Over the past weekend I attended my BFF's Valentine's Day-themed bridal shower. Having received the inside scoop from the bride herself, I thought I'd share all her great tips for hosting a lovely love-themed soiree.

The bride really wanted her guests to get excited about the theme of her shower. For $1.25 ea. she dressed the hall in red chair covers finished with a huge bow on the back at 60 guests she payed $75 and what a statement...worth every penny!…

It was a monumental summer for the girls here at Confessions of a Thrifty Bride. We decided it would be logical and fun for us to attempt a foray into the bridal show biz. True to the nature of three ambitious ladies, we thought "hey, why do one show when you can tackle three?" 

And so began a whirlwind of a summer filled with more plotting and managing than pina coladas and martinis. We rarely seemed to take a breather without a new chaotic situation presenting itself…

On Sunday July 22nd, the team at Confessions of a Thrifty Bride hosted the first of three Bridal Bazaars set to take place this summer. Bright and early that morning, we rose from our wine-induced slumber and made our way, music pumping and butterflies-a-flutter, to the site of our first solo event. Vendors slowly began to trickle in to The Assembly Hall to garnish their tables with everything from favours and florals to shoes and cosmetics. We armed ourselves with Thrifty Cards and Ring…

I will admit to loving my UGGs; they are comfortable and warm and worn with love. But never, will I ever, extend that love to my walk down the aisle.

UGG Australia released its new ‘I Do’ line for brides in a confusing attempt to break in to the bridal footwear market. The three-piece capsule collection includes such gems as the jewelled Bailey Button I Do ($225 US) that comes in silver and dons a genuine Swarovski crystal button and the Sparkle I Do ($190 US) that is covered from tip…

As announced in the past couple of weeks, the gals at Confessions of a Thrifty Bride will be hosting a series of UNIQUE and FUN bridal shows this summer - Bridal Bazaar 2012. Unlike other bridal shows, we want our vendors to sell their products or services directly to Thrifty Brides. This allows vendors to achieve the same brand exposure as any other show, but with the added benefit of re-cooping funds. The shows will be held on July 22nd, August 19th and September 16th at …

Last week, spring officially sprung after a not-so-fierce winter. What a fabulous time of year to host a whimsical garden tea party for your bridal shower. I say, any excuse to wear a fancy hat is a good one. 

Here are some ideas if you're thinking afternoon tea with your closest gals to celebrate your upcoming wedding. 

An ideal setting for your tea party would be Toronto's own Botanical Gardens…

Imagine a bridal show that not only showcases budget-conscious vendors, but you were able to purchase products from them right then and there! That's the idea behind the newest bridal show presented by none other than your gals at Confessions of a Thrifty Bride.

Inspired by our love for thrift shopping and flea markets, the Bridal Bazaar 2012 offers a fresh twist on your run-of-the-mill bridal show (finally!). Walk around our chic market and check out our vendor's goods. If…

Are you stumped when it comes to figuring out the perfect dress for your 'maids who come in all shapes and sizes? Do you have a pushy bridesmaid who is never afraid to give her opinion? Do you dream of giving your bridal party a massive makeover? Then be sure to answer this casting call for a new reality TV show called Bridal Party Intervention. …

OK ladies, we are smack dab in the middle of bridal show season and I'm sure by this point you may have even attended one or two! This weekend marks the NATIONAL Bridal Show so you need to go in there guns blazin' (please don't take that literally!).  …

If you're tired of waiting for your man to pop the question, there has never been a better time to take matters into your own hands. Instead of exhausting the whole "piss or get off the pot" routine, why not grow a pair and ask him yourself?

This is one of the more exciting (and uber modern)…

As previously mentioned, I love myself a good vintage treasure hunt. While scouring my local Value Village's jewellery counter, I came across some fabulous brooches. I suddenly remembered what I think to be one of the coolest bridal trends in recent history: the brooch bouquet! It can add a pop of colour and some whimsy to your wedding day...not to mention it can be thrifty if you're looking in all the right places.…

Join {Confessions} of a THRIFTY Bride every Thursday as we detail some of the bridal world's 'goings on' in an around Toronto and the GTA.

What:…

Do you ever wish you can don the gorgeous dresses that decorate the runways of Toronto Fashion Week? Wouldn't that cute little David Dixon number be just perfect for your engagement party? Well fear no more, thrifty brides, because Rent frock Repeat makes designer threads affordable for you.

Think of them as your fashion fairy godmothers...you have an occasion, you visit the website, and…

Brace yourself, thrifty brides, for a show that is specifically geared towards those of us with big wedding dreams AND a budget (finally!). The Budget Friendly Bridal Show is back for a second season after meeting great success last winter. Join us this September 11th at Caledon Estates from…

After the bouquet has been tossed and the honeymoon enjoyed, it's time for newlyweds to begin the process of making two lives one. Brides who decide to take their new hubby's last name are in for a time-consuming step that involves paper work and load of patience. Luckily,…

Join {Confessions} of a THRIFTY Bride every Thursday as we detail some of the bridal world's 'goings on', in and around Toronto and the GTA.

What: Diamond Store Clearance Sale!!! Bling!

When: Limited time only

Where: On-line

The Details:…

Join {Confessions} of a THRIFTY Bride every Thursday as we detail some of the bridal world's 'goings on', in and around Toronto and the GTA.

What:  FREE Wedding Dance Evaluation at Arthur Murray

When: No…

Join {Confessions} of a THRIFTY Bride every Thursday as we detail some of the bridal world's 'goings on', in and around Toronto and the GTA.

Todays Thrifty Guide will focus on summer bliss...bikini-ready bods, conditioning products and a fabulous destination to flaunt it - because, yes, you've got it!

What:…

Group buying is more than just a trend – it’s an art form. I’ve mastered getting my hands on the best deals before they sell out, and I’ve come up with a foolproof way to scout deals you may be unsure of. So in the last little while, I’ve been thinking… why can’t I…

Join {Confessions} of a THRIFTY Bride every Thursday as we detail some of the bridal world's 'goings on', in and around Toronto and the GTA.

What: The Clothing Show, Spring 2011

When: May 27 - 29, 2011…