Mini Spring Show pics!

arOka Vintage was definitely the star of our Mini Spring Pop-Up Show.  With a very well put together booth and a gorgeous school themed photo booth, Dawna Graham showed off just a taste of what arOka Vintage is capable of.

arOka Vintage is situated in Port Moody and with a shop filled with true antique finds, the store is a mecca for anyone wishing to host a vintage themed wedding.

Working together with arOka, sweet earth photographics took the photos for our guests using the ‘old school’ props.  The photo booth was well received and everyone received their photos shortly after the show.

On the main floor Pure Magnolia along with Spark Jewelry had dresses, accessories and jewelry to try on. 

I learned a lot from bcdj and their great packages are custom made for the style of each couple and they run their business sustainably.    The Shark Truth let couples know of their fantastic honeymoon prize of a trip to the Galapagos Islands for those wishing to forgo shark fin soup.  EP!C gave away tickets for the upcoming show on Mother’s Day weekend and Arbonne International offered earth friendly make-up.

Jim Walton offered  handmade and repurposed jewelry and table number holders from sterling silver cutlery.  His jewelry is exquisite and what better way to reuse family antiques then have Jim mold them into new items.  arOka Vintage now carries Jim’s jewelry and can be found in the Port Moody store.

Fairy Cakes offer vegan cupcakes made from locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.   Their shop on Fraser Street allows them to be very accessible to discerning couples.  One of the very yummy cupcakes pictured above sits on the beautiful ceramic wares of eikcam Designs.  Often found at Fairy Cakes is Zimt Artisan Chocolates who offer a very healthy and yummy alternative to wedding favours.

Our donation recipient for this year is The Vancouver Food Bank and we are very grateful to make a financial contribution to their cause.

I again want to thank the very dedicated team of vollunteers who help set up and manage the fair every year.

Locally inspired accessible Art.

Bird on a Wire is a mecca for all things local, but most specifically locally produced art.  From their website, “We are the ‘Yes’ store for artisans and those looking for locally made arts and crafts”.  Besides Bird on a Wire being amazing in itself, why are we interested?  Art is accessible, art is affordable and for the couple who has everything art can purchased as part of your wedding registry.

Karen opened Bird on a Wire in October of 2010 with 42 artists.  Now the store boasts 150 artists and acts also as a community meeting place for knitters and crafters alike.   Karen’s mandate is to change starving artists into thriving artists and she is doing a very fine job indeed.

When Karen was first inspired to open her business it was to answer a calling to build community through creativity; to create a space where “dreams can flower, where one can stir the imagination and feed the soul”.  What I also love about her vision is that she wishes to keep alive traditions and techniques from the past.  The store contains upcycled, recycled and handcrafted wares from a wide range of artists and artisans.

For couples, Karen will set up a wedding registry and that beautiful piece of art that you have spied on Bird’s wall can be yours.  Art can move quickly though so keep abreast of the “spotlight on artists” series through the store’s blog and website.  Karen keeps on top of local artists and is always visiting local galleries and artist’s own studios so the store’s walls will have something to match anyone’s tastes.  I currently am impressed with Lori Bagneres’ crow paintings such as the large one pictured above. 

It is not just art that should entice you to visit.  The store supports many diverse artisans from fabric artists, jewellers, soap makers, ceramic artists ( Grace Lee of eikcam is also shown above), wood workers and so much more.  I personally always search for locally produced goods when purchasing gifts.  Ask your family and friends to do the same.  Why register at Home Sense or The Bay when you can choose to support your local community and receive one of a kind creations.

Karen’s suggestion for your art choice, “buy it because it moves you” and not simply as an investment. With the criteria for the art work present being produced within a 100m radius of Vancouver and of good quality, you are sure to be investing instead in your local community.  With all the cutbacks to the local art scene it is up to the community around to support our local artists and artisans. 

The store is constantly growing and in the long term we may see more Bird on a Wire creations popping up in the city.  That can only be a good thing. 

I would like to thank Karen for sharing her story and the inspiration behind Bird on a Wire.

article by Shona Dion, sweet earth photographics

 

 

 

 

True Vintage Inspirations

Finding vintage table settings and decor is like  treasure hunting.  It is a dedicated pastime which requires a commitment.  Not all of us have time to dedicate to the search.

For those couples wishing to add vintage elements to their wedding need look no further than Aroka Vintage.  Dawna Graham researched and collected for 2 years before opening the first Aroka Vintage in New Westminster.  Aroka Vintage is now located at 2231 Clarke Street in Port Moody in a beautiful old house that is a storefront for not only the incredibly tableware and vintage decor collection, but also a treasure trove of true vintage finds and local artisan creations.  This collection includes themes for 1930′s inspired weddings, place settings of fine bone china for up 150 guests, furniture, a harvest table, quirky novelty items such as antique bingo cages, chalkboards, table settings and more.

Aroka’s new website will be up in April 2012 with photos of this extensive collection.

Dawna Graham has a unique love of vintage and has a passionate, undying love for the past.  She is captivated by the stories that objects leave behind.  The store is still evolving but trust that only true vintage items are found in Aroka.  No reproductions and no claims are made on items unless Dawna is 100% certain.  Aroka Vintage will always offer authentic finds and this will never be compromised.

The few local artisans that Dawna carries in her store have vintage elements in their creations whether the jewelry be reworked or repurposed or items found made into new.  “Inky & Boots“, “Secrets From the Cove“, ” Whatever Lola Wants…” are a few of  the artists Aroka Vintage carries.  ”There is no labour of love” without the upcycling and handmade element in the items she carries.

Dawna herself creates handmade treasures such as an updated 1970′s chandelier revamped with vintage piano sheets or vintage watchpocket faces sitting atop of pinwheels made from antique music sheets.  Everything she creates for the store must also include making something from something old.

By late spring and summer Aroka Vintage will be host to bridal shows, tea parties and small weddings.  With a working kitchen,bathroom and a large backyard along with Dawna’s vintage decor the space will welcome a myriad of visitors. 

Aroka Vintage only has wedding dresses that have passed inspection by Dawna.  All items in the boutique ‘bridal room’ have been scrutinized, are nearly flawless and are professionally cleaned.   Dawna specializes in her vintage finds and does not carry dresses that may compete with other bridal stores.  Her only compromise is carrying the vintage inspired handmade creations of Pure Magnolia.   

The lace gloves and stockings, purses, hats and feather fasteners are near mint. The bloomers, jewelry, handkerchiefs and pillows are all unique finds.  Aroka also has formal dresses which can be worn by the bridal party or simply because of a love of vintage.

For those couples who are truly inspired by history and a love of the past, vintage themed weddings are not merely ‘trendy’, but a true reflection of oneself.  For those who have a commitment to hosting a wedding that is eco-friendly and handmade, then take a visit out to Aroka Vintage in Port Moody or come and see the wonderful display Dawna will have on hand at the Mini Spring Grassroots Wedding Fair on April 21st, 2012!

article and photos by: Shona Dion, www.sweetearthphotographics.com

EP!C weekend

Many  vendors from The Grassroots Wedding Fair are at EP!C this year.  The event itself is quite phenomenal and it truly is an eco-friendly love-in.  The wedding showcase features many old friends and day 1 was great to meet and see how everyone is doing.

The green wedding community is not very large and EP!C is a nice way to welcome new businesses into the fold.  I believe we will all come away from this event more resolved in making a difference in our community. 

sweet earth photographics (that’s me!) and Sweet Naturally Bakery fill out one corner of the wedding showcase quite nicely.  I am enjoying chatting with Francis and Dickson of Sweet Naturally and finding out more about how their stint with the winter Farmers Markets went.  They will return for the summer markets as well.  I love the diversity of their baking specialties from gorgeous wedding cakes to scrumptious scones and cookies.

Another old friend is Onyx from Amoda Flowers who brought in both centrepieces for the Epicurean Court and bouquets for the Wedding Showcase.  Her sense of style always impresses me and the range of bouquets she creates can match any bride’s whimsy.

Shoo-Foo Bamboo offers wedding registries to couples interested in more sustainable options.  Shoo-Foo has a well-organized system to help couples set up their registries and their products are beautifully made.

Pure Magnolia provided wedding attire and Spark Jewelry provided bridal accessories for the EP!C Wedding Showcase.  Patty and Christina make sustainable fashion come to life with gowns made from natural materials and bridal jewelry made from recycled silver.

Olla Urban Flower Project is also at EP!C with air plant boutennieres, stunning bouquets and their signature living favours and centrepieces.

EP!C is a truly exciting event for those commited to sustainability and for those who are curious and want to learn more.  I am very pleased to see so many familiar faces.  Change may come slowly, but attending an event such as this just reminds me that yes, we are on the right path.

Shona Dion

photos by sweet earth photographics

The 2nd Annual Grassroots Wedding Fair

If the reviews of all of guests and the experience of our vendors was the only thing to gage our success on then the 2nd Annual Grassroots Wedding Fair was a success.  What we lacked in numbers we definitely made up for in a gorgeous settting on a most dreadful wet and cold February 12, 2011.

For a complete list of all of our vendors please visit Our Exhibitors Page and for the full range of photos from our event with each vendors information please visit our Facebook page!

Something new, something borrowed…. something repurposed.

Weddings can create a lot of waste.  Decor accents are one area where it may be hard to keep your footprint low.  Couples want the ceremony to be lovingly decorated and the reception hall to look magical. Wedding and bridesmaid dresses are most likely a one time wear and even though it is nostalgia that has us hold onto these items what if there was a way to share your wedding day features with others? 

Craigslist is a great way to repurpose wedding items and for those couples on their way to marriage, it is a great resource to find coveted dresses, accents and more.

Couples looking to find wedding accent treasures have a new way to go about finding gently used items.  Couples already married have a new venue to sell wedding items to upcoming brides and grooms.  A new market, a wedding swap meet begins next month at Heritage Hall in Vancouver. 

Bridal Swap  is a new venture conjured up by Dream Group Productions, a lower mainland based wedding and event company who saw the need to help new brides and grooms find all their wedding needs in one place. Not only is their idea economical it is also a great way to keep your wedding footprint low.

Geneve McNally best explains their reasoning:

“Bridal Swap came about after spending several summers watching our clients purchase and make rather than rent candy/centre piece vases and candle holders (thank you IKEA), overlays, chair covers, etc.  They justified it by saying that it was the same (if not sometimes cheaper) to buy something rather than rent it and most “planned” to sell these items on Craig’s List or other after the fact.  The reality is most brides post wedding do not have the time or energy to go to the trouble of selling these items and they end up often being “temporarily” stored away it their garages and eventually being tossed out or donated (the latter not being so bad).  So, we thought why not create a tangible forum for past brides to unload these coveted items which in turn would benefit not only current bride’s pocket books, but help in reducing the carbon footprint of future brides who may be planning to do just the same thing in purchasing rather than renting vases.  The last reason for creating the event was to have some fun!  We foresee a wonderful energy filled day with lots of bustling brides exchanging goods and possibly even wedding tips!”

Bridal Swap takes place February 20th from 10:30 -4pm at Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street in Vancouver.  Past brides can find more information about hosting a table from their website and new brides can shop at one location for their wedding needs.

Vintage Bride or Groom

Picking out that perfect wedding outfit can be an exciting experience or an overwhelming one.  Today engaged couples have many options.  If walking into a bridal gallery is not in the cards then perhaps look to the most greenest option of all.

Vintage stores abound in the Lower Mainland, but some stand out from the others.  Woo Vintage at 4333 Main Street, is a vintage store that is unique in its mission to bring back amazing finds.  Not only can you find such goodies, all items are very well taken care of, cleaned, mended and even reworked.  The store is a treasure trove of vintage clothing from the 1920′s on. 

What is most impressive though, is the store’s owner, Natalie.  Her knowledge of clothing styles, accessories, details from every era, and her passion for finding such treasures is remarkable.  I spent some time with her in her store and came out with a greater understanding of fashion from the last 80 years.

Woo Vintage has an extensive wedding attire collection.  For the women the dresses come in almost any decade, although those from the 1950′s on are the more popular.  It does not stop at dresses though.  Gloves, stoles, shoes, opera coats, gorgeous hats and birdcage veils, and whimsies galore can also be found.

1953 Wedding Dress

For the men there are many options.  Natalie has suits and what I found even more exciting is that she is also has a collection of tux dress shirts rescued from decades ago and in perfect condition.  Natalie also has many cumberbunds, collars, studs, ties of all shapes and sizes and pocket squares.

Same sex couples can also find treasures here as men’s suit from earlier eras tend to fit smaller.  Why rent a tuxedo from a men’s rental store when you can own an original? 

1930′s button up suit

Natalie keeps track of the trends.  Brides come in looking for vintage jewelry to make unique handmade bouquets. Using grandma’s old jewelry and  a few extra pieces found at Woo they can create stunning and very modern  wedding accessories.

A trip to Woo is well worth it.  Let Natalie lead you through her lovely store and share her knowledge with you.   Her staff are well versed in alterations so come down for a fitting and add some flare to your wedding.

 

Shona Dion, photos by sweet earth photographics

Portobello West

This month and last we have had a promotional table at Portobello West in order to get the word out about The Grassroots Wedding Fair.  We were able to feature  a number of our exhibitors to give people a taste of what they can expect at the green wedding fair.  It is such a pleasure to engage those curious enough to pause and find out more about our event.

Those engaged or those who hoped to be engaged soon (there were many) made a b-line for our table.  The gorgeous dress by Patty Nayel of Pure Magnolia and the exquisite cake made by Sweet Naturally Bakery brought them over.

I was surprised though how many married couples also stopped to chat.  My greatest joy was hearing the feedback that others gave once they learned about our event.  “Wish you were around when I got married”, “About time someone started a green wedding fair”,  and simply, “What a lovely idea”.  They listened to me chat about the commitment our vendors have made to the environment and how easy it is to have a green wedding.  Many were intrigued how even a few decisions can lower the impact that a wedding has on the environment and how much more rewarding a marriage ceremony can be.  All agreed on one thing . . . that weddings are about more than just a big show on one particular day.

Christina of Spark created the beautiful bridal jewelry on display.

Ginger and peppermint candy cane macaroons were on hand from Buttercup Cake Design.

Modern and unique wedding invitations from Something Green Weddings.

Foodisima joins us for our next event with gourmet vegetarian catering.

I also want to thank Carlie from Portobello West for the opportunity to share our great green wedding event with lucky shoppers these past two months.

photos by sweet earth photographics who also had beautiful handmade, handbound portfolios on display.

Shona Dion

The Green General Store

 

Scraps – The Green General Store is a new and very cool store that has only recently opened on Main Street at 32nd Avenue.  They have only been open for a few months, but already their store is an inviting gallery of eco friendly treats. 

Started by Christina and Cara, Scraps, the Green General Store, began with a mission to bring sustainable items to conscious consumers.  As local residents of the area they have a vested interest in their community.

Their Mission Statement:

“scraps mission is to offer simple, ethical and affordable solutions to conscious consumers in the community. Investors, employees and customers will benefit from their involvement with scraps as they play an integral role in attaining our vision of promoting respect, equality and awareness. scraps will continually strive to gain and share knowledge in order to lighten our carbon footprint and find solutions supporting sustainability.”

Their concept is fantastic and another sign of Vancouver’s further growing as a green city.  Scraps is also still growing.  At my visit Christina and Cara are expanding the store, bringing in new product and establishing themselves as a go-to eco-boutique store.  They have promised to keep us updated with new and exciting news.  I will be following them with interest. 

When I visited the store I was looking for wedding ideas.  I found handmade soaps, beautiful artisan hair accessories, jewelry and upcycled gifting bags.  The store also has great fashions and many unique green products. 

Scraps is located at 4770 Main Street.  You can can visit their website at: http://www.scrapsvancouver.com

photos by sweet earth photographics

Eco Friendly Bridal Jewelry by ecocessories

ecocessories is an eco-friendly jewelry design company, and your source for one-of-a-kind sterling silver & recycled bead bridal jewelry. If you are looking for gifts for your bridal party, mother of the bride, or mother of the groom, together we can custom design a set of jewelry that will reflect your eco-chic style on your wedding day!

 My name is Jessica, and I am the designer behind all of my sterling silver & recycled bead designs. All of my recycled beads are sourced from my jewelry recycling service . I take in old, broken, or unwanted jewelry and disassemble the pieces to salvage the recycled beads and vintage components. All the recycled beads are cleaned and then sorted by colour in my Gastown, Vancouver, B.C. studio space to serve as inspiration for my new designs.

 Maybe you would like to set up an appointment to choose recycled beads that will match your bridal colours? Perhaps you have a cherished necklace from your mother, or some funky beads that you have pre-selected and want made into your bridesmaids’ jewelry? You may even have grandma’s old vintage clip-on earrings that you’d like reinvented into a stylish, eco-glamorous pendant for your wedding day. Whatever the case, I’d love to work with you to outfit the ladies in your wedding with eco-friendly jewelry for your special day.

 On January 30, 2010 ecocessories will have a table at the Grassroots Wedding Fair with a sampling of eco-friendly bridal bracelet sets, necklace sets, and other one-of-a-kind designs. Stop by to arrange an appointment for your custom eco-friendly bridal jewelry!