Paper Wedding Sculptures by Etsy's Concarta

While perusing through some of my favorite blogs, I came across this post over at Mackenzie's blog something old, something new.  Simply adorable.  Have you ever seen anything as charming as these stunning handcrafted sculptures by Gwen of Etsy's Concarta?  Made entirely of acid-free paper with archival quality glue, Gwen's attention to detail is amazing.  Such a fabulous and unique idea for a wedding cake topper....or possibly a 1st anniversary gift idea (since traditionally the gift is supposed to be paper).

Based out of Los Angeles, California, you can view all Gwen's amazing sculpture designs and place an order through her online Etsy shop, www.etsy.com/shop/concarta.  To learn more about Gwen and where she finds her inspiration, check out this great interview between her and the people over at theweddingco.com.

Happy Planning!

Allie

Adding a Personal Touch to Your Summer Time Parties

Well spring has sprung and it is time to start planning some summer time fun. I can't wait to get out the grill and get started planning my first cook-out. When I am planning an outdoor event I try to think of new and fun ways to add personal touches. Here are just a few of my ideas:

• Add personalized cups to the party. Personalized cups are a great way to add a personal touch as well as allow your guest to take home something special that they can use again. It is also great fun to think of new phrases to add to the cups each year, for example: The Smith's 3rd Annual Barbeque Bonanza or Fun in the Sun at the Thompson's

• Include personalized gift bags. Using personalized gift bags is a great way to send home left-overs with your friends and family. Personalized bags are also great for sending home favors. For graduation parties you can include a picture of the graduate or for 4th of July parties you can include some sparklers and a cold bottle of water for cooling off on a hot summer day.

By adding personalized cups and bags to your outdoor party you are making it creative and fun. That is what summer time is all about.

Carrie

Personalized Photo Album Gifts

As a parent, I love going through old photo albums and reminisce about all the fun and memorable times our family has shared throughout the years. Looking at photos of our children's first day of school, each holiday and birthday celebration and all the special moments in between brings feelings of sentimental joy and pride. Even with today's popularity with digital cameras and downloading images to CD's they don't have the intimacy of sharing those moments than with an actual photo album or brag book.

After your wedding and honeymoon is over, imagine giving each of your parents their own photo album with photographs telling the story of  your engagement, wedding ceremony and reception.  A personalized photo album is one of the most thoughtful gifts any parent would take pride in receiving as a treasured keepsake of your special day.

Renee'

Wedding Centerpieces That Inspire

The centerpieces on your wedding reception tables are meant to add texture, create visual interest, and spark conversation among guests.  To create guest tables that inspire, the most important thing to remember is to be creative and pick elements that represent your personality.

This whimsical design is courtesy of the fabulous stylemepretty.com.  The bride and groom from this wedding filled their entire reception with charm and spunky details.  This amazing arrangement captures the true essence of what a conversation starter is and how to include your own spin on ordinary items to make them unique.  The centerpieces used here featured vintage pitchers filled with windmills for their guests tied off with hand crafted table numbers.  The focal point was then surrounded with smaller rose planters and votive candles.  See all the great details of this real wedding inspiration at stylemepretty.com.

When crafting your wedding centerpieces remember to be creative and think about the message you want to convey.  Do you want a wow factor?  Then you may want to opt for a centerpiece that is tall and elaborate to create an eye-catching effect.  If you want to guarantee that conversation flows at your guest tables, than shorter, more textured pieces will be your pick.  The choice is yours and the possibilities are only limited by your imagination.  For more fabulous table creations, check out our top picks below and get inspired!

Photo Credits: First Row: Floral mirrored centerpiece and nature infused Bird blossom tree centerpiece from marthastewart.com.
Second Row: Contemporary lemon and orchid arrangement and long rectangular rose filled centerpiece both from theknot.com.
Third Row: Tall eye-catching baby's breath arrangement and lime filled centerpiece from theknot.com. 
Fourth Row: Bold apple and orchid square centerpiece and beach inspired floating candle with seashell accents both from theknot.com.
Fifth Row: Whimsical chalk outlined guest tables with floral arrangements at varying heights from marthastewart.com and orange lantern arrangement accented by spray roses from theknot.com.

Happy Planning!

Allie

Wedding Shopping Advise for Online Shoppers

Many brides are finding themselves doing a lot more internet shopping these days. It is much more convenient for the bride on the go. I have a few tips for making your online shopping experience a little better.

• Don't be afraid to ask for samples. If you are looking at ordering napkins, bags, matchbooks and anything that the color is going to coordinate with your wedding, you should also ask to see if samples are available. Paying 5-10 dollars for a few samples could save you hundreds in the long run.

• If you are unsure, always ask. Most wedding companies would be more than happy to help you with your order.  It is always best to know what you are getting rather than guess at what you are getting.

• Check the security and credentials of the website. Unfortunately these days we all have to be careful when dealing with internet companies. If the company is legitimate you will be able to find that information on the website.  If you can't  find the company's credentials, call the company and ask them where it is located on their website.

• Always read the instructions. When placing an order online always make sure that you are reading the instructions for placing an order, especially if it is personalized. When in doubt look for a phone number and place your order over the phone.

The internet is one of the most convenient shopping tools available. There are so many options and ideas at your finger tips.  Just be sure to take advantage of all the resources that are available to you and happy shopping ladies!

Carrie