Love is in the air and wedding season will soon be upon us, but amid the barrage of decisions to make and dates to secure, sometimes it seems that planning the wedding takes over from what’s most important… the marriage.
We checked in with Catherine Lash, creative director and owner of The Wedding Co. to get some advice on keeping it simple and an insider’s scoop on the latest in wedding trends. For the past 17 years, Lash has brought together the best one-of-a-kind exhibitors to produce the Wedding Co Market, Toronto’s favourite, boutique-inspired wedding event. This year’s event takes place Feb. 25 at Artscape Wychwood Barns.
Artscape: What’s the most common worry or stress that you see with couples planning their wedding? What advice can you offer to relieve that stress?
Lash: Without a doubt, money and budget cause the most stress. The number one way to relieve budget stress is to have a realistic budget and stick to it! It is very easy to spend more than you have and starting a marriage in debt is not worth it.
Artscape: How can couples cut some cost without cutting corners?
Lash: A smaller guest list can really cut down your budget. Your biggest expense will be food and beverages, so a small wedding means fewer mouths to feed.
As well, choose what is most important to you and invest your money there. If flowers are important to you but you don’t really want a sweet table, just have a simple cake and then you can have the bouquet of your dreams.
Artscape: We’ve been hearing a lot about the +1 rule (a.k.a. the No Ring, No Bring rule). What’s your take on that?
Lash: I think this is ridiculous. You can’t have a blanket rule. There is a difference between a couple who have been together for 3 years and are very much committed and a couple who have been dating for 6 months.
Artscape: What are some new trends you’re seeing in wedding style?
Lash: I’m a firm believer in not following trends, but in working with what you truly love, that speaks to who you are. We are seeing a real trend toward choosing local and seasonal pieces. This year’s Wedding Co Market really showcases the best that local has to offer. Like…
- Hanging floral statement pieces
- Sparkle, colour and lace wedding dresses
- Custom accessories like men’s shoes, dresses and suits
- Moody florals, including shades of purple and dark foliage
- Bye-bye country barns! Unique wedding venues are in – think theatres, urban barns, museums, industrial downtown spaces.
Lash: I’m not just saying this – I’m excited about all of them! Every exhibitor has such a unique sense of design and exceptional service, there is something for everyone at The Wedding Co. Market.
Artscape: If you could give a couple only one piece of advice for planning their wedding, what would it be?
Lash: Remember, you are not getting married to plan a wedding you are planning a wedding to get married.
