“On our wedding day we laughed when Melissa’s brother tore up the dance floor with his one-of-a-kind moves!” “We cried when we felt the overwhelming emotions as we expressed our gratitude and appreciation to our parents for their unbelievable kindness, support and generosity.” Melissa’s fondest memory was during the reception. “During a brief quiet interlude, Adam and I looked over the room and saw so many of the people that we love and care about celebrating our happiest day together. We simply embraced the moment.” Adam’s fondest memory was when everyone went outside on the terrace for a surprise fireworks display. “This was a perfect moment for me with all our family and friends behind us and my wife in my arms, watching this visual masterpiece. Van Morrison’s ‘Moondance’ was playing in the background.” What Adam loves about Melissa: “I love that she’s a perfectionist. It comes out in every part of our lives, in our wedding, in her career, in our home — everything is done with such care. Besides being stunningly gorgeous, she has a heart of gold.” What Melissa loves about Adam: “He makes me feel so confident and I appreciate how much he supports making my dreams come true. He reminds me to keep myself healthy and strong; underneath all that masculine demeanor is a true nurturer. I love that he always makes me laugh, takes my worries away and is always there to be my very best friend. And he loves family so much; he is an amazing son, brother and a proud uncle.” Melissa’s advice to brides: “Don’t shy away from exactly what you want. Stay true to yourself and your vision. You will thank yourself later!” Adam’s advice to grooms: “Get involved and put in your opinion. Men tend to be very passive then complain about things they didn’t like or would have done differently.” Best piece of marriage advice they have been given: “Never go to bed angry. It helps us to remember to let go of the little things that are not important and will pass — things that are not worth being, or staying, upset about. Our parents passed this along to us.” THE GOWNS The custom Ines Di Santo creation for Melissa featured a sweetheart strapless mermaid fit with dramatically full skirt. “I always knew I was going to have a dress from this designer, not only because her gowns are stunning works of art, but also because of the opportunity to collaborate with Ines to make my vision become reality. I love her sincerity, her passion for designing and the fact that she is so genuine.” The bridal attendants’ gowns, designed by Monique Lhullier, were very feminine, airy and whimsical. The soft lavender/mauve shade, accented by custom sashes flanked with crystal and pearl embellishments, added a subtle touch of colour. DELECTABLE TREATS The array of wedding treats was spectacular. Dessert was decadent.... vanilla and raspberry ice cream crêpes alternating with mango and raspberry sorbet in a chocolate waffle basket. After an evening of dancing and celebrating, guests were fortified by latenight refreshments, including mini-burgers, crêpes suzette station options and chocolate fountain offerings. The spectacular five-tier wedding cake was not only gorgeous with its handmade flowers decorated with edible crystals and pearls, but also irresistibly delicious, by all accounts. Wedding Essentials 2013 39