Inspiration, revisited

This work space and mood board have given me the nudge to start organizing my materials (books - art supplies - photos - tech accessories - jars of pencils - magazine clippings - etc) into a refined work space. We happen to have a room downstairs that would be perfect; however, it has become that room. The room where things without a home, find a home. I'm certain that B. will be rather thrilled to hear about my plans as my things have taken over the better part of our main floor.

Do you have a space or a room that you create within? Do you have a mood/ inspiration board? Is it electronic or tangible?

If you're interested... check out the DIY for putting this mood board together (so easy) + another inspiration board.

Photo by Thorsten Becker via decor8.

Inspiration, etc.

I have been dreaming of creating myself an inspiration board as of late. The likes of this one, will do nicely.


I love this desk and everything on it.

Do you have an inspiration space/ place/ board? How is it organized? Where is it?


Photo by Sara Svenningsrud via Residence + Scandinavian Chic.

Boardwalk Empire NYE Party: the inspiration

B and I are infatuated with HBO's Boardwalk Empire and - since ten of our fantastic friends from Vancouver (and two fabulous friends from Kamloops) agreed to visit for NYE - we thought it would make the perfect party theme. Cue the champagne, feathers, and strings of pearls, (fake) guns, suspenders, and bow ties. The night was perfect and the company, top notch.

Photos: top, middle + bottom.

I will be sharing more details from the party later this week but here is the inspiration board I used to prepare for the main event.


Since the styles of the 1920's have made a comeback as of late, gathering inspiration was much easier than I had anticipated. I focused on pieces that heightened the vintage charms: paper chains, tarnished silver and brass, antique candle holders, and lots of champagne flutes! As the clock struck midnight we played with sparklers and confetti rockets in the snow. What better way to ring in 2011?


Stay tuned for the party...



Photos: top row - headband, sparkler, paper chains; second row - Charleston dancers, chandelier via High-Heeled Foot in the Door, party; third row - clock, candelabra photo by Jose Villa, dresses; bottom row - champagne glasses & bottle, gangsters.

A Barnhouse Wedding - Minus the Barn

My friends Samantha and Brock are planning a fall 2011 wedding on Granville Island in Vancouver. The couple envisions a barnhouse-styled wedding with elements that are both classic and whimsy. Suffice it to say I was a little excited to put some inspiration together for them. Below, I've broken down some of my favourite barnhouse weddings into details that can be executed anywhere: barnhouse or otherwise.

Seating:

Whether guests are organized in large long tables or smaller round ones, I love the intimacy evoked by a barn wedding. The rustic details and simple table decor enable guests to relax and enjoy a "family-style" reception.

Details: I adore that burlap runner; it would be stunning on either a rectangle or round table. To accentuate to the elegant-yet-rustic decor, skip chair covers and rent chairs that stand on their own. The paper lanterns add a playful touch of whimsy and work as a contemporary addition to classic details. The place settings are best left simple; there is no need to overdo tabletop details for this style of wedding.

Photos (top - bottom): W. Scott Chester via Once Wed, Landon Jacob via Southern Weddings, Sarah Yates Photography via Once Wed

Decor:

Alright. There are many, many, (many!) creative ways of incorporating "barn" style into an event. Below are several that I particularly enjoy; however, get ready to see much more on this one in the coming months.

Details: The vintage candelabras offer a touch of elegance against the backdrop of rustic details (I think this one is my favourite). Candlelight defiantly creates the perfect romantic atmosphere. I LOVE the old repurposed door used here as a welcome/ escort card display; however, it's safe to say I'd love an old door used in almost any context. The final two examples are clever and cost effective ways of displaying table numbers - vintage house numbers are perfection. Rustic & vintage lanterns are the perfect pairing with the elegant candelabras and I really like the idea of bringing "outdoor" elements (like this wind dial) in doors.

Photos (clockwise from left): Sarah Yates Photography via Once Wed, Beaux Arts Photographie via Once Wed, Sarah Yates Photography, Leigh Miller via Once Wed, and Braedon Photography via Once Wed.

Venue:

It is quite easy to style a barnhouse wedding in venue that is not a barn. By playing off the natural elements of the existing venue, adding strategically placed rustic details and candlelight to evoke romance, a classic barn wedding is within your reach. These photographs depict the overall effect: from the smallest detail to the grandest scale.

Details: The use of apothecary and mason jars in home and wedding decor is undeniably en vouge which makes it very easy to accumulate a pretty collection of mismatched jars. Hint: If you choose a linking factor to the "type" of jar you're looking for (for example, white milk glass) you can quickly assemble a uniquely charming collection. On a grander scale, the lighting as depicted below, is clearly of utmost importance. Chandeliers and paper lanterns add the final touch, linking the classic with the whimsy.

Photos (left - right): Braedon Photography via Once Wed, Sarah Yates Photography via Once Wed, and Beaux Arts Photographie via Once Wed.


Voila!




Click photos to enlarge.

An Inspiration Board for Jaime, black white + plum

{Photo Credits, clockwise from top left: Macaroon Favour, Bridal Bouquet via here, Hugo suit, Tablescape, Feather Boutonniere via here, Wine Bottle Table Numbers via here, Bridal Party via here, cake, Chalkboard Seating Arrangement, Chandelier, Louboutins}. Click to enlarge.


I am quite pleased to - finally - post Jaime and Mike's inspiration board (apologies for the delay, Jaim). The couple is dreaming of a classic and polished Spring wedding; I think this pretty palette of black, white, and deep plum works beautifully.

Jaime very much likes the idea of a black and white palette with pops of plum (versus than having a "purple wedding"). To accentuate their bold palette, I created this inspiration board out of classic and romantic details complementing the style and season of their wedding.

Jaime: I hope this gives you an idea of where this colour palette can take you. I'm eager to hear what you think of this interpretation. xo.

Long Weekend Love

Happy Easter!

I'm thoroughly enjoying my Vancouver-long-weekend and embracing every moment of family & friend (& John) time. I hope you have all enjoyed your long weekends and have had the chance to relax with the important people in your life.

{Easter inspiration board by Lucky Me! via BridalHood}

I'm loving this Spring board: it's so fun.

What are you up to this weekend, my friends?

A Mountie Wedding, Revisited

I've had this colour palette up my sleeve for a while now. I didn't want to post an inspiration board until I could ensure a wedding in blue, white, and red without it looking 'red, white, & blue.' I love the romantic and rustic elements of this board and the casual elements that juxtapose the formality of the serge. Perfect for a Spring or Summer wedding, the elements of this board can easily translate to accommodate a couple's personal style.
Now, the details...

Clockwise from top left: Gorgeous white poppy bouquet with a hint of blue in the center; delicious cheese table; beautiful bride in a vintage car; fun paper lanterns; gorgeous bride + mountie shot {via here}; yummy mini cupcakes; simple place setting; adorable hair pin; lovely welcome table {& here}; and pretty bridesmaid dress.

Shades of Wine

It was love at first sight when I saw November’s issue of Vogue.

{via style.com}

Several of my favourite actresses grace this cover, donning gowns in a luxurious and rich colour palette: shades of wine.

This amazing cover shoot – captured by the legendary Annie Leibovitz - inspired the following inspiration board:



Photo Credits:
Top Row, L-R: A delicious brie recipe from Canadian House & Home, gorgeous Big Bottle Wine Hurricanes from Napa Style via Southern Weddings, Christian Lacroix gown from the Spring 2006 Couture collection via Style.com, BOSS "Cary Grant" tuxedo via Bloomingdales, & Magenta BM Dress by Jenny Yoo. Middle Row, L-R: Vintage Swirls invitation in crimson by Wedding Paper Divas, gorgeous chandelier and dance floor via Style Me Pretty, & Ann Taylor Pave Ball Necklace. Bottom Row(s), L-R: The Paul Keller Orchestra via brides.com, Chianti via Martha, Valencia Headband via bungalow, sexy Nanette Lepore Sweetheart pumps for the bride via Piperlime, Hurricane Vases with tea lights via the knot, bridesmaid bouquets featuring red roses double as centerpieces for the head table via the knot, J. Crew silk taffeta bow monde dress in spiced wine, & overall Wedding ambiance via brides.com.

This palette can be described by the same characteristics of a good red wine: bold, balanced, rich, and racy. (That’s right, I said racy). The luxurious mood of this affair is characterized by dramatic-yet-elegant details in shades of wine with touches of gold and black. This palette would be perfect for a wedding or engagement party in the Autumn and Winter months and could easily inspire a lavish holiday party.

I envision a candle lit reception, exemplified by dangling chandeliers, with a jazz band providing the soundtrack. Rich cheeses (like the Baked Brie with Fig Crown featured here) and tapas perfectly paired with glasses of Merlot will greet guests as they arrive. The bridal party will don gowns in the various shades of wine, from rich magenta to deep plum. The bridal attire glamorous, characterized by layers of tulle and both romantic (like this gorgeous headband from one of my favourite etsy shops, bungalow and this Ann Taylor Necklace) and bold (see: these shoes) accents. The groom and groomsmen will dress in classically cut suits. A dinner rich in taste and variety will be presented by servers in crisp white shirts with smart black vests. The evening will wind down with a midnight dessert buffet and a toast with sparkling wine and will conclude with the couple's last dance:
I'll be seeing you.

Santé!

A [third] Mountie Wedding

For the third installment of Mountie Inspiration boards, I chose to explore a Chocolate Brown and Yellow palette with a hit of Red: the Serge.

This palette depicts a summer wedding that is both rustic and elegant. Sunflowers are at the heart of this board, providing warmth and country charm, while the bridal party fashions are both polished and glamorous. I love the result of the amalgamation of rustic elegance. This one is my most favorite, yet.



Wedding Plan, Clockwise from Top Left:

• I love the effect of the yellow and red petals against the white aisle runner [via Brides]. So rustic; so romantic. How amazing would the red serge look at the end of this aisle? I swoon.


• It comes at no surprise that I have borrowed from this gorgeous wedding once again [via Thankful]. I am officially naming them the Mountie Wedding Poster Couple. I adore their wedding album.


• These programs [via We Met in a Bar] would coordinate so well with our rustic ceremony.


• As would this adorable ring pillow [via the knot].


• These rustic [and cost efficient] favors boxes [via Jean M] would be perfect for our Cookie Bar [see below].


• I'm a huge fan of the clutches in Red Ruby Rose's shop. This one would be a great gift for bridesmaids: it would match their dresses and bouquets perfectly.


• I'm all for wedding couples creating a Signature Drink. It's a great conversation starter and so great for cocktail hours. A twist on a classic summer cocktail like the mojito [or the margarita] would be fitting for this outdoor wedding [via Martha].


• The Cookie Bar [via {cypress and oak}]! I love this idea. Guests will be offered cookies [as a midnight treat or as favors]. I've also seen this done with an ice cream bar which [to me] sounds like heaven.


• Here is my token shoe shot: isn't this photo fabulous? Golden Yellow shoes would add a subtle punch of colour to the bride's look. [Photo by Susan Stripling via The Blissful Bride].


• The bridesmaids' sunflower bouquets will double as centerpieces [via Brides]. Large glass vases can house these gorgeous bouquets during the reception, providing added warmth to the decor.


• One of my favorite Thread dresses: Gabrielle-Mini would be perfect for summer bridesmaids.


• A classic shot of the boots and stripes [taken by GJ Photography in January at B's Graduation].


• The yellow daisies and mums of this centerpiece [via the knot]are so vibrant against the chocolate brown vases. I love the effect of clustering smaller vases.


• Being an outdoor wedding, it would be quite easy to include your dog. This photograph captures a moment that is so precious. [Photo by John & Joseph Photography via snippet & ink].

. . .

I hope you have enjoyed this board. Are there any suggestions for future colour palettes? [I'm slowly working on a red-white-and-blue number that I'm quite excited about].

Another Mountie Wedding.

Due to the success of the last Mountie Wedding board, I decided to create another in a slightly different colour scheme for my Mountie Bride-to-be and the many others out there. [Note: I am enjoying this feature and plan to assemble more in alternate Mountie colour palettes]. Stay tuned...

. . .
Today's board centers around Charcoal and White with hits of Red to compliment -but not overwhelm- the classic Serge. The result is an understated yet elegant collaboration of tradition & grace. Enjoy.




Inspiration, clockwise from Top Left:

• A lovey red Valentino Patent Pump to add a punch of colour.


• A beautiful Jim Hjelm gown with grey sash and lace shrug.


• I love this adorable ring bearer pillow made of felt by Etsy Seller HeartFelted.


• J.Crew is known for their lovely bridesmaid dresses. This one is no exception. I love that bridesmaids can easily wear it again. It would look lovely with white bridesmaid bouquets.


• You can't go wrong with iced tea and lemonade at an outdoor reception. [Photo Snippet and Ink courtesy of Union Photography].


• Personalized Detail: I love this candle holder found in peartreeri's Etsy shop as it could hold grey pebbles from both shores of Canada [East Coast and West Coast] at the ceremony in Central Canada. This detail brings both sides of your families together in a beautiful arrangement. How Sweet?


• This idea for Escort Cards would be perfect for the outdoor reception. I love the clothes peg embellishment.


• What is better than love love love? This scripture is commonly read during wedding ceremonies and works perfectly on these lovey cards by storybymia. [Possibly used for thank you cards or shower invitations]?


• An outdoor reception begs for fun table linens. I enjoy the stripes featured on this table found via Tastefully Entertaining.


• Of course, I couldn't create a Mountie Inspiration Board without including the inspiring and lovely shots found on Thankful. This shot has to be one of the most beautiful {and one of my most favorite} wedding photos ever. Thanks for letting us be inspired by your lovely wedding!


• These simple centerpieces would be easy to assemble. The cylinder vases could also hold bridesmaid's bouquets during the reception.


• Personalized cocktails are very popular, however, I also like the idea of having a feature cocktail [like sparkling Shiraz punch] that corresponds with your colour scheme. You could include a framed copy of the drink recipe for your guests on the bar at the reception or copy it onto the back of their escort cards.


• Because of your outdoor reception I think it would be fun to set up a self-serve photo booth. Guests would be encouraged to take photos in front of a fun canvas [such as this one from Ikea]. [You could either hire a photographer or machine to capture these shots or guests could take them themselves]. The idea is everyone in attendance would be photographed for your album.


• Although we were dealing with subtle hits of red, the bridal bouquet is no place to skimp on colour. You will require a bouquet that pops like this beautiful mix of roses and calla lilies with a touch of Prairie grass.

Note: I will not pretend to be a Regina Wedding Expert, however the following vendors have a great reputation for working with Mounties and their Brides.

- GJ Photo captures Mountie Graduations and Weddings at Historical Depot.
- Little Birdie Bakery has made some amazing Mountie-inspired desserts. Check out their blog.

A Mountie Wedding.

Ever since my trip to Regina and viewing the beautiful wedding photos on Thankful I have had Mountie-inspired weddings on the brain.
{Please Note: before you ask... this is not a sneaky way of announcing my Mountie-inspired wedding}.

While I was recently talking-weddings with a friend {who also loves a Mountie} I jumped at the chance to create her an inspiration board just-for-fun.

If she and her honey were planning a wedding it may begin with the following inspiration board:


Colour Palette: Red, charcoal, and white with hits of caramel.

{Photo Credits - clockwise from top left}

• Red tulips with bear grass for bridesmaids in black or red dresses would make a dramatic statement.


• This rustic "Wedding this Way" sign would be fitting for your outdoor reception.


• Have you seen a Serge-clad couple so beautiful? Just lovely.


• Your ceremony venue: the chapel at RCMP training facility, Regina SASK.


• The cutest 'reminder': an "i love you" sign.


• The oldest building in Regina.


• RCMP Stetson {takes on a double meaning in this case}.


• What Prairie Wedding would be complete without a collector's truck for transportation?


• A beautiful out door Wedding table top


• A classic pump for a classic bride.


• Sassy Bridal Party style in your colour palette {I really like the combination of black and red dresses for MOH and bridesmaids}


• What a great idea: table numbers on the labels of wine!


• Images from a beautiful outdoor reception.


• Stunning outdoor table tops.


• A gorgeous Bridal Bouquet.

Thanks for letting me do this for you, C: it was a lot of fun to start planning a 'mock wedding.' I hope you enjoy this Inspiration Board {even if it is just-for-fun at this point}.

[For more Mountie Inspiration check out Rosealee & Nick's Wedding on Flickr].