MEET THE CAST: CHRIS NICHOLAS – IRL

It doesn’t get better than our September campaign cover boy. To say that he has it all would be an understatement, so maybe we’ll contemplate the fact that he might be an alien – no, seriously. Chris Nicholas (aka @thedoleboy) is a full-time resident physician, part time blogger & flat-lay master. Come on. Well, don’t mind us while we show off his fashion skills. We dare you to take a look at his #ootd, shoefie & pinterest-worthy situation, and not feel (a little) jealous. Learn more about the Prepped For Success collection & our campaign model.

DON’T MISS: ÇA MARCHE

JOIN US FOR A PARADE TO END HIV/AIDS
If you live in Montreal or happen to be visiting our lovely hometown on Sunday, September 27, what better way to cap off your weekend than with the 23rd edition of ÇA MARCHE?

We’ve proudly partnered once again with the Farha Foundation to bring you an action-packed parade filled with dance performances, music, food, special giveaways and so much more. In addition, we’ve collaborated with Quebec’s greatest talents to produce the ÇA MARCHE campaign video, including the beloved Nico Archambault (So You Think You Can Dance Canada, Sur le rythme, Ils Dansent) who joined forces with the brilliant video Director Kevin Calero and famous choreographer, Wynn Holmes. The Street Parade Production brought our vision to life; to inspire you to join us in this movement, to dance, walk and move through the streets of downtown Montreal in order raise awareness and funds in the fight against HIV/AIDS, a cause ALDO’s supported since the mid-80s.

And did we mention ÇA MARCHE is the largest fundraising campaign for HIV/AIDS in Quebec and that the event will benefit those affected by the disease across the province? So you know your dough is going straight to an amazing cause. Trust us: There’s no better way to spend a Sunday —or, really, any day — than taking part in an event that celebrates life and solidarity.

YOU IN? HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW.

The fun kicks off at 10 AM with pledge collections at Le Parterre du Quartier des Spectacles (metro station Place des Arts or Saint-Laurent). From there, we’ll be walking, dancing and strutting our way through the streets of downtown Montreal with special dance performancesoffered by Bust a Move, Club Bolo, l’École de danse contemporaine de Montréal, and l’École supérieure de ballet du Québec will take place along the six kilometre route. And because every good deed deserves to be celebrated, we’ll be finishing the day with a massive celebratory dance party hosted by Piknic Electronik, featuring experiential activations, food and refreshments at at Le Parterre du Quartier des Spectacles.

To find out more and get the full schedule, and donate, visit camarche.ca.

DETAILS DETAILS: MAD FOR PLAID

With each new season come a slew of new accessories that has all us fashion-obsessed chomping at the proverbial bit, and arguably the best of them all is the cooler clime of fall. Selections are many – from boots to gloves and hats – but one of the easiest ways to take your wardrobe to next-level status is simple: scarves. While the fall 2015 runways were replete with ultra-skinny ‘70s-inspired numbers from the Chloe and Gucci camps, these delicate (albeit beautiful) options do very little to assuage our colder-than-thou winters. We need brevity that still carries style. Enter: The Oversized. The season’s array is limitless – from nubby knits that double-duty as a shawl or chunky blanket styles sure to keep you toasty in your turtleneck. We are particularly fond that the plaid print is in the midst of its own renaissance here because it offers a new take on tartan that can be bright and optimistic or deep and dark (like our beloved grunge days). This scarf of this season is much like a chameleon: you can wear it any way at any time; however you choose and whenever you decide. To us, that’s what makes fashion consistently exciting: style is (and should always be) in the eyes of the beholder.

 

MEET THE CAST: JOSHUA THEW — IRL

The spotlight is now on one of our larger-than-life FW15 Campaign dudes, Joshua Thew – & we couldn’t be more jealous of his moves. Inspired by balance, we were right to assume that he knows a thing or two about rocking work-inspired footwear with casual fall outfits. Think the right kind of rugged accessories with a certain made-in-USA vibe. Obviously, Joshua’s snaps are perfectly balanced between rough-around-the-edges & polished to the max. Take a look at his pics above & click here to learn about him and the Balancing Acts collection.

GENTS CLUB: ANKLE DEEP

Toasty warm wool, classic leather, and old-school deets—they’re all here. If you’re the kind of guy who likes something a little different, but not like, silly different, you need something that catches eyes. And as it happens, you’re exactly the guy we had in mind when we came up with the VACCO, the hybrid of the season. We took some inspiration from the GAUVIN, our timeless boot, and threw in some fall-appropriate melton wool. When it rolled off the line, we had a perfectly mixed-media shoe that will keep you warm, earn you tons of compliments, and upgrade literally everything in your closet. Just be careful not to wear these out in the elements. That extra style factor demands a little bit of extra care (take care of that wool!). But trust us, it’s worth it. Shop the entire Mr. B’s Collection here.

DETAILS DETAILS: #BAGANDBRAG

It goes without saying that fringe has major play in the summer festival circuit, but it doesn’t have to start and stop there. Just take a look at any of the fall runways and you will note tasseled trim on everything from coats to skirts; handbags to heels. And the same goes for our beloved stars on the street: troll Chiara Ferragni’s Instagram feed and you will see the beautiful blogger in fringe-tastic finds that are both a nod to her own ‘70s-inspired style and impressive designer wardrobe.

All of this is to say that fringe is having its moment in fashion, friends. And what better way to embrace the fall season than in a bevy of gorgeous accessories that celebrate t it with aplomb. We love structured handbags because of their utility and office-appropriate attitude, but what makes them all the more appealing is when we find ones in caramel and classic black that are covered in luxe fringe that slouch just so when thrown over a shoulder. And to really drive home the boho babe vibe, why not also consider adding ananimal print satchel into your wardrobe mix? It will elevate a rather minimalist wardrobe and take #mondaymotivation to a whole other level. After all, aren’t two (new) handbags always better than one?

 

 

FINAL TOUCH: LACES LOADED

Live it up in a pair of tall laced-back boots

The start of a new season is always exciting, but before you go pulling on those suede leggings and chunky knits, consider for one moment how you’ll be feeling come March: After months of cold and snow, wouldn’t it be nice to shed a few layers and show some skin?

That’s why now is the perfect time to be rocking outfits that bare just the right amount of leg with the help of a striking over-the-knee boot. As the temperatures cool, there’s no need to turn to tights when you can style your skirts and dresses with a thigh-grazer that will keep you feeling warm and looking hot.

The best way to get the look and make a chic statement this change-of-season? Work a block-heeled boot with a pointy toe and lace-up back. Paired with a structured, printed skirt, it’ll add a stylish ’70s dimension to your daytime attire. After dark, simply throw on a leather jacket to give your ensemble some glam-rock edge. Better still, if you live in slim-fitting pants during the colder months, you can easily wear them overtop for a head-turning, multi-textured look.

RINGS AND THINGS: MASKED IN MYSTERY

Let’s face it: we are professional, working women and the last impression you want to leave at your office work party or friend function is a sad attempt at being a naughty nurse. It won’t do you – or your social media feed – any favours, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the mystery for the function. We love masquerade masks that harken back to the renaissance movement of 16th century Venice where art and imagination collided and people took secret pleasure in embracing a certain enigma. It was all about offering up a bit less of you than more because curiosity was the ultimate purveyor of intrigue. Today, embrace that same sentiment with lace masks – in jeweled tones and feathered confections – that can act as the perfect accouterment for this year’s festivities. Pair the mask with only two things: a bold red lip and the sly smile to match. It may not be the most overt costume in the room, but rest assured guests will be curious, intrigued and captivated: all the things a woman should be to herself and to the world.

 

DETAILS DETAILS: INTO THE GLOSS

Rock the high-shine trend in high-style by investing in a few key patent pieces.

From Calvin Klein and Dior to Rag & Bone and Edun, one of the most conspicuous fall 2015 trends–from boots and bags to skirts and coats–is look-at-me patent leather, be it real or faux. There’s a reason why both stylish mods and fashion-forward punk rock rebels embraced all things patent–the high-shine finish is as attention-grabbing and versatile as it is durable on the dancefloor (or in the mosh-pit).

To get the look and take the trend by storm, invest in a few key pieces that let you rock the trend from day to night, office to off-the-clock. Whether you opt for a stiletto, a block heel, or anything in between, a black patent ankle bootie is the ultimate accessory to add to your ensemble to max out the trend. No matter what heel style you settle for, patent booties will look just as chic and sophisticated paired with dark jeans and a moto jacket by day as they will with a mini-dress and overcoat by night. Whether you’re headed to the office or en route to the cocktail bar, you can’t go wrong by throwing on an over-the-shoulder black patent bag to add extra lustre to the look.

 

 

Real Stella York Bride: Lauren + Anthony

From the destination to the amazing dessert bar, Real Bride, Lauren’s, wedding day was a family affair! She looked absolutely glowing in her Stella York strapless lace wedding dress, and she and her husband could not look more in love in their photos taken by photographer,Rebecca O’Grady.

From the bride: I just loved every bit about our wedding day! Marrying my best friend with all our closest friends and family there to celebrate with us. I wish I could do it all over again.

We had our wedding at Seaforth beach. My grandparents live there, so we had the ceremony overlooking the beach and then the reception in a beautiful, silk-lined marquee in their front yard. My mum and I planned most of it ourselves. We had a massive dessert bar, mostly made by friends and family. My husband rides dirt bikes so we had photos with the bikes which was fun.

I absolutely loved my Stella York wedding dress and received so many compliments on it.

Cheers to Lauren + Anthony!

Store of the Week: Bel Fiore Bridal in Marietta, Georgia

Celebrating its 10-year anniversary, Bel Fiore Bridal prides itself, and their success, on the personal relationships formed with brides. By treating and caring for each bride like she is part of the family, they are able to provide their customers with a unique experience, and help them find the best wedding dress style possible.  

 

We asked the ladies of Bel Fiore Bridal all about their Marietta bridal shop and what’s currently trending in the Georgia bridal market:

What wedding dress trends are hot right now in your area?

Brides are getting on board with the #teamexit trend! They’re loving wedding dresses with pretty backs, whether it’s a sheer illusion back, or a plunging low back.

What’s the number one thing your brides are asking for?

Lace has been our most asked-for detail on a wedding dress recently. Lace is great because it conveys “classic bride” and can bring about a vintage feel, but still be very updated, modern and sexy. Straps are also on the rise and will probably continue to be, which is great because not everyone wants strapless!

How do you make the bride’s experience memorable?

We believe that being engaged is one of the most exciting times, so wedding dress shopping should be equally as exciting! We have a fitting room prepared especially for each bride and her  bridal party, complete with a personalized welcome sign and mirrors that she won’t have to share with anyone else. Making the experience personal is a big way we try to make sure each bride feels special, and gets the attention she deserves.

What’s the most surprising request you’ve ever gotten from a bride?

Some brides want to stand out from the crowd and express their individuality.  We had one bride dye her wedding dress purple ombre.  Another bride requested our seamstress add black lace accents all over a gown.  They both came out looking fabulous!

What’s your favorite wedding story from one of your brides?

It’s hard to choose favorites, but we once helped a military bride who was planning her wedding in 10 days!  Her fiancé had just returned from boot camp and proposed to her, and they didn’t have a moment to spare. We found her perfect wedding dress, and as soon as she put it on we all knew this was the dress for her. Everyone’s eyes (including ours) filled with tears!

What is the best advice you would give a bride as she is shopping for her wedding gown?

Bring an excited attitude! You get to pick out the prettiest dress you’ll ever wear, and what is more exciting than that?  Also, remember to eat and drink, because shopping with low blood sugar is no fun. Bridal shopping is an experience all in itself and for once in your life, it’s all about you.  You’ll want to enjoy this special time!

9 Things to Consider When Choosing a Wedding Venue

Next to your wedding dress, choosing a wedding venue is one of the more important – and most expensive – wedding decisions you will make. Here are a few things to consider before booking your wedding venue.

1. Budget

Dancing the night away doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Simply start with a budget in mind and be open to options. For example, you can save money on multiple rental fees if you host your wedding and reception at the same place. (Keep in mind that a traditional religious ceremony may have to take place in a church; be sure to ask up front.) You also may want to consider getting married off-season. Many wedding venues offer discounts to brides and grooms who skip the summer reception.

2. Size

Make sure the venue’s size matches your guest list. A too-big venue means wasted space – and wasted money. On the flip side, a too-small venue will create overcrowding. Ask the event coordinator about the venue’s capacity number and aim to be just slightly under the capacity limit.

3. Style

Your wedding venue should match your personality. If you’re more traditional, go with a more traditional option, like a ballroom or reception hall. If you’re more creative, you may want to consider something out-of-the-box like the following:

• A Bridge: Yes, you heard it right. The U.S. is filled with beautiful (and no-longer-in-service) wooden bridges set atop babbling brooks and lush lands. If you’re considering an outdoor celebration, why not make the most of these retired rustics? (Just make sure to call your city’s Division of Public Services for permission first.)
• A Museum: Museums offer bold atriums and vast halls that can comfortably accommodate hundreds. Find a museum that matches your unique style, and check the museum’s website for details on rental policies.
• A Vineyard: In addition to serving (you guessed it) great wine, vineyards offer beautiful vistas of rolling, grape-accented hills. They’re the perfect spot to make memories with your friends and family.
• A Zoo: Lions, tigers and bears – oh, my! Zoos are a wonderfully unique place to celebrate your union. (As long as you don’t mind the occasional roar of a lion during the toast.) They’re naturally designed to offer open spaces, shade areas, and interesting conversations throughout the night.

4. Season

Just like style, you probably have a season that best matches your personality. If you and yours are free-spirited, consider an outdoor celebration during the late spring, early summer months. (Make sure to have an indoor back-up bad weather plan.) If you’re more traditional, consider an indoor winter wedding.

5. Food Quality

If your venue of choice provides in-house catering, sample their menu before paying the facility deposit. If you’re employing an off-site caterer, ask your venue to provide detailed information on how it handles food setup, presentation and service. You’ll also want to make sure your caterer can use the venue’s kitchen facilities.

6. Customer Service

Even the most perfect of places can be soured by bad service. If you’re skeptical about the venue’s response times, enthusiasm or customer service, trust your gut and move on to another venue.

7. Rules and Regulations

Venues have strict policies regarding alcohol, smoking and noise. If you want to serve alcohol at your reception, make sure your venue is licensed to serve. Also, make sure guests are aware of where they can and cannot smoke.

8. Accessibility

If seniors or individuals with disabilities are on your guest list, make sure your venue offers accommodations that meet their needs.

9. Fine Print

Don’t forget to get a confirmation of the cost, date, time and additional details in your final contract. Don’t sign your name on the dotted line until you fully understand what’s included and excluded.