I was absolutely blessed to help plan Ali & Brandon’s June nuptials at Port Cunnington Lodge. Ali came to me via referral (love the planning community) and was in search of some lead up planning assistance, given her, and now husband Brandon, live out West. From the moment we chatted over zoom, I knew Ali was going to be a breeze. Straight to the point, organized, not fussy about details, or an overall girlie girl (ironically, neither am I). Keen on planning their wedding on Lake of Bays, where she spent many of summers as a child. Determined to highlight the beauty and charm of Muskoka for all guests, who were traveling far and wide.

Wedding weekend was a total blast. Guests checked in exclusively to the resort on Friday, where it instantly felt like one big party. with the lake in sight, a welcome BBQ ready to go, and the bar open, its safe to say, fun was had! Ali’s goal was to partake in as much of the festivities as she could. Come wedding morning, part of me wondered if I would have to pull her away from a volleyball game, just to begin hair and make up. Truth be told, my kinda gal.

Now the part that ties many of these guests and members of the bridal party together, is the good old game of hockey! Ali & Brandon, both Elite players on the ice, made sure to kick of their reception in an epic way. Picture this, the unknowing bridesmaids and groomsmen, lined up in single file, awaiting their music cue. The DJ hits the lights, annnnnnd;

”So many times, it happens too fast
You trade your passion for glory
Don't lose your grip on the dreams of the past
You must fight just to keep them alive
It's the eye of the tiger, it's the thrill of the fight”…

Instant reaction, the hockey player sway, which naturally started to take place as each were announced.

In true, creative and well planned fashion, Ali & Brandon had their college game day announcer pre-record their bridal entrances “Introducing your starting line-up”.. with stats and facts about each individual entering the reception. Honestly, this was such a fun way to get all of these guests laughing and cheering, bonus points for it being a HUGE part of this bride and grooms love story.

Its safe to say this wedding weekend was a TOTAL success -
The only real debate that remains is what last name Ali is sporting on her jersey these days?