Celebrating Love in Montreal

Love is celebrated in so many fascinating ways around the world. These romantic displays can be a beautiful way to solidify the love between partners, and ensure that their union lasts a lifetime. Whether you’re planning on travelling the world with your love, or staying in the city, these are ways to commemorate your happiness and love for one another.

On Ponte Milvio, in Italy, couples have displayed their oath of love to one another by fastening padlocks to the bridge. Their names, as well as short love notes and vows, are written onto the lock. It is a symbol of their love being unbreakable. The key to the padlock is then thrown into the river below, signifying that the bond will never be undone. Imagine all the lover’s locks that could line the Lachine Canal!

In Wales, an elaborately carved wooden spoon is presented to the love interest, as a way to tell their potential lover that they will always provide and care for them, (as well all know, the best way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach!). If the love interest accepts, they wear the spoon around their neck. As Montreal is a city of coffee lovers (or caffeine addicts, simply put), custom sugar spoons could be a thoughtful party favour for the engagement party, a small wedding, or as a gift to the newlyweds.

For those who were hopelessly in love, eloping was the sweetest crime—especially in England, where it became illegal in 1754 for persons under 21 to get married. That did not deter the young, passionate English lovers: they took a short day trip to Gretna Green, Scotland, and married there in secret. This is still a popular place for couples to visit, old and young, some even going to renew their vows there.  We are a city of churches, of green alleys, and historic architecture, making our city a very romantic place to love and marry. A way to spend a weekend would be to make short hops to our scenic spots and make it memorable with a few kisses and other cute ways of showing your love.

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Gretna Green Wedding Photography

The Bridal Kit

To look and feel absolutely flawless on your wedding day, you need a few must-have items that your maid of honour or mother will keep with them. A small make-up bag will suffice, and is easy to prepare ahead of time.

Of course, Kleenex, antibacterial gel, hand cream and gum will be the first items in your kit! But it goes without saying that you will have a chap stick, a lip-gloss or a lipstick, as well as a face powder.  Do touch ups before your wedding photoshoot and before the reception. Make sure that, at your make-up trial, your make-up artist shows you what colour and brand she is using on you, so you can purchase the same for your kit. Also—a face powder with matting effect or oil control will keep your complexion even and smooth.

For freshness all day, a deodorant and a roll-on perfume are a non-negotiable! Sephora has a ton of amazing roll-on and spray perfumes in portable sizes that you can keep in your purse even after your wedding. As for deodorant, go with what you trust the most and apply as needed.

Baby powder and a stain-remover stick are also important and can cover up any little mishaps. Baby powder will absorb any wet mess and blend in with your dress, then you can clean up the rest with your stain remover. (Baby powder is also a good solution for freshness in the bust area and for your feet!)

Your hairstyle will slowly let go as the day progresses, but maintain it with travel-size hair spray, bobby pins, clips and an elastic that you have stashed in your kit. Just remember not to mess with your hair too much, as playing with it will undo the volume and create frizz.

Lastly, the dress, the dress, the dress! Your maid of honour should have safety pins, white string and a sewing needle for any last-minute alterations, especially on the bustle and on the bust. Safety pins could be attached to your bra (if you are wearing one) to avoid slippage, and to the bustle to reinforce it. If your dress has lace, ask your dress designer or boutique for a small swatch to cover the safety pin.

And we always recommend a comfortable pair of shoes: foldable slip-ons or flats, or a wedge with a cushion insole will do wonders for you!

 

Swoon!: Badgley Mishka

 

Our favourite perfume! La Vie Est Belle by Lancome

 

How darling!: Pinterest

Picture Perfect: Creative Tips for Wedding Photos

There are so many beautiful locations and ideas for wedding pictures. Whether they places that are special to the couple, or a must-have photo-op, wedding photos are truly once in a lifetime keepsake mementos that could be shared for a lifetime. So it’s important to talk to your photographer and plan an itinerary for the day, and make the most of your photoshoot! Here are some tips that will make you clicker-happy:

Have a romantic walk down memory lane and discuss the places that mean the most to the two of you. Maybe it’s the place you first kissed, or where you first got engaged. Maybe it’s even a favorite café hangout! Think of all the places you cherish and see if the location is able to accommodate the happy newlyweds for a few snaps.

Ask your photographer about post-wedding photoshoots: This could a month or so after the wedding where a few beauty shots or portraits could be done with or without the groom. If you didn’t get that hand close-up you wanted, or a scenic portrait of the two of you in front of the church, schedule a portrait day where you have more time to plan out a full day of photo fun.

On that note, when searching for a photographer, always see what they specialize in and if it suits you and your partner’s vision. This is especially important because every photographer has a signature look: if you choose a photographer that specializes in boudoir photography but you want more location shoots, then you must consider there may be limitations!

Think outside the box: garden shoots, historic sites and church shoots are definitely must-haves, but what about in the centre of the city, or even in the middle of the street? No, not that crazy! (And actually, totally beautiful!) You can even DIY your own locations! Backyards are the perfect private space to set up a fun for-two picnic, with streamers and even a wedding piñata!

 

 

Tea Length Dresses

Long wedding gowns will always be the classic, beautiful bride look, but a new trend for that is just as charming, is the tea cut. For the bride that desires versatility, modernity and that touch of delicacy and charm, the tea cut is a step in the right direction.

Tea cuts are dresses that are raised over the foot, up to mid-way through the calf. It is ultra-feminine: it flatters the leg and adds height, and can be cut to the length that suits you best. It also allows the bride more freedom of movement (yes—less tripping!).

Aside from the practicality, the style itself has a range of possibilities. This look is a sure “yes” for spring weddings and outdoor affairs. It suits A-line and fit-flare silhouettes the most. Princess dresses with a tea cut are super endearing, especially with full tulle bottoms. Tea cut dresses with lovely worked hems are coming in, with embroidered lace, or horse-hem, allowing the dress to stand out without adding extra fabric or weight.  

Always wanted that dramatic long train? You won’t lose it with a tea-cut. An asymmetrical tea cut dress allows the train of the dress to remain. It can be as long and decorated as you want. Back details are endless and ethereal; a decorated train with beading, buttons, bows and beyond is sure to blow everyone away!

 And imagine the shoe possibilities! Depending on your comfort and fashion sense, a coloured peep-toe or a girly Maryjane style would be splendid. Although, avoid shoes that lace up at the ankle, or have straps going up the leg, as this can give the illusion of a thicker ankle and shorten the leg. This would work is you decide to cut higher on the leg. An open shoe or a bootie that cuts below the ankle works best. 

New York, New York! Trends for the Fall/Winter 2015 Season

New York New York! Last weekend was The Bridal Market, with shows from outstanding designers, premiering new collections and the essential what’s-in for the Fall/Winter 2015 bridal season!

There were many breathtaking elements, such as nude linings under lace dresses, plunging necklines, center slits on the front and (such a couture touch to any gown!) and back detailing with hanging beading. A dress with these embellishments and sparkles and stands out, giving the bride a lavish elegance. The styling is definitely top of the trendwatch list!

Of course, lace is always in for wedding gowns, but we’re seeing the fabric being applied to sleeves, corset bustier and backs: a classic touch with an edge. It’s feminine and is excellent for giving a soft curve to the waist. Back bustier-lace details can be seen as a mix between vintage flare and new edge, with the boning and buttons mounting the spine.

A colourful spin on the white dress is emerging: we’ve seen and adored blush dresses, the pink shade suiting all skin tones. Lazaro presented seafoam, wisteria and sherbert-toned dresses, such delicate hint of these pastel shades that are really just beautiful as part of the dress or even for accessories, shoes and for the bridal party.

We were inspired by the colours, crystals and pizzazz in NYC. Emanuele Savorani has been working his magic and designing since our return to the atelier. Some amazing creations are on their way at Galleria Della Sposa!

Here are some pictures we took from the runway show!

 

 

Lazaro Collection at Galleria Della Sposa

Brides-to-be, this is your chance to have the dress dreams are made of! The Lazaro collection is now yours to experience and fall in love with.

Exclusively ours in Quebec, the dresses from the Lazaro collection are timeless chic with a modern flare, in all cuts and styles— truly, dresses for the fashion-forward bride looking for opulence and romanticism

Lazaro’s creations marry beautifully with the vision of Galleria Della Sposa’s designer Emanuele Savorani: grace and elegance, with the haute couture aesthetics of sensual silhouettes and whimsical fantasy. Emanuele’s designs are made with only top-quality Italian lace, silk organza and soft tulle, with beading and crystal appliques that are unique, and hand-sewn himself. The Lazaro collection complements Galleria Della Sposa’s passion for creating gowns that embrace classic, enchanting beauty

Come see why the bridal world adores Lazaro: make an appointment for your consultation by calling us at 514.272.4777 or email, info@galleriadellasposa.ca

See more of the Lazaro collection at http://www.jlmcouture.com/Lazaro

 

 

Trendwatch Thursday: Pastel Colors

Pastel palette colours are this year’s go-to bridal trend. They are romantic, elegant and blend in beautifully with any wedding theme the couple has chosen. It is also gives a perfect girly feel for the bride’s party.
For spring or summer weddings, or a floral themed party, pastel colors will evoke a sense of delicacy and freshness. Pastel colors are easy to mix and match with, so allow yourself to bring in as many shades as you wish!
For bridesmaids’ dresses, the ideas are endless. Be creative! Allow the bridesmaids to choose their favorite pastel color and showcase their unique personalities. The make-up, hair accessories and jewelry can add to the simplicity of the pastel shade, or act as an accent color. The bridesmaid atelier at Galleria Della Sposa can satisfy all your pastel color needs. With designers like Jim Hjelm and Monique Lhullier providing a variety of dress styles and colors, the bride’s party will be as glowing and blushing as the bride.

How-to Tuesday: Party Favors

The wedding day is not only a memorable day for the bride but for the guests as well. They’ll remember how beautiful the venue was, the exquisite food, how they danced to their favorite tunes and most of all, how outstanding the GDS bride was in her couture gown.
At the end of the night, your guests will leave full of memories of love and joy- and with a bonbonniere that your guests will cherish. The gift should be something that reflects the couple, and is pretty and practical.  Items for the home, like a wine or champagne glass are always well appreciated.  Imported chocolate is a tasteful (and tasty!) choice, too. Your gift will represent your wedding theme, inside and out. On this note, packaging matters too. Wrapping and décor on the gift should be part of the beauty; a flower garden theme wedding will include nature colors such as green with a few roses on the side. The wrapping should be consistent with the wedding theme, color theme and season.
And remember…the most memorable gifts are those that say something about the love of the bride and groom, and their thanks to you for sharing their special day.

Trendwatch Thursdays: Royal Wedding

Something old, something new; something borrowed, something blue! 
The huge trend of this year is complete elegance inspired by historical times and elements of the past. 
Regal and dramatic, the royal wedding of Kate Middleton and Prince William reintroduced the influences of medieval elegance.  Wedding decorations of an antique flair is simply irresistible. 
Table decorations for this particular theme can be in gold and bronze, with hints of Baroque and damask details. Rich colors such as emerald green or violent will give the whole reception a high-class feel. Chalices and utensils can be extravagant, as well as dishware, lined with gold and crystal rims.

How To Tuesday: How to Make a Checklist

A Preparation for an Impeccable Day 

Your wedding day could be whatever you can possibly dream of it being. Nowadays, the amount of creativity and inspiration in the wedding industry is endless, and brides should take advantage of all the resources. All it takes is a little bit of organization, direction, as well as imagination and vision. 
 To begin, it’s essential to have a wedding binder. For an added flare, your binder could be in the same color of theme as your wedding-- that way you can be reminded of it and keep yourself on track. Use the binder as a scrapbook of ideas for anything you like: the dress, the colors you like, the accessories and shoes; hairstyles, make-up, etc and etc! 
It is also imperative to work on a budget. A bride deserves a helping hand in order for her to look glamorous in her Emanuele Savorani dress and for the bridal party to look stellar in their Monique L'huillier dresses. Always inquire about the prices, method of payment and procedures.
 Writing up your guest list could be a long process. When you have finalized how many individuals will be at the wedding, it’s time to plan and seek out a venue for your magical wedding. With your venue (or venues),  you will be able to confirm a date and time. It is an absolute must to plan ahead- at least a year in advance. This way you are guaranteed your place and have ample time to choose your menu, decor and focus on what matters most to you for that day.
Your staff for that day will include an officiant, photographers and videographers, a band, a make up artist, a hairstylist, florists and caterers, to name a few. Like the venue, staff should be booked one year in advance. Do research before arriving at meetings and consultations with the individual. Go into the meeting with a plan and a budget, as well as questions for what service they can provide, especially if you have special requirements (such as food allergies). 
The steps for the perfect wedding should be separated in categories in the wedding book. This process will also help plan for invitations, choosing a delicious cake, music, hair, makeup and all the magnificent elements needed for an impeccable day.