Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/162483
"Our wedding had its time; it came together perfectly and didn't go by too fast" Booking the venue for September 18 "set everything in motion." She met and "instantly clicked" with Erin Bishop of Filosophi Events; when Alissa returned to Toronto, Bishop became her "eyes and ears on the ground," as Alissa planned her wedding from a distance. Thankfully, technology aided the planning process. "When Erin and I saw things we thought were perfect for the wedding, we'd snap a photo on our phones and instantly let each other know," says Alissa, adding that hiring a single designer, Delovely Creative, to handle both floral and décor was similarly a lifesaver. David, who calls his wife's taste "impeccable," was happy to let her plan most of their nuptials, and Alissa's vision quickly took shape. She chose a "rustic glam" theme featuring an "eclectic mix of colours, patterns and textures" that permeated the outdoor ceremony, tented reception and bridal gown — a vintage-infused stunner with sheer sleeves by Monique Lhuillier. "My dress was sexy but still romantic," she says. "The mermaid shape highlighted my best features, which I knew David would love, and exuded an elegance and romance that felt timeless." With every detail finalized, the couple awaited their big day. "The thing we couldn't control was the weather, and that morning it was drizzling," Alissa recalls. "But we were Top left: Alissa's lucky . . . the clouds cleared." mother walked her They got their first glimpse of each other pre-ceremony down an "aisle" formed of autumn leaves and a in a West Side community garden abloom with the flowPersian runner. ers of early fall. "I waited for Alissa with my back turned; Top right: The old oak my heart felt like it was pounding out of my chest," David tree at Brock House proudly presided over remembers. "She tapped me on the shoulder and, when I Alissa and David's turned around . . . she took my breath away." outdoor ceremony. Middle: "It felt great to Photos were taken in several rustic settings, including a be married; we make a thicket of trees where Alissa went for a "hike" in her wedgreat team!" Bottom: Signing the ding dress. Among the most treasured images captured: ketubah — the photos of the bride with her beloved grandmother, who Jewish marriage contract, which trapassed away four weeks later. ditionally spells out a Back at Brock House, a Persian runner was laid across husband's obligation the lawn and beaded lanterns were suspended from tree to his wife. 48 R EA L WEDDINGS p46-49_International Affair.indd 48 4/24/12 3:07:11 PM