From its oceanfront scenery and memorable mountain views, to the culture-rich downtown, Nanaimo has something for everyone.

The city of Nanaimo has one of the longest shorelines in Canada, nestled alongside a forested mountain backdrop. One of the perks about Nanaimo is the ability to go from the centre of the city to the wilderness in just a  few moments. This makes for a perfect canvas for wedding photographers in Nanaimo, BC.

As the second largest city on Vancouver Island, you’d think Nanaimo is a bustling tourist destination, whereas the truth is that it is actually a hidden gem, compared to the better known Victoria, Vancouver, and Whistler.

Located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, 113 km north of Victoria, and 55 km across the Strait of Georgia from Vancouver, Nanaimo projects out into the strait, with waterfront of three sides. Ferries link the city to the Vancouver metro area and the smaller islands that surround it.

There is loads to do in the busy city. Tourists and those who love there love the culture, recreation, and fun of the town. The ocean is a spectacular view, and there are plenty of tidal pool, undersea grotto, the city harbour, and scenic islands. There are also 588 hectares of parks, many of which are on the waterfront, including Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park. This protected greenspace is accessible by passenger ferry, with over 15 km of  trails that through shady forests, past First Nations historic sites, and around a lake and bays. Some are also specifically designed for cyclists.

There is also a 4-kilometre (2.5 mile) Harbourfront Walkway, which is often touted as one of the city’s main attractions, bungee jumping at Wild Play Element Parks, a 7,500 square foot indoor rock climbing gym, an 8,000 square foot indoor playground, and much more. Truly something for you, your guests, and everyone and everything in between.

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Because of the gorgeous weather, weddings in Nanaimo, BC are a great option. It is one of the mildest climate regions in the nation, and coldest between November and February, typically which reach daytime high temperatures in the 6 to 9 degrees Celsius range, and lows of about 0 to 2 degrees Celsius. Between June and September, the average daytime highs are in the mid-20s Celsius, and lows of about 10 degrees. You’ll want to note that the rainy season is in November and December, and reaches its low point in July and August. There is generally a few snowfalls in December and January.

If you are booking accommodations, consider the scenic Kiwi Cove Lodge, a spacious 12-room location that accommodates everyone in your party. They offer a full, from-scratch breakfast with baked goods, homemade yogurt and kiwi preserves, fresh fruits and vegetables from the garden, and evening meals that can be arranged in advance., as well as heartier fare. Evening meals are also a delight for the group and can be arranged in advance. A processional can be in vineyard and there can be an outdoor ceremony for up to 50 people. They provide everything you need to make it a moment you’ll never forget.

We also love the Grand Hotel Nanaimo, a premier accommodation for any event. It provides couples and their parties attentive service, expert support and memorable cuisine on the doorstep of a gorgeous rock garden oasis.

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The combination of timeless European décor within a distinctly West Coast environment offers a top destination for wedding ceremonies,  receptions, catering and other services. They hand guide you with a coordinator, high end, reputable vendors, and everything you need to support you during the rehearsal and on your big day.

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The city is rich in history. Originally, North Pender and South Pender were a single island connected by an isthmus, but a canal was created in the early 1900s for the ferry and boats to have a quicker, safer passage between the islands.

Pender Islands takes in the sub-Mediterranean climate (sometimes called the Hawaii of Canada”), featuring vast amounts of rolling hills, plenty of forestry, open farmland, and several lakes and small mountains. It is also home to many beaches, having the most public beach access of any of the Gulf Islands.

It is a popular tourist destination, with many outdoor activities to enjoy, such as cycling, fishing, hiking, boating, sailing, scuba diving, golfing, and frisbee golf. Culture is rich here, filled with art galleries, eclectic and local cuisine, and plenty of shopping and events.

The oceanside  opportunities on Pender Island are one of the island’s most exciting attractions. There are plenty of opportunities for sightseeing adventures, eco-tours, harbour tours, scuba diving and other adventures by boat, and several marinasoffer cruising and sailing opportunities.

A popular choice is Otter Bay Marina (www.otterbaymarina.ca) , offering a variety of services and activities, easy access for a stop on your trip or a place to lodge for the day.

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Summer is generally a busy time of year here on the island, though in the spring and fall are excellent choices for celebrations, as there are fewer tourists and the weather is mild. It also provides great options for wedding photographers in Pender Island, with spring blooms and fall foliage.

There are also plenty of gorgeous places to stay while visiting Pender Island. Pender Island House (www.penderislandhouse.com) is a local favorite; it sits on half an acre of quit forest, with a gorgeous view of Plumper Sound, Saturna Island, the American San Juan islands, and the Washington coastal mountains. The recently renovated house has two bedrooms, as well as a large loft bedroom and sleeps six comfortably. There is a hot tub, a large wood burning fireplace in an open area plan, TV, DVD player, high speed Internet, BBQ, and fully-equipped kitchen complete with dishwasher and microwave.

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Poets Cove Resort (www.poetscove.com) is snuggled away in Bedwell Harbour amidst incredible natural beauty, this gorgeous resort is home to an oceanview accommodation, bistro, fine dining, elegant spa, and 110 slip marina. There are plenty of activities, it is close to amenities, and is beautiful, as well. They also offer packages for weddings for your ceremony, reception, elopement or special event. Big or small, they have much to offer you by ways of a glorious venue, wedding catering, wedding supplies, wedding planning.

Cozily situated along the east side of Vancouver Island, Saltspring Island is about halfway between Nanaimo and Victoria, with the city of Vancouver to the north.

Arbutus Photography offers a wide range of Wedding Photography on Saltspring Island. We now travel to Salt Spring Island with no travel costs.  We have family that just bought a beautiful house on Saltspring, and would be more then happy to show you around the Island, and help you on your wedding day.

With a population of over ten thousand, along with plenty of sheep, deer, and sometimes bears, the atmosphere is warm and comforting, without the bustle of the busy cities that are close by. Saltspring Island is a welcoming location for your ceremony, and any wedding photographer in Saltspring Island would love to be a part of your big day.

The population is brimming with the arts, and features a new community hall, Art Spring, that was fundraised by the local community. There is regular live music passing through, and the residents can easily make recommendations for any wedding.

The highlights of the island include the community music events, as well as the available hiking and mountain biking. There are plenty of hiking trails on Salt Spring Island, the most popular are found in Mount Maxwell Park, on Bruce Peak, nearby Mount Tuam, on Mount Erskine, in Peter Arnell Park, and Bryant Hills Park.

There is also a cluster of various trails at Ruckle Park down in the southeast corner of Salt Spring Island. All of these trails are generally flat, without much change in elevation, making them ideal for biking, as well. Just watch the deer on the road!

You may also want to check out Mt. Maxwell, though its official name is Baynes Peak, and also happens to be the second highest point on Salt Spring Island. It is about 595 metres, or 1950 feet, above sea level, with a near vertical drop on one side. You can drive up to the top of Mt. Maxwell, or park at the bottom and work your way up. Both make for spectacular photograph opportunities!

Another gorgeous view is the top of Bruce Peak, those it is interspersed with communications towers. Mt. Baker, which is about 3,050 metres or 10,000 feet,  is in the east, and Mt. Rainier, which is about 4392 metres or 14,410 feet, is in the opposite southeast direction. There are many great look outs to choose from; those are just a few of our favorite.

When you visit Saltspring Island, there are also many great places to stay. These are some of our favorites:

Cusheon Lake Resort

This lakeside resort is open year-round, featuring cozy cedar cabins right on the shore of Cusheon Lake. Activities include boating, fishing, swimming, and a short ten minute to great hiking trails. The cottages and chalets are one and two bedroom, with fully-equipped kitchens, fireplaces, and more.

171 Natalie Lane
250-537-9629
www.cusheonlake.com

About Thyme Cottage

Located along five acres overlooking the ocean, this secluded cottage let’s you relax, soak in the hot tub, hike in the very closeby network of hiking trails, or dive in the ocean 500 meters away.

144 Sir Echos Way
250-537-1900
info@aboutthymecottage.com

Angel Cottage

A self-contained cottage on three private acres, Angel Cottage is a private bed and breakfast that is close to beaches and hiking, in a calm setting, perfect for a quiet get-away.

250-537-8350
www.angelcottage.ca

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Salt Spring Getaway – Hilltop Retreat

This west coast home features large picture windows and a sky light, surrounded by natural landscape and gardens on lovely acreage. The open-concept design is luxurious for a couple, and able to sleep up to six.

www.saltspringgetaway.com
250-537-7022.

Salt Springs Spa Resort

Just steps from the ocean on the north east coast near Fernwood, the Salt Springs Spa Resort is home to ayurvedic therapies, super-sized hydro-jet tubs in private chalets, a serene atmosphere and pristine beauty of this natural setting ensures peace and tranquility.

www.saltspringspa.com
1-800-665-0039

Wetherly Inn & Spa

Wetherly Inn & Spa is set in 30 acres of private grounds, featuring self-contained cottages or beautifully appointed rooms in the house with en-suite soaker tubs, separate glass showers, fireplaces and private balconies. The guest lounge is a favorite, and the whole inn features wireless internet access throughout. With its beautiful gardens, ponds, waterfalls, heated swimming pool, hot tub and fully-equipped spa with registered therapists on call, it is the ultimate in luxury and relaxation.

250-653-4260
www.wetherlyinn.com

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Suncrest Cottage and Bed and Breakfast

Located on 28 secluded acres with views overlooking Trincomali Channel, Galiano Island & the Coast Mountains. This very quiet country estate offers great accommodation in two private suites, and includes organic produce and flowers from local sources. They are also members of the Salt Spring Island Conservancy and are involved in the Greening of Salt Spring accommodations program.

250-537-5124
140 Head St.
www.saltspringcottage.com

Arbutus Wedding Photographers Saltspring Island

Office (250 412-2321)

Cell Direct      (818 523-3898)

Cell Toll Free (888 800 6064)

www.arbutusphotography.com

There are many things that people might not naturally keep in mind; after all, their brain might be clouded with excitement for the big day!

When the weather cools down, here are our best tips to offer your clients right before the photography session — even if they aren’t related to photography.

Add Color

Winter weddings can often be lost in a sea of white, so use bright and vibrant flowers that really stand out in the photos. They’ll contrast with the snow, and look gorgeous on any landscape. For brides, wear a bright colored cover or jacket over your wedding dress to separate you from the elements.

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Cover Up

As mentioned above, have a jacket or a coat on your wedding day for any shots outside. You’ll want to stay warm and comfortable, it will look completely elegant, and goosebumps, well, that’s a memory that doesn’t need to be captured! White gloves, ear muffs, and a pretty scarf can also complement the outfit (on the groom and the bride!)

The Right Shoes

If you want some shots in the snow–it is a winter wedding, after all, choose a cute pair of boots and make sure they are hidden under your dress. Men should keep a polishing kit close by for muddy and wet weather, so indoors their shoes will shine.

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Bye Bye Bare Legs

If your wedding dress is long, there is no reason not to wear leggings or thick tights under your long dress. If you’re dress is shorter, complement it with a matching pear, some cute boots and, for a little fun, some leg warmers!

Indoor Photography

Indoor photography sessions can be fun, especially with the right props and dramatic lighting. Consider having one outside and one inside, as well, especially in areas with beautiful backdrops, huge windows, and more!

Gather Props

Think muffs, steaming mugs of hot cocoa, decorating a Christmas tree, going to a local ski resort, and having a snowball fight. Balance romance with fun, beauty with whimsy, and capture every moment on your big day.

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Choose the Right Transportation

If it is really snowy and icy, consider having the photos, ceremony, and reception at the same (or very close by) location so travelling is not an issue. Valet is also a nice touch.

Here are our top details of prepping for you wedding, what to do, and trouble shooting for anything you might encounter.

April Showers…

We all know the saying, but you shouldn’t shy away from April just because the weather might be a little rainy. If you plan for a wedding in the spring — no matter what month — you should plan for the possibility of rain. Outdoor weddings can be wonderful, so find a rental company that has a rain policy. This type of policy will include an agreement that if there is a forecast calling for wet conditions, you will receive a tent (even if it costs extra). There there will be times when guests are walking between tents or buildings, you can also rent hallways that will provide coverage along the way. Canopies and valet parking will help keep guests dry, as well.

Muddy Conditions

Where there is rain, there is mud, so make sure that you have stain-remover (such as a stick or wipes) in your wedding stash. If your dress gets muddy, just wait until the dirt dries, and try to scrape it off (gently!). If it stays, use the stick. You can protect shoes by stepping into plastic bags and securing them at the ankle, or buy special booties designed for this. If you feel like a fool, go for some galoshes, especially if they match your decor.

To protect white wedding shoes from mud during downtime, step into plastic bags and secure them at the ankle with rubber bands (included in the kit). Or for a cute photo op, wear preppy galoshes.

The Hot, Hot Sun

Spring is known for a warm sun that breaks through to heat up the afternoon. You don’t want guests to overheat, especially those more sensitive, such as your older guests, or men in their heavier suit jackets. If its a particularly warm spring, have small cold packs available and hand our freezer favors with the programs at the beginning. If your cake is also outside, choose one that will be covered in fondant as opposed to buttercream; fondant will hold up in the heat.
You may also want to opt for a light dress (you can always have a cover, as well), and wear your hair in an up-do.

Be Prepared

Even if the warm sun heats the afternoons, as soon as it goes down the temperature really drops. Let guests know that cooler attire might be needed, especially those who are coming from out of town. If nights are breezy, protect the candle flames by using pillars in glass hurricane holders, or use battery-operated ones.

It Gets a Bit Buggy

If you’re by water, such as a lake, beach, or near a pond, there might be lots of bugs around. Keep citronella torches aflame and baskets of bug repellant available. Preplan by asking your florist what the best flowers are, ones that don’t attract a lot of insects, especially bees. Skip on the perfume – you might want to advise close friends/family the same – and use unscented hair products.

Wedding photography in Victoria, BC is much to be admired, and it’s what we love to do!

If you’re considering a wedding photographer, check our packages, which range from three hour wedding day packages to full day packages with videographers as well.

You’ll be smitten by our portfolio, where our customers and happy couples continually recommend our services to friends and family.

To book us, you can contact us here or call us 888-800-6064. You can also check out our Facebook page (and take a look at the many more photos there).

In the meantime, read more about Victoria and why you’ll love it.

Victoria is nestled alongside the southern area of Vancouver Island, surrounded by the sea on all three sides. With oceanfront parks, rocky sea-sides, and hills of evergreens, the breathtaking scenery makes it a perfect choice for destination weddings and wedding photography. Plan your trip and your upcoming wedding based on how you like to celebrate; Victoria has something to offer all tastes and preferences. For those who want that extra romantic flair, there are horse drawn carriage rides and rentals, beautiful castles offering afternoon tea, and gardens that set the perfect theme. If you prefer something inspired by the West Coast, there are miles upon miles of beach access, breathtaking ocean views, and waterfront locations for the ceremony, photographs, or reception. If you’re one to love a rural area, you’re not far from a scenic area near the popular communities of Shawnigan Lake, Mill Bay and Cobble Hill, bringing you around lakefront properties, wonderful vineyards, and gorgeous landscape.

Tourists and locals love the year round climate, perfect for outdoor adventuring. From mountain biking to sailing, Victoria offers something for everyone. Just a ferry ride to the Gulf Islands and Vancouver BC, as well as the ferry from San Juan Islands and Anacortes, WA, Victoria is close-by many areas making it perfect for exploring tourists!

The British colonial history and Native culture is a large part of the picturesque city. Architecture hails from the 1800s, shops dot the street sides, and delicious eateries are found among the many historic landmarks.

Among the attractions includes Beacon Hill Park, home to the world’s tallest, free-standing totem pole carved from a single log. It’s also a gorgeous habitat for a variety of birds and wildlife, making it a popular recreation and destination location. Activities includebird watching, jogging trails, beach-related activities, sporting, horse back riding, and other activities, making it a great location for your guests to explore before or after the wedding. Photographers will be able to integrate the petting animal farm, water fountains, monuments, band pavilion, famous Garry Oaks, and other cultural features. This is just the start of it, including the breathtaking view over Dallas Road and carriage rides.

There’s also Victoria’s Market Square, home to many restaurants and shops. The Victorian-era Parliament Building in the Inner Harbour boasts elaborate stonework in its gorgeous structure  and at night, marvel at its 3333 illuminating lights. This is a perfect stop for those who want to see some of the city, making their way through the various shops, restaurants, and services. We recommend you visit for a dinner with your friends, or, if you’re a guest to the wedding, an eclectic addition to their gift.

The Inner Harbour also includes the Legislative Buildings, Royal BC Museum, and Thunderbird Park, the home of 15 totem poles. It’s also the best spot for your spot of tea, at the Fairmont Empress Hotel. The hotel offers a glorious tea, perfect for royalty, in its historic Tea Lobby.  You’ll stay in luxury thanks to a recent multi-million dollar renovation of each Fairmont Gold hotel room and can relax at the Willow Stream Spa–an essential complement to any visit.

Gardens are in abundance in Victoria, and Butchart Gardens is the best of them all. Over one hundred years old, this garden contains such a wide variety of colourful plants and natural life that it’s clear why over one million visitors flock to it each year. Featuring 55 acres of floral finery and spectacular views along the paths and expansive lawns, the Butchart Gardens are a Victoria landmark and a National Historic Site of Canada–and, obviously, a beautiful location for some wedding photography. It is one of Victoria’s most popular attractions and a sought after venue for spring ceremonies and receptions.

If you’re a history buff, you’ll love the Royal British Columbia Museum. British Columbia’s past, present and future are all nestled inside the Royal BC Museum. With a collection of more than seven million unique objects and documents, there’s something for everyone. You can even inquire about events: after an initial consultation, the Manager will assist you to meeting all of your needs.

If culture is more your beat, visit North America’s second oldest Chinatown (and the oldest in Canada). Victoria’s revitalized Chinatown is a popular area for tourists as well as the artistic community, and many historic buildings make it a wonderful destination for any Victoria wedding photoshoot before or after a ceremony.

For those who love the outdoors, we recommend Galloping Goose Trail, the best place to explore whether you’re on foot or bike. When you’re finished, embark on a journey into the sea, taking a boat tour to indulge in whale watching within the Pacific. Then while you’re out there, visit the Fisgard Lighthouse, a must-see landmark that is the first lighthouse on Canada’s west coast still in operation. Regardless what you choose, many wedding-based Victoria companies and services are there to make your day special, adding each and every frill that you are seeking.

Established in 1843 by James Douglas as a fort for the Hudson’s Bay Company, the British ancestry is clearly found within  the double-decker buses, horse-drawn carriages, formal gardens and parks, and beautiful tearooms. This is combined with an unbeatable downtown region filled with entertainment and attractions for everyone.

With carriages, an eclectic downtown core, and something for everyone, this beautiful Capital City is a perfect destination for your wedding or honeymoon. If you’re not sold already on its popular destinations, timeless beauty, romantic atmosphere, or its undeniable ability to meet everyone’s needs, check out our Client Gallery. We offer a wide range of photography and videography services, and are passionate about making your day as special as possible.

Read more about getting married in Victoria:

• Weddings Victoria
• Local Victoria and Vancouver Wedding Companies
• Tourism Victoria

We’ve captured loads of magical moments of weddings and engagements in and around the Vancouver and Victoria, British Columbia areas.

2011 was a spectacular year, reaching couples of all kinds documenting every moment of their dreams.

Our mission is to tell the story of one of the most memorable experiences of your life in a series of great photographs that you are guaranteed to love. We have over 20 years of combined experience in professional photography, and offer this through quality and exceptional value.

You won’t be disappointed. And here’s why:

We’ll be sure to capture traditional and not-so-traditional photographs, including those stolen kisses with your new spouse. The undeniable romance shines through.

Each photograph we take documents the moments leading up to and involved in your wedding. We offer and approach photographs with class, precision and beauty.

We never forget the fun and want to make sure that your personality shines through in every photograph. Our use of colors and shading ups the ante each time we capture a memory.

We’ll go to where you want to be, whether it is your grandmother’s backyard, a luxurious spa, or right beside the ocean. We’ll also give you suggestions to places that we know are the best around the Victoria and Vancouver areas.

Your love will be at the forefront of every photograph, with your story so private, yet so clear.

We’ll be there for each moment, whether the bride is getting dressed with her bridesmaids, the father of the bride is shedding a tear, the florist is perfecting a bouquet, or a shining tradition needs to be captured. Our team is somehow everywhere at once, with no stone left unturned.

Taking photographs the way you want them is key to us: we want our customer to be pleased. In addition, we take our expertise and bring you suggestions and ideas to make the most out of our time with you. We’re patient and excited about ideas, and truly love what we do.

Moments won’t be forgotten as we gather each moment and memory and create a timeline of your magical day.

Seeking out quality locations is key to us, as we find that perfect balance of beauty, art, and fun. Our unique approach and knowledge brings us above the rest, all of which is found inside your photography package after the event.

Our Facebook page is loaded with photographs, highlighting some of the best of this past year. We’re convinced our beautiful locations bring you the best of the best; it’s impossible not to fall in love with Victoria and Vancouver.

Victoria’s mild climate, bright sunny skies, and gorgeous foliage and flowers year-round makes it an ideal choice, especially for tourists. Nestled on the south side of Vancouver Island, it is surrounded by the ocean and laden with parks, rocky sea-sides, and hills of evergreens, the breathtaking scenery makes it a perfect choice for destination weddings.

Vancouver’s natural beauty that is hard to surpass, against a simple backdrop of nature-inspired scenery. As the largest city in BC, it’s diversity and spectacular scenery cannot be surpassed. Surrounded by water, nestled upon mountains, and dotted with celebrated architecture, the mild climate and haught design makes it a popular, and obvious, choice.

We encourage you to visit and like our Facebook page, and stay connected to our latest galleries and wedding reviews.

Unfortunately, the winter can wreak havoc on your tresses,so here are our best tips to keep them up to snuff.

First, you need to know what scalp type you have: that’s a starting point for everyone.

Oily scalps are classified with a greasy t-zone (centre of your face) by midday, limp roots, and large waxy flakes. Be sure to shampoo and massage your scalp daily, and since an oily scalp can become prone to folliculitis, lather up twice during the week of your period. If you have dandruff, use an anti-dandruff shampoo.

Normal scalps are classified with generally somewhere in between oily and dry. Hair doesn’t look greasy if you skip a shampoo for a day, and styling products don’t tend to irritate your scalp. Adjust your shampoo if you notice a difference in the seasons, and get rid of the product buildup with a weekly clarifier, if necessary.

Dry scalps are classified as generally dry skin, with an itchy scalp with some powdery-fine white flakes. It also might tingle with the application of certain products and color. Opt to shampoo every two or three days, and massage hair oil into the scalp before bed. In the cooler or dry climates, use a humidifier.

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After you have that under control, take some other steps to ensure that your hair is looking its best in the winter.

Winter hats, for example, can leave hair looking flat, but you don’t want to jeopardize your health. Instead, beat hat head by using a good leave-in conditioner or volumizing hairspray because well-conditioned hair will be better off after topped with a heavy hat.

Fight winter fly-aways with always ensuring you use conditioner, which will help keep any fly-away tresses in check. A deep conditioner will help dry hair; when applying it, start inches from the scalp and gently work your way to the end of each strand. In addition, opt for sleeping on satin: stain pillowcases will result in less fly-aways and silky, smooth hair. Rough fibres, in turn, can dry out your hair.

Above photograph by Chelsea Patricia

If you don’t have time or don’t want to wash your hair, consider seeking out a dry shampoo, instead. Revive dirty, oily hair quickly and easily by sprinkling on a bit of dry shampoo. Leave on for a few minutes before tousling with your fingers and brushing out. This also works well with a light dusting of baby powder.

Ban dandruff by using an antidandruff shampoo every other day for two weeks, and if  your hair appears brittle and frayed at the ends, chances are the cold, dry windy winter weather has taken its toll… along with any use of appliances or products. Although snipping your split ends is the best bet, you can also rub on a vitamin-E rich oil, which helps  moisturize it and bring it back to life.

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Even though its cold out, try to step away from the blow dryer a few times a week. Frequent exposure to hot appliances, such as blow-dryers, curling irons, and flat irons, takes the moisture out of your hair and can eventually lead to split ends and damaged hair. Instead, use a high-quality leave-in conditioner, then allow hair to air-dry. If drying your hair is a must, use an ionic hair dryer instead. Ionic hair dryers release negatively charged ions that break down water molecules, so hair dries more quickly, with less exposure to heat.

As the big day approaches, you definitely want to take the steps to keep those locks alive, and following these will get you there faster.

Wanda Kivitt Ballroom Dance

members.shaw.ca/classicballroom

Wanda helps individuals and couples of all ages to learn to dance and improve dancing skillsthrough fun-filled dance classes and lessons. Learn ballroom dances such as waltz, tango, foxtrot, quickstep, and the viennese waltz. Or get a little saucy with latin and rhythm dances such as the jive, cha cha, rumba, samba, swing, mambo, and merengue.

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Victoria Ballroom Dance Society

www.vbds.org

Victoria Ballroom Dance Society is a not-for-profit group registered under the Society Act of British Columbia, Canada. The mission of the society  is to promote ballroom dancing in all it has to offer: recreation, social, performance, and competition. They offer classes and workshops, practice sessions, and dances and competitions.

McGregor Dance Studio

www.mcgregordancestudio.com

The McGregor Dance Studio boasts a staff with a load of experience, including performances and instruction on cruiseships. They bring forward ballroom dancing as a social activity with artistic expression. They belong to the Canadian Dance Teacher’s Association, and are very knowledgeable in both American and International styles of ballroom dance. Classes and lessons are available, as well as private lessons. In particular, they do a great deal of wedding choreography to help couples prepare for the first dance.

Vancouver Academy of Ballroom Dance

www.teachballroomdancing.ca

The team at the Vancouver Academy of Ballroom Dance has a vision to provide a high quality and comprehensive training  in ballroom dance instruction, as well as to create a community where students can grow.

The Grand Ballroom

www.grandballroom.com

The Grand Ballroom group classes, designed and taught by Andy & Wendy Wong, is the most successful teaching system in Canada. Since 1994, the duo have taught more than 8200 classes. They offer a first dance wedding package, which includes two packages of private lessons to teach you how to excel at the first dance. You will learn at your own pace and your lessons will be tailored to your specific First Dance requirements. You will not only learn how to dance, but also how to walk on to the dance floor and end your First Dance elegantly.

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Night and Day Dance

www.nightanddaydance.com

Night and Day Dance focuses on movement, by way of partner dancing. They teach blues, swing, social ballroom and wedding dancing, along with other creative dance showcases. They offer a number of approaches to help couples prepare for their first dance together, from the basics of partner dancing to fully choreographed routines. Some last-minute options are also available.

Just Wanna Dance!

www.justwannadance.ca

A popular dance lesson studio in Vancouver, Just Wanna Dance! focuses on quality instruction to all ages and levels. For weddings, they understand the importance – and nerves! – that goes into the first dance. They are here to help, whether you just want to learn to dance or learn to put on a great show!

Dream weddings are definitely doable without draining the bank account. Just keep in mind that prioritizing is the key: what major aspects of your special day need to be done the way you want, and what ones can use a little penny pinching?

Here are our top eight ways to save on your wedding, while sacrificing nothing at all.

Invitations

Although it can be a little cumbersome, making you own invitations will equal hundreds of dollars saved. Ordering custom invitations from a professional stationery company can definitely be hard on the bank. Instead, do a little do-it-yourselfing. Purchase your own card stock from a craft shop or wedding supply store. Use a good-quality laser printer to print them at home. With the custom design and colors you choose, you might as well take it a step further by designing and printing your own wedding programs, save-the-date announcements, and custom wedding favours. A thousand more dollars or so saved right there.

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Location

Churches and halls charge astronomical prices, and you can already save a little money by having the ceremony and celebration all in one location. If a church isn’t your priority, see if reception halls have anywhere that you can host the I-do’s. What about a garden, courtyard, or other beautiful area? Your guests will also appreciate not having to go to a different location, and it saves you time and money.

Food

Let’s be honest: most of your guests don’t care if you set up a barbecue buffet over a six course dinner. What’s more, most reception halls have premium prices. Instead, just down a venue that allows you to bring in your own catering service. This lets you be able to shop around and find the best prices, as well as have a hundred percent control over what you’ll be serving. In addition, you can choose a reception hall based on using it for space, without having to worry about if the food flows as well.

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Alcohol

Similarly to food, seek out a venue that lets you bring in your own booze. You might have to pay a surcharge, but it will still cost a lot less.

Make the Favours

Another let’s be honest: how many guests really love that wedding favor? Unless it is something edible, these small trinkets can kill the bank and, probably, are underappreciated. You can make frames, or non-perishable materials months before the day to save yourself some time, or we recommend the delicious route: making your own truffles.

Centerpieces

Similarly, centerpieces need not be too fancy. For a cheaper option, simply make them yourself from seasonal items. Have some gourds at a fall wedding, or ask young nieces and nephews to carve out some pumpkins. For a winter wedding, use silver and gold bulbs. For spring and summer, try fruit baskets instead of flowers.

Fake the Cake

Wedding cakes can be extremely extravagant, and simple cakes doesn’t mean that it is going to be cheaper. Save money by having just one or two tiers of your cake, then use a fake cake for the rest. Have another sheet cake in the back for guests, and when they serve it, they won’t have any idea there was foam and cardboard under there.

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The Music

Live music is definitely a great option, and we don’t recommend cutting this from the ceremony. Ask the group (such as a string quartet) or musician (such as the harpist), to stick around a little while during the beginning when drinks are starting to get poured and people are mingling, but then send them on their way. Bring on the DJ during dinner. Most people will be focused on conversation and food, and then be ready to dance the night away.