What woman doesn’t love shoes? They can make you feel like a million bucks, and your wedding is probably the best excuse to splurge on your dream pair. Here’s a collection of some of our past brides’ amazing shoes.

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First up, it’s all about the sparkle. Warning: you may need sunglasses to look at some of these beauties!

What better way to incorporate your ‘something blue’ than with a pair of gorgeous blue heels?

Studio Jellyfish will create a custom design to reflect your relationship and wedding, then hand-paint the design on to a pair of shoes. Perfect for the bold bride who wants to make a statement on her big day!

These hot pink Kate Spade shoes add a playful punch of colour to an elegant bridal look.

Those famous red soles make Christian Louboutins the most coveted bridal shoe. Our brides have rocked Louboutins in all different styles, from nude patent pumps to ruffled lace stilettos.

For the classic bride, white rosette heels by Cole Haan add just the right amount of fancy to your feet.

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner + Designer

Photo Credits: JDS Photography, Alicia Price Photography, Carey Nash Photography, Sharon Litchfield Photography, Katch Studios, Sharon Litchfield Photography, Julie Williams Photography, Katch Studios, Paperheart Photography, C.J. Scott Photography, Sam Ng Photography, Eric Daigle Photography, Eric Daigle Photography.

Lighting instantly transforms the atmosphere of an event by enhancing the décor and evoking emotions through use of colour. Here are examples of some of our past weddings where lighting has been used. You will notice that the colour of lighting greatly impacts the essence of each wedding:

AMBER / GOLD LIGHTING: elegant, formal, traditional

BLUE LIGHTING: calm, cool, fresh

PINK LIGHTING: warm, fun, exotic

PURPLE LIGHTING: romantic, sophisticated, regal

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner + Designer

Photo Credits: Kelsy Nielson Photographer, Kelsy Nielson Photographer, Night and Day Photography, Vinson Lim, Perry Thompson Photography, Hugh Lecky, Jana Kendall Photography, Katch Studios, Katch Studios, C.J. Scott Photography, Sam Ng Photography, Katch Studios, Katch Studios, Katch Studios.

The last day of 2011 has arrived! It has been an outstanding year full of beautiful weddings and we’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you…

• Thank you to our amazing clients for letting us be a part of such a special time in your lives.
• Thank you to the talented wedding professionals that we have the pleasure of collaborating with.
• Thank you to the hardworking JBW staff for your commitment and dedication to making every event perfect.

Here’s a recap video of some of our 2011 weddings – from Edmonton to the Rocky Mountains, Mexico to Pender Island – it has truly been a wonderful year!

See you in 2012!

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner

Photo Credits: Julie Williams Photography, PHOTOPHILCRO, Mark Eleven Photography, Carey Nash Photography, JDS Photography, Night and Day Photography, Sharon Litchfield Photography, C.J. Scott Photography, Tye Carson Weddings, Moments in Digital, Katch Studios.

Victoria + Nathan are that couple. That couple you know who are so in love that you feel like you’re watching a romance movie when you’re with them. It was only fitting that their wedding exuded romance as well!

Using a fresh palette of pewter grey, ivory and icy blue, we designed and coordinated their wedding at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald. The result: an elegant, enchanting affair that felt warm and inviting.

Here’s a look at Victoria + Nathan’s day with photos by Katch Studios. I had such a hard time narrowing down the photos to share with you (drop-dead gorgeous couple + insanely talented photographers = soooo many amazing images)!

{Special thanks to Sarah and Jessica for assisting.}

Love a groom in a bowtie. Paired with a phalaenopsis orchid boutonniere – elegant and timeless!

Victoria’s gown by Pronovias (Fantastica) from Pure Bridal was full of romantic, cascading ruffles.

The ceremony was held at St. Joseph’s Basilica – one of Edmonton’s iconic landmarks. The emotion on Victoria’s face says it all.

At the reception guests left their thumbprint on a custom guest book tree drawing. The Empire Ballroom is naturally stunning, so minimal décor is required. The room was enhanced with vanilla satin chair wraps, silver damask linens and gorgeous centrepieces by La Piazza Dasee composed of white phalaenopsis orchids, and blue and white hydrangea.

Victoria + Nathan opted to include thoughtful thank-you notes at each guest’s place setting. Blue butterfly place cards added a whimsical touch to the table décor.

The Art of Cake created this gorgeous ruffled white chocolate masterpiece. It smelled amazing!

Victoria + Nathan: Thank you for choosing us to help bring your wedding vision to life. Wishing you a marriage filled with romance!

Jennifer + Team
Edmonton Wedding Planner

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Vendor Credits:

• Wedding Design + Coordination: Jennifer Bergman Weddings
• Photographer: Katch Studios
• Rentals: Special Event Rentals
• Florist: La Piazza Dasee
• Cake: The Art of Cake
• Invitations + Stationery: Notables
• Ceremony Music: Strathcona String Quartet
• DJ: Puttin’ On The Hitz
• Gown: Pure Bridal
• Hair: Ricci Hair
• Makeup: Anita Gill Makeup Artistry

Looking good on your wedding day isn’t enough for most brides – you want to drop jaws and knock the socks off your groom’s feet as he sees you for the first time, right!? Well, to get jaw-droppingly glam on your big day look no further than Anita Gill Makeup Artistry. Anita is an über-talented makeup artist in Edmonton and I have had the pleasure of working with her on several weddings over the past couple of years. Check out what this makeup maven has to say about makeup tips and trends for your big day.

Who’s the lady behind the (makeup) brush?

I have been in the makeup industry for almost 6 years now. I started my makeup career off at MAC Cosmetics and worked there for just under 5 years. It wasn’t until early last year that I decided to move away from MAC and further pursue being a freelance makeup artist – and I can honestly say that that was one of the best decisions I have ever made. In addition to being a makeup artist, I am also just finishing up my last year in the B.Comm program at Grant MacEwan University. People often ask me why I am a Business and Human Resources student if I want to continue on with makeup. The simple answer is because I one day hope to turn this freelance business into a full makeup and hair studio.

Why did you become a makeup artist?

Originally I was interested in makeup simply because both of my sisters, Sunita Sumaru and Susan Gill, are makeup artists. I think naturally I just wanted to follow in their footsteps, but over the years I’ve discovered that it was more than that. I soon realized that my job was more than just doing makeup; it included making women look and feel their best. Knowing that I have the ability to make a woman feel super glamorous is the best feeling in the world. The reactions I get from women after doing their makeup is what makes this job so amazing to me.

What’s your favourite part about your job?

There are two things that I truly love about being a makeup artist: The first is that I am able to use my creativity to make a woman look and feel beautiful. The second is that I get to meet some of the most amazing people; this includes both people that I do makeup for, along with vendors that I have met within the wedding industry.

What are your top tips for brides when considering their bridal makeup?

• First and foremost, it is nice to go into your makeup trial with some inspiration. So even if you just have a picture from a magazine or from a website, bring it with you because it will help communicate what your vision is for your wedding day makeup.
• Keep in mind that makeup always looks a lot softer in pictures than it does in person, so do not be afraid to go a little darker/brighter for your bridal makeup. Having that bit of added depth in your eye shadow and a stronger cheek contour can really make all the difference in your pictures.
• Make sure you get your eyebrows done before the big day. I can’t even begin to describe how much makeup artists appreciate a good, clean brow.
• Lastly, say yes to the false lashes! Even if you choose the most natural lashes, they will still make a huge difference. In my opinion, no makeup is complete without liner and lashes!

What bridal makeup trends are you seeing for 2012?

When I first started doing makeup the bridal makeup trend really seemed to be natural, classy, soft neutrals and mauve. However, this trend is completely changing. The up and coming trends are definitely more of a soft smoky eye with nude pink lips and pink cheeks, and the second trend would be a neutral eye lid, with heavy liner and thick lashes, with a more bronzed cheek and neutral lip.

When should brides book their bridal makeup artist?

Be sure to book your makeup artist well in advance. A lot of people assume that makeup artists can be booked a month or two before the wedding date, but this can leave you super disappointed. Try to book at least 6 months in advance – it is surprising how quickly vendors book up these days! Also, book your trial closer to your wedding day (within two months of the wedding day), even if your wedding day is a year away. I say this because when brides get their trial done too far in advance, by the time the wedding comes around, their style has changed and they decide to change the way they want their makeup. In my experience, brides who have a trial too far in advance always end up getting a second trial done closer to the date. Many brides question this by asking, “Well I don’t want to wait until a month before the wedding, because what if I hate my trial and choose to go with a different makeup artist?” My answer to this is simple – that is why it is important to look around for a makeup artist, to check out their work, and to ensure that they are reputable in the makeup and wedding industry. If all this is done, then you should not worry and just trust that you are in good hands for your wedding day!

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Here are some of the stunning JBW brides and bridesmaids who have been beautified by Anita Gill Makeup Artistry:

Thanks for the wonderful information, Anita!

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner

Photo Credits (from top to bottom): Carey Nash Photography, Katch Studios, Sharon Litchfield Photography.

Edmonton is home to some great venues for weddings and events, but nothing is quite like the new Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA). Many of our clients are attracted to the versatility of this contemporary, urban space – it looks great with minimal décor or it can be completely transformed! I sat down with Elisa DeFazio, Director of Sales & Catering, to get the inside scoop on what makes the AGA an ideal venue for contemporary couples.

Tell us about Art Gallery of Alberta.

Opened in January 2010, the new Art Gallery of Alberta is an engaging and inviting visual arts centre in downtown Edmonton, Alberta. Celebrating its prominent location on Sir Winston Churchill Square, the city’s arts and government core, the building’s architectural design formally and philosophically extends out into the community, welcoming visitors of all ages and backgrounds to experience contemporary art firsthand.

Why is AGA a great wedding venue in Edmonton?

Visually, the building itself is spectacular. Today still, people will walk by and stop or drive by and slow down to look at the design. It truly is a masterpiece!

The diversity of the venue provides our clients with options for any style of function. Brides and grooms will use the theatre for their ceremony and move up to the main floor for their banquet dinner. Some couples choose to rent the entire gallery and have the exhibits open as part of their event program.

Each rentable area of the building offers special features, such as:

• Sophisticated adjustable lighting
• Contemporary furniture
• Drop-down digital projector and screen to display monograms or slideshows
• All tables, linens and small wares are included with the rental fee

Wedding setup in Manning Hall

What spaces does AGA have available to accommodate weddings?

Our banquet spaces are not like a traditional ballroom found in a hotel or conference centre.

• The Ernest C. Manning Hall and Atrium, located on the main floor of the gallery, is the largest and most commonly used space for weddings, with seating for up to 200 guests.
• The contemporary Ledcor Theatre on the lower level of the building can be used for a wedding ceremony of up to 167 guests.
• The Outdoor Sculpture Terrace is perfect for an intimate ceremony of 60 guests.
• The Borealis Room on the fourth floor is a beautifully enclosed glass space, great for small ceremonies or dinners of up to 30 guests.

Our rental package can be viewed online at: http://www.zincrestaurant.ca/events-catering.php.

Zinc Catering is the onsite provider of food and beverage at AGA. Tell us about their culinary offerings.

Our culinary team focuses on fresh Alberta ingredients fused with local artisan food products. When selecting food and beverage for their catered event, couples have a few options: a customized menu from Zinc Restaurant; a customized menu based on a current exhibition showcased at the AGA; a menu chosen from our Banquets Menu (online at www.zincrestaraunt.ca/events-catering). The same culinary team that showcases their talent in Zinc Restaurant (located at the AGA) is the team that provides the high-end presentation and service in our banquet setting. Our Executive Chef David Omar will meet with you one-on-one to help customize your menu providing his expertise, recommendations and creative flare.

Any tips for brides and groom searching for their perfect wedding venue?

Find a venue that compliments your style – whether contemporary or traditional. When venue shopping, bring along inspiration photos that appeal to you and ask the venue to provide you with pictures of other wedding setups so you can get an idea of how the room can be transformed. Ask a lot of questions, don’t settle and have fun!

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Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner

Photo Credit: Katch Studios.

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

Happy Holidays! The festive season is a perfect time to share this bright and bold event with you.

We worked with Saveena, Rodnie and several of their wonderful family members to plan this unforgettable September wedding weekend. Since many of their guests were travelling to Edmonton from out-of-town, Saveena + Rodnie chose to throw a Sangeet party for all the guests the night before the wedding.

Held at one of Edmonton’s quintessential landmarks – the Muttart Conservatory – this pre-wedding bash was designed in shades of pink, orange and gold with luxe Indian flair. The rentals and décor items were supplied by Elegant Touches and the linens were courtesy of Vancouver’s Upright Décor.

Katch Studios was on hand to capture every moment of this action-packed event…

Saveena + Rodnie both looked amazing! Saveena’s hair and makeup were done by the talented Sunita Sumaru.

When guests entered the Muttart they strolled down a red carpet until they reached this stunning floral arrangement by La Piazza Dasee. The entrance banner pictured above along with all reception stationary (table numbers, seating chart, signage) was expertly designed by PinkPolka Wedding Design.

La Piazza Dasee designed modern clusters of angled arrangements on each table which included calla lilies, roses and hydrangea. The ivory centrepieces nicely contrasted the bold colours throughout the rest of the space. QSD Event Services draped nearly every wall in the building with gorgeous fuschia, orange and bronze fabric, while Production Lighting made the room glow with perimeter and patterned gobo lighting.

The authentic Indian cuisine was catered by New Asian Village (West).

Modern white lounge furniture accented with colourful pillows surrounded the dance floor, giving guests a place to sit and chat without straying too far from the party.

There was plenty to take in throughout the evening! A Henna tent was setup in one of the Muttart pyramids and in another, artists Laurel Hawkswell and Gerry Rasmussen entertained guests with caricature portraits.

Elegant Touches custom made this jaw-dropping gold and crystal chandelier which perfectly fit over the dance floor. And speaking of dancing, this party had a lot of it! The night began with live music performed by Vic Khanna, and Premiere D.J.s rocked the party well into the morning!

Visit the fabulous Katch Studios blog for more amazing eye candy from this event! Saveena + Rodnie: It was such a pleasure to be part of your phenomenal pre-wedding celebration – the very best to you and your families in the New Year.

Jennifer + Team

Photo Credit: Katch Studios