#bridal boutique toronto

[weddingdressest]

Casablanca 2389 Wedding Dresses

A modern twist on the classic ballgown wedding dress, Style 2389 Rachel is as stunning as she is versatile. The option for off-shoulder sleeves adds to the allure of classic spaghetti straps, which hold up a flattering sweetheart neckline. Brilliant beading and embroidery cover the entire bodice, which opens into a subtle illusion back. Sparkling beading trails down from the bodice and onto a light and dreamy tulle skirt, glimmering at every turn.

[whitelacebridalcouture]

White Lace Bridal Couture: A Premier Bridal Store in Toronto, Canada

Finding the perfect wedding dress is a pivotal moment for any bride. It’s a blend of dreams, style, and personal expression. For those in Toronto, Canada, White Lace Bridal Couture stands out as a premier destination for brides seeking elegance, sophistication, and personalized service.

This article explores why White Lace Bridal Couture is the go-to bridal store for brides in Toronto and how it distinguishes itself in the world of bridal fashion.

The Essence of White Lace Bridal Couture

White Lace Bridal Couture is more than just a bridal store; it’s an experience. Nestled in the heart of Toronto, the store offers an exquisite collection of bridal gowns that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The boutique’s name reflects its dedication to timeless elegance and sophisticated design, with a focus on lace—a fabric synonymous with romance and grace.

A Diverse Collection of Bridal Gowns

One of the key attractions of White Lace Bridal Couture is its diverse collection of bridal gowns. The store features a curated selection of dresses from renowned designers, ensuring that every bride finds something that resonates with her unique style. Whether a bride dreams of a classic ball gown, a sleek mermaid dress, or a bohemian-inspired creation, White Lace Bridal Couture has something to offer.

Designer Labels: The boutique showcases dresses from some of the most sought-after designers in the bridal industry. This includes a mix of established names and emerging talents, providing brides with a range of options that combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary trends.

Customization: For brides seeking something truly unique, White Lace Bridal Couture offers customization options. The expert team can help modify existing designs or create bespoke gowns tailored to a bride’s specific vision, ensuring that every detail is perfect.

Size Inclusivity: Understanding that every bride is unique, White Lace Bridal Couture is committed to offering a range of sizes. This inclusivity ensures that every bride can find a gown that fits beautifully and makes her feel confident and radiant.

Personalized Service and Expert Guidance

At White Lace Bridal Couture, the shopping experience goes beyond simply trying on dresses. The boutique prides itself on offering personalized service that makes each bride feel special and supported throughout her journey.

One-on-One Appointments: Brides are encouraged to book private appointments, allowing them to explore the collection in a relaxed and intimate setting. This personalized attention ensures that brides receive undivided focus from experienced consultants.

Expert Stylists: The store’s team of bridal consultants is not only passionate about fashion but also skilled in understanding individual preferences. They provide expert advice on dress styles, fabrics, and accessories, guiding brides to make informed decisions.

Attention to Detail: From the initial consultation to the final fitting, the team at White Lace Bridal Couture is dedicated to ensuring every detail is perfect. Their meticulous approach guarantees that each gown is tailored to the bride’s specifications and fits flawlessly.

The Boutique Experience

White Lace Bridal Couture offers more than just a shopping experience; it provides a memorable journey for every bride. The boutique’s elegant interior, combined with its warm and welcoming atmosphere, creates a space where brides can truly enjoy the process of finding their dream dress.

Elegant Surroundings: The store’s décor reflects the sophistication and style that White Lace Bridal Couture embodies. Brides are welcomed into a beautifully designed space that enhances the overall experience.

Exclusive Atmosphere: With a focus on providing a high-end experience, the boutique ensures that each visit feels exclusive. This attention to creating a unique and luxurious environment contributes to the overall enjoyment of the bridal shopping process.

Client-Centric Approach: White Lace Bridal Couture places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction. The team is dedicated to understanding and fulfilling each bride’s needs, making sure that the entire process is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

The Final Touch: Accessories and Alterations

In addition to its stunning collection of gowns, White Lace Bridal Couture offers a range of accessories to complete the bridal look. From veils and tiaras to jewelry and shoes, the boutique provides options that complement each gown perfectly.

Accessory Selection: The store’s selection of accessories includes pieces that add a touch of sparkle or elegance to any dress. Brides can find everything they need to enhance their look and make their wedding day truly unforgettable.

In-House Alterations: To ensure a perfect fit, White Lace Bridal Couture offers in-house alterations. This service allows for adjustments to be made with precision, ensuring that every gown is tailored to the bride’s body and preferences.

Conclusion

White Lace Bridal Couture stands as a beacon of elegance and sophistication in Toronto’s bridal scene. With its diverse collection of gowns, personalized service, and attention to detail, the boutique offers a bridal experience that is both exceptional and memorable. For brides seeking a perfect blend of style, luxury, and individualized care, White Lace Bridal Couture is undoubtedly the premier destination in Toronto.

Whether you’re embarking on the journey to find your dream dress or seeking expert guidance in choosing the perfect gown, White Lace Bridal Couture promises to make your bridal shopping experience as special and unique as the love story you’re about to celebrate.

[vinnisjewelry]

Luxury Designer Jewelry Gift Ideas: Elevate Your Gifting Experience in Canada

When it comes to expressing love, appreciation, or celebration, few gifts match the timeless elegance and enduring appeal of luxury designer jewelry. In Canada, where style meets sophistication, choosing the perfect piece of jewelry can elevate any occasion from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're celebrating a special milestone or simply showing someone how much they mean to you, luxury designer jewelry offers a touch of opulence and personalization that transcends ordinary gifts.

Why Choose Luxury Designer Jewelry?

Luxury designer jewelry is more than just an accessory; it's a statement of style and craftsmanship. Each piece is meticulously crafted using the finest materials and often features unique designs that reflect the creativity and vision of renowned jewelry designers. In Canada, where appreciation for artistry and quality runs deep, opting for luxury designer jewelry ensures your gift stands out and becomes a cherished symbol of your thoughtfulness.

Occasions Worthy of Luxury Designer Jewelry

Anniversaries: Celebrate years of love and commitment with a stunning diamond ring or a personalized pendant that captures your journey together.

Birthdays: Make their birthday unforgettable with a pair of exquisite gemstone earrings or a bracelet adorned with their birthstone.

Graduations: Commemorate their academic achievements with a timeless watch or a sleek pair of cufflinks that signify their transition to the next chapter of life.

Weddings: Whether as a gift for the bride, groom, or bridal party, luxury designer jewelry adds a touch of glamour and sophistication to the wedding day.

Holidays: From Valentine's Day to Christmas, surprise your loved ones with a piece of jewelry that sparkles as brightly as the holiday spirit.

Top Picks for Luxury Designer Jewelry in Canada

1. Diamond Solitaire Necklace: A classic and versatile piece that complements any outfit, perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.

2. Sapphire and Diamond Earrings: For a touch of royal elegance, sapphire earrings encrusted with diamonds make a statement of sophistication and luxury.

3. Customizable Charm Bracelet: Personalize a charm bracelet with meaningful charms that represent milestones or memories shared with the recipient.

4. Statement Cocktail Ring: Bold and eye-catching, a statement cocktail ring featuring vibrant gemstones is sure to turn heads at any event.

5. Men's Luxury Watch: Treat him to a Swiss-made timepiece that combines precision engineering with impeccable design, a symbol of his success and style.

Where to Find Luxury Designer Jewelry in Canada

In Canada, cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal boast a vibrant jewelry scene with boutiques and stores offering a curated selection of luxury designer jewelry. Whether you prefer shopping in-person or online, reputable jewelers like Birks, Maison Birks, Blue Nile Canada, and Graziella Fine Jewellery offer a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget.

Conclusion

When searching for the perfect gift that transcends ordinary, luxury designer jewelry in Canada stands as a beacon of elegance and sophistication. Whether it's a special occasion or a gesture of appreciation, the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of luxury designer jewelry make it a gift that will be treasured for a lifetime. Choose wisely, express your sentiments, and let luxury designer jewelry from Canada's finest jewelers elevate your gifting experience to new heights.

[brideschoice]

Bridal Store Toronto

Your wedding day is a big affair you’ve always dreamt of since childhood. It’s a day that you’ll never forget. So finding the perfect wedding dress is not an easy task. For this, you will have to go through various bridal stores across Toronto till you find the perfect attire that matches your style and look. Thus, at ‘The Bride Choice’ we are here to make the process simpler for you. We have everything from A-line flared gowns to sleek and simple in our bridal store. There’s no need to waste your time anymore as we have a variety of gowns from some of the top designers like Martina Liana, Allure Bridals, Essence of Australia, and Morilee, plus many more at affordable prices. 

Amanda-Lina’s is a one-stop wedding boutique offering the widest variety of authentic and trendy ethnic fashion from some of the best designers. We offer it all from wedding gowns to bridesmaid dresses to make your wedding day a memorable affair. This platform allows you to explore some of the best offers and discounts offered by some of the top designers.

[chicbridals]

Best Bridal Shops in Toronto: Find Your Dream Wedding Dress

There are numerous bridal dress boutiques in the bustling city of Toronto. However, when it comes to finding the perfect wedding dress, one name stands out - Chic Bridals. Known for its exceptional service and exquisite collection, Chic Bridals has become the destination for brides-to-be searching for their dream wedding gown. Join us as we delve into the magical world of our bridal dress boutique, where every bride's fairytale begins. Get ready to be inspired and discover the dress that will make you feel like the most beautiful bride on your special day.

What to Look for in a Bridal Shop

When choosing a bridal shop, there are a few key factors to consider:

You want to ensure that the shop offers a wide range of wedding gowns that suit your style and budget.

It's important to choose a shop with friendly and experienced staff who can guide you through finding your dream dress. Consider the location and hours of the shop, as well as any additional services they offer, such as alterations or accessories.

When considering a shop, it is helpful to read reviews and ratings from previous consumers to gauge the quality of service.

Chic Bridals - Top Bridal Shops in Toronto

Chic Bridals is a renowned bridal shop in the vibrant city of Toronto. With our beautiful collection of wedding gowns and accessories, we have established ourselves as one of the top destinations for brides-to-be. We offer various styles, from traditional and timeless designs to modern and fashion-forward creations, ensuring that every bride can find her dream wedding dress.

Our bridal dress boutique's experienced and friendly staff provides personalized attention and expert guidance, making the bridal shopping experience truly memorable. Whether you're looking for a classic ballgown or a sleek mermaid silhouette, Chic Bridals is the go-to destination for exquisite bridal attire in Toronto.

Tips for Finding Your Dream Wedding Dress

Follow the below tips and tricks while shopping for the perfect gown for your special day:

Start your search early: You must search for the stunning wedding dress at least 6-8 months before the wedding day to allow ample time for alterations.

Set a budget: Wedding dresses come in a wide range of prices, so it's important to set a budget before you start shopping. This will help you narrow your options and avoid trying on gowns out of your price range.

Consider the wedding venue and theme: Your dress's style should complement your wedding's venue and theme. For example, a beach wedding may require a more casual, lightweight dress, while a formal ballroom wedding may require a more elaborate gown.

Be open to trying different styles: While you may have a particular style in mind, try different styles and silhouettes. You may be surprised that a dress you never considered is perfect!

Conclusion

Finding your perfect wedding dress is a memorable experience, and Chic Bridals is committed to making it a reality. Our store has become a top choice for brides worldwide with our wide selection of stunning gowns, exceptional quality and craftsmanship, personalized service, customization options, and affordability. Whether looking for a classic, romantic gown or a modern, fashion-forward design, Chic Bridals has the perfect dress.

[wedspro]

Discover the Ultimate Toronto Wedding Directory: Wedspro Simplifies Your Wedding Planning

Introduction:

Planning a wedding in Toronto? Look no further! Wedspro, a leading wedding planning company, has launched the ultimate Toronto Wedding Directory. Designed to simplify your wedding planning experience, Wedspro's directory offers a comprehensive resource of wedding services and vendors in the vibrant city of Toronto.

Simplify Your Wedding Planning:

Planning a wedding involves countless decisions and researching various vendors. Wedspro understands the challenges couples face and has curated a comprehensive Toronto wedding directory to streamline the process. With this directory, couples can find all the necessary wedding-related services and vendors in one place, making their planning journey more efficient and stress-free.

All-Inclusive Resource:

Wedspro's Toronto Wedding Directory covers a wide range of services and vendors, including wedding venues, photographers, caterers, florists, bridal boutiques, makeup artists, DJs, and much more. Each vendor listing provides detailed information, allowing couples to easily compare options and choose the perfect fit for their vision and budget.

Personalized and Inspirational:

Wedspro believes in personalization, and their directory reflects this philosophy. Couples can personalize their search by filtering vendors based on location, services offered, and price range. Additionally, the directory features helpful articles, tips, and inspiration, providing couples with valuable insights at every step of their planning journey.

Trustworthy and Reputable Vendors:

Wedspro's Toronto Wedding Directory only includes trusted and reputable vendors. As a respected wedding planning company, Wedspro brings their industry knowledge and expertise to curate a directory filled with vendors who are committed to excellence. Couples can have confidence in the quality and reliability of the vendors they discover through Wedspro's directory.

Make Your Dream Wedding a Reality:

With Wedspro's Toronto Wedding Directory, couples can navigate the wedding planning process with ease. Whether you're seeking the perfect venue, an exceptional photographer, or a talented florist, Wedspro's directory has it all. Simplify your wedding planning and create the wedding of your dreams in Toronto with Wedspro's comprehensive directory as your trusted resource.

Conclusion:

If you're planning a wedding in Toronto, Wedspro's Toronto Wedding Directory is your go-to resource. With its extensive list of wedding services and vendors, personalized search options, and valuable inspiration, Wedspro simplifies the wedding planning process and helps you bring your dream wedding to life. Visit Wedspro's website today and embark on your journey to a memorable wedding celebration in Toronto.

[pinerstereo]

Wedding dress assistant designer job

That can be anything, as long as I am creative: I sew and draw but I also like to work in my house with, for example, furniture painting. In addition to her work, Célinie still has a lot of hobbies. That’s why I think it’s such a nice product.” After all, you do not wear a wedding dress every day. There are many similarities between bridal fashion and costume design. I just happen to be in bridal fashion at MRFG and I am very pleased with this job. In the end I ended up in fashion by chance. “I dreamed of designing clothes for film, theatre or the circus. I can usually solve this with my own workshop.”Īs a little girl she wanted to become a costume designer. “Making wedding dresses is no easy task, so if the person in charge of the external studio has questions about a creation, she will come to me. Prom by Designer Abby Paris Collection Atria Cassandra Stone Clarisse Prom Colors Ellie Wilde Fabulouss Faviana. In addition, she is the liaison between the Belgian studio and the external studios. Wedding Dress Assistant Bridal Shop Assistant Toronto Amanda Linas, Toronto’s 1 bridal boutique, selling wedding dresses, Bridesmaid dresses, prom dresses, mother of the bride and groom gowns, bridal accessories. Furthermore, I answer questions from brides who contact us via the website.” Célinie explains. The shops call to order a dress, have questions about fabrics, delivery times or what adjustments are possible to a dress. Every day I am in contact with customers: both the bridal shops and the brides themselves. “My job responsibilities are very varied. I am therefore familiar with the technical aspect of wedding dresses.” Célinie Baert has only been working at MRFG since the end of 2018 and feels completely at home, even though this job is completely new to her. I studied styling and modelling and worked for four years as assistant designer at a fashion company in Antwerp. I can also help them with ‘difficult’ questions. “The nice thing about my job is that I can make the customers happy. “I get to know the company’s DNA in this job.” She is responsible for customer contacts in the French-speaking market. She speaks fluent French, Dutch and English, which is an important asset in her job. “Making customers happy is the fun part of my job!”Ĭélinie grew up in Namur, studied in Brussels and later moved to Antwerp.

[amandalinas]

Wedding Dresses & Bridal Boutique Toronto | Amanda Linas

Toronto’s #1 bridal boutique, selling wedding dresses, Bridesmaid dresses, prom dresses, mother of the bride and groom gowns, bridal accessories.

[chambeili]

CHAMBEILI® BRIDAL MADE-TO-ORDER BY FAIZA SAQLAIN HANDCRAFTED WITH PURE FABRICS AND HAND EMBELLISHMENTS. Our amazing niece Nida Rashid from Toronto, Canada ordered her bridal, nikaa and mehndi from chambeili Bridal as well as brides mum, sisters mehndi and bridesmaid dresses. The bridal was custom designed by our amazing designer Faiza Saqlain and also the brides mum’s dress. The bridesmaid gowns were all designed by Zonia Anwaar. Our bridal website is currently being developed but in the mean time you can access all our digital brochures by visiting: http://chambeilibridal.com #catwalk #runway #instafashion #fashionista #madetoorder #august #2018 #bridal #fashion #boutique #wedding #bridalinspo #bridals #bridalgown #bridaldress #madetoorder18 #m2o18 #luxury @zoniaanwaarofficial @zoniaanwaar #toronto #torontofashion #canada @faizasaqlain (at chambeili)

[thebrideschoice275]

The Bride’s Choice offers all wedding dresses and bridal gowns at affordable price. Shop online or Book an appointment.

Call to book your appointment now (416) 651-6777 Make an Appointment : https://thebrideschoice.ca

[ninascollection]

Congratulations to our beautiful bride. You look absolutely gorgeous in your #NinaCouture #Bridal #Gown. #syttd #bride #wedding #weddingdress #weddinggown #bridaldress #bridagown #sayyestothedress #Toronto #Etobicoke #Mississauga (at Nina's Collection Boutique) https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci0TUoYu2qL/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[chicbridals]

Wedding Dresses for Women: Making a Fashion Statement on Your Big Day

Choosing a beautiful wedding gown is one of the most important decisions a bride-to-be will make. It's a chance to express personal style, enhance beauty, and create cherished memories. With countless options available, finding the ideal wedding dress can be overwhelming. In this write-up, we will explore different styles of wedding dresses for women and provide tips to help women find their dream gowns.

Trends And Styles Of Chic Bridal Dresses

Classic Elegance

Classic wedding dresses exude timeless beauty and sophistication. Styles like the A-line, ball gown, and mermaid silhouettes are popular for those seeking a traditional look. These dresses often feature delicate lace, intricate beadwork, and flowing fabrics, creating an ethereal and romantic feel.

Click here to see our top wedding gown collections!

Modern Chic

For the contemporary bride, modern wedding dresses offer a fresh take on bridal fashion. Minimalist designs with clean lines, sleek silhouettes, and unexpected details are the hallmarks of this style. Dresses with plunging necklines, open backs, and unique textures are perfect for those wanting a fashion-forward look on their big day.

Visit our chic bridal boutiques to shop for the best wedding gowns today!

Vintage Charm

Vintage-inspired wedding dresses capture the romance and nostalgia of bygone eras. Whether it's the glamor of the 1920s or the elegance of the 1950s, vintage dresses offer a unique and timeless appeal. To achieve this enchanting style, look for retro silhouettes, lace embellishments, and vintage-inspired fabrics like tulle and satin.

Plus Size Perfection

Every woman deserves to feel beautiful on her special day, regardless of size. Plus-size wedding dresses cater to the needs of curvier brides, providing comfortable and flattering options. A-line or empire waist dresses and V-necklines are great choices to accentuate curves and create a stunning silhouette.

Check out  Chic Bridals wedding dress today. Our wedding dress designers are always available to help you choose the perfect gown for your special day.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Wedding Dress

Here are some tips that you should follow while choosing your beautiful wedding dress:

Start early: Begin your dress search at least 8-12 months before your wedding to allow enough time for alterations and fittings. Check out our best wedding dress stores in Toronto!

Set a budget: Determine a realistic budget and stick to it. Consider the cost of alterations, accessories, and any additional customization you may desire.

Consider your venue and theme: Your dress should complement the overall vibe of your wedding. For example, a formal ball gown might not be suitable for a beach wedding.

Know your body type: Understanding your body shape will help you select a dress that flatters your figure and highlights your best features.

Don't be afraid to try different styles: Keep an open mind and try various types to see what suits you best. You may be surprised by what you end up loving!

Conclusion

Finding the perfect wedding gown is an exciting journey for every bride. By considering different styles, body types, and themes, you can find a dress that reflects your style and makes you feel confident and gorgeous on your big day. Remember to start the search early, set a budget, and have an open mind. With these tips, you can find your dream wedding dress and create memories that will last a lifetime.

[holidaywishes]

It Had To Be You XXXIX

Chapter 39: I’m In Love Without You

  Summary: “I never meant to hurt you. Honestly. Everything just kind of happened so quickly and I didn’t.. feel you anymore. Does that make sense?”

  Warning: Melancholia? like not angst but not anger or depression just kinda like.. sorta sad? There’s no actual Tyler in this chapter, just talk of him -- so you’re welcome to skip it if that’s not your cuppa tea but I really hope you don’t! 😊

  Author’s Note: I already had this one in the back of my head when I wrote the last chapter so I figured I’d put it out as soon as I could before I completely forget it. So here you go, it’s a short chapter and it takes place about six months after the last chapter (so like June 2022?) but I’ve been listening to this song like non-stop and it made me think of James and (Y/N). Enjoy!

  Song Credit: I’m In Love Without You -- FINNEAS (the beginning of this song gives me chills every time; give it a listen you won’t be disappointed)

  masterlist

  the other masterlist

xx

  While Tyler was occupied with Hockey, you had been planning the wedding but it was proving to be much more difficult than you thought.

  “I think you need to come back home,” your sister said over the phone, “you know, for support.”

  “This is home. Besides, I can’t leave now. I’ve got Lionel and the season’s over. They need me...” you hesitated, not fully believing the words that came out of your mouth

  “The season’s over and Ty’s going to do what he always does. Train and head out to a warm place with a beach and an ocean and bring along his buddies. He doesn’t need you for that.”

  “Yikes. That’s not really what a girl wants to hear about her fiancé.”

  “I didn’t mean it like that,” she corrected, “I just meant there’s no harm in you popping back to Calgary so your family can help plan your wedding; that you haven’t decided on a date for.” She mumbled the last part under her breath and you called her on it but she just ignored you, “look, if it’s about the dog, bring him. I’d love to meet him!”

  “I don’t know,” you hesitated, “I’d have to put him in cargo and he’s never been on a plane before. He’s still pretty much a puppy you know. Plus, what about Ty’s dogs?”

  “Bring them too?”

  “Luce...”

  “Come on! I haven’t seen my baby sister in ages and now that she’s getting married, I won’t ever see her again.”

  “Hey!” you practically snapped, “that’s not true. Of course you’ll see me.”

  “No I’ll see the two of you. The you that is the ‘us.’ Sometimes, I just need sister time.” You understood where she was coming from and you would be lying if you didn’t agree on some level with what she was saying so you agreed to go back to Calgary after Tyler started BioSteel Camp but you had to admit, you were kind of relieved to know that you would have some people to help plan this wedding with you. When you landed in Calgary, you sent a quick text to Lucy, who came to meet you at the airport.

 “I knew you’d head out here,” she taunted, smiling at you, “you can’t plan a wedding with no family”

  “Sure you can,” you added, “people do it all the time.”

  “Yeah but...” she stammered, “they’re not surrounded by hockey players”

  “I think you’d be surprised how many hockey players are good at the wedding planning stuff. Ty, however, is not one of those. He’s happy to just let me handle it.”

  “See...” she laughed, “you need us!” You sighed before admitting she was right

  “If Ty’s sisters were in Dallas, it wouldn’t be so bad but they’re up in Toronto you know?” you said, “if I’m gonna head up anyway, I may as well just go home.” She nodded in agreement before smiling at you. The two of you headed back to Lucy’s place because she was hoping to surprise Chris and Karen and you were happy to indulge her.

  “I notice there is no dog...” she questioned

  “Ty said he’d be happy to keep all four of them. Said it would help push him to train more or something.”

  “Ahh I see..”

  “Yup.” The two of you laughed; a text came through from Chris

  “Just checkin’ in. You’re never too old for me to do that you know!”

  “Do they know yet?” Lucy said as she glanced at your screen and saw his name.

  “Yes!” you answered, but furrowed your brow, “I think so. I’m pretty sure.. It’s been six months so I’m positive I told them after it happened”

  “How can you not remember?” she laughed

  “A lot was happening,” you smiled, “there was a party and Candace came down so we spent some time together. She made herself a bridesmaid by the way”

  “As long as she didn’t claim Maid of Honour,” she said, narrowing her eyes at you, “I don’t care”

  “Just bridesmaid, which I would’ve made her and Cass anyway,” you added, “but I’m sure I told Chris and Karen.” You thought about it more as Lucy began dialing Chris’ number,

  “Hey Chris!” she greeted, hitting your shoulder to get you to pay attention when she noticed you weren’t looking in her direction, “I’m just wondering if you and Karen could come over and help me organize my office. I’m just a little overwhelmed.” She put him on speaker

  “Why are you organizing your office?” he answered

  “Because I’m bored, I don’t know. Why aren’t you organizing your office?” she snapped back

  “You want our help? I’d check your tone if I were you.” You raised your eyebrows at your sister to get her to calm down and she winced in your direction, knowing you were right

  “I’m sorry. Like I said, I’m overwhelmed” she shrugged and you laughed silently to yourself. Chris agreed, like he always did and like you knew he would, and Lucy said she’d seen him soon before they hung both hung up.

  “You’re lucky he didn’t snap at you”

  “Chris would never!” she joked and you nodded knowing she was probably right

  “Whatever,” you laughed, “I’m going to take a shower before they get here.” It didn’t take long for them to get there and you were rushed to Lucy’s room so she could distract them enough for you to get ready. When you popped your head into Lucy’s office, Karen was the first to see you and her high-pitched scream made you cover your ears sarcastically.

  “What are you doing here?!” she exclaimed

  “Shouldn’t you be in Dallas with your fiancé?” Chris teased

  “HA!” you shouted, turning to Lucy, “I knew I told them!” Everyone laughed for a few seconds before eventually asking why you were really home

  “Everything’s okay right?” Chris said

  “Of course!” you giggled, “I just thought.. maybe.. you’d like to help me plan the wedding a little?”

  “Oh..” Chris hesitated, “that’s a thing for you girls. I’d be no good in that situation.”

  “Hmm...” you hummed, “fine, but please be there when I’m trying on dresses. Your opinion means a lot to me.”

  “You got it, kiddo.” You returned the smile he gave you as Karen and Lucy bombarded you with questions and directed you toward the kitchen table.

xx

  After about two weeks of deciding dates, colours and themes, occasionally checking with Tyler to get his thoughts which proved to be ineffective since all he said seemed to be

  “I trust you.” You could hear him smiling on the other end of the phone but it wasn’t exactly the answer you wanted to hear

  “It’s your wedding too, dummy,” you joked, “I want it you to have some say.”

  “I love you and I trust your judgement. Anything you choose, I’ll love because you chose it. All I need is you.” You smiled but rolled your eyes before hanging up. After that, you kept him up to date on how everything was going but none of the details, except the important ones; you know, like the date. Karen had found a great bridal boutique and called them to make a reservation for later in the week but to be completely honest, you couldn’t picture your wedding dress.

  “I wish we could’ve gone to the one on T.V. The Say Yes to the Dress store.” Karen sighed as she got off the phone

  “I don’t need that. All of those dresses, all those options, would give me way too much anxiety,” you smiled, “besides, I don’t even have a venue picked out to know what kind of dress to look for.”

  “Let your dress pick the venue.” Lucy said, wrapping her arm around you in a side hug

  “I like that,” you returned, “I think I’ll do just that.”

  “Good!” She said victoriously and you laughed.

  “Hey, I gotta go. I’m meeting up with Diana and Ethan downtown for lunch,” you interjected, “apparently they’re in town for a bit.”

  “Ahh what a coincidence!” Karen said

  “Meh, not really.” You replied, shrugging to yourself, “I told them I was heading out here and I wouldn’t be surprised if they booked their tickets after i booked mine.”

  “Me either” Karen and Lucy said at the same time, chuckling afterward. Seeing them acting all dorky together made you happy that you agreed to come home. You never truly realized how much family meant to you until you didn’t have it right around the corner everyday.

xx

  On your way downtown to meet your best friends, you decided to stop at one of your favourite spots in the city, Snap Foto Club, if for no other reason than to people watch. You watched as crowds lined up in front of the various wing backdrops for their perfect Instagram shot; taking a seat on a bench just far enough away to watch all the girlfriends beg their boyfriends to take as many shots as possible of them in the bathtub full of rose petals. 

  “(Y/N))?” you heard a familiar voice call from behind you and you slowly turned your head, “I thought it was you!”

  “James?”

  “How have you been?!”

  “Good, I’m good. How about you?” It was weird to see James after all this time but he still managed to give you comfort

  “I’m good! Wow. (Y/N) (Y/L/N).” He stated, “I never thought I’d see you again. You here alone?”

  “Yeah, I just stopped in to people watch before I met up with Diana and Ethan..” you smiled, “you here alone?”

  “Uhh, yeah,” he said, guiding you to a quieter area, “let’s talk for a bit. I’d love to catch up! Unless you’re in a rush?”

  “No, no. I can chat for a bit.” You replied, following his lead, “you look good, James.”

  “Thank you!” he smiled, “I’m Keto now.” You winced at his response and he laughed, “I know I know,” he shrugged, “I just.. needed a change.”

  “How’s.. Freddy? That was her name right?” you asked sheepishly

  “Good. Good, I assume” he answered and you awkwardly tried to backtrack

  “Oh. Oh god. I’m sorry, I just assumed--” you said, burying your face in your hands, “I just remember you being so.. into her.”

  “Yeah, I was,” he started, “but that was like five years ago. Things change, you know?” You nodded before fidgeting with your engagement ring, clearing your throat

  “Yeah.. they do.” You tried to come up with the words but you weren’t really sure when to say anything or how to say it. ‘Hey ex-boyfriend, I’m engaged. To the guy who you always knew I was in love with but I always tried to play it off like I wasn’t and made you feel paranoid for years... You happy for me?’

  “So how have you been? How’s Tyler?” he blurted out

  “Good. I’m good, he’s good. We’re engaged.” The words came out of your mouth so fast that they actually felt harsh and the silence lingered for only a few seconds before James laughed

  “I heard,” he admitted and you let out a sigh of relief, “congratulations. I’m really happy for you, both of you. I know how much you loved him and how much he loved you. The timing just wasn’t right then. I’m glad it is now.” You were shocked at how well he was taking everything

  “So who is she?” you said, inquisitively, positive that this sudden shift in personality was because he was in love.

  “There’s no girl” he smiled

  “Guy then?” you countered

  “No,” he chuckled, “I’m just making better choices.” You let the words just hang for a second while you thought about what that meant, not really knowing how to proceed.

  “You don’t still love me do you?” was all that came to you and he turned sharply to look at you

  “No.” he stated, “I mean, don’t get me wrong. I still think about you all the time. I’ve had the occasional dream that we were still together. I’ll probably always love you, in some way, but no. I’m not still in love with you.”

  “Good.” you said plainly, ending it with a smile

  “You’re in love without me then?” he continued, but looked straight ahead to avoid your eyes as you answered, “with him?”

  “Yeah. It hasn’t been all fairy tales and rainbows but I feel safe with him.” You replied, biting the inside of your cheek briefly before continuing, “that’s important to me. After everything I’ve been through. I like knowing that he’ll be there for me and that I get to be there for him.” He looked back at you with sorrowful eyes

  “I wish I could’ve been that for you”

  “You were. For a long time. And then you weren’t.” You said, “a lot of that was my fault. My trust issues. I don’t blame you for anything. If anything, I’m grateful for it all. Because our relationship made me understand what love is; how much compromise is actually needed.”

  “You think I’ll ever find a relationship that makes me grateful for all the shit we went through?” he joked

  “Yes. I think you’ll find the perfect person to drive crazy,” you chided, “the perfect person who makes you feel invincible. Who feels like home or Christmas or Chocolate Chip Cookies. Or whatever makes you the happiest you’ve ever been in your life.”

  “I hope you’re right”

  “Just keep doing what you’re doing. Being happy for yourself first is the best thing you can do. Everything else will fall into place when it’s supposed to.”

  “Can I ask a really.. awkward, painful question?” you winced slightly but agreed

  “Go for it”

  “When was the moment you realized it was over between us?” You thought about it for a moment; was it when he forced you to go to the police after your assault? when he cheated on you when you were on another continent? Was it when he offered an open relationship just to see his ‘mistress’?

  “Honestly,” you sighed, picking at your nail beds, “I think I realized it was over when we, both of us, stopped cuddling like we used to.”

  “What do you mean? We always cuddled?”

  “Not really. When we first got together, we couldn’t keep our hands off each other and that was typical. But whenever you felt weird about my friendship with Tyler, I felt you pulling away in small ways; like cuddling for a bit and then turning away from me. Initially, I didn’t think anything of it. But when.. what happened happened, I just wanted you to be there. You know? Like I didn’t want sex or to be touched in that way but I wanted to feel like you were still close to me. But you slept in a different room or kept your distance.”

  “You didn’t want me to touch you”

  “I never said I didn’t want you to touch me. I just... It’s hard to explain. There are as many different kinds of touch like there... Pokemon..”

  “Pokemon?”

  “Just go with me. It’s the first thing that came to mind,” you laughed, “There’s the touch that’s more or less meaningless. You know, like a literal touch on the shoulder that you’d get from your parents or gym teacher when they’re proud of you or have to tell you something important -- good or bad. Then there’s the soft touch. The one that you get from the person you love that sparks something in you. Then there’s the steamy touch. The one that leads to other things. Then there’s the sweet touch. The one that calms you down and clears your head. Finally, there’s the touch that you don’t want to feel. The one that you feel before it ever even happens. Before their skin ever meets yours. The one that leaves you feeling like you’ve just been dropped into a sewer and now you’re wondering if you’ll ever stop feeling that touch.” You weren’t sure if he understood what you were saying yet, so you waited until he said something but when he didn’t, you tried to explain, “I didn’t want that ‘steamy’ touch, I wanted the sweet touch. I can’t say for sure that I would’ve accepted it right away because I might have still been too fragile. But you didn’t try. It’s all so contradictory I know. I respect that you wanted to give me my space until I was okay again but I just wanted some way to not feel so awful about myself...”

  “So that’s when you stopped loving me?” You furrowed your brow

  “What? Whoa.. no. That’s a whole other question, and a whole other answer,” you confessed, “I stopped loving you when I left...” You noticed the confusion on his face and you cleared your throat to continue, “I never stopped loving you even when I felt like I lost you, even when you cheated on me and everything else that followed. Even during our last fight when I told you I kissed Tyler and we went back and forth about how it shouldn’t have been him. You remember that fight?”

  “Yeah.. you walked out on me after I said I didn’t want you to go.” You nodded

  “I needed you to realize that you lost. But I realized in that moment that our relationship was always going to be about him in some way. So, I had to say goodbye, but I still loved you. You were the only kind of love I had known for so long and I couldn’t just ignore that but I also couldn’t ignore the fact that when I left, when I walked out that door and cried my way to my sisters place,” you said, straightening your posture, “I felt like a giant weight had been lifted. It still hurt like a bitch but I knew it was right. I never meant to hurt you. Honestly. Everything just kind of happened so quickly and I didn’t.. feel you anymore. Does that make sense?” He nodded, indicating he understood, standing up and gesturing for you to do the same. He pulled you in for a hug and you squeezed him tightly

  “You’ll always be the one that got away” he smiled against your ear

  “You’ll always be the one that taught me what love is.” He walked you out and the two of you parted ways one last time. And it finally felt like you had closure.

[amandasmithstartupblog-blog]

Week 11 - Soy + Stone Update

So I had drafted this as a week 10 post prior to leaving for Japan and completely forgot to post for week 10. However the same milestones and progress still stand for week 11.

It’s difficult to report on what has been happening this week as I have travelling overseas for my sisters wedding so things have sort of come to a standstill. However, what I did accomplish prior to leaving.

Delivered orders that were placed in Week 8/9

Sent a follow up e-mail to the 2nd boutique

Poured candles in the pots that were painted and finished in week 8/9 in preparation for posting on Etsy upon my return

So far I am on track to make a profit by the end of the 14 week course, it may not be what I originally projected however being in the green is better than being in the red!

What I am learning about starting a business

I am learning that small businesses require a lot of work/life balance. I don’t think it’s reasonable to think that if I was to start the bridal salon I am aiming for I would still be working a full time job and commuting to Toronto everyday. However, with that said even working out of my home on a small craft business like this takes a lot of reorganization of my time and routines. It’s hard to do.