BellaLina Designs

Emerald Isle Style

2011-09-19T13:30:00.003-04:00

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

2011-09-15T13:47:00.000-04:00

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

2011-09-09T12:17:00.000-04:00

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

2011-09-06T13:14:00.001-04:00

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

2011-09-05T15:59:00.000-04:00

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

Graced with Lace

2011-09-05T13:25:00.003-04:00

It's wonderful to see lace re-entering the bridal scene! As the popularity of this unmistakably feminine embellishment grows, it can be found dressing up bridal gowns, shoes, jewelry, invitations, table linens, bouquets, and all things in between.

The versatility of lace is remarkable! For example, a subtle touch added to a bouquet or hair fascinator adds a sweet softness. On the other hand, a gown that is completely covered in lace lends to a romantic and dramatic feeling.

As color also plays an important role in the wedding celebrations of today, consider colored lace to make an unforgettable statement. A blue lace sash is a wonderful way to incorporate "something blue" into your bridal ensemble. Extend lace detailing to the bridesmaids' gowns and you've connected each individual dress into one very memorable suite.

Black continues to remain influential in the world of weddings. The black lace ruffle on my first featured ring pillow creates a graceful silhouette. The "Noir Lace" ring bearer pillow pairs this elegant ruffle with beautifully detailed, off-white jacquard and a handmade organza flower.

Take a look at how the same black lace, applied in a different fashion, creates a completely unique result. The "Cerise Lace" pillow showcases ivory satin, covered in lace. A pop of color from a brightly colored flower adds just the right amount of flair.

No matter if you decide to add a little or a lot, gracing your wedding day with lace is sure to make an impression!

There is Just Something About Lavender

2011-09-02T14:32:00.000-04:00

Such a perfect word for both a flower and a color! As a flower, lavender's scent always seems to evoke romance, peace and grace. As a color -- timeless in its elegance and strength -- lavender is appropriate for any season. It's bright and lively, blending seamlessly with a fresh spring or summer color palette. At the same time, the rich tone of lavender can add incredible depth to an autumn color scheme or just the right amount of softness to a winter wedding. One of my new ring pillows is inspired by this lovely word.

Several moths ago, while on a fabric "hunt", I discovered a remarkable fabric. An ivory chiffon which is accented by gorgeous satin flowers, creating a lace-like effect. The satin roses, lilacs and leaves are punctuated by highlights of lavender and the most subtle touches of sage green. As soon as I saw this fabric, I knew I had to have some. I also knew it had to be used for something brilliant! So, I waited for the right inspiration to come along...

In August, I was experimenting with new materials to broaden my Camellia Collection. My wonderful ivory and lavender fabric immediately came to mind. Layering it with ivory satin as well as lavender chiffon brought out the pastel hues of the flowers. I decided that the best way to showcase my little treasure was to leave as much of it exposed as possible, so I strayed from my use of sashes allowing the pattern to shine through. All that was needed was a rough-cut, chiffon camellia. The flower adds a touch of rustic charm and ties this pillow into my Camellia Collection. The final touch -- a glimmering rhinestone centerpiece and this pillow is complete and ready for all of you to see. Enjoy!

Lavender Chiffon Camellia Ring Bearer Pillow

Creme "Fresh"!

2011-09-02T13:14:00.003-04:00

The month of August brought plenty of hot, sticky weather to Central Florida. My solution to the summer heat: Time for some fresh additions to the shop!

I spent a good portion of the daytime hours indoors, air-conditioned, in a workspace filled with cool, cream colored satin, silks, lace and all kinds of vintage lovelies.

The result is a series of new ring pillows that mesh classic elements with modern touches. A win-win situation for the modern bride! Take a peak and enjoy the always "refraiching" color of cream!

These new beauties are part of my Camellia Collection.
Each is crafted with dupioni silk and embellished with a completely handmade flower which is centered with a sparkling rhinestone crystal accent. The pillow below goes one step further with the addition of a layer of intricate dot lace -- a lovely alternative to a more traditional floral lace!

Now, I think I'm ready for a bowl of late summer strawberries, peaches, raspberries and blueberries with a touch of crème fraîche? Sounds divine, doesn't it?

Thank You Alyssa!

2011-07-23T12:06:00.000-04:00

How lucky I am to be able to design flowers for such wonderful clients! Earlier this year, I collaborated with Alyssa to create her wedding flowers. It was a pleasure and honor to work with her -- from start to finish!

This week I received a brilliant surprise -- a series of gorgeous photos of the event! I feel blessed to be able to contribute even one part to such a memorable day. Being able to see how all of the elements blended together is an equally thrilling opportunity!

What a lovely bride!

What can I say about Alyssa's dress?! The style is classic and chic, and all of that lace is truly an inspiration!

The bride and groom on a beautiful spring day at the end of May.

I adore this photo! The charming vintage feeling it conveys is a testament to the work of a truly gifted photographer named Kiley Mullen.

Zinna's may not be the first to come to mind when selecting your flowers -- but this bouquet is a perfect example that they are a remarkable choice. Accents of freesia are ideal when paired with such sweet blooms.

Last, but not least!!

How adorbale is this? I can't quite put it into words, but I smile everytime I see it! It's amazing how one photo can evoke such feelings of peace and joy!

You can view more Kiley's work here.

Once again, thank you Alyssa! Your thoughtful and generous note brings me joy whenever I read it.

Never Enough

2011-06-07T14:04:00.007-04:00

There is never enough space on my walls for all of the art I want to hang there.

Such as these reproductions of vintage prints from Vintage by the Seashore.

Or these vintage corbels (c/o Faded Prairie) which I would like to use as supports for a shelf.

Or these photo collections by Little Brown Pen Photography.

Ahh...but a girl can dream...

Maybe someday.

Surrender Dorothy

2011-06-06T15:11:00.001-04:00

Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE flowers. Maybe it is because so many of them remind me of the house I grew up in. I would always look forward to the change in seasons back home. During the spring and summer, blooms would pop up all around the perimeter of our house. Mom and I would cut fresh flowers in the morning while they were still cool and moist with dew. We enjoyed arranging bouquets and placing them throughout the house. The fragrance was incredible!

So while some might say I overdo it, all I can say is that I am just drawn to flowers and things with flowers on them. It doesn't really matter what -- fabric, shoes, accessories and definitely artwork. I have so many favorite fowlers -- not necessarily the more traditional roses, but definitely peonies, tulips, ranunculus, hydrangea, lilacs, anemones, lilies and poppies --
Did someone say poppies? These are why I was very excited to find an artist by the name of Shirley Novak. No only does she paint gorgeous flowers, but many of her works include poppies. I don’t know how long I will be able to resist these art prints...

I adore the color palette in this one - it would be perfect for my workspace.

Lots of orange in this one!

Just gorgeous!

Bold with great detail!

Growth

2011-04-18T22:29:00.000-04:00

My two favorite times of the year are the transitions from winter to spring and from summer to autumn. True, the weather can be rather volatile, but the first warm day after a cold winter (or cool day after a hot summer) makes me feel more awake and aware of my surroundings. Currently, I am filled with thoughts about the scent of fresh spring flowers, the bright green of the new grass and buds on the trees, the sounds of the birds chirping, and the feel of the chilly breeze as it conflicts with the warming sun. Inspiration is everywhere!!

The latest addition to my Copper Canyon Collection is a tribute to of all the wondrous growth that the spring season represents. Rich, antique copper juxtaposed with vibrant turquoise is perhaps an unexpected combination to some, but to me -- it's an obvious choice. I admire how the darkness of the metal reveals the intricate details of the branches. I've shaped them into deep curved nests. Resting inside are glorious oval-shaped turquoise beads. They are enriched with veins of brown matrix, reminding me of little robin's eggs securely tucked into their nest. These earrings are bold, bright, and no doubt a compliment to the season itself!

Growth Earrings

While considering all of the changes in the environment, I can't help but become a bit reflective about how I have changed and grown over the past year. I wonder what changes are in store for me over the year ahead...

Emmaline Bride

2011-04-16T19:42:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to announce that my designs are now part of the Emmaline Bride Marketplace as well as their Bridal Book of preferred vendors! Emmaline Bride is a wonderful guide for brides who are searching for unique handmade items. Here you will find memorable additions to your special day from accessories to veils and everything in between! I have already begun posting my very own handmade creations which you will find in the bouquet, jewelry, accessory, ring pillow, flower girl basket, hair and sash sections. I look forward to adding many more designs over the next year.

Spring is Blowing In

2011-03-05T16:41:00.000-05:00

March is here and so are the winds! With them, some sunshine and the feeling that Spring is on its way. The change in seasons always brings new inspiration for me, especially in regards to bridal bouquets.

Here is a preview of my newest, hand-tied arrangement. Rich ivory roses combined with dusty rose colored orchids, lavender alstreomeria and lilac blososms create a heavenly bouquet! Tulip leaves have been transformed into decorative loops, surrounding the blooms and adding a refershing pop of green. The finishing touch is the ivory satin surrounding the handle and French-knotted overlay of rose colored ribbon. Welcome Spring!!

Here are a few of my other springtime favorites. (All available at Avenue C Bridal. )

Dawn Declaration

Timeless Devotion

Something Borrowed

2011-02-25T14:09:00.000-05:00

A definitely have a weakness for jewelry -- especially vintage and antique pieces. Earlier this week, I spent some quality time with my mom looking through my Nannie's collection. It was wonderful to remember her and talk about the pieces she loved to wear. There were so many gorgeous pieces but these are a few of my favorites.

A stunning marcasite brooch which my grandpa gave to her. The sparkle effect, created by the faceting of the marcasite, highlights the MLR monogram at the center beautifully.

My grandpa gave this set (circa 1950), which includes a necklace and pair of earrings, to my Nannie for Mother's Day. Over the years the chain on the necklace became worn, so I replaced it with a vintage inspired chain. Even my mom admits this chain looks better than the original. The necklace is a bit formal, so I don't think I will be wearing it too many times, but the earrings are definitely something I can work into my wardrobe. I can't wait!

Holding these pieces allows me to feel a little closer to my Nannie. I think about who she was and what she liked to do. I wonder what she was feeling when she wore them and how pleased she would be to know what they mean to me. She was such a remarkable woman and truly in an influence in my life.

New Today

2011-02-15T21:29:00.000-05:00

A little ivory glam for your wedding!

The New Dreams Bouquet

2011-02-10T21:28:00.000-05:00

I'm so pleased to share a new addition to my bridal shop with you! It is appropriately named the "New Dreams" bouquet as it represents to me both the new dreams that my clients are creating as they begin their journey has a married couple and those which I have for my shop as well. My goal for this particular design was to incorporate vintage inspired elements in a truly modern way. A rich cluster of vanilla colored hydrangea, fully open roses and ranunculus is hand-tied to create this bouquet. The classic round shape is highlighted by luxurious ivory satin covered stems. French knotting the ribbon and accenting it with pearl-tipped pins provides a undeniably elegant texture. The final touch is the intricately detailed ivory colored lace that completes the stems with vintage flair. This bouquet can also be made in a variety of other colors including white, pink, apple green, yellow, coral, violet and red. I so look forward to creating custom bouquets to coordinate with the color schemes my clients have been selecting.

This gorgeous bouquet is currently available in my shop Avenue C Bridal!

Shades of Elegance

2011-01-26T14:29:00.000-05:00

This month I've finally been able to add a new centerpiece design to my bridal shop, Avenue C. An antique silver vase filled with shades of white flowers, ranging from ivory to cream to ecru, is a wonderful way to dress your reception tables. They are beautiful on their own and look exceptionally well when grouped together or lined down the center of a long table. These petite vases can also be customized and filled with colorful clusters of flowers as well as holiday inspired accessories and greenery. Accessorizing them with candles of all sizes and shapes is also a terrific idea. You will love how the light reflects from the surface of the vase!

A Wedding on the Beach

2010-11-24T12:31:00.000-05:00

I am always thrilled when one of my clients takes the time to share a few wedding photos with me. Being able to see how everything came together is so exciting!

Joann was wonderful to work with and I feel so honored that I was able to contribute a small part to her special day!

A close up of the bridal bouquet I made featuring calla lilies and violet colored phaleonopsis orchids.

What a darling photo! Joann's sweet little flower girl is wearing one of the phaleonopsis orchid hair combs which I made for the bridal party members. I just love the little purple bucket she is carrying. It was a perfect choice for the location of the wedding -- this beautiful white sandy beach in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

All of the beautiful photos were taken byTammara and Grant Terry from Tamm's Photos.

Lovely Lace

2010-10-27T23:26:00.000-04:00

Here is a preview of the latest addition to my Jeweled Poppy Collection. It will be making its debut tomorrow. This little gem is inspired by someone very close to my heart -- my baby sister!

Plum Inspiration

2010-10-20T16:30:00.000-04:00

I recently found a few items at Ruche which have inspired the second edition of my autumn wedding series.

Purple is a wonderful, and perhaps unexpected, color for an autumn wedding. Although this romantic color may not be the first that comes to mind when thinking of the fall season, it certainly lends to the romantic, warm and rich feeling that a bride and groom might want to express on their wedding day.

The idea of incorporating rich shades of purple in tones varying from the softest lavender to the deepest plum is very appealing to me. Pair those with subtle cream, champagne, and soft gold and you have a look that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests!

Above:
Clockwise from the top: Hydrangea Hair Comb by Elizabeth of Eternal Eden - a brilliantly beautiful hair accessory for the bride, bridesmaids or flower girl.

Serenade Bridal Bouquet - a lovely and romantic cluster of flowers for the bride c/o Avenue C.

Classic Trio Earrings by Ollipop (available at Ruche)

Plum and Pink Stripe Tie by Vivian of Tie Obsessed - coordinates perfectly with the Serenade Bridal Bouquet. Vivian creates gorgeous silk ties rich in texture, pattern and color for every occasion!

Jeweled Poppy Ring Pillow in Amethyst - part of my Jeweled Poppy Collection.

Eggplant Ornamental Place Cards by Autumn of Shine Invitations - simple, elegant and beautiful.

Dusk Bridal Bouquet - a recent addition to my bridal shop, Avenue C.

Lilac Felted Wool Acorns by Donni of Fairy Folk - adorn the tables at your reception with these darling and colorful acorns.

Amethyst Crystal Cuff Links by Laura of Specimental- the perfect finishing touch for the groom!

Lavender Wedding Cake by Cakegirls - has the perfect hint of color and lovely off-white scroll work detailing.

Special Note: I am terribly sorry to learn of the devastating fire that struck the Cakegirls' shop this past summer. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Cakegirls.

Center: Enchanting Miss Petunia Strapless Dress (available at Ruche) This dress would be an incredible bridesmaid's dress. Imagine your bridal party in this dress with a gorgeous cream colored shawl!

Thank you to all of the talented artisans who have been gracious enough to accommodate this post!

Camellia Collection

2010-10-20T14:54:00.000-04:00

Over the past few months, I've been working on a new collection of ring pillows. They are inspired by one of my favorite flowers, the camellia. I am planning to debut this addition to my bridal shop, Avenue C, this November. Thought you might enjoy a preview.

Autumn Weddings

2010-09-02T13:05:00.000-04:00

By far, my favorite season is autumn. From the changing color of the leaves against the bright blue sky, to the rustle of the crisp refreshing breeze as it sweeps through the trees -- its the perfect time for a wedding! The rich warm tones that can be found in the fall season provide a wealth of inspiration. Every detail from the flowers and dresses, to the table settings and the lighting can be influenced by this wistful and romantic season.

Over the next few weeks I will be putting together several collections -- all inspired by the autumn season. My first collection focuses on the transition from summer into fall. Here you will see the brighter shades of orange and yellow blended with the deep greens of late summer. Enjoy!

It all beings with the invitations...

Taylor's Paperie has created these beautiful invitations. The love birds sitting on the bench and the colored leaves are my favorite details!

Visit Taylor's shop for more creative wedding invitations.

and continues with THE dress....

This gorgeous satin dress is covered in lace! It is classic and elegant and sure to make a lasting impression.

Bridal Designs by Erin

These delicate hair pins, by Jaclyn, would add just the right touch of color to the bride or her bridesmaid's hair style.

JewelryByJLy

For the bride who is not afraid to sport some color! This triple strand necklace is sure to make a bold statement!

These sparkling Swarovski crystal and sterling silver earrings would be a charming gift for the bridesmaids to wear on the wedding day.

"Rejuvenate Necklace" and "Wavelength Earrings" by BellaLinaDesigns

Orange and yellow Gerbera daisies are a vibrant addition to the bridal party.

Bouquet and Boutonniere by Avenue C Bridal

A handsome tie for the groom or groomsmen! The rich, green backdrop truly allows the warm orange stripes to pop.

Handcrafted by RabbitStop.

This incredible cake topper will remain a treasured keepsake long after it adorns your wedding cake.

Handcrafted by The Felted Pair.

An edible masterpiece which must have taken hours to complete! I love the application of lace/eyelet-like scallops around the tiers. The brightly colored fall leaves are beautifully arranged and not over done. The gentle beaded trim provides just the right finishing touch.

Created by Tiffany's Baking Company, just outside of Asheville, North Carolina

Thank you to all of the talented designers who have been so gracious and generous to accommodate this post!

Bejeweled

2010-08-21T22:11:00.000-04:00

Over the past few weeks, I have been working on a new collection of ring bearer pillows. This new series will consist of mainly ivory and white silk pillows with ivory satin sashes. The pillows will be embellished with organza poppies in varying jewel tones. I have hand-crafted each flower from delicate organza petals. Sparkling rhinestone crystal brooches or clusters of hand-sewn beads center each flower. Below is a preview of the first two additions to the collection.

"Opal"

More information about this pillow.

"Tourmaline"

Further description of this pillow.

Immediately following in this new collection will be amethyst, indicolite, black diamond, platinum, pearl and andalusite. I am looking forward to adding many more colors including emerald, sapphire, ruby and citrine.

One last poppy ring pillow from my limited edition collection. I just love the contrast of black and white!

Poppy Noir

Subtle Change

2010-08-12T22:34:00.000-04:00

When thinking of weddings today, the first color that comes to mind is IVORY. The days of stark white weddings seem to be over, while the warmer off-white shade of ivory has become the number one choice for brides. It is a subtle yet evident change.

Ivory blends seamlessly with so many colors, so it is just as versatile as white. Plus, this shade has an added richness and depth. While I love to add color to a weddings I have to note that these ivory pieces are timeless, elegant and surely hold their own without the introduction of color.

Bellissima Bouquet and Boutonniere - Includes tulips, roses, lilacs, mini carnations and ivy.

Surround - Glass pearl and sterling silver necklace

Surround - Glass pearl and sterling silver bracelet

Divine Intervention

2010-08-07T23:46:00.000-04:00

This month I will be adding two new collections of ring bearer pillows to my shop, Avenue C. One of these will consist of limited edition pillows.

Here is the first addition to the collection. The fabric is designed by Candace Olson, host of HGTV's Divine Design. Respectfully, I have named this pillow "Divine" and I have to say the fabric is just that!

Here are a few more pillows that made the cut.

I was lucky enough to come across some lovely vintage inspired fabrics as well - all of which will be making an appearance in this collection. I will be working on many more designs over the next few weeks so stay tuned.

Turquoise Dreams

2010-08-03T09:45:00.000-04:00

I find turquoise to be one of the most inspiring colors! It is bright and vivid, yet cool and soothing at the same time. Here are just a few of my favorite turquoise creations.

This triple strand beauty is enriched with the rejuvenating color of brilliant blue turquoise.

Polished sterling silver accents add shine and reflect the vibrant turquoise color of the beads used to create these sweet earrings.

Bright blue magnesite beads are matched with dainty freshwater pearls to create this pair of vintage style earrings.

The intricate damask print of this pillow case combines a lovely shade of turquoise blue over an ivory background.