Informal Bliss

To DIY or Not to DIY?...

2012-03-26T00:04:00.001-07:00

...that can be the burning question when you are planning a wedding--especially in this golden age of Pinterest and countless other sources brimming with creative do-it-yourself ideas and and how-to's. Given all of the possibilities out there, how do you decide when it's worth it to break out the craft supplies or hand it over to the professionals? Here, we weigh in on a few factors to consider when planning your wedding.

The Time vs. Money Factor

Doing things like invitations and flowers yourself can save you money and and free up your budget to spend in other areas (catering, dress, venue, etc.)...or can it? This is where it gets a little tricky.

At first it might seem like it's going to be cheaper and easier to just do it yourself, but when you factor in how much time it's going to take you (it ALWAYS takes longer than you think it's going to), what your time is worth per hour, and how much you'll need to invest in supplies and materials, DIY doesn't always save you money in the end.

Remember that whether it's your photographer, floral designer, wedding planner, or cake baker, the pros buy things in quantity, have access to materials and items you might not be able to buy, have already invested in the overhead, and because they are experienced and have a staff to call on, they can get the job done efficiently and beautifully. In the end, their price may not end up being much more than it will cost you to do-it-yourself.

The Creative Ability Factor

Not everyone is a Martha Stewart. Deep down we all know this, even though it can be hard to admit. While some projects might look simple (how hard can it be to throw flowers in a vase, right?), we more often than not find out through the DIY process that the pros are pros for a reason: they know what they're doing, they're good at it, and that's why they get paid to do it.

Looks can be deceiving when it comes to DIY tutorials, so it's a good idea to be realistic about your own (and your friends and family's if they've offered to help) creative abilities. It might just save your sanity.

The Stress Factor

Speaking of sanity, we all know that planning a wedding is a huge undertaking. It can be stressful for everyone involved, which is why we think it is important to carefully consider adding even more tasks to your to-do list. It might be tempting to recruit friends and family to help with projects, but be careful about over-burdening your guests and loved ones so much that they don't enjoy your special day. That goes for you, too!

The Uh-oh, this looks like *#$% Factor

...NOW what? What happens when a DIY project goes terribly wrong and you don't have time to fix it? You might end up calling on a professional anyway, and late in the game, there is no guarantee they will be available for hire, and if they are, it's going to cost you more than if you book their services well in advance. If you know you want it to be perfect, call on the pros from the get-go; the risk of getting it wrong might not be worth the small amount of money you'll save tackling the project yourself.

There may be other factors to consider when it comes to deciding whether to DIY or not to DIY, but the take home message is this: There is a time and place for doing things yourself, and it's important to be realistic about what you can comfortably take on.

It's Tux Time!

2012-03-15T20:56:00.000-07:00

From weddings and other events to prom and school formals, we can't forget about what the guys will wear. It's time to start thinking about tuxes and suits, ties and tails as we come into spring and the season for big events. Check out this post from last spring for a refresher on the topic of tuxes.

When it comes down to it, suits and tuxes are really pretty basic--but there are many ways to add your own personal style and tie in your theme (no pun intended!) if we're talking about dressing a wedding party. While the pretty lady wearing the dress (be it a prom or a wedding) takes center stage, the groom and groomsmen's attire is still very much a focal point during the festivities.

Don't forget that you can order your prom and wedding or other event flowers AND rent suits and tuxes right here in the store (311 Oak St., downtown Hood River!). We are a one-stop shop for all your special occasion needs -- stop by and see us to get your order going for the 2012 prom and wedding seasons!

Cards + Notes

2012-03-07T07:50:00.001-08:00

You've got the gift and the flowers--don't forget the card! We have a fun selection here in the store to make your shopping easy.

These ladies' skirts are the cutest fabric hankies.

Cards for any occasion!

Mary from Mari Bliss Boutique makes these cards right here in the shop. Because they are handmade, each one is unique!

Fresh Flowers at The Farm Stand!

2012-02-28T18:20:00.000-08:00

Our beloved neighborhood market, The Farm Stand, is open at it's shiny new location at 1009 12th Street in the heights in Hood River. We're excited because they have a lot more space to house their quality organic, local, and fresh produce, meats, seafood, and an array of other natural products and food items, and an expanded deli with seating.

We're also pleased to be working with The Farm Stand to offer our fresh flower wraps every week, right inside their new store--the perfect complement to the fixins' for a beautiful meal, or simply to spruce up your space!

Fresh flowers on the go, at The Farm Stand!

Check out this great new addition to the lower heights, and grab a gorgeous bouquet while you're there. We congratulate and wish The Farm Stand the best in their new location! Be sure to find them on Facebook for updates and specials.

Invitations and More!

2012-02-22T09:51:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year already -- wedding season will be in full swing before we know it, which raises the question: If you're getting married in 2012, have you picked out and ordered your wedding invitations yet?

It's never too early to cross this important task off your to-do list. Just about one year ago, we wrote a post about the invitations we carry here in the shop. We still carry these same invitations, and can work with you to order the style that's right for you.

Cherry Blossoms, from the Exclusive II Collection by Carlson Craft

Because Mari Bliss Boutique carries invitations from several different vendors, we can always find the best option for your budget and needs.

Elegant and timeless invitations from Monique Lhuillier

Naturally Ever After offers invitations made with recycled materials!

We've also got a cozy corner right here in the store to meet and talk about your upcoming wedding -- so come by, and stay awhile! You'll find lots of ideas and inspiration, and will feel good crossing things off that to-do list!

Flowers of a Different Kind For Your Valentine

2012-02-13T09:47:00.000-08:00

The most romantic day of the year is tomorrow...what are you getting for your Valentine?

We love, love, love Anenome in shades of love, arranged en masse with variegated greens.

Or how about something REALLY different this year, like these frilly Proteas? They make a big statement, and are long-lasting as they come (just like your love!).

Roses are always a hit, and we especially love them lined up above a tier of variegated tulips, with one yellow rose in the center for a fun twist!

And then there are Gerbs. Everyone loves Gerber daisies, they are just so happy, expressive, and fun. Plus they come in about a million colors and sizes, so the sky is the limit when it comes to arranging.

There is still plenty of time for Valentine's Day shopping, and we're open until 6:00 pm today and tomorrow!

Sweets For Your Sweet

2012-02-11T09:47:00.000-08:00

Chocolates are nice, but handmade toffee is even better! This toffee is the BEST we've ever tasted, hands down.

Mari Bliss Boutique has plenty of this delectable treat in stock for Valentine's Day. This hazelnut toffee is made right here in Oregon by Holm Made Toffee Company. It's freshly packaged and ready to go--perfect with a lovely bouquet of fresh-cut flowers!

We're open all weekend, Saturday 10 am - 4 pm, Sunday 12 - 4 pm, and Monday and Tuesday, Valentine's Day, from 10 am - 6 pm!

Wow! We Love These Wall Panels

2012-02-07T11:07:00.000-08:00

We've been wanting to share these fabulous wall panels for quite some time now! Made by the company Twelve Timbers, these panels are a fun way to spruce up and add some flair to any space.

They are kind of cool straight from the shipping container in a bare wood finish, but we also love them painted white (you already know how we feel about white!). You can, of course, paint them any color you fancy--which is part of what makes them so much fun!

What is also fun about these panels is how versatile they are. Use them to define or divide a space, such as a headboard above a bed.

As seen on Isabella and Max Rooms, featured on the Oregon Street of Dreams Home Tour

Painting the wall behind the panel a different color than the rest of the room is a great idea, providing depth and the illusion that the headboard is a standalone piece.

We have four different patterns in stock at Mari Bliss Boutique. Stop by the store to see them in person and talk to us about how you can incorporate them into your next design/remodel/rearrange project!

A New Idea For Bridesmaids Bouquets

2012-01-29T09:53:00.000-08:00

A few days ago, we mentioned we had some new wedding ideas up our sleeve. Here is another one we're quite chuffed about.

How about a kraft paper cone to hold bridesmaid's bouquets after the ceremony? We love this because--once again--it's simple and unique. It's a departure from traditional vase, and it allows the lovely bouquets to become part of the reception decor.

Stop by the shop for even more fun new ideas, and remember, we are booking consultations for the 2012 wedding season--it's never to early to start working out the details!

Skamania Lodge Wedding Show

2012-01-23T08:29:00.000-08:00

We recently attended the wedding show at Skamania Lodge in Stevenson. As always, it was a fun and successful event, and we love the opportunity to connect with brides-to-be and other vendors from the region.

It's also a perfect occasion to showcase new ideas we come up with at the shop. In addition to our table and bouquets, Lucy puts together several tables to display centerpiece, place setting, and linen ideas--all of which we can help brides with during their wedding consultation.

This table featured a round of wood--trés Pacific Northwest--used as a guest placeholder. It's rustic, it's easy, and it's unique.

We'll be featuring more wedding ideas from the show, so stay tuned!

Luxe Mountain Weddings, Featuring The Gorge

2012-01-16T08:33:00.000-08:00

Last week, we talked about how the Gorge is growing in popularity as a wedding destination for brides and grooms from all over the country. The premiere issue of the newly launched Luxe Mountain Weddings magazine featured a Gorge wedding called "Pretty in Pink". Here is a shot of the cover:

Lucy did the beautiful pink flowers for the wedding, the stunning photos can be seen on photographer Kimberly Kay's website.

Here are a few shots of the magazine spread:

Visit Luxe Mountain Magazine online, or stop by the shop to see the issue we have here! It's a beautiful magazine, and we are honored to be featured!

January Happenings

2012-01-11T12:56:00.000-08:00

We've been at it again! Painting things white and rearranging the store--why not, we say? We are pretty confident that white is where it's at this year; for us, it's Benjamin Moore's White Dove. It's a keeper.

Before we know it, wedding season will be in full swing around here, so we're getting the store ready.

Fresh and clean, this newly painted bookcase is part of our recently spruced-up area for wedding consultations.

Last fall, we painted an old door with chalkboard paint. It makes a great menu for our wedding services Menu!

Mari Bliss Boutique has a lot to offer when it comes to wedding planning!

Hood River was featured as a wedding destination in Luxe Mountain Magazine!

Hood River and the surrounding area is an increasingly popular wedding destination with brides and grooms from all over the country. We are proud to be a one-stop shop for all of your wedding planning needs!

We are excited for the upcoming wedding season in the Gorge. From flowers by Lucy's Informal Flowers to coordinator Mari-Beth Guenther of Gorge Events, and every detail in between from Mari Bliss Boutique, we can help you plan your big day from start to finish. If you're getting married in the Gorge, contact us to schedule a consultation in our store!

New Year, New Plants!

2012-01-06T11:37:00.001-08:00

In honor of the new year, bring some new life into your home! With the right pot, basket, or container plants add to any decor, help purify the air, and provide us with a little nature nurturing.

The Phalaenopsis orchid is always a looker! With proper care, blooms last for months.

We always have small succulents and tropicals in stock, great grouped together or solitary in a flashy silver pot!

With stunning foliage and exotic blooms, Cyclamen look great in any room.

Succulents in glass dishes - very chic!

Another view.

Anthirium bring a tropical vibe.

January is the perfect time to expand your collection of indoor plants! Lucy has several varieties in stock, with lots of fun containers to choose from and local Dirt Hugger Compost for repotting.

Out With the Old, In With the New!

2011-12-30T12:26:00.000-08:00

Before you put all of your christmas ornaments and holiday decor away for the season, stop by the shop and check out our Holiday Sale! Lucy's Informal Flowers and Mari Bliss Boutique has slashed prices on all christmas ornaments and more to make room for more fun stuff in 2012. All holiday will be half off until it's gone!

We're open from 10 am - 3 pm tomorrow, New Year's Eve! Poke around the store and grab a wrap of flowers, potted plant, or fabulous candle for your New Year's party host (even if it's you!).

At the Last Minute.

2011-12-24T11:05:00.000-08:00

There is still time for shopping, and we have lots of ideas for last minute gifts.

Besides ornaments, sugar plum fairies and other Christmas cheer, we have plants, flowers, candles, Caldrea lotions and soaps. Come by and say hi on this Christmas Eve!

A Little Pampering.

2011-12-23T08:30:00.000-08:00

Whether you're looking for a gift for a loved one, or simply just want to treat yourself after all the holiday hustle and bustle, Mari Bliss Boutique has plenty of products for pampering in stock!

From fizzy bath products to candles and soaps, we have what you need to fill a stocking and the tub for a relaxing gift!

Bath cupcakes look and smell delicious!

It's ok if all you want for Christmas is a double martini. This glass is perfect for a cocktail in the bath.

Lots of great stocking stuffers and fun gifts for pampering your friends, or yourself. Come on in and say hi this week!

I'm Dreaming...

2011-12-21T23:24:00.000-08:00

...It's safe to say you know the rest. But, in case you're still looking for last minute gifts or stocking stuffers, do not forget that Christmas ornaments and decor always make people smile. Even when it's not white out there!

Sparkly white poinsettias dress up any tree, wreath, or garland.

We like a monochromatic tree! Mix it up with different textures and shapes.

Faux frost never hurt anyone! Even it's warm outside, your tree can look like Jack Frost stopped by for a visit.

We never met a feather we didn't like...this one dresses up a clear glass bulb.

Clear glass reflects the light and makes things sparkle! You can't have enough.

We still have lots of Christmas in the store, and plenty of fun gift ideas. Stop by the shop for a visit!

Candles, Candles, Candles!

2011-12-20T08:57:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love candles to brighten these short winter days?

Bejeweled bugs set the season aglow!

From glammed up bugs to beautiful birds, we have a large selection of candles for any decor!

Wintry birds.

Leaves and twine create a soft, natural look.

Candles always make great gifts.

Sparkly cupcakes are fun any time of year!

Hugs and kisses.

Stop by to stock up on last-minute stocking stuffers and hostess gifts! We've got a huge selection of candles to light up your holiday, and parking is free after 4:00 pm in downtown Hood River.

Paperwhites, Poinsettias, Mistletoe...Oh my!

2011-12-13T12:02:00.001-08:00

There is no question that we love our holiday sparkle. But we also love bringing the outdoors in with blooming plants, evergreens, holly and fresh mistletoe -- and we've got it all in the store, right now!

Everyone's favorite -- Amaryllis is always a hit and makes a great gift.
Here, we've wrapped it in a square of burlap for a natural, rustic look.

Blooming Paperwhites look amazing and smell even better!

Poinsettias are fetching in a shiny silver pot.

Love the variegated leaves.

Fresh wreaths and garland are beautiful in any home--indoors or outside. We also just received 3" poinsettia plants and fresh mistletoe, both of which make great hostess gifts!

Remember, parking is free after 4 pm in downtown Hood River until Christmas. Stop in for a visit and to stock up on holiday plants and greenery!

The Sparkliest Place in Town.

2011-12-09T09:32:00.001-08:00

What's red, white, and sparkly all over? Here's a hint:

It has glittery poinsettias.

A reindeer with flair.

Berries and a bright red bird.

It's just another one of our fabulously decorated trees!

We love red, white, and sparkle!

We have ornaments galore in the store -- there is still plenty of time to add a little flair to your tree. Ornaments make great gifts, too, so stop by and see our selection of holiday sparkle!

Holiday Cheer Just Got Cheerier...

2011-12-08T12:39:00.001-08:00

'Tis the season for a long list of fun things, but we like to think that holiday cocktail parties take the top spot. There is so much to celebrate in December, and even more to look forward to in the coming year--is there a better reason to raise your glass? We don't think so.

Jazz up your cocktail hour with these delightful napkins from Caspari. Not your average beverage napkin, these are sturdy, well-designed, and come in an array of colors and sizes.

Black and white flourishes are always elegant.

Gold with snowy dots.

Garden ornaments complement any cocktail!

Mari Bliss Boutique has a large selection of Caspari napkins in stock. They are the perfect addition to your next holiday party, and make a great hostess gift. Come in and have a look at all of our holiday treats. We'd love to see you!

A Few Tips For a Fabulous Tree!

2011-11-29T17:34:00.001-08:00

The holidays are officially upon us, and we are ready! Are you? If you're still looking for ideas to put together a lovely tree, look no further! Our elves have been busy decorating one of our favorite local hotels, and we've got lots of fun inspiration to share.

But first, a lesson in the fundamentals.

Tree Tip Number One: Don't be shy with the lights, and please tuck the plugs in! You want the lights to highlight the ornaments and make your tree sparkle, not be the focal point. Put as many lights as you can, weaving them in toward the trunk. Don't forget to light all the way to the top of the tree!

Tree Tip Number Two: Scale, scale, scale. A big tree--even if it's a little skinny--can handle some big ornaments. The bigger the better, we think. These big gold balls look pretty stunning on this tall, somewhat spindly tree. In fact, we kind of liked it that the tree was a little sparse to showcase the ornaments.

That being said, don't be afraid to put a few big ornaments on a small tree either. Small ornaments can still get lost in a small tree, so be sure to hang the petite ones out toward the end of a branch, and in a sparse area if there are any.

Ornaments of all sizes and shapes make your tree interesting and fun!

Which leads us to Tree Tip Number Three: More is More. That's right. Contradictory to most advice for living these days, more really is more when it comes to decorating your tree. Load it up, and don't be afraid to think outside of the box.

A glittery sign tops this tree instead of a traditional star or angel. Why not, we say!

A quiver of feathers tucked in the branches? Why, yes, yes we did!

Tree Tip #4: Layer, Layer, Layer. Tuck ornaments in toward the trunk of the tree to add depth and dimension. It helps to fill in holes and gaps between branches, and you utilize all of the tree's usable space.

Lots of layers make a full and gorgeous tree!

Tree Tip #5: No Strings, Wires, or Hooks Please! Make the ornament look like part of the tree by wrapping it around the branch so that you can't see how it's attached. It also helps to better affix it to the tree.

No space between ornament and branch is a beautiful thing!

Tree Tip #6: Texture is Your Friend. Different textures take your tree from average to extraordinary!

Sprays of gold, beaded round purple balls, fluffy white poinsettias, and glass purple drops create visual interest.

The feathers in this snowman's hat add a fun texture to the tree.

Tree Tip #7: Have fun! Let your inner child come out and play when decorating your tree. It's ok to be a little goofy, and above all, enjoy the process! Think outside of the box, and know that the unconventional will make your tree stand out, and you happy every time you look at it.

Playful snowmen and pears work well together on this tree --the fruit helps to ground the whimsical elements. The Naughty or Nice is just plain fun!

We have a ton of great ornaments and holiday decor in the shop--stop by for more ideas!

Last Minute Thanksgiving Table Ideas

2011-11-22T09:48:00.001-08:00

Haven't planned your Thanksgiving Day table yet? Not to worry--a beautiful and festive table doesn't have to be fussy or overly complicated. With a few easy tips and tricks, you can create a gorgeous backdrop for your lovely feast, without any additional stress!

Linens: If you are short on time to iron or otherwise fuss with a tablecloth, skip it altogether--especially if you have a nice table. Dress up your table with a runner down the middle, fancy or rustic fabric, or use place mats at each setting to make the plates stand out (and protect your table).

Lots of ideas on Pinterest!

Chargers are a great way to dress up your table, whether you are using them at each place setting or to hold candles or other centerpieces. See our post about chargers here.

Candles give your table the perfect glow; consider a number of small votives scattered across the table, or glass hurricanes down the center if you have a large table.

Bring in the outdoors with flowers, plants, and other natural elements to add life and color to your table. Whether you have a centerpiece, small vases of cut flowers, or a garden of succulents or other small plants in the center of your table, flowers and greenery are a must! You can also consider scattering dried fall leaves down the middle of the table, tucking them into a napkin ring or affixing them to clear glass candle holders.

Stop by Lucy's Informal Flowers today for more ideas for your table! Grab a couple of bouquets, a floral centerpiece, or some small houseplants--we have a wide selection of containers to put them in and compost for planting.

Mari Bliss Boutique rents chargers for $2 each and has a variety of candles and other fun items, including decorative napkins for pre-dinner cocktail hour. We've got everything you need to make your table festive!

Dirt Hugger Compost

2011-11-17T13:05:00.000-08:00

Just because it's stormy outside doesn't mean you can't play in the dirt! Winter is a great time to bring the outdoors in, and spruce up or expand your collection of potted plants. We've recently started selling locally made Dirt Hugger Compost, the perfect medium for growing lush and healthy plants.

We put it right to work, tucking these cute succulents into Dirt Hugger Compost, and we love these square glass cubes for planting!

Stop by the shop and check out our selection of plants and pots, and take home a bag of Dirt Hugger Compost. We can help you put together a living centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table, or just add a little life to any room of your house.

Fun and Fashionable Reading Glasses From ICU

2011-11-08T12:52:00.000-08:00

Look what we just got in:

There is no reason your reading glasses shouldn't be stylish! We love ICU Eyewear, famous for their fun and funky designs.

Even down to their cases, these are no ordinary reading glasses. They are cute, comfortable, and well-designed. Best of all, they are affordable!

Tree of Life

Candy Cane

We've got a variety of designs in at the shop--hurry, these will go fast! Stop by and see what ICU frame suits your style.