An Inspiration Board for Bibliophiles

I must admit, I am a total bookworm, so this inspiration board from Flights of Fancy's blog has me hooked. Hopefully it will provide some ideas for my fellow bookworms out there!

-Holly

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Eye Candy

Here's a little eye candy for you, courtesy of the uber-talented Lane Hickenbottom of Lane Weddings. Let it also serve as a reminder that fireworks are fabulous any time of year - they don't need to be strictly reserved for July (unless the law says they do; we're not condoning a felony here)!

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Cool Colors

We're loving this color palette from The Inspired Bride! The cool tones would work especially well for a different take on a winter wedding.

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Things We Love!

Have one of NEweddingday.com's fantastic invitation specialists create a custom family tree or genealogy chart. Include a small version on the back of your program or feature a larger version beside your gift table at the reception. This idea works especially well if you're trying to create a vintage theme for your wedding.

     Chandelier Genealogy Chart by Mélangerie.

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French-inspired wedding

What is more romantic than a French-themed wedding? We're hard-pressed to think of anything...there are so many beautiful details you can include in a wedding with this theme.

Aside from the obvious (getting married at a chateau or serving champagne and wine), there is so much more you can do. You can set the tone from the very beginning with toile or lace invitations. For example, we love these lace invites from William Arthur, whose line is available at Diane's Stationery.

For a unique guest book idea, hire a "sidewalk artist" to sketch your guests and have your guests sign the drawings. Then have the sketches bound into a book for you and your groom.

Serve quiche, croissants, baguettes, and gourmet cheeses like Brie and Camembert for an appetizing array of h'ors doeuvres. Instead of wedding cake, serve crepes.

When it comes to attire, you can really make a statement. Dress your bridesmaids in tulle skirts for a cute (and trendy!) touch. Twist your hair into a chic chignon. And, of course, your dress can be the biggest statement of all. Details like a bustier, large gathered skirts, or lots of lace and tulle scream "French". This gown by Jim Hjelm (carried by Ellynne Bridal) is a gorgeous example of modern flair combined with French elements.

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Mixing up the Menu

Instead of opting for the standard chicken and potatoes, why not serve something unusual for your reception dinner? You can get your guests into the spirit of your wedding even more if the food goes beyond the norm.

For example, if you're hosting a rustic, outdoor event, consider having a BBQ buffet. Nothing needs to be off-limits--if you and your fiancé are open to a fun theme, the options are endless. Host a Mexican fiesta or a Hawaiian luau. Serve fish 'n chips, Chinese food, Cajun-style food, seafood, or fancy French dishes.

There's no need to feel pigeonholed. If you're concerned about guests liking the type of menu you've selected, opt for a buffet so there are several options for them. They're bound to find something they like. And your wedding reception will stand out in their memory for daring to challenge everyone's tastebuds.

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Think Romance

While the fundamental nature of weddings is romance, trends in past years have been more about edginess and creativity than soft lighting and mushy moments. However, it may be time to re-visit Julia Roberts' wedding in Steel Magnolias for inspiration, because romance is making a comeback.

If you're looking for ways to bring romance into your wedding, start with your own personal look. Flowing gowns with loads of lace are extremely popular right now. Opt for an ivory shade instead of traditional stark white to warm things up. Make your makeup soft and subtle, and choose loose, flowing waves for your hair. Tiaras and headpieces are also increasingly popular, so consider incorporating one into your hairstyle to really bring out your inner princess.

One of the best ways to get a sentimental look at your wedding is through flowers--the more, the better! Think of making a move back to traditional roses, daisies, or lilies in soft pastels. The returning trend of looser, cascading bouquets will also add a feminine touch.

Incorporate your favorite poem into your vows or the reading at your ceremony. Do a dove release after the ceremony instead of the typical rice or bubbles. Hire a band to play soft jazz music in the background during your reception. Display black-and-white photos of you and your fiancé at the reception for old-school charm.

The possibilities are endless. There's never another time in your life where sentimentality and "mushiness" will be so acceptable; why not enjoy it and embrace your inner girly-girl?

*The above look from designer Jim Hjelm captures the essence of romantic elegance.

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Who needs color?

When it comes to wedding colors, sometimes less is more--white is fast becoming a popular choice among brides. And why not? Being surrounded by white gives one the feeling of being in a heavenly, serene atmosphere...what better theme to have at a wedding? Naturally, most brides don't want their bridesmaids wearing white dresses, but consider white as one of your "colors" and you won't be disappointed.

Although you might be afraid a white bridal bouquet will blend in with your dress, it can actually help you stand out. Fill your ceremony and reception with gorgeous white orchids, lilies, gardenias, or roses for a breathtaking effect. Have your cake accented with cream or white flowers to catch your guests' eyes. Drape all the windows with sheer white curtains. If you're feeling really bold, dress your groom and his groomsmen in white tuxes.

We love this idea for any season, but think of how beautiful it could be for an outdoor event, or a snow-covered Christmas wedding...

*Photo courtesy of Melenbacker Photography

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