We’re excited to share a gorgeous June 2011 wedding that was recently featured in the Weddings in Alberta Inspiration Room.

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Melissa + Mike’s wedding day began at Convocation Hall – one of Edmonton’s most historic venues. Following the ceremony, the wedding party took photos in Edmonton’s downtown core before heading to a gorgeous reception in the Quartz Ballroom at Matrix Hotel. This sports-loving couple wanted their wedding to be classic and chic with a touch of vintage flair. We opted for a black and ivory palette with accents of olive green and copper. The result was stunning and timeless!

Melissa owns a dance studio called Dance Discovery located in South Edmonton, and at the reception some of her students performed a special routine that they had choreographed. It was a fantastic performance and it was very obvious that Melissa’s students love and admire her.

JDS Photography was on hand all day to capture priceless memories for Melissa + Mike, and they rounded out the evening with a fun-loving photo booth which is always a huge crowd pleaser!

 {Special thanks to Jessica for assisting throughout the day!}

The gorgeous couple – newlyweds!

Guests arrived to a warm, ambient ballroom accented with amber lighting and copper drapery. Black chiavari chairs made a bold statement against crisp ivory pintuck linens, while olive green napkins wrapped with a pretty satin copper ribbon added just a touch of colour to the tables in muted vintage tones. Round flower pomanders featuring a mix of ivory blooms and sahara roses sat atop tall black lacquer eiffel vases.

Melissa + Mike’s invitations and reception stationery, designed by Pinkpolka Wedding Design, featured modern typeface and a bold graphic. Melissa added black lace to ivory votive candles which perfectly complemented the stationery design.

The gorgeous three-tier cake was created by Deb from Bee-Bell Bakery and featured detailed scroll-work, black ribbon and a monogram of the couple’s first initials.

Congratulations, Melissa + Mike! I hope you enjoy this look back at your beautiful wedding day. All the best in the future!

Jennifer + Team
Edmonton Wedding Planner

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Vendor Credits:

• Wedding Planning + Design: Jennifer Bergman Weddings
• Photographer: JDS Photography
• Décor Rentals: Special Event Rentals
• Drapery + Lighting: QSD Event Services
• Mink Lashes: LilyMink
• Invitations + Stationery: Pinkpolka Wedding Design
• Cake: Bee-Bell Bakery
• DJ: Revolution Entertainment
• Limousine: Esquire Limousine
• Hair Lace Wigs: Addwigs
• Makeup: MiMi Makeup

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

Constance + Mike were married in Edmonton on December 30, 2010 – my last wedding of the year. These two are perfect for one another! They are both incredibly kind and genuine people, and always put others’ needs before their own.

Constance works in museums so when we began designing their big day it quickly became clear that a Vintage Art Deco Wedding would be a perfect fit. Constance and Mike also wanted to incorporate a few cultural traditions from their family heritages. Greek Jordan Almonds were given to guests in mirrored favour boxes and Ukrainian bread called korovai was displayed at the reception.

Julie and David of JDS Photography were on hand to capture this beautiful winter wedding day. A sampling of the gorgeous images are below:

Constance’s vintage-inspired bouquet by Coral’s Design was composed of antique hydrangea, Picasso calla lilies, Amnesia and Sahara roses, stephanotis, eyelash feathers and green hypericum berries. An ornate silver tussy mussy was used as a bouquet holder to complete the vintage look.

Mike looked dapper in his 3-piece charcoal grey suit!

The ceremony, held at St. Herman of Alaska Orthodox Church, was my first Orthodox wedding and I really enjoyed the traditions and symbolism that were incorporated throughout the service. Special thanks to Crystal for assisting at the ceremony!

Constance took my breath away! From her tan fur stole to the finger waves in her hair, every detail of her ensemble worked perfectly with the vintage theme. The best detail of all – Constance had her mother’s gorgeous ivory lace wedding dress re-worked and it was absolutely stunning!

The art deco escort cards, table numbers, menus and signage were designed by Pinkpolka Wedding Design to coordinate perfectly with the camel and aubergine palette.

The reception was held at The Westin Edmonton. Prior to dinner, guests enjoyed cocktails and canapés to live music by cellist John Fedor. The tables were draped in camel satin linens and topped with aubergine runners and sage green napkins. ABC Weddings supplied all linens as well as the aubergine satin chair wraps.

The centrepieces alternated between tall silver crystal candelabras and clarinet vases with floating candles and Sahara roses (rentals supplied by Elegant Touches).

Constance and Mike decided to forgo a traditional wedding cake and instead they opted to share their favourite sweet treat with guests – doughnuts!

No Greek-Ukrainian wedding is complete without dancing (and lots of it)! Dan from Baseline D.J. kept the dance floor full all night long!

Thank you, Constance and Mike, for allowing me to share in your special day! It was a pleasure getting to know you and I know you will enjoy a wonderful life together.

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner

Tip #7: Be consistent.

It’s easy to get distracted by all the wedding ideas out there. Between bridal fairs, magazines and countless blogs it can certainly become overwhelming, but the key to a well designed event is consistency. Once you’ve taken the time to determine your wedding style, theme and atmosphere – don’t deviate! From the style of your dress to the centrepieces and the linens on the table, the visual components of your wedding should tie together nicely and reflect a similar look and feeling.

One of the easiest ways to ensure a cohesive event is through your wedding stationary. The wedding invitations speak volumes about what kind of event your guests can expect to attend, so it’s important to ensure this first impression truly reflects your wedding style. The level of formality will be communicated through the type of papers, fonts and wording that you use, as well as your venue selections. It’s wise to carry the design of your wedding invitations through to all other wedding stationary, such as ceremony programs, table numbers, menu cards, favour tags – even your guestbook.

Here’s an example of one of our couples’ weddings:

• Wedding Theme: “Urban Glamour”
• Wedding Style: Modern, edgy, Hollywood glitz + glamour
• Wedding Colours: Black, white and turquoise
• Details: White phalaenopsis orchids, damask linens, crystal and feather centrepieces

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Have you heard about our lucky + in love contest? We are giving away FREE planning consultations to three couples! The entry form will be available this Friday, so keep checking back for your chance to win!

Jennifer

Photo Credit: JDS Photography.

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

It’s been a busy month! In addition to helping three amazing couples get married this October, I had the privilege of working with an all-star team of vendors to design a stylized shoot…which, to our excitement, is featured on Style Me Pretty today!

Jenelle Gartner (owner of PinkPolka Wedding Design) and I had been itching to work together on a shoot for a while, and when the fabulous Radelle from Eternal Reflections Photography mentioned she wanted to do a shoot in the fall, we met for lattes and got started! Bringing Janine and James from La Piazza Dasee on board was the obvious next step – the florals and rustic table details are exquisite! Visit the Style Me Pretty feature here to see the stunning images and read about how it all came together.

Millions of thanks to the talented vendors who contributed to the shoot!

• Event Design and Styling: Jennifer Bergman Weddings and PinkPolka Wedding Design
• Photography: Radelle from Eternal Reflections Photography
• Floral Design: La Piazza Dasee
• Stationary Design: PinkPolka Wedding Design
• Chairs & Dinnerware: Special Event Rentals
• Models: Jill Billingsley and Levi McIsaac
• Hair / Makeup: Perugia Salon & Spa
• Bride’s Gown: YBF2
• Bride’s Shoes: Taxi
• Bride’s Ring: Georgie Designs
• Clutch: Bella Fiore
• “Love” Hanger: The Painted House and More
• Groom’s Suit: Vintage Ralph Lauren
• Custom Made Tie: Tie Obsessed
• “Edmonton” Cufflinks: Arete

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Hope you like it as much as we do!

Jennifer

Before reading this post, check out Part 1 to see the state of Danielle + Chris’ reception venue just 27 days before their wedding! Although it was tight, the brand new banquet facility built at La Cité Francophone was finished just in time to host this stunning inaugural event inside its freshly painted walls.

Danielle + Chris met back in elementary school and reconnected later in life. Turns out romance was in the cards and they haven’t looked back. In the slideshow there was even a class photo of them as little kids – it was adorable!

Danielle’s wedding vision was a romantic, whimsical and – most importantly – a pink reception! Some of her inspiration came from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and between the twinkly lights, lush centrepieces and dainty hanging chandeliers, I think old Will would have been proud!

Ashley and Andrew – the talented duo behind Paperheart Photography – did such a wonderful job with the photos! They are relatively new to the wedding industry and I am super impressed with their talent – be sure to check them out! Here’s a look at some of the gorgeous shots from Danielle + Chris’ day:

Danielle’s gown was so romantic and feminine – it suited her perfectly!

Might be the most stunning bouquet I’ve ever seen – courtesy of the uber-talented team at La Piazza Dasee.

Danielle looked A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!

All the fabulous wedding stationary was designed by Jenelle at PinkPolka Wedding Design. It went so perfectly with the theme! The above photo is of the wedding programs at the church, and there is more beautiful reception stationary to come…

The new Mr. & Mrs. leaving St. Joachim Catholic Church.

Gotta love the hot pink shoes!

Danielle + Chris put a lot of thought and work into making their candy table look absolutely fabulous – and boy was it a hit!

Danielle had her engagement ring custom made into a stunning wedding band with vintage flair.

And now for a look at the reception venue that was still under construction just a few weeks before the wedding…

Voila! These gorgeous centrepieces were designed by La Piazza Dasee, and the gold metal trees, crystal garlands and hanging votives were supplied by Elegant Touches. Danielle’s father worked his handy-magic to hang five chandeliers over the head table. Special thanks to Gayeung for assisting me throughout the day!

The table names were of famous couples, and guests had to guess which movie or T.V. show the couple was from before they could eat. Any guesses on the above?

Danielle + Chris: It was an absolute pleasure to work with you on your wedding. I wish you a long and happy marriage – félicitations!

Jennifer

This month Edmonton-based PinkPolka Wedding Design is giving away a russell+hazel deluxe wedding organizer to help keep you on track throughout the planning process. The organizer, worth $75.00, includes:

• Signature Binder
• 12 Section tabs with pockets 
• Planning notebook 
• Organized adhesive note set 
• Sheet protectors
• 2 business card pages
• 10 8-1/2 x 11″ pages
• 5 Multi Format pages

Click here to enter. Good luck!

Jennifer