Engagement parties have long been a tradition that couples indulge in before getting married. However, younger Canadians have been putting a unique spin on this custom in recent years by throwing surprise engagement parties. This can be a great way to delight the happy couple and show them how much their connection means to their family and friends. Still, you need to go about the process in the right manner for it to work. Review this guide and gain more perspective on how to properly throw a surprise engagement party.
Ask the Right Preliminary Questions
Before you do anything else, you need to ask yourself a handful of questions about the couple. Namely, you must consider whether or not they will appreciate being surprised. Some people absolutely hate surprises, especially individuals who like to have a lot of control over their lives. If the couple likes to meticulously plan every detail of their routine without change, then you may want to nix the idea of surprising them. You should also consider whether the guests can keep a secret. If you’re working with people who love to gossip, you may want to consider other options.
Create the Guest-list For The Engagement Party
Next, you need to figure out who will be invited to the party. This can be a tricky step, especially if you don’t know all the people the couple would want present at the event. Since you cannot ask the couple without giving away the secret, you must work with other friends and family members to put together a succinct list. You must be very careful with who you invite, as custom dictates people who are invited to the engagement party must also be invited to the wedding. Be thorough to avoid any awkward situations for the couple.
Pick a Place
One of the more challenging aspects of planning a surprise engagement party is selecting a location. Opting for a venue like a restaurant can make it easier to figure out food and drink concerns, but it also can be more expensive and limit how many guests you can invite. The popular alternative younger Canadians have been taking advantage of in recent years is hosting the party at someone’s home. This can help to create a relaxed and welcoming environment for everyone. If you decide to use a venue, be sure to book the space at least three months in advance.
Plan Activities At Your Engagement Party
To make the event more personal, you may wish to include a variety of activities. Specifically, it can be a good idea to plan games that are centered around the couple and their relationship. For example, you can create a list of questions about the couple and have all of the guests answer them to the best of their abilities. When the answers are read aloud, it can make for a fun and hilarious experience as the couple learns who knows the most about them. Look at sites like Pinterest for more inspiration on party games.
Figure Out the Final Plan
Once you have all of the details figured out, you must create a plan for the day of the party. How are you going to get the couple to the venue without giving away the secret? Will someone be in charge of spending time with the couple beforehand so that they make it to the venue in a timely manner? You may also want to consider having guests park their vehicles away from the venue where the party is being held. This will help to keep the party a total surprise until the last possible moment.
Throw a Wonderful Engagement Party
While surprise engagement parties have become a popular trend among younger Canadians, a lot of work goes into planning such events. As long as you’re prepared to handle all the details, a surprise party can be a wonderful way to celebrate a special couple.
As the wedding couple, you will probably be very busy through the ceremony and reception not thinking about entertainment. Your guests may have a completely different experience, from waiting for the caterer to serve dinner after the cocktail hour to waiting for the DJ to start the dancing. Hosting entertainment for those moments can make your guests remember your wedding fondly. Here are some of the best ideas to keep guests busy during the reception.
Hire a Petting Zoo
Even if you have a kids-free wedding, adults will enjoy getting to pet and watch animals in a petting zoo. Some petting zoos have a unique array of animals, hedgehogs, bunnies, ducks, alpacas, goats and more. The staff who come with the zoo will provide information and manage the creatures, so it’s educational and fun without a lot of extra work for anyone. Check with your venue to make sure it’s okay to have animals on site.
Table Games As Entertainment
Buy some travel games or decks of cards to place on the table to give guests something easy to do between courses or during speeches. Practically everyone remembers the classics, like checkers, backgammon or crazy eights, so you won’t need to provide instructions. Personalize the decks of cards with your photos and let guests take them home as a reminder of the wedding.
A Photo Scavenger Hunt
Give guests a list of ideas for pictures to take with their own phone or with a disposable camera. Make up two or three sets of lists so everyone at the same table has a different list. Ask them to post to social media with a unique wedding hashtag to make these photos easy to find. You’ll see much more of the reception through a different lens and get some great memories that your photographer might miss.
Hire Unique Entertainers
Your community probably has a lot of entertainers who would spend a couple of hours providing entertainment for a crowd. Think beyond musicians or circus-style performers. Hire a caricaturist, a magician or a balloon animal artist for the cocktail party in addition to any band or other entertainment. If you’ve ever been to a Renaissance faire, think about the street performers that kept you entertained while you walked around, the dancers, the bird of prey showcase or the comedians.
Set Up a Miniature Golf Course
Check with your local bounce house rental to see what kinds of games they offer. If your venue has space for a mini golf course or croquet, those kinds of games can keep old and young guests entertained for a while without wearing them out in the heat of the day. You may find some other neat game ideas as some party places rent casino games or carnival games that will keep guests busy instead of twiddling their thumbs.
Coloring Books or Advice Pages For Entertainment
On each table, place some crayons and coloring books. Adults and children alike often enjoy having something to keep their hands busy that is not mentally challenging. Give guests an opportunity to leave you a piece of wisdom or advice for your marriage by leaving special cards on the table.
Family and Guest Trivia Entertainment
Get guests to talk to each other by leaving cards with clues to information about each other at the table. Kind of like a “Guess Who” game. Or leave clues about the wedding party to see if guests can guess which person in the family can play the harmonica or some other unique attribute. You might even ask who is the oldest at the wedding or who traveled the farthest. Make sure to provide answers through the evening to see who got it right.
Give your guests a reason to enjoy your wedding by keeping them entertained throughout the day or evening.
We all know how crucial an Invitation can be, Informing your guests of your wedding is one of the biggest tasks on your plate. While you might feel excited to get this started from the moment you announce your engagement, it is best to make sure you put in proper research before you begin. Invites typically come in what is known as a “suite.” Unlike invites to a birthday party, which require little more than card and envelope, there are a few key elements involved with the suite. Review this breakdown and feel ready to tackle this important wedding task.
The Preliminary Stepof The Invitation
Before you even get to the suite itself, there is a very important preliminary step you must address. The save-the-date cards are the first point of contact you will have with most of your guests. This card provides your friends and family members with the general notice of your wedding and the date you have selected. While you can include other details if you so desire, this early stage is only meant to provide a notice to your guests so they can plan accordingly. This isn’t part of the suite, but it is definitely crucial.
The Main Event
The suite itself is composed of several parts. The centerpiece is the main invitation. This is the item that includes all of the most important details of your event. The verbiage and exact phrasings you select will come down to what you feel comfortable with, but there are some templates online you can use to get started. Be sure to include your full names, the date and time of the event, and the exact address of the venue. You don’t want to crowd the paper, so limit yourself to these key points.
It is important to note that some customs suggest putting in the names of the people who are paying for the event. If your parents are helping to cover the costs of your big day, you would introduce the invitation with language suggesting they are the ones welcoming the guests. This is not as commonplace as it once was, however, and can be left to your own discretion.
The InvitationWith AResponse Card
While informing guests of your big day is important, it is equally as crucial to include the response card. This is a small item included along with the other stationery in the suite. The card is included to allow guests a convenient way of replying to the invitation. Typically, the card is very small and is placed within an envelope that has been addressed and stamped. You don’t need to include postage, but it increases the odds your guests will place the cards right in the mail and you can get a headcount.
The Excess
The final piece of the suite is the “details” card. In reality, this can be a single card or multiple pieces of paper. The point is to include the information that cannot fit on the main card or doesn’t belong elsewhere. For example, if you need to give directions to guests, this is the place to provide that info. The details you can include here will range from the answers to commonplace questions, contact info that might be essential, information related to booking local hotel rooms, and so on.
The Rest
Finally, there are lots of little flourishes you can include in the invitation suite to give it a bit more personality. While you don’t want to over stuff the envelope, couples will include decorative elements that don’t take up much space and help to tie the invites into the overall aesthetic of the event.
An invitation suite is an important part of your big day. Create a list to make sure you hit every point discussed here and tackle this task with ease.
Being invited to attend a wedding is a great honor. When a couple asks you to share their special day with them, it means you are a person of importance to their relationship. Unfortunately, there are plenty of guests who make significant errors when it comes to celebrating a marriage. If you want to be the best guest possible, take a look at these common mistakes and learn how to avoid them at all costs.
TheInvited
Couples put a lot of thought behind who is included on their guest lists. This also means they have been deliberate with which guests will receive a plus-one invite. If you were not given the option to bring a date to the event, then you should simply accept this. One of the most uncomfortable mistakes you can make is to reach out to the couple and request a plus-one. The couple likely is working with a tight budget, and asking to bring someone can put them in a very difficult position.
Another common mistake with invitations is failing to RSVP in a timely manner. The longer you wait, the more complicated you are making matters for the couple. You should also stay true to your word and attend an event that you replied “yes” to. If a conflict comes up and you can no longer make it, let the couple know as early as possible so they can adjust their lists accordingly.
The Invited and The Gift
When you’re invited to a wedding, you are also expected to bring a gift. Unfortunately, there are plenty of guests who forego giving a present. While it is not mandatory to provide a gift, you can bet that the absence will be noticed. To maintain a strong relationship with the couple, find a present that falls within your budget. If there is a registry attached to the event, try to avoid purchasing an item that is not on the official list. For those who don’t have time to grab something from a store, a cash gift is a suitable fit.
The Ceremony
These days, everyone uses their phones to snap a ton of pictures during a wedding ceremony. Since the couple likely hired a professional to photograph the event, you must remain mindful of how you go about taking your own pics. Getting in the way of the photographer is a huge faux pas, so stay in your seat at all times to avoid blocking a perfect shot. It is also important to remain quiet during the ceremony and to put all of your electronic devices on silent in advance.
The Reception
Most wedding receptions feature an open bar for guests. However, this is not an invitation for you to drink so much that you make a fool of yourself. While you should feel free to indulge in a few beverages and enjoy your experience, you must also remain mindful of your limit. The last thing you want to do is ruin a beautiful day by becoming belligerent. It is also a good idea to be polite to the catering staff and any other vendors present during the event. Treat all guests and staff with the same level of respect.
The Odds and Ends
Finally, be sure to pay attention to all information listed on your invitation or the official wedding website. If there is a dress code, plan your outfit in advance. If you need to mention dietary restrictions, do it immediately. Try to avoid bothering the couple with any questions that can be answered by reviewing the information already given to you.
While being a wedding guest can be a lot of fun, you should be mindful of your behavior throughout the experience. Use your best judgment at all times, and help the couple enjoy this special day to the fullest.
Guests who don’t RSVP are the bane of hosts of all kinds of parties, not just wedding receptions. Some experts estimate that up to 20% of wedding guests will RSVP no, while another 60% will RSVP yes. That leaves 20% who won’t respond at all. The reason a guest doesn’t respond isn’t important. Dealing with those non-responders is. Expect to have to call some people on your guest list to find out whether they’re attending or not. Have a plan to minimize your frustration.
Include a Grace Period
Your caterer needs a head count by a certain date. Move your RSVP deadline up about two weeks from that day. This gives you some time to track down those guests who didn’t RSVP. Put some time in your own schedule to handle the situation. You know you’re going to need to deal with non-responsive guests. Planning for it can give you breathing room.
Send Contact Reminders
About a week before the RSVP deadline, send out a reminder by email or text. This gives those folks with good intentions a chance to respond. You should get a few more responses before the deadline. It’s easy to lose track of time and forget to RSVP. Make it as easy as possible to RSVP, either through your wedding website or by responding to the reminder.
Take a Breath
As the deadline gets closer, it’s easy to feel frustrated. Weddings are serious business. Before you start pestering non-responsive guests, shake off those feelings of irritation. Yes, you’re busy and shouldn’t have to track down those guests to get the answers you need. However, your wedding day doesn’t need to be clouded by resentment by you or your guests. Your guests may have busy lives that don’t revolve around your wedding. You don’t know what they’re dealing with. Take a breath and relax.
Make Contact
You and your partner know your guests who haven’t responded. Decide how to make contact with each person on the list. Get help from your wedding party if your list is long. Start by connecting with those who have not responded. If your previous text or email went unanswered, find another way to reach out. Leave a voicemail or meet in person. This is not the time to use a group email or text. Reach out to each guest individually. Emphasize that you’re trying to get a head count for the venue or caterer.
Be Gracious
Instead of yelling at your guests who haven’t responded, take another approach. Guests who don’t respond may be dealing with more than you realize or are embarrassed for not sending in their RSVP. Start by asking if they received your invitation. If they haven’t received it, they don’t even know about the deadline. You want to be able to deal with that situation without making them feel bad.
If they have received the invitation, gently remind them of the RSVP deadline and ask about their intentions. If someone is hesitant, give them a way to bow out. There’s no need to make them feel any worse. You just need a response.
If you have to leave a voicemail, give them another 48 hours to respond. You can say that if you don’t hear from them, you’ll assume they aren’t coming. If you simply can’t get a hold of someone, it’s a pretty good assumption that they won’t attend. Should they respond later, you may just have to be firm in telling them that you won’t have food for them. Maybe they can still attend, depending on the headcount for the venue. Be prepared to handle those situations on an individual basis. Don’t stress too much over non-responsive guests.
When it comes to tying the knot, Canadian couples have a lot of decisions to make. When is the big day? Where will it take place? Who’s going to be in the wedding party? Engaged couples can find inspiration for their nuptials in many places, including friends and family, popular films, cultural customs, and more. Why not Canada? Have you considered showing your country some love during the ultimate celebration of love? Here are some wedding décor ideas inspired by the Great White North.
Coloring Your Day With The Canadian Colors
One of the most iconic symbols of Canada is its distinctive red and white flag with a single red maple leaf. What better way to celebrate your homeland than with a red and white color scheme? White is a symbol of purity and newness, and it’s usually the color of choice for a bridal gown, a grand cake, florals, and sometimes a groom’s tuxedo. Red is widely associated with love, passion, and valentines, especially for hearts and roses. Consider the following ways to work red and white into your wedding celebration:
Attire: Bridesmaids can wear red dresses, while groomsmen go with red neckwear, pocket squares, vests, or cummerbunds.
Flowers: You and your spouse can be the king, queen, or highnesses of hearts with red and white bouquets and floral displays.
“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something red”: Put a Canadian spin on a classic wedding tradition by requesting a gift of something red instead of blue.
Other décor: Play with red and white for your reception, including balloons, table settings, wedding cakes, etc.
Leafing It Up All The Way
Red and white may not be your preferred motif, but you can still be inspired by the Canadian flag. The iconic maple leaf can be the inspiration for your marriage ceremony or reception. Use maple leaves in your bouquets and other floral displays, such as an arch or arbor at the altar. You can also feature a maple leaf in your wedding invitations, programs, and placards. Imagine turning heads with maple leaf–inspired accessories such as cufflinks, pocket squares, and jewelry. Red maple leaves are a fun way to show some national pride on your special day.
Dressing Down To Dress Up
What’s a Canadian marriage ceremony without that classic Canadian sense of humor or irony? One way to acknowledge your country is by having members of the wedding party wear Canadian tuxedoes. The Canadian tuxedo look involves wearing a denim jacket or shirt with matching pants. Supposedly the term originated in the 1950s when American entertainer Bing Crosby was denied entry to a Vancouver hotel for wearing a denim top with bottoms. Jeans maker Levi Strauss & Co fashioned a tuxedo out of denim for Crosby as a publicity stunt. Similarly, wedding apparel made of flannel and plaid can be a fun, tongue-in-cheek nod to Canada.
Topping Things Off In A Canadian Way
If red maple leaves in your cake design are too on the nose, consider topping your cake with figurines dressed up as hockey players from Canada’s biggest teams, such as the Montreal Canadiens, the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Vancouver Canucks, the Winnipeg Jets, or the Ottawa Senators. If you’re not a hockey fan, consider figurines dressed up as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Also called “Mounties,” the RCMP are easily recognized by their uniform of a red tunic, brown hat, blue breeches, and riding boots.
Planning a wedding is part of the excitement of getting married. As soon-to-be-spouses, you and your partner get to decide what you’d like to see on your big day. While you can pull inspiration from almost anything, you can also show some patriotism by choosing Canada as your source for décor, apparel, and more.
For Canadian couples who have decided to tie the knot, the marriage ceremony is one of the most important life events. It requires careful consideration, planning, and preparation, from the day of engagement all the way to the end of the reception. Many couples also anticipate kicking off this new phase of life with a honeymoon. Similar to your wedding, your honeymoon also requires careful planning. You want to start your marriage off on a high note. Here are six things you should not do on your special getaway.
1. Going Without a Plan
Whether you envision lying on a beach somewhere in the sun or taking in the bright lights of a destination city, you need to have a plan. What do you hope to accomplish on your honeymoon? This vacation is a celebration of your union, so it’s important to schedule memorable and romantic activities to make the trip special. Planning your itinerary to the letter is going too far in the other direction, but it’s important to make time for the essential things.
2. Not Having a Budget
One of the worst experiences is going on a trip and learning that you don’t have enough money to do the things you want to do. Discovering you’ve under-budgeted for your honeymoon is quite the drag. Instead of enjoying the time together, you’ll be preoccupied with how much things cost. You shouldn’t blow your finances on a single vacation, so it’s important to choose an experience that’s appropriate for your planned budget. If you can’t afford to splurge now, enjoy a modest vacation and save your funds for a future anniversary.
3. Ignoring Rules, Regulations, and Advisories
Can you imagine arriving at a coastal destination in the middle of a hurricane? It’s unwise to book a trip without researching information about the place. There could be civil unrest that makes the desired destination an unsafe place to travel. Some countries require visitors to get certain vaccines or meet other requirements before traveling. Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to planning a vacation. Nothing ruins a honeymoon like being unable to travel.
4. OverpackingOn A Honeymoon
The last thing you or your spouse will want to do is struggle with too much luggage or bags that are stuffed with things you don’t need. Think carefully about your destination. Will you really need an evening outfit every night? Maybe you can do laundry at the resort or vacation home you’ll be staying at. What if you want to bring back souvenirs? There are weight restrictions for luggage on most airlines. Limit your bags to the essentials. Your body will appreciate it.
5. Oversharing Your Honeymoon on Social Media
Some things have to be seen (and shared) to be believed. That breathtaking sunset or main course at a Michelin star restaurant may be Instagram-worthy, but don’t spend all your time sharing every minute of your trip. Remember to be in the moment with your new spouse. You don’t want to miss what’s happening in front of you and between you because you’re posting updates to friends and followers.
6. Not Respecting the Locals and Their Culture
Wherever you go, remember to respect the locals and their customs. Even in locations that thrive on tourism, be mindful of how your actions can inadvertently affect others. What might be acceptable at home in Canada may not be so in other countries. Know before you go.
Your wedding will be one of life’s most important events. A honeymoon that’s every bit as magical as your marriage ceremony is the perfect start to life with the one you love. Keep these tips in mind as you make your plans.
When you’re getting ready to share the rest of your life with a new spouse, you’re probably focused on plans associated with the wedding and surrounding events, such as a reception or rehearsal dinner. You’re probably also looking forward to the details associated with starting a new life together, such as moving in together, buying a home or opening joint accounts. With all the preparation that goes into a new marriage, it’s important to think about life with a new spouse after the honeymoon is over. Premarital counseling is a worthwhile investment, offering these potential benefits to you, your spouse-to-be and your union.
Communicating More Effectively
Communication is a critical component of any successful relationship, especially a marriage. A lack of communication or poor dialoguing can lead to or reveal cracks in any union. You and your partner may think that you have productive conversations, but an independent observation from a therapist or counselor can alert both of you to potential issues. For example, you may be great at articulating your point of view, but not so much when it comes to hearing what your spouse is really saying. Premarital therapy can help both of you work on your skills, boosting not only the effectiveness of your conversations but conflict resolution as well.
Bridging Differences With Counseling
Despite what you might see or hear in media and entertainment, there’s no one set rule when it comes to opposites attracting. Even if you and your partner have several commonalities in background and values, the two of you will also have differences in perspective, approaches and other opinions that can be the source of marital issues. For instance, the two of you may actually have very different ideas of what life together may look like. Your idea of quality time might be enjoying a movie at home, while your spouse may prefer a date night at a nice restaurant. Small differences can develop into irreconcilable ones without the objective microscope of premarital counseling.
Counseling Together and Building Together
Whether your wedding vows explicitly mention “forsaking all others” or not, the reality is that the two of you are definitely a team. While your opposition isn’t necessarily other people, recognize that your marriage will face challenges, big and small. Remember that you committed to each other and that as a team, you can overcome anything. Pre-marriage counseling for couples can be effective at helping the two of you meet small, early challenges, making you stronger for more difficult trials later in life. No successful athletic team can win without teamwork, and this is also true for married couples.
Understanding Needs
As a couple, you each have individual needs for communication, validation and how you give and receive love. It’s important that each of you understands the other’s needs when it comes to these aspects of life together. When you’re frustrated about something, your partner may think that you need solutions, when in reality, you just need someone to listen. When your companion is upset, you may not hear directly, but you may recognize behavioral patterns. Premarital therapy gives you and your spouse-to-be the opportunity to talk openly and freely about your needs, how you communicate and how you respond to conflicts and expressions of love. Sometimes there are things that you don’t see or notice, and an objective outsider can bring this to your attention in a way that is free of judgment.
There’s a lot to look forward to when marrying the love of your life. It’s a wonderful feeling to anticipate the good times during the wedding ceremony and the honeymoon; however, there will also be external and internal challenges that you will face as a couple. Premarital counseling is a great opportunity to discuss hopes, fears and issues in an environment that is open and objective.
They’re everywhere: adorable little cat figurines, each raising a single paw as if to say “hello.” They sit inside Japanese and Chinese restaurants and shops all over Canada, peering at us with huge round eyes and cute smiles on their little kitty faces. They’re said to bring good luck wherever they air. But what’s the story behind these statues? They’re called “maneki neko,” which means “beckoning cat” in Japanese. And they offer a fascinating look into Japanese beliefs and culture.
A Fabulously Fortunate Feline
Where did Lucky Cat come from? It depends on who you ask. One story involves a monk who lived at the Gotokuji temple during the 1400s. The monk was of meager means, but he cared for the temple as best he could. When a stray cat wandered into the temple one day, he allowed the creature to stay. The monk adored his cat, caring for it and sharing what little food he had with it. And one day, he asked the cat to bring him good luck.
Several days later, several samurai approached the monk and explained that the cat had waved to them from the road. One of the men, Lord Naotaka of Hikone, mentioned that he’d taken shelter under a tree during a thunderstorm when he’d seen the kitty waving. As he approached the cat to get a closer look, lightning struck the tree where he’d been standing. Grateful for the cat saving his life, Lord Naotaka donated to the temple and helped it grow into a major landmark.
Another story claims that a poor merchant found a starving stray cat near his stop. Despite his own financial struggles, he took the animal in and cared for it. The cat rewarded the merchant’s kindness by sitting in front of the shop and beckoning customers inside. The merchant’s business grew, bringing him greater prosperity.
The History of Maneki Neko Figurines
SFO Museum explains that artisans first began sculpting cat figurines during the late Edo period. During this time, Japan was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate. The Encyclopedia Britannica mentions that lower social mobility and resistance to foreign influence were common during this time. But it also brought significant economic growth, especially for merchants and tradespeople.
Located on the west bank of the Sumida River, Tokyo’s Imado region is well known for its pottery. The same kilns that produced stoneware for Japan’s dining tables began producing simple maneki neko figurines during the mid-1800s. Over time, these figurines developed design variations like the ones we see in restaurants and shops today.
Crafting maneki neko statues is still a popular art form in modern Japan. Most come from Tokoname, a coastal town about 225 miles southwest of Tokyo. There’s even a giant cat statue, Tokonyan, located on Manekineko Street.
Packed With Unique Symbolism
Today, maneki neko figurines vary in color and size. But you’ll see some common details on most of these statues. Nearly all of them sport a bib attached at the neck, painted with coins and other good luck tokens. They also hold up a single paw, but it’s not always the same paw. A raised left paw brings good fortune to a business, while right-pawed versions invite wealth into one’s home. The statues’ color variations aren’t just for aesthetics, either: White represents happiness, black drives away evil, and gold attracts wealth.
Humans have been fascinated with cats for millennia. Maybe we don’t revere them as gods as the ancient Egyptians did, but we offer space in our homes and hearts for these wonderful beings. While maneki neko figurines are adorable, the stories behind them reveal some key beliefs. Whether tangibly or not, generosity can bring rewards to those who practice it.
There’s one word that seems to pop up around every corner, from the automobile industry to luxury travel and from housing prices to fast food. Inflation has made an impact across every economic sector in Canada, including in the wedding industry. During the pandemic, many people put their plans for getting married on hold, and as soon as the government eased lockdown restrictions, people rushed to catch up on missed opportunities and plans. For couples wanting to throw the wedding of their dreams, inflation has pushed prices higher than ever before. Here’s how the inflation problem in Canada is inspiring new wedding trends.
Cost of Inflation
At first glance, inflation doesn’t look complicated, but investigating the how and why reveals an important web of factors that created the perfect storm for today’s price increases. Inflation in and of itself is not a bad thing, and it isn’t unnatural. Over time, the costs of goods and services increase, and wages must rise to keep up pace. The issue is that the unique context that the COVID-19 pandemic created gave rise to a level of inflation that should have happened slowly over many years.
During the pandemic, the demand for certain commodities fell while for others, it shot up. Along with this imbalance in the demand for goods and services, supply chains screeched to a halt due to global lockdown restrictions. Since those restrictions weren’t natural but governmentally imposed, as soon as governments changed their minds, supply chains had to race forward to catch up.
There has been a shortage of labor as well, for the same reason. Businesses eventually pass these pain points down to consumers in the form of higher prices. In the post-pandemic economy, Canadians are desperate to regain a sense of normalcy, but to achieve that, they have to decide how much they’re willing to pay for what they want.
Top Wedding Costs for Couples
It’s no secret that weddings are expensive, as there are several high costs that couples have to face when preparing to get married. Inflation has only made this problem worse. The areas that hit couples hard are:
Rentals
Venues
Catering
Flowers
Decorations
Planning services
Airfare and travel
Fuel costs
In past years, the average cost of a wedding hovered around $30,000. With inflation and the cost of labor skyrocketing, that price tag could easily hit $50,000 in the next five years if things don’t change. Canada’s central bank has been hitting back by increasing interest rates, but the trickle-down effect might take a while to reach the wedding industry.
New Solutions and Trends To Limit Cost
The high cost of putting together a wedding is inspiring couples to get creative and embrace new solutions and trends. To start, many couples are deciding against overseas destination weddings. Those who still want a change of scenery are embracing what Canada has to offer and choosing stunning natural backdrops within the country, such as local beaches, mountains, and more.
Another solution for couples is the concept of having a non-traditional wedding. While some people still want to get married in a church, there are so many more options available for people who aren’t worried about maintaining the religious aspect. From walking down the aisle through rows of books at a gorgeous public library to having a reception at a local brewery, engaged couples are really pulling out all the stops to save money. Other cost-saving wedding trends are:
Weekday ceremonies
Potluck reception meals
Upcycled wedding decorations
Semi-formal wedding attire
Wedding vendors are struggling during this busy boom period, but it’s consumers who are hit hardest by inflation. Fortunately, obstacles make people more creative than ever before, which is exactly what is happening for couples planning their wedding events.
Engagement parties have long been a tradition that couples indulge in before getting married. However, younger Canadians have been putting a unique spin on this custom in recent years by throwing surprise engagement parties. This can be a great way to delight the happy couple and show them how much their connection means to their family and friends. Still, you need to go about the process in the right manner for it to work. Review this guide and gain more perspective on how to properly throw a surprise engagement party.
Ask the Right Preliminary Questions
Before you do anything else, you need to ask yourself a handful of questions about the couple. Namely, you must consider whether or not they will appreciate being surprised. Some people absolutely hate surprises, especially individuals who like to have a lot of control over their lives. If the couple likes to meticulously plan every detail of their routine without change, then you may want to nix the idea of surprising them. You should also consider whether the guests can keep a secret. If you’re working with people who love to gossip, you may want to consider other options.
Create the Guest-list For The Engagement Party
Next, you need to figure out who will be invited to the party. This can be a tricky step, especially if you don’t know all the people the couple would want present at the event. Since you cannot ask the couple without giving away the secret, you must work with other friends and family members to put together a succinct list. You must be very careful with who you invite, as custom dictates people who are invited to the engagement party must also be invited to the wedding. Be thorough to avoid any awkward situations for the couple.
Pick a Place
One of the more challenging aspects of planning a surprise engagement party is selecting a location. Opting for a venue like a restaurant can make it easier to figure out food and drink concerns, but it also can be more expensive and limit how many guests you can invite. The popular alternative younger Canadians have been taking advantage of in recent years is hosting the party at someone’s home. This can help to create a relaxed and welcoming environment for everyone. If you decide to use a venue, be sure to book the space at least three months in advance.
Plan Activities At Your Engagement Party
To make the event more personal, you may wish to include a variety of activities. Specifically, it can be a good idea to plan games that are centered around the couple and their relationship. For example, you can create a list of questions about the couple and have all of the guests answer them to the best of their abilities. When the answers are read aloud, it can make for a fun and hilarious experience as the couple learns who knows the most about them. Look at sites like Pinterest for more inspiration on party games.
Figure Out the Final Plan
Once you have all of the details figured out, you must create a plan for the day of the party. How are you going to get the couple to the venue without giving away the secret? Will someone be in charge of spending time with the couple beforehand so that they make it to the venue in a timely manner? You may also want to consider having guests park their vehicles away from the venue where the party is being held. This will help to keep the party a total surprise until the last possible moment.
Throw a Wonderful Engagement Party
While surprise engagement parties have become a popular trend among younger Canadians, a lot of work goes into planning such events. As long as you’re prepared to handle all the details, a surprise party can be a wonderful way to celebrate a special couple.
As the wedding couple, you will probably be very busy through the ceremony and reception not thinking about entertainment. Your guests may have a completely different experience, from waiting for the caterer to serve dinner after the cocktail hour to waiting for the DJ to start the dancing. Hosting entertainment for those moments can make your guests remember your wedding fondly. Here are some of the best ideas to keep guests busy during the reception.
Hire a Petting Zoo
Even if you have a kids-free wedding, adults will enjoy getting to pet and watch animals in a petting zoo. Some petting zoos have a unique array of animals, hedgehogs, bunnies, ducks, alpacas, goats and more. The staff who come with the zoo will provide information and manage the creatures, so it’s educational and fun without a lot of extra work for anyone. Check with your venue to make sure it’s okay to have animals on site.
Table Games As Entertainment
Buy some travel games or decks of cards to place on the table to give guests something easy to do between courses or during speeches. Practically everyone remembers the classics, like checkers, backgammon or crazy eights, so you won’t need to provide instructions. Personalize the decks of cards with your photos and let guests take them home as a reminder of the wedding.
A Photo Scavenger Hunt
Give guests a list of ideas for pictures to take with their own phone or with a disposable camera. Make up two or three sets of lists so everyone at the same table has a different list. Ask them to post to social media with a unique wedding hashtag to make these photos easy to find. You’ll see much more of the reception through a different lens and get some great memories that your photographer might miss.
Hire Unique Entertainers
Your community probably has a lot of entertainers who would spend a couple of hours providing entertainment for a crowd. Think beyond musicians or circus-style performers. Hire a caricaturist, a magician or a balloon animal artist for the cocktail party in addition to any band or other entertainment. If you’ve ever been to a Renaissance faire, think about the street performers that kept you entertained while you walked around, the dancers, the bird of prey showcase or the comedians.
Set Up a Miniature Golf Course
Check with your local bounce house rental to see what kinds of games they offer. If your venue has space for a mini golf course or croquet, those kinds of games can keep old and young guests entertained for a while without wearing them out in the heat of the day. You may find some other neat game ideas as some party places rent casino games or carnival games that will keep guests busy instead of twiddling their thumbs.
Coloring Books or Advice Pages For Entertainment
On each table, place some crayons and coloring books. Adults and children alike often enjoy having something to keep their hands busy that is not mentally challenging. Give guests an opportunity to leave you a piece of wisdom or advice for your marriage by leaving special cards on the table.
Family and Guest Trivia Entertainment
Get guests to talk to each other by leaving cards with clues to information about each other at the table. Kind of like a “Guess Who” game. Or leave clues about the wedding party to see if guests can guess which person in the family can play the harmonica or some other unique attribute. You might even ask who is the oldest at the wedding or who traveled the farthest. Make sure to provide answers through the evening to see who got it right.
Give your guests a reason to enjoy your wedding by keeping them entertained throughout the day or evening.
We all know how crucial an Invitation can be, Informing your guests of your wedding is one of the biggest tasks on your plate. While you might feel excited to get this started from the moment you announce your engagement, it is best to make sure you put in proper research before you begin. Invites typically come in what is known as a “suite.” Unlike invites to a birthday party, which require little more than card and envelope, there are a few key elements involved with the suite. Review this breakdown and feel ready to tackle this important wedding task.
The Preliminary Stepof The Invitation
Before you even get to the suite itself, there is a very important preliminary step you must address. The save-the-date cards are the first point of contact you will have with most of your guests. This card provides your friends and family members with the general notice of your wedding and the date you have selected. While you can include other details if you so desire, this early stage is only meant to provide a notice to your guests so they can plan accordingly. This isn’t part of the suite, but it is definitely crucial.
The Main Event
The suite itself is composed of several parts. The centerpiece is the main invitation. This is the item that includes all of the most important details of your event. The verbiage and exact phrasings you select will come down to what you feel comfortable with, but there are some templates online you can use to get started. Be sure to include your full names, the date and time of the event, and the exact address of the venue. You don’t want to crowd the paper, so limit yourself to these key points.
It is important to note that some customs suggest putting in the names of the people who are paying for the event. If your parents are helping to cover the costs of your big day, you would introduce the invitation with language suggesting they are the ones welcoming the guests. This is not as commonplace as it once was, however, and can be left to your own discretion.
The InvitationWith AResponse Card
While informing guests of your big day is important, it is equally as crucial to include the response card. This is a small item included along with the other stationery in the suite. The card is included to allow guests a convenient way of replying to the invitation. Typically, the card is very small and is placed within an envelope that has been addressed and stamped. You don’t need to include postage, but it increases the odds your guests will place the cards right in the mail and you can get a headcount.
The Excess
The final piece of the suite is the “details” card. In reality, this can be a single card or multiple pieces of paper. The point is to include the information that cannot fit on the main card or doesn’t belong elsewhere. For example, if you need to give directions to guests, this is the place to provide that info. The details you can include here will range from the answers to commonplace questions, contact info that might be essential, information related to booking local hotel rooms, and so on.
The Rest
Finally, there are lots of little flourishes you can include in the invitation suite to give it a bit more personality. While you don’t want to over stuff the envelope, couples will include decorative elements that don’t take up much space and help to tie the invites into the overall aesthetic of the event.
An invitation suite is an important part of your big day. Create a list to make sure you hit every point discussed here and tackle this task with ease.
Being invited to attend a wedding is a great honor. When a couple asks you to share their special day with them, it means you are a person of importance to their relationship. Unfortunately, there are plenty of guests who make significant errors when it comes to celebrating a marriage. If you want to be the best guest possible, take a look at these common mistakes and learn how to avoid them at all costs.
TheInvited
Couples put a lot of thought behind who is included on their guest lists. This also means they have been deliberate with which guests will receive a plus-one invite. If you were not given the option to bring a date to the event, then you should simply accept this. One of the most uncomfortable mistakes you can make is to reach out to the couple and request a plus-one. The couple likely is working with a tight budget, and asking to bring someone can put them in a very difficult position.
Another common mistake with invitations is failing to RSVP in a timely manner. The longer you wait, the more complicated you are making matters for the couple. You should also stay true to your word and attend an event that you replied “yes” to. If a conflict comes up and you can no longer make it, let the couple know as early as possible so they can adjust their lists accordingly.
The Invited and The Gift
When you’re invited to a wedding, you are also expected to bring a gift. Unfortunately, there are plenty of guests who forego giving a present. While it is not mandatory to provide a gift, you can bet that the absence will be noticed. To maintain a strong relationship with the couple, find a present that falls within your budget. If there is a registry attached to the event, try to avoid purchasing an item that is not on the official list. For those who don’t have time to grab something from a store, a cash gift is a suitable fit.
The Ceremony
These days, everyone uses their phones to snap a ton of pictures during a wedding ceremony. Since the couple likely hired a professional to photograph the event, you must remain mindful of how you go about taking your own pics. Getting in the way of the photographer is a huge faux pas, so stay in your seat at all times to avoid blocking a perfect shot. It is also important to remain quiet during the ceremony and to put all of your electronic devices on silent in advance.
The Reception
Most wedding receptions feature an open bar for guests. However, this is not an invitation for you to drink so much that you make a fool of yourself. While you should feel free to indulge in a few beverages and enjoy your experience, you must also remain mindful of your limit. The last thing you want to do is ruin a beautiful day by becoming belligerent. It is also a good idea to be polite to the catering staff and any other vendors present during the event. Treat all guests and staff with the same level of respect.
The Odds and Ends
Finally, be sure to pay attention to all information listed on your invitation or the official wedding website. If there is a dress code, plan your outfit in advance. If you need to mention dietary restrictions, do it immediately. Try to avoid bothering the couple with any questions that can be answered by reviewing the information already given to you.
While being a wedding guest can be a lot of fun, you should be mindful of your behavior throughout the experience. Use your best judgment at all times, and help the couple enjoy this special day to the fullest.
Guests who don’t RSVP are the bane of hosts of all kinds of parties, not just wedding receptions. Some experts estimate that up to 20% of wedding guests will RSVP no, while another 60% will RSVP yes. That leaves 20% who won’t respond at all. The reason a guest doesn’t respond isn’t important. Dealing with those non-responders is. Expect to have to call some people on your guest list to find out whether they’re attending or not. Have a plan to minimize your frustration.
Include a Grace Period
Your caterer needs a head count by a certain date. Move your RSVP deadline up about two weeks from that day. This gives you some time to track down those guests who didn’t RSVP. Put some time in your own schedule to handle the situation. You know you’re going to need to deal with non-responsive guests. Planning for it can give you breathing room.
Send Contact Reminders
About a week before the RSVP deadline, send out a reminder by email or text. This gives those folks with good intentions a chance to respond. You should get a few more responses before the deadline. It’s easy to lose track of time and forget to RSVP. Make it as easy as possible to RSVP, either through your wedding website or by responding to the reminder.
Take a Breath
As the deadline gets closer, it’s easy to feel frustrated. Weddings are serious business. Before you start pestering non-responsive guests, shake off those feelings of irritation. Yes, you’re busy and shouldn’t have to track down those guests to get the answers you need. However, your wedding day doesn’t need to be clouded by resentment by you or your guests. Your guests may have busy lives that don’t revolve around your wedding. You don’t know what they’re dealing with. Take a breath and relax.
Make Contact
You and your partner know your guests who haven’t responded. Decide how to make contact with each person on the list. Get help from your wedding party if your list is long. Start by connecting with those who have not responded. If your previous text or email went unanswered, find another way to reach out. Leave a voicemail or meet in person. This is not the time to use a group email or text. Reach out to each guest individually. Emphasize that you’re trying to get a head count for the venue or caterer.
Be Gracious
Instead of yelling at your guests who haven’t responded, take another approach. Guests who don’t respond may be dealing with more than you realize or are embarrassed for not sending in their RSVP. Start by asking if they received your invitation. If they haven’t received it, they don’t even know about the deadline. You want to be able to deal with that situation without making them feel bad.
If they have received the invitation, gently remind them of the RSVP deadline and ask about their intentions. If someone is hesitant, give them a way to bow out. There’s no need to make them feel any worse. You just need a response.
If you have to leave a voicemail, give them another 48 hours to respond. You can say that if you don’t hear from them, you’ll assume they aren’t coming. If you simply can’t get a hold of someone, it’s a pretty good assumption that they won’t attend. Should they respond later, you may just have to be firm in telling them that you won’t have food for them. Maybe they can still attend, depending on the headcount for the venue. Be prepared to handle those situations on an individual basis. Don’t stress too much over non-responsive guests.
When it comes to tying the knot, Canadian couples have a lot of decisions to make. When is the big day? Where will it take place? Who’s going to be in the wedding party? Engaged couples can find inspiration for their nuptials in many places, including friends and family, popular films, cultural customs, and more. Why not Canada? Have you considered showing your country some love during the ultimate celebration of love? Here are some wedding décor ideas inspired by the Great White North.
Coloring Your Day With The Canadian Colors
One of the most iconic symbols of Canada is its distinctive red and white flag with a single red maple leaf. What better way to celebrate your homeland than with a red and white color scheme? White is a symbol of purity and newness, and it’s usually the color of choice for a bridal gown, a grand cake, florals, and sometimes a groom’s tuxedo. Red is widely associated with love, passion, and valentines, especially for hearts and roses. Consider the following ways to work red and white into your wedding celebration:
Attire: Bridesmaids can wear red dresses, while groomsmen go with red neckwear, pocket squares, vests, or cummerbunds.
Flowers: You and your spouse can be the king, queen, or highnesses of hearts with red and white bouquets and floral displays.
“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something red”: Put a Canadian spin on a classic wedding tradition by requesting a gift of something red instead of blue.
Other décor: Play with red and white for your reception, including balloons, table settings, wedding cakes, etc.
Leafing It Up All The Way
Red and white may not be your preferred motif, but you can still be inspired by the Canadian flag. The iconic maple leaf can be the inspiration for your marriage ceremony or reception. Use maple leaves in your bouquets and other floral displays, such as an arch or arbor at the altar. You can also feature a maple leaf in your wedding invitations, programs, and placards. Imagine turning heads with maple leaf–inspired accessories such as cufflinks, pocket squares, and jewelry. Red maple leaves are a fun way to show some national pride on your special day.
Dressing Down To Dress Up
What’s a Canadian marriage ceremony without that classic Canadian sense of humor or irony? One way to acknowledge your country is by having members of the wedding party wear Canadian tuxedoes. The Canadian tuxedo look involves wearing a denim jacket or shirt with matching pants. Supposedly the term originated in the 1950s when American entertainer Bing Crosby was denied entry to a Vancouver hotel for wearing a denim top with bottoms. Jeans maker Levi Strauss & Co fashioned a tuxedo out of denim for Crosby as a publicity stunt. Similarly, wedding apparel made of flannel and plaid can be a fun, tongue-in-cheek nod to Canada.
Topping Things Off In A Canadian Way
If red maple leaves in your cake design are too on the nose, consider topping your cake with figurines dressed up as hockey players from Canada’s biggest teams, such as the Montreal Canadiens, the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Vancouver Canucks, the Winnipeg Jets, or the Ottawa Senators. If you’re not a hockey fan, consider figurines dressed up as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Also called “Mounties,” the RCMP are easily recognized by their uniform of a red tunic, brown hat, blue breeches, and riding boots.
Planning a wedding is part of the excitement of getting married. As soon-to-be-spouses, you and your partner get to decide what you’d like to see on your big day. While you can pull inspiration from almost anything, you can also show some patriotism by choosing Canada as your source for décor, apparel, and more.
For Canadian couples who have decided to tie the knot, the marriage ceremony is one of the most important life events. It requires careful consideration, planning, and preparation, from the day of engagement all the way to the end of the reception. Many couples also anticipate kicking off this new phase of life with a honeymoon. Similar to your wedding, your honeymoon also requires careful planning. You want to start your marriage off on a high note. Here are six things you should not do on your special getaway.
1. Going Without a Plan
Whether you envision lying on a beach somewhere in the sun or taking in the bright lights of a destination city, you need to have a plan. What do you hope to accomplish on your honeymoon? This vacation is a celebration of your union, so it’s important to schedule memorable and romantic activities to make the trip special. Planning your itinerary to the letter is going too far in the other direction, but it’s important to make time for the essential things.
2. Not Having a Budget
One of the worst experiences is going on a trip and learning that you don’t have enough money to do the things you want to do. Discovering you’ve under-budgeted for your honeymoon is quite the drag. Instead of enjoying the time together, you’ll be preoccupied with how much things cost. You shouldn’t blow your finances on a single vacation, so it’s important to choose an experience that’s appropriate for your planned budget. If you can’t afford to splurge now, enjoy a modest vacation and save your funds for a future anniversary.
3. Ignoring Rules, Regulations, and Advisories
Can you imagine arriving at a coastal destination in the middle of a hurricane? It’s unwise to book a trip without researching information about the place. There could be civil unrest that makes the desired destination an unsafe place to travel. Some countries require visitors to get certain vaccines or meet other requirements before traveling. Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to planning a vacation. Nothing ruins a honeymoon like being unable to travel.
4. OverpackingOn A Honeymoon
The last thing you or your spouse will want to do is struggle with too much luggage or bags that are stuffed with things you don’t need. Think carefully about your destination. Will you really need an evening outfit every night? Maybe you can do laundry at the resort or vacation home you’ll be staying at. What if you want to bring back souvenirs? There are weight restrictions for luggage on most airlines. Limit your bags to the essentials. Your body will appreciate it.
5. Oversharing Your Honeymoon on Social Media
Some things have to be seen (and shared) to be believed. That breathtaking sunset or main course at a Michelin star restaurant may be Instagram-worthy, but don’t spend all your time sharing every minute of your trip. Remember to be in the moment with your new spouse. You don’t want to miss what’s happening in front of you and between you because you’re posting updates to friends and followers.
6. Not Respecting the Locals and Their Culture
Wherever you go, remember to respect the locals and their customs. Even in locations that thrive on tourism, be mindful of how your actions can inadvertently affect others. What might be acceptable at home in Canada may not be so in other countries. Know before you go.
Your wedding will be one of life’s most important events. A honeymoon that’s every bit as magical as your marriage ceremony is the perfect start to life with the one you love. Keep these tips in mind as you make your plans.
When you’re getting ready to share the rest of your life with a new spouse, you’re probably focused on plans associated with the wedding and surrounding events, such as a reception or rehearsal dinner. You’re probably also looking forward to the details associated with starting a new life together, such as moving in together, buying a home or opening joint accounts. With all the preparation that goes into a new marriage, it’s important to think about life with a new spouse after the honeymoon is over. Premarital counseling is a worthwhile investment, offering these potential benefits to you, your spouse-to-be and your union.
Communicating More Effectively
Communication is a critical component of any successful relationship, especially a marriage. A lack of communication or poor dialoguing can lead to or reveal cracks in any union. You and your partner may think that you have productive conversations, but an independent observation from a therapist or counselor can alert both of you to potential issues. For example, you may be great at articulating your point of view, but not so much when it comes to hearing what your spouse is really saying. Premarital therapy can help both of you work on your skills, boosting not only the effectiveness of your conversations but conflict resolution as well.
Bridging Differences With Counseling
Despite what you might see or hear in media and entertainment, there’s no one set rule when it comes to opposites attracting. Even if you and your partner have several commonalities in background and values, the two of you will also have differences in perspective, approaches and other opinions that can be the source of marital issues. For instance, the two of you may actually have very different ideas of what life together may look like. Your idea of quality time might be enjoying a movie at home, while your spouse may prefer a date night at a nice restaurant. Small differences can develop into irreconcilable ones without the objective microscope of premarital counseling.
Counseling Together and Building Together
Whether your wedding vows explicitly mention “forsaking all others” or not, the reality is that the two of you are definitely a team. While your opposition isn’t necessarily other people, recognize that your marriage will face challenges, big and small. Remember that you committed to each other and that as a team, you can overcome anything. Pre-marriage counseling for couples can be effective at helping the two of you meet small, early challenges, making you stronger for more difficult trials later in life. No successful athletic team can win without teamwork, and this is also true for married couples.
Understanding Needs
As a couple, you each have individual needs for communication, validation and how you give and receive love. It’s important that each of you understands the other’s needs when it comes to these aspects of life together. When you’re frustrated about something, your partner may think that you need solutions, when in reality, you just need someone to listen. When your companion is upset, you may not hear directly, but you may recognize behavioral patterns. Premarital therapy gives you and your spouse-to-be the opportunity to talk openly and freely about your needs, how you communicate and how you respond to conflicts and expressions of love. Sometimes there are things that you don’t see or notice, and an objective outsider can bring this to your attention in a way that is free of judgment.
There’s a lot to look forward to when marrying the love of your life. It’s a wonderful feeling to anticipate the good times during the wedding ceremony and the honeymoon; however, there will also be external and internal challenges that you will face as a couple. Premarital counseling is a great opportunity to discuss hopes, fears and issues in an environment that is open and objective.
They’re everywhere: adorable little cat figurines, each raising a single paw as if to say “hello.” They sit inside Japanese and Chinese restaurants and shops all over Canada, peering at us with huge round eyes and cute smiles on their little kitty faces. They’re said to bring good luck wherever they air. But what’s the story behind these statues? They’re called “maneki neko,” which means “beckoning cat” in Japanese. And they offer a fascinating look into Japanese beliefs and culture.
A Fabulously Fortunate Feline
Where did Lucky Cat come from? It depends on who you ask. One story involves a monk who lived at the Gotokuji temple during the 1400s. The monk was of meager means, but he cared for the temple as best he could. When a stray cat wandered into the temple one day, he allowed the creature to stay. The monk adored his cat, caring for it and sharing what little food he had with it. And one day, he asked the cat to bring him good luck.
Several days later, several samurai approached the monk and explained that the cat had waved to them from the road. One of the men, Lord Naotaka of Hikone, mentioned that he’d taken shelter under a tree during a thunderstorm when he’d seen the kitty waving. As he approached the cat to get a closer look, lightning struck the tree where he’d been standing. Grateful for the cat saving his life, Lord Naotaka donated to the temple and helped it grow into a major landmark.
Another story claims that a poor merchant found a starving stray cat near his stop. Despite his own financial struggles, he took the animal in and cared for it. The cat rewarded the merchant’s kindness by sitting in front of the shop and beckoning customers inside. The merchant’s business grew, bringing him greater prosperity.
The History of Maneki Neko Figurines
SFO Museum explains that artisans first began sculpting cat figurines during the late Edo period. During this time, Japan was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate. The Encyclopedia Britannica mentions that lower social mobility and resistance to foreign influence were common during this time. But it also brought significant economic growth, especially for merchants and tradespeople.
Located on the west bank of the Sumida River, Tokyo’s Imado region is well known for its pottery. The same kilns that produced stoneware for Japan’s dining tables began producing simple maneki neko figurines during the mid-1800s. Over time, these figurines developed design variations like the ones we see in restaurants and shops today.
Crafting maneki neko statues is still a popular art form in modern Japan. Most come from Tokoname, a coastal town about 225 miles southwest of Tokyo. There’s even a giant cat statue, Tokonyan, located on Manekineko Street.
Packed With Unique Symbolism
Today, maneki neko figurines vary in color and size. But you’ll see some common details on most of these statues. Nearly all of them sport a bib attached at the neck, painted with coins and other good luck tokens. They also hold up a single paw, but it’s not always the same paw. A raised left paw brings good fortune to a business, while right-pawed versions invite wealth into one’s home. The statues’ color variations aren’t just for aesthetics, either: White represents happiness, black drives away evil, and gold attracts wealth.
Humans have been fascinated with cats for millennia. Maybe we don’t revere them as gods as the ancient Egyptians did, but we offer space in our homes and hearts for these wonderful beings. While maneki neko figurines are adorable, the stories behind them reveal some key beliefs. Whether tangibly or not, generosity can bring rewards to those who practice it.
There’s one word that seems to pop up around every corner, from the automobile industry to luxury travel and from housing prices to fast food. Inflation has made an impact across every economic sector in Canada, including in the wedding industry. During the pandemic, many people put their plans for getting married on hold, and as soon as the government eased lockdown restrictions, people rushed to catch up on missed opportunities and plans. For couples wanting to throw the wedding of their dreams, inflation has pushed prices higher than ever before. Here’s how the inflation problem in Canada is inspiring new wedding trends.
Cost of Inflation
At first glance, inflation doesn’t look complicated, but investigating the how and why reveals an important web of factors that created the perfect storm for today’s price increases. Inflation in and of itself is not a bad thing, and it isn’t unnatural. Over time, the costs of goods and services increase, and wages must rise to keep up pace. The issue is that the unique context that the COVID-19 pandemic created gave rise to a level of inflation that should have happened slowly over many years.
During the pandemic, the demand for certain commodities fell while for others, it shot up. Along with this imbalance in the demand for goods and services, supply chains screeched to a halt due to global lockdown restrictions. Since those restrictions weren’t natural but governmentally imposed, as soon as governments changed their minds, supply chains had to race forward to catch up.
There has been a shortage of labor as well, for the same reason. Businesses eventually pass these pain points down to consumers in the form of higher prices. In the post-pandemic economy, Canadians are desperate to regain a sense of normalcy, but to achieve that, they have to decide how much they’re willing to pay for what they want.
Top Wedding Costs for Couples
It’s no secret that weddings are expensive, as there are several high costs that couples have to face when preparing to get married. Inflation has only made this problem worse. The areas that hit couples hard are:
Rentals
Venues
Catering
Flowers
Decorations
Planning services
Airfare and travel
Fuel costs
In past years, the average cost of a wedding hovered around $30,000. With inflation and the cost of labor skyrocketing, that price tag could easily hit $50,000 in the next five years if things don’t change. Canada’s central bank has been hitting back by increasing interest rates, but the trickle-down effect might take a while to reach the wedding industry.
New Solutions and Trends To Limit Cost
The high cost of putting together a wedding is inspiring couples to get creative and embrace new solutions and trends. To start, many couples are deciding against overseas destination weddings. Those who still want a change of scenery are embracing what Canada has to offer and choosing stunning natural backdrops within the country, such as local beaches, mountains, and more.
Another solution for couples is the concept of having a non-traditional wedding. While some people still want to get married in a church, there are so many more options available for people who aren’t worried about maintaining the religious aspect. From walking down the aisle through rows of books at a gorgeous public library to having a reception at a local brewery, engaged couples are really pulling out all the stops to save money. Other cost-saving wedding trends are:
Weekday ceremonies
Potluck reception meals
Upcycled wedding decorations
Semi-formal wedding attire
Wedding vendors are struggling during this busy boom period, but it’s consumers who are hit hardest by inflation. Fortunately, obstacles make people more creative than ever before, which is exactly what is happening for couples planning their wedding events.
