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Latest reviews on Vancouver Island wedding experts...

When it comes to gift registries, Hudson’s Bay Company is Canada’s Gift Registry

When the team at The Ring went on the hunt for a fabulous wedding gift registry, we were quickly lead to the Hudson’s Bay Company Gift Registry. With a name that stands for itself, The Bay Gift Registry is ranked as the first registry that comes to mind among Canadian brides. And luckily for nearlyweds, Vancouver Island has three Bay locations to choose from - two in Victoria and one in Nanaimo - where Registry Consultants are waiting to help you every step of the way. The Bay’s philosophy is simple. They make it their priority to help you build the best registry possible so that you’ll be ready for your new life together. We met with the team at The Bay to find out more about the registry, their selection, and what some of the hottest options and products are when it comes to today’s brides. Here’s what we found…

From planning to décor, Party Mood’s Anne Pollock brings experience, style and fun to your wedding

The first time we met Anne Pollock and witnessed her attention to detail and décor style in person, she was busy transforming a bridal show space, wall to wall, into an elegant vision by hanging countless strands of crystals from the ceiling. Anne’s business, Party Mood, is a full service décor, wedding coordination, décor rentals, and planning business. From vendor sourcing and bookings to all-out design, this all-about-the-details professional makes it her job to handle just about anything that goes into creating the ultimate wedding atmosphere. Both experience and formal training lead Anne to her career in weddings. In fact, she admits that fulfilling the needs of each wedding is her true calling, something that comes naturally to her. “It’s like breathing!” she told staff at The Ring. She laughs, admitting, “I think I have the party gene…”

Award Winning Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour Hotel makes attention to detail and cuisine their top priority for your wedding day…

From the moment you step into the Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour Hotel, you feel as if you have stepped back into a time where elegance reigned supreme and service was done with class. Victoria Marriott has won its awards on the words of their clients and it’s easy to see why. So when it comes to special occasions such as weddings, they put their considerable experience to work to create and customize your day. From caring for your guests and offering incredible cuisine – the Marriott is proud to say they do it all with excellence.

Kingfisher has everything you need, all in one Vancouver Island location

Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa is a truly stunning wedding destination on Eastern Vancouver Island. This location offers the opportunity to exchange your vows with the spectacular view of Gartley Bay and the Coastal Mountain Range as your backdrop. The Kingfisher staff and Event Coordinators are experienced in making weddings beautiful with thirty years in the business. They offer elegance within a casual setting, and the service to go along with it. In fact, the philosophy at Kingfisher is that it’s all about you. The options are endless at the Kingfisher for a bridal couple. They offer indoor and outdoor ceremony sites as well as the option of the gorgeous beach venue. There are reception rooms, honeymoon suites, elopement packages, exceptional catering, and a staff that is fully equipped and ready to take care of all your guests as well! Most importantly, The Kingfisher prides itself on being all-inclusive for weddings. Let us explain…

Long-time Victoria bridal boutique, Shades of White, is always happy to help brides find their dream dress…

Shades of White Bridal Fashions has been living and breathing weddings for nearly twenty-five years. Owners, Amanda, Dustin & Monica, locally run and operate this business along with their twelve staff members (‘the girls’!). Together, the team is made up of a combination of talented women who have a variety of passions and backgrounds, all brought together by a desire to play a part in one of the most important times in a couple’s life. And as the Shades of White staff grew into a family of their own, the store itself has grown to become a large part of the Victoria wedding community.

Your day and your story is captured in timeless images with a unique approach by Curtis Pelletier Photography

Inspired by people and by joyous events, he uses a photojournalistic shooting style and an obsession with organization to capture his couples’ real story…

Gorgeous orchard weddings at Merridale Ciderworks offer rustic country charm, true service, beautiful surroundings & a budget for every bride

The gorgeous orchard property, long list of customizable options, eclectic, country chic deco, true hands-on service and budget-friendly options are among some of the reasons we (and so many Merridale brides) have fallen in love with this wedding venue.

Cheryl Pedley, A Westcoast Celebrant, crafts collaborative ceremonies of joy, love and intimacy for couples across the Vancouver Island area

Based out of Nanaimo but officiating at weddings across all of Vancouver Island, this is one woman that should make your must-see list when it comes time to plan your ceremony...

Sooke Harbour House offers local cuisine and an amazing beachfront wedding venue for large or small weddings, indoors or out

Located on Whiffen Spit Beach in Sooke, BC, this boutique hotel offers reception spaces, restaurant, spa and twenty eight luxury guest rooms. Local art of every type graces the premises. The walls are lined with magazine articles from around the world, each highlighting the resort and the numerous international and national awards they have won over the years.

Andrew Paquet Photography offers spontaneity, romance and adventure for your wedding day!

Harking back to the esoteric style of the 30’s and 40’s, sophistication and glamour are the calling card of photography team, Andrew Paquet, Jennifer Paquet and Matthew Vasselin. They cover all those bases with modern and intimate touches, and a wonderful eye for detail shots, all the while creating a fun and enjoyable atmosphere during your occasion.

Award-winning, well-known Comox Valley photographer, Karen McKinnon, captures timeless love stories with a warm, contemporary shooting style

There are countless reasons why her brides love her, ranging from her natural artistry to her laid back, stress-free approach to working with clients. With Karen McKinnon, it’s about capturing the connection between couples and bringing back those incredible memories of love and happiness from their wedding day. Here’s more on why couples can’t get enough of Karen…

A Sea of Bloom Floral Designs brings local passion and unique designs together with a love for her clients.....

When we walked up to Karen Stone’s shop, A Sea of Bloom Floral Designs, we were immediately struck by the fun, bright exterior of blue as well as the signature canoe at the front door, overflowing with lovely blooms. Unsurprisingly, Karen’s bubbly personality matches her shop and she views everyone who comes through her shop doors as a new friend!

Bliss Gowns and Events are a favourite with Island brides for bringing décor and fashion together under one roof.....

From beautiful bridal fashion to stunning décor services, Bliss Gowns and Events in Nanaimo specializes in customizing your wedding while working within your budget. Owners, Wendy Pugh and Pam Blanchard, combine a passion for customizing wedding décor with a love of bridal and special occasion gowns. Their mission is ‘to make your vision simple’!

Natural beauty meets relaxed and intimate weddings at famous Wickininnish Inn!

Wickininnish Inn, which boasts surfside accommodations, world-class cuisine at Pointe Restaurant and the famous Ancient Cedars Spa, is the perfect choice for the bride and groom who wish to have a West Coast wedding. Named after a Tla-o-qui-aht chief from the late 1700’s, the Inn has actually moved locations during its history....

Best Western Premier Prestige Oceanfront Resort offers high style weddings for local and destination couples

Having just celebrated its Grand Opening in June of 2011, The Best Western Premier Prestige Oceanfront Resort is already a sought-after location for the high style weddings of both local and destination couples. The Prestige offers everything a bride could want in her wedding experience; gorgeous ocean and mountain views, seaside ceremonies, fabulous ballrooms, upscale accommodations for guests, and a spa that everyone should have a chance to experience at least once. The team at The Ring had the opportunity to tour the spaces, be treated in the spa, and stay overnight in the gorgeous guest rooms. Here’s just a few of the reasons why so many brides are adding Prestige to their must-see lists…

Victoria’s four Ooh La La locations offers cupcakes and cakes that are as sweet as their name

When you walk through the doors of one of the four fabulous Ooh La La Cupcakes locations in Victoria, it’s hard to believe that owner, Sherryl Andrews, was a nurse for 34 years. Because surely, this was exactly what she was meant to do. Yet, luckily for island brides, it’s true. After a ‘now or never’ moment in her life, Sherryl opted to reinvent herself by taking the plunge into the world of weddings. So with the sweetest name in the business, and some of the best cupcakes (and cakes) we’ve ever tasted, what more is there to say about this locally owned and operated boutique cupcake bakery? Plenty, as we found out…

5 star Georgian mansion, Villa Marco Polo Inn, offers old world charm, renaissance architecture, and many, many options for an elegant wedding

It doesn’t get any better for the bride looking for a classic, old-world venue for her wedding day. When we recently visited the historic Villa Marco Polo Inn, located in Victoria’s Rockland neighbourhood, we had to share this find with brides in The Ring. We absolutely love this spectacular Inn with its Italian Renaissance architecture and magnificent gardens. The perfect site for a romantic, intimate wedding! While touring this five-star, elegant property, thoughts of turn-of-the-century celebrations or the days of Great Gatsby’s galas come to mind. As you walk into the Heritage mansion, you’ll see that you can host your entire wedding at the Inn, making it possible for your closest family and friends to stay with you as the wedding of your dreams unfolds over a few days. Liam Morton and Eliza Livingston, owners, have created an exquisite atmosphere to bring that dream to a reality. “We offer a romantic backdrop to the union of two families, and the beginning of another.”

Victoria Bridal Boutique provides a relaxed bridal experience - no matter the budget!

At Victoria Bridal Boutique, it isn’t just about helping a bride find her special dress. For owner, Sherrie Galey-Creasser, and her Bridal Consultants, it’s about listening to each bride’s love story, wedding details, and style, and then using that knowledge to make sure they find their dream wedding gown that fits the personality of both the bride and her wedding day. So, for brides who wants to add creative and personal flare to their wedding dresses, this is one location that should be added to the must-see list......

Foxgloves Flowers mixes inspiration with beautiful blooms to create lush, fabulous gorgeous wedding floral designs

The Wedding Ring is extremely proud to count Colleen O’Farrell, of Foxgloves Flowers in Victoria, among our Wedding Experts. Colleen has a Visual arts degree from Camosun College, a BFA from Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, and won top honours at the Victoria Flower and Garden Show in 2002 and 2003. She has also won numerous FTD bridal competitions over the years, been published in numerous news papers, and magazines such as Wedding Bells, Real Weddings, Bliss Victoria and Style at Home, the cover of Island Bride on 2 occasions. Wow! Colleen believes in the, “if you want it done right, do it yourself” adage and can be found playing a role in every order, big or small, wedding or otherwise. We wandered into her lovely studio and were overwhelmed with the sights and scents of flowers being vibrantly arranged. Scattered about were photos of her latest triumphs and we were happy to flip through and admire! Colleen’s creations are, as bride Kristen put it, “Unique, romantic, classy and sophisticated.” All of this made us eager to know even more about Colleen and her floral style..

Vivid Photography offers artistic, edgy photography for stand-out wedding photos

When we met Neil Gaudet and Adam Collishaw, of Vivid Photography, we couldn't believe how polar opposite they are – the yin and the yang. It might be part of the reason why brides rave about their photography, describing it simply as "epic". We were blown away when Neil and Adam showed us some of their most physical shots to date (lying on the ground and climbing up trees seems to be the norm!). It was obvious how much they enjoy the new challenges that each couple brings. The results are some truly iconic photography and a lot of delighted brides and grooms.

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort offers an incredible backdrop for your wedding day

Black Rock Resort is simply a stunning example of architecture set off by nature. The waves crash against the glass lobby reminding everyone who stands there of the forces that lie just beyond our control. And it makes for some once in a lifetime wedding photography! But Black Rock Resort doesn’t sit back on its laurels of spectacular views – they work tirelessly to provide a wedding couple and their guests with top notch service and nary a worry on your wedding day.

The Butchart Gardens offers a one-of-a-kind venue for couples who dream of a beautiful garden wedding

When we walked through the gates of The Butchart Gardens in Victoria, it was easy to understand why couples from all over the world dream of a Butchart wedding. It's almost impossible to truly do justice to one of the world’s most beautiful gardens without experiencing it for yourself! We love what The Butchart Gardens can offer a couple on their wedding day. As Owner, Robin Clarke commented, “We have been asked by many people over the years to hold weddings in our garden, and we feel that, at this time of year, one could not find a more beautiful indoor venue......

Old school romantic and pro photographer, Szymon Szymczakowski, focuses on capturing your precious wedding moments for a lifetime

Szymon Szymczakowski admits he is an old school romantic. And there isn't anything more romantic or heart-filled than photos of the people and events that mean the most. "Our moments are precious. They only happen once. To capture them, you need someone who will take the time to know you, someone who will pour his heart and soul into creating photographers that will move you." The team at The Ring love Szymon's ability to capture the essence of the people he photographs. He says he takes the time to truly get to know who you are, and that this is how he translates that connection and your personality into images that you'll appreciate for life. With his gentle, unobtrusive approach to your wedding day and genuine care for the couples he shoots, Szymon is quickly on his way to becoming one of the 'must meet' photographers on the island. Here's more on Szymon...

If you’re looking for THE dress, there’s a good bet its right inside The Bride’s Closet, Nanaimo

If customer service, selection of high quality gowns and intimate setting are important to your decision making process when buying a gown...look no further! When the Ring talked with brides who purchased their gowns at The Bride’s Closet in Nanaimo, we found that they all agreed that owner, Fern Descoteau, and her team of ladies made a big impression with their service and the huge amount of dresses in stock. This was where they found THE dress! How did Fern begin helping brides make that special purchase?

North island brides find one-stop shopping for the entire wedding, all at Bird of Paradise Floral and Wedding Boutique

A bridal boutique where you can purchase your dress, his tuxedo, the bridal party’s tuxes and dresses, order your flowers, and plan out your décor? No, it’s not a fantasy… It’s Bird of Paradise Floral and Wedding Boutique in Campbell River. A bride can cross off many items on her to-do list at this boutique, never having to sacrifice a single detail of her wedding dream. Owner, Lori Gooldrup, and her right hand man, Stephen Chapman, say they can singlehandedly lower a bride’s stress level while customizing her wedding day, no matter what the budget. As a North Island bride, planning your day can mean driving long distances to check out different venues and services, but Bird of Paradise wants you to stop driving and start planning. Here’s what we found when we went to visit their shop…

From Australia to Vancouver Island, and celeb photos to wedding photos, Lee Simmons of Island Life Photographics was born to have a camera in his hand

Lee Simmons of Island Life Photographics, based in Campbell River, is the photographer for your special day! Lee's style is gentle, detailed, and personal, towards not only the couple, but friends and family. As well, there are some shots sprinkled with humour and wit...

Karen McNeil Photography - Victoria BC Nanaimo BC Wedding Photography

Latest reviews on wedding experts

in Victoria, Nanaimo, Courtenay/Comox and Vancouver Island area

GET LOCAL. PLAN FABULOUS! Reviews on everything from the best halls and resorts for reception to the ultimate in stylish florists, designers and gown shops, you'll find it right here in The Ring. Over the course of the next few months, the team at The Ring will be interviewing, researching and reviewing the wedding experts that local brides love best in preparation for our official launch, January 1st 2012. Want to help? Email your vendor recommendations and feedback to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Why The Ring? What are reviews all about? Who pays? How do we know who brides love? These questions and more are answered here.

Wedding experts come together to help build a community for Vancouver Island brides

January 2012 | The Vancouver Island wedding community is home to some of the industry's most fabulous and trend setting wedding experts in all of Canada. There are options for every style, size and budget of wedding. That leaves brides wondering how and where to start.

Where do you find the perfect gown? Where can you afford to host your 250 guests? Which resort offerts seaside ceremonies for 150 guests? How far ahead do you have to book at one of the most sought-after destination locations in Canada?

One of The Wedding Ring's 2012 resolutions was to interview, research, review and report on on everything a Vancouver Island bride needs to know to plan her wedding - to change the way Island brides plan weddings. (And by 'change', we mean 'pitch-all-the-to-do lists-because-we've-just-done-all-research-for-you'.)

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