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

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.