I’ve attended the Fleur Luxury Bridal Show in Vancouver twice now, and the first time, I was a bride-to-be! For the 2018 edition last month, I attended as a wife! I was so honoured to be asked by JW Marriott Parq Vancouver to spend the night and to take over their Instagram the next day, capturing the show in my eyes, and let’s be real, the feels were at an all time high!

The morning started with a little more pampering (how could I say no?) at the Spa by JW - also known as The Glamoury. From there, I had my hair washed & styled as well as my makeup done - this service is called “The Works” on their menu.

But wait! Not only did I get my hair washed… the hair washing station chairs… were massage chairs! Nothing I’ve ever experienced before. I was a little disappointed when my wash was over, going to another salon might not ever be the same!

The hair + makeup application & styling was extremely professional and I enjoyed our conversations. There was also a cute accent wall for a selfie station to capture the final look!

From there, I attended the show. The main foyer of the fourth floor was transformed into a whimsical Parisian grand entrance. A 4 piece quartet was strumming to a beautiful tune and you can tell it was going to be a beautiful day. I attended a workshop - An Expert Breakout: Photography Prep with Blush Photography where Kristy (lead photographer) provided some insightful tips on everything wedding/ engagement photography. (Definitely picked up on a few things for future shoots!)

After the workshop, my photographer, Juliette (Ivory + Gold photography), grabbed a bite to eat at JW Marriott Parq Vancouver’s sprawling food offerings. As an avid cook & foodie, it was heaven on earth. There was a seafood bar - where there were king crab legs, crustaceans, shellfish, you name it, all expertly spread over an ICE BAR. You heard me. ICE BAR. To the right, my kryptonite, charcuterie & cheese - my lactose stomach had to refrain from hoarding all of the goods! But wait, there’s more! There were desserts, proteins, vegetables, a sliders bar (idea for Wedding late night snack?) and the most beautiful array of sushi I did ever see. Presentation was beyond what I imagined - there were edible flowers on the sushi to create that extra pop of colour of delight & pretty. (Cameras definitely ate first!)

With a happy stomach, we entered the Kitsilano ballroom - where I had my wedding reception! Inside, was my favorite part of last year’s FLEUR, the decor walk! I was so blown away by what local decor companies created. A few images below, (and note, a LLAMA!)

Inspired by the decor walk, we entered the Grand ballroom & attended the speaking panel. It was ah-ma-zing. Not only did they have Jessica Mulroney as one of the panelists, but also Aly Armstrong, producer of FLEUR Vancouver, Koreena Singh from Marriott International & Jason Sarai of Style by Sarai speak about upcoming wedding trends for 2019. This panel discussion was moderated by Erin Cebula, a local ambassador, storyteller & contributor to Living Lux Mag.

They discussed their past experiences involving themselves in the wedding industry, upcoming, overarching theme for 2019 (Bringing glamour back). And what stuck with me the most is what Koreena said, bring it back to YOU. Although I am no longer planning a wedding, these discussions resonate with me. I am a true believer of celebrating everyday moments. Yes, this is a larger, more luxurious scale, but I love taking all the inspiration and giving my take on it for everyday scenarios.

The panel discussion was followed by a stunning fashion show by Bisou Bridal, where I got my veil from! See below a few of my favourite moments.

Following the show, Juliette & I wandered over to the Parq Villa, where I was so fortunate enough to spend my Wedding eve & night at! Definitely caught a tear when I went upstairs to the bedroom. It brought back all the memories.

The Parq Villa had a beautiful presentation of what Style by Sarai could provide. From custom, bespoke suits, a bar by Remy Martin, a wide array of Gentlemen’s Culture textiles & cufflinks, Style by Sarai nailed it for showcasing what a groom, groomsmen or everyday businessman could achieve to find their personal, luxury style. What resonated most while Sarai was speaking on the panel, was that you invest in your bespoke clothing. Wedding dresses are worn once, some may sell them, sentimentalists like me preserve & box them hoping my future babies would maybe wear it on their special day. But for men, you HAVE the ability & potential future events to wear your garments again!

We ended our time back at the Grand Ballroom to check out more vendors, I got to say hi to my wedding decor & florist - Evan Orion of Koncept Events & Flowerz! Also there were tons of beautiful vendor booths to see!

The Glamoury had a booth set up (just in time for a makeup touch up) and I was beyond excited to see an ice cream stand by JW Marriott Parq Vancouver’s booth! Basically, my ideal ending of a fairytale day.

I’d love to thank the supportive team behind JW Marriott Parq Vancouver & Aly Armstrong for a relaxing, pampering, inspiring weekend. I definitely have a few ideas for upcoming content/ events because of it! Also, a MASSIVE thank you for my partner for FLEUR Vancouver, Ivory + Gold photography! Juliette has an amazing eye & unicorn ability to make me look great in front of the lens! For 2019/2020 brides, please definitely check out JW Marriott Parq Vancouver, Events by Aly Armstrong & Ivory + Gold photography. If they made two days of mine so memorable, can you imagine what they can do on your big day?!

With love,

Veronica