Happy New Year!

xoxo
Lisa

ps sources to be added later!

Sale Smarts

I popped in to browse through Restoration Hardware's Sale Section and came across a lot of wonderful and beautiful things. I was there to look at the Christmas items but a lot of the items sparked some wedding ideas. Why not shop for wedding goodies when they're on sale? When you're out browsing through the malls or searching online sale sections, think of all the aspects of your wedding and save a little money.



The first row could all be gifts for your family or attendants: smittens (couple mittens); monogrammed pj's; aviator glasses; cashmere slippers. The second row could be used as decor: pillows for the outdoor lounge, an umbrella used for the lounge or you could decorate it for your ceremony and be married under it; glass ornaments for decor or centrepieces; "Chit Chat" cards to spark your guest's conversation. The third row could be used as details of the wedding: an ivory teddy bear for your flowergirl or ringbearer; use these faux votives for lighting; frames for family pictures, and I couldn't resist another teddy bear, not too often you find a "eucalyptus" teddy bear.

Keep an open mind when you're shopping - you'll be amazed at what you'll find. I really like the Chit Chat cards, I think I'm off to buy them!

Martha's Good Things

Now that all that hustle and bustle is over I have spent the majority of today relaxing and playing with my new toys. What I would really love to do is sit back with a cup of tea and devour the latest issue of Martha Stewart Weddings, but unfortunately, I don't have it yet. So, I visited the website and found some beautiful things I look forward to looking at in print. Here are a few of Martha's Good Things.



1 Straws in a love knot
2 Welcome package for guest's doorknobs
3 Customized cookie cutters

So much for look forward to.

Winter Solstice

The time of year when the sun is lowest on the horizon and we wonder if spring will ever come again. December 21st, the winter solstice, low sun, long shadows, short days. And long nights.

Enjoy your evening.

A Christmas Wedding

Because we’re having Christmas at our house this year I've been planning, organizing, shopping, baking, wrapping, and decorating since October. And, since I'm always thinking about weddings, the realization of this board seems only natural. The idea started to develop with Matthew Mead’s marshmallows, then I saved the floral arrangement, then, when I found the little girl holding the amaryllis, well, the rest just “snowballed” from there. And, don’t you love how the necklace looks like a snowman? I do!



Bridal Gown by PLATINUM for Priscilla of Boston; Chair Backs by Brides.com; Little girl with amaryllis by Getty Images; Mugs of Peppermint Hot Chocolate by Martha: Chocolate dipped marshmallows by Matthew Mead; Floral arrangement by Yvonne Floral Design; “Snowman” necklace by Tacori; Cakes by Bakery Bar; “Tree” of packages by Brides.com; Red soled shoes photo by Heather de Anda; Candy cane heart by istockphoto.com; Truffles by Brides.com; Wreath by Martha.

Guest Book Guitar

My sexy husband, Andy, and I went out to a pub last Friday with our friends Hana and Adam, we were actually out to see Adam perform; he plays the guitar and sings lead vocals.

This super fun couple are our friends and will probably {yay!} be clients as they are going to be married next year. The spirit of the evening, listening to Adam’s fantastic renditions of some classic songs, and being witness to the smitten glances between Hana and Adam got me thinking about their wedding and some of the finer details. Then I remembered these pictures I had stored away for inspiration.

I'm thinking that a guitar would be a great guest book at Hana and Adam’s wedding. It's a big part of their lives and I'm pretty sure it was a feature early in their relationship. It's a unique idea, just like them. It would make a wonderful keepsake and it could be proudly displayed in their home afterwards, instead of stuffed in a wedding treasures box only to be dusted off once in a while. I love the idea. I’ll have to let you know what they think.



Photo Credits:
1 Grace Ormonde
2 I don't know! Sorry! If this is yours or you know whose it is please email me. I think it was probably a Knottie.

Pia Jane Bijkerk

You know when those things happen out of the blue that take you utterly by surprise? Like, step back, jaw open, turns head, eyes widen, and you say “really?”… “wow,… really?” Maybe a little giggle, “really?”

I had that moment the other day when I received an email from the wonderfully talented stylist, writer, and photographer Pia Jane Bijkerk. She creates stunning works and has renowned clients such as Donna Hay, Real Simple Magazine, and Gourmet Traveller. I mentioned her a little while ago because, she styled and took the picture above. I was so enthralled with the image that I framed it and hung it in My Room for daily inspiration.

Pia emailed to let me know that she has started a blog. It is just beautiful. It’s called enhance the everyday. She invited me to have a look, and told me there was a surprise waiting for me. Hmmm… Surprise isn’t the word I would use to describe what I was feeling. See Pia’s first blog entry.

I am completely flattered and humbled by your words Pia. Thank you ever so much. It’s nice to know that my little blog is noticed and especially by a talent like yourself. I’m honoured. Really.

Here is some more of her charming work:::

All I Want For Christmas

As the number of shopping days left before Christmas are dwindling I decided I should really get the remainder of my list out there. Hi babe! I love you!



1 This antique card catalogue is on my ultimate wish list so why not include it here? I’ve always, always loved these pieces and would love one for my work/craft space. I absolutely adore this picture, but for the life of me I don’t know where it originated from, which blog anyway; I found it again here bitsandbobbins SF Apartment Set on Flickr.

2 A Lodis briefcase. These are from the Audrey Collection. Since I’m meeting with clients now and packing to and from school I want to have a fabulous attaché to carry my fabulous things.

3 I’d like the remaining pieces of our Denby collection.

4 I’d like a Swiss Army Knife to take on-site with me. My husband has a Leatherman I’m constantly borrowing so I want my own handy tool! And I want it to be pink!

5 This mug from Starbucks is just so cute! I actually would like a set of (at least) eight. I think I saw them on sale...

6 Anything from Tiffany’s because, well, if you don’t ask, how will he know? I really, really like the "naughty" locket on the home page of their website...

7 A Corn Zipper from Williams-Sonoma. I love to cook and I love gadgets! I make this Coconut, Crab and Shrimp Salad from CookingLight.com all summer so the zipper would come in handy. Seriously.

8 Something Blue by Emily Griffin. "Something Borrowed" was great.

9 A pussy willow wreath. This is not the exact wreath. The one I want is much fuller and much more beautiful. It can be found at our local farmer’s market and I’ve been eyeing it up for years. Literally. (Note: you have no idea how much fear I had Googling “pussy willow”.)

10 This “Will Cook for Shoes” apron from Domistyle.com. No explanation required. Love!

11 I’ve asked for Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett because I want to read it again before reading the sequel, World Without End. Pillars is one of my favourite books of all time.

12 I actually already have this (because I couldn’t resist and bought it for myself!) but I reeeeeaaalllly wanted a customized Starbucks card.. And this is exactly what it looks like! My drink is a Grande, Sugar-Free Vanilla, Non-Fat, Extra Hot, Caramel Macchiato. And it says "My name is Lisa. This is my drink". Ummm. Yes. I am addicted.

13 The Ribbon Storage Box from Martha Stewart Crafts.. Truth be told, I want several of these.

14 These adorable and delectable printed chocolates from Recchiuti.com.

I can't help but cringe a little at my utterly materialistic list so... I also wish for, hugs, love, health for all, my parents to live forever, world peace, and an upgraded recycling program in Calgary. Please and thank you.

Pretty Picture

I came accross this photo on Aaron Willcox Photography. I just love it. I believe it was taken at a destination wedding in Italy.



It's such a sweet moment.

Pronovias 2008 Bridal Collection

It's feeling like a dressy afternoon... the Pronovias 2008 Colletion ...

Biota - Wrapping "Green"

In honour of fellow blogger, Jennifer, of Earth Friendly Weddings (thanks again!) I've decided to post something "green".

Furoshiki is a traditional type of Japanese wrapping cloth that were frequently used to transport clothes, gifts, or other goods. The ancient artform developed from public bath houses where the patrons would bundle their clothes into neat little packages. Eventually, the furoshiki's usage extended to serve as a means for merchants to transport their wares or to protect and decorate a gift. Learn more wrapping techniques at Furoshiki.com.

What a wonderful way to package a present to one you love, not only do they receive the gift inside but also the beautiful fabric, wrap, sari, pashmina, scarf you can choose to wrap it in. Think Christmas, birthdays, Mother's day and for your bridesmaids!

The following are examples from the Biota Collection to be found at a company called Posch, located in Montreal.



The possibilities are endless.

Busy Day!

So sorry there was no post for you today. It's been a crazy busy week and tonight my sexy husband and I are off to a Christmas party.

I promise I'll be blog-ful tomorrow! Have a lovely evening!

All I Want for Christmas 3

How fantastically clever.

Notebook & Pencil. One hundred pages and one pencil. And the pencil stores inside the book.



A+R Store

To Veil or Not to Veil

A reader, Serena, emailed and asked my opinion on veils – to wear or not to wear?

I like the idea of a bride wearing a veil as there are not many days in one’s life that one can wear a veil and, in my opinion, they epitomize the bridal ensemble.

Of course, the best part about wearing a veil is having the option to take it off, so, at the very least, give yourself the choice.

Not one to post without photos, here are eight reasons to wear a veil. At least for a little while.



Photo Credits:
1 Firefly Studio, [b]ecker, Jessica Strickland
2 Elizabeth Messina, Leigh Miller Photography, Boutswell Studio
3 Alan Maudie, Elizabeth Messina

Thanks for your question Serena, I hope this helps! Should anyone else have any questions or requests please feel free!

All I Want for Christmas 2

Ever since I saw a picture of a s'mores bar at a wedding I've been slightly obsessed with this idea (wouldn't your guests love it?) And slightly obsessed with finding my own s'mores maker.

The search is over...



Photo credits
Left: Cosi
Top Right: Recchiuti Confections
Bottom Right: Target.com

Anemones

Yesterday was not the best of days so today I decided to post something simple and pretty.

Lately I've been having a love affair with anemones; delicious, lovely poppy bouquets. Here's to the pretty things...

All I Want for Christmas (First Installment)

Having been asked for a Christmas list I have to find some things to put on it. My completely materialistic self has come up with a few things. Thought I'd share them here in case anyone is looking!! {hint, hint}



Love Actually. Love, love this movie. Actually.

Papillon Cakes

Isn't it always the way? Yesterday, when I was looking for a snowflake cake to add to my Winter Wedding board I couldn't find one I liked well enough, so I went with something else. Today, I find the perfect snowflake cake, along with a very talented cake designer based in Toronto, Papillon Cakes. I suppose it was meant to be.

Besides, when am I not in the mood for cake?!?

Winter Wedding

Now it’s starting to feel like winter; it’s well below zero and has been for a few days now, the air is crisp, my toes are cold, and everything is covered in hore frost. The chilly weather has me thinking warm thoughts about a winter wedding.



I want the mittens. Love that hat. This is hore frost. Wedding boots. In love with the cake.

First Row: Bride and Groom Photo from Martha Stewart Weddings; Snowy Ceremony from Brides; Snowflake Mittens from Smitten With Mittens on Flickr.
Second Row: Silver Christmas Cracker (tbd...); Angora “Bride” Brim Hat from theweddingringstore.com; Icy Bling from Cartier; Photo from istockphoto.
Third Row: Bouquet from Brides; Invitation from Ceci New York; Winter Wedding Boots from Henry Kaye.
Fourth Row: Snowy Kiss Photo from Van Buren Photography; Cake from Rebecca Thuss; Glass Tree Decorations from CB2.

Christmas 1974

This is me.

I’ve been trying to come up with a list of what I want for Christmas this year. What can possibly make me as happy as when Santa brought me this Barbie Carrying Case?

Pink Sugar Dots

The fantastically talented Delina Breeding, owner and designer of the Paper Sugar Dots line of stationary, emailed me to let me know about her beautiful, and uniquely stylized cards. Her designs are “edgy, chic and loaded with elements of fashion.” I think you’re going to love these as much as I do…

From the bridal line (LOVE the redhead):


From the gigi collection (LOVE gigi loving shoes):


Invitations (LOVE the first one!):


For your holiday cheer (LOVE them all!):


She also has calling cards and cards for “hot mamas”, and fashionista, retro, and brown sugar collections. They are all equally fabulous.

And, she’s offering 15% off all online orders – so order soon!

My DIY

The ever fabulous Abby of Style Me Pretty has launched a new challenge! This time it’s a DIY Contest. You just have to submit three to five photos of a DIY from your wedding with resources and how-to’s listed. The submissions need to be in by the 15th of December.

So, I thought I would enter, as I was a DIY bride myself. But, I’m not sure which element to present, so I was wondering if all you fabulous visitors could help me pick. Please and thank you!

Which of the following shall I enter? Or, which element would you like to see more information and instructions?



1 Ceremony Decor; Arch and Tissue Paper Aisle Pomanders
2 Wedding Pie
3 Bridesmaid Survival Kits
4 The Kissing Tree
5 Signage
6 Water Bottles
7 Reception Decor; Centrepieces, Place Cards, Escort Cards, Etc.
8 Cookie Box Favours
9 Stationary
10 Gifts

Please leave a comment to vote! Or email me!

Real Wedding ::: Melanie + Patrick

We’ve had the most glorious autumn, exactly what it should be, a little chilly with the sun still shining, what I call leather jacket weather. Today, however, is the first day it really feels like winter. The temperature has dropped below -14°C (7°F), and it is about -25°C (-13°F) if you factor in the chill of the wind. So, even though I love winter and Christmas, I have the majority of my presents purchased, and the décor is going up next weekend. I just didn’t feel like posting anything frosty today, I feel like something warm.

So, I’m recalling a wedding I saw on Erin Gilmore’s blog. It was the wedding of Michelle and Patrick; you can’t get any warmer than this. Dahlias and orchids, butterflies and canoes. What I love about this wedding is the serious frivolity and unadulterated amount of fun everyone appears to be having. See for yourself…

Woodwick

I'm almost sad to post something new because I just love looking at the sugar hearts! But, I found something else neat! I was at Chapters when I saw this pretty candle, and I liked it even better when I noticed that it has a wooden wick that crackles like a fire when it's lit. I love unique finds.



Virginia Candle Company

I Heart Heart Shaped Sugar

I got so excited when I saw these! Who gets excited about little heart shaped sugar cubes that sit primly and perfectly on the rim of your coffee cup? Me. Party hostesses, event planners, wedding producers. Me.

Just imagine for a moment, you've cut the cake, it's being served to your guests, the guests reflect upon the most perfect wedding they have ever been to. What could be more perfect? When their cup of coffee is placed in front of them with this darling little heart on the rim.

Sigh.

Found at Sur La Table.

Gal Pals

A while ago Liene of Blue Orchid Designs posted a wonderful idea to bring an exceptionally nice hanger to hang your dress from when your phototgrapher is taking that must have photo of your wedding dress. Brilliant.

I found some nice hangers (enough for the bridesmaids dresses too) and now I need a bigger "Wedding Day Emergency Kit". (Anyone know where I can find a really big pink toolbox?) Now that I'll have more room, I can fill it with more stuff.

I've now added one of my favourite handy things. Gal Pals. Have you heard of them? They've definitely saved my LBD and my embarassment from those dreaded white deodorant marks.



They are so simple to use, you just take the cute little pink sponge and wipe it on your clothing in the direction of the grain of the fabric and ... that's it! Gone.

They come in a travel size too!

The Knot's 10 Most Daring Wedding Gowns

My sister, Jodi, sent me a link to MSN featuring The Knot's Top 10 Most Daring Wedding Gowns . I don't necessarily agree that these are all *daring*. Different yes; daring, only some.

If you were going to be *daring* which would you pick?

Pnina Tornai Exclusively for Kleinfeld


St. Pucchi


Jenny Packham


Vera Wang


Reem Acra


Claire Pettibone


Ines Di Santo


Atelier Aimee


Platinum for Priscilla of Boston


Junko Yoshioka for Bonaparte NY


The blue mermaid style by Reem Acra is my favourite.

Real Wedding ::: Lindsay + Josh

Two Calgarians, Lindsay Olson and Josh Woitas, were married in Banff on the 3rd of November in a winter wonderland dreamed up and produced by the vastly talented team at Table Talk.

The princess bride wore three different gowns, the groom two tuxedos, there were 800 guests, a 24-foot bar made of ice, nine tiers made up the cake, and 15,000 thousand Swarovski crystals. It even snowed on the first dance.























The Venue: The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and Conference Centre. This was the largest event ever held at the Banff Springs.

The Crew: Event planner extraordinaire Lynn Fletcher of Table Talk organized the event, with help from an additional 300 people from more than 40 different vendors.

The Flowers: The church ceremony was decorated by The Nosegay floral shop in Calgary, and the reception by Willow Haven in Canmore.

The Invitations: The invitations, guest gift boxes and place cards by Plush Invitations.

The Cake: Nine tiers and nine flavours, by Barb LaBerge of Cake Creations in Canmore.

The Photographs: The esteemed Alan Maudie of course. I posted most of the pictures but you can find a few more on maudieblog.

There was a story published in the Calgary Sun you can read here.

Fairytales really do come true.