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Recently engaged but not sure where to start? Have you been busy planning for a few months and need help figuring out what’s left to do before you say, ‘I do’?

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Take a break from pinning those peony bouquets and join us for a fun and informative workshop led by Jennifer Bergman, Lead Planner + Designer of Jennifer Bergman Weddings Inc. Plan Your Wedding Edmonton is perfect for couples who have the time (and desire) to plan their own weddings, but could use a little help along the way.

Your ticket to Plan Your Wedding Edmonton includes:

• Professional wedding planning guidance through a variety of topics:
  • Getting started
  • Navigating the guest list
  • Setting and sticking to your budget
  • Choosing venues
  • Selecting your dream team of wedding professionals
  • Creative ideas to personalize your wedding
  • Managing wedding day logistics
  • Wedding etiquette
  • …and more!
• Planning workbook complete with checklists, budget guides and valuable resources
• Décor showcase featuring some of the latest trends in wedding design and décor, including gorgeous linens, customized stationery and centrepieces for every budget
• Personal tour of Matrix Hotel’s event spaces, guest rooms and suites
• Opportunity to have your wedding planning questions answered (and hear other brides’ questions too!)
• Delicious lunch and refreshments provided by Matrix Hotel
• Gift bag with special offers from Edmonton wedding vendors – valued at over $950!
  • Baseline DJ – $200 off wedding package
  • Cake Couture – FREE delivery within city limits ($50 value)
  • Esquire Limousine – $100 off wedding limousine package
  • faBLOOMosity – FREE setup and delivery within city limits ($250 value)
  • Laugh Photo Booth – 15% off photo booth package ($75-165 value)
  • Novelle Bridal Shop – $100 certificate towards accessories with purchase of wedding dress
  • Pinkpolka Wedding Design – FREE seating chart with orders over $500 ($180 value), or FREE seating plus 15 tented menus/table numbers with orders over $1000 ($275 value)
  • Special Event Rentals – 10% off your rental order
  • …and more!

EXTENDED: Buy your tickets by January 20th for special Early Bird Pricing!

Date:          Sunday, February 3^rd, 2013
Time:          10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location:    Matrix Hotel (Amber Ballroom), 10640 100 Avenue
Presenter:  Jennifer Bergman, Lead Planner + Designer at Jennifer Bergman Weddings Inc.

Please note that there are a limited number of tickets available and you must pre-register for this event. Tickets will NOT be available at the door. For additional information, please don’t hesitate to contact us at info@JenniferBergmanWeddings.com or 780.298.8244.

Register Now!

Thank You To Our Event Partners!

It’s time for another Inspiration to Reality feature to show you a behind-the-scenes look at how wedding designs come to life at Jennifer Bergman Weddings. Naomi + Tim wanted a bright and bold destination wedding that exuded elegance…

Photo Credits (clockwise from L-R): pink statement necklace – Tumblr; pink bridesmaid dresses – Elizabeth Medina; teal table design – Project Wedding; colourful bouquet – DCM Photography; destination wedding ceremony – Pinterest; welcome bags – Martha Stewart Weddings.

…here’s a sneak peek at their vision come to life!

 Photo Credit: Carey Nash Photography.

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On Wednesday we’ll share the full blog post featuring Naomi + Tim’s Los Cabos wedding…stay tuned!

Jennifer | Jennifer Bergman Weddings
Edmonton Destination Wedding Planner + Designer

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Recently engaged but not sure where to start? Have you been busy planning for a few months and need help figuring out what’s left to do before you say, ‘I do’?

+  +  +  +  +  +  +  +  +  +  +

Take a break from pinning those peony bouquets and join us for a fun and informative workshop led by Jennifer Bergman, Lead Planner + Designer of Jennifer Bergman Weddings Inc. Plan Your Wedding Edmonton is perfect for couples who have the time (and desire) to plan their own weddings, but could use a little help along the way.

Your ticket to Plan Your Wedding Edmonton includes:

• Professional wedding planning guidance through a variety of topics:
  • Getting started
  • Navigating the guest list
  • Setting and sticking to your budget
  • Choosing venues
  • Selecting your dream team of wedding professionals
  • Creative ideas to personalize your wedding
  • Managing wedding day logistics
  • Wedding etiquette
  • …and more!
• Planning workbook complete with checklists, budget guides and valuable resources
• Décor showcase featuring some of the latest trends in wedding design and décor, including gorgeous linens, customized stationery and centrepieces for every budget
• Personal tour of Matrix Hotel’s event spaces, guest rooms and suites
• Opportunity to have your wedding planning questions answered (and hear other brides’ questions too!)
• Delicious lunch and refreshments provided by Matrix Hotel
• Gift bag with special offers from Edmonton wedding vendors – valued at over $350!

Buy your tickets by January 3^rd, 2013 for special Early Bird Pricing!

Date:          Sunday, February 3^rd, 2013
Time:          10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location:    Matrix Hotel (Amber Ballroom), 10640 100 Avenue
Presenter:  Jennifer Bergman, Lead Planner + Designer at Jennifer Bergman Weddings Inc.

Please note that there are a limited number of tickets available and you must pre-register for this event. Tickets will NOT be available at the door. For additional information, please don’t hesitate to contact us at info@JenniferBergmanWeddings.com or 780.298.8244.

Register Now!

Thank You To Our Event Partners!

An increasingly popular trend is to display family wedding photos at your reception. It’s a beautiful way to include family members (past and present) in your wedding. I love this old photo of my paternal grandparents on their wedding day: May 29, 1949 in Melfort, Saskatchewan.

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner + Designer

Ranunculus. Dianthus. Phalaenopsis. Hyacinth…huh?

Flowers may have tough names to pronounce, but their ability to add beauty and life to a wedding is something that everyone understands. Today’s In the Limelight feature is on faBLOOMosity – a new Edmonton flower shop located in downtown’s revitalized Mercer Building. The shop may be new, but the talent behind it has years of experience.

Meet Janine Sebastian. From designing boutonnieres that look more like art than the eyesore your prom date wore, to centrepieces that defy gravity, Janine and her faBLOOMosity team are leaders in the Edmonton floral market and they push boundaries left, right and centre. My favourite thing about working with Janine is her passion and energy – no one will get you more excited about your wedding flowers! Read on to learn what sets faBLOOMosity apart.

Photo Credit: Infused Studios

Tell us about faBLOOMosity:

At faBLOOMosity we specialize in custom floral designs for everyday arrangements, weddings, and special/corporate events. Each client is unique, as is each design created specifically for them. What we do is an art form in which we turn the ordinary into extraordinary, changing the way people view florists and floral design as a whole.

What is your personal experience in the floral industry?

I’ve worked in floral design for the past 10+ years which has allowed me the opportunity to adapt and build my own style and presence within the industry. Gearing myself towards the unexpected and more modern approach has set me apart within Edmonton as a unique and ‘out of the box’ designer. A fan of anything that is “not popular”, I strive to establish new trends and push my clients, and ultimately, myself to take risks and be adventurous.

What makes faBLOOMosity different? How do you provide a distinct wedding experience?

• First and foremost, we are non-believers in packaged wedding florals. What sets us apart is our ability to build off of our clients’ unique personalities, individual style, likes and dislikes, and anything else they’re passionate about to ensure that we truly capture the essence of what it is they are looking for and expecting from us.
• Secondly, we are not afraid to voice our opinions or concerns, as well as love or hates, to our brides and grooms. Honesty is the best policy, and we expect pure honesty out of them and in turn provide that same feedback to the clients.
• Lastly, our amazing team of FAB Florists make for an inviting atmosphere in the shop, and provide our clients with perfection each time. With the team we have in place, nothing is impossible and everything is achievable.

What are some of the upcoming floral trends that you’re excited about?

• One design that I have been working on implementing into the Edmonton market for over a year now is ombré. I was thrilled when a few past clients allowed me to design their wedding with this, and I hope to continue it forward on a larger scale!
• As well, I am a huge advocate for large, structural focal pieces. It really does take your dollar far by creating one over the top focus for your guests to awe over.
• Another way of creating a ‘wow’ factor is by having a more elaborate backdrop behind your head table. Out are the days of boring white voile, making room for things like: texture, LED lighting, en masse florals, etc. Be creative and make a bold statement.
•  am also extremely excited about the introduction of the color mint into wedding designs! It offers a fresh, new vibe and carries a youthful feeling.
• Finally, I am happy to be introducing more elaborate and detailed bouquet handles into the wedding season. Mirrored bands, romantic textures, dramatic graphic prints, and natural elements such as birch are just a few examples of things to watch for from me!

What do you like most about working with brides and grooms?

The sheer excitement and love that fills the room when working with the couples is the most enjoyable part for me. It is SO much easier to build off of that energy. It really drives everything forward and sets the pace for the entire process. Working in that environment truly has the ability to keep me smiling and enjoying my career day in and day out. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of the most important day of someone’s life?

What are your top tips for brides and grooms when considering their wedding flowers?

Don’t be afraid to try something different, and do not allow yourself to get caught up in the opinions of others around you. It is your day – have what YOU want. All too often I see brides give in to what their mother, or sister, or friend, or whoever wants them to have. Everyone has an opinion but remember that it is your opinion that matters the most and it is your voice that I listen to when designing for you. Stick strong to your gut feelings and your vision, and I promise that it will be exactly what you have always dreamed it to be.

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Here’s a look at faBLOOMosity’s stunning work for some of our recent weddings:

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner + Designer

Photo Credits: (top) Eternal Reflections, (middle) Kelly Redinger Photographer, (bottom) Katch Studios.

Jennifer Bergman Weddings is launching an Internship Program! We are seeking creative, enthusiastic people driven to excel in the area of wedding and event planning.

• The Internship Program is 12-16 weeks with an expected commitment of 4 hours per week or 8 hours every other week, Monday to Friday between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
• Currently there are 2 internships available with an approximate start date of December 1, 2012.
• For the right individual(s), we are happy to work with your schedule / hours of availability.

DUTIES MAY INCLUDE

• Creating client intake documents
• Updating wedding venue and vendor databases
• Assisting with event itineraries / production schedules
• Contributing to the JBW blog and social media accounts
• Assisting with PR submissions
• Other administrative duties or special projects

SKILLS REQUIRED

• Enthusiastic and eager to learn
• Reliable / ability to work well independently
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Impeccably organized with a strong attention to detail
• Ability to interact professionally with clients and suppliers via phone, email, online and in-person
• High level of comfort using computers
• Proficiency with WordPress, Adobe Photoshop, GIMP and/or Google Sketch-up considered an asset

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma
• Completion of / enrollment in a post-secondary program
• Event coordination experience is not required but will be considered an asset

COMPENSATION
These are unpaid internships for school credit or resume building. We are offering valuable exposure to the inner workings of a successful wedding planning business. Depending on performance, interns may be offered a part-time position as an Assistant or Coordinator.

ABOUT
Jennifer Bergman Weddings is an Edmonton-based wedding planning and design firm that produces stylish, ‘wow’ factor weddings worldwide.

• We have planned and coordinated over 100 weddings and events in the last four years.
• Our work has been featured in national and international wedding magazines and blogs.
• For the last two years in a row we have won the Wedding Wire Bride’s Choice Awards.
• We were recently honoured as a Top 3 Finalist in the 2012 ISES Esprit Awards for Best Wedding.

TO APPLY
Complete and submit an online application form by November 23, 2012. No email or phone inquiries please. Internships are available on an ongoing basis. We will contact you for an interview.

Michael and Haley Shandro are an award-winning photography team based in the Edmonton area. I actually met Michael before either of us were in the wedding industry. I was behind a computer in a Management Science lab in Business School and Michael was my T.A.! Years later we’re both totally passionate about our unexpected career paths, and Michael has a beautiful wife and family. I have enjoyed getting to know Haley as she has a heart of gold and always has a smile on her face. Together, they bring a relaxed, cheerful vibe to the weddings they shoot and this makes all the difference on your big day!

Read on to learn more about Shandro Photo, and be sure to visit their blog and Facebook page to keep up with this talented duo.

Quick – give us your best Tweetography (tell us about Shandro Photo in 140 characters or less)!

We love every aspect of photographing weddings. We love playing with light and nature, and looking for creative and interesting ways to let our couples shine.

Why did you become photographers?

We became photographers because we wanted to run a creative business, and we had the opportunity to shoot a few weddings and loved it! We grew the business into a full time career for both of us, and never looked back. We love working with our couples and their families, and thrive on the diversity of each and every wedding. We’ve had our business for 6 years and it’s been an amazing ride, I can honestly say that we look at the world differently.

Who have been the biggest influences in your life?

We often influence each other, bouncing ideas off of each other, and we also expose ourselves to multiple learning opportunities every year (workshops and seminars). Each time we take away something to improve our business and our photography. Our clients also influence everything that we do. We are constantly thinking about ways to make our client experience extraordinary. And of course our families (especially our 2 kids) keep us grounded.

How would you describe your photography style?

It’s a hard question to answer because we don’t shoot in one specific style. Our photos are bright and colourful, and we try to keep everything clean and elegant. I suppose our style is ‘diversity’, and finding the unique beauty and spirit of each couple and wedding.

What’s up and coming at Shandro Photo?

There’s always something going on!  In November we are holding a fundraiser at our studio for Adoption By Choice, a celebration of newly formed families. In 2013 we’re looking forward to working with some amazing couples, but first we’ll be taking a few trips – our other passion is travel. In April 2013 we have our first big speaking gig at the Canada Photo Convention where we’ll be talking about business to an international crowd of over 150 photographers! We’re also expanding our studio to accommodate more portrait clients. Of note for Edmonton Wedding Industry folk – we are hosting a year end wrap party at The Common in October, you can email us for details!

Do you have a favourite part of the wedding day that you love to shoot?

One of Haley’s favourite moments is when the bride is coming down the aisle, and turning around to see the groom’s reaction. We remember that moment of our own wedding and how special it was for us. One of Michael’s favourites is the father-daughter dance, because it makes him emotional thinking about our children growing up. When it comes down to it, weddings are all about families, and we have such a close connection with our own, that it’s truly amazing to share in the joy of a wedding day.

What are some wedding day photography tips that couples should keep in mind?

Relax! Enjoy! If couples ever ask us for tips about booking photographers, we always recommend that they find a photographer that they really connect with, someone that they trust and will have a good time with. We want our couples to have a great time on their wedding day and not feel stressed out! Hiring a great planner can help with that of course, knowing that all of the details are taken care of will put you at ease. The more relaxed you are, the better your photos will be. Of utmost importance also is hiring a professional photographer who will have backup gear, and also safeguards their wedding photos with multiple (including off-site) backups.

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Here’s a look at some of Shandro Photo’s gorgeous images – who wouldn’t want one of these masterpieces hanging on their wall!?

Thanks, Shandros!

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner + Designer

On Friday we shared a glimpse at the design board that inspired Kristy + Joe’s romantic Italian wedding. After spending some time with these two lovebirds, it’s obvious why romance was an important theme for their wedding, but they also wanted to put a modern spin on the traditional. To bring their vision to life we paired bold punches of colour with romantic elements – such as soft fluffy blooms, drapery and luxe fabrics.

Not only was this couple a perfect match on the inside, but they looked great together too! Kristy wore a beautiful ballgown with lace detailing and a sweetheart neckline. Joe rocked the ‘Bond’ look in a custom white and black tuxedo – it was so sharp and classic!

After the ceremony at St. Albert Parish, the wedding party travelled to the University of Alberta to take photos with the super-talented Kelsy Nielson Photographer before making their way to the reception at Santa Maria Goretti Centre. A delicious five-course Italian meal, heartfelt toasts and an awesome dance party rounded out this incredible day. Enjoy the photos below and head over to Kelsy’s blog to see more of this wonderful wedding!

{Special thanks to Jessica for assisting!}

Here’s the B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L bride on her way to the ceremony in a vintage car – could she look any more perfect?! You’ll notice that her accessories and hair change throughout the day (love a bride who is all about the details)!

The bridesmaids wore flowing floor length chiffon gowns (Dessy 2832) in varying shades of pink, purple and red. The stunning bouquets by Laurel’s On Whyte were a gorgeous blend of peonies, freesia, dendrobium orchids, dahlias, leptospermum and dusty miller. This combination was once again a perfect interpretation of modern romance and the ladies looked amazing!

The hall at Santa Maria Goretti Centre was fully draped and lit by Karin and her team at Site 6. Drapery adds so much romance to a room – not to mention, it covers undesirable finishes! The lighting added a modern punch of colour in complementary shades of pink and purple.

The tables were dressed with lavender linens and silver chair wraps. Ruffled charger plates topped with plum napkins and mirrored napkin rings were finished with a “bow” effect to continue the romantic theme. Kristy + Joe sat at a cozy sweetheart table covered in a gorgeous pewter dahlia overlay from Elegant Touches.

A comfy lounge area was flanked by two lucite bars that served Kristy + Joe’s signature cocktail, the Eternitini. The incredible dessert table was a nod to Kristy’s French heritage and included a macaron tower and croquembouche by Cake Couture, as well as numerous French pastries and sweets made with love by Kristy’s mother. Silver vintage frames were suspended above the table for added interest.

Kristy + Joe: You two were so wonderful to work with and I loved being a part of your journey to the altar. Wishing you all of the best life has to offer!

Jennifer + Team
Edmonton Wedding Planner + Designer

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Credits:

• Wedding Design + Coordination: Jennifer Bergman Weddings
• Photographer: Kelsy Nielson Photographer
  
• Videographer: Imago Cinematography
• Lighting + Drapery Design: Site 6 Events
• Rentals: Arlene Yam Decor, Special Event Rentals, Elegant Touches
• Flowers: Laurel’s On Whyte
  
• Cake: Cake Couture
  
• Ceremony Music: Lauren Busheikin
• Reception Music: MC Productions
• Bride’s Gown: Pronovias Planeta from The Bridal House
• Bride’s Makeup: Bella Mia
• Groom’s Tuxedo: Custom Made by Harry Rosen