Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/391714
20 real weddings fall / winter 2014 realadvice "We have always approached decision-making as a team — whether it be a choice in wedding venue, or if we should switch to almond milk," says Vancouver marketing executive, stylist and recent groom Roberto Sousa, of his partnership with bride Erin Gerlach, a marketing and PR specialist. While not all grooms may possess Sousa's creative flair, there are many ways for guys to roll up their sleeves and get involved with — and even excited about — planning their own wedding. TAP HIS CREATIVITY "I recently sat down with a couple where I met the groom for the first time and asked them what song they'd selected for their recessional," recalls Stephanie Reitsma, owner and principal planner at Vancouver's Sweetheart Events. She suggested her clients add something fun, like a kiss and a dip halfway down the aisle to surprise their guests. e groom had been assuming he'd have to make the same old walk down the aisle he'd seen at previous weddings. Instead, he "got super excited about picking the music" and the freedom to be creative after hearing Reitsma's suggestions. "He came to life — it was incredible," says Reitsma. "When grooms get the opportunity to speak their mind they'll surprise you." But surprises are best served at the start, when ideas are first set on the table. "Get us [grooms] in at the ground floor; it will serve everyone better in the long run," says Sousa. Adds Reitsma to future grooms, "When you first get engaged, ask what's important for the wedding day. Be upfront with your bride and fully communicate what you want to be involved in. What excites you? What family traditions or elements of your love story do you want to share with your guests? ink past the traditional groom responsibilities [honeymoon, transportation, vows and attire] and outside the box — perhaps it's a surprise toast to your wife or a signature drink for cocktail hour." FIND HIS STRENGTHS How can your guy help? "Men like to show our love with service, so make it easy for us to help and play up our strengths," advises Sousa. "It's been my experience that the groom is more of a 'do-er.' Let's face it, I could not Why do it all yourself? Here's how to get your groom more involved in your wedding planning By Catherine Roscoe Barr Illustration by Lucia Emanuela Curzi Two ' s Company