Romantic

Romantic Ideas for a Wonderful Winter Wedding

The idea of tying the knot in the winter is one that plenty of couples find appealing. Whether you’re looking for something different from the traditional springtime affair or you have a specific affinity for the season, winter events offer a chance to imbue some serious magic into the occasion. Scenery includes snowy landscapes to shimmering lights that mimic the frozen stars in the sky, there are plenty of ways to incorporate life into your wedding. Consider these easy methods of infusing an amorous air into your special day and feel inspired.

Consider the Setting

Before you plan anything, consider the type of setting you would like for your wedding. If you live in an area where winters tend to be cold and unforgiving, avoid outdoor receptions. Still, you may wish to have a classic winter backdrop for some photos. Plan for this in advance by scouting your venue for options. Getting married on a mountain or at a higher altitude increases the odds of your event taking place surrounded by the calm, white touch of the winter. 

Plenty of people will not be able to guarantee snow for their weddings, however. Even a region that is typically impacted by blizzards in the thick of winter may see some unseasonable warmth instead. There’s nothing wrong with faking some of the magic. Bring in a backdrop and some artificial snow to easily create an outdoor scene from the warmth of your venue. 

Light the Space 

The right lighting always makes a difference in setting the mood for an event. Thankfully, winter weddings lend themselves to mood lighting. From the colorful strings that adorn holiday trees to the soft glow of candles lit on a chilly eve, this season invokes a ton of specific imagery when it comes to lighting. Use this to your advantage when planning the decor. Hanging twinkling lights around the venue can give the space a whimsical feel without the need to spend a small fortune or commit too much time to the project.

Candles are another classic choice. Of course, you must be mindful of using open flames in group settings. Check with your venue manager in advance to learn if you are allowed to light candles in the first place. If you are permitted to do this, be certain of any regulations in place. The absolute last thing you want is for a fire to break out because a drunken partygoer couldn’t keep from tripping over his own feet and into your display of ambient illumination. 

Serve Something Festive

The menu is another perfect place to bring out the themes of the season. There are plenty of flavors unique to winter. Since this time of year is primarily cold, most of the dishes served are those that provide a warm, comforting feeling to the soul. Roast chicken, mashed potatoes, an array of harvest vegetables, cranberries, strawberries, and fresh breads are all classic inclusions to consider. Depending on where you live, you may also wish to ask your caterers to serve a meal made from ingredients that are in season and locally abundant. 

Keep It Hot

Warmth is definitely important to keep in mind when you’re holding a winter event. If your dream venue is an old barn, you may need to go to extra lengths to keep the space heated for your guests. Serving hot drinks like coffee, cocoa, and mulled wines with seasonal spices can be another easy way to keep everyone toasty. How you decorate and light the space can also play into the general warmth of the atmosphere, so factor this in as you plan for the venue’s layout.

Creating a romantic setting for your wedding is easy when you take advantage of all that winter has to offer. Make the season bright, and include the images, tastes, and feelings that make the time of year so unique.

8 Romantic Sites to Visit in Montreal

There are plenty of romantic sites to be seen in Montreal.

Couples young and old can enjoy many of the romantic sites that Montreal has to offer.

If you’re planning a honeymoon, one of the nicest cities in Canada to visit is Montreal, but you don’t have to be newly married to take advantage of the romantic sites and locations along the St. Lawrence River. Revive your marriage by spending the weekend or a few days somewhere new. Here are eight of the best sites to rekindle your love.

 

Romantic Sites on Montréal

  1. Montréal Botanical Garden: Even if you aren’t a horticulturist, you will enjoy the beauty of the 20 thematic gardens, greenhouses and pavilion. Guided tours are available, or else just walk through the more than 75 hectares holding hands and talking about your dreams and aspirations. Don’t forget to turn off your phone and focus on your partner.
  2. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts: Since 1860, the museum has been showcasing fine art and sculptures. You can stroll through a sculpture garden, enjoy stained glass windows or classical artwork in one of the beautifully designed pavilions. The museum offers permanent collections of Canadian artists and typically has special exhibitions on tour.
  3. Biodome: Experience a rainforest or the sub-polar regions in the Biodome all within walking distance. It has more than 4,500 animals and 500 plant species all under one roof.
  4. Notre-Dame Basilica: Although the Basilica has religious roots, it draws in many visitors each year who want to explore the architecture and beauty of the parish. You’ll get a 20-minute guided tour as part of your admission and have the opportunity to see one of the best examples of Gothic Revival architecture in North America.
  5. Parc-Jean Drapeau: The parc offers the perfect opportunity for the adventurist. Depending on the season when you visit, you could enjoy the beach, museums, swimming, roller coasters and more. Check out their calendar for special concerts and events.
  6. Marché Bonsecours: A historical building with its own heritage, the Marche now houses boutiques and restaurants that feature Quebec artisans. It’s a must-stop on any trip to Montreal at least once to enjoy the local flavor and take home a piece of the area.
  7. Old Port of Montreal: The port offers a number of activities and attractions, such as the Montreal Clock Tower, the Science Center, access to the riverfront and many cultural events throughout the year. Rent a bicycle, Segway or roller blades to explore the 2-kilometer area filled with shopping and restaurants. You could easily spend your entire vacation enjoying the port and its activities.
  8. World Trade Centre Montreal: Located close to downtown, the Trade Center is a hotel and office building with indoor parking, restaurants and boutiques. Take a historic discovery tour or enjoy one of the special events that goes on throughout the year.

These eight locations are just a few of the many attractions in Montreal where you and your partner can get away from your normal life to reconnect. Take a walking tour of the city of just drive around and see the spectacular architecture, some of which dates back to the 16th century. The city has been designated a UNESCO City of Design, one of just three in the world. Explore the underground complexes for a different shopping experience. There are a number of beautiful churches, not only the Notre-Dame Basilica.

Montreal is home to many local restaurants where you can enjoy exotic food from other countries or experience the local flavors of Canada. It has a wealth of accommodations, from five-star hotels with all the amenities to small, intimate bed and breakfast inns. You won’t need a passport to travel to this historic and modern city that has been named Canada’s Cultural Capital by Monocle magazine. It truly could enhance your romantic life.

7 Great Places to Visit on Your Vancouver Honeymoon

Lion Gates Bridge is one of many places to spend your Vancouver Honeymoon.

Lion Gates Bridge is an attractive spot for couples looking to maximize their Vancouver Honeymoon fun.

Although there are many exotic locations around the world in which to spend your honeymoon, Canada offers a number of great places that are romantic and fun after the stress of a wedding. Flying domestic is typically much less expensive than taking an airplane to an international destination, making it good for your budget. If you’ve never experienced the lovely city of Vancouver, here are seven places to visit on your Vancouver honeymoon, anniversary or just a romantic getaway.

Great Vancouver Honeymoon Spots

  1. Capilano Suspension Bridge – The suspension bridge has been a main attraction in Vancouver since 1889, and many other features have been added to the landmark over the years. Walk across the bridge that sits 70 meters above the river and experience a view that is unlike any other. Take the cliffwalk or the treetops adventure to see all the rainforest has to offer. Don’t forget to take in the Story Centre, which is an educational feature that explores the fine details of the bridge.
  1. Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours – Who wouldn’t enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through many different famous settings in Vancouver? Private tours for two people are available, or you can join a group of even more people to see the red-cedar forest, the Rose Garden, the Lions Gate Bridge and some of the most iconic statues in the area.
  1. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden – The first classical Chinese garden in Canada is a perfect place to find peace and romance when you walk through the covered walkways and pavilions. Enjoy a jade green pond filled with koi fish, miniature trees, and tai hu rock. Have a cup of traditional Chinese tea before you leave.
  1. Vancouver Art Gallery – Take in some culture while you’re on vacation at a world-renowned museum. If you’re into photography, you’ll find a huge collection of works from Ansel Adams, Cindy Sherman and Henri Cartier-Bresson. The gallery also has a collection of paintings by Emily Carr, who is known for a modernistic style influenced by the local indigenous peoples of B.C.
  1. Science World – This museum may be known as a place for children to explore the scientific world, but adults can enjoy the exhibits and see how science and art collides. The Geodesic dome is a beautiful piece of architecture that should be admired. The museum periodically hosts adult-only events. Check the calendar to find dates and plan your trip accordingly.
  1. Queen Elizabeth Park – Even if you’re not into floral displays and horticulture, Queen Elizabeth Park offers stunning views in a romantic setting where you and your partner can talk and connect. The park sits 152 meters above sea level and is the highest point in Vancouver. It features native and exotic trees and beautiful sculptures as well as recreational activities.
  1. BC Place – The stadium is the home of the Vancouver Whitecaps and BC Lions, but it also hosts many different special events throughout the year. The retractable roof is a technological wonder, and if you ever get a chance to see this venue, you should definitely take advantage of it.

Vancouver offers many styles of hotels, from the most modern with all the bells and whistles to classical bed and breakfasts outfitted in antique décor. If you enjoy shopping, you’ll find a plethora of different stores featuring local designers and artisans to find the perfect souvenirs of your trip. If you’re into sports, Vancouver has a full selection of summer and winter sports venues. Enjoy the ocean or the mountains, both in the same day should you choose. You can’t go wrong when you take a trip to Vancouver to see all it has to offer.

Save