Sneak Peek: Ashley and Mark

Shameless plug: the amazing La Petite Coquin featured my bridal shoot on her site today! Check it out!

Happy Wedding Wednesday friends! I have so many amazing weddings to share with you, I just can’t contain my excitement. What I love, even more, is that each one is SO different from the next. Every single wedding reflects the personality and tastes of each couple perfectly. It’s so refreshing. With that, I bring you a few teaser images of a FABULOUS backyard wedding in North Carolina. What makes this diy wedding even better is that the home has a pool! I love, LOVE when brides decorate the pool to match their wedding decor with lily pods, floating candles, etc. I love. Plus, they  have one of the cutest how I met stories, but I’ll save that for the feature

Thank you Whitmeyer Photography for the photos! (All photographs submitted via Two Bright Lights).

and my favorite…

Stay tuned for the rest of this September backyard wedding Have a great Wednesday!

Tuesday Shoesday: Fancy DiY Wedding Shoes

Wow. What a weekend. I’m so exhausted I’m surprised I can actually type today. I had such an INCREDIBLE time in New Mexico at Mary’s wedding. Albuquerque is such a cute little city! I love the architecture (most of the buildings in the Old Town area were adobe), the food was incredible and the weather was perfect. I was thinking it would be like 1,000 degrees but it was pleasantly around the 80′s! (And the 40′s when we were on top of the mountain!) I haven’t edited any of my photos yet but wanted to share one I stole from a friend of hers (touche, friend, for posting pictures already!)

Although only one of us is looking at the camera, you can get an idea of HOW BEAUTIFUL Mary was. She was a perfect bride. Congrats again on your gorgeous day, Mary and Phil!

Now, let’s talk shoes. I’ve talked forever about how much I loved my shoes. Not only where they EXACTLY what I was looking for, they were just a smidgen over $50 dollars. I wanted those gorgeous blue satin Manolos from SATC but I just could not justify spending $900 on shoes. I wish I did, but I’m pretty sure that would have further contributed to our blown out budget. If you are like me and lust after perfect shoes but can’t quite afford them, I have a secret. You can do them yourself!

Take these feathered Badgley Mishka pumps. Although they aren’t extreme budget busters (around $200) they are a bit steep.

[via Scobey Photography]

These are amazing shoes, but don’t think you can’t have shoes this gorgeous just because you can’t spend that much. Why not make your own wedding shoes with a pair you already own and a shoe clip? Of if you’d prefer to emulate that exact look, I’ve found gold pumps AND a shoe clip for under $70.

Michael Antonio Kashmir pump, $39.95

Jessie handmade shoe clip, $30

Wala! Perfect shoes that won’t blow your budget!

Marvelous Monday: DiY Rustic Fall Centerpiece

Okay, so before you slap me for posting about fall already (I mean, in  my defense, it IS back to school time) I need to show you why I’m already patiently waiting for the first leaf to drop. I was greeted by THIS when I went to DSW to shop for some fun wedges for a September wedding I’m attending.

Hello, lovelies. That tall brown riding boot is calling my name. I’m now beyond ready for the change of seasons. I’m stoked for boots (esp. those brown ones), sweaters, rum & apple cider, leaves, crisp air, pumpkins and Halloween. I’m stoked for pumpkin pie, Thanksgiving turkey, roasted pumpkin seeds and sharp trench jackets. But above all, I’m even more excited to see this year’s gorgeous fall weddings (and brides!) As I mentioned last year, a fall wedding was my destiny. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely would not change a thing about my late March nuptials, but I still can’t get the vision of me walking down the aisle amongst piles and piles of crisp yellow and red leaves out of my mind. Let’s all just envision it for a moment, mkay?

Now that your mind is situated happily among pumpkins & fallen leaves, I’m going to show you the CUTEST diy centerpiece I found on Once Wed.

Isn’t it perfect for an Autumn reception? I also love the rustic vibe you get from the twine & the tree ring! Plus, if you head over to their page, you’ll see just how easy the whole thing is to put together! This would also be fabulous for your Thanksgiving table scape or any fall dinner party!

In other news, the TWIPS blog launches today at 1pm PST! So please make sure to check that out! A LOT of blood, sweat and tears went into it and it’ll showcase all the incredible talent that is in our little community!

Friday’s Fab Finds: DIY Necklaces

Happy Friday! Or should I say, Harry Potter Day? How many of you were up at midnight to see the last Harry Potter movie? I’m going tonight with my husband and I’m really excited, although a bit sad. I grew up with Harry Potter. I read all the books, I saw all the movies. I kind of feel like I grew up with the characters. Does that make me a total nerd? Yes? Okay, let’s move on to something that will redeem myself, DIY necklaces!

I know, here I go again with the DIY stuff. Don’t worry, I don’t plan on attempting these. (The chandelier is still something I plan on tackling, don’t worry). While I was perusing the web for DIY projects (for an upcoming wedding) I stumbled across these incredible DIY statement necklaces and knew I had to post about them. Making a statement necklace, for your bridesmaids or for you, is not a small feat. However, they are very do-able (from my standards, that says something) and very budget friendly, all you need to do is hit up your local crafts store! Plus, wouldn’t this make a really sweet gift for your girls?

DIY Ribbon Necklace

• This is one of my favorite tutorials because it’s easy and the end product is absolutely stunning. It looks like something you’d find at JCREW! This statement necklace would be gorgeous paired with a navy bridesmaid dress, don’t you think? For the complete project, check out Ink & Button’s post on Ruffled!

Pearl & Ruffle Necklace

• I absolutely love this one because it looks EXACTLY like a necklace I bought from Anne Taylor. I love the vintage flair and the elegant ribbon tie. This would be a gorgeous necklace to wear as the bride! (And imagine the faces of your guests when you said you did it yourself!) For the tutorial, check out Refinery 29!

Rosette & Pearl Necklace

• I love, love, LOVE long necklaces, especially when they are paired with rosettes. I mean, pearls and rosettes are the way to my heart, remember? This would be stunning paired with a vintage & lace strapless gown & a rosette headpiece. I think I’ll wear it to my vow renewal Check out Mrs. Priss for the whole step-by-step!

After looking at how easy these are, I may have to try one on my own. Or, who am I kidding, just buy one from the amazing talented women mentioned above.

Marvelous Monday: The Doughnut

Happy Monday! If you are one of the many people who LOATHE Monday’s, I have something that should make them a bit more bearable. Or just give you an insatiable craving for a doughnut.

[Via]

Doughnuts are nothing new, they’ve been around since the late 1800′s. Although their exact origin is still being disputed, these sweet fried dough cakes have become a staple in our culture as the ultimate breakfast food and indulgence. They come in a vast variety of flavors, from glazed to bacon maple. But I’m not here to sell you on the greatness of doughnuts, because there’s a pretty big chance you already know how good they are I’m just here to talk about their place at your wedding’s sweets bar.

Marvelous Monday: DIY Rose Cake

Happy Monday!

I know, those words don’t usually come out of my mouth. After a crazy turn of events though, I can’t help but smile. Maybe this week I’ll divulge why I’m so happy? Because it’s Monday and I know not all of you are sharing my same enthusiasm, I’m going to show you something that I know will make you smile; cake.  And not just any ol’ cake, the most beautiful piece of confectionary heaven you will ever lay your eyes on. Don’t believe me? Take a look.

Imagine the look on your guest’s faces when they get a plate of something this gorgeous. Now, imagine their look after you tell them that YOU made it. I know, I’m blowing your mind right now. Let me take a step back. The amazing baker who created this incredible cake, I am Baker, not only shared this cake on her blog, but also shared a TUTORIAL so that you can make your own. This cake has been all over the blogosphere since it’s debut in January, but I just knew I had to share in case you haven’t seen it.

Marvelous Monday: DIY Chandelier

I’m not crafty, but ya’ll know that. I think I’ve hammered that point pretty hard. My lack of coordination, patience and inability to follow directions make these projects nearly unbearable, which stinks because I want to be crafty. I want to create one of a kind knick-knacks for our home decor project instead of spend 20+ dollars for the same thing on Etsy. Don’t get me wrong, I love Etsy, but some of the stuff on there I can easily do myself, just need a bit of elbow grease and patience.

We don’t have too much left to do, decor wise,  to really bring my dream to life, but my home is lacking in few key areas; dining room lighting, living room wall space and bedroom furniture. My main focus right now is the dining room lighting. We currently have a very low hanging plastic light and it’s hideous.  So naturally, I start thinking chandeliers and did a bit of Pinterest searching for inspiration ideas.

This search didn’t really help much because the gorgeous chandeliers above cost at least a thousand dollars. Now, if I was rich enough to buy them, I would (and would probably have a stylist and interior decorator too!) But I’m a young twenty-something living in one of the most expensive metro areas in the country. Even if I was raking in the dough, the cost of living here is so high I wouldn’t really see the fruits of my labor. To satisfy my chandelier obsession, I’m going to…gasp…attempt a DIY chandelier. Now, before you automatically put the fire department/poison control on speed dial, let me first tell you that I’m not attempting to try the impossible here, I found a VERY easy project with a limited supply list. Sure, it’s not as elegant as the all crystal stunners above, but it’ll serve the purpose until I win the lottery.

Not only is this a home project, but this is also a great idea for those DIY brides out there who want to add a touch of glitz and glamour to their reception decor.

Entire tutorial and photos via Dollar Store Crafts. 

DIY Chandelier tutorial

What You’ll Need:

• Hanging wire basket
• 6 packages of Mardi Gras-style metallic beads (about 48 necklaces)
• Light gauge wire (floral wire will work)
• Spray paint
• Wire cutters
• Hot glue gun & sticks
• Additional embellishments

For the step by step tutorial, check out the Dollar Store blog!

My Realistic Life: What I’m Loving Wednesday

As you all know, I’m working really hard (that’s what she said) on a band new website. Creating a look from scratch and creating a new BRAND is not easy work. It’s taken me quite a while to really hit the ground running but I’m so incredibly enthused about the look and feel of this gorgeous new site. It’s currently in the beginning stages of production, but I’m hoping it will be ready by fall! Um, it’s going to be SO pretty and I’m really excited.

So with that, I’m going to be blogging more about me, my life and what I’m loving. I mean, after all, that’s why you read this right? To see what’s going on in this little crazy brain of mine? It’ll also make my life so much easier, post and organization wise. I’ll still be posting a few times a day, just all in one snazzy, fabulous location.

Besides loving my new website, there are a few other things I’m absolutely obsessed with today, and they all have to do with outdoor decor. But can you blame me? We just moved and I have my landscape architect pants on. (I wear many different pairs of pants on any given day).

To really get an idea of how I can decorate, you should see what I’m workin’ with.

The trees are my favorite So as you see, we have A LOT of space in which to decorate. I don’t like clutter (you’ve seen the houses with giant flamingos & plastic accessories in the yards) so I want it to be minimal but still impactful. I’m thinking of a lounge area in the shady knoll to the right with a few couches, a table, a make-shift tent and tons of lighting. I’m currently OBSESSED with outdoor chandeliers, string lights and lanterns hanging in trees. Then closer to the house, I’m thinking of tables and chairs, a picnic table and grill for eating. Luckily Pinterest understands the way my head works and has a ton of amazing ideas.

He may  have his man cave, but I’ll have my own outdoor wonderland (Thanks Pier One for the quote!)

All images courtesy of Pinterest. 

Friday’s Fab Finds: DIY Table Numbers

As I’ve said before, I’m very DIY challenged. However, as I tally up on the costs of my wedding, I’m quickly realizing that I’m going to need to up my craftiness in order to save my pennies. Now, this is a daunting task, since the only creative talent I have is writing and I never have more than 2 minutes of free time. However, my dear best friend and bridesmaid, Emily of A Leap Begins and Burning River Bride, offered to assist me in my embarrassing endeavors which make this less terrifying. (Oh, and obviously there will be wine involved). To keep my sanity (and injuries) at bay, I’m planning to only tackle a few small DIY projects, including table numbers. Although I love some of the table numbers I’ve found before, my budget no longer allows for a store-bought goodie. Below are a few projects that look easy enough that even a DIY dummy like me could tackle them. Oh and don’t worry, I’ll be sure to feature a post full of my DIY attempts.

DIY Pinwheels [via Ruffled Blog]

I’ve seen these used before and I think they are SO stunning. They are also really easy and add such a fun, whimsical, vintage vibe to your tables! All you need for these gorgeous and vintage table numbers is 3×6″ strips of wallpaper x 4, Card stock, contrasting construction paper (for the numbers – see directions for other options), hot glue gun and glue, glue stick and scissors.

For the tutorial, check out Ruffled Blog!

Trifold Table Numbers [via Martha Stewart Weddings]

I love these 3-D table numbers. They are easy and gorgeous and you can color coordinate the colors with your own color scheme! All you need is colored card stock, rubber cement and a printer! (or calligrapher!)

Make sure to check out Martha Stewart Weddings for the step by step in making these!

Love Notes [via Once Wed]

I am honestly in love with this idea. It adds such a romantic touch with the love note and is vintage enough for my wedding. I also love that you can pick and chose the love notes you want in them and what the outsides look like! Such a romantic and really creative idea. All you need is 3 1/2 x 5 1/2 inch Moleskin Notebooks (one for each of your tables), decorative paper (one half sheet per notebook), glue, ribbon 1/8 inch wide, 2 inch gold sign markers for stick on numbers, double-sided stick tape, scissors, make your own rubber stamps and bone folder.

For a how-to, head on over to Once Wed. Keep reading, there are more DIY lovelies to enjoy!

Marvelous Monday: The Photo booth

The photo booth is one of my favorite wedding trends as of late. As a kid, my cousin and I would have lemonade stands at our summer cottage. Even though we sold our glasses at merely 25 cents a pop, we still often walked away with 30-50 dollars a piece! At the ripe old age of 7 and 8, that money went to two places,  the island arcade and candy bar. After we’d spend a majority of our money stocking up on liquid candy and Big League Chew, we’d spend our last few dollars on  the arcade photo booth. [The photos in question are still hanging on the fridge at the cottage!] Every time I see those, I laugh [at my hair and outfit mostly, but also at the goofy faces we'd make] and each time I remember how much fun we had.  That is one thing I love about photos, the memories and the joy they bring, even years after the fact.

If you are going for the nostalgic look and feel at your wedding, I highly recommend renting an actual photo booth. Many companies have a few different booths they rent out, ranging from very vintage to very modern. Most offer many different photo options and allow guests to print their photos on the spot. Prices vary greatly, but some booths can cost over 1,000 dollars. If your budget does not allow for an actual booth, ask your photographer to stage one for you! If your photographer will be bringing an assistant, see if the assistant can assemble a “booth” area for 30-60 minutes of the reception, where guests can come and stage their own goofy/cute photos! If you want the look of the booth, design a fun backdrop using frames or mirrors or find a well decorated/fun area of your reception!

Photo booths are fun entertainment for guests of all ages! [Via]

This bride made her own backdrop with frames and wallpaper! This adds a very vintage and DIY vibe to the makeshift booth! [Via]

A makeshift DIY photo booth with different cameras for totally different looks. Leaving the film behind gives the bride and groom an extra gift at the end of the wedding. [Via]