1950's, Our Hats Are Off To You

One fashion that still has yet to come back with resounding popularity is hats. This small pictorial is just a pin drop view of the amazing embellishments of hats for women in the 1950s. Hats were always the completing touch to any wardrobe, until the early to mid-60s when flowers seemed to replace them. We now wear baseball caps, and sun blocking hats and other forms of accessories in our hair, bur not the high end fashion hats. We decided to take a peak back to some of those amazing and fabulous hats, from designers such as Frans Molenaar Couture and Jacques Fath.

Love Story: Alissa & Mark

Alissa and Mark are engaged! Check out their love story below.



About the Bride: Alissa Olson

• Grew up in Monroe, Washington Native Seattle-ite
  
• Currently student studying Web Development and Design
• Likes fashion, shopping, eating out, and staying in-shape

About the Groom: Mark Essig

• Grew up in Georgia and moved to Seattle 10 years ago after graduating from college.
• Internet Operations Manager for Whitepages.com
• Likes long distance running, working out, hiking, and the beach.
  

How they met:
We met through work at Whitepages.com as they were both currently working there at the time.

The Engagement:
When: 4/24/09
Where: Carmel, California
Details: Mark proposed in Carmel, California on the beach during sunset at 8:30 PM. He got down on one knee while Alissa was huddled up to her neck in a blanket, shivering. However, despite the cold weather it was worth it..as he pulled out a Tiffany’s ring and proposed!

The Upcoming Wedding:
Date: September 12th, 2009
Where: Monroe, WA- The Bride’s family home
Theme: Casual, Fun
Colors: Blues, Ivory, and Green (Love these colors too? Check our our color inspiration board)

Engagement Session Photographer: Isiah Armstead, Graphic/Web Designer, and Photographer
Wedding Photographer: TBD
Flowers by: Pike Place Market
Bride's Dress: Jcrew.com
Hair/Make-up: Michelle Lee at Juno Salon/Shiseido
Guys Attire: Banana Republic
Bridesmaid Dresses: Jcrew.com

Do you feel lucky in love and want to share your love story? Email us here.

Get Inspired!: Peaches N' Cream

One of the staples of summer is a ripe, juicy, sweet peach. Since peaches are basically only available in the summer, there is something treasure-like about them. They remind us of childhood days gone by, long summer days, and unadulterated happiness. So what better theme for your wedding than a good old fashioned peaches 'n cream wedding? Not only is it beautiful, but the sweet touches of peach you can add to your wedding tastes pretty darn good too.

Theme: Peaches N' Cream
Colors: Peach, Deep Purple or Black and Cream


Top Row: Bouquet by Beehive Events; Bridal party image via Wedding Tips & Trends; Peach sorbet via Acme Instant Food
Second Row: Invitation via Cornerless Tomorrow; Carnival Image by Ann Torrence; Cake by A Design Time
Third Row: Bouquet from Brides via Blog for the Bride; Gown from Decades Inc.; Flower Girls via Zinke Design; Peaches in baskets via Greenville Daily
Bottom Row: Shoe image via Decor Pad; Image by Jaci Clark

An Apple A Day - Wedding Day

Now here's a color that is about as positive as they come. It's a fresh, clean, upbeat addition to just about any environment and what could be more ideal than say at a wedding. The theme itself is one that allows you to use your imagination in a far reaching approach to many items and options from favors to drinks, to even the cake. We tried to include a few of those above. The hot hot, SUPER hot peacock inspired wedding look fits right in this color range.

You can spice it up with many shades of yellow or cool it down with fabulous retro- trendy teal blue. Want something more conservative or say even high-brow - add impeccable shades of grey or browns. Did you ever think of Apple green as a base color? Better start now.... it sure can be. Most of all have fun and send us your pictures. We would love to see your apple green wedding.

Flower Girl Dress: Pegeen, Designers of Fine Childrenswear

When A Budget Is Merely A Suggestion

Extravagance comes naturally to some brides, especially when budget is not a factor. Here are our top 5 most extravagant wedding themes that made our hearts go pitter-pat.



Extravagant Theme No. 1 :: Versailles Wedding Theme
Designed by San Deigo florist Karan Tran, over 300 fresh peonies were used to create just one tabletop!


Extravagant Theme No. 2 :: Green With Envy
Wildflower Linen's over-the-top garden wedding features a custom floral tent made of green orchids.


Extravagant Theme No. 3 :: Asian Art
Weddings held at the St. Regis Hotel in San Francisco are always extravagant, but this particular wedding with a $500,000+ wedding budget takes the cake. Featured at Platinum Weddings.


Extravagant Theme No. 4 :: Modern Glitz
This year at the Special Event conference, event designers presented their most extravagant themes and designs. This Modern Glitz wedding theme, may look like a minimalist's dream, but the rich fabrics and use of light make this wedding just the right amount of over-the-top-ness.


Extravagant Theme No. 5 :: Over The Horizon
There is nothing like a warm summer afternoon and a wedding overlooking the beach. With the natural beauty of the outdoors selecting the right wedding decor to complement and not distract is crucial. We love this wedding ceremony design by Karen Tran.

Real Wedding: Josh & Bobbi, Vancouver, WA

Josh and Bobbi's wedding was held on a fresh spring evening in March at their church in Vancouver, WA. The bride and groom wanted portraits in front of the field of cows attached to the church, in addition to reserving a private reserved bridge nearby.

In the three months the bride and groom had to plan the wedding, they busied themselves daily with all the wedding details. Bobbi and her mother spent endless hours making everything themselves; from candle centerpieces and wine-glass candle holders to the cake to the bridal bouquet, every detail was done by hand with love.

The spirit-filled ceremony was illuminated by hundreds of candles lighting the church. The audience sat in a circular pattern around the bride and groom, surrounding the happy couple with symbolized support and love.

The newlyweds enjoyed a simple reception in the church sanctuary and then whisked away to a romantic honeymoon at Junto al Rio, on the beaches of Sayulita, Mexico.


The Facts:
Bride: Bobbi Reed
Groom: Josh Mash
Photographer: LaRae & Cory of Lifework Images
Venue: Liberty Bible Church, Vancouver

Get Inspired!: A Seattle Symphony Wedding

Banquetevent.com happens to be based out of Seattle, which makes us some of the luckiest wedding gurus around. Seattle is home to some of the most beautiful natural attractions in the world, and the city itself bursts with elegance, class and sophistication. Today's inspiration board is full of Seattle-inspired ideas, locations and ideas. Centered around the theme of "A Night At the Symphony" this board presents you with all the elements you need to plan a formal evening wedding in downtown Seattle. For more information on local vendors, visit Seattle/Eastside website for additional resources.

Theme: A Seattle Evening Wedding
Colors: Deep Purples, Black & Gold


Top Row: Benaroya Hall, Seattle, WA; Bridal image via Something Blue - A Fine Bridal Boutique in La Conner, WA
Second Row: Sushi plate from Ravishing Radish; Bouquet by Rented Elegance; Table design by True Colors Events
Third Row: The Arctic Club Hotel and Ballroom; Lance Buller and the Monarch Band; Cake by Celebrity Cakes
Fourth Row: Restaurant at Hotel Monaco; Wax stamp available at Paper Fling

Top Fonts For Wedding Invitations

First impressions always matter, and when your wedding invitation arrives in the mailbox of your wedding guest, you want to "wow" them from the start. Wedding invitations are incredibly important in sending a message to your guests about what type of wedding yours will be. The more formal the script the more likely your guests will understand how to prepare for your event, and will select formal attire to wear to your wedding. If you choose a more fun style font for your invitation, your guests will get the message that your event is a carefree party and may dress more casually.

Whatever your theme or style, work with your invitation designer or manufacturer to select a font that fits your theme. Here are some of our most recent favorites. These are all available at Veer.com.

1. Feel Script :: $99




2. Compendium :: $99

3. Montague Script :: $59

4. Adios :: $99
5. Burgues Script :: $99

Love Story: Jenny & Aaron

Images courtesy of Stephanie Cristalli

About the Bride: Jennifer Jones

• Grew up on Mercer Island -- attended Mercer Island High School
• 30 years old
• Strategic Director at a Research / Consulting firm (Cheskin)
• Returned to Seattle in 2005 after spending 10 years down in CA

About the Groom: Aaron Branstetter

• Grew up in Bellevue, attended Bellevue Christian High School
• 32 years old
• Business Owner
• Returned to Seattle in 2006 after spending 10 years all over the place -- CA and Hawaii (most recently)

How they met:
Believe it or not, match.com! Jenny & Aaron met in July of 2007, went on 3 dates in the first week and never stopped seeing each other.

The Engagement:
When: 12/21/08 (Jenny's birthday!)
Where: Leavenworth, WA
Details: Aaron planned a surprise weekend for Jenny's 30th Birthday. She had no idea what was coming. He took her to Leavenworth, wined and dined her with horse-drawn sleigh rides, the tree lighting, a romantic B&B, and a limousine wine tour.


The Upcoming Wedding:
Date: October 24, 2009
Where: Seattle -- Ceremony is at Epiphany Parish; Reception is at The Rainier Club.
Theme: Simple, Elegant, Romance
Colors: Black, Ivory, Green

Engagement Session Photographer: Stephanie Cristalli (above images)
Photographer: Northern Lights
Florist: Laurel's Floral Decor
Band: Michael Benson Band
Transportation: Starline (for wedding party); BMC (for bride/groom)
Dress: Pronovias from L'Belle Elaines
Hair/Make-up: Salon Maison
Guys Attire: TBD
Invitations: Rae Friis
Bridesmaid Dresses: Voletta Couture -- Badgley Mischka

Get Inspired!: Bowl Full of Cherries

Isn't life grand? After all, you've found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with and now you are getting married. Life truly is a bowl full of cherries. And that is exactly why a cherry-centered wedding theme is just the right base for a truly delightful wedding. If bliss and happiness are what you are all about, take our hints for a merry cherry wedding.

Theme: Life Is Just Bowl Full Of Cherries
Colors: Pink and Red


Top Row: Cherries in a bowl from SAM Taste Events, Seattle: Pink Martini with a cherry inside; Chocolate covered cherries from Dawn's Popcorn; Cherry topped wedding cake from The Knot
Second Row: Cherry bags by Martha Stewart via First Day of My Life With You; Cake by Bella Manse; Cherry topped cupcake via La Ciliegina Sulla Torta; Carolina Hererra gown via Coco & Kelley
Third Row: Cherry Blossom branches from Wedding Themes; Cherry wall decals via Baby Picture This; Bowl full of Cherries via Minimally Invasive
Bottom Row: Cherry blossom child's headband by Banner Boutique; Cherry drop earrings by The Peach Tree; Bridesmaid dress by Eden Bridal; Berry bouquet via Real Simple

Pre-Wedding Bridal Portriats

Today we have the pleasure of a guest post from photographer, LaRae Lobdell of Lifework Images.

By LaRae Lobdell, Lifework Images
~ Guest Blogger

A pre-wedding happening that is still a tradition in the South and on the East coast is the formal Bridal Portrait session done 2-3 months before the wedding. At the wedding, a large portrait of the bride from the session is displayed for everyone to see. The Bridal Portrait session doesn’t have to be formal if you don’t want it to be. It can be a fun session of you in your dress, and can be a fun time for really cool, stylized shots that you might not have time for the day of your wedding.

Many brides like the experience of doing a “test run” of their hair and makeup and knowing how much time to allow themselves to completely get ready on the day of the wedding. It also gives you the opportunity to practice moving around in your dress and feeling completely confident and comfortable in it.

In February, we went to Gig Harbor and Tacoma to shoot Jessica’s bridal portraits. Afterwards, while in the midst of planning her dream Mississippi wedding, Jessica was kind enough to do a little Q&A with us about her session experience and the reasons why other brides-to-be might want to consider a formal session before their wedding.



Q&A with Jessica

L.I. Why was having your Bridal Portrait taken before your wedding important to you?

J.J. Growing up in the south, bridal portraits seem to have long been a timeless tradition. I can remember going to weddings as a little girl and seeing the beautiful portraits on display at the reception all the while making notes in my head of how I would want mine to look. It seemed only natural that I should have bridal portraits taken and continue the tradition.

L.I. How far in advance did you start planning for your bridal portrait session?

J.J. I started about 6 weeks before the session to make certain that I would have plenty of time to find the perfect locale for the bridal portraits. I did not want to have to settle on anything and I had to as my options were limited and I wanted to be sure these were indoor as the portraits were being taken in February!

L.I. What was your deciding factor in choosing your locations for your portrait session?

J.J. Kensington Gardens offered a very beautiful and elegant background. The setting was immaculate both indoors and outdoors. I especially loved the plush antique furniture and the natural light that flowed in from the many windows. The grounds were pristine and the fountain in the front was a great focal point.

The historic and architecturally grand Union Station rotunda was a last minute idea that offered the perfect contrast to the warm and inviting English-Manor style setting at Kensington Gardens. There was beautiful glass artwork by Dale Chihuly hanging throughout and magnificent marble walls and floors that really made everything dramatic and completely amazing.

I knew each of these locations would give me completely different portraits and yet still remain classic and beautiful.

L.I. How will you display your portrait at your wedding?

J.J. The 16 x 20 framed portrait will be displayed on an easel next to the guest book table.

L.I. Will you be giving any portraits to your groom as a wedding gift? If so, will he like a framed print or small album?

J.J. I will not be giving any portraits to Kevin [the groom] as his wedding gift but I will absolutely make a small photo album with both of our favorites after the wedding.

L.I. Did you use any of your bridal portrait images for a newspaper announcement?

J.J. No, I did not use any of the bridal portrait images for a newspaper announcement because we wanted to submit an actual wedding day image of both Kevin and I. (But, I have heard of plenty of brides that have!)

L.I. Do you have any tips for other brides who want to do this?

J.J. Have fun with it! This is the time to get the portrait you want without being rushed to make it to the ceremony or reception. So it should be relaxing and fun. I also love that it gives you an opportunity to be creative with the different settings offered in the Northwest and that you may not necessarily have on your wedding day.

Thank you, Jessica, for sharing your experience and thoughts of your Bridal Portrait Session. It was an incredible honor to have shared the day with you!

The Facts:
Bride: Jessica Johnson
Venues: Kensington Gardens, Gig harbor & Tacoma Union Station, Tacoma
“Alyssa” Gown by Lea-Ann Belter: The Bridal Garden, Kirkland
Capparos Shoes: DSW
Earrings in La Sposa box: The Bridal Garden, Kirkland

Bold Look, Bangs, Big Hair!

We say "Bring it On" . . . and while you're at it do it in a big bold way and why not add the biggest look of all bangs. One of the greatest options we have as women is how individual our style can be in just about every way from the shoes we wear to the hair we flair. What makes you - you? It's all good. We had to throw in a true Icon of hair fashion to start our inspiration board. In the top left corner is a classic new do from the Master, Vidal Sasson - the absolute King of Cuts. It doesn't matter the color or the length, it matters what you feel and look good in. Thank you to Killerstrands blog for some of the above pixs. You also might want to check out a site called Hair Comes The Bride. We will feature them in a later article.

Donna Luna - 60s Model

Donyale Luna: Born Peggy Anne Freeman, Luna grew up in Detroit. The following year, photographer David McCabe spotted the lithesome beauty on the street, and it wasn't long before she was pursuing modeling in New York City. Her arrival in 1964 had magazine editors and designers competing to book the singular-looking teen. "They were looking for a new kind of model, a girl who is beautiful like you've never seen before." With her spellbinding features, ultramarine contact lenses, and seemingly endless limbs (she was 6' 2"), she certainly fit the bill. As much a child of the sixties as the face of it, Luna spent her off-hours partying at Andy Warhol's Factory and canoodling with the likes of Rolling Stones rocker Brian Jones and sometime paramour Klaus Kinski. Her nightlife pursuits took their toll on both her career and her health, but not before her beauty was immortalized in Fellini's Satyricon, The Rolling Stones Rock and Roll Circus, and several of Warhol's films, as well as in the pages of Paris Match, Harper's Bazaar, and Vogue. Yes the Super Model has been with us for some time now. Between her incredible looks, and clothing/accessories, time between 1960 and 2009 seems to have vanished. Check out those leopard prints, the heavy accessories, and makeup features.

Shoebilee! Special Event Alert in Seattle, WA

Special announcement for brides in the Seattle area. Stop by All About Weddings in Southcenter on June 27th or 28th for their SHOEBILEE event. Save money at their fabulous semi-annual bridal shoe sale with hundreds of clearance shoes 50-75% off, and all regular priced shoes 20% off during the event. Other miscellaneous bridal accessory items will also be on sale during this event. For directions visit www.allaboutweddingsnw.com. Any questions call (206) 575-0050

Get Inspired!: Platinum & Magnolias

If you like clean, straight lines, the fresh smell of linen, and understated elegance, then you'll love today's Inspiration Board inspired by platinum and magnolias. The magnolia flower has been associated with beauty and perseverance, as well as dignity and nobility. The symbolic meaning of flower species has been passed down from generation to generation and arose from fables and legends connected to the flower. The magnolia has also been said to symbolize sweetness and a love for nature. When paired with platinum, and light blush pink, the magnolia flower, large in size, adds structure and brilliance to your wedding design. For the true purist, the magnolia and platinum pair blend like magic to create one of the most sweet, yet sophisticated wedding themes we have ever seen.

Theme: Platinum & Magnolias
Colors: White, Platinum and Blush Pink


Top Row: White and Platinum cake by The Cake Girls; Magnolia flower girl via Cyber Bride; Magnolia Invitation by Bella Figura; Lavanda cocktail from Rachael Ray
Second Row: Table cards by Documents & Designs; Reem Acra Spring 2010 Gown; Grey & white stripe table setting; Sheer French maid babydoll from Victoria's Secret
Third Row: Grey Tuxedo tie by After Six; Magnolia and white table decor from Martha Stewart; Pewter Bridesmaid gown from Dessy
Bottom Row: White tent wedding from Style Me Pretty

Before and After - via Prop Gallery West

Welcome to the fantastic final chapter in the Vinh & Jolene Wedding segment. Through two traditional ceremonies, we have come full circle to the fulfillment of the image and imagination of Jolene through the visionary release of Prop Gallery West and Greg Olsen. Each of the two photo segments above offers you the view of the facility before Prop Gallery draped it and of course the after portion. Never never let a little thing like your surroundings give you doubt. Between your imagination and the draping options at Prop Gallery, look what imagination and inspiration create. Jolene is a one of a kind person with the energy of 5 people, so she is for sure NOT your typical bride, however she will be the first to say "Yes you can!" Below is the full final wedding ceremony look completed.

Check out the entire video of the process right here: Wedding Venue Transformation

Congratulations Vinh and Jolene and thank you to Prop Gallery West for immersing our couple in your gift.

Tough Times Call for Savvy Wedding Planning

Does the thought of savings hundreds (or thousands) of dollars on your wedding dress have an appeal? Or are you the bride who wore that magnificent gown and would like see another lucky bride enjoy it as much as you did while re-cooping some money to pay for a piece of that wedding?

This is a great site called preownedweddinggowns.com. On the day we clicked through, there were over 2182 dresses to choose from. A complete list of designers is available to select from - so enjoy looking - and think about what you could do with the savings. We selected three examples to show you.

Top Left: back/front
Designer: Cymbeline Sheath Adonis Ivory
Label Size: 10 / Street Size 6
Price Paid: $3500 CAD
Asking Price: $2000 CAD (Plus Shipping)
Condition: New with tags
Listing Number: 5264
Silhouette: Sheath
Neckline: Spaghetti Straps
Dress Description:
This is an extremely elegant, timeless and figure flattering wedding dress. You will never find another dress like this one! It has never been worn; has no alterations and the tags are still attached. It is very light-weight and comfortable to wear. It has fine, delicate lace and silk Carmeuse underneath. It is ideal for a bride who is looking for comfort with the utmost elegance and exquisiteness. It was purchased in NYC and made in Paris, France and is a size EUR 40 (which is a size 10 in North America/ a size 12 in the UK/ or a size 6 “street size”). I purchased this for $3500 Canadian dollars and would like to sell it for $2000 Canadian Dollars.

Top Right: back/front
Designer: Vera Wang $4500 USD
Label Size: 10 / Street Size 6
Price Paid: $7600 USD
Asking Price: $4500 USD (plus shipping)
Condition: Used
Listing Number: 4772
Silhouette: Trumpet
Neckline: Strapless
Color: ivory / cream
Dress Description:
Vera Wang Gorgeous, fashion-forward Vera Wang gown. It list for $7600. It is a strapless trumpet gown made of ivory silk faille. Tiny pleated gores extending from the bodice to the train. The back has beautiful covered buttons down back covering zipper, fully lined with attached net petticoat, gathered fabric pull to covered button below buttocks. Vera Wang's signature black velvet bow is at knee height on the back.

Bottom Center: front/back
Designer: Priscilla of Boston
Size: Street Size 2
Listing Number: 4293
Style Number: 4016 Ivory Silk
Asking Price: $2800 USD (Including veil and dress)
Condition: Used
Silhouette: Mermaid
Neckline: Sweetheart
Color: Ivory silk
Dress Description:
This dress is amazing! The moment I tried it on I fell in love. I just can't bear it sitting in a box forever, it deserves to be worn by another beautiful bride! The dress has two large bows that were supposed to be attached to the back, but I opted to have removed. I still have them and they are included. I had the dress professionally cleaned after my wedding and I also paid to have it busseled, which is shown in one picture. Please keep in mind one of the pictures attached in my ad, the dress is not pressed yet so it appears wrinkled, it was taken during my fitting but was just such an amazing shot of the back of the dress I had to include it. I accept Paypal and cash. If you are in the Dallas area you may come over to try the gown on- cash only accepted if you come to try it on. I am a street size 2-4