City and Dale is a local lifestyle blog devoted to delighting in what’s new, hot and undiscovered in the capital region – from fashion and style to tasty eats and local happenings. We were thrilled when editor Kendall Barber contacted us to be their wedding expert for a new series: The Edmonton Wedding Guide. The guide is chock-full of fabulous local vendors, unique venue ideas, and tips to help you along the way. Follow the links below to view the full posts and be sure to keep City and Dale on your list of regular reads.

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(1) Unique Edmonton Venue Ideas

• If you have a lot of out-of-town guests attending ensure there are hotel options nearby or be prepared to provide transportation for your travelling guests.
• Is having a rockin’ party one of your wedding priorities? If so, don’t forget to ask about noise restrictions and closing time.
• June through September is an extremely busy time for weddings in Canada and especially in Alberta where our warm weather is short-lived. If you are set on a summer date be prepared to begin planning at least 12 months in advance.

(2) Gowns, Baubles & Shoes

• Before trying on wedding dresses, do your hair and makeup as though you are going out for a nice dinner or a night on the town. It’ll give you a better idea of what the gown will look like on your big day.
• Your dress should complement your wedding location, season and style. Share these important details with your bridal consultant so he or she can help guide you towards choices that will work best.
• Break up your shopping trips – visit no more than two boutiques in a day. You don’t want to become overwhelmed or get confused. 

(3) Cakes, Flowers & Stationery

• When it comes to dessert, there’s no need to play it safe! Be bold and have some fun with your wedding cake’s design. This is a great area to incorporate your personalities and shared interests.
• If you’re on a tight budget, instead of cutting back on all flowers focus your floral funds on a few important areas: your bouquet, the head table, and a statement piece at the reception. These items will be in many photos throughout the day.
• Your invitations set the tone for your wedding’s style and level of formality. Ensure the design, typeface and wording reflect just that.

(4) Photographers – Who to Snap Your Big Day

• When choosing your professional wedding photographer make sure you see an entire wedding that they’ve shot. It’s also important that your personalities are compatible – you’ll be spending a lot of time with them on your wedding day!
• Allow enough time for your photos. Most photographers want at least 2 hours (3-4 is even better). Your wedding planner or coordinator will help ensure your wedding day schedule can accommodate this important photo time.
• Have an engagement session with your photographer. This is like a practice session for your wedding and will help you feel more comfortable when the big day arrives.

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner + Designer

Reception dresses have become quite popular with modern brides. A second, shorter wedding dress allows you to get your groove on during the dance – plus it’s a great excuse to change up your bridal look and accessories! Here are some fab finds under $1000!

Chic
BCBG Avanti Strapless Dress – $328

Vintage
B H L D N Dainty Diversion Mini – $600

Romantic
J. Crew Hyacinth – $926

Fun
Nordstrom Sue Wong with Ostrich Feathers – $574

What do you think about a second wedding dress? Are you wearing one at your reception?

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner

Still looking for the perfect wedding dress? Bridal Début is hosting a Maggie Sottero and Sottero & Midgley Trunk Show featuring the new Fall 2010 Collection. Any new collection gowns ordered during this event will receive 10% off, and you’ll be entered to win your gown up to $1000!

Trunk Show Dates & Locations:

• July 28th to 30th at the Sherwood Park location (153 Pembina Road)
• July 31st to August 1st at the Edmonton South location (5916 Calgary Trail)

To book an appointment call 780.417.1353 (Sherwood Park) or 780.431.0539 (Edmonton South).

Happy shopping!

Jennifer

Photo Credit: Maggie Sottero.