While the bride and her gown typically get all the attention on the big day, grooms are looking to make more of a fashion statement at the altar. Tux rental stores may have limited options for styles and sizes, but getting a bespoke suit can take a big bite out of the budget. So what’s a fashion-forward fellow to do.

Alex Ethans, Andrew Parkes and Maciek Hunek faced a similar conundrum when they graduated business school and searched for stylish, well-fitting, affordable suits to propel them into the workforce—with little success. “We thought back to our experiences getting clothes tailored overseas and thought that there had to be a way to bring that fun, intimate custom experience to the masses.”

They launched EPH Apparel as an online custom menswear store in 2010 and quickly grew to include a brick-and-mortar storefront in Winnipeg. They opened their first Alberta storefront in Calgary last summer at 815-10^th Ave SW, across from MEC. Because they don’t need to carry inventory and have invested heavily into efficient production methods, EPH can offer quality made-to-measure two-piece suits for $300-$650, and three-piece suits for $400-$800.

Customers can visit the store for personalized service or pursue the options online and provide measurements to order. A single suit will take 4-8 weeks to produce, but they require a minimum of three months for wedding party orders. Once the suits arrive, they offer free in-house alterations or a $75 credit for out-of-town customers to get their suit tailored. “We really want everyone to love the fit of their suit, and sometimes that means it needs some tinkering. We don’t want anyone to have to pay extra for that.”

The founders say vibrant shades of blue are still trendy for suits, but many parties are breaking the mould with maroon—especially for fall weddings. Linen is still a staple fabric for beach weddings due to its lightness and breathability, but they are starting to see more orders in grey and blue over classic tan.

Whether your style is traditional, bold or somewhere in-between, be sure to follow Blush Magazine on Facebook and Instagram for your chance to win one of three EPH suits!

We are so fortunate to have one of the world’s most spectacular settings right in our backyard—the Rocky Mountains. While the Rockies are gorgeous any time of year, winter is undoubtedly when they’re at their breathtaking best. Cozy up to your love and say “I do” to a wedding in your own winter wonderland.

1. Picture-Perfect Views (Carey Nash Photography)

Sparkling white snow, dramatic mountain peaks, and an indescribable stillness—the Rockies in the winter are a photographer’s dream and the perfect setting to capture the intimate moments after the vows. Plus, because most tourists prefer to explore in the summer, you’ll have the best locations all to yourself.

2. Rustic Venues (Barbara Rahal Photography)

Warm up with a cozy reception in a charming mountain lodge! Surrounded by nine acres of forest, Buffalo Mountain Lodge on Tunnel Mountain feels completely secluded yet is within walking distance of downtown Banff. The upper level of the Wapiti Longhouse boasts a high-beamed ceiling and a large stone fireplace, while the main-floor wine cellar is ideal for cocktail hour.

Originally built as a teahouse in 1923, Deer Lodge in Lake Louise retains much of its original hand-hewn log structure and décor. You can even book the whole lodge and all 71 guest rooms for a private mountain getaway for you and your guests.

If you’re looking for something even more intimate, you can rent your own island. Emerald Lake Lodge features three rooms that can hold weddings for up to 88 people or 150 when you rent the place just for yourselves.

3. Endless Adventure (Orange Girl Photos)

 There truly is something for everyone in the Rockies! Thrill-seekers can hit the slopes, ride high in a gondola, or take a fast-paced tour led by a team of huskies. Those who like to set their own pace can explore the region on cross-country skis or snowshoes. Even those averse to the cold can stay in and cuddle by the fireplace, relax in a hot tub, or bundle up together on a romantic sleigh ride.

***This is a sponsored post. Blush has been compensated to write and publish this post on the blog. We only publish content that aligns with our magazine and brand.

Wedding inspiration comes in all styles and colors, but when it’s shot in the beautiful Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, you know it’s going to be lovely! Organic Love comes to us from a handful of local creatives (see below for list). The use of natural materials and lush soft florals made for some pretty inspirational photos.

Winter is still here but we thought we’d kick our fave seasons off right by releasing the Spring Summer 2018 issue of Blush Magazine – on sale today and to be stocked on newsstands by the end of January.  Our gorgeous cover features a bouquet designed by Flower Artistry and shot by Genevieve Renee Photographie, both based in Calgary, AB. The cover and editorial was meticulously planned and coordinated by Social + Co, a boutique event and design company also based in Calgary.

As usual this issue, we’ve featured and chatted with 11 couples who have all recently tied the know. We’ve shown you their gowns, bouquets, cakes and invitations so you can gather inspiration for your own day, but we’ve also asked them for their advice as someone who’ve just come out the other side of this whole wedding planning process.

You’ll find Blush Magazine stocked at Chapters and Indigo throughout Alberta and B.C. in two short weeks. In the meantime, you can purchase a copy online.

When you’re planning a wedding, there’s a lot to think about so it’s easy to forget about your skin. Some skin issues can be covered with makeup but if there is something you’d like fixed or prevented we recommend you seek the expertise of a professional.  Dr. Olesen of Hemingway Medical Spa answers our top 7 skin care and treatment questions.

How early should a bride start on skin treatments before her wedding?

Ideally, 6-9 months. The skin life cycle is about 6 weeks, and these treatments take time. Various treatments require a series of sessions to achieve desired results. For instance, it can take 9 – 12 months to eradicate acne; but typically only 3-6 months for skin resurfacing and brightening. There are last minute options to help promote a healthy glow, but they are less long-term in effect, such as the red-carpet stimulator peel which can be done the week before the wedding.

What kind of treatment fixes color/pigment issues?

Intense pulse light therapy (IPL) with the Cynosure Palomar Icon laser lightens skin pigment (age spots, sun damage, freckles), lessens redness and stimulates collagen with noticeable results after one treatment, and usually ideal results after 3 treatments (each 4 weeks apart). This is the best treatment for improving an overall healthy skin tone and glow.

What kind of treatment fixes acne issues?

Acne should be treated medically, which is offered at Hemingway Medical Spa; however, there are services which can accelerate the resolution of break-outs and inflammatory acne. The Jessner treatment is like a chemical peel, but is superficial and targeted at acne.

What do you suggest for brides who want a sun kissed glow?

My personal favourite is the Mystic spray tan from Fabutan; it’s my go-to before heading on a tropical vacation.

How often should a bride and groom get facials?

Depending on the needs, it is recommended to use a quality and personalized daily skin care regimen. However, the microneedling service that we offer is comparable, if not higher yield, than your typical facial. We recommend microneedling 6 weeks before the wedding, and then again 1-2 weeks before, for optimal skin health before the big day.

How much should a bride budget for her skin the year leading up to her wedding?

It really depends on each individual’s skin health needs. Given we have a variety of services, we can customize a treatment plan with your budget in consideration. It could range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars for the year.

What is a good maintenance routine after the wedding?

A customized and effective daily skin care routine with products and services that are specific to each individual.