Happy February friends!! That truly felt like one extra long January, so we are excited to welcome in a new month here in the office. This cold and wet time of year has us discussing our favourite products that keep our skin looking fresh and moisturized (take a peek below to check out what works for us), as well our favourite things about Valentines day with our hunnies! Lots of love to you from all of us at the FKE office! Xoxo

Favourite Valentines Day Gift

Barb: Flowers!

Laura: Nice bottle of red wine

Paula: Cupcakes from Ooh La La

Skincare Product We Are Loving

Barb: Drunk Elephant Day Serum

Paula: Lush Bunny Moon Face Mask

Laura: Rodan & Fields Redefine Eye Cream

Favourite Latest Purchase

Barb: BKIND French Pink Nail Polish

Paula: Abeego Food Wrap

Laura: Honey Tobacco Soy Candle

Office TalkBarb WalkerFebruary 2, 2018Comment

Real Wedding: Tara & Matt

We're diving a bit into the archives today, but I couldn't resist blogging this charming soiree from back in September 2016! And to be honest, I'm not sure why I haven't shared it already! Where does the time go?! lol! This wedding was filled with a ton of my favourite things: gorgeous outdoor spaces, a fantastic band, intimate candlelight, and a group of people that are filled with a whole lotta love!

The day was filled with vintage touches, lots of music and a ton of fun! We drew inspiration from both the prohibition jazz age and British post-war garden parties (a combo of both Tara & Matt's personal styles!), and created the perfect atmosphere to celebrate the couples new marriage! Taking many cues from the garden setting at Starling Lane, the games, decor and food was a modern take on a vintage garden party. And the music and drinks, featured all night long, had a fun throw back to the prohibition days! Our light and fresh colour palette of peach, apricot, blush & grey was tied throughout both Starling Lane and Fireside Grill, and the formal components found in Britain during the 20’s will be highlighted through the vintage place settings and elegant paper goods.

And as always, so many vendors came together, to make the day as truly spectacular as it was! It was our first time working with the fantastic husband/wife duo, Sambajoy, and they are as awesome as they are talented! The band, Good Co. Music, came up from Seattle, and treated everyone to true jazz age entertainment. And the food....oh the food...both Toque Catering & Fireside Grill hit it out of the park on this one! Thank you, Tara & Matt, for having us be a part of your truly fun day! And I hope that you all enjoy the photos below. xo

**Make sure to scroll to the bottom for the complete list of all the kick ass vendors that helped make this day so incredible! All photos courtesy of Sambajoy.

Planning/Design - French Kiss Events
Photography - Sambajoy
Florals - Thorn & Thistle
Ceremony Venue - Starling Lane Winery
Cocktail Reception Catering - Toque Catering
Reception Venue - Fireside Grill
Band - Good Co.
Makeup - Melanie Baird
Hair - Mandy Rogers, Hunt & Gather
Cake - Ruth & Dean
Invitations - Minted

Real WeddingsBarb WalkerJanuary 22, 2018Victoria Wedding, victoria wedding planner, Victoria Event Planning, Starling Lane Wedding, Fireside Grill, Winery wedding, Sambajoy, Toque Catering, Thorn & Thistle, Melanie Baird, Ruth and Dean, wedding design, Prohibition theme wedding, Restaurant wedding, wedding ceremony Comment

Currently Inspired by: Edition 14

This month we are currently inspired by Pantone's colour of the year- Ultra Violet! We are loving this bold choice, and have been brainstorming all of the ways we can incorporate it into our colour palettes.

Stationary
Subtle touches in stationary is a unique way to make your invitations stand out.

Florals
Whether it's through blooms or succulents, this colour adds a deep romantic look.

Textiles
A watered-down version of this colour for your linens is a great way to include the colour of the year at your event.

Office TalkBarb WalkerJanuary 18, 2018pantone colour of the year, pantone color of the year, wedding planner victoria, wedding designer, ultra violetComment

Year in Review: 2017

As I sit here writing this, with my 2 week old daughter in my arms (one handed typing is super slow fyi!), I am blown away with how much can change in a year. 2017 was definitely a year of change for me personally, and chugging along beside all that change was a business that I love more than I thought possible, and a crew that is making it possible for me to balance life and work. This past year, we tore down our house and built a new one, found out we were pregnant (yay!) and welcomed baby Madison into the world, welcomed 2 new planners to the Heyday team, and worked with 11 amazing couples, bringing their dream weddings to life. It was a big year, and a really really good one. As I have over the past few years, I thought it would be fun to take a look back over the year that and share with you the highlights. So, without further adieu, here we go!

The year started off as I like it to...nice and slow...We had a really cold winter in Victoria (which is super rare!), and enjoyed lots of cozy nights in and even a few snow days here and there! A highlight though was seeing Mica & Nate's wedding featured on SMP here. If you remember this wedding from last year, you'll remember how special it was, and getting to see it published was such a treat!

Come February, we took our annual trip over to Saltspring Island with some really good friends, and enjoyed 4 days of games, hikes, wine, runs & really really good food. We also met up with AMERIS in February to take some new team photos for the site. A whole lot of hilarity ensued (as it usually does with them), and I loved getting to update the site with Paula & Nick added on, as they are both so instrumental to FKE! With the arrival of Spring, weekends were completely filled with meetings, mockups, site visits, and full on prep for the upcoming summer of weddings.

In April, I had the opportunity to team up with some seriously inspiring ladies, and put together a styled shoot that was totally out of my comfort zone. The results were drop.dead.gorgeous., and I can't wait to share the images with you all very soon! Stay tuned... Paula & I also signed up for a Modern Calligraphy class taught by the wickedly talented Kate Campbell, and our obsession with wedding signage grew that much more! In the middle of the month, Nick & I escaped to the Okanagan with some friends, for the Easter long weekend, for a much needed vacay before the craziness of wedding season began. And let me tell you all this: the Okanagan is AMAZING! Go there immediately! So much delicious wine (obviously!) and food! And the wineries...so many beautiful spaces! I would absolutely love to start planning a wedding or 2 there each year, and so I am putting it out into the universe for 2019. Any couples out there that love wine country as much as me? Take me with you!

After a really relaxing Winter & Spring, $*%t got real in May: We tore our house down and found out I was pregnant (all within the same week, just in case you were curious lol!). Wedding season was just around the corner as well, and our sister company, Heyday, kicked off the season with a stunner at Starling Lane Winery. This wedding was featured on SMP (woohoo!!). And at the end of the month, we helped to gather all of our favourite people in the Victoria wedding industry at the annual Meetup. This time, Toque treated us to an incredible sit down feast, and I honestly don't know how we are going to top it in 2018!

June kicked off the FKE wedding season, and once it got rolling, there was no stopping until October. This season was also the season of live music (woohoo!), which is hands down, my favourite part of weddings. Our first 4 weddings all had bands, which kept the parties going well into the night. We stayed close to home this year, celebrating at a family farm, an English estate, a winery, and some of the most iconic spots in Victoria (hello Empress!), just to name a few. In June, I also took the leap, and started to take guitar lessons! Random, right?! I've wanted to learn for years, and finding out I was pregnant was the final straw that got me to the music school. In my mind, I'm going to be able to play like this within a year, but in reality, we all know that is never going to happen lol!

In July, Nick & I escaped to Vancouver to see Jack Johnson (#bucketlist), and then also managed to take off to Saltspring Island again for our dating anniversary. We seriously love that place! Upon our return, it was back to weddings! There were some seriously stunning ones this year, and as the galleries come in, I'm reminded how lucky I am to work with such amazing couples, and equally amazing vendors who help me pull off these wicked celebrations!

August & September took us to another farm, an Inn by the sea, an Island resort, a Castle, and back to the Empress (twice). I also did a little happy dance when this wedding was published in Real Weddings (#pinchme).

In October, feeling insanely pregnant (hello third trimester!), Nick & I headed off on a baby moon to our absolute favourite place in the world....you guessed it...Maui! Our days were spent debating whether we should go to the beach or pool (tough decisions!), eating a lot of delicious food, and really soaking up the last few moments of it being just the 2 of us. Upon returning home, life started to move at warp speed. Our house was nearing the finish line, all things baby prep officially took over, and we were so honoured to have an incredible baby bash hosted for us by Laura! I was also stoked to add Bonnie to the Heyday team, and made it official with a new team shoot for the Heyday site!

At the beginning of December, we moved into the house!! Woohoo!! The timing couldn't have been better, and our incredible builders, Philco Construction, worked their butts off to make sure we were in the house before baby came! The rest of the month was spent unpacking, settling in, and working as hard as possible on all of our 2018 weddings before baby arrived. And on December 23rd, our whole life completely changed, with the arrival of Madison Elizabeth Walker. We are head over heels in love with her, and she has already stolen both of our hearts in a big way. Basically the best way to end this incredible year, and I have no idea how 2018 is going to top it. But...I am up for the challenge, and can't wait to see what the new year brings!

Office TalkBarb WalkerJanuary 9, 2018Victoria Wedding, victoria wedding planner, Victoria Wedding Planning, victoria bc wedding planner, FKE Living, FKE Weddings, pnw wedding, year in review, wedding planner, wedding planner victoria Comment

Office Talk: Edition 13

Hello 2018!!! We couldn't be more excited to start off a new year here in the office, with so many gorgeous weddings to plan. A lot happened at the very end of 2017- Barb finished building her dream home, we have a new office, and a tiny new FKE team member in the form of Madison Walker was born! We are sad the holidays are over, but so excited to get back into the swing of things and make some gorgeous events we can be proud of.

P.S. We decided to give our "Guilty Pleasures" a new name: Office Talk! Stay tuned for our monthly discussions about what we are chatting about here in the office.

Favourite Christmas Gift

Barb: Madison Walker

Paula: Blue Ruby Necklace

Laura: Lululemon Jacket

Goal for 2018

Barb: Host more dinner parties

Paula: Take more photos

Laura: Create photo albums

Current Netflix Binge

Barb: The Crown (Season 2)

Paula: Black Mirror (Season 4)

Laura: This Is Us

Office TalkBarb WalkerJanuary 6, 2018Comment

Happy Holidays 2017

Holiday photo hilarity provided by Jesse Holland Photography!

What. A. Year! I'm not going to spend too long talking about it, as I'll save that for our annual year end review (coming up in January), but let's just say that between building a new house, expecting our first little babe any day now, and an INCREDIBLE year of weddings and kick ass clients, I have a LOT to be thankful for this year! The holidays have always been my favourite time of year, and even though this years holiday season is looking a lot different for us, I am loving it all the same. There's just something magical about the shorter days and cozy evenings (#hygge all the way!)...

So, as we continue to wait impatiently over here for baby girls arrival (yes, yes....Christmas Day may in fact be spent in the hospital, so stay tuned!), I want to take this time to wish all of you the most wonderful holiday season! I have so much love and admiration for the FKE family & tribe, and can't wait for all the new adventures heading our way in 2018! Let's just say, while 2017 was a wicked year...2018 is already giving it a run for its money! Happy Holidays everyone!!!

xo
Barb

Barb WalkerDecember 22, 2017 Comment

Currently Inspired by: Edition 13

If you're anything like us, you love decorating the house for the holidays! Put on your favourite onesie, listen to some Michael Bublé, and break open those boxes hiding up in the attic. It's the perfect way to get in to the Christmas spirit. Take a scroll to see some of the things currently inspiring us this holiday season.

Splashes of Tartan
This little touch is a great way to add some warmth and elegance to your home, just like the Scottish would!

Mantle Displays
There is nothing better than a beautifully decorate fireplace mantle around the holidays. It creates a gorgeous focal point in any living room.

Holiday Cocktails
Indulge in some extra special cocktails that look like they came from a Christmas market this season. Click on the images below for recipes of the Campfire Cocktail and Spiced Hot Chocolate.

Office TalkBarb WalkerDecember 15, 2017Comment

FKE Holiday Gift Giving Guide

"It's the holiday season....and Santa Claus, is comin' round....the Christmas snow, is white on the ground...". Ok, so maybe the Christmas snow isn't exactly here yet, but the carols are on, holiday baking has started, and we are EXCITED for the holiday season to officially launch this week! One of our favourite parts of the season (besides curling up on the couch to watch The Holiday with a big mug of hot chocolate), is hitting up all the fantastic boutiques here in town! It is always my mission every year, to support as many small local businesses as possible, and we are so spoiled here on the West Coast to have an overabundance of fantastic options! So, to officially kick off the season, we've rounded up some of our favourite local gifts that can be found right here in Victoria! So whether you're shopping for your best friend who always throws together the best charcuterie platters, or your co-worker who you know has a sweet tooth, we've got you covered! Have a read below, and let us know in the comments, if we are missing any must-have items in the city!

A Modern Bodger cheese board: For the charcuterie connoisseur in your life

These stunning boards come in all shapes and sizes, and are an absolute staple in the kitchen! Each one is made by hand, and the craftsmanship that goes into them is stunning. And pair it with a Gift Card to Charelli's, and you'll be sure to get an invite to the next wine & cheese night at your friends place!

Where to buy: Nicholas Randall or Online.

A Tara McHugh Flora Gift Box For the one who needs some quality R&R time

This gorgeous box includes a Lindsay Remple water colour print tea towel, Drizzle honey, 9" tapered hand dipped pure Canadian beeswax candles from Beeswax on Salt Spring Island, and Tara Mchugh Flora tea tin. She has lots of other gift boxes to pick from.

Where to buy: O nline

First, We Brunch Recipe Book for the foodie

This brunch book that features recipes from local Victoria spots is the perfect gift for your brunch squad. Tons of local eateries are feature with lots of stories about how they opened and life in Victoria.

Where to buy: Ruth & Dean

First, We Brunch by Rebecca Wellman, $27.95

'Modern Baby' Clothing for the new mama

And for the trendiest little one in your life, this local Victoria mother & daughter team make organic and stylish clothing, accessories, and blankets. We can't get enough of all the adorable pieces!!

Where to buy: Online or Amelia Lee or Finn & Izzy

Hand-picked Macarons for the coworker with a sweet tooth

This is one of our favourite little gifts for when you are in a pinch. Bon Macaron Patisserie on Broad Street makes so many delicious flavours that you can handpick the perfect flavours to put in one of their adorable gift boxes.

Where to buy: Bon Macaron Patisserie

The Honey Tobacco Collection for the new age Martha Stewart

This cozy scent is Picot Collective's signature fragrance that can be purchased as a hand-crafted body mist, candle, body butter, and roll-on scent.

Where to buy: Pigeonhole or Online

Pendleton Blanket for your S.O.

What's more perfect than a real wool blanket for you and your significant other to curl up in by the fire.

Where to buy: Nomad on Government Street

Monthly Subscriptions

The gift that keeps on giving! Surprise someone special with these monthly subscriptions of flowers, socks, or coffee that treat them every month.

Where to buy: Online (click on the image to take you to the website)

Thorn & Thistle Flower Subscription, Starting at $150 — *Thorn & Thistle* Flower Subscription, Starting at $150

Sock Fancy Sock Subscription, $12/month — *Sock Fancy* Sock Subscription, $12/month

Professional Photo Session for the new family

Spoil some of your favourites with a family photo shoot with a professional, so they will have memories that last a lifetime. There are so many fantastic photographers that offer family sessions, so just reach out to your favourite local photographer to see about their family packages!

Mug & Hot Chocolate Set for the chocolate lover

A mug with hot chocolate will be sure to please any sweet tooth this winter. Tip: Supply them with Mexican hot chocolate for extra richness and a hint of spice this season.

Where to buy: Nomad and Murchies

Advent Calendars

We know chocolate is a classic, but why not mix it up this year? Create your own 12 days of growlers advent calendar for your favourite brewery lover, or check out the David's Tea 24 days of tea for the tea lover in your life!

Click on the picture to to take you to their websites.

Driftwood Brewery Growlers, $19 for growler with beer

David's Tea 24 Days of Tea, $45 — *David's Tea* 24 Days of Tea, $45

FKE Living, Office TalkBarb WalkerDecember 2, 2017Gift guide, victoria wedding planner, Shop local, First we brunch, Tara McHugh Flora, Modern bodger, Christmas gifts, Christmas gift guide Comment

Building a Home: Chapter 3

It has been a long time since I've blogged about the house build, but if you follow me over on Instagram & Insta Stories, then you've no doubt seen a few updates here and there throughout the process. And folks....we are SO close! Yippee!! Watching our dream house be built has been incredible, and even though the last 7 months have felt very long at times, I can't believe that we are basically on schedule and should be moving in before the holidays! So, I thought it would be fun to share with you some of the progression photos from the last 7 months, and also dive a bit into the challenging parts of the house build. Because as much as it truly has been a really positive experience and loads of fun, it has had its moments, that's for sure, and I think it's important to throw in a couple reality checks every now and then ;)

Where we've been hanging our hats!
Parents to the rescue! We have been "rooming" with my parents since May, and we are incredible grateful that they have welcomed us with open arms, and basically fed us dinner for the past 7 months straight. No complaints here that's for sure! It has added a large commute to our regular routine though, and not having our own space (especially while being pregnant) isn't always ideal. My parents seriously rule though, and not having to pay rent throughout this process has been a lifesaver...not to mention helped with our furniture shopping budget!

Throwing a wrench in my work routine:
Not having my home office has honestly been the biggest challenge of all. I had no idea how much I loved working from home, until I no longer could. I've been jumping from coffee shop to coffee shop for the better part of the last 6 months, which is not only annoying, but can also get a bit expensive lol! It's also been a big adjustment for me, having to plan my days in a totally different way than I am used to. So, when I leave the house in the morning, I am leaving the house for the full day. No more just jumping into town for a meeting or an errand here and there. It definitely isn't the worse thing in the world, and my reward at the end of this is going to be a brand spankin' new space at home to work from, so I really can't complain all that much. But, combined with being pregnant throughout the entire build, this has for sure been the hardest part for me.

Managing the dog:
Taio is our "chog" (you know - Child/Dog), and has been totally spoiled his entire life, in that he is either at home with me or at the store with Nick. So, the fact that we haven't really had a home to leave him in (without feeling totally guilty that my parents have to look after him), has had its challenges. I've gotta give it to the dog though, as he's been pretty great about his whole world being turned upside down this year.

As I mentioned above though, this whole process has been absolutely incredible, and so a few challenges along the way are nothing to worry about. We have our fantastic builders, Philco Construction, to thank for that! I can't imagine having to be our own contractors throughout this journey, or not having complete trust with our builders. We can't wait for move in day, and to show you all the finished product! And then the fun part begins...the decorating!

FKE LivingBarb WalkerNovember 28, 2017Comment

Currently Inspired by: Edition 12

November is just flying by and colder weather has us loving winter tones and raw textures. Shops are already piling on the Christmas decor, and we can't help but get excited for the holidays and all of the fun that comes with it (ie. hot chocolate, colourful lights, and Michael Bublé on the radio!) Take a scroll to see what else is inspiring us this time of year.

This Colour Palette
These moody tones including dusty pink and mustard are so lovely! A modern twist on some amazing vintage colours.

Linen Signage & Stationary
We are loving this natural and organic look created by using fabric for signage instead of paper! A great way to add more texture into your decor.

Scandinavian Wrapping Paper
Christmas is around the corner and this simple and modern look is sure to please. Whether you go the DIY route or purchase some Scandinavian style paper, the result is adorable.

Office TalkBarb WalkerNovember 16, 2017Comment

A Modern Bodger cheese board: For the charcuterie connoisseur in your life

A Tara McHugh Flora Gift Box For the one who needs some quality R&R time