Weddings and the City...

DreamGroup client, Suzie Moldowan, brought Associate Planner, Alicia Keats, on board last year to assist her with the planning of her 2010 wedding. Since then, Alicia and the rest of DreamGroup have been enjoying some of the most entertaining writing DreamGroup has ever seen! Hope you enjoy this week's glimpse into Suzie's planning journey as much as we did!

Hi hi Alicia!


My goodness time has flown by. Can't believe that it is almost June. Moreover, can't believe that we are getting married in 2 months....this is particularly frightening given my waistline at the moment.


Have to wonder how long I can use the "just had a baby" excuse to explain away the spare tire I am carrying around my mid-section. Might have to lie and blame Mischa as he obviously is forcing cake and cookies on me in an effort to out shine me on our special day.


I am sooooo on to him.


Nonetheless, in true form, I am ready to conquer the day and will start by responding to your lovely email. I have already changed 2 diapers worthy of a hazmat team and have a local SWAT team on speed dial as Reese has turned into psycho baby thanks to new teeth popping up. I swear I saw her eyes change colour yesterday as she took on an appearance close to devil spawn.


Not happy. Thank god she is so damn cute 'cause she is a poster child for ear plugs right now.


Moving along, I have some good news. Pucks are ordered and en route. They will be here on the 31st. Moreover, I have something so cool to show you (for the kids) that I haven't even shared with Mom yet! God I love these and when I showed Misch, I think he wished he was joining the under age crew instead of the adults, giggle. More to the point, when I came across these little gems they literally called out to me. I now believe that any expenditures that I incur are out of my control as I am being guided by a higher power. Can't help it....the cosmos are infusing me with credit card splendour and well, I am helpless really. Furthermore, who am I to fuss with karmic destiny?


Don't want to piss off any man on a mountain for fear that I will misalign my inner chi, chu...or is it cha? Which reminds me, I could go for a chai.


Anyways, back on track here. Let me address some of my homework.


In terms of Jamie, give her another email please. She is crazy busy and we have attempted to chat more than a few times but to no avail. She might need a few emails to get a response. Persistence is the key with her. Thanks for this in advance.


I am looking forward to seeing the bags. I trust they will look fabulous and truth be told, I am so attracted to anything that involves the word shopping that even the scent of grocery shopping gets me excited these days. Thus, I am feeling an affinity with these wonderful wedding "favours" which I am certain will contribute to my overall well being.


Sad I know but cut me some slack - my best audience is a 10 month old and spending the day pureeing fruit and vegetables is normal for me. Little things make me happy it seems.


I can confirm that the deposit to Sarah was mailed and the one to Houle was as well. I haven't gotten confirmation from either though so is a call warranted? Let me know your thoughts on this.


We are finally shooting our engagement shoot with Scott this weekend Sunday)! Indeed, the "engagement" premise seems slightly lost but so are our tans so no harm, no foul. I have instructed Mischa to practice his "I am so over the moon in love with you and my life is nothing without you" look but I am afraid that all I have witnessed is him "vogueing", naked if I might add, admiring his man pecks. Random double takes seem to be his style at the moment and I am prepared to see an engagement book that resembles a photographic slideshow from the early 80's. Think Simon Le Bon meets bald German with strong love of self.

Logistics for street hockey are not coming along yet but will. I am taking a trip into the school next week as we are interviewing for teh other grade 7 position at the school...someone I will be working closely with so I am anxious to be a part of the decision. I will ask about borrowing the equipment etc and get back to you on this.


TCC sleepover is a work in progress. I vow to get this to you by the end of the month. Promise.


Wedding accommodations still not booked but will be....


We are ring shopping this week, yikes. Still explaining to him why a twist tie is inappropriate and moreover, why we CANNOT go to the mall, put a quarter in the machine, crack open the plastic egg and use that for a ring. God help me on this one.


Crap....Reese is gurgling...soon to be followed by a blood curdling scream if I don't hurry up.


Last few things to share:


Country Club fell through for rehearsal dinner but we have booked Brock House instead - Mom and I are meeting with them tomorrow to discuss details and view the space. I am actually much happier with this.


Mom and I will get the invitations out next week also.


Hmmm, know I am forgetting something but can't think with Reese stirring. Hope this helps! Looking forward to seeing you soon and will write again in the near
future.


Talk soon,


Suze

Friday's Fabulous Find: Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors!

Still looking for the perfect wedding favors? Want to do your part to help the environment too? Then check out these fabulous wedding favor ideas that are also great for the environment!

These mini drawstring bags can be used to gift wrap a wide range of favor options. Made of Organic Cotton, these small bags can make a big difference. Available with two print designs that convey a "green" message.

This "handy" Salad Server Set is a useful culinary gadget that is also environmentally friendly. Made out of Bamboo, this set makes a great gift for your guests, especially those that love to cook.

Check out the rest of the DG Boutique for more Eco-Friendly wedding favors PLUS lots of other great items!

DreamGroup’s Wedding Wednesday: Tip of the Week

Selecting your MC...

In one sentence, the Emcee’s job is to make sure the “official” part of the reception –- the speeches and toasts part -- runs smoothly. He/She usually begins by inviting the guests to be seated for dinner, welcomes guests to the wedding (thanking out-of-towners individually is often a nice gesture), introduces the wedding party and guests seated at the head table (sometimes one and the same, but not always), and introduces the speakers and anyone else who is scheduled to make toasts or speeches. Being selected to fill this role is quite an honor and should be treated with respect by your selected candidate.

So, who is a good candidate to fill this coveted role?

In a perfect world, your MC:

• is not in the wedding party
• has a good sense of humour
• is comfortable in front of an audience
• knows the couple’s history
• is excited at the opportunity
• is able to restrain from drinking until after dinner (for the most part)

Before the wedding, talk with your MC and let him or her know who will need an introduction at the reception and who will be making a speech or toast. You may need to collect your thoughts and compile a list over a period of time, but try to get that information to your MC no later than six weeks prior to the reception. Your Wedding Planners will prepare a timeline and let the speakers know ahead of time when they can expect to be called upon to make their toast/speech (i.e. after the 2nd course, before dessert, etc.) as well, but its a good idea for your MC to be prepared.

In most cases the Emcee is also asked to announce the ‘special events’ of the night (i.e. bride and groom’s arrival, cake cutting, first dance, Father-daughter dance, bouquet toss, bride and groom’s departure, etc.), but in some cases this is the role taken on by that of a professional DJ. A few days prior to the wedding provide your MC information about the layout of the reception space and whether he or she will be provided with a podium and/or microphone. The more they know about the onsite arrangements, the more comfortable they will be in their role. Make sure to suggest that he or she also familiarize themselves with the location of the washrooms as well as where the designated smoking area is located (if applicable).

One final bit of advice that you should be sure to pass on… ask your designated MC to try not to drink more than two or three drinks prior to fulfilling their evening obligations. There’s nothing worse than a bride and groom embarrassed by an intoxicated Emcee blabbing away the whole night.

Just remember...if you choose wisely and pass along these simple tips then you and your MC will be sure have a fabulous and memorable evening!

Good luck!

Friday's Fabulous Find: Fun Fruit Themed Favors!

Orchard International has just introduced these fabulously adorable Fruit Shaped Note Pads that would make perfect wedding favors for any "Springtime", "Summer Orchard" or "Fresh Fruit" themed weddings!

Each note pad comes with a paper clip, mesh fruit net

and is packed in its own poly bag.

Each piece of fruit contains 150 pages for your notes.

Each piece measures 9cm in diameter and 10.4cm tall.

Contact Tannis Wengel at Orchard International for more information or to order your Fruit Shaped Note Pads today!

DreamGroup’s Wedding Wednesday: Tip of the Week

Its time to start looking for your bridesmaid or groomsman gifts...

Here is one idea that we LOVE:

A seamless marriage of function and design, Chilewich and Griffin have collaborated on this case which fits the iphone 3G and 3GS models.

A Griffin-engineered polycarbonate shell provides the foundation of the case. Chilewich's signature mini-basketweave texture is adhered to the 2-piece Griffin EasyDock design, resulting in case which is both rugged and beautiful.The two-piece Griffin EasyDock design provides access to all controls and ports, and allows quick docking without removing the case.

Available in either gravel or light gray, $39.99.

Pick yours up at Homewerx today!

Here are a few of our other favourite spots to pick up

great bridesmaid or groomsman gifts:

Retail:

• The Cross
• Chintz & Company
• Jeweliette
• Lou Lou Love

Online:

• DreamGroup Boutique
• Bombshell Bargains
• Sugarlime
• Things Remembered

And a couple of great shops just for the guys:

• Revolucion Cigars & Fine Gifts
• Obsessions

Leanne & Justin's Engagement Shoot!

Leanne and Justin are getting married this summer and just had their engagement shoot with Jeanie Ow of Studio Jeanie. The shots below are a sample of the gorgeous photos from that shoot!

To see more of this fabulous shoot...check out Studio Jeanie's Blog!

Friday's Fabulous Find: These cupcakes shouldn’t be kept a secret any longer!

Recently, we at DreamGroup have come across a company that makes the most amazingly mouth-watering baked goods we have ever tasted! So, naturally we HAD to blog about them so that everyone we know could enjoy these fabulous little treats as much as we do!

Bake Sale Baking Co. is a dessert catering company specializing in baked goods from childhood. All of their treats are baked in small batches and are 100% preservative free - just how grandma used to make them!

Our personal favourite item on their menu would have to be the "Old School Cupcakes" which can be made in any of their 14 fabulous cake flavours, including:

• Red Velvet (mild cocoa cake tinted red & cream cheese frosting)
• Blackout (chocolate cake, chocolate pudding & chocolate crumbs)
• Malted (moist malted Chocolate cake & malted vanilla frosting)
• Banana (moist banana cake & cream cheese frosting)
• Cheesecake (classic new york style)
• check out their full menu here

And to go along with your mouthwatering, must-have cupcakes, why not rent this fabulous one of a kind cupcake stand as well...?

This custom, one-of-a-kind damask stand is a great modern alternative to the traditional cupcake or cake stand.

Cake Stand; 13" square base $30.00

Cake Stand; 16" square base $35.00

Cake Stand; 18" square base $45.00

Cupcake Stand $75.00

Delivery only; within in the Lower Mainlaind $50.00

To rent your cupcake or cake stand, please contact us at info@dreamgroup.ca or 604.537.3575

DreamGroup's Wedding Tip of the Week

Time to buy the Pretty Sparkly Things!

Shopping for your wedding jewellery amongst all that sparkles can feel like an overwhelming task but we've compiled a list of our favourite places to buy your jewellery and perhaps a glittery thing or two for your bridesmaids as well!

Jeweliette

Playground to Vancouver's premier stylists and costume designers, Jeweliette offers an exciting collection of fashion jewelery and must-have accessories. From Bohemian to Glamourous, Jeweliette makes it possible for every diva to define glamour in her own unique style.

Total Image by Susan

All pieces are created with top quality components such as Freshwater Pearls, Swarovski Crystals and Semi-precious stones. Chain, earring hoops, studs and clasps are Sterling silver or 12K gold filled. All pieces are presented in a gift bag or box.

Sugarlime

Sugarlime has become an international icon with a growing list of celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston, Feist, Rachel McAdams, Kim Cattrall and Rebecca Romijn to name a few.

Sugarlime Jewelry is known for its trend-setting, high-end but affordable fashion jewelry designed with only the finest in hand-selected semi-precious stones, Swarovski crystals, fresh water pearls, charms and unique chains.

Claire Earrings

Joannie Necklace

Sasha Earrings

Clara Bracelet

Dakota Earrings

Weddings and the City...

DreamGroup's very own "Carrie Bradshaw", Suzie Moldowan, brought DreamGroup on board last year to assist her with the planning of her 2010 wedding. Since then, Associate Planner, Alicia Keats, and the rest of DreamGroup have been enjoying one of the most entertaining writers DreamGroup has ever seen! This week's glimpse into Suzie's planning journey is by FAR one of the most hilarious yet...enjoy!

Morning Alicia,

I thought it was about time to get back "in the loop" as I feel I have been dropping the literary ball to say the least. More to the point, I have not forced myself to think of anything beyond tomorrow's grocery list and this is growing old to say the least.

Now, having said that, I feel it necessary to use this email as a confession of sorts. More importantly, and to be honest, I fear that with motherhood has come a certain level of stupidity. Throw in an upcoming wedding and well, hey, you've got a recipe for craziness, no?

At this point, I require you to close your eyes and imagine all things holy (I am having you do this as I will most certainly be struck by lightening given my unholy and somewhat debaucherous lifestyle).

Hmmm, is that a word? Debaucherous? Oh well, it is now.

Anyways, please cue angels humming in the background as well and, just for spice, let's throw in a rockin' gospel choir too. Love them gospel singers!

Now, make your way into the confessional (you'll have to do this for me as well given my judaic roots) and sit down. You are ready.

Here it goes....

After I woke this morning and went through the regular routine of what morning brings: pee, baby, dirty diaper, nurse, clean any leftover dishes from soon to be's midnight snack, make breakfast for baby etc...I realized that I was getting anxious if not eager - much like I do every morning. But why? Why was I feeling giddy when there was clearly nothing exciting going on? Then it hit me.

Oh god. I can't believe I am admitting this.

I realized, moreover I had a revelation, that I, a well educated, competent, strong woman was anxiously awaiting the start of "Rich Bride, Poor Bride." A show on the Slice network that I think relegates me to some status unbecoming of ...well...I dunno. To make matters worse, once the program actually came on, I found myself spewing a litany of expletives once I learned that it was a repeat!

By god! How dare these people play with my sanity. I have small moments in the day that remind me I am an adult and this, sadly I know, is one of them. Just knowing that I myself am in the middle of planning a wedding, MY wedding, and with the help of a planner allows me to remind myself that I too am at an age that grants me certain privileges. I am more than a diaper changing, food pureeing, un-glamourous mommy. By golly, I am an engaged woman!

Indeed, in desperate need of a makeover which can easily be seen in that I have yet to put on a bra this week - not a pretty site given that I am still breastfeeding. Moving on....

On that note, while I have surrendered to "Say Yes to the Dress" and other such wedding cult shows, I have begun to suppress the shame. I have yet to figure out whether or not this is a good thing. At first, I told myself that I was falling victim in an effort to gain inspiration for my big day but once Mischa reminded me that that excuse didn't add up (primarily due to the fact that I had in fact purchased my dress within a month of the proposal), I soon realized I had to come up with some more reasons for my decline into the abyss of bad TV.

Having said that, and after another budget meeting yesterday with my fab planner, I now have learned that I have finally been heard by the buddha after all! Sweet jesus...he WAS listening!

Turns out that all those mornings that I insisted I was "educating" myself on how to stay within the budget have finally paid off! Yeehaw! Seems we are in fact not in the poor house just yet and after having it confirmed (by that amazing planner mentioned above) that we are saving here and balancing out there, we will still be able to "create, plan and wow!"

Start the parade folks cause this, in Moldowan-ese means more moula to play with! Ya! Ya! YYYYAAAAAAA! More shoes, more accessories, more details....the possibilities are endless really! Perhaps we'll have the aisle sprinkled with gold leaf? Maybe we can budget for personal servers to fan guests and supply grapes... I mean come on. There has to be some celebration. Some sort of recognition for all the hours I have spent on the couch, bouncing my daughter while "learning" how to manage my mom's money in the way of a budget?

Giggle. Giggle.

Ok Mom, settle down. No need to worry. I am fully aware that the grapes are excessive. We can talk more though, right?

Have a fabulous day ladies and be assured and comforted knowing that I am out there, keeping the slice channel in business, staying "current." Uh oh, gotta run. Wedding SOS is about to start!

Cheers!

Suzie

Click here to view Suzie's entire collection of entries so far!

DreamGroup Productions presents the 20th annual Brock House Wedding Show!

Known as one of Vancouver's best boutique wedding shows, the Brock House Wedding Show returns for what will undoubtedly be another amazing show.

Planning a wedding is a full time job. Let DreamGroup Productions & Brock House Restaurant make it easier by introducing you to some of the best wedding service providers Vancouver has to offer.

Whether you have yet to hire all your wedding vendors, or have only a couple left to decide upon, this event promises to Inspire, Inform, and Indulge every one of its attendees.

NEW this year! - VIP Tickets are available! They are $55 each (plus tax) and include: Guaranteed FRONT ROW seats at the Fashion Show and an exclusive VIP Gift Bag **ONLY 35 TICKETS AVAILABLE per show! These will sell out so get your tickets soon.

Sunday, October 24, 2010

11:00am-3:00pm and 3:00pm-7:00pm

with fashion shows at 1:00pm and 5:00pm

Location: Brock House Restaurant

3875 Point Grey Road, Vancouver (Jericho Beach)

Visit the official Brock House Wedding Show website for more information and advance tickets:

Tickets include:

• Passed Wine
• Delicious Hors D'oeuvres and Cocktail Fare
• Inspiring Fashion Show
• Live Music
• Fabulous Door Prizes from Participating Exhibitors
• Grand Prize Honeymoon Giveaway
• Exquisite Gift Bag for the Bride

Click Here to purchase your advance tickets through Clubzone.