Sweet as a Peach

1 Year and a Feature on EAD!

2011-07-29T18:23:00.006-04:00

One year ago today, Hunter and I were practicing walking down the aisle at our wedding rehearsal. It is CRAZY to think that already a whole year has flown by since being married!

To commemorate our first anniversary, I thought I'd (finally) share our wedding!

But first, since it is WAAAY overdue, I wanted to share our wedding featured on one of the most fabulous wedding blogs around, Elizabeth Anne Designs!

We were honored to be featured as a Real Wedding back in May (I know, I am so behind the power curve here, forgive me!). I was excited to hear from Ami and give her some insight into our wedding planning and the day itself. She gave us a wonderful feature, and shared some of our favorite images. We love how it turned out!

Thank you to Ami at Elizabeth Anne Designs for sharing our special day!

(all images by Kate Headley Photography)

hi there

2011-07-29T17:59:00.003-04:00

Hello Friends!

It has been quite some time since I last posted on this blog. I had no intention of taking such a long blog "sabbatical," if you will, but I've found over the past year that as life changes, so do daily priorities...

The time I took for granted in past years to devote to the blog is no longer readily available. I used to be able to browse the web, collect inspiration, and craft blog posts during work hours, in the days and jobs of yore. Now-a-days, with the amount of time I spend working and in front of a computer, when I get home, the last desire in my mind is to sit back down in front of another computer and spend more hours. In the past months, I've enjoyed spending time with my husband, cooking, reading, traveling, and pursuing creative endeavors in my limited spare time. And it's been wonderful!

But I do miss the blog world and all the inspiration it has to offer--I'm not sure if I can keep up a daily blogging regime like before, but I don't just want to quit it. I still want to have an outlet to post interesting and inspirational finds that I may come across. I think the best balance is to keep the blog but post, if somewhat irregularly, when I can. Mainly, I want to share my wedding posts, and after then...we'll see where the road takes me. Perhaps I'll transfer to a more simple Tumblr or Pinterest format...

Thank you to the readers who are still reading (if there are any out there!). I enjoyed running this blog in it's prime, and am sorry I can't keep it up like I used to. There is always so much kindness and encouragement running through the blog world! So Thank You!

Southern Living Weddings

2011-02-15T20:00:00.000-05:00

Hunter and I are excited to have had our summer wedding recently featured in Southern Living Weddings magazine!

It was a thrill to be interviewed and to have our celebration included among 25 real weddings in this special issue. Southern Living is a staple in our family household so it's a bit surreal. Thanks to our fabulous photographer Kate Headley, for taking such magazine-worthy photos!

More wedding photos and DIY details to come (I'm finally getting around to sharing!)

L.O.V.E

2011-02-14T09:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentines Day

May your day be filled with love!

image via MS

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T08:30:00.001-05:00

I heard the bells on Christmas Day

Their old familiar carols play,

And wild and sweet the words repeat

Of peace on earth, good will to men.

Popping in to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! May your holiday be filled with family, love, and good cheer!

image via Martha Stewart

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-11-09T09:28:00.001-05:00

I'm not sure I would necessarily call this one pretty.... more like "busy"? It just stuck out at me. Is that a flower? A tarantula? I don't know, but it got my attention, and I guess that's the point.

Flower Peep Toe from Diego Dolcini at Neiman Marcus

Pillars

2010-11-08T20:59:00.004-05:00

Last week I randomly started watching The Pillars of the Earth through my instant Netflix and was so immediately intrigued by it that I spent a whole evening watching all 8 episodes back to back. I read the book last summer and while the miniseries progresses through the story very quickly (and is rather graphic), it stayed true to the nature of the novel. I found myself wishing there were more than 8 episodes. If you don't have Netflix, it looks as though you can still watch all of them online here.

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-11-02T10:06:00.000-04:00

Or in this case, Pretty Slipper Tuesday. Just discovered these new cute lambswool slippers at J.Crew... as the description says, "for the girl who defines chic."

Knit Bow Ballet Slipper from J.Crew

dress up

2010-11-01T22:42:00.004-04:00

Some favorite dresses from Anthro's fall offerings:

fall decor

2010-10-14T18:52:00.004-04:00

I've been looking around for good fall harvest decor (still in nesting mode!). Everytime I see decor in the stores though, I always second-guess how good it will look in my house, so I can never commit, and I just go back to looking for inspiration photos. Eventually I'll have some fall decor in my house!

images from Martha Stewart Living

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-10-12T11:00:00.000-04:00

Lovely in lace:

Christian Louboutin Lace Crepe-de-Chine Pump at Bergdorfs

Traditional Home Inspiration

2010-09-28T23:23:00.003-04:00

I have really been into the interior design magazines lately: home decor, painting, furniture, textiles... I just spent a good deal of time looking through the galleries of Traditional Home and saved some images that stuck out at me for one reason or another.

all images via Traditional Home

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-09-14T22:42:00.002-04:00

I love love love these autumnal, ivy-league peep toes. Love the flannel, love the heel, love the suede detailing, love it all. only... would you wear tights with them? being peep toes and all?

JCrew Flannery Platform Peep Toes

wrap the walls

2010-09-08T08:00:00.000-04:00

If we owned our home, I would definitely consider putting wallpaper in a (small) room or two. Something unique and unexpected, like these patterns from Anthropologie, with fun names like Mansfield Court, Topsy-Turvey, and Lady of the Manor. Cranesbill Castle is my favorite.

Cranesbill Castle

Mansfield Court

Topsy-Turvy

Lady Of The Manor

Are You Being Served

Blazing Poppies

Anthropologie wallpapers

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-09-07T22:19:00.005-04:00

Thanks to the new issue of Martha Stewart Weddings for featuring this sleek and chic satin pretty and for introducing me to Barbara Bui.

Barbara Bui satin heel via Martha Stewart Weddings Fall issue

and the award...

2010-09-01T22:09:00.005-04:00

...for fiercest magazine cover goes to.... the ridiculously good looking cast of Mad Men. This show was definitely deserving of it's recent Best Drama Emmy award. Best show on television, by far.

Rolling Stone cover by Robert Trachtenberg

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-08-31T22:30:00.000-04:00

Who's ever found a pair of shoes they loved so much, that they bought it in more than one color? (anyone else raising their hand?) The lovely fall jewel tones of these Badley Mischka Randall pumps make it to choose just one pair...

via Nordstrom

shopping at the Barn

2010-08-31T21:41:00.005-04:00

I am in serious nesting mode right now, and can't stop thinking about furniture, decor, color ways, design... I am so ready to make our apt into a cozy home. There are several pieces from Pottery Barn that I'd really like to welcome through the front door :) but most will have to wait... at least for now.

Map Coffee Table

Bedford Corner Desk Set

Daily System

Farmhouse Canopy Bed

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-08-24T21:23:00.005-04:00

Satin & champagne. The Clara platform pump.

from J.Crew

jewelry box

2010-08-23T08:57:00.001-04:00

Lately, I've been noticing how great the jewelry at Ann Taylor is. Lots of elegant and classic styles, but still decently affordable.

all from Ann Taylor

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-08-17T21:58:00.006-04:00

To make up for lost time, I couldn't feature just one pair of shoes today. So how about six? I've never worn a pair of Kate Spades, but I'm sure they're just as fun to wear as they are to look at.

colorful heels from kate spade

married!

2010-08-09T09:36:00.005-04:00

Greetings from the married side! Time has flown by and we're already back from our honeymoon (which was absolutely great--more on it later).

I'm excited to share the details of the wedding; all the projects and ideas, and pictures and stories. The wedding last Friday was absolutely amazing--the weather was beautiful, the event was pretty perfect, and so many of our guests have noted how great a time they had. I'm so happy that everything came together and we were able to celebrate with friends and family at a beautiful event. We had amazing vendors that each provided the perfect touch, and the best support from family and friends who helped make the day what it was. Every time I think about our wedding, I can't help but smile... and I love that!

Married life is, in a word... great! It's amazing when you get to spend all your time with your best friend. And now we have a house (apt) to make our home; we've got meals to cook, furniture to buy, walls to decorate, and memories to make!

Look out for more wedding posts to come :)

image of my bouquet from bridesmaid's camera

one week

2010-07-23T08:01:00.003-04:00

One week from today I'll be walking down the aisle to marry my love.

I cannot wait!

image source unknown

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-07-06T20:52:00.004-04:00

How is it Tuesday already? Time is just flying by! But not too fast to slow down for a moment to admire these Kate Spades in all their sheer striped perfection.

Kate Spade Graham Pump via Nordstroms

God Bless America

2010-07-04T13:31:00.004-04:00

This year, we are braving the crowds to trek into the city and camp out on the Capitol lawn for the great A Capitol Fourth concert and fireworks. It promises to be a festive evening!

Have a happy 4th!!

birthday girl

2010-07-01T16:54:00.003-04:00

Today is my birthday. And the first day of July. Which means I get married THIS MONTH! Today, we did a venue walkthrough with our coordinator, photographer, and caterer and I am so excited to visualize it all coming together! July promises to be a wonderful month :)

image via Martha

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-06-30T22:24:00.004-04:00

Tuesday was yesterday, but I couldn't wait a whole week to share these sky high pumps with little crystal bows :)

Giuseppe Zanotti Crystal bow-embellished suede pumps via Net-a-porter

cottage in the woods

2010-06-29T08:18:00.006-04:00

Wouldn't it be lovely to build a little cottage tucked away in the woods?

images credit NYTimes/Trondo

peach print

2010-06-23T21:36:00.004-04:00

I laughed when I saw this new bathing suit at J.Crew. You never find any type of print with a peach in it! Look at all those little mini peaches :) I wish it was more of the pink peach persuasion, instead of yellow. But it's cute nonetheless.

fine china

2010-06-23T08:00:00.000-04:00

I have not put any fine china on our wedding registries yet. Part of me thinks I will never use it so why spend the money? Then the other part of me thinks that it's tradition and it will always be nice to have. After all, if ever there was a time to ask for fine china, now is it! My dilemma is that I cannot choose a pattern I love enough. I want something timeless but unique. Something with some color or pattern. Here are a few that have caught my eye so far...

Did you register for fine china?

all from Macys

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-06-22T22:53:00.003-04:00

Sweet like sorbet!

Brian Atwood Sasha heel

favorite fashions

2010-06-21T22:21:00.004-04:00

Beautiful color and structural drama from Carolina Herrera Resort 2011.

images via style.com

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-06-15T06:52:00.002-04:00

Christian Louboutin Madame Butterfly pumps via here and here

sweet as a peach

2010-06-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

Peach season will soon be upon us and I cannot wait to indulge in this most delectable fruit. It's no surprise Martha Stewart is my first stop in finding the best ways to eat a peach.

images via Martha Stewart

oh hello there

2010-06-13T22:41:00.004-04:00

I feel as though I have been gone forever from this little blog of mine. Where have I been? Here's a small glimpse of what has consumed my life for what seems like the past two months.

Those are envelopes. From my wedding invitations. For the last two months, I have been designing, debating, prepping, printing, cutting, coloring, assembling, addressing, sealing, and stamping over 200 invitations... all. by. hand.

Phew! The best part is that they are now done and mailed and we are steadily receiving RSVPs! And the wonderful compliments I've received on how great the invitations are have made all the stress, hard work, and long sleepless nights that went into making them totally worth it.

I can't wait to share them with you!

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-05-25T18:58:00.002-04:00

I really want a good pair of gladiator-like sandals this summer. Perhaps these?

J.Crew Gladiator Bow-Tie Heel

awash in color

2010-05-18T13:00:00.001-04:00

Oh Happy Day is one of my absolute favorite blog reads. Jordan's creativity never ceases to amaze and inspire. I am loving the mix of letterpress and watercolor she recently featured; two favorite art forms combined into one lovely project.

images from Oh Happy Day

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-05-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

Well, hello! It's been a while since I posted last. I have been furiously busy, crafting away on numerous wedding projects! 74 days to go!

My last post was on shoes, and this one is on shoes, and probably a good 45% of my posts lately seem to be about shoes, but quite frankly... one can never get enough of shoes! so, onward ho! This week's shoe pick is the delightfully dotted Molly:

Kate Spade Molly heel

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-05-04T21:28:00.003-04:00

What is it about navy and white stripes that make everything look so classic and clean? Even when that something has a 5" wooden platform heel?

the Coach Kimi heel

creative ventures

2010-04-28T22:38:00.009-04:00

Our fabulous photographer, Kate Headley, just launched her new blog and featured our engagement photos as one of her first posts. Congrats to Kate on the new blog--I love the new design!

I've also been meaning to post a congrats to the ladies of the Hive at 1511 for the recent opening of their new creative studio!

We were lucky to visit during our engagement shoot and during their recent open house and it's such a great concept! Ritzy Bee Events, Simplesong Design, and Kate Headley Photography all in one space, and a ridiculously awesome space at that. What an exciting venture!

images by Kate Headley

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-04-27T09:00:00.000-04:00

I don't think it's possible to have too many patterned ballet flats; the design options are endless and they can dress up an outfit while still being comfortable. Plus, who wouldn't want some patterned pep in their step?

the Marilyn from Pretty Ballerinas, via Habitually Chic

clutch

2010-04-26T16:00:00.000-04:00

Two cute clutches, new from J.Crew:

the Raffia Bow and the Ribbon Rosette

that hat

2010-04-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

I am in love with Carolina Herrera's latest bridal collection. Purely gorgeous. And I'm dying over that hat!

Oh that people still wore hats that way.

all images by Matthew Grazier via Style Me Pretty

e-session

2010-04-20T23:23:00.004-04:00

One of the most important wedding priorities for me was the photography. It was probably the first thing we researched and booked aside from the venue. I wanted a fresh mix of classic style, photojournalism, and editorial. So I am super excited that the talented Kate Headley will be our wedding photographer! I came across her work through the blogosphere and really love her style, so she was the first photographer I turned to :)

A few weekends ago we set out on a beautiful spring Saturday to take our engagement photos. Although our original plan to hit up Georgetown (and Georgetown Cupcake) was spoiled by the masses of people descendant upon D.C. for the Cherry Blossom festival, we still had a fun time at an alternate location, strolling Old Town Alexandria.

Let me preface these photos by saying that the week leading up to our shoot, I had clocked in a tremendous number of hours at work. The day before our session I ended up working in the office from 7:30 am Friday to 5:30 am Saturday morning! So by the time we started taking pictures I had been up for about 34 hours straight with no sleep... Not how I would have preferred to prepare for my engagement photos, but we still had lots of fun and got some great shots :) Thanks Kate!

all images by Kate Headley Photography

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-04-20T20:42:00.003-04:00

The chic-ness speaks for itself:

Valentino satin bow sandal via Net-a-Porter

4.16

2010-04-16T00:44:00.007-04:00

It has been three years now and I still tear up when I revisit the memories of April 16th. I will always be proud of the immense spirit that bonds the Hokie community together, and be moved by the world's heartfelt embrace of Virginia Tech in grieving with us over such a tragic loss.

In remembrance of the 32....

image

a book by its cover

2010-04-14T23:41:00.003-04:00

That saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover"...? I totally do. And I'm totally judging that these coffee table and art books, recently reviewed in Veranda magazine, must be pretty fabulous. Just look at their covers!

I want to flip through them all.

images via Veranda

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-04-13T08:38:00.000-04:00

Purple and orange animal stripe with a rosette poof.

Sounds kinda crazy, but it's surprisingly fresh and fun. I would totally wear these.

Any Clemson girls out there? These shoes are calling out to you...

the Marielle by Brian Atwood

a glimpse...

2010-04-12T22:12:00.005-04:00

...of the Save the Dates that were sent out back in February.

I designed, printed and assembled them myself.* I received numerous compliments on them, which of course made me feel good, but what was most gratifying was that I was able to create. It was satisfying to see an idea become tangible and to be able to make the first glimpse of our wedding with my own hands.

*Thanks, Mom, for cutting envelope liners!

image by me

where are the wedding posts?

2010-04-12T21:42:00.005-04:00

It's rather obvious that there has been a lack of posts on the actual wedding plans here on the blog. At the start of the planning process, I had every intention of sharing the process on here... all the fun details and decisions. But as planning kicked into full gear, and I actually started checking things off my list, I found that I kept wanting to keep the details under wraps, since many of our wedding guests also read my blog.

So I've decided not to post specific details about my wedding here until after the wedding in July (only 3-1/2 months away!). I know to some it might be a bit of a let down now, but I think it will be much better to be able to recap everything (with pictures!) afterwards. Not that I won't post about wedding stuff, I'd just rather keep the specifics of our actual wedding day a surprise :)

This whole planning process has been a roller coaster of emotions. Most of the stress comes from the fact that I seem to work so doggone much, and I feel like I don't have time to seriously plan, or do anything else for that matter! But we're making progress and I'm excited to see it all starting to come together. Here's some of the big things we've done so far, and some big things we still need to do...

I think we're way behind on the typical wedding timeline checklists, but oh well, we'll get it done! Thanks for sticking with me, faithful readers!

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-04-06T23:42:00.004-04:00

Gosh, I really need to get on the whole "posting on days other than Tuesday" thing. Bear with me... life has been chaotic (mainly my job) and I will be back to posting normally soon (I hope!)

In the meantime, how about we admire this piece of springtime art...

the Badgley Mischka Randee from heels.com

easter

2010-04-04T22:49:00.003-04:00

I didn't dye Easter eggs or get an Easter basket this year, and I hardly ate one Peep. But we were blessed with a gorgeous, bright and sunny spring day, had a wonderful church service and delicious lunch, and enjoyed spending the day outside and at rest. I would say this Easter has been one of the best.

He is Risen, He is Risen Indeed :)

Happy Easter!

image via bhg

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-03-30T00:17:00.002-04:00

I think these would be cute wedding shoes for a bride with red as one of her wedding colors...

Nina Quena Evening Pumps from Macys

dress up

2010-03-24T11:10:00.000-04:00

Anthropologie has a lot of cute dresses right now. Some of my favorites:

they should have named it the 'Betsy'

2010-03-24T08:00:00.001-04:00

I died when I saw this handbag. It was made for me! Peachy-Pink and just like my old Carly bag (which is showing it's age). Oh, to have $360 bucks lying around. If only it were appropriate to put things such as unnecessary Coach handbags on a wedding registry...

leather Brooke bag from Coach

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-03-23T23:04:00.000-04:00

I fancy these Valentino sandals. A little feather, a little structural bow, chic and sophisticated. It reminds me of a fancy English hat.

Valentino Feather Trim Satin Sandal from Nordstrom

C'est Magnifique!

2010-03-17T08:30:00.000-04:00

Who knew I could get so excited about wallpaper, but I saw this on Anthropologie and my heart went a-flutter. I want to cover a whole wall... nay, a whole room in it!

C'est Magnifique wallpaper from Anthropologie

top o' the mornin'

2010-03-17T08:00:00.001-04:00

Happy St. Patty's Day :)

image via here

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-03-16T07:45:00.000-04:00

Black and white; polka dots and frills; cute and preppy!

the Naomi flat from Kate Spade

Time For Cake

2010-03-13T08:18:00.004-05:00

We're having our first cake tasting today (yummy!). Not only are we choosing the flavors we want, but also the design and look of the cake. The first place I went for inspiration is, of course, Martha Stewart Weddings. So many pretty cakes...

all images from Martha Stewart Weddings

letterpress love

2010-03-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

I finally experienced the pure joy of letterpress printing this past Saturday, and fell in love! I took a letterpress workshop with my mother offered by a local press shop and learned how to print on an antique C&P letterpress. We had a great time learning about the craft and printing our own project. There's a lot that goes into creating a letterpress piece, and I now have such a better appreciation for the time-honored tradition. I'm certainly looking to incorporate letterpress into the wedding in some factor. I'm smitten with it.

composing the lead type, letter by letter

printing on the press

our finished product--a beautiful, deep impression

Letterpress Workshop at Railway Station Press in Alexandria, VA. More on letterpress here.

images by me

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-03-09T14:00:00.000-05:00

These Jimmy Choo's are a little outrageous, yet totally intriguing. Talk about flamboyant feet. Maybe I've still got Olympics on the brain, but they remind me of an ice-skating outfit--in all their bedazzled, sheer-cutout glory. :)

Jimmy Choo Embellished Open-Toe Ankle Boots from Saks

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-03-02T21:20:00.003-05:00

It's March! It's Spring! Time for all the pretty new shoe collections to appear, with fab shoes like this:

Brian Atwood Farrah heel

bookish

2010-02-24T20:53:00.005-05:00

Sometimes I wish I worked for a book publisher, so that I could read and be surrounded by books all day. I love reading and wish I could spend more time with good books. I'm finishing up the latest by Lauren Willig right now (lighthearted, comedic historical romances--very Jane Austen and perfectly entertaining) and the next on my list will be the newly released The Swan Thieves by Elizabeth Kostova. Her first book, The Historian, was really good so I can imagine this one will be great as well.

What are your recommendations for good books to read?

P.S. Isn't that library just dreamy? Look at all those books!

image: Old Library Trinity College Dublin via CNTraveler

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-02-23T21:26:00.003-05:00

Not just one shoe today, but three! I went into Banana Republic yesterday for the first time in a long time and was very excited to see a ton of cute new spring shoes. Three of my favorites:

Vera, Naum, and Rumer. They look even better in person.

color and detail

2010-02-19T20:58:00.003-05:00

Love the chic and sophisticated Carolina Herrera Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear collection.

images via style.com

go USA

2010-02-18T23:48:00.004-05:00

So I blame the Olympics for why I haven't been blogging. Has anyone else been watching it all?I've been taping the broadcasts throughout the day and then come home from work and get drawn in to watching the hours of coverage (fact: the Olympics are way better to watch when you can fast forward through all the commercials and replays). All this skating and skiing has really been distracting! There have been a lot of great moments so far...

photos via NBC

love today

2010-02-14T08:11:00.003-05:00

Wishing everyone a Happy Valentine's Day!

May your day be filled with love!

image via Martha

the world on a plate

2010-02-11T11:54:00.004-05:00

We are about to set up a wedding registry at Crate & Barrel (I'm excited!) so I was browsing the website for ideas. I don't think I'll be registering for these, but I thought this set of travel plates was uber-cute and fun for entertaining.

Travel Plates from Crate & Barrel

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-02-09T10:13:00.000-05:00

I don't know whether to consider these pretty or gaudy... either way they sure grab your attention!

Christian Louboutin Beaute Strass Pumps for a whopping $2,225.00 at Barneys NY

masterpiece classic

2010-02-08T11:00:00.000-05:00

I don't know how popular watching PBS on the weekend is, but did anyone else watch Emma on Masterpiece Classic? It's pure Jane Austen perfection!

you can watch it online here

images via pbs

Elie Saab Spring 2010 Couture

2010-02-08T08:20:00.000-05:00

I always look forward to seeing Elie Saab's latest couture creations. His Spring collection this year is full of flowing, flowery fabrics in a palette of soft pastels. Beautiful as always.

Elie Saab Spring 2010 Couture images via style.com

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-02-02T23:51:00.003-05:00

CUTENESS OVERLOAD!!!

These shoes speak for themselves. So cute right?

Well... I just bought them as possible wedding shoes! I'm interested to see how the color looks in person. I couldn't resist!

Blume Printed Peep Toes from JCrew

flirty and fun

2010-02-01T00:25:00.003-05:00

Who's ready for spring? After another significant snowfall this past weekend, I know I am! The retailers are too, with all the new spring lines emerging in stores and online. Out with the sweaters and coats and in with the dresses and sandals. Two of my favorite new dresses that I've seen so far:

Connect Four Reina Dress and Watch Hill Cloey Dress both by Kate Spade

go see it

2010-01-27T23:53:00.004-05:00

Hunter and I saw The Young Victoria last weekend and I must say it was excellent. The costumes are beautiful, the sets are beautiful, and the love story between Albert and Victoria is truly endearingly beautiful.

The soundtrack is also very lovely, in the way of historical film movie scores, and I've been listening to it ever since. Sinead O'Connor (remember her?) came out of obscurity to sing the sweet theme song, and it's been stuck in my head for days.

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-01-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

I was walking through the mall the other day and these beauties caught my eye in the Ann Taylor window. Too cute right? Those varying shades of grey would go with anything.

And if the flats aren't good enough, it comes as a heel too!

Perfect Dahlia Flat and Pump from Ann Taylor

one day...

2010-01-25T23:59:00.004-05:00

The beauty of the Mediterranean never ceases to amaze me. Just look at these views...

images via Conde Nast Traveler

now the fun begins

2010-01-23T07:57:00.002-05:00

Today, I'm going dress shopping for the first time! I've got two appointments at two different bridal boutiques and am super excited to be able to try on some (i.e. lots of) dresses. Could I find "the one" today? :)

image originally found via Sparkliatti

Hello all...

2010-01-20T19:28:00.004-05:00

I'm back to the blog! I blinked and all of a sudden it's two and a half weeks later... Where have I been? Let's just say I clocked in a lot of overtime at work the past couple of weeks. It seems like all I've been doing is working (which I have) and everything else has gone to the wayside, leaving me feeling completely disconnected, tired, and frazzled... thank goodness I'm back to normal life now!

The good news is, that somehow in the midst of the work chaos this whole month, we've actually made some progress with the wedding planning! We booked our DJ, met with photographers, scouted rehearsal dinner locations, and talked with caterers. Oh, and we also got news of our awesome transportation...

...it's good to be back. :)

image from here

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2010-01-05T20:45:00.004-05:00

They may be pricey, but they sure are cute!

Christian Louboutin Greissimo heel from Barneys

Finally!

2010-01-04T08:30:00.000-05:00

Right after Hunter proposed in October, I moved back to Virginia, started a new (and challenging) full time job, kept my part-time job, experienced two deaths in the family, two major snowstorms, two major holidays and about five sets of house guests, all while trying to find the time (and energy) to travel around the state looking for the perfect wedding venue that matched our style and budget. It's been a rather difficult and frustrating process, both for myself, my mom, and Hunter. Not only was it hard to balance wedding planning with busy everyday life, but no matter where we looked, we couldn't seem to find a place that had most of what we were looking for and that just felt right...

Well, after several months of trying to find the venue for our wedding, we've finally booked a place and set the date! I'm happy to announce we'll be getting married July 30, 2010 at Stone Manor Country Club in Maryland.

It's a beautiful outdoor setting that includes a large tent for the reception, which was key for us, since we knew we would need a large enough covered space in case of both inclement weather or the hot July sun. With this venue, we can plan the casually elegant summer evening affair that we wanted.

I'm super excited to have this peace of mind and to be able to tell people the actual date of our wedding. Now I can move forward to the fun things: photography, dresses, food, invites, favors... I can't wait! With only 7 months to go, we have so much to do!

rehearsal dinner dress?

2010-01-03T17:32:00.002-05:00

It's a little early to be thinking about what I'll wear to the rehearsal dinner, but wouldn't this be the perfect peachy dress?

The best part is it's on sale right now.

Slub Silk Betty Dress from J.Crew

2010

2010-01-01T10:24:00.004-05:00

It's hard to believe we're already starting a new decade. Boy how time flies! I'm especially stoked about this upcoming year since I'll be getting married!

Cheers to a fabulous 2010! Happy New Year!

image via MS Weddings

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2009-12-30T00:16:00.003-05:00

Purple velvet never looked so good...

Bevi heels by Brian Atwood

color inspiration

2009-12-28T19:44:00.004-05:00

Since I love them so much, I want to incorporate peaches, and that pretty peachy pink color, into my summer wedding somehow. Drawing from these two inspiration boards, I'm liking the combination of peachy-coral pinks, ivory and golds, with boxwood green and a dash of black as accent colors. What do you think?

inspiration boards from Snippet & Ink

1: Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T09:00:00.001-05:00

Peace on Earth, good will toward men.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!

image from here

2

2009-12-24T18:05:00.003-05:00

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

"Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Luke 2: 4-20

The Young Victoria

2009-12-24T14:25:00.006-05:00

There are a lot of movies coming out that I'd like to see, but at the top of the list is The Young Victoria. It looks like an award-winning historical film and I've heard it's excellent.

3

2009-12-24T14:07:00.003-05:00

After baking all those sweet Christmas cookies, don't forget to package them up pretty to give as gifts. I like the idea of including a little book of favorite recipes too.

images from Martha Stewart

4

2009-12-24T13:48:00.000-05:00

The Nutcracker ballet is one of my favorite things about the holiday season. The music, the costumes, the gracefulness of the dances... it's all very enchanting.

images by Bob Krist from National Geographic Traveler

5

2009-12-24T13:41:00.003-05:00

"Five Golden Rings...."

rings from Kate Spade

Pretty Shoe Tuesday

2009-12-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

Wouldn't complain if these were wrapped among the presents under the tree. Love these shoes.

Valentino bow-detail satin sandals via Net-A-Porter

6

2009-12-21T21:43:00.004-05:00

A fun (and free) Christmas activity is to all pile in the car, turn on the Christmas radio station, and drive around neighborhoods looking for the best Christmas light displays. There's always that one house that goes crazy, with thousands of lights, giant blow up figures, and santa as part of the nativity scene. (Btw, this... is hilarious!)

image via here

7

2009-12-20T21:43:00.003-05:00

Hunter and I still don't have a venue for our 2010 wedding... hence the lack of wedding posts on here, since we haven't really done much solid planning. But I do have wedding on the brain and although I don't envision a wintry wedding for myself, I do think this pink poinsetta theme in this Snippet & Ink inspiration board is simply lovely and would make for a beautiful holiday wedding.

inspiration board from Snippet & Ink; photo credits here

Let It Snow!

2009-12-20T21:00:00.004-05:00

Oh the weather outside is frightful,

But the fire is so delightful,

And since we've no place to go

Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!

There was a major winter storm this past weekend and we got around 16" of snow! So we stayed inside, baked gingerbread cookies, watched movies, and pretty much just lazed around by the fire. It was wonderful :)

Let it Snow lyrics; images by me

8

2009-12-20T20:49:00.005-05:00

Tis the season for giving, and not just to family and friends, but to those in need around the world. If you're looking for a gift that's more meaningful than materialistic, visit World Vision's gift catalogue.

Give the gift of a goat, or chickens. School supplies or clothing. The share of a well, or education for a child. Things that may seem small, but when given, make a huge impact on the lives of needy families in impoverished countries.

Make a donation in honor of your gift recipient, and give a gift that keeps on giving.

via World Vision

9

2009-12-20T20:42:00.003-05:00

So simple and yet so festive. Cute and cheerful flats from Kate Spade.

Fiona flat by Kate Spade

10

2009-12-20T20:36:00.005-05:00

This unique Asian-Inspired Christmas tree is so pretty. The soft colors are so peaceful and calm.

tree from Martha Stewart

11

2009-12-16T23:14:00.002-05:00

This week's Pretty Shoe Tuesday may not exactly be "pretty," but they are cute... and comfy... and warm... and pink... and on sale... so I think they definitely make the cut. ;)

Sherling mocs from J.Crew

12

2009-12-16T23:05:00.004-05:00

Crate and Barrel offers a clever ode to the 12 days of Christmas with a set of twelve whimsical handpainted ornaments, one for each verse of the song.

12 Days of Christmas ornament set from Crate and Barrel