The Bridal Roundtable

{Modern Beauty}

2011-03-29T20:56:00.001-04:00

I've known about this company for a while and am so excited to share it with you. This one is for both my photography friends and everyone! Drop It Modern, a luxury backdrop company out of California, was launched in 2008 by photographer Breanne Schaap. Breanne has a love for design in all mediums and wanted to bring fabrics of design to every genre with custom print.

From their website, "Today Drop it MODERN© is the "Original Modern Backdrop Company" known and loved for their rich textures, modern designs and quality materials."

Their website states that they have developed these beautiful backdrops for "the discerning photographer"; but I'm thinking, "Hey! This would be perfect for the DIY bride designing a Guest Photo Area; or hell, even for me to like, hang behind my couch or something. I'm loving these things!

See what I mean? I could look like this when you walk into my house...I have white chairs!

Ok, so what if you're not doing a Guest Photo Area, and you have like paint on the wall and carpeting
and don't really need it for your couch area. How are you going to use it in your Newport wedding?? I'm sorry...do you NOT see the potential for stand-out ~ rock star dessert table displays?

The potential for these beauties is endless. On their website, they offer an "Imperfect Inventory" page for more affordable options. They also offer International and Same Day Shipping for the procrastinator, or the emergency-driven go getter.

They offer durable, simple to use support systems and reflectors developed for portability to take on the go and for easy set-up.

Drop It Modern is also wonderful in so many other ways! They donate a portion of their sales to Living Water International, which provides clean drinking water around the world. And just when I thought I couldn't love them any more...

All images via Drop It Modern

Nautical Newport Bridesmaids Gifts

2011-01-06T13:29:00.002-05:00

Finding the right bridesmaids gifts is sometimes a daunting task. You want to get the perfect thing that they will use or wear; and you want it to also linger with remembrance of the special time you spent with them throughout your planning and Big Day. Well, I am DYING over this new discovery! Style Newport is a Newport, Rhode Island-based jewelry design business with the absolute perfect gift you're looking for.

You can individualize your gifts by choosing specific Nautical Signal Flags. According to the website, "Signal flags represent both letters and numbers and are used to send messages to and from boats. Think of it as nautical sign language." Karen King, owner and designer first was inspired by a gift her husband gave her which was a ring that spelled out "I love you" in nautical flags. So each item can carry a secret message! Swoon!

You can find each letter and its charm here.

There are many options: customized bracelets and necklaces choosing charms and beads of your choice.

While you're on their site, don't forget to grab a bunch of these:

ALL of your bridesmaids will want one for when they're on the water, or anywhere near the water.
All jewelry is produced using U.S. based suppliers and Rhode Island craftsmen. Which makes me love this store even more.

Now I'm off to send my boyfriend this blog post. I'll be anxiously awaiting my own "I love you" message..hint, hint!

Home for the Holidays

2010-12-03T13:46:00.000-05:00

I'm going back home for the holidays...back to Ohio and I'm feeling a bit nostalgic. I love living here in Rhode Island, but there's nothing like wide open spaces, air to breathe, green space (brown space in the winter), and watching sunsets from miles away....I can't wait!

"I'll be home for Christmas, you can count on me...."

pics via From Me to You

The Royal Wedding Gown--ahh, to be Kate...

2010-11-23T10:16:00.003-05:00

Soo much talk about the Kate and Wills wedding..but let's be honest, who cares about anything other than what she's going to wear??

These wedding gown sketches by leading designers were revealed as potentials for Kate Middleton's gown.
Which one would you choose? I think I'm partial to the Ralph and Russo...

Ashley-Isham

ben-de-lis

Monique Lhuillier

Ralph and Russo

Reem Acra


Reem Acra

What do you think??

Newport Holiday Parties

2010-11-08T14:16:00.000-05:00

After the dusting of snow this morning, I was just feeling a little excited about upcoming holiday parties

pics via this is glamorous

Why you should Trim your Guest List

2010-10-22T14:30:00.002-04:00

Just as Coco Chanel is quoted as saying, "Take off one thing before you leave the house", so should you think in this context when it comes to your wedding. As a wedding planner, I know better than anyone how hard this can be for the couple. Your intentions can start off reasonable; but as yourself and your parents start to remember 3rd cousins and long lost co-workers who were great, the list can become longer and longer....and longer.

Image via Funky Town Photography

Why is it so important to cut the guest list when we have the old addage"The More the Merrier"?
I'll tell you why:
Budget, budget, budget!
You have a budget when you start planning your wedding (hopefully). Every single one of us are trying to get the very best that their money can buy; and when planning a wedding, everything(usually) is based on a per person price. Therefore, the more people you add, the more money you spend. And yes, this even includes a wedding with stations, buffet, and cocktail/hors doeuvres-only for food. You will also add more favors, welcome gift bags, alcohol to the bar, cake/dessert, furniture (if rented)..and on and on and on.

So you can see why I get a little on edge when I have a bride and groom kinda "sneak" it in that their guest list was at 125 people and they are now up to 155 people. It will cost you more and you will get less of the quality things that you want! You will have to start skimping, eliminating things and start to become unhappy about the loss.

Being a Host - Not an Attraction
Yes, you are going to be gorgeous and absolute perfection after you find that perfect dress and hair/makeup are flawless. But don't forget that your guests will remember your wedding with affection if you are also a great host. Think about a great dinner party you've been to where you had the most fun because the host was welcoming and having a good time themselves. They looked great and socialized with each person, knowing all along this was their affair and everyone had a great time.

This is what you want for your wedding! If you have an obscene amount of people (half of whom you don't really know anymore, or never knew), there is no way in hell you're going to be a great host. Instead, you become the attraction. The statuesque figure everyone admires from afar. The one that is halfway listening to their long-lost Uncle Cliff scream something in their ear while gazing like a deer in headlights around the room to find a familiar face.

Personalization vs. Cookie Cutter
Like I mentioned before, if you have more money because of a smaller guest list, you can really personalize your wedding and make it stand out. Use the extra money to get themed favors, letterpress invitations and paper goods, and splurge on spectacular details that no one else has done before. With your smaller guest list of close family and friends; they will be sure to appreciate it more than your Dad's sales rep from Chattanooga who almost made it on the list.

Just some food for thought today on why Bigger isn't always Better. Now, get out there and cut that list to stay on budget...as a favor to your friendly wedding planner.

Phillipe Starck Seating

2010-10-18T11:57:00.001-04:00

I'm in love with Phillipe Starck. For those of you who don't know who he is, you can read all about him here and here. Basically, he is a Design God who invents everything from the very famous King Louis Ghost Chair to household items; and designs for hotels, clothing and oh yeah...$300 million yachts for Russian billionaires.

My love of him started with a trip to visit my favorite girlfriend in NYC. She was there for business and I took the train in to meet her at the Hudson Hotel (designed by Starck). That's all I needed.

He combines old design with modern and puts a functional, streamlined twist for variations of seating for the home and events.
Now I love a good chiavarri like the rest of us, but what about thinking outside the box for seating at your wedding? How bout some different Cocktail Hour seating, y'all??

Inspriration for your wedding or event with Phillipe Starck:

Ryann and Rick: Real Wedding

2010-09-08T14:40:00.003-04:00

I've been absent blogging lately because of the busy wedding season; but I didn't want the season to pass by without showcasing some real weddings that have passed. Here's one and there's more to come...

Ryann and Rick are a NYC couple who came to Newport, RI to be married at The Regatta Place. It's a beautiful location on Goat Island in Newport, literally situated on a dock in the middle of what I call "Yachtville". A summer storm rolled in right after the rehearsal and the bride is so sweet she didn't worry about her wedding the next day, but said, "I feel sooo bad for the bride" that was being married there that night.

It ended up being a gorgeous summer day (and night) on the water and Ryann and Rick were such a relaxed and fun couple to work with...I love their style. The photos are from Melissa Coe Photography and it's no wonder why she is internationally recognized; plus, she's such a cool chick with a great sense of humor; and the ultimate professional.

Ryann and Rick decided they wanted something non-fussy with a cream palette, along with deep purple arrangements. The great Sayles Livingston Floral Design hit the nail on the head with fantastic simplistic and chic elements.

The ceremony was beautiful and the couple were randomly invited aboard a yacht where they got great pics!

I love this pic! This yacht was Tiffany Blue!
I was not only hired as planner, but also to put together a candy dessert table. In lieu of a traditional cake, Ryann and Rick went for candy with "To Stay" bags and "To Go" bags:

It was a great night and even greater couple! Congratulations Rick and Ryann!

Photos: Melissa Coe Photography
Venue: The Regatta Place
Floral Design: Sayles Livingston

Paris on the Mind: Lov'n LADUREE

2010-08-05T09:47:00.000-04:00

I have Paris on the mind and am thinking of ways to visit there sometime. I want to be inspired by the cafes and food and fashion. I'm also searching for inspiration for dessert tables I am asked to construct for weddings; and along with trying to compose an authentic Parisian style shoot as well, I've scoured the internet for inspiration and ran into LADUREE.

The Laduree family opened one of the first Parisian tea rooms in a quest to combine cafes with high end pastries and tea. Laduree is now renowned for it's one-of-a-kind macaroons, chocolates, cupcakes and tea and you can order there products online HERE.
From the Laduree website, a little somethin'- somethin' you can send to a friend (ahem! hint, hint, friends) Little bits of wonderful like these:

How cool is this checkered green box!?

But they have also introduced a beauty division with products such as scented candles and cards, bath powders and salts. I'm dying for the scented cards to leave someone...or maybe I'll just write myself a little note ...

Now, I've seen a TON of macaroons everywhere here in the states; but this is how you do it people!

Images via Bardot in Blue

You can order online, or you can just go directly to their shops. Like here at Laduree Bonaparte in Paris:

Or if you happen to be in Milan, for like fashion week or something you can go to their Milan location:

Ahh, the inspiration! To find more about all things French, go to Bardot in Blue. It just happens to be a fantastic little blog about a girl living in Paris. She takes great pics and documents her adventures and daily inspiration.

Au revoir for now!

Now Offering Wedding Vignettes and Video Save the Dates!

2010-07-29T13:31:00.001-04:00

So, little do people know that I actually started a video production company years ago. This was in between working for catering companies and hotels planning weddings and events. It's off on it's own now and very successful (you can see it's awesomeness HERE )

In brainstorming what I could offer brides that would really make a difference in their experience; I realized that I had everything they needed to make their wedding memorable ; Seamless Wedding Planning and Video Production

I can develop budgets, timelines, plan details, details and more details to finite precision; but I also want to help capture that event in a memorable way. A way that doesn't make people cringe when a few years from now you ask your friends, who are over for a BBQ, "You wanna watch our wedding video"?

Something that captures just the intimate and most important moments and details. Here is our first installment of a Wedding Vignette:

rich and jen wedding from video expedition on Vimeo.

Each video will be unique to each couple and scored to the song of their choice.

We are also adding Video Save-the-Dates! We are customizing Video Save-the-Dates for each couple to really highlight their personality and style. We will then give the client an uploadable version to be sent out as their Save-the-Date. You can also use this on your wedding website! We are finishing up on our premeire of that and I will post soon!

Pass it along, if you book before September 1st, 2010, you will receive 20% off of a Wedding Planning Package of your choice ~ schweet!

Real Wedding Making My Day

2010-07-06T09:21:00.000-04:00

This totally caught my eye today thinking about going to NYC in a couple of weeks. Finding inspiration everywhere and throwing out bold colors for signature style. Check out the couples retro style and Corpse Bride theme on the invitations.

How great is that pic of the bride drinking out of a straw? The last pic is true NYC style and I love it!

pics via Project Wedding

The Way to a Man's Heart: Food. The Way to a Woman's Heart: a Fashionable Man

2010-06-24T15:14:00.001-04:00

I'm sure if you're a bride you have everything pictured perfectly and well-mapped out in your head. Especially what you'll look on your Big Day and for the rehearsal dinner. But what about your Groom? It's not going to be all that great to look back at the photos of your rehearsal dinner (pre-partying with your friends); if you look awesome, and then realize you hung your honey out to dry with only a "so-so" outfit for the night.

I mean guys love to look hot. They will be the center of attention too!

These are perfect for a summer rehearsal dinner...especially here in Newport, RI. If you're not a member of Gilt Group yet, stop reading this and sign up (and tell them I sent you). They have the greatest auctions on high-end clothing, bags, housewares and even vacations. I found everything that I've posted here through them, and if you check out the prices your jaw will drop and excitement will fill your heart.

seersucker blazer, seersucker pants and holy vneck sweater by Buckler check out their website...friggin' awesome!
plaid tie by Personality Milano ties
orange/yellow tie by Duncan Quinn
raspberry/blue tie by Massimo Bizzocchi

Oh! And don't forget their accessories too. The cufflinks would be perfect for either rehearsal dinner or wedding day. Choose one of these to help him bling it out with purple, keep the time on his sleeve or carry a little something special with him in a cufflink locket.

For your honeymoon, get him this diving watch that looks pretty cool on land as well as sea. It goes well with the leather passport holder, because I know you're going somewhere swanky, right?

cufflinks by st. dupont, link up and watch white
black diver watch by Invictus Watches
leather passport holder by Gordon Rush

So, don't forget the icing on the cake...the man next to you!

Tuesday Tablescapes

2010-06-22T12:21:00.000-04:00

Just because I'm in love with summer, and the fact that upcoming events are in the Florida Keys, outdoors at a beautiful New England estate, and another at a rustic/natural venue...this is pretty much what is in my head this week:

Couldn't you just live in the pic on with the Dogwood and knotted linens? Of course you could...the champagne stays!

Pics: Style Me Pretty &
Martha Stewart Weddings

Planner Knows Best...

2010-06-18T11:51:00.003-04:00

I wanted to point out an issue that occurred this weekend and thought it could be the first in a series of "But what if THIS happens..." that I get asked so much. I hope to post a blog about unforeseen issues that arise as they happen so that you can learn and be prepared.

I can't stress enough how important diligent planning is in not only making your Big Day run smoothly; but also to save you money, time and frustrations. Thinking about every single aspect of each item, vendor, and detail and what could possibly go wrong will help you cover all of your bases.

I was hired recently by a couple from NYC; coming to be married in Newport, RI. They have almost everything planned already and felt they needed a Day-Of Planner to help with finite details, timelines, decor, etc. We met face to face for the first time this weekend with their venue/caterer and found that the Bride and Groom have sent their invitations out already - as they should have - it's a destination wedding and we're only 7 weeks out; but haven't chosen their final menu yet. What's wrong with that, you ask? Well, nothing if you're having stations, or just passing hors d'oeuvres. But, if you're having a served meal, you MUST pick your menu prior to sending invites! When the Bride realized that she didn't ask her guests to choose if they wanted Chicken, Steak or Vegetarian, I saw a look of panic.

This is yet another example of why it's so important to hire a trained and experienced Wedding Planner to help with your details. This is also why complete communication with your venue manager and/or planner is THE most important thing you can do. We're here to help you make your day unbelievable, but need to know everything you're doing along the way to guide in the right direction.

So what do you do in a situation like this? You have to send out yet another mailing. There's no way around it. Wait for your RSVP's to come in and if they're only coming in a trickle, start calling people to confirm. You can then send out another card and self addressed stamped envelope, to everyone who has confirmed, to get their dinner selections. This is a pain and more money, but a very necessary expense.

You can ask anyone who has worked in the catering and event industry and they will tell you; timing is everything. If the chef and servers don't know what the guests are eating and how much to prepare, it WILL be disastrous. If you are in a pinch like this, I find that Wedding Paper Divas is wonderful to work with and you can get things turned around really quickly. The great thing is that you can also customize with your look and theme of event, as to not lose "your look".

There are always solutions, but prevention is the best route. Wait, does that line sound like an after-school special?

photo: Getty Images
Invitations: Wiley Valentine and The Green Kangaroo

This was going to be about Linens...

2010-06-10T14:01:00.001-04:00

...But, it's now about how to find more inspiration. This is now called "Bonded: Highlight on the Exceptional Photography of Corrie Bond."

Maybe it's because I'm feeling so funky today; like I'm in sweats, no makeup, and almost severed my index finger last night on a dirty can of beans (yeah, it's bad..and looks incredibly terrible too). I can simply go to THIS fabulous site to completely change my mood and find inspiration for what I want to feel like on many different occasions.

There are so many wedding based blogs and websites that delve out info and have "search" bars pertaining to any keywords you can imagine; mostly packaged up in a nice little inspiration board for you to draw from. Which is fantastic most of time, but sometimes you need a little more grit. What's better than an original idea popping into your head after walking the streets, of say, right here in Providence, an artists' mecca.

Most inspiration I have for weddings and events come from how I'm feeling at the time. And I scour editorial and lifestyle photographer's websites to "bring to life" those images in my head. The one I almost ALWAYS go to is Corrie Bond. Even that name makes my stomach flutter.

This is how I feel most of the time. And of course, it's purple, which is my signature color (and white).

What is she capturing here? Whimsy, Relaxed sophistication, Eclectic style, hints of Fun personality. This is everything that I can see in a Wedding.

What about when you're feeling softer, yet rustic...like a white dress and cowboy boots?

Bond's portfolio will bring you to whatever you imagine for you event

What I'm saying is don't limit yourself to wedding sites exclusively. Whether you're working with a Planner, or by yourself, opening yourself up to other sources of inspiration with everyday life and art will provide you an obscene amount of information and ideas. Find your feeling and your signature style...it's out there. I'm going to close this out with my inspiration for what I will look like on my honeymoon in Monaco.

So, go on...venture out! Don't be afraid to go out of your comfort zone to broaden your horizons. OH! And look out for the can of beans. ouch.

Bleu Beauties

2010-03-15T11:36:00.001-04:00

In search for a wonderful wedding gift to get one of my very best girls I came upon something that just might be worthy. I'm in LURVE with Bleu Garters! Based out of L.A. and available for purchase online, the beauty and selection of these lovelies are making me so happy inside.

Choose from categories like Moulin Rouge, Paris 1928, an entire Bridal selection or custom order the perfect garter you have in your head.

With selections like "Monaco in White", "Dolly in Pink", "Cupid" and "Modern Pinup", you could find a million different occasions to wear these garters. Like, for your boudoir photo shoot, wedding and even a sexy night out on your honeymoon. You definitely won't want your hubby tossing this at his guys, so buy a different one for the toss at the reception. I might even get one for myself...do you think they "go" with Uggs?

photos via YWD blog

So Succulent!

2010-03-09T14:34:00.003-05:00

Get inspired by the simplicity of casual settings! Succulents are making a HUGE entrance into weddings. Brides are searching for elegant ways to differentiate their details from weddings of the past and succulents are where it's at!

Not only are they gorgeous for a rustic, vintage-inspired bash, they hold up so well to any element, and are for sure a keepsake for family and guests...or even for the bride and groom to start with plants in their new home.

If you really want to watch your budget and rock your green thumb, you can grow your own for next to nothing here . Or even Crate and Barrel has these wonderful succulents already potted and ready to go for $14.95.

I love them as boutonnieres:

image via flourish designs

Even as a stunning bouquet with a pop of colour:

image via dailyblossom

Use these beauties as place card holders for an interesting display and guest favor:

And they are best placed as creative centerpieces. Different species, different looks, placed in rustic containers are so chic and full of life:

I'm quite excited about our new bulging little friends. Bringing life to the party...leaving colorful blooms in their dust.

Not So Sweet

2010-02-11T15:56:00.001-05:00

My inspiration for style right now: Bam! Take that, pink!

Just because I have a date on Saturday night at Pot au Feu and am feeling a bit noir-ish. That's all. By the way, check out those shoes by Dior. love.

green apple photography

Merveilleux

2010-01-08T13:47:00.001-05:00

I found this wonderful Parisian inspired wedding on Ruffled this morning and it has me dreaming of summer weddings and pink pastries. How did I ever miss this?! Ahh...I can feel the warm weather already. Love is in the air...

Both the bridesmaids and groomsmen are rocking the hell out of the pink and blue

Ok, Check out these fingerless gloves! I'm pulling my hair out!

Gorgeous blue flowers piled high above the cake with fluer de lis designs!! Too cute.

Excuse me, is that an adorable Parisian bakery set in the background? That's what I thought.

I just died.

Hello, why have I never thought of blue and white Faberge eggs in the fountain? So unique.

I want to wake up to this rose centerpiece next to my bed every single day. Gorg.

*all photos by Jamie Hammond Photography via Amorology

The Cherry on Top: The Food

2009-12-29T16:43:00.004-05:00

Every morning, and throughout the day I'm looking at everything weddings. What I find the most of is style and DIY. They have their place, but considering almost 60% of wedding budgets are spent on the reception, I thought I would give a "shout-out" to my favorite part of the wedding: THE FOOD. I know, I know. Some people out there are saying, "who cares?" Some are saying, "the guests don't even remember what they had to eat at our wedding. Heck! I don't remember what I had at the wedding I went to a week ago; I'm sure it was either chicken, steak or fish."

But, if done right, the food for your wedding can enhance your theme and style. It could have your guests oo'ing and ahh'ing as you knock their wigs crooked with yet another amazing detail and pleasure. I mean, you're spending a lot of money on this stuff....you should do it right...right?

The trend right now as you can see from the pics above is mini, mini, teeny, weeny. That's ok with me! You get to sample so many different flavors and courses without feeling like your gorging on an oversized meal...even though you MAY be getting even more. A small caprese salad, mini cheeseburger sliders (for an all american bbq feel), mini watermelon bowls filled with...ummm...good stuff? And even bite sized mac and cheese. Mouth watering.

Or if you're having a spring, summer, or fall wedding here in Southern New England I suggest a good 'ol fashioned clambake. It's a great way to feed your guests like their kings and it's so nautical chic I can't even say. You can read about the process here. It's food and entertainment in one fell swoop.

And don't forget to be creative with dessert. For serious inspiration and drool-inducing envy go here to Amy Atlas Events. I want to live in her website.

Just remember to be creative and have a vision of what you would like your food to look like and taste like. Communicate that to your caterer. They are actually always very open and excited to create new ideas and dishes for your wedding.

More later on how to choose a caterer and "What the #@?* is a BEO?"

Phew! Is it time for dinner yet?

Valentino, I HEART YOU!

2009-12-14T13:32:00.001-05:00

I'm in love with Valentino shoes for a Christmas or winter wedding this year. Guys, this would be a great gift to spring on your future wifey. Perfect for your winter wedding and for any dressy occassion thereafter. Believe me, you "had her at hello" with any of these shoes!

Love me some Lolliblog

2009-11-30T15:14:00.003-05:00

Lollipop Events and Design has one of my very favorite blogs: ilovelollipops...it's the planners blog of planner's blogs. Kinda of like when you say Sam Rockwell is an actor's actor. I am over-the-top with her latest Palm Springs wedding. She explains in detail how she got inspiration from the bride and groom, constructed design from the details they brought her, and the final amazing product. Check out her details of bowties throughout the event, along with the use of yellow and lemon (architectural construction of lemonheads--you had me at hello)

Check out their website and blog for more inspiration and eye-popping designs.

Whoa Nelle!!

2009-11-25T13:17:00.002-05:00

I'm sooooo excited to here that Nelle is coming out with a new line for 2010 that's more amazing than ever before! I know that certain specialty stores carry this line...and praying that a specialty store here in New England gets on board.

photo courtesy of Sash and Bustle

Planner Envy

2009-11-16T13:49:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure exactly how I missed it, but a few days ago Style Me Pretty, the amazing Boston-based wedding blog posted this destination wedding by infamous planner Yifat Oren and photographed by Gia Canali. I can't really preface this with a feeling. It's a feeling that maybe only a planner can have when you realize someone has designed something so organically, spiritually beautiful. You just know it when you see it. This is Monday zen...behold (Oh, and I DIE over her dress.) Go to the link at Style Me Pretty for a bigger view.

Easy Accessoreezy

2009-11-11T13:32:00.011-05:00

It's easy to freak out about your accessories. Even if it's just a night out, much less your wedding day. What style of necklace do you wear with which neckline? What about no necklace at all? Bangles..too trendy? A ring other than the all important band? Will that take away from the great engagement ring your honey bought you? Drop earrings or post? Make a SERIOUS statement, or accessorize just perfectly to balance out your dress?

Although I'm the type of person who thinks you can never go wrong making a statement; I don't think it's right for everyone. For instance, my sister is the type to have small posts and MAYBE a necklace, whereas, I would wear bangles all the way up my arms, over gloves with huge drop earrings, preferably in the brighest purple you can find. The great thing is that there are a lot of different options for every bride to feel like she has on something special...the perfect accessory to suit her ensemb and personality.

Homage to Mermaid

2009-11-05T12:29:00.020-05:00

In looking through all online mags featuring Spring and Fall 2010 Wedding gowns, I find two things are going through my mind: I'm obsessed with couture designer Ines Di Santo, who is partnering with Jobyna's Bridal in Glendale, California for a new dreamy loft of gowns; and also that winter is the time to bring sexy back.

Throughout the spring and summer I saw a lot of dreamy, wispy, floral and vintage. Winter seems to be the time for old hollywood glamour, sex appeal, figure hugging and grand parties. These are some of my favorites I've found...and also, most are champagne colored!

More later on fabulous accessories to define your look.

Frugal Fall

2009-09-26T13:59:00.008-04:00

I got a call yesterday from my very close friend /-slash-/designer extraordinaire, and sister-at-heart, Rachel, from the White Sands Inn. Her cousin is getting married this November and her aunt is hosting the rehearsal dinner. She is about as "frugal" as they come, bless her heart; and had the idea of placing stems of silk (fake!) fall leaves around the candles that will already be provided at their venue. She just wanted to know if I had any ideas of something they can do on the cheap themselves without breaking the bank...or even the change purse. And I slapped together a little inspiration:

Fall is the easiest time to find something really classy for your table without the expense. Mums are found on just about every corner, last for over a week when separated from the soil, and come in so many different colors. I bought small ones for my porch last year for less than $2.00 a pot! Bunch them in a earth-tone bowl and they are simplistic and beautiful (like shown above).

You can use any seed or stems from the trees outside, cutting the day of, up to a couple of days ahead of time. Just make sure to put your stems in water to keep fresh. My very favorite idea is the one above in the center. Use stems from a colorful tree and use a beautiful or even clear vase. Adding little "notes of love" to hang from the branches to the groom and bride-to-be would be a surprising little detail.

I love the idea of using natural items for place cards. Use dried leaves and gel-ink pens...even pears spray painted gold with a natural tag connected with the guests name would be chic. Also, any clear cylindrical vase with fall fruits placed in them would be a great idea.

Add a few forsythia stems to your table. They are bright yellow and bring a pop to the table. Hey, yellow is a fall color too, you know. And talk about cheap...they grow in my yard.

I think the best way to make a table interesting without spending a lot of money is using candles for the best lighting. Make sure you incorporate different heights of items for interest, and don't forget your linens! Even a runner or bold napkin will bring contrast and fun.

SU-WEET!

2009-08-18T15:07:00.016-04:00

I am so excited to see that white cakes are making a comeback in weddings! First of all, I am a HUGE fan of white in general. I would have an entire house decorated in white if I could. I'm in love with the classicism and understated style of a white cake. And nothing can say that better than the pic below...

Hello! Epitome of style herself with a white wedding cake. Enough said.

White cakes used in summer weddings really pop to the eye of your guests as they have a cool, crisp quality to them. In spring weddings or fall weddings a small burst of color against the white fondant or buttercream gives you a clean slate to display your color scheme. Also, the beautiful eyelet detail now being used for white cakes can give a wonderful couture look to your reception.

For a southern or beach wedding, try a coconut cake like the one below:

Most of all I love white cakes for winter weddings. Check out the "chrysanthamum" cake below, or even the meringue detailed cake as well. How festive are those?
Or even a "mod" cake that resembles snowballs:

Even in these days of brides striving to do something unique in desserts there are options that are delicate and clean and just scream seamless detail such as these small bite sized cakes or even small white cakes as place settings:

Ok, now have I converted everyone to white? How about now? Now?

Bizarre Post Mishap?

2009-08-11T16:15:00.001-04:00

Something happened to my posts since January and all of my other settings on here. I think it happened when I changed the format! Oh well...starting over can be good sometimes, right??