Something Old, Something New

new crew

2011-03-09T11:44:00.003-05:00

We are skiing north of Montreal at Mont Tremblant this week, so I am posting light. The past two days on the slopes have been so fun, but I haven't been on skis for a while so my muscles needed a break today. I opted to hit the internet cafe. It's cozy and warm in here and I have a delicious cafe americano beside me, so instead of skiing I will spend the morning surfing!
I found these, new from J. Crew. Love the one shouldered one, but not sure about the other one. I sort of wish the bodice fit better on the top, and while I like the lace, the trim looks a little like curtains to me. Opinions?

handsome prints

2011-03-02T13:43:00.002-05:00

Just something I'm working on lately, thought you might like to see what I'm up to. Not sure what these are for yet, but I'm really digging making them. Obviously they are still a bit rough, but I'll see where the wind blows before I finish them up! Love to hear feedback!

the view from here.

2011-02-22T10:13:00.005-05:00

Some days I spend hours and hours looking at my hands and what they are doing, (mainly folding, gluing, and tying ribbon). The view today is nice! My nail polish (Plum Seduction #917, Revlon) looks great with the ink color (Pantone 583) on the folders I'm building for Krista and my Becky Kelso ring just looks great with everything.

sneak peak... los angeles

2011-02-15T13:43:00.005-05:00

A sneak peek at our new Los Angeles wedding invitation design, which will be released next week on the Kenzie Kate site. I'm super proud of this one! The casual feel, the colors... everything about it screams "FUN WEDDING, GREAT COUPLE!" to me. I love the lack of fussiness, it's just so... relaxed. Like a happy couple!
I was so excited after getting these samples built that I had to share them right away, just a couple quick snaps with the camera phone and thru the magic of the internet... there you have it! You saw it here first!

me, you and everyone we know...

2011-02-14T11:46:00.002-05:00

...are over at the BHLDN website right now, so it's running ve r y s lo w l y. At one point I think it actually went down completely, so if you didn't get a chance to see it, I grabbed some images.
I knew I would love it! My favorite surprise is that some of the gowns are very reasonably priced... my least favorite surprise is that some of them are not. Most run somewhere between $1000 and $2000, (not an unreasonable amount in my opinion). Then there are a couple in the $600 range, and a couple in the $5000 range.
I found lots of the accessories, cover-ups, shoes, bags, etc. to be things that can be found elsewhere... not in exact replica, but similar. The images I chose are of things I felt were fresh (at least to my eyes).
I was slightly underwhelmed by the bridesmaids dresses. I was expecting a little less J. Crew, a little more... something else. I also think that if the bride is wearing a $1600 dress, the bridesmaid isn't - so the prices seemed off kilter to me in relation to the wedding gowns.
I really loved lots of their hair accessories and the shoe selection was right up my alley. Aesthetically, I loved all of their lingerie. It was a nice combination of sexy and feminine without being vampy. Most of it was very boudoir though, not a lot of shaping or supporting going on.
I loved the jewelry. Lots of the BHLDN stuff seemed to be very similar to things you'd find at the Anthro site, but I like that we are getting away from so much glitz and bling and into more eclectic stuff for weddings.
All in all, I could see saving up my money for some of the more unique pieces. What is everyone else's take? I'm so curious to know what you all think.

be you. (tiful)

2011-02-11T11:53:00.003-05:00

Looking for finger candies this morning, inspired by these from Harvest Gold. Not for everyone, but for me, these are gorgeous engagement rings.

...and light

2011-02-08T13:14:00.003-05:00

I like these dresses from Saja. They're different, there's a certain sweetness to them that I love. If they speak to you too, consider dropping in on their semi-annual trunk show:
March 19th-20th
250 Elizabeth Street, NYC
Call 212-226-7570 to reserve yourself a spot.

in stark contrast

2011-02-07T13:04:00.002-05:00

Loving this combination of pattern and realistic flowers! From Elegantly Iced.

a good laugh.

2011-02-03T11:21:00.003-05:00

If you have some time today, read this blog. It's hilarious and it just may prepare you for actual marriage. Written by Kendi Lea, also of Kendi Everyday, which is also a favorite of mine.

gown faceoff!

2011-02-01T11:40:00.003-05:00

One of these things is doing it's own thing!
Can you guess which of these amazing (and very similar) gowns costs less than $1000? Less than $700, actually?
One costs $695, the other two will run you upwards of $5000 each. Guesses?
Answer below!

Dress #1: Theia Beaded Silk Chiffon Gown $695!
Dress #2: Marchesa "Lola" - as near as I can tell, about $8000
Dress #3: Jenny Packham "May Blossom" - Can't find the price, but I assure you, it's not $700.

*As an aside... it is nearly IMPOSSIBLE to find out how much designer dresses cost! After speaking with one very curt and tight lipped receptionist at Marchesa, an unanswered call to Jenny Packham, and google search after google search, I gave up trying to find the exact prices for these designer gowns. So frustrating! If anyone happens to know, please post it here!

gussied up.

2011-01-31T10:49:00.003-05:00

Valentine's Day is coming up! Or if you don't do Valentine's Day, maybe Date Night? My friends Jason and Deirdre have L.A.R.D. (Love And Romance Day). Whatever winds your clock!
Black lace lingerie is for beginners, how about the whole dress? Half the dress? A classy red one? The strapless one looks to me like a pink heart tucked into a red envelope! How perfect?
All from Mod Cloth.

the ears have it

2011-01-28T12:40:00.004-05:00

I don't normally go for big glitzy earrings... but then, your wedding day is no normal day! My attention was grabbed by these elegant earrings from Design By Kara, I thought they looked expensive, kind of like something you'd see Keira Knightley or Natalie Portman wearing on the red carpet. But they're actually not expensive at all (yahoo!). I don't think anyone is pretending that they are 100% precious metal and gem, but I do think they look it. Judging by the over 500 (!) positive ratings in Kara's Etsy shop, seems like lots of her customers think so too. In fact, 100% of her customers were pretty darn pleased with their purchase and that says a lot to me. Most of Kara's comments seem to be along the lines of "They look even better in person! I can't wait to wear them on my wedding day!" and on that alone endorsement alone, I am excited to share them with you. I think the opal ones would look amazing with a 20's/30's vintage style dress! Something blue?

this just in...

2011-01-27T11:10:00.002-05:00

Just got an email from the ladies at Anthropologie entitled, "What if Anthropologie did weddings?" Surely if you know me, you know that the only other sentence that could possibly grab more of my attention would be "What if Anthropologie was giving stuff away for free?". So naturally, I had a look.
Turns out, that February 14th, Anthro is launching BHLDN (i'm pronouncing it "Beholden"?) presumably a wedding shop (online? physical stores? don't know). That's virtually all I know. There wasn't much to the email other than a bunch of gorgeous pictures of wedding dresses, bridesmaids dresses, wedding shoes, accessories and all manner of other loveliness.
I will BHLDN my breathe until I see more!

taking it up a notch...

2011-01-26T10:36:00.004-05:00

Sage advice on planning a stellar party from the uber creative Jordan Ferney of Oh Happy Day, applicable to everything from a birthday party to a wedding. I chose this photo from her post simply because it fits in with my recent rainbow infatuation. Seriously, I am obsessed. I shall blame it on the dismal weather.

right in the middle...

2011-01-25T09:55:00.006-05:00

Taking it to the next level are these gorgeous beaded and bejeweled sashes and belts to jazz up your ensemble from Bridal Couture Girls. I think these could really give a homemade/handmade dress the extra polish that comes with a little sparkle.

fancy fingers

2011-01-24T12:46:00.003-05:00

I want one in every color! I might even wear two to a finger if I were feeling crazy. Ever since subscribing to Lisa Eldridge on YouTube, I am obsessed with finding rings like hers (albeit less expensive). I found two sources, Robindira Unsworth, who makes all of the horizontal rings, and Pradman, who does the vertical ones. These are all sterling with gold vermeil and precious/semi-precious jewels. I think Lisa's are probably solid gold. A girl's gotta start somewhere!
Perfect gift for bridesmaids, by the way.

two for tea

2011-01-19T11:23:00.004-05:00

A couple of beautiful tea length wedding gown options from The English Dept. The one on the right is called Beatrix. Bea's golden embroidery is right up my alley!

jersey pom pons

2011-01-18T11:46:00.005-05:00

The rainbow obsession continues. As I sit here, camped in front of the heater with two sweaters on, sipping coffee and looking out the window at about 7 inches of old snow now covered by a crusty "wintery mix" of freezing rain and slush, I am struck by how over winter I am and how much I would welcome the colors of spring.
Linda of Craftaholics Anonymous posted a wonderful tutorial on how to make your own cheerful pom pons from scraps of knit jersey. How fun would it be to decorate with loads of these in every color of the rainbow? Linda recommend making your poms out of old tee shirts - I usually give my unwanted or ill-fitting stuff to a clothing drive, but if I had tees that had holes or ones that were too worn out to donate, this would be a great use for them. (Not that I have worn a tee shirt in months... I forget what mine look like). I might also head down to my local bargain fabric store, where they sell loads of knit jersey fabric for $1 a yard. (Yeah, Lorraine Fabrics!) I love that these are made out of fabric and they could be reused, much nicer than tissue paper in my opinion, and just about colorful enough to make me forget about the wintery mix.

diy happiness

2011-01-17T12:29:00.003-05:00

My newest obsession is Project Wedding's DIY section, Jordan Ferney (of Oh Happy Day) has the best ideas! These mobiles make me smile, could be because they are rainbow colored (yet another recent obsession) or could be because they cost less than $25 to make... You can decide!

handmade weddings

2011-01-13T12:58:00.003-05:00

Came across this yesterday on Design*Sponge... I can't tell you how much I wish there was a book like this on the shelves when I was getting married back in 2004. If you're interesting in this DIY, creative, everything meaningful, nothing glitzy, low-key, high energy vibe - this ones for you!
Handmade Weddings, by Eunice Moyle, Sabrina Moyle, and Shana Faust available at Amazon.

everyday forever

2011-01-11T11:21:00.003-05:00

I love these for their wear-me-everyday-forever-effortlessness. Some are diamonds, some are not. I personally love a colorful stone, but they are all so simply beautiful! Anyone in the market for an engagement ring?
From One Stone.

gown faceoff!

2011-01-10T11:37:00.002-05:00

Fun new game! I'll find two bridal gowns that are super similar, and you guess which is the more expensive one. And let me know which you like better.
Answer below:

Left: Aidan Maddox Strapless Beaded Gown, $279
Right: J Crew Taryn Gown, $495

local love

2011-01-07T15:57:00.001-05:00

Fellow Rhode Islander Gleena makes cute little pots! Great for Valentines Day or your bridesmaids!

BOGO!

2011-01-06T13:24:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite wedding accessory shops, Little White Dresser, is starting the year off with a BOGO! Buy an exquisite headband, get a cute pair of earrings, or a belt, or another headband (for yourself, or maybe as a gift for your maid-of-honor?) FREE.
Let me know if you take advantage of this, I'd love to see what you picked! Everything is so gorgeous!

2011-01-04T15:42:00.002-05:00

I have been gone for so long, I feel I owe you a little visual of what we have been up to! We had a wonderful (if sickly) holiday of stomach flus and sinus infections. Time was spent with all manner of loved ones, two and four legged. It was a beautiful Christmas. Niko found his belly button. I cut off all my hair (inspired by the beautiful Emma Watson). I also have taken up stone carving (didn't see that one coming did you)? More tomorrow, but for now I will leave you with these family pics.

2010-12-07T14:23:00.002-05:00

It's that time of year and thoughts turn (ever so briefly) away from wedding planning to gift giving. Since everyone else is sharing, I thought I'd throw my two cents in as well. For giving or getting, these are some of my favorite pretties around.
Festive Bouquet Gigi Purse - $49
KIT Gloves in Chartruese - $35
Drapey Bow Earrings - $30
Plant Fiber Basket - $52
Loop Scarf - $80

free shipping!

2010-11-30T12:09:00.002-05:00

This week we are offering free domestic shipping on our lacquered wooden box sets.
They make great gifts! After the box is empty, it can be refilled with more Kenzie Kate note cards or you can use it as a recipe box!

sparkle more, for less

2010-11-29T14:53:00.003-05:00

All manner of sparkly things, ON SALE!
Triangle Bracelet from Bethany Cocco - 25% off until Wednesday, December 1st.
Dulphine Sequin V-neck from J. Crew - 25% off
Tiny Scallop Sequined Headband from Jennifer Behr - 30% off until December 10th with code SPARKLE.
Kiss Kiss Pumps from Badgley Mischka - 20% off today at Piperlime with code LUCKY20.
Gold Coral Ring, also from Bethany Cocco - 25% off until Wednesday, December 1st.
Happy sparkling everyone!

happy feet

2010-11-19T16:50:00.004-05:00

Leaving you for the week with these adorable shoe clips from Ban.do whom you may know from posts such as this. Via Oh Joy!
Have a great weekend everyone! I'll be raking leaves, planting bulbs and celebrating this week's major milestone of having reached my -15 lb goal since I started WW in September. I am at this very moment wearing size 4 pants. They are a big 4 but the tag says 4, and I couldn't be happier about it. Just in time for Thanksgiving! Three cheers for a solid week of skinny jeans!

lacy love

2010-11-18T10:51:00.003-05:00

Wouldn't this make a stunning daytime reception dress? Spinning Lace Dress from Anthro. Adorably chic with a rosy little wrist corsage and some dainty white gloves.

thinking not so very far ahead

2010-11-16T16:12:00.002-05:00

Holiday party to attend? Holiday wedding to attend? Even better! These are my picks for the party season. If money were no object and I got my pick of the litter, I would invest in the Without Equal Dress, bottom left. If money were an object (which it usually is) I might go for the slightly less extravagant With Only A Wink Dress, top right. Both would look smashing with a red lip. First three from Modcloth, last one from Anthropologie.

excuses.

2010-11-12T11:27:00.004-05:00

In the past week (where I have been woefully absent), the following things have happened:
*We hosted 8 extra people at our house for a toddler filled weekend of fun.
*I made dinner for 12 on Saturday night.
*I had the flu.
*My husband had the flu.
*Niko had the flu.
*Niko had Croup (not recommended)
*Our beloved babysitter got a great job and is off for greener pastures.
*We had to track down new long term daycare for Niko.
SO. For this reason, I am posting about caramels, because this is about all I can wrap my brain around right now. To be fair, they do look exceptional. From Fusion Sweets. Taro Butter Caramel? Rose Orange Blossom Vanilla Butter Caramels? Come on! I'm not sure candy could melt away a bad week but this something else entirely!

guest dressed.

2010-11-01T11:12:00.006-05:00

Lulu's is my new first stop for guest-of-the-wedding dresses, not because these dresses are EXACTLY my style, but because I feel that they are blank enough slates that they could easily be bent to my will. The prices are great, somewhere between $40 and $80 per, which is exactly how much I want to be spending on a dress I plan to wear only a few times. AND I really love that there are so many to choose from. Check them out!

giftables

2010-10-26T11:46:00.004-05:00

A great idea for bridesmaid's gifts from Olive Manna at Wedzu (a well curated, handmade-wedding centric marketplace). Five personalized journals for $125. Love the colors and patterns!

hair candy

2010-10-22T11:10:00.003-05:00

Myra Kim, at it again. The photos of her new collection are really stunning. I love this leafy piece with the 60's bangs that so many of us (including myself) are sporting these days.

not your mama's registry

2010-10-21T12:26:00.001-05:00

A friend of mine registered for all her dishes at Anthropologie. Every time I visit her or the Anthro website I wonder why I didn't think of that... SUCH cool stuff.

lisa eldridge

2010-10-19T12:07:00.003-05:00

You know how I love my beauty gurus and this one's a keeper! I've learned some really useful tips from watching some of makeup artist Lisa Eldridge's videos. She also has a wonderfully classic bridal tutorial you should check out if you're going to do your own makeup for your wedding day. Even if you know what you are doing these videos are inspiring.

new york weddings!

2010-10-14T11:57:00.004-05:00

This summer I was all excited about this interview, but couldn't tell you guys about it. Now it's out and I can finally spill the beans! I went to New York for the day and did a photoshoot and an interview with New York Magazine for their Fall/Winter Weddings edition. I was chosen to be their stationery expert for this edition. So exciting! I am really happy with the end result, especially since both the writer and the photographer did a fantastic job conveying the relaxed yet professional spirit at Kenzie Kate (and my purple dress looks sassy in print!) This totally made my week.

stunning.

2010-10-13T10:53:00.002-05:00

Are hats back? I don't know. I do know that these pictures are blowing my mind. Hats? Anyone? From Topsy Turvy Designs.

up to...

2010-10-08T12:40:00.003-05:00

This past weekend I went to a lovely wedding in Brooklyn at Steiner Studios. They film TV shows and movies there during the week, and have huge spaces to rent out for parties on the weekends. The venue was pretty great, with a more than 180 degree view of the Manhattan skyline as seen thru the slightly gritty veil of the Brooklyn Navy Yards. The space was almost all windows and the sunset was spectacular. Follow that up with random fireworks over the Brooklyn Bridge and you have yourself a show! I wore the ensemble above with fishnets, a black hair bow and a pair of pearl studs. The dress was from ModCloth, (I had it altered slightly, because the fit was too boxy for me). The shoes were from Charlotte Russe and were perfectly perfect for the price.
This weekend is my wedding anniversary and I am going out for a fancy dinner with the hubs here, so excited to try this place in Providence. I can't believe we've been married six years and we have a one year old son! It's like we're grown-ups or something!

menagerie

2010-10-06T15:03:00.003-05:00

Placecards shaped like animals from JonNi. The horses are my favorite, because they appear to be galloping when you look at it from an angle. There's also peacocks, french bulldogs, butterflies, elephants and a menagerie of other creatures.

Introducing Marietta

2010-10-05T14:04:00.002-05:00

Inspired by county fairs, swiss dot, seersucker, peaches and long afternoons on the porch, "The Marietta" is the newest addition to Kenzie Kate's collection. Contact me if you're interested, it's not up on the site yet. About $1875 for 100 sets (everything pictured is included).

a little chiffon

2010-09-28T12:27:00.001-05:00

Found this, here. Love it.

ruffles!

2010-09-27T11:08:00.003-05:00

Fancy affair or garden picnic? Either way, there's ruffles coming and going! Both from BCBG, both pretty reasonably priced. No one likes a shocking price tag on a Monday, especially me.

feeling super girly today

2010-09-23T11:03:00.005-05:00

Some cosmetic things I am really loving lately, all tested and approved!

Pixi's Nude Shade Wardrobe: Such a great combination of colors! They're all so very natural and soft. Everything you need for the "natural with definition" look is in this palette. I've used this every day since I got it. 'Nuff said!

Illamasqua Nail Varnish: This UK company really excels at gorgeous, unique colors. So glad this brand is finally available here. Check out "Alarm" and "Muse", my two favorites.

Korres Eyeliners: $32 gets you 10 eyeliners that retail separately for $16 each. They're creamy and go on very smooth. Easily the deal of the week!

cool, but cozy

2010-09-21T10:29:00.002-05:00

Feeling cozy on a cool, sunny day. These sweaters strike the perfect note. From Sweet Knitting.

scosha

2010-09-16T10:34:00.003-05:00

So pretty! I love these so much. The tiny diamond in the bottom left corner is my favorite, such a great idea for an engagement ring! From Scosha NYC.

flo & percy

2010-09-15T10:47:00.001-05:00

Drool worthy hair accessories and photos over at Flo & Percy! Check out their Bohemia line. Amazing!

catching up on your correspondence?

2010-09-10T11:19:00.007-05:00

I'm so excited to announce the newest addition to the Kenzie Kate collection! Our bran' spankin' new Correspondence Sets! We've custom made these amazing limited edition wooden boxes and filled them with all our favorite note cards and a rainbow of envelopes. There's a total of 50 notecards and 50 envelopes in there! The ultimate desk accessory, if you will...
I'm so proud of this set, it's truly something I would love to give and (especially) GET as a gift. I couldn't be more excited to show it to you guys! I really hope you like it! You can check them out more closely here.

twinkle toes

2010-09-08T21:35:00.002-05:00

My kind of something blue! Love the little bows on the toes. Shoe clips from shop No. 114.

party cardis!

2010-09-07T14:08:00.003-05:00

What to wear to a fall wedding? The ceremony is outside during the day, the reception is inside in the evening. I think a fancy cardigan might be in order! I picked these combos out, but there are so many to choose from. Mod Cloth, Anthropologie, and J. Crew are all great places to start.

Terrace House Jacket with Fashion Ink Dress
Waffle Weave Dress with Arlyn Cardigan
Million Dollar Smile Dress with Ciel étoilé Cardigan
Asymmetrical Trim Cardigan with Windy City Dress

ruffle department

2010-09-03T15:01:00.002-05:00

I like the way The English Dept. deals with ruffles, understated and still very feminine.

Stay dry today all you fellow East Coasters! Batten down the hatches and hang to the riggin'!

'dorable

2010-08-31T09:49:00.004-05:00

J. Crew's new fall bridal lookbook is up on their website. Love the gowns, love, love, love... they are all a little quirky and adorably sweet. I'm not as enamoured with the hair, but they're not selling hair now are they? I suppose they get a pass.

monday is the new friday

2010-08-30T13:33:00.003-05:00

This is more of a Friday afternoon type post than a Monday one, but I've got parties on the mind! Niko's first birthday is coming up on the 18th of September and we're going to have a little get-together outside on our new deck. How better to celebrate than with a cocktail? Kidding! But not really! There will be cake and balloons and all sorts of fun kid stuff, but among all those other things I thought I'd whip up a delicious cocktail for the grownups, something smacking of the coming fall, but still refreshing. What to mix, what to mix...? My search brought me to this delightful recipe from Dale Degroff (via kitchn), from what I read of the comments, the sum in greater than it's parts:

Whiskey Peach Smash
makes one drink

1/2 peach, cut into thick slices
3 or 4 fresh mint leaves
1 lemon wedge
1 ounce water
1/2 ounce simple syrup
2 ounces whiskey (Degroff suggests Canadian whiskey, but bourbon also works well)
1 sprig mint
1 thin peach slice for garnish

Muddle all ingredients except whiskey in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and whiskey. Shake and strain into an ice-filled old fashioned glass and garnish with a peach slice and a sprig of mint.

need a light?

2010-08-25T12:41:00.002-05:00

Just a smattering of my favorite lanterns for sale at Jamali Home and Garden. They have the absolute best selection (and great prices) for everything from the most random decor stuff (a bag of oak leaves?) to lighting and garden pots.

white owl

2010-08-24T12:37:00.003-05:00

White Owl makes these gorgeous passementerie necklaces, among other things. I love the look of the gray, so chic!

fall haul

2010-08-23T10:37:00.004-05:00

I have been feeling just a slight chill in the air in the evenings lately, and it's made me excited for the coming fall, my absolute favorite season of them all!
What better for fall than perfect skin, a defined brow, gorgeous lips and a fan of incredible lashes? Don't we all wish?!

Make Up For Ever's Smoky Lash Mascara - I have really skimpy lashes and I have been secretly (secrets out!) been dying to try Latisse, the new prescription balm for longer eyelashes, but am (not so secretly) too chicken for no particular reason. So instead I've been addicted to this mascara which seems to create the appearance of more lashes rather than thicker lashes. Not sure how it works, but my lashes seem to look very natural, just darker and more numberous. Nothing worse than clumpy lashes! I absolutely hate it when mine stick together. It's going to be a bit of a MUFE love fest this post - so hang in there.

Make Up For Ever's High Definition Invisible Foundation - This is so good! The finish is fairly matte, but not at all dry looking. It's really true to it's name in that it's imperceptable when you have it on, both in person and on camera (something I think we are all searching for). The coverage is good, I'd say medium to high. Overall, this is my new favorite foundation - highly recommend trying this one out.

Make Up For Ever Rouge Artist Intense Lipstick - (the satin finish was my personal favorite). These are really not like any other lipstick I've tried. They're incredibly pigmented and they stay on like crazy, perfect if you'd rather not be reapplying your lipstick all the time. You need so little to create a really nice looking, lasting lip. I really love the intensity of color these offer - #33 was my favorite - but I was looking for a very 80's pink - so that one might not be for everyone.

POREfessional from Benefit - This reminds me a lot of a much more expensive primer, and it lives up to it's name. I have larger pores on my cheeks close to my nose, and this really helps the make up float over top rather than sink into my pores. Very nice. Love this.

Anastasia Brow Duo - This is a brand I've never tried before but their brow duo is a new part of my everyday makeup - it's so natural and soft looking.

Thanks for hanging in there, I'd love it if you'd share your favorites for fall, and I'm sure our fall bride's would appreciate it as well!

succulents!

2010-08-18T12:45:00.002-05:00

Oooooo. Succulents! Sold in collections of 100, 18 or 6, these are perfect for favors or centerpieces! From Succulents Galore.

tuesday mourning

2010-08-17T09:44:00.002-05:00

Seeing's how it's Tuesday morning, I thought it apropos to post about this little shop, Tuesday Mourning. Illustrator Merrilee will do a custom portrait of you, our you and your sweetie, or say... of your two best friends on the occasion of their wedding! What an adorable engagement present! I love her style so much. I have illustrator envy.

tie one on!

2010-08-11T11:46:00.003-05:00

Do I detect something of a trend? Bow necklaces seem to be every which way I turn lately! Here are a few of my favorites. From top to bottom, left to right:

1.. Anthropologie, Bauble Bow Necklace, $38
2.. Anthropologie, Tuxedo Accoutrement Necklace, $138
3.. Anthropologie, River Bow Necklace, $38
4.. Diament Designs, Gold Bow Necklace, $40
5.. Betsey Johnson, First Date Bow, $35
6.. Marc by Marc Jacobs, Long Bow Necklace, $160

birdcage brights

2010-08-10T15:23:00.003-05:00

I tend to shy away from the conventional, so it comes as no surprise that these brightly colored birdcages sing to me. I love the classic shapes and the color adds just the creative touch I crave. From Wedding Aisle.

framed!

2010-08-05T13:29:00.004-05:00

Adorable! I love this idea, especially if you have no need for more mirrors in your house, (like me) but love old ornate frames. These would also make a great welcome sign or menu board for a reception or even a beautiful canvas for someone who is handy with a bit of chalk. Love it. From Revived Vintage, and very reasonably priced!

sarah hood

2010-08-04T12:32:00.002-05:00

I guess it's just a wedding ring sort of week! Sarah Hood was a featured seller this morning on Etsy and I couldn't resist! I love the natural, casual quality these rings have. Everything from women's engagement rings to men's wedding bands have the same high quality/low glitz feel to them. She also has some beautiful non-wedding rings, you know... just for fun.

filagree rings

2010-08-03T16:43:00.002-05:00

Love these! I looked for something similar for a long time when I was in the market for a wedding band. I hope you like! From Nurit Design, all the way from Isreal.

pies in a jar

2010-07-30T15:06:00.002-05:00

Fantastic favor idea from All Jarred Up - single serving pies in a jar! YUM!
Have a great weekend everyone!

ilexia

2010-07-28T13:07:00.002-05:00

Orchid drop earrings, from Ilexia Designs. Perfect gifts for the girls... or you!

post!

2010-07-27T10:23:00.002-05:00

Posts! They're the new chandeliers. Just in time, as Niko has just learned to grab for my earrings and PULLLL to get a funny reaction from mommy.
All from Anthropologie. The owl heads are precious, but I think the trefoil posts are my fav.

eye candy

2010-07-26T11:23:00.003-05:00

So (as you may have guessed), it turns out that I am not allowed to share my news. Suffice to say that I was very busy last week traveling for some exciting press coming out on Kenzie Kate this fall. I know, that was such a tease. You'll be the first to know when it hits the news stands.
In the mean time, please allow me to make it up to you with some Monday morning eye candy, perfect little treats to beat these summer heats.
Peruvian Chocolate Caramellows
Nutty French Nougat
Vanilla Fleur de Sel Caramels
and Assorted Macarons

something new from something new

2010-07-21T12:12:00.002-05:00

I've been working so hard lately! I've got a bunch of exciting developments to share, but I'm not sure if I'm allowed to share them... So whilst I find out, I will share these amazing hair bands from Be Something New! Love!

short and sweet

2010-07-14T16:59:00.002-05:00

Just the right amount of femininity and style. Just lovely.
Well done Claire La Faye, well done!

twinkle toes

2010-07-13T13:43:00.002-05:00

This shop takes plain ol' shoes and makes them awesome! You know me, I'm a sucker for a little creative embellishment. From Paris xox.

swoon.

2010-07-08T21:27:00.002-05:00

Love these dresses! Swoon. So often you find the more modern dresses are super expensive, these... not so much! Check out the bridesmaid's dresses while you're over there, definitely worth a peek!

**On a side note, some of you may have noticed that comments have been slow to get published lately. You can blame the trolls and spammers out there. I was getting absolutely inundated with crap and it was taking me half my morning just to delete it, so I had to put everything "on approval". So annoying. Anyway, your comments will now get published instantly - unless you're commenting on something more than 14 days old, in which case I will have to approve it. This should improve slow comment posting and combat the spammers. Stupid spammers.

beautiful bespoke

2010-07-06T11:28:00.004-05:00

I considered having a dress made for my wedding, but not only was it very hard to find a dress maker/designer/seamstress at the time, but I found that when I did, I was still nervous about trusting them with my dress.
Today I stumbled across the work of this amazing Etsy vendor - Fairytale Weddings - and I actually got a little misty while reading her feedback, it was all THAT good. I feel pretty darn confident recommending her work for anyone looking to have their dress made. She seems to embrace loads of different, unique styles. I wish I needed a dress for something!

Gulp.

2010-06-30T16:45:00.002-05:00

These are paper. 'Nuf said.
From The Green Vase. Via Oh Happy Day!

by candle light

2010-06-29T11:05:00.003-05:00

These waldorf star lanterns would be adorable in different sizes running down the center of a long table or as part of an assymetrical centerpiece. Maybe best with LED lights rather than candles? The floating acorn cap candles were just too cute to pass up. Both items from Green Baboon.

summer face

2010-06-28T11:29:00.004-05:00

It is so hot here. So hot. I normally have fun with my makeup in the morning - eye liner and I have a history of good times together - but lately it's been all about making my skin look nice without using anything unecessary. Nothing worse than makeup sliding around on your face on a hot day!
I've found a couple great products recently (mainly from watching Pixiwoo) that work perfectly for hot weather and that I have been absolutely loving.
1) Makeup Forever HD Concealer. Looks so natural on, stays on.
2) Hoola bronzer. I try to get as little sun as possible on my face, but I really don't dig the vampire look. Bronzer is my friend. This stuff is awesome because it's got no shine to it and it's super sheer. It's the most natural looking bronzer I've ever tried.
3) Pixi Lip Blush. I really hate it when I'm driving with the windows down and my hair gets stuck in my lip gloss. This Lip "blush" is exactly like a magic marker for your lips. Not sticky, not drying, and stains your lips a delightfully natural shade for a few hours. Really great for summer. I have this in Purity, and would highly recommend it.
Anyone else have hot weather recommends? I'd love to hear them, and I'm sure the summer brides out there would be greatful! Stay cool everybody!

peppermint pretty!

2010-06-23T13:36:00.003-05:00

Pretty! These custom vintage-style dresses would go perfectly with yesterday's vintage hair-do tutorials! By Peppermint Pretty.

hair how-to's

2010-06-22T15:57:00.003-05:00

Hair stylist Johnny Lavoy posts how-to's for the Betty Page bang and the Veronica Lake wave. I've always wondered. Now I know! Very useful if you are planning to do your own hair, or, better yet, watch with a friend and have her do it!

Carol Hannah Wedding

2010-06-16T11:06:00.003-05:00

I've posted about Carol Hannah (of Project Runway fame) for her bridesmaids designs before, (so beautiful!). Her wedding gowns are just as amazing! I love the draping on the one shouldered ones. Love.

vintage stamps!

2010-06-15T14:16:00.002-05:00

People always ask me where they can get vintage stamps (a la all the Martha Stewart Weddings invitation layouts). They can be tricky to find, especially in the right quantities and in nice combinations. That said... I give you Verde Studio. Specializing in just this sort of thing for wedding invitations, announcements or other special post. Have fun searching the amazing inventory!

love buttons

2010-06-14T12:20:00.002-05:00

Are you especially bookish? Are you in need of wedding favors? This idea's for you! These adorable little buttons are made from an old dictionary, all featuring a different romantic word. Such an awesome idea, from Button Empire.

experimanicure, update

2010-06-08T11:05:00.002-05:00

So my experimanicure had an up side and a down side. The manicure looked absolutely flawless for about a week and a half. At that point, it started to look a little grown out at the nail bed, (I had some serious half-moons going on). I also noticed that the polish started to get a little soft around the edges, where previously it had been rock solid. It seemed to be almost melting, but not in a gross way. I ended up picking at it slightly, and the varnish just peeled off in one piece. This is both good and bad. It didn't last as long as I expected, but on the other hand, I didn't have to return to the salon to have it removed which I was expecting to have to do. It was also starting to look weird because it was grown out, and I didn't really want it on there anymore anyway. I would make sure next time that I asked the technician to get as close to the nail bed as she could with the polish to make it last that much longer, and I would choose a lighter color so that the half moons were less noticeable.
SO, that being said. I would do it again. It looked super for a week and half, which is like 4 times longer than my manicures usually last. All in all, I think that this kind of manicure will totally replace the regular kind for me. It's just a better deal!

for lots of buds

2010-06-02T10:25:00.002-05:00

These made me smile this morning. They'd be adorable as simple centerpieces at an outdoor wedding. All from Urban Outfitters. All very nicely priced. Via Oh, Happy Day!

fashionface

2010-06-01T08:35:00.003-05:00

I've been wanting to post about Fashionface for a while. Made up of Nicole and Samantha Chapman, (two sisters who happen to be professional make-up artists), Fashionface.tv is a collection of make-up tutorials ranging from simply beautiful to wildly creative. I have been addicted to watching their segments for a week and a half, but I just can't seem to get a good screen shot! Every time I try I get half closed eyes, mid-vowel face. I finally just decided to post without the screen shots, hoping that you'll take a look see for yourself! Could come in very handy if you're looking to get creative with your bridal makeup!

just one piece

2010-05-26T16:43:00.003-05:00

I consider myself somewhat of a connoisseur of one-piece bathing suits. I have literal worn a two-piece bathing suit 2 times in my whole life. It's not that I'm that self-conscious, it's just that I feel so naked in a bikini. It's like I'm in my undies! In public! Horrors! I'm a total prude at heart.
J. Crew has some great (and flattering I might add) options for all you like minded tummy-hiders out there. Not overly expensive, and they look like you could actually swim in them! Such a novel idea. I am in love with the gray retro sheath. If I were going on a honeymoon anytime soon, I would totally get that one and wear it with these.

untamed petals

2010-05-24T13:53:00.002-05:00

I have a bad case of the Mondays. It's so gorgeous outside and all I want to do is go out and dig in my garden! Alas, I'm inside staring at my screen and day dreaming about being outside instead. On the upside, I did discover these adorable hair bands from Untamed Petals while I was aimlessly wandering around the web AND my fingernails still look fantastic (in case you were wondering).

experimanicure, done.

2010-05-21T15:00:00.003-05:00

Done! I got my fancy manicure! It was really very much like any other manicure, only in the end my nails were instantly dry. They have a shiny wet look to them, but are completely bulletproof. I was able to dig around in my purse right after with no damage whatsoever. The product I tried was called CND Shellac, which uses a thin base coat, polish and then a thin top coat that are all cured under UV light. The results are not thick and lumpy like a lot of acrylics or other gels, and they are said to last at least 14 days. At $30-35, it's more expensive than a regular manicure, but if it really does last, it seems sort of worth it. The only minor complaints I have is that you have to go back to the salon to have it soaked off. Normal nail polish remover will not do the trick. And they have only 12 colors, most of which are on the boring side. I chose a coral color called "Tropics" because I was feeling summery, but they do have some lighter shades that could be very bridal. I think the best thing about it would be that you could get your manicure several days before the wedding, rather than the morning of, and not worry about it looking dull or chipped, then off you go to your honeymoon with no touch-ups or anything. I will keep you posted at the 14 day mark to let you know if I am still without chips. I have high hopes, so far I am quite happy with it. It really does look nice.

experimanicure

2010-05-21T08:05:00.000-05:00

Lately I've been addicted to painting my nails. Purple! Coral! Fun!
I previously wore them totally natural, moisturizing and buffing them shiny every week or so. Sadly, after several "newborn" months of scrubbing my hands 12 times a day and neglecting my nails in favor of sleep, they are now looking rather pitiful. The phrase "she's let herself go" pops to mind whenever I look at my hands. No so good. So I polish.
This is fun but I'd also forgotten how annoying it is. Let them dry, nick them, chip them... It's not a perfect system. So! You can imagine how intrigued I was when I heard of this "3 week manicure" thing. That's right, reportedly this manicure lasts, unchipped, for up to 3 weeks. I've read about it here, and here. I have appointment today (in the interest of science) to discover if indeed this mani can last from the wedding night straight thru the honeymoon. The things I do for you! Stay tuned for pics.

broken

2010-05-19T10:36:00.007-05:00

What a fun idea! I got a piece of shard jewelry from the hubs for Mother's Day and I love it. It would be fantastic to make a set of matching necklaces for bridesmaids or sisters of a beautiful thrifted plate, or an orphaned piece of Grandma's china. Chic and sentimental, my favorite! From The Broken Plate.

fascinating

2010-05-17T10:50:00.002-05:00

I adore the creative shapes in these fascinators by YJ. The yellow one is my favorite, especially with a vintage inspired dress and a nice red lip! Love!

antidote

2010-05-14T10:11:00.004-05:00

I have been boring the pants off myself lately with a wardrobe of white, gray, black and denim... snooze. These lovelies from Anthropologie would be just the ticket to liven things up for summer. Dell, if you are reading this, the orange bracelet has "birthday present" written all over it. Just sayin'.
I'm out until Monday, have a great weekend everyone!

certifiable

2010-05-12T13:49:00.003-05:00

I've decided that I want to cage dive with Great White sharks. I know what you are thinking in regards to my sanity, and you might be right. I'm still doing it.
I want an adventure! A wild story to tell my son! An adrenaline rush of a lifetime!
Unfortunately, these sorts of adventures are not free. My Mom has about 18-24 months to talk me out of it while I save up.
Anyone out there ever done this? Dare I ask if anyone is doing something like this on their honeymoon? Adventurers? Adrenaline junkies? Anyone?
Image by Lee Micheals, via San Diego Shark Diving Expeditions.

a little bit rock and roll

2010-05-11T10:57:00.004-05:00

Claire La Faye of CLF creates these gorgeous dresses, complete with a lot of glamour and a hint of rock n' roll. I adore the accessories she chooses, it just goes to show how easily you can take a simple dress and make it your own!

gifts for the girls

2010-05-10T09:40:00.003-05:00

What a great idea for bridesmaid's gifts! These adorable little cosmetic bags by Juju Baju would be so fun to fill with little beauty treasures.
Had I about $100 to spend on each girl, I would include a Mac Shadestick in a different shade for each of my ladies, a Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler, (because everyone needs one), a bottle of relatively environmentally friendly Sephora Nail Color by OPI (my favorites are Caliente Coral, On Stage, Bare To Be Different, and Metro Chic), a wand of L'oreal Beauty Tubes Mascara (as a girl with dainty lashes, I think the 'tubes are perhaps my most favorite mascara), and last but not least, a Bonnie Bell Lip Smacker in Dr. Pepper (because that was my favorite when I was 9).

excuses + I missed you.

2010-05-07T08:14:00.005-05:00

Since April of 2006 I have been blogging everyday or every other day, but, (as you know) these last two weeks I've been completely and totally absent - with no explanation whatsoever. You must all think I've been flattened by a bus! Turns out, nope. I am not flat, but indeed as 3 dimensional as ever. I'm alive and well, and I have no dramatic reason for my absence. I just needed a break. Does that make sense? I was feeling burnt out, needed a little concentrated time to explore some new directions for Kenzie Kate (wait until you see!), needed some time to snuggle with my little guy, needed to recooperate and regrouperate... excuses, excuses.
The good news is, I'm feeling refreshed and I will be returning to you on a far more regular basis. On that note, I want to reach out to you and ask you for your input. Have you worked with an amazing vendor? Found a hidden resource? Discovered a money saving idea? Started a fantastic new company of your very own? I want to hear about it. I can troll the web, scour the earth, and consult my secret sources, but nothing can compare to your ground floor experience. I want to hear from you!

lo boheme

2010-04-14T13:16:00.002-05:00

The hair accessories at Lo Boheme are some of my all time favorites. Somehow they manage to be classic and modern at the same time. And check out those photos! Such amazing light!

sweet!

2010-04-09T11:29:00.002-05:00

Check out the literal eye candy over at Amy Atlas! Complete with behind the scenes glimpses at the making of three amazing dessert tables. Photography by Andrew McCaul.

fabuluster

2010-04-06T19:35:00.002-05:00

I think these are incredibly cool. Something about the intricacy of fingerprints has always intrigued me. These rings from Fabuluster can feature them on the inside or the outside of the ring. Check them out!

papery goodness

2010-04-05T12:34:00.004-05:00

Ah! Too cute! I die!
Check out these amazing little paper sculptures by Concarta. I love the look and I love the details she puts into these.

polli

2010-03-30T13:00:00.003-05:00

I've been seeing necklaces and earrings from Polli all over town lately. I love the intricately cut stainless steel designs and they have so many different styles it's hard to get bored of them. Their woven series is just stunning! I was pleasantly surprised to find cufflinks on their site, and thought you might like them for your misters!