So This is Bliss :: A Northwest Wedding Blog by Luxe Event Productions: June 2009

{Luxe Find} Vintage Inspired

Found these cute vintage wedding themed postcard fridge magnets on Ebay of all places, long ago when I was looking for event decor. The best part is that the seller is a local Oregonian. Check out her other products for sale, you'll love the retro style flower hair clips, perfect for weddings. She sells a "real touch" gardenia that looks so much like the real thing. I love Ebay for event decor. You could even print these in color and frame to place sround yoru reception or rehearsal dinner if you were having a vintage inspired theme. What a great Luxe Find.
I think these would be adorable and light hearted as Save the Dates. Or even engagement announcements.

Just click on the image you like and you can buy these cute cards right from Ebay!

If you've used a post card for your Save the Date, send them our way I'd love to showcase your idea. Just send us your image via email and be sure to give credit to your designer and printer, especially if their are local!

I know it's a short post today...we have been working hard on completing the blog and copy writing for our new website. So for the next few weeks I will still post every day but the posting will more then likely be a little short. Just wait until you see what we have been working on though! You will LOVE! Have a great day.

Inspired by Ink

I am not sure what provoked the thought maybe it was the Black Rock Coffee Bar van I drove by on my way into the office but I got to thinking...about ink, tattoo ink that is. When I found the cake topper below I was stunned, adorable, urban and unique. I have a love for the rare and vintage. You'll soon realize that I love anything glam, classic and vintage -which is why you'll surly see classic retro inspired elements in my inspiration boards and postings. My secret..shhhh...alter ego is so totally a rockabilly pin-up covered in tattoos of course.

Cute cake topper from Esty.

Which is is why I am crazy over brides with tattoos. Fully exposed, and proud. I have many tattoos of my own and these snaps I found ROCK! I am inspired by intensity and have always been drawn to rich colors and textiles personalities and large crowds; I'm glad to see society being more accepting of personal expression and the fact that a brides these days are not the cookie cutter bride in a pretty pretty princess gown all the time is refreshing.

So for your daily inspiration I say "be you" you're the most glamorous and sexy when you are. I found a blog that featured tattoo'd brides and I was thrilled, how cool. It doesn't look like there has been a posting for a while but nonetheless neat to skim trough. Now I knew about Offbeat Bride -which by the way is a favorite of mine have you seen it yet? If not -please do. I swear nothing and I mean nothing these days is an original idea...unless I guess you have a custom tattoo.

This shot is beautiful, the hair, her lips, -the gloves are the perfect touch of glam. Found her on http://www.bride.ca/

This couple found on Tattoo & Piercing blogspot. Had to share this one it is so candid. This black and white series was captured by Tracy Taylor Photography

{Luxe Style} Inspiration Board #7 & 8 : French Press Series, Noir

I really get excited about this series, it's drama is quite engaging, don't you think? I love the Ooo la la that comes to mind when you think "french noir", sensual, sultry and a tiny bit naughty -yet glamorous and extremely passionate. These deep hues evoke a "come hither" stare...With that I give you...

{French Press} Noir

Cake found on The Knot.

Colours: Pin-Up Red, Royal Purple, Noir, Gold

Energy: Sultry Dramatic Glamour

Left: Red door by Jake Howlett, Sparkler heart via Laura Novak

Middle: Photo found on Pin Up Girl Clothing
Right: "You Rock" heart candy found on Flickr, colorful fascinator photo found on Truly Engaging

Left: Birdcage veils via Castle Brides Right: French cabaret, Mulin Rouge, Bottle of Dom Perignon

{Luxe Style} Inspiration Board #1-4: Cotton Candy Series

Well... the weekend has consumed me. We are thoroughly enjoying the weather and I thought today was the prefect type of day to share these with you... I created this Cotton Candy series as a tribute to summer, and all the carnival-fun summer brings to each event.

{Luxe Style} Cotton Candy

Colors: Crisp white, fuchsia, lemon, swimming pool, robin egg, pink grapefruit, midnight black
Energy: Fun, cheerful, day, warm sun, laughter
Top: Cotton candy found via Martha Stewart Weddings, Flirty dress from Bari Jay and Shimmer
Bottom: Heels found on Flickr
This Luxe Style theme is full of whimsy and can be tailored for any affair. Not just weddings you'll find it easy to in indulged in these icy blues and pretty pinks. Colors this complimentary make this Luxe Theme so so SO sweet.

Top: Nine West blue sling backs, peonies found on The Knot
Middle: Alex Bussa Photography
Bottom: Pink guest favor from The Knot, Icy blue cocktail, The Knot
Add a little splash of sunshine and you've got yourself a smiley group of guests, these colors are splendid for those warm days of the spring and summer months we love so much.
Perfect for Spring, Summer and Winter Events of all kinds. Birthday's, Baby Showers, Weddings, Company Picnics, Bridal Showers, Anniversary... I really like incorporating home elements into inspiration boards, as I believe your home is where you will find the most natural of elements to compliment your event. The vintage oven in this one is such a great shot and the cool pool blue chipped paint makes it a masterpiece. Often times you can take items from around your home to use when decorating your venue. It brings a personal touch to the event that is uniquely yours. Pictures of the two of you when you first met are always a hit, people are inspired by love and will find joy in seeing your candid moments. Even a framed photo of your pooch is a fun and whimsical way to show your guests the sweeter and more personal side of your relationship.

In this board:
Top: Vintage Bega Oven, Flickr (love this snap -I wish I had an oven like this of my own. The colors are so beautiful.)
Bottom: Painted door, Flickr
This inspiration series suggests that you provide "sweet sensations" for guests so they too can take-in the whimsy of colors. Start by offering an assorted candy bar. [Click HERE to see how to create your own candy bar for your wedding]Using assorted candies that are all in the same color further promote the overall vibe.
When I help brides and grooms pick a color pallet I suggest they choose 2-3 colors as their base pallet and then choose 1-2 complimentary colors. Then I share that they should try to group their base colors together to get the best effect. It's much like gardening...when you want appeal your supposed to group "like with like" to enhance overall look and mood.
In this Luxe Style it suggests using tropical orchids, they bring that summer warmth to the mix. As many know the orchid comes in so many hot colors that I felt the white and fuchsia really cooled the style in a way that still encouraged a summer feeling. And what goes better with cotton candy and sugared treats? Cupcakes of course. Wedding cake need not apply. This style is too free and dreamy.
Top: Blue candy bar found via The Knot, Cupcake from Retro Bakery in sunny Las Veags Bottom: Flowers and cocktail via The Knot

{Photo Friday} Flickr Love

Ok so I am in love with Flickr, have been for a long time. I could spend all day searching photos and adding them to our favorites. One of our favorite preferred vendors Unncommon Muse Photography turned me on the Flickr and I have been sold ever since. So today this is our {Photo Friday} post and of course {#PhotoFriday} hash tag on Twitter.

The layering in this snap is so fun and I was stunned when I stumbled across it. Unique, interesting and totally fresh. This would make a great engagement announcement. Don't you think? It's shows the coming together of a love between two people. Just cool.

{Luxe Style} French Press Inspiration Board: Sneak Peak

Here's an little sneak peek at the "French Press" Inspiration board series I'm working on. It was love at first sight with this shot I found via Castle Brides. I wil post later this afternoon more of this cheeky {French Press} Luxe Style Board, inspiration board series.

Veil Style Brisbane: Black tulle vintage veiled hat accented with a purple and black feather flowerm that features peacock stamens and purple French netting. Can we say sultry and Yum?

{Wedding Wednesday} Thinking Outside the Frame

Ahhh, I love wedding Wednesday, what's not to love about weddings? This morning I received and invite to attend a Priscilla of Boston trunk show. Unfortunately there are no shows here in the NW and what a bummer as their gowns are to die for. I especially love this one.

Style # 4200. Just click on the image and see the runway video.

I really like the ruffles, so European yet classic American too. Ooo and these too! I am obsessed with the new trend of short dresses, I even slipped into a Maggie Soterro after my own ceremony. Take a peek at this hot style though, umm yum, this is a wedding dress you really CAN wear after the wedding. I like this one so much I think I may inquire about buying it as I could wear it for my anniversary. Now there's a thought.

Style # 4118. Click on the image to see the runway video.
So moving on, it's so easy to get side tracked when surrounded by beautiful things. I did a little search for some NW trunk shows and found that our shows here are not until fall (I knew that but thought maybe there was at least one this summer) which I guess isn't bad since the summer months can get so busy. Just visit: http://www.rosecitybridalshowcase.com/ for more info. As we get closer to these events I will surly report on them for you.

As for your daily inspiration I was looking through a really old Martha Stewart Weddings article and came upon something my husband and I are doing in our family room regarding our wedding photos. I actually thought it was an original idea and however nothing is an "original idea" these days -just modified versions of old ones.

The fun idea was to "think outside the frame"

From their article: When displaying wedding photographs, think outside the frame. Many companies will print images on stretched canvases rather than photo paper. Mix posed and candid shots in various sizes and arrange on the wall for a modern look.

I'll have to post what ours look like as soon as we finish them. To produce this idea on your own you can use many local printers to do this, Walgreen's, Ritz, Kinko's etc. Or you can complete online through some of these other sources:
http://www.zazzle.com/custom/posters
www.onlineposterprinting.com
www.shutterfly.com

Really there are many sources, you pick the one that is fun for you to use and voila, instant memories displayed in a contemporary and modern way.

{Inspired By Love} Red Leaf Studios

I started #Inspired By Love as a "hash tag" in Twitter to use as my Monday post -a Luxe Find if you will, and since then I find that the photos that inspire me and make me swoon also make others feel the same way.

Today I found a great new photography blog for you to scope out, Red Leaf Studios. Husband and wife duo and just look at their depth of field shots, unique and imaginative...Look at the sincerity in his hold, the light...the love.

When it's true love it is evident in the shot. The photographer just has to point and shoot. I bet these two were easy to capture. Enjoy surfing the blog , I did.

I love the color in this wedding and have decided to use these colors as my next my inspiration to create a new Luxe Style inspiration board.

How creative with the brides bouquet, the contrast is breath taking.

The vintage mood of this wedding is calming and fresh and I'm not quite sure if it's actually the wedding and not just the photographers... You must check out the blog and see more pictures. Just click on this picture to see more of their special day. Awe, what a find.

I heart Flickr.

{Luxe Style} Inspiration Board #6 : French Press #1

For some reason I just couldn't sleep this morning so I got up and made myself some french press and had a thought...I have been collecting images and thoughts to create a series of Parisian Themed inspiration boards and this morning you have #1 of the series.
I just love most all things french. Being a Le Cordon Bleu graduate I suppose that is where my love began since I have never actually been to France. When I think of Paris or France in general I immediately generate thoughts of fine script, vintage whites, and of course the Eiffel Tower, fashion and the catch phrase "Ooo la la". For some reason I think I add a 'vintage thought' to everything. I think it is the "classic" feeling I love..."timeless" I guess.
For your viewing pleasure appréciez! [Enjoy!]

{Luxe Style} French Press

Colours: Birch, vintage white, brushed nickle, creamy latte, newspaper, mint
Energy: Light and fresh, morning

Top: Bridal birdcage view via Bride Magazine.
Middle: Perfect Parisian Eiffel Tower place setting found on Bumble B Designs; Organically quaint invites from See Saw Designs; Milk white peonies and ranauculus bouquet from Bride Magazine
Bottom: An Occasion for Celebrating found from a real wedding via Joanna Goddard's Blog; fun frenchie bikes, makes me want one of my own...image found via Streets Blog.

ABOUT THE BLOG

Thanks for stopping by the official blog of Luxe Event Productions. This is a blog where we showcase real weddings, engagement sessions, celebration event ideas, local event related vendors and amazing artistry by some of the best local wedding photographers.

We started this blog to be somewhat of "local" source for event design inspiration for soon-to-be brides in the northwest. Brides these days want out-of-the-box ideas and new twists on tradition. So, we wanted to show local brides what it was like to marry here! It's fun to see real weddings that commenced in other places but what about right here in our own backyard? So this is Bliss focuses mostly on just that, our own backyard...posts of real weddings and engagement sessions that took place here in the northwest, in local venues and produced by local vendors. Of course weddings and ideas from other parts of the country but for the most part we feature and showcase local loves and inspirations.

Our blog is a place for community, a place for sharing and inspiring others...a place for rejoicing. We will often post stuff from other event planners, blogs and designers, as well as bits from from our own Luxe Weddings and Events. It's a collaborative space!

We welcome you to sit, stay and explore awhile...

A BIT ABOUT THE WRITER

Ok so I am one of those "crazy" people who always knew what I wanted to be when I grew up, I've had a passion for hospitality my whole life.

With more than fifteen years of experience and a degree in the hospitality industry producing events is second nature for me and it never feels like a job. Plain and simple, I am completely smitten by life's celebrations and I love a good party.

You see, in my career I have produced some very large scale events with thousands of people in attendance and even did motivational speaking for high schools for a few years. Because of my experiences I couldn't help throughout the years of event planning to be so drawn to the intimate events like weddings, baby showers, birthdays, cocktail soirees and dinner parties. Especially weddings...they are so magical and I get completely wrapped up in their joy. I'm a happy person and I think it shows in my event management.

I think one of the most heartwarming sounds in the world is when you hear the "happy birthday" song in the distance. Whenever I hear it in background of a restaurant I can't help but smile. Celebrating and inspiring others is important to me, so much a passion in my life that even after years in the same industry I still can say " I absolutely adore my career and I've found my calling".

Photo by: Gina Emerson

I must confess I am the ultimate dreamer. I'm a hugger and totally obsessed with love. Because of all this I am a loving and light-hearted person who enjoys making new friends and collaborating with others.

So, email me anytime, I'm always open to meeting new people! We'll get some coffee or a glass of bubbly and just talk.

{Luxe Idea} Supper Soiree

{Luxe idea}: Italian Supper Soiree? Dip your bread in this!

This "Gold of the Gods" Italian Olive oil from one of our favorite places -Sorrento, Italy has actual 23k gold flakes in it! Pour this in a

dipping dish and have your guests saying "Wow, where did you find this?"

You can just tell them it was a "Luxe Find" ;)

Buon Mangia!

{Luxe Idea} Garden Event

{Luxe idea}: Have an old garden urn that you're not using? Or maybe you found one on sale you just have to have...instead of using it for planting why not use it as an ice and beverage bucket for your next event.

Super use of product and oh so chic.

We just painted one of our own a rustic black color. We'll post pictures as soon as it drys... For now see this great Woman's Day article by clicking on the image.

Photo by: Amanda Lynn Photography

Want to submit your event? Think it turned out and would inspire other soon-to-be brides? No matter your style, send us your photos and let's show-off your special day. From Engagement to Honeymoon -we want your story...and all those sweet Kodak moments.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT:: Misty@SothisisBliss.com

Here’s what you need to include in your submission:
1.} Your names and ages, wedding date & location
2.} Where you currently live & your occupations
3.} Rehearsal dinner, ceremony and reception locations
4.} Who was your event coordinator
5.} Include a descriptive narrative of the {3} following items:

YOUR LOVE STORY

TELL US YOUR STORY; how did he propose? What was your vision of your big day? From the proposal to the first bridesmaid’s brunch to the shower, bachelorette and bachelor party…let us know about the outfits you wore for you rehearsal and the shoes you found on sale that made it all come together. Let us know as many details as possible include those special DIY projects you spent hours on creating and let us know how you found the product. (500-800 words)

PAINT US A PICTURE

PAINT US A PICTURE; Send us 25-40 photos that you believe show off the uniqueness and interestingness of your event the most. All photos should be sent via jpeg images. We must have a photography credit to consider your event for publication and do need to have a credit as to whom took them.

VENDOR LOVE

PUBLICLY THANK YOUR VENDORS; List all pertinent vendors that you would like to see credited. Also you must provide us with links to their websites, blogs etc. the more details the better.

WHAT'S YOUR STYLE?

DID IT ALL BY YOURSELF :: You did that YOURSELF? Yep, send us snaps of all those projects you spent tireless hours on creating just to make your Event even more unique to the two of you. Be sure to share with us step-by-step directions so others can be inspired.

TRADITIONAL AND CULTURAL :: Ahh…there is nothing like the comfort of culture and tradition. Were there cultural traditions that you infused into your day, or maybe it lasted longer then just one day and you had multiple ceremonies?

CHARMING AND ROMANTIC :: Simple yet deeply passionate and oh so magical; Chandeliers hovering over tables with soft satin linens, intimate ceremonial dinner with soft candle light and handmade favors inspired by the locale.

PROJECT SHOESTRING :: Stunning, chic, urban, fun, whimsical –whatever your Event style did you produce it on a shoestring budget? Tell us about it.

URBAN AND CONTEMPORARY :: Rooftops, lofts, car museums, industrial district restaurants, all super-urban and only the most modern and contemporary styling for you and your love…sleek and clean details –no fuss just fresh and screams of current trends.

WHIMSICAL AND FAIRYTALE :: Did you ride up in a white horse drawn carriage and wear the biggest princess gown you could find? Maybe your tiara was a family heirloom and your Mr. Right wore tales…if so hurry and share with us before the clock strikes midnight!

TRES CHIC :: Stylish and sultry, every detail was obsessed over; maybe you wore not one but two dresses and your gown may even have had a black sash? We love weddings that feature black show us just how stylish your Event was.