Tulle and Taffeta

Yet Another Blog Update {The One That’s Taking Forever}

2010-04-13T05:04:00.000-07:00

…..{insert ginourmous sigh of frustration here}…..

{The Bad News}

As you can see, I am still not done with my blog makeover. Believe me, no one is more frustrated than I at this point. Unfortunately there was a major setback when we realized that apparently the HTML coding for Mac internet browsers vs. PC internet browsers were drastically different. I have never wanted Mac and PC to get along more than I do right now. As if it couldn’t have happened at a better time than 5 minutes before we were about to make the new template live last weekend. As a result, I have spent the past week wanting very little to do with such a frustrating situation, and have taken an HTML vacation to recharge my emotions after they were so dramatically deflated.

{The Good News!}

This means that I am moving my blog! I am getting my own website soon and will be publishing the blog there rather than at my troublesome blogspot. Supposedly this won’t take as long since we have the design we’ve just gotta get it up and running somewhere else…of course the fact that I have been putting it off does not help speed anything up.

I’ll be honest too and admit that this probably couldn’t have come at a better point in my personal life as well. The blogging break has given me the ability to handle other major things in my life, which most of you are aware of already. It has certainly made a world of difference, even just in this last week, to not have the added task of blogging as tiny as that task may be.

I know it is silly to post consistently for a couple of months and then stop for a while and still consider myself a legit blogger, but somehow I still do. Even though I am just getting started, I feel like Tulle and Taffeta has already glued itself to being a part of my routine and lifestyle (as up in the air as my schedule tends to be). Its comforting to have a place where I can organize my creative ideas; somewhere constant to go back to. At the same time, I love the challenge of something new that is pulling me out of my comfort zone and forcing me to enter into this seemingly endless cyberspace. There’s also a pretty noticeable difference with my creative side wanting somewhere to express itself. The artist in me wants so desperately to pursue anything and everything creative and beautiful which has resulted in quite a few shopping sprees in search of new fashion. At least my blog doesn’t hurt my wallet so much.

All of that is to say that I will definitely be back and better than ever, and hopefully it will be worth the wait. Until then…

Blog Makeover Update {Slow and Steady}

2010-03-19T10:23:00.001-07:00

I feel so torn right now. The design for the new blog template is in place and I am stoked about it. Imagining my new posts going up right now on this old blog design just doesn’t feel right after seeing what it will be. On the other hand the creative side of my brain feels like is it backlogged with so many ideas that need an outlet through posting.

I am too much of a perfectionist to post my new ideas on this “so-yesterday” blog design, so I think that I will continue to focus on my war against HTML, rounded corners, and the dreaded third column. So far it’s about Brittany: 3 and HTML: 24, but I am slowly bending it to my will and am determined to conquer the coding with elegance and flare.

I’m crossing my fingers in hopes to be back in action in a week (or two), but there is still so much to be done!

Until next time!

BLOG MAKEOVER {Moving On Up}

2010-03-08T01:58:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends! I am very excited to announce that I am in the process of remodeling my blog. When I am done it is going to blow your mind! Until then though, my posting will probably be few and far between because all of my blogging time is now going towards:

Graphics for the new layout
Research for how to create the new layout I want
Phone calls with my very supportive father/computer guru helping with the dreaded HTML
Bettering my blogging skills overall

I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised that it is taking so much time, but once I get going on a major project like this, trying to stop me is like trying to stop a semi truck with your bare hands; impossible. I wish I could tell you when the big debut will be, but alas I have absolutely no idea how much longer this will take. Being the perfectionist and visionary that I am, I will probably never finish! If that’s the case, it was fun while it lasted.

{Sneak preview of a graphic for my new blog}

LOVE TALK {The One with Jack and Joy}

2010-03-05T01:28:00.000-08:00

Clive Staples Lewis is someone who knew how to love everyone around him. Some of you may know him as the author of the Chronicles of Narnia, but I know him as a man who truly understood love. He always put others before himself, and sometimes that included people who took advantage of his kindness, but it didn’t matter. If you enjoy reading a good biography, I would highly recommend the one written by his stepson, Douglas Gresham.

{His Story} Unfortunately he and his wife had a short lived relationship due to her passing away from cancer very early in their life together. Lewis knows the heartache of loss well, but he was able to cling to love to get him through. I feel like part of marriage is about learning how to love someone, but Lewis and Joy already knew how to do that, and they soaked up every moment they had together.

I read once that Jack (as he liked to be called) cared so much for Joy, that he prayed that he would be able to take the burden of her pain so that she would not have to suffer it herself. He prayed so hard, and for one night he was struck with such a paralyzing pain he knew was hers. That same night she was able to have the strength to get out of bed and enjoy an evening with her children for one of the last times. If only I could be that lucky someday too; to be able to know how to truly and deeply love someone in such an extraordinary way, even if only for a short time.

{Question} Do any of you have a story they've heard or experienced about a love that looks like this? I would love to hear them if you don't mind sharing!

MUSE BOARD {The One with the Rainbow}

2010-03-04T01:53:00.000-08:00

For the young at heart who just love color, this may be for you. I would love to see a wedding as bright as this in person. The water balloons are a creative idea that I have not seen before. For a casual outdoor wedding on a warm day, I’m sure a lot of guests would enjoy a nice balloon toss to cool off and have some fun. The punch bowls and lollipops are fun too. Incorporating your color scheme into your menu is always a great way to help set the mood. This mood is definitely a lively and fun one.

{Fuchsia, Aqua, Lemon Yellow, Apple Green, & Orange}

Lollipops Water Balloons Bridesmaids Punch Bowls Bridal Party Centerpieces

STRIKE A POSE {The One with the Coke-a-Cola Shoot}

2010-03-02T01:09:00.000-08:00

What an adorable picnic idea! I love the vintage feel, with the old-fashioned coke backdrop. I also love that she is pulling off red lipstick! Its little ideas like these that make me feel like the sky is the limit as far as engagement shoots go. Have fun, and enjoy being in love while doing it.

MUSE BOARD {The One with a Rustic Spring Palette}

2010-03-01T01:12:00.000-08:00

There are so many greens that would go great with gray and yellow, and this board could have turned out many different ways. I do love that these are normally spring colors but somehow when you add the rustic feel it easily becomes a summer or fall wedding theme. I love the washed out wood that looks gray, as well as the silver accessories that could be added for some flair. A rich mossy green would really pop and make it the more dominate color. Thanks for the color suggestion Courtney!

{Charcoal Gray, Olive Green, Ivory, Taupe, & splashes of Canary Yellow}

{Credits} Bridesmaids Hairpiece Bridesmaids in Boots Flowers Yellow Dress

LOVE TALK {The One with the Quote in the Window}

2010-02-26T13:53:00.000-08:00

I know it’s been a little while since I last posted! Going to the Olympics last week was absolutely amazing, but also incredibly exhausting. I have yet to catch up on my laundry let alone my blog. This weekend will be well spent, that’s for sure!

A friend of mine e-mailed this quote to me, and I immediately printed it and put it up by my computer as a great reminder! It’s so easy for me to get stuck in a rut and just forget to look for the good. Sometimes I think that there is no good to be found, but when I stop to look for it I realize that it has been starring me right in the face the whole time.

Maybe I’m reaching for it with this quote, but I can really see how it applies to a wedding day too. Everyone hopes it will be their dream come true but there are always the select few weddings when very big things do go wrong (heaven forbid that happen to any of you). Sometimes you can’t control the disasters, but you can always control your attitude towards them. I think the greatest advice I can give a couple and their families is that there comes a point when you just have to let go and enjoy whatever comes. Do what you can to prepare for the special day, but making sure the flowers are perfect and the fruit tray is laid out properly should never get between you and celebrating the love that you’ve all gathered for. No matter what happens, even if the cake falls over on top of grandma, remember that you are with your loved ones, and you are about to start an amazing new adventure with your soul mate. That is the good in a wedding, everything else is just icing on the cake.

PICK YOUR OWN PALETTE {What Would You Like to See?}

2010-02-15T12:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday everyone! Today I am hanging with some of the worlds greatest athletes (well…watching them is more like it), at the 2010 Winter Olympics!! I can’t even tell you how excited I am to be here. But I didn’t want to leave you hanging on my vaca.

{INTRODUCING} something I am very excited about! I want to give you guys the opportunity to put some color scheme ideas together, and I will make the muse board for ya! So basically, you get to do all the fun stuff, and I’ll do the hard work. {Just for the record, I am not low on inspiration by any means, but I thought this would be fun for you guys.} So are you getting married soon and want to bounce your color scheme idea off me? Or do you just have a great combo you’d like to see come to life? Either way, let me know what you want! I can’t guarantee how fast it’ll come, but I’ll do my best.

THANK YOU {The One with the Dessy Inspiration Board Contest}

2010-02-13T22:42:00.000-08:00

I am so grateful for everyone who voted for me, and am excited to announce that I was lucky enough to actually win! I did not expect that I had a chance when I made these, but you guys were all so great in supporting me, I hope you enjoyed them as much as I enjoyed making them! Thank you!

You can watch the rest of the competition at The Perfect Palette. Thanks for playin with me!

MUSE BOARD {The One with the Champion Colors}

2010-02-12T01:59:00.000-08:00

THE DESSY INSPIRATION BOARD CONTEST
Where did I get this inspiration? Well, perhaps it may have something to do with the fact that I am leaving TODAY for Whistler to see the first week of the 2010 WINTER OLYMPICS! I get to see my family from across the country, along with a million other people from all over the world, all gathered to celebrate our greatest athletes. And you can bet while I will be enjoying some of the finest competition, I will also be able to find love there too! I will keep my eye out while I’m up there for you guys, to see if I can find any weddings, or other ideas for those Olympians among us. I am excited to come back with some fun ideas, as well as a much lighter wallet. I hope you all enjoy your weekend and next week!
VOTE HERE

MUSE BOARD {The One Made of Plums & Pears}

2010-02-11T01:05:00.000-08:00

THE DESSY INSPIRATION BOARD CONTEST
For this one, mainly I just wanted to feature the absolutely gorgeous floral backdrop at the altar, as well as the fun purple suit. I love both of them, and figured I should put them together for twice the wow effect. Purple and gray are really popular right now, and green is a great natural color to add. Check out my board, and others online, and don’t forget to vote!
VOTE FOR MY BOARD!

VOTE HERE

MUSE BOARD {The One with Sunshine on a Cloudy Day}

2010-02-10T01:18:00.000-08:00

THE DESSY INSPIRATION BOARD CONTEST!
What a better way to embrace the northwest than to plan a “dark and cloudy” wedding, but liven it up with such a sunny color? I absolutely love the bride in rain boots, it is what inspired all of this. This bride didn’t have to worry about the weather on her day, she was prepared either way! Talk about a creative way to relieve some stress on your big day. Sometimes I stop myself from wearing yellow over the winter because I feel like it is more of a summer color, but perhaps we should all reconsider the possibility of bringing sunshine into our lives more often.
VOTE FOR MY BOARD!

VOTE FOR ME

MUSE BOARD {The One with Warm Summer Fun}

2010-02-09T01:14:00.000-08:00

THE DESSY INSPIRATION BOARD CONTEST
Is anyone else ready for summer? I keep looking at my adorable summer clothing, excited for the day I don’t have to add layers to them again. This is another inspiration board I made for the Dessy Group Contest. Like what you see? Click on the link below and let Dessy know you love it! Oh, and question for all of you. Does anyone else think that Dessy’s male model (featured below) looks a little like a weird version of Logan Huntzberger from Gilmore Girls? Or does he look like someone else?
VOTE FOR ME!

CLICK HERE TO VOTE FOR ME!

MUSE BOARD {The One with the Vibrant Winter Wedding}

2010-02-08T01:26:00.000-08:00

THE DESSY MUSE BOARD CONTEST
One of my favorite wedding blogs has gotten together with the Dessy Group to create a little competition, which I have entered! I actually got this color palette inspiration from a bottle of Sake I saw at Uwajimaya the other night. Yes, inspiration can sometimes come from the silliest things. The colors just looked so elegant together, I had to try it, and I must say I am pleased with the results. Mostly muted colors with a bright splash of red says elegant and bold to me. Help me win this competition (and a few choice prizes) by voting for me! Learn more about the contest by clicking here.
VOTE FOR ME!

VOTE FOR THIS BOARD!

STRIKE A POSE {The One Just Like Titanic}

2010-02-04T01:21:00.000-08:00

Granted, this pose first reminds me of one thing: Leonardo and Kate standing on the bow of Titanic pretending to fly. Now if there is anyone who snickered at that scene in the movie, you were right there with me. However, the way I figure it, your wedding day is the perfect excuse for those of you like me, who shy away from admitting that a moment like this wouldn’t be so terrible. In life there is a fine line between over the top sap, and the genuine incandescently perfect moments. For those of us who sometimes teeter on that line, it’s nice to have a day when no one will penalize you for letting go, opening your heart, and feeling every single ounce of love possible. Maybe there are a few who continue to snicker to themselves during the ceremony or the first dance, but don’t let that stop you from experiencing and enjoying it all. If anything, those cynics could use a good dose of completely sappy movie moments come to life in front of them. If you’re truly in love, own it! Don’t let anyone stop you!

Wishing this couple a happier ending than Jack and Rose…

MUSE BOARD {The One with the Rose Garden Necklace}

2010-02-03T01:15:00.000-08:00

I said that I would make a wedding inspired for this necklace I love so much. To be honest, I am surprised at how it turned out, since pink isn’t usually what I am drawn to. I found almost everything I needed for this design on Etsy, and am now convinced that you could decorate your entire hand-crafted wedding with only Etsy items. (If you’re looking for bargains, that may not be the way to do it, but all the items are absolutely breathtaking.) I picture this wedding taking place at a very elegant courtyard garden, next to a building with marble flooring, and ivory stone walls with beautiful archways. A dream venue for the dream wedding.

I looked up the meaning of the Pink Rose (every color rose means something different). The light pink color represents happiness, appreciation, and admiration. All very good qualities to wish a couple starting the long journey ahead of them. Happiness in the perfect moments, appreciation for how far they’ve come together, and mutual admiration and respect for each other to get them through the hard times.

{Silver, Ivory, Rose Pink & Platinum}

{Credits} Wedding Dress, Cake, & Toasting Glasses Necklace, Bridesmaid Dress, Flowers, Bird Cake Topper

EMILY SAYS… {The One About Money}

2010-02-02T01:56:00.000-08:00

Why take my word for it when you could hear from the truest wedding expert of them all? Emily Post was the queen of etiquette, and weddings were and still are well recognized as a place to practice her rules. Etiquette is often the backbone of every wedding tradition, and in the spirit of weddings, it wouldn’t be fair to ignore them here.
I wanted to start by relaying what she says about choosing a color scheme, but ironically enough, this is one of the few things she created structure for. She simply says that this is a choice that can come from the season, the flowers, the formality of the occasion, or anything else. So couples, have fun being creative, and don’t let anyone else stop you, since Emily sure won’t!
Instead I will talk about the ever popular topic of $$$$$. Who traditionally pays for the wedding? I once thought the answer was as simple as “the bride’s parents” too, but it’s not. Here is a simplified version of Emily’s list.

My favorite part of this way of laying out the cost is the symbolism I see in what the groom pays for. It reminds me of the phrase “chivalry isn’t dead.” The groom traditionally pays for the vital parts of the wedding. Not that the rest of the wedding isn’t important, but without what he pays for you’ve just got yourself a fancy party. He covers the officiant fee, the marriage license, and just because he is a gentlemen, he pays for all the flowers for the brides and honored females. He also pays for the honeymoon. To me it is symbolic of a man taking on the role of supporting another person (not that the woman can’t do that as well). It’s only a gesture, but it’s definitely a sweet one.
Even though this is what Emily says, it’s not set in stone. The best way to determine who is paying for what is to sit down and have an honest conversation with everyone involved. It is important to remember that no family member is required to pay for anything, and the bride and groom should wait for it to be offered.
Now-a-days, the average cost of weddings is around $27,000 (which is a decline since the recession, as the average a few years ago was around $35K). If you live in a major city you can expect that price to increase by about 20%. [these are not exact stats]. These weddings are based on the fact that most have a budget of up to 6 incomes (bride, groom, and if both sets of parents are divorced; 4 parental families). That number may sound daunting, but I have heard it put an interesting way. Your wedding begins your marriage, that lasts at least 50 years. A $30,000 wedding day for a 50 year investment is only $1.64 per day. {I am not saying I agree or disagree with that approach, I just wanted to pass it along :)}
If you’re putting that much into a wedding, I sure hope you’re investing in a good photographer and videographer in order to make sure the memories last forever!

STRIKE A POSE {The One Underwater}

2010-02-01T01:23:00.000-08:00

Oh yes they did! Would you dare? An even better question would be, how much would you have to pay a photographer to get in there with you? I know a few brides who have chosen to have a photo shoot after their wedding and crawl into the water with their gown, I believe the technical term is a “trash the dress photo shoot.” It makes for some great photos, at the price of ruining a dress that will most likely never be worn again anyway. What do you guys think, is it worth it?

HAPPY SATURDAY {The One with A Lot of Audrey}

2010-01-30T01:39:00.000-08:00

I hope this week inspired a few people to pull out a few of their favorite Audrey movies and watch them for the 100th time. I definitely had fun making them, and am hoping to find something or someone else just as inspiring for another round of new ideas.

{POLL: Which Audrey wedding inspiration was your favorite?} Let me know, leave a comment!

MUSE BOARD {The One with the Sassy Side of Audrey}

2010-01-29T01:28:00.000-08:00

{A WEEK OF AUDREY HEPBURN}

A vision in red! We all know she has this sassy red side to her, and I saved it for last. What a classy and bright affair to behold. Red is always show stopping, and so is Audrey. The quote below is just great if you ask me.

{Black, White, and Sassy Red}

{Credits} Audrey Hepburn Rose and Pearl Centerpieces Audrey in Red Wedding Dress Vintage Car Cake

MUSE BOARD {The One with the Classy Side of Audrey}

2010-01-28T01:17:00.000-08:00

{A WEEK OF AUDREY HEPBURN}

There’s really no debate as to whether Audrey is always classy, even in her more comedic movies. She always has a certain poise in her stature and speech that is rarely found in one person. This classy black, white and ivory wedding was the first one inspired by Audrey. After I made this one, I realized that I needed to get to know her a little more and see if she was a muse for more weddings. Low and behold I found a variety of weddings that merely shadow the many sides of this actress. I love this quote too. The detail I love the most in this one is the typewriter guest book; very creative.

{Damask, Ivory, Black & White}

{Credits} Bridesmaids in Boots Table Setting Bouquet Damask Tie Typewriter Guest Book Audrey Hepburn Etsy Wedding Favors Necklace Boutonnieres Bride and Bouquet Mum Photo

MUSE BOARD {The One with the Sweet Side of Audrey}

2010-01-27T01:06:00.000-08:00

{A WEEK OF AUDREY HEPBURN}

We don’t usually see this side of Audrey but I think I had the most fun making this sweet country wedding design. Isn’t she just adorable on her bike with a dog in the basket? How much sweeter can ya get?

{Sky Blue, Pearl Pink, and Khaki}

{Credits} Vintage Brooch Bouquet Ring Photo Table Setting Flowers Audrey Hepburn Vintage Car

MUSE BOARD {The One with The Fair Side of Audrey}

2010-01-26T01:57:00.000-08:00

{A WEEK OF AUDREY HEPBURN}

The rain in Spain stays mainly in the plane. Anyone else absolutely love My Fair Lady. You could dance all night at a wedding inspired by this extraordinary love story. Do any of you have a modern day version of that story? Whatever your story is, wouldn’t it be fun to build your wedding theme around a movie that reflects you and your love’s story?

{Peach, Black & White}

{Credits} Window Audrey Hepburn Gold Shoes Mr. and Mrs. Peach Heels Bride Photo Black and White Bouquet

MUSE BOARD {The One with the Fancy Side of Audrey}

2010-01-25T01:44:00.000-08:00

{A WEEK OF AUDREY HEPBURN}

Audrey Hepburn, the magnetically charming woman that has captured the hearts of so many. She has inspired a variety of things, one of which is most definitely love. I started by making one wedding inspire by her, and realized that there was a lot of ideas left, so I just had to make a week of it. I hope you enjoy it as much I did making it!

{Classic Black & White}

{Credits} Invitation Audrey Hepburn Wedding Bouquet Wreath and Frame Chandelier Bridesmaid Dress Lace Flowers Wedding Dress

LOVE TALK {The One with Robert Heinlein}

2010-01-22T01:09:00.000-08:00

This quote is phenomenal. The part of true love that is easily forgotten is the selflessness of it. Would you put your love’s happiness over your own? I think this is most commonly seen in the love a parent has for their child. If their child is hurting, a parent will hurt just as much if not more. If there is anything a mother can do to take away the pain of her child, she would do it no matter what her cost. That is the love Robert is talking about. But why is it less often seen in the love between a man and a woman? There are a few couples I see it in, but not as many as I would like. I admit that I try to love this way and it is difficult. It’s easy to get caught up in whether or not I am getting what I want out of a relationship, rather than what I am giving to it. Why is it so natural and easy for a mother to love this way, and much more difficult in other relationships? What would the world look like if we all focused on looking first at what we can give to a relationship before looking for what we can get out of it?

MUSE BOARD {The One with the Evergreens}

2010-01-21T01:03:00.000-08:00

I made this for a friend of mine who was trying to pick a color scheme for her wedding this summer. She really liked the burnt orange and green look that is very in right now. I made up a Pacific Northwest version of this scheme just for fun. Pinecones and evergreen branches are common commodities out here, and great budget saver resources for the DIY Bride. The terra cotta pots as centerpieces are a wonderfully unique touch. The details are elegantly simplistic, just by using what nature has provided. This is the perfect theme for a fall wedding at a rustic lodge, for the sophisticated outdoorsy couple.

{Terra Cotta, Evergreen, & Chocolate Brown}

{Credits} Invitation Set, Program, and Flowers Adorable Evergreen Bracelet Invitation

STRIKE A POSE {The One with Bright Red Balloons}

2010-01-19T01:12:00.000-08:00

This section is dedicated to creative couples who have found new ways to pose for photos. Usually a photographer will ask you beforehand what poses you would like to make sure to have, and here is an idea to get you going.

Who says your photo shoot has to be full of lovey-dovey photos. Add some humor to your engagement shoot. If you and your sweetie enjoy laughing and having a great time, let your shoot show it. Its all about having fun and being yourselves. A good photographer will get to know you as a couple and help find poses that suit you best.

MUSE BOARD {The One with Pools of Sunshine}

2010-01-18T01:22:00.000-08:00

For the couples setting the date in the summer time, here is a great palette of bright and lively colors. These colors can brighten any day and add to the cheery and joyful occasion your wedding will be. Even if the weather outside is gloomy on your special day, no one will notice with such vibrant colors setting the mood.

Shades of teal can often look wonderful together but be careful not to mix the wrong ones. Teals and turquoise are made of a combination of blue and green, and each shade will have an obvious dominate color. This palette includes teals in the blue family. When your shopping for your teal decorations ask yourself which undertone you see before committing. Other than the undertone of the color, just about any shade will fit with your vibrant scheme.

{Juniper, Pool, and Lemon Yellow}

{Credits} Bride in Vintage Car Invitation Bowl of Lemons Bridesmaid Dresses Napkin Holders DIY Petal Mobile Cake and Bride Bridal Bouquet Bride and Groom

LOVE TALK {The One with Jeremy Taylor}

2010-01-15T01:11:00.000-08:00

I hardly think this quote needs an explanation. Jeremy Taylor on the other hand sounds like an interesting guy. Not all of his quotes have to do with love or marriage, but he has some interesting things to say. I’ve only skimmed a few, but I do enjoy them. This one in particular is a favorite of mine. Let me know what you think.

LITTLE THINGS {The One with the Fingerprint Wedding Bands}

2010-01-14T01:22:00.000-08:00

This is an adorable idea. Why not personalize your wedding bands by getting your loved one’s fingerprint embossed on the ring? A wedding ring already symbolizes so many things, and now it can represent the fingerprints that have been left on your heart. Maybe it doesn’t have to be that sappy, but for those of you who are searching for something a little less dramatic than tattooing your soul mate’s name on your back, this could be a nice replacement. You can find them various places, but this one in particular is from one of my favorite sources: Etsy.

HOMEMADE TOUCH {The One with the Cut Out Save-The-Dates}

2010-01-13T01:34:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite save the date ideas from Martha Stewart Weddings. If you have the time (or a few willing bridesmaids), this could also be a money saver as well. It is unique and memorable and sure to get everyone excited for the creative wedding to come.

{Supplies} Cardstock or patterned paper (enough for the envelops and cut out letters), ribbon (between .5-1 yard for each save-the-date), stamps, small hole puncher.
{Tips} You can purchase envelopes various places, but you can also make them yourself. There are plenty of envelope templates you can find online, or you can cut the template out with a die cut machine. You’ll also want to use a die cutting machine for cutting out the numbers, which will save you loads of time.
If you’ve never used a die cut machine, you’re in for a treat. Die cuts are pre-made stencils that cut the paper flawlessly so you don’t have to. Just run the paper through it and you’ve got yourself a perfect envelope outline ready to be folded. You can purchase your own (and feel your wallet get a little bit lighter) or you can find one if your town (usually found at select scrapbooking stores) and pay for time to use it.
If you’re interested in purchasing your own die cutting machine, I would recommend either a Sizzix or a Xyron. If you’re looking for a one time use deal, start by searching your local scrapbooking and craft stores. Ask if they have a die cut station, and how much they charge for its use. For Seattle residents, there’s no better place than Lasting Memories in Lynnwood.
You can choose to use your die-cut machine for anything from your save-the-dates all the way to your thank you cards, it’s a great resource for the DIY Bride.

BEYOND TAFFETA {The One About Picking Your Wedding Style}

2010-01-12T01:32:00.000-08:00

Have you found the perfect theme for your wedding yet? Maybe you’ve bee racking your brain and just haven’t come up with anything. Maybe you’ve thought of a million different themes and color schemes and haven’t been able to commit to just one.
The theme is an important decision for your wedding, but it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming one. In fact, there could be a lot of fun added to it.

{Your Style} Start by sitting down with your fiancé, and evaluating what kind of personality you have as a couple. Are you hip and fun? Try bright colors and modern decorations. Are you traditional and sophisticated? Muted or soft colors with black, gold or silver would make a wonderful evening. Perhaps you are opposites attracted to each other by your polarities, in which case you could have a lot of fun combining your personalities to create a unique wedding theme all your own. Having a hard time defining your “couple style” (kudos to Bride Wars for that phrase)? Ask your friends to give you three words that describe each of you. Just remember that every color and theme offers a different mood to its environment. You’re sure to find one that will scream the future Mr. and Mrs. (insert your name here).

Photos Courtesy of The Knot

{Your Season} The second thing to consider when choosing a wedding theme and color scheme is the season you’re getting married in. The rules are pretty basic, and there is always room to break them if you want too. Spring is the season for pastels, summer sun brightens everything, fall brings everything down to earth tones, and winter shimmers in silver, gold and white. Nature, especially for an outdoor wedding, will always have a say in the atmosphere, and sometimes we have to succumb to mother nature.

Photos Courtesy of Martha Stewart Weddings

{Your Reception Time} This is something that always gets overlooked, but Emily Post says that the formality of your wedding is determined by the time of day the reception is set for. The later in the evening the wedding is set for, the more formal the evening will be, and the more formal the theme should be set to. Granted, if a bride is set on a backyard BBQ at sunset, Emily won’t go knocking on her door. If you’re a bride looking for some extra guidance, or if you’re at all like me and prefer the structure, this is considered a standard rule. An evening reception typically implies an elegant affair.

MUSE BOARD {The One with Pink and Gold}

2010-01-11T01:31:00.000-08:00

The royalty of gold and softness of pink. Pink can add a variety of moods to an occasion, but in this muse board I decided to use it for a fun yet fancy vibe, and the gold (as always) for a classic fanciful feel. The teacups and champagne flutes add to an old fashioned wedding theme, but the dessert table, save-the-dates, and invitation add a modern touch as well.

{Venetian Gold, Carnation Pink, & Ivory}

{Credits} Gold Ring Bearer Pillow Save the Date & Tea Cups Bride and Groom Dessert Table Invitation

THE LITTLE THINGS {The One with the Vintage Flowers}

2009-12-20T20:36:00.000-08:00

I never thought that I would like this large flower style, but it has really grown on me. It’s definitely a bold accessory, but if you want to do something different for your wedding, do it and wear it proudly! For all of the DIY and budget brides out there, these craft projects are probably fairly easily duplicated. I am so glad that brides wearing colorful sashes is more popular now, because I just love a little splash of color.

Blue Flower Headpiece Double Bloom Dress Sash Aqua Silk Ring Pillow Three Bloom Vintage Sash Peach Headband Marilyn Birdcage Veil Ivory Feather Birdcage Veil

WEDDINGS 101 {The One About Tulle & Taffeta}

2009-12-08T09:18:00.000-08:00

I spent a lot of time thinking about a name for my blog, but once I decided on this name (I thought it had a nice ring to it), I realized I would probably need to explain it to a few people. My father and boyfriend were, as expected, clueless as to what tulle and taffeta are. As a wedding planner it’s embarrassing to admit that I too, didn’t know the names of the fabric either until not too long ago.
So I did some research, and am now quite educated on these fabrics, and I thought I would share a few snippets with you.
{TULLE: a thin netted, often stiffened, silk, nylon, or rayon fabric}

{Credits} Wedding Dress Spools of Tulle Petticoat Wedding Favors Tulle Bows Tulle Fabric Wedding Veil

{HISTORY} Tulle was invented in Britain in the 1800’s, and was popularized by the Parisian ballet (seen used as tutus). The net fabric is named after the city Tulle in France.
{USES} This very durable fabric can be used in a variety of ways. It’s most common use is in garments, particularly veils and wedding dresses. (Personally, I just adore tulle skirts.) They are also used for petticoats to help the dress skirt puff out. Tulle is also a great decorative accessory as well, as bows, garlands, tent ceilings, or wrappings for favors. This fabric is also well known for net canopies to keep bugs out.
There aren’t very many weddings you’ll go to where Tulle doesn’t attend as well.

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{TAFFETA: a crisp, smooth, plain-woven fabric with a slight sheen.}

{Credits} Gold Taffeta Table Linens Flower Girl Dress Bridesmaid Dress Wedding Dress Vest and Bow Tie Red Taffeta

{HISTORY} Taffeta, (formerly spelled taffety) is thought to have originated in Persia. It’s name means “twisted woven.” There are two types of textures; the soft piece-dyed taffeta that used in linings, and the more popular yarn-dyed taffeta which is stiff and sheen. (I like to call it the loud fabric, because you can hear just about every movement in it.)
{USES} This fabric is often seen in the formal wear. From the bride to the flower girl, and from the groom to the ring bearer, someone is most likely wearing this fabric. Because of it’s stiff nature, the designs can be very creative and add a variety of textures to a garment. Taffeta is also seen as linens, curtains, bows, ribbons, and (having nothing to do with weddings whatsoever) is sometimes used for electrical insulation. A very handy fabric indeed.

THE LITTLE THINGS {The One with the Vintage Rose Necklace}

2009-12-07T16:48:00.000-08:00

{Vintage Necklace}

I fell in love with this necklace the minute I saw it. If you knew me, you would probably be surprised because this isn’t exactly my style, but there is just something so breathtaking about it, and I just can’t help myself. Between the gorgeous shade of silver, the bird, the bow and the flowers, I honestly think I could design an entire wedding around this necklace…maybe I will. If I had an occasion to wear this to, you can bet it would have been shipped overnight to me!

MUSE BOARD {The One with the Vintage Theme}

2009-12-06T03:00:00.000-08:00

I don’t know much about past decades, but when I see pictures like this, I wonder if I was born in the wrong one. There is something so elegant, and yet so lively and fun about this style. It’s a very classic theme for a wedding, yet it’s beauty and wow-factor never seem to fade. The muted pastels are a lovely palette to work with, although they may be a bit more difficult to track down than the standard colors. Either way, pearls are always available, and vintage style is making a come back!

{Quartz, Blush, Mint, Palomino, Ivory, and Buttercup}

{Credits} Pearl Necklace Earrings Wedding Dress Cake Clutch Purse Flower Headband Garter Shoes

Love Talk {The One with Anais Nin}

2009-12-05T00:21:00.001-08:00

Happy Weekend! As excited as I am to post wedding pictures and inspirations galore, I’m equally excited for my “Love Talk” section which will be full of inspirational quotes. Love is what getting married is all about after all, so why not talk about it! And speaking of love...I just loooove this quote!

I really like what this quote implies. To me it seems like we hear the word “love” far too much in this world, and it has lost it’s impact. I mean, I can love my family but I can also love my favorite flannel shirt? I hope that each of us can have people in our lives that renew the power that this word was meant to bring.