Maria Gina Marques (our cover bride) and her husband Jeffery are lucky. Lucky because they’ve had a chance to see the best of each. To grow together and go through things together.
Jeff and Maria Gina started off as “just work friends”, grabbing quick lunches and hanging out with
the office crowd after work.It wasn’t until Maria Gina got a new job offer that Jeff told her how he felt
about her. It was just too awkward when theyworked together every day. But before they had a chance
to fully develop their relationship, Maria Gina was diagnosed with a haemorrhaging spinal tumour.
At the time the good news was that it wasn’t cancer. The bad news was that she might never
walk again. They were young (she was 23 and he was 26). But what you’d expect to happen, didn’t.
Even though they’d been dating for a mere 2 months, Jeff never left. In fact, he never left her side.
Through the cat scan they discovered that there was a chance that she could walk again, and after
8 hours of surgery, Maria Gina and Jeff started their road to recovery. A long road that led to a
New York City, a horse-drawn carriage and a one knee proposal. “A positive attitude, understanding
that we all have ourchallenges in life, respect for each other and love for each other. That’s what
makes it work!” Maria Gina Marques
Fresh homemade pasta, lean meats; authentic homemade goodness. Cannelloni, Ravioli, Parmigiana and the best Lasagna in the Southern Peninsula. With so many different types your guests will definitely be fed well. And the tastes are amazing.
The luxury of Pasta Fresca is wholesome simplicity. Fresh, #1 quality ingredients with no preservatives and no additives. Stuffed peppers, cabbage rolls, pizzas made the true Italian way.
No matter what favourites your guests are hoping for, Pasta Fresca will deliver fresh and authentic foods with full service or in a buffet style. Whether for the reception, a shower or stag or even the rehearsal party, let us custom design your menu, exclusively for you.
“I would like to see every proud parent experience
the same joy as I did at my daughter Mara’s wedding in Hamilton last year!” Barry Sobel
For many brides, the dress is the ultimate component of their wedding, and for more
than 80 years, Rainbow Bridal Canada has
pampered area brides with the utmost in
quality and selection … and the
perfect dress… year after year.
The first all-bridal wear shop in North America, the original Rainbow Shops Ltd was opened by William Ginsberg in 1927. By 1951, the prosperous business moved to its current location at 105 King St. E. In 1978, Barry Sobel, Mr. Ginsberg’s grandson, took the helm of the company. With his mother Beverly by his side, and surrounded by a team of talented and dedicated staff, several of whom have been with the company for decades, Rainbow has an unmatched and enviable relationship with leading manufacturers of bridal wear in North America; a profound knowledge of all the distinct needs, special attention and unrivalled service required by today’s
bride and bridal party.
“My mother has been the eyes and the ears of the company for 79 years,”
Mr. Sobel says proudly.
“She’s still here Thursday and Friday nights as well as every weekend.”
Mr. Sobel’s son Brandon brings in the fourth family generation dedicated to providing brides with an exceptional experience – the same philosophy that Brandon’s great grandfather so successfully mastered; courteous, knowledgeable, personal service and the best possible bridal wear purchase experience. •
“ Our goal has always been to provide responsible, reliable and honest service to everyone who walks through our door,” says Mr. Sobel “We strive to offer high fashion
and quality at fair prices.”.
Imagine having your wedding by the thundering beauty of Niagara Falls or with the breathtaking beauty of a world-renowned garden as your backdrop. Attentive service, settings like no place else on earth and superb venues – the picture-perfect venue for your special day.
Imagine the wedding of your dreams. Exchange vows in a garden so magnificent it will leave you breathless. Stand veiled in the quaint charm of a historic chapel … or share your first kiss as husband and wife in hushed tranquility, beside a beautiful willow pond. It’s perfection and it’s waiting at Niagara Parks.
Fallsview and riverfront venues, secluded gardens or fully serviced banquet halls for the wedding reception of your dreams; intimate dinners for 20 or gala events for up to 600. Whether you seek quiet elegance or high style and sophistication, Niagara Parks Weddings are the perfect answer.
Experienced and professional staff will work with you to plan every detail – whether you want a small and casual gathering or a gala event. From flowers to musical entertainment, exquisite Niagara cuisine or an award-winning selection of VQA wines, Niagara Parks’ Wedding Specialists will help you find all that you need for your special day.
They can advise you on the perfect photo locations, make you aware of discounts on ceremony site fees (when you book both a ceremony and a reception) and help with suggestions of locations for bridal showers, rehearsal dinners and private dinners.
They’ll answer all your questions, accompany you on site tours, assist with local accommodations, recommend photographers or arrange for shuttle services for your guests. They’ll provide the personal care and attention that your special day deserves.
Photos courtesy of Kathy White, Absolute Image Photography
I love doing premarital counseling with couples planning a wedding. I love seeing their eyes light up with unanticipated “ah hah” moments. It is beautiful and deeply spiritual.
When I observe a couple connecting “heart to heart” for the very first time, it’s a thrill to behold! In that moment, we all know we’re on “holy ground”. As they imagine the privilege of being a partner in a marriage relationship filled with such moments, it becomes an uncommon goal worth pursuing.
As the wedding day approaches, the focus of the couple unavoidably turns to the details of that special day. That is why it is most helpful to have premarital sessions well in advance. It is an important and rare time to look closely at how this relationship works (or in some cases doesn’t!). Long after the wedding day has passed, the reality of a life together sets in. There is wisdom in considering what that reality might look and feel like.
In a relationship, the little things really are the big things. Little things like communicating well day in and day out; learning the skill of helping your spouse feel heard and understood; finding the courage to express what your thoughts and needs are in a respectful way; dealing with conflict without becoming abusive; examining what values we learned as children and looking for their affect on our perception of “normal”; appreciating the unique personality traits of one another; and examining how the goals we set relate to our patterns of managing the money we earn. These are basic principles that are too often ignored, akin to building a house without a good foundation. Yet statistics tells us that too many of us do just that.
When my path as a Christian Minister crosses yours, I do not take it for granted or consider it to be coincidental. To be part of someone’s wedding day is a privilege for me. I always hope and pray that in the few sessions we have together we will plan a day that is a joyful “holy moment” to be cherished for a lifetime.
Such moments often lead to others. For instance, it’s important at times to call on a friend to seek advice or share some news. I love those phone calls and visits. And it’s sheer joy to hear of the next big thing happening in the journey of the married couple.
From visits to a hospital where I get to hold in my arms the miracle of new born babies, to funeral homes where I seek to comfort couples in grief, to family struggles where their ship is being tossed about by a stormy sea, to the port where we say bon voyage as they go on the adventure of a lifetime together – what’s not to love about premarital counseling? Invest in some “ah ah moments” before your big day!
Reverend Carson Culp
Christ Community Church
Welland, Ontario
905.732.6010
www.cccwelland.com
Photo courtesy of Charity Swords Photography
The Gown
“Whitney” by Maggie Sottero
One piece, strapless, A-line gown with lace-up or zipper over an inner lace-up closure. This style captures Hollywood glamour in French Taffeta and features a sweetheart neckline and an embellished Venise Lace dropped waist. Godets create fullness in the skirt while an elegant sash encircles the natural waistline adding a touch of sweetness to this sophisticated style.
Available in White with White sash, Diamond White with Diamond White sash and Ivory with Vienna Cream sash.
_________________________________
Photograph by Richard Sibbald
Hair & Makeup: www.paullangill.com
Models Rachel & Dan: www.geoffreychapman.com
Gowns: Rainbow Now Bridal Hamilton
Tuxedos: Blakes Menswear Seaway Mall
Floral Arrangements: Dobbie’s Florist
Shot on Location at: The Sterling Inn & Spa Niagara Falls
Elegant environs and attentive staff, gorgeous gardens and stellar food, modern decor and stylish amenities, it’s sublime but how to make it mine?
I met my guy at a hockey game. Childhood sweethearts, with our fondest memories of ice and happiness. One of my best friends always jokes about how her husband and she really want to be circus clowns. Another remembers her courtship at the cottage.
I guess this is what’s behind the trend of themed weddings. You want to celebrate your union but also your life. You’ve never been so happy. You know that somehow you need to capture it all on your wedding day. Your big day is just that… the culmination of all your dreams and expectations from childhood up until that most momentous day. You’ve got your groom, a fabulous dress and an entourage of loved ones to cheer you on. All you need is the perfect event partner to bring it all together and make your life-long dream the most amazing reality.
Fantasy touches of sheer organza, tailored chair covers, fine linens – in your colours. Sparkling crystal, twinkling fairy lights reflecting Cirque du Soleil type performers, exquisite authentic foods that make family culture a part of the experience. Naturally, the choices are unlimited – just like
your dreams.
With experts to help craft an event that is uniquely you – you needn’t worry. Wedding specialists help you throughout the planning process, they’re trained to hold your hand (or even your train) and they are there, on-site, to make certain that every detail is meticulously carried out. After all, it’s your party, you are supposed to relax and enjoy the celebration.
So, say your “I do’s” under the warmth of the sun and continue the party amongst the flowers. Make it an all weekend affair with a swanky Friday evening celebration. Opulent and chic,
fun and interactive – Reflect
your life – your way.
A wedding is an observance of love and commitment, of your life and your memories. At White Oaks we are wholly committed to your joyful beginning. A beginning filled with promise and hope. For these and many other reasons, it will be your wedding that gets talked about well after you say your first good-byes as a married couple. You expect your day to be perfect. Absolutely perfect.
Luckily so do we.
Don’t wait until the blood vessels in your eyeballs burst! Yes, it happened to one of our brides! She was so stressed out that she actually burst the blood vessels in her eyes, two weeks before her wedding! Imagine the photo touch ups.
Expecting the perfect shade of magenta in the petal of the boutonniere is a stressor. Making your goal – an absolutely, undeniably, unutterably, perfect day, sets you up for disappointment and stress.
But brides do turn it around:
When the mother of the bride’s corsage was missing,… instead of freaking out…the bride calmly created a corsage from the bridesmaids’ bouquets.
When the limo didn’t show up ……the maid of honour arranged for her husband’s cool Pink 56 Cadillac.
When the seamstress pulled a “midnight run”, eight bridesmaids strode through the cathedral, past the 400; hair and make up done, with beautiful flowers, and – wearing jeans and T-shirts!!!!
All it takes is a bride who knows that all of her friends are standing up for her….that’s the important thing! As the Secret’s law of attraction states, what you focus on comes to you.
What you think about, You bring about. Brides with unrealistic expectations… have the worst experiences! Being relaxed and easy going creates amazing wedding days, despite obstacles.
Our advice: Let the cake be the wrong flavour, let the flowers be the wrong shade and don’t stress about the dress. Have a wonderful wedding day because of your positive mental attitude! Look into the eyes of the person you love and pledge your lives together, forever.
Decide ahead of time which bride you are going to be and, for help during the planning stage, hire a wedding planner. Remember to vent, vent, vent, you’ve got to get those feelings out because a pressure cooker can explode, at the wrong person, at the wrong time. Take some physical release; yoga, exercise, running, meditation, sex … or just throw in the towel (be it magenta or burgundy or candy apple red) for a Destination Wedding.
Photos courtesy of Kim Cartmell, Focus On You Photography and
Kathy White, Absolute Image Photography.
The person you love more than anything else in the world just asked for your hand in marriage. Now, the task is to decide when, where and how your wedding day is going to unfold.
Planning a wedding is one of the most important times in a couples’ life – no matter what your age or financial status. It’s a decision that needs some serious consideration whether you’re blending two families, 3 pets and a home, or you’re simply, two special human beings, dedicated to taking your relationship to entirely new level of commitment.
As a non-denominational ‘freelance’ minister, I may be biased, but, I feel that the ceremony is the most important part of the day…..no matter what your religious beliefs, family background, number of years together or age.
I also believe that the 21st century has brought an awareness of an incredible spiritual energy – a much higher ‘vibration’. Many seem to be ‘awakened’ to this energy.
Couples want to bring more of themselves and of their divine essence to their ceremony. They want to create an experience that they will enjoy, but also one that gives their guests, who simply are a part of it, a gift of the heart.
An experience that touches people in a way that connects them to their ‘source’, in whatever capacity they see it!
I am not referring to a ‘religious’ experience here. For some it is simply being in nature, for others it’s having meaningful conversations with friends. For me, it means simply living your life with meaning, kindness and connectedness.
To help couples make decisions about the kind of wedding ceremony they want, one of the first questions I like them to answer is –
“How do you want to feel, and how do you want your guests to feel when the day comes to an end?”
I work with each couple to create an unforgettable experience & lasting ambiance. After all, doesn’t every couple, young and old, approach their wedding with the belief that this is the only time they will say ‘I do’? It is this belief that creates something memorable to be cherished and treasured for many years to come.
Over the years, the greatest compliments I’ve received are from couples whose guests continue to comment on their ceremony, months afterwards. This is what capturing the essence of the ‘feeling’ is all about. It’s knowing that, together, we’ve created a wedding ceremony will leave a lasting impression on everyone that shares your day!
Many couples choose to be married at their family church, and rightfully so. But I’ve been surprised to learn that some people are still not aware that you can create a beautiful ceremony experience outside the walls of a church!
It comes down to how you want to feel and what you want to create on the first day of the rest of your lives. To me. It means that at the end of the day, you can look back with contentment and satisfaction, knowing that your wedding day experience will live on in your heart and the hearts of others.
Rev. Mandi Neiser
www.marriedbymandi.ca
905.664.4257
Richness and touches a place in our hearts.
5 chocolate desserts to celebrate your love.
Simple & Exotic Chocolate Drizzled Fruit
• A simple dish that exudes love, intimacy and sophistication.
• Great on the budget and doesn’t require a professional caterer.
• Find the freshest local and exotic fruits that you can at the local market or if off-season try whole canned fruit such as mandarin slices and pear slices.
• Find a very light and rich Swiss milk chocolate, preferably in chips or chunks that are used in baking.
• For sweeter fruits you can try a variety of darker chocolate to drizzle on top.
• Melt and blend the chocolates slowly until they are liquid.
Drizzle over the cut fruit and refrigerate
for a minimum of 2 hours
• For an added touch of glamour get premium white chocolate and melt separately to drizzle on top of the milk chocolate. For best results, do this right on the serving trays
From Tiramisu, an Italian originated dessert made from mascarpone wafers (similar to sponge cake) to smooth yet overwhelming bold and beautiful Truffles, chocolate makes a dessert that is fit for a king and queen!
