Beginning in November, some people sport red poppies on their lapels to honor those who died in military conflicts. Americans wear red poppies in May for the same reason. White poppies are for those who passed away in service, but not during a conflict. On November 11, we celebrate Remembrance Day. Some churches have special services. If you have family members who passed away during the war, you may go out to their grave and honor them. Canada recognizes Remembrance Day as a national holiday, but for many, it’s just another day off work. Learn more about the importance of this day and why we wear red poppies.
World War I
It was the British Empire that chose to take Canada into the First World War. Nearly 61,000 Canadians died in the conflict, making it the bloodiest war in our history. However, it gave the country confidence to be a world leader. It was in April 1915, at the Second Battle of Ypres where one Canadian division lost over 6,000 men. Major John McCrae, who was serving as a doctor at the time, is thought to have composed a poem, “In Flanders Fields” during his time in this battle as a tribute to his friend, Lieutenant Alexis Helmer. The poem begins:
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
Why the Poppy?
The Scarlet Corn Poppies thrived in Europe under barren conditions. During the Napoleonic Wars that ravished the land, these poppies were the one plant that grew and covered the land. When the armies arrived in Europe to battle the Germans, soldiers were greeted by fields of poppies that flourished on bare land.
When McCrae used the poppy in his poem as a tribute to the sacrifice, he honored this plant that many almost saw as kind of a weed. In 1921, the Royal British Legion adopted the symbol for those who died in the war and in later conflicts. A few years later, a women’s guild introduced the white poppy as a lasting symbol of peace. Some people saw the white poppy undermining the significance of the red poppy, but these two ideas, honoring those who died and praying for peace, can coexist.
Red Poppies & National Celebrations
Remembrance Day is celebrated on November 11 to mark the end of World War I. Sometimes it is called Armistice Day or Poppy Day. Many other countries celebrate the day, including Australia, New Zealand, Great Britain, and the United States. World War I affected people worldwide, not just where the fighting was, but in countries that sent soldiers to the warfront.
Although the federal government recognizes Remembrance Day, each of the provinces treat the day much differently. In Manitoba, most businesses close from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. In other places, it’s up to the employer to give decide if they want to give a holiday. Whether you get to take the day off or not, you should remember those valiant men who fought for freedom in foreign wars. If you ever get a chance to attend the official ceremony at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, it’s a tribute that you’ll never forget.
Everyone can get behind the symbolism of the red poppy. The men who fought in the military deserve to be remembered for their service. Make a point to read “In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae. Hear the respect he had for those who served and died on the battlefield. Take a few moments on November 11 to remember the men who gave everything for Canada.
On March 20, people around the world will take steps to be happy and promote happiness for everyone. The initiative began in 2013, adopted by the UN. It was a campaign that began due to a consciousness that happiness should be a personal goal for everyone. It’s a basic human right. The American forefathers identified the pursuit of happiness as a right in the 18th century, and the UN finally got on board. In 2013, Ndaba Mandela and Chelsea Clinton, children of international political figures, kicked off the first celebration at the UN. In 2014, Pharrell Williams took over. Make sure to check out what Google does on March 20. Last year, Pharrell would randomly pop up in the search engine and dance.
Defining Happiness
Miriam-Webster defines happiness as “the state of being happy” or a “pleasurable or satisfying experience.” Synonyms include words such as pleasure, contentment, and well-being. These things are a bit subjective. When asking people how to measure happiness, scientists ask two questions:
How happy are you with your life as a whole?
How happy are you now?
Unfortunately, no one can really tell you how to be happy, but they also can’t tell you that you can’t be happy. Philosophers have tried for generations to find the secret to happiness, but it is an elusive concept that depends on so much more than just life status or money. Some people can be happy through circumstances that might crush another.
World Happiness Report
Scientists have tried to measure the happiness around the world. The first report was issued in 2013, In 2015, Canada ranked in the top 10 happiest countries in the world. Other countries that showed a great deal of happiness were Switzerland, Iceland, and Australia. These researchers did find that the global recession affected a country’s happiness score. Nicaragua and Ecuador showed increases in their happiness score, coinciding with their coming out of a recession. The World Happiness Report for 2016 will be released on March 16. It should be interesting to see where Canada places this year.
Get Involved
In 2015, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, “The pursuit of happiness is serious business.” The UN offers a few ideas on how to take action on International Day of Happiness:
Do what makes you happy
Spread happiness
Tell people about the day
Celebrate the day
#internationaldayofhappiness to find what others are sharing
At dayofhappiness.org, they recommend sharing the day with others. Happinessday.org is the official site of the initiative, and they have a number of resources and information promoting happiness in your own life and in the community. One campaign asks you to cheer on happy heroes and take part in the day. At Happiness International, they have a happiness planner. It’s offered free to help you select your action plan toward being well.
Make March 20 a day of happiness. It’s a Sunday, which means most people will be off work. Do something that creates satisfaction in your life. Just for one day. If you find you aren’t happy with your life in general, ask yourself what you could do to be happy. Use the spring to make one change. Take a class. Make a friend. Pick up a hobby that helps you relax when you’re not a work. Change your attitude. Only you know what is going to make the difference in your life. Only you can take the steps toward your goals.
Remember that your happiness is part of something bigger. Human connection is one thing that has been found to increase happiness and satisfaction in people’s lives. When you are connected to friends and family, you not only increase your own well-being, but theirs as well. Share positive messages to those you love to defeat the feeling of isolation that has become so predominate in today’s culture.
If you were to do a search for the phrase “how to be a success” you’d get thousands of suggestions. Hard work, dedication, enjoyment, and even confidence are all part of the equation in achieving success. One author suggests that success is subjective. What you believe to be success may be quite different than your neighbor, but in general, we can probably agree that success is an accomplishment of some goal or purpose in your life. Researchers constantly study the characteristics that go into making people successful. One study from Washington University in St. Louis found that a spouse was one key element in determining how successful an individual was.
Who You Spend Time With Influences You
Jim Rohn, popular motivational speaker, said, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Your mom probably told to you to be careful who your friends are. It’s no secret that friends and family members influence your character. The WU study demonstrated that the personality traits of a spouse can actually play a part in work performance. Researchers studied more than 5,000 married people over five years. These individuals were aged 19 to 89. About three-quarters of the couples both worked.
Researchers assessed five measures of personality:
Openness
Agreeableness
Conscientiousness
Extraversion
Neuroticism
The researchers also tracked the performance of the working spouses to measure occupational success by using salary increases, annual surveys, and self-reported job satisfaction. What they found was that those workers who scored high in occupational success typically had a spouse who was very conscientious. Interestingly, it didn’t matter whether the employee was male or female or whether both spouses worked or not.
Short-Term and Long-Term Relationship Patterns
It’s true that when someone has a bad day, they often bring that stress home, which causes tension between a married couple. Research has proven this, but the WU study tracks long-term influences of a spouse. The researchers in the WU study offer some suggestions about why a conscientious spouse can benefit your career in the long run.
Having a spouse with good habits encourages the other person to emulate those good habits, which leaks over into work.
A working spouse with a reliable partner isn’t trying to manage everything on their own.
When people work together to keep their life running smoothly, it makes it easier to balance work and home life.
You can’t continually come home and be upset from work and expect your spouse’s personality to make things better, but you can use your spouse’s enthusiasm and motivation to push yourself to change. Success, whether on the job or in a relationship, doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a long-term process in which you just have to keep moving forward. There are many elements to success and a conscientious spouse is just one of them.
Choose Your Spouse Wisely
Many studies have shown that who you marry is vital to your health or financial status. Your partner will definitely have an impact on who you are and will become. When choosing a romantic partner, you not only want someone who is agreeable and not narcissistic, but you also want someone who is conscientious. It’s just one of the ingredients you want to look for when choosing a partner.
If you’re already married, what can you do? You can’t change anyone except yourself. All you can do is to be more supportive and lead by example. Based on this study, when one person is more conscientious, the other person tends to step up and become more hard-working. You have to set the example. Will things change overnight? Maybe not. You and your spouse need to have the same goals and objectives.
Planning your wedding reception can often feel very complicated. While it is true that you need to start early and dedicate a good chunk of your time to putting together such a large event, most of what you need to know is quite simple and straightforward. A reception doesn’t need to have a lot of bells and whistles for guests to remember it for years to come. In fact, all you really need to do is consider a few general points to ensure your reception is as enjoyable as it is efficient.
The Seating Situation During The Reception
Perhaps the biggest headache couples deal with when planning a reception is the seating chart. Try as you might to put together a perfect arrangement, there are lots of little details you need to keep in mind. Keeping couples at the same table is a given, but you also want to avoid seating people together who don’t particularly get along. According to wedding experts, putting a lot of thought behind your seating arrangement is actually key to keeping the event light and fun for all.
Weddings can be tiring. If guests don’t have a clear idea of where they are supposed to sit from the moment they enter the venue, it can lead to some immediate frustration. Prominently displaying the seating information is one step. Having a lounge area for guests to relax in can also be key. In fact, the more options guests have for sitting and having a moment to catch their breath, the more likely it is your night will maintain a consistent and enjoyable flow.
The Entertainment
Setting the mood is important for any event. A reception is all about music. Whether you opt for a DJ or a live band, you need to make sure the entertainment is always on top of the mood in the room. Since you’ll be busy enjoying your big day, you want to trust in your entertainers to read the guests and see what tunes need to be played to lighten or calm the mood. This goes beyond getting people up to dance. From dinner being served to speeches being delivered, the music sets the tone.
Music is not the only way to entertain guests, of course. In some cases, there is a big enough gap between the wedding ceremony and reception that guests need to entertain themselves for a bit. If this is the case for your event, you should plan ahead in terms of entertainment. For outdoor weddings, this can mean bringing along group games that guests can engage with. For indoor events, think about how hiring an illusionist or artist can captivate the crowd while they wait.
The Refreshments
Finally, refreshments play a critical part in how guests perceive the reception. While you definitely have put time and effort into selecting the right caterer for your wedding, you also need to think about the pacing of the night. Guests are going to be hungry from the moment they leave the ceremony, so this means that appetizers and smaller plates should be provided as soon as people start arriving at the reception. The longer it takes for food and drink to become available, the more likely it is that you’ll be dealing with a tense group of people.
Though most of the planning process surrounding a wedding has to do with the reception itself, most couples forget that the basics are what truly make for a memorable experience. No matter what decorations or color theme you select to impress people on a visual level, you cannot overlook the importance of having an organized environment where entertainment and refreshments are available from the very start.
Decor is an essential component in a wedding. However, the decorations and floral arrangements you include are not the only thing to consider when it comes to the special details of your big day. There are some things that fall outside of the realm of both fashion and decor. Dubbed “wedding accessories” by industry experts in recent years, these are the little touches that help to connect you with your event and make it as memorable as possible on a personal scale. Use these suggestions to include the right accessories.
Decor & The Personal Items
A lot of time and energy is put into selecting the perfect wedding attire. From lavish dresses to tuxedos that look like they were plucked from an old film, couples want to look their best when walking down the aisle. However, what you wear is not solely about how you are perceived by others. The accessories you include can add a level of personal significance to your outfit. Some people include heirloom accessories or jewelry in order to feel connected to their families during this important milestone.
The accessories don’t need to be traditional accessories that are worn, either. Some couples purchase special hangers for their wedding garments in order to avoid wrinkles and creases. A personalized set of hangers can be a cute little feature that helps you feel excited for this new chapter in your life.
The Guest Book
The guest book at your wedding is another item that falls outside of the traditional decor category and more into the realm of accessories. Though many opt for an actual book for guests to sign, there are endless ways to get creative. Including an old typewriter and a long sheet of paper is a neat alternative that allows guests the chance to type out their messages of luck and love. A video guest book is also a popular option, with people recording their messages in a “confessional” style made popular on reality television.
The Party Members
Giving the members of your wedding party fun accessories can also be a great way to add another dimension of style to your event. If you have a ring bearer and flower girl, then consider hanging little signs on them with humorous messages. A flower girl with a sign that reads “follow the petals, follow the love” or a similar phrase can get guests to deliver some audible “awws” from the very start.
Similarly, you might want to give accessories to all of your bridesmaids or groomsmen as a way of thanking them for being involved. Though few people will actually see this accessory, custom socks can be a fantastic gift. Whether you personalize each pair to the person or order bulk socks with the same message, the people in your party will definitely want to wear them during the event.
The Little Touches With Decor
Plenty of couples have wedding themes these days. Whether your event is rustic, modern, or classic, be sure that any accessories you include in your big day complement the overall aesthetic. If you’re having a wedding meant to invoke the roaring parties of the 1920s, consider placement cards that boast a bold and vintage font that perfectly captures the bygone era. This is your chance to be as creative as possible, so think outside the box and find fun ways to put finishing touches on your wedding’s look.
Though the term itself is something of a new concept, wedding accessories have long been a part of the planning process. Before you finish putting together the details of your big day, think about how a couple of small accessories can help to add a delicious level of personal texture to the experience.
Maybe you’ve heard of feng shui – creating balance with the natural world in one’s indoor spaces. Tied to some important Chinese cultural beliefs, this fascinating art is a few thousand years old. But how exactly does it work? Once you understand the basics, feng shui can be a little easier to grasp. This quick guide introduces its concepts and their applications.
Taoist Principles Behind Feng Shui
New York architect Anjie Cho explains feng shui’s roots. The term comes from two separate Chinese words — “feng” means wind and “shui” means water. It’s related to Tao, a principle underlying all creation and calling for harmony with its natural order.
Tao is an extensive philosophy, but some of its basics play out in feng shui. Qi, pronounced as “chi,” is a fundamental life energy flowing through the world. You may have heard of yin and yang – these refer to complementary opposite forces that must remain in balance. And then there’s Wu Xing, a cycle in which life moves through five states: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water.
With Wu Xing, creative or destructive effects occur based on the order in which the cycle moves. The Chinese Buddhist Encyclopedia details how this works. Starting with wood, one state helps create the next. Wood can fuel a fire, which can produce ashes to create earth, and so on. But there’s also a controlling or suppressive cycle. Fire melts metal, metal cuts wood, and wood grows through earth. As this cycle continues, earth hems in water, which in turn extinguishes fire.
How the Five Elements Work
In another piece for The Spruce, Cho further describes how the five states work in feng shui. These states have physical properties, but they also represent intangible things. Earth, for instance, stands for nourishment, self-care, and boundaries. These states also have their own sets of colors:
Fire: red and orange
Earth: yellow and neutral earth tones
Metal: gray and silver
Water: black, darker gray, and navy
Wood: green and light blue tones
Shapes can also represent these element states. Fire shapes are very angular – usually triangles. Squares symbolize earth. Circles and round shapes recall the metal element. Irregular and wavy shapes point to water – like waves in a pond or lake. Tall shapes and columns represent wood, like the trunks of trees.
Thoughtful choices can help bring needed elements into your spaces. Sometimes, these choices are obvious. You could add a wooden desk and houseplants as wood elements in a home office. But sometimes, an item symbolizes one of the elements. Maybe you don’t have a brick oven in your kitchen, but your stove represents fire just the same. You shouldn’t bring a pile of dirt into your living room, but a square yellow rug can stand in for earth.
Positions in Feng Shui
Cho adds that placement makes a huge difference in feng shui. There’s the commanding position – the spot in each room located the farthest from the door. The commanding position is not in direct line with the door, but you can still see the door itself. It’s where you’d place objects that you use the most – the stove in your kitchen, your desk in a home office, and so forth.
Feng shui also uses a map to locate eight key areas in a space. This map, called a bagua, assigns each area to an aspect of life. The central southern area, for example, is red and represents one’s fame and reputation. There’s also a central area that stands for the individual – specifically, wellness and health.
More Than Interior Design
Feng shui comes from Taoist philosophies: important ideas that helped shape Chinese culture. While using feng shui can create beautiful interior spaces, the central goal is achieving balance with nature. Today’s practitioners have adapted its ancient concepts to modern interiors, building design, and lifestyles.
When you die, your debts don’t follow you beyond the grave. But that doesn’t mean that you can ignore them – at least not in Canada, anyway. Not all liabilities are the same, so you need to understand how Canadian law treats different types of debt. This vital understanding can help you make wise choices while planning for your family’s future.
Secured and Unsecured Debt
Most debt falls into one of two categories – secured or unsecured. Secured debt involves assets used as collateral, as Investopedia explains. Should the borrower default, the lender can seize the asset to help pay for the loan. Mortgages and auto loans are the two most common kinds of secured debt.
Most consumer debt, like credit cards or personal loans, is unsecured. This type doesn’t rely on collateral, so it tends to carry higher interest rates. Certain monthly expenses are also unsecured debts. Some examples include medical bills, revolving store credit, and gym memberships.
Unpaid Debts and Your Estate
Your estate contains both your assets and liabilities. Think of it this way: Anything you own is an asset, and anything you owe is a liability. Most creditors will still want repayment after you die, and they’ll hit up your estate to collect.
Secured or unsecured, your estate must pay debts before your heirs receive anything. Statistics from StatCan, HuffPost Canada, and CBC News may put things into perspective:
Nearly 68% of Canadians own their homes.
The average home price is currently $586,000.
The average Canadian owes $73,552 in debt.
The order in which debts are paid can vary. Home mortgages usually get priority, followed by auto loans and other secured debt. Unsecured debt is next on the list. Depending on how much you owe, your debts could total more than the value of your estate, in which case, under Canadian law, your estate is either declared insolvent or placed into bankruptcy. Mondaq explains that these estates must pay funeral expenses first. Estate administrative costs are next, followed by government debts and other remaining liabilities.
Debts and Your Family
Creditors can make claims against your estate, but what happens when there’s nothing left to pay? Can they come after your family for payment? Not in most cases, as Credit Canada explains. If you’re the sole borrower with no cosigners, your creditors are out of luck if your estate can’t pay them. Unscrupulous creditors may still try to collect anyway – they know the law but still want their money. Your family can file complaints with their provincial or territorial consumer affairs office. The national Office of Consumer Affairs offers tips for filing complaints.
People who cosign or jointly apply for debt are still on the hook for repayment if the primary borrower dies. Some creditors also hold supplementary cardholders responsible for payment. If you’re worried about lingering debt, you can give your heirs “living inheritances” while you’re still alive. Global News clarifies that Canada does not tax either inheritances or gifts. Capital gains taxes may apply if you’re gifting an asset and its value grows.
A Quick Word About Student Loans
Student loans are technically unsecured debt, but they’re treated a little differently. Employment and Social Development Canada explains that federal student loans are forgiven upon a borrower’s death. With private student loans, it’s a different story. Loans Canada reveals that private lenders have no legal obligation to forgive their loans after a borrower dies. While some do discharge these loans, others may make claims against your estate.
Nothing in our world is certain except death and taxes, quipped American statesman Benjamin Franklin. Understanding your debt and having a solid estate plan can prevent your family from being saddled with burdens after you’re gone.
While the majority of Canadians may not ever think about the word caste, for some people, it is a facet of life that they can’t escape even after immigrating to Canada. Caste discrimination is a form of oppression that activists in the Indian subcontinent and the Himalayas have fought against for decades. Unfortunately, with thousands of years of cultural normalcy, this form of discrimination is still deeply embedded in the psyches of people even after they leave their home countries. Read on to learn about how caste discrimination impacts the quality of life for Canadians.
What Is Caste Discrimination?
Caste discrimination is a form of oppression based on the perception of a person’s caste. That oppression can include violating a person’s economic, social, political, cultural, or individual rights. In the Indian subcontinent and parts of the Himalayas, people divided society into different groups based on caste, equating to a type of social order that determines what people are allowed to do for work, where they are allowed to go, and who they are allowed to interact with.
Within the traditional caste system, caste boundaries are fixed, meaning that, no matter what someone does in their life, neither they nor their descendants can escape the caste they are born into. The people who experience caste discrimination are those who others label as being of the lowest castes. In the past, some Hindus referred to this group as Untouchables. Today, activists from these groups call themselves Dalits and fight for full rights and acknowledgment under the law.
Does It Happen in Canada?
Caste discrimination is illegal, but it still happens, not only in India and Nepal but also in Canada. In March 2023, a taxi driver, Manoj Bhangu, who had immigrated from Punjab, India, received a settlement order from the British Columbia Human Rights Tribunal after experiencing caste discrimination at a work party. Two men, also originally from Punjab, used a caste-based slur against him, and the altercation turned physical. The Tribunal ruled that Mr. Bhangu deserved more than $9,000 in compensation and that the brothers, Inderjit and Avninder Dhillon, would have to pay up for the harm they caused.
While this case garnered national media attention, many other instances of caste discrimination in Canada continue unabated. People who come from Dalit backgrounds often get denied housing, promotions, and networking opportunities when upper-caste Hindus control those opportunities. Nor is Canada the only place where people have to face this kind of oppression. It also happens in the U.S., Australia, and the U.K. In 2023, Seattle, Washington, was the first city to put a law on the books that bans caste discrimination.
How Can People Seek Justice?
Seeking justice isn’t easy for people who face caste discrimination in Canada, but one way to do so is by pursuing a case in front of a tribunal or the courts. Although caste is not an inherent social category in Canada, it can still count as a protected characteristic.
In Canada, all people have a right to freedom from discrimination. There are many characteristics that the law considers protected under this legal structure, including the following:
Race
Gender
Place of origin
Ethnicity
Religion
Disability
The list of protected characteristics is extensive, which makes it possible for people who experience discrimination to fight for justice within the legal structure. Since caste is not something that people choose but something that is forced upon them by others, it results in a protected characteristic similar to place of origin, ancestry, and race.
Canadians who experience caste discrimination are not taking it lightly. Like Mr. Bhangu, they are fighting for their right to freedom and safety in their new home.
When it comes to planning the perfect wedding, every detail matters. From asking loved ones to save the date to deciding on a date, you want the nuptials of your dreams. While there are many important things to cover, most would agree the reception menu is a big deal. The reception is one of the things people anticipate most about a wedding, and yours is no exception. Finding the right caterer is a detail that requires your care and consideration. Here are some things engaged Canadian couples should know.
Choosing the Event Type
You know you’re getting married, and you certainly want to have a reception. Have you thought about the type of event you’re having? Will it be a smaller affair with food served family-style per table? Will you have a buffet-style service where guests get their food and return to their seats to eat? Maybe you want to serve a grand meal made of several small courses featuring gourmet dishes and ingredients. Before you can choose a caterer, you need to have an idea of the type of reception you’re envisioning. The right caterer will be able to execute your vision splendidly.
Determining a Budget With A Caterer
Just as casual restaurants are less expensive than fine dining establishments, casual catering is generally less expensive than gourmet or exotic catering. How much can you afford to spend on food? It’s important to have a realistic budget based on what you want. Fancier dishes often require more expensive ingredients and more complicated cooking techniques. Look for a caterer that can provide the menu you want at a price you can afford. A good caterer can also explore cost-saving options.
Prioritizing Based on the Food
Many couples will focus on booking a venue first and then check to see if that venue can accommodate their reception plans. It might be better to start with the caterer. Most professionals will have knowledge about local venues that “cater” best to their food preparation and service. If your caterer and menu require food to be cooked at the venue, you’ll want a place with a full kitchen that can accommodate cooking for a crowd. If not, then you’ll need a provider who can cook at another location and bring equipment to keep dishes at the proper temperature.
Accommodating Special Diets With A Caterer
Between food intolerances, dietary restrictions, and special lifestyles, it’s important to know if the caterer can accommodate special diets. Imagine your bestie has agreed to be a maid of honor or best man, but due to their lactose intolerance, they won’t be able to eat much of what’s served. Think about the people who will be celebrating with you, including vegetarians, vegans, pescatarians, and people who avoid certain foods for health or religious reasons. Many caterers can provide multiple options to make sure everyone enjoys a full meal.
Confirming What Is Covered
It’s important to have a clear understanding of what’s included with a caterer’s services. Some caterers only provide the food, but it’s up to you or the venue to provide servers, bartenders, and other personnel. You may have other wedding vendors such as a planner, a photographer, or DJ working the event. Will the catering include meals for those vendors? Some wedding chefs also provide tools and equipment needed to serve and dispose of food. Don’t assume when it comes to what’s included. Ask lots of questions and get answers before agreeing to a contract.
Your special day is about so much more than the food, but your menu is an important part of the event. Weddings should be joyous affairs, but hiring the wrong caterer or ignoring certain food-related details can negatively impact your special occasion. Consider these important details when planning your wedding eats.
Can you name a Canadian wedding tradition off top of your head? Over the years, countless wedding traditions have come and gone. One of the biggest challenges you may face while planning your nuptials is knowing which practices to include. For many couples, incorporating local or historical rituals can be a perfect way to feel connected to your heritage. Take a moment to review these classic Canadian wedding traditions and see which might be a perfect fit for your upcoming celebrations.
Taking Time for Tea
If you’re planning on having a smaller guest list for your wedding, you may be looking for a way to include friends and associates who didn’t make the cut. One option to consider is the tradition of hosting a trousseau tea gathering. Essentially, this is a small party held a few days before the wedding where neighbors, coworkers, and anyone not invited to the official event can come together to celebrate the couple. Instead of serving a full meal, guests are treated to tea, baked goods, and other small snacks. This is a lovely way to make everyone feel included.
Dancing in Silly Socks
In Ontario, one French-Canadian ritual that has remained consistently popular at weddings over the years is the sock dance. Originally, this tradition involved the unwed older siblings of the bride and groom. During the reception, the brothers and sisters would take to the dance floor and don silly knee-high socks. The siblings would then dance for the guests, who would throw money at their feet. The siblings would then collect the money and deliver it to the happy couple. Nowadays, it is common for both married and unwed siblings to take part in this fun and entertaining tradition.
Creating a Convoy
Another French-Canadian tradition to consider for your big day is the wedding train. On the morning of the wedding, the family members and close friends of the couple gather together and create a convoy of cars. The group then drives their vehicles around the neighborhood where the couple is getting ready and makes as much noise as possible by honking their horns and shouting out the windows. The idea is to create an air of celebration to let everyone know that the wedding day has arrived. The noisy convoy will then travel from the neighborhood to the wedding venue.
Raising Funds
Throwing a wedding can easily cost a small fortune. One way that Canadian couples handle their event expenses is by hosting a fundraising social. This classic tradition is often referred to as a stag and doe party and is a way for the couple to raise money for their nuptials. Guests will purchase tickets to the party and be given food, drink, and entertainment. Anyone can buy a ticket, meaning the event is not limited to only those who will be invited to the official wedding. Some couples will even auction off exciting prizes to raise additional funds.
An Old Tradition of Putting a Penny in the Shoe
Plenty of older wedding traditions trace their origins back to the idea of encouraging good luck or warding off evil spirits. One popular custom that follows this concept is for the bride to put a penny in her shoe on the day of her wedding. By doing this, the bride is encouraging a future of prosperity and happiness with her partner. In recent years, this practice has not been limited to the bride. Anyone who is looking to bestow good energy and wealth upon the couple can add a coin to their own shoes.
Finding the Best Tradition for Your Wedding
Incorporating the right wedding traditions into your big day can be both a fun and challenging process. By looking at local traditions, you can guarantee your heritage is a foundational part of the event. Take your time to learn more about different Canadian customs and see which classic rituals are worth including in your celebrations.
Beginning in November, some people sport red poppies on their lapels to honor those who died in military conflicts. Americans wear red poppies in May for the same reason. White poppies are for those who passed away in service, but not during a conflict. On November 11, we celebrate Remembrance Day. Some churches have special services. If you have family members who passed away during the war, you may go out to their grave and honor them. Canada recognizes Remembrance Day as a national holiday, but for many, it’s just another day off work. Learn more about the importance of this day and why we wear red poppies.
World War I
It was the British Empire that chose to take Canada into the First World War. Nearly 61,000 Canadians died in the conflict, making it the bloodiest war in our history. However, it gave the country confidence to be a world leader. It was in April 1915, at the Second Battle of Ypres where one Canadian division lost over 6,000 men. Major John McCrae, who was serving as a doctor at the time, is thought to have composed a poem, “In Flanders Fields” during his time in this battle as a tribute to his friend, Lieutenant Alexis Helmer. The poem begins:
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
Why the Poppy?
The Scarlet Corn Poppies thrived in Europe under barren conditions. During the Napoleonic Wars that ravished the land, these poppies were the one plant that grew and covered the land. When the armies arrived in Europe to battle the Germans, soldiers were greeted by fields of poppies that flourished on bare land.
When McCrae used the poppy in his poem as a tribute to the sacrifice, he honored this plant that many almost saw as kind of a weed. In 1921, the Royal British Legion adopted the symbol for those who died in the war and in later conflicts. A few years later, a women’s guild introduced the white poppy as a lasting symbol of peace. Some people saw the white poppy undermining the significance of the red poppy, but these two ideas, honoring those who died and praying for peace, can coexist.
Red Poppies & National Celebrations
Remembrance Day is celebrated on November 11 to mark the end of World War I. Sometimes it is called Armistice Day or Poppy Day. Many other countries celebrate the day, including Australia, New Zealand, Great Britain, and the United States. World War I affected people worldwide, not just where the fighting was, but in countries that sent soldiers to the warfront.
Although the federal government recognizes Remembrance Day, each of the provinces treat the day much differently. In Manitoba, most businesses close from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. In other places, it’s up to the employer to give decide if they want to give a holiday. Whether you get to take the day off or not, you should remember those valiant men who fought for freedom in foreign wars. If you ever get a chance to attend the official ceremony at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, it’s a tribute that you’ll never forget.
Everyone can get behind the symbolism of the red poppy. The men who fought in the military deserve to be remembered for their service. Make a point to read “In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae. Hear the respect he had for those who served and died on the battlefield. Take a few moments on November 11 to remember the men who gave everything for Canada.
On March 20, people around the world will take steps to be happy and promote happiness for everyone. The initiative began in 2013, adopted by the UN. It was a campaign that began due to a consciousness that happiness should be a personal goal for everyone. It’s a basic human right. The American forefathers identified the pursuit of happiness as a right in the 18th century, and the UN finally got on board. In 2013, Ndaba Mandela and Chelsea Clinton, children of international political figures, kicked off the first celebration at the UN. In 2014, Pharrell Williams took over. Make sure to check out what Google does on March 20. Last year, Pharrell would randomly pop up in the search engine and dance.
Defining Happiness
Miriam-Webster defines happiness as “the state of being happy” or a “pleasurable or satisfying experience.” Synonyms include words such as pleasure, contentment, and well-being. These things are a bit subjective. When asking people how to measure happiness, scientists ask two questions:
How happy are you with your life as a whole?
How happy are you now?
Unfortunately, no one can really tell you how to be happy, but they also can’t tell you that you can’t be happy. Philosophers have tried for generations to find the secret to happiness, but it is an elusive concept that depends on so much more than just life status or money. Some people can be happy through circumstances that might crush another.
World Happiness Report
Scientists have tried to measure the happiness around the world. The first report was issued in 2013, In 2015, Canada ranked in the top 10 happiest countries in the world. Other countries that showed a great deal of happiness were Switzerland, Iceland, and Australia. These researchers did find that the global recession affected a country’s happiness score. Nicaragua and Ecuador showed increases in their happiness score, coinciding with their coming out of a recession. The World Happiness Report for 2016 will be released on March 16. It should be interesting to see where Canada places this year.
Get Involved
In 2015, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, “The pursuit of happiness is serious business.” The UN offers a few ideas on how to take action on International Day of Happiness:
Do what makes you happy
Spread happiness
Tell people about the day
Celebrate the day
#internationaldayofhappiness to find what others are sharing
At dayofhappiness.org, they recommend sharing the day with others. Happinessday.org is the official site of the initiative, and they have a number of resources and information promoting happiness in your own life and in the community. One campaign asks you to cheer on happy heroes and take part in the day. At Happiness International, they have a happiness planner. It’s offered free to help you select your action plan toward being well.
Make March 20 a day of happiness. It’s a Sunday, which means most people will be off work. Do something that creates satisfaction in your life. Just for one day. If you find you aren’t happy with your life in general, ask yourself what you could do to be happy. Use the spring to make one change. Take a class. Make a friend. Pick up a hobby that helps you relax when you’re not a work. Change your attitude. Only you know what is going to make the difference in your life. Only you can take the steps toward your goals.
Remember that your happiness is part of something bigger. Human connection is one thing that has been found to increase happiness and satisfaction in people’s lives. When you are connected to friends and family, you not only increase your own well-being, but theirs as well. Share positive messages to those you love to defeat the feeling of isolation that has become so predominate in today’s culture.
If you were to do a search for the phrase “how to be a success” you’d get thousands of suggestions. Hard work, dedication, enjoyment, and even confidence are all part of the equation in achieving success. One author suggests that success is subjective. What you believe to be success may be quite different than your neighbor, but in general, we can probably agree that success is an accomplishment of some goal or purpose in your life. Researchers constantly study the characteristics that go into making people successful. One study from Washington University in St. Louis found that a spouse was one key element in determining how successful an individual was.
Who You Spend Time With Influences You
Jim Rohn, popular motivational speaker, said, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Your mom probably told to you to be careful who your friends are. It’s no secret that friends and family members influence your character. The WU study demonstrated that the personality traits of a spouse can actually play a part in work performance. Researchers studied more than 5,000 married people over five years. These individuals were aged 19 to 89. About three-quarters of the couples both worked.
Researchers assessed five measures of personality:
Openness
Agreeableness
Conscientiousness
Extraversion
Neuroticism
The researchers also tracked the performance of the working spouses to measure occupational success by using salary increases, annual surveys, and self-reported job satisfaction. What they found was that those workers who scored high in occupational success typically had a spouse who was very conscientious. Interestingly, it didn’t matter whether the employee was male or female or whether both spouses worked or not.
Short-Term and Long-Term Relationship Patterns
It’s true that when someone has a bad day, they often bring that stress home, which causes tension between a married couple. Research has proven this, but the WU study tracks long-term influences of a spouse. The researchers in the WU study offer some suggestions about why a conscientious spouse can benefit your career in the long run.
Having a spouse with good habits encourages the other person to emulate those good habits, which leaks over into work.
A working spouse with a reliable partner isn’t trying to manage everything on their own.
When people work together to keep their life running smoothly, it makes it easier to balance work and home life.
You can’t continually come home and be upset from work and expect your spouse’s personality to make things better, but you can use your spouse’s enthusiasm and motivation to push yourself to change. Success, whether on the job or in a relationship, doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a long-term process in which you just have to keep moving forward. There are many elements to success and a conscientious spouse is just one of them.
Choose Your Spouse Wisely
Many studies have shown that who you marry is vital to your health or financial status. Your partner will definitely have an impact on who you are and will become. When choosing a romantic partner, you not only want someone who is agreeable and not narcissistic, but you also want someone who is conscientious. It’s just one of the ingredients you want to look for when choosing a partner.
If you’re already married, what can you do? You can’t change anyone except yourself. All you can do is to be more supportive and lead by example. Based on this study, when one person is more conscientious, the other person tends to step up and become more hard-working. You have to set the example. Will things change overnight? Maybe not. You and your spouse need to have the same goals and objectives.
Planning your wedding reception can often feel very complicated. While it is true that you need to start early and dedicate a good chunk of your time to putting together such a large event, most of what you need to know is quite simple and straightforward. A reception doesn’t need to have a lot of bells and whistles for guests to remember it for years to come. In fact, all you really need to do is consider a few general points to ensure your reception is as enjoyable as it is efficient.
The Seating Situation During The Reception
Perhaps the biggest headache couples deal with when planning a reception is the seating chart. Try as you might to put together a perfect arrangement, there are lots of little details you need to keep in mind. Keeping couples at the same table is a given, but you also want to avoid seating people together who don’t particularly get along. According to wedding experts, putting a lot of thought behind your seating arrangement is actually key to keeping the event light and fun for all.
Weddings can be tiring. If guests don’t have a clear idea of where they are supposed to sit from the moment they enter the venue, it can lead to some immediate frustration. Prominently displaying the seating information is one step. Having a lounge area for guests to relax in can also be key. In fact, the more options guests have for sitting and having a moment to catch their breath, the more likely it is your night will maintain a consistent and enjoyable flow.
The Entertainment
Setting the mood is important for any event. A reception is all about music. Whether you opt for a DJ or a live band, you need to make sure the entertainment is always on top of the mood in the room. Since you’ll be busy enjoying your big day, you want to trust in your entertainers to read the guests and see what tunes need to be played to lighten or calm the mood. This goes beyond getting people up to dance. From dinner being served to speeches being delivered, the music sets the tone.
Music is not the only way to entertain guests, of course. In some cases, there is a big enough gap between the wedding ceremony and reception that guests need to entertain themselves for a bit. If this is the case for your event, you should plan ahead in terms of entertainment. For outdoor weddings, this can mean bringing along group games that guests can engage with. For indoor events, think about how hiring an illusionist or artist can captivate the crowd while they wait.
The Refreshments
Finally, refreshments play a critical part in how guests perceive the reception. While you definitely have put time and effort into selecting the right caterer for your wedding, you also need to think about the pacing of the night. Guests are going to be hungry from the moment they leave the ceremony, so this means that appetizers and smaller plates should be provided as soon as people start arriving at the reception. The longer it takes for food and drink to become available, the more likely it is that you’ll be dealing with a tense group of people.
Though most of the planning process surrounding a wedding has to do with the reception itself, most couples forget that the basics are what truly make for a memorable experience. No matter what decorations or color theme you select to impress people on a visual level, you cannot overlook the importance of having an organized environment where entertainment and refreshments are available from the very start.
Decor is an essential component in a wedding. However, the decorations and floral arrangements you include are not the only thing to consider when it comes to the special details of your big day. There are some things that fall outside of the realm of both fashion and decor. Dubbed “wedding accessories” by industry experts in recent years, these are the little touches that help to connect you with your event and make it as memorable as possible on a personal scale. Use these suggestions to include the right accessories.
Decor & The Personal Items
A lot of time and energy is put into selecting the perfect wedding attire. From lavish dresses to tuxedos that look like they were plucked from an old film, couples want to look their best when walking down the aisle. However, what you wear is not solely about how you are perceived by others. The accessories you include can add a level of personal significance to your outfit. Some people include heirloom accessories or jewelry in order to feel connected to their families during this important milestone.
The accessories don’t need to be traditional accessories that are worn, either. Some couples purchase special hangers for their wedding garments in order to avoid wrinkles and creases. A personalized set of hangers can be a cute little feature that helps you feel excited for this new chapter in your life.
The Guest Book
The guest book at your wedding is another item that falls outside of the traditional decor category and more into the realm of accessories. Though many opt for an actual book for guests to sign, there are endless ways to get creative. Including an old typewriter and a long sheet of paper is a neat alternative that allows guests the chance to type out their messages of luck and love. A video guest book is also a popular option, with people recording their messages in a “confessional” style made popular on reality television.
The Party Members
Giving the members of your wedding party fun accessories can also be a great way to add another dimension of style to your event. If you have a ring bearer and flower girl, then consider hanging little signs on them with humorous messages. A flower girl with a sign that reads “follow the petals, follow the love” or a similar phrase can get guests to deliver some audible “awws” from the very start.
Similarly, you might want to give accessories to all of your bridesmaids or groomsmen as a way of thanking them for being involved. Though few people will actually see this accessory, custom socks can be a fantastic gift. Whether you personalize each pair to the person or order bulk socks with the same message, the people in your party will definitely want to wear them during the event.
The Little Touches With Decor
Plenty of couples have wedding themes these days. Whether your event is rustic, modern, or classic, be sure that any accessories you include in your big day complement the overall aesthetic. If you’re having a wedding meant to invoke the roaring parties of the 1920s, consider placement cards that boast a bold and vintage font that perfectly captures the bygone era. This is your chance to be as creative as possible, so think outside the box and find fun ways to put finishing touches on your wedding’s look.
Though the term itself is something of a new concept, wedding accessories have long been a part of the planning process. Before you finish putting together the details of your big day, think about how a couple of small accessories can help to add a delicious level of personal texture to the experience.
Maybe you’ve heard of feng shui – creating balance with the natural world in one’s indoor spaces. Tied to some important Chinese cultural beliefs, this fascinating art is a few thousand years old. But how exactly does it work? Once you understand the basics, feng shui can be a little easier to grasp. This quick guide introduces its concepts and their applications.
Taoist Principles Behind Feng Shui
New York architect Anjie Cho explains feng shui’s roots. The term comes from two separate Chinese words — “feng” means wind and “shui” means water. It’s related to Tao, a principle underlying all creation and calling for harmony with its natural order.
Tao is an extensive philosophy, but some of its basics play out in feng shui. Qi, pronounced as “chi,” is a fundamental life energy flowing through the world. You may have heard of yin and yang – these refer to complementary opposite forces that must remain in balance. And then there’s Wu Xing, a cycle in which life moves through five states: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water.
With Wu Xing, creative or destructive effects occur based on the order in which the cycle moves. The Chinese Buddhist Encyclopedia details how this works. Starting with wood, one state helps create the next. Wood can fuel a fire, which can produce ashes to create earth, and so on. But there’s also a controlling or suppressive cycle. Fire melts metal, metal cuts wood, and wood grows through earth. As this cycle continues, earth hems in water, which in turn extinguishes fire.
How the Five Elements Work
In another piece for The Spruce, Cho further describes how the five states work in feng shui. These states have physical properties, but they also represent intangible things. Earth, for instance, stands for nourishment, self-care, and boundaries. These states also have their own sets of colors:
Fire: red and orange
Earth: yellow and neutral earth tones
Metal: gray and silver
Water: black, darker gray, and navy
Wood: green and light blue tones
Shapes can also represent these element states. Fire shapes are very angular – usually triangles. Squares symbolize earth. Circles and round shapes recall the metal element. Irregular and wavy shapes point to water – like waves in a pond or lake. Tall shapes and columns represent wood, like the trunks of trees.
Thoughtful choices can help bring needed elements into your spaces. Sometimes, these choices are obvious. You could add a wooden desk and houseplants as wood elements in a home office. But sometimes, an item symbolizes one of the elements. Maybe you don’t have a brick oven in your kitchen, but your stove represents fire just the same. You shouldn’t bring a pile of dirt into your living room, but a square yellow rug can stand in for earth.
Positions in Feng Shui
Cho adds that placement makes a huge difference in feng shui. There’s the commanding position – the spot in each room located the farthest from the door. The commanding position is not in direct line with the door, but you can still see the door itself. It’s where you’d place objects that you use the most – the stove in your kitchen, your desk in a home office, and so forth.
Feng shui also uses a map to locate eight key areas in a space. This map, called a bagua, assigns each area to an aspect of life. The central southern area, for example, is red and represents one’s fame and reputation. There’s also a central area that stands for the individual – specifically, wellness and health.
More Than Interior Design
Feng shui comes from Taoist philosophies: important ideas that helped shape Chinese culture. While using feng shui can create beautiful interior spaces, the central goal is achieving balance with nature. Today’s practitioners have adapted its ancient concepts to modern interiors, building design, and lifestyles.
When you die, your debts don’t follow you beyond the grave. But that doesn’t mean that you can ignore them – at least not in Canada, anyway. Not all liabilities are the same, so you need to understand how Canadian law treats different types of debt. This vital understanding can help you make wise choices while planning for your family’s future.
Secured and Unsecured Debt
Most debt falls into one of two categories – secured or unsecured. Secured debt involves assets used as collateral, as Investopedia explains. Should the borrower default, the lender can seize the asset to help pay for the loan. Mortgages and auto loans are the two most common kinds of secured debt.
Most consumer debt, like credit cards or personal loans, is unsecured. This type doesn’t rely on collateral, so it tends to carry higher interest rates. Certain monthly expenses are also unsecured debts. Some examples include medical bills, revolving store credit, and gym memberships.
Unpaid Debts and Your Estate
Your estate contains both your assets and liabilities. Think of it this way: Anything you own is an asset, and anything you owe is a liability. Most creditors will still want repayment after you die, and they’ll hit up your estate to collect.
Secured or unsecured, your estate must pay debts before your heirs receive anything. Statistics from StatCan, HuffPost Canada, and CBC News may put things into perspective:
Nearly 68% of Canadians own their homes.
The average home price is currently $586,000.
The average Canadian owes $73,552 in debt.
The order in which debts are paid can vary. Home mortgages usually get priority, followed by auto loans and other secured debt. Unsecured debt is next on the list. Depending on how much you owe, your debts could total more than the value of your estate, in which case, under Canadian law, your estate is either declared insolvent or placed into bankruptcy. Mondaq explains that these estates must pay funeral expenses first. Estate administrative costs are next, followed by government debts and other remaining liabilities.
Debts and Your Family
Creditors can make claims against your estate, but what happens when there’s nothing left to pay? Can they come after your family for payment? Not in most cases, as Credit Canada explains. If you’re the sole borrower with no cosigners, your creditors are out of luck if your estate can’t pay them. Unscrupulous creditors may still try to collect anyway – they know the law but still want their money. Your family can file complaints with their provincial or territorial consumer affairs office. The national Office of Consumer Affairs offers tips for filing complaints.
People who cosign or jointly apply for debt are still on the hook for repayment if the primary borrower dies. Some creditors also hold supplementary cardholders responsible for payment. If you’re worried about lingering debt, you can give your heirs “living inheritances” while you’re still alive. Global News clarifies that Canada does not tax either inheritances or gifts. Capital gains taxes may apply if you’re gifting an asset and its value grows.
A Quick Word About Student Loans
Student loans are technically unsecured debt, but they’re treated a little differently. Employment and Social Development Canada explains that federal student loans are forgiven upon a borrower’s death. With private student loans, it’s a different story. Loans Canada reveals that private lenders have no legal obligation to forgive their loans after a borrower dies. While some do discharge these loans, others may make claims against your estate.
Nothing in our world is certain except death and taxes, quipped American statesman Benjamin Franklin. Understanding your debt and having a solid estate plan can prevent your family from being saddled with burdens after you’re gone.
While the majority of Canadians may not ever think about the word caste, for some people, it is a facet of life that they can’t escape even after immigrating to Canada. Caste discrimination is a form of oppression that activists in the Indian subcontinent and the Himalayas have fought against for decades. Unfortunately, with thousands of years of cultural normalcy, this form of discrimination is still deeply embedded in the psyches of people even after they leave their home countries. Read on to learn about how caste discrimination impacts the quality of life for Canadians.
What Is Caste Discrimination?
Caste discrimination is a form of oppression based on the perception of a person’s caste. That oppression can include violating a person’s economic, social, political, cultural, or individual rights. In the Indian subcontinent and parts of the Himalayas, people divided society into different groups based on caste, equating to a type of social order that determines what people are allowed to do for work, where they are allowed to go, and who they are allowed to interact with.
Within the traditional caste system, caste boundaries are fixed, meaning that, no matter what someone does in their life, neither they nor their descendants can escape the caste they are born into. The people who experience caste discrimination are those who others label as being of the lowest castes. In the past, some Hindus referred to this group as Untouchables. Today, activists from these groups call themselves Dalits and fight for full rights and acknowledgment under the law.
Does It Happen in Canada?
Caste discrimination is illegal, but it still happens, not only in India and Nepal but also in Canada. In March 2023, a taxi driver, Manoj Bhangu, who had immigrated from Punjab, India, received a settlement order from the British Columbia Human Rights Tribunal after experiencing caste discrimination at a work party. Two men, also originally from Punjab, used a caste-based slur against him, and the altercation turned physical. The Tribunal ruled that Mr. Bhangu deserved more than $9,000 in compensation and that the brothers, Inderjit and Avninder Dhillon, would have to pay up for the harm they caused.
While this case garnered national media attention, many other instances of caste discrimination in Canada continue unabated. People who come from Dalit backgrounds often get denied housing, promotions, and networking opportunities when upper-caste Hindus control those opportunities. Nor is Canada the only place where people have to face this kind of oppression. It also happens in the U.S., Australia, and the U.K. In 2023, Seattle, Washington, was the first city to put a law on the books that bans caste discrimination.
How Can People Seek Justice?
Seeking justice isn’t easy for people who face caste discrimination in Canada, but one way to do so is by pursuing a case in front of a tribunal or the courts. Although caste is not an inherent social category in Canada, it can still count as a protected characteristic.
In Canada, all people have a right to freedom from discrimination. There are many characteristics that the law considers protected under this legal structure, including the following:
Race
Gender
Place of origin
Ethnicity
Religion
Disability
The list of protected characteristics is extensive, which makes it possible for people who experience discrimination to fight for justice within the legal structure. Since caste is not something that people choose but something that is forced upon them by others, it results in a protected characteristic similar to place of origin, ancestry, and race.
Canadians who experience caste discrimination are not taking it lightly. Like Mr. Bhangu, they are fighting for their right to freedom and safety in their new home.
When it comes to planning the perfect wedding, every detail matters. From asking loved ones to save the date to deciding on a date, you want the nuptials of your dreams. While there are many important things to cover, most would agree the reception menu is a big deal. The reception is one of the things people anticipate most about a wedding, and yours is no exception. Finding the right caterer is a detail that requires your care and consideration. Here are some things engaged Canadian couples should know.
Choosing the Event Type
You know you’re getting married, and you certainly want to have a reception. Have you thought about the type of event you’re having? Will it be a smaller affair with food served family-style per table? Will you have a buffet-style service where guests get their food and return to their seats to eat? Maybe you want to serve a grand meal made of several small courses featuring gourmet dishes and ingredients. Before you can choose a caterer, you need to have an idea of the type of reception you’re envisioning. The right caterer will be able to execute your vision splendidly.
Determining a Budget With A Caterer
Just as casual restaurants are less expensive than fine dining establishments, casual catering is generally less expensive than gourmet or exotic catering. How much can you afford to spend on food? It’s important to have a realistic budget based on what you want. Fancier dishes often require more expensive ingredients and more complicated cooking techniques. Look for a caterer that can provide the menu you want at a price you can afford. A good caterer can also explore cost-saving options.
Prioritizing Based on the Food
Many couples will focus on booking a venue first and then check to see if that venue can accommodate their reception plans. It might be better to start with the caterer. Most professionals will have knowledge about local venues that “cater” best to their food preparation and service. If your caterer and menu require food to be cooked at the venue, you’ll want a place with a full kitchen that can accommodate cooking for a crowd. If not, then you’ll need a provider who can cook at another location and bring equipment to keep dishes at the proper temperature.
Accommodating Special Diets With A Caterer
Between food intolerances, dietary restrictions, and special lifestyles, it’s important to know if the caterer can accommodate special diets. Imagine your bestie has agreed to be a maid of honor or best man, but due to their lactose intolerance, they won’t be able to eat much of what’s served. Think about the people who will be celebrating with you, including vegetarians, vegans, pescatarians, and people who avoid certain foods for health or religious reasons. Many caterers can provide multiple options to make sure everyone enjoys a full meal.
Confirming What Is Covered
It’s important to have a clear understanding of what’s included with a caterer’s services. Some caterers only provide the food, but it’s up to you or the venue to provide servers, bartenders, and other personnel. You may have other wedding vendors such as a planner, a photographer, or DJ working the event. Will the catering include meals for those vendors? Some wedding chefs also provide tools and equipment needed to serve and dispose of food. Don’t assume when it comes to what’s included. Ask lots of questions and get answers before agreeing to a contract.
Your special day is about so much more than the food, but your menu is an important part of the event. Weddings should be joyous affairs, but hiring the wrong caterer or ignoring certain food-related details can negatively impact your special occasion. Consider these important details when planning your wedding eats.
Can you name a Canadian wedding tradition off top of your head? Over the years, countless wedding traditions have come and gone. One of the biggest challenges you may face while planning your nuptials is knowing which practices to include. For many couples, incorporating local or historical rituals can be a perfect way to feel connected to your heritage. Take a moment to review these classic Canadian wedding traditions and see which might be a perfect fit for your upcoming celebrations.
Taking Time for Tea
If you’re planning on having a smaller guest list for your wedding, you may be looking for a way to include friends and associates who didn’t make the cut. One option to consider is the tradition of hosting a trousseau tea gathering. Essentially, this is a small party held a few days before the wedding where neighbors, coworkers, and anyone not invited to the official event can come together to celebrate the couple. Instead of serving a full meal, guests are treated to tea, baked goods, and other small snacks. This is a lovely way to make everyone feel included.
Dancing in Silly Socks
In Ontario, one French-Canadian ritual that has remained consistently popular at weddings over the years is the sock dance. Originally, this tradition involved the unwed older siblings of the bride and groom. During the reception, the brothers and sisters would take to the dance floor and don silly knee-high socks. The siblings would then dance for the guests, who would throw money at their feet. The siblings would then collect the money and deliver it to the happy couple. Nowadays, it is common for both married and unwed siblings to take part in this fun and entertaining tradition.
Creating a Convoy
Another French-Canadian tradition to consider for your big day is the wedding train. On the morning of the wedding, the family members and close friends of the couple gather together and create a convoy of cars. The group then drives their vehicles around the neighborhood where the couple is getting ready and makes as much noise as possible by honking their horns and shouting out the windows. The idea is to create an air of celebration to let everyone know that the wedding day has arrived. The noisy convoy will then travel from the neighborhood to the wedding venue.
Raising Funds
Throwing a wedding can easily cost a small fortune. One way that Canadian couples handle their event expenses is by hosting a fundraising social. This classic tradition is often referred to as a stag and doe party and is a way for the couple to raise money for their nuptials. Guests will purchase tickets to the party and be given food, drink, and entertainment. Anyone can buy a ticket, meaning the event is not limited to only those who will be invited to the official wedding. Some couples will even auction off exciting prizes to raise additional funds.
An Old Tradition of Putting a Penny in the Shoe
Plenty of older wedding traditions trace their origins back to the idea of encouraging good luck or warding off evil spirits. One popular custom that follows this concept is for the bride to put a penny in her shoe on the day of her wedding. By doing this, the bride is encouraging a future of prosperity and happiness with her partner. In recent years, this practice has not been limited to the bride. Anyone who is looking to bestow good energy and wealth upon the couple can add a coin to their own shoes.
Finding the Best Tradition for Your Wedding
Incorporating the right wedding traditions into your big day can be both a fun and challenging process. By looking at local traditions, you can guarantee your heritage is a foundational part of the event. Take your time to learn more about different Canadian customs and see which classic rituals are worth including in your celebrations.
