Manette Gracie Events

We've Moved!

2012-01-15T20:48:00.001-08:00

Find the new Manette Gracie Events Website here: www.manettegracie.com

Corky

2011-11-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Lauren, my trusty bar-tending friend was collecting corks from a recent event we were at together.
Her plan is to make a cork board. But it got me thinking about all the other fun things you can do with corks, wedding (and non-wedding related). Enjoy these fun DIY ideas!

Manette Gracie Wedding at the Monte Cristo Ballroom {Everett, WA}

2011-10-27T11:57:00.000-07:00

Check out these lovely pictures from Sarah Alston Photography from Angela and Brendan's celebration at the Monte Cristo Ballroom in Everett early last summer. This adorable couple had so many fun details (including their lovely flowers by Geneva Diane Designs-- check out that bouquet!)

All photographs by Sarah Alston Photography

These fun records were their guest book. The labels were designed and downloaded for free from The Wedding Chicks website.

This incredible bouquet was prepared by Geneva Diane Designs.

Angela made this fun pinwheels that we lined the aisle with.

We lined the mantle with these fun lanterns, purchased from another bride off craigslist.

Best in the West...

2011-09-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

Manette Gracie Events is up at the beautiful Hotel de Haro in the San Juan Islands this weekend for a fun-filled fall wedding. However, before we left we got our fall issue of Sunset Magazine in the mail, which listed some of their favorite hotels of the west.

We thought we'd share a few of their top picks...

The Inn at Langley (Whidbey Island). Yes, they do weddings there! Here's a link for more wedding info.

Photo: Pacific Northwest Vacations

Hotel Andra (Seattle/Belltown) was another top pick. With rooms starting at under $200, the Hotel Andra might be a great place for out of town guests!

Four Seasons (Whistler, BC). The Whistler Four Seasons would make a great wedding or honeymoon location (here's a link to their wedding page). This would make the ultimate winter wedding (did someone say slope-side hot tubs??)

Post Ranch Inn (Big Sur, CA). This place is the ultimate honeymoon getaway. Includes private hiking trails and free yoga classes...

Finally, if Manette Gracie was going to add a hotel, to Sunset's list, (for a fun fall/winter wedding location) it would be The Dome Room at the Arctic Club Hotel (Seattle). We just coordinated our first wedding there last month, and can affirm it is absolutely beautiful.

Other Manette Gracie favorite hotel locations include include:

Thornewood Castle (Lakewood, WA)
Areus B&B (Walla Walla, WA)
Woodmark Hotel (Kirkland, WA)--see pictures from Maria and Kris's wedding here!
Alderbrook Resort (Union, WA)
Monte Cristo Ballroom (Everett, WA)

New Collection of La Gartier Custom Garters

2011-09-28T10:44:00.000-07:00

I love these new additions to La Gartier Custom Garters.
Manette Gracie Brides: Email me for information on your discount!

Céline and Kurt! {Golden Gardens Bath House + Nani Oei Photography}

2011-09-07T13:52:00.000-07:00

All Images by Nani Oei Photography

Céline and Kurt were married at the Interfaith Community Church in Ballard last July and held their reception at the Golden Gardens Bathhouse at Golden Gardens Park. It was a beautiful day, captured by one of my favorites Nani Oei Photography. Nani has the most wonderful eye for romantic, vintage-inspired photography. Her images always make me smile.

It was a beautiful sunny day. Perfect for the beach! The reception had a French theme, in honor of Céline's heritage, and was full of white milk glass, and soft pinks.

Golden Gardens is such a beautiful park. Céline and Kurt headed out with Nani Oei during cocktail hour for a few more shots around the bath house.

I loved this little shrug Céline had for when the sun went down. Of course she had other wardrobe tricks up her sleeve!

Like this pink sequined number she changed into once the dance floor opened. It really set the tone, and the party kept going until the wee hours!

Congrats Céline and Kurt! And special thanks to Nani Oei Photography for all of the beautiful images.

Five Fun Wedding Songs (plus one repeat)

2011-08-18T10:44:00.000-07:00

Looking for wedding music inspiration? Head over to Pandora (www.pandora.com) and set up a new station using "Wedding Songs" as your song or artist. Turns out they have a wedding music station. I've been listening to it all morning. Here are a few of my favorite tunes:

Ahh Sinatra. Always makes me smile.

Am I crazy? I think this would be a fun processional song for the wedding party. Maybe I am crazy. But I still love this song.

Jack Johnson is so sweet and mellow. This would be a fun first dance song, or processional.

I'm thinking this song might be a blast on the dance floor...

Looking for a fun Last Dance Song?

And of course one of my all time favorites (this is the repeat, I've posted it on the blog before)

Matt & Jenna's Pickering Barn Wedding

2011-07-18T19:02:00.000-07:00

Belathee Photography sent over this fun montage from Matt and Jenna's wedding in May. It was such a fun night with a million fun details. Here are a few-- I can't wait to share more soon!

La Gartier Custom Wedding Garters {Discount for Manette Gracie Brides}

2011-07-14T10:52:00.000-07:00

Not-impressed with the garter selections you've found around town? Check out these beautiful garters from La Gartier (custom designs and charms available). And Manette Gracie brides email me-- because there is currently a great discount being offered, just for you.

Ribbon-Tied Bouquets

2011-06-21T11:18:00.000-07:00

I was chatting with a fabulous Maid-of-Honor about DIY bridal bouquet ideas this morning, and I got to thinking about single ribbon bouquet ties (as opposed to a more traditional tape and pin). Here are some of the fun pictures I found.

www.hindsightbride.com

www.iheartvintagecouture.com

www.theknot.com

www.arenaflowers.com

Kelli and Kevin's Fabulously Fun Georgetown Ballroom Wedding {Matt Shumate Photography}

2011-06-17T14:17:00.000-07:00

Kelli and Kevin had a sunny springtime wedding this past April. Their celebration was beautiful, unique and so very much fun (as the incredible photographs from Matt Shumate Photography below show). Here are a few of my favorite details from the day:

The Venue: Georgetown Ballroom, Seattle WA

The Georgetown Ballroom (located in Seattle's vibrant Georgetown neighborhood), is beautiful. Its eclectic and whimsical styling and decor were a perfect match for the bride and groom.

I especially loved this little space above the ceremony area. We used it as a preparation space for the couple and bridal party. It was also fun because it was a great place for the bride and groom to peek out at their guests before the ceremony. Later (below) Kelli took one last look before heading down the steps, then down the aisle with her father.

The ballroom also has a lovely outside courtyard area (complete with lights. (The lanterns above are also included). It was a beautiful April evening and guests relaxed in the courtyard throughout the event.

Tasty Cake Centerpieces

Instead of traditional floral centerpieces, Kelli and Kevin instead opted for tasty (and quite pretty) cakes from Macrina Bakery. After dinner, I passed out pre-bundled cake plates, and cutting supplies, as well as a description of the flavor of cakey-goodness they were about to enjoy. The guests loved it.

Kevin's Incredible Graphics and Creativity

Kevin is a very talented fellow. Not only did he design and letterpress the couple's invitations, he also created so many fun and thoughtful touches that were placed throughout the evening. Like the programs...

and the very sweet thank yous, which accompanied the couple's favors-- tea towels, (that did double duty as napkins during dinner)

Matt Shumate Photography

I'll let the pictures speak for themselves, but only after saying that Matt was fun, easy to work with, and his Photographs. Are. Stunning.

Wonderful Family and (Super Fun) Friends

Kelli and Kevin's celebration was highlighted by many special moments with family and friends. From the beautiful (and humorous) toasts, to the slide-show which aired during dinner, to the ceremony itself, the love was definitely in the air.

To begin with, two of Kelli and Kevin's good friends Jonathan and Deanne (or Johnny T and D's Nutz per the program) served as the officiates. They prepared a fun and sweetly personalized ceremony. Here they are at the beginning of the ceremony as Kevin heads down the aisle.

Johnny T and D's Nutz also came up with one of my favorite parts of the evening....

Ceremony Flash Mob

You read right. This was the first (and to date, only) wedding I have ever coordinated with a flash mob. Yep, halfway through the ceremony, in full cahoots with the DJ, bridal party, officiates, and me, several pre-selected guests pulled of a very-well choreographed dance routine to Usher's Dj's Got us Falling in Love Again.

Of course by the end of the song nearly the whole place had gotten up to dance...

And the bride and groom had absolutely no idea what was going on. But they were definitely loving it.

Yep, it was that awesome.

Brick Oven Pizza

After the ceremony the guests enjoyed fresh pizzas from Veraci Pizza . They set up their clay oven in the courtyard, and even took custom orders.

Dancing the Night Away
The dance party went strong until the wee hours, thanks in large part to the couple's friend DJ Automattic (matt.laughlin@myvenuesource.com). But also because of fun new touches that would appear every hour or so... like glow sticks, and a late-night build-your-own nachos bar.

Oh, and did I Mention the Gorilla?

Yep, he danced the night away too...

Congratulations Kelli and Kevin! May you celebrate every day together, the way you celebrated on this day.

Butterfly Wings {Via Trinket Jewelry}

2011-06-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

I was recently reading one of my favorite home decorating blogs (Little Green Notebook) on which they were discussing some recently acquired butterfly art. Sort of like this:

www.realbutterflys.com

They are beautiful undoubtedly, but I wasn't sure they were quite my style. I was imaging the beautiful creatures being netted away just so they could be pinned and framed on my wall. Then down in the comments section I found this remark from Etsy seller Trinket Jewelry:

I frame and mount real butterflies in frames and jewelry. I get all my butterflies from reputable butterfly farms that raise them and gather them after they have lived out their full lives. By purchasing real butterfly art from reputable sources you are supporting people who would otherwise sell their land for clear-cutting.

Naturally this made me feel quite a bit better about her work and I quickly clicked over to the Etsy store, which is full of beautiful necklaces. Perfect, I thought for your bridesmaids, or yourself! I especially loved these paired sets (great if you are only having a Maid of Honor?). $57 for both.

I also loved these gorgeous creations. $28 each.

"I Do" {Wedding Jewelry}

2011-06-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

I saw this "I Do" necklace ($78) by Kate Spade featured on Martha Steward Weddings recently...

This fun necklace is available on Etsy ($24)

As is this fun one (Oui Oui!) for $34 on Etsy.

DIY Envelope Liners {Via Ruffles & Stuff}

2011-06-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

Check out this post on Ruffles and Stuff that includes templates for DIY envelope lining!
Several sizes are included, they range from invite size, to small cards (shower thank yous? bachelorette invites?)

Hotel 1000 {Downtown Seattle Venue Discount}

2011-06-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

You guys!

I received an email from the Hotel 1000 recently with amazing news:
They are offering 50% off the venue rentals for weddings booked on their remaining Summer and Fall 2011 dates. Wowsa. But you must reserve your date by June 30th.

Call Donna for more details: 206.357.9453

Jack Young Photography

Monique Lhuillier Wedding Gowns

2011-06-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

More on dresses. Yep.

Reese Witherspoon wore a Monique Lhuiller gown at her recent wedding.

Here are some other dresses from their most recent collections (available at Marecella's in Seattle)

Photo: Spring 2012 Monique Lhuillier wedding dresses via WWD.com

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Blue blue blue {Via OnceWed}

2011-06-04T20:47:00.000-07:00

These dresses featured on OnceWed recently blew my mind.

Had to share....

Via OnceWed**************************************************

While we recognize that this non-traditional route is not for everyone, we also fell pretty hard for these textured gowns. The first gown in this set is called Moonshadow by Claire Pettibone and it is one of the most delicate and imaginative wedding gowns I have ever seen and feels like the first page of a hundred beautiful stories. The second is called Pleated Fantasy from BHLDN and has just the right combination of tailored and frothy. I guess the question is: could you see yourself in something like this for your wedding day?

Photography by Elizabeth Messina / Hair and makeup by Erin Skipley / Flowers by Mindy Rice

Clay Pot Brooklyn {Via Martha Stewart Bride's Guide}

2011-05-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

I couldn't have been happier to see The Clay Pot featured on Martha Stewart's Bride's Guide recently.

Mainly because the Clay Pot is where I purchased my own ring, and I had a wonderful experience working with them.

This is how it happened. I had seen this blueberry vine ring featured in the Sundance Catalog way back in the day and always admired it.

You see Ryan comes from a line of Maine blueberry farmers so I thought it would be particularly poignant to have a blueberry vine ring. Also, I wanted something simple, as I don't often wear jewelry and was worried a large ring, though fabulous, wouldn't quite feel right to me. Unfortunately by the time Ry and I were engaged this ring was sold out. However, when I searched for other Carla Caruso jewelry, I found that it was actually part of a wedding set (fate?) that was currently only available at Clay Pot in Brooklyn. We purchased (sight unseen) in white gold with a white sapphire and I couldn't be happier. Check out their website for other gorgeous rings...

Here's what Martha's had to say about the Clay Pot:

The Clay Pot's comprehensive website carries this charming store beyond its family-run Brooklyn roots. Their jewelry offerings include engagement rings, wedding bands, and earrings that would be great for your rehearsal dinner, honeymoon, and bridesmaids.

I could easily spend all day, and all of my money, browsing the site. The majority of my favorite designers are stocked here, including Alexis Bittar, Ginette_NY, AF House, and Becky Kelso. Oh, and that triple-diamond band above? A beauty by Me & Ro Bridal.

They provide free UPS ground shipping on all orders over $100 so you can use that tracking number to check your package's status until your new baubles arrive.

Red Roses {Via Geneva Diane Designs)

2011-05-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

I was blog-spying on one of my favorite local florists recently, Geneva Diane Designs, when I came across these red roses she prepared for a past wedding. I'm in love.

Carmen Valentine Photography

I'm at the Library

2011-05-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm headed into Seattle this morning for Matt and Jenna's wedding rehearsal at Seattle Public Library.
But first I'm stopping down the street at American Cutting Company for a (badly needed) haircut, which I notice has mixed reviews on Yelp, but I have a coupon so...I'm going to give it a whirl.

My inspiration was the most recent cover of Marie Claire

It's Ginnifer Goodwin's look I'm after (left). Ryan is 100% against it. Who knows, I may chicken out beforehand, and just show the picture of Victoria Beckham I've shown stylists since I lopped all my hair off last summer.

Anyway, like I said, after the haircut I'm off to the library. Which, I might add, is a great place for engagement photos (as these shots from Ben Blood show).

A Little Bird Told Me {Birdcage Centerpieces}

2011-05-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

I found these birdcage centerpieces in my most recent Better Homes and Gardens.

Then I went on a little bit of a tangent. A wee bit of google-searching "birdcage centerpiece candles" resulted in the following...

Additional searches brought up more fun ideas, including this one from Style Me Pretty.

Photo From Style Me Pretty

And this one from The Knot:

Photo From The Knot.

Local Paper Bouquets and Boutonnieres {Via Flowers From The Garden}

2011-05-24T11:52:00.000-07:00

Before Edgar and Shruti's phenomenal wedding at Urban Light Studio last Friday evening, I swung by Flowers From the Garden's home studio to pick up Shruti's gorgeous bouquets as well as the boutonnieres and corsages for her and Edgar's family members. The coolest part about the corsages and boutonnieres? They were made from paper. Yep. Flowers From the Garden owner Candace makes wonderful paper creations. Here's one the boutonnieres she currently has for sale on her Etsy Shop (custom orders are available of course).

I love these paper boutonnieres for several reasons. Mainly because they are lovely, but also because they will last through photos, the ceremony and through the reception without wilting, drooping or browning around the edges. At about $10 each, they are comparable, even competitive with what you might expect to pay from an area florist.

Here are some of her lovely bouquets.

The best part, of course, is that Flowers From the Garden is local, so you have lots of flexibility. Want to do a mix of paper and fresh flowers like Shruti? That's totally ok, and Candace can take care of it all. Check out her seasonal portfolio here.

Love Me a Rustic Wedding {Via Every Last Detail}

2011-05-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

I saw this post on Every Last Detail and thought I would share it with you, as it has many of my favorite things (fun signs, doggies, gorgeous dress, s'mores!)

Enjoy!

From Every Last Detail

**********

This beautiful rustic South Carolina wedding at Magnolia Plantation from Hyer Images is a great way to start off your week! Absolutely gorgeous light, fabulous chandeliers, and a dog! An awesome combination if you ask me! :)

The cake and the s’mores bar look absolutely scrumptious. Yum! A big thank you to Hyer Images for sending this beautiful Magnolia Plantation wedding our way for all of us to enjoy!

Succulent Succulents {Via Etsy, Yes Please, Better Homes and Gardens etc.}

2011-05-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

The June issue of Better Homes and Gardens has a really pretty photograph of a shell planted with succulents (page 50 if you happen to see an issue in the grocery store checkout line). It sort of looked like this, but smaller and much more DIY friendly:

This got me thinking about how fun planted shells would be for wedding centerpieces. I did some succulent centerpiece searches (try a google image search if you are interested) and found lots of neat ideas. However, somehow I ended up on the Crazycouture Etsy Shop where I found these dino planters that I am pretty sure I am in love with:

I was admiring these when Ryan came in and asked what I as doing. He looked skeptical when I told him I was working.

So I decided I should get back to the task at hand, succulent wedding centerpieces. That's when I found this post on Yes, Please. Totally DIY. Check it out.

Via Yes, Please:
**************

from day one i knew we had to use succulents in our wedding. what's more "modern organic" than succulents? plus they are native to the desert so it was a nice ode to our love of Palm Springs as well.

topher and i knew what we wanted for the centerpieces and felt like we could do the planting ourselves. after a few rounds of unsuccessful test centerpieces (yes, we somehow managed to kill the unkillable), we finally got it down to an art. we found the grey vessels at ikea (i heart you ikea!) and dealt directly with the nursery buyer at Home Depot to custom order our favorite types of succulents. oh, and the AMAZING table numbers are from the heavenly Anthopologie. swoooooon.

two weekends before the big day, our friends offered up their home as ground zero for Project Succulent. I can't even imagine what a colossal mess it would have been in our apartment! Thank you Mick and Seema! A potentially tedious project turned into a fun day filled with sunshine, a few bottles of Pacifico and lots of dirt!

we were incredibly happy with how they turned out and love that our friends took them with them and gave them a home after the wedding! we've got ours sitting on the coffee table - i smile everytime i look at it.

Weekend Away {Walla Walla Wedding Via Ali Walker Photography}

2011-05-20T09:17:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I took a weekend getaway a few weeks back before wedding season got into full swing. I'd purchased a Groupon for a few nights in Walla Walla at Areus, a bed and breakfast about 15 minutes outside downtown Walla Walla.

Photo Via Areus Website

This was our room

When we arrived the owner was working with some other clients and suggested we walk the grounds for a few minutes before our check in. As I admired the beauty of our surroundings (yes, we were out in the middle of a wheat field, but it was beautiful!) I commented to Ryan that this place would be great for a wedding. Later I learned that when we first arrived the owner had actually been booking such an event with an engaged couple, and that Areus holds weddings on a regular basis.

Upon returning home from a beautiful weekend in Walla Walla (let me tell you, it was mid-April, raining in Seattle and sunny and seventy over in Eastern Washington), I was able to find these photos from the ever-fabulous Ali Walker Photography. Gorgeous, yes? Ryan and I are hankering for an excuse to get back across the mountains, any 2012 brides feeling like a mini-destination wedding?

Flowers: Amore Floral Design
Catering: Graze
DJ: Sight and Sound Services
Cakes (tarts, actually): Colville Street Patisserie

DIY Infused Water {Via Style Blueprint}

2011-05-19T13:56:00.000-07:00

I love these lovely infused waters from Style Blueprint.
They'd look lovely in pitchers on each table, or in clear wine bottles (extras can be corked and stored in the fridge), or in larger drink containers like this:

Here's the post from Style Blueprint:

We’re all feeling the summer heat and wondering when will it end. It reminds me of one of my favorite songs,
“We’re having a heatwave, a tropical heatwave, it isn’t surprising, she certainly can can-can.” With a little salsa in our step, Liza and I met in the StyleBlueprint test kitchen (my house) to experiment with concocting some refreshing, herb infused waters. They are certainly good for your waistline and will keep you hydrated in the 90 degree + weather. Here’s what we came up with….

Blackberry and Mint Infused Water.

Since I was having a neighborhood meeting at my house, I took an independent, non-official poll and the neighbors loved the blackberry infused with mint water the best.

Cucumber and Basil Infused Water

I personally love anything with basil, so my favorite was the basil and cucumber water. Basil is also wonderful when infused in a simple syrup (1 part water and 1 part sugar) and added to ice teas and club soda.

Peach and Sage Infused Water.

By far, the most interesting and beautiful of the three is the peach and sage infused water.
Liza mentioned yesterday that we were upping our game in the photography department, but dang, not sure we can always promise ones as good as these ones she took today!
Try these out and let us know your favorites–if you have any other ideas for great drinks to beat the summer heat, please send us a comment as well.

New Images from Nani Oei

2011-05-17T08:15:00.000-07:00

It is no secret that I love Nani Oei Photography. I met her when she shot Nate and Midori's beautiful vintage wedding last summer. Here are some of her most recent images, shot all around Seattle at venues like The Edgewater Hotel, Blue Ribbon Cooking and Blessed Sacrament Church. Enjoy.

Fab Freebie {Via LittleLadyCompany}

2011-05-11T21:33:00.000-07:00

We have an awesome giveaway this week from LittleLadyCompany.

LittleLadyCompany designs and prints beautiful Wedding Invites, Save the Dates, Thank You Cards, Bridesmaid Cards, Menus, Stationery Sets and more (Many of which can be customized to match your invitations!). Clients love her work for its fun and whimsy (read reviews here).

The Giveaway:

LittleLadyCompany is generously giving one Manette Gracie reader a Go Go Girly Stationery Set.

How to enter:

Head over to the Manette Gracie Facebook Page and leave the comment "Go Go Girly" by next Tuesday. The winner will be announced Wednesday.

Here are some of my favorite designs...

Check out these wedding invites

I love these fun Save the Dates

Love these menus.

Fun stationery and thank you cards.

Rustic Russell's Wedding {Via CarlyBish Photography}

2011-05-10T10:26:00.000-07:00

Check out this beautiful wedding held at Russell's Dining & Bar in Bothell. What a fun venue-- a 1920's refurbished barn! All catering at Russell's is provided by Russell dean Lowell Catering.

CarlyBish Photography

All photography is via CarlyBish Photography. Carly is one of my favorite Northwest photographers for several reasons: 1. Her photography is incredible. 2. She is a hoot to be around 3. She is a genuine, sweet and compassionate person (shown again most recently by a trip to volunteer trip to Haiti). Insider Tip: Looking to book for late 2011 or 2012? Book Carly now as her rates will be going up next month!

Lace Covered Pumps (Broke-Ass Bride)

2011-05-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

I saw this post on the Broke-Ass Bride Recently that I thought I'd share.

From The Broke-Ass Bride

*********

What happens when you fall in love with a pair of shoes that cost $1000? You write an email to moi, requesting I find it for a fraction of that (insane) cost. Most of the ladies that read this here blog don’t even come close to spending $1000 on their actual wedding dress. So imagine yourself in broke-ass bride Stacey’s position. She wrote in requesting that I find her the Get Over It version of her shoe desire: Alexander McQueen’s $1000 Lace Covered Pumps. A pair of shoes that she said, “cost more than her wedding dress.”

Can’t Afford It:

Get Over It:

1. A. Marinelli. $47.82.

2. Guess. $99.

3. Asos. $80.69.

4. Zigi. $59.95.

5. Martinez Valero. $149.95.

6. Moda Spana. $49.95.

7. Kelly & Katie. $49.95.

8. Kelly & Katie. $49.95.

9. Zigi. $69.95.

10. Badgley Mischka. $129.95.

11. Badgley Mischka. $129.95.

12. Via Spiga. $86.90.

13. Caparros Narita. $70.

MissNowMrs.Com {Changing Your Name}

2011-05-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Are you planning on changing your name in the future? Everyone has their own plans for their name when they get married, some include hyphens, or new names all together, while some (like me) plan on changing a big fat NOTHING about their name. What are your name change plans?

If you are planning on changing your name, www.MissNowMrs.com is a great resource. Carly (over at Carly Bish Photography, one of my favorite Seattle wedding photographers) discussed her own name change on her blog a few months back (read the post in its entirety here). Here's an excerpt:

If you’re wondering what the special thing was that I did for George, here it is. I’ve applied, finally, for my legal name change from Bishop to Chaney. It was never a question of whether or not I wanted to get it legally changed but as most of my married women friends know, it is a big, fat pain in the butt to get your named changed. You don’t just change your name. You change it and then you have to update everything else. Your driver’s license, your insurance, your bank account, basically everything, and it can be pretty overwhelming. But I was lucky to discover MissNowMrs.com and they pretty much got all their bases covered, making the process really easy. Plus, if you’re not ready to do something, they save your information and you can always go back and finish it later. I highly recommend it, so if you’re already married and haven’t done it, it’s well worth the $30 and to all those who are engaged and plan on changing your name, bookmark the site for later. It’ll save you a lot of trouble.

Getting Married in Washington?

2011-04-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

You'll need a marriage license!

There is a waiting period (in every state but Nevada!), so don't wait until the last minute!!

Details for:

Coffee Shop Wedding {Via Elizabeth Anne Designs}

2011-04-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

This incredible coffee shop wedding was featured on Elizabeth Anne Designs recently.

Enjoy!

From Elizabeth Anne Designs

***

I love coffee. And weddings. And did I mention coffee? Bethany and Andrew’s charming Phoenix wedding combines both! Held at Inside the Bungalow, an adorable coffee shop turned wedding venue, there’s a slightly Alice in Wonderland feel with coffee cups, painted murals and tea tins. I love the intimate feel of the venue, and Bethany and Andrew created a lovely atmosphere with DIY table runners, wildflowers in pails, and lanterns to light the reception as evening fell. All of the lovely images were captured by Photography by Verdi.

The following Phoenix wedding vendors contributed to Bethany and Andrew’s wedding:

Photography – Photography by Verdi \ Venue – Inside the Bungalow \ Floral – ZuZu Petals \ Photobooth – AZphotofun \ Gown – Allure Couture, purchased from Uptown Bridal in Chandler, AZ \ Bridesmaids – David’s Bridal \ Catering – Heidi’s Events and Catering \ Bakery – Cake Frenzy

4 Wedding Planning Tips

2011-04-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

4 Wedding Tips from Brides Mag

1. Think through the entire event a few weeks before the wedding from the guest's point of view. Every minor detail should be covered. Like who will hand out the programs and how to shuttle guests from the church to the reception.

2. Make sure you have a few extra seats and dinner setups for any surprise guests who show up. (This happens more often than you think!)

3. Pack a pair of sandals in your day of bag in case a broken heel or blister makes your shoes unwearable.

4. Pretend the wedding is on a Wednesday (assuming it's really on a weekend). Finish everything-- including paying balances and putting gratuities aside in envelopes-- by the Tuesday before your wedding. This way all the little details will be done and you'll have time to just enjoy your family and friends and relax.

WTOO {Wedding Dresses }

2011-04-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

I wore a Watters Gown on my wedding day...

Yep that's me, hoola hooping with my ring bearer before the ceremony.

Stephanie Haller Photography

So I was intrigued when I saw their new line WTOO. According to the fashion experts:

Wtoo is the lighter side of Watters. Still elegant and classy, their dresses tend to be a little lighter in terms of construction, slightly less formal, and they use alternatives to silk so they are a little less weighty for the budget as well. If you are looking for an over the top, crazy beaded dress, you won’t find it here. If you want something elegant that doesn’t take itself too seriously, check Wtoo out.

Here are some of their designs. Check the WTOO website for more.

They also have bridesmaid and flower girl dresses.

Spring Wedding Dress Collection 1

Wtoo 2011 Spring Wedding Dress Collection 2

Wtoo 2011 Spring Wedding Dress Collection 3

Wtoo 2011 Spring Wedding Dress Collection 4

Wtoo 2011 Spring Wedding Dress Collection 5

Wtoo 2011 Spring Wedding Dress Collection 6

Wtoo 2011 Spring Wedding Dress Collection 7

Wtoo 2011 Spring Wedding Dress Collection 8

Wtoo 2011 Spring Wedding Dress Collection 9

Print Your Own Invites

2011-04-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

Brides Magazine has a great line of invites available at Michaels. Some are custom order, others you can print right from your home computer. They are definitely worth checking out if your are on a budget for invites!

Ringbearers Pillow {Via Etsy}

2011-04-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have done a bunch of posts on ring bearer pillows in the past. See here and here for loads of fun ideas.

However, I recently came across this fun pillow on Etsy. It's under $40, but if you have a crafty auntie or future mother-in-law that you'd like to involve in the wedding, this might be just the task to ask for help with!

Too Much to Love {Via Every Last Detail}

2011-04-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

There's so much to love about this Tennessee wedding recently posted on Every Last Detail.
Some of my favorites are the customized hangers (search personalized hangers one etsy and you can find them for under $30, so fun!) That white peony bouquet is also gorgeous. Love it. As well as the father of the bride's outfit! What's your favorite detail?

From Every Last Detail
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(I was going to split up the post here and make it into 2 parts, but I just don’t feel like it today- I would rather share another wedding later! :) So this post is going to be a little long!)

How CUTE was that little cake topper (or whatever it was) with their doggie in the back?! Love the drink stirrers too- those are such a great detail that add a lot to the overall design of everything! A big thank you to Shannon Kelley Photography for sharing this wedding with us! :)

What's Your Pattern?

2011-04-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

When Ry and I got married last year we registered for red and turquoise Fiestaware.

Mixed with Chirp, my new favorite pattern from Lenox.

My sister and her husband registered for Portmeirion.

This Vera Wang pattern is another one of my favorites.

Donna Karan just released this new line through Lenox.

What did you register for?

Margarita Ice Pops {Your Signature Cocktail?}

2011-04-14T06:00:00.001-07:00

Brides Magazine recently mentioned cocktail ice pops under their hot Buzz Ideas section. What a fun idea for a signature cocktail! Here are two fun recipes I found. Search cocktail ice pops for loads more! (These might also be fun for a rehearsal dinner)

Watermelon Margarita Ice Pop Recipe Makes 8 Ice Pops

Ingredients

5 cups chopped seedless watermelon (1 1/4 pounds)
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
3 tablespoons superfine granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup silver tequila

Equipment: 8 (1/3-cup) ice pop molds and 8 wooden sticks

Preparation

Purée all ingredients in a blender until smooth, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup, pressing on and then discarding solids. Skim off any foam, then pour into molds. Freeze 30 minutes. Insert sticks, then freeze until firm, about 24 hours.

Margarita Popsicles

Ingredients:
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons tequila
2 tablespoons orange liqueur (recommended: Grand Marnier)
Kosher salt, for garnish

Special Equipment:
4 small cups (recommended: Dixie), 4 popsicle sticks

Directions:
Combine sugar, lime juice, water, lemon juice and orange juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring, until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Once cool transfer to a blender with tequila, orange liqueur, and lime wedge and process until smooth. Pour into the cups and cover the top of each cup with foil. Place the popsicle stick in center of cup (down through foil, which will hold it in place). Freeze until hard, preferably overnight. Remove from freezer and run cup under warm water to loosen popsicle. Garnish with kosher salt and serve. Enjoy!

First Spring Wedding! {Via With Love: Photography By Lyss}

2011-04-12T21:17:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday was my first spring, 2011 wedding. The sun was shining as Katie and Adam had a gorgeous ceremony at Villa Academy, complete with a full choir in the balcony. After the ceremony we headed over to Lake Union Cafe for the reception.

With Love: Photography by Lyss posted these awesome shots from the pre-ceremony portrait session. I can't wait to see some from the ceremony (the chapel is gorgeous, and the ceremony was absolutely beautiful) and reception (the couple rented a late night taco truck as a take away gift for their guests!) Such a fun night!

All photography by: With Love: Photography by Lyss

The bridal parties got ready at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel in downtown Seattle.

These two are adorable.

Katie's hair was gorgeous. All hair and makeup was by I Love Blush.

One of my favorite details was the song Katie and Adam chose for their first dance: Ben Harper's Forever. It is beautiful, not too long (only 3.5 minutes) and I'm not sure there was a dry eye as Katie and Adam took to the dance floor.

Details

Guests: 140

Photography: With Love: Photography by Lyss

Ceremony: Villa Academy

Reception: Lake Union Cafe

Catering: Lake Union Cafe

Bakery: Bellevue QFC Bakery

Makeup & Hair: I Love Blush

Floral: Loves me Flowers

DJ & Pianist: Joe Bongiorno

Check It Out! {Red Sparrow Photography Boudoir Special}

2011-04-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Introducing Boudoir {hotel rendezvous} by Red Sparrow Photography!

Only four spots remaining for this unique opportunity! Call 360-789-5881 or email info@redsparrowphoto.com for more details and to book your session.

Get With the Program

2011-04-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

These are a few of my favorite programs of the past year.

What are your program plans? or are you skipping them all together?

Love this...Rustic Wedding

2011-04-08T23:30:00.000-07:00

This Rustic wedding was posted on Elizabeth Anne Designs a few months back.

Thought I would share it today!

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From Elizabeth Anne Designs

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Bridesmaids wore a pale pink or cream dress of their own choosing, paired with comfy, cozy wraps.

Jason and Sarah picked lavender and sage from their home in Utah and filled linen bags with a mixture of the two for tossing after the ceremony.

The lovely ceremony bench was built by Sarah’s father out of the first front door they had on their house.

Sarah and her sisters made the paper hearts, table numbers, and honey jars. In addition to that beautiful ceremony bench, Sarah’s father also cut all of the logs for the centerpieces and dessert stands, and created the candelabra that hung from the ceremony tent!

Sarah, thank you for sharing all of the lovely details of your day with EAD! The following wedding vendors contributed to Sarah and Jason’s wedding:

Photography – Simply Bloom Photography, Huntsville, AL
Venue – Toad Hill Farm, Franconia, New Hampshire
Floral – Emily Herzig of EH Floral, Littleton, New Hampshire
Gown designer – Amy Michelson
Rentals – Sperry Tent Rental
Music – High Range Band

Incorporate Classic Toys {Via Seattle Bride}

2011-04-08T07:35:00.000-07:00

I love this recent post from Seattle Bride on incorporating classic toys into your decor. My favorite? The folded playing card escort cards!

From Seattle Bride
*****

A sweet storybook favor from Angela and Aaron's backyard wedding

Bride Idea: Classic toys add wedding day whimsy

By:Kate Calamusa

Photography by:Cheri Pearl Photography/ Wallflower Photography/ Angela & Evan Photography

We all have ‘em: our favorite children’s book, the plastic dinosaur from our Land Before Time phase, and as much as they were our favorites during childhood, they still remain a part of our adult selves. Several creative local couples have tapped into their inner children for their celebrations, using dinosaur toys in fun boutonnieres, transforming Legos into cake toppers and one couple’s love of literature resulted in a beautiful storybook favors.

For Chelsea Lechelt and Travis Pemberton’s October 8th, 2010 nuptials at Thornewood Castle, the laid-back duo wanted to craft an elegant affair that still maintained a sense of humor. Both the bride and groom are avid collectors of silly toys and figurines, so when Chelsea found a tube of plastic dinosaur toys, inspiration took over. Chelsea pinned the colorful dinos to a few simple blooms for playful, yet chic boutonniere (plus each groomsman got to pick his dinosaur, we imagine fighting ensued. The Tacoma-based couple kept the fun and games going into the reception, as guests played board games during the cocktail hour and then found their places at dinner with place cards made from old playing cards.

Photos courtesy of Wallflower Photography

Macaully O’Neil spent many childhood days at her grandparent’s lake house in Chelan, Washington, so when it came time to find a venue for her September 18th, 2010 nuptials to husband Jeff Glasser, she naturally gravitated to those memories, booking Karma Vineyards for the big day. But Jeff got his childhood flashback as well: little bride and groom Lego toys decorated the tops of the wedding day cupcakes.

Photo courtesy of Angela & Evan Photography

Like a good bedtime story, Angela Goodman and Aaron Jennings’ love story is sweet; so sweet that they put it all into a little storybook for their October 2nd, 2010 nuptials at a private farm in Poulsbo. After having trouble finding the perfect reading for their ceremony, Angela’s good friend, screenwriter Charlotte Brewster, volunteered to write the couple a story, and have it illustrated by her mother, Eleanor Barrow. Brewster reinterpreted the West Seattle couple’s love story into a fairy tale about a bear and a squirrel that find true love, reading it aloud during the ceremony. Each guest received a copy of “The Squirrel & The Bear” as a sweet takeaway.

Header photo courtesy of Cheri Pearl Photography; interior book shot courtesy of Angela Goodman

Plant A Tree {Via Seattle Bride}

2011-04-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

Of course I loved this "Plant a Tree" ceremony idea featured on Seattle Bride recently.

Check out the details below.

From Seattle bride:

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Bride Idea: Plant a tree to celebrate your union

By:Kate Calamusa

Photography by:Laura Totten/Blissed Photo

Whether it’s a unity candle or mixing of sand, many local ceremonies include a symbolic gesture to signify the joining of two lives. We love Leigha Christian and Nino Bice’s decidedly Northwest twist on this tradition for their September 11, 2011 wedding ceremony at Farm Kitchen in Poulsbo.

As guests arrived, they were asked to take a cone of soil from a basket and then help fill a pot at the altar. During their ceremony the couple planted a Japanese maple sapling in the pot, supported by all their guests. Then Leigha and Nino’s mothers each read a meaningful passage, then poured water on the newly planted sapling to signify the union of the Christian and Bice families. The sapling now sits on their porch in Queen Anne.

Classic Wedding {Via Every Last Detail}

2011-04-04T07:32:00.000-07:00

I loved the elegance of this wedding featured on Every Last Detail recently.

Enjoy!

***

It’s a gloomy, rainy day here in Florida, so I thought that this wedding from Rae Leytham Photography would be a nice reminder of what the perfect day in Florida is like- sunny and cool. Notice that I said “perfect”- sunny and cool doesn’t happen very often here… it’s usually sunny and scorching! But this January wedding did have the perfect Florida day, and Rae and Wesley Leytham were there to capture it all!

Alright, those centerpieces are pretty darn awesome. I love all of the birch wood used! It makes everything so garden-y, even though it’s a wedding near the beach- my favorite kind of beach wedding… non-beachy! A big thank you to the Leythams for sharing this wedding with us!

Vendors who made it all happen…

Photography: Rae Leytham Photography | Venue: Cypress Dunes Clubhouse | Florals: Groom’s mother | Catering: Classic City Catering | Cake: Betty Weber

Disney Princess Wedding Gowns...

2011-03-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

Alfred Angelo recently released a line of Disney Princess Wedding Gowns.
See if you can guess which princess inspired each gown...

It's Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas? {AManette Gracie Wedding}

2011-03-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

I got the best little surprise recently. It was a disc in the mail with pictures from Tricia and Joe's Christmas Wedding. Tricia and Joe got married at Thornewood Castle last December and I was lucky enough to be their coordinator.

A Perfect Little Wedding provided photography as well as an officiant (Curtis was wonderful!), and Twelve Baskets Catering put out an amazing spread!

So if you are thinking a summer wedding isn't in the cards, plan a wintertime extravaganza. There are so many fun and beautiful indoor venues here in Washington. Email me for ideas!

Brides Mag Etiquette Police

2011-03-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

I saw this Q &A in Brides Mag recently and thought it was worth sharing with you all.

Q: I want my bridesmaids to wear big, gorgeous hats-- I'm going for a romantic English look. But the girls are rebelling, saying they'll feel ridiculous. Don't I get the last word here? It's my day!

A: It certainly is your day to look forward to and revel in. But while every bride is entitled to maker her wedding vision come true, there are limits, especially when others are involved. If these women, whom you presumably cherish, are unhappy, won't that make you unhappy, too? So instead of such an extreme look, why not have them wear fascinators (small hats on a headband or comb)?

Here are some bridesmaids that I bet wish they'd had a little more say in their attire...

Nicole Miller 2011 Gowns (Via Bride.CA)

2011-03-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

I found this post on Bride Ca recently. I love these Nicole Miller gowns. You can find elegant designs at the Nicole Miller bridal site.

From Bride Ca:

***********

We love the elegant, understated designs of Nicole Miller's bridal collection. These gowns are perfect for the bride that demands ultimate style with minimal bling! Not to mention that this line offers just about the perfect options for our "destination wedding" brides.

Time to Get Cracking! (15% Off David's Bridal Does Invites)

2011-03-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

Have you ordered wedding invites yet? David's Bridal has hundreds of customizable options, including some eco-friendly options.

Use the Code: BRIDES315 for 15% off your entire order of over $150 as well as free shipping

Your Feet

2011-03-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

What are you wearing on your feet? Are you switching over to comfy shoes for the reception?

What are your dream shoes? Comment with pictures, links, whatever. I want to see :)

How about Zebra? These Zebra pumps are under $30 at Hot Topic

These ruffle pumps are a little more (they're from Bloomingdales) but so cute!

Are shoes your something blue? (I wore blue ballet flats). These heels are from Zappos.

According to the wedding magazines, booties are all the rage this year. Will you rock the trend?

Or are you thinking sneaks?

Find the Perfect Dress At Blue Sky Bridal

2011-03-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Still looking for the perfect dress? Check out Blue Sky Bridal in Seattle. Brides are forever telling me how happy they are with the helpful staff and wonderful selection of consigned dresses.
Check out the many wonderful reviews they have on WeddingWire.

Here are some of the gorgeous dresses they currently have in stock:

Designer: Maggie Sottero

Size: 8/10

Hem: 5'9"

Color: ivory organza

Price: $450

(Original retail $900)

Designer: 2be

Size: 6

Hem: 5'2"

Color: ivory raw silk

Price: $1400

(Original retail $2800)

Designer: Monique Lhuillier

Size: 2

Hem: 5'6"

Color: ivory silk and lace

Price: $1200

(Original retail $6500)

Designer: Amsale

Size: 12

Hem: 5'11"

Color: white silk

Price: $ 1900

(Original retail $4500)

Designer: Maggie Sottero

Size 14/16

Hem: 5'11"

Color: Pearl

Price: $850 new

(Original retail $1200)

Designer: Emerald

Size 18

Hem 5'11"

Color: blush/champagne

Price: $550

(original retail $1000)

You Can Wear White (by Vera Wang)

2011-03-16T20:10:00.000-07:00

David's Bridal recently released a new line by no less than Vera Wang. The Vera Wang.
Except instead of spending $25,000 for a Vera Wang designed gown, you'll pay no more than $1,400.
How about that!

Here are some of the new designs.

2011-03-14T15:50:00.000-07:00

The Evergreens in this Vail wedding featured over on Elizabeth Anne Designs reminded me of the Pacific Northwest.

What do you think?

From Elizabeth Anne Designs:

**********************

I simply love each and every little thing about this wedding, so I’ve been dying to show it to you! Maggie and Jeremiah were married in an intimate little wedding at the Sonnenalp Resort in Vail. I immediately fell in love with the lush and colorful flowers from the always-fantastic Alicia of Bella Fiori and their vibrant hues of peach, pink, green, and blue. Vail, with its glorious mountains and village full of character, was the perfect backdrop for all of the charming details. Maggie is a resplendent bride, and I especially adore her vintage cathedral length veil, her mother’s from her own wedding. The talented and sweet Jamee Photography captured all of the gorgeous images, and since I know you love this one just as much as I do, you can view even more of this beautiful wedding in the gallery!

The following Colorado wedding vendors contributed to Maggie and Jeremiah’s wedding:

Photography – Jamee Photography \ Venue – Sonnenalp Resort of Vail \ Floral – Bella Fiori \ Stationery – Bella Figura \ Gown – Jim Hjelm, purchased from De Ma Fille in Fort Worth, TX \ Bridesmaids – J Crew \ Hair and makeup – Inga Cox \ Accessories – Anthropologie, family jewelry and Sonyarenee \ Veil – mother’s vintage \ Shoes – Badgley Mischka \ Bakery – Mountain Flour \ DJ – A Music Plus

2011-03-11T20:31:00.000-08:00

I think everyone knows I love a backyard wedding. I'd been feeling a little blue I didn't have any on the books for this summer... so I was super excited when I got a call last week from an August bride. She booked my second-to-last available August date (August 5th is still available!!).

Check out this gorgeous backyard wedding I found on the Wedding Chicks recently.

Love it!

From the Wedding Chicks:

********************

Are you planning an elegant backyard wedding this summer? If so you are going to want to take serious note of our next wedding.

This beautiful outdoor wedding was held at a private residence in Santa Rosa, CA. Everything as gorgeous as can be and all exquisitely photographed by Summer & Boyd Photography.

Be sure to swoon over the entire wedding gallery.

Photographer: Summer & Boyd
Caterer: Elaine Bell Catering
Coordinator: Sharon Burns
Floral Design: Seasons Floral Design
Doves: Doves Aflight
Ceremony Music: Pulama Music
Photo Booth: SF Photo Booth
Venue: Private Residence
Officiant: Reverend Michael Ireland
DJ: Dan Ohrman
Makeup: Chelsea Millunchick
Hair and Makeup: Tricia Turner

Escort Cards, Place Cards, Seating Charts, Oh my!

2011-03-08T06:00:00.000-08:00

I this post by Shelbie Rene recently and thought I would share it with you, since I have had some questions regarding Escort and Place Cards recently.

Em

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Escort Cards, Place Cards and Seating Charts

I recommend reserved seating at any event whether you are having a seated dinner or not. Here's why. Who your guests sit with and where they sit leaves a lasting impression and can determine whether or not your guests enjoy themselves. You might assume your guests won't be sitting at their table much and perhaps they won't but you don't want your guests feeling left out, stressed out or bummed out because they are sitting next to complete strangers. The only disadvantages to having a seating chart is the necessity to know the status of each and every one of your guests at least two weeks prior to your wedding date and the lack of flexiblity if an unexpected guest does show up. To this I say it is the responsibility of your guests to respond to your invitation. With that said, you should always have an extra table or extra chairs at specific tables to accomodate unexpected guests or dates of guests. That way if a guests does not respond in the appropriate amount of time or shows up unexpectedly s/he will at least have a place to sit.

In order to create a seating chart you must first finalize the layout of your reception. Once this has been determined you can match families and friends together and even request chairs added or taken from specific tables to accomodate your seating arrangements. After you have decided who will be sitting with whom there are several ways you can go about organizing the process so your guests will know where to go when the reception begins. One way to go about doing this is to create two spreadsheets: one with the guests listed alphabetically and the other with the guests listed by table. I then advise that you have a layout of the reception area with all your tables numbered and labeled with the number of chairs at each table. On one of these pages you should make note of any open tables or chairs for your unexpected guests. At the reception, designate at least two people (or more depending on your guest count) to direct guests to their seats using the spreadsheets and layout. This can be your wedding planner, house party or any volunteers who want to help on your wedding day. You can also put a seating chart board on a pedastal at the entrance to the reception where guests can locate their seats themselves. Whoever you place in charge of your guest book can also direct guests to the board. This is a great option if you are trying to save money and don't want the added costs of escort and place cards.

Speaking of escort and place cards, many of my brides ask me what the difference is between the two. Escort cards are the cards your guests will need to find as soon as they arrive to the reception. It will have your guests' name and table name or number on the card. Once they find their escort card they will be able to look for their table number at the reception. Escort cards can be written for couples or individuals...whichever you prefer.

Place cards will be at each place setting on the guest tables. When the guests arrive at their tables, the place card will show them exactly which seat to sit in. If you are trying to save money place cards are not necessary and often escort cards can be used as place cards. In this case guests would arrive at their designated table and place their escort card at the seat of their choice.

Escort cards, place cards and table numbers are a great way to incoporate detail into your wedding design. Here are a few examples.

Escort Cards:

Krisit with Luna and Chloe Weddings used pages of a book to represent the table numbers. She says, ""I like the idea of putting the numbers on clothespins as they are easily clipped on to something so your guests can't lose." Though not shown, guests names could be written on the other side or bottom of the clothespins.

These antique keys hold the escort cards at this wedding from Ruffled. The bride says "We collected vintage keys and ...tied little tags onto each individual key and wrote all our guests’ names and table numbers on them. A friend lent us a gorgeous antique barn board door which we nailed 120 pegs into to hang the keys. Above the door we placed a hand-painted sign that read “You hold the keys to our heart”.

These cards designed by Morgan Gallo Events are a perfect example of escort cards used also as place cards.

These escort cards by Three were created especially for our Fall Photo Shoot last year. This is just one of the many creative ways you can display escort cards.

These apples act as escort cards and could also be used as place cards once guests find their seats. Courtesy of The Knot.

Place Cards:

I used bundt cakes to hold the place cards for our Fall Photo Shoot.

Here are a few more traditional place card ideas from The Knot.

Martha Stewart always has great inspiration for place card ideas.

Table Numbers:

As you can see from the following ideas from Style Me Pretty, table numbers can easily be incorporated into the theme of your event.

This is a tile turned table number.

Spelling out the number as opposed to using the actual number is just a simple way to make your table numbers unique!

A teacups and a branch were incoporated into creating the stand for this table number.

Table "numbers" don't necessarily have to be numbers, nor do they have to be a simple card on a stand. You can be as creative as you want when displaying your table numbers in order to add detail and personality to your guest tables.

Take Your Cousin to Work Day

2011-03-06T21:29:00.000-08:00

Apparently some Tacoma school-children had school conferences last week.

That was great news for me because it meant I got to spend the day with my 9 year-old cousin who was out of school for the day.

We had a blast.

First off we hit up the local thrift store. I was looking for vintage tins. My inspiration? These fun arrangements featured on Celebrity Prom Dress

We found 10 tins ranging from 50 cents to three dollars apiece and made our own arrangements with daffodils, baby's breath and roses we bought at Safeway. All I can say is this-- thank goodness it is Carly Bish Photography and not my android cell phone that is photographing the wedding I am mocking these up for. Here are arrangements. No frills, just fun and about $2-6 apiece (including flowers). NOTE: A bunch of the tins were leaky. Lousy! We solved the problem by trimming plastic grocery bags to fit inside.

My thought is that it would be fun to supplement the vintage tin centerpieces with some additional can centerpieces either with labels, plain, punched, or wrapped in fun fabrics...

Then my cousin and I were off to Global Bean in Silverdale to meet with an awesome Kitsap wedding coordinator. I am going to be helping with a wedding they are planning at the Farm Kitchen in Poulsbo. How cute is this place?

Since we were in Silverdale already, we decided to hit up Bella Bella Cupcakes.
Here's my lil cuz at the storefront.

I met the folks at Bella Bella at the Kitsap Wedding show a few weeks back. They'd given me a coupon for a free cupcake. However after my cousin and I had split one, we decided it was a good idea to buy another half dozen. We took them into Ryan's work where they lasted all of about two minutes.

So So So tasty!

DIY Bridal Shower Thank Yous {Via Inspired Honey Bee}

2011-03-04T06:00:00.000-08:00

I saw these DIY Bridal Shower thank yous over on Inspired Honey Bee recently and thought I would share them with all of you! What a sweet gesture.

Enjoy!

Via Inspired Honey Bee

****************

Bridal shower number two is this weekend, hosted by my mother and being organized and coordinated by a group of family and friends. I tend to show my gratitude with something homemade but with a larger group, that kind of generosity can make for some late nights. In keeping with the garden theme, I'm giving the women a little flower that can be planted and enjoyed this Spring.

At the local CVS, I picked up flowers for $1.99. Obviously, the plastic container they come in isn't eye-catching so I needed a low-cost cover solution. I grabbed a few tools, sat in front of my TV and the end of Glee Season 1, and got creative.

Decorative paper is something that we can all afford (a few cents if you bring in a coupon!). I placed the container in the center of a 12"x12" sheet of paper.

After a few miserable attempts at decorative folding, I overlapped two edges on two sides of the container.

First, I punched a hole on two sides so that I could weave a ribbon around the container, but that was a miserable sight! Instead, I grabbed washi tape that my dear friend Michelle gave me for my birthday. A piece on each side and I'm done! That saved a lot of time!

Instead of making cards, I decided to make little signs to stick into each plant. The Cricut machine was pulled out and I used the Simply Sweet cartridge that included these adorable tabs, which look a lot like the signs you may use in a garden to label your herbs. On one side of the sign is a "thank you" and the other side has a butterfly.

In order to see the designs, I glued pieces of paper behind the tabs. See how pretty that looks!

To make this easier, I taped the stick to one tab and then glued the two tabs together. A quick stab into the dirt and we have ourselves a cute gift!