRsnrJuSihJ4O30YxQnf3Kbiclyxqy0qstg2bx-fLnxWGlvUxGHsp1PlwoOxLojwYwvTZBZHLkHQAnIO24K5V9FOi32-wE2s6qTOsxHDd4MABWNVzM/s640/JH_MG_0348.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When we originally toured the venue together, Don mentioned that he had spent 10 years of his youth taking piano lessons there -- that's when I stopped, looked at them and said, "You need to play her down the aisle." And that's just what he did. He went home, dusted off the old piano and started practicing again. For over two years, we didn't tell ANYONE of our plans -- Zahra says that, to this day, it was the hardest secret she's ever kept. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was so top secret that the day before the wedding, we held two rehearsals! The first was the real one with just Z&D, their officiant, the photographer and videographer in attendance. To any future brides out there reading this, trust me: you'll always get the best coverage when your photographer and videographer know what's coming. Anyway, I digress. The other reason for the real rehearsal was for me to get the timing right: Don chose to play Bruno Mars' "Just the Way you Are" for Zahra and he wanted her to arrive at the top of the aisle at the exact moment where the lyrics say "And when I see your face, there's not a thing that I would change..." I had to send Zahra on her way so that she could be AT the right place in the room, IN the right place in the song for Don to look up and see her face for the first time on their wedding day. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Are you getting shivers yet?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4j8FnYSpN9E5VUmiDFBvX8Qd0nPXOm4wmNb1s1h4gGbD-THRuy4q_jCFFFzghhr0pzRts0CCEcViOrx6pCdxubuY4aS5Ttl910njsHXyYrxcSjLXu3OIGYot-WRLMLW1SdNunatyyPc/s1600/JH_MG_0354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4j8FnYSpN9E5VUmiDFBvX8Qd0nPXOm4wmNb1s1h4gGbD-THRuy4q_jCFFFzghhr0pzRts0CCEcViOrx6pCdxubuY4aS5Ttl910njsHXyYrxcSjLXu3OIGYot-WRLMLW1SdNunatyyPc/s640/JH_MG_0354.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So then we held the <i>fake</i> rehearsal, where we were joined by the wedding party and the families. I was surprised that only one person asked if the piano was going to stay in the room for the next day, to which I replied that "I wasn't able to get it out of the room (partially the truth), so we're just using it as a prop, since we're in the Royal Conservatory!" And he accepted this answer... </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So on the big day, the ceremony started, everyone came out as planned, to a cello and ukelele. The parents, the groomsmen, Don, the bridesmaids, the flower girls and then, only when they were all in place, did Don walk over to the piano, sit down, lift the lid and slowly start to play. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1reUgjwFcDo3Ul28MNqogPAC-KnSUV-dxdfmoRpmUvgkDxwq_geLOQaa5NJRmHkApOX06AavlMlvT0xYbP4AJfRnr-Hg-BTzzrAqqnvulptHCanqpjSs-mMFaWI3nvD4XY6lkjUCe7eY/s1600/JH_MG_0426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1reUgjwFcDo3Ul28MNqogPAC-KnSUV-dxdfmoRpmUvgkDxwq_geLOQaa5NJRmHkApOX06AavlMlvT0xYbP4AJfRnr-Hg-BTzzrAqqnvulptHCanqpjSs-mMFaWI3nvD4XY6lkjUCe7eY/s640/JH_MG_0426.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We sent Zahra on her way and she surprised me by doing something she hadn't done the day before in our rehearsal: she kept her head down all the way to the top of the aisle until the exact moment in the song where Don was to look up -- only today, they BOTH looked up at that time and the reaction was crazy! Everyone started crying -- <i>and I mean</i> <i>everyone</i> -- grown men, elegant women, crusty grandmothers, all doing the full-on Ugly Cry. If it hadn't been so darned moving, I probably would have been laughing my head off at the room full of bawling guests!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJDRqxh7S8IDKS71YbhGQX9DbQ1MVv8Iw6LYAVnQpZPYdXvvkllY-EQIhhK3Of1tFzimzBR3cchTY_bm_UKcaCPn95zKXNmNFaDXNw72au4GZz6u38_6Gzbf8frNGlRgiyBroekuM0Ng/s1600/Ugly+cry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJDRqxh7S8IDKS71YbhGQX9DbQ1MVv8Iw6LYAVnQpZPYdXvvkllY-EQIhhK3Of1tFzimzBR3cchTY_bm_UKcaCPn95zKXNmNFaDXNw72au4GZz6u38_6Gzbf8frNGlRgiyBroekuM0Ng/s640/Ugly+cry.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When Zahra reached the piano, she stood behind Don and placed her hand on his shoulder while he finished the song. As it got closer to the end, she joined him on the bench and then he smiled at her, the signal for her to reach down play the last, single note. It was monumental.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQwWWg10O73OBrk_pM4olUWHEidOg7e1nMtQq6l6Dqqdp26WLIXoBZLvqp_Ioco1n0Z5tCWO6wGPUgbVtZlQnf1GH6ihMrE2xFyxCcT2F9hHhxD2ae8hn5bqFAeoWlXyFhvnuGjttl64/s1600/TL_MG_0807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQwWWg10O73OBrk_pM4olUWHEidOg7e1nMtQq6l6Dqqdp26WLIXoBZLvqp_Ioco1n0Z5tCWO6wGPUgbVtZlQnf1GH6ihMrE2xFyxCcT2F9hHhxD2ae8hn5bqFAeoWlXyFhvnuGjttl64/s640/TL_MG_0807.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So this brings me to my take away lesson from this wedding: as the spectacle and production values associated with weddings these days seem to be spiraling out of control, I think this is the perfect illustration of how the simplest and most honest experiences often resonate the loudest. Now, don't be fooled into thinking this was any kind of low-budget, DIY wedding, because it certainly wasn't... but even though the decor was stunning and the food was delicious, what part of this wedding do you think every single guest will remember forever? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yup. That processional... and the best part? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It didn't cost a thing.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolQzGZph_MKRkCzBsf4kNooWSQVbwu2ROlFegSQnm-48gYk2LYCUL-kS-YaexY30mrf5m6osYJahvYjcVxv4MVYvDCY6AelO6MiVN8DoqKDyRM_BmMRsGLLfOtA174neAg9yOl4bXtuk/s1600/ML_MG_7890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolQzGZph_MKRkCzBsf4kNooWSQVbwu2ROlFegSQnm-48gYk2LYCUL-kS-YaexY30mrf5m6osYJahvYjcVxv4MVYvDCY6AelO6MiVN8DoqKDyRM_BmMRsGLLfOtA174neAg9yOl4bXtuk/s640/ML_MG_7890.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Alas, I'll stop now before you get even more emotionally invested in this tale, as this was a SpectacularSpectacular, after all, and there are still many more great things to share from Zahra and Don's wedding with you all... albeit not quite as sentimentally charged as what I just described above!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4g4UXyGuRo2FmoNlW7vD4-Xni13M6lj7AXt1HiVQoCeea3oRIMCTUcBxIWqJAA4m8DCZwpdQkezyXPVUKKkZRJVqHK2EfiFN3NwxQvPIwAw38m0eTp-vbOHzMIbIKtTro08Ihttulv8A/s1600/JH_MG_0979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4g4UXyGuRo2FmoNlW7vD4-Xni13M6lj7AXt1HiVQoCeea3oRIMCTUcBxIWqJAA4m8DCZwpdQkezyXPVUKKkZRJVqHK2EfiFN3NwxQvPIwAw38m0eTp-vbOHzMIbIKtTro08Ihttulv8A/s640/JH_MG_0979.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikFMTQmjknNhyrJfOc3CZYSycO8bOEWNAe_t762A2IDS-rA8k-JL02GKaAH3e9TRR0pL0ZN3yGEGxYQMf7q832RqIeJHBdhwXQ7AoXRg36iO15yrddnB-Tbvk9plmmdDDgCRIjWwS_7Nw/s1600/JH_MG_1308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikFMTQmjknNhyrJfOc3CZYSycO8bOEWNAe_t762A2IDS-rA8k-JL02GKaAH3e9TRR0pL0ZN3yGEGxYQMf7q832RqIeJHBdhwXQ7AoXRg36iO15yrddnB-Tbvk9plmmdDDgCRIjWwS_7Nw/s640/JH_MG_1308.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Design-wise, Lidia Tacconelli and I were thrilled when Zahra told us she loved yellow... it's such a happy, joyous colour and I think it's a shame that more people don't use it. Anyway, Lidia seemingly purchased every single yellow garden rose in the province to pull of this simple but effective design; the consistent and graphic repetition of black, white and hits of yellow worked beautifully in the stark, modern room at the Conservatory. Some of the roses were so big, people thought they were peonies!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gkxocRbreUVX7T1MQkacwW2FSYNk3fOho1KXC2e7yaWzkxS5vYvTwIZMfwMdNZPPMa8R9DRr8HUwWFEYcWa3TaWhzzSOZqsSWTdcA3hYRCf_GpCHGtsfA98f7IHOuC92T5qFV1mZuCI/s1600/JH_MG_0174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gkxocRbreUVX7T1MQkacwW2FSYNk3fOho1KXC2e7yaWzkxS5vYvTwIZMfwMdNZPPMa8R9DRr8HUwWFEYcWa3TaWhzzSOZqsSWTdcA3hYRCf_GpCHGtsfA98f7IHOuC92T5qFV1mZuCI/s640/JH_MG_0174.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5d_1YMKCxfsUPkOQSGfDeIb4TMPGqrUZ0jNiT3QrEV-q1bUSWHEpPBAEF1jbOgDNRV2quDnrPcXuwbDoeg9pmY09SI-mhknez3_OZObbp9jPaa0w7qWiy8MG-eZ3BwozwDc4nkZh57YY/s1600/JH_MG_0302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5d_1YMKCxfsUPkOQSGfDeIb4TMPGqrUZ0jNiT3QrEV-q1bUSWHEpPBAEF1jbOgDNRV2quDnrPcXuwbDoeg9pmY09SI-mhknez3_OZObbp9jPaa0w7qWiy8MG-eZ3BwozwDc4nkZh57YY/s640/JH_MG_0302.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.bobbetteandbelle.com/">Bobbette and Belle</a> made the cake and incorporated our flowers into the design -- look at that sugar flower! I would have sworn Lidia had plucked it right off one of the tables...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0PPiYi4fL_YzhjmC_FrZcAxoe7KbpqM8ORlMxHzzGN2ikk5RvLtGp73TYGQDR4CqZHHbffWOwmAa4OxYW656NWezL1ndkxDg97dDIljJJEtLisszrcEoVKH7t0tOEPC4VXoYGeuTpCk/s1600/JH_MG_0330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0PPiYi4fL_YzhjmC_FrZcAxoe7KbpqM8ORlMxHzzGN2ikk5RvLtGp73TYGQDR4CqZHHbffWOwmAa4OxYW656NWezL1ndkxDg97dDIljJJEtLisszrcEoVKH7t0tOEPC4VXoYGeuTpCk/s640/JH_MG_0330.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Finally, I'll leave you with one of my absolute favourite design features: we arranged the chairs at the tables like the keys on a piano, as an homage to Don and his performance earlier in the day... I don't think one single guest noticed this small detail, but I can tell you that it delighted Zahra, Don and myself to no end! Partners in crime, from beginning to a sort-of-end, to back in cahoots and then, finally, to happily ever after. It was an honour to share every up and down (but mostly up) moment with you both...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What was it I was saying about chemistry? Just look at these two...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmmqWu0bugeHz0HaPksQJoEy_TKeQNpIIAch5u3g7qKr0KPMmsUr2GDftZz_LCC3eU1S5_1_EwhkZPFZwbVRc7iU6gjDaN4Rmd0AwL7Z1WAnUeUI6-qsv0HY-ySNgRQ__eD7YvARxBKUw/s1600/Z%2526D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmmqWu0bugeHz0HaPksQJoEy_TKeQNpIIAch5u3g7qKr0KPMmsUr2GDftZz_LCC3eU1S5_1_EwhkZPFZwbVRc7iU6gjDaN4Rmd0AwL7Z1WAnUeUI6-qsv0HY-ySNgRQ__eD7YvARxBKUw/s640/Z%2526D.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Special thanks to our friend <a href="http://www.ikonica.ca/">Jackson</a> -- you were there to document our entire journey together: from the engagement session, to the disappointment, the eventual perfect day, the trash-the-dress session, and now, little baby Story's portraits. Thank you!</span></div>
Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-84056995173092144562013-09-02T12:32:00.000-04:002013-09-02T12:32:02.853-04:00Ashley and Scott in WedLuxe Magazine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfPqAoA4lsHREyQ4BTGGBDoCx9y1hj22PuAH-vfsobPhyphenhyphenuZBlQx3UrmETsHNyB4a2KwHKOqtLDN4JmSeMTxc4nnl5o1lWnCqNTyfW3hz3g-Hi9Ob7K_asi1pHHLOvEbmQfkG9kfg-nec/s1600/HC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfPqAoA4lsHREyQ4BTGGBDoCx9y1hj22PuAH-vfsobPhyphenhyphenuZBlQx3UrmETsHNyB4a2KwHKOqtLDN4JmSeMTxc4nnl5o1lWnCqNTyfW3hz3g-Hi9Ob7K_asi1pHHLOvEbmQfkG9kfg-nec/s640/HC.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Seeing our weddings appear in this gorgeous, glossy magazine never gets old!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The latest issue of <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/">WedLuxe</a> is on newsstands now, so please check out our feature of Ashley and Scott's spectacular wedding last summer on the bluffs overlooking Lake Ontario. Or, click <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/index.cfm?pagePath=Features_Gallery/Real_life_Weddings/Summer/Fall_2013/Ashley_Scott&id=50894#/site/wedluxe/assets/images/ashley_0000_ashleyscott-110.jpg">on this link to read the online version</a> -- this one was a beauty!</div>
<br />
<br />Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-17509615062615700172013-04-22T11:16:00.001-04:002013-04-22T11:44:20.740-04:00The Most Perfect Day for a Wedding<div style="text-align: justify;">
Some couples have all the luck when it comes to weather on their wedding day, but I have to say, this one might have been the most glorious day ever. All the elements fell into place: a picturesque church, a one-of-a-kind-tent at their cottage, a stunning bride and one of the most rockin' parties I have ever witnessed.
You can read about how we built the tent for this couple in the previous post, but in the meantime, take a look at how <a href="http://www.cloudninecreative.com/">Bruce Patterson and his team at Cloud Nine Creative</a> captured the magic that happened that day. Keep an eye out for the charming church, perched on a cliff and the late afternoon light that shone on Patrick and Fernanda as they were boating back from their ceremony to the cottage -- it was almost otherworldly... Turn on your speakers and enjoy!</div>
<br />
<br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/64344164?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe> <p><a href="http://vimeo.com/64344164">Fernanda + Patrick Highlights</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/c9c">Cloud Nine Creative</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-26201232682875893722013-04-21T19:03:00.001-04:002013-04-28T11:27:54.169-04:00The Story of a Little Floating Tent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFts5q6AKmZ1YXtwXfAD-vMP9Q64C4Y0RSJ4vSgvhGMgXO63iycBicJOmnzJSd_BWSS18gcgOHpBhtu-2ckpP78vEq3oph6QE4K_YZqRFGzB7ZtsWlzFsnXcTJgXQFLLntJ44JceOj-S4/s1600/FP-0581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFts5q6AKmZ1YXtwXfAD-vMP9Q64C4Y0RSJ4vSgvhGMgXO63iycBicJOmnzJSd_BWSS18gcgOHpBhtu-2ckpP78vEq3oph6QE4K_YZqRFGzB7ZtsWlzFsnXcTJgXQFLLntJ44JceOj-S4/s640/FP-0581.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Once upon a time, we had a client with very steep property in cottage country... when the tent guys went to measure, they pointed to the water and joked, "we should just put the tent out there." The client, being something of a man of vision, jumped at the idea. And thus begun our odyssey to figure out how to not only make this happen, but to make this exacting man happy.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The first plan was to build the deck (or in non-event-speak: the tent floor) on top of scaffold, which would lie on the lake bottom. This presented us with all kinds of issues, the first being obtaining permits from the Department of Oceans and Fisheries in case we disturbed the natural habitat of any creatures who live below amongst the rocks and gunk. The second was that we found out that the lake bottom wasn't very solid at all; it turned out that our client had had to drive-pile almost 45-feet down to find bedrock when he erected his boat house. That seemed a little excessive for our One Night Affair... and so our quest continued.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Next, we looked at renting barges, tying them up together and putting a tent up on them... but the main challenge was that barges are in high demand in the summer months, being the workhorses that carry equipment and materials to properties under construction -- and, as we discovered, no barge operator was willing to give up three barges for the more than three weeks we'd need them. Not to mention that barges aren't very pretty. Yes, I said it: they're generally scuffed up, different and/or multi-coloured, with stuff all over their decks and sit very high above the water. Our aesthetically-minded client didn't care for this option at all.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That was when his landscaper suggested contacting the people that manufacture floating docks, and that's just what <a href="http://www.advancedtent.com/">Dennis Large of Advanced Tent</a> did. Experts were consulted (it turned out there were none -- as no one had ever tried anything like this before) engineers were called in, measurements and calculations were made, budgets were approved and finally --finally!-- the big day arrived. And I'm not referring to the wedding day... It was Let's Build a Tent on Water Day! The first to arrive? The pontoons: over 70 were brought in on a barge one sunny day, about a month before the wedding itself. The next few photos document how Dennis and his boys brought the vision to life:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivFhNOQUJTpofR-TzBe2U5bvs5TZP8p-d2YjDq-T7N64DzFK-iXQqTRmteSbTCBfqYIWFTrmaSkh6ogrNQBlmoopqGUdsYZV6ee9kUxayoo6iBjQoMdT8eHcIQYhrjy_kCZV7Fb4Zu2WY/s1600/Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivFhNOQUJTpofR-TzBe2U5bvs5TZP8p-d2YjDq-T7N64DzFK-iXQqTRmteSbTCBfqYIWFTrmaSkh6ogrNQBlmoopqGUdsYZV6ee9kUxayoo6iBjQoMdT8eHcIQYhrjy_kCZV7Fb4Zu2WY/s640/Image.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwWF1QI1K9bbgrhyphenhyphenSNRZMmvrcbVjR1TI-FpRZwn9MSsa-KtfiVtlisUO4TnhFBBXhaPL1w0IuiuOoE4V10LLauzYiC0Kt9p8LpnUskVgwMq3K-qVzZ41hVQ7F-7UvuRJCoKiRzaFtXHw/s1600/Image+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwWF1QI1K9bbgrhyphenhyphenSNRZMmvrcbVjR1TI-FpRZwn9MSsa-KtfiVtlisUO4TnhFBBXhaPL1w0IuiuOoE4V10LLauzYiC0Kt9p8LpnUskVgwMq3K-qVzZ41hVQ7F-7UvuRJCoKiRzaFtXHw/s640/Image+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7a91VLBXsW5vV7o-faIcKLnOD9V003bYSJ2T_LF7Kh6Ugi8xsjXCdsyuffdXqhdYbirzGIW13cnnoKDZ633R2gag4hPkj111rGRwxrV-Zqv7vgfEaVHRUVlHBTHwloJL6kDXg92510l8/s1600/Image+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7a91VLBXsW5vV7o-faIcKLnOD9V003bYSJ2T_LF7Kh6Ugi8xsjXCdsyuffdXqhdYbirzGIW13cnnoKDZ633R2gag4hPkj111rGRwxrV-Zqv7vgfEaVHRUVlHBTHwloJL6kDXg92510l8/s640/Image+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here are some fun stats about what went into it to make it float:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- 9 x 2000 pound weights went into the water to anchor the structure</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- 75 pontoons: 18" in diameter and 24' in length</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- 360 2 x 8 x 16's </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- 900 1/2" bolts</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- 160 sheets of 3/4" plywood</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- Dozens of trips to the closest hardware store, 30 minutes away </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
- Several involuntary 'slips' into the water</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And so the boys went forth, connecting the pontoons together to slowly start building our floating palace. You can see it coming together now:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2wf3xxV6KRSf-CQpD9UE1tbEltv8vzqshWxA04-MAAlmgd0hosPujjr0vBo4dsPxtk4mWxi4bzZ6BBKL7AcIyH3RAlxfV7wUJZuSBLbsULIf4CwDovi6v-EOPSNBSdOwg4DxJFSYD_zQ/s1600/IMG_2481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2wf3xxV6KRSf-CQpD9UE1tbEltv8vzqshWxA04-MAAlmgd0hosPujjr0vBo4dsPxtk4mWxi4bzZ6BBKL7AcIyH3RAlxfV7wUJZuSBLbsULIf4CwDovi6v-EOPSNBSdOwg4DxJFSYD_zQ/s640/IMG_2481.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGzoYFHsocLWe_x5IuLfGwQBqgMkUzetAJ-DKE_m4F7C8TSqvDOv_6vr4_IGa7c0vnkp4RBA3bbCQRhDBemfw9MthrJfmWHPKWuyGEov1BwxkAm6JiJKX-HkLKwKxnIUiWG6tkrGxXQc/s1600/IMG_2488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGzoYFHsocLWe_x5IuLfGwQBqgMkUzetAJ-DKE_m4F7C8TSqvDOv_6vr4_IGa7c0vnkp4RBA3bbCQRhDBemfw9MthrJfmWHPKWuyGEov1BwxkAm6JiJKX-HkLKwKxnIUiWG6tkrGxXQc/s640/IMG_2488.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The finished deck measured 50' x 100' -- a full 5000 square feet of 'blank canvas' for <a href="http://www.williamfulghum.com/">Event Designer Bill Fulghum</a> to conjure up his magic and bring the all-white vision our bride requested to reality.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So now it was time to build the floor and then erect the structure itself... </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdhyphenhyphenqezMAB4eUsP3C7f3bqFtVgosWNI3U0qH8e49wMGGUTEdhuczhJxhmwivZKe2GMIl5FNhHMzwa5fh75I279Vl5CWeTKS9mMtN8t1Snkse3eEvwCbpNLEa-CUtCLATltTdz6IMEpiGQ/s1600/IMG_2513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdhyphenhyphenqezMAB4eUsP3C7f3bqFtVgosWNI3U0qH8e49wMGGUTEdhuczhJxhmwivZKe2GMIl5FNhHMzwa5fh75I279Vl5CWeTKS9mMtN8t1Snkse3eEvwCbpNLEa-CUtCLATltTdz6IMEpiGQ/s640/IMG_2513.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQyIf9M9Wzshup9HLMRIDW9VIzFZdCkufcNVLCyMFj1yy0mJ2sN5PXFV_COavMj1SxJBUiJ4FYHNIRJa83X_Rxp-8k_qalGPS0OLm46Zib4su2sCNRMnZ9_c8KMeIU-yQ9j5FFMEg1zQ/s1600/IMG_2512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQyIf9M9Wzshup9HLMRIDW9VIzFZdCkufcNVLCyMFj1yy0mJ2sN5PXFV_COavMj1SxJBUiJ4FYHNIRJa83X_Rxp-8k_qalGPS0OLm46Zib4su2sCNRMnZ9_c8KMeIU-yQ9j5FFMEg1zQ/s640/IMG_2512.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Next came the rigging, draping and carpet. For the record, white carpet in tents drive me crazy -- every single person has to put little blue disposable booties on once the plastic cover comes off; it makes setting up tables, chairs, plates, glassware, decor, bar ware etc. so much more work! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The next picture is one I've already posted, but here it is in new context:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWOFEKdr1Dy0ONYmO4taqH5AK1uoaSGBDEvjpZT4-homL_O1_qYww-fXzQq5F4RSUC58v5QPmb0LAjhdB0MATAgYUv0TbWlMvsPJ-rwyTaN0bpiD_SAAF3EN_-rqiyG6JrRBorw8MfJ9g/s1600/IMG_2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWOFEKdr1Dy0ONYmO4taqH5AK1uoaSGBDEvjpZT4-homL_O1_qYww-fXzQq5F4RSUC58v5QPmb0LAjhdB0MATAgYUv0TbWlMvsPJ-rwyTaN0bpiD_SAAF3EN_-rqiyG6JrRBorw8MfJ9g/s640/IMG_2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This was the view from the tent as the bathroom trailer came into the bay; you can see where we are in the progress of things: the drape is up, the railings are on, the wiring for lighting & sound and plexi shelves has been completed and the plush, white carpet has been laid. In case you <a href="http://shesaidspectacular.blogspot.ca/2012/08/a-three-hour-tour-three-hour-tour.html">missed my previous blog post</a> about floating toilets, there was simply no place to put a 32' unit on this property. Plus, I figured if the tent is going to float, we might as well do the same with the bathrooms!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So that brings us to the big day itself. This was our first time working with the internationally-celebrated photographer <a href="http://www.jerryghionis.com/">Jerry Ghionis</a> and his wife Melissa and they captured the following beautiful photos:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSO3hB4-PT65w6xJq2VkFRBnb27p-Gtz31px8RG0zFFzRG7MeWhG6EGc_icvt5Mx4SkrnFAVO3bkjBNNEOJPPNW69gSQVltcpJcu_N6SEnA-5DbS4aJ45wItwEWmMZXo_DYUUmNua3MZc/s1600/FP-0599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSO3hB4-PT65w6xJq2VkFRBnb27p-Gtz31px8RG0zFFzRG7MeWhG6EGc_icvt5Mx4SkrnFAVO3bkjBNNEOJPPNW69gSQVltcpJcu_N6SEnA-5DbS4aJ45wItwEWmMZXo_DYUUmNua3MZc/s640/FP-0599.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2X2QVmU2OMicueIlK8fC8De5hoampIrws8ygZD-SJIFCcl-pzOWsSnYRkTKwJxGydpjQalt81xx5XQn4lkMEq4AdFr0KVlSVIE_1UY5oA8qbCUFJ-QmneYTK_IRHLNII1o27yYqdNqZs/s1600/FP-0602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2X2QVmU2OMicueIlK8fC8De5hoampIrws8ygZD-SJIFCcl-pzOWsSnYRkTKwJxGydpjQalt81xx5XQn4lkMEq4AdFr0KVlSVIE_1UY5oA8qbCUFJ-QmneYTK_IRHLNII1o27yYqdNqZs/s640/FP-0602.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our bride had been inspired by another all-white, tented wedding we'd done a few years before that appeared in the <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/index.cfm?id=13661">Summer/Fall 2009 issue of WedLuxe magazine (click here to see it)</a>. No matter what chandelier/lighting alternatives we showed her, we couldn't sway her from the floating plexi shelves, hovering above the tables, laden with candles!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhza70qcZDCk_c0rOhB95xV1Jcfnn6w71tgXBKBcKgydx5I-1W4jRukVwSt_MZxuwxmrKidduo4PRhhNSD1gF4izD2OKlFXq3gKcT-mfc2ZktD2p1GXbNuoI8j2wTh3lrfZdSuUzozIxAg/s1600/FP-0621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhza70qcZDCk_c0rOhB95xV1Jcfnn6w71tgXBKBcKgydx5I-1W4jRukVwSt_MZxuwxmrKidduo4PRhhNSD1gF4izD2OKlFXq3gKcT-mfc2ZktD2p1GXbNuoI8j2wTh3lrfZdSuUzozIxAg/s640/FP-0621.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here's a fun shot, showing one of the plexi shelves with the hundreds of glass balls that hung over the dance floor in the background. They alternated with candles or phalaenopsis orchids inside.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxAwzzvqIJ4msHs8dUDeSC_bOzHGu-sISVs8CpTPGhBrKctUxTv0zwoqv059tlZ4A24es6jz95Oma-04pP_KVSartaTeRcxZyH4fTi30_NgpAGncf_3ReI4DGAfPcdRkKVeHeASpv84cI/s1600/FP-0591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxAwzzvqIJ4msHs8dUDeSC_bOzHGu-sISVs8CpTPGhBrKctUxTv0zwoqv059tlZ4A24es6jz95Oma-04pP_KVSartaTeRcxZyH4fTi30_NgpAGncf_3ReI4DGAfPcdRkKVeHeASpv84cI/s640/FP-0591.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kxlYDMoQhbEQ45wCgfkbJ0-RChO1qOJtO9wWUVvQmmCCSo7Bj1PYqNnq-Ena2cvluQqg48KnfLJl9bNEELaf1HH2AxYWNOH0szKm_5bgNndwp6xzXSum9g8aE9m4hH3ANOY1IKOqrKg/s1600/FP-0598.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kxlYDMoQhbEQ45wCgfkbJ0-RChO1qOJtO9wWUVvQmmCCSo7Bj1PYqNnq-Ena2cvluQqg48KnfLJl9bNEELaf1HH2AxYWNOH0szKm_5bgNndwp6xzXSum9g8aE9m4hH3ANOY1IKOqrKg/s640/FP-0598.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
These are some floral details. Every woman got a single orchid at her place setting and the troughs running down the centres of the tables alternated: two rows had roses bordered with ferns and one had roses with baby's breath -- a flower that, apparently, has great symbolism in our bride's native Brazil. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsCTTwVODTro3F88nbcqnCwAddMFheEy9sLkT_2qk6xp2BMK1f3NwAkReiJvkX-xgRWPvoND6R3DXoalNSFufIpu5B4Yw8zBY-UEwC7VayLniDRqSeVaEAbFqyzKmP3edGj7AjBMeIvJ4/s1600/FP1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsCTTwVODTro3F88nbcqnCwAddMFheEy9sLkT_2qk6xp2BMK1f3NwAkReiJvkX-xgRWPvoND6R3DXoalNSFufIpu5B4Yw8zBY-UEwC7VayLniDRqSeVaEAbFqyzKmP3edGj7AjBMeIvJ4/s640/FP1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgolUvxjV6Gmlx6wtnpmYPFKcHRRs-avG-ZBcBnCWHs1aInZqzLNVmDxvuX4uQOxKeShs2HhU4tyxHhzQTsxkX_MoTysHdRHJBr_S8PX-KPTAoNKCkRFWacTDHNJ3M69yMVw1QV12nhkxw/s1600/FP-0967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgolUvxjV6Gmlx6wtnpmYPFKcHRRs-avG-ZBcBnCWHs1aInZqzLNVmDxvuX4uQOxKeShs2HhU4tyxHhzQTsxkX_MoTysHdRHJBr_S8PX-KPTAoNKCkRFWacTDHNJ3M69yMVw1QV12nhkxw/s640/FP-0967.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally -- the Grande Finale -- fireworks out on the lake, with a great view of our Little Floating Tent from the water.<br />
<br />
Hard to believe all this effort goes into one (albeit perfect) night, isn't it? But
that's what we do and, quite honestly, challenges like this are what
float our boats. Or in this case, float our tents... Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-88057774449131468472013-03-19T22:06:00.001-04:002013-03-19T22:06:53.370-04:00Gabi's Getting Married!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE_mPqCGzXIgyckkT-5pqQ6n3X30PGx3zxP-3fFUS2n5Cm7W9b6jIkwm8iB8F7m_AKPxcoBIsWf0paEQlkFw2SKYBOq1Q9cbdB_7CMnuEZx17CPjXjF_Dv-9iu1vcpbSLjJJ18Nw1ojr4/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE_mPqCGzXIgyckkT-5pqQ6n3X30PGx3zxP-3fFUS2n5Cm7W9b6jIkwm8iB8F7m_AKPxcoBIsWf0paEQlkFw2SKYBOq1Q9cbdB_7CMnuEZx17CPjXjF_Dv-9iu1vcpbSLjJJ18Nw1ojr4/s640/photo.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wheeeee! Our very own Gabi and her Mr. Right got engaged earlier this month on a ski hill in Telluride, Colorado! I see a great opportunity for us to follow along as The Planner becomes The Bride and she plans her own wedding for August of 2014... Watch this space... this is going to be fun!</div>
Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-68797952764689109602013-02-23T21:09:00.000-05:002013-02-23T21:41:02.805-05:00A Night at The Museum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlS2g1nGZDIEzCwyYoacOycLx37NUv8Og66gxCiBLpu5If7scFaBN8sH3R-HCgIkvq7Y6UFEFxMioiFGKfI5W8jDfrSSuQ01yXEDmdNfAanyn6YVRabGTKEakNdlukioPAptvFfQktMM/s1600/SG1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlS2g1nGZDIEzCwyYoacOycLx37NUv8Og66gxCiBLpu5If7scFaBN8sH3R-HCgIkvq7Y6UFEFxMioiFGKfI5W8jDfrSSuQ01yXEDmdNfAanyn6YVRabGTKEakNdlukioPAptvFfQktMM/s640/SG1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another oldie but goodie -- it's <i>beyond</i> high time for me to share some of the glorious details from Shelby and Graeme's wedding, held at the Royal Ontario Museum (affectionately known as The ROM) one beautiful day in June...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Regrettably, this tends to be a habit with me: we are so busy planning and executing events all the time that sometimes it requires real focus to go back in time and write about previous events. It's kind of like: "been there, done that." However, in the case of a wedding like this one, it's a crime for me not to have shared some of these photos before now and for that, dear readers, I apologize profusely. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLX3RCm2TUtbfKyDEHCmb-Ug2VkGgjy20CyxG2EHhUKS7D-XYjfChWdsltUFTn3-5twQZvAKXToC6gk-53HoYeam8cI8VOlhT3eCOmRTGOCMlnL0cG4HtsGRwheneBjsiE7csauFB1lmM/s1600/SG2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLX3RCm2TUtbfKyDEHCmb-Ug2VkGgjy20CyxG2EHhUKS7D-XYjfChWdsltUFTn3-5twQZvAKXToC6gk-53HoYeam8cI8VOlhT3eCOmRTGOCMlnL0cG4HtsGRwheneBjsiE7csauFB1lmM/s640/SG2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I remember that we did things a little differently at this wedding and held cocktail hour BEFORE the ceremony. The problem with getting old is that I can't recall why we did it -- in that there were practical and logistical reasons -- but as I write this, it's not coming to me!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There's the stunning orchid arrangement in the middle of the Rotunda, that you will be able to get a better sense of the scale of it in the next photo. It literally <i>towered</i> above everyone's heads.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUX4PNKml2LlvLxhelPBCr00moKuBSVM6UW3QD36mBkT7Ijjp1wAKxfDuiOH7nOQ-vjJGKwIt9TpQDYgiVAGaKRcB9tkIw4l3E_wMsrESU3hGqaUhvOYJ2r0yk3S7eqz8wAWnqchzSBSA/s1600/SG3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUX4PNKml2LlvLxhelPBCr00moKuBSVM6UW3QD36mBkT7Ijjp1wAKxfDuiOH7nOQ-vjJGKwIt9TpQDYgiVAGaKRcB9tkIw4l3E_wMsrESU3hGqaUhvOYJ2r0yk3S7eqz8wAWnqchzSBSA/s640/SG3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love, love LOVE this photo -- it shows just how massive this arrangement was. And in a room that is this majestic, you really need something with true presence to even begin to compete with the spectacular setting.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEvYP_MdZZ9fu4deI8d1AoLqdVtDDW_0lXeCumCU7_1FPvjedJ4RfnyVEfGqM_W_OLGte-dFbIpFnr92WbAeJm-G-gIwdcCgnm011514gGzczhYNwhsncxMrtv3p9BeMp_S5pdi5NWios/s1600/SG4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEvYP_MdZZ9fu4deI8d1AoLqdVtDDW_0lXeCumCU7_1FPvjedJ4RfnyVEfGqM_W_OLGte-dFbIpFnr92WbAeJm-G-gIwdcCgnm011514gGzczhYNwhsncxMrtv3p9BeMp_S5pdi5NWios/s640/SG4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<br />
Now we move chronologically with guests upstairs to the Bronfman Gallery, where the all-white ceremony took place in this clean, loft-like space. The aisle was lined with poufs of white hydrangea, as were the windowsills above. All leading down to the stunning chuppah in the centre of the room...<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggSHEDvnQJI2eqp9N4-YOhjaGkK7cIwfGlsO1xPUDTMJNTZPbNz5z9HyAvaw5KC45e7vNkaRcZeqbHVrNV35TXjArjav9n_lC9hUB5jxTXzk_uK4phoAAYpQT7jKdAyCLjZ6CYZg4-LQI/s1600/SG5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggSHEDvnQJI2eqp9N4-YOhjaGkK7cIwfGlsO1xPUDTMJNTZPbNz5z9HyAvaw5KC45e7vNkaRcZeqbHVrNV35TXjArjav9n_lC9hUB5jxTXzk_uK4phoAAYpQT7jKdAyCLjZ6CYZg4-LQI/s640/SG5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The four legs were pavéed with perfect, cream roses and finished with garlands of white dendrobium orchids. The canopy is something that deserves to have it's moment in the spotlight: Shelby's father had it made when her older sister got married and so far, only the two girls have their names and dates embroidered on a side each. There are two blank sides left, just waiting for Shelby's other sister and brother to join them up there when they each get married one day... </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One other thing to mention is that, while it might not look like it, the chuppah was actually in the middle of the room and there was a whole other set of chairs mirroring what you can see in this photo. We had to maximize every inch of space in order to accommodate the 250 guests.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt59Gc5B8GkN6NCaviH7hxENGkY43IGlMf_D90gbwsDLiCOC1KjHWU3Q6jrwZP3gNMYVLBS7WshvwysnKJIsvprywA0W0Pjx35JDGTsmdzY7nYjQRUCKS2XftRZK2h8oF8JGbB7VcWcUY/s1600/SG6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt59Gc5B8GkN6NCaviH7hxENGkY43IGlMf_D90gbwsDLiCOC1KjHWU3Q6jrwZP3gNMYVLBS7WshvwysnKJIsvprywA0W0Pjx35JDGTsmdzY7nYjQRUCKS2XftRZK2h8oF8JGbB7VcWcUY/s640/SG6.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A close up of one of the legs of the chuppah. Each one of those roses was chosen for it's consistent size, condition and colouration, treated and then glued into place by members of the <a href="http://www.fiorifloral.com/">FIORI</a> team. It took <i>hours</i> to complete. Each leg had four sides, and multiply that by 4 legs... I think you get my drift: there were a lot of roses!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQgSETIE063rtonlnj7oNJwiMt-uHwkqfI-P5bXfDrcjdkUAmd-Wo4MBgMCBbIFr-iszWb7qhfw97Ej-grLhu57fx_RBfeg180HQbHwaZgcVmtPbeiGl8f5yFe8BG92zDGu_vSEpg6kI/s1600/SG10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQgSETIE063rtonlnj7oNJwiMt-uHwkqfI-P5bXfDrcjdkUAmd-Wo4MBgMCBbIFr-iszWb7qhfw97Ej-grLhu57fx_RBfeg180HQbHwaZgcVmtPbeiGl8f5yFe8BG92zDGu_vSEpg6kI/s640/SG10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So now, the ceremony is done. Shelby and Graeme are happily married and it's time to go back downstairs to the Currelly Gallery, where dinner and dancing await... In this photo, you can see the beautiful drapes we had custom made for the occasion: instead of typical, sheer fabric, these were sewn from 2 colours of gorgeous peau de soie. I doubt many guests noticed the quality of the fabric enveloping them in the room, but it was simply another small detail that went a long way to 'finishing' the environment.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQDZpOmO5SZMBh3Z52DDJK07KVL9_OUmqYT3bzhAKBcqDC9AU3qfZVJxvNyI75UN3Cqs7kXJlq3iIj7twfvft_kY-XvG3AvADhTJygannjpGUGbVmsy5FmmGW_1SCtarFhCNf42Vyu_c/s1600/SG8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQDZpOmO5SZMBh3Z52DDJK07KVL9_OUmqYT3bzhAKBcqDC9AU3qfZVJxvNyI75UN3Cqs7kXJlq3iIj7twfvft_kY-XvG3AvADhTJygannjpGUGbVmsy5FmmGW_1SCtarFhCNf42Vyu_c/s640/SG8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's a close up of the head table. The regal gold cutlery sat aside beaded gold chargers and votive candles that the team at FIORI had gold-leafed by hand because we couldn't find anything we liked better! Even the menus were printed with raised, gold thermography lettering.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCGeeLjnwtqeYzgMeza36N6ZbWIs962ns87OhL9C2ujC_j3TR516bfU4Fit73nqx8_sm-hu1cObNxUBuCNihftumAMBQmHtqb7Ipz_OY1-lWjc8kWhexyfpGvZNvYcdBQbczyUJtGRd04/s1600/SG11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCGeeLjnwtqeYzgMeza36N6ZbWIs962ns87OhL9C2ujC_j3TR516bfU4Fit73nqx8_sm-hu1cObNxUBuCNihftumAMBQmHtqb7Ipz_OY1-lWjc8kWhexyfpGvZNvYcdBQbczyUJtGRd04/s640/SG11.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is a rather abstract shot, looking head-on at the front of the head table. You can see the phaleonopsis orchids spilling over the front (casting such wonderful, animated shadows), the roses and the hydrangea behind them and then the custom-built wall in the background, behind the table.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbiDo1ZSbKEmZHiI5n4JlpjloOJQnArVnn7XCG_lOP6oAmJgk98GcMy7sxd4Va6V6U8egc2du0czYRKINTvdCM_3YcPbrIzR4fjuPmUV3ITBN9zriWDnhCR7LYtMK1o4TX2slgKm0T3Nc/s1600/SG12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbiDo1ZSbKEmZHiI5n4JlpjloOJQnArVnn7XCG_lOP6oAmJgk98GcMy7sxd4Va6V6U8egc2du0czYRKINTvdCM_3YcPbrIzR4fjuPmUV3ITBN9zriWDnhCR7LYtMK1o4TX2slgKm0T3Nc/s640/SG12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And a cleaner view of said wall...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKNkidqL3QNYdnFC2JTddGI6xA87j3jwfl99SNvy_j2MGcEIf7n3TXipQEaE7hQ33w-Y9k5wWOf-umA5dOvbC0AUOAe1l2RpC33PK3hR695msgj9VFiAnarixCAHpDEY8hTUkDjFFV3_U/s1600/SG9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKNkidqL3QNYdnFC2JTddGI6xA87j3jwfl99SNvy_j2MGcEIf7n3TXipQEaE7hQ33w-Y9k5wWOf-umA5dOvbC0AUOAe1l2RpC33PK3hR695msgj9VFiAnarixCAHpDEY8hTUkDjFFV3_U/s640/SG9.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This wedding was the first time event designers <a href="http://williamfulghum.com/">Bill Fulghum of William Fulghum Design Associates</a> and <a href="http://www.fiorifloral.com/">Lidia Tacconelli of FIORI</a> had ever collaborated. When the original florist dropped out for personal reasons, Bill and I looked at each other and knew that there was only ONE person who had the team, infrastructure and organizational abilities to handle this job, and that was Lidia. The main reason is the museum itself: it is a fully-functioning MUSEUM! That means that we don't even have access to the rooms before 3:00 on the day of any given event. Now that you know this, go back, look at the pictures above (with the exception of the ceremony area, which admittedly we had more time in), and realize that all that set up was done in three hours. Yes, three short hours. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And yes, we were pretty proud of ourselves. THAT much I do remember...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If this wedding looks familiar to you, it should! It was featured in<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> <span style="font-size: small;">the Winter/Spring 2012 edition of</span></span> WedLuxe magazine. <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/index.cfm?pagePath=Features_Gallery/Real_life_Weddings/Winter/Spring_2012/Shelby_Graeme&id=38380#/site/wedluxe/assets/images/store1.jpg">Click here for a link to the story and the photos</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Thank you to our friend Storey Wilkins for being on hand and doing what you do best: taking beautiful and meaningful photos of days that go by so quickly. Months and months of planning and then --poof-- it's over in a matter of hours. We are very reliant on our photographers to capture and immortalize these days for us. And Storey is one of the very best at doing that...</span></div>
Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-64410747135840105822013-02-23T16:35:00.000-05:002013-05-07T20:11:19.693-04:00Putting the Fun Back into FUNdraising<div style="text-align: justify;">
Back in November, we planned a cocktail reception for the <a href="http://www.lungcancercanada.ca/">Lung Cancer Canada</a> annual gala at <a href="http://events.oliverbonacini.com/Venues/Arcadian-Loft.aspx">The Arcadian Loft</a>. Our mandate was to design an evening that was as far-away-as-possible from the typical sit down dinner/rubber chicken affairs that too many gala-goers have to endure. We were also asked to come up with something novel to replace the omnipresent Silent Auction... And to that end, we incorporated a "game" into an otherwise elegant and on-point evening. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
I can't take credit for the idea: my mother used to do this at my birthday parties when I was but a young 'un. Everyone would sit in a circle and pass a present (wrapped in multiple layers of paper) around, while some random song played on my 45RPM record player. When the music stopped, the person holding it would unwrap a layer and so it would go until the final layer revealed the prize inside. We thought it might be fun to try this on a larger scale -- because, really, who doesn't love to open presents? -- all while raising funds for lung cancer research. I'll show you the pics from the game, but first, a little background:<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFUEG2gV2OIXPV_lHN1Sg600YsOc5N7q_vlYE9uZCVfjinocUrzIqQp7qhqvplSNGpR7y9AbMEMUwSvVAIy-LrB4EKmYS2M9N6FCWOovc9r61VGoY5ai4hWlnHOV_4ceB3GAG062O3CU/s1600/_HJH7184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFUEG2gV2OIXPV_lHN1Sg600YsOc5N7q_vlYE9uZCVfjinocUrzIqQp7qhqvplSNGpR7y9AbMEMUwSvVAIy-LrB4EKmYS2M9N6FCWOovc9r61VGoY5ai4hWlnHOV_4ceB3GAG062O3CU/s640/_HJH7184.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Lung Cancer Canada logo is a pair of green leaves, attached to look like a set of lungs. The symbolism of the leaf was a big part of our mandate that evening. This photo is of the pins that were given out to guests when they registered that evening.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACc34eMh7-bSQ9dKGDf1mh_38fC5BeTL6zgiGWF_0H5zArZEU4SqpzMluUuN7otz8dR8f42E9t50V5CiiIFnRSBTjAMQXAlYQpOdWPCg8fJxmjB0dizdedJDSiazCtnxp_YiiqgnUqq0/s1600/_HJH7213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACc34eMh7-bSQ9dKGDf1mh_38fC5BeTL6zgiGWF_0H5zArZEU4SqpzMluUuN7otz8dR8f42E9t50V5CiiIFnRSBTjAMQXAlYQpOdWPCg8fJxmjB0dizdedJDSiazCtnxp_YiiqgnUqq0/s640/_HJH7213.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Decor was kept simple, both for financial and esthetic reasons: vases, filled with salal leaves and green votive candles everywhere. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBKoB5JxLKd8trXDZysW4UETu66RM_weVib9TEBnNBEtTyj3jXNxbTw_NGNMt37g43RE_4txE7U0W6yHacG7mQgzl1v35JvyWbi200uTbkUJwMrf8wZA4E8J1a_mejwm5ZXmLx0oSL8aM/s1600/_HJH7252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBKoB5JxLKd8trXDZysW4UETu66RM_weVib9TEBnNBEtTyj3jXNxbTw_NGNMt37g43RE_4txE7U0W6yHacG7mQgzl1v35JvyWbi200uTbkUJwMrf8wZA4E8J1a_mejwm5ZXmLx0oSL8aM/s640/_HJH7252.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A big, (wo)man-made tree stood in the centre of the room, representing The Grove, a memorial area in Sunnybrook Park where trees are planted in memory of people who have lost their battles with lung cancer. You can see some of the leaves that we 'sold' that evening to play our game dangling from the branches.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The next photo lists the prizes to be won and the costs associated to join the fun. This is something we stressed very heavily to the committee: we didn't need <i>a lot</i> of prizes, but we needed really, really great ones. There was nothing on that list that was worth less than $500; the Grand Prize was a diamond necklace worth $2200! Talk about a good return on a $20 leaf!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1RAQTBPErXPsD8ayNSdemPQjWUvxkDTnyP9_ffKpT3RTDSE76d0ZXo8pU_Cuerrew-pvJRNLpDRAt51PHfp6bHm0mt_zDvjXIyDzz9PL1r2fSLQCNBCLLkysuTgQ3s0r9TDufiH39_7U/s1600/_HJH7117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1RAQTBPErXPsD8ayNSdemPQjWUvxkDTnyP9_ffKpT3RTDSE76d0ZXo8pU_Cuerrew-pvJRNLpDRAt51PHfp6bHm0mt_zDvjXIyDzz9PL1r2fSLQCNBCLLkysuTgQ3s0r9TDufiH39_7U/s640/_HJH7117.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So here's the promised explanation of the gist of the game: there were 11 presents, all wrapped in different shades of green on the table. Guests needed to 'buy' leaves from volunteers wandering the room; and could, in turn, redeem each leaf to unwrap ONE layer of paper on the present of their choice. What people didn't know was how many layers of paper there were on any given box... some had as many as 47 (and yes, Gabi and I had the pleasure of wrapping each and everyone one of those!) and some had as few as 10. An important rule was that people couldn't touch the parcel before taking off a layer, because you could feel which ones had a lot of padding... And that would be cheating...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtdvZNJ3Qj3Gl_G4-787mYB7vkiwWazB22tUJEoD1kvcxlffqoV9ffx6kq-F1LMIcUijf7nSda-vHfukC5l7KukfJTGG6GBrwvW7Hzla1iTek6f4ufcKdpFZui0ObZBdjWIRGtPwnPjo/s1600/_HJH7114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtdvZNJ3Qj3Gl_G4-787mYB7vkiwWazB22tUJEoD1kvcxlffqoV9ffx6kq-F1LMIcUijf7nSda-vHfukC5l7KukfJTGG6GBrwvW7Hzla1iTek6f4ufcKdpFZui0ObZBdjWIRGtPwnPjo/s640/_HJH7114.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And so, once the speeches were done, our little corner of fun opened up and it was so exciting for Gabi and I to see the great response to our idea. Not to mention the gratification for the seemingly endless hours we spent wrapping... Here are a few of shots of the first people to partake:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcBWoi3z1ZfOEp7xreZHdnVup0NqunY6z31IVgGAo1CR06Blk5nzppiB-FnCPnCXTKLUbXIf8SgtnkQWUZTIjhfYhk9cbvBuACTANqDjaNumqbhGXf93bKUkd20_KKo0duFoSyd0nNxcg/s1600/_HJH7480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcBWoi3z1ZfOEp7xreZHdnVup0NqunY6z31IVgGAo1CR06Blk5nzppiB-FnCPnCXTKLUbXIf8SgtnkQWUZTIjhfYhk9cbvBuACTANqDjaNumqbhGXf93bKUkd20_KKo0duFoSyd0nNxcg/s640/_HJH7480.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGWlL1l_kgj7WQB71uEBCD3jUsZ5P5C7FtWR3AmfCF9UDz-eZGkqJmQ7TYo4jpcOvFVdRDT3CU7Ke7rwsEiyAU8WqQLWQiHro5jPzkmoCmO60ok4UQnBUcapME5axE6nblxZhSPVT3294/s1600/_HJH7536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGWlL1l_kgj7WQB71uEBCD3jUsZ5P5C7FtWR3AmfCF9UDz-eZGkqJmQ7TYo4jpcOvFVdRDT3CU7Ke7rwsEiyAU8WqQLWQiHro5jPzkmoCmO60ok4UQnBUcapME5axE6nblxZhSPVT3294/s640/_HJH7536.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ZbXbbYd8PFbHtIlM95GC4oVs-f3XCTpVn-5EyPFlydvec5AMEeZfehr0ZjEFWD0-5dA_1X8hwPNUCUCb0x8mchvrdRTvacWHU2R3tiUkWMHuXGR6YvplL1W8BlpfmAGWizw7XLG9Wyw/s1600/_HJH7554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ZbXbbYd8PFbHtIlM95GC4oVs-f3XCTpVn-5EyPFlydvec5AMEeZfehr0ZjEFWD0-5dA_1X8hwPNUCUCb0x8mchvrdRTvacWHU2R3tiUkWMHuXGR6YvplL1W8BlpfmAGWizw7XLG9Wyw/s640/_HJH7554.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here's a picture of the very first winner, who won a $500 gift certificate to William Ashley! Look at the smiles on their faces -- one of the best parts of this game was how people reverted to their childlike selves:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIY2x-CLS3J4M-vsu59cBKV3LLvAfY5fb5JDwgO-72U3nb93oBiOHxVmgNoXhonhIUbs1bQPSOENy339wc0ysbz89s-jFzqjhJIMSpzOKcwqJqjpHyWEklPTEKHf5G2-zJjD6V4ar6784/s1600/_HJH7644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIY2x-CLS3J4M-vsu59cBKV3LLvAfY5fb5JDwgO-72U3nb93oBiOHxVmgNoXhonhIUbs1bQPSOENy339wc0ysbz89s-jFzqjhJIMSpzOKcwqJqjpHyWEklPTEKHf5G2-zJjD6V4ar6784/s640/_HJH7644.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Next I'm going to show you an uninterrupted series of pictures of a woman who THOUGHT she'd won, only to discover that we'd tricked her. Here's the reason: some of the wrapping was getting so thick (and you could visually tell there were a lot of layers on there), that we started putting boxes inside boxes, so that we could start with a clean slate, wrapping wise. Watch the progression of her experience:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuEAa6GgUB2_pj4AkwF7BOUY2DdCxv1mnEnKY9XbU-T14TvdjR_ToaQYVyYjMNLV09xGEtGxvjG9xaN-fvRNEBDdznHKl-BRfz_c1QAN9LLpT9ceWWuqxbgRwtyph15RAVY-nV0nC0T1c/s1600/_HJH7655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuEAa6GgUB2_pj4AkwF7BOUY2DdCxv1mnEnKY9XbU-T14TvdjR_ToaQYVyYjMNLV09xGEtGxvjG9xaN-fvRNEBDdznHKl-BRfz_c1QAN9LLpT9ceWWuqxbgRwtyph15RAVY-nV0nC0T1c/s640/_HJH7655.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0n7VC_t6xGVnfTfM__xw-iEeKU8XmjoTRggGTYtdHhsKr-SyOC7yb1210ilbqKA91YxeZWS9T2bRR0dahpbL2Pstns7KFO326Y5Fb_QV5R4T4vDHw-J-NjCWaIsngFPwE1qZdwruq6xo/s1600/_HJH7664.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0n7VC_t6xGVnfTfM__xw-iEeKU8XmjoTRggGTYtdHhsKr-SyOC7yb1210ilbqKA91YxeZWS9T2bRR0dahpbL2Pstns7KFO326Y5Fb_QV5R4T4vDHw-J-NjCWaIsngFPwE1qZdwruq6xo/s640/_HJH7664.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEGr5hHW6yG3uKZAWYNK4Vac4cnkqisurkTFBPvobN2iWwDCABeuJV-GwAjpLpx_bCAbe7BnrfiZ-WELaX8vrnUd8M4lT1cL57hyQkCmc74qDoXbpim2zCBnGZG2BSbW7hujLSdOhXmw/s1600/_HJH7669.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEGr5hHW6yG3uKZAWYNK4Vac4cnkqisurkTFBPvobN2iWwDCABeuJV-GwAjpLpx_bCAbe7BnrfiZ-WELaX8vrnUd8M4lT1cL57hyQkCmc74qDoXbpim2zCBnGZG2BSbW7hujLSdOhXmw/s640/_HJH7669.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1W8KL9wQTj8yCqNTi-MnxdECGRZ50oN5ad_eLHkQYzujxRBE88QeV6d_W0CpKycFFoVBmdV6FpAUBka7iNLopyqT_Jscrl12eEgAZiLfU-K52YC3094jX6YBanOt3UUdw0ABFDddne5A/s1600/_HJH7673.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1W8KL9wQTj8yCqNTi-MnxdECGRZ50oN5ad_eLHkQYzujxRBE88QeV6d_W0CpKycFFoVBmdV6FpAUBka7iNLopyqT_Jscrl12eEgAZiLfU-K52YC3094jX6YBanOt3UUdw0ABFDddne5A/s640/_HJH7673.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjMcjyrZ5o1TD3ePnpmJ1wEVw74hNel_wWgWCDOJnttK42dptKu5QI47GBVXlsjibcms1qVTDttXbk3-uYg62KrWbzY1W45phVEzIzQ0sXLSnNerOECAJWWHCHcb9-_294l26rX7xOu8o/s1600/_HJH7680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjMcjyrZ5o1TD3ePnpmJ1wEVw74hNel_wWgWCDOJnttK42dptKu5QI47GBVXlsjibcms1qVTDttXbk3-uYg62KrWbzY1W45phVEzIzQ0sXLSnNerOECAJWWHCHcb9-_294l26rX7xOu8o/s640/_HJH7680.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkl7sKmqa1Ju9N8dqJ_EXeilrsoe46tyMwkuJ-svp4M2xnzHYikmNNHCUGs25get9GQ7nxn3-pEDAILhkMGQDFRDsuhj07kCt05pMAsy6octh8ASAQOBzA_50y2RaB9BvfN0vxYt8Quso/s1600/_HJH7684.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkl7sKmqa1Ju9N8dqJ_EXeilrsoe46tyMwkuJ-svp4M2xnzHYikmNNHCUGs25get9GQ7nxn3-pEDAILhkMGQDFRDsuhj07kCt05pMAsy6octh8ASAQOBzA_50y2RaB9BvfN0vxYt8Quso/s640/_HJH7684.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlnBtqQOw4e81mWh6Ca3nmhR9h5min8mByPTlzIg8Gos8k-xlatWQ7BB3_YLtvhfDDhJLvkAnh3w7kWyVCTLCP_XPVUDZ5DdlQufaW272IO5KkIljXFZDLgithyphenhyphenjo5FywPOM3BeiEVDs/s1600/_HJH7687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlnBtqQOw4e81mWh6Ca3nmhR9h5min8mByPTlzIg8Gos8k-xlatWQ7BB3_YLtvhfDDhJLvkAnh3w7kWyVCTLCP_XPVUDZ5DdlQufaW272IO5KkIljXFZDLgithyphenhyphenjo5FywPOM3BeiEVDs/s640/_HJH7687.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPA7vYmxYnEHSfRaQku-SezdW1aE3s2psGk7nI3cP8jRVvmkv107PZIOWuybdxM32rZszycwzOAlY8vlBkz1CPAEMURiVtifedxVDTmMClAyvv-kJFKihlnwmC0D2nOx-3xYeEJxRjeX8/s1600/_HJH7697.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPA7vYmxYnEHSfRaQku-SezdW1aE3s2psGk7nI3cP8jRVvmkv107PZIOWuybdxM32rZszycwzOAlY8vlBkz1CPAEMURiVtifedxVDTmMClAyvv-kJFKihlnwmC0D2nOx-3xYeEJxRjeX8/s640/_HJH7697.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What a fun part of the night it was -- people LOVED it and it created excitement all 'round. We sold out of leaves sooner than we ever could have imagined; the response was <i>that</i> enthusiastic. Gabi and I looked at each other at the end of the evening and said, "Could you imagine how much more we could've raised if we'd had more prizes and more people to help us wrap these damn boxes?!!" Alas... It's good to set goals and now we have something to work towards for NEXT year!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoTt5r-7KgBj5xD43C4jCe8FiH5-icxoqaDWcZBlzPBAMvzZHjqe0hOLhXZ-c_wYhJyUJM8bJS_j73xEDQR3QeRPkdagJiHK35xgPqyigFNmjY5pNHidF6WlcXMB5PKPEuEHfoiS5vBI/s1600/_HJH7716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoTt5r-7KgBj5xD43C4jCe8FiH5-icxoqaDWcZBlzPBAMvzZHjqe0hOLhXZ-c_wYhJyUJM8bJS_j73xEDQR3QeRPkdagJiHK35xgPqyigFNmjY5pNHidF6WlcXMB5PKPEuEHfoiS5vBI/s640/_HJH7716.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
Very sincere thanks to our friend <a href="http://www.ikonica.ca/">T.H. Jackson Huang from IKONICA</a> for donating his time and talent to take photos for us. And to <a href="http://michaelcoombs.ca/">DJ Michael Coombs</a> for spinning the tunes and giving the space a great atmosphere from the moment it kicked off. And to <a href="http://www.sterlingkjargaard.com/">Gisele Sterling from Sterling Kjargaard</a> for tying all those ribbons on the leaves, making our tree and for working so tirelessly, even with such a small budget. Go team!Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-11488872262128373272013-01-31T13:53:00.003-05:002013-02-23T21:36:34.851-05:00Erin & Robert's Same-Day-Edit<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/45425278?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe> <br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/45425278">Erin + Robert {Same-Day-Edit}</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/c9c">Cloud Nine Creative</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.
Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-69088258240138556182012-12-31T19:01:00.000-05:002013-01-07T13:51:03.054-05:002012: A Year in Review<div style="text-align: justify;">
Phew. What a year. We helped plan and throw some pretty incredible parties, even by our own critical standards. We built tents in highly unusual places, continually surprised & delighted clients and guests alike, all while pushing our own boundaries to create celebrations that were true to our company tag line: <i>events without equal</i>. And this year, thanks to some really brave and adventurous clients, we did just that, over and over again. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But it wasn't just about our clients. I thought it might be fun to dedicate this, the final post of 2012, to some of the wonderful people we worked with over the last 12 months who helped us make every party more spectacular than the one that came before. Without this motley crew of friends and colleagues, our events would never have been what they were. Most of these pictures were snapped by either Gabi or I, using all we had on us at the time (our trusty iPhones), but in spite of the occasional blurry image, they do manage to tell a good story:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSghbpA_qsgHjVO2R99oB0Y6a84G6eeG1SJ0UXqbaFd46HoHSL4wvyVkEaxIwmwBo21JviIp5dQzkEUWCj5JLNrch5JxVbDSNYr6iKLyMm49z1oyMZCyLuCGZHO0uoNVQqveCFBSD9JW0/s1600/Review3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSghbpA_qsgHjVO2R99oB0Y6a84G6eeG1SJ0UXqbaFd46HoHSL4wvyVkEaxIwmwBo21JviIp5dQzkEUWCj5JLNrch5JxVbDSNYr6iKLyMm49z1oyMZCyLuCGZHO0uoNVQqveCFBSD9JW0/s640/Review3.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
Here are the boys from <a href="http://www.cfrentals.com/">Contemporary Furniture Rentals</a>, meticulously polishing the white plexi dance floor after laying it down. Ladies, when was the last time you saw any man polish a floor, let alone EIGHT of them??? For those people who say CFRentals are more expensive than some other rental companies out there, consider photos like this as Exhibit A: Everything from that company --and I mean everything-- is in perfect condition when your guests arrive. That, to me, is priceless.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9u1o13cIjqNCdK2P0TY54-5tGVHX2rg4-gbnehmG7HCbODWgxE189pMgVSIpjG-W-uQ0h-TYeEcY2ddgnWw_HXhqLZvbezD7EyrZKfsgpgthaBZ4jTt1UF6jdhvKIxcgjI3YS9_s1Kk/s1600/Reivew6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9u1o13cIjqNCdK2P0TY54-5tGVHX2rg4-gbnehmG7HCbODWgxE189pMgVSIpjG-W-uQ0h-TYeEcY2ddgnWw_HXhqLZvbezD7EyrZKfsgpgthaBZ4jTt1UF6jdhvKIxcgjI3YS9_s1Kk/s640/Reivew6.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
And here is their boss, the supercalifragilistic Peter Somers before an engagement party at Bymark, doing what he loves to do best: measuring within an inch of his life, 'murse' on hip and bossing us all around...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7CeM59kLFdX2feHNJM_s3pxTLthu3l8VatftzzaIgEzJL4YglifqbhVWyFkAcPfKCo5yexib_aecAruSat7Ghyphenhyphen6A2_lH4QcbMxojcpbRbNY2qCiI7Q6ZWFOy3Jd66QVkzIRuGUx-tCo/s1600/Review12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7CeM59kLFdX2feHNJM_s3pxTLthu3l8VatftzzaIgEzJL4YglifqbhVWyFkAcPfKCo5yexib_aecAruSat7Ghyphenhyphen6A2_lH4QcbMxojcpbRbNY2qCiI7Q6ZWFOy3Jd66QVkzIRuGUx-tCo/s640/Review12.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This would be our favourite Superhero, Dennis Large from <a href="http://www.advancedtent.com/">Advanced Tent</a>, out in his kayak on a cold spring day, measuring where we were going to float our 5000 sq.ft. tent and the depth of the water on little Lake Joe. Funny how this photo seems like years ago to me now...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlPbE-7JESKVg7xuVHoIxt8Dg9gdlxfnfXQx2OlvPYs-6dnALwH82K3UUzLRarPOrFcYs80HZSbC7IosB1zykTBpq66wCdxZDhKTW0yjGvWFQ-7CsGWffTS89vaqVlOeP6wEuBjrkraQ/s1600/Review20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlPbE-7JESKVg7xuVHoIxt8Dg9gdlxfnfXQx2OlvPYs-6dnALwH82K3UUzLRarPOrFcYs80HZSbC7IosB1zykTBpq66wCdxZDhKTW0yjGvWFQ-7CsGWffTS89vaqVlOeP6wEuBjrkraQ/s640/Review20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Did I mention Dennis is a bit of a MacGyver? In addition to building floating palaces, he also constructs fire pits INSIDE his tents so that guests can gather 'round, roast marshmallows <i>and</i> warm their toes. Here he is again, with our irreplaceable Gary Rollerson, helping Dennis quietly and tirelessly behind the scenes... </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6_9TzrStRt7O9YPcWiAvJev7Y6247GJfxKRfWWMFDHrFwyVGnveT-ylGXA1571k1SEncZkFd3q6ah3n1z63PInEGF-0dBracnIWDofEvlkvHS0xvtvP5p8R8hsVRDIsjANQRKDAhgdFo/s1600/Review7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6_9TzrStRt7O9YPcWiAvJev7Y6247GJfxKRfWWMFDHrFwyVGnveT-ylGXA1571k1SEncZkFd3q6ah3n1z63PInEGF-0dBracnIWDofEvlkvHS0xvtvP5p8R8hsVRDIsjANQRKDAhgdFo/s640/Review7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Meet Gisele Sterling's crew from <a href="http://www.sterlingkjargaard.ca/">Sterling Kjargaard</a>, working in the boiling hot sun in July, creating a magical ceremony space for <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/index.cfm?pagePath=Features_Gallery/Real_life_Weddings/Winter/Spring_2013/Erin_Robert&id=46260#/site/wedluxe/assets/images/erinrobert_0000__HJH0423.jpg">Erin & Robert</a> to wed a few hours later. Thousand upon thousands of white roses were put into wood frames that were later moved to become the backdrop for the band during dinner and dancing. Roses were cascading off the railings as well -- not the best angle to see that from, I admit, but perhaps I'll show how great it looked from the other side one day in another post.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSluS5o2uEeG7pwrArsdYVZ7uyV-G1DvVE_kmIRkFpOfMCXq3l3Kdc2aQFlMchsKsmaBVopJ2qnGIoz8XDCNxtjUcFtr7tYt8HOE7s6GuO7GDAm4necUDNwpgJ6ru71nJs3Cf77L8DNWI/s1600/Review16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSluS5o2uEeG7pwrArsdYVZ7uyV-G1DvVE_kmIRkFpOfMCXq3l3Kdc2aQFlMchsKsmaBVopJ2qnGIoz8XDCNxtjUcFtr7tYt8HOE7s6GuO7GDAm4necUDNwpgJ6ru71nJs3Cf77L8DNWI/s640/Review16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And this is the other half of <a href="http://www.sterlingkjargaard.ca/">Sterling Kjargaard</a>, Todd Kjargaard and his team, painstakingly putting down the moss runner that our bride and groom would walk up to say their vows later that day. For me, this detail just finished the space so perfectly. We had discussed doing a patterned moss runner at one point, but I'm thrilled we went with the simpler, more organic design in the end. It felt way more authentic given that we were, quite literally, in the middle of the woods.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While we're on the topic of beautiful things, no post would be complete without a shout out to our two favourite Event Designers, Lidia Tacconelli and Bill Fulghum. It would seem that everyone and their dog these days calls themselves an event "designer," but boy, when you play with the Big Guns, you get to see what real talent, creativity and innovation is -- and these two never cease to surprise and amaze us. What an privilege it is to get to work with Lidia and Bill, year after year.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRL5yYjA7NimCUq4tTH1sgyuerhYRSHVjhH1t4IYGM3JtI2GAEBcK79rVduy8DPu1io8szthK4kKrbf9qYTdk5SUmO0B9WU11xM6cMCfqzIUSuZUaKlEHIFhBphnx8OIQVKOKeePLE2bM/s1600/Review19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRL5yYjA7NimCUq4tTH1sgyuerhYRSHVjhH1t4IYGM3JtI2GAEBcK79rVduy8DPu1io8szthK4kKrbf9qYTdk5SUmO0B9WU11xM6cMCfqzIUSuZUaKlEHIFhBphnx8OIQVKOKeePLE2bM/s640/Review19.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVS4XNZ_xOZhavZakgAEkFEdgLizZs3rPO-i-Trtu6cSKp5T7zL0mcMFMqsZC6vdnjw4EVyHJkX5WbBU_8sSEXIWIfr9LYpV714yTLFJJOakjR48Kr_U30goNXrqvY3NSYGHSVDXvcOk/s1600/Review13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVS4XNZ_xOZhavZakgAEkFEdgLizZs3rPO-i-Trtu6cSKp5T7zL0mcMFMqsZC6vdnjw4EVyHJkX5WbBU_8sSEXIWIfr9LYpV714yTLFJJOakjR48Kr_U30goNXrqvY3NSYGHSVDXvcOk/s640/Review13.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here are Lidia Tacconelli and her crew from <a href="http://www.fiorifloral.com/">FIORI Floral Designs</a>... check her out in the second photo with the measuring tape (I seem to be attracted to people that love to measure -- what is <i>that</i> about?), double-checking the exact spacing between each arrangement, leaving nothing to chance. Love that.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLzbPPISN_PV05JnMriC9i_KhGx2RPM2ju_vDUn6GbKLTlAlX5lB4ew380KMqX7z2z9Dc4uEYdvP9pGWFAZidd3XkMayGQVAINqOTyKGWRIhO7y_hr6nzo2RXFwZ8nKvDylmc2vlrOAL0/s1600/Review10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLzbPPISN_PV05JnMriC9i_KhGx2RPM2ju_vDUn6GbKLTlAlX5lB4ew380KMqX7z2z9Dc4uEYdvP9pGWFAZidd3XkMayGQVAINqOTyKGWRIhO7y_hr6nzo2RXFwZ8nKvDylmc2vlrOAL0/s640/Review10.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Oh yeah: Our Favourite Diva and Perfect Gentleman, all wrapped into one crazily-creative man: the one and only <a href="http://www.williamfulghum.com/">Bill Fulghum</a>. This is him setting up at the AGO for a Sikh wedding ceremony. I wish I had more of the gorgeous and understated background in this particular photo... but alas, his expression is worth more than a pretty backdrop.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLfBhWvFCiqpqAyiAHlA_OfmlBgamVlHWpemAcEsDKH9R9xLtSLEY69-7FY6AUu00B9I9iIc5yCHgXB40GRhi-QPtVCqejZddqPNGxrTjo7kd1JmdVli9RdKNemxHXYNkp7eY2rRrUE4/s1600/Review15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLfBhWvFCiqpqAyiAHlA_OfmlBgamVlHWpemAcEsDKH9R9xLtSLEY69-7FY6AUu00B9I9iIc5yCHgXB40GRhi-QPtVCqejZddqPNGxrTjo7kd1JmdVli9RdKNemxHXYNkp7eY2rRrUE4/s640/Review15.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
How could I forget our lovely A/V and all-round-go-to-guy Alan Bisson? Poor Alan -- we threw just about every challenge we could dream up at him this year: he was dangling in trees rigging chandeliers, cableling all power through the ceiling for that tent that was literally on the water (electricity + water = scary), dealing with diva demands from fancy big-name performers, fixing staff washrooms that were on the fritz, appeasing cranky carpet layers & exhausted draping people, all while making this planner happy -- no small feat indeed. Seriously, this is one person who singlehandedly made the impossible possible. And, while I realize we drove you to distraction repeatedly, know that we love you Alan!</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsLErskqsZc4HL8T2ryWnhoY35DAmDzaJtepgCHXInV3JWPJLi0lYPJ4XZ_RUgcoa-O_8lfL3SMQcYkusuuK742DSBodu6EmkXGjd4_2_cIMNZv8PCdipVSJu6fTGU8XPLhljIYpqdC6k/s1600/Review1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsLErskqsZc4HL8T2ryWnhoY35DAmDzaJtepgCHXInV3JWPJLi0lYPJ4XZ_RUgcoa-O_8lfL3SMQcYkusuuK742DSBodu6EmkXGjd4_2_cIMNZv8PCdipVSJu6fTGU8XPLhljIYpqdC6k/s640/Review1.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Who says there was no drama this year? Here we are at The Carlu for our <a href="http://photon.ikonica.ca/weddings_blog/">WedLuxe Style Files shoot: Luminous Lavender</a>. Seconds after Allyson & Sarah from <a href="http://www.bobbetteandbelle.com/">Bobbette & Belle</a> arrived to deliver their cake, one of the glass shelves holding hundreds of lavender roses suddenly broke in two, shattering the containers and scattering flowers and petals EVERYWHERE. Everyone pitched in to tidy and try to salvage what we could: this is Allyson, Sarah, Gisele and myself working as fast as we could...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifHQZ0EnBsUtGVZXSy5bMUMAzSf0pJqCsep51pg30qdh54hOaqh05ZdYyUUj-JCfcWTX6Kh_milFo0yCxFuvCrjmw-q7ZLF8T9TX8DkFQLqiG8P9ykw1s5vLmYP2EYd7G5BpXC1bMqWdM/s1600/Review2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifHQZ0EnBsUtGVZXSy5bMUMAzSf0pJqCsep51pg30qdh54hOaqh05ZdYyUUj-JCfcWTX6Kh_milFo0yCxFuvCrjmw-q7ZLF8T9TX8DkFQLqiG8P9ykw1s5vLmYP2EYd7G5BpXC1bMqWdM/s640/Review2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mission accomplished: another shelf was found, roses, containers et al were replaced and none of our WedLuxe readers were any the wiser for the behind-the-scenes heart attack about 8 of us had that day! Here is <a href="http://www.ikonica.ca/">Jackson Huang of Ikonica</a> getting his picture: I love how he makes this look like it was an action shot, when in fact it was far more of a still life...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
No year-end wrap-up would be complete without talking about one of the less glamourous (but essential) parts of our job: g.a.r.b.a.g.e. Yes readers, you would die if you saw how much refuse was generated on every single event that is thrown across this city. And nowhere is it more apparent than when we build tents on private property. Here are some beauties:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKX5WCCGBr88TWyttd9jSFQDlrW7PNr80TfYZN0nwIzAY-SQHSr15UgpTXa7CnHBGgrUD5o7EksdOoUlZ3REEp1kLFOw-tzX19oGbK3u97gbyBNIGRtE-kr6v4HFG5PHkGpXogIH5VHJc/s1600/Review11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKX5WCCGBr88TWyttd9jSFQDlrW7PNr80TfYZN0nwIzAY-SQHSr15UgpTXa7CnHBGgrUD5o7EksdOoUlZ3REEp1kLFOw-tzX19oGbK3u97gbyBNIGRtE-kr6v4HFG5PHkGpXogIH5VHJc/s640/Review11.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This first one is an entire 1-800-GOT-JUNK truck filled with garbage and empties that were crated away the day after Erin & Robert's gorgeous affair... Yes, the aftermath of a wedding is never pretty -- I always warn clients to stay away if at all possible; it's downright depressing, on so many levels!<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1s6djfjRmBx6FB0bS1d1YmTQaATVyIppcRR2n1Zj8JCpv9UBHrkuxqta6nYnqUB_la-PEutYoLnvpj0Yq1zRC5qWVfw6GZM7Ha4D9j4rqZDNeM6dH60VMbhyphenhyphenKagQD2oZz4potYW02A1c/s1600/Review17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1s6djfjRmBx6FB0bS1d1YmTQaATVyIppcRR2n1Zj8JCpv9UBHrkuxqta6nYnqUB_la-PEutYoLnvpj0Yq1zRC5qWVfw6GZM7Ha4D9j4rqZDNeM6dH60VMbhyphenhyphenKagQD2oZz4potYW02A1c/s640/Review17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And here are Gabi and I posing with one of the bins from our Caledon wedding. Admittedly, this was our biggest event of the year, but that bin was one of THREE that were emptied every single day during the build and I believe a total of five more times during the tear down. Even after all these years, the amount of garbage generated by our parties never ceases to amaze me. Not to mention the cost to haul it all away...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And now it's time to turn our focus to the SpectacularSpectacular team... because, really, without them, NONE of this would or could have happened.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6qy-XAd98ZxJW4FSn7OfCbjgFV3sTRTcANVlBpSkHQvXLFktRY-u-EVaT8OCS2PrsyTx-s5k3igQlIJOuk7mSOg61MmnEUMt8Jv8QIBTlRbe-rj87SfQQKdShrwNwZxtInwZJtDoyaZw/s1600/Review9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6qy-XAd98ZxJW4FSn7OfCbjgFV3sTRTcANVlBpSkHQvXLFktRY-u-EVaT8OCS2PrsyTx-s5k3igQlIJOuk7mSOg61MmnEUMt8Jv8QIBTlRbe-rj87SfQQKdShrwNwZxtInwZJtDoyaZw/s640/Review9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here is Gabi, standing in the middle of the pouring rain, walkie-talkie on hip, trying (uselessly) to make a cellular phone call while executing a wedding in Algonquin Park. I gather this was one of the more challenging events EVER! Not only did it rain for 3 days straight, all the power went off across the entire park 20 minutes before our bride was to walk down the mud-soaked aisle and my poor girls had to sleep in camp cabins with no heat at night. Think 3 degrees celsius INSIDE the cabin... we Canadians are pretty hardy people, but dammit, our buildings need to be warm! Thank goodness all the guests were 'camp' people who loved every minute of the experience and wholeheartedly embraced the absurdity of the situation. It turns out a little rain may not have ever hurt anyone, but it sure doesn't make for fun working conditions...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnXIQRv_POvE7yOQSPlTzyNDSeUs6nNbwLNqv135XrIn-P41teOgBxMBTr0_KXmw60gz2-a2Gshf9AenwtzP1oeNVDCyFTsjl3oyXXxE1NbK7dFnelMCAzsrgmiRVoN5fs_UMk_G1Gl8/s1600/Review5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnXIQRv_POvE7yOQSPlTzyNDSeUs6nNbwLNqv135XrIn-P41teOgBxMBTr0_KXmw60gz2-a2Gshf9AenwtzP1oeNVDCyFTsjl3oyXXxE1NbK7dFnelMCAzsrgmiRVoN5fs_UMk_G1Gl8/s640/Review5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
And here's our Transportation Guru and all 'round super trouper Sarah, posing with her NBF, Donna of Hammond Transportation in Muskoka this past July. When planning cottage/destination extravaganzas, the successful management of transportation becomes a critical part of the success of the event. At any given Muskoka wedding, consider these facts: let's say there will be approximately 200 guests -- all arriving in a crush for the ceremony, but leaving at different times throughout the night. Some will need to be bused from hotels, some will arrive in limousines and many will travel by boat. There will also be anywhere from 60-100 staff members who need to park their vehicles somewhere and then be shuttled to and from the property throughout the event. Sarah oversees ALL of this. The poor girl spent the summer (standing in her sexy safety vest) directing bodies in EVERY kind of condition: from the boiling hot sun, to torrential rains, to finally being able to see her breath in late September... yet she always had a smile on her face and a warm greeting for everyone she met. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ8Rfl0z1nrLBu6LKDPInz8OLDm_CX8yGM9KzbCQ7TwoaEMemKfqYHdnVV5ULdNlD96IUinxhgg0it03_RWrPjLY6eTLWQFG5xdczGrtKEkbiCjVh4tFs3rw4JxoUrOqxagBEEVw5EPAg/s1600/Review8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ8Rfl0z1nrLBu6LKDPInz8OLDm_CX8yGM9KzbCQ7TwoaEMemKfqYHdnVV5ULdNlD96IUinxhgg0it03_RWrPjLY6eTLWQFG5xdczGrtKEkbiCjVh4tFs3rw4JxoUrOqxagBEEVw5EPAg/s640/Review8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Finally, on a funny note, I leave you with the smallest member of our team, my dog Jinx La Rue. This was taken during the building of the tent city that was <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/index.cfm?pagePath=Features_Gallery/Real_life_Weddings/Winter/Spring_2013/Erin_Robert&id=46260#/site/wedluxe/assets/images/erinrobert_0000__HJH0423.jpg">Erin & Robert's wedding</a>. You may recognize the wisteria from somewhere...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With that, I bid goodbye to 2012. It was a great year -- full of challenges and hurdles to overcome, for sure, but ultimately, one that Gabi, Sarah and I look back on with great satisfaction and pride. Thank you to EVERYONE who came along for the ride. I wonder what surprises lie ahead for 2013?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A very Happy New Year to all. Over 'n out.</div>
<br />
<br />Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-38976547705526936732012-12-11T13:37:00.001-05:002012-12-11T14:08:30.121-05:00Erin & Robert in WedLuxe Magazine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfgvqGQpbTd4G9V84OKRErAyQ0RiUyzFz74aN7ViJOK3VxTOsltNyMinYu9QlF27lms4y8JqQ14iA2gl7K-7XPyLZlvdn-3cvuag7FDuVmyYc4eY5I_yZ-m0wAhliH6bPmSPqmBdJJn0I/s1600/E&R1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfgvqGQpbTd4G9V84OKRErAyQ0RiUyzFz74aN7ViJOK3VxTOsltNyMinYu9QlF27lms4y8JqQ14iA2gl7K-7XPyLZlvdn-3cvuag7FDuVmyYc4eY5I_yZ-m0wAhliH6bPmSPqmBdJJn0I/s640/E&R1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The latest issue of <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/">WedLuxe Magazine</a> has just hit the newsstands and we are so thrilled to finally be able to share this spectacular wedding with the world. Guests were treated to three individually-designed areas in the family's backyard: the all-white ceremony space where we covered the pool in lucite, followed by the serene cocktail tent, all done in shades of soft grey and white. Finally, guests entered the pièce de résistance: the lavender and white dinner tent with the jaw-dropping 12 x 60 foot canopy of trailing wisteria over the dance floor. I know we've done a great job when I wish <i>I</i> was a guest at a party!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/index.cfm?id=46260#/site/wedluxe/assets/images/erinrobert_0000__HJH0423.jpg">Click here to read the online version</a> -- there are even more delicious photographs here than what appeared in the print version. All the images you will see were expertly captured by our friend T.H. Jackson Huang at <a href="http://www.ikonica.ca/">Ikonica</a>.</div>
<br />Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-8145949299647733852012-11-26T17:52:00.000-05:002013-01-02T23:52:11.094-05:00There Were Signs All Along<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQFnERXGdfKM-Fp94Mrx6SQRAuFWnQKvjY12Dq76ib0du-WjSRHsy6DirT5qede94k9BhNpqX9eDOLqVU8eF8fUmEjBjn21w1tVoZV7xaynZrMOmRNo78Kx2QtlZu5_Yv0jMiwWUTUpPI/s1600/TC1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQFnERXGdfKM-Fp94Mrx6SQRAuFWnQKvjY12Dq76ib0du-WjSRHsy6DirT5qede94k9BhNpqX9eDOLqVU8eF8fUmEjBjn21w1tVoZV7xaynZrMOmRNo78Kx2QtlZu5_Yv0jMiwWUTUpPI/s640/TC1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We did the coolest wedding back in September. Our groom had a vision to get married in a clearing in the woods; and, boy, we did it up in style! Female guests were encouraged to wear their flats for the picturesque walk in and out of the forest. We hung signs along the way: Each one said one thing going in to the woods and then, during the ceremony, we flipped them over to reveal a different message as guests made their way out to the reception.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiie3OGjMAygCfIfAtdvuLVFy630qVrsUeI1rjWFBcI7fpMU7cuXMWnN-PXMsGJKEvzjJlI7_8nSr_3lzatIEWULRK3H5gkCF8tVy7H7QnvZbo6dHpjim8DzD6E-z-n9gvSkQtvPfq9pnY/s1600/TC2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiie3OGjMAygCfIfAtdvuLVFy630qVrsUeI1rjWFBcI7fpMU7cuXMWnN-PXMsGJKEvzjJlI7_8nSr_3lzatIEWULRK3H5gkCF8tVy7H7QnvZbo6dHpjim8DzD6E-z-n9gvSkQtvPfq9pnY/s640/TC2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Deborah Lau Yu from <a href="http://www.palettera.ca/">Palettera Custom Correspondences</a> illustrated 3 different versions by hand and mounted them on board that my poor team had to tie around trees at just the right height. The small army of photographers on hand that day from <a href="http://www.5ive15ifteen.com/">5ive15ifteen Photo Company</a> snapped these photos; they make me smile, every time I look at them.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwaRppkA8YFLhQONJS3GrFJM75jh5u7qHdkvGyXKtc6-etxaXaNzdlD3dCGSDDZVgxBPwEWpXIkWaRiCjA1gyzrfKMTgMoyXYANeUXvgxrpKRATCjm3OomUE5rELA6PLQWHEateigFtc/s1600/TC3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwaRppkA8YFLhQONJS3GrFJM75jh5u7qHdkvGyXKtc6-etxaXaNzdlD3dCGSDDZVgxBPwEWpXIkWaRiCjA1gyzrfKMTgMoyXYANeUXvgxrpKRATCjm3OomUE5rELA6PLQWHEateigFtc/s640/TC3.jpg" width="527" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTOIvof2wPnhfBTPodj0hEg9PWYeObo8uq_ppVeT0g-oQ5fVhvuZjDCmO_JYSZBxB6p-tRsL7a56r7Cl_jimYS4IIYrsjyMOof-tHrRnr1SobrJ3NIZI4v-W9Te7JgQbYaofvYDPzf3wo/s1600/TC4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTOIvof2wPnhfBTPodj0hEg9PWYeObo8uq_ppVeT0g-oQ5fVhvuZjDCmO_JYSZBxB6p-tRsL7a56r7Cl_jimYS4IIYrsjyMOof-tHrRnr1SobrJ3NIZI4v-W9Te7JgQbYaofvYDPzf3wo/s640/TC4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This one still cracks me up: You're <i>Almost</i>, Almost There. It was probably only a 5 minute walk in the woods in total, but I thought it might be a good idea to let guests know it wasn't much further!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg2pLgfxIC1iOVR4MXes2FPhRK5TAN8ABSLJnhlCpffQ4qVKPTHjikGiRFhqgZ7nP7HM0KQSUjxVti_3cytI7V4Cx9JbarGwlspV11nAxvzHPR0MkxH8l5hQcZ5e2r0otrGQN3wshhKyk/s1600/TC5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg2pLgfxIC1iOVR4MXes2FPhRK5TAN8ABSLJnhlCpffQ4qVKPTHjikGiRFhqgZ7nP7HM0KQSUjxVti_3cytI7V4Cx9JbarGwlspV11nAxvzHPR0MkxH8l5hQcZ5e2r0otrGQN3wshhKyk/s640/TC5.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At this point, guests exited the main path and began the final leg in. Once they turned left, this is what they saw:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9OLR7ftHK915ecGXJSuazXEYYA9dPBtaIGv_j4uOB2xIrDEox0xuFTZ1TO8xzQX0OdJxL40uBLnF4oR2K8WClWMIyfkX10l1tnnCJynsGLSoFHsarCe2c4328upLo5R0eRUQK11NEc4/s1600/TC6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9OLR7ftHK915ecGXJSuazXEYYA9dPBtaIGv_j4uOB2xIrDEox0xuFTZ1TO8xzQX0OdJxL40uBLnF4oR2K8WClWMIyfkX10l1tnnCJynsGLSoFHsarCe2c4328upLo5R0eRUQK11NEc4/s640/TC6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
Sixteen waiters lined the footpath with glasses of festive pink champagne. Guests were able to take these into the ceremony site, where they were continually topped up until the ceremony began. On the way out, these same waiters lined up with trays of delectable hors d'oeuvre. We may have been in a forest, but our revelers were made to feel they were at a five-star restaurant. Albeit a five-star restaurant with trees in it...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjPS_u28L9XOdN9x43rI5amzIs0Qlns7MKzfqwSEEnDtr7_XIu10Ls8fCEHwMyrMSjyN3ZQ-WwNf-wnPU1VTFIiCfoWvzWPk-hUWCHbR2yk-xFcoZIF08iAwzSdABhWs64N6_4NBgZUWc/s1600/TC13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjPS_u28L9XOdN9x43rI5amzIs0Qlns7MKzfqwSEEnDtr7_XIu10Ls8fCEHwMyrMSjyN3ZQ-WwNf-wnPU1VTFIiCfoWvzWPk-hUWCHbR2yk-xFcoZIF08iAwzSdABhWs64N6_4NBgZUWc/s640/TC13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This was the payoff for all their efforts: the enchanted ceremony location. I'm sure I'll write another post about what went into creating this one day, but for now, sit back and enjoy the magical setting, courtesy of the fertile imagination of Event Designer <a href="http://www.williamfulghum.com/">Bill Fulghum</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68h6d3wh5DUExpPTvi8vw3VnPPnqsbW79ECTBNHpgcSwO0mrVounB50gCGgaZaoNhTL0EyeK_OLOa4stuDteJmYwui9xZH_IettnQkOPPUMl7nnfE4VLKX6IhrTn94EKI1iGXT4sA7y8/s1600/TC7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68h6d3wh5DUExpPTvi8vw3VnPPnqsbW79ECTBNHpgcSwO0mrVounB50gCGgaZaoNhTL0EyeK_OLOa4stuDteJmYwui9xZH_IettnQkOPPUMl7nnfE4VLKX6IhrTn94EKI1iGXT4sA7y8/s640/TC7.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After the ceremony was done, guests started the walk out. Join them now as we exit the forest together... These are the 'new' messages on the signs:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8bIsHp9q9YnqyCfj9XoZxlz-dFVAvBG-8J7nenu_Q73RwTKXK2zmTAPLl-oLxZc1bngeDmYKa4bTDX-tkHTC52XbplAGwtFEDu4gHYaELAgeur74WTCsrPnCRj1uCfV981ox4QKaM9lA/s1600/TC8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8bIsHp9q9YnqyCfj9XoZxlz-dFVAvBG-8J7nenu_Q73RwTKXK2zmTAPLl-oLxZc1bngeDmYKa4bTDX-tkHTC52XbplAGwtFEDu4gHYaELAgeur74WTCsrPnCRj1uCfV981ox4QKaM9lA/s640/TC8.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNNYerdJYdff1hUMaCXhGfF94xihba1MB2rmKQDq7YEhsHE7Zfjsm0Yc-mzav0WawbsBxtIKSCjUa-1ghTZ24HaNTZJY7diMRMbe4awVwy4KJ5IiIrCvDsa7nvGZ3sQKh4OT_ha1k2bw8/s1600/TC9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNNYerdJYdff1hUMaCXhGfF94xihba1MB2rmKQDq7YEhsHE7Zfjsm0Yc-mzav0WawbsBxtIKSCjUa-1ghTZ24HaNTZJY7diMRMbe4awVwy4KJ5IiIrCvDsa7nvGZ3sQKh4OT_ha1k2bw8/s640/TC9.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3AKqE7N3dEy6aVia881AcqlwkVKnOjqKE2oWaImLuMQjUPd4V3kj3GTG-zjh7QD5NRJSTzPd_V2JydjOwT3ZIfDApHGja1Z10s-9jZ3mLVB0Ed3Un0FUPxrStuwecB6weOSewf1Q20E/s1600/TC10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3AKqE7N3dEy6aVia881AcqlwkVKnOjqKE2oWaImLuMQjUPd4V3kj3GTG-zjh7QD5NRJSTzPd_V2JydjOwT3ZIfDApHGja1Z10s-9jZ3mLVB0Ed3Un0FUPxrStuwecB6weOSewf1Q20E/s640/TC10.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6hUSdpQB5pJvRPsT10oOm8vU5uUx5fM55_vQRhDcQQKAL_e1sW_2cVZvJul-HJW4VNGpLqsqZnT2sC11YG0L-UzCnIIWgZDIVp8Y817516-X3I00etZlJJnS-sLb9yOQAE-WrlcEqF4A/s1600/TC11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6hUSdpQB5pJvRPsT10oOm8vU5uUx5fM55_vQRhDcQQKAL_e1sW_2cVZvJul-HJW4VNGpLqsqZnT2sC11YG0L-UzCnIIWgZDIVp8Y817516-X3I00etZlJJnS-sLb9yOQAE-WrlcEqF4A/s640/TC11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHY7p0K6Z7m0-vcBi7rv_9pKea1NKrQU9digveSIqeDzDGa0HlPf7neHRfJHqpuG17bN79JdbxmE7_2qC49u2wGI5zgfmv_yC_o22EcoDNCPE2ubOIcxVRweUhtIgxv7w5XdmLWK8TaoM/s1600/TC12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHY7p0K6Z7m0-vcBi7rv_9pKea1NKrQU9digveSIqeDzDGa0HlPf7neHRfJHqpuG17bN79JdbxmE7_2qC49u2wGI5zgfmv_yC_o22EcoDNCPE2ubOIcxVRweUhtIgxv7w5XdmLWK8TaoM/s640/TC12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-14119543808088287642012-11-03T13:17:00.000-04:002012-11-04T22:24:09.445-05:00A Winter's Tale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8MRIifQx-Kme4LuY6dNqcbpxBFAyaY_fWTgNJhoAfmICRn6OaxxHy5BQr-8oVaLXhfW0MhvgSOwgN0kz0oC7a8wJTJQO_LBfoI2ocw2yOHyPtz90S2Lm24A12nSowo1Z4qrXcqkjE9qU/s1600/CH1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8MRIifQx-Kme4LuY6dNqcbpxBFAyaY_fWTgNJhoAfmICRn6OaxxHy5BQr-8oVaLXhfW0MhvgSOwgN0kz0oC7a8wJTJQO_LBfoI2ocw2yOHyPtz90S2Lm24A12nSowo1Z4qrXcqkjE9qU/s640/CH1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another oldie but goodie... this is the beautiful winter wedding we did in Lake Louise, Alberta, almost 2 years ago. I wrote about the skating party we threw on the frozen lake in a previous blog post, but realized I never posted photos of the actual dining room...<br />
<br />
The dinner reception was held in the storied Victoria Room at the <a href="http://www.fairmont.com/lake-louise/">Chateau Lake Louise</a>, complete with its oddly charming 'Ode to the Swiss Alps' decor. Yes, those are pastoral scenes with milk maids and men in lederhosen hand-painted on the ceiling arches... It's a big room, with fabulous, big stone fireplaces at either end.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkm4e6CbubC3ryUShGN3dq7UYfhpY13AKFvIImhGrgzYFpBYc7S-pjC95KBFc0u-n5FWOciGQTKGAc3Zk1vsyvF94M22movXmG59wV6BiX6CC52w4cxrwBopfjdqhTZ39F0Jyxo3THp-s/s1600/CH12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkm4e6CbubC3ryUShGN3dq7UYfhpY13AKFvIImhGrgzYFpBYc7S-pjC95KBFc0u-n5FWOciGQTKGAc3Zk1vsyvF94M22movXmG59wV6BiX6CC52w4cxrwBopfjdqhTZ39F0Jyxo3THp-s/s1600/CH12.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
As event planners, we are hardly ever allowed to used 'open flame' -- i.e.: candles whose flames are not contained within a glass container/votive. I couldn't believe it when the Chateau Lake Louise said we could use tapered candles -- that became the starting point for the whole design. My bride had a vision of silver candelabras running down the long tables and I must say, it was so cool to be able to do that. I don't think the rental company had ever rented (or had to assemble) so many of them at a small wedding before. There were three different sized candelabras on each of the four long tables, and boy, it took a long time to light all those candles.<br />
<br />
I had the actual candles shipped from Toronto and was so worried about breakage that I ordered about 6 dozen extra; I could think of nothing worse than being trapped in a potential snowstorm on the top of a mountain with no way to get more candles if needed. It turned out my worries were for naught: <i>not even one candle arrived broken</i>. I was so impressed!<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgadzG5iQpsbFdEEGPRr7LjRtb4AXMc18ihKaQ-CZJ_pbeHLIhU-PGZbe02wU5JzyXdrzM3_lsD7RI1nv_v9j63j-udjnx4smZ-CoiLJ_cDuZF-jU3s5YTlR5SIKetXc40SnnKQ3xikxOA/s1600/CH13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgadzG5iQpsbFdEEGPRr7LjRtb4AXMc18ihKaQ-CZJ_pbeHLIhU-PGZbe02wU5JzyXdrzM3_lsD7RI1nv_v9j63j-udjnx4smZ-CoiLJ_cDuZF-jU3s5YTlR5SIKetXc40SnnKQ3xikxOA/s1600/CH13.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheQpS1_8s9SIi3n6BxZlYmJz8OLi25cZNzVymvxmxhluObwZPI-yIUN-T5BpDtj7FQ35oIMv-0SAE1wkJfHIu9hu7p1W8ArET0Jl8vFa74aPZQ0tqAoD91-AcUrTwdtDR9bhdUbe2mTQQ/s1600/CH15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheQpS1_8s9SIi3n6BxZlYmJz8OLi25cZNzVymvxmxhluObwZPI-yIUN-T5BpDtj7FQ35oIMv-0SAE1wkJfHIu9hu7p1W8ArET0Jl8vFa74aPZQ0tqAoD91-AcUrTwdtDR9bhdUbe2mTQQ/s640/CH15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Heather Simms from <a href="http://www.thenosegay.com/">The Nosegay</a> in Calgary did a lovely job with the all-white flower vision: each glass vase held a single kind of white flower: tulips, ranunculus, amarylis, anemones, hydrangea, roses and, honestly, it was so long ago now, I can't remember what else!! But, as you can see, there were a lot of them... Heather and her team were real troopers -- they drove up to us in a ferocious storm with all the precious cargo on a drive that should've taken 2.5 hours and instead took 5. Ahhh... the joys of destination AND winter weddings...<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1cfFIFnZXVnSDjlf_fmRREb6AZszxFtexYbMzRYmEcbE5l1lr7Osrbo2UITEtD18uX0wCUg-x4ZXjuVR4m9X9dUzHNFQ9dCzSDmjo1AwTqvxSvja1sIShD5nyfPZsvebKyvn9NqxNQFk/s1600/CH16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1cfFIFnZXVnSDjlf_fmRREb6AZszxFtexYbMzRYmEcbE5l1lr7Osrbo2UITEtD18uX0wCUg-x4ZXjuVR4m9X9dUzHNFQ9dCzSDmjo1AwTqvxSvja1sIShD5nyfPZsvebKyvn9NqxNQFk/s1600/CH16.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love this photo... it shows a close up of the table setting AND the million-dollar view in the background.<br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtTwYrVUwZjV690jGXDTk_bFqQ2gABCZnx00O5lA2hOkHNk0zcSpwPFJf0s5lIlb6mRGsWGX1GapMDQ8SsUewpR6MfXRzgjQbnW8Gkzq-2VDDlcn2FVQ-FPbD7TJacTOvJ-aRv1k5qTKU/s1600/CH11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtTwYrVUwZjV690jGXDTk_bFqQ2gABCZnx00O5lA2hOkHNk0zcSpwPFJf0s5lIlb6mRGsWGX1GapMDQ8SsUewpR6MfXRzgjQbnW8Gkzq-2VDDlcn2FVQ-FPbD7TJacTOvJ-aRv1k5qTKU/s1600/CH11.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is a close up of the menu that carried on our winter-wedding-themed stationery, created by Julie and Christian of <a href="http://www.pantrypress.com/">Pantry Press</a>. Everything we did represented 'tracks' pressed into fresh snow: The invites themselves had ski and dog tracks (taken from a real photo my bride and groom took after they skied down a run, accompanied by their black lab, Fernie). The weekend activites card showed footprints going to and from snow angels and the travel detail insert showed skate tracks in the ice. So very, very Canadian of us!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwANpIlw3u2ph_f_wklWBnSoN2JVT_F4qyAOW26RsmJT0SANgl1-3PDt_zigJV8MfhgCdeUBmWb2gqS4d1HScBMZw_Zx45fOwUSI7wpNdM41HrGm4BYWIaUuaIC8m35NrOWInytVH6vM/s1600/CH8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwANpIlw3u2ph_f_wklWBnSoN2JVT_F4qyAOW26RsmJT0SANgl1-3PDt_zigJV8MfhgCdeUBmWb2gqS4d1HScBMZw_Zx45fOwUSI7wpNdM41HrGm4BYWIaUuaIC8m35NrOWInytVH6vM/s640/CH8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl3iBEds-ZQ5cqyensMftfRdkAFTV2LyM0k4hiEsdpo18vX3zz8bBmgR3YsSv32HvkpWeEzUV7nbekf3FYwMRQsqdHGigcKYCBTdecNDDb0F1jRZd86vpQG1_aYajzMROt8pk0HFgeZe4/s1600/CH3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl3iBEds-ZQ5cqyensMftfRdkAFTV2LyM0k4hiEsdpo18vX3zz8bBmgR3YsSv32HvkpWeEzUV7nbekf3FYwMRQsqdHGigcKYCBTdecNDDb0F1jRZd86vpQG1_aYajzMROt8pk0HFgeZe4/s640/CH3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
These photos are kind of fun... showing the room once all the guests sat down for dinner. "Sat down" was a relative term, as there was a whole lot of shakin' going on that night.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02eHR2TYi8LC4UnW42mKQ_MCw9cjGtAd5_yJwnxuaQ7e6WHDTVfLGxCjo-WDWzdOUbCPo4m4TdRblmsPp8xIIwSCrzHHiETAl8sBDQnx835N0-yn2nrRTYD5gwPfAzNuNlOScVu6B5F8/s1600/CH6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02eHR2TYi8LC4UnW42mKQ_MCw9cjGtAd5_yJwnxuaQ7e6WHDTVfLGxCjo-WDWzdOUbCPo4m4TdRblmsPp8xIIwSCrzHHiETAl8sBDQnx835N0-yn2nrRTYD5gwPfAzNuNlOScVu6B5F8/s1600/CH6.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCrnvSB2lZAgYZtlw7aKCQLbW3LKYoADakjmjT4MMLQ-5FNDcJTlLIdqmgT_UgJYNF_EiBOZdRmKuJwBGjXPJFc1ZFpsMnU41R9RV_czI2lMbMJMdmwXorQAAU-LzbH9RveTdEdJBKLY/s1600/CH7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCrnvSB2lZAgYZtlw7aKCQLbW3LKYoADakjmjT4MMLQ-5FNDcJTlLIdqmgT_UgJYNF_EiBOZdRmKuJwBGjXPJFc1ZFpsMnU41R9RV_czI2lMbMJMdmwXorQAAU-LzbH9RveTdEdJBKLY/s640/CH7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally a couple of shots of my wonderful couple. Baby, it might have been cold outside, but inside it was cozy and warm and everyone felt the love radiating from them, all weekend long.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Thank you to our friend <a href="http://www.phototerra.com/">Michael Greenberg</a> for coming along on our Rocky Mountain <span style="font-size: xx-small;">A</span>dventure and preserving the memories so beautifully. It was magic, pure and simple, and you captured every <span style="font-size: xx-small;">moment </span>of it.</span><br />
<br />Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-50226108987441331522012-10-06T16:12:00.001-04:002012-10-06T16:12:59.778-04:00The Inaugural Friendship Ball<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW5n41r9mi1uakL8LG8L_Zk56oFs_qdogqxSLurqol7EBeWd_FMnqoJmC8NEQdZ85PRvvcVaGD5oCH1A2XeYTZjEBuoGAeb4nLsznO7KZk1_kfTLBpxIQKQuJOXzjv8-aIPXJnvd5F7Es/s1600/FB1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW5n41r9mi1uakL8LG8L_Zk56oFs_qdogqxSLurqol7EBeWd_FMnqoJmC8NEQdZ85PRvvcVaGD5oCH1A2XeYTZjEBuoGAeb4nLsznO7KZk1_kfTLBpxIQKQuJOXzjv8-aIPXJnvd5F7Es/s640/FB1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The new Four Seasons Hotel opened in Toronto yesterday; and weirdly, that got me feeling nostalgic for the old ballroom that hosted many of the city's greatest parties in it's 30-odd years of existence. One of those parties was a couple of years ago -- I never blogged about it, but it was one of those Great Ones, mostly because of it's purpose to celebrate friends & family and the journey that you take with these people over the course of a lifetime.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our hostess, aka The Queen, was thinking about her friends and realizing that, as most of them were in their late seventies and early eighties, it was high time to throw a big bash to honour them and what they've meant to each other. In fact, many of the guests had been their friends for more than sixty years... and if that isn't something to recognize and commemorate, then what is?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6TXc0EfMdl6Y2v2ZQuluYJZEm7kh7i0mTwgtC5ZSA7YF8Ds1U5HuxzcFPiOHWiz711xmybI5RTaol7frNBXvRkgnKpi_r8w1Kp-Bc4SAp4z-knUFRk4t1oW7N8CoLPKTkLD4WQdU7YT0/s1600/FB10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6TXc0EfMdl6Y2v2ZQuluYJZEm7kh7i0mTwgtC5ZSA7YF8Ds1U5HuxzcFPiOHWiz711xmybI5RTaol7frNBXvRkgnKpi_r8w1Kp-Bc4SAp4z-knUFRk4t1oW7N8CoLPKTkLD4WQdU7YT0/s640/FB10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So The Queen starting thinking about her theme and came up with The Inaugural Friendship Ball. She then set to making it as big and grand as she possibly could, with a decidedly English-take on Royalty. This included the Royal Crest she had designed for all the stationery, shown here on the menu. "Vive, Ride, Ana... or Live, Laugh, Love." </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We had such fun thinking up ridiculously over-the-top clichéed takes on all-things-British. We had Bobbys (policemen) greeting the cars in valet, Beefeaters in the hotel lobby, Palace Guards at the top of the escalator, butlers in tails announcing each couple to their Royal Highnesses as they sat on their thrones. Here are a few of those details:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUFfXgRAstx2J41p7jUf7neYKPyz9N2ZfL-sl_6uDrh_Mr7G8oo6UdAClzb1DqrD6zQPs7oOi9QrheVsPHMSEby6d9EQyTnSpqfRr0Px2gt6Iykp9Oud3t0VCWPCkoL5pSB8jl8y-Ybo/s1600/FB2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUFfXgRAstx2J41p7jUf7neYKPyz9N2ZfL-sl_6uDrh_Mr7G8oo6UdAClzb1DqrD6zQPs7oOi9QrheVsPHMSEby6d9EQyTnSpqfRr0Px2gt6Iykp9Oud3t0VCWPCkoL5pSB8jl8y-Ybo/s640/FB2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgItjtK_TweQCWsGT4VjphrKcAlt16avTAVxFn6FLRphKWuoS5ruuevfTNx257InxADT-j3M-c8crV8kZybrelqzzhnA6jP92jNsAngKuZwLpukuvK1thjZas321K84Zcug4WnfQfaGc0s/s1600/FB4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgItjtK_TweQCWsGT4VjphrKcAlt16avTAVxFn6FLRphKWuoS5ruuevfTNx257InxADT-j3M-c8crV8kZybrelqzzhnA6jP92jNsAngKuZwLpukuvK1thjZas321K84Zcug4WnfQfaGc0s/s640/FB4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOa4pPXLQJdK8Bq9_eBuEUgMSQVzeG-CKnKld5YTx5jZN7g_7ZY-YOyE-J0XRC7meIkaG2s21dS2bgI7esjcO3a_kFbTtcveRvioNfAK44MpDNQ-pU0mL0Mtb5e-O7zsRsoI45BqqE_Jk/s1600/FB3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOa4pPXLQJdK8Bq9_eBuEUgMSQVzeG-CKnKld5YTx5jZN7g_7ZY-YOyE-J0XRC7meIkaG2s21dS2bgI7esjcO3a_kFbTtcveRvioNfAK44MpDNQ-pU0mL0Mtb5e-O7zsRsoI45BqqE_Jk/s640/FB3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To interject a bit of Canada in there, we had to have Mounties, of course, and even had a Parade of Nations! The Mounties carried in each of the 12 different flags that represented the various nationalities of the guests in attendance. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXcFYL34LS9PzKL8-s2WVj8UjmGmRhA6HLzw8Gp8WRg6q7sWX-ywg7xNKAgnUj5_fH_7JXRE7DoPVkkUCfeitIzp3LidYdD2CwbkUG8K5zMJN2UAKOVTe5uNDQ-_vc-QUGOFHH7Ge0KE/s1600/FB6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXcFYL34LS9PzKL8-s2WVj8UjmGmRhA6HLzw8Gp8WRg6q7sWX-ywg7xNKAgnUj5_fH_7JXRE7DoPVkkUCfeitIzp3LidYdD2CwbkUG8K5zMJN2UAKOVTe5uNDQ-_vc-QUGOFHH7Ge0KE/s640/FB6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The room was decorated with chandeliers and gold and crystal at every
turn. Not exactly what we would do at a wedding, but it suited the theme
and the purpose perfectly.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XgLBITKJ7UliWV7FsX-8Z_oQrxNkb61sQE5P5IPtPNBDGBbiNYN8d7rXAZcL513L5_edrAsycCOjoG5s-R-GCS6TXVxQZk3xG4HN04JhoxQnug9Y1_pVVzr4_7oHwOHcQU-lXOaqUo0/s1600/FB13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XgLBITKJ7UliWV7FsX-8Z_oQrxNkb61sQE5P5IPtPNBDGBbiNYN8d7rXAZcL513L5_edrAsycCOjoG5s-R-GCS6TXVxQZk3xG4HN04JhoxQnug9Y1_pVVzr4_7oHwOHcQU-lXOaqUo0/s640/FB13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhpSwDlKUXMQPbLDN2tw4jU603iJfGz0yzOqdYZavI3mh3QP-yk4EcPwyWiAOBcgQXsaalQ-ElXqgo7KPyZkqxqZ_T4vapADZMDcEQdnSTfWAy6rfTybY8lrFJRc4DgjESSRioAynlRHE/s1600/FB12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhpSwDlKUXMQPbLDN2tw4jU603iJfGz0yzOqdYZavI3mh3QP-yk4EcPwyWiAOBcgQXsaalQ-ElXqgo7KPyZkqxqZ_T4vapADZMDcEQdnSTfWAy6rfTybY8lrFJRc4DgjESSRioAynlRHE/s640/FB12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZzCBudzODC3_rv6BOZjmo65L9DXof7OD1iYls2JQP5rf3xRGyK_iEKUV7_3p8G_gRh93qp7kgbdLfnkpLkRrNtH1y318or7BGH3Wm87iXiV3nUDdRuYLUBRJUbwmfFhYcGmWWUkROpQ/s1600/FB7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZzCBudzODC3_rv6BOZjmo65L9DXof7OD1iYls2JQP5rf3xRGyK_iEKUV7_3p8G_gRh93qp7kgbdLfnkpLkRrNtH1y318or7BGH3Wm87iXiV3nUDdRuYLUBRJUbwmfFhYcGmWWUkROpQ/s640/FB7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Did I mention that all the guests were told to wear their tiaras, tails and and ballgowns? It was wonderful to see everyone get into the spirit of things. 160 people in full and formal regalia was a great sight to see.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMMz9r3rOTMgzUbgMkqbAQfa69DXSFmpVnca13oufoxipW3V-piIjIU5IqTTXOFujP_81hlfRPySAIUHDrtGPZZSw7ACNtLI4e8DA6ucPdwCk1LpspY3zhBf1B1O3Zeu3cFJYI0G9RCR0/s1600/FB9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMMz9r3rOTMgzUbgMkqbAQfa69DXSFmpVnca13oufoxipW3V-piIjIU5IqTTXOFujP_81hlfRPySAIUHDrtGPZZSw7ACNtLI4e8DA6ucPdwCk1LpspY3zhBf1B1O3Zeu3cFJYI0G9RCR0/s640/FB9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEircDPfWliHiJa6Mv8fvTX8MDbLrag-4i-e9Al_LJuyzFZlvjenohXttd0T7y0S_6r358YG4vynlnbrx-jV_CixMvZ1XTaS1hoz_Edf6PRgrZpcrX4aCsC32iM_llZPPq_HIdQMLpappq8/s1600/FB8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEircDPfWliHiJa6Mv8fvTX8MDbLrag-4i-e9Al_LJuyzFZlvjenohXttd0T7y0S_6r358YG4vynlnbrx-jV_CixMvZ1XTaS1hoz_Edf6PRgrZpcrX4aCsC32iM_llZPPq_HIdQMLpappq8/s640/FB8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Some of the entertainment included Minuet lessons (swear-to-God) and a tango demonstration. We also had an Elton John impersonator...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF5l8AUELeXRY823nlSjsmxsssM2UzShS-sQjxxfMjThA11nBGwwTr7yr1ola8FsVRvfqKVA0Q_QZj1LP6RErsh3pdShKLAO4Vy-uU9prJiEkrle_fkOxWe5wI_npc7DJNE2F_vidHgrM/s1600/FB5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF5l8AUELeXRY823nlSjsmxsssM2UzShS-sQjxxfMjThA11nBGwwTr7yr1ola8FsVRvfqKVA0Q_QZj1LP6RErsh3pdShKLAO4Vy-uU9prJiEkrle_fkOxWe5wI_npc7DJNE2F_vidHgrM/s640/FB5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
Even the <b>SpectacularSpectacular </b>girls got into the theme! Sarah and I both dressed in maids uniforms and diligently carried our feather dusters everywhere with us that night! Here I am with The Queen: our Master and Servant Moment, if you will...<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5P_yRjcGXHa87JZlguK_CdB21fftfbVilxgxYQjWVi2fsXlqJGtUrTmJAGJWWTdsWoOfS0g7ItQ4Ut1MNELh5RWy_0bgh1AWaNZs5HIlAe-lZiStYrIfxrNEbm9G-UHH0k8J5k0dL2bc/s1600/FB11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5P_yRjcGXHa87JZlguK_CdB21fftfbVilxgxYQjWVi2fsXlqJGtUrTmJAGJWWTdsWoOfS0g7ItQ4Ut1MNELh5RWy_0bgh1AWaNZs5HIlAe-lZiStYrIfxrNEbm9G-UHH0k8J5k0dL2bc/s640/FB11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Lastly, a shot of the Royal couple with their kids and grandchildren, pretty much summing up the warm and fuzzy feeling that everyone had all night long.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here's a list of the people that helped pull the night together:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photography: Hudson Taylor</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Decor: FIORI Floral Designs</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Venue: The (old) Four Seasons Hotel</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Invitations etc: Terri Kirshenbaum at Invitation House </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Band: Anita Rossi</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">A/V: Visual FX</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Staffing: Everyone is an Artist</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Costumes for Staff: Malabar</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Backdrops: Emerson Design</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-30007681317462710772012-09-26T12:05:00.001-04:002012-09-26T12:05:08.791-04:00Quote of the Year: 2012?<h3>
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="color: #e69138;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">"My feet hurt more today </span></span></span></b></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="color: #e69138;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">than they did after </span></span></span></b></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="color: #e69138;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I ran the Chicago Marathon."</span></span></span></b></span></h3>
<br />
Sarah Farr<br />
September 16, 2012<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The day after our own 'marathon' wedding and a full 23-hours on our feet.<span style="background-color: white;"><span></span></span></span>Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-17953056433744370972012-09-08T13:49:00.001-04:002012-09-08T13:52:23.707-04:00Arboriculture 101<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQiZcHxzKnd1nwjRd0kEFy8Gte8hTF3lsup6by41YrnIfmXll3FekVZH2r-zU2nFkx7ptbx-V-jsYxeeM782mOgYPp7nHWXUc4JCSBBwnKf_kqbE3POqrUHWIkDcyPXnbp6vqxuKW7xw/s1600/Tree1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQiZcHxzKnd1nwjRd0kEFy8Gte8hTF3lsup6by41YrnIfmXll3FekVZH2r-zU2nFkx7ptbx-V-jsYxeeM782mOgYPp7nHWXUc4JCSBBwnKf_kqbE3POqrUHWIkDcyPXnbp6vqxuKW7xw/s640/Tree1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Once Upon a Time, someone had the brilliant idea to incorporate the apple orchard we were putting a tent into, <i>into</i> the tent... The trouble is, this build is so complicated (multiple, massive tents with different flooring elevations), that the tents started to go up 5 weeks before the actual event.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So the family's arborist swung by and offered up a dire warning: If we didn't leave some roof panels off so that they continued to be exposed to natural light, the trees wouldn't have any leaves left on them by the time the wedding day came around. Oh oh.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1aEpO3BvpImcnbMZOW3c-uzeJXknQFzi9BKaO4lm8v4mTSh5GL-f3x-LMQ7tWiwvTX-C_6DT2xjrdUDfyhpYvkA_OuphLKVHUR4PrkmJ6pAmk_7-VAMTkA9OiaLJM2kMvrD3mE5QDXAA/s1600/Tree2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1aEpO3BvpImcnbMZOW3c-uzeJXknQFzi9BKaO4lm8v4mTSh5GL-f3x-LMQ7tWiwvTX-C_6DT2xjrdUDfyhpYvkA_OuphLKVHUR4PrkmJ6pAmk_7-VAMTkA9OiaLJM2kMvrD3mE5QDXAA/s640/Tree2.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of the things I love most about my job is that we learn something new (and usually VERY random) on every single project. This particular wedding is one of the biggest we'll do all year, with hundreds of people involved... but all anyone can talk and fret about is four apple trees!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Herein lies the problem: the event is still a week away, but as of two days ago, the roof panels HAD to go back on; A/V work had to be completed, draping need to be done... not to mention carpet and flooring needs to go in -- none of that can happen if the roof panels are open.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So the lovely arborist, Patrick from Arborcon, started consulting experts from all across North America to see what the solution would be. No one wanted to hurt these poor, innocent apple trees who, through none of their own doing, suddenly found themselves plunked inside a dark tent. Especially since I had personally promised my client that "No trees will be harmed in the making of your wedding..."</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb42nOX-5l78jgX1YnG7OeP-bdHJFgTuOn8gdG_26gpkxOUr3Uytse7PINwSaeNL4qiQ3XrLlXt6Ajf43Y6BaSUtVy9-1HuCUsABZgpUrmgJR1hNZwJcprnwrRZxpe-lqgFpdOU79BOUo/s1600/Tree3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb42nOX-5l78jgX1YnG7OeP-bdHJFgTuOn8gdG_26gpkxOUr3Uytse7PINwSaeNL4qiQ3XrLlXt6Ajf43Y6BaSUtVy9-1HuCUsABZgpUrmgJR1hNZwJcprnwrRZxpe-lqgFpdOU79BOUo/s640/Tree3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The answer: UV-emitting lights that cast the RIGHT combination of light on the trees (who knew that that was such an important balance?) But of course it wasn't as easy as that sentence might imply -- the first lights we got didn't do the trick. They were very expensive and pulled a ton of power off the generator; not to mention they didn't radiate enough of the 'right' light. The arborist deemed them unacceptable. So we kept looking and found these ones. It's hard to tell the scale of this from these photos, but those lights are about 20 feet up in the air. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic75Habuh2uyln6KcrC_Z_QEku2ixqZVEQzU6AurPWUPJG8_OOaPfMb7PSfrM3lNduYUcnx2wclqNkIDGnnpXpHiE8Z2yF_wHvXMU5p15JUemNQ1LJzV2VCDoHFAtszbTKDYgASo6B8_M/s1600/Tree4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic75Habuh2uyln6KcrC_Z_QEku2ixqZVEQzU6AurPWUPJG8_OOaPfMb7PSfrM3lNduYUcnx2wclqNkIDGnnpXpHiE8Z2yF_wHvXMU5p15JUemNQ1LJzV2VCDoHFAtszbTKDYgASo6B8_M/s640/Tree4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You think brides are demanding? You should meet my apple trees! I can't wait to share the professional photos of the finished tent once the wedding happens. By the way and in case you're wondering, absolutely no one is concerned about the four oak trees at the corners of the sunken dance floor... Apparently oak trees 'push their leaves' at a very different time of year.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Again... who knew?</div>
Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-38980915046450694272012-09-08T11:49:00.000-04:002012-09-08T11:49:24.682-04:00The View From Here: Bymark<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkUWAASP100UeExld0ICUl2WvXLHH-_k2wHsNLSt9y03miBDO9wifFk1EjbSw1N06HBUXqYUdfKhoCvASdd-C93j5hYBqe0MWiSTrLloJ25bxmUot-0bGn7g3VUNhWt9V4uMl55hIKDt8/s1600/AG1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkUWAASP100UeExld0ICUl2WvXLHH-_k2wHsNLSt9y03miBDO9wifFk1EjbSw1N06HBUXqYUdfKhoCvASdd-C93j5hYBqe0MWiSTrLloJ25bxmUot-0bGn7g3VUNhWt9V4uMl55hIKDt8/s640/AG1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Just wanted to share this really cool photo taken at an engagement party Gabi planned at <a href="http://bymark.mcewangroup.ca/">Bymark restaurant</a> last weekend. The ever-fabulous <a href="http://phototerra.com/">Michael Greenberg of Phototerra</a> fame came in to town to shoot this for us. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We tented the patio with as-big-of-a-tent-as-we-could-possibly-fit, then filled it with Indian-inspired food, Bhangra music and the guests did the rest! The contrast of the bright-coloured saris against the black tent was just gorgeous. </div>
<br />Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-39452887355461452172012-08-26T15:46:00.001-04:002012-08-26T16:29:41.041-04:00Runway Bride<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3OgBs8YTIRQIsXFcvSI9Ee5VdElbxwBPcAljEz2qGKc2yfaWMr3T2T-AYPO9oGctoGV7c1Egv6xl2ZfoGO5oIcS1sZw7OT5snYYT9fatjGwi4YlHqj_PtqLUAlo3p4ZQN4d8FGZ_5IIU/s1600/RB15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3OgBs8YTIRQIsXFcvSI9Ee5VdElbxwBPcAljEz2qGKc2yfaWMr3T2T-AYPO9oGctoGV7c1Egv6xl2ZfoGO5oIcS1sZw7OT5snYYT9fatjGwi4YlHqj_PtqLUAlo3p4ZQN4d8FGZ_5IIU/s640/RB15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We had the best time planning this fashion-themed wedding shower for our 'Runway Bride' last year. The bride's mother, sister and Lidia Tacconelli and I schemed, planned and executed the most decadent party -- a fashion- themed brunch on a cold and grey Sunday last November at <a href="http://events.oliverbonacini.com/Venues/Malaparte.aspx">Malaparte</a>.<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Given that our bride loves all-things-fashion, we divided the guests up into 4 long tables, each with their very own designer look...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaP7R_edMqT992UlCjaTiCuucx1P9Dkaq_neuyFJM9n4HCxuzi51gTYk2WpHMqYM4d2G86NEnNjpdtYsSRCSf5Gkl4tsva3nsgCDvJW2HwwQQCKQRUKqZqRGpNe5IsQgLUBP-pSs312Iw/s1600/RB9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaP7R_edMqT992UlCjaTiCuucx1P9Dkaq_neuyFJM9n4HCxuzi51gTYk2WpHMqYM4d2G86NEnNjpdtYsSRCSf5Gkl4tsva3nsgCDvJW2HwwQQCKQRUKqZqRGpNe5IsQgLUBP-pSs312Iw/s640/RB9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
First up: Chanel with the classic 'tweed' runner (printed digitally, of course, by our friends over at <a href="http://www.emersondesign.com/fabric.html">Emerson Design</a>), adorned with the pouffiest, whitest hydrangeas I've seen in a long time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheensblhtiVkEBEJ0ErzcBt-orG3RMGHC5hUu2kxSDV0e-mGRt1wtP8BQChLTJKNSVkofhR6Cyx2enQm9T8Nm_CRf6JFmOLjt0AsP96ng5w-1uSdaUER95hyphenhyphenrNbkMeb0azSsZvPI_XS90/s1600/RB8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheensblhtiVkEBEJ0ErzcBt-orG3RMGHC5hUu2kxSDV0e-mGRt1wtP8BQChLTJKNSVkofhR6Cyx2enQm9T8Nm_CRf6JFmOLjt0AsP96ng5w-1uSdaUER95hyphenhyphenrNbkMeb0azSsZvPI_XS90/s640/RB8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Next: Missoni. It's hard to tell from this angle, but Lidia arranged the carnations in the famous zig-zag pattern all down the troughs as well.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF9kPoA5xfCCO5R__JQhwJdz5Q_AcYAiTGl0DJnskg99o4zMHdYH5ueOLbAFGHC9VZXxRReQr1VIYGsmfioMG2CaJfrXRrC4yAmZ09YjJfp7fSHxtIWzeZK96Lz74LD8BtDwNYY6UyaPU/s1600/RB7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF9kPoA5xfCCO5R__JQhwJdz5Q_AcYAiTGl0DJnskg99o4zMHdYH5ueOLbAFGHC9VZXxRReQr1VIYGsmfioMG2CaJfrXRrC4yAmZ09YjJfp7fSHxtIWzeZK96Lz74LD8BtDwNYY6UyaPU/s640/RB7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Dolce & Gabbana had their signature leopard print and red, red roses...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4UVs0Sz8rIUhSp0EFvOx6A-LzOiCATx2Rm5z8ehU61y2ojeQtvcmq50JPLehINKtzFMV_FbniBIf50l9TbWIOrryw7hgojtS7CuO_adLkZzE1WIIQKTUv-kDUCWRL0pvrtyaG_d0Pupc/s1600/RB6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4UVs0Sz8rIUhSp0EFvOx6A-LzOiCATx2Rm5z8ehU61y2ojeQtvcmq50JPLehINKtzFMV_FbniBIf50l9TbWIOrryw7hgojtS7CuO_adLkZzE1WIIQKTUv-kDUCWRL0pvrtyaG_d0Pupc/s640/RB6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And finally, the Marc Jacobs table, in honour of our bride's favourite perfume: Daisy. To keep the look consistent, every table had the same core elements: black ghost chairs from <a href="http://cfrentals.com/">Contemporary Furniture Rentals</a>, black linens from <a href="http://aroundthetable.ca/">Around the Table</a> and black lucite troughs from <a href="http://fiorifloral.com/">FIORI</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg43Cw73jGAhqJtxtAoBf2y6w4FF5GwyX__JlxvEtpPbZIUMJXyyQuM_AeQbNj788lyExkeCcARDKso_hF1cUkFWCneeGKMKVpWv8Crfyqhl0SLJeDtsCY_BzHBJ72FLOUBdi1YOel4uUk/s1600/RB18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg43Cw73jGAhqJtxtAoBf2y6w4FF5GwyX__JlxvEtpPbZIUMJXyyQuM_AeQbNj788lyExkeCcARDKso_hF1cUkFWCneeGKMKVpWv8Crfyqhl0SLJeDtsCY_BzHBJ72FLOUBdi1YOel4uUk/s640/RB18.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When guests arrived, they were treated to passed 'breakfast' hors d'oeuvre: this photo shows the yummy, mini-french toast on skewers, complete with real maple syrup in the bottom of the cups.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0NK8jXyO5tPYgJVtSngjip_rLxwevCLJ2nUIs_7aIVDWGKNqqFV9nrorpVcFq9zXtq3RyFCdlfLSxALKOHZ9r0xsMC-kX3Dhba-ruTttwObUk-z40ts0owERlYQ55YNmFFC-LXbzObKU/s1600/RB17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0NK8jXyO5tPYgJVtSngjip_rLxwevCLJ2nUIs_7aIVDWGKNqqFV9nrorpVcFq9zXtq3RyFCdlfLSxALKOHZ9r0xsMC-kX3Dhba-ruTttwObUk-z40ts0owERlYQ55YNmFFC-LXbzObKU/s640/RB17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And look at these little lovelies: Mini lobster and quail-egg benedicts. The chefs at Malaparte got pretty creative with some wonderful breakfast finger foods. And everything tasted even better than it looked.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy8D7J9fbwHWy3kH0fETNfOrY0n_5f2ZYZIbjLS67xuX7OwhWt7ZLfHu1mNtFT8NYdiDe4knd5y-BVNvSpbXMu1xi7kr-NcLvqPGIsOuImmehuJHiSnNPgu4iqABKxT-ZnBXtd1RWJQ5I/s1600/RB3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy8D7J9fbwHWy3kH0fETNfOrY0n_5f2ZYZIbjLS67xuX7OwhWt7ZLfHu1mNtFT8NYdiDe4knd5y-BVNvSpbXMu1xi7kr-NcLvqPGIsOuImmehuJHiSnNPgu4iqABKxT-ZnBXtd1RWJQ5I/s640/RB3.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg80wpcSC0hTYjtMTE59EkyLDf9DySXjdvpFMHZZWh6KfrJp6CMQpRjSq6BOGp8Bcyrpuh2jXfOuOPZggclLHb9rRSkLgbJGtp0QgeEtUDAc6K2qSrwTFQAlvcpGhVJX_BP1R3vtbvGdwY/s1600/RB5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg80wpcSC0hTYjtMTE59EkyLDf9DySXjdvpFMHZZWh6KfrJp6CMQpRjSq6BOGp8Bcyrpuh2jXfOuOPZggclLHb9rRSkLgbJGtp0QgeEtUDAc6K2qSrwTFQAlvcpGhVJX_BP1R3vtbvGdwY/s640/RB5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When the guests sat down, each place had a 'Vogue' magazine that doubled as a place card holder (the mailing label on the bottom right corner had each guest's name printed out) and opened up to reveal the menu that was to be served, all designed like a magazine layout.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy33SMiHHIolaN77aGY9WZ1BtRWBQjNqmBwG5iX5UMgUvgWkohK4B5hRrGykdzNFZzsVHofdaTWmGyyZgcdbdKBfYfYXJWmvuBT2Sr4B7FoVZKY2BYW5QQAa9oXSoJu9DKtqVAdst-bSk/s1600/RB4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy33SMiHHIolaN77aGY9WZ1BtRWBQjNqmBwG5iX5UMgUvgWkohK4B5hRrGykdzNFZzsVHofdaTWmGyyZgcdbdKBfYfYXJWmvuBT2Sr4B7FoVZKY2BYW5QQAa9oXSoJu9DKtqVAdst-bSk/s640/RB4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Each course was created with the four designers in mind: Marc Jacobs? New York Pretzels & Lox... Dolce & Gabbana? Truffled Gnocchi... Chanel? Crèpes, bien sûr! And finally, our Missoni-themed dessert: Sweet melon and burrata.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifF1HaV7jymII7SiOUEnDv8SoxmqZK_wAvI4glGrZL3DxIKB4L0NeSsLxk0zfy_MIckHCwARf-bhFfLjFjwNZjtJiXreT2EiPQBFvjh5wdn2pjX7zrlksKwphsPHtYk70AtSI6HXP2hwk/s1600/RB10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifF1HaV7jymII7SiOUEnDv8SoxmqZK_wAvI4glGrZL3DxIKB4L0NeSsLxk0zfy_MIckHCwARf-bhFfLjFjwNZjtJiXreT2EiPQBFvjh5wdn2pjX7zrlksKwphsPHtYk70AtSI6HXP2hwk/s640/RB10.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We set up a lounge area, complete with Pucci pillows where we laid out the take away gifts: beautiful coffee table books and movies, all with fashion titles.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDKEIT99PK_lFxGtZzKcmXWjzlvqggNggwZ-Rao6y65LyfZ47oMkIHpYgjz_bO3gqw6IlVTxuWwkE1bkYms3C8Ifd-GYC-FJ85ZzKJUQChUXXYaiYP3PiICid94ccIAcnwye0ax4df94/s1600/RB13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDKEIT99PK_lFxGtZzKcmXWjzlvqggNggwZ-Rao6y65LyfZ47oMkIHpYgjz_bO3gqw6IlVTxuWwkE1bkYms3C8Ifd-GYC-FJ85ZzKJUQChUXXYaiYP3PiICid94ccIAcnwye0ax4df94/s640/RB13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrPXb78md1vMD7Yf5d3cFnBQBRqxcytYlmUwORxzBrQ7T2YyQtRr61RwT7dCsDZYfueEObLx_4pKTbc-DCKItzI2AlYJH7E5HNlbMwAWokz-3cK3xFIhLmj4ouidjl1Et0m_P6L_ohMw/s1600/RB12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrPXb78md1vMD7Yf5d3cFnBQBRqxcytYlmUwORxzBrQ7T2YyQtRr61RwT7dCsDZYfueEObLx_4pKTbc-DCKItzI2AlYJH7E5HNlbMwAWokz-3cK3xFIhLmj4ouidjl1Et0m_P6L_ohMw/s640/RB12.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq5AFfmshMiTeTiWhO8RUduYb-LfNqg-7dPSVDbFPxawD0LwwGRALHfJzY6YbtSTL5PDoIYDL8osWYY224nknM57x5sgPmPTEIjwLzQK_Pn6ztSxZLWi1F4ZUzV8H0yMG9xcWIds1ufOI/s1600/RB11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq5AFfmshMiTeTiWhO8RUduYb-LfNqg-7dPSVDbFPxawD0LwwGRALHfJzY6YbtSTL5PDoIYDL8osWYY224nknM57x5sgPmPTEIjwLzQK_Pn6ztSxZLWi1F4ZUzV8H0yMG9xcWIds1ufOI/s640/RB11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Finally, as with any wedding shower in a good, Italian family, many of the guests brought home-baked goodies. We had to keep making the table bigger and bigger as people arrived with more and more treats. It got to the point where I couldn't add any more tables to the space to accommodate all the desserts... Yes, people baked <i>that</i> much stuff for our guest of honour.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMutCxc-ts2v-N6rw6VC7kr6HufWNyYLfpM-zJwl7aWwyjlnnSIbE6yGhKjWLbT-zWRiMYwAwrV5u8bVKCwhUv2D5Cw1zp4rTvfr__6TF8dppxmhy7TI_AWUitKHV8a1mOJSGASVarMkw/s1600/RB16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMutCxc-ts2v-N6rw6VC7kr6HufWNyYLfpM-zJwl7aWwyjlnnSIbE6yGhKjWLbT-zWRiMYwAwrV5u8bVKCwhUv2D5Cw1zp4rTvfr__6TF8dppxmhy7TI_AWUitKHV8a1mOJSGASVarMkw/s640/RB16.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH4LZTlyPtlubgEQMpsz8kHJRbDkYj-3xCKsCDmqVDLHF7QDU-tkXlLd3SeUKElb_He-yWvkfW-eJ5d_NozRs79y2OI-FJoujx1gQwDlqBI40s2EFWfOPGrORCSRek2H6zBPEXL1do8qs/s1600/RB20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH4LZTlyPtlubgEQMpsz8kHJRbDkYj-3xCKsCDmqVDLHF7QDU-tkXlLd3SeUKElb_He-yWvkfW-eJ5d_NozRs79y2OI-FJoujx1gQwDlqBI40s2EFWfOPGrORCSRek2H6zBPEXL1do8qs/s640/RB20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We did up boxes for the ladies to take bounty from the sweet table home with them, again with our copyright-infringement (eek!) take on the Bergdorf Goodman logo. I like to think of it as free advertising for that wonderful store... yeah, that's it...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5qVNumYgyv2H42p_ZGOSKEDnom6Qe1VydnEpNuUBZ3LaStH52KXS5OwTD8joKViuIkgvx2lET1rZMVVGWsO_f6rqGPEkPJxjahyXGf-xM7792qT-AdLyWwg-eBbh6x6fwt-9tNKzfRY/s1600/RB2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5qVNumYgyv2H42p_ZGOSKEDnom6Qe1VydnEpNuUBZ3LaStH52KXS5OwTD8joKViuIkgvx2lET1rZMVVGWsO_f6rqGPEkPJxjahyXGf-xM7792qT-AdLyWwg-eBbh6x6fwt-9tNKzfRY/s640/RB2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg732UFhOuCLTKbiTPEl2hBZ7b1G_Xk39xoLoItjxgPkIcerH_LPwYsYhqE9olC8K9Aem72nVuyj23RYkh2gx6T4UVK-nnuLSPtxrFWqXo1LwPZlf4Hs2FFT5DTz5yutwf1tgFH0hSZKnU/s1600/RB1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg732UFhOuCLTKbiTPEl2hBZ7b1G_Xk39xoLoItjxgPkIcerH_LPwYsYhqE9olC8K9Aem72nVuyj23RYkh2gx6T4UVK-nnuLSPtxrFWqXo1LwPZlf4Hs2FFT5DTz5yutwf1tgFH0hSZKnU/s640/RB1.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Finally, a glimpse of the paper, tissue and ribbon we wrapped the flowers up with at the end of the party. The ladies literally left with armfuls of flowers, books and sweets! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVK_dxLwDn1lobilTBjL8UeMPaFhQAxYy4cLHw-Q5N4YpQ6Z2jRNNlwHIvCCz4d4EegxYFh7Ant8TcQfi6q1K6A_th-LNJ8uAlbCd3mHqsNJZxUucNMzHduq9mLnm_VPtAQ7HkYs4JZs/s1600/RB14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVK_dxLwDn1lobilTBjL8UeMPaFhQAxYy4cLHw-Q5N4YpQ6Z2jRNNlwHIvCCz4d4EegxYFh7Ant8TcQfi6q1K6A_th-LNJ8uAlbCd3mHqsNJZxUucNMzHduq9mLnm_VPtAQ7HkYs4JZs/s640/RB14.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Thank you, as always, to Anthony Manieri from <a href="http://5ive15ifteen.com/">5ive15ifteen Photo Company</a> and a special shout out to all the Oliver & Bonaccini staff at <a href="http://events.oliverbonacini.com/Venues/Malaparte.aspx">Malaparte</a>. You all helped us create an experience that few will forget anytime soon...</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">PS: <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/index.cfm?pagepath=Editor_s_Blog&id=6997&modeX=BlogID&modeXval=9650&BlogID=9650&action=showcomments&title=True-Love-True-Luxury-Laurens-Fashionista-Bridal-Shower">WedLuxe Magazine</a> featured this shower on their blog last month. Click <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/index.cfm?pagepath=Editor_s_Blog&id=6997&modeX=BlogID&modeXval=9650&BlogID=9650&action=showcomments&title=True-Love-True-Luxury-Laurens-Fashionista-Bridal-Shower">here</a> for more pics and even more details!</span></div>
Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-54923908994203468822012-08-12T16:11:00.002-04:002012-08-12T19:53:37.453-04:00A Three-Hour Tour... A Three-Hour Tour<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiP596rb1TlLkJJeiWxlhhrFY9WMC44BaF1mzKbgbTh1_blf5ceOlmEQ7dElTSTQ7MxX5v225lrPRcum5yx91L-JbVW7ncnxBXGQphULGHQc8u-9ANk73X21srOLhWvf32CDGiqgTc6bE/s1600/RF1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiP596rb1TlLkJJeiWxlhhrFY9WMC44BaF1mzKbgbTh1_blf5ceOlmEQ7dElTSTQ7MxX5v225lrPRcum5yx91L-JbVW7ncnxBXGQphULGHQc8u-9ANk73X21srOLhWvf32CDGiqgTc6bE/s640/RF1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So, you may have heard through the grapevine that we built a 5000 sq. ft. floating ballroom in Muskoka a couple of weeks ago. Yes, you read right: it was well and truly floating. On a lake.<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The dilemma? If the tent is on the water, where on earth do you put the toilets? Our solution was to float them right next to the tent. Yup. On the water too. This post is dedicated to the journey the Royal Flush took that day -- it's Maiden Voyage, so to speak. The first picture shows us backing the 30,000 <i>pound</i> bathroom trailer onto a barge before sending it on on it's 3-hour trip across Lake Joseph...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYAtdp7xqnKuVK_xUgvYbT_7MniL9UAHs2rxwFbEMSeLLdxlgzekEkbizhrzHc78fZi-ZShfyFoF5OgLp9gdRP7Pfnnma8wMZjfipfT1iJn-VqJuDT0_SQrpPnMumQ9PP7mnftgjwDxsY/s1600/RF2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYAtdp7xqnKuVK_xUgvYbT_7MniL9UAHs2rxwFbEMSeLLdxlgzekEkbizhrzHc78fZi-ZShfyFoF5OgLp9gdRP7Pfnnma8wMZjfipfT1iJn-VqJuDT0_SQrpPnMumQ9PP7mnftgjwDxsY/s640/RF2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This photo shows how little wiggle room there was to manoeuvre it into place in our attempt to get it perfectly centred for even weight distribution. For those of you techie readers out there, the barge is 12' x 40' and the bathroom is 8.5' x 32,' with a 3-ft hitch to factor in as well. The barge driver had to add ballast to the left side once it was in place to make it a more even ride.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzt4mf93y8-v5lSnFAk885Ibxo3TQHOaPQh2CpPQMnaH6pvOIOOgmSiSfiFD0KpYq0-ax6nxyeFxgl5Or70L7AtYtiMqoaRLFYGwkb65meXsPe7be7QS2IAQgq_skBd9vTPVXPSfhB3Bc/s1600/RF3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzt4mf93y8-v5lSnFAk885Ibxo3TQHOaPQh2CpPQMnaH6pvOIOOgmSiSfiFD0KpYq0-ax6nxyeFxgl5Or70L7AtYtiMqoaRLFYGwkb65meXsPe7be7QS2IAQgq_skBd9vTPVXPSfhB3Bc/s640/RF3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<br />
Over three hours later, this was the first view I had of the unit coming into view. I squealed like a proud mother, once I finally saw it arriving. It had been like sending your child off to first day of kindergarten, watching it pull away from the boat launch, heading off into the great unknown...<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKlR1o5kuLSOxFZyfdpPtmBxTHXvUGsMBiMweGubMuEBvRdSJkOs-oNrHF_kOSUwUNETL_giHAY_8HccGP2IDEJFtrqUap_qU0QwYlX-T_WIm3VnqB6FU3Voe_IVr2NxX07l6_7R5u8hM/s1600/RF4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKlR1o5kuLSOxFZyfdpPtmBxTHXvUGsMBiMweGubMuEBvRdSJkOs-oNrHF_kOSUwUNETL_giHAY_8HccGP2IDEJFtrqUap_qU0QwYlX-T_WIm3VnqB6FU3Voe_IVr2NxX07l6_7R5u8hM/s640/RF4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<br />
Doesn't it look lonely, out there by itself, slowly chugging into place? The party-goers never questioned how the bathroom got beside the tent... it was just there. Now, dear readers, you know what went into making it happen. (Not to mention the fact we had to factor in that it was going to weigh a whole lot more when it went back on it's merry way to dry land... ahem). Yes, all of these things have to be accounted for: we can't leave anything to chance!<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yet another example of the extremely non-boring life of an Event Planner...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-43267878856057122482012-07-02T09:57:00.001-04:002012-07-02T10:16:09.378-04:00We Really 'Love the Design!'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzYxVg7_4eUN-6W8-dOQNKPQKdhVI50OCpYwSqvyzjsmOsoEdoLYcM1Iry8gKX0GQYEZ3b5kWLuith0U2O_tYFOFZk1MD20dvKnXiK-dQjoZ1xbV2cyIJC1x_4KAR8P92Bj8u9LkL3ej0/s1600/ZD1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzYxVg7_4eUN-6W8-dOQNKPQKdhVI50OCpYwSqvyzjsmOsoEdoLYcM1Iry8gKX0GQYEZ3b5kWLuith0U2O_tYFOFZk1MD20dvKnXiK-dQjoZ1xbV2cyIJC1x_4KAR8P92Bj8u9LkL3ej0/s640/ZD1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Last year, one of our favourite couples called their wedding off, just 3 weeks before the big day.<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Naturally, everyone was devastated, and for all the reasons you can imagine. However, I'm so happy to report that they went away from the experience, went to therapy, worked hard on their relationship and... 11 months later, married each other in what had to be one of the most unique, moving and powerful ceremonies we've ever witnessed. More on that to come... but first, I thought I'd share a bit of their story through the stationery...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When it came time to let their friends and family know they were "really going to do this," we turned (again) to our friend Christine Flynn at <a href="http://www.lovethedesign.com/">Love the Design</a> to design a Save-the-New-Date announcement. She worked with the couple and came up with the wonderful list of things (above) about their relationship and even poke a little fun at the "almost" wedding that didn't happen the year before. I hope you can read all the details, because some are downright hilarious.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyeO7DuB1xPzigrtsBA6Tg5JAOK23ddQfhFw5DSi84x20ZauTdIml_mIF2JZPxWNJ99mXXIduKILIZyyTQntRJuClUASeavyVXYPtYJcYYWTpdTF6WcZCftTQmV_7EXMwlVQsaSNuzRk/s1600/ZD2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyeO7DuB1xPzigrtsBA6Tg5JAOK23ddQfhFw5DSi84x20ZauTdIml_mIF2JZPxWNJ99mXXIduKILIZyyTQntRJuClUASeavyVXYPtYJcYYWTpdTF6WcZCftTQmV_7EXMwlVQsaSNuzRk/s640/ZD2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When it came time to send out the second wedding invitation, our bride was lamenting that she really loved her first one and couldn't imagine anything that could improve upon it. That's when I suggested we send out the EXACT same invitation, only this time, with the original date crossed off and the new one 'handwritten' in over it. And that's exactly what we did; Christine made the changes, they went off to the letterpressers and voilà: the guests got a slightly modified version of the original invitation! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I gather the response was tremendous (it's always encouraging when something has it's intended effect) and the stationery totally set the tone of what was to come. Wait till you see the photos from this one... a true Happily Ever After story, if ever there was one...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-68057624915031405972012-07-01T13:33:00.001-04:002012-07-01T13:33:35.482-04:00Bold and Beautiful at the RCM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrMWSwK1vo5tUPdbPR2zZ0QgMZEmmD3jbOa6Tk6H4WrztMLTqDrW17zf121_eVBLyGKek6j52qT5wknxpwu6T71urHuk9mvkHpNwgkplZML3j6eIm3CeE5UHbltYlUUe5rUujOJALzmU/s1600/LJ16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrMWSwK1vo5tUPdbPR2zZ0QgMZEmmD3jbOa6Tk6H4WrztMLTqDrW17zf121_eVBLyGKek6j52qT5wknxpwu6T71urHuk9mvkHpNwgkplZML3j6eIm3CeE5UHbltYlUUe5rUujOJALzmU/s640/LJ16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's always so gratifying to see months and months of planning and dreaming come to life... and even more exciting when it becomes immortalized in print! We were thrilled to see the wedding of Lauren and Jim at the <a href="http://performance.rcmusic.ca/venues-telus-centre-performance-and-learning/rental-opportunities">Royal Conservatory of Music</a> appear in the current issue of <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/">WedLuxe Magazine</a>, featuring every bold and brave decision our colour-loving clients made. Seriously... how many brides do you think choose red chairs for their weddings?!! We were a match made in heaven. Scroll down to see some of these glorious details...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjee8MlrxgrBdodYiUuYojpLtI-iq0QIAcF15rNIiGu1-VVfAeRcoi05YS4AAN4C06oxrkRlyT8sM938yWWsjZHXka_4SD5GhcC7Bc4GpJrkXW5gcYYajszGHHGaZl5HetcXBUYHWZEVo4/s1600/LJ4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjee8MlrxgrBdodYiUuYojpLtI-iq0QIAcF15rNIiGu1-VVfAeRcoi05YS4AAN4C06oxrkRlyT8sM938yWWsjZHXka_4SD5GhcC7Bc4GpJrkXW5gcYYajszGHHGaZl5HetcXBUYHWZEVo4/s640/LJ4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6ckR82njp1OSHs6FPey6IHJIWw4N_DEQtB-ybVyyubT2kOoYqr2MKYIUnh4PpmxI19OXU6ry0nc0ZYhmuPC_yNyzDiKh-5NYDxKNPicWFVIFj-CuCmfpPXLlITS4ogyaft-bV9rdEjE/s1600/LJ3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6ckR82njp1OSHs6FPey6IHJIWw4N_DEQtB-ybVyyubT2kOoYqr2MKYIUnh4PpmxI19OXU6ry0nc0ZYhmuPC_yNyzDiKh-5NYDxKNPicWFVIFj-CuCmfpPXLlITS4ogyaft-bV9rdEjE/s640/LJ3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Event designer and florist <a href="http://www.fiorifloral.com/">Lidia Tacconelli</a> went to town with this riot of colour. When Lauren presented us with her ombre concept, Lidia took it and ran... Check out the gradual changing of colour of the flowers moving down the shelves on the left of this photo. She did the same with the flowers going up the aisle in the church too.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSe-tjcdoCep9-y6oJua99Gwva8qarhm9Kw2h-__Rm2VlrgMCAk5isbd5iZrQ-rYvoOJK56OW1_x1KWfapm727b5uO25O_yNZ6ELaLr3fN_LZM6Ntuecx1RK4PC4xEwODrrhQUgy10_L8/s1600/LJ6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSe-tjcdoCep9-y6oJua99Gwva8qarhm9Kw2h-__Rm2VlrgMCAk5isbd5iZrQ-rYvoOJK56OW1_x1KWfapm727b5uO25O_yNZ6ELaLr3fN_LZM6Ntuecx1RK4PC4xEwODrrhQUgy10_L8/s640/LJ6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizNXz_0u2_Y8O2vL0PgN0nF4pFpXjF6Q0FJm0rExe5liasVpjiU3W09x2X-NEoFEzgxBGwj08h6SOux3t7tqdMtFvdCEujIm8t0rCIYcObXwCmnbXX_BFSkIYIPwtLVWP6N-dR9aBAYWg/s1600/LJ2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizNXz_0u2_Y8O2vL0PgN0nF4pFpXjF6Q0FJm0rExe5liasVpjiU3W09x2X-NEoFEzgxBGwj08h6SOux3t7tqdMtFvdCEujIm8t0rCIYcObXwCmnbXX_BFSkIYIPwtLVWP6N-dR9aBAYWg/s640/LJ2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love the layering you can see in this photo: the vintage, moiré silk ribbon on top of a custom taffeta coral runner, which in turn, lay on a soft pink (yes, it's pink) lace runner. Notice the four different candle holders in the foreground too and then the custom lucite trough holding the flowers.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgih9OiNyjLs9K9CxA6_jQRMVQeDz5gMaH4-VhoGW0ZHq3JEhWc9zzobSEpKYeHKVuzr1SMIXUFcBoLUDAefMOBRJU1burj1lFnli6oaArknAKX70EpfA-26XPIYw7ExApISuW0FbQz3MQ/s1600/LJ14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgih9OiNyjLs9K9CxA6_jQRMVQeDz5gMaH4-VhoGW0ZHq3JEhWc9zzobSEpKYeHKVuzr1SMIXUFcBoLUDAefMOBRJU1burj1lFnli6oaArknAKX70EpfA-26XPIYw7ExApISuW0FbQz3MQ/s640/LJ14.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hI1YQx3orywVw101ewHS5VIIKQM_ib2axERKZARWoA-STP9HWVvX1m_EEqXsOxrwPn-mmER7wLwnZlqoT-n8NNqq132_skpdOkJ8dhpMgxkFAIdkU5OXfMEwJtDGNcnNvP1XmRLACWM/s1600/LJ7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hI1YQx3orywVw101ewHS5VIIKQM_ib2axERKZARWoA-STP9HWVvX1m_EEqXsOxrwPn-mmER7wLwnZlqoT-n8NNqq132_skpdOkJ8dhpMgxkFAIdkU5OXfMEwJtDGNcnNvP1XmRLACWM/s640/LJ7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The place card table had gradating rings of carnations... I think Lidia said there were close to 900 of them, fitting together to have the place cards sitting atop. In the detail shot, you can see one of the illustrations that <a href="http://www.jeffjacksonart.com/">Jeff Jackson</a> did for us. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A hundred years ago, when I was a student at the Ontario College of Art and Design, Jeff was a GOD in the world of illustration... when Lauren told me he is married to her cousin, I knew we had to take full and shameful advantage of that relationship! He illustrated the anemones that we used in the invitations, menus, place cards, as well as the table numbers, the "Lauren + Jim' crest and the best piece of all: the map showing all the important places pertaining to this wedding and their lives... including the dog park where Jim had proposed months before. You can see more of Jeff's work <a href="http://www.jeffjacksonart.com/">here</a>.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_1664696646"></span><span id="goog_1664696647"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5GJrCkwgiGe3IlPFyPwhkiBOPTHh_XWJNdARcSWaV8Een1_LHqNsxru7u59agvGjiA_atO41hh-kelwQtfIN_k6lZoa_N9AeJeOCprcVHQ7hrC9efm1kuyLHi6uOraI-_sunjHcwzPcg/s1600/LJ18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5GJrCkwgiGe3IlPFyPwhkiBOPTHh_XWJNdARcSWaV8Een1_LHqNsxru7u59agvGjiA_atO41hh-kelwQtfIN_k6lZoa_N9AeJeOCprcVHQ7hrC9efm1kuyLHi6uOraI-_sunjHcwzPcg/s1600/LJ18.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyiL61zQNn97ZbODZxwxorLHO0oK4H4BIalBGjHKCga4g01v6svWkAxl2Imd_8-maGfR7m-9QerfkZk-3JBXaMkfNToGu6xyj2Mnoik9OJUPYK_CcWaOJqXzMHOexvTeWHcqxUktafSCE/s1600/LJ17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyiL61zQNn97ZbODZxwxorLHO0oK4H4BIalBGjHKCga4g01v6svWkAxl2Imd_8-maGfR7m-9QerfkZk-3JBXaMkfNToGu6xyj2Mnoik9OJUPYK_CcWaOJqXzMHOexvTeWHcqxUktafSCE/s640/LJ17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Finally, we finished off the night (and the ombre look) with the cake. You will see that <a href="http://www.bobbetteandbelle.com/">Bobbette & Belle</a> even gradated the colours of the filling between layers. It was a mouthwatering combination buttercream AND cream cheese icing. People went bananas... now I can't have them put anything else in to their cakes!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1HNC5weAauV0IeF15Q79GT_lL_WrBp0JvpfNPv6M-ZrzwYO_jpjtwkLhgX0hDd2Xm296VigwldLPAFpZs2JXRUPceuW8JMdsnc7SsCoayaKwJBqZ0_Vcb6xg_rTBJbzvk4vnRXFe_Eo4/s1600/LJ11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1HNC5weAauV0IeF15Q79GT_lL_WrBp0JvpfNPv6M-ZrzwYO_jpjtwkLhgX0hDd2Xm296VigwldLPAFpZs2JXRUPceuW8JMdsnc7SsCoayaKwJBqZ0_Vcb6xg_rTBJbzvk4vnRXFe_Eo4/s640/LJ11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQq-8YNCuSfsJb2YWRjLGE-WFpyHt2Gv8soju_zF7gDlqIZ-zAugDLwczyD5lGgPIjmkwlefXesoOXhLnWsemsDb5zOqXJzRwRAt0TPV4ZH4b1LJZJBYPqNqvlxwyIooKWj-yMsMXRH5s/s1600/LJ20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQq-8YNCuSfsJb2YWRjLGE-WFpyHt2Gv8soju_zF7gDlqIZ-zAugDLwczyD5lGgPIjmkwlefXesoOXhLnWsemsDb5zOqXJzRwRAt0TPV4ZH4b1LJZJBYPqNqvlxwyIooKWj-yMsMXRH5s/s640/LJ20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The happy couple... A very special thanks must go to Lauren, her mom and sister for being so open, receptive and enthusiastic about everything we suggested. It was a true collaboration and I loved every moment of working together. And special, special thanks to Anthony Manieri from <a href="http://www.5ive15ifteen.com/">5ive15ifteen Photo Company</a> for preserving the memories so beautifully for as all with the gorgeous photographs.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Pick up a copy of <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/">WedLuxe</a> on newsstands now or <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/index.cfm?pagePath=Features_Gallery/Real_life_Weddings/Summer/Fall_2012/Lauren_Jim&id=43251#/site/wedluxe/assets/images/lauren_0000_515_Currie0004.jpg">click here</a> to read the online version of Lauren and Jim's story.</div>Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-44621378092950039932012-05-21T13:44:00.002-04:002012-05-21T13:51:11.932-04:00What is 'à la Piscine?'<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY823NYRM0oYMU7OOQ40l5hWpZkE2pilTrt4KbM73GPOZ8sSWaDYPoUc4KbsbG-oYbWkQLd6Qppyce3BThwY18sGBCX1RqK1XVKcIiSNPmgytsQ0npoJFJaP_hZrNW2PrmjZ7dvr2kQM0/s1600/France1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY823NYRM0oYMU7OOQ40l5hWpZkE2pilTrt4KbM73GPOZ8sSWaDYPoUc4KbsbG-oYbWkQLd6Qppyce3BThwY18sGBCX1RqK1XVKcIiSNPmgytsQ0npoJFJaP_hZrNW2PrmjZ7dvr2kQM0/s640/France1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last month, my sister and I had the privilege of visiting our Auntie Liz at her home in the South of France. It was only 8 days, but my God, we packed a lot into our limited time together. Her house is near St. Tropez, but we also spent a night at the famed <a href="http://www.hotel-negresco-nice.com/en">Negresco Hotel</a> in Nice and it was while we were there that we were first introduced to 'à la Piscine.' </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlmEbtpgKEpK88akYgfKF4_bLXX0hvTQNvRwGvl5lt3rQ1QpEjW505aStjCxfAr8AExvW5lHrAaSOWoQnUGgRiF4VtdAReAqLcMYs7twpQyvBK7RUphS2tHrm7I6LB3xLdfWBHa7juJk/s1600/France2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlmEbtpgKEpK88akYgfKF4_bLXX0hvTQNvRwGvl5lt3rQ1QpEjW505aStjCxfAr8AExvW5lHrAaSOWoQnUGgRiF4VtdAReAqLcMYs7twpQyvBK7RUphS2tHrm7I6LB3xLdfWBHa7juJk/s640/France2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We were out for my sister's birthday dinner and thought a glass (or two) of champagne was in order. We noticed you could get a regular 'coupe' (glass), or the à la Piscine (by the pool, in French) version for an extra 3 Euros. Curious, we asked our server what that was...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2105fCASk9crfCqon5e9x8YjMX_zOoGe2MZhZTlBuxmg0U_4MIhj7C5Zr0oxLfyqGeLJBtto-z7_RaVjBmk8SzmVGzjxAkByHRPtYZFrX7ImDkmErr3x6YUw8OsPWIUycILNd-1IkItE/s1600/France3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2105fCASk9crfCqon5e9x8YjMX_zOoGe2MZhZTlBuxmg0U_4MIhj7C5Zr0oxLfyqGeLJBtto-z7_RaVjBmk8SzmVGzjxAkByHRPtYZFrX7ImDkmErr3x6YUw8OsPWIUycILNd-1IkItE/s640/France3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
He explained (in French) that it was served with ice, which immediately went nowhere with us. (I was thinking -- they want to charge me 3 Euros to put ICE in my champagne? No way!) Not to mention that it would dilute the magical elixir... He tried a little harder, telling us it was "extremely popular in France," but still, we didn't bite. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLv9_Qimx2mzaksprIMwwlyZIZJdbp0jk7fnbAvZCHKVRJNIuqXI4TjMI3DDFASV5yaUEApdbuBwxbUIRmY5XKZxYrdBXjuRJQmAu07EaOkTAlLnHY4s5QcZPRmtsqUKnK0x2mdjZ7L2E/s1600/France5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLv9_Qimx2mzaksprIMwwlyZIZJdbp0jk7fnbAvZCHKVRJNIuqXI4TjMI3DDFASV5yaUEApdbuBwxbUIRmY5XKZxYrdBXjuRJQmAu07EaOkTAlLnHY4s5QcZPRmtsqUKnK0x2mdjZ7L2E/s640/France5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We returned to St. Tropez and really didn't think about it again until we were sitting at <a href="http://www.senequier.com/uk/index.php">Senequier</a> (pictured above) at the Port, having our daily glass of rosé with lunch and noticed we had the option to have it à la Piscine too! So, it wasn't just champagne the French were adding ice to these days, it was rosé as well? What on earth? But still, we didn't try it...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
By now you may be wondering where this post is going and what it might have to do with the events we help plan. Well, your patience is about to be rewarded...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When we returned home to Canada, we were telling the rest of our family about this crazy French Trend we kept seeing -- only THIS time, my sister decided to Google it and we were shocked to read the key piece of information the server in Nice neglected to mention: the "ice" is actually frozen little cubes of champagne! Or rosé, depending on what you're drinking... Now the extra charge for "ice" made sense: frozen alcohol, floating <i>in</i> the alcohol! Oh la la! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Needless to say, we wasted no time getting to a liquor store to purchase specimens and have just spent the entire long weekend perfecting the technique, because I plan to serve this at all my parties this coming summer! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here's what we learned, after bottles and bottles of experimentation, all in the Name of Science: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTktKcqg8ru8xA1RklN3GaxozouMiLGlspsjDzdjbIVm4YwOR9FkMkywfdAS3_GEGHAMCLRo-PzDNgIBHBOyzItVgRVjDG_q5qkzgJFnCwkvlfOBiMb4RNKZuGMbXq3-K8bz2O83Z8uY/s1600/France6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTktKcqg8ru8xA1RklN3GaxozouMiLGlspsjDzdjbIVm4YwOR9FkMkywfdAS3_GEGHAMCLRo-PzDNgIBHBOyzItVgRVjDG_q5qkzgJFnCwkvlfOBiMb4RNKZuGMbXq3-K8bz2O83Z8uY/s640/France6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1: It takes almost half a bottle to fill an ice cube tray (and really, this tray's partitions were too small -- you want to make bigger cubes).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpF646D6ZC7Uhcp_r9AjLcqT2ZM2paHgYgS94lYXVJymrnh2M0S2UTcKCAprjMkXdSN7tFLH5UuFhfjvK-alWKVUKCHlk-WiM3sI-AOpA93OQl2Grx41Ih83cBb9t57AlxuiGm_Mhv7eQ/s1600/France7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpF646D6ZC7Uhcp_r9AjLcqT2ZM2paHgYgS94lYXVJymrnh2M0S2UTcKCAprjMkXdSN7tFLH5UuFhfjvK-alWKVUKCHlk-WiM3sI-AOpA93OQl2Grx41Ih83cBb9t57AlxuiGm_Mhv7eQ/s640/France7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. We tried it both in the old-school coupe glasses and the more modern flutes; it works (and for some reason tastes better because of the ice-to-volume-of-champagne ratio) in the taller glasses.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb35YJNzb3k7i1J7bnniBgcDd6vcW53sJnh9gTJJ5Wgolzl4zKShHi1-1BQcglt8cVzDI3dWRUrNpxpXr70fhcrVd81K5mF51rEz6xeP-nghleXrW9rC8lBFU5noN3JaXRg3LUQ6V2dGM/s1600/France8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb35YJNzb3k7i1J7bnniBgcDd6vcW53sJnh9gTJJ5Wgolzl4zKShHi1-1BQcglt8cVzDI3dWRUrNpxpXr70fhcrVd81K5mF51rEz6xeP-nghleXrW9rC8lBFU5noN3JaXRg3LUQ6V2dGM/s640/France8.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. You'll want to make a fair bit of "ice" -- because the alcohol content won't let it freeze completely; it therefore melts faster than regular ice.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLs5JT3VGqUiy14FsM9gtobl0_YckvrdkuHhwkd0RirIkKPG35abMMQatNzmJdIhVHUnJW7HcHQiqq8j3utAU-uvBpKrBdMupv6BrrEVDFyFx99OtX3pHOpzlPYWja_Xq0s2XRkTlUoGA/s1600/France9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLs5JT3VGqUiy14FsM9gtobl0_YckvrdkuHhwkd0RirIkKPG35abMMQatNzmJdIhVHUnJW7HcHQiqq8j3utAU-uvBpKrBdMupv6BrrEVDFyFx99OtX3pHOpzlPYWja_Xq0s2XRkTlUoGA/s640/France9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
4. It works beautifully with rosé too. I love how the cubes look like little blobs of jelly...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtnxuqPmyi2PSdQ_E2z3CJNqYUX1S4VzjbuoZGG299XeJUE9nfEx-_S0k6_qUqJQAXb1aYrhoGok6bhBVDr94-_U-x64Z_fq1RdAKEEMvKSrvl3cD4ZCoG1BPUtAhsWcfThkbgRp-18E/s1600/France10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtnxuqPmyi2PSdQ_E2z3CJNqYUX1S4VzjbuoZGG299XeJUE9nfEx-_S0k6_qUqJQAXb1aYrhoGok6bhBVDr94-_U-x64Z_fq1RdAKEEMvKSrvl3cD4ZCoG1BPUtAhsWcfThkbgRp-18E/s640/France10.jpg" width="436" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5. The French are really on to something here: for the hot summer months, both of these drinks tasted that much more refreshing, just because they were colder. And somehow, the frozen cubes added a little bit of je ne sais quoi that we never realized was lacking before!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8QVSsa6XlxoEgWABw7dx_7Mc-0puha6zt6m8BgpaVIBzd-EL0JscM_9o1rXLqwfo2newENVDfFial4V0dnjL7DJIBm4gl11tnrlpDAaM7azhEMr455BSHcYCfGsnqB0nXGL8Nw8A6adg/s1600/France11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8QVSsa6XlxoEgWABw7dx_7Mc-0puha6zt6m8BgpaVIBzd-EL0JscM_9o1rXLqwfo2newENVDfFial4V0dnjL7DJIBm4gl11tnrlpDAaM7azhEMr455BSHcYCfGsnqB0nXGL8Nw8A6adg/s640/France11.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
6. Vive la France!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-69329824851956178972012-05-20T12:52:00.001-04:002012-05-20T12:52:55.153-04:00Lindsay + Jamie: Before and After<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJB0SsVhJVfC0hWZOz4S9p4fo24aE_Ht9B4JtYnbST11pgefTMw6cqBvKR9z0_XLHWrju48fvZye0b5kdtgI6BH1ygPfF5PCCsEHr0NqYdysoLBtBnZzaZJc7tsUA40yXzNoaNFURpnA0/s1600/LJ1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJB0SsVhJVfC0hWZOz4S9p4fo24aE_Ht9B4JtYnbST11pgefTMw6cqBvKR9z0_XLHWrju48fvZye0b5kdtgI6BH1ygPfF5PCCsEHr0NqYdysoLBtBnZzaZJc7tsUA40yXzNoaNFURpnA0/s640/LJ1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We had such great response to our previous 'Before and After' post that I thought we should do it again, this time with the wedding of Lindsay and Jamie that was so beautifully captured by Anthony Manieri of <a href="http://www.5ive15ifteen.com/">5ive15ifteen Photo Company</a> and gorgeously featured in the Winter/Spring edition of <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/">WedLuxe</a> magazine. I've started this post with an 'after' shot first (because it just looks better as the first image!), but from here on in, we'll go to 'before' pictures first...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzEiR6h6JNSdXoCoZgdhLl4zixzGp-q0Q0hKIbycEHcI5dg1FHN_T_r7WnshopQeJ89eY4qLmuaBsYtkya8mQhg4_kYXv_f1VoU1QtbWJCjvGEOUCoxqitbCnzT_TLQJtGpvSvJoQersw/s1600/LJ2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzEiR6h6JNSdXoCoZgdhLl4zixzGp-q0Q0hKIbycEHcI5dg1FHN_T_r7WnshopQeJ89eY4qLmuaBsYtkya8mQhg4_kYXv_f1VoU1QtbWJCjvGEOUCoxqitbCnzT_TLQJtGpvSvJoQersw/s640/LJ2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here's the view, looking in the same direction, taken the day before, just as they were starting to rig the ceiling with all the AV equipment. This is the order in which a tent wedding comes to life: 1. Floor, 2: Tent, 3. AV/electrical and chandeliers, if required, 4. Draping, 5. Carpet, 6. Furniture, 7. Floral/decor and finally, 8. People!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSVdGSPteOFtcvEH7cC3mUVNSA2Igevxiv-dX57LyqEQbroompQSu2GZjy3tsj7-aXplItij_ph3uCBo81ZXlRvsdf53QJ6tpjF16AuajVhg-sVEigUZs9pBhpLNG9wv1X3oXfjp0IZc/s1600/LJ3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSVdGSPteOFtcvEH7cC3mUVNSA2Igevxiv-dX57LyqEQbroompQSu2GZjy3tsj7-aXplItij_ph3uCBo81ZXlRvsdf53QJ6tpjF16AuajVhg-sVEigUZs9pBhpLNG9wv1X3oXfjp0IZc/s640/LJ3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now we move to the big day itself... You can see that the ceiling is draped, the carpet and tables are laid and <a href="http://www.nousdg.com/">Gisele and Co.</a> are starting to load the floral in. Way off in the distance, you can see the chairs are already in place for the ceremony later that afternoon...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4PZA5lu64gU6lHHWd_x4bbBHySSXY8k356xNLWYZY97ve86aolL37sk-7fYPWQptHEnGA96YZXYczZ2HP1zMsp39eJ8IVayKQLGlHP9lYsn5Hwd5wvNLIS4rAR7OpebiQX3yTeZiAIkY/s1600/LJ4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4PZA5lu64gU6lHHWd_x4bbBHySSXY8k356xNLWYZY97ve86aolL37sk-7fYPWQptHEnGA96YZXYczZ2HP1zMsp39eJ8IVayKQLGlHP9lYsn5Hwd5wvNLIS4rAR7OpebiQX3yTeZiAIkY/s320/LJ4.jpg" width="238" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQGk6xydy1HwxGgOr0EIQ-4EXuoEfQwkQOFGwVQQy5vytWdfvGawQhQSnPGcDqNY8cdOrTMW4kibtTyK9iGGAnRBF8OAxwYa5sZZLhyVbTbMs6Yeu4jHlkHBvV5ccXJrtVPMounLG0nps/s1600/LJ5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQGk6xydy1HwxGgOr0EIQ-4EXuoEfQwkQOFGwVQQy5vytWdfvGawQhQSnPGcDqNY8cdOrTMW4kibtTyK9iGGAnRBF8OAxwYa5sZZLhyVbTbMs6Yeu4jHlkHBvV5ccXJrtVPMounLG0nps/s320/LJ5.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQTu7o-uIY1rUzD3DqkzGK_rml07OdwH8PZI9xnFVE5sjRLOw4UYwBbbUpa1XlgOJd6e26jZkt7vJyfrc-iluCncH0NnAQE82fxdd3UuhbZ688PXIbd28l2Vaz8FO-h8joyTTbcAWW6AY/s1600/LJ6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQTu7o-uIY1rUzD3DqkzGK_rml07OdwH8PZI9xnFVE5sjRLOw4UYwBbbUpa1XlgOJd6e26jZkt7vJyfrc-iluCncH0NnAQE82fxdd3UuhbZ688PXIbd28l2Vaz8FO-h8joyTTbcAWW6AY/s640/LJ6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This shot shows how everything came together on the tables... our 'Garden Inside a Tent' concept come to life... I always say that once clients have planned a wedding, they'll never attend another one in quite the same way! After you've spent months and months on every little detail, down to which rose will sit in which way on which linen napkin, you notice things you never would before planning your own...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglPMBXzPsG8rCgQTHEmLvfyvv6P7LLrQT4vbd5tLp-UprJxo7MsL_UgRwQnbonVtr6b8b2ei7y4m782xsDqJgpyZhIlqd9qI2nmOFsCT_uRJwh1m9TLkWD3V7LQLwmxK1jRySQP2NMhlY/s1600/LJ7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglPMBXzPsG8rCgQTHEmLvfyvv6P7LLrQT4vbd5tLp-UprJxo7MsL_UgRwQnbonVtr6b8b2ei7y4m782xsDqJgpyZhIlqd9qI2nmOFsCT_uRJwh1m9TLkWD3V7LQLwmxK1jRySQP2NMhlY/s640/LJ7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3uIxZVOA1OYHid5PCRQJa4a2Jqk_JryB68A_kqnGU76FyJFTyILQ9DZi6dRYqkO1NVivHx-manJAbYWwv66tHWxWx-PsYmQxxHxX1mSO4N0iTAOsmzqMHo6yjEED6fHTrDVEEWQt8ZlI/s1600/LJ8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3uIxZVOA1OYHid5PCRQJa4a2Jqk_JryB68A_kqnGU76FyJFTyILQ9DZi6dRYqkO1NVivHx-manJAbYWwv66tHWxWx-PsYmQxxHxX1mSO4N0iTAOsmzqMHo6yjEED6fHTrDVEEWQt8ZlI/s640/LJ8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Money Shot: Gabi kept the vinyl tent sides on to keep guests out until Anthony had finished taking photos. This picture shows the massive floral pieces hanging over the dance floor; they were covered with hydrangea, roses and phalaenopsis orchids and the actual structures mimicked the boxes on the tables that held the topiaries.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJuCdoQr8c8-gDuJQ9MihNRxK0OKMa4V9WJKPwPf6t2-3CaIC2puekJ-4CWFj15MviZzVcpHqcsrU2wCs2tceU8e4SbA4kK2o69pd_J4c9AoiR2rl77X4ncBdJuSXwcV81j1fYZIIQ4M/s1600/LJ9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJuCdoQr8c8-gDuJQ9MihNRxK0OKMa4V9WJKPwPf6t2-3CaIC2puekJ-4CWFj15MviZzVcpHqcsrU2wCs2tceU8e4SbA4kK2o69pd_J4c9AoiR2rl77X4ncBdJuSXwcV81j1fYZIIQ4M/s640/LJ9.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhhbdXP073-lPtkjgOJ0gAhYyKkT-TBgrqWKiMK2JI0136b_eMCA-jpkQVIo103Bu3q_YyTldSvP3C5S3tBImRz5S2JNNCU54EjSnfB0LVDTu1PKiOjpM1BkKVwe3tg7mZFRp-uC-v1Ts/s1600/LJ10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhhbdXP073-lPtkjgOJ0gAhYyKkT-TBgrqWKiMK2JI0136b_eMCA-jpkQVIo103Bu3q_YyTldSvP3C5S3tBImRz5S2JNNCU54EjSnfB0LVDTu1PKiOjpM1BkKVwe3tg7mZFRp-uC-v1Ts/s640/LJ10.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And finally, our charming couple, twirling around the dance floor for their First Dance... To read their wedding story as it appeared in the pages of WedLuxe Magazine, <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/index.cfm?pagePath=Features_Gallery/Real_life_Weddings/Winter/Spring_2012/Lindsay_Jamie&id=38319#/site/wedluxe/assets/images/lindsay01.jpg">click here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-65095246129228220062012-05-19T15:23:00.001-04:002012-05-24T13:29:56.386-04:00Lindsay + Jamie: The Lovely Details<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqoJSIikz6PeGpJDSkkE55ZqpYGv5CAk8jTLIQcoouytiwyP2WQqZ_KgQAuaemgBlDb_mAFilKbF8lThrbvsKKtjmhC8Gzy0S7gbp3Q2jDpnW9t5xWPdKCSahy-ouTGjis8XCK-NB6rM4/s1600/LJ1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqoJSIikz6PeGpJDSkkE55ZqpYGv5CAk8jTLIQcoouytiwyP2WQqZ_KgQAuaemgBlDb_mAFilKbF8lThrbvsKKtjmhC8Gzy0S7gbp3Q2jDpnW9t5xWPdKCSahy-ouTGjis8XCK-NB6rM4/s640/LJ1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSBYQ9am9nOHC14vFXZEwDmhmc3StH1D3n_kXoVqDSAh-EGDpaALVSxc8YiUHhzRzac0TZStbpEoCSJyYHnuYGDiAoG-7xqPPPh_fRLUsVwU73TA3XzHkEjwI4s2ZC09y8kSn2BxN-nc/s1600/LJ2.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSBYQ9am9nOHC14vFXZEwDmhmc3StH1D3n_kXoVqDSAh-EGDpaALVSxc8YiUHhzRzac0TZStbpEoCSJyYHnuYGDiAoG-7xqPPPh_fRLUsVwU73TA3XzHkEjwI4s2ZC09y8kSn2BxN-nc/s640/LJ2.tiff" width="636" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We always hope and wish for good weather for ALL our clients, but there
are some weddings that just wouldn't be the same if it rained -- and
this was one of them. The ceremony spot, quite literally, clings to the
bluffs, hundreds of feet above Lake Ontario; there is no other venue
quite like it in Toronto. The rain plan would've seen the ceremony take
place inside the club house -- which would have been heartbreaking! Happily, the skies were bright and the sun was shining down on this gorgeous day last August.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMc8jL7S2OopXc3v67YRHks1iAsCbAXGOWj3f-CzjCE7RU4V74LffIT6iPsM3YQEmlsSwLkevUjKIKTdj44GQEpQlapLdNkq8F30RrggxzFxSd1JlS0Y7AhTGKnAGb12hOeodc-KWOcmE/s1600/LJ3.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="635" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMc8jL7S2OopXc3v67YRHks1iAsCbAXGOWj3f-CzjCE7RU4V74LffIT6iPsM3YQEmlsSwLkevUjKIKTdj44GQEpQlapLdNkq8F30RrggxzFxSd1JlS0Y7AhTGKnAGb12hOeodc-KWOcmE/s640/LJ3.tiff" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh83KElwmYyi12NqVPoRizh1F2txFZjNQnLMLjuK4p4fHniKSd9IggClvKL0OWlznkF4DvJ4plGP8X-J9L3orTsjrYyVSttHYYU2mSM0zOei5Dq-yxqVuanf0CY4o8z7aIa-NGlyKAlw00/s1600/LJ4.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh83KElwmYyi12NqVPoRizh1F2txFZjNQnLMLjuK4p4fHniKSd9IggClvKL0OWlznkF4DvJ4plGP8X-J9L3orTsjrYyVSttHYYU2mSM0zOei5Dq-yxqVuanf0CY4o8z7aIa-NGlyKAlw00/s640/LJ4.tiff" width="638" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I love these sun-dappled photos of Lindsay being escorted by her father to the altar where Jamie awaited. Poor Gabi drove herself crazy following the weather reports all week -- I kept reminding her that the ONLY time that mattered was a 2-hour window on Saturday afternoon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5gYPnJrSu5Q0Ri8bj0UYRWd_wNpyA35rhidK_qonI6cW2HfnJW3wKMGkDVrErfGTpMd_po29QLjxGXOgdQEQ1APFCJ8AIy1tHVRp6GdLEyPp3mVcKNb17oaJcihmJhRK4veWCqrv0bg/s1600/LJ5.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5gYPnJrSu5Q0Ri8bj0UYRWd_wNpyA35rhidK_qonI6cW2HfnJW3wKMGkDVrErfGTpMd_po29QLjxGXOgdQEQ1APFCJ8AIy1tHVRp6GdLEyPp3mVcKNb17oaJcihmJhRK4veWCqrv0bg/s640/LJ5.tiff" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJnBhd-vAVxleVxu0EO8nX48QWTNXsFjr-NIZt5SIxET0Sh5jJsZWZadINwqI63iArfg10t9zoxHxIRvKLZpus5T1wdPvk3_zJBufhq-oE6cRAvLNLDZmSHtbWFo1sFbrxD-oXodvtNxw/s1600/LJ6.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJnBhd-vAVxleVxu0EO8nX48QWTNXsFjr-NIZt5SIxET0Sh5jJsZWZadINwqI63iArfg10t9zoxHxIRvKLZpus5T1wdPvk3_zJBufhq-oE6cRAvLNLDZmSHtbWFo1sFbrxD-oXodvtNxw/s640/LJ6.tiff" width="636" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Now THIS is a kiss! I always think (after the fact), that I really should suggest that my clients practice their Big Kiss beforehand... So many are fast and furious, when really they should be slow, deliberate and almost sensual. Clearly, Lindsay and Jamie needed no such advice...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ncoil0BEnbJO5m65MmON8_yj1IALxrDCMQBRGMFPBpwuyzKRl2LtfYCI30OZl7l1YnA1FdxpTxWMawccs6pfXICBbyuieej_4E6x-ryUb9lE_WGygW3rs0dBMy8DBucDkM_96XDHppw/s1600/LJ7.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ncoil0BEnbJO5m65MmON8_yj1IALxrDCMQBRGMFPBpwuyzKRl2LtfYCI30OZl7l1YnA1FdxpTxWMawccs6pfXICBbyuieej_4E6x-ryUb9lE_WGygW3rs0dBMy8DBucDkM_96XDHppw/s640/LJ7.tiff" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The ceremony programs doubled as fans; while hardly an original idea, it's downright genius on a sweltering summer's day. One of my favourite details was found on the back, where the wedding party was listed out. It looked so formal and serious, but next to the Best Man's name it said: "My Brotha from Anotha Motha."</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmbNGCwTXiyMdQ7xrUUBxMST9KMyoQHyTLAbWX8MZ11sqm9VZtt8GxgvMzpc4ZykC-K30AgtdBd_FPLeGurZzrneVyFEul0LXXAbgt15JdnbKSIDvwGtHiD8tCb-OZPUMe0T5SX3DjNBk/s1600/LJ8.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmbNGCwTXiyMdQ7xrUUBxMST9KMyoQHyTLAbWX8MZ11sqm9VZtt8GxgvMzpc4ZykC-K30AgtdBd_FPLeGurZzrneVyFEul0LXXAbgt15JdnbKSIDvwGtHiD8tCb-OZPUMe0T5SX3DjNBk/s640/LJ8.tiff" width="638" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUdQtRdfe3SlxwGPZrjPPGz24sY_jgoUdrO58ivQ6U7AmSB9l4p13kb_CH_TwRqCMtaLBMP2-2NpQQRsNwo1j2iTgBOBHcieIUMwQwyNCHQl7b8YtWXve9R8LH4Vv3p4cu8txyk_vKHAY/s1600/LJ9.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUdQtRdfe3SlxwGPZrjPPGz24sY_jgoUdrO58ivQ6U7AmSB9l4p13kb_CH_TwRqCMtaLBMP2-2NpQQRsNwo1j2iTgBOBHcieIUMwQwyNCHQl7b8YtWXve9R8LH4Vv3p4cu8txyk_vKHAY/s640/LJ9.tiff" width="638" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Event Designer Bill Fulghum designed a gorgeous lattice structure that Gabi painstakingly tied all the placecards to. The bows had to be tied in a way that guests could easily untie them using one hand (while holding a yummy cocktail in the other)!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0YE7j2mYWW4m7Xd5-eKh1CAo1fc5HqtOM4hXSPL_B70wM0I1KzAbHnXzOHv46y3QsZ9zlbCZypExZPZgq4nt8mVijw_31qWii7Z8H1ByxByNxr50KGgXqKCKGPthx8KpLDChuqfJrgP4/s1600/LJ11.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0YE7j2mYWW4m7Xd5-eKh1CAo1fc5HqtOM4hXSPL_B70wM0I1KzAbHnXzOHv46y3QsZ9zlbCZypExZPZgq4nt8mVijw_31qWii7Z8H1ByxByNxr50KGgXqKCKGPthx8KpLDChuqfJrgP4/s640/LJ11.tiff" width="638" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1C-XkLroyq2_ZPUayueA8s7QdGmUNbtmRuMmFDBJdMgKnWe7uHaXgzCPvnGGmbFib8D-bA03hQlD_drQYuoVPankA20aBLx8b4cf4v_-XZd7-YMidVuAEo0Tydy0aCeB7MOSQT8A1Zg/s1600/LJ10.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="632" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1C-XkLroyq2_ZPUayueA8s7QdGmUNbtmRuMmFDBJdMgKnWe7uHaXgzCPvnGGmbFib8D-bA03hQlD_drQYuoVPankA20aBLx8b4cf4v_-XZd7-YMidVuAEo0Tydy0aCeB7MOSQT8A1Zg/s640/LJ10.tiff" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Pulling off a wedding of this magnitude in such a short period of time takes A Village. Very special thanks must go to all our partners who helped create the wedding of Lindsay and Jamie's dreams: Event Designer: <a href="http://www.williamfulghum.com/">Bill Fulghum</a>, Florals: <a href="http://www.nousdg.com/">Gisele Sterling</a>, Invitations and Day-of Stationery: <a href="http://www.pantrypress.com/">Pantry Press</a>, Tent: <a href="http://www.advancedtent.com/">Advanced Tent</a>, Draping: <a href="http://mickisstore.com/rentals/">Micki's</a>, Audio/Visual: <a href="http://www.visualfx-inc.com/">Visual FX</a>, Cake: <a href="http://www.roxycakes.ca/">Roxy Cakes</a>, Rentals: <a href="http://www.cfrentals.com/">Contemporary Furniture Rentals</a> and <a href="http://www.chairmanmills.com/">Chair-man Mills</a>, Band: <a href="http://www.ladykane.com/">Lady Kane</a> and last but certainly not least, our Sexy Beast of a photographer: Anthony Manieri from <a href="http://www.5ive15ifteen.com/">5ive15ifteen Photo Company</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
You can read the story that appeared in the Winter/Spring edition of <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/">WedLuxe Magazine</a> by <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/index.cfm?pagePath=Features_Gallery/Real_life_Weddings/Winter/Spring_2012/Lindsay_Jamie&id=38319#/site/wedluxe/assets/images/lindsay01.jpg">clicking</a> <a href="http://www.wedluxe.com/index.cfm?pagePath=Features_Gallery/Real_life_Weddings/Winter/Spring_2012/Lindsay_Jamie&id=38319#/site/wedluxe/assets/images/lindsay01.jpg">here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-845797917963432192.post-67578698237839681752012-05-06T14:09:00.000-04:002012-05-06T14:13:47.460-04:00Spring Has Sprung!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtf5OD5CAuc9ZLne2HBgQ3xt6y3v2UHuccjd5dl6s5THy3NYezhOfB3Z8GaPpYBjI_kGN_Ki3Gcx3G1X-p7ftboW7w8M-ZdkheWa0tqhuruNVqVMMnqu3bLNF47n5NsjCwAK3gjGsHFXw/s1600/Spring1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtf5OD5CAuc9ZLne2HBgQ3xt6y3v2UHuccjd5dl6s5THy3NYezhOfB3Z8GaPpYBjI_kGN_Ki3Gcx3G1X-p7ftboW7w8M-ZdkheWa0tqhuruNVqVMMnqu3bLNF47n5NsjCwAK3gjGsHFXw/s640/Spring1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ahhh... the Prima Vera of Spring! There's nothing quite like it, is there? A season of renewal, hope and happy thoughts of warmer days ahead. We did a rehearsal dinner this past week at <a href="http://www.jamiekennedy.ca/gallery-jkgevents.php">Jamie Kennedy at the Gardiner Museum</a> that felt so fresh and spring-y, I just had to post about it; even if all I have at this point are my less-than-perfect iPhone photos.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtRaBbcVn39VwXQVONEKXXo3rANeAXIB8pJdKRMvZfksZXIFa6dmivxnk5aD-ye8rsFEgnn-ccO2qR1ET_c1BoSQHSDr39qQot59ytt_Bc6XnRTZctFrEm_F05XfjXFXk9txpD_HekzO8/s1600/Spring2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtRaBbcVn39VwXQVONEKXXo3rANeAXIB8pJdKRMvZfksZXIFa6dmivxnk5aD-ye8rsFEgnn-ccO2qR1ET_c1BoSQHSDr39qQot59ytt_Bc6XnRTZctFrEm_F05XfjXFXk9txpD_HekzO8/s640/Spring2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've always wanted to do a party with ferns -- yes, all and <i>only</i> ferns -- and was so happy when our client enthusiastically agreed. Lidia Tacconelli of <a href="http://www.fiorifloral.com/">FIORI</a> did up long, woven metal baskets, filled with 3 different kinds of ferns and interspersed a few mushrooms within to surprise guests as they sat and ate their yummy meal. The result was unexpected, fun and whimiscal... just like the bride herself.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfvIHgNAR3Ea_xLFhCRvNRFI9sci0Z_ETWKGkJWrgRuy0cI9ZaH1Tt9wcm0cUa3qlyv9pLAqR4vS3i7LZBWGmqvU7KLqsxeoC0G6EKk9geg6TpzFq1rOVDudOHF5TtMAKU9dE1rp6FNJ4/s1600/Spring3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfvIHgNAR3Ea_xLFhCRvNRFI9sci0Z_ETWKGkJWrgRuy0cI9ZaH1Tt9wcm0cUa3qlyv9pLAqR4vS3i7LZBWGmqvU7KLqsxeoC0G6EKk9geg6TpzFq1rOVDudOHF5TtMAKU9dE1rp6FNJ4/s640/Spring3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is a closeup of the cheery wallpaper Lidia sourced to run up and down the tables. It added a real pop to the overall effect, plus it introduced several shades of green for us to incorporate throughout the design. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszOISV19McEfeOVhvyxcD4uZIvoiTnxCYm-o8B-y54zk-YIlYkgI3Fgnbt2L7KZQbvXeae1sDjls4qrsXKhpYV7csdJdfkBHUEMj1sQzoy-hvGdTIvtFm_lmJ4huPK31fHhk-7xFFwk8/s1600/Spring4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszOISV19McEfeOVhvyxcD4uZIvoiTnxCYm-o8B-y54zk-YIlYkgI3Fgnbt2L7KZQbvXeae1sDjls4qrsXKhpYV7csdJdfkBHUEMj1sQzoy-hvGdTIvtFm_lmJ4huPK31fHhk-7xFFwk8/s640/Spring4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This photo is fun because you can see virtually every shade of green that we played with: the front <i>and</i> back of the place cards, the menus tucked into the napkins, the wallpaper, the planters of ferns, the votives and, finally, the linens underneath. We always design parties so that the different layers of the experience get revealed to guests at different points of the evening. And we always add many interesting things to look at in case the person seated next to you turns out to be a dud!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrSNFMv7iSMsO_HtTM86MjNqKedFv5uYmG9W52_yZ4Ld6cIj76vG9l9f-XXa8J5PM52aRAHfEYeXud1A9-trdP_Ndyr8jOwjvviyJpqgePgLOOHH58LiqsO2RjWnmPqii4JoV_JdvkCpQ/s1600/Spring6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJWeX0kO-3aozWIw8ONFvsAWUvmXGW-Jnk7HfWJVeR9HBD6lzYNF4nZjsUa2O9NLUc9r4kaPAlpDwmMlbpf8XmLvKzPBACuWHBlxgjdBXg6uFaA0KbmEood10gtq9afbB63XU8Sbc4xDo/s1600/Spring5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJWeX0kO-3aozWIw8ONFvsAWUvmXGW-Jnk7HfWJVeR9HBD6lzYNF4nZjsUa2O9NLUc9r4kaPAlpDwmMlbpf8XmLvKzPBACuWHBlxgjdBXg6uFaA0KbmEood10gtq9afbB63XU8Sbc4xDo/s400/Spring5.jpg" width="298" /></a><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrSNFMv7iSMsO_HtTM86MjNqKedFv5uYmG9W52_yZ4Ld6cIj76vG9l9f-XXa8J5PM52aRAHfEYeXud1A9-trdP_Ndyr8jOwjvviyJpqgePgLOOHH58LiqsO2RjWnmPqii4JoV_JdvkCpQ/s400/Spring6.jpg" width="298" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Chef Kennedy even incorporated my fern theme into the menu by putting fiddleheads into the salad course! A small detail that probably few noticed, but thrilled me to no end. I love to have little touches like that interspersed through our parties. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhWZyTWrtgPRfvfKb37xvBP4mcQNZQAGV3_sKbFWrXr4nXr6-j4lYVUmV_3dbVeIaQ7J5JvISIgJj2ZTjfmSvDNHbmiOr3uNpAOeKTMRhCr3j02X-az1vjdvUSL0kLUW9chy3AYfpwWk/s1600/Spring7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhWZyTWrtgPRfvfKb37xvBP4mcQNZQAGV3_sKbFWrXr4nXr6-j4lYVUmV_3dbVeIaQ7J5JvISIgJj2ZTjfmSvDNHbmiOr3uNpAOeKTMRhCr3j02X-az1vjdvUSL0kLUW9chy3AYfpwWk/s640/Spring7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The overall effect was so happy and joyous; everything a party in springtime should represent. Plus it was the perfect kickoff to a busy weekend of All-Things-Wedding... if this was the rehearsal dinner, can you imagine how great the wedding itself was?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>Melissa Haggerty, Sarah Farr & Gabi Slaninovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12006223546717584243noreply@blogger.com1