Located on the sixth floor of the Hyatt (running alongside their ever-popular, newly renovated cocktail/bar/lounge area), Brahm Mauer served up signature passionfruit martinis as starters for arriving guests (vodka, Hypnotiq, pineapple juice, passionfruit puree, and creme de cassis), while chef Simon delighted palettes starting off with fresh oysters and an array of tartars (venison, salmon, and duck).  Absolute divinity… but only just the start…

Amidst absolutely breathtaking scenery, guests sat down to perfectly placed table settings a la Joe’s Prop House, personalized couture menus by Creative Expressions, and exotic floral arrangements by the inimitable Luluthia.  Right by the fire and surrounded by floating candles (in beautiful assorted vials around the room), attendees were surrounded by both the infamous Nicolina Servello nut bar, alongside the Sophie Bifield Cake Company sweets table (oh my – those homemade marshmallows were to die for)!

First sit-down item on the menu?

Princess scallops (ceviche style), with finger lime caviar and grapefruit/ginger foam, paired with a Cuvee Anabel Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand (above).

Our gorgeous guests get to know each other

Course number two…

Veal sweetbreads caramelized with Sortilege, Pancetta chip, and Truffled celeriac paired with a smooth Serpico Cabernet Sauvignon from Australia.

A daring alternative to the classic steak or chicken bridal options!

All smiles!

The third dish (my absolute favourite… was like nothing else I’ve ever tried)…

Canadian elk medallion with infused labrador tea leaves and cauliflower risotto (continuing with the same wine as presented for the sweetbreads).  Incredibly juicy for the open-minded guest who loves red meat!

La piece de resistance?

Pineapple tataki with spiced caramel, sparkling praline (reminiscent of a higher-end pop rock), paired with a light chocolate & strawberry mousse, and Tawny 20 years Porto!

After achieving that perfectly full feeling, guests helped themselves to the nut and desert bar by filling up take-home bags.  Luxe goody bags and bouquet arrangements topped the night off with a super special keepsake!

Stay tuned… this is only a teaser of what’s to come!

Don’t have your Bridal Boudoir Affair 2012 tickets yet?  Buy them online here before they sell out completely!

xox

Therese Virserius (and her NYC based firm) is a woman who brings these locales to life.

With a background in both interior design and Mandarin (yes, you heard right – Therese studied in both Sweden and Bejing), she plays up contrasting textures and blends them seamlessly into a unisex vision of colour palettes.  Ever the artist, she has shown her paintings in galleries in asia while developing collections of her own signature furniture line (sold exclusively through hand-picked stores).

Not impressed yet?

 Amongst working on projects for some of the world’s biggest hotel brands (Hilton and Bellagio to name only two), she has just recently given the Montreal Hyatt Regency a fabulous facelift!  Of course you will have to see it to believe it in person March 11th at the Bridal Boudoir Affair 2012 – but if you’ve ever attended the Hyatt at all, you’ll know they don’t disappoint!

Prepare yourself for a commercial space that still captures the essence of hospitality and wonder.  Prepare to be dazzled!

Don’t have your Bridal Boudoir tickets yet?  Buy them online here!

xox

With SO many exhibitors, samples, culinary delights, portfolios, and overall stimulating eye-candy (not to mention the crowds that never fail us in attendance), it’s always good to have a game plan to ensure you leave with all the information you need (and more for variety)!  For those of you currently in the midst of planning your wedding, you know that making lists, checking them twice, and following an itinerary of sorts is vital to getting things done without losing your mind.

So, without further ado, behold our top ten tips to getting the most out of Bridal Boudoir 2012…

1. Get there early – the goodies inside operate on a first come, first serve basis (even though were sure we’ll have enough for everyone) – to make sure you experience it all at its prime (and in abundance), arriving a half hour prior will make sure you’re not at the back of the line!
2. Dress up with your girlfriends and make it a day!  Turn an ordinary Sunday into an excuse to put on your most glamorous, boudoir-inspired look while exploring the exhibitors with your favourite ladies by your side.  Chin chin – you’ll need someone to gush about the signature cocktails and “ohhh” and “ahhh” at the Marchesa gowns walking down the runway!
3. Bring your bridal budget with you.  The best part about talking directly to the people behind each of the companies present at the Boudoir, is that you’ll be able to assess which of their services fit perfectly into your vision (and financial comfort zone).
4. Have a specific theme in mind?  Bring a little scrapbook of inspiration as a visual aid (this will also help exhibitors zero in on specific styles/techniques and effects to compliment your personal tastes)!  Cameras are also always welcomed (and encouraged) to remember things you absolutely adored (that can be later added to your book).
5.     Snack beforehand – no big meals!  Our exhibitors are some of America’s standout chefs, bakers, and cocktail providers – let them spoil you with their creations when you taste them firsthand at the Boudoir!
6. Keep an open mind.  There are SO many incredible ways to personalize a wedding, and no request is too wild, luxurious, or unexpected for Bridal Boudoir Affair!  Let us show you what’s been done in the past so you can create something completely unique for your future!  Our guest speaker Alison McGill of Wedding Bells will entice you with this years leading bridal trends to add to your mix…
7. Ask a LOT of questions!  Our exhibitors are there to make your dreams come true – just ask and you shall receive!
8. Get a good nights sleep the day before – it’s a long day with information overload and you’ll need every bit of energy you can stock up on (especially in those stilettos)!
9. Take a look at Maddy K’s portfolio!  The Bridal Boudoir Affair is not only her creative child, but it is everything that makes up a Maddy K wedding – every one of the exhibitors has been hand picked by Maddy herself through consistent successful collaborations.  Need advice on mixing elements of your style together for a flawless finish?  Ask Maddy!  You have every resource at your fingertips to have a luxurious boutique wedding of your own.
10. Business cards, business cards, business cards!  For you to take, and give your own (followups!).  When you have people calling you instead of you doing all the hunting, it makes things that much easier!

With the luxury of set customizable menus for larger gatherings (and a gorgeous closed off salon to match), it makes for the perfect reception area for the intimate couple – something low key but none the less extravagant (seating up to 80).  The terrace is also available seasonally for private reservation, seating a maximum of 255 of your closest guests.  Using only the freshest ingredients and available produce, menus lend a seasonal taste determined by trends, cravings, and lusts of the moment created by in-house chef Rosario Gurreri.  A major attracting feature for the wine connaisseur is their extensive list featuring both beautifully aged bottles, as well as hard-to-get smooth and rich flavors from the world over.

Prefer a cocktail?  Let their trained bartenders shake, stir, and infuse a perfectly blended signature drink for your sipping pleasure!  A gorgeous way to take care of guests as they arrive in preparation for the courses to follow!

As one of Maddy K’s preferred caterers in town, together they create the most memorable and talked about weddings in town!

To all brides out there, here is a short video teaser shot by Ioan Films of a wedding that was produced by Maddy K and catered by Bice!!!

Fojan & Jon Video

Bice is also known for hosting numerous social events in their gardens, such as Engagement Parties, Bridal Showers, baby showers and even rehearsal dinners! Your guests will surely will be swept away with the beauty of the garden! Below are some photos of the event shot by Badger Photography

Here is another video of a baby sprinkle hosted in the gardens of Bice Restaurant shot by T.[REC] Productions

English Garden Sprinkle

Bridal Boudoir Affair is proud to welcome Bice Catering back to this years event – we can’t wait to show you a taste of their very best!

xox

 Sophie Bifield is the mastermind cake creator behind Sophie Bifield Cake Company.  Tell us a little bit about the journey leading up to some of these incredible cakes (centrepieces really) – how did the team behind the company start and what is the main vision behind your distinguished designs?

The journey leading up to the beginning of the Sophie Bifield Cake Company is really a bit of a lemonade story. I had always been artistic from a very young age, and spent hours upon hours working on all sorts of projects whether it be a painting, an abstract clothing line, theatrical costumes or a sculpture of some sort. I was at home in the art studio and have always been known for my creativity. Once I graduated from high school I struggled to see a future in the arts and so left it all behind for a degree in psychology which later led to a career in advertising. In 2010 I got engaged and a week later got fired from my job in advertising. After a very short ‘what now’ moment, I simultaneously, started to plan my upcoming wedding as well as search for a new job. It was during this time that I discovered cake. Within a few short weeks, I had enrolled in a College of Confectionary Arts in Toronto where I learnt everything I needed to know to embark on my journey as a cake designer. Finding cake was an ‘ah ha’ moment in my life, I was finally able to see a future in the arts.

When creating a wedding cake alongside a bride with a vision, what elements of the cake-making process do you prioritize?

My job as a designer is to take my clients vision and turn it into cake. I work as a creative guide, I take what’s important to my clients and incorporate it into a cake that works with their overall vision and decor. I always try to design a cake that suits an event, a six foot, bold cake rarely suits an intimate gathering of 20 people the same way a 2 tier, simple, design rarely fits an elaborately detailed Indian wedding with over 300 guests and no other dessert options. When guests walk into a venue, the cake should be the first thing they notice – it is the centrepiece of an event so it should stand up to the venue and to the decor and not disappear in the shadows. That being said, the cake should not be so overpowering that it takes away from the couple. When the couple walk in, the cake should no longer stand out. It’s about finding a balance.

What is the most extravagant request you’ve ever received for a cake?  Any stories that stand out to you and hold a place in the companies history?  Any experience with celebrities or public figures?

The most extravagant request was for a life size baby elephant for an Indian wedding. Being in my first month of business, we didn’t have the resources to be able to pull it off and had to unfortunately decline. If given the opportunity again, we would certainly accept the challenge. The most bizarre request that we accepted was a cake of Gene Simmons tongue – it wasn’t the prettiest of cakes we’ve ever created, but it was very well received by the client which is what matters. We have yet to design a cake specifically for a celebrity or public figure, but our cakes have been in the presence of many Canadian Politicians, as well as actors Richard Gelinas, Steve Arnold, Dustin Hoffman and singer and choreographer Blake McGrath.

If a bride is looking to have one of your one-of-a-kind creations as a part of her wedding, what steps does she need to follow (how long in advance to book it, is there a deposit required, what tips and tricks can you recommend for a bride on a budget, etc…)?

Couples can contact us directly through our website. We will then set up a complimentary tasting and consultation to taste some flavours and talk about the couples vision and any design ideas. Each couple will then receive a quote and be required to put down a 30% deposit to secure their date and start the design process. Once the deposit has been received, the couple will receive a personalised set of sketches. As all designs are custom, we encourage the couple to give us feedback on the designs so that they can be tweaked or redesigned if need be. We want all of our couples to love their cake as much as we enjoy making it.

If you could create the cake of your dreams, what would it’s detailed description be?

I had the opportunity to create the cake of my dreams for my own wedding back in September 2011 and it was probably one of the most difficult cakes I have ever had to design. Most of the time when I design a cake, I have limitations which guide my creative process. Usually a couple will give me colours, a theme, a vision, likes, dislikes, a budget or something to work with. For my own wedding, I had very few guidelines, a head full of ideas and 75 guests with very high expectations. I ended up doing what I do best and designing a cake that suited the affair. I could have had a 9 foot cake that showcased a plethora of skills, but instead I opted for a 4-tier cake adorned with flowers and butterflies and two smaller cakes styled to match. They fitted perfectly in our intimate garden setting.

If I am correct, this will be your first year as a part of the Bridal Boudoir Affair show!  What attracted you to showcasing your craft with us, and what do you hope to bring home from it?

Yes, this will be our first year as part of the Bridal Boudoir Affair Show. We’ve been thinking about offering our services to Montreal couples for a while now, but were waiting for the right time and place to introduce ourselves. When we found out about the Bridal Boudoir Affair Show we knew we wanted to be part of it because we felt it was a show that truly complimented our style and the services we provide. We hope to bring something new to the Montreal wedding industry, to be welcomed into your community and to hopefully work with some of your vendors to create spectacular weddings for Montreal couples.

More and more brides are realizing that you don’t necessarily need to go with a traditional cake for weddings anymore (or bridal showers, baby showers, etc…).  What are some of your most popular alternatives?

We’re still seeing a lot of traditional cakes, but they’re becoming much more personal. Couples are starting to realise that they aren’t limited by traditional sugar decorations and are requesting designs that incorporate special details. It’s not uncommon that we get asked to add elements of the wedding, incorporate a theme, interpret the couples story or add a design or sonnet that means something to the couple. Cakes are also much more stylised than they once were, couples are now opting for a cake that is designed to eliminate the need for a traditional cake topper.  We’re also seeing more and more couples opt for smaller ‘cutting’ cakes with other dessert options. Often cutting cakes are placed on a themed or styled dessert table which often includes popular dessert items like cake truffles, macaroons, cookies and cupcakes.

What about international clients who must have a slice of your heaven?  Can anything be arranged to get your flavours across continents?

Absolutely, international orders are assessed on an individual basis, but we have delivered a cake to the UK and will be delivering one to China in March.

You are quite active online!  How can fans and interested clients interact with you through the comfort of social media?

We can be found on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/ottawacake or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ottawacake

]]> http://bridalboudoiraffair.com/uncategorized/bridal-boudoir-affair-exhibitor-sophie-bifield-cake-company/feed/ 1 http://bridalboudoiraffair.com/uncategorized/bridal-boudoir-2012-exhibitor-annie-young-cosmetics-avanti-spa/ http://bridalboudoiraffair.com/uncategorized/bridal-boudoir-2012-exhibitor-annie-young-cosmetics-avanti-spa/#comments Thu, 02 Feb 2012 20:28:54 +0000 Robyn http://bridalboudoiraffair.com/?p=2587  Annie Young Cosmetics and Avanti Spa & Coiffure are no strangers to Montreal’s wedding industry.  In fact, they have been leaders in allowing women from all walks of life extraordinary luxury when it comes to primping and putting their best face forward (and not only on their special day).  We are proud to be welcoming them back to the Bridal Boudoir Affair 2012 arena with full glamour in tow!

Having worked with them for many different platforms in and around the Boudoir (they provided the hair and makeup for the last Bridal Boudoir Affair’s fashion show), not only does the spa’s surroundings themselves lend an air of relaxation, professionalism, and efficiency, but the people working within will make you feel like both a princess as well as an old friend.

Mother and daughter team Annie and Sharleen Young bring their customized cosmetics line to the mix (alongside their warm smiles and personalities), while a wide range of specialists tackle everything from nails, hair, colour, massage, facials, and hair removal services (to name but a few)!  It truly is a one-stop shop for beauty lovers and brides-to-be (why not take the extra step and host a bachelorette day with your best bridal party gal pals?).

Check out the hair and makeup (and nails) all done for my photoshoot in collaboration with Queue de Cheval and Maddy K – perfection from every angle (I was just the lucky subject) at Avanti!

The Avanti and Annie Young professionals will be at the Bridal Boudoir to answer any and all questions you may have – time to explore your options and set your beauty game plan!

Want to see more pictures of the spa?  Check out our previous post on Avanti and Annie Young.

xox

There are only 39 days remaining until the official 2012 Bridal Boudoir Affair March 11th held at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Montreal, and we are committed to getting you as excited about it as we are!  Last week we blogged our beautiful boudoir shoot with Anne, this week our pictures will be revealing both the exceptional venue space that is the Hyatt Regency as well as the demure look of our model Roxanne (from Dulcedo Modelling Agency).

This gorgeous photo shoot was captured by the always talented and fabulous duo team; Ara and Mgo from Badger Photography. Styled by Tania Marie Semper founder of eFashionista. The hair and makeup were done by Charlotte & Nisha - topped off with outstanding headpieces efashionista by Nicole & Co.!  Flowers by Luluthia Floral Atelier (who will also be at the boudoir this year, and who are working on something spectacular – so make sure you don’t miss it!) Jewelry by Micalla and Lingerie was provided by the one and only Montreal-based Blush, shoes by Aldo, and the gorgeous dresses by Galleria Della Sposa (who will be showcasing their gorgeous wedding gowns at the Bridal Boudoir Affair fashion show)!
Isn’t the combination just divine?

 Tying into the photo shoot featured; the official photographers of this years bridal boudoir is Badger photography.  You can see more photos from this shoot on our Facebook Fanpage.

Are you ready for the premiere of our Belle Epoque video brought to us by eFashionista?

Enjoy the eye candy ladies!

Bridal Boudoir 2012 from eFashionista on Vimeo.

xox

Afsaneh & Shant – Next-Day-Edit by Marrone from Marrone Video on Vimeo.

If you’ve ever been to the Bridal Boudoir of past years, you know that Marrone video is a definite stop in the lineup when considering another form of visual media (of the moving sort).  Personalized videos to bring tears and smiles to all who who watch them – suiting soundtracks and all.  Why not indulge in a Blu-ray or high definition DVD of your special day?  Trusting the genius of Marrone’s director and producer Riccardo is one amongst the many guarantees you can make at the Bridal Boudoir when it comes to wedding perfection.  With his team of six, your favourite memories come alive before your eyes for your big day, save the date previews, engagement shoots, christenings and baby/bridal showers (whatever you choose to celebrate)!

It’s no mystery why Bridal Boudoir and Maddy K always collaborate with Marrone year after year to capture the highlights of the day (and various bridal events)… they are quite simply the best (see for yourself with a few of our favourite videos they’ve done)!

Americano {sonia+donato} by Marrone Video from Marrone Video on Vimeo.

A Boy’s Dream – Karishma & Amit’s Indian Wedding in Hawaii (Same-Day-Edit) from Marrone Video on Vimeo.

Want to see more?  Check out their Vimeo collection, and like them on facebook!

Be sure to order your tickets today to stop by their booth and inquire more on the filming process and meet the team March 11th, 2012 at the Hyatt Regency Montreal!

xox

We are welcoming you back once again this year to the Bridal Boudoir Affair 2012 (as our one and only star guest speaker)!  What topics will you be covering this year, and what can brides expect to learn from your presentation?

 I’m going to be talking about the 12 hottest bridal trends of 2012 as chosen by the editors of Weddingbells; will also chat about how brides can have their wedding featured by Weddingbells, both in print and online.

Tell us a bit about your journey in the wedding industry leading up to being editor in chief of Weddingbells Magazine… were you always interested in the sometimes fairytale notion of brides and their special day?

I am a journalist, and before coming to Weddingbells actually had no experience in the wedding industry—how much I have learned in the last 10 years! Prior to my time at Weddingbells I actually worked at Salon Magazine, a publication for the professional beauty industry. What I love about my job at Weddingbells is that at encompasses so much, touching on so many subject areas from fashion, to beauty, to travel, home and of course all the pretty planning details that go into a wedding celebration. No two days are ever alike and I’m always pushed creatively and professionally.

 What initially attracted you to get involved with Maddy K’s Bridal Boudoir Affair?

This will actually be my first Bridal Boudoir event! I was asked by Maddy to be a guest two years ago, but due to personal circumstances was unable to attend. I am looking forward to the event and connecting with Montreal-area brides.

What is your most valuable tip for brides on a budget (who don’t want to compromise their visions)?

Stress seems to be part of the game when planning a wedding.  How important is a wedding planner for the busy-city bride?

I think a wedding planner is an amazing thing for all brides because it helps you stay on track and keep organized. There are many options available when it comes to hiring a planner. If your budget affords you a planner for your entire wedding celebration, then I strongly recommend it! If you can’t hire a planner for your whole wedding event, look at bringing him/her on board for a limited time or event hire a day-of co-ordinator.

 How can brides-to-be with questions on their mind get in touch with you via social media?

Every year in preparation (and excitement for the Bridal Boudoir Affair), we arrange a little teaser – a taste if you will, of the mood and ambiance to-be, by whipping up a dreamy photo shoot (and sometimes more than one!) for your viewing pleasure.  This year, of course, was no exception.  Amidst the hustle and bustle of planning everything in and around the Boudoir, these photos are a reminder to slow down (listen up brides), and really savour the moment you’re in.  Our beautiful model Anne couldn’t have been a better choice, a real natural at narrowing in on effortless chic with a couture edge.  There are so many ways to make a wedding unique and beautiful in sometimes unconventional ways – through sophisticated head pieces, ballet slippers, lace jewellery, and a mix of soft eyes and punchy red lips – here’s hoping you’ll get inspired!

In love with the dresses she’s wearing?  Check out Atelier Perla on Crescent street here in Montreal to see more gorgeous designs (carrying lines such as Monique L’Huillier, Alvina Valenta, Amsale, Christos, Jim Hjelm, Judd Waddell, Kenneth Pool, and Lazard).

 Of course if you are as zero’d in on the headpieces as I am, you’ll want to browse the Malis-Henderson page (everything from veils, hair pins, and jewelry to make your jaw drop).  The jewels we used in this shoot were from Montreal designer Aria – gorgeous aren’t they?

 Makeup is such an important part of your wedding day (you want to feel your absolute best when walking down that aisle), and sometimes the effortless look takes a trained professional.  For this shoot we collaborated with Kat and Lea (makeup artist team) for soft but stunning results.  Hair was mastered by Gassia.  Which look of the two would you go with?