all things beautiful

A fabulous DIY South African wedding with an eclectic, whimsical and a little bit hippie theme

2012-05-16T20:49:00.003-07:00

From the bride...

I totally started planning my wedding before I was even engaged. My husband and I dated long distance for a year and a half before we were finally in the same city. I am Canadian and he is South African; we decided to get married in South Africa because that’s where we met. My family was so supportive throughout that process. They didn’t bat an eye to come thousands of kilometers to be there for me on my day. Even though we didn’t have a very big budget, they overwhelmed me with their support through the entire process. I have always wanted to have a “fabulous DIY wedding with an eclectic, whimsical and a little bit hippie theme.” I’m so happy with what I got. My wedding dress was $100 from a one day closeout sale that I stumbled upon completely by accident with my mom one day. It was magical. Maureen Patricia of Queen Couture in Victoria made some alterations so that the dress fit my vision and my body like a glove! I also decided to make a second dress to wear at the reception. My dream dress has been the Vera Wang from Bride Wars but in case anyone hadn’t noticed, Vera is a bit steep for my pocket, so instead, she was my inspiration and I started sewing. I bought $10 shoes from Costa Blanca and made a killer necklace from a 1920′s vintage belt buckle and some ’60s costume pearls. Double score. Two outfits: $400.

The flowers were an amazing score as well, we picked arum lilies from a farm two days before the wedding through a friend, free of charge. I also asked a few other friends and family members if they could donate some white flowers, greenery and lavender for the reception decor and my bouquet. I kept a crocheted doily that my great-grandmother made for me when I was eight and used it to wrap my bouquet — it was my little piece of home that I took with me when I got married. My bridesmaids and I also spent hours scraping labels off of wine bottles to put flowers and candles in at the reception. My parents, grandparents, fiance, my aunt and some dear friends made it a group effort to cut and sew the long table runners for the reception. This wedding was truly a community effort!

I designed and sewed my junior bridesmaids’ dresses (one was repurposed; it was originally my own dress), and they looked completely fabulous. My bridesmaids wore whatever they wanted (within a color palette — my inspiration was the colors of a peacock feather) so I could rest assured they would be comfortable in whatever they wore. Our wedding cake was a Rice Krispie cake. I love the stuff and am not really such a fan of cake. Plus, it was cheap. My mom made it the day before the wedding. The cake toppers were a favor from another wedding that I reused. Because some people could only make the ceremony, we split up the speeches into two parts. Reece said his speech to me directly following the ceremony along with Mitch, his brother and best man. My dad and I, as well as my maid of honor, made speeches after dinner. I loved it because I knew Reece was so relieved to have his speech out of the way for the rest of the wedding! Our wedding was a continuous affair throughout the day. There wasn’t really a lull where people didn’t know what to do between the ceremony and reception. By the time the tea and treats had wrapped up at the chapel, the guests were invited to have drinks, cheese and hors d’oeuvres at our reception venue. We had some amazing friends who also provided live music and even wrote us a song that everyone joined in singing. By the time we arrived, everyone was already completely wound up, excited and ready to party.

Wedding Wednesday

2012-05-16T17:54:00.001-07:00

I am obsessed with this Santa Barbara outdoor wedding. I love the color scheme used here--purples, greens, oranges, bronze, and antique white make for a very colorful and fun outdoor wedding. The bride wore a beautiful strapless Monique Lhuillier gown and stunning Jimmy Choo shoes to complete this romantic, candlelit wedding.

All images courtesy of Stylemepretty.com

The Next Chapter

2012-05-14T11:26:00.000-07:00

Hello to all of my loyal readers!

I apologize for taking a month-long hiatus but I'm back! The past month has been an intimidating, yet exciting time. I successfully graduated from Pepperdine University on April 28, 2012, and spent the weekend with 30 of my closest friends and family members. We had a delightful brunch on the rooftop of Kristy's Wood Oven and Wine Bar in Malibu, complete with copious amounts of love, laughter, and joy.

Since then, I moved to Santa Monica and have been interning with Mindy Weiss nearly full time. I am sad to say that my College career is over but I am extremely proud of myself and my accomplishments that I made while at Pepperdine. While it was undoubtedly the most trying and difficult four years of my life, I made it out a much better person, friend, and employee. I learned that hard work really does pay off and that you should never give up on your dreams. I never gave up on my dreams while at Pepperdine and looking back, all of my dreams became a reality.

As I sit here writing this, I feel more blessed than ever and am so excited to jump feet-first into my career. I hope that one day, my career dreams will morph into an incredible reality. I am actively pursuing a career in the event-planning industry and cannot wait to keep all of you updated on my progress. This is a big week for me and I appreciate all of your prayers and positive thoughts. Here are some photos from my graduation weekend:

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.

Jenny & Jordan's Beautiful Love

2012-04-08T21:37:00.001-07:00

Images courtesy of stylemepretty.com

A collection of inspiring images

2012-03-24T13:16:00.003-07:00

I have been a bit removed from the whole blogging thing lately, and I apologize. There's really no excuse other than a creative block and the inability to find the inspiration to blog. I think I am finding my inspiration again and will resume posting more often. Here are some inspiring images that uplifted me today (thanks to Mindy Weiss and Stylemepretty):

Another Perfect Mindy Weiss Production

2012-03-15T22:09:00.004-07:00

This Mindy Weiss production is reminiscent of the world-famous royal wedding with its incredible flowers by the one and only Marks Garden and its creativity by Mindy Weiss. The event took place at one of my favorite venues ever--Rocky Oaks Vineyard in Malibu and was truly beautiful. The bride looked absolutely stunning n her custom made gown and her groom looked equally as dapper in his custom made tux. I love the romantic ivory, white, and lace combination in this incredible Malibu wedding. Enjoy!

Photos courtesy of stylemepretty.com

Smog Shoppe Wedding

2012-03-08T22:37:00.000-08:00

I am speechless over this wedding. I know that I always say that, but this is one for the books. This wedding is undeniably beautiful. Beautiful people, beautiful venue, beautiful gown, beautiful shoes, beautiful flowers, beautiful creativity, and the list goes on. Take a look for yourself and I guarantee you will be speechless too.

All images courtesy of stylemepretty.com

Stop Kony 2012

2012-03-07T16:50:00.002-08:00

Please watch this. It will change your life. Please get involved and do not wait--act now!!

kony2012.com

A delicately beautiful Australian Wedding

2012-03-05T22:10:00.000-08:00

I am in awe over this Tasmania wedding. This DIY wedding is simple, unique, and so perfect. The bride and groom could not have looked happier or more in love. I love the wine barrels with gorgeous purple flower arrangement and the delicate DIY touches like the 'Kalie & Will' wedding sign, the small bottles with flowers tied to the altars, and the hay stacks as chairs. This wedding represented the couple and their precious little family perfectly and could have been more beautiful.

Images courtesy of stylemepretty.com

Oh My Tulle

2012-03-04T20:49:00.000-08:00

Images courtesy of stylemepretty.com

Tulle is all the rage these days. I must say, I am loving the creativity and the uniqueness that is inspired by mass amounts of tulle. There is something so delicate, romantic, and refreshing that I cannot quite comprehend. Inspired by Vera Wang, the black wedding dress has arrived and is being worn by a number of fearless brides. Quite bold, but so inspiring to be a daring bride. What do you guys think?

60's inspired wedding ideas

2012-02-27T10:41:00.002-08:00

I am loving these unique, 60's inspired wedding ideas from this San Diego photo shoot. I love the combination of the beautiful white feathers with the glitzy gold and sequin table scape. Who knew that daisy's and peace signs would make a come back? I am arguing that with this shoot, they certainly are en route back!

Images courtesy of stylemepretty.com

Spanish festival vibe meets vintage elegance in this Australia wedding

2012-02-27T10:19:00.000-08:00

From the bride… We really wanted a Spanish festival vibe, mixed with vintage elegance. We wanted to celebrate the fact we were getting married on my parents property where I grew up in the country, but add some delicate, pretty touches with antique china, flowers absolutely everywhere and vintage pieces on display. I loved the idea of having soft, blush-colored bridesmaids’ dresses mixed with vibrant, gold, Indian-inspired jewellery, and set off by a lush garden setting and a relaxed, festive atmosphere. I guess you could say the wedding was a fusion of Spanish culture, Moroccan décor and vintage elegance.

Brett says his favorite memory was seeing me for the first time because I was smiling my head off. My favorite memory was dancing at our reception. We were so happy and oblivious to everyone — we are both terrible dancers but absolutely loved every minute of it together.

All images courtesy of Stylemepretty.com

Monday Inspiration

2012-02-27T09:58:00.002-08:00

"There will be dreams grander or humbler than your own, but there will never be a dream exactly like your own...for you are unique and more wondrous than you know."--Linda Staten

Napa Valley Wedding

2012-02-20T18:53:00.000-08:00

All images courtesy of stylemepretty.com

I am speechless over this romantic, airy, Napa Valley wedding. This New York couple chose a gorgeous estate owned by one of their friends in Napa for their perfect day. The bride looked absolutely perfect in Vera Wang and looked so unbelievably happy on what was surely one of the best days of her life.

A Mindy Weiss Party Consultants Palm Springs Production

2012-02-20T18:31:00.000-08:00

I found this wedding a while back and have been waiting for the right time to share it with all of you. Since I am interning at Mindy Weiss Party Consultants I feel an extra special connection to this perfect Palm Springs soiree. Planned by Kristen Daniel Schrock, a talented member of Mindy's team, this wedding is seriously perfect. This outdoor Palm Springs setting was the perfect setting for the the bride and groom to finally wed after 12 years of dating! The lovely bride looked incredible in Monique Lulliher and Jimmy Choo shoes, while the groom looked quite dapper in Paul Smith. The flowers were done by none other than the best, Marks Garden, and were truly perfect. Enjoy!

All images courtesy of stylemepretty.com

Happy Valentines Day to my Readers

2012-02-14T11:06:00.000-08:00

God’s Love Letter to you

Father’s Love Letter
An Intimate Message From God To You.

My Child,

You may not know me,
but I know everything about you.
Psalm 139:1

I know when you sit down and when you rise up.
Psalm 139:2

I am familiar with all your ways.
Psalm 139:3

Even the very hairs on your head are numbered.
Matthew 10:29-31

For you were made in my image.
Genesis 1:27

In me you live and move and have your being.
Acts 17:28

For you are my offspring.
Acts 17:28

I knew you even before you were conceived.
Jeremiah 1:4-5

I chose you when I planned creation.
Ephesians 1:11-12

You were not a mistake,
for all your days are written in my book.
Psalm 139:15-16

I determined the exact time of your birth
and where you would live.
Acts 17:26

You are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Psalm 139:14

I knit you together in your mother’s womb.
Psalm 139:13

And brought you forth on the day you were born.
Psalm 71:6

I have been misrepresented
by those who don’t know me.
John 8:41-44

I am not distant and angry,
but am the complete expression of love.
1 John 4:16

And it is my desire to lavish my love on you.
1 John 3:1

Simply because you are my child
and I am your Father.
1 John 3:1

I offer you more than your earthly father ever could.
Matthew 7:11

For I am the perfect father.
Matthew 5:48

Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand.
James 1:17

For I am your provider and I meet all your needs.
Matthew 6:31-33

My plan for your future has always been filled with hope.
Jeremiah 29:11

Because I love you with an everlasting love.
Jeremiah 31:3

My thoughts toward you are countless
as the sand on the seashore.
Psalms 139:17-18

And I rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17

I will never stop doing good to you.
Jeremiah 32:40

For you are my treasured possession.
Exodus 19:5

I desire to establish you
with all my heart and all my soul.
Jeremiah 32:41

And I want to show you great and marvelous things.
Jeremiah 33:3

If you seek me with all your heart,
you will find me.
Deuteronomy 4:29

Delight in me and I will give you
the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4

For it is I who gave you those desires.
Philippians 2:13

I am able to do more for you
than you could possibly imagine.
Ephesians 3:20

For I am your greatest encourager.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

I am also the Father who comforts you
in all your troubles.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4

When you are brokenhearted,
I am close to you.
Psalm 34:18

As a shepherd carries a lamb,
I have carried you close to my heart.
Isaiah 40:11

One day I will wipe away
every tear from your eyes.
Revelation 21:3-4

And I’ll take away all the pain
you have suffered on this earth.
Revelation 21:3-4

I am your Father, and I love you
even as I love my son, Jesus.
John 17:23

For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed.
John 17:26

He is the exact representation of my being.
Hebrews 1:3

He came to demonstrate that I am for you,
not against you.
Romans 8:31

And to tell you that I am not counting your sins.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19

His death was the ultimate expression
of my love for you.
1 John 4:10

I gave up everything I loved
that I might gain your love.
Romans 8:31-32

If you receive the gift of my son Jesus,
you receive me.
1 John 2:23

And nothing will ever separate you
from my love again.
Romans 8:38-39

Come home and I’ll throw the biggest party
heaven has ever seen.
Luke 15:7

I have always been Father,
and will always be Father.
Ephesians 3:14-15

My question is…
Will you be my child?
John 1:12-13

I am waiting for you.
Luke 15:11-32

Love, Your Dad
Almighty God

Monday Inspiration

2012-02-13T22:42:00.000-08:00

How gorgeous is this Santa Monica wedding by Kristin Banta events? This wedding is seriously perfect. No details were overlooked and the bride looked absolutely stunning. This fairytale white wedding complete with the most beautiful orchids and stellar candles is truly inspiring.

Here is another Kristin Banta production--a gorgeous wedding at the London Hotel in West Hollywood, CA. I absolutely love the vintage Victorian feel to this wedding. It is elegant but unique. The hydrangea's and orchid's were a perfect addition to the silver used in the candelabras and the table settings to accompany this perfect intimate setting that was both beautiful and inspiring.

All images courtesy of stylemepretty.com

Littleton Vow Renewal

2012-02-11T15:51:00.000-08:00

I am SERIOUSLY obsessing over this Littleton, Col. vow renewal. It is perfect. I loved the bride in Vera Wang and how they incorporated their precious daughter. The vintage details and intimate setting are incredible. This is from the bride: I really particularly enjoyed the intimate time that I got to spend with my mom and my daughter getting ready. Basically, all the things we missed the first time around … we got right this time. But one of most beautiful moments was when my hubby surprised me with a song he wrote for me, and I managed to surprise myself with being able to write and say my vows without too shedding too many tears. As photographers, pictures are such an important part of our life that we spent days putting together our old photos and hung from a thin rope that we hung all over the chandelier. It allowed for great dinner conversation while we feasted on all of our favorite food and drinks. We finished off the night with some very silly moments at our ever-so-famous Brinton photo booth. All in all, I think we would all agree it was perfect … very us!

Images courtesy of stylemepretty.com

Katie Kirkpatrick's Story

2012-02-08T20:55:00.000-08:00

This is Katie Kirkpatrick Godwin, a 21 year-old inspiration. Her story truly touched me tonight and put my life into perspective. She was a beautiful, courageous, strong bride who died just five days after her dream wedding. Katie, who was terminally ill--with cancer--for the second time, was determined to live. She was determined to marry the love of her life despite intense pain, morphine, and the inability to breathe without her oxygen tank. Her organs began to shut down but nothing stopped her from marrying Nick Godwin--her true love since 11th grade. Her dream did come true, in the photos pictured below, but sadly she did not defeat cancer. She is a true inspiration who proved that love conquers all and that without love we are nothing. She did not allow her cancer to interfere with her life, nor did it deprive her from her hope or faith. Her beautiful wedding proves that love never dies and that there is nothing we cannot face when we have someone by our side.

Wedding Wednesday

2012-02-08T17:10:00.000-08:00

Check out this beautiful bride in Oscar De La Renta and Jimmy Choo. She is truly stunning and chic--just like her wedding. This New York City wedding took place at the Grace Church Cathedral and the Harrison Restaurant. Their tablescape's were so unique and so perfect. Here are the beautiful images below:

Images courtesy of stylemepretty.com

How stunning is this Marthas Vineyard Setting?

2012-02-08T17:02:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Vintage/Antique Saskatchewan Wedding

2012-02-06T18:28:00.000-08:00

This DIY Canada Wedding is amazing. I absolutely love the vintage/antique aspect to it. The Canadian bride made multiple trips to thrift stores to collect vintage pieces for the centerpieces. She used lace and teacups and kept within a pink and turquoise theme. The bride even made the boutonnieres herself! Stylemepretty.

When a Wedding Planner Plans her own Wedding

2012-02-06T09:01:00.000-08:00

From the Bride… Being a wedding planner myself (I own Sweet Pea Studio in Chicago), it was really important to me to make sure my wedding was a reflection of me and my groom. From personal touches in the details to nods to our family and heritage, we really wanted to wedding to scream “Ian & Kristin.” To start, we had the exact same wedding venues as Ian’s grandparents did 60 years prior — same church, same reception. And I was really proud to be wearing “The Veil.” It was first purchased in 1920 in Belgium and given to Ian’s great grandmother by her husband-to-be. The veil, made of “Bruges lace,” was dipped in tea to get the ecru color. Since then, Ian’s grandmother, mother, sister, aunts and cousins have worn it on their wedding day. I was the 12th woman to proudly wear it down the aisle, and at each wedding, a “veil photo” is taken where everyone there who has worn it stands behind the bride, holding the veil. We had our rehearsal dinner at an Italian restaurant (my family is Italian), a bagpiper to pipe us out of the church (Ian is Scottish), and we had the Chicago Cubs Dixieland Band play during cocktail hour (my late great uncle was Phil Cavarretta, a famous Chicago Cubs baseball player back in the 1940s). Our wedding reception was held in the ballroom at the Woman’s Athletic Club on Michigan Ave, where Ian’s mother is a member. The building has landmark status in the city and has a gorgeous, 1920s feel to it.

The Beautiful Result

All Images Courtesy of Stylemepretty.com

Monday Inspiration

2012-02-06T08:56:00.000-08:00

Hope you all have a beautiful, inspiring Monday. Here is an absolutely stunning wedding that inspired me today.

Images courtesy of Stylemepretty.com

Wedding Wednesday Engagement Shoot & Wedding

2012-02-01T17:37:00.000-08:00

Christina & Isaiah Engagement Shoot

From the bride...

I saved a thumbnail of a dress back in 2009, not knowing the designer but loving everything about it. Almost 2 years later when I got engaged, I found out the designer of the dress (Melissa Sweet) and ended up buying it immediately. I didn’t have to even think about it! As far as colors, I knew I always wanted to just have shades of ivories and white (my favorite “color” since I was 12 years old). Having chandeliers was always part of my vision, and even though it was an outdoor wedding, I was happy to still be able to have them in the reception tent. Baking is my passion, so it was important for me to be able to have a variety of different cakes, and to at least put my touch on the wedding and make mini cupcakes for the favors/table numbers. Knowing I also wanted churros there, it made it easy for me to settle on having Mexican food. I planned my wedding in 10 months, stayed mostly in budget, ran into practically no problems, and was extremely happy with the outcome. In the end, all I really wanted were my friends, family, and then-fiance and I to have fun, and I think it was successful!

Their perfect, Southern California 'ivory' wedding

Photos & Bride Excerpts from Inspired By This