Fiore Fresco

A little news, hot off the press!

2012-02-02T20:26:00.000-08:00

Bopping in tonight to tell you a little news...are you sitting down for this? As of a little earlier this week, I've joined up with Junebug Weddings as their newest team member! As part of the editorial team, I'll be reporting on wedding ideas, trends, and stories through their award-winning blog, What Junebug Loves.

Fiore Blossoms? I'll still be here, multi-tasking my little heart out. We have a busy summer booked, and we have PLANS! Plans that involve peonies, boats, huge mercury glass vases, really sweet brides that are becoming new friends, delicate vintage ribbons, and collaborating with some phenomenal wedding planners. I wouldn't miss any of that for the world!

Fiore fresco will still be around as well. Over at Junebug, I'll get my fancy on with gorgeous real weddings and other work submitted by some of the world's best talent in the wedding industry. Please stop by often and visit! And here at Fiore fresco, I'll get to post pictures of my macaron attempts, garden, and silly children; shamelessly self-promote with photos of my pretty flowers and decor; and ramble on about my favorite ideas, books, food, etc. like I've always done.

Looking forward to new opportunities, fantastic colleagues, and learning new things. It's going to be bananas!

Beautiful Baubles

2012-01-26T04:54:00.000-08:00

I'm head over heels for these little repurposed beauties from Alona Freeman. Wedding-perfect, but maybe just right for spring too!

Real Weddings: Olivia + Mike (aka Fairy Tale Beginnings)

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-08:00

Posting Mari and Tim's wedding earlier this week reminded me that I had stashed another beauty from Carol Harrold. Olivia and Mike were married at De Lille Cellars, a gorgeous winery just outside of Seattle (though you'd swear you are in France when you're there). O and M might have been the most loving, sweet couple I've worked with to date. Their path to the alter had had a few twists and turns, and they were truly thrilled to be starting the rest of their lives--together.

At our first meeting, Olivia hilariously described her style as "Goth Chic". I had a such a good time coming up with flowers that would fit that description. Dark callas, burgundy cymbidium orchids, scabiosa and love-in-a-mist pods, hypericum berries, and "Black Bacarra" roses comprised her bouquet.

De Lille's ceremony area is in a beautiful clearing, surrounded by tall trees and fields of fluffy white sheep. We left the decor simple, but framed the entrance to the clearing with two huge foresty masses of foliage and burgundy flowers hanging from wrought iron shepherd hooks. We echoed the design down the aisle with hanging vases of textured arrangements.

Fairy Tale Beginnings. They're real.

Real Weddings: Mari + Tim

2012-01-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

I'm so glad to be looking at these pictures today, in the middle of winter. I don't know if it is Carol Harrold's amazing photography, Inglewood's beautiful grounds, the pretty colors in the summery bouquets, all the lace on my new chuppah, or Mari's gorgeous and infectious smile, but this wedding just feels like SUMMER! And it is the only thing that feels like summer around here right now, so I'm appreciating it that much more. Enjoy!

Let's catch up a little

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-08:00

For some reason, silos (as in those grain storage devices) are a big joke around my husband's office. I haven't even bothered to ask why, for fear of the long had-to-be-there story that would ensue. I guess they all forward each other pictures of silos all the time though, and Steve realized I would love one of the most recent ones. Check this out! A trio of silos that were turned into a house. I love a beautiful house, but I really love a quirky beautiful house.

In other news, Wuthering Heights. I somehow missed this in high school and college, so thought I'd give it a try now. It is SO good. So fantastically gothic, atmospheric, suspenseful. You might want to add it to your 2012 reading list if you missed it as well.

The other day my fave mascara was sold out, so I took a great big fat risk and tried a new L'oreal one. Oh, I guess I should back up and state that I had a short fling with falsies--eyelashes that is--this fall, until the Mr. said they creeped him out. Anyway, this new mascara claims to create falsies out of what you're naturally blessed with. AND IT DOES. Works so well, I can't wear it for everyday because of the Mr. problem. TRY IT. It's crazy good stuff.

Spotted! A gorgeous and affordable ($49.95!) bridesmaid-perfect dress at H&M. Comes in bright orange and smoky charcoal gray.

And finally, super beautiful photos from Carol Harrold tomorrow, of the summeriest summer wedding ever.

Macaron-a-palooza

2012-01-12T08:34:00.000-08:00

A great video about macaron production at Laduree. It's in French, but you can totally get the gist of it. Serious assembly line large-batch macarons going on there, and great fun to see if you are a macaron stalker like me.

And last weekend I made lemon with lemon frosting, and ginger with lemon too. I'm not doing very well on the whole putting-away-the-mixer-and-getting-back-to-work-thing.

And have I told you before? The best ones in Seattle (and I've tasted them all--it was a community service thing so that I could recommend the best ones to everyone) are at Honore.

Best wedding photography 2011

2012-01-05T21:43:00.000-08:00

The always fantastic Junebug peeps have just posted the 50 photos they chose as the best of the year. A few of my faves, but do check out the rest for some serious inspiration and beauty. (Click on each picture to go to the photographer's website).

Real Weddings: Jennifer + Brandon

2012-01-03T09:34:00.000-08:00

New Year's Resolution: stop baking and get back to work! So I'm starting the year off with something that gets me all jazzed up about weddings again--a look back at one of my very favorite 2011 couples. I adored every minute of working with Jennifer and Brandon; they were down to earth, sweet, excited, warm and welcoming. An added bonus was that I got to work with my favorite guys at the same time!

The wedding was at Jennifer's beautiful family home, which had been lovingly and meticulously landscaped for the big day. The rain stopped just long enough for the outdoor ceremony they had dreamed of, in that magical way that happens for special people.

Enjoy the beautiful video by Mitch at Cabfare Productions. He did a fantastic job of capturing the joy and love that was flowing that day. And here's to a happy new year of beautiful weddings for special people!

Jennifer + Brandon: from cabfare productions on Vimeo.

See you next year!

2011-12-30T16:22:00.000-08:00

The boys are having so much fun giggling over the old "see you next year" thing with their friends. Do you remember how funny that was in elementary school? We're reliving it around here--daily, maybe hourly! For the non-elementary school set, here is a different kind of New Year's treat; something delicious to sip as you ring in the New Year. (I promise this won't become a cooking blog. Food just happens to be my favorite holiday activity. My non-holiday favorite activity too if I'm being honest).

I have a few bottles of Ketle One sitting around, thanks to a goodie bag from a recent wedding (I know! How awesome are my perks?), so I'm going to whip up some raspberry cosmos for tomorrow night. A little 2000-late maybe on the cocktail trends, but nothing this yummy should ever go out of style. AND, thanks to Tradewind Tiaras, a thoroughly modern take on cocktail garnishes. EDIBLE rice paper butterflies to rest on the rim of your glass, though any other shape created with a paper punch is possible too, and easy! Gorgeous, glamorous, and so 2012.

Raspberry Cosmopolitans
makes 1 pitcher, about 6 cocktails

2 cups good quality vodka, such as Ketle One or Grey Goose
1/2 cup Triple Sec
1/2 cup Chambord
2 cups cranberry-raspberry cocktail juice
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
fresh raspberries, sugar, rice paper garnish...all the pretty extras!

Mix everything except raspberries in a pitcher. Individual drinks should be poured and shaken in a cocktail shaker with ice before serving. Garnish rim of each glass with sugar (wet rim first with vodka, dip in sugar) and a pretty edible paper garnish if desired. Extra raspberries to float in your drink are a must!

P.S. I'm going to try making homemade raspberry vodka this summer. There is a restaurant in Seattle that has a huge glass container of vodka and raspberries, just sitting there on the bar muddling together and being heavenly in general. It's the most delicious and dangerous concoction, and the reason I first fell in love with raspberry cosmos.

Ok, seriously. Have a safe and delicious holiday. And see you next year!

A little Christmas gift for you...open immediately!

2011-12-19T22:21:00.000-08:00

Hi! It's been such a long time, so I thought I'd pop in for a little holiday cheer. I've been off decorating for other people's holiday parties, throwing a few holiday parties myself, wrapping, baking, tree-trimming, watching Love Actually, building gingerbread houses, visiting old friends...and finding out that it really is a magical season when you are sharing it with a four and six-year old. Mine are literally glowing with excitement right now.

Noah and I had such a good time baking this morning, preparing an old family favorite to ship off to my sweet sisters and brother. Like so many grandmothers, ours used to bake for the whole family, and whether near or far, we always got a box of cream wafers from her. (The "open immediately" package was always the one I was most excited about. The "open later" was usually something to wear, and bless her heart, she was a much better baker than stylist!). Grandma hasn't been able to bake or send cookies for several years, so Noah and I spent the morning channelling all of her baking talent into a little "open immediately" box for my sisters that miss getting one from Grandma.

So these are our family favorite, now for a fourth generation. They don't sound like much when you read the recipe; just three ingredients after all! But the wafers and the filling together are a magical combination...delicate, buttery, flaky, melt-in-your-mouth goodness! Since I can't give every one of you an "open immediately" box for Christmas, a recipe instead.

The Merriest Christmas to you!

Cream Wafers

Cookies:

1 cup soft butter
1/3 cup whipping cream
2 cups flour, sifted

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In bowl of electric mixer, cream butter for 2 minutes. Add whipping cream, and beat on medium for 2 more minutes. On low speed, slowly add flour just until incorporated. Roll dough out to 1/4"-1/8" thick. Cut with small cookie cutters, making sure to do an even number of each shape (they will be sandwiched together later). Transfer cookies to a plate with sugar, and pat sugar into surface firmly, to coat. Place on sheet of parchment on a cookie sheet, and lightly pierce all over with a fork to make tiny dots on surface to prevent bubbles. Bake 7-9 minutes, watching carefully and removing at the slightest hint of browning. Cool completely.

Filling

1/4 cup soft butter
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 egg yolk
1/2 tsp almond extract

drizzle of whipping cream to make frosting a spreadable consistency if needed

Beat all ingredients together, adding just a tiny bit of whipping cream if needed to get a spreadable consistency. Tint with pink or green food coloring if desired.

Sandwich cream wafer cookies together with filling and enjoy!

Ta Da! Introducing...

2011-11-14T22:19:00.000-08:00

Calligraphy services! Copperplate script actually, for those that want the historically accurate name, but otherwise known as pretty writing that makes pretty things like invitations and escort cards even prettier. I don't think I could ever love anything more than flowers, but writing delicate words with a scratchy old pen nib takes a very close second.

I had a few more lovely photos from Molly Magee of La Vie Photography, from Urban Unveiled, highlighting some of the calligraphy work I had on display. I'm offering both envelope addressing and escort cards, and will even do custom projects like the little color swatch folded cards shown below. The sky is the limit on fancy ink colors, beautiful metallics, and even thoughtful postage stamps to make the very first impression of your big event, absolutely perfect. Shoot me an email, and lets get the ball rolling!

Time to put the fun back in dysfunctional!

2011-11-09T10:43:00.000-08:00

Just in time for holidays...Dysfunctional family BINGO! The squares are hilarious, and instead of marking them off as you identify each bad behavior, you get to take out all of your passive aggressive anger by punching out the square. Because what holiday is complete without...

inappropriate attire
questionable parenting
hormonal imbalance
escaping early
self-medicating
repetitive stories

Seriously, this might just be my new go-to gift.

For all those dress requests...

2011-11-02T21:30:00.000-07:00

I'm amazed at how many emails I continue to get, two years later, about the dress I wore in the above picture. Pinterest has spawned a zillion new requests for info about THE DRESS, and even a request to buy it if I still have it hanging around. (I do, I considered, and it's not going anywhere).

But check out this new one at Anthropologie, by the same label and everything! Not an exact match, but I think it has a similar feel. Just thought I'd throw out the suggestion for those that have emailed.

(Top photo by Mint and Sage, flowers by Fiore Blossoms. Personally, I think that big orange Icelandic poppy is even more exciting than the dress...)

Urban Unveiled II

2011-10-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

Another shot of Fiore's blossoms, this one from the sweet boys at Gabriel Boone Photography. I'm so glad they called for flowers, because it was such a treat to meet them! I feel like a new friendship is in the works...can't wait to work with them on Annie and Nicole's pretty nuptials this coming spring. They do gorgeous, modern, clean, artsy sort of work. Thanks for the pretty pic guys!

I'm off to the last wedding for a few weeks...pretty purple and moss green at Hidden Valley Ranch. I mean Hidden Meadows Farm. Whatevs.

Urban Unveiled...the aftermath

2011-10-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

I've been quiet...needed rest after all the fun! Ok, I've also been struggling with a whole party of viruses, throwing a little soiree in their chosen venue...my sinuses. Some lovely pictures of Fiore's blossoms though, courtesy of the lovely Molly Magee of La Vie Photography. Love that girl!

They get me every time!

2011-10-06T14:42:00.000-07:00

I'm a total sucker for trees wearing sweaters.

Did I mention tickets for Urban Unveiled are $45 at the door? And that I have two to give away? Seattle peeps, they can be yours!

Warm and cozy tree pic from Apartment Therapy.

As promised! The party of the year is upon us!

2011-10-03T14:21:00.000-07:00

THE wedding event of the year, Urban Unveiled, returns next Wednesday evening, October 12th, to elegant Benaroya Hall. The excitement is building...plans, ideas, trends, and tips have all been flying around between the very awesome partners that are putting together what is sure to be the best show yet. I personally can't wait to do-up our own space in awesome, vintage, "diamond in the rough" style (this year's theme is diamonds...watch for some serious sparkle and bling). I'm also eagerly anticipating the grand unveiling of Luly's newest collection; all of the spectacular spaces that Seattle's most talented peeps are putting together; and the gorgeous fashions, flowers, and vignettes that are going to be on display. Oh, and did I mention CHAMPAGNE, an excuse to wear a pretty dress, and deelish food???

I have two tickets that are burning a hole in my electronic pocket. This is such a deal! Leave a comment by noon this Friday, and two people will be randomly selected to win tickets. Have fun! (Sorry...give-away not open to industry vendors).

Own, and save! a piece of history...

2011-09-30T11:54:00.000-07:00

Landreth Seed Company, one of the oldest American companies, and THE oldest seed company, is in grave danger of closing soon. Despite a huge resurgence in gardening from seeds in recent years (thanks, economy), Landreth is about to go under. In an effort to make a last gasp for air, they are taking orders for their 2012 BEAUTIFUL catalog now, to be shipped in time for Christmas presents.

A catalog for a gift? Why yes! The catalogs contain engravings of original hand-drawings of heirloom seeds and plants. Historical tidbits of info and tips are included, and the whole thing makes for a beautiful gift for any gardener or lover of botanical drawings. Or anyone that values centuries-old, family-owned companies. The catalogs are $5, and despite their own desperation, they are committed to printing everything here in the US, rather than sending it overseas for a fraction of the price.

Heck, while you're at it, order a few gift cards for your favorite gardeners! Besides heirloom seeds, they have bulbs of all varieties, historical weather instruments for your favorite weather geek, and a lovely little library of beautiful books for sale. Now go shop! Even if it's only that gorgeous, special catalog.

Also, Monday...I'll have two tickets to the Wedding Extravaganza of the Year to give away! You want these!

Pinterested in a lot of stuff...

2011-09-28T11:51:00.000-07:00

Like the rest of the world, Fiore Blossoms is now on Pinterest! (I'm not even going to pretend I'm original, or that I discovered something new, but if YOU still haven't, it's time!). Just wanted to let you know that I've been pinning like mad and starting to collect some great ideas there for tables, flowers, paper, food; anything event related.

And, a few of my favorite go-to's for hordes of ideas:

Perfect Palette...TONS of palettes and gorgeous ideas!: http://pinterest.com/perfectpalette/

Wedding Wishfulness from Leslie Hoggatt: http://pinterest.com/lesliehoggatt/products-i-love/

BHLDN pins! And it's not just their stuff...: http://pinterest.com/BHLDN/

and Jordan Ferney...you know that old Police song? "Every Little Things She Does is Magic". It was written about her! And this is where she collects some of her ideas. I'm glad I get to spy! http://pinterest.com/jordanferney/

A wicked awesome room...

2011-09-24T22:14:00.000-07:00

My wicked (and I use the term in the fondest way and only because she named herself that many, many years ago) step-mother is visiting right now, so I finally got to see the fantastic room she did this past spring for the Showhouse of Art and Design in Marietta, Georgia. If you're looking for any design help in the greater Atlanta area, she is most definitely the woman to work with!

Design by the super talented Ann Gronewald, Antiques and Interiors.

And you call this work?

2011-09-21T11:01:00.000-07:00

Working on one of the many things-in-the-works this morning. Throwing pretty things around and taking pictures for backgrounds. Love this job today. (Details on the pretty things...an antique Chinese calligraphy brush that was a surprise belated b'day gift just yesterday, from a sweet friend. Pretty earrings by talented Abilena; new superfine silk ribbon that is my fave, and will be going on bridal bouquets from here on out; fan coral from a source that claims to be responsibly harvested...hope so. Little bug gems from my own nuptials about an eon ago; and all calligraphy by yours truly. Aren't they pretty escort cards? You too can have such loveliness...)

So many things in the works....

2011-09-19T11:38:00.000-07:00

A magazine shoot...new calligraphy services...a brand-new website with a SHOPPING CART(!!!yes! there will be shopping!), and a whole bunch of other things going on as well. School is underway, Noah has recovered from the flu he got after 1 hour (literally, 1 hour) of school, lots of family on their way from Atlanta, gardening...and feeling so thankful for the return of routine, fall schedules, soccer games, September sunshine, each day.

p.s. The lace chuppah above is new and awesome. I've got it, you want it. Call me.

p.p.s. If you are planning a wedding or a party in the bay area, or if you want to fly them somewhere else, or if you just need to get down, POP FICTION is where it's at. Just came home from a whirlwind 24 hours in San Fran as a wedding guest, and my booty is in recovery. Pop Fiction was so jammin' that I didn't leave the dance floor until the power went out, lights off. I was so dedicated that they gave me an honorary turn on the base towards the end of the night. Sweet. For a good time, call them!

Falling sand

2011-09-15T10:56:00.000-07:00

I'm usually a very frilly, vintagey type girl; one that loves tarnished silver bowls and Grannie's cracked china. So what is this craze I'm feeling for Yukihiro Kaneuchi SAND vases? I love the way they build this sense of anticipation; that at any second the sand could just come tumbling down and leave a naked stem standing there. (Because when it comes right down to it, I'm a girl that loves drama most of all!).

via Design*Sponge

Pretty Quinn!

2011-09-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Such a pretty bride from last year...and a pretty photo from Maurice Photo. Purple phaleonopsis, dark callas, "Black Magic" and "Vino Rosso" roses, and hypericum berries comprised her bouquet. But I think it's her gorgeous smile and bridely glow that really make this picture fantastic.

Real Weddings: Kat + Dom

2011-09-13T11:30:00.000-07:00

Our Seattle calendar got a little confused this year, and it seemed Labor Day was destined to be the first day of summer for us, as opposed to Memorial Day. But one thing about Seattle that most of those naysayers don't know? When it comes, we know how to do summer right. Dom and Kat's gorgeous Alderbrook Labor Day wedding a few weeks ago is proof...the most gorgeous summer day, a long drive down the Peninsula through beach cabin territory, a relaxing ferry ride, and Mora ice cream to wrap it up. Oh, and the wedding was pretty fun too.

If you're too school for cool...

2011-09-12T22:41:00.000-07:00

The boys have finally filled up their backpacks, tied their new shoes, and sharpened their pencils. You might just see me around here more often. In the meantime, I'm finding old-school notebook paper so charming!

1. Notebook tee from Artware Editions 2. Darling pencil pouch by printsandpatterns

More of this later, just working on changing upload method...

2011-09-08T22:19:00.000-07:00

Fodder and down-dog

2011-09-02T21:09:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy day today, getting ready to head out at 5 am for a pretty daytime wedding at Alderbrook tomorrow. And my colleague is worthless...she's too busy practicing doga to be useful. But I can't wait to see these ranunculus, succulents and orchids in action. Oh, and I have to wait around all day after the wedding is set up, so that I can do tear down after. I have to cool my heals for five hours or so on a sunny beach with nothing to do. You people probably think this job of mine is all fun and games with pretty flowers and happy brides, but see how I suffer?

Recent burlap blooms

2011-08-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

I had a few boutonnieres featured recently in a Seattle Bride article about bouts made of non-perishable materials (that's me! numbers 3 and 10 above), which led to these fun pictures of Chelsea and Ian's handsome groomsmen and ringbearer. Ian saw the article (I love a groom that reads a wedding mag!) and five days before the wedding decided he had to change his flower-fashion plans. Short notice be damned...I move mountains for boys that care about flowers.

Have a weekend that is just like this patio...

2011-08-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Holy dahlias. It's technically the flip side of August. Make the most of your late summer weekend with a relaxing, quiet soak in the sun, maybe with a refreshing beverage and a book.

(Or peruse more pretty pictures of the upstate New York escape that includes this sunny corner. I wonder if they take weekend guests?)

Lacecap & Linen

2011-08-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

A recent bouquet, created for a lookbook and some very talented photographers. Lacecap hydrangea, Ilse roses, sweet pea, poppy pods, blush protea, stock, foxtail grass, this and that clipped from the garden...

The OTHER Kate from across the pond...

2011-08-11T11:43:00.000-07:00

Spectacular photos from Kate Moss's recent wedding to Jaime Hince...but would you expect anything less from Mario Testino? Or one of the most photographed women in history? Or anyone wearing a custom Galliano gown? Or anyone posing with a flock of flower girls and a pageboy that look like they fell out of A Midsummer's Night's Dream? Pretty, pretty, pretty!

The tee pees? For the kids to play in! More photos to appear in September Vogue.

(#41) Just a glimpse...

2011-07-28T08:09:00.000-07:00

Oh hello there, Most Fantastic Cake I've Ever Seen!

Via One Love Photo's lovely new blog. If they are in your reader, as they should be, be sure to move with them! Always romantic, always beautiful, with a deliciously vintage feel.

Real Weddings: Danielle + Greg, part II

2011-07-22T08:00:00.001-07:00

A few more of Susie Hamidi's beautiful images of Danielle and Greg's pretty summer day. I loved working on this one! The flowers just felt luscious...pure romance and joy.

Real Weddings: Danielle + Greg, part I

2011-07-20T09:55:00.000-07:00

Pretty summer images today...thank you SO much to the talented and uber generous Susie Hamidi for sharing her gorgeous work. She takes some of the best photos out there! Plus, if you wanna hang out with a genuine, warm person on your wedding day, she's your gal.

Danielle and Greg were married at Willows Lodge last summer, accompanied by sunshine, pastel garden roses and ranunculus, her grandmother's rosary, and the beautiful gardens at the lodge. Enjoy!

Financial advising with Fiore Blossoms

2011-06-23T10:43:00.000-07:00

~~Stocks~~. ~~Gold~~. ~~Coffee can in the back yard~~. ~~Real estate~~. Forever stamps!

I've done a financial analysis for you, so that you can spend your time doing summer things. Since all of the other methods have proved not-so-lucrative in recent years, I propose that we all sell our 401Ks and invest everything in the gorgeous new "Garden of Love" forever stamps by Jose Ortega. I mean, think of their value, when postage rates have increased to $1.25 one-ounce rate! And in the mean time, much prettier to look at than bond certificates.

Ortega says, "Garden of Love depicts the abundance of life, its generosity, whose spirit is to be shared by all its creatures. Love's definition is broader than romantic love. Love is that colorful, full feeling you get when you enjoy being a part of and sharing in the generosity of life." Almost as beautiful as his summery, fanciful art work, don't you think?

Emerging from the forest...

2011-05-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

Don't get me wrong...I LOVE living in my dark little forest, which feels slightly enchanted, and slightly like it's going to eat me in weeds and vines at any given moment. But since summer's arrival seems to be waiting on just the perfect spell, prayer, wish, tribal dance or combination of the previous, I love this light-filled airy abode. Until some sun arrives for longer than an hour, I'm going to dream about sun-bleached floors, a sloped glass ceiling, and floating high above the trees in the loft of my dreams.

Images from elle interiors, via the diversion project. Styling by Nana Lagerman.

Real Weddings: Katie + Casey

2011-05-09T22:58:00.000-07:00

A few of my bad snaps before I get professional pics back...I just got home from the best weekend--San Juan Island, the beautiful old Roche Harbor Resort, a great partner (Katy of Unveiled Events), a super bride and groom (I could just kill myself for not getting a single shot of Katie and Casey! Or the dress! More to come, I promise), a beautiful crystal chandelier we hung, burlap and twine everywhere, the debut of my copperplate calligraphy I've been learning (still a long way to go, but I think the escort cards turned out pretty!), turquoise glass and lace covered hurricanes, and the most fragrant, creamy white peonies ever. Enjoy!

(#40) Just a glimpse...

2011-05-03T07:53:00.000-07:00

Love this eclectic, vintage table number idea. Designsgirl used a sweet vintage candlestick, along with little snippets of ribbon and greenery (oh, and a bit of her lovely calligraphy too!) to make this pretty, pretty table number. Spring is the perfect time to scour the weekend yard sales that pop up everywhere for sweet little candlesticks.

The Royal Blooms!

2011-04-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

A great video describing the process, origin, and design of the pretty, pretty royal wedding flowers! I love this modern couple. Besides the fact that Kate chose to have her dress made by one of my two very favorite designers (the AMAZING Sarah Burton who had the near impossible task of carrying on the Alexander McQueen label after his untimely death last year...and who is miraculously performing the task to perfection), they sourced ALL of their flowers from the various royal properties. Nothing was imported. The resulting designs reflected their heritage, kingdom, natural beauty, and commitment to sustainable practices. The video is gorgeous...tons of lily-of-the-valley, white lilac, and euphorbia. I would have given almost anything just to be part of the giant floral team that pulled this off. It would have been fascinating just to be their water girl or floor sweeper and watch the process!

Kate's bouquet? Petite and elegant, very tasteful and traditional. The bouquet almost echoed the French lace overlay on her dress, being composed of a collection of meaningful but tiny blooms. Love how the small scale of each bloom produced the overall lace effect.

I highly doubt that the meaning behind the floral varieties in the bouquet escaped the detailed princess. Together, the meanings seem to really sum up what we know about William and Kate:

Myrtle: love, joy
Lily-of-the-valley: purity, sweetness
Sweet William (awww!): gallantry
Hyacinth: games and sport

The mastermind behind all of it was Shane Connolly, "Supplier of Flowers for Events, by Appointment to HRH The Prince of Wales". Report over for now...off to drink a boatload of coffee after my middle of the night wedding vigil. Happy weekend!

a personalized Welcome! for tired traveling guests

2011-04-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

My fancy espresso machine that is one of my most prized possessions is on week four at the repair shop...which means I've been spending a lot of time thinking about coffee. Ok, I always spend a lot of time thinking about coffee, but I just appreciate a steaming pick-me-up more than ever right now, since it's a little harder to get. But I've been thinking this morning, as I'm drinking some Starbucks VIA--which is actually surprisingly good!--how much I love my favorite mug.

It's a mug with a beautiful swirly "A" that one of my favorite brides gave me after her wedding. It's fun to have a personalized mug with your initial, and there are several great ones out there! I think they'd be a great gift to tuck into welcome bags with some local coffee. They show that you really thought about each guest individually, and they'll think about your event for years to come whenever they are having a cup of something cozy.

1. My favorite! I use mine everyday. 2. Pretty, casual colors 3. Bold initial 4. DIY...so charming, and looks like it would be easy 5. One more 6. The pretty Missus mug

If you are in Seattle, some of my very favorite coffees are from Caffe Fiore (and not just for their awesome name!), Zoka, and Stumptown. Stumptown is really from Portland, but is so delicious that I'd consider bending the local rules a little and using it since they have opened a store here now.

Real Weddings: Kristin + Trevor II

2011-04-27T12:57:00.000-07:00

A few more details from Kristin and Trevor's beautiful October wedding at the Rainier Club. Thanks La Vie for the beautiful photography! And a huge thank you to Kristin and Trevor for the opportunity to be part of your day. You were a joy to work with!

Real Weddings: Kristin + Trevor

2011-04-21T14:32:00.000-07:00

I've been so remiss in posting these beautiful images that La Vie Photography took of Kristin and Trevor's wedding last October. It was an elegant, cozy, and STYLISH soiree. Kristin (both on her wedding day and at every meeting we had) is absolutely gorgeous with impeccable style...very tailored but feminine. (Kristin--I'll trade you anniversary flowers every year for some free personal styling help, any day!). Their chosen venue was the Rainier Club in Seattle. It's a fantastic old club. It manages to be beautiful and luxurious, but also very comfortable without the least bit of stuffy going on. And La Vie! I seriously can't ever get enough of Kim and Adam's pictures. They are always magical. Enjoy!

Pretty lighting at Pravda

2011-04-20T18:59:00.000-07:00

Yummy centerpieces!

2011-04-16T15:44:00.000-07:00

Soft, romantic white bouquets full of texture, blowsy ruffly blossoms, tight green buds, and fragrance are one of my very favorite looks for brides. While being somewhat traditional, I'm happy to report that they also seem to be the chicest trend this year.

I love how the bride that carried the bouquet shown above used it as an inspiration point for the table centerpieces (that's pretty common), but in a delightful and unexpected way. She ordered a cake for each table, decorated with blooms that complimented her gorgeous bouquet. Each cake was slightly different, and each was cut later to serve the guests that had enjoyed it as a centerpiece during the dinner hour.

The beautiful cakes and sugar flowers are from Perfect Endings in California. You could also order cakes through your baker, and organic pesticide-free flowers from your florist. I hope someday my centerpiece construction for an event means decorating 15 beautiful cakes!

It seems people are really trying to bring unique elements into their ceremonies and receptions. I think I speak for everyone in the industry when I say that we see some incredibly creative, successful, meaningful, and beautiful twists on tradition...and we also see some complete flops! I think this would be such a memorable and yummy twist on the expected!

Flowers by Kathleen Deery Design, Cakes by Perfect Endings, via Martha Stewart Weddings.

If I wasn't facing a mountain of paperwork...

2011-04-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

I'd be...sitting on one of these fantastic toadstools (from Sugar & Fluff),

drinking this seriously pretty Ramos gin fizz (made by Bryn Lumsden of Rob Roy via Seattle Met),

ordering these fantastic stickers for all of the soon-to-arrive-babies around here (no! not at my house!). They stick to a onesie and look just like they've been ironed on, but peel right off. How perfect for photos throughout the first year! Created by a Seattle mom, and also available with tummy stickers for those pregnancy photos, and years through 12.

Weekend recap

2011-04-10T20:15:00.000-07:00

The short version...work, , coffee, work, eat, music, work, music, sleep from 2 am - 6 am, work, work, coffee, coffee, music, snap a photo of the rainbow that all the work had produced, go to wedding. Work, work, cry as bride and groom walked down to "Forever" by Ben Harper, work, work, eat awesome meal, work, work, get some blessed sleep! More pictures of Carina and Matt's awesome event soon.

Tidbits

2011-04-07T22:20:00.000-07:00

A few tidbits, with very little writing. My brain is tired from collecting an entire rainbow of blooms today, in preparation for Carina and Matt's celebration on Saturday. (Think blank-slate art gallery with reclaimed wood floors and 40' high ceilings...black and white damask...flowers in every shade of the rainbow, gathered into dramatic monochromatic bouquets).

Oh, what do we have here? A sweet girl with some...bird wings?

Well, how lovely! Why haven't we all made ourselves a pair of these yet?

A very interesting article from the NYT Home & Garden section this week. I'm fascinated by the role of the economy on visual aesthetics within our homes; particularly the meaning of the interiors that an economic slump produces. And maybe this explains my shelves of dead things in my living room (coral, alliums, shelf fungus, Araucana eggs, feathers, birds' nests, even a crocodile head--it comes together, really!). And interesting to consider how the current decor will be perceived in years to come. Just read it already.

Thanks Urban Unveiled for featuring Fiore Blossoms this week. Love you guys, everything you do for the Seattle (and beyond) wedding industry, and being part of your group. The feature shows a few of my all-time favorite flower photos, and a little more info about my background and favorite wedding moments.

Do you ever think about this situation? About the universe, scale and perspective? I do.

Weird Science

2011-03-31T09:00:00.000-07:00

Been on another blog hiatus...had a lovely journey to Atlanta and Birmingham to visit the fam. It was heavenly and fun. The wild invasive purple wisteria was blooming; we hit a million consignment and thrift shops; and dined at the restaurants belonging to my all-time favorite one, two Top Chefs. Oh, and stayed up late, ate coconut waffles, ogled houses, and talked, talked, talked!

Meanwhile, the inner (ok, often outer!) geek in me has fallen in love with these science pillows. Available from Heather Lin Home.

March 4, 2011. Today, I...

2011-03-04T21:45:00.000-08:00

Finally understood why crazy, wonderful, kind Taguchi-Sensei that I met in Japan several years ago, always wore silly sock with toes (with Birkenstocks no less--no your typical Japanese fashion). He was a tiny man that ran a gazillion miles every day. I have these weird toes that step on each other when I run, so when I saw Mr. Taguchi's socks at the running store, I couldn't resist. Wearing them around the house, I already love them. I'll give a running report as soon as I get off the couch, in case there are other toe-freaks out there. I promise not to start wearing Birkenstocks though.

I got some fantastic photos from La Vie from a few events last summer. Real Weddings coming next week!

Saw The Adjustment Bureau. Better than Jason Bourne!
Saw Dravus with the hiccups. And a great Dane with hiccups is pretty funny!
Received an email from Gayle that we try Book Bindery, a restaurant on Queen Anne. Doesn't it look perfect? And the menu lists "Caramelized Sea Scallops with winter citrus, sunchokes, and Marcona almonds". I'm going to dream about those scallops tonight.

Found this lovely tumblr site (though I still have NO idea what tumblr is...anyone? Do I need to know this?) that is ADDICTING. Things Organized Neatly. I can't stop thinking about all of the things I have around here that I could organize and photograph. I think I'll actually dream about rows and columns of sea scallops with almonds.

Maybe the neatest view of a rose ever. Love Thomas Edison's laboratory, and did any other Anthros besides downtown Seattle do the pennies-but-with-toast a few months ago? It was pretty awesome.

Thursday thoughts

2011-03-03T12:23:00.000-08:00

I was super-excited in January to hear from my favorite guys that a wedding we did together last spring was featured that day on VERA WANG's blog!!! And then I promptly forget to brag about it here, until reminded by my Gayle.

Check out Sylvia and Matt's pretty, pretty day at Vera's.

In other news, hyacinths are available! Well, hello there spring! It's nice to see you again.

And I love this home and couple featured this week in the NYT Home & Garden section. He describes their relationship as "I make stuff. And she tries to explain it." Their home is witty, eclectic, and original. I love his G(love) project, and how he got bored one day and took a jigsaw to the Saarinen tulip table to carve some Godzilla sized-bites--so that he could excitedly tell his little boys when they returned home from school that his lunch had just been sitting there and a monster came up ate it. They live by the directive:

"Do something. Then do something to that. Then do something to that." --Jasper Johns

Wishing for spring....

2011-03-01T13:22:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous hairpieces from adaptation's.

bookcases from Belle Maison, because I always love doors surrounded by bookcases.

Lovely and unusual ceremony decor...straight from a Parisian sidewalk. (And Photosmashing)

I'd love to have these upcycled herb markers from Monkeys Always Look via Design*Sponge.

A plummy cake via {ritzy bee}.

This incredible bouquet that Sarah over at Saipua did for an April wedding last year. It's loaded with dogwood, anemones, tulips, peonies, and TEXTURE. Did you know flowers can talk? Because this is screaming SPRING! Photo by Karen Wise.

Foxy pop-ups

2011-02-26T13:51:00.000-08:00

Pop-up everything seems so hot right now (restaurants, shops, markets...), but I'm especially loving the idea of a pop-up party. Sometimes its totally necessary, but I love the look of over-the-top color, pleats, and crispy fluff. I'm busy planning several events at a couple of Seattle's great blank slate, urban loft venues, for this coming summer. These would look fantastic in that kind of space.

Want to try it? The trick is to go completely over the top...festoon every rafter, pole, wall as much as possible. If your tissue paper swags are too scarce the look will end up more church-hall-with-white-tissue-paper-bells than the flirty-fun-foxy party look you're after.

Originally seen on MS of course, with a few great sources being partycheap.com, bulkpartysupplies.com, and lunabazaar.com.

Happy Friday!

2011-02-18T08:42:00.000-08:00

Flowers by Fiore Blossoms.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T08:03:00.000-08:00

Hope you day is filled with love, flowers, friends, and pretty cards with sweet words!

Bouquet by Fiore Blossoms.

Totally perfect.

2011-02-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

via Kiss the Groom...wish I knew who created this masterpiece though!

Some pressing news...

2011-02-08T06:00:00.000-08:00

One of the best parts about being involved in the Seattle wedding industry is meeting other wedding peeps. I think that some of the most talented and nicest people anywhere are right here in Seattle. And one of my very favorites is my friend Tara Bliven of Ephemera Press.

Tara just REIMAGINED Ephemera, which included launching a fresh, gorgeous site and starting a line of ready-made cards. She's set up now to make ordering her fantastic (and I mean FANTASTIC!) letterpress invitations and announcements super easy, yet the result is still totally personalized and unique. And quite frankly, those wraparound address labels (shown in the "Connection" collection below) are totally precious.

For people who just love letterpress, sending pretty cards, or need to tell someone they're special (even a good friend...I love the new cards that say "I like you!"), Tara has ready made cards with a cute little waterfall of hearts, available in sets of four. She also is taking 10% off of everything through the end of the month, so it's a great time to get invitations ordered and checked off the to-do list, or just treat yourself to a little pack of pretty cards. Just enter code REIMAGINE at checkout.

P.S. If you're ordering invitations to get them crossed off the to-do list, Tara also offers calligraphy services to cross one more to-do off the list! I've been keeping it a secret, but I've been taking a few classes and working on my own calligraphy skills because I really do like sending pretty letters. Tara and I get together for chatting and writing a few times a month, and believe me! You do want her to address those envelopes. She does GORGEOUS stuff!

Not a creature was stirring...not even a mouse!

2011-02-07T14:59:00.000-08:00

On a recent trip to Portland I fell in love with these little German mice tucked into little matchbox beds at Ink & Peat. I saw them again this weekend at Lucca in Seattle and remembered how charming they are. Each sweet little felt mouse is tucked into a pretty matchbox with its own little pillow and blankie. I know some kids love anything in boxes or containers, and I think this is perfect. Or perfect for an adult that just needs a little friend to brighten their day! Available at Ink & Peat, and Lucca.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch...

2011-01-31T22:43:00.000-08:00

Desperate times call for desperate measures! In an effort to get finally potty-trained Noah into undies (He had firmly rejected all that were offered. Even the gift of a pair that sported the beloved Swiper, on Christmas morning, resulted in a sobbing tantrum in the middle of the festivities.), I spent the weekend making custom boxers for the boys. Noah said he'd wear boxers if he got to pick the fabric, and of course Hayes had to have a pair too. Exhibit A: Police and flame boxers, modeled by their very happy owners. Success!

And Exhibit B: Pictures finally of the newest member of the family! Meet Dravus, the two year old, super sweet and mellow, slightly giant, and very cuddly harlequin great Dane that I adopted at Christmas. Speaking of happy owners! Other than the beloved Frye boots she chewed up, I couldn't be happier that for my first dog ever I went big. I promise to do my best not to let this become ode-to-Dravus instead of Fiore fresco, but I'm not making any promises.

(couch time with best bud Noah, watching Madagascar together)

Unveiling February 14th...

2011-01-27T11:25:00.000-08:00

Something big from Anthro is coming...BHLDN, a wedding division! If it is anything like their everyday and party offerings, or beautiful stores, it will be a feast of delicious ruffles, details, sparkle, and texture.

Check out the pretty trailer they are using to create a buzz here, and then mark your calendars for the grand unveiling on Valentine's Day.

And...don't forget about the talented and dedicated artists making sparkly ruffles, swirly invitations, accessories with glorious patina on Etsy. Amazing inspiration and gorgeous products are already available there!

Last chance to visit fairyland...

2011-01-18T15:17:00.000-08:00

One of the (or maybe THE) most enchanting places in Seattle is soon closing it's doors. Souvenir, a little dreamworld created by the talented Curtis Steiner, is being evicted so that an elevator shaft can be installed in the building it has inhabited for eleven years. I tried to explain the beautiful intrigue of Souvenir to someone recently, but it is so difficult to put into words. Besides the exquisite windows (two of which are shown below) that Mr. Steiner creates, the tiny store feels a little like Alice in Wonderland, a little like a fantastical jewelry box, and a little like sneaking into your crazy, eccentric Uncle's house to go through the nightstands. But most of all, more than any other shop/store/gallery I've ever been in, it really feels more like an experience than a store. A trip to Souvenir always felt a little like a spa day for the creative part of the brain...inspirational, replenishing.

Mr. Steiner (currently wearing black, accesorized with a black mourning armband) says that he will be reinventing rather reopening, and has a potential location chosen. I'm keeping my fingers crossed it won't be too much of a reinvention, but I can't imagine him creating anything less than magical.

(Beautifully intricate masked animals of vintage paper by Patti Grazini)

Souvenir will be open until February 6, and currently has an excquisite funerary window dedicated to itself. Treat yourself to a trip before it's gone. And the huge wooden counter with a gazillion drawers is the nightstand part...they are meant to be opened! I found the gorgeous vintage wallpaper I just installed in my bedroom there; the pictures of which will be posted soon.

Au revoir Souvenir! I'll miss you dearly. (The full sad story is available here and here.)

And...I'm back!

2011-01-10T08:30:00.000-08:00

Good news! The long hiatus (thanks to a Beta version of IE that went very, very wrong) is over. I've been busy, with lots to share soon. A new family member (Ruff!), and beautiful bedroom remodel (a little Bollywood, a little fairytale, a little brothel...a whole lot of awesome!). Inspiration, and some shots of recent work. Can't wait to share.

*Photo of Kansas City Arts Incubator, via 100 Layer Cake.

A sense of place.

2010-12-06T16:26:00.000-08:00

"Minka" trailer from Birdling Films on Vimeo.

Hauntingly beautiful trailer for "Minka", the story of a 250 year old farmhouse in Japan, and the meaning of home.

By Davina Pardo at Birdlings Films.

A pink pimp and Gagallet...

2010-11-03T22:17:00.000-07:00

Warning: the following post is being written under the influence of quite a quantity of cold medication. The content may or may not reflect this.

Last weekend marked the occasion of my first Halloween wedding. Black and white damask, orange ranunculus, old dusty books, mercury glass, black chandelier crystals. A REALLY fun couple. And the following pick-up crew...

Also, if you are on twitter, I have a job for you. Or a favor to ask. Or something that you're going to want to do anyways once you hear about this. (And if you're not on twitter--whether it's because you don't care about it or because you're boycotting it--this is what will break you.).

Are you sitting down? Pacific Northwest Ballet. A full length production. The entire soundtrack.......wait for it.......Lady freakin' Gaga!!!!! Word on the street is that it could happen, with more signatures on the twitter petition (seriously! a twitter petition? is this what grassroots looks like in 2010?). Just tweet something like "I'm bluffin' with my pointe shoes" or "Boys, boys, boys...we like boys in tights!". Whatevs. But just follow it with #pnbgaga. And that's how you sign a twitter petition. And make yourself my new best friend.

And if you need some motivation (as if!), remember this?

Words

2010-11-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Books. Deconstructed. Recreated. Breathtaking, complex, tactile.

Sculptures by Boukje Voet.

A not-so-itsy-bitsy SPIDER

2010-10-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

The spookiest cake I've ever seen! Spotted in a store window of our local bakery. Normally I'd shudder from those fake flowers, but that giant fuzzy clinging tarantula takes the cake!

Happy Halloween! I'm off to make finger jello.

Urban Unveiled 5.0 photos

2010-10-26T14:00:00.000-07:00

Some snaps from Urban Unveiled a few weeks ago. The show was a huge success...beautiful and inspiring ideas everywhere, some super sweet and fun 2011 brides, and an AMAZING fashion show from Luly Yang. I have to admit, her shows are always pretty incredible, but some years they are a little "runway" for me; beautiful, but nothing I'd wear myself. This year though...I was coveting EVERYTHING. My only regret of the show was that I was upstairs during the fashion show, so none of the pictures turned out. I so badly wish I had one of the grey silk ball dress with embroidered pink flowers. It's not "wedding-y" at all, but is my new "if I could do it all again" dress.

Anyway, enough fashion talk. First pictures are of the Fiore Blossoms space, of course! Daylight during set-up, and then night time with all of the elements of my "Urban Picnic" in place. I loved the burlap ribbon through the Chivari chairs, and the antlers coming out of the arrangement. The beautiful table number sign is from Paper Moxie (thanks Sheryl!). In the last picture, you can see the evil that I had to look at all night--the Trophy Cupcake tower! The raspberry lemon ones were my kryptonite.

The sweet little vintage space created by a couple of my favorite ladies...the girls from 1000 Words Photography. Sheena from The Invisible Hostess designed the most amazing glowing table, and Sam Day does an entire oil painting of the event DURING the event every year.

A pretty pink dress I love (from Moms, Maids, and More), Flora Nova's dramatic columns and white orchids (I know, strange to put another Seattle florist on here, but Christiane and I have always been very good friends. She has been a mentor and confidant to me, and I think there will always be enough weddings for the both of us!). And I have to include the True Colors Events table in the photos. My three favorite boys in all of Seattle are a given, but I think Travis and Jesse are in the lead for spots four and five.

Black and white damask is still huge, and the W Hotel did it beautifully. Look at that cake! And Abaloria jewelry is always exquisite. Someday.....

A couple awesome cakes from a new Urban Unveiled partner, The People's Cake, followed by a shot of Benaroya, all dressed up for the party!

(#39) Just a glimpse...

2010-10-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Billy Balls, Craspedia, those-little-round-yellow-thingys...whatever you call them, the little round yellow thingys seem to be a huge favorite right now. I've been loving them for adding texture and their soft gold, not at all harsh, pop of color. This image from Ryan Ray Photography (via Junebug's image gallery--an AWESOME resource!) shows how pretty they can be as the feature flower. Crazy cute, huh?

Recently blogged

2010-10-21T22:51:00.000-07:00

A few favorite Fiore weddings have been making the blog rounds recently. First, Sylvia + Matt's vibrant fete at the Four Seasons Seattle was featured by True Colors Events earlier this week. It's not very modest, but I have to say that I loved the designs that Sylvia, True Colors, and I came up with to complement the gorgeous ballroom at the stunning new hotel. Check out how lush modern can look, the TALL orange pieces, and how striking a monochromatic palette can be. Oh, and how much fun Sylvia had! (Photos by Sarah Rhoads Photography).

Nicole + Dave, one of my all time favorite couples, were featured as a Junebug Real Wedding and on their Photobug blog.

Their wedding was romantic, lovely, and very Seattle (though locals will know that the venue was on the Eastside!). Misty rain, lush flowers, and sunbreaks with killer views. Top it all off with Nicole's fantastic fashion sense, and you've got yourself one perfect little wedding. (Photos by La Vie Photography). Enjoy!

Urban Unveiled 5.0

2010-10-11T17:10:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again! Urban Unveiled, the chicest little cocktail party/wedding extravaganza you'll ever be invited to, is this Thursday! And consider this your invitation...to an evening filled with amazing food, flowers, wine and signature cocktails, fashion, music, pretty paper...It promises to be a really fantastic evening.

The party starts at 6:00 pm at Benaroya, which means the drinks and food will be flowing! Luly Yang will have an exclusive fashion show at 8:30; the Art of Giving raffle will conclude the night at 9 pm. The whole shebang is seriously awesome, inspiring, full of creative ideas, and the absolutely best place to find your vendors. All show participants are there by invitation only, with the hosts being none other than Travis and Jesse from True Colors Events...you know, the sweet, clever, and oh-so-cute boys that were just awarded "Best All Around Wedding Vendor" by Seattle Bride's best of 2010. Which means, to my way of thinking, that you could sort of consider the show a super huge bargain. You'll be getting their expertise and recommendations for their favorite vendors and sources of all things wonderful!

Check out The Talent section of the Urban Unveiled website for a complete list of the participants, and check out Jesse's blog for great real weddings, beautiful photos, and details that will make you drool! Seriously, these are awesome people that I feel so lucky to be included with.

All of the images included here are from last year's event. This year's theme/inspiration reflects one of the hottest trends in decor right now--Woodland Glamour. Could anything be more perfect for a gorgeous Seattle wedding?

Tickets are available on-line (and you'll save $10 buying in advance--they will hold them at registration for you) and at the door. I'll be hanging out upstairs, perhaps in a sugar coma. I love you guys, but WHY did you have to put me next to Trophy Cupcake?

First day

2010-09-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

Just yesterday...

Fast forward to this morning...

I'm remembering something someone wrote in a book they gave us when he was born...

"The nights are long, the hours are forever, but the years will pass in mere seconds."

Quick hello in the midst of the crazy

2010-08-11T22:49:00.000-07:00

Yep, still here! It's been a wild ride of a summer, with the end in sight in the very far, far distance. As the wedding march began, my camera embarked on a death march that kept pace. Still getting used to the new one, but thought I should share a few images of what I've been up to since I last dropped in here.

(#38) Just a glimpse...

2010-06-29T11:04:00.000-07:00

of tropical done right! I'm not usually a huge fan of tropicals--I think because they always seem sort of stiff and waxy, as opposed to lush and romantic. I've always been more of a garden rose and peony kinda girl. Posting this though because it's a softer, romantic tropical bouquet...need to keep it here in case I'm ever in the need of a little tropical inspiration. (Of course, if I do book a tropical wedding, I will immediately book a trip for research purposes only). Bouquet via Style Me Pretty.

Weddings, GaGa concerts...

2010-06-23T11:36:00.000-07:00

...both perfect occasions for a birdcage veil. Brilliant, creative, I-wish-I-had-even-10%-of-her-talent Jordan just wrote directions for Project Wedding. All you brides, knock yourselves out. My fellow GaGa girls--they look so easy that I think I'll whip one up for each of us, in four different GaGalicious colors.

Sylvia + Matt

2010-06-18T16:25:00.000-07:00

Just a few preview pictures from Sarah Rhoads...of a beautiful orange and slate wedding we did together a few weeks ago. I love that first picture of Sylvia--it perfectly captures how I would describe her...beautiful but unfussy, modern but classic, elegant but FUN! It was my first time working with Sarah and her husband Chris, and they were sweet, talented, and so stylish themselves. The rest of the team? Pretty much perfection, and I wish I could work with them all every week. They might just make up my allstar team.

Photography: Sarah Rhoads
Planners: Jesse Brix and Travis McBurney from True Colors Events
Venue: Four Seasons Seattle (their ballroom...amazing. their staff...amazing.)
DJ: Austin Beaver
Flowers: Fiore Blossoms

You'll be seeing more of this one when the final images are ready. I can hardly wait!

The Lusty Lady? Pretty much a Seattle institution, probably because of their awesome signs (I like to give my city the benefit of the doubt, and choose to believe its not because of what must be inside). They did have the BEST signs ever. Witty, bawdy, even charming occasionally, and sometimes very current and smart. After a million years in Seattle, they are no more as of this June, so Sylvia and Matt got one of their last signs. Which just goes to show how far Jesse and Travis will go for you. It was a complete surprise for the couple, orchestrated by the guys. See why I love them?

Lovely

2010-06-17T16:20:00.000-07:00

Though I deeply admire anyone that can get some paint/ink/chalk onto paper in any form that invokes beauty or emotion (since I can't do it at all), I don't own enough original artwork. The majority of framed things on my walls are botanical prints (flowers, butterflies, birds, mushrooms etc.), with a few antique enamel French street signs and flea market architectural images mixed in. My very favorite pieces I own though are four original tiny watercolors I bought from an equally tiny old lady who paints on the bridge in Paris that has a view of Notre Dame. They are beautiful little Paris city-scenes; so quaint and charming without even a touch of icky cuteness.

But now I have the sweet little watercolors of gollybard on my wishlist. I didn't realize I was such a tiny watercolor fan, but I just love these so much. (No, Holly from gollybard did not contact me, offer me free art for pimping her out, or beg for a little blog mention. Much to my chagrin, damn it!). Charming and quaint, without even a touch of icky cuteness. Perfectly lovely, and destined for my walls I believe. (Husband...are you reading this???)

All images from Gollybard aka Holly. Gollybard's etsy shop; blog; flickr stream

Risk-taking

2010-06-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

Be brave today...tell someone something that's been on your mind. Wear the outlandishly awesome dress you love, paint some furniture the color of mandarin oranges or new fern leaves. Ask for help. Ask for the promotion you've deserved for a long time, reconnect with a lost friend, say no if you are a yes-person. Commit. Give...more time, money, or love than you think you have.

Scared? Let this inspire you.

p.s. I'm practicing what I'm preachin at y'all, and just submitted my resume and application for something scary. I'll let you know if and when things unfold.

Cobra lilies are blooming!

2010-05-31T05:00:00.000-07:00

Any takers? They're glorious. (And anyone that has ever hung out with me after a crazy wedding set-up knows I don't use that word lightly.)

Loving lanterns

2010-05-28T11:12:00.000-07:00

From Matthew Robbins Design (who I love even more than I love lanterns).

Pretty Walls

2010-05-24T05:21:00.000-07:00

Lovely new wallpapers from Amy Butler, with great prices from Graham & Brown.

Real Weddings: Melissa + Michael

2010-05-23T13:25:00.000-07:00

I'm out of town for a few days, visiting family and celebrating Jamey's graduation. Even with sisters to catch up with, I still have a lot more work time than usual since the little boys were left at home. I'm figuring I should use the chance to post a few of last year's real weddings I've never gotten to, before this year's start coming back. First up is a late November one from Seattle's World Trade Center. It's such a downtown type of room...circular with that relief map on the ceiling, LED lights, and a great view of the water. Melissa wanted to go bold with dark, dramatic red roses used by the boatload. Her bouquet...gardenia, stephanotis, callas, and roses.

(#37) Just a glimpse...

2010-05-17T09:48:00.000-07:00

of the top candidate for my if-I-could-do-it-again wedding. Vera Wang Spring 2011.

Off to the zoo with the little boys today, to thank them for days of putting up with "Momma is busy! I'm going to have to play with you later. Want to watch a show?" while I was working on Sylvia and Matt's pretty day. It went splendidly well, thanks to friends that pitched in to set-up, pick-up, and watch those little boys. I had a marvelous time working with some of the most talented and lovely people I've ever worked with. Sylvia knew how to pick 'em! Pictures to come!

Recentish pictures

2010-05-12T15:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary! Katie + Grant

2010-05-07T11:10:00.000-07:00

I just realized this morning while putting inspiration pictures together for a client, that after I posted a preview of my very favorite wedding EVER, I never inundated y'all with a million shots of the most beautiful bride, handsome groom, cute bridesmaids (haha!), fun truck, pretty flowers in the most summery colors, and thoughtful little touches. So, here they come!

Happy Anniversary to the happy couple, last Sunday. I love you both! I'll always treasure my dear sister Katie Bug's wedding; we got to spend more time than ever before while planning, celebrating, showering, bacheloretting, etc., AND I got a new bro that day. Love ya Grant! Somehow, you've fit right in and made yourself at home with us crazy Gronewalds.

I'd say that you deserve a prize, but you already got her.

I'm going to refrain from explaining the pictures throughout, because you all know how much I hate blogger and the photo/layout thing. Very short explanations of a few and vendor credit at the end.

Truck was from a family friend of Grant's, and ended up almost stealing the show that day. Cute boy next to me when I'm on the roof of it is my awesome brother Jamey, little sister Kerry is the bridesmaid with the long beautiful auburn hair. Boy birdie on top of the cake was wearing a custom made little tiny "Roll Tide!" hat for Grant; blackberry on top of groomscake was Katie's gift to Grant to recognize that she already knew he had a mistress she'd never be able to compete with. Coffee bean favors from K&G's favorite date spot; beautiful twig table was made by a close family friend that had just passed away a few weeks earlier. Oh, and I couldn't resist adding a photo of my own lovebird. Photos by Mint & Sage, all jewelry by Katie (Abilena Studio), all planning by Katie, flowers from Fiore Blossoms on location in Birmingham, Alabama.

(#36) Just a glimpse...

2010-05-06T21:28:00.000-07:00

of an oldie but a goodie. Still love this look of petals and a path, even after all these years. (For all you kiddies out there, picture from Martha Stewart Weddings, fall '99).

'Tis the season

2010-05-04T10:38:00.000-07:00

For sweet, tart, rosy pink, tender rhubarb! There is nothing quite like rhubarb in the spring. This is one of my favorite ways to prepare it--a strawberry rhubarb crisp with a very surprising twist. Don't leave it out, even though it sounds like the BASIL is a mistake in the recipe. It does something amazing that can't easily be explained; sort of like pepper in chocolate.

One of my favorite spring (easy!) dinner menus is Uncle Harry's Flank Steak, served with risotto and asparagus, with this crisp as the perfect ending.

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 or 3 tsp. cornstarch
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
2 cups sliced fresh rhubarb (or frozen unsweetened sliced rhubarb, thawed)
2 cups coarsely chopped strawberries
2 Tbsp. snipped fresh basil leaves (not dried!)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup oats (oatmeal)
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
3 Tbsp. melted butter

Preheat oven to 375 F. In a medium bowl combine the 2/3 cup granulated sugar, the cornstarch, and cinnamon. (For fresh rhubarb, use 2 tsp. cornstarch; for frozen, use 3 tsp.) Stir in rhubarb, strawberries, and basil. Spoon into bottom of a 2 quart casserole/baking dish; set aside.
In another medium bowl, comine flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Stir in melted butter. Sprinkle over fruit.

Bake 30-35 minutes, or until fruit is tender and topping is golden brown. Serve warm with good vanilla ice cream. Serves 6.

(My copy of the recipe lists nutrition info, which shows that this is remarkably pretty good for you! Per serving: 276 calories, 7 g fat, and 51% of your daily vitamin C!).

House updates

2010-05-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

Running around today taking pictures with my very trashed camera. (See how bad these look Steven? Blurry, bad lighting, scratched up lens. See? We really do need a new one!)

Janelle Monae

2010-04-29T17:40:00.000-07:00

You know I love me a good asylum. Add some seriously funky dancing and you had me at hello.

Just popping in

2010-04-23T17:02:00.000-07:00

Felt the need to explain that I haven't been sucked into a black hole. Well, not literally, but I guess the black hole of springtime in the garden and the start of wedding season looming and the return of motivation to finish house projects did kinda get me. Can't really predict when it will shoot me back out either...

Pretty stuff that would look really great in my living room was first seen on Belle Maison. Sources can still be seen there.

I got a wild hair...

2010-04-14T16:28:00.000-07:00

Decided to start working on my wardrobe for GaGapalooza. So I took this piece of inspiration:

and came up with this for my trial run. Holla.

I'm quite pleased with the effect, but am thinking of adding an eye zipper or red lace face veil for the real deal. But not bad for just playing around a little this afternoon, no?

Sweet Teddy

2010-04-13T11:12:00.000-07:00

Anyone that has spent any time with my little family knows that there are really five of us. Steve, Lex, Hayes, Noah, and Teddy. Reading an excerpt from Home by Anita Kaushal on ABT this morning has me thinking about this little threadbare, loose-jointed, and lets face it, pretty nappy guy this morning. He's been with us since the beginning, and has never been gone more than three days. (This was during his famous trip to the "castle up north". When Hayes was two, Teddy was MIA for three days and Hayes was devastated. The only explanation Hayes had was that Teddy was visiting the castle up north. It took us three days to find him and realize the castle up north was really the space between the closet rod and upper shelf in Steve's closet.)

Teddy has cuddled with Hayes every night; told him stories and harbored his secrets; been to the circus, Key West, show and tell more times than I can count, and the doctor; has been rescued from a dog's mouth, some older kids at a park, and frequent attacks from really big dinosaurs. He's smart, silly, likes to eat cereal and fruit snacks, loves to be tossed up in the air, and has a magic wand and deep voice. He also gets to have a birthday party, complete with mac n' cheese, cupcakes, and the song, whenever Hayes has a really bad day. It always works.

Teddy has always been included in the family pictures, so the outward effect of all the love he receives has been as well documented as Hayes's growth into a creative, tall, sweet-natured little boy. And while others often comment on their often equally rumpled appearances, I think they both just keep getting more handsome everyday.

"You’ll never know which thing will become the best-loved, can’t-do-without, the night-time necessity. It might be a hand-stitched hand-me-down, a bright new soft toy, or a well-used blanket. Whatever they choose, it will mean security to your children and bring a sense of personal belonging and wellbeing. And you’ll end up treasuring it almost as much as they do."
--Anita Kaushal, Home

*While Noah is pictured above with Zosa, it was a short lived friendship. Noah is much more attached to a blue blanket that he named Momma, followed later by Blankie Momma. And while it absolutely melted my heart to have his most beloved thing to snuzzle with named after me, Momma just hasn't quite developed the personality and charm that Teddy has.

Wandering further off track...

2010-04-12T09:24:00.000-07:00

The trilliums are blooming (!!!) and I've fallen in love. I keep thinking about available-for-adoption Jazz night and day, but the timing and a huz with a focus on reality means it just isn't meant to be. So...I present all of my Seattle area readers with the opportunity to steal my soul mate away.

More info also available from:

Vashon Island Pet Protectors

Vashon Island, WA
206 389-1085
info@vipp.org

Seeking Job

2010-04-08T07:24:00.000-07:00

Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce? Are you hiring? Because I promise to wear gorgeous, ladylike Louis Vuitton from the Fall 2010 Collection (by the cutie patootie Marc Jacobs below) every single day. Maybe we're on the precipice of a new wave of oppression, but the girl in me that loves to twirl in full skirts* doesn't give a damn. Can I bring you a scotch Mr. Draper?

*Ok, you caught me. I just want to be able to pimp out my waistline that recently, through some delightful miracle appears to be quite small. I'm guessing its actually an optical illusion created by the rapidly expanding evil empire down below. But I'll take the silver lining, and cover up the rest with some Louis-style, as soon as Banana/J.Crew/Target start cookin' up the knock-offs.

Hey, I'm headed to the stormy beach for the rest of the week. Catch you on the flip side.

Hoarding Intervention

2010-04-05T17:05:00.000-07:00

Brilliant! A collage of all of those impossible-to-toss school projects, finger paint landscapes, and scribbled love notes. Hayes and your artwork drawer...here I come!!!

From oh dee doh.

Real Weddings: Sabrina + Wes

2010-04-02T09:15:00.000-07:00

Pictures from a beautiful late summer day at DeLille Cellars last September, courtesy of the groom's friend, AK Vogel (based out of Tennessee). Wes and Sabrina are here in Seattle finishing medical residencies before they head to Boston next year where he will be doing a pediatric cardiology fellowship. The wedding for these two smarties was a destination wedding of sorts, so they chose DeLille because of the beautiful grounds and Washington wine country feel. Wes is originally from the southern US, and Sabrina from Paris, France, so all of the guests would be visiting Washington, many for the first time. (I felt like a bit of an outsider; my sister had flown in from Birmingham to visit/help, so other than my dear friend Kate Leiser from Unveiled Events, I think I was the only one on the premises without a charming French or southern accent).

So with no further ado, enjoy their beautiful pictures, complete with fragrant gardenias to pin in the hair, a precious flower girl, an outdoor cathedral space, a sassy cake topper, and a groom with some serious moves.

365 Collections

2010-03-30T16:15:00.000-07:00

I can't remember the first collection I had, because I've loved collecting since before I can remember. Sometimes I love items because they have a story (like my vintage blue enamel French street signs), sometimes because each item is beautiful (sea urchins), sometimes it's just to have a lot of things of a particular color (mercury glass candlesticks, eggs). I like to have multiples of anything I really like--maybe I'm just a hoarder, maybe I'm greedy! But I do love how everyday items can become elevated to the status of artwork when massed in a group (stacked beach rocks, light bulbs in a bell jar, cookbooks arranged by color on a kitchen shelf). And I love a group of true artwork, though it doesn't have to be fancy (my favorite paintings are four watercolors I bought from a tiny old lady on a bridge over-looking Notre Dame in Paris).

But artist Lisa Congdon...she's done me one better. She is spending the year collecting collections! Every day she is documenting a collection on her blog A Collection a Day, 2010. It's lovely. It's full of the everyday-objects type of collections, and may make you think about some of your own things a little differently. She occasionally sketches or paints a collection, and her artwork is simply fantastic. I'm adding it to the collection of blogs in my reader.

All images by Lisa Congdon, from A Collection a Day, 2010.

Fresh Farm | Farm Fresh

2010-03-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Herban Feast (yummy, amazing, fresh, seasonal, artistic) just opened a gorgeous new 21-acre farm venue...The Farm at Willie Green's. It comes complete with beautiful vistas; really amazing food by head chef Dalis Chea; ponds, streams, native trees, working farm fields; a custom Raj tent; and a BOX OF SEASONAL PRODUCE FOR EVERY GUEST!

More info here and here. And note that HF is running an introductory special of 15% off bookings before April 15th.

Nothing says love like an old rubber boot!

2010-03-24T07:57:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling like a woman of very few words today, after spending way too long staring at the screen both last night and this morning. So, the low down is that I love this wedding that was held in an antique/salvage store in Chicago, Olivia Leigh very generously shared photos, and the centerpieces are darling--found objects from around the shop. Enjoy! I'm off to work on purchasing GaGa tickets.

I spy...

2010-03-22T15:27:00.000-07:00

beautiful bedding (named the Fiore Collection!). What is it about spring that makes me want to remodel the bed? Available from Garnet Hill, and it's even a reasonable price.

(This may just be a response to a weekend at Great Wolf Lodge, sleeping in the exact opposite of this. Of all the sacrifices we make for our children, GWL may be the ultimate. Its heavenly to be home.)

Time to pony up and BUY!

2010-03-17T16:12:00.000-07:00

I just got an email from J.Crew that all dresses are on sale for three days. 20% off. Stop waivering and just commit to a bridesmaid dress already. The girls will love you if it's from J.Crew.