Twelve Years In The Making!

Mexico 2008: Honeymoon Pics!

2008-11-29T23:41:00.000-08:00

We've been back from vacation for almost a month and I have yet to blog or post photos of any kind in that time. We had grand plans of sharing our honeymoon comings and goings as they happened, but we grossly underestimated our access to decent wi-fi while in Mexico. Nonetheless, we have officially posted our honeymoon pics from both Puerto Vallarta and Yelapa.

Many of the initial pics are from in and around the Hacienda San Angel which hosted our symbolic ceremony and where we stayed for the first five days. The hacienda was so amazing we hardly left for three days.

I think on our fourth day we ventured out to Joe Jack's Fish Shack for some ceviche and some "famous for" fish tacos. I have to say the joint didn't disappoint...the tacos were awesome, the ceviche delicious and company divine!

The following day we went on the Canopy Tour with Los Veranos Adventures which was a lot of fun. The last line shoots you into the tequila bar, where of course we had to partake of our new favorite Don Julio 1942. We received a bottle as a wedding gift from our planner, and let's just say the bottle didn't survive to see two good days.

That Saturday we traveled from Boca de Tomatlan to Yelapa where we continued our stay at Verana. This place truly was in the jungle and honestly nothing could have prepared me for the 8 minute hike up the hill, in 90% humidity and temperature. Can we just stay it kicked our a**s! Anywho, we did everything we promised and more. This city girl was totally out of her comfort zone but I thoroughly enjoyed it...beyond the sickness*, I was good.

While in Yelapa, we went horseback riding, swimming, snorkeling at the Marietas Island's and hiked a ton. We also enjoyed November 4th in the most memorable way. Beyond it being one of the most significant days in world history, we had the fortunate opportunity to spend it with several great couples and awesome staff. We took over the bar, hooked up a laptop to the sound system and anxiously watched and listened as the results came in and McCain's concession speech went out. Oh, what a glorious day it truly was!

We ended our trip with a farewell to our new friends and a bumpy water taxi ride back to Boca. Overall, we had an adventerous and eye-opening trip and we hope the images captured communicate what an amazing time we had.

Our deepest and warmest thanks to all of you who helped make our honeymoon dream a reality. We are eternally grateful and appreciative!

Dinner at Kurtwood Farm...Long over due!

2008-11-29T15:27:00.000-08:00

Okay, let me first begin by mentioning that this is the hardest dinner reservation I've ever tried to get. You literally have to know someone, who knows someone to get a seat at this table. Held every Sunday evening at Kurtwood Farm, the home kitchen of Kurt Timmermeister seats only 20 and serves up a 10 course meal for the ages!

Everything from the carrot soup with browned butter to the handmade pasta and roast pork it was all too much to handle! But ooh so worth it!

What Will It Look Like?

2008-10-13T18:57:00.000-07:00

Honestly, this is the only inspiration I've seen of our upcoming ceremony at the Hacienda San Angel in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Our planner, Lisa had an image in her head of what she envisioned and "poof!", florist Mindy Rice sketched it out! How great is that? I'll follow up with actual pics after our other big day, October 29th.

My Heart Belongs To Him

2008-10-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

We finally made it official! On Friday, October 10th Ray & I were married in a small civil ceremony at the King County Courthouse in Seattle, WA. With our family by our side and in our thoughts we exchanged our vows which were officiated by Judge Charles Mertel. It was a wonderful ceremony with lots of laughter and yes...I did cry!

We spent our afternoon wine tasting at the Tasting Room in Pike Place Market and then moved on to a wonderful dinner at Canlis.

Thank you to everyone who had us in their thoughts and have supported us over the last 13 years! Your love means more to us than you can possibly imagine. Okay, enough with the mushy stuff. Enjoy the pics!

We're off to Puerto Vallarta on the 27th for our symbolic ceremony & honeymoon with the fancy clothes and all the fixins! Check back around the first of November for pictures. I'll be blogging from sunny Mexico.

The Best A Girl Could Ask For!

2008-10-08T22:51:00.000-07:00

I feel so blessed to work with such a wonderful group of women! Thank you so much for the beautiful flowers. Everyday it was a sweet reminder of the big event and Itruly appreciate your thoughtfulness and generosity. You guys are the best!

1 Hour To A Slimmer You?

2008-09-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

Is it too good to be true? Suddenly Slender SlenderTone Body Wrap may be the perfect way to drop those last few wedding day inches. "So how does this miracle treatment work? After a brief consultation, trained technicians take your measurements and then wrap you in bandages soaked in Suddenly Slender’s exclusive “mineral solution.” The bandages are applied around your entire body—firmly to areas needing contouring and more loosely where only skin tightening is desired. Once wrapped, a light exercise routine such as walking or dancing is encouraged to promote circulation and to enhance results. After 60 minutes, the bandages are removed and you are then re-measured." According to their site " clients look 10 to 30 inches slimmer, on average, immediately after treatment." Though I've never used the service, there are many toughting their benefits and results. With features on shows such as The Tyra Banks Show, and The Rachel Ray Show to name a few their popularity is growing. But the wraps have just as many naysayers as there are believers. Many feel the wraps are just another scam to pull on the purse strings of those looking to loose weight without the use of good old exercise. Ranging in price from $120-180 per treatment, at least it's cheaper than lipo!

Let me know, is this something you are willing to try? Have you tried it previously? If so, I would love to hear your feedback.

Nie Nie Dialogues: An Update

2008-09-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

Today Stephanie Nielson's siblings were featured on the Today Show to discuss the medical status of their sister and her husband Christian. Both are still in critical care but the family is positive, upbeat and in excellent spirits.

What I found most amazing about the piece, beyond their love for their sister and her husband, was her energy. Although Stephanie was not there in person, her joyfulness and energy for life was very present! Additionally, there has been an overwhelming amount of support from their local community, online friends and family; since the accident over $100K has been raised in support of the family and their medical care.

Please continue to keep the Nielsons in your thoughts and prayers!

To donate to the Nielson family during their recovery, you can do so below or visit their recovery site Nie Recovery.

To send your well wishes or donations via mail:

c jane
2250 N. University Parkway #4876
Provo, Utah
84604-1590

Custom Cocktails

2008-09-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

From engagement parties to wedding day cocktail hour to day-after-brunches, a signature cocktail is the perfect way to customize your event. Let your imagination run wild!

Planning a destination wedding? Why not use your location as inspiration. Inspired by my fellow brides over at the Best Destination Wedding Forum, let some of my favorite (and personally tested) drinks inspire you.

Lemonade Margaritas
1 (12 oz.) can frozen lemonade
1 (12 oz.) can frozen limeade4 cans water
2 cans of premium Tequila ala no Cuervo or Sauza
1 can Triple Sec
*Serves one. For larger groups multiply receipe by number of servings desired.

Thoroughly stir all ingredients together. Fill blender carafe with ice cubes and pour approximately one-fourth of mixture over ice. Blend until frozen slush is formed. Continue with remaining mixture. Serve in a chilled sugar rimmed margarita glass with a sprig of mint and a small pinch of cayenne pepper. Recipe can be served on the rocks as well, just skip the blender.

Hawaiian Barbie
2 oz Malibu Coconut Rum
3 oz of pineapple juice
3 oz tonic water
pineapple ring (halfed)
*Serves one. For larger groups multiply receipe by number of servings desired.

*Works as a Jamaica drink as well

Pour coconut rum into a collins glass filled with ice. Add pineapple juice and tonic water. Garnish with a plumeria blossom and serve with a straw, swizzle stick or for fun, top with an umbrella!

Jamaican Hummingbird (I lived off of these while on vacation in Jamaica!)
1 oz bananas

1 oz coconut cream
1 oz creme de bananes
1 oz rum
1/2 oz of Tia Maria Coffe Liquer (Kaluha works as well)
1 oz fresh strawberries
crushed ice (to equal preffered consistency)
*Serves one. For larger groups multiply receipe by number of servings desired.
*Works as a Hawaii drink as well!

Mix all ingredients in a blender until smooth.

Roberta Chiarella Jewelry! I Could Die...

2008-09-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday everyone!

Today's post is dual purpose, first to feature the jewelry of Roberta Chiarella and second as a BIG thank you to Roberta and Elizabeth for the fabulous gift card. Roberta's work can be see all over from top celebrities and models, to brides and party girls. Chic and totally affordable her jewelry is regularly featured in national magazines such as Instyle, InStyle Weddings, The Knot, Brides, Essence and Lucky.

Recently voted a Best Web Site by InStyle Weddings you are sure to find all that you need at robertachiarella.com. From casual to luxe and everything in between that perfect piece is waiting for you! And, with a 15% discount on 4 or more bridal purchases you can deck out your entire bridal party as well. If your in the New York area contact them directly for an in studio appointment at (212) 535-5639 or email them at info@robertachiarella.com. And, while your at it check out her blog A Girl From Queens.

So, what did I purchase with my gift card ? A great multi-strand necklace to wear on my honeymoon!

{image courtesy of Roberta Chiarella}

It's Not Just A Blurb

2008-09-02T20:30:00.000-07:00

Today's post features a wonderful online service, Blurb which provides bookstore-quality books As a bride, I can think of a million and one ways to utilize this site. Let's see...shower gift, bridesmaid gift, your very own budoir book...ooh la la, but best of all a wonderful bound text of wedding day memories. Not only is Blurb a great resource; with their custom program BookSmart you can actually create your own book from the comfort of your own couch! It's a top-to-bottom site where you can turn personal images into last memories and save you money to boot! So, "What will your book be?"

As always feel free to leave comments! I love to hear from you!

It's Labor Day and I'm Starving

2008-09-01T14:52:00.000-07:00

I know these two things have nothing to do with each other but it's the truth, "I am starving on Labor Day!" I guess they're sort of related since the average American BBQ's today but alas "no mas." Though my hunger did get me thinking of seafood chowder and the prawn and avocado pizza from Matt's...humyumyumyum! Then I began to think of the hole in the wall shrimp cocktail spot in Puerto Vallarta which, though she can't remember the name, my friend and fellow blogger Mishka highly recommends. Which then got me thinking of all of the wonderful food we will eat while in PV. I can't help it...you've just witnessed the inner workings of my food obsessed brain!

If your wedding is in PV or you're just there on a much need va-kay, then below are some highly recommend local spots to check out!

Cinnamon Roll French Toast at Boca Bento. "Seriously TO DIE for. Of course, it's sweet, but oh sooooo yummy! They don't have their breakfast menu on the website because they call themselves something different in the a.m."
Nachos con carne desabrada (shredded beef) from Pipis
Nachos con pollo (with chicken) at Agave Grill
Molcajate at El Brujo. This dish consists of meet stewed in a special salsa, grilled steak and chicken, grilled onions, grilled cactus, refried beans and homemade tortillas.
Shrimp Cocktail from some place by the river...really! I'll be contacting Mishka for directions on this one. She says it's the best!
Machaca at Freddy Tucans
Aqua de Sabores (flavored water): Mishka recommends, Jamaica, Horchata (a rice based drink with canela and cream, Naranja (orange) and Limon (lemon). *Local secret ... Horchata con Fresa (strawberry horchata) which not on the board - you have to ask them if they have it.
Tacos (and quesadillas) de Carne Asada at Majayote
Late night tacos ... again, un-named but another must try!

Other all around great restaurants:

El Arrayan: "it is almost unanimously declared to be the best Mexican restaurant in town"--PotatoMato
Cafe des Artistes: "one of the most renowned restaurants in Mexico with a menu that will intrigue the most exacting palate"--The LA Times
Archie's Wok: So, you don't travel to Mexico for Asian food but...this place is wonderful! Here's the sordid back story: "John Huston was the famous Hollywood director who shot "The Night of the Iguana" in Puerto Vallarta forty years ago...leading man's (Richard Burton) extra-marital affair with Elizabeth Taylor...blah, blah, blah...PV was catapulted to international fame. John Huston - who happened to be a very picky eater - chose to live in near seclusion ..blah, blah, blah...his chef there was Archie Alpenia, the creator of Archie's Wok." Dinner at Archie's Wok averages $200 pesos per person not including drinks or tips. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. (130 Francisca Rodriguez, ½ block from Los Muertos Pier in the Zona Romantica of Olas Altas. Reservations are recommended. Tel.: 222-0411.)

{images courtesy of PotatoMato}
{foodie excerpts courtesy of Mishka @ Mishka Design}

Nie Recovery

2008-08-30T17:28:00.000-07:00

I was saddened today to hear about fellow bloggers Stephanie Nielson and her husband Christian, of the blog Nienien Dialogues who were recently in a terrible plane crash that killed the pilot and left both her and her husband with severe burns. If you are a fan of their blog, we are spreading the word to gather donations to assist in their recovery. I think Abby over at Style Me Pretty says it best "they are absolutely shining examples of family, of adventure and of creativity."

To donate to the Nielson family during their recovery, you can do so below or visit their recovery site Nie Recovery.

To send your well wishes or donations via mail:

c jane
2250 N. University Parkway #4876
Provo, Utah
84604-1590

Retro Bird Cake Topper

2008-08-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

While visiting one my favorite blogs, design*sponge I came across a very sweet DIY project for creating a custom and very RETRO BIRDIE CAKE TOPPER. "Married last October the couple, Luke and Brian wanted something unique to use as a cake topper so they came up with these birds that were built to look like the happy couple." In the spirit of Ann Wood Handmade,they constructed the topper from Styrofoam, pipe cleaners and craft glue.

DIY wedding cake toppers

What you’ll need:

-paper and pencil to sketch
-white styrofoam
-knife or carving tool to carve the foam
-sand paper
-craft glue
-white tissue
-glitter, beads, pins and decorative details like buttons, fabric covered wire and pipe cleaners

1. First we sketched out our ideas based on a photo of us, then decided (by making a mock up of the cake) what size we wanted the final piece to be.

2. We then carved the body and head shapes out of white styrofoam, sanded them smooth with sandpaper and applied a layer of craft glue to harden and gloss.

3. Then we added a few thin layers of white tissue and craft glue to give a hard smooth surface on which to work.

[From here on out the decorative details are up to you…]

4. The bodies were then covered in fine glitter to look like sugar and eyes (made of beads with flathead pins attached) were pinned into the foam forms.

5. The wings and tails were made of tweed fabric (with a layer of clear glue to shape them and keep from fraying).

6. The beaks and legs are toothpicks dipped in glue and and glitter.

7. Brian’s eyeglasses are made of fabric covered wire and Luke’s hat is made from the top of an acorn!

{images courtesy of Design*Sponge}

An Interview with Mishka Design

2008-08-24T18:38:00.000-07:00

Mishka Aznoe de Morales and Omar Morales Hurtado are co-owners of the wedding design firm Mishka Designs based in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Together, Mishka the head designer and Omar the project manager use their creativity to handle all of the details and finishing touches for their clients. Working with "the best" Vallarta has to offer they work tirelessly to fulfill each clients dreams, but going above and beyond what's imagined. From decor to flowers, linens and special lighting they make your wedding details a reality.

How long have you been a wedding designer?

I have been a designer for 3 years. I started out helping a friend with her company…and through that experience realized I was good at understanding what clients really wanted and, then, taking creative ideas to make it so!

What has been your proudest moment as a wedding designer?

Oh there are several - there are some designs that, when we actually put them altogether, I can't believe that my scribbling on a page is in front of us in color and 3D and oftentimes better than I had imagined! But my proudest moment is when we-Omar, my partner, and I had our very first event as our own company. So, our first event as our very own company "Mishka Designs" was super fun and I think turned out really nice!

What sets you apart from other designers in Puerto Vallarta?
To my knowledge, Omar and I are the only event design company in Puerto Vallarta - so I guess that's a start in setting us apart! There are florists and there are a few coordinators who have their own equipment and decorate, but Omar and I focus exclusively on creating something absolutely unique from start to finish that is completely about the bride and groom. I try to incorporate as many details as I possibly can which are truly representative of the couple and we love to add little touches that even our clients don't know about until their wedding day. I absolutely love seeing their face when they discover something they didn't know we would be doing for them and how excited and happy they are. It's one of my favorite parts!

From the University of Montana to Puerto Vallarta there must be a great story behind that!
Actually it was from the University of Montana to the University of Utah to Puerto Vallarta! I've definitely been to enough college to last me for the rest of my life! There is quite a long story about that, but to cut it short, I met and married my husband (who is Mexican) in Boise, Idaho where I was teaching Latin dancing (salsa, cumbia, bachata, merengue, etc.) and we moved first to Mexico City and then to Puerto Vallarta!

Tell me one of the crazier requests you've received from a bride or groom?
You mean, other than promise there won't be any rain? Just teasing…although I have received that request before!! Probably the craziest wedding we've ever done was the Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) wedding which, while Omar and I both worked that wedding under a different company, I designed/worked on and Omar did a majority of the art work. I was actually good friends with the bride's mother, which is how we ended-up doing the wedding. It was sooo much fun because the bride was open to anything (obviously!) and Omar and I really could let our imaginations run wild. We had the wedding at Dreams and all the guests thought the bride and groom were some sort of rock star couple!
I absolutely adore the cake we ordered from Charme which was about 6 feet tall and we had it carried out on something we made to look like a coffin by their groomsmen with sparklers - it was really dramatic!

What's your best piece of advice for a newly engaged bride?
Don't wait to book your coordinator or your location! I think those are the two most important elements - once you have those in place, my next piece of advice is to listen to your coordinator. They really do want your wedding to be amazing and many of the suggestions they will make are because they live here and they know the people and the climate.

One last question...

When marrying in Puerto Vallarta what is the quintessential thing you must incorporate into your wedding?
Well, just my opinion, but I think, no matter if you're having a Martha's Vineyard style wedding or a vintage wedding or something that doesn't have to do with Mexico or the beach, I think you should incorporate Mexico somehow into your rehearsal dinner or welcome dinner. I think having a salsa instructor come to give lessons or, if your group isn't into dancing, having a salsa team come and perform. It’s really just a great way to acknowledge that you're here and to infuse a bit of the Latin culture.

Mishka’s Recommends:
*I really believe a visit to the Bodeguitta del Medio, which is our local "cuban" bar with live Cuban music every night and excellent Mojitos.

*A visit to Sayulita or Chacala (beach towns just north of PV) really gives you a "local" flavor to the beaches (rather than a more tourist/or hotel approach). Plus those both are some of our best beaches here in the Vallarta area. Sayulita is a little more "touristic" in the fact that they have some really great little art shops, jewelry shops, etc. Chacala, on the other hand, really is much, much more laid back and smaller. It has the feel of a "lost" beach that just locals knew how to find and it's one of my favorite beaches to go to when I want to get away from everything.
Tip: "The best day to go to Sayulita is Sunday when they have what we call "tiangis" an outdoor flea market of sorts set-up in the streets."

Contact:
Mishka Design
1362 Ecuador, No# 6, 5 de Diciembre
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco 48350
email: mishkadesignspv@hotmail.com
blog: Mishka Design's Blog
skype: MishkaDesigns

Two Months & Counting!

2008-08-15T22:54:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it! It really is only two months until Ray & I tie the knot in our civil ceremony here in Seattle. We are both excited for the big day and for some reason I feel like there is so much to do and so little time, but I think it's all in my head. Anywho...night, night.

A Rainbow To Lift Our Spirits

2008-08-10T15:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we were all feeling a bit down after Lea, Mark and Mariela had left for home the night prior. No one slept very well, it had been raining most of the day and the house just felt really empty. Anyway, during our drive home and after a long day of misting had subsided, three rainbow appeared in the sky. Any other day I wouldn't think much of it, but feeling the way we did their appearance definitely lifted our spirits.

Congrats Bud!

2008-08-04T22:13:00.000-07:00

I have to send out a big CONGRATULATIONS to my buddy Bennett and his beautiful *new* fiancé, Jocelyn (check out her awesome blog). I wish you both all the best of love, luck and life. Happy planning!!!

Wedding vs. Earthquake: Sichuan, China

2008-07-31T21:39:00.000-07:00

The devastation of the 7.9 earthquake which hit on May 12, 2008 in Sichuan, China, was felt around the world. Slowly but surely images and information (though suppressed) made it's way out of the country; through the heartache comes images of the earthquake which struck in the middle of a wedding.

{images courtesy of Dragon Photo, ND Daily, Sohu.com}

Yummy on Vashon

2008-07-27T21:48:00.001-07:00

I know...I know..."use your words Kara!" but yummy is instantly what comes to mind when I reminisce over the amazing meal I had tonight at Kurtwood Farms on Vashon Island. That's really all I can say for now but will definitely post all about it soon.

Until then...meet one of Kurt's Jersey girl's.

sent from kara's iPhone
{images courtesy of Kurtwoodfarm.com}

Suprises, Suprises!!

2008-07-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

I love the fact that the design & decor details of our glorious day are quietly under wraps. Our planner Lisa Vorce of Oh How Charming! is busy pulling everything together and believe it or not the unknown is quite refreshing. Beyond communicating our likes and dislikes I have only two clues to how things may (and I use "may" loosely) appear on our wedding day. And, honestly I love it!

Think...and I quote "old world, wealthy Spanish vibe". Sounds fantastic!

Happy 4th of July!

2008-07-04T10:49:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 4TH EVERYONE! I wish I could say the sun is shining and that it's a glorious day in Seattle but alas the weather has been true to form: overcast with the chance of rain. On the brighter side our family is here from Bolivia for five weeks! Yay!

Lisa Vorce featured on Design*Sponge

2008-07-02T23:13:00.001-07:00

I've been meaning to post this for over a month now..shame on me! Our wonderful wedding planner Lisa Vorce of Oh How Charming! was recently featured as part of a week long guest blogger series on Design*Sponge. Titled "Creative People and their Creative Spaces", Abby Jean of Style Me Pretty, chose Lisa as the focus of her first post. Beyond touting her amazing work they take you inside her live/work loft. Abby has nothing but the best to say about Lisa. "She is hands down, one of the most talented event designers out there…planning weddings that are one part magic, one part chic sophistication…"

{images courtesy of Design*Sponge}

Adorable Cake Topppers from Patch NYC

2008-07-01T17:08:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love these adorable cake toppers from Patch NYC. Though totally out of my budget, (prices start at a whopping $500 big ones! ) they are a sweet and crafty way to set your cake apart from the expected. Featured in Martha Stewart Weddings among other bridal rags, each piece is custom and takes about four months to make. How perfect!

{image courtesy of patch NYC}

Simply Amazing Cakes!

2008-06-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

While searching the web for wedding cake inspiration I cam across Erica O'Brien Cake Design. Her beautiful cakes are truly works of art and as unique as each of her brides. Here is one of my favorites!

{images courtesy of Erica O'Brien Cake Design}

More On Vera!

2008-06-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

Where did she come from? How did she get her start? Check out more on Vera below!

Vera Wang: Wedding Bits' Surprise Guest Blogger

2008-06-27T12:06:00.000-07:00

I know it's the end of the week but still a worthy post. Vera Wang is guest blogging this week on Wedding Bits, an all-things-wedding blog from the folks at Brides.com. Vera kicked off her guest spot by discussing her new website, Vera Wang On Weddings. She describes her site as "a very special, bride-centric and lifestyle-centric web site. My ultimate goal is to offer you a uniquely intimate guide through the wedding process. It is my way of being there with you to help make the decisions and choices that will affect your lives." She later goes on to state "...that the site is designed to replicate a bridal boutique experience with an online bridal registry, unique content, gown and maid's gallery, and interactive wedding planning. It's not only about product; it's about style and a unique modern sense of romance and fashion."

Enjoy!

Guest Blogger: Vera WangMy Vera Wang: Take On Registry
My Vera Wang: Take On Accessories
Vera Wang: My Take On The Wedding and the Day After...

Images courtesy of Henry Leutwyler and Vera Wang

Let's Talk Color!

2008-06-24T18:23:00.001-07:00

Let's talk color! Ready-to-wear fashion trends have a huge influence within the bridal industry. One of biggest trends of 2008 is vibrant color. So how does this continuing trend lend itself to your wedding? Well it's not something you can translate verbatim. Unless you're Rainbow Bright, the last thing you want is for your wedding palette to look like a box of crayons. Take your cue from the combinations below.

The bouquet above features marigold yellow and pewter. Shades of gray are the new black and an excellent way to tone down a more vibrant palette.

Above, the hot pink of the dress is translated into a muted palette of varied shades of pink and rich bordeaux.

Gas Prices Equals Honeymoon Buzzkill

2008-06-07T23:06:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, we are excited about the wedding and equally anticipating our honeymoon. So would you believe if I told you that gas prices are forcing us to change our honeymoon plans? Well believe it! The price of gas continues to climb higher and higher and airlines continue to raise prices. On top of it all they are also cutting flights in order to save where they can. As a result, not only is it ridiculously expensive to fly from Puerto Vallarta to Colima, we can't get a flight between the two cities on the days needed. I did hear from my wedding planner that flights within Mexico can be spendy, so I guess I can't blame it all on the price of gas. But, aren't gasoline prices the cause of everything these days? I guess I'm just jumping on the band wagon.

More On Trashing The Dress...

2008-05-31T17:56:00.000-07:00

The TTD phenomenon is so wildly popular there are blogs and sites focused solely on this topic. Check out this segment of Good Morning America! which first aired in June 2007. The segment features trashthedress.com, a collective website featuring images and contact information for photographers who have made this new tradition a part of their bag o' tricks!

Need more inspiration? Check out youtube.com for additional videos of TTD sessions.

Video courtesy of Good Morning America!

Anyone Up For A Little TTD?

2008-05-31T16:02:00.000-07:00

What is Trash The Dress? Or, as it has affectionately called TTD? It's a not so new, yet increasingly popular, post nuptial, pseudo-tradition; most often assumed by destination wedding couples. The practice was originally coined as "Wash the Dress" but eventually evolved into its current form.

The idea behind the concept is that the newly engaged couple participate in an ultra-casual and super playful photo session the day after the wedding. Many couples opt for the morning after, yet some prefer the evening to capture the setting sun. Whichever you choose, you are sure to enjoy the experience.

From what I've been able to tell this new tradition of sorts started with John Michael Cooper of alt f photgraphy. He is the master of different takes on TTD and literally gives new meaning to their mantra "very different wedding photography"!

I've picked my favorites, somewhat extreme but nonetheless great!

Images courtesy of alt f photgraphy

Wedding Water Anyone?

2008-05-17T10:25:00.000-07:00

How sweet! Evian has partnered with French designer Christian Lacroix to create two beautiful water bottle designs inspired by Lacroix's Spring couture and pret-a-porter collections. Such a perfect (slightly indulgent) compliment to any wedding table!

2008-05-10T15:31:00.001-07:00

Today's post features the work of Ariella Chezar Floral Design. I came across Ariella while reading an article in Martha Stewart Weddings magazine where her work was featured. I appreciate her design aesthetic and find it perfectly suited for my wedding day. Her book Flowers for the Table is a master class of natural and sophisticated floral arranging. By following her lead you too can be a flower aficionado.

Using the images below I'd like the florist to design a similar swag to adorn the seating for our wedding dinner. It's a special touch that add' ambiance to a simple tablescape.

Image courtesy of Ariella Chezar Floral Design

Destination: Flowers

2008-05-10T14:13:00.000-07:00

If you're planning a destination wedding than you understand the joys and pains of working with the resources available (or in my case unavailable) to your locale. For many brides one of the most challenging topics is choosing flowers. In my most recent experience most of the flowers I had chosen (in my mind of course) for my bouquet are not available in Mexico. Not to be undone, I quickly asked my florist to send me a list of what is available and honestly, it wasn't half bad.

National Production:
Roses
Gerber daisies
Alstroemerias
Tiger lilies
Stargazer lilies
Dendrobium orchids
Cattleya orchids
Anthurium
Heliconias
Agapnathus
Delphiniums
Lisianthus
Freesias
Iris
Liatris
Ornitogalum
Tube rose
White calla lily
Calla Lilies (colored)
Phalenopsis

Imported and more expensive
Tulips
Hyacinthus
Amaryllis

Not Available
Ranunculas
Peonies
Narcissus
Anemones
Stephanotis orchids

Once I reviewed the list I google'd the flowers I wasn't familiar with allowing me to narrow the list and choose my favorites. From there, I visited sites such as The Knot, Brides.com and Martha Stewart Weddings to find my bouquet inspiration. Below are some of beautiful options I discovered. Enjoy!

Images courtesy of marthastewart.com

2008-05-10T00:38:00.001-07:00

Speaking of civil ceremonies...for some reason I feel like J.Crew is the perfect place to shop for attire to suit the occasion. I began to feel the creative juices flow and came up with this inspiration board to use as a reference point. Even if it is city hall, who says it can't be chic?

BEACH CHIC IN THE CITY
Top left & right: Metallic Jacquard Zoey Dress $198
Bottom left & right: Metallic Brushstroke Antonia Dress $165
Center: Crystal Sunburst Cocktail Ring $75
Center: Dauphine Metallic T-strap Sandals $88

CHANNELING AUDREYTop left: Linen-silk Tussah Rosette Dress $395
Top right: Cotton Cady Daisy Dress $225
Bottom left: Jacquard Daisy Dress $268
Bottom right: Polka-dot Rosette Dress $168
Images courtesy of jcrew.com

Logística de Matrimonio en Mexico

2008-05-10T00:02:00.000-07:00

Managing the logistics of marrying in Mexico is not for the faint of heart. I received my requirement information today and at first past it seems a bit daunting. It oculd also be that it's midnight and I need to go to bed, either way here's what I've received thus far.

Requirements for a Legal (Civil) Ceremony in Colima, Mexico:
Single Status Certificate (issued by your local Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Office). For identification requirements click here.
• Original Birth Certificate with 3 copies enclosed (from each party). Currently links to my state of birth but similar sites are available for all states.
• Medical certificate with blood test of each party (Even when cohabiting and having children together)
• Prenuptial Guidance Certificate
• Divorced: Divorce Certificate
• Widowed: Death Certificate
• 2 witnesses for the bride and 2 for the groom (preferably members of the family, but NOT parents)
• Official photo ID (One copy of each party)
• If one of the parties is not a Mexican citizen, a permit from “Dirección de Servicios Migratorios” (Inmigration Office) and also from “Dirección de Registro Civil” (Resgistry Office) in the state of Colima must be presented.
• When one or both of the parties is/are under 18 the parents must be present with an Official photo ID (Original and one copy.)
• All documents must be delivered with at least 8 days in advance.

I don't know...I feel a civil ceremony at the King County Courthouse coming on...

Hacienda de San Antionio: Part Deux

2008-05-09T23:36:00.000-07:00

Initially we were planning only to honeymoon at the hacienda but we're now considering having our ceremony there as well, a decision I am thrilled about! Not only is the hotel and surrounding property stunning, they have been oh so accommodating in making arrangements, down to the very last detail. We've set the "official" wedding date as October 14th but based on the logistics of marrying in Mexico we may have a civil ceremony in Seattle and a symbolic ceremony in Mexico. Either way I'm jazzed! In the meantime, here are a few more beautiful pics of our location. Enjoy!

It's A Wrap!

2008-05-03T18:19:00.000-07:00

I just love the capelet Molly Sims wore to the Kentucky Derby! I've been searching high and low for a simple chic coverup to complement my gown and I think I've found just that. I knew watching the Derby with Ray would be good for something!

Just Juno

2008-05-03T08:18:00.001-07:00

Not at all wedding related but just as wonderful so I had to mention it. JUNO! Have you seen it??? If you haven't then you're in for a treat and if you have, watch it again! It's such a great film and handles the ever-more-common issue of teenage pregnancy with artful grace and levity. And, to top it all off it's a love story on so many levels. With signature lines that rival (and in my opinion, trump) Napoleon Dynamite this one will go down as a classic.

Image courtesy of imdb.com

Paper Bag Luminaria

2008-05-02T22:48:00.000-07:00

I love the look of PAPER BAG LUMINARIA and the best thing is they are super easy to create and make quite the statement without a lot of expense. I'd call that a perfect DIY project!
FACT:The tradition of luminaria (paper-bag lanterns illuminated by votive candles) originated in Mexico, spreading throughout the Southwestern US and then the world.
PROJECT SUPPLIES:
:Paper lunch bags
*Any light-colored paper bag will do. Also, to add height and depth use multiple sizes
:12-inch solid-colored doilies
*White doilies don't show up as well, Martha recommends gold ones!)
:Ruler
:Scalloped rotary cutter OR pinking shears (whichever is to your liking)
:Utility knife
:Scissors
:Glue stick or Xyron sticker-making machine
:Votive candles OR LED battery operated candles
*Glass votives are a must if you use real candles and they provide a solid base
:Utility lighter

LET'S GET STARTED:
1. Lay each bag flat; use a metal ruler to guide the rotary cutter or pinking shears to cut a new top edge 1 to 1.5 inch below the bag's original edge. (if you're unable to find bags of multiples sizes, cut them to varying heights using the process above)
2. To cut doilies to fit the bag, lay a doily flat on the work surface. Lay a bag on top and mark your cut lines with pencil. Cut straight lines using a ruler and scissors or utility knife 1/8 inch from the pencil marks. The doily's slightly smaller size allows it to lay flat inside.
3. Coat the gold/dark side of the doily generously with glue from the glue stick, or coat it with self-adhesive using the Xyron machine. Attach doily to the inside of the front of the bag, positioning it as desired. After gluing, close the bag, and run your hand firmly over the design to seal. Open the bag, and let dry at least 1 hour.
4. Set the bag in desired location, and then put the votive candle, in its holder, inside. Light the wick once the candle holder has been securely placed; do not carry the lit luminaria (below left).
*For a more shadowy effect, forgo step 4 and place each doily inside the bag at an angle using just a dab of glue at the top to secure it. Lean doily forward towards the edge of the bag, avoiding the flame (below right).

Excerpts courtesy of marthastewart.com
Images courtesy of Lisa Lefkowitz & marthastewart.com

Hair Wow!

2008-04-28T22:15:00.000-07:00

There are only two words to describe the beautiful hair accessories from Jennifer Behr...Absolutely Fab! I came across her site while visiting the Hello! Lucky blog and I'm soooo glad I did. I've been looking high and low for the pièce de résistance to complement my dress and now thanks to Jennifer I've found just that!Image courtesy of Jennifer Behr

Sister, Sister Ties the Knot!

2008-04-28T21:37:00.000-07:00

Actress Tia Mowry of Sister, Sister fame married her long time boyfriend Cory Hardrict on Sunday. The two were married at the Four Seasons Resort in Santa Barbara in front of 170 guests. Mowry walked down the aisle to a live performance by R&B singer Kenny Lattimore, who sang "For You." Kenny Lattimore? It's been a minute since I've heard that name. Anywhoo! I think she looks absolutely stunning! Love the hair, the dress, the earrings, shoot there's nothing I don't like. Well...maybe the flowers, but I can look past that! Just kidding!
Image courtesy of People magazine

Hacienda de San Antionio

2008-04-27T18:58:00.000-07:00

So Friday morning I booked our honeymoon at the wonderfully beautiful Hacienda de San Antonio. The crazy part of this is that we have yet to make any arrangements for our wedding. I continue to put it off, maybe in hopes that I'll wake up one day and all of the arrangements will have been made and all I'll need to do is show up! Anyway, back to the point of this post. Ray & I are in for five days of absolute bliss at the Hacienda de San Antonio.Located in the shadow of a live volcano, the hacienda is the 470-acre centerpiece of a 5,000-acre working ranch, which produces organically raised meat, produce and coffee. There's no beach to be found but it wasn't our concern. We were drawn here by the idea of exploring the ranch on horseback, mountain bikes, noon day picnics and sunset swims and margaritas. "The whole experience is like a never ending siesta!" states Kevin Sullivan of The Washington Post.
"There is absolutely no television in the suites, thank God, and cell phones don't work...so those temptations are out". Though I foresee us breaking ourselves away for a brief moment to search out a little Wi-Fi and update you all with the breathtaking photos of our trip, but I can't make any promises.
The overwhelming beauty and abundance of the land, is exemplified by resident gourmet chef, David Ferre. Whether you're enjoying breakfast in your suite, a picnic on the trail or dinner in the formal dining room, no expense is spared in satisfying each guests epicurean whim.

Only 5 months and 20 days to perfect bliss! Adios!
Excerpts courtesy of Kevin Sullivan
Images courtesy of Hacienda De San Antonio

Romance is in the Air!

2008-04-14T23:02:00.001-07:00

David Tomlin for the Sydney Morning Herald
February 15, 2006

What began as a simple remodeling project for a private holiday home in Mexico's Puerto Vallarta took a wildly romantic turn and blossomed into an enchanting boutique hotel.

Janice Chatterton can't say exactly how Hacienda San Angel happened - she'd never run a hotel or restaurant - but it's possible she couldn't resist sharing the property's high love-nest potential.

Chatterton bought her tropical villa from Susan Hunt, who received it as a 1977 St Valentine's Day gift from her husband, the late actor Richard Burton. Just around the corner is another Burton gift house, the one he gave to Elizabeth Taylor.

With the ghosts of such dangerous liaisons swirling around it, a small luxury hotel would have a hard time missing as a destination for lovebirds, and Hacienda San Angel doesn't miss.

From the outside, the place looks innocent enough, tucked into a modest neighbourhood of white stucco and red tile roofs on a cobbled street of central Puerto Vallarta.

It's nothing like the glossy high-rise hotel resorts springing up along the beaches north and south of the city.

But guests are admitted to a lush, tiled courtyard straight out of colonial Mexico, a place where it's easy to picture a duel for your honour on the balustrade or a senorita beckoning from beyond the burbling fountain. Bougainvillea blossoms drop from overhead. Inside the hotel, romantic and secluded spaces abound. It is a warren of stairways, alcoves, winding passages, terraces, pools and gardens that lead from courtyard to guest rooms with names such as Angel's Dome, Milagro and the Celestial Suite.

Chatterton added two adjacent homes to the original villa to create the hacienda's 10 guestrooms. Chatterton, who is from California, wasn't sure if Puerto Vallarta drew enough upmarket visitors for the level of luxury she found herself offering. "But it has more than met my expectations," she said.

There are cocktails each afternoon in the main courtyard and shops, markets, galleries, cafes and beaches are all within easy walking distance.

But some severely lovestruck guests don't emerge from the Celestial Suite until check-out time.

Article courtesy of David Tomlin for the Sydney Morning Herald.
Images courtesy of Hacienda San Angel

Feeling Inspired?

2008-04-14T22:44:00.002-07:00

Everyone needs a little inspiration now and then. Instead of pulling tears from piles of bridal mags I surfed the web and created digital inspiration boards. They turned out great, require less organization and saved me hours of sorting through magazines.

The color palette: Cream, Brown and the
faintest touch of color!

Romantic flowers
Images courtesy of Style Me Pretty and additional contributors

Can You Say Hot!

2008-04-14T22:44:00.001-07:00

Founded on the premise that every bridesmaid should look like a million bucks twobirds bridesmaid created this ultra flattering, multi-talented frock. Made from super comfortable jersey spandex and available in two lengths from $270 it can be worn in ten, yes...ten unique ways.

Images courtesy of twobirds bridesmaid

There's a similar dress available from Butter by Nadia. At a slightly higher price they're just as sassy and available in cotton jersey or satin.

Images courtesy of Butter by Nadia

Ready, Set, Go!

2008-04-14T22:42:00.000-07:00

Oh, where to start? I'm not 100% sure but I love scouring magazines and design books for inspiration. I've actually found some of my ideas in the most unexpected places. And, needless to say, I have very much to do and very little time to do it in (according to the official rules of wedding planning). Am I worried? Not in the least! I eat time lines like this for breakfast! I work in retail for Christ's sake. This wedding planning got nothin' on me! What! What! So, where you ask am I finding such wonderful nuggets of decor galore? Read on and ye shall see:
Michelle Rago Ltd., based out of NYC she and her team create dream weddings and floral decor to rival Mother Earth herself. Best of all, she recently published Signature Weddings: Creating a Day Uniquely Your Own. Available at Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble and Book Sense it makes a perfect Christmas slash "I know you are busy planning our wedding and need a thoughtful present", type of gift. I've also perused the website of Ceci New York. Hmm...is there a theme developing? Not really it's just a coincidence but great all the same. Ceci New York specializes is custom designed wedding invitations. I mean pie in the sky, money is no object invites. Check them out, their work speaks for itself. If you're budget conscious like I am, visit their retail site ShopCeci.com for personalized stationary, thank you cards and notes. Ok, just two more! Domino Magazine and Blueprint Magazine, both rags are stylish, modern, offer amazing home decor, fashion and style advice. But, each has fabu ideas on party planning. Most recently in their November and December issues they cover this very topic form A to Z (primarily for the holidays) but ideas are so unexpected you can easily draw inspiration for your day!
Images courtesy of Michelle Rago and Ceci New York

Choosing "The" Dress

2008-04-14T22:41:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, I made a first attempt at shopping for my wedding gown. To prepare, I searched the web prior to my trip to make sure I had the proper underpinnings for such an endeavor. Strapless bra? Check! Heels? Check! Spanx? Girl, I pulled every piece I own...Check! And we're off! My girlfriend Kristi was a doll to go with me, still a relative newlywed she was up for the challenge. We arrive at our destination, feed the meter and enter what is soon to become the place I find the dress of my dreams, The Bridal Garden. Upon entering our wonderful bridal consultant Liz, quickly introduces herself and begins to explain the layout of the store, the process of choosing a gown and takes our bags to my changing room. I'm 60 seconds in the door and already overwhelmed by the experience. Needless to say, I slowly regain my composure and begin to work my way through the gowns. Would I find the one for me? Fifteen minutes and ten gowns later, I'm undressed, wiggling into my Spanx and ready to try on the first gown. A word of caution before I proceed: I have champagne taste on a beer budget, so I'm convinced the most expensive gown is the one I'll fall madly in love with. I tried on sheaths, a little strapless number, A-line's and even a ball gown. There were sweetheart necklines, Swiss dot fabrics and silk charmeuse and something I can only describe as lattice work crossed with a doily...very pretty but not for me. Yet, when I put on "my dress" I knew it...the god's were with me, I had fallen in love with the cheapest dress on my rack; everything seemed to be working in my favor. Not only was it on sale with and original price tag over $2000, it was straight off the rack Monique Lhuillier AND in perfect condition. And considering the fit, alternations will be minimal and it was everything I had hoped for! Truly, ask your self...from one bride to another. What are the odd's??? I think I may have had the easiest gown shopping experience of all time. Okay...well maybe not of all time but close to it! Oh! and which dress did I choose? You'll just have to wait until the big day!
Images courtesy of Melissa Sweet

2008-01-26T13:59:00.001-08:00

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