Archive for March, 2011

2

The Wedding Dream Team ~ Lawson Photography

By
michelle@pocketfulofdreams.co.uk
– March 31, 2011Posted in: Dream Team, Photography
These are the days I love doing what I do. The days when I get to share with you not only incredibly creative and talented people but thoroughly lovely ones...

These are the days I love doing what I do. The days when I get to share with you not only incredibly creative and talented people but thoroughly lovely ones to boot.

My Wedding Dream Team consists of the very best-of-the-best. Each ‘team’ member has been hand-picked following hours upon hours of research, as well as trusted recommendations, to bring you only the most talented and sought-after suppliers who really do have that creative edge, that passion, that ‘certain something’.

And none come more talented than Lawson Photography. The Lawson’s are Pete and Laura, a husband and wife team who “love weddings, smiley people and each other”. Aw they really are that cute and if you don’t believe me just hop on over to their blog to watch their about us video.

I have been aware of Lawson Photography for a few years now having drooled over their work which is hanging in a very elegant and beautiful hotel near where I live, I also know a handful of brides who have been lucky enough to have them capture their wedding days in all their glory. And they come with truly glowing references.

Their style is to “capture the atmosphere and love between the couple and their friends and family”, you wont find them shouting at your guests or having them line up for awkward group poses. Emotion can be a hard thing to capture on camera, but these guys get it right every time, not only capturing true emotions but also the atmosphere of every wedding – so beautifully – you really feel like you’re there with them. I have to admit I do visit their blog for a peek at their lovely pictures on a regular basis, their images quite regularly knock-my-socks-off they are so good.

One recent shot that did just that was this utterly brilliant kaleidoscopic magic moment from a wedding at Manchester Art Gallery, STUNNING, it still gives me shivers now.

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

I recently caught up with Laura to find out a little more about the two lovely people behind Lawson Photography and here’s what she told me…..

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

Why did you become a wedding photographer?

It was a happy accident.  We did completely different things at university; I did dance and Pete did politics, and when we met each other in our third year neither of us really had a set career plan for the future.  We liked taking pictures, so we did that a lot, and then my big sister got married and asked us to do the pictures.  It was really the first wedding we’d been to as grown ups, and we loved it.  It’s still amazing to us that this can be our actual job.

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

Who has been instrumental in helping you to become successful?

Each other! The fact that we are both equally obsessed with our work means it has become a huge part of our lives.  We have really similar taste and agree on most things so we find working together really easy, and we are both perfectionists so we are constantly pushing ourselves (and each other) to do better and better.

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

Who inspires you?

People are endlessly fascinating and definitely our biggest inspiration.  Being able to share a wedding day with someone and capture their emotion, and the moments shared with people around them is a real honour.  It’s all about the moments.

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

Do you have a particular photography style?

Our style is fun, relaxed and atmospheric.  We want our pictures to really capture what a wedding was like, but possibly make it look even prettier.  In the larger sense we hope when their grandchildren look at their album one day they can see how much they were in love.

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

What is the most challenging thing about photographing weddings?

Shooting a wedding is the fun bit.  No matter how long the day is, how mean the vicar was or how much your feet hurt it’s fun and it’s what we are passionate about.  The other (more boring) business related things like tax returns and filing are the most challenging part – we are messy creative types and it sometimes gets out of hand!

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

and the best part of it?

Sharing such a big day with someone.  It’s amazing to get to know all these lovely people and be surrounded by happiness.  Oh and cake!

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

What advice would you give to couples when choosing a wedding photographer and what questions should they be asking?

Wedding blogs are a great way to do your research and see what style of photography you really like.  Look at lots of photographer’s websites, and have a good rummage around to see if you love everything they do.  You need to see lots of examples of recent work (so check out their blog, not just their portfolio), and try to meet them in person if possible, they will be with you all day so you have to feel comfortable with them.  There are no standard questions you should be asking, so ask them anything and everything you think of.

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

How do you ensure the images you capture are what the couple wants from their day?

We blog everything we shoot, and we put as much information on our website as possible; this means that by the time we are meeting a couple, most know exactly what our style is (and what our cat is called!).  Not only is it important for couples to get the right photographer, it’s important to us that we get the right couples – if someone says they want 30 formal group shots and no pictures before the ceremony we know we probably aren’t for them and will recommend an alternative.  We are extremely lucky that most of our couples find us through word of mouth, they know what we’ll do and we know that they ‘get us’.

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

What are your thoughts on the wedding industry and how has it changed / how will it change in the future?

When we got married in 2007 it was all about the wedding magazine.  Pete would moan about the ever growing pile and I would be counting down the days until the next Brides was published.  Now it seems to be wedding blogs leading the way; brides have access to lots of real weddings from around the world on a daily basis, it’s an endless source of inspiration.  I think we’ll see more and more unique, creative, quirky weddings in the future; you can do anything you fancy.

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

Whose wedding (past, present or future) would be your dream wedding to photograph?

Natalie Portman.  Sure she’s beautiful and elegant but she also doesn’t take herself too seriously; the rap she did for Saturday Night Live was amazing!

When you are not photographing weddings what are you doing?

Pottering around doing DIY in our little cottage, cooking yummy food, chilling with our cat Puddington, watching films, reading lots and taking pictures of random things.

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

What is your ultimate dream in life?

To be old and happy, like the couple in the film ‘Up’. (I really must watch this film as I hear so much about it!)

Wedding photography, reportage photography, Lawson Photography, Wedding Photographers

Thank-you so much to Laura for sharing this insight into Lawson Photography, it is very clear to see from these images of their work just how relaxed and comfortable the couples are around Pete and Laura, ‘like they’re not even there’.

I for one am so pleased that Laura did not become the next Darcey Bussell and Peter is not our Prime Minister, as the world of wedding photography would truly, truly have missed them.

If you are looking for a wedding photographer please do get in touch with the Lawson’s but be quick, these guys get booked up fast (they are already booked up for 2011).

All the details

Contact: Lawson Photography
T: 07855 312 857
E: peter@lawsonphotography.co.uk or laura@lawsonphotography.co.uk
Web and Blog: lawsonphotography.co.uk

Prices:

  • They have one wedding package which gives you both photographers for the entire day, from morning preparations until around 10pm
  • The rate is currently £2,500 and includes DVD with reproduction rights and 50-page album
  • They aim to shoot no more than 40 wedding per year so they can dedicate themselves to each couple from the initial preparations, to the day itself and the post-processing of images and album
  • Based in the North West, they travel all around the UK (and have even ventured to Marrakech for a shoot). Travel within 100 miles is included, otherwise £250 travel expenses is applicable.
  • Visit their site for further details on their wedding package


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3

The Wedding Planning Web ~ Where to start?

By
michelle@pocketfulofdreams.co.uk
– March 30, 2011Posted in: Planning & Resources

Welcome to my new blog series where I am hoping to impart some of my well-worn event planning expertise to help ease your wedding planning worries.

Now I am no stranger to all of this ‘planning stuff’, I have planned and executed so, so many events in my time, but none are quite as frought or likely to fill someone with that feeling of overwhelm quite like your own wedding day can. I know this because I have been surrounded by so many brides-to-be who look practically panic stricken when the realisation hits them that they are trying to do everything themselves and have a million and one decisions to make about things they (usually) know absolutely nothing about.

So first things first – PANIC. That’s right I said PANIC!

Go on, let it all out, stamp your feet, throw yourself on the floor, worry about it all and cry at the sheer enormity of what you are about to do.

Then – GET OVER IT!

That is the one and only time you are allowed to lose your head, get it out of the way now because once the ball starts rolling there is absolutely no time to panic, no time for tantrums, and no need for breaking out in hives.  Not if you listen to the mountain of professional advice out there from all those lovely people who are chomping at the bit to give it to you, not if you realise that things can and probably will go wrong, not if you trust in the incredibly talented people ready to help you with your day and not if you take things step-by-step and have a good plan from the very beginning.

wedding planning advice, why use a wedding planner?

Illustrations throughout courtesy of: Srpehrson via Dreamstime

Fail to Plan – Plan to Fail

How does that old saying go…

“A good plan today is better than a perfect plan tomorrow”

And that is exactly right, yes you should aim for the day of your dreams but don’t restrict yourself so much with such a tightly blinkered vision that you miss golden opportunities as they come up. Because they will, you will meet so many people along the way who will recommend so and so, the best seamstress in town, or the florist down the road you never knew about who can create magic with a few roses!

You just have to remain calm, open to options and suggestions, still expect the best but also prepare for the worst (don’t ever ignore this advice) and at all times remember exactly what this day is all about, then prepare to be surprised. This is your day, it’s supposed to be monumental fun not stress, even all this planning malarkey can be gratifying I promise.

So first things first, the all important venue right?.

Well actually no it’s not the first thing you need to do, no matter what those glossy venue brochures tell you. You really can’t begin thinking about a venue until you have worked out a few rather more important things first.

Before you do anything you need to sit down with your chappie and have that all important discussion. Grab a bottle of wine for company and figure it all out together, your mission for this chat is to agree on:

  • What style of day appeals to you both? (your vision)
  • What do you want to spend and how much do you have? (your budget)
  • Who do you want to invite? (your guestlist)

It’s no good having your heart set on that fancy and opulent castle wedding if your budget is £5K and you only know 20 people. Or worse still your guestlist is running to 250 and you were hoping for an intimate backyard shindig.

Wedding planning advice, why use a wedding planner?

The wedding vision: Your day – your way

This is the crux of your planning, it’s the holy grail, and what is going to keep you sane throughout it all. Think of it as your mission or vision, if you could sum up in one sentence what you want your day to be about what would it say?

Really think about what the day means to you, not how you want to decorate the venue or the style of dress you want to wear, but the very heart of what it means to you both.

Once you have your vision nailed, next list your top priorities. This could be one, it could be three or it could be five things. It’s about knowing what you and your partner want from the day, then aiming to get the best out of those aspects and using your budget well to reach those priorities.

With your vision firmly defined and your priorities agreed, all your other decisions should be easy, you just have to think back to what you have discussed and agreed here. Everything else is just decoration. The challenge now is to not to let the fantasy and romance of all the wedding ‘pretty’ sway you from your top priorities.

Wedding planning advice, why use a wedding planner?

Your Budget – What you can afford and what you want to spend

Now the subject of budgeting is a sticky one for most people and there are probably no right or wrong answers to the age old dilemna of budgeting. But be warned, heading into something as big as this without a clear idea on your budget is a recipe for disaster.

But if you’ve never planned a wedding (or any kind of event for that matter) where on earth do you start? I know how daunting it must be for couples in this situation, with so many things to think of and no real understanding of what things are likely to cost so putting in the time now to research how far your money will go will save a lot of heartache in the long run.

Write down what funds you have now, what funds are being contributed to your day (by parents for example) and how much you can realistically save without giving up your whole life between now and the wedding. Budgeting is not fun, but it is entirely necessary. I can’t stress this enough.

The subject of budgeting is no easy one to tackle and one I would like to come back to at a later date with more practical advice. But for now please, please, please if you do nothing else when you start your wedding planning, make sure you sort out your budget first.

Wedding planning advice, why use a wedding planner?

Who’s on the list?

Ah the subject that causes many a family to fall apart under the strain, and it really can be a bone of contention. But it doesn’t have to be.

If you have been firm and clear on the vision of your day then a lot of the decisions around your guestlist should already have been made. Let me give you an example, you want your day to be about sharing with those closest to you, the people you would call up in the middle of the night for a natter, the people who know you inside out. Not your great auntie Edna from Scotland whom you have met twice but have to invite for fear of upsetting someone. If you are clear on your vision, there should be no question as to whether Edna is on the list or not.

The other sticky wicket is whether or not to invite children. Everyone has an opinion here and it doesn’t make anyone right or wrong. The only people who have a say in this are the people doing the paying – Yes thats you. If you don’t want kids there, say so. If you do then do it, but make sure there is something for them to do and it’s not just an adults world. It’s about being assertive and doing what you want but considering others along the way. A little like life really!

Wedding planning advice, why use a wedding planner?

A helping hand

A wedding is a massive expense for everyone. Whether you are spending £1K or £100K, whatever budget you have will be a massive amount of money for you to spend and more than you would usually be spending on anything else in your life (besides your home of course). This is something you have to realise now, don’t look on in awe of the bride spending £50K and try to emulate them, and neither should you look at the bride spending £2K and pity her. Everyone has different priorities in life so stick to yours and do what’s important for you.

A wedding can be a lot of money and it certainly takes a blooming lot of organising. When you buy a house you think nothing of paying an estate agent to do all the legwork for you, marketing the property for sale, meeting with potential buyers to show them around, negotiating, liaising with solicitors, ensuring all the paperwork is in the correct order and so on. I think you get the picture. And this usually costs a tidy sum in fees but most people don’t even bat an eyelid or question that they need the estate agent to help them sell their house.

Yet when it comes to weddings, and the amount of money being spent (often as much as that first house deposit), most people automatically assume going it alone is the best option. But there is just as much involved in planning a wedding as there is in selling a house, perhaps more. So, so many more hours involved (Some say it takes 250-300 hours, if you figure out that you have potentially a few stolen hours each evening after work and your precious weekends this could eat into about 100 days of your time – and quite frankly who has this much spare time?).

In the US a wedding planner or co-ordinator isn’t considered, it’s just done. It’s the norm and has been for a long time. These are huge amounts of money being spent whichever way you look at it, and you know you want to get the best out of the day so why not consider investing in the professionals?. There are various wedding planning services available to Brides up and down the UK from full-coordination wedding planners, to styling experts, to those who can just be on hand on-the-day itself taking away those logistical worries and leaving you free to sit back and relax into your day.

A professional planner really can make life that little bit easier for you, they have access to a whole host of tried and trusted professionals and can negotiate the best services for you. A good planner will understand the latest trends, have great connections and be experts in styling and decor. With the added bonus of them being able to manage those less than exciting admin tasks to ensure your plan remains on target, deadlines are met, deposits are paid on time and a beady eye is firmly fixed at all times on that all important budget.

Time is an incredibly precious commodity nowadays and who really wants to spend the weeks and months leading up to their wedding day with their heads buried in a spreadsheet? A planner should offer you essential support, expert creativity and a crucial attention to detail that will bring together your loose vision into the magnificent event you dreamed it would be.

Wedding planning advice, why use a wedding planner?

Final thoughts

It goes without saying every bride (and many grooms too) want their day to be super-stylish whatever their own style may be. A wedding is one of the most significant occasions in life and it needn’t be stressful.

Approach it calmly with a strong vision, a very clear idea on the right budget for you, a firm list of your top priorities to prevent being swayed by ‘pretty’ and plan well from the outset. And if you are feeling a little overwhelmed or time-poor then consider letting the professionals support you in turning your dreams to reality.

So what do you think brides-to-be, has this been helpful? and how are you approaching your wedding planning? I will be back with more soon in the Wedding Planning Web series, next I tackle the all important Venue options.

Michelle Pocketful of Dreams Blog, Inspiration for love, life and living and stylish events

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2

A cute little Christening all in pink

By
michelle@pocketfulofdreams.co.uk
– March 29, 2011Posted in: Weddings & Parties

I have the cutest and most adorable baby girl’s christening to share with you today. A little move away from weddings but when I set out with this blog my aim was to provide ‘inspiration for dream occasions’ and this one is just that. Girly pink cuteness personified that I couldn’t resist sharing.

Baby girl, Christening, Rita_RojasSullivan_Photography, Party decor, decor ideas, pink

I love the little nod to vintage elements in this girl’s bedroom, with the birdcages on top of the closet and how cute her outfit and little shoes looks. Who needs Louboutins hey when a pair of pink converse create this much picture prettiness?

Baby girl, Christening, Rita_RojasSullivan_Photography, Party decor, decor ideas, pink

Baby girl, Christening, Rita_RojasSullivan_Photography, Party decor, decor ideas, pink

Baby girl, Christening, Rita_RojasSullivan_Photography, Party decor, decor ideas, pink

Simply adorable!

Baby girl, Christening, Rita_RojasSullivan_Photography, Party decor, decor ideas, pink

Delicate pearls and lace elements to the name-cards keep the pink scheme looking sophisticated.

Baby girl, Christening, Rita_RojasSullivan_Photography, Party decor, decor ideas, pink

I just love these delicate pink flowers mixed in with the white feathers sat in cut glass vases, makes the whole room sparkle.

Baby girl, Christening, Rita_RojasSullivan_Photography, Party decor, decor ideas, pink

Baby girl, Christening, Rita_RojasSullivan_Photography, Party decor, decor ideas, pink

Baby girl, Christening, Rita_RojasSullivan_Photography, Party decor, decor ideas, pink

Baby girl, Christening, Rita_RojasSullivan_Photography, Party decor, decor ideas, pink

Baby girl, Christening, Rita_RojasSullivan_Photography, Party decor, decor ideas, pink

And just look at that cute headband, gorgeous. You just know this little girl is going to grow into one stylish young lady.

Special thanks to the photographer Rita Rojas-Sullivan Photography for sharing these images with my via Two Bright Lights.

Photographer: Rita Rojas-Sullivan Photography

Reception Venue: Il Villaggio

Cake Designer: Design Cakes

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0

The Wedding Dream Team ~ Sugalily Invitations and Stationery

By
michelle@pocketfulofdreams.co.uk
– March 28, 2011Posted in: Dream Team, Stationery
I know I’m going a little stationery crazy over here at Pocketful of Dreams towers but I just can’t help myself. In this day and age when everything is electronic...

I know I’m going a little stationery crazy over here at Pocketful of Dreams towers but I just can’t help myself. In this day and age when everything is electronic and email I guess it just feels all the more special when that little envelope drops on the mat and it’s something so personal and unique that I have to have a little dribble.

sugalily, vintage wedding stationery, vintage wedding invitations, wedding stationery, wedding invitations, abbey warner, vintage wedding

Image: Photography Copyright (c) 2011, Katy Lunsford, for Love My Dress

None come more unique than the strikingly eye-catching collection of vintage and retro inspired stationery over at Sugalily. Run by Abbey Warner, a Derby and London based designer and her team of “textile lovers, typography geeks and letterpress lovers”.

sugalily, vintage wedding stationery, vintage wedding invitations, wedding stationery, wedding invitations, abbey warner, vintage wedding

You will find Sugalily stocked in luxury department stores across the UK (Including Harrods who they design a bespoke line of luxury cards for) as well as being available to buy online (by requesting a sample pack – see below for more details on how to order).

sugalily, vintage wedding stationery, vintage wedding invitations, wedding stationery, wedding invitations, abbey warner, vintage wedding

Image: Photography Copyright (c) 2011, Katy Lunsford, for Love My Dress

Drawing on inspiration from fashion and vintage designs all of Sugalily’s beautiful products feature a signature vintage embellishment, from market sourced buttons to satin ribbon and vintage textiles.

sugalily, vintage wedding stationery, vintage wedding invitations, wedding stationery, wedding invitations, abbey warner, vintage wedding

Their wedding service Borrowed or Bleu has both “off-the-peg” designs and a “bespoke” service and includes save the date, day and evening invites, rsvp, order of service, seating plan, menu, name cards, table name cards, guest book and thank you cards. Each range can be adapted to suit individual colours and text can be changed.

sugalily, vintage wedding stationery, vintage wedding invitations, wedding stationery, wedding invitations, abbey warner, vintage wedding

In terms of trends for wedding stationery Abbey believes that “Vintage isnt going away anytime soon, my brides are certainly putting their own spin on it and not seeing the vintage trend as just a bit of bunting and some cupcakes but really immersing themselves in what it actually means to be a vintage bride. I am also increasingly being asked to work on projects that consider two key aspects ‘the make-do-and-mend culture’ of wartime britain and also how much I am considering my carbon footprint”.
sugalily, vintage wedding stationery, vintage wedding invitations, wedding stationery, wedding invitations, abbey warner, vintage wedding
It is true to say the wedding industry is changing and it is important for young independent designers such as Sugalily to ensure they have their finger firmly on the wedding fashion pulse. Abbey is no stranger to this and commented “In the last twelve months I think that all suppliers have had to really raise their game as brides expectations change, whether this is the influence of the US bridal market I am not sure, but brides are definitely getting more savvy and stylish”.
sugalily, vintage wedding stationery, vintage wedding invitations, wedding stationery, wedding invitations, abbey warner, vintage wedding
Image: Photography Copyright (c) 2011, Katy Lunsford, for Love My Dress
and Abbey’s dream client? “Kate Moss and Jamie Hince or Lily Allen” Hell yeah, I’m with you on that one Abbey.
All the details
Contact:

Sugalily
First Floor Studio, Forman Street Studios, 19 Forman Street, Derby. DE1 1JQ

T: +44 (0) 7801 566 345
E: hello@sugalily.co.uk
W: sugalily.co.uk
Blog: sugalily.co.uk/our-journal

Prices:

  • Save the date card (130mm x 130 mm standard) £2.50
  • Wedding day invitations £4.00 – £7.00 (without envelopes)
  • Range of envelopes, postal wraps and tapestry boxes available £0.50 – £2.00

How to order:

  • For off-the-peg designs, order an individual sample or a sample pack with a selection of designs delivered to you in a sugalily keepsake box
  • They discuss with you bespoke design options and provide a detailed quotation
  • Written confirmation and a 50% deposit is required to secure the order
  • Email PDF proof and one set of amends provided within the costs for approval
  • Invitations delivered within 8 weeks – but they can work to shorter deadlines
  • See How We Work for further details.

All images in this feature have been provided for kind use by Abbey of Sugalily.

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0

Sunday snippets of wedding wonderment

By
michelle@pocketfulofdreams.co.uk
– March 27, 2011Posted in: Weddings & Parties
Image credit: Jonas Peterson via Pocketful of Dreams Blog Good morning everyone, I hope you are having a lovely weekend. My thoughts this weekend are turning to the exciting plans...

Image credit: Jonas Peterson via Pocketful of Dreams Blog

Good morning everyone,

I hope you are having a lovely weekend. My thoughts this weekend are turning to the exciting plans I have coming up over the next few weeks and months.  It has always been my dream to pursue a more creative path and this blog is my little outlet of creative inspiration, where I can write about the things that inspire me and what I am learning about and also share it with someone other than the cat.

At the moment Pocketful of Dreams is really a labour of love, I don’t have sponsors paying me to feature on the blog, everyone you see on here is here because I adore them and find them exceptionally talented or feel their products deserve showcasing. I hope one day I will be able to work with fantastic creative minds like these and many, many more people to help them create great events with great style, be it a wedding, a christening, a birthday party or just a reason to celebrate life! I love styling and creating and planning, heck I even love budgeting.

And that is what I have been thinking about this week, the creative projects I am already involved in and the ones I want to ‘make happen’ I have set myself a few goals and will be sharing them with you over the coming weeks. Eek!

So on with the blogging, here is my round-up of all the delicious wedding and event styling loveliness that I have come across this week for you to adore too.

Real wedding web snippets by Pocketful of Dreams Blog

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Image credit: Jonas Peterson via Pocketful of Dreams Blog

I really hope you didn’t miss this, but I was lucky enough to feature a Jonas Peterson real wedding this week [along with a few other lucky bloggers too] hopefully I was the first to bring it to you, and anyway I really don’t care as the more people see this the better. For me it it the ULTIMATE wedding to be able to feature and just what weddings are all about, fun, laughter and friends. Gorgeous. You can see the full backyard wedding feature here.

bride-and-groom-bentley, real wedding, hyde park, emerald earings

Image Credit: Polly Alexandre via Once Wed

I fell in love with this wedding the second I saw it. Such a stunning bride in Elie Saab with the most delicious emerald green vintage diamond earrings I have ever seen, a present from her husband. Loving that white vintage bentley too, pure class. See it in full here Hyde Park Wedding.

wedding details, wedding ideas, wedding inspiration

wedding cake, wedding flowers, wedding inspiration, wedding ideas

Image credit: Melissa Schollaert Photography via Style Unveiled

I saw this laid-back museum wedding with so many cute and quirky details, but the bits I loved the most were their cake and all their casual flowers in mason jars. Very simple but visually stunning.

spring table top, yellow flowers, baby shower

Image Credit: The Collection Event Studio

I love this waffle brunch baby shower in bright citrus yellow, a perfect decor look for spring. Simple flowers in glass vases and the cutest blessing tree for friends to leave notes for the mum-to-be

vintage brooch bouquet, wedding bouquet, vintage brooch wedding bouquet,

Image Credit: Katie Day via Love and Lavender

Earlier this week I posted about vintage brooch bouquets in my Where to Buy ~ How to DIY series and then low and behold I stumble across this wedding with one of the best ones I have seen yet. It’s lovely how the bride incorporated the brooches along with real flowers. My idea of the perfect bouquet.

They also had a really laid-back feel to the day with these pretty rustic centrepieces. The whole wedding was so pretty, see here.

Rustic centrepieces, wedding centrepieces, wedding flowers

Image Credit: Katie Day via Love and Lavender

Vintage wedding, mismatched china, vintage tea party, vintage china

Image credit: Amanda Thiessen Photography via Style Me Pretty

Now then I just adore the vintage mismatched china look, and even though it has become incredibly popular here in the UK I think it’s one that will be staying around for a while. It is a really pretty, quirky and charming look that allows brides to create stunning tables at a relatively low cost. Particularly if you choose one of the great hire companies popping up all over the UK. You can usually hire each piece for around £1.50 each. This gorgeous wedding above shows just how it’s done, elegant but without looking too twee.

Wedding Photography, Pocketful of Dreams, Wedding Blog, Wedding Planning Blog

This week I was completely blown away by an amazing Beloved shoot of the “goddess-of-pink-haired-loveliness” otherwise known as Kat Williams~The Rock and Roll Bride, captured by the fabulous Marianne Taylor. Kat said on her blog Beloved is about “using emotional exercises in order to bring the couple together, in the moment, and into a state where they are not afraid to show their true selves and explore the connection they have”.

And wow, you have to check out these images, they are so intimate and beautiful. They really do illustrate so well the love between Kat and her husband Gareth, there is no awkwardness, no posing, just truly special moments. They look like two teenagers in love! You can see the session on Kat’s blog here and also on Marianne’s.

If you have been looking for the perfect engagement session for you and your partner then please do consider the Beloved style of photo shoot. The Beloved Movement is a website inspired by the work of photographer Jesh de Rox (the creator of Beloved) and features a number of these photography sessions so go check it out.

So that’s all for today folks I hope you have enjoyed my round-up for this week. I will be spending the rest of my sunday making yards and yards of bunting for the Vintage Tea Dance that I have coming up to celebrate my Nan’s 80th birthday.

How are you spending your Sunday, please do let me know?

Michelle Pocketful of Dreams Blog, Inspiration for love, life and living and stylish events

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3

Backyard Weddings ~ Where to Buyand How to DIY

By
michelle@pocketfulofdreams.co.uk
– March 25, 2011Posted in: Planning & Resources
Image credit: Jonas Peterson as featured on Pocketful of Dreams Blog So I was lucky enough this week to blog about a beautiful backyard wedding by the legend that is...

Image credit: Jonas Peterson as featured on Pocketful of Dreams Blog

So I was lucky enough this week to blog about a beautiful backyard wedding by the legend that is Jonas Peterson. If you missed it please do check out the post here A Jonas Peterson Backyard Wedding ~ Mikey and Felicity.

It was so lovely and intimate and for me represents everything a wedding should be about, the friends, the laughter, the good times, everyone feeling relaxed and comfortable and having an absolutely AMAZING time. And all in the comfort of their own backyard.

london_wedding_photography_creative_reportage_garden_museum_18

Image Credit: Marianne Taylor Photography

Backyard weddings are incredibly popular in Australia and the US, and why not when most parts have generally fab weather all-year-round. But what about those less fortunate UK brides who rely on about 3-days of sunshine a year?

Backyard Wedding, Outdoor Wedding, Rural Wedding, Garden Wedding

Backyard Wedding, Outdoor Wedding, Rural Wedding, Garden Wedding

Images credit: Dana Grant via Green Wedding Shoes

Well it’s certainly a risk to plump for a backyard wedding in the UK but don’t we all just love a challenge? And it’s not to say that throwing a wedding in your own backyard will be easier, or cheaper, not by any stretch of the imagination, there’s a lot of planning and logistics involved in throwing a bash like this, no hotel manager to scream at when things aren’t going to plan, and no team of cleaners to return the place to it’s former glory after your guests have long departed.

Backyard Wedding, Outdoor Wedding, Rural Wedding, Garden Wedding

Image credit: Sarah Yates Photography via Once Wed

Just think though how cool it would be, kicking back years from now and remembering those wonderful and special moments you shared with your nearest and dearest in your own home.

Unfortunately for brides in England and Wales there is also the really annoying issue of not actually being allowed to get married in your back garden. At the moment a wedding ceremony has to take place in a licensed venue, (there is a campaign running to change this see below*) but there is nothing to stop you heading to the registry office a few days before and completing all the necessary legalities then having your proper wedding with a little blessing and a rocking reception in your own back yard.

Backyard Wedding, Outdoor Wedding, Rural Wedding, Garden Wedding

Image credit: Wildflowers Photography via Green Wedding Shoes

Backyard weddings are cute, quirky, intimate and most of all can be totally about you and your style. Here’s my top tips on making it work for you…..

london_wedding_photography_creative_reportage_photojournalist_destination_france_52

Image Credit: Marianne Taylor Photography

It’s a numbers game

  • You need to consider carefully just how much space you have to accommodate the people you really want there on the day, you will need space for them to sit and eat, space for dancing and relaxing areas.
  • Where will everyone sit? How many tables and chairs will you need and will these need to be hired or can you borrow from friends and neighbours for a truly rustic feel? Benches are a good idea as they fit a lot more people than individual tables.
  • What about parking? You don’t want to annoy your whole street by creating a car-park outside your house so maybe consider finding an appropriate parking spot nearby (like a local school or church car park that’s not being used on that day) and then arrange for minibuses to ferry your guests back and forth from the car-park to your house.
  • Don’t forget facilities. If your numbers are nearing 50+ consider hiring portable loo’s and save your home from the inevitable traipsing in and out and long queues for the only 2 (or worse 1) bathrooms available.

london_wedding_photography_creative_reportage_photojournalist_marquee_clifftop_cornwall_72

Image Credit: Marianne Taylor Photography

Aim for the best but plan for the worst

  • We all know just how unpredictable the Great British weather can be so it would be wise to have a back-up plan and not focus the entire wedding on being outdoors. Consider your options carefully here and work out what indoor areas you can create as well, just in case. You may have access to a lovely barn nearby, rent a gazebo or consider hiring a marquee or tipi tents so you have some coverage if the heavens do open. These can also be heated if the day is less than scorching. The last thing you want is your guests feeling uncomfortable and miserable.

Backyard Wedding, Outdoor Wedding, Rural Wedding, Garden Wedding, Papa Kata Tents, Tipi Tents

Image Credit: Papa Kata Tents

  • Please consider your neighbours when planning your event. Even invite them along to the day if you know them well enough. It is likely they will feel some sense of disruption so only fair they have advance warning and if you don’t want to invite them along maybe you could offer them a day out at your expense instead.
  • You know it makes sense to get your home and garden in tip-top shape before the big day, ensure the exterior areas are clean, well maintained and looking pretty. Maybe plant new flowers ahead of time or bring in some pot plants for the day (even these can be hired), trim hedges and trees and mow the lawn a few days before (any later and you run the risk of upsetting hayfever sufferers).

Feed and water well

  • There are so many options you could consider to feed your guests, one of the best ways if you are trying to save money is to do it all yourself, with the help of friends and family of course. However the last thing you want to be doing on your wedding day is running around like a serving wench so make sure you have a few trusted friends who will lend a helping hand on the day and can also help you prepare in advance.
  • Why not try a cute english garden vintage tea party with little sandwiches, cakes and scones and specially prepared cocktails served from pretty english tea-pots. The vintage tea-party style is a perfect look for this type of wedding, lots of mismatched china (that can be collected from second-hand shops), floral, striped and dotty bunting hung everywhere, old-fashioned cakes and homemade jam as favours for your guests to create a truly homely feel.

london_wedding_photography_creative_reportage_photojournalist_garden_dorset_32rose and brendan

Image Credit: Marianne Taylor Photography

  • Or a rustic and tasty BBQ or hog roast, accompanied by a baked potato bar with a choice of fillings from cheese, to beans and sour cream and lots of beer barrels so guests can help themselves.
  • A fairground in your backyard, (now that would be cool), think mini hot-dogs and beefburgers, a candy station with toffee apples, marshmallows and candy floss (Yum), hoopla or even hire a vintage helter skelter.

london_wedding_photography_creative_reportage_photojournalist_destination_france_81

Image Credit: Marianne Taylor Photography

  • A picnic with striped folding deckchairs or lots of blankets and large cushions for a really laid-back feel, complete with retro cider station (with a lemonade option for your younger guests) and jugs of Pimms, it has to be Pimms at a picnic!. You could also hire Betty the retro ice cream van to create that feel of summers past.

Backyard Wedding, Outdoor Wedding, Rural Wedding, Garden Wedding

Image Credit: via Ruffled

  • You could get your guests in on the action and ask them all to contribute towards the food by baking a cake, making a quiche, bringing a selection of sandwiches – people love to feel involved.
  • If you want a more formal dining experience why not bring in the caterers?. There are so many fantastic ones available online you just have to do a little digging around and seek out recommendations from satisfied customers. They really can take the stress out of planning a backyard wedding by providing a complete service, from the high quality and delicious food, to trained staff, tableware and some even offer styling services. (Although this is the most fun part which you will probably want to sprinkle your own DIY magic onto)
  • Remember if you do choose the complete DIY option you will need to consider if you have enough cooking utensils, plates and crockery. (There are plenty of places you can hire these items though so don’t let it restrict you if you have your heart set on a total DIY affair). And keep in mind food hygiene, we may not have scorching weather very often in the UK but if it’s a hot day you will need to preserve food with lots of ice and keep things covered.
  • One final thing to remember is to keep people hydrated and that doesn’t necessarily mean just with alcohol. Being outdoors in the summer months can be dehydrating. You can fill lots of old rustic buckets with ice and have a selection of old-fashioned lemonade bottles, coca-cola and water, as well as the beer and wine on offer too.

london_wedding_photography_creative_reportage_photojournalist_suffolk_43

Image Credit: Marianne Taylor Photography

Make it pretty and make it fun

  • The really fun part of a backyard wedding in my opinion is the opportunity to really make it your own. Decor-wise there’s so many options open to you so use this chance to be really creative.
  • Bring the indoors outside and use some of your most loved furnishings, ornaments and pictures in your garden. Ornate gilt frames and even old chandeliers look amazing hanging from trees.

Images credit: Dana Grant via Green Wedding Shoes

  • Why not build your own wedding arch, if you have a friend who is handy with the wood get them involved and decorate with pretty flowers and foliage.
  • For a vibrant summer garden feel have colourful flowers and paper lanterns hanging everywhere.
  • Flowers can be fun and thrown together rather than the more formal look, which could look a little out of place. You have sooo many options from bright and colourful sunflowers to delicate daisies. Place them in mason jars or milk bottles for a rustic, casual look.

Backyard Wedding, Outdoor Wedding, Rural Wedding, Garden Wedding, Papa Kata Tents, Tipi Tents

Image Credit: Papa Kata Tents

  • Don’t forget lighting, as the sun goes down you will need to make sure the outside areas are still well lit. Again so many options, twinkly lights hanging from every branch and bush, flame torches, candles in mason jars and hanging from trees or lining pathways.
  • Music-wise you’re free to stick the ipod in it’s dock and crank up the volume (as long as your neighbours are on board with this it shouldn’t be a problem). But consider having a band to really make the event special, if you have the space and can dedicate an area to dancing, this can even be part of the lawn, as long as its clean and free from doggy-doo as those ladies wont be dancing in heels on grass so won’t want to be stepping into something icky.

Backyard Wedding, Outdoor Wedding, Rural Wedding, Garden Wedding

Images credit: Wildflowers Photography via Green Wedding Shoes

  • Outdoor games will keep your guests entertained, set-up a treasure hunt, play croquet or boules on the lawn, set up a games table with cards, cribbage and draughts boards. Or even better create your own unique game, you can make the rules and really personalise it to involve everyone.
  • …..and why not set-off fireworks at the end of the night for a really spectacular finish.

Backyard Wedding, Outdoor Wedding, Rural Wedding, Garden Wedding

Image Credit: The Last Forty Percent Photography via Inspired by This

Sometimes we all need a helping hand

We all need a helping hand sometimes so make-sure you check out these guys when planning your own backyard shindig:

  • The appropriately named Backyard Weddings (available in Yorkshire and the North East) are a relatively new company formed to deliver you a complete wedding package including ceremony, marquee, styling, catering and management.
  • If you’re looking for teepee style tents then try PapaKåta® – Beautiful tents for amazing events. 1 Kata can hold up to 70 guests and includes flooring, lighting, dance floor and seating. For more guests additional Kata’s are joined together and they can even be used in less warm weather with the addition of wood burning stoves to keep the tootsies warm. If you are interested in seeing these in action they have a spring open weekend 16th-17th April near York.
  • Dance floor hire for outdoor use can be found here and here. Or maybe you need grass protection matting to prevent damage to your well-loved lawn.
  • Take care of your guests by offering the women special heel protectors to keep their lovely shoes clean and stop them sinking into the grass. Maybe even provide a selection of wellies, or ask guests to bring their own if you think it’s going to be particularly dirty. If it’s warm and sunny you could offer a basket full of wedding flip-flops for guests to use on the day and take home with them as their favours.
  • If you are looking for outside party accessories with a sophisticated edge then you have to check out the wonderful Cox and Cox, these guys really know how to accessorise a party. From their wooden Wedding, Party, Parking and The Loo signs to their lovely light garlands, I particularly love the Maroq light garland and their Kilner sun jar, who doesn’t love sunshine in a glass?

london_wedding_photography_creative_reportage_photojournalist_marquee_clifftop_cornwall_65

Image Credit: Marianne Taylor Photography

Real backyard wedding inspiration

I have selected some of the best, most rocking and cool, real-backyard weddings for you to drool over. It’s often the case that the real outdoor weddings featuring across wedding blog-land are mainly in the USA or Australia, and why not, hell I’d live outside if I had their weather. But don’t be put off you can still gleen lots of inspiration from them, I have also found a bunch of UK ones too to whet your appetite for your own backyard extravaganza.

From the UK

london_wedding_photography_creative_reportage_photojournalist_destination_france_55

Image Credit: Marianne Taylor Photography

From the USA

So are any of you planning your own backyard ball? I would really love to hear your stories so please do share with us your tips, tales and tribulations.

I really and truly hope you have enjoyed reading this post as much as I enjoyed putting it together, I find myself feeling so lucky to be able to share with you the work of so many talented photographers as well as the monumental creativity of the brides and grooms whose wedding days really are the stuff dreams are made of.

….and I hope you are feeling suitably inspired.

Much love,


Michelle Pocketful of Dreams Blog, Inspiration for love, life and living and stylish events

* Open air weddings are not permitted in England and Wales. The law states that a marriage ceremony venue must have a roof, be moored to its foundations, and licensed by the local registrar and that the ceremony must take place between 8am and 6pm. The Any Campaign requests your help in getting these laws relaxed so that we can all have the wedding of our dreams! Read the full story… and add your name to the growing petition.

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0

The Wedding Dream Team ~ Artcadia Invitations and Stationery

By
michelle@pocketfulofdreams.co.uk
– March 24, 2011Posted in: Dream Team, Stationery
Today I have another treat in store for you in the form of specialist wedding stationery design studio Artcadia. You can have all your wedding paper goods covered by these guys...

Today I have another treat in store for you in the form of specialist wedding stationery design studio Artcadia. You can have all your wedding paper goods covered by these guys from invites to RSVP cards, save the date cards, menu’s, table plans, and order of service booklets.

Wedding Invitations, Wedding Stationery, Artcadia, Save the Date, Menu Cards, Order of Service

And their designs are blooming gorgeous, really unique and really rather stylish. Their collections include Vintage Inspirations, Nautical and Destination, Carnival, Rustic Handmade and a cool Contemporary style to name but a few. You really can have the stationery of your dreams, as they say “there are no set design templates you’re stationery doesn’t exist yet (Love that!) as you choose the mood, colour palette and text for a unique execution”.

Wedding Invitations, Wedding Stationery, Artcadia, Save the Date, Menu Cards, Order of Service

Wedding Invitations, Wedding Stationery, Artcadia, Save the Date, Menu Cards, Order of Service

Run by a truly lovely husband and wife team, who describe themselves as “polar opposites in terms of work ethic”. Vici-Jane is a former graphic designer and marketer who says her “head is always in the clouds, concocting paper based ideas” while Richard has always had a soft spot for bygone era printing and is “practical, methodical and a dab hand on a letterpress machine”. But they agree on one thing “Neither would function without the other”. As you can see from the image of them above, hard at work together in their studio.

Wedding Invitations, Wedding Stationery, Artcadia, Save the Date, Menu Cards, Order of Service

Artcadia was born in 2009 after their own search for unique and ethical wedding invitations left them feeling a little flat “We got very frustrated when looking for our own wedding stationery, website after website of identikit stationery with a diamante stuck on it. So, we thought we’d use what talent we had to start Artcadia, where we try to create very unique wedding paper goods”

Wedding Invitations, Wedding Stationery, Artcadia, Save the Date, Menu Cards, Order of Service

They now create high-quality cards using a variety of printing methods including digital, letterpress and hot foiling and try to incorporate as many recycled or biodegradable products into each design as possible.

Wedding Invitations, Wedding Stationery, Artcadia, Save the Date, Menu Cards, Order of Service

Vici-Jane summed up Artcadia’s style beautifully “Our designs come from the heart, they are very personal to us and the people we work with – as opposed to being led by trends”.

All the details

Contact:

Artcadia Wedding Stationery
Norwood, Upper Battlefield, Shrewsbury. SY4 4AA
T: 01939 210 393 / 07940 469 724
E: vici@artcadia.co.uk
W: www.artcadia.co.uk
Blog: artcadia-wedding-stationery.blogspot.com

Price Guide:

Digital Printing:
  • Save the date card (inc envelope)  - each: £2.10 – £3.00
  • Invitation (inc envelope) – each: £3.45 – £4.95
Letterpress:
  • Save the date card (inc envelope) – each: £4.25
  • Invitation (inc envelope)  - each: £4.95 – £5.50

See online price guide for further information.

How to order:

  • There are a variety of ranges available to order online, all with bespoke options. Simply select the designs you like and required quantities then Artcadia will gather your event details
  • You will receive a digital proof (within 3 working days) for approval and once approved the stationery is printed and sent out to you (within 3 weeks)
  • For those wanting a fully bespoke design service  Artcadia can provide this and it’s free! So if you have a great eye for design these guys are the perfect pair to transform your vision into reality.
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11

A Jonas Peterson Backyard Wedding ~ Mikey and Felicity

By
michelle@pocketfulofdreams.co.uk
– March 22, 2011Posted in: Real Weddings
What do you get if Jonas Peterson is your mate and you are getting married in your backyard?…. ….Only the greatest party on earth. EVER. This is why I started...

What do you get if Jonas Peterson is your mate and you are getting married in your backyard?….

….Only the greatest party on earth. EVER.

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

This is why I started blogging in the first place, to be able to feature, admire and share the real weddings of super-cool people like these.

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

And Oh. My. God. Not only are the images simply OUT OF THIS WORLD, they are also captured by the demi-god of photographers that is Jonas Peterson. He put a call out on twitter oooh, about 90 minutes ago, welcoming wedding bloggers to blog about this beauty. Did I need any convincing to feature it? Hell no, it’s like a dream come true.

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Backyard weddings are rising in popularity, even in the UK with our dodgy weather, and this is the mother of all backyard weddings, ever, for ever and ever. FACT. (Can you tell I’m excited?).

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Mikey and Felicity are the couple doing the marrying and they are friends with Jonas Peterson, they got married at the back of their house with family, kids, friends and dogs around them. (LOVE IT)

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Jonas said “These are my friends and the images mean a lot to me. The portraits are taken on the street outside their house. It was a pretty fantastic day”.

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

The people in these images are raw, they are honest, they know how to have a good time, they are beautiful, they are eclectic and most of all they are totally 100% REAL!

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Here is the ultimate backyard wedding in all it’s glory for your enjoyment.

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding

Jonas Peterson, Wedding Photography, Backyard Wedding
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Huge, massive, enormous Pocketful of Dreams love to Jonas Peterson for letting me feature these on this here blog of mine. And to Mikey and Felicity for being so cool. You can see more images over on Jonas’ blog by clicking here. He is based in Brisbane, Australia and while you are on his blog make sure you check out his other work as it is simply mind-blowingly good.

This is not an exclusive feature and you will probably see it elsewhere on your travels round blog-land but I really don’t care, it’s not every day a blogger like me is fortunate enough to share the photographs of a legend so I’ve wasted no time in bringing them to you my readers of Pocketful Of Dreams.

Share the love I say, because when you find something as unique, and honest and as real as this it just needs to be shared. WITH THE WORLD!

Big love, Michelle x x

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1

This dreamer loves….a colour explosion

By
michelle@pocketfulofdreams.co.uk
– March 22, 2011Posted in: Weddings & Parties

Thought I would have a little colour explosion of loves this week in homage to this A-mazing image of Nicki Minaj – when I saw it, it made my insides tickle it’s so fab.

Nicki-Minaj-for-Blackbook-March-2011-DesignSceneNet, Colourful interior decor ideas

Image Credit: Design Scene

Fab decor details by Stylist Lucyina Moodie

Pretty floral interior, Wedding ideas, Colourful interior decor ideas

Image Credit: Lucyina Moodie

Coloured Cupcake Tea Light Holders from Rockett St George

coloured-cupcake-tea-light-holders

Image credit: Rockett St George

Candy accessories in a colour-filled story by fashion photographer Jeff Tse

Wang-Xiao-by-Jeff-Tse-DesignSceneNet-04a

Image Credit: Jeff Tse

Yummy

Colourful interior decor ideas

Image Credit: Fuckyeahawesomefood

You can always rely on nature to create what’s most beautiful

Colourful interior decor ideas

Image credit: You must create

We’re only just wrapping our heads around Pantone’s Honeysuckle colour for 2011 and here is a sneak preview of their predictions for 2012 home and housewares

Colourful interior decor ideas

Image credit: Apartment Therapy

Artists mug with bird in avocado and turquoise

Colourful interior decor ideas, green mug

Image credit: LennyMud shop on Etsy.com

An aquamarine dream fine art print – how can I not include this one when I’m all about the dreams baby?

Fine art image of fairground ride, Colourful interior decor ideas

Image credit: Retrospect Photo on Etsy.com

A super colourful interior design

Colourful interior decor ideas

Image credit: Alexandra ANGLE Interior DESIGN.

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6

Vintage Brooch Bouquets – Where to Buy and How To DIY

By
michelle@pocketfulofdreams.co.uk
– March 21, 2011Posted in: Planning & Resources
Image credit: Glamour and Grace Weddings Good morning all. I hope you are all well on this lovely fine morning and looking forward to the week ahead. I have lots...

Image credit: Glamour and Grace Weddings

Good morning all. I hope you are all well on this lovely fine morning and looking forward to the week ahead. I have lots of sparkly loveliness for you today to make your Monday morning just a teensy bit better.

Now I know a lot of brides-to-be who have been coveting one of these super-gorgeous vintage brooch bouquets for their wedding day and they have fast become a really popular alternative to the traditional flower bouquet.

Vintage Brooch Bouquet, Alternative Wedding Bouquet, DIY wedding ideas

Image Credit: Fantasy Floral Designs

Not only do they look stunning they are also a lovely keepsake from the day, that can either be kept in all it’s glory or dismantled to enjoy and use at a later date.

They truly are works of art – only thing is these bespoke lovelies ‘don’t-come-cheap’.

Vintage Brooch Bouquet, Alternative Wedding Bouquet, DIY wedding ideas

Image Credit: Fantasy Floral Designs

And why should they? – not when you consider the painstaking sourcing of all the proper vintage materials and hours upon hours of work that goes into creating the intricate detailing of these wonderful visual feasts.

Vintage Brooch Bouquet, Alternative Wedding Bouquet, DIY wedding ideas

Image Credit: Intimate Weddings

There are many specialist designers out there who create bespoke masterpieces, some of the best ones I have found include:

It is worth contacting each one as many will deliver throughout the UK for a fee, some even ship worldwide.

Vintage Brooch Bouquet, Alternative Wedding Bouquet, DIY wedding ideas

Image Source: Hairbows Wonderworld

Alas, however, not everyone has the budget for a bespoke design. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have one too, if you do have a little craft know-how and plenty of time on our hands you too could have a go at making your own, I have included my top-tips for creating your own as well as some fab tutorials.

My top tips for creating this look:

  • Don’t try to copy the wonderful designers above, they are experts at their craft, and spend a lot of time coming up with the perfect design which they don’t want to see ripped-off by a DIY bride. It’s unethical and unfair.  You can still create something as magical just be creative and put your own stamp on the design.
  • Source vintage fairs, car boots and ebay for old brooches, earrings, necklaces and bracelets
  • Try Etsy for supplies, they have a range of sellers, mainly US based but a growing number in the UK also and are the perfect source for all kinds of crafting items
  • Ask your family and friends if they have any old jewellery knocking about that you can use. This is a particularly nice way of going about it as when the day rolls around and they see you walking down the aisle they will feel proud of the fact they have helped you create something so beautiful and special
  • Don’t just stick to brooches and other jewellery, you can use ribbon, feathers and even a few fresh flowers to accompany your glistening jewels
  • When the day is over, these beauties can be cherished forever as a keepsake or dismantled and shared out amongst close friends – this way they always have a little piece of your wedding day as a reminder of how fab it was. (Too cute!)

How-to Know-How

If you’re a dab hand at craft then check out these brilliant tutorials….

DIY vintage Brooch Bouquet tutorial, Vintage Brooch Bouquet, Alternative Wedding Bouquet, DIY wedding ideas

Image Credit: Fancy Pants Weddings via Emmaline Bride

I would love to know what kind of bouquet you have chosen for your wedding and if you are going for a vintage-broouch inspired design. Or if you even being brave enough to try one of these tutorials, be sure to let me know.

Michelle Pocketful of Dreams Blog, Inspiration for love, life and living and stylish events

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