Countdown to Christmas: Garland Wreath Tutorial

I've been making these little wreaths for a couple years now and it just dawned on me to publish this tutorial.  They're super cute, super festive, and super easy!




You'll need:

Wreath form (I used an embroidery hoop, but have had the same success with wire and styrofoam as well)
2 lengths of garland (this took 2-9 foot lengths, so use your best judgement)
assorted wreath sprays, jazzicles and other sparkly things
wire
wire cutters
scissors



1.  Wrap it up. Wind the end of your garland through your form and wire to fasten (if you're using a styrofoam form, wrap the end around once and secure with a pin).  I stayed away from using traditional adhesives because I like to swap out garlands and cut down on waste.  Then, wind the garland around the form, bunching from time to time to achieve the desired look (I like a fluffy wreath, so I bunch quite a bit). Wind the other end through the form to finish (fasten with pins for styrofoam).  You'll be finished when the form is completely hidden from view.



2.  Go Full Glitz.  Lay out your embellishments.  Don't be afraid to try a few things out before you commit.  Design your little heart out.  Once you've come up with something you love, lay it out in the desired position on your wreath.


3.  Pin it down.  Secure to wreath with wire.  Floral wires and other small guage wires are ideal because they are both easy to work with and easy to hide.  I came up with two options I loved so I made sure to make them interchangeable.


4. Enjoy!

See...easy and fabulous! 

Tutorial: Candlestick Cake Stands

Finally!! So cute!  Ooh, before I forget, you'll have to excuse the photos.  My camera was being finicky so I had to take my snappies with my phone.  That being said, here we go!

 You will need:
 - candlesticks
-  primer
 - spray paint
 - plates
 - hot glue gun & glue

1. Spray paint those 'sticks!  I've found that wooden or metal candlesticks work best, but just about anything will work.  If I make a set that need to travel, wooden candlesticks are the best bet for me.  A word on spray painting: try to make long, even passes with the spray from 6-10 inches from the object.  This will cut down on bubbling, uneven cover and streaking.  I usually use a primer, because I like my colors to be as bright and true as possible. Make sure to let the 'sticks dry between coats.

2. Prepare your plates! For this particular project, I used plastic plates.  I needed something that looks great, is lightweight and doesn't look overly formal.  Ceramic, china, and glass plates would work just as well, though.  Just make sure the weight of the plate is enough to balance out the weight of the candlestick.  Just common sense, here.  Now, I know I've said this a thousand times but once more couldn't hurt: Consider letting go of your 'matchy-matchy' spirit.  Coordinating colors and patterns will do the trick and give you the sophisticated look you're going for without looking stuffy.

3.  Glue, baby, glue!  After letting the gun warm up a bit, I usually start by putting glue into the hole of my candlestick.  It tends to level out the top of the candlestick while providing a little extra stability.  Once you've filled the center, it's time to create an evenly applied area of glue to which your plate can adhere. Center your pate above the candlestick.  Press your plate onto the glue and hold pressure for about 30 seconds.  This will help set the bond.  Let the glue dry completely before inspecting your work.  Remember to check for and remove pesky hot glue strings. 

  4.  Test it out!  Basically, you want to look for flaws.  Apply some pressure to the edges of your plate to test the glue bond.  Alternate pressure to test for weak spots.  Of course, you'll need to put something on your cake stand to gauge the overall sturdiness.  Once you're satisfied, you can always reheat your gun and use the heated metal tip to smooth out the glue. 

5.  Enjoy!  You've just made something ridiculously cute!  Gather your besties and throw some cute food on those babies.  Show off your handiwork a little bit.

Stay tuned for super cute pics of the stands as they will be featured in my next party design.

Kisses!
E

You Asked For It: Beachy Keen

Hey gang!  Several of you have asked for more pictures of Beachy Keen.  Here you go, dolls. Some of our favorite shots from the event!

This is what happens when designers are too busy enjoying themselves to set up every shot.  I love this picture for it's haphazardly "lived in" look.

 I wanted a change from cupcakes or cake pops, so I opted for doughnut holes.  I think they look like little beach balls. 

Daisies!  Such a great touch.

I love this picture!  This is Allison's adorable niece, giving us her stamp of approval.  Pretty stinkin' cute, right? 

Kisses,

E

Living Authentically: Dealing With Disappointment

Another post bringing you small business realness!  I wish I could share the details with you, but since there are a few other people involved, I'll just give you the basics for now.  Oh, also.  Since I didn't think you wanted to see pictures of me looking wistfully out of a window at the rain, I thought I'd let the GoldiPets telegraph my emotional journey for you! xoxo-E

'Disappointment' as portrayed by Rosemarie Paisley.

For the last couple of weeks, I have been working extremely hard on a project.  It was more of a concept or expansion  project than a design project.  I poured lots of extra hours into it and, even more importantly, I poured a lot of emotion into it.  I sketched, I outlined, I worked and reworked, I budgeted, re-budgeted...you get the idea.  After two really positive meetings (one over the phone and one in person) and a number of positive e-mails, I really thought this was to be the break I'd been looking for.  After we'd scheduled our next meeting, I left feeling amazing!  I felt brilliant, untouchable, energized and a million other things.  I immediately got started on the homework we'd scheduled for ourselves and by the next morning I had some results to share....and I didn't hear anything.  All day.  I felt like something was off.  Then, at 11:00p, I finally saw the e-mail.  It was not good.  Plans had changed and I found myself unceremoniously cut out. I was reeling.  I immediately thought of all the ideas I'd given so freely over which I would now have very little ownership.  All the plans I'd shared about my own brand. I'll admit, I had a good cry.  A whole new wave of emotion washed over me as I began to deal with this new information.  Above everything, I was so heartbroken and disappointed.

'Reflection' featuring Roxie Mae.

I took the evening to marinate in my crankiness and look for support from The Hubbs.  Sadly, his helpful, rational input just made everything worse, so I said, "Just let me have my feelings!"  All in all, I handled it pretty well...  The next day, after I'd had some perspective and more chats with Hubbs and a couple friends, what was said started to make lots of sense.  So, I reevaluated and I was able to pull out some positive points:

1.  Working on a new challenge gave me the chance to clearly lay out some goals that had otherwise been a little vague.  I got to see the light at the end of the tunnel, friends!

2.  I had the chance to have a frank discussion with The Hubbs about what we are and are not willing to commit to, both in terms of working relationships and fiscal responsibility.

3.  I have so much more to share with you and now I have a plan on how to do that!

4.  Baby's got some small business skillz (yes, with a 'z'), yo.  Whew! What a load off!

Disappointment is such a dirty word, isn't it?  We're not encouraged to inflict it on other people and we spend an immeasurable amount of time avoiding it ourselves.  And when it does happen to us, we're supposed to "suck it up", "get over it" and realize, "hey, it could be worse".  Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying one should wallow in their misfortune to the extent that it clouds one's judgement.  I just think it's super important to allow yourself time to mourn your lost opportunity.  Then, once your feelings are clearer, you can pull out all the things you've learned and move forward stronger and better equipped to handle the next challenge.

'Hopeful Optimism' by Rosemarie Paisley.

In case you're wondering, her little snout is covered in pollen from devouring several flowers.  She may be a flower thief, but she's a great emotion model!!

File This Under "Holy, Cow!": Liebster Blogging Award

So, yesterday I received a tweet letting me know that my friend Sun Torke had nominated me for a Liebster Blogging Award!  This award is meant for blogs that you love, that mean something to you.  This award is also intended for rising star blogs with a smaller readership.  Yay, Goldiblog! Nominees must answer 11 questions about themselves, add 11 facts about themselves, create 11 new questions and nominate 11 new blogs.  Then you link up with the person that nominated you.  Easy peasy!

 My friend Sun, as you know, writes for Eat. Host. Run. Style.  You'll remember her for the great post she did here!  Sun's post remains one of the most read on this blog! This is one of my favorite fitness blogs to read.  She makes fitness fun and accessible.  I never feel like I'm doing something wrong or like I should be ashamed of myself for not doing more, faster.  Or better.  Just a really great read.  Superb recipes, too!

Here goes!

Sun's questions for me, are:

1. Why did you decide to start blogging?  I love parties and event design.  This blog started as a way for me to exchange ideas with people all over the world.  I really wanted this space to be an honest chronicle of my journey as an owner of a creatively based business as well as a testament to all the amazing things that inspire us. 
2. How did you decide on your blog's name? This blog began as a wedding blog, but began to evolve as my business model evolved.  As Goldiluxe Events became busier, I wanted it to reflect my vision for my company.  I can look at it and be instantly reminded of what I'm aiming to do.
3. What are your top five favorite foods? Miso soup, spaghetti squash, pancakes, rainier cherries, and spinach fritata.
4. If you could have any superpower, what would it be? I would love the ability to stop time.
5. What's the best gift you ever received? When I was in my very early 20s and moving into my first house with my best friend at the time, my grandma gave me a vacuum.  It made me feel so grown up, like my family finally saw me as a capable, responsible adult.  I was so happy, I burst into tears.
   
   
6. Are there any current style trends that make you cringe? Yes.  Leggings as pants, rompers, and those headbands clearly inspired by Native American headdresses.  Cultural appropriation just isn't cute.
7. Why do you workout and what's your current routine? I love working out because it focuses and clears my mind, relieves my stress and makes me feel strong.  I love being kind to myself.
8. Who is your role model? My Mom and Dad. They have done and given everything to give me every opportunity I could ever want.  I also look up to anyone who lives their life boldly, without fear and without regret.
9. What accomplishment are you most proud of? Graduating college. I learned so much in and out of the classroom.
10. If you could participate in any Olympic sport, which would you pick? Figure skating.  Definitely.  Sparkly outfits, big hair, dancing....it's like they created a sport just for me.
11. Where would you like to travel next? Colorado next spring and Japan for my birthday.
 

Now, for my 11 fun facts:

--> I read the Hunger Games trilogy in one weekend.  All three books.  One weekend.  It was awesome. 

--> I am obsessed with my Japanese photo sharing app, Pick.  I heard about it from a bloggy friend and it's been a great way to help me learn Japanese.  

See how cute it makes your pictures?! Couldn't you just choke on the whimsy?

--> I'm teaching myself Japanese.  It's super hard, but really rewarding.

--> I have a really visceral reaction to fonts.  I can't stand Comic Sans, Papyrus, Vivaldi or any font that looks like "kid" handwriting...I shudder to think.

--> With the exception of Law & Order: Los Angeles, I have not met a cop show I don't like.

--> I love to make up words.  So far my favorite is "romantiplans"

--> I would rather not eat or drink during an outing if it means I don't have to use a public restroom.

--> I want to have All The Antiques.

See?  I would have all of the everything if I could.  Also, more cuteness from Pick.

--> I love brunch.

--> I dislike Bloody Marys and I hate when they are listed as "Bloodies" on menus.

--> The meaner someone is to me; the nicer I am to them.  I like to see how mad they get when they can't get a reaction from me.

My 11 questions:
1.  What do you think is your best personality trait?
2.  When was the last time you laughed so hard your sides hurt?
3.  If you could live in any city in the world, which one would you choose and why? 
4.  What is your least favorite color combination?
5.  What is your favorite way to celebrate an accomplishment?
6.  How do you use social media to enhance your blogging life?
7.  Would you rather host a dinner party or contribute to one at someone else's home?
8.  What is your favorite recipe?
9.  If you could appear on any reality show, which would you choose?
10. What is the one thing in your beauty routine you could not live without?
11.  What is your favorite teen movie?

My nominations are:

Allison C Beilke: Illustrator, Artist

AC!

Lauren Bonk

Cream City Green

I'm afraid I can't quite make eleven.  All the smaller blogs I read have already been nominated.  I'll have to scour my blog roll, I know there are so many great bloggers out there!

A big, huge thanks to Sun for the nom.  I'm so grateful!

 

Living Authentically: If You Don't Blog It, Did it Really Happen?

I have written and rewritten this post at least 10 times.  It's been a reflective experience and I think I am finally to the place where this post makes sense.  

Wow, guys.  Have I had a hectic few weeks!  As most of you know, Country Wedding was on July 14th.  By all accounts, it was a success!  The set up was smooth, the couple loved it, and I made it into my bridesmaid's dress and down the aisle on time.  Best of all, I was surrounded by friends. Beautiful, wonderful, silly, zany friends.  It was literally the best weekend I have had in an immeasurable amount of time.  The only downside was, I keep feeling like I was missing something.  There were photos I didn't take, people I didn't tag, tweets missed, posts left untyped.  The whole time I was enjoying this blissful celebration of love, I found myself feeling guilty.  Guilty for not sharing it with all of you.  Can you believe?!  That got me thinking and asking myself a lot of important questions: When did social media become more important than our social lives?  Are you, my wonderfully loyal and amazingly talented readers entitled to the most precious parts of my life?  Where is the line?

A few of the aforementioned friends in a blurry picture taken in the midst of a belly laugh.

I find I still don't have the answers.  For instance, I did manage to snap this amazing picture of my friends during their first dance as husband as wife.  The lighting, their faces, guests looking on lovingly...le sigh.  As I jumped to post the picture to Instagram, I thought to myself, "Is this really my moment to share?"  I agonized over that little picture, desperately wanting to share with you the gravity and joy of the experience I was having, but ultimately, I decided to save it.  To protect that delicious little morsel from the interwebs.

As a blogger, I know these are not concepts I ponder alone.  I have read numerous posts from smart, accomplished women sharing their dilemmas and offering their advice. I often see myself in their words. There are many schools of thought...all of them valuable.  I have always chosen transparency for Goldiluxe, even when my truth is a bit dark.  I've never once regretted that choice. Maybe I'm feeling like I've opened up a floodgate?  Like now that we've established such honesty, I'm having trouble rebuilding my boundaries? Does that make sense?

 Blooms from my ultra sweet hubby.

I won't bore you with the gory details, but I will say that for me, this summer has been a season of reevaluation. After weeks of feeling guilty, I realized (with the support of some really great friends) that it is okay for me to take a step back, to get my shizz in order and enjoy myself once in awhile.  That I am still a devoted wife, a talented designer and a driven business woman, even if I don't blog everyday.  Even if I'm not tweeting ad nauseum.  Whew!  What a load off, amiright?!

 I want to live my life fully, unbound by the pressures of social media. So what does that mean for this space?  It means that I'll still be honest with you, I still may use a few naughty words here and there, I still may tell you more than you want to know sometimes.  You'll still see all the things you're used to seeing around here.  What this means is that I am giving myself permission to keep some of my moments, my treasures, my life to myself.  To immerse myself in those moments and experiences as they happen.  To enjoy my loved ones when they are standing right in front of me.  I encourage you to do the same.

Tell, me.  How do you cope when the pressures of social media become too much?

Luxe Life: Country Wedding in the City

Hello there!
I am finally back and posting away!  I figured that once I posted a list of upcoming posts, I'd be motivated to step it up and get back on track...I was not.  Boo hiss on me.

But!  As promised, I give you the highlights from Country Wedding!

I wanted to start with the card box.  We made it out of an antique cosmetics case, previously owned by the bride's grandma.  I loved it.  We had to weight it a bit and rig it to stay open, but it worked perfectly.  It was one of my favorite touches!

 

Next up, we have a couple shots of the centerpieces.  As I said before, we collected LOTS of Mason Jars.  My goal was to have so many jars that we could use them as vases and candle holders. I couldn't find table card holders that were visually pleasing as well as right for the type of centerpiece, so I made them.  I chose a mid gauge wire and The Hubbs helped me coil one end...well, maybe I should make a tutorial for you...they were super easy and looked amazing! I also wanted to point out our little animal friends. I wanted to create the feeling of being in someone's home, sort of "housewife chic", if you will.  I know that we were flirting with kitsch here, but for this event it totally worked, our couple loved it! 

Moss letters.  So cute, I can't stand it. These were sooo fun to make.  I wouldn't recommend starting them at 2am, but what else is there to do when one can't sleep?  We tied them with yarn in the wedding colors and affixed them to the front doors of the venue.  Next time, I think I'd make them slightly larger.  They'd pop a little more, I think.

 

The autograph tree.  This just melts my heart each time I look at it.  Allison did such a great job!  Behind it are framed picture of the parents.  This was something the couple wanted to include, what a sweet touch!  I love the idea of honoring those that went before.  I wish you could see the pictures up close.  So.  stinking.  cute.  And my 'punny' little chalkboard.  I LOVED making these chalkboards!  I had so much fun challenging myself to make each one unique.  This one is maybe my favorite.  More chalkboard pictures to come.

Ah, the pie table!  This turned out really well.  I'm still in lurve with our supah cute banner! We've discussed it before, but I really wanted you to see it in action.  You can also get a good look at the stands I made.  I am so proud of them!

The venue had this adorable little patio area and as soon as I saw it, I knew I wanted to turn it into a lounge area.  We had so many ideas, tiki torches, bistro lights, candles...it was a really hard space to edit.  But in the end, we opted for a sweet little lounge feel with flower arrangements, oodles of warm candle light and custom pillows.  I'll admit, the pillows were a bit of a eleventh hour kind of thing, but they were really fun to make.  They just look so cute!

There you have it, folks!  Country Wedding in a nutshell!  This was such a touching event and we are so grateful to be part of it.  If you want more, you should pop over to our Facebook page and check out our Country Wedding Album.

In Which I Remember How To Blog

Hello, darlings!
I have been away for so long and I've missed you all terribly.  I've been cray-cray busy, but now that the madness has subsided a bit, I am back in the saddle, ready to charm you with my sweet musings once again!  Seriously, y'all, I have a lot coming up for you.  Here are a few of the highlights!

             Tutorials:
                   candlestick cake stands
                    paper flowers
                   chalkboards
             LOTS of reader questions
             Pictures of Country Wedding (!!)



I hope this will be enough to get me out of the doghouse.  I am picking up the photos from Country Wedding tonight and I am soooo excited!  I can't wait to share!

Sneaky Peeky: Country Wedding in the City

Hey, cupcakes!  We are down to the final days before Country Wedding.  I am so excited to bring another event, a year in the planning, to life.  I always get such a sweet sense of accomplishment when I see my couple's happy faces.  I thought I'd let you catch a glimpse of things as they are being finished.  Here we go!

These adorable cake stands were dangerously easy to create.  These will go on the sweets table we've designed.  Again, we've gone for a country chic look, full of rustic elements given a Technicolor twist.  I'm thinking that, if they are as big a hit with y'all as they were with us, I might do a quick little tutorial.  I haven't done one here for awhile and I'm kind of missing them.  This might be the perfect item to DIY. 

This, I totally love.  We love banners, here at Goldiluxe and this one is no exception.  As I mentioned before, I asked Allison to customize some of her ah-mah-zing fabrics to fit Country Wedding.  For my part, I hand-cut all the letters and a cute embellishment.  I would love to show it all to you, but it would ruin the surprise for the guests, so you'll have to wait.

Stay tuned this week for more Country Wedding teasers! 

Under the Glitz: Country Wedding

I've been searching for a way to give you a piece of our process without sharing drawings or any specific details that might spoil it for the guests.  I also think it's important for prospective clients and readers to catch a glimpse behind the gilded curtain, so to speak.  To really get a sense of what it takes to pull a Goldiluxe event together.  So, I thought a new segment was is order.  I give you: Under the Glitz.  The title's in flux, so sue me.  Here we go!

Country Wedding is proving to be one of the most exciting events I've worked on.  I mean, not only is it for a dear friend of mine, I'm also a bridesmaid!  We are having so much fun designing this wedding, I thought you might like to know how it's going:

It's coming together, y'all!  Lets take a look at what we've got, shall we?

First up is a sneak peek of some of Allison's fabric customized for Country Wedding.  I had the idea that we should use some of her amazing fabrics and of course Allison was able to pull it off.  It's perfect.  I can't wait to show you what we're doing with it...

Underneath that, we've got some picture frames getting Goldified!  Between my stash and the generosity of GoldiFriend, Kate Funk, we were able to snag lots of fab frames for zero coin.  We love to scavenge and bargain.  It's a great chance for us to stretch our imaginations and use a little ingenuity.  It may take longer than sourcing ready-made, but we think the extra effort to stick within budget means more to our couples. We're really turning up the rusticity of this event and I really wanted to bring in some elements of home decor, but re-imagined to fit our 'rustic-chic' mood.  The frames have been painted and are now awaiting their finishing touches.  It's gonna be KYOOT!

Next, I've got a stockpile of amazing vintage mason jars.  I have been scouting antique stores for months to find the perfect ones!  Because the Mason Jar is an outrageously popular collector's item, they are quite pricey and can be really cost-prohibitive.  So, to compensate, we've filled in with newer and reclaimed jars.  We've saved our couple a lot of money, but they didn't have to compromise on style.  The stately little jars will be popping up all over the event, so stay tuned! 

I wish I could tell you more about the photo in the middle.  I really do.  But, if I talk it may give away too much...so all I'll say is that we will not be without the perfect July accessory.

The final picture in our little group is part of my latest haul from my favorite antique hunting ground, Antiques on Second.  They literally have everything.  I had a lot of luck there last time, so much luck in fact I can't show you the best parts.  Just know Country Wedding is chock full of charming vintage touches that enhance the rustic gorgeousness of the venue.  Classy, not kitschy, y'all!

There you have it!  A peek at what it takes to create the quintessential Goldiluxe event. 
Any questions about the process?  We'd love to chat with you!  Leave your questions in the comments or e-mail me at: goldiluxeevents@gmail.com.

Short and Sweet: Short Dresses That Pack a Punch

With summer in high gear, I've been getting lots of letters from you about showcasing some fun, flirty dresses fit for you're amazing affairs.  It seems you're getting married in Vegas, in gardens, museums, art galleries and posh, upscale dining establishments.  In order to give you some variety, I went to three of my favorite stores to round up, what I think, are really great options to get you started!
And away, we go!

 Nordstrom:

1.  First up, we have this little number from Sue Wong.  I am a huge fan of this beige, embellished illusion bodice dress.  At $398, it's kind of a steal.

2.  This is the Telago dress from one of my favorites, Ted Baker.  I love the high neck (usually, not so much) and the delicate detail really does bring it home for me.  This one will run you a little more, $825.  I think it'd be worth it, though, to tell you the truth.

3.  Finally, I found this sweet little diddy from Rachel Zoe.  Now, if you know me, you know I'm not a huge fan of Rachel Zoe's line.  It's just not me, but I think this short, metallic brocade dress is super charming.  It's got a bit of a retro vine to which I am drawn.




BHLDN                

1.  I love the Comme Il Faut dress from Hitherto.  I am literally choking on all the fab.  One of you wrote in about a retro-inspired reception at a supper club.  Let me say it again.  I LOVE that idea.  I think it's going to be fabulous.  And, please, consider this dress.  At $800, it's a pretty great deal.

2.  This is the Arabesque dress from Yoana Baraschi.  I love everything about this dress, y'all.  I think the detail is phenomenal.  I haven't seen a lot of short wedding dresses quite like this.  I really appreciate the evening gown feel it brings.  Three quarter sleeves.  Yes.  This beauty comes in at $300, proving great style doesn't have to put you in the poorhouse.

3.  Say hello to Persephone, by Tracy Reese.  I am a huge Tracy Reese fan.  This dress is deliciously elegant without so much as a hint of pompous excess.  Those bell sleeves are adorable!  A word, dolls.  Shift dresses can be a bit tricky.  If you have a BHLDN near you, try this baby on.  You don't want to have a $400 disaster on your hands.

J. Crew

1.  I love this dress.  I am so glad that the peplum is back.  I really am.  I love how cute and 50's it is. The Cha-Cha dress has an adorable cut out in the back.  Can't you just see this at a chic gallery wedding.  I'm seeing simple, classic lines with pops of bright colors. 

2.  A great, little embroidered feather dress.  Love it.  Love the length, love the feathers, love it all.  You should check out the sweet embroidered bib.  It's pretty great. 

I hope these little cuties have given you all something to think about.  Have something to say?  Leave it in the comments!

You Asked For It: Bachelorette Blowout

Helurr!  I'm so happy to be back!  June has been totally cray-cray around here (so many posts to come) and I'm afraid I've neglected you.  On to today's topic!

I just had the pleasure of organizing (along with a couple of my fave ladies) and attending one of the best bachelorette parties ever!  I mean we had a blast together.  It was so great in fact, I think I am still riding pretty high, three days later.  So, in an attempt to carry this great feeling with me a little longer, I thought I might answer some of your bach party-related inquiries.  Enjoy!

 Cute, glittery clutches helped set the stage for our glitzy party!

Are x-rated inflatables still a thing for bachlorette parties?!  How do I tell my girls I don't want a dirty, peenie-infested, trashy party without hurting their feelings?
Well, doll, I hate to tell you but adult inflatables still seem to be all the rage in most of your garden variety parties.  I know.  I don't get it, either.  I was right where you're at, sister.  Luckily, my maids knew I wasn't that kind of girl so I had it pretty easy.  Honesty is always the best policy.  Just be firm, candid and tactful with your 'maids and they'll understand.  They love you and just want to send you down to matrimonytown in style.  So, tell them what that means to you. 

How much input should the bride have about her party?  We want to surprise her, but we don't want to choose the wrong thing...so, what can we do?
I think the best way to include the bride without giving away the farm is to have her make a list of some of her favorite places.  I mean, have her pick her top fives or something.  Restaurants, bars, clubs, destinations, landmarks...you get it.  Now you have a bunch of bride-approved spots, but you still get to surprise her with a fun, unique party she'll remember for a lifetime.

 Hello Kitty rings and frosty bevvies helped kick this bach party into high gear!

We're going to din din, them out on the town.  We still want to incorporate some games.  When is the best time?  What games should we play?
I think the best time for games is during dinner.  You've all got some drinks, maybe a starter or two and best of all, everyone is excited for the festivities to start.  I also suggest limiting the games to one, maybe two.  As for what to play?  My all time, favorite game to play is: Bachelorette Party Mad-libs.   It's cute, sassy and good for a lot of laughs.

Any thoughts on going to strippers?
Yes.  Don't.  I don't care for strippers, personally.  I think bach parties should be about sending your friend into married life with some class and grace.  Not chasing after peenies and asking strange men to buy you drinks.  But, to each their own, I suppose. 

I want to go out of town on a girl's weekend.  I keep imagining us flitting around the city in cute dresses.  Is that to much to ask of my bridesmaids, financially speaking?
Ask them.  Tell them what you're thinking and ask them how they feel.  If you are located near a major city, could you drive there or take the train?  This could eliminate airfare and take some of the burden off your guests.  If not, perhaps you could think of other ways to lighten the money load...pay part of the hotel bill?  Take them out to dinner?  Pick up part of the tab?  Bottom line: Don't tell them you want to go out of town and then expect them to foot the entire bill.  It's not nice. 

You guys asked some great questions!  Y'all are so smart.  I hope this quick little roundup will help you navigate the dark and glittery waters of bachelorette party planning.  Have fun, cupcakes!

Did I miss something?  wanna put your two cents in?  Feel free to leave it in the comments!

Luxe Life: Fractured Fairytale

Hey, gang!
On May 19th, we honored a very dear friend of mine with a bridal shower.  Allison actually suggested the 'ironic princess' theme to me and Fractured Fairytale was born.  We pinned our stylish little hearts out and filled our pinboard with the best, non-vom inducing princess inspiration the Internet had to offer.  If you ask me, it turned out pretty great!

What do you think?

Gah!  So cute!  I love those golden deer.  When Allison showed them to me I knew they'd be perfect.  Also, if you'll notice, you can see the little vase in the background is a tree trunk.

To add a little extra pizazz, we framed one of the invites we had and set it up at the end of the food station.  That big, diamond is a paperweight I have.  At home, it sits on my desk, glittering happily at all who walk by.  And besides, you can't have a princess party without a giant diamond, can you?

Speaking of which, instead of doing traditional favors, we thought it would be cute to hand out enchanted cocktail rings.  It was a huge success!  We made adorable favor tags, handed a few out as prizes for Charise-themed games, and made sure everyone got one before the party ended.  Ooh, also, you can see the prize ribbon we made for Charise to wear.  We have been bored with generic party accessories for awhile now, espesh where tiaras and sashes are concerned.  So, we took matters into our own hands and have been crafting cute things like this!  Goldiluxe honorees should feel special and  celebrated!

 

We cut up strips of fancy paper, rounded up our prettiest pens and encouraged the guests to write a short note of encouragement, a sweet wish or a piece of valuable advice.  Then we added all the wishes to a little pouch for the lovebirds to read before the wedding.  Just a little extra love for the big day!

Here's a close up on some of our signage.  You can also see another one of our little tableau.  Those vases are killing me! So dang cute!

Our darling bride wanted a fun, low key bridal shower with plenty of pizzazz.  I think we accomplished that!  We showered her with handmade, vintage or gently-used gifts (a story for another post, I think), dined on yummy, home-cooked food and sipped on cocktails from the mimosa bar. 

For more Fractured Fairytale cuteness, visit our Facebook photo album!