TOP WEDDING VENDORS WE RECOMMEND FOR YOUR DREAM WEDDING

Discover the top wedding vendors recommended by Twist Gallery for a dream wedding. From planners to entertainers, ensure an unforgettable celebration with our expert picks.

Planning a wedding can be both  exciting and overwhelming. At Twist Gallery, we understand the importance of finding the right vendors to make your special day unforgettable. To help you navigate this exciting journey, we’ve compiled a list of our top wedding vendors who consistently deliver exceptional services. Whether you’re looking for photographers, florists, or caterers, these professionals will ensure your wedding is as perfect as you’ve always dreamed.

Top Wedding Vendors We Recommend For Your Big Day

WEDDING PLANNERS

A Great Wedding Planner is your guide to seamless celebrations. They handle all the details, manage the timeline and coordinate with vendors, ensuring your vision comes to life without a hitch. Our favourites include:

Poppin Petals
info@poppinpetals.ca
www.poppinpetals.ca
@poppin_petals

Vivid & Vogue
vividandvogueevents@gmail.com
www.vividandvogue.com
@vividandvogue

Florists

Flowers play a big role in your wedding by enhancing the beauty of your day. Here are our top picks for florists who can bring your floral dreams to life.

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Bloomberry & Co.

(416) 282-FLWR

hello@bloomberryandco.com
www.bloomberryandco.com
@bloomberry.and.co

Make Lemonade

hello@makelemonade.ca
www.makelemonade.ca
@makelemonadeco

OFFICIANT

The officiant plays a pivotal role in your ceremony. Hire someone who resonates with your values and can customize the service to reflect your unique love story. Our recommendations are;

Ceremonies with Choices
martin@ceremonieswithchoice.ca
www.ceremonieswithchoice.ca

The marrying Lady
https://www.sheisthemarryinglady.com/
tade@sheisthemarryinglady.com
@themarryinglady

PHOTOGRAPHERs

Capturing the magic of your wedding day is essential, and a talented photographer can do just that! Some of our Favourites are

GAETZ Photography
www.gaetzphotography.com
@gaetzphoto

Mango Studios
www.mangostudios.com
@mangostudios

ENTERTAINMENT

Great entertainment keeps your guests engaged and the energy high. Whether you opt for a live band, DJ, or any Live painter artist, ensure it aligns with the vibe you want for your celebration. The best people to add to your event are;

DJ Floh Back
www.flohback.com
@djflohback

The Maximum Music Team
www.maximumdj.com
rod@maximumdj.com

Natasha Dichpan Art
www.natashadee.net
@natashaliveart

PhotoboothTO
https://photoboothto.com/
@photoboothto

HAIR, MAKEUP & Wedding attire

Professional hair and makeup artists help you look your best on your big day.  Make sure you book the best ones.

All Dolled Up Makeup & Hair- Danielle West
www.alldolledupstudio.ca

Artistry by Jas- Jasmine Kaur
www.artistrybyjas.com

Finding the perfect attire is key to feeling your best on your wedding day. Here are our top recommendations for bridal and groom attire:

Becker’s Bridal & Formal Inc.
www.beckersbridaltoronto.com

Camellia Wedding Gowns
www.camelliaweddinggown.com

wedding cake

A wedding cake is not only a centerpiece but also a sweet delight for your guests. Here are our top picks for wedding cake vendors:

Crumb & Berry
@crumbandberry
Bobbette & Belle
@bobbetteandbelle

Choosing the right vendors is crucial for a successful wedding and we hope our recommendations help you in your planning process. At Twist Gallery, we are here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring your wedding day is magical.

Twist Gallery offers a unique and artistic setting perfect for couples looking for a sophisticated and rustic modern space. Contact us today to discuss your dream wedding venue in Toronto!

For more information or consultation at Twist Gallery, visit www.twistgallery.ca or call us at  (416) 588-2222
We look forward to helping you create an unforgettable wedding experience!

FAQs

What should I consider when choosing a wedding planner?
Look for a planner with experience, a portfolio that matches your style, and positive reviews. They should be organized, communicative, and able to handle any issues that arise.

How do I choose the perfect venue?
Consider your guest list size, budget, and wedding theme. Visit venues to get a feel for the space, and ensure it offers the amenities you need.

Why is having both a videographer and a photographer important?
A photographer captures still moments, while a videographer records motion and sound. Together, they provide a complete record of your wedding day.

How can I ensure my wedding stationery stands out?
Work with a designer to create personalized, cohesive stationery that matches your wedding theme. High-quality materials and unique designs make a lasting impression.

What should I look for in a wedding caterer?
Choose a caterer who offers a diverse menu, accommodates dietary restrictions, and provides excellent service. Tasting sessions can help you make your decision.

How I Take Care of Myself During Wedding Season

The wedding season is stressful for everyone, but how do you stay in tip-top shape? This article will outline some practical ways to take care of yourself during the wedding season. Do these things, and you'll be on the road to wedding perfection!

Working Out with a Personal Trainer

Working out with a personal trainer during the wedding season is an excellent idea if you are a future bride. Getting fit can be difficult when you are busy with your wedding preparations. However, it is not impossible, as personal trainers can help you shed unwanted pounds and get in shape quickly. In fact, many trainers offer special packages for newlyweds. You can choose a package that incorporates phone calls and in-person sessions, keeping your costs within your budget.

Avoiding Processed Foods

Improving digestion is a major health benefit of avoiding processed foods during the wedding season. Processed foods are packed with sugars and additives that can upset your digestive system and adversely affect your skin's complexion—something you absolutely want to avoid when it comes to wedding photos and videos.

Sugar is a commonly-used ingredient in most processed foods, and it can cause bloating and gas. Instead, choose a more natural sweetener, such as honey, that contains only natural sugars. You can find these sweeteners in natural or organic foods and get a sugar fix from eating natural fruits.

Taking a Nap

While some brides wake up at 4 am to start their hair and makeup, others don't have the luxury of sleeping in until the afternoon. A lack of sleep can drastically affect your physical and emotional state, making it imperative to schedule a nap before the wedding. Taking a nap is the perfect way to rest and rejuvenate after a long day of wedding preparation. Make sure that no one disturbs you while you nap, and delegate the rest of your tasks to trusted assistants or wedding planners.

Avoiding Tanning Booths

There are a few ways to avoid getting too dark at tanning booths, especially during the wedding season. First, book your last appointment at least two days before your wedding. This will allow you time to correct mistakes before the big day and protect your wedding dress from stains.

Fresh spray tans tend to rub off more easily on fabric, so ensure you avoid moisture for eight hours after your appointment. Then, moisturize your body with hydrating lotion.

Taking a Vacation

If you're considering taking a vacation during the wedding season, consider the pros and cons of this season. As the wedding season approaches, prices on airfare and accommodations tend to go up. You'll also want to plan your vacation well in advance to coordinate your plans with friends and family. Luckily, several ways to get the best deal include shopping during holiday sales and signing up for resort newsletters.

One of the Most Unique Toronto Wedding Venues

Twist Gallery is a well-known art gallery but also serves as an event space Toronto relies on for custom celebrations, including birthday parties, weddings and receptions, and corporate events. Get in touch today at (416) 588-2222 or nadia@twistgallery.ca for more information!

Interviewing Our 8 Vibrance Artists

Twist Gallery is very excited to showcase our new exhibit Vibrance, and give you a chance to get to know the 8 talented artists on a deeper level to better understand their artistic process. Vibrance is centred around life’s moments, both in the mundane and the exciting, encouraging our intertwined connectivity of the human experience. We asked our artists some questions about the ‘vibrancy’ of their work. To find out more, keep reading!

Amanda Pistillo

Amanda is a self-taught artist whose work is centred around the feeling of joy, the tranquility of being happy, and extending that to others. She hopes to entice a feeling of inspiration and motivation in others to create their own unique art work. 

• How does the title ‘Vibrance’ connect to you and your art?

"Vibrance" to me and in terms of my art is about the light that radiates within your heart and soul. It is that powerful energy that brings forth happiness and love! Each piece that I create is a one-of-a-kind creation always made with lots of love and with the hope that they bring happiness to others! 

• All of your paintings are centred around John Lennon. What aspects of his life inspired your work? 

John Lennon's empowering mission for a world with peace and love coupled with his never-ending call for inner courage and strength are very inspirational to me. I wanted to try and capture the light and radiance of his heart and soul within my artwork.

• How have you cultivated such a unique style of painting?

I love to create art, it helps to centre me and brings me so much peace. Over time I have learned to exercise a sense of courage when creating my art, just being totally free. I enjoy using a rainbow of colours within my work, along with an edgy/sweet kind of look. I never have an exact plan of how the piece will turn out, I just go with the flow and try to be fearless. I've found that the best process for me when I'm creating my art is to just listen to my heart and let go of any control.

• Do you have any advice for beginner artists who are nervous to explore new mediums and areas of art?

I think it's really important to be yourself and to have a sense of fearlessness when creating your art. There are going to be people who will have opinions about what you have created and want to change your style of art, but always remember how unique you are and to never conform to other people's expectations. Always believe in your art and in who you are. Your art is a reflection of you, and all of your divine creativity and your beautiful soul! Always remember to keep persevering, try new techniques, and always always stay true to yourself!

Daniella Williams

Daniella is keen on expression, keen on capturing the moments that truly make us human. Whether it be alone, with a partner, in a public setting with strangers… she makes sure to grasp deep emotion in a way that makes the viewer feel comfortable and understanding. Daniella focuses on all of the little details that are incredibly important in the final composition of her piece, and will make sure to capture every angle and shadow. 

• How does the title ‘Vibrance’ connect to you and your art? 

I wanted to be a part of Vibrance because I felt that the concept and title of the show was one that reflected the overall essence of my work. My paintings emphasize colour and dynamic imagery of people in mundane scenes. Therefore, when I begin a painting my end vision is a scene where I have pushed the colours and skin tones of the subjects in unexpected ways. I want my paintings to be vibrant and energetic as well as probe the viewer to ask questions about the narratives I develop.

• Why have you explored the themes of intimacy, self-reflection and voyeurism with your Domesticity collection?

My work touches on themes of intimacy, self-reflection and voyeurism because I’ve always been concerned with the idea of being perceived. I want to explore the tension and discomfort that exists in this as an individual but then paint it in a way that feels intimate to the viewer. As curious humans we love to get a look into the psyche and inner experiences of people around us; hence our fixation on social media and consuming images. Similarly, I have struggled with my own body image, and self-perception as a young bi-racial woman in an age of internet and image consumption, so it's always felt important to create paintings about these ideas.

• What is the narrative behind the Domesticity paintings?

The Domesticity series paintings are meant to follow the domestic lives of four young adults who share a home. Their relationship to one another is ambiguous and highlighted by their inherent separateness in each scene. The setting of each painting is clearly a home yet none of the inhabitants ever meet the others gaze or interact. Domesticity was meant to be a look inside a troubled home life, one that looks bright and beautiful at first glance but harbours tension and restlessness at a second glance.

• How do you choose your muse for your paintings? (Are they friends of yours? Models? Strangers?)

The subjects of my paintings really depend on where I am and what I’m feeling inspired by at the time. A lot of my most recent pieces were of friends who I had sit and act out different scenarios and narratives for me. Whereas many of my other paintings are of strangers I capture in passing. For instance, my newest painting “In A Sea Full of Women’ was a collage of several people I observed on different beaches in Italy and Greece. Mainly what I look for in my subject is a sense of mundanity, I want them to look like everyday people and to tell some kind of story in their expressions or body language.

Sandra Lambert

Sandra has a spirit that can be seen directly through her paintings. She focuses on the things that make her happy and takes inspiration from the little parts of life that may be overlooked otherwise. High saturation and crisp lines in her art convey an intense wave of emotion and expression. 

• How does the title ‘Vibrance’ connect to you and your art? 

My first love in painting is colour. I’ve always been attracted to fresh, bright colours - colours that remind me of summer gardens or brightly coloured insects and birds. Loving the colours in nature, I’ve wanted to capture that feeling of freshness and aliveness without limiting myself to representation. So, it’s more of a desire to express the essence of an experience of nature - fields, sunset, fruit, flowers, insects, birds - the vitality that, at our core, we share with the natural world.

• What attracted you to painting utilizing such rich saturated hues?

When I discovered acrylic gouaches- especially the Japanese colours- I fell in love with them. I rarely mix them, instead using them straight from the tube. They convey the intensity of my emotions and my experience of being saturated with the beauty of the world around me - an intensity that is difficult to convey in words, other than poetry, but seems to come more easily in the language of paint.

• What would you say your biggest inspiration has been during your art journey?

I am like a sponge, soaking up visual stimuli- natural and urban landscapes and the work of other artists. I think it was John Berger who talked about the importance of receptivity in the act of painting. That resonates for me- what you take in then moves through you and into the paintings. It’s not that you don’t need to learn techniques and practice a hell of a lot, but I think it’s good to stay open and receptive to the world around you and the impulses of your own soul.

• What drives you to create? How does it impact your personal growth?

I don’t really know what drives me to paint, other than I’m not happy if I’m not making something. And there’s nothing like the feeling of being completely absorbed in making a piece of art; it’s that loss of self-consciousness, that sense of rightness, of doing what I’m supposed to be doing. Also I never get bored- there’s always a new idea and something new to learn and try, and you can never get complacent because you can never really capture what you set out to capture so it’s always in front of you like a breathtaking view that is never reached because it’s always just around the next bend in the road.

• How do you know when to stop, when do you really know when a piece is finished?

I used to overpaint more than I do now. I didn’t trust what I was doing and was trying too hard and worrying about the end product. I do that less now and trust more in the process. It helps to work on 2 or 3 pieces at a time so you don’t get hung up on getting one perfect. Maybe that is something I’m learning from painting- perfection is not where it’s at in art or in life- instead it’s trying, experimenting, failing sometimes and succeeding sometimes, but keeping on working with an open mind and a playful spirit. Also there are happy accidents - ‘mistakes’ that turn out to be wonderful surprises. I’m trying to keep that attitude in regards to other parts of my life - what we hope and expect often do not occur but sometimes what seems ‘wrong’ can turn out to be a gift.

Allen Ford

Allen, a man well versed in our society’s natural fast pace and how our minds can interpret the advertising all around us, excels in collage style art that encourages the viewer to expand their horizons across many places. He uses second-hand bright and colourful advertising materials to create a whole new piece of art, enticing a sense of unusual inspiration from many different things at once.

• How does the title ‘Vibrance’ connect to you and your art? 

Excellent question! I feel vibrancy in my art is found in creating new meaning with the posters. Originally all these posters have a clear meaning and intent.  Take the huge panel with the Andy Warhol poster from the AGO exhibit. Originally that poster had a very clear purpose. But rip it, tear it, and mash it up with other posters, and something new and unexpected is created with its own energy and meaning. To me that is vibrant.

• Your collages reinterpreted old advertising posters from across the city. How do you see advertisements subconsciously affecting our decisions making as consumers?

Advertisements affect our decisions just as all other forms of inspiration do. We are first triggered not by the entirety of something but by one single element of it. It's like being at a club...or an opening night of an art show! You see somebody across the way, you don't know them but the way they wear their hair, or stand, or hold their glass connects with you. Advertising is no different. We see or hear a word, see an image or a colour, and it sticks. And you then want to know more.

• What does your artist process look like?

It looks like a mess! When I am in full creating mode, my apartment...err...studio is literally strewn with posters and panels. I then proceed to mimic a squirrel in a park digging for nuts. I know a specific poster is buried somewhere, I just need to find it! There is usually one core poster fragment I build around. It might feature a word or sentence, or perhaps an image or colour. With that foundation, I simply look to then build around it as I add, shuffle, rotate, and rip other poster fragments in. I rarely have a defined image I am looking to create though. It is very much a process that is about finding the finished image. And when do I know something is finished? When I get a tingle on my arms, a smile on my face, and start nodding. Then I know I have created something!

• What do you hope the viewer draws from engaging with your work?

I like to imagine viewers of my work as a kind of urban archaeologist. This art requires viewers to reconstruct what they see, but also imagine and parse what they can't. I feel viewing my art also asks people to be creative themselves. These posters, once all ripped and torn, all fragmented words and images, ask every viewer to create their own meaning, find their own inspiration.

Eleanor Lowden

Eleanor’s art will take the viewer to a universal happy place - a beautiful garden, which holds the power to be exactly what we need as humans. She makes sure to share her beautiful imaginations in a way that is inviting while also exciting.  

• How does the title ‘Vibrance’ connect to you and your art? 

It’s such a pleasure to be part of the Vibrance Show at Twist Gallery. I think my work often reflects a certain vibrance, the colours and the mood and the settings that inspire me. I’m thrilled to be showcasing my work with this group of artists whose work I admire.

• What inspired you to create your Joyful Garden Series during the pandemic?  

I began my Joyful Garden series during the pandemic in the summer of 2020. I was living in a condo with no garden of my own. During lockdown we were all limited and my outings were mostly to walk my dog. I started noticing gardens and outdoor spaces and gained a new appreciation for them. I began creating my garden series around this time, I felt like I finally had a garden of my own. It was my own form of abstract art that also felt very liberating and fun.

• Do you have a favourite place to create?

I create in my home studio, I love the early morning hours the most. I’m up at 5:30 am and I paint until 7:30 am. when I walk my dog. I then come back and grab a coffee and paint for another few hours. But the early morning hours are still the best.

• Do you ever hit a creative block? How do you overcome it as an artist?

I rarely have a creative block. I am always looking for more time to paint. If I have a day I don’t feel like painting, I always have administrative work to do. My website or my books or my Instagram…..All things that need to be done! 

Phero

Phero’s lust for life and appreciation for all shines through his digital and painted art pieces. His idols, exuberant and talented, bring a sense of inspiration to the viewer for this kind of vibrancy in their own life. He combines mediums to fully grasp expression and emotion in his subjects. 

• How does the title ‘Vibrance’ connect to you and your art? 

Vibrance, to me, means full of life and energy, vibrating at the highest possible power or potential. I feel like my pieces are exactly that they are full of energy, they show movement in their stillness because they are vibrant.

• What inspired you to paint these POC pop culture icons?

I draw my inspiration or choose my “subjects” based on things I believe in or I enjoy. I love hip hop culture which is why a lot of my pieces are so deeply linked to hip hop and the surrounding elements.

• What does your artist process look like?

I usually start it with a mood board or a reference board where I gather pictures of the subject and try to figure out how I can capture them. Then, I start to pencil things in lightly (or outline things digitally), and then I start to drop colour in places and see how the composition comes together, making alterations where I need to.

• What attracted you to painting with and utilizing such rich, saturated hues?

Early on my artist journey when I was trying to develop my unique style, I wanted something where people would be able to easily identify my work immediately. I found the easiest way to do that was to use vibrant colours. It is easy to unify an exhibit when the colours are the same across all pieces.

Rahul Ohja

Rahul’s abstract mind encourages the viewer to step out of their comfort zone and feel the emotions of life that may be previously unexplored. He uses colours and shapes in a way that has an other-worldly effect, a way that will inspire creativity in a vibrant and fun manner. Read for further tips for beginners that Rahul was nice enough to share with us. 

• How does the title ‘Vibrance’ connect to you and your art? 

I believe vibrance is a state of being full of energy and life. My thoughts and variant emotions represent my belief in colours being a central part of all living beings and non-living objects.

I love working with bright sparkling colours & textures in creating bold, vibrant, and colourful abstract art. I try to reinvent myself through my artwork and observe the world with extreme detail — from colour to line, and light to shadow. I do this  because it fulfills me, helps liberate me, enriches me. 

• How have the events in your life influenced your creative process? 

As beings, I believe we are all creators – some masterful with their words, others captivating through their actions and outliers, like myself, through our ability to enthrall with colours on canvas. I have trotted the globe, living and serving in three continents and hence, it is safe to say that my creations transcend cultural and geographic contexts to offer any beholder a sight worth more than what meets the eye. Predominantly through abstract work, I use colours, brushes and strokes as media to explore parts of my own subconscious that have been shaped, ostensibly, by experiences I do not vividly remember.

• What attracted you to painting in the style you have come to adopt?

I do abstract art! I believe every colour has a meaning, it speaks of something, when many colours blend it has a language, a language that has nothing to do with realism or perfectionism... it’s just so powerful… and that is where abstract is born. I direct these colourful, bold, and boundless  abstract language onto canvas and try to connect to people with an aim to sooth, to heal, to energize and help them search for inner peace and tranquility and give life a real meaning!

• Do you have any advice for beginner artists who are nervous to explore new mediums and areas of art?

Abstract art can be a challenge. Beginners may believe that it is very easy, and anyone can do it. For those who have created abstract artworks or have taken a course, know that things can get a little complex. Creating an abstract piece requires certain skill sets.  Don’t let the challenge turn you away. If you are a beginner , there are some tips you can keep in mind to start your journey as an abstract artist. You have to keep the following three main components of abstract artwork in mind: 

1. Composition: While composition plays an important role in all types of artworks, it is especially essential in abstract art. Since abstract art is generally vague, it is important to have a focal point in your painting to capture the viewers’ attention. The shape, size, and placement of the objects on the canvas help create a good composition. 

2. Colour: Since there aren’t any objective rules when it comes to abstract art, it can be easy to get carried away with the colour. However, it is advised to not throw all the colours on your palette onto the canvas before calling it a day. In fact, think about your colour palette before you even pick up the brush. Ideally, choose a limited number of colours and try to get creative with them. Mix these colours on the canvas to create an endless stream of changing shades and colours instead of picking a different tube every two minutes.  

3. Texture: While using the right colors and composition, to ensure that you create an attractive piece of artwork, the texture makes the abstract painting really stand out. You can use various techniques and materials to add texture to your painting. In fact, you can just apply the paint more thickly in places. However, make sure that the texture is consistent throughout the artwork. Even if you have multiple different ideas on how to add texture, leave the rest for your next projects and only use one or two techniques per painting.

Nicole Dimt

Nicole guides you to the future through vivid colours and unique shapes with impeccable attention to detail and design. Her art is limitless, combining a magical imagination with real-world vibrancy that will leave the viewer craving more. 

• How does the title ‘Vibrance’ connect to you and your art? 

Vibrance is the perfect word to describe my art. Every piece I make incorporates multitudes of every colour, which is the main goal of everything I create. In my work, I use the most saturated version of every colour I can, as I want my art to be eye-catching, as well as remind myself, and viewers, of the fascination and the joy that being a child once brought. I use vibrant colours so that my art feels lighthearted, fun, and just a little chaotic.

• The subject in your artwork varies from nature and cityscapes to self-portraits. How do you decide on what subject to focus on? 

My undergrad and the assignments it gave me are what opened me up to exploring many different subject matters within my art. I like to keep a very open-ended and diverse portfolio, and like to play with as many styles as I can. Anything can inspire me. Whenever I see a picture, or another artwork that I like, I get inspired to make something just like it, no matter what it is.

• Do you prefer an abstract or realism style? Why?

It's hard to choose between the two - I often refer to my art as "abstracted reality," because that's exactly what it is. I always start my artworks with a reference of something from real life, such as nature, architecture, or fabric, and edit it digitally to create new wonderlands and worlds, which I then replicate. I would say this is my natural style. Granted, I do love to play with pure realism, and have a few pieces that showcase that in this exhibition. I like to create realism pieces when I find a reference that catches my eye, and I want to test my skill and

• What would you say your biggest inspiration has been during your art journey?

My biggest inspiration throughout my art journey has definitely been all the amazing artists, and friends I met during university. My professors, peers, and mentors are who pushed me to be the artist I am now, and showed me new worlds and possibilities within painting. Many of these people helped me come up with themes and motifs, and really helped me connect with my art and understand it for what it is - something that did not come easily to me. It has been amazing to be around such creative people in my life, and this has continued post-grad into my workplace where I work as a concept artist, surrounded by brilliant minds who are fluent in the digital arts. 

We hope you enjoyed getting to know a little more about the talented artists behind Vibrance! Don’t forget to come check out the exhibit, on from October 4th - 29th.

Also Read: Event Space Toronto, wedding venue Toronto, Wedding Reception Toronto

A ‘WiP (Work In Progress)’ FOR SEPTEMBER

The field of art is one with a heavy burden of expectation; perfectionism can often be the death of great creativity. Fears of failure and rejection are ultimately at the centre of this weight, and it is this very crux we wish to subvert through this exhibit WiP {Work in Progress.}

Retrieved from: https://clyffordstillmuseum.org/blog/clyfford-still-as-a-teacher/

The act of painting is an ongoing exploration of light, texture, materiality, patience and skill abounding in trials, errors and happy accidents. Studies lead to different compositions of shapes, colours and techniques without fear.

 “Within those moments of uninhibited freedom, magic happens.” (Project Art Toronto, 2022)

WiP (Work in Progress) shares the work of 5 artists from Project Art Toronto’s studio. A glimpse into their painting process and the artists' dialogue between subject matter and media. 

Each artist brings their approach to the creative process and unique artistic style and identity. Through the works of these artists, we will be able to experience the joy of exploration and self-discovery.

In the spirit of free-flowing creativity, here are 5 strategies to help capture inspiration:

1. Let go of your fear

It’s important to approach all our endeavors equipped with a sense of self-assurance and confidence! Embark on every new project with a sense of wonder and discovery, and the knowledge that your creative process is part of your art. Fear should be parted with to achieve creative flow.  It was Claude Monet when asked to give advice on painting who said to not be afraid of making mistakes. This is crucial for creativity, to let go of the things holding us back so we may let our creative spirit flow. A Harvard Business Review article by Tom Kelley and David Kelley, explains that there are four common hangups that block our creativity. They include fear of the first step, fear of being judged, fear of the messy unknown, and fear of losing control.

These fears can be the kryptonite to our creativity, but with courage and confidence, we can overcome them.

2. Practice, Practice, Practice

It’s said that to become a master of any skill, one must be prepared to dedicate over 1,000 hours. Practicing the techniques that we have learned can make inspiration more readily available. In a similar way to how one must learn to run before they can play basketball, or to play the violin before being able to play in a symphony, mastering the physical techniques and mediums we wish to work with will make it much easier to use them in our creations. 

3. Iteration is the mother of creation

It is easy to fall into the trap of wanting our first attempt to be the best and only one, but more often than not having multiple attempts and versions is what is most likely to lead to dissatisfaction. The progress made with each iteration is where the magic of creativity lives.

Retrieved From: https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/113153009366238711/

4. Reboot your brain

Often the best way to rekindle our focus and inspiration is to step back from our project altogether. Psychologist Robert Epstein, PhD, a Harvard graduate, says stress and time constraints can squash your creative process.

Here are a few ways to give your mind a reset:

• Snack break: Sometimes we focus best when we satisfy our stomachs. Find a snack to munch on while you think!

• Shake it out: If you are having trouble focusing or finding your inspiration, physical movement can be a great energizer. Get up, stretch, take a walk, or do a little dance, give your limbs and joints a shake, just move!

• Shift gears: Diverting your focus to another project or subject can help get the creative juices flowing when the well is running dry. Consider switching to an old project, watching a video about a different type of art, or even reading a book to give your brain a different influx of ideas.

• Siesta time: Sometimes the best way to reset our mind is to shut it off completely for a moment and rest. Set a timer for 15 minutes and find a cool and comfortable spot to catch a few Z’s, it can be just what your creative brain needs.

• Space out: There can be times when we can benefit the most from just disengaging our minds. Why not lie on some grass and watch the clouds pass by?

5. Take a second look

Take a moment to pause your mind, and look around you at all of the things you usually encounter, but this time, try to look beyond what you normally see. Find in its countenance the beauty or interest you might have missed. How would you describe this object, colour, or texture to someone who could not see it? 

Find the grace in the curves of a vase or cup on your table, and take in the rhythm and movement of the branches and leaves of a tree you are familiar with. Be sure to take notes of your observations and thoughts, these are just for you, so don’t worry about editing, write any thoughts that arise, or take a picture to refer back to at a later time.

 When we take a second look we can be surprised by the inspiration we find. Approaching our day-to-day surroundings with curiosity and wonder can bring about great ideas.

6. Relish where you are at

Every masterpiece has been a Work in Progress until the creator decides it is completed.  Unfinished projects possess a special quality of possibility and transition, which is beautiful in and of itself. Take a moment to appreciate your progress and the stage your project is in, without judgment or criticism, and let yourself love every aspect and minute that is a part of its journey.

Twist Gallery is thrilled to announce that we will be hosting WiP (Work in Progress) for September with Project Art Toronto. An anticipated exhibit to be featured at our space. Stay tuned for more on WiP and how the process came to life with an amazing group of artists from Project Art Toronto. 

Retrieved from:

*Harvard Business Review, Reclaim Your Creative Confidence in August 2022

**American Psychological Association, The Science of Creativity in August 2022

***Greater Good Magazine, How Mind-Wandering May Be Good For You in August 2022

Unconventional Wedding Ideas to Make Your Day Even More Unique

Your wedding day is supposed to be the most magical day of your life– full of love, friends, and family. That being said, traditional weddings aren’t the only way to go. Having personalised, different touches will give you and your guests a special experience that will leave a unique memory and inspire everyone to think a little bit outside of the box. Whether it is the wedding venue, food, or decorations, creativity will always shine through. At the end of the day, always do what makes you and your partner happy. Here are some ideas to inspire you: 

1. Unique Wedding Cake

Flavours aren’t the only thing you can customise in your wedding cake. There are so many unique options to do instead of your standard white tiered wedding cake. Going for a cake made of donuts, cupcakes, crepes, (or sushi?!) allows for your guests to actually enjoy a piece of cake without the mess and stress of cutting it evenly. Top it off with customised bobble head figurines of you and your partner for an extra touch of humour and cuteness.

2. Not-So-Typical Outfit

There is no denying that a long extravagant white gown is beautiful, timeless, and symbolic of a wedding day. That being said, there is nothing more symbolic than a statement outfit. Try a white pantsuit or 2 piece set instead of a traditional ball gown. It is both bold and memorable to step outside of the typical expectations. If you still want to wear a dress, opt for a short and breezy dress– perfect for summer and more comfortable to dance in all night! Speaking of comfort, always keep a pair of comfortable dancing shoes with you. Your feet will thank you later.

3. Book a Cool, Modern Art Gallery Instead of a Regular Event Hall

Let’s face it… we should leave the event halls for business conferences and high school proms. The wedding venue is the very basis of your special day, and choosing a venue that is beautiful and unique, enriched with art and culture can completely transform the magical feeling of celebrating love. In Toronto, there are countless galleries and event spaces to choose from– most notable Twist Gallery on Queen St W. This space offers open, high ceilings, huge beautiful windows, and is lined with incredible art from local artists to help you celebrate your day. Call (416) 588-2222 for more information.

4. Toss Out Bouquet Toss for a Fun New Game Instead

As fun as tossing the bouquet is, the game is admittedly not very exciting or inclusive to every wedding guest. If you’re opting for an outside wedding, consider setting up cornhole, bocce ball, or giant jenga to ensure all your guests can join in the fun. If your venue is indoors, have interactive games like Connect 4, Chess, and Tic Tac Toe stations. Add a DIY craft station to encourage creativity and allow your guests to leave you special little gifts to commemorate the magical day.

5. Audio Recorded Guest Book

You’re probably wondering what we mean by an audio recorded guest book. Well, it’s exactly that: a guest book full of sweet messages that you can listen to over and over! Your guests can leave you messages that will create the sweetest playlist of all time. Have both audio and written guest books if you want double the love!

6. Unique Centrepieces

Although flowers and greenery are undeniably beautiful, they are basic wedding centrepieces that do not necessarily “WOW” a crowd. We suggest doing something more personal, something that reflects you and your partners personalities and can be sent home as wedding gifts for your guests. Pile 5-10 of your favourite books on each table, books that tell your loved ones the stories that moved you and the words that left their mark on you. They will likely not be reading during the wedding, but they can take home the book that stood out to them the most, and hopefully pass it on to someone else they love after.

At the end of the day, all that matters on your wedding day is you and your partner celebrating your love with the people who mean the most to you. Everything else is just details– but within these details is where you can get creative, exciting, and fun. Create unforgettable memories in unique ways by expressing your love with these little tips!

Gestures Opening Reception: a Huge Success

We kicked off our Gestures exhibit with an Opening Reception last night. We had a great turnout, and it was a great first Opening Reception since Covid-19 happened. The event brought together people of all different art backgrounds, from artists to people who just love to look at art! They were all united for their shared love of art at the Opening Reception.

Gestures Exhibit has eight different artists showcasing their artwork. All the pieces in Gestures focus on how every brush stroke is intentional and essential. The textures on each canvas are unique in this exhibit. You will have to see the pieces in-person to see the texture detail because each canvas is unique.

Gestures Artist Andrea Higgins!

Gestures’ Artists Alice Kelso and Vian Ewart, and Eva Stryjnik!

The artists had a blast mingling with friends, family, and art lovers. We also sold three paintings during the night!

Twist Gallery’s Director had a blast getting behind the bar to serve everyone drinks!

Cheers to a good night!

We want to thank you all for coming and having a great time with us! We are looking forward to having another Opening Reception for our next exhibit. Keep an eye out on your emails, and we will send you information regarding the next exhibit and its Opening Reception details.

Want to join our mailing list? Click here!

Wedding Planning Tips for Newly Engaged Couples

Planning a wedding is fun, but there are a lot of steps involved, and newly engaged couples need to work together so that the process does not become overwhelming.

If you want to enjoy the planning process, make sure you do the following:

Discuss The Bigger Topics Right Away

Things like budget, location and the number of people you want to invite are big conversations you need to discuss upfront. Discuss these aspects as soon as you get engaged because they will provide you with a solid foundation on which you can base the rest of your planning. Having these conversations early on will also ensure you and your partner are on the same page, so there will not be disagreements later on. You should never assume you know what the other person wants, and this is a special day for both you and your partner, so you need to plan your wedding together.

Don’t Worry About The Opinion Of Others

Once you get engaged, you will see that everyone has an opinion, and people will want to offer you advice everywhere you go. In some cases, this information can be useful, but it can be frustrating and very annoying in many cases, especially if it is unsolicited. In these situations, take a deep breath and simply smile and say thank you. You can then do whatever you want with this information, and if you find their tips to be helpful, you can implement them into your planning. If you don’t find their tips to be useful in any way, just let them roll off your back and remember that this is your day!

Decide Whether Or Not You Want To Hire A Wedding Planner

Wedding planners can be very helpful because they will help you plan every detail and will handle every step. They will also be present on the day of your wedding to ensure everything is in place, and you will not stress because their knowledge will help you plan your dream wedding. If you do decide to hire a wedding planner, involve them in your planning as soon as you get engaged.

Don’t Forget To Have Fun

Wedding planning can consume every minute of your day if you allow this to happen, so you have to take a step back so that you have fun along the way. Your engagement is a special time in your life, and it’s important to enjoy it because this only happens once, and you need to remember to soak up the excitement that comes with this phase. Planning is very important, but date nights don’t revolve around your wedding, so remember to celebrate your relationship and not make everything about the wedding.

When it comes to your wedding location, Twist Gallery Inc can help. Our venue is both beautiful and unique, so if you want your wedding day to be magical, contact us today!

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue

There are a lot of steps involved in planning the perfect wedding, and choosing the right venue will take time and careful consideration. There are many different types of venues, and you can choose anything from a stunning ballroom to a restaurant, so the process will require thought.

If you feel overwhelmed in this regard, the following guide will help you select the perfect wedding venue.

Talk to a Wedding Planner

They are familiar with different venues and can talk to you about space, layout and what is needed to transform the space. They will know whether or not the venue is suitable for your needs and will discuss any problems that would prevent your vision from being accomplished.

Make Sure the Venue Can Bring Your Ideas to Life

Most couples have a certain aesthetic in mind, so you need to look at venues that align with your vision. If, for example, you are planning a modern wedding, an art gallery or a warehouse would be ideal, whereas a more natural wedding would be better suited in a park or backyard. The venue should fit in with your theme because this will connect your wedding to the space.

Determine the Number of Guests You Want to Invite

Knowing this information will guide you towards the right venues and prevent you from choosing a too big or too small space. Both of these would be problematic, so discuss this aspect in advance to determine the number of guests you will be working with.

Don’t Forget to Consider Your Budget

This is an important step because your budget will dictate which venues you can consider. Certain venues will charge per plate, while others will have separate costs to rent the space and a different cost for catering. You have to know your budget and need to stick to it to not feel stressed. Don’t forget to factor in décor and any floral designs, as these, too, will drive up the costs. Some venues are full-service, while others will allow you to bring in your own vendors and décor, so you have to price everything out and must think about what is included and what is not. For example, if you were to get married in a warehouse, you would have to rent tables and chairs, whereas a full-service venue would provide these items and include them in their fee.

Choose the Venue that Makes You Happy

Always ask yourself what feels authentic to you and your partner to stay true to yourself. Your wedding should ultimately be a representation of who you are as a couple, and the right venue will help in this regard.

If you are looking for unique wedding venues in Toronto, Twist Gallery Inc is the perfect space for your next event! Contact us today for more information!

Read More: MOST UNIQUE WEDDING VENUES TORONTO

Toronto Artisan Market for December 12, 2021

With the holidays coming closer and closer so does our annual Christmas Toronto Artisan Market at Twist gallery opening December 12th from 11 am - 5pm. The Toronto Artisan is a non-profit organization who provides a platform for local artists to sell and promote their works such as art pieces and handmade crafts! The organization strives to promote local sustainable products to support local artisans, as well as to practice diversity and inclusivity by incorporating various businesses.

We will have plenty of vendors to showcase this Sunday! Here are some of the talented local artisans who will be at the market:

Caro Sanchez, Handcrafted jewelry using recycled precious metals and natural stones.

Art Speak Studio, Sarah is a self taught artist that first began painting during the beginning of quarantine in 2020. Using the online art community as her ongoing education, it prompts Sarah to use a mix of emulation and intuition to find her personal style of application.

Coffee.Core.Confession, My digital composite method borrows from a film process of double exposure and the unpredictable effects it reveals. The method relates to how our mind composes our memories; often layering details on top of unrelated events.

Soi BioLuxe, people value Natural and Organic Ingredients. I felt extremely inspired and decided to pursue my lifelong dream of creating my own Organic Skin Care Company. 

Now that you've seen a sneak peak to some of our great vendors, here's the rest that we will be having :

Lisa Maxwell Jewelry

Caro Sanchez

Love & Light Jewels

Talis

Arts Speak Studio

Jaketobin Illustration

Flanzella

Watercolorimpressions

Top Drawer Vintage Art

sophiachoi

Craft in Comfort

Clever Clippings

Coffee.Core.Confession

Inspirate Lab

Soi BioLuxe

Andie & Co.

Grounded Ceramics

Machine Woodworking

DogRags

The Chic Upcyclery

Toronto Dog Moms

CH Studio

The Split Leaf

oakridges Finest

Come Check all of these great vendors out and enjoy, you can purchase fresh baked goods, coffee/tea and refreshments. When entering the gallery please remember to bring a mask, masks are mandatory throughout this event. We hope to see you there and have a great time!