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

A lot goes into the wedding design process at Jennifer Bergman Weddings. We begin by determining a bride and groom’s wedding style – the look they envision, the atmosphere and feelings they want their event to evoke, the level of formality, etc. We then create visual inspiration boards and detailed budgets. Once we’re all on the same page we execute, securing rental and décor items, collaborating with a florist to design centrepieces and bouquets, and working with a stationer to create the couple’s invitations and reception stationery to perfectly reflect their wedding style.

As we’re nearing the end of our 2012 wedding season, it’s so exciting (and rewarding) to see the professional photos from our clients’ events. Before showing you some of this season’s jaw-droppingly beautiful weddings, we’ll first share the design boards behind them so you can get a glimpse at how we take inspiration and make it reality.

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Kristy + Joe wanted a classic, romantic wedding with a modern twist…

Photo Credits (clockwise from L-R): charger plate – Pam Scott Photo; black and white dance floor – Belle The Magazine; bouquet – WedLuxe; centrepieces – Project Wedding; sweetheart table – WedLuxe; bride with bouquet – Project Wedding; macaron tower – WedLuxe.

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

Photo Credit: Kelsy Nielson Photographer.

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On Monday we’ll share the full blog post featuring Kristy + Joe’s wedding…stay tuned!

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner + Designer

We had the pleasure of working with Zahra + Ali to design and coordinate their festive wedding weekend in June. On Friday, special celebrations were hosted for both the bride and groom. Ali’s side hosted their party at Khazana, while Zahra’s family and friends attended a vibrant event at Edmonton Hotel & Convention Centre with Indian and Moroccan inspired décor. Both parties were filled with amazing food, music and of course – dancing!

The next day, Zahra + Ali shared a ‘first look’ before their marriage ceremony at Ismaili Jamatkhana & Centre. After making it official the couple spent some time taking photos with their stylish wedding party before heading to the reception at Shaw Conference Centre’s Hall D. For this event, we opted for a sleek modern design with a palette of pewter, white and pops of fuchsia and purple. The highlight of the evening was a surprise all-male Bollywood dance performance by some of Zahra + Ali’s family and friends – you should have seen these guys move!

Mark Eleven Photography didn’t miss a moment of the festivities – enjoy a sampling of these gorgeous images!

Zahra + Ali: It was such an honour to be a part of your amazing wedding weekend – thanks for choosing JBW!

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner + Designer

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Credits:

• Wedding Design + Coordination: Jennifer Bergman Weddings
• Photographer: Mark Eleven Photography
• Videographer: Aydin Wedding Films
• Rentals: Arlene Yam Decor, Elegant Touches, ABC Weddings
• Flowers: Akiko Floral Artistry
• Cake: Sonia Shewchuk
• Reception Music: DJ Al V
• Bride’s Hair + Makeup: Sunita Sumaru

It’s been a while since we’ve posted a Real Wedding, but that doesn’t mean they’re not happening! Over the past few months we’ve helped dozens of couples say I Do in style, and I can’t wait to share their beautiful weddings with you.

First up is a wedding that is near and dear to me as the bride and groom have been close friends of mine for years. Shannon + Nathan were married on a sunny day in July at St. Matthew Parish. Shannon looked stunning in her romantic lace gown (Grace by Maggie Sottero), accessorized with a gold sash and teardrop earrings.

Their reception at St. Albert Inn was full of touching toasts from family and friends, a ceremonial “screechin’ in” of the groom (he’s now an honorary Newfie!), and lots and lots of dancing! The gorgeous images you see below are courtesy of Jill Coursen Photography.

{A very special thank you to Jessica for coordinating the day so I could enjoy and celebrate with my close friends!}

A collection of family wedding photos were displayed outside the ballroom, while ornate gold frames showed guests to their seats. The centrepieces were a grouping of gold sprayed bottles and floating candles. The bride’s father handmade the chunky wooden table numbers which added a gorgeous contrast to the table décor!

The couple included a special thank you note at each place setting to let guests know how much their presence was valued. An expansive pink and gold sweet table included cupcakes, macarons, cake pops and a variety of tasty candies.

A huge congrats again to my dear friends – wishing you a lifetime of happiness together!

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner + Designer

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Credits:

• Wedding Coordination: Jennifer Bergman Weddings
• Photographer: Jill Coursen Photography
  
• Rentals: Arlene Yam Decor and Special Event Rentals
• Flowers: Flowers Alive
  
• Invitations + Stationery: Pinkpolka Wedding Design
• Reception Music: Baseline DJ
• Transportation: Esquire Limousines
• Gown: Bridal Début Edmonton
• Hair: Amber at Lavish Salon & Spa
• Makeup: Bella Mia Makeup

Being the MC at a wedding is a great honour but it can also be a bit scary. Here are some tips to help you prepare for this special role.

Top 10 Wedding MC Tips

1. Prepare well in advance so you aren’t in a panic the week of the wedding. Type your script and read it back to yourself in the mirror to make sure it flows.
2. Know the reception itinerary (speak to the bride and groom or the wedding planner to get this in advance). The best MCs keep things running smoothly and on time.
3. Inform the wedding planner about any special touches or A/V requirements in advance.
4. Arrive at the reception early to do a sound check. Speak clearly into the mic while holding it approximately 15 cm away from your mouth.
5. Keep your comments and stories short and sweet.
6. Keep guests informed throughout the evening. Give them 10-15 minute warnings before important events occur (eg. dinner, speeches, dance, cake cutting).
7. Ensure the caterer / servers are aware when you are beginning speeches so that they don’t disrupt guests by clearing tables.
8. When introducing speakers, mention something personal about them and/or about their relationship to the bride and groom. Learn how to pronounce their names before the wedding.
9. Don’t have too many drinks before and during dinner. Even though you may be nervous, keeping a clear head is important.
10. Avoid embarrassing subjects and information that can’t be taken back. If you’re unsure about a joke or topic always check with the bride and groom, close family members or the wedding planner.

Good luck – you’ll do great!

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner + Designer

Photo Credit: Sharon Litchfield Photography.