Loving...Flair

there has been some buzz around about this new entertaining book by decorator Joe Nye, Flair: Exquisite Invitations, Lush Flowers, and Gorgeous Table Settings (Rizzoli, $30). i have it in my shopping cart on amazon right now! this covers everything from sending your invitations to putting a scented candle in the bathroom. Joe truly gives an effortless approach to what can usually be a stressful event when you invite friends and neighbors into your home. simple elegance, ladies, isn't just about style, it's a way of life!

i do love to entertain! i wish i could do it more, but when i get the chance, i delight in looking for new fresh ideas on how to do so. it's not a competition but rather a chance to make my guests feel not simply comfortable but also enjoy a certain sense of thoughtful hospitality. i don't think most people today have such moments often. so yay for Flair and those who love to entertain well! i can't wait to get this!



{images: elle decor}

Romantic Garden Party

good morning, ladies! i am so pleased to present to you my latest endeavor, Romantic Garden Party! with simplicity in design and a cure for the hopelessly romantic bride out there, here is a fresh take on a traditional wedding. we brought together vivacious fuchsia peonies, luscious greenery, brilliantly cut crystal glass and opulent, intricate designed invitations, to create a concept that would ignite the passionate love story of a man and a woman coming together in a life long union.





with a slight vintage flair, Annette from Swanky Tables created a beautiful dessert table by incorporating an antique white vanity, etched crystal dessert trays and bright anemones. and those extremely delicate confections? those were created by the extremely talented Le Cookie Monkey. and take it from me, they were delicious!




the tablescape was complete with a white pin-tuck tablecloth, antique gold rimmed white china, sweet crystal wine and champagne glasses, crisp white hotel napkins and a touch of whimsy with a budding peony and name card. much of the inspiration came from ease of fresh whites paired with the romance of the etched glass and fuchsia peonies. as the sun began to set in the midst of this beautiful green garden that night, the reflection of the light onto to the etch glass was absolutely memorizing.




i still can't get over how beautiful the invitations are! Megan and Jen from Hi, Friend designed a strikingly extravagant suite that exudes romance and class. by working together the rich gold and beautiful fuchsia tones, it truly becomes one of the statement pieces of the wedding.



and these peonies?! Lisa of Studio del Fiore did such amazing work creating the simple elegance of the table--gorgeous! these were simply placed in delicate bunches inside etched glass vases that came straight from our mother's and grandmother's cupboards. there was no need to make sure every vessel matched and that the beauty of the design. it's an eclectic, traditional approach to items that reside in our family and friend's homes. as for the candles, and i chose to use tall, dramatic candlesticks to enhance the romance of the atmosphere.





and of course, the crew. here we are! it was so unbelievable fun to work with these talented ladies! thank you all for being a part of this.

{from the left: Annette, Dani (me), Jessica, Lisa, Megan}


CREDITS:
Wedding concept design and production: Weddings Fresh
Photography: Jessica Hill Photography
Floral design: Studio del Fiore
Invitation suite and paper design: Hi, Friend!
Tablescape rentals and desert table styling: Swanky Tables
Desserts: Le Cookie Monkey

Old Fashioned Cotton

i've seen cotton used in a wedding before but i find this one so brilliantly comforting. isn't this just charming? there has never been a better time in the world of weddings to incorporate non-traditional elements than right now. who would have thought cotton balls, wooden stumps and antiqued leather luggage would one day inspire such a warm and inviting event? it's fantastic! don't be shy, and don't worry about trying something a little daring, go for it and make your wedding unique and beautiful!
...and yes, in case you are wondering, i am still in pajamas today... :)





{images: jasmine star via pretty chic blog}

Bold Desgin

ooh, i love this tablescape. yeah, you might be thinking you've seen enough peacock feather weddings lately, but this The Starry Night inspired wedding brings the inspiration to a new level. the gorgeous peacock blue and gold is the bold jumping off point for the decor. with splashes of bright orange, soft whites and a brilliant burst of cherry blossoms in the center of the table, the design is a beautiful display that has less emphasis on peacock and more on sophisticated whimsy. did you notice the detailing on the menu card wonderfully coordinates with the detailing on the cake? LOVE IT!

check it out here for a list of all the amazing vendors involved in this creation, headed up by the talented wedding planners & event designers from Every Elegant Detail.




{images: What Junebug Loves!}