tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4665204490800950782024-03-12T18:55:42.929-06:00Bleu Bird DesignAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-55576297428914953142014-02-01T20:21:00.000-07:002014-02-01T20:21:36.451-07:00Happy Valentine's Day! Holidays to avoid when getting married.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoNO2XqxHns/Uu2hJLNmFVI/AAAAAAAABX4/k9E45Xchjnw/s1600/valentines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoNO2XqxHns/Uu2hJLNmFVI/AAAAAAAABX4/k9E45Xchjnw/s1600/valentines.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's February and you all know what that means! Valentine's Day! I have never been a big fan of Valentine's Day. Probably too many years spent in retail floral! Working 24 hours straight, making bouquets of pink and red roses is enough to make anybody sour on the holiday. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Speaking of holidays, I thought I'd mention a few holidays to avoid, (from a floral stand point), when selecting a wedding date. Really, any big holiday that is typically associated with flowers should be avoided. Valentine's Day and Mothers Day are the two biggies that jump to my mind. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Both of these holidays are HUGE for florists and wholesalers. The whole supply and demand thing makes it difficult and expensive for a bride to get an entire wedding of the flowers she wants at a reasonable price. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In the weeks leading up to and following these holidays, cost of goods jump about 15% minimum for florists. Cost of goods on the day prior to the holiday and the day of can double! Just imagine paying twice as much for your wedding flowers! YIKES! Even 15% can wreck havoc on your budget! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you plan on using a retail florist, (as opposed to someone like myself who specializes in weddings and parties), consider how busy they are during these holidays. Having your wedding at the same time as all of the hundreds of bouquets and deliveries that need to be made amps up their stress a lot! Trust me - I've been there! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last but not least, consider again supply and demand. Many wholesalers and growers <u>sell out</u> of flowers: like roses on Valentine's Day. Florists usually order their flowers a year - yep - 1 YEAR prior to Valentine's Day because of the increased demand. The same is true for Mother's Day. Spring time flowers are in high demand and orders to growers and wholesalers are placed WELL in advance of the holiday. All this means limited availability and higher prices for brides. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you are unable to avoid these dates, just be aware of the price increases and meet with your florist as soon as you can to get your order to the wholesaler with plenty of time to ensure you get the flowers you want. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Other holidays that you may want to be wary of, Thanksgiving and Christmas. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Think of all those lovely centerpieces! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-47010574547606899182014-02-01T17:40:00.001-07:002014-02-01T17:41:35.062-07:00Using Succulents in Your Wedding Flower DesignAlmost every time I finish a wedding bouquet I step back and look at it and think, "of all the bridal bouquets I have done THIS is my favorite!" It happened again a few months ago.<br />
This fall I met with Courtney, her fiancé, mother, and mother-in -law to be. Courtney chose sage green, navy blue and aubergine for her colors. The setting for her wedding reception was a barn. She wanted casual rustic look for her flowers. Nothing fussy. While browsing through photographs of flowers ideas the mother-in-law mentioned how much she liked the use of succulents in weddings. Courtney had no idea what a succulent was. As I was searching for photos of succulents, Courtney pulled out her phone showed me a photo of a bouquet she loved. Guess what? It had succulents! I love it when the bride and the mother-in-law, (or mother for that matter), agree on things. It makes my job so much easier!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4d8Ba1Duylk/UuV43U68mkI/AAAAAAAABAA/v4f3Za3RU5Q/s1600/093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4d8Ba1Duylk/UuV43U68mkI/AAAAAAAABAA/v4f3Za3RU5Q/s1600/093.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is what we came up with for the bridal bouquet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<span id="goog_2087787847"></span><span id="goog_2087787848"></span></div>
<span id="goog_764960458"></span><span id="goog_764960459"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_764960459"><span id="goog_73123391"></span><span id="goog_73123392"></span></span><br /></div>
<span id="goog_764960459">
</span>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<u>What IS a succulent?</u><br />
A succulent is a plant that has thick, fleshy leaves/petals that store water. You can find succulents in many interesting shapes and colors which make them a fun and unique addition to your floral designs. Succulents are typically found in arid environments and are quite hardy - which makes them perfect for wedding bouquets and centerpieces. You can even remove the succulents from your bouquet and "plant" them to use them as décor in your home!<br />
The down side to using succulents are:<br />
1. Because they do store water they are heavy, so they aren't great for boutonnieres or pin on corsages. Also, they make your bouquet heavy. <br />
2. Depending on which succulents you use and their size, they can be a little pricey.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nXpIE5I-stc/UuV9KF4hIII/AAAAAAAABAs/63F6UrygHxo/s1600/110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nXpIE5I-stc/UuV9KF4hIII/AAAAAAAABAs/63F6UrygHxo/s1600/110.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridesmaids bouquets on top. Maid of Honor on bottom.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ytni-X0__8c/UuV9ApX3eGI/AAAAAAAABAk/V5YhKqCJmwc/s1600/108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ytni-X0__8c/UuV9ApX3eGI/AAAAAAAABAk/V5YhKqCJmwc/s1600/108.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridesmaids Bouquets<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UZnSmzuURis/UuV83V8BScI/AAAAAAAABAc/zvsknxaBdCg/s1600/107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UZnSmzuURis/UuV83V8BScI/AAAAAAAABAc/zvsknxaBdCg/s1600/107.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flowers for sisters hair.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JUV7QkZCo6s/UuV9ShY_sAI/AAAAAAAABA8/WzDH-6uSS7k/s1600/102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JUV7QkZCo6s/UuV9ShY_sAI/AAAAAAAABA8/WzDH-6uSS7k/s1600/102.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fathers Bouts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Bi3SP9TJtU/UuV9mEQWZHI/AAAAAAAABBE/muu6hOC5ddA/s1600/099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Bi3SP9TJtU/UuV9mEQWZHI/AAAAAAAABBE/muu6hOC5ddA/s1600/099.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grooms Bout</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span id="goog_270614467"></span><span id="goog_270614468"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />
<span id="goog_1566262593"></span><span id="goog_1566262594"></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span id="goog_658606976"></span><span id="goog_658606977"><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-15448753250246800852014-01-04T22:06:00.000-07:002014-01-04T22:06:07.360-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Candelabra Centerpieces</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GSu69UaNckk/UsjX66isqQI/AAAAAAAAA9w/Okksuu87T3Y/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GSu69UaNckk/UsjX66isqQI/AAAAAAAAA9w/Okksuu87T3Y/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Once again I must apologize for not posting in a very VERY long time. Life has gotten extremely busy and I am still trying to figure out how to keep things from falling through the cracks. Obviously, I have not been terribly successful with that! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So while the kids are playing Lego's I will make an attempt at a post. Let's see how far I get!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With wedding season approaching I thought I would do a few posts on what is new, or what I am loving right now. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Right now, for centerpieces, I am loving candelabras. For the last two wedding shows I have designed floral pieces on candelabras. I've had a great response! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For me these centerpieces represent simple elegance. They are high enough to see around. They are big enough to make a statement. They can be modern or traditional. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The first time I saw a centerpiece like these I immediately fell in love. I went to my wholesaler to purchase some candelabras and found the selection somewhat overwhelming. There were so many options! As a designer this is good and bad! I would have loved to take one of each of the dozens of candelabras and designed a unique piece for each. I had so many ideas, but I needed to choose one style for the booth. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There are so many types of candelabras ranging from rustic wooden pieces to ornate 3 foot tall multi arm dripping with crystal versions. I decided to go middle of the road. Simple and elegant. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just take a look at a few I found online:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x1HiAxVQMsU/UsjjgfDVOPI/AAAAAAAAA-I/rH-4AuHmUMo/s1600/c.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x1HiAxVQMsU/UsjjgfDVOPI/AAAAAAAAA-I/rH-4AuHmUMo/s1600/c.png" height="200" width="163" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Here is an idea. Why not go to the thrift store and see what they have in stock. A can of spray paint and good will could save you a bundle! Plus, think of all the fun colors you could paint them! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i7YuIk3wdqI/Usjjjq88ktI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/x4r1P1OV6oA/s1600/c3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i7YuIk3wdqI/Usjjjq88ktI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/x4r1P1OV6oA/s1600/c3.jpg" height="200" width="158" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This one reminds me of Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast. It just paint it gold et ALLO!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OBf2NI0eXw0/Usjkdv2B28I/AAAAAAAAA_E/S0awQY33EaQ/s1600/c2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OBf2NI0eXw0/Usjkdv2B28I/AAAAAAAAA_E/S0awQY33EaQ/s1600/c2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
Here are a few samples of other talented designers work</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RsNB3jIQjlc/Usjj5ncMziI/AAAAAAAAA-c/rlOGPI_7Oyw/s1600/charleston-myrtle-beach-hilton-head-wedding-centerpieces-baby-breath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RsNB3jIQjlc/Usjj5ncMziI/AAAAAAAAA-c/rlOGPI_7Oyw/s1600/charleston-myrtle-beach-hilton-head-wedding-centerpieces-baby-breath.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2UYXX_UxAB8/UsjkJyLFThI/AAAAAAAAA-s/x_s6v7WRqWs/s1600/wedding-centerpiece-floral-arrangement-ideas-53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2UYXX_UxAB8/UsjkJyLFThI/AAAAAAAAA-s/x_s6v7WRqWs/s1600/wedding-centerpiece-floral-arrangement-ideas-53.jpg" height="320" width="234" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q8YG8OozOIo/UsjnPQoSPKI/AAAAAAAAA_U/u2qAYt52oq8/s1600/niagara-wedding-show-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q8YG8OozOIo/UsjnPQoSPKI/AAAAAAAAA_U/u2qAYt52oq8/s1600/niagara-wedding-show-3.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Notice the use of the cute succulents! I think I'll write about those next!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j9I_XxEnk4s/UsjYGhqBTqI/AAAAAAAAA94/fB6bkBtcM9w/s1600/photo+4+(30).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j9I_XxEnk4s/UsjYGhqBTqI/AAAAAAAAA94/fB6bkBtcM9w/s1600/photo+4+(30).JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So I know these centerpieces are not on candelabras, but just imagine if I would have used them in 2012! Even more stunning!!!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-78285690842684593712012-08-28T14:37:00.000-06:002013-11-30T09:05:45.518-07:00The End of One Crazy Summer!<div style="text-align: center;">
Wow time flies! I can't believe my last post was in May! I promised to post more, but I have had a wonderfully busy summer working with some fabulous brides! Over the next few days or weeks I will post about a few of my favorite events I designed this summer. I will start now with bride Emily! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Em was married in June. The location she chose for her wedding was a beautiful outdoor setting with wildflowers a waterfall and pine trees - very rustic and lovely! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My first planning meeting with Emily was in December of 2011. From the moment she began to talk about her vision for her wedding I knew she was on the ball and would easy to work with. For starters, she chose a venue that fit her personality, she had a flower budget worked out, and although she had ideas of what she wanted, she was flexible. On our first meeting we planned most everything and scheduled a follow up meeting in April at the actual wedding venue. I strongly recommend letting your designer see your venue if he/she is not familiar with it, even if they are 'only' doing flowers. This enables your designer to get an idea of scale and it also let's them meet the facility manager or coordinator which is always helpful! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, lets get to it! What flowers did Emily choose. Well, first we went with a wildflower theme. Her colors were slate blue and raspberry - lovely! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Emily wanted to have her bouquet mostly white.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KZqf5Ux2fuY/UD0qmtym4lI/AAAAAAAAA1I/r8U6ujydKsU/s1600/photo+(22).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KZqf5Ux2fuY/UD0qmtym4lI/AAAAAAAAA1I/r8U6ujydKsU/s320/photo+(22).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The colors were highlighted in the brides maids bouquets. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fpqRMtzT6Dw/UD0qrprqlXI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/s3jUjCBGQUo/s1600/photo+%252823%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fpqRMtzT6Dw/UD0qrprqlXI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/s3jUjCBGQUo/s320/photo+%252823%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Her centerpieces were wildflowers in miscellanious bottles and vases with votive candles for sparkle.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3eoKDECl8n8/UD0qxqC8nMI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/OixzcM3SaUc/s1600/photo+%252824%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3eoKDECl8n8/UD0qxqC8nMI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/OixzcM3SaUc/s320/photo+%252824%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I had such fun working with Emily. She and her groom Clark were so gracious and lovely - a realy joy! I am hoping to get more photos from them to post so you can see the overall effect of the planning and design.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-59436766382386827682012-05-10T21:38:00.000-06:002012-05-10T21:38:01.424-06:00How to Choose your Wedding Theme and ColorsChoosing the theme and colors of your wedding is important. In fact, I think it is one of the first things most brides do. Be honest, how many of you have had a wedding board on Pinterest with color combinations, dresses, cakes, etc? Most girls kind of know the direction they will go with their wedding. Most of us know what colors we like and don't like -we know we hate carnations but love raunculus etc. When starting putting ideas together for color and theme, I suggest you take a moment to write down a few things about yourself and your groom. <br />
If I may, I would like to tell you a little story. <br />
Back in the 90's sunflowers were THE flower to use for weddings. For a good year or more I went to weddings with sunflowers. I made bouquets with sunflowers. I even remember a couple of friends who were to be married just weeks apart fighting, each accusing the other of copying 'their sunflower idea'. The only reason I remember these girls actually had sunflowers in their weddings was because they were such brats! Had they not fought about sunflowers, their weddings would have blended into all the other sunflower weddings I designed or attended. They are all a blurr!<br />
<br />
On the flip side, during the same time frame my friend Katie had a beautiful Mexican theme wedding. She hung dozens of pinatas and bright red crepe paper flowers. She had a mariachi band and salty margaritas, the whole 9 yards. Katie had spent time in Mexico and had fallen in love with the culture, the food and the bright beautiful colors of that country. Her wedding was unique, it was meaningful and I remember it! Katie's wedding was Katie, not another sunflower wedding.<br />
<br />
It is easy to find all sorts of themes and color combinations on wedding sites and in magazines. While these resources are helpful, think about the thousands of other brides perusing these magazines and websites seeing the exact same thing you are seeing. <br />
I believe your wedding should say something about <em>you.</em> It should show <em>your</em> interests and personality, your likes and passions. Your wedding should be<em> yours,</em> not one you saw in a magazine.<br />
<br />
By sitting down with your groom and answering a few questions you can put a personal stamp on your wedding. Here are a few questions you may want to consider. <br />
1. Where is your favorite place? Ireland, Versailles, Italy, Newport Beach California, New York City? Places can inspire with colors, traditions, food, music, etc.<br />
2. What is your favorite restaurant? Do you love the food there or the ambiance. Can they be duplicated for your wedding?<br />
3. What artist inspires you? Do you love the soft blurry colors of Monet or do the colors of Matisse match your personality more? <br />
4. What is your favorite movie, (please think classics!) ? To Catch a Thief, Gone With the Wind, Funny Face...<br />
5. What is your style of dress? (Do you like a lot of bling, do you use natural and organic fabrics, are you high fashion?) <br />
6. Do you have a favorite time period? Edwardian, Victorian, Roaring 20's...<br />
7. What is your favorite book? The Great Gatsby, Pride and Prejudice, Jane Eyer...<br />
8. What is your nationality or ethnic background?<br />
9. What are your hobbies? <br />
By answering these questions you may be able to find a theme, colors and style that put your personal stamp on your special day. <br />
Don't be a sunflower wedding!!!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-47196816559584573262012-03-19T17:13:00.002-06:002012-03-19T17:33:37.428-06:00BeBetsy.comHey All,<br />
I have neglected my poor blog lately. Sorry about that - but I do have a GREAT reason! I have begun writing for the fabulous website <a href="http://www.bebetsy.com/">www.bebetsy.com</a> I have been contributing articles in 'Home Etc', 'Health' and 'Have Your Ever'. This site is eclectic and fun with articles on technology, finances, health, fashion and much much more - including yummy recipes! I personally love the 'Hot Finds'!<br />
The button to the left will take you to BeBetsy where you can enter a contest to win a $50 VISA gift card. While you are there could you help me out? Sign up for BeBetsy and then select my name - with your help I can win the contributing writers contest. The more people who select my name the better my odds of winning! <br />
Check back here at Bleu Bird often. I promise to update more. <br />
Also, if you have any questions or issues, (regarding gardening, flowers, weddings and event planning), you would like me to address please feel free to leave a comment.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-35782097648034154122012-01-19T17:49:00.003-07:002012-01-19T17:49:28.664-07:00Wedding Trends<div style="text-align: center;">
Wedding season is fast approaching. I have begun meeting with my Spring and Summer brides to put the final touches on their weddings. I love my job! I enjoy, (well actually I am addicted to), finding wedding pins on Pinterest. I love going to Barnes and Noble flipping through wedding mags while sipping a decaf mocha. I love hearing different ideas and seeing the personalities of my brides come through in their wedding design. For brides today there is almost too much information on line and in print - even on television. Information is <u>so</u> accessible it makes easy for a bride to get caught up in all the<em> trends</em>. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Trend: A general direction followed; prevailing tendency; drift. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On my isp home page there is a section called "Trending Now". Trend. I am not a big fan of trends when it concerns something as special as a wedding. Even the definition is a little sketchy for me. I don't want to be a drifter or follower. I am all for being fashionable, but 'trendy'...NO. Recently I read a quote by Grace Ormonde which reflects my thoughts on trends with particular regard to weddings. She said, "While I understand that trends are always changing, I don't believe that weddings should be 'trendy.' I believe that everything - the photos, wedding gown, decor, and so forth - should be timeless." Bravo Ms. Ormonde. Consider the amount of time and money you put into the planning and execution of your wedding day. It would make sense that you would want to always love your wedding. One piece of advice I give my brides is this - ask yourself the following: 1) Will I still LOVE my wedding in 5 or even 10 years? 2) When looking at my wedding photos what will my children say? 3) Will people be able to date my wedding almost to the year? </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Trending now: peacock/feathers, burlap, lace, mason jars, billy balls, anemones, the 20's, food trucks, photo booths, the messy up-do, colored shoes for the bride, brooch bouquets, cupcakes...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: center;">
If I am honest with you I must tell you that several of my brides will be using one of more of the above trends in their wedding. I'm mostly ok with it... in moderation. If you absolutely LOVE a trend incorporate it in your event sparingly and tastefully. And again, ask yourself, "Will I love this in the future?"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SrFOu5zXJOE/Txi5seiDMFI/AAAAAAAAA0U/bmSAKp-N5-Y/s1600/rainiergrace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SrFOu5zXJOE/Txi5seiDMFI/AAAAAAAAA0U/bmSAKp-N5-Y/s320/rainiergrace.jpg" width="272" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VEmp5FeM9G4/Txi5utQ5tfI/AAAAAAAAA0c/l4--34uSPJk/s1600/WillKate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VEmp5FeM9G4/Txi5utQ5tfI/AAAAAAAAA0c/l4--34uSPJk/s1600/WillKate.jpg" /></a></div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: center;">
Looking for classic inspiration? Think Grace Kelly and Kate Middleton</div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: center;">
No, you don't have their funds. But the simplicity of their style...timeless</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-85157461439172931782011-12-22T16:45:00.002-07:002011-12-22T17:06:58.526-07:00Seasonal Wedding FlowersLast post I wrote about the white Anemone and its popularity. I also mentioned its natural growing season. I thought I would take a moment to talk about why it is a good idea to use 'in season' flowers for your wedding.<br />
I've said it before and I will say it again - Mother Nature knows her stuff! Each season has its own set of colors. We associate those seasons and colors for a reason. Seasonal colors are based on what nature is providing during those months. Think about it. In February some brave bulbs begin to poke their heads up out of the earth and snow giving us our first taste of color for the year. As the snow melts in March we begin to get our green back. April and May brings a riot of bright and beautiful colors - blushing pinks, happy blues, lilac purples. As Spring turns into Summer our roses begin to bloom along with other heat loving flowers, sunny yellows, hot pinks, juicy oranges. Summer turns into Fall and the colors become more muted and richer, grape purples, cinnamon reds, chocolate browns Winter here brings silvery blue, cool grey, icy lavender and sparkling white. <br />
By looking at the colors, plants and flowers mother nature has to offer you can create a beautiful and affordable event. Straying from what is naturally in season, however, can cause a headache and cost a lot of money.<br />
These days it is possible to find most any flower at most any time of year. The question is, should you use it? Back to the white anemone. It really is a beautiful flower. But its natural growing season is January through May. This means if you want to use this flower any other time of year it must be imported. The problems with importing flower some flowers are as follows. (I will use shipping to the United States as my example). Pricing, agricultural concerns, and quality. <br />
First the price. You are paying to have a flower, in this case the white anemone whose price has risen due to demand, shipped from another country- which adds to the price you will pay for this flower. Second, flowers by nature are generally fragile. Consider this - after the flower is cut must be packed, sent across countries, unpacked and inspected, repacked and shipped to the United States. Upon arrival in the U.S. the flowers will have to endure agricultural screenings to ensure it is not infested with pests, parasites or harmful bacteria. It can then go to the wholesaler to be sold. Quite the process huh?! Don't get me wrong. This is a process that is done every single day, and the vast majority of flowers do just fine. But anemones and other fragile flowers do not fare as well. Long story short, importing flowers can be costly and your flowers may not survive their journey well - if at all.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0_dKTiicZPw/TvPFn3Ui-WI/AAAAAAAAA0E/VgUo8fqzXl4/s1600/jen3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0_dKTiicZPw/TvPFn3Ui-WI/AAAAAAAAA0E/VgUo8fqzXl4/s320/jen3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anemones growing season January -May<br />
photo from bouquetbridal.blogspot.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So what is a bride to do? That is obviously up to the individual. If you really love one particular flower that must be imported I say go for it - as long as you are aware of the pricing and risk of availability. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CezTupsINuI/TvPDi_xRVNI/AAAAAAAAAz4/vnD7fhlwu7g/s1600/jenny4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CezTupsINuI/TvPDi_xRVNI/AAAAAAAAAz4/vnD7fhlwu7g/s320/jenny4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Growing season for the peony is mid Spring to early Summer.<br />
photo from Marthastewart.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
To check out some of my brides and follow their journey to the perfect flowers for their wedding, follow me on pinterest and look at boards, Jenny, Emily and Sarah.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-57441046703098708162011-11-22T16:44:00.001-07:002011-11-22T21:13:40.878-07:00White Anemones - The "IT" Flower for Bridal Bouquets<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The other day I was venting on Facebook about the whole moustache trend that has swept the United States. I really don't get it! I am not a big fan of jumping on the latest bandwagon - and while I watch trends, I am not necessarily a trend follower. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
HOWEVER...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The latest trend in bridal bouquets is one I can support! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CYyB9Cd9ups/TsxKhjetpUI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/5vzR--2r7jc/s1600/yellow_white_anemones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CYyB9Cd9ups/TsxKhjetpUI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/5vzR--2r7jc/s320/yellow_white_anemones.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">
White Anemones with black centers. I love this flower, in any color, but these are the new 'IT' factor for weddings for foreseeable future! Just look at them! Delicate and ruffly with a beautiful contrast from the black center. But here is the thing - flowers that are trendy have a nasty habit of becoming expensive. It has something to do with the whole supply and demand thing. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G2TFJmWHpRg/TsxKRwTRYVI/AAAAAAAAAwA/bYbzHZmP-GI/s1600/anem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G2TFJmWHpRg/TsxKRwTRYVI/AAAAAAAAAwA/bYbzHZmP-GI/s320/anem.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">boards.weddingbee.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">
The natural growing season for Anemones in the U.S. is January through May. Using these or any other flower when out of season can significantly increase the price of your wedding flowers. So if you LOVE these pretty little posies as much as the next bride or if you are getting married when these flowers are out of season, here are some other options you may want to consider. </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zPY9ZdfscnU/TsxvYIOOMpI/AAAAAAAAAwg/NuwAvJfghCs/s1600/white_flower_04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zPY9ZdfscnU/TsxvYIOOMpI/AAAAAAAAAwg/NuwAvJfghCs/s320/white_flower_04.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White Gerbera Daisy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GX2Fm8S7Hn8/TsxvaeZuYzI/AAAAAAAAAwo/IXv3hyztdc0/s1600/White_Bouquets_-_Peonies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GX2Fm8S7Hn8/TsxvaeZuYzI/AAAAAAAAAwo/IXv3hyztdc0/s320/White_Bouquets_-_Peonies.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White Peony-Photo pinkfrosting.com.au</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M41PCzgMV_M/TsxvbQUe7cI/AAAAAAAAAww/e1lLJ006ipg/s1600/white+ran.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="304" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M41PCzgMV_M/TsxvbQUe7cI/AAAAAAAAAww/e1lLJ006ipg/s320/white+ran.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White Ranuculus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-084o0B9IUOk/Tsxvb5MTYvI/AAAAAAAAAw4/Uts9dDm6bMk/s1600/lisi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-084o0B9IUOk/Tsxvb5MTYvI/AAAAAAAAAw4/Uts9dDm6bMk/s1600/lisi.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White Lisianthus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">
While these are good replacements, I really LOVE the real thing. And if you really really love them, they may just be worth the extra it will cost. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Iqzhi_TKTdg/TsxHYho8rmI/AAAAAAAAAv4/JMbESBNxkkU/s1600/em2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Iqzhi_TKTdg/TsxHYho8rmI/AAAAAAAAAv4/JMbESBNxkkU/s320/em2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">
Trends come and trends go. But this wedding trend is one I don't think you will look back on and wonder, "What was I thinking?!"</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4cPiNzgyNLo/TsxwS45py_I/AAAAAAAAAxA/FKi9py_aOoM/s1600/anecake2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4cPiNzgyNLo/TsxwS45py_I/AAAAAAAAAxA/FKi9py_aOoM/s320/anecake2.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this cake-Photo cakecentral.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9AGLQ6IrTU/TsxwU4VVedI/AAAAAAAAAxI/AtNjMEYvEjk/s1600/Black+and+White+Anemone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9AGLQ6IrTU/TsxwU4VVedI/AAAAAAAAAxI/AtNjMEYvEjk/s320/Black+and+White+Anemone.jpg" width="284" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cute for shower or reception goodies-Photo savoureauxcupcakery.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-3875192387233319022011-10-26T14:45:00.000-06:002011-10-26T14:45:03.585-06:00Flower Girls and Ring 'Bears'...grrrr!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DURzFjgHEAo/TqhwuEtmCLI/AAAAAAAAAtg/NZn6s8PiPBQ/s1600/IMG_0104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" ida="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DURzFjgHEAo/TqhwuEtmCLI/AAAAAAAAAtg/NZn6s8PiPBQ/s200/IMG_0104.JPG" width="189" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our darling flower girls.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Years ago my daughters were asked to be flower girls for their cousins wedding. My youngest daughter was only 3 years old. The day of the wedding the kids participated in the rehersal, pretending to toss their flower petals as they walked down the asile. They practiced to perfection! When it came time for the actual ceremony my husband and I entrusted out girls with the wedding coordinator and went to take our seats. The music began and one by one the bridal party walked down the asile. Our oldest daughter performed her flower girl duties perfectly . We waited for our 3 year old, hoping she would do the same. We waited and waited...after a minute or two I began to panic! I snuck out of ceremony to see what the hold up was. Stage fright? Tantrum? What was going on?! The problem was our daughter was missing! The cooridnator had no idea where she was! Meanwhile, the bride, the groom and all of the guests sat waiting while I searched the mansion for our little 3 year old flower girl. I found her up stairs in the brides room twiriling in front of the mirror. After a delay of about 8-9 minutes the ceremony continued on. Fortunately the bride was easy going and had no problem with the 'pause' in the ceremony.</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Children can be a great addition to your wedding party. It is a lot of fun to dress up a little girl or guy in fancy clothes and have them participate in your big day. But remember - they are kids! Kids can be moody, silly and very unpredictable! If you plan on having children in your wedding party you must be willing to roll with what ever happens. I have seen kids refuse to walk the asile. I have seen children cry as they are walking down the asile. I have seen children steal the show during the ceremony. During the ceremony I mentiond above, the same daughter, bored to death, decided to lay down on the floor while my older daughter - mortified - tried to get her to stand up. Long story short - if you are a 'type A' personality having children participate in your ceremony may not be a great idea!</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I0pcbVpiBzQ/TqhwvXdz8HI/AAAAAAAAAto/O-gJzfmvUBM/s1600/IMG_0110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="177" ida="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I0pcbVpiBzQ/TqhwvXdz8HI/AAAAAAAAAto/O-gJzfmvUBM/s200/IMG_0110.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice the youngest no longer has her bag of flower petals!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
So what are your options? First, you can, as I said above, let children participate in the entire day and just know that things may not go perfectly. You can opt to have them in the photographs and reception only, with mom and dad close at hand should there be any meltdowns). It is also ok to not use cousins, nephews and neices etc. Most parents will understand. My daughters have been flower girls on several occasions and it is no small task keeping them looking pristine and happy- not to mention hair, dresses, shoes etc! While it is an honor and a lot of fun - we would be just as happy watching from the side lines!</div>
You may be wondering about the title of this post. I'm sure you've all heard the story of the little boy who was asked to be the ring bearer for a wedding. While walkling down the asile with the rings on the beautiful silk pillow he growl loudly all the way to the bride and groom. The boy was very proud of the job he did as ring BEAR! <br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z6HQeKuqsGk/TqhwwO5D2VI/AAAAAAAAAtw/T3rLBZy82wQ/s1600/IMG_0111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z6HQeKuqsGk/TqhwwO5D2VI/AAAAAAAAAtw/T3rLBZy82wQ/s320/IMG_0111.JPG" width="248" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful bride and Sarah.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-55172712851735109162011-08-26T16:49:00.001-06:002011-08-26T16:57:03.495-06:00Size Matters...The Size of Your Bridal Bouquet That Is!Years ago, when I was the florist for a very popular upscale wedding reception center, I was lucky enough to do the flowers for a high school friends wedding. My friend and I hadn't seen each other much after high school, so I was out of touch with what was going on in his life. In fact the only way I knew I was doing his wedding flowers was due to the fact that he was listed as the groom on the floral order I received. <br />
Unfortunately, between the brides schedule and various other circumstances, (which shall go unnamed!) I was unable to meet directly with the bride to discuss her wedding. All I had was an order form filled out and priced by someone other than myself. I had no idea what the theme of the wedding was, what the look was supposed to be. I had never even met the bride! I can remember to this day the bouquet she requested was all white, with snap dragons, white freesia and white roses. She wanted it hand tied, presentation style, (think Miss America), with the stems wrapped in white and thin gold ribbon over the white. I remember looking at the amount charged for the bridal bouquet thinking, "Wow! She must want a big bouquet!". <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
The day of the wedding I began to working on the flowers. I was sure to add extra special touches so that my friend and his bride would be thrilled with their flower - and also, really, to show off a bit. After hours of working I was very happy with the flowers. The bouquet was large and beautiful...fit for a queen! I couldn't wait to see the brides reaction! While waiting for the bride to emerge from her dressing room, I pinned on corsages and bouts and distributed bouquets to all the brides maids. I was pleased with the responses I received on my work. Finally the bride was ready for her bouquet! Feeling very confident in my work, I walked up the stairs to deliver her beautiful bundle of flowers. When I saw gorgeous Cicely I wanted to die. Cicely is all of 5'2" and maybe 100 pounds soaking wet. Her dress was form fitting. She looked stunning! And I was handing her a bouquet the size of a small flowering shrub! Even worse...she is moments from walking down the aisle. There was no time to fix it! That was one of those times in my life where I was literally sick to my stomach! I was ready to vomit! However, not only is Cicely beautiful, but she is also very kind! She insisted that the bouquet was perfect and graciously lugged it down the aisle to her waiting groom. It wasn't until after the ceremony and pictures that I was able to take the bouquet and make it the appropriate size. Every time I see the wedding photos I am soooo embarrassed! </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
SO! What is to be learned from this experience?! Several things - First, ALWAYS speak directly to your floral designer so you can be sure you are on the same page. Do NOT trust your mother in law, sister or wedding planner to correctly convey <u>your</u> vision of <u>your</u> wedding . Second, If at all possible show your designer pictures of the colors, flowers and style of bridal bouquet you want. Last but not least remember SIZE MATTERS! </div>
The size of your bridal bouquet should be in proportion to your figure, your height and your gown. You must also consider the style of your gown when choosing your bouquet. No bride should look as if she is hiding behind her bouquet. Nor should it be so small it looks like an after thought.<br />
As a rule of thumb, I don't like to see bouquets that are wider than the brides hips/waist. <br />
Here are some examples I hope will demonstrate my thoughts.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fs2nE5BVOVk/TlgXvkRJLfI/AAAAAAAAAr4/J2algF98CJM/s1600/cascade2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fs2nE5BVOVk/TlgXvkRJLfI/AAAAAAAAAr4/J2algF98CJM/s320/cascade2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This bouquet is beautiful, but I think it is too much for this gown and bride. Her frame and the silhouette do not support such a large bouquet. This bouquet would work much better for a plus size bride or a ball gown . The style of this bouquet is called cascade. Cascade bouquets and formal gowns are stunning together. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oqo_4ygRJr0/TlgdrXFExbI/AAAAAAAAAsA/lpSemlrCiiE/s1600/ball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oqo_4ygRJr0/TlgdrXFExbI/AAAAAAAAAsA/lpSemlrCiiE/s320/ball.jpg" width="300" /></a> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4ied7xn1jk/TlgdvQqUo5I/AAAAAAAAAsE/RqmEfzlsrck/s1600/ball1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4ied7xn1jk/TlgdvQqUo5I/AAAAAAAAAsE/RqmEfzlsrck/s320/ball1.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Either of the above dresses are much better suited for a large cascade bouquet. Because the skirts have such volume a large bouquet would not detract from the bride. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G3XMRoCTWB4/TlgXz1qVevI/AAAAAAAAAr8/iaPpaUdaHKo/s1600/cascade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qaa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G3XMRoCTWB4/TlgXz1qVevI/AAAAAAAAAr8/iaPpaUdaHKo/s1600/cascade.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This cascade is better for a more form fitting dress - but still maybe a bit wide for a thin or average size bride. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DEztCWPzoFI/TlgXaRKxnRI/AAAAAAAAArk/5-e4ncIphAU/s1600/white-bridal-bouquet-trend-via-blooms-by-martha-andrews-of-ca-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" qaa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DEztCWPzoFI/TlgXaRKxnRI/AAAAAAAAArk/5-e4ncIphAU/s320/white-bridal-bouquet-trend-via-blooms-by-martha-andrews-of-ca-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
These bouquets are better suited for a form fitting gown and any size bride petite to plus. In fact, hand tied bouquets are very versatile. The type of flowers used can make it formal or casual. They can be made larger for larger gowns or smaller for smaller gowns and./or brides.</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aW-PDpy-b3I/TlgXRf7nwwI/AAAAAAAAArY/obFXduMy0V8/s1600/bouquet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aW-PDpy-b3I/TlgXRf7nwwI/AAAAAAAAArY/obFXduMy0V8/s320/bouquet.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love the look of this presentation/arm bouquet. This is a great way to have a long bouquet without the bulk and size of a regular cascade. </div>
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TEurJM6WbF0/TlgXH_UKsDI/AAAAAAAAArU/IPO1dyUEEZo/s1600/dress5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qaa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TEurJM6WbF0/TlgXH_UKsDI/AAAAAAAAArU/IPO1dyUEEZo/s1600/dress5.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0mkZbYjGFb8/TlgXc-zBrfI/AAAAAAAAAro/n9XfQQy4CcY/s1600/hand+tied.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qaa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0mkZbYjGFb8/TlgXc-zBrfI/AAAAAAAAAro/n9XfQQy4CcY/s1600/hand+tied.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For more informal gowns and/or thin petite brides, small and simple is better. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" qaa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b3g8AlUcHLE/TlgXV3XKbhI/AAAAAAAAArc/g6niabMrAlk/s1600/large.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Ball gowns do not necessitate a large cascade bouquet. This hand tied bouquet is the perfect size and style for this ball gown. However, I wouldn't go much smaller. <br />
<div align="center" class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just remember, on your wedding day the focus should be on you, the bride as a whole. Not the dress alone and not the flowers alone, but the complete look. Oh and please - when walking down the aisle, keep the bouquet near your belly button! Any higher and you hide your beautiful gown. The photo above is a perfect example of where to hold your bouquet. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-70789997806125886282011-08-06T15:20:00.001-06:002012-01-04T20:21:03.373-07:00Natures Bounty Lesson 2: The Mango<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mSZn1_t289E/Tj1NBR7iLNI/AAAAAAAAAqY/3MxN9vXs9t8/s1600/gaugainmango.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mSZn1_t289E/Tj1NBR7iLNI/AAAAAAAAAqY/3MxN9vXs9t8/s400/gaugainmango.jpg" t$="true" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
My family and I LOVE mangoes! It is by far one of our favorite fruits. </div>
<div align="center">
We love to make mango sorbet and mango salsa. </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-siymiT-aH4Q/Tj1adcKOgMI/AAAAAAAAAqk/jvZEOduR7yw/s1600/mango+sorbet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-siymiT-aH4Q/Tj1adcKOgMI/AAAAAAAAAqk/jvZEOduR7yw/s1600/mango+sorbet.jpg" t$="true" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
I think our favorite way to eat a mango is just by the slice. </div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gbgkHUdfniM/Tj1ak85KYwI/AAAAAAAAAqo/AfXQsBn9b5g/s1600/cut+mango1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gbgkHUdfniM/Tj1ak85KYwI/AAAAAAAAAqo/AfXQsBn9b5g/s1600/cut+mango1.jpg" t$="true" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
I have always loved the beautiful vibrant orange color of the mango flesh. It is such a bright happy color! But have you ever looked at the skin of a mango? There are so many colors! Deep burgundy, bright orange, yellow and chartreuse. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-asyXqRW5xRM/Tj1ZQwghRqI/AAAAAAAAAqg/kSJw8yYbfAI/s1600/mango1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-asyXqRW5xRM/Tj1ZQwghRqI/AAAAAAAAAqg/kSJw8yYbfAI/s320/mango1.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are a couple of different ways to go with a mango inspired color palette. </div>
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
The first option would be to stick to the oranges and yellows. These colors would be bright and happy, but almost monochromatic, as these colors are right next to each other on the color wheel. There are a plethora of flowers in oranges and yellows - from roses and gerbera daisies to more exotic orchids and calla lilies. Here are a few examples of an orange and yellow color palette. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f2vRAkX92U0/Tj1fmQ14QXI/AAAAAAAAAqw/hTQUOtEOiVI/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f2vRAkX92U0/Tj1fmQ14QXI/AAAAAAAAAqw/hTQUOtEOiVI/s320/images.jpg" t$="true" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This beautiful bouquet has Leonidas roses, gerbera daisies, alstromeria lilies and orange roses. I love the color of the gerbera daisies. They remind me of mango sorbet!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gAIjJyu9cVk/Tj1hGWIHf6I/AAAAAAAAAq0/NU32esT-ois/s1600/orange.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gAIjJyu9cVk/Tj1hGWIHf6I/AAAAAAAAAq0/NU32esT-ois/s400/orange.jpg" t$="true" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I LOVE the attention to detail on this bouquet. Check out the polka dot wrap and the orange ribbon! Very cute!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dkIrHBl0jVQ/Tj1hKQRuG-I/AAAAAAAAAq4/ZLgU2hm2c6I/s1600/orange-yellow-white-calla-lily-bridal-bouquet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dkIrHBl0jVQ/Tj1hKQRuG-I/AAAAAAAAAq4/ZLgU2hm2c6I/s320/orange-yellow-white-calla-lily-bridal-bouquet.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is a more elegant look with the oranges and yellows. Beautiful and simple calla lilies!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now lets look at options with colors from the entire mango.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcs0fhLOjpo/Tj1hODzzmaI/AAAAAAAAAq8/ODQDWVl7mTM/s1600/orange1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcs0fhLOjpo/Tj1hODzzmaI/AAAAAAAAAq8/ODQDWVl7mTM/s400/orange1.jpg" t$="true" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I can't get enough of this bouquet! Again this designer went the extra mile with the detail on the wrap. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tulips, anemones, gerbs and roses. This bouquet is so bright and fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O9BvJfL_xR0/Tj2rf9RETDI/AAAAAAAAArA/Ab6HRxsUcQI/s1600/red_flowers_216_10_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O9BvJfL_xR0/Tj2rf9RETDI/AAAAAAAAArA/Ab6HRxsUcQI/s400/red_flowers_216_10_m.jpg" t$="true" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These pomanders are a bit more red - but I think they are so fun! These are made from Gerbera Daisies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nx4veTuujC8/Tj2r1Z0jH_I/AAAAAAAAArI/qD8Kx1n3PQg/s1600/mango5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nx4veTuujC8/Tj2r1Z0jH_I/AAAAAAAAArI/qD8Kx1n3PQg/s1600/mango5.jpg" t$="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this bouquet from The Knot. The colors are gorgeous and the design is stunning! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XLuZaKY_dbk/Tj2ueuH4IaI/AAAAAAAAArM/A35l3Aar7-U/s1600/orange3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XLuZaKY_dbk/Tj2ueuH4IaI/AAAAAAAAArM/A35l3Aar7-U/s320/orange3.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last but not least, take a look at how these mangoes are served. Beautiful and YUMMY!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JWYFvSYEO2w/Tj2vF83EP_I/AAAAAAAAArQ/aQaUckjBuU8/s1600/cutmango.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JWYFvSYEO2w/Tj2vF83EP_I/AAAAAAAAArQ/aQaUckjBuU8/s1600/cutmango.jpg" t$="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are so great you almost wouldn't need buffet flowers!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-1278973097783855542011-07-28T15:16:00.001-06:002012-01-04T20:22:00.825-07:00Natures Bounty Lesson 1: FIGS<div style="border: currentColor;">
The past month I have been part of a coop called Bountiful Baskets. Each week people make a 'contribution' of money which is pooled together to purchase fruit and veggies at a discounted price. It is so much fun to see what we get in our basket each week. A couple of weeks ago we received Mission Figs. They were beautiful! The colors on the outside of the fruit were so elegant for such a humble little fruit - then I cut them in half and WOW! BEAUTIFUL! One little fig contains an amazing palette of colors. Just look at these! </div>
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OylgGu4p5NI/TjHBzH8k55I/AAAAAAAAApg/s2H2TcQ8lzU/s1600/fig1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OylgGu4p5NI/TjHBzH8k55I/AAAAAAAAApg/s2H2TcQ8lzU/s200/fig1.jpg" t$="true" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TUU6ut0Qs4k/TjHBv2QtwHI/AAAAAAAAApc/Dy7uw702uvc/s1600/fig3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TUU6ut0Qs4k/TjHBv2QtwHI/AAAAAAAAApc/Dy7uw702uvc/s1600/fig3.jpg" t$="true" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-srAMmzUxX1M/TjHB18ZIQmI/AAAAAAAAApk/hKgtaeTOxoE/s1600/fig4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-srAMmzUxX1M/TjHB18ZIQmI/AAAAAAAAApk/hKgtaeTOxoE/s200/fig4.jpg" t$="true" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="border: currentColor; text-align: center;">
Mother Nature really does have things figured out doesn't she. Now picture these colors for your wedding flowers or even for your living room or dining room etc. These colors are warm, rich, comfortable, but above all absolutely gorgeous! Look at the contrast of the green and purple on the outside of the fruit. Look at the beautiful juicy color on the inside with the pithy color that surrounds it. </div>
<div style="border: currentColor; text-align: center;">
Here are a few flowers for a fig inspired wedding. </div>
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: right;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><><><><><><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YR5jsgatFko/TjHOK-VM7-I/AAAAAAAAAp0/388VVdJwIDM/s1600/leo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YR5jsgatFko/TjHOK-VM7-I/AAAAAAAAAp0/388VVdJwIDM/s1600/leo.jpg" t$="true" /></a> Leonidas Rose </><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-44ufUdh4-Zs/TjHOUc90jRI/AAAAAAAAAp8/ZyAwUGSZ2rA/s1600/dhalia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-44ufUdh4-Zs/TjHOUc90jRI/AAAAAAAAAp8/ZyAwUGSZ2rA/s200/dhalia.jpg" t$="true" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dahlia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="border: currentColor; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kWfmg64HP8Y/TjHOTpinP7I/AAAAAAAAAp4/wuHYA-EyEJw/s1600/kermit.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kWfmg64HP8Y/TjHOTpinP7I/AAAAAAAAAp4/wuHYA-EyEJw/s200/kermit.bmp" t$="true" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border: currentColor; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PGlKyG-lHF0/TjHOXy3yKDI/AAAAAAAAAqA/w_WT6oSKHZY/s1600/fern+curl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PGlKyG-lHF0/TjHOXy3yKDI/AAAAAAAAAqA/w_WT6oSKHZY/s200/fern+curl.jpg" t$="true" width="150" /></a>Kermit Mum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Fern Curl<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
PS: Can you tell I am ready for Autumn!?</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-55294210464120597012011-07-21T22:19:00.001-06:002012-01-04T20:24:45.548-07:00PURPLE! The most popular color for weddings!Rumor has it purple is the most popular color for weddings this year. I'll be honest with you - I don't love purple on its own. But when paired with the right color purple can create many different moods. One great thing about purple - it is very versatile and comes in a wide range of intensity. Purple can vary from a dark rich, almost black hue to light, frosty and cool. It can be rich and juicy or antique and dusty. Take a look at the color wheel. To make a bold or bright statement use the colors opposite purple, which are yellow green and orange. For a monochromatic look move to the right or left of purple into rich magenta and violet blues.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-to_sjnQELbk/TijuzgcMvkI/AAAAAAAAAno/Qow8toY5CeY/s1600/color+wheel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-to_sjnQELbk/TijuzgcMvkI/AAAAAAAAAno/Qow8toY5CeY/s1600/color+wheel.jpg" t$="true" /></a></div>
<br />
The purple that I love is a scent. It is the rich smell of Concord Grapes hanging sweet and ripe on the vine. This purple is a memory of rich Autumn fragrances, harvest, crisp air and rusty leaves floating from trees. Personally this is the direction I would go with purple. Picture this, rich plum with chocolate brown, bronze, orange, cream and green ...my mouth is watering! What a rich and diverse palette for your wedding.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P5CYwYtLHM0/TijvUJzk-1I/AAAAAAAAAns/2SmTzjweNoQ/s1600/a100698_spr04_b3_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P5CYwYtLHM0/TijvUJzk-1I/AAAAAAAAAns/2SmTzjweNoQ/s1600/a100698_spr04_b3_l.jpg" t$="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-12Mh86VHE7w/Tijv24b6u-I/AAAAAAAAAn0/RwyCBjZLThA/s1600/144350-large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-12Mh86VHE7w/Tijv24b6u-I/AAAAAAAAAn0/RwyCBjZLThA/s320/144350-large.jpg" t$="true" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EmaiMQ_lpdE/TijwCCQbhbI/AAAAAAAAAn4/5mWM3SoVM4g/s1600/purple4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EmaiMQ_lpdE/TijwCCQbhbI/AAAAAAAAAn4/5mWM3SoVM4g/s320/purple4.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_HsLFe-Ewys/TijwFzZVPlI/AAAAAAAAAn8/NT8xs01-Yx4/s1600/purple3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_HsLFe-Ewys/TijwFzZVPlI/AAAAAAAAAn8/NT8xs01-Yx4/s320/purple3.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
For a Winter wedding cool icy lavender and white would be lovely and brisk.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CGU4EB0KIUQ/Tijxfx2gYYI/AAAAAAAAAoA/zo6FDr_TJwo/s1600/msw_fall00_bouquet_glisten_xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CGU4EB0KIUQ/Tijxfx2gYYI/AAAAAAAAAoA/zo6FDr_TJwo/s320/msw_fall00_bouquet_glisten_xl.jpg" t$="true" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XBJQKxDeUAw/TijxmJNVr7I/AAAAAAAAAoE/ck18CLclwl8/s1600/icy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XBJQKxDeUAw/TijxmJNVr7I/AAAAAAAAAoE/ck18CLclwl8/s320/icy.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IbGucv6Dk1s/Tijxn4mp_pI/AAAAAAAAAoI/T81emWUQPdo/s1600/icy3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IbGucv6Dk1s/Tijxn4mp_pI/AAAAAAAAAoI/T81emWUQPdo/s1600/icy3.jpg" t$="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yfn28o2beWU/TijxrPGaW-I/AAAAAAAAAoM/_PLgUdiXkH8/s1600/icy4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yfn28o2beWU/TijxrPGaW-I/AAAAAAAAAoM/_PLgUdiXkH8/s1600/icy4.jpg" t$="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--_eGc5WC48Y/TijxyUC3SZI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/ml-aacvaIgo/s1600/icy5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--_eGc5WC48Y/TijxyUC3SZI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/ml-aacvaIgo/s1600/icy5.jpg" t$="true" /></a></div>
<br />
Green and purple or lavender with white make a clean and fresh combination for Spring. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C5JTshMh7bk/Tijx_lNwMxI/AAAAAAAAAoU/uWzuNdpgOlE/s1600/spring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C5JTshMh7bk/Tijx_lNwMxI/AAAAAAAAAoU/uWzuNdpgOlE/s320/spring.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LcdbthmX4BQ/TijyWWVVjII/AAAAAAAAAoY/jLQuoAQSuas/s1600/spring+bouquet.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LcdbthmX4BQ/TijyWWVVjII/AAAAAAAAAoY/jLQuoAQSuas/s1600/spring+bouquet.bmp" t$="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r4lYKuwyOpk/TijyW7t6u3I/AAAAAAAAAoc/3erHlwkBEC4/s1600/purple1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r4lYKuwyOpk/TijyW7t6u3I/AAAAAAAAAoc/3erHlwkBEC4/s1600/purple1.jpg" t$="true" /></a></div>
Bright pinks, yellows, oranges and whites combined with purple, violet and lavender make fun playful Summer bouquets. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5WN-8DMYufs/Tijy7WOf4VI/AAAAAAAAAog/n3KmbXA_2WM/s1600/purplemix1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5WN-8DMYufs/Tijy7WOf4VI/AAAAAAAAAog/n3KmbXA_2WM/s1600/purplemix1.jpg" t$="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FxEYo4qSv9w/TijzFCITQfI/AAAAAAAAAoo/eGno8jLUujM/s1600/purplemix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FxEYo4qSv9w/TijzFCITQfI/AAAAAAAAAoo/eGno8jLUujM/s1600/purplemix.jpg" t$="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love the monochromatic look with just about any color. All one color and/or flower make an elegant statement. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kBkeJjQf9AI/Tij0BFTjmOI/AAAAAAAAAow/q0CSKyZu_-Y/s1600/pcalla.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kBkeJjQf9AI/Tij0BFTjmOI/AAAAAAAAAow/q0CSKyZu_-Y/s320/pcalla.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T3qlmSDYzM8/Tij0DpHf4yI/AAAAAAAAAo0/d4m2Iol7TBo/s1600/purple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T3qlmSDYzM8/Tij0DpHf4yI/AAAAAAAAAo0/d4m2Iol7TBo/s320/purple.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Bd4ilHBoWU/Tij1S8sB-AI/AAAAAAAAAo8/IE7r5pZIH_k/s1600/pur7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Bd4ilHBoWU/Tij1S8sB-AI/AAAAAAAAAo8/IE7r5pZIH_k/s1600/pur7.jpg" t$="true" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Some of my favorite purple and lavender flowers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K8IFFzNVOdA/Tij28SsXVdI/AAAAAAAAApA/l9d1jNSDBKo/s1600/sweet+pea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K8IFFzNVOdA/Tij28SsXVdI/AAAAAAAAApA/l9d1jNSDBKo/s320/sweet+pea.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet Pea - Very Fragrant - Spring only</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EtoaVxTG3m8/Tij2-tgaUoI/AAAAAAAAApE/jgmHW1LFyEU/s1600/anemone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EtoaVxTG3m8/Tij2-tgaUoI/AAAAAAAAApE/jgmHW1LFyEU/s1600/anemone.jpg" t$="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anemone - Spring only</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t2hdeX-PfZA/Tij3D6ltrgI/AAAAAAAAApI/R4AtDdX_RsQ/s1600/lilac.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t2hdeX-PfZA/Tij3D6ltrgI/AAAAAAAAApI/R4AtDdX_RsQ/s1600/lilac.jpg" t$="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lilac - Very Fragrant - Spring only</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-auH2YXt3TGk/Tij3J7B8pqI/AAAAAAAAApM/T9V2gt1k2IY/s1600/lavender.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-auH2YXt3TGk/Tij3J7B8pqI/AAAAAAAAApM/T9V2gt1k2IY/s320/lavender.bmp" t$="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><><><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eHi3jlkhcO8/Tij4RwF-aHI/AAAAAAAAApQ/mlewikYVgFI/s1600/hydrangea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eHi3jlkhcO8/Tij4RwF-aHI/AAAAAAAAApQ/mlewikYVgFI/s1600/hydrangea.jpg" t$="true" /></a> </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SwW6hpKBg2k/Tij4aKx2jUI/AAAAAAAAApU/HbqCoX0JYlM/s1600/calla.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SwW6hpKBg2k/Tij4aKx2jUI/AAAAAAAAApU/HbqCoX0JYlM/s1600/calla.bmp" t$="true" /></a></div>
</><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lavender - Very Fragrant -Summer</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eHi3jlkhcO8/Tij4RwF-aHI/AAAAAAAAApQ/mlewikYVgFI/s1600/hydrangea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eHi3jlkhcO8/Tij4RwF-aHI/AAAAAAAAApQ/mlewikYVgFI/s320/hydrangea.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hydrangea - Available year round</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SwW6hpKBg2k/Tij4aKx2jUI/AAAAAAAAApU/HbqCoX0JYlM/s1600/calla.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SwW6hpKBg2k/Tij4aKx2jUI/AAAAAAAAApU/HbqCoX0JYlM/s200/calla.bmp" t$="true" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calla Lily - Available year round</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FFC4MXQ8zeg/Tij5cdqoI8I/AAAAAAAAApY/bBrt6n6BZyY/s1600/ranuc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FFC4MXQ8zeg/Tij5cdqoI8I/AAAAAAAAApY/bBrt6n6BZyY/s320/ranuc.jpg" t$="true" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ranuculus - Spring only</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For more color combonations check out <a href="http://www.theknot.com/">http://www.theknot.com/</a> as well as <a href="http://www.thebrideandbloom.com/">http://www.thebrideandbloom.com/</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-56941972827341148942011-03-08T20:29:00.000-07:002011-03-08T20:29:45.535-07:00Blooming BranchesEach year, when the crocuses begin poking up out of the snow, I dig out my silk forsythia branches. For me this is the bit of Spring I need to get me through until I can cut some real blooming branches. Booming branches are big in decorating this season. This month Pottery Barn had blooming branches in just about every page of their new catalogue.<br />
Incorporating blooming branches in your decor this Spring is easy and will add a fresh look to your home. <br />
Basically you have three options when it comes to blooming branches. <br />
The first option is silk or aartificial. There are some amazing and very life like artificial silks, but they can be a bit spendy. However, if you plan on using them season after season, they are worth the price. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-_ObgUSxhp9w/TXbrJfGCVdI/AAAAAAAAAYw/h-ur0Zu_hl8/s1600/pb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" q6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-_ObgUSxhp9w/TXbrJfGCVdI/AAAAAAAAAYw/h-ur0Zu_hl8/s200/pb1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-13EaAFA0_oY/TXbrIeMD-iI/AAAAAAAAAYs/ieHD3GUXWnU/s1600/pb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" q6="true" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-13EaAFA0_oY/TXbrIeMD-iI/AAAAAAAAAYs/ieHD3GUXWnU/s200/pb2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Check out these beautiful faux options from Pottery Barn.</div><br />
<br />
Your second option is real blooming branches. Blooming branches can be purchased from your local florist, or you can force branches pruned from your yard. Forcing branches is relatively easy. Each Fall, trees and shrubs produce the buds that will blossom in spring. After about 8 weeks of temps below 40 degrees branches are capable of blooming. To force your branches, prune, (with sharp pruners), branches that are at least 12 inches long with lots of large round buds. Be careful while you prune that you do not ruin the shape of your shrub or tree. Take the branches in doors and if possible completely submerge them in the bathtub overnight. If you would rather not use your tub, you can place the branches in a bucket of water and mist them over the course of a few days. This helps break the dormancy. Then next step is to allow the flowers to drink and begin to bloom. Freshly cut the bottom of the branches, then cut an 'x' on the bottom. Place the branches in a cool fairly humid area. Warm locations and arid climate, such as heat vents, can cause the buds to dry out and fall off the branches. Change the water often. Clean water makes healthier flowers! Your branches will begin to show color, the bloom! Remember, where you live will determine when and what type of blooming branch you can force. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-g3nuO_8qWYk/TXbsd35Y1eI/AAAAAAAAAY0/zYKvFxdxl0A/s1600/470_1527702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" q6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-g3nuO_8qWYk/TXbsd35Y1eI/AAAAAAAAAY0/zYKvFxdxl0A/s320/470_1527702.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
Option number three is creating your own blooming branches. This is easier than it sounds. Your local craft store will have everything you need. First thing you will need is your branch. I love curly willow or Mitsumata. The next step is finding your bloom! The flowers you select will determine the look of your arrangement. You can purchase single silk flowers such as mini gerberas, a silk stem of flowers with several small blooms per stem such as delphinium, or if you are really ambitious, you can make your own blooms from paper. Attach your blossoms to your branches with hot glue. Check out this DIY! LOVE IT!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-YOZuR0YAxPo/TXbv_-tTz0I/AAAAAAAAAZA/xAtjc1-Mx2E/s1600/WeddingShow+028Final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" q6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-YOZuR0YAxPo/TXbv_-tTz0I/AAAAAAAAAZA/xAtjc1-Mx2E/s320/WeddingShow+028Final.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1t1uciolcYE/TXbv2mwanXI/AAAAAAAAAY4/cjqwIdVuRg8/s1600/flowers2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" q6="true" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1t1uciolcYE/TXbv2mwanXI/AAAAAAAAAY4/cjqwIdVuRg8/s320/flowers2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YKZuGAqosqU/TXbys9X2MiI/AAAAAAAAAZE/hriWm_ayq9g/s1600/Photo_0A584ADB-C2DA-D078-EB52-C5EBF0B656A5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" q6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YKZuGAqosqU/TXbys9X2MiI/AAAAAAAAAZE/hriWm_ayq9g/s320/Photo_0A584ADB-C2DA-D078-EB52-C5EBF0B656A5.jpg" width="240" /></a></div> <br />
<a href="http://www.gooddayasheville.com/2011/1/8/diy-budding-branches">http://www.gooddayasheville.com/2011/1/8/diy-budding-branches</a><br />
<br />
I have had such fun looking at all these beautiful options. You really should add a vase of blooming branches to your home. Blooming branches are a easy way to update your decor this SpringAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-60781907628140843512011-02-25T18:45:00.001-07:002011-02-27T17:22:51.838-07:00What to do about centerpieces?!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> It is often hard for a bride to want to spend a lot of money on centerpieces and I can see why! Ten centerpieces at anywhere from $30 on up! That adds up quick! However - it is important to remember that centerpieces absolutely set a tone, a mood and theme for your wedding. Think about it, the majority of the time spent at a wedding reception or dinner is spent at a table Also, consider the number of tables. Ten tables with tiny votive candles and a gerbera daisy floating in a vase does nothing for a room. There is no statement or personality. The room looks empty. By spending a bit on your tables you will be able to put your unique stamp on the venue and make the reception uniquely yours. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">A couple of things to remember:</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Although they are centerpieces and you want them to be noticed, you don't want them to be in the way. I have been to more than one wedding where the centerpieces were set ON THE FLOOR because the guests couldn't see each other across the table. Remember to keep the centerpiece low enough for your guests to see over or tall and thin enough to see around. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Candles! I have a love hate feeling about candles. They certainly can add to the ambiance, if they are done right. Incorporate votive candles with larger arrangements - or use candles that are large enough to hold their own. Personally, I don't care for candles only for centerpieces. They are too generic and kind of a cop out!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Be sure to ask your venue about their policy on candles. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Scented candles should not be used at dinner tables. Scented candles compete with the aroma of the food being served and can make the food unappetizing. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Remember also, you will ALWAYS have guests that are pyromaniacs . Trust me - at least one guest will either play with the wax or burn things. Spilled wax stains table cloths and fire...well, enough said. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Here are a few...well a lot of ideas.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-PZ_O0a4or3A/TWhHby1i64I/AAAAAAAAAW4/my6f_ikmhm4/s1600/WS047-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" l6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-PZ_O0a4or3A/TWhHby1i64I/AAAAAAAAAW4/my6f_ikmhm4/s200/WS047-13.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-7vdJCTnSRcc/TWhHTIKjmnI/AAAAAAAAAW0/6kVTrXmYEuQ/s1600/Floral%252520Centerpieces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" l6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-7vdJCTnSRcc/TWhHTIKjmnI/AAAAAAAAAW0/6kVTrXmYEuQ/s200/Floral%252520Centerpieces.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simplicity and elegance!</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-041C6BselCY/TWhHpK2UUVI/AAAAAAAAAW8/WF_IvIPmRF8/s1600/mwd103982_fal08_carnations_xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-041C6BselCY/TWhHpK2UUVI/AAAAAAAAAW8/WF_IvIPmRF8/s320/mwd103982_fal08_carnations_xl.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 'lowly' carnation. Actually, I love carnations. Carnations are a great way to add a pop of color for not a lot of money. When you bunch the carns together they look frilly and ruffly. </td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-JrXV9jlNKzE/TWrqypV3TfI/AAAAAAAAAYo/iiCj5RK_5IQ/s1600/Centerpiece_-_Brides_com.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" l6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-JrXV9jlNKzE/TWrqypV3TfI/AAAAAAAAAYo/iiCj5RK_5IQ/s1600/Centerpiece_-_Brides_com.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-R90LuT7OJ8E/TWhH19FScUI/AAAAAAAAAXE/cx_oOuSqkpI/s1600/carnation-topiary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" l6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-R90LuT7OJ8E/TWhH19FScUI/AAAAAAAAAXE/cx_oOuSqkpI/s200/carnation-topiary.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YalbWHx1xhg/TWhH4dIiAuI/AAAAAAAAAXI/XzzPFyNMFfo/s1600/clx0707idea03-de-234x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" l6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YalbWHx1xhg/TWhH4dIiAuI/AAAAAAAAAXI/XzzPFyNMFfo/s200/clx0707idea03-de-234x300.jpg" width="156" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WuIRfwiXNMI/TWhNi0SnSjI/AAAAAAAAAYE/moAEIz_8SFw/s1600/classleft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WuIRfwiXNMI/TWhNi0SnSjI/AAAAAAAAAYE/moAEIz_8SFw/s320/classleft.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Branches! For spring weddings blooming branches make beautiful centerpieces. Prunus and cherry blossoms scream SPRING! These branches are clean and simple. Blossoms of peony add softness and color. </td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-vxCznW9UPnY/TWhH8TWAW3I/AAAAAAAAAXM/foBEq7bjPlY/s1600/er_16_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-vxCznW9UPnY/TWhH8TWAW3I/AAAAAAAAAXM/foBEq7bjPlY/s320/er_16_lg.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Topiaries are beautiful and can be casual and fun or very elegant.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Z7sfzzNJjrM/TWhH_2Bex_I/AAAAAAAAAXQ/Rh2Ewni1Uuw/s1600/DazzlingDelight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" l6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Z7sfzzNJjrM/TWhH_2Bex_I/AAAAAAAAAXQ/Rh2Ewni1Uuw/s200/DazzlingDelight.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classic mixed arrangements. Beautiful and timeless! </td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NyhsOgIkFfk/TWhIE_vOnuI/AAAAAAAAAXU/rFc8Q9QaDds/s1600/mw1204_win05_rwda2_xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NyhsOgIkFfk/TWhIE_vOnuI/AAAAAAAAAXU/rFc8Q9QaDds/s320/mw1204_win05_rwda2_xl.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-FeR469tZxxg/TWhIaiZLVNI/AAAAAAAAAXY/UxzrXSPkNYI/s1600/Autumn+Flowers+By+Everyday+Flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-FeR469tZxxg/TWhIaiZLVNI/AAAAAAAAAXY/UxzrXSPkNYI/s320/Autumn+Flowers+By+Everyday+Flowers.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YSba4A7VyZs/TWhIbonDQXI/AAAAAAAAAXc/gBi-tlGRklA/s1600/SM37441A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YSba4A7VyZs/TWhIbonDQXI/AAAAAAAAAXc/gBi-tlGRklA/s320/SM37441A.jpg" width="221" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the idea of lanterns and birdcages. Check out the Martha Stewart birdcage below - now picture a lovely spray of flower in or on these lanterns.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0DF-vPon2a0/TWhIcynl8-I/AAAAAAAAAXg/K3ng9zcZE5Y/s1600/SM38465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0DF-vPon2a0/TWhIcynl8-I/AAAAAAAAAXg/K3ng9zcZE5Y/s320/SM38465.jpg" width="177" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Mb8BqleYQ_s/TWhMO9XyypI/AAAAAAAAAXo/jG9EujwUKq0/s1600/mwd104980_spr10_55k1113_xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Mb8BqleYQ_s/TWhMO9XyypI/AAAAAAAAAXo/jG9EujwUKq0/s320/mwd104980_spr10_55k1113_xl.jpg" width="256" /></a></div> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-f56Mrr0mjf0/TWhIeR4oguI/AAAAAAAAAXk/2CGgsx2AYEo/s1600/Squares.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" l6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-f56Mrr0mjf0/TWhIeR4oguI/AAAAAAAAAXk/2CGgsx2AYEo/s320/Squares.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very unique and contemporary. This centerpiece makes a statement!</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-500665xrqIE/TWhNUOpBNpI/AAAAAAAAAX4/R2F9c8SYxkI/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" l6="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-500665xrqIE/TWhNUOpBNpI/AAAAAAAAAX4/R2F9c8SYxkI/s200/images.jpg" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out the wood box. Not your traditional container, but still pretty!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BjDyXanEQBE/TWhNoZ9F3_I/AAAAAAAAAYI/7II6Ic8NIW4/s1600/imagesCAGXSS6E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" l6="true" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BjDyXanEQBE/TWhNoZ9F3_I/AAAAAAAAAYI/7II6Ic8NIW4/s1600/imagesCAGXSS6E.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this centerpiece. Cut cost by rounding up cake stands from your friends and family. </td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SYCUGepY4Cs/TWhNw20T_3I/AAAAAAAAAYM/ozuqMcWR5TE/s1600/imagesCA0NKRKN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" l6="true" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SYCUGepY4Cs/TWhNw20T_3I/AAAAAAAAAYM/ozuqMcWR5TE/s1600/imagesCA0NKRKN.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o_-SJn86gLw/TWhN4KJu4XI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/18Uj0ECJiuA/s1600/a99638_win03_tablenumber1_xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o_-SJn86gLw/TWhN4KJu4XI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/18Uj0ECJiuA/s320/a99638_win03_tablenumber1_xl.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-nB3lsT8OxkY/TWhPOZK4rrI/AAAAAAAAAYU/pl1Y4JlXFsw/s1600/wedding-centerpieces-picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" l6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-nB3lsT8OxkY/TWhPOZK4rrI/AAAAAAAAAYU/pl1Y4JlXFsw/s320/wedding-centerpieces-picture.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">OK! Here are the big boys! Tall, big, expensive centerpieces. Calla lilies always look clean, contemporary and elegant.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LbzV2m1wBt8/TWhPTFq0M3I/AAAAAAAAAYY/HE6UPduelj4/s1600/Tall-Centerpiece-with-Red-and-Blue-Lighting-in-Background460x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" l6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LbzV2m1wBt8/TWhPTFq0M3I/AAAAAAAAAYY/HE6UPduelj4/s320/Tall-Centerpiece-with-Red-and-Blue-Lighting-in-Background460x300.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful and classic!</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2oJ-G8t7ZtQ/TWhPdiZv9aI/AAAAAAAAAYc/4wqxND76q48/s1600/Stunning-Wedding-Centerpiece-300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" l6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2oJ-G8t7ZtQ/TWhPdiZv9aI/AAAAAAAAAYc/4wqxND76q48/s200/Stunning-Wedding-Centerpiece-300x300.jpg" width="186" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> I like the idea of this centerpiece. Branches are a great way to add height and lines. Here they have added orchid blooms to the branches for a pop of color. </td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-bfB3kb57wE8/TWhPg3FJyzI/AAAAAAAAAYg/VbbkKHiIFl4/s1600/pink-orange-white-green-wedding-centerpieces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-bfB3kb57wE8/TWhPg3FJyzI/AAAAAAAAAYg/VbbkKHiIFl4/s320/pink-orange-white-green-wedding-centerpieces.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-OiCD4c22ByQ/TWhPiElrn5I/AAAAAAAAAYk/aUysA7v_tDQ/s1600/RF_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-OiCD4c22ByQ/TWhPiElrn5I/AAAAAAAAAYk/aUysA7v_tDQ/s320/RF_6.jpg" width="284" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning !</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-4628077655133435032011-01-14T15:32:00.001-07:002011-01-14T17:29:14.316-07:00What's HOT? Cool BLUE!k;l <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDLqSSWvJI/AAAAAAAAAR8/xusyu7DCP5g/s1600/aggies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDLqSSWvJI/AAAAAAAAAR8/xusyu7DCP5g/s1600/aggies.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aggies</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDLyAUsI1I/AAAAAAAAASA/WY9pbZEXKSw/s1600/corn+flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDLyAUsI1I/AAAAAAAAASA/WY9pbZEXKSw/s200/corn+flower.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corn Flower or Bachelor Button</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">One of the hottest colors in the weddings for this season is BLUE. I love blue, (hence the name Bleu Bird Design). Blue comes in many shades which creates so many moods and feelings. Soft blue and white is clean and crisp. Tiffany blue and orange is playful. Blue and pink screams SPRING! Blue and brown is refined and cozy. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div> <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDMJ7xhAjI/AAAAAAAAASE/PiGyRomUOLo/s1600/tweedia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDMJ7xhAjI/AAAAAAAAASE/PiGyRomUOLo/s200/tweedia.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tweedia</td></tr>
</tbody></table> If you are planning a wedding with blues you are in luck! Many, many flowers come in some shade of blue. Some of my favorite are hydrangea, tweedia, corn flower, and aggapanthus. <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDMpSjDdcI/AAAAAAAAASI/TszwApV_R8s/s1600/hyd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="178" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDMpSjDdcI/AAAAAAAAASI/TszwApV_R8s/s200/hyd.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hydrangea</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div> <div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDQ1xBN-RI/AAAAAAAAASM/uEiNhBEE0W8/s1600/pin1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDQ1xBN-RI/AAAAAAAAASM/uEiNhBEE0W8/s1600/pin1.jpg" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDQ6DtlFkI/AAAAAAAAASQ/OOVBdB2K0Wk/s1600/owl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDQ6DtlFkI/AAAAAAAAASQ/OOVBdB2K0Wk/s1600/owl.jpg" /></a>One of my spring brides has chosen teal blue, cream and light coral for her wedding colors. Her mother noted that the teal is an "unnatural" color. She was worried about her option as fresh flowers are concerned. Teal blues are hard if not impossible to find naturally in flowers. However, with some of the latest trends teals, as well as other hard to find colors, can be incorporated in bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres. One of the latest trends I love is jewels. When tastefully and artistically incorporated jewels can add just the right sparkle and color to your bridal bouquet. Feathers are another big trend. I like feathers because they add another texture and interesting lines to floral design -but be careful! Too many feathers can look tacky! Don't forget ribbons and buttons for bouquet wrapping and corsage details. Another option for my bride is floral spray. Floral spray can enhance and change the color of fresh flowers. I seldom use floral spray. I much prefer the natural colors - however - sometimes if used with restraint, floral spray can give you the color you are looking for. </div>A few ideas I will discuss with my bride are... First, don't think you have to use all your colors in your bouquet. For a timeless look an all cream bouquet can't be beat. All cream flowers with a beautiful teal satin ribbon would be lovely. Teal jewels could be added for a bit of color and sparkle. For the groom, a cream bout with a satin teal wrap on the stems would be simple and elegant. You can't go wrong with all cream!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDYbxzQ3pI/AAAAAAAAASw/QTC6am1w4o8/s1600/hillary7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDYbxzQ3pI/AAAAAAAAASw/QTC6am1w4o8/s1600/hillary7.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDYnhK5CuI/AAAAAAAAAS4/pN9ukg94ryA/s1600/hillary9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDYnhK5CuI/AAAAAAAAAS4/pN9ukg94ryA/s1600/hillary9.jpg" /></a></div>A more casual and fun option is coral gerbera daisies and roses with a variety of cream flowers. You can keep the wedding parties attire in the blues/teals and use the creams and corals for the floral accents.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDX3OzC5pI/AAAAAAAAASY/9QX_KfFAJV8/s1600/hillary1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDX3OzC5pI/AAAAAAAAASY/9QX_KfFAJV8/s1600/hillary1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The option I would choose would be cream flowers with tweedia accents. Tweedia can have just enough green in it to pass for a light teal. I think this bouquet is clean and fun and beautiful. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDYhLMHwqI/AAAAAAAAAS0/VgPgnRJ1KIU/s1600/hillary8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDYhLMHwqI/AAAAAAAAAS0/VgPgnRJ1KIU/s1600/hillary8.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Solid color en mass can make a big impression. These bouquets in soft coral would be elegant and fun at the same time. Elegant because of the roses. Fun because of the color. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDX-GXMPnI/AAAAAAAAASc/wFkRlqy3UQw/s1600/hillary2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDX-GXMPnI/AAAAAAAAASc/wFkRlqy3UQw/s1600/hillary2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDXt_JCZiI/AAAAAAAAASU/_A5scujuZnU/s1600/hilary5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TTDXt_JCZiI/AAAAAAAAASU/_A5scujuZnU/s1600/hilary5.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">My first meeting with this bride will be next week. It is always fun to meet with newly engaged girls! They are so happy and have a million ideas! We will see where this one goes! I'll keep you posted. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">If you have any questions or would like to schedule a meeting for a consultation or bid, please contact me at <a href="mailto:bleubirddesign@gmail.com">bleubirddesign@gmail.com</a> </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-10568991303358452892011-01-12T21:07:00.000-07:002011-01-12T21:07:22.934-07:00Fall Wedding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TS56FxNDKZI/AAAAAAAAARg/7sPc0CabYd0/s1600/People+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TS56FxNDKZI/AAAAAAAAARg/7sPc0CabYd0/s320/People+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TS56Hrq2BcI/AAAAAAAAARk/wrs25Nq2J8A/s1600/People+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TS56Hrq2BcI/AAAAAAAAARk/wrs25Nq2J8A/s320/People+27.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TS55eAHhNrI/AAAAAAAAARc/lMQG_gREwJk/s1600/Temple+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TS55eAHhNrI/AAAAAAAAARc/lMQG_gREwJk/s320/Temple+27.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TS55a9mBRVI/AAAAAAAAARU/1TTSoXv3ZFs/s1600/Shannon+%2526+Josh+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TS55a9mBRVI/AAAAAAAAARU/1TTSoXv3ZFs/s320/Shannon+%2526+Josh+10.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-38844727512237411622010-09-29T09:54:00.000-06:002010-09-29T09:54:12.829-06:00Big DayToday is the big day! Please visit <a href="http://www.mygiveawaytoday.com/">http://www.mygiveawaytoday.com/</a> and enter to win a $40 gift certificate to <a href="http://www.jenniferwilcox.etsy.com/">http://www.jenniferwilcox.etsy.com/</a> - my Bleu Bird Design Etsy Shop! <br />
Also, because Etsy is a handmade and vintage site, some of the jewelry you have seen on this blog or at a show can not be sold on Etsy. Therefore, I will put those items such as thethe items below on this blog for sale. I am still trying to work out logistics with payment - I will use PayPal, but need to figure out how to make it user friendly! Please be patient because I have some AWESOME costume jewelry!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TKNgV7iiA5I/AAAAAAAAALM/KNQxtws1fl0/s1600/sept+boutique+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TKNgV7iiA5I/AAAAAAAAALM/KNQxtws1fl0/s200/sept+boutique+016.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TKNgd1Ij1zI/AAAAAAAAALQ/Nrl95rPCTW0/s1600/sept+boutique+018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TKNgd1Ij1zI/AAAAAAAAALQ/Nrl95rPCTW0/s200/sept+boutique+018.JPG" width="150" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TKNgi1oHz8I/AAAAAAAAALU/fKjLy1F21ek/s1600/sept+boutique+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TKNgi1oHz8I/AAAAAAAAALU/fKjLy1F21ek/s200/sept+boutique+022.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TKNgrSLc7EI/AAAAAAAAALY/34w9CfGbfOo/s1600/sept+boutique+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TKNgrSLc7EI/AAAAAAAAALY/34w9CfGbfOo/s200/sept+boutique+019.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>In the mean time, enter to win and GOOD LUCK!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-23529520497093227382010-09-23T08:45:00.000-06:002010-09-23T08:45:37.265-06:00Change of PlansMy Give Away Today has changed my date! Please vsit <a href="http://www.mygiveawaytoday.com/">http://www.mygiveawaytoday.com/</a> on the 29th of September - that is next Wednesday! You can enter to win a $40 gift certificate to my Etsy shop. Also, the entire shop will be 20% off from the 29th - October 3rd! I am adding new styles almost daily, so keep checking <a href="http://www.jenniferwilcox.etsy.com/">http://www.jenniferwilcox.etsy.com/</a> for the latest!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-54274835622966469702010-09-20T12:45:00.000-06:002010-09-20T12:45:37.250-06:00Fabulous Boutique September 25th!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TJerrgyZXYI/AAAAAAAAALE/XrGLoHMKSrk/s1600/DSCN5402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TJerrgyZXYI/AAAAAAAAALE/XrGLoHMKSrk/s400/DSCN5402.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-62156736030331739892010-09-19T09:26:00.001-06:002010-09-19T09:50:54.802-06:00My Give Away Today<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TJYwBZaQafI/AAAAAAAAAKw/-v7CtqnkmOI/s1600/emmasfancychain2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" qx="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TJYwBZaQafI/AAAAAAAAAKw/-v7CtqnkmOI/s200/emmasfancychain2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TJYvwJRskAI/AAAAAAAAAKU/SrkEsBfPW8c/s1600/079+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TJYvwJRskAI/AAAAAAAAAKU/SrkEsBfPW8c/s200/079+(3).JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TJYv4vhTfMI/AAAAAAAAAKk/G2kyp_amJmU/s1600/goldlocket2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" qx="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TJYv4vhTfMI/AAAAAAAAAKk/G2kyp_amJmU/s200/goldlocket2.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> Exciting news. Bleu Bird Design will be the featured vendor on My Give Away Today on the 30th of September. For those of you who aren't familiar with My Give Away Today, here is the scoop!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Five days a week Give Away Today features at least one vendor of fabulous products or services. By following a few simple directions you can be entered to win a prize from the days featured vendor. On September 30th, Bleu Bird Design/jenniferwilcox.etsy.com will be giving away $40 of jewelry to the My Give Away Today winner. All you have to do is sign up as a Facebook fan of Bleu Bird Design Corp. It's that easy! The winner will be selected by My Give Away Today. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TJYvygjCHLI/AAAAAAAAAKY/joqGF2oeVc0/s1600/etsybwswir1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" qx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TJYvygjCHLI/AAAAAAAAAKY/joqGF2oeVc0/s200/etsybwswir1.jpg" width="200" /></a>For more info on My Give Away Today, visit them at <a href="http://www.mygiveawaytody.com/">http://www.mygiveawaytody.com/</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">or click on their button on the right.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TJYv6xaIG3I/AAAAAAAAAKo/WBPqKSJNH20/s1600/browncameo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" qx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TJYv6xaIG3I/AAAAAAAAAKo/WBPqKSJNH20/s200/browncameo1.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-57859593736073659052010-09-19T09:16:00.000-06:002010-09-19T09:16:19.085-06:00Blog ButtonHey All,<br />
I finally got my blog button up and running! Woo Hoo! <br />
If you add my button to your blog I will give you 10% off plus free shipping on your order from my Etsy site.<br />
<a href="http://www.jenniferwilcox.etsy.com/">www.jenniferwilcox.etsy.com</a><br />
Simply copy the code in the box on the right and my blog button will appear. Clicking the button will allow instant access to my Etsy shop. If you have any trouble with the blog button, please contact me at <a href="mailto:bleubirddesign@gmail.com">bleubirddesign@gmail.com</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-63409398637269862462010-07-21T17:55:00.000-06:002010-07-21T17:55:45.466-06:00Flowers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeEFtYr4CI/AAAAAAAAAIs/3SIg17uLtpI/s1600/bb6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" hw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeEFtYr4CI/AAAAAAAAAIs/3SIg17uLtpI/s320/bb6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeD-_zl9bI/AAAAAAAAAIo/xEQC5ALG1Jc/s1600/bb5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" hw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeD-_zl9bI/AAAAAAAAAIo/xEQC5ALG1Jc/s320/bb5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeEKbBBCnI/AAAAAAAAAIw/twga_eqnj8U/s1600/bb7.png.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" hw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeEKbBBCnI/AAAAAAAAAIw/twga_eqnj8U/s320/bb7.png.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-466520449080095078.post-82230599641224908512010-07-21T16:49:00.002-06:002010-07-21T17:48:17.581-06:00Christmas in July Sale<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeC3yDpmiI/AAAAAAAAAIA/0l4sv2vH1-U/s1600/037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" hw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeC3yDpmiI/AAAAAAAAAIA/0l4sv2vH1-U/s200/037.JPG" width="150" /></a></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeDBKQIy3I/AAAAAAAAAII/apAAN8gGK90/s1600/083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeDBKQIy3I/AAAAAAAAAII/apAAN8gGK90/s200/083.JPG" width="200" /></a></div> This month, some of the shop owners on Etsy decided to have a Christmas in July Sale. Hundreds of vendors are selling thousands of items for discounted prices and/or free shipping.<br />
I decided to participate. <a href="http://www.jenniferwilcox.etsy.com/">http://www.jenniferwilcox.etsy.com/</a> will be offering 20% off the entire shop PLUS free shipping anywhere in the continental US. I have spend the last several weeks updating inventory. I have created some beautiful pieces! I have fun summery necklaces with semiprecious stones. These necklaces are perfect for layering for a 'Flapper' look or wearing alone for simple sparkle. I have great southwestern styles with turquoise, red coral, orange shell, brown cats eye and other great gems. These items go with anything and add instant color and interest to your outfit. I have also created several pearl pieces - some pieces are classic Jackie O - and others are more modern with ribbon ties and Czech Crystals. <br />
The sale for my shop runs from not until July 31st. Just click on the link above to see a large selection of my Bleu Bird Designs - or contact me at <a href="mailto:bleubirddesign@gmail.com">bleubirddesign@gmail.com</a> if you are interested in hosting a party.<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeD5HrpN_I/AAAAAAAAAIk/TPTZiWLI6Ws/s1600/041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeD5HrpN_I/AAAAAAAAAIk/TPTZiWLI6Ws/s200/041.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeDPHLV6iI/AAAAAAAAAIU/G9LIWE4fQUA/s1600/066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeDPHLV6iI/AAAAAAAAAIU/G9LIWE4fQUA/s200/066.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeD2XbRBEI/AAAAAAAAAIg/gDGRY0kffnM/s1600/045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" hw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeD2XbRBEI/AAAAAAAAAIg/gDGRY0kffnM/s200/045.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeC9CwfEtI/AAAAAAAAAIE/rWne5EZOW0s/s1600/etsylongmulti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" hw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y-6-4IM03pc/TEeC9CwfEtI/AAAAAAAAAIE/rWne5EZOW0s/s200/etsylongmulti.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00805539434666341299noreply@blogger.com