Project Wedding Blog

Eclectic West Coast Wedding by Aubrey Joy Photography

Kate — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:46:25 +0000

I’m sooo crazy about Elizabeth and Cristian’s eclectic style… and the gown, oh the gown. Elizabeth wore a Monique Lhuillier stunner that is incredibly unique and sophisticated. Enjoy their story in photographs by Washington-based photographer, Aubrey Joy.The couple chose The Little Door Restaurant in Los Angeles because of its eclectic feel, knowing that traditional wedding décor was not going to work. Growing up in southern California, Elizabeth has always loved succulents and the desert greenery fit in perfectly with the vibe of the space. Items collected from thrift shops, flea markets and the Pasadena Rose Bowl Antique Fair were used as planters. To emphasize The Little Door theme, skeleton keys were tied to hand-calligraphed manila tags by NJW Calligraphy and displayed as escort cards. Guests were sent home with custom recipe books from the bride and groom, who both love to cook. With so many of their friends and family spread throughout the country, they don’t get the opportunity to share a meal nearly as often as they’d like, making the parting gift particularly sweet and meaningful.

Blissful Wishes to this gorgeous couple, Elizabeth + Cristian!

Photos by Aubrey Joy Photography

Bridal Gown by Monique Lhuillier via She by Cindy

Bride’s Hair by Chris McMillan Salon

Venue: The Little Door Restaurant

Calligraphy by NJW Calligraphy

Cake by Sweet Lady Jane

Band: The Get Down Boys

Event Design by the Bride + MOH, Alexis Eskenazi; Senior Event Producer at Colin Cowie Lifestyle

A Romantic Country Club Wedding by Hustle & Bustle

Kate — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:23:20 +0000

With Valentine’s day just about a week away, we’re indulging in the pink hues and romantic styling of Jenna and Jeff’s wedding at The Los Angeles Country Club. The day was feminine, lovely, a snapshot of classic elegance. Hustle & Bustle Events coordinated everything to perfection; Michael Segal documented all of the special moments and exquisite little details.

Jenna looked positively gorgeous in a fit and flare Alencon lace and silk gown, while the bridesmaids were fresh and pretty in pink chiffon frocks. The ceremony took place just outside of the clubhouse, with sweeping views of Bel Aire and downtown Los Angeles. Chairs were embellished with fabric streamers, which blew gently in the breeze. Jenna and Jeff took their vows encircled by rose petals, which were well-suited for tossing and celebrating after they said ‘I do.’Back in the clubhouse, lace tablecoths, pink hues, and garden flowers adorned the reception. Guests were served signature drinks and enjoyed a dreamy summer Los Angeles evening…

For the full story and complete album head on over to our Real Wedding Gallery…

Photos by Michael Segal Weddings

Event Design by Theresa at Hustle & Bustle

Venue: The Los Angeles Country Club

Bride’s Makeup and Hair by Tyler Wright

Flowers by The Flower Lab

Invitations by Tiny Wren Press

Party Rentals by Dress My Party

Calligraphy by Calligraphy Katrina

Cakes by Rosebud Cakes

Ceremony Music by Ted Nicholson & Manon Robertshaw

Reception Entertainment by DJ Lady Sinclair

Fashion Friday: A New Collection by Kara Janx

Kate — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:24:14 +0000

I just love when the Project Runway designers find fashion success outside of the show! …And even more than that, I love discovering fresh, new bridal collections by contemporary designers…

Without further ado, the bridal + wedding party collection from Project Runway season 2 finalist, Kara Janx:

That’s a whole lotta gorgeous.

Photos via Kara Janx.

Happy Fashion Friday!

The Ten Most Romantic Hotels…

Kate — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:22:12 +0000

We have a little something special for you today! If you’re planning your honeymoon… or perhaps a getaway for Valentine’s day… you’re probably hoping to go somewhere extra romantic. We caught up with travel expert Fathom and they shared their picks for the ten most romantic hotels in the U.S. and Caribbean! Needless to say we’re checkin’ in to see when we can get away and book a stay at one of these romance hotspots… Enjoy daydreaming about your next vaca….

1. Wheatleigh Hotel in Lenox, Massachusetts

Photo: Courtesy of Wheatleigh Hotel

What’s to Love: Very romantic year-round, but especially during the winter months when you can make the most of your in-room fireplace. The gardens were designed by Frederick Olmstead, and the restaurant is incredible.

Good to Know: Tanglewood — the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra — is just down the road. Pack and a picnic and enjoy sonatas under the stars.

2. Twin Farms in Barnard, Vermont

Photo: Courtesy of Twin Farms

What’s to Love: Tastefully appointed everything, smack in the middle of nowhere. Super private, homey, and, even when full, feels like you have the place to yourself. Individual cottages are decorated with the owner’s incredible art collection. A hushed, darkened dining room is set up so that all parties face the fireplace and the kitchen sticks to local goods even in the depths of winter. Meals are made to order according to a pre-arrival food questionnaire; you never see a menu.

Good to know: Go here instead of the nearby ski resorts: There are a half dozen downhill trails on the property and the most fun thing ever is that they cart you around the mountain on snowmobiles. Hit the furo (Japanese soaking tub) on a cold snowy night — a car service brings you to and from the tiny shack which is hidden in the woods.

See More romantic hotels in the Northeast.

3. The Inn at Little Washington in Washington, Virginia

Photo: Courtesy of The Inn at Little Washington

What’s to Love: Consistently ranked as one of the country’s best restaurants with an eighteen room inn. Engagements and special occasions are de rigeur around here.

Good to Know: The Gamekeeper’s Cottage has a bedroom loft that’s like an elegant treehouse.

4. The Villa by Barton G. in Miami, Florida

Photo: Courtesy of The Villa by Barton G.

What’s to Love: Opulent and very private ten-suite villa and restaurant located in the heart of South Beach. Stunning Italian features like the Thousand Mosaic Pool.

Good to know: Yes, this used to be Casa Casuarina, the infamous former home of Gianni Versace.

See More romantic hotels in the South.

5. Wandawega Lake Resort in Elkhorn, WI

Photo: Courtesy of Wandawega Lake Resort

What’s to Love: A Prohibition-era summer camp turned artist retreat with every camp activity from canoeing to archery. A favorite with musicians, artists, and adventurer types.

Good to Know: If you book a teepee, boy scout cabin, or the three-story treehouse, bring extra batteries for your flashlight.

See More romantic hotels in the Midwest.

6. Auberge du Soleil in Rutherford, California

Photo: Courtesy of Auberge du Soleil

What’s to Love: Built as if it grew out of the hillside with an unobstructed view of the Napa Valley. Quiet elegance, privacy, very peaceful.

Good to Know: The service is immediate and understated. There’s no reason to leave your thoughtfully stocked room, but you should for a magical dinner at the restaurant up the hill. The atmosphere is an intersection of nature and elegance.

7. Farmhouse Inn in Russian River Valley, California

Photo: Courtesy of Farmhouse Inn

What’s to Love: Tucked away in the backwoods of beautiful Sonoma, the dreamy hotel has a fireplace in every room, fluffy feather beds, and huge soaking tubs. In the lobby, there are different kinds of homemade bath salts and soaps and they hand you warm chocolate chip cookies and cold milk when you check in.

Good to Know: Rent a car. The Michelin-starred restaurant is amazing and there are several low-key wineries within a short drive. Take the on-site wine class taught by the restaurant’s sommelier.

8. Beverly Hills Hotel in Beverly Hills, California

Photo: Courtesy of Beverly Hills Hotel

What’s to Love: Old-school glamour, secluded bungalows, and the best chopped salad and fries in the world. (Along with the occasional Reese Witherspoon sighting).

Good to Know: It just had a massive renovation, so it’s very old-meets-new.

See More romantic hotels in the West.

9. Carlisle Bay in St. Mary’s, Antigua

Photo: Courtesy of Carlisle Bay.

What’s to Love: There is a European vibe here that makes it feel far away. Very good spa, beach barbecues, and minimalist, tasteful rooms add to the overall Zen aesthetic.

Good to Know: For true romance, book dinner on the jetty for just the two of you, enjoy delicious tuna tartare and beautiful candlelight.

10. Cotton House in Mustique, The Grenadines

Photo Courtesy of Cotton House

What’s to Love: This place is tough to get to, so it keeps other people away. Rooms are utterly simple — billowing linens and soothing, neutral tones — with tasteful plunge pools so you never really have to leave your suite. Dinner is freshly caught lobster on the veranda; there’s a weekly island cocktail party in case you feel like socializing.

Good to know: Bring lots of sunscreen. The rays are seriously strong here.

Find more romantic hotels {here}.

DIY Wednesday: Easy Flower Pot Centerpieces

Kate — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:33:14 +0000

By: Chelsea Fuss for Project Wedding

This centerpiece is high impact, but super easy and inexpensive! The table numbers add a fun, modern touch.

You will Need:
one white flower pot (you can spray paint terra cotta pots if you would like to)
a glass
clippers
water
2 grower’s bunches of seasonal flowers (we used daffodils). It’s about 25 stems.
number stickers
card stock
scissors

Directions:
1. Line the pot with a glass.
2. Fill with water.
3. Trim the flowers so they are at a height that you like. A 2/3 to 1/3 ratio is good!
4. Take a number sticker and attach it to cardstock, cut around the sticker and cut it twice as long. Fold it in the center for a table number. Add another sticker to the back if it needs to be two-sided.

Styling Tip: Add colorful napkins or table linens.

Environmental & Budget Tip: Go with whatever flowers are seasonally available! If you have a color in mind, just tell your florist or grower to surprise you with whatever looks the best.

Project and photos by Chelsea Fuss

Offbeat Vintage Garden Wedding by Love Caryn Photography

Kate — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:12:38 +0000

Andra and Chad look like people that would be crazy fun to hang out with. Their offbeat wedding is undeniably charming and I just love the way Love Caryn Photography captured their vintage style!

The wedding was held at the Vintage Garden Tea House in Montgomery, Texas. There was a romantic garden backdrop for the ceremony and a cozy home for the reception. The couple wove quirky accents into the day like Star Wars action figure boutonnieres and owl masks and décor. The wardrobe, the setting, everything had that retro/Urban Outfitters feel. In fact, that’s where Chad snagged his suit. The maids were dressed in ModCloth.After they said their vows under a canopy of lush greenery, it was time for fun, props and photos!

And for the getaway vehicle? A tandem bike- which wouldn’t have been more perfect.

Happy Marriage to Andra + Chad!

A million thanks to Love Caryn Photography for sharing these photos with us!

Bridal Gown via Artsy Wedding

Venue: Vintage Garden Tea House

Bridesmaid’s Dresses by ModCloth

Men’s Attire by Urban Outfitters

A Fresh + Lovely Real Wedding by Kurt Boomer Photo

Kate — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:55:18 +0000

When I saw Denise and Michael’s album, I was totally taken with the soft colors, the beautiful natural setting, and the fresh photographs by Kurt Boomer. While planning, the couple simply chose a few of their favorite things and planned the day around them: nature, outdoors, and things that are aged and well loved. Enjoy this fresh and lovely real wedding of the week set in Pala, California…Denise found inspiration for her florals while at the farmer’s market one afternoon. A vendor was selling locally-grown proteas at an amazing price; right then and there she ordered them for the bouquets and centerpieces!The organic feel of the wedding invitations by Wedding Paper Divas matched the lush scenery of the incredible outdoor venue, the Secluded Garden Estate.Denise and Michael’s romance is a sweep-you-off-your-feet kind of a story… They met in Las Vegas. It only took the duration of a dinner for Denise to know that he was the one! A week later she moved across the country to be with him.
Michael’s prized 1952 Willys wagon made an appearance; it was the perfect spot for portraits. The couple wanted the reception to feel comfortable and relaxed, like an afternoon at their house with good food, music, drinks, and the people they love the most.

♥

See the full story & album…

Photographs by Kurt Boomer Photo

Venue: Secluded Garden Estate

Invitations by Wedding Paper Divas

Bride’s Hair by Allison Catalano of Grand Creation Salon

Bride’s Makeup by Stephanie Lee of Motives Cosmetics

Bridal Gown by The Limited

Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Individually Sourced

Bride’s Fascinator by Fascinate Me LLC

Rentals by Premier Party Rentals

Catering by Temecula Catering

Fashion Friday: Justin Alexander’s 2013 Preview

Kate — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:54:40 +0000

This is sooo exciting!! Justin Alexander has released an exclusive look at their ‘preview to 2013′ just for our readers! They describe the collection as providing a glance of chic 1920’s, the timelessness of the 1950’s and the originality of today. Distinct embellishments enrich each design to make this collection a work of art. Ornate trims, mille-Feuille layering and hand-pleated fans are just a few of the incredible style elements featured in the collection. We’re totally in love with the rich sophistication, glamour, and texture of these gowns… and best of all, they are moderately priced, so you’ll just look like a million dollars.

You’ll have to wait a few months to see these gowns in stores, but if you’re in love, be sure to bookmark this post! In the meantime, see more from Justin Alexander in the dress gallery...

Happy Weekend!

xoxo

Luxe Irish Castle Inspiration Shoot by Aislinn Events

Kate — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:54:57 +0000

Reminiscent of an enchanting fairytale, Annie Byrne of Aislinn Events designed this luxe inspiration shoot at the majestic Adare Manor in Ireland. An amazing team came together to create the elaborate display of paper goods, florals, décor, dessert and more that perfectly reflected the countryside estate setting. Annie wanted to give a general sense of lushness- warm and a bit smoky with natural textures of leather, fur and pheasant feathers. Feast your eyes on the inspiring photos by Kristen Booth.Cream-toned card stock and gold scripted paper goods by Petite Paper gave a regal impression of age. The color and vibrance of robust jewel-toned florals by Leona Fitzmaurice Lynch just pours thru the photographs. Annie played on the backdrop by styling the model as the “lady of the manor,” complete with oversized estate jewelry by Knightsbridge Boutique, furs, and feather accessories by Karen Flannery Art. The flowing, feminine gowns were provided by DeStafford Bridal. These opposing concepts of soft beauty against strong architectural bones drove this inspiration shoot.

The tablescape and dessert table were an abundant bouquet of rich colors, including pomegranates poised on each place setting ready for the feast and merriment. The four tiered cream fondant cake by Cloudberry Bakery was delicately painted with copper, orange, and golds to create oversize flowers. I’m just loving the painted feathers on the cupcakes too!

Now there’s a photoshoot… Thanks to this extraordinarily talented team of vendors abroad!

Photographs by Los Angeles-based photographer Kristen Booth

Design by Aislinn Events

Venue: Adare Manor

Bride’s Hair by Sandra Crosbie

Bride’s Makeup: Makeup by Ash

Bridal Gowns via DeStafford Bridal

Jewelry by Knightsbridge Boutique

Headpieces by Karen Flannery Art

Florals by Leona Fitzmaurice Lynch

Invitations by Petite Paper

Cakes & Dessert by Cloudberry Bakery

Linens by Got’cha Covered

With video credits to Shane Costello, PR credits to OFD Consulting

DIY Wednesday: Colorful Fortune Cookie Favors

Kate — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 23:10:41 +0000

This little DIY favor project is so bright + fun!Why not give your guests colorful fortune cookies, with an auspicious reading inside?

Learn how to make them {here}.

Photographs and Project Styling by Victoria Hudgins.