Julie Will You Marry Me?

This post comes from a very unlikely source (thanks eyespeak!). A friend of mine told me his coworker had glanced at my blog and found something she had been looking for- woo hoo!  I don’t know a lot about the company these 2 work for so checked out their site and blog. I was interested in reading the first post from the Friday Favorite entry from 7/22.  It should be no surprise that I automatically clicked and found this…

PERSONAL FAVORITE: JULIE WILL YOU MARRY ME?

Jim, the guy Julie lives with, has created a one of a kind, personal, artistic, funny, and downright cool website to… wait for it…. Wait for it… propose to his girlfriend (duh she said yes). The illustrations are fantastic and I have every intention of highlighting Aly Bellissimo and Socks Incorporated in the very near future.

Fellas- if the words aren’t coming to you or you think you’ll be distracted by fumbling words, sweaty arm pits and clammy hands, or if you just think you're going to pass out… this could be a nice alternative.  And something you can keep for always. 

They're Here

Look above and you'll see the newly added About Me and Contact Pages.  If you have a question, comment, concern, or just something to share I'd love to hear from you anytime!


The middle of summer and 100+ degree heat waves have slowed the CharlotteLucey parade some. Have no fear!  A friendly reminder which provided the same pinch as sitting on a needle has me up and running again.  Can't wait to share more with you. 


Stay cool and hydrated! 

Cotton Candy Arrival

For those of you who may be glued to the Food Network or Cooking Channel like I am, this new favorite food fad will be of no surprise.  Cotton Candy has been around for decades, but is making a new type of appearance.  No more is the spun web of sugar a mere side-kick, but rather the main event of inspiration. 
Cotton candy is now used to inspire everything from event couture, to drinks, to the food we eat. 

PERSONAL FAVORITE:  Vera Wang Dress #3 Fall 2011

Cotton Candy Martini?  No problem, take your favorite cotton candy and place it in a martini glass.  Mix of up your favorite vodka concoction and pour over the cotton candy. Your left with a sinfully sweet and delicious cocktail.  It’s also a fun surpriseyou’re your guests to see how the drink is made.  Cotton candy doesn’t have to be pink either, although sticking with a classic is never a bad thing.  Cotton candy comes in all colors and can match any décor you have. 

It also serves as a fantastic garnish to any plate you serve. Don’t want flowers on your cake?  Separate the tears with cotton candy! Guest favors?  Yes please. Create a custom label for your wedding and place on small bags or boxes of the fluffy stuff.  Any guest would be happy to continue the celebration after the lights have gone out. One of the things I love most about cotton candy is that you never get full from it and always want more. 

Sources:  100 Percent Cottam: Party Details I'm Loving, Stacy K Floral:  Circus Wedding Please , Josh Golman Photography: Adam and Halli's Wedding, Bella Figura:  Antoinette, Vera Wang Fall 2011 Collection: Dress # 3 

Thank you

To all of my friends:
Thank you for always being there for me. For being in my life and providing support, encouragement, understanding, and silliness. You mean the world to me and I'm so lucky and blessed to know each and every one of you.  Always keep your head up and...

Be your best friend, tell the truth, and overuse I love you
Go to work, do your best, don't outsmart your common sense
Never let your prayin knees get lazy
And love like crazy

[and for the men]
Always treat your woman like a lady
Never get too old to call her baby
Never let your prayin knees get lazy
And love like crazy

I love you all dearly,
Renee

It's Raining... It's Pouring

I love thunderstorms and the rain. It always gives one a good reason to nestle up in bed with thick socks and a cup of tea to either read a book or watch a classic movie on TCM. Inspired by cloud shapes, colors and hues I created an inspiration board with deep, rich hues. 

PERSONAL FAVORITE:  Bella Figura 'String Calligraphy' Wedding Invitation
It looks like the wind made it.

The wedding dress below comes from the Vinyard Collection of Priscilla of Boston.  I love the shaw which can be worn throughout the evening or detached. It looks like a set of sweeping cumulus clouds (yes I know my cloud groups).  The other fantastic thing about this dress, which was a great fine, is that it's price is under $2,000.00. 

The bridesmaid gown is from Melissa Sweet.  I attended a wedding back in May that chose the color "storm" and it was stunning.  It's light weight and airy and is completely appropriate to wear again for another formal occasion. 

Who says that inclement/rainy weather has to ruin a wedding. If it's not a torrential down pour why not provide umbrellas to create an awning over your guests and bridal party.  Ian Johnson photography captured endearing photos that make this wedding even more special.

Click the link below to listen- I think any storm/rain pessimist could find some cheer in this song by Real Tuesday Weld 'I Love The Rain'.
...It's raining, it's pouring, but I 'aint complaining 'cause I love the rain...

Sources: Priscilla of Boston Vinyard Collection 'Hunter' Wedding Gown, Melissa Sweet Style MS410 Bridesmaid Gown, Bella Figura: String Calligraphy Wedding Invitation in Black, Tastefully Entertaining midnight reception, Ian Johnson Photography 'Rainy days'

Bliss Doesn't Have to Bankrupt You!

I cam across this great article and video on AOL today about wedding dress shopping and budget!  There are some great tips and instead of having to scroll through an entire article, a quick 3:44 minute video is a nice break during your day. 

That's right! I'm telling you to take a break during your work day and watch a video on gown shopping. Enjoy!

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