1. Paper goods are the easiest way to add the silhouette to your upcoming day. For a classic take with a slightly modern edge, try these William Arthur invites on for size. Our newest collaboration proves a perfect accompaniment to this style of fête

2. And it doesn’t have to stop at your invitations, with a custom silhouette portrait, you can slap those pretty profiles on just about anything your heart desires. From gift tags, to menus, even place-cards, the possibilities are endless

3. Love is sweet and so are these honey keepsakes for your guests. Finish them off with a customized tag and voila, instant charm. Em Weddings has a great option that won’t break the bank

4. We positively adored the Bride’s English Department frock from this fab affair. It’s the perfect combination of elegance and ease and layers upon layers of pretty tulle is never a bad thing in our book. For a similar look, the J.Crew Arabelle gown is just what the Doctor ordered.

5. Oh Tom’s, how we love thee. And now they offer a range of fun wedding styles perfect for that laid-back Bride who also wants to give back to those in need. Our favorites? These petal colored loves

6. The gorgeous wood chargers at this Florida wedding almost sent us into swoon overdrive. Granted not every venue offers such lovely plating but these Acacia dessert plates are pretty stand-ins and could even be used sparingly. Think one per table with succulents or flowers set atop

7. For that organic feel, a lovely herb sprig at each setting does wonders and smells quite nice too and mixed with potted succulent centerpieces? Organic, green, herbal heaven.

Invitation: William Arthur / Succulents: JM Succulents / Silhouette Portrait: Etsy shop OutOfAlabaster/ Honey Jar: Baby Showers.net / Wedding Dress: J. Crew / Shoes: Tom’s / Wood Plate: Crate and Barrel / Herbs: Hub Pages

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2011. | Permalink | 11 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Apalachicola, Buying Guide, Red Fly Studio
Post categories: Look for Less, Shoes, The Blog, Wedding Decor, Wedding Details, Wedding Dresses, Wedding Fashion

Here are a few cost saving tips that really helped us to stay within our budget…

1. Whenever we could, we borrowed. Milk glass from one person, mercury glass votives from another. We even borrowed pillows from one of Sarah’s clients who was using them for her own upcoming wedding. Our tip for you…ask your vendors, friends and family members to borrow items that will enhance your decor. You can even buy pillow cases at IKEA for $6 and cover old throw pillows that you already have. Think creatively by reusing items!

2. “Gussy Up” simple purchases. Adding wrapping paper to the bases of our lucite trays would have provided a pop of print to our lounge space had we not found the zebra rugs at the very last minute. Spray painting old lanterns in black lacquer, adding fabric yo-yo’s to basic white linens, purchasing a SUPER simple cake then adorning it with a cute cake flower. Even something as simple as stitching a runner to top your table as opposed to renting expensive tablecloths.  These are all little ways to make your wedding seem that much more unique.

3. Create focal areas and put your money there. Let the rest stay simple and clean. Our focal areas for Libby’s wedding were the 4 lounge spaces and the head table. ALL of our money went into these spaces. We kept the dance floor super simple, casually framed only by the food and the bar. The cocktail tables were dressed in a simple linen and flowers from the church were re-used as decor. The head table was the only table that we rented chair covers for, that we printed menus for, that we added tablesettings. It was placed right in the center so guests could ooooh and ahhh and really appreciate that one focal point.

4. Have one big “pop.” Our zebra rugs literally transformed the space. They were $64 each at Urban Outfitters and they did more for the space than many of our more expensive purchases.

5. Use inexpensive flowers in abundance. Granted, we had one chock-a-block full table of peonies. But, our larger arrangements were actually baby’s breath. For $6 a bundle! They were SO gorgeous, so impactful and didn’t make even a dent in our budget.

There were so many more ways that we saved money, from flat out asking for discounts to printing all of the paper goods (with the exception of the invitation and save the date) on our home printer (an Epson R1800) and having Libby’s friend do the calligraphy for free! We infused the day with tons of little DIY projects that didn’t cost much at all but that made the wedding unique to Libby and Patrick. We skipped favors in lieu of donations, we reused the bridesmaids bouquets and the church decor in our reception space. With every decision that we made, we considered our budget and tried to figure out a way to get more for our money.

And you know what…it was SO gorgeous no one would ever be able to tell that we really got creative. It doesn’t matter if you have a $5,000 budget or a $100,000, it’s NEVER a bad thing to look for ways to save money!

So in the name of saving a little mula, we’ve decided to sell many of the products that we purchased for the wedding. Here’s what we have and the prices that we are asking. If you are interested, please email libby.s.burke{at}gmail{dot}com. Please note, everything has been used only once, for Libby and Patrick’s wedding.

4 Urban Outfitter Zebra Rugs – $40 each (original price $64, on sale now for $50)
6 Urban Outfitter Chandeliers with Light Package- $35 each (original price approximately $50 total for light package and chandelier)
2 CB2 Lean on Me pillows – $10 each (original price $19.95)
7 large and 2 small stainless steel cb2 vases: $20 for large and $15 for small (original price $24.95 – $29.95) 
4 Large and 8 Small Z Gallerie Lanterns: $5 for the small and $10 for the large (original price $14.95 and $7.95)

PLUS, for the grand finale…

1 fabulously beautiful Watters wedding dress–tag size 4, but it has been altered to be more like a 2. BUT, the seamstress didn’t cut the fabric at all, so it could be let out to a full size 4 if need be. And it hasn’t been hemmed at all, my shoes were very tall! PRICE: $1600.

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2010. | Permalink | 24 comments | Add to del.icio.us
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Post categories: Budget Beautiful, From Inspiration to Reality, Look for Less, Traditional Elegance

First up, a classic suit.

The classic suit just might be the most lovely, most stress free way to dress your fiance. You can’t go wrong with something that is as timeless as a black, gray or navy suit. Pair it with some nice shoes and a pretty tie and there is no doubt he’ll look gorgeous.

Row 1: This suit, by Tommy Hilfiger at Macy’s is simple and tailored. Pair it with a gorgeous silver and black striped tie, also found at Macy’s and a pair of loafers from Zappos and you have a really gorgeous style. The total for all three pieces is $375.99 and all you have left is a white shirt and a pair of black socks!

Row 2: There is just something about a man in a gray suit that screams sophistication to me. This one, by Kenneth Cole that we found on Overstock (which actually has an awesome collection of namebrand suits at ridiculously low prices) is all gorgeousness. We paired it with a classic tie by Macy’s and shoes by Steve Madden that we found on Zappos. The total look is $309.93.

Row 3: Navy equals handsome in my opinion. My husband wears a navy suit more than his black one because there is just something so yummy about the look. Particularly for a wedding. This one, by Calvin Klein at Macy’s, is perfection and paired with a tie we found at Macy’s and shoes that we discovered at Payless (yup, payless people) is the definition of hotness. The total for all three pieces is $417.19. A little pricier than the first two options but a steal nonetheless.

* * *

Next up, some options for the more the casual groom. There is something really great about a casual groom…the confidence, the effortlessness, the personality tucked into the details. Here are some super budget finds for the more laid back groom.

Row 1: The first look is PERFECT for the beach, the lake, anywhere that laidback chic is a must. A basic pair of khaki pants from Old Navy, a white button down from the Gap and leather flip flops by American Eagle…all super simple, all super hot. You can dress this look up a touch by having the boys tuck in their shirts and put on a great belt. Total cost for this look is $108.50

Row 2: This camel suit from J. Crew is total perfection. It’s casual while still being really special, really fashion forward. Pair it with some Steve Madden Mocs from Macy’s and a simple, old school tie and you have a look that is a little bit vintage, a little bit school teacher. Totally and completely handsome. Total is $356.50

Row 3: Here’s a tip for you ladies. If you are looking for a suit that is off the beaten path…searsucker, madras, linen…check out Haspel. They have been making suits for decades and they have it down to a science. They aren’t the most luxurious suits you’ve ever seen, but they have fun fabrics and really fun prices. This one, a white linen suit is perfect for a day wedding, a garden affair, a beachside celebration. With shoes by Kenneth Cole and a subtle, striped shirt by J. Crew, the look is totally delicious. You can even pair it with some flip flops for a casual affair. The entire looks costs 258.49.

Coming up next, we have our Classic Tuxedo Picks!

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2009. | Permalink | 1 comment | Add to del.icio.us
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Post categories: Look for Less, Round-Ups, Wedding Fashion

Which is exactly what we are going to do with this PERFECT Lisa Vorce wedding.

photos by Megan Sorel

The easiest way to translate this wedding is through your color palette. Using layered shades of pink and orange, then letting natural greenery in your flowers bring in a bright green hue, your palette will have depth, dimension and total style. Bring in elements of rich wood to round out the palette and give it a gorgeous foundation and sophistication.

Next, really look at the details tucked inside this wedding. There are elements of whimsy, elements of charm, elements of total sophistication. Pick 2 or 3 and run with them…

1. Give candy take-aways instead of favors. Oversided lolipops (like these from Hammonds) and other whimsical goodies will leave your guests smiling. Use old wooden boxes (found at flea markets) to hold the candy which will give them even more charm.

2. Instead of giving pashminas or wraps to your female guests, just stack a few blankets near an outdoor seating area. Wrapped in pretty ribbon, this is SUCH a charming touch.

3. Bring a bit of organic style to your look with natural linen napkins, using a simple fold. Tie them with a pretty, rich pink ribbon and tuck a stem inside. Super easy, super beautiful.

4. Parasols can be found at pretty great prices through companies like Luna Bazaar. In a variety of colors, you’ll add even more texture to your wedding decor. Open a few of them up for even more of a pop!

5. Wrap mason jars with satin pink and orange ribbon then fill with one type of stem in a monochromatic hue. Carnations packed in tightly would even look pretty adorable and would save you a pretty penny.

6. Throw pillows. Toss some brightly colorful pillows on seating areas that you either made, or bought inexpensively through places like Target and IKEA. This will add instant warmth and style.

7. Ribbon, ribbon everywhere. You can buy ribbon in bulk from places like JKM Ribbon and Trim and it will go a long way in giving your look some serious pretty.

8. Cut your flower budget by alternating with wire baskets filled with tangerines or oranges. SO striking and guests won’t think that you were skimping.

9. Wire chandeliers are a genius touch and will add so much personality to your look. The great part is that they use candles so there isn’t really a lighting charge. Most of the wire chandeliers on the market are pricey but you could also get the same effect by using wire baskets that you hang from a chain and fill with candles like this one that I spotted over on Sunset. Birdcages spray-painted black would also be gorgeous.

10. Have your maids pick out their own little black dress to compliment your chic but effortless style. They’ll love your for it and will save THEM a lot of mula.

I know that we sometimes feature weddings that are outside of many of your budgets. BUT, it’s really the ideas that are tucked inside of these weddings that makes them special. Ideas and inspirations that can be translated into any affair, on any budget. With just a little bit of editing and creativity (and getting your hands a little dirty) a budget wedding can be JUST as beautiful as a luxury affair.

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2009. | Permalink | 25 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Barker Decor, California Weddings, La Tavola, Lisa Vorce, Megan Sorel, Mindy Rice, Oh How Charming, Santa Barbara
Post categories: Casual Elegance, Look for Less

Here are a few things that you can do to get this perfect look, while keeping your budget in tact. With just a little elbow grease, this style is something that is not only doable…it’s kind of simple!

-Use one type of flower. In this case, hydrangeas, split among a variety of bud vases. By doing this, you’ll create a look of abundance, without an actual abundance.

-Use white sheers to create “rooms.” White sheers go along way in creating a romantic look and ambiance, without breaking the bank. You can even by fabric by the yard, then use an iron-on hem to save a little more $$.

-Japanese lanterns are used for lighting, for decor and for ambiance. Japanese lanterns usually run under $10 and in my opinion, create such a beautiful atmosphere.

-By using white linens and clear/white china…your cost options are really much more plentiful. I would go with a simple white linen, that has a bit of texture and just enough quality to look chic.

A few other cost cutting bonuses that come with a monochromatic wedding…you can buy in bulk. Scour ebay for vases, candles, linens, vintage silverware, etc. Ebay is one of the best sources for wedding decor. You can even think outside the box a bit and buy teacups or mint julep glasses to hold a single flower bud, mason jars or old milk jars to hold candles. Adding a vintage charm to an all white palette is a good thing!

To really create this look…put your money into rented furniture. A few white sofas, coffee tables and ghost chairs will really bring this style home.

Coming up next, a HUGE treat. The amazingly talented Joel Serrato has sent us a film vignette of the day…and it’s beyond incredible.

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2009. | Permalink | 10 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Corridan & Co., Firestone Vineyard, Jose Villa, Look for Less, White, White Wedding
Post categories: California Weddings, Look for Less, Santa Barbara Weddings, Traditional Elegance

We are breaking it all down over on the Style Circle, so to read more about this wedding and how you can achieve it on a budget, click right here!

A GREAT rehearsal dinner coming up next.

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2009. | Permalink | 2 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Look for Less, Malibu
Post categories: Look for Less

image by Karen Wise…a peak into one of next week’s gorgeous real weddings!

*A sneak peak of Peculiar Pair Press’ gorgeous new Save the Date collection, along with a pretty great giveaway! Plus a first look at their new online wedding invitation line.

*We announced the Beau Coup giveaway winners and the hugely popular Sarah Drake giveaway. Congrats to the lucky ladies who stole the show!

*A Rocker Chic Affair that made us all swoon…you can check out the rest of their wedding here and here.

*A Zebra Inspired reception along with a fun Look for Less Feature…you can see the rest of the reception here, here and here.

*Fabulous Photography Tips by Karen Rusten, along with eight other pretty brilliant photographers.

*A Southern Inspired wedding that will make any girl fall in love. You can see each feature here, here, here, here and a look at the gorgeous, letterpress invitations right here.

*The winners of the Four Seasons Films giveaway and their gorgeous Rustic, Chic wedding.

Have a wonderful weekend!

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2008. | Permalink | 2 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Beau-Coup, Four Seasons Films, Karen Rusten, Karen Wise, Letterpress Invitations, Look for Less, Peculiar Pair Press, Sarah Drake, Save The Dates, Souther Inspired Wedding, Zebra
Post categories: Look for Less, Wedding Favors & Gifts, Wedding Invitations & Stationery, Wedding Resources

The best way to really make a statement would be to add a zebra print throw rug. I found the top one at Urban Outfitters for $68. You can also bring in that great zebra print through accent pieces like pillows (found at CB2 for $29.95) and fun pictures frames, also found at Z Gallerie for $26.95.

Next, you need your shots of color…bold, bright orange found in vases like those above from Z Gallerie and great lacquer plates found at CB2 for $3.95. Place single stem leaves in the vases and pile great decorative balls on the orange plates. Finally, layer in a fun green hue to round out the palette.

With this look, there is absolutely no need to go overboard with the accent pieces. Stick with a simple, white backdrop and add pieces in that make a bold statement. The best part is that you can keep everything for your home when all is said and done!

Thanks so much to Caplan Miller Events for inspiring this Look for Less!!

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2008. | Permalink | 4 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Caplan Miller Events, Look for Less, Zebra Print
Post categories: Look for Less