29 June, 2009

Back in the Saddle

Hey everyone! Again, let me apologize for being silent so long! I have been ultra busy here in the MKE. A friend of mine is getting married in August and I've been giving her some advice, I'm planning a Tiki barbecue (details of the planning will be split between my two blogs), I'm updating things at my other blog, cleaning up pictures of a Farmer's Market in Madison (our capital) and picking out some recipes to go with the pictures for a garden party idea, and planning a cupcake party (details soon...I've finished the invites!). Also, The Hubbs and I have been cleaning up our yard and planting flowers before it gets too hot.

Oh, and Summerfest is here and The Hubbs and I went on Sunday....lots of fun!

Sooo, this week? I have a new Etsy Lovin' segment for you, a how-to and a couple garden party ideas. I think it's going to be pretty great. I have a big week planned here at Renegade Soiree and I hope you'll join me!

Let's get to it!

How-To: Paper Rosettes

Hey everyone! As I mentioned earlier, I am planning a cookout. It will be the first of the season for The Hubbs and I. I'm getting really excited! I had a large design block the other day while working on the invitations and I decided to stop torturing myself and work on creating some decorations. These rosettes are the first ones I've come up with. I'm not sure they'll fit in with my theme (late 50's Tiki theme! Specific-I know, but I've waited such a long time to do this...), but I LOVE paper rosettes and just had to make them!

Here's the step by step with pictures! (You'll have to excuse my pics...my dining room has weird lighting and I missed out on natural light. Boo.)

You will need:


3- 8.5 x 11 sheets of text weight paper
Double sided tape
Hole Punch
Bone Folder/Ruler
Ribbon
Scissors


First, accordion fold each sheet of paper lengthwise. I suggest 3/4" folds. The ones shown are larger in order to be more easily visible. use your bone folder to smooth out the folds and to make sure they stay straight. If you are experiencing problems, you may try marking out the 3/4" intervals. Use pencil to hide lines and marks most easily.




Then, fold the length of accordion folds in half (end to end). The result will be resemble a fan. Use a length of double sided tape to fasten the ends together, completing the fan. Repeat with the two remaining pieces.


Connect each fan using more double-sided tape. You will see your rosette starting to form. Affix the last two ends together, completing the circle.


Finally, punch a hole, thread any length of ribbon and hang. Once you get the hang of the process, try using paper of all sizes and colors for a different aesthetic. For the best result, try to stay away from "matchy-matchy" colors and opt instead for colors that complement or coordinate with one another. In the picture below, I used a gift wrap sheet (20" x 30") for the large and three sheets of 5" x 7" for the small. The gray rosette is the regular size, using three sheets of 8.5" x 11" paper. I love the way they look together! Tres chic!



Versatility makes them perfect for a number of creative uses. Print a picture or name on a circular card and attach to the middle of the rosette. Then hang from the backs of chairs for a quick and easy seating arrangement. Embellish tables by hanging one at the two front corners. I love to hang them at different lengths from the ceiling to add a little pizazz to an indoor event. Try affixing to tree branches to spice up your outdoor ceremony or reception.

Click here to see a few more pictures of the finished product!

Back Again!

Hey everyone! Again, let me apologize for being silent so long! I have been ultra busy here in the MKE. A friend of mine is getting married in August and I've been giving her some advice, I've been approving some proofs of wedding pictures we are having printed, writing a story for The Knot to go with some pictures (I'm hoping to be a featured wedding) and I'm planning a Tiki barbecue (details of the planning will be split between my two blogs). Also, I've been trying to clean up some pictures of I wedding I attended in May.

Sooo, this week? Well, I've been working on a new series. I think it's going to be pretty great. Not my usual lighthearted fare, but something important nonetheless. So, we'll see how it goes. I have a how to for all of you on paper rosettes as well as some summer bridal shower ideas. I have a big week planned here at Holy, Matrimony! and I hope you'll join me!

Let's get to it!

15 June, 2009

A Busy Weekend

Hello all!

What a busy weekend The Hubbs and I had. On Saturday, we went to Madison to attend a Farmer's Market! It was grrreat! I have a few pictures for you....and a couple of recipes that will make any party unique.

I finally took sometime to do a bit of crafting as well. I worked on an invitation idea for our BBQ and although I am still deciding whether I like it, I decided I'll share it with you and see what you think...

Ah, me.....what a wonderful weekend!

08 June, 2009

Milwaukee's Finest!

So, there I was-perusing my favorite blogs and minding my own business, when I came across Cracked Designs. I follow this blog, but I hadn't caught up with them in awhile. Boy, was I missing out!

Cracked Designs is a Milwaukee based greeting card and design company. They specialize in clever, greeting cards and custom wedding stationery. And let me say, "meow!" I am in lust with their paper finery. Today, I found three items in particular that I must share with you all.

The first thing I saw was this. Um, hello?! Have you seen anything cuter? I love how the two versions on the end have the initials inside the birds. Mmmm, it's love! Wanna see more? Well, here it is:



This design is called "Lovebirds" and is part of Cracked Designs' Signature Collection. Here are the specs...
This suite is $175 for a set of 50 (set includes 1-5"x7" invitation with backing, 1-3.5" x 5" reply card, 1- 3.5" x 5" reception card, 1- 4 bar reply envelope and 1- A7 outer envelope). The suite can be customized with your unique colors and information; Lovebirds can also be purchased in any quantity! Hooray! All pieces are printed on finely textured, heavyweight card stock. You will receive an e-mail proof. This is the Etsy shop where you can convo the geniuses behind the design with your questions, concerns and specifics. The turnaround for this suite is usually one week. Shipping would be $5.00.

The team at Cracked Designs works with recycled papers and a vast array of designs. Prices will vary of course, based on quantity and invitation style. Custom work is available as well. For those of you who would like to know a little bit more about the invites at Cracked Designs, they offer a sample pack option. A what? That's right, a sample pack! Here's a little taste...


"Get out of town?!", you say. I will not. This is brilliant, Cracked Designs and I say "Brava!". Okay Brides, listen up! If you can get a sample to have, hold and use to get a sense of the product you are about to buy, do it! Seriously. It's the only way to be sure you're getting what you pay for. The problem is, most designers that I've run across just don't offer this as an option. Some do, but be prepared to pay for it. Often, the retail store you visit will have vendor samples but you can't take them home and you certainly can't take them to your other vendors to help articulate your design scheme. For a paltry five clams, you can order any of the six Signature Collection designs or you can order a sample from one of their custom jobs. One quick convo about what you're looking for and "voila!".

Finally, one of my favorite Cracked Design products. Ever. The Journey Journal! "Mutha whaaat?! Shut your mouth!" I love this product! Measuring 5" x 7" and printed on heavy card stock, this journal has it all! Inside this clever little tome you'll find: a checklist, pre-planning list, places for reflections, drawings, official info, plans, date and location! It's unbelievable. There is even a storage space for small mementos you may have acquired along the way. The cutest feature, for me is the 6 round metal fasteners and length of string that comes with the journal so you can mark your journey on the cover. This 12 day travel journal will run you only $12.00. Be on the lookout for all the Journey Journal editions, including Spring Break, Europe and Australia. Wanna customize? Contact the seller and you just might get your wish!



Delish! The Journey Journal is a perfect handmade gift for the jet-set newlyweds in your life (hint, hint, friends and family)! Especially considering these little books can easily be customized. What a sweet and thoughtful gesture. I'm thinking about purchasing one for The Hubbs for the Hmoon. It's perfect because he's never been to where we're going and I think he'd have a blast chronicling it all.

Here you have it-- three of the many reasons Cracked Designs is one of my absolute faves! Be sure to keep up with them at the Cracked Designs blog, check out their website and visit their Etsy shop for full details, shop policies and outstanding product, of course!

Stay tuned as I stay on the prowl for more of Milwaukee's Finest!


07 June, 2009

How To: Paper Rosettes

Hey everyone! As I mentioned earlier, I am planning a cookout. It will be the first of the season for The Hubbs and I. I'm getting really excited! I had a large design block the other day while working on the invitations and I decided to stop torturing myself and work on creating some decorations. These rosettes are the first ones I've come up with. I'm not sure they'll fit in with my theme (late 50's Tiki theme! Specific-I know, but I've waited such a long time to do this...), but I LOVE paper rosettes and just had to make them!

Here's the step by step with pictures! (You'll have to excuse my pics...my dining room has weird lighting and I missed out on natural light due to rain. Boo.)

You will need:


3- 8.5 x 11 sheets of text weight paper
Double sided tape
Hole Punch
Bone Folder/Ruler
Ribbon
Scissors


First, accordion fold each sheet of paper lengthwise. I suggest 3/4" folds. The ones shown are larger in order to be more easily visible. use your bone folder to smooth out the folds and to make sure they stay straight. If you are experiencing problems, you may try marking out the 3/4" intervals. Use pencil to hide lines and marks most easily.




Then, fold the length of accordion folds in half (end to end). The result will be resemble a fan. Use a length of double sided tape to fasten the ends together, completing the fan. Repeat with the two remaining pieces.


Connect each fan using more double-sided tape. You will see your rosette starting to form. Affix the last two ends together, completing the circle.


Finally, punch a hole, thread any length of ribbon and hang. Once you get the hang of the process, try using paper of all sizes and colors for a different aesthetic. For the best result, try to stay away from "matchy-matchy" colors and opt instead for colors that complement or coordinate with one another. In the picture below, I used a gift wrap sheet (20" x 30") for the large and three sheets of 5" x 7" for the small. The gray rosette is the regular size, using three sheets of 8.5" x 11" paper. I love the way they look together! Tres chic!



Versatility makes them perfect for a number of creative uses. Print a picture or name on a circular card and attach to the middle of the rosette. Then hang from the backs of chairs for a quick and easy seating arrangement. Embellish tables by hanging one at the two front corners. I love to hang them at different lengths from the ceiling to add a little pizazz to an indoor event. Try affixing to tree branches to spice up your next outdoor soiree.

Click here to see a few more pictures of the finished product!

Etsy Love: Part Two


Hey all! I thought I'd sneak in another installment of Etsy Love! This time, I thought I'd put together a little something for the Bridesmaids. The number one complaint I get is, "I hate spending all that money for a dress I'll never wear again!" So, here are a few things I found to hopefully give all you Brides out there a little inspiration.

1. This dress is one of the prettiest ones I've seen in awhile. First of all, I love this color. Pink can make me a little crazy sometimes, but this is a good shade. The Mayflower Dress is by sarahseven. Based in Portland, Oregon sarahseven makes beautiful clothes at affordable prices. The Mayflower Dress will cost you a sensible $198.00. The dress is made from pink cotton jersey with a flower at the bust. Note the flattering pleated waist. The hem of the dress sits just above the knee (perfect length for a bridesmaid's dress, if you ask me) but can be hemmed to specifics. This clever lady also creates custom dresses in an array of colors. Visit her shop for details and full list of policies.

2. This is a comb adorned with clay flowers straight from Pheonix-based seller, debashri. Selling for $65, you will get hand crafted clay flowers (I counted 3 gardenias in full bloom and smaller stephanotis flowers) fastened securely onto a metal comb, with a silver finish. I really enjoy the Sworovski rhinestone and pearl embellishments-I fell like it adds the perfect amount of sparkle without being promish. This seller has a 7 day turnaround. Debashri also crafts custom combs, bouquets and centerpieces as well. Please contact the seller for details.

3. These Ribbon Rose appliques are from Etsy seller, Rose Garden Stitches. Shown here, in sable, these roses measure 1", 1 1/4", and 1 3/4". Included with the roses are green leaves. This seller has several packages of 3 and 6 roses. Available in any size and color, I think these would be perfect to spruce up hairpieces or sashes. Also, perfect for flower girls. The set shown is $5.00. With any seller that will be doing custom work for you, be sure to allow time for shipping. Be as clear as you can when discussing your needs before any payment is sent. Trust me, the extra communication will save both parties in the long run.

4. I love this white knitted wrap! It's sweet, feminine and delicate. This great find is from Lithuania based seller, tijusai. The best part for me is the little flower pin fastener. Made of 70% mohair and 30% acrylic, this crocheted wrap cost $40. The button fastener features a cluster of golden and pearl beads accented with a soft golden fabric. This package will arrive airmail in a registered package. Shipping time to the US is at least 2-3 weeks. and will cost you $8. What a steal!

5. This fun little handbag is a favorite item of mine. I found it on London seller, Emma Gordon's shop. All of her handbags are stylishly designed and well crafted. The "Georgia" (shown here in silver) measures 27cm w x 12cm h and will run you $65. The main body is lined in cotton. I love the stripes! The bag itself is silver satin decorated with a peach satin rose. Emma Gordon ships all handbags tissue wrapped and placed in a box. These products ship from the UK and will take awhile to get to you so be sure to leave enough time (I hate to sound like a broken record, but it is important). Contact the seller for custom orders (she makes clutches, totes and shoulder bags too and they are just as delicious!) and special pricing for more than four bags. Matching headbands are available, as well.

Enjoy! Feel free to the sellers with questions about their product lines and shop policies, they'll be happy to help!

Remember, the photos belong to the sellers to which they are associated. Please, lets not copy. It's not nice.

05 June, 2009

What to Do, What to Do?


Hi all!

I'm not at all sure why I chose the cupcakes....other than it seemed festive, what with their shiny gold wrappers and deliciously iridescent frosting (both the cake and the frosting are homemade, thank you very much!). I'm not usually one to toot my own horn, but these were just so much fun to make so...toot toot, indeed.

I'm back in the saddle here at Renegade Soiree. It's been an interesting couple of weeks.

What have I been up to? Well....

I've been getting ready for a party The Hubbs and I are hosting next week. Invites and decorations and menus, oh my! I will have it all for you here, beginning with invitations and some new ideas I have. I have a how-to for you on paper rosettes! I'm finally done with all the pictures and I intend to publish for you this afternoon!

In other news, we've started the redecorating back up and I spent last week knee deep in paint samples. I am trying to turn our house into a haven! I am waaay behind on planting and have partially abandoned it for beautifying our porch.

So, hang on....the fun starts this afternoon!

Well, Here Goes!

I've announced this Blog to my readers at "Holy, Matrimony!" I hadn't done it yet. I feel like a bad blogger because the only people I've really told about my blogs are my parents and family and a friend of mine. I think it's because my family loves everything I do and will think it's great even if it sucks. Ah, a support system.

But, in all seriousness, I've been running "Holy, Matrimony!" since January and this blog came bouncing along in April and I think its time to take this public. I'm really proud of what I've been able to pull off here. I'm excited to watch these two bloglings grow up.

You want to come along for the ride? I hope you do.

A Blog is Born!

Hey all!

I am happy to announce that I have launched another blog. Please put your hands together for "Renegade Soiree: Fabulous Parties at Any Price"! Hooray!

This new blog is meant to be about party planning in general. I really wanted to get into some of that stuff and I just couldn't justify doing it here. I really want to keep the mission of this blog as uncluttery as possible. This is the best way I can do it, I think.

Renegade Soiree can be a resource for party planning tips, ideas, shortcuts, money savers and recipes. We'll do some how-to's and stuff as well. It's still a baby blog.....but I am excited to watch it grow up! Hopefully, some of you will come along on the journey!

So Much to Say......and Do

Hey, kids! I know all has been relatively quiet the last few days, but me oh my how busy I have been!
"So, what's going on with that crazy blogger?!", you say. Well....

I have been researching a new post and furiously writing away. It's almost done and I am thrilled to say I will post it this afternoon. I've rounded up this week's Etsy finds....also comin' at 'cha this afternoon. My pictures from the last wedding I went to are almost all finished, edited and ready to be posted (in a couple of days) and I put the finishing touches on a card box I made for a friend of mine. In other news, I started some renovation on the apartment. I've been spray painting things like a mad woman and trying to get my house ready for a party we are having next week. Whew....

So, just hang on tight and away we go!

04 June, 2009

Tips For a 10K Wedding

As many of you know, The Hubbs and I tied the knot this February. On the 27th to be exact. Lately, I have been reflecting on our nuptial celebration as I help a friend with the details of hers. It was perfect! We got everything we wanted, we didn't have to grapple with other couples for the good stuff and we had the benefit of a lot of custom touches that really put our stamp on the day. The best part was, we didn't break the bank doing it. But what if it hadn't been that way? Could we have done it for, say, $10,000 and been happy with it? The answer friends, is "Of course we could have!" And here's how......

Stationery: $500
How to Save: DIY is always the way to go for me when trying to save money. Handmade invites are a perfect way to introduce your wedding to your guests. I find that people really do appreciate the fine details and the time you put in. Also, DIY invites are the only way to ensure you get exactly want you want-without having to compromise on style. Another way to go is to do an online search for small stationery companies and designers. Most are very well designed and completely affordable. The time you'll save on assembly and printing will be immeasurable as you move forward.

Where to Go:
I found a number of downloadable invite suites on the Paper Source website. I found an offset-print suite for $345 (for 75 sets that include invite, reply card, reception card and envelopes for both). With a clever little folded note (think thank you notes) the total comes to $453. Figure a bit more for shipping and postage and your still under $500.

Ceremony: $250
How to Save: If you are a church-goer, you probably have this covered. My number one money saving ceremony tip is to plan a short, sweet ceremony at a local park. Let the natural surroundings be your decor. Invite your guests to stand around you in a semi-circle while you exchange vows. It should be a short ceremony mind you, only 15-20 minutes, but ask the guests to give a personal blessing to you and your SO for the start of your new life together. Beautiful! Just make sure you can use your reception space as a backup in case of inclement weather. Go to the County Clerk's office for your license and have a friend officiate.

Where to Go: Park Permits for a Milwaukee Municipal Park will be around $150 (for 100 people in a designated picnic area). Get your marriage license for $100 and have a friend ordained online at themonastery.org.

Ceremony Flowers: $250
How to Save: This is a bit more difficult, for sure, but it gives you and your SO the chance to really get creative! If you need flowers, stick with the most important aspects (perhaps, the bridal bouquet...). You may want to consider having the bridesmaids carry a single flower (think Lillies or the stately Bird of Paradise). Several florists are more than happy to design ala carte. You can go online and search for unique alternatives to flowers for the bridal party. I'm a fan of parasols or fans in lieu of traditional bouquets. For the boutonnieres, try something non-conventional, something that fits the theme of your wedding...

Where to Go: Search Esty for the boutonnieres and bridesmaids bouquets. The vendors there are wonderful and often willing to work within your budget and personal tastes. At Wholesale Flowers and supplies, I found a ten branch bunch of dendrobium orchids for $11.60 a bunch- perfect for the bridesmaids as they glide down the aisle. I found a peacock feather boutonniere on Etsy for $8.00 each. For 5 'maids with two stems each and five groomsmen we come to only $51.60. A florist here in Milwaukee can make a bridal bouquet for $75.00 to $100.00, figure in shipping and your right under the money!

Photography: $500
How to Save: Okay, this is an important one. The easiest way is to find a photographer who will do some ala carte services. This usually means you won't pay for things like re-touching editing or photo albums. I really recommend this route though if you or someone you know is a photo editing whiz. Then, this works out really well. But I will caution you, this can really backfire if you aren't careful. Another idea is asking an especially talented friend to barter. For an alternative idea, try placing disposable cameras on all the tables at the reception and let them do the work for you!

Where to Go:

Several disposable cameras sell online for $1.75-2.50. Some disposable digital cameras sell for $9.99. With two cameras per table on 20 tables, the grand total is $399.60. Figure in tax, developing and printing and you'll still come in way under the mark!

Attire: $500
How to Save: This is my favorite part! Ok, where to begin...try the bridal collections from places like Target, J. Crew, and Ann Taylor. White House Black Market is THE place to go for chic, white dresses. In addition to that, shop sample sales, browse off the rack and do my favorite thing-buy vintage!! Etsy is another brilliant option for the stylish bride. Just remember to allow enough time for things like shipping time and re-orders.

Where to Go: It's dreamy, playful and sexy. I love this dress from White House. The best part? For me, it's the $158 price tag. Not to be outdone, I found this little ditty on Etsy for $425.

Hair and Makeup: $200
How to Save: Shop around! This will save you A LOT of money! Instead of getting a complete style from the professionals, try a blow out or a fab down-do to for all the drama without the moolah. Then, get your makeup done professionally.

Where to Go: I got my hair done here in Milwaukee at Hairy's Hair Bar for around $75. My stylist was knowledgeable, friendly, and fun! I loved her! My makeup was done by Lindsay Williams. She's unbelievable! I established an instant rapport with her and I felt like she knew my face almost better than I do and she wasn't afraid to tell me when she thought my ideas were a little bit silly. She was gentle with me about my insecurities and I respond really well to that. I barely squeaked by under $200, but I made it...

Videography: $300
How to Save: Although, I am not a big fan of wedding videography, I don't suggest giving it up entirely, if it's something you really want. That said, this might be difficult, but if you shop around I think you'll be able to do it. I suggest negotiating a daytime "ceremony only" package. You might also consider asking a friend to set up a camera for you.
Where to Go: I found a film student who would shoot the ceremony and part of the reception for around $300.

Reception: $5000

Are you ready for my best piece of advice? Forget convention! Please, consider dumping the tried and true Saturday night sit down, huh? Instead how about a chic party at a champagne bar? Or a Friday night soiree? Caterers and reception sites are usually wonderful at working with your budget and getting you what you want.

Where to Go: Milwaukee Champagne Bar Cuvee is the perfect place for a swanky fete at an absolutely mind blowing locale. When The Hubbs and I checked the place out, they offered it to us on a Friday night for just short of $2000. We considered doing heavy hors d oeuvres and we received a quote for $3000. The Astor Hotel gave us the Grand Ballroom on a Friday night for $3000 food and $750 bar. With gratuity and tax, we were right within $5000. A local Milwaukee restaurant on hip Jefferson Street would cater a three course meal with beer, wine and soda for about $60 a person.

Reception Decor: $325

How to Save: One of my favorite reception centerpieces is tea lights and candles on mirror tiles. Try using mis-matched candles of all sizes and heights and arrange them on your tables. Add lose petals at the base of the candles to punch up the romance. Not so much your thing? Try bulk flowers in mis-matched vases from your family and friends. Flowers that are naturally in season during the season of your wedding will be cheaper.

Where to Go: Using the flower website mentioned above, I was able to get bunches of flowers for between $3.95 and $11.60. The greenery bunches were all around $3.95. If you use containers you already have and borrow some from friends, coming in at $325 is a cinch. Candles are so affordable, it's amazing! At quickcandles.com, you can easily find a set of 144 votive candles for $79.99 A set of 72 candles is only $39.99. Bags of loose petals range between $5-10.

Reception Music: $300
How to Save: I really think that this one is hard to do for so little, but you can try. Try to find a DJ that will combine the ceremony and reception. For live music, consider hiring an ensemble from a local college for the ceremony and then hook up your ipod or itunes. Just be sure to have tons of great music and enough variety to get everyone dancing!

Where to Go: I found a string trio willing to play the ceremony for $300. When employing live music, always be certain to hear them live before signing or paying for anything.

Wedding Cake: $225
How to Save: First, scale down the size of your cake. You can order a custom sheet cake from upscale grocery stores or local bakeries for the cake cutting. But, the trends are changing...I love dessert bars! Try cupcakes, tarts, tortes, cookies or assorted candies. Serve the cookies and candies in assorted jars. Use cake stands of varying heights to add some levels.

Where to Go: A bakery here in Milwaukee will sell cupcakes for about $15-18 per dozen. Tarts and cookies will vary by bakery, but if you can, you may want to enlist the help of some of your more Creative friends. One of the more upscale grocery stores has double layer cakes available for $25-40 dollars. All very beautifully decorated to boot! With a cake at $40 and 10 dozen cupcakes at $15 per dozen we come to a grand total of $190. You'd still be able to add other sweets to round out your bar!

Favors: $40
How to Save: I suggest the handmade route, here. The possibilities are endless! If a helpful friend has a killer recipe for your favorite snack, why not make some and bag it for your guests to enjoy? I think recipes are a great way to honor a friend or family member that cannot celebrate with you. My Grandma made these killer anise flavored cookies. I LOVED them all my life. I think I would have made some and then included her recipe. Not a foodie? CD's, saplings and flower seeds are some of my favorite things.

Where to Go: You can get 100 clear favor bags for $15. One hundred recipe cards are available at several kitchen supply stores for around $20. I suggest handwriting the recipe if you can. A handwritten touch is always personal and never goes out of style.

GRAND TOTAL: $8090!!Italic
That leaves $1900 for extras. This will give you the ability to amp up the aspects that you really love! For me, I would add more to the reception music and the photography. But that's just me. Perhaps the best thing to do would be to put that $1900 back in your savings account...