What’s hot for wedding trends this year? We’re sharing elements you can incorporate into your 2023 or 2024 wedding to stay current and wow your guests!

1. Statement Signage
Whether it’s a welcome sign, a seating chart or an escort card display, a statement piece at the entrance of your event sets the tone as guests arrive. Their interest is piqued and they’re excited to head inside to see what’s next.

Left: JBW | Right: Tomasz Wagner

2. Petite Wedding Parties
We love the simplicity of having only one or two of your besties stand up for you. The benefits of a smaller bridal party? Fewer people to coordinate and cost savings for attire, beauty services, flowers – even transportation!

Top: Carey Nash | Bottom: Nicole Ashley

3. Live Music
Live music adds an ambiance that recorded music cannot replicate. For our clients weddings, we try to incorporate live music during at least one portion of the day – whether it’s for the ceremony, cocktails, during dinner or the party.

Top: Nicole Ashley
Bottom L: Carey Nash, Bottom R: Retrospekt Photography

4. Ikebana Inspired Florals
Ikebana is a Japanese art of floral arrangement that has seen recent resurgence in popularity. We love ikebana style arrangements as they are minimalist and graceful.

Photo: Fragment of Light

5. Fashion
If you’re donning a traditional wedding gown during the day, why not have some fun with a fashion-forward cocktail dress for the reception or dance? We’re loving puffy sleeves, oversized bows, removable capes and sheer detailing.

Top: Bryttanni | Bottom: Etoroma Creative

6. Delicate Greenery
Thick greenery runners have had their moment. We still love greens, but we’re using them more sparingly for a dainty, refined look. We’re also saying sayonara to mountains of eucalyptus! We want to see greenery in a true green colour, or green and white varigated leaves for a romantic, garden vibe.

Photos: Nikki Collette Photography

7. Luxe Craft Cocktails
Step it up from standard sparkling and treat your guests to an expertly crafted cocktail upon arrival. Old Fashioneds are still fan favourites, but we also love tequila or gin-based beverages. Don’t forget to have something special on hand for those guests who prefer spirit-free drinks.

Top: Nicole Ashley | Bottom L: Blushed Beaute, Bottom R: Mango Studios

8. Waste Conscious Events
It seems silly to call this a trend, but we want to draw attention to the waste created by events, and get you thinking about how you can make your wedding more sustainable. Our top tips:

• Say NO to plastic cups, straws and disposable water bottles (anything single use, really).
• Rent instead of purchase.
• Source locally whenever possible – this includes food, décor and flowers.

Photo: Nicole Ashley

9. Bright Blooms
Don’t get us wrong – we’re all about timeless, elegant neutrals – but colour adds so much life to events! Even if you want to stay mostly neutral, try adding a splash of colour where guests may not expect it: table stationery, a statement arrangement in the cocktail reception space, or your DJ booth for the dance party.

Top: Etoroma Creative | Bottom: Kelsy Nielson

10. Mix Up The Menu
99% of the weddings your guests have attended served a soup or salad, followed by a main course and then dessert. Why not mix it up and surprise them with a unique style of service or unexpected courses? Try tapas style family service, or a charcuterie appetizer followed by pasta, a main and a trio of desserts –  we guarantee your guests will be raving about their culinary experience at your event!

Photos: Retrospekt Photography 

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Team JBW | Jennifer Bergman Weddings
Edmonton Wedding Planners, Edmonton Wedding Designers

Sabrina and Romeo had planned to be wed in New York City at the Rainbow Room in April 2020…we all know how that went. Another couple’s plans deeply impacted by the pandemic, and yet another resilient and optimistic response. They moved it home to Edmonton, Canada, and with only a 6-month planning timeline we worked together to produce a very different event than they had initially envisioned.

Trading skycrapers for an entirely outdoor wedding, Sabrina and Romeo’s late summer soirée featured a mirrored aisle for their Sikh ceremony, live violinists, modern Indian cuisine, and two DJs. There was even a suprise appearance by Punjabi singer, Jazzy B! As a nod to their original venue, the Rainbow Room, we had the iconic compass featured on their dance floor.

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Credits:

• Full Planning + Design: Jennifer Bergman Weddings (Jennifer)
• Venue: Aspen Valley
• Photography: Andras Schram Photography
• Videography: Parfait Productions
• Caterer: Zaika Indian Bistro
• Rentals: Special Event Rentals
• Ceremony Arch, Rentals: BASH Decor
• Florist: Fabloomosity
• Stationery / Signage: J. Gartner Studio
• Plexi Stages: Exquisite Affairs
• Cake: Brianne Gabrielle Cakes
• Cocktail Music: Charms YYC
• First Dance Singer: Lindsey Nagy Music
• DJs: Urban Beats Entertainment + Harman B
• Hair + Makeup: MADE by PG
• Vinyl Wraps, Indoor Sparklers: Talent Productions

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Jennifer, Lead Coordinator | Jennifer Bergman Weddings
Edmonton Wedding Planner

Residing in Toronto, Jocelyn and Naheed wanted to host a destination wedding in the majestic Rockies to bring together their loved ones from across the country (and beyond). The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge fit the bill as the perfect venue for their weekend of events.

• The weekend kicked off with a welcome event held in the Golf Clubhouse, complete with live music and a food truck serving sweet treats and traditional East African delights.
• The next morning, Jocelyn and her crew had their Mehndi done while enjoying brunch. Guests joined them on the lawn of the Stanley Thompson Cabin to partake in the Pithi and Mandvo – traditional Ismaili ceremonies held before the wedding to bless the couple with well wishes.
• Everyone donned their best lehengas and Indian suits for the evening Sangeet held in a clearspan tent on Beauvert Plateau. Set right in front of the lake, the colourful decor and attire made for spectacular photos as DJ Double J brought the party!
• Saturday was reserved for an outdoor ceremony held on Whistlers Plateau, with both western and Ismaili rituals. The evening Gala followed in Beauvert Ballroom and featured a 4-course meal, heartfelt toasts. The Rondel Roberts Band and Double J alternated sets keeping guests on the dance floor into the early hours of the morning!
• Sunday morning brunch wrapped up the incredible weekend.

It was certainly challenging planning a multi-event destination wedding during the pandemic (to say the least!), but it all turned out phenomenally. We are especially grateful to Jocelyn, Naheed and their families for being so wonderful to work with and such kind, gracious humans.

Credits:

• Wedding Planning + Design: Jennifer Bergman Weddings (Jennifer)
• Venue: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
• Photography + Videography: Tomasz Wagner, Wagner & Co.
• Florist: Cory Christopher
• Rentals: Special Event Rentals
• Stationery: J.Gartner Studio
• Welcome Event Music: Paul Woida
• Welcome Event Catering: Take It And Go YYC Food Truck
• Ceremony Music: Marilyn Bulger, Harpist
• Reception DJ: Empire Entertainment – (DJ Double J)
• Reception Band: The Rondel Roberts Band
• Hair + Makeup: Nickol Walkemeyer
• Henna Artists: YEG Henna

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Jennifer, Event Producer and Designer | Jennifer Bergman Weddings
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Wedding Planner

In our previous post we shared 5 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Ceremony Venue. Today we’re sharing 5 important questions to ask the venues you’re considering booking for your reception or wedding celebration.

1. What time must the event end? Are there any community noise bylaws that must be adhered to? Most commonly in Alberta we see a 1:00 AM bar closure time, but some venues choose to shut down a bit earlier than this. Other communities have noise bylaws that prohibit loud music past 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM. This can especially be true for venues located in residential areas, or backyard tented events. Check the bylaws in your area if you’re hosting an event at home.

Whyte Museum Grounds (Banff, AB) / Natalie Andrusiak

2. When can the venue be accessed for decorating? When must all items be removed? It may seem early to worry about logistics, but it is important to consider when you will be able to set up and decorate for your event, and when everything must be taken down and picked up. Most rental and decorating companies will charge a premium to come back late at night, so if your venue allows next-day pick up this can save you some cash.

50th Parallel Estate / Tara Peach

3. Is catering provided by the venue, or is external catering permitted? Are alcohol and bartending services provided by the venue, or can you bring your own alcohol and liquor license? It can be convenient when the venue provides all food and beverage services. On the other hand, choosing your own caterer and bar company offers you more control over your menu and budget. In either case, be sure to ask ahead about meal service styles (plated vs buffet vs family style) and any special must-have menu items or cultural dishes.

JW Marriott, Wayne Gretzky Ballroom / Mango Studios

4. What are the nearby options for guest parking? It is helpful to include parking details on your invitations or wedding website so guests have a heads up about parking locations, costs, walking distance to the venue, and whether they can leave their vehicles overnight. If your venue is outside of an area serviced by taxis or Uber, consider arranging shuttle bus service to provide your guests with a safe and convenient way to attend your wedding.

Aspen Valley Events / Andras Schram

5. What is included with the venue rental and what am I responsible for renting or supplying? Find out what the venue provides and what you must bring in yourselves or rent. Some examples of items you may require for your wedding reception include: chairs, tables (ask about sizes), linens, napkins, staging, dance floor, podium, AV equipment (microphones, sound system, projector, screen), dishware, flatware, glassware, candles, easels and coat racks.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge / Nicole Ashley Photography

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Jennifer + Team | Jennifer Bergman Weddings
Edmonton Wedding Planners, Edmonton Event Planners

You can visualize yourself walking down the aisle, locking eyes with your partner, saying ‘I Do’ and sharing that first kiss as a married couple. You’re ready to sign on the dotted line to book your wedding ceremony venue! But wait – have you asked all the right questions?!

Not to worry, Team JBW has got your back! Here are 5 important questions to ask when booking your wedding ceremony venue.

1. Are there any décor restrictions? For example, many indoor venues do not allow real flower petals down the aisle. Some churches have restrictions on what (if any) décor can be placed at the altar. It’s important to find out what is and isn’t permitted before booking your wedding ceremony venue.

St.Joseph’s Basilica / Carey Nash Photography

2. What is included with the venue rental and what am I responsible for renting or supplying? Find out what the venue is providing and what you must bring in yourselves or rent. Some examples of items you may require for your wedding ceremony include: chairs or bench seating, a signing table for the registry, a ceremony arch or arbour, a sound system with a wireless or lapel microphone, and easels for directional signage.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise / Stoffer Photography

3. When can a rehearsal date and time be confirmed? Some venues will allow you to schedule this upon booking, while others will only confirm your rehearsal a couple weeks in advance. This is important to ask, as it may take some juggling to coordinate the availability of your Officiant, Wedding Party, Wedding Coordinator and rehearsal dinner venue.

The Lake House / Infused Studios

4. Is there an indoor or covered backup space in case of inclement weather? Always have a Plan B! If weather is poor, is there an on site backup space you can move the ceremony into? And when must you make the weather call? Often times this can be done on the day of the event, as late as a few hours prior to your ceremony start time, but some venues require 24 hours notice if utilizing the backup space.

University of Alberta, Botanic Gardens / Kelly Redinger

5. Is only one wedding held per day? Some ceremony venues book multiple weddings on a single day (we’ve seen as many as 4 different timeslots), while others provide exclusivity to a single wedding couple. It’s important to understand if you are restricted to a specific ceremony time, and whether you have to hustle out of there following your nuptials or if you can stick around to take photos.

Fairmont Hotel Macdonald / Romy Young

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We hope this is a helpful resource for you when booking your wedding ceremony venue. Stay tuned for our next blog post outlining 5 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Reception Venue!

Jennifer + Team | Jennifer Bergman Weddings
Edmonton Wedding Planners, Edmonton Wedding Designers

JBW is looking to expand our team of Lead and Assistant Coordinators. We are seeking professional, enthusiastic people who are the right fit to join our high-performing team. Details of the available positions and application instructions are listed below – please read carefully, this is your first test!

POSITION 1: Assistant Coordinator

This position is seasonal and casual, however opportunities for growth are always available for the right individual. Most work is on weekends from May through October. This role is perfect for someone who wants to add to their income and/or skillset with a side job. You do not need to have experience in Wedding or Event Planning – we will train you.

DUTIES + RESPONSIBILITIES

• The Assistant Coordinator provides support to the Lead Coordinator at wedding rehearsals, ceremonies and receptions.
  • Rehearsals typically occur on Thursday or Friday evenings and are about 1 hour in length.
  • Most weddings occur on Saturdays and the average shift length is 7-8 hours.
  • Most of our Assistant Coordinators work between 5-10 weddings / events each year, with the majority being held in the summer months.
• Basic décor set up will be required. This involves physical work with light to medium lifting, and a lot of time on your feet.
• Late night décor teardown may be required for some events.

SKILLS + QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma and completion of / enrollment in any post-secondary program.
• Enthusiastic and eager to learn.
• Excellent listener with the ability to follow direction well.
• Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Ability to stay calm and composed under pressure.
• Professional – in both appearance and the way you carry yourself.
• Personable, friendly and a good fit for our team.
• Able to provide your own reliable transportation and cell phone on event days.

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POSITION 2: Lead Coordinator

This position is part-time/casual to start, with the goal of increasing your workload into 2023 and beyond. It is perfect for someone who has flexibility with their schedule and the ability to grow with us. You do not need to have experience in Wedding or Event Planning – we will train you.

DUTIES + RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work directly with Wedding Day Management clients to manage all logistics leading up to the event.
• Lead and execute the wedding rehearsal, ceremony and reception:
  • Rehearsals typically occur on Thursday or Friday evenings and are about 1 hour in length.
  • Most weddings occur on Saturdays and the average time on site is 12-14 hours.
• Provide leadership, direction and supervision to your team of Assistant Coordinators.
• Basic décor set up will be required. This involves physical work with light to medium lifting, and a lot of time on your feet.
• Late night décor teardown may be required for some events.

SKILLS + QUALIFICATIONS

See Assistant Coordinator list, plus:

• Impeccable organizational skills with accute attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills – includes having fantastic email etiqutte and confidence in social situations.
• Ability to work independently without supervision: mature, responsible and reliable.
• Aptitude for applying creative solutions to problems.
• Service-minded with a willingness to go above and beyond for every client, every time.
• Able to provide your own reliable transportation, cell phone and laptop computer for work from home or our office.

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APPLY BY APRIL 10, 2022
To apply to either of the above positions, please send your resume and an introductory email indicating why you are interested in the position to info@JenniferBergmanWeddings.com with subject line “Application for Assistant Coordinator” OR “Application for Lead Coordinator.”

Please reach out by email if you have any questions about either position.

*Please note: We appreciate all applications, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Jada and Daniel pivoted their original (pre-COVID) wedding plans to celebrate with loved ones at a family lakelot. On a warm, sunny day, their backyard celebration came to life with the help of the Cory Christopher and the CC Team, who both designed the event and provided florals.

The evening featured a show-stopping yurt, food truck catering, dancing under the stars and a fireworks display!

Credits:

• Wedding Day Management: Jennifer Bergman Weddings
• Venue: Private Residence
• Décor Design + Florist: Cory Christopher
• Officiant: Dawn Carter
• Photographer: Dallas Curow Photography
• Videographer: Arrow Films
• Food Truck: Curbside Food Truck 
• Bartending: The Bottled Bronco
• Cake: Triple L Cakes
• Rentals: Special Event Rentals
• Hair Stylist: Goldie Salon (Shayla Chalifoux)
• Makeup Artists: Filament Hair Inc.

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Suzanne, Event Producer and Designer | Jennifer Bergman Weddings
Edmonton Wedding Day Management

After Jessica and Eric’s venue closed unexpectedly during the Covid-19 pandemic, plans quickly shifted and they decided to hold their wedding closer to home in Calgary, Alberta.

We transformed The Lake House from rustic hunting cabin to whimsical garden. Nine chandeliers were adorned in foliage and florals and the grand fireplace was flanked with pillars of elegant blooms. From the caricature artist, a karaoke dance party and late night bubble tea, Jessica and Eric created a personalized and memorable experience for their guests. We were giddy with excitement to see this event featured on Carats & Cake!

Their day was nothing short of the fairytale they deserved – a truly magical start to the next chapter of their love story – and we are honoured to have been a part of their Calgary wedding.

Credits:

• Wedding Planning + Design: Jennifer Bergman Weddings (Lead: Suzanne)
• Ceremony + Reception Venue: The Lake House Calgary
• Officiant: Tammy Banting
• Photography: Infused Studios
• Videography: Castaño Media
• Florist: Fall for Florals
• Cake: Bake My Day
• Bubble Tea: Coco Fresh Tea & Juice
• Rentals: Modern Rentals
• Transportation: AM PM Limo Service
• Ceremony Music: Janice Pearce – Harpist
• Reception Music + Karaoke: Pez Productions
• Hair: Jessie Liao Hair
• Makeup: Yumi Shin
• Caricaturist: Rob Milton

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Suzanne, Lead Planner | Jennifer Bergman Weddings
Calgary Wedding Planner