Make Your Black and White Pop with a Pattern

Black and White. It's the go-to color scheme for brides that want simple and elegant. It's a clean, classic look that, let's face it, can be a little bit boring if not done well. One way to keep your guests from stifling a yawn over your decor and get them "oohing and ahhing" is to use a trendy pattern. The use of black and white damask patterns has become a popular choice for weddings. To vamp up this look a bit more, splashes of bright color can be used. Our favorites are Sunshine Yellow, Lipstick Pink, or Bermuda Blue. The end result is playful and modern, with a sophisticated nod to tradition.

As with any theme, there is the possibility of overdoing it. An ornate pattern and a bright color will automatically pull  eyes toward them. This means that too much of either will seem chaotic. Find ways to showcase both pattern and color in small touches. Other details can be left beautifully simple using primarily black or white. For example, a white tablecloth is an excellent backdrop for black and white damask favor boxes topped with a colorful ribbon. Other fun ways to feature a damask pattern are in things like bridesmaid dresses, the cake, and even the bride's own gown for our brave brides-to-be.

Your color accent should be bold and bright. Pink and red are seen most often paired with a black and white damask, but the choice is yours. Remember that you are looking for your color to pop, not overwhelm. It should be used sparingly and in places where it will create a high contrast. Save your color accent for things like the pocket square in a groomsman's tux, ribbons on your favors, and napkins at your place settings.

Don't forget the flowers! They are one of the best ways to use your ration of color. White Daisies with a sunny yellow center, bright pink Gerbera Daisies, or the classic Red Rose will all be eye-catching - and not only when you toss your bouquet!

The most important tip, is to make it your own. This high drama look is trendy because everyone loves it. Just remember rules are made to be broken! One way to create variation in this look is by using a different pattern. For example, polka dots are another trendy pattern that creates a fun, vintage feel.

We can't wait to see what you come up with!

Jenna

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