A Timeless Affair - Inspiration for Vintage Weddings

In Transition

2011-04-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

During our hiatus, we're quietly remodeling the blog.

First, our address has changed! A URL that reflects our wedding doesn't mean much to most of our readers. Our new URL is ATimelessAffairEvents.blogspot.com.
This means Second, our RSS feed has also changed!

Until we're back from our honeymoon (end of May), new content will be a little sporadic. Also as I work on organizing and editing hundreds of pages of blog entries into a riveting rendition of Our Story for our parents, as well as for our wedding album, you'll see archived posts begin to populate on the "new" blog. With the exception of corrected typos and poorly credited images, the posts will be identical the original content. The post here on the "old" blog will include a jump there to the "new" blog.

Our editorial calendar will be also changing. Don't fear; your favorites - Tuesday Shoesday and Thursday Purseday - will still be here. Fashion Friday is going to become a monthly rather than semi-weekly series, look for it the first Friday of the month. What Inspires Me and My Favorite Things are going to merge into In the Moment, a round up of what's inspiring me at the moment; it'll be appearing on Mondays because everyone needs some eye candy to start their week off right. We'll also be introducing Friday Food for Thought with illustrations or quotes from my collection of vintage home economics texts and cookbooks.

Ciao Bella!

Eden

What Inspires Me: My Muses

2011-04-06T14:22:00.000-07:00

I'm inspired by my surroundings. Store windows. Product displays.

By what I chose to read (or flip through). Menus. Cookbooks. Print magazines.

Catalogs.

By what I pick up: product packaging, vintage postcards, and more. By what I read or see online, blogs, online-only magazines, websites, advertisements, videos, and more.

Over the past year and a half, I've been snapping photos and clipping pages to serve as inspiration for our wedding album (as well as our gift to our parents). Sunday, cubes and I will be celebrating our 6-month wedding anniversary and the month after going on our honeymoon. In January, I set a goal for myself that before we left for our honeymoon our wedding album and the gifts for our parents would be completed and in our hands; I'm rapidly running out of time. For the next few weeks, I'm going to focus on those projects. While I do so, A Timeless Affair, will go on a brief hiatus. You can bet when we return I'll have lots to share! We'll also have a new URL - more on that later once the hosting transfers are all complete. Thank you all for your support and see you soon!

Credits: Images taken by Eden Hensley Silverstein for A Timeless Affair.

In the Moment: Continuing Our Story

2011-04-04T08:08:00.000-07:00

Today we pause from our recaps. Did you know we're going to be celebrating our six month wedding anniversary this coming Sunday? Time has gone by so quickly. And that's got me thinking about how we want to document our story going forward.

Before we got married, I carefully catalogued and saved Tweets, Emails, and Facebook status changes. Most of our love story was chronicled online.

This past weekend, the medium for recording our story became physical. How? While wandering through a barn, we found this Underwood typewriter.

The typewriter immediately tugged on my heart strings. I pointed it out to cubes and then said let me think about it and we walked on past. I thought about it maybe all of five minutes when we stumbled on a pair of nightstands. When the salesperson asked if there was anything else we were interested in, I responded, there's a typewriter too! Long story short, it now sits on the table in our entry hall.

As cubes was playing with the keys, I quickly slipped a sheet of paper in only to discover there was still some ink on the ribbon. And an idea was born. We'd create an Exquisite Corpse.

Our Exquisite Corpse Begins

We type whatever is on our mind or has caught our fancy. We hope that when guests come over they too add to the Exquisite Corpse. I have no idea how the story will unfold, but it's a neat project and one with a tangible result. I'll be filling the typewriter with various acid-free, handmade, treeless papers to keep the story colorful and long lasting.

How are you chronicling your love story?

Thursday Purseday: In need of an outfit

2011-03-31T07:07:00.000-07:00

How do you plan what you're going to wear for the day? Do you carefully lay out your clothes and accessories the night before?

I wait until I wake up, until I'm in danger of being late to figure out what I'm going to wear. This morning I woke up wanting to sport buttery carmel accessories, specifically these shoes and this purse.

Shoes by Joyce of California, circa 1970s, Purse by John Romain, 1967; More photos on Flickr.

The problem? I'm not sure what to wear them with. I've come up with a totally not work appropriate and very unique style (grey ribbed tank top with greenish Italian torn up jeans) that I might try another time, but so far I'm drawing a blank for work.

What outfit would you pair with these shoes and purse?

What Inspires Me: Shells, Part 2

2011-03-30T14:22:00.000-07:00

I think shells are a delightful accent, especially when they've been collected by the couple or remind them of a first date spent sitting on a nearly deserted beach enjoying a sunset.

The shells in our house are from my travels across the US - California, Texas, Alabama, and Florida. There are other shells in the collection that were purchased from the Shell Shoppe in Morro Bay when we visited my grandparents. As I said earlier, the shells you find in our place are part of my story, not our story. (If you follow my food blog, you'll get a glimpse at my collection next week.)

If shells are part of your story and you'd like to include them in your wedding, here are some things other couples have done.

Credits (from left to right): Styling by Flowers on the Green, spotted on Sparkle & Hay; Martha Stewart Weddings by Sandals Resorts - Seaside Serenade Package, spotted on I "Do It" Yourself; Photographed by Erin and Fredrick of Aregrayline Photography, spotted on Delightfully Engaged.

Credits: Left - Photographed by Henry + Masci Photography, spotted on Glamour and Grace Weddings. Middle Top - Design & Styling Alchemy Fine Events & Invitations (via Lollipop Event & Design), photographed by John Schnack, spotted on Alchemy Fine Events Blog; Bottom - Photographed by Brett Harkness, spotted on Love My Dress. Top Right - Photographed by Jonathan Wherrett, spotted on Polka Dot Bride; Flowers by Wedding Flowers by Nichole, photographed by Geneve Rege, spotted on Ruffled.

Credits (from left to right): Photographed by Brett Harkness, spotted on Love My Dress; Cake by Veronica's Sweetcakes, photographed by Henry + Masci Photography, spotted on Glamour and Grace Weddings; Cake by Casual Gourmet, photographed by Geneve Rege, spotted on Ruffled.

Did you incorporate shells into your wedding? How?

What Inspires Me: Shells

2011-03-30T08:08:00.000-07:00

Pottery Barn's Summer Catalog arrived in the mail yesterday and I'm in love. If you've ever been to our place, you'd notice shells tucked into all sorts of corners. On a shelf in our linen closet. On top of built-in drawers. On a ledge above our shower. (We didn't incorporate shells into our wedding as shells are my thing, not our thing, as I grew up less than a couple of miles from the Pacific Ocean.)

If you're planning a summer beachside wedding, flip through the pages of this season's Pottery Barn catalog. There's some neat ideas that you could use for an escort table display or for your centerpieces.

Pottery Barn's Summer 2011 Catalog

Where do you draw inspiration from?

If you're looking for ideas of how shells have been used in weddings, check back this afternoon for Part 2 of this post.

Tuesday Shoesday: Telling a Shoe Story

2011-03-29T07:07:00.000-07:00

I'm a big fan of letting your girls choose their own shoes. There's just something about variation on a color theme that I like. For our wedding, it was great getting emails with shoe finds from the girls. Not only did I get to shop for my shoes, I was able to vicariously shop for theirs.

Credits: Dove gray shoes were designed by Jess, the bride, inspired by "Randee" from Badgley Mischka. Groom's shoes are by Salvatore Ferragamo. All shoe shots photographed by Rebecca of Docuvitae. Shoe story found on La Petite Coquin.

On the day of our wedding, I hadn't really thought about the shoe shots I wanted. If you're obsessed with shoes, here are some shots you might want to include on your list:

Bride's shoes
Bride's shoes with her maids' shoes
Bride putting on her shoes
Bride's feet
Bride and her attendants' feet
Bride and groom's feet
Groom's shoes
Groom's feet
Groom and his attendants' feet

Any other shoe shots that should be on a bride's list?

For more #TuesdayShoesday goodness, check out these other blogs:

Bellwether Thoughts, Blush Printables, Brancorpa,

Demoiselle, La Petite Coquin, Landlocked Bride,

Life in the Super Burbs, Magnolia Rouge, Marry You Me,

Meant to be Sent, Merci New York, Niche White,

Peach Bride, Postcards & Pretties, A Realistic Wedding,

Santa Barbara Chic, Simply & Forever, and Swatchbook Weddings.

In the Moment: Eating

2011-03-29T06:49:00.000-07:00

When we began our recaps, I asked everyone what they'd like to see and hear. Cat, one of our friends who got married a couple of months before us, requested that we share what went surprisingly right. Today I share a few more things that went surprisingly right:

The food was delicious.
Everyone was able to eat something, no one went away hungry.
We had enough for everyone with voracious appetites to go back for seconds and to try both main entrees.
The bride and groom got to eat - not just a small plate, but seconds as well.

Chef Mike of Cafe du Nord was fantastic to work with. Where we had contacted other caterers and they'd been unwilling to remove dairy (butter) from sauces and sautes, Chef Mike had no problem. He also prepared a Vegan Lasagna, added at the last minute when we got a final count for our Vegan friends. My first "What We Did" post counting down our final week as an engaged couple highlighted our food plans and even now I'm amazed at our wedding dinner. So without further ado, here are the photos of our food. I'm really sorry that Smell-O-Vision hasn't been invented yet because the food not only looked great and tasted phenomenal, it smelled wonderful.

Cross Rib Beef Roast with Cabernet Black Pepper Jus

Roasted Chicken Breast with Lemon Caper Sauce

High Summer Squashes Sauteed with Herbs and Garlic

Gourmet Mixed Green Salad with Roasted Pecans and a Balsamic Vinaigrette

Iris and Cherie share a laugh, photographed by Vanessa Naylon

The Buffet Line, photographed by Jessica Palopoli

From right to left: Nifer and Colin, photographed by Vanessa Naylon

J demonstrates "San Frasocializing," photographed by Vanessa Naylon

Our usher and official Tweeter, Roland, models his gift - a vintage Trav-L-Bar,
personally stocked by Bri, photographed by Vanessa Naylon

Cianna and Nelz wait for their table to be called to dinner, photographed by Vanessa Naylon

When we continue next week, we'll be toasting! (And I'll reveal why we were absent from this recap and why when we return I'm wearing a cocktail dress.) Our story so far:

The girls came over to our place to get ready.
I shared my dress with the girls for a real first look.
We bungled our first look.
Highlighted my dress and how it almost didn't happen.
We enjoyed some down time.
cubes and I took our turn in the spotlight for our portraits.
The bridespeople get herded for photos.
Socks captured!
The groomspeople get herded for photos.
The wedding party struck a pose.
I get veiled.
The best man and Diva of Honor signed our marriage license.
In turn, our witnesses, cubes and I, and our rabbi signed our ketubah.
Family congratulated us while we waited for ceremony time.
Then the chuppah was readied.
The Rabbi and the chuppah proceeded down the aisle.
Our grandmothers, cubes' attendants, and cubes walked down the aisle.
The girls went next, and then it was my turn and I walked down the aisle with my parents.
Once we were both at the chuppah, it was time to get married!
We each stepped on a glass.
We kissed.
We receive our first standing ovation.
We toasted with our wedding party.
Our guests sipped signature drinks and nibbled passed appetizers.
We crashed our own reception.
Our wedding party was introduced.
We returned to a another standing ovation.

Credits: All photographs unless noted otherwise were taken by Jessica Palopoli or Vanessa Naylon. Bride's dress: Vintage I.Magnin, reconstructed by Miss Velvet Cream. Bride's and Girls' makeup by Guille of The Lobby Salon. Bride's and Girls' hair styled by Catherine Walters. Bride's hair color and cut by John Skinner and Louise Frost of CODE Salon, respectively. Groom's hair by Cindy Lopez of Azure Salon. Groom's suit: Vintage Gucci from Sui Generis, reconstructed by Miss Velvet Cream. Girls' dresses: Adrianna Papell from Nordstrom and Macy*s. Girls' necklaces: GemKitty. Boys' ties: Express. Boys' shirts: Proper Cloth. Catering by Cafe du Nord.

Please Accept My Apologies

2011-03-28T14:22:00.000-07:00

Credit: Photography by Jessica Palopoli

Hi all! I'm sorry for the lack of posts. I had a migraine headache that started early Friday morning and continued most of the weekend. Don't worry about missing the recaps, I promise the post scheduled for today - We Eat! will be up tomorrow. I've included a sneak peek in the meantime.

If you're in the Bay Area, I hope you're enjoying the break from rain. I certainly am. It's nice to be in a bright office.

Sincerely,
Eden

Tips: Handmade Thank You Cards

2011-03-24T11:11:00.000-07:00

All of our thank you cards have been mailed - for our wedding, for my shower, and now for my birthday. For each thank you, I used a different card. The thank you notes for the wedding matched our invitations. I purchased stationery from the Walgreen's across from my office for my shower notes. And for my birthday, well, I tried my hand at custom making cards.

When making these cards, I learned a couple of things about handmade, treeless papers. Some are pretty thin, which means adhesives can soak through.

Others are pretty porous and take a lot of glue before you can affix it to something else.

As you can see from the photo, the moonrock paper (off-white cardstock) has a lot of texture. This texture made affixing the other papers a little challenging as the paper wasn't always in contact with the glue.

One thing this experience taught me is I should have taken swatches and tried various adhesives rather than working on the final cards. Luckily I had extra materials and could redo the ones I ruined.

Making your own invitations? Try this to reduce your frustration:

Purchase extra supplies to cover any mistakes.
Purchase supplies for a mock up.
Create swatches of your selected papers and try different adhesives. Note how quickly the glue dries, whether it causes ink to run, etc.
Revise your design.
Create your cards.

Did you make your own invitations? What did you learn along the way?

Thursday Purseday: Refined Straw

2011-03-24T07:07:00.000-07:00

Is it Spring yet? Rain is good for an area with constant drought conditions, but I'm personally tired of the grey skies. My pick for today for sunnier, warmer weather.

The Finds: Floral Embellished Straw Editorial Natalie, Coach, $498; Kinetic Art Top, ModCloth, $39.99; Aviator Short, bebe, $69; Floral Patent-Leather Thong Sandal, Donald J Pliner, Neiman Marcus, $265.

For more lovely #ThursdayPurseday picks, check out these other blogs:

Brancorpa, Demoiselle,

Peach Bride, Pearls for Paper, A Realistic Wedding,

Sparkle & Hay, and The Unreal Bride.

{Green} What Inspires Me: Eco-Friendly Florals

2011-03-23T05:05:00.000-07:00

If you're crafting your own wedding, handmade florals can add a special touch. First I must caution you - it takes a lot of time. We tried a few tutorials and came up with some spectacular mis-shaped wads of paper that looked as if we'd plucked them from the recycling bin. We also came up with some gorgeous pinwheels. The one from our step-by-step DIY walk through got demolished by our cat. They also took a really long time. Needless to say, you only saw one pinwheel at our wedding. We opted for a combination of Real Touch Silk and locally grown, real flowers.

Those weddings that chose to do something different for their florals grab my attention. Maybe it's the effort that goes into dreaming up and bringing that vision to reality that I appreciate. (If you're curious what goes into making these flowers, check out My Favorites posts from the past two weeks which showcased tutorials for fabric and paper flowers.)

The obvious place to start is with the bride's bouquet and the groom's boutonniere.

Credits: Top Row (from left to right) - Paper Bridal Bouquet handmade by Wire & Paper and Ring Shot, photographed by KIM+PHIL Photography, spotted on Weddings Fresh. Fabric Bridal Bouquet, photographed by Candice and Mark of Mark Brooke Photography, spotted on Green Wedding Shoes. Bottom Row (from left to right) - Fabric Boutonniere, photographed by Candice and Mark of Mark Brooke Photography, spotted on Green Wedding Shoes; Paper Boutonniere photographed by KIM+PHIL Photography, spotted on Weddings Fresh; Paper photographed by Pat Furey, spotted on Project Wedding.

Besides on the wedding party, flowers can appear almost anywhere, sprinkled throughout your venue to tie your day together.

Credits: Left Images (top to bottom) - Branches with Paper Flowers and Butterflies, photographed by Emma Case, spotted on Love My Dress; Giant Paper Flowers, photographed by Ali Degraff Photography, spotted on Green Wedding Shoes. Center Images (top to bottom) - Paper flowers made from book pages, spotted on Ruffled, top photo photographed by Feather Love, bottom photo photographed by Jenna of Flutter Glass. Right Images (top to bottom) - Table styled by Lo Bjurulf of Agent Bauer, spotted on Bustled Blog; Paper Flowers, photographed by For You Love Me, spotted on Ruffled.

Other places paper flowers or fabric flowers can appear: around or on the cake. At individual place settings. Or on the ring bearer's pillow.

Credits (from top to bottom, left to right): Photograph of Bride and Groom Cake Topper, photographed by For You Love Me, spotted on Ruffled; Cake flowers, photographed by James Bass, spotted on The Sweetest Occasion; Floral napkin rings, photographed by Caspix Photography, spotted on Ruffled; Ring bearer pillow, photographed by Ben and Maddie Haisch, spotted on Green Wedding Shoes.

One thing you should note. If you're not using treeless, responsibly made materials or out-dated phonebooks or old books, substituting paper for real flowers might not be better for the environment than choosing locally grown, pesticide-free flowers. With the exception of the giant paper flowers, most of the brides and grooms featured used scrap materials.

Caring for Vintage Leather Shoes

2011-03-22T14:22:00.000-07:00

Can you tell which pair of cowboy boots are over 20 years old?

Is it the pair on the left (Pair 1)? Or the right (Pair 2)?

If you've made the investment in quality leather shoes, you're probably going to want to keep them for awhile. The easiest way to do this is to regularly clean them, as well as check for scuffs, cracks in the sole, worn heels, etc.

Check the toe for scuffs.
Inspect the sole at the toe - it can thin depending on how your shoes wear.
Look at the heel taps to see if they need to be replaced.
Test the insole to see if it's coming loose.
Inspect the insole to see if there's wear at the ball of your foot.
Check for wear inside the shoe where your big toe and little toe rub the sides.

If there's no noticeable damage, simply give your shoes a good cleaning; mademan has an easy-to-follow How to Polish Vintage Leather Shoes guide. If your shoes don't pass inspection, it's time to take them to the cobbler. When I lived in Austin, I sent my shoes to a local cobbler at least once every three months depending on how frequently I wore them. I recently just found a cobbler in SF who is able to reliably rejuvenate my shoes.

As you can see from the series of photos below my Amalfi Pumps need some minor repair at both toes and to the insole for one.

Now if you get a little lazy and your shoes fall into disrepair, before you toss them into the trash, visit a cobbler. They may be able to save them. I'd thought that my cowboy boots were destined for the rubbish pile - I'd worn into the stacked wooden heel. (I really wish I'd gotten a before photo - the repair was so amazing you'd never believe how badly I'd treated my boots.)

An example of 14-year old loafers that have had prior repairs made: new heel taps, three-quarters of the sole replaced, new toe taps, reinforced tongue, new insole. The cost of new repairs exceeds the cost of a new or gently used pair of loafers.

Luckily I took my boots to not one but two cobblers before deciding to give up on them. (I'd actually bought a brand new pair of cowboy boots to replace them after hearing from the first cobbler that the boots couldn't be salvaged.) The second cobbler completely replaced the heel. If you look closely, you can see where he added new wood. (I've lightened the photo to show the repair, it's not noticeable when you're wearing the shoes.)

I buy a lot of retro and gently worn shoes and boots. I'm intentionally avoiding the term vintage; some of the footwear is as new as five seasons ago (2005). Most are from the 1980s (I've bought replacements for shoes that I'd purchased new and loved to destruction). A few pairs reliably date back to the 1950s or early 1970s.

Here's a quick checklist of what I check for when I'm buying gently worn shoes.

Can the shoes be worn? Or does the seller recommend collecting or alternative use?
What are the actual measurements of the shoe? Sizes have changed a lot over the past 20 years. How were they taken - inside the shoe or from the sole?
Are the shoes leather or another material?
Where were the shoes made?
How much did the shoes cost new? Are they designer or a department store brand?
Have the shoes been repaired?
If the shoes haven't been repaired, can any visible damage be repaired? Is the cost of the shoes plus repairs worth it? One of a kind - must have at any price. Or are you purchasing to save money.
Is the leather or fabric discolored? If the leather appears etched it could be due to salt and may not be repairable. I made the mistake of wearing soft leather boots with leather soles in Michigan. Each black shoe had a permanent ring about 1/2 an inch from the ground and the leather soles became so damaged water could soak through.

An example of Etienne Aigner loafers in need of some love. Unless almost free, I would pass on these at a thrift store as the repairs will typically run about $20 to $25. With new loafers running about $40 to $60, it's not worth the investment.

Answer: Pair 2 are the boots that I had repaired. Pair 1 are a new pair of Dan Post Kylee boots from Zappos. Both pairs had been worn the same amount of time between the date of purchase/repair and when the photograph was taken. The boots currently destined for the consignment store are the Dan Post boots. First they'll visit the cobbler to see if he can fix the poor workmanship (the unfinished seams shred my ankle and calf when I walk).

Tuesday Shoesday: A New Take on Cowboy Boots

2011-03-22T06:06:00.000-07:00

I'm a sucker for boots so when I saw this shoe shot on Ruffled last week, I knew I had to share it.

Credits: Photographed by AbiQ Photography, spotted on Ruffled

And then I started thinking. About what? About shoe shots, specifically of his shoes - the groom's shoes.

How many times in a recap do you see the groom's shoes? Often times a groom purchases new shoes for the wedding and care has gone into the choice. So today's Tuesday Shoesday post is for the boys. Here are some shoe shots that caught my attention.

Credits (left to right): Photographed by Carolyne Gerszegi Photography, spotted on Brenda's Wedding Blog; Photographed by Polly Alexandre spotted on Once Wed; Shoes by Nike ID, photographed by Morgan Trinker Photography, spotted on The Bride's Cafe.

Are you planning on featuring your groom's shoes on their own? Why or why not?

In the Moment: Walking In to a Standing Ovation

2011-03-21T11:11:00.000-07:00

And then it was our turn to enter the reception. (In case you're curious where my purse went to, as we were about to go in, I realized I was carrying a purse and looked to Brittani. She quietly placed it at our table so that I could walk in hands free.)

Unlike the processional, we were able to stand at the door - open - and watch our wedding party saunter across the floor. Like so many elements of the day this wasn't really planned - other than the wedding party would be announced. It was great to be able to let events unfold. I didn't realize how many little things I'd overlooked. Brittani and her assistant were able to keep things flowing and make the day we dreamed about a reality.

As our names were announced a roar of applause rises up. Photograph by Vanessa Naylon.

cubes and I step out together with our right feet. This was totally not planned.

Photograph by Vanessa Naylon.

We'd end by joining our wedding party on the stage. Again unplanned. For some strange reason the impulse to have us all join hands and take a bow struck me. And that's what we did, we linked hands, raised our hands and bowed. We were a little uneven but the smiles on our faces more than made up for the improvisation.

If you're just joining, here's our story so far:

The girls came over to our place to get ready.
I shared my dress with the girls for a real first look.
We bungled our first look.
Highlighted my dress and how it almost didn't happen.
We enjoyed some down time.
cubes and I took our turn in the spotlight for our portraits.
The bridespeople get herded for photos.
Socks captured!
The groomspeople get herded for photos.
The wedding party struck a pose.
I get veiled.
The best man and Diva of Honor signed our marriage license.
In turn, our witnesses, cubes and I, and our rabbi signed our ketubah.
Family congratulated us while we waited for ceremony time.
Then the chuppah was readied.
The Rabbi and the chuppah proceeded down the aisle.
Our grandmothers, cubes' attendants, and cubes walked down the aisle.
The girls went next, and then it was my turn and I walked down the aisle with my parents.
Once we were both at the chuppah, it was time to get married!
We each stepped on a glass.
We kissed.
We receive our first standing ovation.
We toasted with our wedding party.
Our guests sipped signature drinks and nibbled passed appetizers.
We crashed our own reception.
Our wedding party was introduced.

Credits: All photographs unless noted otherwise were taken by Jessica Palopoli. Bride's dress: Vintage I.Magnin, reconstructed by Miss Velvet Cream. Bride's and Girls' makeup by Guille of The Lobby Salon. Bride's and Girls' hair styled by Catherine Walters. Bride's hair color and cut by John Skinner and Louise Frost of CODE Salon, respectively. Groom's hair by Cindy Lopez of Azure Salon. Groom's suit: Vintage Gucci from Sui Generis, reconstructed by Miss Velvet Cream. Girls' dresses: Adrianna Papell from Nordstrom and Macy*s. Girls' necklaces: GemKitty. Boys' ties: Express. Boys' shirts: Proper Cloth.

In the Moment: Announcing our Wedding Party

2011-03-21T06:06:00.000-07:00

Groomsman Steve Gonzales and Bridesman Brian Herbek lead off.

You might have been wondering what hijinx we were up to in the last recap. Last June our dear friends - and members of our wedding party - Ames and Steve, Bri and Helen were married. Bri suggested and cubes and I immediately agreed that we switch up the couples. I forget exactly how they were announced, but all took it in stride and played to the crowd.

Groomsmaid Helen Herbek and Diva of Honor Ames Abascal dance across the floor as they're announced. Photograph by Vanessa Naylon.

Best man Todd Silverstein and Bridesmaid Monica Fine

Later this morning, cubes and I will walk into Freja Hall to a standing ovation. If you're just joining, here's our story so far:

The girls came over to our place to get ready.
I shared my dress with the girls for a real first look.
We bungled our first look.
Highlighted my dress and how it almost didn't happen.
We enjoyed some down time.
cubes and I took our turn in the spotlight for our portraits.
The bridespeople get herded for photos.
Socks captured!
The groomspeople get herded for photos.
The wedding party struck a pose.
I get veiled.
The best man and Diva of Honor signed our marriage license.
In turn, our witnesses, cubes and I, and our rabbi signed our ketubah.
Family congratulated us while we waited for ceremony time.
Then the chuppah was readied.
The Rabbi and the chuppah proceeded down the aisle.
Our grandmothers, cubes' attendants, and cubes walked down the aisle.
The girls went next, and then it was my turn and I walked down the aisle with my parents.
Once we were both at the chuppah, it was time to get married!
We each stepped on a glass.
We kissed.
We receive our first standing ovation.
We toasted with our wedding party.
Our guests sipped signature drinks and nibbled passed appetizers.
We crashed our own reception.

{Green} My Favorite Things #7: Fabric Flowers

2011-03-19T05:05:00.000-07:00

Project Wedding's DIY Wedding Challenge 2010 Paper Flower Bouquets

Last weekend I shared tutorials for paper flowers. Picking up where I left off, here's a round up of fabric flower tutorials. Before I share the rest of the fabric flower tutorials, indulge me while I share some yarn flowers. (The bouquets above are a mix of paper and yarn flowers.)

Credits: Yarn Flowers designed by Lauren De Bellis, photographed by Kate Mathis for Country Living, spotted on Poppytalk.

These yarn flowers are a flash from the past. My mom, my sister, and I used to sit around the dining room table on rainy days making these to top packages. Kid Craft Central has a tutorial that matches how my mom taught us. One thing my mom did to keep the blooms fully plumped was to add a little spray starch to stiffen the finished flower.

When we were planning our wedding I fell in love with chiffon, tulle, and organdie flowers. There was something so romantic about how soft and ethereal they appeared.

Credits (left to right): Chiffon Peonies by Ruffles and Stuff; Chiffon and Tulle Flowers photographed by Olivia Kanaley, spotted on Project Wedding; Organza Flower Headband by Elizabeth Anne Designs from a tutorial by Reese Dixon.

There's also something timeless about organdie as evidenced by this tutorial from 1922.

Organdie flower tutorial shared on Wearing History. For information about the type of stitches used, Lauren recommends reading Lesson X-A Good Start Deserves a Good Finish from Paris Frocks at Home (1930) at Vintage Sewing.info.

Want something a little more substantial? What about turning t-shirts into flowers? These two tutorials will show you how: Linda of Craftaholics Anonymous makes pom pons and Maize Hutton creates a bouquet for The Bride's Cafe.

Credits: Top Row (left to right) - Jersey Pom Pons by Craftaholics Anonymous, spotted on Something Old, Something New; Flower Roses photographed by Mark Brooke, spotted on Green Wedding Shoes. Bottom Row (left to right) - Handkerchief Rosettes by Ruffles and Stuff; Handkerchief Roses from Eco-Proper, spotted on My DIY Wedding Day.

Some brides have handkerchiefs from their mothers or grandmothers that they use for their Something Old, typically wrapping it around their bouquet. Another thing you can do with handkerchiefs is create flowers. You could even wear the handkerchief flowers in your hair or go flowerless for your groom's boutonnière.

For Japan with Love

2011-03-17T17:55:00.000-07:00

We're joining with others for The Bloggers' Day of Silence, organized by Ever Ours and Utterly Engaged, to raise funds for those in Japan in need of shelter. Please get involved and donate.

Thursday Purseday: Papaya with Saffron

2011-03-17T07:07:00.000-07:00

My passion for yellow - Saffron - in this case continues. Ever since I saw Kate Spade's Spring 2011 advertisements with Bryce Dallas Howard I've been loving the pairing of yellow and pink - in this case Papaya. How cute are these shopping bags by BAGGU?

Reusable Totes by Baggu (Saffron available from Endless or Tags.com)

Such a bright and cheery way to go shopping. I also love that they fold up into a 5"x5" square and can be easily tucked into a purse. With the ability to hold up to 50 pounds, bags tearing and eggs falling to the ground around me will be a thing of the past. I'm not sure if cubes would be willing to carry such vibrantly colored shopping bags for me though.

Maybe I should just satisfy my appetite for color with the bags from Kate Spade that Bryce is sporting? She's wearing the Melody dress, $445, with Essex Small Scout bag, $295, and Essex Scout bag, $395,
all from Kate Spade New York.

For more lovely #ThursdayPurseday picks, check out these other blogs:

Brancorpa, Demoiselle,

Peach Bride, Pearls for Paper, A Realistic Wedding,

Sparkle & Hay, and The Unreal Bride.

Heritage & Craft for Your Something Borrowed

2011-03-17T05:05:00.000-07:00

Until recently, brides in the San Francisco Bay Area had to go it alone when it came to vintage decor and details. Last month that changed when Erin Taylor launched {Heritage & Craft} Vintage Rentals & Details.

I caught up with Erin in person this past weekend at the opening of Blu Bungalow, a new event planning studio in Cow Hollow, where she was giving a workshop. As she talked, you could truly see that she's passionate about crafting unique days for her brides and absolutely loves what she does.

I asked Erin when she discovered her passion. Like me she's always appreciated what the industry calls "vintage." She prefers the term heritage as she grew up oohing and awwing over her grandmother's and great grandmother's stuff. She started collecting her heirlooms years ago when her grandmother and great grandmother would get rid of stuff, taking it for her home.

Erin is constantly expanding her collection. Her recent finds from just a couple of days ago include a black Underwriter typewriter with circular metal keys and a washboard made from rippled glass (this predates the metal washboards you typically see).

While {Heritage & Craft} just opened its doors, Erin through Bustle - An SF Bay Area Event Planning and Design Firm - has already been sharing her collection, stored in boxes in her garage or incorporated into decor throughout her home, with brides and grooms.

When brides come to her, some already have a vision of what they want. Others aren't so sure. Erin makes it easy for both types. First off, she supplies pricing for all of her inventory. Brides can immediately see whether they can afford vintage styling. Most brides are pleasantly surprised, it's usually less expensive than they think. The prices compare favorably to typical event rentals and offer more personality and charm in the bargain.

To get started you can do one of two things. If you've got a clear vision of your day, begin by browsing Erin's inventory of heritage items. Once you've located the items you want, let her know the date of your wedding. Erin will respond with availability and pricing (cost of item is on the website with final delivery/tear down pricing depending on venue location and your needs).

If you're interested in a certain period or looking for a certain piece of furniture, you can choose Heritage & Craft for your styling. Erin can start with a mood board or with an interview, and then work with you to create a sketch of your vision and then suggest appropriate heirlooms. If you're looking for a specific dresser or detail, Erin can help you flesh out your vision. She's constantly roaming the Bay Area with eyes open for new heritage pieces and can source the piece you're dreaming of. The plus? You're not paying the purchase price, you're renting the heirloom and having Heritage & Craft pick it up when your reception is over.

For brides who want to get outside of the box, Erin offers Craft. She works with her father who has a background in architecture and carpentry to bring dreams into reality. The process is simple: share your idea with them and they'll work with you to flesh out the details, returning with a sketch of your vision and a quote. Once you review and approve, Erin's dad begins production. No one in the Bay Area offers the ability to custom build altarpieces, buffet tables, etc. She can help you create a doorway into an outdoor space so that you can make a grand entrance.

Erin takes her inspiration from surprising sources - a store window, runway show, and more. She shares these visions with her brides to create one-of-a-kind moods such as Rustic Prep.

You know the best thing about Heritage & Craft? You're not limited to vintage-inspired custom pieces. Erin and her dad will work with you to craft modern pieces as well. Recently they built a cake table.

After meeting Erin, my husband joked that maybe we should get married every year. I think he was a little surprised when I responded, "We should! I have this idea that for our next ceremony, we'll have an intimate affair on the beach with a candlelit dinner on the dunes."

Luckily for our next ceremony and reception, I won't have to source furniture and details from flea markets, thrift stores, and my friends' houses. I'll be able to turn to Heritage & Craft.

Pampering the Groom: A Custom Shirt

2011-03-16T05:05:00.000-07:00

In the first of our Pampering the Groom series, we took you to a custom suit fitting with Proper Suit. About a week and a half ago the suit and custom shirt arrived; we'll review the suit in a future vendor post. Today we're focused on men's dress shirts with two options as Proper Suit is not yet offering custom shirts without the purchase of a custom suit:

Blank Label offers co-created shirts starting at $45. Shirts are made in Shanghai.
Proper Cloth has made to measure shirts starting at $99. According to the company's LinkedIn profile, the shirts are made in the United States.

Before we get started let's look at the end products. First the shirts by Proper Cloth for our wedding.

Credit: Brian and Steve wearing shirts by Proper Cloth, ties from Express, photographed by Jessica Palopoli

Credit: cubes wearing shirt by Proper Cloth and vest by Miss Velvet Cream; Eden wearing vintage 1950s cocktail dress with twist necklace by GemKitty, photographed by Jessica Palopoli

Next shirts by Blank Label.

Credit: Blank Label shirts photographed by Sara Gray, originally featured on Inspirations & Creations: Elizabeth Anne Designs

It might seem daunting to dream a shirt into existence, but the guys at both Blank Label and Proper Cloth make it easy. Both companies guide you through how to take your groom's measurements.

How to Do Sizing Guide from Blank Label
How to Get Measured Guide and Video from Proper Cloth

Once you've got your measurements you're ready to create your shirt, choosing collar lining and type, cuffs, plackets, pockets, and shoulder finish.

One of the biggest decisions will be the fabric you choose. Danny Wong, Co-Founder and Lead Evangelist at Blank Label, offers this advice:
"When choosing a fabric, you have to consider the season and the occasion. For colder seasons, you'd like a thicker and heaver fabric because you most certainly don't want other people to know you're cold (with hard nipples, hahaha). For warmer seasons, you'd like a lightweight (but not too thin since you don't want people to see through and know your skin color!). For a wedding, a nice luxuriously textured fabric is perfect like a herringbone or a simply a elegant broadcloth."

Tuesday Shoesday: Put a Bow or Three on It

2011-03-15T11:11:00.000-07:00

You know me when it comes to bows. Love them! When I stumbled across these beauties on Pink Lemonade (unable to find the credits), I was in love. After some Googling, I discovered they were designed by Chloé (and have since sold out). How gorgeous would these be on a bride's feet?

Bow Embellished Crystal Suede Shoes, Chloé
(retailed for $1,290 according to Net-A-Porter)

Image courtesy of Avenue7

For more #TuesdayShoesday goodness, check out these other blogs:

Bellwether Thoughts, Blush Printables, Brancorpa,
Demoiselle, La Petite Coquin, Landlocked Bride,
Life in the Super Burbs, Magnolia Rouge, Marry You Me,

Meant to be Sent, Merci New York, Niche White,

Peach Bride, Postcards & Pretties, A Realistic Wedding,

Santa Barbara Chic, Simply & Forever, and Swatchbook Weddings.

Well Hello Yellow

2011-03-15T07:07:00.000-07:00

When looking for purses for my upcoming honeymoon I came across this basket weave handbag with mustard yellow leather accents. And last night at the mall as I walked by the Kate Spade store, the Hello Yellow window display brought it back to mind. I'm not typically a fan of yellow, but these sandals and accessories have me rethinking my stance.

What do you think about yellow? Take it or leave it?

The Finds: Amber Tantivy Thong, Cole Haan, $98, Zappos; 21" necklace, $12, Vintage Chics; Bakelite Bangles, $65, KatcherrFancy Vintage Jewelery; Solid State Travel Clock Radio, c.1960s, Aimor, $19.99, Juniper Home Vintage; 9" long x 6" high x 4" wide, Retro Yellow Mustard Basket Weave Handbag, Amanda Smith, $39, Lilies of the Valley Vintage; 17.5mm Buttons, $3.00, Orit Dotan.

In the Moment: Crashing Our Reception

2011-03-14T07:07:00.000-07:00

With our unplanned downtime earlier in the day, cubes and I found ourselves wanting to go mix with our guests. Our wedding party had joined the guests after our toast.

We gobbled up two helpings of appetizers (Brittani regularly checked in on us, appearing as if by magic when we thought of something) and then headed upstairs. We never made it to the front hall, becoming the choke point between the dinner hall and the cocktail hour. The staff of the Swedish American Hall were incredibly patient and skilled as they transferred food between the upstairs kitchen and the buffet table, never spilling anything. (We were standing right in front the stairs.)

We'd included a seating chart in our programs to ease the flow of traffic between the rooms and make it easy for guests to locate their table and seats. There was only one hiccup. Kevin's table was full. We tried to figure out what could have happened.

Seconds after these pictures were snapped, Brittani was there and the problem was solved. We later learned that an entire table of guests hadn't come to the wedding so people had shuffled seats. The food didn't go to waste as other guests were able to help themselves to seconds and try both entrees.

Our DJ Dale quickly conferred with us as to how we wanted the wedding party to be announced. Of course there were shenanigans a foot. We wouldn't be us without some playfulness. We also updated the Father-Daughter song (I'd found out the night before which song my dad wanted us to dance to. I'll share how in a later post).

After we crashed our cocktail hour, updated the song for the Father-Daughter Dance, and resolved a seating mix up, it was time for our wedding party to be announced. If you're just joining, here's our story so far:

The girls came over to our place to get ready.
I shared my dress with the girls for a real first look.
We bungled our first look.
Highlighted my dress and how it almost didn't happen.
We enjoyed some down time.
cubes and I took our turn in the spotlight for our portraits.
The bridespeople get herded for photos.
Socks captured!
The groomspeople get herded for photos.
The wedding party struck a pose.
I get veiled.
The best man and Diva of Honor signed our marriage license.
In turn, our witnesses, cubes and I, and our rabbi signed our ketubah.
Family congratulated us while we waited for ceremony time.
Then the chuppah was readied.
The Rabbi and the chuppah proceeded down the aisle.
Our grandmothers, cubes' attendants, and cubes walked down the aisle.
The girls went next, and then it was my turn and I walked down the aisle with my parents.
Once we were both at the chuppah, it was time to get married!
We each stepped on a glass.
We kissed.
We receive our first standing ovation.
We toasted with our wedding party.
Our guests sipped signature drinks and nibbled passed appetizers.

Credits: All photographs were taken by Jessica Palopoli.

{Green} My Favorite Things #6: Paper Flowers

2011-03-12T11:11:00.000-08:00

First let me apologize for the sporadic posting this week. I've had lots to sidetrack me - honeymoon planning, class, and Marketo's Rock Your Revenue Roadshow. I promise next week will more than make up for it.

Monday, we'll continue with recaps. Not one, but two! I have a deadline now - our book must be done and in our hands before we leave on our honeymoon.
Wednesday, the Pampering the Groom series covers selecting a custom shirt for your groom and the men in the wedding party.
Thursday, I'll be featuring {Heritage & Craft} Vintage and Custom Rentals. If your wedding dreams involve furniture, sweet details, or props, you aren't going to want to miss this post. I interviewed Erin yesterday; she's amazingly creative and energetic.

Of course there will be eye candy - shoes on Tuesday, purses on Thursday, and movie-inspired fashions on Friday.

It's sunny outside and Spring is on my mind. Therefore, I've got a round up of paper flower tutorials for you (if you like fabric flowers, check back next Saturday).

Credits: Top Row (left to right) - Paper Flowers photographed by For You Love Me, spotted on Ruffled (tutorial for these world's easiest paper flowers from Miss Trail Mix (Weddingbee)); Paper Boutonniere, photographed by Pat Furey, spotted on Project Wedding (tutorial for paper leaves on Just Something I Made). Center Photos - Paper Flowers handmade by Wire & Paper (template for making the flowers and tutorial on 'i do' it yourself), photographed by KIM+PHIL Photography, spotted on Weddings Fresh. Bottom Row (left to right) - Crepe Poppies Daisies and Pearls spotted on The Sweetest Occasion; Origami flowers crafted/photographed by Miss Guinea Pig (Weddingbee) from a tutorial by Folding Trees.

I couldn't find a tutorial that I liked for creating boutonnieres from vintage paper (top right image in the scrapbook above). So, I'm going to cheat and include a fabric flower tutorial.

Credit: Jessica Jones of How About Orange

Jess of How About Orange shows us how to turn fabric scraps into formed flowers with a little bit of Stiffen Stuff, a button, and thread. By changing up fabrics and sizes of flowers you can change a bare wall into a gorgeous waterfall of Spring color. For your paper flowers, substitute Mod Podge for Stiffen Stuff and paper for the fabric scraps.

Other tutorials for paper flowers

Raid your kitchen cabinets for cute cupcake wrappers (or substitute ruffled coffee filters) to create interesting flowers in no time at all.
Add 3D pinwheel flowers to the walls of your hall. Vary sizes for greatest interest.
Double the materials Nice Package requires and you've got colorful paper pom pom spheres that you can hang in doorways, from staircases, or top tables with.

P.S. If it's gorgeous weather where you are today, please don't start crafting now. Go enjoy the day!

Thursday Purseday: Day Dreaming About the Caribbean

2011-03-10T07:07:00.000-08:00

We've set the dates and location for our honeymoon! Now it's onto the day dreaming and the outfitting. Of course I'm looking at (and dreaming of) vintage (or thrift finds whenever possible) for our trip. The first thing to find? A purse. More specifically, one that looks good whether it's lounging on the beach or held smartly in a museum. I've already got a bag for hiking (it's super comfortable, holds the necessities, and has gone camping and to the playa).

Some basic criteria my honeymoon dream bag needs to satisfy:

Environmentally responsible
Neutral colors
Size (large enough to hold a camera, my iPhone, my wallet or coin purse, and some sunscreen)
Shape (has to fit tucked inside my carry on because we're flying; purse I took with me to NY was 10" x 13" x 4" and to Yountville was 8" x 12" x 3.5")
Must close (can't have contents spilling out if I drop it)
Comfort (can't irritate my wrist or my shoulder)
Easy to clean
Ability to keep contents dry
Price (no more than $50 with tax)

First I scanned this season's offerings to get an idea of styles and color palettes.

The Finds (from left to right): Abby by Straw Studios, $45.60, from eBags; Straw Studios B10024, $48, Found Lori's Shoes through Making It Lovely; Wicker Whip Stitch Satchel by Magid, $41.60, from eBags; Mathilda by Helen Kaminski, $595, from eBags.

Too casual. Too cheap looking. Too neutral (as well as way over budget).

Next I scanned the John Romain offerings, not expecting anything to meet my budget requirement. (John Romain is my new vintage crush.) Gorgeous handbags made in America; they're as green as you can get - fair labor laws, produced "locally" and not shipped around the world, and previously loved by someone else.

The Finds (from Top left clockwise): 7.5" diameter by 3.25" deep, John Romain, c.1960s, $88, from Raleigh Vintage; 6.5" x 11" x 4.5", John Romain, c.1960s, $30, from Mommy's Pocketbook (leather noticeably worn; some stitching is loose); 8" x 11" x 4", John Romain, c.1960s-1970s, $35, from Karen3231 (leather noticeably worn on handles and fold); 7.5" x 12" x 6", John Romain, c.1950, $50, from Angels Camp; 7.5" x 11.75" x 5", John Romain, c.1960s, $75, from Vintage Diehls.

You know the advice given to brides? Never try on a dress that's outside your budget, because chances are you'll fall in love with it and end up with heartbreak. I should know better than to look for John Romain bags. Want to know the result? I found two that are tugging on my heart strings. Can you guess which two?

Of course, there are other vintage options. Some have integrated wrapped straw or wooden handles.

The Finds (from far left clockwise): 5.5" x 8" x 4", c.1960s, $22, from Fashion Rerun; 7" x 8.5" x 4", $26, from Selective Memory; 6" x 13" x 4", c.1960s, $16, from Something New Again (unlined, opens fully); 6.5" x 12" Bag, $14, from Another Thyme; 6.5" x 11.5" x 4.5", c.1960s, $38, from Raleigh Vintage.

Others have faux wood, lucite, or metal handles. (Passing on those with metal handles as I fear they might be hot to the touch if I left the purse lying in the sun.)

The Finds (from far left clockwise): 8" x 14" x 5", Dayne Taylor, c.1950s, $15, from Roadside Vintage Hut; 6.5" x 11" x 5", Filcraft Importing, $25, from A Periwinkle June; 8.5" x 10" x 4", Simon, c.1960s, $28, from Vintage Stew (liner appears to be detached on one side); 6.5" x 8" x 4", $49, from Full Circle Studios (also available from Burlap Bikini, $27.99).

To me these work for a museum or a picnic, but seem a little too formal for the beach. Then there are purses with rolled leather handles - again most are either a little too formal or more appropriate for a picnic in the park.

The Finds (from top center clockwise): Dimensions Unknown, $14.23, from Made Ya Look; 6.5" x 11" x 5.5", c.1950s-1960s, $18, from Bags by Suzi; 7.5" x 12" x 4", Du-Val, $35, from The Vintage Ramble; 9.75" x" x 13" x 5", $28, from Marybeth Hale (leather decoration shows some wear; liner has hole); 8" x 11.5" x 4.75", Gary Gail Signature, $25, from Chic Vintage Styles; 6" x 11" x 4.5", Mr. Jonas c.1960s, $43, from Pineapple Mint (leather hinges on the bottom of the bag are worn).

Then there are these bags that work for sight seeing or visiting a museum but again maybe not the beach. (A few options exceed my budget.)

The Finds (top clockwise): 7.5" x 9" x 4", $24, from The Primitive Fence; 8" x 14" x 5", c.1950s, $40, from Studio 1950 (a couple of breaks in the straw); 9" x 12" x 5", Burlington, c.1960s-1970s, $75, from Skinny and Bernie; 9" x 13" x 5", c.1960s, $60, from Vintage Girl NY (leather shows signs of wear); 9" x 13" x 5.25", $35, from Seesong.

There are so many options from which to choose - all work with very different styles.

The Finds (from top center clockwise): 8" x 14" x 3.5", $35, from Whim and a Prayer; 7.5" x 13.5" x 4", c.1950s, $24, from Dirty City Vintage; 7" x 10" x 4", $24, from The GetUp Vintage (leather shows some signs of wear); 8" x 10" x 4", $29.99, from Emma's Vintage; Dimensions unknown, $25, from the exhausted etiquette (some holes in the liner); Dimensions unknown, c.1950s-1960s, $15, from Blase' Vintage (leather shows signs of wear, front leather clasp is scuffed); 6" x 10" x 6", c.1950s-1960s, $19.99, from The Groove; 7" x 12" x 6", c.1970s, $20, from Hardwire88.

I've "narrowed" the purses to the nine that I'm seriously considering.

The Contenders (shown at relative size to each other) Top Row: 1. 7.5" x 9" x 4", $24, from The Primitive Fence;
2. 7.5" x 13.5" x 4", c.1950s, $24, from Dirty City Vintage (leather straps show wear);
3. 7.5" x 12" x 6", John Romain, c.1950, $50, from Angels Camp;
4. 9" x 13" x 5.25", $35, from Seesong;
5. 6.5" x 12" Bag, $14, from Another Thyme.
Bottom Row: 6. 7" x 12" x 6", c.1970s, $20, from Hardwire88
(liner appears to be pulling away from the wicker, needs to be reattached); 7. 6.5" x 11" x 5", Filcraft Importing, $25, from A Periwinkle June;
8. 9.75" x" x 13" x 5", $28, from Marybeth Hale (leather decoration shows some wear; liner has hole); 9. 6.5" x 11" x 5.5", c.1950s-1960s, $18, from Bags by Suzi.

If you were me, which purse would you chose for your Caribbean honeymoon and why?

What Inspires Me: Washi Tape

2011-03-09T06:06:00.000-08:00

Palette made with washi tape from Leslie Shrewring of A Creative Mint's Inspiration Book for decor8

In January I fell in love with washi tape. You'd think it was a creative packaging idea that captured my heart. Nope. It was a page from Leslie's inspiration book that she created for her Color Me Pretty column. Since then I've been looking for projects where I can use washi tape (as well as an excuse to buy some).

Love washi tape too? Looking to use it in your day? The possibilities are endless. Garlands. Cupcake Flags. Signage.

Credits (from left to right, top to bottom): Washi Tape Garland by PaperKlip Design featured on PoppyTalk, pinned by Donna Shin on Pinterest via maedchenmitherz; Cupcake Flags spotted on Creative Odds n' Ends, photographed by Krystin Talbot; Jessica of Hostess with the Mostess and her husband Lincoln.

Favor bags. Invitations.

Credits: Jessica of How About Orange, spotted on Paper Crave; box64studios gift certificate by Kelly Lynette Stephens, spotted on Paper Mojo's blog; Allie of Allie Ruth Design spotted on Oh So Beautiful Paper.

Feeling crafty? Create favor bags (DIY at How About Orange). Cover pencils or pens with tape for your guestbook or for wedding favors (DIY at Margot Madison Creative). Transform neutral candles (DIY at Margot Madison Creative).

Crazy for Stripes

2011-03-08T07:33:00.000-08:00

Today's Tuesday Shoesday post isn't really about shoes. It's about what goes on your feet before they go in your shoes: socks. More specifically, striped socks.

I can never have enough striped socks in my dresser. Or socks that come just below my knee. Why? Boots. I love boots. I wear them almost 90% of the time. Ankle socks in boots don't ever seem to stay on my foot. As I walk the socks start inching their way past my heel and towards my toes. I don't know why. New socks, as well as old socks, do this. And it bugs me. I can't stop, sit down on the sidewalk, remove my boot, and adjust my sock every block or so. Well I could, but I'd get a lot of people looking at me oddly. On second thought, in San Francisco no one would probably even notice, but the prospect of touching my bare feet on well traveled sidewalks just turns my stomach.

Today as I got ready for work I noticed that I was a little short on warm socks. Socks that would fit in my dressy boots - those boots I wear to the office, on a date, or around town. (I have tons of warm socks for my wandering boots - those boots I wear when foraging for mushrooms, working in a warehouse on an art project, and hiking through forests.) So I started searching for new socks. Stripes were on the brain courtesy of Design*Sponge's Best of Stripes post.

As I was searching, guess what I found? Those elusive purple and black striped socks that I'd wanted our boys to wear for the wedding. Even more perfect about these socks? They're unisex. I could have worn them and the boys could have worn them. Can you imagine the shoe shot? Bride flanked by a pair of boys on each side.

If you're looking for striped socks, here are some options. I regularly shop at Sock Dreams and Multikulti for my socks. I just purchased some socks from Fugwee and we purchased the socks for our wedding party from The British Apparel Collection, Ltd.. None of these vendors have paid to be mentioned, I've just been incredibly happy with the socks we've gotten here and wanted to share with you.

The Finds (left to right): Unisex Cotton/Lycra Stripe Socks, $11 ea., Fugawee; Men's Cashmere Stripe Socks by Punto, $45, The British Apparel Collection, Ltd; Men's Uma Regenerated Cotton/Polyester Stripe Crew Socks, $11, Sock Dreams; Women's Ixchel Regenerated Cotton/Polyester Striped Over the Knee Socks, $15, Sock Dreams.

Where do you shop for socks? Any tips for finding purple?

Just Because

2011-03-07T07:30:00.000-08:00

It's Monday and it's a little grey outside this morning, this post is guaranteed to brighten your day.

For those of who believe nothing nice ever happens on the Internet, prepare to be amazed. If you tend to be emotional, grab a box of Kleenex.

Do you know Sarah and Tony and Bean and Bug? No? Ok, first check out Sarah's write up of their love story for a photography contest that Thirty Something Bride hosted. Then go to Sarah's blog, My San Francisco Budget Wedding, to read how blog land righted a wrong.

To read how this Internet miracle came about check out Jen's blog, Smile in Motion. She reached out to strangers she thought would also make a leap of faith. And leap we did. Because at the end of the day, don't you want to believe that fairy tales can come true?

Is that the beginnings of a smile I see? I told you your day would start looking up.

Thursday Purseday: Organizing One's Thoughts

2011-03-03T06:06:00.000-08:00

A place for everything, everything in its place.

- Benjamin Franklin according to Quote Gallery

When we were planning our wedding, my organizer went with me everywhere. My organizer was a journal with lined paper, a few fabric and ribbon swatches, and a handful of 4x6 inspiration cards. Everything fit perfectly in my purse (I had a purse large enough to conceal a Canon 5D with zoom lens).

I saw this bag captured on the streets of New York and immediately thought how great it would be to hold my current journal/notebook, camera, colored pencils, and more.

Credit: HB Nam, StreetFSN, New York Fashion Week, Day 5

I don't know why well-loved, aka "Distressed," bags call to me. I think there's just a casual style that implies being able to pick and go at a moment's notice. (When I was single I had a bag with canvas, paints, and brushes, and a change of clothes stashed in my car. There were many a weekend I just picked a direction and drove until I found a spot that inspired me.)

What are your favorite bags for organizing your gear?

Here are some of the bags that I'm dreaming of.

The Finds: Chocolate Brown Backpack from Trustfund 21, $38; Black Backpack from Trustfund 21, $52.

The Finds: Coach Station Bag from Omnia Wears, $75 (not pictured $42.50 from The Well Seasoned Nest); Rina Rich Satchel from Shop Thrifted, $50; Hunt Club Satchel from Skinny and Bernie, $60.

For more lovely #ThursdayPurseday picks, check out these other blogs:

Brancorpa, Demoiselle,

Peach Bride, Pearls for Paper, A Realistic Wedding,

Sparkle & Hay, and The Unreal Bride.

What Inspires Me: Cameras

2011-03-02T05:05:00.000-08:00

It's no surprise that a photographer would love cameras. It's even less of a surprise that a collector of vintage items would love vintage cameras. So of course I'd eventually feature cameras in my What Inspires Me column.

If you also love cameras, there are many ways you can incorporate them into your wedding. In your table design. As stands for table numbers or design elements on your tables.

Credits (Top Row, left to right): Camera Photo Stand by Decole from Japanese Gift Market, $6 ea. Photographed by Mandy Lynne Photography and Alisia K. Photography spotted on Magnolia Rouge. Bottom Row: Photographed by Kate Harrison spotted on Green Wedding Shoes.

Credits (Top Row, left to right): Photographed by Mandy Lynne Photography and Alisia K. Photography spotted on Magnolia Rouge. Photographed by nBarrett Photography spotted on Postcards & Pretties. Bottom Row, left to right: Photographed by Tyler Branch Photography found via Green Wedding Shoes. Photographed by Taryn and Shelby of Joielala Photographie spotted on Ruffled.

As place cards. As artwork.

Credits (Top Row): Film and Polaroid Artwork by Joana Rosa Braganca spotted on Creature Comforts. Bottom Row (left to right): Paper cameras by Mel Stringer, $4 ea, spotted on Paper Crave. Photographed by Aimee & Troy Grover spotted on the found blog.

As props in your photos.

Credits (Top Row): Photographed by Studio Sixty Photography spotted on Polka Dot Bride. Bottom Row: Photographed by Jenny Sun Photography spotted on I 'Do It' Yourself.

Fashion Friday: High Society (1956)

2011-02-25T07:07:00.000-08:00

Searching for inspiration to complete your 1950s vintage look? Settle down with a style icon for an afternoon.

Last week I wanted to be Audrey Hepburn. This week I'm dreaming of being Grace Kelly. (Hint next it'll be Katherine Hepburn in The Philadelphia Story. High Society is a musical remake of that film.)

Credits: Layered Chiffon Ball Gown with Rhinestones and Pink and White Embroidered Flowers, designed by Helen Rose (Source: Annie Couture's Fashion and Costume Designers of the Twentieth Century Hubpage) and sold in 2007 for $220,000. Grace Kelly and Bing Crosbie, High Society (1956) via Vintage Culture. Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra, High Society, (1956) via Style Matters. Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra, High Society (1956), via Vintage Culture.

Click here to see more of Grace Kelly's costumes as well as other clothing designed by Helen Rose.

Where do you go for inspiration? Who are your favorite mid-century designers?

Thursday Purseday: Pink Kelly Bags

2011-02-24T06:06:00.000-08:00

I love adding a dash of color to my outfits. My favorite purse at the moment is a vintage pink purse I picked up for my trousseau. Here are some Kelly bags that I think would accent a going away outfit nicely.

The Finds: Hermes Kelly 22cm Pink Handbag, $235 (originally $376); Vintage A. Miss America by Smartaire Handbag, $84, from Mod Human Vintage; Andrew Geller Purse, $25, from Retro Impressions.

For more lovely #ThursdayPurseday picks, check out these other blogs:

Brancorpa, Demoiselle,

Peach Bride, Pearls for Paper, A Realistic Wedding,

Sparkle & Hay, Swatchbook Weddings,
and The Unreal Bride.

Finish Your Retro Look with Vintage Details

2011-02-24T05:05:00.000-08:00

When you're planning a vintage affair, the details matter, starting with what you're wearing when the guests first see you and continuing to how you leave your reception.

cubes's reflection in the mirror of my overnight case.

After our wedding, cubes and I looked as if we'd just arrived from the past as we checked into the Hotel Triton. I was wearing a 1950s cocktail dress with vintage-inspired black Mary Jane pumps, holding my bouquet of antique hydrangeas with my box purse dangling from my wrist and clutching a train case in my other gloved hand.

While no one was observing our departure for our mini-moon, I still followed through with the vintage theme. I traded my train case for a set of three pieces: a hat case, an overnight case, and a small suitcase.

For my birthday, I chose to dress vintage. I decided on the 1950s with a gorgeous grey dress with full circle skirt, petticoat, black pumps, pink elbow length gloves, and pink purse.

Of course when cubes and I headed back to Yountville for our dinner at The French Laundry (an unexpected birthday present), I sported vintage accessories - the same pink purse I'd chosen for my birthday and the luggage from our mini-moon.

Purse by JR Florida was purchased from Klassy Klassics. Luggage was purchased from The Vintage Perspective's Post.

Until last week, I hadn't really accessorized with my pink purse. After the numerous compliments, I received it will definitely be making an appearance more often.

What Inspires Me: Stitching

2011-02-23T05:05:00.000-08:00

Straight stitches. Zig zag stitches. It makes no difference. Seeing stitching on paper just thrills me. Mockups for our programs and our wedding favors included stitching.

Now, unless you have a very intimate wedding, lots of free time on your hands, or tons of money to pay someone else to do it, admire from a far. I love stitching because it implies hands touched these. Each item was lovingly crafted.

We opted to skip the stitching. We had 134 guests and were planning on stitching belly bands to 100 programs (skipped) and stitching patchwork covers for 121 wedding favors (postponed and scaled back). While the plan was to sew in a line, nothing fancy, any way you sliced it, the task was daunting.

Was there a detail that you loved from a far?
Or did you nearly go crazy trying to DIY everything?

Credits: Tea bags photographed by Lovely Indeed, spotted on The Sweetest Occassion. Heart cake toppers by Ashley Meaders, photographed by Meagan Gibson, spotted on Once Wed. Thank you cards designed by A Fine Press, photographed by Clayton Austin, spotted on Oh So Beautiful Paper.

Credits: Stitched address labels designed by Mrs. Dachshund, spotted on Weddingbee. Birdseed toss packets photographed by Kristina Hill Photography, spotted on Emmaline Bride. Favor envelopes spotted on Hostess with the Mostess.

Credits: Invitations designed by PAPERooT, photographed by Thompson Poole Photography, spotted on Inspirations & Creations. Notecards spotted on Just Something I Made. Burlap wedding invitations designed by Amanda at The Blue Envelope, photographed by Chris Berneking, spotted on Oh So Beautiful Paper. Programs designed by Kelli Murray, photographed by Erica Schneider, spotted on Green Wedding Shoes.

Credits: Place cards and Buffet Item placards designed by PAPERooT, photographed by Thompson Poole Photography, spotted on Inspirations & Creations. Menus photographed by Braedon Flynn, spotted on Snippet & Ink.

Tuesday Shoesday: Spectators & Bows

2011-02-22T05:05:00.000-08:00

Almost everywhere you look old is new again. One style of shoe that is frequently paired with polka dots is the spectator shoe. While these shoes were popular in the 1980s, they're not a 1950s style. In fact, the popularity of spectator shoes waned in the 1950s (according to wikipedia) when women chose slingbacks and sandals.

Credits: Halli & Nick - Los Angeles, CA, Belathee Photography and Shoes by Miss Albright, photographed by W. Scott Chester. spotted on Green Wedding Shoes.

Other styles that are popular right now hail from the 1940s. With a little searching, you might be able to find a pair of vintage shoes from $50 to $175.

Credits: Black suede oxfords, $75, from Mouse Trap Vintage; Black suede peeptoes from 1940 Sweetheart; George P. Estees Co. Canvas and leather peeptoes from Renvintage; Chaussures Ravel Red Bow Peeptoes, $69, from Gathers A Lot.

Fashion Friday: Funny Face (1957)

2011-02-18T07:07:00.000-08:00

I grew up watching KQED and more than anything I wanted to be Jo Stockton, the character played by Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face. I wanted my moment.

Which moment? This one when she's discovered her sense of style and grace and exclaims to a befuddled Fred Astaire, "Take My Picture! Take My Picture!" Of course, the moment I remember isn't really in the movie. You see, I merged dialog from a different part of the movie with this outfit.

Credits: mptv Images via IMDb: 38 and 36 of 98.

I hadn't thought of this movie for years. Then a few weeks ago, I found this vintage Christian Dior evening coat and imagined myself in it as Jo in Funny Face, sweeping down the marble staircase with the coat billowing behind. Since then I've been on the look out for the perfect dress which this week I finally found.

Credits: Black Satin and Stretch Lace-up Boots by Balmain, $1,036 ($1,295 Retail) from Bluefly;
Black Taffeta Evening Coat by Christian Dior, late 1960s - early 1970s, $5,800 from Vintage Textile; Pale Pink Chiffon Dress by Valentino, $3,450 ($5,225 Retail) from StyleBop; Camelia Ring in 18K White Gold and Onyx, Large Version, by Chanel; Elisia Necklace by Bulgari.

I envy fashion stylists and photographers. They get to create these dreams and bring them to life, even if just for a brief moment.

Thursday Purseday: An American in Paris

2011-02-17T06:06:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago I discovered Haleigh's blog, "Making Magique." Haleigh was "conceived in Canada; raised in California, and destined for Paris."

My pick for today is not so much a purse as her entire blog. I mean what girl doesn't dream of growing up and living in Paris? Gigi (Amazon link). Funny Face (Amazon link). An American in Paris (Amazon link). I want to be Haleigh when I grow up. Until then, I'm going to dream.

If you haven't seen Haleigh's blog, it's a visual delight, full of lots of ideas for engagement shoots.

Credits: Alice Les Metamorphoses for Making Magique

For more lovely #ThursdayPurseday picks, check out these other blogs:

Brancorpa, Demoiselle,

Peach Bride, Pearls for Paper, A Realistic Wedding,

Sparkle & Hay, Swatchbook Weddings,
and The Unreal Bride.

And the Winner...

2011-02-16T11:11:00.000-08:00

of our Blog's Birthday Giveaway is: Aubrey Fick.

Thank you to all who entered.

What Inspires Me: Books #2

2011-02-16T06:06:00.000-08:00

I love seeing books at a wedding, especially if the venue speaks to books or books are part of the couple's story. Imagine a wedding held in a library or a study. Think of high school sweethearts who met for the first time in the library.

Books remind me of my mother and my father. When I was growing up, my dad would read to my mom. He also read to us. The four of us would gather round him on the couch and hear tales of Alice and a white rabbit. Of a Hobbit.

There's so many ways books can be incorporated into a wedding. With the invitations.

Credits (left to right clockwise): Letterpress invitations designed by Brad and Sara at Constellation & Co. spotted on Paper Crave; Book invitations spotted on Paper Mojo; Antique book-inspired invitations designed by Jennifer Lane Graphic Design, photographed by Rachael Nicole Photography, spotted on Oh So Beautiful Paper.

As table numbers and centerpieces.

Credits (left to right clockwise): Wooden table numbers photographed by Jen Huang Photography, spotted on 100 Layer Cake; Scrabble table numbers photographed by Jeff Wallace, spotted on The Sweetest Occasion from Green Wedding Shoes; Table display photographed by Sloan Photographers, spotted on Ruffled.

Did you have books at your wedding? How did you feature them?

Tuesday Shoesday: See, Sigh, Buy

2011-02-15T07:07:00.000-08:00

Vintage-inspired fashion is everywhere. It's been years since I walked into or window shopped at Talbots; but, Julianne Moore might have me returning for a visit. I ran across her print advertisement for Talbots and fell in love with the look and her shoes. The ad sent me racing to the Talbots website. And oh the goodies I found there.

Credits: Joanna slingbacks, $129; Talbots Print Advertisement featuring Julianne Moore spotted on Pink Lemonade Design; Porshia platforms, $159; D'Orsay flats, $119; Talbots website.

I love that they have bows in platforms. In slingbacks (which I can wear!). And in flats. All adorable.

Have you seen the new campaign? I'm going to be scouring the fashion magazines so that I can save a copy of the ad.

For more #TuesdayShoesday goodness, check out these other blogs:

Bellwether Thoughts, Brancorpa, Demoiselle,

La Petite Coquin, Landlocked Bride, Life in the Super Burbs,
Little Miss Bride to Be, Magnolia Rouge, Marry You Me,
Meant to be Sent, Merci New York, Niche White,
Peach Bride, Postcards & Pretties, A Realistic Wedding,

Santa Barbara Chic, Simply & Forever, and Swatchbook Weddings.

A Toast for Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T05:05:00.000-08:00

Public speaking can strike fear in the hearts of many a strong person. If you're ever called on to give a toast, flip through the virtual pages of Toasts: For All Occasions on the Internet Archive. You're sure to find warm heartfelt words.

Eden Hensley Photography

Here's to our sweethearts and our wives;

May our sweethearts soon become our wives,

And our wives ever remain our sweethearts.

When going up the Hill of Prosperity,

May you never meet any friend coming down.

May all single men be married,

And all married men happy.

To Woman: The fairest work of the Great Author;

The edition is large, and no man should be without a copy.

May we have the unspeakable good fortune

To win a true heart, and the merit to keep it.

May Dame Fortune ever smile on you.

But never her daughter -- Miss Fortune.

From Toasts: For All Occasions Compiled by E.C. Lewis, c1903

(Spotted on The Official Somewhere in Time Fan Club's Website)

My Favorite Things #5

2011-02-11T05:05:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous letterpress cards and handmade Valentine's have filled my RSS feeder over the past couple of weeks. Here are the details that stood out.

The Finds: Kraft Heart Stickers by Knot & Bow, $3.50, spotted on Design*Sponge; Through the Post Clutch from ModCloth, $29.99, spotted on The Painted Style; iPhone App by Cartolina Designs, $1.99, spotted on Design*Sponge; 3D Framed Hearts by Paper Polaroid, $50, spotted on Paper Mojo.

After you've decided on how to express yourself, you need to dress to the nines. In honor of Valentine's Day, I took a classic color combination: Red and Black. (I abstained from including heart-shaped necklaces or purses.) I just love coordinated "mismatched" bridesmaids.

The Finds: Red Wallet from GottaWannItVintage, $20.00; Polka Dot Dress from Yella Brick Road, $148.91; Black Wide Brim Straw Hat from Fashion Tramp, $35; Red Glass Multistrand Necklace from JunqueGrl, $24.00 ; Red Dr. Scholl's Sandals from Ready Freddy Vintage, $21.00.

The Finds: Red Snakeskin Box Purse from Young and Ukraine, $85; Ruby Red Christian Dior Scarf from Leeway Vintage, $45; Black Taffeta Cocktail Dress from Daisy and Stella, $280; Necklace from Vintage Starr Beads, $48; Red Alligator Pumps from Decadence Past, $62.50.

What are you planning on wearing for Valentine's Day?

Thursday Purseday: Hearts for Valentine's

2011-02-10T07:07:00.000-08:00

I stumbled across this charm and fell in love.

Chim Sterling Silver Purse Charm Pendant c1960s from MyBooms, $68

For more lovely #ThursdayPurseday picks, check out these other blogs:

Brancorpa, Demoiselle, Magnolia Rouge,
Peach Bride, A Realistic Wedding, Sparkle & Hay,
Swatchbook Weddings and The Unreal Bride.

What Inspires Me: Escort Cards #2

2011-02-09T07:07:00.000-08:00

Today's escort cards and displays would be perfect for a rustic, vintage affair.

Card catalog photographed by Erin Hearts Court, spotted on 100LayerCake. Tags photographed by Kelli Jane Photography, spotted on Every Last Detail. Clothespins on the spokes of a bicycle photographed by Ewan Phelan of The Last Forty Percent, spotted on Green Wedding Shoes. Postcards photographed by W. Scott Chester, spotted on Green Wedding Shoes.

Happy Birthday: Giveaway!

2011-02-08T14:22:00.000-08:00

Last year at this time we stumbled across the perfect wedding venue on our way to dinner. With the Swedish American Hall a go and countless questions coming at us from all directions, A Timeless Affair was born. Now 400 posts later, here we are.

Kick off your heels and pull up your favorite chair; whether your spot is an Eames lounge chair, a retro Joe Baseball Glove sofa, or something else, get comfy for a minute.

Lately I've started sporting flirty flats - cute without that element of danger heels introduce for a klutz like me.

Image courtesy of Shoes Got Sole - A CSN Store

Barefoot Tess BFT 1053, $59 with free shipping

You could put your prize toward these. I love the zipper detailing. And three of my favorite colors to chose from - Black, Brown, and Purple. If I could, I would take one of each. I think I might have to make due with just a pair in purple.

Image courtesy of Shoes Got Sole - A CSN Store

To enter to win a $35 gift certificate from CSN Stores, leave a comment telling us what your favorite comfort food is (I'm competing in a Chili Cook Off at work next week). If you'd like an additional chance to win, follow @ATimelessAffair and leave another comment with your twitter name. I'll be using random.org to chose a winner at midnight PST next Wednesday, February 16. The winner will be announced on Wednesday.

Good luck and thank you for a wonderful past year!

In the Moment: Sipping & Nibbling

2011-02-07T05:05:00.000-08:00

While we enjoyed some quiet time together, our guests enjoyed our signature drink, wine, and beer.

Guests snap up Crostini with Goat Cheese and Artichoke Olive Relish.

We chose three passed appetizers from Cafe du Nord: Bruschetta with Vine Ripe Tomatoes, Garlic and Basil; Bruschetta with Winter Greens Braised in Olive Oil with Chile, Garlic and Lemon; and Crostini with Goat Cheese and Artichoke Olive Relish. (Brittani brought us two plates - six bites each!) All were a hit with the guests.

We lined three pedestals up down the center of the room and decorated them with Real Touch Silk Dahlias and
Mason Jars hand tied with ribbons and antique keys.

Guests also took time to add their favorite recipes to our guest book. The book along with supplies - pens, glue, photo corners, and more - was set up in the front bay window.

After our cocktail hour, it's time for dinner, but that's a story for another recap. If you're just joining, here's our story so far:

The girls came over to our place to get ready.
I shared my dress with the girls for a real first look.
We bungled our first look.
Highlighted my dress and how it almost didn't happen.
We enjoyed some down time.
cubes and I took our turn in the spotlight for our portraits.
The bridespeople get herded for photos.
Socks captured!
The groomspeople get herded for photos.
The wedding party struck a pose.
I get veiled.
The best man and Diva of Honor signed our marriage license.
In turn, our witnesses, cubes and I, and our rabbi signed our ketubah.
Family congratulated us while we waited for ceremony time.
Then the chuppah was readied.
The Rabbi and the chuppah proceeded down the aisle.
Our grandmothers, cubes' attendants, and cubes walked down the aisle.
The girls went next, and then it was my turn and I walked down the aisle with my parents.
Once we were both at the chuppah, it was time to get married!
We each stepped on a glass.
We kissed.
We receive our first standing ovation.
We toasted with our wedding party.

Credits: All photographs were taken by Jessica Palopoli and Vanessa Naylon.

My Favorite Things #4

2011-02-04T06:06:00.000-08:00

Naomi's twist on her TuesdayShoesday post reminded me of the tangle of shoes I had tossed in my closet up until a few weeks ago. With statement shoes in vogue and more art than function why not display them?

Credits: Leon spotted on Enchanted Dream Weddings; Bolaget Fastighetsformedling discovered on decor8.

This idea of displaying shoes, set my imagination in motion. I immediately thought of a Cinderella-inspired engagement session in a shoe store or cobbler shop.

Back to reality and to my "Get Organized. Stay Organized." resolution. A wall of shoes would definitely keep me organized. The downside? cubes would go crazy if I dedicated an entire wall of our apartment to shoes, but the neatly arranged column of shoes might work. I have some lovely vintage black pumps and slippers that need to be admired.

Tuesday night while dining at Puerto Allegre, I saw a television ad for a replica of Kate Middleton's engagement ring. So what's a girl to do? Start dreaming again of course.

The Finds: Pink Rosette Handbag from Windsor, $35.90, spotted on The Charity Wedding; Friedrich Blue Enamel with Gold Chain Necklace from Fashion Rerun,$34; Christian Dior from Sweet n Sour Vintage, $400; Ste. Lazare Angora Cardigan from Mademoiselle Coco, $75; Natural Fancy Pink Pear Cut Diamond Engagement Ring from Weston Jewelry, $21,999 spotted on Classic Bride; Valentino Bow Pump from Nordstrom $745.

Of course Cinderella would be wearing vintage Christian Dior when her prince slid the gorgeous fancy pink diamond on her hand. Anyone else out there create stories for outfits? Or is it just me? I love having friends get dressed up and play act while I photograph them.

We've got a lot coming up next week on the blog. On Monday, we recap our cocktail reception. On Wednesday, tune in for the second in our Pampering the Groom series. Thursday will have the long awaited DIY vintage-inspired stamps (had some technical difficulties with my scanner).

Thursday Purseday: Covered in Fur

2011-02-03T06:06:00.000-08:00

First there were feathers. Then there was faux snakeskin. Now? Fur, of course. Mink. Weasel. And Rabbit.

Where to Find the Look: Christian Louboutin Eden Vision Fur Ball Clutch from Saks Fifth Avenue, $1,395, Fendi Black Velvet Fur Ruffle "Spy" Bag from BlueFly, $2,990 on sale for $2,032.99.

Where to Find the Look: Rabbit Fur Handbag with Pink Handle from La Vintage Amor, $45; Morris Moskowitz Mink Fur Handbag from Vintage Arcana, $74.99.

What's your stance on fur? Love vintage? Hate new?

For more lovely #ThursdayPurseday picks, check out these other blogs:

Brancorpa, Demoiselle, Magnolia Rouge,
Peach Bride, A Realistic Wedding, Sparkle & Hay,
Swatchbook Weddings and The Unreal Bride.

Thursday Purseday: Feminine Wiles

2011-02-03T05:05:00.000-08:00

Last week I fell in love with these booties with ruffles. When I saw this hobo from Tory Burch, I just knew the two were meant to be together.

What do you think? Does this soft neutral outfit work for you?

Amanda Hobo by Tory Burch, $465; Necklace by White House | Black Market, $58; Yes You Pecan Top by ModCloth, $69.99; Skirt by Robert Rodriguez, $385; Shoes by Charlotte Russe; $40.

For more lovely #ThursdayPurseday picks, check out these other blogs:

Brancorpa, Demoiselle, Magnolia Rouge,
Peach Bride, A Realistic Wedding, Sparkle & Hay,
Swatchbook Weddings and The Unreal Bride.

What Inspires Me: Vintage Stamps

2011-02-02T07:07:00.000-08:00

As a child I collected cancelled stamps. My first were stamps from Italy that my great grandmother gave me.

Credits (from top left to bottom left clockwise): Sarah Rusin Design photographed by Amanda of Turtle Pond Photography via Inspirations & Creations; Designed by Sarah Parrot with Calligraphy by Grace Edmands, photographed by Fat Orange Cat Studio via The Sweetest Occasion; Magnolia Rouge; Invitation designed by Nicole Tremblay and printed by Studio on Fire via Green Wedding Shoes.

For a wedding, this look can be more expensive than having stamps custom printed. If you're going for a vintage theme and want the details just right, you can go it alone (assembling collections via eBay or Etsy) or work with a stationer. I'd say no one notices the details, but I'd be lying. Our guests noticed our stamps.

Where to Get the Look (from top left to bottom left clockwise): Penny for Thoughts Stamps for 10 Letters from Verde Studio, $10; Puppy Love Stamps for 10 letters from Treasure Fox, $8.50; Rose Love Stamps for 10 letters from Treasure Fox, $8.50; Heart-Shaped World Stamps for 5 letters from Verde Studio, $6.25.

Check out Verde Studio on Etsy for curated collections as well as custom orders or The Paper Nickel Stamp Co (discovered on The Blah, Blah, Blahg via Snippet & Ink).

Do you have any tips for assembling a collection of unused vintage stamps?
Any vendors brides should know about?

Tuesday Shoesday: Pink for Valentine's

2011-02-01T07:07:00.000-08:00

A little something for everyone - classic elegance and fun and flirty.

Where to Get the Look: RSVP Rozzee Zappos.com, $49; Valentino Bow Pump from Nordstrom $745; Burberry Check Ballet Flats from Bloomingdale's $250.

I could totally see an engagement session where the couple step out for a night on the town at Harry Denton's Starlight Lounge here in the city. Or spend an afternoon at the boardwalk.

For more #TuesdayShoesday goodness, check out these other blogs:

Bellwether Thoughts, Brancorpa, Demoiselle,

Santa Barbara Chic, Simply & Forever, and Swatchbook Weddings.

In the Moment: Toasting with Our Wedding Party

2011-01-31T07:07:00.000-08:00

Not everyone in our wedding party knew to head downstairs to join us for a toast. Luckily Brittani was on hand and quickly rounded up the missing friends.

As bourbon is our drink of choice, it was only appropriate that my first drink after being married was from Bri's flask.

For our toast, we were going to have Bri's Watermelon Vodka (his on playa gift to us at last year's Burning Man). This was one of those items that in the rush from our place to the hall got forgotten in the shuffle. (ProTip: Create a checklist of everything that needs to go with you. Even if you think you'll remember something, it's good to have a list that someone else can double check for you.) Brittani retrieved the Tequila from the bar before the festivities started and we toasted with Tequila. Tequila has a significant role in Our Story so it was a perfect stand in.

After our toast, cubes and I shared some quiet time together (Yiccud), while our guests mingled.

In the next recap, you'll join our cocktail hour. If you're just joining, here's our story so far:

The girls came over to our place to get ready.
I shared my dress with the girls for a real first look.
We bungled our first look.
Highlighted my dress and how it almost didn't happen.
We enjoyed some down time.
cubes and I took our turn in the spotlight for our portraits.
The bridespeople get herded for photos.
Socks captured!
The groomspeople get herded for photos.
The wedding party struck a pose.
I get veiled.
The best man and Diva of Honor signed our marriage license.
In turn, our witnesses, cubes and I, and our rabbi signed our ketubah.
Family congratulated us while we waited for ceremony time.
Then the chuppah was readied.
The Rabbi and the chuppah proceeded down the aisle.
Our grandmothers, cubes' attendants, and cubes walked down the aisle.
The girls went next, and then it was my turn and I walked down the aisle with my parents.
Once we were both at the chuppah, it was time to get married!
We each stepped on a glass.
We kissed.
We receive our first standing ovation.

Credits: All photographs unless noted otherwise were taken by Jessica Palopoli. Bride's dress: Vintage I.Magnin, reconstructed by Miss Velvet Cream. Bride's hat and veil: Estar Hats. Groom's suit: Vintage Gucci from Sui Generis, reconstructed by Miss Velvet Cream. Bride's makeup by Guille of The Lobby Salon. Bride's hair styled by Catherine Walters. Bride's hair color and cut by John Skinner and Louise Frost of CODE Salon, respectively. Groom's hair by Cindy Lopez of Azure Salon.

Thursday Purseday: Electric Blue

2011-01-27T06:06:00.000-08:00

When it's cold and grey out, who wouldn't want a little blue? This lovely faux snakeskin clutch and matching pump has captivated me since the White House | Black Market catalog arrived earlier this week.

Where to Get the Look: White House | Black Market Clutch $38, Shoes $98

For more lovely #ThursdayPurseday picks, check out these other blogs:

Brancorpa, Demoiselle, Magnolia Rouge,
Peach Bride, A Realistic Wedding, Sparkle & Hay,
Swatchbook Weddings and The Unreal Bride.

Pampering the Groom: A Custom Suit

2011-01-26T07:07:00.000-08:00

It's not about you. It's about the two of you.

The majority of wedding blogs cater to women. With all the focus on the bride, it can be easy to forget that there's a groom too. No one ever exclaims "Say Yes to the Suit!" And a lot of men rent their wedding attire for the day. But it doesn't have to be that way. Grooms too can "Say Yes!"

In the first of this series, "Pampering the Groom," let's tackle the custom suit. Before we start, let's get the standard disclaimer out of the way: Neither cubes nor I have any affiliation with Proper Suit or Gilt SF. cubes needed a new suit so we took this opportunity to give grooms an idea of what you can expect when getting a custom suit. Prices start at $450.

After you've relaxed a little - gotten a bite to eat and a libation (wine or beer), it's time to make three decisions: 1. Fabric for your suit. 2. Fabric for your shirt (and/or vest). 3. Cufflinks.

The only trick with choosing a fabric for your shirt or vest is deciding whether you're complementing or matching the color palette for your wedding. Remember to bring swatches. If you're tackling this task together with your fiance, she'll probably have the swatches. It never hurts to ask for the swatches before you leave the house. If colors are one of her things, she'll be thrilled that you're thinking ahead.

Experts point out differences in materials and guide decisions such as two vents (Italian styling) or one vent (American styling) in your suit jacket. And to ensure your suit will fit perfectly, they take your measurements. Note it's not sufficient to just give them your suit size. Turns out that men's clothing is also subject to vanity sizing. (Who'd have thought?)

Typically your suit will arrive in two to three weeks. If you order a custom suit from Proper Suit around Chinese New Year, it will take a little longer - four to six weeks. The company Proper Suit works with shuts down for two weeks to celebrate the holiday.

Is your groom going the custom route?

Next up in the Pampering the Groom series, we'll talk about custom shirts.