Weddings, Etc.: Creative Guest Book Alternatives

Confession... I don't like guest books. Guests don't like them (I know I'm not the only one here!) and couples just tuck them away on a bookshelf or in a box labeled "Wedding Stuff." Well, that isn't the case any longer. Guest books are no longer just books but can be pieces of art and decor for your home and I couldn't be happier to bring you a few of my favorite guest book alternatives for this edition of Weddings, Etc.

Type It, The Old Fashioned Way... If your middle name should be vintage, than your guest book should be a typewriter. A vintage typewriter that is. Etsy is brimming with them and vintage aficionados have begun to put these near extinct type tools to work at their weddings. Not only does it make a great prop, but if you find a working one (see these Etsy gems below), guests can type their message for a unique way to send their well wishes.

{From Left: Typewriter Guest Book Photo by Olivia Leigh Photographie via Ruffled, Manual Typewriter by Thrifty Lucy via Etsy, Corona Typewriter by Old World Order via Etsy}

Paint It... I saw this next idea in Modern Bride a few years ago and it's probably my favorite idea on here, especially if your a creative couple. For this fascinating alternative, your guests won't write their well wishes on paper, but rather collectively contribute to a painting, each painting a square on a gridded image. This is so fun for a cocktail hour activity and makes a great piece to hang in your home post-nuptials. Artistically arrange the paintbrushes and provided fun paint colors, like these eco-friendly options from The Bees Knees.

{From Left: Guest Paint Project via One Love Photo, Paint Brush Display via Apartment Therapy, Eco-Friendly Paint by The Bees Knees}

Write It, With A Twist... If you still like the idea of a guest book then consider doing this: replace the traditional book with a coffee table book. Let me explain... Purchase a coffee table book on a topic you and your fiance like, see a few suggestions below, and have your guests sign inside the cover. Then you have an interesting book to place in your living room, rather than a small one nobody will be looking to pick up.

{From Left: Vanity Fair: The Portraits: A Century of Iconic Images, Journeys of a Lifetime: 500 of the World's Greatest Trips, A Passion for Blue and White, Italy From Above}

DIY It... Not interested in those I pictured above? Well here's a few little DIY projects (and other ideas) that can also work fantastically for remembering the loved ones you shared your celebration with. Wedding wish trees are very popular right now. Try this DIY wedding wish tree  or this twist on one from Lovli Day. Martha Stewart offered an idea that isn't so much a guest book, but an interactive way for guests to remember and reveal when they first met you by placing flags (with their names) on the year you were first introduced. 

And this last idea (far right) is very different, a little pricier, but can act as a memory that hangs somewhere besides your wall. It's a chandelier from Pottery Barn, that comes with just the bare bones-- and 35 clips. The purpose? They suggest hanging photographs or holiday cards, but I immediately thought "Guest Book." Why not provide different sized cards on different delicate papers (It comes with a few, but I recommend crafting your own) where your guests can say their thoughts and clip it to the chandelier. What a great conversation piece in an office, guest bedroom or even your dining room if your daring enough!

{DIY Manzanita Wish Tree via Wedding Chicks, Flag Conversation Starter via Martha Stewart, Wedding Tree by Lovli Day via Etsy, DIY Chandelier by Pottery Barn}

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Etsy Wedding: Blush, Champagne and Amber

My apologies for not posting a preview of today's Etsy Wedding yesterday but this one is really worth the wait! I have been so in love with the recent blush and gold trend and decided to take a little twist on it for today's inspiration. The theme here is romance, romance with a whimsical air about it.

I introduced you yesterday to Ouma and this fluffy pink gown really defines the mood of this concept. Flirty blush colored bridesmaid dresses and simple ties for the men, and wouldn't those amber-hued glasses make for fun pictures? Of course, I couldn't leave out a tutu for the flower girl by Lunatique and pastel roses from Your Fairy Tale Wedding for the bouquets. To top it off, the mineral makeup by Pure Natural Minerals, I own myself and it is a great product, economical and perfect for a bridal glow!

{1. Blush Tulle Gown by Ouma, 2. Silk Flower Necklace by Twigs & Honey, 3. Vintage Amber Eyeglasses by I Found Gallery, 4. Flower Girl Tutu by Lunatique, 5. Pink Bridesmaid Dress by Claire La Faye, 6. Ring Bearer Pillow by Emici Bridal, 7. Ties by Cyberoptix Tie Lab, 8. Rose Bouquet by Your Fairy Tale Wedding, 9. Mini Foundation Set by Pure Natural Minerals}

My favorite part of this inspiration board is the accent of amber. As you can probably see by now, I adore mixing and matching small vases of different heights to form a dramatic tablescape... and the best part is your guests can actually see each other across the table with arrangements of this style! These amber jars are no exception: combine several jars, bottles and vases and fill them with roses and whimsical ribbon flowers by ffflowers. Hang champagne PartyPoms over the dining area or over your dessert bar for an added layer of drama. Favors could be blush scented soap or jars of root beer apple jelly, or a mix of both! Just remember, romance, romance, romance!

{1. Vintage Amber Glass Apothecary Jar by Sweet Love Vintage, 2. Champagne Fluffy Flowers by ffflowers, 3. Bag of Tatter by Old Crow Farm, 4. Blush Natural Bar Soap by Fairy Bubbles, 5. Amber Jar by Haven Vintage, 6. Rose Place Cards by Timeless Paper, 7. Organza Flower Appliques by JujaCrafts, 8. Shelf by Painted Cottages, 9. Root Beer Apple Jelly by Bovine Bubbles and Hogwash, 10. Beige Pom by PartyPoms, 11. Photo by f2images}

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

As Seen on Etsy: Ouma

I'm am at a loss for words to describe how out of this world this next Etsy vendor is! Two weeks ago, I confessed my adoration for tutus (I danced for 10 years, can you blame me?) and for using them as flower girl attire. WELL! I have since found the grown-up version of these delicious tulle concoctions... permission to squeal... and they are simply jaw-dropping. Allow me to present.. Ouma.

Monique, the creator of Ouma, constructs divine custom tulle skirts and dresses, perfect for a bride or her wedding party. She uses all sorts of pastel hues and, of course, classic white and I could just gush about these gowns all day. But the pictures really say it all, so take a look and be sure to check out her Etsy shop by clicking here.

{All photos taken by Ouma's fabulous photgraphers: Steph De Saga, Galaxie Andrews and Andrew Coppola and found on Etsy}

The stunning full-length, blush colored gown (Bottom Left) will be a focal point of tomorrow's Etsy Wedding... check back later for a preview! Think romance!

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Color Inspiration: Eggplant, Plum, Charcoal and Gray

I may not be a fan of the winter season but it certainly makes for gorgeous weddings! So today I'm bringing you inspiration for a winter wedding of purples and grays. That's right, sometimes it's better to stick to just two colors (especially if your intimidated by numerous hues!) and use varying shades of them. Some of the most beautiful weddings have a simple palette, and this concept could be one of them! Behold, a glamourous and sophisticated winter affair!

My favorite part of this entire inspiration board is the glen plaid groom's jacket with the eye popping plum tie, in fact that look is responsible for this entire concept (Shh!)! Then men I imagine working these ensembles like to have a lot of fun (see the mismatched socks and converse sneakers) while the women error more on the sophisticated side. Opposites attract, no? I adore this deep, dark eggplant calla lilies and what better for a winter wedding then fingerless gloves with fun fur pom poms!

 {1. Bridal Party Dresses Shot by Sarah K. Chen via Wedding Chicks, 2. Groom Ensemble Shot by Susan Stripling via Green Wedding Shoes, 3. Bouquet by JL Designs, 4. Crochet Necklace by Anthropologie, 5. Satin Silver Bracelet by Anthropologie, 6. Purple Rose Headband by Anthropologie, 7. Men's Socks & Shoes Shot by Sarah K. Chen via Southern Weddings, 8. Ring Bearer Ensemble Shot by Stephanie Williams Photography, 9. Fingerless Crocheted Gloves by Sara Lagace via Etsy}  

This table set up by JL Designs (can you tell I'm a huge fan?) with gray linens, playful eggplant pillows and glamourous white leather chairs... what's not to like? Fill sparkling silver vases with more of those near-black calla lilies and mix it up with purple glass votive candle holders, and bring in the "fun" element with a few funky fabric branches. The motto of this wedding: Eat, drink and be glamourous.

{1. Purple & Gray Glass Candle Holders via Apartment Therapy, 2. Table Set Up by JL Designs, 3. Purple Yearbook Inspiration Shot by Boutwell Studio via Wedding Chicks, 4. Ring Pillow by Evie S. via Etsy, 5. Purple Peony Wedding Invitation by Pink Lily Press via Etsy, 6. Wedding Cake by Sweet & Saucy, 7. Metal Vase by Anthropologie, 8. Fabric Branches by Jane Joss via Etsy, 9. Gray Sideboard via Desire to Inspire}

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Color Inspiration Preview: Eggplant, Plum, Charcoal and Gray

Here's a quick look at what's coming up tomorrow! Shades of purple and gray fit for a winter affair!

Check back tomorrow for the full scoop on this color palette!

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Notables: "Washingtonian Bride & Groom: Unveiled"

Hello all! I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend, I know I did! Yesterday, I had the pleasure of attending Washingtonian Bride & Groom: Unveiled, a wonderful wedding showcase here in Washington, DC. The event was fantastic, great food, great drinks, and best of all, great people! So I decided, what could be better for this week's Notables than to introduce you to some of the amazing vendors I met and provide a little wrap-up of all the event's festivities!

Below is a collage of my photo's from the event, please excuse the poor Blackberry-quality photos (it's certainly no iPhone!). I spent a lot of time in the Hitched suite at the event. Hitched is a fabulous bridal salon in the Georgetown that carries some of the best bridal gowns you can find and they hosted some of my favorite DC vendors for the event! Hitched provided the gowns and Maria from Ritzy Bee designed too-stunning-for-words tablescapes around them! Below is my favorite- I couldn't handle my excitement over the bird's nest chargers and the stationery by Simplesong Design. I was also lucky enough to meet photographer Kate Headley (see her stunning photo's below!) and stop by the Design Cuisine champagne bar. The picture of the drink below doesn't even do this delicious champagne cocktail justice: POM, orange juice, peach puree and fresh mint leaves, topped with prosecco!

Amsale herself was at the event to present the Kenneth Pool spring 2010 collection and Ted Gibson (the hairstylist on What Not to Wear and the man responsible for Kate Gosselin's new locks) was there to introduce her, along with Washingtonian Bride & Groom's editor-in-chief, Jill Hudson Neal.

Now take a look at the work by my favorite vendor's of the event!

Maria at Ritzy Bee, a DC event planning company, has a style that I envy... and it's all about the details. She also has one of the top wedding blogs (in my opinion!) with segments such as Vintage Wednesdays (are you excited yet??)

Kate Headley is a fine art wedding photographer who's work was recently chosen as the cover image of the Washingtonian Bride & Groom's newest issue! I picked a few of my favorite shots she's snapped, but be sure check out her blog for the rest!

The Dandelion Patch is a custom stationery company who's style really appealed to me. Every invitation starts from a blank piece of paper, so it certainly is one of a kind and they offer numerous different methods and options!

I've been a fan of Love Life Images for awhile now and was thrilled to meet the photogs behind the unbelievable emotion-capturing pictures (and those great photo booths!). Here's a few of my favorite black and white images from them!

And last but not least is green wedding guru Katie Martin, who's recently launched an online eco-friendly wedding magazine, Eco-Beautiful Weddings. It's a beautiful publication, and she also runs an event planning and floral design company, Elegance & Simplicity, which is environmentally sound as well! Look for more from this e-zine when I host an "Eco-Friendly" week here on Notable Inspiration (details to follow!)

Well, that's a wrap! The Washingtonian sure knows how to throw a great party! It was great putting some faces to the names of companies that I admire and I hope you check out their websites (and blogs!) to learn more!

Coming up later, a preview of tomorrow's eggplant and charcoal color inspiration! Stay tuned!

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Translation, Weddings: Fuchsia, Periwinkle, White & Gold

I'm trying a little something new here today, courtesy of my late night-overactive mind. I use a ton of interior design inspiration for my wedding inspiration boards but I thought today I would show exactly how to translate simple elements of beautiful interiors into a cohesive wedding concept in my new series, "Translation, Weddings." I want all your thoughts on this idea! Do you like it, not like, seen it before, suggestions for room inspiration? Like I said, I thought of it about 12 hours ago so it's a work in progress!

For the first round, I found this scrumptious fuchsia and periwinkle living room full of rich textures and great white and gold accents! It provided so many great translations for wedding elements so let me walk you through a few of them! I adore the floor-to-ceiling curtains in this room and immediately thought of a delicately gathered periwinkle bridesmaid dress-- Vera Wang came to the rescue with this one. I took the cue from the fireplace's multiple layers for an idea for a little treat- white on white macaroons- topped with a sliver of gold a la the pillows and chair trim. The prints from the rug and chairs provided for the groomsmen's ties and place cards. The plush plush couches have so many tones of periwinkle, just like this bouquet and of course the pop of fuchsia in those fabulous ottomans would be a great way to brighten the invitations and the tablescape!

Click the Image to Enlarge!

{Inspirational Room via Gathering Spriggs, 1. Vera Wang Bridesmaid Dress 2. Bottle Collection by Sara Paloma via Etsy, 3. White Macaroons via Ritzy Bee, 4. White Dining Chair by Signature Event Rentals, 5. Purple Paisley Tie by Tie One On via Etsy, 6. & 7. Invitations and Place Cards by CECI New York  8. Periwinkle Bouquet via Martha Stewart Weddings, 9. Fuchsia Floral Photo by Punam Bean via Once Wed}

Interior design and weddings aren't all that different- they act as spaces filled with colors and items that reflect you- you just happen to live in one of them and say "I do" at the other! I hope you enjoyed this, I had a ton of fun picking apart this fantastic space! Expect more Translation, Weddings in the future!

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Etsy Wedding: Wasabi Green, Orange Peel, Smokey Gray and Black Onyx

It's been a little dreary around the country lately, even sunny LA is getting pelted with rain! So I figured I'd brighten up everyone's day a little with this Etsy Wedding's bold color palette. I've always been intrigued by an orange and green color palette, and I balanced this one with neutral gray and a smidgen of black. The bridal party attire is simple, like the adorable charcoal flower girl dress from FaithWorks4U, but accented with bold accessories. I love the use of pheasant and guinea feathers in weddings and found some fantastic vendors offering hair pieces, boutonnieres and bouquets incorporating them (in bright orange and wasabi green no less!).

{1. Pheasant Boutonniere by Rationale, 2. Ring Bearer Pillow by PassionArte, 3. Vintage Flats by Killinger&Frogg, 4. Paisley Children's Tie by Trendy Tikes, 5. Repurposed Vintage Dress by Clementiny Clothing, 6. Black Lace Sash by Little White Dresser, 7. Feather Hairclip by YJ Design, 8. Guinea Feather Bouquet by Ardesign, 9. Charcoal Flower Girl Dress by FaithWorks4U}

The reception concept I designed leans towards a different part of nature- using branches and leaves in the decor to add rich texture to the simple bridal attire. The vintage instrument case would make a great backdrop for a cake display, or allow guests to write one-line wishes on tiny notecards to toss into it. And, to top it all off, the brittle pictured isn't any ordinary treat- it's Bon Bon Brittle's green tea brittle! Great color and a unique concept makes for a perfect favor!

{1. Wood Branch Centerpiece by Eco-Lectic Events, 2. Hand Cut Elm Leaves by Jennifer Aitchison, 3. Steel Memo Board by Ekohdesign, 4. Tapioca Wood and Moss Centerpiece by Eco-Lectic Events, 5. Gift Tags by Dingbat Press, 6. Green Tea Brittle by Bon Bon Britle, 7. Guest Book Box by Cut the Cake Designs, 8. Gray Side Table by Karli Hearron, 9. Gray Napkins by Margotbianca, 10. Vintage Instrument Case by Two Art Directors and a Photographer}

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Etsy Wedding Preview: Wasabi Green, Orange Peel, Smokey Gray and Black Onyx

Tomorrow's Etsy Wedding is going to a bright one! Wasabi green and orange peel-orange pheasant feathers and leaves take stand in this concept, complemented by a smokey gray and a touch of black. Come back tomorrow for the rest!

{Boutonniere by Rationale} 

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

As Seen on Etsy: Two Art Directors and a Photographer

I'm more than excited to share this Etsy vendor with you today! Now, this vendor isn't one that specializes in handmade items, but rather vintage, one-of-a-kind found objects, meticulously selected from warehouses and estate sales. Two Art Directors and a Photographer is a team of three people (couldn't tell by the name?) who spend their free time picking out the best items that can make great additions to a wedding, for the right couple of course! Items like a vintage adding machine (Are you marrying an accountant?) or a vintage instrument case (Musician by day?) are incredible statement pieces to inspire conversation in your guests or even to use in a photo booth! The lot of vintage tickets would make intriguing place cards or favor labels. You must think outside the box to use these items, but like I said in Friday's Alfred Hitchcock post, sometimes you get the best results doing just that!

{1. Crested Salt and Pepper Shakers, 2. Vintage Milk Glass Spice Bottle, 3. Vintage Milk Glass Perfume Bottle, 4. Vintage Adding Machine, 5. Vintage Framed Photo, 6. Vintage Tickets, 7. Vintage Vanity Mirror, 8. Vintage Instrument Case, 9. Quilted Milk Glass Lamp}

{All Images Via Two Art Directors and a Photographer}

Coming up shortly, a preview of tomorrow's Etsy Wedding including the beautiful vintage instrument case above!

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Color Inspiration: Slate Blues, Mustard and Ivory

Week one at Notable Inspiration was filled with vintage, natural and romantic elements so I figured I would change things up a bit today for this week's Color Inspiration. Introducing: An affair that, to me, speaks of country club meets French Country meets a teeny touch of modern. Can you handle all that? If so, you could be in for a great, sophisticated affair with a classic country color palette- blues, in this case slate, mustard yellow and ivory.

I'm a bit head-over-heels for seersucker suits right now (Rumor has it that Club Monaco will be carrying them this spring), and this affair was PERFECT to throw them in. Blue seersucker with yellow pom flowers (officially called billy balls) and bouquets to match. Dark blue, hindering on the edge of navy, bridesmaid dresses (I adore the one pictured by Nostalgia) and a sweet, short wedding dress all with pops of mustard yellow- flats, clutches and all!

{1. Ruffled Bridesmaid Dress by Nostalgia via Etsy, 2. Flower Girl Dress via Simplesong, 3. Groom's Attire via Once Wed, 4. Bouquets shot by Stephanie Williams via Ruffled, 5. Bracelet by WristieLove via Gathering Spriggs, 6. Ring Via Wedding Bee, 7. Spectacle Necklace by Ruche, 8. Peep Toe Flats shot by Kate Headley, 9. Bride Look by Shana Faust via Simplesong}

The French Country comes out to star in the reception decor. Printed table cloths (the one from Anthropologie is ideal) topped with antique-inspired, painted yellow pails and candle holders, and what about hanging mismatched frames to showcase your place cards? This beautiful design by Sadie Olive can so easily be translated into a great place setting- printed napkins, slate blue chargers and French-inspired menu cards, all tied together and topped with a delicate sweetheart rose. Don't forget the dainty cupcakes for dessert-- check out The Nest to learn the recipe for the cupcakes pictured below! And who could resist the edition of French pastries as well? Bon Appétit!

{1. Frame Display by Christine Rudolph via Decor8, 2. Yarn Shot via Creature Comforts, 3. Yellow Pail via Apartment Therapy, 4. Tablecloth by Anthropolgie, 5. Desk Shot via Apartment Therapy, 6. Place Setting Shot by Sadie Olive via Lobster and Swan, 7. Yellow Candleholder by Anthropologie, 8. Cupcake Recipe via The Nest, 9. Invitations by Ruff House Art via Etsy, 10. Paris Shot via A View To}

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Color Inspiration Preview: Slate Blues Mustard and Ivory

Tomorrow's Color Inspiration is my interpretation of a modern twist on French Country. It's a beautiful color palette of shades of slate blue, mustard (one of my all time favorite colors!) and ivory. The bridal party I imagine is outfitted in modern attire- think seersucker, ruffles and peep-toe flats- dining and celebrating in a country setting- pails, candlesticks and all! I know you are all going to love it, so make sure to check back tomorrow!

{Bridal Look via Simplesong}

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Notables: Spice Up Your Wedding

I was browsing the wedding-web world this weekend when I saw THIS utterly, drop dead gorgeous, can't even handle it, post on Ruffled. What really caught my eye… the tables (see center picture below) were not numbered, but rather each given a different name of a spice. Whether you’re a couple of foodies or just trying to incorporate a part of your culture, using spices in your wedding can accomplish either (or both!), never mind giving you a built in, sure-to-be-stunning color palette! So I started searching for and brainstorming different ways to incorporate these cooking essentials into your wedding and I have found some great ideas to share with you all today!

Labeling each table with a different spice is just genius! On the table cards you can list common recipes the spice is used in and give each guest a different recipe as well as the spice itself. Check out this DIY spice favor from Style Me Pretty (Picture 1) for an economical way to treat your guests. What about filling great custom spice jars, like these from Annie TwoBraids (3), with flowers in natural hues like browns, reds and mustards. Rather let your guests pick their spices? Set up a spice bar (2) and provide tiny tins or little baggies for your guests to pick and choose based on their palettes! Other ways to use spices… they make great decoration (6) and you can even create your monogram with salt and pepper, like Martha did here (5).

Need more inspiration? If you happen to live in some of the Southern states, you can check the Spice and Tea Exchange. I visited the Boca Raton location over the Holiday’s and it’s a beautiful store complete with knowledgeable staff where you can smell all the spices as you please.

{1.  DIY Spice Favors via Style Me Pretty, 2. Spice Bar via Edyta Szyszlo, 3. Spice Jars by Annie Two Birds via Etsy, 4. Spice Table Cards Photo by Olivia Leigh Photographie via Ruffled, 5. Monogramed Seasonings via Martha Stewart Weddings, 6. Spice Decor via Decor8, 7. The Spice and Tea Exchange}

I know it’s not As Seen on Etsy day BUT I couldn’t resist showcasing this little gem I found during my research. Purpose Design is a spice addict’s dream. You can mix and match to form your own delicious collection of spices or you can pick one of their pre-matched spice collections, many of which are themed by country. So if you are just looking to incorporate your culture into your big day you can do so with Italian, Indian, French and more blends!

{Spice Themes, Row 1: Italian, Moroccan, Mexican... Row 2: Indian, Thai, French}

All images via Purpose Design

P.S. They even do personalized wedding favors!

Stay tuned for a preview of tomorrow's color inspiration!

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Weddings, Etc: An Alfred Hitchcock Engagement Session

As Notable Inspiration is in it’s beginning stages I don’t often have a jaw-dropping engagement session to share with you all, but I figured I’d start things off with a bang! This shoot by Steve DePino is inspired by none other than Alfred Hitchock, no not your typical first thought when you think of a photo shoot announcing your engagement but as you can see here, sometimes stepping outside the box sometimes pays off (A LOT!). So behold couple Jen & Matt’s stunning photos that really capture their personalities.

Wondering how they chose the theme? Here’s a little peak behind-the-scenes from Jen, the bride-to-be…

Matt and I went for a consultation at Steve's home in Guilford, CT and we were all basically trying to get to know each other. Steve wanted to know what our interests and personalities were like, and so I said that we love anything vintage and that I love old horror films (among a bunch of other things!). So he then said, "Are you into Hitchcock at all?" and of course I said ABSOLUTELY! From there, we came up with the idea to do a Hitchcock-themed engagement shoot.

Matt and I sought out some vintage-esque attire and Steve provided some props (like a smoke machine, black crows from a Halloween sale, etc). For the shoot, we shot at locations such as Steve's home, an old abandoned train station, a huge field, a parking lot, among others. Steve was awesome - we got along with him so well as he seemed to be very much on our wave-length...style-wise, sense of humor, etc. We were so comfortable the entire time which made the experience that much more enjoyable and memorable!

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Etsy Wedding: Peach, Antique Ice Blue and Dark Teal

Welcome to Notable Inspiration’s very first Etsy Wedding, wedding inspiration created entirely from vintage and handmade items found on Etsy! As I mentioned in my welcome post, I am a big supporter of small businesses and handmade items and think they make great, unique additions to any wedding! Now on to the good stuff…

I absolutely adore this palette of pale peach, antique ice blue and deep, dark teal hues touched with a bit of bronze. It reminds me of a sophisticated ice cream social or a playful backyard tea party. I’m currently loving when flower girls are dressed in fluffy tutus (and what little girl doesn’t want to look like a ballerina?) and I can’t even begin to describe how unbelievable the embroidered Boheur necklace would look on a daring bride.

{1. Hand Embroidered Necklace by Bonheur, 2. Pearl Bracelet by Shanna Michele, 3. Garter by GarterLady, 4. Ring Bearer Pillow by HomeOfficeDeco, 5. Earrings by Three Wishes Studio, 6. Bouquet by CaitMarie27, 7. Bridesmaid Dress by Maisy Brown, 8. Origami Boutonniere by Lunatiger, 9. Newborn Tutu by Little Creek Boutique}

And what’s more perfect for this dream of a wedding then vintage glass jars in pale hues overflowing with delicate blossoms and accented with the amazing creations by Sparklepants Industries—paper flowers made of pages from old romance novels! If you can swing it, the sideboard from Knack would make a stunning dessert table and later a great piece in your home!

{1. Placecards by Chyrls Origami, 2. Magnolia Bloom Art Print by Urban Design, 3. Gourmet Peach Marshmallows by MiaMallows, 4. Ball Jar by Midwest Finds, 5. Antique Pharmaceutical Bottles by A Sundry Notion, 6. Vintage Floral Lace Trim by Sugar Pink Boutique, 7. Romance Novel Paper Flowers by A Sundry Notion, 8. Invitations by Shanon Medley, 9. Antique Monogramed Embroidery by Yebisu, 10. Sideboard by Knack}

If you are an Etsy vendor and think your creations would make a great addition to one of Notable Inspiration's Etsy Weddings, please email me at kellylanza@gmail.com!

COMING UP! I can't even contain my excitement for what I have to share with you tomorrow... an Alfred Hitchcock themed engagement session! It's truly amazing and I know you will all LOVE it. Check back tomorrow for this great "Weddings, Etc." installment!

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Etsy Wedding Preview: Peach, Antique Ice Blue, and Deep Teal

It's almost Etsy Wedding time! Here's a little peak of the dreamy color palette I have planned for tomorrow! Varying shades of peach and an antique ice blue are so playful and youthful, but I've balanced them with a dark, dark teal to keep this wedding concept sophisticated. And I may have thrown in a touch of bronze for a little glam too! I can't wait to show you all the boards tomorrow and to introduce you to all the great vendors I've found on Etsy!

{Dress by Maisy Brown}

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

As Seen on Etsy: MiaMallows

Dessert bars are common place at weddings nowadays (I don't have to tell you that!), filled with delectable custom desserts like French macarons and miniature cupcakes. But have you ever thought about gourmet marshmallows? No not the kind you slap between two graham crackers and call it a s’more, the kind that come in flavors like dulce de leche and pomegranate. Well you’re in luck! For Notable Inspiration’s first “As Seen on Etsy” feature, I’ve scouted out Etsy vendor MiaMallows, who offers nearly 30 different flavored marshmallows (that means you’re almost guaranteed to find one in your color palette!)! They are extra large too… does life get any better? Not only would they be great for a dessert bar, but what about packaging a few for a delicious favor? Or just serve them on the dance floor as your reception winds down, either way, they'll be irresistible to your guests!

{Flavors: Row 1- Coffee, Pineapple and Peach… Row 2- Vanilla and Coconut… Row 3- Pomegranate, Praline with Pecans and Cotton Candy}

P.S.- The peach MiaMallows will be making an encore in Notable Inspiration’s first Etsy Wedding tomorrow, Sneak Peak coming soon!

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Color Inspiration: Caramel, Taupe and Cream

I am SO excited to share my first Color Inspiration post with you all today! While I have a ton of color inspirations filled with pretty pastels and rich jewel tones, I couldn’t help but create this neutral palette for my first Tuesday post here at Notable Inspiration. This wedding concept is rich in texture with creams, taupes and caramel browns to complement. From the fabric bouquet by Milkpod Studio to the crocheted flower girl dresses, the bridal party at this celebration would remain casual, but chic. Rose and pearl accents for the bride and her maids and simple khaki suits, sans tie, for the men. And of course, my favorite, a ring bearer bowl by Paloma’s Nest to round out a natural wonderland.

{1. Bouquet by Milkpod Studio via Etsy, 2. Dress by Elizabeth Dye, 3. Necklace by J.Crew, 4. Flats by Anthropologie, 5. Bracelet by J.Crew, 6. Ring Bearer Bowl by Paloma's Nest via Etsy, 7. DIY Belt by Heart of Light via 100 Layer Cake, 8. Flower Girl Dresses via Style Unveiled, 9. Groomsmen Photo by Justin Marantz via Style Me Pretty}

The reception is where the textures in this palette really shine. A burlap runner flanked by the most fantastic grapewood arrangements by JL Designs. I absolutely adore the vintage, floral chandelier which would make a great statement over a cream hued dessert bar. Oh, and don’t forget the favors, delicately wrapped with DIY burlap and fabric flowers.

{1. Burlap Table Runner by xowyo via Etsy, 2. Dessert Table by Amy Atlas, 3. Tart via Victoria Pearson, 4. DIY Gift Wrap by Grey Likes Weddings via Style Me Pretty, 5. & 6. Grapewood Floral Arrangements by JL Designs, 7. Display Photo via This is Glamorous, 8. Vintage Metal Chandelier via Gardenhouse, 9. Tabletop Accessories via Hostess with the Mostess, 10. Tree Branch Mirror via Gardenhouse}

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly

Color Inspiration Preview: Caramel, Taupe and Cream

Sibella Court (see below) served as my inspiration for the first Color Inspiration concept I'm going to share with you! I chose a neutral palette of cream, taupe and muted caramel and spiced it up with an abundance of rich textures like raw oak woods, painted branches, natural burlap and shimmering pearls. Here's a sneak peak of what's to come, make sure to check back tomorrow for both bridal party and decor inspiration!

Aspiring to Inspire,

Kelly