Chic Ashtray

Smoking is disgusting, I know. The husband doesn't smoke cigarettes, thank gawd, but he does puff on a pipe or cigar once in a while. I told you, he is an old soul. Either are  still disgusting, but tolerable on occassion. The problem, other than the obvious, is that I cannot find a chic ashtray. I found an Hermes ashtray, but it is $600! Gorgeous, but I would rather have a great scarf or a fab new pair of shoes. Any advice?

Red Balloon Save the Dates

Save-the-dates are a great introduction to the actual wedding. How clever is this save the date by Office Optimist? 

photos via

Sunday Suppers

Sunday Suppers is a genius idea that food stylist and photographer Karen Mordechai started a few years back in Brooklyn.

"Sunday Suppers are offered once or twice a month and take place in a loft in Williamsburg Brooklyn. A group of 14-20 strangers are taught by guest chefs to prepare a meal from scratch. The class is followed by a wonderful communal dining experience with new friends."

 Is that not the greatest idea ever? What they fail to mention is that they also have gorgeous centerpieces and great bars set up. They have a new website that is drop dead and now have recipes and menus that you can use in your own kitchen.

Some of my favorites from them are:

Make your own martini bar

What a great idea for a cocktail party at your house? The only  bad thing about hosting a party is playing bar tender all night. This gives your guests a way to be interactive while letting you enjoy the party as well.

Sunday Suppers never let guests leave empty handed and have the most clever favor ideas. This "Cuddle Cocoa" is by the creator of Chewing the Cud. I love the typography and the materials used.

photography by Karen Mordechai

J.Crew Bridal Boutique is Open!

J. Crew has finally opened their bridal boutique! Isn't that exciting! I am the biggest fan of Oscar and Carolina, Vera and Monique, but when it comes down to it, would you rather have a fabulous dress or an open bar and band? My vote is opt out of the fancy designer dress and throw a killer party! J.Crew offers beautiful dresses that are affordable enough to have the best of both worlds!

I haven't died...it's just wedding season

Hi long lost friends! I'll cut to the chase and share this wedding full of non cliche' beach inspired eye candy with you. I love this wedding so much because it is more coastal than beach. Does that make sense? I really love the play on color, I'm obsessed with the stripped table linen, and I love love love the flowers. What a charming wedding!

This is absolutely one of the greatest boutonnières I have ever seen.

The details of this bouquet are so sweet and pretty Look at the pins and the lace!

It is so important to brand your wedding. The little details really make everything so special.

Love the oyster shell with the orchids and all of the green glass wine goblets.

photos via

Life has been a little hectic....

Life has been a little hectic lately. Lots of work on weddings, parties, and home life has been wonderfully busy with house projects and dinner parties and gardening and cleaning. When I have a chance to step back from all of this craziness, I really do have such a blessed life. Sorry for such a long absence, I hope to be back very soon. Happy weekend!

xx

Gorgeous Rehearsal Dinner

I'm one of those lucky girls that dreamed of being a wedding planner and actually get to do it everyday. I'm surrounded by such talented vendors that are some of my very best friends. This is a rehearsal dinner that was designed by Jennifer from Salt Harbor Design and photographed by Rachel from Millie Holloman Studio. This was such a great rehearsal dinner and really kicked off the wedding weekend!

The bride and groom

Decor inside Bald Head Island Club

Great guestbook idea!