Blush! Wedding Planning-10% discount

Are you getting married? Let Blush! be a part of your magical day. Whether you only need a couple of consulting sessions or are interested in our full wedding planning package, we can customize a package to meet your wedding needs. Contact us before Sept. 30 and receive 10% off your package. Contact us by email at byblush@hotmail.com or by phone at (514) 567.0509. If we are meeting with clients and vendors, we may not be able to take your call. It is very important that we devote our full attention to each and every client. Please leave us a message and we will get back to you as soon as possible. To receive this discount, please mention this blog post. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Cheers!

The SAQ is offering wine tasting courses in Montreal, Laval and Quebec. What a nice gift to give the Bride & Groom that seems to have everything. Here's the info:

Tasting courses

Wine, port and beer appreciation courses for clients, available in French.

Tasting courses is an instruction program especially designed to meet Quebecers' interest in learning more about wine, port and beer. This program is presented by SAQ specialists and consists of several levels of courses offered throughout the province. For details, see course schedules listed below.

Courses can be organized in most regions of Quebec upon request (minimum 21 participants).

Level 1 - A World to Discover

Prerequisite: None

Level 1 provides an introduction to the classification of wines. Participants learn to select the wines that best suit their tastes. In addition, this introductory level course presents wine tasting techniques and guidelines for matching food and wine. The course consists of weekly three-hour evening classes scheduled over a five-week period, and includes a theme-based wine tasting with every class.

Cost is $215 including taxes, course material and wine-tasting glasses.

Consult course schedule (French only):

Level 2 - A World Without Borders

Prerequisite: Level 1

Level 2 focuses on increasing participants' knowledge of wines originating from France and Italy. The course provides information on Appellations d'origine contrôlées (A.O.C.), on the differences and characters of wine and on the concept of crus classés and grand crus classés (classified growth). This course consists of weekly three-hour evening classes scheduled over a five-week period, and includes a theme-based wine tasting with every class.

Cost is $235 including taxes, course material and wine-tasting glasses.

Level 3 - A World of Passion and Pleasure

Prerequisite: Level 2

Level 3 places the emphasis on learning through experience. Participants are invited to discover a whole world of pleasure and passion through wine tasting. Exercises and tasting sessions are carried out under the guidance of a specialist commentator in a relaxed setting conducive to interaction, thus giving the proceedings a more Epicurean flavour. This course consists of weekly three-hour evening classes scheduled over a five-week period. Each class includes a wine tasting. The fifth class consists of a gourmet meal during which participants are asked to test their knowledge by ordering the wines.

Cost is $330 including taxes, course material and wine-tasting glasses.

Wines from the New World

Prerequisite: Level 1

This course about wines from the New World will let you acquaint yourself with the youngest wine-producing countries and discover the characteristics of their main wines. Canada, the United States, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand are covered. The course consists of weekly three-hour evening classes scheduled over a three-week period and includes a theme-based wine tasting with every class.

Cost is $150, including taxes, course material and wine-tasting glasses.

Port

Prerequisite (recommended): Level 1

This course consists of weekly three-hour evening classes scheduled over a two-week period. Participants learn about the main characteristics of port and the various policies and factors influencing its region. In addition, the course covers the different types of port, its production, food pairing, and tasting techniques.

Cost is $135 including taxes, course material and wine-tasting glasses.

Become a Beer Connoisseur

Prerequisite: None

Specialists from the Société des alcools du Québec are available to teach you more about beer. This course, consisting of two evening classes with a tasting session after each one, covers the various types of beer, food pairing, the brewing process and mastering beer-tasting techniques.

Cost is $110 including taxes and course material.

Varietals: Get to Know Them

Prerequisite: Level 1

This course covers the characteristics of 16 vine varieties and how winemaking is affected by such factors as climate, soil and vinification methods. Along with the theory component, there are learning activities and a tasting of six wines per session. This course starts in September 2007, with four three-hour sessions over four weeks.

Cost is $220, including taxes, course materials and tasting glasses.

For complete course info, along with contact information and schedules please check out the SAQ at http://www.saq.com

Designer cookies...yummy!

Have you ever looked at a pair of woman's shoes and said they're so cute you could eat them?...Well now you can. These delectable treats are available at Eleni's New York. These cookie gift sets are available in a variety of different themes, from fashion, baby, flowers, sports and even weddings. Prices vary depending on the quanity and package that you order (gift packaging is also available) What a great little treat for a friend's birthday or a bridal luncheon. Cupcakes, popcorns and brownies are also available. http://www.elenis.com

Kleinfeld (Manhattan) Trunk Sales

(Designers from left to right....Jane Wang, Pnina Tornai, Melissa Sweet, Augusta Jones, Edgardo Bonilla and Claire Pettibone) New York's famous wedding dress shop is holding six different (wedding dress) trunk shows during the month of Sept. (Appointments are necessary, so book quickly) The Kleinfeld name may sound familiar to you if you watch TLC. There's a reality show called "Say yes to the dress" that is based out of the shop and shows real brides shopping for their wedding gowns. The trunk show dates are as follows:

• Jane Wang (Sept. 2-4)
• Pnina Tornai (Sept. 5-7) Exclusive Kleinfeld designer (a favorite designer among brides on the show "Say yes to the dress")
  
• Melissa Sweet (Sept. 12-14)
• Augusta Jones (Sept. 16-18)
• Edgardo Bonilla (Sept. 19-21)
• Claire Pettibone (Sept. 26-28)

Winters & Rain headpieces/accessories trunk show (Sept. 12-14)
Nelson DLeon headpieces/accessories trunk show (Sept. 27)

Check out their site for more information on the designers and to set up an appointment http://kleinfeldbridal.com/

KODAK photo book sale

Can't afford those big expensive photo album books that the photographers sell....make your own! Starting at $69.99, you can create your own Legacy Photo Book colour album on the kodak website. Book includes:

• Hardbound cover: linen or leather
• 2 x 14" (36 x 30 cm) with front window
• Many colors
• Single-sided printing (10-page min; 40-page max)
• Double-sided printing (20-page min; 80-page max)
• Limited-edition, archival box included
• Choose layouts, including full-bleed and nine-picture collage

For a limited time you can receive 25% off all purchases over $25 CAD. Check our their site for full details and coupon code. http://www.kodakgallery.ca/PhotoBookOverview.jsp?d_304000=30400002

Weddings A to Z

Celebrity wedding planner, Mindy Weiss, has put this great wedding book out (cleverly called) The Wedding Book. I bought it as soon as it came out. It's a great go to guide for any questions you may about about wedding planning and coordinating. Whether you're getting married or you work in the industry, there's something in the book for everyone. Check out your favourite book store for pricing.

Wedding Day Survival Kit

Let me start off by saying that weddings planners/coordinators are affordable. For those that are skeptical, here's a nice (non-human) alternative. This little kit contains many useful things that any wedding party member could end up needing during the big day. Inside you will find a toothbrush, toothpaste, hair brush, hair spray, dental floss, mints, drinking straw, pain reliever, antacid, lotion, emery board, clear nail polish, nail polish remover, tissues, deodorant, tampons, adhesive bandages, bobby pins, mirror, lint remover, mending kit, scissors, safety pins, stain remover, static remover ,super glue,2-sided tape, earring backs, corsage pins, and extra wedding bands (for $49 I doubt the rings are real) This could make a great shower gift for the bride to be. To purchase this product or to learn more check out this site http://commerce.idmi.net/ecommerce/product_categories.asp?CID=121&

Eleni + Jesse, Aug. 23, 2008

I had the honor of working with this couple coordinating their big day. The ceremony went off without a hitch (minus the previous ceremony running 20 mins. late) and the reception seemed to never stop, it was one event after another. Smoke, confetti, glow sticks, conga lines, flames, leis, police/construction/party hats, greek dancing, portuguese dancing and everything in between. It was a pleasure to work with such a fun couple and their families. Congrats to Eleni + Jesse!

Who needs a best friend

Can a woman actually own too many diamonds? For just under $10,000 you can own this fine piece of work from Birks. It's from their Birks Caresse® Collection. It's a Princess Cut Pavé Set Canadian Diamond Engagement Ring, in Platinum (ref#913484) The old saying that you get what you pay for is so true. This type of ring is definitely not for the shy bride - you're going to get lots of attention. Sunglasses may be necessary. Diamond details available at http://www.birks.com/

Monique Lhuillier- Fall 2008

Monique Lhuillier has to be one of my favourite wedding dress designers. There's something very romantic about her styles that I just can't get enough of. Shown above are looks from her Fall 2008 collection. You can see more styles from the collection and video from her runway shows at http://www.moniquelhuillier.com/

Bridesmaids video

The Dessy Group has posted a great little video called "a brief guide about bridesmaids. It's really cute and I couldn't help but share it with all of you. Enjoy! http://www.bridesmaidsguide.com/

Vermont Wedding Affair

Saturday, Nov. 1, 2008 in Shelbrune, Vermont. Vermont's Signature Bridal Event hosted by Vermont Vows wedding magazine. A red carpet entrance with valet parking & formal doormen...An elegant atmosphere with hand-butlered champagne, wine tasting & hors d’oeuvres...A hand-picked selection of Vermont’s most celebrated wedding professionals... a truly luxurious event dedicated to providing couples with the most unique Vermont wedding experience. Space is limited and tickets are $25 per person or $35 per couple.

Each Ticket Includes:

• A Gift Box filled with over $100 worth of goodies (one per couple)
• A copy of Martha Stewart Weddings and Vermont Vows
• Complimentary seminars & Workshops with industry experts
• Complimentary Hors d'oeuvres, champagne, cake tastings, wine tasting, cigar rolling, and other fine delectables
• An opportunity to win a Gift Certificate Bouquet with up to $10,000 of Gift Certificates (featuring certificates for: Spa Services, Restaurants, Event Rentals & more…)
• The chance to participate in our silent auction featuring up to $12,000 worth of jewelry & gifts (to benefit The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Vermont)
  

I have already purchased my tickets and will post about the event after it happens. If you are unable to attend, check back and I will fill you in on what went on, plus pictures. It should be a great event. Check out their site for more details, including a video from their 2006 event. http://www.vermontweddingaffair.com/

Man's best friend

People love their dogs and what's not to love with cute little faces like these. There is a huge market on wedding accessories for pets. From diamond studded collars and leashes to full wedding outfits. If you're tying the knot and want to dress up your pooch, there are many sites where you can buy their formal attire. October is right around the corner so you may want to pick them up a halloween costume at the same time. http://www.kooldawgtees.com/Dog_Formal_Wear.html

Blush! Wedding+ Special Event Planning

Over the past two years I've been a part of some very special occasions. Not only will I post about what's going on in the industry, I will give you an inside look at the events that I work on. Whether it be creative consultations or full event coordination, you build strong relationships with the people that you work with. Here's a look....Enjoy! Photos courtesy of Photo Nala

Feet have feelings too

Jimmy Choo.......yes please!
For the brides that want to treat their feet to something special these Gale silk satin slingbacks should do the trick. They feature a swarovski jewelled buckle at the front and fasten with a diamante buckle at the ankle (with a 4" heel). They are available in ivory online for $620 CAD at http://www.jimmychoo.com/pws/Home.ice
Definitely not priced for everyone, but if you can afford them, buy them!

Pretzels aren't just for hockey games

Pretzels have apparently had a makeover. Whether it be chocolate covered, dipped in candy, or wrapped in pretty packaging, the place is Fretzels by Jill. For those that become addicted, you can even join their Fretzel of the month club and have the sweet treats shipped directly to you each and every month. Yummy to look at and yummy to eat, you can't go wrong. They make wonderful gifts as long as you don't eat them first. http://www.fretzels.com/

Floral God!

Preston Bailey: Floral designer to the stars. I had the opportunity to meet him this past February in Toronto. His books and blog are very inspiring. Most people probably can not afford his talents, though it's fun just to see what he's up to. http://www.prestonbailey.blogspot.com/

Montreal Wedding Salon

Labour Day is just around the corner. If you are you getting married and have no big plans for the weekend you should check out the Salon Marions-Nous/Let's Get Married wedding show at Place Bonaventure Aug. 31 and Sept. 1.

Check out their website for more details http://www.marionsnous.ca/

Welcome

Welcome to my new blog called Blush!
Here you will find out what's going on in the wedding industry in Montreal and elsewhere in the world. I hope to post new trends, exciting finds and great deals in the wedding and special events world. Whether you're a bride to be or just enjoy new and exciting things, there will be something here for everyone...guaranteed!

Happy Planning