Lauren Michele Weddings

Bohemian Inspiration Shoot from A Girl and A Camera

2011-07-05T22:35:00.000-07:00

I love camping and I absolutely adore weddings, so naturally this photo shoot from Jennifer of A Girl + A Camera Photography caught my eye! The colors, the rustic tent and the intimacy all make this shoot just perfect. See the full shoot here.

Style Those Locks

2011-05-22T21:27:00.000-07:00

I am obsessed with finding new ways to display my hair. Whether you're a bridesmaid, bride, mother of the bride or wedding guest, you are going to want to show off your tresses on the big day. Here are some looks that I am loving right now...

Soft tousled and braided up-dos via The Eclectic Life.

Dramatic, chic hair piece from bando.

Beautiful twisted pony via Project Wedding.

The Art of Gift Giving

2011-05-14T15:05:00.000-07:00

It can be difficult to think of the perfect gifts to give to your bridal party. I mean, how many candles can one person really have? As the bride, I am sure that you want to to give all of your attendants something special, but eventually the practicality sets in and you are forced to find gifts that you can actually afford. For my own wedding this was a huge challenge with 10 bridesmaids and 12 groomsmen. Eventually I got creative and found a way to give our bridal party gifts they bragged to their other friends about. To help you consider some budget gift options, here is a collection of some unique gifts that are all under $30. And I adore all of them!

Gals: BefoRE Sun Made In the Shade Self-Tanner $28 from Arbonne; Pretty Cupcake Kit $19.99 from ModCloth; Chalk-A-Doodle Coasters $12 from Francesca's Collections; Castle Key Bottle Opener $12 from Anthropologie

Guys: Mustache Bandages $7 from Urban Outfitters; You The Man Mug $15 from Lenny Mud; Leather Pocket Phone Case $18.95 from The Fig Leaf; The Mustache Grower's Guide $9.99 from ModCloth

Engagement Session from Ripon Photography

2011-04-17T09:39:00.000-07:00

I love engagement shoots! I have featured some really lovely work this week, but this spring picnic shoot from Ripon Photography might just be my favorite. The colors and the lighting are absolutely perfect and Andrew & Julie are just so in love!

Aren't they so cute?

Cake as Decor

2011-04-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

I will be honest, I do not particularly like the taste of cake. Well, at least not the taste of most cakes. Perhaps my dislike for the classic wedding dessert comes from my younger days of catering cookie cutter wedding receptions at a country club in San Diego. Too much slimy frosting, not enough cake. My husband feels the same about cake and so for our wedding, we decided to serve ice cream instead. The ice cream was a huge hit, but I did sort of miss having a beautiful cake as part of our reception decor. These gorgeous cakes are simplistic, yet really add something to the day's celebration.

Beautiful texture from Merci New York

Unique and fun cake from Procopio Photography by Kendalls Cakes

Several pretty cakes via Sweet Tooth

Natural inspiration from Aaron Delesie Photography via Style Me Pretty

This Week In Weddings

2011-04-15T09:02:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I LOVE weddings! Sometimes I peruse the blogosphere searching for amazing wedding inspiration and come up empty handed. I see so many weddings that occasionally I get bored with what I see out there. Repeated photo shoots, overdone motifs. Today, I am excited to be featuring fresh wedding inspiration found on the web this week.

1. Engagement shoot from Brandon Kidd Photography- featured on Green Wedding Shoes.

2. Bright, fun engagement photos from Axioo Photography- featured on Grey Likes Weddings.

3. AMAZING paper record player invitation from Kelli Anderson.

4. New items from BHLDN! I'm so smitten with this shop xoxo

Engagement Session from A Girl and A Camera Photography

2011-04-14T17:59:00.000-07:00

I have been in love with San Francisco based A Girl and A Camera Photography ever since my friends Joelle & Lance had their wedding photographed by Jennifer last year. Her work is so beautiful and intimate that I often find myself on her blog wishing I had a reason to be photographed! Today I am featuring the engagement session of Cristina & Greg. I love the story these pictures tell. See the full shoot here. Enjoy!

Emma & Pete: Surprise Wedding!

2011-04-02T08:09:00.000-07:00

I love love LOVE this wedding that was featured on Rock n Roll Bride this week! Emma & Pete are just about the cutest couple I have ever seen! With Emma being an amazing wedding photographer these two had trouble planning a wedding that would live up to the beautiful weddings she saw every weekend. After about 3 years of engagement, they threw a surprise wedding disguised as a 30th birthday party for the bride. What an amazing 30th birthday!

Head over to Rock n Roll Bride to read the rest of the story and see all the lovely photos. Their photo booth was such a hit- the pictures tell an amazing story of guests having the time of their lives!

Here is a fabulous video to give you a little taste of their magical day :)

Emma & Pete from cine8 on Vimeo.

Photography Credit: Steve Gerrard Photography & Joanna Brown Photography

Real Wedding: Lindsey & Chad

2011-03-30T19:37:00.000-07:00

Friends of mine, Lindsey & Chad, got married this past weekend! I love the sneak preview shots from their photographer Tim Sohn Studios so much that I had to share them! Lindsey was a stunning bride!

Photography: Tim Sohn Studios; Venue: Murietta's Well

Bridal Accessories from Twigs & Honey

2011-03-25T19:20:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Twigs & Honey's amazing collection of hair adornments. They are perfect! Right?

Working With The Great Outdoors

2011-03-25T18:18:00.000-07:00

Happy weekend, dear readers! In the midst of a severe rain storm, I have summer weddings on my mind. When planning an outdoor wedding, it is best to think of ways to incorporate your environment into your design. This helps create consistency for your event and it can often cut back on some seriously pricey costs. Be creative and have fun with your designs. Here are some great ideas to get you started.

If you are getting married in a rustic, barn setting consider this fun way to display your escort cards. Wagon wheels are super cool on their own, but they serve double duty this way!

Carrie Patterson via OnceWed

If you are in need of extra seating, try making hay a comfortable place for guests to rest. Seems impossible? It may be a challenge, but look how a few pillows and some fabric can really transform the seating.

Dixie Pixel Photography via Elizabeth Anne Designs

Looking for some more rustic details? Create one of these amazing DIY cake stands.

For instructions and materials list visit OnceWed

Whatever you do, don't be afraid to set the stage for a grand affair. It is a wedding after all, even if you are in the great outdoors.

via Wedding Bee

via Covet Living

Some people are just so creative :)

Party, Please

2011-02-15T20:26:00.000-08:00

The Hitched Palm Springs wedding event (put on last month by the beautiful ladies of bash, please & urbanic paper) looked like a blast! This video really showcases the fun of throwing a brilliant party. And what is a wedding really all about if it isn't a truly incredible party and excuse to dance your booty off? Exactly!

Hitched Palm Springs from Shark Pig on Vimeo.

All my Lovin'

2011-02-14T17:48:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day, lovers! And when I say "lovers" I am not necessarily referring to couples, but people who are IN LOVE...with their home, their pets or their latest addition to their shoe collection! Today I wanted to take some time to feature a few of the things I am IN LOVE with this week.

1. My husband.

Isn't he cute?

photo by: Casey Mackenzie Photography

2. My job as an english teacher.

photo by: Selena Lake

3. Yummy sweets!

oreo stuffed chocolate chip cookies from Picky Palate

4. Incredible music.

mumford & sons, dyan, avett brothers.

adele.

edward sharpe & the magnetic zeros.

5. B H L D N.

There is so much to be in love with this week! Happy Monday :)

Engagement Sesh from Ulmer Studios

2011-01-16T09:59:00.000-08:00

Just had to share this adorable couple's engagement shoot and love for music! Ulmer Studios captures this simple romance beautifully. Super cool shades pic too. Now I am definitely dreaming of outdoor picnics and summer! More of this shoot is featured on the super fun musically inspired blog, Hi-Fi Weddings.

Palm Springs Wedding Event!

2011-01-16T09:16:00.000-08:00

The wonderful ladies over at bash, please & urbanic paper have collected a group of FABULOUS vendors and genius event stylists to share some wedding inspiration at their annual Hitched event. Taking place on January 30th at the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs, their vendor list includes 100 Layer Cake, The Life Styled, Love me Sailor Photography (all of whom I adore!) and the Aqualillies! That's right, synchronized swimmers! See their website for the full details. I am bummed that I won't be able to make it, but it seems like one hell of a party for brides, grooms, and any interested parties.

Antlers. All the Rage?

2011-01-15T08:46:00.000-08:00

I seem to be stumbling across more pictures of antlers lately. No, I am not perusing hunting blogs. It appears that this accessory once only used in ski lodges and establishments housing societies of old men has become mainstream in fashion and decor. I am going to go out on a limb here and say that antlers are the new black. Although it might not be your first choice of wedding design elements, you have to admit antlers can be a great way to create a unique, show stopping environment. These are some of my favorite favorite antler infused images. How do you feel about the antler motif? Let me know!

Photography by KMD Creations, Ben Christensen and Melissa Zihlman Photography respectively

Inspiration Board: Winter with a Touch of Mustard

2011-01-14T09:28:00.000-08:00

It has been a while since I have created my own authentic inspiration board, but I just love these images and needed to share them! The warm brown tones contrast with the teal and mustard yellow to create such a wonderful look for a winter wedding. The light, flowery hanging garland is a great way to enclose an outdoor space making a ceremony or reception feel more intimate. And this dress from Sarah Seven is just so perfect, especially paired with this adorable side pony and headband. Sidenote, I just LOVE bangs! Check out more of Sarah Seven's gorgeous collection!

From top to bottom, photography by: Fuse Photographic, Cappy Hotchkiss Photography, Sarah Seven Collections, Sedona Bride Photographers.

Engagement Video!

2011-01-11T17:38:00.000-08:00

I just HAD to share this engagement video from Loren Brinton Films! This incredibly adorable couple puts a twist on antiquated newspaper engagement announcement. Wish I would have thought of this for my wedding!

Lex & Loren - Engagement/Save the date! from Loren Brinton Films on Vimeo.

Check out their beautifully creative wedding featured over at Green Wedding Shoes.

OMG-- check out this dress!

2010-12-06T20:01:00.000-08:00

I was in the middle of blogging about something completely different when I came across this picture and immediately changed directions, knowing I had to post this dress instantly. Talk about utterly gorgeous feminine details! This dress from Temperley London is everything a girl (namely this girl!) could ever dream of. I adore the way the shorter front allows for a sexy glimpse of the bride's leg like a classy piece of lingerie. The sleeves floating on her shoulders complete this absolute perfect gown! Glorious! See more photos from this Southern Weddings magazine shoot at Green Wedding Shoes.

Hair piece: Lo Boheme
Photography: Stephanie Williams

Sunday Funday!

2010-11-14T08:22:00.000-08:00

This week I spent several hours hibernating under blankets awaiting the end of my terrible head cold. Unfortunately I was too sick to even post, but this weekend I have made a critical comeback and I have some GREAT treasures for you to check out...

1. Do your own wedding hair
2. Sweet Treats + Bridesmaid Gifts under $40
3. I want this home for my books!
4. A bride with some serious style...I NEED these shoes!
5. Custom napkins add a custom touch
6. Obsessed with anything pumpkin flavored??
7. Perfect variety of holiday photo cards

Photography: Jagger Photography

Real Wedding: Danny & Marisa

2010-11-10T17:51:00.000-08:00

Danny and Marisa are truly a gorgeous couple! They also happen to be two of my favorite people I "inherited" when my husband and I started dating. I featured their adorable engagement session back in February. Today I have the privilege of featuring their beautiful vineyard wedding, which was an elegant and romantic affair for friends and family to celebrate their love for each other. And boy, are these two in love! These pictures perfectly capture this "perfect pear."

From the bride, Marisa...

It all started with the invitation. We were having a tough time drawing inspiration for our winery wedding, until we saw and fell in love with our invitation. Titled 'The Perfect Pear...' it was simple and looked hand drawn, and I felt was just really special. We pulled the chocolate browns, pear greens, and cream colors from the invitation and started with that.

My goal for the wedding was for it to just be romantic, and beautiful, and kind of whimsical. I am not a super cookie cutter girl as far as this kind of stuff goes, so I tried to stay as far away from that kind of stuff as possible. We didn't have a real theme...I wanted the location and back drop of the Livermore valley to speak for it's self.

I gave all of the above information to my florist and just told her to go with it, which was a little scary, but she set up our ceremony area exactly as I had imagined it in my head, and everything else ended up beautiful as well.

Florist: Flowers with a Personal Touch (Livermore, CA)
Caterer: Vintage Catering (Fremont, CA)
Photographer: Ben Krantz Studio (Oakland, CA)
Bridesmaid Dresses: Bari Jay (BariJay.Com, purchased at Gesinees Bridal- Concord, CA)
Wedding Dress: Nicole Pronovias (Purchased at Le Boutique Des Brides--San Francisco, CA)
Hair: The Beauty Lounge (Brentwood, CA)

Love in a Pumpkin Patch

2010-11-06T11:51:00.000-07:00

I love visiting pumpkin patches. I would even say that I love visiting pumpkin patches more than I love buying or carving pumpkins themselves. There is something so whimsical, even magical about walking through a field of pumpkins and rows of corn stalks that I look forward to every autumn. This year my husband and I didn't get a chance to go to a pumpkin patch, but luckily Jill Thomas Photography perfectly captured the romance of this experience with these pictures from Bryn & Chris's wedding. See more pictures at The Bride's Cafe.

Invitations: Ello There

2010-11-05T13:59:00.000-07:00

I have been a huge fan of the Etsy shop Ello There since I first blogged these save the dates back in December. Based in Seattle, this couple, Seth & Maddy, have created a quirky line of unique invitations that seriously make me want to get married again JUST for the invitations!

I love these hand drawn watercolor illustration invites.

They have mastered the popular bike motif.

And with my day job being a high school English teacher, I am oddly drawn to this personal save the date.

Cranberry & Peach Inspiration from Snippet & Ink

2010-11-05T13:29:00.000-07:00

I heart Snippet & Ink. This adorable blog, sharing daily wedding inspiration, often features creative inspiration boards that I usually oggle at for hours at a time. I am mad about the details these boards feature and the latest board is no exception. The fruit on this cake is gorgeous and I am loving the cranberry shoes!

Credits courtesy of Snippet & Ink
Top row from left: buttercream cake with late summer fruit from Martha Stewart Weddings, photo of red sweater and pin curls by Amanda Pratt, photo of Max Gill bouquet by Meg Smith
Row 2: peach garden rose via Automatism, photo of red shoes by Elizabeth Messina
Row 3: centerpiece with red dahlias by Ariella Chezar (photo by Meg Smith), vintage silverware from Napa Style, Karmann Ghia photo by Polly Alexandre
Row 4: envelope with red calligraphy and vintage stamps from Martha Stewart Weddings, red apple photo by Karen Wise, centerpiece with peach roses and pomegranates from Martha Stewart Weddings

Bridal Bling!

2010-11-05T13:03:00.000-07:00

Picking jewelry to wear on the big day can be a huge decision. Every picture of a bride will showcase these jewels so you want to make sure the jewelry you choose compliments your dress and veil as well as your personality. Of course if you are traditional, you may already have some borrowed jewels from your mother or grandmother in mind. For the rest of us stylish brides, we have Anthropologie, Nordstrom & J. Crew. Take a look at some of their latest jewels.

Anthropologie

Nordstrom

J.Crew

Invitations: Two for Joy Paper Studio

2010-11-05T10:05:00.000-07:00

The best and worst part about selecting invitations is the impact that invitations make on your guests. They set the scene for what guests can expect at the actual event. Keeping this in mind, selecting an invitation can be stressful. To help make your lives just a little easier I am beginning a series focusing on highlighting some truly fabulous places to find your invitations. Stumbling around Etsy, I came across the Two for Joy Paper Studio and this adorable bridal shower invite that would have been pretty darn perfect for the theme of my own wedding!

The Two for Joy Paper Studio has some other really great designs too, like this fabulous menu! This would be perfect for a glamorous dinner party, rehearsal dinner, or wedding. Check out more of her great work here!

Inspired by Autumn

2010-11-03T17:17:00.000-07:00

What inspires design? What breeds creativity and allows it to flourish in your home and in your events?

I know in my home design may depend on a variety of random factors: my favorite colors, an old piece of furniture that has been kept in the family, or the bedding that is on sale at Target the week my dog throws up on the duvet cover. However random design may be at times, occasionally we get the chance to be inspired and select decor that reflects this inspiration.

This time of year I become incredibly inspired by the natural beauty of my surroundings. Driving home from work I see the foothills backlit by a descending sun in a way that I do not get to see during the spring and summer months. The colors of autumn leaves creep their way into blankets I crochet or curtains I purchase while pumpkins become my front porch and table top decor of choice.

During this season inspiration is everywhere. If you are planning a fall wedding or smaller scale event in the near future don't forget to turn off the computer and take a look outside. Sometimes the inspiration you need is right in front of you.

What inspires you? Let us know.

Photo: The Inspired Room

Sunday Funday!

2010-10-31T11:13:00.000-07:00

This Halloween morning began as a lazy day of browsing the Internet in search of little gems to inspire my wedding musings for the week. I thought I'd share a few of these fun nuggets with you. Enjoy! Happy Halloween :)

1. I love yellow bridesmaid dresses!
2. If I could, I would buy one of these dresses...
3. Creative maps for your event
4. Beautiful wedding...Rock that photo booth
5. Tons of "trash the dress" photos
6. Did you say Pumpkin Mojito Bar?? Yum!

Simply Rosie Photography

My Wedding, Finally!

2010-10-30T17:24:00.000-07:00

Seeing how it is the end of October, I am sure that you all have just been dying to hear about my July wedding that I have been planning since the creation of this blog. To assure you, my wedding was, in fact, the best day of my life to date! With so many friends and family members surrounding me and my husband with love and support, how could it not be the best day? And with so many custom touches that reflected our life together it was sure to be a perfect day.

Our wedding ceremony and reception was held entirely at Crooked Vine Winery in our adorable hometown in Northern California. The event included just under 200 guests, 11 groomsmen, and 9 bridesmaids. Combining my husband's Jewish background and our passion for teaching created quite a unique celebration with school-themed decor (including composition notebooks as centerpieces and a yearbook made out of our guests' high school photos for our guestbook) and a traditional hora dance. Other unique elements included a homemade photo booth and ice cream cones instead of cake. To sum it up, our wedding was a PARTY!

A few disclaimers before you view the pictures:
1. As a DND enthusiast (Dungeons and Dragons, for those of you unfamiliar with the role playing game's abbreviation), my husband has always dreamed of straddling a horse while wearing a cape and wielding a sword.
2. My apologies for the length of this post. Over 1,000 pictures were taken by our photographer and there are several that I simply HAVE TO include.

The details...
Event Planner/Coordinator: Lauren Michele Weddings (yours truly :))
Venue: Crooked Vine Winery- Livermore, CA
Photography: Casey MacKenzie Photography
Flowers: Knodt's Flowers
My Dress: Dana's Bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses: J. Crew
Groom & groomsmen Ties: Tux & Tulle

Used Wedding Dresses: YES!

2010-10-03T21:31:00.000-07:00

As an avid shopper I am thrilled when I happen upon a great sale! Combine that with my passion for weddings and I don't know what could be more amazing than a sale on bridal dresses! That's why I adore Once Wed's Used Wedding Dresses section. They have a great selection of used gowns with discounted prices. What a great idea, right? Unfortunately, I didn't know this site existed when I was planning my wedding or I would have searched here first. Here are some of the awesome dresses currently listed!

Outdoor Summer Bridal Shower

2010-08-25T20:57:00.000-07:00

It was over 100 degrees on the day of my June bridal shower. Despite the challenges of sweaty legs and frizzy hair it was an absolutely perfect afternoon shared with wonderful women from all parts of my life. The look was designed to set the scene for our outdoor winery wedding the following month so we used the same mason jars and hanging flags to keep with the theme.

My first wifely craft project...

2010-08-25T20:43:00.000-07:00

I adore this Flag Book Cookbook found on Etsy's How-Tuesday post this week. Cooking is a new passion of mine, which is great because food has always been a passion of mine. Looking for creative ways to store delicious recipes can be difficult, but this looks like fun and it is really cute. What a creative and fun bridal shower gift! I think I will make one of these for myself.

A welcome back treat...

2010-08-25T20:24:00.000-07:00

I have to apologize that this post is long overdue! It seems that this summer escaped me and I haven't had any time for blogging (or stalking other people's adorable blogs) in ages. Now that my wedding shower, bachelorette party and WEDDING have all flown by since my last post I have A LOT of catching up to do!

I thought I would start my first post as a married woman with a shout out to my friend Mrs. Pink over at The Pink and Blue Blog. She always posts the most beautiful, fun and YUMMY pictures. Check out this awesome Mocha Crepe Cake recipe she blogged about last week courtesy of home life. I am dying to make this for some lucky bride's shower or bachelorette party soon. Any takers?

Shoe Envy!

2010-06-17T22:46:00.000-07:00

Love. Love. Love. Love. Love!

Photography: Caroline Tran

Yellow and Black Never Looked So Good!

2010-06-17T20:48:00.000-07:00

I am in LOVE with yellow weddings and this one is on the top of my list this week! Photographer Amanda Rae and coordinators Lindsay and Brittany of Sugar Branch Events put together an absolutely stunning, fun wedding! Their killer venue is The Park in fabulous Palm Springs.

Something Blue Bridal Shower

2010-05-21T19:38:00.000-07:00

It is my opinion that bridal showers should be about much more than the bride receiving gifts. It is also my opinion that "much more" does not include an abundance of cliche shower games. I love this "something blue" themed shower from Hostess With The Mostess complete with crafting feather hair fascinators doubling as favors for the guests. But what I love the most is the fun photo shoot! What a great idea, right? I know, I wish I had thought of it too!

Etsy Love

2010-04-16T08:13:00.000-07:00

As some of you may very well know, I am in love with etsy.com! Etsy is an awesome with thousands of shops offering handmade and vintage goods. Today I am going to show you a few of my favorite shops this week.

Note <3 Trunk has a variety of custom, modern vintage, wood handle address stamps. I need to get one of these!

Tux & Tulle offers hand sewn vintage cotton or silk dupioni neckties & ringbearer pillows. Absolutely perfect!

Lo Bohome (Tux & Tulle's daughter!) is a shop containing a variety of vintage inspired hairpieces, veils & garters. Beautiful!

Ello There has a variety of wonderful invitations, save the date cards & posters. They are simply adorable and I seriously want everything they sell!

Engagement Session from Casey MacKenzie Photography

2010-04-16T07:39:00.000-07:00

More stunning work from the woman doing my own wedding photography: Casey MacKenzie. Enjoy!

Wedding Coordination Giveaway!!

2010-04-09T13:53:00.000-07:00

Attention Brides: I, Lauren Michele, am doing the unthinkable. I am offering three lucky brides awesome wedding day coordination for FREE! Enjoy being in love on your big day without making sure the day runs smoothly. The first three brides to contact me @ laurenmicheleweddings@gmail.com will receive this incredible offer!

Photography: Casey MacKenzie Photography

Real Wedding: New York

2010-04-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

New York is a city to love and a city for love. These images make NYC even more irresistible!

Thank you Erik Ekroth Photography.

Real Wedding: iKLiKphoto

2010-04-09T08:05:00.000-07:00

I found this wedding from iKLiKphoto featured on the 100 Layer Cake blog. I love the color and FUN that is captured in these images.

Don't you just love the shot at 7-Eleven? Perfect! See more photos on iKLiKphoto or 100 Layer Cake.

DIY Ice Cream Cupcakes!

2010-04-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

Loving this delicious treat from Jayne Harrison via Dog N' Bird Artful Wedding.

Spring Inspiration: Easter

2010-04-04T08:52:00.000-07:00

These images from Country Living via The Ritzy Bee Blog are so pretty. I am in love with the mismatched table settings, sweet flowers, and COLOR!

Engagement Session from Blue Kite Photography

2010-04-03T19:30:00.000-07:00

Blue Kite Photography is an awesome company that captures perfectly magical images of love. The following "love shoot" is just an example of the beautiful work they do. I love polaroids!

Colorful Lanterns!

2010-04-01T18:51:00.000-07:00

I spent all of three minutes surfing the web today before these glorious lanterns caught my eye! They are simple, adorable, and add that extra pop of color that I would love to have at my wedding. I love the way these lanterns bring this barn setting to life. The lighting was created by Carmel PlantTenders.

Gorgeous & Unique Gown

2010-03-31T16:06:00.000-07:00

I am in LOVE with this bride and her dress! Not only is it absolutely stunning, but the bride designed it herself. She also owns a bridal shop in NYC called Lovely. Photography: 4 Eyes Photography.

Adorable DIY Project: Dupioni Silk Flowers

2010-03-13T07:12:00.000-08:00

I am always looking for more DIY ideas for my own event so I thought I would share my favorite idea I found this week. This idea comes from Posh Paperie's blog. Head over to the blog to find out all the details on how to create these delicate beauties.

Real Wedding: Vis Photography

2010-03-09T17:35:00.000-08:00

While snooping around on Green Wedding Shoes' blog today I saw this wedding and I just could not resist putting up a couple pictures from this beautifully unique California celebration. The wonderful pictures by Vis Photography really capture the casually elegant day. Love it!

Let Them Eat Cake!

2010-03-08T17:25:00.000-08:00

Monday's are always a bit crazy for me and today is no exception. Unfortunately, I don't have much time to post today, but I will leave you with a beautiful cake from Martha Stewart Weddings. Perfection!

Celebrity Fashion Inspiration: Red Carpet

2010-03-06T16:55:00.000-08:00

With the Oscars tomorrow night, I wanted to highlight some of my favorite outfits from the Grammy and Golden Globe red carpets earlier this year. Here are some of the highlights.

For the groom...The Jonas Brothers and Adrian Grenier are bringing some heat in these retro styles. I adore the skinny ties and classic black and white color palette.

For the bride... these beauties are stunning! Carrie Underwood's neckline (middle) bring so much interest to an otherwise very simple dress. And Keri Hison (right) looks absolutely perfect in the trumpet-style dress shape. The jeweled belt around the middle is absolutely amazing!

Another Etsy Shop Highlight: Mandizzle

2010-03-05T17:48:00.000-08:00

I realize that the theme of many of my blogs recently have been about hair accessories for brides and bridesmaids, but perhaps that is because I am in pursuit of some really cute headbands. After shopping around, Mandizzle may just be where I make my purchase. I think what I like most about this shop is the variety in color, fabric, and size. Here are a few of my favorites.

Elegant Vintage Inspiration

2010-03-04T22:36:00.000-08:00

Thank you Ruffled for the following images.

"Elissa Keno styled this tablescape in turquoise, yellow and natural tones on a vintage inspired design. The gorgeous yellow, pink, and gray bouquet was provided by Tre Bella Bridal as well as the wedding dress (Junko Yoshioka) and earrings. Shot by the wonderful photographer Kellie Kano, in Greensboro, North Carolina."

What do you know about N.E.E.T. Magazine?

2010-03-04T22:28:00.000-08:00

N.E.E.T. Magazine is one of my new favorite places on the web these days. As you know, I am obsessed with etsy shops and vintage accents. This magazine features several of the hottest online vintage clothing boutiques and style tips and picks. With its quarterly issues, N.E.E.T. Magazine offers readers loads of insight into the confusing world of fashion. Perhaps you will find a fabulous gift for your bridesmaids, or an adorable headband or chic piece of jewelry for your own outfit. Who knows? If nothing else you can see yours truly featured on page 52 in an advertisement for my best friend's boutique: lost feather vintage. Bonus!

The Birdcage Veil

2010-03-03T17:29:00.000-08:00

Many brides are choosing birdcage veils for the big day and I don't blame them. The birdcage style is simple, adorable, and classic. Look at some of these beautiful brides sporting this style.

The first bride got her veil at the YJ design etsy shop. I love etsy! Andrena Photography

Captured: Photography By Jenny

Creative Image Collections

Call for Submissions: Real Weddings!

2010-02-26T17:17:00.000-08:00

Hello lovely readers in Blogland! I am calling on all of you photographers to send me some of your new real wedding photographs. Send me your artsy, your simple, your beautiful, and your best images from real weddings and I will post them on my lovely blog :) Let me help you show off all the hard work you do in the chaotic world of bridezillas!

One of my favorite brides...

2010-02-25T17:03:00.000-08:00

Of course I am partial to this bride because she is one of my best friends and will soon find herself walking down an aisle in my wedding. But, I think once you see these awesome pictures from Studio Castillero of her and her new husband, she will be one of your favorite brides too! Simply beautiful!

Etsy Bitsy Monday!

2010-02-22T18:57:00.000-08:00

I love Etsy! I find myself searching this fun site for things I don't need on a daily basis. Here are some of my favorite shops this week.

Check out these adorable notepads from CarzooCritters. Possible wedding favors or gifts to keep the little ones busy at the reception.

I love these "eco friendly bird seed favors" from 2 Birds in Love. They would make great favors!

Great gifts for groomsmen @ Bella Moda Artist.

Southern California Snow

2010-02-19T07:23:00.000-08:00

Studio Castillero is doing some great things. Their recent post from a trash the dress session in the snow (in San Diego!) captures the natural beauty of the bride in a different kind of southern California setting. These photographs are simply perfect!

Undies for your girlies!

2010-02-18T19:20:00.000-08:00

Looking for gifts for your bridesmaids that are a little "outside of the box"? I think these undies from Undies.etsy.com would make the perfect present for your ladies. They are fun and adorable, not to mention comfy. I love these "Whimsical Unmentionables for Sophisticated Ladies." My personal fave are the mustache undies!

Celebrity Fashion Inspiration: Michelle Williams

2010-02-18T13:41:00.000-08:00

I love gawking at what stars wear. Celebrity fashion often inspires my own attire, within my budget! Michelle Williams's knockout number seen below, got my attention. This dress is sexy and classy, a difficult feat to accomplish, but she more than pulls it off. Wouldn't this dress be great for a rehearsal dinner or the wedding after party?

Inspiration Board #3

2010-02-18T08:39:00.000-08:00

I am loving these romantic, soft images. Simply beautiful.

Photography credit: Kristin Vining Photography, Braedon Photography, Carla Ten Eyck Photography
Inspiration from the blogosphere: Style Me Pretty, Green Wedding Shoes,

How adorable is this bride?

2010-02-17T15:40:00.000-08:00

I am loving this post from Rock 'n Roll Bride

The photos by Anna Naphtali Photography perfectly capture how adorable this bride is! I love their style.

Wedding Canvas Art

2010-02-17T15:20:00.000-08:00

Another Etsy shop that I absolutely love is GeeZee's. Using your wedding photos and your vows they create wonderful pieces of art for your home. Love them!

Look at their fun, creative work...

Groomsmen Style

2010-02-17T08:52:00.000-08:00

Check out this Etsy shop for great hand-screened neckties, scarves, and accessories: toybreaker

Inspiration Board #2

2010-02-17T08:30:00.000-08:00

Inspired by my love to travel and my new found obsession with yellow...

Photos found on Style Me Pretty & Green Wedding Shoes

Inspiration Board #1

2010-02-17T06:59:00.001-08:00

Calling all brides-to-be!

2010-02-11T16:47:00.000-08:00

Hello beautiful, engaged women!

I am absolutely obsessed with love & weddings and I would LOVE the opportunity to help you plan your special day! As I am just beginning to work in the wonderful world of wedding planning, I am willing to give you some HUGE DISCOUNTS to help plan your wedding in any capacity. If you need help creating a wedding look that fits you and your fiance's style (and budget!) or just simply need assistance keeping your wedding day stress-free, I can help!

If you are interested please contact me: laurenmicheleweddings@gmail.com

Things I am loving this week...

2010-02-11T16:26:00.000-08:00

This week has been tough. My commute is bugging me and I have been out sick for a few days spending free time in claustrophobic doctors' offices. These things are helping me get through it all.

Red shoe collection

Photography Credit: Open Air Photography, SimplyBloom Photography,

Casey MacKenzie Johnson Photography

2010-02-10T08:35:00.000-08:00

Casey and I have been friends for years and I have always adored her fabulous work behind the camera. She has recently made the switch from "friend who always captures your most ridiculous moments on film (or digital media)" to "professional photographer to the (soon-to-be) stars." Check out her amazing work at her website: http://www.caseymackenziephotography.com/ She would love to capture your family or special event. Her work is often in the Bay Area, but she LOVES to travel :)

Vintage Valentines

2010-02-06T18:02:00.000-08:00

With Valentine's Day looming in the distant future, I am LOVING vintage valentines like these...

Danny & Marisa: Engagement Shoot

2010-02-01T19:43:00.001-08:00

Danny & Marisa are adorable. I have had the pleasure of knowing this gorgeous couple since D and I started dating. Being performers, the two of them are obviously captivating and have no trouble showcasing their love in photographs. These pictures are so fun and so real. Absolutely perfect! Photos: Ben Krantz- www.benkrantz.com

What to wear in your hair...

2009-12-31T10:52:00.000-08:00

I love the look of feathers in hair accessories. Check out these fantastic pieces for your hair or your bridesmaids' hair from YJ Design!

Dogs in Your Ceremony...

2009-12-13T19:53:00.000-08:00

I have often thought that it would be so cool to have a dog in my wedding ceremony. Lately my fiance and I have been seriously scouting around our area for a little puppy to spend our lives with. Inspired by that (and my mid-day movie selection of Marley & Me) I have decided to show you how adorable pups can be in your wedding.

Scott & Ingrid: Engagement Shoot

2009-12-13T19:38:00.000-08:00

I LOVE this engagement shoot in Berkeley, CA by Casey Mackenzie Photography. How cute are the Scrabble pieces? Adorable. You can really see the love here!

Like.com

2009-12-13T12:14:00.000-08:00

So my Maid of Honor introduced me to this awesome website the other night and I am thoroughly enjoying it! Like.com is the ultimate search engine for specific products. I am finding that this is a great way for my bridesmaids to check for dresses that they might like to wear at my wedding. Check it out!

My Inspiration: Fave blogs that got me started

2009-12-11T09:05:00.000-08:00

For the past few months I have been absolutely OBSESSED with blogs! It started with my addiction to wedding blogs soon after my August engagement, my obsession began to trickle into a variety of different inspirational blogs, blogs for decorators, and other random blogs. I wanted to share with you all some of the most inspiring places I have found on the web. Enjoy!

Wedding Blogs...
Green Wedding Shoes
Style Me Pretty
Rock n Roll Bride
Ritzy Bee

Decorator Blogs...
decor8
Making it Lovely

General Blogs...
Oh Joy!

Eleven Bridesmaids

2009-12-11T08:34:00.000-08:00

I LOVE that I will have 11 lovely bridesmaids at my side as I tie the knot next summer! However, finding those perfect dresses for 11 different shapes and sizes can be a difficult task. Another concern I have is that so many beautiful women in the exact same dress could be a bit overwhelming for photography purposes. Thoughts? Here are some bridesmaid looks that I LOVE...

Green Wedding Shoes

Green Wedding Shoes- Photos by Our Labor of Love

Photos: Green Wedding Shoes, In Style Weddings, Style Me Pretty

Save the Date Cards

2009-12-10T22:25:00.000-08:00

ellothere on etsy

irenesuchocki on etsy

Caren & Jesse's Wedding

2009-12-10T21:20:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: Studio Castillero

Purpose.

2009-12-10T20:42:00.000-08:00

After such a prolonged entry into the realm of high-tech writing, I, Lauren Michele, am creating my very first blog entry. Woohoo! My desired purpose for this initially cold space is to cover this page with things that inspire me. I hope to share my ideas and creativity to inspire those, like me, who are planning a wedding or special event in the near future.

Please consider my ideas and designs when you are planning your next special event. I would love to help you create a celebration that is truly unique.

Photo Credit: Casey Mackenzie Photography