There are several reasons why so many brides and grooms select black and white for their wedding. First, its simply elegant. Second, it never goes out of style. And third, you can pair any (and we do mean ANY) other color in the rainbow with them. We love this black and white checkered themed wedding. Its fun and whimsical yet trendy and sophisticated all at the same time. No matter where your wedding is taking place or the time of day of your event, a simple black and white wedding always works.

Theme: Check Mate
Colors: Black, White and Brides Choice


Top Row: Courtly Checks by Mackenzie-Childs; Black & White checkered dance floor from Delaney T. Bagwell Associates; Real Wedding - Katie & John
Second Row: Table decor image by Amanda Kraft; Table from Sally Tone; Cake via event designers Vine Floral and Event Design
Third Row: Image by Gigglesnaps Photography; Boutonniere via Vine Floral and Event Design; Black & White couch via Fric and Frac
Bottom Row: Checkered earrings by Future Momo Jewelry; White Calla Lily bouquet via Photobucket; Wedding gown by Tara Keely

Labels: Boards

Labels: Local Events

If the state of the economy has still got you bummed out and penny pinching, we've got all the best beauty products that won't bust your budget. Check out our favorite drugstore finds that will keep you beautiful and on budget.




1. Olay In-Shower Body Lotion: We've heard it said a million times..."moisturize, moisturize, moisturize..." So when we tried this product by Olay, we we hopeful it would do what it promised. Olay Ultra Moisture In-shower Body Lotion works with the warmth and humidity of your shower to reveal soft, smooth skin after just one use. Just put it on your legs in the shower and you literally won't have to put on lotion again for the rest of the day. We say Horray for Olay!

2. Maybelline Volum' Express Turbo Boost Mascara: Thick, femine lashes don't come naturally for everyone, so if you can use a little boost to your dull lashes, we highly recommend Maybellin's Volum' Express Turbo Boost Bascara in Very Black. The masquera stays soft and light on your lashes and doesn't clump. It goes on easily and thickens with one swoop. Great buy!

3. Sleek.look by Matrix Smoothing System Shampoo & Conditioner: We are always on the hunt for the best shampoo that will leave our hair silky-smooth without being to greasy. Our latest love is by Matrix. Try Sleek.look for a truly slick and salon-ready style that will leave your hair shiny and healthy looking.

4. Colgate Wisp Portable Mini-Brush: Fresh breath is always a turn-on, but if you are also a girl that likes extra onions on your burger, you need a little extra help to stay minty. We love these Portable mini toothbrushes by Colgate that easily slip into our purse and let us freshen our mouths throughout the day. You don't even need water. These brushes work great for that quick brush in your car on your way to your afternoon meeting.

5. Neutrogena Moisture Oil Free Formula, Sensitive Skin: We've heard it said a million times...the best way to healthy skin is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. But with so many different types of moisturizers on the market all ranging in price, how do you know what the best product is for the money? There is a reason why some of the manufacturers remain at the top. Try Neutrogena's Moisture Oil Free Formula for Senstive Skin. The formula is smooth and silky and won't feel greasy or heavy on your skin. It's great under makeup or to put on before bed. Just remember to also wear a SPF if you are going to be outside.

6. Salon Grafix Professional Shaping Hair Spray Styling Mist, Unscented Super Hold: If there is one beauty product you can save money on, it's HAIRSPRAY! Salon Grafix Professional Shaping Hair Spray keeps your hair in place all day long and its a great bargain.

7. Biosilk Silk Therapy, Silk: If you have naturally try or frizzy hair, you'll love Biosilk Silk Therapy. Just comb it through your wet hair after you wash it and before your blow dry it and notice the added shine it gives your dull hair.

8. Blistex Medicated Lip Balm, Regular, SPF 15: Chapstick is a godsend in the summer and our favorite brand of all is good-old-BLISTEX. The version that does the trick for our chapped lips is the Medicated version that also includes an SPF of 15 which is always an added plus!

9. Maybelline Define-A-Brow Eyebrow Pencil: This tiny pencil makes precision a breeze when its time to shape and fill-in those patchy eyebrows. Comes in several colors so find the match that is right for you.

Got a drugstore beauty product you can't live without? Share it with us in our comments section below.

Labels: Beauty, How-Tos, Ideas

If you live in the Seattle area, mark your calendars for these amazing bridal events at The Princess Bride Couture Bridal Salon, located in Bothell, WA. The Princess Bride is located in Bothell's Country Village at 720 238th Street SE, Bothell, 98021. The Princess Brides features hundreds of gowns in every style and to suit every budget. Call today for an appointment: 425-488-5558!

The Princess Bride is also currently working on an expansion to their Bothell store and will soon feature a special occasion section. Save the date for August 14-16 as you can get a sneak peek of this new addition!

Paloma Blanca Trunk Show
July 24 thru July 27, 2009

Bridal Accessories Sale July 31 to August 3, 2009
Veils, Headpieces, Tiaras,, Shoes Slips, Bras, order from us on this weekend only and receive 15% off with 2 of more items.

FREE Gift Bags for all Brides to Be August 8 and 9th, 2009
With purchase of a bridal gown.

Sneak Peak at our New "Princess Prom & Special Occasion" area August 14 to 16, 2009
We are adding on to our store! Are you going on a Vacation,Cruise or attending a Special Event? Come check out our new addition.

Pronovias Bridal Trunk Show 2009/2010 Collections August 28 to 31, 2009
We are Seattle's Premium Pronovias Dealer

2Be Bride Trunk Show September 4 to 14, 2009
Traditional Wedding Gowns for the Bride to Be

La Sposa Trunk Show September 18 to 21, 2009
2009 and Preview 2010

San Patrick Trunk Show September 25 to 28, 2009
Designer Bridal Collection Gowns

Sophia Tolli Trunk Show October 9 to 12, 2009
2009 Designers Collection of Bridal Ball Gowns

Diamonte Trunk Show October 17 and 18th, 2009
Custom Wedding Gowns -create your own with the help of in house designer, Kathy Diamond.
Choose fabrics, styles and lengths. Call for your appointment today.

Labels: Beauty, Fashion, Local Events

Today we have a special guest blog written by Jilly Eddy, a Lipsologist in the Seattle area. What is a Lipsologist you ask? Read on to find out more.

By Jilly Eddy, Lipsologist
Love is in the air and so are kisses blown from the bride and groom to their family and friends as they depart on their honeymoon. Weddings are a time of many parties and lots of opportunity for exchanging hugs and kisses. Our kisses are sweet and sentimental and informative whether flying through the air or frozen in time with a lipstick kiss on paper. Interpreting those kisses on paper is a fun, unique entertainment for your wedding reception, bachlorette party or bridal shower.

Your lip prints tell your story and reveal information about your personality and energy and how you interact with others. They tell things like who needs a vacation, who is well organized and a perfectionist or who likes to give lots of hugs. Lip print reading is lots of fun for everyone. Everybody wants to find out what their lips have to say, from the ring bearer to the best man, from the mothers of the bride and groom to the grandmas (and even grandpas). There will also be wonderful photo opportunities with people putting on lipstick and kissing paper. So be sure and have disposable cameras handy.

For your shower or bachlorette party you’ll want to bring your fiancés lip prints with you or if it is a surprise, the person planning your party can arrange to get them and the lip print reader will interpret them too. There are all kinds of things we’ll be looking for like; “Hug Puckers,” “Gourmet Lip Splits,” “Gerbil Wheels,” and even “Angel Wings”! Also, it is fun to have someone write down what the fiancés lip print’s have to say and then give this information to him or her later.

Your professional lip print reader (Lipsologist) will bring everything that is needed for your guests to make their lip prints; lipsticks, mirrors, cold cream and Kleenex (some people like to take the lipstick off after they’ve made their prints), pens and personalized Kiss Cards for your guests to keep as a lovely memory of your special occasion. You supply the lips!

Lipsology
Jilly Eddy
Lipsologist
www.lipsology.com

Labels: Ideas

You may have noticed all the recent reincarnation of the 60's in fashion stores and magazines as of late. Love it or hate it, the 60's made a huge impression in the fashion world that will continue to resurface for decades to come. Since the summer of love seems to be back in style, at least for now, we've developed an inspiration board sure to put the groove in your wedding day design. So rev up the love bug, we're taking you back to a time of peace, love and flower power.

Theme: Summer Lovin'
Colors: All the colors of the rainbow


Top Row: Hippie Wedding via Elizabeth Dye from Oregon Bride; Hippie Wedding via Elizabeth Dye from Oregon Bride; Striped bridesmaid halter gown by Catherine Malandrino
Second Row: Hot pink VW bug by Kimberly Thomas
Third Row: Hippie wedding dress by Diane von Furstenberg; Encrusted headband via Perfect Bound; Flower Power wedding invitation via Blossom Accents
Bottom Row: Flower power cake via Brides; Bouquet image by Rae Leytham; Colorful Streamers via Karen Wise Photography

Labels: Boards

It may only be July, but to retailers across the country, it's "back to school time." So what does that mean for all us grown-ups....? It's time to save on some of the hottest summer items that are going on sale. And for those of you that are planning your registry, or just a summer-get-together, check out these hot summer deals we found at our favorite home stores.

Below: William Sonoma


Below: Sur La Table


Below: Cost Plus World Market

Labels: Food and Beverage, Gifts

The greatest part about a tented wedding is the endless possibility for wedding themes. Often times, when you select a venue, it will have its own unique personality and it can be difficult to merge your style with the decor and colors of your reception or ceremony site. By having a tent wedding, you can basically start from scratch with theme and colors and you are not confounded by the structure and style of an existing space.

If you have a specific theme and color palette in mind for your wedding, but can't seem to find the right space to fit your vision, talk with your local tent rental company of the types of tents available to you. You will be surprised to discover all the options available to you, from open spaces to fully enclosed formal tents, the possibilities are endless.

Here are a few of our most favorite "tent wedding" finds. We hope you enjoy!


Images by: Amore Studios, Seattle, WA


Images by: Karen Wise Photography


Above Wedding by: Delaney Todd Bagwell, Event Planner

Labels: Color, How-Tos, Ideas, Trends

Sometimes a girl just wants to play dress-up. And since we are no longer children, the only time we can truly put on the ritz is at our wedding. So if you are a girl who loves glamor, makeup and being the center of attention, a Hollywood Glamor wedding is just the right theme for your big day. So bring out the feathers, diamonds and sequence, this one is going to sparkle!

Theme: Hollywood Glam
Colors: Black, White & Diamonds


Top Row: Vintage glam wedding from The Knot; Image via Blue Orchid blog; Bouquet via PhotoBucket
Second Row: Image via Polyvore; Vanity Fair image via Pop Sugar
Bottom Row: Carrie feather fascinator by Chameleon Designs via Wedding Magic; Glamour Invitations and table design from My Creative Wedding; Silver sequence clutch via Think Pink

Labels: Boards

Scenario: You've dreamed of the perfect outdoor summer wedding, checked the farmer's almanac and settled on a foolproof August day. But, now with the wedding just days away, the looming weather forecast is calling for rain. Despite the "rain is goodluck" theory, you are devastated and fear your beautiful outdoor wedding could be ruined. So what is the remedy?

Brides today are opting to make the most out of bad weather by incorporating colorful, theme-appropriate umbrellas into their wedding day decor and photography. Truly beautiful umbrella and parasols are available to buy or rent for the day, and as you can see from the photos below, they can actually add to the ambiance of the wedding.

So plan ahead, order your umbrellas in advance, in even if the sun does shine on your wedding day, use the umbrellas as fun wedding decor or in your wedding photography.


Images by: Sakura Photography, Vancouver


Above: Karen Tran Weddings

Labels: Ideas, inspired, Trends

Looking for a truly unique wedding favor idea that is also healthy and nutritious? We encourage you to check out Mix My Granola where you can choose from more than 70 different ingredients to customize your individual granola mix. Mix My Granola developed the concept of custom granola mixes that are perfect as wedding favors that guests can munch on at the wedding.

Their granola and the ingredients are super healthy, taste delicious and are top notch quality. The price and nutrition facts for your individual granola mix are calculated live as you add different ingredients. Mix your ultimate granola mix and give your granola it’s individual name, save it in your account profile and check out. Your custom-made granola is mixed, filled in our sleek Mix My Granola Tube and shipped to any location in the U.S. Delicious!

Click here to contact Mix My Granola for special wedding favor options.

Labels: Favors, Food and Beverage

The 2009 Major League Baseball All-Star game is just around the corner...and in honor of all you die-hard baseball fans, we have created the ultimate wedding theme with just the right amount of fun and timeless charm. We've designed a wedding inspiration board around the theme of baseball, with a touch of vintage magic. After all, baseball is America's pastime, and what better way to celebrate a union than to "Root, Root, Root" for the bride and groom.

Theme: Take Me Out To The Ballgame
Colors: Bronze & Blush


Top Row: Peanuts & Crackjacks Wedding favors from Rebecca Thus; Vintage canvas from Geministudio's Shop; Image by Rob & Laura
Second Row: Baseball concessions and candy from Rebecca Thus; Image by Stephanie Williams Photography; Bouquet by Vintage Design Company
Third Row: Image by Rob & Laura; Image by Tory Williams Photography; Image via Jena D Events
Bottom Row: Sparklers image via Sugar Love Weddings; Ring bearer clothes from Dapper Lads;

Labels: Boards

Every now and again, we go on the hunt for the best wedding and lifestyle blogs. We've conveniently added some of our favorites in our "Good Reads" section. Here are a few recent additions we think you need to check out...

1. Lotus Haus - The complete lifestyle blog for all things girlie! From weddings to fashion to home decor inspirational ideas, this blog has it all.

2. Coco & Kelley - You'll fall in love with the ideas and color boards created by blogger Cassandra LaValle. Based out of Seattle, Cassandra calls herself "obsessed with style, presentation and design."


3. Poppytalk - If you are the do-it-yourself kind of bride, then you'll love the ideas and creativity of Poppytalk.


4. Karen Tran - If you love all things pretty, then you will absolutely fall for the ideas and design expertise presented by Karen Tran. Based in San Diego, Karen presents floral centerpieces that truly wow and inspire. We dare you not to fall in love.

Labels: Color, Fashion, How-Tos, inspired, Real Weddings, Social Awareness, Trends

Labels: Local Events

Awww the summer. Is there anything better than a warm summer night? We don't think there is. So in honor of the magic of summer and the upcoming 4th of July weekend, we've designed an inspiration board that can't help but make you smile. If you are planning a summer wedding for next year or happen to live in a place that feels like summer all year round, this patriotic-inspired board should trigger ideas for your Red, White & Something Blue wedding.

Theme: 4th of July Wedding
Colors: Red, White and Blue, of course


Top Row: Image via Nibs Blog; Strawberry Shortcake from Southern Living; Bicycle image via Life Love Lipstick
Second Row: Image via Life, Love Lipstick
Third Row: Cake by Whipped Bake Shop; Bride and Groom image via Nibs Blog
Fourth Row: Fourth of July Reception available on Flickr

Labels: Boards