Category: Advice

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Advice News Wedding Planning

Venues

Venues

When it comes to choosing a wedding venue, location and season are two of the most important factors to consider. Not only will they impact the overall atmosphere and aesthetic of your special day, but they can also affect the logistics and cost of your wedding since all venues have peak seasons and days of the week resulting in higher costs.

Discuss, as a couple, early on in your planning what day of the week and time of day you want to have your wedding. Do you want a midday ceremony with a tea party reception in a more relaxed atmosphere or an evening ceremony with pictures taken in the sunset and a nighttime reception where everyone can party the night away.

One of the first questions you should ask each venue is about their availability on your desired wedding date. It’s also important to ask about the capacity of the venue and any restrictions on the number of guests you can invite. Additionally, you’ll want to inquire about the rental fees and any additional costs, such as for parking, linens, or tables and chairs.

It’s also a good idea to ask about the venue’s policy on decorations and if there are any restrictions on vendors. You’ll want to ensure that you have the flexibility to personalize your wedding to your liking.

Another factor to consider is the season in which you plan to get married. If you’re dreaming of an outdoor wedding, you’ll want to ask about the venue’s rain backup plan and whether or not they have a covered space in case of inclement weather. You’ll also want to consider the temperature and whether or not the venue has air conditioning or heating.

One of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make is whether to have an on-site planner on the day of the wedding or to hire a wedding planning company. Having an on-site planner can be convenient, as they will already be familiar with the venue and can help to coordinate all of the details on the day of the wedding. However, a wedding planning company can bring a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to the table. They may have relationships with vendors and can often negotiate better rates, which can save you money in the long run.

Ultimately, the choice between an on-site planner and a wedding planning company will depend on your personal preferences and budget. Both options have their own set of benefits, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Choosing the right wedding venue is a crucial step when planning your wedding day. By considering factors such as location, season, and the availability of an on-site planner, you can find a venue that meets all of your needs and creates the perfect atmosphere for your dream wedding.

Above all – ask all the questions you might have. The best venues will be the most supportive and will have someone on their team dedicated to helping you through every part of the process.

If you ever need input or recommendations we are always here to offer suggestions. Having worked with many venues throughout both the Ottawa area and the Peterborough area we are more than happy to provide valuable input into choosing the perfect venue for our wedding day.

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Advice News Wedding Dresses

Top Tips

Top Tips

Congratulations on your engagement! Whether your engagement happened just recently over the holidays, or a little while before that, we want to welcome you to our blog, and discuss a couple of the things you’ll want to think about before making your appointments at the top wedding gown boutiques in your area.

Choosing the right wedding gown is a big decision for any bride, and it can be overwhelming trying to find the perfect dress. If you’re in the Peterborough area, there are plenty of bridal stores to choose from, each offering their own unique selection and experience. Our first piece of advice is to do your research. Above all else, you want to know that you can trust in your stylist and in the bridal boutique that will be ordering your gown. They will be taking care of you, the bride, and your wedding dress for a long time and we like to think of it as a relationship. Be sure they are knowledgeable about their designers and their gowns. More so make sure they treat you with the utmost respect and will do everything in their power to make your gown perfect. No matter your size, your budget, or the gown you’re looking for, the best bridal shop will have all the answers and be more than happy to help you.

One of the first things to consider when shopping for a wedding gown is your budget. It’s important to have a rough idea of how much you’re willing to spend before you start trying on dresses. This will help narrow down your options and make the process less overwhelming. Be honest about this with the boutiques you want to visit. Every shop has wedding gowns in a range of prices, but you do not want to fall in love with a gown that is above your budget.

Next, think about your personal style and the overall look and feel you want for your wedding. Do you envision a traditional, formal ceremony or a more relaxed, bohemian celebration? Your dress should reflect the overall tone and theme of your wedding. Your wedding gown should be a reflection of you and your personal style. It should also enhance your beauty but it should also make you feel like the best representation of yourself on your wedding day.

It’s also helpful to bring along a trusted friend or family member for support and honest feedback. Gather a few of your closest people, but also be sure that the group you brings has only your best interest at heart. The style we are looking for in your wedding gown is the one that suits you best. You are the one who has researched styles, fits, designers, and budgets. If your party has not done this with you then they are not in the same shopping space you are.

As you start trying on dresses, pay attention to how each one makes you feel. When you find the one that gives you that “I said yes” moment, you’ll know it’s the one. Be aware if your personality is one that typically has an ah-ha moment, or if you lean into your emotions when making decisions. If you are more analytical and less emotional then it might not be the ah-ha moment for you. Instead, it’s perfectly normal to find your gown based on that being the one that ticks every box for you. Or it’s the one you can picture yourself walking down the aisle in. Or it’s the one you’re sure will make your partner’s jaw drop when they see you.

Above all, remember to have fun and enjoy the experience. Finding the perfect wedding gown should be an enjoyable and memorable moment in the lead-up to your big day. Best of luck on your search and reach out to us with any questions you have! We would absolutely love to share that moment with you and be involved in your big day!

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Advice News Wedding Dresses

Social Media

Social Media

Social media has revolutionized the way we shop for wedding dresses and find inspiration for our wedding day. With a simple search or hashtag, you can discover a plethora of options and styles to choose from. Here’s how to use some popular social media platforms to find the perfect wedding gown for you.

Instagram:

Instagram is a great place to start your search for a wedding dress. You can search for hashtags such as #weddingdress, #bridalgown, or #weddinginspo to see a variety of dresses and styles. You can also check out the accounts of bridal designers and boutiques to see their latest collections. For example, we will use #sindersbride for our past brides’ wedding photos, or #sindersbridalhouse when we want you to know that a certain gown is available in the boutique. If you find a dress you like, you can usually click on the tag or hashtag to see more dresses from that designer or collection.
One of the best things about using Instagram for your wedding dress search is that you can get a more personal look at the dresses. Many bridal boutiques and designers will post pictures of real brides wearing their dresses, so you can get an idea of how the dress looks on a real body rather than just on a model. You can also see how the dress looks in different settings, such as at the beach or in a garden, to help you envision your own wedding day. At Sinders Bridal – both the Ottawa and Peterborough locations – we have our stylists model new arrivals so that you can see what the gown will look like on a real person.


YouTube:

YouTube is another great resource for finding wedding dresses and getting inspiration. Many bridal boutiques and designers have their own YouTube channels where they showcase their latest collections or do dress try-on hauls. You can also find tons of wedding vlogs where brides document their dress-shopping journey and share their final dress choices. Watching these videos can give you a better idea of what it’s like to try on dresses and what to expect when you start shopping.
On our channel @sindersbridalhouse we will also walk you through the process of finding your gown, and what to expect when you arrive. We realize this can be a daunting experience for some so our hope is to ease as many nerves as we can and make you as comfortable as possible before you find your wedding gown!

Pinterest:

Pinterest is an excellent platform for collecting and organizing all of your wedding inspiration, including dresses. You can create a board specifically for wedding dresses and start pinning dresses that you like. You can also search for specific terms such as “lace wedding dresses” or “boho wedding dresses” to see a curated selection of dresses in your desired style.
One of the benefits of using Pinterest is that you can easily see how different dresses look when paired with different accessories, hairstyles, and makeup. You can also see how different styles of dresses look on different body types, which can be helpful if you’re unsure what style will flatter your figure.
Bridal shops that are technology savvy and who have a great social media presence will also have a Pinterest page. We have found that this is the best way to let our brides know what we have in stock so in your research stage be sure to look through our Pinterest page under Sinders Bridal. You’ll see boards designated for both Ottawa and Peterborough so you will know what you can find at the location that is closest to you.
Overall, social media is a great tool for finding and getting inspiration for your wedding dress. With the help of Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest, you can easily discover a wide range of options and styles to choose from.

We love being involved with our brides right from the research and planning stages that involve our social media platforms. If you have questions or need clarification on something you see on our social DM us, text, email, or call. We would love to help.
Happy dress shopping!

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Advice News Wedding Planning

Wedding Invitations

Wedding Invitations

There are so many parts to consider when you start planning your wedding. Some of the first things might be choosing a venue, or finding your wedding gown. But there is an important step that can come a little bit later on in the planning process which every couple will need to do… Invitations.

There are a few different options to consider, each with its own pros and cons. Here’s a comparison of making your own invitations by buying a digital download on Etsy, buying pre-made invitations, and having a designer make and personalize them by hand:

  1. Buying a digital download on Etsy: This is the most affordable option, as you can typically find a wide range of invitation templates for less than $20. The process is simple: just purchase the template, download it, and print it out at home or at a local print shop. You’ll need to have a good printer and some basic design skills to make the invitations look professional, but with a little bit of effort, you can create beautiful invitations on your own. The main downside is that you’ll be limited to the design options available on Etsy, so if you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, you might have to settle for something close.
  1. Buying pre-made invitations: If you don’t have the time or design skills to make your own invitations, you can purchase pre-made invitations online or at a local stationery store. These invitations are typically more expensive than digital downloads, but they’re also more convenient and often come with envelopes. The main downside is that you’ll be limited to the designs that are available, which might not match your wedding theme or style as closely as you’d like.
  1. Having a designer make and personalize invitations by hand: If you want the most unique and personalized invitations, you might consider hiring a designer to create them for you. This is the most expensive option, but it also gives you the most flexibility in terms of design. You can work with the designer to come up with a completely custom invitation that matches your wedding theme and style perfectly. The main downside is the cost, as custom invitations can be quite expensive. But if knowing your guests will receive the perfect introduction to your wedding day is important to you then this is definitely an option you should explore.

Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your budget, design skills, and how much time you have to devote to making your own invitations. If you have a limited budget and are comfortable with a DIY project, a digital download from Etsy might be the way to go. If you have a little more money to spend and don’t mind giving up some control over the design, pre-made invitations are a good choice. And if you want something truly unique and personalized, a designer might be the way to go.

In the end be sure it fits with the way you envision your wedding!

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Advice Dress Shopping News Wedding Planning

Wedding Planning Timelines

Letters to the newly engaged bride.

Congratulations on your engagement! Such an exciting time and there can be so many questions. Not to worry, we’ve been helping brides find their wedding gowns, and have been involved in weddings for over 20 years. We’re here to answer all the questions you have – even if it isn’t related to bridal gowns!

Sinders Bridal House has been in it’s Ottawa, Ontario location since 1987 and over the years we have had the pleasure of working with so many wedding professionals. It’s common for us, once the wedding season is over, to get together, lean into our creative sides, and work on a styled shoot. This gives us the opportunity to meet new people in our industry, but it also lets us share beautiful pictures with our followers, all created from our own imaginations.

What should my first step be?

Often from talking with our brides we hear that the first step is picking your venue. This has split recently considering post-pandemic weddings have branched out to include all sorts of different venues. If you plan to use a popular venue, if you really want to get married on a peak day like a Saturday or Sunday, or if you have one specific date in mind that absolutely has to be your wedding day. Then you should expect at least a year wait before your wedding can happen and the venue will need to be the first thing you plan because that will be your main starting point.

If you’re open to alternate solutions, or always loved the idea of getting married in your own backyard, then the venue will not likely be your biggest time constraint. At this point, you already have a partially formed idea of where you plan to have your wedding so you know the vibe you’re aiming for. This means your timelines might be more restricted by which piece is more important to your wedding day – wedding photographer, florist, or entertainment. And you can move forward even with separate steps even if you don’t have an exact date booked.

Secondary first steps…

We believe that the most important pieces of your wedding day – other than you and your fiancée(e)! – are the wedding photographer and your wedding gown. After all, those are the pieces that will create your memories that you will see hanging on your walls or posted on your social media for the rest of your life. Always read reviews when choosing your wedding photographer, but even more so, look through their portfolio to make sure that they match the look you want to have in your memories. Each photographer has a certain way they capture their images and a certain colour spectrum they work within. Are you looking for crisp colourful photos? Or what about black and white? Or blown out, or editorial style, or a bigger emphasis on candids? Always do your research on the photographers in your area, find a few in your style, then make an appointment to meet them. Honestly, they want to know that you will be a match personally just as much as you do. You both want to be sure that you’re on the same page from day one, so take this one seriously and you’ll love the visual memories you come away with.

Florists have busier seasons like all wedding professionals, but they also work within the constraints of which flowers and greenery are available at any given season. If you have your heart set on a specific flower or a certain colour scheme then it’s best to get input from the experts in this field so that you can book your wedding day within the correct time frame.

Entertainment. Meaning anything from a DJ to a live band to aerialists. This can be a pivotal part of your wedding day, or something that is extremely special to you as a couple. The more particular you get the more it will impact your timeline so find out when they are available early on before booking other professionals.

How finding your wedding dress fits into the timeline you have available.

When a bride asks us about timelines the simplest answer is that we love to be able to order your gown 9-12 months ahead of your wedding day. This gives us room to breathe in the delivery process, as well as several months on the end for alterations to your wedding gown. Though that is the dream timing for us, we always have to mention that whatever timeline you have is the ideal timeline to find a gown. The shortest timeline we have ever worked with is one week. No, I’m not pulling your leg. We look at it as ‘where there’s a will, there’s a way’. Thankfully we also work with some incredible designers who have helped us out by working their magic to get a bride her gown on an impossible timeline. These are more stressful, not just for us, but for you (our bride) as well. We are nothing but grateful to the brides who place absolute trust in us in these situations. But please give as much time as you can to order your gown so that you know this vital piece is taken care of and will not be the cause of extra stress leading up to your wedding.

In the end, the best place to start is the part of your wedding that is the most important to you. Take some time to picture what you want your day to look like. Picture you in your gown, your groom in his suit, or your bride in her gown/suit. Picture your surroundings, and picture the overall plan of what you and your guests will do throughout the day or evening. Then discuss with your partner which aspects are the most important for both of you. From there you’ll have a short list of things to focus on – a starting point.

Good luck and remember. If you have questions or are looking for suggestions we love to help! It’s an honour for us to be involved in your wedding day and we love to share our knowledge and experience with our brides!

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Advice Wedding Dresses Wedding Planning

Wedding Dress Timelines

Let’s talk wedding dress timelines.

Now that we are launching into our busy season here at Sinders, we’ve had a lot of questions on timelines. So that brings forth the tell-tale question:

“When SHOULD you be starting your journey on finding your wedding gown?”

Well, the truth is – it depends.

On average, wedding dresses can take between 6-9 months to order. This is of course paired with manufacturing, shipping, receiving, customization, accessorizing and general alterations. It can result in a recommended start date of up to 12 months before your desired wedding date.

Before you hit the panic button, we are going to help break down those factors for you. That way, you can be ready to hit the ground running when the time comes.

Here are the top 7 things to consider when crafting your wedding dress timeline:

1. What is your wedding vision?

Before we get into the nitty gritty of what goes into the creation of a garment, let us first start at the beginning.

It is no surprise that the minute you become engaged, an overwhelming number of questions start to pop into your head. Some of which you might not have considered when it comes to planning a wedding.

Location. Time of year. Guest list. Theme. Wedding party. Décor.

It can be a lot to think about.

BUT – these things are all integral pieces to solidifying your wedding vision and ultimately understanding what you may be looking for in a wedding dress.

You might have always envisioned yourself in a beautiful ballgown. Or a sweeping train. Heck maybe even satin ensemble.

Will this be what you may end up falling for?

Perhaps not.

But having an idea of your likes and dislikes are a great starting point.  Especially when knowing what type of timeline you will find yourself on when shopping for your dress. And even more so if this might include customizations.

2. What is the difference in dress designers?

A large reason that we provide such a wide timeframe when talking about timelines is due to the difference in designers we carry.

Simply put, no two designers are the same.

We don’t know which wedding dress that you are likely to say ‘yes’ to. So, it is extremely difficult for us to say exactly what your timeline should look like.

Rest assured though; each designer works diligently to ensure that your gown arrives nothing short of everything you imagined!

Beyond that, our talented team of stylists are here to help make your shopping experience seamless and extraordinary!

If you have your eye on a particular designer before starting your shopping journey, do not hesitate to contact us with any questions!

3. How many appointments are too many?

Far too often, we hear of brides having gone to dozens of stores, tried hundreds of wedding dresses and feel absolutely overwhelmed with the thought of having to choose. Or, brides so overpacked with appointment after appointment, that they don’t truly get the opportunity to live in the moment when they find the gown that beats them all!

We are by no means saying that going to a few different stores is a bad idea.

In fact, we suggest selecting even 2-3 of your favourite stores to really maximize your shopping experience. Go ahead – discover your style and explore your options!

Just do not overdo it!

We promise you after dozens of dresses and multiple appointments, it will start to become much more difficult to make a confident and informed decision. Plus, if you are someone who finds it difficult making daily decisions, this fact will only be magnified when trying on an abundance of gowns.

So, when shopping for your wedding dress trust the opinions of those around you. Your entourage, your stylist and most importantly – yourself. The joy and exuberance you feel when finally putting on ‘your dress’ should not be lost in the hustle and bustle of traffic.

If you know in your heart of hearts that you want to explore your options – do it!

In fact, consider making each of your selected stores a unique destination. Each store you visit will have its’ own unique atmosphere, selection, and ambiance. So let yourself enjoy them!

Do your research ahead of time. That way, you can go into each and every appointment prepared and know that you could very well walk out with your perfect dress!

Oh, and when you are ready to make your appointment with Sinders Bridal, let us be your final destination of course ;). 

4. Are there any external factors that could be impacting the industry?

You might be thinking, what the heck does this have to do with my shopping timeline?

The answer is quite a bit.

As we have seen over these past two years, our ecosystem is fragile. From mandated closures to capacity limits, and wedding postponements to shipping delays. We can never know what the future holds for our brides or the industry. So timelines become even more important.

If you have the time – consider working some wiggle room into your timeline. We promise you, the last thing you want to be when shopping for your dress is stressed out.

Not sure if your timeline will work? Give us a call. We can help you work through your timeline and make sure you are dressed and ready for your big day!

5. What goes into making the physical wedding gown?

This might seem implied, but give yourself time when shopping. Let the magic of your dress happen. Although it is completely possible to walk out of the store with a dress in your hand – more often than not, your journey is just beginning.

In fact – your dress can take 6-9 months to make its journey from your initial deposit to walking down the aisle.

From production and manufacturing to shipping and delivery. Your wedding dress takes months before arriving back at our boutique. From there, our dedicated quality control group will receive your gown, thoroughly checking each and every aspect of your gown. From seams to clasps and intricate beadwork. It is our job to be meticulous and ensure that your gown ready from top to bottom.

Once you’ve received your call and are able to come meet your dress – it is time to prepare for alterations. Depending on the amount of customizations you have gone with, alterations can take anywhere from 3-4 months to complete.

Add in shopping for accessories and some buffer room for yourself and we have quite a timeline!

Note: It felt wrong to not mention the incredible work that also goes into our custom wedding veils. Many of our veils at Sinders Bridal are hand-made with intricate beading and matching lacework that can take upwards of 5-6 months to complete. The last thing you want is to say yes to your dress and not give yourself enough time to find your perfect veil. Keep this in mind when creating your wedding timeline.  

6. What services do your chosen bridal boutiques offer?

Understanding what services are offered at your chosen bridal boutiques can have a large influence on your timeline.

Will you have the time needed to make the decision? Are you able to bring the number of guests you desire? Do they offer alterations and customizations?

The bottom line is every bridal boutique you visit will have the bread and butter of what you’re looking for (a wedding dress). Finding the right boutiques that have the offerings you are looking for can be the difference between weeks or months added to your timeline.

For the sake of an example, let’s say you are looking for a jaw-dropping train on your wedding dress.

Now, there is an excellent selection of wedding dresses on the market today that would be the perfect selection for your wedding day! Many options can be found both in-person or online. Each can be an incredible choice that will have little impact on your shopping timeline.

However, let’s say that having this train is non-negotiable.

If having a piece that’s your specific taste and style preferences is important, do not be surprised by a longer timeline. Finding that exact dress without having customization can be extremely difficult. You may find yourself at multiple appointments. With hundreds of gowns. All before realizing what you want may not exist on the market.

Enter customizations.

Customizations, although more time intensive, require skill and expertise of a dedicated team. A team who not only has familiarity with wedding dresses, but with your specific gown.

In this specific example, finding a bridal boutique that has a dedicated alterations team is important. A team experienced with the dresses can be the difference of dozens of headaches and one smooth and seamless shopping experience.  

Do your research. 

Choosing the correct stores for the experiences you want can ensure that your piece comes out as a perfect representation and reflection of who you are.

Did we mention at Sinders Bridal, you get exclusive access to Ottawa’s premiere seamstresses? 

7. Are you on a condensed timeline?

Okay, so we’ve given you what seems like a dozen reasons to give yourself as much time as possible when starting wedding dress shopping. You might be thinking, “Oh crap, I do not have that much time – I will never find a dress!”.  

That is certainly not the case.

Although more often than not the dresses are ordered – that does not mean that you can’t find a dress on a tight timeline.

Maybe you chose to have a short engagement. Or something has accelerated your plans and suddenly your day is fast approaching.

Enter sample gowns.

Yes, you heard us correctly. You can buy sample gowns right off the floor and walk out of a bridal store with your dress in hand!

Okay, okay, okay.

The options when going this route might be a little more limited, but where there is a will, we will find a way! In fact, there are often hundreds of sample gowns on the floor at one time, so rest assured that your gown is out there.

—

Let’s get real.

What is most important is to give yourself time, and know in your heart what feels right to you. Because, we could go on and on when it comes to talking timelines.

The moral of the story is – the longer your timeline, the less stressful. In the end, it isn’t our wedding day.

But… maybe consider making us your last stop.

Have your ‘Say Yes’ moment with Sinders. 

We will be behind you every step of the way. To inform you, provide for you, cheer you on and help you thrive. From the moment you walk in the doors, to the final fitting before your big day. Because when you become a Sinders bride, you become family. Every step of your engagement!

So go out there and shine beautiful.

 

Until next time,

The Sinders Team

 

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Advice Trends

Sinders Take on 2022 Bridal Trends

Let’s talk about bridal trends.

Whether it was bell-bottom jeans or shoulder-pads, velour tracksuits or tiny sunglasses… we have all been a victim of fashion trends throughout the ages. And no matter what side of fashion we end up on, there will always be joy in predicting what will re-emerge (or in some cases debut!) in the months ahead! 

That is why we at Sinders wanted to put a spin on the traditional fashion trends, and give you our predictions of 2022 bridal trends!

What do we think we will start seeing a lot more of? 

Ruffle bottoms? Statement sleeves? Cut-outs? 

Well, first we wanted to turn to the industry to see what their predictions were for bridal trends this year. 

The Industry Predictions on Bridal Trends

Working so heavily in the bridal industry means that there are MANY different opinions and expertise on what bridal trends are emerging, and will continue to do so this year. We thought there was no better place to start, then to hit the internet. 

After some very vigorous research, here is what the industry thinks. 

Some of these bridal trends that have seen a resurgence (at least on the runways) include: birdcage veils, high necklines paired with sleek and slimming silhouettes, pops of colour and jumpsuits. However, here is a rundown of a few of our favourites!

Mix of modern and traditional

There is no doubt that brides have continued to play along the line of traditions throughout the years, and that trend is not expected to stop any time soon. We continue to see a surge in more nontraditional bridal items being incorporated into modern bridal nuptials, and let us just say, we are here for it! So, there is no surprise to see this mix of modern and traditional nods when considering a bridal gown. 

Necklines 

Another beautiful thing that brides have shown the industry, is their interest in necklines! As we saw before, brides have shown an interest in bringing back more traditional elements like high neckline wedding gowns, and we love that. However, to get a bit more specific on the bridal trend that is taking the industry back by storm… we are talking square necklines. Where are all of the effortless classic brides at? If you’re looking for something with great support and coverage but still have your nod of trend, look no further. 

Exposed Corsets 

Hitting the industry by storm, is none other than exposed corsets. If you ask us, these statement elements are what we are here for! 

While the exposed boning and structure will give you an element of ‘sexiness’, exposed corsets will also provide great support on your big day! And don’t get us started on the beautiful sheer tulling featured!

Over the Top Statements

Okay, there are a lot of elements that can add a good statement to your wedding dress. One in particular that the industry has more than jumped behind is sleeves! 

A perfect over-the-top statement is a sleeve! Adding a sleeve can add such drama to your wedding dress, plus – they can be made removable. From a statement down the aisle, to the comfort of your reception, get the best of both worlds!

However, we are keeping our eyes on ruffles… because baby are they ever coming back strong! 

Pops of Colour and Florals

The industry has spoken, and pops of colour with beautiful floral inspirations have hit the runways. This is much deeper than a blend of biscotti or mocha, but rather creating something that is perfectly and uniquely YOU. 

This is an incredible option for brides looking for something a little more outside of the box, as it provides the opportunity to showcase personality and style down the aisle. 

Pearls

Our last addition to the trends within the industry is none other than pearls! What can we say, pearls can be such an elegant and classic way to highlight your wedding dress on your big day. We are seeing a step-up from your typical family heirlooms, where pearls are now becoming feature statements of your day. 

From your wedding dress, to your veil, your jewelry to your shoes. Pearls are an excellent and cohesive statement on the runways and off. 

Our Team Predictions on Bridal Trends

After scouring the internet for the trends we are seeing on the runways, we thought it would be nice to compare to what we have seen (and think we may continue to see) in the store. 

I am in no manner saying that we have psychic powers to predict upcoming fashion faux pas, but we have a pretty good idea of where we think the industry might be going. I mean… we do see an incredible number of beautiful dresses come and go through our shop each year.

So, what better way to explore this than to touch base with each of our bridal stylists! We’ve put their knowledge and experience to the test to put together our top bridal trend predictions for this year!

Amanda

There is nothing more stunning than having an elegant wedding dress with a modern slit. When thinking of what dresses we will continue to see more of, this was certainly a contender. 

If you’re thinking this might be the vibe you are looking for, some great suggestions would be Essense of Australia D3460, or Nahal by our Pronovias Privée line.

Bobbi 

Let’s take a moment to talk about sleeves. We definitely love what flair they can add to a dress, and have definitely seen a larger variety of them hitting the market these days. From a detachable option, to statement elements of dress designs, we are living for this trend.

Looking for a fun sleeve? Try out Stevie by La Perle (LP2009), or Taya by L’Amour (LA22122).

Debbie 

An absolute classic in the past, and will continue to be moving forward is satin. Now, there are so many options for gowns when it comes to satin. Don’t be alarmed! What is certainly trending in our stores now, is silky-smooth satin gowns!

If you’re thinking of keeping things classic and comfortable, perhaps look to Essense of Australia D2761. 

 

Hayley 

Alright, now here is something else we cannot get enough of… sparkle and beading of course! We have continued to see so many brides wanting something glamorous and shimmery for their big day, and dresses with intricate beading and sparkle lining have never left us disappointed. 

Think that this could be something you’re looking for as well? Try out our new stock D3386 and D3395 by Essense of Australia!

Val

Another fan of the modern with a twist of traditional gowns is Val. To be fair, we will continue to drool over this trend because who can resist it? We know, coloured gowns have hit the market with a vengeance, and they will certainly be here to stay as well, but let’s just take one more moment to love our ivory gowns. 

If you’re looking for ivory, try out Essense of Australia D3399 or La Perle Ambrose (LP2206). 

BONUS

You didn’t honestly think we would finish this off without the thoughts of Stacey and Meghan did you?! 

Don’t worry. We caught their ideas too. 

Meghan

It’s nothing new that sparkle has been a trend in the wedding industry for the last few years, but if we’ve seen anything in our boutique it’s that both our brides and our designers say it is here to stick around. 

If you’re looking for a stunning gown with some major sparkle, take a look at our new Pronovias gown, Bimmah. 

Stacey

When you see so many gowns come and go through the shop, it is hard to pick just one as a trend contender. However, this year we definitely think pearls and beading are making their statement. Gowns without lacework offer a different look for the bride!

If you’re wanting something without lacework, check out Henrietta or Sondong by Pronovias. 

The Verdict 

The true prediction is that we have no idea what kind of bridal trends are going to manifest themselves this year. But, what an incredible opportunity we have to help these beautiful brides discover themselves and their own trendy styles, each and every day. 

Remember, what is most important is that you find something that aligns with YOUR vision. 

Work with your stylist and seamstress to create the wedding dress of your dreams, no matter what bridal trend it may or may not fall into! 

Until next time, 

The Sinders Team 

**If you like any of these gowns and want to see more of what we have in our inventory, check out Sinders Bridal House on Pinterest here!

Categories
Advice Trends

The Wedding Boom – Is the minimony here to stay?

Over the past year we have seen a number of wedding trends emerge. From the infamous minimony to sequel celebrations – it is safe to say that love cannot be cancelled. But our question is this… are they here to stay? 

If you ask us, any variation of an event centered around love between you and your partner is the way to go. Whether that be an intimate vow exchange at a destination that means something of significance, or a grand celebration in front of the entirety of those that have made an impact in your life. 

Really, there is no wrong way to get married. 

On top of that, we anticipate more weddings in the next year than ever before. Vendors alike continue to push to help millions of couples find their way down the aisle. This opens up plenty of opportunity for new trends to flourish, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store. 

With all of that said, we wanted to break down the terms that you might have started to hear more of over the past year. And maybe throw in our two cents on the topic!

  1. Elopement 
  2. Micro-Wedding
  3. Minimony
  4. Sequel Wedding

Elopement

Okay, so elopements may have gotten some mixed messaging surrounding them over the past few years. Traditionally, an elopement is considered to be an unplanned event. It is attended by only the couple and their witnesses. Typically they were performed in secret (although that’s not a requirement).  

So, what may make an elopement a preferred choice for you? 

Well, firstly – elopements can be a tonne of fun. Your options as a couple are quite honestly endless! Are you lovers of extreme adventure? Seekers of one-of-a-kind scenery? Helicopter fanatics!? Elopements can result in some pretty extraordinary, truly authentic moments. 

We are talking jaw-dropping, heart-melting, tear-jerking kind of moments. 

Photo by Phillipa Maitland Photography

Elopements can also be a great way to keep your nuptials cost effective, intimate and stress-free, allowing the entire focus to be on you and your partner.  

Wherever, whenever and however your elopement comes to life, the important thing is that your ceremony, reception, and vows are 100% authentically you. 

Micro-wedding

Now, a micro-wedding is a wonderful cross between an elopement and a larger traditional ceremony. Welcoming up to 50 guests, a micro-wedding offers both immediate family and close friends to join the couple in celebration. Also while providing the couple more time and focus to be placed on the smaller details of the day. 

A perfect solution to those still wanting to share their day with loved ones, splurge on some details and not become completely overwhelmed by the number of guests in attendance.

Photo by Rosielle + Co

What might make a micro-wedding right for you? 

Well, first-off, let us make this clear. A smaller guest count does not mean cutting out on your experience! There are still plenty of opportunities to showcase those time-honoured traditions with your partner and guests. In fact, a micro-wedding is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with the more intimate moments of your wedding day. Think ‘designer’ wedding if you may. 

An additional bonus of micro-weddings is that you can spend more time with your partner and your guests throughout the day! With a smaller guest list, you can even personalize their experience, with hand-written notes at their place cards, or have wedding favours personalized to each guest. 

Just like hosting a very large dinner-party with all of your favourite people. Micro-weddings certainly hold a warm place in our hearts!

Minimony

Which leads us to this. Much like its predecessor the micro-wedding, a minimony is exactly what it implies, a ‘mini’ wedding ceremony. It is held with the couple, their witnesses and up to 15 guests. 

But, how does this differ from a micro-wedding you may ask? 

Well, unlike an elopement, a minimony has experienced a surge in popularity throughout the pandemic. Allowing couples the chance to honour their original wedding date, while postponing their previously planned grandiose nuptials.

Simply put, if you’re still planning to host a large-scale wedding in the following months or years from your originally planned date, it’s a minimony! 

Photo by Rubicon Photography

Held with your officiant, small group of loved ones and select wedding vendors, a minimony refocuses the emphasis toward the finer details of the couple. It is an excellent choice to celebrate your love story in a unique and beautifully connected way. In fact, many find a minimony to be much more meaningful than expected!

Plus, there are some incredible benefits of planning a minimony! 

Firstly, your venue options are nearly limitless. With a smaller guest list and ability to appropriately social distance, you could find yourself saying “I do” anywhere from a beautiful backyard to the middle of a national park!

Furthermore, this is another great option to remove stress, cut back on costs and open your mind to an entirely personalized day for you. 

Goodbye seating charts, hello family-style dinner! 

Just remember, however you originally planned your wedding day, there are always options. 

Sequel Wedding

Finally, a sequel wedding. Although not an entirely new term, a sequel wedding has also experienced a surge in popularity following the ongoing impacts of COVID-19. Much like its name suggests, a sequel wedding is when a couple celebrates their marriage in more than one ceremony. 

In the past, a sequel wedding was an excellent option for blending family traditions, managing complex expectations and providing convenience to the couple to plan their celebrations as they wish. However, more recently the sequel wedding has emerged as a follow-up of the minimony. This allows for the couple to celebrate with the entirety of their family, friends and loved ones. 

Photo by Fallon Michael on Unsplash

Think of this as the ‘part two’ of your wedding, if you may. 

And no, unlike the blockbusters, this is a sequel that you won’t be disappointed in. 

This might sound like a little more work, BUT, the benefits of hosting a sequel wedding are worth the work! With the stress of your nuptials behind you, a sequel wedding is your chance to celebrate with everyone!

When it comes to planning your sequel wedding, there are options! It’s important to understand what is important to have for each event. This not only eliminates stress but also distinguishes from your first wedding. 

Perhaps the sequel wedding will have a shorter ceremony, so you can have more time to spend with your guests. Maybe you switch it up with a completely different bridal look!

The thing with sequel weddings is that their rulebooks are still being written! What is important is that no matter what, create the experiences YOU want to have on the day. 

Verdict

That was a lot of information – we know! 

But, if you’re still following us, you’re asking “What was your verdict? Are they here to stay or not!?” 

Well, if you ask me… the minimony has provided us with some of the most mesmerizing moments to look back on in a time of chaos. It has helped ground us and show that love between two humans should not be overpowered by guest lists, wedding favours or catering. And most importantly, that perseverance and a little flexibility can overcome truly anything. 

Whether it be an elopement, micro-wedding or minimony, they truly are the perfect moment to showcase the personality, creativity and background of each and every couple. And, much like the brides we see everyday, no two are ever exactly the same – which is so beautiful! 

So, yes – let’s keep these coming! 

–

Enjoy reading this blog? Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Terminology

Categories
Advice Wedding Planning

10 tips for an out of the ordinary courthouse wedding

LOW-KEY FABULOUS WAYS TO MAKE YOUR BIG DAY STAND OUT

Wedding season hasn’t quite been the same since 2020 reared its ugly head. Whether your lavish wedding was cancelled due to the pandemic or you’re more inclined to organize a low-key affair for the big day, courthouse weddings are seeing a resurgence.

The rigmarole of wedding planning can be overwhelming at best, so there’s no surprise that the simplicity of courthouse weddings are attractive to couples who want to get through the “I dos” and just be married already. After all, isn’t the marriage the most exciting part of it all anyway?

With that said, as quick and simple as courthouse weddings can be, they can sometimes leave you feeling a sense of “was that it?” There are floral arches, breathtaking views, regal aisles, or themed décor (unless an old wooden-clad office lined with ancient books and an inch of dust is your thing).

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to make the event a little more special. There are a number of things you and your partner can do to transform your quaint ceremony into something spectacular.

BENEFITS OF A COURTHOUSE WEDDING

LESS EXPENSIVE (LIKE, WAYYYY LESS)

According to a 2017 survey, the average cost of a Canadian wedding is over 42K, with almost 88 per cent accounting for the ceremony, reception, and other expenses like flowers, entertainment, photography, and stationary.

A courthouse wedding in Canada costs less than $200.

LESS TIME PLANNING

When you cut out major time-consuming elements of wedding planning like searching for the location, booking the venue, searching for backup locations, picking themes, music, seating, programs for the ceremony – you get the picture – you’ll have less stress since the amount of time spent planning a courthouse wedding pales in comparison to a traditional wedding.

We found a study published in 2019 by The Independent, and they determined that the average time it takes to plan a modern wedding is around 528 hours.

LESS STRESS AND PRESSURE

Naturally, when you spend less time and money planning an event, you feel less stress and pressure from deadlines, timelines, choices, and accommodating your needs and the needs of everyone invited.

MORE INTIMATE

You can’t cram in 150 guests into your courthouse wedding, so there’s no need to be shy when working on your invitation list and slashing through names that don’t make the cut. That’s one of the joys of having a courthouse wedding, you can surround yourself with only the people you love most.

WAYS TO MAKE YOUR COURTHOUSE WEDDING MORE SPECIAL

Getting married is special enough as it is, but if you wanted to zhuzh up your courthouse ceremony, check out these ten tips!

GO ALL OUT ON YOUR DRESS

Just because you’re getting married in a courthouse or at city hall doesn’t mean you have to deny yourself the incredible joy of wearing a gorgeous wedding gown perfectly designed for your style and personality.

At the end of the day, the moment is about you and your partner and the love you share, so splurge on what will make you look and feel your absolute best on your last day of singlehood. There’s truly nothing better than getting ready and slipping into your dream gown, taking a twirl, and knowing you’re the most beautiful person in the world at that moment.

Read More: WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR DRESS SHOPPING EXPERIENCE DURING A PANDEMIC

PAMPER YOURSELF

Following the theme of doing whatever makes you happy on your wedding day, take a moment for some self-care. Whether that’s getting a facial, a mani-pedi, a 90 min massage, doing hot yoga, meditating, dirt biking, getting your favourite breakfast a greasy spoon, or going on a shopping spree, spend the time before your ceremony to check in with yourself and indulge.

HOST A RECEPTION

You’ve said, “I do,” you’ve signed the papers, and now you’re married. It’s time to celebrate! There’s no need to hold back on your reception. In fact, you have so many great options to commemorate this joyous event.

Throw a bash, host a party, rent a cottage, have an intimate dinner party, make it a little more formal with a venue, or even throw a “surprise, we’re married” style party.

INVITE YOUR FAVOURITES ONLY

Do you remember when MySpace was relevant, and you could pick your top ten besties to have on your wall? Think of your courthouse wedding like that.

There may be some hurt feelings, but the day is about you and your partner, no one else has a vote in how you choose to get married.

Invite your core group – the people who truly know you and want to support your exciting new endeavour. But be sure to call ahead to find out how many people you’re allowed to bring with you. Some courthouses have limits, especially due to the pandemic.

SPLURGE ON FLOWERS

Bring colour, vibrance, and life to the courthouse with a flourishing bouquet adorned with your favourite blooms. Flowers are seasonal and, particularly when they’re from specialty shops, can run a bit of a bill, so call ahead, find out what their selection is and place your order for your wedding day.

BOOK A STYLISH RIDE TO WHISK YOU AWAY

There’s always the tried-and-true limo or UberX, but did you know you can rent luxury vehicles and old-fashioned specialty cars for the day? You can arrive at your ceremony in style and step out of a car even James Bond would envy.

INCORPORATE SOME OF YOUR OWN TRADITIONS

Every family has its own set of traditions, whether they relate to the holidays, seasons, or weddings – there’s usually something you do that is unique to you and your loved ones.

Well, you can also apply these traditions to a courthouse wedding!

Take a moment to think about what is important to you and what rituals, observances, or other unique elements you want to factor into your ceremony.

WRITE YOUR OWN VOWS

You are two very unique people with shared life experiences, so it’s fitting to write your own vows to express your special bond.

HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER

Just like a traditional wedding, you’ll need someone around you to capture the magic.

And we don’t mean your bestie hosting an Instagram live stream of your nuptials.

Make it a priority to hire a photographer and videographer – oftentimes, they can do both – so you can cherish the day for years to come.

They will fall under your wedding party, so make sure you factor them into your final count for the ceremony.

SELECT A GORGEOUS PHOTO BACKDROP

Whether you’re posing in the park, gathering in the garden, or doing a photo shoot at home, your backdrop will make a world of difference.

Scout for the ideal location for your wedding photos or purchase/rent backdrops to host your own photo shoot. If you’ve hired a photographer, they usually have backdrops, so be sure to ask them ahead of time.

Psst – Don’t forget to have a backup location in case the weather doesn’t go in your favour!

A courthouse wedding may be completely customizable, but these ten tips can elevate your experience and allow you to represent who you are, your unique personalities, and the incredible love you have for each other.

In the end, it’s not about the things or the location. The most important part is that you’re with the love of your life, and you’re about to embark on a magical journey together. Make your memories, share love and laughter, and enjoy the ride!

Categories
Advice Dress Shopping Wedding Dresses

The different types of undergarments to wear under your wedding dress

SOLVING COMMON BRIDAL UNDERGARMENT DILEMMAS

With so much focus on finding your dream wedding gown, we often forget about what we need to wear underneath the dress – which is almost as important! To help you you choose the right bridal undergarments that will give you the perfect silhouette on your wedding day, we’ll provide solutions to common undergarment dilemmas and offer tips for finding the perfect bridal undergarments.

THE IMPORTANCE OF WEARING THE RIGHT BRIDAL UNDERGARMENTS UNDER YOUR GOWN

Undergarments may seem like an afterthought, but they really are important. They have the power to completely alter your silhouette, provide support when needed, and help you look your absolute best in your gown.

Most brides imagine themselves wearing a beautiful lingerie set under their wedding dress, however, something more comfortable and practical that will give you a streamlined silhouette and won’t show under your gown is often a better way to go.

COMMON UNDERGARMENT DILEMMAS

DO I NEED TO WEAR A BRA?

We hear this question a lot. Whether there are concerns of modesty or needing support, the question of whether to wear a bra with your wedding dress is an incredibly common dilemma for brides.

The beauty of wedding dresses is that in most cases, you do not need to wear a bra. Many dresses are designed with built-in cups or can be customized during alterations to add more support. This is great for dresses that are low cut and/or backless that would not be able to hide a bra.

However, that’s not to say that you can’t wear a bra under your gown. If you feel you need the extra support and your dress will conceal a bra, then you can absolutely wear one. It’s all about finding what makes you feel most comfortable.

YOU WANT A SMOOTHER SILHOUETTE IN A FITTED GOWN

While many fitted gowns are structured to create a beautiful silhouette, you may find that you’d like things smoothed out a bit more. In this case, shapewear or seamless nude underwear can help smooth everything out so there are no bumps or visible panty lines.

TYPES OF BRIDAL UNDERGARMENTS TO CONSIDER

SHAPEWEAR

If you’ve chosen a fitted gown, shapewear is a great way to ensure everything is smooth and seamless.

If your dress is snug around your hips and thighs, look for shapewear that starts at your natural waist and extends just above the knees.

Just remember that if you do decide to wear shapewear under your gown, you will need to bring it with you to every fitting as it can have a significant impact on the fit of your dress.

SLIP

If your dress is slightly sheer or slinky, a slip will provide a smooth canvas and ensure no undergarments are showing.

CORSET

If your dress doesn’t have a built-in corset, but you’d like to get the cinched in effect that one provides, a custom-fitted corset is a great way to achieve the silhouette that you want. However, also keep in mind that comfort is incredibly important on your wedding day and that you don’t want anything standing in the way of enjoying your wedding and dancing the night away.

LINGERIE

If you’ve had your heart set on a beautiful piece of lingerie for your wedding night, that’s okay too. Just be sure that it’s in a lighter colour so that it won’t be visible and detract away from your beautiful dress. Try to stay away from black, red, or bright colours unless you’ve gone with a non-traditional coloured gown.

BACKLESS BRA

If you’re wearing a backless dress but need more support than just cups alone can offer, there are backless bras on the market that can help.

SEAMLESS NUDE UNDERWEAR

Every bride needs a great pair of seamless nude underwear that will appear invisible under your wedding dress. We promise you’ll thank us later.

TIPS FOR FINDING THE RIGHT UNDERGARMENTS

ASK YOUR BRIDAL STYLIST

When shopping for your wedding dress, don’t be afraid to ask your bridal stylist what types of undergarments you may need for a particular dress. Your stylist will know which dresses have elements like built-in corsets or cups, and which ones can be customized during alterations.

BRING YOUR UNDERGARMENTS TO DRESS SHOPPING AND FITTINGS

If you have a good idea of the style of dresses you’ll be trying on and know what type of undergarments you will need, bring these to your initial shopping appointment and all subsequent fittings. This includes nude underwear, a strapless nude bra, or shapewear if you plan to wear it.

GET PROFESSIONALLY FITTED

Around 80% of women wear the incorrect bra size, so if you do plan to wear a bra under your wedding dress, be sure to get properly fitted at a lingerie store so that it not only fits perfectly but is comfortable and looks great under your dress.

FACTOR IN COMFORT

While every bride wants to look beautiful on their wedding day, it’s also important that you are comfortable as well. Throughout your wedding day, you will be on your feet a lot, from walking down the aisle to greeting guests, dancing, and eating. So, you want to make sure that you are going to enjoy the festivities, and not spend the whole night feeling miserable and uncomfortable. Make sure that your undergarments aren’t too tight and constricting and allow you to sit and move around comfortably.

The takeaway here is that wedding dresses and undergarments go hand in hand, so it’s important to factor this in when shopping for gowns and planning your head-to-toe bridal look. When in doubt, plan for comfort and practicality. And of course, ask your bridal stylist for recommendations. Because with the right pair of undergarments, your bridal look will come together flawlessly, so you can feel nothing but confident while walking down the aisle.