Style Me Pretty

Printing Your Own Wedding Invitations

There are so many ways to work within a budget when it comes to wedding invitations...if you are working with a flexible budget, finding a great custom designer or ordering out of a pretty letterpress or engraved album is absolutely worth it. There is just something so luxurious and easy in going about it this way.

With that said, there are great...really, really great ways, to design a beautiful invitation on a budget!

Companies like Paper Source have great invitation kits that allow you to purchase a pretty suite of papers and envelopes, print your own invitations, then assemble the finished project. If you are willing to put in a little leg work, you can save quite a bit of money! And, if you are a bit resourceful, you can save even more by ordering through Waste Not Paper, the wholesale portion of Paper-Source. You will need a wholesale account to do this and you will have to order in bulk, so the best way would be to work with your area store on this.

If you are willing to really get your hands dirty, you should skip the kits all together as a lot of the cost is built into the manufacturing of these pre-made pieces. Places like Paper-Source and Paper-Papers sell gorgeous card stock and envelopes that can be hugely customized into drop dead gorgeous invitations. The curious collection at Paper-Papers is particularly beautiful.

(these are some fun designs that I "whipped" together...forgive the picture quality! The first was actually used for my wedding program. The second is for my sister-in-law's bachelorette party...the cute frame was made by Heidi at Spitfiregirl Design)

Here are some tips if you are printing your own invitations...

*If you aren't an artist or graphic designer, the best way to do add decor elements is by using high-end clip art...Dover makes clip art books that have beautiful Victorian flourishes, pretty vintage icons, florals and branches, the options are endless. They come with a CD that  you can just put right into your computer. You can also use pretty rubber stamps to add a bit of flair.

*Use a program like Adobe Illustrator to create your invitations. Although it might take a little while to figure out, it will ultimately allow you to play around more with the general design. You can download free versions on the Adobe website.

*Choose your fonts carefully. You generally want to use 2 fonts on each invitation...a script and a block. Check out My Fonts or Linotype for a great selection. These will usually cost around $20-$30 to purchase but you can use them on all of your stationery needs.

*Think about the pieces you need...most people generally want an Invitation, a Response Card and perhaps a Reception Card. Make sure you order enough paper for mess-ups as printing each piece can often result in a few wasted pieces. I always order at least 25 extra pieces of each card stock size. To save even more $$, order sheets of larger paper, then cut them down to the right size.

*To really take the invitation suite to the next level...think details. I like to layer my printed card stock on top of a different color so that it appears to have a border around it and it seems thicker and more luxurious. That means that I have to cut about 1/4" off of each side using a basic rotary cutter, then paste the top sheet onto the base using the amazing 3M tape gun. Time consuming, yes. But, the end result seems more unique and definitely more high-end.

*Wrap it up! I also like to wrap each invitation suite (invitation in front with response and reception cards in back)  with a really pretty ribbon. No bows or anything as they usually get crushed in the envelope, just a single wrap secured using my scotch tape gun in the back. You can also use pretty strips of wrapping or scrapbooking paper to do this. My favorite look for an invitation (and perhaps the easiest to achieve) is a simple white card stock, layered on a chocolate or black stock, then wrapped with a gorgeous graphic belly band. Simple & Chic.

Although designing and printing your own invitations can take a serious time commitment and can often be frustrating if you are a novice, if you give yourself room for error and enough time to practice, this is a GREAT way to infuse your invitation with personality and that handmade touch. If it still seems a bit too intense for you, I have some tips on ordering out of an album coming up in a future The Look For Less feature!

Wedding Invitations by Louella Press

We have a few more tips from my friends at Louella Press...

3. Sharing your thoughts: the design process.

Because your invitations will be an exciting preview of what’s to come, they should absolutely tie into the feel and décor of your day. The right invitation design for your beach wedding should inspire guests to pull out their chic sundresses and crisp khakis, without you having to say it (although you’ll probably want to reiterate… Your fiancé’s buddy “Boomer” may not pick up on the invitation nuances). A wedding inspiration board, something like the gorgeous examples Abby posts on SMP, is the perfect first step when sharing what you want with your graphic designer. If you’re not inclined to pull everything together on one board, showing a few favorite pages torn from wedding magazines or ideas found on blogs will also be a great start. Try to also come up with words to describe your wedding; whimsical, elegant, formal, earthy, etc. This will help guide your designer when matching the look of the invite to the overall style of the day.

Also talk to your designer about any specific shapes, sizes, fonts or graphic elements that you love, pointing to examples from her or his portfolio or invitations you’ve seen in the past. If you’re not dead-set on any of the above elements and you’ve found the right designer, your inspiration examples should be enough of a jumping off point for creating a first proof.

4. An insider tip: trust in your designer’s talent.

So you searched high and low for the right designer, you found her and you shared all of your hopes and dreams for your wedding stationery… Now let her run with it! After all, her talent is what ultimately led you to hire her. After many years of experience, we find that our brides are the happiest when they give us guidance, and then let us create an original design. This way we’re free to search out new fonts, try new graphic elements and find the perfect combinations for each stationery set we design. If you commit yourself to an exact layout before your designer has a chance to come up with something unique, your invitation may not reach its fullest potential. In other words, it’s okay to let us work for our custom design fee… That’s what we love to do!

5. Keep in touch!

From here, the process should be easy and fun. You’ll see two or three proof rounds (being sure to carefully proofread each one), give feedback on what you love and don’t love about the design and — voilá! A completely original wedding stationery suite to call your own. Your only remaining tasks will be to send them out, field phone calls from all your family and friends who LOVE the invitation, and make sure to have your wedding photographer take lots and lots of photos! And one more thought; once the big day is over and you have those photos in hand, send a few to your designer. It’s an absolute thrill for us to see how our brides each used the stationery in her own unique way!

Thanks so much to the girls at Louella for sharing these great tips on working with a custom designer! Later today, I am going to offer my tips for creating and printing invitations on your own, ordering out of an album and working within a budget in our Look for Less feature!

 

Wedding Invitations by Louella Press

I am so excited about today's post. My sweet friends at Louella Press have offered to give us their tips for working with a custom invitation designer. Having worked with so many brides, I know how completely daunting the task of choosing and ordering your invitations can be...from working within your budget, to settling on a designer, a printing process, fonts, colors, whew!

So, the girls at Louella are breaking it down for us!

A few tips for working with a custom designer from the ladies (and gentleman) at Two Paperdolls and Louella Press. 

1. Finding “the one.”

By far and away, the most important part of choosing custom designed wedding stationery is finding the right designer to fulfill your vision. Unless you have recommendations from trusted friends who have used a designer they like, the first stop in your search should be the Internet… shocking, we know! You might first search invitation designers whose work caught your eye in wedding magazines and on blogs. Even if they work primarily out of albums, a quick email inquiry will tell you if, like us here at Louella, they also do custom design. 

If you don’t have anyone in particular in mind, sites like SMP’s Little Black Book, The Knot or a good old-fashioned Google search can help you seek out designers in your area. Keep in mind that, though, it’s helpful to meet face-to-face, it’s not out of the question to work with a designer on the opposite coast through phone and email. 

Once you’ve found a few potentials, peruse their websites for examples of past work. Pay attention to the quality of the website itself, as it can be an indication of the type of design and level of professionalism that you can expect. When you’ve narrowed it down to one or two designers or studios whose work you’re most interested in, make the call to set up an initial appointment or design consultation… This appointment should always be free of cost or commitment.

2. Taking the plunge: the initial appointment.

The goal of your initial appointment with a designer is to find out if your vision fits in with her or his design aesthetic, and to get a better idea of the process and costs involved. 

While your invitation will theoretically be a bit different than anything the designer has done before, you will still want to look through their portfolio for themes that parallel your own style. If you’re looking for something modern and simplistic, and you find that their work is mostly ornate with lots of flourish and embellishment, this may not be the designer for you. But don’t hesitate to describe what you’re looking for if you don’t see something that appeals to you right away. The designer may be able to show you something that varies from his or her typical work, or come up with ideas that excite you. 

The initial appointment is also an important time for broaching the “B-word”… Budget! If you have a number in mind, share it with the designer and find out what she or he could do for that cost. If not, ask the designer for an average or starting price, and be sure to find out what that price includes. Keep in mind that the invitation budget does not normally include “day of items” like menus, programs and place cards, though you may want to explore the options for those items as well. Having the whole coordinating suite from invite to program can be a fun and special detail for you and your guests to remember. 

The first meeting is also a good time to find out a few details about the process. How many initial proofs will they show you? How many proof rounds are included in the price, and how much will additional proofs cost? What kind of timing is involved in both the design and production? You’ll want to mail your invitations six to eight weeks ahead of time, so be sure that the designer knows your mail-out date. 

Once you’re satisfied that you’ve found “the one” make your deposit (this normally comes in the form of a design-fee that is credited towards your final balance) and begin preparing any ideas that you’d like to pass along to your designer.

Stay tuned for more tips from the girls at Louella!!

Wedding Details by Luna Bazaar

I hope everyone had a great weekend!

You know, as we post more and more real weddings, it's becoming really clear that those weddings where the details are tended to, really capture the hearts of our readers. Whether your budget is $5,000 or $50,000, guests delight in those perfect details...those thoughtful, and yet approachable, touches that make a wedding completely unique.

So, I'm always on the hunt for sources that sell great accouterments at a reasonable cost. I have a few to share with you today that have so many lovely accessories that will add that magical touch to your big day...

I am kind of obsessed with the wares found at Luna Bazaar...painted paper lanterns, rice paper tea light holders, fans, party lights, vintage votive holders. They have all of your standard party decor items and SO MUCH MORE. I love all of the hand painted items, like that great paper lantern in the top right corner. So chic, so much personality.

Here are some ideas as to how you can incorporate these pretty details...

If you're having an outdoor ceremony, hang five to ten paper lanterns among the trees.You don't even need to have them light up, to get that festive, romantic effect. With each lantern being $9.25, you can make a huge impact for less than $100. Pretty good.

For a Spring or Summer wedding, place a colored, paper fan on each person's seat at your ceremony. When the guests are using them, you add a pop of color to your decor, without having to spend additional money on florals or expensive touches. These paper fans start at $1.25.

Tea light holders, particularly the rice paper varieties, are perfect for large spaces...lining both sides of a path, along a garden wall, clumped together in a variety of colors and sizes on cocktail tables. Again, a completely affordable way to add a splash of color and a great impact.

Fill a vintage tin bucket or a wicker basket with white parasols that you and your girlfriends have hand-painted. I was at a wedding last weekend where the bride had done this using yellow paint (and we aren't talking masterpiece paintings here, just fun, whimsical designs in one cohesive color). The pictures are going to be so completely adorable with guests donning pretty parasols.

For indoor weddings, use the lanterns and candle holders as table decor. They work great clumped in different sizes, placed on the bar or scattered throughout a buffet table. If you buy smaller paper lanterns, they could also be used for actual centerpieces. Use floral decor on 1/2 of the tables, then place a cluster of 3 paper lanterns with a glass contained candle inside, on the other 1/2 of the tables. Super cute.

So now, I'm dying to know...what are your best ideas for adding inexpensive touches to your wedding style??

Do-It-Yourself Projects by Matthew Mead

I absolutely love this palette from Matthew's Summer 2006 website...

all images and information from Matthew Mead Style

These perfect little projects are so simple and yet would each be a lovely touch to your wedding...

To make the tip can wraps, featured in the top left corner, collect a handful of tin cans leftover from soups and sauces. "Cover each tin with paper and personalize with the couples’ names, date, and rick rack."

To make the napkin ties, featured in the top right corner, "purchase candy flowers from a cake decorating store or craft store. Tie 6 inches of silk wired ribbon around a rolled napkin in a bow. Hot glue a candy flower to the center of the ribbon." Absolutely gorgeous on any table setting. Vary the ribbon color and the flower for more versatility.

To make the candy tins, featured in the bottom left corner, start by finding the perfect container to accompany your wedding decor. Papermart has comparable tin containers. Paper Source also has a pretty array of paper boxes that would be perfect and the Container Store sells miniature paint tins that would be absolutely adorable. Fill the tin with your favorite candy, then add a customized label to the top with your new monogram.You can print labels at home using a color printer. If you are design challenged, don't fret over the label. Just use a single letter monogram in a clean, simple font. Voila!

To make the chocolate favors, featured in the bottom right corner, pick out your favorite peanut butter candy (or something similar) from your local candy shop. "Use the computer to print name tags on colored paper. Cut into flags and pierce two holes with an ice pick.... thread on a skewer, and plant in the candy. Place one at each setting."

Do-It-Yourself Projects by Matthew Mead

I spent some time last night looking through all of Matthew Mead's gorgeous websites and I was reminded of some of his absolutely beautiful DIY projects, most of which can be incorporated into just about any wedding...

all photos and instructions from Matthew Mead Style

These shabby chic touches are from Matthew's Summer 2007 site. They are sweet and girly and would be perfect additions to a vintage, chic, backyard wedding. OR, use a different paper to cover or line the items and they can instantly be transformed into a more modern look.

1. To make the cute lunch boxes, featured in the top left corner, find a paper beverage box that you can cover and re-create. Using paper (either your own favorite wrapping paper, or a paper from Matthew's downloads section), wrap the container so that all sides are covered, using double sided tape to attach the paper. Matthew's version includes a soda, a sandwich, an apple, a flower, and silverware. A cloth napkin adds an elegant touch to this literal “lunch-to-go.” These lunch-to-go kits are PERFECT for a day-of treat for your bridesmaids.

*Alternatively, include two bottles of water, some locally inspired candy, a map of the area and some late night snack for your welcome baskets.

2. To make the beautiful Home Plates, featured in the top right corner, choose a small platter (5 1/2 X 7 ). Matthew offers papers that you can download from their site. Add the number using a stencil or rub off numbers from the craft store. Matthew used mod podge (decoupage medium available at the craft store) to adhere the paper to the plate. For outdoor use, weatherproof with urethane.

*Alternatively, use a hodge-podge of different plates as table numbers. You can set them up on each table using a frame stand.

3. Top make the perfect lanterns, featured in the bottom left corner,  use two sheets of paper back-to-back against the outside of the glass. Double-sided tape will hold things in place. Paper all four sides of the lantern, including the door. Hang multiple lanterns over a dining table, spread around a great room, or place strategically on a porch for just the right amount of romantic light.

4. To make these oh-so-cute favor bags, fill wax paper bags with cookies, candy, salt-water taffy, and other yummy summer treats. Use printed paper, cut with a deckled edge to secure the bags. Give to guests at showers, tea parties, weddings, etc. Cut the edges with pinking shears for an heirloom feel or use other shaped scissors for an innovative decorative edged look.

Do-It-Yourself Projects

Before I begin this post, I should apologize to all of you crafty brides out there that are looking for the tips from our How-To contest! We are in the middle of a big site re-design and re-organization where we will have a complete and thorough gallery of DIY projects from our contest, so it's taken me a bit longer than promised to get the details posted.

While we wait for the new site to develop, I wanted to post instructions for some of our most requested Do-It-Yourself projects. Here are a few that would make any wedding more chic...

Coat Check Tags

How to make Coat Check Tags...

I designed the template myself and printed them out at home on Crane's 179 lb. Pearl White Cover (www.crane.com). I trimmed each one out using an x-acto and ruler. Then, using Fiskars 1/8" hole punch I made a hole to place the eyelet. Before adding the eyelet I scored each card so that the ticket could be torn evenly. To do this I used the Fiskars Rotary Paper Trimmer with the Perforating Blade (www.fiskarscrafts.com). Then the 1/8" eyelet t is added by hammering it with a setter (www.impressrubberstamps.com).

Email me for the Coat Check Template, abby at style me pretty dot com!

Place Card Trees

How to make the Placecard Tree...

For the placecards:
I used Stardream metallic cover stock in quartz that I purchased from http://www.paper-papers.com/.  I designed a simple layout on MS Word, and used the font Murray Hill to write each person's name on the placecard.  I then printed them on a Dell Laser printer (printing on Stardream cover stock can be tricky!).  I made them so they would fold over, so we could glue the fringe and ribbon inside without it looking ugly on the back.

I used a bone folder to fold my printed placecards in half, so I could cut two slits in the top folded area, to slip my ribbon through and glued it to the inside of the card.   I used beaded fringe for the dangling crystals, it was easier to work with than individual crystals and you couldn't tell once you glued it inside. It looked like this but I purchased it at Home Fabrics in Downtown Los Angeles. I cut the fringe so it had 5 crystals and then glued it to the inside bottom and then pressed the folded placecard shut to hold the fringe in place. 

For the actual trees:
We bought manzanita branches at a place called Wasabi Green in downtown LA, but I know you can order them online at:
http://www.nettletonhollow.com/manzanita.html

We created some bases out of wood, in a trapezoid shape, which we then covered with the light shantung fabric, adding the fabric was a little hard, we started off by using fabric glue and then also cutting and sewing parts of it, so that the ends would sit taut on the trapezoidal base. We the glued on a 1 1/2 inch brown satin ribbon and the rhinestone buckle. We secured the branches in the tree with expanding foam and anchored them with some heavier rocks, so they wouldn't topple over. We then covered the top of all that mess with some moss so it would look pretty on top.

Luggage Tag Save the Dates

To Make DIY Luggage Tags:

These luggage tags were backed with white linen and tied with gold and pink taffeta ribbon. I used sheets of watercolor paper which had a lovely textured surface and I printed A4 sheets with 9 cards on each, designing the layout in photoshop. I cut each card to a luggage tag shape before spreading a very fine layer of PVA glue on the back, making sure that every inch of the card was covered to avoid getting any air bubbles, then laying them onto sheets of white linen. Once the glue had dried I cut around them, punched a hole in the shaped end using a hole punch then added an eyelet through which I could tie the ribbon. Adding the eyelets was the most difficult part as they require some serious banging with a hammer and I kept hitting my fingers!

Then I popped them in envelopes and sent them off!

All of the materials I used were very basic and available from any arts and crafts shop - watercolour paper, linen (or any fabric you want), ribbon, metal eyelets, PVA glue + glue spreader, scissors and envelopes to fit. The cards were a bit fiddly and time consuming but looked gorgeous when they were finished and have received loads of compliments which made them worth the hours of work!

If you have a favorite how-to project that you would like the info on, just leave me a comment and I will get it up asap! We have had a TON of inquiries on the bridesmaid survival kits...I am still waiting on a few sources for this one, but will get the instructions up just as soon as I get them back from the designer!

Once the new site is launched, we will have tons of the DIY projects up for you to try!

Destination Wedding Tips

Lynda Barness, owner of I Do Wedding Consulting in Philadelphia, has written this great tip sheet on planning a destination wedding...I wanted to share her top tips with you guys because I know that there are quite a few of you planning destination weddings!

From Lynda...

A destination wedding… whether it is in the mountains, on the beach, or just anywhere that is a bit far from home... can be both exciting and challenging. Here are ten tips to make a destination wedding stress-free:

1. Put everything in writing. You will want to make sure that everyone is literally on the same page, and documenting what you are expecting is one way to make sure this happens. This is particularly important if you are dealing with a venue that is in a place where English is not the only language. You want to be sure that your messages have been conveyed and understood. And, if possible, know some rudimentary words if you are in a place with a foreign language. (This really helps!)

2. Check all room reservations and their locations. Does a child have to have a room near a parent’s? Are there adjoining rooms? Will the hotel deliver welcome bags to guests, and is there a charge for this service?

3. Know your guests’ limitations. What about access for those with physical disabilities? Remember that foreign countries may not have the same requirements for ramps and other means of assistance that you may find in the US. Let the venue know of your guests’ needs, in room assignments, transportation, and any other situation.

4. Know exactly where to find a doctor, where the doctor’s office is located, what the hours are, and what the costs and means of payment may be. You do not want to wait until there is a mishap to figure this out. Investigate ahead of time!

5. Carry as much as possible with you if you are traveling by air. You will not want to pay mailing or import costs, for example, on gift bags for hotel guests. Check with the airline ahead of time if you have questions. And this includes traveling with a wedding gown.

6. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want. If you need a golf cart to help you get around at a resort or need help from the hotel staff to assist in decorating tables, just ask. You may be surprised at the willingness of others to assist.

7. Make sure you have a back-up plan for rain. And for everything else! Think about “what if.”

8. Take a moment to think about climate conditions. If you are going to a warm climate, remember that you may also be in (very cold) air conditioning, and plan accordingly. Think about sun screen, bottled water, and a sweater. And if you are going to a cold climate, think about layers. Conditions vary, and you want to be prepared without overloading suitcases.

9. Carry an emergency kit. Have your hotel/resort’s phone number on your speed dial or at least in your address book. Hire a wedding coordinator at home and, if possible, bring that coordinator to the wedding. If possible, bring your own team of wedding consultants, photographers, and videographers. All of these may be available at your hotel/resort, but you will find that the coordination will be smoother if you have your own team in place.

10. Do whatever you can to have a non-stop flight or at least one where you don’t have to change planes, gates, or terminals. It is not fun to miss a connection due to weather (think about the groom’s children ending up in Detroit instead of Cancun) or the airlines (think about sitting on the tarmac in Atlanta because there is no gate available to de-plane, and thus missing the connecting flight home).

And…enjoy!

I would love to hear YOUR tips on planning a destination wedding...no matter how large or small, all ideas are welcome!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding

Two of my absolute favorite DIY entries were the origami branches and the origami bouquets...what innovation! I honestly haven't ever seen a full set of wedding florals done this way, so of course, I was more than intrigued. And lucky for us, the oh-so-talented designer has offered up a few more of her wedding details for us to devour! All DIY...

Can you believe that all of this was handmade? From the ring pillow, to the cupcakes, to the GOWN. All of this was made with two little hands and a lot of imagination. What's makes all of these projects even more unique, is the sense of cohesiveness that they all have. The color palette, the varying textures and styles, the detail in each one...all come together into an absolutely beautiful Do-It-Yourself look!

Many of these projects will be featured in our Do-It-Yourself Wedding Gallery (coming in the next two weeks). Thank you so much, Thryn, for sharing these lovely photos with us!

Believe it or not, we have one last giveaway for the week...check back later this afternoon for details!

Do-It-Yourself Contest!

Well, it's finally time to announce the winner of our insanely successful Do-It-Yourself Wedding Project Contest. First, I should say...HOLY COW. These entries were so incredibly unique and inspiring. I can't believe how many creative people are out there, getting their hands dirty, making their weddings exceptionally their own. Bottom line...job well done.

Okay, I was so blown away by all of these beautiful entries that I have decided to add a couple of last minute prizes. We are going to do an audience favorite (first prize), an audience runner-up (second prize) AND a SMP favorite (first prize).

Our audience runner-up is the oh-so-cute, totally inspiring Place Card Tree!

Our audience winner...drumroll please...Black and White Wedding Details!!

And finally, the SMP favorite...and this was insanely hard because I actually have about five favorites. But, if I have to chose one, it would probably be...the DIY Coat Check Tags!!! It's all in the details!

So what do these lovely ladies win, you ask? Both of our first place winners will win a $100 gift certificate to their favorite online store! Our audience favorite will also win a copy of "DIY Weddings" by Kimberly Bare. Our runner-up will receive a $75 gift certificate to their favorite online store.

What a contest this turned out to be! We are working hard to get all of the details onto the site in a new DIY Gallery, complete with sources and how-to tips. This should be up and running within 2 weeks.

We will be announcing the winner of the 1 Million Mark Giveaway later this afternoon...stay tuned!

DIY Wedding Contest Voting!

I hope everyone had a lovely weekend! Today is voting day! We are going to be voting in the comments section of this post. With that said, I have a few "rules" for voting...first, please only list the number and corresponding project name (ie. #1 - DIY Wedding Cake). The more words that you put in your vote, the harder it is for me to tally everything up. Second, please only vote ONCE. If there are duplicate votes from the same person, I will only count one.

As a reminder, the prize for the winner is a $100 gift certificate to the online store of your choice...plus, the guys over at Chronicle Books have been sweet enough to offer a copy of DIY Weddings, written by the oh-so-talented Kimberly Bare. So nice of them!

Here we go!

1. DIY Wedding Cake

2. DIY Windmill Seating Cards

3. DIY Coasters with Gin and Tonic Recipe

4. DIY Polaroid Save the Dates

5. DIY Monogrammed Wreath

6. DIY Readers Digest Inspired Vintage Guestbooks

7. DIY Silk Boxed Save the Date

8. DIY Fortune Inspired Menus

9. DIY Green & Chocolate Inspired Invitations

10. DIY Bouquet Shadowbox

11. DIY Luggage Tag Save the Dates

12. DIY Polish Inspired Wedding Invitations

13. DIY Dress Form Inspired Seating Cards

14. DIY Vintage Chic Favors

15. DIY Chocolate Favors

16. DIY Pink Wedding Details

17. DIY Journal Placecards

18. DIY Chocolate and Cream Invitations

19. DIY Polaroid Guestbook

20. DIY Pear Favors

21. DIY Floral Cones

22. DIY Cupcakes

23. DIY Toile Runners

24. DIY Coat Check Tags

25. DIY Silk Floral Hair Pins

26. DIY Print Favor Boxes

27. DIY Olive Branch Inspired Invitations

28. DIY Origami Branches

29. DIY Rhinestone Monogram

30. DIY Bridesmaid Survival Kits

31. DIY Kissing Tree

32. DIY Wreath

33. DIY Birch Candle Holders

34. DIY Vintage Pink Inspired Wedding Details

35. DIY Cooking Inspired Wedding Invitations

36. DIY Black and White Wedding Details

37. DIY Origami Pop Quizzes

38. DIY Vinyl CD Favors

39. DIY Keepsake Guestboxes

40. DIY Jeweled Place Card Tree

41. DIY Fortune Cookies

42. DIY Red, Black and White Invitations

43. DIY Cake Toppers

44. DIY Origami Bouquets

45. DIY Brocade Inspired Wedding Invitations

46. DIY Pink Tablescapes

47. DIY Garter

48. DIY Letterpress Invitations

49. DIY Flower Arrangements

50. DIY Wedding Signage

51. DIY Floral Escort Cards

52. DIY Menus

53. DIY Watercolor Invitations

WHEW!! That's it! I cannot express how wonderful I thought these entries were. I love that there are such creative and hands-on brides out there that are truly making their weddings unique. It is inspiring in ways that I can't even articulate. Thank you so much for all of those who entered the contest.

We will close voting this upcoming Saturday, January 5th, so make sure you get your vote in before then!

We will be back on Wednesday, January 2nd with our normal blogging routine....tons of beautiful real weddings, inspiring ideas from the best vendors, inspiration boards and more! Have a safe and happy New Year!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

After a much needed mini-break with my family, I am so excited to feature the last of the DIY Contest entries. If you didn't get yours in on time, or if you sent me your project and it didn't make it up, shoot me an email and I will let you know when our next contest will be. For those of you that sent multiple entries, I picked those that I thought our readers would love the most...we can happily enter your projects that didn't make it on the site in our next contest.

Okay, diving right in....I honestly can't believe that these flowers were all DIY. Absolutely amazing and so professional...

I love these outdoor signs. They are one part vintage, one part charming...altogether a perfect detail in a sweetly sophisticated way...

 

These flower escort cards are just darling. Each one holds a handful of Jordan Almonds giving the guests a sweet treat...

I really believe that if you are having a seated dinner, a printed menu is a must. And, these oh-so-elegant DIY Menus make the perfect first impression for your guests...

And finally, these gorgeous pocketfold invitations were inspired by a watercolor print that the couple just loved. So beautiful!

Thank you SO much to everyone who entered this contest. I know that these projects are near and dear to your heart, and we want you to know that they will provide hours upon hours of inspiration for the rest of us.

We will be voting tomorrow, so spend some time this evening checking out the past entries in the How-To section at the top of the page. For those of you that are just dying for more details and how-to tips for each of these projects, sit tight...we are working on the how-to gallery as we speak!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

Today is the last day of our DIY Wedding Projects Contest! We are going to be posting a handful of projects this morning, then again later this afternoon. I'd love for you to then spend some time over the weekend perusing the previous entries to see which ones are your favorites. All of the entries are listed under the "How-To" category at the top of the blog.

First up today, these brocade inspired invitations are absolutely beautiful....

These tablescapes, which includes the table runners, the table numbers and the menus, are the perfect combination of girly sophistication....

I love this DIY garter, which managed to incorporate something old and something blue (the blue pocket held the bride's something old...a vintage handkerchief from her grandmother and her something borrowed...an antique bracelet from her mom)...

This particular bride and groom was very brave...they designed and letterpressed their own invitations! After taking a letterpress class in Portland, the couple set off to create something that was not only beautiful, it was unique to themselves...

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

We are moving right along with our DIY Wedding Projects Contest! I am in constant awe at the creativity and imagination of the ladies that submitted these ideas...it is completely inspiring! These drop dead gorgeous wedding invitations were created totally custom to reflected the couple's style and the feel of the wedding (which is actually just a few days after New Year’s!)...

I'm not sure that I have seen anything quite this cute in a long time...this DIY Cake Topper was created by the groom, inspired by the couple themselves...the first pictures shows the couple so that you can see the likeness in the cartoon cake topper...

These Origami Bouquets and Boutonnieres are so insanely creative, I am 100% convinced that the bride should be doing this professionally. I wouldn't have thought to extend the origami into the bouquets, but she has pulled it off so beautifully, you don't even miss the real flowers!

More to come later today!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

Continuing on with our Do-It-Yourself Wedding Contest, these place card trees are jaw-droppingly gorgeous. The best part though, is that they are made using really accessible materials and supplies. Too cute for words...

How to make the Placecard Tree...

For the placecards:
I used Stardream metallic cover stock in quartz that I purchased from http://www.paper-papers.com/.  I designed a simple layout on MS Word, and used the font Murray Hill to write each person's name on the placecard.  I then printed them on a Dell Laser printer (printing on Stardream cover stock can be tricky!).  I made them so they would fold over, so we could glue the fringe and ribbon inside without it looking ugly on the back.

I used a bone folder to fold my printed placecards in half, so I could cut two slits in the top folded area, to slip my ribbon through and glued it to the inside of the card.   I used beaded fringe for the dangling crystals, it was easier to work with than individual crystals and you couldn't tell once you glued it inside. It looked like this but I purchased it at Home Fabrics in Downtown Los Angeles. I cut the fringe so it had 5 crystals and then glued it to the inside bottom and then pressed the folded placecard shut to hold the fringe in place. 

For the actual trees:
We bought manzanita branches at a place called Wasabi Green in downtown LA, but I know you can order them online at:
http://www.nettletonhollow.com/manzanita.html

We created some bases out of wood, in a trapezoid shape, which we then covered with the light shantung fabric, adding the fabric was a little hard, we started off by using fabric glue and then also cutting and sewing parts of it, so that the ends would sit taut on the trapezoidal base. We the glued on a 1 1/2 inch brown satin ribbon and the rhinestone buckle. We secured the branches in the tree with expanding foam and anchored them with some heavier rocks, so they wouldn't topple over. We then covered the top of all that mess with some moss so it would look pretty on top.

I have received a fortune or two at weddings, and yet they never fail to make me smile. These custom fortunes are such a cute way to add a little personality and whimsy into your affair...

For those of you that are really anxious to get the complete "how-to" details for the projects that we are featuring, we will be adding a DIY gallery with all of the tips and secret sources, in the next 2 weeks. We will keep you posted on the timing. With that said, we still have more insanely creative DIY projects coming in the next few days!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday! I am still in Christmas mode...a little lazy, a little chubby thanks to all of that amazing holiday grub and just a little dreamy.  I am glad that we are jumping right back into our Do-It-Yourself contest to get the inspiration and motivation flowing!

Our first entry is so creative...Origami Pop Quizzes! The couple used these darling favors at the rehearsal dinner, which featured fun questions and quotes that helped their guests to interact and get to know the couple even more...

The second entry is just brilliant....Custom Vinyl inspired Cds and Sleeves filled with the couple's favorite songs. Reminiscent of the old vinyl records, these Cds celebrated the couple's love of music, while adding a vintage flair to an oh-so-chic event....

These great keepsake boxes were placed next to the guestbook, one decorated with a collage, the other covered in emails that the couple exchanged during their relationship. Guests could write words of wisdom or well wishes, then place them in the box...a forever keepsake for the bride and groom...

More to come later today!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

I love these invitations that were inspired by this oh-so-cute story...

"My husband and I met while living in a housing co-op full of hippie grad students. We were assigned to cook dinner together one night - I made bread and he made some truly impressive crispy fried chicken. I always like to say that he first got my attention with that chicken. Our friends and family know this story and know us today as avid home cooks, so the image on our invitation really made them smile."

These are brilliant ideas for a black and white wedding...each detail adds a bit of charm to an ultra chic palette...

That is all for today! We will pick up where we left off right after the holidays, next Wednesday. Have a wonderful holiday weekend...let these amazing DIY projects inspire you to wrap beautifully, bake deliciously and decorate thoughtfully!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

We are just about to wrap up our Do-It-Yourself Wedding Contest...and yet, I'm just not ready to let it go! I really want to make sure that every entry is given the time and attention that it deserves. So rather, than jamming the blog with tons of entries today, we are going to extend the contest until the end of next week!

We won't be blogging on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, but Wednesday thru Friday will be filled with fun entries to get you thru the rest of your work week. If you have a project that you are dying to share, but missed the deadline, feel free to send them to me by Monday. We can still enter them in the contest.

So, jumping right in...I know that you are going to LOVE these next few entries. First, the DIY Bridesmaid Survival Kits that were mentioned a few weeks ago....

Next, this oh-so-perfect "Kissing Tree."  As an alternative to the clinking of glasses, the guests approach the tree and pluck off a matchbook. The MC then reads aloud what they have to do to have the bride and groom kiss. Things like answering bride and groom trivia, singing a love song with your table and preforming a charade of a "wedding" movie...

This DIY wreath is so incredibly elegant...

I have to say, the birch inspired candle holders are one of my personal favorites...I honestly can't believe that this bride made them by hand, but we have the pictures to prove it. Just goes to show, with a little imagination and a little muscle, you really can create store-worthy details...

And speaking of details, I wanted to enter these final touches as one entry...perfect little accouterments that turned this wedding into a beautiful affair. I love the pink palette paired with the rustic ambiance...

More to come later today!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

I haven't ever seen anything like this next entry...origami branches, used as a colorful touch to an elegant wedding. I can't believe how beautiful they are...

This rhinestone monogram is the perfect way to add a little sparkle to your day...

I honestly can't believe how talented all of you guys are...I feel like we should open a shop together. You would all be millionaires! We will continue on with the brilliant entries tomorrow. Have a great evening!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

Continuing on with our DIY Contest, I am completely smitten with these coat check tags...adding a bit of whimsy and personality into the most unexpected place...

How to make Coat Check Tags...

I designed the template myself and printed them out at home on Crane's 179 lb. Pearl White Cover (www.crane.com). I trimmed each one out using an x-acto and ruler. Then, using Fiskars 1/8" hole punch I made a hole to place the eyelet. Before adding the eyelet I scored each card so that the ticket could be torn evenly. To do this I used the Fiskars Rotary Paper Trimmer with the Perforating Blade (www.fiskarscrafts.com). Then the 1/8" eyelet t is added by hammering it with a setter (www.impressrubberstamps.com).

Email me for the Coat Check Template, abby at style me pretty dot com!

These hair pins are drop dead gorgeous. Romantic, ethereal and subtle...they would be the perfect addition to any gown...

The flower top favor boxes that this reader designed and created look absolutely professional. Based on a modified template she found online, these boxes fold from a single sheet of paper without glue...

And finally, these beautiful olive branch inspired invitations and favors are about as close to perfect as you can get. They are elegant, soft and seem so personal.

Still more entries to come today!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

First of all, I am sorry that I didn't get to post more DIY projects yesterday. I was traveling, and for those of you that have traveled during the holidays, you know what an ordeal it is! By the time we finally got to my parent's house, I was so tired, I just fell into bed.

But, I am completely refreshed and ready to dive right back into our Do-It-Yourself Contest.

The first round of projects were all done by one bride, who clearly has an eye for pretty things and the creative talent to really make it work! These beautiful pear favors prove that a perfect gift is one that is simple and lovely...

These flower cones are such a great way to bring a little color to your ceremony. By using different patterns on the paper, the overall look seems thoughtful but whimsical...

I love the detail on these cupcakes...each one is different, elegantly mismatched...

These table runners and floral arrangements just might be the highlight of the day...the toille fabric and the vintage milk bottles are just perfect...

We have a ton of entries today, so definitely check back periodically...I promise, it's worth it.

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

It's only Wednesday and already we have seen such wonderful creativity in our DIY contest entries. Thank you so much to everyone who sent me their gorgeous work! I know that a lot of you are anxious to get the DIY instructions for some of our projects...not to worry, we will be launching a gallery next week that showcases all of the entries, along with a more detailed understanding of how YOU can incorporate the ideas into your own wedding.

Let's get started! I love, love, love the Journal Placecards that this reader designed...pure beauty (and something that guests will really hold on to)...

And these, gorgeous invitations seem like perfect introduction to an elegant, but oh-so-sweet affair...

The polaroid guestbooks are the best way to incorporate a little personality and fun into an age old tradition...

Stay tuned...more to come!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

More DIY entries to inspire you! The first two, designed by the same person, would make the CUTEST favors...I love the vintage-chic element of these projects.

This oh-so-cute box of chocolate was completely DIY...

These perfect wedding details are just beautiful...they seem to add a personal touch, while still seeming effortless!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

These Luggage Tag Save the Dates are the cutest things I have ever seen...

To Make DIY Luggage Tags:

These luggage tags were backed with white linen and tied with gold and pink taffeta ribbon. I used sheets of watercolor paper which had a lovely textured surface and I printed A4 sheets with 9 cards on each, designing the layout in photoshop. I cut each card to a luggage tag shape before spreading a very fine layer of PVA glue on the back, making sure that every inch of the card was covered to avoid getting any air bubbles, then laying them onto sheets of white linen. Once the glue had dried I cut around them, punched a hole in the shaped end using a hole punch then added an eyelet through which I could tie the ribbon. Adding the eyelets was the most difficult part as they require some serious banging with a hammer and I kept hitting my fingers!

Then I popped them in envelopes and sent them off!

All of the materials I used were very basic and available from any arts and crafts shop - watercolour paper, linen (or any fabric you want), ribbon, metal eyelets, PVA glue + glue spreader, scissors and envelopes to fit. The cards were a bit fiddly and time consuming but looked gorgeous when they were finished and have received loads of compliments which made them worth the hours of work!

A set of absolutely gorgeous, Polish-inspired wedding invitations. The colors are so pretty!

How clever are these dress form place cards, inspired by a vintage clothing display...just goes to show, creativity and inspiration can come from so many different places!

 

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

We are continuing on with our do-it-yourself contest entries today...so I am going to dive right in! I love this first entry...fortune inspired menus! Each flap has a course listed on the outside and the details listed under the flap.  Each place setting had a menu sitting at it on top of a folded napkin...

These gorgeous invitations were designed inspired by the green and chocolate color palette, all using very simple (and inexpensive) products...

This next entry is great, because it is something that every bride struggles with...what to do with your gorgeous bouquet after the festivities are over. Heather solved that problem with this oh-so-perfect shadow box, preserving her bouquet to last...

More to come throughout the day!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

I am in love with this DIY monogrammed wreath...made of grapevine and wire, the wreath will be adorned with fresh flowers and hung with thick, chocolate brown ribbon...

These vintage guestbooks were inspired by the bride's grandmother's collection of antique Reader's Digest books...using vintage and blank pages, they bound this amazing book...add a photobooth and gluesticks, and you have such a great keepsake!

And this gorgeous save the date was done by a reader who is having an intimate 10th Anniversary party...perfectly enclosed in a silk invitation box...

 

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

The next DIY entry was designed by reader, Katherine...coaster table cards, featuring her Dad's famous gin and tonic recipe, inspired by an article she saw in Martha Stewart...

This next one, by Amanda, is the perfect DIY project for someone looking to do a personalized, but affordable save the date...

More to come!

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Projects

I hope everyone had a lovely weekend! I am so excited about this week....we are debuting the best and the most innovative DIY projects. When I initially started the contest, I decided to only post the best of the best, the top five or so favorites. But, I honestly loved so many of them, I really thought you guys would want to see ALL of them.  So that is just what I am going to do!

I am going to write a brief description of what they are, then the full how-to will go into our DIY Gallery, after the contest closes. We will vote this coming weekend.

Starting from the beginning...here is the first entry we receieved, a DIY Wedding Cake that cost less than $200 to make!