The wedding itself is a jumble of events, all in one. Bridal parties, showers, taste testing, the ceremony and the reception – and often, this is just a portion of it. From tracking guest lists, to choose music, flowers, and caterers, to maintaining essential details, it can definitely be a lot of work.

For most of us, a wedding planner isn’t financially feasible, so when we heard about a virtual varation, we wanted to share it with you.

Like for most things in life, Google has the answer, with an addendum to their popular Docs program with over 20 wedding templates available in the Google Docs template gallery. From tracking your budget to organizing invites to keeping track of vendors, it helps keep you on top of all of the details.

Like with other Google Docs, you can easily share your documents, spreadsheets, forms and information with your anyone who is helping you out. And because you can use your smartphone to access them, you never have to worry about email attachments and updates because your data is consistently present at your fingertips.

Google has also teamed up with StyleMePretty.com, a popular wedding website to offer tips and assistance in your wedding planning.

Whether you’re brainstorming What to Ask a Wedding Photographer, saving recipes for favours (like truffles!), planning your trip around the Vancouver area, or looking for Local Companies in Victoria, it can help keep track of all of your wedding needs!
To learn more about simplifying wedding planning with Google Docs and Style Me Pretty, visit docs.google.com/wedding.

Black and bold

Step away from whites and pastels. This year, stick with the only white as your wedding dress, then top it off with black accents and bright colours. Flowers, dresses, accessories and adornments will produce a vibrant background against simple blacks and whites.

Eco-friendly weddings

Keep it sustainable by choosing to be planet friendly. From vintage wedding dressed to recycled invitations, we’re going a little greener for our big days. Read more in our post Eco-friendly Wedding Ideas.

Rethink your venue

Along with saving the environment, think about saving a little more in your bank account. Consider having a backyard wedding, either at your own home, a family member or friends, or even a local park or beach. Rustic, casual and money conscious, it’s a private, intimate way to really bring the ceremony home.

Feel good food

Yes, we all love salmon with reduced potato emulsion atop crisp shallot croutons with a side of green bean slivers with almond redux. But really, wouldn’t you rather just have some pizza and macaroni and cheese? More weddings are choosing casual buffets over pricey sit downs, and even opting for making their own menu. You can even easily make your own Coconut Cream Wedding Cupcakes.

Coconut Cream Cupcakes

You’ll need:

1 cup butter, softened
1 (8oz) package cream cheese, softened
3 cups granulated sugar
6 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon coconut extract
3 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 cups coconut flakes

Preheat oven to 350F. Line muffin tins with liners and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together cream cheese and butter. Add sugar, beating until light and fluffy.

Mix in eggs one at a time, then add in extracts. Beat in flour and baking powder, mixing until just blended. Stir in coconut and spoon batter into prepared pan.

Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for five minutes in pan, then invert onto cooling racks to cool completely.

for the icing:

1 cup shortening
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
1/2 cup water
8 cups sifted icing sugar

In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of your mixer), blend together shortening, salt, extracts, water, and 4 cups icing sugar for 10 minutes. Add the rest of the sugar and beat until well mixed.

The spectacular scenery is one that cannot be surpassed; Vancouver is surrounded by water, nestled upon mountains, and dotted with celebrated architecture. The mild climate makes it perfect for year-round visiting for tourists, as well as optimal livability for locals.

With a population of 578,000, the city covers 114.7 sq km (44.3 sq miles), and is part of Metro Vancouver, the third largest metropolitan area in Canada.  Vancouver and has won many awards for its ingenuity and leadership that occurs across the city, the most recent being attributed to the 2010 Olympic games.

Vancouver combines a cosmopolitan city with a world class resort-like atmosphere. With an abundance of golf courses situated among the mountains and rolling greens, celebrated ski resorts, and noteworthy arts and theatre, there is something to appeal to everyone.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, the hiking and walking trails are second to none. Among them is Stanley Park, one of North America’s largest urban parks. Over 1,000 acres in size, Stanley Park is home to an aquarium, children’s farmyard, and 33 kilometres (22 miles) of hiking and walking trails. Also nestled with the park are cycling paths, tennis courts, Indian Totem Poles and a scenic drive.

Other popular destinations include Queen Elizabeth Park, which is home to an amazing  360 degree view of Vancouver and beautiful arboretum. Also among them is the VanDusen Botanical Garden, which contains thousands upon thousands of beautiful and rare flowers and plants. Hastings Park, too, is highlighted for its marsh sanctuary and Italian formal garden. The Bloedel Conservatory is a large collection of tropical plants and flowers, with free-flying exotic birds.

The lively downtown core offers every amenity you can imagine, from restaurants to clubs to parks  and more. World-class entertainment, such as the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and beloved sporting events, like our Vancouver Canucks, lets you plan your stay based on your favourite things to do.

More of the outdoorsy-type? There is a plethora of hiking and mountain biking available in the spring and summer seasons, and skiing at the popular Whistler-Blackcomb resort in winter.

The numerous parklands, attractions and mix of fun and relaxation is what makes it stand out as a top wedding destination in Canada.

Read more about getting married in Vancouver by visiting:

• Weddings West
• Vancouver Park Board
• Vancouver Wedding Place

Image courtesy of stayandtour.ca

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.

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. 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.

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.

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.

If you’re a history buff, you’ll love the Royal British Columbia Museum, and if culture is more your beat, visit North America’s second oldest Chinatown.

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.

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 electic downtown core, and something for everyone, this beautiful Capital City is a perfect destination for your wedding or honeymoon.

Read more about getting married in Victoria:

• Weddings Victoria
• Tourism Victoria

Image courtesy of pixelpat.com

Surrey is no exception. It is the 12th largest city in Canada and the second largest in BC. As a mixture of beautiful landscapes, amazing parks and rich culture, it shines as secret getaway destination on the West Coast – throughout every season.

Nature lovers will rejoice with over 6000 acres of gardens and foliage. Over six hundred parks boast nature at its best, with activities such as bird watching to take it all in. Sporty folks will love the the many national and international sporting events held here, as well as the numerous trails that for hiking and biking.  And the artistic bunch will savour the various performances and exhibitions. From live theatre to emerging art galleries, there is something for everyone.

Staying in Surrey is never a problem, whether you find yourself at one of the many stay-and-play hotels for those who love to golf, or a private spa getaway for those who need pampering. Many inns and bed and breakfasts are situated among the rich agricultural landscape, with blueberry and pumpkin close at hand.

Approximately 35% of the land is dedicated to agriculture, combined 2,300 hectares of park and open space, resulting in a beautiful mecca filled with fresh air, fun and something for everyone.

Image courtesy of thundercloud.net

Chocolate Raspberry Truffles

1/2 cup heavy cream
12 oz. dark or semi-sweet chocolate (good quality)
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam
2 tablespoons raspberry liqueur
pinch of salt
1/2 cup sifted cocoa powder (unsweetened)

Bring cream to a boil over medium heat in a saucepan. Remove from heat then add chocolate, stirring until smooth.

Let cool, add butter, stirring until smooth. Add jam, liquer and salt, mixing well.

Transfer chocolate mixture into a bowl, then cover and chill until firm, about 5 hours.

Using a spoon, form teaspoonfuls into balls, then roll in cocoa powder. Let chill separated on a baking sheet lined with waxed paper, then store in the fridge or freezer.

Lemon White Chocolate Truffles

6 oz. white chocolate
6 tablespoons lemon curd
2 tablespoons heavy cream
pinch of salt

12 oz. white chocolate, to coat

Melt 6oz. white chocolate either in a double boiler or microwave. Mix in the lemon curd, then cream and salt. Transfer to a freezer safe bowl and chill in freezer for about three hours.

Use a teaspoon to shape into truffles then return individual truffles to freezer for 1 hour. (Refreeze these on a baking sheet lined with waxed paper)

Melt remaining white chocolate and let it come to room temperature. Coat each truffle then return to baking sheet and freezer or fridge to harden.

Classic Chocolate Truffles

4 oz. bittersweet chocolate
4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon strongly brewed coffee
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
icing sugar
unsweetened cocoa powder

Place chocolate in a bowl. Heat cream in a small saucepan over medium heat then pour over chocolate, whisking until smooth. Add coffee and vanilla and let sit for 1 hour.

Using a teaspoon form truffles and place onto a baking sheet lined with waxed paper. Place in fridge until firm.

Roll truffles in icing sugar or cocoa powder and store in the fridge or freezer.

Image courtesy of dessert.net.au

Invitations

The best solution is the e-vite, but try to steer clear of the mass email. Minimally, design a .pdf to your guests, instead of a simple email. If you want to send the paper versions, be sure to make it recycled.

Ceremony

Save on flowers by getting wed amongst beautiful natural foliage. If you’re having an outdoor wedding, choose one with a venue in bloom.

Location

Choose a destination that is the best option for ease of travel. The further they travel, the more of a footprint they leave.

Favours

Try our homemade truffles or make little packets of container-plantable seeds.

Wedding Dress

Second hand dresses can be a great choice, but many designers are also branching out to eco-friendly fabrics. (read more on eco-friendly gowns from ecoki.com)

Image courtesy of feelgoodstyle.com

Hiking trails

From Stanley Park to Pacific Rim National park, our trails feature giant trees, breathtaking coasts, and private day-long excursions for the casual walker to the seasoned outdoor enthusiast.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Whether its your favourite winter sport or you’ve never hit the slopes, the Rocky and Coast Mountains are a must! Visit Whistler ski resorts, home to the Olympics, or one of the other top-rated destinations in the region

Sailing

Winter sports not your thing? Still stay outdoors and try sailing instead, in one of BC’s abundant river or lakes. The scenery, we promise, just can’t be beat.

Whale Watching

Not into sports? No problem. Join the many tours for spotting killer, humpback and minke whales on variation cruises and tours. You can also visit smalltown Tofino or Ucluelet, located near Pacific Rim National Park, perfect for site seeing.

Winery tours

Drink to your love along The Okanagan Wine Route, which makes its way through the Thompson Okanagan Valley, the oldest wine region in BC. With over 100 wineries there is many to choose from.

Image courtesy of wineestates.ca

1.  Discover the beauty of whale watching.

2. Visit the impeccable, world famous Butchart Gardens.

3. Saunter hand-in-hand down the Dallas Point Breakwater.

4. Start your antiquing early on Fort Street

5.  Find a spot on the ferry headed to Sidney Spit Provincial Park, a beautiful island

6. Pack a picnic and rent a boat for the afternoon

7. Take a scenic tour by carriage, foot or air.

8. Swim around in the tide pools at Botanical Beach.

9. Try surfing at Jordan River

10. Head over to Sidney by the Sea and visit the Mineral World Scratch Patch at the marina

11. Stroll hand-in-hand through Beacon Hill Park – and make sure you visit the petting zoo

12. Then head to the Beacon Drive-In Restaurant for some ice cream.

13. For something a little different, visit the wax museum.

14. Rent some bicycles then head down to the Galloping Goose Trail  (above, courtesy of panoramio.com) for our most recommended route

24. Grab some snacks and visit the Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary. Bring a camera to capture some nature-inspired shots as you hike around the lake

25. Love to hike? Check out East Sooke Park, too.

36. And then Lone Tree Hill.

37. Stock your hotel fridge (and stomachs) with the fresh goods at the Saturday Market in Ganges on Saltspring Island, and the fruit and vegetable stands throughout the Saanich Peninsula and Oldfield Road.

38. Explore the eclectic goods from the crafters and artisans on Mayne Island

39. Try scuba diving at Race Rocks

40. Learn about BC’s naval history and visit the city’s oldest buildings at the Esquimalt Naval Base

41. Visit a bird sanctuary, beach and park at Witty’s Lagoon (below, courtesy of beaconhillphotos.com)

42. Get a couples massage at one of the many spas in the area

43. Take in the amazing fireworks display in July or August at Butchart Gardens

44. Go back to childhood and fly a kite at Clover Point

45. Golf on one of the many prized and award-winning golf courses

46. Definitely check out the Dominion Observatory

47. Tour one of the many old churches

48. Visit the historic Rogers’ Chocolates, famous for their  cream centre chocolates.