When it comes to weddings, we wish that compiling the mailing list was our highest priority (or at least the future mother-in-law does), but lets be honest, it’s really all about the dress. 

Just in time for spring fever (and summer engagements), Vancouver designer Jason Matlo has launched a line of fashion-forward gowns. From ballerina ball skirts to sleek-and-slinky jersey, retro details like asymmetrical necklines, Grecian draping, and tons of tulle define these hand-finished couture creations.

Now, back to that mailing list….

www.jasonmatlo.com

To see more dresses, view photos on the Editors' Diary.

If our Facebook news feed over the holidays was any indication, it’s going to be a banner year for summer weddings. For those soon to be betrothed, we have a few recommendations to help plan the big day.

Photos
James Moes is a young shutterbug with talent in spades. Not restricted to one style, we’ve seen him produce both modern and retro shots from the same shoot, and the stealthy way he captures the after party is unparalleled. www.holyholymatrimony.com

Rings
If your “something old” happens to be an heirloom ring handed down to you that just doesn’t suit your style, consider having Jessie Turner modernize it. She’ll take your old jewels and melt down bygone gold to craft a new ring you love. www.jessieturner.ca

Flowers
The new Get Fresh Flowers shop on Davie Street may be small, but packs a powerful punch with beautiful bouquets and vases. Bring in your ideas and they’ll work with you to create something fragrant and fashionable. www.getfreshflowers.ca

Dessert
Have your cake look good and eat it too with The Uncommon Cake. Or get creative and give guests custom-made cookies instead. Whether you’re going for elegant or whimsical, baker and decorator Jill Shumka is a whiz with confections. www.theuncommoncake.com

For more wedding “shop talk” head to the Forum.

Can’t shake the reoccurring nightmare of walking down the aisle in an 80s pouffy sleeve disaster?

Ease your white-dress anxiety (and skip time-wasting trips to tacky bridal shops) at Wed, where you’ll find a well-edited designer collection in a pretty space with powder blue walls and chocolate wood floors.

Book a large private room (complete with chaise lounge and screened-off change area) where you can slip into different styles as your bridal entourage ooohs-and-aaaaahs over your sweatheart strapless A-line.

Each dress (ranging from $2,700-$4,500) is prettier than the next, and with designers like Palazzo, Modern Trousseau, Liancarlo and Canadian line Renella De Fina, you may be hard-pressed to pick just one style.

But isn’t that what second marriages are for? Kidding!

Wed Bridal, 3882 Main St., Vancouver, 604-875-1554, www.wedbridal.com