More and more couples are choosing to break tradition and see each other before they walk down the aisle. While this change of format isn’t for everyone, taking photos before the ceremony offers a few key benefits:

• Calm those nerves: If you’re the anxious type, hanging out with the bridal party beforehand will help you relax before the ceremony;
• Feeling fresh: You (and your flowers) will look your best during photos;
• Gone with the gap: If your ceremony and reception are being held at the same venue, taking photos first makes a lot of sense and saves your guests the painful wait in between events;
• Capture the moment: You can still have a wonderful first moment together, and your photographer(s) can ensure it’s captured at all angles.

Check out these adorable pictures of Jacqui + Steve’s first look at each other (photos by the talented Kelsy Nielson):

…and here’s a look at their stylish, modern wedding held at The Westin Edmonton last summer:

Think about it – this might be a great option for your wedding day!

Jennifer

Photo Credit: Kelsy Nielson.

Here’s a quick look at Carolynne + Dan’s blissfully blue wedding reception held this weekend at the Blatchford Field Air Hangar in Fort Edmonton Park. More photos to come soon!

Jennifer

Looking to add a little drama to your wedding vows? Take to centre stage and say ‘I Do’ in a non-traditional ceremony venue. Edmonton has several theatres that can host wedding ceremonies of all sizes. Here are a few to consider for your big moment:

1. The Citadel Theatre: Tucker Amphitheatre at The Citadel offers a unique setting to declare your love for one another in front of up to 150 guests.
2. Festival Place, Sherwood Park: Your rental fee for the theatre at Festival Place includes experienced lighting and sound technicians.
3. Convocation Hall, University of Alberta: Seating over 400 in the audience, Convocation Hall has a truly classic look. Plus, you have the option to rent a grand concert piano for your debut down the aisle.
4. Hawrelak Park Amphitheatre: Protected from the rain and accommodating up to 1,100 guests, the Amphitheatre in Hawrelak Park is a great outdoor ceremony choice for our unpredictable climate!

Have a wonderful long weekend!

Jennifer

Photo Credits: The Citadel, Cosmin Danila Photography, Robert Mejia Photography, Convocation Hall, Rachel J Photography.

If you’re searching for a completely unique, urban venue for your Edmonton wedding, look no further. The new Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) is now open and is a perfect fit for the contemporary couple looking to wow their wedding guests.

Designed by Los Angeles-based architect Randall Stout, the 85,000 square foot iconic building is certainly its own piece of art in Edmonton’s downtown core. And with a handful of different spaces for 20-250 guests, there are a lot of great options to explore for your wedding.

Drop us a line – we’d love to talk about planning your amazing wedding at the AGA!

Jennifer

Photo Credit: Art Gallery of Alberta.