May 262010

Today’s board is inspired by my favorite film of 2009. I just adore Zooey Deschanel. Her quirky, retro, girly style really sets the mood throughout the film. (500) Days of Summer is not your typical love story, however, I find that to be the most refreshing part.

500 Days swatch

(500) Days of Summer Inspiration

{image credit} (500) Days of Summer album cover, (500) Days of Summer movie, paper lanterns, Zooey Deschanel, blue Manolo Blahnik heels, park bench, note cards, origami bird garlands, black suit & tie, blue dress, Endless Summer hydrangea

I thought the visuals throughout the film, such as the soft muted colors and Summer’s vintage inspired wardrobe would create unique look for a wedding. Here are some ideas:

  1. Create your own photo collage to have displayed at your reception
  2. Origami bird garlands
  3. White paper lanterns and white lights strung over the dance floor
  4. Soft blue dresses, either for the bridesmaids or for an unconventional bride
  5. Simple black suits with skinny ties for the groomsman
  6. Don’t forget the music! Perhaps some Hall & Oats and The Smiths

You could also use these elements to create a fun engagement photo shoot as well!

Apr 232010

Obviously I LOVE pink. I love everything from fuchsia and magenta to soft shell pink. And if it’s pink and has ruffles?? Even more perfect! Today’s post is inspired those two things, along with some touches of french blue:

French Blue & Pink Ruffles Inspiration

{image credits} Happily Ever After sign, pink bowls, J.Crew necklace, peonies, Monique Lhuillier ruffled wedding dress, french blue books, pink ruffle cake, pink ruffled gown, blue bridesmaids, beach lounger, pale pink flower, blue coat over rufflesstrawberry macaroons

Mar 262010

Today’s find is something fun, yet practical: self-inking rubber stamps. Stamps are a great way to personalize your letters, stationary or gift tags. I love the simplicity of Note Trunks designs. These two below are my personal favorites. I must buy one, but how can I choose? Feel free to vote in the comments section…

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{image credit} Top: Modern Hyde St Design Bottom: Parcel Express Design

Mar 192010

I am so excited to show off the handy work of my friend, Karen, in today’s post! She recently decided to update her bedroom by creating a beautiful, afordable, fabric headboard. She was also featured on one of my favorite home improvement blogs, Young House Love. Be sure to check out their site to get all sorts of awesome ideas and inspiration!

From Karen: I used 1 X 2’s cut to size from my home improvement store (I attached them with L brackets which only cost me $5!). I did use designer fabric by Patricia Bravo but I got a great deal on that on Etsy so the whole project was really affordable.

headboard-RR-tutorial

headboard-RR-how-to-make

Be sure to also check out the post that started it all: How to Upholster a Headboard. Special thanks to Sherry and John over at Young House Love! You guys are a constant source of inspiration (and also a good laugh!)

Mar 192010

Today’s inspiration was found in one of my favorite musicals – The Phantom of the Opera. Its a dark, tragic love story, depending on your point of view…I lean towards Team Phantom. The stage is set with beautifully lush fabrics and textiles that are rich and inviting.

Phantom swatches

Dark & Romantic Inspiration

{image credits}  tablescapePrague street, wax seal, bouquet, Jim Hjlem dress, chandelierdoor handlegray gownsheet music, tea lightsbooks, Paris Opera House, black rose

Its easy to see how you could create a memorable wedding, anniversary party or engagement photo session with this as your inspiration. Here are some ideas:

  1. Candlelight, and lots of it. This will create a mysterious and romantic effect
  2. Use rich, velvet fabric as a backdrop for your photographs
  3. Personalized wax seals for your invitations
  4. Chandeliers. Rent or buy them and hang from the ceiling or flank your head table
  5. Use sheet music to line the envelopes of your invitations. Also, incorporate it into your table settings (see below)
  6. Dark colored roses and tulips for your bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpieces

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The picture above illustrates how you can use sheet music in your table setting. Fold the sheets to create a pocket and embellish with a velvet ribbon (or even the same wax seals from your invitations). Then you could slip something special inside, such as the menu, or the schedule for the evening, photo keepsakes, fun facts about the bride and groom, or maybe the story of how you met. The possibilities are endless! Just be creative and make it a reflection of your special day!

{image credit} vintage sheet music CD pockets

1-800-BASKETS.COM