Photos courtesy of Cultural Intrigue

If you’ve been turning pages in bridal magazines lately or have gone to a friends wedding, you’ve probably seen candles, string lights or paper laterns! (Check out my image in The Knot) Lighting at your ceremony or reception adds a romantic, sensual and fun twist. Wedding photographers love having extra lighting during a dark reception to help give the room a glow without using the harsh overhead lights. These aren’t the easiest products to find and wedding coordinators usually have there sources and buy in bulk. Cultural Intrigue seems to have the best selection, however, it’s wholesale only (sold to licensed retailers only) – see if your wedding coordinator can buy from them. At least you’ll get an idea of what’s out there and what to look for! If you’re not using a wedding coordinator, consult with your venue coordinator about ways to incorporate these types of lights before you purchase.

Photos courtesy of Velocity Art & Design

With the wedding season upon us and invitations being sent (just got one in the mail!), I thought it would be good to chat about unique online gift registries (check out my Sprout Home post). It’s always best to register in a few different places so that you’re guests can access one easily, however, some of the more unique registries are online and the gifts are shipped right to you! Plus, it’s a matter of sitting down in front of the computer clicking away, super convenient (sorry, you might miss out on the registry guns!). Velocity Art & Design provides all areas of the home and pets for a descent price. I especially love their organic bedding and outdoor accessories. Don’t forget to include your gift registry info in your invitations! (more…)

Photos courtesy of TutuCuteBaby, Ribbonwands, PrettyMe on Etsy

I’m all about thinking out of the box when it comes to weddings! The kids involved in your wedding add a special, whimsical, and fairytale-like feeling to the day. Let your flower girls shine with vibrant colors, patterns, and designs. Find a great fabric and pattern then have a dress sewn. Not only will it save on budget but adds such charm to the overall day. Plus – they can wear it again! Check out TutuCuteBaby for more tutu ideas and PrettyMe for the cutest skirts and dresses. From a photo standpoint, adding ‘props’ to the event adds greater dimension and personality to your wedding. These RibbonWands do just that! Boys and girls would go crazy running around your outdoor space with these – what incredible colors!

Photos: Edyta Szyszlo Photography

Spring weddings are under way and so is the heat and sun! Planning an outdoor wedding? A romantic way to beat the sun and help your guests stay cool is a parasol! Have a basket or container hold the parasols near the ceremony seats where guests can help themselves. Plus, if you want they make cute favors! I love how adding an accessory to your wedding day provides an extra touch of personality in the photographs. My favs can be found at The Asian Import, but they can be a little pricey. The cheapest I’ve seen are at Oriental Trading. For a personal touch, monogram your parasol.

Photos courtesy of Martha Stewart

Originally, I was on the hunt for Mother’s Day (May 11th) craft ideas because nothing says ‘I love you’ like a thoughtful gift. I found these 4 outstanding, diy projects that you could incorporate pet photos, wedding photos, baby photos or any photo for that matter! I think it’s important to give life to the images on cd and show them off. With everything being digital these days, seems that people forget to print photos! A reason why I offer an album and many other print materials with every wedding I book! I love the bottle-cap idea for napkins or place settings for a guest table. The tin cans would make personal wedding favors. Click for instructions: Personalized Magnets & Tins, Bottle-cap Magnets & Thumbtacks, Accordion Gallery, Pet Photo.

Photo courtesy of Nettleton Hollow

I’m super excited that I just happen to be organizing my bookmarks tab and found this site! I was looking for decorative materials such as wheat grass and dried fruits to decorate my apartment with when I first moved to Chicago. Not only is this a great site for home decor but think of all the possibilities of floral design for your wedding! Many centerpieces and escort card tables incorporate these organic sculptures for added height and dimension. The site includes branches, fruits/pods, foliage, flowers and grasses – Nettleton Hollow.

Photos: Edyta Szyszlo Photography

It finally feels like spring here in Chicago!! And what could be better then sipping on a fresh cocktail in the mid afternoon…oh wait, I know cocktail hour! Your wedding’s cocktail hour sets the stage for a night of celebration. You want to impress while still keeping it simple and elegant. Tips, ideas, and you guessed it….drink recipes! (more…)

Photos: Edyta Szyszlo Photography

Did you know that the word ’boutonniere’ comes from the word ‘button’ in French? Little tid bit for ya! Ode to the bout…I’m not sure if trends have really come on gone with boutonnieres (well ok, baby’s breath is pretty scarce these days), however, the past couple years these mini bouquets have gotten pretty creative! Choose the boutonniere in the same fashion as you would the bouquet, but allow your groom to be involved in the process. Think about your wedding theme, colors, decor, color of his tux or suit and functionality. Boutonnieres tend to take more of a beating throughout the wedding day so be sure to consult with your florist when picking a style. Don’t forget the bout is worn on the left jacket lapel. Also, I highly recommend having your florist show you how to put one on in case there’s a time crunch on the wedding day. Two florists worth checking out for unique designs: Bay Area – Passiflora Designs & Chicago – Hello Darling. Check out more creative bouts! (more…)

Photos courtesy of Thayer Allyson Gowdy from Nicolette Camille Floral Design

While checking out one of my favorite design blogs (Design Sponge), I came across a mentioning of a wonderful florist in the NYC area named Nicolette Camille. I believe she’s located around the Brooklyn area but from some of the comments on Design Sponge, she works in the tri-state area. If you are planning a wedding in the northeast and love whimsical, organic arrangements – check her out! Her use of color and unique flowers is absolutely perfect! I love it! Did I mention I adore Thayer’s work as well….

Photos courtesy of Martha Stewart

April 22 is Earth Day! I thought it would be informative to share some eco-friendly ideas to help make your wedding day as green as can be! Many articles are saying that this is a trend, but I hope that these pointers can become a permanent choice in helping our environment – wedding or not. In my own digital photography workflow, I try to minimize as much paper as possible by communicating through email. My proofs are viewed only online, as well as the album proofs. All my ink cartridges are recycled, and I try to use reusable/recyclable papers and packing materials. Any bit helps! Check out ways you can help! (more…)