Vintage Romance - Ivory, Mushroom, Indigo and Teal

Real V Silk Flowers

The silk flower is growing in popularity among young couples and families for many different reasons. Silk flowers are non-allergenic, will never wilt and can be maintained as keepsakes for years. 

1. Cost
Lots of people notice a considerable price range from real flowers to silk flowers. Artificial flowers can usually be found at any craft store and sometimes even your local dollar store. Most flowers range from $1.00 to $6.00 a stem. Keep in mind that some silk flowers can get pricey, but they are usually large, high-quality silk roses. There is a wide range in colors and types of flowers in silk. Some people argue that faux flowers have no scent, thereby losing some of the mood that they want to create at a ceremony. Use of perfumes or artificial scents can help minimize this short fall in compare to cut flowers. With a huge difference in price range, most believe that this difference is not worth the extra cost and time.

2. Durability
Silk flowers will not break or wilt when being handled or manipulated into an arrangement or bouquet. This could become a problem with fresh flowers, as they will wilt and discolor over a relatively short period of time. Artificial flowers can be made ahead of time which allows room to fix mistakes or the odd broken stem. This is also great when large volumes and long timelines for preparation are an issue. Silk flowers have a great shelf life. When your event is over, you can store your silk flowers as a keepsake and rekindle your memories of a good time and a job well done. Silk flowers do have an amazing advantage in this area.

3. Create same feeling/mood
Some bride's-to-be or party planners fret about silk flowers looking fake. Some of this depends on the type of flower you chose. Today, silk flowers have looked more realistic than they ever have. Most flowers are easy to replicate and will provide you with a natural looking flower arrangement or bouquet.

4. Allergies
Everyone knows that allergies can be a pain. That's why silk flowers are ideal for people with allergies. People with these symptoms can have silk flowers in their home, while still enjoying the wonders of nature. No need to worry about that stuffy nose and runny makeup with silk flowers. Silk flowers are great for any occasion - weddings, birthdays, funerals and home and office decor. Faux flowers are very easy to take care of, inexpensive and create the same positive feeling that fresh, cut flowers would. For on-the-go decorators, silk flowers are perfect for not demanding attention like real flowers. With all these advantages, silk flowers are defiantly an option in any special occasion or event in your life.

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DIY Colored Crinoline

HOW TO DYE A CRINOLINE IN A WASHING MACHINE

Items Needed:

• Fabric Dye
• Large glass container
• Rubber Gloves (optional)
• Crinoline
• Top-loading Washing Machine

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Start the washing machine and allow it to fill with the hottest water possible. Choose the most extended wash cycle, and a load size that allows the crinoline to easily move within the machine.
2. Once full, dip the crinoline into the water, so the entire garment is soaked. Then remove and set aside. Make sure the fabric is uncrumpled and completely unfolded.
3. Turn the crinoline inside-out, so that the netting is facing outward.
4. Pre-mix the fabric dye in the glass container. Then add to the washing machine.
5. Wearing rubber gloves, add the crinoline to the dye bath. Allow it to agitate for at least 30 minutes. Reset the cycle for another 30 minutes of agitation if a darker color is preferred.
6. After the agitation cycle, let the crinoline finish out the rinse cycle in the washing machine.
7. Hang to dry.
8. If a darker color is desired, repeat the dyeing process.
9. Clean the washing machine by running a large, hot water cycle and adding detergent and one cup of bleach.

Once the crinoline has been dyed to the color of choice, it should be washed on its own with a mild detergent to help remove any lingering dye residue. Once the item is dry, the crinoline is ready to show off on the wedding day.

DIY not for you? Check out these amazing Petticoats !

Colored Crinoline

I can't tell you how much I love the hints of color you get from a colored petticoat/ crinoline. I love the idea of seeing flashes of color as the bride dances the night away. It is funny how just that little touch of color peeking out from beneath your dress can create such a statement, not to mention some fabulous photos!

Pretty in Pink

Weekly Inspiration 6/25-7-1

Top 5 Wedding Gowns Below $500

We all know that weddings can be terribly expensive. There are plenty of shows on TV that proudly show what you can purchase for $5000 but for the bride on the budget that may be out of reach.  


Below are some of my favorite wedding dresses for $500 or less that will keep you looking amazing at the altar but not break your budget.

Beaded ruffle detail at the waist and skirt hem adds a flirty touch.Strapless, ruched bodice creates a slimming effect.

Fun and fashion-forward organza ball gown, perfect for any bride on her special day! 

$299

Appliquéd satin stripes travel the length of an A-line gown, providing smooth contrast to the beautifully textured metallic-knit lace. Rows of tonal beads travel across the sheer mesh yoke, which leads into a V at the back.
$274

A flowing one-shoulder gown in silk georgette, highlighted with a lush petal corsage at the shoulder. Sweetheart neckline. Shirred at bust with crossover detail. Empire waist with ruching at waist seam. Hidden side zip with hook-and-eye closure. $450

Sophisticated glamour, carried through in a sleek, shoulder-baring gown. We used dreamy midweight silk tricotine and designed a dramatic halter silhouette, offset by a deep V down the back and a straight skirt that elegantly floats to the floor with a slight train. Back zip with button closure.
 $495

Glamorous, streamlined bridal gown in a column of lustrous ivory satin, embellished with a partial bow, flowing sash and straight, floor-skimming skirt with high slit.
$348

DIY Multi Strand Pearl Necklace

I love the look of this chunky pearl and crystal necklace , who knew a little thread, ribbon, vintage crystal necklaces and faux pearls would create such a dramatic and sophisticated accessory.

It's perfect to wear even after the wedding with jeans and a t-shirt.

Gather A variety of vintage necklaces, chains and/or jewelry wire, needle nose pliers.

Choose one large necklace to work as a base, then start layering the necklaces open the chains with the needle nose pliers to attach the necklaces together. Make sure to weave the pearls through the crystal and chain necklaces for that thrown together bohemian look. 

Grape and Lemon

DIY Spray Rose Bouquet

If you've always dreamt of carrying a bouquet of old fashioned garden roses down the aisle, but your budget doesn't quite match up to the dream? Try substituting spray roses, theses are inexpensive, easy to find all year long and beautiful! Spray roses consist of 3-5 smaller blossoms on each stem, and have a more casual feel then normal florists' roses. They are readily available at markets and florists all year.


First, pick off the brown petals from the blossoms. Clip 1-2 off each stem to leave the prettiest blossoms and the stems that are around the same level on the stem. (Be sure to save the clipped off roses to use for boutonnieres and corsages.)


Remove most of the leaves from the stems leaving just a few with their leaves.Make sure none of the leaves are too low on the stem or it will interfere with the "handle" of your bouquet. Be sure to choose leaves that are hydrated and feel firm.


Start with your most beautiful bloom to use for the center. Then gather a few stems in one hand at a 45 degree angle. Each time you add a stem, turn your bouquet.Don't be afraid to place some blossoms higher than others. This gives your bouquet depth and interest.Be sure to alternate the stems with the leaves and without to give it a more organic feel.


When you reached your desired size wrap with florist tape  and tie up with a ribbon.


This bouquet creates a bouquet that looks very natural and best of all your guests will never guess that your flowers came from the local grocery!

Planner V. Designer what is the difference?

Most clients who aren’t sure about the difference between what planners do and what designers do.These two services have become so interchangeable that most of the time, it’s difficult to tell them apart.Not to mention the local banquet managers from hotels and venues who do not hesitate to tell clients they don’t need a planner.

1. Should a planner suggest what kind of flowers to use at an event? No no no no no. Even if this is their event, that is not their job. It’s the designer or florist’s job.

2. Should a planner bring the clients to more than one floral designer and let the client decide who they prefer best? This is tricky,most of the time only one is needed. If a planner understands the clients design needs they should be able to suggest one designer/florist for them.

3. Should a designer have direct contact with a client without their planner’s knowledge? I try never to do this. This could potentially create confusion with the project, not to mention undermining the planner’s authority. I am always sure to copy the planner in all emails if the bride emails me directly.

4. Is a florist responsible for creating floor plans? No. This should be the responsibility of a planner.

5. If there is a planner and a designer/florist involved, should you bill the clients directly? This depends on the agreement you made with the planner. Personally, I prefer billing directly however with some event venues it is in their contract to pay all vendors directly.

6. If a planner gets a designer a job, or a designer gets a planner a job, should they expect a commission? I do not accept commission. I want to be used based on my design skills not how much I pay you on the side.

7. Can banquet managers in hotels and venues plan an event? No they are great the day of but design is not their roll in the wedding. 

8. Should a florist or designer go to a food tasting? Never this is for a , it’s up to the the planner to manage all food and beverages.

9. Is it essential for the florist or designer to remain at the event all night after finishing their installation? Only if it’s requested by the planner or client. And also if they are concerned that something might fall. (At times I cannot sleep while the event is happening because of this concern.)

10. Last but not least, is it better to have one person doing both planning and designing?Doing both planning and designing takes a lot of effort and experience. You better know what you are doing, otherwise forget it.

Pink Green and Gold

Splurge or Save : Wedding Accessories

Who hasn't been tempted by the expensive yet amazing pair of earrings? The $700 shoes that promises legs like Heidi Klum? Or the must have handbag that costs more than your rent? 

Sometimes these indulgences turn out to be worth every dime,but a lot of times, much of the cost is the marketing, the packaging and the brand name attached. Most expensive doesn't always mean better.

So what's worth the money on your wedding day when looking your best is your #1 goal? 

Shoes:

 

The shoes on the left are by Valentino Embellished with a beautiful bouquet of leather and tulle flowers, Valentino's ivory mesh sandals are a romantic bridal choice and retail for $1250. The shoes on the right are stunning sandals with unforgettable t-strap detailing. The pieced fabric that comes across the foot gives this shoe a flow that you won't find in any other wedding shoe and retail for $99.

Bags:

 

The clutch on the left is embellished with sheer crepe floral appliques, Valentino's crystal-embellished white satin clutch is an elegant accessory for $2495. The clutch on the right features all over ribbon detail silver metallic trim and rhinestone closure for $34.

Beautiful Details - Wild Flower Ice Cubes

Wild flower ice cubes would make a great personal detail for your wedding day! It would be perfect for a spring or summer wedding, especially if your wedding theme is garden related. They are extremely easy and affordable to make, and can be customized more specifically to your wedding theme with your choice of flowers and even food coloring.

Flowers can be found in your own garden, your local farmer’s market or even your grocery store. Just make sure the flowers haven’t been treated with any chemicals or pesticides, and they are safe to ingest - an edible flower chart can be found here. Pansies, violas, wallflowers, and miniature roses work nicely. You can also use just petals from larger flowers such as rose petals, just be sure the flowers are non-toxic!

1. Fill an ice cube tray half full of water. Place the tray in the freezer until the water freezes.

2. Remove the tray from the freezer and place one flower in each of the individual ice cube cups. Top off with enough water to cover the blossoms.

3. Return the flower-filled ice cube trays to the freezer until the cubes are frozen.

4. Remove the cubes from the trays and either store in the freezer or use in beverages.

European Adventure

Wedding Paper Divas Special Offer!

I am excited to offer all of my subscribers 25% off  Rehearsal Dinner and Engagement Party invitations when you use the coupon code DOD0616 until 8am PST! There are amazing invitations and a deal too good to pass up!


Some of my favorites:

Terrarium Centerpieces

You can make yourself one of these beautiful terrariums in less than an hour and for around $20!  A terrarium is not only beautiful enough to give as a thank you gift  but is also great for centerpieces and reception decor.

Here is a list of things you need to get started:
-A clear glass container
-Gravel, stones, small rocks
-Activated charcoal.
-Plants
-Sterile potting mix

Chose your glass container. Closed top containers are good for ferns and moss plants.

Next, add stones or gravel to the bottom of the terrarium.  This is the drainage material, it will create a little reservoir for excess water and keep it away from the roots of your plants.

Spoon 1/4 to 1/2 inch of activated charcoal over the top of the stones.  This will help with any odors in the bowl and also helps with drainage.

Now add your soil.  Be sure to add enough for the roots of the new plants to live in as well as leaving enough space above for the plant to show itself off.

And add the plant material! 
.

Once everything is planted, mist your plants with a spray bottle.  This will clean off any dirt and settle it in with a fresh drink.  DON’T OVER WATER!  Just a little moisture inside a closed lid terrarium is all you need.  An open top terrarium will need more watering attention but still, the plant material is pretty desert oriented so water only once or twice a month.


Adding little decorative elements are a great way to enhance your plants!  Sea shells, sculptures, marbles… anything!  

DIY Wedding Programs

Materials for DIY Wedding Programs:
- A2 sized folded cards (or card stock cut to size and folded)
- Golf pencils , pre-drilled with holes wide enough for ribbon to pass through
- Popsicle sticks, also pre-drilled
- Scissors
- Needle with a large eye
- Corner Rounder Punch
- Thin ribbon
- Double Sided Tape

Designing your programs on Microsoft Word. On the front side put the basics – names, ceremony details, and any graphics to match your wedding theme ( http://graphicsfairy.blogspot.com/ is a great place to find amazing vintage graphics I have posted some of my favorites below). On the back, put something for the guests while they waited for the ceremony to start::

• I spy 
• Astrology 
• Mad Libs

Once you’ve designed your programs (making sure to fit the card dimensions), print the front and back onto the outside of the cards. 

Then put double stick tape on both sides of a popsicle stick, covering about half of the stick. Center on the card and press in place.

To start assembling, open up a card and put double stick tape on three sides.

Close the card, pressing to seal the edges.

Using the corner rounder punch, carefully round all four corners.

Cut a piece of ribbon that, when halved, is long enough to reach from the end of the popsicle stick to the end of the pencil, while still allowing enough slack to write on the program.

Thread the halved ribbon through the hole in the popsicle stick.

Thread the two cut ends of the ribbon of the ribbon through a golf pencil.

Knot the ends to secure, then trim.

Wedding graphics ideas: