The Royal Scoop

2012-11-11T23:00:00.000-06:00

A few pics of my little aviator's first birthday party! Happy Birthday Michael! I had a blast designing his invitations and hope to give you a tutorial on all the details involved sometime soon.

A Surprise 30th Birthday Party!

2010-09-20T09:10:00.000-05:00

Today, September 20, 2010 is officially my husband's 30th Birthday!!! Happy Happy Happy Birthday Anthony! And lucky for me, it was the perfect occasion to throw a festive surprise party for my bestie. More to come...

Happily Ever After...

2010-08-06T11:38:00.001-05:00

Photo Credit: Bird & Bear

Love, love, love this hand embroidered table cloth from Bird & Bear on Etsy!

What a delightful gift this would be to receive!

A Vintage Tea Party

2010-08-05T11:53:00.001-05:00

In case you fancy a little bit of whimsical romance this delightful afternoon, I have the most perfect bit of lovely inspiration for you to feast your eyes upon. Cyd from The Sweetest Occasion never seems to disappoint with her deliverance of the most adorable posts, filled to the brim with the most delightful and exquisite tid bits of sweet inspiration. And today she has "upped the ante" on lady-like romance, featuring the most fantastic vintage tea party shoot to-date. Today's vintage fête has captured my heart and I am so excited to share the beauty of it's tailored simplicity with you all. Brace yourselves ladies and gents, this delightful feature is vintage perfection at its finest.

Photo Credits: Jennifer Dery

Forty Years of Love: Larry & Camille

2010-06-02T14:43:00.137-05:00

My heart and soul must have been born in an era of the past, for this, I am certain. Call me dramatic, or easily faint at heart, but nothing is more blissfully romantic than a decadent wedding anniversary; a moment to reflect upon a love of the past and a sentimental celebration of all that encompasses a timeless love story. I like to imagine, in this so-called life we live, that we all have a story to tell. Our lives are like chapters of a novel waiting to unfold page by page. And for all of my hopeless romantics out there, today you are in luck. We are featuring an excerpt out of one of the most loveliest stories of all time... Celebrating 40 Years of Love, in honor of Larry & Camille's 40th wedding anniversary.

The Royal Scoop:

In honor of Larry & Camille's 40th wedding anniversary, I thought it would be most fitting to focus on their own personal love story. The intimate soiree was held at Cafe la Cave, a French restaurant and banquet hall in the Northern suburbs of Chicago. Amongst a romantic candlelit setting were soft and elegant accents of linens in deep chocolate, gilded gold walls, French chandeliers, fresh garden blooms, and lush ivory draperies. The perfect backdrop for a celebration of a timeless romance.

I wanted to put a bit of an unexpected twist on the typical placecard table display that is so often played out time and time again. Keeping in tune with our "love story" theme, I used the idea of a vintage library card catalogue display for the placecards. Balancing rustic charm with pure elegance, the placecard display was every bit romantic as it was charming. Love birds amongst nests of Spanish moss, a collection of vintage novels, and fresh English rose blooms were just a few of the details that brought the staging display together so perfectly. The actual placecards were larger than your standard size to replicate bookmarks. Using 80lb ivory metallic cardstock and standard cream cardstock, we layered the pieces together with spray adhesive and rounded the corners for a softer touch. For the calligraphy, we used "The King & Queen" script, which can be downloaded for free on many sites! For the perfect finishing touch, I recommend adding a small tassel to the placecard, so that your guests can reuse the placecard as a personal bookmark. We cut back on this detail to keep to budget, but I think your guests will be delighted with their own personal keepsake.

Photo Credits: The Royal Gala

Celebrating a 40th Anniversary

2010-04-22T16:22:00.027-05:00

Next week on The Royal Scoop, we have a delightful feature to share. Stay tuned for an inside look into Celebrating a 40th Anniversary, planned and coordinated exclusively by The Royal Gala.

"Unto us all our days are love's anniversaries, each one in turn hath ripen'd something of our happiness."

-Robert Bridges

Photo Credits: The Royal Gala

Perfectly Luxurious

2010-04-09T10:35:00.002-05:00

Photo Credits: Going to the Chapel

There is something undeniably luxurious and alluring about a French tufted sofa in a soft shade of shimmery gray perfectly paired with vintage couture Chanel. That something just might be the sheer gorgeousness of French elegance at it's finest, at least in my books I'd say. And fortunately for me, there is always reason to peruse through French loveliness on a daily basis. If I had it my way, every wedding and special occasion alike would be perfectly tailored with rustic charm, glamorous elegance, and a handful of French accoutrements signaling old royalty and great wealth. Despite my very own obsession with France, there really is something to denote about it's culture and that elusive je ne sais quoi factor of French style and class. It all comes together in a way that is elegant without being pretentious, chic without being overdone. Perfectly luxurious, I might add. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

Introducing A Lovely Workshop by beloved photographer Elizabeth Messina at Kenwood Inn in Napa.

Photo Credits: Chewing The Cud

Owl Inspired Fête, II

2010-03-18T12:00:00.002-05:00

Today's delightful feature is as sweet as peaches and cream and I simply can not get enough of the whimsical details nestled within. Okay, maybe I admit to having a severe case of weakness for details, but who can blame a girl when they go such a long way towards setting the overall feel of an event? One can not deny the truth in the matter- they lend such a beautiful, personal, handmade touch to any festive occasion. And the fresh Spring appeal of the ever-so-perfect details incorporated into Tova's charming 1st birthday party encapsulates all that a young one could possibly dream of. A successful nod to classic girly sensibility at it's finest. It just really is that fabulous.

The royal scoop from Tova's Mommy:

I started with a color scheme and added owls for fun. The peaches and pinks were quite pretty. The bamboo plates, platters, and sporks were from Green Feet.

We moved all of the furniture out of the front of our house and into our garage and back rooms. Then we tacked massive sheets of white fabric to the ceiling to cover the main walls. It was quite a nice transformation.

IBC cream soda and root beer. The mason jars with floral cut-out lids had white paper straws and tags that said "_________ is using this cup."

The cupcakes were made from recipes in the book "Organic and Chic". The icings were amazing, the cakes were okay. The two chocolates together were way too intense. Maybe had the icings been swapped, they would have been better. Baking supplies were from Bake It Pretty and Ultimate Baker.

Owl lollipops made from scratch. The cow milk glasses are from Shop Terrain. We love them and use them every day now. Owl shortbread butter cookies from "Organic and Chic" that melted in your mouth. Love that recipe! And a bunch of peaches.

Poms from Pom Love.

The perfectly amazing owl pinata from Birchangel Pinatas.

The amazing ceramic owl from Fruitflypie on Etsy.

Photo Credits: Kallie Brynn Photography

So, what do you guys think of this darling event? Personally, owl always love this party! {Pathetic, I know}. I would LOVE to feature your very own special festive fête, please email me at jchiovari@theroyalgala.com for more information!

Owl Inspired Fête

2010-03-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

I happen to be a die-hard lover of all things pretty. At heart, I am just the girliest of girls. Delicate flowers, frilly details and whimsical styling are just a few of the simplest of details that literally make my heart flutter. And as the early days of a fresh Spring trickle in, I can not help but adore all of the sweet merriment billowing atop today's delightful birthday party feature. In my books, a gorgeous garden inspired fête is always in bloom.

Photo Credits: Kallie Brynn Photography

Stay tuned, you're going to LOVE this darling feature!

Fancy This: Vintage Handkerchiefs

2010-03-03T16:49:00.015-06:00

I come today bearing the most delightful vintage Save the Dates - and a slight confession. I have an obsessive compulsive disorder with all things vintage and I can not bring myself to restrain my infatuation. Seriously. Well, truth be told, I kind-of revel in this delightful little obsession of mine that increasingly grows day by day with no limitations. And clearly, today's vintage feature has prolonged my condition. Recently, I was on the prowl for some creative inspiration and I stumbled upon the most perfect and oh-so charming Save the Dates designed by Rachel of Benign Objects. This bride put so much TLC into designing a Save the Date announcement that was as lovely, as it was meaningful. And lucky for me, I just happen to have the perfect occasion to incorporate this delightful little project. {More on this DIY project to come in the future!}

The royal scoop from the darling bride:

I'd seen some printing done on handkerchiefs and really liked the tactile quality of a vintage handkerchief and the idea of creating a keepsake. I collected vintage handkerchiefs mostly through eBay. Then I created a design using my silhouette and my fiancé's silhouette. I then created a screen and handscreened all 160 of them using my Yudu.

I then tied them with ribbon to cardstock I had printed with a lovebird design on one side and a red pattern I created on the other side. Couples and ladies got the lovebirds and floral handkerchief while Philip's single guy friends got the slightly more manly version with just a white handkerchief on the patterned card. From there they went into kraft paper envelopes that I custom-lined myself. I also created custom mailing labels that I stuck to the envelope.

-Rachel of Benign Objects

Photo Credits: Benign Objects

If you have not been introduced previously to all of the loveliness that comes from Benign Objects, you will most certainly want to check out Rachel's blog. And to top off all the vintage charm just oozing from this project, Rachel has given The Wedding Chicks a fabulous tutorial on how you can craft your very own vintage Save the Date handkerchiefs found right here! How divine!

presents...

Photo Credits: The Wedding Chicks

A Weekend of Lovelies

2010-02-26T11:17:00.002-06:00

Photo Credits: Ariella Chezar and Meg Smith

What a lovely week it has been. Hope you have an even sweeter weekend and enjoy catching up on some delightful finds...

To do or not to do? Helpful tips on why you SHOULD hire a wedding coordinator for your special day!

DIY Soda Pop escort cards are perfect for that whimsical event you are planning!

This French film looks absolutely adorable! Can not wait to brush up on my French with this lovely film.

Going for that ethereal romantic look? You'll want to perfectly accessorize with some of these glamorous finds.

Adorable Paper Candy Gift Toppers make me smile.

All that glitters... Johanna Johnson is one designer you do not want to miss out on!

Center Stage

2010-02-26T10:16:00.009-06:00

You may recall our delightful little post on perfectly pink ballerina inspired wedding gowns that we featured earlier this month. Well, leave it to Martha to perfectly spotlight the most girly bit of gorgeousness taking center stage in the whimsical world of weddings. The Martha Stewart Weddings Spring 2010 edition has yet to hit stands, but I couldn't resist sharing it's elegant ensemble of the most graceful tulle wedding gowns that have me seriously rethinking my obsession with duchess silk satin. For our lovely brides-to-be, please take note. You will most definitely gain a standing ovation for your bridal debut in a gown as dreamy and romantic as these ethereal ballerina confections.

Photo Credits: Ditte Isager for Martha Stewart Weddings Spring 2010

You will most definitely want to pick up the Pretty in Pink Spring 2010 edition of Martha Stewart Weddings as quickly as it hit stands, it's filled to the brim with the loveliest bits of inspiration.

Vintage Garden Romance: Kelli & Sam, IV

2010-02-25T18:00:00.001-06:00

I'm betting that today's delightful romantic feature has left you with tremendous awe. Maybe a little bit of envy. Overall, it is my hope that you have been inspired with a fresh perspective to styling an event with sweet simplicity. Sweet simplicity that speaks volumes, nonetheless.

I graciously would like to thank Kelli & Sam for allowing us to indulge in their romantic wedding celebration. Be sure to check out more of Kelli's work right here.

Below is a video that Tom of Aqua Vivus and Matthew Forrey put together for Sam and I on our wedding day. He pieced together and edited the footage all in under two hours (during cocktail hour of the wedding) and we were able to share it with guests at the end of the night on a huge projector screen! It had the whole crowd in tears! Every time I watch it, it brings me back to that very moment, and I re-live the joy of that day all over again. -Kelli Larson

Kelli + Sam - Same Day Edit/Wedding Trailer from Matthew Forrey on Vimeo.

Vintage Garden Romance: Kelli & Sam, III

2010-02-25T15:00:00.002-06:00

Recently, I was asked what the one piece of advice I would give to all brides and grooms would be. Simple. Let your personality dictate your wedding style. Don't be afraid to break from tradition. Allow yourself to infuse unique, memorable, and personal touches that define the essence of your relationship. Taking a clue from today's gifted bride Kelli, the perfect place to start infusing personality: wedding papery elements. And with talent as inspiring and unique as that of Kelli Larson, one can only imagine how much personality she would evoke into her very own wedding invitation suite. A labor of love that clearly translates as a treasure to cherish for the recipients.

The royal scoop from the adorable bride:

I love to layer textures and fabrics into many of my designs and I decided to do that here with our invitation as well. I hand drew the branch/feather frame and chose a font I thought suited it. I scanned in some lace and layered it on top of old vintage paper. After playing around with colors for a bit, I decided on this pale peach…which I want to be a dominant color of the floral! And then I went with a slate shimmer envelope. I can’t get enough of custom die cut invitations, so I had to tack on that little added touch as well!

For those of you who stop by often on The Royal Scoop know quite well the depth of my love for all things vintage. It's pretty much a given that I am going to fall head over heels with all things that encompass a touch of vintage elegance. So it comes as no surprise that these darling papery elements, designed and printed by the bride herself, have made my heart flutter with glee. I am particularly smitten with this muted color palette… the pretty peaches and soft grays, just gorgeous. And the wedding programs...oh my! They stand as a stunning example of Kelli's talent…with perfect details, personal written notes, and a style that is all together lovely, you can't help but wish they were your very own.

Photo Credits: Sarah Shreves

Vintage Garden Romance: Kelli & Sam, II

2010-02-25T12:00:00.004-06:00

Today's feature is every bit vintage inspired, and yet it has a fresh, updated perspective that is absolutely gorgeous. A little bit of pure elegance with an incredibly lovely understated style, Kelli and Sam's romantic and awe-inspiring wedding has me floating on cloud nine. Infused with a galore of garden-inspired elements, you can practically hear the birds chirping at this lovely affair. It really is just that delightful. It's that perfect blend of backyard sensibility with super chic style. And seriously, can we just have a moment for this glowing bride who defines the epitome of gorgeousness? {Sigh}.

Aside from being an illustrator extraordinaire, Kelli has a natural flair for style and design. Her eye for chic sophistication enabled her to capture pretty perfection in all that she created for her wedding day, making the entire affair seem beautifully effortless. The theme of the wedding was Vintage Garden Romance - I wanted it all to be very soft and fairy-tale like....almost like it was from another time. -Kelli Larson

The Inspiration Board: Fall Romance

I recently had a chance to discuss with Kelli the most memorable and sacred moment of her wedding day. On a day where every moment is a memory in and of itself, I was sincerly delighted to hear the emotional and loving response she shared with me.

Honestly, the best part of the whole day for me was standing on the alter with Sam, hand in hand and looking into his eyes and knowing that this was the man I would spend the rest of my life with. It was a feeling of joy and comfort and commitment and overwhelming love. Something I had never felt before. We could have been anywhere at that moment. But as I looked around me and saw all the people I have ever loved in my life witnessing and supporting our commitment to one another....it became just that much more special. Another kicker for me was the song that my friend Kendall Payne sang for us during our ceremony. It is an old hymn called "How Deep a Father's Love for Us". The words brought me to tears in thinking about the greatness of God's love. And how lucky I am to love...because He first loved me. -Kelli Larson

Although this gem of a wedding is overflowing with gorgeous details, I have to admit, it's the DIY bridesmaid's accessories that really make my heart melt. And luckily for us, Kelli is here to divulge all her secrets.

I am lucky to have a cousin who is the “queen of crafts”. Ask her how to do anything creative, and she will most likely know. Well I went to her with the idea of creating custom accessories for my bridesmaids. I didn’t want them all to wear the exact same thing, but I did want it all to coordinate in one way or another. And because their dresses are very simple….I wanted to make more of a statement in jewelry. I was inspired by the work of Marquis & Camus, a collection of jewelry that offers a truly unique look into the future of remixed couture. I am SO IN LOVE with all of it! In a dream world, I would have bought each of my bridesmaids a Marquis & Camus original…..but I decided to get crafty instead.

Photo Credits:Acres of Hope Photography

My cousin and I went out and bought a handful of odds and ends: charms, pearls, chains, elastic, feathers and flowers…….as well as a few “base necklaces” from forever 21. (Yes, I admit it) She hand made silk roses and coffee stained tattered tool to add as needed. After much thought on what to create with all this “goodness”, we decided on 3 necklaces, 2 bracelets, and two flower hairpieces. A little something different for each girl.

And I'm sure you're probably dying to know where you can get your hands on those fabulous bridesmaid's gowns? I'm a little embarrassed to say it, but it was from Charlotte Russe! Although I altered it myself, removing the ric rac that was on it and adding my own trim below the bust. I used the same tattered tool on the top of my own dress to tie it all in. -Kelli Larson {Gasp}. How genius is that?

Vintage Garden Romance: Kelli & Sam

2010-02-25T07:00:00.004-06:00

Our featured bride, Kelli Larson, is just that kind of girl you can't help but fall in love with. A girl with an infectious smile, timeless beauty, and that laid back California chic style. And to top it all off, she's been gifted with quite a unique, yet every bit amazing, oh-so ridiculous talent as an illustrator. You just can't help but be enamored with the sweetness she radiates or envious of her charm. And you can only imagine that a girl with so much loveliness could only find a match as wonderful as herself.

Introducing Kelli and Sam...

It's hard to imagine a more thoughtfully and lovingly designed wedding than that of Kelli and Sam's. It's one of those weddings that is just pure prettiness from head to toe. Their Happily Ever After began as a backyard chic wedding in El Cajon, CA with details that were absolutely spot on beautiful. Even more notably, Kelli infused a plethora of DIY projects, all the while keeping a savvy budget friendly appeal, that will literally make your heart flutter. And for those of you who are left with bated breath, not to fret. We have a delightful day of gorgeousness and insight from the darling bride herself.

Photo Credits: Acres of Hope Photography

Making Magic Happen

2010-02-24T09:07:00.015-06:00

Lately, you have probably noticed that things have been quieter than usual here on The Royal Scoop. Well, we have been busy bee's making magic happen behind the scenes. Literally. Every year, my husband and I are fortunate enough to spend our winters in Florida, due to the nature of my husband's business. And during our winter break, we delightfully frolic around the enchanted land of Walt Disney World creating magical memories for families and children of all ages. Yep, that's right, we are Disney cast members. Coincidentally, our time spent as Disney cast members, making the magic happen, seems to bring as much blissful merriment into our own lives as the lives we touch. A humbling experience nonetheless.

Photo Credits: The Royal Gala

As one might assume, working with Disney is an extraordinary experience and I feel truly blessed to be a part of a company that claims a level of greatness all it's own. There is just something really, really special about the nature of it's core being. I can honestly admit that it absolutely is a place where dreams come true and fantasies flourish. A bit of a reminder that life is much merrier with a dash of whimsy and a belief in the most fanciful of dreams.

A dream is a wish your heart makes when you're fast asleep. In dreams you will lose your heartaches. Whatever you wish for, you keep. Have faith in your dreams, and someday, your rainbow will come smiling through. No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dreams that you wish will come true. -Cinderella

With that being said, we are back to creating magic, of the prettiest kind, here on The Royal Scoop. We hope you'll stay tuned, we think you're gonna like what we have in store!

Photo Credits: Martha Stewart

Accepting Submissions to The Royal Scoop

2010-02-15T16:52:00.009-06:00

Photo Credits: Joe Elario Photogprahy via Green Wedding Shoes

Interested in appearing on The Royal Scoop? We LOVE to feature delightful weddings, and all special occasions alike, that are full to the brim of couture inspiration. Have a unique and inspiring DIY project that you are working on? Well, we would LOVE to give our followers the royal scoop on your labor of LOVE. Please contact Jacquelyn at jchiovari@theroyalgala.com if you are interested in having your work publicized on our blog. Also, if you have stumbled upon something that you think is so fabulous we should share it with our audience, please spread the LOVE, we'd be oh-so delighted for you to do so! In fact, we'd LOVE you for it!
jchiovari@theroyalgala.com

Submission requirements:

5-10 photographs with proper source credits {Photographs should be between 400-600 pixels wide}
A brief description of what you are submitting and why you feel it fits the bill for our audience. For weddings: please give us an insight into the details that encompassed your special day. What was your theme, the overall vision for the occasion, what made your day unique and memorable? For DIY projects, please provide us with a tutorial on how you created your divine designs.
Any relevant information that pertains to the vendors {Name and Website} who helped translate your dreams into reality for your project or special occasion.
Please provide us with an email address to contact you for further information if necessary.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Fancy This: Sash & Bustle

2010-02-15T15:02:00.005-06:00

As of late, I find myself drawn to quirky, charming and unexpected bridal details. A little bit of a reminder that sometimes the overly fancy and über glamorous way of thinking is not always the answer. Case and point: Sash & Bustle {Toranto, Canada}. The fresh approach to bridal attire by Sash & Bustle is everything a vintage obsessed gal like myself could dream of. Offering brides a stylish yet understated perspective on the classic white wedding dress, Sash & Bustle is sure to delight the bride-to-be who longs for a dress full of personality. Just a few of the details I am loving..

Photo Credits: Crimson Photos via Ritzy Bee

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T12:00:00.006-06:00

It's Valentine's Day lovelies! A day to revel in the pure beauty of being in love with tinseled charm and unabashed sentimentality. And for a hopeless romantic like myself, it's just another excuse to celebrate the merriment of sharing my life with the one that I love so dearly. So, to add a little bit more loveliness to this already festive occasion, I thought it would be appropriate to share one of the most beautiful love stories that you have possibly ever seen. I'm just a little bit over the moon about this delightful little vignette from Phototerra Studio that I stumbled upon this weekend. In fact, I am madly in love with it. The artistic vision is simply amazing. It reigns as a true testament to the value of a fantastic cinematographer, to say the very least. The video was shot and produced by Anastasia Greenberg, wife of Michael Greenberg {owner and artistic director of Phototerra Studio}. And trust me, just a few minutes of this video and a box of tissues later, you'll know exactly what I mean.

Here's to sharing a wonderful day full of love with the ones you hold so dear in your life. Happy Valentine's Day!

Photo Credits: Two Auer Photo

A Weekend of Lovelies

2010-02-12T13:39:00.010-06:00

Photo Credits: Kiss the Groom

Wishing you all a delightful weekend shared amongst the company of your special Valentine or your sweet loved ones. Thank you for all of your lovely comments and correspondences this week. Your sincere and ever so kind words are every bit inspiring. Happy Weekend!

Amy Atlas's take on a bold palette for Valentine's Day sweets-Part One and Part Two.

I can not resist pom poms and doilies to perfectly present a sweet Valentine's Day treat!

This couple's vintage love story has captured my heart. I am beyond smitten with this romantic storytelling, photographing a couple's journey together step by step.

Delightful cake flag banners to adorn a whimsical cake from Etsy seller Baumbirdy!

Leave it to Martha, adorable conversation heart cookies.

Feast your eyes upon the lovely whimsical wedding décor we are selling!

Love At First Sight

2010-02-12T07:00:00.007-06:00

In the spirit of Saint Valentine's Day, I am loving this brilliantly styled romantic engagement session captured by Simply Bloom Photography. With the rise of vintage inspired weddings, old world elements and dated embellishments that elicit a mood of nostalgia are consistently blossoming within the world of weddings. Old-fashioned simplicity in design has a universal, enduring appeal. It comes across as approachable, accessible and attainable in terms of technique. And personally, I could not be more of a fan of this rustic look of casual elegance taking center stage. L-O-V-E!

Photo Credits: Simply Bloom Photography via Green Wedding Shoes

The vintage aesthetic used to capture these playful photographs is utterly gorgeous! It genuinely celebrates a classic and timeless look, creating a charming natural style that transcends fads and trends to articulate a fresh and original look. Romance at it's finest.

Baby It's Cold Outside

2010-02-11T13:51:00.004-06:00

Photo Credits: Anthropologie

The most charming Valentine's Day gift for a darling bride-to-be. These chic cashmere winter grey gloves are perfectly accessorized with a little sparkling ring adornment. Simply divine!

Sweet Straws

2010-02-11T09:00:00.003-06:00

With Saint Valentine's Day quickly approaching, I wanted to reflect upon a few lovely, and ever so simple, holiday tokens of affection that make Valentine's Day so very sweet! Clearly, my love for vintage embellishments and beautiful things knows no bounds. And luckily for me, I am not alone with this untamed obsession. I have been a fan of the darling creations of Olivia Kanaley from A Field Journal since I can long remember. Her attention to detail is impeccable, her projects are above and beyond inspiring and her gift of talent alone is absolutely remarkable. Gazing upon her designs is like a lesson in all things fabulous. Each project that she sets out to create is flawless perfection and I am undoubtedly enthralled by her talent to say the very least. Really, it's just that good. Actually, maybe even better.

Photo Credits: Papermash

Amongst the many lovely things Olivia keeps herself busy with, she is currently a contributor to Victoria Magazine as Artist-In-Residence for 2010. What a title to behold! And just as you would expect from a gal this talented, all of her featured designs are on a level of greatness all their own. It's that perfect balance of vintage elegance with a dash of whimsy that keeps me coming back for more each month.

Photo Credits: (1) Victoria Magazine via A Field Journal , (2) A Field Journal, (3) A Field Journal

Most recently, Olivia created a delightful tutorial of Sweet Straws exclusively for Papermash. A step by step tutorial on this design can be found right here for your Valentine's crafting pleasure. Take note, these stripey sweet straws are best served with something sweet!

A Shower of Love

2010-02-10T12:00:00.003-06:00

We have a real treat for you today... and by treat, I mean the most adorable, charming, and delightful bit of inspiration that is certain to warm your heart with glee and fulfill your girly fantasies. The lovely details billowing atop this organically styled bridal shower are undeniably fabulous, and yet, entirely approachable. I am completely head over heels for the personalized touches and creativity that went into the making of this glorious occasion. It reads through as endearing, quaint and subtlety sweet. Absolutely brilliant, in fact.

It's pretty much a given that I am obsessed with cupcakes. Who can resist the ever so playful pint size portion of heavenly bliss? And one could easily bet that these delicate sprinkled little beauties are every bit tasteful as they are delightful to look upon.

Photo Credits: Chenin Boutwell via Details Details

There is no denying the warmth of muted yellow tones and dusty pink hues. Warm rich shades genuinely translate a cheerful color palette, which inherently provides a romantic and inviting backdrop to a blissful occasion. With lots of sparkly mercury accents nestled throughout, this organic tablescape feels surprisingly glamorous as well, but when anchored with lots of white it feels fresh and crisp like the early summer mornings. From an assortment of vintage vessels to fresh lemonade and to perfectly packaged sweets, the ideas are simple, thoughtful and heartwarming. And it comes as no surprise that the amazing talent behind this garden inspired design was the always adorable Jeannie from Details Details. It’s so ridiculously gorgeous, with that laid back and unfussy vibe, you really can’t help but be just a little jealous.

And it just keeps getting better and better...

Photo Credits: Forty-Sixth at Grace via Creature Comforts

Shortbread buttons, are these not the cutest and most perfect cookies ever? A simple and customizable project that would pair perfectly as the finishing touch to an occasion as adorable as the cookies themselves. Package them in hand sewn fabric bags embellished with ribbon and a tag and you'll surely delight your guests as you bake your way into their hearts. A full tutorial can be found here.