Stellar Events

Janet Gray - Financial To Do's Before Saying "I Do"

2011-06-15T11:45:00.004-04:00

When I first started my business, I went to a women's breakfast meeting called WBC Orleans and one of the women I met at that group is Janet Gray. Janet is a financial consultant with Investors Group and is someone that I respect and admire as a woman in business. She has taken the time over the past three years to sit down with me to bounce ideas off of, give advice and suggestions and planted a few seeds for ideas of things I would like to do in the next few years. I appreciate all the times she has taken to help me in my business, and I would highly recommend her to anyone wanting to invest in their future. Her contact details are at the bottom and I encourage you to connect with her.

Last week I got an email newsletter from her about the financial to do's before saying "I do" which I wanted to share with all my couples. I think it is very important to have an understanding of your finances before getting married. I tell my couples all the time that they should never go into debt for their wedding. See what the article suggests for couples getting married!

Money and marriage – financial to-do’s before saying “I do”

One of the wonderful mysteries of marriage is how two, often very different people, can learn to live as one – and stay that way through thick and thin, the inevitable ups and downs, for many, many years. It all comes from having a strong foundation of love, mutual respect, understanding – and of your new financial life together. So for couples just starting out, here are some essential financial tips to consider.

Build a financial foundation that matches the life you want to build together Be clear on the ground rules right from the start. Decide how you’ll handle shared expenses – especially if one spouse has a greater income than the other. Will you split expenses evenly or pay a portion according to each partner’s income? Consider whether to use a joint bank account or keep individual accounts.

Check your financial baggage at the door When it comes to your credit history, full disclosure is a must. A partner’s bad – and unshared – credit history could cause some unpleasant surprises if you decide on a joint credit card or jointly apply for a loan.

Build from shared financial goals Agree on how you’ll approach major goals like buying a home or starting a family. If you have children, get started on an RESP to help save for their education.

Get it in writing It’s not at all romantic but a marriage contract or prenuptial agreement can be important if you want to protect certain assets accumulated prior to your marriage – like a business or family cottage – or to protect assets for children from a previous relationship.

Expect the best – plan for the worst If something were to happen to either of you, how will you take care of each other? Not a happy thought – but it could happen. Disability insurance can provide a steady income stream for your family if you become disabled and unable to work. In the event of your death, life insurance can provide a lump sum to your beneficiaries. Mortgage insurance can help pay off some or all of that large debt.

Make your life less taxing Reduce your tax bill by taking advantage of all available deductions and income-splitting opportunities like spousal RRSPs and pension income splitting. Use other tax-planning and investment strategies that will deliver immediate and long-term retirement benefits.

Where there’s a will, there’s a way Except in Québec, marriage usually voids all earlier wills – so update yours. Make sure it spells out exactly how you want your assets distributed. Don’t forget to also update your Power of Attorney, in which you indicate who can make decisions on your behalf if you are still alive but unable to make financial decisions.

Be sure your financial foundation is as strong and enduring as your love for each other – talk to your professional advisor about the plans and strategies that make the most sense for your unique union.

This column, written and published by Investors Group Financial Services Inc. (in Québec – a Financial Services Firm), presents general information only and is not a solicitation to buy or sell any investments. Contact your own advisor for specific advice about your circumstances. For more information on this topic please contact Janet Gray, Investors Group Consultant at 613-798-7700 or 1-800-461-3707.

Janet
Helping Boomers and their families live a Richer life.

Janet Gray, B.A., B. Admin., CFP, RHU, EPC, CPCA
Financial Consultant, Elder Planning Counselor
Investors Group Financial Services Inc.,
Suite 200- 1525 Carling Ave., Ottawa, ON K1Z 8R9
Phone (613) 798-7700 Ext . 248
Fax (613) 798-7705, Toll Free 1- 800- 461- 3707
www.investorsgroup.com/consult/janet.gray

http://twitter.com/JanetGrayBoomer

Accepting new clients. Thank you for the introductions.

Tales of a Bridesmaid - Your Wedding Cake!

2011-06-02T12:38:00.002-04:00

Cake is always a fun topic when it comes to planning your wedding. It is the one time I seem to always get the grooms full attention! Have fun when it comes to deciding what you want to do with your wedding cake - you can get really creative with it.

There are a lot of AMAZING cake artist's in Ottawa. The following are definitely not the only ones in the city, but here are a few of my favourites that I mentioned in my post:

www.sugarandspicebakery.c a

www.pasticceria.ca

www.daretoindulge.ca

Produced by Reno Video Productions

For more information about Stellar Events, visit us online at www.stellareventsandweddings.com

The Importance of Engagement Sessions with Your Wedding Photographer

2011-05-27T12:02:00.001-04:00

Last week I spoke to you about some things to think about when choosing your wedding photographer. I wanted to continue talking about photographers and why I recommend doing an engagement session before the wedding day.

Produced by Reno Video Productions

For more information about Stellar Events, visit us online at www.stellareventsandweddings.com

Tales of a Bridesmaid - Things to Consider When Choosing a Wedding Photo...

2011-05-16T12:12:00.002-04:00

Choosing the right photographer is always an important step in the wedding planning process. I always say that no matter how much you love a photographer's work, the most important thing is to make sure you feel totally comfortable with that person! Hear a few things I recommend when trying to find the right photographer for you!

Produced by Reno Video Productions

For more information about Stellar Events, visit us online at www.stellareventsandweddings.com

Tales of a Bridesmaid - Theme Suggestions

2011-05-05T17:47:00.001-04:00

What are some things you should think about when considering your colours and/or theme for your special day? Here are some of my suggestions of what you should keep in mind while thinking about options. At the end of the day, go with what you love and is a reflection of you and your partner.

Produced by Reno Video Productions

Tales of a Bridesmaid - Dress Shopping

2011-04-22T12:49:00.003-04:00

As a wedding planner, I am rarely involved in dress shopping - that is something that most brides want to experience with their mother or girlfriends. Now that I am in the bridal party, as well as helping plan the big day, I was very excited to be a part of the shopping process!!

Here is a sneak peak at the dress I will be wearing as a bridesmaid! I chose a gorgeous Alfred Angelo dress - the only difference is that the entire dress will be a dark purple:

Here are a few links to some wonderful bridal boutiques in Ottawa:
www.withlovebridalboutique.ca

www.miabridalco.com

www.luxebridal.ca

www.justinamccaffrey.com

Produced by Reno Video Productions

Destination Weddings

2011-04-20T09:55:00.002-04:00

Some couples may think they don't need a wedding planner if they are doing a destination wedding - here are a few reasons that may change your mind!

Produced by Reno Video Productions

Tales of a Bridesmaid - Ceremony

2011-04-14T10:29:00.003-04:00

The next thing to start thinking about is your ceremony! Do you want to go the more traditional route and get married in a church, or do an on location ceremony so your guests don't have to travel anywhere? Find out some of your options!

To find out more about some of the options I mentioned, check the following links:

Dr. Alan Viau: www.weddingchaplain.ca

Exceptional Ceremonies: www.exceptionalceremonies.com

All Season's: www.allseasonsweddings.com

Produced by Reno Video Productions

Tales of a Bridesmaid - Choosing a Venue

2011-04-04T18:26:00.001-04:00

Once you figure out your date, guestlist and budget, you can start looking for the perfect venue!

Produced by Reno Video Productions

Tales of a Bridesmaid - Budget

2011-04-01T12:11:00.001-04:00

One of the first things you should start thinking about after you get engaged is your budget - what you are able to spend on the wedding will dictate most other elements in your wedding. You should have a clear idea of what your budget is before starting the planning process

Produced by Reno Video Productions

Tales of a Bridesmaid - Figuring out your Guestlist

2011-03-28T15:52:00.001-04:00

After you get engaged and figure out the time of year that you would like to get married in, one of the next big things to start thinking about is how many people are you going to invite to your wedding.

Produced by Reno Video Productions

Tales of a Bridesmaid - Picking the Date

2011-03-25T10:37:00.001-04:00

Once you get engaged, one of the first things you should start talking to your partner about is what time of year do you want to have your wedding. Each season has something different to offer, it just depends on what is important to the two of you and what you want for your wedding.

Produced by Reno Video Productions

How to choose a Planner

2011-03-21T12:12:00.001-04:00

If you are thinking about hiring a wedding coordinator to help plan your wedding, here are a few things to consider when trying to find the right one for you!

Produced by Reno Video Productions

Tales of a Bridesmaid - You're Engaged - Now What??

2011-03-17T09:48:00.003-04:00

Getting engaged is an exciting time in anyone's life, but most people don't know what to do first in the planning process! In this episode of Tales of a Bridesmaid, I let you know the three things that you should start thinking about when you start planning the wedding of your dreams!

Produced by Reno Video Productions

Tales of a Bridesmaid - Introduction

2011-03-14T10:25:00.002-04:00

For the first time since starting my wedding/event planning business, I am actually in a wedding party. Here is the introduction of my Tales of a Bridesmaid as I take you through the process of planning a wedding while being a bridesmaid! Hope you enjoy!

Produced by Reno Video Productions

What is in a Name?

2011-03-10T11:47:00.001-05:00

I have been asked in the past few years since starting my business, how I came up with the name Stellar Events. Well, here is the story of how I named my company!

Produced by Reno Video Productions

Video Blog - At Reno Video Productions New Studio!

2011-03-08T23:23:00.001-05:00

If you haven't seen my first video blog post, go take a look at that before watching this! I thought the first one turned out ok but I obviously had some challenges (especially with the lighting). I was about to start on my second post when I got a call from my friends at Reno Video Productions with a proposal. Take a look at the results!

Hope you enjoy it!

Get To Know Cristie

2011-02-28T13:23:00.001-05:00

I know I haven't been great when it comes to blogging - I've been SO busy helping couples plan their special days that I don't have time left to write! I think I have found a solution to that: video blogging. I recently hosted an event for the wedding and event suppliers of Ottawa in which we had three keynote speakers. Michael Hughes spoke to the group about getting the most out of networking, Carlo Lombard talked to the group about collaborating and joint ventures and Lisa Larter talked to the group about social media. After listening to Lisa speak, I was inspired to do a video blog. I have done a lot of professional video in collaboration with Reno Video Productions, but thought these video blog entries would be a nice compliment to the professional video round table discussions I have been working on with Syl and Caroline from RVP.

Here is my first try, enjoy!

Lady in Red Wedding with Julie C Butler Photography

2010-12-02T15:10:00.002-05:00

I am really excited to share a link from Julie C Butler (an amazing photographer in Ottawa), featuring a wedding that we worked on together in October. It was the first time we got to work together and we had SO much fun (maybe too much fun!). My bride was wearing the most amazing red dress, she looked stunning! Take a sneak peak at Julie's blog post featuring "The Lady in Red"

http://www.juliecbutlerphotography.com/blog/?p=4341

Cristie Featured on Alan Viau's Blog

2010-11-25T14:25:00.003-05:00

Since I was awarded the 2010 Young Business Person Award, I have gotten so much wonderful feedback and support including a recent blog post by Alan Viau. Alan is an officiant in Ottawa - so if you are getting married any time soon I would recommend giving him a call! Although I haven't had the pleasure of working with him yet, I have met him a number of times at industry events as well as being friends on Twitter and Facebook! Just by talking to Alan, you know that he is amazing at what he does because he loves it. I look forward to working with him soon.

Thank you for the support Alan!

http://weddingchaplain.wordpress.com/2010/11/24/wedding-planner-christie-vito-wins-young-business-person-of-the-year-award/

Exciting Project in the Works

2010-11-25T11:54:00.005-05:00

I am beyond thrilled about an amazing project that I am working on in collaboration with Sylvain Renaud and Caroline Renaud from Reno Video Productions. It is something that no one else in Ottawa has done yet so we can't wait to release it within the next few weeks and hear people's reaction. We have been working on this for the past few months and shot for the first time yesterday afternoon at Tripp Photography's gorgeous studio in the Glebe. In addition to Christine Tripp from Tripp Photography we worked with Baz Kanda from 5 Rivers Studio, Kathy Youssef from Fleisher Photography and Adriano Pagliarello from Media Ball. Stay tuned! Can't wait to share with you what we have been working on. I promise you one thing though: it is going to be Stellar ;)

Guest Blog Spot Featuring Stellar Events

2010-11-25T11:48:00.004-05:00

I recently had the pleasure of guest blogging on Sheila Gallant-Halloran's blog - which led to my last post of her guest blogging for me! Thought I would share the link of the Q&A that I did for her earlier this week.

Check it out: http://sheila0gh.wordpress.com/2010/11/22/guest-blog-some-qas-with-event-planner-cristie-vito/

Enjoy! I had fun working with Sheila on these blog posts this week. Without a doubt, she is STELLAR ;)

Guest Blog: Some Q&As with Travel Agent Sheila Gallant-Halloran

2010-11-25T11:02:00.006-05:00

I am very excited to have Sheila guest blog for me today. She is an amazing Travel Advisor for Vision 2000, and is my first call when working with destination wedding couples! I also recommend her to my couples when deciding on what they want to do for their honeymoon. In my opinion, Sheila is one of the best in the business - definitely on top of her game when it comes to all sorts of travel.

Take a look at what she had to say, during our Q&A:

Why are you in the travel industry?

Everything I do, I believe that caring for family is the most important job in the world. I believe that we all have a finite amount of time to do all the right things. I believe in building memories that families will cherish. The way I value my family is to be present in their lives, maximize quality time, and experience wonder. I believe that we can enhance wonder by carving out magical time together on vacation. It just so happens that I "sell" vacations that will help your family have "wow" moments, and build memories. Wanna buy one?

How do you become a travel agent? Do you have any specialities?

I worked in financial services for 20 years, and regular business commuting took me away from home. We often escaped to Walt Disney World on vacation. So, when I had children late in life, I looked for a way to combine my business acumen with my love of travel. I specialize in Disney travel (my own family has been 18 times), but I add magic to every vacation -luxury, cruise, beach, adventure, romantic getaway, escorted tour, safari: whatever you crave. I tailor vacation experiences to your desires and interests. Some of my certifications include being an Anguilla Travel Connossieur, a Certified Sandals and Beaches Specialist, and being a graduate of the Regent Seven Seas travel agent university, as well as the Disney College of Knowledge.

How long have you been doing this?

I supplemented my personal travel experiences by working as an authorized Disney vacation planner for 2 years, and for the last 2.5 years, I have worked as an independent contractor. I now run my own business as a travel advisor with the Vision 2000 Travel Group, so I can better orchestrate your travel dreams. Vision 2000 is a leading member of Virtuoso, a network of the world's finest travel agencies. This gives me more resources and global connections, and gives you access to exclusive travel offers that you can't get on your own, along with your best value for the money.

What’s your favourite memory of working with a client?

Recently, a client asked me to organize a surprise birthday gift for his wife - he wanted to take her to Disney to celebrate her retirement, cross off a "bucket list" trip, fete her at the best restaurants, have her meet "Winnie the Pooh,” and generally act like a kid again. This is an older, well travelled couple, and I'd organized many trips for them previously. This email is self-explanatory.

You have no idea how surprised, happy and all the emotions that you can imagine she demonstrated when she realised what was happening, and this was the start... I understand why you return there so many times. We will certainly go back as well....In short, there is no other word to explain our satisfaction/pleasure other than say this week was one of the most marvellous and magical weeks that [we]... have spent together.

Do you do destination weddings?

Of course. I have a destination wedding group returning from Punta Cana today.

What’s been the biggest obstacle you’ve had to overcome with a destination wedding client, just by your own sheer will and determination?

One couple wanted a family friend to marry them in the Dominican, but that wouldn’t work legally – so we had them legally married in Canada, and had the symbolic wedding on a DR beach with their friend officiating. Another couple had a set wedding date and after we’d worked hard to secure a judge at destination, the tour operator suddenly lost space on the flight – I had to scramble to make alternate arrangements, but it got sorted.

What’s the biggest stumbling block in taking on/ working with a new client?

I don’t get the do-it-yourself syndrome. I bet you could research how to perform your own appendectomy on the internet, but few would be willing to turn the scalpel on themselves. Yet, many do that with their vacation. There are many scams out there, and many consumer-rating agency sites that are not quite what they purport themselves to be. Why not deal with the professionals that have your best interests in mind?

Why should someone use a travel agent, especially when coordinating their destination wedding, as opposed to trying to book it online?
Group travel is a special animal. You want folks travelling together on the same plane, staying together in the same part of the hotel, paying the same price, and maybe getting some special amenities or travel concessions. Individuals don’t get that booking piecemeal; nor do you have access to the same resources and vendors that I do.

Look - you never get to recapture your personal time, especially your wedding day. So your vacation, and your destination wedding, has to be right the first time. Extraordinary travel experiences don't just happen - they are created through collaborative effort. So, if you're thinking about the kind of memories you'd like to take away from your next vacation, please give me a call.

What is the biggest misconception when a couple is planning their destination wedding?

You have to remember you’re still planning a wedding. Taking the wedding to another destination doesn’t remove the decision-making – it just changes the locale of the party. Involve a knowledgeable travel advisor to take care of the travel, and a wedding planner to take care of everything else.

Do you book honeymoons? Offer any special services or incentives to couples?

Of course! I meet with couples to find out what memories they are looking to take away, and what kind of honeymoon they want. We also offer a honeymoon registry program (allowing guests to contribute funds towards the honeymoon), and for destination weddings, we can build personalized websites for the bride and groom that can feature a gift registry, an RSVP page for all guests with full travel details, and an invitation service.

Sheila Gallant-Halloran
Travel Advisor
Made-to-measure travel: Please, go away!

W : www.vision2000.ca/sheilagh
E : sheila.gh@vision2000.ca
Blog: http://www.sheila0gh.wordpress.com/
P : 613-837-0699
Twitter: @sheila_gh

2010 Young Business Person of the Year

2010-11-23T08:43:00.005-05:00

Last week I was honoured to receive the Young Business Person of the Year Award for the 2010 TD Canada Trust People's Choice Award for the Orleans Chamber of Commerce. I was born and raised in Orleans, so it means so much to be recognized by my community this way, especially since I am just going into my third year of business! It has been a very exciting journey so far and I can't wait to see how it continues to unfold. I have met and had the pleasure to work with so many people so far, and I have enjoyed every minute of it.

Most people in business face multiple challenges, and I think that being a young entrepreneur has a few additional challenges to add to the typical list! Seeing other people my age succeeding in business is very inspiring to me, and definitely helps motivate me when I start to feel overwhelmed. When I accepted this award, I did it on behalf of the two other finalists in my category: Jenna Majkot from Dahlia Party & Event Decor and Jeff Stoveld/Adam Quinn Taylor of Top of the Hill Bakery, who are successful young business people in Ottawa and should be recognized for their contribution to our community. Congratulations to all the nominees, especially the finalists.

I am blessed to be able to do what I love for a living, and I would not be where I am today without the continued support and encouragement of my family and friends - especially my parents! It is because of them that I am living my dream, and I am truly grateful.

Thank you to everyone that voted for me, it means the world to me!

Me with my parents after the awards gala - so happy they were there to share the moment with me!

CHEO Charity Halloween Party!

2010-10-23T11:23:00.001-04:00

Come one, come all to the spooky Tripp Photography boutique studio (901 Bank Street) on Sunday, October 31 from 10 am to 6 pm. Whether you are a ghost or a goblin, a wicked witch or a naughty devil, come get your picture taken in the pumpkin patch.

On Hallowe'en Day, Tripp Photography and Stellar Events are hosting our 2nd Annual Hallowe'en CHEO charity event! For a donation to CHEO, you will have your child's photo taken (in Hallowe'en Attire) and receive a 4x6 complimentary print. All proceeds will be donated to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario.

Remember, you only need to come for 20-30 mins to eat some snacks, get some treats, have your photo taken and enter to win prizes!

Last year was a huge success and we are hoping to double the results this year, now that we are using Tripp Photography's beautiful new studio in the Glebe.

Get your lil' ones dressed up before trick or treating and come get their picture taken for a donation to CHEO. It is a fun event, for an important cause. Come out and support us!

2010 People's Choice Business Awards

2010-10-23T11:05:00.003-04:00

I am very honoured to be nominated for the 2010 TD Canada Trust People's Choice Business Awards this year. It means a lot to be recognized by my colleagues and past clients, so I am truly excited to be nominated for Young Business Person of the Year in addition to a few other categories!

The online voting for the ninth annual People's Choice Business Awards presented by TD Canada Trust ends on October 31st. Over 100 different businesses have already been nominated in 11 different categories. If you haven't voted yet, please do!

The winners will be announced at a gala dinner on November 18th at the Camelot Golf & Country Club in Cumberland.

To vote, just visit the Orleans Chamber of Commerce online at www.orleanschamber.ca/en/index.php

Stellar Events Quoted in The Ottawa Citizen

2010-09-16T15:45:00.002-04:00

When stars align

Mike and Carrie's upcoming wedding is the best-kept secret in town. We talk to the pros to find out what to expect

By Janet Wilson, The Ottawa Citizen June 27, 2010

Mike Fisher kisses Carrie Underwood after she wins an award at the 2010 CMT Music Awards at the Bridgestone Arena on June 9, 2010 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Photograph by: Jason Merritt, Getty Images

With rumours of country singer Carrie Underwood and Sens star Mike Fisher's impending nuptials, we asked Ottawa wedding planner Stacey Price to envision their fairytale wedding.

Price, who has 51 weddings on the books for this summer, has built a solid reputation for executing memorable, high-end events. She was behind weddings for both Jason Spezza and former Sen Wade Redden.

While she was hoping to land Underwood and Fisher as clients, Price believes Underwood may have opted for either Preston Bailey, who organized Oprah's 50th birthday bash and Ivanka Trump's recent wedding, or Colin Cowie, a party planner to the stars known for designing spectacular celebrations around the globe.

"The first step in keeping things hush-hush is for the vendors to sign a confidentiality agreement. You don't want anyone to blab."

A good wedding planner must be discreet, focused, and, above all, a good listener.

Price expects Fisher and Underwood to stay true to their morals, values and religion.

Fisher, a country boy at heart who grew up in Peterborough, and Underwood, who was raised on a farm in Checotah, Oklahoma, have publicly stated that they would like a laid-back wedding rather than an opulent, star-studded affair. While the lovebirds may initially have preferred an intimate event with mostly family and friends, celebrity websites claim the guest list is now topping 250 people.

Rumours suggest the wedding is slated for mid-July -- possibly July 10 -- near Nashville or Georgia, although their new property in West Carleton, just minutes from ScotiaBank Place, could do in a pinch.

Keeping the wedding location secret is tough for anyone to pull off -- especially if you're rich, famous and beautiful. Some stars go to great lengths to keep their plans under wraps. Chelsea Clinton's upcoming wedding location is so secret that guests are to wait for a personal phone call from her wedding planner to tell them where to go.

"I've heard that Mike and Carrie's guests have all been told to show up in a farmer's field where they will be flown or bused to the real wedding location," Price says.

"I always thought it would be in Tennessee. I've heard that the wife of one of her roadies is making the wedding cupcakes and she lives in Tennessee -- although cupcakes can be shipped anywhere."

There's another rumour that the wedding might be held in Renfrew.

"If it's in my backyard, I'll be really upset. Maybe there's a Renfrew in Tennessee," Price says.

There's no denying that Fisher and Underwood ooze chemistry and that forthcoming nuptials will be oh so romantic, from the elegant wedding invitations to the whimsical bouquet of flowers.

Gerry Arial of Silver Rose, often described as Ottawa's florist to the powerful and famous, says Underwood's bouquet should be simple yet elegant.

Many factors determine the makeup of the bouquet, from the length of the bride's gown to its colour. A wedding bouquet should always be carried slightly off to the side as an accent piece, Arial says.

"Carrie Underwood is very dainty and petite, so we'd recommend either sweetheart or spray roses with very little greenery. The bouquet should be one colour and one type of flower. It should also be wrapped in sheer ribbon with nothing hanging down."

Underwood is sure to be dressed in a chic yet timeless gown, perhaps in silk to suit her slender frame.

David McCaffrey, designer and president of McCaffrey Haute Couture on Sussex Drive, says her dress should be fun, with a longer bodice that goes below her backside with random, bias-cut pleating.

"I would make a defined sweetheart neckline. She's in great shape, so she'd want something that clearly defines her body."

On the skirt, McCaffrey says he would add organza flowers and ostrich feathers. The silk satin gown would be made in an ivory tone to highlight Underwood's golden hair.

Cristie Vito, creative director of Ottawa's Stellar Events, says the couple's publicist deserves kudos for keeping everything under wraps.

"The media gets a little bit to go on and then throws in some potential changes to keep everyone guessing," Vito says. "They don't want to be bombarded by strangers on their big day.

Today's Bride Feature Article

2010-09-16T09:05:00.006-04:00

I am excited to share with you an article featuring some of the top wedding planners across Canada - including celebrity planner Jane Dayus-Hinch from the hit show Wedding S.O.S. in the latest issue of Today's Bride. I am even more thrilled to be the second wedding planner mentioned in the article, next to Jane, and the only one from Ottawa! Take a look (or for a better view, check out page 64 of the latest issue of Today's Bride on stands now!):

Stellar Events - Get to Know Cristie

2010-08-13T17:25:00.003-04:00

I am thrilled to do the following entry, showcasing a video profile I had done by the incredible team at Reno Video Productions. They were absolutely amazing to work with, and made me feel so comfortable in front of the camera. Special thank you to Pavel from Ottawa Flowers, Joe from Pasticceria Gelateria Italiana, as well as my beautiful couples who all agreed to be featured in the video. Thank you so much! Hope you enjoy the video.

Why Hire A Videographer?

2010-07-23T16:22:00.004-04:00

So, I will be the first to admit that in the past I never really recommended videographers to any of my couples. The reason for this is that a lot of the companies out there had been doing the same type of video for the past 20 years and I thought my couples would get more out of spending a bit more on their photographer rather than hiring a videographer. Well, that has changed! I am still an advocate of hiring a professional photographer, but there are some exciting things becoming available to wedding couples in Ottawa with regards to wedding videos. Two of my favourite companies are: Reno Video Productions and Media Ball!

Instead of getting hours and hours of footage (let's be honest, that gets boring pretty fast!), the video montages that are now available are a great way to get a sense of the overall wedding. Imagine being able to share that with your kids or grand kids! Not only would they get to see what you looked like on your wedding day, they would actually be able to hear some of the touching words and promises that you made to each other. With video, they are able to capture the entire essence of your wedding day. Trust me when I say that this is a video that you will watch over and over and over again!!

But don't take my word for it, take a look at a video produced by Reno Video Productions and see for yourself. Although this isn't one of my couples, the groom is a colleague and friend that recently got married. It was actually seeing this video that got me excited about all the potential available here in the city. If you like the beautiful flowers, they were all done by Ottawa Flowers.

Real Weddings: Janice & Enrico

2010-06-06T14:05:00.023-04:00

All photos courtesy of Seize the Moment Photography

One of the best parts of what I do is getting to know my clients while helping them plan their special day. I've been really blessed with all the couples I have had the chance to work with - whether it is for day of coordination or full coordination, I always have a bond with my clients and usually miss them after the wedding because we don't connect on as regular a basis. Somewhere along the ling through all the meetings, emails and telephone conversations I become friends with my couples which makes it that much more special for me to see everything come together in the end on their wedding day!

The beautiful bride getting ready, captured by the amazing Jerome Scullion of Seize the Moment Photography!

One of these special couples that touched my heart was Janice and Enrico. They had been together for many years with no real intentions of ever tying the knot. Then one day, a close family member was diagnosed with cancer and passed away very shortly after. It definitely changed their perspective on life and Enrico proposed a few weeks later!

Handsome Enrico before the ceremony!

Janice and Enrico have an amazing sense of humour and made me laugh on a daily basis. Planning a wedding can be stressful, but I want all my couples to have fun throughout the process! When I first met them, Janice told me that she would have been happy to get married by a JP at City Hall. However, it turned out to be a beautiful ceremony and reception at the Museum of Civilization - Enrico had never been married before and he said since he waited so long to tie the knot he wanted to do it right!

Here are some highlights from their special day:

The ceremony was held in the Southern Salon of the Museum of Civilization - All the gorgeous decor and flowers were from Wedecor.

It was very important for Janice to incorporate Heather (the flower) into her wedding bouquets which was for her mother who had passed away. On the day itself, she felt like her mom was there with her. It was very special, and meant a lot to her.

Family is very important to them, so it meant a lot for Janice to have her son walk her down the aisle and give her away. Her daughter and her sister were her bridesmaids, which also meant so much to her! They walked into the beautiful melodies of a live harpist.

They had a beautiful ceremony, which incorporated their sense of humour at times, surrounded by their family and friends.

Presented for the first time as husband and wife! Congratulations Janice and Enrico!

Me with the happy couple!

This was a photo that I took to showcase the "Eat, Drink and Be Married" shot glasses. Immediately following the ceremony, guests lined up for their recieveing line in the Southern Salon to congratulate the couple and were offered a shot to celebrate with them before heading to the Grand Hall for the reception. Having a shot after the recieving line is an Italian tradition that was a huge hit with their guests!

The gorgeous five-tiered cake was created by Joe from Pasticceria Gelateria Italiana. It tasted even better than it looked, if you can believe it! We also got trays of traditional Italian desserts which was served to their guests after dinner.

Because we were surrounded by such beauty in the Grand Hall of the Museum of Civilization, we decided to keep it simple when it came to the centerpieces. We had three vases of varying heights with floating candles, in which we put black and yellow ribbon to incorporate the wedding colours. Very simple and elegant.

As you can see, the view was spectacular!

We had two large screens located on the stage, in which we had a photo montage playing when the guests entered the room. They tried to include pictures of as many of the guests as they could. It was a huge hit with everyone. At the end of the night, Jerome from Seize the Moment put together a slideshow of some of the pictures he had taken throughout the day. It was incredible that he had over 80 pictures that he was ready to show at the end of the day. That is a testament to the quality of photographer that he is - being able to take so many amazing pictures that he could show on the same day! Great job Jerome! For a couple that didn't want a photographer when I first met with them - they were so happy they changed their mind!!

Their grand entrance down the escalators! Most people don't get the opportunity to do this, so it was really special when the Museum asked if we wanted to do. The last time it had been done was when President Obama was there for a visit! You can't tell in the picture, but I was actually tucked down behind Janice holding her dress in the back so that she wouldn't trip on it.

Enrico really wanted to have a special mix of Andrea Bocelli and Celine Dion singing the Power of Love for their first dance. Quality Entertainment came to the rescue and was able to put the two versions of the song together so that each verse was a different singer. They even had a part where they laid the versions on top of each other so that it sounded like Andrea and Celine were actually singing together. They went above and beyond to make Janice and Enrico's first dance so special. It was magical! After dinner, Quality Entertainment got the party started and kept it going until 2 am!

I had so much fun helping Janice and Enrico plan their special day! Hope you enjoyed the pictures as much as I enjoyed planning it with them!

Creative Centerpieces

2010-05-28T11:20:00.010-04:00

Most people just assume that they have to have floral centerpieces because it is traditional, but you can actually have a lot of fun and get creative when it comes to what you are going to put in the middle of your guest tables. Don't get me wrong, I love flowers and I think all weddings should at least have some, but don't feel you are limited to flowers when it comes to centerpieces! It is a great opportunity for you to bring out your personality and make your wedding unique.

Photo by Daydream Photography

For example, I had a bride that was taking photography in school and for their centerpieces they laminated a number of her images, immersed them in a vase filled with water with rocks on the bottom and surrounded the vase with tea light candles. A very simple way to bring themselves into the details of the wedding, and was very memorable for their guests.

Photo by Francesco Maragoni Photography

I had a groom that was a huge comic book fan, and they incorporated his love of super heroes into their centerpieces by naming each of the tables after a different hero and put pictures of that character on the table along with vases fill with candles.

Photo by Daydream Photography

Vases filled with water and floating candles is a simple was to create a romantic ambiance for your wedding, without having flowers. You can incorporate ribbons with your wedding colours around the vases to bring in the colour.

Another idea I did was for a 30th wedding anniversary: the traditional gift for a 30th wedding is pearls so what I did for the centerpiece was include pearls and orchids strung together in a vase which was then immersed in water with a floating candle on the top. Around the vase I had strings of pearls and each table had different pictures of the couple at various stages in their marriage. It was very personalized and symbolic for the couple.

Photo by Tripp Photography

If you love flowers and want to include them as centerpieces, that is just as great! Maybe try playing with the sizes of the arrangements - never feel like every table has to look exactly the same. Another fun idea is mixing fruit with your flowers.

It is your day, so you can have fun with it. Think outside the box: there are ways to double the centerpiece as a favour such as boxes filled with chocolates or mini cakes which your guests bring home at the end of the evening. A lot of couples are choosing to incorporate crystal chandelier or candelabras to their centerpieces which is another beautiful alternative to flowers. At the end of the day, have fun and go with what represents you best. Never feel like you HAVE to do something a certain way when it comes to your wedding. It is your day, so do what works best for you!

Happily Ever After

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It is so easy to get wrapped up in all the details that come with planning a wedding so I always try to remind my couples what is really important throughout the process and that is them! What I mean is that a wedding is one day of your life but your marriage will last a life time. A wedding is an amazing celebration of the commitment and promises that you are making to each other as husband and wife.

People ask me what my favourite moment on a wedding day is and I honestly have to say when the bride walks down the aisle to meet her future husband. When all eyes are on the beautiful bride, I always look at the groom. It gets me every time to see the groom's expression when he sees his bride for the first time! Don't get me wrong, I love all the details that go into making a wedding unique and personalized for each couple but there is just something magical that happens when a groom sees his bride for the first time!

Obviously one of the most important aspects of a wedding day is the ceremony and I try to help a couple make that special. If a couple is not getting married in a church with a traditional ceremony, I always recommend Lynne and Keith from Exception Ceremonies. Each ceremony they create is unique to the couple they are marrying - honestly, they have never done the same ceremony twice! They incorporate some humour into their ceremonies, while still focusing on what is important: the start of the couples life together as husband and wife. If you want a ceremony that will stay in the memory of your guests for years to come, definitely contact Lynne and Keith. To find out more about Exceptional Ceremonies, visit their site at www.exceptionalceremonies.com

First photo credit: Josh Jefferies Photography
Second photo credit: Francesco Maragoni Photography

A New Take On Gift Registries

2010-05-08T18:34:00.003-04:00

I recently had the pleasure of meeting one of the innovative creators of Wedding Republic, Hana Abaza, and loved what she had to say about her online registry:

With a Wedding Republic gift registry, you can create a gift list that reflects what you really want. Basically, your registry is a cash fund. You can select your gifts so guests can see what they are contributing towards, and at the end of the day you get the cash. This gives you the ultimate flexibility to use the registry (and cash) to get the most out of your gifts!

It’s easy and convenient for both you and your guests. Nothing is off limits: from camping gear to a big screen TV to that chic plate set only available at a niche store that’s locally owned, you can set up a gift registry that is perfect for the two of you!

Choose gifts from their gift list add your own. You add the photo, cost and description of your ideal gifts. You can even add expensive gifts and break them apart using WR’s Puzzle Piece feature. Guests can then buy “piece” of the puzzle!

Guests pay a small percentage fee on every gift transaction (currently 4.5%). Creating, managing and sharing the registry is completely free for the happy couple, making the gift process for your wedding stress free and fun!

WR is going to be a huge hit with couples - who wouldn't love help saving for a down payment on a home or that dream honeymoon you wish you could go on? To learn more, visit them online at www.weddingrepublic.com

Celebrity Status!

2010-05-01T11:11:00.001-04:00

Yes, you are seeing right! I got to meet Jane Dayus-Hinch from Slice's hit TV series Wedding SOS. Even if you aren't a bride, or work in the Wedding Industry - who doesn't love watching Jane help couples turn a disaster into a beautiful wedding?!? I was at a wedding planners conference with WPIC (Wedding Planners Institute of Canada), and she was there. We even gave her an honourary WPIC pin!

And as if that wasn't exciting enough - I also got to meet Preston Bailey! Wow, what an inspiration! He told us about how he got started and some of the exciting projects that he has worked on. His designs are absolutely breathtaking!

It was amazing to meet Jane Dayus-Hinch and Preston Bailey, and hear their stories from their mouths. The best part was even though they are so well established in this industry, they were more than happy to share their experiences and advice with relatively new planners!

Model Makeover Day

2010-05-01T10:15:00.000-04:00

Last year I collaborated with Christine Tripp of Tripp Photography on a few events that we called Model Makeover Day. The idea behind the events was that we wanted to pamper women by doing their makeup and hair, dressing them in designer gowns from Dominique Levesque Bridal and then doing a glamour photo shoot with Christine. For each event we did, part of the proceeds went to a local charity called Angels In Action that helps women in Ottawa suffering from Ovarian cancer. It was really important for us to tie this event to a charity that benefited women: essentially it was women helping women! The events were a huge success - seeing the transformations happen before our eyes was incredible. As women, we rarely step back and pamper ourselves and the smiles on each of the women's faces was priceless!

Here are some of the photos taken by Tripp Photography:

To see more, visit: www.modelmakeoverday.com

We are not doing any of the smaller events this year because we are working on plans for a gala event next Spring. Stay tuned for more information!

Special thanks to:

www.tripphotography.com

www.chapeauxdemadeleine.ca

www.dominiquebridal.ca

www.bourgetspa.com

www.taiknots.com

www.spahara.com

A Bit About Me

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Thanks for visiting my blog! Since I launched my business in 2008, I have had the pleasure of working with so many amazing couples and very talented vendors. Along the way, people have asked why I didn't have a blog so I thought it was about time that I start. My hopes are that this blog will become a useful resource for couples newly engaged, and for people looking for ideas for an upcoming event they are planning.

I figured for my first post I would tell you a bit more about myself. Although I launched my business two years ago, I have been involved in events for the last ten years. I have a background in Public Relations, so I did numerous media related events in Toronto before I moved back to my home town of Ottawa and started my business. Dealing with the media for many years gave me the experience to work really well with tight deadlines and come up with creative solutions to challenges in short time frames. I bring this knowledge and experience to every event I work on, whether it is a wedding or corporate special event. But more importantly: I absolutely love what I do and I think my enthusiasm is contagious! I have been told many times by couples and vendors that I have worked with, that no matter what challenge I may be dealing with at a given time, I always have a smile on my face and figure out a solution to whatever I am working on.

Last year I was honoured to be nominated and a top finalist for the 2009 TD Canada Trust People's Choice Business Awards for New Business of the Year and Young Business Person of the Year. It was amazing to be recognized by the people I have worked with, especially after the first year of being in business!

That is just a bit more about me and my background - hope you come back and visit my blog again soon!

Photo by Tripp Photography