Monday, January 30, 2012

Real Wedding :: Kristin & Jason

This west coast wedding has a serious pretty factor with the variety of soft pinks and ivory. It was such a pleasure working with Kristin and Jason to create a romantic yet nautical invitation suite and reception stationery. This wedding was featured on the Canadian wedding blog Wedding Obsession and you can view the full post here. Their amazing wedding video by Capture the Moment Media is also worth checking out!





























Photography: Ria Hansen Photography / Videography: Capture the Moment Media / Stationary: Pinkpolka Wedding Design / Wedding Cake & Favors: Cake Bread Artisan Bakery / Wedding Gown: Bridal Debut / Personalized Chocolates: Hot Chocolates / Floral: Purely Flower / Live Music: Trent Freeman / Ceremony Venue: The Fiberg Park / Reception Venue & Catering: Crown Isle Resort / Make-up: Richelle Newson / Hair: Cortney Donaldson, Scorpio’s Salon

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Real Wedding :: Meslissa & Mike

Today we are sharing stationery photos from Melissa and Mikes June 2011 wedding captured by JDS Photography. A modern barn door invite with graphic damask ornaments was created in classic ivory and black with a hint of olive green. The invitation artwork was seamlessly carried through into their reception stationery including a custom hard cover guest book (which they included personal photos and unique questions for the guests), table numbers, seating chart, and a large menu sign for all the guests to view as they entered the reception venue.

This gorgeous bride and groom were featured on the Weddings In Alberta website and you can view the entire gallery of their beautiful wedding here!

Full invitations suite

Hardcover guest book

Hardcover guest book

Interior view of invitation

Table number

Seating chart

Menu (large mounted sign placed on easel for all guests to view)

Monday, January 23, 2012

Event :: Site6 Visual Solutions

This post is a bit delayed, but I had to share the photos from the Site6 event I attended back in September 2011. Karin Hoogland is the Creative Director and Owner of Site6 Events, who hosted this fabulous event highlighting the visual solutions her company can offer for trade shows and any other special event. I especially wanted to draw this company to the attention of all the recently engaged couples who are in the beginning stages of planning a wedding. Lighting and drapery create big impact and Site6 can effectively transform your reception into a space with style and flair!

Vendors featured at this event include: 
TransAlta Arts Barns – Venue: Westbury Theatre
Production Lighting – Lighting Design by Chris Baker
Mediaco - Video projection "Flower Timelapse"
La Piazza Dasee – Floral design by Janine Sebastian
Harman B & DJ Kwake - Music
Pinkpolka Wedding Design – Stationary design
Restaurant 27 Catering – Appetizers & buffet
Timewise Event Management – Flipbooks
enV Photography – Photos by Elizabeth van der Bij
Various event rental décor and product from Rivercity Event Rentals, Elegant Touches, Special Event Rentals, Etc Event Styling, ID Bohemia








Monday, January 16, 2012

Real Wedding :: Anna & Morgan

This couple was an absolute pleasure to work with. Morgan is such an endearing man who truly cared about the details of this wedding as much as his bride! Below are some gorgeous detail shots of my stationery captured by the wonderfully talented Kirstie of Orange Girl Photography. I especially love how this couple used the monogram I designed on their cupcakes! This beautiful wedding was also featured on Style Me Pretty Canada and you can see the full gallery of stunning images by clicking here!







Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Wedding Stationery Tips for Newly Engaged

The new year is upon us, and that means all of the engaged couples are entering into full force wedding planning mode for their 2012 weddings! Being in the wedding industry, we know there are so many considerations when planning a wedding from booking the perfect venue, to picking the tastiest cupcake flavor! Having to learn the ropes of each vendor specialty can be a daunting task so we thought it would be a great time to share some basics of working with a wedding stationer.

Stationery Items to Consider
Save-the-date
A save-the-date should be used if you need to give your guests ample notice to attend your wedding. A save-the-date should always be used if you are planning a destination or out-of-town wedding to allow guests to plan for time off from work and to budget for travel expenses. See the time line below to find out when to start the order process and mail save-the-dates to guests.


Invitations
The wedding invitation notifies guests of the date, time and place of your wedding. The invitation should convey the tone and formality of the event. Included in the invitation package, is an rsvp which is a request for reply so you are able to plan appropriately for the number of guests who will attend. The RSVP can be in a variety of forms: a postcard, a phone number or email on the invitation, or a separate card and addressed envelope. See the time line below to find out when to start the order process and mail invitations to guests.

Reception Stationery
Reception stationery are small details that create big impact for your guests by continuing the tone of your invitations into your reception. These products also help direct and clearly guide your guests through the events of the day such as finding the venue location with banners and signage and identifying their seat for dinner with a seating chart, table numbers, and place cards. See the time line below to find out when to start the order process for reception stationery. Items to consider when planning your reception stationery include:
Program
- Programs give guests an itinerary to the day’s events. It is also a place where you can provide information about the ceremony, your bridal party, and where you can thank special people who have contributed to your wedding.
Menu - List of all the items included in the meal during the wedding reception.
Place Cards - Indicates at which place setting each guest should sit at their assigned table.
Seating Chart - A diagram or list of tables that indicates where guests will be seated.
Table Numbers - Label each table with a number or name (be creative!) to direct guests to the correct table.
Favor Tag or Sticker - Complete a favor with a personalized message using a sticker or a tag tied with ribbon. 
Guest Book or Guest Cards - Used for guests to leave the bride and groom best wishes and words of advice.
Display Banners - Create the perfect ambiance at your reception with custom display banners. A great way to show off those engagement photos!
Wedding Decal - Use these removable vinyl decals on your wedding day transportation, a wall or the dance floor! Wedding decals can be designed in any pattern, shape, or word that you desire!
Signage - Give directions or instructions to your guests so they can find their way around your wedding venues. 

Thank-you Cards
Proper etiquette says you should always send a prompt thank-you card to your guests for attending the wedding, and for any gifts they have given you. What better way to thank them than with a customized thank-you card matching your wedding stationary? Pinkpolka Design can also incorporate photos from your wedding day into the design of your card.   


Stationery Time Line
Local Wedding 
8 Months - Start thinking about what pieces of stationery you need and inspiration for design
5 Months - Start collecting names and addresses for your guest list to confirm quantity
5 Months - Meet with us for your save-the-date consultation
6-5 Months - Mail save-the-dates at 6 months
6-5 Months - Meet with us for your invitations consultation (if you did not order save-the-dates)
5-4 Months - Finalize wording, dates, times and location for all stationery items
4 Months - Review the proof of your invitation and give final approval to go to print  

3 Months - Receive your invitations 
3 Months - Address your invitation envelopes or send to calligrapher
3 Months - Take assembled invitation to the post office to weigh for postage amount   
9 Weeks - Assemble and seal invitations with proper postage
8-6 Weeks - Mail invitations
6-4 Weeks - Place reception stationery order
6-4 Weeks - Follow-up with guest who have not RSVP'd
2-1 Weeks - Pick-up reception stationery for the big day!


Destination Wedding
14-13 Months - If you plan to send save-the-dates book a consultation with us as soon as a venue and date is confirmed. If not planning on sending save-the-dates skip to 8-7 month step
1 Year           - Mail save-the-dates
10-9 Months - Start thinking about what pieces of stationery you need and inspiration for design
10-9 Months - Start collecting names and addresses for your guest list to confirm quantity
8-7 Months - Meet with us for your invitations consultation
6-5 Months - Finalize wording, dates, times and location for all stationery items
6-5 Months - Review the proof of your invitation and give final approval to go to print  

4-3 Months - Receive your invitations 
4-3 Months - Address your invitation envelopes or send to calligrapher
4-3 Months - Take assembled invitation to the post office to weigh for postage amount   
4-3 Months - Assemble and seal invitations with proper postage
14-12 Weeks - Mail invitations
6-4 Weeks - Place reception stationery order
6-4 Weeks - Follow-up with guest who have not RSVP'd
2-1 Weeks - Pick-up reception stationery for the big day!

Monday, January 9, 2012

Vendor Spotlight :: Delica Bridal

With a new year of wedding planning ahead I thought this was an opportune time to share some details on the hottest bridal boutique in Edmonton - Delica Bridal! All the recently engaged brides looking for fashion-forward gowns will love the selection of brands offered. We asked some questions to help brides understand more about this awesome boutique. 

We also have an EXCLUSIVE OFFER in this post that you will want to take advantage of! Make sure to scroll to the bottom of the post for your Delica Bridal savings coupon!


What makes Delica Bridal a unique bridal boutique?
Delica Bridal is Edmonton's newest bridal boutique offering glamorous and exclusive bridal gowns for today's modern bride. All the designers available at Delica Bridal are straight off the runway and are exclusive and handpicked to ensure the highest quality and best fit! We have a great assortment of some of the most beautiful bridal dresses for today’s brides. Some of our exclusive bridal lines include Lazaro, Alvina Valenta, Jim Hjelm Blush, Hayley Paige, Lillen Collection, Jenny Yoo and our newest edition, Sarah Seven!

Can you explain the experience a bride can expect when she visits Delica Bridal.
Brides who visit Delica Bridal feel welcomed, relaxed and no pressure; the way they should feel when looking for their bridal gown. The store has an open concept making it easy to shop for our customers. We have three, large private rooms to ensure each bride gets the one on one attention that they deserve. Brides work with our educated bridal consultants in a private setting to ensure they find the wedding gown that makes them feel glamorous and look beautiful for their special day! We take pride in getting to know our brides and establishing close relationships with them. This makes us want to go the extra mile to make sure our brides feel beautiful and stress free before their big day.

What options does Delica Bridal have for bridesmaid dresses?
Delica Bridal offers bridesmaid dresses that will truly compliment your bridal party! The designs chosen are inspired by ready to wear fashions and are available in a variety of colors, fabrics and silhouettes. We are excited to be the exclusive Alberta retailer for the AMSALE bridesmaid collections (gowns are ultra-chic!). Our maids closet includes Alvina Valenta, AMSALE, NOIR by Lazaro, Jenny Yoo and Jim Hjelm Occasions. These gowns are modern, fashionable and fun; and we promise, our dresses that will make your bridesmaid feel and look fabulous!

What trends have you noticed for wedding dresses in 2012?
Since Delica Bridal is a fashion forward bridal boutique you will always find the latest fashions straight off the New York Bridal fashion runways in our store!

Here are some of our top three bridal fashion trends for Spring 2012:
Neckline Options!
Brides are looking to cover up skin that is typically exposed, with sheer, gentle fabrics. The illusion necklines are up and coming and unique from past collections. This look can appear conservative but at the same time, revealing (and super sexy!)

Two-tiered Skirts!
The past couple of years we have seen a lot of bridal skirts with three dimensional florals BUT this year it’s all about two-tiered skirts. These skirts focus on the hemline and are very flattering, as the top tier hides wider hips.


COLOR!!!
White and Ivory are the traditional colors worn by brides ever since Queen Victoria wore a white gown in 1840! However, designers are looking to add a little color to spice things up. In the past collections, we have seen touches of silvers, lilacs and greens in bridal gowns. This season, we are seeing that gowns look fabulous in other colors besides white…especially BLUSH!

    What are some tips to help brides starting the search for the perfect wedding dress?
    Don’t come in on your first visit with too many critics. We often see brides come in with a huge entourage making it hard for the bride because of too many opinions. Although it’s a lot of fun to involve the people that matter most with helping you find that special gown, it will be a lot easier for you to come with one or two people; These people should be the ones that give you their honest opinion and truly know your style and wedding inspiration. Our tip is to bring the entourage when your actual gown arrives in store, after you have already committed to it!

    If you have a budget that you don’t want to go over, let your consultant know. This helps ensure you don’t fall in love with a gown that is out of your budget and leaves you disappointed. We have beautiful gowns in our store that range from $1000-$6500.00, allowing fabulous options for everyone! Our tip is to be honest and don’t be shy to express your true budget. We do our best to accommodate all brides.

    Before you ask your closest gals to stand up for you in your wedding, it’s a great idea to inform them about the financial costs involved. The average bridesmaid dress in Canada ranges between $225.00 and $400.00. The financial commitment can become quite large with a dress, shoes, hair and makeup! Your girls will appreciate it more knowing the costs beforehand, then finding out after you chosen their bridesmaid dress! Our tip is to involve your bridesmaids in picking their gowns to make sure everyone is happy with the look and the cost.

      Wednesday, January 4, 2012

      Vendor Spotlight :: Bluebird Cakes

      I first discovered Bluebird Cakes through the wonders of social media. I noticed other industry vendors talking about this new company and when I checked it out I first loved their adorable logo and then fell further in love with all the beautiful sweets! I got a chance to work with Amanda of Bluebird Cakes for my best friends baby shower where she created custom sugar cookie favors. Because I am such a huge fan of their work I wanted to share some details of there business on the blog. Next time you need any specialty sweets, cake, or cookies make sure to contact Bluebird Cakes !

      Who is the owner behind Bluebird Cakes and what is your baking experience?
      I am essentially a business of 1! My name is Amanda Van Unen and I am the owner and lead baker at Bluebird Cakes.

      I studied cooking at the Dubrulle French Culinary School in Vancouver. My apprenticeship years were spent with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts working at the Banff Springs Hotel. It was my time in the pastry department of the Springs that really fuelled my love of baking. After receiving my Red Seal certification in 1997 I moved to Edmonton and joined the kitchen at the Fairmont Hotel MacDonald.  When my daughter was born I left the industry to concentrate on family life but really missed the kitchen. It took me until after the birth of my son to realize that my baking talents could be developed into a successful business. Soon after that Bluebird Cakes was born. 

      What type of products does Bluebird Cakes specialize in?
      Bluebird Cakes specializes in one-of-a kind, special occasion cakes but we also make signature cupcakes, hand decorated sugar cookies, and whatever special requests come my way.

      What is your favorite pastry to make? To eat?
      My favourite pastry to make would probably be sugar cookies. I love decorating cookies and have amassed a fairly impressive (and constantly expanding) cookie cutter collection.
       
      As far as eating goes, I am more of a salt/savoury person so just give me the cheese plate and you can have the cake. 

      Do you have suggestions for unique event or wedding pastries?
      I am a big fan of individual desserts. No muss, no fuss and everyone gets a portion. Whether it be cupcakes, individual “shots” of tiramisu, tartlets, cake pops, or whoopie pies I love them all. Bear in mind that you can still have a ceremonial cake for cutting so you won’t miss out on the tradition. 

      What are some tips for ordering event and wedding pastries?
      At Bluebird we book up fast! The best tip I can offer is to confirm your date with your preferred baker and get your deposit in.
      Credit: Capture it! Photography (Photography) A Modern Proposal (Planning)

      Credit: A Modern Proposal

      Credit: Bluebird Cakes (Facebook page)

      Credit: Bluebird Cakes (Facebook page)

      Credit: Bluebird Cakes (Facebook page)