31 March 2009
{from osvchic’s photostream}
I love me some dress up action. When I actually have a legitimate reason to get fancy, I’m over the moon – which is why I’m so excited to be attending a black tie ball at the Rosecliff Mansion in Newport, RI, this May.
Because I delight so much in the process, I’m going to use the run-up to the event to share with you a few of my favorite products and sources, some of which will hopefully be of use to those planning a wedding, those planning to attend a wedding, or those who also have a ball to attend (lucky ducks!).
For today’s post, I thought I’d share a few photos of the mansion itself, for those who are not familiar with it.
{from globaltraveler2007’s photostream}
Rosecliff, modeled after the Grand Trianon at Versailles, was completed in 1902.
{from tinklestoe’s photostream}
The original owner entertained in lavish style, including a fairy tale dinner and a party featuring Harry Houdini.
{from Paul-W’s photostream}
The movie version of The Great Gatsby was filmed inside the mansion and on its grounds.
{from justmecpb’s photostream}
Next week, I’ll share my search for a sophisticated, classic, and black-tie appropriate gown (on a budget!).
{Hint: it’s harder than it sounds!}
17 March 2009
{Click image to enlarge!}
Because I introduced Peach & Pearl’s first giveaway yesterday (Go enter! Click here now!), I decided to save Monday’s inspiration board for today, which is appropriate since it’s in honor of St. Patrick’s Day! I fell in love with the emerald-kelly-almost blue green of the rustic old mailbox in the top photo, and decided to build a board around it. Subtle nods to Ireland – a clover charm necklace, a fiddler for the cocktail hour, Guinness at the reception – as well as a horseshoe-themed invitation set make for a fun but not cheesy, elegant but modern wedding. And who wouldn’t want a little extra luck to start a marriage off on the right foot?
The Details
First row, left to right:
Mailbox photo by Elizabeth Messina via Oh How Charming!; necklace by Ornamental Things via Style Me Pretty; groomsmen photo by Our Labor of Love
Second row:
Vintage hanky wrapped bouquet by Martha Stewart Weddings; portrait of bride by Todd Pellowe via Southern Weddings; blue Ball jars by Martha Stewart Weddings
Third row:
Topiary ring bearer pillow by Martha Stewart Weddings; invitation photo by Mary Claire via Style Me Pretty
Fourth row:
Escort card board photo by Jose Villa via Once Wed; boutonniere photo by Stella Alesi on SMP; tablescape by Fete NY
Like what you see? Let me make you a custom inspiration board! See the details here and purchase here!
5 March 2009
{c/o Country Living}
A friend is planning a May bridal shower based on this inspiration board {so excited to see someone actually bringing the inspiration into reality!}. She’s planning to make the garlands in the top left photo, so last night we plotted her construction plan of attack. I thought others might benefit, so here are the resources I shared.
{c/o Country Living}
The original inspiration came from Country Living, and they do provide instruction on their website, though minimal.
“To make flags, triangles of coordinating cotton fabric are cut with pinking shears. Muslin triangles are printed with bird motifs and stitched to every fifth flag. To hang, the flags are stitched to a colorful length of seam binding.”
The Purl Bee {love the Purl Bee!} has a much more detailed guide, including templates and a step-by-step photo tutorial. Check it out here {and stay to browse the rest of their absolutely lovely projects}. Their book is on my wish list!
27 February 2009
Tomorrow is my birthday! I’m going out for Indian and cheesecake with friends {yummmm, even though those don’t necessarily go together}. I would also be very happy if someone made me that cake with long, skinny, aqua blue taper candles…
Have a lovely weekend, all! See you back here on Monday for a special inspiration board and an introduction to my newest venture.
Until then…
{Image c/o Karl Juengel via Oh Happy Day}