Finding Bliss In Love

Happily Ever AfterWords

2010-06-08T20:53:00.000-05:00

I recently stumbled upon this oh-so adorable wedding gift, the Happily Ever AfterWords keepsake box.

{Photos courtesy of Happily Ever AfterWords}

The cards can be passed out at a wedding, a bridal shower or any other appropriate wedding gathering. Family & friends write a special note on each card that will later be opened on the designated anniversary. I love the idea, especially because each card is a surprise. What a great way to celebrate each anniversary and be brought back to that special day when wedding bells rang!

So This Is Love....

2010-05-24T22:27:00.000-05:00

John and I recently had our engagement photos taken with our wedding photographers from Toole Art Photography. Our photographers (Crystal and Mike) were kind enough to travel from Holland, MI down to Chicago and join us in Millenium Park for some fun.

The engagement shoot was not part of our original plan but I'm so thankful we changed our minds as it was well worth it! I'm so happy with the pictures and most importantly, it was great being able to get to know our photographers prior to the wedding. Also, it was wonderful practice for John and I as we don't have much practice in model shots and perfect posing.....hahahaha.

Here are a few pictures that Crystal was kind enough to pass along for use on my blog. There are many more and will be posted very soon! Enjoy!

{Photos Courtesy of Toole Art Photography}

Just Breathe....

2010-05-23T22:39:00.000-05:00

Yes, I am still alive and my blog has not been shut down! I have recently succombed to the stress of planning a wedding and unfortunately abandoned one of my favorite pastimes - all things weddings and sharing my wedding planning story through this blog.

No matter how hard one may try, a bride will most certainly reach her limit of stress at some point throughout the planning process....it is only human. However, hitting this breaking point has made me realize how important it is to not lose sight of your favorite hobbies and be sure to enjoy life. While the wedding will be one of the most important days in my life, it is ONE day and I want to be sure and enjoy this entire experience with my fiance, family and friends rather than lose sleep over seating charts and table linens.

So on a lighter note, John and I recently had our engagement photos taken here in Chicago at Millenium Park. We both had a ton of fun with the shoot and were really happy to be able to meet and work with our photographers at Toole Art Photography prior to the wedding. Pictures will be posted very soon!

69 days and counting......I can't wait!

Etsy Treasures: Sparklethots

2010-04-11T19:02:00.000-05:00

I will admit that I have bit of an obsession with Etsy. This online store houses unbelievable treasures from across the world that you simply cannot find in your everyday department store. So join me in falling in love with one of my recent favorite Etsy sellers, Sparkle Thots.

Each piece of jewelry is both classic and beautiful, definitely something you could wear on your wedding day and beyond. Be sure to also check out their web site where additional treasures can be found!

{Photos Courtesy of Sparkle Thots}

Lace Appliques

2010-03-27T08:51:00.000-05:00

Oh I just love this DIY project and am confident anyone can pull this one off. These lace appliques have endless possibilities, whether they are for yourself or a special loved one.

Apply your favorite lace pattern to a solid tank or t-shirt, stack a few appliques on top of one another and attach to a bobby pin for an adorable hairclip for a special little loved one, or my favorite - attach to a simple chain for a beautiful statement necklace.

Check out the simple instructions over at Ruffles & Stuff and create your beautiful piece today!

{Photos courtesy of Ruffles & Stuff}

Beautiful Garters

2010-03-11T23:38:00.000-06:00

Something about bridal garters has always turned me off. Perhaps its because so many of them are incredibly gaudy and I can't help but think of those that are worn around a young single man's sweaty head after catching it from the groom's toss.

Until recently, I've been searching for one with vintage charm and class. Something simple with a pop of sparkle or perhaps one that would incorporate "something blue".

I then found out that my mom would like to make mine from her wedding dress! I'm thrilled beyond words and so excited to wear this special accessory on my big day. Because of it's meaning, my mom has offered to make one to wear throughout the day of the wedding and to have one strictly for the groom's garter toss. This way I can hold on to it for years to come.

Until I received this special news, I was searching high and low for the perfect garter and stumbled upon a beautiful shop on Etsy called Florrie Mitton Couture. This UK based designer has created exquisite garters that are timeless in their appeal. Here are some of my favorites - I highly suggest you check their shop out!

[Photos Courtesy of Florrie Mitton Couture]

Jar Frames

2010-02-26T21:30:00.000-06:00

I recently stumbled upon these antique mason jars turned into photo frames and I can't get over how charming they are! I've always adored the rustic look of a blue mason jar full of fresh wild flowers or used as a candleholder...but this tops them all. Who knew a simple mason jar could be so versatile!

I'm especially excited about this idea as I've been pondering for months over the perfect way to display old family photos that are near and dear to John and I at our wedding and by george, I think I found it!

A grouping of 5-7 jars of various sizes filled with old family photos would be a great addition to our guest book table near the entrance of the reception. Also note that these jars can be dyed if you can't find them in that lovely vintage blue color, which tends to make them more rare and therefore more expensive. Check out Bridal Buzz's DIY instructions to see just how easy this transformation can be!

{Courtesy of Style Me Pretty}

{Courtesy of Ruffled}

Vintage Centerpieces

2010-02-22T21:28:00.000-06:00

It has been quite the challenge coming up with ways to incorporate the sea blue from my wedding color scheme into the reception centerpieces. As a reminder, our colors are sea blue, blush pink, champagne, and ivory. I always envisioned the flowers being primarly ivory and soft blush pink - so the sea blue has had me stumped. Well, thank heavens I have extremely creative friends and family in my life!

My sister-in-law recently suggessted incorporating blue vintage bottles as this would give our centerpieces that extra pop of color. My sister-in-law recently included a special post with this idea on her blog, The Shabby Garden, and I am totally sold!

So folks, I am on the hunt for the beautiful bottles at an affordable price so please let me know if you have any suggesstions on where I can find them! Or if you have any ideas that are similar...please pass them along.

Make You Feel My Love

2010-02-14T18:11:00.004-06:00

Happy Valentines Day everyone! May today bring you joy and happiness while celebrating with loved ones!

I could make you happy, make your dreams come true

Nothing that I wouldn't do

Go to the ends of the earth for you

To make you feel my love

-Make You Feel My Love-

Adele

DIY: Gift Spruce Up

2010-02-06T21:04:00.000-06:00

As a bride-to-be, I know first hand how important each detail can be for the wedding. Each detail becomes much more special when you have the opportunity to put your personal touch on it. Here's a great DIY project to spruce up your bridesmaids jewelry gifts. In a few simple steps, you can create a beautiful presentation for your gifts that will be sure to impress your girls!

{DIY Project Courtesy of Design Sponge}

Hanging With Love

2010-02-01T21:11:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited about this next special find I recently stumbled upon while browsing through Etsy (something I spend far too much time on every day)!

I've always adored photos of wedding dresses hanging just before the bride steps into them. This personalized hanger would make this shot extra special and is a piece one could hold onto for years to come. Perhaps it could become a family heirloom that is passed down through generations. Bottom line, it is too darn cute to pass up!

{Photo Courtesy of LilaFrances}

Message-In-A-Cookie Cutters

2010-01-31T10:03:00.001-06:00

I was poking around Williams-Sonoma's web site and found these really neat cookie cutters. These nifty tools would create great personalized cookie favors for wedding guests - whether they are added to each guest place setting or to a dessert buffet. I think I may just have to pick a few up!

{Images Courtesy of Williams-Sonoma}

Real Weddings: A Magnificent DIY Michigan Wedding

2010-01-30T14:22:00.000-06:00

Today's real wedding feature was found on a favorite wedding Blog, Style Me Pretty. This gorgeous DIY bride created an unbelievably beautiful wedding full of personality, vintage charm and handcrafted details.

The wedding was held on beautiful Mackinc Island, Michigan. The bride crafted everything from the table linens, cake toppers, flowers, and all of the paper goods. The wedding color scheme is fun and spunky - perfect for an outdoor vintage summer wedding. I absolutely love every detail of this wedding!

I especially love the unique and colorful photo backdrop, not mention the handmade mustache props. I have to admit, I'm still on the mustache band wagon. It's such a quirky and cute detail that will spice up any photo.

The wedding stationary is incredibly charming, featuring beautiful details from Mackinac Island. The carriage and bicycle are perfect representations of this Northern Michigan Island where motor vehicles are not permited. This island is full of nostalgia and old world charm!

{Images courtesy of Style Me Pretty}

Sweet Treats

2010-01-20T22:17:00.001-06:00

Wedding favors are extremely tough! I mean it truly is an industry of its' own with endless ideas and options for every style, theme and setting.

Most wedding favors I've received are nice in theory but do I really want a framed photo of a couple I hardly know or will I really use this bar of soap with the bride and grooms' initials engraved?

When it came time to select our wedding favors, John and I really wanted to come up with something that guests would truly enjoy and yet have the personal touch we wanted. So we've decided on a "Sweet Treats" buffet full of homeade family favorite cookies, candy, bars, pies and more!

This tasty helping of sugar will not only fulfill those evening sweet tooths, but it will also be something heartfelt and homeade that we can share with our guests - from our family to yours!

Bridesmaids By My Side

2009-12-20T14:36:00.000-06:00

My fiance and I are truly blessed to have such wonderful family and friends in our lives and are very excited to have many of them be a part of our bridal party. Being surrounded by those closest to John and I will make the wedding that much more special!

When asking friends and family to be my bridesmaids, I wanted to make the experience special so I sent each of them a personalized card.

{Courtesy of Dazzling Expressions Handcrafted Event Stationary}

Whether it is a personalized card, a special piece of jewelry, or a unique frame to display a picture of you and your bridesmaids, your girls will love the personal touch and its something they can hold on to for years to come!

Cufflinks

2009-12-19T23:31:00.006-06:00

Regardless of whether or not the groom will wear them again, cufflinks are an accessory totally worth investing in for the big day. Rather than the traditional silver or gold cufflinks, why not select something that truly reflects personality and interests such as a favorite sports team or movie, or better yet personalize them with the wedding date and names of the bride and groom. The possibilities are endless, many of which will not break the bank.

{Courtesy of ConnieGibbens}

{Courtesy of Cuftlynx}

My fiance, John recently picked out the following on Etsy and they are absolutely perfect. He loves his boy, Abe!

{Courtesy of Belamodaa rtist}

Congratulations to Bridal Buzz

2009-12-14T12:32:00.004-06:00

My sister-in-law's blog, Bridal Buzz is featured in the the January issue of BRIDES Magazine as one of the top 10 bridal blogs! Kristin's blog, Bridal Buzz is praised for its' creative DIY wedding projects and unique invitation ideas.

Congratulations, Kristin! You certainly deserve this amazing recognition and then some!

So what are you waiting for...check out Bridal Buzz today!

Ring Bowl

2009-12-13T12:25:00.000-06:00

A fabulous spin on the classic ring bearer pillow - a ring bowl. This beautiful peice created by Paloma's Nest can be personalized with couples' names, a phrase from their vows or the wedding date. Unlike a pillow, this is something you can continue to cherish and display for years.

The First Dance

2009-12-02T22:25:00.002-06:00

Oh, the first dance as Mr. & Mrs. What a magical moment for all newlyweds, I know I'm looking forward to mine! So why not spotlight this special moment in the begining of the reception? When the formal announcement is made to welcome the bride and groom, go right into the first dance rather than waiting until after dinner when you are less likely to have everyone's attention. Plus, I think it would be a neat way to lead into thanking your guests for being a part of your special day.

[Photo courtesy of Toole Art Photography]

Real Wedding Fridays: Country Romance

2009-11-27T17:15:00.008-06:00

Each Friday, I will feature a real wedding that has brought inspiration to me and perhaps will spark an idea for you as well. I continue to be floored by the amount of creativity and personality behind these weddings and I feel the need to share with you all! I hope you enjoy!

Today's real wedding features one with rustic charm and clean, modern style.

Everything about this wedding screams casual romance! I adore the invitations - A Summer Fairy Tale. What guest wouldn't want to be part of this event?

I can't get over the bride's beautiful bouquet of blush pink peonies. Simply gorgeous!

I've always been a fan of the vintage milk glass vases but could not come up with a classic way of displaying them at a wedding. Now I know! This elegant display would be the perfect backdrop for your guestbook table or escort and place cards.

Lastly, I'm in love with the wedding colors. The soft pink is the perfect compliment to the bold apple green.

{Courtesy of 100 Layer Cake}

Birdcage Veils

2009-11-19T23:27:00.002-06:00

Like the wedding gowns they are worn with, veils can be traditional, modern, vintage, and simple. All unique in their own way, a veil adds that perfect special touch to a bride's wedding day look.

I've always envisioned myself in a traditional cathedral or elbow length veil with all the "poof" and volume one could ever care for. That was however until I purchased "The Dress" and my idea of the perfect veil completely changed. After trying on many various styles with my gown, I fell in love with the vintage birdcage veils as they are completely and utterly classic and timeless. Not only do they a simple sophistication about them; birdcage veils can easily be coordinated with wedding jewelry and fun hair accessories.

DIY Photo Booth

2009-11-08T19:35:00.001-06:00

I love photos! So, perhaps that is why I'm overly excited about our DIY wedding photo booth! I stumbled upon this genious idea months ago and immediately knew we'd have to include at our reception. Our photographer will be capturing these special moments created by our friends and family. We'll provide props to encourage creative and goofy shots. I think this is something everyone can have fun with and will make some awesome photos for John and I to keep for years to come!

Pie Pops

2009-10-31T16:28:00.000-05:00

My fiance and I are crazy about pie! Apple, blueberry and pecan....you name it, we love it! In fact, it is the one dessert I have mastered (thanks to my mom's amazing pie crust recipe).

I recently stumbled across pie pops. Pie on a stick - simply genious! These adorable sweet treats would be the perfect addition to our reception's dessert table.

{Tuturial from Luxirare and Bakerella}

Beautiful Blooms

2009-10-28T07:22:00.000-05:00

Something about peonies and hydrangeas just screams vintage elegance to me. I can't resist these dreamy blooms and hope to incorporate both on my wedding day. For florals, I would like to pair light and feathery peonies with full hydrangea blooms.

To complete this perfect picture, lots and lots of candles!

Bridal Buzz

2009-10-22T10:23:00.011-05:00

Since the engagement, I've fallen in love with several wedding related blogs, most of which you can find under the "Inspiration" section on my blog. One of my favorites that I've been following for almost 2 years belongs to my sister-in-law, Kristin Cronkright. Her blog, Bridal Buzz, is a wonderful collection of wedding and party inspirations, brought to you straight from the mind of an invitation designer.

I also have the pleasure of having Kristin create our wedding invitations and stationary. Her handmade, custom invitations at RSVP Invitation Studio, offer something for every style. I'm very excited about our customized invitations and will soon have a sneakpeak to share with you all!

Be sure to check out Kristin's delightful stationary at her shop RSVP Invitation Studio where you can find everything from wedding invitations, baby announcements, holiday greeting cards, and unique gifts for that special someone!

Thank you Kristin for your inspiration!

Capture The Moment

2009-10-14T22:59:00.001-05:00

I can't begin to express how excited John and I are about our wedding photographer! We will have the pleasure of working with Crystal and Mike of Toole Art Photography, who perfectly blend a mixture of modern photojournalistic and classic photography styles. Their ability to capture every detail will allow John and I to revisit our wedding day year after year and get lost in the love, laughter, and joy that will be shared with friends and family on this special day.

Here are just a few of my favorite moments captured by Toole Art Photography.

Photos courtesy of Toole Art Photography's blog.

Perfect Palette: Seaglass & Blush Pink

2009-10-11T13:23:00.002-05:00

I must say that I've thoroughly enjoyed the process of planning the wedding of my dreams thus far. Most decisions have come quite easily and without hesitation. I will admit that I've been in awe of all things wedding related since I was a young girl and have had a pretty clear vision of what this special day should look like. However this vision became quite blurry when it was time to select a theme and color palette for the wedding - due not to a lack of inspirational ideas but rather to the fact that I was drooling over too many and simply could not make up my mind.

Well folks, the battle is over and I could not be happier with our choice! The painting below was the original inspiration. Found by my sister-in-law, Kristin, this combination of soft seaglass and blush pink tones immediately caught my eye and inspired this perfect color palette.

This color palette is incredibly calming yet interesting and unexpected! It's the perfect combination to set the tone for a modern spin on vintage elegance. Here are just a few inspiring details that I've fallen in love with.

Blissfully In Love

2009-10-07T22:28:00.003-05:00

Welcome to my blog, Finding Bliss In Love! Five years ago, I met my best friend, John. On May 30, 2009 - John made me the happiest girl in the world by asking to have my hand in marriage.

This blog was created to capture the inspiration and excitement around the planning of our wedding. I hope you enjoy!