More Floral Designs From Madame K

Thanks again to Madame K Floral Design. Check out her website, http://www.madamekstudio.com/ for more information.

A Sphere-Shaped Vase adorned with a crystal plate on top. The plate holds a mass of open orange roses. Can be done with any colour of course and many different types of flowers.

Depending on the season and colour scheme your options are endless!

An extremely modern Fibreglass Dye-Cut Candelabra with Four Black Cube Vases of 16 White Roses Each. Black and White theme done right!

Amnesia Roses!!! Madame K's Favourite in Vintage Pink but be careful when ordering them; different farms grow different tones.

Why Book a Florist When You Can Book a Floral Designer?

Karen Menegon from Madame K Floral Design has provided us with some eye catching floral designs for all tastes. This floral "artiste" has a unique space in the plateau that serves as her studio. With grey tones, white trim, and pillars topped with gorgeous fresh arrangements, you can't help but fall in love with Madame K and what she has to offer. Even the vintage couch used in place of an office chair captures your attention. Enjoy the next couple of posts. We are sure you will be just as enamoured as we are.

A topiary of Holland Spray Roses on a crystal candle stick. Glamorous, Modern, yet Classic. Different sizes and colors can really enhance your theme.

Using natural green flowers to complement the beautiful Bice Restaurant was essential for this event. Working the vase on the inside with green stones and Mini Green Hydrangea completed the look.

Using beautiful vintage teapots, blue Muscari is a Spring to Early Summer Favourite! Random vases is the hottest trend right now.

9 beautiful pink roses in square leaf wrapped vase provide a modern look to this classic arrangement.

POST-IT NOTE THREE: Wedding Invitations- Fun Times or Bane of My Existance? Discuss.

We know we said we'd talk about DIY vs. Full Service venues and oh trust us, we will. Much to say about that...However, an emergency POST-IT topic has taken priority. S1 as you know is getting married in the coming months. She has been searching high and low for the right invitation for well over a year now. Yup. 12 solid months of STATIONERY STRUGGLES.

It all started with an ad in Martha Stewart Weddings (http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/) for a stationery icon, Anna Griffin. There were these lavender DIY invitations that really jumped out at S1 so she dragged her mother to Greene Ave in Westmount to track them down (according to http://www.annagriffin.com/, this was the only retail outlet in Quebec). They walk in, and ask for the stationery store.

-Awkward man at the front door says, "Oh, I'm sorry but that store closed last year and we now run a fabulous art gallery as you can see". Joy. Invitation yearning replaced by utter disappointment.
"I have time, would you like a tour of the gallery"
-Mom says, "sure".
-S1 is thinking "Tour? We need Plan B woman!"

After 45 glorious minutes of "I really like the detail in this one", S1 & her mom are no better off than when they arrived. At this point, many of you might be thinking "what's the big deal? They're just invitations." As everyone says, the invite sets the tone for the type of wedding your guests can expect and reflects who the couple really is.

Next stop, Le Grand Salon Marions-Nous (http://www.marionsnous.ca/) to hunt for an invitation vendor. They met Anna Montesi of Ink Blot Design (http://www.inkblotdesign.ca/), instantly liked her and planned to meet the next month. Needless to say, Anna does some amazing work and can work within most budgets but S1 and her planning committee (Mom, Dad and HFH) felt that it wasn't within their budget to have custom work done. Not helping the cause, was Mr. HFH wanting to replace the traditional invitation with a simple phone call. Yup. Phone calls.

Next idea, http://www.weddingpaperdivas.com/. This site is fantastic for any occasion and any budget. S1 had ordered her Save the Dates from them a few months ago and was over the moon with the time frame, price, service and quality. Based on the previous experience, she figured this was in the bag. Until the sample arrived. It was teeny tiny, with teeny tiny font and teeny tiny appeal.
Blast! It was looking like all options were being exhausted, until....MICHAEL's (http://michaels.com/wedding). Ahhhh, Michael's. Craft heaven (everywhere that is, except Quebec).

After searching high and low on the net, S1 stumbled across a selection of DIY invitations at Michael's by none other than....ANNA GRIFFIN (not the one she originally wanted but ones that could potentially help to fill the void)! Road trip to Ottawa soon followed. S1 & S2 were surprised to find not only a healthy dose of Anna Griffin and Bride Magazine's (http://www.brides.ca/) exclusive line of wedding invitations, favor packaging, decorations etc but anything you could ever need for your wedding (S1 bought a garter, S2 bought S1's shower stuff- S1 has no clue what it could be as she had strict instructions to stay far away). S1 couldn't decide so she bought 2 different DIY kits in hopes of a moment of clarity in the near future.

Alas, the story does not end here, friends. She hates the invites from Michael's but is torn because the price is so reasonable. She has also found another option from Wedding Paper Divas which is in the running.
Here's where you come in. Below you will find the links to 3 different invitations, I need you to vote on which one you prefer (ps- I'm not leaving out Mr. HFH, he only wants final say).

Invitation 1:
http://www.michaels.com/art/online/displayProductPage?productNum=wd0607&channelid=

Invitation 2:
http://www.michaels.com/art/online/displayProductPage?productNum=wd0572&channelid=

Invitation 3 (in Chambord):
http://www.weddingpaperdivas.com/product/5253/signature_white_textured_wedding_invitations_posh_parlor.html
Worthy to mention, cost. The DIY kits at Michael's are $54.99/30 pk of which S1 needs 2 and the Wedding Paper Divas invites will be about $138 more for the same amount (60 invites in all).
Time to vote!

Next POST-IT NOTE, back to our regularly scheduled topic; DIY vs. Full Service Venues. Discuss.

More Pics from the Civil Wedding in Downtown Montreal

Enjoy!

Thanks Sheila of Photohouse Montreal (http://www.photohousemontreal.com/) for providing these great shots.

Civil Wedding - Downtown Montreal

Sheila Boardman of Photohouse Montreal(http://www.photohousemontreal.com/) gave us these great pictures of a Montreal couple who opted for a courthouse ceremony a couple of months before they held a traditional Indian wedding. Take a look below for all the deets!

**NOTEBOOK NOTE**

For those of you opting for the civil marriage as opposed to the religious ceremony, you want to go to http://www.justice.gouv.qc.ca/english/publications/generale/maria-a.htm. There is a lot of information about obtaining "designated officiant status" if you choose to have someone you know perform the ceremony as well as info pertaining to the regulations that have to be followed in order to obtain the marriage license.

-Bride's dress was designed and made by Darrell Thomas (http://www.darrellthomas.com/), an
incredibly talented and experienced sewer and designer from Ottawa.
-Bride & Groom's shoes were from Aldo (http://www.aldoshoes.com/).
-Bride's hair was done at Id Beaute, 2118 Rue St Catherine Ouest, (514) 939-4420.

-Bride's jewellery was from Lay-Lo Modes, Place Montreal Trust, Montreal.
-Bride and Grooms' bouquet and boutonniere were from Mayfair Florist, (514) 738-1179.
-Groom's suit was from 5e Avenue, Place Montreal Trust, Montreal.

POST-IT NOTE TWO: Community Centre Vs. Trendy Upscale Restaurant

You have an idea but do you have the budget? The age old question. S1 and Mr. HFH really wanted an Old Montreal wedding and so they hit the pavement to check out some venue possibilities.

First up was Auberge Le Saint-Gabriel (http://www.lesaint-gabriel.com/). The Auberge's style is a mix of modern and trendy with a little country thrown in. A huge fireplace when you walk in catches your eye and makes you feel comfortable and cozy. The room immediately to your right, is a great size for a small wedding (~75 ppl) and has beautiful windows. Important to note, you only have use of the terrace out front if you book this room. The room upstairs "Le Grenier", has gorgeous exposed stone walls, hardwood flooring that dates back to the 19th century and more space (~115 ppl with a dance floor). The problem was that this space, in their opinion, was perfect for a Winter wedding. The wood burning fireplace and dark ambiance of "Le Grenier" really emphasized Winter romance. The prices per person for a 3 course meal and open bar were quite reasonable but don't forget to add tax and service.

Next, they hit the Place D'Armes Hotel , Hotel Nelligan and Restaurant du Vieux Port (http://www.oldmontrealweddings.com/). The 2 hotels were gorgeous but pricey (expect menus to start at $125/per person + tax + service). This brings us to Restaurant du Vieux Port. S2 loved the atmosphere and character of this space and will likely be booking it for her & Mr. HFH's Montreal Wedding! Don't feel like you have to decide the day you go to look at a space. It's always a good idea to look around and make sure that the venue is right for you. S2 has been to Restaurant du Vieux Port 5 times and will be back to sign contracts, pick a menu and work with her coordinator! She says not to rush it, you're spending a lot of money so you're better off being confidant in your decision.

S1 and her Mr. HFH decided against Old Montreal because a cheaper and more meaningful opportunity presented itself; they're having their wedding reception at the Kanawaki Golf Club (http://www.kanawakigolf.com/), where S1 and her family have been members for over 25 years. In the end, financial praticality and emotional attachment won and they haven't looked back.

Don't be afraid to ask some tough questions or appear like you are trying to save money. Um hello, we are all in debt and want to save whatever we can! The coordinators you will meet with understand this and will be willing to help you trim a few bucks if it means they get to host your wedding.
**NOTEBOOK HIGHLIGHT**
Here are some key questions to take with you when you go visit your potential venues;
1) How many people can they accomodate comfortably (dance floor, DJ booth, bar etc)?
2) Ask to see the chairs (you'd be surprised how many times we've been shown ... something other than what we were expecting), this could end up costing you in rental fees.
3) Do they charge extra to bring in a DJ?
4) How far in advance can the room be set up?
5) Can we bring in our own cake at no extra charge? If there is a cake cutting fee, how much is it per person?
6) How flexible are they on their menu?
7) Is it possible to have a taste test of the day's menu?
8) How late do you have the room until?
9) What time do you have to turn off the music?
10) Is there a coat/boot check?
11) Can we decorate the room according to our tastes?
12) Will there be a day of coordinator?
13) When are the payments (deposit, 50% payment, balance) due?
14) Do they have any agreements with neighboring hotels?
15) Do they have a parking lot or valet parking?
16) Will we have exclusive access to the venue?
17) Do they have enough bathrooms to accomodate your guests?
18) Do they have a designated smoking area?
19) Do they have adequate outlets and power supply?

Good luck & enjoy this part, it's where you really start to feel like a bride ;)

PS- As you can tell, the debate over the community centre was easily decided. More on that option in our next Post-It Note: DIY vs. Full Service Venues. Discuss.

Eco-Friendly Invites from Wishbuds

These eco-friendly invites from Wishbuds (http://www.wishbuds.com/) are a perfect alternative for a green wedding. These invitations contain seeds within the paper. Once planted they will blossom into flowers. All you need is a garden or a pot, some water, maybe some cute gardening gloves and voila! Your stationary does not have to end up in a recycling bin! Flowers anyone?

Expect to pay about $5 an invite.

Thanks to Sheila Boardman of Photohouse Montreal (http://www.photohousemontreal.com/) for providing these excellent pics!

More of Alex & Olivier's Rustic Montreal Wedding!

More great moments of Alexandra & Olivier's wedding caught by Sheila Boardman of Photohouse Montreal (http://www.photohousemontreal.com/). Enjoy!

Rustic Elegance

We looooove this wedding and are super excited that it is the first Montreal wedding to be featured on The Nuptial Notebook. Not only did Sheila Boardman of Photohouse Montreal(http://www.photohousemontreal.com/) capture great moments, but clearly evident is the couple's attention to detail. Alexandra and Olivier drew from their creative and nostalgic sides to pull together a memorable and intimate occasion.

This rustic affair took place at Auberge Des Gallant (http://www.gallant.qc.ca/) in Ste-Marthe, Quebec (near Rigaud- about 40 minutes West of Montreal). The country setting is perfect for those of you looking for a cozy venue. The Maple Pavillion, shown above, has a capacity of 150. If you like the look of the Pavillion with these chairs, we suggest getting in touch with ABP Locations (http://www.groupeabp.com/), as that was the bride & groom's vendor. You should expect to pay approximately $8/chair + taxes and delivery. A nice twist on the traditional, are the long rectangular tables included with the venue.

The ceremony took place outside at the Auberge but the nearby town of Hudson has a couple of small, quaint churches if you prefer. If you want an outdoor ceremony, plan for rain and keep in mind that a tent will run you at least $500.

Alexandra's elegant dress was bought in France and is by the Dutch designer, Imogene (http://www.imogene.nl/). Her necklace was bought in the UK as well as the groom's suit (http://www.gievesandhawkes.com/). The bride's lovely hairpiece was borrowed from a friend however you can find similarly stylish bridal/bridesmaid accesories on http://www.etsy.com/.

The bouquets and centrepieces were created by Centre Floral Hollandia (http://www.hollandiafloral.com/).

**NOTEBOOK HIGHLIGHT**- Alexandra bought mason jars to be used as vases. She brought them to the florist beforehand for a cost-effective alternative to having the florist rent vases.
To enhance the country feel of the space, the bride bought baskets from the Dollar Store and filled them with local organic produce.

This fun, floral cake was made by Decor Gateaux Montreal (http://www.decorgateauxmtl.com/).

More to come soon on Alexandra's DIY ideas!

POST-IT NOTE ONE: You got the ring! Now get ready to RUUUMMBBBLLLEEE! Ding ding.

So it's wonderful right? The faceless man you've seen in your dreams has asked you to spend the rest of your life with him. And you've probably cried, felt shaky, in some cases were so shocked that copious amounts of alcohol were consumed (No? Ok, just S1 then)....and when all of that wears off, you're left staring at the foreign object on your left hand and thinking, "so now what?". Ok, for some of you, you "never thought about getting married" or "weren't that type of girl". We say, untruth. You took a second look when you came across a bride on Facebook, you judged the bridesmaid dresses as you surveyed a dance floor...and if you say you didn't, well...your secret is safe with us.

When you first get engaged everyone tells you it's the greatest time in your life. Sure you can start planning a life with your HFH (handsome future husband) and everyone is happy for you and excited but there's other stuff that happens. It's best you heard it now so you don't start second guessing whether you've agreed to marry a monster. Ps- Mr. HFH this isn't about you, I love you.

Naturally, the first thing you do is start talking about when to have the wedding? Hmmm. Easy enough, right? Wrong. What if the bride has always imagined a soft summer day in June with peonies and hydrangeas...but the groom is an avid skier and thinks it should be a nighttime ceremony with fluffy snowflakes falling outside the candlelit window? And what if, the groom doesn't want to give in because well....he won't care about the centerpieces, but this? This he cares about. And the bride won't give in because, well, she's the bride and everyone says this day is about her. The only piece of advice we're able to offer here, is that one of you will have to compromise. Maybe he gets a winter wedding, but maybe you get the formal church ceremony. This is the first in a long line of compromises and it's going to set the tone for all the rest of the decisions you're going to make so you'll have to decide if this battle is one you aren't willing to back down for. That being said, deciding how long the engagement will be is usually an easier thing to decide since presumably the couple is on the same page about how quickly they want to be man and wife.

The second issue that comes up is money. Soooo awkward. So the bride's parents have offered to pay for the wedding but haven't told you the actual dollar amount. The groom's parents have shied away from the topic because they're hoping you're going to be one of those couples that "wants to pay for it yourself" and you and your HFH, keep saying that you'd rather buy a house. Ugh. First things first, speak to each set of parents either individually or as a couple, and ask what you have to ask. You're getting married for pete's sake, be mature! A neutral location such as a Tim Horton's is always a great option.
"Mom, Dad thank you for offering to help us with the wedding (god willing). We would like to begin the planning process and wonder if you are able at this point to give us an approximate amount you're willing to spend".
If they say they aren’t able to help, don't freak out. As it gets closer, you'll see people get swept up in the event and want to contribute anything, even if it's a pie for the dessert table. And if they can't/don't want to do anything at all, that's ok too because you know they would if they could.
If they say they don't know, assume they don't have anything and refer to above.
If they say any number at all, jump up, kiss them, hug them and tell them you are so very touched.
Your next step is to sit down and go over budgets. Figure out how much each of you can realistically save during the engagement period while still living. If you're like us, everyone you know has decided to get married at the same time, so don't forget you'll be saving for more than your own wedding. When you have this final number, you might have to re-think the wedding vision you have or the length of the engagement or more importantly, how many people you can invite.

This brings us to the final engagement "reality check". Once you decide when to get married, and how much you will have to spend...you'll need to know how many people you're spending it on. List time! S1's fav!
Well now, this is interesting. My list has 75 people on it and his has 24. Simple answer is that I have to cut down my list, but how do you cut the cousins who come to your birthday parties and graduations? Should my side be penalized for being too numerous? Probably not. The solution to this is that you will have to come up with the money to cover the uneven guests...if family outweigh debt in terms of importance than you might want to consider increasing that line of credit. If you would rather stick pins in your eyes than go into debt for a wedding, consider changing your venue, doing a brunch or cocktail reception, getting married in low season or any night but a Saturday...there are ways to make everything work. Oh, and when he tells you he’s ok with booking a place with cinder blocks and this makes you cry? Remember, this is about compromise so really listen to each other’s visions of the big day and arguments for why this may be important to that person. You can't go wrong.

Next journal entry: Community Centre Vs. Trendy Upscale Restaurant. Discuss.