BV Weddings

We've Moved!

2008-08-19T09:31:00.002-07:00

Please excuse our dust as we make the transition to our new blog!

www.bvweddings.com/blog

Thank you for your patience.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-08-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

I love these centerpieces.

Photos by Laura Kay

1 Fort Mason Officer's Club Wedding

2008-08-14T19:49:00.000-07:00

Congratulations S & H! On 08.02.08 we witnessed the beautiful union of S & H. I knew from the moment I met S that their wedding would be amazing and I am so honored you chose us to coordinate it. I often become friends with my clients and S is certainly someone I consider a friend. Just check out these beautiful pictures.

The head table

The reception setup

The place setting

Beautiful flowers by Passiflora

Delicious cake by Bravo's Bakery

I can't wait to see the pro pics from HyStudio

BayList Best

2008-08-13T13:16:00.000-07:00

I just got word that we were nominated for the Bay A List. I really don't know what this means or the criteria to be nominated but we are just grateful and honored to be among the likes of Sasha Souza etc.

If you have worked with us before or love our ideas vote for us. Thank you! To see our listing click here.

CTW: 43

2008-08-13T10:11:00.001-07:00

I love these bird themed lanterns. These would be great tied to chairs for aisle decor or on tables at the reception.

Gotta love these colorful wooden buckets.

What a great way to serve a non-alcoholic wine inspired drink.

Cake of the Week

2008-08-12T08:39:00.000-07:00

A beautiful cake by Laurie Lucov.

Happy Birthday T!

2008-08-11T20:13:00.000-07:00

On 07.27.08 we set up for a backyard birthday party for Karen's (Huckleberry Karen Designs) MIL. Karen of course did the fresh and fun centerpieces. I loved the Moire Bee patterned linen that we chose. Happy Birthday T!

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-08-08T07:37:00.001-07:00

I love the color and different heights of these centerpieces.

Laura Novak Photo

CTW: 42

2008-08-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

These chair covers are different and interesting. Maybe for the bride and grooms seat at the reception.

These could be a great alternative to renting costly silverware.

I am in love with these slate placecard holders.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-08-01T08:10:00.001-07:00

Photo by Hy Studio

CTW: 41

2008-07-30T08:30:00.000-07:00

Many brides know that wedding cakes are expensive. They are more like art than cake. If you are daring enough you could always try to DIY the cake. Wendy Kromer offers edible decorations that you can buy like these cute birds.

Looking for a unique thank you card to wow your guests. These will do the trick.

I love these personalized ice cream scoops. They also sell knives, forks and spoons!

These labels are very modern and cool.

Cake of the Week

2008-07-29T07:44:00.000-07:00

Love this whole picture.

Our Labor of Love Photography

Our First Knot....

2008-07-28T12:43:00.000-07:00

A year after we coordinated our first wedding we have made it into a bridal magazine.

Congrats to J & K whose wedding is featured. Here are some pictures we took of their wedding. There is also a gallery of these images taken by the talented Julie Mikos on our main site.

Congratulations C & C

2008-07-26T20:13:00.000-07:00

On 07.12.08 we witnessed the nuptials and celebration of C & C. Both were so nice and their wedding was so beautiful. They chose a Hawaiian theme including orchid leis that greeted guests on their way into the Fort Mason Officer's Club. Thank you so much for letting us be a part of your special day!

The bride's future sister in law has a letterpress and calligraphy company. Lucky girl.....

Escort card display

The place setting.

The bride's mom did the beautiful orchid centerpieces.

Cake by Caroline Wong.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-07-25T09:40:00.001-07:00

Nothing like a simple tablescape.

Punam Bean Photography

One year ago........07.07.08

2008-07-24T18:32:00.000-07:00

After 8 1/2 years together Ricardo and I tied the knot on 07.07.07. It was the greatest day of our lives thus far. For our 1 year anniversary we traveled back up to the Calistoga Ranch and the beautiful Napa Valley. Just outside the entrance to the Calistoga Ranch I spotted this (wish I would have seen it last year....it would have made for a great picture):

I surprised R with a hot air balloon ride. It was our first but certainly not our last:

Obama, LIVESTRONG and the ring flying high.

Lucky for us we got to stay in the same room we stayed in the weekend of our wedding. #133 Creek feels like home:

"Cool Things Wednesdays" is Sweeping the Nation :)

2008-07-24T07:52:00.000-07:00

When Wishpot asked me to be a "wedding expert" I was floored and honored.

When they asked me if they could republish Cool Things Wednesdays for their blog I fell out of my chair.

For those of you unfamiliar with Wishpot you can register for anything your little heart desires. A great site in my opinion. Check them out!

CTW: 40

2008-07-23T08:13:00.001-07:00

What a cute and rustic way to hold pens for your guestbook. From NapaStyle.

I love this message in a bottle invitation. My grass obsession continues...

These silver vessels are elegant and beautiful.

I love this green cake stand.

Cake of the Week

2008-07-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

Looks like an April Reed Cake.
Juniper Images.

Congratulations T & J

2008-07-20T18:28:00.001-07:00

On the Fourth of July we headed down to Fogarty Winery in Woodside. This venue boasts an amazing view which all of T & J's guests were able to experience. T & J were so great to work with and made such a beautiful couple. I wish them tons of happiness and am glad we were able to meet and work with them!

The aisle decor was simple, elegant and beautiful. Nicole Ha provided all florals.

Close up of the arrangements on shepard's hooks.

The escort cards doubled as favors (wine stoppers).

The complete table.

Cards de luxe designed the table numbers, menus, and escort cards.

Cupcakes from Love at First Bite.

Lucky for us T & J hired one of our favorite vendors, Doug Shannon. Here is a picture of him sketching their amazing harpist Anna Maria Mendieta. We were fortunate enough to have Doug sketch us as a warmup almost 1 year after he sketched us on our wedding day!

And last but not least our favorite DJ's BIG FUN Disc Jockeys provided the beats.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-07-18T08:19:00.000-07:00

Next Exit Photography

CTW: 39

2008-07-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

Like J & M I love the idea of using a cork board to line up escort cards.

I love this wood magnetic board! You can get some very cool magnets to hold each escort card.

Talk about a cool wedding favor.

I love these bare steel letters. Can be used to hang on doors leading to a ceremony or reception or anywhere else for that matter.

Cake of the Week

2008-07-15T07:41:00.001-07:00

My green and white obsession continues.....

Photo by Brunk Photography.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-07-11T08:17:00.001-07:00

Another simple yet elegant centerpiece.

Photo by Leigh Miller Photography.

Cake of the Week

2008-07-08T08:12:00.000-07:00

This is a simple and beautiful cake. Jennifer Davis Photography.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-07-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

I love the use of fruits and vegetables in this beautiful centerpiece. Floral Design by Fleur De Vie. Photography by Lisa + James.

Congratulations J & M

2008-07-03T20:02:00.001-07:00

On 06.28.08 we had the pleasure of returning to Andretti Winery in Napa for another beautiful wedding. J & M were so sweet and such an amazing couple. A couple after my own heart as I love green, white and orange as these were our wedding colors. All the details were beautiful and were so honored to coordinate this event. J & M hired a rocking band called The Indestructibles Band. Really, really good. And now for some pictures taken by my business partner and husband.

Guest sign in picture taken by Eclectic Visions Photography. Eclectic Visions was also the photographer for this wedding.

Escort Card display

Close up of the bride and grooms escort cards.

Favors were little jars filled with spices. How cute is that saying, Pinch Me...We're Married!

The menu cards were beautiful.

Photos from the past. The Andretti door makes a nice backdrop.

Centerpieces by the talented Floralisa.

Cake by Sweetie Pies.

CTW: 38

2008-07-02T08:06:00.000-07:00

I love these cuff bracelets by Heather Benjamin.

Anything printed on wood is always beautiful. These guys will do programs, placecards, the whole invitation suite etc.

These are great wine inspired placecards. They are reusable also.

Cake of the Week

2008-07-01T07:42:00.000-07:00

Love the colors and shape of this cake. Created by My Sweet & Saucy.

Photo by Amy Squires.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-06-27T08:11:00.000-07:00

I love mixing tall and short centerpieces. These are so lush and romantic. Of course the pintuck linens and chiavari chairs are too shabby either! Photos by Mike Kehr via the Brides Cafe.

Florals by Beautiful Blooms.

Congratulations C & J

2008-06-26T17:34:00.001-07:00

On 06.21.08 we traveled to the East Bay and boy was it hot. My rear view mirror actually melted off my car. Moving on. What a beautiful wedding. The ceremony took place at Santa Maria Catholic Church in Orinda and the reception was held at the Bridges Golf Club in San Ramon. Everything was top notch including but not limited to the linens and the flowers. And C & J have always been so nice and so gracious. You two make such a stunning couple and we were honored to be there for you on your special day.

Both tall and short centerpieces were used. The Flowerhouse provided the floral arrangements.

The favors were a CD made by C & J.

The head table.

Cake by Katrina Rozelle.

Guests enjoyed the "L" martini ice luge by Ice Illusions.

CTW: 37

2008-06-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

I have always loved the look of escort cards or pictures hung by clothes pins. These of course are not your average clothes pins.

One of my superstar brides sent me this. (Thank you G!!). What a great way to store your wedding gift cards. The bottom part can just be "cut off" if need be in order to make it stand better.

Looking for a special way to gift a bottle of wine or champagne. I love this.

For the non-traditional groom check out these tire track rings!

Congratulations C & P

2008-06-24T20:09:00.000-07:00

We were one of the many working on 06.07.08. We drove up to Paradise Ridge Winery in Santa Rosa to celebrate the union of C & P. They were of course great to work with and they had an amazingly beautiful wedding. We wish you both all the happiness in the world! And now for some pictures taken by my amazing partner and husband.

All florals by Stems.

Programs

Parasols for the guests.

Escort cards were attached to diy cork holders.

The head table.

Place setting.

Centerpieces.

Cake by Patisserie Angelica.

Hurricanes lined the stairs.

The Professional Photographer for this wedding was the amazing Celeste Dobbins.

Cake of the Week

2008-06-24T07:55:00.000-07:00

I love this bird inspired masterpiece.

Photo by Nicole Green.
Cake by Elegant Indulgences.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-06-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

I love that this simple arrangement is interesting and fresh.

Photo by HyStudio.

You Will Be Missed Tim Russert

2008-06-19T08:03:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know I am a political junkie. I have grown up watching Tim Russert. I stayed up many election nights with Tim waiting for him to make the "call". It is truly a devastating loss to all but especially his family. I only wish my future children could have grown up watching Tim do his thing.

In the words of Teddy Kennedy (in a eulogy to his nephew JFK Jr.) we only wish Tim would have "lived to comb gray hair.....he had every gift but length of years."

I can't wait to tell him my first hand account of Election Night 2008.......someday but not yet. We will miss you my friend.

CTW: 36

2008-06-18T08:19:00.000-07:00

I love these lip balm from Baby Bear Shop. Such a cute gift for your bridesmaids.

Talk about a stylish clutch. Just check out the full website. You will be amazed.

These cute tea canisters were the favors J & R used at their wedding on 05.31.08. Also very economical at a max of $1.95 each.

Congratulations J & R

2008-06-17T20:36:00.000-07:00

On 05.31.08 we headed to Wedgewood at Crystal Springs in Burlingame. The views here are spectacular! J & R are such a great couple and were so easy and great to work with. Congratulations to you both!

The reception took place at Ming's in Palo Alto. We met up with old friends BIG FUN DJ and made new friends: John Chen of Living Photography.

Cake of the Week

2008-06-17T08:24:00.001-07:00

The detail on this cake is beautiful.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-06-13T08:22:00.000-07:00

I love the simplicity of these white flowers. And I am in love with using house numbers as table numbers.

Photograph by Leigh Miller.

CTW: 35

2008-06-11T07:53:00.000-07:00

If you are not a DIY'er you can always buy reserved signs. These ones are classy and simple.

I am always on the look of for "different" lighting options. I love these pots.

What a great way to keep track of your cup. These would be great for a backyard bbq or a rehearsal dinner.

Cake of the Week

2008-06-10T07:48:00.001-07:00

So I was lucky enough to have I Dream of Cake as one of my wedding vendors. Her work is amazing.

This cake reminds me so much of Jen Skog's wedding and theme. Truly beautiful.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-06-06T07:55:00.000-07:00

If you have not seen the cover of the new Martha Stewart's Collectors Edition here it is. I love wrapping vases (in silk especially). And of course I love the custom chiavari chairs.

CTW: 34

2008-06-04T08:17:00.000-07:00

I love these rustic Italian coolers. Perfect to welcome your guests.

I know many venues that have a pool next to either the ceremony or reception sites. How about adding your monogram?

I love this woodgrained paper. Great for wrapping favors.

This walkway would be great to use on the sand to add some stability. Of course it depends on what type of shoes the bride/bridal party will be wearing.

Cake of the Week

2008-06-03T08:03:00.000-07:00

There is something to be said about the beauty of a simple but intricate white cake on a silver base.

Photograph from Studio 306

Alltop Nod

2008-06-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

I received an email notifying me that Bellissima Vita's Blog made it into Alltop's Wedding Section. A true honor as I hear it is quite difficult to be selected. We will not let you down Alltop.

For those of you unfamiliar with Alltop they list the best blogs in several different categories. Weddings is their new category. Check it out here.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-05-30T08:15:00.001-07:00

I love the black containers used for the low centerpieces. And of course I love the green and white flowers. Florals by Simply Blooms. Click on picture to see it full sized.

Photos by Ann Hamilton Photography

CTW: 33

2008-05-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

How cool is a scribed marriage certificate? They can make them on parchment, tile or wood.

And I love these cocktail napkins. I have seen them in green and brown (below) also.

You can also get matching escort/place cards.

Cake of the Week

2008-05-27T07:59:00.000-07:00

I love the simplicity and clean lines of this cake.

Jennifer Davis Photography via the Brides Cafe.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-05-23T08:22:00.001-07:00

I love the arrangements used as aisle decor. Similar arrangements were used as centerpieces during the reception.

Photos by David Turner via the Brides Cafe.

CTW: 32

2008-05-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

I love the idea of using this pebble walkway as an aisle runner!

Bright colors always seem to be in. These lanterns create a great atmosphere.

They also come in white.

Love tubs filled with beverages.

These tealight holders are very modern and chic.

Cake of the Week

2008-05-20T08:25:00.000-07:00

Photo by Brunk Photography

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-05-16T08:04:00.000-07:00

My favorite color palette: green and white. This really showcases the beauty of simply centerpieces.

All photos by Jennifer Davis Photography via the Brides Cafe.

CTW: 31

2008-05-14T07:58:00.000-07:00

These wood grained tags are way cool.

I also think these alphabet tags would be great even as decoration....

Love these too!

This cake screams bridal shower to me.

I love the idea of giving your guests individual cakes for dessert.

These are cute too.

Cake of the Week

2008-05-13T08:14:00.001-07:00

I love how this one is so fun and unique.

Cake by Gateaux. Photo by Studio 306.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-05-09T08:01:00.000-07:00

I am obsessed with the simplicity of branches.

Photo by Rebecca Bouck

CTW: 30

2008-05-07T07:59:00.000-07:00

Cupcakes are all the rage. While the cupcakes below are for a dinosaur themed birthday party this would be a great way to serve cupcakes to your guests. Imagine your waiters taking these around to each table and letting guests take the cupcake they want....

Tray is actually a candle holder but Shim and Sons showed us how to think outside the box. From Ikea.

Everyone always says you can't go wrong with an edible favor. If you are not into this idea how about a usable favor such as this beautiful rosewood wine opener. Check out other wedding favor wine openers here.

So I love this skull parasol. Different but very cool. It would look great with a white wedding dress with a black sash....

Cake of the Week

2008-05-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Have to love black and white....

Cake by Sweet Eats Confections

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-05-02T08:35:00.001-07:00

I love the hanging votives on this centerpiece.

From one of my new favorite photographers Brunk Photography.

CTW: 29

2008-04-30T08:35:00.000-07:00

I love these lanterns from Wisteria. They come in 3 different sizes.

For those with candles restrictions this is a good way to be able to use wine bottles as candle holders. No open flame.

I love that you can get a personalized wine bottle pepper mill. Put your new last name on it and the waiters at your sit down dinner reception can use it to pepper your guests food.

I have seen a few "school" themed weddings. These would look cute at such a wedding.

Cake of the Week

2008-04-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

A white cake can be so beautiful.

Paul Johnson Photography

Bellissima Vita and Sarah Drake Design Collaboration

2008-04-28T10:09:00.001-07:00

For those of you unfamiliar with the beautiful letterpress design of Sarah Drake I urge you to check out her site. She designed my wedding invites. I of course chose the Park Lane Invite (see picture below).

When she asked me to design a tablescape around the Park Lane invite to showcase her new line of couture wedding papers including place cards I jumped at this amazing opportunity. I turned to my friend and amazing photographer James from Photography by Lisa + James to memorialize this tablescape.

I was going for a crisp modern green and white theme to compliment Sarah's grass design. I wanted to use wheat grass but in a different way. The wheat grass acted as the place card holder.

I wanted each floral arrangement to match the slipcover I had made so I consulted with Karen from Huckleberry Karen Designs. I had to have the green and white parrot tulips and the ornamental kale. She did such a beautiful putting together these arrangements.

I made slipcovers for the vases in some of the most amazing green silks and crisp white Irish linens.

Stacey Shapiro did the calligraphy and I have to say it was by far the most beautiful calligraphy I have ever seen. Here are some more samples.

I was one of five wedding professionals to design a look for Sarah. Check out the other four at Sarah's blog.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-04-25T09:41:00.000-07:00

I love this fresh tablescape. This proves that simple can be really beautiful and stunning.

Both photos from Michael Norwood Photography

CTW: 28

2008-04-23T08:24:00.001-07:00

I love these etched wine vessels. These would be fun to incorporate into a tablescape.

My brides are always looking for cool things to put into gift bags for their guests or family members. How about these dish towels. The Napa Valley one even point out wineries such as V. Sattui and Chiarello just to name a few.

So I am a little obsessed with wedding pictures with umbrellas. I love this modern one. It also comes in black.

These are great totes for your bridesmaids or even yourself. The colors are very happy.

Cake of the Week

2008-04-22T10:49:00.000-07:00

Inspired by my girl 10-4 I bring you "Cake of the Week"

I love this masterpiece by I Dream of Cake.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-04-18T08:41:00.000-07:00

I love the use of unusual elements such as artichokes. Florals by Branch Out Floral and Event Design.

Photo by one of the most talented bay area wedding photographers Jen Skog. You must check out her new blog.

CTW: 27

2008-04-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

I love this modern take on a ring pillow.

I know a lot of us like the use of letters either on doors at the ceremony or reception. I really like the look of these.

Sometimes it is hard to create an aisle when you have a large area of only grass or sand. How about using something like these edgers.

So I did not have a flower girl. But if I had she could have worn this fabulous frock.

I bought some candle holders from Brocade Home for my "Birch" tablescape at our first bridal show. I also love these candelabras also by Brocade Home.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-04-11T08:09:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Florals by Simply Blooms.
Photo by Jose Villa via the Brides Cafe.

CTW: 26

2008-04-09T10:06:00.000-07:00

I love tags!

These ones are great.

I also love these bird themed ones.

And these French inspired ones are so Chi Chi

I think these brown and pink ones. Would make great escort cards with some beautiful calligraphy and the table name or number inside.

I love these wedding cookies.

So one of my clients is having a fabulous wedding in Sonoma. This venue has a great pool and these would look great floating in it.

Congratulations M & E

2008-04-08T08:07:00.000-07:00

Well what can I say about this wedding event but so much fun. I met M when I was planning my own wedding on the knot so pulling together all her details was so gratifying. I had heard and seen so much of her planning that it was a true honor to be able to DOC this event.

Another great treat was being able to work with the super talented Ed Pingol. Just check out his work below (click on collages to enlarge)....need I say more. Huckleberry Karen Designs did the florals and her work never disappoints.

To see more of these pictures click here.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-04-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

I think one of the questions I get asked the most is how to save money on floral centerpieces. I love this simple yet elegant design that has a lot of impact and only 3 calla stems.

From Flowers with Feeling

CTW: 25

2008-04-02T07:53:00.001-07:00

I love these interesting lanterns from Pottery Barn. And they fulfill the 2 inch flame restriction that SF has! Check them out in the setup below.

I also love these terracotta votives that don't fulfill the above mentioned requirement....

Love these Peep Candleholders.

And who can resist these recycled lanterns.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-03-28T08:04:00.000-07:00

If you want to go tall, go really tall. Make sure the bulk of the floral part of the centerpiece is above your guests eye level when sitting down. Also try to make sure that the vase itself is not too thick as it also may obstruct guests views.

I love this tall skinny centerpiece. The James Story orchids are beautiful.

Photo by Vallentyne Photography.

CTW: 24

2008-03-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

I am always looking for new types and colors of lanterns. I love these pastel ones. And pinks and greens are always great wedding colors.

And I am always drawn to black and white.

These great favor containers filled with jelly beans were put out empty as the containers used at a candy bar!

I love this adorable toile flower girl dress. The back is really too cute.

A Modern Butterfly Themed Wedding

2008-03-24T07:52:00.000-07:00

Butterflies aren't for everyone. The following ideas are what I would call a modern take on a butterfly theme.

I love the button mum pomanders with the butterfly accents. From Poppy's Petalworks.

Love these letterpress invites from Sarah Drake Design.

This cake picture is from theknot.

These would make great tags for favors.

And I love these embroidered napkins.

And to top everything off a custom designed stamp to match your invite!

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-03-21T07:58:00.000-07:00

I love the interesting textures of this low centerpiece. And of course I love the green hypericum berries.

Picture taken from theknot.

Florist: Wisteria Design Studio Ltd.

My Niche

2008-03-20T08:02:00.001-07:00

Lets be honest: I am obsessed with weddings. A good obsession but an obsession none the less.

I also believe that all brides, no matter their budget, deserve the opportunity to hire a DOC.

When I began my DOC search I had a budget in mind. It was quite hard for me to find a DOC in that price range especially here in the San Francisco Bay Area. I did (thank you Christine!) but nowadays my "magic number" is almost impossible to find.

Reasons why my prices are lower than most:

I don't support myself with the money I earn coordinating weddings. If I had to (and that is the plan someday) prices inevitably would have to go up.
As an attorney I can justify charging $250 per hour. As a wedding coordinator I simply cannot (at least not yet, see number 1)
I really love executing beautiful weddings. It does not feel like a job to me and the fact that I get paid to do this is only an added bonus.

For those on a budget my packages can be customized. To lower your costs you may want to think about hiring a DOC for your reception only (esp. if you already have say a church coordinator) or hiring a DOC for less hours overall.

CTW: 23

2008-03-19T07:57:00.000-07:00

I love these wood pencils. They would make great favors.

This ultra suede guestbook is super chic.

Ring pillows from Heart Paper Soul. Click on the button for more fabric and ribbon choices. The possibilities are endless.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-03-14T11:10:00.000-07:00

I like mixing up centerpieces with tall and short ones. I love the use of the fabric and buckle on the tall centerpiece.

Both photos by Nataly Lemus Photography.

CTW: 22

2008-03-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

For the groom who has everything....and they are green (my favorite color).

These couture cookies can be custom designed.

I love these black cuff bracelets. May not be your cup of tea but would look great with the dress pictured below.

Photo by Jessica Claire of equally talented Trista Lerit.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-03-07T07:17:00.000-08:00

This simple yet elegant and beautiful tablescape is one after my own heart. All pictures and florals from Wiggy Flowers (my florist!).

CTW: 21

2008-03-05T08:04:00.000-08:00

For some new readers CTW= Cool Things Wednesdays. CTW started back when I was a bride on the knot. I would post cool finds every Wednesday for my girls. Even though I have moved on from the knot CTW lives. Enjoy!

I am really loving the idea of having a cool umbrella on hand for pictures. If you don't have the budget to purchase one you can always rent. Check out Bella Umbrella. The prices can't be beat.

This umbrella rents for $30

This fun one for $10

This flirty one for $20

I am loving this monogram.

These are great votives.

Venue Spotlight: Calistoga Ranch

2008-03-03T11:22:00.000-08:00

This place really has it all. Several spaces to hold both your ceremony and reception (including an amazing wine cave), beautiful lodges to house you and your guests, a unique spa like feel, some of the best food you will ever taste, and a private vineyard.

This is why we chose to have our wedding here.

Max capacity is 84 and let's face it this place will cost you some $$$. But it is the Napa Valley and you won't be disappointed.

Your options:

Poolside Patio

Photography by Lisa + James

Lommel Lawn

Studio 7 via the Knot

Mel Barlow

LuLu Events

Lakehouse Patio

Studio 7 via the Knot

Mel Barlow

Photo via Here Comes the Guide

Mel Barlow

Mel Barlow

Wine Cave

Lori Paladino Photography

Photography by Lisa + James

Boutwell Studio

Mel Barlow

Michelle Walker Photography

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-02-29T08:15:00.000-08:00

You guys know how I love sticks....

Photo by Chung Photo.

CTW: Twenty

2008-02-27T07:57:00.000-08:00

Let's face it thanks to Sarah Drake Design and the Park Lane Invite I am obsessed with all things grass. Where was this umbrella on 07.07.07 one will never know....This umbrella would be a great prop for photos or a rainy day in San Francisco.

Love these wood candles from Pottery Barn. They are on sale too.

These personalized luggage tags would make great favors esp. for a travel themed wedding. At $2.99 quantities are limited.

I love these new guest books from Paper Source.

Congratulations E & J

2008-02-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

On 02.02.08 (our first wedding of 2008!) we traveled down south to the beautiful Pacific Athletic Club in Redwood City. I really enjoyed working with E & J. They were fun, organized, had great taste, and were very much in love. It was an honor to be a part of their wedding and I wish them many years of happiness.

Dressed table. Chiavari chairs are included in package with venue.

Daylight.

At night.

Tablescape

Florals provided by Orchid Floral

Escort Card table

The groom owns a favor company.

Cake by Bravo's Bakery

Photographer: Wendy Yalom

Videographer: Glenn Williams from Thomas Hughes

DJ: Hey Mr DJ
Lighting: Elle

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-02-22T08:25:00.000-08:00

Hi my name is Lisa and I am an orange addict (and a green addict). And I love the Pin Tuck linens.

Photo by Marisa Holmes Photography.

CTW: Nineteen

2008-02-20T07:47:00.000-08:00

I love these short wedding dress options!

From Nordstrom.

From BCBG at Nordstrom.

Cuff Bracelet From Nadri.

Cuff Bracelet from Nadri. This is the one I wore! You can see it in the bouquet picture.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-02-15T08:33:00.000-08:00

I love damask as evidenced from one of my first posts. I also love the fact that the centerpieces were not all the same.

All pictures from the talented Jessica Claire.

Close up of the base for centerpiece in picture 2.

CTW: Eighteen

2008-02-13T08:07:00.000-08:00

Why do I love headbands? These ones are so great. Both from Stacey Lapidus.

These are clutches from Shop Love Me.

The Black Ostrich Clutch.

The Perfect Clutch.

Double Stranded Fresh Water Pearl Bracelets.

The Birch Tablescape

2008-02-12T07:52:00.000-08:00

The birch tablescape was one of my favorites (although I loved them all). I am addicted to brown, green, white and orange as those were my wedding colors.

A enormous thank you to Ed Pingol Photography for all the images below.

Plates from NotNuetral.

Frames from Aaron Brothers.

Birch sleeve from Pottery Barn.

Brown Favor Boxes from Romantic Flowers.

White leaf plate from Michael Aram. (one of our wedding gifts!)

Menu cards and place cards designed by Cards de Luxe.

Owl placecard holders from West Elm.

Rentals including glassware, linens, chairs and silverware from Classic Party Rental.

The Grace Tablescape

2008-02-08T08:11:00.000-08:00

The grace tablescape was delicate and pretty. Simple white florals were provided by Huckleberry Karen Designs. BV Weddings designed the tablescape.

Photography by Lisa + James

Fabric for runner and favors from Britex.
Candle holders from CB2.
Menu/Place card frames from Aaron Brothers.
Photography by Lisa + James.

Close up of fabric covered favor.
Photo by Ed Pingol Photography.

Photography by Lisa + James.

Photo by Ed Pingol Photography.

Menu/place card design by Cards de Luxe.
Photo by Ed Pingol Photography.

The Swank Tablescape

2008-02-07T08:44:00.001-08:00

The swank table (affectionately renamed "Purple Rain" by Karen's husband) was bright, fun and trendy. Huckleberry Karen Designs created the fabulous florals. BV Weddings designed the tablescape.

Photography by Lisa + James.

Green plates from NotNuetral.

Pillow favor boxes from Target.

Napkins from Sur La Table.

Photography by Lisa + James.

Placecard created by Cards de Luxe.

Photos by Ed Pingol Photography.

Green vases from West Elm.

Photo by Ed Pingol.

Votives from Brocade Home.

Photo by Ed Pingol.

Photo from Ed Pingol.

Photo by Ed Pingol.

Photography by Lisa + James.

Photo by Ed Pingol.

My name change is official!

2008-02-07T08:02:00.000-08:00

In honor of that........

DIY (by me) soda escort cards with my new name.

Photography by Lisa + James.

The Vogue Tablescape

2008-02-06T10:05:00.001-08:00

The vogue table was very upscale and blinged out. Karen from Huckleberry Karen Designs provided the beautiful centerpieces. BV Weddings designed the table.

Sandblasted votives from Target.
Photography by Lisa + James.

Bling Tealight Lamps from Z Gallerie.

Photo by Ed Pingol.

Place card frames from Aaron Brothers.

Silver rimmed plates from Z Gallerie.

Napkin ring from Romantic Flowers.

Photo by Ed Pingol.

Bling votive cups from Z Gallerie.

Photo by Ed Pingol.

Menu card design by Cards de Luxe.

Photography by Lisa + James

Chair and linen rentals from Classic Party Rental.

Our first wedding show: The Vendors!

2008-02-05T09:17:00.000-08:00

First a big thank you to everyone who participated and all who braved the rain to come out and support us!

A second even bigger thank you to the so very talented Ed Pingol for taking the following shots.

{8} Studio AYT

Stinkerpants Designs

Cards de Luxe

Photograhpy by Lisa + James

Big Fun DJ

Precious Memories...Our Designer

Tomorrow I will start posting pics from each tablescape!!

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-02-01T07:53:00.000-08:00

Very zen and vibrant. I also like how low it is so guests view is not obstructed.

Photo by Aaron Delesie.

CTW: Seventeen

2008-01-30T07:14:00.000-08:00

Texture is such a nice addition to any decor. I love these banana mache votives. They come in natural, red/orange, and blue.

Dots are so fun. This ribbon is definitely fun.

The perfect wear for your pooch ring bearer.

You could easily DIY this favor by making your own labels, packaging and personalized sayings.

Centerpiece of the Week

2008-01-25T07:59:00.000-08:00

I know....not another non-centerpiece as Centerpiece of the Week. But a smaller version of these would look cool hanging from a candelabra centerpiece.

Photo by Evoke Photography.

CTW: Sixteen

2008-01-23T08:07:00.001-08:00

I think these head wraps are so beautiful and elegant.

From the Jennifer Behr 2007 collection.

Cootie Catchers evoke playfulness and would make great wedding favors.

Butterfly inspired candles holders from Wrapables.