Are You A Superstitious Bride?

Hello all! I hope everyone had a nice, relaxing long weekend and got to enjoy the beautiful weather! I don’t know about you, but Monday had me thinking that it was the middle of July here in Cambridge! It was wonderful and my family and I spent the entire day outside soaking up the sun. Now that we are all back at the grind and counting down the days until the next long weekend (July 1st can’t come soon enough!), I thought it would be a good idea to have some light-hearted fun with the blog this week.

Summer Wedding

If you’re like me, you hear about superstitions and on the outside you’re rolling your eyes, but on the inside there’s a little part of you that wonders if it’s true! Superstitions have surrounded weddings for centuries and many of them can still be found in even the most non-traditional weddings. While many old wives tales make people laugh and think “really!?” there are a lot that add a bit of excitement into the plans of today’s bride. This week I am going to share with you some of these superstitions. Some may make you laugh but others you will recognize and have probably already planned on incorporating into your big day!

Something Blue

The Groom Cannot See The Bride Before The Wedding

This is a superstition every bride knows, but with new and exciting things like “first look” sessions, it’s becoming less prevalent in today’s wedding scene. But why did this “cardinal rule” come to be in the first place? Seeing the bride before the wedding is said to be like having a glimpse into the future before it has happened, therefore, it is bad luck! I know a lot of brides out there truly believe in this and there is nothing wrong with that…BUT, I think another reason why this superstition still stands strong is because a lot of brides dream of that moment when everyone, including their groom, sees them for the first time at the top of the aisle.

First Look

Get Married On Monday For Health, Tuesday For Wealth, Wednesday Best Of All, Thursday For Losses, Friday For Crosses, And Saturday For No Luck At All

It’s fairly obvious that Saturday is the most popular day of the week to get married, mainly because it’s the most convenient when it comes to 9-5 work schedules. However, according to this old wives tale, it seems as though convenience equals bad luck! By the looks of it, Wednesday is the best day to get hitched! But when was the last time you went to a Wednesday wedding? For me, never lol, and I know a lot of people that have been married Friday through Sunday that have everything this superstitious Wednesday promises:).

Save the Date

If A Single Woman Sleeps With A Piece Of Wedding Cake Under Her Pillow, She Will Dream Of Her Future Husband

I’m not quite sure where this superstition started, and personally, I hadn’t heard about it until I started exploring the web while writing this post! Nowadays, I think this is definitely one of those tales that is meant to give you a good laugh! Have you ever heard of someone doing this?

Cake Cutting

Tying Things To The Car Bumper

I’ve always loved this tradition but I did not know the meaning behind it! According to the superstition, decorating the back of the car is actually meant to get rid of evil spirits. The loud noises from things (like cans) clinging and clanging together are supposed to scare them off!

Just Married Car

The Veil

Who would have thought that something as common and beautiful as a bride’s veil would hold such deep superstition!? The Romans actually used to use the veil as a disguise to outwit evil spirits! And some Eastern countries require the bride to wear the veil over her face throughout the entire ceremony because the groom is not supposed to see her until they are officially married. So the next time you hear someone referring to a veil as a simple accessory, you can tell them that it’s more than just a pretty headpiece!

Veil

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Article written by Katie Dennison – Assistant Planner at The Little White Dress

© 2012 The Little White Dress, www.thelittlewhitedress.ca

Want to use this article in your Blog, E-zine or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement:

Wedding Planning expert Kate Vanderlugt publishes the “Inspired Bride” weekly e-zine. Get your FREE eReport: “How to Get the Most Bang for Your Wedding Budget” at www.thelittlewhitedress.ca/freeereport

My Current (And Favourite) Workout Routine!

So I heard something on the radio the other day about how your Zodiac sign can predict how likely you are to be an avid gym-goer. Apparently being a Virgo (which I am) puts you at the bottom of the list lol:(. It is true that I find it hard to go to the gym and spend a good hour or more doing circuits or lifting weights BUT that’s only because I get bored so easily with things like that! So, over the last couple of months I have gotten into an awesome routine that I actually enjoy and don’t have trouble maintaining! I thought I would share it with you brides (or bridal party members) out there that are wanting to get in shape but aren’t really intrigued by the thought of the typical gym routine (like me!).

Tease Logo

A few months ago I discovered a gem in Cambridge. Tease Fitness Studio is located on Pinebush (near the Wal-Mart plaza) and is a studio designed specifically for women! Not only does it offer an awesome variety of classes and fitness challenges to women of all fitness levels, but it is also the prettiest gym you’ll ever see! It smells AMAZING (I have to find out where they get their candles) and has awesome décor that makes it look the exact opposite of what you would envision a gym looking like!

Ballerina Barre

I started doing a weekly Ballerina Barre Fit class. Once a week a fabulous instructor (Emma) guided me through an hour of ballet-inspired exercises. Even though it was one of the toughest work outs I’ve ever done, the fact that I got to wear a pink tutu while working out made it all worth it:). Unfortunately, Tease no longer offers this class, but they now have a Black Swan class that is very similar. I haven’t gotten a chance to try this class out yet, but it’s definitely on my list!

Audrey Quote

Once the Ballerina Barre stopped I was faced with the challenge of finding a new class that I enjoyed as much as it! That’s when I decided to try my hand at a spin class. I’ll admit, I’ve always been kind of hesitant about doing a spin class. I always envision these intense, in your face instructors that make you peddle so fast that you think you’re going to pass out as you swim in a pool of your own sweat in an overcrowded, overheated room. But not this one! Clubland Sway Spin is my new favourite class at Tease and I actually look forward to going every week! There are no more than 6 bikes in the room and it has low lighting, fans and club lights! Yes, you read that right, club lights! The awesome instructor (Lyndsay) takes you on an exhilarating hour-long bike ride that doesn’t involve over the top yelling or overexerting yourself to the point where you want to die. That’s why this class is great, because no matter what your fitness level is, you can do Clubland Sway Spin! Lyndsay makes sure that you know how to set up your bike and never tells you how much resistance to use, she simply says what level she wants you to work at and tells you to do what you feel that level is (1-10). She knows that what might be a difficult level 7 for some may not be difficult for others, and vice versa, so you never have to feel like you’re not good enough for the class. And don’t get me wrong, if you try your hardest, you will break a sweat! But it’s an “I feel so awesome” sweat, not an “I feel so disgusting and want to crawl onto the floor and cry” sweat lol.

Tease Glasses

So far, the ballet and spin classes have been my favourites at Tease, but that is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the variety of options available to you. And what makes this place even more awesome? You don’t have to buy a membership! They have different options that suit every budget, big or small. Pay per class, buy a “passport” of classes that you can use whenever you want (they never expire!), or pay a flat fee and go to as many classes as you want in a month! You can pay the flat fee one month and if you don’t want to the next, then simply buy a passport, or pay per class if your schedule is a bit hectic! Check out all of the pricing options here.

Tank Top

Now, I do do more than one spin class a week. I go to my gym 1-2 times a week and use my favourite machine there, the elliptical! I go hard for 30-60 minutes (depending on my schedule) while listening to my iPod, and it feels amazing! Again, you don’t have to overexert yourself with these machines! Go at a pace that feels comfortable for you but try to amp it up so that you feel the burn and break a good sweat.

Bride and Groom

Every day I try to do something, so when I am not planning on doing spin or going to the gym I also have an at-home routine that I started 2 weeks ago and really love. I started a “plank challenge” that I found on Pinterest and a squat video (here). I also throw in various crunches and quick Pilates videos (like this) to keep myself from becoming bored!

Kate

Keep in mind though that with a great workout there also has to be a great, balanced diet. I am far (and I mean FAR lol) from perfect when it comes to food (I have a serious candy addiction!), but as long as the majority of the food you consume is healthy, I don’t think there’s any harm in indulging every once in a while:). Also, drink lots of water and try eating out as little as possible. And remember, while you want to work hard to look good on your wedding day, it’s important to keep that routine going after it too! Just because your wedding is over doesn’t mean you have to stop feeling good inside and out! You deserve to feel your very best before, during and long after your big day:).

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I hope this article has helped make you an Inspired Bride!

Article written by Katie Dennison – Assistant Planner at The Little White Dress

© 2012 The Little White Dress, www.thelittlewhitedress.ca

Want to use this article in your Blog, E-zine or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement:

Wedding Planning expert Kate Vanderlugt publishes the “Inspired Bride” weekly e-zine. Get your FREE eReport: “How to Get the Most Bang for Your Wedding Budget” at www.thelittlewhitedress.ca/freeereport

Styled Shoot Showcase: An Elegant Soiree at Langdon Hall

A few weeks ago, The Little White Dress had the honour of working with a group of talented, local vendors at the oh-so pretty Langdon Hall Country House Hotel & Spa! A fabulous team came together and created a gorgeous “soiree of romance and elegance” to kick off this year’s wedding season!

Langdon Hall

The elegance of spring and a rich colour palette of navy blue, blush and gold inspired this shoot. The end result was a stunning, lush scene on the grounds of a gorgeous, local landmark.

Centrepiece

This was my first time working a styled shoot, and it was such a great experience! I’m sure it had something to do with the fact that the vendors I had the chance to work with were some of the most talented in the region! They were nothing short of warm and welcoming to me (the newbie) and immediately made me feel like I was a part of the group! I was able to jump right in and help with set up and even threw in a few thoughts and suggestions of my own. The vision came together right before our eyes and I was truly amazed with the amount of thought and care that went into every single detail throughout the day.

Sweet Heart Table

From the insanely gorgeous flowers created by Flourish Florals and stationary created by Grey Snail Press, to the design and artistry of the lovely Jodi Leigh Designs and the “look too good to eat” cakes by incrEDIBLES, every single aspect of this shoot was absolute perfection. Some of my most favourite details included the masquerade masks that were perfectly placed throughout the shoot and the crazy gorgeous navy blue bridesmaid gowns (one of my favourite colours)! I also loved how easily all of these vendors worked together. They each had their own ideas of what they wanted to achieve that day but each individual vision came together to make one beautiful creation.

Debra Eby

All of the pretty was captured by the talented Debra Eby of Debra Eby Photography and Sarah McLachlan of Photography By Sarah Anne. The stunning La Crème gowns provided by Valentina Bridal and Couture and sharp suit were brought to life by an actual newlywed couple and two other lovely models, along with the talents of Sonia Ryan of Sonia Ryan & Co., who graciously dedicated their time in order to make this shoot happen.

Dessert Table

We’ve only given you a snapshot of this shoot, so if you haven’t already, take a look at the full spread, which was published on the Wedding Bells blog! Yay! Let us know what you think!

Place Setting

I absolutely loved being a part of this “dream team” and want to send a HUGE thank you to them for allowing me to jump into their lovely vision! I cannot wait to work with all of you again and hopefully our paths will cross at some point during this 2013 wedding season.

Group Shot

For more Inspired Bride articles that will go right to your inbox, sign up for your FREE eReport “How to Get the Most Bang for Your Wedding Budget”!

I hope this article has helped make you an Inspired Bride!

Article written by Katie Dennison – Assistant Planner at The Little White Dress

© 2012 The Little White Dress, www.thelittlewhitedress.ca

Want to use this article in your Blog, E-zine or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement:

Wedding Planning expert Kate Vanderlugt publishes the “Inspired Bride” weekly e-zine. Get your FREE eReport: “How to Get the Most Bang for Your Wedding Budget” at www.thelittlewhitedress.ca/freeereport

Trend Alert: Would You Change Into a Reception Gown?

So many of us dream of our wedding day and usually have this perfect, beautiful image in our minds that we cannot wait to create when we meet the right person. With shows like Say Yes to the Dress, Four Weddings and Something Borrowed, Something New, and other inspirational outlets (Pinterest, magazines, blogs), it’s becoming easier for women to take that image in their minds and make it come to life!

Cocktail Wedding Dress

Now, in this wonderful wedding that you constantly play out in your head, does a second dress ever make an appearance? I know a lot of women say that if they are going to spend a bunch of money on their dream gown, they want to be able to wear it all night, but for me, I think a reception gown is such a great idea! Think about it, so many women choose dresses that have layers and layers of tulle and crinoline, trains that stretch the length of the aisle and bling that can seriously weigh a girl down! Why not avoid things like group bathroom trips with your bridesmaids, holding up your gown as you attempt to bust a move on the dance floor and, especially if you’re a summer bride, the ickiness of the heat and sweat from the day?

Cake Cutting

Going with a second gown doesn’t even have to be a budget buster! The beauty of a second dress is that it can be flirty and fun, and not as expensive as a traditional bridal gown. It can be short, long, blingy, patterned, anything you want! And another added bonus is that if you choose wisely, you could even use this gown again!

Black Dance Dress

Another great thing that comes with choosing a second gown is that you get to relive that moment of surprise with all of your guests! Everyone loves that moment when they see the bride at the top of the aisle, and having a reception dress can recreate that moment. Just make sure to time the change according to your expectations. If you want this dress featured in photographs, make sure you change while your photographer is still around! If you prefer to be in your wedding gown for things like your first dance and the cutting of the cake, plan ahead so you can pick the right time to make the switch.

Green Reception Dress

I think it’s pretty clear that The Little White Dress is a fan of going off the beaten path. While there is nothing wrong with tradition, the last thing you want is for it to hold you back! Expressing yourself is key on your wedding day and choosing to change into a reception gown is a great way of doing that!

Would/ did you change into a reception gown? How do you feel about multiple gowns?

For more Inspired Bride articles that will go right to your inbox, sign up for your FREE eReport “How to Get the Most Bang for Your Wedding Budget”!

I hope this article has helped make you an Inspired Bride!

Article written by Katie Dennison – Assistant Planner at The Little White Dress

© 2012 The Little White Dress, www.thelittlewhitedress.ca

Want to use this article in your Blog, E-zine or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement:

Wedding Planning expert Kate Vanderlugt publishes the “Inspired Bride” weekly e-zine. Get your FREE eReport: “How to Get the Most Bang for Your Wedding Budget” at www.thelittlewhitedress.ca/freeereport

The Perfect Song For The Perfect Moment

Since our last blog about first dance songs was so popular, I thought this week I would write a post about possible songs for your dance(s) with the parents! For many parents, the few minutes they get to share with their child on the dance floor are what they look forward to the most and will remember forever. That is why it’s so important to put just as much effort into choosing these songs as you would for your first dance song. Weddings are extremely special (and sometimes difficult) occasions for parents, that dance is something that not only makes them feel that all of the stress involved with planning was worth it, but also that the bond shared between the two of you is special and will always be important, no matter how much you grow up!

Here are some of my favourite parent dance song ideas. Some are for fathers/ daughters, some are better suited for mothers/sons, but for the most part, these songs work for everyone. Enjoy!:)

My Wish – Rascal Flatts

To Sir With Love – Lulu / Glee Cast

Never Grow Up – Taylor Swift

Your Song – Elton John/ Ellie Goulding

Father/ Daughter

Daughters – John Mayer

The Wonder Of You – Elvis Presley

Wild World – Cat Stevens

Bridge Over Troubled Water – Simon & Garfunkel

Mother/ Daughter

You’re The Inspiration – Chicago

Love Will Keep Us Alive – The Eagles

Into the Mystic – Van Morrison/ Colin James

Tupelo Honey – Van Morrison

Mother/ Son

What song(s) have you chosen for your parent dance(s) for your wedding? What unique songs have you heard at weddings recently?

For more Inspired Bride articles that will go right to your inbox, sign up for your FREE eReport “How to Get the Most Bang for Your Wedding Budget”!

I hope this article has helped make you an Inspired Bride!

Article written by Katie Dennison – Assistant Planner at The Little White Dress

© 2012 The Little White Dress, www.thelittlewhitedress.ca

Want to use this article in your Blog, E-zine or website? You can as long as you include this complete statement:

Wedding Planning expert Kate Vanderlugt publishes the “Inspired Bride” weekly e-zine. Get your FREE eReport: “How to Get the Most Bang for Your Wedding Budget” at www.thelittlewhitedress.ca/freeereport

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