Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, to say at the least! When the list of details seems to be never ending (and always spending) it's easy to get a little lost. With so many options for your wedding style, and your desire for it to be a reflection of you and your love, where do you begin?

Shop Local Canada is a incredible resource for all local, Canadian brands, events, and inspiration. If you are looking for businesses local to your city, or you just love to support the talent in your country, Shop Local Canada has a comprehensive directory of the best! 

Shop Local Canada has put together a list of five amazing Canadian businesses that you can look to for your wedding day style inspiration, or to possibly even help you in the planning!

From selecting your wedding colours and florals, to jewelry (that's where Apostle comes in!), to stationary, beauty products and guest favors, this list covers those essentials! 

Click on the image below to see the list of five Canadian businesses that can help you with making your wedding day true to you and your significant other! 

And remember, whether you are local to Calgary or not, Apostle is always here to work one-on-one with you to complete your wedding look! Styling you, your tribe, or your pretty flower girls, we can find the perfect pieces, or create custom jewelry that is unique to you! 

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It's one thing to talk about all the pretty jewelry that I love and to make sure that I am bringing in new jewelry styles to the boutique, but it's different when other people are also loving the jewelry at Apostle and they want to share it with their friends! 

Calgary-based wedding designer and coordinator Jacqueline Rae has included some of her favorite Apostle jewelry pieces in her first Currently Coveting blog post (insert little skip in my step here). 

Alongside the pretty jewelry pieces, you'll also find some great home décor, fashion, what's inspiring & motivating her, as well as her favorite beauty products. A little something for everyone- what's not to love about all of that?! My favorite thing about Jacqueline's Currently Coveting list is that the items she's selected are so versatile and can easily work with anyone's unique personal style. Also, Jacqueline doesn't just list her favorite things, but she also gives some great tips for styling and how to incorporate these pieces into your everyday life.

The Currently Coveting article by Jacqueline Rae is a quick, easy and fun read that you don't want to miss! I made it really easy- just click on the image below and you'll get directed right to the post! 

Thank you so much Jacqueline for including Apostle jewelry in your post! It's so great to work with you in person, and now online as well!  

xo

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This is Story 6 of the Real Style Project. To learn more about the Real Style Project and what it's all about, click here. 

Genuine. Candid. Persevering. Engaging.

These are some of the characteristics
that truly define Lisa Maric,
and this is her Style Story.

I first met Lisa two years ago shortly after the opening of Distilled Beauty Bar & Coffee House. Lisa always wanted to open a coffee shop, and she came up with the unique concept to combine coffee, aesthetics and a salon all under one roof, creating an inviting atmosphere for both men and women of all ages. And if you think about it, it isn't an easy task to create a space that appeals to everyone- whether you are wanting to grab a coffee (or something stronger) and get some work done, meet with friends for lunch, or enjoy a relaxing spa treatment...Lisa was able to put it all together in a warm, comfortable & distinctive environment.   

While I love spending time at Distilled to grab a coffee, do a Saturday Pop Up Boutique, meet clients for some one-on-one shopping, or to get a manicure, this story isn't about me or about Distilled. It's about Lisa, the incredible and inspiring woman behind it all. 

Growing up wasn't a smoothly paved road for Lisa. She learned that she needed to make things happen for herself, fight for what she deserved and for what she believed in, and that life doesn't just give you handouts. Because of circumstance, Lisa had to manage responsibility, self-reliance and perseverance before most people in high school even think about getting a job. But this doesn't mean that she is hard, callous or hostile. On the contrary, Lisa is loyal, fierce, and sympathetic.

No stranger to the valleys of tough times, bad news, and heartbreak, Lisa fights her way back to the mountain tops and strives to live a life of love, laughter and connection. Lisa loves her work and I dare say that she's the hardest worker you'll find. She may own her business, but she doesn't take the role lightly. She busts her butt making coffees, cleaning tables, filling water cups, taking out the garbage, making appointments...anything that needs to get done, she does without complaint. It's like changing your baby's diaper- it isn't pretty, it's not something you love to do, but it's your baby and to keep your baby (and everyone around her) happy, thriving and moving forward, you do what needs to be done. And Lisa is an amazing, multi-tasking "mom" and keeps the "baby" and everyone that comes in contact with it, incredibly happy (she also works alongside her two real life sons whom she has also done a great job in raising. And learning from their mom, these guys work their butts off too!).

One thing I notice about Lisa is that she is always connecting with people. She knows the importance of chatting with customers, but for Lisa, it is so much deeper than just simply "chatting with customers". These are friends, acquaintances, and loved ones, and believe me when I say that it only takes a few minutes before you feel like a friend. Lisa has a huge heart and will sit down to chat and makes you feel cared about and like you've been friends for years. Lisa is an open book and her sincerity and kindness draws you in. 

To me, Lisa is a friend and a mentor. The differences between us and our experiences are very different, but because of that, I love both her insight and her outlook on life, work, and the world around us. She has an open ear and an open heart, and is willing to welcome you in to her "home" if you can do the same for her.

As a part of the the Real Style Project, I asked Lisa a number of questions so that we can learn more about who she is.

What is style to you?

Style to me is what suits your personality... I love comfortable fabrics, simplicity in my palettes (I could wear black every day) and when I reach into my closet I want to be ready to go in 5 minutes. I love my life uncomplicated and that is where my sense of style comes from.

What was a major style mishap that you look back on and ask yourself "why"?

I grew up in the eighties and early nineties, so suffice it to say there are enough style mishaps that it is hard to identify just one. But, I suppose if I could single out one memorable mishap it would be cutting all my hair off and dying what little of it was left, and eclectic orange blonde shade. Not my best look, but fortunately there was no social media back then to record the epic event! 

After a stressful day, what do you do to relax?

I love dogs and I find their company and free-loving ways inspirational- we can learn a lot from them! One of my passions is rescue dogs, they remind me of my place and purpose on this planet. I am not here to sweat the small stuff, and kindness & real compassion can drain stress from your day-to-day life...try it!

*Since this interview was conducted, Lisa lost her closest companion, King. He was her shadow and a source of love, comfort and happiness. His life made a huge impact on Lisa, and his absence leaves a void, but all of the great memories of him will always be held tightly in Lisa's heart.

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give 20-year old you?

The simple answer is "Damn girl, put some sunblock on that face!" And then I would tell myself that education matters and don't waste your time with unkind people or bad wine. 

What are 3 events/people/issues that have helped shape you?

My Dad was the first person to tell me that I could be anything, and he repeated it often and loudly, and that has stuck with me! Having had my children taught me how to love completely, honestly and without any reservations. Lastly, everyone needs a true measure of themselves, and I have been lucky enough to have a husband who loves me even when I don't deserve it, he forces me to examine myself and there is no better mirror than honesty. 

What are some items that you always wear?

Earrings are my jam, and my most favorite are from Apostle's In House Collection. Their Unity Earrings make me feel pretty and give me a touch of glam. I never leave the house with my engagement ring...I literally feel naked without it! And there isn't an outfit in my closet that doesn't go with my silver-grey Converse sneakers. 

As you just read, Lisa already owns some Apostle pieces, so I didn't need to ask her what styles of jewelry she loves. Here are some Apostle items that Lisa already owns and incorporates in to her daily style. 

Apostle In House, Unity Earrings 

Cluse La Boheme Watch

While not worn for the shoot, these are a couple other items from Apostle that Lisa has incorporated into her collection.
Leah Alexandra Opal Ring & Apostle In House Collection, Reign Necklace

Lisa Maric is hard-working in both her business and personal life, ensuring that she takes care of herself, her relationships, and those she cares about.

You won't meet anyone who believes in love & kindness more than Lisa does. That said though, she isn't one to back down when either herself, or those around her, are being treated poorly. Lisa is a loyal friend, a loving mother & wife, and definitely someone you want in your corner! 

All photography for Lisa's Style Story was done by Sarah Beau Photography

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This is Story 5 of the Real Style Project. To learn more about the Real Style Project and what it's all about, click here.

Selfless, aspiring, endearing and ingenious.
These are just a few words that friends
use to describe Tanya Puka,
and this is her Style Story.

There's no question that Tanya is a woman of style. And yes, it's definitely possible that you could see her in any fashion magazine for her seamless combination of classic & eclectic pieces, but more than that, Tanya Puka's style is all her own, and that comes from her openness to try new things, a confidence in who she is & what she loves, and a thoughtfulness in what she buys. 

As always, I did a bit of an interview with Tanya, which you can read below, but I reached out to one of Tanya's closest friends, Lana Rogers, to help give us a bigger and deeper look in to who Tanya is. Lana gave such incredible insight and I have used some of her knowledge to tell a more well-rounded story, and I have used some of her direct quotes about Tanya throughout.

If you were to see Tanya hanging out at her favorite cocktail bar, Proof, you'd no doubt notice what she is wearing, but you also can't miss the kindness in her eyes, her calm spirit, and the joy in her easy smile that is so often present.

Apart from all of this, Tanya has a wonderful mind for business and she has combined that intelligence with her eye for style and started a high-end consignment boutique called Fond Boutique. After a couple years, Tanya made the decision to join forces with Calgary luxury consignment shop, the upside. I initially met Tanya when she had Fond Boutique and I was bringing in some items to consign. Later on, I remember talking to her after she decided to combine forces with the upside, and it was amazing how she made such a big move with such a strong inner peace. Having my own company, I can only imagine how much thought would have gone into making that change, and she did so with excitement and faith in the fact that it just felt right. 

Whether Tanya is organizing weekly photoshoots to showcase the amazing inventory at the upside, styling clients, working on projects at her other career in marketing at Brandsmith, or spending time with loved ones, Lana described Tanya beautifully - "Tanya gives 100% of herself all of the time. She genuinely cares about the success and well-being of others... whether it's styling advice or life advice, Tanya is always there to make someone's day that much brighter."

While being intentional about taking time to unwind isn't first nature to Tanya, she loves to de-stress by socializing with friends and loved ones (and it isn't uncommon to do so over a glass of wine), or she likes to hunker down at home with her man and watch a good drama or intellectual thriller, or cozies up to read a great book (usually anything Harvard Business Review).

To get an even better sense of who Tanya is, I did a short interview with her : 

Your style in 3 words. 

Classic, tomboyish, with a touch of boho.

What are some items that you seem to always wear?

I'm typically feeling a worn-in pair of vintage jeans, high tops, pop-pom earrings or studs (never without earrings) and a good kimono. Perhaps not all together! 

When shopping, are there certain style, colours, accents, etc, that you look for?

I try to trust my instincts rather than search for anything specific. If I feel good in something, I like to think that it's meant to be. Typically, if I can't create at least 5 outfits in my mind, I won't buy it. Also, good tailoring is key.

What is style to you?

I think style is about feeling more yourself in the clothes you're in, as if they are an extension of your narrative. They best styles look lived in - it's imperfect in just the right way. 

What drives or motivates you?

Passion and connection. I feel so lucky to have a versatile career I'm passionate about and that provides the ability to connect with many different people in the day-to-day, as well as invest in the meaningful relationships in my life. When I have a balance of both, I have it all. 

What are 3 events or people that have helped shape you?

I would have to say my twin sis, who taught me strength and confidence without having to speak a word; living in a van for 6 months with two pals, which taught me patience and sparked my sense of adventure; and for becoming my own boss, which continues to teach me that I can handle (nearly almost) anything. 

What was a major style mishap that you look back on and ask yourself "why??"

Oh so many! Skate shoes, knee-high stockings, black lace slips as skirts...what I refer to as my goth days, may they RIP.

There's always a lot of bad & negative issues in the news. Tell me one good or positive thing that you see in our world.

To keep it short and sweet - people are exquisite creatures capable of so much dark and so much light. It's the light that keeps us going. To see good in people is what is inspiring and positive to me. 

Tanya is no stranger to accessorizing and while she's initially drawn to silver jewelry, she doesn't shy away from gold, or even mixing the two together. When trying on the delicate stacking ring set and said she'd wear them on her thumb...I knew that she was a girl after my own heart! Tanya also loves a bold earring, but there is something about a pretty, classic stud that draws her in! All of this just goes to show that Tanya doesn't limit herself to specific styles, but she truly goes with what she loves and makes sure that it'll work with more than just one outfit.

Leah Alexandra Channel Bar Studs

Taylor Kenney Double Circle Necklace & Leah Alexandra Astro Necklace 

 
Gorjana Stacking Rings & Cluse La Boheme Watch

While there are a number of things that I've taken away from getting to know Tanya better, here are a few that stand out to me:

- Be purposeful & thoughtful in the pieces you buy. If you can't think of more than a couple different outfits you'd wear it with, leave it behind. 

- Kindness and light are more than the words we say and the things we do, it's revealed in all that we are.

- Change is good. Even when you don't have the answers or know how it'll go, you have to trust your gut and do what feels right.

You now know that Tanya Puka is not only a great
business woman, an incredible & loyal friend,
and a lover of people & relationships,
but she is also kind, generous and soulful.
All of this is wrapped into incredible woman that loves
the simple things in life (and a well-made
drink at her favorite local spot).

All photography for Tanya's Style Story was done by Sarah Beau Photography

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Here is a woman that is effervescent,
exudes self-confidence, and is not only
outgoing, but hilarious to boot!
This is Kristin Hallett. 

But Kristin is so much more than that. I had a bit of a girl-crush on Kristin before I had even met her because I love how she is unapologetically herself. From saving baby Robins in her yard, to then saving them from being trapped in her house, to her writing (she wrote Bee Love, a touching & inspiring children's book, as well as co-authored You've Got This Mama), raising her adorable daughter, her work in raising awareness & funds for ALS research, managing a work/wife/mom/friend/self life...and SO much more! 

Born in Stettler, AB, Kristin moved to Calgary when she was four years old and has called Calgary home ever since. Playing hockey for over 10 years, including a full hockey scholarship to Minnesota State University, Kristin loves the game and worked for the Calgary Flames as a producer and host of Flames TV where she interviewed and connected with the players. 

Through her work you can tell that Kristin is creative, but she also has a deep passion for connection, and you'll read about that below in the interview questions, but it is apparent that this is a common thread throughout everything that Kristin does, both in her professional and personal life. 

As I mentioned, Kristin wrote her first book called Bee Love. Bee Love is heart-warming and soul-touching, and I honestly get choked up every time I read it to my kids. In the book, Little Bee is sharing about all of his aspirations with his Mama. Listening intently, Mama Bee encourages the little one to dream and aim high, but in the end she shares her wisdom and the important life lesson of what really matters most- "It is love Little Bee, that makes you shine bright. Love is what makes the whole world work right." 

When Kristin was pregnant with her son, the Bee Love story came to her in a dream, and when she woke up she wrote it all down and left it at that. Shortly after, Kristin lost her son as he "returned to the stars" and she found the story notes once again in her phone. Knowing that this was a gift from her son, she decided to share it with the world, and we are so lucky because it truly is a special and beautiful story. 

While Kristin is no stranger to heart-ache, she is also no stranger to joy and to living a full life. Through humour, openness and grace, Kristin has a way of connecting with those around her. Whether she is face to face, or through social media, you can't help but be drawn in. She is a fighter, a lover and has a drive that can't be matched. You can't help but love her, and be inspired by what she has done and by what she plans to do. 

To get an even better sense of who Kristin is, I'd love for you to read the interview that I did with her. 

How would you describe your style?

Simple. Less is more. Staple items for days. No, really - for days! Like, I wear the same thing until it MUST be washed. 

What are some items that you seem to always wear?

Always, always have a black leather jacket. I throw it on over workout gear and look pulled together! Also, clean white chucks are always on hand.

When shopping, are there certain styles, colours, accents, etc, that you look for?

All the black! Also, I'm not a label whore, by any means, but I cannot layoff Citizen Jeans. Cost-per-wear, they are worth every penny! 

What is style to you?

Style is personal, to each and every one of us, and I truly feel "if you feel good, sexy, confident, happy, comfortable - whatever is most important to you! - you've nailed it!"

What makes you unique?

Nothing makes me unique. I laugh. I cry. I make all the mistakes. I give my husband shit for texting while we're on a date, and then turn around and text myself. I'm human. Mostly, I am desperately in love with connecting to people who spark something in me.

What do you love about yourself?

I love my silly side. I love that it still lives within me (even when bills, stress and sleep deprivation try to squash it). Sometimes, at the end of the day, you need to do something silly to crack yourself up. Like straight-up, dead pan seduce your husband with ALL the zit cream and granny-panties until you're both cry laughing. 

Personal Manta:

You win some, you learn some. And, let it lighten your load or strengthen your back.

What drives or motivates you?

I am painfully introspective. I will think on something for months. Roll it around in my head. But these thoughts do eventually become something. They are my driving force. 

What was a major style mishap that you look back on and ask yourself "Why?!?"

Sperm eyebrows. Like, when is it ever a good idea to pluck ones eyebrows into the shape of a sperm? That's right, never.

When I knew that I wanted Kristin to be a part of the Real Style Project, I knew that she doesn't change her jewelry much. Like so many of us, she said that when she finds something she loves, it's all she wears. 

That said, I felt like Kristin is sentimental and loves things with meaning. And I love making custom pieces that are specific and unique to the wearer, and so I wanted to put something together that was true to both Kristin's style and her story. 

Wanting to incorporate the Bee Love story (and by that I mean her story behind the storybook), I searched for a bee charm that wasn't cheesy or juvenile, and I found one that looked like a vintage coin or talisman and it was perfect! I also added a gold plated bar to symbolize strength, and a small pyrite gemstone charm that represents protection, abundance and prosperity. Also keeping in mind that Kristin has a laid-back casual style, I didn't want to over-style the necklace so that it wouldn't fit in with her daily wardrobe and lifestyle. 

I believe that everything we do in life contributes to our story. You are not wholly made up by what your career is, your daily activities, or by what you think is your greatest achievements. Some of these things may take up large chunks in the timeline, or even play a crucial role in the shaping of who you are, but you are so much more than that.

And just like that, Kristin is not solely the books she's written, the university she went to, or the work she's done. While those are major contributors, she also loves hiking, spending time with friends, she's an avid reader, and loves getting down on the floor to play with her daughter. She's an everyday, extraordinary woman with big dreams, high hopes, and a style that is all her own!

Photography for Kristin's story was done by Sarah Beau Photography

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Selecting the right photographer is more than just "skin deep".

The Real Style Project is about women that are living out
their story in their own unique and beautiful way.
It's using your strengths, talents and inner-power
to create a beautiful world for yourself, your family,
and everyone around you.

In this same way, a photographer uses their talents to capture moments in their own unique style. The way they move when taking photos, the way they interact with their subjects (whether it's people, animals, nature, or objects), and the way they edit, is all how they put their trademark into our lives, and the world.

But just like all of us, they are not defined solely by their work!

When I contact a photographer about working with me on a project (or any shoot), it's because I've been following them on social media for awhile and I love what they are putting out in the world. From the style of their photos, to what they write in their captions, to how they are in their videos and through email. I love to work with women that are not only professional, but genuine, kind, and are inspired by working with other women. Of course the style of the photographer is important, but the number of followers or years in business is not. Those are just numbers, and I don't put value on numbers. I see value in the individual and in who they are. 

With this in mind, here are the amazing photographers that I have had the pleasure of getting to know and to work with on the Real Style Project. 

THANK YOU to each of you for being a part of this. While it seems as though the Project is about the women you photograph, it is equally about you as well. Because through your photography, you are sharing a part of your Style Story with us, and I am so thankful to you for opening up a piece of your time, your heart, and your passion to this!

To learn more about each photographer and to see their work, click on their logo or image and you'll get right to their website! 

I asked Jenny from Gingersnap Photography to be a part of the Real Style Project because she is a huge believer in all women feeling beautiful, strong and confident. Her portfolio includes not only weddings and lifestyle, but boudoir as well, and it is through her boudoir photography that she helps women feel comfortable, self-assured, and sexy, just as they are (because there's not much to hide behind!). 

I've had the pleasure of working with Jenny on a number of different styled shoots, so I had a good sense of who she is and what she's like to work with. Plus, we live quite close to one another, so we were able to drive together to the shoots for this project, and it really helped me get to know her better. 

Jenny is kind, gentle and caring, and her story in itself is amazing. She's a loving mom that would do anything for her son (who just so happens to be a guitar prodigy), she loves her husband dearly, is passionate about her work, takes on any challenge that life may throw at her with with courage and grace, and she's fun to be around. Working on there first stories of the Project with Jenny has been an incredible journey! 

I was initially drawn to the bright, fresh and airy feel of Sarah Beau Photography. If you check out her Instagram profile or her website, you'll see exactly what I'm talking about! Everything is just so pretty - and I am definitely a fan of pretty things!!

What you'll notice about Sarah is that she is open and honest about everything- from talking about a run of events in a day like getting in a car accident, flashing strangers (accidentally) and having 11 firetrucks show up at her condo after calling about a smoke smell, to the adventures while location scouting, to fun times with her beloved dog, Jinx. One thing you can't miss is the love and attention she gives to her clients. She gets invested in their story, and ensures she gives them her very best.

On set, Sarah is great to work with! She's always early (!!), is very detail oriented, gives direction in a kind but confident manner, and she is obviously well trained and loves to tell a story through her work. 

Melanie is the creative mind behind Grey Lily Photography. Creating beautiful imagery for weddings, couples, lifestyle & family, as well as business branding, Melanie's skill-set is multi-faceted and she excels at it all! 

I have known Melanie for years, before she decided to leave her full-time job as a hairstylist to pursue her passion in photography. Back then I only knew who Melanie was- a sweet, tender-hearted and genuine woman that people seemed to gravitate towards. Fast forward about five years and Melanie and I reconnected through out businesses and I got to know her a lot better. 

Grey Lily Photography has now helped me with branding photos, family, product shots, and we have worked on a number of photoshoots together as well. I love how Melanie's style evokes a certain moodiness about it through the way she captures movement, colour and shadow. 

Apart from Melanie's impeccable eye and ability to capture the perfect shot, she is a champion for mental health, women in business, and she is a loyal friend. You won't find anyone that is more honest about her life- her passions, struggles and dreams, and through that I am inspired to do the same. 

When Melanie said that she wanted to be a part of the Real Style Project, I jumped at the chance to work with her again! After our first shoot for the RSP, I mentioned how I don't ever want to tell women what to wear, instead I try to let them find pieces they love. From that, Melanie talked about how she (and some women) don't always know what to wear or how to wear it, so instead they just throw something on because it is familiar and not necessarily because they love it or think it looks good. She said that doesn't mean that they don't like jewelry, or certain clothing styles, or that they don't want to wear it, they just don't know how. Melanie went on to say that with a little help to find those pieces that suit them, they love the way it looks and how it makes them feel and it quickly becomes a part of their style.

That conversation with Melanie was very eye-opening to me, and it really reaffirmed why I do what I do... and I don't even think she realizes it. :)  But that's just Melanie! She is encouraging, inspiring and innovative, without even trying. 

When picking a photographer, it's important to me to look at more than their portfolio, but to also look at who they are and what is important to them. After all, they aren't only taking photos, but by working together and investing time in one another, we are forever intertwined into one another's stories. And that's a beautiful thing!   

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