Your wedding invitations and stationery should reflect the tone and level of formality of your event, but they should also reflect you: your style, your personalities and your relationship. After all, that’s what your guests are coming to celebrate!

I have the pleasure of working with Pinkpolka Wedding Design – Edmonton’s premiere wedding invitation and stationery boutique – for many of our clients’ events. Read on for owner Jenelle Gartner’s top tips when considering your wedding stationery.

Tell us about the stylish lady behind Pinkpolka Wedding Design!

I am Jenelle Gartner, the owner and designer of Pinkpolka Wedding Design. I have always been drawn to art and creating, so it was a natural progression that I chose a career in graphic design. I graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Design in Visual Communications and a minor in Business and Marketing. Before starting Pinkpolka Wedding Design, I worked as a designer for corporate design studios gaining invaluable experience in commercial design and production.

I chose to start a boutique design firm specializing in wedding invitations and stationery because I have a distinct style for pretty and cute design. I also enjoy working on such happy and joyous projects which have so many creative elements such as unique paper, shapes and textures along with creative finishes that have limitless possibilities.

What does Pinkpolka offer?

Pinkpolka Wedding Design is a boutique design studio specializing in wedding invitations and stationery. We offer couples stylish and unique stationery options to turn their wedding into a beautifully branded event. We have a large collection of “Off-the-Rack” designs which offer couples a more affordable option of choosing an existing design and simply changing the color. We also provide coordinating stationery to an invitation suite including products such as place cards, menus, seating charts, table numbers, guest books, banners, signage, dance floor decals and thank you cards.

What makes Pinkpolka different?

With a background in commercial design, Pinkpolka was created to offer a fresh perspective to Edmonton’s wedding stationery market. First and foremost Pinkpolka is a design studio – not a stationery store. We pride ourselves on providing creative, non-traditional solutions to wedding stationery. We are not crafters or hobbyists so we take our business seriously and want all our couples to have a polished and professionally designed invitation suite. Choosing Pinkpolka Wedding Design means you are getting the experience and expertise of a professionally trained graphic designer who can provide solutions to any custom project. Some of our projects require hand-assembly, but all of our invitations and stationery are professionally printed and produced using the highest quality supplies.

What’s your favourite part about the stationery design process?

I have two favourite parts of the design process. The first is seeing a couple’s reaction when I present the mock-up of an invitation design. The excitement and happiness clients exude is priceless and makes my job extremely fulfilling. Most clients don’t know what to expect with custom design and when they finally see a visual of the concept we discussed it is usually more than they could have imagined. Seeing these reactions truly makes my day!

My second favourite part of the process is packaging a completed reception stationery order. Our company mission statement is to “create beautifully branded events” and this part of the process embodies that statement. It makes me so happy to see a perfectly coordinated suite of stationery including such items as menus, place cards, signage, favour tags and thank you cards!

What are some exciting stationery trends you’re seeing for weddings?

• Simplicity: A common trend this year was to keep things simple. A lot of couples decided to use a phone and email RSVP, rather than a traditional mail-back insert. Many designs this year used a postcard style invitation with an extra “info card” insert. The info card works well to include RSVP information, a wedding website and any other travel or event related information. In many cases the cost was quite low so clients could invest in some extra details such as envelope liners, cigar bands and metallic stock.
• Bold Typography: Couples have been gravitating to bold uses of typography – both in modern and traditional designs. Using this typography treatment creates quite the statement and demands attention!
• Customization: This year I have had a high number of custom orders. Our “Off-the-Rack” collection includes more than 75 invitation designs, but the majority of clients this year have wanted an invitation created with their own vision and style rather than choosing an existing design.

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

• Figure out your style. Not all stationery designers are created equally. Similar to wedding photographers, stationery designers all have distinct styles. Do your homework and look at a company’s portfolio section to see if they are the right fit for you. You might also want to check each vendor’s pricing to see which one falls within your budget.
• Have a clear idea of what you want to spend. It is easy to become overwhelmed by all the beautiful wedding invitation designs and ideas out there. When you begin adding ‘extras’ like metallic paper, envelope liners and cigar bands, price can increase quite quickly. Know what you are willing to spend and prioritize what you are willing to compromise. Most of the time I will build quotes based on a couple’s ideal invitation and from there optional pieces can be eliminated to bring down the budget.
• Infuse your personality into your wedding stationery. I believe it’s important for couples to be true to themselves throughout the entire process of planning a wedding, especially when it comes to their wedding stationery. Too often, couples have a strong preference to certain colours and styles of invitations but want to make sure they conform to conventions they believe are proper. Social standards have evolved greatly and it’s more common for wedding invitations to be creative and customized to reflect the couple’s personality.

The invitations featured above are custom Pinkpolka designs for some of our 2011 clients. Check out their online portfolio to view even more stunning stationery suites!

Thanks for sharing, Jenelle!

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner

If you’re looking for a unique gift for your boyfriend, fiancé or husband – look no further! Boudoir photography is the art of visually capturing beautiful, sensuous photos of women. I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Kat Gill from Katch Studios ~ Boudoir about the growing popularity of this empowering style of photography. Here’s what she had to say.

Tell us about Katch Studios and the types of photography you offer.

Cheryl and have been best friends since we were kids and Katch Studios was born from our mutual desire to create something together that is beautiful and meaningful. Together, we started out photographing weddings and couples but have since branched out into families and newborns too. Most recently, I’ve engaged in a full-blown love affair with boudoir photography and do this solo along with some amazing stylists.

What inspired you to do boudoir photography?

Before photography, I was a makeup artist and spent years making women look and feel beautiful. With my career in photography, that passion for capturing women at their most beautiful just grew. I also felt like I had a very specific style and look in mind that I wanted to convey. We like to think of it as “modern boudoir photography.”

What do you love most about shooting boudoir sessions?

Simply put, I am a total “girly girl” and I’m obsessed with makeup, hair and styling! I regularly devour fashion magazines and dissect ads and spreads everywhere for posing and lighting inspiration. With boudoir photography I get to put all of those passions into one session. Also, working with only one subject is something amazing in itself!! I love that I can focus completely on each woman and capture her in her best light.

What is a boudoir marathon?

It’s basically a bunch of sessions booked one after another over the span of a day or a weekend. Marathon Sessions are a great value because they include hair & makeup styling and a shorter 1 hour photo shoot for the same price as it would cost to book a Private Boudoir Session that is 1.5 hours long and doesn’t include the cost of hair & makeup. There are refreshments, sweet treats and it’s an all around girly fun-filled time!

What do your clients do with their boudoir photographs?

Women get boudoir pictures done for a wide range of reasons: as an engagement gift for their fiancé, as an original birthday gift to the boyfriend/husband who has everything, or simply for themselves. It’s a great way to capture a moment in time. Many of our clients end up purchasing an album, prints/wall canvases or getting their picture files on a disc.

What tips or advice to you give your boudoir clients to prepare them for their session?

I help them out with suggestions on the types of lingerie & accessories that photograph best and prepare them with lots of little tips like painting their nails and moisturizing. Mostly though, I just assure them that they’ll be in good hands. I put a lot of energy into finding the most flattering poses and angles for each woman and I really do believe I work with some of the best stylists in Edmonton.

Thanks for sharing your beautiful art, Kat! For information on booking your own modern boudoir session visit www.katchstudios.com/boudoir.

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner

When I ask couples about their wedding day priorities, great photography always tops the list. But choosing the right photographer to capture your wedding memories isn’t always easy – there’s a lot to consider! Brianna, owner of Brianna K Photography, shares what inspires her and advises what couples should keep in mind when hiring their wedding photographer.

Tell us about yourself!

I was born and raised in Edmonton. At the age of 23 I moved to New York City to study photography. After receiving my BFA in NYC I moved to Paris where I earned a Master’s Degree in Photography. Living abroad gave me an appreciation for Edmonton and what I love most about it is the people.

Shooting weddings allows me to connect with some of the city’s unique and amazing couples. What sets me apart from other photographers is my ability to bring a little Paris and New York style into my wedding photography!

Why did you become a photographer?

I have always loved the arts and studied art history at the U of A. The more I studied the more I wanted to become an artist. When I was a child my family was involved in the arts and took my brother and I on trips to Europe where I gained a true appreciation for the creative world.

Who have been the biggest influences in your life (photographers or otherwise)?

I am influenced by everything around me – from the frost on the trees to the autumn leaves. I am inspired by my clients and the emotions they embody on their wedding day.

How would you describe your photography style?

I am a fine artist at heart and am represented by a gallery in Edmonton. I also shoot fashion and commercial work for magazines. My wedding style is documentary as I love to capture the intimate moments between a couple. My work is not posed, it is more natural. I really focus on the emotional aspect of the wedding and strive to achieve that in my photographs.

Do you have a favourite wedding or wedding moment that you’ve photographed?

I love all my couples! My favourite moments are when the groom sees the bride for the first time and the intimate moments I capture after the ceremony.

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

It is very important that a couple trusts and feels comfortable with their wedding photographer. Don’t choose someone simply because they are the cheapest – book a photographer who has a style you love and who you connect with. I also recommend doing an engagement session as this helps build a relationship with your photographer before the wedding.

Here’s a glimpse at some of Brianna’s recent work – gorgeous!

Visit Brianna K Photography to book Brianna for your upcoming wedding!

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner

Everyone knows that a DJ can make or break a party, so finding the right DJ for your wedding is a very important task that requires careful consideration. Premiere DJs is a modern, hip Edmonton DJ service that promises an unforgettable dance experience. I sat down with co-owner Harman B to chat about weddings, music and how to throw a great party!

Tell us about Premiere DJs.

Premiere DJ’s is Edmonton’s best boutique DJ service! Managed by Harman B & DJ Kwake, Premiere DJs will match you with the best DJ for your wedding.

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

A Premiere DJ wedding experience is intimate, interactive and modern. It is a custom sound tailored to the clients’ needs, desires and tastes. We are professional, experienced & talented; we mix live on turntables (records) and we have the best digital sound system and offer modern and elegant lighting too! We consult with our clients in advance and tailor their program to their guests, the venue, the time of the year, etc. We also help our clients consider their floorplan and the energy flow in the room.

Who are the right brides and grooms for your service?

Our couples are hip, modern and outgoing who love to travel, eat out, dance and care about giving their guests an experience they will not forget.

What do you love about DJ-ing weddings?

We love the challenge to please an entire array of guests at a wedding – from Grandma to your farmer Uncle, to ethnic-fusion weddings to groomsmen from Fort McMurray! We work hard to find a common ground and get EVERYONE rocking at the same party.

What is the most unique wedding or wedding component you’ve seen?

We like when couples evolve with the times and try something different, such as having no head table, shortened programs, sweet and simple speeches, etc. These elements showcase the evolution of weddings and are appealing to modern brides and grooms.

What is your top tip for brides and grooms to consider when planning their reception / dance music?

• I would highly suggest for couples to avoid stopping their dance during the night for announcements – keep the party going!
• Position the bar close to the dance floor.
• Don’t spread your guests out amongst the room; the more intimate the space the better the energy flows.

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Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner

Still searching for the perfect ensemble for your bridesmaids? A few months ago I blogged about

 Bridesmaid dresses – a gorgeous line of multifunctional dresses that can be worn 15 ways and don’t require alterations!

Edmonton brides, you’re in luck! Twobirds Bridesmaid is in town this weekend showcasing their versatile dresses at Matrix Hotel.

Edmonton Trunk Show
March 5+6, 2011
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Matrix Hotel Edmonton
10640 100 Avenue

More good news – if you place an order during the Trunk Show weekend you will receive $15 off any dress! To schedule an appointment contact danielle@twobirdsbridesmaid.com.

Happy shopping!

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner

2011 is upon us and as many of you are knee-deep into wedding details I’d like to share what we’re seeing for wedding trends this year.

• Honeysuckle is Pantone’s colour of the year and it’s a versatile shade that works with many wedding styles. Pair it with blush and gold to create a romantic, whimsical look or combine with plum and slate for a bold, modern statement.
• You don’t have to be a master-crafter to add thoughtful do-it-yourself (DIY) items to your wedding. The paper napkin ring pictured below serves double duty as a placecard and adds a stylish, personal touch to table décor. Another fun project – gather your bridal party to help assemble welcome baskets for out-of-town guests.
• Ruffles and romance are all over the runway! Brides are straying from the classic white strapless gown and opting for ‘wow’ factor details.
• One-of-a-kind jewelry is a wonderful way to express your personal style on your wedding day. The earrings pictured below are hand-crafted by local Edmonton designer Cara Cotter (So Pretty Jewelry). Her designs are available online and at Coup Garment Boutique.
• From classic shades to metallics and bold colours, glam heels never go out of style!
• You’ll be holding your bouquet for most of your big day – make sure it’s nothing less than spectacular! A large, lush bouquet with carefully considered adornments is the perfect accessory to complete your bridal look.
• A signature Jennifer Lopez look, Hilary Duff ignited the high bun bridal hair trend with her vows to NHL star Mike Comrie last summer.
• Unique stationary is a great way to set your wedding apart. Chunky table numbers and creative save-the-dates are all the rage (check out the gorgeous coasters pictured below!). We’re also seeing a return to classic calligraphy and letterpress invitations.

2011 Wedding Trends Inspiration Board

What wedding trends, if any, are you including in your wedding plans?

Jennifer

Photo Credits (Clockwise L-R): DIY Paper Napkin Ring Placecard – Thoughtfully Simple; Handcrafted Pink Grapefruit Quartz Earrings – So Pretty; Gold Manolo Blahnik Shoes – Next Exit Photography; Hilary Duff High Bun – People; Save the Date Letterpress Coasters – Oh So Beautiful Paper; Bouquet – Luster Studios; Vera Wang Farrah Gown – Vera Wang.

Although the formal photo session is often the least interesting part of your wedding day, it is important to capture images of your close family members and the special people in your lives. After all, there’s no guarantee that candid photos of Grandma on the dance floor will turn out!

Most photographers are happy to work with a list of important family / formal photos, but it’s always best to check with your photographer first and discuss how s/he prefers to handle this part of the day. The photo list can be a great guide for your photographer, but it can also hamper their creativity.

Use the following checklist as a guideline only and edit it to your own specific needs:

………………………………………

Bride’s Side

Groom’s Side

Both Sides

Clinton Family Wedding Photo

Wedding Party (often handled before or after family photos)

Other

………………………………………

Tips to keep in mind:

• The longer your list, the longer the photo session will take. Ensure that your wedding planner or coordinator is aware of this list so s/he can build it into your wedding day itinerary.
• Always inform your photographer and wedding coordinator if there are any sensitive situations in your respective families, such as divorced parents, step-parents, recently deceased family members, etc.

Jennifer

Newly engaged in Edmonton and wondering how to start the wedding planning process? You’re in luck! I have partnered with Novelle Bridal Shop to hold a few intimate evening seminars for you beautiful brides-to-be. This is a great chance to have some of your most pressing wedding planning questions answered and to check out Novelle’s stunning 2011 bridal gown collection.

The sessions will take place on November 1st, 3rd and 8th beginning at 7:00 PM. There are limited spots available so hurry and contact Novelle Bridal Shop to confirm your attendance at one of the seminars!

Email: info@novellebridal.com
Phone: 780.761.0888

Hope to see you there!

Jennifer