Love to Nora Ephron

 At first, you may not know the name.  You certainly know her work.  Nora Ephron is responsible for many of the tear-jerking, best-written, laugh-out-loud, heart-throbbing, hold-your-breath, can’t-get-enough of lines that we've heard in the movies.

Her movies are the reason people have faith and a sense of humor when it comes to love. Her plots are never SO outrageous that we can’t believe them to just be possible.Your best friend may fall in love with you.  The man you despise could win your heart for all the right reasons. You could look up one day and realize "they're the one" all the while faking an orgasm in a diner.   My personal favorite below.

Thank you Nora for an endless stream of laughter that brings such light and warmth to our hearts.

Photo Source:  People

WeddingPaperDiva Production Schedule

Whoop whoop!  The sound effect was needed.  WeddingPaperDivas- another vendor favorite- provides services and stationary that are affordable and creative. 

If you're going at the planning process alone, you're really not.  Check out their schedule of "to do's" or as I like to call it... your production schedule.

8 Months
Create your wedding website (good news… it’s absolutely free!)
Order your save the date
 

6 Months
Send your save the date
Order your wedding invitations with response cards, enclosure cards and thank you cards
 

4 Months
Order thank you cards for your shower
Get your guest list organized and envelopes ready to be addressed
 

2 Months
Mail your invitations (and prepare for the oohs and ahhs)
Order your programs, menus and place cards
 

1 Month
Order your favors or DIY them
 

Post Wedding
Send your thank you cards within two weeks of returning from the honeymoon.

CL personally believes you can give yourself 4 weeks.  You need time to unwind and get back into "normalcy"

Photo Source:  Russel and Hazel

Picture Says More

I came across this photo in GreenWeddingShoes, shot by Max Wanger.  When you can find a photographer that just "gets it"- you're pretty darn lucky.

Photo Source: Cupcakes & Cashmere

It's Henry!

It’s no surprise to anyone that the only Kardashian I can stand is Khloe.  She's a total wack-a-doo, has a huge heart, and in my opinion, is the most sane.

Khloe’s beloved LamLam gave her Henry as a gift to keep her company while he’s away -lets keep our fingers crossed that he will soon join the LA Clippers!  I digress… I love Henry because who would’ve thought that one of the most lovable characters in the whole Kardashian series would be a 6 foot tall, plastic, blow-up giraffe?

SO!  Here’s to Friday, here’s to Henry, and here’s to Khloe Kardashian who always looks fab riding Henry in her kitchen while wearing an Indian headdress.

TGIF folks- have a great weekend!!!

Photo Sources:  Khloe & Henry, Unplug & Get Your Hands Dirty, Orange Wedding, Giraffe Legs, JCrew Edie Calf Hair Wallet, Man Dancing, Bella Figura Ikaty: Antique Gold & Papaya , Coffee & Cream, JCrew Stripe Crystal Stretch Bracelet, JCrew Woven Bangle, Hermes cuff, Hermes gift box, Whiskey Bar, BHLDN Glass Glitter: Gold

Life's A Beach: Beach Wedding

I love big buns, flowing dresses with deep, scoop backs, and a certain amount of carelessness that comes with summer. Shoe’s optional.

The same rules can apply to a beach wedding. 

Photo Sources:  Love+Shipwrecked Bride, Glass bottle tabletop, Hanging fabric, Beach Picnic,  Deep scoop dress, Cascading glass bottles, Our Labor of Love Photography 'Welcome!', Anthropologie Habor Coffee Table, Cherub Girl, JCrew Starfish Ring, Cigar &Bottle Opener favor box

Inking Your Promise

Quick shout out to Ms. Lauren Hodgin (soon to be Mrs. Berkey) for inspiring this post!


A lot of my friends who are getting married right now have told me that they are writing their own vows.  This is nothing new.  What is unique about my inking group is that they sit with their soon-to-be-hubs (husbands *wink) and write their vows together.

Usually when someone says “we’re writing our own vows” it’s assumed that the other person is going to be surprised, but in this case, no.  Writing your own vows as a couple is declaring the foundation and promise you two are making to each other as a couple. 

May be not everyone believes in “for better or worse” or “as long as we both shall live”…. May be you believe in “we work hard, we communicate, we will be honest with one another and trust one another”.  May be some people believe in “as long as we’re both two, cool, blue souls” (anyone read Eat, Pray, Love recently?).

Writing your own vows is no longer looked at as being that totally rebellious, new-age couple.  It’s declaring the guidelines for your relationship and then using your faith, love, and dedication to make it work.

How would you two write your own vows? 

Photo Source: Trendy Bride

A Point of View

Did you know that the word HOBO actually refers to the phrase “homeward bound”?  Neither did I up until a few days ago, but kind of cool.  So I'm a hobo beginning tomorrow for my little sisters graduation from school.  Congratulations Tina!

My posting will be limited this week so in case I don't get the chance to hop on and write... I leave you with some boards that should suffice.  Enjoy!

The inspiration for this board was the marriage of the "Big City" (NYC) and traditional Southern charm and values. The bride I worked with on these pieces had a distinct point of view which made it very easy to create the inspiration boards. 

Weddings are a time to convey emotion and create that kind of intimate setting that doesn't necessarily come with dimmed lighting (although that's always nice!).   Small hints and keepsakes of your individual and married personalities should be present so your guests can feel who you are as a couple and celebrate it. Etsy much?!

Each wedding is its own personality.  Don't be afraid to put yourselves into the day, rather than colors and gimmicks.  Guests aren't there to celebrate gimmicks- they're celebrating the pair of you.  Your union. Your unique personality.  

 Photo Sources: 100 LayerCake, 1991 Jeep Wagoneer, Amsale G560C Bridesmaids, Amy Atlas, Bella Figura hanging table cards, BHLDN Moonlit Peep Toe with Pom pom, Georgetown Cupcake, GreenWeddingShoes, Rustic Bard Wedding decor with chandeliers, SparklersOnline, Tonya Peterson, TwoBirdsBridesmaids

It's OKAY To Say No

 

This can be a doozy. I’ve received my fair share of frantic phone calls asking “how do I say no?”  Confrontation is not fun, no one likes it. It’s awkward and oh-so-present.  We can only shoo it under a rug for so long until it pops its nasty little head out and OMG, it has to be dealt with.  I promise… this won’t hurt a bit.

Mothers of the Groom (and Mothers of the Bride) are a unique species. They’re kind of nuts. Yup, I said it.  I’ve probably mentioned this before, but I referred to my mom as “the dragon” when my sister got married… so believe me when I tell you I’m not shouting from the rooftops without taking a slightly personal jab at my own family. Love you mom!

I digress… You have a set idea and plan in your head for what you want and how you want things to go. Like all plans, there are going to be some detours, questions, pop-ups, and things you’ll have to work around or make plan B’s for.  Depending on how involved your mother in law wants to be is going to determine how many times you’ll have to say “no”.  I fully understand that every situation and mother of the groom (MOG) is different (especially if his family is contributing funds to the wedding)... but we'll save that for another blog.  

I truly believe MOGs come from a good place- they want to contribute and be a part of your special day, but sometimes it can come off as slightly invasive, dramatic, and pushy.  Stay calm and carry on! 

Some ways to say “No" here and there:

I really appreciate your ideas, but we’re going to go with…
That’s a great idea- I think we’re going to…
We’ve already set/ordered/paid for and so we’re selecting…
To make things as easy as possible for everyone…
I like…, but thank you for the suggestion.
Halt, I am Reptar! (Rugrats? Nickelodeon? Anyone, anyone?)

The last one is my favorite... but that's just my sense of humor. If you forecast a ton of input and opinion that you don’t want distracting you, a FAMILY EMAIL OR LUNCH is best prior to the beginning of the planning process to express and communicate how you feel:

“I’m really excited to begin the planning process for our wedding! I want to make sure that the time between now and our walk down the aisle is as stress-free, fun, and pleasant for everyone as possible. I appreciate that people will have an idea or something that they would like to contribute and {name of groom} and I are fully open to hearing everyone’s suggestions, but please keep in mind that we have our own thoughts and plans for the day and want to make it unique and special to us."

Polite, to the point, and respectful.  If you start to fluff or go around the subject for the sake of saving awkwardness, you’re not doing yourself or anyone else any favors. Overall, be kind and positive. Say thank you for any input and ideas you receive, but be direct.  She’s going to love you, her son, and the whole day no matter what!

Photo Source:  "It's OK To Say No"

Signature Cocktail

I get it; it’s been done before, the Bride-Ini or Groom-Driver.  A drink that intertwines the name of the happy couple with a libation served at the cocktail hour or reception. How about a more subtle approach? Some of my favorite ideas keep trendy or fad themes discrete. Kind of like your garter. We know it’s there, but it’s hidden (and for good reasons!)

BHLDN has created a colorful menu of cocktails that incorporate flavor in more ways than one.  What you can find are 5 recipes and descriptions that will surely add to the festivities by clicking HERE.

 In the words of BHLDN:

 “…we turned to some of the top practitioners from America's burgeoning craft-cocktail scene for their take on bespoke wedding cocktails, which run the gamut from understated classics to true marvels of modern mixology. Click through for recipes and tasting notes from our favorite bartenders in New York, Chicago, New Orleans and more.”

Sounds pretty legit to me.

PhotoSources: BHLDN

A Little Neon Never Hurt Anybody

Happy first Monday after the wonderful 4-day week, last week.  Who else agrees that places of business should only operate four days a week from Memorial Day through Labor Day? It’s a little dark and a little drab outside today so this post is perfect to literally ‘brighten’ things up.

Neon is a huge trend that’s being embraced by summer. It’s refreshing to see that people aren’t afraid to use color!  Go get a cupcake and enjoy!

Photo Sources:The CreamEvent, Broach Bouquet, Georgetown Cupcake in Lemon Berry, Sunshine, Bubblegum Pink), Balloon Ribbons, Holi Festival ofColor (Utah), JCrew Patent Leather Skinny Belt in Neon Peach,  FACE Stockholm® nail polish for JCrew , The Cream Event place setting.

Gold On The Ceiling

The Black Keys are undoubtedly one of my favorite bands and ‘Gold on The Ceiling’ finds its way on repeat most days. 

What resulted was my first inspiration board of the summer. Love.

Photo Sources: Bella Figura 'Fugue' letterpress invitation in Silver Shine + Gold Matte, Gold Maxi Sequin Gowns, Goldfrapp, 'I woke up wanting to kiss you', JCrew Bracelets: Track Link bracelet, Classic Pave Link bracelet, Classic Link bracelet, Judith Leiber Butterfly Minaudier, Gold Camera, Gold Skull, Chanel Gold Fingers, JCrew Girls Pearl Bobby Pin, Fashion Institute of Technology with mentor Preston Bailey Chandelier

Back!

Hold the phone. Yes I know it’s been a ridiculously long time- way to go! Often the floodgates open and there’s a plethora of creative juices flowing and information spills out of these fingertips with the greatest of ease. Other times, although information is plentiful, there is a lack of inspiration.

Instead of re-posting articles and summarizing what the majority of you have already probably seen with your own eyes I chose to keep mum on the blog. Then BAM!  Hi June 1st.  Another funky Friday, but this time announcing the re-roll of the CharlotteLucey blog.

I have a few things helping me:

1) The kickoff of summer
2) Fresh perspective on the summer-season
3) Weddings I’ll be attending myself
4) Pandora streaming (The Black Keys and ‘Starships’ channels)
5) Don’t you laugh at that!

The point is there was a while where I had to do some figuring out, some deep sea fishing within myself, and now guess what. Let’s do the damn thing and bring this saucy blog back to life. Mwahs my loves. I’ve missed you!

Renee

Photo Source: Green Wedding Shoes Colorful + Fun Austin Wedding: Lauren + Sam

In a World That Gets Lost in Making Plans…

I had a very interesting conversation with a small group of friends the other day. The topic of the future came up and all that it entails. The subject of relationships undoubtedly made and appearance and once again I heard, “well three of my friends got engaged in the last two weeks and now I’m depressed”. 

This sentence seemed to open a floodgate of:

“Oh my gosh me too!”
“Whenever I get ‘that phone call’ I always think about my relationship”
“It's so depressing"

…. Um why? I sat in silence and continued to listen.

I’m not trying to stir up the controversial pot here, but I can’t ever seem to understand why some people have these reactions to their friends engagement announcements. To say that no one ever compares their relationship or marital status to others' would be a lie. We all do it. However, you should have an underlying security within yourself to know that where you are is exactly where you're supposed to be. Oh, trust and patience!


If you're happy stop comparing it, stop overanalyzing it, and let it be.  When you trust your relationship you don't need to explain it or label it, and you don't judge it. It is what it is. And that's a good thing.

Every relationship is unique. The people are unique, the timing is unique, the circumstances are unique. So instead of having that gut-twisting feeling drop in your belly when you hear, "im engaged!", be happy for your friend. 

Simmer down, chill out, and just hang. Because guess what?  One day you'll be making that phone call and that's something to look forward to.

Now for some cheese.

This Is Love....

This is a commercial that PUMA created for Valentines Day.... we're a month behind, but honestly it's one of the best expressions of love I've ever seen. And if you know soccer players, fans, and fanatics (they're all one in the same) then you know this to be true.

Enjoy!

Generally Speaking...

Hi Folks!

I recently attended a wedding that had an interesting flow. It’s not that it was bad, but either there was too much thought or not enough thought put on the planning process for the course of the event.  It’s your day. How you decide to plan, prepare and celebrate is completely up to you, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your wedding day doesn’t bump into awkward moments for you and your guests.  Here's what happened...

The ceremony started right on time which was great.  Guests stood for the entrance of the bride... and then we stayed that way.  Awkward stares and heads turned because the officiate forgot to tell everyone to sit back down.  How long would we be standing? Should we go ahead and place our rears back down to a comfortable position?  Well luckily within 2 minutes of the ceremony starting, the “I Do’s” were spoken, the vows came shortly thereafter, and in total we only stood for about 7 minutes. My friend said it best.  Short and sweet is great, but it "left a little to be desired". Onto to round 2...

Cocktail hour was good with pulled pork canapés and fried macaroni and cheese balls.  The open bar was a big hit and right at 6:30 PM we made our way into the dining room to find our seats. Luckily we were situated right on the dance floor, so we thought. Onto round 3, and round 3, and round 3...

2 hours passed and no dancing occurred. 2!  The bride and groom made their entrance along with the bridal party- standard.  The bride and groom had their first dance, and typically this is where the band leader or DJ would announce “the couple would like to invite everyone up to the dance floor…” etc. My friend and I waited for it, but nothing.  We decided that after eating a full dinner, after a champagne toast from the best man and maid of honor, and after 2 hours of sitting that it was time to dance. We were nearing 9:00 PM and I had yet to be twirled. 

I agree with this point whole-heartily... YOU SHOULD ALWAYS WAIT until you are invited on to the dance floor. But 2 hours of solitary sitting when Van Morrison, Michael Buble, and Otis Redding were playing and not being taken advantage of, my friend and I decided to be bold and go for it. We stepped on the dance floor and we got some claps and cheers from the crowd. Then all of a sudden my friend jerked his eyebrows and we saw the Bride and her dad walking up to the dance floor. We felt a little sheepish and our 30 seconds of fame fell short, but finally some movement. 

After the bride and her dad finished, the DJ finally announced everyone back to the floor.  Then it happened.  The theme song from the Twilight Saga played. My friend and I decided to sit that one out and we’d wait for the next song. So we did… It was Nelly’s “It’s Getting Hot in Here”. Then it was Ludacris. Then it was 50 Cent… what was happening?  Where were Van and Otis and Chuck Berry, and all of the greats that lead to an amazing dance party? The sentiments my friend and I shared regarding the music was also shared by the rest of the guests as only the bridal party and the bride herself were on the dance floor "cutting a rug".  Hey awkward moment! Over here, over here!  Because of a lack of participation on the dance floor the bridal party  went around to each of the tables and asked guests to get up and dance. Good grief.  

When the alcohol settled in and grandma made her way on to the dance floor (PS Shout out to grandma for being completely awesome) the awkward knee bouncing, hands in the air swaying, "what the hell is this music?" faces came out and the night played on.  Hi awkward moment's brother!  About every 3-4 songs people cleared the dance floor again and again because the music was just bad. Finally some Michael Jackson and other classic goodness made its way out there. But it was a little too late...the bride had her mind on in da’ club music and there was no way around it. As hard as I tried, and believe me I tried, my friend said it best "there was just no way to dance to this music".  He was great and drank the pain of horrid base lines, booty bouncing, drop it low notes away and did his thing.  Major kudos to him. 

SO what’s my point? Take the time to plan your reception make sure there is a flow to the night.  Not only so you have a great time, but your guests do as well and aren’t stuck in their chairs wondering when they can physically move.  Please consider your music choices as well. Leave the rap and urban club hits for later in the evening.  People get awkward when they know music is inappropriate for the occasion.

The Knot has a great flow for a wedding reception I stuck my own descriptions in there, but couldn’t agree more with the “itinerary”:


1. The Cocktail Hour
Take your pictures, rest up, eat some snacks privately with your new spouse. Your guests are using this time to munch of goodies, socialize and take advantage of your bar situation.

2. Newlyweds' Arrival/First Dance
Your band leader or announcer is going to announce the bridal party and then you! You’ll go right into your first dance.  At some point this is a great time for your band leader or DJ to invite everyone up to the dance floor to get everyone moving.  Make sure you have an announcer who knows your program and what you want for your wedding- they’re going to be giving your guests direction. 

3. Cheers & Toasts
After 1 or 2 introductory dances everyone should take their seats.  The parents of the bride will likely give a speech welcoming guests.  At which point the bride and father of the bride will have their dance.  The groom and mother of the bride will join them on the floor shortly after, and then the announcer can also invite guests back to the dance floor.

4. Mangia, Mangia
Time for food!  Your guests are working up an awesome appetite so it’s time for them to be seated and served or help themselves to food. Generally within 15 minutes of settled into food time, the best man and maid of honor are invited to make their speeches.  Once the entrée or main course is served, get those people back onto the dance floor!

5. Party Time
Let loose and be the coolest kid in the cafeteria. 

6. Cake Cutting
Again your band leader/DJ will announce your cake cutting (if you choose to do this).  These is also an opportunity for the bride and groom to say “thank you” to their guests and make a shared small speech of their own.  LET THEM EAT CAKE!

7. Shake a Leg
Continue the dancing!  The removal of the garter belt and throwing of the bouquet will typically take place at some point during the last round of yahooing.

8. Last Dance
Nooooooo!  You’ve been having such a wonderful time!  The DJ or band leader will announce the last dance and you’d better make it a good one!

9. Final Farewell
The last dance has ended.  You’re tired, happy, and just had an amazing party.  Hug and kiss your guests and head out to the after party.

PhotoSources: Danielle & Phil

Happy Valentines Day!

Happy Valentines Day

Photo Source: Tara & Ryker

Keep It Simple: Valentines Hulla-ba-loo!

I don’t know about you, but I feel like Valentines Day has blown up this year.  The radio stations are constantly talking about the “The Valentines Day Countdown”- really? This blogger says keep it simple.

Stay in and order a pizza. Buy some craft beer and your favorite brand of ice cream or gilato. Picnic on the sofa and may be put on your favorite premium TV show. No card necessary.  A small token, a post-it, that’s straight and to the point can read, “I’m glad you’re here.” is all that’s needed.

Photo Sources:  Sparkler Heart, Mason Jar Lights, Ice Cream Sandwiches, JCrew Camp Socks, Flatbread, Spoon Drawer, His & Her sodas, Ice Cream

A Little of This. A Little of That.

Hi folks!

I’d like to apologize for my lack luster blogging this week. I could blame the dark mornings and dense fog for lack of inspiration and an ongoing desire to stay wrapped up like a burrito in my delicious bed (thats right I said delicious), but I won’t. I have though seen some amazing things from my blog-leagues (play on colleagues, get it?) so have decided to throw a random sample of all of the yuminess I’ve come across.

PERSONAL FAVORITE:  Lobster Bake

PS- My new quilt came in and has really made it impossible for me to want to leave my bed in the morning. All things should arrive at your door like this!

West Elm:  Handblocked 'Lola' Quilt. La la la la-Lola.

The best mish-mosh of font, color, and graphics I've ever seen.

'Cotton- The Fabric of Our Lives' just took on a new meaning.

CheckMate

3K wedding with a backdrop like this.

A little obsessed with these two right now.

This is how guests should be served.

Icelandic Glacier Wedding- No big deal.

If you can pull this off, go for it.

Photo Sources:  West Elm Hand Blocked Lola Quilt,   A Brooklyn Wedding, Cotton Field Engagement Shoot, Playful Boho Wedding, 3K Wedding, Johnny & June, Wedding on the Cape, Icelandic Glacier Wedding, JCrew Wedding Collection

Sh*t Brides Say

It was just a matter of time. Perfect!

Pinterest Is Better Than Twitter

Ooooh I’m making quite a statement here. I’d like to invite CharlotteLucey readers to search “Renee Walsh” on Pinterest and follow- you'll find me by my painted feet photo.  Some of the things will look familiar from the blog, but others are other ideas that don’t require several paragraphs of explanation. 

This is the one problem I have with Twitter. It's great for getting tiny bite-sized conversations out of the way, but I don't see much.  In the short amount of time I've been on Pinterest, I've received more follows than the few weeks I’ve been on Twitter. Hmph.Why do I think this?  Well, raw fact and because of two things most of us have called eyeballs.

I’m a visual person. I eat with my eyes, I choose clothes based on colors and patterns, and I use YouTube to learn how to do certain things, such as knitting or how create a fishtail braid. Think I'm kidding, I kid you not.

To make a long story short… FOLLOW CHARLOTTELUCEY ON PINTEREST BY SEARCHING “RENEE WALSH”.  Fun fun.  Any ideas for a new board… I myself need some inspiration.
Cheers!

P.S. I'm still on Twitter and will remain there so CLICK to follow.

PhotoSource: Snippetandink