WEDDING INVITES: jessica sanford

I am finally getting to share my dear friend Jessica's wedding suite. I couldn't be more happier with the way they turned out. Jessica planned an outdoor, rustic soiree that encompassed a lot of hydrangeas, mason jars, and shades of brilliant blue. I took her theme and ran with it for the suite. We have very similar taste so it was super easy and fun designing for Jessica. 

[click on image to enlarge]

We chose a natural linen paper and paired it with brown kraft envelopes and twine for the programs. For the return address we used a custom stamp to play off of the rustic theme. I love the way they turned out and I think the newlywed Sanford's did too! More invitation suites to come!

fine CHINA

On top of all the other big wedding decisions, lately I have been trying to pick out my our fine china to register for. Honestly, this (registering) and looking at honeymoon spots may be my favorite things so far! Since I am super organized and picky, I have been researching everything before I actually register. I pretty much have everything decided on, so now I just need to do it.

The other day I stumbled upon Kelly Wearstler's fabulous china patterns. They are gorgeous! Only if I could afford them...

I LOVE all the patterns - and I love how the second picture mix and matches them. Yay for gold! How cute would an array of these teacups (or any variety) be displayed like this:

I have seen several of these tree stands floating around antique shops and I always wondered what I could do with one of those...[simple + pretty]

But, if I had to pick a set it would be:

I visited Macy's the other day and this Kate Spade pattern stole my heart:

You can hardly tell, but the rim has a matte cobblestone pattern (similar to the black background in both pictures) that is so discreet it is perfect. I love that it is simple with a hint of something special when the light hits it just right. I also found these cute "tidbit" plates to mix and match within the set.

Look for both of these Kate Spade items on my future wedding "wish list". Wedding website coming soon!

BEAUTIFUL DRESSES

This past Saturday my mom, my MOH Kathryn, and myself went dress shopping in Birmingham. It was so much fun - and tiring! But, I would have to say, I know what I like and don't like so that made the eliminating pretty easy. I like it simple, chic, and unique. I had it narrowed down to 1 at each store (we went to 2) and made the decision yesterday, trying my lead runner on one final time. Some may call me "aggressive", but I consider myself a go-getter that hates waiting til' the last minute! Just one more thing to mark off the list!

*side note - it takes several months to get a dress in, so you have to order asap for alterations and bridal portraits...at 7 months out, I am actually pushing the limit!

I know these images have been floating around blog world lately, but I think they are so beautiful and represent my taste and style, so I wanted to share them. The author of Cherry Blossom Girl blog visited designer Marcia Lucia Hohan's showroom and snapped some unbelievable photos of her showroom. Marcia Lucia Hohan designed Cherry Blossom's wedding dress. I hope you enjoy these as much as I do!

I just love the muted colors, romantic layering, soft fabrics, and most of all - simplicity!

SHOWER THE EXPECTING COUPLE

My friend Lacey referred my design services to a co-worker and I wanted to share the final invitation. The hostesses were throwing a casual, couples baby shower and wanted something gender neutral and fun. Check it out.

NEW CAMERA

I am so stoked, I got a new camera for my bday and I absolutely love it! I have been wanting to share more photos of my invitation projects, but my small power shot camera does not do them justice! So, I did a little researching (and with help from a co-worker) asked for this baby for my bday/Christmas:

It is not the newest Canon DSLR model, but it was the most bang for my buck. I got a package deal with a basic zoom lens, but I just ordered a 50 mm macro lens for everyday shooting. It came in this week and I have all ready photographed 2 invitation sets to post! So be on the lookout!

I am hoping my product photography turns out similar to these:

She has the best recipes! [pioneer woman]

[fly through our window]

[urban grace]

I have all ready noticed that the pictures I have taken are so much more vivid and crisp. Plus, I love the blurry background that you can create! Stay tuned for better images!