gratefulbride's Blue Wedding Blog - Wedding By Color http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride body {background-image: url("http://i342.photobucket.com/albums/o401/Thecutestblogontheblock/madisonavenuecopy.jpg"); background-position: center; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-attachment: fixed; } ]]> Fri, 10 Oct 2008 22:51:57 PST en-us Ask a Question - NWR: What Kind of Car Do You Drive? http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/29189 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/29189 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 22:36:00 PST In lieu of all the wedding planning, budgeting & DIY projects we've been involved with, I thought it might be fun to shake up the forum a little bit. SO, the question of the day is 'What kind of car do you have?', or' what is your dream car?' Or, both. Mine is a '08 black Honda Accord. Dream car is an Audi A8 :::sigh::: ]]> Congrats!!! - ~Best Wishes to Another Beautiful Bride~ http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/28722 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/28722 Wed, 08 Oct 2008 07:37:00 PST Well Ladies, It's about that time! The WBC counter says 2 days, but I think it's really 3 before Nikki, aka The Ultimate DIYer becomes one with her Soul Mate!!! Whooo Hooo! Nikki, we'll miss you & all of your contagious inspiration. Thank you for being so open to share your fabulous ideas. Cant wait to see the pics!!!]]> For My FH - The Boutonniere http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/28692 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/28692 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 22:29:00 PST For Mr. Gratefulbride's bout style, we are optiong for something rich, but simple. We are sticking with a clean, white flower. Additions may include crystal studding along the covered stem, rhinestone inserts (like you'd see in a bouquet, only less dramatic), or a few white feathers for texture & 'Man Glam' appeal :) The one thing we're certain on is that the flower of choice will be white, & although we both love the color green, there won't be any greenery in the bouts or bouquets. We're sticking with either roses, orchids or peonies. All photos courtesy of The Knot.]]> (no subject) http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/28592 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/28592 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 11:38:00 PST My Real Wedding from The Knot and The Nest. I know we've all seen our fair share of fabulous ostrich feather arrangements, but I still had to post this beautiful Hollywood Vintage Glam wedding from The Knot. I mainly was drawn to her invites. The bride is fortunate, as she owns a custom invitation studio! The boxed invites included an ivory satin pillow and an acrylic plaque with three layer black and ivory paper. And an ostrich feather with a little bling! Just click the tab to see her wedding.]]> Boudoir Picture Sale - In Atlanta http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/28480 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/28480 Mon, 06 Oct 2008 16:20:00 PST If you're considering having professional Boudoir photos, & live in or near Atlanta, this may be for you. Sky + Carla Photography, of Atlanta, GA is offering a sale for $199. As with any sale, this is for a limited time. You would have to contact her soon & get your appointment set, however, the photos can be taken up until January of 2009. You can check out the blog for details, as well as get the contact info here: http://sexyboudoir.blogspot.com/ For Sky + Carla's other photog blog spot, go to:http://sky-carla.blogspot.com/ The boudoir SALE session price is $199 (reg.$275): Session includes: Pre- shoot consultation 2 hours of camera time Unlimited outfits within time Password protected online gallery for 3 months Personalized greeting card for your loved one CD including all edited shots with copyright release so you can make all the prints that you want :) ]]> DIY - Stylish CD Favors http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/27702 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/27702 Tue, 30 Sep 2008 19:24:00 PST I thought I was completely done with our favors (monogrammed gourmet cookies), but then I saw THIS!!! Miss Pomegrante of Wedding Bee posted her ultra fabulous Jewel Box cd favors, & looking at the chicness of it all has only lured me into yet another DIY project. Only this time, I am limiting quantities. I didn't budget for these, but since we're saving money on the cookie favors by having a culinary school make them, I just may be able to squeeze a few cds in. I think that I will slash the numbers & create these only for the oot boxes, as an additional favor for those who have traveled from afar. Not that their presence means more or less, but an extra thank you because we all know that gas is ridiculous these days! Stay tuned...]]> DIY - Table Numbers http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/27666 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/27666 Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:27:00 PST Most of the signage at our reception will be predominantly in the Gray family, because we will have various accents of the Aqua Blue & Iridescent White, & we want to tone it down a little. Anyhoo, this is my first run on our table numbers. I am pleased with having the best of both elements....damask & the chandelier. They will be printed out on cardstock & placed in rhinestone bordered frames for that bling. I don't have the frames yet, I am considering DIY because they tend to be costly. I am doing 5x7 sized table numbers, so if anyone sees frames like the ones mentioned for cheap, please let me know.]]> DIY - Photo Sharing Cards, Inspired by Ultimate DIYer http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/27406 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/27406 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:21:00 PST So they say that imitation is the best form of flattery, right? Well, I totally got this idea from Fabulous Ultimate DIYer. I basically "borrowed" her cute title & the concept. I guess I'll give myself credit for the design, but thanks to Nikki, we should have some extra photos to share. Please imagine the shade of blue in more of the Aqua blue that we're using. I made these in Publisher & cannot convert my files to JPEG's for proper viewing in the true colors. This is the uploaded version on Vista Print, & the Aqua blue changes on their site from uploads. Also, the dimensions & some of the text is off on the back side. This has since been corrected, & some things were left incomplete for privacy issues.]]> Welcome Water Bottle Labels - For the Welcome Boxes http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/27401 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/27401 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 06:57:00 PST I was stumped at getting just what I wanted for our water bottle labels, so I went to my girl, the Magnificent Marta! She whipped up these 2 designs for me based off of my request. She actually took the time to outline the skyline of Charlotte for me, knowing good & well, I would have slapped ANY city on there, lol! Now that I see what to do, mainly regarding the dimensions, I might come up with 1-2 more designs just to alternate, but I wanted to showcase what Marta did first. Thanks Marta!]]> Bridesmaid Chic - Bridal Party Newsletter http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/27254 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/27254 Sun, 28 Sep 2008 13:16:00 PST This is my 2nd edition of "Bridesmaid Chic". It is a useful communication tool that is definitely not mandatory, but it works for me & my girls, plus it serves as a keepsake & I have to say that I absolutely LOVE doing these. Anyways, you can make yours as short as a 1 page memo, or as long as this one (or more). This was created in Publisher, but you can easily use Word, Adobe or another source. The 1st edition is posted in my April pages if interested. CLICK ON IMAGE TO SEE BETTER. Here are the instructions for Publisher (that is what I used). 1.) Open up Publisher & go to "Publications for Print" 2.) Scroll Down & Click "Newsletters" 3.) Choose the template that best suits your style. 4.) Go from there & customize with your colors, patterns, monograms, pics, etc. It really takes some getting used to for the most part, but it's all about manipulating the boxes & styles. If you get stuck at all, feel free to email me. I can do my best to get you started.]]> Candle Light - For the Decor http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/26786 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/26786 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 09:58:00 PST If I don't have anything else at our wedding & reception, it HAS to be candles galore. IMO they add such a warm, beautiful ambiance to the room, & they also help to set the tone. These beautiful lamp shades are found on www.save-on-crafts.com. They actually are tealight shades that fit on top of a wine glass. You can add ribbon, or sprinkle diamond confetti, or nothing at all. I am thinking of ordering 2-4 of these for the Coffee Bar. ]]> Finally - Found A Damask Guestbook http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/26687 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/26687 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:31:00 PST I admit, there are plenty of Damask Guestbooks out there, but I wanted a combination of a Hardback Photobook, like something you'd find on Shutterfly or Blurb, but all with the touch of Damask. Let alone, in our colors. I found the best of both worlds at this site, & the prices arent too bad. Unfortunately, they didnt have Steel Gray & Tiffany Blue, but this is close enough. Here's the link: http://www.photoworks.com/photo-books/category.jsp?selCategory=books2+occasions+wedding]]> Chandelier Cardbox - Inspired by Cake http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/26385 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/26385 Mon, 22 Sep 2008 20:38:00 PST I've been back & forth on what type of cardbox I want to make, & all I knew was that I wanted something unique & still fitting to our wedding. Who knew there'd be so much thought about where to put some cards?! I got the graphic designs from Weddingbee & the actual cake design is from a fantastic bakery (can't remember the name, but is somewhere in my bio). The shapes will most likely be square (will cover in motif wallpaper), & will alternate between damask & chandelier motifs, which is exactly what we're including in the wedding. Im going to use style #1 as my inspiration, but shaped like the square cake. I love it. ]]> FYI - Paper Lanterns for Tiffany/Aqua Brides http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/26073 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/26073 Sat, 20 Sep 2008 19:39:00 PST I was in Super Target tonight (the dollar section) & found Tiffany Blue paper lanterns. They are not $1, but they come 2 per pack for $2.50! The dimensions are 12 inches (30.5cm). They are about 2 shades darker than traditional "Tiffany Blue", but Im totally okay with that for $2.50! Oh, & my location only has round. I cant post a pic yet, but the pic here is exactly what the lanterns look like. I am soooo sorry to come off selfish, but I really didn't notice any other colors in the bins. I went into a frenzy when I saw these, so my eyesight got a little foggy. :) I think they did have them in white. P.S. Thanks to Bethbilly, she included the following info for cheaper lanterns!!!- "not sure if you've ever been on a site www.efavormart.com but they have the paper lanterns (and a LOT of other things really cheap)..and in the tiffany blue (called turquoise). they come in 12', 16', 20' and range from 2.99 for 6 (the 12") to 3.99 for 6 (20'). they also come in a variety of colors".]]> Belly Bands - Not So DIY http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/25838 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/25838 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 19:37:00 PST For those of you considering having Belly Bands for your invites, but don't actually want to cut the bands to size, you can order precut bands in a variety of colors & patterns for $7.95 per 25: http://www.envelopperinc.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=ENVLPR&Category_Code=]]> Brooch 4 Less - Bling Bling http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/25734 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/25734 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 08:24:00 PST I was in Forever 21 over the weekend & came across these suprisingly clear, & lovely brooches. I didn't buy them initially, but have decided to go back & get em! I am going to use them for my Bridal Party bouquets & maybe for my shoes...not sure. The dimensions are 2.5 x 2.5. They are $6.80. Not too shabby. P.S. No, I don't work for Forever 21, lol.]]> Got Paint? - Kids Place Settings http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/25340 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/25340 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 20:06:00 PST I thought I was finished with the kid's touches at our wedding, but I was looking through a previous edition of Martha Stewart's Bridal Magazine, & came across adorably chic welcome packages for out of town guests, & of all things, they used paint cans! You can purchase them for a couple of dollars at your local hardware store, & probably at Wal Mart too. Anyway, I don't plan to use the paint cans for our oot guests, because cost-wise, I will save money using our original idea of gable boxes, however, I will be buying up some of these paint cans, since we will have less than 20 kids in attendance. The kids will actually have their own (supervised) room off of the banquet hall. There will be long, rectangular tables & these paint cans will be personalized as the place settings. I will fill them with inexpensive bulk items from Dollar Store & Oriental Trading. One of the decor ideas Im brainstorming on, is using chalkboard spray paint to spray each can & write the kids name with chalk. If not that, I will use Damask Scrapbook paper & print labels with names. Stay tuned for finished product....we're getting close!! UPDATE!!! These paint cans are actually $4 something @ Home Depot. It's the smaller quartsized paint cans that are $2!! So, it didnt take me long to decide, we will be getting the smaller cans. Ive already started on this project....will post pics soon.]]> Yay for Mjview! - This is Her Weekend :) http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/24669 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/24669 Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:04:00 PST Just sending a shoutout to the creative & beautiful Mjview. I didn't see any farewells on her bio (yet), so I just wanted to remind her that we're all thinking of her. Congrats MJ!! If you haven't already visited her page, you have to check it out (pink & green). All of her ideas & plans are so pretty. Best wishes this weekend MJ!!! Cant wait to see the pics :)]]> Cake Table - So Cute http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/23815 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/23815 Sat, 06 Sep 2008 05:43:00 PST I have been on a mission to find the most linens for the least price. I've been mainly searching for colored linens & texture. Along my findings, I came across a lovely site with an extra chic cake table covering, made with tulle. I hadn't seen tulle look so good, & of course, I am trying my darndest to mimic this look, of course in our wedding colors. I am awaiting a price quote from the company, which is why I havent posted a price, but if you're looking for linens, or may just want ideas or inspiration, check out their site. Yes...they even have damask. :) www.bbjlinen.com]]> Classic - A Photo Must Have http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/23506 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/23506 Thu, 04 Sep 2008 08:59:00 PST I'm not trying to get political views stirred up by this post, but simply highlighting the beauty in this shot. Mr.Gratefulbride & I will hopefully be able to get a pic like this on our big day. Only 190 days to go!! ]]> Sitting Pretty - Napkin Details http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/22682 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/22682 Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:05:00 PST People think of absolutely everything when it comes to weddings! Napkins included!! Here's some inspiration that you can definitely do on your own, or you an surely leave it to the pros. Also, if you haven't checked out Porcelain Bride's post about putting brooches on napkins, you have to see that too. It is so chic. Anyway, these pics are a few more of my faves. You can check out more napkins @ Decorative Instincts, The White Cottage & Linen Effects.]]> Ask a Question - When Is Your Wedding Day??? http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/22520 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/22520 Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:54:00 PST Forgive me if this question has already circulated, but when is everybody's wedding day??? I'm curious to see when everyone is celebrating & especially who else is having March weddings. :) ]]> DIY - Goody Bags http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/22451 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/22451 Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:45:00 PST I was on Martha Stewart's website awhile back & saw these adorable bags that could be used for so many things, from favors, to desserts to gifts. In our case, since we have the favors already taken c/o, I will be making these bags up for the kid's station. They won't be as formal with the scripted font, but I will have some type of kiddie font or bubble letters on the bag. I have a ton of white paper bags that I was going to use for luminaries, but there's enough for this project to save $$$. Inside, there will be retro candy (Bottle Caps, Lemon Heads, Mike & Ikes, Bubble Gum), stickers, bubbles, & crayons. That way, it stays pretty gender specific. There will also be girl/boy friendly prizes & giveaways in a tote for the kids that an adult will give out. Here's the directions, if interested: Ribbon Loop How-ToFor this gift bag, we used a 5-by-9 1/2-inch paper bag and a 19 1/2-inch length of 1-inch-wide ribbon. A slightly stiff ribbon works better than a floppy satin. Punch two holes in the bag's center, one above the other, about 1/2 inch apart. Fold ribbon lengthwise; notch ends. Pull the folded end through the bottom hole, from the front to the back of the bag, then pull it forward through the top hole, creating a loop from the top third of the ribbon. Tie the ends in a square knot.
]]> Fashionable Style - For Less http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/22418 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/22418 Wed, 27 Aug 2008 08:14:00 PST My style varies from Bohemian Chic to Classy & I tend to take accessories from Vintage to Modern & have fun with it all. That's why I really like Forever 21, when in a crunch & need something quick, stylish & not overly priced. So far, I have purchased handbags, jackets, dresses, shirts & jewelry, & have never ever experienced poor quality. But, for the price, I am a little sensitive when it comes to washing the garments...just in case, lol. I either dry clean it or wash on cold & hang dry. So anyway, I'm just throwing Forever 21 out there to you ladies because you may find something cute for your Engagement Photos, Rehearsal Dinner, Bridal Party Jewelry, & even pretty undies (most is 3 for $10) for your Honeymoon or even Budoir Pics. I am personally eyeing the $6 brooches as possible Bridal Party bouquet brooches. If you don't have a F21 near you, the website is www.forever21.com. P.S. Everything posted here today ranges from $3.80 to $32.80.]]> Ask a Question - How/When Did You Know It Was Love? http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/22210 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/22210 Mon, 25 Aug 2008 18:02:00 PST So, my fiance will tell you there was a magnetic attraction when we first met, but I'll tell you it took awhile, lol. We knew each other from work, & I always knew he had a crush on me, but the timing just was never right. Until one day....we went to lunch together, P.F. Changs to be exact. We couldn't stop giggling & talking, & even finishing each other's sentences. Every time I locked eyes with him, I got butterflies. That was on a Friday, in June of 2004. We couldn't beat the feelings & decided to go on our official first date later that evening. Still, more sparks. It was craziness! We had known each other for 4 years prior, but NOW this was happening? It was then "our thing" to go on a date every Friday night (at least). I almost tried to supress my feelings for him out of fear, but by July neither of us could hold back the "L" word, because it was mutually evident. I really cant pinpoint a moment, or a glance, or a word of when & where or how it actually happened, but all I know is we're in it now & there's no turning back! So...HOW/WHEN did it happen for you????!!!! ]]> Menu - Different Styles http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/22196 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/22196 Mon, 25 Aug 2008 17:20:00 PST I'm going to make our dinner & coffee station menus for the reception. The dinner menus will be round, & positioned at each place setting. There will be mentioning of the coffee station on this menu, but the more detailed version including flavors, signature beverage & teas will be listed at the actual station. At least, that's the plan for now. If anyone is interested in circular menus, there is a great tutorial at this link: http://little-miss-planner.blogspot.com/search/label/DIY Also, you can purchase round cardstock for this project at: http://www.envelopemall.com/detail.aspx?ID=425 I have included some of my fave menu styles here from Martha Stewart Weddings, Etsy & Style Me pretty & The Knot. I am planning to order quartz or aquamarine cardstock & print with black, but have a chandelier or flourish motif in the background.]]> For Your Dress - Monogrammed Hanger Covers http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/21613 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/21613 Wed, 20 Aug 2008 20:07:00 PST Totally cute from Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12342373 or http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_gallery_1&listing_id=11809656 (can serve as something blue)]]> OOT Box Alternative - Hat Boxes http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/21103 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/21103 Sat, 16 Aug 2008 23:02:00 PST I came across this website tonight, & spotted these chic little hat boxes (3 different sizes): http://dunwoodybooth.com/ Since we are having about 70% of our guests coming in from out of town, we will be providing oot bags or boxes. I have been toggling back & forth as to whether we will go with gable boxes, personalized tote bags, or NOW these pretty hat boxes. I am envisioning them being set up with the lid in the box & the items nicely arranged, almost like a filled basket effect. The black & white is similar to damask (in my mind) & the aqua goes perfectly with our scheme. I did a post on this waaaaaayyyy back (page 5, 2/23/08 post) & I have items listed for what will go in each box. I will be checking out Hobby Lobby & AC Moore for cheapo hat boxes & do a mock up. Not sure which to go with now. :)]]> Celebrity Wedding Blog - Malinda WIlliams http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/20745 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/20745 Wed, 13 Aug 2008 22:50:00 PST You may or may not have heard of or seen Malinda Williams' work as an actress. She is mainly known for her role in the Showtime series, "Soul Food", as 'Bird'. I highly admire her style, beauty, talent, & now her will & devotion to open up a portion of her wedding planning process to the world, by way of her own Blog, by Essence. She is engaged to marry the handsome rapper, 'D-Nice'. She shares info from her personal hair care tips, to her wedding shower, to overall planning & thought concerns. It's not everyday that a celebrity opens up an affair as intimate as this to the public. The Blog won't go on for long....the wedding date is August 23! Yes, of this year, lol. She's only been blogging over the summer, so take a peek if interested :) http://essence.typepad.com/celebrityweddings/ ]]> Ask a Question - Where Do You Put It? http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/20545 http://www.weddingbycolor.com/gratefulbride/milestones/20545 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 18:10:00 PST Just wondering....where do you put all of your wedding "stuff" until the Big Day? Is it a mess, or do you keep it orderly? For me, this is the breakdown: 1.) Dress- In My Parent's Closet (I just don't want Mr. Gratefulbride to take an unexpected peek at my place). 2.) DIY Projects- Stored inside of Rubbermaid Totes (garage) 3.) Cardstock, stamps, misc items- Inside of mini Rubbermaid bins. (Office) 4.) Most notes/pics, contracts are in my HUGE wedding binder & also in files on my computer. 5.) Gifts & everything else are also in a bin with lid. How about you? Do you have a system or randomly put things wherever you can for the wedding?]]>