WPIC

To Cover That Tattoo or Not to Cover?

By: Tracey Manailescu

How many of your clients have had a tattoo that they were unsure of showing off on the BIG day?  What suggestions do you give them?

What about your own tattoos? 

Do you cover them up in client meetings, and on the Wedding Day?

First, you all need to ask yourselves a few questions.  Will the couples' guests find it distracting or even off-putting? Is it something you can wear proudly while you are working at the Wedding? How well do the guests know the couple?

In my opinion, I really feel it is up to the couple you are working with. Chances are, if they have hired you for Full Wedding Coordination services, they know your personality and style. Heck, your "Tats" may even be one of the reasons they took an interest in hiring you in the first place. 

For those clients and yourselves, who want to cover it up on the Wedding Day you can offer them a few suggestions... There are a ton of companies that offer cover up makeup for tatoos such as CM Beauty This is a kit that can be ordered.

A professional Makeup Artist should have some great techniques and tips on their own.  Just make sure that they know about what your client wants from the onset, so they have the proper equipment on hand to work with and can show them at their trial appointment.

Here is a step by step guide to cover up a tattoo with makeup from Makeup Notebook for the client who wants to do it themselves.

Tattoos are a very personal decision, and are usually made for a special memory or something near and dear to those who get them. I have considered getting one a few times in my life but I always chicken out. Maybe one day...

Happy planning!

Tips on Hiring a Wedding Band

Photo Source: God Made Me Funky

Written by: CEO of Fusion Events, Arthur Kerekes, WPICC

Arthur Kerekes comes from an entertainment background and started his career playing in wedding bands, specifically Juno nominated Toronto Powerhouse God Made Me Funky.

Face it you’ve probably never hired a band in your life…and chances are you never will again after the wedding. So what makes a good wedding band? It might be very different from what makes your favourite bands like U2 and Arcade Fire good. When hiring a wedding band remember that if you want a truly successful event with a packed dance floor all night you need a band that is versatile! Just because you love the Rolling Stones doesn’t mean that a tribute band is the answer. Of course you will want a band that can play some of your favourite songs and artists but you also want to entertain your guests…..don’t forget about the other 100-150ppl in attendance. They don’t all have the same tastes as you.

The first step to hiring the right band is sourcing out your best options. Wedding planners and your venue can be a good place to start as they have experience working with all kinds of vendors. The next logical choice is to ask around and see who your friends have been using. Keep in mind though that you maybe don’t want the same band as all of your friends. Will there be a lot of the same guests at your wedding? The next place to look is the internet. In 2011 90% of brides will book all of their wedding vendors using the web. If a band does not have audio and video samples on their website, or even worse, don’t have a website that raises serious red flags. Any good professional wedding band should have a website with audio and video. If they don’t even have a myspace page which is free and easy to set up they are not worth wasting your time and money on. I would suggest searching google and youtube and watching videos of bands on their websites and compiling your top 5 choices.

The next step is contacting the bands. First send an email inquiry and see what their initial responses are. Do they respond right away, the next day, 3 days later? This may give you some indication as to their level of professionalism. Do they call you on the phone? If they email you what information did they provide? How the potential bands respond might give you some idea as to who is right for you. But before you make your decision make sure you do 2 things. First speak to the agent, manager, or band leader (depending on who handles their bookings) in person on the phone and make sure the band is available for your date. If they are have them hold the date and give you the right of first refusal. Do they sound like they know what they are talking about? Are they familiar with bands repertoire, band members, set up etc? Second, find out when they are playing and ask to see the band live before you book. If the band has no upcoming gigs for the next 3months are you sure you want to hire them? Most professional bands work 12months a year however keep in mind that January through to March can be slower than the rest of the year.

Here are some helpful questions to ask your potential wedding band whether it be a duo or full orchestra:

1. Is our date and time available?
2. How many events did you do last year?
3. Will you book any other events on the same date as our wedding?
4. Have you worked at our venue before?
5. Can we see a video of you playing at a wedding?
6. Can you provide references?
7. Can we see you perform live at an upcoming wedding?
8. Will you be our musician on the day of?
9. What is the instrumentation of the group?
10. Do you have any additional people with you that are not in the band?
11. What do you normally wear to a wedding?
12. Will you wear attire specified by us?
13. What is your fee structure?
14. Do you have any package options and if so what are they?
15. How many hours does your price include?
16. When does the time start (when you arrive, set up, or start)?
17. Do you charge for Travel.
18. Can we extend the hours on the day of?
19. What are your overtime fees?
20. How many breaks do you require?
21. Do you provide recorded music during breaks?
22. What type of music do you specialize in?
23. Can you provide your complete songlist?
24. Do you take special requests that are not on your songlist?
24. Do you bring everything you need to perform and is it included in the price?
25. Do you provide lighting?
26. Will you act as emcee?
27. How do you motivate the crowd?
28. How many years have you been in business?
29. What insurance and permits do you have?
30. Do you have references we can contact?
31. Do you use a contract?
32.What is your cancellation Policy?

There isn’t one right answer for any particular question but at least now you have some idea as to the kind of questions you should be asking. Ask the right questions. Be informed. Most importantly feel confident in the person you are dealing with (as they may not be in the band themselves) and feel totally confident in the band as a unit. You will have seen them in action and loved them before handing over a deposit. This could be one of the single most important decisions you make about your wedding reception. If everything is perfect from decor to food but the entertainment is bad everything else that was good will be instantly forgotten. So do your homework and good luck!!!

The Groom Show

Our very own, Ophellia McKnight, WPICC, DWC, of Bridal Affaire, is the Producer and mastermind behind this unique Wedding Show.

What makes it so unique, you say? 

How about the fact that it is geared to men for a start!

Throw into the mix 2 fabulous WPIC Alumni are leading seminars:

 “Getting the Biggest Bang for Your Wedding Buck” Jennifer Maxwell – Wise Bride

“How to be the Groom Your Bride Wants You to Be” Bill McElree – Absolute Entertainment

Man to Man seminars and Honeymoon Giveaway to Negril, Jamaica add the spice to round out this action-packed show!

Your Wedding Night with "The Booty Parlor"

By: Tracey Manailescu

I was watching a show on television a couple of weeks ago, and this ultra cool store, The Booty Parlor, came up as a hotspot for celebrities to bring their A-Game to the bedroom.  So of course, I wanted to share with you!

        

The Booty Parlor was founded in 2004 by married couple Charlie and Dana B. Myers. Their premise behind the company is that 'confidence is the sexiest thing a woman can have'. The store has been featured on just about every magazine and tv show out there (for the right market).

Products range from sweet and flirty, to down-right naughty!

The Booty Parlor Blog is full of great tips and expert advise to spice up your life! Tips such as how to be a better flirt, how to turn your bedroom into a sexy boudoir, etc.

How great is this for those of you who want to ensure your wedding night will never be forgotten!

Myers has added to the allure of The Booty Parlor by writing a book, The Booty Parlor Mojo Makeover: Four Weeks to a Sexier You released on January 25th, 2011.

Signing off, because I am going shopping!

 

*All photos are from The Booty Parlor website

*Also posted on The Wedding Planners Blog

Jello Shots With Style

By: Tracey Manailescu

Who says an Engagement Party needs to be stuffy, and boring? Not us!

Let's talk Jello Shots :)

Photo: Jenn Cooks Adventures From the Kitchen

Pumpkin Pie Jell-O Shots from The Tasting Table National

Apple Pie Jello Shots

Blackberry Cosmopolitan Jello Shots

Espresso Martini Jelly Shot Ice cube tray from Kerekes

Pear Cosmopolitan and the Diamond Ice Cube Tray I also found it on Amazon

Blueberry Martini Jello Shot
Mimosa Jello Shots

Come on, you know you want one :)

A Guide to Colored Engagement Rings

by Danielle Andrews Sunkel

With the engagement of His Royal Highness Prince William to Kate Middleton, using his mother's sapphire engagement ring, jewellers are preparing for a new surge in the popularity of coloured gems as engagement rings.

Official royal engagement photo Photo: Mario Testino/Clarence House/Getty

The resurgance of coloured gemstone engagement rings didn't start with Prince William, but it is sure to help.  In 2009 Carrie Underwood was proposed to with a yellow diamond and Nick Cannon proposed to Mariah Carey in 2008 with a $2.5 million pink diamond ring.  My own cousin proposed this year with a Jade ring.

 

photo from stylehive.com

Choosing a Stone

Diamonds naturally come in a rainbow of colors; yellow, orange, brown, green, aquamarine, black and even red.  The rarity of their colour also comes with a matching pricetag, making them the most expensive gems.  So why not look at a coloured gemstone instead?

Gemstones are usually millions of years old, and are believed to bring much beauty and power to the wearer, so choose wisely and then pick one that feels right.

You don't just have to choose the bride's favourite gemstone.  Since gems all have meanings, why not choose a stone that is symbolic to the two of you?  You could choose the birthstone of the month of your first meeting, first date, or first kiss.  A dual birthstone engagement ring respresents both the bride and the groom.  If you like a particular stone, it doesn't matter if the stone represents a certain month or not.  

January- garnet
Febraury- amethyst
March- aquamarine
April- diamond
May- emerald
June- pearl
July- ruby
August- peridot
September- sapphire 
October- opal/tourmaline 
November- topaz/citrine
December- turquoise/blue topaz/zircon

*A little $$ tip: the best deals for coloured gemstone engagement rings are found at the end of the month of that birthstone.

photo from diamondvues.com

The meaning of various Gemstones

If you are considering a coloured gemstone, consider the meaning behind the stone when creating the ring.  She will be wearing this ring for the rest of her life, why not make it special and full of meaning.

Of the precious stones: the classic Diamond symbolizes innocence and constancy; a Sapphire represents fidelity; an Emerald faith and hope; and a Ruby stimulates deep understanding and attainment of the heart's wishes. 

Jade- the highest level of preciousness

Garnet- facilitates loyalty and commitment

Pearl- innocence, purity, clear vision and wisdom

Amethyst- spiritual contentment

Citrine- pure, brings happiness and laughter

Whatever ring you choose, with whatever gemstone, remember that the engagement ring symbolizes your love and a promise for the future, so your intentions are what makes it perfect. 

The Groom's "To-Do list"

by Guest Blogger, Christina Plunkett, WPICC of Something White Wedding Coordination

During the planning process, the groom’s role is frequently overlooked. After all, isn’t a wedding made up of all the frilly, girly things the bride has dreamed up since she was a child? Not exactly. Though this is true in some cases, the groom often wants more say than is expected. A wedding is a day for both the bride and the groom, so both parties should have some input. Am I saying the groom should be left to his own devices when it comes to choosing the flowers? Absolutely not. But, there are many things the groom can do to contribute to the wedding and minimize the bride’s stress in the meantime. 

Attire The groom does not see the bridal gown (usually!) until she is walking towards him down the aisle, so why can’t the groom’s tux be a surprise for you as well? Trust your groom to choose his own tux, and even the groomsmen’s tuxes, and he will feel like he has contributed to an important part of your wedding. Of course, if he’s the kind of groom who needs some guidance, make suggestions about colour. 

Food The most important features of a wedding, in most cases, is the food. This should be a joint decision. Both you and the groom should work out the perfect menu for your event. The groom may even have some excellent suggestions about food that you may not have thought of. You know what they say: the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. So, let him be a part of it. 

Transportation This is one aspect of the wedding that the groom may feel passionate about, and it is hard to mess up. Set out a budget and requirements for transportation together and let him seek out the perfect vehicle to escort you on your day. 

Disc Jockey The DJ can make or break the party. Often, the groom cares most about how much fun the party will be; the DJ is one thing he could get excited about. He is capable of seeking out the right DJ for your reception so let him have the responsibility (with your final approval of course!). If you want to be involved you can go to the meeting as a couple, but give him some room to take the lead with negotiation. 

Keep the bride happy Planning a wedding is a very stressful time and the majority of the stress lands on the bride. Remind your groom that he needs to be kind and gentle with you during the process. Happy wife, happy life! Of course, it would be even easier if this were mutual (wink). 

Choosing the certified wedding planner The planning process will be even less stressful with the help of a certified wedding planner. It is important to choose one that you are comfortable with and whom you feel understands the vision for your day. Both you and the groom should be involved with choosing the planner. She / He should be in the same page as both the bride and the groom.

Mancakes – Making Wedding Cupcakes A Bit More Macho

Image Courtesy: For The Love of Cake

by Guest Blogger, Crystal Adair-Benning, WPICC from Distinct Occasions

Everyone loves a cupcake – super sweet, uber cute and adorably feminine these sugary treats have been very popular for weddings the world over. If you’re in Toronto, Genevieve Griffin at For The Love Of Cake has MANified the cupcake with ManCakes! Cupcakes in all their same uber cuteness but in man-inspired flavours using stouts, bacon and even brandy! Currently there are 4 flavours to enjoy:

Image Courtesy: For The Love of Cake

Stout Spice

A moist spice cake flavoured with orange zest and Guinness topped with a stout glaze and a candied orange peel.

Maple Bacon

A maple and bacon flavoured cupcake filled with blueberries and topped with a maple frosting and bacon bits.

Guinness Chocolate

A chocolate cupcake flavoured with Guinness beer, filled with an Irish whiskey chocolate ganache and topped with cream cheese frosting and chocolate shavings.

Black Forest

A moist chocolate cupcake filled with a splash of Kirsch brandy and sour cherries and topped with more cherries and a dollop of vanilla butter cream.

For more information or to order: http://fortheloveofcake.ca

Happy Planning & Beautiful Design,

Crystal Adair-Benning

Things to Avoid During a Wedding Toast

by Guest Blogger, Christine Plunkett, WPICC of Something White Wedding Coordination

If you are honoured enough to deliver a wedding toast, here are some rules to follow: 

• Do not mention that the bride is “finally married” or that “you never thought she would get married” or any variation  If you are going to make jokes during a wedding toast, they should actually be funny and should not anger or insult the bride or groom. 
• Do not bring up past relationships  It is not only a very inappropriate time to discuss a previous relationship of the bride or groom, it could be a sensitive subject in the relationship and any mention of this could result in tension during the most important day of their lives. 
• Do not reveal that you dislike the bride or groom or that they are “making a mistake” The deal is done, the papers are signed. Do not take this opportunity to knock some sense into the bride or groom; keep those feelings to yourself. 
• Do not discuss raunchy stories  This is very tasteless and though you may get a laugh, discussing raunchy stories involving the bride or groom, or both, will make the couple very uncomfortable in front of all of their family and friends. If you really want to bring up these stories, a more appropriate time would be at the bachelor or bachelorette parties. 
• Do not use profanities  This doesn’t need much explanation. It is bad. Just don’t do it. 
• Do not go on for an eternity  No one wants to hear one toast go on and on for twenty minutes. Keep is short and sweet and the message will come through a lot clearer. 
• Do not forget to mention the bride and groom  The reason you are standing up in front of this crowd to speak is to congratulate the bride and groom. Do not make it about yourself or a completely unrelated subject. *Inspired by Crystal from Distinct Occasions 
• Do not wing it  A toast should not be improvised. This is a very bad idea. You may say things without thinking that do not follow the rules above or you may find nothing to say at all. A toast should be rehearsed and well thought out. A toast is much like a speech; it should have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion (Reference: Connor R. Sullivan), which requires some planning. 
• Do not get too sappy  The bride has done her share of crying during the ceremony. The reception should be fun and lighthearted. Do not release the floodgates during your toast. 
• Do not consume too much alcohol  Most of the rules above can be avoided by following this one rule. Have a glass or two tops, or avoid it until after your toast. A sloppy toast does not make anyone happy.

Body Shapers for the Groom

By Tracey Manailescu

No more excuses Grooms-to-be!

Brides have struggled for years to look their absolute best on their wedding day; Bridal Boot Camps, fad diets and body slimmers are wedding staples for the brides-to-be. 

Well now the Groom can look and feel extra dashing too, and get Spanx for men! 

Just please encourage the guests to keep their eyes on the bride :)

 

Spanx for men guarantees to:

• Firm Chest
• Flatten stomach
• Improve posture
• Support lower back
• No bulk under clothes

Here is a great video from their launch:

All photos used with permission from Spanx.