The Good Stuff: Handmades

I’m not where near finished highlighting or talking about Brown Linen & Company, far from it!  This is the last category of Good Stuff- 'Handmades' which are so endearing.  I’m not quite sure how Abany creates her pieces, perhaps oil or water color paints, but the results and work is beautiful. 
For whatever type of occasion you’re having, special memories that take on tangible forms are always a thumbs up. 

Abany takes the time to create your item with love and care. The attention to detail is unparalleled and a timeless keepsake.  Everything from necklaces, to totes, to personalized love notes- rhyming not intended :)
Thanks Abany!

*Pricing based on item created

Photo Sources:  Brown Linen & Co., Achor & Eden, B Steel Photography

First Day of Summer: Watermelon Social

It's officially the first day of summer.  And according to the news DC will get a full 15 hours of daylight- nice! As a kid I remember summer began as soon as the last bell rang, letting us free for 3 months.  Now at 25, summer starts when the first firework lights up the sky.  It's a feeling I get, can't explain it. I was inspired by summer, Big Fish, and my friend who just bought a watermelon knife- made only to cut watermelons. It has holes to accomdate seeds, simple perfection.

Personal Favorite:  Watermelon Knife

Enjoy!

Sources:  Elizabeth Anne Designs, Vests-Dana Grant,  Bella Figura 'Savannah' invitation, Wedding Chicks Dessert Table, Big Fish, Adrienne and Colin picnic wedding and alfresco

Who Says You Have To Pay For It All?

One of our beginning posts was about  gown shopping and what to look for when you go to your appointment (not to worry, we’ll have more posts soon about this subject!).  As always, one of my sticking points was knowing your budget before trying on gowns. I had made the suggestion that if you don’t want to spend a lot of money, but want a designer gown, to consider purchasing a resale gown. 

PERSONAL FAVORITE:  PreownedWeddingDresses.com

Pre-Owned Wedding Dresses (POWD) has over 7,200 dresses that are new sample dresses or used gowns (ah hem, used meaning worn once for may be 8 hours).  You can sort by designer, size, best deals, dresses they love, and their most popular choices.  POWD will help you find your dream dress at 10-90% off of the retail price, with over 700 accessories to match.  They don’t have a physical location 

Want to sell your dress? You can do that as well.  POWD lets brides know that about 40% of the dresses that are listed actually sold. The competition comes from the new sample dresses they receive which haven’t been worn.  I saw a sample Vera Bradley gown, never worn, for $3,800 (from this previous season!).  I think that calls for a toast.

Don’t just settle for a dress because it’s in your price range. If there’s a will, there’s a way- do your research and homework to find out how you can find your dress at the price you need it to be.    Prices on POWD are determined by the seller.  If the dress you want is pre-owned, you have a better chance of being able to work with the seller on negotiating the price.

If you're worried about not having your gown be "your own".. psh!  It is your own because the day you purchase it and say "I do" to ghte gown, it becomes yours. And who says anyone has to know your gown is a sample or pre-owned.... a lot more people do it than you think, and you would never know :)

Apologies!

Where have I been this week?! I'm working on adding some new pages and features to the blog for your viewing pleasure.  I appreciate all of your page views and feedback.  What's in store?

•  Pricing and sample Weddingscapes
• "About me"
•  Contact information
•  Inspiration board scrolls
• Tips & Tricks

Can't wait to share next week- everyone have a safe and wonderful weekend!

Something Truly Funky

Happy Friday! First off, a BIG thank you to Abany of Brown Linen Company who was gracious enough to mention CharlotteLucey on her blog.  She's our first BIG Internet pickup and I can't thank her enough for her kind words!  Make sure to check it out at http://www.brownlinen.blogspot.com/- WHOO HOO 2 posts in 2 days!

A friend of mine created this fantastic comic strip using some of the photos from Lauren and Aarons Engagement (She Said Yes!) I immediately asked her how she created something so fantastic and she told me to go to...


PERSONAL FAVORITE:  BEFUNKY.COM 

I have been playing on this site for 2 days straight and can't get enough of it.  How fun is this?!!?  You can edit, apply effects, and get artsy with your photos.  I'm a huge fan of vintage photos and within 3 seconds can make your own. I also like turning myself into a cartoon which is always fun to see.

Have a great weekend, be inspired, and add some funk if you can. Cheers!

Brown Linen & Co.- The Good Stuff Calligraphy

It’s not your everyday handwriting… or calligraphy for that matter.  We’ve officially introduced you to Brown Linen & Co and “The Good Stuff”.  Next to share with you is Abany’s Calligraphy.   I couldn’t say it any better myself so will let you read the philosophy behind the creation of such unique script.

CALLIGRAPHYInvitations and save-the-dates are often the first opportunity to convey the look and feel of your special day.Whether it is the simple lettering to grace the face of envelopes, or the invitations to announce a momentous occasion, Brown Linen & Co. prides itself on creating delicate and polished calligraphy to commence your event.

What I love about Abany’s unique style of handwritten treats is that they can be presented in a formal or casual setting.  Earlier, when I first introduced Brown Linen & Co. on the blog I stated there was a certain rusticity that accentuated the uniqueness of the creation.  As you can see there is no exception to the pieces shown. Contact Abany at abany@brownlinengoods.com and go to www.Brownlinengoods.com

Photo Credit:  Achor & Eden & Candace Moore

She Said Yes!!!

It's official!  Congratulations to Lauren Hodgin, who just said YES, to Aaron Berkey :)  I couldn't be happier for the both of you!

With Love, 

Renee 

Funky Friday: This Time Sweet

Just hanging around until I can make a very special and exciting announcement later this evening... stay tuned!

Photography:  Mandy Lynne

The Good Stuff: Styling

Before the holiday I introduced Brown Linen & Co. along with founder and designer, Abany Tschupp.  We graced over her specialities and “the good stuff” which includes:  Styling, calligraphy, and handmades. Brown Linen & Co. has a unique perspective that Abany offers her clients.  As such we wanted to make sure the CharlotteLucey audience had as much exposure to Brown Linen & Co. as possible. Which takes us to the first “the good stuff”, styling (and this isn't even scratching the surface)...

Photo Credit: Achor & Eden

STYLING
At Brown Linen & Co., we believe that each event is an opportunity to unite even the smallest detail to create an aesthetic that is cohesive, as well as uniquely you. From handmade menus to the very lights that twinkle above the heads of your loved ones, Brown Linen & Co. will craft an unforgettable atmosphere for you and your guests. www.brownlinengoods.com

Abany offers event design and styling for weddings, photo shoots, and social occasions.   Based in Atlanta, GA, Abany will travel and work with clients wherever they, or their events, are held.  Like CharlotteLucey, Brown Linen & CO. works with you to brainstorm and create a memorable experience for your occasion.

Most recently, Abany won the competition at the Wedding Day Hooray in Atlanta on 5/21-22 for her tablescape (photography by Achor & Eden).  You can see the vast range of talent from the thoughtfulness presented in Abany’s event design as well as her styling expertise for photo shoots as pictured below from photo shoot with Atlanta jewelry designer Mickey Lynn and photographer Andy Brophy.

Take Our Breath Away!

BHLDN continues to amaze me with the addition of honeymoon inspired clothes, jewelry, and other accessories.  Whether you have a Seaside Honeymoon, Romantic City Honeymoon, or Countryside Honeymoon... BHLDN has you covered!

PERSONAL FAVORITE:  Vivid Fuchsia Maxi Dress

It's All About the Choos!

Jimmy Choo that is.  Jimmy Choo is one of the world’s leading women’s wear shoe designers with classic, modern, trendy, and over the top soles and sacks (purses). I’ve kept these shoes to myself for too long and must share!

PERSONAL FAVORITE: Private

It’s not sequence or glued glitter; instead it’s a glitter fabric that covers this platform sandal.  The fantastic part about this shoe is that it can absolutely be worn again for any type of occasion.  The sandal silhouette with middle cut out and open toe is perfect for any night out on the town. 

The price is steep, I’m not going to lie. But if you decide to splurge on something, and you want it to be your shoes than it has to be this one.  Especially for the fact that many brides, like their gowns, only wear their bridal shoes just once. If you’re a fashionista that splurges on accessories, budget for one pair of shoes instead of buying 3! 

I can’t help but imagine a ball gown or full a-line skirt hiding these underneath the layers of fabric. 

Personal Favorite II: Amsale Calista and Meghan

Private in the bridal collection on the Jimmy Choo website is only available in glitter gold, but comes in full and half sizes.  I haven’t seen these shoes in person, but the gold looks light enough that it could match silver/platinum accessories if you’re a stickler for matching.  Or if you simply love them that much than who cares, especially since they’ll be a hidden surprise on your feet.  You’ll stand a full 120mm taller- 4.7 inches!  Might I suggest having an extra pair of shoes or sport some flip flops at the reception.  Your feet will get tired. A little glitter or height never hurt anyone and it’s just such a fun shoe!

A really fantastic trend I'm noticing are colored shoes. It's not just about gold, silver, or ivory anymore. Brides are matching their shoes to their choice colors or incorporating them into their "Something blue". Remember the 'Newport Nuptials' blog not too long ago?  Jen Board had the perfect pair of satin blue Badgley Mischka pumps.  Our blog from yesterday (below) also featured yellow bridal shoes. 

For fun and flirty bridal shoes with a twist visit BHLDN's 'Shoes'. CharlotteLucey love items.

Black & Yellow

CharlotteLucey only received 1 vote (the audience is still growing), but the worst wedding color combination pick is “Black and Yellow”.   After some research and review, certain color combinations can  be less desirable than others, but done in moderation (such as black and yellow) are very modern and tasteful

Black is typically thought of as an evening color, but paired with the brightness of a true yellow is appropriate for a summer day wedding.  If you want to incorporate black and yellow for an evening wedding, my suggestion would be to go with a softer pale yellow or neutral cream. I was really pleased to find a great blog “Ruffled’ that has wedding inspiration boards and features and they showcased a modern antiqued wedding with yellow.

Personal Favorite: Mix and match bridal party yellow shoes

For a summer wedding, guest favors such as paper fans, flip flops, or honey jars (pictured) are sweet ideas. They can also serve a dual purpose as your favor and place card in one. All you have to do is attach a small tag and name to the item and you’re set.

TIPS AND TRICKS:  I always encourage brides to give favors that their guests can really use or consume. 

Sources:  1 & 2. WeddingPaperDivas ‘Spring Mums’ invitation and response card, 3. Birdeorama 'Black and Yellow Wedding Flowers', 4. Ruffled blog ‘Leah and Tim’ yellow bridal shoes,  5. Ruffled blog ‘Leah and Tim’ cropped bride with maids, 5. BHLDN ‘Glass Glitter’ in gold, 6.  Amy Atlas ‘Mod Dessert Table’ 7. DexKnows Honey Jars

* Ruffled blog photography via Two Pair Photography

Happy Memorial Day Weekend

Funky Friday will commence next week.  Wishing everyone a safe and happy Memorial Day (loooooong) weekend!  Aren't they the best?!

We only got 1 vote (hey, we're still growing our population), but it appears that the 'Worst Wedding Color Combination' is.... BLACK AND YELLOW!  I'm looking forward to getting creative and showing you the pretty!  I'll see you next Tuesday!

La Vie en Rose

C'est simple. Cette inspiration vient de 'La Vie en Rose' par Edith Piaf.

Personally I enjoy the raspy, masculine version by Louis Armstrong.  Nonetheless it's about light and airy, powerful and sweet, beautiful and fulfilling...love.

PERSONAL FAVORITE:  Monique Lhuillier 'Guiliana' Gown

Sources: 1. Monique Lhuillier 'Guiliana' Spring 2011, 2.  Carrie and Big, Annie Leibovitz for Vogue, 3. Louis Armstrong, Pediaview, 4.  Elizabeth Messina Photography, 5. Bella Figura 'Classic Calligraphy' invitation, 6. Sparkle and Hay 'Champagne Tray', 7. Ron Ben Israel 'No.3' Lace and Beading cake

Not Your Everyday Handwriting

I’d like to introduce everyone to Brown Linen & Co.  Based out of Atlanta, Georgia, owner and designer Abany has created a unique point of view for her clients. Brown Linen & Co has what Abany calls (and what I agree with)… 'the good stuff'.  The good stuff includes  handmades, calligraphy, and styling.

I'd also like to send a very happy CONGRATULATIONS to Abany, who just became engaged on Monday! 

PERSONAL FAVORITE:  Calligraphy

I find the level of intricacy unparalleled.  I have yet to find a calligrapher who scribbles outside of the lines.  Still artistic and formal, the style of calligraphy Abany produces is very modern with a touch of rusticity.   Brown Linen & Co. works with all types of folks for whatever reason or occasion they need items for.

Abany is inspired by"structured chaos [and] has a heart for designing experiences and environments that involve as many of one's senses as possible".

CharlotteLucey is doing a series on Brown Linen & Co. that will feature each category of good stuff.  Stay tuned for Brown Linen & Co. once a week for the next 4 weeks.... and I'm sure much more than that!

What is a Weddingscape?

Thanks to all who have requested and received their Weddingscapes! I have such a great time helping create what you envision for your day!  As a reminder to those who are planning a wedding, or those who are are involved in the planning process (bridesmaids, MOH’s, mothers, etc.) I wanted to take a minute to showcase what a Weddingscape is and how you can get one!

A Weddingscape is the visual presentation of what the client envisions for their day.  It's a jump start to the planning process that provides information on products, items, vendors, etc.  Here's FAQ's to better explain.




How is the process started?
If you’re interested in having a Weddingscape created, email me at charlottelucey.info@gmail.com. 

What does CharlotteLucey need?
The basics.  Over coffee, email, or phone, a simple conversation will help me understand  what you are trying to achieve for your special day.

Timing

Depending on the amount of detail, length of the presentation, and number of requests, a Weddingscape can take 5-10 business days to complete and send to you!

How Is a Weddingscape Packaged?

Without giving too much away, I begin my creative process by hand (sample to the right).  From there, I create the Weddingscape using a program on my Macbook and convert the presentation into a PDF that makes its way to you. 

Can I See A Sample?
Absolutely.  Never purchase without a test drive.

Will My Weddingscape Be Shared With Other Brides?
No.  I understand how important it is to keep certain details regarding your wedding under wraps!  It's up to the Bride whether she would like to add her Weddingscape to the CharlotteLucey sample portfolio after her wedding is complete.

Cost
Standard 4 Page: $75.00
(includes inventory lists and sources, 2 page concept spread, 1 round of edits)

Additional page(s): $25.00 per page
Additional edits:  $10.00 per round

Custom Weddingscape packages can be made available

Why Does It Cost Money?
Without charging you the cost of a down payment for a new car, I’m sharing an extensive catalogue of venues, vendors, ideas, products and resources.  On average, a full-service event planner can cost between $5,000-$10,000…. Believe me when I tell you that fee can get higher depending on the planners reputation, experience, and clientele.

As a consultant my goal is to achieve 2 things:

1. To make the planning process easier for you so the $5,000-$10,000 can go towards your wedding, not another person. 
2. To showcase new and unique ideas to make your wedding as memorable for YOU as possible. 

Consulting
Other consulting services are available, please email me for more information and cost at CharlotteLucey.info@gmail.com

Newport Nuptials

Congratulations to  Jennifer & AJ Board who were married on April 16, 2011 in Newport Rhode Island. Set with a backdrop of sea and sky, the couple’s photo’s look nothing short of an editorial spread.  Despite what had been described as challenging weather, the couple shown through the eye of the lens and captured some amazing photos. 

PERSONAL FAVORITE:  Blue Satin Badgley Mischka Shoes 
Jen did a CharlotteLucey favorite by wearing a pair of colored satin shoes by Badgley Mischka (blue none the less).  The gown designer of choice was Jim Hjelm with a fitted bodice, lace applique and deep V back.  Complimentary to the orange and navy colors, the bridesmaids wore silk-sating dresses and another A+ to Jen for mixing and matching the styles of dresses while keeping a constant color.  

PERSONAL FAVORITE II:  Raw Photo Design
Who photographed the wedding and did a stellar job.  Based out of Connecticut they shoot in CT, MA, RI, and NY regularly, but are available for travel worldwide.  Their philosophy is to produce photos that are unconventional, fresh, and innovative.

 I asked the groom how they came up with the photo where he has his bride over his shoulder, and the explanation could have been better, "You know, we'd been out there in the wind and cold for half an hour and just decided we needed to haul out." Not staged or posed, what you see in Jen & AJ’s photo’s is just them as they are.   Congratulations again you two!

 Click Here for More

Glory to These!

Remember when wearing a paper hat at a birthday party, especially one you created yourself was super fun and considered an artistic achievement? Well here's a fresh take on those early-childhood memories AND a funky more playful way to celebrate the latest hat trend (thanks to The Royal Wedding).

PERSONAL FAVORITE:  GLORY B HATS 

I am happy to report that my mom and I purchased 4 of these when we came across them in a store on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.  I'm personally fond of mine- it reminded me of the hat I might've worn had I been a lost boy in Neverland or a mischievous nin-come-poop in 'Where the Wild Things Are' (that's mine over there).

Yes we surprised my sister on her 28th birthday in public wearing these hats, and to our surprised she jumped on the bandwagon, put on her purple birthday hat and we all sat for pictures while curious eyes stared at us from almost every table. 

Based out of Fort Valley Georgia, artist and milliner Jennie Hart Robinson has created one of a kind pieces of art to wear on your head.  They are all made using 100% recycled paper and better yet, just putting on one of these hats instantly lifts your mood and will make you giggle (you should've heard my mother snorting in the store when she found these).

Products that make you feel good and encourage laughter is CharlotteLucey approved- as Glory B Hats says, " Each hat is an individual creation –a true expression of the daily celebration of life and laughter".

BRIDES & BRIDAL PARTY MEMBERS:  These make great keepsakes and will contribute to all of the fun memory-building that occurs before, during, and after the wedding.  Want to do something other than a guest book?  Get a bride and groom hat and place them with pens at the reception- it will be a great way to scrapbook all of the fun memories from your day.

Bridesmaids- toss out the regular bridal veil for the bachelorette and get a custom hat that's festive and different!  Brides- want to have something special for your bridal party at your shower?  Get them each a hat that reflects their personality- I promise you'll have some great photos!

We'll be highlighting Glory B Hats often, with new ideas, products, and information about this glorious company!

Thanks Jennie!

Funky Friday

Enjoy "Hello"- truly funky and great for a Friday. See you all next week with a wedding profile, Brown Linen & Co, and Glory B Hats.

Bella of the Ball

Letter press refers to the process where the lettering and design of your invitation or stationary product is literally pressed into the paper. Letterpress typically comes on a thicker stock paper, some with texture, some without, but it has a heavier feel in the hands of the reader.  The ink is set deep and rich within the pages, as the CharlotteLucey Personal Favorite describes.

PERSONAL FAVORITE:  Bella Figura

And that is just a small bite...Bella Figura, based out of Syracuse, New York, conducts their business the old fashioned way using  vintage cast-iron presses. Their philosophy is simple- only use the best, create the best, and do it with love for the product and result. We also love their about them section of the website... why wouldn't CharlotteLucey like them with an "Our Story"page that is just a unique as their products.

Because of the multi-step process, along with the quality of design and paper stock, letterpress can run a bit more expensive than your standard wedding invitation. Bella figura also prints on tree-free 100% percent cotton stock. The result is dynamic, beautiful, and is deeply appreciated by the creator, client, and viewer.  Letterpress takes on many forms, can come in many colors and fits all types of occasions (modern, vintage, and  classic). What else does CharlotteLucey love about Bella Figura? 1% of all sales goes towards environmentally-friendly causes.

All of the photos above are from Bella Figura, and we strongly suggest checking out their Real Weddings  page.  Also for your viewing pleasure is a short video of the Bella Figura pressing studio where you can see the process first-hand.

You may be weary of ordering an invitation without being able to hold the product in your hand- fear not, that’s why samples can readily be made available to you.  Never buy a car without test-driving it first. Request as many as you can and like.  Ink color samples are also available, and as always, proofs of your final will always be sent to you prior to the order being submitted for pressing and printing.

Bella Figura is a one-stop-shop for all of your wedding stationary needs from save-the-date announcements, to invitations, reply cards, menus, coasters, thank you’s, etc. It’s all in one place, match or mix-and-match ready for you.

Sources (all Bella Figura):  1. Typology, 2. Simple Poppy, 3. Real Wedding 'A Vintage Chic New Zealand Celebration', 4. Paradise, 5. Surya, 6. Real Wedding- 'A Vintage Chic New Zealand Celebration', 7. Real Wedding- 'Gatsy & Calligraphy'