Vanilla Bake Shop

I'm sure many of you have heard of Vanilla Bake Shop, they're famous for their cupcakes, which are rumored to taste as lovely as they look! I haven't had the pleasure of dropping by the bakery myself, but even Martha is raving about them! I love the look of their website, it's simple, retro and packed with tons of photos. I spied this sunny yellow cake that I just couldn't stop drooling over.

It's a fresh color that would compliment a spring wedding wonderfully!

Check out the Vanilla Bake Shop for more yummy pictures!

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Paper Wreaths

A new take on wedding wreaths... with paper! Elizabeth Jackson creates these intricate wreaths from pages of antique books, then adds personal touches like the butterfly, or a little message. How delightful would it be to have Elizabeth create a custom wreath for your wedding out of your favorite poetry book, or childhood story?

Visually, I love the way the paper cones layer onto each other, exposing bits of color and text. And, if you're at all crafty, you could add a silky ribbon with a monogram or a pair of love birds to it!

Check out her Etsy shop: Haru. See her Flickr albums for more photos of custom wreaths.

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Cake by Flours

I am in love with this sparkly cake by Flours! I'm a big fan of the little details, so the floral piping on each layer just makes me melt! Flours is based in San Francisco, and serves the Bay Area, Napa, and Sonoma Counties. Just looking at a few of their suggested wedding cake flavors makes me think this tasting session would be well worth it! I mean how can you resist Berries and Cream, or Coffee!

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Love Birds Cake Topper

For a one stop shop for everything wedding related, you absolutely have to stop by Products with Personality. They have everything from favors and accessories to party supplies and announcements! I love this contemporary cake top, for the love birds! It's subtle, sweet and will obviously go with any color scheme! Picture this on an all white cake... can you see it?!

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Navy Blue Inspirations

Navy blue is one of my favorite colors, especially for weddings. It's polished, modern and punchy! I also love combining it with natural green and white floral arrangements for even more color contrast! Here are a few ideas I threw together for my sister-in-law... enjoy!

Links (left to right): blue bouquet, modern centerpiece, hydrangea bouquet, mini cakes, dress, flower box centerpiece, berry and blue bouquet, pure green bouquet, soft white centerpieces, wildflower whites, gift box.

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Happy Monday

I really hate to do this, but I'm going to have to hold off on any posts today. I'm overloaded with some last minute projects and will be focusing all of my attention on them today. Hope you all are having a wonderful Monday!

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Cordon Bleu Fromage Plates a la Target

Gotta love this set of cheese plates, perfect for hosting appetizers and drinks, as a lovely married couple! I found these at my oh-so-trendy-go-to-store; Target. Check out the wine country inspired plates here!

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Valentines at Bold Loft

Have you seen these adorable sets of valentine's mugs from Bold Loft? There are so many designs to choose from, and each one makes me smile. Plus, who doesn't need another coffee mug around the house, especially if you can match your hubby or fiance!

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Favor bags from beaucoup

beaucoup never fails to please me when I'm looking for something new. I saw these little "to-go" bags on their website and wanted to snatch some up for my next dinner party. I love how casual and fun these are, perfect for surprising guests with a little treat. They're italian made and embossed with a light floral design.

The twine doesn't come with them, but is a great idea to add that flavor of the outdoors to your favors! If that doesn't suit you, check out the handful of colored ribbons found at beaucoup!

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Photographic moments by Mel Barlow

Love this photo by Mel barlow, its so playful! This is one of those inspirational moments that should help encourage you to have some fun at your wedding! Let loose and don't be afraid to act a little silly. Many of our favorite wedding shots are the result of being a little playful, they're unique and personal... so get out there on your big day and create some unforgettable memories!

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April Foster Events Giveaway!

The lovely April Foster of April Foster Events is holding a week full of giveaways, in honor of her new website and blog launch, starting today!

Giveaway: Day 1 is actually a set of thank you cards made by yours truly! I can't wait to see what else April has in store for us! Check out her blog for more information.

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Glass jars turned vintage

Lately I've been intrigued by those lovely vintage blue glass jars you see on the tables of chic outdoor weddings. I did a little bit of research on these, to see how economical they were in bulk, and found that they can range anywhere from $5-$15 per jar, depending on how rare they are. I was a bit surprised by this, and thought there had to be a better way to achieve the same look, so I went in search of a way to "dye" a regular quart sized jar, to mimic the look of the old Ball Perfect Mason Jars.

Here's my photo recap:

I used a product called Vitrea 160, which is a transparent color for glass, in a shade called turquoise. I also purchased some thinner from the same product line, so I could get a really faint look. After scooping out a small amount of the turquoise color (a dot about the size of the nail on my pinky finger) into a plastic tupperware container, I dipped my fan brush into the thinner bottle and then mixed that into the blue. That's really all you need, and after I was finished, I realized I could have colored 5 more jars with the amount of turquoise I had left.

I flipped my jar upside down and placed it into another plastic tupperware container, then brushed the outside of the jar with the mixture in thin, even strokes from top to bottom. It looks a bit bright and cloudy at this point, but bear with me! You then have to let it set for 24 hours before you bake it in the oven for 40 minutes at 375 degrees F. After it bakes and cools, the majority of your brushstrokes should disappear, so don't worry if it isn't perfect! Once you fill the jar with water and flowers any small brushstrokes that may still be present will fade even more.

The best part of this project (besides the fact that it's super easy) is that it's cheap. The two bottles of Vitrea 160 were $8.00 total, and the glass jar was free (leftover container from MIL). If you didn't have any relatives who could give you 12 or more glass quart jars, you could easily buy them from any grocery store or craft store, or look on craigslist. Here are a few links: Walmart (12 for $17.98), Amazon (12 for $7.72). So basically you could do a case of 12 jars for about $1.50, not bad! Throw in a $7.00 supermarket bouquet and you're in business!

NOTE: This project is best suited for use with flowers and water, rather than with candles. Any brush strokes that may be left over from baking the jar will be hidden by the water and stems.

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Digital Paintings by labokoff

Before Christmas time, I decided to purchase a few original pieces of art from Etsy seller labokoff. She's based in Paris, France and combines her photography and painting skills to create these lovely digital renderings. I love them all but decided on going with the sous la pluie and the coquelicot. I knew they'd be the perfect addition to our dusty blue bedroom walls, that severely lacked character.

Here they are!

I'm so happy with the prints themselves, and I think you all should check out the Etsy shop of labokoff! She has a wonderful line of postcards for sale, that would be just perfect as table numbers or in lieu of a guest book!

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DIY Valentines for Kids

I saw this adorable idea for a DIY valentine project on the Martha Stewart site. It's so appropriate for kids, and would probably save you some money if you tend to go for the store-bought candy valentines. Plus how fun and easy would this be for your own kids!

A little unrelated to weddings, but I had to share none the less!

Learn how here!

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Blogs We Love: Weddings Unveiled

Weddings Unveiled has recently been added to the list of my favorite wedding blogs! From the creators of the Weddings Unveiled Magazine, this blog has some amazing recaps of real weddings, and practical ideas for the the whole planning process.

Right now they’re sponsoring a yummy giveaway… new cookbooks from Baked! Run right over to the blog and post your favorite cake cutting photos! 

Flip through the stunning Weddings Unveiled Magazine here!

 

 

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Jumbo balloons take center stage

Balloons pretty much scream party, so why not scream a little louder with these jumbo balloons. They're so adorable as embellishments at a birthday party, but also versatile enough to be featured at the cake table as well!

I love the fact that the balloons take center stage, so large floral centerpieces are no longer necessary. This might also be a good option if your venue has high ceilings, or for a dramatic entry way.

Pink party, white wedding.

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Food Stylist: Paul Lowe

Food stylists have always intrigued me, especially since I’ve hosted a dinner party or two. I mean presentation is everything! I’m really inspired by the blog of food stylist Paul Lowe. The images on his blog and site are marvelous! I also love the fact that he includes a few recipes with some of his posts (Recipe Monday). Way to share the love Paul!

Check out Paul's blog for many other design, craft & food inspirations!

Beautifully styled dishes will, no doubt, make your guests feel special and important. It's a detail that is rarely overlooked! Take note if you want your caterer to present a tasty and pretty dish to your guests at rehearsal or your reception!

Skagen salad, Brie cheese, Prune & Yoghurt cocktail, Spring rolls. 

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Heart of Gold, paper mache valentine

Just popped over to the Etsy shop of Palomasnest to see what was new and found these fascinating paper mache valentines. They're adorable!

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Meant to Bee

A honey inspired wedding... how sweet!

As I’m sipping my honey laced chamomile tea this morning, it occurred to me that this sweet substance could be a great color and theme inspiration for a wedding! Outdoors, amongst the birds and the bees, is where you’ll find this spring-time wedding.

Top: Happy couple, wreath, shoes, candle, necklace

Middle: Invitation, burt's bees body oil, bee bar moisturizer, honey favors, cake

Bottom: Daisy pomander & wildflower bouquet, paper pomander, honeycomb, lemonade, wildflower bouquet, honey bear candles

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Michigan Photographer: Ben Harrison

Another fabulous Michigan vendor I thought I would share with you all… Ben Harrison Photography.

I caught up with Ben and his wife, Laura, last week where they filled me in on the details of their fresh photographic outlook.

Ben and Laura have been shooting weddings together for 4 years, after relocating to MI to attend Kendall College of Art & Design for Ben’s MFA in photography. These two seem to be some kind of super team, producing the most moving photos, and really keeping their hearts in it.

Ben had stated “… I realized that I had a passion for documenting love and relationships and basically dove in headfirst!”

Even though the couple is based in Michigan, they are available world wide, and really enjoy shooting in new locations. It’s a great way for them to stretch their creativity and comfort zone. Plus who could blame them for wanting to escape these dreary Michigan winters?

I asked Ben & Laura to classify their photographic style, and they came back with; Creative, Modern, and Authentic. I would have to completely agree as their images evoke visual delight, keep with the current trends, and follow along on the bride and groom’s journey.

Check out their website and blog for more incredible images!

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Harmony: the jewelry and the dress

Bonnie from Bonita J, the online jewelry shop, has some insightful tips on how to pick the perfect accessories for your big day!

Pulling your entire look together for your most beautiful day is one of the fun parts of planning your wedding.  Finding the right bridal accessories to match that gorgeous gown is essential to polishing off your look.  A wedding necklace is the perfect accessory to draw attention to the detail and style of your gown and here are a few hints to consider when selecting your wedding necklace.

A beautiful draping lariat is the perfect wedding accessory for that backless dress. With luscious pearls and crystals flowing in a beautiful pattern down your open back, you’ll look stunning walking down the aisle.  This type of necklace can also work well for strapless gowns.

The sweetheart, scoop neck, and v-neck style gowns all have several wedding necklace options. Many accessories flatter these gowns, but a y-drop or pendant style necklace accents your neckline perfectly.  The drop style works well to add a simple and classic look with coordinating colors that draw attention to the neckline.  Other options to accent these gown styles are chokers, single strand, multiple strand necklaces and illusion style necklaces.

The jewel, bateau and halter necklines limit your selection if you want to avoid them overlapping your gown.  The choker style necklace or small single strand necklaces look the best. This is because the high neckline only allows a small area to fit a necklace nicely.

Portrait or off the shoulder gowns, asymmetric, scoop neck and square neck gowns work well with single and double strand necklaces.  A nice way to add a little drama to the neckline is to double up your necklace, have a longer and shorter version of the same necklace that you wear together or add a chunky style necklace for a fuller look.

Whatever necklace you decide on to compliment your wedding attire, pick the one you fall in love with, that makes you fell pretty, and accentuates your best features.  Remember that after the wedding is over, your wedding day jewelry can be worn for many more special occasions, unlike other accessories.

Here are a few examples of Bonnie's beautiful wedding accessories:

You can find options like these and much more by visiting the Bonita J website, here!

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Out-of-Town Bags

Out of town bags are a great way to welcome guests in a personal way, which is why each set can differ from one wedding to another. While you may throw in hot cocoa packs and chocolate chip cookies, someone else may include margarita mix and tequila! I recommend including things that are important to you both as a couple, or things that are unique to the area. Either way, here are a few suggestions that anyone would enjoy!

Sources: coffee, chocolate cookies, carrybag, water, champagne, map, amber shower gel, shower and bath gel.

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Guest Room at the Cronkright Household

I don't usually flash many pictures of my home on my blog. I'm a little shy, and am well aware that it is a work in progress. There are so many little things I want to change, places to paint, hardware to change, and wallpaper borders (shudder) to take down. But I think I'm getting closer to actually finishing our guest room, maybe because it's filled with flea market finds and bargain buys, what could be easier? I was also very motivated by the latest transformation of my "sewing chair", and decided I had to share. You see, I bought the chair at the habitat for humanity store, in pretty rough shape. I've finally had time to recover the seat and coat the whole thing in a creamy shade of ivory.

You can take a peek here, at my flickr photostream for more images. Don't be too critical!

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Dress-up your bouquet

Flowers are gorgeous by themselves, but you could always pair them with some bouquet jewelry for added glamour! Add a little sparkle to your blooms by using pearls, crystals, charms or even antique brooches! This can be a very special way to include a message, photo, or keepsake into your wedding day.

Above you will find a few of my favorites.

Sources: Row 1: left, middle, right

Row 2: left, right

Row 3: left, right

Row 4: left, middle, right

Row 5: left, middle, right

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Modern Rock Ring by metalicious

I saw this amazing ring on Etsy and am loving this clever design! It closely resembles a hefty 2 carat diamond, but upon closer inspection, it turns out to be completely silver! It definitely makes a statement, and is just as stunning as a real diamond, in my opinion! I just love it!

Check out the Etsy shop of metalicious for more awesome jewelry designs.

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Snow & Graham

For Christmas this year, my sister-in-law and her boyfriend got me this charming calendar from Snow & Graham in Chicago. It matches my taste and office decor so well, I was just beyond words when I opened it up. I'm just in awe that I have 12 lovely pieces of artwork hanging on my office wall!

Well, I had never really taken a close look at the work of Snow & Graham before, so decided to explore a little and came across their stunning website. Check it out. They produce a number of things including letterpress stationery, invitations, wrapping paper, and much more. I'm still drooling over their pretty prints and fresh graphics!

I'm secretly thinking about purchasing a roll of their marvelous gift wrap, but not wrapping anything with it, because it would be too painful to give it away. I'm just going to hoard it in my top desk drawer and take it out when I'm having a bad day. (sheesh)

Some additional inspirational images:

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Ring Pillows from estilo weddings

These silk ring pillows are handmade and so unique! I love all of the beautiful blooms and bright colors... I think I could plan an entire wedding around this one little detail! And an added bonus: they take custom orders! Check out their extensive collections at estilo weddings.

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River Rock place cards

Incorporating mother nature into your wedding decor can be both beautiful and rewarding, which is why I love this river rock place card idea. I found a simple River Rock Marker Kit Zanisa for $15. You could also find suitable stones from your local area instead of buying them... just use this post as an inspiration!

Aren't these twig pencils so unique! Maybe they could double as guest book pencils!

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LOMO: Actionsampler

Lets put a twist on the trend of leaving disposable cameras at each table... introducing the Actionsampler by Lomography. If you haven't heard of Lomography, run right over to their official website, here. These little cameras are packed with four lenses, that's right, four! With one shot you get a series of four images on a single print, ideal for capturing those 5 second moments! These particular cameras do not have a flash, so outdoor shots will probably yield the best photos. I can just picture a few of these set out among guests and the bridal party (with directions of course), and some entertaining action shots being developed after the wedding. This would make for one memorable album!

Here are a few shots taken by Actionsampler lovers.

sources: Top, Left, Right

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Vintage French Inspiration at Junebug Weddings

If you haven't already, you absolutely must check out this post over at Junebug Weddings. It's an extravagant vintage french inspired wedding... and they didn't hold back one bit. I think I'm in love with this look!

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Red, Yellow, and Grey inspirations

Looking for a bold yet chic color scheme for your wedding? Go for a few bright hues, like red and yellow, paired with a neutral shade of grey! The bright colors keep things exciting and the grey tones it down, keeping it classy. My favorite part of this inspiration board are those Christian Louboutin shoes... oh! Who doesn't want to own a sexy pair of red shoes?!

(row 1): Cake, gown, cookie favors.

(row 2): Lemon centerpiece, red shoes, stationery.

(row 3): Bridesmaid gown, pearls, place setting.

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Blooming Box by Muscari Designs

Think spring! I know I will be with another snow storm on it's way to Michigan!

The Blooming Box is a great alternative to a ring pillow, by Muscari for $45 (found at Brides.com). If you'd rather not spend the money, you could always DIY it with materials found around your garden! I just love the grass and daisy details, which could create some pretty nice ring shots as well!

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