Vanessa and Jamie were married in February 2020, and while we didn’t know it at the time, they were our last “normal” wedding before the world changed. Lucky for everyone in attendance, these newlyweds know how to celebrate!

Not ones for the traditional wedding reception format, Vanessa and Jamie chose to host their celebration with a cocktail party vibe to encourage mingling and dancing. With mixed style seating, creative food and drink stations around the room, Ukrainian dance performances and an incredible party band (The Barkells), they treated their loved ones to a night to remember at Edmonton’s new luxury hotel – JW Marriott Edmonton ICE District.

https://vimeo.com/422598889

Credits:

• Wedding Day Management: Jennifer Bergman Weddings (Suzanne)
• Ceremony + Reception Venue: JW Marriott Edmonton ICE District
• Officiant: Seanna Collins
• Photography: Sharon Litchfield
• Videography: Blushed Beaute
• Cake: Cake Affair
• Florist: Fabloomosity
• Rentals: Special Event Rentals
• Rentals (chairs): All West Wedding Rentals
• Limo: Last Minute Limousine
• DJ + Photo Booth: Revolution Entertainment
• Reception Band: The Barkells
• Hair + Makeup: Blushed Beaute

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Suzanne, Lead Planner | Jennifer Bergman Weddings
JW Marriott Edmonton ICE District Wedding Planner

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic made backyard weddings the new norm, Lisa + Alex chose to celebrate their marriage with an intimate guest list at Lisa’s childhood home. Their vision for the soirée was a relaxed evening with their favourite people, dining al fresco and dancing under the stars!

If you’re planning your own backyard affair this summer, here are some of our top tips for ensuring a successful event.

1. Expert evaluation. A large, empty lawn can be deceiving – involve an expert to evaluate your space for grade and access to power, and to advise you on the right tent, layout and rental requirements.
2. Bathroom basics. If you don’t like the idea of guests coming in and out of your home to use the washrooms, consider renting portable toilets. The options have expanded over the years and now there are luxury models available with fantastic lighting and ventilation.
3. Be a good neighbour. If neighbours aren’t invited but may be affected by your wedding (more traffic/cars parked on the street, noise late into the evening) it’s courteous to let them know you’re hosting a big event.
4. Consider guest comfort. Use your wedding invitations to inform guests the events are outdoors so they can prepare accordingly. Having sunscreen, fans, bug repellent, lap blankets and umbrellas on hand will make you the ideal host.
5. Prep a ‘Plan B’. Weather in Alberta is unpredictable – be prepared for the worst case scenario. Rent extra tents in case of rain, heaters for chilly evenings and fans to help cool down a hot day.
6. Hire help. You want to enjoy your wedding day so let others handle decorating, bartending, catering, serving and clean-up. Hiring professionals will allow you to relax and avoid placing this burden on family and friends.

Credits:

• Wedding Day Management: Jennifer Bergman Weddings
• Officiant: Howard Saunders
• Photographer: Jacinta Daniele Photography
• Catering: Stir Catering
• Dessert Food Truck: Ohana Donuts
• Florist: Laurels on Whyte
• Rentals (Dinnerware): Special Event Rentals
• Rentals (Chairs, Tables): All West Wedding Rentals
• Hair + Makeup: Filament Hair Inc.

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Elyse, Lead Coordinator | Jennifer Bergman Weddings
Edmonton Wedding Day Management
Edmonton Backyard Wedding