la nuit blanche

Nouveau (Geek Chic): Retro Hipster Browns

2010-05-09T10:25:00.003+08:00

A wedding so dorky cool you could have sworn it was meant for the couple in 500 days of summer.

Nouveau (Personal Boards): Vol. 2 The Dark Side of Det

2010-03-02T10:54:00.004+08:00

Sometimes I don't know if she's an explorer, a stepford housewife or a goth.

I liked it when she was a goth, it was very ooh lala.

Nouveau (Personal Boards): Vol. 1 Mariel & Ramon

2010-03-02T10:31:00.001+08:00

JUST FOR SH*TS AND GIGGLES. or maybe not!

Nouveau (Right at Home): Part Three

2010-02-28T20:38:00.004+08:00

Today's board is the third installment of my little Right at Home series, which features different types of weddings set at home. This particular board was so much fun to make, I did it in a jiffy, so fast that I felt the need to do a few more after to make up for the lack of difficulty. This is a very feminine wedding with very romantic details and a gorgeous Jennifer Behr headpiece.

Nouveau (Right at Home): Part Two

2010-02-23T15:45:00.003+08:00

One of my favorite sweets are candied violet flowers from Paris. I realize that this is also one of my favorite colors to look at because it's still pretty and feminine but it's soothing and not too girly girl. I decided to make this color part of the series because of the awesome Mast brother's chocolate packaging.

Nouveau (Right at Home): Part One

2010-02-22T17:40:00.003+08:00

I've been trying to make some more modern boards, but everything I seem to do feels very homey to me so I decided to post a three-part series of boards that feature at-home weddings. It doesn't mean that your wedding has to be boring, for goodness sake, don't spare anything simply because the address on the invite is the same as the one for the rsvp! Here is the first in the series, which features a delicate but fun spring palette for a brunch wedding.

Color Scheme: Valentine Florals and Glossy Porcelain Pastels

2010-02-14T10:54:00.000+08:00

Nouveau (Renaissance): Living Art in Turquoise and Gold

2010-02-11T10:23:00.002+08:00

When I came across this particular bridal shoot for Brides I literally wiggled in my chair. I love the way this screams Elizabeth: The Golden Age! The pale yet interesting skin, the crimped hair, the intricate details - it can be modern depending on how much of the original look you adapt. Also I feel that it mixing in Pantone's color of the year (Turquoise!) gives it an edge that I guarantee no brides have yet to incorporate!

Color Scheme: The Unforgettable Classics (the palette that even your mother can't criticize)

2010-01-22T18:31:00.002+08:00

Color Scheme: Laidback Seaside in Neutral Shades of Dove, Eggshell and Periwinkle

2010-01-15T17:56:00.001+08:00

Nouveau (Weekend Affair): Bring life to the Country House with Emerald and Coral!

2010-01-12T10:10:00.005+08:00

The idea of a three day wedding is always a really GOOD idea, but rarely does it leave the bride with much breathing room or sanity by the time it comes down to the week of. If you can afford a planner and not to mention the budget of such an event, then by all means I would say go for it. It's always ten times more memorable when you get married out of town, simply because the little activities that you plan for when the whole gang gets there is always going to make lasting impressions. I love day-after brunches, little hampers in the rooms, little maps and suggestions for touring the area. I came across this picture of an old Jag and I thought how cool would this look in a board for a really elegant but FRESH out of town wedding? I tried to update the traditional look of things by putting in a surprise touch of coral to the palette of gardenia white and emerald green. Definitely a good way to start the new year!

Color Scheme: Tea stained florals for Early Spring! Hooray for the 100th post!

2010-01-12T08:02:00.005+08:00

Nouveau (Splendiferous Spring!): Bold wildflower colors and rustic details!

2009-12-23T11:42:00.004+08:00

Now that December is wrapping up, it doesn't hurt to dream about wild colors and creative themes! I love the show ribbons, for me they're the best peg on the board. The green color and floral print on the bridesmaid's dresses are really simple and pretty. J.Crew is turning out to be such a go-to shop for weddings these days, and the simplicity of the things that they produce are awesome canvases for accessories.

Nouveau (Confection Perfection): Very Classic, feminine pastels

2009-12-23T11:31:00.002+08:00

I remember making a pastel board recently, not sure if it was the one based in Provence or something else, but this is different. Whenever I look at Brides.com I'm always so surprised at how pinks and yellows play such pivotal roles in modern day weddings. I always thought pastels were outdated, but then I see jpegs like these and I rethink the whole idea. Pink can be sexy, sophisticated and preppy all at once without looking like a kiddie party. This board was fun to make because it really allowed me to dig through all the pastel pegs I have on file and make a girly moment out of it.

Nouveau (Gilded): All that Glitters is Gold

2009-12-22T09:26:00.003+08:00

One of my favorite jpegs from my "Dresses" folder is this one of a bride and her groom traipsing down a cobblestone street. I love her dress, and I really REALLY love his suit. I actually think this is one of the most close-to-home pictures that I've got. Since it's the holidays I've been trying to avoid putting up too many Christmassy boards, but it's all subjective to a holiday bride anyway - particularly because I live in a tropical country where anything goes really. I do like the idea of a gold wedding, and this one is for my Nimrat who LOVES gold. Nim, this reminds me of your prom dress hehe.

Color Scheme: Chicly Modern Christmas in Dove grey, Poinsettia red, Powder blue and Champagne details

2009-12-21T19:02:00.001+08:00

Nouveau (Debutante Style): Dark side of the Peach Hen Party!

2009-12-19T15:37:00.004+08:00

Normally people associate peach with prom or some totally subdued debutante dress, but this hen party board is a lot sexier and much more sophisticated. Black details create a more dramatic background to this "innocent" color making it a little more flirty looking.

Nouveau (Hen Party): Princess and the Pea Sleepover!

2009-12-17T15:01:00.003+08:00

How awesome would this be for a bachelorette party? All your girlfriends lounging around on thick stacks of mattresses just like Anthropologie's summer '07 store set up. What completes this for me are the Fauchon/Laduree desserts to make it all super indulgent like Marie Antoinette's little party.

Destination: Forests and Wine! A woodsy wedding celebration!

2009-12-17T14:57:00.003+08:00

Another rustic wedding, with color cues taken from old wine bottles and earthy soil. I love this delicate but sexy lace dress, and although it contrasts with the rest of the look it goes perfectly with the outdoorsy feel.

Color Scheme/Garden Series: A refreshingly minty Garden picnic

2009-12-17T14:54:00.002+08:00

Color Scheme: Something Blue and Bohemian

2009-12-15T15:18:00.000+08:00

Nouveau (Burgundy and Saints): An opulent take on a traditional wedding style

2009-12-12T17:58:00.003+08:00

I was really inspired by this picture of Gisele... Whenever I think of elegant balls or weddings of the Golden Age, I envision velvets and tons of burgundy. I tried to jazz it up with paintings and details like saints to put a traditional Catholic edge to the board.

Color Scheme: Christmas at Home in Neutrals with accents of Evergreen

2009-12-10T15:50:00.002+08:00

Nouveau (Dark Twenties): Flapper Glamour

2009-12-07T13:29:00.002+08:00

A popular theme in the wedding circuit these days: vintage by the decades! When Hairspray came out as a movie, a lot of people wanted bubblegum pink and pastel cupcakes with bridesmaids in a-line skirts and super teased ponytails and when the Notebook came out, Pearl Harbor red lips and draped silk dresses were very trendy. The flapper look was everywhere this year, with the fringed dresses and beaded bags (not to mention those funky hairpieces!) so I decided to go for it with this board... without being so exaggerated or so cliche. Hopefully!

Nouveau (Shabby Chic): At the beach!

2009-12-07T11:26:00.002+08:00

Something to think about as the weather gets colder! A shabby chic wedding at the beach? Far from your ordinary garden affair, but really pretty nonetheless.

Nouveau (Modern Drama): Black tie done in a festive, modern way

2009-11-25T11:38:00.002+08:00

I think majority of black tie weddings have a lot of timelessness to them in the sense that they always include the vintage car and the elegant guestbook sans the gaudy garter toss... but I didn't want to make another simple black tie board. This would probably be for a sophisticated couple, but also, a sophisticated YOUNG couple.

Style Circle Post No.2: Retro Sweet

2009-11-24T11:39:00.001+08:00

Another SMP board recently made, I was feeling really vintagey... but not in a shabby chic way.

Credits: On Paper, ON PAPER (2), C Studios, Jose Villa, Jose Villa Photography (2), Jose Villa, Flowergirls, Weddings and the City, Olivia Leigh

Style Circle Post No. 1 : There's No Place Like Home

2009-11-24T11:20:00.002+08:00

I've made a few boards through SMP, but haven't thought of posting them up here till now...

Credits: Corbin Gurkin, Corbin Gurkin Photography, Belathee Photography, Jessamyn Harris, Lisa Lefkowitz (2), delphine

Color Scheme: A Hitchcock Blonde Occasion

2009-11-23T12:30:00.002+08:00

Color Scheme: Loud and Sexy Tropics: Haughty Turquoise, Papaya and Dragonfruit Pink

2009-11-23T12:26:00.001+08:00

Color Scheme: Butterflies and Pastels in Provence

2009-11-12T15:29:00.002+08:00

Color Scheme: Fig and Golden Peach! Sunlit darkness and couture florals!

2009-11-12T13:33:00.001+08:00

Color Scheme: Dusty Golds and Shades of Brillant Green

2009-11-05T17:00:00.001+08:00

Nouveau (Antique Sepia): Handmade Lace and a Stopped Watch

2009-11-03T16:30:00.003+08:00

Since fall really is the season for the most opulent colors, I felt the need to express my love for more velvety browns. I like shabby chic weddings just fine, but when dramatic sepia and tobacco brown is added into the mix I LOVE them. This is just a little board of all the ways to make your wedding elegant and chic without bordering on stuffy.

Nouveau (Fuschia Spring): A not so dainty springtime wedding!

2009-10-27T07:52:00.004+08:00

So maybe you're not the type to indulge in pastels or lacy ribbons and little girls in chiffon - it's ok! I made this board for the springtime brides who aren't wallflowers by any means! The colors were inspired by the very cheeky Nars blush in Orgasm.

Nouveau (Speck of Gold): Of the Palest Creams and Luminous Metals

2009-10-26T15:18:00.003+08:00

There's nothing prettier than a consistent color theme that is striking yet very simple. Most of the time we get carried away with the grandeur of weddings, we forget that the details are the most stunning part of the whole thing.

Nouveau (Farmstyle): Meet me under the Kissing Tree

2009-10-23T11:09:00.002+08:00

Every board I've made for the past few days has green and brown tones in it. I'm thinking that fall has gotten to me, even though I can't say that we get to experience it in the tropics, it's what I miss most about living in Paris (it was my favorite season)... but I don't think you should rule out the rich colors for any kind of event, no matter where you live.

Color Scheme: Tiramisu and Marigold at the Intimate Reception

2009-10-22T18:14:00.001+08:00

Nouveau (Cinderelly, Cinderelly): Powdery Blue, Gold and some pretty Pears

2009-10-21T17:55:00.003+08:00

I had a really good time making this board. Cinderella wasn't by any means my favorite Disney princess, but she came to mind when I was looking at all these pegs that were the same color as her dress. I like the idea of someone using their favorite childhood movies and books as inspiration, like the Where the Wild things Are board I made almost a year ago. It makes the event all the more fun, especially birthday parties - people can actually come in costume! I hope I can come up with something interesting from another childhood favorite soon...

Nouveau (Black, White and Cali all over): Etsy crafts, Artsy Photos and the Californian Yellow Poppy!

2009-10-21T12:04:00.003+08:00

I know my boyfriend will be aghast at this post, as he is from SF and totally patriotic to NorCal. He hates black and white as a color combination and probably thinks my use of his favorite place on earth does not do it justice, but I saw a lot of funky places when I was there and thought it would be perfect for young artists who want to get hitched without any of the willy nilly frilly junk.

Nouveau (Girly!): Inkblots and Luminous Pinks

2009-10-21T11:08:00.003+08:00

Like I've said before, I'm not a fan of pink weddings - but sometimes you can make it look SO good without compromising the fact that it's an adult affair. This vintage-esque feminine board really speaks to me because it has splotches of inky indigo in the details, giving an edge to something that would otherwise be all about frills.

Color Scheme: Colonial Marquez and Mystical Allende in Browns and Greens

2009-10-20T14:05:00.001+08:00

Color Scheme: Hot Morocco! Turquoise, Fuschia and Brick Red!

2009-10-14T16:55:00.002+08:00

Nouveau (Safari Luxe): Silk Tents, Outdoor lanterns, Luxurious Fabrics and Africa!

2009-10-13T17:42:00.002+08:00

How cool would this be? I mean, this would be the ultimate fantasy wedding for me. Of course, this would probably cost my life savings and a kidney on the black market, but take a look at this board. You'll think it's worth it. It's a very glamorous safari wedding complete with white silk, lanterns and the most incredible views of wildlife. Really a wedding to strive for.

Nouveau (Stepford): Perfection in its sweetest form with Carnation pink, Pistachio green and Buttery gold

2009-10-12T17:37:00.004+08:00

Most people assume pink is as feminine a color as it gets, and they'd be right! I just love looking at pink. Especially pink desserts - what is more perfect than a sateen box of candied Jordan almonds and a Ron Ben Israel cake?! But for some reason I just can't find it in myself to wear pink, use pink make up or decorate with pink... Yet here I am making a board fit for a Stepford wife in all her favorite shades.

Nouveau (This is Halloween): The only scary thing about this might be the price tag!

2009-10-08T16:35:00.003+08:00

I couldn't resist, but I decided to put it up earlier than the 31st because I didn't want to be cheesy like that. It's a glamorous fall wedding that so happens to fall into the Halloween month, with just little hints in the cake (check out the marzipan pumpkin). It's still a wedding, so it shouldn't be too kitschy but I think it should have elements of noir in it.

Nouveau (Brights): Supercolor Fragilistic Expealidocious!

2009-10-07T07:37:00.000+08:00

Now that I know more than a handful of people are reading this blog I had to incorporate some color................. and I really dig this Martha Stewart cake, even if that cover has spawned hundreds of knock offs at local bakeries. If you're going with the bright colors for a wedding, might as well go all out!

Color Scheme: Vive les Parisiennes! Rouge, Vinyl Black and Showy Gold

2009-10-06T11:22:00.002+08:00

Announcement: I've now joined Style Circle on Style Me Pretty!

2009-10-03T08:30:00.002+08:00

http://circle.stylemepretty.com/stephanie05/

All the boards I posted there are new as well.

Nouveau (Gatsby at Night): Marichris & Carlos Board No. 1

2009-09-28T14:00:00.002+08:00

Just for you! The first of three different ones. Hope you get at least an idea or two for your scrapbook!

Color Scheme: Sorbetes! Dahlias, Hummingbirds and Neon pastels

2009-09-22T11:33:00.001+08:00

Color Scheme: Sandy dunes, Sunset flowers and Sunscreen sachets

2009-09-20T07:24:00.001+08:00

Nouveau (Bohemian): Headdresses & Art Deco details

2009-09-09T10:58:00.004+08:00

Ok so I was more than inspired by the board I posted a couple days ago with the Morgan Le Fae theme but I like this board so much better because it's really detailed... I can't believe there's someone in LA who makes these really awesome fairy costumes for parties and weddings. I guess some people out there are more adventurous, and I think it's great even if I wouldn't do it myself...

Color Scheme: Jade, Coral Peony and Old Gold

2009-09-09T10:03:00.001+08:00

Color Scheme: Cream, Glass, Taupe and Silver

2009-09-07T07:14:00.001+08:00

Garden Series: Wintry Woods and Morgan le Fae

2009-09-04T08:04:00.002+08:00

Don't ever assume that glamorous weddings are only at night. When I saw this picture of this girl in an AMAZING coat standing like the Snow Queen on a rickety boat I immediately wanted to make a rustic board that sort of touched on the fairy theme. I picked a generally simple palette, but the details and the surrounding greenery are enough to make the entire thing really stunning. I'd love to attend this wedding!

Nouveau (Eco Minimalism): Glass touches, Stark White and Crisp Greens

2009-09-03T09:46:00.005+08:00

I know I've made A LOT of white and green palettes, but I keep coming up with new ways to present them so I don't think I'll ever tire of putting them together. I think this is my favorite palette of colors because it's so clean and fresh without being dull because of all the details - wicker, weathered wood, glass and preppy flowers like gardenias and hydrangeas (my favorites along with bowl of cream peonies). This was inspired by a picture of a pitcher of milk (lotion) in minimalist packaging that i found while googling. I thought it would be a lovely giveaway to have if it were real fresh milk packaged with homemade cookies. Mmm. Anyway, this would be a great classic wedding that isn't too stuffy.

Color Scheme: Dark Chocolate, Goldleaf, Cream and Noir

2009-09-03T09:08:00.001+08:00

Garden Series: Rusticana

2009-08-29T13:37:00.003+08:00

A good rustic board is hard to make. There are so many themes and motifs you could use, and the little details are endless. It's easy to lose sight of what goes where when planning a wedding set around a lot of green or in the mountains. You get carried away by the thought of eco friendly paper lanterns or candied fruits and preserves... well at least I do. I think I had a mild case of ADHD while making this. But finally after three days, I have something to show for it.

Nouveau (Pastels): Understated and Easy

2009-08-29T13:28:00.004+08:00

I don't know. I like pink. It's one of those colors that just catch my attention, especially in edible things like cupcakes or candy. But for the life of me I couldn't picture anyone turning pastels into something chic for a big event. I always thought they were corny colors, a little on the tacky side. Well I came up with a board that had doses of that palette in it, but so subtly done and in off the radar shades like pale peony, grey blue and buttercream. It's a really doable look without compromising the fact that it's a celebration for people above the toddler years.

Nouveau (Hepburn): Champagne wishes, Caviar dreams, Chanel haute couture!

2009-08-22T11:28:00.002+08:00

I enjoyed making this board because even though I keep daydreaming about something ten times simpler for myself I would kill to have a really glamorous wedding. I won't pretend that a hundred phaelenopsis stems and tons of bottles of Dom don't give me the wedding willies. It literally screams L'officiel and Chanel No.5! But I did get a really good idea with that peg of the LBD. What a great back!

Nouveau (Afternoon): Lazy Sundays & Francophile Buffets

2009-08-21T10:07:00.000+08:00

I'm a huge fan of those subtle weddings that have really big impacts on their guests... like I'm pretty sure paper lanterns are more impressive at night than chandeliers at a hotel. This board is a testament to those casually chic affairs that do well at spring or summer in someone's massive backyard.

Reel to Real: Iconic Hitchcock

2009-08-18T22:24:00.002+08:00

I suppose it speaks for itself? I'm really proud of this board, it's very "fashion" compared to the others... I think I had to be in a certain mood to produce this, but I think I can go in this direction once in awhile!

Nouveau (Mod): Warholic & Fun

2009-08-16T07:29:00.000+08:00

Like I've said before, I'm not into too much color... I barely wear things other than black, but when it comes to making boards anything goes. When I found this picture of a table setting with colored manzanita branches and little yellow birds I knew I had to make something with it right away... and it dawned on me that I never made a mod themed board. I went a little crazy with the tic tacs and the mini coop, but it was fun!

Color Scheme: Nantucket Summer Night in Lavender, Cream, Dove gray and Coal

2009-08-14T07:57:00.007+08:00

If you've never been to Nantucket, I seriously suggest that you go there at some point in your life. It's quiet and stunning all at once, probably because it's so rustic and charming with all these surprise nooks and crannies and interesting little shops. I much prefer getaways like this compared to places like Miami or Cancun - definitely not restful and too noisy. I've been to a great 4th of July weekend wedding, and I think that it would be really beautiful and refreshing in a classic way. This sort of wedding needs at least three days to soak in... really awesome.

Color Scheme: Cream, Periwinkle & Champagne

2009-08-14T07:50:00.001+08:00

Nouveau (Homespun): Comfortable textures & a clean palette

2009-08-10T07:40:00.004+08:00

The idea of getting married in a house, or even having a reception at home doesn't appeal to me because... my house looks like an art gallery - too modern and stoic to look breezy and romantic. But if I had my own place, which hopefully would have nice french doors and floor to ceiling windows - maybe I'd reconsider. I actually made this board after someone close to us got "prank" engaged this weekend. Even if it isn't the real thing, I thought this would suit them pretty nicely! You've got all the soft fabrics, wicker and wood, clean palette of soft greens, whites etc. This is a wedding I would love to go to! ;)

Nouveau (Mad Hatter's Tea Party): The chicest storybook theme come to life

2009-08-09T07:18:00.004+08:00

I have to admit I have thought of this theme so many times while making boards, but I just couldn't seem to make a commitment to it whenever I started it. This is probably one of the most common fairytale themes in the book, what with the new movie adaptation coming out next year and all. Fortunately one day I heard Go ask Alice(Jefferson Airplane) in the car and it got stuck in my head so when I got home I had no choice but to finish what I started months ago. A mad hatter's party - without being too crazy or kitschy - I've seen pictures of these parties that are too cartoonish and not elegant at all. I had a lot of fun looking for pegs, and I think I got a winner with this board.

Destination: When you've got the Hamptons as a backyard...

2009-08-01T06:45:00.005+08:00

Summer is winding down, but the weather could not be better for a breezy late afternoon wedding in some classic beach house. The tropics are a whole other sort of affair altogether (more color), but I felt inspired after seeing pictures of Bastille Day and the Fourth so I decided to come up with a board that had a Hamptons/Nantucket feel. Personally I love this one!

Garden Series: Tuscan Herb Garden

2009-07-15T10:51:00.006+08:00

When I was looking things up for my cousin's wedding I came across this one shoot from Brides magazine that featured a Marketplace theme, and I thought that was really cool for guests to just pick and choose their giveaways (baguettes, jams, flowers) from a gorgeously presented market table. It inspired a whole board with lush greenery and fresh food like cold Spanish gazpacho and some really light white wine. Just looking at this board makes me feel like I'm in Tuscany or Provence, with the only non rustic thing being the really awesome cake with cameo chocolates!

Nouveau (Eclectic): Ming China and Orangina

2009-07-04T22:37:00.000+08:00

I don't know what to say about this board because it just came up out of nowhere for me while googling ming style vases. I think this is like nouveau eccentric because of all the colors and artistic flim flam. My personal touch is in the Orangina, love that stuff.

Destination: City of Lights for gardenias and double shot espressos

2009-06-24T10:57:00.003+08:00

After watching the season finale of Gossip Girl a few weeks ago, hope burned in my heart for my favorite couple Blair and Chuck. I know that they won't last, they never do, but I feel that maybe after a few scandals, more deaths and pregnancies or what have you - there should be some sort of union between these two. I love them, they're my guilty pleasure, and I have to admit that even while chuck is a kid billionaire they would still have a sexy elopement in Paris before a big affair in New York. While I've made a Parisian elopement board before, I never made one quite like this with people from a tv show in mind! I'm almost embarrassed to admit that I would kill for them to do their wedding this way on tv. Maybe the producers will take a hint if they ever get wind of this (which is highly doubtful). Anyway, I still love a brasserie filled with gardenias in the early fall - for ANY bride to be - don't you?

Garden Series: Lilly Pulitzer goes to the Estate

2009-06-15T23:49:00.002+08:00

Almost every little girl I know has been forced into an appallingly bright Lilly Pulitzer outfit at least once or twice in her life - much to her disdain and to her parent's delight. I still find it hard to buy any pieces for my boyfriend's nieces probably because I have memories of feigning ignorance at the flamingo pink shorts with neon green palm trees my grandmother bought me for summer. So gaudy yet extremely preppy. I felt that if only they marketed it a little differently at the time I might've appreciated the brand more, but I feel that only now that I'm older I see where the appeal is - even if it still isn't my cup of tea - so I decided to make a board for the little girl who grew up wearing Lilly P. and is now having her big day with the same inspired colors.

Nouveau (Rebel): Ink, Motorcycles and Rockstars

2009-06-15T23:34:00.003+08:00

I believe that there are some seriously irritating misinterpretations of rock star weddings, with too much eye makeup and weird lighting... generally speaking. You have to keep in mind that a wedding is a wedding, there should still be an element of romance in it. You can have a theme party for Halloween! But some celebs have gotten the hang of balancing kitschy and traditional - Dita Von Teese and Marilyn Manson had a really elegant gothic wedding - nothing tacky or regrettable at all. Even Ashlee Simpson managed a pretty decent punk rock party when she married her husband Pete Wentz. It was like a goth Alice in Wonderland. I think I finally managed to create a board that incorporated two people's separate interests into one underlying theme. My cousin (the very same one who I made another board for when she was getting married) asked me to make something that really suited her... and this guy that she's seeing (who happens to be a real artist! he did her new tattoo!). Normally I'd tell her it was a bit too early to anticipate, but after seeing how this board turned out I don't blame her for fantasizing!

Nouveau (Classic): Gracefully Modern

2009-06-10T11:02:00.004+08:00

When I talk to mother's about their daughter's upcoming nuptials, I feel like they always hope for a little tradition mixed in with all the modern day things (like dogs for bridesmaids and ipod skins for giveaways). I myself believe that a little old school doesn't hurt when planning an event like this because the basics, much like a plain white shirt or a black dress just make a lot of sense. For example, when in doubt, stick to a neutral color palette. You may regret really trendy colors later on. If you're one of those faint hearted people that seem to never make up their minds (or rather their OWN minds, always seeking opinions) then I suggest going for a modern approach to a classic white wedding. It's not dowdy, it's pretty of the moment if you ask me. And the best part is, it will always be in style - something you definitely WON'T cringe at in thirty years.

Garden Series: Who says you can't believe in fairytales after the second grade?

2009-06-09T14:57:00.004+08:00

Last night I caught a snippet of the Spiderwick Chronicles on tv, and it made me think of this book someone gave me when I was younger... it had a bunch of squashed fairies inside, Lady Cottington's fairy journal - or something like that. I was so inspired by it that I decided to make a grown up version of a very pretty childhood distraction. I'm sure a lot of little girls out there grew up to still wonder whether they'll ever sprout glittery wings or wake up in a bed full of pixie dust... but this is the adult version, no Tinkerbells here! You'll see a lot of flowers in this board, and I incorporated a lot of mirrors and vintage pieces to add to the old world charm.

Nouveau (Vintage): A sexy modern vintage wedding with hints of marigold and rich chocolate

2009-06-09T09:16:00.003+08:00

When my cousin announced that she was NO LONGER ENGAGED TO BE MARRIED I only panicked for two reasons. 1) Is she OK? and 2) Oh my God that means that I won't have any pegs to show you for her now defunct February 2010 wedding. It was for the best, so I'm positive that she is in a happier place right now - her skin is glowing and she's wearing shorter skirts (something she didn't do when she was with her ex). I decided to take on a whole new challenge of planning her next wedding party with no one in particular - but this time it's for her sexier side! I was inspired by a board I had seen a long time ago by Snippet & Ink whose host Kathryn is newly engaged (Congratulations!). Also, who hasn't dreamed of a chocolate inspired wedding? I just took that cookie cutter thought and put it on a whole new level.

Nouveau (East Meets West): A collaboration of traditional and modern Japanese style

2009-05-28T14:58:00.003+08:00

My boyfriend is pretty critical of my work here on this blog, but he gives really good suggestions. I don't think I've ever made a board that incorporated any specific countries in the theme... even the Phuket one I made was more about the beach and Thai food than anything - it wasn't a cultural thing at all! So I decided to create a story within the moodboard. Interracial couple who would like to celebrate their wedding traditionally in honor of the bride's parents, but also want to celebrate their modern artsy lifestyle in the city. I thought it was pretty cool, but it's also making me really hungry. I had to check out the chefs at the Benihana website for pegs and all of a sudden I wanted some of their Hibachi Chicken! Before I get carried away... * Ceremony in a tea garden and reception in a modern zen-like loft.

Elopement: Road Trip! Nothing gets better than the original way to run off into the sunset!

2009-05-28T11:39:00.006+08:00

I've always wanted to elope. Even before I knew I wanted a big pretty wedding, I wanted to run off with my fiance and country hop. Seeing as the big wedding idea fades as I get older, the road tripping looks very plausible. Imagine going cross country like in that movie Elizabethtown? Think of all the neat little towns you can explore along the way! Make a scrapbook with polaroid pictures and stubs or little souveniers of the sights you stopped at. Bed and breakfast inns are so underrated! They are the prettiest and most cost friendly places to relax at for the night. Not to mention some of the best homecooked meals I've had were in B&B's. Here's a little board to inspire you. Get hitched at City Hall then get to it!

Garden Series: Herbology and Monet for Nimrat

2009-05-19T15:11:00.003+08:00

I haven't posted here in awhile and I feel like the world is going crazy. Break ups are haunting me! Everyone around me has been throwing in the towel and I feel so bad because I'm all for the pretty wedding (although, if it isn't meant to be - a wedding is essentially a huge dinner party with a white dress, recreate it with your girlfriends instead) and contentedly ever after. I got to talking with one of my best friends Nimrat about get-togethers of the fancy sort (like weddings maybe?) and I realize I never really got inspired by art. Since she's an artist, I felt like I'd make a board or two for her to ponder on while she's in Seattle.

Offshore: Emeralds at Sea

2009-04-22T10:12:00.002+08:00

When I saw the layout of one of the Martha Stewart Wedding spreads, I was so struck by the color palette of aqua and emerald that I knew someday I was going to make a board using it. It was harder than expected, in fact, it took me a couple days to figure out what the hell it was I was looking for. Distracted at best, I finally managed to make a small one that takes place by the sea. Inspired by an Elizabeth Messina picture of tequila and rain splattered shotglasses, I tried my best to pick up where my creativity left off last Sunday for Easter!

Garden Series: Easter Sunday Morning

2009-04-11T10:48:00.002+08:00

Happy Easter! Egg hunting and cavities aside it is a gorgeous day to celebrate (if you're Catholic)... I always notice the sun is always shining on this day. I couldn't help but make a board. It's a spring wedding, really clean and sunny but with Easter touches that don't overwhelm. The pics of the flower girls, spaniel and ring bearers are from Snippet&Ink.

Garden Series: Where The Wild Things Are

2009-04-10T06:11:00.004+08:00

Maurice Sendak's book Where the Wild Things Are was one of my favorite books as a kid, and it's a book I want my son to get into as well. For one of my projects at school I had to create a fashion accessory inspired by a children's book - and of course EVERYONE did Alice in Wonderland... but I thought hard and chose between Madeline and Where the Wild Things Are... so you can guess which one I picked. My family tells me I have a Princess Complex because I love sticking things in my hair or draping them across my forehead, so I recreated Max's crown... but with twigs, dried leaves, a little hummingbird and some other random things. I'm thrilled that they're making a movie out of it, and I hear it has Forrest Whitaker in it so I'm doubly happy. I can't wait to see it! But until then, I guess I just felt the need to do something estravagant, wild and totally irrelevant to popular bridal culture...

Elopement: God Save the Queen Style

2009-04-09T13:15:00.003+08:00

For some reason whenever I get the urge to throw on a trench coat, I dream of London and going crazy vintage shopping while stuffing my face with some malt vinegary fish and chips. My boyfriend comes from SF, but this happens to be his favorite city in the world, and since he's bugged me for so long to do a board on it I figure no better time than Holy Week (when everything is closed and everyone is vacationing). It's got pretty much everything in it. Burberry coats, curry and even the little red telephone booths! Hopefully this will make you feel a little cooler in this hot weather.....!

Destination: Kahlo Mexico!

2009-04-09T08:21:00.002+08:00

Frida Kahlo was one of the most influential painters of the 20th century and one of my personal favorites... I think she's the only person ever to make a unibrow relevant. I realize I've gotten so caught up in garden weddings (because I guess that's the norm during this season) that I forget there are other categories to fill... like a destination garden wedding! Actually it's not so much in a garden, it's more in a courtyard. My friend Nim is a really amazing artist and I was inspired to use art as a focal point after talking to her yesterday. Hopefully I can make a board for her soon! This is probably the most colorful board I've made so far and honestly i'm excited about it because I'm not so much of a super color oriented person. Anyway, enjoy la fiesta!

Sounds Like (Nothing Sweet about Me by Gabriella Climi ): An Indian Summer!

2009-04-07T13:30:00.005+08:00

The world has been slowly accepting the climate change, some are noticing cooler weather while others notice that summers have all of a sudden become endless. Since there's nothing we can do except continue to be eco friendly and aware, lets take advantage of the indian summers and plan something really cool at a very summery location - your local vineyard. Unlike a previous post, which was really sophisticated and a little elegant - this board is really just fun and bright. This song makes me want to just lie down on the grass with an ice cold limeade. AND now asians can't complain because THAILAND has their own little wine country - i've been there! And it's every bit as pretty as the wine country in California. But anyway, here's something for the heat...

Garden Series: Ceramic White, Silver and Powder Blue

2009-04-05T23:03:00.002+08:00

Best thing to post nowadays is a garden wedding - being spring and all I feel it's most appropriate. This particular one has interesting shades, like new neutrals including cool white, canvas and a little hint of powdery blue with some pretty silverware thrown in for a more formal feel. To get this look all you need to do is check out etsy.com for some little offbeat objects that you can decorate with. Shopping online has never been easier or more fun!

Garden Series: Hydrangeas, Hedges and Elephants - Oh My!

2009-03-31T13:47:00.003+08:00

I've been totally neglecting this blog because I've been busy working and trying to hang out with some of my best friends who flew in last week as a surprise. After checking out how the business is I realised one of two things. A) It is hard and demanding and B) I totally love it. It really makes me think that I could reach out to brides... I love talking to people about style, about how they met their boyfriends or fiances... I think that I could really do this for a living once Lucas gets a little older. Once he starts walking and is a more independent little guy, I think it will be time to take on some bigger things. It's always at a certain point in your life when you know you're ready to do something because it interests you every single day... to my boyfriend's dismay, I am obsessed with weddings and parties. We're hoping we're headed towards that direction, but you don't want to count your chickens too soon right? I do get to think about what it is that I want for MY wedding while I talk to brides about their own - and I have to admit, it's a vicious cycle of MIND CHANGING. A few months ago I would have loved a Meditteranean feel, but now I've completely gone crazy over hydrangeas - which happen to feel slightly preppy to me. So, out of my love for them, I made this board for MYSELF, yet again. It has a lot of my boyfriend's personality in it too, so it makes me sort of giddy playing out something HE would like. It's perfect for spring, no matter where you are in the world!

Reel to Real: Lost at Sea! A fun version of a not-so-funny situation!

2009-03-13T09:17:00.003+08:00

I was asked to make this, but I think my assignment required me to be more SPECIFIC... however, on this blog I can be as collage oriented as possible! I had a lot of fun making this board, partly because of the really cool jpeg I found of the vintage luggage on google images. A lot of the time, when people think of the movies that showcase deserted islands - it isn't that happy... like that one movie with Tom Hanks where he conversed with a volleyball for the majority of the film. But this wedding is FUN! complete with mini survival kits for guests, little passport holders and baggage tags - the lanterns hanging above the dining area give it a really great feeling: like camping under the stars!

Destination: Love in the Time of Vineyards

2009-03-08T21:04:00.003+08:00

Instead of a Hacienda, I picked a vineyard in California for the venue of this awesome Gabriel Garcia Marquez inspired wedding. I know it's not exactly Cartagena, but what the heck - it looks pretty cool, what with the invitations from Pearl Press and everything. This wedding has much more of a color theme c0mpared to most of the ones I made before. The cover of Love in the time of Cholera and this particular invitation inspired me. I don't really know how this is coherent to most vineyard weddings, but for some reason I think it just jives. Also I really love the glass lemonade and iced tea dispensers... really summery without making simple beverages look tacky, which happens alot when you use plastic containers. More to come in the sweltering heat!

Garden Series: Sunday morning brunch in Pistachio and Apricot

2009-02-25T20:35:00.005+08:00

I was really inspired by this daisy cake I saw on Martha Stewart's website, but then I got thrown off by this picture of a fondant cake with pistachio and apricot buttercream filling. I have never come across such an unusual combination, and I immediately thought that it deserved its very own board. I feel that most weddings are mainly family affairs and if your guests are flying in from all over, why not treat them to an event culminating in a brunch? I've been to a wedding in California near Pebble Beach and on the morning after we were treated to a gorgeous preppy brunch. It was such a great ending to the weekend. I knew since then that like myself, most women would want their big day to extend itself to a three day adventure. So here goes my first attempt at experimenting with color palettes. Hopefully I'll feel more inspired as the heat drags on!

Elopement: City that Never Sleeps

2009-02-18T11:45:00.003+08:00

The city that never sleeps often inspires a lot of modern love stories. New York is full of people but can often be a lonely place with miserly scrooges and moneyed widows (mostly in books of course). My favorite movie, Great Expectations, inspired me to make this board. I felt that Estella and Finn would probably elope if it hadn't been for Dinsmoor and her brokenhearted bad influence. Every time I see that movie I want to cry because of that one particular scene where they kiss in the rain. Gets me every time.

Destination: Louisiana Magnolias and Layer Cake

2009-02-18T11:36:00.004+08:00

I feel really bad about not posting anything on Valentine's day, but then again I didn't want to put up a cliche board with hearts, roses and chocolate cake. So I decided to put up two boards today, since I've been neglectful. My boyfriend suggested this one to me because he loves New Orleans and the south, and gumbo! I think that it would be a real standout wedding at a plantation with gorgeous flowers and all that creole food. I think subconsciously we've been thinking about southern food because we've been watching all that True Blood. We love that show. Anyway, this is my take on a Louisiana wedding...

Nouveau (Earthy): Naturally Elegant

2009-02-11T14:33:00.004+08:00

Since Al Gore's documentary on our planetary issues with global warming, people have begun to realize that the eco way may be the only way to restore and keep our forests and seas thriving. I'm a big fan of nature and all it's bounty so it really isn't a surprise that I chose to come up with this board today after I noticed that just about everyone has adopted the no plastic bag approach with canvas totes at the supermarket. I love the idea and think it's really responsible. Anyway this is an eco chic wedding, very natural with interesting colors from the sea, forest and desert.

Nouveau (Hen Party): Serena Gold

2009-02-06T09:28:00.004+08:00

So most bachelorette parties consist of mojitos, an oddly disguised male stripper and a lot of dancing. I was indulging in what I call the greatest sin of the decade, Gossip Girl, when I decided that I would include this little board to my Isabel tribute. Like golden girl Serena (who is literally golden from head to toe... how the hell can one person be so wonderfully monochromatic?), Isa has many sides and one of them has a tremendous linkage to glamourpuss parties and champagne evenings. I for one think this would be a gorgeous party, the boys can crash later, but right now it's all for the girls - a fantasy party with a La Perla fashion show for the honeymoon, gold accents, decadent treats, furry rugs and an homage to Bardot and Hepburn. I suppose this is for the woman without a budget, and though these are hard times - it's still wonderful to dream big.

Wish me luck today, I'll really need it. I have to cook for the Organic Market tomorrow, then go on a little hunt for my boyfriend's phone which I lost (much to his annoyance, even if it's old and he doesn't care for it) yesterday while watching Australia. Anyway, here's today's board:

Love Sounds Like (Caravan by Rachel Portman): Isabel, Gypsy Soul

2009-02-05T12:04:00.004+08:00

For my BFF Isabel, who will be my inspiration for all the boards this week. She's beautiful, intelligent and happens to be culturally inclined and nomadic. She roomed with me in Paris and now lives in Shanghai, which should tell you that she takes risks, no matter what the hardships are. I hope you love these!

But Isa, even though you are a traditional girl, today's board is for your gypsy soul!

Nouveau (Shabby Chic): Central Park Boathouse

2009-01-26T23:43:00.003+08:00

I tried to submit this to style me pretty since there was a contest going on, but i don't think she got my mail yet. Anyway, someone was having a hard time planning her wedding around her chosen themes: raspberry and shabby chic...which can be a mind bender, but I read that this lady was having her wedding in Louisiana - which is gorgeous and full of plantations for venues, perfect for shabby chic events. However, I overlooked that part on my board and made my venue the Boathouse in Central Park. This is a very relaxed board, not as feminine or over the top as most shabby chic themes go, but you'll still see a lot of charm in the details.

Elopement: City of Blinding Lights

2009-01-21T15:21:00.003+08:00

So history was made yesterday with Obama being sworn in as the new president of the United States. I thought it would have been amazing to be a part of it, and I did attempt to make a patriotic all-americana type of board but I was never able to finish it in time. I did, however, finish making a new type of board... the Elopement series! I figure that not EVERYONE wants the big white wedding, some people are more into celebrating a quiet union with each other. This way you can afford to do it in another country, or anywhere you wanted without your parents/in-laws trying to run the show their way. Hopefully I can finish my New York style elopement board before the day is over, but for now, here is one for the books! An elopement in my heart's town, Paris. It all sounds terribly romantic. I hope I captured the best parts of it in this board. A bientot!

Nouveau (Summer Night): Elegant Neutrals & Mediterranean Fare

2009-01-15T14:09:00.008+08:00

Today is my second anniversary with my boyfriend, and I think we're both not so into the whole romantic gesture thing - which is strange because my chosen passion has much to do with a great deal of romance. I think tonight we'll just catch Bride Wars, which I heard was pretty entertaining. Maybe I'll come out of it with a new idea for tomorrow's board. Now I wasn't going to post this just because it was so personal, but since it IS our anniversary and maybe somewhere down the line I'll get to use this for OUR wedding (if EVER!)... yes I made a board for myself while listening to the song Mondo Bongo by Joe Strummer & the Mescaleros on repeat. This should actually be a Sounds Like board! It's what I have ALWAYS wanted, down to the dinnerware, soothing color scheme and the dessert. Totally the opposite of my brother's very formal wedding at the National Museum, yet it's also in the evening. How can we do neutrals at night? Take a look. It's the typical summer wedding redone. One day it'll be mine!

Offshore: Sunset at Phuket

2009-01-14T07:54:00.004+08:00

Exotic food, brilliant sunsets and nights punctuated with millions of stars. This board is inspired by the incredible night scene at Phuket, Thailand. Personally I love Thailand, especially being half Burmese (which hundreds of years ago would make no sense I imagine), but it really is like a second home to me. I used to accompany my mom on her business trips, at least five to six times a year. The Thai people are so creative, the best at packaging. I'd pay five times more for their candles and incense probably because of the too-appealing way they had packaged them. I figured I would post this in homage to Alex Garland's novel The Beach. I suppose if things actually had worked out between Etienne and Francoise, or Francoise and Richard (and assuming of course that they decided to go back to the mainland) maybe their wedding could have looked like this. I'm getting ahead of myself. Enjoy.