Deep Purple Inspiration

I've been on a role lately with inspiration boards. I think I've posted more this week than in the last 6 months! This beautiful one is for Tyler's deep purple May wedding and if I do say so myself, it is gorgeous! My favorite elements: the incredible purple ranunculus (top row, 3rd photo from the left) and the stunning purple bridesmaid dresses.

top, left: invitation from wedding paper divas.
drawing: centerpiece design by Finishing Touch.

All other images are from a variety of weddings - vendors are unknown.

Crowning Glory

I absolutely love this bridal portrait....
It's been all over the internet lately. Classic bride has given us other ways to use the crown after your bridal portraits:

home decor

cake topper

And great news for anyone wanting use this fabulous idea for their wedding, she's also found this exact crown for sale by Heather Bullard.
If anyone takes "The Crown Photo" please send it to me! I'd love to post the "real-life version" of this bridal portrait for local brides to see.

Leather Boutonnieres

I've been relentlessly searching for leather boutonnieres for the last few months. I saw a gorgeous black leather boutonniere in a magazine (of course I cannot remember which one and haven't been able to find it since) and it was incredible! Sleek, simple, and masculine it was subtle and perfect on a black tux!
Since I haven't found the exact same one, I've pulled together a few other leather flowers that you could use as boutonnieres for your wedding:

The black camilla flower in the top photo is most like the boutonniere from the magazine.

top: Miracles and Crafts, Leather camilla flower, 2.9" across, $27.00
middle: Chocky Pink, leather flower pins, 2.25" across, $9.99
bottom: Zongka, crysanthemum leather flowers, 1.5" across, $5.00

Some of these are pins or hair clips, but they can easily be converted to boutonnieres for a modern, sleek look for your groom & groomsmen.

Fabulous Vintage Chic Inspiration!

I've just finished this incredible inspiration board for Lauren & Ryan's Vintage Chic wedding. Lauren loves champagnes, peaches, and pinks but wanted a little twist thrown in so we're incorporating black lace into the decor to give it that something extra.
To bring in a little of the groom's taste, we're drawing from Ryan's time spent living in Greece for the menu. They will serve Mediterranean dishes & their guests will enjoy a truly memorable European Vintage Chic wedding! It will be incredible.

What should I include in welcome baskets for my guests?

Question: A friend of mine is getting married in Abilene, TX this fall. She wants ideas for welcome baskets to go in the guests rooms. Do you have any ideas?

Answer: I get this question for almost ever wedding I plan, plus some.
You definitely want to include a few printed items: a welcome from the bride & groom, an itinerary of wedding events to which they're all invited, a list of other fun things to do in the area (shopping, golf courses, night life, etc.), and a map to the wedding locations. Go to the local chamber of commerce or welcome center and get brochures to include as well.

I always suggest including a couple of bottles of water (with a custom wedding label if possible) and a snack or two. For the snack, most people include a snack mix or chips, but I suggest something home made - home made trail mix or granola (VERY easy to make), or cookies or brownies along with your family recipe for them.

Other fun items to include: anything dealing with the area. Visit any of your favorite shops that sell something unique to city in which you're getting married - locally made soaps, kettle corn, beer or wine, fudge, etc.

Be creative about the container. If you're having a beach wedding, use a beach bag or a soft sided ice chest. If you're going to be married in a vineyard, use a wine box. Make the welcome basket fit the location.

The possibilities are endless!