Another really important part of the equation was the hair and make-up that Jennie Fresa designed. Here’s what Jennie had to say…the makeup features smooth, matte skin with subtly contoured cheeks. Eyes were kept simple with champagne shimmer on the lids, a touch of black eye liner, and two coats of mascara for long, flirty lashes (and we added a few falsies!). Cherry red lips finish the look with a dab of clear gloss to make for a kissable pout. For hair, we paid homage to the beehive, with volume at the roots and a soft, simple twist in the back. We allowed the hair accessory make the statement.

Next up…the AMAZING team of photographers, Justin and Mary Marantz. I don’t really have to say much about this duo as the images speak for themselves. But, what I do want to tell you is just how graceful they were throughout the day. Pitching in when needed, quietly capturing little pieces of perfection for us to enjoy. I cannot say enough about just how talented they are, just how lovely.

And last but SO far from least, the lovely and ridiculously talented Karen Bartolomei, creative force behind Grapevine Invitations. Karen whipped together the adorable little “Life is Sweet” gift tags for our pies and the ridiculously clever name tag + menu combination that we tied to the back of each chair. Super, super cute.  Karen is one of those people that can design perfect details in her sleep…and she actually has a pretty awesome book devoted wholly to this concept! She’s a genius and I’m thrilled to call her a friend.

It was beyond a pleasure to work with all of these talented vendors. And with the beautiful model Lindsey who brought our story to life. We will have lots of fun DIY projects from this photo shoot next week.

Stay tuned to hear all about our next inspiration board weekend challenge coming up in just a bit!

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2009. | Permalink | 11 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: 50’s Inspired, Grapevine Invitations, Hana Floral Design, Inspiration Board, Jennie Fresa, Justin and Mary Marantz, Justin Marantz, Photoshoot, The White Dress By The Shore, True Events, Vintage
Post categories: Wedding Decor, Wedding Details, Wedding Photography, Wedding Planners & Designers

I am so totally and hopelessly smitten with this concept…literally bringing your ideas, your inspiration boards to life…that I am going to dive in head first and make it a regular feature on SMP. My hope is that it will give all of you the tools and confidence to bring your own inspiration boards to life. That it will inspire you to continually hone your inspiration board, using it as the platform to which you convey your style ideas to vendors, friends and family members. I could go on and on and on with pure glee, but instead, I’ll just share a few more gorgeous pics from our latest From Inspiration to Reality!

Sarah True, the event designer behind the day, has stopped by to share a bit of her vision…

Inspired by the bold colors and perfect combination of details, making the board come to life was so much fun.  The design board created the perfect mood for an event, using color to create energy and ice cream, cherries, and the beach to illustrate a feeling of whimsy and nostalgia. Some of my happiest memories are at the beach , eating ice cream and soaking up the Summer.  This is the emotion that this board taps into.  So I thought all of those details were incredibly important at bringing the table to life to create the mood that was designed in the board.  We used bright cherry red latte bowls for the bases of the flowers and a mix of vintage pink cut glasses. We found a polka dot linen from Party Rental to capture the playfulness of the board.  Layering vintage linens from Yumiko’s personal collection over the polka dot linen helped us to blend the details of vintage and modern.

As for the fashions…let me just say that they were INSANE. Beth at The White Dress by the Shore is ridiculously talented and has an eye for super chic, undeniably fabulous pieces. Like that adorable Melissa Sweet dress and the oversized bobbles. Love, love, love. Beth has been sweet enough to share a few more details…

When reviewing the amazing inspiration board that was selected, It evoked a 1950’s feel. The overall look that we were striving for was sweet and playful with a vintage twist. We selected a whimsical gown by Reverie by Melissa Sweet and styled it with 1950’s inspired oversized pearls, dainty white gloves and fabulous red shoes. We finished off the look with a custom made cherry red cage veil and brooch.

So much more to come!!

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2009. | Permalink | 13 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: 50’s Inspired, Grapevine Invitations, Hana Floral Design, Inspiration Board, Jennie Fresa, Justin and Mary Marantz, Justin Marantz, Photoshoot, The White Dress By The Shore, True Events, Vintage
Post categories: The Blog

It’s time to unveil our absolutely incredible photo shoot, all inspired by Bran Coprata’s ridiculously fun inspiration board. Before I get to the photos, I have to say that we had an insanely talented team of vendors working on this shoot with us. Photographers Justin and Mary Marantz, event designer Sarah True of True Events, florist Yumiko of Hana Floral, fashion guru Beth of The White Dress by the Shore, make-up and hair artist Jennie Fresa and invitation expert Karen of Grapevine Invitations helped us put together a shoot that is filled to the brim with gorgeousness, filled to the brim with so many steal-worthy ideas.

all of the images were shot by two of our very favorites…Justin and Mary Marantz

Our shoot was held at the Back Porch Restaurant in Old Saybrook, Connecticut. It’s this great little spot right on the water and served as the perfect backdrop. We wanted to throw a really girly, vintage inspired affair that was affordable and accessible on any budget. For the most part, everything was salvaged or DIY. We used vintage juice glasses for vases that we filled with an effortless collection of garden flowers (more on that later), little ice cream bowls packed tightly with carnations and a collection of mismatched found plates (you can also rent things like this). We used the restaurant’s flatware, homemade pies (baked by your truly), colanders filled with strawberries and old perfume and apothecary jars to accent the table.

all images by Justin and Mary Marantz (who I love, love, LOVE)

The centerpiece of the table was really those AWESOME poms. Aside from being a breeze to put together, they brought that huge pop that we needed. Love, love, love them and will definitely be using these a lot going forward. We accented the table with some ridiculously adorable details…old coke bottles (found at the grocery store), pies that we tied with yarn, and tucked a wooden spoon into, and the most adorable menus/seating cards that Karen at Grapevine did for us that we tied to the back of each chair.

We have lots more coming up from all of our vendors…including info on the ridiculously fabulous dress that our cute model, Lyndsey, was rocking. Stay tuned!

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2009. | Permalink | 26 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: 50's Inspired, Grapevine Invitations, Hana Floral Design, Inspiration Board, Jennie Fresa, Justin and Mary Marantz, Justin Marantz, Photoshoot, The White Dress By The Shore, True Events, Vintage
Post categories: Inspiration Boards, Wedding Decor, Wedding Details, Wedding Photography

One of the couples already had their photographer and will only need help with the florals.  Jamie Collins will be providing photography services for the second, and Little Black Book members, Justin and Mary Marantz have donated their services for the third! How terribly generous of all!

Congratulations to Anna & Matt, Lindsay and Alex, and Caitlin and Mike!!

And a huge thank you to Jessica’s Country Flowers, Justin and Mary Marantz and Jamie Collins for your generosity.

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2009. | Permalink | 4 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Jamie Collins, Jessica's Country Flowers, Justin Marantz, New England
Post categories: Contests, Little Black Book Blog, Wedding Flowers

We asked today’s beautiful bride, Julia to tell us a little bit about their day …

There is so much I could say about our wedding. The days and nights we spent planning it together… The countless hours spent looking at/trying on dresses only to ultimately decide on a jcrew mail order… the family, friends, and vendors who helped out along the way… but when it comes right down to it, I think the one thing that defines the day is that it was perfectly us ~ and that made it perfect.

And the one thing that ALL of Justin & Mary Marantz’ couples agree upon … they have stunning proof that all of their hard work in planning their wedding was well worth it! A few more stunning photographs from Justin & Mary …

A huge collective sigh! Just beautiful!

Thanks to the awesome Marantz’, Sarah McCoy and most especially to Julia & Mike for sharing these great photos with us. And a HUGE congrats to Julia … the beautiful bride … who is now sporting the title “Apprentice” at the Marantz headquarters! Can’t wait to start featuring your work too!

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2009. | Permalink | 9 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Invitations, J. Crew, Justin Marantz, Lighthouse, Sarah McCoy, Sunflowers, Thank You Notes, The Carousel at Lighthouse Point
Post categories: Do-It-Yourself Inspired, Wedding Invitations & Stationery, Wedding Photography, Whimsical

Delish!

Just in case you missed the second post … those are drumsticks (above). Mike is a drummer and Julia secretly had them passed out to their guests at the church. When they were leaving the ceremony, much to Mike’s surprise, they were greeted by the clattering of the drumsticks. Pretty darned cute!

And this is one of my favorite shots from the day!

… more on the way …

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2009. | Permalink | 3 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Centerpieces, Cupcakes, Desserts, Drumsticks, favors, Justin Marantz, The Carousel at Lighthouse Point
Post categories: Casual Elegance, Do-It-Yourself Inspired, Real Weddings, Wedding Photography, Whimsical

Here are a few beautiful wedding dress photos from our Little Black Book Files, past + present + future.

The bride sitting on the floor between all her lovely maids (above) was featured here in a fabulous wedding sent to us by LBB members Lyndsey Hamilton and Christian Oth.

And of course this bride (last photo above) was from featured photographer Kate Triano this week on Style Me Pretty.

The wedding in the second row (above) wasn’t featured on Style Me Pretty … but is a totally beautiful wedding shot at The Foundry in Long Island City NY. You can see more of Diana and Osman’s wedding on LBB photographer, Karen Wise’s blog.

The images of the bride in the first row above (right) and the last row was sent to us by our great friends and LBB members, Bill and Anne of Holland Photo Arts. Tessie & Matt’s wedding had so many special details! To see it, take a look at Abby’s FACEBOOK page, Bill & Anne’s blog … or a really good slideshow from their wedding. Tessie and Matt own a blacksmithing shop in Charleston, West Virginia ~ Wallace Metal Works. They designed and hand-made many items that they used in their own wedding. How cool is that! Here’s a link to their website: Wallace Metal Works. It might just be that perfect design/inspiration springboard that you need!

Photo / LBB Credits (top to bottom; left to right)

Row 1: Corbin Gurkin Photography

Row 2: Lyndsey Hamilton Events, Christian Oth Studio/Jake McBride

Row 3: Melissa Dunstan Photography,  Justin Marantz Photography

Row 4: Kate Triano Photography

Row 5: Jenne Hohn Events, Card Girl, Michelle Walker Photography

Row 6: Genevieve Nisly Photography

Row 7: Kate Triano Photography

Row 8: AK Event Design, Andrea Polito Photography

Row 9: Karen Wise Photography

Row 10: AK Event Design, Andrea Polito Photography

Row 11: Holland Photo Arts

Row 12: Sweet Pea Events

Row 13: Holland Photo Arts

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2009. | Permalink | 17 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Bridal Gowns, Charleston, Christian Oth Studios, Holland Photo Arts, Justin Marantz, Karen Wise Photography, Kate Triano, Long Island City, Lyndsey Hamilton Events, New York, The Foundry, Wallace Metal Works, Wedding Vendors
Post categories: Little Black Book Blog, Wedding Dresses, Wedding Fashion, Wedding Style

Top Row: Justin Marantz, First Class Weddings / Middle Row: Holland Photo Arts / Bottom Row: Bella Rose, Holland Photo Arts

Here are some quick tips…first and foremost, plan your menu based on foods you love. After all, your wedding is a reflection of who you are as a couple and your guests will delight in getting to know you through all of your little details. If you are true foodies, go for something really unique and interesting. If you are a casual couple, think about a fun, whimsical spread like this…

photos by Justin Marantz

In terms of presentation, simplicity is king. Whether you are working with a large buffet spread, a seated dinner or heavy appetizers, stick with clean, simple displays. You can’t go wrong with classic dishes presented artfully on perfect white plates…

Top Two Images: Kristin Vining / Bottom Two Images: Holland Photo Arts

And finally, when it comes to the last course (and some would argue the best course), dessert is a fun way to bring a little bit of personality to your style. You definitely don’t have to stick with a standard wedding cake. If you don’t like wedding cake, skip it! If you LOVE dessert, like we do, offer your guests some fun alternatives along with a wedding cake. The options are endless!

Top Row: Bella Rose / Middle Row: Kristin Vining / Bottom Row: IN Photography

Thank you so much to all of the vendors who worked with us on this feature! And, make sure to check out our Little Black Book caterers (using the quick pick list) for even more menu and presentation ideas!

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2009. | Permalink | 7 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Bella Rose, First Class Weddings, Holland Photo Arts, IN Photography, Justin Marantz, Kristin Vining, Wedding Food
Post categories: Little Black Book Blog

Photography by Denise Krieger

We first featured Hana Floral Design as a member of Style Me Pretty’s Little Black Book this week on Katie and Colin’s over-the-top gorgeous wedding shot by the J&M Marantz team. When we first saw the floral details of their wedding, well, we just had to ask Yumiko to send us more photos from some of her other special events. The bio on her website says she has a flair for the dramatic … and … she’s a classically trained opera singer. Wow!

Photography by Maggie Conley

When we saw this next glam bouquet, we immediately recognized it! Our friend, and fellow Little Black Book member, Karen Wise, photographed this wedding that we’d already admired on HER blog.  Karen sent us some more of Deb and Jack’s wedding with added evidence of Yumiko’s floral artistry. Have you ever seen such elaborate bouquets??

Karen’s weddings are always gorgeous, but this wedding with it’s Jade accents against the lush purple florals, well…it’s simply lovely!

Thanks so much to Yumiko for sharing these unbelievably beautiful samples of your work. We are thrilled to share your creations with all of our design savvy readers!

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2008. | Permalink | 8 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Bouquets, Color Palette Pink, Denise Krieger, Emerald Green, Hana Floral Design and Boutique, Jade, Justin Marantz, Karen Wise, Maggie Conley, Pug
Post categories: Bouquets, Little Black Book Blog, Wedding Decor, Wedding Details, Wedding Flowers

Here is a sneak peak!

The photography was done by the oh-so-talented team at Justin Marantz (seriously one of our favorite photographers who just happens to have one of THE best blogs). To see the entire wedding and hear all of the beautiful details, check out the Little Black Book Blog!

More wedding eye candy is on the way!

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2008. | Permalink | 4 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Justin Marantz, Justin Marantz Photography, Little Black Book Blog
Post categories: Traditional Elegance

Are you a glamour-girl, a modern-day princess? A lover of all-things-vintage or so-so-chic? If your florist truly “gets” who you are, your wedding flowers will tell the rest of the story…no matter the budget, no matter the time of year … be open to ideas and your trusty florist will lead the way.

Here are a few fabulous bouquet shots that were sent to us by our Little Black Book members. Can’t you just tell what each bride is all about??

Floral and Photography Credits (as available) – Row 1-3: Events In Bloom. Houston. Photography by D.Jones. Row 4: (left) The Wild Flower, Dallas; (right) Photography by Justin Marantz, New England. Row 5: (left)Photography by Jennifer Davis, New York; (right)  The Wild Flower. Row 6: (left) Bastian-Skoog, Minneapolis; (right) Michele DeVries, Colorado. Row 7: (left) Karen Wise, New York; (right) Aaron Delesie Photography, Mindy Rice Floral Design, and Lyndsey Hamilton Events, NY, New England, CA. Row 8: The Wild Flower. Row 9: Francoise Weeks, Portland, Photography by Rebeka Johnson. Row 10: Photography by Walters and Walters, Raleigh-Durham.

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2008. | Permalink | 4 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Bastian-Skoog, D.Jones Photography, Events In Bloom, Francoise Weeks, Jennifer Davis, Justin Marantz, Karen Wise, Lyndsey Hamilton Events, Michele DeVries, Mindy Rice, Photography By Walters and Walters, Rebeka Johnson, The Wild Flower
Post categories: Bouquets, Little Black Book Blog, Wedding Flowers, Wedding Photography

I am completely smitten with everything about this look…from the long tables, to the delicate candle holders and opulent pink florals. It’s just so dreamy and romantic!

© Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog, 2008. | Permalink | 7 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Color Palette Pink, Connecticut, Justin Marantz, KD&J Botanica, Pink Week, Roses, Table Settings, Traci Romano Events, Westport
Post categories: Centerpieces, Wedding Details, Wedding Photography