Bliss

2012-02-13T14:51:00.001-05:00

First Wedding at the Trump Toronto

Last night I had the pleasure of being the very first wedding planner to have a wedding at the newly opened Trump Hotel in Toronto. It was a memorable night for everyone involved, in particular for one of the most sweet and generous couples I have ever met. Surprisingly, our journey together began only 30 days earlier. Yes, it is possible to plan a wedding in 30 days, as long as you surround yourself with creative and inspiring vendors who are passionate about their jobs. Here is a sneak peek at the beautiful event:

A heartfelt THANK YOU goes out to all the vendors involved:
Venue - Trump International Hotel & Tower
Planner - Lisa Garofalo, Bliss Events
Flowers & Decor - Tara O'Grady, Bliss Events
Photography - Andreas Avdoulos, Andreas Photo Co
DJ - Michael Coombs, Michael Coombs Entertainment
Cake - Lori Hutchinson, The Caketress

2012-01-23T11:40:00.003-05:00

Toronto Life Weddings Guide

Bliss is proud to be listed in Toronto Life Weddings 2012! Get your guide to the best in the wedding industry!

2012-01-05T12:31:00.001-05:00

Laughter and Love at the Gardiner Museum

I love to laugh. I love clients who love to laugh. It makes the stress of planning a wedding a little bit easier and the heart a little lighter. Back in September, Laura & Andrew had a wedding full of laughter. They have to be one of the nicest couples I have ever had the pleasure to work with, plus their families were super cute too! In every photo the wonderful Chris Bodnar took, someone has a huge smile on their face. Take a look at the hightlights from the day on Chris' blog at chrisbodnarphotoblog.com. They will make you smile, I promise. Here is my favourite -

2012-01-05T12:28:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year

Bliss is wishing all of it's current clients, past clients, industry friends and those whose paths we have yet to cross a wonderful 2012!

2011-11-09T15:39:00.002-05:00

Aeroplan Magazine - Show & Tell

Anyone planning on taking a trip this upcoming holiday season? If you're flying Air Canada make sure to pick up a copy of their Show & Tell magazine. Tara's giving step-by-step advice as to how to throw the perfect soiree in the article "The Art of the Party". Let's toast to that!

2011-11-08T15:22:00.001-05:00

ISES Toronto 2011 Gala

Thank you to the ISES Toronto, The International Special Events Society, team for putting on a fabulous gala event at 99 Sudbury last night. It was incredible to sit in a room with over 100 event industry leaders. A special thank you to ISES Toronto President, Michael Coombs for being a great master of ceremony. As you can tell, us Bliss ladies had a blast!

2011-11-03T16:35:00.001-04:00

Good-bye Whitney

After 4 wonderful years working at Bliss, we are sad to say good-bye to an amazing co-worker and friend. Last night, at the Bliss office, we held a surprise going away party for Whitney to show our appreciation for all of her hard work over the years. A big thank you to everyone who helped make the evening a ton of fun: Karlo at Exclusive Affair for the rentals, Miki at FOS for the beautiful linens, Rodney at Hey Meatball for the delicious food, Tom & Taylor at Nth Degree for the great music, and Andreas for the fun photos.

Whitney - we'll miss you and good luck in NYC!

The Bliss Team

2011-10-28T12:56:00.002-04:00

Women for Women's

On Friday, October 28th at The Sheraton Centre in Toronto, women are uniting in support of the Women's College Hospital Fund. Women's College Hospital is determined to build a hospital like no other. One that is dedicated to the needs of women and revolutionizing health care. The inaugural Women for Women's Luncheon hopes to be a stepping stone in raising $70 million in support of the redevelopment of their Hospital.

Bliss Events was honoured to be able to donate over 75 centerpieces to adorn each guest table, alongside exquisite Women for Women's pink bricks. By purchasing a brick you will help build the future of health care for women.

Every brick plays its part in laying the foundation of the future.

2011-10-24T18:24:00.002-04:00

Niagara-on-the-Lake Wedding

I had the pleasure of meeting Michelle about one month before she was set to marry her handsome husband-to-be Steve. I couldn't believe Michelle and Steve were planning a wedding in Niagara-on-the-Lake, while also taking care of their adorable 6 month old baby. They truly are a super couple! After a whirlwind month, the wedding day arrived and could not have been more perfect! From the weather, to the stunning bride, to the heart felt speeches. It was a pleasure getting to know Michelle, Steve and their families.

This great day could not have happened without some amazing vendors:
Event Venue: Erin Hughes of Chateau Des Charmes (catered by Pillar & Post)
Photographer: Robyn S. Russell
Florist: Fascination & Rosery
Cake: Willow Cakes and Pastries
Entertainment: Spirit of Sound
Transportation: NCT Transportation

2011-10-06T12:32:00.003-04:00

Candy Stations

Who would have thought that candy stations would have survived the industry for as long as they have. There is no shortage of brides and grooms who decide to provide their guests with sugary sweets, instead of a traditional favour at the end of the night. All of us Bliss ladies are crazy for candy, so anytime we have the chance to design a candy station we get a slight sugar high. Here is one of our favourite candy stations we created from conception to completion. A little sketch can take on a life of it's own...

Sketch: front view

Reality: back view

2011-09-07T14:43:00.001-04:00

On a chilly day in November, the wonderful Aliya & Eric and their closest family and friends celebrated their beautiful wedding. Lisa of Bliss Events had the pleasure of coordinating this event for them. You can take a sneak peek into their multi-day and multi-cultural celebration on www.wedluxe.com.

2011-08-10T11:39:00.001-04:00

Lawn Bowling at RCYC

On a very hot and muggy Saturday in July, the lovely Stephanie and Rob tied the knot at the stunning Knox College Chapel. Family and friends then took a much needed breezy boat ride across Lake Ontario to one of our favourite venues - the Royal Canadian Yacht Club. The view of the Toronto skyline from the Rose Garden at RCYC is unparalleled. Even if you spent your whole life in Toronto, it still takes your breath away. While guests enjoyed the view and some cocktails, the bridal walked around the grounds to take some photos. Looks like fun!

Photo courtesy of Chris Bodnar Photography

2011-07-29T13:32:00.006-04:00

Style Me Pretty is now in Canada!

One of our favourite sources of wedding inspiration has expanded into Canada. Every day a new wedding blog will be posted! We're loving the Canadian representation in the wedding world. Check our Style Me Pretty Canada at:

www.stylemepretty.com/canada-weddings

2011-07-13T15:06:00.000-04:00

Congratulations Forough and Rob!

Forough and Rob celebrated their special day at the Boulevard Club, on Saturday June 4^th. The view overlooking the water was nothing short of romantic. The couple was very lucky to have Rebecca Wood (www.RebeccaWood.ca) as their photographer; she captured the simplicity and elegance of that beautiful day. Our own Whitney of Bliss ensured the beautiful couple and their guests had an amazing and memorable time as well. Congratulations Forough and Rob!

Forough and Rob’s wedding was also featured on The Wedding Co. blog:

http://www.theweddingco.com/2011/07/all-in-the-family/

To see more photos, please visit:

http://rwca.squarespace.com/journal/category/weddings

2011-06-08T14:52:00.001-04:00

Tara O'Grady - Bamboo Magazine's new "Social Call Columnist"!

As of this Spring, our own Tara of Bliss is the new “Social Call Columnist” for Bamboo Magazine!

Bamboo Magazine (http://www.bamboo-magazine.com/) is a forward-thinking, eco-conscious online magazine that features contemporary fashion, beauty, food, entertainment, travel, lifestyle, and more… Bamboo started in spring 2010, and continues to build upon the belief that “there is no need to compromise lifestyle, beauty and fashion choices in order to be conscientious”.

Cake design by Diana Shin of Papillon Cakes (http://www.papilloncakes.ca/)
Rentals by Exclusive Affair Rentals (http://www.exclusiveaffair.com/)

Tara loves to entertain friends and family and sees every detail as an opportunity for beauty, comfort and inspiration. Drawing from Mother Nature's vast spectrum of colour, texture, flavour and bounty is her passion. Tune in every month for a new article on the latest trends in décor and entertaining (all while being eco-conscious) brought to you by Tara. Here’s her latest piece, “Sweet Summer Strawberries”: http://www.bamboo-magazine.com/lifestyle/sweet-summer-strawberries/

2011-06-07T17:01:00.000-04:00

Nancy and David's Wedding

One of Toronto's best photographers, Johnny Lam of Johnny Lam Photography, captured many beautiful moments on Nancy and David's wedding day. Their reception was held at Graydon Hall; where the food, staff, and venue are simply exquisite and a pleasure to work with. Our very own Whitney of Bliss made sure the beautiful couple would be able look back on this special occasion with nothing but happiness and blissful memories. Congratulations Nancy and David!

To see more photos from the wedding: http://johnnylamphoto.com/?p=3164.

2011-05-26T16:49:00.000-04:00

Tea-Length Dresses Make a Come-back!

Summer is approaching, and a recent trend seems to have borrowed from the past - tea-length dresses (big in the 1950s) have found a place in weddings now! Tea-length wedding dresses are no longer reserved for destination weddings. Many brides opt for the fun, flirty, yet sophisticated look that these dresses bring.

(Left to right: Monique Lhullier, Oscar de la Renta, Priscilla of Boston)

Designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Monique Lhullier, and Priscilla of Boston have embraced the shorter hemline, and so have many of our Canadian designers - Catherline Langlois, Sarah Houston, and Romona Keveza just to name a few.

(Left to right: Sarah Houston, Catherine Langlois, Romona Keveza)

Besides their aesthetic appeal, they have many other pros as well - lower cost, cooler in hot weather, a lot more dance-friendly, and they let you show off those gorgeous shoes!

2011-05-11T10:17:00.000-04:00

Check out how to be a Smart and Fabulous Bride with great tips and techniques from the Smart Cookies.

2011-05-10T12:16:00.000-04:00

Old, almost-forgotten bridesmaid dress

The Dessy Group came up with a great service to help you make the most out of your old bridesmaid dresses! NewlyMaid (www.NewlyMaid.com) let’s you trade in your old dress for a new little black dress. Your old dress will be recycled or donated to charity – so no wasting here! They have many styles to choose from, and you can keep trading your NewlyMaid dress in for a new one as often as you like!

The company is based out of New York and currently only offers service within the US, but they do plan to expand their availability to Canada and Europe in the future (Hopefully soon!).

2011-05-05T10:07:00.000-04:00

Beautiful spring flowers courtesy of Bliss Events decor devision!

2011-05-03T09:55:00.000-04:00

Sunday, May 8th is Mother's day! What will you be doing to show her your love?

Let's show all the mothers in the world how much we appreciate them!

2011-05-03T09:33:00.000-04:00

Kate walked down the aisle in a gorgeous wedding dress that was designed by British designer Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen¹s Fashion House. Kate hoped to achieve a look that combined tradition and modernity; the satin and white ivory gazar combined with the intricate details of the hand-made lace appliqués (done by the Royal School of Needlework) could not have been more perfect! The train measured almost nine feet long, and her dress was inspired by the idea of an opening flower. Pippa's beautiful bridesmaids dress was also designed by Sarah Burton.

2011-05-01T12:38:00.000-04:00

Bliss is Moving!!!

Next week, we are moving to our new home at 60 Sumach Street (2 blocks east of our current location)! We seem to have grown out of our space after 3 wonderful years at 400 King Street East. We are excited for this new journey; however, we’re also sad to leave this historic building…

More than a century ago, 400 King Street East used to be home to “Cork’s Cash Grocery”. Theodore Pringle Loblaw (1873-1933) started his career in the grocery business at the age of 17 when he got his first job working at “Cork’s Cash Grocery”. Today, Loblaw Companies Limited is Canada’s largest food distributor! (To read more, click on the article)

Our new location is also interesting and unique in its very own way; 60 Sumach Street is also known as “The Magic Building”. We look forward to settling into our new home!

2011-04-29T16:18:00.000-04:00

Simply stunning in every single way. Such poise and elegance - a true inspiration of beauty and bliss.

2011-04-25T16:23:00.001-04:00

In case you missed Tara O'Grady on The Marilyn Dennis Show or Lisa Garofalo on CBC Morning News, here are the links...

The Mariyn Dennis Show: http://www.marilyn.ca/Video.aspx#clip454685&vp75897
CBC News: http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/News/1221258968/ID=1896885973

2011-04-21T15:07:00.003-04:00

The countdown to the Royal Wedding has begun!
Only 8 days left!

Check out Lisa Garofalo of Bliss Events on CBC morning news on Monday, April 25th, starting at 7am. She'll be discussing wedding trends that will result from the royal wedding.

2011-04-20T11:43:00.005-04:00

Oscar award winner and all around classy lady, Natalie Portman recently became engaged to her Black Swan co-star Benjamin Millepied. This one-of-a kind ring was thoughtfully designed by Millepied and friend Jamie Wolf, former ballet dancer turned jewellery designer, to fit her vegan lifestyle. This $35,000 ring was created using an antique centre stone, recycled platinum and conflict free pavé diamonds, proving that there is a growing trend using old stones in a modern setting.

2011-04-19T14:31:00.003-04:00

Make sure you don't miss our very own Tara O'Grady this Friday, April 22nd on The Marilyn Dennis Show! Weekdays at 10am ET & 2pm ET on CTV, 5pm ET on /A\ and live streamed online at 10am ET.

"We’re turning your white wedding, green! Tara O’Grady from Bliss Events stops by to teach us eco wedding trends inspired by celebrities, how to upcycle your jewelry and amazing organic wedding cakes."

2011-04-15T13:57:00.006-04:00

Pink is the ultimate wedding colour – it’s light, it’s soft, it’s girly – exactly like my bride Elizabeth. Pink paired with ivory and gold is totally romantic. Elizabeth and Josh, "the most fun couple ever", celebrated their wedding on Saturday, April 9^th, 2011 at the King Edward Hotel, in the heart of downtown Toronto. I was lucky enough to help them plan the big day from the very beginning and it could not have been more perfect! It was full of love, laughter, surprises and lots of sunshine.

Thank you to all the phenomenal vendors who made the day a success.

Photography: andreasphoto.ca
Floral Design and Drapery: www.coolgreenandshady.com
Candelabras: www.fosdecor.com
Linens: www.aroundthetable.ca
DJ: www.mintevents.ca
Videography: www.piperstudios.com
Wedding cake: family friend
Hair and Make-up: www.featuringyouspa.com
Stationary (table names & seating chart): www.laurakdesign.com

2011-03-21T09:32:00.004-04:00

Bliss Moving Sale

Bliss Spring Cleaning has begun.
In anticipation of our new offices, we are offering great
discounts on existing inventory.

From single to multiple items, take advantage of
our drastically reduced prices.
Feel free to stop by 400 King Street East or call us today.
Please ask about our volume discounts, we would love to hear from you !
(All items pictured from $1 to $20 )

Perfect timing for the special couples upcoming casual wedding events.
Brides mini-T's and Groom baseball caps
NOW ONLY: $10.00 each.

T's available in white, blush, lavender & powder blue
Caps black only

2011-03-20T19:45:00.003-04:00

Oscar has done it again! I absolutely love this fresh, flirty look for sassy spring/summer brides.

2011-03-16T12:41:00.007-04:00

"May you be poor in misfortune, rich in blessings, slow to make enemies, and quick to make friends." - Irish Blessing

Happy St. Patricks Day!
- the Bliss team

2011-03-11T15:04:00.000-05:00

2011-03-08T16:03:00.000-05:00

Every woman loves a little bling, especially our Bliss brides. Enjoy!

2011-03-04T11:28:00.000-05:00

2011-03-02T15:34:00.004-05:00

Our talented clients, Barry and James, opted to send out a Save the Date card to their guests. James made the card personal by sketching out their chosen venue, Jamie Kennedy At The Gardiner. This creative invitation was constructed by the wonderfully talented Christine Flynn from Love the Design.

2011-02-24T14:25:00.003-05:00

Beautiful shoes worn by our even more beautiful Bliss brides.

2011-02-24T07:49:00.001-05:00

2011-02-22T16:21:00.000-05:00

2011-02-08T09:39:00.005-05:00

Bliss is thrilled to be included in the second annual Toronto Life Wedding Guide. Thank-you Toronto!!

2010-12-16T10:29:00.004-05:00

Bliss pro planner, Lisa Garofalo was featured in the National Post on December 3^rd, 2010. In the article, Lisa expressed that certain times of the year “can be such a stressful time and hiring an event planner will allow less stress and an easier transition into the holiday season.” Hiring a wedding planner will allow for new and unique ideas to blossom to make your special day picture perfect.

2010-12-06T14:49:00.014-05:00

On July 3^rd, 2010 Toni and Wallace tied the knot at the Granite Club. Many of their guests ranted and raved about their interactive, and yummy candy station! Toni and Wallace chose some of their favourite sweets and displayed them in a trendy fashion, something that would reflect their style.

The happy couple allowed their guests to indulge in their childhood memories, with this eye catching, and tasty station!

A special thank you goes out to Ikonica for capturing the mouth-watering candy station.

2010-11-17T16:42:00.001-05:00

On Tuesday, November 16^th, 2010 Tara O’Grady was interviewed to discuss the Royal Wedding for CBC Television on the morning the engagement was announced. Kate Middleton and Prince Williams met 8 years ago as students at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. Kate now gets the privilege of wearing the beloved heirloom that Princess Diana once wore. The ring is an oval sapphire surrounded by diamonds. William expressed to the media how important it is to him that Kate wears his mother’s ring. He said that it was a way to ensure his mother did not miss out on the engagement and they excitement. This is definitely the most talked about wedding, and will continue to be until the Spring/Summer wedding of 2011 in England. Lets see what the Bliss ladies have to say…

Whitney Pizale thinks that Kate Middleton is going to try and bring in more of a modern touch to the wedding day. Lisa Garofalo thinks that Kate’s wedding dress is going to be different from traditional royal wedding dresses, and she’s curious to see if Kate will choose a British designer. Kate and William seem like a really fun couple, and she can see them having some type of fun entertainment at their wedding seeing that they have been to so many places in the world. Lisa is also quite curious to how William is going to bring his mother into the wedding…Diana’s tiara? Veil? Only time will tell!

Brittney Izard thinks that Kate and Williams wedding will be traditional with a twist. Making sure to keep all of the British elements, while adding in a little bit of Kate’s modern touch.

2010-11-09T10:07:00.017-05:00

On Monday, November 1st, we had the privilege of working with savvy law firm Gilbert’s LLP on their annual student soiree. This is the 7th year that we’ve worked with Gilbert’s whose parties are known as the very best of the city’s law firms. This years theme was “Cool Blue” featuring the Gilbert’s colours, Blue & White. Thanks to Tom of Nth Degree, for bringing the party to life with his LED’s and Chef Rod the Bod Bowers for another stellar catering job.

2010-10-21T12:39:00.005-04:00

Thanksgiving this year was full of happiness and love for Gillian & Jim as they tied the knot on Saturday, October 9th, 2010. Gillian & Jim were married at McLean House at the Estates of Sunnybrook, with an intimate gathering with 60 of their closest friends and family.

Their decor consisted of soft feminine florals in varying shades of pink, while Bliss had the honour in providing the flowers.

All of the wonderful photos that helped make their day memorable were courtesy of Cathy from captureweddingphotography.com

2010-09-30T15:25:00.006-04:00

Eco-friendly weddings are the new rising trends for eco-conscious couples! There are plenty of ways for couples to give thanks to their guests while still sticking to their eco-friendly lifestyle. Some great ideas could include: Personalized Eco-friendly Wildflower Seed Packets, Natural Bamboo Eco-friendly Coasters, Eco-friendly Note Pads, and Pencils, or even Pure Beeswax Candles. So when thinking of your wedding favors, its always a great idea to think of the environment!

2010-09-29T11:19:00.007-04:00

On Saturday, September 11^th, 2010 the ladies from Bliss, Lisa and Whitney set out on a quest. A French Fry Quest! Rumor had it that Brazen Head Pub, Poutini’s House of Poutine, and the Drake Hotel had the best french fries in town. Lisa, and Whitney, then set out on the quest to find the best french fries! Their first stop was to Brazen Head Pub in Liberty Village where it was “love at first sight”. Not only did they have fantastic french fries, their sweet potato fries were to die for. Next they took off to Poutini’s House of Poutine located on Queen Street West. They found their fries to be delicious, AND they were happy to find out that they offered vegan cheese and gluten free gravy (for all you health nuts out there!). Last, but not least they went for a stroll down the street to visit the Drake Hotel. Although their tummies cried out that they were full, the ladies still ended up eating the fries so fast that there was no time to take a photo!

As for the winner you may ask - Brazen Head Pub! Sometimes the first is always the best.

2010-09-20T10:22:00.002-04:00

Tara O’Grady with guest host, Erin Davis set the perfect table. 9am Cityline, Monday, September 20th, 2010.

2010-09-15T11:20:00.007-04:00

Vintage & Haute Couture is the look of the season for bride's this year! Wearing a hair accessory is the perfect way to add that touch of couture to your day. Hair accessories are no longer looked at as just “hair accessories", rather now the perfect finishing touch; the crowning glory of your wardrobe. Brides can find high fashion hair accessories for all occasions! From simple elegance, to glitz & glamour, every bride should walk down the aisle with that extra touch of vintage couture.

2010-09-08T15:29:00.007-04:00

Lisa & Jeff are a very cute couple! They were married at the beautiful Royal Conservatory of Music on August 7th, 2010. The bride wanted a centrepiece that incorporated ferns. She loves anything earthy so Susan put together a decor & floral look that evoked a natural yet sophisticated theme. The centrepieces were an organic arrangement of Cymbidiums, Hydrangea, Holly & Asparagus Ferns placed in a dark wood vase. The linens were a cafe au lait colour and other wood elements were brought in with the mahogany Chiavari chairs and Rattan chargers. The couple gave cute little saplings to their guests as favours.

Below is a picture of Jeff and his groomsmen looking sharp. We love the sneakers!

2010-08-31T10:55:00.002-04:00

American Idols favourite starlet; Carrie Underwood walked down the aisle to Canada’s pro hockey player; Mike Fisher on July 10, 2010 at the Ritz Carlton Reynolds Plantation, in Georgia. Carrie, and Mike celebrated their day with 250 of their closest friends and family. Carrie got to show off her stunning Chantilly lace, and silk organza Monique Lhuillier gown, along with a diamond tiara, which was a gift from Mike to his new Bride to be. The Newlyweds shared their first dace to “Love Never Fails” by Brandon Heath, and after enjoyed a cupcake tower that was made by one of Carrie’s bridesmaids. Their night exceeded all hopes, and ended with smiles of happiness, and love.

2010-08-30T11:11:00.005-04:00

One of Bliss’ finest; Whitney Pizale was featured in the Fall/Winter 2010 Today’s Bride magazine. Whitney was found “telling tales” with seven other wedding planners about their most memorable weddings!

2010-08-27T12:29:00.012-04:00

Sophistication is the only word that could possibly describe Vera Wang’s new Fall 2010 Bridal Collection. Elegant, ethereal gowns in white and blush creams are accented by lace from this summer’s collection. Keeping with tradition, the gowns are gathered and yet made of light flowing fabrics that make every woman feel like a princess. Vera Wang has a way of incorporating elegance into each one of her masterpieces, and this fall she has done it again! Brides can add a black shear sash around the waist or chic full-length leather gloves, creating a picture perfect Vogue cover page! No matter if you imagine your day to be traditionally elegant, or stunningly chic, Vera Wang is able to make you sparkle on your wedding day!

2010-08-25T09:43:00.024-04:00

Nina & Denys met in the checkout line at Canadian Tire. He was buying a tarp and she a flashlight. Flash forward three years and here they are walking down the aisle at their wedding on August 7th, 2010. The intimate nuptial was held at McLean House at the Estates of Sunnybrook.

The bride looked beautiful and wore a gorgeous lace dress by Toronto based designer Catherine Langlois and carried an elegant bouquet of Cool Water roses. Denys cut a very dashing figure and had a maroon Cymbidium boutonniere.

All the bridal party flowers and centrepieces were created by the hard-working design team here at Bliss.

Denys' pretty daughter Sarah was a bridesmaid and here she is looking lovely and holding her & Nina's bouquets. I loved her soft dove grey dress.

The happy couple signing the documents. Hurrah!

The colourful centrepieces were composed of Gerber Daisies, Hydrangea, Lisianthus, Alstroemeria, Calla Lilies, Dahlias & Roses. Guests commented on how nice it was to see such vibrant flowers at a wedding.

The food & service at McLean House is top-notch and everyone enjoyed a delicious meal.

Nina & Denys wanted their cake to reflect their love of cycling. Diana Shin of Papillon Cakes created this awesome topsy-turvy cake. If you look closely you will see that it is a hill with trees and a road going up. Their cute cake topper was a bride & groom on a bicycle. Not only are Diana's creations works of art they taste delicious! Take a look at more of her amazing cakes at:

http://www.papilloncakes.ca/

The newlyweds are currently enjoying their honeymoon cycling their way through the South of France!

2010-08-24T10:23:00.023-04:00

Colleen & Leslie were married on July 3rd, 2010 on the rooftop at Ontario Place. It was a gorgeous (but gusty) sunny day with the blue water of Lake Ontario in the background. Luckily the canopy was secured to the railings or it might of blown away! The ceremony was very touching and I am honoured to have been a part of it.

After the cocktail hour guests were ushered down to the Trillium Room for dinner. The centerpieces were spectacular and many guests commented on them.

Victor and the design team at Bliss did another great job!

After dessert the couple cut their cake. This was a bit of a nail biting moment for me because just as they put the knife to the cake a pryo-waterfall (technical term) was to cascade from the roof down over the floor to ceiling windows. The timing had to be perfect. I had my walkie-talkie and cued the technician on the roof. It worked out perfectly and the guests were so surprised. There were many oohs & aahs. What a great night!

2010-08-16T12:42:00.012-04:00

Our very own Whitney Pizale was featured in an article by The Globe and Mail on Wednesday, August 4th, 2010 discussing the trend of serving savoury grilled cheese sandwiches at weddings:

Lowbrow Grilled Cheese Reigns Supreme at Weddings

Bring on the grease: Guests at Chelsea Clinton and Marc Mezvinsky’s wedding got a 2 a.m. snack of grilled cheese sandwiches, brownies and popcorn for their rides home this past weekend.

Beyond Chelsea’s bash, the lowbrow grilled cheese is reigning supreme as late-night snack of choice at weddings this summer. “It’s greasy, filling and it’s got the bread. It sucks up all the alcohol,” says Whitney Pizale, a wedding planner with Bliss in Toronto.

Salty, cheesy comfort food is just what the doctor ordered for guests preparing to stare down their hangovers, says Ms. Pizale.

The grilled cheese has usurped the slider, a late-night favourite last summer, along with individual servings of French fries.

“Pretty much everybody does late-night stations now,” says Ms. Pizale, particularly if the crowd likes the drink.

Nostalgia factors in big for bleary-eyed revellers: The gooey grilled cheese is a childhood staple. So are milk and cookies and pie, other rising late-night favourites, says Catherine Lash, creative director of The Wedding Co.

Ms. Pizale will be going a cereal station featuring sugary varieties like Captain Crunch and Cocoa Puffs at a September wedding.

Retro, carnivalesque themes also feature big this summer - think old-style hot dog carts, candy floss and doughnut stations and poutine, albeit the gourmet variety.

The trashy goods replace the more austere offerings of fruit and mini-pastries at late-night receptions of yore. “It just doesn’t really do it,” says Ms. Pizale.

Ultimately, the down-home snacks serve as “a reflection of you as a couple,” says Mr. Lash. “What do you go home and eat late at night?”

Zosia Bielski

2010-06-21T15:01:00.005-04:00

Chairman’s Boardroom – Chinese tea ceremony

Grand Banking Hall - Reception

Here at Bliss we just love seeing a couple's vision come true for their big day! Bliss consultant Lisa Garofalo made sure every detail was just right for Sharon and Andy's wedding this past Saturday June 19th at One King West Hotel in the heart of Toronto. The flowers & decor provided by Bliss were the perfect accents for this beautiful "Grand Journey" themed wedding. Lucky friends and family came from around the world and the couple could not have been more thrilled with how the day turned out! To see more photos from this gorgeous wedding, check out www.andreasphoto.net

2010-06-01T15:58:00.002-04:00

Tara O'Grady with Foundation Founder, Ron White

Tara O'Grady with Ben Mulroney.

Royal de Versaille Raffle Watch Model.

Presentation Stage featuring the Canadian Tenors, Andy Kim, Pianist Alex Seredenko & George Stroumboulopoulos as the evenings auctioneer.

Jamie Kennedy

Bliss Decor & White Carpet

Bliss recently had the pleasure of teaming up with the Ron White Foundation to help plan the second annual White Knight Gala. After the success of White Knight 2009, Bliss owner Tara O’Grady could not have been more thrilled to step in as event coordinator once again. From the all white decor to the design, Bliss helped make White Knight 2010 a success! Over 300 guests came out to support the foundation making this fabulous white affair one not to be missed!

Read what the Globe and Mail had to say below:

White Knight:

The mandatory white, summer cocktail attire was in full effect as guests enjoyed a white carpet reception with Ben Mulroney, the familiar voice of Leslie Roberts as entertainment emcee, and a live auction with George Stroumboulopoulos. Funds raised through The Ron White Foundation will support Free The Children's Go Local - a youth empowerment and leadership program.
www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/toronto/white-knight/article1584997/

2010-06-01T15:46:00.009-04:00

The perfect flower arrangements for a Sunday afternoon baby shower, spring

blooms in vintage china tea cups. Flowers provided by Bliss, www.blissevents.ca

Whimsical cake provided by Roxy Cakes:www.roxycakes.ca

2010-04-20T10:47:00.004-04:00

Tara O’Grady, Bliss’ owner and planner extraordinaire, had the pleasure of designing a surprise 30th birthday party last month at a private residence in the Bridal Path. The hit of the 1980s themed party wasn’t just the funky costumes, retro music or stylish lounge furniture, but rather the illuminated LED dance floor! Who wouldn’t want to light up their party and dance atop any colour of the rainbow? It’s a great way to add a little pizzazz to any wedding receptions, parties and corporate events.

2010-03-24T12:29:00.009-04:00

The Bliss office recently had the chance to meet with Meredith Shaw (a.k.a. Muffy) of muffymade. She has the sweetest assortment of hand-drawn greeting cards, wrapping paper, mugs, lip gloss, and more! These one-of-a-kind items are a great touch to any celebration, especially a bridal shower or wedding. Muffy's collection can be found at: muffymade.com.

2010-03-19T10:55:00.010-04:00

Bliss had the pleasure of being mentioned in the first ever edition of Toronto Life magazine's Wedding Guide 2010:

BLISS
Professionalism is the mark of Tara O’Grady’s company. Bliss’s staff of four, including an in-house florist, consult from their downtown studio, pulling off six-tent high-society extravaganzas as well as small out-of-town gatherings in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Clients’ budgets range from $50,000 to $250,000. Wedding day service from $1750; full service with a senior wedding planner costs 15 per cent of event budget. 400 King St. E. (at Sackville St.). 416-323-3353.

2010-03-08T13:42:00.001-05:00

Our dear friend Diana Shin of Papillon Cakes has created the most delicious new dessert called “The Cupcake Pop”. These cupcake pops are like little bites of heaven; moist, dense cake covered in chocolate which gives just the right amount of crackle and texture when you bite into it. They are perfect for guest favours, as a part of a sweet table, for bridal showers, or as thank you gifts for your wedding party. Check out her website for more of her beautifully designed cakes at: www.papilloncakes.ca.