Friday's Fabulous Find takes you to Trendy Vancouver Eateries to Check out!

The fabulous photographer Jeanie Ow of Studio Jeanie always has her finger on the pulse of the fun and hot spots to go in the trendy parts of Vancouver...Here are a list of her favorites to stop in on the next time you are in the neighborhood.

What are you craving?

Main Street

• The Wallflower Modern Diner

• The Whip

• Cafe Nuba

• East is East

• Crave on Main

• Burgoo

Commercial Drive  -  I'm not really familiar with this neighbourhood but here are a few of my oldies-but-goodies:

• The Havana

• Lombardo's Pizzeria

• Red Pagoda

• Harambe

• Palki

• Little Nest

Happy Tastebud Tickling!

What is your favorite Vancouver neighborhood eatery?...

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

We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

Ask a Planner... "Should I FIRE my Maid of Honour?"

Hello Dreamgroup,

Question: Have you ever heard of anyone firing their Maid of Honour?  I’m really annoyed with mine!  She has not planned anything for my wedding, constantly complains about stuff like that I chose strapless bridesmaid dresses, and is just plain poopy all around.  I realize I could be coming across as a total bridezilla right now, but I’m seriously upset and quite disappointed with her.  Isn't the Maid of Honour supposed to plan your stagette and shower and offer to help with planning and be a positive force in your life?  Maybe that’s just in the movies. 

Thanks…

Susie, a super annoyed bride to be!

Hello Susie,

Thanks for reaching out… This is a tough one because friendship is at stake.  It’s hard to “fire” a bridesmaid or maid of honour without seriously compromising your relationship so you will certainly want to think carefully about how you will proceed. It is true your bridal attendants are supposed to be pillars of support during the planning of the wedding and on the day itself.  The idea is that when choosing your bridesmaids you appoint girlfriends that are already supportive and caring contributors in your life to begin with so that the transition to “wedding cheerleader” is not too much of a stretch. The Maid of Honour’s role is often a bit more hands on whereby they are expected to take the reins and initiate the arrangements behind all the “bridal occasions” that are celebrated leading up to the wedding.  I once had a client in a similar situation and gave her the same advice I will now share with you.   

The first thing you should do is arrange a time to sit down with your friend over coffee or a glass of wine and politely and calmly share your feelings with her.  Tell her you are feeling a little hurt by her attitude and that you wish she would step up a little bit and help initiate some of the plans for certain events surrounding the wedding.  If she is a true friend (which she likely is if you asked her to be your MOH) then she should understand where you are coming from.  She may be a little hurt or even surprised as most likely she is simply unaware of what her actions (or lack thereof) are doing to you.  Perhaps she has never been in a bridal party before and just doesn’t realize what the “job” of MOH entails.  

In the event that you talk it out and she doesn’t agree with you (in that she should be more supportive and take on some of the wedding responsibilities) then the next step will be to consider asking her to step down as MOH.  I would take a few days to think it over to be sure it’s the best step for you.  I realize this is a drastic course of action so what you need to do is fast forward to your wedding day and picture yourself walking down the aisle and standing up at the alter with this friend standing right next to you.  If she is going to conjure up feelings of frustration or resentment during what should be a very romantic and special moment in your life then I think the answer is obvious and you need to ask her to step down.  I think it’s important to ensure that the people standing up there with you are indeed your friends and your biggest supporters.  In my client’s case she appointed a childhood friend to the role of MOH because she felt it was the right thing to do, but later realized that she was no longer the close friend she was years ago.  My client ended up asking her friend to step down from the role and in the end she didn’t even come to the wedding (her choice).   

In summary, if you feel that this person is someone that you would not want to lose as a friend then talk it out and be honest as that’s what friends do.  If she does happen to be someone that perhaps is no longer meant to be a part of your life then asking her to step down will be a difficult, but in the end appropriate decision.  Best of luck!  Take care.  

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.

Click here to sign up for DreamGroup's Mailing list! 
We promise to inspire, inform and indulge!

Monday's Montage: Milk & Cookies Nightcap

Looking for a sweet way to end your wedding? I love the idea of sending guests off with the ultimate comfort treat, and these milk-and-cookie pairings are the perfect solution.  I mean really, who doesn’t love milk and cookies? There are so many fun and classy ways to serve these. Whether as an end of party snack in a short glass or martini glass or in a to-go bag with a carton of milk 

A night cap your guests will truly appreciate. Yum!

By Jayleen Deelman, Associate Planner with DreamGroup Productions

Jayleen Deelman has been with DreamGroup for 2 years and after proving herself as our Star Wedding Coordinator now takes on the role of Loving Planner. Jayleen is upbeat, good natured, and always smiling. She is attentive and with her passion for everything weddings she is key in carrying out a fluid and enjoyable wedding day experience. Clients adore her sweet disposition and her desire to make their wedding a memory they will never forget.

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

We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

Friday's Fabulous Find brings you something to watch!

I know it can be overwhelming with which videographer to use to capture all of the special moments in your wedding.  You might ask yourself, "who can I trust?"  There are a lot of amazing videographers in our city!  I would like to share one of them with you:

Since 2006, Realistically Fictional Productions (RF Productions) has collaborated with countless couples around the world in documenting their wedding with modern, cinematic elegance. An eclectic troupe of young and creative videographers, photographers, and producers has helped RF Productions distinguish itself from other wedding videography and photography vendors in Vancouver.

To showcase just some of the work RF Productions, check out their website:

www.rfproductions.ca

and click here to watch the lastest video rf Productions created for this DreamGroup Wedding! 

If you are anything like me and you can watch wedding video's for hours on end, why not have it be yours!

I know some clients ask "do we really need a videographer if we have a photographer?"

Here are some reasons to hire a videographer:

1. You won't miss what happend on your wedding day - There is a lot happening on your wedding day and some things you will miss because you might be getting pictures during cocktail reception. Or not be able to see what happened during the "getting ready" process before the ceremony, etc.  A video ensures you wll see the moments you may have missed.
2. To re-live your wedding day experience - To watch the beautiful memories again.
3. Your kids and grandkids will watch it and love it!
4. A video will show movement and the different sounds that filled your day, especially with those who you love dearly; parents and grandparents.

Happy Watching...

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!

 

 

Contest Winner Announced!

Congratulations to Alexis Rule who has won a 30 minute session with Hannah Fitness where she will get to implement a customized workout or weight loss program.

 

Check out Hannah's Facebook page for more information on Hannah Fitness

Ask a Planner... Mom hates Dad's new wife! Help!

Help!  I’m trying to figure out seating arrangements for my wedding and it’s proving difficult.  My parents are divorced and my Dad has recently remarried.  My mom does not feel very amicable towards him or his new wife and has asked me not to seat her at the Parent’s table which I understand, but how do I do that without completely offending his wife?

Thanks,

A Loyal Daughter

This is a toughie, but certainly a reality for many these days.  I would like to think that on a special day like your wedding parents would make every effort to remain civil and supportive, but certain circumstances can sometimes prevent even the most well intended and doting of parents from taking the high road. I don’t think asking your Father’s new wife to sit apart from him is appropriate at all so let’s look at some other alternatives that might maintain respect for and appease all involved parties. The first and simplest solution that comes to mind is in having three separate Parent’s Tables.  Your new in-laws would sit at one table, your Dad and his new wife at another table, and your Mom at a third table each surrounded by their family and/or close friends. Problem solved and a very sensible and expected scenario to be sure.

Another option pending the size of your wedding party and room configuration would be to create one large oval head table in the center of the room featuring the bride & groom, parents, the wedding party and even their spouses for a very grand effect. With this set-up the table would be large enough that you could seat your Dad and his wife at one end of the table and your Mom on the other end without them even needing to conduct any "small talk" whatsoever. I’ve included this "table of honour" scenario many times in recent weddings and it’s always a hit!  It's a very social and modern alternative to the traditional one-sided head table and allows everyone to be seated with the one they love.  This suggestion may simply be “too much love too soon” for your situation, but it would be a lovely way to unite your newly cultivated families and set a great example for everyone going forward!  Best of luck with your seating escapades!

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.

Click here to sign up for DreamGroup's Mailing list! 
We promise to inspire, inform and indulge!

Monday's Montage: Tips for the Father of the Bride

With Father’s Day just passed, I thought I would focus on the importance of the Father of the Bride, also known as the FOB. Even though he won’t be the one saying “I do” at the altar, the father is one of the most important and special members of the wedding party. As the FOB, you want to make sure you’re well prepared and looking extra dapper, especially since you’ll probably be the one walking your little girl down the aisle!

Check out our five helpful tips for the Father of the Bride:

1.) Put Your Best Foot Forward: Make sure you’re prepared for the father-daughter dance.  If you're unsure of how to dance, or worried about your Waltz, take some lessons or make time to practice with your princess.

2.) Raise a Glass: Prepare your speech ahead of time.  You don’t want to seem as though you’ve memorized it word for word, speak from the heart and everything will fall into place.

3.) Play Your Part: This means being there from day one, as involved or uninvolved as your daughter would like you to be. Whether it’s going to the cake tasting, helping with money planning, or being a shoulder to cry on.

4.) Don’t Go Overboard: Expect to be very popular this evening. Every guest will be excited to congratulate you and celebrate with a drink or two. Remember to keep count of how many glasses of wine you’ll be sipping on, I'm sure the last thing you want is to get too tipsy, grab the mic and possibly say too much or break into song.

5.) Have a Blast: If you have a great planner (oh hi) you shouldn't be dealing with all of the wedding madness or coordination, make sure you take a moment to breathe and take it all in and enjoy. It’s not only a huge day for the bride and groom, but an amazing celebration and milestone for the entire family!

Cherish this moment coming up, and Happy Father's Day!!

By Jayleen Deelman, Associate Planner with DreamGroup Productions

Jayleen Deelman has been with DreamGroup for 2 years and after proving herself as our Star Wedding Coordinator now takes on the role of Loving Planner. Jayleen is upbeat, good natured, and always smiling. She is attentive and with her passion for everything weddings she is key in carrying out a fluid and enjoyable wedding day experience. Clients adore her sweet disposition and her desire to make their wedding a memory they will never forget.

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

We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

Friday's Fabulous Find is Hannah Fitness!

Brides, I have found a fabulous find to share with you this week...Get ready to get into the best shape of your life as you get ready to start a new journey!

Let me introduce you to Hannah Fletcher

With a passion and excitment that radiates off this high energy trainer, you are bound to be looking fabulous for your big day. 

I had an oppurutnity to take a few classes with Hannah and let me tell you, if Hannah won't get you motivated, then nothing will!  Not only is she very educated when it comes to fitness, health and eating the right foods, Hannah also carries with her positve energy that is very sincere and all about love.  There is a fine balance with Hannah's Fitness, there is just the right amount of push balanced with love that gets you movin!

 Here are Hannah's tips for Brides getting ready for your big day:

1) PLAN - Make a reverse calendar and set realistic body composition goals with positive intentions.

2) SCULPT - Ask an expert for help and get set up on an exercise program that involves resistance training suitable for your body type. Toning your muscles boosts your metabolism!

3) CUT - Avoid sugar completely (other than sugar from fruit), and don't over do it with carbs (stick to low glycemic carbs only). Avoid alcohol.

4) BURN - Get as much moderate activity in as possible ex/ ride a bike to work, or go hike in the evening. This is your 'fat burning' zone, and this is where you will the burn fat off your body. Aim for at least 2 hours a day.

5) OWN - Own your body. Start strutting. Get your hair and nails done regularly. Focus on all of the things you love about yourself. Release as much 'happy hormone' as possible (which helps with burning fat).

Not to worry, whatever your level of athleticism Hannah can help you rock it down the aisle!

You will leave your session with Hannah feeling:

Powerful

Alive

Motivated

Changed

Want to win a half hour session where you will implement a customized workout or weight loss program with Hannah?  Like DreamGroup and Hannah on Facebook and be entered to win!!

BONUS: Get an extra entry by commenting on our Facebook post about Why you want to win a session with Hannah.

------------------------------------------------ 

CONTEST DETAILS 

WIN a half hour session with Hannah Fitness

CONTEST RULES
 

• Winner must live in the Vancouver Lower Mainland
 

• This Contest ends Thursday, June 21st, 2012 at midnight PST.  Winner will be drawn randomly and announced on the DreamGroup Blog, Facebook and Twitter on June 22nd.  The winner must contact DreamGroup within 72 hours to claim their prize, otherwise another winner will be drawn.

• The winner is responsible for picking up their prize

• This prize cannot be substituted by the winner or redeemed for cash.

HOW TO ENTER

To Enter: Simply 'like' DreamGroup and Hannah Fitness on Facebook

BONUS ENTRY: Get an extra entry by commenting on DreamGroup's Facebook page about why you want to win a session with Hannah.

Good Luck!

-----------------------------------------

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.

Click here to sign up for DreamGroup's Mailing list! 
We promise to inspire, inform and indulge!

Monday's Montage: Hay is not just for horses!

It's outdoor wedding season, bring on the sunshine and blue skies! What is the latest craze in wedding ceremony seating? Hay! Cheap, rustic – and biodegradable! What more could one ask? Here are some photos of hay bales used as wedding seating:

By Jayleen Deelman, Associate Planner with DreamGroup Productions

Jayleen Deelman has been with DreamGroup for 2 years and after proving herself as our Star Wedding Coordinator now takes on the role of Loving Planner. Jayleen is upbeat, good natured, and always smiling. She is attentive and with her passion for everything weddings she is key in carrying out a fluid and enjoyable wedding day experience. Clients adore her sweet disposition and her desire to make their wedding a memory they will never forget.

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

We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!

Friday Fabulous Finds brings you a whole lot of SUGAR!

Did someone say Sugar?...

For the right Wedding, here is the perfect favor...

Brides,

Want SWEET memories for your wedding?  Seriously consider having 

SUGAR & CO. at your wedding! 

Sugar and Co. has so many fun ideas for a candy table and Wedding favors all of which can be personalized to the theme of your wedding! 

Other wedding favor ideas are JAM! Yup that's right, jam from the berry capital of the world!

They use a small batch copper pot tradition with every jam made, while using berries picked at the height of their ripeness from the Fraser Valley berry fields. 

Sugar and Co. is located in North Vancouver #159 1233 Lynn Valley Road.  When you walk into the beautiful shop, you will feel as though you have entered a Leave it to Beaver episode, the only difference is everything is in color!  The friendly and very helpful staff is ready to guide you as feel overwhelmed with all the candy that is before your eyes!  There are children in the shop with eyes popping out of their face with looks of uncontrollable delight, with no time you too will resemble the children in the shop!  I know I do!

Attention Bridesmaids...

Looking to add some entertainment at your stagette or bridal shower?

I suggest ordering a pinata from Sugar and Co. called the Chocolate Smash Cake!!

For more information please visit their website: www.sugarandco.ca

Wishing you very sweet memories for your wedding!

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... "the centrepieces are how much!?!"

Hello,

My fiancé and I are experiencing serious sticker shock at the costs being quoted to us for various wedding services. For example, we met with one photographer duo that charges $300.00/hour with a minimum of 6 hours for both of them and then we met with another photographer (just her) who charges a flat fee of $5000.00 plus tax for as many hours as you need her on the wedding day. Yikes! My question is why are some so inexpensive and others so expensive in comparison?  I like both photographer’s styles and am just trying to understand the difference.  We also met with 3 florists and they all quoted different prices even though we shared the same thoughts with each about what we were looking for. Again, what’s the difference?

Thanks,

Puzzled Bride

Hello Puzzled Bride,

Wedding Budgets come in all shapes and sizes, prices, and calibers and every wedding is important no matter what you are able and willing to spend.  Why a particular product or service may be more with one vendor than another can be due to several factors.  First of all, you need to ensure you are comparing apples to apples or in this case Roses to Roses.  For example, I once had a bride that received a quote for a centerpiece for $300.00 from a popular downtown florist, she then met with a “wholesale” florist who quoted $125.00 for “the exact same thing” or so the bride thought.  In the end the lesser expensive arrangement was exactly what I predicted it would be… a considerably scaled down (albeit still beautiful) version of the original $300.00 arrangement quoted.  The height and circumference of the vase was much smaller than the one that would have been used in the $300.00 arrangement AND there were about 2/3 less orchid stems both affecting the overall magnitude and diameter of the end result.  In this bride’s case, that is all she needed and the savings realized outweighed the desire for something grand.   

Other variables that will affect fees quoted in everything from photography to wedding planners to cake artists and beyond are years of experience, level of confidence, use of the latest technologies, how in demand a vendor is, and certainly their reputation.

The important thing to do is first ensure your budget is in line with your needs and wants and secondly HIRE THE RIGHT VENDORS for YOUR WEDDING.  As a planner, one of the first things we do after drawing up a realistic budget is short list vendors that will help maximize the bottom line OR the vision or both depending on a client’s priorities.  This is the “trick” to creating a successful end result no matter what your expectations may be -- hire vendors whose portfolio of work -- whether it be florists or photographers -- emulates the look you are going for. That way it’s not about how much you are spending, but rather the look you are trying to achieve. Another super important thing to do is BE HONEST WITH THE VENDORS you are meeting with and let them know your budget limitations up front so they can in turn be honest with you and help guide you in a realistic direction.

At DreamGroup, we have a list of vendors that we know will help maximize budgets and then a list of vendors that maximize visions and we try and ensure that we bring the right clients to the right vendors whenever possible. Of course, some of these vendors do overlap, but the point is that the vendors you hire should respect and appreciate your priorities whether it’s getting the best bang for your buck or upstaging the Jones’ daughter’s wedding. :O)  Don’t be frustrated at the varying quotes.  Just look for the one that you feel gets your vision and works within your budget parameters.  That’s all that matters.  Best of luck with your wedding plans!

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.

Click here to sign up for DreamGroup's Mailing list! 
We promise to inspire, inform and indulge!

Monday's Montage: Light the Aisle

Lanterns are a great way to decorate your wedding pews. They’re simple, but in low light and they create such a wonderful ambiance. Simply use ribbon to attach them to the end of each aisle. If your ceremony is inside a church, it is very important to ensure with the Church director that décor can be added, and avoid any fire hazards that could easily be knocked over. What a beautiful walk towards your handsome groom! Take your time, smile, and enjoy this moment you've been dreaming of.

By Jayleen Deelman, Associate Planner with DreamGroup Productions

Jayleen Deelman has been with DreamGroup for 2 years and after proving herself as our Star Wedding Coordinator now takes on the role of Loving Planner. Jayleen is upbeat, good natured, and always smiling. She is attentive and with her passion for everything weddings she is key in carrying out a fluid and enjoyable wedding day experience. Clients adore her sweet disposition and her desire to make their wedding a memory they will never forget.

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

We promise to inspire, inform & indulge!