Oh So Beautiful Calligraphy

In addition to the post below, about handwritten correspondences, also check out the fresh introduction of Paperfinger, a new calligraphy service in Brooklyn, NY, at Oh So Beautiful Paper!

Handwritten Correspondence

I love the personal feel of handwritten wording featured in many invitations and save the dates lately. It’s personal, warm and creative. I adore how simple these pieces are, as you can really appreciate the way each letter looks, rather than being distracted by other embellishments. If you wanted to jazz it up a bit, you could always add a colorful envelope, mat, or enclosure card (with more handwriting goodness)!

I haven’t completed a project like this for any of my clients, but even so, my handwriting wouldn’t be worthy of this. I would probably have my grandmother do the honors, she has magnificent handwriting, and it would mean so much more to me!

You could easily turn this in to a DIY project by writing out one invitation on a white sheet of paper, then scan it, and adjust the contrast, then print! If you’re familiar with Photoshop, you could even change the color.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.

Passionate Dream

I think I’ve said it before, but I’ll go ahead and say it again, signature cocktails are one of my favorite ways to personalize a reception! With cool colors and funky names, you can’t go wrong!

Here is a recipe for Passionate Dream, straight out of Semi-Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee. This one kicks up that traditional margarita recipe by using pomegranate and cherry juice. Combine the innovative recipe, with its pretty presentation and you’re sure to please your guests!

DIY programs + a CD bonus!

I love this DIY project, featured over at Style Me Pretty today, sent in by Bliss Weddings Market. I've always been a huge fan of those little pocket fold invitations, so this is right up my alley. And this way, guests get a fun mix of songs to listen to in the car between the ceremony and reception!

Favorable glassine bags

I’m obsessed with glassine bags lately, and I’m not sure why! Maybe it’s because they’re always folded and tucked away so neatly, and you have to rip open the packaging to see what’s really inside (hopefully something edible). I think the best part from a DIY perspective is that glassine matches everything! Sew it up with thread that coordinates with your wedding colors, or even get a custom sticker made with your monogram… it all works!

There are so many varieties of these little bags, and ways to close them up, so here are a few inspirational images.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12.

Press & Post

I'm in love with the idea behind Press & Post, it's genius! I would be so excited to receive a monthly subscription to Press & Post, ahem, and my birthday is on May 13th.

But seriously now, if you're not familiar with Press & Post here's a little blurb taken straight from the etsy shop of sarahparrott825:

"As a Press & Post participant you will receive one limited edition letterpress card, at least two, often more, vintage postage stamps, & one kraft envelope - a pretty little package ready to drop in the mail."

Graphic Inspired Cakes

Browsing theknot.com for wedding cakes ranks somewhere up there with buying a new pair of shoes… in my book at least! I love all of the polished and unique ideas, they really inspire me to think outside the box in my own designs on paper.

Above are a few of my favorite modern, graphic inspired cakes!

Recipes for the Bride

Being a new bride, you’re probably going to need some helpful recipes to get you started, which is why I love the idea of “gifting” recipes at a bridal shower. You can include recipe cards with the invitation, ahead of time, or provide them and a self addressed envelope at the end. Either way, this set of letterpress recipe cards, complete with recipe box would be perfect!

I was given some very special recipes at my shower and am so thankful for the yummy ideas, they really helped get me started in the kitchen!

Happy Spring!

Finally, the day has come! I’ve had spring thoughts in my head ever since March officially started, and even though I know it could still snow here in MI, I’m happy.

Here is a gorgeous spring engagement session shot in April of last year by HyStudio.

Double Duty: Flowers

Flowers are a beautiful way to dress up your ceremony site, but it can be hard to shell out the cash when you’ll really only be enjoying them for a few hours. Make your flowers work double time, as they fill your church and then later at your reception!

I love pomanders for this specific reason... after they're done dressing up your aisle or pews, you can repurpose them in a vase or on the back of your chair.

Sources: Row 1; 1, 2, 3. Row 2; 1, 2, 3. Row 3; 1, 2, 3.

Celebrate Beautifully with economical centerpieces

Love this post over at Celebrate Beautifully on centerpieces under $20! Looking at the photos, I actually favor some of these simple arrangements more than their elaborate counter parts!

DIY accordion-fold pocket program

This post by Mrs. Cupcake, over at Weddingbee caught my eye this afternoon!


Update: The post has been removed from Weddingbee for the time being. In the mean time, see the original tutorial from Martha Stewart.

Programs can say a lot about the evening ahead, similar to the way an invitation can hint at the wedding day.  These DIY accordion programs are creative and resourceful… way to go Mrs. Cupcake!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Whether you're having a St. Patrick's day wedding, or just have a little irish in you, these accessories would be the perfect lucky charm!

four-leaf clover box, pocket garden, pressed clover, clover pendant, claddagh ring, bouquet, invitation, cuff links.

My Island Wedding Blog

A big thanks to Kelley at My Island Wedding for including us in her wonderful wedding vendor list! If you haven't already, definitely check out the MIW blog for some inspiring ideas!

Something Blue

I'm a pearl girl, all the way. I totally favor pearls over anything else in my jewelry, which is obviously why this little beauty caught my eye. Delicately hand made with a splash of "something blue", this necklace would be the perfect addition to any wedding gown.

I love the packaging too, so classy! Visit Something Blue on Etsy for more beautiful designs!

Bridal Portraits: It's all about you!

Bridal portraits are one thing you absolutely cannot forget about on your big day. It’s the perfect time to capture your excitement and beauty at that very moment, and will be such a great memory for you to look back on.

These shots are from one of my favorite Michigan photographers; Jessica Johnston.

Edible Art by Le Cupcake

Australia based cupcake artist, Kylie Lambert of Le Cupcake, has an eye for frosting. I saw Kylie’s extensive portfolio on her blog and flickr site, and was in awe of her talent. I honestly don’t think I could eat on of these little treats, I would rather trap in under a glass dome and save it for eternity!

Unfortunately I won’t be in the Sydney area anytime soon, but I will be following the Le Cupcake blog for more inspiration and ideas!