1st Annual Small Business Show & Sale

Come and support your fellow small business owners, area entrepreneurs and established business leaders at the 1st Annual Small Business Show & Sale. With Stained Glass and other Crafts, Baked Goods, Photography, Kitchenware, Christmas Gifts, Cosmetics, Baby Items & Wedding Vendors, there will be something for everyone.

* Free Admission & Free Parking*

Date: Sunday November 29th, 2009

Time: 9am to 5pm

Location: Woodview Park Community Center at 151 Cadillac Ave. N., Oshawa, ON

Participating Vendors: Linzi's Cakes - try a free sample & get your free ticket for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate!Crafts by Carmen - baby items, gift bags, beaded items and more!

Petra King Photography

Almost Hitched Wedding & Event Planning/Bobbee's Designs

Fantasia - Meet Fantasia Consultant Catherine

Tupperware

Avon

Pane in the Glass - Stained Glass creations

Runway Access - Jewelery and accessories

Two Green Mom's Cleaning

*TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT, PLEASE NOTE THAT SOME VENDORS ACCEPT ONLY CASH PAYMENTS*

WN-How Did That Get Started?

How Did That Get Started?

All brides love showing off there engagement ring and sharing the every detail of there engagement. Most don't know where it all started from, or why we wear our ring on the 3rd finger. So I thought I would share.

History of the Wedding Ring

Today, the wedding ring symbolizes a promise of never-ending love, devotion, and loyalty. It is the physical representation of the wedding vows. The history of the wedding ring, however, is not quite as romantic. Throughout history, the wedding ring has symbolized various parts of the traditional wedding vows.

For Richer or Poorer
Primitive brides wore rings of rushes or hemp. These were plentiful but not too durable since they had to be replaced frequently. Early Romans wore rings of iron to symbolize the permanence of marriage. As more precious metals became available, rings were made from silver, gold and platinum. Luckily, today’s brides have a wide range of choices as do their grooms. Some people choose alternative rings, such as titanium or tattoos.

Never-Ending Circle

The wedding band's shape represents an unbroken promise of love and commitment. The circle has no beginning and no end; therefore, the marriage has no end. It is believed that many past cultures shared the same beliefs about the circles.
There is, however, another theory behind the ring's shape. Many religions consider marriage as "half of the religion." Some historians say that the wedding ring represents two halves coming together to form a united whole. By completing the circle, primitive man also completed his religion.

From the Heart

Most legends tell us that the Egyptians started the tradition of placing the ring on the 3rd finger of the left hand because they believed that the vein, which ran through that finger runs straight to the heart,it seemed a logical place for the placement of the wedding band. The practice was passed down and the third finger is now universally known as the ring finger. Science has since disproved that theory, but it is still romantic to think that our wedding rings are on a direct path to our hearts. In Medieval Europe, grooms placed the ring on three of the bride’s fingers in turn to symbolize the Trinity – “the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Starting with the index finger, the ring ended up on and remained on the 3rd finger, and that has since become the customary ring finger for all English-speaking cultures. However, in many European countries, the wedding ring is worn on the right hand, and a Greek woman may wear her ring on her left hand while she is engaged but move it to her right hand after her marriage.

Husband's Wedding Ring

Men wearing wedding bands are a fairly recent innovation. Throughout history, men have been dominant and either owned wives or lead harems. There was no need for men to be burdened by symbols of marriage and commitment. Even after modern thinking outlawed all forms of slavery and polygamy, the fingers of men were still unadorned. This was all changed during World War II, which is when it became fashionable for men to wear bands to remind them of the loving wives waiting back home. During the Korean War this number increased. Today, most men wear wedding bands, regardless of military status.

Weddingbells Sweepstakes

Weddingbells Magazine is giving away over $30,000 worth of bridal jewellery. Enter now for your chance to win!

Enter today at http://www.weddingbells.ca/

Durham Region Small Business Show

We will be participating at the 1st Annual Durham Region Small Business Show taking place Sunday November 29th, 2009 at Woodview Community Centre in Oshawa. Come out and we can discuss your next event, as well meet other small business owners in the area. We will also be offering a promotion the day of the event.

Door open at 9:00am

I will also be launching my new wedding photo tins.

Hope to see you there!!)

Bobbi-Jo

Meet Lindsay from Linzi's Cakes

There are many aspects of my job I love, one is working with wonderful couples and families the other is meeting other mom entrepreneurs, they are always so passionate. Awhile back I introduced Lindsay to you and I thought it would be nice to learn more about her business. Lindsay designs the most beautiful cakes and I have to say very delicious.

Business: Linzi's Cakes

Web site: http://www.linziscakes.com/

Facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/inbox/readmessage.php?t=1114130301450#/group.php?gid=21945956328

Who you are and what you do? Lindsay Giguere - Custom Cake Baker/Decorator

How did you get into your business? I started taking a few courses while off on maternity leave and fell in love with the art of cake decorating.

What inspires you? My family, friends & the Cake Boss

Who do you look up to in the cake industry? The Cake Boss

What is your favourite part of a wedding? The cake of course!! lol

What are you working on right now? Right now I'm working on a Lightening McQueen birthday cake as well as two other wedding cakes.

What is your favourite flavour of cake? Butterpecan

The proudest moment in our business? When I got asked to make a sweet 16 birthday cake for the t.v. show "Party Mamas".

Cake featured on Party Mamas

If you have any advice to brides what would it be? Relax, enjoy your day and don't stress over things your vendors are taking care of for you.

Could you share any cake trends for 2010? Simple, classic and chic cakes are always in style and add a touch of elegance to your day.

Upcoming Events you will be attending?

November 7th, 2009 -Mama & Chick Show taking place at Oshawa Holiday Inn.

November 29th, 2009 - Small Business show taking place at The Woodview Community Center, Oshawa.

Fab Finds-Raise the Cake

I see a lot of wedding cakes just set on a white board...the cakes are always so beautiful and I thought they always needed something to showcase them...then I found this site. Every Cake needs a stand. These stands take your cake from the ordinary to unique, unforgettable, fun and fabulous!
http://www.raisethecake.com/

Nautical Inspirations

I first saw this bouquet on Brides.com then was inspired from there, nautical weddings are very popular right now, but you don't have to go way out with this theme. Little touches work best. Try navy & green, navy & orange.....hope you are inspired as I was.

WN- Backup Plans

Backup Plans

Even though a bride may spend hours of dreaming of her wedding day, reality of pulling all the details necessary to make those dreams happen is work.

Planning experts suggest that the couple spend time together sharing their dreams for this day. They each may have an idea for a picture perfect day. How are you dressed, where are you, how many people are there? Once you have shared the dream, it is time to translate those ideas into workable details. Developing an idea into a real event can happen when you ask yourself the same questions your English composition teacher asked: who, what, where, when, how?

Who are the people you want most to be included in this day? Jot down their names and total up the numbers for a rough estimate of guests.

Where do you want to get married? Close to home? on an exotic beach? Zero one or two ideas on which you both agree on. Talk about geography, ceremony and reception ideas.

When? Have you always wanted a Christmas wedding or a perfect day in June?

How will you fund it? Will you pay it yourselves? Can you expect help from families.

When you have decided on the basics of your plans and made some major decisions, do yourself a huge favor and make up backup plans for each area- Just in case. It is wise to have alternatives locations, times and dates. And it is just as easy to get information for alternatives while you are checking out your primary choices. Just because you dreamed of your first choice, it may be way too expensive. Or the date already taken.

Beware of what you can and can't have, what are you will to change if necessary, will save you time, energy, sanity throughout the planning process. When you talk with potential vendors, ask
about your alternative plans as well as primary ones. That way, if you need them, you will have more options available.

Modern Custom Card Boxes

I love finding new modern ideas to share with my brides. I HATE HATE HATE the white bird cages, or Cinderella carriage, it's just been way over done. I found a company that I absolutely fell in love with "For the Modern Bride" is a company dedicated to making sure that everything they their client's is completely custom. Whatever the occasion, they will design something fabulous for you. After all, no one wants a cookie cutter wedding anymore. These days it's all about the small details that shows your guests your style! Here are a few of my favorites.

"For the Modern Bride" also makes custom stationary, logos, favors, pretty much anything you need. You can have your theme from invitations, menu to your card holder to match your wedding cake. I know you will love these as much as I do.

http://www.forthemodernbride.com/

For The Modern Bride

PO Box 687Howell, NJ 07731

info@ForTheModernBride.com

FACEBOOK PAGE:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/For-The-Modern-Bride/140721915745#/pages/For-The-Modern-Bride/140721915745?v=wall&viewas=708160112

New Web site

I just wanted to let you all know that a NEW web site is in the making. It will make everything easier to access and is more clean looking. I can't tell you how excited I am.

As well we have a lot of events coming up we will be attending. So stay tuned...site should be launched late September.

Time Traveler's Wife-Wedding Dress Find

Well I saw the The Time Traveler's Wife and I love Rachel McAdams on-screen dress. So I had to find it...knowing brides would be looking for this one. It's simple but very elegant, which alot of brides are looking for lately.....the days of long trains are done. Well at least for awhile!





Well here it is, by designer Lea Ann Belter Bridal. Who I have to say is one of my favorite local wedding dress designers. They are just timeless and romantic and you will not regret your choice for your wedding day years to come. This dress is from her 2008 collection "Cecilia" the silk organza ball gown features a strapless sweetheart neckline and a soft A-line shirt with a chapel train. A mocha organza sash flatters the waist and falls softly down the back into tails. The back waist is accentuated with hand tinted blush roses and mocha duchess satin leaves.




The dress is available in off white and white with a variety of sash options ( she has it in mocha). Usually once I dress is featured in film it's nearly impossible to find, but you never know.

Check Lea-Ann Belter Bridal

http://lea-annbelter.com/index.php

785 Queen Street East
Toronto, Ontario Canada M4M 1H5

Amanda Morrison-Hill Photography

I recently teamed up with Amanda from amh photography. She specializes in Boudoir Photography. What an awesome gift that would be for your groom. Even if you are a little self-conscious of your body once you see yourself you will see the beauty, it is very empowering. Amanda also offers wedding, family, maternity, portrait and trash the dress photo shoots. Check out some of her pics from Amanda's trash the dress marathon.



Amanda and I have some promotions planned..so please stay tuned! You don't want to miss them.

Amanda Morrison-Hill

905.447.1665

amanda@amh-photo.com

http://www.amh-photo.com/

Don't forget to check out Amanda's Facebook Group http://www.facebook.com/inbox/readmessage.php?t=117604953998#/group.php?gid=7379374413

Wedding Themed Movies...We all Love Them

I'm a huge fan of Wedding Movies. They get me every time. My husband tells me I have problems, but there is something about them. I actually have a collect just of wedding related movies, pretty much any film with a wedding in it.

Some of my favorites are Bride Wars, 13 going on 30, The Notebook, Runaway Bride, 27 Dresses, Sweet Home Alabama and Momma Mia to name a few.

There are so many out there enjoy.So, brides grab your bridesmaids and have some fun watching some of these hilarious films. You will want to watch them over and over again.I once heard a theory that all good comedies end with a wedding, because comedies provide happiness, and the promise of a new beginning provides the most warmth, or joy, to the human spirit. Not too sure if it is true, but it sure helps in my eyes. Check out some of these films. Maybe you will be inspired like I was.

Here are some to check out:

Made of Honor: For Tom (Patrick Dempsey), life is good: he's sexy, successful, has great luck with the ladies, and knows he can always rely on Hannah (Michelle Monaghan), his delightful best friend and the one constant in his life. It's the perfect setup until Hannah goes overseas to Scotland on a six-week business trip... and Tom is stunned to realize how empty his life is without her. He resolves that when she gets back, he'll ask Hannah to marry him -- but is floored when he learns that she has become engaged to a handsome and wealthy Scotsman and plans to move overseas. When Hannah asks Tom to be her "maid" of honor, he reluctantly agrees to fill the role... but only so he can attempt to woo Hannah and stop the wedding before it's too late.

27 Dresses: Katherine Heigl (Knocked up, TV's Grey's Anatomy) lights up the screen in this charming romantic comedy from the screenwriter of The Devil Wears Prada." Heigl stars as Jane, a romantic, completely selfless woman who has been a bridesmaid in no less than 27 weddings. Unfortunately her own happy ending seems to be nowhere in sight. Until her younger sister Tess captures the heart of Jane's boss -- on whom Jane has a secret crush inspiring Jane to change her "always-a-bridesmaid" destiny.

Sweet Home Alabama: A rising New York clothing designer who suddenly finds herself engaged to the city's most eligible bachelor. But this is no fairy tale romance for Melanie. She has skeletons in her fashion-filled closet that include Jake -- the backwoods husband she married in high school who refuses to divorce her. Determined to end their marriage and sever all ties with her past once and for all, Melanie returns to Alabama. But home starts to tug at her heartstrings, and what she thought she wanted may not be what she wants at all.

Father of the Bride:The befuddled father who has a hard time letting go of his young daughter (Kimberly Williams) when she unexpectedly announces her plans to wed. The "I do's" and don'ts of her big day prove no small feat for George as he runs into an off-the-wall wedding planner (funnyman Martin Short), his patient, level-headed wife (Diane Keaton), and hysterical hitches.

This is the movie that inspired my husband and mine ceremony. Let just say I feel in love with their vows. A Walk to Remember: Love brings together what peer pressure and lifestyles seek to keep apart in this coming-of-age story based on the bestselling book. Teen idol Shane West and multi platinum recording star Mandy Moore star as two high schoolers -- she a straitlaced preacher's daughter and he an unmotivated delinquent. When events thrust him into her world, he begins an unexpected journey he'll never forget.

The Wedding Singer: Adam Sandler stars in this movie about a wedding singer who was jilted at the altar, and who becomes the worst wedding singer. Drew Barrymore is Sandler’s costar.

The Wedding Planner: Mary Flore is a wedding planner whose singular dedication to her work has kept her from finding the man of her dreams. When she finally meets Mr. Right, he turns out to be the groom from one of her upcoming weddings.

Father of the Bride: Steve Martin and Diane Keaton star in this romantic comedy, which is a remake of the original Father of the Bride staring Spencer Tracy. Martin Short is the wedding planner in the movie, and he steals the show. Kimberly Williams played the bride-to-be in Father of the Bride. This is a wedding movie that focuses more on the parents of the bride than the bride herself.

Four Weddings and a Funeral: Starring Hugh Grant and Andie Macdowell, this is one of the highest grossing British romantic comedies in their history. Four Weddings made Hugh Grant a star overnight. Andie Macdowell stepped into the role just two weeks before filming, after original actress dropped out. Four Weddings is one of Julia Roberts’ favorite movies.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding: Based on the real life experiences of Nia Vardalos, a Greek Winnipeg-based actress, this romantic comedy was originally a one-woman play. Tom Hanks’ wife Rita convinced Hanks to make the movie; he had to convince Vardalos to put more kissing and make out scenes in the movie. It’s definitely one of the funniest, most culturally interested of these top ten wedding movies.

My Best Friend’s Wedding: Another Julia Roberts movie, she costarred with Cameron Diaz and Dermot Mulroney. Roberts is determined to put a stop to her best friend’s wedding (Mulroney is marrying Diaz in the movie). In an interview about this movie, Roberts said a wedding should be “a party to say we all believe in this love.” Director P.J. Hogan said this top ten wedding movie has a Shakespearian feel.

Hiring a Wedding Singer-Featuring Michelle Boudrias

Thinking of hiring a wedding singer for your big day? Wedding Singers are becoming more popular then ever. With couples deciding they want more then a DJ for there ceremony & reception. It gives your wedding a bit more class and adds that personal touch, which all couples are trying to achieve.


Some might be asking why I need a Wedding Singer when we already have a DJ. Well, music has the ability to evoke deep emotion and can enhance your special day for you as well as your family and friends. It's just not only a form of entertainment and accompaniment for sections of the ceremony: music is a highly effective way of setting the atmosphere and the tone that you desire for your wedding.For a personal touch have them to preform your song. I know you both would be in tears.

Tips for Hiring a Wedding Singer

1. Listen to Audio or watch Video. If possible go see your Wedding Singer at another event or get them to preform a song or two at your meeting.



2. Thoroughly read client feedback.



3. Book early. A great wedding singer might need to be booked 3 to 6 months in advance.



4. Get a contract and read it carefully. Most professional wedding singers will also require a deposit in order to secure them.



5. Follow up with your wedding singer as often as you need to. Don't be shy about making sure your wedding singer knows exactly what type of entertainment you want!

I would like in introduce Michelle Boudrias. She has a beautiful voice and now preforms at weddings, anniversaries as well as many other events. Michelle will make your wedding one to remember-with love.

Getting to Know Michelle

Michelle Boudrias is an Aboriginal Canadian country music artist from the Timiskaming First Nation. Born and raised in Oshawa, Ontario, Michelle knew she had bigger plans for her future.
Michelle grew up listening to country music. Her parents were her country music influence as they listened to Johnny Cash, George Jones, Reba McEntire, and many more accomplished artists. Michelle always dreamed of being on stage and being like the musicians she grew up listening to.

Achievements/Performances

2002 Cradle to Rave Talent Search-Competed
2004 Cradle to Rave Talent Search- Michelle placed second in the contest. Prize was to record 2 songs with Wellcraft Music in Oshawa.

2004 Brock Idol-Winner

June 2006 Preformed with an aboriginal band, Najiwan.
June 2006 Preformed in Port Perry on the Scugog Cruise boat.

Sept/Jan. 2006 Preformed with the Najiwan band at the Durham College pub in Oshawa for their country night. She has been asked to return to perform more country night shows.

June 2007 Performed at the Vancouver Aboriginal Festival.

December 2007 Performed at the Toronto Aboriginal Festival.
December 2007, Michelle won the Super Star Search hosted by radio station KX96 at The Corral in Oshawa, Ontario. Her prize was a one song recording titled “I Like it Like That” and national release of the song.

2008 , Preformed at the Special Olympics Ontario
May 2008 Preformed at Provincail Spring Games

"I Like it Like That" was released in July and made it to #1 on the National Aboriginal Charts!!! And made it on 24 stations across Canada!I also performed at the Special Olympics Ontario 2008 Provincial Spring Games in May of 2008.

Some of Michelle's songs:

I Like it Like That

Make me Believe In Love

How To Fly

To listen to her music visit: http://www.michelleboudrias.com/

WN-The Wedding Rehearsal

The Wedding Rehearsal

Believe it or not I have many brides who ask us if they really need to have a rehearsal. They just want to show up on their wedding day and trust that all will go well. I remind them that they are about to produce, direct and star in a major production. No Broadway play goes on without rehearsal. The wedding ceremony should not either.

To be sure that everything goes smoothly during the wedding ceremony I believe the rehearsal is necessary. The bride and the groom with their attendants (which include the bride’s
parents or whomever is walking her down the aisle) should take the rehearsal seriously, arriving on time and properly dressed.

Many years ago the bride chose a stand in for the rehearsal, since it was considered unlucky for
her to actually say any of the words of the ceremony before the actual event. Today however,
both the bride and the groom take their places at the altar. It is unlikely that the clergyman will
go through the entire service, but will talk and walk you through the sequence of events. Most
will let the couple go through their responses if they wish. As well as practicing the processional and recessional,and going through the service, the ushers should be briefed on who will sit in the reserved pews and how the other pews should be filled. Other details like who will roll out the aisle cloth and when, who will escort the mothers, and who will decorate the pews in the unlikely event that the florist will not will be covered at rehearsal.

If special music is to be played, a poem to be read or non-traditional vows said, those should be
practiced at the rehearsal so they will be said easily during the ceremony. The groom’s parents may be invited to attend,but since they do not have an active part in the
ceremony they do not need to be there. It is likely that they will be hosting the rehearsal dinner,
which follows and would prefer to be at that location attending last minute details.

So make the rehearsal a fun event for yourself and the bridal party. Assure everyone arrives on time. Plan for a short rehearsal less then an hour. Which gives everyone lots of time to run threw the ceremony a few times. Most importantly plan something fun afterwards, most couples have a rehearsal dinner or BBQ. An opportunity to thank your wedding party and give out your attendant gifts. Just remember your rehearsal shouldn't be an event to stress over, at this time all the details should be planned. So sit back and enjoy!!D

Abbey Lane Aesthetics Day Spa

When planning your dream wedding it hard not to get stressed over the small details. It is important to slow down, relax and have fun planning the day you marry your best friend. That's why I thought I should introduce you to Abbey Lane Aesthetics Day Spa. Tanya will take care of all your pre-wedding stress.

Abbey Lane is a holistic spa offering manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing, aromatherapy massage and spa body treatments.They are also proud to use and provide products that are green, certified organic, environmentally friendly and vegan — all with recyclable packaging. These products fit perfectly with Abbey Lane's philosophy … “a natural approach to beauty”.

Abbey Lane is located in Milbrook, within easy reach of Peterborough and Durham Region, which provides a relaxing atmosphere in a rural setting. So come and enjoy an afternoon of pampering.

Jillian Harris's Engagement Ring

I'm not a big fan of the The Bachelorette, but I had to watch the final, just to see the proposal. When Jillian choose Ed Swiderski I really didn't know if he was actually going to pop the question, which he did with this custom made Neil Lane diamond engagement ring .The same ring that was used last season when Jason Mesnick proposed to Melissa Rycroft. I bet if he knew that is would have chosen another ring. Well hopefully that's not a sign of things to come. They seem really happy with each other, fingers crossed it will work out for the two of them. We all know love is not a easy thing. Here are the details about the beautiful ring Jillian received.

Custom made by Neil Lane, Platinum setting ,

2.05 carat centre pear shaped stone, 6 bagettes and 94 round diamonds accentuate the centre stone, Side stones measure 1.03 carats,

Total diamond weight 3.08 carats

Who could say no to that?

Twilight Live Love Bath Product Launch

Twilight Door Sign...make it sparkle!

When I first heard that Jenny was making these products I knew I had to throw a Twilight Themed Party". I'm a huge fan of Stephenie Meyer's "Twilight Series"novels and I just fell in love with the characters. There were so many aspects I wanted to include in the party. With a little bit of research and getting inspired by the characters. I think it was a success.

Yes, I'm a Mom Yes, I read Twilight of Course I Love Edward

The Twilight "Live Love Bath" Party was amazing, the girls had a blast. Jenny from Live Love Bath just launched her NEW Twilight inspired scents. Such as her Bella , Forbitten Twilight and Vampire Kisses. If I can't kiss the real thing Vampire Kisses is close enough. Just close your eyes and imagine Edwards wrapping you in his arms. Her Bella scent is just as I imagined...everyone has to get these products. They are amazing and all natural.

Live Love Bath Sample Products

This is Jenny's completely custom scent to her line. “Forbitten Twilight”. This scent was inspired by the wonderful Twilight stories, and created after all the scent descriptions in the books sparked her interest.So slip away into a world of romance, passion and fantasy with this captivating scent inspired by the well known novels. This scent begins with notes of sweet berries, tart oranges. Hints of cinnamon, fresh blooming roses and woodsy musk are added and it is finally lightly kissed with romantic amber and just a touch of ‘sparkle’. Now you can smell like your favorite Cullen. Forbitten Twilight comes in all your favorite products including: body frostings, omega lotion, sugar scrub, body spray, bath gumdrops and loofa soaps. Also for the Twilight fan looking to sparkle like a Cullen, you can get the Forbitten Twilight Sparkle Omega cream to add a bit of Dazzle to your skin.



PARIFIN TREATMENT:Twilight Wax Treatment

It was a little bit HOT...for some!

Jenny also has more Twilight inspired scents coming out this November, just in time for New Moon. Thanks Jenny for an awesome Twilight Bath inspired party. Check out her web site: http://www.livelovebath.com/

Proud Twilight Mom

I totally let my Alice side take over planning this party. I just let all my emotions from reading and watching the film take over. As well as doing a bit of research. When planning a "Twilight" party you have to set the right mood. The party MUST be at Twilight, trees filled with white lights, candle light and the Twilight soundtrack playing in the background. Or even play some of Rob Pattinson music such as "I'll Be Your Lover" and "Let me Sign". New Moon is already huge so lets have a little fun!

Printable Labels from Hostesses with the Mostess

Thanks goes out to Lindsay Giguere from Linzi's Cakes for making these delicious Twilight inspired Cupcakes. Visit her web site: http://www.linziscakes.com/


I had a table for gifts for the guests...just something simple.



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