Destination Wedding JigSaw Puzzle Game

I thought for the holidays we'd do something fun and interactive on the blog. I've created a JigSaw puzzle of one of my favourite Canadian destination wedding spots. Can you guess what popular wedding spot it is?

 Enjoy the JigSaw Puzzle everyone. Let me know what you think of it. Should this become a regular feature of the blog?

Are You Planning To Propose Marriage?

Engagement Photo by ©Jenny Rollo

Traditionally December has been a time when people celebrate holidays and everything else that is good in their lives. So what better time of year then to surprise your beloved with a marriage proposal? Between the December holidays and Valentines Day is traditionally the busiest time of year for proposing marriage. If you're thinking of taking this step, here are some tips to help get you started.

1. Don't get overwhelmed by focusing on making this the most romantic, most special, life altering moment of your soon fiance's life. If you set an impossible goal it leaves to much room for things to go wrong. Chances are she'll be happy no matter what.

2. Talk about marriage before you propose so you know she's open to the idea. Surprises are great; but for example, if you've only known her a month there is a good chance she'll think you're moving to fast.

3. If you plan to ask her to sign a prenuptial agreement find out if she's willing to sign one before you propose. Don't waste a proposal on someone who doesn't want to protect you or herself in the case things go wrong. There is nothing worse then waiting until it's to late to find out she won't sign. It is also less threatening to discuss it before the engagement.

4. Have a plan for how you will propose. It doesn't have to be a fancy plan; but decide where you will do it, what you will say, etc.

5. If you plan to buy a ring take a friend or relative along who knows her really well. They can help you choose something she would like.

6. Don't play around with guessing her ring size or measuring her finger when she's asleep. Borrow a ring you know fits; but she never wears and bring it with you to the store. It won't take long for them to determine the size. You can return it immediately without her noticing.

7. If the thought of planning a proposal makes you anxious hire a professional. Some wedding planners also offer proposal planning. Another benefit to this is that when the time comes to plan the wedding you already know if you "click" with that wedding planner or if you should keep looking.

8. I know this sounds old fashioned; but out of respect for the parents consider asking the fathers permission. If you are really modern you might want to ask permission from both parents.

9. If romance isn't your thing consider proposing on a weekend getaway or vacation. Sometimes a change of scenery is all that is needed to make something feel special and/or romantic.

10. However you choose to propose; have fun with it and consider her personality. This shouldn't be a scary time. This is a happy time so focus on the happiness.

The Cutest Muppet Wedding Proposal

As an event planner who also plans marriage proposals I wish I could take credit for this amazingly touching Muppet inspired wedding proposal; but it was created by photographer Sid Ceaser (that's his real name) for his now fiance, Sara. I love this kind of creativity.

On December 12, 2010 Sara was sitting in a movie theater in New Hampshire. After watching two trailers this touching video marriage proposal came on the screen. As the Muppet Sid pulled out the ring to propose to Muppet Sara the real Sid did the same. Both Muppet and real Sara said yes.

Our New Web site

We've been going through a complete re-branding as you can see by the changes in how the blog looks.

The new re-branded web site is up. Please take a look. The new web site.

We've also hosting a Bridaluxe store where you can get everything from free wedding web sites, invitations, bling, etc. Pretty much anything you need to purchase to make your wedding a success you can find in this online marketplace. Bridaluxe hosts American companies so shipping might be an issue with some products. Companies like MyUs.com can help you with that

Feel free to visit the Bridaluxe store.

PAY NO HST

HST is going to be painful for couples planning their weddings. That's why for the rest of the 2010 wedding season Mindless Sophistication will be covering the HST on all our non-travel related services. We can't control what other vendors do; but we wanted to make things a tiny bit easier on our wonderful couples.

This offer is valid on all Canadian based wedding/event planning, hourly consulting, day of coordination and our exclusive Wedding Concierge service.

You relax and let us worry about the tax man.

Angus Glen Bridal Show

I just thought I would share a couple of pictures of the Mindless Sophistication table at this weekends bridal show that was held at the Angus Glen Golf Club in Markham, Ontario. The venue was great. I met lot's of amazing brides and vendors. I wish I had time to take photo's during the show but; that shows you what a great event it was.

The booth was designed by the talented Carol Rame. She absolutely captured the essence of what Mindless Sophistication stands for. The materials used were all top quality. The design was elegant. She was able to blend my functional items; such as computer and banners with a design that was mindlessly sophisticated.

We accepted raffle entries for a draw to take place later this week. The prize is a beautiful Michael Kors handbag that is filled with:

- Godiva dark chocolate pearls
- A Complimentary Day of Coordination from Mindless Sophistication
- A gift certificate for a complimentary massage & personal training sessionc at the exclusive Shape Health & Wellness in Toronto
-Mikasa wine bottle stopper
- Swaravski crystal heart pendant necklace

Oh Sweet Swag Bag

Tomorrow night marks the opening of the 2010 Angus Glen Bridal Show. Mindless Sophistication will be there with bells on. http://www.angusglen.com/

As many of you know raffles are a common thing found at bridal shows and Mindless Sophistication is no different. We will be offering a swag bag of goodies valued at $1800. This swag bag almost didn't happen because my intention all along was to donate a Stuart Weitzman handbag in Mindless Sophistication blue that came from my very own collection. Don't worry; I have never used this bag and don't anticipate ever using it. It's a hard colour to match up. Why was this a problem do you ask? Well you see gentle reader; I'm a designer handbag-a-holic.

I admit it. I have a handbag problem. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE designer handbags. When my boyfriend does something wrong I rank it in handbags; "Oh, honey this is a Chanel level offense" or "Oh no, you've really done it this time buster. Not even a Hermes Birkin can get you out of this mess." You get the point.

Anyway, my handbag disease got the best of me. Although I will never wear this bag I just couldn't go through with giving it away. I almost ditched the swag bag idea. I tried to be strong; but I just couldn't do it.

I started to think about what designer handbag could I use for this swag that I wouldn't want to keep. It had to be something from a design house I would NEVER want to own. Something cheap enough that I would NEVER want to be have one. I won't mention the design house I came up with because many, MANY people love their products. I do not wish to offend those people. Well the brand I came up with wasn't an option either. Why on earth would I give away a bag that I myself wouldn't own. Well the answer is that I wouldn't. So you won't be seeing that brand this weekend at our booth.

Thankfully tonight the problem was solved. My good friends at Michael Kors have supplied me with a beautiful gold handbag to give away to some very lucky bride. There are rules attached to this give-a-way. Firstly, I'm not allowed to look at this bag more then I absolutely have to. At the moment it's safely hidden in it's dust-cover. No matter how tempted I get to keep this spectacular bag; it MUST be given to the winner of the Mindless Sophistication Swag Bag Raffle being held at Angus Glen Golf Club this weekend.

It's going to be hard; but I can do it. I envy the winner of this bag. It's so lovely. The winner of this raffle will not only receive my envy and a gorgous Michael Kors hand bag; but they will also recieve:

1 Tin of Godiva dark chocolate pearls
1 One free day of coordination compliments of Mindless Sophistication
1 Mikasa wine bottle stopper
1 Swaravski crystal heart pendant necklace
1 Free massage compliments of Shape Health and Wellness
1 Free personal training session compliments of Shape Health and Wellness again.

Combine those items with the Michael Kors handbag and that's some great swag. I invite everyone to come to the Angus Glen Bridal Show this February 19th and 20th in Markham, Ontario. Please stop by the Mindless Sophistication booth. We're booth #38. As an added bonus we will be printing out personal contact information labels for anyone wishing not to strain their hands as they enter all the fabulous raffles.

http://www.mindlessSophistication.com

Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum 12th Annual Classic City Bridal Show

This morning while surfing the web I came across a media release for a bridal show being held in Auburn, Indiana today. What makes this bridal show stand out to a wedding planner in Canada is that it's being held at the Auburn, Cord, Duesenberg Museum. Growing up I literally spent every Labor Day Weekend at that museum so it really holds a special place in my heart. I'm very lucky I didn't come across this press release sooner or I'd be in my car headed to Indiana. I can't make it this year; but if you happen to be in the area please stop by. Admission is only $5. It really would be a lovely place to host a wedding. The stair case that sweeps down into the grand hall would make the perfect entrance for any bridal party. I've included the media release below.

Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum 12th Annual Classic City Bridal Show

AUBURN CORD DUESENBERG AUTOMOBILE MUSEUM

NEWS RELEASE - 01/12/10

For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Kendra Klink, Operations Director

January - 2010
260-925-1444 / kendrak@automobilemuseum.org

Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum hosts 12th Annual Classic City
Bridal Show January 31, 2010

(AUBURN) - The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum's Classic City
Bridal Show is almost here. The bridal show attracts couples from the
tri-state area who are planning their dream weddings.

The Twelfth Annual Classic City Bridal Show will showcase products and
services ranging from lodging and travel, party planning and suppliers,
photographers, videographers, cake suppliers, caterers, entertainment hosts,
jewelers, clothiers, florists and decorating services, financial services
and other wedding-related products and services. The bridal show will be
held at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum on Sunday, January 31,
from noon until 5 p.m.

Admission to the show is $5 per person, which includes admission to the
museum's galleries. The annual bridal show will feature a professionally
produced runway fashion show at 1 p.m. and again at 3 p.m. in the Main
Showroom. Jeannette from WAJI Majic 95.1 FM's "Majic in the Morning" show
from will emcee the fashion shows. The fashion shows will include dress and
tuxedo shops, and floral shops.

Those attending the Classic City Bridal Show may also check out the Auburn
Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum as a possible venue to host their upcoming
weddings, receptions or rehearsal dinners. The museum's banquet and
conference center accommodates events up to 500. The museum hosts many
affordable and memorable weddings and receptions each year. A museum staff
member will be on hand during the bridal show to answer questions, give
additional information, and check date availability for those interested.

WAJI Majic 95.1 FM is a sponsor for this year's Classic City Bridal Show.

Tickets for the Classic City Bridal Show may be purchased the day of the
show. Those planning to attend may also go online to
www.automobilemuseum.org to print out a
Classic City Bridal Show flyer that is good for four free admissions. Free
passes are available at participating vendors.

Museum Corporate Member Sponsors include: Auburn Cord Duesenberg Festival,
Inc.; Auburn Inn; Betz Senior Living Campus; Brown & Brown Insurance Agency,
Inc.; Campbell & Fetter Bank; Community State Bank; DeKalb Financial Credit
Union; Do it Best Corp.; Douglas Morrow O.D.; Eaton Corporation; Gary A.
Scheumann, D.D.S. P.C.; Gene Davenport Investments, LLC; Goeglein's
Catering; Hampton Industrial Services, Inc.; Icon International; Joyce
Hefty, State Farm Insurance; MacAllister Machinery Co. Inc.; Mefford, Weber
and Blythe, PC; National City Bank Fort Wayne; Obsidian Enterprises;
Petroleum Traders Corporation; Steel Dynamics, Inc.; Therma-Tru Corp.; The
Hicksville Bank; Valenti Classics; and Wells Fargo. We appreciate all that
our sponsors support.

The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum - where the world's finest cars
of yesterday live today! Over 120 classic, antique, vintage and special
interest cars are displayed with other automotive related exhibits on three
floors. The museum is located in the original 1930s national headquarters of
the legendary Auburn Automobile Company and is a National Historic Landmark.
Admission is charged, with group and family rates available. The museum is
open daily from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. year round. In 2010, plan a visit and bring
your family to the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum, a place where
automotive history comes to life! automobilemuseum.org

Kendra Klink
Operations Director
Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum

NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK
Accredited by the American Association of Museums
1600 South Wayne Street
P.O. Box 271
Auburn, Indiana 46706
Office: (260) 925-1444 x 32
Fax: (260) 925-6266
kendrak@automobilemuseum.org
www.automobilemuseum.org

15 things to help your out-of-town wedding guests feel welcome

I truly believe that when you invite a guest to a wedding you should be treating them with the same hospitality that you would give them if you had invited them into your own home. With out-of-town guests this concept becomes even more important as you have not only invited them to your wedding; but they were kind enough to travel to a far off location to attend. I've compiled a list of 15 nice gestures that can be made to help your out-of-town guests enjoy their stay more.

1. Get a group rate at a nice hotel. This way they can all be together, mingle, and when you visit them they are all in one location.

2. Host a special out-of-town guests dinner to welcome them to your city/town.

3. Book a hospitality suite in the hotel the majority of guests are staying at. Fill it with snacks, drinks, magazines, newspapers, games for the kids, etc.

4. Hire a shuttle bus to take them to and from the wedding.

5. Offer them the opportunity to take a tour of the place they are visiting.

6. Create a welcome package that includes maps, information on local attractions, restaurant recommendations, and anything else you think they might find useful. Arrange with the hotel to have this package waiting for them in their room when they arrive.

7. Arrange for a gift basket or gift bag to be waiting in their hotel room.

8. Write them each a hand written card before they come to tell them how excited you are they will be traveling to attend your wedding.

9. If possible pay for all airline or hotel bills. Nobody expects this; but it is a very polite thing to do if you can afford it.

10. Purchase carbon credits in the guests name as a thank you for flying in to attend your wedding. This helps the environment and shows the guest how truly welcome they are. Have a card waiting for them in the hotel room saying "In honor of your joining us for our wedding we have off-set your travel by purchasing carbon credits in your name".

11. Host a little mix and mingle cocktail party in the hotel on the night your guests are arriving.

12. Get a hold of some discount coupon books for local attractions, shopping, and restaurants that your guests can use during their stay.

13. If you live in a city that is involved in the CityPass program then purchase them one. This will get them into various museums and attractions free. http://www.citypass.com/

14. Let the concierge at their hotel know the details of your wedding; such as where you are registered, the time-line, and where it is being held. This way if guests have questions the hotel staff is prepared with the answers.

15. if you live in the Greater Toronto Area area hire a Wedding Concierge® by Mindless Sophistication to oversea many of the above mentioned tasks and to field other requests your guests might have during their stay. A Concierge will personally be on call for your guests during their stay. Wedding Concierge® will be expanding to other cities so please be sure to ask if it's arrived in your city yet. http://www.mindlesssophistication.com/

Treat your wedding guests like royalty by hiring a Wedding Concierge®

Mindless Sophistication Wedding & Event Planning is pleased to announce our new premiere service Wedding Concierge®.

Wedding Concierge® is the first full service concierge service in Canada directed towards wedding parties. We created this service because we believe that when a wedding couple invites a guest to their wedding they wish them to be treated with the same hospitality they would receive if they had invited them to their home for a small dinner party.

Wedding Concierge® will mainly be used by couples to aid in making their out-of-town guests visit more comfortable; but concierges can also attend the wedding to assist all guests. A typical Wedding Concierge® could make hotel reservations, dinner reservations, book tours, arrange for transportation, supply information on major attractions around the city. We like to think of our concierges as wish-makers. As long as a request is legal our concierges will do their best to make it happen.

Wedding Concierge® can be booked either on a daily basis or as a complete package leading up to the wedding. Wedding Concierge® has been legally trademarked as a service with the federal government as a service to assure exclusivity for our clients. Other trademarks have been applied for and are pending internationally.

If you're interested in pampering your guests consider hiring one of our professionally trained concierges. This new service won't be limited to only the Toronto area. We're in the midst of hiring and training concierges in other select locations. Feel free to contact me to find out if Wedding Concierge® is available in your city yet.

For more information visit http://www.mindlesssophistication.com/

Engagement Season

Well engagement season is here and suddenly I am like a little kid on Xmas Eve.

I know that the all the statisticians of this industry say that 70% of couples who get engaged do it between American Thanksgiving and Valentines day with the bulk of those couples saying "OMG, YES YES, I LOVE YOU YES" during those crucial two days that surround Xmas. So now it's a bit of a waiting game for me. Which couples will want to hire me as their wedding planner? What will those couples be like? What new and creative themes suit their personalities? For the destination couples; what countries will their weddings take place in? It's all so exciting.

I know what some of you are thinking. Well the 2010 forecasts have already been released. We know the colours that will be popular, we know strapless is out. (thank you Ivanka and Vera Wang) , we know vintage is classic. Better industry experts then myself have already gone public with these wise predictions. I'm not excited to find out about the trends of 2010. It takes up to a year and a half to plan most weddings so my excitement is all about 2011.

I'm not even all that concerned with trends. I like to approach each bride from a unique perspective. When I sit down at that initial first meeting I want to know about them. I want to know if they dreamt of their wedding day as a child. The 6 year old imagining their wedding certainly was not thinking about what would be trendy in 2010. They were thinking about what gives them that dreamy happy feeling. Then I want to know about the woman or man they are today. Who is this grown up version. Who is this person they are marrying? Of course some of the things they like right now, in the moment will be influenced by the trends; but what can I do to create a truly unique wedding experience that will reverberate in the minds of this couple for the rest of their lives?

These new brides and grooms will be a huge part of my life for the next year or so. I don't know who they are yet. I'm hoping they will be kindred spirits. I'm hoping they will feel the same about me. It's an exciting time. Right now it's quiet. People are still on vacations. They are still basking in the excitement of having just gotten engaged. I've definitely noticed an increase of hits onto my web site. Right now people are just looking and taking it all in. If you are one of the people who has clicked my site lately; I apologise that my current revamp isn't complete. It's not full of the many pretty pictures sitting in my web guys hard-drive. It will hopefully be done before the new year. Let's face it. I'm a wedding planner; not a web guy. All the new packages are up though; so take a look. Thank you web guy for making that happen.

To all the new brides and grooms I say take your time. Enjoy the newly engaged feeling. Look at all the wedding web sites out there. Buy some magazines, visit some bridal shows, and gab with your friends. Imagine all the possibilities. Then when you're ready to start putting it all together into one solid plan I'll be here waiting. I hope you choose me to help you make this all happen for you. I absolutely can't wait to meet all you new brides and grooms. You all have my heartfelt congratulations. 2010 is going to be great. Don't forget to call if you have any questions.