Emerald Isle Style

As many of you well know, oftentimes my inspiration for a new design begins with fabric. This time, a glimmering vintage brooch was the spark that set the fire. When I came across a brilliant, rhinestone crystal shamrock, I immediately knew this brooch had to become the focal piece for a new ring pillow. This brooch was so inspiring, I've decided to add an entirely new collection to the bridal shop -- each centered around a vintage brooch.

Once I had this brooch in hand, I knew exactly which fabric would be its partner -- an emerald green and ivory linen toile designed by Laura Ashley. The delicate flowers and vines of this print grace a creamy background. A coordinating double-sided, green and yellow satin bow and this pillow was complete. To me this pillow speaks softly of the ever-beautiful Emerald Isle -- something we can all appreciate. After all, whether or not the branches of our family tree sprouted in Ireland, we can all certainly use a little "luck of the Irish".

Irish Blessing

May the light of friendship guide your paths together.
May the laughter of children grace the halls of your home.
May the joy of living for one another trip a smile from your lips, a twinkle from your eye.

Thank You, Carolyn

Over the summer, I had the opportunity to collaborate with a lovely bride-to-be. Carolyn had a wonderful vision for her wedding flowers. I am thrilled that I was the designer she choose to work with!

This past Saturday, I received a surprise -- photos of the wedding! Every photo was taken by a family member adding to the natural quality and intimate appeal of the event. I am excited to be able to share these with you today!

A rainy afternoon in Ocean City, Maryland gave way to brilliantly sunny skies, just as Carolyn was ready to walk down the aisle. This beautiful beach location, with the ocean as their backdrop, was the perfect setting for the bride and groom to exchange their vows.

 Carolyn's Bouquet: A cluster of creamy hydrangea and roses with accents of eggplant colored hydrangea. Ivory satin ribbon with a band of eggplant colored satin and a row of hydrangea blooms completes the look.

 Beautiful mother-daughter photo.

 This one just makes me smile every time!

The newlyweds dance their first dance to "God Bless the Broken Road".

Congratulations to you both! I wish you much happiness as you begin your life together!

Tea Time

The ever-evolving style of weddings has been trending towards more cozy, intimate, family-oriented affairs. Outdoor events that begin in the early afternoon and stretch out well past midnight give all of the guests a chance to spend quality time together. Celebrating with a combination of traditions from both the past and the present is a wonderful way to make guests of all ages feel right at home.

Wouldn't a relaxing tea party highlight the afternoon? Everyone could stretch out under the sun while chatting and sampling a variety of teas and cakes. Picture charming tables set with luxurious linens, pretty china, and crystal vases bursting with roses.

Garden Tea Party

Speaking of tea and roses, a ring pillow is what inspired this post. A garden of beautiful roses blooms over a tea-colored backdrop. This vintage inspired fabric is a charming way to infuse the charm of days past with the beauty of something new. The darling fleur de lis button at the center is the perfect finishing touch!

Tea Rose Ring Bearer Pillow

Blue Autumn

 When planning a wedding with an autumn theme you may consider the rich tones of the season -- garnet red, golden yellow, vibrant pumpkin, or cocoa brown. While blue may not be the first color that comes to mind, it certainly shouldn't be forgotten. For example, sapphire blue would be a wonderful starting point for your color palette. It is, after all, the birthstone for September. There are so many shades of deep blue to choose from such as navy, cobalt, cerulean, Prussian blue and cornflower. Further, as blue is a complimentary color to orange it will coordinate beautifully with all of the tones which we more traditionally think of when we picture the autumn season. 

Using deep sapphire blue as a jumping off point, I've put together an inspiration board for a "Blue Autumn" wedding.

Think about incorporating the blue color in the dresses, hair accessories, invitations, shoes or perhaps even the ring bearer pillow. Then, just a touch of the autumn colors, perhaps in the bouquets and table settings will go a long way.

Top Row: 

Bridgette One-Shoulder Dress care of Dream Dresses

Gorgeous Autumn Bridal/Bridesmaid Bouquet by Gamma Flowers

Beautifully Handmade, Dark Blue Hair Flower by Picotee

Bottom Row: Vibrant Blue Floral Invitations by Orchard and Brown
Colonial Blue Oak Ring Bearer Pillow by Avenue C Bridal
Sparkling Blue Martinez Valero Shoes care of In Their Closet

The ring pillow is one of my own design. It showcases a shade called Colonial Blue. The pretty oak leaf pattern is a subtle nod to the autumn season and the vintage inspired button adds a touch of rustic charm. Best of all, this pillow is reversible so you can select the side with the ivory background and blue leaves or the blue background with ivory leaves.  

Colonial Blue Oak Ring Bearer Pillow

Autumn Mosaic

It's no secret that autumn is my favorite season. One of my favorite things to enjoy during this season is the changing colors of the leaves. When I came across a new variety of vibrantly colored silks, I just had to incorporate them into a new design! This sweet accessory is a wonderful alternative to the traditional ring pillow. Wedding rings can still be easily secured to the top and it's petite size is perfect for little hands. As a bonus, this everlasting treasure can also double as a cake topper. Either way, it will be a wonderful keepsake that will allow you to hold a piece of autumn's glory all year long!

Autumn Mosaic Alternative Ring Pillow