Arlington Estate Wedding | Toronto Wedding Venue

Jessica and David's Arlington Estate wedding took my breath away right from the moment we sat down to even start planning. I was so excited to be able to work at a new Toronto wedding venue, especially one as beautiful as The Arlington Estate. It's one thing to put things on paper, but to actually see them come to life is what makes it all worthwhile. This is true for both the wedding design, but also the venue itself! The team at The Arlington Estate were wonderful, courteous and professional and having been so new, it's clear they really value their role in the industry. In the four months they had been open, they had managed to be miles ahead (despite a few hiccups, which were to be expected!) of even some venues having been open for years.Jessica and David were planning from afar as they currently live in NYC. It's difficult to be planning from another city, so having someone on your side to help with the logistics certainly helps to ease the stress. She had a great team of family here at home, but knowing she wanted them to also enjoy the experience, she brought me on board to help her out! It was such a pleasure planning and designing this wedding from Jess' romantic, candlelit vision. Logistics of the day needed to be carefully planned as we started Jessica and David's day at her parents' house, then traveled downtown to St. Andrews Catholic Church for the ceremony. From there, we shuttled wedding party and extended family to Osgoode Hall for wedding photos, then on to The Arlington Estate for a few last photos and wedding reception. See all the gorgeous details captured by Tara McMullen, and the incredible smile the bride donned the whole day, below!

Photography  Tara McMullen Photography
Florals  Hunt and Gather
Stationery  Paper and Poste
Sweets Table  Cakelaine
Venue and Catering The Arlington Estate
Toronto Destination Wedding Planning and Design Laura Olsen Events.

How to Host a Great Wedding Your Guests Will Actually Enjoy

In our last post, we talked about How to Be a Great Wedding Guest, but what should you do as the host to ensure your guests have a great time? Today we're presenting our best tips on how to host a great wedding that your guests will actually enjoy.Before you break the bank on delicate decorations or over the top cake toppings, remember that your guests have also put money and time into your wedding and they’ll really appreciate these simple but important details.

1. Make it Easy! 

The last thing you want is to be texting directions, parking instructions or itineraries to one hundred of your closest friends and family. Make sure this is clearly taken care of and organized well in advance. (Tip: Older folks might need a little extra TLC in this department so if you are only planning on posting your directions on your website, consider printing a few directions cards for those older guests who may need them.)

2. Tolerate the intolerable

Now is not the time to question your cousin’s dubious aversion to gluten. Just cater to it, literally, and confirm all dietary preferences, allergies, and restrictions well in advance. Knowing when not to waste your mental energy will leave you ready to maturely handle any big issues that arise (aka no Bridezilla moments!).

3. It’s all fun and games…

If wee ones will be in attendance, it’s a nice gesture to provide some activities, colouring, crafts, or maybe even a caregiver to help keep them occupied. Their parents will be so delighted by your thoughtful gesture!4.

4. An attitude of gratitude

Show your love for the guests who traveled far to be with you, those who helped out with the planning or setting up of your wedding, and anyone else who’s been with you on your special journey leading up to this big day. Say a big thank you during speeches, as you circulate the room, say it with take-home treats or gift bags at the end of the night, and definitely say it in your thank-you cards—that you won’t put off writing!

5. Overall organization

Consider posting an artfully displayed 'day-of' itinerary as well as important phone numbers, contacts and any other information people might need to make them feel comfortable.

How to Be a Great Wedding Guest

The bride isn’t the only one who’s got to keep it classy! Here are five fun tips to help you put your best foot forward at the next wedding you attend and advice on how to be a great wedding guest.

5. RSVP… ASAP.

Couples and their families put much effort and money into planning the big day so don’t disappoint your best pals. Seating, meals, pictures—a lot goes into the logistics of a wedding so RSVP as soon as you are able to. Don’t leave anyone guessing or needing to follow up when their list is already a mile long!

4. Dietary do’s and don’ts…

avoid awkward moments at the table where you have to send food back. If you are allergic to something or have food preferences, let those be known well in advance.

3. Play well with others.

Sadly, it’s true, you very well might have some justifiable grievances with the guest list but now is not the time to bring those up. Avoid tense situations and stick with your gang to keep those positive vibes flowing. We know you’ll do great, just keep it classy and sassy (but not too flashy!).

2. Don’t delay:

This means following directions regarding the itinerary so you’re not holding up dinner, dancing, or anything else that is time sensitive. There's always another drink in the next room!

1. my number one rule ON how to be a great wedding guest: Be tender to the vendors!

Yes, for many, a wedding is a time to let loose but it’s definitely not the time to be disrespectful to bartenders, servers, and anyone who is working at the wedding. Keep it polite and positive. Remember they are humans, too, who have likely been on their feet all day having barely taken a second to eat properly or stay hydrated. If you're nice to us, we'll often try to make your experience even better by snagging you that extra dessert or give you a heads up on where to stand so you get first dibs to fill up on those hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour.

Christine Lim Photography

How to Plan a Sophisticated Bachelorette Party

Not every bride dreams of hitting the dance floor in a white boa. Whether you are the Maid of Honour or planning it yourself, here are ten fresh ideas about how to plan a sophisticated bachelorette party that'll make your party unique (and Instagram-appropriate!)!

1. Remember the old days—before boys—when we’d pile into our bestie’s living room and watch movies all night? Long live girls’ nights in with popcorn, flicks, mixtapes and makeovers! Make it extra special with bubbly, pretty sweets and even a mobile manicure service!

Pro-tip: it’s a great low-budget option if you’re concerned about cost.

Olive Photography

Olive Photography

You could also…

2. Raise the barre! Hit a high-intensity cardio class like spin or barre and reward yourself with a steam, spa day, or cocktails. Pro-tip: many city hotels offer spa day passes that include a steam and soak by the pool.3. Looking for a rustic option? Try glamping! Go where the wild things are and head out of town for a girls’ weekend in the woods4. Opting for urban? Attend a high tea, private dinner at your favourite restaurant, or something new like belly dancing lessons!

And speaking of learning…

Olive Photography

5. Cooking classes! These can range greatly in price tag so choose the option that works for you from full course meals to (super-fun) fish-mongering at the local market.

6. Make scents of it all. There are numerous perfumeries that have workshops on how to make your own blends. Same goes for patisseries, cosmetics, tea, and jewelry. You’ll go home with a treat, too! Keep an eye on Bloom School here in Toronto as they are always running fun, unique workshops that could be perfect for a sophisticated bachelorette!

Some other mid-range options include…

7. An escape room, murder mystery, or a night at the comedy club! If it’s hilarity you’re looking for…8. Sign the gals up for something that none of you has ever done before. Be it a golf lesson, high-speed go-kart racing, horseback riding or even dog sledding, you’re bound for laughs when everyone is a beginner.

For bigger budgets…

9. There’s no place like Ohm. (Sorry, we couldn’t resist.) Yoga retreats are an ideal getaway for gals because they typically already have itineraries, meals, and sometimes even spa options.

10. Looking to really splurge? Pack your bags and find your best jet-setting aviators. Head to a new city and try a culinary tour of New Orleans, take in the architecture of Chicago, or get jazzy at the festivals in Montreal.

BONUS IDEA: How to PLAN a Sophisticated Bachelorette Party

Olive Photography

Grab your girls and head to the spa! It could be as simple as spending the afternoon somewhere like the Scandinavian Spa at Blue Mountain in their glorious Scandinavian Baths and sipping on mimosas, or something closer to home such as Her Majesty’s Pleasure, a global award-winning salon/spa and cocktail bar. Afterwards, get dolled up and head out for a beautiful dinner, just the girls! Breaking it up into a couple of experiences throughout the day or weekend makes it easier to cater to varying budgets and schedules!

Above all else, bond. The bachelorette is absolutely about celebrating the bride, yes, but it’s also a chance to spend time with just the girls. Try to pick something that will suit everyone’s style, comfort level, and budget.

A Romantic Garden Wedding at Graydon Hall Manor

It was a beautiful summer day when Marcey and Pawel got married in a romantic garden wedding at Graydon Hall Manor. Graydon Hall Manor is one of those luxurious wedding venues in Toronto who really values the client experience. Having worked there on a few occasions now, I can tell you it's one of my favourite venues in the city. They treat vendors incredibly well and understand the common goal is to make sure the client has a wonderful day.Recently having gone under a gorgeous renovation, Graydon Hall Manor was the perfect setting for romantic, soft garden style that Marcey was after. We developed the design plan around soft, romantic neutral colours, that was anchored by strong, equally romantic fonts and design details. We wanted to put our attention into doing the details really, really well since the venue was so beautiful already. Layers of patterns made for extra design detail that was just the right amount of variety to add depth to the design. Paper and Poste designed a gorgeous custom letterpress invitation suite that included a floral pattern envelope liner that created the base for our incredible flowers designed by Coriander Girl. We stepped out for ice cream at the famous Dutch Dreams Ice Cream Shop following the ceremony, to toast the newlyweds on a warm summer day.Returning to the venue, guests were treated to a scrumptious meal in the dining room set with luxury linens to accent the space's new, classic design, and garden-esque floral arrangements atop the tables. We repurposed the massive statement piece from the ceremony on the head table to add some extra drama in the room.After dinner, delicious treats and sweets by Cakelaine awaited guests just in time for the post-dinner sweet tooth. See this gorgeous wedding at Graydon Hall Manor below, as captured by Carmin Davidson Photography.

5 Things Not to Do The Night Before the Wedding

Naturally, we love dishing about all the things you should do as you gear up for your big day… but what about those foods, drinks, and people (!!) you should be avoiding the night before you say I do?

Here are five things NOT to do the night before the wedding.

1. DRINK MORE THAN A TOAST.

Who wants to be hiding a hangover on their big day?  Not only does it ruin your sleep, you'll be less hydrated for the morning when you want to look and feel your best!  Save yourself the trouble and avoid those bubbles! Don’t worry, you can party to your heart’s content tomorrow.

Tara McMullen Photography

2. EATING THE BAD STUFF.

Nix the noshing on these danger zone foods: dried fruit, cauliflower, sugar-free soda, gum (yes, gum!), coffee and anything dairy-based. Why? Well, they all cause bloating, and, er, well, you get the idea…

Bartek and Magda

3. THE PHONE.

Let’s clarify. It’s okay to call your loved ones and tell them how much you appreciate them. It is not okay to get wrapped up in drama so avoid situations and people that stress you out. Leave the gossip (and toxic triggers) for later and get your beauty sleep.

4. DIY

Don’t run around like crazy at the last minute trying to finish a DIY project for your wedding, changing the seating chart, or thinking of a “better” way to do the photographs. If you really do have any concern about logistics, let your bridesmaids or wedding coordinator handle it.

5. STRESS

Okay, whoa… that is easier said than done! But it’s probably the most important tip and the one that will have the biggest impact on your enjoyment tomorrow. Before you start stressing about stressing… breathe. The planning is done. The details have been taken care of. All that’s left to do is allow this magical day to unfold before you.

Sounds fairytale-ish? It is!

So get some rest, meditate, practice yoga, takes a long bath, watch your favorite movie, listen to your best playlist, or take our other suggestions of what you should be doing the night before your wedding, but whatever you do, make sure it brings you joy.

Five Things You Must Do The Morning Of Your Wedding

The big day is here! Everything is set, all the details are double checked, and you’re ready to take the most important walk of your life. It’s the one where you begin a new journey, as one half of a whole. Your wedding day is the first chapter of the greatest love story you’ll ever write because it’s the one you’ll pen together.

But before you do, you’ve got to get through the morning of your wedding! We know, we know, the minutes seem to feel like hours and you just can’t wait to get going. But like the song says, you can’t hurry love (and you certainly can’t rush your wedding day).

So, here are some fun things you must do the morning of the wedding before you say I do.

1. Pack your flats!

Put your best foot forward and switch out your heels for flats every chance you can get. You’ll be spending most of the day in heels so have a comfy set of slippers, flip flops, or cute white sneakers nearby.

Tara McMullen Photography

2. Mix it up with a mixtape.

You’ve got the DJ or band all set for later, but why not throw on your favorite tunes now? Music sets the tone so hit play on those fun throwbacks and party anthems while you and your girls get ready.

Tara McMullen Photography.

3. Breathe.

We know we always say this, but breathe, try to take in this moment, really take it in. Don’t worry about what your hubby-to-be is doing with his groomsmen (not much, trust us) so really take a moment to pause and be present. Perhaps have a little toast to your bridal party and family, as well.

4. Hydrate!

This one is a no-brainer but it’s almost always overlooked. You might easily find yourself so preoccupied that eating or drinking fall to the wayside. Have some fruit nearby and keep sipping on water throughout the morning.

Tara McMullen Photography

5. Prep your accessories!

Your collection of images to tell your wedding day story would be incomplete without those little accessories on which you worked so hard! So gather your invitation suite (2 copies!), earrings, shoes, veil, rings all in one spot so your photographer can capture those little details for your collection.

BONUS TIP

Don’t sweat the details. Allow others to help you so you can truly be present to enjoy, and try to remember what this day is about: the most incredible love story you’ll ever be a part of.

Okay, ready? Here we go. Today is going to be magic.