Blissique

Fashionistas' Black Book

2011-04-18T06:00:00.006+04:00

Are you a fashionista?
According to Urban Dictionary a fashionista is:

A person devoted to fashion clothing, particularily unique or high fashion.

A person not to be called a fashionista would be someone who obsessivly follows trends. REAL fashionistas do not believe in trends.

If these definitions fit you,we found the right blog to visit.

Run by an Italian entrepreneur with an exceptional taste and very well grounded,Veronica Lapasini,www.shoppingdesire.com is THE right place to find out what's hot and rocks in the international fashion world.You can read it either in Italian or in English.
What's the main difference between the majority of fashion blogs and this one?
First of all,it's showing only what's really "wearable",even if you are not 6 ft tall and ridiculously skinny.All the showcased pieces are intended for the regular,beautiful,nice women in the real world.

Picture courtesy of BCBG MAX AZRIA via Shoppingdesire.com

Besides the catwalks' shots,you have the worldwide coolest stores featured too...all the ones that lucky Veronica has the chance to visit in person.

All Star Flagship Store in Soho - NY - Picture courtesy of Shoppingdesire.com

Shoppingdesire.com is an invaluable tool for real shopping too.Either online...

http://www.shoppingdesire.com/en/2011/03/shopping-desire-e-yoox-acquista-on-line/

or off-line!The blog has an interesting and updated outlets' international map for who's on the go.

http://www.shoppingdesire.com/en/outlet/

This sounds to be an editorial,but our readers know that simply it's not our style.We're excited about it and we want to share this with you.
We're deeply convinced that women feel better in their own skin when they are well dressed(without breaking the bank!) and well-groomed.Also,we know that we enjoy entertaining being at our best.
You had just a sneak peek on the blog,but for more interesting topics and pictures visit Veronica and her team at www.shoppingdesire.com.

A Rustic Southern Wedding- Part 2

2011-04-15T06:00:00.010+04:00

In this wedding the most interesting accent is ... the potluck!Family and friends contributed to the celebration bringing their favorite dishes.

A vendor at their local Farmer’s Market provided buckets of flowers the day of the wedding. Moms, sisters and girlfriends fashioned bouquets the morning of the wedding.

Three simple round cakes set on a cake tier with colorful paper garland and flowers encircling it.

Hannah:
"My favorite memory by far is our first dance. The sun was just beginning to set and cast a warm orange glow over the field and barn. We ran out of time to rehearse a dance, but when the band started to play the waltz, Chas knew exactly what to do and I was happy to follow. I had no idea my dress would twirl out so beautifully but was so excited it did! In that moment it hit me: I just married the most wonderful man in the world and we will have a beautiful life together!"

Finally,a quiz: how much did this amazing W day cost?You won't believe it...a bit less than $20.000.

Excellent job,Hannah and Chas!

Credits:

Courtesy of Southern Weddings

Photography by: Alea Moore

A Rustic Southern Wedding - Part I

2011-04-11T06:00:00.005+04:00

If you are wondering how a real American Country Southern Wedding looks like,this post is for you!
Hannah and Chas celebrated their W day on their family property,in North Carolina.The bride was not on a big budget,but she wisely used her good taste creating a day to remember.

Starting from the dress,she had a Myelina replica of the iconic open-back monique Lhullier "Scarlett" and added personal touches,such as her groom's grandmothers' sixty year old wedding dress buttons sewn onto her dress.She opted for riding boots and allowed her bridesmaids to choose their own vitage-inspired frocks.

Unique, outside-the-box, comfortable are the three adjectives for Hannah to describe her wedding.

Hannah:

"The southern tradition we included in our wedding was ...potluck!! Not traditional for weddings these days, but standard fair for other celebrations. We decided to give it a try, and it was THE best wedding food we, and most of our guests, had ever enjoyed. The bluegrass band, hay bale seating, and use of our old barn and wraparound porch made for a particularly Southern wedding. We had no wedding planner and no big budget. We allowed our family and friends, many of which are talented artists, to provide personal touches. "

Hay bales as an altar... are cool!

...the reception's details in the next chapter of this wonderful wedding!

Credits:

Courtesy of Southern Weddings

Photography by Alea Moore

A spring Wedding in Southern France - 2

2011-04-09T04:08:00.000+04:00

Florence and Eric leave the church for their first trip as husband and wife.A romantic vintage convertible is the backdrop for their toast.

A short break from the crowd is important to understand and enjoy these unforgettable moments.

Joy.

The relaxed yet chic reception is held in the Southern France countryside.A casual "al fresco" lounge is set in the garden.

The classic table setting chart.It's almost disappeared in favor of modern and original ones,but it's still an effective and elegant way to show your guests their way.

Le Livre D'Or...guests can leave their messages to the new couple and enjoy a treat.

White wooden letters with the bride and groom's initials,are a nice decoration.

The color palette is simple.Beige,white and the pastel colors of the garden flowers.

Natural linen bags with traditional Italian almond confetti for each guest.

Other budget-friendly solutions.If you are celebrating a garden wedding,you don't need complicated decorations.Print out your own table signs and shop stores for inexpensive table accessories that could blend harmoniously together.

Round tables for guests and a rectangular table for the couple and the immediate family members.This table becomes the focal point of the room thank to the nice chandelier and the central position.

In an intimate celebration there's time to play with friend,relax and laugh.

A delicious mille-feuilles gateau surrounded by flowers.

Félicitations. Nous vous souhaitons à tous les deux tout le bonheur du monde.

Credits:

Wedding Dress by Delphine Manivet

Pictures courtesy of Studio Cabrelli - Paris

A spring wedding in Southern France - Chapter I

2011-03-14T20:40:00.005+04:00

Spring is in the air...and freshness is the right word to describe Florence and Eric's wedding.

The airy dress.Off-white,strapless and with delicate lace embellishments.

Florence's dream is a simple,pastoral and intimate wedding.

Florence is wearing a stunning creation of Delphine Manivet,a French Stylist.Bohemienne Chic...and the bride is so beautiful that she doesn't even require an up do.Natural make-up is the perfect complement for this outfit.

The bride's bouquet:roses in delicate pink hues and ivy,an original arrangement.


An ancient church in the South of France,not far from Cannes, is the romantic ceremony's backdrop.

Garden flowers are the only decorations inside the church.Less is more.

Love is in the air!

Another view of the church.If the ceremony is hosted in an ancient building,let the history talk for you.The crystal chandelier,the paintings,the vaulted ceilings...Flowers arrangements are only on the altar and along the aisle.

The suggestive catholic ceremony.

Petal flowers in a wicker basket are ready to shower the new couple.

These first few moments after the ceremony are the most precious ones and these pictures are memories for years to come.

A vintage convertible car is the transportation chosen by the newlyweds to reach the reception venue.

The reception's details are waiting for you in the next chapter of this romantic spring wedding.

Credits:

Wedding Dress by Delphine Manivet

Pictures courtesy of Studio Cabrelli - Paris

An Officer and a Gentleman

2011-02-21T07:00:00.001+04:00

This is the story of a special treasure hunt.
Michelle Cross documented it with her pictures and she's telling us what happened...clue by clue.

"When Joe left the house on Saturday morning, Jill was under the impression her beau would only be gone for a half hour or so. She began making breakfast, french toast, but was soon stopped by the knock at the front door. When she opened the door to find her neighbor standing with a red rose and a card, the confusion set in."

"After being told she had an hour to get ready, Jill headed out to the nearby lake where she was to find rose – and clue – number two. After a row boat ride across the lake and an obstacle course challenge, she was given her second rose by Joe’s fellow Marine before being directed to the National Marine Corps Museum. It was here that Jill realized she needed to prepare her mind, and her body, for the marathon she was about to begin"

"What she thought was a quick trip to the lake had now turned into a day full of physical challenges, relationship trivia, and lots and lots of roses. From the museum Jill was sent to the Kennedy Center, the White House, the Haupt Fountains, the Washington Monument, the Starbucks on H Street, the Korean, WWII, and Vietnam memorials, and then, finally, the Lincoln Memorial."

"If you lost count, that makes twelve roses, twelve challenges, and twelve Marines in their dress blues that Jill had to find.

If you haven’t had the chance to experience a man in uniform in public, you should know that they draw quite the crowd. During the two and a half hours we were waiting for Jill to find her roses, the boys had little more than a five minute break from tourist after tourist asking for pictures."

We can't add anything but that any girl we know would be pretty envious!

Credits:

Pictures and Story courtesy of Michelle Cross

Bold Details

2011-02-18T07:00:00.012+04:00

This wedding is a fusion between classic style and bold accents .It starts from a classic scheme and gets enriched by strong colors,original materials and innovative designs.

Something blue...I DO in blu Swarovsky under the bride's shoes is a fancy detail.

Black,white and crystals are playing their roles at the ceremony.The black runway is embellished by an elegant petals' arabesque.

"Al fresco" stylish lounge with a red touch.

The groom and his wedding party,in black and white.

Accents have a strong personality.

The perfect backdrop for the "I Do" moment:a garden arch decorated with hanging crystals and white chiffon.

At the reception,red becomes the main character in the palette.Laces and doilies,in black and white,give a gentle touch to the tables.

Feathers and red roses centerpieces are evoking a subtle victorian boudoir theme.

The bride's bouquet is another example of eclectic design.

Jaimy and Andy.

Credits:

Pictures courtesy of Dana Grant Photography

S. Valentine inspiring engagement session

2011-02-14T06:00:00.001+04:00

What's more appropriate for today to feature a glam photo shoot with a beautiful couple and great inspiring ideas?

Angel wings and the arch... this is a real Love Goddess.

Red "be mine" bunting! Cute and fun.

These pictures are sexy yet sophisticated.

This is another great idea: red paper hearts.They could be used instead of the petals to shower the new couple.

Vania + Christine,the stylists of this session: "We styled the entire shoot, from clothing to props (we actually made the bow and arrow, sweets, scroll, paper hearts etc). With our vintage frame cake-stand we wanted to inspire brides to think outside of the box and incorporate quirky inexpensive details. We thought that both the message in a bottle and the cootie catchers would be good inspiration as a different wedding favor."

Credits:

Styling and pictures: SimplyBloom Photography

Courtesy of Green Wedding Shoes

Britain meets France - Chapter 2

2011-02-11T07:00:00.000+04:00

Jane and Craig's wedding continues with a stunning reception at Salons Des Amerique in Paris.

The color palette is based on a sage green that plays with hues of white,then few discreet accents are added here and there.

Chiavari chairs in clear acrylic are a modern touch and almost disappear at first sight,enhancing the overall decor of the magnificent salon.

Kids have their own table,elegant and practical,to join the party.

When the environment is so opulent,the overall decor must keep a neutral and gentle tone.It has to be there without disturbing the architecture,creating cohesion between antique and modern elements,history and contemporaneity.

Candles everywhere are giving the extra touch to the perfect and round warm light already flooding the room.

Even babies have their right to party!

The groom's cake resembles a sand castle.

And its presentation is a show!

THE cake.Interesting and unexpected edible architecture.

And they lived happily ever after...

Credits:
Venue: Les Salons France Amérique" in Paris
Wedding Planning: Fête in France
Photography by Studio Cabrelli - Paris

Britain meets France - Chapter 1

2011-02-09T09:58:00.000+04:00

Jane and Craig are British but they wanted to celebrate their special day in the most romantic City of the world:Paris.Nude look for these stunning Louboutin shoes.There's nothing better than the famous red-lacquered sole that is the famous designer's signature.

Groosmen wearing original black hats are waiting for the bride,who's making her grand entrance on this magnificent staircase.

The wedding ceremony is held at the top of the staircase on a magical stage.

The bride is incredibly elegant.Her dress is perfect for a civil ceremony and for the uber-chic reception that follows.

Simple white orchards are ornating the backdrop.This place is so architecturally magnificent that doesn't require any extra special treat.

The bridesmaids are wearing taupe shiny silk dresses and an elegant fur covering their shoulders is appropriate for a winter formal ceremony.

The choir.

In these shots there's nothing but happiness.

The wedding party is heterogeneous because the couple decided to play with the souls,not with the even numbers.

As we said to the wonderful French photographer who sent us this wedding,Maria Cabrelli,we receive many pictures from all over the world.However these ones are probably the most stunning we have ever seen.The quintessential romanticism.

This fairytale continues in the next chapter with a sumptous reception.Stay with us!

Credits:

Venue:Les Salons France Amerique in Paris

Wedding planning by Fete in France

Photography courtesy of Studio Cabrelli

The cutest thing...

2011-02-04T06:44:00.000+04:00

This table setting is perfect for a little girl birthday party.The buttons are the original theme.Invitations play with delicate grey and baby pink.

The christmas ornaments can be reused as a focal point,hung on the chandelier.

Button cupcake lollipops,hanging cookie buttons and a fluffy cake.

Other shaped cookies with white icing and pink buttons...

And super cute favors!

Credits:
Styling by Lauren at Crave.Indulge.Satisfy.
Courtesy of Amy Atlas

Romantic Music Notes

2011-02-04T06:30:00.001+04:00

My junk could be your treasure.It very true,isn't it?

Here a creative lady,Livy from the blog A Field Journal, is transforming old music paper into stylish paper cones for a wedding.

Materials:

1. Paper punch While cutting shapes freehand is an alternative if you’re only planning to make a small number of cones, making them in larger quantities is much simplified by the use of a paper punch. The one shown is from the Martha Stewart Crafts line. For a variation you might consider alternate shapes – like leaves, flowers, etc.
2. Vintage sheet music Old papers with music or text lend a true vintage feel to this craft – they can be found at flea markets, thrift stores, yard sales or etsy.com.

3. Tacky Glue (for adhering butterflies) I used Aleene’s Tacky glue; sturdy and fast drying enough to keep the butterflies “perched” on a narrow fold for the three dimensional look. Keep in mind this glue is not acid free – so if you are planning to keep your craft for a long period of time that is something to consider.

4. Glitter
5. Scissors
6. Clothespin (helpful, but optional)
7. White Glue (for adhering glitter – I usually find it’s better to work with a thinner glue)

Directions:

1. Roll one sheet of paper into a cone shape, gradually working with it to get it to taper off to a point. Glue with a thin layer of tacky glue, using a clothespin to hold in place until dry.
2. If necessary, trim excess paper from cone and save scraps.
3. Punch or cut butterfly shapes from scrap paper and glue around rim of paper cone, overlapping for interest. To create three dimensional look, fold butterfly in half, apply a thin bead of glue along edge and hold in place for a few seconds until the glue begins to set.
4. When completely dry, thinly apply white glue to desired areas and dust with glitter. Let dry and enjoy!

Credits:

A Field Journal

Courtesy of Once Wed

Winter romantic inspirations

2011-01-31T06:00:00.010+04:00

Winter is not a classic wedding season.But photo shoots as the one we're featuring today could inspire brides to choose a cold month for their celebration.

Romantic highlights,from the serene natural setting to the gorgeous wedding gown,the coziness of the interiors and the vintage details.

A creative bouttoniere for the groom.

Here is the idea behind the shoot from one of the three creative stylists,Emily Steffen:

"We took our inspiration from the rustic barns that narrate the snowy Wisconsin country-side and combined it with the romantic event of Valentines day. With snowy trees, a romantic setting and a few vintage details…..this wedding would be described as vintage country romance"

"Our color palette was a play off of the traditional colors seen around Valentine’s Day with a twist towards the muted and vintage. We used soft dusty rose, cream, and camel colors and combined it with a brighter red and teal to bring in a punch."

"The rustic barn was a perfect backdrop of browns and worn textures against these colors in the snowy WI setting."

"Our tablescape was styled on an old barn-door that has been painted white and weathered for texture; a high-impact look for a very low price tag for the budget-friendly bride. We brought in elegance with the china and paired it with the vintage antique store find of the pink cups and saucers."

"Mason jars added interest to the sea of cream colored candles floating down the center of the table with a camel hued linen table runner. My favorite element on the table was the knitted hearts at each place setting that also served as a potpourri drawer freshener for each guest to take home.Our designer, Dena, styled each place setting with mini wine bottles highlighting the custom wine label for the bride and groom. "

An original version of the classic dessert table...the "Pie Table"!

Credits:

Event Design by Bethany Hway of b*spoke blog

Photography by Emily Steffen Photography

Styled by by Bethany Hway, Dena Swenson and Emily Steffen

Paper elements by Dena Swenson

Floral by Ginger Floral Design

Bouquets by Jillians Etsy Store

Bridal attire by Che Bella

Grooms attire second hand/vintage

Hair+Makeup by Lindsay Schlotte

Location: Private residence in Hammond, WI

Tres Chic

2011-01-28T07:36:00.000+04:00

In this Parisian photo shoot by Jubilee events the sophistication is in every detail.

From the unusual beauty of the French model Segolene,to the breathtaking view of the City,we have all the elements of a dream wedding inspiration here.

Stunning calligraphed invitation.

Amazing table setting!The pure white tablecloth and the beige flower garland,the simple fresh flower centerpiece are substantial and elegant.

A gorgeous idea for an unexpected wedding cake:adding macaroons on the side.

The flower embellishment is the same as in the flower garland over the table to keep elements' continuity.The lace chair cover is another beautiful idea.

A subtle love message left on a champagne glass...

Credits:

Photography: Robert and Kathleen Photographers / Fashion & Model Styling: Beth Chapman, The White Dress by the Shore / Event Design, Planning & Coordination: Jubilee Events / Event Planning: Parisian Events / Gown: Modern Trousseau / Jewelry: Beth Chapman, The White Dress by the Shore / Makeup & Hair: Masafumi Matsuda / Rentals: Rentals Unlimited / Tableware: Noel Collet / Shoes: Vouelle / Headpieces: Twigs and Honey / Paper Cake Topper Menus and Escort Cards: Posh Paperie / Lace Paper and Floral Garlands: kate’s paperie / Floral Design: Catherine Muller / Tuxedo: Tuxego / Calligraphy: Elizabeth Porcher Jones / Cuff Links / Cake: Sugar Plum Cake Shop / Ruffled Tulle Necklace: Miss Ruby Sue / Gown Cleaning and Shoe Preservation: Madame Paulette
Courtesy of Jubilee Events

Stylish and sexy lingerie

2011-01-24T06:00:00.000+04:00

Behind the scenes...sexy and stylish lingerie for the contemporary bride.Something blue is a must.

This Tiffany blue is young and cool.Precious lace is elegant and classic.

If you want to try something different,lavender is the color to choose.

Steamy black...

Another idea is this vintage pink,for the bride who loves the classic elegance.

Pearls are the perfect match.

Credits:

Concept + garters: The Garter Girl
Photography: Studio Juno
Lingerie: Coup de Foudre
Styling: Shelly Steitz
Dresses + location: Punk Rock Bride
Location: Taylor Gourmet
Courtesy of United with love

A natural wedding in the Mountains - Chapter 2

2011-01-21T06:00:00.003+04:00

The wonderful wedding in the mountains of the New Hampshire continues and today we're featuring the reception's details.

On the grounds of the farm a classy Sperry tent is installed.

A blackboard is an unusual menu'.

The gorgeous chandelier was created by Sarah's father.

The sketchbook as the guest book, with a hand drawn toad on the cover to represent the venue: Toad Hill Farm

Glass jars and straws are keeping the atmosphere informal and cozy.

Lavender sachets are nice and romantic favors.

Wooden table signs are an original eco-detail!

Bite-size pies are meaningful,as Sarah says:"Before my husband was my husband, I wooed him with home-made fruit pies. We wanted to serve something that meant something to us. Cherry pie is our favorite!"

Another favor idea:tiny honey jars.

Credits:

Photography: Simply Bloom Photography
Wedding planner: In the Pink Ink
Ceremony/Reception Site: Toad Hill Farm
Flowers: Emily Herzig Floral Studio

Invitations and favors: hand crafted by bride
Live music: High Range Band
Wedding Dress: Grace by Amy Michelson
Groom's apparel: J. Crew

Courtesy of: SimplyBloom Photography

A natural wedding in the mountains - Chapter 1

2011-01-17T05:39:00.000+04:00

This wedding is wonderful...the breathtaking setting of the New Hampshire Mountains,the sweet smiles of the bride and the groom,the elegant simplicity of the details...we had to many pictures to choose from,so we decided to dedicate two posts to it.

Sarah is a beautiful bride...she is gorgeous with her natural make-up,the flower garland and the simple dress.

The color palette is composed by hues of cream, blush, ivory and shell.

The idea behind the wedding is to live the nature at its fullest,but in a romantic way.There's a bit of shabby chic in every detail.

A wooden bench,made by Sarah's father,is decorated with garden flowers.Wooden benches are provided for guests as well.

A very special "ring cushion".

The circle of white petals = eternity.

All the bridesmaids dresses were purchased on Etsy.com.They are all different,according to the ladies' personalities,but they keep a cohesive look thank to the shawls and the colors.

Each lady is carrying a different bouquet.

A bike and a happy bride.Sarah,you are beautiful!

Credits:

Photography: Simply Bloom Photography
Wedding planner: In the Pink Ink
Ceremony/Reception Site: Toad Hill Farm
Flowers: Emily Herzig Floral Studio

Invitations and favors: hand crafted by bride
Live music: High Range Band
Wedding Dress: Grace by Amy Michelson
Groom's apparel: J. Crew

Courtesy of: SimplyBloom Photography

Sweet- Marie

2011-01-14T06:53:00.000+04:00

Sweet Marie,today's featured photo shoot, is a modern day interpretation of Marie Antoniette.

Julie,the stylist:"The feel of the shoot was equal parts opulent elegance, glam and whimsy, complete with over the top lush centerpieces with ostrich feathers and hanging crystals. Antique crystal chandeliers gave the room’s powder blue, ivory and dusty pink color palette a warm glow. And, of course, no Marie Antoinette tribute would be complete without a little sweet indulgence."

"One DIY element would be the cake. We took a plain white cake, added fresh soft pink roses left over from our centerpieces, along with some white fabric flowers (that happen to look very real). As a cake topper, we used a little white bird with an ostrich feather tail. This is made by an Etsy seller that we sell at Duchess of Devonshire. It gave the cake just enough punch while still being subtle and classic."continues Julie.

"Strawberry Milk has a lot of cool props which we let our clients use, many of which are antique/vintage such as the silver vintage Moroccan sweetheart chairs, the antique birdcage, crystal candelabra on the dessert table. Other props of ours include the white peacock, the cakes, etc. The bride’s accessories, jewelry and headband are from Duchess of Devonshire."

Credits:

Sweets, props & styling: Strawberry Milk Event Design Studio
Venue: Tidewater Inn
Photography: David Hartcorn Photography
Floral Design: Petals on Talbot
Rentals: Rentals to Remember
Favors: Oh My Chocolate
Bridal Gown: Mary’s Bridal
Accessories: Duchess of Devonshire

Courtesy of United with Love

An artistic wedding

2011-01-10T06:00:00.000+04:00

This is a pretty unique contemporary wedding.Art is all around...and certainly is in the style that Lauren,the bride,put in this celebration.

Lauren:"Our wedding was inspired at first by my wedding dress, which was based off Leslie Caron’s finale dress in the movie Gigi, 1958. Since the movie was set in turn-of-the-20th century Paris we wanted to channel that sensibility into our wedding space. We also love Charles and Ray Eames, American and European Modernity, French New Wave Cinema, House Industry Typography and Contemporary art. This began to take on a schizophrenic mix of ideas so to tone it down we began an inspiration board to edit our imagery and isolate a color palette."

"My husband Jacob Melchi is an artist and manages the studio for the artist Charles Arnoldi who offered us his studio space for the wedding. This was the perfect backdrop for our inspiration board to come into fruition. Being trained as an architect at Sciarc I was inspired to design and help build our Chuppah to bring in a contemporary feel to the ceremony."

"The most memorable moment of our wedding for me was the moment Jacob and I signed our Ketubah with Rabbi Leder (Wilshire Boulevard Temple) who we are very close family friends with, my sister Michelle and Jacob’s brother Nick. That was the moment we realized we were really married, it was magical. We were holding each other’s hands so tight. Both our family and closest friends were surrounding us at that point to witness. The rest of the wedding felt like a beautiful performance for the rest of the guests."

"We brought in incredibly talented event designers, artists, graphic designers and event coordinators to help us flesh out all our ideas into reality for the rest of the space. Jacob’s artwork was hanging on the walls in the dining area as well as a collaboration with Bash, Please and the artists Kevin Appel and Sandy de Lissovoy who used our save the date posters designed by Jessica D’Elena to create paper geometric patterns across vast easels."

"Bash, Please bought in a touch of Paris with rented furniture from Found and Modernity by suggesting we project Oskar Fischinger 1947 abstract animated films on our walls. Our love for typography was seen in text pieces on furniture and flowers containers."

Origami made with colored paper and pictures are incredible!

The triumph of colors,in the paintings,in the flowers and in every single detail.

Credits:

Photography: Will Keeler

Event + Floral Design: Bash, Please

Event Planner: Red 25 Events

Venue: Charles Arnoldi Studio, Venice California (Private and not for rental)

Wedding Dress: Custom design by Esther Smith 310-306-7927

Hair: Dena Ohara

Makeup: Emma Burton

Bridesmaid Dress: Amsale

Hairpieces: The Headband Shoppe

Groom Suit: Haspel

Guest Gift bags: Maptote

Chuppah Design: Lauren Rosenbloom , Chuppah Fabrication: MRMc, LLC Dan Riley and Katsumi Moroi Rentals: Classic Party Rentals and Found Vintage Rentals

Invitations/Paper Goods: Design: Jessica D’Elena

Printing: Michael Schwartz

Calligraphy: Hillary Williams

Cake: Sweet & Saucy Bake Shop

Music: DJ Thomas J. Stanton

Catering: Savore, Cuisine

Lighting: Images By Lighting

Security: Premiere Group International

Sound: No Static

Valet: Premiere Valet

Linens: La Tavola Linens

Courtesy of Green Wedding Shoes

Winter Inspiration

2011-01-07T06:00:00.000+04:00

Keywords: winter,bright red,tiffany blue,contemporary,fun and romantic.The quintessential idea of a perfect table setting for this season.

The stylists of this shoot:"We wanted to create a table-scape that was the abstract interpretation of the holidays. While brainstorming to create something unique and inspiring, we thought of cardinal birds, cranberries, bows, and lots of glitter. From there we were further inspired by Cinderella & Enchanted."

"The napkins tied as bows are a simple way to add a little drama to a holiday-inspired wedding table-scape. They are also reminiscent of luscious wrapping bows on Christmas gifts. The banner made up of two cardinal birds was directly inspired by the Disney fairytale; in particular, the scene when Cinderella is dressed and adorned by birds. We also loved the idea of the two birds as love birds”.

"The stationery was created by the ever so talented Kate Holland of Ruby and Willow. She sent us her incredible creations all the way from New Zealand, and the long trip was so worth it. We felt the stationery brought a contemporary feel to the shoot, and really presented the elements in such a lovely and unique way. We can’t brag enough about this stationery, the hand-drawn designs, modern shapes, and whimsical aspects made up a stunning wintery collection."

"The centerpieces were glamorous and simple. Tall glass containers were rich with fresh cranberries and crystals! Other simple and inspiring details we created included: hot chocolate mugs rimmed with crushed peppermint chocolate. Icy blue hot chocolate stirrers and a love-bird sized red velvet cake iced with ice blue frosting."

We love every single detail of this table setting!

Credits:

Photography:SimplyBloom Photography

Styling and design:SimplyBloom Photography and Lia Capri from “Bride @ Heart“ Stationery and Inspiration board: Kate Holland of Ruby and Willow

Courtesy of SimplyBloom Photography

The subtle elegance of beige

2011-01-03T06:00:00.000+04:00

Let's begin the 2011 with a lovely celebration.Stacy and Paul got married in a farm and they created a unique style that we love to share with you.
A vintage touch,the elegance in every single detail and the warmth of the good country things create all together a wedding to remember!

From Stacy, “We wanted our wedding to be unique, to be crafted from our own ideas. Paul + I had fun going to flea markets together and finding things we could incorporate into the wedding.The most memorable (and terrifying) moment of the wedding day was walking down the aisle. After all the anticipation of the planning, the journey to find Paul and being surrounded by all those I loved was overwhelming and amazing. Paul and I thought that the ceremony was the part that we wanted to get over with so we could party with family and friends, but as we began planning the ceremony it became the most important part of the day.”

"We decided to forgo the traditional ceremony with things like the unity candle, and instead did a tribute to our grandmothers who have passed. Our mom’s read words of advice that our grandmothers had written when they were alive and it was a very special and touching moment."

"We couldn’t spend a lot of money, so instead I spent a lot of time crafting everything. Although it was months and months of DIY projects, I enjoyed every moment.

A lot of the decor for the wedding we purchased with the intent of using in our home after the wedding was over. So much money goes into planning and paying for a wedding and it felt like a shame to just get rid of everything once the night was over. The frames we used in the gazebo are now hung in our bedroom, the wooden quotes of our grandmothers are now decorations in the living room. It is really neat to still be surrounded from memories of the wedding in our home."

"We opted for a beautiful cake from Sweet & Saucy in Long Beach. To save on the cost of a cake to serve everyone, we opted for a smaller cake to serve 50 guests and then supplemented with different individual small bakery bites. All the flower decorations were done by me and my maid of honor in the garage a few days before the wedding. We purchased the flowers wholesale ad arranged them in mason jars. It really fit well with the whole vintage theme of our wedding and really helped to save on costs."

Stacy's advices to other brides: "Save money where you can. Weddings grow out of control real quick so pick and choose where to spend your money and where to save.Stalk blogs and get as much inspiration as you can but make your wedding your own. It is your chance to show your family and friends exactly who you are as a couple. Good luck and enjoy the journey! It’s a fast trip but an amazing one."

Painted signs and cards are wonderful ideas!White cotton flowers are original and elegant.An old suitcase becomes a stylish container.

Guests can leave a message using the typing machine...

Books and pencils are scattered around the tables.And the beige tablecloths are making a real statement in their own simplicity.

This dessert table is gorgeous!

Credits:

Photographer: Jeff Wallace
Event Planning: Jesi Haack Weddings
Cake Designer: Sweet & Saucy
Floral Designer: JL Designs (Carissa designed the bouquets)
Caterer: 24 Carrots
Reception Venue: Red Horse Barn
Courtesy of Green Wedding Shoes

Easy Fall Centerpieces

2010-11-12T06:00:00.004+04:00

A roundup on the latest inspirations for fall centerpieces.

Take a step away from traditional fall colors and try a metallic palette. For a shiny silver centerpiece, arrange mercury glass candlesticks on a silver serving tray. Spray-paint small pumpkins and gourds with metallic silver paint and place on top of the candlesticks. To add candles, hollow-out the center of each pumpkin just wide enough to securely hold the candle upright.

This elegant blend of pumpkins and candlesticks makes a handsome buffet backdrop -- or use a scaled-down version for the center of the Thanksgiving table. The silver pumpkins in the mix are real ones spray-painted silver and, in some cases, carved out at the top to hold candles.

A dish of fruit, real pumpkins, pears, and fall leaves line up along the center of this holiday table. The graduated display (high in the center of the table, low at the ends) is a nice way to stretch a centerpiece along the full length of a rectangular table. The peak of the centerpiece, a pumpkin created from orange mum flowers, becomes the focal point.

What better way to celebrate the Thanksgiving harvest feast than by creating a centerpiece using gorgeous green vegetables. To make the asparagus- and green bean-wrapped candles, stretch two sturdy rubber bands around a white pillar candle, then insert vegetable stalks underneath the band. Cover the bands with a circle of satin ribbon and decorate the platter with a few white mums and coffee berry sprigs.

Another view of the previous centerpiece shows the place settings, white tablecloth , and pewter cups filled with tiny white mums. Your guests will be enthralled!

Elevated cranberry spheres create a colorful arrangement. Cut toothpicks in half. Skewer one cranberry onto the end of each toothpick (without sticking it all the way through). Poke cranberry-laden toothpicks into a crafts foam ball. Cover each foam ball completely with cranberries. Place the balls on glass, silver, or mercury glass candlesticks. Add more fall panache by weaving curly grape vines through the arrangement of cranberry topiaries, or sprinkle acorns around the bases.

With a straw wreath for a base, this pomegranate and prairie grass ring makes a pretty frame for a field of candlesticks dancing center stage.

Rich plum and amethyst purples are a striking addition to traditional fall hues. Try a purple table runner, lined with elegant glass bottles, orange accessories, and sprigs of greenery . Incorporate more of the hue with clear purple glasses -- inexpensive melamine ones will do the trick.

Dried ears of corn and shocks of wheat pay homage to Thanksgiving's rustic roots -- but can be artfully arranged to suit the modern table. Here, dried wheat shocks are inserted into the sides of a cylindrical piece of florist's foam and topped with colorful dried ears of corn. The arrangement is placed on a footed compote for elegant elevation.

For a seasonal vase, cut off the top of a butternut squash (about 1/4 of the squash height) and scoop out the flesh. Add water and arrange dahlias, sunflowers, zinnias, or other autumnal flowers in the vase. For a Thanksgiving table, line several squash vases along the center of the table, setting some on footed plates for height variations.

Create a table runner using camel-color wool flannel or felt, cutting to size with a pair of pinking shears. Lay coordinating ribbons along the center of the runner and secure with double-stick tape or a dab of fabric glue, if necessary. Set a compote or cake stand in the center and scatter leaves, mini pumpkins, and pears down the runner.

Purchase small grapevine rings to use as a base, or make your own by bending a piece of coat hanger into a circle. Next, wire on small stems of berries, leaves, and flowers using thin wire wound tightly around the base. Use fresh flowers for a one-time-use decoration. Or find pretty silk blooms for a longer-lasting design.

Seasonal rosehips are the highlight of this elegant wreath that hovers just above the table by satin ribbons. Start with a grapevine wreath base, and wire on rosehips, late-blooming roses, and other seasonal blossoms, berries, leaves, and colorful twigs.

With one pillar candle elevated, others remain on the tabletop near glass votive holders, creating a glow of light for a Thanksgiving dinner. Airy stems fill twin pots embellished with tangerines and nuts for color.

Font:courtesy of BHG

A Fall Wedding

2010-11-10T06:00:00.000+04:00

Kara and Seth's wedding took place on a private ranch near Los Olivos,CA.

They used decorations that were very true to the area.And they re-used everything they found on the ranch's grounds...their own way.

Stylish engraved pumpkins... and the truck customised with the couple's names!

The surrounding nature is setting the perfect scene.

The barn is dressed up for the party.Honey jars as favors.

This is the summary of countryside glamour.Impeccable rustic table settings.The color palette of chocolate brown and mint green is amazing.

Lanterns,fruit,pumpkins and pheasant feathers are creating suggestive centerpieces.

Kara and Seth are a beautiful and modern couple.These pictures are amazing.Natural,romantic with the perfection of fashion shots.

Natural elements are used all over the place.Simple accessories become part of the decor.

This is pumpkin art!

The menu on the blackboard and the traditional sweets with a deconstruct design are giving an homemade feeling.

The first dance together as husband and wife.

Credits:

Photography by Ken Kienov

Courtesy of Green Wedding Shoes

Thanksgiving Dessert Table

2010-11-08T06:00:00.000+04:00

As promised,let's start thinking about Thanksgiving day.

The amazing Amy Atlas is back with her latest work.This scrumptious dessert table is full of yummy and creative treats.

These turkey cookies are definitely...sweet!

Chocolate and Sugar dipped pears become stylish treats.

Original Maple leaf candy pops.

Acorn cookies and hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks to warm up after a walk in the woods.

Gorgeous mini Mayflower boats with marzipan pumpkins.

Rich pie.

Pilgrim's hat mini cupcakes.

Harvest cookie-pops!

Turkeys in chocolate version.Scarecrows cookies-on-sticks are funny and yummy.The hay-tastic centerpiece is the focal point of the table and is vertically balancing the display.

Credits:

Table Design: Amy Atlas Events & Amy Atlas Blog

Photography: Allan Zepeda for Mel Barlow Photography

Courtesy of HWTM

Scotland's romantic appeal

2010-11-01T06:00:00.005+04:00

Tony Marsh Photography / Highland
Country Weddings

With its wild and beautiful mountains, stunning lakes and atmospheric old castles, Scotland is a popular choice for an overseas wedding. Here you can make an entrance on a seaplane to tie the knot by a loch, dine next to roaring fires in a grand baronial hall, and even marry up a mountain if you so desire.

Natasha Honan, from Highland Country Weddings, explains the appeal: “The historic value is uppermost in peoples’ minds. How many countries can boast so many medieval castles? Also, many people have a Scottish family background that can go way back, and it is very romantic to get married in your country of origin even if it goes back several hundred years.”

Dalhousie Castle

Laws in Scotland mean you can marry pretty much marry anywhere if a minister or a Humanist celebrant deems it an acceptable location. But it is the romantic castles that are the biggest draw with Dalhousie, Balgonie, Urquhart and Eilean Donan Castle the most popular requests among her clients, says Natasha.

Dalhousie Castle has played host to the likes of Edward I and Mary Queen of Scots so it’s not short on history. With its fairytale turrets, it forms a dramatic backdrop for wedding photos, and for a pre-wedding dinner it has a delightful barrel vaulted dungeon restaurant.

The ruins of Urquhart Castle also provide a fabulous setting. Jutting out from the banks of Loch Ness, guests can entertain themselves trying to spot the famous monster that some still believe inhabits the lake while the bride and groom pose for photos.Edinburgh is home to Scotland’s most famous castle, and a wedding package here could also include a private viewing of the country’s Crown Jewels. Religious ceremonies are conducted in the 12th Century chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh.

Litu

There are many ways to make your wedding a really unusual experience that will fit in with the setting of an historic castle. Natasha notes, for example, that having your rings delivered by an owl is now in great demand.

No Scottish celebration would be complete without a piper but you can go one better than that. Kimmie Brown, from wedding planners Litu, says one of the most spectacular finales for a wedding is the ‘Beating Retreat’. “The groom asks the guests to go outside and then from out of the darkness comes a band of pipers and drummers. It’s an amazing sight,” says Kimmie.

Tony Marsh Photography / Highland
Country Weddings

As for what to wear, tartan adds an authentic touch, and so much the better if the groom wants to sport a kilt. “In times past there were rules about wearing the tartan connected with your clan but not today – the Scots wear their tartans with pride and are happy for others to do so,” says Kimmie.

Scotland is not short of traditions when it comes to weddings but some are more desirable than others. A sprig of heather in the bride's bouquet to bring luck is a nice touch, but in the lead up to the wedding the couple may find themselves at the hands of a ‘blackening’ where friends smear them with feathers, treacle, soot and flour!

Tina Lofthouse - London