Ethereal Bridal has officially unveiled its elegant new studio in the heart of Port Moody, marking a radiant new chapter for the beloved bridal brand founded by entrepreneur Elena Kawa. “Our boutique is 700 square feet,” shares Elena. “The new Port Moody studio is both a milestone and a promise—a larger space where brides can expect the same heartfelt service, expert guidance, and thoughtfully curated selection that have become Ethereal Bridal’s hallmark.”

Founded on the belief that choosing a wedding gown should be a joyful, pressure-free experience, Ethereal Bridal has become a trusted destination for brides seeking timeless beauty and personal connection. “My philosophy is rooted in creating pressure-free, meaningful experiences where every bride feels celebrated,” says Elena. “The grand opening is not just about unveiling a new space, but about welcoming the community into Ethereal Bridal’s story and sharing in the joy of new beginnings.”

A Space Designed With Love

Inside the boutique, beauty meets intention at every turn. The studio features exposed grey brick walls and twenty-foot ceilings, creating an atmosphere that feels both modern and romantic. Crystal chandeliers add sparkle, while the most advanced linear lighting was installed to replicate natural daylight—ensuring every gown shines in its truest form. “Every detail of the lighting design was thoughtfully planned to make the dresses shine in their truest form, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere,” Elena explains.

Mannequins by the windows showcase gowns bathed in sunlight, and elegant racks display an exquisite selection from designers including Aria, Angeo, Luce Sposa, Maria Anette, Tatiana Kaplun, and Kira Nova. A seven-by-seven-foot mirror and a custom rounded couch—finished in Ethereal Bridal’s signature shade of purple—define the fitting area, which offers comfort, privacy, and a stunning view of the nearby mountains.

The boutique’s focal wall features the brand’s timeless logo and a glowing neon sign that reads “I said yes to the dress,” creating the perfect photo moment for newly engaged brides. “When we opened the doors for the first time, it felt like a dream had come true,” says Elena. “Everything we envisioned for this space came to life, and I knew our brides would feel the love and care we put into every detail and every dress.”

A Community Celebration

Ethereal Bridal’s grand opening welcomed approximately 100 guests who enjoyed a photo booth by HW Photo Booths, thoughtful gifts, sparkling wine by Brilla, and decadent desserts. Guests mingled with Elena and her team, explored the boutique’s curated collections, and experienced the warmth that defines the Ethereal Bridal brand.

“Port Moody is such an incredible community in that it has welcomed us with open arms,” says Elena. “Our neighbors have been very supportive, and we are surrounded by wonderful local businesses and a friendly, artistic community.”

Looking Ahead

With upcoming appearances at the Luxe Wedding Soirée at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, the Swank Wedding Show, and Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week, Ethereal Bridal continues to elevate its presence and refine its designer roster. “We take great care in curating the designers we represent to ensure we offer only the best for our brides,” says Elena. “There are more exciting announcements to come very soon, so stay tuned.”

Ethereal Bridal at 2521 Clarke Street, Port Moody, is open exclusively by appointment, seven days a week—a boutique where every visit feels like stepping into a dream.

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West Coast Wild Beauty…This incredible West Coast Wild Beauty inspiration editorial, with Kleinfeld Bridal & Pnina Tornai, showcases the perfect moments that create West Coast Weddings! The power of the sea, the loveliness of the sunshine reflecting on the water, the burst of sunset colours in the sky… altogether a wild beauty that cannot be rivalled.

Weddings and elopements in Tofino & Ucluelet are wildly popular as couples embrace the beaches and ancient rainforests on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Mountain elopements, beach weddings, and forest nuptials – the experience is off the charts.

Special thanks to the team at Pnina Tornai and Kleinfeld Canada, who provided the extraordinary gowns, and our intrepid model Autumn, who braved the water and wind and made gown changes on the cliffs. Our photographer, Erin Wallis Photography, receives top kudos for capturing the extraordinary mood and feel of the wild nature of Tofino and the West Coast of Vancouver Island.

This Vancouver Island bridal inspiration shoot is full of fun and love behind the scenes. Karen of Petal & Kettle Floral Design designed the bouquet from a drawing that Laura of West Coast Weddings Magazine had sent. She took the idea and ran with it! The theme boards were the 1920s meets West Coast with the most luxurious bridal gowns. It was a Hail Mary to contact Kleinfelds and Pnina Tornai. Of course, the dresses were held up at the border, as were the designer Emmy London’s shoes. Welcome to Vancouver Island!

In the end, it turned out better than imagined. The rogue wave that hit turned out for the best, as shots were captured that we would not have tried before the gown was wet! Karen and Laura were crazy enough to be up on a ladder in the ocean, holding a chandelier over the cake and were thoroughly soaked in the process! Surfers on the Long Beach Lodge water’s edge photobombed. The final touch was an epic sunset. Erin Wallis had a photographer meltdown as the sky changed colors.  It was a Vancouver Island wedding moment in time. 

You are Invited to Join us for more West Coast Wedding Beauty by Erin Wallis Photography.

PHOTOS: Erin Wallis Photography | GOWNS: Pnina Tornai | VENUE: Long Beach Lodge Resort in Tofino | FLORAL DESIGN & DECOR: Petal and Kettle Parksville Florist | HAIR/MAKEUP: Petrichor Hair Workshop | SHOES: Emmy London | CAKE: Coastal Cake Company |  Gowns: Kleinfeld Bridal New York EDITORIAL DESIGN: Laura Kalcsa of West Coast Weddings Magazine

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Fabulous Wedding Shoes! “I want to wear boring shoes on my wedding day,” said no bride ever!  These fabulous shoes prove that anything goes for those with a flair for the original.  We love the sparkle, the vintage, and the colors that grace bridal soles lately…

But wait, you say, shouldn’t comfort be the most important consideration for your wedding day?  While it’s true that most bridal couples these days will end up trekking through nature at some point for those must-have photos, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your ‘sole’ dreams of an outrageous pair of shoes.

The most important way to ensure you are comfortable in your fabulous wedding shoes (or boots!), no matter your choice, is to break them in far before your big day. Please don’t pull your shoes out of their box for the first time the morning of your nuptials—you have to be a masochist to try that! So practice wearing your special day footwear far in advance.

Photographers quickly point out that they can capture amazing shoe photos early in the day. They prefer bridal parties with ‘sensible’ footwear waiting in the wings for outdoor photography sessions.  Of course, when it comes to the first dance, you will still want the fab shoes to be around, but there is no rule saying you must keep them on through the reception. (Check out this pair of Wizard of Oz-inspired ruby red slippers!)

What to wear for the casual part of your day? If you are going through the forest, you may need lace sneakers or a pair of stylish rubber boots.  However, if you are going to the beach, then be sure to check out the latest trend of bejeweled flip-flops!

So feel free to go for outrageously beautiful or simply outrageous shoes on your wedding day – but keep a pair of comfy ones within reach.  After all, your wedding day is the best excuse ever for a shoe adventure!

Heels by Erin Wallis Photography

Stylish Shoes by Summer Rayne Photography

Rainboots by Masika May Photography

Cowboy boots by Lilly Ann Photography

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Sultry Sunset Newlyweds

We loved this newlywed shoot so much that it was our Vancouver Island magazine cover photo – with many thanks to Myrtle and Moss Photography! (Not her first time in our magazine! – we also love her Greenhouse Romance shoot.) The sun slowly melted into the sparkling ocean and lit up these lovers as they looked over the picturesque view.  Waves crashed rhythmically against the rocks far below, a steady soundtrack to this perfect, timeless moment. The sky was painted with vibrant orange, pink, and purple streaks, but the bride stood out as the star with her amazing gown.

The picturesque Vancouver Island perch, with its panoramic views of sand, surf, and fiery sunset, is an ideal spot to look forward to a journey together. The blushing bride is an absolute vision in her stunning peach gown with sparkles. The soft, feminine hue perfectly hugs her curves in all the right places before flaring out dramatically into a frothy tulle skirt. Delicate lace appliqués adorn the fitted bodice, adding a touch of vintage romance. A sweetheart neckline showcased her décolletage while ruffled fabric sleeves grace her shoulders. Her hair is swept up in a loose, tousled updo with face-framing tendrils. The groom is not left behind as he is the perfect leading man in his black tux and tie – especially as he holds his bride in his arms as they look out over the water! 

We also love the bridal lace lingerie ‘undress’ moments. Why not show off what is underneath the beautiful gown? We think more brides should take these photos on their wedding day! (Also…check out those shoes! Yes, we are jealous.)

The flowers are just as romantic and extravagant as everything else. Dried palm leaves, roses, and silk ribbons pull together this iconic moment. (Check out more of Bespoke Blossoms designs!) They are paired with gold candelabras and candle sticks against an aged brick wall. The fun city shots are just a way to contrast with the stunning ocean sunset shots. The candlelight and shadows make for a luxurious feel to the urban city.

Sultry Sunset Newlyweds is one of our favorite cover shoots. It captures the feel of Vancouver Island’s naturally beautiful weddings and the couples who want to celebrate their love surrounded by the best that BC has to offer.

PHOTOS: Myrtle and Moss Photography | GOWN: K.OS Designs by Stefanie Kos | FLORALS: Bespoke Blossoms | HAIR: Willow Hairstyles | MUA: Eden Beauty | LASHES: Tania’s Beauty Corner | EARRINGS: Olive & Piper HAIR PIECE: Pretty Things Co. MODELS: Stefanie + Kent

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Aisle Style with Chrissie…2021 will go down in the books as the year of the ‘micro wedding’. With this shift to intimate weddings, we are seeing a welcomed new approach to bridal styling. Micro weddings and elopements have allowed Vancouver designers to expand their scope of bridal fashion and brides have a whole new list of options that were previously seen as not “bridal appropriate”. Pantsuits, mini-skirts, jumpsuits, silk slip dresses – the options abound!! Now, more than ever, Vancouver brides are thinking outside the box when it comes to their bridal style.

Here are a few micro wedding styling tips plus where to find all those bridal fashion essentials in Vancouver!

Fern & Moon is known for their effortlessly cool separates and let me tell you, they are STUNNING! Their new Hathaway Collection is insane – it’s cool-girl bridal fashion at its best! Whether it’s a mini or pencil skirt,  a gorge wrap dress or two different looks in one, Fern & Moon has most definitely got your back! Their collection can be styled and paired with non-bridal elements so seamlessly – it’s the perfect marriage of sexy and classy. @fernandmoon | www.fernandmoon.com

OM Couture is all about sophisticated unconventional designs that make a statement. Om has an eye for timeless style and if you are looking for a custom design look, then OM Couture is the spot! She recently released the 831 Bridal Collection which was a collaboration with international style influencer EM Megan. Not only is this collection SO much fun and impeccably made, but many of the pieces come in different colors! @o_m_couture | www.om-designstudio.com

Park & Fifth is a perfect fit for the modern chic bride who wants the versatility to wear her gown more than once! Whether you are walking down the aisle or celebrating a special occasion thereafter, your Park & Fifth gown will be the dress that keeps on giving! Park & Fifth celebrates and understands that women come in different shapes and they strive to provide fits that flatter a wide range of body types and sizes. @parkandfifthco | www.parkandfifthco.com

One last, but definitely not least, special mention is NYC-based designer Jenny Yoo, “Little White Dress” collection which is available at Vancouver’s Everly Fine Bridal. With a variety of flirty and classic designs, visit the babes at Everly and they will surely hook you up with a chic and effortless look.   Everly Bridal | www.everlyfinebridal.com

 The magic formula to styling a micro wedding look is mixing statement pieces with understated designs. There is no better way to do that than with accessories!!! Luckily for us, Vancouver is home to some of the most talented accessory designers out there and Aisle Style with Chrissie has a few favs!

Here are my top picks for local micro wedding accessory designers:

A frequent collaborator of BSV, Atelier Simone Martin designs’ defy the traditional ideas of ceremonial wear and celebrate individuality with an affinity for quality and luxury. Simone’s designs balance the drama of a statement piece while still keeping it elegant. Fashion-forward brides LOVE her! @ateliersimonemartin |simone-martin.com

Olive & Piper create a variety of classic feminine pieces, perfect for your wedding day and after! Whether you’re looking for studs, statement earrings, luxe bracelets, or hair accessories, Olive & Piper pieces are easy-to-wear, versatile, and affordable! @oliveandpiper | oliveandpiper.com

Veils have come a long way and have never been cooler thanks to the incredible Jane Rhyan | the collection. Feature image at top of page photographed by Meghan Hemstra Photography. This Vancouver gem designs for the classic beauties, the drama queens, and the fashionistas, they celebrate individuality and their collection The Meadow is legitimately a work of art!  @janerhyanthecollection | janerhyan.com

Bridal styling is not just about the dress and accessories. What goes on your feet is just as important. Go for a pop of color, an embellished shoe, a bit of shine, or a cute bootie! Steven Madden, Zara, Aldo’s as well as department stores like Nordstrom’s or Holt Renfrew have a huge variety of styles, heights, and colors to choose from!

So, ladies…even though you may be going “smaller” in scope for your micro wedding, it doesn’t mean you need to throw fashion out the window – on the contrary!  A micro wedding is the perfect opportunity to push the envelope with your bridal attire and create a look that is beautiful, stylish and totally you!!! Happy Shopping with Aisle Style by Chrissie! 

Chrissie S. Vides | Co-Founder/Creative Director @bridalstylevancouver  

The post Aisle Style with Chrissie – Vancouver Edition appeared first on West Coast Weddings.

 

Desert Boho Inspiration Palette…coloured glass, flowers, white fur throw and a skull bring this unique shoot together. We love the emerald green gown, the floral wreath and the mind blowing scenic landscape of Farwell Canyon. Imagination and creativity rules this inspirational shoot.

We were immediately drawn to this gorgeous bride in her lush colours. The red hair is boldly paired with the deep green gown. Complementing this colour choice are the floral wreath and bouquet which feature yellow, orange, pink and red blossoms with greenery. The protea are an incredible touch. The look of natural beauty works perfectly with the epically beautiful background of mountains and lake.

Speaking of the natural wonders in this shoot we admire the embrace of the desert look. British Columbia is filled with trees and lush greenery and sometimes our less green areas are left behind. Here the desert feel is the palette. Succulents are scattered across the table and set on pedestals. The colourful flowers sit in antique glass bottles (also…there is cheese!) and the skull is quite the centerpiece!

We will not leave out the groom who rocks the black suit and tie. He brings the touch of formality to the desert boho inspiration palette theme. Did we mention we think he rocks the bare feet look? His boutonniere features  a succulent and greenery.  This is certainly the palette for the adventurous couple who is looking for a desert feel to their west coast wedding.

Photos: Roberta McLean Photography | Hair & Makeup:  Jillian Clary | Styling: Something Borrowed Events | Florals/Design: Dream Day Bouquet 

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Bridal Fashion and Trends on Film…it begins with Fern of The Bride’s Closet missing the live style shows she would usually hold at the Island’s wedding shows. How could she fill this void? (SPOILER: see below!) Fern decided to gather her models (in a socially distanced way, of course!!) and video a fashion show in Nanaimo. Everyone was excited to join in this stylish idea and everyone began to plan their contribution to this event.

Laura, of West Coast Weddings, offered to make seven bouquets using local Eurosa Farms blooms. She designed boho, formal, traditional and modern bouquets to suit any gown design that Fern choose to show. Jess arrived early to make every model’s hair beautiful as the ladies began to don their gowns.

West Motion Media filmed the fashion show live at The Bride’s Closet and took the models through downtown Nanaimo locations and nearby cliffs and beaches. They could not do without some gorgeous drone shots to finish the day!

This live bridal show is a great Covid friendly idea for brides to watch the latest trends in wedding fashion. Bridal fashion and trends on film is a wonderful Vancouver Island moment we can all enjoy along with The Bride’s Closet!

VENUE AND STYLE: The Bride’s Closet | FILM: West Motion Media | PHOTOS: Janayh Wright Photography | HAIR: Jess of Thrive Eco Salon | ACCESSORIES: Laura Jayne Bride | FLORAL DESIGN: Laura of West Coast Weddings | FOOTAGE: True Flight Film | MODELS: Arielle, Ashley & Erin 

Be sure to watch the amazing live film by West Motion Media here!

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Garden of Eden Wedding Inspiration….the idea of a wonderland where all your favorite bridal pretty are showcased! This beautiful shoot is set in the midst of nature with luscious greenery and blooming florals. The details, like floral, fruits and desserts are planned and coordinated by Elena from Fluffy Blooms Events and is captured beautifully by L’Estelle Photography.

The brides model custom handmade gowns designed by Majesty Bespoke which boast intricate embellishments and delicate details. Each gown had it’s own personality with one featuring white lace flounces – even on the sleeves! A pale grey and white striped gown showcased the bridal bouquets perfectly. The piece de resistance was a blush pink gown with intricate bodice and gorgeous skirt. Pink peonies, white and purple roses, greenery and orchids in lush abundance surrounded the brides. Spectacular flower columns, arrangements and bouquets adorned the garden around an antique settee and sweetheart table.

Beautiful décor pieces from Ellssi Design set the scene perfectly, especially with the gorgeous velvet green couch as the centerpiece. The wood tables are perfect backdrops for the summer fruits, florals and beautiful hand crafted cake by Crown City Cakes all surrounded by breathtaking florals of every shades, the floral installation is created by Vivio Flowers. The white layered plates with fruit slices, blush pink antique wine glasses and gold cutlery with peonies are the perfect touch on the unique tablescape.

We especially love the soft and romantic stationery suite designed with real florals embedded in resin. Like a piece of beauty frozen in time, it matches the set perfectly with this whimsical theme of a Garden of Eden Wedding Inspiration.

Photography – L’Estelle Photography | Concept Creation, Planning & Styling – Fluffy Blooms Events | Decor – Ellssi Design & Rentals | Floral Design – Vivio Flowers |  Bridal Gowns – Majesty Bespoke |  Cake Design – Crown City Cakes |  Stationery – Rintzylee Designs |  Model – Margo @m.unvrs

You are invited to another lovely garden wedding inspiration shoot!

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Aesling Minimalist Dress Collection 2021…we are thrilled to continue to showcase British Columbia bridal gown designers. This collection highlights the belief that structure and texture speak for themselves, and that excess doesn’t equal quality. These gowns feature supple crepe, stretch satin lining, and a lightweight organza which allows the design to carry volume while remaining light & airy.

Bridal wear has come a long way since what it once looked like in its most traditional form. Aesling wedding dresses were designed for the modern day woman who seeks timeless attire. This year’s editorial look book was shot in natural light in a concrete interior, which allowed a beautiful contrast to the crepe dresses and follows the idea that there is beauty in simplicity.

The name Aesling was derived from the Irish term aisling, which refers to a vision or a dream. The 2021 dresses were named after unique words with beautiful meanings, like Sonder, which means to move or bend gracefully. We love this idea of bringing together beauty and meaning in bridal dresses.

We loved the detachable organza puffed sleeves, the pockets!!, and illusion side panels in the 2021 collection. The gowns perfectly showed off trains that were not overdone but still made a statement of occasion. Aesling Minimalist Dress Collection 2021 is a wonderful example of local custom design for the West Coast Bride.

Dress Design : Aesling Bride (@aeslingbride) | Photographer : Ian Lanterman (@ianlanterman) | Model: Sara Borowski of Stranger Agency (@strangeragency)

You are invited to view another locally designed gown collection!

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Urban Elopement at Fort Common | We love love love this highly stylish elopement inspiration in downtown Victoria. The couple are the epitome of the city wedding – the groom in his casual black tie with his sophisticated bride beside him. The palette is inspired by the photographer’s obsession with Reclamation and her wish to showcase the celestial gown in an urban mood.

Why the photographer’s obsession with this gown designer? Reclamation is a fascinating one woman show run by Trista, who promises to create one of a kind pieces. Her mantra is that all women are one and all gowns are meaningful, therefore, gowns should be reclaimed from the past. The dresses are artfully reclaimed and created with vintage and up cycled materials. She is known for remodeling gowns from mothers and grandmothers so that the history of the women in the family are represented into the future generation. Of course, this makes all of the gowns eco friendly! 

The gown used for this urban elopement feels like an angelic vibe with the light sheen and metallic shimmer. The  bell sleeves, the flowing skirt with high cut…it all leads to a sultry bridal look. The summer bouquet of pink, peach and purple garden roses and peonies pop against the gown – tied artfully with a pink ribbon. The attitude and feel of the city is the perfect backdrop to the beautiful couple. 

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