Next up in my wedding blog series: The Reception! Writing these has let me relive the most magical days of our lives, and this one feels extra special because it’s all about the dinner, the reception, and the dancing. If I could bottle up this night and live it over and over again, I would in a heartbeat.
Dinner and Details
Walking into the tent took my breath away. The first thing you saw walking into the tent was the most beautioful seating chart I’ve ever seen LOL! Floral displays scattered the entire exterior and interior of the tent and every table looked like its own little piece of art. I loved being able to incorporate some of our favourite small businesses and Jilly Box brands into the tablescapes, it felt like such a reflection of everything we’ve built and the people who have supported us along the way.
The custom blue dance floor and bar were such showstoppers, and our blue vintage style cake by Kakes by Kathie was so beautiful. We even had custom napkins for our pups, and yes… there was a churro station for Churro! We set up a cozy “living room” corner by the tent where our “in loving memory” photos and keepsakes lived, where of course, Sweet Nacho was remembered too, both in our hearts and through the memory table. It was a quiet little space that made the whole evening even more meaningful.
Of course, Justin and I are big foodies, so the food and drink was another highlight of the night. White Table Catering has been with us for so many celebrations over the years and their team created the most incredible meal, served with so much love. The bartending team absolutely crushed it too, and the drinks kept flowing from our custom bar all night long!
The Kids
This part of the evening deserves its own blog (stay tuned!) but we wanted to make sure the kids felt extra special and included. We had a candy bar, a movie station playing My Girl (our kids’ fave movie), a bouncy castle, and even freshly popped popcorn. Seeing the kids running around, laughing, and playing made the whole celebration feel that much more joyful… plus it was the perfect way to keep them entertained (supervised by a babysitter, of course) while the parents ate, danced and enjoyed the evening!
The Speeches
The speeches were unforgettable.
My parents had us laughing and crying and then laughing again, sharing heartfelt memories and advice with everyone. We have been through so much together, and I’m so grateful for their endless love and support. Justin’s parents were so beyond sweet AND entertaining, pairing music with each part of their speech. They had us twirling napkins in the air, singing Hallelujah, and laughing so hard we cried.
Tori and Sam (literally) dusted off their speeches after all these years and they were worth the wait. They had the perfect balance of humour and love, and I am so grateful for my sisters. Justin’s brother Matt gave such a sweet, heartfelt speech. He’s truly felt like my brother for years, but it felt so special to hear his words and know that I officially gained a brother that night. We feel so lucky so have such incredible people in our lives.
The Dancing
Once the speeches wrapped up, it was time to hit the dance floor. After the first dance, and a few family dances, Side One Band took over and kept the dance floor packed all night long. Aaron Pritchett jumped in and gave the most incredible performance which had everyone on their feet. The whole night was so much fun, and truly everything I had ever dreamed of!
We ended the night with Mystic Pizza which was the perfect late night bite after hours of dancing.
Our Dream Team
None of this would have been possible without our incredible vendors:
Videography: Lumina Weddings
Event Planners: Smitten Events
Catering: White Table Catering
Dress: Cande Bridal
Justin’s Tux: Harry Rosen
Photography: Minted Photography
Hair Stylist: Pomme Salon
Makeup Artist: Jenny McKinney
Bridal Makeup: Kaitlin Hargreaves
Rings: Minichiello Jewellers
Floral Designer: Fleurich Creations
Event Designer: Vintage Origami Weddings
Tent & Rentals: Avalon Rentals
Decor Rentals: Purple Rhino Events
Bartending: Sip n Celebrate
Beverage Cart: Okanagan Bubbles & Co
Reception Band: Side One Band
Cake: Kakes by Kathie
Table Top Rentals: The Curated Plate Co
Late Night Pizza: Mystic Pizza
Event Stationery: Minted
I can’t even put into words how full my heart was that night… and still is. Surrounded by our family, our friends, and all of the little, personal details that made this day uniquely ours, it was a night I will never forget. Can we relive it again, please??
Click here to view the full wedding reception gallery!!
xo
Jilly and Justin
