Blog - Dave Shannon DJ

Your Ultimate Post-Wedding Checklist!

The wedding bells have rung, the confetti has settled, and you’ve embarked on a grand adventure as a married couple. As you step foot into this uncharted post-wedding territory, it’s time to explore the unspoken tasks that await beyond your “I do’s.” We’ve compiled a post-wedding checklist that will help you smoothly transition from the whirlwind of wedding planning to the reality of married life. While it may not be as exciting or as romantic as picking out your bridal gown or choosing a song for your first dance, each item on our list is just as important to ensure a successful and fulfilling journey ahead.

Name change

Step one on the post-wedding checklist is the name change. For those who choose to take on this age-old tradition, changing your name is a significant part of the post-wedding process, symbolizing the beginning of your shared identity as a married couple. Whether you decide to take your partner’s last name, hyphenate both surnames or even combine them to create a new name, updating legal documents like your driver’s license, passport and health card should be done soon after the wedding. And don’t forget to inform institutions like banks and insurance providers, too.

Write thank you notes

The guests at your wedding took time from their busy lives to attend your wedding. Many may have travelled from far away, while almost all have certainly given you generous gifts. The least you can do is thank them, properly, with a handwritten note of thanks. Get some custom stationery printed from an online store or a nearby printer with matching envelopes, and start the process of writing thank you notes with your spouse to mail to your guests. Though printing a generic note on all the cards may be faster and easier, handwriting them and addressing each guest personally will be much more appreciated.

Review and adjust your finances

You’ll want to start married life on the right foot, with common financial goals that will set you and your partner up for life. Assess your financial situation as a couple and review any debts or loans you may have, and plan a strategy for managing them together. You may also want to consider merging or reorganizing your bank accounts. It’s also a good idea to speak with a financial advisor to discuss budgeting and savings goals.

Evaluate healthcare and insurance

Another important item that should be on your post-wedding checklist is evaluating your insurance policies. Consider adding your spouse to your employer-sponsored health insurance plan or exploring individual policies. Update other types of insurance, such as car or home insurance, to include your spouse.

Update your beneficiaries and wills

Review and update beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other vital documents. Consider creating or updating your wills and powers of attorney, taking into account any changes in assets or beneficiaries.

Preserve your wedding dress

One big decision that should be on your post-wedding checklist is to figure out what to do with the wedding dress. Some brides preserve it as a cherished keepsake, while others sell, donate, or repurpose it. If you wish to preserve your wedding dress, consider getting it professionally cleaned and store it properly to maintain its pristine condition for years. Selling or donating your dress can bring joy to another bride while at the same time recoup some of the cost. And for those feeling creative, repurposing the dress into a special memento or transforming it into a new garment allows you to cherish its sentimental value in a unique way.

Write reviews

As part of your post-wedding checklist, remember to take the time to write reviews of your wedding vendors. Sharing your experience and feedback is a valuable way to express your gratitude and helps future couples make informed decisions when choosing their vendors. Whether it’s the talented photographer who captured your special moments or the caterer who delighted your guests with a delectable feast, a thoughtful review on forums like Yelp or Facebook, or on the vendor’s personal website, can go a long way in supporting these professionals and recognizing their hard work. Take a few moments to share your honest thoughts and experiences, highlighting what made each vendor exceptional. Your words can significantly impact their reputation and serve as a helpful guide for couples embarking on their wedding planning journey.

Take down your wedding website

Your post-wedding checklist should also include taking down your wedding website, if you had one. While it served as a hub of information during your wedding planning journey, it’s time to bid farewell to this online presence gracefully. Remove any outdated information, RSVP forms, and event details. Consider writing a final message expressing gratitude to all who supported and celebrated your union. Taking down your wedding website signifies the end of a chapter and allows you to shift focus toward the future as a married couple.

Finalize your wedding registry

With the wedding festivities behind you, it’s time to wrap up your wedding registry and address any unwanted gifts. Take the opportunity to review your registry and ensure that all desired items have been purchased or fulfilled. If you received duplicates or items that you don’t need, promptly handle the returns or exchanges. Express your gratitude to those who gifted you, regardless of whether you decide to keep or return their presents. By finalizing your wedding registry and managing any returns, you’ll close the gifting chapter and set the stage for the next phase of your married life...and here's to your AMAZING future together! ~ Dave ~

09Sep

Here's How To Lessen Your Wedding Day Stress!

As the morning sun rises on your wedding day, the last thing you want is to be overwhelmed by stress and anxiety. You should feel the flutter of excitement and giddiness as you prepare to marry the love of your life. But for many, the wedding morning stress can tie them up in knots. Let’s face it, stress is real, and it’s the last thing you want to feel on your wedding day. So, we’ve rounded up some tips on how to avoid anxiety and stress on your big day to help you breeze through the precious hours leading up to your “I dos.” Say goodbye to pre-wedding jitters and hello to a morning filled with tranquility, laughter, and anticipation.

1. Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for starting your wedding morning on the right foot. Prioritize sleep the night before to wake up refreshed and energized. Create a calming bedtime routine by dimming the lights, avoiding screens before bed, and indulging in soothing herbal tea.

2. Incorporate fresh flowers

Fresh flowers, especially calming ones like lavender, can set a peaceful tone for the morning. Consider having a small bouquet or a vase of lavender on your bedside table or in the room where you’re getting ready. The gentle aroma can help reduce nervousness and promote relaxation on your wedding morning.

3. Enjoy a nourishing breakfast

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast that includes your favourite foods. Choose foods that provide sustained energy and won’t leave you feeling hungry before the ceremony. Incorporate protein, whole grains, and fruits to keep your energy levels steady throughout the morning.

4. Opt to get ready solo

While getting ready with your bridesmaids can be super fun, minimizing potential stressors is still essential. Getting ready solo can allow you to focus on yourself and avoid unnecessary drama. Consider having a special moment or first look with your bridesmaids after you’re all dressed and ready.

5. Practice your vows

If you’ve written your own vows, practice them in the morning. Familiarize yourself with the words you’ll be saying, which can help alleviate nervousness and ensure you feel confident when the time comes.

6. Delegate responsibility

Delegate tasks to trusted individuals to handle any last-minute details. Choose a member of your bridal party or a close friend/family member who knows your preferences and can be your go-to person for questions or issues that may arise. This will allow you to focus on getting ready and enjoying the moment.

7. Embrace your own traditions

While some wedding traditions can be charming, don’t hesitate to embrace your own way of doing things. If certain traditions add stress or don’t resonate with you, feel free to discard them. Make choices that align with your personalities and preferences as a couple.

8. Have a backup plan

It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case of unexpected changes. Weather, vendor delays, or other unforeseen circumstances can occur. By having contingency plans in place, you’ll feel more at ease knowing that you’re prepared for any curveballs that may come your way.

9. Set the mood with music

They say music feeds the soul so take some time to listen to your favourite tunes on your wedding morning. Songs that make you dance in front of the mirror, sing into your hairbrush, or instantly put you at ease are what you need to start your day off right. So, before the big day arrives, create a playlist of your favourite songs that uplift and soothe your spirits. Music can enhance your mood, and listening to songs you love can make the morning feel even more special.

10. Don’t sweat the small stuff

Remember that perfection isn’t the goal; celebrating your love is. Minor hiccups may happen, but they won’t define your day. On your wedding morning, focus on the bigger picture and the happiness of marrying your partner. The little details won’t matter in the grand scheme of things.

11. Embrace the culmination of planning

You’ve spent months planning and organizing, and now it’s time to let go and enjoy the day you’ve envisioned. Confirm all the details with your vendors and bridal party a few days before the wedding so you don’t need to worry about logistics on the actual wedding morning. Relish in the fact that everything is in place, and you can simply bask in the joy in one of the most important celebrations in your life ... and here's to your AMAZING wedding day! ~ Dave ~

07Sep

10 Helpful Tips In Writing Memorable Wedding Vows!

Your wedding should be all about you and your partner, a celebration of your love story and the happily ever after that awaits you. But of the many personal touches that will be included in your big day, none will be more meaningful as your wedding vows. Crafting heartfelt wedding vows is an art form, a delicate balance between expressing deep emotions and avoiding overly sappy clichés. Here are some tips that will help you pull off the perfect amount of sentiment when saying your ‘I do’s!

Reflect on your journey. Looking back on your journey as a couple is like flipping through the pages of your love story. From the first spark that ignited your connection to the adventures, hurdles, and personal growth you’ve embraced together, these memories will serve as the heartbeats of your vows. Share brief details on how you met and any milestone moments that helped define your relationship.

Set the tone. One of the first things you should do when writing your wedding vows is decide on the tone. You’ll want your vows to reflect your personality, so decide if you want it to be funny, light-hearted, romantic, or a little more serious. Take into account your audience – are your guests mostly close family and friends who know you and each other well? Are you inviting a lot of work and professional colleagues, or out-of-town guests who you rarely see? Knowing who will be attending will help determine how personal – and funny – you can be with your vows.

Keep it personal. Your vows should be a reflection of you and your relationship. Share anecdotes, inside jokes, and personal experiences that are special to both of you. This is your chance to let your personalities shine.

Be honest and sincere. Authenticity is key. Speak from the heart and be sincere in your promises. Don’t overcomplicate things with fancy words; keeping it simple often makes for the biggest impact. And if you get choked up while speaking your wedding vows, that’s perfectly okay. Your guests will appreciate the sincerity of your feelings.

Keep it concise. While pouring your heart out is tempting, remember to keep your vows concise. Aim for around 2-3 minutes per person. Short and sweet can be incredibly powerful.

Make promises. Vows are promises, so don’t forget to include them. Think about what you’re committing to and express it clearly. Whether it’s “I promise to always make you laugh” or “I promise to support your dreams,” these commitments matter.

Practice, but don’t memorize. Practice your vows aloud to get comfortable with the words, but don’t feel pressured to memorize them. A small cue card with your vows is a great backup plan in case you stumble or forget your words.

Get feedback. Share your vows with a trusted friend or family member ahead of time to get their feedback. They can offer suggestions and ensure your vows are balanced and heartfelt.

Embrace the moment. When it’s time to recite your vows, remember to embrace the moment fully. It’s easy to become overwhelmed with the business of the day and certain parts will feel like a blur. But the moment you become united as one is definitely worth remembering so take a deep breath, look into your partner’s eyes, and relish in the moment.

Don’t aim for perfection. Nothing’s perfect, not in love and relationships, and the same can be said for your vows. Don’t feel pressured to write or recite your vows perfectly, it will only cause you stress in the long run. Instead, speak from the heart and be authentic. And if you fumble a word or two, it makes no difference as the end goal of being married remains the same...and here's to your AMAZING wedding day! ~ Dave ~

06Sep

Inspiring Ideas For YOUR Fall Wedding!

With fall just around the corner, love is in the air in more ways than one. It’s the season of cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice everything, and enchanting weddings! If you’re engaged or simply a wedding enthusiast with an affinity for the rustic charm of autumn, you’re in for a treat. We’ve whipped up a list of fun and unique ideas for fall weddings that will delight your guests.

Photographer: 135 mm Photography

Fall wedding venue ideas

Selecting the right venue for your fall wedding sets the stage for an unforgettable event. Think barns, wineries, homesteads, cottages, and gardens for a cozy and rustic vibe. Mountain lodges nestled among the changing leaves, historic estates with timeless charm, and waterfront locations reflecting the autumn hues are also great ideas for fall weddings. But if something more grand fits your vision, you can also consider a chateau, a resort or ballroom, all of which can be decorated to suit the season.

Fall wedding flowers

Your wedding flowers can instantly transform a venue from ‘ho-hum’ to ‘oh, wow!’ With autumn’s deep colour palette, you have at your disposal a whole spectrum of hues to play with, from deep burgundies and warm yellows, to rich browns and metallic gold. Consider creating arrangements that highlight the season’s natural beauty with unique textures – you can add rustic twigs, berries, and dried leaves to give that authentic touch. Sunflowers, dahlias, autumnal roses and chrysanthemums are beautiful options that perfectly capture the lively spirit of fall. For elegant flower ideas for fall weddings, create arrangements in jewel tones like deep purples, burgundy and velvety red. Use premium blooms such as orchids, calla lilies, roses, and lush greenery to achieve a refined yet luxurious ambiance that truly stands out.

Fall food stations

From hearty Canadian classics to inventive delights, these food station ideas for fall weddings promise to elevate your wedding reception with seasonal tastes as inviting as the crisp autumn air:

Photographer: 135 mm Photography

Soup bar: Warm up your guests with a cozy soup bar featuring options like butternut squash soup, hearty chili, and creamy potato leek soup. Don’t forget tasty toppings like croutons, crumbled bacon bits, crispy shallots, parmesan crisps, spiced pumpkin seeds, grated cheese and fresh herbs.
Mashed potato bar: Create a comfort food haven with a mashed potato bar where guests can customize their spuds with toppings like bacon bits, cheddar cheese, chives, and gravy.
Maple syrup pancake station: Pay homage to Canadian flavours with a pancake station featuring fluffy pancakes served with pure maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh berries, and crunchy nuts.
Cider and donut station: Treat your guests to a quintessential fall pairing with a station offering warm apple cider and a variety of freshly baked donuts. Have a selection of donut flavours like cinnamon sugar and maple glaze, and beautiful garnishes like cinnamon sticks and sugared orange peels for each cup of cider.
S’mores bar: Embrace the cozy vibes with a DIY s’mores station, complete with marshmallows, graham crackers, chocolate squares and fun fillings like M&Ms and caramel chips to create the perfect fireside treat.
Poutine station: Nothing says ‘Canadiana’ more than a classic poutine. Celebrate your Canadian roots with a self-serve poutine station featuring crispy fries topped with rich gravy and gooey cheese curds. You can also offer a variety of toppings like caramelized onions and crumbled bacon.
Cheese and charcuterie station: Curate an assortment of cheeses and locally sourced charcuterie, accompanied by artisanal bread, crackers, and a selection of chutneys and preserves.
Hot chocolate bar: Create a hot chocolate bar with toppings like mini marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and flavoured syrups, perfect for warming up during the crisp fall evening.
Candy apple dipping station: Allow guests to channel their inner child by dipping apples into melted caramel or chocolate, then rolling them in toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or coconut flakes.What a fun and interactive idea!
Fire up the fondue: Delight in dipping an array of delectable treats into rich, velvety melted cheese or luscious chocolate, creating a memorable and interactive addition to your autumn wedding celebration. For a cheese fondue, serve a variety of cubed or torn breads like sourdough, bagels and croutons. For a chocolate fondue, lay out a selection of sliced fruits, graham crackers, cookies, marshmallows and salted pretzels.

Elevating your fall wedding decor beyond the ordinary opens up a world of creativity and charm. Consider hanging vintage-inspired frames adorned with pressed leaves as a distinctive and nature-inspired backdrop. For a playful twist, swap out traditional seating cards for mini, personalized pumpkins that guests can pluck from a pumpkin patch-inspired display. Cast a warm, inviting glow over your wedding festivities with an array of unique lighting ideas for fall weddings. Enchant with the delicate twinkle of fairy lights, add a touch of elegance with suspended chandeliers and evoke a cozy atmosphere with mismatched lanterns. And let the season’s natural beauty shine with softly lit pathways bordered by illuminated pumpkins. And don’t overlook the magic of scent – incorporate cinnamon-scented candles or apple-infused potpourri to transport your guests to the heart of the fall season...and here's to YOUR amazing wedding day! ~ Dave ~

06Sep

How To Create YOUR Wedding Timeline!

Planning a wedding is a magical time, but let’s be honest, it can also be pretty overwhelming. Don’t worry; we’re here to make the process a bit easier and much more fun!Unless you’ve planned a wedding before, you are wading into new waters…into the deep, blue sea of endless decisions, checklists and to-do lists. So many moving parts are involved in pulling off such an unforgettable event, and it can be easy to get derailed and lose sight of what should be done at each stage of the planning process. One of the best things you can do to ensure your wedding day goes off without a hitch is to create a wedding timeline, which is simply a roadmap for planning your big day. A timeline is crucial for ensuring everything runs smoothly, that you stay on track, and that details don’t get overlooked. It will also help keep your stress levels to a minimum – we all know how wedding planning can often spiral out of control!So here are a few tips on how to use a wedding timeline to make planning your dream day a breeze.

1. Start Early

The earlier you start planning your wedding, the better. Begin by setting your wedding date and then work backwards to determine when you need to book vendors, send out invitations, and make other important decisions. Give yourself plenty of time to research and make informed choices.

2. Prioritize Your Tasks

Make a list of all the tasks you must complete and prioritize them based on importance and when they need to be completed. This will help you focus on the most pressing tasks first and avoid feeling overwhelmed by everything that needs to get accomplished.

3. Consider Hiring a Wedding Planner

Many people think hiring a wedding planner is unnecessary, but trust us, they are worth their weight in gold. When planning a wedding, there are hundreds, maybe even thousands of decisions to make, which can quickly become overwhelming. Having a wedding planner takes some of the pressure off because they can tackle many items on your to-do list.They can also help you create a wedding timeline, stay on track and budget, recommend vendors, explain contracts, assist with decor advice and execution, and manage the many details of your big day. Having a wedding planner in your corner can be a lifesaver and save you a lot of tears and frustration.

4. Communicate with Your Vendors

Make sure you communicate with your vendors regularly to ensure everyone is on the same page. This is a great item to include on your wedding timeline as a reminder to confirm deadlines, review contracts, and make sure everyone knows their responsibilities.

5. Build in Some Flexibility

Wedding planning can be unpredictable, so be sure to build some flexibility into your timeline. Give yourself some extra time in case things don’t go as planned or unexpected events arise.

6. Don’t Forget About Rehearsals and Post-Wedding Tasks

In addition to planning your big day, remember to include time in your wedding timeline for rehearsals and post-wedding tasks such as thank-you notes and returning rental items.

7. Involve Your Partner

Wedding planning is a joint effort so be sure to involve your partner in the planning process. Work together to create a wedding timeline that works for both of you and divide tasks based on your strengths and interests.

8. Delegate Tasks to Your Wedding Party

Your wedding party is there to support you in your journey to the altar and should be able to help you navigate the planning process. So, feel free to delegate tasks to your wedding party, especially if you have a large group of bridesmaids or groomsmen. Assign specific responsibilities such as managing the guest book or helping with the seating chart to help ease the burden of planning.

9. Stay Organized with a Wedding Planning App

Plenty of wedding planning apps are available to help you stay organized and on track. Look for apps that allow you to create a wedding timeline, manage your guest list, track your budget and more. These apps are super handy and can be like having a virtual wedding planner on your phone.

10. Take Time to Relax

Wedding planning can be stressful, so be sure to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Plan date nights or take a weekend getaway to recharge and reconnect. .. and here's to YOUR amazing wedding day! ~ Dave ~

30Aug

To Hire Or Not Hire A DJ?

Here is a list of some of the pros and cons and thoughts of hiring a DJ versus playing a Spotify playlist for one of the most important days of your life.

Hire A Wedding DJ?

Pros

•Splurging on an experienced DJ is better than having an unprepared DJ.

•Knowing what song to play for the biggest positive outcome. This only comes from experience.

•As an example, an experienced DJ knows from the time guests arrive through the meal is a gold mine of information as to the style of music guests prefer. The music played helps DJs determine what songs are guests bobbing their heads to, tapping their toes to, and lip-syncing to.

•A party’s biggest failure during the reception’s party time is emptying the dance floor. DJs think 3 songs ahead to keep the dance floor bopping at all times.

•An experienced DJ knows what it will take to make an amazing party and not just a family get-together. Knowing what songs to play to keep the energy up is a coveted talent.

•Having announcements made with style and class. Plus, knowledge of when not to be on the mic - like announcing tables for buffet eating.

•You can almost always find a DJ for any budget.

Cons

•An increased cost to the budget.

•Having trust in the DJ to create your desired type of celebration.

•Whether family and friends have a good time at your wedding is primarily in the hands of the DJ. Hiring an incompetent DJ could be catastrophic to the success of the event.

Play a Spotify Playlist?

Pros

•Couples on a limited budget may not be able to hire a professional DJ. A Spotify playlist satisfies this scenario.

•You play exactly the songs you want in the desired order.

•Internet is not needed as long as you activate offline mode on Spotify.

•You don’t have to worry about hiring a DJ that is 1. unprofessional, 2. doesn’t show up, or 3. doesn’t care about the success of the event.

Cons

•Guests typically remember if they had a good time or not at your wedding. Having a DJ will exponentially increase the odds of everyone enjoying themselves by playing the right tracks at the right time.

•Someone will need to prepare the playlist.

•Will the playlist creator know what song will get guests excited and in a party mood?

•The playlist is set in stone. There are no switching song selections if guests are reacting positively or negatively to a specific era or genre.

•A person is needed to queue the playlist for specific moments of the wedding day (like formal dances).

•You will need a sound system to play the music from your Spotify playlist.

•This could include the use of an in-house system already available at the venue, Bluetooth speakers, and a PA System and speaker rental. I recommend you rent a professional PA System over Bluetooth speakers to prevent spotty connections.

•I am going to put this as a con to a Spotify playlist. It is the DJ’s job to work closely with the couple to create a memorable celebration for everyone. However, the success of the wedding should be only judged through the eyes of the couple. DJs have the experience and dedication to make that happen.

Details of an Experienced DJ

•If you hire a DJ for a four-hour reception, contemplate what goes into the four-hour event for the DJ.

•Communication time with the wedding couple with phone calls. texts, emails, meetings, etc. (2-4 hours)

•Building a music library. DJs cannot legally play music directly from YouTube. DJs must legally purchase their music for public performances (Big Bucks). Why not just play songs from YouTube? Besides the legal ramifications, there is a quality of sound issue. Basically, the songs sometimes don’t sound good through a sound system.

•DJ equipment including laptops, DJ software, speakers, headphones, microphones, furniture, lighting, and more. (minimum investment of tens of thousands)

•Preparation time includes assembling a pre-planned playlist, arriving 1-2 hours prior to the event, and not leaving until at least 1 hour after the event ends. Travel time to the event with loading and unloading time. Preorganizing the day’s events. (minimum of five hours to ten hours - also count in years of experience to know what songs work well together for specific crowds at designated moments)

•Splurging on an experienced DJ is better than having an unprepared DJ.

Details of a Spotify Wedding Playlist

•A premium individual Spotify account is $10.99 per month.

•This is required to not have commercials played during your wedding.

•Time is needed to review the optimal settings such as blending songs (known as crossfading).

•Click your profile picture at the top, and select Settings.

•Scroll down to Playback.

•Switch Crossfade songs on.

•Move the slider to select the crossfade length. (start at 3 seconds)

•Time is needed to create music folders for your wedding day.

•Time is needed to select all of the music to play during your wedding day.

Tips for Playing a Spotify Playlist

•Create music folders for your wedding day.

•Folder for ceremony

•Folder for background music

•Folder for formal moments such as dances

•Folder for party dance songs

•Consider the preferred eras and genres of music of all of your guests. Be considerate of their enjoyment at your wedding. Even if you love metal rock music, there is a way to tastefully incorporate it into your wedding day (there are many cover songs).

•Try to be more open-minded about the dancing time of your reception. Play party favorites during the party time for everyone to sing their heart out and dance to their favorite hits.

•As a rule of thumb, the worst song you can play is the one that no one knows (unless the song has special meaning to the wedding couple - then it is a must-play).

•Get song ideas and a wedding music checklist on MyWeddingSongs.com

Warning: Don’t wait until the last week before the wedding to create your playlist. Give yourself a month to plan out a playlist everyone will enjoy.

Duplicate your playlist with someone you trust with access to it offline as a backup.

A Spotify playlist can be ideal when:

• You having a "cake-only" reception.

• You’re inviting less than 30 guests.

• You’re not planning on dancing.

There is no right or wrong answer. Only you, as the wedding couple, can decide what you think is best for your wedding...and here's to YOUR amazing wedding day! ~ Dave ~

23Aug

Pre & Post Wedding Party Tips!

Today’s weddings have become more than just the exchange of vows and a big party afterward. They’ve become immersive experiences that encompass not only the big day itself but also an exciting array of pre and post-wedding parties that stretch far beyond the “I do’s.”

If you want to turn your wedding into a multi-event experience that brings family and friends together, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re unravelling a list of pre and post-wedding parties that will elevate your big day to higher levels. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of a bridesmaids’ luncheon or the exuberance of a bachelorette bash, prepare to be inspired.

Engagement party

One thing to remember when planning your pre and post-wedding parties is to be mindful of your guest list because anyone who gets an invite should also be invited to the wedding.

That being said, one of the earliest pre-wedding parties to put on your calendar is the engagement party. Typically occurring a few months after the proposal, an engagement party is a great way to celebrate the moment your fiance popped the question. And the best thing about this type of celebration is that it can be hosted by anyone and be as grand or informal as you want.

Restaurants, lounges, party rooms and banquet halls are all ideal venues for larger engagement parties. For more intimate gatherings, nothing could be sweeter than a backyard affair, either at your own home or that of a family member or friend. And with brunch, lunch and dinner parties all on the table, the options are truly endless.

nighttime engagement party table with balloons for a festive event

Wedding shower (or couples shower)

The bridal shower is typically a daytime gathering arranged by the bridal party or family that takes place a few months before the wedding to shower the bride with gifts. This celebration is frequently a luncheon, tea party, or light hors d’oeuvres social and has traditionally been reserved only for women.

This tradition dates back to medieval times when a father didn’t approve of a marriage or refused to provide a dowry. The community would gather together to gift the bride with essential household items she would need.

In today’s modern times, the wedding shower has evolved to be a couple’s shower with a co-ed guest list, with both engaged parties attending. This event often has a theme and fun games that revolve around the couple or married life.

Bridesmaids and groomsmen luncheon

The luncheons for the bridesmaids and groomsmen are often the first significant event of a wedding weekend, taking place in the afternoon the day before the ceremony. It’s a time for the bride and her bridesmaids and the groom and his groomsmen to enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed environment before all the craziness of the wedding day ensues.

The mid-day activities typically occur on the same day, although they’re generally hosted in different locations. The wedding party has traditionally planned and covered the cost of these luncheons, but given the numerous expenses they already have to pay for, many modern couples are choosing to cover the expense themselves.

This is one of the pre-wedding parties that are still relatively new and not practiced by everyone. But the bridesmaid and groomsmen luncheon is an excellent way for the soon-to-be weds to enjoy their favourite people and extend the wedding celebrations without all their guests.

Bachelorette and bachelor parties

Weddings celebrate the couple joining together in love and commitment, and the most anticipated of the pre-wedding parties are the bachelorette and bachelor parties which celebrate the individuals. So let’s party!

These soirees symbolize a final fling of singledom, celebrated with a group of the bride and groom’s closest friends. It can be anything from one fun night out on the town to a multi-day adventure.

epic bachelorette party pre and post-wedding parties — Photographer: Alice Monnier Photographie

Rehearsal dinner for the bridal party

The final formal event before the wedding is the rehearsal dinner. As the name suggests, this dinner follows the ceremony rehearsal. The wedding party, immediate family, and anyone involved in the ceremony is often invited to the rehearsal dinner, but out-of-town guests may also receive an invitation.

The rehearsal dinner is customarily hosted by the groom’s parents, though the wedding couple also commonly hosts it themselves. Although there are many options for where to host a rehearsal dinner, private rooms at restaurants or in homes are the best choices.

Welcome party for the guests

The welcome party is a terrific way to kick off your big weekend if you and your partner expect many out-of-town guests. This activity brings your guests together to foster conversation and create a lively atmosphere.

A simple backyard cookout, a private room at a neighbourhood restaurant, or a cocktail party at a hotel bar are all good options. This is the ideal occasion to catch up with distant relatives and friends.

Day after brunch

A brunch held the day after the wedding allows guests to say farewell following a weekend of celebration. This is also a great opportunity for out-of-town guests to say goodbye to family and friends. It’s generally a fun and relaxed event that’s held at a restaurant, banquet hall or at home, and many times is laid out as a buffet-style meal that combines breakfast and lunch items but can truly be any style you prefer...and here’s to your SPECTACULAR wedding day! ~ Dave ~

21Jul

ARRIVE & DEPART YOUR WEDDING ... IN STYLE!

Imagine a classic vintage car like a Rolls Royce pulling up, its sleek lines reflecting the glimmering sunlight, whisking you to your fairytale wedding ceremony. Or picture yourselves soaring through the skies in a luxurious helicopter as you make your grand exit from your wedding. Luxury wedding transportation is a great way to elevate your event from ordinary to extraordinary, and these two ideas are just the beginning. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional or seeking something entirely out-of-the-box, there are endless possibilities to ensure you and your partner arrive and depart in style, leaving your guests in awe. So, if you’re ready to turn heads and leave a lasting impression, join us as we explore a curated list of unique and captivating ideas for luxury wedding transportation.

Classic vintage car

When it comes to ultra-stylish wedding transportation, few options can match the allure of a vintage car. Stepping into a beautifully restored classic vehicle will transport you back in time to a bygone era of romance and elegance. The gentle purr of the engine, the luxurious interior, and the graceful curves of the bodywork will perfectly complement sophisticated weddings. Look into renting a vintage Rolls-Royce, a glamorous Cadillac or a sleek Jaguar, all of which will add a dash of old-world glamour to your special day.

Stretch limousine

Stretch limousines have been the quintessential choice for luxury wedding transportation for generations. And it’s no surprise why — they’re timeless and luxurious to boot, ensuring a stylish and unforgettable entrance. With its luxurious amenities and spacious interior, a stretch limousine offers comfort and sophistication, allowing you to savour every moment of your journey to the altar.

Luxury sports car

For daring and adventurous couples, choosing a luxury sports car for your wedding transportation is the ultimate statement of style and excitement. Imagine the thrill of speeding to your ceremony in a sleek and powerful machine, turning heads and leaving guests in awe. Combining cutting-edge design and high-performance engineering creates an unparalleled experience, reflecting your dynamic love and shared passion for life’s exhilarating moments. With a luxury sports car as your chariot, you’re not only making a grand entrance or exit, but also setting the stage for an unforgettable wedding day that perfectly embodies your spirit of adventure and celebration.

Helicopter

Whisking away from your wedding together in a helicopter is the epitome of high-class adventure, taking your celebration to new heights — literally! You can charter a helicopter for a few hours to transport you from the wedding ceremony to reception, making for an incredible getaway and photo opp. Plus, boarding a luxury chopper right after saying “I do” is a chance to steal a private moment, high above the clouds, amidst the whirlwind of the day.

Horse-drawn Cinderella carriage

We can’t complete our list of luxury wedding transportation without including a horse-drawn carriage ride. Step into your real-life fairytale with a Cinderella horse and carriage ride, which will transform your wedding day into a magical and unforgettable experience. As you arrive at your ceremony or depart as newlyweds, the enchanting carriage, drawn by regal horses, will capture the hearts of everyone present. It will be a scene straight from a movie, one that you’ll cherish forever.

Unique wedding transportation ideas

Luxury wedding transportation doesn’t just include vehicles with four wheels — there are many other unique options that will get you from point A to point B. Your wedding venue of choice can help determine what type of transportation will best suit your wedding. Here are a few fun ideas:

Pedicab
Taxi
Streetcar
Segue
Ski lift
Tractor (perfect for rustic weddings)
Moped
Dog sled team
Motorcycle
Golf cart
Seaplane
Antique train or trolley

... and here's to your AMAZING wedding day! ~ Dave ~

09Jul

KIDS AT YOUR WEDDING?

Are you considering a child free wedding? From what we’ve seen, there are pros and cons.

Are you considering your wedding a “child free” zone? No we’re not talking about infants - although it seems mandatory to have a screaming baby during the most tender moments of your ceremony. That’s always the chance you take. We’re talking about those kids that are generally preteen and clearly do not want to be at a wedding and are bored out of their minds.

We can’t tell you the amount of brides we’ve worked with over the years who tell us in advance there’s not a chance there will be any children allowed at their wedding. They’ve been to way too many weddings where children are completely disruptive, while parents are getting three sheets to the wind and their children are misbehaving and causing a ruckus.

You might wonder how this affects us as a wedding vendor? Well, we set up thousands of dollars of sensitive electronic equipment. We don’t generally think of the dance floor or photobooth area as McDonald’s Playland- but clearly some parents do. Not only could children damage the equipment but they can seriously injure themselves.

I DJ’d a wedding in 2017 where children were running around in circles on the dance floor during dinner and I politely advised the parents that it was very unsafe and they should remove them for their own safety. They got seriously upset and left the wedding and then wrote a review as to what a monster I was. Go figure. I was more concerned with their safety than anything else. Clearly, the parents were not. I simply didn’t think it was a good idea for a 50 pound speaker to come tumbling down on a child.

There is a simple solution to all this: have those kids around a preteen age supervise a designated play area at the venue for the toddlers that need and want something to do such as colouring, playing games, organizing, a sing-along - even in a separate room. We’ve seen this and it works great. Those pre-teen children then have a purpose at the wedding and the toddlers are kept busy. It’s a win-win for everyone!

The other option is simple: designate your wedding a “child free” zone and be done with it. You are almost guaranteed to get some pushback, but either way you are taking a risk in ensuring a successful outcome of your most special day. Wedding receptions are not cheap and are an immense planning project. As 25+ year wedding pros we strongly encourage you to consider all these options… and here’s to you having an amazing wedding day! ~ Dave ~