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

Roll Tide! Alabama National Champions

Here’s a shout out to all those cheering for Alabama and a big congrats to the team for winning the National Championship this past Monday.  Enjoy!

Photo Source:  Vintage Georgia Wedding, BHLDN Engagement, Mag Rouge Brides, Red and White tablescape, Handmade Backyard Wedding, 'Elopement In a Field' (black pumps and sitting bride), Candy Apples

I Really Can’t, But I Have To, Should I?

I’m going to use myself as an example for this blog.  I’ve spoken before about how being a member of the bridal party or simply being a guest can tighten your wallet.  Because weddings mean so much to the people involved (obviously) it’s easy to feel bad about not being able to participate in every pre-fete that comes up. 

That's where the "I really can't, but I have to, or should I?" question comes up. How do you let your friends and/or hosts know you'll be absent without feeling bad or coming off as insensitive?

Honesty is the best policy.

Of course if I was able to, I’d dote upon every bride-friend I have.  I'd travel here and there to be with them along this fun journey of parties, showers, and celebrations, but realistically, I can’t. I simply can’t afford all of it right now and I’m not ashamed to say it either. 

I have three weddings back to back this Spring.  Two of them require me to travel back to Washington, DC.  What does that mean?  It means I’ve had to re-evaluate where my money is going to be spent. Because I'll  be traveling to attend the weddings, I’ve let my friends know that I’m unable to attend their Bachelorette parties. And guess what? They totally understand.

Some possible responses:

• Thank you so much for inviting me to attend your [event] and for thinking of me.  Unfortunately I won’t be able to make it, but I'm wishing you all the fun in the world! Can’t wait to see you soon!
• I’d love to be able to come to the [event] but won’t be able to make it!  Thank you for the invitation and I’ll see you at the wedding!

BRIDES AND MAIDS OF HONOR

I’ve heard stories where brides AND maids of honor get upset when the people they invite to these shin-digs are unable to come. In fact, they get down right defensive.  But think about the reasons why- a lot of the time it’s because of money.  Money can be a touchy subject for people and they may not want to simply say “I can’t spend that much money right now” or "I can't afford it."

It’s not that you or your wedding isn't important to them, it’s just that they may not be able to afford all of the fun- that includes other weddings they've been invited to in addition to yours.   Simply take the “regrets to inform” decision they have made and tell them you’ll miss them, wish they could be there, but you're so happy they’ll be at the wedding. That’s the point right?

For those who have to break the news, be direct, but be sensitive. Apologize for your absence, but end on a positive note by wishing them the best!  For those receiving the news, be graceful and accept the decision that has been made. It's not a personal jab, just an honest choice.

Cheers!

Photo Source: Courtesy of Universal Pictures

What the Etsy?

To the in-the-know bride who wants vintage props, décor, and other personal touches on her wedding day Etsy is the place to go.  Etsy was created become “your place to buy and sell all things handmade vintage, and supplies."- www.Etsy.com

I’m still in awe of some of the weddings that some of my favorite blog colleagues feature. The attention to detail and the story the couple shares with their guests is illuminated by the objects they choose.  So where does one get these objects? Etsy. 

Looking for a vintage typewriter? No problem. An antique door? No sweat. Streamers, signs, antique lanterns? It’s all there.  The phenomenal part about Etsy is that you can find unique items at extremely affordable prices.  You can also sell items on the site that perhaps can be recycled for another bride. 

Some possible Etsy shoppers:

Photo Sources:  Beatles Wedding at the Smog Shoppe, Clary Pfeiffer Photography, An Outdoor Nashville Wedding, Whimsical Wedding at Terrain

To 2011

This is an exciting post to write because it’s the last one in 2011!   I have a deeper appreciation for New Years and what it means (to me).  It’s a time of reflection and perspective.   Where I was 6 months ago, wasn’t where I was 3 months ago, isn’t where I am today.  And where I am today is a pretty cool place.

2011 was a year of personal growth and change.  I learned a lot about myself and what I am capable of.  As one very famous and well-known actress said, “People are unbelievable.  We have such resilience”. Amen.

2011 kept me humble, focused and determined.  It made me to dig a little deeper, work a little harder,  and for the first time made me feel truly proud. 

You 2011, you little rascal.  I’m ready for 2012 but will remember 2011 for some of my greatest accomplishments to date. So thanks.

Wishing everyone a safe, happy, and prosperous New Year!  See you then!

Renee

Photo Source:  Mark Brooke Photography found at A New Year’s Eve Party for the Two of You

Challenge Me Pink

Yesterday I tweeted (click to follow CharlotteLucey on Twitter!) about a challenge I gave myself… a pink inspiration board. I’m not knocking down pink as a color, but truthfully it’s pain-staking sweet and is overwhelming as the dominate color choice for any wedding.

Pink is best-used as accents in various shades.  This creates what I like to call “the blushing effect”.  You know, kind of like when your cheeks get flushed after someone you fancy pays you a really great compliment and you laugh awkwardly and the corners of your mouth hurt from trying not to smile too much?.. I digress.  The blushing effect is a constant flow of color that is both inviting, warm, and creates the overall effect of “pink".

I wanted to think of pink as more than just a color, but rather as an attitude. It also helped that “Pink” by Aerosmith streamed through my head which is how this lovely thing came  to be. I'm also pleased with the fact it rests just above Stag on the Boards page.

P.S. Another shout out to GreenWeddingShoes!

Photo Sources:  Rebecca Thuss Silk Glossary, Whimsical Love, Sew In Love Tablescape, Ruffled Cakes, Peony Birdcage, Red & White Wine, White Roses, Pink Plaid

They're here! They're here! Bella Figura 2012

I think I might be drooling- Bella Figura unleashed their new 2012 designs.  It's no surprise that Bella Figura has been my go-to for letter press wedding invitations.  I was so excited to hit the "enter" button and find their new inventory right in front of my face.

There is a greater emphasis on color and pattern which will be extremely popular in spring and summer.  Bold hues are everywhere and will make an even greater impact.  I was also very happy to see some more robust and rustic pieces perfect for this winter and next year’s colder months. (BIRCH)

Bella Figura is still offering their 2011 which is classic, whimsical, and unique! But for now… let’s let the newbies have a little spotlight. 

Photo Sources: All Bella Figura.  Birch, Fresh, New Calligraphy, Overlook, Refined Study, Studebaker

Found it! A Perfected Winter Wedding

Hello Monday!  I apologize for taking an extended lapse in my blogging. All things aside, I’m so excited to post some pictures from this amazing winter wedding featured on GreenWeddingShoes.

PERSONAL FAVORITE:  Kezia & Ashton's Wedding

I've been looking for something like this to post about all month and couldn't ask for a better find.  Set against the  Bear Creek Lodge in McCall, Idaho, Benj Haisch captures how Kezia & Ashton created an intimate and warm atmoshpere against a snowy backdrop. Rustic, elegant, and beautiful.  

A canvas requests guests to "add a little something of your own" to take place of a standard guestbook. Bubbles greet the couple as they depart from their fete, and Kezia has the coolest fishtail braid I've ever seen.

Glitter Everywhere

CharlotteLucey will be back and running next Thursday! Have a great weekend and first half of next week.

Cheers!

Sneak Peek! Bella Figura NEW 2012 Invitations

As most of you know Bella Figura is my PERSONAL FAVORITE for wedding invitations.  I was just on their site and they are showing a glimpse of their new 2012 selection- 80 new invitations coming our way. I'm beyond excited- wait! Is that an invitation that looks like a vintage tattoo?!

Amazing. Full of color and whim, with 7 new calligraphy styles being introduced, new styles, and new fonts, 2012 is going to be a great Bella year!

Photo Sources:  Bella Figura

For Monday

This video will make anyone have a good Monday.  I've been asked on occasion "why did you start this blog?". The answer is simple. Because of moments like 4:50.  Admist everything, all she can think of is that she's in her pajamas. Great moment.

I found this video on GreenWeddingShoes.  Meet Jason, a musician who wrote this song to propose to his fiancee Carol.  Jason also enlisted the help of InFocus Cinema to help document.
Congrats!

Stag

A dedicated board to the men of the day. So it goes.

Photo Sources:  Emily & Ians Ojai Wedding, Groom & Men, Join Us In The Woods, Mason Jar Bar, Grooms Party, Barn Wedding Beer, Barn Wedding Prop, Rustic Flowers

Underpinnings

In celebration of the "Sexiest Night On Television" (the annual Victoria's Secret Fashion Show) I decided this would be a great time to post about wedding night attire.  Don't be nervous.

One of the items you will purchase pre-wedding is what you'll be wearing post-wedding that night.  What you wear or don't wear is completely up to you, but its a continuation of the excitement and celebration from the day.

We've seen in the movies women shopping at Saks Fifth Avenue or LaPerla (tres expensive) for their underpinnings, but you don't have to shell out a ton of $$$ if you don't want to.  There are a lot of affordable options that are just as great as boudoir boutiques. 

PERSONAL FAVORITE:  BHLDN Underpinnings

I love the term underpinnings, it's flirty.

For some more affordable options consider shopping outside of the bridal section.  In my opinion you'll find better choices.  You also don't have to wear something white- you've been in it all day!  Have you considered American Apparel?  Yup, left field, came out of nowhere and guess what?  They have some great pieces that are significantly less expensive than a department store or specialty shop- their accessories are affordable too.

Believe it or not your future husband thinks about the wedding night just as much as you do, probably more.  It should be of no surprise that he's most likely hoping that you're going to put something on that he'll immediately want to remove with his teeth. Don't stand there looking like a cupcake with frills.  Be adventurous, but be sophisticated.  Be confidant, be sexy.   It's your wedding night- tea time is over.

Photo Source:  BHLDN Chantilly Romper