Jan 11,2012 Weddings

24
A GUIDE TO GOWNS Choosing the right hue for bridesmaid gowns INVITING INGENUITY How to make your own wedding invitations FAVOURABLE FAVOURS Feed on these wedding favour ideas A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO: Victoria News • Oak Bay News • Saanich News • Goldstream News Gazette • Peninsula News Review JANUARY 2012

description

INVITING INGENUITY Choosing the right hue for bridesmaid gowns How to make your own wedding invitations Feed on these wedding favour ideas A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO: Victoria News • Oak Bay News • Saanich News • Goldstream News Gazette • Peninsula News Review JANUARY 2012

Transcript of Jan 11,2012 Weddings

Page 1: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

A GUIDE TO GOWNS Choosing the right hue for bridesmaid gowns

INVITINGINGENUITYHow to make your own wedding invitations

FAVOURABLEFAVOURSFeed on these wedding favour ideas

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO Victoria News bull Oak Bay News bull Saanich News bull Goldstream News Gazette bull Peninsula News Review

JANUARY 2012

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW2

PAGE 04 Engagement photo tipsPAGE 06 Is a wedding loan for youPAGE 07 Secrets to a long amp happy marriagePAGE 08 Do-it-yourself weddingPAGE 10 Wedding themes can add up to extra funPAGE 11 Origins of bridal customsPAGE 12 Choosing a hue for the bridesmaid gownsPAGE 13 Things to consider when a bridesmaid is pregnantPAGE 14 Unique reception touchesPAGE 14 First dance song ideasPAGE 15 Feed on these wedding favour ideasPAGE 16 Use cuisine to create a wedding to rememberPAGE 16 What not to serve at a weddingPAGE 18 Advantages to a wedding videoPAGE 20 Honeymoon how-toPAGE 21 Most popular honeymoon destinationsPAGE 22 Make-your-own wedding invitations

table of contents

04 15

08

12

In 2009 there were 13970 marriages

performed in BC by a marriage

commissioner while 8499 were per-

formed by religious representatives

did you know

GET READY FOR A

WEDDING CELEBRATION

LIKE NO OTHER

Celebrate your wedding day at the new Oak Bay Beach Hotel A legendary landmark overlooking spectacular ocean views of the Strait of Juan de

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Learn more about our wedding packages at the Victoria Bridal Fair on January 22 2012

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TOLL FREE 1 800 668 7758

WWWOAKBAYBEACHHOTELCOMPubl ished by

The next special wedding edition is being planned now Reserve your space - call Oliver Sommer Director Advertising Sales 250-381-3633 ext 236 or email osommerblackpressca

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 3

Make an appointment with our wedding specialists in the Floral Deli or Bakery Departments For a complete list of our platters and prices pick up one of our the Art of Entertaining brochures in store or visit us online at wwwthriftyfoodscom bull 1-800-667-8280

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ENGAGEMENT pHOTO TIPSNewly engaged couples choose to capture the occasion in photos that they can cherish Often one of these photos is used as an announcement to family and friends and might even be published in the newspaper

Engagement photos may be part of a package negotiated with the photographer who will be covering the wedding day Some couples enlist the help of a friend or a budding photographer to capture an engagement shot The average cost of engagement photos can range from $200 to $500

Some couples opt to use a photographer who might specialize in other areas (ie fashion models) but

may want to break into the wedding business because of how lucrative it can be Costs may be negotiated as a result

When shopping around for a photographer couples should keep certain things in mind

The first and most important is selecting a photographer you can relate to If you donrsquot feel a connection with the photographer he or she will have trouble coaxing the shots that will produce the best results

He or she should also be a professional and have some experience working with posing couples This way the photos donrsquot look stiff or contrived

Engagement photos donrsquot have to be posed portraits Experiment with looks that fit your personalities for

memorable photos

20122012

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You have the perfect dress now add the perfect jewelleryTraditional elegant and affordable pearl jewellery for the bride and bridal party

Wearing your grandmotherrsquos necklaceWe will re-string your cherished heirloom pearls

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 5

Here are some other tips that can lead to great photos

bull Find a photographer who fits your style If yoursquore a quirky couple go with a quirky photographer If yoursquore reserved and a follow-the-book type of couple then select a more traditional photographer Some photographers out there forget this is your moment and want to impart their idea of what you want Make sure he or she takes your ideas into consideration

bull Select a photographer who is open to different shoot locations and brainstorming Some of the best photos occur in natural settings where things arenrsquot entirely planned If a photographer simply works out of a studio you may want to select one who has more free reign with different locales

bull Choose your location wisely Certain locations will stand out in your minds because they are visually stunning or are special places where you have spent moments as a couple By choosing a place that offers a personal connection therersquos a good chance yoursquoll appreciate the photos in the long run Also remember that unplanned stops may offer a great background for the image Be open to the unexpected

bull Try random poses and some candid shots Although you might have a vision of the perfect photo in your mind experimenting with different ideas can sometimes lead to a great photo you really love Expect to take your share of kissing nose-touching and portrait shots But some fun poses such as running or jumping (or rolling around on a beach full of waves) can produce candid shots that are truly masterpieces Remember sometimes photographers will pose you in positions that seem a bit awkward but this is to get the best lines of the body and flattering images

bull Choose clothing that fits the mood If time and budget allows have several different wardrobe changes so that you can see which outfits work and which ones donrsquot A formal outfit comfortable street clothes something beachy or clothing that fits with your interests (such as polo or baseball) can make for interesting engagement photos Avoid clothing that is too trendy or busy which may take away from the actual images in the long run Plus you donrsquot want to look back at these photos in the future and say ldquoWhat was I thinkingrdquo Avoid matchy-matchy though If you are dressed alike you may appear to be trying too hard

Ask aboutour weddingspecials

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Make sure yourwedding starts smoothly

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L I V E W E L L W I T H

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Call to book your appointment to experience a YOUNG BLOOD Mineral Cosmetic Make-over with make-up artist Adrienne

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IS A WEDDING lOAN FOR YOU

Although a wedding loan may enable you to have the wedding of your dreams it comes with a steep cost mdash starting out your new life together with a considerable amount of debt

Engaged couples about to take a trip down the aisle are increasingly choosing to pay for the wedding themselves Where it used to be tradition for the bridersquos parents to handle the bill for the occasion today the responsibility for funding has largely fallen into the hands of the prospective bride and groom To meet the financial demands of the modern wedding some individuals turn to loans for financing some or all of the wedding You may question whether this is a good idea

As with any situation there are pros and cons The same can be said about a wedding loan The following are some factors you will need to consider before taking out a loan

One of the most important things to realize is that a wedding loan like any loan will need to be paid back and interest fees will be included What that means is that by the end of the payback period you will have spent several thousand dollars more on the loans than the original principal amount when interest is added in If yoursquore taking out a loan because yoursquove already gone above budget on wedding expenses a loan may push that budget even further into the red

That being said there are some instances where a loan may be an option that works for a couple For example couples who anticipate considerable monetary gifts from guests attending the wedding can offset the cost of the loan with those gifts Some couples might begin their professional careers after their wedding which will increase their salary enough to repay the loan quickly Others may actually have the money for the wedding but want to use a loan as a way to establish strong joint credit as a new couple

However many couples take out loans because they simply cannot afford their dream wedding In a world where many people already live beyond their means mdash

financing cars homes retail purchases mdash a wedding loan may just be another shovelful of soil on a financial grave The consensus among financial experts is that it is better to scale back the wedding or postpone it until you can save money the old-fashioned way instead of taking out a loan

But if a loan seems the only option here are some tips

Shop around on a wedding loan just as with any other loan Find the best rates and terms before settling on a lender

Decide how much you can afford to pay back within 2 to 3 years and how much the monthly payment will be Then take out the loan only in that amount

Figure out which portions of the wedding can be scaled back to make the finances work

See if options like refinancing a home or borrowing from family would be better than taking out a loan

Look at banks credit unions and even programs sponsored through your employer to compare rates on loans

Wedding loans may be secured or unsecured A home or car can serve as a form of security in a secured loan Unsecured wedding loans do not require a form of security

Personal loans like wedding loans generally have low annual percentage rates It may be worth it to take out the loan rather than using a credit card for financing because the cardrsquos rates could be double

Keep in mind that a wedding loan mdash even if it comes at a low interest rate mdash means yoursquore starting out your new life together with a large amount of debt for an event that lasts one day Think about whether the wedding of your dreams is worth using that joint checking account to pay off months of wedding debt

6 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

BEAUFORTHEIGHTSAT M O U N T WA S H I N G T O N

alpine cabins

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 7

Some might say a long celebrity marriage is one that endures the duration of the newly betrothedrsquos trip down the aisle Wersquove seen Britney Spears dissolve a marriage after 55 hours and Kim Kardashian call it quits after 72 days It seems even money canrsquot buy matrimonial happiness

But some couples have been together for 50 60 years and say theyrsquore still as much in love as they were the day they spoke their ldquoI dosrdquo What do they know that others do not

According to clinical psychologist and relationship guru Dr Phil McGraw ldquoWe all need to be flexible and to compromise in marriage but yoursquove got to be true to your core traits and characteristics what I call your authentic selfrdquo Some couples enter a relationship projecting a persona they believe the other person wants mdash one that really isnrsquot what theyrsquore all about This could be a woman trying to fill the role of her husbandrsquos nurturing mom or a guy playing the protector to his wife In reality marriage is more of a partnership and truth and trust are often at the basis of good marriages

There are many other ldquosecretsrdquo that marriage experts will offer to couples seeking the magic formula Whether yoursquore pondering marriage or have already tied the knot consider the following advice to make a marriage endure for the long haul

bull Therersquos no such thing as the perfect marriage Some couples create an image of what they think marriage is supposed to be and that image that often goes ldquopoofrdquo once reality sets in Even soulmates are bound to frustrate or irritate one another from time to time

bull Couples should express their frustrations Bottling up frustrations can eat at a person and eventually destroy a marriage Talking about the things that are bothering you with your partner opens up a discussion and can help you work through things

bull Divorce should not be seen as a viable option Couples who want to bail on the marriage at every turn could be directing their energy toward divorce as the only solution instead of discovering ways to remove the cause of strife Divorce can sometimes be the easy way out when you think about the work that goes into keeping a marriage working Experts say that there are a few issues like adultery abuse and drugalcohol addiction that may be reasonable catalysts for divorce if personal safety and sanity is being compromised

bull Make time for romance Itrsquos easily said but not so easily done Too often married couples forget what it was like to date when all of their attention was spent on each other instead of the house kids work etc Today there seems to be even more distractions from e-mails to texts to pressure and obligations at the office Happy couples find the time to spend quality time with their spouses mdash even if thatrsquos only 10 minutes of alone time a day

bull Put ldquowerdquo first Many people operate on a ldquomerdquo mentality When yoursquore part of a couple give more to your spouse than you take If he or she is doing the same yoursquore working collectively for the benefit of the marriage instead of yourselves

bull Respect each other Often couples having troubles realize they treat strangers better than they treat each other Would you use the insults or unflattering terms that you sometimes throw at your spouse with a complete stranger Probably not Good marriages are based on a foundation of respect and love Itrsquos easy to lose feelings of love if the respect is gone

Couples can realize that there are some thorns that come with the roses of marriage and staying happy together does take work for it to all be worth it

SecretsTO A lONG amp hAPPy MARRIAGE

WEDDING Those thinking about tying the knot in the months to come may be discouraged by how expensive weddings can be But with a little ingenuity and a hands-on approach couples can have a wedding that is inexpensive and memorable at the same time

Weddingbells magazine states that the average cost for a wedding in Canada is $23330 up from $20129 in 2010

According to CostofWeddingcom on average US couples spend $26542 for their weddings

These amounts do not include the cost of an engagement ring or wedding bands With such a high pricetag some couples may wonder if they can afford their dream wedding or if there are ways to cut costs Having a backyard DIY wedding can be the answer

Although some may envision a backyard wedding with picnic benches and Dad at the grill it can be a much classier affair than that Smart couples are realizing that the money they would normally spend on a big wedding at an outside venue can be put to better use either through buying a new home or fixing up one they may already own

do-it-yourselfgetting startedA DIY wedding is one that will take much more work than simply hiring vendors and leaving the details to them But the money saved with sweat equity can be substantial A well-planned wedding is the best start Grab a notebook and start making lists of all the things you will need

bull locationbull tables and chairsbull linensbull foodbull silverware and glasswarebull invitationsbull photographybull musicbull officiantbull musicbull centerpieces and other deacutecorbull cake or dessertbull lightingbull attire bull flowers

8 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

ldquoThe best time to do your hair trial is when you try your dress on when it arrives You

can see the whole beautiful picture in the mirror as you

choose your hair accessories veil and jewellery and imag-

ine how amazing you will look on your wedding dayrdquo

ndash The Bridersquos Closet

2243 Beacon Ave Sidney BC 250-656-0275 wwwmarywinspearca

Planning a wedding reception dinner dance concert or other special event Need to accomodate up to 800 guests You can really throw a party in our fully accessible 8100 square foot space at Bodine Family Hall

bull Across the street from Mary Winspear Centre for convenient accommodation of your Wedding Guests and Familybull Pet Friendlybull Air Conditionedbull Fridge amp Microwavebull Free High Speed Internetbull All King or Queen Pillow Top Bedsbull Whirlpool sauna fi tness equipmentbull Group Rates and Family Suites Available

Closest Best Westernto Victoria International

Airport amp BC Ferries

Each Best Westernreg Branded Hotel is independently Owned and Operated Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International Inc copy2012 Best Western International Inc All rights reserved

Best Western PLUSEmerald Isle Motor Inn

2306 Beacon Ave Sidney BC2506564441 bull 18003153377

bwemeraldislecom

Sidney-by-the-Sea

Great Food AnytimeWhether itrsquos a light

meal at middayan afternoon snack or

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in Sidney since 1985

250-656-24232306 Beacon Ave in Sidney(Next to the Best Western PLUS

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Sid b th S

bull 18rsquo vaulted ceiling bull Beautiful Ambiencebull Polished flooring bull Raised performance stagebull 12x12 drop screen and state of the art sound amp lighting systemsbull Natural light amp fresh sea air from large roll up doors that open to an adjoining 5000 foot outdoor patio complete with tentsbull FREE onsite parking and ideally located a short walk to nearby accomodations and area attractions

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 9

Many items necessary for a wedding can be bought in advance Some couples find that purchasing low-cost items at discount stores turns out to be less expensive than renting For example inexpensive glasses and silverware can be bought at dollar stores or chains like Ikea Later on these items can be kept sold or even donated to shelters

Tablecloths donrsquot have to be traditional It may be less expensive to purchase pieces of fabric from a fabric store and dress them up yourself Candles can be stockpiled relatively easy and provide a very affordable means of ambient light Plan out centerpiece ideas and figure out which components can be bought and stored Then items can be assembled at leisure Wedding stationery is one thing that will have to be bought well in advance so there will be time enough to

print save-the-date invitations and response cards as well as mail them

An informal wedding may mean couples can get simple attire Buying off the rack may mean a smaller pricetag for gowns Gentleman may be fine with sportcoats and slacks Purchase wardrobe essentials several months in advance to be sure there will be time for alterations if necessary

Enlist the help of family and friends to get many of the tasks completed Upon asking many couples find members of the family who have skills in certain areas which can be tapped for the wedding such as a gourmet chef a disc jockey a photographer or even someone who can officiate the vows Having these people on board means a great reduction in costs

work in advanceBecause couples will be doing the work themselves itrsquos best to start several days in advance of the wedding (weather permitting) Be sure the grounds are well groomed and landscaped Ensure there are no tripping hazards and that there is a sturdy surface for placing tables or creating a dance floor

It may pay to ask an electrician or someone who dabbles in electric work to help string some lights to better illuminate the area especially for when the sun goes down

Set up the tables and chairs to finalize placement the day before Figure out where the ceremony will take place A small arbor can mark the area and make a nice photo backdrop Dress the tables with linens and settings the morning of the wedding

One splurge couples may want to make is hiring a waitstaff to help set up food service areas serve as bartenders and clear away dishes and other messes This way the bride and groom can mingle with guests

readying the venueHere are some other ways to save money on DIY weddings

bull Fruit is less expensive than flowers for centerpieces

bull Include postcard response cards in wedding invites The postage is less and you donrsquot have to spend money on an extra envelope

bull Be sure to check with your town if you need a permit or variance for having so many cars parked by the house in the event of a backyard wedding Otherwise you could be facing a fine

bull Many different foods can be cooked in

advance and frozen instead of hiring a catering service

bull Consider favours that also double as table centerpieces

bull Bouquets can easily be made with store-bought flowers some floral tape and decorative ribbon

bull Restrict the bar to wine and beer and yoursquoll save money on expensive liquors

A DIY wedding can be a fun memorable event that costs a couple a fraction of what it would be to have it held at an expensive location

other tips amp tricks

You Deserve the Best279 Selby Street Nanaimo 250-753-4975

wwwthebridesclosetcom

hellipand create moments to treasure by placing the utmost emphasis ongenuine hospitality Our experienced catering staff will coordinate your special day with caring personalized service We offer packages that cover everything

from a cocktail hour to a formal buffet Ask about our exclusive banquet facilitiesJust tell us your vision and wersquoll combine all the ingredients to bring it to life

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Innovations Cateringwwwinnovationscateringcom

Every couple wants their wedding to be memorable The goal of planning a wedding is to create an experience that everyone will remember for years to come For some couples a theme wedding is the best way to accomplish just that

When it comes time to select a theme the day the wedding takes place may dictate the theme For example if the wedding

takes place on Halloween the ideas for the theme are easy Many other couples choose a theme that highlights a specific interest or hobby or something that is dear to them Here are some popular wedding themes

bull Holiday The Christmas season lends itself well to wedding planning The colours (red green gold) are already established and most churches and buildings are already decked out in holiday finery cutting down on the amount of flowers and embellishments couples need Because the holiday season is so busy and a popular time for socializing couples who want to tie the knot during this time of year should send save-the-date cards well in advance Another option is to have a ldquoChristmas in Julyrdquo wedding featuring the same holiday themes but without the hectic nature of the holiday season

bull Vegas Couples who want to tie the knot in Las Vegas but want to ensure all their loved ones can attend can recreate the magic of Vegas wherever they may be Casino-inspired games and big buffet meals can make guests feel like they have stepped into a casino on the famed Vegas strip In addition an Elvis impersonator is essential to a Vegas wedding

bull TV show Some couples elevate certain television shows to cult status Whether

itrsquos ldquoFriendsrdquo or ldquoStar Trekrdquo popular television shows have been transformed into festive wedding themes Whether the idea is to go daring and exchange vows in costume or simply name reception tables according to characters or show locations couples can include a little television fun into the event

bull Fairytale Many men and women envision a fairytale wedding complete with horse-drawn carriage and the ldquohappily ever afterrdquo This is what makes Disney properties as well as the various castles around the world popular backdrops for wedding events Those planning a fairytale wedding need only look to favourite stories or movies for their inspiration

bull Interest or passion Love to climb mountains Avid about scuba diving Couples who share a particular interest can include elements of this sport or hobby into their wedding Invitations and deacutecor can hint at the theme and then special activities can further enhance it Fish bowls as centerpieces may call to mind underwater adventures while surfboard-shaped invites may set the scene for a beachside party

Theme weddings can add an extra spice to the festivities and incorporate couplesrsquo interests into the event mdash making it even more special

CAN ADD Up TO ExTRA FUN

WEDDING

A masquerade theme might be an entertaining theme for a couplersquos nuptials

themes10 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

I dowant to look amp

feel my radiant best on this day of days

Rejuvenating spa treatments and group celebrations

help you unwind and prepare for your

special day

2503913920 santespavictoriacom

1999 Country Club WayVictoria BC

We offer couples one hour in the Castle for a ceremony and photo session Say your

vows in front of one of the fabulous fireplaces then have photographs

taken throughout the Castle

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

Renew your vows or elope

Photo by Kuniophotography

Wedding Receptions and Ceremonies

Banquet Room and Outdoor Deck Overlook Golf Course

Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club1050 McTavish Road Sidney2506563136 wwwglenmeadowsbcca

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 11

Chances are those who have attended a wedding have witnessed some popular traditions The bride wears a veil a court of wedding attendants accompanies the bride and groom and birdseed rice or flower petals are tossed But have you ever wondered why Wedding customs are ripe with tradition and harken back to days when superstition and myth often ruled the day

Throwing rice Today it has become de rigueur to blow bubbles toss birdseed or release doves when the bride and groom leave the house of worship newly betrothed Thatrsquos because savvy individuals found that raw rice can pose a hazard to birds pecking in the area However rice throwing is an old custom that dates back to the Middle Ages when wheat or rice where thrown to symbolize fertility for the couple

Bridesmaids There may be arguments over dresses and how many bridesmaids to have in a wedding party now but in ancient times it was ldquothe more the merrierrdquo Thatrsquos because bridesmaids were another measure to keep the bride safe against evil spirits Essentially the bridesmaids were decoys for the spirits mdash dressing like the bride to confuse the spirits or maybe help deter them to leave the bride be

Wedding rings Wearing of wedding rings dates back to ancient Egypt The round shape of a ring symbolizes eternal love The ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it is believed this finger has a blood vessel that goes directly to the heart

Wedding cake The traditional wedding cake evolved from Roman times when the cake was originally made from wheat It was broken over the bridersquos head to ensure fertility All of the guests eat a piece for good luck Single women used to place a piece of wedding cake under their pillows in the hopes of finding their own husbands

Father accompanying the bride This tradition symbolizes that the bridersquos father endorses the choice in husbands and is presenting his daughter as a pure bride to that man

Kissing the bride In older times a kiss symbolized a legal bond Therefore the bride and groom kissed to seal the deal on their betrothal

Origins of bridal customs

There are many traditions surrounding a wedding that people simply accept but understanding their origins can make the ceremony more meaningful

Bouquet Nowadays the bride carries a beautiful bouquet of flowers But the purpose of the bouquet held different meanings in the past Saracen brides carried orange blossoms for fertility Others carried a combination of herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits with their aroma Bouquets of dill were often carried again for fertility reasons and after the ceremony the dill was eaten to encourage lust

We Do RedesignsNew JewelleryFull Service Repair

Locally Owned amp Operated Since 1948

1126 Blanshard Street Victoria bull 2504181126 bull wwwvanislejewellersca

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding Choosing a gown and a colour that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year thatrsquos a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years and many people have their own stories of garish gowns theyrsquove been asked to don for a wedding Some have said that brides intentionally choose

ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure theyrsquore not outshined come the wedding day Although this may be the case for some most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all And colour scheme is integral in the choice of gown

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features Therefore some experimentation might be necessary to find a colour that is flattering to all and fits with the colour scheme

Depending on hair colour and skin shade there are many flattering hues available for gowns When making this decision consider bridesmaidsrsquo ethnicity and skin tone

Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-coloured gowns including silver gold purple and salmon Very pale

colours may be daring and conspicuous

Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colours including red navy peach and fuchsia However avoid colours in light yellow aqua gray taupe or mint which may make the bridesmaid look washed out

Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly coloured gowns in jewel tones Pastels may work but be careful about those depending on hair colour Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair Yellow and green may not work with a fair brunette Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde

Once a colour is chosen brides also need to consider the season Certain colours may look out of place depending on the season For example an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding Similarly russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring

wedding Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues greens pinks and purples for their weddings simply because those colours transcend the seasons

After colours are worked out the style of the gown deserves consideration Because not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes many brides are now open to selecting a colour and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style This way someone who is busty wonrsquot feel uncomfortable in strapless and someone who is thin wonrsquot be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable and different styles can help achieve this

Making the effort to choose a gown colour and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding

CHOOSING A hUE FOR THEbridesmaid gowns

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features

12 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Exterior Romanesque architecture with interior wood paneling and stunning

stained glass provides a rich welcoming place to capture special moments

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

A unique venue for photographers

Photo by Kuniophotography

La MamaMATERNITY amp MORE

Because Yoursquore Expecting

25038839771010 Broad Street Victoria

p g

toria

Style

wwwlamamamaternitycomns s AA ee iinin iiieeAvailalablbleeaSaSaSatttiinn n GGoGoGoG wwnnnssattt ww bSSS iiniiilaaaaiinaaat Avoo boo leAt v ll llt GGGG AAAvnss nnSaSaatttiinn n eeailalablleeaww iinin iiSSS Avoooo vai ett Availl bllAvai b e iiiiiitt MM CoCololoourursuuooullllCCMultitiplple e CCeelleelMultit p CCngg o oorrLoLLoL n r ShShShhororrrrtt pngg MMM rshhh lttrtt uuuMuSSS ip oooooooooo o oooooo ppgg eeh tt ll lllllhh t tMMMultitiplple eeellipnggn urursuhhhororrtt loloooolrrr LoLLo CoCoCCSSSoo o rsooooooo t eeet lt llllllllhh itt

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

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RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

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Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

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In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

Knickerbockerrsquos Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria BC250-658-5578

wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 2: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW2

PAGE 04 Engagement photo tipsPAGE 06 Is a wedding loan for youPAGE 07 Secrets to a long amp happy marriagePAGE 08 Do-it-yourself weddingPAGE 10 Wedding themes can add up to extra funPAGE 11 Origins of bridal customsPAGE 12 Choosing a hue for the bridesmaid gownsPAGE 13 Things to consider when a bridesmaid is pregnantPAGE 14 Unique reception touchesPAGE 14 First dance song ideasPAGE 15 Feed on these wedding favour ideasPAGE 16 Use cuisine to create a wedding to rememberPAGE 16 What not to serve at a weddingPAGE 18 Advantages to a wedding videoPAGE 20 Honeymoon how-toPAGE 21 Most popular honeymoon destinationsPAGE 22 Make-your-own wedding invitations

table of contents

04 15

08

12

In 2009 there were 13970 marriages

performed in BC by a marriage

commissioner while 8499 were per-

formed by religious representatives

did you know

GET READY FOR A

WEDDING CELEBRATION

LIKE NO OTHER

Celebrate your wedding day at the new Oak Bay Beach Hotel A legendary landmark overlooking spectacular ocean views of the Strait of Juan de

Fuca and snow-capped Mount Baker

Learn more about our wedding packages at the Victoria Bridal Fair on January 22 2012

OAK BAY BEACH HOTEL

1175 BEACH DRIVE VICTORIA BC V8S 2N2

TOLL FREE 1 800 668 7758

WWWOAKBAYBEACHHOTELCOMPubl ished by

The next special wedding edition is being planned now Reserve your space - call Oliver Sommer Director Advertising Sales 250-381-3633 ext 236 or email osommerblackpressca

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 3

Make an appointment with our wedding specialists in the Floral Deli or Bakery Departments For a complete list of our platters and prices pick up one of our the Art of Entertaining brochures in store or visit us online at wwwthriftyfoodscom bull 1-800-667-8280

artweddingsofThe

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW4

ENGAGEMENT pHOTO TIPSNewly engaged couples choose to capture the occasion in photos that they can cherish Often one of these photos is used as an announcement to family and friends and might even be published in the newspaper

Engagement photos may be part of a package negotiated with the photographer who will be covering the wedding day Some couples enlist the help of a friend or a budding photographer to capture an engagement shot The average cost of engagement photos can range from $200 to $500

Some couples opt to use a photographer who might specialize in other areas (ie fashion models) but

may want to break into the wedding business because of how lucrative it can be Costs may be negotiated as a result

When shopping around for a photographer couples should keep certain things in mind

The first and most important is selecting a photographer you can relate to If you donrsquot feel a connection with the photographer he or she will have trouble coaxing the shots that will produce the best results

He or she should also be a professional and have some experience working with posing couples This way the photos donrsquot look stiff or contrived

Engagement photos donrsquot have to be posed portraits Experiment with looks that fit your personalities for

memorable photos

20122012

Dream Wedding Experience(Victoria Bridal Exhibition Only)

Prestige Oceanfront Resort

ADDITIONAL PRIZE

MAGAZINE WEBSITE COMMUNITY| |

An All-Inclusive Honeymoon to

the Mayan Riviera (Cancun) or

1 of 2 Trips to Las Vegas

Bridersquos Make Sureyou Pick-up Your

Bridal Rewards Card

wwwBridalExhibitioncawwwBridalExhibitionca

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 19thNANAIMO

SUNDAY JANUARY 15thVICTORIA

Pearks Recreation Centre10am-4pm

Tickets $1000 in Advance$1500 at the Door

SUNDAY JANUARY 22ndCOURTENAYFilberg Centre11am-3pm

Tickets $1000 in Advance$1000 at the Door

FREE BRIDAL PLANNERFASHION SHOWSEXHIBITORS

FOR INFORMATION TICKETSOR BOOTH SPACE

Beban Park11am-4pm

Tickets $1000 in Advance$1300 at the Door

Available At All

Locations and Online at

wwwbridalexhibitionca

Victoria (250) 984-1555Nanaimo (250) 244-8449Toll Free 1-888-501-9696bridalexhibitioniegincca

Draw to Las Vegas will be at the end of each Vancouver IslandBridal Exhibition January 15th Victoria January 22nd CourtenayFebruary 19th Nanaimo with the Grand Prize Mayan Riviera Tripto be drawn from the Winners of the Las Vegas Trips on February 19thCertain Restrictions apply please see Grand Prize Passport for details

You have the perfect dress now add the perfect jewelleryTraditional elegant and affordable pearl jewellery for the bride and bridal party

Wearing your grandmotherrsquos necklaceWe will re-string your cherished heirloom pearls

wwwserenitypearlsca | cherylserenitypearlsca | 2503822261 | Victoria BC

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 5

Here are some other tips that can lead to great photos

bull Find a photographer who fits your style If yoursquore a quirky couple go with a quirky photographer If yoursquore reserved and a follow-the-book type of couple then select a more traditional photographer Some photographers out there forget this is your moment and want to impart their idea of what you want Make sure he or she takes your ideas into consideration

bull Select a photographer who is open to different shoot locations and brainstorming Some of the best photos occur in natural settings where things arenrsquot entirely planned If a photographer simply works out of a studio you may want to select one who has more free reign with different locales

bull Choose your location wisely Certain locations will stand out in your minds because they are visually stunning or are special places where you have spent moments as a couple By choosing a place that offers a personal connection therersquos a good chance yoursquoll appreciate the photos in the long run Also remember that unplanned stops may offer a great background for the image Be open to the unexpected

bull Try random poses and some candid shots Although you might have a vision of the perfect photo in your mind experimenting with different ideas can sometimes lead to a great photo you really love Expect to take your share of kissing nose-touching and portrait shots But some fun poses such as running or jumping (or rolling around on a beach full of waves) can produce candid shots that are truly masterpieces Remember sometimes photographers will pose you in positions that seem a bit awkward but this is to get the best lines of the body and flattering images

bull Choose clothing that fits the mood If time and budget allows have several different wardrobe changes so that you can see which outfits work and which ones donrsquot A formal outfit comfortable street clothes something beachy or clothing that fits with your interests (such as polo or baseball) can make for interesting engagement photos Avoid clothing that is too trendy or busy which may take away from the actual images in the long run Plus you donrsquot want to look back at these photos in the future and say ldquoWhat was I thinkingrdquo Avoid matchy-matchy though If you are dressed alike you may appear to be trying too hard

Ask aboutour weddingspecials

1195 Fort Street Victoria | wwwacademysecretcomWe would also like to introduce our newest team member Dr Marie-Louise Wessels MBChB CCFB MD

Call Academy Spa at (250) 385-6552and ask about our wedding specials

Botox bull Dermal Fillers bull SmartSkin Laser bull Teeth Whitening

Make sure yourwedding starts smoothly

PHARMASAVEreg

L I V E W E L L W I T H

BROADMEAD VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE310-777 Royal Oak Drive bull 250-727-3505

wwwpharmasavebroadmeadcom

Call to book your appointment to experience a YOUNG BLOOD Mineral Cosmetic Make-over with make-up artist Adrienne

A Glamorous LookFor Your Wedding

Serving Your Community for 20 Years

IS A WEDDING lOAN FOR YOU

Although a wedding loan may enable you to have the wedding of your dreams it comes with a steep cost mdash starting out your new life together with a considerable amount of debt

Engaged couples about to take a trip down the aisle are increasingly choosing to pay for the wedding themselves Where it used to be tradition for the bridersquos parents to handle the bill for the occasion today the responsibility for funding has largely fallen into the hands of the prospective bride and groom To meet the financial demands of the modern wedding some individuals turn to loans for financing some or all of the wedding You may question whether this is a good idea

As with any situation there are pros and cons The same can be said about a wedding loan The following are some factors you will need to consider before taking out a loan

One of the most important things to realize is that a wedding loan like any loan will need to be paid back and interest fees will be included What that means is that by the end of the payback period you will have spent several thousand dollars more on the loans than the original principal amount when interest is added in If yoursquore taking out a loan because yoursquove already gone above budget on wedding expenses a loan may push that budget even further into the red

That being said there are some instances where a loan may be an option that works for a couple For example couples who anticipate considerable monetary gifts from guests attending the wedding can offset the cost of the loan with those gifts Some couples might begin their professional careers after their wedding which will increase their salary enough to repay the loan quickly Others may actually have the money for the wedding but want to use a loan as a way to establish strong joint credit as a new couple

However many couples take out loans because they simply cannot afford their dream wedding In a world where many people already live beyond their means mdash

financing cars homes retail purchases mdash a wedding loan may just be another shovelful of soil on a financial grave The consensus among financial experts is that it is better to scale back the wedding or postpone it until you can save money the old-fashioned way instead of taking out a loan

But if a loan seems the only option here are some tips

Shop around on a wedding loan just as with any other loan Find the best rates and terms before settling on a lender

Decide how much you can afford to pay back within 2 to 3 years and how much the monthly payment will be Then take out the loan only in that amount

Figure out which portions of the wedding can be scaled back to make the finances work

See if options like refinancing a home or borrowing from family would be better than taking out a loan

Look at banks credit unions and even programs sponsored through your employer to compare rates on loans

Wedding loans may be secured or unsecured A home or car can serve as a form of security in a secured loan Unsecured wedding loans do not require a form of security

Personal loans like wedding loans generally have low annual percentage rates It may be worth it to take out the loan rather than using a credit card for financing because the cardrsquos rates could be double

Keep in mind that a wedding loan mdash even if it comes at a low interest rate mdash means yoursquore starting out your new life together with a large amount of debt for an event that lasts one day Think about whether the wedding of your dreams is worth using that joint checking account to pay off months of wedding debt

6 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

BEAUFORTHEIGHTSAT M O U N T WA S H I N G T O N

alpine cabins

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 7

Some might say a long celebrity marriage is one that endures the duration of the newly betrothedrsquos trip down the aisle Wersquove seen Britney Spears dissolve a marriage after 55 hours and Kim Kardashian call it quits after 72 days It seems even money canrsquot buy matrimonial happiness

But some couples have been together for 50 60 years and say theyrsquore still as much in love as they were the day they spoke their ldquoI dosrdquo What do they know that others do not

According to clinical psychologist and relationship guru Dr Phil McGraw ldquoWe all need to be flexible and to compromise in marriage but yoursquove got to be true to your core traits and characteristics what I call your authentic selfrdquo Some couples enter a relationship projecting a persona they believe the other person wants mdash one that really isnrsquot what theyrsquore all about This could be a woman trying to fill the role of her husbandrsquos nurturing mom or a guy playing the protector to his wife In reality marriage is more of a partnership and truth and trust are often at the basis of good marriages

There are many other ldquosecretsrdquo that marriage experts will offer to couples seeking the magic formula Whether yoursquore pondering marriage or have already tied the knot consider the following advice to make a marriage endure for the long haul

bull Therersquos no such thing as the perfect marriage Some couples create an image of what they think marriage is supposed to be and that image that often goes ldquopoofrdquo once reality sets in Even soulmates are bound to frustrate or irritate one another from time to time

bull Couples should express their frustrations Bottling up frustrations can eat at a person and eventually destroy a marriage Talking about the things that are bothering you with your partner opens up a discussion and can help you work through things

bull Divorce should not be seen as a viable option Couples who want to bail on the marriage at every turn could be directing their energy toward divorce as the only solution instead of discovering ways to remove the cause of strife Divorce can sometimes be the easy way out when you think about the work that goes into keeping a marriage working Experts say that there are a few issues like adultery abuse and drugalcohol addiction that may be reasonable catalysts for divorce if personal safety and sanity is being compromised

bull Make time for romance Itrsquos easily said but not so easily done Too often married couples forget what it was like to date when all of their attention was spent on each other instead of the house kids work etc Today there seems to be even more distractions from e-mails to texts to pressure and obligations at the office Happy couples find the time to spend quality time with their spouses mdash even if thatrsquos only 10 minutes of alone time a day

bull Put ldquowerdquo first Many people operate on a ldquomerdquo mentality When yoursquore part of a couple give more to your spouse than you take If he or she is doing the same yoursquore working collectively for the benefit of the marriage instead of yourselves

bull Respect each other Often couples having troubles realize they treat strangers better than they treat each other Would you use the insults or unflattering terms that you sometimes throw at your spouse with a complete stranger Probably not Good marriages are based on a foundation of respect and love Itrsquos easy to lose feelings of love if the respect is gone

Couples can realize that there are some thorns that come with the roses of marriage and staying happy together does take work for it to all be worth it

SecretsTO A lONG amp hAPPy MARRIAGE

WEDDING Those thinking about tying the knot in the months to come may be discouraged by how expensive weddings can be But with a little ingenuity and a hands-on approach couples can have a wedding that is inexpensive and memorable at the same time

Weddingbells magazine states that the average cost for a wedding in Canada is $23330 up from $20129 in 2010

According to CostofWeddingcom on average US couples spend $26542 for their weddings

These amounts do not include the cost of an engagement ring or wedding bands With such a high pricetag some couples may wonder if they can afford their dream wedding or if there are ways to cut costs Having a backyard DIY wedding can be the answer

Although some may envision a backyard wedding with picnic benches and Dad at the grill it can be a much classier affair than that Smart couples are realizing that the money they would normally spend on a big wedding at an outside venue can be put to better use either through buying a new home or fixing up one they may already own

do-it-yourselfgetting startedA DIY wedding is one that will take much more work than simply hiring vendors and leaving the details to them But the money saved with sweat equity can be substantial A well-planned wedding is the best start Grab a notebook and start making lists of all the things you will need

bull locationbull tables and chairsbull linensbull foodbull silverware and glasswarebull invitationsbull photographybull musicbull officiantbull musicbull centerpieces and other deacutecorbull cake or dessertbull lightingbull attire bull flowers

8 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

ldquoThe best time to do your hair trial is when you try your dress on when it arrives You

can see the whole beautiful picture in the mirror as you

choose your hair accessories veil and jewellery and imag-

ine how amazing you will look on your wedding dayrdquo

ndash The Bridersquos Closet

2243 Beacon Ave Sidney BC 250-656-0275 wwwmarywinspearca

Planning a wedding reception dinner dance concert or other special event Need to accomodate up to 800 guests You can really throw a party in our fully accessible 8100 square foot space at Bodine Family Hall

bull Across the street from Mary Winspear Centre for convenient accommodation of your Wedding Guests and Familybull Pet Friendlybull Air Conditionedbull Fridge amp Microwavebull Free High Speed Internetbull All King or Queen Pillow Top Bedsbull Whirlpool sauna fi tness equipmentbull Group Rates and Family Suites Available

Closest Best Westernto Victoria International

Airport amp BC Ferries

Each Best Westernreg Branded Hotel is independently Owned and Operated Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International Inc copy2012 Best Western International Inc All rights reserved

Best Western PLUSEmerald Isle Motor Inn

2306 Beacon Ave Sidney BC2506564441 bull 18003153377

bwemeraldislecom

Sidney-by-the-Sea

Great Food AnytimeWhether itrsquos a light

meal at middayan afternoon snack or

a hearty dinnerSmittyrsquos satisfi es

every timeServing great food in Canada since 1960

in Sidney since 1985

250-656-24232306 Beacon Ave in Sidney(Next to the Best Western PLUS

Emerald Isle)

Sid b th S

bull 18rsquo vaulted ceiling bull Beautiful Ambiencebull Polished flooring bull Raised performance stagebull 12x12 drop screen and state of the art sound amp lighting systemsbull Natural light amp fresh sea air from large roll up doors that open to an adjoining 5000 foot outdoor patio complete with tentsbull FREE onsite parking and ideally located a short walk to nearby accomodations and area attractions

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 9

Many items necessary for a wedding can be bought in advance Some couples find that purchasing low-cost items at discount stores turns out to be less expensive than renting For example inexpensive glasses and silverware can be bought at dollar stores or chains like Ikea Later on these items can be kept sold or even donated to shelters

Tablecloths donrsquot have to be traditional It may be less expensive to purchase pieces of fabric from a fabric store and dress them up yourself Candles can be stockpiled relatively easy and provide a very affordable means of ambient light Plan out centerpiece ideas and figure out which components can be bought and stored Then items can be assembled at leisure Wedding stationery is one thing that will have to be bought well in advance so there will be time enough to

print save-the-date invitations and response cards as well as mail them

An informal wedding may mean couples can get simple attire Buying off the rack may mean a smaller pricetag for gowns Gentleman may be fine with sportcoats and slacks Purchase wardrobe essentials several months in advance to be sure there will be time for alterations if necessary

Enlist the help of family and friends to get many of the tasks completed Upon asking many couples find members of the family who have skills in certain areas which can be tapped for the wedding such as a gourmet chef a disc jockey a photographer or even someone who can officiate the vows Having these people on board means a great reduction in costs

work in advanceBecause couples will be doing the work themselves itrsquos best to start several days in advance of the wedding (weather permitting) Be sure the grounds are well groomed and landscaped Ensure there are no tripping hazards and that there is a sturdy surface for placing tables or creating a dance floor

It may pay to ask an electrician or someone who dabbles in electric work to help string some lights to better illuminate the area especially for when the sun goes down

Set up the tables and chairs to finalize placement the day before Figure out where the ceremony will take place A small arbor can mark the area and make a nice photo backdrop Dress the tables with linens and settings the morning of the wedding

One splurge couples may want to make is hiring a waitstaff to help set up food service areas serve as bartenders and clear away dishes and other messes This way the bride and groom can mingle with guests

readying the venueHere are some other ways to save money on DIY weddings

bull Fruit is less expensive than flowers for centerpieces

bull Include postcard response cards in wedding invites The postage is less and you donrsquot have to spend money on an extra envelope

bull Be sure to check with your town if you need a permit or variance for having so many cars parked by the house in the event of a backyard wedding Otherwise you could be facing a fine

bull Many different foods can be cooked in

advance and frozen instead of hiring a catering service

bull Consider favours that also double as table centerpieces

bull Bouquets can easily be made with store-bought flowers some floral tape and decorative ribbon

bull Restrict the bar to wine and beer and yoursquoll save money on expensive liquors

A DIY wedding can be a fun memorable event that costs a couple a fraction of what it would be to have it held at an expensive location

other tips amp tricks

You Deserve the Best279 Selby Street Nanaimo 250-753-4975

wwwthebridesclosetcom

hellipand create moments to treasure by placing the utmost emphasis ongenuine hospitality Our experienced catering staff will coordinate your special day with caring personalized service We offer packages that cover everything

from a cocktail hour to a formal buffet Ask about our exclusive banquet facilitiesJust tell us your vision and wersquoll combine all the ingredients to bring it to life

Intimate gatherings of 50 to Gala events of 300

We invite you to book a complimentary consultation Just call 2508183226

Innovations Cateringwwwinnovationscateringcom

Every couple wants their wedding to be memorable The goal of planning a wedding is to create an experience that everyone will remember for years to come For some couples a theme wedding is the best way to accomplish just that

When it comes time to select a theme the day the wedding takes place may dictate the theme For example if the wedding

takes place on Halloween the ideas for the theme are easy Many other couples choose a theme that highlights a specific interest or hobby or something that is dear to them Here are some popular wedding themes

bull Holiday The Christmas season lends itself well to wedding planning The colours (red green gold) are already established and most churches and buildings are already decked out in holiday finery cutting down on the amount of flowers and embellishments couples need Because the holiday season is so busy and a popular time for socializing couples who want to tie the knot during this time of year should send save-the-date cards well in advance Another option is to have a ldquoChristmas in Julyrdquo wedding featuring the same holiday themes but without the hectic nature of the holiday season

bull Vegas Couples who want to tie the knot in Las Vegas but want to ensure all their loved ones can attend can recreate the magic of Vegas wherever they may be Casino-inspired games and big buffet meals can make guests feel like they have stepped into a casino on the famed Vegas strip In addition an Elvis impersonator is essential to a Vegas wedding

bull TV show Some couples elevate certain television shows to cult status Whether

itrsquos ldquoFriendsrdquo or ldquoStar Trekrdquo popular television shows have been transformed into festive wedding themes Whether the idea is to go daring and exchange vows in costume or simply name reception tables according to characters or show locations couples can include a little television fun into the event

bull Fairytale Many men and women envision a fairytale wedding complete with horse-drawn carriage and the ldquohappily ever afterrdquo This is what makes Disney properties as well as the various castles around the world popular backdrops for wedding events Those planning a fairytale wedding need only look to favourite stories or movies for their inspiration

bull Interest or passion Love to climb mountains Avid about scuba diving Couples who share a particular interest can include elements of this sport or hobby into their wedding Invitations and deacutecor can hint at the theme and then special activities can further enhance it Fish bowls as centerpieces may call to mind underwater adventures while surfboard-shaped invites may set the scene for a beachside party

Theme weddings can add an extra spice to the festivities and incorporate couplesrsquo interests into the event mdash making it even more special

CAN ADD Up TO ExTRA FUN

WEDDING

A masquerade theme might be an entertaining theme for a couplersquos nuptials

themes10 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

I dowant to look amp

feel my radiant best on this day of days

Rejuvenating spa treatments and group celebrations

help you unwind and prepare for your

special day

2503913920 santespavictoriacom

1999 Country Club WayVictoria BC

We offer couples one hour in the Castle for a ceremony and photo session Say your

vows in front of one of the fabulous fireplaces then have photographs

taken throughout the Castle

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

Renew your vows or elope

Photo by Kuniophotography

Wedding Receptions and Ceremonies

Banquet Room and Outdoor Deck Overlook Golf Course

Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club1050 McTavish Road Sidney2506563136 wwwglenmeadowsbcca

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 11

Chances are those who have attended a wedding have witnessed some popular traditions The bride wears a veil a court of wedding attendants accompanies the bride and groom and birdseed rice or flower petals are tossed But have you ever wondered why Wedding customs are ripe with tradition and harken back to days when superstition and myth often ruled the day

Throwing rice Today it has become de rigueur to blow bubbles toss birdseed or release doves when the bride and groom leave the house of worship newly betrothed Thatrsquos because savvy individuals found that raw rice can pose a hazard to birds pecking in the area However rice throwing is an old custom that dates back to the Middle Ages when wheat or rice where thrown to symbolize fertility for the couple

Bridesmaids There may be arguments over dresses and how many bridesmaids to have in a wedding party now but in ancient times it was ldquothe more the merrierrdquo Thatrsquos because bridesmaids were another measure to keep the bride safe against evil spirits Essentially the bridesmaids were decoys for the spirits mdash dressing like the bride to confuse the spirits or maybe help deter them to leave the bride be

Wedding rings Wearing of wedding rings dates back to ancient Egypt The round shape of a ring symbolizes eternal love The ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it is believed this finger has a blood vessel that goes directly to the heart

Wedding cake The traditional wedding cake evolved from Roman times when the cake was originally made from wheat It was broken over the bridersquos head to ensure fertility All of the guests eat a piece for good luck Single women used to place a piece of wedding cake under their pillows in the hopes of finding their own husbands

Father accompanying the bride This tradition symbolizes that the bridersquos father endorses the choice in husbands and is presenting his daughter as a pure bride to that man

Kissing the bride In older times a kiss symbolized a legal bond Therefore the bride and groom kissed to seal the deal on their betrothal

Origins of bridal customs

There are many traditions surrounding a wedding that people simply accept but understanding their origins can make the ceremony more meaningful

Bouquet Nowadays the bride carries a beautiful bouquet of flowers But the purpose of the bouquet held different meanings in the past Saracen brides carried orange blossoms for fertility Others carried a combination of herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits with their aroma Bouquets of dill were often carried again for fertility reasons and after the ceremony the dill was eaten to encourage lust

We Do RedesignsNew JewelleryFull Service Repair

Locally Owned amp Operated Since 1948

1126 Blanshard Street Victoria bull 2504181126 bull wwwvanislejewellersca

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding Choosing a gown and a colour that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year thatrsquos a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years and many people have their own stories of garish gowns theyrsquove been asked to don for a wedding Some have said that brides intentionally choose

ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure theyrsquore not outshined come the wedding day Although this may be the case for some most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all And colour scheme is integral in the choice of gown

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features Therefore some experimentation might be necessary to find a colour that is flattering to all and fits with the colour scheme

Depending on hair colour and skin shade there are many flattering hues available for gowns When making this decision consider bridesmaidsrsquo ethnicity and skin tone

Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-coloured gowns including silver gold purple and salmon Very pale

colours may be daring and conspicuous

Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colours including red navy peach and fuchsia However avoid colours in light yellow aqua gray taupe or mint which may make the bridesmaid look washed out

Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly coloured gowns in jewel tones Pastels may work but be careful about those depending on hair colour Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair Yellow and green may not work with a fair brunette Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde

Once a colour is chosen brides also need to consider the season Certain colours may look out of place depending on the season For example an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding Similarly russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring

wedding Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues greens pinks and purples for their weddings simply because those colours transcend the seasons

After colours are worked out the style of the gown deserves consideration Because not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes many brides are now open to selecting a colour and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style This way someone who is busty wonrsquot feel uncomfortable in strapless and someone who is thin wonrsquot be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable and different styles can help achieve this

Making the effort to choose a gown colour and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding

CHOOSING A hUE FOR THEbridesmaid gowns

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features

12 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Exterior Romanesque architecture with interior wood paneling and stunning

stained glass provides a rich welcoming place to capture special moments

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

A unique venue for photographers

Photo by Kuniophotography

La MamaMATERNITY amp MORE

Because Yoursquore Expecting

25038839771010 Broad Street Victoria

p g

toria

Style

wwwlamamamaternitycomns s AA ee iinin iiieeAvailalablbleeaSaSaSatttiinn n GGoGoGoG wwnnnssattt ww bSSS iiniiilaaaaiinaaat Avoo boo leAt v ll llt GGGG AAAvnss nnSaSaatttiinn n eeailalablleeaww iinin iiSSS Avoooo vai ett Availl bllAvai b e iiiiiitt MM CoCololoourursuuooullllCCMultitiplple e CCeelleelMultit p CCngg o oorrLoLLoL n r ShShShhororrrrtt pngg MMM rshhh lttrtt uuuMuSSS ip oooooooooo o oooooo ppgg eeh tt ll lllllhh t tMMMultitiplple eeellipnggn urursuhhhororrtt loloooolrrr LoLLo CoCoCCSSSoo o rsooooooo t eeet lt llllllllhh itt

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

250 479 0803Royal Oak Shopping Centre

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

We look forward to

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The magic doesnrsquot

end witha wedding

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

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Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Call Direct 250-897-9109 Email infoislandphotoboothcom

Island Wide Toll Free 1-888-90-PHOTO (1-888-907-4686)

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

corporate retreats amp wedding ceremoniesamp accommodation

edding ceremoniesodation

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rodcointeriorsshawcaOne stop shopping for your commercial and residential decorating needs

In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

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You spend time energy and money choosing your perfect dress for your perfect day

Esquimalt Plaza Dry Cleaning250 3868641 1 153 Esquimalt RoadThe 1 Drycleaner for your treasured gown

I can help

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

250-370-1818 bull 770 Spruce Avenue wwwtrianglehealingproductscom

Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

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Get the job done properly the firsttime when you call an experienced professional We guarantee every

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Licensed bull Bonded bull Insured bull WorkSafe

WE DObull Service Calls bull Renovations

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Campbell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287bell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287

Private Hot Tubs | Oceanfront Cozy Cabins

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

2506868155 bull infosharonraicom bull wwwsharonraicom

Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

Knickerbockerrsquos Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria BC250-658-5578

wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 3: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 3

Make an appointment with our wedding specialists in the Floral Deli or Bakery Departments For a complete list of our platters and prices pick up one of our the Art of Entertaining brochures in store or visit us online at wwwthriftyfoodscom bull 1-800-667-8280

artweddingsofThe

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW4

ENGAGEMENT pHOTO TIPSNewly engaged couples choose to capture the occasion in photos that they can cherish Often one of these photos is used as an announcement to family and friends and might even be published in the newspaper

Engagement photos may be part of a package negotiated with the photographer who will be covering the wedding day Some couples enlist the help of a friend or a budding photographer to capture an engagement shot The average cost of engagement photos can range from $200 to $500

Some couples opt to use a photographer who might specialize in other areas (ie fashion models) but

may want to break into the wedding business because of how lucrative it can be Costs may be negotiated as a result

When shopping around for a photographer couples should keep certain things in mind

The first and most important is selecting a photographer you can relate to If you donrsquot feel a connection with the photographer he or she will have trouble coaxing the shots that will produce the best results

He or she should also be a professional and have some experience working with posing couples This way the photos donrsquot look stiff or contrived

Engagement photos donrsquot have to be posed portraits Experiment with looks that fit your personalities for

memorable photos

20122012

Dream Wedding Experience(Victoria Bridal Exhibition Only)

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An All-Inclusive Honeymoon to

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SUNDAY FEBRUARY 19thNANAIMO

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Pearks Recreation Centre10am-4pm

Tickets $1000 in Advance$1500 at the Door

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Tickets $1000 in Advance$1000 at the Door

FREE BRIDAL PLANNERFASHION SHOWSEXHIBITORS

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Beban Park11am-4pm

Tickets $1000 in Advance$1300 at the Door

Available At All

Locations and Online at

wwwbridalexhibitionca

Victoria (250) 984-1555Nanaimo (250) 244-8449Toll Free 1-888-501-9696bridalexhibitioniegincca

Draw to Las Vegas will be at the end of each Vancouver IslandBridal Exhibition January 15th Victoria January 22nd CourtenayFebruary 19th Nanaimo with the Grand Prize Mayan Riviera Tripto be drawn from the Winners of the Las Vegas Trips on February 19thCertain Restrictions apply please see Grand Prize Passport for details

You have the perfect dress now add the perfect jewelleryTraditional elegant and affordable pearl jewellery for the bride and bridal party

Wearing your grandmotherrsquos necklaceWe will re-string your cherished heirloom pearls

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 5

Here are some other tips that can lead to great photos

bull Find a photographer who fits your style If yoursquore a quirky couple go with a quirky photographer If yoursquore reserved and a follow-the-book type of couple then select a more traditional photographer Some photographers out there forget this is your moment and want to impart their idea of what you want Make sure he or she takes your ideas into consideration

bull Select a photographer who is open to different shoot locations and brainstorming Some of the best photos occur in natural settings where things arenrsquot entirely planned If a photographer simply works out of a studio you may want to select one who has more free reign with different locales

bull Choose your location wisely Certain locations will stand out in your minds because they are visually stunning or are special places where you have spent moments as a couple By choosing a place that offers a personal connection therersquos a good chance yoursquoll appreciate the photos in the long run Also remember that unplanned stops may offer a great background for the image Be open to the unexpected

bull Try random poses and some candid shots Although you might have a vision of the perfect photo in your mind experimenting with different ideas can sometimes lead to a great photo you really love Expect to take your share of kissing nose-touching and portrait shots But some fun poses such as running or jumping (or rolling around on a beach full of waves) can produce candid shots that are truly masterpieces Remember sometimes photographers will pose you in positions that seem a bit awkward but this is to get the best lines of the body and flattering images

bull Choose clothing that fits the mood If time and budget allows have several different wardrobe changes so that you can see which outfits work and which ones donrsquot A formal outfit comfortable street clothes something beachy or clothing that fits with your interests (such as polo or baseball) can make for interesting engagement photos Avoid clothing that is too trendy or busy which may take away from the actual images in the long run Plus you donrsquot want to look back at these photos in the future and say ldquoWhat was I thinkingrdquo Avoid matchy-matchy though If you are dressed alike you may appear to be trying too hard

Ask aboutour weddingspecials

1195 Fort Street Victoria | wwwacademysecretcomWe would also like to introduce our newest team member Dr Marie-Louise Wessels MBChB CCFB MD

Call Academy Spa at (250) 385-6552and ask about our wedding specials

Botox bull Dermal Fillers bull SmartSkin Laser bull Teeth Whitening

Make sure yourwedding starts smoothly

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L I V E W E L L W I T H

BROADMEAD VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE310-777 Royal Oak Drive bull 250-727-3505

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Call to book your appointment to experience a YOUNG BLOOD Mineral Cosmetic Make-over with make-up artist Adrienne

A Glamorous LookFor Your Wedding

Serving Your Community for 20 Years

IS A WEDDING lOAN FOR YOU

Although a wedding loan may enable you to have the wedding of your dreams it comes with a steep cost mdash starting out your new life together with a considerable amount of debt

Engaged couples about to take a trip down the aisle are increasingly choosing to pay for the wedding themselves Where it used to be tradition for the bridersquos parents to handle the bill for the occasion today the responsibility for funding has largely fallen into the hands of the prospective bride and groom To meet the financial demands of the modern wedding some individuals turn to loans for financing some or all of the wedding You may question whether this is a good idea

As with any situation there are pros and cons The same can be said about a wedding loan The following are some factors you will need to consider before taking out a loan

One of the most important things to realize is that a wedding loan like any loan will need to be paid back and interest fees will be included What that means is that by the end of the payback period you will have spent several thousand dollars more on the loans than the original principal amount when interest is added in If yoursquore taking out a loan because yoursquove already gone above budget on wedding expenses a loan may push that budget even further into the red

That being said there are some instances where a loan may be an option that works for a couple For example couples who anticipate considerable monetary gifts from guests attending the wedding can offset the cost of the loan with those gifts Some couples might begin their professional careers after their wedding which will increase their salary enough to repay the loan quickly Others may actually have the money for the wedding but want to use a loan as a way to establish strong joint credit as a new couple

However many couples take out loans because they simply cannot afford their dream wedding In a world where many people already live beyond their means mdash

financing cars homes retail purchases mdash a wedding loan may just be another shovelful of soil on a financial grave The consensus among financial experts is that it is better to scale back the wedding or postpone it until you can save money the old-fashioned way instead of taking out a loan

But if a loan seems the only option here are some tips

Shop around on a wedding loan just as with any other loan Find the best rates and terms before settling on a lender

Decide how much you can afford to pay back within 2 to 3 years and how much the monthly payment will be Then take out the loan only in that amount

Figure out which portions of the wedding can be scaled back to make the finances work

See if options like refinancing a home or borrowing from family would be better than taking out a loan

Look at banks credit unions and even programs sponsored through your employer to compare rates on loans

Wedding loans may be secured or unsecured A home or car can serve as a form of security in a secured loan Unsecured wedding loans do not require a form of security

Personal loans like wedding loans generally have low annual percentage rates It may be worth it to take out the loan rather than using a credit card for financing because the cardrsquos rates could be double

Keep in mind that a wedding loan mdash even if it comes at a low interest rate mdash means yoursquore starting out your new life together with a large amount of debt for an event that lasts one day Think about whether the wedding of your dreams is worth using that joint checking account to pay off months of wedding debt

6 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

BEAUFORTHEIGHTSAT M O U N T WA S H I N G T O N

alpine cabins

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 7

Some might say a long celebrity marriage is one that endures the duration of the newly betrothedrsquos trip down the aisle Wersquove seen Britney Spears dissolve a marriage after 55 hours and Kim Kardashian call it quits after 72 days It seems even money canrsquot buy matrimonial happiness

But some couples have been together for 50 60 years and say theyrsquore still as much in love as they were the day they spoke their ldquoI dosrdquo What do they know that others do not

According to clinical psychologist and relationship guru Dr Phil McGraw ldquoWe all need to be flexible and to compromise in marriage but yoursquove got to be true to your core traits and characteristics what I call your authentic selfrdquo Some couples enter a relationship projecting a persona they believe the other person wants mdash one that really isnrsquot what theyrsquore all about This could be a woman trying to fill the role of her husbandrsquos nurturing mom or a guy playing the protector to his wife In reality marriage is more of a partnership and truth and trust are often at the basis of good marriages

There are many other ldquosecretsrdquo that marriage experts will offer to couples seeking the magic formula Whether yoursquore pondering marriage or have already tied the knot consider the following advice to make a marriage endure for the long haul

bull Therersquos no such thing as the perfect marriage Some couples create an image of what they think marriage is supposed to be and that image that often goes ldquopoofrdquo once reality sets in Even soulmates are bound to frustrate or irritate one another from time to time

bull Couples should express their frustrations Bottling up frustrations can eat at a person and eventually destroy a marriage Talking about the things that are bothering you with your partner opens up a discussion and can help you work through things

bull Divorce should not be seen as a viable option Couples who want to bail on the marriage at every turn could be directing their energy toward divorce as the only solution instead of discovering ways to remove the cause of strife Divorce can sometimes be the easy way out when you think about the work that goes into keeping a marriage working Experts say that there are a few issues like adultery abuse and drugalcohol addiction that may be reasonable catalysts for divorce if personal safety and sanity is being compromised

bull Make time for romance Itrsquos easily said but not so easily done Too often married couples forget what it was like to date when all of their attention was spent on each other instead of the house kids work etc Today there seems to be even more distractions from e-mails to texts to pressure and obligations at the office Happy couples find the time to spend quality time with their spouses mdash even if thatrsquos only 10 minutes of alone time a day

bull Put ldquowerdquo first Many people operate on a ldquomerdquo mentality When yoursquore part of a couple give more to your spouse than you take If he or she is doing the same yoursquore working collectively for the benefit of the marriage instead of yourselves

bull Respect each other Often couples having troubles realize they treat strangers better than they treat each other Would you use the insults or unflattering terms that you sometimes throw at your spouse with a complete stranger Probably not Good marriages are based on a foundation of respect and love Itrsquos easy to lose feelings of love if the respect is gone

Couples can realize that there are some thorns that come with the roses of marriage and staying happy together does take work for it to all be worth it

SecretsTO A lONG amp hAPPy MARRIAGE

WEDDING Those thinking about tying the knot in the months to come may be discouraged by how expensive weddings can be But with a little ingenuity and a hands-on approach couples can have a wedding that is inexpensive and memorable at the same time

Weddingbells magazine states that the average cost for a wedding in Canada is $23330 up from $20129 in 2010

According to CostofWeddingcom on average US couples spend $26542 for their weddings

These amounts do not include the cost of an engagement ring or wedding bands With such a high pricetag some couples may wonder if they can afford their dream wedding or if there are ways to cut costs Having a backyard DIY wedding can be the answer

Although some may envision a backyard wedding with picnic benches and Dad at the grill it can be a much classier affair than that Smart couples are realizing that the money they would normally spend on a big wedding at an outside venue can be put to better use either through buying a new home or fixing up one they may already own

do-it-yourselfgetting startedA DIY wedding is one that will take much more work than simply hiring vendors and leaving the details to them But the money saved with sweat equity can be substantial A well-planned wedding is the best start Grab a notebook and start making lists of all the things you will need

bull locationbull tables and chairsbull linensbull foodbull silverware and glasswarebull invitationsbull photographybull musicbull officiantbull musicbull centerpieces and other deacutecorbull cake or dessertbull lightingbull attire bull flowers

8 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

ldquoThe best time to do your hair trial is when you try your dress on when it arrives You

can see the whole beautiful picture in the mirror as you

choose your hair accessories veil and jewellery and imag-

ine how amazing you will look on your wedding dayrdquo

ndash The Bridersquos Closet

2243 Beacon Ave Sidney BC 250-656-0275 wwwmarywinspearca

Planning a wedding reception dinner dance concert or other special event Need to accomodate up to 800 guests You can really throw a party in our fully accessible 8100 square foot space at Bodine Family Hall

bull Across the street from Mary Winspear Centre for convenient accommodation of your Wedding Guests and Familybull Pet Friendlybull Air Conditionedbull Fridge amp Microwavebull Free High Speed Internetbull All King or Queen Pillow Top Bedsbull Whirlpool sauna fi tness equipmentbull Group Rates and Family Suites Available

Closest Best Westernto Victoria International

Airport amp BC Ferries

Each Best Westernreg Branded Hotel is independently Owned and Operated Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International Inc copy2012 Best Western International Inc All rights reserved

Best Western PLUSEmerald Isle Motor Inn

2306 Beacon Ave Sidney BC2506564441 bull 18003153377

bwemeraldislecom

Sidney-by-the-Sea

Great Food AnytimeWhether itrsquos a light

meal at middayan afternoon snack or

a hearty dinnerSmittyrsquos satisfi es

every timeServing great food in Canada since 1960

in Sidney since 1985

250-656-24232306 Beacon Ave in Sidney(Next to the Best Western PLUS

Emerald Isle)

Sid b th S

bull 18rsquo vaulted ceiling bull Beautiful Ambiencebull Polished flooring bull Raised performance stagebull 12x12 drop screen and state of the art sound amp lighting systemsbull Natural light amp fresh sea air from large roll up doors that open to an adjoining 5000 foot outdoor patio complete with tentsbull FREE onsite parking and ideally located a short walk to nearby accomodations and area attractions

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 9

Many items necessary for a wedding can be bought in advance Some couples find that purchasing low-cost items at discount stores turns out to be less expensive than renting For example inexpensive glasses and silverware can be bought at dollar stores or chains like Ikea Later on these items can be kept sold or even donated to shelters

Tablecloths donrsquot have to be traditional It may be less expensive to purchase pieces of fabric from a fabric store and dress them up yourself Candles can be stockpiled relatively easy and provide a very affordable means of ambient light Plan out centerpiece ideas and figure out which components can be bought and stored Then items can be assembled at leisure Wedding stationery is one thing that will have to be bought well in advance so there will be time enough to

print save-the-date invitations and response cards as well as mail them

An informal wedding may mean couples can get simple attire Buying off the rack may mean a smaller pricetag for gowns Gentleman may be fine with sportcoats and slacks Purchase wardrobe essentials several months in advance to be sure there will be time for alterations if necessary

Enlist the help of family and friends to get many of the tasks completed Upon asking many couples find members of the family who have skills in certain areas which can be tapped for the wedding such as a gourmet chef a disc jockey a photographer or even someone who can officiate the vows Having these people on board means a great reduction in costs

work in advanceBecause couples will be doing the work themselves itrsquos best to start several days in advance of the wedding (weather permitting) Be sure the grounds are well groomed and landscaped Ensure there are no tripping hazards and that there is a sturdy surface for placing tables or creating a dance floor

It may pay to ask an electrician or someone who dabbles in electric work to help string some lights to better illuminate the area especially for when the sun goes down

Set up the tables and chairs to finalize placement the day before Figure out where the ceremony will take place A small arbor can mark the area and make a nice photo backdrop Dress the tables with linens and settings the morning of the wedding

One splurge couples may want to make is hiring a waitstaff to help set up food service areas serve as bartenders and clear away dishes and other messes This way the bride and groom can mingle with guests

readying the venueHere are some other ways to save money on DIY weddings

bull Fruit is less expensive than flowers for centerpieces

bull Include postcard response cards in wedding invites The postage is less and you donrsquot have to spend money on an extra envelope

bull Be sure to check with your town if you need a permit or variance for having so many cars parked by the house in the event of a backyard wedding Otherwise you could be facing a fine

bull Many different foods can be cooked in

advance and frozen instead of hiring a catering service

bull Consider favours that also double as table centerpieces

bull Bouquets can easily be made with store-bought flowers some floral tape and decorative ribbon

bull Restrict the bar to wine and beer and yoursquoll save money on expensive liquors

A DIY wedding can be a fun memorable event that costs a couple a fraction of what it would be to have it held at an expensive location

other tips amp tricks

You Deserve the Best279 Selby Street Nanaimo 250-753-4975

wwwthebridesclosetcom

hellipand create moments to treasure by placing the utmost emphasis ongenuine hospitality Our experienced catering staff will coordinate your special day with caring personalized service We offer packages that cover everything

from a cocktail hour to a formal buffet Ask about our exclusive banquet facilitiesJust tell us your vision and wersquoll combine all the ingredients to bring it to life

Intimate gatherings of 50 to Gala events of 300

We invite you to book a complimentary consultation Just call 2508183226

Innovations Cateringwwwinnovationscateringcom

Every couple wants their wedding to be memorable The goal of planning a wedding is to create an experience that everyone will remember for years to come For some couples a theme wedding is the best way to accomplish just that

When it comes time to select a theme the day the wedding takes place may dictate the theme For example if the wedding

takes place on Halloween the ideas for the theme are easy Many other couples choose a theme that highlights a specific interest or hobby or something that is dear to them Here are some popular wedding themes

bull Holiday The Christmas season lends itself well to wedding planning The colours (red green gold) are already established and most churches and buildings are already decked out in holiday finery cutting down on the amount of flowers and embellishments couples need Because the holiday season is so busy and a popular time for socializing couples who want to tie the knot during this time of year should send save-the-date cards well in advance Another option is to have a ldquoChristmas in Julyrdquo wedding featuring the same holiday themes but without the hectic nature of the holiday season

bull Vegas Couples who want to tie the knot in Las Vegas but want to ensure all their loved ones can attend can recreate the magic of Vegas wherever they may be Casino-inspired games and big buffet meals can make guests feel like they have stepped into a casino on the famed Vegas strip In addition an Elvis impersonator is essential to a Vegas wedding

bull TV show Some couples elevate certain television shows to cult status Whether

itrsquos ldquoFriendsrdquo or ldquoStar Trekrdquo popular television shows have been transformed into festive wedding themes Whether the idea is to go daring and exchange vows in costume or simply name reception tables according to characters or show locations couples can include a little television fun into the event

bull Fairytale Many men and women envision a fairytale wedding complete with horse-drawn carriage and the ldquohappily ever afterrdquo This is what makes Disney properties as well as the various castles around the world popular backdrops for wedding events Those planning a fairytale wedding need only look to favourite stories or movies for their inspiration

bull Interest or passion Love to climb mountains Avid about scuba diving Couples who share a particular interest can include elements of this sport or hobby into their wedding Invitations and deacutecor can hint at the theme and then special activities can further enhance it Fish bowls as centerpieces may call to mind underwater adventures while surfboard-shaped invites may set the scene for a beachside party

Theme weddings can add an extra spice to the festivities and incorporate couplesrsquo interests into the event mdash making it even more special

CAN ADD Up TO ExTRA FUN

WEDDING

A masquerade theme might be an entertaining theme for a couplersquos nuptials

themes10 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

I dowant to look amp

feel my radiant best on this day of days

Rejuvenating spa treatments and group celebrations

help you unwind and prepare for your

special day

2503913920 santespavictoriacom

1999 Country Club WayVictoria BC

We offer couples one hour in the Castle for a ceremony and photo session Say your

vows in front of one of the fabulous fireplaces then have photographs

taken throughout the Castle

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

Renew your vows or elope

Photo by Kuniophotography

Wedding Receptions and Ceremonies

Banquet Room and Outdoor Deck Overlook Golf Course

Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club1050 McTavish Road Sidney2506563136 wwwglenmeadowsbcca

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 11

Chances are those who have attended a wedding have witnessed some popular traditions The bride wears a veil a court of wedding attendants accompanies the bride and groom and birdseed rice or flower petals are tossed But have you ever wondered why Wedding customs are ripe with tradition and harken back to days when superstition and myth often ruled the day

Throwing rice Today it has become de rigueur to blow bubbles toss birdseed or release doves when the bride and groom leave the house of worship newly betrothed Thatrsquos because savvy individuals found that raw rice can pose a hazard to birds pecking in the area However rice throwing is an old custom that dates back to the Middle Ages when wheat or rice where thrown to symbolize fertility for the couple

Bridesmaids There may be arguments over dresses and how many bridesmaids to have in a wedding party now but in ancient times it was ldquothe more the merrierrdquo Thatrsquos because bridesmaids were another measure to keep the bride safe against evil spirits Essentially the bridesmaids were decoys for the spirits mdash dressing like the bride to confuse the spirits or maybe help deter them to leave the bride be

Wedding rings Wearing of wedding rings dates back to ancient Egypt The round shape of a ring symbolizes eternal love The ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it is believed this finger has a blood vessel that goes directly to the heart

Wedding cake The traditional wedding cake evolved from Roman times when the cake was originally made from wheat It was broken over the bridersquos head to ensure fertility All of the guests eat a piece for good luck Single women used to place a piece of wedding cake under their pillows in the hopes of finding their own husbands

Father accompanying the bride This tradition symbolizes that the bridersquos father endorses the choice in husbands and is presenting his daughter as a pure bride to that man

Kissing the bride In older times a kiss symbolized a legal bond Therefore the bride and groom kissed to seal the deal on their betrothal

Origins of bridal customs

There are many traditions surrounding a wedding that people simply accept but understanding their origins can make the ceremony more meaningful

Bouquet Nowadays the bride carries a beautiful bouquet of flowers But the purpose of the bouquet held different meanings in the past Saracen brides carried orange blossoms for fertility Others carried a combination of herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits with their aroma Bouquets of dill were often carried again for fertility reasons and after the ceremony the dill was eaten to encourage lust

We Do RedesignsNew JewelleryFull Service Repair

Locally Owned amp Operated Since 1948

1126 Blanshard Street Victoria bull 2504181126 bull wwwvanislejewellersca

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding Choosing a gown and a colour that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year thatrsquos a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years and many people have their own stories of garish gowns theyrsquove been asked to don for a wedding Some have said that brides intentionally choose

ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure theyrsquore not outshined come the wedding day Although this may be the case for some most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all And colour scheme is integral in the choice of gown

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features Therefore some experimentation might be necessary to find a colour that is flattering to all and fits with the colour scheme

Depending on hair colour and skin shade there are many flattering hues available for gowns When making this decision consider bridesmaidsrsquo ethnicity and skin tone

Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-coloured gowns including silver gold purple and salmon Very pale

colours may be daring and conspicuous

Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colours including red navy peach and fuchsia However avoid colours in light yellow aqua gray taupe or mint which may make the bridesmaid look washed out

Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly coloured gowns in jewel tones Pastels may work but be careful about those depending on hair colour Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair Yellow and green may not work with a fair brunette Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde

Once a colour is chosen brides also need to consider the season Certain colours may look out of place depending on the season For example an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding Similarly russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring

wedding Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues greens pinks and purples for their weddings simply because those colours transcend the seasons

After colours are worked out the style of the gown deserves consideration Because not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes many brides are now open to selecting a colour and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style This way someone who is busty wonrsquot feel uncomfortable in strapless and someone who is thin wonrsquot be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable and different styles can help achieve this

Making the effort to choose a gown colour and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding

CHOOSING A hUE FOR THEbridesmaid gowns

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features

12 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Exterior Romanesque architecture with interior wood paneling and stunning

stained glass provides a rich welcoming place to capture special moments

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

A unique venue for photographers

Photo by Kuniophotography

La MamaMATERNITY amp MORE

Because Yoursquore Expecting

25038839771010 Broad Street Victoria

p g

toria

Style

wwwlamamamaternitycomns s AA ee iinin iiieeAvailalablbleeaSaSaSatttiinn n GGoGoGoG wwnnnssattt ww bSSS iiniiilaaaaiinaaat Avoo boo leAt v ll llt GGGG AAAvnss nnSaSaatttiinn n eeailalablleeaww iinin iiSSS Avoooo vai ett Availl bllAvai b e iiiiiitt MM CoCololoourursuuooullllCCMultitiplple e CCeelleelMultit p CCngg o oorrLoLLoL n r ShShShhororrrrtt pngg MMM rshhh lttrtt uuuMuSSS ip oooooooooo o oooooo ppgg eeh tt ll lllllhh t tMMMultitiplple eeellipnggn urursuhhhororrtt loloooolrrr LoLLo CoCoCCSSSoo o rsooooooo t eeet lt llllllllhh itt

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

250 479 0803Royal Oak Shopping Centre

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

We look forward to

meeting you

The magic doesnrsquot

end witha wedding

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

2 FOR 1 SMOOTHIESALL DAY

GRAND OPENINGSaturday January 14th

We would like to invite you to the Grand Opening of Booster Juicersquos latest Premium Juice and Smoothie Bar Come join us for the best tasting Smoothies free samples hot food and more

Booster Juice Cook Street Village240 Cook Street

334_Store271_Bridal Ad1indd 1 12-01-05 315 PM

PHARMASAVEreg

L I V E W E L L W I T H

BROADMEAD VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE310-777 Royal Oak Drive bull 250-727-3505

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Serving Your Community for 20 Years

Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Call Direct 250-897-9109 Email infoislandphotoboothcom

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

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rodcointeriorsshawcaOne stop shopping for your commercial and residential decorating needs

In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

mrcitrusolivecom bull wwwcitrusocom250 891 5448

Voted Best Carpet Cleaning Company 4 Years in a Row

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Receive $50 off your Carpet Cleaningwith purchase of $198 or more

Present this coupon at time of serviceOffer expires August 1 2012$50 $50

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Let us make sure it stays that wayLL

You spend time energy and money choosing your perfect dress for your perfect day

Esquimalt Plaza Dry Cleaning250 3868641 1 153 Esquimalt RoadThe 1 Drycleaner for your treasured gown

I can help

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

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Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

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Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

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Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

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The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

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US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

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Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

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Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

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Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

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Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

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On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

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Plan your bridal skin program today

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24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 4: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW4

ENGAGEMENT pHOTO TIPSNewly engaged couples choose to capture the occasion in photos that they can cherish Often one of these photos is used as an announcement to family and friends and might even be published in the newspaper

Engagement photos may be part of a package negotiated with the photographer who will be covering the wedding day Some couples enlist the help of a friend or a budding photographer to capture an engagement shot The average cost of engagement photos can range from $200 to $500

Some couples opt to use a photographer who might specialize in other areas (ie fashion models) but

may want to break into the wedding business because of how lucrative it can be Costs may be negotiated as a result

When shopping around for a photographer couples should keep certain things in mind

The first and most important is selecting a photographer you can relate to If you donrsquot feel a connection with the photographer he or she will have trouble coaxing the shots that will produce the best results

He or she should also be a professional and have some experience working with posing couples This way the photos donrsquot look stiff or contrived

Engagement photos donrsquot have to be posed portraits Experiment with looks that fit your personalities for

memorable photos

20122012

Dream Wedding Experience(Victoria Bridal Exhibition Only)

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Pearks Recreation Centre10am-4pm

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Draw to Las Vegas will be at the end of each Vancouver IslandBridal Exhibition January 15th Victoria January 22nd CourtenayFebruary 19th Nanaimo with the Grand Prize Mayan Riviera Tripto be drawn from the Winners of the Las Vegas Trips on February 19thCertain Restrictions apply please see Grand Prize Passport for details

You have the perfect dress now add the perfect jewelleryTraditional elegant and affordable pearl jewellery for the bride and bridal party

Wearing your grandmotherrsquos necklaceWe will re-string your cherished heirloom pearls

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 5

Here are some other tips that can lead to great photos

bull Find a photographer who fits your style If yoursquore a quirky couple go with a quirky photographer If yoursquore reserved and a follow-the-book type of couple then select a more traditional photographer Some photographers out there forget this is your moment and want to impart their idea of what you want Make sure he or she takes your ideas into consideration

bull Select a photographer who is open to different shoot locations and brainstorming Some of the best photos occur in natural settings where things arenrsquot entirely planned If a photographer simply works out of a studio you may want to select one who has more free reign with different locales

bull Choose your location wisely Certain locations will stand out in your minds because they are visually stunning or are special places where you have spent moments as a couple By choosing a place that offers a personal connection therersquos a good chance yoursquoll appreciate the photos in the long run Also remember that unplanned stops may offer a great background for the image Be open to the unexpected

bull Try random poses and some candid shots Although you might have a vision of the perfect photo in your mind experimenting with different ideas can sometimes lead to a great photo you really love Expect to take your share of kissing nose-touching and portrait shots But some fun poses such as running or jumping (or rolling around on a beach full of waves) can produce candid shots that are truly masterpieces Remember sometimes photographers will pose you in positions that seem a bit awkward but this is to get the best lines of the body and flattering images

bull Choose clothing that fits the mood If time and budget allows have several different wardrobe changes so that you can see which outfits work and which ones donrsquot A formal outfit comfortable street clothes something beachy or clothing that fits with your interests (such as polo or baseball) can make for interesting engagement photos Avoid clothing that is too trendy or busy which may take away from the actual images in the long run Plus you donrsquot want to look back at these photos in the future and say ldquoWhat was I thinkingrdquo Avoid matchy-matchy though If you are dressed alike you may appear to be trying too hard

Ask aboutour weddingspecials

1195 Fort Street Victoria | wwwacademysecretcomWe would also like to introduce our newest team member Dr Marie-Louise Wessels MBChB CCFB MD

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IS A WEDDING lOAN FOR YOU

Although a wedding loan may enable you to have the wedding of your dreams it comes with a steep cost mdash starting out your new life together with a considerable amount of debt

Engaged couples about to take a trip down the aisle are increasingly choosing to pay for the wedding themselves Where it used to be tradition for the bridersquos parents to handle the bill for the occasion today the responsibility for funding has largely fallen into the hands of the prospective bride and groom To meet the financial demands of the modern wedding some individuals turn to loans for financing some or all of the wedding You may question whether this is a good idea

As with any situation there are pros and cons The same can be said about a wedding loan The following are some factors you will need to consider before taking out a loan

One of the most important things to realize is that a wedding loan like any loan will need to be paid back and interest fees will be included What that means is that by the end of the payback period you will have spent several thousand dollars more on the loans than the original principal amount when interest is added in If yoursquore taking out a loan because yoursquove already gone above budget on wedding expenses a loan may push that budget even further into the red

That being said there are some instances where a loan may be an option that works for a couple For example couples who anticipate considerable monetary gifts from guests attending the wedding can offset the cost of the loan with those gifts Some couples might begin their professional careers after their wedding which will increase their salary enough to repay the loan quickly Others may actually have the money for the wedding but want to use a loan as a way to establish strong joint credit as a new couple

However many couples take out loans because they simply cannot afford their dream wedding In a world where many people already live beyond their means mdash

financing cars homes retail purchases mdash a wedding loan may just be another shovelful of soil on a financial grave The consensus among financial experts is that it is better to scale back the wedding or postpone it until you can save money the old-fashioned way instead of taking out a loan

But if a loan seems the only option here are some tips

Shop around on a wedding loan just as with any other loan Find the best rates and terms before settling on a lender

Decide how much you can afford to pay back within 2 to 3 years and how much the monthly payment will be Then take out the loan only in that amount

Figure out which portions of the wedding can be scaled back to make the finances work

See if options like refinancing a home or borrowing from family would be better than taking out a loan

Look at banks credit unions and even programs sponsored through your employer to compare rates on loans

Wedding loans may be secured or unsecured A home or car can serve as a form of security in a secured loan Unsecured wedding loans do not require a form of security

Personal loans like wedding loans generally have low annual percentage rates It may be worth it to take out the loan rather than using a credit card for financing because the cardrsquos rates could be double

Keep in mind that a wedding loan mdash even if it comes at a low interest rate mdash means yoursquore starting out your new life together with a large amount of debt for an event that lasts one day Think about whether the wedding of your dreams is worth using that joint checking account to pay off months of wedding debt

6 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

BEAUFORTHEIGHTSAT M O U N T WA S H I N G T O N

alpine cabins

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 7

Some might say a long celebrity marriage is one that endures the duration of the newly betrothedrsquos trip down the aisle Wersquove seen Britney Spears dissolve a marriage after 55 hours and Kim Kardashian call it quits after 72 days It seems even money canrsquot buy matrimonial happiness

But some couples have been together for 50 60 years and say theyrsquore still as much in love as they were the day they spoke their ldquoI dosrdquo What do they know that others do not

According to clinical psychologist and relationship guru Dr Phil McGraw ldquoWe all need to be flexible and to compromise in marriage but yoursquove got to be true to your core traits and characteristics what I call your authentic selfrdquo Some couples enter a relationship projecting a persona they believe the other person wants mdash one that really isnrsquot what theyrsquore all about This could be a woman trying to fill the role of her husbandrsquos nurturing mom or a guy playing the protector to his wife In reality marriage is more of a partnership and truth and trust are often at the basis of good marriages

There are many other ldquosecretsrdquo that marriage experts will offer to couples seeking the magic formula Whether yoursquore pondering marriage or have already tied the knot consider the following advice to make a marriage endure for the long haul

bull Therersquos no such thing as the perfect marriage Some couples create an image of what they think marriage is supposed to be and that image that often goes ldquopoofrdquo once reality sets in Even soulmates are bound to frustrate or irritate one another from time to time

bull Couples should express their frustrations Bottling up frustrations can eat at a person and eventually destroy a marriage Talking about the things that are bothering you with your partner opens up a discussion and can help you work through things

bull Divorce should not be seen as a viable option Couples who want to bail on the marriage at every turn could be directing their energy toward divorce as the only solution instead of discovering ways to remove the cause of strife Divorce can sometimes be the easy way out when you think about the work that goes into keeping a marriage working Experts say that there are a few issues like adultery abuse and drugalcohol addiction that may be reasonable catalysts for divorce if personal safety and sanity is being compromised

bull Make time for romance Itrsquos easily said but not so easily done Too often married couples forget what it was like to date when all of their attention was spent on each other instead of the house kids work etc Today there seems to be even more distractions from e-mails to texts to pressure and obligations at the office Happy couples find the time to spend quality time with their spouses mdash even if thatrsquos only 10 minutes of alone time a day

bull Put ldquowerdquo first Many people operate on a ldquomerdquo mentality When yoursquore part of a couple give more to your spouse than you take If he or she is doing the same yoursquore working collectively for the benefit of the marriage instead of yourselves

bull Respect each other Often couples having troubles realize they treat strangers better than they treat each other Would you use the insults or unflattering terms that you sometimes throw at your spouse with a complete stranger Probably not Good marriages are based on a foundation of respect and love Itrsquos easy to lose feelings of love if the respect is gone

Couples can realize that there are some thorns that come with the roses of marriage and staying happy together does take work for it to all be worth it

SecretsTO A lONG amp hAPPy MARRIAGE

WEDDING Those thinking about tying the knot in the months to come may be discouraged by how expensive weddings can be But with a little ingenuity and a hands-on approach couples can have a wedding that is inexpensive and memorable at the same time

Weddingbells magazine states that the average cost for a wedding in Canada is $23330 up from $20129 in 2010

According to CostofWeddingcom on average US couples spend $26542 for their weddings

These amounts do not include the cost of an engagement ring or wedding bands With such a high pricetag some couples may wonder if they can afford their dream wedding or if there are ways to cut costs Having a backyard DIY wedding can be the answer

Although some may envision a backyard wedding with picnic benches and Dad at the grill it can be a much classier affair than that Smart couples are realizing that the money they would normally spend on a big wedding at an outside venue can be put to better use either through buying a new home or fixing up one they may already own

do-it-yourselfgetting startedA DIY wedding is one that will take much more work than simply hiring vendors and leaving the details to them But the money saved with sweat equity can be substantial A well-planned wedding is the best start Grab a notebook and start making lists of all the things you will need

bull locationbull tables and chairsbull linensbull foodbull silverware and glasswarebull invitationsbull photographybull musicbull officiantbull musicbull centerpieces and other deacutecorbull cake or dessertbull lightingbull attire bull flowers

8 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

ldquoThe best time to do your hair trial is when you try your dress on when it arrives You

can see the whole beautiful picture in the mirror as you

choose your hair accessories veil and jewellery and imag-

ine how amazing you will look on your wedding dayrdquo

ndash The Bridersquos Closet

2243 Beacon Ave Sidney BC 250-656-0275 wwwmarywinspearca

Planning a wedding reception dinner dance concert or other special event Need to accomodate up to 800 guests You can really throw a party in our fully accessible 8100 square foot space at Bodine Family Hall

bull Across the street from Mary Winspear Centre for convenient accommodation of your Wedding Guests and Familybull Pet Friendlybull Air Conditionedbull Fridge amp Microwavebull Free High Speed Internetbull All King or Queen Pillow Top Bedsbull Whirlpool sauna fi tness equipmentbull Group Rates and Family Suites Available

Closest Best Westernto Victoria International

Airport amp BC Ferries

Each Best Westernreg Branded Hotel is independently Owned and Operated Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International Inc copy2012 Best Western International Inc All rights reserved

Best Western PLUSEmerald Isle Motor Inn

2306 Beacon Ave Sidney BC2506564441 bull 18003153377

bwemeraldislecom

Sidney-by-the-Sea

Great Food AnytimeWhether itrsquos a light

meal at middayan afternoon snack or

a hearty dinnerSmittyrsquos satisfi es

every timeServing great food in Canada since 1960

in Sidney since 1985

250-656-24232306 Beacon Ave in Sidney(Next to the Best Western PLUS

Emerald Isle)

Sid b th S

bull 18rsquo vaulted ceiling bull Beautiful Ambiencebull Polished flooring bull Raised performance stagebull 12x12 drop screen and state of the art sound amp lighting systemsbull Natural light amp fresh sea air from large roll up doors that open to an adjoining 5000 foot outdoor patio complete with tentsbull FREE onsite parking and ideally located a short walk to nearby accomodations and area attractions

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 9

Many items necessary for a wedding can be bought in advance Some couples find that purchasing low-cost items at discount stores turns out to be less expensive than renting For example inexpensive glasses and silverware can be bought at dollar stores or chains like Ikea Later on these items can be kept sold or even donated to shelters

Tablecloths donrsquot have to be traditional It may be less expensive to purchase pieces of fabric from a fabric store and dress them up yourself Candles can be stockpiled relatively easy and provide a very affordable means of ambient light Plan out centerpiece ideas and figure out which components can be bought and stored Then items can be assembled at leisure Wedding stationery is one thing that will have to be bought well in advance so there will be time enough to

print save-the-date invitations and response cards as well as mail them

An informal wedding may mean couples can get simple attire Buying off the rack may mean a smaller pricetag for gowns Gentleman may be fine with sportcoats and slacks Purchase wardrobe essentials several months in advance to be sure there will be time for alterations if necessary

Enlist the help of family and friends to get many of the tasks completed Upon asking many couples find members of the family who have skills in certain areas which can be tapped for the wedding such as a gourmet chef a disc jockey a photographer or even someone who can officiate the vows Having these people on board means a great reduction in costs

work in advanceBecause couples will be doing the work themselves itrsquos best to start several days in advance of the wedding (weather permitting) Be sure the grounds are well groomed and landscaped Ensure there are no tripping hazards and that there is a sturdy surface for placing tables or creating a dance floor

It may pay to ask an electrician or someone who dabbles in electric work to help string some lights to better illuminate the area especially for when the sun goes down

Set up the tables and chairs to finalize placement the day before Figure out where the ceremony will take place A small arbor can mark the area and make a nice photo backdrop Dress the tables with linens and settings the morning of the wedding

One splurge couples may want to make is hiring a waitstaff to help set up food service areas serve as bartenders and clear away dishes and other messes This way the bride and groom can mingle with guests

readying the venueHere are some other ways to save money on DIY weddings

bull Fruit is less expensive than flowers for centerpieces

bull Include postcard response cards in wedding invites The postage is less and you donrsquot have to spend money on an extra envelope

bull Be sure to check with your town if you need a permit or variance for having so many cars parked by the house in the event of a backyard wedding Otherwise you could be facing a fine

bull Many different foods can be cooked in

advance and frozen instead of hiring a catering service

bull Consider favours that also double as table centerpieces

bull Bouquets can easily be made with store-bought flowers some floral tape and decorative ribbon

bull Restrict the bar to wine and beer and yoursquoll save money on expensive liquors

A DIY wedding can be a fun memorable event that costs a couple a fraction of what it would be to have it held at an expensive location

other tips amp tricks

You Deserve the Best279 Selby Street Nanaimo 250-753-4975

wwwthebridesclosetcom

hellipand create moments to treasure by placing the utmost emphasis ongenuine hospitality Our experienced catering staff will coordinate your special day with caring personalized service We offer packages that cover everything

from a cocktail hour to a formal buffet Ask about our exclusive banquet facilitiesJust tell us your vision and wersquoll combine all the ingredients to bring it to life

Intimate gatherings of 50 to Gala events of 300

We invite you to book a complimentary consultation Just call 2508183226

Innovations Cateringwwwinnovationscateringcom

Every couple wants their wedding to be memorable The goal of planning a wedding is to create an experience that everyone will remember for years to come For some couples a theme wedding is the best way to accomplish just that

When it comes time to select a theme the day the wedding takes place may dictate the theme For example if the wedding

takes place on Halloween the ideas for the theme are easy Many other couples choose a theme that highlights a specific interest or hobby or something that is dear to them Here are some popular wedding themes

bull Holiday The Christmas season lends itself well to wedding planning The colours (red green gold) are already established and most churches and buildings are already decked out in holiday finery cutting down on the amount of flowers and embellishments couples need Because the holiday season is so busy and a popular time for socializing couples who want to tie the knot during this time of year should send save-the-date cards well in advance Another option is to have a ldquoChristmas in Julyrdquo wedding featuring the same holiday themes but without the hectic nature of the holiday season

bull Vegas Couples who want to tie the knot in Las Vegas but want to ensure all their loved ones can attend can recreate the magic of Vegas wherever they may be Casino-inspired games and big buffet meals can make guests feel like they have stepped into a casino on the famed Vegas strip In addition an Elvis impersonator is essential to a Vegas wedding

bull TV show Some couples elevate certain television shows to cult status Whether

itrsquos ldquoFriendsrdquo or ldquoStar Trekrdquo popular television shows have been transformed into festive wedding themes Whether the idea is to go daring and exchange vows in costume or simply name reception tables according to characters or show locations couples can include a little television fun into the event

bull Fairytale Many men and women envision a fairytale wedding complete with horse-drawn carriage and the ldquohappily ever afterrdquo This is what makes Disney properties as well as the various castles around the world popular backdrops for wedding events Those planning a fairytale wedding need only look to favourite stories or movies for their inspiration

bull Interest or passion Love to climb mountains Avid about scuba diving Couples who share a particular interest can include elements of this sport or hobby into their wedding Invitations and deacutecor can hint at the theme and then special activities can further enhance it Fish bowls as centerpieces may call to mind underwater adventures while surfboard-shaped invites may set the scene for a beachside party

Theme weddings can add an extra spice to the festivities and incorporate couplesrsquo interests into the event mdash making it even more special

CAN ADD Up TO ExTRA FUN

WEDDING

A masquerade theme might be an entertaining theme for a couplersquos nuptials

themes10 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

I dowant to look amp

feel my radiant best on this day of days

Rejuvenating spa treatments and group celebrations

help you unwind and prepare for your

special day

2503913920 santespavictoriacom

1999 Country Club WayVictoria BC

We offer couples one hour in the Castle for a ceremony and photo session Say your

vows in front of one of the fabulous fireplaces then have photographs

taken throughout the Castle

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

Renew your vows or elope

Photo by Kuniophotography

Wedding Receptions and Ceremonies

Banquet Room and Outdoor Deck Overlook Golf Course

Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club1050 McTavish Road Sidney2506563136 wwwglenmeadowsbcca

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 11

Chances are those who have attended a wedding have witnessed some popular traditions The bride wears a veil a court of wedding attendants accompanies the bride and groom and birdseed rice or flower petals are tossed But have you ever wondered why Wedding customs are ripe with tradition and harken back to days when superstition and myth often ruled the day

Throwing rice Today it has become de rigueur to blow bubbles toss birdseed or release doves when the bride and groom leave the house of worship newly betrothed Thatrsquos because savvy individuals found that raw rice can pose a hazard to birds pecking in the area However rice throwing is an old custom that dates back to the Middle Ages when wheat or rice where thrown to symbolize fertility for the couple

Bridesmaids There may be arguments over dresses and how many bridesmaids to have in a wedding party now but in ancient times it was ldquothe more the merrierrdquo Thatrsquos because bridesmaids were another measure to keep the bride safe against evil spirits Essentially the bridesmaids were decoys for the spirits mdash dressing like the bride to confuse the spirits or maybe help deter them to leave the bride be

Wedding rings Wearing of wedding rings dates back to ancient Egypt The round shape of a ring symbolizes eternal love The ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it is believed this finger has a blood vessel that goes directly to the heart

Wedding cake The traditional wedding cake evolved from Roman times when the cake was originally made from wheat It was broken over the bridersquos head to ensure fertility All of the guests eat a piece for good luck Single women used to place a piece of wedding cake under their pillows in the hopes of finding their own husbands

Father accompanying the bride This tradition symbolizes that the bridersquos father endorses the choice in husbands and is presenting his daughter as a pure bride to that man

Kissing the bride In older times a kiss symbolized a legal bond Therefore the bride and groom kissed to seal the deal on their betrothal

Origins of bridal customs

There are many traditions surrounding a wedding that people simply accept but understanding their origins can make the ceremony more meaningful

Bouquet Nowadays the bride carries a beautiful bouquet of flowers But the purpose of the bouquet held different meanings in the past Saracen brides carried orange blossoms for fertility Others carried a combination of herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits with their aroma Bouquets of dill were often carried again for fertility reasons and after the ceremony the dill was eaten to encourage lust

We Do RedesignsNew JewelleryFull Service Repair

Locally Owned amp Operated Since 1948

1126 Blanshard Street Victoria bull 2504181126 bull wwwvanislejewellersca

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding Choosing a gown and a colour that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year thatrsquos a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years and many people have their own stories of garish gowns theyrsquove been asked to don for a wedding Some have said that brides intentionally choose

ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure theyrsquore not outshined come the wedding day Although this may be the case for some most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all And colour scheme is integral in the choice of gown

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features Therefore some experimentation might be necessary to find a colour that is flattering to all and fits with the colour scheme

Depending on hair colour and skin shade there are many flattering hues available for gowns When making this decision consider bridesmaidsrsquo ethnicity and skin tone

Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-coloured gowns including silver gold purple and salmon Very pale

colours may be daring and conspicuous

Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colours including red navy peach and fuchsia However avoid colours in light yellow aqua gray taupe or mint which may make the bridesmaid look washed out

Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly coloured gowns in jewel tones Pastels may work but be careful about those depending on hair colour Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair Yellow and green may not work with a fair brunette Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde

Once a colour is chosen brides also need to consider the season Certain colours may look out of place depending on the season For example an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding Similarly russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring

wedding Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues greens pinks and purples for their weddings simply because those colours transcend the seasons

After colours are worked out the style of the gown deserves consideration Because not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes many brides are now open to selecting a colour and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style This way someone who is busty wonrsquot feel uncomfortable in strapless and someone who is thin wonrsquot be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable and different styles can help achieve this

Making the effort to choose a gown colour and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding

CHOOSING A hUE FOR THEbridesmaid gowns

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features

12 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Exterior Romanesque architecture with interior wood paneling and stunning

stained glass provides a rich welcoming place to capture special moments

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

A unique venue for photographers

Photo by Kuniophotography

La MamaMATERNITY amp MORE

Because Yoursquore Expecting

25038839771010 Broad Street Victoria

p g

toria

Style

wwwlamamamaternitycomns s AA ee iinin iiieeAvailalablbleeaSaSaSatttiinn n GGoGoGoG wwnnnssattt ww bSSS iiniiilaaaaiinaaat Avoo boo leAt v ll llt GGGG AAAvnss nnSaSaatttiinn n eeailalablleeaww iinin iiSSS Avoooo vai ett Availl bllAvai b e iiiiiitt MM CoCololoourursuuooullllCCMultitiplple e CCeelleelMultit p CCngg o oorrLoLLoL n r ShShShhororrrrtt pngg MMM rshhh lttrtt uuuMuSSS ip oooooooooo o oooooo ppgg eeh tt ll lllllhh t tMMMultitiplple eeellipnggn urursuhhhororrtt loloooolrrr LoLLo CoCoCCSSSoo o rsooooooo t eeet lt llllllllhh itt

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

250 479 0803Royal Oak Shopping Centre

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

We look forward to

meeting you

The magic doesnrsquot

end witha wedding

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

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Serving Your Community for 20 Years

Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

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In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

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bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

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Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

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On-Location bull In-Studio

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

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bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

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Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

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BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

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US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

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Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

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Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

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Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

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24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 5: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 5

Here are some other tips that can lead to great photos

bull Find a photographer who fits your style If yoursquore a quirky couple go with a quirky photographer If yoursquore reserved and a follow-the-book type of couple then select a more traditional photographer Some photographers out there forget this is your moment and want to impart their idea of what you want Make sure he or she takes your ideas into consideration

bull Select a photographer who is open to different shoot locations and brainstorming Some of the best photos occur in natural settings where things arenrsquot entirely planned If a photographer simply works out of a studio you may want to select one who has more free reign with different locales

bull Choose your location wisely Certain locations will stand out in your minds because they are visually stunning or are special places where you have spent moments as a couple By choosing a place that offers a personal connection therersquos a good chance yoursquoll appreciate the photos in the long run Also remember that unplanned stops may offer a great background for the image Be open to the unexpected

bull Try random poses and some candid shots Although you might have a vision of the perfect photo in your mind experimenting with different ideas can sometimes lead to a great photo you really love Expect to take your share of kissing nose-touching and portrait shots But some fun poses such as running or jumping (or rolling around on a beach full of waves) can produce candid shots that are truly masterpieces Remember sometimes photographers will pose you in positions that seem a bit awkward but this is to get the best lines of the body and flattering images

bull Choose clothing that fits the mood If time and budget allows have several different wardrobe changes so that you can see which outfits work and which ones donrsquot A formal outfit comfortable street clothes something beachy or clothing that fits with your interests (such as polo or baseball) can make for interesting engagement photos Avoid clothing that is too trendy or busy which may take away from the actual images in the long run Plus you donrsquot want to look back at these photos in the future and say ldquoWhat was I thinkingrdquo Avoid matchy-matchy though If you are dressed alike you may appear to be trying too hard

Ask aboutour weddingspecials

1195 Fort Street Victoria | wwwacademysecretcomWe would also like to introduce our newest team member Dr Marie-Louise Wessels MBChB CCFB MD

Call Academy Spa at (250) 385-6552and ask about our wedding specials

Botox bull Dermal Fillers bull SmartSkin Laser bull Teeth Whitening

Make sure yourwedding starts smoothly

PHARMASAVEreg

L I V E W E L L W I T H

BROADMEAD VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE310-777 Royal Oak Drive bull 250-727-3505

wwwpharmasavebroadmeadcom

Call to book your appointment to experience a YOUNG BLOOD Mineral Cosmetic Make-over with make-up artist Adrienne

A Glamorous LookFor Your Wedding

Serving Your Community for 20 Years

IS A WEDDING lOAN FOR YOU

Although a wedding loan may enable you to have the wedding of your dreams it comes with a steep cost mdash starting out your new life together with a considerable amount of debt

Engaged couples about to take a trip down the aisle are increasingly choosing to pay for the wedding themselves Where it used to be tradition for the bridersquos parents to handle the bill for the occasion today the responsibility for funding has largely fallen into the hands of the prospective bride and groom To meet the financial demands of the modern wedding some individuals turn to loans for financing some or all of the wedding You may question whether this is a good idea

As with any situation there are pros and cons The same can be said about a wedding loan The following are some factors you will need to consider before taking out a loan

One of the most important things to realize is that a wedding loan like any loan will need to be paid back and interest fees will be included What that means is that by the end of the payback period you will have spent several thousand dollars more on the loans than the original principal amount when interest is added in If yoursquore taking out a loan because yoursquove already gone above budget on wedding expenses a loan may push that budget even further into the red

That being said there are some instances where a loan may be an option that works for a couple For example couples who anticipate considerable monetary gifts from guests attending the wedding can offset the cost of the loan with those gifts Some couples might begin their professional careers after their wedding which will increase their salary enough to repay the loan quickly Others may actually have the money for the wedding but want to use a loan as a way to establish strong joint credit as a new couple

However many couples take out loans because they simply cannot afford their dream wedding In a world where many people already live beyond their means mdash

financing cars homes retail purchases mdash a wedding loan may just be another shovelful of soil on a financial grave The consensus among financial experts is that it is better to scale back the wedding or postpone it until you can save money the old-fashioned way instead of taking out a loan

But if a loan seems the only option here are some tips

Shop around on a wedding loan just as with any other loan Find the best rates and terms before settling on a lender

Decide how much you can afford to pay back within 2 to 3 years and how much the monthly payment will be Then take out the loan only in that amount

Figure out which portions of the wedding can be scaled back to make the finances work

See if options like refinancing a home or borrowing from family would be better than taking out a loan

Look at banks credit unions and even programs sponsored through your employer to compare rates on loans

Wedding loans may be secured or unsecured A home or car can serve as a form of security in a secured loan Unsecured wedding loans do not require a form of security

Personal loans like wedding loans generally have low annual percentage rates It may be worth it to take out the loan rather than using a credit card for financing because the cardrsquos rates could be double

Keep in mind that a wedding loan mdash even if it comes at a low interest rate mdash means yoursquore starting out your new life together with a large amount of debt for an event that lasts one day Think about whether the wedding of your dreams is worth using that joint checking account to pay off months of wedding debt

6 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

BEAUFORTHEIGHTSAT M O U N T WA S H I N G T O N

alpine cabins

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 7

Some might say a long celebrity marriage is one that endures the duration of the newly betrothedrsquos trip down the aisle Wersquove seen Britney Spears dissolve a marriage after 55 hours and Kim Kardashian call it quits after 72 days It seems even money canrsquot buy matrimonial happiness

But some couples have been together for 50 60 years and say theyrsquore still as much in love as they were the day they spoke their ldquoI dosrdquo What do they know that others do not

According to clinical psychologist and relationship guru Dr Phil McGraw ldquoWe all need to be flexible and to compromise in marriage but yoursquove got to be true to your core traits and characteristics what I call your authentic selfrdquo Some couples enter a relationship projecting a persona they believe the other person wants mdash one that really isnrsquot what theyrsquore all about This could be a woman trying to fill the role of her husbandrsquos nurturing mom or a guy playing the protector to his wife In reality marriage is more of a partnership and truth and trust are often at the basis of good marriages

There are many other ldquosecretsrdquo that marriage experts will offer to couples seeking the magic formula Whether yoursquore pondering marriage or have already tied the knot consider the following advice to make a marriage endure for the long haul

bull Therersquos no such thing as the perfect marriage Some couples create an image of what they think marriage is supposed to be and that image that often goes ldquopoofrdquo once reality sets in Even soulmates are bound to frustrate or irritate one another from time to time

bull Couples should express their frustrations Bottling up frustrations can eat at a person and eventually destroy a marriage Talking about the things that are bothering you with your partner opens up a discussion and can help you work through things

bull Divorce should not be seen as a viable option Couples who want to bail on the marriage at every turn could be directing their energy toward divorce as the only solution instead of discovering ways to remove the cause of strife Divorce can sometimes be the easy way out when you think about the work that goes into keeping a marriage working Experts say that there are a few issues like adultery abuse and drugalcohol addiction that may be reasonable catalysts for divorce if personal safety and sanity is being compromised

bull Make time for romance Itrsquos easily said but not so easily done Too often married couples forget what it was like to date when all of their attention was spent on each other instead of the house kids work etc Today there seems to be even more distractions from e-mails to texts to pressure and obligations at the office Happy couples find the time to spend quality time with their spouses mdash even if thatrsquos only 10 minutes of alone time a day

bull Put ldquowerdquo first Many people operate on a ldquomerdquo mentality When yoursquore part of a couple give more to your spouse than you take If he or she is doing the same yoursquore working collectively for the benefit of the marriage instead of yourselves

bull Respect each other Often couples having troubles realize they treat strangers better than they treat each other Would you use the insults or unflattering terms that you sometimes throw at your spouse with a complete stranger Probably not Good marriages are based on a foundation of respect and love Itrsquos easy to lose feelings of love if the respect is gone

Couples can realize that there are some thorns that come with the roses of marriage and staying happy together does take work for it to all be worth it

SecretsTO A lONG amp hAPPy MARRIAGE

WEDDING Those thinking about tying the knot in the months to come may be discouraged by how expensive weddings can be But with a little ingenuity and a hands-on approach couples can have a wedding that is inexpensive and memorable at the same time

Weddingbells magazine states that the average cost for a wedding in Canada is $23330 up from $20129 in 2010

According to CostofWeddingcom on average US couples spend $26542 for their weddings

These amounts do not include the cost of an engagement ring or wedding bands With such a high pricetag some couples may wonder if they can afford their dream wedding or if there are ways to cut costs Having a backyard DIY wedding can be the answer

Although some may envision a backyard wedding with picnic benches and Dad at the grill it can be a much classier affair than that Smart couples are realizing that the money they would normally spend on a big wedding at an outside venue can be put to better use either through buying a new home or fixing up one they may already own

do-it-yourselfgetting startedA DIY wedding is one that will take much more work than simply hiring vendors and leaving the details to them But the money saved with sweat equity can be substantial A well-planned wedding is the best start Grab a notebook and start making lists of all the things you will need

bull locationbull tables and chairsbull linensbull foodbull silverware and glasswarebull invitationsbull photographybull musicbull officiantbull musicbull centerpieces and other deacutecorbull cake or dessertbull lightingbull attire bull flowers

8 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

ldquoThe best time to do your hair trial is when you try your dress on when it arrives You

can see the whole beautiful picture in the mirror as you

choose your hair accessories veil and jewellery and imag-

ine how amazing you will look on your wedding dayrdquo

ndash The Bridersquos Closet

2243 Beacon Ave Sidney BC 250-656-0275 wwwmarywinspearca

Planning a wedding reception dinner dance concert or other special event Need to accomodate up to 800 guests You can really throw a party in our fully accessible 8100 square foot space at Bodine Family Hall

bull Across the street from Mary Winspear Centre for convenient accommodation of your Wedding Guests and Familybull Pet Friendlybull Air Conditionedbull Fridge amp Microwavebull Free High Speed Internetbull All King or Queen Pillow Top Bedsbull Whirlpool sauna fi tness equipmentbull Group Rates and Family Suites Available

Closest Best Westernto Victoria International

Airport amp BC Ferries

Each Best Westernreg Branded Hotel is independently Owned and Operated Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International Inc copy2012 Best Western International Inc All rights reserved

Best Western PLUSEmerald Isle Motor Inn

2306 Beacon Ave Sidney BC2506564441 bull 18003153377

bwemeraldislecom

Sidney-by-the-Sea

Great Food AnytimeWhether itrsquos a light

meal at middayan afternoon snack or

a hearty dinnerSmittyrsquos satisfi es

every timeServing great food in Canada since 1960

in Sidney since 1985

250-656-24232306 Beacon Ave in Sidney(Next to the Best Western PLUS

Emerald Isle)

Sid b th S

bull 18rsquo vaulted ceiling bull Beautiful Ambiencebull Polished flooring bull Raised performance stagebull 12x12 drop screen and state of the art sound amp lighting systemsbull Natural light amp fresh sea air from large roll up doors that open to an adjoining 5000 foot outdoor patio complete with tentsbull FREE onsite parking and ideally located a short walk to nearby accomodations and area attractions

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 9

Many items necessary for a wedding can be bought in advance Some couples find that purchasing low-cost items at discount stores turns out to be less expensive than renting For example inexpensive glasses and silverware can be bought at dollar stores or chains like Ikea Later on these items can be kept sold or even donated to shelters

Tablecloths donrsquot have to be traditional It may be less expensive to purchase pieces of fabric from a fabric store and dress them up yourself Candles can be stockpiled relatively easy and provide a very affordable means of ambient light Plan out centerpiece ideas and figure out which components can be bought and stored Then items can be assembled at leisure Wedding stationery is one thing that will have to be bought well in advance so there will be time enough to

print save-the-date invitations and response cards as well as mail them

An informal wedding may mean couples can get simple attire Buying off the rack may mean a smaller pricetag for gowns Gentleman may be fine with sportcoats and slacks Purchase wardrobe essentials several months in advance to be sure there will be time for alterations if necessary

Enlist the help of family and friends to get many of the tasks completed Upon asking many couples find members of the family who have skills in certain areas which can be tapped for the wedding such as a gourmet chef a disc jockey a photographer or even someone who can officiate the vows Having these people on board means a great reduction in costs

work in advanceBecause couples will be doing the work themselves itrsquos best to start several days in advance of the wedding (weather permitting) Be sure the grounds are well groomed and landscaped Ensure there are no tripping hazards and that there is a sturdy surface for placing tables or creating a dance floor

It may pay to ask an electrician or someone who dabbles in electric work to help string some lights to better illuminate the area especially for when the sun goes down

Set up the tables and chairs to finalize placement the day before Figure out where the ceremony will take place A small arbor can mark the area and make a nice photo backdrop Dress the tables with linens and settings the morning of the wedding

One splurge couples may want to make is hiring a waitstaff to help set up food service areas serve as bartenders and clear away dishes and other messes This way the bride and groom can mingle with guests

readying the venueHere are some other ways to save money on DIY weddings

bull Fruit is less expensive than flowers for centerpieces

bull Include postcard response cards in wedding invites The postage is less and you donrsquot have to spend money on an extra envelope

bull Be sure to check with your town if you need a permit or variance for having so many cars parked by the house in the event of a backyard wedding Otherwise you could be facing a fine

bull Many different foods can be cooked in

advance and frozen instead of hiring a catering service

bull Consider favours that also double as table centerpieces

bull Bouquets can easily be made with store-bought flowers some floral tape and decorative ribbon

bull Restrict the bar to wine and beer and yoursquoll save money on expensive liquors

A DIY wedding can be a fun memorable event that costs a couple a fraction of what it would be to have it held at an expensive location

other tips amp tricks

You Deserve the Best279 Selby Street Nanaimo 250-753-4975

wwwthebridesclosetcom

hellipand create moments to treasure by placing the utmost emphasis ongenuine hospitality Our experienced catering staff will coordinate your special day with caring personalized service We offer packages that cover everything

from a cocktail hour to a formal buffet Ask about our exclusive banquet facilitiesJust tell us your vision and wersquoll combine all the ingredients to bring it to life

Intimate gatherings of 50 to Gala events of 300

We invite you to book a complimentary consultation Just call 2508183226

Innovations Cateringwwwinnovationscateringcom

Every couple wants their wedding to be memorable The goal of planning a wedding is to create an experience that everyone will remember for years to come For some couples a theme wedding is the best way to accomplish just that

When it comes time to select a theme the day the wedding takes place may dictate the theme For example if the wedding

takes place on Halloween the ideas for the theme are easy Many other couples choose a theme that highlights a specific interest or hobby or something that is dear to them Here are some popular wedding themes

bull Holiday The Christmas season lends itself well to wedding planning The colours (red green gold) are already established and most churches and buildings are already decked out in holiday finery cutting down on the amount of flowers and embellishments couples need Because the holiday season is so busy and a popular time for socializing couples who want to tie the knot during this time of year should send save-the-date cards well in advance Another option is to have a ldquoChristmas in Julyrdquo wedding featuring the same holiday themes but without the hectic nature of the holiday season

bull Vegas Couples who want to tie the knot in Las Vegas but want to ensure all their loved ones can attend can recreate the magic of Vegas wherever they may be Casino-inspired games and big buffet meals can make guests feel like they have stepped into a casino on the famed Vegas strip In addition an Elvis impersonator is essential to a Vegas wedding

bull TV show Some couples elevate certain television shows to cult status Whether

itrsquos ldquoFriendsrdquo or ldquoStar Trekrdquo popular television shows have been transformed into festive wedding themes Whether the idea is to go daring and exchange vows in costume or simply name reception tables according to characters or show locations couples can include a little television fun into the event

bull Fairytale Many men and women envision a fairytale wedding complete with horse-drawn carriage and the ldquohappily ever afterrdquo This is what makes Disney properties as well as the various castles around the world popular backdrops for wedding events Those planning a fairytale wedding need only look to favourite stories or movies for their inspiration

bull Interest or passion Love to climb mountains Avid about scuba diving Couples who share a particular interest can include elements of this sport or hobby into their wedding Invitations and deacutecor can hint at the theme and then special activities can further enhance it Fish bowls as centerpieces may call to mind underwater adventures while surfboard-shaped invites may set the scene for a beachside party

Theme weddings can add an extra spice to the festivities and incorporate couplesrsquo interests into the event mdash making it even more special

CAN ADD Up TO ExTRA FUN

WEDDING

A masquerade theme might be an entertaining theme for a couplersquos nuptials

themes10 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

I dowant to look amp

feel my radiant best on this day of days

Rejuvenating spa treatments and group celebrations

help you unwind and prepare for your

special day

2503913920 santespavictoriacom

1999 Country Club WayVictoria BC

We offer couples one hour in the Castle for a ceremony and photo session Say your

vows in front of one of the fabulous fireplaces then have photographs

taken throughout the Castle

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

Renew your vows or elope

Photo by Kuniophotography

Wedding Receptions and Ceremonies

Banquet Room and Outdoor Deck Overlook Golf Course

Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club1050 McTavish Road Sidney2506563136 wwwglenmeadowsbcca

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 11

Chances are those who have attended a wedding have witnessed some popular traditions The bride wears a veil a court of wedding attendants accompanies the bride and groom and birdseed rice or flower petals are tossed But have you ever wondered why Wedding customs are ripe with tradition and harken back to days when superstition and myth often ruled the day

Throwing rice Today it has become de rigueur to blow bubbles toss birdseed or release doves when the bride and groom leave the house of worship newly betrothed Thatrsquos because savvy individuals found that raw rice can pose a hazard to birds pecking in the area However rice throwing is an old custom that dates back to the Middle Ages when wheat or rice where thrown to symbolize fertility for the couple

Bridesmaids There may be arguments over dresses and how many bridesmaids to have in a wedding party now but in ancient times it was ldquothe more the merrierrdquo Thatrsquos because bridesmaids were another measure to keep the bride safe against evil spirits Essentially the bridesmaids were decoys for the spirits mdash dressing like the bride to confuse the spirits or maybe help deter them to leave the bride be

Wedding rings Wearing of wedding rings dates back to ancient Egypt The round shape of a ring symbolizes eternal love The ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it is believed this finger has a blood vessel that goes directly to the heart

Wedding cake The traditional wedding cake evolved from Roman times when the cake was originally made from wheat It was broken over the bridersquos head to ensure fertility All of the guests eat a piece for good luck Single women used to place a piece of wedding cake under their pillows in the hopes of finding their own husbands

Father accompanying the bride This tradition symbolizes that the bridersquos father endorses the choice in husbands and is presenting his daughter as a pure bride to that man

Kissing the bride In older times a kiss symbolized a legal bond Therefore the bride and groom kissed to seal the deal on their betrothal

Origins of bridal customs

There are many traditions surrounding a wedding that people simply accept but understanding their origins can make the ceremony more meaningful

Bouquet Nowadays the bride carries a beautiful bouquet of flowers But the purpose of the bouquet held different meanings in the past Saracen brides carried orange blossoms for fertility Others carried a combination of herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits with their aroma Bouquets of dill were often carried again for fertility reasons and after the ceremony the dill was eaten to encourage lust

We Do RedesignsNew JewelleryFull Service Repair

Locally Owned amp Operated Since 1948

1126 Blanshard Street Victoria bull 2504181126 bull wwwvanislejewellersca

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding Choosing a gown and a colour that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year thatrsquos a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years and many people have their own stories of garish gowns theyrsquove been asked to don for a wedding Some have said that brides intentionally choose

ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure theyrsquore not outshined come the wedding day Although this may be the case for some most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all And colour scheme is integral in the choice of gown

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features Therefore some experimentation might be necessary to find a colour that is flattering to all and fits with the colour scheme

Depending on hair colour and skin shade there are many flattering hues available for gowns When making this decision consider bridesmaidsrsquo ethnicity and skin tone

Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-coloured gowns including silver gold purple and salmon Very pale

colours may be daring and conspicuous

Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colours including red navy peach and fuchsia However avoid colours in light yellow aqua gray taupe or mint which may make the bridesmaid look washed out

Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly coloured gowns in jewel tones Pastels may work but be careful about those depending on hair colour Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair Yellow and green may not work with a fair brunette Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde

Once a colour is chosen brides also need to consider the season Certain colours may look out of place depending on the season For example an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding Similarly russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring

wedding Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues greens pinks and purples for their weddings simply because those colours transcend the seasons

After colours are worked out the style of the gown deserves consideration Because not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes many brides are now open to selecting a colour and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style This way someone who is busty wonrsquot feel uncomfortable in strapless and someone who is thin wonrsquot be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable and different styles can help achieve this

Making the effort to choose a gown colour and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding

CHOOSING A hUE FOR THEbridesmaid gowns

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features

12 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Exterior Romanesque architecture with interior wood paneling and stunning

stained glass provides a rich welcoming place to capture special moments

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

A unique venue for photographers

Photo by Kuniophotography

La MamaMATERNITY amp MORE

Because Yoursquore Expecting

25038839771010 Broad Street Victoria

p g

toria

Style

wwwlamamamaternitycomns s AA ee iinin iiieeAvailalablbleeaSaSaSatttiinn n GGoGoGoG wwnnnssattt ww bSSS iiniiilaaaaiinaaat Avoo boo leAt v ll llt GGGG AAAvnss nnSaSaatttiinn n eeailalablleeaww iinin iiSSS Avoooo vai ett Availl bllAvai b e iiiiiitt MM CoCololoourursuuooullllCCMultitiplple e CCeelleelMultit p CCngg o oorrLoLLoL n r ShShShhororrrrtt pngg MMM rshhh lttrtt uuuMuSSS ip oooooooooo o oooooo ppgg eeh tt ll lllllhh t tMMMultitiplple eeellipnggn urursuhhhororrtt loloooolrrr LoLLo CoCoCCSSSoo o rsooooooo t eeet lt llllllllhh itt

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

250 479 0803Royal Oak Shopping Centre

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

We look forward to

meeting you

The magic doesnrsquot

end witha wedding

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

2 FOR 1 SMOOTHIESALL DAY

GRAND OPENINGSaturday January 14th

We would like to invite you to the Grand Opening of Booster Juicersquos latest Premium Juice and Smoothie Bar Come join us for the best tasting Smoothies free samples hot food and more

Booster Juice Cook Street Village240 Cook Street

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PHARMASAVEreg

L I V E W E L L W I T H

BROADMEAD VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE310-777 Royal Oak Drive bull 250-727-3505

wwwpharmasavebroadmeadcom

Serving Your Community for 20 Years

Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Call Direct 250-897-9109 Email infoislandphotoboothcom

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

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rodcointeriorsshawcaOne stop shopping for your commercial and residential decorating needs

In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

mrcitrusolivecom bull wwwcitrusocom250 891 5448

Voted Best Carpet Cleaning Company 4 Years in a Row

With $198 or moreFROM THE BANK OF CITRUS-O

Receive $50 off your Carpet Cleaningwith purchase of $198 or more

Present this coupon at time of serviceOffer expires August 1 2012$50 $50

Heirloom PackagingPreserve your precious gown for life

Let us make sure it stays that wayLL

You spend time energy and money choosing your perfect dress for your perfect day

Esquimalt Plaza Dry Cleaning250 3868641 1 153 Esquimalt RoadThe 1 Drycleaner for your treasured gown

I can help

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

250-370-1818 bull 770 Spruce Avenue wwwtrianglehealingproductscom

Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

products from all over the GlobeRadiant Health Sauna withCarbonFlowtrade heating - the latest far-infrared technology from Japan - at a price lower than most competitors

Titanium Non-Stick Cookware Set

We now have 100 Latex natural mattresses mattress pads amp pillows

BlendTec Total Blender

GreenStarJuicer

NewlywedsRepair It Right

Get the job done properly the firsttime when you call an experienced professional We guarantee every

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Licensed bull Bonded bull Insured bull WorkSafe

WE DObull Service Calls bull Renovations

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Escape to a world of authentic charm and old-fashioned hospitality

Campbell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287bell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287

Private Hot Tubs | Oceanfront Cozy Cabins

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

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Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

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wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

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24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 6: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

IS A WEDDING lOAN FOR YOU

Although a wedding loan may enable you to have the wedding of your dreams it comes with a steep cost mdash starting out your new life together with a considerable amount of debt

Engaged couples about to take a trip down the aisle are increasingly choosing to pay for the wedding themselves Where it used to be tradition for the bridersquos parents to handle the bill for the occasion today the responsibility for funding has largely fallen into the hands of the prospective bride and groom To meet the financial demands of the modern wedding some individuals turn to loans for financing some or all of the wedding You may question whether this is a good idea

As with any situation there are pros and cons The same can be said about a wedding loan The following are some factors you will need to consider before taking out a loan

One of the most important things to realize is that a wedding loan like any loan will need to be paid back and interest fees will be included What that means is that by the end of the payback period you will have spent several thousand dollars more on the loans than the original principal amount when interest is added in If yoursquore taking out a loan because yoursquove already gone above budget on wedding expenses a loan may push that budget even further into the red

That being said there are some instances where a loan may be an option that works for a couple For example couples who anticipate considerable monetary gifts from guests attending the wedding can offset the cost of the loan with those gifts Some couples might begin their professional careers after their wedding which will increase their salary enough to repay the loan quickly Others may actually have the money for the wedding but want to use a loan as a way to establish strong joint credit as a new couple

However many couples take out loans because they simply cannot afford their dream wedding In a world where many people already live beyond their means mdash

financing cars homes retail purchases mdash a wedding loan may just be another shovelful of soil on a financial grave The consensus among financial experts is that it is better to scale back the wedding or postpone it until you can save money the old-fashioned way instead of taking out a loan

But if a loan seems the only option here are some tips

Shop around on a wedding loan just as with any other loan Find the best rates and terms before settling on a lender

Decide how much you can afford to pay back within 2 to 3 years and how much the monthly payment will be Then take out the loan only in that amount

Figure out which portions of the wedding can be scaled back to make the finances work

See if options like refinancing a home or borrowing from family would be better than taking out a loan

Look at banks credit unions and even programs sponsored through your employer to compare rates on loans

Wedding loans may be secured or unsecured A home or car can serve as a form of security in a secured loan Unsecured wedding loans do not require a form of security

Personal loans like wedding loans generally have low annual percentage rates It may be worth it to take out the loan rather than using a credit card for financing because the cardrsquos rates could be double

Keep in mind that a wedding loan mdash even if it comes at a low interest rate mdash means yoursquore starting out your new life together with a large amount of debt for an event that lasts one day Think about whether the wedding of your dreams is worth using that joint checking account to pay off months of wedding debt

6 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

BEAUFORTHEIGHTSAT M O U N T WA S H I N G T O N

alpine cabins

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 7

Some might say a long celebrity marriage is one that endures the duration of the newly betrothedrsquos trip down the aisle Wersquove seen Britney Spears dissolve a marriage after 55 hours and Kim Kardashian call it quits after 72 days It seems even money canrsquot buy matrimonial happiness

But some couples have been together for 50 60 years and say theyrsquore still as much in love as they were the day they spoke their ldquoI dosrdquo What do they know that others do not

According to clinical psychologist and relationship guru Dr Phil McGraw ldquoWe all need to be flexible and to compromise in marriage but yoursquove got to be true to your core traits and characteristics what I call your authentic selfrdquo Some couples enter a relationship projecting a persona they believe the other person wants mdash one that really isnrsquot what theyrsquore all about This could be a woman trying to fill the role of her husbandrsquos nurturing mom or a guy playing the protector to his wife In reality marriage is more of a partnership and truth and trust are often at the basis of good marriages

There are many other ldquosecretsrdquo that marriage experts will offer to couples seeking the magic formula Whether yoursquore pondering marriage or have already tied the knot consider the following advice to make a marriage endure for the long haul

bull Therersquos no such thing as the perfect marriage Some couples create an image of what they think marriage is supposed to be and that image that often goes ldquopoofrdquo once reality sets in Even soulmates are bound to frustrate or irritate one another from time to time

bull Couples should express their frustrations Bottling up frustrations can eat at a person and eventually destroy a marriage Talking about the things that are bothering you with your partner opens up a discussion and can help you work through things

bull Divorce should not be seen as a viable option Couples who want to bail on the marriage at every turn could be directing their energy toward divorce as the only solution instead of discovering ways to remove the cause of strife Divorce can sometimes be the easy way out when you think about the work that goes into keeping a marriage working Experts say that there are a few issues like adultery abuse and drugalcohol addiction that may be reasonable catalysts for divorce if personal safety and sanity is being compromised

bull Make time for romance Itrsquos easily said but not so easily done Too often married couples forget what it was like to date when all of their attention was spent on each other instead of the house kids work etc Today there seems to be even more distractions from e-mails to texts to pressure and obligations at the office Happy couples find the time to spend quality time with their spouses mdash even if thatrsquos only 10 minutes of alone time a day

bull Put ldquowerdquo first Many people operate on a ldquomerdquo mentality When yoursquore part of a couple give more to your spouse than you take If he or she is doing the same yoursquore working collectively for the benefit of the marriage instead of yourselves

bull Respect each other Often couples having troubles realize they treat strangers better than they treat each other Would you use the insults or unflattering terms that you sometimes throw at your spouse with a complete stranger Probably not Good marriages are based on a foundation of respect and love Itrsquos easy to lose feelings of love if the respect is gone

Couples can realize that there are some thorns that come with the roses of marriage and staying happy together does take work for it to all be worth it

SecretsTO A lONG amp hAPPy MARRIAGE

WEDDING Those thinking about tying the knot in the months to come may be discouraged by how expensive weddings can be But with a little ingenuity and a hands-on approach couples can have a wedding that is inexpensive and memorable at the same time

Weddingbells magazine states that the average cost for a wedding in Canada is $23330 up from $20129 in 2010

According to CostofWeddingcom on average US couples spend $26542 for their weddings

These amounts do not include the cost of an engagement ring or wedding bands With such a high pricetag some couples may wonder if they can afford their dream wedding or if there are ways to cut costs Having a backyard DIY wedding can be the answer

Although some may envision a backyard wedding with picnic benches and Dad at the grill it can be a much classier affair than that Smart couples are realizing that the money they would normally spend on a big wedding at an outside venue can be put to better use either through buying a new home or fixing up one they may already own

do-it-yourselfgetting startedA DIY wedding is one that will take much more work than simply hiring vendors and leaving the details to them But the money saved with sweat equity can be substantial A well-planned wedding is the best start Grab a notebook and start making lists of all the things you will need

bull locationbull tables and chairsbull linensbull foodbull silverware and glasswarebull invitationsbull photographybull musicbull officiantbull musicbull centerpieces and other deacutecorbull cake or dessertbull lightingbull attire bull flowers

8 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

ldquoThe best time to do your hair trial is when you try your dress on when it arrives You

can see the whole beautiful picture in the mirror as you

choose your hair accessories veil and jewellery and imag-

ine how amazing you will look on your wedding dayrdquo

ndash The Bridersquos Closet

2243 Beacon Ave Sidney BC 250-656-0275 wwwmarywinspearca

Planning a wedding reception dinner dance concert or other special event Need to accomodate up to 800 guests You can really throw a party in our fully accessible 8100 square foot space at Bodine Family Hall

bull Across the street from Mary Winspear Centre for convenient accommodation of your Wedding Guests and Familybull Pet Friendlybull Air Conditionedbull Fridge amp Microwavebull Free High Speed Internetbull All King or Queen Pillow Top Bedsbull Whirlpool sauna fi tness equipmentbull Group Rates and Family Suites Available

Closest Best Westernto Victoria International

Airport amp BC Ferries

Each Best Westernreg Branded Hotel is independently Owned and Operated Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International Inc copy2012 Best Western International Inc All rights reserved

Best Western PLUSEmerald Isle Motor Inn

2306 Beacon Ave Sidney BC2506564441 bull 18003153377

bwemeraldislecom

Sidney-by-the-Sea

Great Food AnytimeWhether itrsquos a light

meal at middayan afternoon snack or

a hearty dinnerSmittyrsquos satisfi es

every timeServing great food in Canada since 1960

in Sidney since 1985

250-656-24232306 Beacon Ave in Sidney(Next to the Best Western PLUS

Emerald Isle)

Sid b th S

bull 18rsquo vaulted ceiling bull Beautiful Ambiencebull Polished flooring bull Raised performance stagebull 12x12 drop screen and state of the art sound amp lighting systemsbull Natural light amp fresh sea air from large roll up doors that open to an adjoining 5000 foot outdoor patio complete with tentsbull FREE onsite parking and ideally located a short walk to nearby accomodations and area attractions

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 9

Many items necessary for a wedding can be bought in advance Some couples find that purchasing low-cost items at discount stores turns out to be less expensive than renting For example inexpensive glasses and silverware can be bought at dollar stores or chains like Ikea Later on these items can be kept sold or even donated to shelters

Tablecloths donrsquot have to be traditional It may be less expensive to purchase pieces of fabric from a fabric store and dress them up yourself Candles can be stockpiled relatively easy and provide a very affordable means of ambient light Plan out centerpiece ideas and figure out which components can be bought and stored Then items can be assembled at leisure Wedding stationery is one thing that will have to be bought well in advance so there will be time enough to

print save-the-date invitations and response cards as well as mail them

An informal wedding may mean couples can get simple attire Buying off the rack may mean a smaller pricetag for gowns Gentleman may be fine with sportcoats and slacks Purchase wardrobe essentials several months in advance to be sure there will be time for alterations if necessary

Enlist the help of family and friends to get many of the tasks completed Upon asking many couples find members of the family who have skills in certain areas which can be tapped for the wedding such as a gourmet chef a disc jockey a photographer or even someone who can officiate the vows Having these people on board means a great reduction in costs

work in advanceBecause couples will be doing the work themselves itrsquos best to start several days in advance of the wedding (weather permitting) Be sure the grounds are well groomed and landscaped Ensure there are no tripping hazards and that there is a sturdy surface for placing tables or creating a dance floor

It may pay to ask an electrician or someone who dabbles in electric work to help string some lights to better illuminate the area especially for when the sun goes down

Set up the tables and chairs to finalize placement the day before Figure out where the ceremony will take place A small arbor can mark the area and make a nice photo backdrop Dress the tables with linens and settings the morning of the wedding

One splurge couples may want to make is hiring a waitstaff to help set up food service areas serve as bartenders and clear away dishes and other messes This way the bride and groom can mingle with guests

readying the venueHere are some other ways to save money on DIY weddings

bull Fruit is less expensive than flowers for centerpieces

bull Include postcard response cards in wedding invites The postage is less and you donrsquot have to spend money on an extra envelope

bull Be sure to check with your town if you need a permit or variance for having so many cars parked by the house in the event of a backyard wedding Otherwise you could be facing a fine

bull Many different foods can be cooked in

advance and frozen instead of hiring a catering service

bull Consider favours that also double as table centerpieces

bull Bouquets can easily be made with store-bought flowers some floral tape and decorative ribbon

bull Restrict the bar to wine and beer and yoursquoll save money on expensive liquors

A DIY wedding can be a fun memorable event that costs a couple a fraction of what it would be to have it held at an expensive location

other tips amp tricks

You Deserve the Best279 Selby Street Nanaimo 250-753-4975

wwwthebridesclosetcom

hellipand create moments to treasure by placing the utmost emphasis ongenuine hospitality Our experienced catering staff will coordinate your special day with caring personalized service We offer packages that cover everything

from a cocktail hour to a formal buffet Ask about our exclusive banquet facilitiesJust tell us your vision and wersquoll combine all the ingredients to bring it to life

Intimate gatherings of 50 to Gala events of 300

We invite you to book a complimentary consultation Just call 2508183226

Innovations Cateringwwwinnovationscateringcom

Every couple wants their wedding to be memorable The goal of planning a wedding is to create an experience that everyone will remember for years to come For some couples a theme wedding is the best way to accomplish just that

When it comes time to select a theme the day the wedding takes place may dictate the theme For example if the wedding

takes place on Halloween the ideas for the theme are easy Many other couples choose a theme that highlights a specific interest or hobby or something that is dear to them Here are some popular wedding themes

bull Holiday The Christmas season lends itself well to wedding planning The colours (red green gold) are already established and most churches and buildings are already decked out in holiday finery cutting down on the amount of flowers and embellishments couples need Because the holiday season is so busy and a popular time for socializing couples who want to tie the knot during this time of year should send save-the-date cards well in advance Another option is to have a ldquoChristmas in Julyrdquo wedding featuring the same holiday themes but without the hectic nature of the holiday season

bull Vegas Couples who want to tie the knot in Las Vegas but want to ensure all their loved ones can attend can recreate the magic of Vegas wherever they may be Casino-inspired games and big buffet meals can make guests feel like they have stepped into a casino on the famed Vegas strip In addition an Elvis impersonator is essential to a Vegas wedding

bull TV show Some couples elevate certain television shows to cult status Whether

itrsquos ldquoFriendsrdquo or ldquoStar Trekrdquo popular television shows have been transformed into festive wedding themes Whether the idea is to go daring and exchange vows in costume or simply name reception tables according to characters or show locations couples can include a little television fun into the event

bull Fairytale Many men and women envision a fairytale wedding complete with horse-drawn carriage and the ldquohappily ever afterrdquo This is what makes Disney properties as well as the various castles around the world popular backdrops for wedding events Those planning a fairytale wedding need only look to favourite stories or movies for their inspiration

bull Interest or passion Love to climb mountains Avid about scuba diving Couples who share a particular interest can include elements of this sport or hobby into their wedding Invitations and deacutecor can hint at the theme and then special activities can further enhance it Fish bowls as centerpieces may call to mind underwater adventures while surfboard-shaped invites may set the scene for a beachside party

Theme weddings can add an extra spice to the festivities and incorporate couplesrsquo interests into the event mdash making it even more special

CAN ADD Up TO ExTRA FUN

WEDDING

A masquerade theme might be an entertaining theme for a couplersquos nuptials

themes10 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

I dowant to look amp

feel my radiant best on this day of days

Rejuvenating spa treatments and group celebrations

help you unwind and prepare for your

special day

2503913920 santespavictoriacom

1999 Country Club WayVictoria BC

We offer couples one hour in the Castle for a ceremony and photo session Say your

vows in front of one of the fabulous fireplaces then have photographs

taken throughout the Castle

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

Renew your vows or elope

Photo by Kuniophotography

Wedding Receptions and Ceremonies

Banquet Room and Outdoor Deck Overlook Golf Course

Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club1050 McTavish Road Sidney2506563136 wwwglenmeadowsbcca

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 11

Chances are those who have attended a wedding have witnessed some popular traditions The bride wears a veil a court of wedding attendants accompanies the bride and groom and birdseed rice or flower petals are tossed But have you ever wondered why Wedding customs are ripe with tradition and harken back to days when superstition and myth often ruled the day

Throwing rice Today it has become de rigueur to blow bubbles toss birdseed or release doves when the bride and groom leave the house of worship newly betrothed Thatrsquos because savvy individuals found that raw rice can pose a hazard to birds pecking in the area However rice throwing is an old custom that dates back to the Middle Ages when wheat or rice where thrown to symbolize fertility for the couple

Bridesmaids There may be arguments over dresses and how many bridesmaids to have in a wedding party now but in ancient times it was ldquothe more the merrierrdquo Thatrsquos because bridesmaids were another measure to keep the bride safe against evil spirits Essentially the bridesmaids were decoys for the spirits mdash dressing like the bride to confuse the spirits or maybe help deter them to leave the bride be

Wedding rings Wearing of wedding rings dates back to ancient Egypt The round shape of a ring symbolizes eternal love The ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it is believed this finger has a blood vessel that goes directly to the heart

Wedding cake The traditional wedding cake evolved from Roman times when the cake was originally made from wheat It was broken over the bridersquos head to ensure fertility All of the guests eat a piece for good luck Single women used to place a piece of wedding cake under their pillows in the hopes of finding their own husbands

Father accompanying the bride This tradition symbolizes that the bridersquos father endorses the choice in husbands and is presenting his daughter as a pure bride to that man

Kissing the bride In older times a kiss symbolized a legal bond Therefore the bride and groom kissed to seal the deal on their betrothal

Origins of bridal customs

There are many traditions surrounding a wedding that people simply accept but understanding their origins can make the ceremony more meaningful

Bouquet Nowadays the bride carries a beautiful bouquet of flowers But the purpose of the bouquet held different meanings in the past Saracen brides carried orange blossoms for fertility Others carried a combination of herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits with their aroma Bouquets of dill were often carried again for fertility reasons and after the ceremony the dill was eaten to encourage lust

We Do RedesignsNew JewelleryFull Service Repair

Locally Owned amp Operated Since 1948

1126 Blanshard Street Victoria bull 2504181126 bull wwwvanislejewellersca

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding Choosing a gown and a colour that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year thatrsquos a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years and many people have their own stories of garish gowns theyrsquove been asked to don for a wedding Some have said that brides intentionally choose

ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure theyrsquore not outshined come the wedding day Although this may be the case for some most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all And colour scheme is integral in the choice of gown

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features Therefore some experimentation might be necessary to find a colour that is flattering to all and fits with the colour scheme

Depending on hair colour and skin shade there are many flattering hues available for gowns When making this decision consider bridesmaidsrsquo ethnicity and skin tone

Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-coloured gowns including silver gold purple and salmon Very pale

colours may be daring and conspicuous

Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colours including red navy peach and fuchsia However avoid colours in light yellow aqua gray taupe or mint which may make the bridesmaid look washed out

Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly coloured gowns in jewel tones Pastels may work but be careful about those depending on hair colour Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair Yellow and green may not work with a fair brunette Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde

Once a colour is chosen brides also need to consider the season Certain colours may look out of place depending on the season For example an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding Similarly russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring

wedding Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues greens pinks and purples for their weddings simply because those colours transcend the seasons

After colours are worked out the style of the gown deserves consideration Because not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes many brides are now open to selecting a colour and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style This way someone who is busty wonrsquot feel uncomfortable in strapless and someone who is thin wonrsquot be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable and different styles can help achieve this

Making the effort to choose a gown colour and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding

CHOOSING A hUE FOR THEbridesmaid gowns

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features

12 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Exterior Romanesque architecture with interior wood paneling and stunning

stained glass provides a rich welcoming place to capture special moments

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

A unique venue for photographers

Photo by Kuniophotography

La MamaMATERNITY amp MORE

Because Yoursquore Expecting

25038839771010 Broad Street Victoria

p g

toria

Style

wwwlamamamaternitycomns s AA ee iinin iiieeAvailalablbleeaSaSaSatttiinn n GGoGoGoG wwnnnssattt ww bSSS iiniiilaaaaiinaaat Avoo boo leAt v ll llt GGGG AAAvnss nnSaSaatttiinn n eeailalablleeaww iinin iiSSS Avoooo vai ett Availl bllAvai b e iiiiiitt MM CoCololoourursuuooullllCCMultitiplple e CCeelleelMultit p CCngg o oorrLoLLoL n r ShShShhororrrrtt pngg MMM rshhh lttrtt uuuMuSSS ip oooooooooo o oooooo ppgg eeh tt ll lllllhh t tMMMultitiplple eeellipnggn urursuhhhororrtt loloooolrrr LoLLo CoCoCCSSSoo o rsooooooo t eeet lt llllllllhh itt

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

250 479 0803Royal Oak Shopping Centre

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

We look forward to

meeting you

The magic doesnrsquot

end witha wedding

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

2 FOR 1 SMOOTHIESALL DAY

GRAND OPENINGSaturday January 14th

We would like to invite you to the Grand Opening of Booster Juicersquos latest Premium Juice and Smoothie Bar Come join us for the best tasting Smoothies free samples hot food and more

Booster Juice Cook Street Village240 Cook Street

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PHARMASAVEreg

L I V E W E L L W I T H

BROADMEAD VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE310-777 Royal Oak Drive bull 250-727-3505

wwwpharmasavebroadmeadcom

Serving Your Community for 20 Years

Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Call Direct 250-897-9109 Email infoislandphotoboothcom

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

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rodcointeriorsshawcaOne stop shopping for your commercial and residential decorating needs

In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

mrcitrusolivecom bull wwwcitrusocom250 891 5448

Voted Best Carpet Cleaning Company 4 Years in a Row

With $198 or moreFROM THE BANK OF CITRUS-O

Receive $50 off your Carpet Cleaningwith purchase of $198 or more

Present this coupon at time of serviceOffer expires August 1 2012$50 $50

Heirloom PackagingPreserve your precious gown for life

Let us make sure it stays that wayLL

You spend time energy and money choosing your perfect dress for your perfect day

Esquimalt Plaza Dry Cleaning250 3868641 1 153 Esquimalt RoadThe 1 Drycleaner for your treasured gown

I can help

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

250-370-1818 bull 770 Spruce Avenue wwwtrianglehealingproductscom

Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

products from all over the GlobeRadiant Health Sauna withCarbonFlowtrade heating - the latest far-infrared technology from Japan - at a price lower than most competitors

Titanium Non-Stick Cookware Set

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BlendTec Total Blender

GreenStarJuicer

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Get the job done properly the firsttime when you call an experienced professional We guarantee every

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Licensed bull Bonded bull Insured bull WorkSafe

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Campbell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287bell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287

Private Hot Tubs | Oceanfront Cozy Cabins

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

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Hair amp Makeup

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On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

Knickerbockerrsquos Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria BC250-658-5578

wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 7: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 7

Some might say a long celebrity marriage is one that endures the duration of the newly betrothedrsquos trip down the aisle Wersquove seen Britney Spears dissolve a marriage after 55 hours and Kim Kardashian call it quits after 72 days It seems even money canrsquot buy matrimonial happiness

But some couples have been together for 50 60 years and say theyrsquore still as much in love as they were the day they spoke their ldquoI dosrdquo What do they know that others do not

According to clinical psychologist and relationship guru Dr Phil McGraw ldquoWe all need to be flexible and to compromise in marriage but yoursquove got to be true to your core traits and characteristics what I call your authentic selfrdquo Some couples enter a relationship projecting a persona they believe the other person wants mdash one that really isnrsquot what theyrsquore all about This could be a woman trying to fill the role of her husbandrsquos nurturing mom or a guy playing the protector to his wife In reality marriage is more of a partnership and truth and trust are often at the basis of good marriages

There are many other ldquosecretsrdquo that marriage experts will offer to couples seeking the magic formula Whether yoursquore pondering marriage or have already tied the knot consider the following advice to make a marriage endure for the long haul

bull Therersquos no such thing as the perfect marriage Some couples create an image of what they think marriage is supposed to be and that image that often goes ldquopoofrdquo once reality sets in Even soulmates are bound to frustrate or irritate one another from time to time

bull Couples should express their frustrations Bottling up frustrations can eat at a person and eventually destroy a marriage Talking about the things that are bothering you with your partner opens up a discussion and can help you work through things

bull Divorce should not be seen as a viable option Couples who want to bail on the marriage at every turn could be directing their energy toward divorce as the only solution instead of discovering ways to remove the cause of strife Divorce can sometimes be the easy way out when you think about the work that goes into keeping a marriage working Experts say that there are a few issues like adultery abuse and drugalcohol addiction that may be reasonable catalysts for divorce if personal safety and sanity is being compromised

bull Make time for romance Itrsquos easily said but not so easily done Too often married couples forget what it was like to date when all of their attention was spent on each other instead of the house kids work etc Today there seems to be even more distractions from e-mails to texts to pressure and obligations at the office Happy couples find the time to spend quality time with their spouses mdash even if thatrsquos only 10 minutes of alone time a day

bull Put ldquowerdquo first Many people operate on a ldquomerdquo mentality When yoursquore part of a couple give more to your spouse than you take If he or she is doing the same yoursquore working collectively for the benefit of the marriage instead of yourselves

bull Respect each other Often couples having troubles realize they treat strangers better than they treat each other Would you use the insults or unflattering terms that you sometimes throw at your spouse with a complete stranger Probably not Good marriages are based on a foundation of respect and love Itrsquos easy to lose feelings of love if the respect is gone

Couples can realize that there are some thorns that come with the roses of marriage and staying happy together does take work for it to all be worth it

SecretsTO A lONG amp hAPPy MARRIAGE

WEDDING Those thinking about tying the knot in the months to come may be discouraged by how expensive weddings can be But with a little ingenuity and a hands-on approach couples can have a wedding that is inexpensive and memorable at the same time

Weddingbells magazine states that the average cost for a wedding in Canada is $23330 up from $20129 in 2010

According to CostofWeddingcom on average US couples spend $26542 for their weddings

These amounts do not include the cost of an engagement ring or wedding bands With such a high pricetag some couples may wonder if they can afford their dream wedding or if there are ways to cut costs Having a backyard DIY wedding can be the answer

Although some may envision a backyard wedding with picnic benches and Dad at the grill it can be a much classier affair than that Smart couples are realizing that the money they would normally spend on a big wedding at an outside venue can be put to better use either through buying a new home or fixing up one they may already own

do-it-yourselfgetting startedA DIY wedding is one that will take much more work than simply hiring vendors and leaving the details to them But the money saved with sweat equity can be substantial A well-planned wedding is the best start Grab a notebook and start making lists of all the things you will need

bull locationbull tables and chairsbull linensbull foodbull silverware and glasswarebull invitationsbull photographybull musicbull officiantbull musicbull centerpieces and other deacutecorbull cake or dessertbull lightingbull attire bull flowers

8 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

ldquoThe best time to do your hair trial is when you try your dress on when it arrives You

can see the whole beautiful picture in the mirror as you

choose your hair accessories veil and jewellery and imag-

ine how amazing you will look on your wedding dayrdquo

ndash The Bridersquos Closet

2243 Beacon Ave Sidney BC 250-656-0275 wwwmarywinspearca

Planning a wedding reception dinner dance concert or other special event Need to accomodate up to 800 guests You can really throw a party in our fully accessible 8100 square foot space at Bodine Family Hall

bull Across the street from Mary Winspear Centre for convenient accommodation of your Wedding Guests and Familybull Pet Friendlybull Air Conditionedbull Fridge amp Microwavebull Free High Speed Internetbull All King or Queen Pillow Top Bedsbull Whirlpool sauna fi tness equipmentbull Group Rates and Family Suites Available

Closest Best Westernto Victoria International

Airport amp BC Ferries

Each Best Westernreg Branded Hotel is independently Owned and Operated Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International Inc copy2012 Best Western International Inc All rights reserved

Best Western PLUSEmerald Isle Motor Inn

2306 Beacon Ave Sidney BC2506564441 bull 18003153377

bwemeraldislecom

Sidney-by-the-Sea

Great Food AnytimeWhether itrsquos a light

meal at middayan afternoon snack or

a hearty dinnerSmittyrsquos satisfi es

every timeServing great food in Canada since 1960

in Sidney since 1985

250-656-24232306 Beacon Ave in Sidney(Next to the Best Western PLUS

Emerald Isle)

Sid b th S

bull 18rsquo vaulted ceiling bull Beautiful Ambiencebull Polished flooring bull Raised performance stagebull 12x12 drop screen and state of the art sound amp lighting systemsbull Natural light amp fresh sea air from large roll up doors that open to an adjoining 5000 foot outdoor patio complete with tentsbull FREE onsite parking and ideally located a short walk to nearby accomodations and area attractions

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 9

Many items necessary for a wedding can be bought in advance Some couples find that purchasing low-cost items at discount stores turns out to be less expensive than renting For example inexpensive glasses and silverware can be bought at dollar stores or chains like Ikea Later on these items can be kept sold or even donated to shelters

Tablecloths donrsquot have to be traditional It may be less expensive to purchase pieces of fabric from a fabric store and dress them up yourself Candles can be stockpiled relatively easy and provide a very affordable means of ambient light Plan out centerpiece ideas and figure out which components can be bought and stored Then items can be assembled at leisure Wedding stationery is one thing that will have to be bought well in advance so there will be time enough to

print save-the-date invitations and response cards as well as mail them

An informal wedding may mean couples can get simple attire Buying off the rack may mean a smaller pricetag for gowns Gentleman may be fine with sportcoats and slacks Purchase wardrobe essentials several months in advance to be sure there will be time for alterations if necessary

Enlist the help of family and friends to get many of the tasks completed Upon asking many couples find members of the family who have skills in certain areas which can be tapped for the wedding such as a gourmet chef a disc jockey a photographer or even someone who can officiate the vows Having these people on board means a great reduction in costs

work in advanceBecause couples will be doing the work themselves itrsquos best to start several days in advance of the wedding (weather permitting) Be sure the grounds are well groomed and landscaped Ensure there are no tripping hazards and that there is a sturdy surface for placing tables or creating a dance floor

It may pay to ask an electrician or someone who dabbles in electric work to help string some lights to better illuminate the area especially for when the sun goes down

Set up the tables and chairs to finalize placement the day before Figure out where the ceremony will take place A small arbor can mark the area and make a nice photo backdrop Dress the tables with linens and settings the morning of the wedding

One splurge couples may want to make is hiring a waitstaff to help set up food service areas serve as bartenders and clear away dishes and other messes This way the bride and groom can mingle with guests

readying the venueHere are some other ways to save money on DIY weddings

bull Fruit is less expensive than flowers for centerpieces

bull Include postcard response cards in wedding invites The postage is less and you donrsquot have to spend money on an extra envelope

bull Be sure to check with your town if you need a permit or variance for having so many cars parked by the house in the event of a backyard wedding Otherwise you could be facing a fine

bull Many different foods can be cooked in

advance and frozen instead of hiring a catering service

bull Consider favours that also double as table centerpieces

bull Bouquets can easily be made with store-bought flowers some floral tape and decorative ribbon

bull Restrict the bar to wine and beer and yoursquoll save money on expensive liquors

A DIY wedding can be a fun memorable event that costs a couple a fraction of what it would be to have it held at an expensive location

other tips amp tricks

You Deserve the Best279 Selby Street Nanaimo 250-753-4975

wwwthebridesclosetcom

hellipand create moments to treasure by placing the utmost emphasis ongenuine hospitality Our experienced catering staff will coordinate your special day with caring personalized service We offer packages that cover everything

from a cocktail hour to a formal buffet Ask about our exclusive banquet facilitiesJust tell us your vision and wersquoll combine all the ingredients to bring it to life

Intimate gatherings of 50 to Gala events of 300

We invite you to book a complimentary consultation Just call 2508183226

Innovations Cateringwwwinnovationscateringcom

Every couple wants their wedding to be memorable The goal of planning a wedding is to create an experience that everyone will remember for years to come For some couples a theme wedding is the best way to accomplish just that

When it comes time to select a theme the day the wedding takes place may dictate the theme For example if the wedding

takes place on Halloween the ideas for the theme are easy Many other couples choose a theme that highlights a specific interest or hobby or something that is dear to them Here are some popular wedding themes

bull Holiday The Christmas season lends itself well to wedding planning The colours (red green gold) are already established and most churches and buildings are already decked out in holiday finery cutting down on the amount of flowers and embellishments couples need Because the holiday season is so busy and a popular time for socializing couples who want to tie the knot during this time of year should send save-the-date cards well in advance Another option is to have a ldquoChristmas in Julyrdquo wedding featuring the same holiday themes but without the hectic nature of the holiday season

bull Vegas Couples who want to tie the knot in Las Vegas but want to ensure all their loved ones can attend can recreate the magic of Vegas wherever they may be Casino-inspired games and big buffet meals can make guests feel like they have stepped into a casino on the famed Vegas strip In addition an Elvis impersonator is essential to a Vegas wedding

bull TV show Some couples elevate certain television shows to cult status Whether

itrsquos ldquoFriendsrdquo or ldquoStar Trekrdquo popular television shows have been transformed into festive wedding themes Whether the idea is to go daring and exchange vows in costume or simply name reception tables according to characters or show locations couples can include a little television fun into the event

bull Fairytale Many men and women envision a fairytale wedding complete with horse-drawn carriage and the ldquohappily ever afterrdquo This is what makes Disney properties as well as the various castles around the world popular backdrops for wedding events Those planning a fairytale wedding need only look to favourite stories or movies for their inspiration

bull Interest or passion Love to climb mountains Avid about scuba diving Couples who share a particular interest can include elements of this sport or hobby into their wedding Invitations and deacutecor can hint at the theme and then special activities can further enhance it Fish bowls as centerpieces may call to mind underwater adventures while surfboard-shaped invites may set the scene for a beachside party

Theme weddings can add an extra spice to the festivities and incorporate couplesrsquo interests into the event mdash making it even more special

CAN ADD Up TO ExTRA FUN

WEDDING

A masquerade theme might be an entertaining theme for a couplersquos nuptials

themes10 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

I dowant to look amp

feel my radiant best on this day of days

Rejuvenating spa treatments and group celebrations

help you unwind and prepare for your

special day

2503913920 santespavictoriacom

1999 Country Club WayVictoria BC

We offer couples one hour in the Castle for a ceremony and photo session Say your

vows in front of one of the fabulous fireplaces then have photographs

taken throughout the Castle

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

Renew your vows or elope

Photo by Kuniophotography

Wedding Receptions and Ceremonies

Banquet Room and Outdoor Deck Overlook Golf Course

Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club1050 McTavish Road Sidney2506563136 wwwglenmeadowsbcca

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 11

Chances are those who have attended a wedding have witnessed some popular traditions The bride wears a veil a court of wedding attendants accompanies the bride and groom and birdseed rice or flower petals are tossed But have you ever wondered why Wedding customs are ripe with tradition and harken back to days when superstition and myth often ruled the day

Throwing rice Today it has become de rigueur to blow bubbles toss birdseed or release doves when the bride and groom leave the house of worship newly betrothed Thatrsquos because savvy individuals found that raw rice can pose a hazard to birds pecking in the area However rice throwing is an old custom that dates back to the Middle Ages when wheat or rice where thrown to symbolize fertility for the couple

Bridesmaids There may be arguments over dresses and how many bridesmaids to have in a wedding party now but in ancient times it was ldquothe more the merrierrdquo Thatrsquos because bridesmaids were another measure to keep the bride safe against evil spirits Essentially the bridesmaids were decoys for the spirits mdash dressing like the bride to confuse the spirits or maybe help deter them to leave the bride be

Wedding rings Wearing of wedding rings dates back to ancient Egypt The round shape of a ring symbolizes eternal love The ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it is believed this finger has a blood vessel that goes directly to the heart

Wedding cake The traditional wedding cake evolved from Roman times when the cake was originally made from wheat It was broken over the bridersquos head to ensure fertility All of the guests eat a piece for good luck Single women used to place a piece of wedding cake under their pillows in the hopes of finding their own husbands

Father accompanying the bride This tradition symbolizes that the bridersquos father endorses the choice in husbands and is presenting his daughter as a pure bride to that man

Kissing the bride In older times a kiss symbolized a legal bond Therefore the bride and groom kissed to seal the deal on their betrothal

Origins of bridal customs

There are many traditions surrounding a wedding that people simply accept but understanding their origins can make the ceremony more meaningful

Bouquet Nowadays the bride carries a beautiful bouquet of flowers But the purpose of the bouquet held different meanings in the past Saracen brides carried orange blossoms for fertility Others carried a combination of herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits with their aroma Bouquets of dill were often carried again for fertility reasons and after the ceremony the dill was eaten to encourage lust

We Do RedesignsNew JewelleryFull Service Repair

Locally Owned amp Operated Since 1948

1126 Blanshard Street Victoria bull 2504181126 bull wwwvanislejewellersca

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding Choosing a gown and a colour that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year thatrsquos a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years and many people have their own stories of garish gowns theyrsquove been asked to don for a wedding Some have said that brides intentionally choose

ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure theyrsquore not outshined come the wedding day Although this may be the case for some most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all And colour scheme is integral in the choice of gown

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features Therefore some experimentation might be necessary to find a colour that is flattering to all and fits with the colour scheme

Depending on hair colour and skin shade there are many flattering hues available for gowns When making this decision consider bridesmaidsrsquo ethnicity and skin tone

Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-coloured gowns including silver gold purple and salmon Very pale

colours may be daring and conspicuous

Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colours including red navy peach and fuchsia However avoid colours in light yellow aqua gray taupe or mint which may make the bridesmaid look washed out

Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly coloured gowns in jewel tones Pastels may work but be careful about those depending on hair colour Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair Yellow and green may not work with a fair brunette Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde

Once a colour is chosen brides also need to consider the season Certain colours may look out of place depending on the season For example an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding Similarly russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring

wedding Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues greens pinks and purples for their weddings simply because those colours transcend the seasons

After colours are worked out the style of the gown deserves consideration Because not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes many brides are now open to selecting a colour and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style This way someone who is busty wonrsquot feel uncomfortable in strapless and someone who is thin wonrsquot be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable and different styles can help achieve this

Making the effort to choose a gown colour and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding

CHOOSING A hUE FOR THEbridesmaid gowns

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features

12 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Exterior Romanesque architecture with interior wood paneling and stunning

stained glass provides a rich welcoming place to capture special moments

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

A unique venue for photographers

Photo by Kuniophotography

La MamaMATERNITY amp MORE

Because Yoursquore Expecting

25038839771010 Broad Street Victoria

p g

toria

Style

wwwlamamamaternitycomns s AA ee iinin iiieeAvailalablbleeaSaSaSatttiinn n GGoGoGoG wwnnnssattt ww bSSS iiniiilaaaaiinaaat Avoo boo leAt v ll llt GGGG AAAvnss nnSaSaatttiinn n eeailalablleeaww iinin iiSSS Avoooo vai ett Availl bllAvai b e iiiiiitt MM CoCololoourursuuooullllCCMultitiplple e CCeelleelMultit p CCngg o oorrLoLLoL n r ShShShhororrrrtt pngg MMM rshhh lttrtt uuuMuSSS ip oooooooooo o oooooo ppgg eeh tt ll lllllhh t tMMMultitiplple eeellipnggn urursuhhhororrtt loloooolrrr LoLLo CoCoCCSSSoo o rsooooooo t eeet lt llllllllhh itt

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

250 479 0803Royal Oak Shopping Centre

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

We look forward to

meeting you

The magic doesnrsquot

end witha wedding

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

2 FOR 1 SMOOTHIESALL DAY

GRAND OPENINGSaturday January 14th

We would like to invite you to the Grand Opening of Booster Juicersquos latest Premium Juice and Smoothie Bar Come join us for the best tasting Smoothies free samples hot food and more

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L I V E W E L L W I T H

BROADMEAD VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE310-777 Royal Oak Drive bull 250-727-3505

wwwpharmasavebroadmeadcom

Serving Your Community for 20 Years

Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Call Direct 250-897-9109 Email infoislandphotoboothcom

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

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rodcointeriorsshawcaOne stop shopping for your commercial and residential decorating needs

In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

mrcitrusolivecom bull wwwcitrusocom250 891 5448

Voted Best Carpet Cleaning Company 4 Years in a Row

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Receive $50 off your Carpet Cleaningwith purchase of $198 or more

Present this coupon at time of serviceOffer expires August 1 2012$50 $50

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You spend time energy and money choosing your perfect dress for your perfect day

Esquimalt Plaza Dry Cleaning250 3868641 1 153 Esquimalt RoadThe 1 Drycleaner for your treasured gown

I can help

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

250-370-1818 bull 770 Spruce Avenue wwwtrianglehealingproductscom

Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

products from all over the GlobeRadiant Health Sauna withCarbonFlowtrade heating - the latest far-infrared technology from Japan - at a price lower than most competitors

Titanium Non-Stick Cookware Set

We now have 100 Latex natural mattresses mattress pads amp pillows

BlendTec Total Blender

GreenStarJuicer

NewlywedsRepair It Right

Get the job done properly the firsttime when you call an experienced professional We guarantee every

job we do and our competitiverates canrsquot be beat

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Licensed bull Bonded bull Insured bull WorkSafe

WE DObull Service Calls bull Renovations

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Escape to a world of authentic charm and old-fashioned hospitality

Campbell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287bell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287

Private Hot Tubs | Oceanfront Cozy Cabins

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

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Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

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wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

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Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

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Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

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On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

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for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

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24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 8: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

WEDDING Those thinking about tying the knot in the months to come may be discouraged by how expensive weddings can be But with a little ingenuity and a hands-on approach couples can have a wedding that is inexpensive and memorable at the same time

Weddingbells magazine states that the average cost for a wedding in Canada is $23330 up from $20129 in 2010

According to CostofWeddingcom on average US couples spend $26542 for their weddings

These amounts do not include the cost of an engagement ring or wedding bands With such a high pricetag some couples may wonder if they can afford their dream wedding or if there are ways to cut costs Having a backyard DIY wedding can be the answer

Although some may envision a backyard wedding with picnic benches and Dad at the grill it can be a much classier affair than that Smart couples are realizing that the money they would normally spend on a big wedding at an outside venue can be put to better use either through buying a new home or fixing up one they may already own

do-it-yourselfgetting startedA DIY wedding is one that will take much more work than simply hiring vendors and leaving the details to them But the money saved with sweat equity can be substantial A well-planned wedding is the best start Grab a notebook and start making lists of all the things you will need

bull locationbull tables and chairsbull linensbull foodbull silverware and glasswarebull invitationsbull photographybull musicbull officiantbull musicbull centerpieces and other deacutecorbull cake or dessertbull lightingbull attire bull flowers

8 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

ldquoThe best time to do your hair trial is when you try your dress on when it arrives You

can see the whole beautiful picture in the mirror as you

choose your hair accessories veil and jewellery and imag-

ine how amazing you will look on your wedding dayrdquo

ndash The Bridersquos Closet

2243 Beacon Ave Sidney BC 250-656-0275 wwwmarywinspearca

Planning a wedding reception dinner dance concert or other special event Need to accomodate up to 800 guests You can really throw a party in our fully accessible 8100 square foot space at Bodine Family Hall

bull Across the street from Mary Winspear Centre for convenient accommodation of your Wedding Guests and Familybull Pet Friendlybull Air Conditionedbull Fridge amp Microwavebull Free High Speed Internetbull All King or Queen Pillow Top Bedsbull Whirlpool sauna fi tness equipmentbull Group Rates and Family Suites Available

Closest Best Westernto Victoria International

Airport amp BC Ferries

Each Best Westernreg Branded Hotel is independently Owned and Operated Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International Inc copy2012 Best Western International Inc All rights reserved

Best Western PLUSEmerald Isle Motor Inn

2306 Beacon Ave Sidney BC2506564441 bull 18003153377

bwemeraldislecom

Sidney-by-the-Sea

Great Food AnytimeWhether itrsquos a light

meal at middayan afternoon snack or

a hearty dinnerSmittyrsquos satisfi es

every timeServing great food in Canada since 1960

in Sidney since 1985

250-656-24232306 Beacon Ave in Sidney(Next to the Best Western PLUS

Emerald Isle)

Sid b th S

bull 18rsquo vaulted ceiling bull Beautiful Ambiencebull Polished flooring bull Raised performance stagebull 12x12 drop screen and state of the art sound amp lighting systemsbull Natural light amp fresh sea air from large roll up doors that open to an adjoining 5000 foot outdoor patio complete with tentsbull FREE onsite parking and ideally located a short walk to nearby accomodations and area attractions

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 9

Many items necessary for a wedding can be bought in advance Some couples find that purchasing low-cost items at discount stores turns out to be less expensive than renting For example inexpensive glasses and silverware can be bought at dollar stores or chains like Ikea Later on these items can be kept sold or even donated to shelters

Tablecloths donrsquot have to be traditional It may be less expensive to purchase pieces of fabric from a fabric store and dress them up yourself Candles can be stockpiled relatively easy and provide a very affordable means of ambient light Plan out centerpiece ideas and figure out which components can be bought and stored Then items can be assembled at leisure Wedding stationery is one thing that will have to be bought well in advance so there will be time enough to

print save-the-date invitations and response cards as well as mail them

An informal wedding may mean couples can get simple attire Buying off the rack may mean a smaller pricetag for gowns Gentleman may be fine with sportcoats and slacks Purchase wardrobe essentials several months in advance to be sure there will be time for alterations if necessary

Enlist the help of family and friends to get many of the tasks completed Upon asking many couples find members of the family who have skills in certain areas which can be tapped for the wedding such as a gourmet chef a disc jockey a photographer or even someone who can officiate the vows Having these people on board means a great reduction in costs

work in advanceBecause couples will be doing the work themselves itrsquos best to start several days in advance of the wedding (weather permitting) Be sure the grounds are well groomed and landscaped Ensure there are no tripping hazards and that there is a sturdy surface for placing tables or creating a dance floor

It may pay to ask an electrician or someone who dabbles in electric work to help string some lights to better illuminate the area especially for when the sun goes down

Set up the tables and chairs to finalize placement the day before Figure out where the ceremony will take place A small arbor can mark the area and make a nice photo backdrop Dress the tables with linens and settings the morning of the wedding

One splurge couples may want to make is hiring a waitstaff to help set up food service areas serve as bartenders and clear away dishes and other messes This way the bride and groom can mingle with guests

readying the venueHere are some other ways to save money on DIY weddings

bull Fruit is less expensive than flowers for centerpieces

bull Include postcard response cards in wedding invites The postage is less and you donrsquot have to spend money on an extra envelope

bull Be sure to check with your town if you need a permit or variance for having so many cars parked by the house in the event of a backyard wedding Otherwise you could be facing a fine

bull Many different foods can be cooked in

advance and frozen instead of hiring a catering service

bull Consider favours that also double as table centerpieces

bull Bouquets can easily be made with store-bought flowers some floral tape and decorative ribbon

bull Restrict the bar to wine and beer and yoursquoll save money on expensive liquors

A DIY wedding can be a fun memorable event that costs a couple a fraction of what it would be to have it held at an expensive location

other tips amp tricks

You Deserve the Best279 Selby Street Nanaimo 250-753-4975

wwwthebridesclosetcom

hellipand create moments to treasure by placing the utmost emphasis ongenuine hospitality Our experienced catering staff will coordinate your special day with caring personalized service We offer packages that cover everything

from a cocktail hour to a formal buffet Ask about our exclusive banquet facilitiesJust tell us your vision and wersquoll combine all the ingredients to bring it to life

Intimate gatherings of 50 to Gala events of 300

We invite you to book a complimentary consultation Just call 2508183226

Innovations Cateringwwwinnovationscateringcom

Every couple wants their wedding to be memorable The goal of planning a wedding is to create an experience that everyone will remember for years to come For some couples a theme wedding is the best way to accomplish just that

When it comes time to select a theme the day the wedding takes place may dictate the theme For example if the wedding

takes place on Halloween the ideas for the theme are easy Many other couples choose a theme that highlights a specific interest or hobby or something that is dear to them Here are some popular wedding themes

bull Holiday The Christmas season lends itself well to wedding planning The colours (red green gold) are already established and most churches and buildings are already decked out in holiday finery cutting down on the amount of flowers and embellishments couples need Because the holiday season is so busy and a popular time for socializing couples who want to tie the knot during this time of year should send save-the-date cards well in advance Another option is to have a ldquoChristmas in Julyrdquo wedding featuring the same holiday themes but without the hectic nature of the holiday season

bull Vegas Couples who want to tie the knot in Las Vegas but want to ensure all their loved ones can attend can recreate the magic of Vegas wherever they may be Casino-inspired games and big buffet meals can make guests feel like they have stepped into a casino on the famed Vegas strip In addition an Elvis impersonator is essential to a Vegas wedding

bull TV show Some couples elevate certain television shows to cult status Whether

itrsquos ldquoFriendsrdquo or ldquoStar Trekrdquo popular television shows have been transformed into festive wedding themes Whether the idea is to go daring and exchange vows in costume or simply name reception tables according to characters or show locations couples can include a little television fun into the event

bull Fairytale Many men and women envision a fairytale wedding complete with horse-drawn carriage and the ldquohappily ever afterrdquo This is what makes Disney properties as well as the various castles around the world popular backdrops for wedding events Those planning a fairytale wedding need only look to favourite stories or movies for their inspiration

bull Interest or passion Love to climb mountains Avid about scuba diving Couples who share a particular interest can include elements of this sport or hobby into their wedding Invitations and deacutecor can hint at the theme and then special activities can further enhance it Fish bowls as centerpieces may call to mind underwater adventures while surfboard-shaped invites may set the scene for a beachside party

Theme weddings can add an extra spice to the festivities and incorporate couplesrsquo interests into the event mdash making it even more special

CAN ADD Up TO ExTRA FUN

WEDDING

A masquerade theme might be an entertaining theme for a couplersquos nuptials

themes10 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

I dowant to look amp

feel my radiant best on this day of days

Rejuvenating spa treatments and group celebrations

help you unwind and prepare for your

special day

2503913920 santespavictoriacom

1999 Country Club WayVictoria BC

We offer couples one hour in the Castle for a ceremony and photo session Say your

vows in front of one of the fabulous fireplaces then have photographs

taken throughout the Castle

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

Renew your vows or elope

Photo by Kuniophotography

Wedding Receptions and Ceremonies

Banquet Room and Outdoor Deck Overlook Golf Course

Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club1050 McTavish Road Sidney2506563136 wwwglenmeadowsbcca

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 11

Chances are those who have attended a wedding have witnessed some popular traditions The bride wears a veil a court of wedding attendants accompanies the bride and groom and birdseed rice or flower petals are tossed But have you ever wondered why Wedding customs are ripe with tradition and harken back to days when superstition and myth often ruled the day

Throwing rice Today it has become de rigueur to blow bubbles toss birdseed or release doves when the bride and groom leave the house of worship newly betrothed Thatrsquos because savvy individuals found that raw rice can pose a hazard to birds pecking in the area However rice throwing is an old custom that dates back to the Middle Ages when wheat or rice where thrown to symbolize fertility for the couple

Bridesmaids There may be arguments over dresses and how many bridesmaids to have in a wedding party now but in ancient times it was ldquothe more the merrierrdquo Thatrsquos because bridesmaids were another measure to keep the bride safe against evil spirits Essentially the bridesmaids were decoys for the spirits mdash dressing like the bride to confuse the spirits or maybe help deter them to leave the bride be

Wedding rings Wearing of wedding rings dates back to ancient Egypt The round shape of a ring symbolizes eternal love The ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it is believed this finger has a blood vessel that goes directly to the heart

Wedding cake The traditional wedding cake evolved from Roman times when the cake was originally made from wheat It was broken over the bridersquos head to ensure fertility All of the guests eat a piece for good luck Single women used to place a piece of wedding cake under their pillows in the hopes of finding their own husbands

Father accompanying the bride This tradition symbolizes that the bridersquos father endorses the choice in husbands and is presenting his daughter as a pure bride to that man

Kissing the bride In older times a kiss symbolized a legal bond Therefore the bride and groom kissed to seal the deal on their betrothal

Origins of bridal customs

There are many traditions surrounding a wedding that people simply accept but understanding their origins can make the ceremony more meaningful

Bouquet Nowadays the bride carries a beautiful bouquet of flowers But the purpose of the bouquet held different meanings in the past Saracen brides carried orange blossoms for fertility Others carried a combination of herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits with their aroma Bouquets of dill were often carried again for fertility reasons and after the ceremony the dill was eaten to encourage lust

We Do RedesignsNew JewelleryFull Service Repair

Locally Owned amp Operated Since 1948

1126 Blanshard Street Victoria bull 2504181126 bull wwwvanislejewellersca

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding Choosing a gown and a colour that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year thatrsquos a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years and many people have their own stories of garish gowns theyrsquove been asked to don for a wedding Some have said that brides intentionally choose

ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure theyrsquore not outshined come the wedding day Although this may be the case for some most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all And colour scheme is integral in the choice of gown

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features Therefore some experimentation might be necessary to find a colour that is flattering to all and fits with the colour scheme

Depending on hair colour and skin shade there are many flattering hues available for gowns When making this decision consider bridesmaidsrsquo ethnicity and skin tone

Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-coloured gowns including silver gold purple and salmon Very pale

colours may be daring and conspicuous

Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colours including red navy peach and fuchsia However avoid colours in light yellow aqua gray taupe or mint which may make the bridesmaid look washed out

Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly coloured gowns in jewel tones Pastels may work but be careful about those depending on hair colour Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair Yellow and green may not work with a fair brunette Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde

Once a colour is chosen brides also need to consider the season Certain colours may look out of place depending on the season For example an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding Similarly russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring

wedding Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues greens pinks and purples for their weddings simply because those colours transcend the seasons

After colours are worked out the style of the gown deserves consideration Because not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes many brides are now open to selecting a colour and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style This way someone who is busty wonrsquot feel uncomfortable in strapless and someone who is thin wonrsquot be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable and different styles can help achieve this

Making the effort to choose a gown colour and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding

CHOOSING A hUE FOR THEbridesmaid gowns

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features

12 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Exterior Romanesque architecture with interior wood paneling and stunning

stained glass provides a rich welcoming place to capture special moments

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

A unique venue for photographers

Photo by Kuniophotography

La MamaMATERNITY amp MORE

Because Yoursquore Expecting

25038839771010 Broad Street Victoria

p g

toria

Style

wwwlamamamaternitycomns s AA ee iinin iiieeAvailalablbleeaSaSaSatttiinn n GGoGoGoG wwnnnssattt ww bSSS iiniiilaaaaiinaaat Avoo boo leAt v ll llt GGGG AAAvnss nnSaSaatttiinn n eeailalablleeaww iinin iiSSS Avoooo vai ett Availl bllAvai b e iiiiiitt MM CoCololoourursuuooullllCCMultitiplple e CCeelleelMultit p CCngg o oorrLoLLoL n r ShShShhororrrrtt pngg MMM rshhh lttrtt uuuMuSSS ip oooooooooo o oooooo ppgg eeh tt ll lllllhh t tMMMultitiplple eeellipnggn urursuhhhororrtt loloooolrrr LoLLo CoCoCCSSSoo o rsooooooo t eeet lt llllllllhh itt

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

250 479 0803Royal Oak Shopping Centre

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

We look forward to

meeting you

The magic doesnrsquot

end witha wedding

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

2 FOR 1 SMOOTHIESALL DAY

GRAND OPENINGSaturday January 14th

We would like to invite you to the Grand Opening of Booster Juicersquos latest Premium Juice and Smoothie Bar Come join us for the best tasting Smoothies free samples hot food and more

Booster Juice Cook Street Village240 Cook Street

334_Store271_Bridal Ad1indd 1 12-01-05 315 PM

PHARMASAVEreg

L I V E W E L L W I T H

BROADMEAD VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE310-777 Royal Oak Drive bull 250-727-3505

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Serving Your Community for 20 Years

Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

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rodcointeriorsshawcaOne stop shopping for your commercial and residential decorating needs

In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

mrcitrusolivecom bull wwwcitrusocom250 891 5448

Voted Best Carpet Cleaning Company 4 Years in a Row

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Let us make sure it stays that wayLL

You spend time energy and money choosing your perfect dress for your perfect day

Esquimalt Plaza Dry Cleaning250 3868641 1 153 Esquimalt RoadThe 1 Drycleaner for your treasured gown

I can help

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bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

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Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

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Hair amp Makeup

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On-Location bull In-Studio

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

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Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

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BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

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and Wiferdquo

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Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

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Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

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Plan your bridal skin program today

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24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 9: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 9

Many items necessary for a wedding can be bought in advance Some couples find that purchasing low-cost items at discount stores turns out to be less expensive than renting For example inexpensive glasses and silverware can be bought at dollar stores or chains like Ikea Later on these items can be kept sold or even donated to shelters

Tablecloths donrsquot have to be traditional It may be less expensive to purchase pieces of fabric from a fabric store and dress them up yourself Candles can be stockpiled relatively easy and provide a very affordable means of ambient light Plan out centerpiece ideas and figure out which components can be bought and stored Then items can be assembled at leisure Wedding stationery is one thing that will have to be bought well in advance so there will be time enough to

print save-the-date invitations and response cards as well as mail them

An informal wedding may mean couples can get simple attire Buying off the rack may mean a smaller pricetag for gowns Gentleman may be fine with sportcoats and slacks Purchase wardrobe essentials several months in advance to be sure there will be time for alterations if necessary

Enlist the help of family and friends to get many of the tasks completed Upon asking many couples find members of the family who have skills in certain areas which can be tapped for the wedding such as a gourmet chef a disc jockey a photographer or even someone who can officiate the vows Having these people on board means a great reduction in costs

work in advanceBecause couples will be doing the work themselves itrsquos best to start several days in advance of the wedding (weather permitting) Be sure the grounds are well groomed and landscaped Ensure there are no tripping hazards and that there is a sturdy surface for placing tables or creating a dance floor

It may pay to ask an electrician or someone who dabbles in electric work to help string some lights to better illuminate the area especially for when the sun goes down

Set up the tables and chairs to finalize placement the day before Figure out where the ceremony will take place A small arbor can mark the area and make a nice photo backdrop Dress the tables with linens and settings the morning of the wedding

One splurge couples may want to make is hiring a waitstaff to help set up food service areas serve as bartenders and clear away dishes and other messes This way the bride and groom can mingle with guests

readying the venueHere are some other ways to save money on DIY weddings

bull Fruit is less expensive than flowers for centerpieces

bull Include postcard response cards in wedding invites The postage is less and you donrsquot have to spend money on an extra envelope

bull Be sure to check with your town if you need a permit or variance for having so many cars parked by the house in the event of a backyard wedding Otherwise you could be facing a fine

bull Many different foods can be cooked in

advance and frozen instead of hiring a catering service

bull Consider favours that also double as table centerpieces

bull Bouquets can easily be made with store-bought flowers some floral tape and decorative ribbon

bull Restrict the bar to wine and beer and yoursquoll save money on expensive liquors

A DIY wedding can be a fun memorable event that costs a couple a fraction of what it would be to have it held at an expensive location

other tips amp tricks

You Deserve the Best279 Selby Street Nanaimo 250-753-4975

wwwthebridesclosetcom

hellipand create moments to treasure by placing the utmost emphasis ongenuine hospitality Our experienced catering staff will coordinate your special day with caring personalized service We offer packages that cover everything

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Every couple wants their wedding to be memorable The goal of planning a wedding is to create an experience that everyone will remember for years to come For some couples a theme wedding is the best way to accomplish just that

When it comes time to select a theme the day the wedding takes place may dictate the theme For example if the wedding

takes place on Halloween the ideas for the theme are easy Many other couples choose a theme that highlights a specific interest or hobby or something that is dear to them Here are some popular wedding themes

bull Holiday The Christmas season lends itself well to wedding planning The colours (red green gold) are already established and most churches and buildings are already decked out in holiday finery cutting down on the amount of flowers and embellishments couples need Because the holiday season is so busy and a popular time for socializing couples who want to tie the knot during this time of year should send save-the-date cards well in advance Another option is to have a ldquoChristmas in Julyrdquo wedding featuring the same holiday themes but without the hectic nature of the holiday season

bull Vegas Couples who want to tie the knot in Las Vegas but want to ensure all their loved ones can attend can recreate the magic of Vegas wherever they may be Casino-inspired games and big buffet meals can make guests feel like they have stepped into a casino on the famed Vegas strip In addition an Elvis impersonator is essential to a Vegas wedding

bull TV show Some couples elevate certain television shows to cult status Whether

itrsquos ldquoFriendsrdquo or ldquoStar Trekrdquo popular television shows have been transformed into festive wedding themes Whether the idea is to go daring and exchange vows in costume or simply name reception tables according to characters or show locations couples can include a little television fun into the event

bull Fairytale Many men and women envision a fairytale wedding complete with horse-drawn carriage and the ldquohappily ever afterrdquo This is what makes Disney properties as well as the various castles around the world popular backdrops for wedding events Those planning a fairytale wedding need only look to favourite stories or movies for their inspiration

bull Interest or passion Love to climb mountains Avid about scuba diving Couples who share a particular interest can include elements of this sport or hobby into their wedding Invitations and deacutecor can hint at the theme and then special activities can further enhance it Fish bowls as centerpieces may call to mind underwater adventures while surfboard-shaped invites may set the scene for a beachside party

Theme weddings can add an extra spice to the festivities and incorporate couplesrsquo interests into the event mdash making it even more special

CAN ADD Up TO ExTRA FUN

WEDDING

A masquerade theme might be an entertaining theme for a couplersquos nuptials

themes10 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

I dowant to look amp

feel my radiant best on this day of days

Rejuvenating spa treatments and group celebrations

help you unwind and prepare for your

special day

2503913920 santespavictoriacom

1999 Country Club WayVictoria BC

We offer couples one hour in the Castle for a ceremony and photo session Say your

vows in front of one of the fabulous fireplaces then have photographs

taken throughout the Castle

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

Renew your vows or elope

Photo by Kuniophotography

Wedding Receptions and Ceremonies

Banquet Room and Outdoor Deck Overlook Golf Course

Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club1050 McTavish Road Sidney2506563136 wwwglenmeadowsbcca

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 11

Chances are those who have attended a wedding have witnessed some popular traditions The bride wears a veil a court of wedding attendants accompanies the bride and groom and birdseed rice or flower petals are tossed But have you ever wondered why Wedding customs are ripe with tradition and harken back to days when superstition and myth often ruled the day

Throwing rice Today it has become de rigueur to blow bubbles toss birdseed or release doves when the bride and groom leave the house of worship newly betrothed Thatrsquos because savvy individuals found that raw rice can pose a hazard to birds pecking in the area However rice throwing is an old custom that dates back to the Middle Ages when wheat or rice where thrown to symbolize fertility for the couple

Bridesmaids There may be arguments over dresses and how many bridesmaids to have in a wedding party now but in ancient times it was ldquothe more the merrierrdquo Thatrsquos because bridesmaids were another measure to keep the bride safe against evil spirits Essentially the bridesmaids were decoys for the spirits mdash dressing like the bride to confuse the spirits or maybe help deter them to leave the bride be

Wedding rings Wearing of wedding rings dates back to ancient Egypt The round shape of a ring symbolizes eternal love The ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it is believed this finger has a blood vessel that goes directly to the heart

Wedding cake The traditional wedding cake evolved from Roman times when the cake was originally made from wheat It was broken over the bridersquos head to ensure fertility All of the guests eat a piece for good luck Single women used to place a piece of wedding cake under their pillows in the hopes of finding their own husbands

Father accompanying the bride This tradition symbolizes that the bridersquos father endorses the choice in husbands and is presenting his daughter as a pure bride to that man

Kissing the bride In older times a kiss symbolized a legal bond Therefore the bride and groom kissed to seal the deal on their betrothal

Origins of bridal customs

There are many traditions surrounding a wedding that people simply accept but understanding their origins can make the ceremony more meaningful

Bouquet Nowadays the bride carries a beautiful bouquet of flowers But the purpose of the bouquet held different meanings in the past Saracen brides carried orange blossoms for fertility Others carried a combination of herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits with their aroma Bouquets of dill were often carried again for fertility reasons and after the ceremony the dill was eaten to encourage lust

We Do RedesignsNew JewelleryFull Service Repair

Locally Owned amp Operated Since 1948

1126 Blanshard Street Victoria bull 2504181126 bull wwwvanislejewellersca

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding Choosing a gown and a colour that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year thatrsquos a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years and many people have their own stories of garish gowns theyrsquove been asked to don for a wedding Some have said that brides intentionally choose

ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure theyrsquore not outshined come the wedding day Although this may be the case for some most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all And colour scheme is integral in the choice of gown

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features Therefore some experimentation might be necessary to find a colour that is flattering to all and fits with the colour scheme

Depending on hair colour and skin shade there are many flattering hues available for gowns When making this decision consider bridesmaidsrsquo ethnicity and skin tone

Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-coloured gowns including silver gold purple and salmon Very pale

colours may be daring and conspicuous

Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colours including red navy peach and fuchsia However avoid colours in light yellow aqua gray taupe or mint which may make the bridesmaid look washed out

Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly coloured gowns in jewel tones Pastels may work but be careful about those depending on hair colour Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair Yellow and green may not work with a fair brunette Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde

Once a colour is chosen brides also need to consider the season Certain colours may look out of place depending on the season For example an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding Similarly russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring

wedding Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues greens pinks and purples for their weddings simply because those colours transcend the seasons

After colours are worked out the style of the gown deserves consideration Because not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes many brides are now open to selecting a colour and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style This way someone who is busty wonrsquot feel uncomfortable in strapless and someone who is thin wonrsquot be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable and different styles can help achieve this

Making the effort to choose a gown colour and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding

CHOOSING A hUE FOR THEbridesmaid gowns

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features

12 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Exterior Romanesque architecture with interior wood paneling and stunning

stained glass provides a rich welcoming place to capture special moments

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

A unique venue for photographers

Photo by Kuniophotography

La MamaMATERNITY amp MORE

Because Yoursquore Expecting

25038839771010 Broad Street Victoria

p g

toria

Style

wwwlamamamaternitycomns s AA ee iinin iiieeAvailalablbleeaSaSaSatttiinn n GGoGoGoG wwnnnssattt ww bSSS iiniiilaaaaiinaaat Avoo boo leAt v ll llt GGGG AAAvnss nnSaSaatttiinn n eeailalablleeaww iinin iiSSS Avoooo vai ett Availl bllAvai b e iiiiiitt MM CoCololoourursuuooullllCCMultitiplple e CCeelleelMultit p CCngg o oorrLoLLoL n r ShShShhororrrrtt pngg MMM rshhh lttrtt uuuMuSSS ip oooooooooo o oooooo ppgg eeh tt ll lllllhh t tMMMultitiplple eeellipnggn urursuhhhororrtt loloooolrrr LoLLo CoCoCCSSSoo o rsooooooo t eeet lt llllllllhh itt

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

250 479 0803Royal Oak Shopping Centre

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

We look forward to

meeting you

The magic doesnrsquot

end witha wedding

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

2 FOR 1 SMOOTHIESALL DAY

GRAND OPENINGSaturday January 14th

We would like to invite you to the Grand Opening of Booster Juicersquos latest Premium Juice and Smoothie Bar Come join us for the best tasting Smoothies free samples hot food and more

Booster Juice Cook Street Village240 Cook Street

334_Store271_Bridal Ad1indd 1 12-01-05 315 PM

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BROADMEAD VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE310-777 Royal Oak Drive bull 250-727-3505

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Serving Your Community for 20 Years

Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Call Direct 250-897-9109 Email infoislandphotoboothcom

Island Wide Toll Free 1-888-90-PHOTO (1-888-907-4686)

Visit our snazzy website islandphotoboothcom

Your cool personal graphic goes here

The Lodge at Weirs BeachVictoria BC

250478-500018884784761infothelodgeatweirsbeachcom

The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

corporate retreats amp wedding ceremoniesamp accommodation

edding ceremoniesodation

Motorized

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2rdquo BlindsWood amp Faux60 off

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rodcointeriorsshawcaOne stop shopping for your commercial and residential decorating needs

In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

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With $198 or moreFROM THE BANK OF CITRUS-O

Receive $50 off your Carpet Cleaningwith purchase of $198 or more

Present this coupon at time of serviceOffer expires August 1 2012$50 $50

Heirloom PackagingPreserve your precious gown for life

Let us make sure it stays that wayLL

You spend time energy and money choosing your perfect dress for your perfect day

Esquimalt Plaza Dry Cleaning250 3868641 1 153 Esquimalt RoadThe 1 Drycleaner for your treasured gown

I can help

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

250-370-1818 bull 770 Spruce Avenue wwwtrianglehealingproductscom

Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

products from all over the GlobeRadiant Health Sauna withCarbonFlowtrade heating - the latest far-infrared technology from Japan - at a price lower than most competitors

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BlendTec Total Blender

GreenStarJuicer

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Get the job done properly the firsttime when you call an experienced professional We guarantee every

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

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Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

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Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

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The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

Knickerbockerrsquos Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria BC250-658-5578

wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

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Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

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Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

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Plan your bridal skin program today

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24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 10: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

Every couple wants their wedding to be memorable The goal of planning a wedding is to create an experience that everyone will remember for years to come For some couples a theme wedding is the best way to accomplish just that

When it comes time to select a theme the day the wedding takes place may dictate the theme For example if the wedding

takes place on Halloween the ideas for the theme are easy Many other couples choose a theme that highlights a specific interest or hobby or something that is dear to them Here are some popular wedding themes

bull Holiday The Christmas season lends itself well to wedding planning The colours (red green gold) are already established and most churches and buildings are already decked out in holiday finery cutting down on the amount of flowers and embellishments couples need Because the holiday season is so busy and a popular time for socializing couples who want to tie the knot during this time of year should send save-the-date cards well in advance Another option is to have a ldquoChristmas in Julyrdquo wedding featuring the same holiday themes but without the hectic nature of the holiday season

bull Vegas Couples who want to tie the knot in Las Vegas but want to ensure all their loved ones can attend can recreate the magic of Vegas wherever they may be Casino-inspired games and big buffet meals can make guests feel like they have stepped into a casino on the famed Vegas strip In addition an Elvis impersonator is essential to a Vegas wedding

bull TV show Some couples elevate certain television shows to cult status Whether

itrsquos ldquoFriendsrdquo or ldquoStar Trekrdquo popular television shows have been transformed into festive wedding themes Whether the idea is to go daring and exchange vows in costume or simply name reception tables according to characters or show locations couples can include a little television fun into the event

bull Fairytale Many men and women envision a fairytale wedding complete with horse-drawn carriage and the ldquohappily ever afterrdquo This is what makes Disney properties as well as the various castles around the world popular backdrops for wedding events Those planning a fairytale wedding need only look to favourite stories or movies for their inspiration

bull Interest or passion Love to climb mountains Avid about scuba diving Couples who share a particular interest can include elements of this sport or hobby into their wedding Invitations and deacutecor can hint at the theme and then special activities can further enhance it Fish bowls as centerpieces may call to mind underwater adventures while surfboard-shaped invites may set the scene for a beachside party

Theme weddings can add an extra spice to the festivities and incorporate couplesrsquo interests into the event mdash making it even more special

CAN ADD Up TO ExTRA FUN

WEDDING

A masquerade theme might be an entertaining theme for a couplersquos nuptials

themes10 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

I dowant to look amp

feel my radiant best on this day of days

Rejuvenating spa treatments and group celebrations

help you unwind and prepare for your

special day

2503913920 santespavictoriacom

1999 Country Club WayVictoria BC

We offer couples one hour in the Castle for a ceremony and photo session Say your

vows in front of one of the fabulous fireplaces then have photographs

taken throughout the Castle

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

Renew your vows or elope

Photo by Kuniophotography

Wedding Receptions and Ceremonies

Banquet Room and Outdoor Deck Overlook Golf Course

Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club1050 McTavish Road Sidney2506563136 wwwglenmeadowsbcca

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 11

Chances are those who have attended a wedding have witnessed some popular traditions The bride wears a veil a court of wedding attendants accompanies the bride and groom and birdseed rice or flower petals are tossed But have you ever wondered why Wedding customs are ripe with tradition and harken back to days when superstition and myth often ruled the day

Throwing rice Today it has become de rigueur to blow bubbles toss birdseed or release doves when the bride and groom leave the house of worship newly betrothed Thatrsquos because savvy individuals found that raw rice can pose a hazard to birds pecking in the area However rice throwing is an old custom that dates back to the Middle Ages when wheat or rice where thrown to symbolize fertility for the couple

Bridesmaids There may be arguments over dresses and how many bridesmaids to have in a wedding party now but in ancient times it was ldquothe more the merrierrdquo Thatrsquos because bridesmaids were another measure to keep the bride safe against evil spirits Essentially the bridesmaids were decoys for the spirits mdash dressing like the bride to confuse the spirits or maybe help deter them to leave the bride be

Wedding rings Wearing of wedding rings dates back to ancient Egypt The round shape of a ring symbolizes eternal love The ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it is believed this finger has a blood vessel that goes directly to the heart

Wedding cake The traditional wedding cake evolved from Roman times when the cake was originally made from wheat It was broken over the bridersquos head to ensure fertility All of the guests eat a piece for good luck Single women used to place a piece of wedding cake under their pillows in the hopes of finding their own husbands

Father accompanying the bride This tradition symbolizes that the bridersquos father endorses the choice in husbands and is presenting his daughter as a pure bride to that man

Kissing the bride In older times a kiss symbolized a legal bond Therefore the bride and groom kissed to seal the deal on their betrothal

Origins of bridal customs

There are many traditions surrounding a wedding that people simply accept but understanding their origins can make the ceremony more meaningful

Bouquet Nowadays the bride carries a beautiful bouquet of flowers But the purpose of the bouquet held different meanings in the past Saracen brides carried orange blossoms for fertility Others carried a combination of herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits with their aroma Bouquets of dill were often carried again for fertility reasons and after the ceremony the dill was eaten to encourage lust

We Do RedesignsNew JewelleryFull Service Repair

Locally Owned amp Operated Since 1948

1126 Blanshard Street Victoria bull 2504181126 bull wwwvanislejewellersca

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding Choosing a gown and a colour that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year thatrsquos a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years and many people have their own stories of garish gowns theyrsquove been asked to don for a wedding Some have said that brides intentionally choose

ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure theyrsquore not outshined come the wedding day Although this may be the case for some most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all And colour scheme is integral in the choice of gown

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features Therefore some experimentation might be necessary to find a colour that is flattering to all and fits with the colour scheme

Depending on hair colour and skin shade there are many flattering hues available for gowns When making this decision consider bridesmaidsrsquo ethnicity and skin tone

Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-coloured gowns including silver gold purple and salmon Very pale

colours may be daring and conspicuous

Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colours including red navy peach and fuchsia However avoid colours in light yellow aqua gray taupe or mint which may make the bridesmaid look washed out

Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly coloured gowns in jewel tones Pastels may work but be careful about those depending on hair colour Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair Yellow and green may not work with a fair brunette Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde

Once a colour is chosen brides also need to consider the season Certain colours may look out of place depending on the season For example an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding Similarly russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring

wedding Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues greens pinks and purples for their weddings simply because those colours transcend the seasons

After colours are worked out the style of the gown deserves consideration Because not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes many brides are now open to selecting a colour and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style This way someone who is busty wonrsquot feel uncomfortable in strapless and someone who is thin wonrsquot be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable and different styles can help achieve this

Making the effort to choose a gown colour and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding

CHOOSING A hUE FOR THEbridesmaid gowns

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features

12 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Exterior Romanesque architecture with interior wood paneling and stunning

stained glass provides a rich welcoming place to capture special moments

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

A unique venue for photographers

Photo by Kuniophotography

La MamaMATERNITY amp MORE

Because Yoursquore Expecting

25038839771010 Broad Street Victoria

p g

toria

Style

wwwlamamamaternitycomns s AA ee iinin iiieeAvailalablbleeaSaSaSatttiinn n GGoGoGoG wwnnnssattt ww bSSS iiniiilaaaaiinaaat Avoo boo leAt v ll llt GGGG AAAvnss nnSaSaatttiinn n eeailalablleeaww iinin iiSSS Avoooo vai ett Availl bllAvai b e iiiiiitt MM CoCololoourursuuooullllCCMultitiplple e CCeelleelMultit p CCngg o oorrLoLLoL n r ShShShhororrrrtt pngg MMM rshhh lttrtt uuuMuSSS ip oooooooooo o oooooo ppgg eeh tt ll lllllhh t tMMMultitiplple eeellipnggn urursuhhhororrtt loloooolrrr LoLLo CoCoCCSSSoo o rsooooooo t eeet lt llllllllhh itt

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

250 479 0803Royal Oak Shopping Centre

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

We look forward to

meeting you

The magic doesnrsquot

end witha wedding

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

2 FOR 1 SMOOTHIESALL DAY

GRAND OPENINGSaturday January 14th

We would like to invite you to the Grand Opening of Booster Juicersquos latest Premium Juice and Smoothie Bar Come join us for the best tasting Smoothies free samples hot food and more

Booster Juice Cook Street Village240 Cook Street

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PHARMASAVEreg

L I V E W E L L W I T H

BROADMEAD VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE310-777 Royal Oak Drive bull 250-727-3505

wwwpharmasavebroadmeadcom

Serving Your Community for 20 Years

Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Call Direct 250-897-9109 Email infoislandphotoboothcom

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

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rodcointeriorsshawcaOne stop shopping for your commercial and residential decorating needs

In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

mrcitrusolivecom bull wwwcitrusocom250 891 5448

Voted Best Carpet Cleaning Company 4 Years in a Row

With $198 or moreFROM THE BANK OF CITRUS-O

Receive $50 off your Carpet Cleaningwith purchase of $198 or more

Present this coupon at time of serviceOffer expires August 1 2012$50 $50

Heirloom PackagingPreserve your precious gown for life

Let us make sure it stays that wayLL

You spend time energy and money choosing your perfect dress for your perfect day

Esquimalt Plaza Dry Cleaning250 3868641 1 153 Esquimalt RoadThe 1 Drycleaner for your treasured gown

I can help

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

250-370-1818 bull 770 Spruce Avenue wwwtrianglehealingproductscom

Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

products from all over the GlobeRadiant Health Sauna withCarbonFlowtrade heating - the latest far-infrared technology from Japan - at a price lower than most competitors

Titanium Non-Stick Cookware Set

We now have 100 Latex natural mattresses mattress pads amp pillows

BlendTec Total Blender

GreenStarJuicer

NewlywedsRepair It Right

Get the job done properly the firsttime when you call an experienced professional We guarantee every

job we do and our competitiverates canrsquot be beat

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Licensed bull Bonded bull Insured bull WorkSafe

WE DObull Service Calls bull Renovations

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Escape to a world of authentic charm and old-fashioned hospitality

Campbell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287bell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287

Private Hot Tubs | Oceanfront Cozy Cabins

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

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Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

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wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

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On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

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for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

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24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 11: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 11

Chances are those who have attended a wedding have witnessed some popular traditions The bride wears a veil a court of wedding attendants accompanies the bride and groom and birdseed rice or flower petals are tossed But have you ever wondered why Wedding customs are ripe with tradition and harken back to days when superstition and myth often ruled the day

Throwing rice Today it has become de rigueur to blow bubbles toss birdseed or release doves when the bride and groom leave the house of worship newly betrothed Thatrsquos because savvy individuals found that raw rice can pose a hazard to birds pecking in the area However rice throwing is an old custom that dates back to the Middle Ages when wheat or rice where thrown to symbolize fertility for the couple

Bridesmaids There may be arguments over dresses and how many bridesmaids to have in a wedding party now but in ancient times it was ldquothe more the merrierrdquo Thatrsquos because bridesmaids were another measure to keep the bride safe against evil spirits Essentially the bridesmaids were decoys for the spirits mdash dressing like the bride to confuse the spirits or maybe help deter them to leave the bride be

Wedding rings Wearing of wedding rings dates back to ancient Egypt The round shape of a ring symbolizes eternal love The ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it is believed this finger has a blood vessel that goes directly to the heart

Wedding cake The traditional wedding cake evolved from Roman times when the cake was originally made from wheat It was broken over the bridersquos head to ensure fertility All of the guests eat a piece for good luck Single women used to place a piece of wedding cake under their pillows in the hopes of finding their own husbands

Father accompanying the bride This tradition symbolizes that the bridersquos father endorses the choice in husbands and is presenting his daughter as a pure bride to that man

Kissing the bride In older times a kiss symbolized a legal bond Therefore the bride and groom kissed to seal the deal on their betrothal

Origins of bridal customs

There are many traditions surrounding a wedding that people simply accept but understanding their origins can make the ceremony more meaningful

Bouquet Nowadays the bride carries a beautiful bouquet of flowers But the purpose of the bouquet held different meanings in the past Saracen brides carried orange blossoms for fertility Others carried a combination of herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits with their aroma Bouquets of dill were often carried again for fertility reasons and after the ceremony the dill was eaten to encourage lust

We Do RedesignsNew JewelleryFull Service Repair

Locally Owned amp Operated Since 1948

1126 Blanshard Street Victoria bull 2504181126 bull wwwvanislejewellersca

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding Choosing a gown and a colour that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year thatrsquos a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years and many people have their own stories of garish gowns theyrsquove been asked to don for a wedding Some have said that brides intentionally choose

ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure theyrsquore not outshined come the wedding day Although this may be the case for some most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all And colour scheme is integral in the choice of gown

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features Therefore some experimentation might be necessary to find a colour that is flattering to all and fits with the colour scheme

Depending on hair colour and skin shade there are many flattering hues available for gowns When making this decision consider bridesmaidsrsquo ethnicity and skin tone

Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-coloured gowns including silver gold purple and salmon Very pale

colours may be daring and conspicuous

Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colours including red navy peach and fuchsia However avoid colours in light yellow aqua gray taupe or mint which may make the bridesmaid look washed out

Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly coloured gowns in jewel tones Pastels may work but be careful about those depending on hair colour Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair Yellow and green may not work with a fair brunette Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde

Once a colour is chosen brides also need to consider the season Certain colours may look out of place depending on the season For example an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding Similarly russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring

wedding Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues greens pinks and purples for their weddings simply because those colours transcend the seasons

After colours are worked out the style of the gown deserves consideration Because not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes many brides are now open to selecting a colour and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style This way someone who is busty wonrsquot feel uncomfortable in strapless and someone who is thin wonrsquot be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable and different styles can help achieve this

Making the effort to choose a gown colour and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding

CHOOSING A hUE FOR THEbridesmaid gowns

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features

12 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Exterior Romanesque architecture with interior wood paneling and stunning

stained glass provides a rich welcoming place to capture special moments

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

A unique venue for photographers

Photo by Kuniophotography

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Because Yoursquore Expecting

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toria

Style

wwwlamamamaternitycomns s AA ee iinin iiieeAvailalablbleeaSaSaSatttiinn n GGoGoGoG wwnnnssattt ww bSSS iiniiilaaaaiinaaat Avoo boo leAt v ll llt GGGG AAAvnss nnSaSaatttiinn n eeailalablleeaww iinin iiSSS Avoooo vai ett Availl bllAvai b e iiiiiitt MM CoCololoourursuuooullllCCMultitiplple e CCeelleelMultit p CCngg o oorrLoLLoL n r ShShShhororrrrtt pngg MMM rshhh lttrtt uuuMuSSS ip oooooooooo o oooooo ppgg eeh tt ll lllllhh t tMMMultitiplple eeellipnggn urursuhhhororrtt loloooolrrr LoLLo CoCoCCSSSoo o rsooooooo t eeet lt llllllllhh itt

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

250 479 0803Royal Oak Shopping Centre

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RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

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Booster Juice Cook Street Village240 Cook Street

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BROADMEAD VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE310-777 Royal Oak Drive bull 250-727-3505

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Serving Your Community for 20 Years

Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Call Direct 250-897-9109 Email infoislandphotoboothcom

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

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rodcointeriorsshawcaOne stop shopping for your commercial and residential decorating needs

In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

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Present this coupon at time of serviceOffer expires August 1 2012$50 $50

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Esquimalt Plaza Dry Cleaning250 3868641 1 153 Esquimalt RoadThe 1 Drycleaner for your treasured gown

I can help

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

250-370-1818 bull 770 Spruce Avenue wwwtrianglehealingproductscom

Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

products from all over the GlobeRadiant Health Sauna withCarbonFlowtrade heating - the latest far-infrared technology from Japan - at a price lower than most competitors

Titanium Non-Stick Cookware Set

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Get the job done properly the firsttime when you call an experienced professional We guarantee every

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Licensed bull Bonded bull Insured bull WorkSafe

WE DObull Service Calls bull Renovations

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Campbell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287bell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287

Private Hot Tubs | Oceanfront Cozy Cabins

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

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Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

Knickerbockerrsquos Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria BC250-658-5578

wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

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On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 12: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

Bridesmaids are an important part of the wedding party and most brides opt to have a handful of close friends and family members play a special role in the wedding Choosing a gown and a colour that will flatter all of the bridesmaids typically takes a little work

An overwhelming majority of couples choose to have a formal wedding The average number of bridesmaids for these formal weddings is four Considering around two million weddings take place in North America every year thatrsquos a lot of bridesmaids for whom gowns and other attire must be planned

Many bridesmaids worry about the gowns they will wear come the big day Horrible bridesmaid dresses have been the butt of jokes for years and many people have their own stories of garish gowns theyrsquove been asked to don for a wedding Some have said that brides intentionally choose

ugly gowns for their bridesmaids to ensure theyrsquore not outshined come the wedding day Although this may be the case for some most brides aspire to select gowns that will be flattering for all And colour scheme is integral in the choice of gown

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features Therefore some experimentation might be necessary to find a colour that is flattering to all and fits with the colour scheme

Depending on hair colour and skin shade there are many flattering hues available for gowns When making this decision consider bridesmaidsrsquo ethnicity and skin tone

Women with dark skin and hair may really shine in jewel-coloured gowns including silver gold purple and salmon Very pale

colours may be daring and conspicuous

Those with a slight yellow tone to their skin will look good in many colours including red navy peach and fuchsia However avoid colours in light yellow aqua gray taupe or mint which may make the bridesmaid look washed out

Ladies with pale skin will benefit from richly coloured gowns in jewel tones Pastels may work but be careful about those depending on hair colour Pink or red-hued gowns may clash with someone with auburn hair Yellow and green may not work with a fair brunette Gray and silver may wash out someone who is pale and blonde

Once a colour is chosen brides also need to consider the season Certain colours may look out of place depending on the season For example an evergreen or deep blue may seem wintry during a summer wedding Similarly russet or brown may work for the autumn but not for a spring

wedding Many brides gravitate toward mid-level blues greens pinks and purples for their weddings simply because those colours transcend the seasons

After colours are worked out the style of the gown deserves consideration Because not every bridesmaid has the same physical attributes many brides are now open to selecting a colour and length and allowing the bridesmaid herself to choose the exact style This way someone who is busty wonrsquot feel uncomfortable in strapless and someone who is thin wonrsquot be overwhelmed by a lot of ruffles The intent is to have bridesmaids feel beautiful and comfortable and different styles can help achieve this

Making the effort to choose a gown colour and style that is flattering to all in the bridal party will help the ladies feel they are truly a special part of the wedding

CHOOSING A hUE FOR THEbridesmaid gowns

Every well-planned wedding carries a colour scheme throughout This includes the colour a bride selects for her bridesmaids to wear But not every colour accentuates everyonersquos features

12 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Exterior Romanesque architecture with interior wood paneling and stunning

stained glass provides a rich welcoming place to capture special moments

For rental information please call 2505925323 ext 32

1050 Joan Crescent Victoria BC

A unique venue for photographers

Photo by Kuniophotography

La MamaMATERNITY amp MORE

Because Yoursquore Expecting

25038839771010 Broad Street Victoria

p g

toria

Style

wwwlamamamaternitycomns s AA ee iinin iiieeAvailalablbleeaSaSaSatttiinn n GGoGoGoG wwnnnssattt ww bSSS iiniiilaaaaiinaaat Avoo boo leAt v ll llt GGGG AAAvnss nnSaSaatttiinn n eeailalablleeaww iinin iiSSS Avoooo vai ett Availl bllAvai b e iiiiiitt MM CoCololoourursuuooullllCCMultitiplple e CCeelleelMultit p CCngg o oorrLoLLoL n r ShShShhororrrrtt pngg MMM rshhh lttrtt uuuMuSSS ip oooooooooo o oooooo ppgg eeh tt ll lllllhh t tMMMultitiplple eeellipnggn urursuhhhororrtt loloooolrrr LoLLo CoCoCCSSSoo o rsooooooo t eeet lt llllllllhh itt

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

250 479 0803Royal Oak Shopping Centre

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

We look forward to

meeting you

The magic doesnrsquot

end witha wedding

wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

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GRAND OPENINGSaturday January 14th

We would like to invite you to the Grand Opening of Booster Juicersquos latest Premium Juice and Smoothie Bar Come join us for the best tasting Smoothies free samples hot food and more

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Serving Your Community for 20 Years

Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

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In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

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Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

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On-Location bull In-Studio

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

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Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

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BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

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US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

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Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

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Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

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Plan your bridal skin program today

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24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 13: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 13

Brides-to-be thinking of asking a pregnant friend or family member to be in the bridal party should know such a request is common Recent findings indicate that around half of all weddings now have at least one member of the bridal party showing off a baby bump mdash sometimes itrsquos even the bride herself

Barring a medical condition there is no reason a pregnant woman canrsquot be in the wedding and fulfill her obligations so feel free to invite that special someone to be in the wedding There are just a few things to consider to help make it easier on everyone involved Think over these things

bull Gowns One of the things brides and bridesmaids often fret about is the gown they will be wearing While nonpregnant members of the bridal party wonrsquot fluctuate much in weight from the day of their first fittings to the wedding day a pregnant woman is growing with new life within her from the moment of conception This will have to be taken into consideration Some maternity designers create bridesmaid dresses for pregnant women but they may not exactly match the other gowns in mind Ask the bridal store if alterations can be made to a standard gown including ordering a much larger size adding elastic panels or another way to ensure the gown will stretch over a growing belly Also be considerate and choose a gown in an empire waist style so that it is flattering for the pregnant bridesmaid

bull Shoes While pregnant some womenrsquos feet swell Having strict restrictions on footwear can make a pregnant woman uncomfortable Low heels or ballerina slippers can be comfortable and fashionable The other members of the bridal party may also thank you for choosing a sensible shoe

bull Breaks Many activities during the wedding are bound to be tiring But someone who is pregnant may feel it more than others Ensure your mama-to-be has ample time to sit and rest Also try to have planning meetings near a restroom where she will be comfortable

bull Non-alcoholic drinks From bachelorette parties to the wedding itself be sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic and decaffeinated drinks she can enjoy Pregnant women need to have a lot of water to meet the physical demand of pregnancy as well

bull Travel In the latter months of the pregnancy many doctors advise against air

travel Spending long hours in a car may be uncomfortable as well If you were thinking about having the wedding far away these are things that must be taken into consideration You may want to revise your plans if your heart is set on having this woman in the bridal party

bull Ceremony It can be tiring for a pregnant woman especially one in the last trimester to stand for a long period of time If you are having a long religious ceremony see if a seat can be arranged so your bridesmaid can sit down when she needs a rest

bull Declined invitation Some pregnant women will jump at the chance to be in the wedding while others may realize their limitations and prefer to attend only as a guest Have a another person in mind in case your bridesmaid invitation is declined and do not hold it against the person if she feels she wonrsquot be able to commit during her pregnancy

bull Patience Although all eyes are generally on the bride on her special day having a pregnant bridesmaid may garner a share of ldquooohs and aahsrdquo and attention for her as well Itrsquos a humble bride who can share her spotlight for a while And remember the ldquosomething newrdquo at your wedding may be that new baby who is on the way

WHEN A BRIDESMAID IS pREGNANT

having a pregnant friend or family member as a bridesmaid just takes a little extra planning

Things to consider

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wwwBelliesInBloomMaternitycom

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RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

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Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

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In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

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You spend time energy and money choosing your perfect dress for your perfect day

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

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Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

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Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

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Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

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Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

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Upper Lip $500

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Threading

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$8995per session

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per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

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On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

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Plan your bridal skin program today

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24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 14: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

RECEpTION TOUCHES

Over the course of their lifetimes many people will be wedding guests on several occasions During the height of wedding season weddings can run into one another as the format and the festivities are similar at various ceremonies Couples interested in setting their nuptials apart may want to enhance the wedding reception with a few unique ideas

Who hasnrsquot attended a wedding that seems formulaic The couple enters they do their spotlight dance therersquos food a bouquet toss and then the cake cutting Guests may actually be able to predict whatrsquos coming next While it is often customary and easy to follow tradition that doesnrsquot mean you cannot buck with tradition and offer a few creative ideas to make your event stand out

bull Skip the big entrance Those who were kind enough to attend the ceremony have already been introduced to the newly minted happy couple Instead of spending the cocktail hour in the isolation of the wedding suite mingle with your guests from start to finish So much time is spent posing for pictures or being out of touch with guests the cocktail hour can be a great time to sit and chat Being with guests during the cocktail hour means you donrsquot have to make that big entrance

from behind closed doors Guests will have all eyes on you when you step on the dance floor for your first dance together

bull Dance to an upbeat number Guests are expecting a slow sappy tune What they may not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun If you havenrsquot mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick step now and again feel free to choose a tune that shows your excitement and love for each other

bull Encourage couples to dance together Itrsquos often customary for the bridal party to join the bride and groom on the dance floor midway through the first dance However that leaves spouses or significant others waiting in the wings while their dates tango with groomsmen or bridesmaids Instead donrsquot have assigned partners Rather encourage your bridal party members to dance with whomever they choose

bull Swap the garterbouquet toss for something more meaningful If yoursquore part of a couple who feels the garter and bouquet toss has become trite there are other ways to create special moments in your celebration mdash ones that donrsquot single out the singletons who havenrsquot yet found their special someones Use this time to present a small gift or token of your affection to someone on the

guest list who has served as a mentor or source of inspiration

bull Choose one special component as an extra goodie for guests Some couples feel the more they offer the better guests will view their wedding Spending more money doesnrsquot necessarily mean guests will have a better time If you want to go above and beyond the ordinary find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party It could be a flambeacute presentation a chocolate or candy bar a carving station with your all-time favourite food (even if thatrsquos PBampJ) or a carnival-inspired automatic photo booth

bull Hire a live performer Although itrsquos hard to beat the performance quality of your wedding song being performed by the original artist unless yoursquore cousins with Celine Dion chances are she wonrsquot be available to sing ldquoMy Heart Will Go Onrdquo at your reception However a live band adds a certain level of excitement that a disk jockey may not be able to provide Those who are adding a cultural or ethnic component to their wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer like a bagpiper as an added measure of entertainment for guests

bull Let them eat hellip cookies Some people just donrsquot like cake Therefore why should a couple have to cut a seven-tiered white confection Towers of different types of treats can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that classic cake-cutting photo A pyramid of cream puffs stacks of brownies a cookie castle or cereal-cake concoctions can work Some bakeries will decorate a ldquodummyrdquo styrofoam cake and then you can serve apple pie a la mode if you desire

bull Stage a costume switch Letrsquos face it dancing all night in a long gown takes some stamina As the bride have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into for the latter part of the reception It will also add some variety to your wedding photos

SONG IDEAS

If Michael Bubleacute or Nat King Cole arenrsquot on your playlists chances are you may be looking for a first-dance song thatrsquos a little less traditional for your wedding reception

Couples considering a song thatrsquos a little different and speaks to them but wonrsquot necessarily offend the wedding purists in attendance might want to consider the following tunes

ldquoAll I Want is Yourdquo (U2)

ldquoAmazingrdquo (Aerosmith)

ldquoYou amp Merdquo (Dave Matthews Band)

ldquoCrazy for Yourdquo (Adele)

ldquoFasterrdquo (Matt Nathanson)

ldquoFor You I Willrdquo (Monica)

ldquoKiss Merdquo (Sixpence None the Richer)

ldquoIrsquoll Stand by Yourdquo (The Pretenders)

ldquoLove Songrdquo (The Cure)

ldquoNo Onerdquo (Alicia Keys)

ldquoSuga Sugardquo (Baby Bash)

ldquoWithout Yourdquo (Rent Soundtrack)

ldquoYou Want to Make a Memoryrdquo (Bon Jovi)

first dance

Unique14 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

2 FOR 1 SMOOTHIESALL DAY

GRAND OPENINGSaturday January 14th

We would like to invite you to the Grand Opening of Booster Juicersquos latest Premium Juice and Smoothie Bar Come join us for the best tasting Smoothies free samples hot food and more

Booster Juice Cook Street Village240 Cook Street

334_Store271_Bridal Ad1indd 1 12-01-05 315 PM

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L I V E W E L L W I T H

BROADMEAD VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE310-777 Royal Oak Drive bull 250-727-3505

wwwpharmasavebroadmeadcom

Serving Your Community for 20 Years

Personalize Your Wedding Photos with the Creative Photo Kioskbull Books bull Mugs bull Calendars bull T-Shirts bull And So Much More

wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Call Direct 250-897-9109 Email infoislandphotoboothcom

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

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rodcointeriorsshawcaOne stop shopping for your commercial and residential decorating needs

In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

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Receive $50 off your Carpet Cleaningwith purchase of $198 or more

Present this coupon at time of serviceOffer expires August 1 2012$50 $50

Heirloom PackagingPreserve your precious gown for life

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You spend time energy and money choosing your perfect dress for your perfect day

Esquimalt Plaza Dry Cleaning250 3868641 1 153 Esquimalt RoadThe 1 Drycleaner for your treasured gown

I can help

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

250-370-1818 bull 770 Spruce Avenue wwwtrianglehealingproductscom

Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

products from all over the GlobeRadiant Health Sauna withCarbonFlowtrade heating - the latest far-infrared technology from Japan - at a price lower than most competitors

Titanium Non-Stick Cookware Set

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BlendTec Total Blender

GreenStarJuicer

NewlywedsRepair It Right

Get the job done properly the firsttime when you call an experienced professional We guarantee every

job we do and our competitiverates canrsquot be beat

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Licensed bull Bonded bull Insured bull WorkSafe

WE DObull Service Calls bull Renovations

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Escape to a world of authentic charm and old-fashioned hospitality

Campbell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287bell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287

Private Hot Tubs | Oceanfront Cozy Cabins

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

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Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

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Hair amp Makeup

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On-Location bull In-Studio

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

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NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

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2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

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Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

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BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

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US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

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Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

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Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

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Coming Soon

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24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 15: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 15

favour ideas

FEED ON THESE WEDDING

Do you have a shelf or cabinet thatrsquos filled to the brim with wedding favours such as engraved ice cream scoopers cake servers cheese spreaders or tea light candle holders If you do yoursquore not alone As couples pore over guest favour options many select trinkets or knickknacks that while thoughtful end up collecting dust in someonersquos home Edible gifts also can be thoughtful mdash and flavorful

Guests may look forward to an edible favour because itrsquos a memento of the special occasion and it wonrsquot become a permanent fixture in their homes There are many edible favours from which to choose They can also be customized according to the theme of the wedding

ChocolateItrsquos difficult to find an edible favour more universally beloved than chocolate Rich and inviting chocolate has long been given as a symbol of love and devotion Chocolate candies and baked goods can work well for wedding favours provided the favours are refrigerated to avoid melting

Ideas for chocolate favours include individually packaged truffles gourmet brownie bites candy-covered chocolates with an inscription chocolate covered apples chocolate coins and other similar creations Chocolate molded designs (much like those chocolate Easter bunnies) are another idea

CookiesSweet cookies also make good edible favours Butter cookies are a favourite because they are sturdy enough to cut into different shapes Professionally iced these cookies can be a masterpiece to behold Some couples opt for customized fortune cookies that express personalized sentiments to guests

Make-your-ownSometimes itrsquos less expensive to give guests kits that they can take home to create their own edible treasures Options abound and can include everything from personalized packets of hot chocolate to tea bags Other couples choose among mixes for making cookies or cakes

CandiesIt has become popular to have a self-serve candy bar at many weddings Guests are invited to step up to the display and serve themselves from a series of different confections Autumn weddings could have Halloween-inspired candies or those in fall hues Itrsquos easy to follow a colour theme when you have a bevy of different candies at your disposal Many discount stores sell inexpensive

jars and candy dishes to house the candy Designer Chinese takeout-type containers are available from craft stores and can be the perfect way for guests to make that candy portable

Other ediblesFrom cupcakes to maple syrup to personalized bottles of barbecue

sauce couples have so many options for guest favours at their disposal

Edible wedding favours may include decorative cookie baskets featuring gourmet cookies from a favourite bakery

ldquoBe open-minded about flowers and their availability While it is possible to bring flowers in from around the world all year long there may be a different in-season option right here at home that will create the same look for a fraction of the cost Brides can also personalize their bouquet by adding something to it that means something to them such as a small keepsakerdquo

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wedding tip

ndash Thrifty Foods

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Call Direct 250-897-9109 Email infoislandphotoboothcom

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In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

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JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

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Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

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Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

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BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

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US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

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Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

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Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

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On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

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Plan your bridal skin program today

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24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 16: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

Couples often fret over what to serve their guests at the reception and rightfully so Reception costs can comprise a majority of the wedding-day budget When spending $100 or more per guest you want to ensure yoursquore getting what you paid for and that guests enjoy what theyrsquore eating

Filet mignon may be a good choice but steak tartare is probably best avoided Find out which foods to avoid serving your wedding guests

Exotic cuisine You may be a risk taker when it comes to cuisine but others may not share your zeal for exotic foods Now

is not the time to introduce guests to the wild and wacky If yoursquove seen an exotic dish on the Food Network or the Travel Channel give it a try another time

Anything on fire Why risk an accident for a spectacle Baked alaska cherries jubilee apples flambeacute hellip these are foods that might provide a show but the cost of that show may not be worth it in the end

Raw food Clams on the halfshell or sushi-grade tuna may seem like good ideas but keep in mind that it is hard to ensure quality when feeding 200 people at the same time Foods that require special refrigeration or immediate service for freshness are best left for other occasions Donrsquot risk food poisoning on a room full of people unless you want your wedding to be remembered for stomach cramps

A long sit-down meal Two or three courses is fine but if guests have to sit through a never-ending parade of courses that limits their ability to mingle and have a good time

Anything too elaborate The faster servers can get food out to guests the better If they have to sit there piping mashed potato roses on dishes or assemble intricate canapes the delay

might not be worth the presentation And remember the more bells and whistles the higher the price tag

Fast food This is your wedding and you want the food to fit with the scale of the day A formal wedding generally includes a formal meal Although it may be alright to include some fast food inspired dishes at the cocktail buffet steer clear of burgers and fries for the main meal

Themed food Donrsquot dye that baked potato purple because you want the wedding to be a plum-coloured affair Also itrsquos best to avoid themed food unless it is part of a cultural wedding or can be pulled off with class Itrsquos much easier to pass off crepes and croissants for a Parisian wedding than giant turkey legs and tankards of ale for a Renaissance-themed one

No food at all Whether your wedding is small or grand in scale guests will expect some sort of food Be sure to have some butler-passed hors drsquooeuvres or some well-placed pickings for guests to grab while mingling After all they will need something to provide the energy to mingle and dance and food can help buffer the effects of too many cocktails

Despite the months of planning and poring over every minute detail of a wedding it has often been said that what people remember most about wedding receptions is the food and if they had fun Therefore instead of worrying about choosing Jordan almonds over chocolate truffles or whether the cake should have an extra tier couples may want to pay more attention to selecting their reception menus

Although certain foods are wedding staples it could pay for couples to think with their stomachs instead of their heads when selecting wedding day fare Having a selection of foods that taste as good as they look is a wise idea over having certain foods simply because they are trendy

Whether you are cooking yourself having a family member serve as chef or relying on the menu of the reception hall think about foods that will please guests and select those items

regardless of them being fancy

Here are some other tipsYou want foods to be filling but not so much so that guests have to waddle to the dance floor If yoursquore planning on several courses keep portion sizes small to offer a taste of the different items offered

Classic foods can work well as wedding fare Roasts barbecued meats and favourite pasta dishes can make guests feel like theyrsquore dining at someonersquos home and not at a wedding

Choose items people have heard of Instead of tornadoes of beef select a hearty prime rib Just because a dish sounds fancy doesnrsquot make it taste better If a guest doesnrsquot know what he or she is eating it can be uncomfortable Now is not the time to experiment with exotic foods either Otherwise some picky eaters may be left hungry

Think about the foods you love and see if they can be incorporated at the wedding Although a breakfast bar at an evening event may seem funny waffles and omelets may appeal to a greater number of guests than a gourmet fish creation

Donrsquot make vegetarians an afterthought Too often vegetarians must eat whatever the kitchen can pull together which is usually a compilation of the vegetable garnishes from the meat dishes Make an effort to have a true vegetarian dish that is intricate and delicious

Mashed potatoes are a crowd pleaser Serve little portions of mashed potatoes in cocktail glasses and enable guests to top as they see fit with bacon bits cheese or chives

No idea is silly and serving any type of food in a hors drsquooeuvre style can make it acceptable at a formal affair whether that food is pizza or caviar-topped crackers

If you have a favourite restaurant that

serves delicious food find out if they will cater your wedding

Just because it isnrsquot on the menu doesnrsquot mean it cannot be prepared Talk to the catering manager and let him or her know your preferences Provided yoursquore willing to pay a little more therersquos a good chance you can have items that arenrsquot on the standard catering menu

Think outside the box for your cocktail hour ldquobarsrdquo A bread bar a dipping station milk and cookies service or vegetable bar are options that go against the standard cheese and pasta stations

Although itrsquos your wedding ultimately the goal is to please the guests By choosing foods they will love and rave about yoursquore guaranteed positive remarks on your wedding

WhAT NOT TO SERVE AT A WEDDING

USE cUISINE TO CREATEa wedding to remember16 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

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The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

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In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

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I can help

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

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After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

2506868155 bull infosharonraicom bull wwwsharonraicom

Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

Knickerbockerrsquos Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria BC250-658-5578

wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 17: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 17

GETTING yOUR BC MARRIAGE LICENCETo marry in British Columbia couples must first obtain a Marriage Licence which is good for three months and may not be extended explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website Only one member of the couple need apply in person for the licence which currently costs $100 payable at the time of application Primary identification such as a birth certificate IMMImmigration form Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming full legal names birth date and place of birth should be provided for both parties Yoursquoll also be asked about your current marital status and address Other documents that may be used include a Driverrsquos Licence Passport Credit Card and others For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Who can perform the marriage ceremonyHere in British Columbia couples can choose either a religious or civil ceremony which must be witnessed by two people explains BCrsquos Vital Statistics Agency website For a religious ceremony the representative must be registered with the Vital Statistics Agency under the Marriage ActBC civil ceremonies are performed by marriage commissioners Contact and book a marriage commissioner as soon as possible once you set your wedding date You will need to providebull Date and time of your ceremonybull Location and addressbull Payment of fees to the commissionerbull Additional helpful information such as the number of guests

and people in the wedding party plus any special wardrobe or other requests

For more information see wwwvsgovbcca

Call Direct 250-897-9109 Email infoislandphotoboothcom

Island Wide Toll Free 1-888-90-PHOTO (1-888-907-4686)

Visit our snazzy website islandphotoboothcom

Your cool personal graphic goes here

The Lodge at Weirs BeachVictoria BC

250478-500018884784761infothelodgeatweirsbeachcom

The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific CoastThe Lodge is designed for family gatherings

corporate retreats amp wedding ceremoniesamp accommodation

edding ceremoniesodation

Motorized

Blinds

Hotel Needs

Upholstery

Draperies

Furniture

Carpets

Repairs

Motorized Motorized

BlindsBlinds

Hotel NeedsHotel Needs

Rodco Draperies

amp InteriorsUpholstery

Motorized Solarweave Blinds

2rdquo BlindsWood amp Faux60 off

250-656-4642wwwrodcointeriorscom

rodcointeriorsshawcaOne stop shopping for your commercial and residential decorating needs

In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

mrcitrusolivecom bull wwwcitrusocom250 891 5448

Voted Best Carpet Cleaning Company 4 Years in a Row

With $198 or moreFROM THE BANK OF CITRUS-O

Receive $50 off your Carpet Cleaningwith purchase of $198 or more

Present this coupon at time of serviceOffer expires August 1 2012$50 $50

Heirloom PackagingPreserve your precious gown for life

Let us make sure it stays that wayLL

You spend time energy and money choosing your perfect dress for your perfect day

Esquimalt Plaza Dry Cleaning250 3868641 1 153 Esquimalt RoadThe 1 Drycleaner for your treasured gown

I can help

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

250-370-1818 bull 770 Spruce Avenue wwwtrianglehealingproductscom

Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

products from all over the GlobeRadiant Health Sauna withCarbonFlowtrade heating - the latest far-infrared technology from Japan - at a price lower than most competitors

Titanium Non-Stick Cookware Set

We now have 100 Latex natural mattresses mattress pads amp pillows

BlendTec Total Blender

GreenStarJuicer

NewlywedsRepair It Right

Get the job done properly the firsttime when you call an experienced professional We guarantee every

job we do and our competitiverates canrsquot be beat

2508830238texelelectriccom

Licensed bull Bonded bull Insured bull WorkSafe

WE DObull Service Calls bull Renovations

bull Panel Upgradesbull Telephone TV amp Data

Escape to a world of authentic charm and old-fashioned hospitality

Campbell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287bell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287

Private Hot Tubs | Oceanfront Cozy Cabins

Dolphinsresort

After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

2506868155 bull infosharonraicom bull wwwsharonraicom

Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

Knickerbockerrsquos Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria BC250-658-5578

wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 18: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

In a financial climate where most people are pinching pennies it comes as no surprise that many engaged couples seek ways to cut costs with regard to their weddings Some couples are undecided whether certain components of their wedding are necessaryThe decision to hire a videographer is one such area couples fret over After all with a photographer snapping hundreds of pictures having a video may seem like an unnecessary luxury However people often find that having a wedding video to cherish long after the day has passed is well worth the price

There are several advantages to hiring a professional videographer to capture the day A professionally produced wedding video is not the same as Uncle Fred carrying around his archaic camcorder and catching a

few embarrassing dance moves during the reception A professional video will showcase all moments of the wedding from perspectives not easily captured by photography In addition to showcasing the images of the wedding the video will also share the sounds and emotions of the day Here are some things to think about

bull Choose a videographer who will work in conjunction with the wedding mood and parameters You probably donrsquot want a videographer who uses bright lights that can be distracting Nor do you want a videographer who pushes the camera in guestsrsquo faces for a less-than-candid interview Todayrsquos professionals are inconspicuous and simply record the events as they unfold

bull The videographer often works in tandem with the photographer Some photographers have a videographer on staff But it is fine to bring in your own if you like the quality of the photographerrsquos photos but not the videographerrsquos work

ADVANTAGES TO A Wedding Video18 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Company is ComingWersquoll bring the breath of fresh air

NATURAL FAST DRY CARPET CLEANING

mrcitrusolivecom bull wwwcitrusocom250 891 5448

Voted Best Carpet Cleaning Company 4 Years in a Row

With $198 or moreFROM THE BANK OF CITRUS-O

Receive $50 off your Carpet Cleaningwith purchase of $198 or more

Present this coupon at time of serviceOffer expires August 1 2012$50 $50

Heirloom PackagingPreserve your precious gown for life

Let us make sure it stays that wayLL

You spend time energy and money choosing your perfect dress for your perfect day

Esquimalt Plaza Dry Cleaning250 3868641 1 153 Esquimalt RoadThe 1 Drycleaner for your treasured gown

I can help

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

250-370-1818 bull 770 Spruce Avenue wwwtrianglehealingproductscom

Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

products from all over the GlobeRadiant Health Sauna withCarbonFlowtrade heating - the latest far-infrared technology from Japan - at a price lower than most competitors

Titanium Non-Stick Cookware Set

We now have 100 Latex natural mattresses mattress pads amp pillows

BlendTec Total Blender

GreenStarJuicer

NewlywedsRepair It Right

Get the job done properly the firsttime when you call an experienced professional We guarantee every

job we do and our competitiverates canrsquot be beat

2508830238texelelectriccom

Licensed bull Bonded bull Insured bull WorkSafe

WE DObull Service Calls bull Renovations

bull Panel Upgradesbull Telephone TV amp Data

Escape to a world of authentic charm and old-fashioned hospitality

Campbell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287bell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287

Private Hot Tubs | Oceanfront Cozy Cabins

Dolphinsresort

After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

2506868155 bull infosharonraicom bull wwwsharonraicom

Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

Knickerbockerrsquos Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria BC250-658-5578

wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 19: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 19

bull Although ours is an increasingly digital world where people capture photos and videos on their smartphones and other devices on a regular basis a wedding video can serve as a family memento What other time apart from the holidays do you have all of your friends and loved ones together in one place

bull Sound is a portion of the wedding that photos simply cannot capture To relive the music and the words of the day a videographer is a necessity Professionals who use wireless microphones will produce a video with the best sound quality

bull You can work with a good videographer so itrsquos not simply a video with close-up shots of your face or unflattering

perspectives Talk about your preferences and even fears about being filmed (some people just donrsquot like watching themselves on TV) and the videographer can no doubt find solutions that will accommodate your needs

bull There are many things that you will not see at the wedding but may have liked to such as the first gasps of wonder upon guests walking into the reception room

or the tears on the face of an aunt who was sitting too far back

in the church pews This is where a wedding

video can prove invaluable

bull Modern videographers offer high-resolution edited movies These can be

delivered via Blu Ray DVD and ensure the

best quality for your package

A videographer will capture the things you may have missed during the busy day He or she can serve as the eyes and ears for the things yoursquore not seeing and hearing

ldquoRemember that it is your day to enjoy with your new spouse your family and

your friends Enjoy yourself and those who care about you will

enjoy the day toordquo

ndash Glen Meadows Golf amp Country Club

wedding tip

250-370-1818 bull 770 Spruce Avenue wwwtrianglehealingproductscom

Everything to create a Healthy You using the best

products from all over the GlobeRadiant Health Sauna withCarbonFlowtrade heating - the latest far-infrared technology from Japan - at a price lower than most competitors

Titanium Non-Stick Cookware Set

We now have 100 Latex natural mattresses mattress pads amp pillows

BlendTec Total Blender

GreenStarJuicer

NewlywedsRepair It Right

Get the job done properly the firsttime when you call an experienced professional We guarantee every

job we do and our competitiverates canrsquot be beat

2508830238texelelectriccom

Licensed bull Bonded bull Insured bull WorkSafe

WE DObull Service Calls bull Renovations

bull Panel Upgradesbull Telephone TV amp Data

Escape to a world of authentic charm and old-fashioned hospitality

Campbell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287bell River bull wwwdolphinsresortcom bull 1 800 891 0287

Private Hot Tubs | Oceanfront Cozy Cabins

Dolphinsresort

After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

2506868155 bull infosharonraicom bull wwwsharonraicom

Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

Knickerbockerrsquos Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria BC250-658-5578

wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 20: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

After the thrill of wedding festivities dies down couples often jet off to a honeymoon retreat and begin an entirely different adventure The honeymoon may create mixed feelings some concerning the chance to spend time alone after months of planning and a few feelings of anxiety over spending the first night together as a married couple

For many couples the honeymoon wedding night is the first time they are intimate together or it holds a special meaning of being intimate for the first time after being married Such significance can put pressure on a happy and natural experience

Wedding jitters are normal as are honeymoon and wedding night jitters But just as wedding trends have changed through the years so too have beliefs about the wedding night Knowing about

shifting trends can alleviate some of the nervousness

According to a recent survey from Brides magazine one in three brides plan to get into bed on the wedding night and hellip sleep After all of the hoopla of planning and enjoying the wedding most people are exhausted Others say they plan to stay up and relive moments of the day Only about half of all couples think they will consummate the marriage on their wedding night

Taking the pressure off of the wedding night means that the rest of the honeymoon may be filled with opportunities to be amorous But couples may still be filled with expectations for the

perfect romantic retreat Here are some things to think about

bull Accept the fact that some wedding nights and honeymoons arenrsquot exactly whatrsquos pictured in the movies Donrsquot try to live up to a Hollywood-inspired ideal or you may be let down when things donrsquot go your way In other words it may rain on your beachside liaison

bull A wedding requires a lot of work Many people find themselves to be physically exhausted afterward Others find they are so wound up that they cannot relax When the mind or body is on adrenaline overload or completely wiped out itrsquos not the ideal situation for romantic endeavors

bull Try to make the honeymoon stand apart from other nights by packing nice lingerie or nighttime attire so that the memories will be special There will be plenty of other times down the road when yoursquore an old married couple to hop between the sheets in a ratty college T-shirt

bull Pack some candles and mood music or ask the resort to handle these details for you These items can help set the scene

bull Make sure your packing list includes special toiletries and birth control methods if yoursquore not ready to start a family so soon after being married The brands you prefer may be hard to acquire while at some honeymoon locations

HOW-TOhoneymoon

20 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

1314A Esquimalt Rd I 2508962547victoriathaiyogamassagecom I mia_thaimassageyahoocom

Metta in MotionYoga classes and Thai massage

Metta - Loving Kindness - Compassionate TouchCouples Thai Massage Workshop - February 18

In this one day workshop you and your partner will learn new waysto give each other nurturing touch through Thai Yoga Massage

2506868155 bull infosharonraicom bull wwwsharonraicom

Hair amp Makeup

SHARON RAIHAIR amp MAKEUP ARTISTRYreg

On-Location bull In-Studio

BridalLUXURY

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

Knickerbockerrsquos Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria BC250-658-5578

wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 21: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 21

MOST pOpULAR

For many couples a honeymoon is just as important as the wedding ceremony Such couples seek the best in a vacation destination and understandably so after surviving the stress of planning a wedding

A honeymoon is often a necessary respite after several months or years of planning a wedding Careful consideration goes into where a honeymoon will take place Depending on a couplersquos interests it could be a ski resort or a tropical paradise

Here are some of the top spots for honeymoon destinations

Hawaii This group of islands consistently ranks as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations Once outside the tourist areas there are plenty of places for serene reflection and one-on-one privacy With its mountainous landscape beautiful foliage and awe-inspiring ocean the islands of Hawaii can be the perfect locale for honeymoon blissItaly Italy is the perfect marriage of Old World charm and modern conveniences Honeymooners can pick from retreats in the country to cliffside resorts

St Lucia St Lucia is one of the Caribbeanrsquos lushest islands Picturesque plantations and lapping waters are just some of the attractions of this island paradise

Tahiti Therersquos something quite alluring about this South Pacific locale Tahiti towers over the ocean with mountainous ridges but also lush tropical areas Tahiti is known for fine dining and plenty of water-based activities

Mexico With close proximity to the United States -- within driving distance for some -- the tropical resorts of Mexico entice many honeymooners each year

Jamaica What better way to spend a honeymoon than on the laid-back tropical island of Jamaica In proximity to Cuba and the Dominican Republic Jamaica is the third-largest English

speaking country behind the US and Canada

France True romantics may desire honeymooning in the city of romance Paris With spectacular sights fine cuisine and many historical points of interest France is often a top destination for couples

Bermuda This island is a British territory in North American waters Bermudarsquos nearest land mass is Cape Hatteras NC Bermuda has a very affluent economy with finance as its largest sector followed by tourism It is a popular cruise ship port of call Sandy white beaches and close proximity to the US make it a favorite for honeymoons

US Virgin Islands If you want a tropical honeymoon getaway without the hassle of passport travel consider the islands of St Thomas St John and St Croix Surrounded by pristine waters and spectacular ocean life honeymooners who want fun in the sun need not look any further

South Africa Experience awe-inspiring wildlife on safari or modern cities and exclusive neighborhoods

honeymoon destinations

ldquoEqual Payments No Interestrdquo offer Pay in 12 or 24 monthly installments only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg Searsreg Voyagetrade MasterCardreg or Sears Card Administration fee (except in Quebec) 12 month offer - $6499 24 month offer - $8499 and no minimum purchase (except in Quebec $200 minimum purchase required) Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes administration fee and applicable taxes) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments are paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date installment posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to your account See Cardmember Agreement for more details Pay in 12 monthly installments on approved credit only on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card Admin fee of $59 (excluding Quebec) In Quebec minimum purchase of $200 required Interest will accrue on fi nanced amount (which includes admin fee and applicable taxes and delivery charges) at the rate then in force for purchase transactions but will be waived if monthly installments paid in full when due If not paid in full when due interest on unpaid monthly installment accrued from the date posted to account will no longer be waived and will be charged to account If account falls 4 billing cycles past due offer terminates and interest on unpaid balance of fi nanced amount accrued from posting date will no longer be waived and will be charged to account See Cardmember Agreement for more details See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions To earn this voucher your minimum booking of 10 rooms must be made at least 120 days prior to departure The voucher is issued in the name of the bridal couple with tickets The voucher is non-transferable and must be redeemed by October 31 2013 subject to change without notice Rooms must be booked in conjunction with Sunquest charter air dagger Complimentary invitations and thank you cards are for couples getting married in select destinations Quantities may be limited When you book on your Searsreg Mastercardreg or Sears Card Sears Clubtrade Points do not apply to taxes daggerdagger Instant Sears Clubtrade Points redemption is only available at Sears Travel in-store locations Offer not available on searstravelca or 1-866-359-7327 Balance due after points redemption must be on your Searsreg MasterCardreg or Sears Card No other form of payment may be applied Offer is only applicable with participating suppliers Financing options may be applied to the balance due with participating suppliers If a fi nancing option is chosen Sears Clubtrade Points will not be received on the balance due Some restrictions apply See Sears Travel in store locations or call 1-866-359-7327 for complete details terms amp conditions copy2011 Thomas Cook Canada Inc dba Sears Travel Service BC Reg No 3597 Ont Reg 50010226 Quebec Permit Holder ndash OPC 702734 75 Eglinton Ave E Toronto ON M4P 3A4 Sears Financialtrade MasterCardreg Sears Financialtrade Voyagetrade MasterCardreg and Sears Card are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank NA ldquoSearsrdquo is a registered trademark of Sears licensed for use in Canada MasterCardreg and the MasterCard Brand Mark are registered Trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated

Every trip has its rewardstrade

RECEIVE A $500FUTURE TRAVEL VOUCHERWhen you book your wedding group

bull Complimentary personalized wedding invitations amp thank you cardsdagger

bull Group pricing and travel arrangements for your family and friends

bull Earn and instantly redeem valuable Sears Club Points to use towards your next vacation or Sears merchandisedaggerdagger

NO MONEY DOWN NO INTERESTPay in 12 or 24 Equal Monthly Installmentstrade

when you book your next vacation with your Sears Financialtrade Credit Card

Sears Travel Victoria Hillside Shopping Centre (250) 595-3622

travelreg

2187 Oak Bay Avenue bull wwwathlonetravelcom250 598 5252 bull Out of town 1 888 987 2351 Trav

elAthlone

Planning a destination wedding or looking for the

ultimate honeymoon

The Team at Athlone Travelis waiting to assist you

BeautifulBeginnings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

Knickerbockerrsquos Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria BC250-658-5578

wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 22: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

22 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Cost-conscious couples today seek different ways they can reduce expenses on their weddings Do-it-yourself weddings have grown in popularity and creating personalized wedding invitations is one way to save money and dream up something specialWedding invitations can range in price depending on the service used Many brick-and-mortar printing companies have gone by the wayside and online printing sources have replaced them The reduced overhead means that many online retailers can produce wedding invitations at a lower cost than in years past That doesnrsquot mean they are cheap however Couples can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 on invitations depending on style and quantity according to estimates from many printing company websites To avoid overpaying for wedding invitations or simply to create a personalized invitation many couples are opting to go the do-it-yourself route DIY invitations are even more common thanks to the popularity of scrapbooking and papercrafting Although people may have different standards in terms of quality for their invitations itrsquos important to realize the invitation is the first thing guests often see concerning the

wedding and they will help set the tone of the upcoming nuptialsHere are some choices to considerbull Design it yourself but hire a printer Couples can visit websites that enable them to choose paper type ink colour a certain template wording colour scheme embellishments dye-cutting and many other different options Then the couple sits back and waits for the invites to come in the mail where they are put together before being sent out These may be the most expensive of the DIY invites because a printer is still doing much of the workbull Use wedding invitation kits Many stationery shops craft stores and office supply retailers offer all-in-one kits These feature a standard design with the accoutrements of that particular design Most will come with envelopes and small response cards The couple simply uses the template provided to create text on a personal computer and then the invite can be run through a home printerbull Mix and match components Couples who want to be a little more hands-on can purchase card stock and envelopes separately and design their own invitations according to their colour scheme Clip art included with some word processing or design software can embellish invites that are then printed on

a home printer Ribbon can be added by punching holes into the invite and threading the ribbon throughbull Do it all yourself The truly crafty couple can make their invitations from scratch This involves drawing out a template cutting the card stock to fit selecting envelopes creating and executing response cards and decorating the invitations as they see fit This will require some tools including scrapbooking or papercrafting supplies A paper trimmer will help ensure straight cuts and decorative-edged scissors can help hide any small mistakes in the edges While this may be a cheaper option if couples get good prices on all the paper components it also entails the most work and the greatest margin of errorSaving money on wedding components is essential for many couples Choosing to take on some aspects of invitation creation can help reduce costs and personalize the event even more

Make-your-ownWEDDING INVITATIONS

ldquoStay calm and remember this special

day is for BOTH of you Think ndash Husband

and Wiferdquo

ndash Baden-Baden Boutique

US PatNo 7007507 copy All rights reserved

Knickerbockerrsquos Seaside2536 Beacon AveSidney BC250-656-5506

Knickerbockerrsquos Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd Brentwood Bay BC250-544-8211

Knickerbockerrsquos Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria BC250-658-5578

wwwknickerbockersca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fi ne jewelry industry for almost 30 years and is world-renowned for its high-quality hand fi nished design Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10000 points of salePANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December inside Knickerbockerrsquos at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria BC Knickerbockerrsquos has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008 and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood BayldquoWomen in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality and wersquore excited to off er them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the AutumnWinter collection at our new storerdquo said Kristine Flater owner of Knickerbockerrsquos

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world No two pieces are ever exactly alike ndash refl ecting the individuality of every woman who wears it

wedding tip

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 23: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW 23

Laser Hair Removal

2509844627 bull 1139 Yates Street250 984 4627 1139 Y SYour Health We Can Help

Eyebrows $700

Upper Lip $500

Full Face $2500

Threading

Upper Lip amp Chin

$8995per session

Bikini $9499

per session

Brazilian $14999

per session

Millstream Floral Depart (250) 391-1110

Yates Victoria Flower Gallery (888) 245-4444wwwvictoriafl owergallerycom

Wedding Floralsto have and to holdbull Bridal Bouquetsbull Bridesmaid Bouquetsbull Ceremony Floralsbull Reception Centrepieces

Hosted by Parkside Victoria Resort amp Spa

wwwthevictoriaweddingprojectcom

Coming Soon

2012

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

Page 24: Jan 11,2012 Weddings

Proud supporter of

RADIANTThanks to COSMEDICA

WWWCOSMEDICACA | TEL 2505983300 | TOLL FREE 18775983380 FACEBOOKCOMCOSMEDICA

On this day photographs capture each memory and hold them in time forever more On

this day all eyes are on you Cosmedica is pleased to specialize in bridal skin preparation

for brides and mothers Look and feel picture perfect with glowing skin from Cosmedica

Plan your bridal skin program today

COSM_6464_COSM10121indd 1 122111 93556 AM

24 JANUARY 11 2012 bull VICTORIA NEWS bull OAK BAY NEWS bull SAANICH NEWS bull GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE bull PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW