Advice for Grooms : The Perfect Wedding Day!

Yes, it's her big day... but HIS too!

Advice is often given out to the bride on how to prepare and get through a very big and sometimes nervous day... but let's not forget her CO-STAR... the GROOM.

Just as the bride has many things to remember and to do, the groom has just a very significant role as well. Some believe that all the groom has to do is just shows up, but, he has a very big role in ensuring the bride's happiness, which in turn, will ensure a perfect day for both!

Empathize with the bride, grooms, and be there for her and you will have a flawless wedding day.

Here are some tips...

1) Be a gentleman. All eyes are on you. Be diplomatic, charming & keep your cool, no matter

what happens!

2) Be romantic. Never miss the opportunity to be romantic with your bride. This will not only please her and make her day that much more memorable, but it will calm her down as well. There is always time for quick kiss, some sweet words, smiles and hugs.

3) SMILE! As I said, all eyes are on you, so make sure you smile, smile, smile... and not just for pictures. Let everyone know (especially your bride), that you are the happiest man in the world.

4) When the mother-of-the-bride enters: Greet her warmly, tell her how beautiful she looks and how much you are looking forward to the day. Escort her to her seat, if possible, but if time does not permit, make sure an usher does so. Same for her father, if applicable.

5) When the BRIDE enters: This is the most important entrance. Smile at her warmly. This will relax her and make her very happy. This is the most important smile that she is looking for. This ensures her that you love her and that you are in this together. Help her make it down that aisle. When she reaches the altar, whisper to her how stunning she looks and how much you love her.

6) Be confidant. At the ceremony, be as relaxed and confidant as you can. Looking happy and

relaxed will make the bride calm and happy as well.

7) Overcome nerves. Just imagining yourself as self-assured, confidant and charming will put you in the right frame of mind and it will show. Act and be in control and that nothing can phase you!

8) After the ceremony: tell her how happy you are that she is your wife and of course, tell her over and over again how much you love her!

Rita Wong

514.816.7482

www.ritawongevents.com

Christmas Gifts for the Bride-to-Be

Christmas is around the corner... and so is her wedding day!

Get her a gift that she can use for her wedding. She will LOVE it!

Here are a few ideas:

Jewelry

For someone you are very close to, perhaps your sister, a dear friend or your daughter, a family heirloom or a new piece of jewelry will make a very special and sentimental gift. She will look forward to wearing it on her special day and always.

Wedding Day Accesories

Perhaps she has been eyeing a special clutch that matches her dress perfectly, or the shoes that will complete her whole bridal look.

Bride and "Mrs." Apparel

She will love this! She is marrying her soul mate and will be so proud to let everyone know that she is his new wife.

Honeymoon Details

Think monogrammed details that she can carry with her as she enjoys her honeymoon as the new "Mrs.". A monogrammed travel kit with her new initials is beautiful AND functional. load it up with things she can use and enjoy on her honeymoon, such as a great book for the beach, crossword puzzles, snacks and perhaps a monogrammed journal to record all the memorable moments of her honeymoon.

Rita Wong

www.ritawongevents.com

514.816.7482

J Crew - Beautiful & Affordable Wedding Attire

I was in New York, Soho 2 weeks ago with my husband and as usual, we separated to do our own shopping. I walked and walked for hours discovering cute little boutiques and also well known retailers, like Uniqlo, Steve Madden, BCBG...etc.

Just as I was about to end that day's shopping spree, I came across J Crew, who has always offered a moderate-to-higher end selection of apparel from casual to dressy. The first thing I saw when I walked in was the big display above. J Crew now has a wedding collection and offers appointments with their wedding specialists to dress your entire wedding party... at VERY AFFORDABLE prices.

Next to the display were these 2 mannequins. Find your wedding dress, your flower-girl's dress, your maid-of-honor, bridesmaids and all the guys, young or old.

If you look at the wedding collection, you will find wedding dresses from $395 to under $1000!

They have many looks from classic to glamorous.

$995 - Silk Ottoman Vienette Gown

$425 - Silk Tricotine Avery Dress

$750 - Silk Tricotine Avery Dress

You may get everything else you need while you are there.

Be sure to check out the jewelry and accessories, as well as the beautiful selection of bridal shoes.

All affordable and all lovely!

www.ritawongevents.com

514.816.7482

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed and Something Blue

Where did this tradition come from?

The traditional saying was actually,

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed & Something Blue..., and a Sixpence in her Shoe.

It is said that a bride carrying each of these good look tokens will have good fortune in her marriage.

Something Old represents is starting a new life, but not leaving the past. The bride still carries on her family values and connections. This can be in the form of antique jewelry passed on from your grandmother, a love letter your dad write your mom, or an old piece of lace sewn into the hem of your dress.

Something New is optimism and hope for the future. Wedding dresses or your new ring can be a symbol of this tradition.

Something Borrowed has several meanings that connect the bride to her family and friends, but most generally, it represents the support and love from your family and friends in your new life. This may be represented by a piece of jewelry borrowed from your mom or a handkerchief from your dad.

Something Blue symbolizes love, fidelity, purity and all the right things you need for a solid marriage. The possibilities are endless. Shoes, underwear, nailpolish, or a blue ribbon sewn into your dress are ideas that brides have chosen.

A sixpence is a British coin (1551 - 1967) made of silver and worth 6 pennies.

This is a tradition from the Victorian era and can be traced back to England.

The coin represents wealth and good fortune.

Brides have been honoring these traditions for years and years as a token of good luck, but this is a lovely way of honoring people that are close to you as well.

Whatever you use, have fun with it and celebrate your memories for years to come!

Rita Wong

www.ritawongevents.com

514.816.7482

Wedding Love Notes

It is not uncommon for brides and grooms to be a little anxious the morning of their wedding.

Write him or her a little note the morning of your wedding and have your Best Man or Maid-of-Honor deliver it while they are getting dressed for the church. This simple act will calm them down as well as you and take any nerves away and make you want to run down the aisle!

Read Ezine's article on how to perfect the perfect wedding note.

Holiday Decor Idea - Simple and Lovely!

Holiday decor is a great way to put you in the warm and festive holiday spirit.

Decorating your home should be fun and affordable. All it takes is a few basic holiday pieces, some creativity and the festive spirit.

One tradition I always do is take a glass bowl and fill with ornaments.

This is a clean and easy table embellishment and just lovely in pictures.

I also take on a modern look and use the same ornaments to put in martini glasses around the house as well.

Colin Cowie, entertaining genius is a fan of this idea too. just look at this gorgeous silver pedestal bowl with simple silver ornaments, creating glamour and class. So simple and so affordable, using things you have already.

Wedding Dresses from Betsey Johnson and CHANEL

The minute I arrived in New York, it was off to the stores for me. It was like a wonderful dream looking at al the stores around me.

As I walked into high end stores like Gucci, Burberry, Chanel to the more affordable stores like Polo, BCBG and Betsey Johnson, I noticed that wedding wear is indeed a line that most big stores and chains consider.

Look at these 2 wedding dresses from Betsey Johnson.

First is a formal dress. Second is a destination wedding dress.

The big designers like Chanel made my mouth drop. Just look at these wedding dresses by Chanel!

Wedding Gifts - The Perfect Gift Ideas for the New Couple

The perfect wedding gifts...

Here are my Top 5:

#1: Money is without a doubt, a gift that most people could use. Because weddings usually rack up a big bill, a money gift is a great way to help the couple in their financial start to a new life together. How much should you tuck away in that wedding card? Consider the venue and the level of cuisine. Ideally, you should at least cover your food and drinks.

#2: Want to give them something other than money? Couples should surely continue the celebration and have some quiet time to relax after all the wedding planning as well as to have a night to remember. Great gift idea: a night in a luxurious hotel room, with champagne, of course! Do check with parents or maid-of-honor before booking!

#3: Extra Sweet Honeymoon Details. Give the new couple gifts to make their honeymoon extra special and memorable. Perhaps a gift certificate to a great restaurant at their destination, a camera to capture all the memories, money tucked inside a guide book, a certificate for a spa, or my favourite, a surprise UPGRADE on their flights.... of course to be a surprise when they arrive at the airport!

#4: The Big Gift on the Gift Registry. Usually the bigger gifts on the couple's registry are gifts that they don't think they will actually receive. If your budget allows, get them the gift they really need and want and if you need some help, get a few others to contribute into a group gift.

This will be so appreciated.

#5: A Timeless Piece. Something that will stand the test of time and be with the couple forever is a great idea for a sentimental and different gift. Whether it is a piece of antique furniture, a crystal vase, or their invitation is a beautiful frame, this gift is sure to bring back wonderful memories and make the couple think, "That's the vase Vanessa gave us for our wedding:.

Helpful Wedding Planning Tips

Please help yourself to my very helpful wedding planning tips on my new website.

Great tips you never even thought about.

Tips that I discovered and created while planning events over the years.

My new site offers lots of advice not only on wedding and event planning tips, but I share with you all my fantastic finds. Check it out!

www.ritawongevents.com

2010 Wedding Dresses from Top Bridal Gown Designers

Take a look at the newest 2010 wedding dresses on the bridal show runways.

So many gorgeous styles for all different styles of brides.

Sexy bride, romantic bride, glamorous bride, modern, minimal and all out show-stoppers.

The Knot has a great display of these 2010 beauties.

For the glamorous bride, this is a big winner (below). Love it! So far, my favourite for 2010!

Rita Wong Events

514.816.7482

Maid-of-Honor

Choosing your maid- or matron-of-honor should be done with careful thought and consideration for what the task entails.

First, if the lady (or guy!) you are choosing is single, then they are considered a maid-of-honor.

If she (he) is married, they are your matron-of-honor.

Secondly, there is no rule that this title be a family member.

This title is one that is give to someone who you love, loves you and whom you trust to help you not only on your wedding day, but to be there at very single step of the wedding planning.

Take a look at bridesmaid101.com for help in choosing the right candidate, and also for a guide in what to expect in terms of your role as the maid/matron of honor.

Wedding Night Lingerie

Make sure you're prepared with the sexy, stunning and sweet lingerie from Victoria Secret's very affordable wedding collection.

From lacy to strappy, these looks will make you feel so sexy and sure to please your new hubby!

RED VELVET CUPCAKE - NYC's MAGNOLIA Recipe

Red Velvet Cupcakes are your perfect choice for a very romantic and delicious wedding cake.

Who else but the best cupcake maker, MAGNOLIA BAKERY to offer the secret recipe.

Try the recipe yourself and surprise your sweetheart tonight with this ultra-romantic gesture, he is sure to love!

Skin Care Regimen for Pre-Wedding

You've got to shine and have flawless skin on your big day!

NOW, girls, is the time to start. Not only will you look refreshed and beautiful, but you will have adopted a healthy new habit!

Don't know where to start with all the steps such as exfoliating, toning, moisturizing...etc.?

The Knot offers great advice on how to get the perfect glow and healthy skin!

Rita: 514.816.7482

rita@stellarevent.ca

Wedding Cookie Favors

I LOVE cookies. You probably do too!

For a tasty and pretty wedding favor that everyone will love, give wedding cookies to your guests.

Cookies can be custom-made to match your style and decor, as well, can be monogrammed to give it that personalized touch.

Look at these cute ideas:

Another great use for cookies - cookies instead of placecards with guests names on them.

There are cookie-makers in Montreal who make wedding cookies that not only look beautiful but is just as yummy!

Rita Wong Events 514.816.7482

rita@stellarevent.ca

Cookies Pictures Source: http://www.customcookieco.co.uk/products/weddings/weddings.html

For the GUYS... Planning the Perfect Wedding Proposal

You have found the DREAM GIRL, the girl you want to marry and spend the rest of your life with.

Now, you must plan the perfect wedding proposal. Here are a few guidelines & helpful tips for you aspiring grooms!

- Think about the TIMING: If your future bride will want a FALL wedding, make sure there is enough time between the proposal date and the wedding date to plan the wedding. (If you ask her on Valentine's Day, a Fall wedding will only leave you 6-7 months of planning).

- Public or Private Proposal? She may thrilled having all her family and friends around when you pop the question, but she may also prefer a more private moment that is just for the two of you.

- Proposal Planner - YES, this service does exist. This is a great service for guys who really need help to find a special and unique way to propose to their special partner. Many wedding planners offer this help by helping to pick out the perfect diamond, where and when to pop the big question and of course, what to say!

- Choose the right place! What places have meaning for the two of you? A first-date restaurant? Where you first met? Make sure ou have champagne ready at home after the big question!

- Ask permission? Some girls are old fashioned and will swoon at the idea of you asking her parents for their blessing. This will score you huge points with her mom & dad too! :) It is respectful and sincere.

GOOD LUCK & Congratulations!

Rita: 514.816.7482

rita@stellarevent.ca

Welcoming your Out-of-Town Guests

Weddings are events that bring together all your loved ones near and far.

Most wedding celebrations will include guests, family and friends, from out-of-town.

The bride and groom, and their respective families will surely want to take care of these people the best they can and thank them for their presence.

Here are some ways to make your guests feel welcome and have a great time:

- Make a list of your out-of-town guests that you would like to invite and send them a Save-the-Date card or notice once you have set the date. The sooner they know when the wedding will be the more preparation time they have.

- For these guests, make sure to include a map of the area and all the places around the ceremony & reception venues.

- Make a list of hotels that you recommend, but make sue to include a few different price ranges. Call the hotels in advance and ask for a special wedding group rate. When guests mention the wedding group title, they will receive the special rate. Include this information in your invite.

- When you know where your guests are staying, prepare welcome baskets to be delivered to their hotel room upon their day of arrival. Include sweet and savory snacks, bottled water and a welcome note.

- Make a list of activities for your guests to enjoy, such as restaurants, cafes, shopping, landmarks...

- If time allows, schedule an out-of-towner lunch or dinner so you may spend time with them before the wedding Alternatively, you may also have a wedding-day-after brunch to thank guests and say farewell.

For ideas on welcome wedding packages and help on caring for guests:

Rita: 514.816.7482

Have a blast!

KABANA Restaurant... Everything you need.

Dinner last night at Kabana was just PERFECT.

This gorgeous new supperclub is the newest addition to the Med, Cavalli, Primadonna, Bice, Otto group.

Each restaurant from this group has always offered the top in food, service, entertainment and ambiance. Kabana is no exception.

Located in the beautiful Quartier Dix 30, here in Brossard, it is definitely the new gem of the South Shore.

My husband, TODDY FLORES, resident DJ at Med for more than 6 years and dedicated DJ for this supperclub group for over 10 years is the Thursday night DJ now at Kabana.

After a few drinks at my home, 2 minutes away, my friends and I decided to check out Kabana on a Wednesday night.

What a great time we had. The ambiance as gorgeous as when we saw it at the Opening party last month, service was very attentive and the food was just impeccable. Creative and tasty, the perfect meal.

We all had different entrees. I had the meatballs that are so moist and juicy from the braising.

Topped with goat cheese and crispy eggplant chip.

Then, I had the Chilean sea bass. (Picture didn't come out)

Light, flaky and so delicious.

Then, to die for.... Check out these mini doughnuts with the caramel, chocolate and strawberry sauce. Giorgio Damiani, you spoil us always!

This heavenly cheesecake dessert was also light, airy and so flavorful.

Fresh and dreamy.

Then, an assortment of sorbet for us to taste and to clean off the palate for our special coffees.

The prices are so reasonable for such a beautiful place.

Top quality in everything offered.

A one-stop shop for ambiance, dinner and dancing.

This venue is also a perfect choice for corporate events, wedding rehearsal dinners, birthdays, any special celebration.

Do check it out.

Thank you, KABANA, Dix 30 for giving me a place in the South Shore to dine and party in STYLE!