Planning a wedding in Oregon or SW Washington? Check out our sister company's website, bravoportland.com
Friday, May 30, 2008
Wall Art
Decorating your new home as newlyweds is an incredibly exciting process. You have the opportunity to start with a clean slate in design and have the freedom to be as innovative as you want. But sometimes, as a newlywed couple your funds may be limited. You may be purchasing your first starter home, condo or townhouse, renting an apartment or living in a friends basement. Whatever the case, you'll want to be creative in your design choices so that you can make the most of a small budget.
We have a solution to filling up empty walls without spending a lot of cash - and the results are nothing short of amazing.
Painting your walls is one of the least expensive methods of dressing up a room. And one way to add detail is through stenciling, murals or decals. We're not talking about the old fashion wall art either so stop picturing flowers and ribbons stenciled on your walls. New options in wall art are available to you in several styles including, mod, modern, traditional, classical, French provincial and more.
Here are some of our favorites!
It is what it is: a really really big tree stencil. And that's not all that exciting. Until you break out the paint and create a whole forest on your bedroom wall. And then it's the best thing ever! Easy to use and use again, let your creativity blossom! Retails for $125 at Urban Outfitters.
If you like your artwork to take up huge portions of your wall, but aren't interested in wall papering your space, try this easy to install and remove wall mural from Urban Outfitters. This nighttime city scene wall mural, as captured by Seattle photographer Aaron Morris, comes on heavy duty wet strength paper in 6 panels. Retails for $200.
Another option retailing for $140 is this stunning World Map Wall Mural. Also available at Urban Outfitters.
Another great way to dress up your wall is to paint it a bright base color and then add decals to the top. These little fellows are just like those old picture books where you could take decals and use them over and over again wherever you liked, only these are big and they go on your wall. Create a great design and leave it or change it every day. Retails for $38 and available at Urban Outfitters.
If you are renting a space and are not allowed to paint your walls, decals are a great way to add interest without changing the surface of the room. Check out this charming chandelier decal. You can create a great design by just sticking a few up and then leave it forever or change it every day. Retails for $48 and available at Urban Outfitters.
If you're really daring try these toilet decals to make your throne your very own. Choose Submarine, Crown, Stag, Heart or Plant designs. Retails for $18 and available at Urban Outfitters online store.
Two new crepe restaurants have opened in Seattle you need to give a try.
The first crepe company is called Unicorn Crepes, named after the shape of the crepe cone. This Japanese craze comes by cooking the crepes on a French griddle and then filling the center with flavors and fillings you would never expect. Sure, everyone loves a sweet crepe filled with whipped cream, fruit or syrup, but how about a chili cheese dog crepe, or perhaps a pizza crepe? Sound interesting? We think so. Among the flavors mentioned you can also order teriyaki, tuna salad, or dessert crepes filled with cornflakes. Be daring, you never know what you might discover in your own neighborhood.
Visit Unicorn Crepes421 Sixth Ave SouthSeattle, WA 206-652-0637
The second crepe restaurant you need to visit is called La Cote Creperie. Paris native, Laurent Gabrel has brought a piece of his French culture straight to Seattle. We suggest the buckwheat crepe filled with Yukon potatoes and proscuitto. Other fillings to indulge in include shrimp, homemade sauces, french cheeses and unique spreads like chestnut or lemon.
Visit La Cote Creperie and you'll instantly be transported (at least in your mind) from the Seattle streets straight to Paris.
Visit La Cote Creperie today at 2811 East Madison Street, Seattle206-323-9800
At banquetevent.com we are all about personalization. We believe whole-heartedly, that the best weddings don't have to be the ones that spend thousands of dollars making sure each detail is perfect and extraordinary. Extraordinary things happen when you put your own touch on traditional wedding pieces. One way to do this best is through your wedding favors. Our favorite wedding favor of all time is to bake a delectable treat for your guests, include the recipe and neatly package a little taste in a charming box. This can be from your family recipe vault or it can be a new recipe, but either way, the personalization and thought that goes into it makes it special. You can even ask your family or bridesmaids to get involved and help you bake. It will be a wonderful bonding experience and you can eat the leftovers. (Always a plus!)
Here's how to make this favor extra special. First, find the right recipe. Remember, you probably don't want to bake anything that can melt or spoil, so choosing something that won't loose its taste or texture is ultra important. Some great treats to consider would be Italian biscottis, hard candies, crispy cookies like gingersnaps or meringue.
If you need some inspiration for a recipe, visit foodnetwork.com for hundreds of great free recipes. One of our favorites we found were these Meringue Smooches.
Next find the right packages. There are thousands of options available to you and at an affordable price. You can find beautiful boxes in all colors and shapes. Check out these options we found at Beau Coup.
Lastly, to add the extra touch of personalization, have a custom rubber stamp made. They range from $12-$20 and can used over and over again. We found these at etsy.com from Sweet Papery. Also available through Sweet Papery are custom save the date, address, and other charming custom stamps.
We have no doubt you'll fall in love with these whimsical and handcrafted cake toppers from Chapeau de Gateau. Each Chapeau de Gateau topper is individually created and handmade from the finest quality Mokuba ribbon, and is delivered in a keepsake box as a reminder of your special occasion. Each topper can be customized to suit your theme, color, or personal style. Owner and designer, Alison Dawson started her career as a jewelry, fashion and accessories designer, She expanded her talent by founding Chapeau de Gateau (meaning cake hat in French).
Check out her designs below...
Cake toppers ship from Toronto, Canada.
It’s all about the Cake. Do yourself a favor and get a close look at what it means to the baker/cake designer. Click here to learn more.
We'd like to take this time to say thank you to the troops serving or who have served our country. For those who are missing their loved ones, we send out a special prayer for you today too.
"Although no sculptured marble should rise to their memory, nor engraved stone bear record of their deeds, yet will their remembrance be as lasting as the land they honored." ~Daniel Webster
We think you'll love this new nail polish from Nicole by OPI. This innovative nail polish packaging makes painting your own nails so very easy. Rather than a typical polish bottle and separate brush, this "Nic Stick" works much like lip gloss because the paint and brush are all in one tube. All you do is shake, pump, and paint. So the next time you're in a hurry for a touch up, give the "Nic Stick" a try. Plus it comes in tons of great colors. Our favorite is "Date Night Red."
Pick yours up at your local Walmart or Target Stores.
The hot summer sun isn't the only thing that will be sizzling this year. You are getting married and that means your honeymoon is just around the corner. During this spring, its pretty hard to concentrate on anything else but your romantic honeymoon following all the upcoming festivities. So what if your wedding isn't until August! Start planning for your getaway now!
We've collected some of the hottest honeymoon items for your trip. If you are like most Northwest brides and grooms, and opting to honeymoon in a sunny climate, we've got just the items you need to cool down from the summer heat.
Most people love to read a good book while sitting poolside or lounging on the beach. But, how often have you left your book sitting on your towel while you take a dip in the water only to return to find your book has been drenched by a nearby cannonballing kid? We found a great solution! Check out the waterproof easy reads from Durabooks (below). These books are a collection of short stories, perfect for honeymoons since you'll be easily distracted by your new hubby. And the best part is, these books are completely waterproof from start to finish. So now when you take a dip in the pool, take your book with you. Available at Amazon.com.
Cool down with homemade ice-kabobs. With this nifty ice-cube tray all you have to do is add water or your favorite flavored juice and, voila, you'll have homemade Popsicles to keep you cool and refreshed all summer long. Available at Patina Stores.
Beach toys are certainly not just for kids. Grab these fabulous beach balls and swim tubes and head to the beach in style (below). Find these ultra stylish beach accessories at Design Room.
For those snorkeling trips or boat rides, what do you do with your cell phone and wallet? Check out the Waterproof Store for great water-friendly packs to keep your valuables dry. What's great about these items is that they allow you to use your electronics without even removing them from their protective cases. Check out our picks below including waterproof wallet cases and waterproof cases for your MP3, cell phones, cameras, and pdas.
We recently got an inside tip on a web article titled, "Maid Of Honor’s Bachelorette Party Guide: 50 Ideas and Resources." That's right, 50 ways to entertain your best friends and pamper the bride before her big day.
Here's a taste of some of the ideas featured in the article...
Wine Tour: Going on a tour of local wineries combines lots of interest into one. First, there’s great wine; second, there’s a road trip; third, there’s beautiful scenery. And did we mention great wine? Not all bridesmaids will have this option readily available, since not every state has a booming wine region, but you would be surprised at how many do exist outside of California. Just plan around the driving – hire a limo or stay in a quaint bed and breakfast in the region.
Road Trip: It’s a big occasion for your friend, so consider even taking a few days off of work and taking an old-fashioned road trip. Look into camping in the woods, staying at the beach, or just aimlessly driving lesser-known roads and ending up where the road takes you. Road trips are both adventurous and relaxing at the same time. See some new surroundings, meet some salty locals, rent a cabin in the woods, or bond around a campfire. Whatever you decide, it will definitely be a trip your friend will remember forever.
Champagne Brunch to Slumber Party: A bachelorette party is one of the better excuses out there to get a little tipsy in the a.m. And to make it even more fun – and to eliminate the possibility of any tipsy driving – extend the party into the night with a full-on slumber party. Start off by cooking a gourmet brunch, play games and open gifts in the afternoon, and cap it off by baking cookies and watching girly flicks in the evening.
Special thanks to Customized Girl for this tip. Customized Girl offers personalized clothes in their online store. Design your own t-shirts, tanks and more.
Top 10 NEW and UNIQUE Wedding Songs For Your Slideshow
Many couples today are including slideshows of their favorite photos as part of their ceremony or reception. Choosing the right music for your slideshow can be a difficult task, especially if you want something new and unique. We've compiled a list of our favorite newly released songs in several genres. We're hoping this will make the process of picking music a little easier for you. Some of these may not be your style, but we've included a wide variety and we know you'll find something you'll love.
10. Lucky By Jason Mraz with Cobie Caillet Album:We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things. Lyrics to make you melt: Lucky I'm in love with my best friend; lucky to have been where I have been; lucky to be coming home again; lucky we're in love in every way Why we love this song and you will too: This song is light and cheerful. It's the perfect song for anyone who has been in a long distance relationship for any period of time.
9. We Belong Together by Gavin DeGraw Album: Gavin DeGraw Lyrics to make you melt: We belong together; like the open seas and shores; wedded by the planet force; we've all been spoken for. Why we love this song and you will too: For anyone who loves to rock, We Belong Together is a classic example of how even rockers know how to sing about love. This song certainly isn't for the faint of heart, but sometimes the best things don't always come in pretty little packages.
8. Never Find A Love Like This by Natasha Bedingfield Album:Pocket Full of Sunshine Lyrics to make you melt: You’re the only one that knows me; Love it when you hold me; Never find a love like this. Let me hear you say; Now I’ll never be lonely; Look at what you’ve shown me; Never find a love like this We we love this song and you will too: This is the perfect song for all you high school sweethearts out there finally tying the knot. Listen to the song for the complete lyrics that will have you remembering what you felt like when you first met.
7. Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You by Lady Antebellum Album:Lady Antebellum Lyrics to make you melt: I love when you tell me that I'm pretty when I just woke up; And I love how you tease me when I'm moody but its never too much. I'm falling fast, and the truth is I'm not scared at all; You climbed my walls. Why we love this song and you will too: It's simple melodic sound makes it romantic and sweet. Plus, if you are a fan of country music, this song contains sounds you'll be drawn too. This would make a very good song for your first dance.
6. Cinderella by Steven Curtis Chapman Album:This Moment Lyrics to make you melt: Well, she came home today; With a ring on her hand; Just glowin' and tellin' us all they had planned; She says "Dad, the wedding's due six months away; And I need to practice my dancin'"; "Oh please, daddy please!" Why we love this song and you will too: Remember the song "Butterfly Kisses" that came out a few years ago and was used in almost every wedding for the father-daughter dance? Here is its replacement. This song is for any "Daddy's Girl." Just be sure to pack the kleen-x.
5. Angel by Jack Johnson Album:Sleep Through The Static Lyrics to make you melt: I’ve got an angel; She doesn’t wear any wings; She wears a heart that could melt my own; She wears a smile that could make me want to sing Why we love this song and you will too: This song has almost a lullaby quality to it. It's sweet and simple, and terribly romantic. This is an excellent first dance song.
4. Oh Love by Brad Paisley featuring Carrie Underwood Album:5th Gear Lyrics to make you melt: You can break a heart in pieces; Put it back together again; You can break down sweet forgiveness; You’re the one that never ends Why we love this song and you will too: Beautiful doesn't begin to describe this gentle ode to love that is tender and honest. This song could work for anyone who loves country music, but is not so "twangy" that it would turn off non-country lovers.
3. Say It Again by Marie Digby Album:Unfold Lyrics to make you melt: And it feels like it’s the first time; That anybody's ever brought the sun without the rain; And never in my whole life; Have I heard words as beautiful as when you say my name Why we love this song and you will too: Marie Digby is a crossover between pop and folk. This upbeat and cheerful song describes how love can creep on you by surprise. The song is certainly not complicated in any way, but we dare you to keep from tapping your toes.
2. Until You by Dave Barnes Album:Me and You and The World Lyrics to make you melt: There's a silent celebration for; Every breath you breathe; Now this all makes sense; With you as company; I left all I knew and found; A better part of me Why we love this song and you will too: Anyone who has ever been in love knows what it feels like to find the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. It's almost as if your life finally starts. And this song describes the feeling perfectly without being sappy.
1. Make You Feel My Love by Adele Album:19 Lyrics to make you melt: When the rain is blowing in your face; And the whole world is on your case; I would offer you a warm embrace; To make you feel my love Why we love this song and you will too: This song was originally recorded by Garth Brooks, but Adele offers a modern version. If you like Amy Winehouse, you'll love Adele and this ultra romantic song. The words are incredible and will melt your heart. There is no doubt, this song is a winner.
Of all the colors we've discussed over the last week, yellow is by far the most trendy color for 2009. And it's easy to see why. For some reason, although yellow is considered to be a light color, those who wear it seem to stand out in a crowd. After all, yellow is the color of sunshine, so perhaps wearing it makes you like one big ray of light in a dark room. Whatever the reason, yellow is hot color for this upcoming year.
If you are drawn to the bright, bold hues of yellow, here is what color analyst Leatrice Eiseman of MoreAliveWithColor.com says about you: you tend to be very outgoing and always have a positive attitude. You're likely to be innovative and idealistic, which means you're probably very daring and a true trendsetter.
So if this sounds like you, yellow just may be the color of choice for your upcoming wedding. And if so, follow our guide to help you choose the right shade.
COLOR: YELLOW
Women with dark skin, hair and eyes look incredible in metallic yellow tones like gold and bronze. Because their skin and hair already have dramatic features, wearing colors in these rich shades won't make them look over-the-top because they can stand up against them. Remember, you need to wear your clothes, you're clothes should never wear you.
Women with very light to medium hair and dark eyes should gravitate toward the lighter more natural colors of yellow like lemon and buttercup. Your light hair and skin already shine so pairing it with similar light colors will add natural radiance. Women with darker hair should try even lighter shades like pineapple, butter or cream.
Lastly, women with red hair and rosy skin should try a warm shade of yellow with honey undertones like caramel. Most people can't pull off a color like honey or caramel because their features are too contradictory for the shade, but women with red hair are able to carry off the color without looking washed out.
Top Left: Yellow sunflower table setting from Brides Bottom Left: ball-shaped scabiosa yellow boutonnieres from Brides Right: Yellow Pom Poms from Martha Stewart Weddings Bottom Right: Kate Spade Wedding Invitation Bottom Center: Yellow florals in black and white vases from Brides
Top Left & Center: Tasha Skinny Headband with Enamel Flowers available at Nordstrom Top Right: Judith Ripka 'Fontaine' Ring available at Nordstrom Center: Kenneth Jay Lane Large Enamel Flower Ring available at Nordstrom Center Right: Tasha 'Cracked Glass' Mosaic Bangle available at Nordstrom Bottom Left: Via Spiga 'Kathy' Sandal available at Nordstrom Bottom Center: Stuart Weitzman 'Hotspots' Pump available at Nordstrom Bottom Right: BP. 'Fabulous' Pump available at Nordstrom
Top Left: Tuxedo from the Men's Wearhouse with yellow vest and tie Top Center: Joseph & Feiss Gold Satin Tie available at the Men's Wearhouse Top Right: Campia Moda Silk Tie available at the Men's Wearhouse Bottom Left: Buttercup yellow suit available at the Tux Shop Bottom Center: Citrine Gemstone Cufflinks available at Cufflinks.com Bottom Right: Yellow quilted cufflinks from Cufflinks.com
Talk about making a statement. There is a reason they use orange as the color for traffic cones. Orange is one of the most eye-catching colors you can choose for your wedding. It's bright hues make it an excellent color choice for a spring and summer wedding. Typically people who are drawn to the color orange are extroverts, and are as outgoing as they are personable, which is why orange-lovers typically have a million and one friends. They crave social environments and are typically charming, happy and magnetic people. Sound like you?
If you are drawn to the color orange, here's how to choose the right hue for your wedding.
COLOR: ORANGE
Those with rosy complexions and medium hair look amazing in lighter more pastel versions of orange like peach and apricot. These orange hues with undertones of pinks and reds usually bring out your already warm features.
For those with olive and pigments of yellow in your skin with dark hair and eyes should try stronger shades of orange like tangerine and mango. People with olive skintones tend to look washed out if they accent their accessories with pastel or muted tones. So, don't shy away from these strong, bold colors.
Women with very dark skin, hair and eyes should try oranges with yellow undertones like melon and carrot. Like women with olive skin, you too need a bold color to pop against your skin. The yellow tints in these types of orange shades will warm your features and add a sunkissed glow to your face.
Top Left: Orange flowered cake from BridesTop Center: Orange frosted cake from Brides Top Right: Fancy fruitcake from Brides Bottom Right: Caramel apples from Brides Bottom Center: Spiced cider from Brides Bottom Right: Chocolate and orange and fig cake from Brides
Top Left: Linens available through Aria Style Top Right: Bouquet by Ravenna Bloom Bottom Left: Table setting from Brides Bottom Center: Bridal bouquet from Brides Bottom Right: Orange and beaded calla lily bouquet from Wedding Style Magazine
Top Left: Favor ideas from Brides Top Right: Fruit on display from Brides Bottom Left: Orange chair cover from Brides Bottom Center: Orange lanterns from Brides Bottom Right: Orange boutonniere from Brides
Top Left: Nordstrom Enamel Bracelet with Pavé Crystals Top Right: MAXX NEW YORK 'Thompson - Dégradé' Pleated Clutch available at Nordstrom Center Left: Alexis Bittar Medium Rose Quartz Baguette Ring available at Nordstrom Center Right: Lodis 'Bubble Diva' Clutch Wallet available at Nordstrom Bottom Left: Dabby Reid Ltd. Drop Earrings available at Nordstrom Bottom Center: Martinez Valero 'Camila' Sandal available at Nordstrom Bottom Right: Alexis Bittar Large Donut Necklace with Swarovski Crystal available at Nordstrom
If you love the color red, you also love drama. In fact, the more eyes are on you the more comfortable you feel in your own hot red shoes. Just think back to that song "Lady In Red" you danced to at your high school prom. Remember how everyone looked around to see who was wearing the featured color? Indeed, red draws attention. When it comes to your wedding, putting your bridesmaids in the color red will cause you to stand out even more in your white dress against the deep tones that surround you.
Red is a color that represents passion. Passion for life. Passion for romance. Passion for your fiance. It's no coincidence red is the color of love, which is also the reason the wide spectrum of red shades are often used in the most dramatic wedding themes. The color red demands that the person who chooses it must have enough personality and self-assurance to make it work. So if you are just the person to carry it off, here is how to choose the right shade of red for you.
COLOR: RED
Women with dark features, skin tones, eyes and hair usually gravitate to the darker red tones like claret and merlot, and for good reason. Women with dark skin, eyes and hair require bold colors to complement their deep features. Naturally, rich red shades melt into the body and make an already sultry woman even more seductive. VaVaVoom.
Women with olive or yellow skin pigments look incredible in more candy apple and berry reds. Muted tones will make you look washed out so choose a bright and sassy red shade to accentuate your already exotic features.
For women with more pink or rosy skin tones and light to medium hair should try a much lighter shade of red like coral or even pink. Midtone pastels work well with women with medium complexions and offer a natural and fresh style.
Left: Spaghetti strap, A-line from Bari Jay Style: 759 Top Center: Starlet taffeta from Bari Jay Style: 518 Top Right: Strapless, tea-length gown from Bari Jay Style: 756 Bottom Center: Halter, organza bodice from Bari Jay Style: 757 Bottom Right: Jolie satin, strapless, tea-length from Bari Jay Style: 501
Top Left: Calla Lilly claret bouquet from Wedding Style Magazine Bottom Left: Scarlet table setting from Brides Bottom Center: Red hypericum berries intensify the celosia’s vibrant red hue from Brides Top Right: Fireworks bouquet from Wedding Style Magazine Bottom Right: Red table accessories from Brides
Top Left: Paprika Gold linens from BBJ Linens Top Right: Composition wedding invitation from Elum available at Moxie Paper Goods Bottom Left: Table setting by Rented Elegance Bottom Right: Serve red kissed drinks, photo from Brides
Top Left: Dior Red Premiere Lipstick from Sephora Top Center: Calvin Klein red nail polish from Sephora Top Right: Kat Von D Painted Love Lipstick from Sephora Bottom Left: Martinez Valero 'Coca' Sandal available at Nordstrom Bottom Center: Martinez Valero 'Camila' Sandal available at Nordstrom Bottom Right: kate spade 'hera' pump available at Nordstrom Check back tomorrow for...
Feeling the blues? According to color analyst, Leatrice Eiseman of MoreAliveWithColor.com, those who love the shade of blue are typically gentle, loyal and discreet individuals. Much like a clear blue sky or the peaceful waves of the ocean, the color blue brings a sense of peace and tranquility to any setting, which makes blue an ideal shade for your wedding. Leatrice also says that people drawn to the color blue also form strong attachments. And what attachment is stronger than the vow of marriage?
Like the other colors we've already analyzed, blue also comes in many shades and tones. So if you choose to go blue, follow our guide to picking the right shade for you. (Hey, that rhymed).
COLOR: BLUE
For those of you with light hair and skin tones, light blue shades like sky blue or periwinkle are the right tones for you. This light shade of blue will make blue eyes look even bluer as they twinkle next to the soft and sweet color. This shade also pairs extremely well with crystals and rhinestone jewelry pieces.
Women with golden brown hair and hazel eyes look amazing in teal or peacock shades of blue. Plus this particular shade of blue pairs well with bright florals in complementary jewel tones like deep purple, magenta, royal blue, and chartreuse green.
Royal blue is an excellent color for women with varying skin tones. If you have bridesmaids who cover the gamut of skin complexions, royal blue is a great basic color that looks good on most women. Plus it's a great evening shade because it can stand out in against dark lighting.
Navy is a fantastic color for anyone who thinks black is their most complementary color. You may not want black as your wedding color, especially if you are planning a daytime wedding so navy offers the perfect alternative and looks especially good on women with light skin and raven hair.
Left: Acetate Jersey Gown from BCBG Top Center: Maggy London Cutaway Silk Dress from Nordstrom Top Right: Satin One-Shoulder Gown with Beading from Cache Bottom Center Left: Jim Hjelm Occasions Style: #JH5731 Bottom Center Right: Jim Hjelm Occasions Style: #JH5679 Bottom Right: Jim Hjelm Occasions gown Style: #JH5718
Top Left: Bouquet made of hydrangeas, tweedia, larkspur, thistle and dusty miller from Brides Top Right: Blue tablesetting from Brides Bottom Right: Grape hyacinth boutonniere from Brides Bottom Left: Blue glass vase from Brides Bottom Center Left: Blue Martini from Brides Bottom Center Right: Nautical cake from Brides Top Left: Turquoise vases from Plum Party Top Right: Napkins Bottom Left: Gumball Dispenser from Estilo Weddings Bottom Center Left: Magnolia mosaic hurricane lamp from Plum Party Bottom Right: Lanterns from Plum Party Bottom Center Right: Metal Boats from Estilo Weddings
Top Left: Glass coasters from Estilo Weddings Top Right: Starfish Glass Candle Holders/Dishes from Estilo Weddings Bottom: Chocolate truffles from Beau-Coup
If you are a fan of the color purple (and we're not talking about Oprah's Broadway musical) then you are most likely a true romantic. Purple is often associated with the royalty, and if you choose purple as your wedding day accent color, you're most likely also the type to dream about Prince Charming sweeping you off your feet. Leatrice Eiseman of MoreAliveWithColor.com says that purple is the color for dreamers because its slightly enigmatic and unconventional. It also represents a person's more secretive and seductive side. So if you like purple, you're probably also likely to play a little hard to get at times but you're alluring qualities keep your fiance pining for you all the more.
So if purple is your wedding color of choice, just what shade is right for you?
COLOR: PURPLE
For all you Snow White types with dark features and porcelain skin, we suggest deep purple tones in violet and grape, the more vibrant the better. These rich and bright shades will accent your features without making you look washed out.
If you have golden skin tones and always look like you've been sitting in the sun all day, we suggest shades of pastel colors like lavender and periwinkle. These colors will melt into your skin without taking away from your sun kissed glow.
Left: Maggy London Charmeuse Halter Dress at Nordstrom Top Middle: JS Boutique Mesh Babydoll Gown at Nordstrom Top Right: Maggy London Ruched Waist Halter Dress at Nordstrom Bottom Middle: Aidan Mattox Niteline Beaded Halter Dress at Nordstrom Bottom Right: Cachet Crinkle Taffeta Slipdress at Nordstrom
Above: Fondant cake with sugar-paste clematis, dark chocolate vine and sugar balls from Brides
Top Left: Bahamian Rhapsody boutonniere from Brides Top Right: Lavender sachet name place setting from Brides Bottom Left: Bouquet of anemones, ornamental cabbage, wax flowers and clematis leaves from Brides Bottom Right: Tulip centerpiece from Brides
Top Left: Gingham-veined vanda orchids pair with privet berries from Brides Top Right: Flowered monogram letter from Brides Bottom Left: Eco-friendly confetti from ecoparti.com Bottom Left Center: Crystal monogrammed cake topper from Beau-Coup.com Bottom Right Center: Personalized candles for favors at Beau-Coup.com Bottom Right: Purple candle holder from Plum Party
Sometimes getting your groom involved in the wedding planning process can be a daunting task. If you are trying to share the wedding planning experience with your groom-to-be and often receive that glazed over stare in return, check out this video recorded by a local groom who attended the Seattle Wedding Show this year. Consider it a mini-documentary from the groom's perspective. He was a bit overwhelmed by the experience, but offers insight into the male mind in a slightly humorous way.
In a recent InStyle Magazine article, style experts dissected the wardrobe color choices of the stars. According to many stylists, color choices say alot about your personality and its important that you choose shades that accentuate your complexion. Your color choices couldn't be more vital than on your wedding day. All week we'll be giving you color guides to help you choose a color for your wedding that is right for you. After all, even though you'll be wearing white, the colors your bridesmaids wear and the flowers that will surround you will directly reflect on you. So think of your bridesmaids as accessories...the better they look, the better you'll look too.
Read our color guide to find out what colors will look best to compliment your style and what those colors say about you!
Color: GREEN According to InStyle Magazine, green is a color that represents generosity. Those who like the color green usually are caring and balanced people. After all, we are in the day of age where people are living "green" and caring for the planet and the future. But green comes in many, many shades, so what shade is right for your wedding? If you are a blond with fair skin, think light green shades. Consider a bright shade of green like lime or kiwi or candy apple green. Lime greens are often mixed with yellows so it makes the perfect accents for golden locked brides. Red heads should strongly consider green as their color accent, and the deeper the better. Find a tone in olive, emerald or forest green. Red hair needs a strong color to stand up to it and these dark shades of green offer the perfect accent so you won't feel washed out.
Those with darker skin complexions should try on pale or pastel greens in mint, sage or celadon. This lighter tones will provide a vivid contrast to your skin to create a dramatic effect.
Top Left: Flower girl by Winnie Couture Top Right: Shoes from JCrew Bottom Left: Table setting from Brides Bottom Middle: Green grass escort cards from Brides Bottom Right: Green olive leaf wedding invitations from flushdesigns.com
We think you'll love these charming, and eco-friendly kitchen and house ware products from a company called Blossom Creations. Blossom Creations is dedicated to environmental sustainability and reducing the impact we have on the environment. To achieve this, we are dedicated to doing the following:
Using only 100% recycled paper and card (with the highest post-consumer waste content available)
Using hemp, organically grown cotton, and other alternative fibres
Printing with water and vegetable based inks
Using Environmentally Sustainable Design, Manufacture, and General Business Practices
Check out their eco-friendly products below including an apron (top left), napkins (bottom left) and kitchen towels (right).
You may have seen this new soda company popping up in places you've visited as of late. We had the pleasure of tasting samples offered at a local Nordstrom, and were pleasantly surprised at just how delicious and refreshing these flavored sodas were. We think they would make an excellent addition to your spring event. The sodas come from DRY Soda Co. a Seattle based bottling company. According to DRY Soda Co., they "offer today’s consumer a modern alternative in refreshment — a line of all-natural, lightly sweet sodas, flavored with fruit or herb extracts, and sweetened with a small amount of pure cane sugar."
And you won't believe the flavors they come in: kumquat, lavender, lemongrass and rhubarb. Our favorite is the lavendar, but they are all delicious with just the right amount of flavor and sweetness. These sodas make the perfect addition to a spring bridal luncheon.
Visit their tasting room and see for yourself. The Company Store and Tasting Room is located in DRY Soda’s headquarters at 410 1st Ave South in Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square neighborhood. Much like a winery tasting room, the DRY Tasting Room offers samples of DRY’s four cuisine-inspired flavors and the opportunity for customers to purchase in single 12-ounce bottles, four-pack carriers, 12-pack mixed and single flavor shipping boxes, as well as DRY Goods such as t-shirts, onesies and gift baskets.
We're taking you back....way back. Start planning your wedding retro-style. Whether your inspiration comes from the 60's, 70's or 80's we've got the bright and ultra bright colors and combos for your super sheik and super funky wedding day decor.
The best part about a funky wedding theme is the energy it brings to your event. Who can not have a great time with bright yellows, pinks and oranges adorning your space? There is just something in the patterns and color combinations that puts you in the party mood right from the start.
But obviously, most grooms are not going to want to have a completely bright pink, flowered and striped wedding. So be discerning in your choices. Choose one piece as your central eye-catching detail item, and then choose solids to pair it with.
We've found some great examples of those "wow" pieces you can choose to base your theme around.
Top Left: Modern cake featured on Brides Top Middle: Flower Power cake featured on Brides Top Right: Pastel adorned cookie cake featured on Brides Bottom Left: Yellow daisy cake featured on Brides Bottom Middle: Pink Power flower featured on Brides Bottom Right: Flower and Stripes cake featured on Brides
Top Left: Flower pouch favor from Favor Ideas Top Right: Gerber daisy favor boxes from Favor Ideas Bottom Left: Funky wedding favor tins from Beau-Coup Bottom Right: Tulip placecards from Favor Ideas
For the ultimate in retro sheik party table decor, check out Plum Party for fantastic party supplies. Just check out some of the great items we found there. And while these pieces are very bright, remember that just a touch of a brightly colored piece for your tables is enough to carry the theme across.
A hot trend in home decor for 2008 is mirror adorned furniture pieces. Mirrored pieces add sophistication to a room and go with practically any type of design style. So, if your fiance prefers a modern room and you lean more toward a traditionally designed space, mirrored furniture pieces are the perfect furniture for you because it will actually help you blend two styles into one.
The above buffet is available at Z Gallerie. Handworked antique mirrored glass over veneers and hardwood solids with antique silver finish. Side compartments have slots for adjustable shelves. This piece also has matching side tables, dressers, dining tables and more.
Also at Z Gallerie are several other mirror pieces in different designs. Check out just a few of their pieces below.
Once you get the furniture in place, top it off with accented decorated items. Check out these pieces, also from Z Gallerie.
Every girl needs a jewelry armoire like the one to the left! As glamorous as its movie-star namesake, yet as practical as we can make it - the Pier 1 Imports Hayworth Jewelry Armoire is all about functional fashion. This must-have for the bedroom or dressing area is handcrafted, hand-painted and covered with hand-cut beveled mirrors. Plenty of black felt-lined storage drawers and hangers keeps all her precious jewelry stored safely away. A Pier 1 Imports exclusive.
You never know where your next form of inspiration will come for your wedding. Often times, all it takes to find new and inspiring ideas is to just look around you. Right now on the magazine shelves you may notice bright and bold colors adorning the covers. This makes sense, as Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner. And no other festive event is more colorful and bold than Cinco de Mayo.
With rich blues, reds, yellows, greens and oranges, the bold colors of Cinco de Mayo can set a vibrant backdrop for your wedding decor. Take a look at some of the great items we've found to complete this look.
Left: Bridesmaid Dress from J Crew, $175 Right: Bridesmaid Dress from J Crew, $215
Top Left: Scarlet bouquet from Brides Top Center: Decorated chair back from Brides Top Right: Chinese Lantern Stems from Brides Bottom Left: Yellow, Red, Orange and Blue bouquet from Brides Bottom Right: Bright yellow tablesetting from Brides
Getting married is such an exciting time in a couple's life. Not only are you vowing to love and cherish, but you are also committing to join two personalities together in one household. Now is the time for you as a couple to create your own personal style together. This is your clean slate to start fresh with a whole new home and interior design and we've found some wonderful, albeit unique, home decor items we think you just might like. After all, you pride yourself on being unique as a couple and are all about setting trends among your group of friends.
We'd like to introduce you to some everyday home decor items with a twist. Below we'll post some images of these items. See if you can guess what they are made of. Find the answers below the image.
Item #1: The Placemat
You may not believe it, but this intricately woven placemat is made of recycled candy wrappers. That's right, if you look closely you'll see the familiar logos of the tasty treats you've been eating for years. This placemat is fun, playful, totally recycled, and calorie-free, to boot! Pick yours up for $26 at VivaTerra.com.
Item#2: Decorative Bowls
You'll never guess what these handcrafted decorative bowls are formed from. Inventive natural sculptor Margaret Dorfman brilliantly transforms edibles into luminescent vessels. Building her bowls slice by slice from fresh produce, Dorfman presses each one into durable parchment, which she hand-shapes to resemble large, bright undulating flowers with vivid repeating patterns. Invisibly coated to maintain their vibrant translucent colors, the bowls comfortably hold a votive candle in a cup. The bowls above are made from Zucchini, Papaya and Beets. Retails for $42 and available at VivaTerra.com
Item #3: Glassware
These may not be as difficult to figure out, but boy are they innovative. Chalk one up for originality for this fun glassware. Comes with white chalk to write on, then erase and re-label as often as you like. The wine and beer glasses are great for a party as guests can write their names on their glass. You can also write expiration dates on the labels for the storage containers. Retails for $6-$12 and available at Cost Plus World Market.
Banquet & Event Resource, Inc.
(B&E) has a 17 year history in providing Western Washington's
best resource guides, websites and tradeshows. Visit our wedding planning website today for the most comprehensive wedding resources available today on the web for the Seattle area and beyond.
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