“ DON'T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP. I HAD A SUPPORTIVE TEAM OF GREAT WOMEN HELPING ME OUT. MY MOTHER AND MAID OF HONOUR WERE THE FOUNDATION STONES FOR MY PLANNING AND MY MOTHER-IN-LAW AND MY WEDDING PARTY WERE STRONG SUPPORTS. RECEPTION ACCENTS The Grand Renaissance Room at Le Jardin was resplendent with décor in golds, creams, ivory, blushes and blacks, described by guests as “glamorous as the Oscars”. From the moment delighted family and friends sampled the martini bar — de rigueur at a red carpet reception — it was star time. Personalized touches added to the dazzling ambiance. Centrepieces that featured three-foot-high silver candelabra with diamond-like trim on hurricane glass votive holders made a wow statement. The trim was repeated around the bottom of each layer of a four-tier wedding cake that was a blooming rosette with cascading petals inspired by the bride’s gown. The groomsmen exchanged their ties worn at the wedding for bow ties for the reception. The guest book was a custom eye chart that guests signed, focusing on the bride’s career as an optician. On a custom-wrapped white dance floor with their names written in black, Melissa and Geno took to centre stage for their first dance as husband and wife to “All Of My Love” by Led Zeppelin. The late-night sweet table was dazzling, with its array of French and Italian pastries, fruit, cakes and other delectable treats, alongside a waffle and crêpe station. For those lacking a sweet tooth, a porchetta station offered savory temptations. INTO THE FUTURE A honeymoon in Europe will be planned later, after the groom completes courses he is taking. In the meantime, Melissa and Geno continue to make beautiful music together in their relationship. WE Bridal Gown & Designer: Camellia by Rivini Bridal Shop: White Toronto | 416.849.9196 Groom’s Tuxedo: Coppley, from Freeman Formalwear | 905.850.7969 Bride’s Makeup: Dino Dilio | 416.969.9158 Rings: Highbury Jewellery | 416.455.4653 Décor: Susan Murray International | 416.243.9284 Reception: Grand Renaissance Room, Le Jardin | 905.851.2200 Cake: La Casa Dolce | 416.252.2253 Reception Music: DJ LiL Funky | 647.294.3865 Guest Favours: Donation, Heart & Stroke Foundation | 416.489.7111 Videographer: TVE Productions | 416.744.4200 Photographer: Julian Moniz | julianmoniz.com | 416.835.9950 Wedding Essentials 2013 89