Friday Fabulous Find Brings You A One Woman Shoe

WESTERLY Handmade Shoes

Renee Macdonald

Renee is a magnificent 1 woman show, creating handmade leather shoes for any special man.  Because not just anyone can be lucky enough to wear her shoes.

Renee uses the traditional methods of shoemaking, in the design, shaping and assembly, which is all done by hand.  Using the best materials available.  This allows for a "truly unique and enduring product every time".

One of the main accessories Brides excitedly purchase are shoes for their wedding day, and well what about the boys?!  

The process is very simple, contact Renee at WESTERLY Handmade Shoes, meet Renee and she gets to know your style and what it is that you're exactly looking for, from there she will create a masterpiece.

As Renee puts it best,

"WESTERLY HANDMADE SHOES are constructed for reliability, longevity, and beauty.  They are made to be worn and loved."

So Groom's, it's a great gift idea for your Bestman or for yourself!  Come on Brides, share the love on the day of the wedding and make it about him too!  But not to worry Brides, Renee does women's shoes also.

Its a gift that will last almost forever ;)

For further information or to contact Renee click here!

By Sandy Pandher, Associate Planner with DreamGroup Productions

With her "hands on" energetic approach to planning, Sandy offers a perfect balance between assertiveness and calmness -- two qualities instrumental in qualifying oneself as a great planner. This smart, savvy and dedicated planner's passion is in building relationships and connecting with each of her clients so that their wedding day can truly reflect who they are as a couple and what their love story symbolizes. Sandy is best suited to the busy Urban couple looking for a knowledgeable and intuitive planner to help bring their wedding vision to life.

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We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

Friday's Fabulous Finds You a Great Solution!

Brides and Bridesmaids...

Put on your Party Shoes!

Don't leave your beautiful wedding shoes to the side just because they might ruin if you wear them on the grass or gravel...

I understand with BC weather, it's hard to determine if the grounds will be dry on the day of your wedding, well fear not because there is a solution to this problem!  You can still rock it down the aisle in your Manolo Blahniks or Louboutins!...

Heel Protectors also known as Heel Huggers

Every bride in BC needs to own a few pairs of Heel Protectors also known as Heel Huggers.  They keep your heels from digging into the grass so you can walk down the aisle with confidence!

I recently had a Bride who had a beautiful pair of Manolo Blahnik's to wear for her outdoor Wedding, but as the grounds were wet outside and still thinking of having an outdoor wedding, she was worried about her gorgeous shoes being ruined...Well, thank goodness we knew about Heel Huggers!

The heel protectors come in different colours with clear and black being the most popular colours. 
Just think...no more heels digging into the grass, slipping on the dance floor, getting caught on the deck and no more worrying about losing your balance on loose gravel.

The 2 websites I recommend for purchasing these very helpful heel huggers are:

www.originalsole.com  

www.thesolemates.com

DG Advice:

Have the heel protectors available for those guests wearing heels in a basket by the guestbook sign in table

(they come in 3 different sizes: classic, narrow and wide for all heel types)

And be sure to give a pair to each one of your girls in your Wedding Party, they will Thank You!

By Sandy Pandher, Associate Planner with DreamGroup Productions

With her "hands on" energetic approach to planning, Sandy offers a perfect balance between assertiveness and calmness -- two qualities instrumental in qualifying oneself as a great planner. This smart, savvy and dedicated planner's passion is in building relationships and connecting with each of her clients so that their wedding day can truly reflect who they are as a couple and what their love story symbolizes. Sandy is best suited to the busy Urban couple looking for a knowledgeable and intuitive planner to help bring their wedding vision to life.

Click here to sign up for DreamGroup's Mailing list!

We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

Ask a Planner... "Shoe Deprived Bride"

Hi Geneve!

Okay, so what’s the deal with shoes in Vancouver?  I can't for the life of me find a decent pair of wedding shoes in this city!  I’ve tried Holt Renfrew (LOVE LOVE LOVE, but I can’t afford a $1000.00 for a pair of shoes I will only wear once), Robson Street…Pacific Centre... Where else do brides go?  And don’t say online cause I don’t buy shoes or clothing online as I’ve been disappointed too many times. With thanks!

Melia a "Shoe Deprived" Bride

Hello Shoe Deprived...

This is a super common Vancouver (and Canadian) Wedding dilemma!!  I wish I had $100.00 for every time a bride has asked this question over the past 12 years… I’d be rich and have the closet of shoes to show for it! :O)  Seriously though… it can feel like Vancouver is completely devoid of any really great shoe shops, but you just need to know where to look and get a little creative! Typically the “wedding dress shops” around town carry a very small selection of mostly traditional “wedding boats” – aka boxy satin pumps, but these days brides tend to want chic, shoestopping (hee hee), modern styles so… If the coveted Urban Bride “go to” Holts is above your price point than try your luck with these:

• The Bay Downtown http://www2.hbc.com/en/index.shtml  **You wouldn’t think it, but they have some fabulous designer options these days!
• Bisou Bridal http://www.bisoubridal.com **Small selection, but classic and elegant, no “shoe boats” here!
• Stuart Weitzman at Pacific Centre/Oakridge Mall http://www.stuartweitzman.com/  **Satin with big bows – yes please!!
• Jules & Eve in Kerrisdale http://julesandeve.com/  **very pretty shoes, slightly limited selection
• Lords on Granville Street http://www.lordsshoes.ca/ 
•  Anthropologie on Granville http://www.anthropologie.com  **Not a huge formal selection, but the ones that they do have are sparkly and unique!
• Town Shoes http://www.townshoes.com/  **Lower price point, lots of selection
• Ingledew’s http://www.ingledews.com/
• John Fluevog http://www.fluevog.com **For the quirky bride that wants to make a statement!

Alternatively…

• Cocopunkz http://cocopunkz.com/ **They make Custom Hand Painted Wedding Shoes and they are local!
• Front & Company on Main Street http://www.frontandcompany.ca  **The have a killer selection of consignment shoes… Could be your “something old” and the best part is they are already broken in!
• If your wedding is not until 2013… You could always try your luck at Army & Navy’s Annual Shoe Sale in April.  It’s pretty amazing!  Over 100,000 shoes under $40!!  

Wedding Planner signing off!  Until next week… keep those questions coming in!  Submit your questions by emailing us at askaplanner@dreamgroup.ca

Cheerio,

Genève 

Click here to See Inside the Book

Genève McNally, Principal Planner, DreamGroup Productions

Genève first began her wedding career in 1999 as the Catering Manager for one of Vancouver’s most sought after wedding venues, Brock House Restaurant.  In 2004 Genève and college friend Sarah Shore ambitiously started up what is now one of Vancouver's longest running and most trusted wedding planning companies, DreamGroup Productions Inc.

These days, in addition to working with her clients in a full planning capacity, Genève focuses her attention on the sales and marketing aspects of the company and is most often the friendly voice you will chat with when first inquiring with DreamGroup.  Genève is known to inspire and excite both clients and industry associates alike with her exuberant personality and joie de vivre!  Her ability to be refreshingly candid and her in depth knowledge of the wedding industry have earned her the friendly moniker “Two-Cents McNally”.  Genève also teaches the Wedding Planning classes offered through the dg Academy and is the chief correspondent behind DreamGroup's weekly Blog feature Ask a Planner.

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We promise to inspire, inform and indulge!

This week's Friday's Fabulous Find will make you feel like Cinderella!

 The perfect shoe for the perfect you! 

Let your personality shine through your tootsies with these unique & sooo...comfortable shoes.  

www.chiemihara.com

By Chie Mihara

Not only will your dreams come true on your wedding day by marrying the love of your life, you will be able to do it in style and dance the night away in comfort! 

 Every bride that tries on these shoes, doesn’t want to take them off!

 

 

www.chiemihara.com

Here's what the designer Chie Mihara, from Spain says about her creation:
She wants "to offer women something different, footwear designed by woman for women, with a priority placed on design and comfort.  We're mothers, working women, active women!" say's Chie.  "We should have shoes that match our needs.  We want to look feminine, beautiful, attractive but without giving up comfort".

Tip:

Your accessories on the day of your wedding is a great way to way to make a statement of your personality and the photographer can get some beautiful/creative shots!

 

www.chiemihara.com

Whatever the occasion, these heels will stay with you for many years to come.  If you are a bride or bride to be, may I suggest investing in a pair of Chie Mihara’s brilliantly designed shoes, they will take your breathe away!

To find these beauties, check out www.chiemihara.com  

or 

www.umeboshishoes.com

For more fabulous styles of shoes and where to purchase Chie Mihara check out Umeboshi  located at 3638 Main Street.

By Sandy Pandher, Associate Planner with DreamGroup Productions

With her "hands on" energetic approach to planning, Sandy offers a perfect balance between assertiveness and calmness -- two qualities instrumental in qualifying oneself as a great planner. This smart, savvy and dedicated planner's passion is in building relationships and connecting with each of her clients so that their wedding day can truly reflect who they are as a couple and what their love story symbolizes. Sandy is best suited to the busy Urban couple looking for a knowledgeable and intuitive planner to help bring their wedding vision to life.

Friday's Fabulous Find: Shoes, Shoes, Shoes...

This week's Fabulous Find will be spotlighted this January 22nd, 2012, at Style & Strut!

Find shoe mecca at the Holt Renfrew shoe department! Holt Renfrew carries the latest in footwear fashions for both you and your groom...

The shoe boutiques offer a selection of men's and women's shoes from noteworthy established and emerging designers including Derek Lam, Barker Black, Dolce & Gabbana, JimmyChoo, Marc Jacobs Collection, Marni, Balenciaga and Fendi, supporting Holt Renfrew's vision to be the best shopping experience with gorgeous fashions, entertaining stores and amazing service."

Check out some fabulous footwear for your walk down the aisle displayed on the Shoe Wall at Style & Strut. Be prepared to be wowed on Sunday, January 22nd, 2012, and find inspiration for all things bridal beauty, health & style... Get your tickets today!

Check out Holt Renfrew's shoe selection here!

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We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

Monday's Montage: Don't Fall Flat on Style...

With the growing trend of Brides swapping out of their traditional gowns before the reception in favour for a fun party dress, why not also step out of your heels for a pair of flats, that DON'T fall flat on style!

Check out some lovely "heel-less" shoes tracked down by Wedding Bells, that will keep you dancing into the wee hours without sacrificing on style.

These bejeweled flats are just as special as any sky-high heels, but won't have you reaching for the bandages by the time your vows are read.

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We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

DreamGroup welcomes Randy Fenoli of Say Yes to the Dress to Vancouver...

 

Style & Strut is Vancouver's Premier Bridal Fashion Event geared specifically at inspiring the Bride in creating and assembling her perfect personal wedding style!  It's an afternoon filled with everything beauty, health, and style!  From Fashion Shows and onsite Beauty Treatments to a very special presentation by Randy Fenoli, Fashion Director at Kleinfeld and Star of TLC's Say Yes to the Dress this is an event you do not want to miss! Focusing on fashion and beauty for the modern and elegant metropolitan bride, this event promises to excite and indulge every one of its attendees.

Style & Strut  ~ Vancouver's Premier Bridal Fashion Event

Sunday, January 22, 2012  

The Sutton Place Hotel

845 Burrard St Vancouver

Tel: 604 537-3575

Email: info@dreamgroup.ca

Web: www.styleandstrut.com

Due to the strong interest in this event, the intimate setting, and limited # of seats available you must pre-purchase your tickets.  Tickets will not be sold at the door.  Available online Now.

WIN A PERSONAL MEET & GREET WITH RANDY FENOLI!

plus...

When you purchase a "Style & Strut VIP Pass", you will automatically be entered to win a chance to WIN A PERSONAL MEET  & GREET WITH RANDY FENOLI! 

A lucky winner & 3 of her friends will win the Style & Strut VIP Treatment Package:

- The night before the show, the lucky Bride and her friends will get picked up by LIMO from the Sutton Place Hotel and taken out for dinner at a downtown restaurant 

- At the end of the night, the Bride and her friends will return to the Sutton Place Hotel where they will stay overnight in a two bedroom Grand Suite with a bottle of champagne

- In the morning, the Bride and her friends will enjoy Sutton Place's Jazz Brunch buffet in Fleuri Restaurant and a A PERSONAL MEET  & GREET WITH RANDY FENOLI!  

Get Your Tickets Now.

Wedding Shoe Shopping!

When shopping for your shoes really keep in mind the amount of territory you will cover on the big day. From the walk down the aisle, to the post-photo session, and making it through to your last dance; a comfortable shoe is more than likely going to carry you through it all. Even if those beautiful, crimson pumps, which painfully pinch your toes, are calling your name, resist the urge! Put the shoes down and keep on shopping...

The higher the heel, the better the feel - not necessarily! If you're not a high-heeled veteran, consider the more modest, yet timelessly stylish, kitten heel. However, if you would put even Victoria Beckham to shame with your high-heeled skills, then shop away!

If you're the traditional bride, an elegant silk or satin finish will complete your classic look. However, the shoes have become the Bride's opportunity to really spice up her ensemble and bring that extra flare. Be it ruby red, sequined platforms or leopard print peep-toes, have fun with your footwear selection and make it your own!

If your love for footwear was heightened by the coveted closet of Carrie Bradshaw, this DIY tip is for you! In a memorable episode of Sex and the City, Carrie peers through a shop window at a pair of pink petal Christin Louboutins and utters "Hello lover..." She had found her perfect "solemate" for a night on the town with Mr. Big.

If these beautiful shoes are beyond your budget, this DIY from stylish blogger Maegan, is for you! Start with the following materials in your choice of colour:

• Strappy Sandals
• Polyester sheer fabric
• 6/8" satin ribbon
• Double stick velcro

Cut leaves out of the fabric, and three larger bases for each (don't worry, they don't have to be perfect!). Next, measure the ribbon so that there's enough space to fold over each end under the strap.

Stitch on bases, pinching a bit to pucker - add leaves on top of the bases using the same method and build up to your desired fullness!

Measure and add Velcro, add a few stitches, and strap on your chic creation... Carrie Bradshaw approved!

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We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

Monday's Montage: This week's theme...Fabulous Footwear!

Choose your shoes to reflect your personal style and flair. Have fun with your wedding footwear, play with colour, fabric, sheen, and height. Just be sure you know how high you're comfortable to go before shopping for your gown, or making any alterations in length.

Find the perfect pair that will carry you throughout your special day! Be true to yourself, if you typically sport ballet flats, the higher the heel may not necessarily be, the better the feel.

If you've found your fabulous footwear but still need that extra bit of comfort and cushion, don't forget to enter DG's Monthly Giveaway from Stiletto Hardware. Simply 'like' the Stiletto Hardware Facebook page and you'll automatically be entered.

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We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

Wedding Belles (and Whistles)

Be the bell of the ball in Kate Spade's new Wedding Belles (and whistles) collection! Kate Spade's celebratory line includes dresses, jewelery, heels, and even a Honeymoon collection.

Perfect for the bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, send-off brunch or any wedding occasion. True to Kate Spade's signature design, the styles are classic and elegant with a touch of whimsy!

To view the collection for yourself, click here!

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We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

Colour of the Year...

Brighten up those 'April Showers' with 2011's Colour of the Year: Honeysuckle.

Courtesy of The Vancouver Sun...

Pantone, the world renowned authority on colour, influences the colours of what we wear, decorate with and even eat off of. Honeysuckle is a happy, energy-boosting hue perfect for the arrival of Spring!

This bold shade is a reddish pink with a blue undertone, and possesses a sophisticated quality. Incorporate this year's top pick in your wedding decor or ensemble. Embrace a pop of Honeysuckle with your makeup palette, pair of pumps, fresh florals or wherever you want to make a bold statement.

The shade works wells with rich charcoal, taupe, white, cream, gold or butter yellow. The vibrant quality of Honeysuckle will add a pop of style and whimsy in any way you choose!

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We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

Friday's Fabulous Find...

Add a pop of colour and innovative design to your wedding ensemble with Cocopunkz's one-of-a-kind stylish shoes! These hand-painted pumps feature elaborate illustrations and vivid colours.

Cocopunkz's wearable pieces of art are created by local talent Ada Fu and Miranda Pang. This dynamic duo brought their artistic skills and fondness of footwear together to create some unforgettable heels for the fashion-forward girl.

To create your very own customized pair, visit cocopunks.com to get started!

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We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

Special Offer to our Readers...

For all those considering purchasing a Bhold Shoe Bag, here's one more incentive besides their practical and stylish design...

Readers will receive 10% discount on any bag(s) of your choice! Simply use the coupon code BBDG10 at the checkout. This discount will be valid until September 16th!

Click here to start shopping now...

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Be Bhold

Looking for the perfect Bride or Bridesmaids Gifts? Check out Bhold Bags beautiful selection of shoe bags, a style gift to protect those perfect pair of pumps!

Every Bhold Shoe Bag is lined and made with a separator inside to keep each shoe protected individually. Whether you're travelling to the chapel, to the reception or to your honeymoon, pack your Bhold Bag to keep your beloved heels in tiptop shape!

With a wide assortment of colours and fabrics, Bhold Bags have become popular among Brides seeking a unique and useful gift for her Bridesmaids (or for herself)! The line of Bhold Man Shoe Bags is equally stylish for the Groom and Groomsmen.

Bhold Shoe Bags can also be the perfect carrying case when gifting a bottle of wine or two. Your recipient can later reuse it as a shoe bag...a gift that keeps on giving?

Visit BholdBags.com: where Fashion meets Function!

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